South Africa: SA hosts women economic assembly The second Women Economic Assembly (WECONA) is expected to bring together the private sector, including businesswomen, government and civil society to transform the economic landscape in South Africa. WECONA, which is held for the second time this year, will take place in Pretoria on 5 and 6 October 2022. The assembly will be held under the theme, Unlocking gender-responsive value chains for a resilient economy, with a focus on showcasing how the public and private sectors have implemented their commitment towards gender transformation in industry value chains. The theme of WECONA 2022 talks to South Africas economic recovery, which is at risk of becoming a futile exercise if women are deliberately excluded from participating in value chains in various sectors. The inaugural WECONA was launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 6 October 2021 during a hybrid event attended by businesswomen, government leaders and officials, private companies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders. The private sector, including civil society and womens organisations, businesswomen and government have partnered to form WECONA, an initiative to facilitate the participation of women-owned businesses in core areas of the economy. This initiative emphasises the participation of women-owned enterprises on the entire value chain to foster sustainable economic development. The WECONA platform is fast becoming the go-to platform for women economic empowerment through negotiating sector-specific preferential procurement targets, reviewing representation in management structures, and securing commitments from sectors that have fallen behind in meeting transformation targets. Speaking ahead of the meeting, Women Economic Assembly co-chairperson, Futhi Mtoba, said this years assembly builds on last years launch, which gave them the wind in their sails to go out and meet with various sectors in mapping the economic landscape of the country. We found a willingness to partner with us to transform value chain eco-systems to ensure a more equitable share of business in this country goes to women. The second assembly gives us the opportunity to present what has been achieved, and to bring in new voices and sectors to continue our goal of transforming the business landscape of this country, Mtoba said. WECONA co-chairperson, Namhla Mniki, said since the inaugural event last year, through WECONA, there have been transformational conversations with industry associations and representatives to establish procurement targets to ensure women-owned businesses have increased levels of participation within those value chains. Mniki said the dialogues have led to the implementation of game-changing initiatives in several sectors, including the financial industry and automotive sectors. In October 2021 when we launched, both public sector and industry leaders made commitments towards gender transformation. We are starting to see progress. Take Siphiwo for instance, who is in the process of opening a 100% women-owned car dealership or Akhona who, launched three car dealerships this year. Before 2021, not a single woman owned a car dealership in South Africa. We want to build on the successes of the past year and accelerate the pace of gender transformation, Mniki said. The assembly aligns with the outcomes of Pillar 5 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. Pillar 5 calls for the need to create more economic opportunities for women who are vulnerable to abuse due to poverty, unemployment and social inequality. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2022-10-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Vietnam reports additional 796 new Covid-19 cases on Monday An additional 796 new Covid-19 infections were confirmed on Monday, raising the national tally to over 11.48 million, according to the Ministry of Health. Illustrative photo According to the ministry's report, the national caseload has so far increased to 11,481,314. On October 3, an additional 270 more patients recovered from the disease, raising the number of recoveries in the country to nearly 10.59 million. On Monday evening, no deaths from Covid-19 were recorded, the country's total fatalities stayed at 43,149, accounting for 0.4 per cent of total infections. By October 3, the country had injected over 260 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines. The Ministry of Health has asked localities nationwide to vaccinate children aged between six months old to five years old against Covid-19. According to the ministry, to date, over 260 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine have been used for people aged from five years old. Around 60 percent of children aged between five to 12 years old have been given a second Covid-19 vaccine shot. The rate is as high as 75 percent for people aged 12 years old and above. Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer of reproductive health services of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, outside the Planned Parenthood health center in Fairview Heights in June. "Over the past 100 days, I've cared for people from across the country who traveled to southern Illinois for abortion care," she said. (Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune) Planned Parenthood is launching a mobile abortion unit in southern Illinois to help reach out-of-state patients and decrease wait times, as more states ban or severely restrict terminating a pregnancy. The abortion provider announced the project Monday, roughly 100 days after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the landmark 1973 case Roe v. Wade, which established the right to terminate a pregnancy nationwide. Since the June 24 reversal of federal reproductive rights protections, out-of-state abortions have surged in Illinois, where terminating a pregnancy is legal. Advertisement Over the past 100 days, Ive cared for people from across the country who traveled to southern Illinois for abortion care, said Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, which covers southern Illinois. These patients are navigating a politically designed obstacle course to access abortion and other basic health care. The mobile unit is expected to be operational by the end of 2022 and will be located at different points along the southern border of Illinois, though its specific route, times and locations have yet to be determined, Planned Parenthood officials said. It will initially offer only medication abortions but will eventually expand to include first-trimester aspiration abortions, the agency said. Advertisement The Planned Parenthood affiliate retrofitted a 37-foot recreational vehicle to create a patient experience similar to what one would experience when they are coming for a medication abortion at one of our health centers. The vehicle will include a standard lab, small waiting room, two exam rooms that further down the road can be converted to procedure rooms for surgical abortions. The recreational vehicle will only travel to locations in Illinois, not any states where abortion is outlawed or significantly restricted, agency officials said. But the ability to drive along the border closer to better access points for traveling patients, including those from Illinois is expected to decrease travel times and distances and free up space in bricks-and-mortar clinics, Planned Parenthood officials said. The mobile unit will also provide family planning services such as birth control and emergency contraceptive, as well as sexually-transmitted infection testing and screening, Planned Parenthood officials said. Services will be available to in-state and out-of-state residents. Pro-Life Action League Executive Director Eric Scheidler said he believes the mobile unit is Planned Parenthoods attempt to corner the interstate abortion market and muscle out the competition. Personally, Im horrified by the bloodthirstiness of this scheme: an RV driving around looking for unborn children to abort, he said. Abortion providers across Illinois have been planning for a massive influx in patients post-Roe, but many expressed shock at how quickly the number spiked after the ruling. The southern region of the state, which has only two abortion clinics, has been particularly hard hit. Wait times have skyrocketed from several days before the fall of Roe to two-and-a-half weeks, even with expanded clinic hours, Planned Parenthood officials said. This is what we mean when we say banning abortion does not eliminate the need for abortion care, said Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of the Planned Parenthood affiliate. At the Planned Parenthood Health Center in Fairview Heights, patients from states other than Missouri and Illinois increased by more than 340% after the fall of Roe; the rise in travel and wait times appears to be increasing gestation points as well, with abortions after 14 weeks in pregnancy increasing by more than 115%, agency officials said. Advertisement Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. > For the past 100 days and even longer in some places we have been living in two Americas: One where abortion is available and one where it is not, McNicholas said. This post-Roe reality was both predictable and preventable: Patient confusion, a politically designed patchwork of access across the country and health care systems not knowing how to navigate laws that are not based in science. The list goes on and on. There are about two dozen abortion clinics in Illinois, though most are in the Chicago area. Eleven of the 102 counties in Illinois have at least one abortion provider. In five of those counties, only medication abortions are offered, which are restricted to early pregnancy. New abortion providers are expected to come to Illinois soon, including a clinic in Carbondale thats scheduled to open this month, adding a third option to the southern part of the state. A Planned Parenthood of Illinois clinic in Champaign last month expanded its space and services to help handle the surge in patients. Over the past three months, roughly a dozen states across the country including Missouri have banned abortion in almost all cases, eliminating access for around 80 million Americans, according to the New-York based Center for Reproductive Rights; 50 clinics nationwide have either shut down or halted abortion services since the end of Roe. The last clinic in Missouri a Planned Parenthood in St. Louis announced that it would cease providing abortions June 24, when terminating a pregnancy became illegal in that state. One day, we will bring back abortion care to Missourians, Rodriguez said. Until then, we are committed to protecting and expanding care where and when we can. This is our act of defiance. Advertisement eleventis@chicagotribune.com Hundreds of Teamsters members in Massachusetts who work for a major distribution company that supplies food to restaurants, hospitals, and other businesses have gone on strike. More than 300 workers at Local 653, including truck drivers, walked off the job at Sysco Boston over the weekend. On Monday morning, workers were seen picketing at Sysco headquarters at 99 Spring Street in Plympton. The decision to strike came after management offered a last, best, final offer that would strip their essential workers of high-quality union health insurance and deny Local 653 members their union pension, according to Teamsters. ITS AN ALL-OUT WORKER REVOLT AT SYSCO! BOSTON WALKS OUT ON STRIKE!!!! Just now, at 12:01 a.m. ET, more than 300... Posted by Teamsters on Friday, September 30, 2022 We are currently striking Sysco over unfair labor practice charges and economics, pension, wages, health care, the whole bit, Trevor Ashley, a 20-year driver at Sysco Boston and member of Local 653, said in a statement. Weve been called essential workers for the longest time and now its just empty words. We are working under grueling conditions. Some of us are working 14, 15, 16 hours a day, six days a week. We deserve more, and we arent going to stop until we get it. Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, added, Workers around the country are rising up at Sysco to demand what they deserve. The Teamsters are done letting this company take advantage of its workers. Our members are essential, united, and fighting back. This is only the beginning. Hundreds of workers have also gone on strike at Sysco Syracuse and Sysco Arizona. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW By Krisztina Than and Gabriela Baczynska BUDAPEST/BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Hungary's parliament passed the first of a series of anti-corruption bills on Monday as Budapest seeks to avoid a loss of European Union funds at a time when its economy is headed into recession and the forint has plunged to record lows. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's ruling Fidesz party passed an amendment to the criminal code to set up a procedure concerning criminal offences related to the management of public property, allowing a judicial review in case an investigation is closed without indictment or a crime report is dismissed. Parliament passed the bill with 136 members voting yes, while seven voted against it and 14 abstained. The legislation is one of 17 commitments Orban's government made to the European Commission to stave off a suspension of billions of euros of EU money over breaches of democratic checks and balances including weak anti-corruption safeguards. For a full list of Budapest's commitments, please see: Facing surging energy costs and inflation, a record weak forint and a slowing economy, Orban, long at odds with the EU, now looks willing to fulfil demands to create institutions that would cut corruption risks. The EU will have until Nov. 19 to assess Hungary's actions and whether they curb the risk of misspending EU money. Otherwise, the bloc would be expected to approve cutting 7.5 billion euros ($7.36 billion) earmarked for Hungary, some 5% of its 2022 GDP estimate. EU Budget Commissioner Johannes Hahn told European lawmakers on Monday evening that the 17 steps would reassure the bloc if they were correctly legislated and put in place. "As simple as it sounds - money talks," Hahn said. "Now it's our role to take Hungary at its word and help the authorities implement this. Important dates for the implementation of these proposals are still to be determined." DEMOCRACY? Several EU lawmakers called on Hahn not to let Orban off the hook but scrutinise closely the reforms in Hungary, which the chamber has recently declared is no longer a full democracy but a "hybrid regime of electoral autocracy." Story continues Orban denies that Hungary - an ex-communist country of some 10 million people - is any more corrupt than others in the EU. Hungary had irregularities in nearly 4% of EU funds spending in 2015-2019, according to the bloc's anti-fraud body OLAF, by far the worst result among all the 27 EU countries. Reuters documented in 2018 how Orban channels EU development funds to his friends and family, a practice human rights organisations say has immensely enriched his inner circle and allowed the 59-year-old to entrench himself in power. In more than a decade in power, Orban tightened state control over media, courts, NGOs and academia, restricted the rights of women, gay people and migrants, and clashed increasingly with liberal Western Europe which sponsors EU handouts. A favourable decision on the funds later this year could ease pressure on the forint and Hungarian assets, which have sold off in past weeks as emerging markets were hammered due to the U.S. dollar's surge, with Hungary's vulnerabilities making its assets especially exposed to risk aversion. "We expect that by mid- to end-November Hungary will make progress towards ... a deal for the recovery funds," Bank of America said in a note on Monday. "The cash-strapped administration has no choice but to compromise with the EU." ($1 = 1.0185 euro) (Reporting by Krisztina Than in Budapest and Gabriela Baczynska in BrusselsEditing by Susan Fenton and Matthew Lewis) BERLIN (AP) The leaders of Hungary, Austria and Serbia met Monday in Budapest to find solutions on how to stem the increasing number of migrants arriving in Europe, among them many young men from India. The three leaders agreed to take joint action to control the new arrivals along the migration route that leads through Serbia. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer told reporters after the meeting that the joint action plan would include increased police cooperation along the borders as well as supporting Serbia when it comes to deporting migrants back to their home countries. "We will directly support Serbia to carry out repatriations and not only support technical know-how, but also do everything possible that is necessary, and financially support them, Nehammer said. The Austrian chancellor lauded Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's announcement that by the end of the year Serbia would align its visa policies with the European Union Serbia is an EU candidate country but not a member yet so that the visa-free regime with some non-EU countries is no longer used for migration purposes. We will thus prevent the situation when someone uses Serbia as a country of arrival but not because of their real needs but for illegal migration toward the west, Vucic said. Hungarian President Viktor Orban said with this meeting today, we mobilized a force to defend borders so we decrease the pressure on us and the EU," Serbias Tanjug news agency reported. Among the migrants recently detained in Austria who have applied for asylum to avoid immediate deportation, Indians accounted for the biggest group in September, according government data. Indians are not allowed to enter the EU without a visa but have taken advantage of being able to travel to Serbia which they can enter without a visa. From there, many are trying to reach Western European countries with the help of traffickers. Monday's meeting in the Hungarian capital came after announcements by the Czech Republic and Austria last week that they would launch temporary border controls at their crossings with Slovakia to stop migrants from entering. Story continues ___ Jovana Gec reported from Belgrade, Serbia. ___ Follow all AP stories on migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration ARCADIA, Florida Tia Lias thought she was doing a nice thing, driving her kids to get Chinese food the day after Hurricane Ian tore through their rural town 50 miles inland from the coast. She thought they'd appreciate a hot meal, a choice of foods. After all, they'd survived the catastrophic storm largely unscathed. Even their chickens were OK, although their coop flew away. But when the three crossed the low-lying bridge over the Peace River in their Kia Sorrento, they found the restaurant was without power, serving only a handful of dishes. They ordered crab wontons and pork spare ribs and turned toward their home, about 50 miles from Fort Myers. They didn't make it. We were only in town for 15 minutes. It came up that fast," Lias told USA TODAY. "It" were the floodwaters gushing down the Peace River. Normally winding in lazy loops along the west side of town, the river overflowed its banks Thursday, flooding as many as 2,000 homes and at least 100 RVs in which people were living, authorities said. The flooding driven by 20 inches of rain dropped by Ian blocked multiple roads in DeSoto County, turning some neighborhoods into islands. In addition to flooding homes, the waters engulfed a gas station and the Peace River Campground, where about 150 people lived year-round, officials said. THESE FLORIDIANS GATHERED FOR CHURCH IN FORT MYERS: They brought their Hurricane Ian survival stories. IAN, FIONA SHATTERED HOPES FOR A QUIET HURRICANE SEASON: What's next? The area typically gets about 51 inches of annual rainfall, meaning Ian dropped half a year's worth of precipitation in mere hours. Officials said despite the damage, they received no reports of serious injury or deaths. On Sunday, lingering and widespread power outages and poor cell service hampered evacuation efforts via airboats with the help of the Florida National Guard. Authorities were distributing water and ready-made meals to stranded people who didn't want to leave. Story continues Lias, on the other hand, sat on the town side of the flooding and struggled with what to do. Her mom was stuck at their house with water, food and gas supplies dwindling. She wanted Lias and her kids to come home, to ride things out together. An airboat captain evacuates people from flooded areas of DeSoto County, Florida, on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022, following the passage of Hurricane Ian. But Lias figured sticking closer to what services are still working made more sense. As of Sunday, the three of them had already slept three nights in their SUV. Her daughter Khloe celebrated her 9th birthday in the back seat, without presents they're waiting for her at home. "Nothing is normal. It makes you feel like your life is in shambles, but our whole county too," said Lias, sitting on the grass by the river, yellow caution tape fluttering above her head. "If it wasnt for me having some spare clothes in the car, wed have nothing. Local officials, the Florida National Guard and a growing army of volunteers are ferrying supplies to the isolated areas with small boats and swamp-tour airboats, and more volunteers handed out hot meals, baby supplies and other necessities to people who ordinarily live a five-minute drive from the store. Boats buzzed back and forth between the newly dubbed mainland and the island area to the west. DeSoto County has about 35,000 full-time residents, although the population swells in the winter with snowbirds escaping the northern U.S., and at harvest time with migrant workers picking oranges, watermelons and squash. AFTER HURRICANE IAN CAME THE FLOODS: These people rallied to rescue residents, horses, cows THERE ARE 'NO EASY FIXES' IN FLORIDA: But could Hurricane Ian's havoc bring a call for better planning? Its a blessing that people can help in this time because these times are tough," said Lizbeth Manriques, 20, as she helped her younger brother juggle several pieces of bread and a Styrofoam container of rice and beans. Authorities said they are prepared to evacuate anyone who wanted to leave, but acknowledged the speed at which the floodwaters rose caught them off-guard. "We know about hurricanes but flooding is a new thing for us," said DeSoto County Commissioner J.C. Deriso. "The storm, our community was pretty well prepared for. But the flood was pretty unexpected. Rivers rise and fall every year. But what we saw was once in a lifetime. At least we hope so." Deriso said the relatively lesser wind damage from Ian may have lulled some people into a false sense a security. That's what happened to Melanie George and their family, who boated to dry land Sunday afternoon to pick up a generator and food. The storm went by and you could still travel," said George, 55, clutching plastic bags of food and drinks. "And then all the water came. Signaling how bad the damage is, Gov. Ron DeSantis visited Arcadia on Sunday afternoon after touring damage in coastal areas. Like Deriso, the governor said rescuers will continue working as long as needed but that it's up to Mother Nature to drop the water levels before a true recovery can begin. "This is such a big storm, brought so much water that you're having basically what's been a 500-year flood event here in DeSoto County and in some of the neighboring counties," DeSantis told reporters. "At the end of the day, the waters need to recede more. It's making it difficult for folks. We understand that." 'WE GET IT LAST': After Hurricane Ian hits Fort Myers, Black neighborhood residents say they arent counting on much help Sitting on the curb near the river, Lias said she was glad DeSantis took the time to visit her hometown. Her parents have lived in DeSoto County for about 20 years, and she bought property about 14 years ago, leaving behind the noise of Fort Myers for the peace of the country, where she could raise her kids. She worried aloud about how much school they were missing after getting back on track after COVID-19 and fretted about having enough money to buy more food and gas. But most of all, she worried about what to do next: Try to get back home to stay with her mom? Boat home and force her mom to leave? Or just stay on the shore and sleep again in the car. As she talked, Khloe interrupted to remind everyone about her birthday and voted to go home so she could open her presents. We cant control Mother Nature," Lias said. As much as you want things to be the same again, you know theyll never be the same. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: This Florida county was ready for Hurricane Ian but not the flooding A state program intended to deliver equitable funding for Illinois school districts in low-income communities was lambasted by critics who are asking lawmakers in Springfield for more than $1 billion a year to meet the new laws 2027 deadline to fully fund public education According to a recent report from the Partnership for Equity and Education Rights Illinois and the Education Law Center, despite five years of using the states new Evidence-Based Funding formula, 1.7 million students from 83% of Illinois school districts still attend underfunded schools. The new statewide education justice coalition, PEER IL, was created to ensure the state is fulfilling its promise to provide Illinois public school students fully funded and fully resourced public schools, PEER IL officials said. When then-Gov. Bruce Rauner signed Evidence-Based Funding into law in 2017, the legislation aimed to comprehensively overhaul the states school financing system, PEER IL officials said. According to the report, reaching the adequacy benchmarks put forth in the law requires more than $7 billion additional dollars in state funding to properly fund school districts in the state, with a goal of reaching full funding by 2027. By providing only the minimum required funding each year and no new funding in 2021 the state has underfunded EBF by $7.2 billion, PEER IL officials said. As one of the lowest-ranked public school systems in the nation, it is imperative that Illinois invest significantly more in the EBF formula now to prevent decades more of poorly resourced students in inadequately funded school districts throughout the state, said Naoma Nagahawatte, a Chicago Public Schools parent and a member of Raise Your Hand for Illinois Public Education. PEER (IL) believes all public school students in Illinois, no matter their race, family income or neighborhood, should receive an excellent, fully funded education, Nagahawatte said. Illinois families cannot wait any longer. Story continues According to the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability and the formulas adequacy calculations, the Vandalia Community School District should have received $21,500 from the state over the last five years for a Vandalia Community School kindergartner entering school in 2017, PEER IL officials said in a statement. At the current rate of funding from EBF, this same Vandalia student will be 28 years old before her school district begins to receive 90% of the promised funding in state and local dollars needed to provide Illinois public school students with an adequate education, PEER IL officials said. A spokeswoman for the Illinois State Board of Education said the state board is incredibly appreciative of Governor (J.B.) Pritzkers historic increases to public education funding. Since Evidence-Based Funding was enacted, schools have received more than $2 billion in increased funding, dramatically reducing the number of school districts funded at less than 60% of adequacy from 168 in 2018 to just two for the 2023 fiscal year, ISBE spokeswoman Jackie Matthews said in a statement. Although some have questioned why funding remained flat in 2021, Matthews said school districts received an additional $354 million that year in federal pandemic relief funds, which were distributed to districts using the EBF tier distribution formula. The Evidence-Based Funding formula is working, she said. While we have a ways to go before all school districts are fully funded, we have made extraordinary progress in just six years. Illinois lawmakers will enact a state budget that balances many different spending priorities, Matthews said. She added that the state board encourages anyone with a stake in public education to share their perspective on state funding. With ISBE currently conducting its annual call for funding requests to inform the boards public education spending recommendation for next year, Matthews said educators, parents and other community members can participate by submitting a funding request online and attending a budget hearing. Tony Sanders, superintendent of Elgin-based School District Unit 46, said that after the EBF law passed, the district has realized an increase of $78 million in state funding through the formula since 2018. The results to date have been transformational for our district, and had the formula not changed prior to the pandemic, we would have struggled significantly to serve students, said Sanders, who was among the Illinois educators advocating for the change in the states funding model. Although the state committed to an increase of at least $300 million per year when the law passed, Sanders said funding remained flat in 2021. The faster we can get districts that are below their adequacy target to the levels necessary to serve their students, the better, Sanders said. U-46 remains the furthest from adequacy among all the large unit districts in the state, Sanders said. Under the EBF model, each district in Illinois has an adequacy target for what the state says the district should spend to meet the needs of its students, Sanders said. That amount is calculated using funding factors such as low-income rates, students with specialized needs, students who are English language learners and other criteria. In the annual Illinois Report Card, which this year will be released in late October, the state indicates what it considers a districts adequacy target, as well as how close that district is to being adequately funded. U-46 is a Tier 1 school district because we are so far from our adequacy target, spending about 63% of what would be considered adequate, Sanders said. According to the Illinois Report Card for the 2021-22 school year, 57% of the 36,000 students enrolled in U-46 were from low-income families, and 37% were English language learners. At Chicago Public Schools, 78% of the 339,000 students who were enrolled during the 2021-22 school year were from low-income families, and 20% were English language learners, according to the report card. Chicago Public Schools aims to provide students with a safe, high-quality and equitable education, a CPS spokesman said. CPS has been working to distribute Evidence-Based Funds thoughtfully and strategically. CPS is funded at 74% of adequacy, an annual $1.4 billion shortfall, CPS officials said. kcullotta@chicagotribune.com People are working on picking up the pieces as Hurricane Ian left a trail of destruction from Florida to North Carolina. As first responders reach the hardest hit areas, the death toll continues to climb. The economic cost of Hurricane Ian could easily put the hurricane on the list of the top 10 costliest U.S. storms. The hardest hit area was in Florida, where Hurricane Ian made landfall Wednesday afternoon near Cayo Costa, Florida, as a catastrophic Category 4 storm with winds of 150 mph. Those winds pushed massive amounts of water onshore from the Gulf of Mexico, flooding homes and washing away roads and bridges needed to access beachfront locations. More than 2.5 million Floridians were left without power as the storm rolled through the state. Hurricane Ian tossed boats around like toys at a marina on the shores of Fort Myers. "The docks started weaving and then they started separating, and boats were tied to the docks, they didnt separate from the docks, and they all started to just piling up like Tinkertoys," Fort Myers resident Bob Benham said. "It was pretty amazing." A man takes photos of boats damaged by Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers, Florida, on September 29, 2022. Several well-known landmarks, including the Fort Myers Pier, Captiva Island and Sanibel Island Causeway fell victim to Ian's deadly storm surge. Hurricane Ian left destruction scars that would be seen from space. A popular beachfront restaurant, the Salty Crab, was blasted with winds over 100 mph, and storm surge left the establishment destroyed. "Not only is our restaurant completely totaled, but we have employees that lost everything," says Julia Cassino with the Salty Crab Bar and Grill in Fort Myers. And while others came back to their homes to see the same destruction, many know that it'll be years before they can get back to normal. In its first landfall, Ian hit the town of La Coloma in the Pinar del Rio Province of Cuba at 4:30 a.m. Eastern time on Tuesday. The maximum sustained winds of the Category 3 hurricane at landfall were estimated to be 125 mph. Story continues After leaving a trail of destruction and causing an island-wide blackout, Hurricane Ian made its way into the warm Gulf of Mexico waters, where it continued strengthening. On Wednesday, Hurricane Ian pummeled Southwest Florida after making two catastrophic landfills. Ian was a monstrous Category 4 hurricane storm with 150-mph winds when it first came ashore on Cayo Costa, Florida, about 3 p.m. Wednesday. About 90 minutes later, the hurricane made a second Florida landfall, just south of Punta Gorda, with 145-mph winds. The storm continued to trek through the Florida Peninsula, bringing flooding rains to Orlando and other parts of the Sunshine State. The storm left more than 2.5 million customers without power. After downgrading to a tropical storm in Northeast Florida, Ian spun its way into the Atlantic with its eyes set on the Carolina coast. On Thursday, Ian regained hurricane strength and brought life-threatening storm surge to South Carolina. With its last U.S. landfall, Ian arrived in South Carolina as a Category 1 hurricane with 85-mph winds and a central pressure of 977 millibars. A new study suggests the number of Chinese researchers relocating to China from the United States is increasing despite the end of the controversial China Initiative earlier this year. The Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) published a report titled Caught in the Crossfire: Fears of Chinese-American Scientists on Sept. 3. In its study, the association presented the results of its national academic climate survey, showing that the number of Chinese researchers leaving the U.S. has grown since the U.S. Department of Justice launched its China Initiative in 2018. There has been a significant increase of Chinese-origin scientists returning to China in recent years despite them wanting to contribute to science and research in the United States, Xihong Lin, AASF board member and co-chair of the associations Data and Research Committee, said. More from NextShark: K-Pop Fans Demolish Republican Congresswoman's Attempt to #ImpeachBidenNow on Twitter The fear among Chinese-origin scientists is palpable and the U.S. runs a high risk of losing talent, Lin continued. We want to use our research to raise awareness of these concerns and continue the long history of the U.S. benefiting from attracting and retaining the best and brightest scientists and engineers from around the world. In collaboration with 11 Asian American organizations, AASF surveyed over 1,300 Chinese-born faculty members across the country between December 2021 and March 2022. Around 89% of respondents said they would like to contribute to the U.S. leadership in science and technology. However, of the survey's more than 1,300 respondents, around 61% said they feel pressured to leave the country. Around 47% of them said they would like to relocate to Asia, while 46% of them mentioned relocating to non-Asian countries. More from NextShark: China says US support for Taiwan futile after Washington delegates visit Taipei amid Ukraine crisis The study also revealed the uneasiness Chinese researchers felt: 72% said they do not feel safe as an academic researcher, 42% said they are "fearful of conducting research" in the U.S. and 65% are "worried about collaborations with China." Story continues The report linked the growing exodus of Chinese researchers to the China Initiative, a security program launched in 2018 under the Trump administration. Although the program was stopped earlier this year in February by the Biden administration, many researchers have still decided to leave the U.S. It is clear from our research that the impact of the chilling effect from the China Initiative is far from over, Yu Xie, co-chair of AASFs Data and Research Committee, said. We must address the fears of scientists of Asian origin so that we can make the academic environment welcoming and continue the global competitiveness and U.S. leadership in science and technology for future generations to come. More from NextShark: Asian American Celebrities Reveal Why They Are #UnapologeticallyAsian In the report, one respondent explained that the country's anti-Chinese atmosphere drove him to quit his academic position. What I have experienced at my former institution was not only disgusting, but a system corruption that I believe [is] illegal, the respondent, a self-described U.S. citizen and a former recipient of the National Science Foundation CAREER Award, said. I had never thought of somewhere in this county to be dark and corrupted like this. If I had, I would not have become a naturalized U.S. citizen, which I regret now. What I experienced not [only] ruined my academic career, but also destroyed my American dream. More from NextShark: Japanese City Now Uses Robot 'Monster Wolves' to Keep Bears Away Some scholars think that there are other factors to consider besides the China Initiative that could be causing the exodus of Chinese researchers, including the closure of several Confucius Institutes across the U.S. I have a problem with the attempts, largely by innuendo, to link Chinese movements back to the mainland to the China Initiative, Robert Heineman, a retired political science professor at Alfred University in New York, said. The number of graduate students coming to the U.S. from China has also reportedly dropped significantly. The Council of Graduate Schools reported that from fall 2020 to fall 2021, the number of applicants from China dropped by 16%, while graduate program applicants from India rose by 36%. Featured Image via Raw Pixel NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Iranian airliner Mahan Air's Tehran to Guangzhou flight arrived safely and on time at its Chinese destination, Iran's semi-official ISNA news agency said on Monday, after a report of a bomb scare onboard. India's air force (IAF) said it had scrambled fighter jets after receiving information of a bomb scare on an airline bearing Iranian registration passing through Indian airspace. The air force said it later received information from Iran's capital Tehran to disregard the bomb scare and the flight continued its journey. "Our Airbus 340 passenger plane was travelling from Tehran to Guangzhou in China, and as soon as the pilot learned about the possibility of an in-flight bomb, he informed relevant authorities. The Mahan operation control centre discerned that the threat was fabricated and the flight continued its journey in full safety," Mahan Air said in a statement. "It seems that reports of a bomb onboard the plane during current international and domestic conditions were aimed at disrupting security and peace of mind," the statement added. Following the death in police custody of a young woman who was arrested for failing to follow the Islamic Republic's strict dress code, Iran has seen nationwide anti-government protests over the last three weeks. The Indian jets followed the Iranian aircraft at a safe distance and the plane was offered the option to land at two airports in north-western India. "However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports," the IAF said in a statement. Data from FlightRadar24 showed Mahan Air flight W581 from Tehran to Guangzhou flying in circles a handful of times above northern India, west of New Delhi, before continuing across the country and into Myanmar. An Indian Air Force spokesman did not confirm the number of the flight for which fighter jets were scrambled. (Reporting by Tanvi Mehta and Devjyot Ghoshal; editing by Philippa Fletcher and Ed Osmond) By Ananda Teresia JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia's fifth-largest political party NasDem on Monday announced that it is backing outgoing Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan as its candidate for the 2024 presidential election. Anies has consistently ranked among the top three possible contenders to lead the world's third-largest democracy, according to opinion polls, alongside Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo and Defence Minister and ex-special forces general, Prabowo Subianto. Nasdem Chairman Surya Paloh said he had spent months deliberating on the party's preferred candidate and ultimately decided that Anies was the best choice. Anies accepted the endorsement and said he was ready to "walk together" with the party, which in the 2019 parliamentary election won about 9% of the national vote. At the time NasDem did not pass the required threshold to put forward a candidate alone, meaning it will have to form a coalition with other parties to formally nominate a candidate for 2024. Presidential candidates are not required to officially register with the country's election body until October next year. But with incumbent President Joko Widodo constitutionally barred from seeking a third term, intense jockeying is getting underway over who will next lead the world's fourth most-populous country. Elected as Jakarta governor in 2017, Anies faced criticism at the time for his perceived closeness to hardline Islamic groups. Mass rallies held by those groups catalysed the downfall of Anies' political rival and then-governor, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, or "Ahok," an ethnic Chinese, Christian politician who was later imprisoned on blasphemy charges for insulting Islam. (Reporting by Ananda Teresia; Writing by Kate Lamb; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor) Graves are seen in the American Cemetery in Cairo. / Credit: Courtesy of Jean Isteero Cairo Nestled among several other cemeteries in Old Cairo, sits the only American Cemetery in Egypt's ancient capital. The plots were neglected for years, overgrown and at risk of falling apart, until a small group of "friends" set to work to save it. The Reverend Andrew Watson, an American missionary, asked Egypt's ruler in 1874 for a piece of desert land in Old Cairo for an American cemetery, where the dead of any nationality and any religion could be interred. His request was approved the following year, and he described the cemetery in his book, The American Mission in Egypt, published in 1904. "Trees have been planted which give grateful shade from the burning sun, and some other improvements have also been made to make the place appear less desolate looking," wrote Watson. He was buried there himself in 1916. A row of badly damaged graves is seen in the American Cemetery in Cairo in 2011. / Credit: Courtesy of Greg Olson There are still trees, and the sun still bakes the ground under them, but in recent years the place had started looking rather desolate. In the late 1960s, when American missionaries and many other foreigners were forced out of Egypt due to domestic political changes, the cemetery was turned over to the Evangelical Church of Egypt, which remains responsible for maintaining it today. But upkeep has been lacking. The cemetery fell into such disrepair that the U.S. Embassy in Cairo started advising American citizens to bury their loved ones in the nearby British cemetery. Like the German and Swiss cemeteries, which are also nearby, the British site is extremely tidy. A caretaker there ushered CBS News to "the Americans" at the site. Some of the headstones were as recent as this year. The caretaker explained proudly that the Americans chose his cemetery because their own, "is no good, and too small." The cemetery finds some friends In 2011, retired missionary teacher Jean Isteero went to visit the grave of a friend who had died that year in Cairo. The state of the cemetery upset her, so she decided to do something about it. Story continues "I contacted some of the families and started raising some funds to get it cleaned and renovated," she told CBS News. She started a small group called the "Friends of the American Cemetery." Jean left Egypt for good earlier this year after spending most of the past six decades in the country. But she's kept her work up from her new home in Baltimore. "I am very persistent," she said. "I believe that individuals who devoted so many years of their lives for the good of the church and country should be buried in a lovely, peaceful setting which their relatives will be proud to visit." Jean acknowledged that "some people are not interested in cemeteries," but she found at least one other soul who shares her passion. The Friends of the American Cemetery gather for a meeting in Cairo. From left to right: Anne Shalaby, Diana Van Bogaert, Jean Isteero, Nazli Rizk and Greg Olson. / Credit: Handout "The cemetery and the stories of the people buried there are a reflection of the involvement of Americans in Egypt over the past 150 years," said Greg Olson, a retired international development specialist. Mapping the past Originally from Wisconsin, Olson has lived in Egypt for most of the last 45 years. He was recruited by Jean, who first asked him for help with translations, and then to look up some information on the people buried at the American Cemetery. He quickly became a devoted member of the "friends" group. Olson has been working to build a digital map of the cemetery, which he hopes will eventually enable anyone to easily search for a name, locate the person's burial plot and learn about them. He's photographed every single headstone, and started tracking down everything he can on the people beneath them. So far he's managed to compile short biographies on about half of the people buried there. "I found a map of the cemetery made in 1925, and it shows who's buried where, but I didn't know anything about the ones after that," said Olson. "Then I found a list of all the people buried there through 1965, and now I am adding to that list." Some graves at the American Cemetery in Cairo are so badly damaged that it has been impossible to determine whose remains they hold. / Credit: CBS News/Ahmad Shawkat There are still about ten graves whose inhabitants remain a complete mystery, but Olson is determined to finish his map. Already his work has granted him a unique glimpse at some of the ancient city's more recent past. Pieces in a puzzle He noticed, for instance, that there are five Norwegians buried in the cemetery with the same date of death in 1959. That presented an alluring mystery, so Olson started digging. "I searched the newspapers around that date. Didn't find anything. I contacted the Norwegian Embassy, they didn't know. I asked the oldest Norwegian in Egypt, she had no idea. I contacted a friend in Oslo, he had access to the archive of a leading daily newspaper, and he found the story," Olson recounted. "They were seamen waiting in a convoy to go through the Suez Canal and they bought, illegally, some homemade alcohol from the locals, and were poisoned." The graves of five Norwegian seamen, all of whom died on the same date in 1959, are seen in the American Cemetery in Cairo, Egypt. / Credit: CBS News/Ahmad Shawkat Mystery solved, and as an unexpected bonus, a genealogy website showed Olson that he had a familial link with one of the sailors, and he managed to get in touch with the man's niece to share the news. Behind every name on a gravestone at the cemetery, there's a story about how the person ended up there, far from home. As he led CBS News past the graves, Olson's passion for uncovering those stories was clear to see. "For a long time, that guy was a mystery to me," Olson said, indicating a grave. "It turned out he was using a pseudonym. He was an anti-Vietnam war activist." "This is Susie, she was a young girl who climbed the pyramids with some Marine soldiers and fell off and died on a Thursday evening in 1980," he said in front of another grave. "I remember the news, I was in Cairo. Her family came to visit recently." Greg Olson speaks with CBS News as he walks among the graves in the American Cemetery in Cairo. / Credit: CBS News/Ahmad Shawkat He points at another: "See the snakes on the grave? He was a herpetologist." "She was a nurse who helped saving a lot of Armenian orphans from the genocide." "This is George Reisner, a very famous archaeologist, anybody who's an Egyptologist, they want to see his grave," said Olson. To Olson, the individual graves are like puzzle pieces, and he wants to put them all together. One headstone tells the story of one person, notes Olson, but all the headstones together will give a history of Americans in Egypt. New "friends" needed Isteero and Olson are hopeful that the U.S. Embassy and the American University in Cairo (AUC) will pitch in to help maintain, and even improve the cemetery going forward. Headstones are seen inside a crypt in the American Cemetery in Old Cairo. / Credit: CBS News/Ahmad Shawkat Olson has given both the former U.S. Ambassador to Egypt and the president of the AUC personal tours of the site, hoping to get them involved. He's worried that without some outside support, the efforts of the six-member friends group won't be sustainable. So far, the cemetery hasn't won commitments from any new friends. In his book more than a century ago, the Reverend Watson quoted an Egyptian saying: "To honor the dead, bury them." Olson doesn't buy into the finality of that, however. "To honor the dead, tell their stories, and keep their memories alive," he told CBS News. NFL Week 4: Doctor who cleared Tua Tagovailoa fired, Chiefs get revenge in Super Bowl rematch 7 Americans freed in Venezuela prisoner swap Ukraine retakes key logistics city and pushes Russian forces back Former Chicago police Sgt. Ronald Watts, right, leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse after getting sentenced to 22 months in prison on Oct. 9, 2013. (Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune) A Cook County judge on Monday threw out convictions for eight people whose cases were related to former Chicago police Sgt. Ronald Watts and his crew. Judge Erica Reddick vacated the convictions and sentences for the men in response to jointly filed motions by their lawyers and the Cook County states attorneys office. Prosecutors then dismissed the charges. Advertisement The convictions are among more than 200 thrown out in connection to the disgraced police sergeant, who has been accused of systematically framing people at the former Ida B. Wells public housing complex on the South Side. Watts and a team of tactical officers falsified cases against people who refused to pay a protection tax. In April, Reddick threw out 44 convictions related to Watts after prosecutors changed course and agreed that they should be vacated. Advertisement Watts was charged in 2012 with shaking down a drug courier who turned out to be an FBI agent and was sentenced to 22 months in prison. Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. > Mondays group included four gun-related cases, marking the first such cases related to Watts thrown out in years, lawyers for the men said. Only one previous gun case was tossed. We have long said that Watts and his team were involved in planting guns as well as drugs, said attorney Joshua Tepfer, who represented seven of the eight people. The petitions from the men whose cases were thrown out detail incidents of Watts of his crew planting drugs or guns and sometimes beating the men. In one case, the petition included a police report with a mug shot of a 19-year-old arrested on drug and gun charges showing a black eye and a bruised face. Were really happy for those guys, Tepfer said. Theyve been waiting a long time. Attorneys who have been handling the cases say they are nearing the end of their review of criminal cases, though they will keep taking cases that emerge. That leaves a raft of civil litigation that the attorneys say the city continues to fight. The city of Chicago makes a lot of noise about trying to be an inclusive city, but yet it defends these officers that ran roughshod over this community of people for a long time, said Sean Starr, a lawyer for some of the men. mabuckley@chicagotribune.com The 2023 Met Gala theme is "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty" to honor the late designer. Lagerfeld held several industry titles, including creative director for Chanel and Fendi. He died in February 2019. He was 85 years old and had a reported net worth of $200 million. Karl Lagerfeld is widely regarded as one of the most iconic people in the fashion industry. Karl Lagerfeld on the runway. Francois Mori / AP Images Source: Harper's Bazaar, The New York Times He was born Karl Otto Lagerfeldt in 1933 to a businessman and a lingerie saleswoman in Hamburg, Germany. Lagerfeld in 1985 at Rome's National Galley of Modern Art. Massimo Sambucetti/AP Images Source: Morningstar, Biography He has reportedly claimed to have been born in 1935. Lagerfeld in 1984 in front of sketches of his fall/winter haute couture collection for Chanel. John van Hasselt - Corbis/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Morningstar, NPR For years, the designer would play coy about his true age. His assistant told the Associated Press in 2019 that he preferred "to scramble the tracks on his year of birth that's part of the character." Carla Fendi (left), Lagerfeld (center), and Maxwell Rabb, U.S. Ambassador to Rome, (right) in 1985. Massimo Sambucetti/AP Images Source: Premium, Associated Press, NPR When Lagerfeld was a child, his parents moved the family to a northern rural part of Germany to avoid the rising tide of Nazism. Lagerfeld at the 2008 Met Gala. Evan Agostini/AP Images Source: Biography Lagerfeld possessed an interest in fashion at an early age, and his parents were largely supportive of his dream. His signature look often included driving gloves. Charles Sykes/Invision/AP Images Source: Biography He ultimately secured his parents' permission to move to Paris at the age of 14. Lagerfeld (left) and Kate Bosworth (right) attend the opening party for "Mobile Art CHANEL" in 2008. Evan Agostini/AP Images Source: Biography At the age of 21, he took first prize in a fashion contest for designing the best coat. Lagerfeld (left) and a model in his design (right) after winning the coats category in a design competition sponsored by the International Wool Secretariat in Paris in 1954. Keystone/Stringer/Getty Images Source: Biography, Harper's Bazaar Lagerfeld befriended fellow up-and-coming designer and contest winner Yves Saint Laurent. Yves Saint Laurent in his Paris atelier in 1958. AP Photo Source: Biography His career took off when he landed a junior assistant position with Pierre Balmain in 1955 ... Pictured above is French designer Pierre Balmain. Reg Lancaster/Stringer/Getty Images Source: Harper's Bazaar ... and then a designing gig with Jean Patou. Pictured above is a young Karl Lagerfeld working for Jean Patou in 1958. Keystone-France/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Biography, Harper's Bazaar He worked with Patou for five years before temporarily trading a career in couture for one in ready-to-wear. Lagerfeld in his studio in 1987. Pierre Guillaud/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Biography, Harper's Bazaar, The New York Times He bounced around transforming labels all over the industry through freelance jobs. Chloe was one that stuck in 1964 he was there for more than 10 years. Story continues Pictured above is Lagerfeld working with his designs at the Chloe studio in Paris. Pierre Vauthey/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Biography, Harper's Bazaar, The New York Times A job at Fendi followed soon after the company brought him in to revamp its "boring" brand while he was still working at Chloe. Pictured above is Lagerfeld with the five Fendi sisters. From left to right: In the front row is Carla, Karl, and Alda. In the second row is Franca, Anna, and Paola. Vittoriano Rastelli/Contributor/Getty Images Source: The New York Times Through his approach of shaving, coloring, and transforming furs, he introduced the concept of "Fun Fur" which is reportedly where the iconic double-F Fendi logo got its start to high fashion. Lagerfeld accepting applause after a 2015 Fendi runway show in Paris. Venturelli/Contributor/Getty Images Source: The New York Times In 1982, Lagerfeld said goodbye to Chloe and in 1983 hello to the house of Chanel. Cara Delevingne (left) and Lagerfeld (right) after a 2014 Chanel show in Paris. Jacques Brinon/AP Images Source: Harper's Bazaar, The New York Times His first show with the house was in 1984. Lagerfeld on the steps of the Paris Opera surrounded by models who walked in his 1984 Chanel show. Pierre Guillaud/AFP via Getty Images Source: Harper's Bazaar He can be credited with the revival of the iconic fashion house started by Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel when he reimagined its ready-to-wear line in the early '80s. Lagerfeld during Paris Fashion Week in 2013. Bertrand Rindoff Petroff/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Biography He was warned against joining the house and reportedly told The New York Times, "Everybody said, 'Don't touch it, it's dead, it will never come back.' But by then I thought it was a challenge." Lagerfeld took on Chanel against the advice of his peers. Francois Mori/AP Images Source: Business of Fashion Lagerfeld took that challenge and ran with it. He is most known for amplifying the original design concepts put forth by Coco Chanel, adding his own flair and twists reflecting the changing times. He made the brand his own while paying homage to its founder. Francois Mori / AP Images Source: Business of Fashion, NPR "[Chanel was] a sleeping beauty. Not even a beautiful one. She snored," he said in the 2007 documentary "Lagerfeld Confidential." "So I was to revive a dead woman." Lagerfeld waving to the audience after a runway show. Christophe Ena / AP Images Source: CNN NPR's Susan Stamberg once described Chanel and the Karl Lagerfeld effect in 2005. She talked about the classic and timeless appeal of the original house, adding, "The real Lagerfeld part: the illusion of unraveling wool, laced with color, at the skirt and cuffs." Models walk the Chanel runway in 2014. Reuters Source: NPR In 1984, he launched his own eponymous label around the motif of "intellectual sexiness." He developed his own brand, which also evolved over time. Christian Vierig/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Biography In 2005, Lagerfeld sold the brand to the Tommy Hilfiger Group, but he continued as chief creative director. Lagerfeld at the end of a 1991 Chanel show in Paris. Pool Arnal/Garcia/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Business of Fashion The first brick-and-mortar shop for the brand opened in Doha, Qatar, in 2015. A sign outside a Karl Lagerfeld store in London. John Phillips/Stringer/Getty Images Source: Biography The designer's namesake brand exudes an "effortless, rock-chic" vibe somewhat different from the other labels he designed for. The brand did a collaboration with model Kaia Gerber. Donato Sardella/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Karl Lagerfeld the brand In 2018, he launched a line in collaboration with model Kaia Gerber. It's been described as a mash-up of the two icons: part Malibu and part Paris. Lagerfeld (left), Kaia Gerber (center), and Pier Paolo Righi (right) in 2018 at the collection's launch. Francois Durand/Stringer/Getty Images Source: Harper's BAZAAR Despite his reputation, Lagerfeld wasn't opposed to working with brands considered to be out of the realm of luxury or high fashion. Lily-Rose Depp (left) and Lagerfeld (right) at the WWD Honors in 2017. Evan Agostini/Invision/AP Images Source: Biography In 2004, he collaborated with H&M, which set the stage for future fast-fashion collaborations with brands and designers like Stella McCartney, Comme des Garcons, Versace, Maison Martin Margiela, and most recently, Jeremy Scott's Moschino. Lagerfeld collaborated with H&M on a line. AP Photo/Mark Lennihan Source: CNN, NPR, W Magazine And in 2011, he designed a capsule collection for Macy's. Lagerfeld (left) and Anna Wintour (right) at Macy's in 2011. Ben Gabbe/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Fashionista, Biography Also in 2011, Lagerfeld designed a glassware line for Orrefors. Lagerfeld sitting in front of his glassware collection. Orrefors/YouTube Source: Architectural Digest Throughout it all, he was known as both a collector and an auctioneer he'd gather up things like furniture, books, and real estate for their connection to the aesthetic of their time, and then auction them off in a seemingly emotionally disconnected way. Lagerfeld arrives at the 2015 British Fashion Awards in London. Jonathan Short/Invision/AP Images Source: The New York Times According to The Times, people who knew him said he did the same with some personal relationships. He was reportedly known to show little emotion in some situations. Tony Gutierrez/AP Images Source: The New York Times His spending habits landed him the label of a "squanderer." To that, he said: "If you throw money out of the window throw it out with joy. Don't say: 'One shouldn't do that' that is bourgeois." Lagerfeld after his Chanel spring/summer 2019 ready-to-wear collection presentation. Christophe Ena/AP Images Source: NPR, Vogue He also found himself at the center of controversy when it came to the way he spoke. He voiced views on people's appearance, models, and the #MeToo movement. His comments have been called "cruel." Remy de la Mauviniere/AP Images Source: NPR, Model Alliance, Numero, BuzzFeed He also took a dig at Heidi Klum in 2009 when he said: "Heidi is no runway model. She is simply too heavy and has too big a bust. And she always grins so stupidly. That is not avant-garde that is commercial!" Model and TV personality, Heidi Klum. Reuters Source: Fashionista He was also critical of his own weight at times. He once lost weight to "be a good clotheshorse," according to The Telegraph. Martin Meissner / AP Images Source: The Telegraph Around the early 2000s, he wanted to wear suits by Hedi Slimane which had a slim fit so he lost 92 pounds in a year. Lagerfeld (left) and Hedi Slimane (right). Bertrand Rindoff Petroff/Contributor/Getty Images Source: The Telegraph, The New Yorker In fact, he ended up writing a book about his diet titled "The Karl Lagerfeld Diet." In the book, he talked about his love for Diet Coke and toast, calling toast "the height of luxury" and "the most delicious thing in the world." Lagerfeld celebrating the launch of limited edition Diet Coke bottles in 2011. BERTRAND LANGLOIS/Stringer/Getty Images Source: Insider, The Guardian, Harper's Bazaar His history of working with fur has also placed him at the center of some animal-rights controversy. Three PETA activists outside a Karl Lagerfeld store in 1997. Alain BUU/Contributor/Getty Images Source: The New York Times, PEOPLE PETA referred to the designer as its "nemesis" in a tweet that was meant to announce the "end of an era" that celebrated fur in fashion, and to send condolences to his family after his passing. Lagerfeld was known for his use of furs. Lionel Cironneau/AP Images Source: PETA UK Twitter His career extended into the entertainment industry as well he served as a costume designer, director, actor, and even writer in a number of films. Lagerfeld had many facets to his career. harles Sykes/Invision/AP Images Source: IMDB In the world of fashion, Lagerfeld was known for his timely taste and of-the-moment designs. But he also appreciated and paid homage to trends and styles of the past. Lagerfeld (left) and Princess Caroline of Hanover (right). Valery Hache/AP Images Source: Biography He was reportedly known for shopping at flea markets where he'd buy old wedding dresses, deconstruct them, and then reimagine them completely. He was known for his creativity and innovative designs. Keystone-France/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Biography He cultivated a specific persona for himself that became iconic. His dark glasses and ponytail, in particular, dated back to the late '70s. Lagerfeld's now legendary look. Christophe Ena/AP Images Source: Harper's Bazaar, Vogue "I am like a caricature of myself, and I like that," he said. "It is like a mask. And for me the Carnival of Venice lasts all year long." He created his own character and stuck to it. Francois Mori / AP Images Source: Vogue In terms of his personal life, Lagerfeld had an 18-year relationship with Jacques de Bascher. De Bascher died from complications from AIDS in 1989. Lagerfeld (left) and Jacques De Bascher in 1977. WWD/Contributor/Getty Images Source: The Mirror The fashion designer is survived by his Instagram-famous cat, Choupette. In 2013, Lagerfeld told CNN, "There is no marriage, yet, for human beings and animals ... I never thought I would fall in love like this with a cat." Lagerfeld in front of a photo of his cat, Choupette. Franziska Krug/Getty Images Source: CNN He has said Choupette is the more famous of the two of them: "She has become the most famous cat in the world. I even get propositioned by pet food companies and things like that, but it's out of the question. I'm commercial. She's not. She's spoiled to death. Obviously." Lagerfeld autographs a sketch of his cat, Choupette. Jens Kalaene/picture alliance via Getty Images Source: Vogue He said the Birman breed cat, who has 226,000 followers on Instagram, would be one of the heirs to his fortune, adding, "Don't worry, there is enough for everyone." He left some of his fortune to Choupette in his will. Jens Kalaene/picture alliance via Getty Images Source: Insider, Choupette Lagerfeld Instagram His death sparked tributes from fashion icons around the world. Lagerfeld (left) and Grace Coddington (right). Francois Mori / AP Images Source: Harper's Bazaar "Thanks to his creative genius, generosity and exceptional intuition, Karl Lagerfeld was ahead of his time, which widely contributed to the House of Chanel's success throughout the world," Chanel CEO Alain Wertheimer said in a statement to CNN. Lagerfeld sketching at the Chanel studio in Paris in 1984. John van Hasselt - Corbis/Contributor/Getty Images Source: CNN Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of Fendi owner LVMH, said in a statement: "With the passing of Karl Lagerfeld we have lost a creative genius who helped to make Paris the fashion capital of the world and Fendi one of the most innovative Italian houses ... We owe him a great deal: his taste and talent were the most exceptional I have ever known." Bernard Arnault is not pictured here. LIONEL BONAVENTURE/Contributor/Getty Images Source: NPR Donatella Versace wrote in an Instagram caption: "Karl your genius touched the lives of so many, especially Gianni and I. We will never forget your incredible talent and endless inspiration. We were always learning from you." Lagerfeld (left) and Donatella Versace (right) in 2008. Patrick McMullan/Contributor/Getty Images Source: Donatella Versace Instagram On September 30, Vogue announced that the Metropolitan Museum of Art's spring 2023 Costume Institute exhibition will honor the designer with the theme "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty." Blake Lively (left) and Lagerfeld (right) at the 2011 Met Gala. Evan Agostini/AP Photo Source: Vogue Since its announcement, some people have taken to social media to express their disappointment in the choice of the exhibition, citing Lagerfeld's racism, fatphobia, xenophobia, and opposition to the #MeToo movement. Lagerfeld (left) and Anna Wintour (right), a chairperson of the annual Met Gala. Jonathan Short/Invision/AP Photo Source: BuzzFeed Read the original article on Insider Insiders who bought UK470k worth of Cornerstone FS plc's (LON:CSFS) stock at an average buy price of UK0.11 over the last year may be disappointed by the recent 18% decrease in the stock. Insiders invest with the hopes of seeing their money grow in value over time. However, as a result of recent losses, their initial investment is now only worth UK314k, which is not what they expected. Although we don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. Check out our latest analysis for Cornerstone FS Cornerstone FS Insider Transactions Over The Last Year Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by insider Robert O'Brien for UK429k worth of shares, at about UK0.10 per share. That means that even when the share price was higher than UK0.07 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the company's future. To us, it's very important to consider the price insiders pay for shares. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock if insiders have bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price. In the last twelve months Cornerstone FS insiders were buying shares, but not selling. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date! Cornerstone FS is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Insiders At Cornerstone FS Have Bought Stock Recently Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider buying at Cornerstone FS. insider Robert O'Brien spent UK429k on stock, and there wasn't any selling. That shows some optimism about the company's future. Story continues Insider Ownership Of Cornerstone FS I like to look at how many shares insiders own in a company, to help inform my view of how aligned they are with insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Cornerstone FS insiders own 56% of the company, currently worth about UK1.7m based on the recent share price. This kind of significant ownership by insiders does generally increase the chance that the company is run in the interest of all shareholders. What Might The Insider Transactions At Cornerstone FS Tell Us? The recent insider purchase is heartening. And an analysis of the transactions over the last year also gives us confidence. However, we note that the company didn't make a profit over the last twelve months, which makes us cautious. Along with the high insider ownership, this analysis suggests that insiders are quite bullish about Cornerstone FS. Looks promising! In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Cornerstone FS. To that end, you should learn about the 5 warning signs we've spotted with Cornerstone FS (including 4 which are potentially serious). If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here It is very dangerous in Liman right now Cherevaty said the city is already free of invading troops, and measures to clear the area and make it safe for residents to return are now ongoing. "First of all, there is a very dangerous mine situation there, Cherevaty said. The occupiers have left an extremely large number of anti-personnel mines... and they have left petal (anti-personnel) mines that cannot be seen among the fallen autumn leaves," he said. Many foreign journalists want to get to Lyman, but it is still very dangerous there, Cherevaty added. On the afternoon of Oct. 1, the Ukrainian army reported the liberation of five settlements near Lyman, which resulted in a group of several thousand Russian troops becoming surrounded. Read also: Ukraines liberation of Lyman may be start of de-occupation of Luhansk Oblast, says regional governor By the evening, Russias Defense Ministry said its troops in Lyman had been redeployed, calling it a withdrawal to more favorable defensive lines. Ukraines Defense Ministry in turn responded to this in a mocking tweet, saying thatalmost all Russian troops deployed to Lyman were successfully redeployed either into body bags or into Ukrainian captivity. On the afternoon of Oct. 2, President Zelenskyy announced that Ukraines Armed Forces had completely freed Lyman of Russian invasion troops. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday accused arch-foes the United States and Israel of fomenting the wave of nationwide unrest sparked by outrage over the death of Mahsa Amini. "I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," the supreme leader said. Amini, 22, was pronounced dead on September 16, days after the notorious morality police detained the Kurdish Iranian for allegedly breaching rules forcing women to wear hijab headscarves and modest clothes. Anger over Amini's death has sparked the biggest wave of protests to rock the Islamic republic in almost three years, which saw security forces in Tehran crack down on hundreds of university students overnight. In his first public comments since Amini's death, 83-year-old Khamenei stressed that police must "stand up to criminals" and added that "whoever attacks the police leaves the people defenceless against criminals, thugs, thieves". "The death of the young woman broke our hearts," said Khamenei. "But what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars". - 'Incredible courage' - Concern grew about a crackdown overnight on students at Tehran's prestigious Sharif University of Technology where, local media reported, riot police carrying steel pellet guns used tear gas and paintball guns against hundreds of students. "Woman, life, liberty" the students shouted, as well as "students prefer death to humiliation", Mehr news agency reported. Iran's science minister, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol, came to speak to the students in a bid to calm the situation, the report said. Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights posted videos apparently showing police on motorcycles chasing students running through an underground car park and taking away detainees whose heads were covered in black cloth bags. Story continues In one clip, which IHR said was taken at a Tehran metro station, a crowd can be heard chanting: "Don't be afraid! Don't be afraid! We are all together!" "Hard to bear what is happening at #SharifUniversity in #Iran," German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock tweeted. "The courage of the Iranians is incredible. And the regime's brute force is an expression of sheer fear of the power of education and freedom." The New York-based Center for Human Rights in Iran said it was "extremely concerned by videos coming out of Sharif University and Tehran today showing violent repression of protests + detainees being hauled away with their heads completely covered in fabric". Protests were also reported at other universities, including in the central city of Isfahan, and unconfirmed reports by a student group on Twitter said dozens had been arrested in the capital. Mehr news agency said that Sharif University of Technology had "announced that due to recent events and the need to protect students ... all classes will be held virtually from Monday". - 'Please help me' - Iran has repeatedly accused outside forces of stoking the protests and last week said nine foreign nationals -- including from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland -- had been arrested. The parents of Italian woman Alessia Piperno, 30, from Rome, said they lost contact with their daughter after speaking to her on Wednesday -- her birthday -- but then received a phone call on Sunday to say she was in jail. "They arrested me. I am in a prison in Tehran. Please help me," she told them, according to Il Messaggero, Rome's daily newspaper. She added: "I'm fine but there are people here who say they have been inside for months and for no reason. I fear I won't be let out again. Help me." Italy's foreign ministry has so far made no comment on the identity of the Italian held. At least 92 protesters have been killed so far in the Mahsa Amini rallies, said IHR, which has been working to assess the death toll despite internet outages and blocks on WhatsApp, Instagram and other online services. Amnesty International said earlier it had confirmed 53 deaths, after Iran's semi-official Fars news agency said last week that "around 60" people had died. The chief of riot police in Marivan, Kurdistan province, died of his wounds Sunday after being shot during "riots", state television said -- the 12th death reported among the security forces since September 16. An additional 41 people died in clashes Friday in Iran's southeastern Sistan-Baluchestan province, bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan, IHR reported earlier, citing local sources. Those protests were sparked by accusations a police chief in the region had raped a teenage girl of the Baluch Sunni minority, the rights group said. bur/sjw-fz/jsa Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in 2017 Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the U.S. and Israel for ongoing protests in his country, breaking weeks of silence on Monday to comment on the greatest public opposition to his regime in years. Protests across Iran broke out following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in police custody after allegedly going out in public without a headscarf. While the Iranian police have denied responsibility, Amini's father told BBC News that he blamed them for her death. Khamenei's comments came during a speech in which he said the unrest in the country "was planned," according to Axios. While Khamenei did express his sympathy for Amini's death, he added, "These riots and insecurities were designed by America and the Zionist regime, and their employees." "Their main problem is with a strong and independent Iran and the progress of the country," the supreme leader claimed. "They made the streets unsafe, burned Qurans, removed hijab from veiled women's heads, set fire to mosques and people's cars." "If it wasn't for this young girl, [the U.S. and Israel] would have created another excuse to create insecurity and riots in the country," he said. Khamenei went on to defend the actions of the Iranian police against the protesters, who have been seen cracking down on dissenters, often violently. Sources at the Sharif University of Technology told The Associated Press that police had even trapped students on campus while deploying tear gas. At least 83 protesters have already been killed, according to Reuters. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing Ukrainian troops take full control of Lyman while Russian media ramps up recriminations SheKnows In his new position as reigning monarch of the U.K., King Charles III may be getting ready to change things up. According to a source at the Daily Mail, the royal has reportedly decided not to move to Buckingham Palace, a move that was previously reported as fact given the residences title as the monarchs [] RAMALLAH (Reuters) - Israeli forces said they shot and killed two Palestinians in the West Bank who they said tried to carry out a car-ramming attack on troops conducting a security operation, while a Palestinian official described the incident as an "execution". The latest in a near-daily series of security incidents in the West Bank took place before dawn in the Al-Jalazoun refugee camp near Ramallah. The Israeli military said soldiers went into the camp to apprehend an individual suspected of "terror activity". During the operation, "two suspects attempted to carry out a ramming attack against IDF soldiers. The soldiers responded with fire and neutralized the two suspects", said the Israeli military. The account was disputed by a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who said the troops had carried out an "execution." "Such a reckless policy will not bring security or stability for anyone," said the spokesman, Nabil Abu Rudeineh. Awatef Basbous, the mother of one of the dead men, said her son had been going to his job at a bakery when he was shot. "It never crossed my mind they would kill him on his way to work," Awatef Basbous said, as she met women neighbours who came to the house to pay their respects. More than 70 Palestinians have been killed this year as Israel has stepped its operations in West Bank cities following a series of deadly Palestinian street attacks in Israel earlier in the year. Raids by Israeli security forces and clashes with militant groups in West Bank cities like Nablus and Jenin have escalated as Israel approaches a general election on Nov. 1. Initial media reports spoke of three casualties in the incident and one witness, who declined to be identified, said he had seen troops carrying three bodies away from the site. However Israeli military spokesmen said there were only two casualties. (Reporting by Nidal Almughrabi in Gaza, Ali Sawafta and Mohammed Torokman in Ramallah; editing by Philippa Fletcher) MILAN (Reuters) - Italy on Monday froze some real estate properties owned by two Russian oligarchs in the luxurious seaside resort of Portofino, in Sirmione on Lake Garda and in Rome, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said. Guardia di Finanza police seized Villa Altachiara, a mansion with a park on the Portofino promontory on the Ligurian Sea, and a property and a car in Rome from Eduard Khudainatov, the former chief of Russian energy giant Rosneft. Khudainatov was placed on the EU sanction blacklist following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, one of the sources said, adding that his assets are worth around 57 million euros ($55.86 million). In May, Italian police impounded a luxury yacht worth some $700 million believed to be owned by Khudainatov and that has been linked in the media to Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a separate operation, police froze a complex property in Sirmione, a town on Lake Garda in northeastern Italy, worth more than 15 million euros. One of the sources said it belongs to Grigory Berezkin, the chairman of "Esn", a Russian private equity group. Italy sequestered villas and yachts worth over 900 million euros in March and April from wealthy Russians, who regularly came to the country on holiday and had bought property in many prestigious locations. The total value of assets seized so far in Italy from Russian oligarchs is more than 1.7 billion euros, according to an updated official list of the Guardia di Finanza. ($1 = 1.0204 euros) (Reporting by Emilio Parodi; Editing by Leslie Adler) Pedestrians pass a clothing store in Berlin, where surging inflation and fears about an energy crisis are hitting home. (Sean Gallup / Getty Images) Kati Pannwitz spends her evenings at home alone in a darkened and unheated apartment, watching old movies while worrying about the new reality of life in a country that is being drawn ever closer to the war in Ukraine. Surging inflation and fears about an energy crisis are hitting home for Pannwitz, 34, taking a heavy toll on her finances and the futures of both her and her 17-year-old son. No more vacations, no more trips abroad, no more going out, no more saving and an outlook that has grown increasingly bleak for Pannwitz and millions of fellow Germans since Russian armed forces invaded Ukraine seven months ago. "How can we pay the bills when prices are going insane like this?" asks Kati Pannwitz. (Erik Kirschbaum / For The Times) Ive given up on all my dreams, said Pannwitz, a single mother who works at a Berlin car dealership and had been saving up to travel the world one day. Because her financial reserves have vaporized this year, she plans to start moonlighting in a mens clothing shop just to keep making ends meet. Her son recently joined the army after finishing high school. Like all my friends, Im scared about how to get by, she said. How can we pay the bills when prices are going insane like this? First I turned the heat down, but then I turned it off after the bill doubled. Ive been using candles instead of lights, and watching Netflix instead of going out. What else can I do? How are we going to survive this? Fears of runaway inflation have been anathema for generations to Germans aware of the history of Adolf Hitler and his Nazi Party rising to power on the heels of a nation ravaged by hyperinflation in the 1920s. The anxiety in one of Europes most prosperous countries provides an eerie hundred-year deja vu that has upset Germans more than the war itself that they want nothing to do with yet playing out just 1,000 miles to the east. A large disturbance in the Baltic Sea last week after a series of mysterious explosions that damaged gas pipelines. (Danish Defence Command via Associated Press) Exacerbating the anxiety of a dark, cold and possibly even hunger-filled winter ahead have been the ominous saber-rattling from Russian President Vladimir Putin about possibly turning to nuclear weapons against Ukraine and the West. The mystery-shrouded explosions at the bottom of the Baltic Sea, damaging natural gas pipelines that had not long ago delivered nearly half of Germanys supplies, have unsettled the country even more. Story continues No one will freeze or starve to death this winter can the German government really back up that promise? was the entirely earnest episode title of a popular prime-time talk show called Anne Will on the ARD public broadcasting network last Sunday. On Thursday, the German government announced a $200-billion relief package designed to help Germans pay heating and electricity bills that for many have already doubled or, in some cases, tripled. Germans have been urged to conserve energy, turn down their thermostats and take cold or shorter showers, while authorities have shut off the lights and turned the heat down in public buildings. The dread spreading across Germany over inflation which hit a 71-year high of 10% this month and energy shortages have not gone unnoticed in Washington, where there are concerns about whether Europes largest economy could become a weak link in the chain taking a firm line on sanctions against Russia. The unmistakable German trepidation has also been followed closely in Moscow, where Putin the erstwhile KGB agent in East Germany and still a fluent speaker of the language is reported to be an avid consumer of German media. Putin is likely aware of opinion polls showing Germans to be more wary than others about the war and haunted about inflation, energy scarcity and warfare spreading to their peace-obsessed land. A recent survey for ARD by the respected Infratest Dimap institute found support for the German government and the tough sanctions regime against Russia sliding from a 66% approval rating in March to 53% in September. When asked their views if sanctions were to end up disrupting energy supplies, approval dropped from 68% in March to 54% in September. The institute also found in an April poll that 80% of Germans were worried the war in Ukraine would cause lasting damage to Germanys economy, 76% were afraid that Germany would suffer energy shortages, and 64% worried that the war would spread from Ukraine across Europe. A lot of people with modest incomes are hurting right now and afraid of whats next, and theres been quite an erosion in support for Ukraine and the sanctions as a result, said Thomas Jaeger, a political scientist at Cologne University. When it gets really cold this winter, support is going to sink further. The United States and other European countries already see Germany as a weak link. Thats going to be even weaker if the energy bills keep rising out of control. Already a deeply pacifist country with an understandable aversion to war after its Wehrmacht caused destruction across Europe in World War II, Germany has been accused of dragging its feet on supporting Ukraines efforts to defend itself at first refusing to send any weapons over fears it could antagonize Putin and lead to a wider war, and then coming up with a litany of changing reasons for withholding its highly regarded armored vehicles, tanks and air defense systems. Germanys reputation as a reliable partner in Europe is taking a nose-dive, said Jaeger, pointing to a survey last week by the German Marshall Fund that found perceptions of Germanys reliability have plummeted by more than 10 percentage points this year in Poland, Turkey, the United States and Spain. "Everyone I know is scared about this war but also afraid of our economy falling apart," says tax advisor Joerg Feucker. (Erik Kirschbaum / For The Times) That doesnt matter at all for Germans like Joerg Feucker, a 51-year-old tax advisor in Berlin who is worried that what he calls the Wests economic war against Russia will only end up crippling German industry, cause insolvencies and put an abrupt end to three golden decades of post-Cold War prosperity. Everyone I know is scared about this war but also afraid of our economy falling apart, and the fallout from that could end up being worse than from the war, Feucker said, noting that Germanys position as the worlds fourth largest economy could be in jeopardy. Its all looking grim right now with no silver lining on the horizon anywhere. Its all falling apart right in front of our eyes, and were back to where we were during the Cold War with an East-West nuclear standoff," he said. "People are scared, and dont know how theyre going to get through this. ... "Its hard for a lot of us to understand how were getting sucked into so much destruction for Ukraine. A lot of people dont get it. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Ketanji Brown Jackson, the Supreme Courts newest justice and the first Black woman to hold the position, proved one of the most active questioners on the bench Monday during her first argument at the High Court as the justices kicked off a new term. Bedecked in the customary black robe, Jackson occupied a seat at the far end of the bench, in keeping with the courts traditional seating arrangement based on seniority, with Chief Justice John Roberts at the center. Jackson, a former judge on two lower federal courts in Washington, is expected to round out the courts three-member liberal wing on a bench now dominated by six Republican-appointed justices pursuing an aggressive conservative legal agenda. The court opened its term with a major environmental dispute over the federal governments reach in protecting the nations waterways under the Clean Water Act. Jackson took her turn among the justices in posing questions to the lawyers who argued the dispute between the Environmental Protection Agency and Idaho landowners. The landowners have urged the court to narrow the governments authority over wetlands to encompass only those with a visible surface connection to U.S. waters. You say the question is which wetlands are covered, which I agree with, she told a lawyer for the property owners. But I guess my question is, why would Congress draw the coverage line between abutting wetlands and neighboring wetlands when the objective of the statute is to ensure the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the nations waters? The tenor of Jacksons questions hewed closely to the purpose of the Clean Water Act, which turns 50 this month, and the underlying facts of the dispute. As the courts only former public defender, Jackson is expected to bring a unique perspective to her new role, though she will not fundamentally alter the courts conservative tilt. Story continues She fills the seat vacated by Justice Stephen Breyer, for whom she once clerked, following his retirement this summer and a grueling Senate confirmation process earlier this year. Jackson, responding to a question during her Senate confirmation hearing in March, said her judicial methodology cannot be easily defined a sharp departure from the Supreme Court confirmation of Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who labeled herself an originalist who would approach the task in the mold of Justice Scalia. Shying away from a particular label to define her style, Jackson said she adheres to a methodology that begins with assuming a position of neutrality, proceeds with various interpretive tools toward a transparent ruling without fear or favor, and studiously abides by judicial constraints. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A demonstrator carries a print of the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg as abortion rights activists march in protest on June 24, 2022, in Denver after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. (Jason Connolly/AFP/Getty Images/AFP via Getty Images) What a difference six months make. Earlier this year, it was generally conceded that Republicans would sweep to victories in the midterm elections, giving them control of the House and Senate. Yet as of Friday, Nate Silvers FiveThirtyEight election forecast gives Democrats more than a 2-to-1 probability of maintaining control of the Senate. And it even gives them a punchers chance almost 1 in 3 of maintaining control of the House, too. Advertisement Why the turnaround? Pundits point to falling gas prices and President Joe Bidens recent legislative victories. But if the Democrats claim victory in November, the person most responsible will be someone who passed away two years ago Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Advertisement Heres why. Last June, the news media reported that the Supreme Court had overruled Roe v. Wade, the 1973 case that recognized a constitutional right to abortion. And the vote in the case that brought an end to Roe, Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, was not even close: Six justices voted to uphold the Mississippi regulations in question. But the decision was actually more nuanced. The news media largely ignored the concurring opinion by Chief Justice John Roberts. True, Roberts was one of the six justices in the majority because he agreed that the Mississippi abortion restrictions at issue were constitutional. But Roberts specifically refused to join the other five justices who overruled Roe. He contended that stare decisis the principle that the Supreme Court should not overrule a precedent without very compelling reasons was an argument in favor of affirming Roes half-century-old doctrine. (His reasoning was similar to that found in his 2012 opinion, which provided the deciding vote in the courts decision to uphold Obamacare.) So actually, the vote to overrule Roe was only 5-4. And the deciding vote to overrule was cast by the newest member of the court, Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Barrett, of course, was appointed in 2020 to fill the vacancy created by the death of Ginsburg. The courts decision to overrule Roe has created a tsunami of support for pro-abortion rights Democrats. This has been evidenced by everything from the Kansas abortion referendum vote and increased Democratic fundraising to the results of House special elections. Clearly, the Dobbs decision has galvanized support for Democrats in the upcoming elections. But consider this. Many liberals were upset when Ginsburg refused to resign during President Barack Obamas two terms. If she had, Barrett would not have provided the fifth vote to overrule Roe. Instead, Obamas appointee would almost certainly have provided the fifth vote to affirm Roe. So if Ginsburg had resigned, Roe would still be good law. But if Ginsburg had resigned, abortion would not be an issue in this years campaign. That means the fundraising bump caused by Dobbs would never have happened. That means the increased Democratic voter interest because of abortion would never have materialized. That means that the Republicans would right now probably be predicted to win the Senate and the House. The law of unintended consequences works in strange ways. In the long run, Ginsburgs refusal to resign cost Democrats an additional Supreme Court appointment. Advertisement But in the short run, her decision may result in Democrats keeping control of one or both houses of the legislature in November. Timothy P. ONeill is an emeritus professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. UPDATE: JSO has identified the suspect as 37-year-old Charlie Brown. One neighbor told Action News Jax he heard five gunshots late last night. Another woman said shes lived in the neighborhood since 1999. When she heard the gunshots, she ran to her bedroom for safety. Action News Jax also spoke with a neighbor who has lived in area for 3 years Its very quiet, so I would have never expected anything like this to happen in our area, the neighbor said. I just feel like you can never be too safe. This should be a reminder to us all to never take for granted where you are just because you live in a safe neighborhood. Anything could happen at any time, one neighbor said. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A Jacksonville Sheriffs Officer was taken to a local hospital for evaluation following a late night shooting on Old Middleburg Road North near Fouraker Road. Police say the suspected shooter stole a car, crashed, and then jumped off the Dames Point Bridge. A body has been recovered. According to JSO, officers initially responded to a burglary in progress just before 11 pm Sunday, when they were ambushed by the suspect who fired multiple rounds. The officer was hit in the back. Body armor stopped the round. Officers returned fire but the suspect was able to flee in a stolen car. As the suspect drove off, additional shots were fired at police. The suspect crashed the car southbound on the Dames Point Bridge and then jumped into the river before swimming away. A body was recovered around 3 am today, believed to be the suspect. The mans name has not been released. Officers found a firearm on the bed of the river near where the body was recovered. The State Attorneys Office is conducting an independent investigation into the shooting. Two JSO officers were placed on administrative leave, which is standard operating procedure following an officer-involved shooting. Story continues The officer who was shot was released from the hospital. We are told the officer has severe bruising. This is a developing story, refresh for updates. #JSO Chief Brian Kee held a stand-up this morning in reference to an officer involved shooting that occurred on the Citys westside. Upon arriving to a reported Burglary, the two responding officers were ambushed by an armed suspect. One of the two officers was struck by gunfire, but was able to return fire. The suspect was able to flee the area in a vehicle taken during the burglary. He later crashed on the Dames Point Bridge before jumping into the St. Johns River, according to witnesses. The body of the man believed to be responsible for the attempted murder of the officer was recovered from the river several hours later and was pronounced deceased. The Medical Examiner is working to positively identify the suspect and determine the cause of death. Posted by Jacksonville Sheriff's Office on Monday, October 3, 2022 #JSO is on scene of an Officer Involved Shooting near the 4100 block of Middleburg Road North. Officer transported to local hospital for evaluation, suspect being sought. More to follow as it is learned. pic.twitter.com/dV5rE6t2uh Jax Sheriff's Office (@JSOPIO) October 3, 2022 Thirty-four Capitol riot defendants held at a DC jail are seeking a transfer to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. They claim in a court petition that conditions at the military prison would be better than where they are now. Among their complaints: the alleged presence of critical race theory propaganda and staff who wear "Democrat" attire. Several Capitol riot defendants being held at a DC jail say the conditions are so unbearable they would rather be sent to Gitmo. A cohort of 34 January 6 detainees in a blistering Friday letter petitioned the court for a transfer to Guantanamo Bay prison in Cuba, describing the notorious facility as one that "actually" provides nutritional meals, sunlight exposure, top notch medical care, and is respectful of religious requirements conditions they claim are lacking at the D.C. Central Detention Facility. Among them are defendants accused of assaulting officers, obstructing justice and other offenses in connection with the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump who hoped to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. The US established Guantanamo Bay in Cuba in 2002 following the 9/11 attacks. It quickly became known as a facility rife with human rights abuses, including reports of torture, sexual abuse, and illegal detention. Fewer than 40 people remain incarcerated at the detention center, and Democratic lawmakers in recent years have ramped up pressure to close the facility for good. But the co-signers of Friday's letter which includes Proud Boys, Oath Keepers, and self-described "political prisoners" seem to suggest that the military prison with a reputation for misery would be a step up from their current residence. In a seven-page letter the group of pre-trial detainees rattled off dozens of complaints about their newfound home, describing the facility as an "abomination to the law and it's nation government" where the "woeful captives are all but slowly murdered in every way except for their very soul being ripped from their famished chests." Story continues Among the prisoners' afflictions are several standard injustice often levied against the American prison industry, including inadequate meals and facilities, limited access to legal services, and name-calling from the guards. In their list of grievances, the defendants also lament vaccine requirements, the alleged presence of critical race theory propaganda, and staff who wear "Democrat" attire, including Black Lives Matter and Kamala Harris apparel. A public information officer with the DC Department of Corrections could not immediately be reached for comment. An attorney for one of the rioters who signed the letter included a copy of the handwritten note in a Friday exhibit seeking his client's release. Accused rioters at the jail have previously complained about the facility's conditions, and in December 2021, an unannounced US Marshals Service inspection led to the removal of about half the inmates due to the inhumane environment. They say the jail should be described as an "'evisceration facility,' of the body, mind, and soul," and claim prisoners are begging for help, water, medical aid. They say worms are found in salad and prisoners have suffered a loss of hair and vision and even scurvy because of malnutrition. Members of Congress, hoping to check on them, have been denied entry, according to their letter. They claim they are "political prisoners on American soil, who have been unjustly and unfairly incarcerated." Read the original article on Business Insider When fired Caldwell Lt. Joey Hoadley faced a federal probe related to allegations of witness tampering, evidence destruction and excessive use of force, he expected the Caldwell Police Department to take care of him. The walls of this place say, Take care of us, (but) we truly feel left behind, Hoadley wrote in an email to then-Caldwell Police Capt. Devin Riley in August 2021. Please do something to take care of us. This is my last request. Riley retired in the spring. Hoadley was referencing one of the former core values of the Caldwell Police Department: Take Care of Us. But since Hoadleys removal from the department and the appointment of Caldwell Police Chief Rex Ingram, that value has been removed literally. Ingram pried off any signs displayed around the department that referenced that value along with another: Address the Evil. The newly hired chief left only one of the values: Take Care of Our Community. Ingram told the Idaho Statesman that while he agreed with the concept of each value, he believed the take care of us value had been corrupted. He said he opposed the message it had sent to officers covering up for other people. We dont need to say we are taking care of us. I am taking care of my people, and Im showing them, Ingram told the Statesman by phone. Ingram is in the process of taking community and staff feedback to replace the old values. Ingram, a former lieutenant with the Los Angeles Police Department, took over the department during a precarious time as the FBI began an investigation into Hoadley and a now-resigned Caldwell police sergeant. The FBI notified then-Chief Frank Wyant about the probe in June 2021, and officials have confirmed that the investigation is active and ongoing. Ingram said he took down the Address the Evil value because he felt like it implied that everyone is evil. I dont believe that society is evil, Ingram said. I think that there are evil people in society. Story continues After a six-day trial, Hoadley was convicted of three of the four counts against him: destruction, alteration or falsification of records in a federal investigation; tampering with a witness by harassment; and tampering with documents. He was acquitted of the charge that involved the allegation that he struck a Caldwell man while arresting him in 2017 a focal point of the FBIs investigation. A 14-person jury, two of the jurors were alternates, listened as over a dozen witnesses most were current and former Caldwell officers were called throughout the trial. I think that its kind of bittersweet for the people that testified because its the culmination of two years of living through this every day this horror show, Ingram said, referring to the officers who testified. That was their day in court to really get it off their chest and be able to tell the world what theyve been keeping in since the onset of the investigation. So they might feel vindicated, but they definitely are extremely traumatized over everything. Caldwell officers testify against Hoadley Caldwell Police Detective Joseph Cardwell was the first witness to testify. In 2016, Cardwell attended a Northwest Gang Investigators Association conference in Spokane, Washington, with Hoadley and other officers. He testified that during the trip, Hoadley showed Cardwell a video of Hoadley punching a detained man right in the face. It wasnt until 2020 that Cardwell reported the incident to the FBI. During testimony, he became emotional and said he didnt feel like he could tell his superiors, testifying that Hoadley was friends with high-ranking officials for both the city of Caldwell and Canyon County. Has this been hard? Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Horwitz asked Cardwell during the testimony as he visibly began to choke up. Its been super hard on my family and me, Cardwell responded, holding back tears. Im so proud of the fact that we had officers that went to the FBI, that trusted the federal government to come in and conduct an independent, unbiased, objective investigation into the misconduct and for that Im forever grateful, Ingram told reporters during a Sept. 26 press conference following the verdict. Former Caldwell Sgt. Joshua Gregory also took the stand. He left the department in September 2021. During his testimony, Gregory almost immediately became emotional as Horwitz asked him questions. Did you enjoy being a police officer? Horwitz asked. Very much, Gregory tearfully responded. After a small pause, he clarified: I apologize. Yes, I enjoyed being a police officer. During the 2016 conference, which Gregory also attended, Cardwell approached him and told him about the video. He went to the FBI with Cardwell in 2020. Hoadley rebutted these claims during his four-hour testimony. He testified that the FBIs investigation, and subsequent reactions from his colleagues, negatively affected his work. The FBI has gone to extreme lengths to destroy our character, and if nothing is done by the police department, the city of Caldwell, (human resources) or the city attorney (to) put an end to this bogus investigation, I will take a drive over there and put a stop to it myself, Hoadley wrote in an email he sent to Riley in August 2021, which was obtained by the FBI. In Hoadleys testimony, he said he sent the email because he wanted to get answers regarding the FBI investigation and had information on other officers that he felt the FBI should actually be investigating. Im not above making some serious waves and giving them some things to truly investigate, Hoadley said. NextShark A 47-year-old Thai man is in critical condition after two Frenchmen assaulted him in an unprovoked attack caught on camera. According to Lakhana, Somkuan had said, That car is so beautiful, when will we get a car like this? They reportedly followed the Porsche to appreciate it for a bit longer before passing. The Porsche then allegedly began tailgating the couples motorbike and honked at them until they pulled to the side of the road in front of a grilled pork stall. A spokesperson for the City of Pittsburgh told Channel 11 that leaders are reviewing options for the future of Schenley Parks Christopher Columbus statue after a judge recently ruled that the city has the legal right to remove it. The opinion, issued by Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge John T. McVay Jr., comes following a two-year legal saga surrounding the controversial monument. The debate began in 2020, when the citys art commission voted to remove the statue in response to community pressure. A petition was presented to city leaders, claiming that Columbus legacy should be rebuked rather than celebrated. He stands for violence and the worst of humanity, a local student told Channel 11 on Tuesday. In October 2020, the Italian Sons and Daughters of America filed an emergency motion to block the city from removing the statue, which rests on city-owned land. George Bochetto, the organizations attorney, told Channel 11 that there is widespread misinformation on Columbus legacy and celebration surrounding it. Its much more of a symbol of Italian-American achievement, than it is just simply a memorialization of Christopher Columbus achievements, the attorney said. Bochetto told Channel 11 that the group plans to appeal the judges opinion. Were deeply disappointed in the judges ruling. I have a lot of respect for this judge. Hes a very good man, Bochetto said. But he got it wrong. The judges 21-page opinion concludes by stating he encourages all parties to continue to meet and discuss final resolution and a future agreeable location. The opinion adds nothing in this memorandum precludes the parties from working together to find resolution along the lines of a history center, museum, or some private property location that attempts to present all historical perspectives. Bochetto said he would like to sit down with the mayor and work out a resolution. A spokesperson for the mayors office told Channel 11 that they are reviewing the opinion and looking at options. The city hopes to have an outcome firmed up soon, with no immediate steps being taken at this time. TRENDING NOW: Man who died after falling from escalator at Acrisure Stadium identified Police seek info after Harmony businessman goes missing, is considered to be endangered Kim Kardashian, charged with unlawfully touting crypto, to pay $1.26 million VIDEO: 1 person hospitalized in critical condition after shooting in Knoxville neighborhood DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by a Franklin County sheriffs deputy who claimed that Franklin Countys public defenders defamed him and violated his First Amendment rights when they criticized him for attending a Trump rally in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6. Franklin County Sheriffs Deputy Jeff Farmer filed a suit claiming all five public defenders in Franklin County violated his First Amendment rights and defamed him when they penned a letter calling him out for his attendance at the rally and his police record. In the letter, the public defenders asked Franklin County Sheriff Chris Quire to re-evaluate the role and placement that Deputy Farmer has in the sheriffs department. An external investigation took place which cleared Farmer of any wrongdoing, though a former police chief and policing policy expert has cast doubt on the quality of the investigation, according to a report from the Frankfort State Journal. Chief U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, of the Eastern District of Kentucky, ruled that the public defenders letter did not infringe on Farmers First Amendment rights, in large part because the public defenders were not acting in an official state capacity, according to court records. While the Defendants time and energy might be better used in representing indigent clients, they did not act as state officials in writing a letter criticizing Farmer to his employer and the public. They could have acted in the same manner without the authority of their office, Caldwell wrote in court records. The public defenders also critiqued Farmers police practice, claims which some people who have been arrested by Farmer have repeated. Farmer participated in an LEX18 interview not long after the riot to defend his decision to participate in Trumps rally. Theres millions of Americans who think the election wasnt exactly fair and voting discrepancies, its something we wanted to take part in, Farmer told the outlet, calling what occurred later at the U.S. Capitol disgraceful. Story continues The sheriffs deputy was named the offices Deputy of the Year in 2019, and he was heavily involved in police work related to the Pappygate scandal, appearing in a Netflix documentary on the infamous heist of hundreds of rare bourbon bottles. Farmers suit, which claimed the letter caused significant harm to his personal and professional reputation, sought more than $1 million in damages. Chris Wiest, a Northern Kentucky litigator known best for representing conservatives and filing several high-profile lawsuits challenging government COVID-19 restrictions, represents Farmer in the lawsuit and said that he plans to appeal. That appeal would occur in the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati. Farmer is still employed by the Franklin County Sheriffs Office. R. Kenyon Meyer, attorney for the public defenders, applauded the decision. We are very pleased with the Courts decision; my clients can continue their daily fight for justice without this lawsuit hanging over their heads, Meyer said. A Cook County judge on Monday threw out convictions for eight people whose cases were related to former Chicago police Sgt. Ronald Watts and his crew. Judge Erica Reddick vacated the convictions and sentences for the men in response to jointly filed motions by their lawyers and the Cook County states attorneys office. Prosecutors then dismissed the charges. The convictions are among more than 200 thrown out in connection to the disgraced police sergeant, who has been accused of systematically framing people at the former Ida B. Wells public housing complex on the South Side. Watts and a team of tactical officers falsified cases against people who refused to pay a protection tax. In April, Reddick threw out 44 convictions related to Watts after prosecutors changed course and agreed that they should be vacated. Watts was charged in 2012 with shaking down a drug courier who turned out to be an FBI agent and was sentenced to 22 months in prison. Mondays group included four gun-related cases, marking the first such cases related to Watts thrown out in years, lawyers for the men said. Only one previous gun case was tossed. We have long said that Watts and his team were involved in planting guns as well as drugs, said attorney Joshua Tepfer, who represented seven of the eight people. The petitions from the men whose cases were thrown out detail incidents of Watts of his crew planting drugs or guns and sometimes beating the men. In one case, the petition included a police report with a mug shot of a 19-year-old arrested on drug and gun charges showing a black eye and a bruised face. Were really happy for those guys, Tepfer said. Theyve been waiting a long time. Attorneys who have been handling the cases say they are nearing the end of their review of criminal cases, though they will keep taking cases that emerge. That leaves a raft of civil litigation that the attorneys say the city continues to fight. The city of Chicago makes a lot of noise about trying to be an inclusive city, but yet it defends these officers that ran roughshod over this community of people for a long time, said Sean Starr, a lawyer for some of the men. mabuckley@chicagotribune.com Liverpools Darwin Nunez (left) and manager Jurgen Klopp warming up before the Premier League match at Goodison Park, Liverpool. Picture date: Saturday September 3, 2022. (PA Wire) Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has sought to reassure summer signing Darwin Nunez there are no worries about his contribution or form. The Uruguay international arrived in June for an initial 64million fee which could rise to a club-record 85m but the start of his Anfield career has not gone to plan. Nunez scored in his first two appearances before being sent off against Crystal Palace in mid-August and on his return from suspension he has drawn a blank in four appearances, the last three of which have come as a substitute. The spotlight shines on the former Benfica strikers performances even more due to fellow summer arrival Erling Haalands incredible impact at Premier League rivals Manchester City. But Klopp and his coaching staff have moved to reassure Nunez. Only yesterday we had a long talk with Pep Lijnders (assistant manager) because my Portuguese is still not better and we just told him we are really calm, said Klopp. Its really important in our situation that he isnt looking like he is worrying or whatever Jurgen Klopp on Darwin Nunez Its really important in our situation that he isnt looking like he is worrying or whatever. The team is not flying, and that makes it not easier for a striker, especially not for a finisher. Its not that we arent creating chances, but its not like everything is clicking and we put in one player and he finishes our situation off. Thats not our situation at the moment as much as I wish it would be. Thats all. Left-back Kostas Tsimikas, currently deputising for the injured Andy Robertson, has also found it a difficult time to come into the side. He made only his third start of the season in Saturdays 3-3 draw against Brighton but was also affected by the lack of confidence which is currently affecting the side. I will not find excuses, we have got good players and we have to be focused 100 per cent for every challenge we face, he said. It is a bad moment. It is not a tactical issue or something because we do exactly the same thing like the previous years, with the same players. Story continues Its not possible that everybody forgets the tactics and game plan of the manager. How we play is the same, like the last years. Obviously last year we had the same structure, the same tactic and we went through in every competition. We won the two cups and we lost the Premier League by one point and we went to the final of the Champions League. ROMAN PETRENKO MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 13:34 Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of Chechnya, said that he will allegedly send his three 14-16-year-old sons to the war in Ukraine. Source: Kadyrov on Telegram Details: The Chechen leader said his children were ready to demonstrate their combat skills in the war in Ukraine. Quote from Kadyrov: "Minor age should not interfere with the training of defenders of our Motherland. Akhmat, Eli and Adam are 16, 15 and 14 years old, respectively. The time has come to prove their worth in a real battle, and I only welcome this desire of theirs. Soon they will go to the front line and will be in the toughest spots on the front line." Details: Kadyrov explained that he is being criticised, as if his relatives do not fight, so he decided to prove the opposite. For reference: Kadyrov has 4 sons and 6 daughters. Background: On the morning of 21 September, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the partial mobilisation of Russian citizens. Later, it turned out that the hidden 7th paragraph of the Russian Presidents decree on partial mobilisation allows the mobilisation of 1 million people, mainly from villages. On 24 September, protests against the war in Ukraine and the forced mobilisation of Russians took place in Russian cities; hundreds of people were detained. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Kaley Cuoco as Penny and Johnny Galecki as Leonard in "The Big Bang Theory." CBS Vanity Fair released an excerpt from the book "The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story." In it, Kaley Cuoco and Johnny Galecki recount how they fell in love on set. The two privately dated for two years while making the show. Kaley Cuoco admits she had a "big crush" on Galecki right when they started working on the show. He says he had "zero idea." "The Big Bang Theory." CBS According to the oral-history book "The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series," Cuoco was instantly drawn to Galecki. "I had a very big crush on Johnny early on," Cuoco says in the book. "I was so not even hiding it. He has such swagger. We were both dating people at the time, but I only had eyes for Johnny. Then, when I found out he had eyes for me too, I was like, 'Uhoh, this is going to be trouble.'" Galecki says in the book: "I have a healthy ego, but you really have to kind of club me over the head to let me know you're flirting with me. I had zero idea of any sort of crush before Kaley and I began dating." Things changed when they had their first kiss, during the sixth episode of the first season, when Penny dresses as a sexy cat. "The Middle Earth Paradigm" episode in season one. CBS "I knew I looked real cute in that outfit, so I was feeling really good about myself," Cuoco says. "And I knew he thought I looked cute because he commented on how cute I looked in that outfit earlier. But I was definitely nervous before that kiss." Galecki adds: "I mean, Kaley Cuoco as a kitty cat? Come on!" Galecki says he began to have feelings for Cuoco when they did this elevator-shaft dream sequence later in season one. "The Nerdvana Annihilation" episode in season one of "The Big Bang Theory." CBS In the dream sequence, Leonard saves Penny in the elevator shaft and they kiss. In reality, they were nose to nose for hours shooting the sequence. It was there when Galecki began to feel what Cuoco was already feeling. "We had to be in each other's arms and for quite some time, because it was a bit of a stunt that we were doing," Galecki says. "It was a whole thing, and it was a pretape since it took a little while. Kaley didn't look freaked out at all. In fact, she looked extremely happy in those arms. That was certainly one of the moments that I think " Story continues "I think we fell a little in love in that elevator shaft," Cuoco adds. "We felt something, yeah," Galecki says. "I think that was a massive turning point. At that point, both she and I knew that something mutual was felt, and that it was going to be more of a distraction from the work to try and continue to ignore it than to actually recognize it and surrender to it." The cast hung out before season two began, and Galecki ignored Cuoco's flirting. Cuoco and Galecki. Rich Polk/Getty Images Cuoco had just broken up with her boyfriend when Galecki invited her to the seaside town of Montecito, California, to hang out with the cast. She admits she tried to get Galecki to come to her room the first night, but he declined. "I went down to the front desk and got her a cabin, which ended up being the cabin next to mine," Galecki says. "By the time she showed up it was pretty late, and I had gone to bed. And then I got a call. It was Kaley. She said, 'There's a bug in my room.' I was like, 'Yeah, probably. You're in a cabin.' She said, 'You have to come and kill it.' I said, 'I'm not doing that.' Now, still to this day, I don't know if this story is bullshit or not, and if she was flirting with me because she had just broken up with her boyfriend, but I did not go over to her cabin." "There was definitely a bug in my room and I was flirting with him!" Cuoco said. "So both were true! I was like, 'Ooh, this could be a good way to get him in there!' But that didn't work. I couldn't believe he turned me down. I still think he turned me down because he knew what I was doing." Galecki finally made his move after a rehearsal day during season two. It led to "kissing in the parking lot," Cuoco says. "The Big Bang Theory." Sonja Flemming/CBS "I had gone over to the Smoke House Restaurant in Burbank after rehearsal," he says. "I was there for a bit when I texted Kaley because I knew she lived in the valley. I said, 'Hey, I'm just having a glass of white wine. Are you nearby?' And she texted back yes and was there in like twenty minutes or something. She later told me she was like forty-five minutes away when she got that text." "I was so excited when he texted me," Cuoco adds. "And I knew that was going to be trouble getting a glass of wine with him. I knew. And we kissed at the bar! It's so dark in there that you almost feel like you can do anything, but then it was like, 'Uhoh, I think this is really going to be bad.'" She says: "We started kissing in the bar area, and then we were kissing in the parking lot. Johnny can get really in his head and want to hide, whereas I'm the direct opposite. "I would have told everybody the next day at the table read. I would have announced it and said, 'We're together!' But he was like, 'We can't tell anyone!' "So we kept it quiet. And don't forget, it was different then. Social media was nowhere what it is now, so it was easier to keep it hidden. You didn't know as much about people as you do now. It's a different world." Galecki says they went back to Cuoco's place, where she disappeared for a moment and returned "wearing nothing but a towel, and sat on my lap." Cuoco disputes his account. Cuoco and Galecki. Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images "After that kiss at the Smoke House, she said, 'You gotta come over to my house,' so I did," Galecki says. "And then she disappeared. She came back having showered, wearing nothing but a towel, and sat on my lap. I was like, 'Okay, I guess we're dating!'" "I remember being in a robe and fully clothed underneath!" Cuoco says. "We obviously remember things quite differently, but I love this story." "I promise that my version is correct," Galecki adds. "I'm only kissing and telling because Kaley loves this story." Both say they never hooked up while on set. "The Big Bang Theory." CBS "Johnny was very worried about ruining the fans' outlook on Leonard and Penny, because they weren't even dating yet at that point in the series," Cuoco says. "He was so cerebral, and I'm like, 'What?! Who fuckin' cares?! They're gonna be fine!'" "And if we broke up, how would that affect their acceptance of the characters?" Galecki adds. "I didn't like the idea of people feeling like, 'Oh, Joanie and Chachi really do love each other!' At that point in my life, that felt embarrassing. I would feel differently about it today." After nearly two years together, they broke up. Cuoco says they "ran out of things to talk about." Galecki and Cuoco. Kevin Mazur/WireImage "We're from very different worlds, but we also seem to melt into each other's worlds in certain ways," Galecki says. "It was a lot of fun to teach one another different things, but then when I came to wanting different things, that made things more complicated." He adds: "I think one of the things that created a chasm between us was my strict policies of privacy, and Kaley being very, very open about her life. I was very uncomfortable with being public about it, and I think that hurt Kaley's feelings a little bit, and I can understand that. "It certainly wasn't because I was embarrassed of her or our relationship, but I wanted to be protective of the audience's acceptance of Penny and Leonard, and without distraction from the tabloids." "Johnny and I also ran out of things to talk about, because we'd be at work all day," Cuoco says. "We had no mystery. But we were together for a long time. We really adored each other, and we were lucky because as our breakup was happening, there was no foul play, there was nothing bad about our relationship ... it just ended." On the show, Penny and Leonard eventually get married twice. Both actors say those scenes weren't weird. Penny and Leonard get married. Sonja Flemming/CBS "You would think it might have been weird given there was a time Kaley and I did consider marrying, so those scenes would have been complicated at the very least," Galecki says. "But she and I are seasoned professionals, and we've been doing this since we were kids, so we used it as a bit of therapy." "Johnny and I got so close through the show and our experiences," Cuoco says. "There was such a comfort level, and he always was so supportive of me. We had a lot of talks where I'd be like, 'I don't know about this,' and then we'd go outside and have a chat. Whatever I needed. "We would almost finish each other's sentences. We knew each other's characters so well, but he was just constantly a steadfast person in my life, on that show, on that set." Read the original article on Insider The scramble by Illinois Democrats and especially Gov. J.B. Pritzker to legitimize a law he signed that the majority of law enforcement organizations opposes has been something to behold. Add to it the left-wing press corps pathetic attempt to tilt coverage of the law favorably, and youve reached a new low in a state that continues to earn its reputation as a national embarrassment. Where were members of the media when the so-called SAFE-T Act popped up for a Senate vote in the early hours of Jan. 13, 2021, during a lame-duck legislative session of lawmakers who had no accountability for their votes? Where was the outrage over the House vote that followed hours later literally minutes before new lawmakers were sworn in? Advertisement Where was the outrage that yet again, Springfield Democrats, emboldened by a petulant governor who prioritizes criminal suspects over crime victims, pulled a fast one, again, on the people of Illinois? The law, at nearly 800 pages, in part is set to take effect Jan. 1. It has become an issue, and should be, in every political campaign in the November election. To those of us paying attention, the SAFE-T Act was a disaster in 2021. It is a disaster still. Advertisement The bill was opposed by just about every law enforcement official in Illinois and yes, Democrats too. Of the few dozen or so Democratic county states attorneys in office in 2021 across the state, two openly supported its passage: Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx and Lake County States Attorney Eric Rinehart. Rinehart is the same person, by the way, overseeing the prosecution of the Highland Park parade shooting suspect. Now hes all about law and order. [ States attorneys: Illinois SAFE-T Act hinders law enforcement and gives violent offenders a pass ] The playbook by Democrats is always the same. Discredit those who disagree with you. Shame opponents by calling them racists. Disparage them with personal attacks. Ignore and pivot from the issue at hand, that the SAFE-T Act will only result in further significant increases in violent crime, undermine public safety, and deny justice to crime victims. Those arent my words. They belong to Justin Hood, the Democratic states attorney from Hamilton County. Eliminating cash bail will put the victims of crime and their families at great risk. Some examples Hood cited in a letter he wrote on behalf of an association representing Illinois prosecutors: A serial arsonist who sets fires to peoples homes by law must be released because we cannot specifically identify the person in the home where the next fire will be. A husband who murders his wife must be released because we cannot determine the person poses a danger to a specific, identifiable person or persons. The same applies to heroin dealers, drunken drivers, gun traffickers, and felons in possession of a gun. It would also allow defendants charged with violent crimes like rape and carjackings to be out on pretrial release. This is unacceptable. In addition, society as a whole is victimized by violent crime, which not only terrorizes and destroys our communities, but also costs taxpayers millions of dollars every year. How about these words, also not mine: This bill is an absolute disgrace. It threatens the very existence of the criminal justice system and endangers our communities. Please make your voice heard and contact the governors office. Thats what Democratic Alexander County States Attorney Zachary Gowin wrote on his Facebook page on the day the bill was passed. How about these thoughts from Democratic Kane County States Attorney Jamie Mosser, a criminal justice reform supporter: Criminal justice reform should not come at the expense of the safety our community. Further, it is my opinion that forcing this reform through, with the altruistic purpose of getting the reform that we need, will set our movement back. I urge you to make these changes and take the time to meet with those who share your goal. Democratic Will County States Attorney James Glasgow, among other top prosecutors, filed a lawsuit to overturn the SAFE-T Act. In predictable fashion, Glasgow, who called the act the end of days for the criminal justice system, is now being attacked by Democratic Party hacks, including from the governors office. Advertisement This is the same states attorney with a laudable reputation and track record who also has worked alongside reform groups such as Injustice Watch to bring greater fairness to the justice system. But sure, throw him under the bus in an agonizingly obvious case of officials covering themselves from the highest levels of the governors office. The public, as it tries to dissect the misinformation being thrown around by supporters of the act, need to focus on only one point: If the acts opponents are fearmongers, how does that explain the many states attorneys of all political persuasions across the state who collectively say the law is fundamentally dangerous? If the law is so solid, why are the experts on the ground so worried? *Editors note: An earlier version mischaracterized one of James Glasgows actions. He helped a man get a reduced sentence. Dan Proft is a radio talk show host on WIND-AM 560 and president of the People Who Play By the Rules Political Action Committee. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) Kenyas new president says the Cabinet has effectively lifted the countrys ban on openly cultivating genetically modified crops, reversing a decade-old decision as the East African country struggles with food security and a deadly drought. Open cultivation and importation of White (GMO) Maize is now authorized, the presidency statement said Monday, after years of concerns in Kenya and much of the African continent over the safety of genetically modified foods. Earlier this year, the United States via its trade representatives office criticized Kenya over its ban and the effects on U.S. agricultural exports to East Africas commercial hub. The ban also affected food aid, the office asserted in its annual report published in March. U.S. Trade Rep. Katherine Tai led the U.S. delegation to Rutos inauguration last month and noted the new presidents support for shared regional priorities including enhancing two-way trade. The Cabinet was meeting to discuss the drought that affects 23 of Kenyas 47 counties and strategies for longer-term food security in the country of more than 50 million people. It discussed significantly redefining agriculture in Kenya by adopting crops that are resistant to pests and disease and considered reports on the adoption of biotechnology, the presidency said. Agriculture is a main driver of Kenyas economy, and about 70% of the rural workforce is in farming. Ruto, a former agriculture minister, seeks greater agricultural productivity. Many African countries have bans on genetically modified agriculture, amid concerns about potentially harmful effects on smallholder farms, existing crops, the environment and peoples long-term health. The presidency statement noted that Kenya's Cabinet in 2019 made a limited step by approving the commercialization of a genetically enhanced variety of cotton to resist the African bollworm pest. Voters in several states are set to make decisions in November on some of the biggest policy questions facing the country. At stake is everything from the way certain states conduct elections to the future of reproductive rights an issue that has taken on heightened importance in the months since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark abortion rights case. Here are five issues that voters will weigh in on through ballot measures when they head to the polls in November. Abortion rights After Kansas voters soundly rejected a proposed amendment in August that would have stripped abortion protections from the state constitution, voters in four states are set to decide questions of reproductive rights in November. In California and Vermont two deep-blue states that already have already have liberal abortion laws voters are weighing proposed constitutional amendments that would enshrine reproductive rights into their state constitutions. The California proposal would add reproductive freedom including the right to have an abortion and to choose or refuse contraceptives to the state constitution, while the Vermont measure would enshrine personal reproductive autonomy into state law. In Michigan, voters will also decide whether to enshrine the right to have an abortion into the state constitution. The state Supreme Court earlier this month ordered the proposal to be added to the ballot after the state elections board deadlocked over whether to allow the initiative. Meanwhile, Kentucky voters will answer a similar question to the one posed in Kansas earlier this year: whether to amend the state constitution to make clear there are no protections for abortion rights in the Commonwealth. Likewise, in Montana, voters will decide on a ballot measure providing personhood protections to infants born alive after attempted abortions. Marijuana policy At least five states will give voters a say in November on whether to legalize recreational marijuana for residents 21 or older. Story continues Among those states are Arkansas, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. While the details of the ballot questions differ in each state, the measures could mark a sweeping expansion of marijuana in deep-red territory. At the same time, Maryland state lawmakers voted to throw the issue of marijuana legalization to voters. Advocates had hoped to put a similar question on the ballot in Oklahoma, but the state Supreme Court rejected that effort last week, saying that voters would have to wait until either the next general election or a special election to decide the matter. Meanwhile, voters in Colorado, where marijuana is already legal, will decide whether to define certain psychedelic plants and fungi as natural medicine a move that would pave the way for adults over the age of 21 to grow, possess, use and transport certain psychedelics. Election reform Nevada could move a step closer to joining Maine and Alaska on the list of states that use ranked-choice voting if residents approve a ballot measure, known as Question 3, this fall. The ballot measure also asks voters whether they want to implement an open primary system, in which all candidates would appear on the same primary ballot. The top-five vote-getters would then advance to the general election. In order for the proposal to go into effect, however, voters will have to approve it both this year and again in 2024. Another ballot question in Connecticut asks voters whether the state should allow no-excuse early voting. The Nutmeg State is currently one of five states without some form of early voting. Nebraska voters, meanwhile, will consider whether to add a voter ID requirement to the state constitution, while Arizona voters will be asked about several proposed changes to the voter ID and mail-in ballot policies. One of those changes would require voters to include their date of birth and voter ID number for mail-in ballots. Another would require people voting in person to show a photo ID, doing away with a policy that allows voters to show two other forms of non-photo identification instead of a photo ID. Climate change and the environment Faced by worsening climate change-related disasters such as droughts and wildfires, California voters will decide in November whether to increase taxes on personal income above $2 million a year to fund wildfire prevention programs and infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles, like electric vehicle charging stations. The tax hike would be relatively small only about 1.75 percent. But the state legislative analysts office estimates that the increase alone would bring in between $3.5 billion and $5 billion annually, and that amount would grow over time. On the other coast, in New York, voters are being asked to allow the state to borrow $4.2 billion through the issuance of bonds to fund certain environmental projects and policy efforts. The largest tranche of that money $1.5 billion would go to climate change mitigation efforts, including land conservation and renewable energy projects, while hundreds of millions of dollars would go toward things like improving stormwater systems and zero-emission school buses. Slavery While the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery and involuntary servitude when it was ratified 1865, it carved out an exception that allows the practice as a punishment for a crime. Even now, nearly 160 years later, 20 state constitutions include language allowing it as a punishment for a crime or repayment of debt. In November, voters in five states Alabama, Louisiana, Oregon, Tennessee and Vermont will decide whether to do away with the practice. While most of the ballot questions simply seek to declare that slavery and involuntary servitude in any form are not permitted, other measures go further. In Alabama, the proposal would remove all racist language from the state constitution. If approved, the ballot measures could have major impacts for criminal justice reform. Incarcerated individuals could receive higher wages for prison work or prison labor could be done away with entirely. It wouldnt be the first time that voters moved to repeal language allowing slavery and involuntary servitude from their state constitutions. In 2018, similar measures passed in Colorado, Utah and Nebraska. And 2022 wont likely be the last time such questions are put on ballots. Voters in several other states, including Florida and Texas, could consider similar measures in future elections. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The widow of murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi has called on Americas top US intelligence official to help retrieve his cellphone to see if it was infected with spyware a bid to uncover more details about his killing. Four years after Khashoggi was killed in an operation carried out by Saudi agents inside a consulate in Turkey, Hanan Hanan El-Atr Khashoggi, has written to Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence, asking for her help in recovering his devices two mobile telephones, one laptop and one tablet. She says these are in the possession of the Turkish authorities and that they ought to be returned to her as his widow. Before his death, Khashoggi, 59, had apparently become engaged to a Turkish student, Hatice Cengiz, and he was killed after going to the consulate in Istanbul to get a visa to allow him to travel to Saudi Arabia. Thank you for declassifying the critical report which led to a very painful understanding of what happened to my husband, Ms Elatr Khashoggi writes in the letter, seen by The Independent. While I am immensely grateful for all that you and President Biden have done thus far, I believe there is more that can be done to hold all parties accountable for my husbands murder. She says she hopes the US can help her recover the devices. The government of Turkey is still in possession of his devices and must turn them over to me, Jamals only wife upon his death. I have the right to receive all of his possessions, particularly now as I am embarking on legal action in the United States against all parties responsible for my husbands murder, she adds. I believe those devices will reveal previously undisclosed details about my husbands murder that are critical to knowing the full truth. In the aftermath of Khashoggis murder, a report by US intelligence found that Saudi Arabias powerful crown prince, Mohammed Bin Salman, known as MBS, had ordered the operation to kill the journalist, who had become a critic of the kingdom. Story continues Saudi Arabia has always denied the claim, saying that the killing was undertaken by rogue agents. Action against those individuals has been transferred to Saudi Arabia from Turkey. It also emerged that after the murder, the cell phones of both Ms El-Atr Khashoggi and Ms Cengiz had been infected with spyware produced by the Israeli-based company NSO, according to the letter. Last year, I was informed by Amnesty International, Citizen Lab, and the Washington Post that my devices had evidence of NSOs spyware Pegasus dating back to 2017, when Jamal and I were in constant contact, she writes. Further examination of my devices not only showed tracking by NSOs spyware, but also evidence that another spyware, Cellebrite, was implanted on my devices by intelligence authorities in the United Arab Emirates. NSO Group has repeatedly rejected the claims that its software had been used in the case. The UAE has also denied any wrongdoing. Previously it has said: As NSO has previously stated, our technology was not associated in any way with the heinous murder of Jamal Khashoggi or any of his family members, including Hanan El-Atr. Publishing these false statements is defamatory and wont change the reality. There was no immediate response from the NSO Group, or from the Saudi Embassy in Washington DC. Ms Hainess office also did not immediately respond to a question. The Turkeys Embassy in Washington DC did not answer a question about Khashoggis phones. In his campaign for the presidency, Mr Biden denounced Saudi Arabia and said it should be made a pariah nation. As it was, no major sanctions were imposed on Riyadh, and the military and strategic relationship has been rebuilt. In July, Mr Biden was criticised for going ahead with a meeting with MBS and other top Saudi officials. Mr Biden fist bumped the crown prince as he arrived for talks aimed at repairing their relationship. In her letter, Ms El-Atr Khashoggi says: I want all parties to be held accountable for my husbands death, including the governments of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the NSO Group. I sincerely hope you might be able to assist me. Kim Davis In a ruling handed down Thursday, a federal appeals court found that Kim Davis, the former county clerk from Kentucky who refused marriage licenses to same-sex couples after marriage equality became law with the Supreme Court's ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, did not have qualified immunity. Consequently, the panel ruled that two couples could sue her personally, the Lexington Herald-Leader reports. According to Thursday's U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling, Davis violated both couples' constitutional right to wed. The court ruled that Davis violated the rights of David Ermold and David Moore as well as James Yates and Will Smith by refusing to issue them marriage licenses because she believed same-sex marriage is immoral. This latest development is part of an ongoing case that has gained national attention. In March, a judge had ruled that Davis had violated the couples' rights, which the former clerk then appealed. After the Supreme Court affirmed marriage equality in 2015, Davis told her office to cease issuing marriage licenses to avoid serving gay couples. According to Davis, marriage should be between a man and a woman. She believes it would violate her beliefs and rights to issue a marriage license to a queer couple. When Yates and Smith sought a license, she turned them away five times. Ermold and Moore were denied a license three times by Davis. On their last attempt, Davis said she could not provide them with a license "under God's authority," according to court records. After a judge ordered Davis imprisoned for contempt of court for violating a court order, the deputy clerk issued licenses for the couples while Davis was in jail. A jury will decide whether Davis will also have to pay for the seven years' legal fees incurred by the two couples who sued her. Finally, a jury will determine Davis's liability, which is unknown but likely to total hundreds of thousands of dollars. Kim Kardashians son, Saint West, has sparked a debate about privacy, after he was seemingly spotted flipping off a fan who was filming him. In a recent video posted to TikTok, a user who goes by the name @sxchaz documented how he saw Saint in a hotel room in Paris. Over the weekend, Kardashian took a trip to France with the six-year-old and his siblings-North, nine, Chicago, four, and Psalm, three-whom she shares with ex husband Kanye West, for Paris Fashion Week. At the start of the clip, @sxchaz shared an image of himself posing for the camera, writing in the caption (which was translated from French to English via Google Translate): I was taking a picture quietly in Paris when suddenly. Kim Kardasians children [say] f*** [you] at the window, the text continued. The TikToker proceeded to show a video of the Kardashian family that was filmed from the street outside of their hotel window. The footage appeared to feature the three children in their room with Saint seemingly holding up his two middle fingers towards the camera. As of 3 October, the clip has more than 4.7m views, with some TikTok users in the comments calling Saints gesture an iconic moment. Other viewers have questioned @sxchaz about why he was trying to film the three children. But also why so much media coverage, I do not understand you have things to prove, one wrote. People criticise too much, another added. They are children huh. A third person said: You spy on them. They are at home. They do what they want. Saints behaviour also sparked criticism from viewers, with one claiming that the children were too rude and didnt realise how lucky they are. This wasnt the first time that Kardashians children have confronted people filming them. While in Paris for fashion week in July, Kardashian and her family had dinner at Fedi. As they left the restaurant, they were approached by a group of paparazzi wanting to take their photo and North asked the photographers: Why do you have to wait for us all the time? Story continues That same month, Kardashian also shared a video of North at the Jean Paul Gaultier fashion show holding up a sign that said Stop, in order to tell photographers not to take photos of her. Kardashian addressed how funny her daughters sign was in an Instagram post, writing: North I guess had it with the people taking pictures of her so she wrote on her invite STOP and held it up and wanted them to just focus on the show. The Independent has contacted a representative for Kardashian for comment. King Charles III could be changing royal titles of a few family members now that he is at the helm of the monarchy following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last month at the age of 96. Her Majesty, born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary, was the longest-reigning monarch in British history having served the United Kingdom and 14 other commonwealth countries for 70 years until she died on Sept. 8. She had four children with the late Prince Philip Mountbatten, including the new King Charles, Prince Edward, Princess Anne and disgraced Prince Andrew. The Duke of York is now eighth in line to the throne, but his controversial friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, along with allegations of sexual assault, forced the Palace to strip Andrew of his military affiliations and royal patronages in January 2022. King Charles may continue removing any trace of the affiliation to the dynasty after the prince "embarrassed" the family with his actions. "Unfortunately for Princesses Eugene and Beatrice, their fathers conduct has had rather an adverse and actually disastrous impact on their royal futures," royal expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital. PRINCE ANDREW'S CONTROVERSIAL FRIENDSHIP WITH JEFFREY EPSTEIN TO BE EXPLORED IN NEW DOC BANISHED Princess Beatrice (left) and Princess Eugenie may lose their royal titles for their father, Prince Andrew's actions. The women were seen at Queen Elizabeth's funeral in September. Chris Jackson "The Princesses are most likely to become Lady Beatrice and Lady Eugenie since their father, Prince Andrew's, sexual assault scandal has purportedly poured ruin on their chances of becoming working royals." Beatrice, 34, and Eugenie, 32, are the daughters of Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. The couple endured a highly-publicized divorce in 1996, but have remained relatively friendly through the years. MEGHAN MARKLE AND PRINCE HARRY ARE WORRIED OF BEING ICED OUT FROM THE ROYAL FAMILY AMID DEMOTION: EXPERT "Retaining their titles is highly dubious because the decision, regarding their titles, is to be made by and with the new reign of their uncle, King Charles III," Fordwich said. "Now, with King Charles III making British monarchy decisions Charles is predicted to be making the use of titles more restrictive." Story continues Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie could receive "Lady" titles after their father's past discretions. Patrick van Katwijk Prince Andrew was stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages in 2022. He attending the Queen's royal birthday celebration with Eugenie (middle) and Beatrice (right) in 2016. Justin Tallis/AFP She added, "It wasnt just their fathers conduct, but he knowingly and willingly embarrassed the entire royal family with not only his friendships, but by also agreeing to his diabolical 'Newsnight' interview. His refusal to help the FBI with their investigation into the aforementioned served to compound all his other errors of judgment." In 2019, Andrew spoke for the first time and attempted to address his relationship with Epstein and the allegations against he had sexually assaulted a then 17-year-old Virginia Giuffre in what turned out to be a disastrous interview with the BBC. ROYAL DEMOTION: PRINCE HARRY, MEGHAN MARKLE KNOCKED TO BOTTOM OF TOTEM POLE ON OFFICIAL FAMILY WEBSITE Just days later, following intense public scrutiny, the Duke of York announced he was stepping away from his public responsibilities "for the foreseeable future." Prince Charles became King Charles III following the Queen's death in September, and may be keen to remove Prince Andrew's children's royal titles. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images "We know that Prince Andrew certainly went to the mat for his daughters to retain their titles and of course to also retain all the trappings of royal life despite not being full-time working royals," Fordwich said. "This went back and was during the reign of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. "There was indeed, and continues to be, speculation as to the co-conspirators regarding titles, from when Princess Eugenie, visited Prince Harry (her ousted cousin) in California back in February, where they made a highly publicized visit to attend the Super Bowl." Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle departed from senior royal duties and moved to the United States in 2020 due to what they described as the British media's intrusion and racist demeanor toward their family. "King Charles III certainly doesnt have the same soft spot his mother did for his wayward brother," Fordwich added. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson were married for 10 years and divorced in 1996. They stood on the Buckingham Palace balcony in 1986 for the Queen's 60th birthday. Tim Graham Andrew, who was stripped of his royal titles and patronages in 2022, was also banned from using the "HRH" titles. Peacock announced "Prince Andrew: Banished" will explore the "tumultuous and complex" life of the British royal, as well as his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in a new documentary series set for an Oct. 5 release. Palace insiders, journalists, a royal press secretary, members of Andrews social circle and the legal team who brought shocking allegations against the fallen prince to life were interviewed to create the film. "When you are the queens son, no one ever tells you the truth," Tina Brown, magazine editor and author of "The Palace Papers," said in the trailer. "Prince Andrew thought he was more than a royal," said another reporter. "He thought he was a celebrity. The talk of the dinner parties was he couldnt keep his trousers closed." King Charles III and Camilla, queen consort arrive in Dunfermline, Scotland Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty Images King Charles III participated in his first public engagement on Monday since the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Charles visited Scotland, along with his wife, queen consort Camilla, following the end of the royal mourning period. The Associated Press reported that hundreds of people turned out in the Scottish town of Dunfermline to get a glimpse of the new British monarch. Charles and Camilla reportedly spent time greeting well-wishers, and also had a meeting with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. The visit to the ancient village served to formally give city status to Dunfermline, which AP noted was also the birthplace of another similarly named royal Charles I, the last British monarch from Scotland, who was born in Dunfermline in 1600. "We gather to celebrate this great occasion but also to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty, whose deep love for Scotland was one of the foundations of her life," said Charles, who acceded to the throne on Sept. 8 upon his mother's death. "There could be no more fitting way to mark my beloved mother's extraordinary life of service than by granting this honor to a place made famous by its own long and distinguished history." Following the visit to Dunfermline, the royal couple will head to the Scottish capital of Edinburgh to host a reception. According to BBC News, Charles will also host his first state visit next month for the South African president. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing Ukrainian troops take full control of Lyman while Russian media ramps up recriminations King Charles III visited Scotland on Monday for his first engagement since the end of the royal mourning period of Queen Elizabeth II. King Charles was joined by Queen Consort Camilla for the visit. The couple arrived in Dunfermline to formally give status to the city. The city won status amid Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. "There could be no more fitting way to mark my beloved mothers extraordinary life of service than by granting this honor to a place made famous by its own long and distinguished history, and by the indispensable role it has played in the life of our country," Charles said in a speech. King Charles III participated in his first engagement as king since Queen Elizabeth II's royal mourning period ended. Photo by Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty Images King Charles III and Camilla, queen consort, leave Dunfermline Abbey after attending a meeting at the City Chambers in Dunfermline where the King formally marked the conferral of city status on the former town. Photo by Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty Images KING CHARLES III MAY REMOVE PRINCESS BEATRICE AND PRINCESS EUGENIE'S ROYAL TITLES DUE TO PRINCE ANDREW: ROYAL EXPERT "We gather to celebrate this great occasion but also to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty, whose deep love for Scotland was one of the foundations of her life," he added. Hundreds turned out on the streets of Dunfermline in Fife, north of Edinburgh, hoping to get a glimpse of the new monarch. Charles, who wore a kilt for the visit, spent time shaking hands with well-wishers after greeting Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and other leaders. King Charles III has also canceled a trip to Egypt next month. His Royal Highness was set to attend an international climate change summit. The Sunday Times newspaper reported that the decision came after conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss objected to Charles attending the conference, known as COP27, when she met with the king last month at Buckingham Palace. King Charles III and Camilla, queen consort, visit Dunfermline Abbey, to mark its 950th anniversary. Photo by Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty Images King Charles III greets members of the public after an official council meeting. Photo by Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty Images CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER However, a member of the cabinet insisted the government and palace were in agreement about the cancelation. "That is a decision that has been made amicably, as far as I am aware, between the palace and the government,'' Simon Clarke told Times Radio. "The suggestions this morning that he was ordered to stay away are simply not true." Story continues The decision not to attend the climate summit has many speculating if Charles will pull back on his climate activism after ascending to the British throne. King Charles III automatically ascended to the throne on September 8 after Queen Elizabeth II died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The queen's death certificate, which was released to the public on September 29, listed Her Majesty's cause of death as "old age." During his first speech as the new Monarch, King Charles III acknowledged his new role. "My life will, of course, change as I take up my new responsibilities, Charles said in the address. "It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others." Britain's King Charles III, wearing a kilt, and Britain's Camilla, queen consort, walk to meet members of the public after leaving from City Chambers to Dunfermline Abbey in Dunfermline. Photo by NEIL HANNA/AFP via Getty Images The Associated Press contributed to this report. KenTheMan is one of the many rising stars who will be spotlighted at the 2022 BET Hip Hop Awards, which will air on Tuesday, Oct. 4. In fact, KenTheMan, real name Kentavia Miller, will get the chance to show off her skills in the form of a digital-exclusive cypher alongside Armani Caesar, Nana, Navelle Hice, OT The Real and Yung Pooda, according to a BET press release. Ahead of the world viewing her digital cypher, many want to know: Who is KenTheMan? Lets go over 10 things that everyone should know about the budding female rap star. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KENTHEMAN (@imkentheman) KenTheMan is from Texas KenTheMans story began in Texas back in 1994. Specifically, the 28-year-old hails from Houston, TX, aka H-Town, the city responsible for the likes of greats such as Beyonce, Debbie Allen, Megan Thee Stallion, and more. KenTheMan describes herself as a Northside baby, according to the Houston Chronicle. She attended Westfield, Dekaney and Eisenhower high schools in Houston, and as far as where she plans to plant her roots when she makes it big, Ken says Houston will forever be home. They always ask me, where do you think you will move? And I always say, I think Im going to get my house here and then travel,' she tells Okayplayer. I just like that its kind of low-key. Its not a low-key place like nightlife, but Im saying living, its real chill. Big fucking Houston in this bitch pic.twitter.com/o0zO0jHfxb Daddy Ken (@imkentheman) November 26, 2020 She created her rap name "by accident" As for her killer stage name, KenTheMan wasnt exactly the rappers first choice. I came up with my name by accident actually, since Ken wasnt available on SoundCloud. I added my usual ego at the end not thinking it would stick, she told the New Music Houston Outlet. My friends and associates told me to keep it because it fits and its something that would always keep conversations, so here I am living up to it! Story continues She further explained her name to the Houston Chronicle, noting, I just typed it in on SoundCloud. Then, people started telling me when I rap that I have this dominance in the booth, this aggression that a man would normally have. I really do feel like my alter ego is a masculine force. I talk about girl stuff, but its in a way that a guy would express it. So, it all worked out in the end, as KenTheMan feels like her name fits her overall vibe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KENTHEMAN (@imkentheman) She began dropping music as a way to diss her ex-boyfriend While KenTheMan started rapping back in high school as a fun pastime, she began to actually drop tracks after she was done dirty by an ex-boyfriend. We would freestyle in the car. One day when he was in the studio, I ended up writing a verse. And it sucked, of course. I didnt know how to record or anything, she told the Houston Chronicle. Then, he broke my heart. So I made a real song, and I dissed him. I was so taken back by how he did me, she added, according to Vice. He made me into a rapper. As she turned her heartbreak into a game-changing remix of Chiraq, its safe to say that KenTheMan got the last laugh in the end! KenTheMan dropped out of college to pursue music Upon finishing up high school, KenTheMan tried out college, but she ultimately chose to prioritize a career in music instead. After high school I dropped out of college, twice. I actually went to college the second time to get more experience in music, thinking maybe being uncomfortable would bring out more in my music. That didnt work out the way I planned, so I figured that I would just see where music could take me, she said, according to the New Houston Music Chronicle. She notably had an agreement with her dad that if she didnt make it in the rap game in a couple of years, she would go back to school, XXL reports. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KENTHEMAN (@imkentheman) Her breakout hit was penned while DoorDashing Thankfully, Ken had her big break on the heels of a poppin track called He Be Like, and the story behind this track is pretty iconic. I got [a DoorDash] job so I could write in the car. I would get home from my waitressing job at 2, 3 in the morning and be tired. I was like, I need something where I can write,' she recalled, the Houston Chronicle reports. I literally wrote [He Be Like] while I was Door Dashing in a nice neighborhood. She went on to build off of this success and deliver projects like Whats My Name, No Panties and Join Em. She's a XXL Freshman Shortly following the takeoff of her rap career, KenTheMan was honored with a major accomplishment: being named a XXL Freshman. She was specifically part of the publications 2022 Freshman Class alongside other stars like Nardo Wick, Doechii, Kali and Saucy Santana. She has been influenced by some of the greats While speaking on this artists career, we have to acknowledge some of the rappers who she drew inspiration from. Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Tupac, Eminem, she said when asked about who she grew up listening to, according to XXL. I kinda explored on my own and discovered the artists that I fell in love with. Lil Wayne [was my favorite]. Hes very intelligent, his wordplay. The metaphors [are] what really stuck to me. His mind crazy. I was really drawn to the fact that this man could really think of anything, and put it to a rhythm, she added of Lil Wayne, noting that bumping his music has helped drag her out of writers block. KenTheMan Reveals Why Her Favorite Rapper Is Lil Wayne & How He Has Influenced Her https://t.co/mt4U1SxLXI pic.twitter.com/P8IBb2Hoqq Lil Wayne HQ (@lilwaynehq_2) September 16, 2020 KenTheMan also further elaborated on how Nicki Minaj impacted her, noting that the Did It Onem artist helped her really commit to rapping. She woke up something in me. I just started speaking and manifesting, I really want to rap,' she said, the Houston Chronicle reports. I was trying to find myself. I found myself in music. I was a Nicki girl. I grew up on Nicki Minaj, KenTheMan told Power 105.1. She has an affinity for pop music Aside from rap, KenTheMan is also known for being a total pop stan. Ill never get on the aux because Ill put on some pop music, and people will be like, What the f**k is this,' KenTheMan shared during a 2020 interview with Vice. I dont think Id ever cross over fully, but I do want to bring pop into hip-hop. No matter what I get on, Im gon always be grimy. Im gon always be ratchet, she proclaimed. As for who some of her pop favs are, the outlet reports that she loves Ke$ha and Paramore. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KENTHEMAN (@imkentheman) She's a straight-up homebody While her music may lead one to believe that KenTheMan keeps it poppin all the time, she prefers to just chill and recharge rather than party it up. I be in the house all the time, I guess. Im so boring. I like watching TV and reading books. Im glued to these books. I really love the house, she shared, XXL reports. Its so funny, every time that Im at an appearance or something, they [will say], What you doing next? [And Ill respond,] Im going home! Im boring. I be going to the house. Im boring when Im there, KenTheMan added. She further spoke on her love of just chillin at home during her sit-down with the Houston Chronicle. Laying in the bed watching TV. That is my happiness, even when Im on vacation. I cant wait to get home to get in my real bed. Im so boring. People would never get that from my music, she told the outlet. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KENTHEMAN (@imkentheman) She has a son Finally, we have to acknowledge that on top of being a rap star KenTheMan is a mother, too. During a recent sit-down with Blavity, she spoke on an important life lesson that she hopes to impart on her 9-year-old son. I would just tell him to keep trying different things until you find something that youre in love with because it makes your life easier when you actually like what youre doing, she shared, noting that she personally struggled to find something that she felt passionate about back when she was younger. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KENTHEMAN (@imkentheman) Shoutout to KenTheMan, and we look forward to seeing what else she accomplishes (and learning more about her)! In this bystander's photo from Sept. 21, 2022, people protest in downtown Tehran, Iran, over the death of Mahsa Amini, 22, a woman who was detained by the morality police. (AP) When authoritarian regimes strip away the humanity of their own people, blowback invariably follows. That is now happening in both Iran and Russia, where the autocrats in charge are seeing firsthand their nations boiling points reached, both on the streets and in the minds of infuriated citizens. In Iran, fiery demonstrations against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have persisted for days, ignited by the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman arrested by the countrys morality police for violating the requirement that women wear a hijab. She died while in custody. Authorities say she died of a heart attack, but many Iranians are deeply skeptical of that claim. Advertisement The protests, Irans largest since 2009, fanned out to as many as 80 cities. Iranian authorities responded with a brutal crackdown that killed at least 50 people. In several cities, police opened fire on crowds. To the north in Russia, indifference toward President Vladimir Putins illegal invasion of Ukraine has exploded into anger, fear and defiance now that Putin has in essence instituted a draft of able-bodied men to help counteract his long queue of battlefield failures. Protests in cities across Russia have continued despite crackdowns, and tens of thousands of men are fleeing the country either by air or car to neighboring former Soviet republics, including Kazakhstan and Georgia. Advertisement Both Iran and Russia are afflicted with the same cancer despotic leaders whose unchecked power and brutality are the result of removing from their societies any space for political opposition and free expression, either from the media or by everyday citizens. Though Amini became the flashpoint for widespread protests, tension had been building up for months among young Iranians increasingly frustrated with President Ebrahim Raisis crackdown on women. Raisi, a hard-liner, was Khameneis hand-picked successor to Hassan Rouhani, Irans former president whose more liberal approach toward Iranian society wasnt embraced by Khamenei. Khamenei is now learning that young Iranians have a breaking point. During street protests, theyve been shouting, Death to the dictator! and Life, liberty and women! Women have been casting off their hijabs, and crowds have called for an end to the Islamic regimes rule while at the same time facing down its truncheons, tear gas and bullets. Russians, meanwhile, largely had tuned out the conflict in Ukraine before Putins de facto national call-up, a desperate bid to regain momentum in a war that has become the most humiliating and perilous chapter in his long rule over Russia. Putins labeling of the draft as a partial mobilization is a sham, as fabricated as the referendums that led to Russias illegal annexation of four regions in eastern Ukraine Friday. Now, however, Russians can no longer ignore the war. It has been thrust into their homes, with tens of thousands of men being ushered onto buses that will take them to the Donbas to become cannon fodder, and tens of thousands more escaping their homeland. The Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta recently reported that as many as 261,000 men have fled. Anti-war protests have broken out across Russia, from St. Petersburg and Moscow to the far eastern city of Khabarovsk. The decision to demonstrate isnt made lightly. Apart from the brutal means Russian riot police use to put down protests, demonstrators risk being sentenced to as many as 15 years in prison. Authorities have found another crafty way to dissuade demonstrations at protests theyve been detaining men and handing them draft summons, a punishment arguably even worse than jail. Many Russians remain defiant. A video that appeared in social media featured an anti-draft demonstrator helping to block a federal highway in the southern Russian province of Dagestan earlier this month. When we fought (in World War II), that was war. And now its not war, its politics!, he shouted, according to the Moscow Times. In the Siberian city of Tomsk, a man stopped traffic in the streets and screamed, A peaceful life for our children! the New York Times reported, adding that within minutes he was arrested. Advertisement To keep protests in both Iran and Russia fervent and unyielding, one voice needs to grow even louder. That of President Joe Biden. Biden has indeed expressed sympathy for the plight of citizens in both countries. He told the U.N. General Assembly on Sept. 21 that the U.S. backed the brave citizens and brave women of Iran, who right now are demonstrating to secure their basic rights. In the same U.N. speech, Biden rebuked Putins partial mobilization announcement, saying the Russian leader had violated the core tenets of the United Nations charter. Given the sacrifice and courage that protesters in both Iran and Russia have demonstrated, Biden should say much more. He can remind the world that the U.S. stands in solidarity with Iranians and Russians who defy the coarse brutality that their leaders consistently inflict upon their own people. And he can promise the globe that the U.S. will never forsake its responsibility to uphold human rights, no matter how much bombast and venom leaders like Khamenei and Putin spew. The leaders of Iran and Russia maintain a grip on their respective societies not because their people adore them, or because their people consistently elect them back into office, but simply because they hold their populaces hostage through force and fear. In both countries, however, everyday citizens are showing they can only take so much. It may not be the kind of patriotism Khamenei and Putin desired, but its patriotism nonetheless the patriotism of protest. Join the discussion on Twitter @chitribopinions and on Facebook. Advertisement Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. The trial against Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes and four of his associates began on Monday as the Department of Justice (DOJ) seeks to convict them on the rarely used charge of seditious conspiracy in a Washington, D.C., court. In opening statements, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Nestler told jurors that Rhodes and the Oath Keepers sought to capitalize on the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Their goal was to stop by whatever means necessary the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by taking up arms against the United States government, the attorney said, according to The Associated Press. They concocted a plan for armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy. Heres what to know about the high-stakes trial, which could last several weeks. Rhodes, four other leaders are charged Rhodes, 56, from Granbury, Texas, is a former U.S. Army paratrooper who attended Yale Law School and volunteered on Republican political campaigns before 2009, when he founded the Oath Keepers, a far-right anti-government militia group. Members of the Oath Keepers joined other supporters of former President Trump who stormed the Capitol in a bid to stop the certification of the 2020 election, the DOJ said in charging documents earlier this year. The House select committee investigating Jan. 6 revealed over the summer that Rhodes held a secret meeting with Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio in a parking garage the night before the Capitol riots. Rhodes is also accused of leading Oath Keepers members onto the Capitol grounds and directing followers to meet him in the restricted area. Eleven Oath Keepers face seditious conspiracy charges, but on trial this week, in addition to Rhodes, are Kelly Meggs, the leader of the Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers; Kenneth Harrelson, who assisted Meggs; Thomas Caldwell, a retired U.S. Navy intelligence officer from Virginia; and Jessica Watkins, the leader of a militia group from Ohio. Story continues Harrelson, Meggs and Watkins are among the Oath Keepers who led a stack formation up the Capitol steps and into the building on Jan. 6, according to the DOJ charges. Seditious conspiracy charge is rooted in months of alleged planning While more than 900 rioters have been charged and hundreds convicted in the Capitol attacks, the DOJ is attempting to convict defendants of a seditious conspiracy charge for the first time in three decades. A seditious conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The last time the DOJ secured a seditious conspiracy conviction was in 1995, when Egyptian cleric Omar Abdel-Rahman was convicted on the charge for his role in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. The DOJ alleges Rhodes began planning to stop the certification of the presidential election in December 2020. According to charging documents, on Nov. 5, 2020, two days after the presidential election, Rhodes sent a message to followers on Signal that we arent getting through this without a civil war. On Nov. 9, the DOJ alleges Rhodes held a conference call with leaders to discuss stopping the presidential transfer of power. Communications and messaging between leaders including Meggs, Watkins and Harrelson involving the use of force to stop Bidens certification continued through early January, the DOJ says. Watkins and Meggs allegedly helped coordinate separate teams, weapons and equipment, while Caldwell organized a base of operations for the Oath Keepers at a hotel Arlington, Va., where the DOJ says the group stashed firearms. Rhodes also spent $7,000 on night-vision equipment and weapon sights and $5,000 on firearms, equipment and ammunition, including a shotgun, according to charging documents. After the Capitol rioters dispersed, Rhodes and other leaders continued to meet, discussing how they could keep fighting to stop the transfer of power, the Department of Justice says, and Rhodes continued to purchase equipment. Patriots entering their own Capitol to send a message to the traitors is NOTHING compared to whats coming, Rhodes allegedly wrote on Signal on Jan. 6, 2021, according to the DOJ. Rhodes is relying on tough defense case Rhodes is expected to argue that on Jan. 6, he and the Oath Keepers were awaiting Trump to invoke the Insurrection Act, an 1807 law that authorizes the president to call up an armed militia or the military to quell a domestic rebellion. The defense will assert that Rhodes cannot be found guilty of seditious conspiracy because the actions he took were in preparation for Trumps invocation of the law, although the orders never came. James Lee Bright, an attorney for Rhodes, told The Associated Press the legal defense is an incredibly complicated defense of theory. I dont think that its ever played out in this fashion in American jurisprudence, he said. The defense team faces a high hurdle, as it will have to prove to the jury that Rhodes and the Oath Keepers were there to defend the government and not overthrow it. The last time the Insurrection Act was used was in 1992, when former President George H.W. Bush invoked it amid deadly rioting in Los Angeles. The defense team will have to prove why the defendants believed the act was going to be invoked while addressing the DOJ documents showing the Oath Keepers planned for violence to stop the certification of the 2020 election. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON L3Harris Technologies agreed to buy Viasats tactical data link business for roughly $1.96 billion, a move officials with the defense and IT company say will extend its reach into the Pentagons ambitious communications overhaul known as Joint All-Domain Command and Control. The prospective acquisition, announced Oct. 3 as financial markets opened, consists of Link 16 Multifunctional Information Distribution System platforms, their associated terminals, which are installed in tens of thousands of U.S. and allied systems worldwide, and space assets. Link 16 is a secure, jam-resistant and high-speed line of communication used across domains and by international players including NATO. This acquisition is part of our strategic effort to ensure operators have access to the most advanced, multi-function Joint All-Domain Command and Control solutions available, said L3Harris CEO and Chairman Christopher Kubasik. Viasats TDL product line naturally aligns with our proven communication capabilities, and we are excited to partner with our customers and coalition allies as we modernize the Link 16 enterprise. JADC2 represents the Defense Departments vision of a seamlessly connected military, one where information flows across land, air, sea, space and cyber and where coordination with foreign partners is more effective than ever. The Army, Navy and Air Force have their own contributions to JADC2: Project Convergence, Project Overmatch and the Advanced Battle Management System, respectively. L3Harris in mid-September was named to the ABMS Digital Infrastructure Consortium alongside four other companies. The league is meant to accelerate development of ABMS, a next-generation command and control method. Weve been spending a lot of time listening to our customers, obviously, about the importance of JADC2 and the necessity to combine and integrate these different domains, Kubasik told C4ISRNET. Link 16, I think, is a key part of that, and positions us well for the future. Story continues US Air Force picks 5 companies to take on battle management challenges Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall considers the realization of ABMS an operational imperative an effort marked by intense focus and investment, seen as necessary to beat China in a potential conflict. Kendall earlier this year said the service was working on Link 16 modernization, after lawmakers raised concerns about delays. Language included in a draft of the annual defense bill directed the Government Accountability Office, a watchdog, to review the status of the cryptographic upgrade, identify challenges it still faces and find ways to speed schedules. As weve gone through the last 20 years of being focused on counterterrorism, counterinsurgency campaigns where there wasnt a sophisticated threat to our data links, thats been neglected, quite frankly, Kendall said April 27. Radios need to be bought and replaced in order to support the modernization, which takes time, he added. The pending sale is expected to net Viasat some $1.8 billion, after taxes and other fees. The data link business, part of satellite giant Viasats Government Systems division, generated approximately $400 million in yearly revenue. Link 16 accounts for one-third of Viasats government business. L3Harris was the No. 10 largest defense contractor by revenue in the latest Defense News rankings. Viasat was No. 73. Kubasik told C4ISRNET the deal, expected to close in the first half of 2023, will drive competitiveness among the defense industrial base. Were trying to become the sixth prime, to allow for more competition. I think for us, to continue to grow and be a player with the Department of Defense, we have to focus on organic growth and inorganic growth, Kubasik said. I believe this acquisition creates competition, and I think additional acquisitions will create more competition. When Daniella Benitez helped build her first home for a family in Tijuana, Mexico in 2017, at a mere 12 years old the San Diego tween knew it wouldnt be her last. At the time, the now 18-year-old told her mom that she wanted to not only build another home for a family in Tijuana through the nonprofit organization Build a Miracle she wanted to raise all the money for it too. Prep your skin like a pro for a flawless makeup application: And while the $16,000 needed to build a home was substantially less than many down payments on homes in California, it represented its own miracle to a preteen without a cellphone or a job. Using her moms mobile phone, Benitez texted 16 of our closest family and friends and asked if theyd be willing to donate $1,000 each so that we [could] put it together and build a house. By the end of that summer, with some added funds from babysitting and a lemonade stand, Benitez had secured all the money she needed to help another family live more comfortably. Honestly, the second we got there, the energy felt so good, Benitez told In The Know by Yahoo about going to Tijuana. Being with the family and watching them talk about their lives and then getting to watch them walk into their home, that whole experience kind of just opened my eyes and made me realize that theres so much going on outside my bubble. It all started with that first house, which she learned about when Build a Miracle (BAM) came to Benitezs school. The organization, founded by Julianne and Chris North, and its volunteers have built more than 400 homes in Tijuana since BAMs founding in 2001. I get tears in my eyes just thinking about Daniella and her passion for making the world a better place, Julianne told In The Know in a statement. We build three-bedroom homes with indoor kitchens and bathrooms and provide education and economic opportunities for families living in poverty in Mexico, Julianne continued. [Eighteen] of those homes have been built solely because of Daniellas passion and her desire to care for those in need which has led to almost $300,000 in donations. Story continues A connection to her Latinx culture Besides the motivation to help those in need, the Latina teen also feels a deep cultural connection to the families in Tijuana. I consider my BAM community in Tijuana as my other family,' Benitez shared. With my dad [having] grown up in Puebla, Mexico, it makes me feel so good to find a way to help other people from Mexico, too. I feel a very strong connection with the Latino community and am committed to always being a part of the family I have created down in Tijuana. Daniellas mom, GG Benitez, CEO of GG Benitez & Associates, PR, echoes Juliannes pride in her daughters work work that Daniella has also inspired her 16-year-old brother, Gabriel, to join. Every time she goes down to build another home, the previous donor families show up, hugging, crying, kissing her, and they refer to her as their little mama and their angel,' GG told In The Know via email. As a parent, there is nothing more heart warming than seeing my daughter come off of the BAM bus, and having dozens of kids and their parents run up to her with tears thanking her for not forgetting them. She doesnt just raise the money, build and move on; she maintains an inspirational role in those young kids lives. As Daniella starts her college journey this year in Chicago, some of the kids shes met in Tijuana are beginning theirs as well. Because theyve stayed in touch, the teens have been able to share their experiences beyond their time with BAM. We all have the same basic desires, but some of us were just born into different opportunities, Daniella shared. I hope with the little work my teams and I are doing, that we are helping them to have some of the opportunities I am lucky to have, and create different futures for their own families. Watch this bland Brooklyn bedroom become a mid-century modern escape in just one day: In The Know by Yahoo is now available on Apple News follow us here! The post Latinx teen Daniella Benitez is building miracles, one house at a time appeared first on In The Know. More from In The Know: Latinx and Hispanic entrepreneurs discuss how they've found success at In The Know by Yahoo's live event Apple spotlights 4 incredible Latinx and Hispanic developers who aim to improve access to mental health, education and social connection 20 Latinx-owned beauty brands that are doing big things in hair care, skin care, makeup and more Get to know Nopalera, the Latinx beauty brand found at Nordstrom When director Joe Mantegna and actor Ronnie Marmo introduced their one-man show Im Not a Comedian ... Im Lenny Bruce to lower Manhattan in 2019, they thought it important, just like the performer whose life inspired the play, to use the racially charged N-Word, even though it sometimes led to audience members prematurely leaving the theater. The idea was to strip that vile term of its power for both Bruce in the 1960s and Marmo, a half-century later. Now, after George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police during a May 2020 arrest that led to a summer of nationwide protests and amid the national cultural shift thats occurred in recent years, Mantegna and Marmo are bringing their show back to the East Coast but theyre leaving the racial slur behind. I realized, I dont think Lenny would do the bit now, Marmo told the Daily News by phone from his Los Angeles home. In a decision Marmo said was approved by Bruces daughter, Kitty Bruce, he cut out a striking segment of the play that started with Marmo, as Bruce, performing a stand-up show including the line Are there any n-----s here tonight? Marmo, 51, reasoned that times have changed since 2012 when he started writing the Lenny Bruce homage he completed in 2017. I realized theres a balance between being an artist and telling the truth, and not being tone-deaf to the world Im living in, he said. Marmo insists it isnt the so-called cancel culture or woke audience he fears offending. Young liberals, he said, is a crowd he wants to introduce to Bruces comedy. The actor more so worries about emboldening a racist demographic that has become more brazen since his show opened nearly six years ago. The people on the right who are screaming Screw you! First amendment! Free speech! Ill say what I want... those people think Im doing the show for them, he marveled. Lenny is rolling over in his grave. He recalls one incident where he spied a group of theatergoers in the front row laughing at his use of provocative language for what he thought was the wrong reason. Story continues I stopped the bit and said, Stop laughing, Marmo claims. Usually people get the spirit of it. Joking about race in America has always been tricky. During a May interview with podcaster Al Franken, where Bruce was discussed, 53-year-old funnyman Patton Oswalt said his generations seemingly progressive comedians in the aughts misread the room when it came to race jokes in America. We thought we were beyond racism, the comic said. We didnt realize we were actually mapping out a blueprint for a lot of the alt-right people and a lot of the edgelords and a lot of the st-posters to use, for them to go Im just being ironic, when no, no, you actually mean that. He also complained those provocateurs arent funny. Top podcaster Joe Rogan found himself having to confront his liberal use of the N-word when videos of him strung together saying it repeatedly without context went viral in February. Rogan, insisting hes no bigot, issued a public apology. He told his millions of fans he never used the word as a pejorative and declared he doesnt use it at all now. The Newark, New Jersey, native called having to address the issue the most regretful and shameful thing that Ive ever had to talk about publicly. Rogan defended he simply repeated nger as said, rather than opting for the more PC N-Word. The idea of literally replacing Nger with the term the N-word in a skit about the word itself is something Marmo said would be really silly. I dont know if the (N-word) bit will ever end up in the play, he said. It might. (Im not a Comedian ... Im Lenny Bruce begins its East Coast return with an Oct. 15 performance at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. More shows will be announced soon. That performance will include two other skits by Bruce that take the place of the routine featuring the slur. They focus around religious jokes considered risque in Bruces day.) A Shell station on Olympic Boulevard in Los Angeles displays gas prices of more than $7 per gallon on Sept. 29. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) To the editor: I'm fed up with high gas prices. I'm fed up with paying $2 a gallon more than the national average. ("Gas in Los Angeles now costs $6.26 a gallon as average price jumps 15 cents overnight," Sept. 29) I'm fed up with the "special blend" that is more expensive to produce. I'm fed up with problems at the West Coast refineries that happen every year and supposedly make inventories tight. I'm fed up with politicians telling us that gas companies are not taking advantage of California drivers. About 13% of all motor vehicles in this country are registered in California, so dont tell me gas companies arent taking advantage of drivers here and raking in record profits. As your article notes, in one 24-hour period, the average price of gas in California increased by 15 cents but only 10 cents nationwide. Why are drivers in California always the ones being mistreated? John W. Schmitz, Valencia .. To the editor: I have been patronizing a station for many years because it is conveniently located and has always had moderate prices. Its price for a gallon of gas went down appropriately after the big rise this summer, but now it's back with a vengeance. Two weeks ago, it was charging $5.89 for a gallon of regular. On the morning of Sept. 27, I noticed it was charging $6.19. Three hours later, returning, I saw that it had risen to $6.49. I needed gas, so I paid. Fortunately, I have to fuel my Toyota Prius only about every eight weeks. This is real gouging, and it is time to enact an excess profits tax. Julie May, Los Angeles This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.s nuclear watchdog, said the director general of Ukraines and Europes largest power plant, Ihor Murashov, has been released from Russian custody after his detention last week. I welcome the release, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi tweeted. I have received confirmation that Mr. Murashov has returned to his family safely. Murashov was blindfolded and detained after leaving the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on Friday. KEY DEVELOPMENTS: Ukrainian troops continue offensive, claim new gains AP Investigation: Russia smuggling Ukrainian grain to help pay for Putins war Europe faces unprecedented risk of gas shortage, IEA says Fleeing Russians follow path of 1917 refugees to Istanbul 10 torture sites in 1 town: Russia sowed pain, fear in Izium OTHER DEVELOPMENTS: MOSCOW The Russian military on Monday acknowledged that Kyivs forces have broken through Moscows defenses in the Kherson region. Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said in his daily briefing that With numerically superior tank units in the direction of Zolota Balka and Oleksandrivka, the enemy managed to forge deep into our defenses." Konashenkov added that Russian troops have occupied a pre-prepared defensive line and continue to inflict massive fire damage on Kyivs forces. ___ MOSCOW The lower house of the Russian parliament voted Monday to endorse the treaties for four regions of Ukraine to join Russia. The unanimous vote by the State Duma followed the signing of the treaties by Russian President Vladimir Putin and the leaders of the four regions on Friday after the Kremlin-orchestrated referendums that were rejected by Ukraine and the West as having no legal validity. The vote was unanimous on each of the four treaties, but the number of yes votes ranged from 409 to 413, apparently because some lawmakers were slow to push the voting buttons. ___ WASHINGTON White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby says Ukraine has made gains in the northeast of the country where they are pushing up against the Luhansk region, and he said they are making gains in the south, too. Story continues Theyre absolutely on the move here, Kirby said on ABCs Good Morning America program. And like youve heard President Biden saying, were going to continue to make sure we can give them the weapons and capabilities so they can continue that sign of progress. ___ KYIV, Ukraine Russian shelling of eight Ukrainian regions over the past 24 hours has killed two civilians and injured 14 more, Ukraines presidential office reported Monday. A missile strike was carried out on the city of Zaporizhzhia, capital of the Zaporizhzhia region, parts of which are under Russian control and which has been illegally annexed by Moscow. Russian forces fired some 10 S-300 anti-aircraft missiles at the city and two nearby villages, according to the presidential office. The strike destroyed a rehabilitation center for children with special needs; one person was injured. Cities across the Dnieper River from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant were also shelled. In Nikopol, a frequent target of Russian shelling, power lines were damaged, as were a dozen residential buildings and private houses. ___ MOSCOW The Kremlin says no final decision has been made on the territory of two of the four regions it plans to incorporate into Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Donetsk and Luhansk regions would join Russia as defined by administrative borders that existed before a conflict erupted there in 2014. He noted that the issue of the borders of the two other regions Zaporizhzhia and Kherson remains open. We will continue to discuss that with residents of those regions, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed treaties on Friday to make the four regions part of Russia in a move rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies. The lower house of Kremlin-controlled parliament is set to ratify the treaties Monday and the upper house will follow Tuesday. Russia controls virtually all of the Luhansk region and about 60% of the Donetsk region that together makes Ukraines eastern industrial heartland of Donbas. In the south, Russia controls most of the Kherson region and a significant part of the Zaporizhzhia region. ___ WARSAW, Poland Polands Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador on Monday to protest to protest Russias illegal annexation of four Ukrainian regions last week. The Polish Foreign Ministry said its a coordinated action across Europe Union countries. Russian Ambassador Sergey Andreev defended Russias annexation of the territories. Speaking to reporters after the meeting Andreev said the four former territories of Ukraine will forever remain Russian territories. This is by no means a breach of international law, it is an act of self-determination. He was also asked about the large numbers of Russian men fleeing the country. He replied: Yes, there are people who are fleeing, but this is how our society cleanses itself of those who are not part of our nation. ___ LONDON -- The Joint Expeditionary Force group of northern European nations will meet Monday to discuss the safety of undersea pipelines and cables after blasts ruptured two natural gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said. Wallace said the virtual meeting has been called by the U.K. and the Netherlands. The force brings together troops from 10 countries, including the Baltic and Nordic nations, and has seen its importance increase since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February. Wallace also said Britain will acquire two specialist ships to protect undersea cables and pipes, with the first multi-role survey ship for seabed warfare operational by the end of next year. ___ BELGOROD, Russia Vyacheslav Gladkov, governor of Russias Belgorod region on the border with Ukraine, reported Monday that Ukrainian shelling of a village near the border killed a 48-year-old woman. The shells, Gladkov said in a statement posted on Telegram, hit the center of the village of Golovchino, damaging several buildings. It wasnt immediately clear if there were other casualties, according to the statement. ___ MOSCOW Russias top diplomat Monday compared Western military support for Ukraine to the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II. Addressing the lower house of the Russian parliament before it voted to ratify the treaties for four regions of Ukraine to join Russia, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the United States of rallying allies to counter Russia in Ukraine just as Nazi Germany relied on European resources when it invaded the Soviet Union. The U.S. has mobilized practically all of the collective West to turn Ukraine into an instrument of war against Russia, just as Hitler mobilized military resources of most European nations to attack the Soviet Union, Lavrov said. Presenting the treaties with the four regions to lawmakers before the vote, Lavrov said they marked the logical continuation of the process of reunification of Russian lands. ___ MOSCOW -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says criticism of Russia's military leadership by Chechnyas regional leader was driven by emotions. Ramzan Kadyrov, the Kremlin-backed leader of Chechnya, scathingly criticized the Russian military command over the weekend, saying that the Russian retreat from the city of Lyman in eastern Ukraine was a result of incompetence and nepotism. Kadyrov also called for the use of low-yield nuclear weapons in Ukraine to reverse the tide of the conflict in Russias favor. Asked about Kadyrovs statements, Peskov said they were driven by emotions. Even in difficult moments, emotions must be excluded while making assessments, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters Monday. We prefer to stick to well-balanced, objective assessments. Responding to Kadyrovs comments on nuclear weapons, Peskov said conditions for their use are outlined in Russias security doctrine, adding that there could be no other reasons for their deployment. ___ Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine Weekend Catch-up Edition: Videos circulating on social media from around midday on Oct. 1 showed Ukrainian troops on the edge of Lyman, and subsequent reports from both Ukrainian and Russian sources said Ukrainian soldiers had been seen in the center of the town. An important rail junction is located at the town, and by controlling it, Ukraine can cut off another supply route to Russian invasion forces in the east of the country. Following a meeting of the National Security and Defense Council, the President revealed Ukraines application to join the Alliance. The President stressed that de facto Ukraine has already completed its journey to NATO, and proved compatibility with the Alliance's standards. De facto. Today, Ukraine is applying to make it de jure," Zelenskyy announced, recalling the example of Finland and Sweden. Under a procedure that will be in line with our value for the protection of our entire community. In an expedited manner. Germany has signaled that it supports Ukraines quick accession in theory but stressed that the decision should be unanimous. In total, 51 people fell victim to the attack. The initial death toll of 28 rose following the passing of a few more of the victims in hospital. The convoy was mostly composed of people waiting to enter the occupied territories, to pick up their relatives and deliver much-needed humanitarian aid. Early reports indicate that the Russian military fired 16 rockets from an S-300 air defense system, deputy presidential chief-of-staff Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on Telegram. Story continues Presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak tweeted that There is no point in negotiating with those who dance on bones (Russian dictator Vladimir) Putin and his entourage. Zelenskyy himself has previously said that the claimed annexation of Ukrainian territory by Russia would render negotiations impossible. Ihor Murashov was apprehended by Russian patrol police at around 4.00 p.m. on his way from the station to the nearby town of Enerhodar. "His car was brought to a stop, he was forcibly detained, blindfolded, and taken to an undisclosed location," an Energoatom official said. Murashov is responsible for the plant's nuclear and radiation safety and his abduction endangers the operation of Europe's largest nuclear power plant, the nuclear operator stated. Once that process begins, ECU will control 50% of the electrical export market to Poland. The enterprise was granted the right to export electricity to Poland with a capacity of 110 MW after winning a daytime auction held by the transmission system operator Ukrenergo on Sept. 29. As a result, the state-owned energy trader displaced the dominant private player and received the right to supply 50% of the export volume offered at the auction. The corvette, a Turkish Ada-class anti-submarine design, has been christened the Hetman Ivan Mazepa, after the famed 17th century military and political leader. First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska took part in the launching ceremony, together with the commander of the Ukrainian Navy, Vice Admiral Oleksiy Neizhpapa. One more Ada-class corvette for Ukraine is under construction. The days long-read: Ukrainian expert explains how Russia might launch nuclear strike on Ukraine Oleksiy Melnyk, co-director of foreign policy and international security programs at the Razumkov Center, explained to NV the stages of coordinating a nuclear strike, how likely Russia is to use nuclear weapons, and what could prevent it. NV has looked into out how Kyiv residents are reacting to the Kremlins nuclear threats and what the Kyiv authorities will do if there is a nuclear strike. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Getty Im Black. Thats plain to me. I was raised in a Black family, with all different shades of the spectrum. But what that means to others is something else. As I travel around the world, others see me as more of a question mark. 5 Ways Rick Steves Europe Can Do Better for Black People I recount my lineage in the same way to everyone. My father was raised in New York, but his family is from Puerto Rico. His heritage is primarily Spanish, Taino Indian, and Black Algerian. I carry the same name as my great grandfather, a sailor from Algeria: Lateef Daumont. My mothers family is from Louisiana, and our roots there trace from New Orleans, back through Baton Rouge, Natchitoches, and finally to Cane River. My mothers side of the family is very fair-skinned. Its a long and fascinating story, but maybe one for another time, for the right time. The author and his father, Lucas. Courtesy of Lateef Daumont I was born and raised in Oakland, California. In Oakland, when I tell folks how my parents arrived in the city and conceived me, people tend to hand wave and say You light-skinned or You mixed as a subcategory for Black. Like Curry, or Klay. Black folks in the Bay Area are often seen as both multi-ethnic and Black. Light-skinned or mixed race people in the Bay Area are not an anomaly. Personally, it feels like an oversimplification, but I get it. People need their own context. When I travel to New Orleans, Im often interrogated over my family names (Tervalon/Jones/Montague/Galapion). Sometimes folks know just by looking at me that they are, most likely, related to me. Once authenticated, that familiarity provides access to realities and experiences that are not normally shared with folks outside the community. It is also the only place that defines me chiefly by my mothers rich cultural heritage, and not my fathers darker skin. The authors father, Lucas. Courtesy of Lateef Daumont In New York, where my father is from, I am Puerto Rican. On sight. They dont ask, they just tell methere aint a lot of conversation about it. My father, born in Puerto Rico and relocated to New York as a toddler, is Borinquen Moreno. But no one asks about the rest of the racial makeup, and by extension, my own. Story continues In New York, it is simply a statement of fact: You Puerto Rican. Thats it. But in France, where I was recently on business, people wanted to know where I was from before the trip across the Atlantic. As in, they wanted to know where in Africa my ancestors were from. On my mothers side the answer is Kenyaher family matriarch, Kersia, an East African woman, is buried in Cane River, Louisiana. There is an opportunity here to tell you stories of people from all over the Earth that tried their luck in an earlier Americaspecifically in freaky-deaky French Colonial America. The point is I dont look Kenyan to people. My heritage includes additional information from Togo, Haiti, and over 10 other ethnicities. The authors mother, Melanie. Courtesy of Lateef Daumont In France, they are ready to bet cold hard cash that Im from Morocco. On sight. Although Im not, there is money to be made. But when they find out whats what, it all makes sense to them. My father looks very Algerian because he is. As his son, I have a Muslim first name and a French last name. Its as powerful as it is surprising to be welcomed into community with historically Muslim, Berber, and Moorish folks. By identifying with me, culturally, these folks are making an effort to welcome based on commonality. People crave connection. They look to learn from others. For some people, the question of ethnic history is just a conversational formalitya seat at the table has already been set for me. These are the people that meet me in the spirit of inclusion. The authors family. From left to right; sister Esperanza, father Lucas, mother Melanie, and the author, Lateef. Courtesy of Lateef Daumont But some folks, especially here in the U.S., view me only in the spirit of exclusion. How my family got to Oakland, the stops along the way, and why I look the way I do, are all a direct result of the transatlantic slave trade. That part of the conversation makes some people uncomfortable. Which means that my very existence makes some people uncomfortable. Which is crazy, considering that its just history. Its immutable. It happened. You dont have to feel a way about it for it to have occurred. But you cant just ignore it and make it go away. Your life wont change for the worse in any kind of substantive way from acknowledging my existence. End the Stigma on Black Men Suffering From Depression Yet, when the GOP rails against people being educated about any of these parts of world history and African-American historythe parts about me, whether Oakland, Louisiana, New York, Puerto Rico, or Africathey are lobbying for the erasure of how I came to be. They wring their hands about the need to erase who I am. Yet here I am. Im the evidence of what has happened, still here, staring at you in your face. Still got these fingers in the air, too. Just like those that came before me. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. PARIS (Reuters) -French President Emmanuel Macron's chief of staff has been indicted by the national financial crimes prosecutor over a conflict of interest relating to his alleged links with Swiss-Italian shipping company MSC, the prosecutor's office said. Alexis Kohler, Macron's closest and most influential adviser, sits at the top of the Elysee Palace's administrative pyramid, and news of his indictment - a legal step that puts him under formal investigation in France - is a blow. The prosecutor's office "confirms Alexis Kohler, currently the Secretary-General of the French presidency, has been put under formal investigation for unlawful taking of interest," it said in a statement. Macron's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Le Figaro newspaper said Macron had decided to keep Kohler in the job despite the investigation. "(Alexis Kohler) strongly challenges having committed any crime. The subsequent procedure, to which he now has access, will enable him to prove his innocence, " his lawyer Eric Dezeuze told Reuters. Macron's office has said before that Kohler had at no time hidden his family ties to the Aponte family that founded and still owns MSC. The investigation comes after anti-graft group Anticor filed a complaint accusing Kohler of breaking conflict-of-interest rules after it emerged he had family links to the Italian owners of MSC, for whom he had worked in between two government jobs. MSC, which runs cruise ships, is one of the biggest clients of French shipyard Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the maker of the Queen Mary 2, which the French government has tried to restructure several times over the past decades. The complaint alleges a conflict of interest based on Kohler's dealings with MSC while he was working for the French state holdings agency between 2012-2014 and later as a senior official in Macron's team at the finance ministry in 2014-2016. Story continues Kohler left the finance ministry in 2016 when Macron stepped down as economy minister. He then moved to Geneva to take up a position on MSC's board. Nine months later, Kohler quit that post to join the Elysee following Macron's election in 2017. Under French law, a formal investigation means there is evidence implicating a suspect, but does not mean the person being investigated has been charged. The person can be charged at a later date if further evidence emerges against them, or the investigation can be dropped. (Reporting by Benoit Van Overstraeten, Elizabeth Pineau and Michel Rose; Editing by GV de Clercq, Bernadette Baum and Josie Kao) Publications under a variety of names and all tied to conservative political operative Dan Proft have been mailed to thousands of homes throughout Chicago and the suburbs. The publications have become controversial for pushing right-wing talking points. (Todd Panagopoulos / Chicago Tribune) Regarding David Greisings column Strengthening journalism is the best antidote for the scourge of fake news (Sept. 30): I read his piece hoping to see examples that supported his rhetoric. He writes, Adhere to the facts? Broken. What facts have Dan Proft and his People Who Play by the Rules Political Action Committee broken? Greising offers no facts in his rebuttal, which is a shame. Advertisement The photo above the column shows a headline from Chicago City Wire: After Pritzker school lockdowns, Chicago student test scores plummet. The nonprofit news outlet Chalkbeat Chicago reported this: At the elementary level, twice as many Chicago Public Schools students got Fs or incompletes during the spring of 2021, compared with 2018 and 2019, according to a new consortium study of pandemic grading in the district. A reasonable person would have to agree with the Chicago City Wire headline as Pritzker did in fact shut down public schools to in-person learning during COVID-19, and unfortunately tests scores did plummet. Greisings piece would have been better if he had just said he doesnt like Proft he is entitled to his opinion. His piece did nothing to advance the cause of journalism. Advertisement John Foley, Northfield Using trustworthy news sources Thank you to David Greising of the Better Government Association for writing one of the most informative columns I have read in a long time. When I first received a copy of the Chicago City Wire, I had no idea why I was receiving it and who was behind its publication. I immediately disliked the tone of its content. While it is still mailed to my residence, I do not bother to peruse it, and it is immediately trashed. Most of my news comes from the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times, The New York Times and my neighborhood newspaper, the Nadig Press. Along with some other sources of information such as NPR and the BBC, they keep me adequately informed while I avoid the fakery of publications and internet sites masquerading as legitimate news. Larry Vigon, Chicago Actually, small states lose out Two letter writers in Thursdays Tribune (We need the Electoral College and Protecting smaller states) believe the Electoral College functions exactly the way the Framers intended by giving the states without huge cities a chance to be heard. On the contrary, small states are some of the biggest losers under our current system. The winner-take-all structure benefits larger states because they have more electoral votes to offer. Do you want Wyomings three electoral votes or Californias 55 votes? Besides, why would any candidate campaign in a small state? Nearly all of them reliably vote Democratic or Republican. Candidates are in Georgia, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Theyre rarely if ever in Montana or Alaska because there isnt much incentive electorally. In presidential elections, the Electoral College allows candidates to ignore the voices of millions of Americans because their state reliably votes for one party and a majority of Americans want to change that. In a recent poll by the Pew Research Center, more than 50% of Americans adults support changing the system so the candidate who receives the most votes wins. I cant help but agree. In Americas long expansion of the franchise and equality of democracy, its simply the right thing to do. Advertisement The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact would guarantee the presidency to the candidate who wins the most popular votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. If passed by states with at least 270 electoral votes combined, the national popular vote winner would win the presidency every time. The bill has already been passed in 15 states and the District of Columbia representing 195 electoral votes; only 75 more are needed to fix the way America elects our president and help protect democracy. Illinois is part of the compact, but the rest of the Midwest is not. Chicagoans can inform their families and friends in Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio and other Midwestern states of the importance of one person, one vote. They can urge their states to join the compact. Together, we can preserve the democratic tradition we hold so dear. Alexander Dean, Chicago Hypocrisy of Florida leadership The people of Florida have elected a lineup of demagogues who decry socialism and use the term as a scare tactic. The fear that they allude to is that the federal government will take money from their constituents, in the form of taxes, and give it to others, in the form of social safety net spending. They call this spending handouts and fabricate a list of ills that result from the handouts. Now, the people of Florida, through these same elected officials, are requesting massive government spending (a handout) to assist in the recovery from Hurricane Ian. It is a perfectly acceptable request. Catastrophic losses should be socialized throughout our society by insurance companies and the federal government. Advertisement What I find to be totally unacceptable is the gross hypocrisy of those political leaders who use a dog whistle on the one hand and seek socialized solutions to great problems on the other. Worse than hypocrisy is the unwillingness of those leaders to assist the poor, the disadvantaged and the immigrants in our society who need the help of others. Indeed, I would like to see political leaders, from all of the poorer states, acknowledge the economic transfer of wealth of states such as Illinois to those poorer states. This transfer has continued throughout the lifetime of the baby boom generation. They should further stipulate that this is what ought to be done in a fair and equitable society and affirm the principle of government assistance when and where needed. And, they should acknowledge that economic hardship is no different from hardship wrought by natural disaster. Hopefully, federal assistance will be swift, efficient and effective for Florida and anywhere else it is needed. Robert A. Weisman, Chicago Grateful to first responders, DeSantis After living in Florida for 41 years, I have been through many storms and know what its like to have no electricity. Cold showers are no fun. And living without air conditioning with high heat and humidity can be challenging. By the grace of God, my community was spared the wrath of Hurricane Ian, and I will head back to work. But my heart aches for all of those devastated by the storm and to those who lost loved ones. The beautiful Sunshine State has been dealt a cruel blow, and while it is sad to see the horrific images on the news, we are grateful to all the first responders who risk their lives to save the lives of others. And bravo to dedicated Gov. Ron DeSantis who is committed to bringing aid to all of those in need and getting Florida back up on its feet as soon as possible. Advertisement JoAnn Lee Frank, Clearwater, Florida Join the conversation in our Letters to the Editor Facebook group. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. Oct. 3A Saco seaweed company hopes to raise $3.5 million for production upgrades while entering a deal with a new customer, backed by celebrity Tom Colicchio. Atlantic Sea Farms filed paperwork for the private financing with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Sept. 23. The funding drive comes a year after Atlantic raised $3.1 million in venture capital, which helped pay for the build-out of a 27,000-square-foot processing facility in Biddeford. That's four times the company's previous space in Saco. The company offers a wide range of foodie products from Maine seaweed. The company started out as a mussel and kelp farm, Ocean Approved Inc. But since 2018, under the direction of CEO Briana Warner, Atlantic has expanded and now has 27 partner kelp farmers in the state, primarily lobster fishermen working in the off-season. Those harvesters brought in 970,000 pounds of kelp this year. It's not yet clear what the new financing round might mean. An Atlantic Sea Farms spokesperson, Chief Marketing Officer Jesse Baines, said the company plans to use the proceeds to expand its markets and make innovations at the Biddeford facility, but wouldn't disclose details. However, on the day of the SEC filing, Atlantic announced a partnership with Plant Based Seafood Co., a Virginia company that makes seafood-like products under the brand Mind Blown. Atlantic Sea Farms kelp will be added to the brand's new Dusted Shrimp and Dusted Scallops products this month and to its Crab Cakes in 2023. The products will initially sell at more than 300 Sprouts Farmers Market grocery stores across the U.S. Mind Blown has been attracting attention for its products, winning numerous industry awards. Colicchio, judge on the Bravo TV network's "Top Chef" series, invested in the company this spring. SEAWEED SUSTAINABILITY Both Atlantic and Plant Based are women-owned companies that tout a dedication to environmental sustainability and ocean health. Story continues The partnership is also an example of how Atlantic Sea Farms is building demand for Maine-grown seaweed among environmentally conscious consumers. Kelp improves the quality of the water where it is growing by absorbing carbon and other nutrients that otherwise could lead to algae blooms, and making water less acidic in the area it is growing. "Other brands out there are really eager to make a positive impact with their own sourcing decisions," Baines said. "Atlantic Sea Farms really rose to the top as a partner that can help them do that." The use of domestic seaweed is becoming a way to increase the social credibility of some companies, and branding Maine seaweed as "regenerative" is part of that trend. Atlantic Sea Farms is working with Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, in East Boothbay, to quantify kelp's potential for mitigating climate change and ocean acidification. Nichole Price, director of the Center for Venture Research on Seafood Solutions at Bigelow, said that Atlantic Sea Farms is working with the center and partners on several studies. One is looking into how kelp can reduce what Bigelow and the Island Institute call the "halo effect" the weakening of shells in mussels clams and other shellfish because of ocean acidification. "That research is in the process of peer review publication that hasn't been published yet, but we're fairly confident in the results," Price said. "For three years in a row at one farm in Maine, we were able to detect this halo effect. When we transplanted mussels to grow inside a kelp farm, they grew thicker, stronger shells." These studies are now being reproduced in Alaska and Norway. In other studies with Atlantic Sea Farms, Bigelow is developing genetic tools to verify how much carbon kelp beds sequester in marine sediment and what qualities of a kelp bed contribute to its ability to sequester carbon. The lab is also working with Atlantic to study how adding seaweed to animal feed can reduce the amount of methane the animals emit. A LOBSTERING ALTERNATIVE In addition to the environmental benefits of kelp farming, Warner was drawn to its potential economic benefits for coastal communities. Before joining Atlantic, she served as the economic development director of the Island Institute in Rockland, supporting the resilience of coastal communities. There she became concerned by the state's dependence on lobster, which she called a "monoculture" in an interview with Talking Food in Maine. "We are at an urgent and critical point right now on the coast of Maine where we need to diversify," Warner said in the interview last year. "Lobster is going to be around in 30-40 years but it isn't going to be what it is today. We need to diversity now, while people have capital, while they have careers on the water." She saw that Maine's fleet of owner-operator lobstermen are well-suited to transition into kelp growing in the winter because they are already equipped with a boat and some of the necessary gear. When she became CEO at Ocean Approved, she set to work building partnerships with fishermen, convincing them to branch out into kelp by offering them seed, training, technical assistance in obtaining leases. And to further sweeten the deal, she also offered a guarantee that Ocean Approved would buy all the kelp they could produce. The company worked to rapidly build demand for Maine-grown seaweed. Ocean Approved forged partnerships with restaurants to introduce Maine kelp as a healthy ingredient in their menus. Sweetgreen, Chef David Chang, Legal Seafood and fast-food chain B. Good were all on board. Then COVID hit, so Ocean Approved pivoted to retail, rebranded as Atlantic Sea Farms, and developed a consumer product line. It includes kelp cubes for soups and flavored ones for smoothies, fermented kelp salad and seaweed kimchi, in packaging that features stories from Maine kelp farmers. That guarantee to buy all their partners' kelp was an important move. A 2017 benchmark study by the Maine Aquaculture Association found that only 1 in 6 seaweed farms were profitable, so it was initially a hard sell to get people interested. "I think their guarantee to buy from partner farms are critical, especially for new farmers who are learning as they go," said Sebastian Belle, executive director of the Maine Aquaculture Association. "By guaranteeing to buy the product, Atlantic Sea Farms significantly reduces the risk to the farmer that they will invest time and money and then not be able to sell the product." The 2017 study was done just when the sector was starting up, he said, but since then, the profitability of kelp farming has been improving steadily. The association is doing a new study now, and the results should be available by the end of the year. "I think it is pretty clear that well-run farms are profitable because more and more working waterfront families are getting into it," Belle said. "If it was not profitable they would not take the risk." Baines agreed, noting that one of Atlantic Sea Farms' partner farmers made six figures last year with a four-acre farm. But kelp farming is primarily used as supplemental income right now. "It does not replace their income from fishing, but it does cushion the blow on bad seasons," she said. A man who made multiple bomb threats for more than a year to a business in the Midlands was arrested, the Sumter Police Department said. Antwan Cleveland Alexander was taken into custody Sept. 28, police said in a news release. The 24-year-old Bethune resident was charged with six counts of making a bomb threat, according to the release. Officers linked Alexander to two bomb threats called in to Sitel Corp. during business hours Sept. 27 and 28, as well as two threats made earlier in September, and another issued in September 2021, police said. Alexander was described as a disgruntled Sitel employee, according to the release. The business, formerly Sykes Enterprises Inc. before being acquired by Sitel, is in the Sumter Mall. Thats on Broad Street, in an area densely packed with retail businesses and restaurants. There was no word on what Alexander did for Sitel which is essentially a call center that provides outsourced sales, technical support, customer service to companies or why he was unhappy with his job. Information about how police connected Alexander to the bomb threats was not available. In response to each call where a threat was made, the business had to be evacuated as first responders searched for bombs and assessed if the threats were credible, police said. Additionally, business and travel in the Broad and Rast streets, Bultman Drive and Wesmark Boulevard area were also disrupted, according to the release. Similar hoaxes can cost taxpayers thousands in manpower hours while diverting resources from other law enforcement activities. There were no reports of destructive devices being discovered after any of the threats. Despite the charges against Alexander, the investigation is ongoing, police said. Bond was set at $100,000 and GPS monitoring was ordered by the judge, according to the release. If convicted, Alexander faces a maximum punishment of 10 years in prison on each charge, police said. A 20-year-old Tarrant County resident has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2021 killing of Arlington E-Z Mart employee Jordan Hightower. Dorian Woodard was convicted of murder Monday morning in the Jan. 17, 2021, shooting death of Hightower during a robbery. After a deliberation of about 10 minutes in the trials punishment phase Monday afternoon, the jury unanimously handed down a sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole after 30 years. They also fined Woodard $10,000. In the closing arguments Monday afternoon, defense attorney Gary Smart said Woodard, who was 18 at the time of the killing, was struggling with an untreated mental illness, an immature brain and the results of being raised in a low-income environment. He has the ability to be rehabilitated, Smart told the jury. Matt Rivers, the prosecuting attorney, said Woodard needs to be held accountable for his actions, and life in prison is a just punishment. This isnt a developmental issue, Rivers said. This is someone who did something evil. After the verdict was handed down, Walter Hightower, Jordan Hightowers father, told Woodard that he forgives him. He said his relationship with God has given him the strength to move forward and he prays that Woodard will find God, too. You can still find peace and purpose for your life, Walter Hightower told Woodard. William A. Lewis, a former Dover resident, has pleaded guilty to two charges of attempted aggravated arson in connection with a March 29, 2020, fire at Grove Home Medical. NEW PHILADELPHIA A 53-year-old man pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of attempted aggravated arson in connection with the March 29, 2020, fire at Grove Home Medical in Dover. William A. Lewis, formerly of Dover, entered the pleas as part of a plea agreement the Tuscarawas County Prosecutor's Office. Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Judge Elizabeth Lehigh Thomakos scheduled sentencing for Dec. 6. More:Dover man charged with aggravated arson in Grove Medical fire She said possible punishments include a sentence of nine months to three years and a $10,000 fine. Lewis will be required to pay court costs and be listed for the rest of his life on the Ohio arson registry. Assistant Tuscarawas County Prosecutor Fred Scott said he will ask the judge to order Lewis to pay $2,875 in restitution. He is recommending probation with a suspended three-year prison term. The state reduced the original indictment from two charges of aggravated arson to two charges of attempted aggravated arson. Dover police investigated the fire in the building at 849 Boulevard, which holds a business and a residence. The fire destroyed a hose and damaged metal siding on the south side of the building. A passerby and the tenant of an apartment above the business extinguished the fire before firefighters arrived. Proceedings in common pleas court were delayed while competency and sanity evaluations were done. Lewis was restored to competency at Heartland Behavioral Healthcare in Massillon. He was represented by attorney Travis Collins of Cadiz. Reach Nancy at 330-364-8402 or nancy.molnar@timesreporter.com. On Twitter: @nmolnarTR This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Man, 53, pleads guilty to attempted aggravated arson in Dover fire The big story: Hurricane Ian might be past, but its wreckage continues to affect several communities in its path. Schools in the hardest hit areas of Lee and Collier counties continue to assess the damage. Lee had no immediate plan to reopen, the Fort Myers News-Press reports, while Collier prepared to begin classes Thursday, the Naples Daily News reports. Schools in Manatee County expected to restart classes Tuesday, while Sarasota County schools planned to remain closed until further notice, the Herald-Tribune reports. Schools also are closed indefinitely in Charlotte County, the Charlotte Sun reports. The Tampa Bay area districts of Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco are resuming classes Monday. Among other parts of Florida: Seminole County schools prepared to reopen Monday, while Orange County schools will return Tuesday to give workers more time to clean up after the storm, the Orlando Sentinel reports. Seminole County relocated several bus stops because of the storm, WOFL reports. Polk County schools also will resume Tuesday, Lakeland Now reports. Duval, Clay and St. Johns county schools are restarting Monday, the Florida Times-Union reports. Flagler County schools resume today, and Volusia County students head back on Wednesday, the Daytona Beach News-Journal reports. To see a full list of closures and reopening dates, visit the Florida Department of Education website. Other school news Florida public school educators have continuing concerns about the states move to control access to books in libraries and classrooms. The state Department of Education has posted a new proposed rule fueling added worries about book bans, Salon reports. Three Broward County school district administrators were forced out amid grand jury criticism. Now their separation agreements are under scrutiny, the Sun-Sentinel reports. The Citrus County school district needs a new refrigerated truck for its food services. Its been waiting a year to get one, the Citrus County Chronicle reports. Story continues Florida launched a new K-5 reading initiative with free books last December. Program leaders called the model life changing for children, WCJB reports. Before you go ... Some say Kendrick Lamar is the best ever at his craft. Did you catch his SNL performance? Sign up for the Gradebook newsletter! Every Thursday, get the latest updates on whats happening in Tampa Bay area schools from Times education reporter Jeffrey S. Solochek. Click here to sign up. Oregon reported 4,269 new cases of coronavirus in the week ending Sunday, down 6.1% from the previous week. The previous week had 4,544 new cases of the virus that causes COVID-19. Oregon ranked 20th among the states where coronavirus was spreading the fastest on a per-person basis, a USA TODAY Network analysis of Johns Hopkins University data shows. In the latest week, coronavirus cases in the United States decreased 19.4% from the week before, with 323,859 cases reported. With 1.27% of the country's population, Oregon had 1.32% of the country's cases in the last week. Across the country, 10 states had more cases in the latest week than they did in the week before. Marion County reported 354 cases and four deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported 408 cases and two deaths. Throughout the pandemic, it has reported 82,741 cases and 787 deaths. Polk County reported 80 cases and two deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported 89 cases and one death. Throughout the pandemic, it has reported 19,022 cases and 152 deaths. Across Oregon, cases fell in 18 counties, with the best declines in Multnomah County, with 836 cases from 983 a week earlier; in Clackamas County, with 395 cases from 453; and in Marion County. >> See how your community has fared with recent coronavirus cases Within Oregon, the worst weekly outbreaks on a per-person basis were in Lake County with 369 cases per 100,000 per week; Jefferson County with 276; and Grant County with 222. The Centers for Disease Control says high levels of community transmission begin at 100 cases per 100,000 per week. Adding the most new cases overall were Multnomah County, with 836 cases; Washington County, with 597 cases; and Clackamas County, with 395. Weekly case counts rose in 14 counties from the previous week. The largest increases from the prior week's pace were in Benton, Jefferson and Linn counties. In Oregon, 41 people were reported dead of COVID-19 in the week ending Sunday. In the week before that, 28 people were reported dead. Story continues A total of 894,776 people in Oregon have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, and 8,561 people have died from the disease, Johns Hopkins University data shows. In the United States, 96,397,885 people have tested positive and 1,059,605 people have died. >> Track coronavirus cases across the United States Oregon's COVID-19 hospital admissions falling USA TODAY analyzed federal hospital data as of Sunday, Oct. 2. Likely COVID-19 patients admitted in the state: Last week: 638 The week before that: 678 Four weeks ago: 714 Likely COVID patients admitted in the nation: Last week: 51,355 The week before that: 53,692 Four weeks ago: 61,434 Hospitals in 17 states reported more COVID-19 patients than a week earlier, while hospitals in 25 states had more COVID-19 patients in intensive-care beds. Hospitals in 17 states admitted more COVID-19 patients in the latest week than a week prior, the USA TODAY analysis of U.S. Health and Human Services data shows. The USA TODAY Network is publishing localized versions of this story on its news sites across the country, generated with data from Johns Hopkins University and the Centers for Disease Control. If you have questions about the data or the story, contact Mike Stucka at mstucka@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Coronavirus update: Marion County reports 354 new COVID cases, 4 deaths TODAY spoke to Married to Medicine star Anila Sajja about her home burglary that has been chronicled on Season Nine of the show. On Sunday, December 19, 2021, the star discovered that her Milton, Georgia home had been broken into upon returning home after a family shopping trip with her husband Dr. Kiran Sajja and children, Aryana and Avir Sajja. TODAY reached out to the Milton, Georgia Police Department, who said that the case is active and ongoing. Sajja provided details about experience, and how she's moving forward, below. It was a lazy Sunday. Around 4 p.m., we left the house as we decided out of the blue to finish up our Christmas shopping. My husband, Kiran, my kids and I went to Best Buy, got some gifts for the kids, and went to dinner. Nobody knew where we were. I didnt put it on social media. We came home around 8:30 or 9 and parked in our driveway. Me and Aryana went upstairs. It was a Sunday night, so we were getting her ready for bed. Right away, my daughter noticed that our prayer door was open. Then, she looked straight ahead and noticed the ironing board was flipped over. When I saw the prayer door open, I was just like, Oh, maybe my younger son went in there playing around, but when I saw the ironing board tipped over, I was like, Oh, now thats weird. I looked to my left. In my blogger room, every cabinet door was open, and the desk drawers were open. I screamed for Kiran because Kiran was downstairs getting stuff out of the car. He came up and walked into the master bedroom. He told me to stay where I was, but I had to follow him because I was like, I just dont want to be alone. We saw our nightstand doors were open, and Kiran dialed 911. The cops asked, Do you know if theyre still in the house? We had no idea if they were still there. They said, Go downstairs, get back in your car, pull out into your driveway and wait for us. Story continues Five to ten minutes later, the cops showed up with loaded guns. Three or four of them walked throughout the home, checked every door, every closet to make sure they werent not there. They walked us back in and we walked through the entire home to see the rooms they ransacked. It almost looked like a movie scene. It was the scariest thing to see every cabinet door open and things just everywhere. I went to the ground and started crying because I was just devastated. Its not about my possessions being gone, but its the fact that these people walked in my house. It was one of the scariest moments of my life. It was very sad. It was devastating. It was traumatizing. Every piece of jewelry that I own was gone, including my wedding ring. Bags were taken, Indian jewelry handed down from generation to generation that I can never replace were gone. When I think about it, I honestly want to cry. Kiran always tells me, At least were safe, and we werent home. It could have been a lot worse. The pieces were invaluable. I felt super violated by the fact that they opened my nightstand drawer. Thats right next to where I lay my head at night. I felt like the house wasnt my house anymore. My kids were so scared that night. None of us could sleep. I couldnt even step foot in my closet anymore because I felt like it wasnt my house anymore. So, the next day, I went to Savannah to be with my parents, and I was there for two weeks. I just felt safer being with my parents and just being around family at that time. When I went back to the house, it wasnt really about moving forward, it was about our new reality. I couldnt just keep running away from it. We had to start over again. Do I feel the warmth in my home? No. Im still scared every night our camera alarm goes off. Its on sensitive mode, so all through the night it goes off, even if a bug flies in front of it. Im constantly checking it. We had to give some normalcy to our kids lives. That was the hardest part because I had to be a stronger person. I had to be the mother who said Its not going to happen again. Were fine. Out of the experience, I wanted to teach my kids that people can take away all of our possessions, but were a family, we love each other and we have to be there for each other. We have to move past this, be strong and move forward. I dont think Ive had a really good night of sleep since. I still dont feel fully safe, but I have to let go and move forward. I think thats the hardest part. You never want this to ever happen to anyone. Walking through my home, you cant ever remove the stain of the footprints of the robbers that came through our house. No matter how many times you clean the floor, those stains will always be there. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., addresses attendees during the Turning Point USA Student Action Summit on July 23, 2022, in Tampa, Florida. Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP In a tweet on Sunday, Matt Gaetz asked Congress to send financial aid to Florida. Gaetz said he was asking for help "on behalf of my fellow Florida Man in grave need of assistance." Gaetz was among the 201 Republicans who voted no to a bill that carved out cash for FEMA. Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz is calling for the US to send aid to Floridians in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian but he also voted "no" to a bill that carved out cash for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, to do just that. In a tweet on Sunday, Gaetz appealed for help after Hurricane Ian battered Florida. Ian was a Category 4 storm when it made landfall and pummeled the Florida coast, killing at least 76 people. "Dear Congress: On behalf of my fellow Florida Man in grave need of assistance. Just send us like half of what you sent Ukraine. Signed, Your Fellow Americans," Gaetz wrote on Twitter. Dear Congress: On behalf of my fellow Florida Man in grave need of assistance. Just send us like half of what you sent Ukraine. Signed, Your Fellow Americans Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) October 2, 2022 Gaetz's appeal for funding came two days after he and 200 other Republicans voted against a stopgap measure that sought to fund the government through December. Among other provisions, the bill also gave $18.8 billion to FEMA's disaster relief fund, $12 billion in aid for Ukraine, and $112 million to beef up security at federal courts. Speaking on the House floor in support of the bill last week, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that passing the bill would free up disaster recovery funding that would "go toward supporting Florida as well as Puerto Rico, Alaska and other communities hit by disaster." In the roll-call vote on Friday, 10 Republicans joined 220 Democrats in voting for the bill. It was signed into law by President Joe Biden on September 30. Story continues In a video posted to his Twitter page on October 1, Gaetz said he voted against the bill because it had other spending priorities tagged to it as well. "This was a piece of legislation regarding insulin prices. And they attached the entire funding of our government and Ukraine's to that bill so that these programs and these policy choices would not be subjected to committee review, and to hearings, and to markups and amendments," Gaetz said in the video. In response to Insider's request for comment, a Gaetz representative directed Insider toward Episode 73 of Gaetz's "Firebrand" podcast in particular a segment where Gaetz weighed in one what the Gaetz representative called bad policy and bad legislating. In the podcast, the congressman accused Pelosi of trying "to dictate budget terms into potential Republican control" before a potential Democratic Party loss in the midterms. Gaetz also rebuked the ten Republican House members who voted yes on the bill for, in his words, being "dumb" enough to get on board with the legislation. The Florida congressman was part of a group of 42 Republicans who vowed in a September 19 letter to "do what is necessary to ensure that not one additional penny will go toward this administration's radical, inflationary agenda." "Any legislation that sets the stage for a 'lame duck' fight on government funding gives Democrats one final opportunity to pass that agenda," the letter read. The letter also vowed to "oppose any continuing resolution that expires prior to the first day of the 118th Congress," and any appropriations package put forth by the Democrat-led Congress. Gaetz was not alone in opposing this bill while simultaneously asking for aid. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, too, asked for hurricane relief while voting against it. When questioned on CNN on October 2, Rubio said the bill had been "loaded up with a bunch of things that had nothing to do with disaster relief." "I would never put out there that we should go use a disaster relief package for Florida as a way to pay for all kinds of other things people want around the country," Rubio said. Rubio added that he was fighting against the legislation because it had "pork" in it, slang for unrelated funding requests being tagged to government spending. The full scope of Hurricane Ian's destruction is still being assessed. It's estimated to be one of the costliest hurricanes ever, with losses predicted to fall between $28 billion and $47 billion , according to a storm damage assessment by the data and research company CoreLogic. Read the original article on Business Insider WASHINGTON The senators who last month advanced a sprawling bill that includes $6.5 billion in military aid for Taiwan are hoping to pass it into law as part of the Fiscal 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Bob Menendez, D-N.J., told Defense News last week he is leading the charge to include the Taiwan Policy Act as an amendment to the NDAA, which the Senate is scheduled to start debating this month. We will do as much as we can on the Taiwan Policy Act in the NDAA, said Menendez. Thats our goal. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee advanced the bipartisan bill 17-5 last month after amending certain provisions to address White House concerns about some components of the legislation. The bipartisan bill would provide $6.5 billion in military aid to Taiwan through 2027 via Foreign Military Financing a program that allows other countries to purchase U.S. military equipment with grants and loans. The legislation also gives Taiwan the same benefits as a major non-NATO ally, expedites arms sales and prioritizes the transfer of excess U.S. defense articles there. The bill includes a wide array of other non-defense components, including sanctions on China if it is knowingly engaged in a significant escalation in aggression against Taiwan. China considers Taiwan a rogue province and has threatened to return it under the mainlands control, by force if necessary. Senate Armed Services Chairman Jack Reed, D-R.I., told Defense News his committee would take a look at the legislation. The other thing too is well get the opinion of the State Department and also the Department of Defense, said Reed. Menendez said he intends to propose adding the Taiwan Policy Act in its entirety to the NDAA. But then well have to see what might have to be amended in order to get the ball rolling, he continued. The defense stuff Ive got to believe is pretty solid. The defense portion of the bill also allows the president to establish an Asia-Pacific regional contingency stockpile at an unspecified location, allocating $500 million per year in funding for those stocks through 2025. Story continues The bill contains language intended to ameliorate the $14 billion backlog of weapons Taiwan purchased from the United States via the Foreign Military Sales process, according to a document obtained by Defense News in April. The Taiwan Policy Act directs the Defense and State departments to prioritize and expedite foreign military sales for Taipei and prohibits both departments from delaying the sales through a bundling route, whereby a defense manufacturer would simultaneously produce weapons systems from multiple contracts. It also requires U.S. defense manufacturers to expedite and prioritize the production of weapons that Taiwan purchased. Another provision would require the Defense and State departments to develop a list of weapons systems that are pre-cleared and prioritized for sale and release to Taiwan through the foreign military sales program. Lastly, the bill directs the president to establish a five-year plan to prioritize the delivery of excess defense articles to Taiwan while requiring the Defense and State departments to develop a comprehensive training program with the Taiwanese military. Rep. Mike McCaul, R-Texas, the ranking member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and 36 of his fellow Republicans announced their own version of the Taiwan Policy Act last week. Although many of the defense provisions are the same as those in the House bill, it also includes several provisions the Senate Foreign Relations Committee amended or struck in its bipartisan bill following Menendezs meetings with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Those include a provision that would have renamed the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Washington the Taiwan Representative Office and another that would have elevated the position of the top U.S. diplomat in Taiwan by requiring Senate confirmation. Now is the time to arm our ally before an invasion occurs, not after, McCaul said in a statement upon announcing his bill. Deterrence is key to stopping the [Chinese Communist Party] from provoking a conflict that would seriously harm U.S. national security. SANTA FE New Mexico has the worst rate in the nation for alcohol-related deaths at nearly 2,000 people per year and some lawmakers are debating whether the state tax on booze should be higher. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports the Legislative Health and Human Services Committee has chosen an alcohol tax increase as one of its top priorities for next year. But some lawmakers dont know how much to increase the alcohol tax, whether to change how the taxes are levied and what to do with the revenues raised. New Mexico taxes alcohol wholesalers a fixed amount per volume of beverage they sell to retailers, who raise prices on consumers to cover the upcharge. Experts say higher taxes reduce some of alcohols harmful impacts by making it more expensive to drink excessively. Alcohol taxes also raise revenue that can fund prevention and treatment services. But the New Mexican reports that the states rates dont adjust as inflation pushes up alcohols prices and legislators rarely tinker with them. The current rates 7 cents per drink for wine and spirits and 4 cents a drink for beer are at historic lows, according to the newspaper. The last time advocates in New Mexico attempted to raise alcohol taxes, they campaigned in 2017 for an across-the-board, quarter-a-drink increase and the bill flopped. Everyone needs to understand the landscape before we have a serious conversation about how it should be changed, Rep. Christine Chandler, who chairs the state legislatures Revenue Stabilization and Tax Policy Committee, told the New Mexican. In depth:Increasing alcohol tax would curb deaths in New Mexico, studies show This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: New Mexico lawmakers debate higher tax rate for alcohol Republican governor candidate Darren Bailey on Sunday opened a new avenue in his attacks on Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, questioning the patriotism of the first-term governor. In a video on Facebook as Bailey was preparing for his annual fundraiser at his farm in downstate Xenia, the GOP state senator noted the set up for the event included a stage featuring a large American flag. Advertisement Theres the stage again. Amazing, beautiful American flag back there, Bailey said. I want to share something with you. J.B, Pritzkers rallies and his events, I dont, I dont often see the flag flying in a prominent position, just keep that in mind. Bailey has sought to use his conservative rural grassroots and religious-based campaign to repeatedly attack Pritzker as a wealthy liberal Chicagoan who is out-of-touch with average working people. Advertisement In a prayer he offered during his Facebook post, Bailey offered thanks for the bountiful harvest across Illinois and added for Election Day, Father God, I pray that on Nov. 8, we have another harvest, and thats a harvest of good people being elected to positions in a state that is going to change the course of this nation. He went on to pray for Gods help to remove evil, wicked and corruption from our government. In a posting on Twitter, Pritzkers campaign manager, Mike Ollen, said Bailey will say absolutely anything but the truth. Ollens tweet featured a photo from the first debate between Pritzker and Bailey, which occurred on Friday. During the virtual event, Bailey appeared in a room with no background while Pritzker was flanked by both the U.S. and Illinois flags. And dont get me started on his election denial and support for Jan. 6th insurrectionists, Ollen said. Bailey, who supported and was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, had initially urged prayers for Trump and contended all this fraudulent activity is absolutely disgusting despite the former presidents baseless claims of voting fraud. State Sen. Darren Bailey, the GOP nominee for governor, speaks on Sept. 29, 2022, at the Chicago Tribune editorial board endorsement session. (Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune) In the general election, Bailey has said the constitutional transition process was followed and that Democrat Joe Biden was president. But on Thursday, appearing before the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board, Bailey declined to say whether the House select committee hearings on the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection had shown Trumps culpability in trying to overturn the popular election results. Advertisement Im not educated enough or informed enough to give you an answer on that, Bailey said. rap30@aol.com Former Washington Metropolitan Police Department officer Michael Fanone listens 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. AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite Former DC Metropolitan Police officer Michael Fanone is set to release a memoir on October 11. He told Rolling Stone he did the book in part because talking about January 6 destroyed his career. Fanone was assaulted during the riot and has repeatedly pushed back against those who downplay it. Former Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police officer Michael Fanone has frequently spoken out against the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and at great personal expense, according to him. "Mike Fanone is broke. I'm pretty sure that's why people do things like this," Fanone told Rolling Stone, speaking of himself in the third person while explaining part of his reasoning for writing a memoir: "I said the things that I said for free and fucking destroyed my career, made my job untenable, and then tried to make hard lemonade out of lemons." Fanone's memoir, "Hold the Line: The Insurrection and One Cop's Battle for America's Soul," is set to be released on October 11. Fanone was among the officers defending the Capitol when it was stormed by a mob of former President Donald Trump's supporters. Prosecutors said Fanone was repeatedly stun-gunned, beaten with a flagpole, and dragged down several steps. He had a heart attack and a concussion as a result of the assault and said he was left with a traumatic brain injury and PTSD. "I experienced the most brutal, savage hand-to-hand combat of my entire life, let alone my policing career, which spans almost two decades," he told CNN in April 2021. "This was nothing I had ever thought would be a part of my law-enforcement career." Four men were charged with assaulting Fanone, one of whom, Kyle Young, was sentenced on Tuesday to 86 months in prison. Fanone has repeatedly pushed back against Republicans who have sought to downplay the attack on the Capitol. But as he was speaking out including after he testified before Congress in July 2021 Fanone said he knew he was risking his career. "I knew pretty shortly after my congressional testimony that my career in law enforcement was fucking over with," Fanone told Rolling Stone, adding after his testimony "the criticism from within the [police] department went from quiet whispers to screams and yells." Story continues He had planned to return to full duty after recovering from his injuries, but instead, on December 31, 2021, he resigned with a note to his supervisor that said "Go fuck yourselves," Rolling Stone reported. "Then I was like, 'Oh, shit. I'm not going to be a police officer anymore,'" he said. Read the original article on Business Insider The 48 migrants that were flown to an affluent Massachusetts enclave were recruited by a woman sent from named Perla Huerta, the New York Times reported. Huerta, previously only known by her first name, was the point person sent from Florida who investigators believe solicited migrants in San Antonio to join flights headed toward Marthas Vineyard, a person familiar with the San Antonio sheriffs office investigation told the Times. According to military records reviewed by the Times, Huerta previously served as a combat medic and counterintelligence agent for two decades in the U.S. Army that included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. When the migrants landed in Marthas Vineyard, confusion swirled throughout the islands residents and the migrants themselves as to where, why and how they found themselves there. One migrant, Carlos Guanaguanay, told the Times that they "were tricked," into the flights. Follow the flight: Florida Gov. DeSantis flew 50 migrants from Texas to Martha's Vineyard Migrants gather with their belongings on Sept. 14, 2022, in Edgartown, Mass., on Martha's Vineyard. The migrants said they were approached by a woman who only identified herself by her first name as "Perla." They said she promised free housing and jobs if they jointed the flights. Huerta provided the migrants with food and housing prior to the flight. When the migrants landed, they had red folders that contained a map of the U.S. pointing to Massachusetts and a fake trifold pamphlet titled Refugee Migrant Benefits. In a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of the migrants, the materials were described as official-looking, and were not prepared by any Massachusetts state agency. When the two flights landed in Marthas Vineyard mid-September, Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis quickly took credit for chartering the flights. The political consequences: Could Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' migrant tactic backfire politically with key voting bloc? DeSantis move follows similar actions taken by Republican Govs. Greg Abbott of Texas and Doug Ducey of Arizona, who started state-funded programs to bus migrants to major metro cities run by Democrats to draw attention to the migrant crisis at the southern border. Story continues Political opponents have criticized the moves as political stunts. President Joe Biden said, "Republicans are playing politics with human beings, and using migrants as props. Authorities in Massachusetts also requested the Department of Justice to open a formal investigation into whether the flights could be considered instances of human trafficking. Some of the migrants, when they landed on Marthas Vineyard, told USA TODAY they felt misled and lied to about the conditions of their flight. Residents of Edgartown, Mass., help take care of migrants flown in on Sept. 14, 2022, to Martha's Vineyard. 'I simply feel misled': Migrants flown to Martha's Vineyard speak out Prior to the Times reporting, the League of United Latin American Citizens, the oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization, put out a $5,000 reward for anyone who could provide information leading to Huerta, who was only known at the time as Perla. Clearly, her actions were to use lies to lure men and women into being used as political pinatas without their knowledge," said national president of LULAC, Domingo Garcia, told the Cape Cod Times. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Migrants were 'tricked' into flights to Martha's Vineyard: report Screen grabs from surveillance video footage covering a hallway in the U.S. Capitol Senate Gallery allegedly shows Ronald Sandlin inside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. A Millington man is scheduled for sentencing in December after entering guilty pleas in relation to the Capitol riot in Washington, D.C. on January 6. Ronald Sandlin, 35, pleaded guilty Friday to conspiracy to interfere with the peaceful transition of power and assaulting law enforcement officers. According to court documents, Sandlin posted to Facebook about his intent to caravan to Washington D.C. in late December and was seeking donations. He is also alleged to have worked alongside two other men, Nathaniel DeGrave and Josiah Colt, and the three discussed shipping guns to Sandlin's home in Tennessee. Two days before the attack, Sandlin posted a picture of Colt holding a gun in bed to Facebook. Sandlin watched the "Stop the Steal" rally at a restaurant near the Ellipse, before live-streaming a call-to-arms. 'Have mercy on me!' Accused Capitol rioter who had lived in Memphis area ordered detained "Sandlin live-streamed a video in which he called on 'other patriots' to 'take the Capitol,'" a press release from the Department of Justice said. "In the video, Sandlin stated four times that 'freedom is paid for with blood.'" According to the press release, the three men then went to the Capitol together, wearing face masks, helmets, and shin guards. Sandlin was alleged to be carrying a knife and DeGrave was alleged to be carrying bear spray. After climbing dismantled barricades, they entered through the upper west terrace door. "While inside, Sandlin and DeGrave pushed against officers guarding an exterior door to the Capitol Rotunda, slowly forcing the door open and letting a mob stream inside. Sandlin shouted at the officers, 'You're going to die, get out of the way,' before later grabbing an officer's helmet," the press release said. While in the Capitol, Sandlin stole a book from the desk of a Senate-side office, picked up an oil painting, and smoked weed in the Capitol Rotunda. The painting was eventually taken off his shoulder by other rioters. Story continues The DOJ said Sandlin left the Capitol at about 3:16 p.m., about an hour after he and his partners entered. Colt entered a guilty plea July 14, 2021, and DeGrave entered a guilty plea June 27, 2022. Sandlin was arrested January 28, 2021, and is slated to be sentenced on December 9 in Washington, D.C. He could face up to 28 years in prison for the charges, along with possible fines and court costs. Lucas Finton is a news reporter with The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at Lucas.Finton@commercialappeal.com and followed on Twitter @LucasFinton. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Millington man enters guilty plea for role in January 6 attack The Daily Beast Terence Patrick/CBS via GettyFamed restaurateur and Instagram maven Keith McNally has revoked his ban on James Corden from one of his restaurants after the late-night host apologized over allegations of rude behavior toward staff.James Corden just called me and apologized profusely, McNally confirmed, welcoming him back to the restaurant while claiming all is forgiven.In an Instagram post on Monday, McNally complimented Corden as a hugely gifted comedian before ripping into the Brit as a ti I'm surprised by some of the things I find in the "American" section. Alexis McSparren I moved from the US to Dublin, Ireland, in 2019, and there are some foods I miss from home. Unfortunately, the "American" section at my grocery store is small (or nonexistent) and pricey. Boxes of American cereal can cost over $10, and I've found prepackaged boxes of Dunkin' doughnuts. The "American" aisle here seems to rely mainly on nostalgia. I don't really remember drinking Calypso back home. Alexis McSparren The brands in the American section are instantly recognizable, like Betty Crocker, Pop-Tarts, and Hershey's. The aisles are also usually decked out in American flags and bright, poppy neon imagery that entices shoppers to come over to see what all the commotion is about. For me, "American food" means my grandma's Southern homestyle cooking or a classic hot dog at a ball game. But in Ireland, it seems to just mean preservatives, sugar, and nostalgia. I'm always baffled at the selection because most of it is stuff I would never really choose back home. For example, Calypso seems to be everywhere over here, marketed as an American fan favorite. But I don't remember anyone drinking these, except maybe in the early 2000s. The aisles seem to thrive off of that little bit of nostalgia. I've been disappointed by the lack of variety. I have to hunt a little for my American favorites. Alexis McSparren In Ireland, an American food aisle isn't a given. Rather, some select stores have a small section devoted to American delicacies. Boutique novelty shops namely specialty stores that sell only candy and sweets are more likely to contain multiple shelves of American exports. These spots have become popular among American expats who are scrounging for a small taste of home. Unfortunately, the options are very limited, especially compared to our UK counterparts. Every time I make a trip to London, I make sure to bring back lots of my favorite American-brand goodies that I can't seem to find as easily in Ireland. I always find the selection of candy puzzling. Most of the candies available aren't my first choice. Alexis McSparren Unsurprisingly, the American sections I find in stores are always packed with lots of candy. But things like Nerds, Sour Patch Kids, and Jolly Ranchers are usually front and center. Story continues I've always considered those to be second-tier candies, and they wouldn't really be something to write home about to people who've never tried them. I have a theory that other countries tend to think the most popular American candies are the ones with the most colorful and eclectic packaging. Occasionally, there'll also be some varieties of M&M's, Reese's, and Hershey's. These usually come with a much higher price tag than the Nerds and Sour Patch Kids, though. I can't stop myself from reaching for the Betty Crocker cake mixes over the Irish brands. There are usually a good number of Betty Crocker mixes. Alexis McSparren While perusing the American offerings, I often come across at least one whole shelf with a variety of Betty Crocker baking mixes and packaged icings. I've tried British- and Irish-branded baking mixes, but they just don't taste the same. I find myself constantly reaching for Betty when I feel the urge to bake. I've even noticed the Betty Crocker baking mixes have started to move out of the American section and into the general baking aisles at a lower price. I never realized how many flavors of gum there are in the US. There are lots of fruity flavors in America. Alexis McSparren A boutique sweet shop I visited had a shelf of wild gum flavors that made me laugh. It featured an array of flavors from Trident, including Tropical Twist and Island Berry Lime. Here in Ireland, stores usually only carry one or two brands at most, and the flavor options typically consist of mint and spearmint. Occasionally, you can also find other standard flavors, like strawberry or bubblegum. Dr. Pepper is seen as the elixir of life for Americans. The shops here sell "American cans" of soda. Alexis McSparren In any American section, there are usually several exported sodas and sugary drinks most of them centered around different varieties of Dr. Pepper. When I first moved to Ireland, it was a rarity for me to find Dr. Pepper. I'd get so excited every time I managed to find one. But these days, like many other American products, it's becoming more common to see a Dr. Pepper sitting alongside the normal Coca-Cola and Fanta options at any Irish gas station or convenience store. American alcohol brands don't fare very well over here, apparently. I love living in Ireland, but I still get nostalgic for the US. Alexis McSparren There's usually some American beer in the alcohol aisles of Irish grocery stores or liquor stores. Sadly for the US, it looks like American favorites like Budweiser, Coors, and Miller haven't caught on in the Emerald Isle. I found a big basket of American beer bottles that were marked down to 1 ($0.98) so the store could get rid of the stock. Breakfast cereals are usually the most expensive item in the American section. One box costs almost $10. Alexis McSparren Breakfast cereals usually take up the bulk of the space in any American section. There's box after box of choices, which helps to make the section look so bright and colorful, I suppose. They're also always some of the most expensive items a single box of Cheerios costs nearly 10 ($9.84). Apparently, whether or not Pop-Tarts are American depends on the flavor. Some flavors are in the American section and others are in the main aisles. Alexis McSparren Similar to breakfast cereal, there are lots of Pop-Tart flavors adorning the shelves of every classic American section. But over in the normal aisles, Pop-Tarts are also usually sold next to other regular Irish and British breakfast items. The main difference comes down to the flavors. Strawberry and blueberry are almost always in the normal breakfast aisle at a reasonable price. But more extravagant flavors like red-velvet cupcake and hot-fudge sundae are sold in the American section with a steep price increase. Oreos are another popular expatriate item. There's still a variety of Oreo flavors here. Alexis McSparren Like Pop-Tarts, Oreos are another item that can't decide if it's fully American or not. Plain Oreos (and some more typical varieties like "golden" and double-stuffed) are in the regular aisles with biscuits and cookies. But flavors like strawberry cheesecake and brownie are reserved for the American section. Lidl in Ireland advertised an entire American-food week. There were deals on New York cheesecake and American corn dogs. Alexis McSparren Lidi, a budget grocer similar to Aldi, has only found its way to a few cities in the US. But in Ireland, the store advertises a whole week of "American" products, including peanut butter, pancake mixes, jarred pickles, and fried mozzarella sticks. Apparently, this is an annual occurrence every June. I also recently stumbled across an American-themed brand from Lidl called McEnnedy, which sells classic American items ranging from frozen waffles to frozen corn dogs all in decorative red, white, and blue packaging. I never knew the US had its own style of pancakes. There were boxes of American pancake mix as well as shakeable bottles. Alexis McSparren Pancakes are very common in Ireland. But they're more similar to French crepes in that they're thin, folded over, and usually served with lemon and sugar. Every time I ask why it's not just called a crepe, I'm met with a blank stare. I've made my Irish partner American-style "fluffy" pancakes with maple syrup, and he's now hooked on the US version. Whenever we see American pancake mix and maple syrup on sale in a store, we stock up. Dunkin' has made its way to Irish stores. There are prepackaged boxes of Dunkin' doughnuts. Alexis McSparren Dunkin' is primarily a US chain, and though there are some locations in the UK, the shop hasn't made its way to Ireland yet. Recently, though, I've noticed that small convenience stores and gas stations stock a small selection of Dunkin' doughnuts. They're always on a small cardboard stand in the corner of the store if you blinked, you might miss it. They come in packages of two or four doughnuts. But every time I've gotten them, they've been dry and hard, as if they were shipped straight from America weeks ago. That doesn't stop me from coming back and getting them time after time, though. The hold TGI Fridays has on Ireland is stronger than I would've ever imagined. I didn't know TGI Fridays made so many chips. Alexis McSparren I've noticed more and more TGI Fridays snack options popping up in American food sections. Items such as mac-and-cheese party bites and bacon-ranch potato skins are frequently on the shelves. I don't recall ever seeing these snacks in the chips aisle back home. But TGI Fridays remains a popular restaurant here in Dublin. It always makes me laugh when my partner mentions that he had his first date there, long ago. Items like Marshmallow Fluff and coffee creamer are more of a rarity in Ireland. I came across a jar of strawberry Fluff. Alexis McSparren Marshmallow Fluff (and marshmallows in general) isn't regularly sold in stores over here. But I've seen strawberry-flavored Marshmallow Fluff in the American section, which I don't even remember seeing in the US. I can understand why there's not a huge need in Ireland for Fluff. But what baffles me more is that coffee creamer hasn't become widely available here yet, especially considering how popular coffee has become in Ireland. I've seen a few basic flavors of Coffee Mate creamer, but nothing compared to the endless seasonal options in the US. Plus, a small bottle of creamer goes for a whopping 10 ($9.84). I could understand the steep price if it was pumpkin-spice flavored, but it was just French vanilla. Kraft mac and cheese will always be an American staple. Kraft isn't my favorite brand of mac and cheese. Alexis McSparren It's almost guaranteed that a few boxes of Kraft mac and cheese will be found in any American section. But I always get my hopes up that one day, I might stumble across my ultimate comfort food: Velveeta. It's never happened yet, and I don't think international stores will ever truly understand my hardship. Old El Paso is single-handedly fueling the Tex-Mex industry here. There's usually a Mexican-inspired section at the store. Alexis McSparren Next to the American foods, there's usually a smaller "Tex-Mex"/"Mexican" section. But really, it looks more like an Old El Paso marketing stand because that's usually the only brand. Old El Paso is fine, in my opinion, and that's just it. In the US, it's the cheap stuff that I'd only purchase if the good stuff was sold out. But I take what I can get around here. The decision to buy something is often an emotional one. I buy some brands just because of the familiarity. Alexis McSparren Regular baking soda is sold in the baking aisle (in a bottle, oddly enough). But Arm & Hammer baking soda comes with a price increase in the American section. For some reason, I still find myself buying the orange box to put in the fridge to get rid of odors, just like my grandma always did when I was growing up. A quick search on Walmart shows it sells for $0.98 cents in the US, but I'm happy to pay 2.65 ($2.61) for it here. When it all comes down to it, American branding, familiarity, and nostalgia all play a big factor in what I ultimately decide to buy. Read the original article on Insider University of Missouri Ukrainian student Vlad Sazhen on Thursday joined most of the world in condemning Russia's annexation of four Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine, calling it meaningless. Sazhen spoke in Gateway Residence Hall. His girlfriend, MU Ukrainian student Alina Rohulia, wasn't feeling well. "I think it's obvious on an international level it means nothing," Sazhen said of the announced annexation. It's the same as if Ukrainian President Volodmyr Zelenskyy claimed Moscow as part of Ukraine, he said. "It's just another pretext for Russia to escalate the situation," Sazhen said. The referendum vote also was a sham, he said. "No referendum should be done with weapons," Sazhen said. Russian soldiers went from house to house with ballots during the referendum vote. A friend in Russian-occupied Mariupol pretended to be under 18 and told the soldiers the adults weren't home when they came to his house, Sazhen said. Russian President Vladimir Putin has implemented a mobilization of troops to fight in Ukraine, with some reporting that 300,000 soldiers may be recruited. Sazhen said nothing is limiting Putin to 300,000 soldiers. The mobilization has resulted in protests in Russia, but Sazhen downplayed the Russian protests as "pitiful" and "embarrassing." "They don't know how to protest," Sazhen said. "They are slaves and they are too afraid to protest against their czar." Sazhen praised protests in Dagestan, a Muslim region of Russia that has had the most soldier deaths in the invasion. "I applaud Dagestan," Sazhen said. "People in Dagestan were protesting very heavily." In a campus talk Thursday, retired U.S. Ambassador Allan Mustard said Russian military equipment is obsolete. Told of the ambassador's remarks, Sazhen said some to the equipment is obsolete. He displayed a video of rusted AK-47s on his phone. Russia has enough working weapons to continue to kill Ukrainians and damage buildings, though, he said. Story continues "A lot of it works as it should, unfortunately," Sazhen said. An example is a rocket attack in a civilian area of Dnipro this week that killed at least four people, including members of three generations of one family. Sazhen's mother, in Kyiv, planned to travel to his and Rohulia's hometown of Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine on Saturday. Rockets are again falling near his grandmother's house in Kharkiv, causing her stress, he said. "My mother, she misses her very strongly," Sazhen said of the planned quick visit. While there, she plans to retrieve from their apartment winter clothes they left behind and some of his sister's toys, he said. Positive news last week was a prisoner swap that resulted in the return of Ukrainian soldiers captured from a steel plant in Mariupol, Sazhen said. He did better than he expected on last week's exams in thermodynamics and statistics, and Rohulia also did well on her differential equations exam, Sazhen said. Roger McKinney is the education reporter for the Tribune. You can reach him at rmckinney@columbiatribune.com or 573-815-1719. He's on Twitter at @rmckinney9. This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: MU Ukrainian student dismisses Russian annexation of territory Scouted/The Daily Beast/Amazon. Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. Despite years of prohibition, cannabis has obviously influenced our culture. More than 90 percent of Americans support weed legalization for medical and/or recreational usage, according to Pew Research Center. And as weed becomes more ubiquitous, you can expect to see the plant evolve from a dry, smoking herb to an agricultural Swiss Army knife. Food, beverages, skincare, personal lubricant, you name itcan all be infused with THC, cannabiss psychoactive compound. Cooking with cannabis can seem intimidating for weed newbies, but its actually one of the most personalized ways to start consuming the plant. Instead of buying edibles from the dispensary and worrying about how many milligrams of THC will be too much, a cannabis home cook has full control over how much weed goes into their edibles. Plus, the act of infusing edibles with active THC doesnt require any skills you didnt already learn in high school chemistry class. The only tools required are your usual baking and cooking supplies, a bag of weed, and a recipe. We cant tell you what weed to buy (yet), but we can recommend the best cookbooks for cannabis-infused edibles. The Art of Weed Butter Weed-infused butter, or cannabutter, is one of the essential building blocks of cannabis cooking. Master its art, and you have mastered half of all edible recipes. The active compounds in weed, such as THC and CBD, are fat soluble, which means they only release in fatty solutions. This is why eating just dried flower is, besides being gross, not going to get you high. The Art of Weed Butter explains the simple chemistry and mechanics of infusing weed into dairy butter, coconut oil, and a range of other butter substitutes that can be saved in your refrigerator until youre ready to turn your green gold into brownies, cookies, mac and cheese, and more. Buy The Art of Weed Butter at Amazon, $15 Story continues Edibles for Beginners: A Cannabis Cookbook Lets say youre not just a beginner to cannabis cookingyoure new to cannabis, period. Then Edibles for Beginners is for you. Besides the basics of infusing, the cookbook introduces and explains more than 20 popular strains, the health benefits of the plant, and how to measure your dosage to avoid over-imbibing. The low-dose, deliciously accessible recipes are perfect for people just starting out with both cooking and cannabis. Buy Edibles for Beginners: A Cannabis Cookbook at Amazon, $13 The Vegan Cannabis Cookbook: Vegan Recipes With so many edibles dependent on butter as the key infused ingredient, its hard to find vegan recipes. Enter The Vegan Cannabis Cookbook, with a variety of different recipes totally free of animal products like eggs and butter. Using only plant-based ingredients, the recipes include Almond and Banana Cannabis Vegan Ice Cream, No Bake Cannabis Brownie Bites, and Coconut and Cannabis Lemon Tart. Buy The Vegan Cannabis Cookbook: Vegan Recipes at Amazon, $7 The Official High Times Cannabis Cookbook High Times is cannabis culture. The counterculture magazine, founded in 1974, is one of the longest-running publications about weed and the people who love it. In its almost 50 years of writing about weed, theyve collected a few edibles recipes. This cookbook is special because it includes a ton of savory entree edibles, like nachos and spring rolls, plus THC twists on classic desserts. Buy The Official High Times Cannabis Cookbook at Amazon, $19 Bong Appetit: Mastering the Art of Cooking with Weed From the hit Viceland TV series Bong Appetit comes this awesome cookbook chock full of recipes and advice for foodies who want to take their edibles game to the level of fine dining. Of course, the book includes a brownie recipe, but those with a higher caliber palette might enjoy trying the weed chimichurri or the cannabutter basted chicken. Buy Bong Appetit: Mastering the Art of Cooking with Weed at Amazon, $27 The Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook With more than a hundred recipes collected from cannabis chefs across the country, its hard to find more variety in edibles cuisine than with The Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook. From sweet to savory, the cookbook covers infusing dishes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, plus cocktail hour. Plus, the buyers guide includes tips for which strains to buy for which recipes or desired effects. Buy The Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook at Amazon, $18 Cannabis Drinks: Secrets to Crafting CBD and THC Beverages If you know anyone working in the cannabis industry right now, you might have heard the chatter about weed-infused beverages. They are the weed worlds next big thing, and the alcohol industrys worst nightmare. Cannabis Drinks teaches you how to seamlessly blend your pot infusions with coffee, tea, juice, smoothies, and more liquids for easy sipping. The cocktails section will teach you how to adapt beloved cocktail recipes like margaritas and Aperol spritz for an alcohol-free high happy hour, with no fear of a hangover tomorrow. Buy Cannabis Drinks: Secrets to Crafting CBD and THC Beverages at Amazon, $20 MORE FROM SCOUTED: Dont forget to check out our coupon site to find more health and fitness deals, including Vitacost coupons, Dicks Sporting Goods coupons, Walmart coupons, and Macys coupons. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Just hours before jury selection was set to begin, a judge granted a continuance on Monday in the capital murder trial of an Arlington man accused in the death of a 2-year-old girl in 2018. Judge Lee Gabriel granted the motion from attorneys Michael Campbell Jr. of Fort Worth, Andrew Wilkerson of Dallas and Shehzad Shaikh of Hurst, who are representing 42-year-old Derick Roberson. The new trial date is Nov. 4 in 297th District Court in Fort Worth. The state just filed a new case a few weeks ago, the same charge, but the language is different, Campbell said Monday. We needed time to review it. Gabriel is the new judge for the trial after Judge David Hagerman, who presides in the 297th District Court, recused himself last week from the case. Roberson is accused of failing to intervene in the physical abuse that a woman inflicted on a 2-year-old girl who died in 2018 at an Arlington hospital. Roberson and Shamonica Jackson had custody of 2-year-old Aniyah Darnell in 2018. Jackson is accused of abusing Aniyah and causing her death. Jackson also is charged with capital murder in the case and her trial is pending. Prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty for Roberson or Jackson. Roberson and Jackson began caring for Aniyah in August 2018, but Jackson later told Arlington police she had grown frustrated with the child for going to the bathroom in her clothes. According to an affidavit obtained by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram in 2018, Jackson hit the child with a belt and her hand to teach the girl a lesson. Jackson told police the girl had a bad injury, described as a burn, on her rear, but she had not taken the girl to the hospital. Instead Jackson tried home remedies to treat the injury and continued to discipline the girl by hitting her, according to the affidavit. The girl was found unresponsive at the Las Lomas Apartments at 816 Timberlake Drive in southeast Arlington. Police arrived at the apartment about 1:30 a.m. and found a group of people trying to leave in a car. Story continues Aniyah died about 2:15 a.m. on Nov. 17, 2018, in the emergency room of Medical City Arlington, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office. A forensic pathologist determined the cause of Aniyahs death was battered child with dehydration and its manner was homicide. During the period in which they had custody of Aniyah, Roberson was aware that Jackson repeatedly struck the girl, and gave her a bath that caused severe burns to her buttocks and foot, prosecutors allege. Roberson failed to intervene in the physical abuse that Jackson inflicted on Aniyah, the state contends. After the belt beating, Roberson did not seek medical attention for the girl and did not perform CPR on her, prosecutors allege. Two other children at the home were put into the custody of Child Protective Services, police said. Jackson had been caring for Aniyah for her biological mother, whom police didnt identify. A 4-year-old girl from DeKalb died in a car crash Saturday in an unincorporated part of Virgil Township in Kane County, police said. Kane County Sheriffs officials in a news release said they are investigating the cause of the crash, which occurred around 6:40 p.m. Saturday near Route 38 and Francis Road. Advertisement A 20-year-old man from DeKalb was driving a Chrysler 200 eastbound on Route 38 when the car crossed the center line into westbound traffic, striking a Jeep Compass with a 30-year-old woman from DeKalb and her 4-year-old daughter inside, sheriffs officials said. After hitting the Jeep, the Chrysler also crashed into a Subaru Forester driven by a 30-year-old woman from Washington that was traveling westbound on Route 38, according to the release. Advertisement The woman who was driving the Jeep was flown to Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove with non-life threatening injuries. Her 4-year-old daughter was initially taken to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva and airlifted to Luries Children Hospital in Chicago, where she was later pronounced dead. Sheriffs officials said the 4-year-old was properly secured in a child safety seat at the time of the crash. The driver of the Chrysler was taken to Delnor and later transferred to Loyola Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries, according to the release. The driver of the Subaru was treated and released at the scene. No citations have been issued as of Monday and Kane County Sheriffs officials continue to investigate the crash. Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at 630-444-1103. mejones@chicagotribune.com BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) A theater in Hungary's capital will sit through a cold and quiet winter after its managers chose to shut it down rather than pay skyrocketing utility prices that are putting a squeeze on businesses and cultural institutions across Europe. The 111-year-old Erkel Theatre in Budapest, one of three performance spaces of the prestigious Hungarian State Opera, will close its doors in November after exponentially rising energy bills made heating the 1,800-seat building unsustainable. We had to decide how we can save," said Szilveszter Okovacs, director of the Hungarian State Opera. "Even though it hurts to decide to close Erkel for a few months, its completely rational. The institution's energy bills have become "more expensive by eightfold, sometimes tenfold ... the order of magnitude is huge, Okovacs said. Something needed to be done because, after all, peoples wages ... are the most important. The temporary closure of the Erkel Theatre is just one of many cases of cultural institutions in Hungary struggling to stay afloat as high inflation, a weakening currency and energy costs take a heavy financial toll. It's an example of the pain hitting countries across Europe as energy prices skyrocket because of Russia's war in Ukraine, forcing some factories to shut down, making life more expensive and fueling fears of an impending recession. Hungary's government in July declared an energy emergency in response to rising prices and supply disruptions linked to Russia's war. It also made cuts to a popular utility subsidy program that since 2014 has kept the bills of Hungarians among the lowest in the 27-member European Union. As a result, many businesses and households saw natural gas and electric bills jump by as much as 1,000% from one month to the next. In an effort to curb energy consumption, Hungarys government ordered a 25% reduction in the use of electricity and natural gas in public buildings including in cultural institutions and mandated that their heating be kept to a maximum of 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit). Story continues Beata Barda, director of the Trafo House of Contemporary Arts in Budapest, said her theater's electricity bills have risen threefold since June and that there's an uncertainty factor in what kind of gas bills they might receive going into winter. To cut costs, the theater will stage around two-thirds of its normal winter program, isolate parts of the building that don't need to be heated and reduce the frequency of rehearsals that require full stage lighting. Wed like to avoid shutting down or having to cancel performances, so obviously weve got to cut down in all sorts of ways," Barda said. With inflation in Hungary at nearly 16% and the national currency reaching historic lows against the dollar and euro, households too are struggling with rising prices something which could lead to a decline in theater attendance and a subsequent spiral of financial troubles in the cultural industry, she said. Our audiences have wallets, too, and their expenses have also risen, Barda said. How able or willing will they be to come to the theater? This is a really important question. In the sprawling Comedy Theatre of Budapest, one of the oldest in the city, the lights in the building's ornamental lobby and winding corridors have been shut off, even on working days, to conserve energy. The gas bill for the 130,000-square-foot theater has gone from an annual 40 million Hungarian forints ($92,000) to 250 million ($577,000) a nearly sixfold increase. Until now, we could pay our utility bills with the ticket sales of two or three people out of every 100 in the audience, said the theaters financial director, Zoltan Madi. Now, we must forward the ticket price of every second person toward paying our utilities. The struggles faced by theaters in Hungary are not limited to the capital. Local governments around the country have announced that theaters, cinemas, museums and other cultural institutions must close for winter to avoid getting hit with high heating and electricity costs. As the energy crisis deepens, more of Hungary's theaters could be threatened with closure something stage director Krisztina Szekely of the Katona Jozsef Theater in Budapest said would have negative consequences for the cultural life of Hungarians. "I believe that if these institutions falter or are unavailable in any city or society, it will have a significant impact on the mental state of the society," she said. STANISLAV POHORILOV MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 20:28 Elon Musk, the renowned businessman and Head of Tesla company, has offered his Twitter followers a poll, in which he stated his position on the issue of the annexed Crimea by Russia. Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has replied to him, clearing up the Ukrainian governments stance. Source: Musk on Twitter; Podoliak on Twitter Details: In the post, the American businessman set out his vision of how to achieve "peace between Ukraine and Russia", without taking into account the real state of affairs, "Ukraine-Russia Peace: - Redo elections of annexed regions under UN supervision. Russia leaves if that is the will of the people. - Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783 (until Khrushchevs mistake). - Water supply to Crimea assured. - Ukraine remains neutral," Musk wrote. Ukraine-Russia Peace: - Redo elections of annexed regions under UN supervision. Russia leaves if that is will of the people. - Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783 (until Khrushchevs mistake). - Water supply to Crimea assured. - Ukraine remains neutral. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 3, 2022 Later, Musk posted a new poll on Twitter; this time, it concerned not only Russian-annexed Crimea, but also occupied Donbas. "Lets try this then: the will of the people who live in the Donbas & Crimea should decide whether theyre part of Russia or Ukraine", he wrote in the polls description and offered to vote "yes" or "no". Lets try this then: the will of the people who live in the Donbas & Crimea should decide whether theyre part of Russia or Ukraine Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 3, 2022 In response to Musk's poll, Mykhailo Podoliak, Adviser to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, proposed another one. Story continues Details: In particular: "Ukraine liberates its territories. Including the annexed Crimea. Russia undergoes demilitarisation and mandatory denuclearisation so it can no longer threaten others. War criminals go through an international tribunal." .@elonmusk there is a better peace plan. 1. liberates its territories. Including the annexed Crimea. 2. undergoes demilitarization and mandatory denuclearization so it can no longer threaten others. 3. War criminals go through international tribunal. Lets vote? (@Podolyak_M) October 3, 2022 Andrii Melnyk, who is about to leave the office of former Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany, has also reacted to Musk's proposal. Fuck off is my very diplomatic reply to you @elonmusk Andrij Melnyk (@MelnykAndrij) October 3, 2022 Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Nasa has officially pushed back the launch of the Artemis I moon mission to mid-November in the wake of Hurricane Ians destructive impact on southern states including Florida. The American space agency announced on Friday that it is now working towards a launch period that opens between 12 and 27 November. Hurricane Ian had weakened to a tropical storm by the time it reached the Nasa Kennedy Space Center in Florida last week. Nonetheless, Nasa moved the Artemis I mission Space Launch System (SLS) moon rocket and the Orion spacecraft to the Vehicle Assembly Building to wait out the storm. After conducting inspections on Friday to assess the impacts of the hurricane, Nasa said it did not find any damage to Artemis flight hardware, adding that facilities are in good shape with only minor water intrusion in a few locations. Teams are planning to conduct additional inspections and prepare for the next launch attempt. This includes retesting the flight termination system, and analysing the scope of work while the rocket is in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), as well as identifying a specific date for the next launch attempt, Nasa noted. So far, the Artemis I mission has faced multiple setbacks, including fuel leaks, engine troubles, a building fire, and most recently the category 4 hurricane as Nasa attempts to launch before the end of the year. The first launch attempt on 29 August was scrubbed due to engine cooling problems and a subsequent attempt on 3 September was also cancelled due to a hydrogen fuel leak. Nasa then made repairs to the rocket and demonstrated it wouldnt leak hydrogen in a test on 21 September. Just as the space agency was assessing the feasibility of attempting launch again last week, Hurricane Ian hit. With the Category 4 hurricane sustaining winds of about 250 kph (155 mph), Nasa decided to roll the rocket back into its hangar. Then a fire alarm was triggered in the VAB due to an electrical problem igniting a rope which led to the evacuation of the rocket hangar. Story continues Nasa confirmed on Friday that there was no damage to Artemis flight hardware and that facilities are in good shape. The space agency will attempt to launch again in mid-November but the exact date has not been decided yet. Focusing efforts on the November launch period allows time for employees at Kennedy to address the needs of their families and homes after the storm and for teams to identify additional checkouts needed before returning to the pad for launch, the space agency said in a statement. NASAs Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of a solar flare as seen in the bright flash on the top right on Oct. 2, 2022. The image shows a subset of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights the extremely hot material in flares and which is colorized in orange (NASA/SDO) Nasa has released an alert after the Sun emitted a strong solar flare late on Sunday. Solar flares are intense blasts of energy that emerge from the volatile atmosphere of the Sun. Such eruptions can lead to problems for radio communications, electric power grids, navigation systems and lead to risks for astronauts and spacecraft. The flare comes as emergency responders in the US look to respond to Hurricane Ian, and so may have experienced problems with radio communications which are used when phone networks are down as well as navigation signals. The latest flare could just be the beginning of a number of flares and coronal mass ejections in the days to come. The world is now facing a large complex region on the Sun, which could lead to more activity. The new flare is an X1 flare. X is the most powerful possible class of flare though the 1 indicates that it is the lowest possible flare to reach that classification. It led to an alert posted on the Nasas website, which was also shared by senior Nasa administrator Thomas Zurbuchen. The space agency released an image of the flare as it left the Sun, using its Solar Dynamics Observatory. That spacecraft continually monitors the Sun, in part to watch for such flares. The latest flare was emitted from the Sun on Sunday, peaking at 4.25pm eastern time. It led to radio blackouts, according to NOAA, and was joined by a solar wind that could cause power grid problems and cause difficulties for satellites. The other coronal mass ejections or CMEs that may head towards Earth may start arriving in the coming days, after they left the Sun from that large sunspot on its northwest edge, according to the Met Office. Space weather may continued to be unsettled for much of the rest of the week, it said. RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) North Carolinas long-litigated photo voter identification law was appraised at the state Supreme Court on Monday. Justices heard arguments on whether it was reasonable for trial judges to throw out the law that they determined was tainted by racial bias and designed to help Republicans retain their grip on the legislature. The voter ID law approved by the General Assembly in December 2018, but it has never been enforced, as the requirement has been blocked by both federal or state courts over time. That remains the case for next months midterms. An attorney for the Republican legislative leaders said a majority of trial judges conducting a trial on the law last year got both facts and conclusions wrong when they struck down the law. Those judges failed to take into account the bipartisan nature of its passage and rule changes that would eliminate any disadvantage that Black voters would have in carrying a photo ID, lawyer Pete Patterson said. People without qualifying IDs would still able to cast ballots by filling out a form. This is the most forgiving, reasonable impediment (form) provision in the nation, Patterson told the justices in urging them to uphold the law or void the trial court's decision. The notion that this was meant to be passed for partisan entrenchment just does not match up with the evidence. But minority voters represented by lawyer Jeff Loperfido urged the Supreme Court to keep intact the lower court ruling, saying it's not the job of the justices to substitute a different result if the trial judges' decision is reasonable. The question before this court is whether that conclusion is supported by findings of fact based on competent evidence, Loperfido said. And the answer to that question is an unequivocal yes. Justices didnt say when they would issue an opinion following an hour of arguments at the old Chowan County Courthouse in Edenton. But its likely to occur by the end of the year given that Senior Associate Justice Robin Hudson is retiring and Associate Justice Sam Ervin IV may lose a reelection bid. Hudson and Ervin are part of the four-member Democratic majority on the seven-member court. Story continues Republicans have been trying for over a decade to implement photo ID. A 2013 voter ID law that was later struck down was carried out in 2016 primary elections. The legislature then put a photo ID constitutional amendment on the ballot in November 2018, which voters approved. Lawmakers followed mere weeks late to pass a separate law implementing voter ID rules, which was Monday's topic. Republicans with large enough majorities at the time overrode Democratic Gov. Roy Coopers veto of the bill, resulting immediately in a lawsuit filed by minority voters. In a 2-to-1 ruling following a three-week trial, judges found in September 2021 the implementing law was rushed through and discriminated against Black voters, violating the equal protections contained the state constitution. In turn, according to the voters who sued, the law made it harder for Black citizens to cast ballots that could erode GOP power. The majority wrote dozens of Republicans, who voted both for the 2013 voter ID law and the 2018 law, knew of earlier evidence that Black residents had less access to voter ID than others. A few Democrats voted for the 2018 law, one of them a Black senator who worked with Republicans to develop it. But the minority voters who sued diminished the Democrats' role. Lawyers for the Republican legislative leaders said voter ID is designed to bolster confidence in elections. Thirty-five states request or require some ID at the polls, with about half asking for photo identification, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. In August, the Supreme Courts 4-3 Democratic majority opened the door to voiding the November 2018 voter ID constitutional amendment because lawmakers who agreed to put it on the ballot were elected from districts blemished by illegal racial gerrymandering. The majority sent the case back to a lower court judge to accumulate more evidence. That decision didnt moot the voter ID lawsuit that was heard Monday. A federal lawsuit filed by the state NAACP and several local chapters and challenging the same November 2018 voter ID law still hasnt gone to trial. The case could become moot if the state Supreme Court agrees with the lower court that the law is unconstitutional. State law allows the justices to convene up to twice annually in the courthouse in Edenton, which is a former colonial capital about 115 miles (185 kilometers) northeast of Raleigh, the current capital of the state. The proceedings were livestreamed. Theres a push in Charlottes Plaza Midwood neighborhood to prevent a potentially disastrous situation involving a Duke Energy power pole, and it could happen at any moment. People living along Winter Street say a leaning power pole is about to fall on their property, now theyre worried it could start a fire or even hurt children in the area. Its not clear what exactly caused the pole to start leaning, but Duke Energy told Channel 9 that poles are maintained regularly. WATCH: SUV hangs from power pole after bad crash in uptown After complaining, neighbors say utility crews went out early in the summer and put a new pole in the ground. However, the wires and transformers were never moved over to the new pole. There hasnt been really any communication other than, Yes, its a problem, and well get to it, said Tracey Bissell, whose house sits nearby. A spokesperson for Duke Energy thanked us for bringing this to their attention and blamed the issue on a communication breakdown between Duke and another utility that owns the poles. Duke Energy says they are taking this issue seriously and added that a fix is coming as soon as possible. MORE: Lines block South Boulevard after overnight crash into power pole If you see power poles that have fallen or are sagging, Duke Energy urges you to call 800-228-8485 or contact a local emergency services department. Duke Energy says to consider all power lines --as well as trees, limbs, and anything else in contact with power lines-- energized and dangerous. (WATCH BELOW: Traffic Team 9 investigates uptick in crashes involving power poles across Charlotte) By Gopal Sharma KATHMANDU (Reuters) - Nepal's ruling coalition will provide incentives for exporters and lift import curbs as part of efforts to put the economy on a higher growth trajectory if it is returned to power in a general election next month, the finance minister said. Led by the centrist Nepali Congress party and a group of former Maoist rebels, the five-party alliance, which has been in government since July last year, hopes to win voters' confidence in the Nov. 20 vote for the 275-member parliament. Nepal, one of the poorest countries in Asia wedged between China and India, is recovering steadily after two years of the coronavirus pandemic and surging energy prices this year. "We'll focus on export promotion for which there are immense possibilities like in hydropower, steel, and cement to narrow the trade deficit rather than limiting imports," Finance Minister Janardan Sharma, a senior leader of the Nepal Communist Party (Maoist Centre), told Reuters in an interview on the weekend. Sharma said a ban on the import of cars, liquor, and mobile telephones could soon be lifted following an increase in foreign exchange reserves. In April, the government banned the import of 10 luxury items including cars and televisions after foreign currency reserves dipped. Curbs on many goods were later lifted. Foreign exchange reserves stood at $9.42 billion, sufficient to cover imports for eight months, Sharma said. ECONOMIC, POLITICAL STABILITY Sharma, a three-time parliamentarian who served as a Maoist guerrilla commander, said Nepal's recent economic woes and political stability would be a priority for voters in the election for the national parliament and seven state assemblies. Maoist rebels battled the government in Nepal, where China and India compete for influence, for a decade from 1996 before agreeing to a ceasefire and entering politics. But political stability has proven elusive with 10 different governments since the abolition of a 239-year-old monarchy in 2008. Story continues Sharma said the government had taken measures to conserve falling foreign exchange reserves and avoid the sort of economic crisis seen in one South Asian neighbour. "Some people were saying the economy was heading the Sri Lanka way," he said. With the growth of remittances from Nepali workers abroad and higher government spending, the economy was showing signs of recovery as reflected in a pickup in bank credit - rising 12.7% in mid-August compared with the previous month, he said. The government plans to launch big infrastructure projects including an international airport at Nijgadh in the southern plains and highways to boost growth to 8% this financial year, which began in mid-July, from 5.84% last year, he said. But critics and opposition parties say the economy is still facing huge problems. The Asian Development Bank said in a report last month Nepal's economic growth was likely to ease to 4.7% year-on-year this fiscal year, reflecting the tightening of monetary policy and higher inflationary pressures. Defending his government's performance, Sharma said experiments with single-party governments had failed to provide stability in the recent past. "We believe that voters will return the ruling alliance of parties with different ideologies to power for stability," he said. (Writing by Manoj Kumar; Editing by Robert Birsel) LAS VEGAS In a wide-ranging and mostly civil debate in Las Vegas, Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak and Republican challenger Joe Lombardo, the sheriff of Clark County, duked it out over education, taxes, inflation and abortion. Notably, they agreed on only one issue: that the 2020 election was not stolen. Asked by moderator Jon Ralston whether he agreed with former President Donald Trumps false claims that the last presidential election in Nevada was rigged, Lombardo said, No, I do not. There was modicum of fraud, but nothing to change the election, he said. Asked whether he thought Trump was a great president, Lombardo said, I wouldnt use that adjective. He was a sound president, he said, with policies that were beneficial to the country that helped move it forwards versus backwards. But about Trumps claims of 2020 election fraud, Lombardo said, It bothers me. Im not shying away from that, Lombardo said. "I dont stand by him in that aspect. Asked whether Trump, with such claims, undermined confidence in the system, Lombardo replied, Yes, he did. Youre never going to agree with anybody 100% and everything they do. Even in my own party, theres people that dont agree with 100% of what I present forward, but you know, you gotta look at the totality of the person and their leadership, Lombardo added, in reference to Trump. Lombardo, whom Trump endorsed, has said that he didnt think there was widespread fraud in the 2020 election in Nevada and that Joe Biden was legitimately elected president. But his latest comments marked a shift further away from Trump, putting more political distance between them less than a week before he is set to campaign with the former president and Republican Senate candidate Adam Laxalt at a large rally in Reno. Elizabeth Ray, a spokesperson for the Lombardo campaign, said Lombardo had been very consistent on where he has stood with election integrity and election fraud. Meanwhile, Sisolak, in a brief interview with reporters after the debate, criticized Lombardo for suggesting there was even a modicum of fraud in Nevada elections. Story continues Theres no fraud, Sisolak said. Sunday's 90-minute showdown, organized by the Nevada Independent news organization at a studio in Las Vegas, was expected to be the candidates only faceoff before Election Day. Lombardo and Sisolak, considered one of the most vulnerable Democratic governors in the U.S., havent agreed on any additional debates or town halls, although several have been proposed. The pair are locked in a tight race in the closely watched battleground state. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report has rated the race a toss-up, and RealClearPolitics latest polling average shows Lombardo leading Sisolak by 1.6 percentage points in the state, which Biden won in 2020 by 2.4 percentage points or a little less than 33,600 votes. Sisolak won his first term in 2018 against Laxalt, who is now running for the Senate, by about 4 percentage points. Image: Route 91 Harvest 5th Anniversary Sunrise Remembrance Ceremony (David Becker / Getty Images) Sisolak was asked whether he thought Biden whose approval rating in Nevada has slumped below 40% is a great president. He called Biden a very good president who inherited a lot of problems from Donald Trump that hes working through. A lot of what hes being accused of this inflation situation [is] not necessarily his fault, Sisolak said. He doesnt control the price of gasoline, no more than I control the price of a chicken and ground beef at the stores. So I think that the president has done well with what hes been presented with. Sisolak and Lombardo also sparred over education and abortion an issue on which Sisolak has accused Lombardo of frequently changing his positions. Asked to clarify his position on abortion, Lombardo maintained that, even though his personal belief is pro-life, abortion is legal under Nevada law until the 24th week of pregnancy. Its codified in law, he said. Theres nothing that the governor can do to change it. I have no intention of re-addressing the issue, he said. In May, Lombardo said he would support a voter referendum that would propose changing the law to ban abortion after the 13th week of pregnancy a position he has since disavowed. He has also said at various points that he would support parental notification measures and waiting periods for abortions. He said this year that he would, as governor, consider repealing an executive order implemented by Sisolak that created protections for women from out of state seeking abortion care in Nevada but last week he said he would commit to not repealing the order if he is elected. Asked about his changing support for the 13-week ban, Lombardo said he had thought about it more and evaluated. Asked whether, if he is elected, he would propose or support any measure that would weaken the right to abortion, Lombardo said, I would support the vote of the people. But after Ralston pointed out that the governor still has power to erode abortion protections, Lombardo asked the moderator to go through a list of specific measures including waiting periods and mandatory ultrasound scans and responded with a different answer to each one. Im supportive of whatevers the benefit to a woman and her baby, Lombardo said during the exchange. In a brief interview, Ray, the Lombardo campaign spokesperson, said Lombardo's position was that specifics about abortion access were issues that need to be decided by Nevadans and Nevadans alone." She said Lombardo would "be supportive of anyone bringing forward a ballot measure" about abortion restrictions, because Lombardo supports "the vote of the people." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The recent price decline of 22% in NICO Resources Limited's (ASX:NC1) stock may have disappointed insiders who bought AU$16m worth of shares at an average price of AU$0.77 in the past 12 months. Insiders purchase with the hope of seeing their investments increase in value over time. However, due to recent losses, their initial investment is now only worth AU$11m, which is not great. While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. View our latest analysis for NICO Resources NICO Resources Insider Transactions Over The Last Year In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when insider Deborah Collins-Corps bought AU$5.8m worth of shares at a price of AU$0.62 per share. That means that even when the share price was higher than AU$0.54 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. To us, it's very important to consider the price insiders pay for shares. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock if insiders have bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price. While NICO Resources insiders bought shares during the last year, they didn't sell. Their average price was about AU$0.77. This is nice to see since it implies that insiders might see value around current prices. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date! There are always plenty of stocks that insiders are buying. So if that suits your style you could check each stock one by one or you could take a look at this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them). Story continues Does NICO Resources Boast High Insider Ownership? Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Insiders own 29% of NICO Resources shares, worth about AU$14m. This level of insider ownership is good but just short of being particularly stand-out. It certainly does suggest a reasonable degree of alignment. So What Does This Data Suggest About NICO Resources Insiders? The fact that there have been no NICO Resources insider transactions recently certainly doesn't bother us. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Insiders do have a stake in NICO Resources and their transactions don't cause us concern. So while it's helpful to know what insiders are doing in terms of buying or selling, it's also helpful to know the risks that a particular company is facing. When we did our research, we found 2 warning signs for NICO Resources (1 is a bit unpleasant!) that we believe deserve your full attention. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here Some residents of Montgomery Place met this week to discuss safety concerns at the large apartment complex near Route 30 and 34 that was recently the site of a fatal shooting. (Denise Crosby / The Beacon-News) The thefts, including a string of catalytic converters last December, are one thing. The fights, domestics and otherwise, are another as is the drug dealing, some residents say. Advertisement But it was a homicide in broad daylight last week at Montgomery Place Apartments that became the final straw, and sent a group of already fed-up residents to the Montgomery Village Board meeting Monday night. There, 25-year-old Nikole Torres-Turnage confronted trustees about concerns for safety they insist have been rising along with the number of police calls to the complex on Reading Drive that its operators described as a premier destination for luxury living. Advertisement And now, after the shooting death of 42-year-old Joshua Correa in one of the buildings, they want officials to put more pressure on the owners of this massive new complex because, they insist, their own repeated requests for added security were falling on deaf ears. This push seems to be working. In the days following this meeting, the Michigan-based corporation has not only been in contact with village officials but is reaching out individually to some of these residents who have been most vocal about the problems. My attempts to connect with Edward Rose & Sons leaders were unsuccessful; but on Thursday, local property manager Anthony Workman told me we are very aware of the issues and that hes working with corporate on them. Residents are asking for locks to building entrances, as well as cameras both inside and outside, along with stricter background checks and income requirements, which they claim have been lowered as owners try to fill the 10 existing buildings and three more that will open soon in this 468-unit complex. We never thought we would have these issues in a place billed as luxury on its website, said Torres-Turnage, who has been leading the effort for tighter security measures. Montgomery Police say they are focusing on "a person of interest" in a fatal shooting that took place last week in one of the many buildings that are part of Montgomery Place apartment complex. (Denise Crosby / The Beacon-News) On Monday evening, hours before the board meeting, I met with her and a handful of other residents who all had personal stories to share about why they feel more vulnerable than when they moved into the resort-style complex that opened in early 2021. Karina Becker recalls last month when she and her husband witnessed a random person in the building aggressively kicking in the door of someone in the afternoon, with threats to shoot you in the face over a money debt. It was absolutely unnerving, said Becker, who called 911 but never learned the outcome of that police response. Advertisement One woman, who asked that her name not be used, told me her boyfriend was still struggling with some emotional fallout after being inside the building when the fatal shooting took place. Others insist they see drug deals going down right before their eyes. After last weeks homicide, Torres-Turnage suggested to management that an email go out to all residents informing them of the murder and asking for input on safety suggestions that could be passed along to the owners ... to no avail, she said. Even before Mondays board meeting, the village was aware of growing concerns at this development that is marketed to higher-income renters and created plenty of excitement when ground was broken. Trustee Matt Bauman says the complaints about Montgomery Place really got my attention when he began watching the multi-county scanner Facebook page and saw for himself that there was too much police activity happening in this complex that, in addition to being close to a popular shopping area, had a library branch right down the street. So we as a village need to do all we can to hold the management accountable for who they are renting to in order to make sure this community is safe. Montgomery Police Chief Phillip Smith, who spoke with residents in a closed-door session after Mondays board meeting, counts 240 police activities since the beginning of the year. The four catalytic converter thefts, he told me, were part of a wave of similar crimes by suspects that have since been arrested by Aurora police. Advertisement As of press time Thursday no arrests have been made for the recent fatal shooting, Smith said, but the department is focusing on a person of interest. Murder in anyones neighborhood, of course, is unnerving, he said. Still, while acknowledging police activity has increased, the chief maintains its not a huge spike in crime because the population has also risen in this complex that contains more than 600 people in a one square block area. He concurred, however, there is a problem with management. But after a Zoom meeting with corporate on Wednesday, Smith said owners are very receptive to addressing these concerns; and he expressed confidence all parties are on the right track. In the meantime, unsettled and unsafe, are the words Torres-Turnage uses to describe her feelings since the murder. She and other residents will continue to aggressively advocate for change because the majority of people at Montgomery Place are great neighbors, she said, who make up a tight-knit community .... and we dont want to move. All the more reason, insisted Bauman, the village needs to stay on this problem until a resolution can be achieved. If Montgomery wants to continue to have growth and development, officials cant ignore what could be perceived as a black eye, he insisted. Advertisement A lot of questions need to be asked and answered on how this place is being managed. The prosecution has rested its rebuttal case in the sentencing trial of Nikolas Cruz, the 24-year-old gunman who murdered 17 students and staff members in a mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School back on Valentines Day 2018. Closing arguments will now take place on Tuesday with jurors expected to begin deliberations within a matter of days where they will decide whether to sentence the Parkland shooter to life in prison or to death. During the states rebuttal, prosecutors have sought to show that Cruz is a sociopath who carefully planned the massacre for many months even years before carrying out one of the worst school shootings in US history. Clinical neuropsycholohgist Dr Robert Denney testified on Thursday that Cruz has antisocial personality disorder and borderline personality disorder but not fetal alcohol spectrum disorder as the defence has claimed. Jurors were also shown footage of Cruz telling the expert that he was sexually abused when he was nine years old by a boy who lived next door. Nikolas Cruz sentencing Parkland shooter claims he was sexually abused by neighbour Cruz was grossly exaggerating mental illness, says expert Two men accused of exploiting shooters brother Court sees footage of terrified students as gunshots ring out Cruz claimed he showed mercy before murdering victims over nasty look Cruz reveals reason he chose Valentines Day for attack Jurors see harrowing videos Cruz made before attack Monday 3 October 2022 17:00 , Rachel Sharp Jurors were shown harrowing videos Cruz made in the days before the mass shooting, where he described his plans to kill 20 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. In one of the videos, Cruz is off camera and is heard saying: Today is the day... all of the kids in school will run in fear and hide... I am nothing, I am no one, my life is nothing. With the power of my AR you will know who I am, he says. He calmly describes his plan to get an Uber to the school and then carry out the massacre. Story continues In one of the videos, he faces the camera and calmly details the key plans for the attack, laughing about murdering people. My name is Nik, he says at the start. Once he arrives at the school, he casually says then I shoot people down at the main courtyrard... and then people will die. My goal is 20 people, my location is Stoneman Douglas in Parkland, Florida. Its going to be a big event, he says. When you see me on the news youll all know who I am, Cruz says, breaking into a smile and laugh. Youre all going to die, he says, before making a shooting sound to the camera. Dr Scott testified that Cruz is calm, organised, speaking slowly in the videos which were made days before the shooting. Cruz reveals reason he chose Valentines Day for attack Monday 3 October 2022 17:10 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz revealed to Dr Scott his reasons for choosing Valentines Day for the mass shooting. Dr Scott told jurors that Cruz chose the holiday specifically because the day is difficult for him because he has no one to love and no one to love him. Cruz reveals reason he ended massacre when he did Monday 3 October 2022 17:30 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz revealed that the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School only came to an end because he couldnt find anyone to kill. In an interview in March 2022, Dr Scott is seen asking Cruz what led him to end the Valentines Day 2018 attack when he did. I couldnt find anyone to kill, Cruz replied. Cruz told Dr Scott how he tried to shoot through the windows of the freshman building and smash the glass so that he could open fire on the crowds of terrified students evacuating the school. But, he was unable to break through the glass. As a result, he left his AR-15 and tactical vest on the ground of the third floor of the building and fled the school among the crowd. Cruz claimed he showed mercy to victims before murdering them over nasty look' Monday 3 October 2022 18:10 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz claimed that he showed mercy to two of his victims before slaughtering them with his assault rifle because they gave him a nasty look. Cruz murdered Cara Loughran,14, and Meadow Pollack, 18, as they tried to huddle together in the alcove of a classroom door on the third floor. I think I showed mercy to those two girls, the killer told Dr Scott in the video interview played in court on Monday. I was going to walk away but they started to show nasty faces. When asked how he showed them mercy, he claimed he wasnt going to shoot them but then decided to because of a nasty look. I was thinking about shooting them but I didnt want to do it so was going to walk away down the hallway, he claimed. But they gave me a nasty look, he said, pulling down his Covid-19 face mask to pull a face. Cruz then claimed he thought they would try to stop him. I didnt even aim or anything, I just shot, he claimed. Cruz also claimed that the security guard also gave me a nasty look so I shot him in the head referring to athletic director Chris Hixon who died trying to save his students. Peter Wang also gave me a nasty look, claimed Cruz, of the 15-year-old Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadet. Cruz calmly describes graphic details of murders Monday 3 October 2022 18:30 , Rachel Sharp The video footage played in court on Monday morning shows Cruz calmly describing the graphic details of his murderous rampage. While he claimed so-called nasty looks spurred him on to kill some of his victims, this appeared to contradict other comments he made. Cruz described how he saw one of his victims freshman student Jaime Guttenberg crawling on the third floor and so I shot her in the back. When asked why, Cruz told Dr Scott: I told you, I wanted to kill as many people as I could... so I shot her in the back, I shot her twice. The gunman said he believed Peter Wang was the last person he shot, chillingly describing the horrific moment he shot the teenager in the head. His head blew up like a water balloon, Cruz calmly told the psychiatrist. Dr Scott returns to stand Monday 3 October 2022 19:34 , Rachel Sharp Dr Scott returned to the witness stand on Monday afternoon where he outlined the difference between antisocial personality disorder and neurodevelopmental disorder. The psychiatrist said that antisocial personality disorder is not a disorder closely tethered to... a particular brain abnormality. Instead, it is a behavioural issue. Cross-examination of Dr Scott begins Monday 3 October 2022 19:50 , Rachel Sharp The defence has begun its cross-examination of Dr Scott. Attorney Melisa McNeill questioned the psychiatrist about the records about Cruzs biological mother Brenda Woodard drinking while pregnant with him. During his direct testimony, Dr Scott raised doubts about how much Woodard abused alcohol at the time. Ms McNeill showed the court doctors notes revealing that Woodard lost weight between March and July 1998. Cruz was born that September. In June 1998, she was arrested for possession of cocaine. Other notes reveal that Woodard was concerned that she would test positive for drugs or alcohol. Dr Scott responded saying that the doctors notes say her concerns were because of a prescription drug she had been given. Court briefly interrupted over panic alarm Monday 3 October 2022 20:00 , Rachel Sharp The court proceedings were briefly interrupted after the judge said she accidentally pressed the panic button. Attorney Melisa McNeill was questioning Dr Scott under cross-examination when Judge Elizabeth Scherer suddenly stopped proceedings. The court was silent with both defence and prosecution attorneys appearing confused. The judge then apologised, saying she had accidentally pressed the alarm and telling the defence they could continue with questioning. Defence seeks to pick holes in Dr Scotts testimony Monday 3 October 2022 20:27 , Rachel Sharp The defence is seeking to pick holes in Dr Scotts testimony, raising questions about Cruzs test scores, how well planned the massacre was and some of the things he did on the day of the massacre. Dr Scott acknowledged that Cruz took an Uber pool to the school, carried his gun undisguised in a rifle bag across the school yard, didnt load the rifle before arriving at the school, didnt try to break into locked classrooms, left the gun behind and then hung out in the nearby area in the aftermath instead of making an attempt to flee. Attorney Melisa McNeill said that Cruz also lost his phone in the massacre and didnt buy new clothes so that he wouldnt be recognised, even though he had more than $300 in cash. Ms McNeil is seeking to raise doubts about the experts diagnosis that Cruz has antisocial personality disorder not FASD. Dr Scott explains Cruzs various disorders Monday 3 October 2022 21:04 , Megan Sheets As cross-examination continues, Dr Scott has underlined differing scientific views of the disorders Cruz has, pointing out that experts frequently disagree. He made that point as the defence drew attention back to its own psychiatric expert. In regards to borderline personality disorder, he said that there could be a genetic component to it, but environmental factors are also believed to play a role. Dr Scott was also asked about Cruzs jail calls with Scarlett Lewis, the mother of a Sandy Hook shooting victim. New witness: Former MSD student Kyle Horriban Monday 3 October 2022 21:21 , Megan Sheets The states next witness is Kyle Horriban, a former student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas. He testified about a photo he took of a student wearing a backpack with a racial slur and swastika drawn on it. Asked who the student was, Mr Horriban pointed to Cruz in court. Mr Horriban said he didnt speak to Cruz when he took the photo because he didnt want to talk to someone brave enough to wear a backpack with that kind of racial hate. I was shocked that someone would wear that in public, especially at a school, he said. With that, the prosecutions questioning of Mr Horriban concluded. On cros-examination, Mr Horriban was simply asked if he was aware that Cruz has a Black brother. He replied in the negative. New witness: Neuropsychologist Dr Robert Denney Monday 3 October 2022 21:32 , Megan Sheets The next witness for the prosecution is Dr Robert Denney, a clinical neuropsychologist based in Missouri. Explaining his education and training, Dr Denney said he did his internship at a medical centre run by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. In that role, he counseled and evaluated inmates. The prosecution appears to be paving the way for Dr Denney to share his evaluations of Cruzs behaviour while in prison. Dr Denney explains impact of malingering' Monday 3 October 2022 21:57 , Megan Sheets Dr Denney testified that while he worked with inmates during his internship he saw cases of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD), which the defence contends impacted Cruz. He said much of his work has focused around malingering, which occurs when a person is trying to minimise or exaggerate their true level of functioning. Dr Denney explains that malingering negatively impacts the validity of test data, and part of his work is on reducing that impact. What is antisocial personality disorder? Tuesday 4 October 2022 00:00 , Rachel Sharp In the rebuttal, prosecutors are seeking to challenge Nikolas Cruzs defence that behavioural and psychological issues, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) led him to carry out the massacre. Instead, they are arguing that he has antisocial personality disorder and so he planned his attack and has since shown no remorse for his actions. Antisocial personality disorder is a mental disorder where the individual consistently shows no regard for right and wrong and ignores the rights and feelings of others, according to the Mayo Clinic. Often referred to as sociopathy, people with the disorder often break the law and engage in criminality, commit acts of violence, lie and abuse alcohol and drugs. They show no guilt or remorse for their behaviour. Early symptoms include behavioural problems such as aggression toward people and animals, stealing, destroying property and deceitfulness. Typically, adults with the disorder will have begun showing signs and symptoms of the disorder before the age of 15. What are fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)? Tuesday 4 October 2022 00:30 , Rachel Sharp One of the key parts of the defences argument is that he suffers from fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) caused by his biological mother abusing alcohol and drugs while pregnant. FASDs are conditions caused by an individual being exposed to alcohol in the womb before birth. According to the CDC, alcohol is passed from the mothers blood to the baby via the umbilical cord. It is surprisingly common, occurring in up to 1 in every 20 people, according to FASD United. The effects of FASD can vary but typically include both physical problems and behavioural and learning problems. Signs and symptoms include: learning disabilities, small head size, hyperactive behaviour, poor reasoning and judgment skills, difficulty in school and intellectual disability, among other things. Biden calls for gun safety laws on anniversary of Vegas massacre Tuesday 4 October 2022 03:00 , Rachel Sharp President Joe Biden renewed his calls for tighter gun safety laws on Saturday on what marked the fifth anniversary of the 2017 Las Vegas massacre. On 1 October 2017, 60 people were murdered and hundreds more wounded while they were attending a country music festival. It remains the deadliest mass shooting in American history. Jill and I mourn with all those who lost a piece of their soul on October 1st, 2017, the president said in a statement. May God bless those taken from us and comfort the loved ones of the fallen. And may we resolve to turn our heartbreak into action. From the Nevada desert, we heard the same cry that weve heard in the aftermath of Sandy Hook, Charleston, Parkland, Uvalde, Buffalo, and too many neighborhoods to count: Do something, Biden added. And, my Administration has been working tirelessly to heed that call. ICYMI: Nikolas Cruz acts out how he skinned lizards alive aged four in chilling video shown at Parkland trial Tuesday 4 October 2022 08:30 , Rachel Sharp Chilling video footage shows Nikolas Cruz acting out how he skinned lizards alive from the age of four during an interview with a forensic psychiatrist earlier this year. The video clip, played in Cruzs sentencing trial on Tuesday, shows the mass murderer nonchalantly describing his first memories of torturing and killing animals to Dr Charles Scott. Dr Charles Scott, the prosecutors rebuttal witness, interviewed Cruz over three full days in March 2022 as part of his extensive psychiatric evaluation of the Parkland gunman. In one interview on 2 March, Dr Scott asked Cruz when he recalled first hurting animals. I broke a lizards back with a rock, Cruz quickly replied in the video clip, adding that he believes he was around three years old at the time. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Video shows Nikolas Cruz acting out how he skinned lizards alive aged four ICYMI: Jurors see harrowing videos Cruz made before attack Tuesday 4 October 2022 09:30 , Rachel Sharp Jurors were shown harrowing videos Cruz made in the days before the mass shooting, where he described his plans to kill 20 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. In one of the videos, Cruz is off camera and is heard saying: Today is the day... all of the kids in school will run in fear and hide... I am nothing, I am no one, my life is nothing. With the power of my AR you will know who I am, he says. He calmly describes his plan to get an Uber to the school and then carry out the massacre. In one of the videos, he faces the camera and calmly details the key plans for the attack, laughing about murdering people. My name is Nik, he says at the start. Once he arrives at the school, he casually says then I shoot people down at the main courtyrard... and then people will die. My goal is 20 people, my location is Stoneman Douglas in Parkland, Florida. Its going to be a big event, he says. When you see me on the news youll all know who I am, Cruz says, breaking into a smile and laugh. Youre all going to die, he says, before making a shooting sound to the camera. Dr Scott testified that Cruz is calm, organised, speaking slowly in the videos which were made days before the shooting. Uvalde families stage sit-in in Texas Tuesday 4 October 2022 10:30 , Rachel Sharp Families whose loved ones were murdered in the 24 May mass shooting in Uvalde are staging a sit-in outside the school district administrative office in Uvalde, Texas, in protest over the inaction since the massacre. On May 24, 19 young children and two teachers were murdered in a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. Over the last week, Brett Cross, the father of one of the victims Uziyah Garcia, and other family members have been camping outside the school districts office calling for the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District police officers who responded to the scene that day to be suspended. Nearly 400 officers were on the scene of the mass shooting and failed to stop the gunman for 77 minutes. 146 hr update: Admin building is back at work. Still no word from Hal Harrell. Brett Cross (@BCross052422) October 3, 2022 Nikolas Cruzs chilling reason for ending Parkland shooting as he says he targeted victims over nasty look Tuesday 4 October 2022 12:30 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz has revealed that the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School only came to an end because he couldnt find anyone to kill as he claimed that he showed mercy to some of his victims. Disturbing video footage was played in Broward County Court on Monday, showing the 24-year-old mass murderers interviews with forensic psychiatrist Dr Charles Scott in March 2022. In the footage, Cruz is seen calmly detailing how he murdered 17 students and staff at the high school as well as his detailed preparations in the lead-up to the Valentines Day 2018 attack. Cruz claimed that he showed mercy to two of his victims before slaughtering them with his assault rifle because they gave him a nasty look. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Nikolas Cruzs chilling reason for ending Parkland shooting ICYMI: Jurors shown Cruzs backpack with racial slur Tuesday 4 October 2022 13:19 , Rachel Sharp During Mondays court session, jurors were shown a backpack Nikolas Cruz wore to school, emblazoned with a racial slur and Nazi symbol. Kyle Horrigan, a former student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, testified on Monday that he noticed Cruz walking around the school campus wearing the orange backpack with the offensive images back in September 2016. At the time, Cruz was also a student at the school. Jurors were shown a photograph that Mr Horrigan took of the bag, showing a swastika scrawled across it and the racist phrase: F*** you n****. I was personally shocked by it, that someone would walk around in public with that, much less at a school, Mr Horrigan told the court. Nikolas Cruzs backpack in 2016 which he took to Marjory Stoneman Douglas (Law & Crime) Clinical neuropsychologist to return to stand Tuesday 4 October 2022 13:50 , Rachel Sharp Dr Robert Denney, a clinical neuropsychologist based in Missouri, is expected to return to the stand on Tuesday morning. The expert was called by the prosecution as a rebuttal witness on Monday afternoon, where he detailed his experience evaluating prison inmates and of seeing cases of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) something that Cruzs defence has argued contributed to him carrying out his murderous rampage. Dr Denny began explaining to jurors the definition of malingering, where an individual fakes or exaggerates their symptoms or true level of functioning. He specialises in the topic with his work involving reducing the impact malingering can have on experts being able to effectively evaluate patients. Judge hears motions about rebuttal evidence Tuesday 4 October 2022 14:06 , Rachel Sharp Before the jury enters the courtroom, Judge Elizabeth Scherer is hearing motions about the admissibility of rebuttal evidence. The defence is objecting to some of the charts compiled based on Cruzs test scores, which neuropsychologist Dr Denney is expected to produce on the witness stand. Family members warned about graphic footage Tuesday 4 October 2022 15:09 , Rachel Sharp Family members of the Parkland victims were pre-warned on Tuesday that graphic footage and audio is likely to be played in court today. Prosecutors said the sound of shots and video of students hiding would be shown in court. Some of the clips will only be shown to the jury and not to the wider court. The state said that they had told the victims families so that they could decide whether or not to be present. Cruz was healthy baby, says expert Tuesday 4 October 2022 15:47 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz was healthy at birth, testified clinical neuropsychologist Dr Robert Denney. The expert said that, while alcohol can impact a fetus in the womb, Cruzs birth records indicate that he came out perfectly normal. Alcohol can affect the developing brain. Theres no doubt about that. It doesnt always... but it can. Theres no doubt about that, he said. Dr Denney pointed to the Apgar scoring where a baby is scored within the first few minutes of its life based on: Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration. He said that each category is scored from 0 to 2 with 2 being the best score. Dr Denney said that Cruz scored 2 in most of the five categories. The score card shows that he was scored at 8 minutes and then 9 minutes but because he had improved between the two minutes there was no need to score him again at 10 minutes and that part of the card was left blank. Cruzs Apgar score (Law & Crime) Based on these scores Mr Cruz was a healthy baby when he was born, said Dr Denney. Cruzs other birth records also show there was nothing unusual with his birth. He was born by C-section and records indicate he was resuscitated. But, the records show Cruz was then transferred to the newborn nursery. Mr Denney said thats the place babies want to go... you dont want to go to neonatal intensive care and they would if they needed more care. Other than the fact it was a C-section, it was a normal process, he said of Cruzs birth, adding that it was not abnormal or problematic. He was a healthy little baby, he said. Neuropsychologist says Cruz was playing games in evaluation Tuesday 4 October 2022 16:07 , Rachel Sharp Clinical neuropsychologist Dr Denney testified that Cruz was playing games with him during his evaluation of the mass shooter. My conclusion from this test is that he technically passed it from the software scoring rules but when you look at what he did with free recall he was clearly playing with me, he told the court. This is not what you see with real memory impairment. This is what you see when someone is playing games with you. He added that it was technically a pass [but] it shows that he is playing games with my testing. Dr Denney visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March 2022 and evaluated him in the presence of Cruzs attorney. He said that one of the tests showed Cruz gave an abnormal response saying that the shooter scored around 100 percent for all the easy things and then had free recall worse than severe dementia patients. He was able to remember the wrong words... so it proves that he could remember those if he chose to do so, he said. This aint right, said the expert. Its abnormal as it shouldnt be happening. Expert says Cruz was trying to look more impaired than he is Tuesday 4 October 2022 16:27 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney testified that Nikolas Cruz was trying to look more impaired than he is during his evaluation. In plain words was the defendant faking? asked the prosecutor. Dr Denney responded saying: In plain word he was not trying to do good on the testing Based on my clinical judgement, its because I think he was trying to look more impaired than he is. His testimony comes after another rebuttal witness Dr Charles Scott also testified this own evaluation found Cruz was malingering. Malingering is where an individual fakes or exaggerates a condition or illness in order to receive some sort of benefit. Cruz grossly exaggerating severe mental illness' Tuesday 4 October 2022 16:50 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz was grossly exaggerating his symptoms of mental illness during his evaluation with prosecution witness Dr Denney, the neuropsychologist told jurors. He is grossly exaggerating severe mental illness, he said. Dr Denney said that if someone had psychiatric conditions on the level that Cruz was displaying in his test answers, it would be instantly noticeable on meeting him. Even somebody who is severely psychotic would not endorse that high but they would also be able to endorse a consistent profile, Dr Denney said of one of the tests. [He was] grossly exaggerating severe psychiatric problems as well as semantic concerns, body concerns, cognitive concerns and memory complaints. The neuropsychologist told jurors that the level of impairment which Cruz showed in his test results were so severe he would not be able to even take the test if it was true. This is the most extreme impairment in attention deficit seen in the history of the world. Thats the level of impairment here, he said. If his attention problems were as bad as this he simply wouldnt be able to take the test. Cruzs jailhouse drawings contradict test scores Tuesday 4 October 2022 17:16 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruzs jailhouse drawings contradict the scores of the tests he underwent with psychological experts, according to Dr Denney. Jurors were shown drawings Cruz made while in prison awaiting trial, depicting a gunman with a firearm shooting victims. Dr Denney told the court that looking at the drawings shows Cruzs level of visual-spatial skills. He pointed out that the firearm was proportionate in the drawing and is not consistent with poor visual-spatial skills. Cruz scored poorly on visual-spatial skills in his tests with Dr Denney, he said findings that dont add up. If he was as bad as the tests, he should not be able to draw anythinng in a 2D or 3D way, said Dr Denney. Expert says Cruz has antisocial personality disorder Tuesday 4 October 2022 17:36 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney said that, based on his neurological testing, Cruz has borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder. Antisocial personality disorder is a mental disorder where the individual consistently shows no regard for right and wrong and ignores the rights and feelings of others, according to the Mayo Clinic. Often referred to as sociopathy, people with the disorder often break the law and engage in criminality, commit acts of violence, lie and abuse alcohol and drugs. They show no guilt or remorse for their behaviour. This is the same diagnosis that Dr Scott previously gave. Prosecution witness casts doubt on defence data Tuesday 4 October 2022 18:01 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney, who is a rebuttal witness for the prosecution, cast doubts on the reliability of data presented by defence witnesses. Two experts testified during the defences case that Cruz has a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). On Tuesday, Dr Denney picked apart the argument showing jurors graphics which indicated that the defence was selective about which data was shown in court to support its argument. Parkland school principal facing charges after taking guns to school Tuesday 4 October 2022 18:45 , Rachel Sharp A principal in Parkland, Florida, is facing criminal charges after she allegedly brought two guns to her charter school. Geyler Herrera-Castro, 39, is charged with two counts of possession of a weapon on school property and one count of crimes against a person culpable negligence, exposure to harm, reported South Florida Sun-Sentinel. On 2 June, other school staff members found the guns in a small, soft zippered pouch with handles, along with two loaded magazines, on the campus of Somerset Parkland Academy K-8, investigators said. Police said that the principal Ms Herrera-Castro told officers one of the guns was hers and the other her fathers. She allegedly claimed she had left them in her car and another staff member may have brought them inside when helping unload her car. But, according to a criminal complaint, surveillance footage only captured the principal entering or exiting her vehicle with items. Police said that there is probable cause to believe that she routinely and willingly brought the guns to the school. What is malingering? Tuesday 4 October 2022 19:05 , Rachel Sharp Malingering is where an individual fakes or exaggerates a condition or illness in order to receive some sort of benefit. It is an act, not a condition, and the feigned illness can be mental or physical, according to WebMD. It was first used to describe soldiers who feigned conditions in an effort to try to avoid military service in the 1900s. Now, malingering is carried out for many reasons including to avoid legal action or to get attention. Malingering is different to factitious disorder, because while both involve feigning an illness the latter is considered a mental illness where the individual does not do it intentionally. The challenge with malingering is that it is difficult to determine. Cruz did great on executive function test Tuesday 4 October 2022 20:04 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney continued to go through the findings of neurological testing carried out on Cruz. The expert said that the gunman did great on one task that tested his executive functioning cognitive processes that allow people to plan, focus their attention, make decisions and multitask. He did great on this task, and this is a sophisticated measure that when a person scores like this, it indicates that theyre performing at a decision-making level thats higher than what you expect to see in neurologically-impaired people... Its inconsistent with neurological impairment, he testified. His testimony contradicts the defence, which argued that Cruzs brain was broken. Expert says tests indicate Cruz does not have neurocognitive problems' Tuesday 4 October 2022 20:42 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney testified that his evaluation of Nikolas Cruz indicated that he does not have neurocognitive problems. The expert also cast doubt on the argument that Cruzs low IQ is a sign of impairment. IQ scores arent necessarily indicative of brain impairment, he said. Its just persons overall level of functioning & you expect the neuropsychological test battery scores to fall in a pile around that general ability level. Cruz has an IQ of 83, which does fall within the low average range. However, 14 percent of perfectly normal people have IQs in that range, said Dr Denney. Court sees footage of terrified students as gunshots ring out Tuesday 4 October 2022 21:05 , Rachel Sharp The court was shown footage of terrified students hiding inside a classroom in Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School as gunshots rang out. The clip shows students crouched on the ground in the school during the Valentines Day 2018 mass shooting. Multiple shots are heard being fired in rapid succession, as chilling screams ring out. A number of other videos were also shown to jurors but were not shown to the public. Dr Denney testified about the footage which he said once again contradicted Cruzs test scores and indicated he has been faking his conditions. The expert said that the rapidity of the gunshots one after the next does not fit with someone who has slow finger tapping performance. One of the videos not shared with the public shows Cruz moving through the school firing shots. Dr Denney said that it shows Cruz swung round the doorway and pulled the trigger with two rapid shots moving seamlessly. He said that it shows someone with motor control and balance. That fluidity in a real life situation does not match a test score, he saod. Theres absolutely no way that finger tapping score is valid. Nikolas Cruz faked extent of mental illness and cognitive issues: He was clearly playing games Tuesday 4 October 2022 22:20 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz has been faking the extent of his mental illness and cognitive issues and was clearly playing games during evaluations with experts, according to a renowned clinical psychologist. Dr Robert Denney took the witness stand on Tuesday morning in the sentencing trial for the 24-year-old mass murderer, where jurors will decide whether to sentence him to life in prison or to death for the murders of 17 people on Valentines Day 2018. Dr Denney, who is one of just seven people in the world with board certifications in both forensic psychology and clinical neuropsychology, visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March to carry out a series of tests. He testified that Cruz cheated during the tests and was grossly exaggerating symptoms of mental illness, poor memory and other health concerns. He is grossly exaggerating severe mental illness, he said, adding that [he was] grossly exaggerating severe psychiatric problems as well as semantic concerns, body concerns, cognitive concerns and memory complaints. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Nikolas Cruz faked extent of mental illness and was playing games with expert RECAP: What happened on Monday? Tuesday 4 October 2022 22:50 , Rachel Sharp The prosecution resumed its rebuttal case on Monday, after the trial was postponed last week due to Hurricane Ian. Cruz thought about carrying out a mass shooting for many years and studied the Columbine and Virginia Tech massacres in preparation for his own, he told forensic psychiatrist Dr Charles Scott in jailhouse interviews played in court. Cruz said that he first started thinking about mass shootings from the age of 13 or 14 then conducted research into several other mass shootings leading up to Valentines Day 2018. I did my own research. I looked up on Wikipedia, I studied mass murderers and how they did it, he said nonchalantly. Their plan and what they got and what they used. Dr Scott diagnosed Cruz with antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, a history of conduct disorder and malingering refuting the defences FASD argument. He testified that Cruz planned the attack, his ability to make decisions and his memory of the shooting showed that he has adequate executive functioning the mental processes that enable people to plan and control his behaviour when he wants. This was not a spur of the moment decision. This had been planned out for months, said Dr Scott. Cruz told Dr Scott that the mass shooting only came to an end because he couldnt find any more victims. I couldnt find anyone to kill, he said. Cruz claimed that he showed mercy to two of his victims before slaughtering them with his assault rifle because they gave him a nasty look. He also spoke matter of factly about his gruesome slayings, nonchalantly telling Dr Scott how he watched the head of one victim blew up like a water balloon. Jurors were shown videos Cruz made in the days before the massacre, where he spoke of his plans. With the power of my AR you will know who I am, he says in one video. My goal is 20 people, my location is Stoneman Douglas in Parkland, Florida. Its going to be a big event. RECAP: What happened on Tuesday? Tuesday 4 October 2022 23:30 , Rachel Sharp The prosecution continued with its rebuttal case, with Dr Robert Denney, a clinical neuropsychologist, returning to the witness stand. Dr Denney carried out neurological tests on Cruz on 9 and 10 March 2022 in Broward County Jail as part of his evaluation of the shooter. Dr Denney testified that birth records show that Cruz was a healthy baby who came out perfectly normal. Other than the fact it was a C-section, it was a normal process, he said of Cruzs birth refuting the defences argument. Dr Denney testified that Cruz was faking symptoms and was grossly exaggerating severe mental illness during his evaluation of him. The expert extensively ran through the shooters test scores and how they dont add up. This is what you see when someone is playing games with you, he said. In memory tests, Cruz scored around 100 percent for all the easy things and then had free recall worse than severe dementia patients, he said. He was able to remember the wrong words... so it proves that he could remember those if he chose to do so, he said. Jurors were also shown graphic footage from the massacre as further evidence that Cruzs test scores do not appear to match his actions. One clip showed terrified students hiding on the floor inside a classroom in Marjory Stoneman as multiple shots are heard being fired in rapid succession and chilling screams ring out. Dr Denney said the footage contradicted Cruzs finger tapping test scores because it showed the rapidity of the gunshots being fired in quick succession. Based on his neurological testing, Dr Denney concluded that Cruz has borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder. Nikolas Cruz had a horror start to life but does it matter in trial? Wednesday 5 October 2022 00:00 , Rachel Sharp It began before he was even born: Nikolas Cruzs biological mother drank alcohol and abused drugs while he was still in the womb. At the age of five, his adoptive father suddenly collapsed and died in front of him in the family home. In his teenage years, he was allegedly bullied by his brother and sexually abused by a so-called trusted peer. At 19, he became an orphan when his adoptive mother died from pneumonia. And just three months later, he murdered 17 innocent students and staff in a shooting rampage at his former high school. Without any one of those problems, it may never have happened, Abigail Marsh, professor in the Department of Psychology and the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program at Georgetown University, tells The Independent. For any given person there is a causal explanation, a link and, on average, people who become mass shooters or are very violent have had these experiences or risk factors. Theres no one thing that you can say that is the reason but, together, a perfect storm of risk factors can give the means, motive and opportunity. These so-called risk factors have all come into focus in recent weeks as Cruzs team of public defenders tries to convince a jury of his peers that his life should be spared. The Independents Rachel Sharp details what jurors have learned about Cruzs start in life and speaks to a psychologist and criminal defence attorney about what impact this truly had on him committing his crime and whether or not it will make any difference in the eyes of the jury: Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz may have had a horror start to life but does it matter? Witnesses jurors wont hear from Wednesday 5 October 2022 01:30 , Rachel Sharp In a move that caught the entire courtroom off guard earlier this month, Nikolas Cruzs defence team announced it was resting its case in his sentencing trial. The 23-year-old mass murderers legal team previously said it planned to call around 80 witnesses to the stand as they try to convince jurors to sentence him to life in prison instead of to death. But, at the start of the court session on 14 September, Cruzs lead attorney Melisa McNeill suddenly revealed that the defence was resting after calling only around 25 witnesses. While the bombshell announcement instantly plunged the courtroom into chaos, it also meant jurors would no longer hear from several widely-anticipated witnesses. Here are some of the key witnesses who had been expected to testify: Nikolas Cruz trial: Key witnesses jurors wont hear from after defence rested case Nikolas Cruzs chilling reason for ending Parkland shooting as he says he targeted victims over nasty look Wednesday 5 October 2022 02:30 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz has revealed that the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School only came to an end because he couldnt find anyone to kill as he claimed that he showed mercy to some of his victims. Disturbing video footage was played in Broward County Court on Monday, showing the 24-year-old mass murderers interviews with forensic psychiatrist Dr Charles Scott in March 2022. In the footage, Cruz is seen calmly detailing how he murdered 17 students and staff at the high school as well as his detailed preparations in the lead-up to the Valentines Day 2018 attack. Cruz claimed that he showed mercy to two of his victims before slaughtering them with his assault rifle because they gave him a nasty look. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Nikolas Cruzs chilling reason for ending Parkland shooting Timeline of the Parkland massacre Wednesday 5 October 2022 04:00 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz, the man convicted of shooting dead 17 people and injuring 17 others at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on 14 February 2018, is now facing a sentencing trial for his crimes. Cruz a former student at the institution who was a member of its air rifle team and had a lengthy disciplinary record was just 19 when he arrived that day in an Uber bearing a legally-purchased AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and gunned down 14 students and three members of staff in what proved to be one of the deadliest school massacres in American history. He was arrested later that day by police and pleaded guilty to 17 charges of first-degree murder and 17 of attempted murder, his actions sparking a nationwide protest movement demanding tighter gun control measures and an unsavoury political debate in which survivors of the attack including David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez were accused of being paid crisis actors by conspiracy-minded members of the right-wing commentariat. Heres a timeline of the massacre: A timeline of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting Remembering the victims of Parkland Wednesday 5 October 2022 06:00 , Rachel Sharp Seventeen students and staff members were murdered in the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentines Day 2018. The 14 students killed were: Alyssa Alhadeff, Martin Duque, Nicholas Dworet, Jaime Guttenberg, Luke Hoyer, Cara Loughran, Gina Montalto, Joaquin Oliver, Alaina Petty, Meadow Pollack, Helena Ramsay, Alex Schachter, Carmen Schentrup and Peter Wang. The three adults killed were: Scott Beigel, Chris Hixon and Aaron Feis. Debbi Hixon, who should have recently celebrated her 32nd wedding anniversary with her husband Chris, told The Independent ahead of the start of the trial that the trial is a way for people to hear the stories of each of the people who were killed that day. People say the 17 parents and the 17 students [when they talk about Parkland], she said. People dont know the story of each individual who was lost and, for us who lost them, thats the story. And its frustrating that it isnt about those who were lost. She adds: All the 14 beautiful children and three adults that were lost. They all have their own story. Here are their stories: Parkland victims widow speaks out as victims remembered What is malingering? Wednesday 5 October 2022 08:00 , Rachel Sharp Malingering is where an individual fakes or exaggerates a condition or illness in order to receive some sort of benefit. It is an act, not a condition, and the feigned illness can be mental or physical, according to WebMD. It was first used to describe soldiers who feigned conditions in an effort to try to avoid military service in the 1900s. Now, malingering is carried out for many reasons including to avoid legal action or to get attention. Malingering is different to factitious disorder, because while both involve feigning an illness the latter is considered a mental illness where the individual does not do it intentionally. The challenge with malingering is that it is difficult to determine. What are fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)? Wednesday 5 October 2022 09:00 , Rachel Sharp One of the key parts of the defences argument is that he suffers from fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) caused by his biological mother abusing alcohol and drugs while pregnant. FASDs are conditions caused by an individual being exposed to alcohol in the womb before birth. According to the CDC, alcohol is passed from the mothers blood to the baby via the umbilical cord. It is surprisingly common, occurring in up to 1 in every 20 people, according to FASD United. The effects of FASD can vary but typically include both physical problems and behavioural and learning problems. Signs and symptoms include: learning disabilities, small head size, hyperactive behaviour, poor reasoning and judgment skills, difficulty in school and intellectual disability, among other things. What is antisocial personality disorder? Wednesday 5 October 2022 10:00 , Rachel Sharp In the rebuttal, prosecutors are seeking to challenge Nikolas Cruzs defence that behavioural and psychological issues, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) led him to carry out the massacre. Instead, they are arguing that he has antisocial personality disorder and so he planned his attack and has since shown no remorse for his actions. Antisocial personality disorder is a mental disorder where the individual consistently shows no regard for right and wrong and ignores the rights and feelings of others, according to the Mayo Clinic. Often referred to as sociopathy, people with the disorder often break the law and engage in criminality, commit acts of violence, lie and abuse alcohol and drugs. They show no guilt or remorse for their behaviour. Early symptoms include behavioural problems such as aggression toward people and animals, stealing, destroying property and deceitfulness. Typically, adults with the disorder will have begun showing signs and symptoms of the disorder before the age of 15. RECAP: What happened on Monday? Wednesday 5 October 2022 11:00 , Rachel Sharp The prosecution resumed its rebuttal case on Monday, after the trial was postponed last week due to Hurricane Ian. Cruz thought about carrying out a mass shooting for many years and studied the Columbine and Virginia Tech massacres in preparation for his own, he told forensic psychiatrist Dr Charles Scott in jailhouse interviews played in court. Cruz said that he first started thinking about mass shootings from the age of 13 or 14 then conducted research into several other mass shootings leading up to Valentines Day 2018. I did my own research. I looked up on Wikipedia, I studied mass murderers and how they did it, he said nonchalantly. Their plan and what they got and what they used. Dr Scott diagnosed Cruz with antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, a history of conduct disorder and malingering refuting the defences FASD argument. He testified that Cruz planned the attack, his ability to make decisions and his memory of the shooting showed that he has adequate executive functioning the mental processes that enable people to plan and control his behaviour when he wants. This was not a spur of the moment decision. This had been planned out for months, said Dr Scott. Cruz told Dr Scott that the mass shooting only came to an end because he couldnt find any more victims. I couldnt find anyone to kill, he said. Cruz claimed that he showed mercy to two of his victims before slaughtering them with his assault rifle because they gave him a nasty look. He also spoke matter of factly about his gruesome slayings, nonchalantly telling Dr Scott how he watched the head of one victim blew up like a water balloon. Jurors were shown videos Cruz made in the days before the massacre, where he spoke of his plans. With the power of my AR you will know who I am, he says in one video. My goal is 20 people, my location is Stoneman Douglas in Parkland, Florida. Its going to be a big event. RECAP: What happened on Tuesday? Wednesday 5 October 2022 12:00 , Rachel Sharp The prosecution continued with its rebuttal case, with Dr Robert Denney, a clinical neuropsychologist, returning to the witness stand. Dr Denney carried out neurological tests on Cruz on 9 and 10 March 2022 in Broward County Jail as part of his evaluation of the shooter. Dr Denney testified that birth records show that Cruz was a healthy baby who came out perfectly normal. Other than the fact it was a C-section, it was a normal process, he said of Cruzs birth refuting the defences argument. Dr Denney testified that Cruz was faking symptoms and was grossly exaggerating severe mental illness during his evaluation of him. The expert extensively ran through the shooters test scores and how they dont add up. This is what you see when someone is playing games with you, he said. In memory tests, Cruz scored around 100 percent for all the easy things and then had free recall worse than severe dementia patients, he said. He was able to remember the wrong words... so it proves that he could remember those if he chose to do so, he said. Jurors were also shown graphic footage from the massacre as further evidence that Cruzs test scores do not appear to match his actions. One clip showed terrified students hiding on the floor inside a classroom in Marjory Stoneman as multiple shots are heard being fired in rapid succession and chilling screams ring out. Dr Denney said the footage contradicted Cruzs finger tapping test scores because it showed the rapidity of the gunshots being fired in quick succession. Based on his neurological testing, Dr Denney concluded that Cruz has borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder. Nikolas Cruz faked extent of mental illness and cognitive issues: He was clearly playing games Wednesday 5 October 2022 13:00 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz has been faking the extent of his mental illness and cognitive issues and was clearly playing games during evaluations with experts, according to a renowned clinical psychologist. Dr Robert Denney took the witness stand on Tuesday morning in the sentencing trial for the 24-year-old mass murderer, where jurors will decide whether to sentence him to life in prison or to death for the murders of 17 people on Valentines Day 2018. Dr Denney, who is one of just seven people in the world with board certifications in both forensic psychology and clinical neuropsychology, visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March to carry out a series of tests. He testified that Cruz cheated during the tests and was grossly exaggerating symptoms of mental illness, poor memory and other health concerns. He is grossly exaggerating severe mental illness, he said, adding that [he was] grossly exaggerating severe psychiatric problems as well as semantic concerns, body concerns, cognitive concerns and memory complaints. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Nikolas Cruz faked extent of mental illness and was playing games with expert What weve learned so far in the trial: Wednesday 5 October 2022 14:00 , Rachel Sharp On Valentines Day 2018, Cruz traveled to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School armed with an AR-15-style rifle. There, the then-19-year-old stalked all three floors of the freshman building, shooting and killing 17 students and staff members. Cruz, now 23, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to 17 counts of murder and 17 counts of attempted murder. Now, the jury will decide whether to hand him the death penalty or to sentence him to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Heres what weve learned so far in the trial: Nikolas Cruzs sentencing trial: What weve learned so far Trial set to resume Thursday 6 October 2022 13:36 , Rachel Sharp The sentencing trial of Nikolas Cruz will resume from 9am ET on Thursday. The trial was postponed on Wednesday because the court was closed for the day. It marked just the latest delay in proceedings in the trial, which was called off the week before due to Hurricane Ian. Two men arrested on felony charges of exploiting shooters brother Thursday 6 October 2022 14:17 , Rachel Sharp The two men who took Nikolas Cruzs brother under their wing in the wake of the Parkland massacre have been arrested for exploiting him. Mike Donovan and Richard Moore, both 45, were arrested at their home in Virginia on Wednesday and charged with exploiting a mentally incapacitated person and obtaining money by false pretences. They were released on $50,000 bond each later that day. The couple, who cofounded bond servicing company Nexus, took Zachary Cruz, 22, under their wing after his brother murdered 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentines Day 2018. Zachary and Cruz, who shared the same biological mother and adoptive parents, had been left orphaned when their adoptive mother Lynda Cruz died in November 2017. The pair had never met Cruz or Zachary prior to the mass shooting but reached out to the then-teenager when he was arrested for trespassing on the site of the massacre. Zachary, who turned 18 just one week after his brother carried out one of the deadliest mass shootings in US history, moved from Florida to live with the couple and their son in Virginia. Mr Donovan denied the couple had exploited Zachary and instead said they had fallen foul to corrupt cops. I want to point that out that first of all, I didnt exploit Zach, and secondly, Zach isnt mentally incapacitated, he told the Sun-Sentinel. Dr Denney returns to the stand Thursday 6 October 2022 14:40 , Rachel Sharp Dr Robert Denney has returned to the witness stand. The clinical neuropsychologist, one of just seven people in the world with board certifications in both forensic psychology and clinical neuropsychology, visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March to carry out a series of tests. He testified on Tuesday that Cruz cheated during the tests and was grossly exaggerating symptoms of mental illness, poor memory and other health concerns. Expert says Cruz does not have FASD Thursday 6 October 2022 15:04 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney testified that his diagnosis is that Nikolas Cruz does not have a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). He said that Cruz doesnt have severe impairments he would expect to see from someone with FASD. The neuropsycholohgists diagnosis was: - No neurocognitive disorder - No fetal alcohol spectrum disorder - Malingering - Antisocial personality disorder - Borderline personality The expert said that Cruz has a callous lack of empathy and lack of remorse. Jailhouse interview shows Cruz speaking about animal abuse Thursday 6 October 2022 15:24 , Rachel Sharp Jurors were shown a video clip from a jailhouse interview of Nikolas Cruz and Dr Denney. The clinical neuropsychologist visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March to carry out a series of tests. In the footage, Cruz tells the neuropsychologist how he abused animals as a child. MOMENTS AGO: Jailhouse video played in court. #NikolasCruz admits to animal abuse, what he did before he was 15. https://t.co/4oD4mr9TaV pic.twitter.com/gsoctaHtLr WPEC CBS12 News (@CBS12) October 6, 2022 Expert says Cruz doesnt care about other people Thursday 6 October 2022 15:59 , Rachel Sharp Dr Denney testified that Nikolas Cruz doesnt care about other people or their rights. The clinical neuropsychologist visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March to carry out a series of tests. He diagnosed the shooter with antisocial personality disorder, saying his findings are different to him having a mental disorder. A big difference between a mental disease or defect and a personality disorder, he says. People with disorders can control it if they want to, if it serves... They care about themselves but they dont care about the rights of other people. Parkland shooter claims he was sexually abused by neighbour Thursday 6 October 2022 17:52 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz claimed that he was sexually abused by a male neighbour when he was nine years old, jurors learned on Thursday. Under cross-examination, Cruzs attorney asked Dr Denney about what the mass shooter had told him about the alleged abuse. Attorney David Wheeler said that, when Cruz was nine, a family moved in next door to his. The boy in that family began performing sexual acts with Cruz when he went over to play Xbox with him, Mr Wheeler said. [Cruz] would go over to play videogames and someone in that family would have him do things in order to play on the Xbox, he said. Mr Wheeler said that Cruz claimed that one time the boy allegedly took him into a bathroom and asked him if he wanted to try something new. The neighbour then took out his penis, put on a condom and penetrated Cruz, the shooter has claimed. Dr Denney confirmed that Cruz had told him about the abuse but said he didnt recall all of the details of his claims. The defence pointed out that Cruz told Dr Denney that the boy and his mother later came to live with the Cruz family in their home. Cruz claimed he stole some money from the boy to get back at him, the attorney said. He told the expert that he was hesitant about coming forward over the sexual assault, because he didnt want people to think this boy was a sexual predator, said Mr Wheeler. However, clinical psychologist Dr Denney seemed to cast doubts on the allegations by saying that Cruz told him some recollections which he said were recollections. He wasnt aware of it until after he was arrested, he said. The alleged abuser was not named in the testimony and his age was not revealed. Court on lunchtime recess Thursday 6 October 2022 18:17 , Rachel Sharp Trial will resume at 2pm ET. Two men charged with exploiting brother of Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz Thursday 6 October 2022 18:40 , Rachel Sharp The two men who took Nikolas Cruzs brother under their wing in the wake of the Parkland massacre have been arrested for allegedly exploiting him just as the mass shooters sentencing trial is drawing to a close. Mike Donovan and Richard Moore, both 45, were arrested at their home in Virginia on Wednesday and charged with exploiting a mentally incapacitated person and obtaining money by false pretences. They were each released on $50,000 bond later that day. The couple, who cofounded bond servicing company Nexus, took Zachary Cruz, 22, under their wing after his brother murdered 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentines Day 2018. Zachary and Cruz, who shared the same biological mother Brenda Woodard and were adopted and raised together by Lynda and Roger Cruz, had been left orphaned in November 2017 when their adoptive mother died. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Two men charged with exploiting brother of Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz Who are Richard Moore and Mike Donovan? Thursday 6 October 2022 19:05 , Rachel Sharp Richard Moore and his husband Mike Donovan both took Zachary Cruz under their wing after his brother murdered 17 students and staff members in the Parkland massacre. The couple, both 45, are cofounders of bond servicing company Nexus. They had never met Zachary or Nikolas Cruz prior to the 2018 mass shooting but reached out to Zachary following his trespassing arrest. Zachary moved from Florida to live with the couple and their son in their family home in Virginia. Mr Moore has attended some of Cruzs trial and was seen at the courthouse when the defence began presenting its case. He previously said that he doesnt approve of what Cruz did but believes nobody should face this alone. Mr Moores name has cropped up during the trial, with prosecutors saying that he had sent thousands of dollars of commissary to Cruz in prison this year alone and speaks regularly to the mass shooter through jailhouse phone calls. On 5 October, Mr Moore and Mr Donovan were both arrested on felony charges of exploiting Zachary. They were charged with exploiting a mentally incapacitated person and obtaining money by false pretenses and released on $50,000 bond. Defence tries to undermine experts credibility Thursday 6 October 2022 19:40 , Rachel Sharp The defence is continuing its cross-examination of Dr Denney, attempting to undermine the experts credibility. Attorney David Wheeler asked the psychologist about the fact that two federal courts had found him lacking in credibility since 2016 for not complying with criminal standards in cases. Dr Denney admitted this was true. He also acknowledged that he does not specialise in FASD and has not released any research on FASD. Court takes another recess Thursday 6 October 2022 19:50 , Rachel Sharp The defence has ended its cross-examination of Dr Denney. Prosecutors were about to return to questioning of their rebuttal witness, when the legal teams went to a sidebar. The judge called a break so that she could hear arguments. Video of Cruz speaking about alleged sexual abuse Thursday 6 October 2022 20:13 , Rachel Sharp While jurors are out of the courtroom, the judge and legal teams watched footage of Nikolas Cruz speaking about the alleged sexual abuse that he claims he suffered at the hands of a neighbour. Cruz told Dr Denney and Dr Scott, expert witnesses for the prosecution, that he was sexually molested by the older son of his mothers friend. In the video clip, Dr Scott asked Cruz if anyone abused him physically. I dont like putting out people like this but I think I might have been sexually abused by a neighbourhood boy, he said. Cruz told the psychologist that he and his brother would go to the home when they were young and that the boy told him he would let him play on his Xbox if they do things. He said the boy got him to suck his d*** around six or seven times and also had anal sex with him one time. The shooter said he was around 75 percent sure the abuse happened but wasnt certain claiming that his mother told him it didnt happen. Im not too sure thats why I dont want to put him out like that, he said. My memory I think it did happen but I dont want to make him a sexual predator or anything like that. He added: I have memories that things did happen but my mom told me that nothing happened but I heard some news that things did happen. Cruz claims abuser also targeted his brother Thursday 6 October 2022 20:30 , Rachel Sharp In the video clips, Cruz claimed that his brother Zachary Cruz also recalls being abused by the older neighbour. In his interview with Dr Denney, he said his brother has memories of it too. Yeh I have memories of it. But I dont want to like put it out that hes a sexual molesterer as I dont know if it really is true or not, he said. But my brother said he has memories of it too that it happened to him as well. Cruz repeatedly yawns as he tells the psychologist about the abuse. He tells Dr Denney his attorneys are the first people he told about the abuse. He told Dr Scott that he had told his mother about the abuse when he was young and he believes that she told his alleged abusers mother. The boy was then sent away to Canada, he said. Prosecutors are asking to show jurors the videos. MOMENTS AGO: Jurors out of court while lawyers discuss possible sexual molestation. **GRAPHIC** Jailhouse interview played in which #NikolasCruz discusses what neighbors son did to him and younger brother Zachary as children to play Xbox. https://t.co/4oD4mr9lln pic.twitter.com/LImBWtjI3v WPEC CBS12 News (@CBS12) October 6, 2022 Jurors shown videos of Cruz speaking about alleged abuse Thursday 6 October 2022 21:34 , Rachel Sharp Jurors were shown the videos of Nikolas Cruz speaking about the alleged sexual abuse after the judge ruled that they could be played in court. In the footage, Cruz says he has memories of the abuse but isnt certain it happened Prosecution rests rebuttal case Thursday 6 October 2022 21:36 , Rachel Sharp The prosecution has rested its rebuttal case in the sentencing trial of Nikolas Cruz. The trial is now on recess until Tuesday when the state and the defence will present their closing arguments. The jury will begin deliberations as soon as Wednesday to decide whether to sentence him to life in prison or to death. RECAP: What happened in court on Thursday? Thursday 6 October 2022 22:10 , Rachel Sharp The prosecution rested its case on Thursday afternoon after hearing more testimony from clinical psychologist Dr Denney. Dr Denney said his diagnosis is that Nikolas Cruz does not have a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) or any neurocognitive disorder. Instead, he said he has antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder and shows malingering. Jurors were shown a video from Dr Denneys interviews with Cruz where Cruz described torturing and killing animals as a child. I burned, I tortured them, I skinned them alive, I shot them. I would play with their dead bodies or I would eat them, he said. In another video clip, Cruz told Dr Denney he chose Valentines Day for his attack to ruin the day for the community. Dr Denney asked Cruz if there was anything important that I havent asked you? Cruz paused for a few seconds and replied: Why I chose Valentines Day. He told him it was because I thought no one would love me. I didnt like Valentines Day and I wanted to ruin it for everyone. The comments drew a gasp from victims family members in the courtroom. Jurors were shown videos of Cruz speaking about the alleged sexual abuse that he claims he suffered at the hands of a neighbour. Cruz told Dr Denney and Dr Scott, an earlier expert witnesses for the prosecution, that he was sexually molested by the older son of his mothers friend. He claimed that the boy, who was around 10 when he was eight, told him he would let him play on his Xbox if they do things. However Cruz said he wasnt certain his memory was correct. My memory I think it did happen but I dont want to make him a sexual predator or anything like that, he said. What happens now? Thursday 6 October 2022 23:00 , Rachel Sharp Closing arguments The prosecution and the defence will give their closing arguments on Tuesday. Jury gets case The jury will retire for deliberations as early as Wednesday, after closing arguments. Jurors will decide whether to sentence him to life in prison or to death. Who is Zachary Cruz? Thursday 6 October 2022 23:30 , Rachel Sharp The brother of Parkland mass shooter Nikolas Cruz is believed to be starring in a reality show about his life and was previously charged with trespassing at the school where his brother murdered 17 innocent people. Zachary Cruz, 22, was expected to testify for the defence in Cruzs sentencing trial, where a jury will decide whether to give him to life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. But, the defence shocked the courtroom by resting its case on 14 September after calling less than half of its witness list with Zachary still notably absent from the witness stand. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Who is Zachary Cruz? Parkland shooters brother to testify at trial Two men charged with exploiting brother of Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz Friday 7 October 2022 00:00 , Rachel Sharp The two men who took Nikolas Cruzs brother under their wing in the wake of the Parkland massacre have been arrested for allegedly exploiting him just as the mass shooters sentencing trial is drawing to a close. Mike Donovan and Richard Moore, both 45, were arrested at their home in Virginia on Wednesday and charged with exploiting a mentally incapacitated person and obtaining money by false pretences. They were each released on $50,000 bond later that day. The couple, who cofounded bond servicing company Nexus, took Zachary Cruz, 22, under their wing after his brother murdered 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentines Day 2018. Zachary and Cruz, who shared the same biological mother Brenda Woodard and were adopted and raised together by Lynda and Roger Cruz, had been left orphaned in November 2017 when their adoptive mother died. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Two men charged with exploiting brother of Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz What weve learned so far in the trial: 01:00 , Rachel Sharp On Valentines Day 2018, Cruz traveled to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School armed with an AR-15-style rifle. There, the then-19-year-old stalked all three floors of the freshman building, shooting and killing 17 students and staff members. Cruz, now 23, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to 17 counts of murder and 17 counts of attempted murder. Now, the jury will decide whether to hand him the death penalty or to sentence him to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Heres what weve learned so far in the trial: Nikolas Cruzs sentencing trial: What weve learned so far Nikolas Cruz had a horror start to life but does it matter in trial? 02:00 , Rachel Sharp It began before he was even born: Nikolas Cruzs biological mother drank alcohol and abused drugs while he was still in the womb. At the age of five, his adoptive father suddenly collapsed and died in front of him in the family home. In his teenage years, he was allegedly bullied by his brother and sexually abused by a so-called trusted peer. At 19, he became an orphan when his adoptive mother died from pneumonia. And just three months later, he murdered 17 innocent students and staff in a shooting rampage at his former high school. Without any one of those problems, it may never have happened, Abigail Marsh, professor in the Department of Psychology and the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program at Georgetown University, tells The Independent. For any given person there is a causal explanation, a link and, on average, people who become mass shooters or are very violent have had these experiences or risk factors. Theres no one thing that you can say that is the reason but, together, a perfect storm of risk factors can give the means, motive and opportunity. These so-called risk factors have all come into focus in recent weeks as Cruzs team of public defenders tries to convince a jury of his peers that his life should be spared. The Independents Rachel Sharp details what jurors have learned about Cruzs start in life and speaks to a psychologist and criminal defence attorney about what impact this truly had on him committing his crime and whether or not it will make any difference in the eyes of the jury: Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz may have had a horror start to life but does it matter? Parkland shooter claims he was sexually abused by neighbour 03:00 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz claimed that he was sexually abused by a male neighbour when he was nine years old, jurors learned on Thursday. Under cross-examination, Cruzs attorney asked Dr Denney about what the mass shooter had told him about the alleged abuse. Attorney David Wheeler said that, when Cruz was nine, a family moved in next door to his. The boy in that family began performing sexual acts with Cruz when he went over to play Xbox with him, Mr Wheeler said. [Cruz] would go over to play videogames and someone in that family would have him do things in order to play on the Xbox, he said. Mr Wheeler said that Cruz claimed that one time the boy allegedly took him into a bathroom and asked him if he wanted to try something new. The neighbour then took out his penis, put on a condom and penetrated Cruz, the shooter has claimed. Dr Denney confirmed that Cruz had told him about the abuse but said he didnt recall all of the details of his claims. The defence pointed out that Cruz told Dr Denney that the boy and his mother later came to live with the Cruz family in their home. Cruz claimed he stole some money from the boy to get back at him, the attorney said. He told the expert that he was hesitant about coming forward over the sexual assault, because he didnt want people to think this boy was a sexual predator, said Mr Wheeler. However, clinical psychologist Dr Denney seemed to cast doubts on the allegations by saying that Cruz told him some recollections which he said were recollections. He wasnt aware of it until after he was arrested, he said. He added: There was some suggestion that mightve happened. He was only told that it happened after he was arrested Thats what Mr Cruz told me. The alleged abuser was not named in the testimony and his age was not revealed. The key witnesses jurors wont hear from 04:00 , Rachel Sharp In a move that caught the entire courtroom off guard, Nikolas Cruzs defence team announced it was resting its case in his sentencing trial after calling less than a third of its expected witnesses. The 23-year-old mass murderers legal team previously said it planned to call around 80 witnesses to the stand as they try to convince jurors to sentence him to life in prison instead of to death. But, at the start of the 14 September court session, Cruzs lead attorney Melisa McNeill suddenly revealed that the defence was resting after calling only around 25 witnesses. Notable names expected to take to the stand were Cruzs brother Zachary Cruz and Richard Moore, who took Zachary into his home after the shooting. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Nikolas Cruz trial: Key witnesses jurors wont hear from after defence rested case ICYMI: Nikolas Cruz faked extent of mental illness and cognitive issues: He was clearly playing games 06:00 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz has been faking the extent of his mental illness and cognitive issues and was clearly playing games during evaluations with experts, according to a renowned clinical psychologist. Dr Robert Denney took the witness stand on Tuesday morning in the sentencing trial for the 24-year-old mass murderer, where jurors will decide whether to sentence him to life in prison or to death for the murders of 17 people on Valentines Day 2018. Dr Denney, who is one of just seven people in the world with board certifications in both forensic psychology and clinical neuropsychology, visited Cruz in Broward County Jail over two days in March to carry out a series of tests. He testified that Cruz cheated during the tests and was grossly exaggerating symptoms of mental illness, poor memory and other health concerns. He is grossly exaggerating severe mental illness, he said, adding that [he was] grossly exaggerating severe psychiatric problems as well as semantic concerns, body concerns, cognitive concerns and memory complaints. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Nikolas Cruz faked extent of mental illness and was playing games with expert Timeline of the Parkland massacre 08:00 , Rachel Sharp Nikolas Cruz, the man convicted of shooting dead 17 people and injuring 17 others at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on 14 February 2018, is now facing a sentencing trial for his crimes. Cruz a former student at the institution who was a member of its air rifle team and had a lengthy disciplinary record was just 19 when he arrived that day in an Uber bearing a legally-purchased AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and gunned down 14 students and three members of staff in what proved to be one of the deadliest school massacres in American history. He was arrested later that day by police and pleaded guilty to 17 charges of first-degree murder and 17 of attempted murder, his actions sparking a nationwide protest movement demanding tighter gun control measures and an unsavoury political debate in which survivors of the attack including David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez were accused of being paid crisis actors by conspiracy-minded members of the right-wing commentariat. Heres a timeline of the massacre: A timeline of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting Who is Zachary Cruz? 10:00 , Rachel Sharp The brother of Parkland mass shooter Nikolas Cruz is believed to be starring in a reality show about his life and was previously charged with trespassing at the school where his brother murdered 17 innocent people. Zachary Cruz, 22, was expected to testify for the defence in Cruzs sentencing trial, where a jury will decide whether to give him to life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. But, the defence shocked the courtroom by resting its case on 14 September after calling less than half of its witness list with Zachary still notably absent from the witness stand. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Who is Zachary Cruz? Parkland shooters brother to testify at trial Two men charged with exploiting brother of Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz 11:00 , Rachel Sharp The two men who took Nikolas Cruzs brother under their wing in the wake of the Parkland massacre have been arrested for allegedly exploiting him just as the mass shooters sentencing trial is drawing to a close. Mike Donovan and Richard Moore, both 45, were arrested at their home in Virginia on Wednesday and charged with exploiting a mentally incapacitated person and obtaining money by false pretences. They were each released on $50,000 bond later that day. The couple, who cofounded bond servicing company Nexus, took Zachary Cruz, 22, under their wing after his brother murdered 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentines Day 2018. Zachary and Cruz, who shared the same biological mother Brenda Woodard and were adopted and raised together by Lynda and Roger Cruz, had been left orphaned in November 2017 when their adoptive mother died. The Independents Rachel Sharp has the full story: Two men charged with exploiting brother of Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz Who are Richard Moore and Mike Donovan? 12:00 , Rachel Sharp Richard Moore and his husband Mike Donovan both took Zachary Cruz under their wing after his brother murdered 17 students and staff members in the Parkland massacre. The couple, both 45, are cofounders of bond servicing company Nexus. They had never met Zachary or Nikolas Cruz prior to the 2018 mass shooting but reached out to Zachary following his trespassing arrest. Zachary moved from Florida to live with the couple and their son in their family home in Virginia. Mr Moore has attended some of Cruzs trial and was seen at the courthouse when the defence began presenting its case. He previously said that he doesnt approve of what Cruz did but believes nobody should face this alone. Mr Moores name has cropped up during the trial, with prosecutors saying that he had sent thousands of dollars of commissary to Cruz in prison this year alone and speaks regularly to the mass shooter through jailhouse phone calls. On 5 October, Mr Moore and Mr Donovan were both arrested on felony charges of exploiting Zachary. They were charged with exploiting a mentally incapacitated person and obtaining money by false pretenses and released on $50,000 bond. What weve learned so far in the trial: 13:00 , Rachel Sharp On Valentines Day 2018, Cruz traveled to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School armed with an AR-15-style rifle. There, the then-19-year-old stalked all three floors of the freshman building, shooting and killing 17 students and staff members. Cruz, now 23, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to 17 counts of murder and 17 counts of attempted murder. Now, the jury will decide whether to hand him the death penalty or to sentence him to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Heres what weve learned so far in the trial: Nikolas Cruzs sentencing trial: What weve learned so far Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Friday said there are no checks on Russian President Vladimir Putin and he would be the only person in his country to determine whether to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Putin on Friday vowed to use all available means to protect the four Ukraine regions he annexed Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia following referendums Moscow held in those territories. The votes have been denounced as a sham by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and condemned by the West. Putins statement has been interpreted as a threat over the use of nuclear weapons. Austin told CNNs Fareed Zakaria GPS he has in the past spoken to his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, and warned him against going in that direction, but the decision will ultimately be made by Putin himself. I do think he heard my message, but to be clear, the guy who makes that decision I mean, its one man. There are no checks on Mr. Putin, Austin said. Just as he made the irresponsible decision to invade Ukraine, he could make another decision. But I dont see anything right now that would lead me to believe that he has made such a decision. Last month, Putin had issued a similar warning, saying he wasnt bluffing about doing anything in his power to protect Russia. What we have to do is take it very seriously, watch for signs of actual preparations, CIA Director William Burns told CBS Evening News last week. Austin also spoke on the progress of Ukraines counteroffensive, which appears to be weakening Russias position in the battlefield, and in part the trigger for Putins decision to move ahead with the annexations. What were seeing now is a kind of change in the battlefield dynamics, Austin told CNNs Fareed Zakaria. Theyve done very, very well in the Kharkiv area and moved to take advantage of opportunities. The fight in the the Kherson regions going a bit slower, but theyre making progress. Putin also called up to 300,000 reservists to join his countrys forces in Ukraine. That order has been met with challenges, with Russians in some regions reportedly getting drafted despite their failure to meet the eligibility criteria. Story continues Over the weekend, Ukraine retook control of the city of Lyman in the east, and continued moving into the Luhansk region, CNN reported, citing pro-Russian officials. Meanwhile, Ukraine has fast-tracked its application to join the NATO military alliance. While it has earned the support of nine countries, it needs to have the backing of all 30 members to join. This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Tooth decay can cause pain, embarrassment, missed school and more. Olga Simonova/EyeEm via Getty Images Brushing your teeth is essential for maintaining optimal oral health, but like most aspects of health, the full story is more complicated. As directors of the Center for Oral Health Research in Appalachia, we know firsthand that inequalities exist when it comes to oral health, including in children. Some people or groups have considerably more oral health problems than others because of a combination of factors beyond personal dental hygiene. For example, Appalachia which stretches from the northern part of Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia up through the southern part of New York, and includes all of West Virginia has one of the greatest burdens of oral health problems per person in the U.S. October is National Dental Hygiene Month, which provides an opportunity to draw more attention to this chronic but often preventable problem. Oral health defined While the terms dental hygiene and dental health are largely focused on the teeth and gums, oral health is more comprehensive. According to the FDI World Dental Federation, oral health encompasses the proper functioning of the mouth, including ones ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions without pain or discomfort. Oral health affects not only a persons teeth but also overall well-being and quality of life. Tooth decay affects children all across the U.S., but far too little attention is paid to how preventable and treatable it is. Cavities, or caries, are the most common chronic disease in kids five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than environmental allergies, despite being preventable. More than 40% of children have tooth decay when they start kindergarten. However, people who have less formal education or lower incomes, marginalized ethnic and racial groups and those living in more rural areas, such as Appalachia, tend to have more oral health problems than others, and at younger ages. The greater prevalence of childhood tooth decay in specific populations is not only an inequity but also a serious public health problem. Oral health problems early in life extend into adulthood and can be lifelong. Story continues County economic status in Appalachia, fiscal 2023. Appalachian Regional Commission Beyond personal dental hygiene Its a common misconception that consuming sugary foods and beverages is the only cause of tooth decay. While that is undoubtedly a problem, theres much more to good oral health. It includes consistent brushing and flossing; eating healthy foods, like fresh fruits and vegetables; avoiding tobacco products; and wearing mouth guards while playing certain sports. Regular visits for dental care are also critical, as they provide an opportunity for cleanings and preventive care. Oral health in kids is a reflection of their overall health and that of their families; however, in addition to behavioral and social influences, genetic and other biological factors are also at play. For example, genes influencing taste preferences such as those for sweet foods are associated with cavities on certain teeth and surfaces of teeth. Its possible that our taste genes predispose some of us to prefer consuming sweet foods and drinks, which is a risk factor for developing cavities. Bacteria and other microorganisms in the mouth, known as the oral microbiome, also play a role. Some parts of the oral microbiome are beneficial and even required for good oral health. Other bacteria are invaders that can lead to oral diseases. Just as important are environmental factors, including air quality, access to healthy foods, the cost of dental care, access to transportation to and from the dentist, and school-based programs that encourage good oral hygiene among children. Whether one lives in a community with fluoridated water or otherwise has access to fluoride treatments is also important, as fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay. Water quality in communities is another factor. If the only available water is toxic or unappealing, people may turn to soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages. Additionally, mothers perceived social support and parents social networks can influence their childrens oral health too. Among mothers with a high number of cavities, the availability of someone to talk to about problems has been shown to be associated with fewer cavities in their children. Parents can help improve their kids oral health by modeling good oral hygiene themselves. Nitat Termmee/Moment via Getty Images Role modeling good oral health Parents and caregivers own oral health greatly influences that of their children. Kids and their parents typically drink the same water and many of the same beverages and eat a lot of the same foods. Children often follow the dental hygiene habits of their parents as well. Children typically take on their parents and caregivers feelings about dental visits too whether its comfort, stress, anxiety or fear. Parents thoughts about dental care influence their decisions about preventive care. Dental fear and anxiety can lead to delay or avoidance of dental appointments for themselves and their children. Oral health values the importance one places on maintaining natural and good-looking teeth affect decision-making about dental hygiene and professional dental care. Depression in parents can even influence their own dental hygiene and oral health and that of their children. Dental problems in kids can lead to missed school, pain and embarrassment about visible decay, and missing or crooked teeth. Teeth and gums are critical for speaking, eating, development and appearance. They affect social functioning and ones enjoyment of food. Kids dental problems affect their parents, too, as they can result in parents unexpectedly missing work to bring their child to the dentist. What can be done to improve oral health? To a great extent, dental problems in kids can be prevented. Some preventive steps are affected by economic, educational and health care factors. One of the best things parents or caregivers can do is to establish a relationship for their child with a dental practitioner, practice, office or clinic to promote prevention but also to provide emergency care if needed. Within the oral health world, this relationship is called a dental home. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and other professional health organizations recommend that children see an oral health care provider before age 1 or at the emergence of the first tooth. Access to dental treatment, especially preventive care, has been shown to improve oral health in families and their communities. System-level changes are surely needed too. Since cost affects whether parents can provide their children with routine dental care, greater access to dental insurance is an important step to ensuring equal access and reducing oral health inequities. Integrating oral health practices into schools and educational programs is another system-level change that would benefit all children regardless of their familys socioeconomic status. Oral health is a critical factor in a persons overall health. Teaching kids this early can help them develop a healthy smile and care for their pearly whites throughout their lives. This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. It was written by: Daniel W. McNeil, West Virginia University and Mary L. Marazita, University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences. If you found it interesting, you could subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Read more: Daniel W. McNeil receives funding from the National Institutes of Health, including the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Mary L. Marazita receives funding from the National Institutions of Health, specifically the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). Jurors will soon deliberate the fate of Mexican actor Pablo Lyle for the fatal punch landed on motorist Juan Ricardo Hernandez three years ago. And frame by frame, second by second, the surveillance video of the encounter will be key to their decision. Lawyers on Monday urged jurors to interpret the clip in different ways. Prosecutors urged jurors to convict Lyle of manslaughter, saying the video clearly shows Hernandez was walking back to his car after he got out at an intersection and berated the actors brother-in-law for poor driving. The young, fit Lyle ran at the 63-year-old Hernandez. One punch. Hernandez fell to the ground, cracked his skull on the road and died four days later in the hospital. This video is not a scene from a soap opera. Its not a scene from a movie. Its not rehearsed. Its not scripted. Its real, prosecutor Gabriela Alfaro told jurors on Monday during closing arguments. It shows you what he was feeling was not fear. It was anger. It was not necessary to protect himself or anyone in that car. Miami, Florida, October 3, 2022 - Prosecuting attorney Gabriela Alfaro, makes the closing arguments for the State during the trial ofPablo Lyle in Miami-Dade Criminal Court. Pablo Lyle is accused of killing 63-year-old Juan Ricardo Hernandez during a road rage incident in 2019. But the actors defense attorney instead ripped Hernandez as the instigator, starting with the man banging on the drivers side of the Lyle familys SUV, terrifying the young children inside. Looking over the video, Mr. Hernandez is trying to open that door, defense attorney Philip Reizenstein told jurors. When Lyle got out, the lawyer said, he saw Hernandez walking away and had no idea if he might return to his car to grab a weapon. It was a split-second decision, made to defend his family, he said. You watch the video, you decide if for Pablo, this was a role to play, if he was acting, Reizenstein said. READ MORE: Mexican actor killed Cuban man. Cultural, class divide raise concerns in a Miami trial Attorneys delivered their closing arguments on Monday, setting the stage for a Miami jury to decide whether Lyle is guilty of manslaughter in a case that has captivated the public across Florida and Latin America. The 6-person jury will return on Tuesday to deliberate. If convicted, Lyle faces to 15 years in prison. Story continues His defense team rested its case on Monday, with the actor himself declining to take the stand in his own defense. Lyle, 35, was a veteran if still up-and-coming actor in Mexico, the star of several Televisa telenovelas and a Netflix crime show called Yankee. But even as career was derailed, his notoriety grew after his fatal encounter with Hernandez on a Miami roadway on March 31, 2019. That day, Lyle and his family were in a SUV headed back to Miami International Airport on March 31, 2019, after a 10-day vacation visiting family. He was being driven by his brother-in-law, Lucas Delfino, who got off on the wrong exit and cut off Hernandez while trying to get to a left lane to make a U-turn. Miami, Florida, October 3, 2022 - Attorney for the defense, Phillip Reizenstein, makes final arguments in the trial of Pablo Lyle in Miami Dade Criminal Court. Pablo Lyle is accused of killing 63-year-old Juan Ricardo Hernandez during a road rage incident in 2019. Hernandez honked his horn, pulled up behind Delfino at the intersection, got out and approached the SUV. Delfino got out and the two argued briefly, before the SUV began rolling into the intersection because it was not in park. Delfino ran back to the SUV, while Lyle had gotten out to try and stop the rolling. Thats when he ran at Hernandez and punched him in his interview with Miami police, Lyle later said he was anxious. Prosecutors have downplayed Hernandezs actions, saying he merely wanted to voice his discontent and the video does not show him trying to get into the SUV. They also pointed out that Hernandez raised his hands up trying to defend himself in the split second before the punch. If Im not telling you to like that the victim got out of his car, but you heard from officers that this was not a crime, and he didnt put his hands on anyone, prosecutor Shawn Abuhoff said. But the defense lawyer said the state was minimizing Hernandezs unwarranted aggression, and pointed to Lyles wifes testimony that the children inside the SUV were hysterical at the mans banging and cursing. They want to paint [Hernandez] in a particular way because they dont like the facts, Reizenstein said. (Reuters) - The number of non-European Union citizens ordered to leave Italy jumped over 2,000% in April-June from January-March, the bloc's statistics office said on Monday, though the largest number of such orders was issued by France. Italy ordered 6,020 people to leave its territory in the second quarter against 260 in the first three months of the year, the biggest increase among EU countries, Eurostat said. That was the highest number recorded for Italy since the third quarter of 2020, when the country ordered 6,850 non-EU citizens to leave. In terms of total numbers, France recorded the highest figure, with 33,450 non-EU citizens ordered to leave its territory in April-June, over a third of the 96,550 EU total. Greece, with the next highest number, told 8,750 non-EU citizens to leave. Algerians received the largest number of orders to leave, with about 8,170 people affected, closely followed by Moroccans, Albanians and Pakistanis. France also ranked top in returning 3,590 non-EU citizens to another country following an order to leave, amounting to 16% of the bloc's total returns. Albanians topped the list of returnees, followed by Georgians and Russians. Overall, the number of orders to leave the EU was up 15% year-on-year, while the number of people returned to another country increased by 11%. (Reporting by Dina Kartit and Valentine Baldassari; Edited by Mark Potter) Photograph: Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP The founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group and four associates planned an armed rebellion to keep Donald Trump in power after he lost the election, a federal prosecutor contended on Monday as the most serious case yet went to trial involving the attack on the US Capitol on 6 January 2021. Stewart Rhodes and his band of far-right militants were prepared to go to war to stop Joe Biden from becoming president, assistant US attorney Jeffrey Nestler told jurors. The group celebrated the Capitol attack as a battle they had won and continued their plot even after Bidens November 2020 electoral victory was certified by Congress in the early hours of 7 January, Nestler alleged. Related: Capitol attack officer Fanone hits out at weasel McCarthy in startling interview Their goal was to stop, by whatever means necessary, the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by taking up arms against the United States government, the prosecutor said during his opening statement. They concocted a plan for armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy. Rhodes and the four others are the first January 6 defendants to stand trial on the charge of seditious conspiracy, a rare civil war-era charge that calls for up to 20 years behind bars, which they deny. The stakes are high for the US Department of Justice (DoJ), which last secured a seditious conspiracy conviction at trial nearly 30 years ago. Rhodes attorney painted a far different picture, describing the Oath Keepers as a peacekeeping force. He accused prosecutors of building their case on cherry-picked evidence from messages and videos and told jurors that the true picture would show that the Oath Keepers had merely been preparing for presidential orders they expected from Trump but never came. Stewart Rhodes meant no harm to the Capitol that day. Stewart Rhodes did not have any violent intent that day, Rhodes attorney, Phillip Linder, said. The story the government is trying to tell you today is completely wrong. Story continues On trial with Rhodes, of Granbury, Texas, are Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers, Kenneth Harrelson, another Florida member of the group, Thomas Caldwell, a retired US navy intelligence officer from Virginia, and Jessica Watkins, who led an Ohio militia group. They face several other charges as well. About 900 people have been charged and hundreds convicted in the Capitol attack. Rioters stormed police barriers, fought with officers, smashed windows and temporarily halted the certification of Bidens electoral victory. Prosecutors told jurors the insurrection was no spontaneous outpouring of election-fueled rage but part of a detailed, drawn-out plot to stop Biden from entering the White House. Rhodes began plotting to overturn Bidens victory right after the election, Nestler said. He told his followers during the planning stage that it will be torches and pitchforks time if they (Congress) dont do the right thing, according to an encrypted Signal message he sent to his followers that was shown to the jury by prosecutors. During a December media interview, Rhodes called senators traitors and warned that the Oath Keepers would have to overthrow, abort or abolish Congress. Before coming to Washington, they set up quick reaction force teams with weapons of war stashed at a Virginia hotel, the prosecutor said. As Oath Keepers stormed the Capitol, Rhodes stayed outside, like a general surveying his troops on a battlefield, Nestler said. After the attack, the Oath Keepers were elated, Nestler said. These defendants were fighting a war and they won a battle on January 6 but they planned to continue waging that war to stop the transfer of power prior to Inauguration Day. Thankfully their plans were foiled, Nestler said. Defense attorneys say the Oath Keepers came to Washington only to provide security at events for figures such as Trump ally Roger Stone before the presidents big outdoor rally behind the White House. Rhodes has said there was no plan to attack the Capitol and that the members who did acted on their own. Rhodes lawyer told jurors that his client will take the stand to argue that he believed Trump was going to invoke the Insurrection Act and call up a militia. The Obamas are 30 years strong. Barack and Michelle Obama celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on Monday with photos showing how far theyve come on their journey together. After 30 years, Im not sure why you look exactly the same and I dont, the former president captioned two photos of the couple on Twitter, one from their wedding day and one taken more recently. I do know that I won the lottery that daythat I couldnt have asked for a better life partner. Miche, After 30 years, Im not sure why you look exactly the same and I dont. I do know that I won the lottery that daythat I couldnt have asked for a better life partner. Happy anniversary, sweetheart! pic.twitter.com/sYGKPOff1O Barack Obama (@BarackObama) October 3, 2022 The former first lady shared similar snaps on her Twitter page while calling the last three decades of their marriage an adventure. These last 30 years have been an adventure, and Im grateful to have you by my side. Heres to a lifetime together, she tweeted. The couple first met in their 20s in 1989 while they were both working for a Chicago law firm. I remember being struck by how tall and beautiful she was, Barack Obama recalled in 2007. I asked her out. She refused. I kept asking. She kept refusing. Happy anniversary to the man I love! These last 30 years have been an adventure, and Im grateful to have you by my side. Heres to a lifetime together. I love you, @BarackObama! pic.twitter.com/HcDjbLl2x6 Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) October 3, 2022 Finally, he said, she relented by agreeing to a first date at a museum, followed by a movie and ice cream. Two years later, he surprised her by proposing while they were having dinner to celebrate Barack passing his bar exam. Story continues I was completely shocked, she recalled to ABC News, describing how she found an engagement ring in the waiters dessert tray. She gave an enthusiastic yes and the couple married in Chicago on Oct. 3, 1992. The former president has widely credited his wife with much of his success in life. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama attend the Inaugural Ball at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 21, 2013. (Photo: Photo by Nikki Kahn/The Washington Post via Getty Images) President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama attend the Inaugural Ball at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 21, 2013. (Photo: Photo by Nikki Kahn/The Washington Post via Getty Images) Obviously I couldnt have done anything that Ive done without Michelle. ... Not only has she been a great first lady, she is just my rock, he said in a 2011 interview. I count on her in so many ways every single day. In terms of their marital success, Michelle has said it requires work and more than just feeling love at first sight. It has to be a true partnership, and you have to really, really like and respect the person that youre married to, she said in 2011 . If in the end, you can look him in the eye and say, I like you, and, you know, I stopped believing in love at first sight. I think you go through that wonderful love stage, but when it gets hard, you need a little bit more. This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Related... To say that Ana de Armas is having a big moment in her career is a massive understatement. I mean, between landing a role in Netflix's upcoming film The Gray Man alongside Rege-Jean Page, Ryan Gosling, *and* Chris Evans and starring as the iconic Marilyn Monroe in the film Blonde, the actor has reached bona fide A-lister status seemingly overnight. And because we're nosy and simply j'adore gossip, we couldn't help but dive head-first into the details surrounding her low-key romance with Tinder VP Paul Boukadakis. Rumors about the duo have been circling for over a year, so you better believe we put on our best Sherlock Holmes 'fit and began investigating. You're welcome! Ana's boyfriend Paul is from Tulsa, Oklahoma Paul grew up in the southern city and attended Bishop Kelley High School, per a 2016 interview with Entrepreneur. During the convo, he returned to his alma mater to test out a video-sharing app called Wheela company he was the CEO and co-founder of at the time. We have taken the concept and we have seeded it in the Midwest, he dished to the outlet. We went back to our roots. A lot of people on the East and West Coast get first glimpses of products. We wanted to take it back to the Heartland...These kids, they are creating a la carte, they are doing things on different platforms that show a different side of themselves. And this is that next tool in their arsenal for creativity. I don't think innovation is ever going to stop. They are always going to find the next thing to create through. He's had multiple careers Prior to creating Wheel (which was originally called Ferris), Paul worked as a director and commercial editor for over ten years, according to a June 2015 interview with The App Guy podcast. Before I started Ferris, I was a music video and commercial director for about 10 years, he explained, adding that it was this creative background that sparked the idea for the video app he would go on to create. Story continues Photo credit: Brad Barket/Gotham - Getty Images I'm the type of person that believes people are capable of doing many great things at different points in their life. I think a lot of times, when people are comfortable in a job, they get scared to take a risk. They're afraid to lose that comfortability. I call it The Forrest Gump Mindset, where you're able to do a lot of great things, you just have to try, he continued. In 2017, Ferris-slash-Wheel ended up being acquired by Tinder, which resulted in his title changing to the company's vice president of special initiatives. Mkay, impressive! Paul and Ana reportedly live together in NYC According to Elle, Paul and Ana currently live together in an apartment in The Big Apple. The actor even opened up this summer about her decision to leave Los Angeles after seven years, saying the overload of attention surrounding her and her ex-boyfriend Ben Affleck's 'ship contributed to the move. Photo credit: BG004/Bauer-Griffin - Getty Images Going through it [myself] confirmed my thoughts about, 'This is not the place for me to be.' It became a little bit too much. There's no escape. There's no way out...It's always the feeling of something that you don't have, something missing. It's a city that keeps you anxious, she confessed. Ana and Paul recently attended the Venice Film Festival together Because there's nothing like being in love in Italy! Earlier this month, the actor and the Tinder VP were spotted in Venice enjoying a truly stunning water taxi ride and looking in love during the 79th Venice International Film Festival, where Ana was promoting her most recent film, Blonde. They've been together for *at least* a year The low-key couple's 'ship was seemingly confirmed when they were first spotted together in September 2021. You can check out the pics this way. In June, Page Six reported the two were dating, with a source adding that, [Paul] is based in Austin, but splits his time between Texas and Santa Monica. He has been spending a lot of time with Ana before she left the U.S. to film her new movie. They met through mutual friends In that same June Page Six piece, the source who spoke with the outlet also added, Paul and Ana were introduced through friends during the pandemic. The insider additionally claimed that the duo had been together for a few months already. In-ter-est-ing! They celebrated Ana's birthday on set Ana recently dished all about her birthday this past spring to Elle, noting that Paul was in attendance and made it v special. I had everybody with me: my man, my dogs, Chris [Evans aka her co-star on The Gray Man] and the crew. I wasn't home having a romantic dinner; I was on set with my people doing what I love and at the beach and having a shot of Fireball. So that was my 34th birthday. And it is the happiest I've been, she gushed. 'Kay, beyond cute! Also love a fellow Fireball girlie \_()_/. Aaaaand that's pretty much all we know for now, but check back soon since we'll be updating this story as more deets about Ana and Paul emerge. You Might Also Like NextShark A Chinese woman thought she was the victim of racism after receiving a letter from her alma mater addressed to a Ms. Ching Chong, but was shocked and relieved to learn the truth. Former University of Queensland student Sierra Chen took to the Facebook group UQ Stalkerspace, which is described as a platform for discourse about University of Queensland campus life, to share the letter she received from the university and to see if anyone could help her contact the addressee to verify whether the letter was sent maliciously. In her post, Chen said the contents of the letter were not unusual, but the name listed as the recipient concerned her, as ChingChong is a racial discrimination word against [sic] Chinese. VALENTYNA ROMANENKO MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 16:59 The police have discovered another torture chamber that belonged to the occupiers in the liberated Kharkiv Oblast. Source: the National Police of Ukraine Details: After the village of Pisky-Radkivski was liberated, the police have been documenting the war crimes committed by the Russian army in this village. Law enforcement officers discovered another Russian torture chamber in a cellar where locals were held in inhumane conditions. People were intimidated, beaten up and abused. Quote: "When the Russian troops entered the village, they threw locals out of their houses and moved in there themselves. When the Russian occupiers retreated, they left behind looted houses, mud and filth the signature of the "Russian world" [the concept of total domination of Russian culture over other cultures; it gives right to and "legitimises" Russias current expansionist, colonial politics ed.]. They left tripwires on the doors of the houses where they had lived." Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Contents of the 1922 time capsule at St. John United Church of Christ in Mokena include the Bible and old photographs. (Jessie Molloy / Daily Southtown) St. Johns United Church of Christ in Mokena commemorated the 100th anniversary of its buildings construction Sunday by publicly opening a pair of time capsules which have been sealed in the sanctuarys cornerstone. After a special service for World Communion Day during which three new members of the church were confirmed, the church held a reception for members to view the time capsules contents and enjoy refreshments baked by volunteers using recipes compiled in cookbooks published by the church from members dating back to 1970. Advertisement We wanted to make it a day where more people would come and to celebrate all the generations of church members, said committee member and church photographer Brenda Guendling. Planning the event was a multigenerational effort, with committee members ranging in age from 40 to 91. Dave Kropp and Helen Warning were the oldest members, with Kropp providing family photos from the construction of the church. Advertisement Items from the 1987 time capsule including an old issue of the Southtown Economist and a commemorative plate. (Jessie Molloy / Daily Southtown) Although the church was founded in 1862, the modern building was not constructed until 1922. Early in the construction process, members of the congregation led by Pastor William Kreis assembled a time capsule and encased it in the buildings cornerstone. The capsule was left undisturbed until 1987, when, to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the churchs founding, the time capsule was unearthed and a second capsule was created to be buried alongside it. Despite knowing the capsule was buried in the cornerstone, Centennial Planning Committee Chairman Deeks Carroll said we had to find the time capsule with very little knowledge of where it was located. Going off old records and a crack in the brick, the committee opened the wall of the tower hoping to find the time capsules last fall, and came up empty-handed. We tried opening several spots in the wall, but to no avail. Carroll said. People were starting to joke and call me Geraldo Rivera. The committee eventually sought help from several community members who had been part of the church during the 1987 celebrations. That included committee member Pam Schonwise and her husband, Marc, who brought a metal detector to find where to dig in the brickwork, and Jim Vainowski, who constructed the box used as the 1987 capsule. After locating the newer box with the metal detector in May, it was Vainowski who recalled the original capsule had been buried beneath it and eventually chiseled it out from. It had been mortared over, Carroll explained. It was like excavating King Tuts tomb. The Rev. Rocky Sheneman and Committee Chair Deeks Carroll during the centennial celebration. (Jessie Molloy / Daily Southtown) We had a bit of an adventure trying to find them, said the Rev. Rocky Sheneman, the churchs pastor. It never occurred to us to use a metal detector until one of the guys happened to have one and brought it over. Advertisement Since the exterior of the 1987 capsule showed signs of water damage, the boxes were quickly opened and committee members Pam Schonwise and Chris Maluta laid out the contents to dry. The 1922 box, which was made of solid copper, was completely unharmed. Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > Inside the 1922 capsule was a copy of the Bible and a hymnal, several faded black-and-white photos of members of the congregation, a set of U.S. coins dating from 1894 to 1922, and a number of old bulletins and documents from the German Evangelical Synod. The 1987 capsule included similar church documents, books from the religious education program, several old editions of the Frankfort/Mokena/New Lenox Weekly Southtown Economist, a forerunner of the Daily Southtown. The box also contained an ornament of the church which had been made and sold as part of a fundraiser and a note sent back to the religious education students from Indiana after a balloon launch celebrating the 125th anniversary. Dave Krupp and Helen Warning were senior members of the committee for the centennial celebration. (Jessie Molloy / Daily Southtown) Church member and community historian Matthew Galik and his father compiled a small book on the churchs history, which also documents the journey to find the time capsules. They were signing copies as a fundraiser at the reception. Ive been interested in the communitys history since I was in junior high, Galik said. I knew the anniversary was coming up so I put together all of my files on the church and compiled it into the book to tell the story of the building was born. The committee plans to host another event or two to display the items for those who were unable to attend the unveiling. They will also continue to meet to work out plans for a third time capsule to be stored again with the others for future generations, though it is possible the boxes will be put somewhere inside the church building itself, instead of the cornerstone. Advertisement There is not a lot of room in there and the one was water damaged, Sheneman said. They might be put somewhere else this time, but well be sure to make a record and a memory of where they are so theyll be easier to find. Jessie Molloy is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown. The Millington Police Department is investigating after a person was shot near a First South Financial Credit Union. Police said it happened at 1:00 a.m. on October 2 in the 7800 block of Church St. A person was shot and is in stable condition, according to the Millington Police Department. This is an active investigation. Anyone with information is urged to call crimestoppers at 901.528.CASH. Download the FOX13 Memphis app to receive alerts from breaking news in your neighborhood. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD Trending stories: WASHINGTON The highest-profile trial to be held so far against participants in the Capitol riot got underway Monday as prosecutors began to show jurors how a group of far-right Oath Keepers plotted to stop the peaceful transfer of presidential power from Donald Trump to Joe Biden. The Oath Keepers founder, Elmer Stewart Rhodes, sat alongside four others linked to the extremist group in federal court, where they are charged with seditious conspiracy against the United States. Rhodes is expected to take the stand himself, his lawyer said. Jeffrey Nestler, assistant U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, used his opening statements to emphasize how Rhodes and his co-defendants Kelly Meggs, Kenneth Harrelson, Jessica Watkins and Thomas Caldwell threatened the core democratic custom of the routine and peaceful transfer of power observed since the countrys founding. These defendants tried to change that history, Nestler said. Their philosophy, he told jurors, perverts the Constitutional order. Phillip Linder, a lawyer for Rhodes, countered that while the jury may not like some of the things presented at trial, that did not mean they were illegal. The real evidence is going to show that our clients were there to do security on the 5th and 6th, Linder said. He added: Theyre not a violent group. Attorneys for other defendants also significantly downplayed their clients roles in the riot, suggesting they were there to help others. Caldwells attorney said the disabled veteran couldnt storm his way out of a paper bag. Watkins attorney said that, as a transgender woman, she didnt feel like she fit into the group, and that a lot of things that she did that day were to try and fit in good and bad. Elmer Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers, speaks during a rally outside the White House in Washington, June 25, 2017. (Photo: via Associated Press) Elmer Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers, speaks during a rally outside the White House in Washington, June 25, 2017. (Photo: via Associated Press) The charge of seditious conspiracy carries a maximum sentence of 20 years behind bars. It is rarely used the last time the government attempted to use it was in 2010, against members of a far-right Michigan militia who were ultimately acquitted. Story continues The governments case against the Oath Keepers, however, appears to be a stronger one. Group text messages obtained by law enforcement illustrate the alleged planning efforts that led the Oath Keepers to arrive at a hotel outside the capital with cases full of high-powered rifles and ammunition, along with tactical gear and essential supplies to last 30 days. FBI agents found that an RV parked nearby contained grenades. The plan, according to prosecutors, was to have the weapons within arms reach in the event they were able to use them on Jan. 6, 2021. At the time, then-President Trump had incorrectly asserted that Vice President Mike Pence held the power to stop Congress from certifying Bidens win in the 2020 presidential election. But communications show that Rhodes did not believe Pence would do anything to stop the certification. Instead, Rhodes believed Trump might invoke the Insurrection Act, an 1807 law he appeared to think would allow members of militias to intervene in order to keep Trump in power. Nestler displayed text messages and audio recordings of Rhodes claiming that all Trump had to do was utter Insurrection Act and it would give the Oath Keepers legal cover to engage in violence. A recording of Rhodes showed him saying that Trump supporters had to prepare to overthrow, abort or abolish Congress by force. We arent getting through this without a civil war, Rhodes wrote in one text message. Several short videos from the Capitol attack played in court reminded jurors how chaotic the Jan. 6 riot was. In one of them, several of the defendants can be seen moving in a stack formation up to the Capitol, wearing helmets and other tactical gear. Prosecutors allege that Rhodes was prepared for significant bloodshed. The anti-government group he founded in the wake of Barack Obamas election was one of the most prominent involved in the Capitol attack, along with the Proud Boys, a white supremacist street gang. Their planning allegedly began soon after it became apparent that Biden had won the 2020 election. Rhodes took part in a Signal thread with Trump adviser Roger Stone. He implored others in a different leadership chat on Signal that we MUST refuse to accept Biden as a legitimate winner, adding that they should protect and defend all who are publicly standing against it. The Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers planned to hold a military-style basic training, which Watkins described as mandatory in one text message to a new recruit sent Nov. 9, 2020. Take the time off work in advance, Watkins told the recruit. I need you fighting fit by inauguration. The Oath Keepers, which takes its name from the oaths taken by members of the military and law enforcement, specifically aims to recruit former military and law enforcement officers as members, and several of the defendants are also veterans. These defendants narrative is that they were patriots, Nestler said. They were not. On Jan. 6, Trump supporters descended on the Capitol at the conclusion of Trumps so-called Save America rally outside the White House. As they did, Rhodes served as a general overlooking the battlefield, Nestler said. He was allegedly in constant communication with Oath Keepers and affiliates who stormed the building Meggs, Watkins and Harrelson among them. Prosecutors said that Caldwell stayed behind at the Virginia hotel with the weapons, serving in a quick reaction force that could rush the cache to the Capitol if needed. Washington has strict laws regarding firearms, while Virginia does not, Nestler reminded the jurors. If the group had brought the rifles across the border into the district at the start of the day, they risked being intercepted by police, he said. The move was a calculating one, not a law-abiding one, Nestler said. A recording of Rhodes speaking in the days after the riot showed him stating that his only regret was that the Oath Keepers should have brought rifles. The defendants who went to the Capitol split up once inside. Watkins tried to breach the Senate chamber before getting sprayed with chemical irritants by law enforcement and backing off. Meggs, Harrelson and others tried finding House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Nestler said. Another co-conspirator said in a text message displayed in court that he was hoping to see Nancys head rolling down the front steps of the building. Meggs responded, We looked for her. But they didnt find her. Members of Congress including Pelosi had been shepherded to safety by law enforcement during the assault of the Capitol before reconvening late that evening to finish their certification process. The first witness of the trial, FBI Special Agent Michael Palian, was among the roughly 70 agents who showed up to protect members of Congress. He said the group walked between 80 to 85 senators through underground tunnels back to their chamber. I think shock would be the best word to describe what the senators were feeling at that point, Palian recalled. There was crying. Among the more alarming allegations made in the Oath Keepers trial is that Rhodes went to a nearby hotel midafternoon on Jan. 6 and tried to contact Trump himself. A cooperating witness said he saw Rhodes call someone close to Trump, begging to speak with him or at least pass along a message to invoke the Insurrection Act, but did not succeed. In court on Monday, Linder said that phone call never happened. Extremism experts told HuffPost that a successful conviction could damage the Oath Keepers, which the Anti-Defamation League estimates to be around 1,000 to 3,000 strong. But the sentiments motivating its members will remain, and other violent far-right groups at the fringe will be ready to accept new recruits. This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Related... Its Hispanic Heritage Month and the signs and advertisements celebrating the culture are abundant. I feel, as I often do this time of year, mixed emotions. As a Mexican-American educator, I understand the good intentions behind the signs; celebrating diversity and honoring different cultures should be applauded. But if we really want to celebrate the culture and give Latino students a true sense of belonging in their schools, we should do far more than have a program, assembly or fancy celebration to honor our students heritage. Instead, we should look at the foundational role that families play within Latino culture and embrace and honor those values. Values of belonging, collaboration and hard work. Growing up in Los Angeles, I was often surrounded by my large extended family. Both my parents are from Jalisco, Mexico: my mother is one of 11 siblings and my father is one of six. Many of my aunts, uncles and cousins also moved to Los Angeles. My Dad instilled in me the importance of courage, and the value of hard work as the expression of ones integrity and honor. But despite these important family values, as a first-generation student, I lacked the resources or institutional knowledge to easily navigate the U.S. education system it took me seven years just to complete college. Now that our nieces and nephews are getting ready to go to college, we make sure they have the tools to navigate the complex higher education system. This is part of our family culture: a shared responsibility to pass along what you learn, paving the way for the next generation. Our family also instilled a sense of belonging and security that gave us the courage to take risks after all, theres no bigger risk than immigrating to a foreign land. Imagine if school communities embodied Latino family norms; where responsibility is shared, accountability is collective and a sense of belonging lives. Can you imagine what that might look like? We strive to do this every day at our school. Like many Latino families, we emphasize working in groups and collaborative efforts over a focus on the individual. Story continues We see you and got you. Those words hold power. Its about knowing that your community, your group, has your back. Family has your back. This is something we discuss at our schools because it resonates deeply with our students: to be seen, to know you are unconditionally supported. At Aspire Public Schools Los Angeles-area schools, where the majority of our students identify as Latino, we embrace this idea, to make our students feel safe and supported unconditionally, in everything we do. Related: Latino Students Will Soon Be 30% of All Public School Enrollment: Now What? For example, at Aspire Ollin University Prep where I worked for 12 years, we created an advisory group program at our secondary school. Freshmen are placed into micro-communities of about 30 students with one teacher who stays with the group all four years. Weekly community circles and guided conversations about issues that affect our scholars lives help them feel seen and supported. Like a large, extended family, these groups benefit from collaborative learning, shared responsibility and an environment built on trust and belonging. Programs like this allow us to create a familial identity at Aspire. We focus on students social-emotional learning, equity work and culturally relevant pedagogy that helps students feel supported. But most importantly, we leverage each others humanity. We support each other in providing a learning space for students and staff. A place where students learn from teachers and each other. A place where teachers learn from their students and their colleagues. Just like we learn from family. Related: A Texas Muralist Paints Her Heart Out For Uvalde When you think about how family roots children, gives them a sense of confidence and purpose and offers space to be who they really are how could you not want to embed those values in a school? We want these ideals to resonate deeply with our students. When a community of trust and belonging exists, students have the freedom to take risks and follow their intellectual curiosity. Instilling a school culture with family-inspired values brings out the genius in our students and gives them the space to enjoy their education and discover their own passions. This is how we honor Latino culture every day. Orcas have been filmed attacking two humpback whales off the coast of Washington state. The altercation was filmed by whale-watching tour crew members in the Salish Sea on the Juan de Fuca Strait, which is close to the border between the US and Canada. Eagle Wing Tours staff saw around 15 orcas being unusually active at the water surface, the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) said in a statement. A BC Whale Tours captain on a separate boat then saw the humpback whales in their midst. Footage from the incident shows orcas coming out of the water as a whale swims further away. According to the PWWA, witnesses said the sea battle went on for almost three hours. The whales at times came out of the water making loud noises. The animals then disappeared into the fog, the PWWA added. Luke Rendell of the University of St Andrews told Newsweek that the incident was normal and that the area is intensely observed. Orcas killer whales eat almost every kind of whale, including blue whales, the largest animal alive. Killer whales work in groups to defeat larger adversaries. Rendell told Newsweek that theres not enough evidence that the orcas are hunting in the footage, they may be harassing the whales for other reasons, but this is usually how feeding occurs. Mollie Naccarato of Sooke Coastal Explorations said in a statement that Im still trying to wrap my head around it because it was absolutely unbelievable. At first the orcas seemed to be chasing the humpbacks, but then when it seemed there was space between them, the humpbacks would go back toward the orcas, she added. The PWWA added in a press release that they havent spotted a humpback whale who has died because of Orcas in the Salish Sea. The number of both Orcas and humpback whales is on the rise in the area, meaning such incidents may happen more often. Reuters PARIS (Reuters) -Real Madrid's France forward Karim Benzema won the 2022 Ballon d'Or award for the best men's player in the world on Monday, while Barcelona's Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas won the women's award for a second time. Benzema, who played a pivotal role in Real's run to the Champions League title last season, is the first French player to win the trophy since Zinedine Zidane in 1998 and the fifth after Raymond Kopa, Michel Platini and Jean-Pierre Papin. WASHINGTON When the Russian invasion of Ukraine first began, Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov vowed loyalty and military support for the Kremlin. In bellicose (and frequently deceptive) social media posts, Kadyrov and his military commanders sought to use legends of Chechen military ferocity embedded deep in the Russian psyche as a countermeasure to the images of a valiant Ukrainian resistance. But when it came to sending more Chechen young men to the front last week, Kadyrov made a show of defying the Kremlin, which had just announced a partial mobilization of 300,000 troops. Chechen conscription targets had been overfulfilled, he claimed, in what was widely seen as an effort to blunt popular discontent over a military operation whose failures could no longer be disguised with blustery Telegram messages. Russias war, fought by many Muslims and poor people Discontent over the draft has extended beyond Chechnya. While many protests have taken place in the northern Caucasus, there have also been demonstrations in the Siberian city of Yakutsk and even in distant Vladivostok, near the border with North Korea. Police officers detain a man at a Moscow protest on Sept. 21 against the "partial mobilization" announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Alexander Nemenov/AFP via Getty Images) Fury at the mobilization has been especially pronounced in Dagestan, which neighbors Chechnya and shares many of its cultural attributes. I think Dagestan is going to become a hot spot for anti-mobilization protests going forward, Russia expert Samuel Ramani told Yahoo News. Unrest, sometimes, in one autonomous region can extend to others. These protests can move asymmetrically. The first to be pushed to the front will be poor boys from Tatarstan, Buryatia, Chechnya, Dagestan and other minority regions, London-based Russia analyst Jeff Hawn wrote on Twitter. The mobilization highlights a reality that has become impossible to ignore. While being fought on Russias behalf, the war is devastating mostly poor families, many of them from Muslim or Turkic backgrounds, far from the nodes of power in Moscow and St. Petersburg, where wealthier families have long used connections and bribes to absolve sons of military service. Story continues Despite the Kremlins Slavocentric emphasis, Russia is a multinational state; though it is dominated by population centers in the countrys west, the 5,600 miles from its European holdings to its Pacific coast contain a rich panoply of ethnicities, religions and cultures. Why are a lot of Muslims going to the army this way? Because they're poor," Paul Goble, a former high-ranking State Department expert on Soviet and Eurasian affairs, told Yahoo News. Enlisting men from dispossessed areas to act as replacement forces in the Ukrainian war seemed to involve little risk for an administration thoroughly oriented toward the countrys power elite. Goble describes the Kremlins approach to the mobilization as having been conducted by Russian President Vladimir Putin under a cynical premise: How do I carry this out so that few people in Moscow and St. Petersburg get rounded up? Yet the extent of the recent protests appears to suggest that the Kremlin misjudged how its mobilization order would be received in the areas it targeted. "This partial mobilization is not well planned and is likely to backfire," Goble told Yahoo News. This is a classic Soviet approach. They should know better." In shows of solidarity, Muscovites and Petersburgers have also taken to the streets, where they have frequently encountered rough police tactics. Mobilized reservists at a recruitment center in Makhachkala, Dagestan, on Sept. 22. (Stringer/TASS via ZUMA Press) Instead of evenly distributing the wars most obvious hardship that is, military service, with its resulting risk of injury and death, especially in a military as poorly trained, prepared and led as Russias the Kremlin instead concentrated those hardships in areas with few economic prospects and deepening social despair. Russia ruined everything I had The Islamic regions of Chechnya and Dagestan were subjugated by the Russian Empire in the 19th century, shortly after Ukraine was also brought under the control of the czars in St. Petersburg. Their unsuccessful attempts at independence would continue into modernity, surviving the cultural erasures of the Soviet Union and persisting into the present. Dagestan is believed to have suffered the heaviest losses of any region of Russia since the war began in Ukraine. The rugged region on the Caspian Sea coast is more than 1,000 miles from Ukraine. For many in Dagestan, making further sacrifices for the war effort has become untenable. In one protest following the mobilization order, women confronted a police officer. Why are you taking our children? Who was attacked? Russia was attacked? They didn't come to us. It was us attacking Ukraine. Russia has attacked Ukraine! Stop the war! one woman shouted at a police officer, according to the BBC. People watch mobilized troops being sent off in Makhachkala on Sept. 22. (Stringer/TASS via ZUMA Press) More than 100 people have been arrested in Makhachkala, the Dagestani capital, but even the unwelcome prospect of rough treatment by local law enforcement authorities isn't comparable to being ordered to the front, where Russian troops are facing a Western-armed Ukraine that made astonishing gains last month. It was those gains that prompted Putin to announce a mobilization two weeks ago. For the Kremlin, keeping these rugged, remote republics as part of Russia is a reminder to other ethnic minorities to put their own dreams of independence aside. Otherwise they could suffer the fate that Chechnya did during the 1990s, when its attempts at secession were ruthlessly suppressed by the Kremlin in two costly wars. The first of those wars was launched by Boris Yeltsin and ended with a devastating rout of Russian forces in the Chechen capital, Grozny. In 1999, Putin, then Russias new and untested prime minister, blamed a series of devastating apartment bombings in Moscow and other cities on Chechens, though compelling evidence points to Russias own security services as having engineered the attacks. A woman walks through the rubble of a near-flattened street in Grozny, Chechnya, in April 2000. (Stringer/EPA/Shutterstock) Putin used the bombings as justification for the second Chechen war, which he won by leveling Grozny and terrorizing its citizens. The Kadyrov family (first Akhmad and, after he was assassinated in 2004, his son Ramzan) has kept the peace since then with its own brand of pro-Kremlin ruthlessness. After the 9/11 attacks on the United States, Putin argued that his campaign against Chechnya was no different from the global war on terror launched by President George W. Bush, despite clear differences between Chechen militants and fundamentalist groups like al-Qaida. The war in Ukraine, however, appears to have brought about a shift, one that has been accelerated by Putins mobilization. Even as Kadyrov pledged his own forces to the war effort, other Chechens went to fight on the Ukrainian side. Russia ruined everything I had, one Chechen fighting for Ukraine told NPR last month. A message to Russian minorities, sent via Ukraine With its ferocious defense against the Russian invasion, Ukraine appears to have jostled long-dormant aspirations across Russia, as well as in independent former Soviet republics that live in the Kremlins shadow. As an emboldened Ukraine continues to push back demoralized Russian lines, the Kremlin has recalibrated its war aims, from outright regime change in Kyiv to holding onto the eastern and southern tracts where it is most entrenched. Yet no amount of propaganda can fully disguise the weaknesses in Russias political and military leadership that the last seven months of conflict have revealed. The Ukrainians are proving something that everyone thought was impossible, said Goble. Namely, that someone could stand up to the Russian army and at least fight it to a draw." A Ukrainian flag waves on a street of the recently liberated village of Vysokopillya, Kherson region, on Sept. 27. (Genya Savilov/AFP via Getty Images) Unlike the Ukrainians, the protesters in Dagestan and elsewhere are not fighting the Russian army. But they are also making clear that they have no interest in fighting in the Russian army against a Ukraine equipped with powerful Western weapons. Across Russia, young men desperate to avoid serving in Ukraine have been streaming into neighboring countries like Georgia and the three Baltic nations. But escape is a luxury unavailable to many. Young men stuck inside Russia are faced with the prospect of fighting in a war that has gone on far longer than the Kremlin intended, and that has already claimed an estimated 25,000 Russian lives. If the reasons for invading Ukraine were never clear, the lack of a clear objective is especially pronounced for young men and their families. Our children are not fertilizer! another woman protesting in Dagestan shouted at authorities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been courting this discontent. In a video posted to Twitter last week, he stands before a Kyiv monument to Imam Shamil, a Dagestani warrior who fought against Russian conquest. Dagestanis should not be dying in Ukraine, Zelensky says, naming other ethnic minorities being asked to make sacrifices for Russias sake. Chechens, Ingushetians, Ossetians, Circassians and any other peoples who found themselves under the Russian flag. Almost 200 different peoples. You know who is sending them to Ukraine. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a video address last week, stands in front of a Kyiv monument to Dagestani hero Imam Shamil. (Twitter) When Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February, the residents of Moscow and St. Petersburg rose up in protest. There have been anti-mobilization protests there too, but the heart of the resistance now lies hundreds of miles from those redoubts of power and wealth. The mobilization also deepens seemingly irresolvable contradictions within a multiethnic society where national identity is subordinate to rule from Moscow. The legend of the Chechens Known for keeping a pet tiger and brandishing weapons, Kadyrov, along with his adherents, has consciously burnished the prevailing image that many Russians hold of Chechens as hardscrabble fighters unafraid of either meting out death to the enemy or dying in battle themselves. In some ways, Kadyrov is the modern-day version of the larger-than-life warlords depicted in the fiction of writers like Leo Tolstoy, as well as more recent depictions of the north Caucasus in television and cinema. Kadyrov has been regularly taking to Telegram, a social media platform popular in Russia, to boast of forthcoming battlefield conquests, raising fears that the kind of brutality that once marked the fighting in Chechnya would also inform Russias conduct in Ukraine. Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of the Russian province of Chechnya, speaks to about 10,000 troops in the regional capital, Grozny, on March 29. (AP Photo) For Russians raised on the 19th century literary classics, this is the wild frontier, a land of ferocious brigands, unbreakable blood oaths and fiery passions. Its what Sicily is to the Italians, what Scotland was once to the English, Russia expert Mark Galeotti told Yahoo News. Of course, the Russian perception is based on myth, prejudice and Orientalism, but its nonetheless powerful for all that. The resistance to Putins mobilization contradicts that facile narrative, making clear to the rest of Russia that ordinary Chechens are unwilling to heed Putins order. In an effort to blunt popular discontent, Kadyrov said Chechnya had fulfilled 254% of its conscription commitment to Ukraine. While that figure is difficult to confirm, it was also an obvious signal for the Kremlin to back off. An analysis from the Institute for the Study of War described Kadyrovs resistance to the mobilization as a worrisome indicator for the Kremlin because, as that analysis argued, if one of the wars most vociferous and aggressive advocates feels the need to refuse to mobilize his people, at least publicly, that could indicate that even Kadyrov senses the popular resentment the partial mobilization will cause and possibly even fears it. While shows of defiance in Chechnya, Dagestan and elsewhere may not result in independence in the short term, it is clear that a movement has been reawakened. I don't expect the borders of the Russian Federation to be where they are now in 10 years," Russia expert Goble told Yahoo News. Cover thumbnail photo: Gavriil Grigorov/Kremlin via Reuters Walleye Fall Brawl sign-up Join the Fall Brawl team for a sign-up party and cookout on 5-8 p.m. Thursday at Mid Ohio Sporting Goods, 8447 Township Road 652, Millersburg. Take family and friends to register for the Fall Brawl and enjoy a cookout with hot dogs, sides and drinks. The mobile weigh station trailer that will be used throughout the greater Cleveland area during the Walleye Fall Brawl will be onsite. Trout Unlimited meeting The Clear Fork River Chapter of Trout Unlimited will meet at 7:15 p.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church, 621 College Ave., Wooster. In addition to meeting in-person, a Zoom option is available. To join remotely, send an email to cfrtu.rsvp@gmail.com. Indicate the Monday meeting and include name and email address. An email with an invitation will be returned. There will be a discussion of chapter activities and a raffle of fly fishing equipment. Patrick Robinson of Steelhead Alley Outfitters will speak about Steelheading the Alley. He will present the basics of steelhead fishing based on his 15 years as a guide on Steelhead Alley. He will have an extended time of sharing based on the needs and/or interests of those in attendance. Details of this and future TU meetings, plus other chapter activities and local fishing reports, can be found at cfrtu.org. All meetings are open to the public, and anyone interested in fishing and cold water fisheries preservation is encouraged to participate. Interested women anglers are especially invited to attend. Fall still shoots Fall Still shoots will be held at the Shreve Farmer's Sportsman Club through Oct. 30. Shoots start at noon with sign-up starting around 11:30 a.m. The club shoots shot, .22 and slug. Try for chance to win a variety of meat and cash prizes. The progressive jackpot is over $4,500. The club is located at 8430 Township Road 513, Shreve. For more information, contact Missy at 330-464-5621. Outdoor notes email Any group, individual or organization wishing to announce events in the Outdoor Notes section should email them to letsplabal@yahoo.com. Please put Outdoor Note in the subject line. This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Outdoor notes: Walleye Brawl, Trout Unlimited, still shoots As more rain threatened hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico on Monday, President Joe Biden promised to rebuild the island stronger than it was before it was hit by two devastating hurricanes in just five years. You have had to bear so much, Biden said, wearing an open-collar, blue oxford shirt in the steamy heat of Port of Ponce. And you havent gotten the help in a timely way. Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi pressed Biden to expand federal assistance, saying all U.S. citizens deserve the same amount of help, wherever they live. We want to be treated in the same way as our fellow Americans in the states in times of need, Pierluisi said. Biden visited the U.S. territory two days before he travels to Florida to assess rescue and recovery efforts there from Hurricane Ian. While Fiona was a Category 1 hurricane compared with Category 4 Ian, Puerto Rico had never fully recovered from Hurricane Maria, which destroyed the electrical system and killed roughly 3,000 people in 2017. President Joe Biden, flanked by first lady Jill Biden and Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi, delivers remarks in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona in Ponce, Puerto Rico, on October 3, 2022. The latest After Fiona brought islandwide power outages, more than 90% of customers have been restored with power and 95% now have water, Deanne Criswell, head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, told reporters traveling with Biden. About 120,000 still lacked power Monday, according to the tracking website PowerOutage. Although Fionas winds were not as strong as Marias, the hurricane caused a lot of water damage compared with previous storms. Puerto Rico experienced widespread landslides, damaged homes, washed-out bridges and downed power lines as torrential rains flooded the island. The federal government is paying for 30 days' worth of recovery actions, including debris removal, search-and-rescue efforts, emergency food and shelter, and power and water restoration. Pierluisi asked Biden for an additional 180 days of funding. The federal government has also temporarily waived a federal law to allow for foreign diesel deliveries to help power generators. During his visit, Biden announced Puerto Rico was receiving more than $60 million from an infrastructure package approved last year. The money is for shoring up levees, strengthening flood walls and creating a new flood warning system. Biden said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm would lead a supercharged effort to modernize Puerto Ricos power grid. Story continues Too much?: Will Puerto Ricans head to the mainland US after Hurricane Fiona? First lady Jill Biden participates in a community service project to help those impacted by Hurricane Fiona at Centro Sor Isolina Ferre Aguayo School in Ponce, Puerto Rico, October 3, 2022. What Biden did in Puerto Rico Biden was making his first trip as president to Puerto Rico, where he met with families and community leaders from the hardest-hit areas. After being briefed on ongoing recovery efforts, Biden went to a school where onions, rice, nuts, boxed juice and chickpeas were among the goods being bagged for distribution. He was accompanied by first lady Jill Biden, who helped bag food, and by Criswell. FEMA and other federal agencies have deployed more than 1,000 workers to Puerto Rico to assist the 700 employees based on the island. The personnel included search and rescue teams, bilingual Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams and power restoration experts. President Donald Trump tosses paper towels into a crowd as he hands out supplies at Calvary Chapel, Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2017, in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Biden and Fiona, Trump and Maria Bidens handling of Hurricane Fiona may draw comparisons with former President Donald Trumps dealings with Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. Trump accused island officials of poor leadership, wasteful spending and not appreciating his administration's efforts to help. The mayor of San Juan, whose leadership was criticized by Trump, in turn went after Trump for tossing rolls of paper towels into a crowd when he visited the island after Maria struck. The Biden administration, however, has drawn some criticism of its own for Fiona. Some community and nonprofit leaders questioned why Bidens disaster declaration didnt initially cover all of Puerto Rico, and complained of slow-flowing aid, Politico has reported. Puerto Ricans are also concerned their needs will be overshadowed by Florida's. Nelson Cirino sees his bedroom after the winds of hurricane Fiona tore the roof off his house in Loiza, Puerto Rico, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022. What they are saying We owe Puerto Rico a hell of a lot more than theyve already gotten, Biden said Saturday at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations Phoenix Awards. "Were confident that the president will hear our call for equal treatment," Pierluisi said. It is our fundamental priority to help Puerto Rico not only recover, but to actually prosper, Vice President Kamala Harris said. We are committed to continuing to work with the governor of Puerto Rico in his efforts to make sure that we can rebuild this grid in a way that's actually going to be more resilient for future impacts, Criswell told reporters last week. I am sure that both in Florida and Puerto Rico we WILL come back from this disaster, and as Americans we must all stand together, in a bipartisan way to make sure the rebuilding happens visibly and promptly, tweeted Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon, Puerto Ricos delegate in Congress. Want to know more? After Hurricane Ian came the floods.: These people rallied to rescue residents, horses, cows Low expectations: After Hurricane Ian hits Fort Myers, Black neighborhood residents say they arent counting on much help What's next?: Ian, Fiona shattered hopes for a quiet hurricane season. What's next? Names: See the list of tropical storm and hurricane names for 2022 This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden visits Puerto Rico, hit hard by Hurricane Fiona By Syed Raza Hassan SEHWAN, Pakistan (Reuters) - The emergency ward at the main government hospital in Sehwan, a small town in southern Pakistan, is overwhelmed. On a recent visit, Reuters witnessed hundreds of people crammed into rooms and corridors, desperately seeking treatment for malaria and other illnesses that are spreading fast after the country's worst floods in decades. Amid the crush, Naveed Ahmed, a young doctor in the emergency response department of the Abdullah Shah Institute of Health Sciences, is surrounded by five or six people trying to get his attention. The 30-year-old keeps his cool as stretched emergency services struggle to cope with thousands of patients arriving from miles around after their homes were submerged under water when heavy rains fell in August and September. "We become so overworked at times that I feel like collapsing and going on an intravenous drip," a smiling Ahmed told Reuters as he sipped a cup of tea in the hospital's canteen during a short break. "But it's because of the prayers of these patients that we keep going." Ahmed is on the frontline of the battle to limit sickness and death across southern Pakistan, where hundreds of towns and villages were cut off by rising waters. The deluge has affected around 33 million people in a country of 220 million. Most of the estimated 300-400 patients arriving at his clinic each morning, many of them children, are suffering from malaria and diarrhoea, although with winter approaching, Ahmed fears other illnesses will become more common. "I hope people displaced by the floods can get back to their homes before winter; (if not) they will be exposed to respiratory illnesses and pneumonia living in tents," he said. Hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis who fled their homes are living in government camps set up to accommodate them, or simply out in the open. Stagnant floodwaters, spread over hundreds of square kilometres (miles), may take two to six months to recede in some places, and have already led to widespread cases of skin and eye infections, diarrhoea, malaria, typhoid and dengue fever. Story continues The crisis hits Pakistan at a particularly bad time. With its economy in crisis, propped up by loans from the International Monetary Fund, it does not have the resources to cope with the longer term effects of the flooding. Nearly 1,700 people have been killed in the floods caused by heavy monsoon rains and melting glaciers. Pakistan estimates the cost of the damage at $30 billion, and the government and United Nations have blamed the catastrophe on climate change. Over 340 people have died of diseases caused by the floods, authorities have said. 'SECOND DISASTER' According to the health department of Sindh province, the worst-affected region, 17,285 cases of malaria have been confirmed since July 1. Anticipating the risk of disease outbreaks after the rescue and relief phase of the floods, the Sindh government is trying to hire more than 5,000 health professionals on a temporary basis in districts most at risk. "We are short of human resources considering the magnitude of the burden of disease following the unprecedented rains and floods," Qasim Soomro, provincial lawmaker and parliamentary health secretary of the Sindh government, told Reuters. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concern about an impending "second disaster" of water-borne diseases spreading across the country, particularly in Sindh. In the hospital ward in Sehwan, a young man with a high fever was having fits on a bed outside the main emergency room. His mother ran to Ahmed, who attended the patient and asked a male nurse to place cold pads on his forehead. The air was heavy with humidity, and there were not enough air conditioners to cool temperatures in overcrowded corridors lined with beds. The wards were filled to capacity and a handful of beds had more than one patient on them. Ahmed, a graduate of a university in China, described the pressure he and other medics were under. "With such influx, we ... cannot wait for test results for each patient to start the treatment," he said, adding he beginsadministering medicine for malaria as soon as he sees some symptoms. The institute in Sehwan serves people from neighbouring towns and districts, including those living in camps while the waters recede and rebuilding can begin. Jagan Shahani's daughter fell unconscious after getting a fever around a week ago. He used a boat to get out of his flooded village of Bhajara and flagged down a car on the nearby road that took them to Sehwan. "Doctors said she had malaria," he said late last week. "This is our fourth night here. There is nothing here to eat but Allah has been very kind to provide everything," added Shahani, whose 15-year-old daughter Hameeda is now recovering. On the outskirts of town, hundreds of displaced people queued up for rations being distributed at Lal Bagah, a tent settlement where displaced families prepared tea and breakfast on open fires. The Indus Highway that runs past Sehwan is dotted with tent camps for displaced people. Some are beginning to return home where waters have retreated far enough, but not all are so lucky. "There is no one here to help me but Allah. I pray to Allah that the waters recede in my village and I can return to my home," said Madad Ali Bozdar. Bozdar, 52, is from Bubak, a town located on the north-eastern bank of Manchar Lake. Speaking on Friday, he said his village was still under 10 to 12 feet (3-4 metres) of water. He expected to be able to go back in around two months' time. (Editing by Mike Collett-White and Raju Gopalakrishnan) RAMALLAH, West Bank (Reuters) - Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh voiced concern on Monday at Britain's decision to review the location of its embassy in Israel, fearing it could be moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. British Prime Minister Liz Truss has said she is reviewing whether or not to keep the embassy where it is. "Any change in the status quo in Jerusalem would undermine the two-state solution and will be considered a tacit recognition of the citys annexation to Israel, which will encourage the occupying state," Shtayyeh said at a weekly cabinet meeting in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank. Israel's prime minister has already said he was grateful that Truss was considering the move. The United States moved its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 2018, a move that infuriated Palestinians. Honduras, Guatemala and Kosovo have since followed suit. Should Truss do the same, Shtayyeh said, it would hurt Britain's relations with the Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims. A spokesperson for the British government's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office told Reuters in a statement that Truss "understands the importance and sensitivity of the location of the British embassy in Israel". "We are undertaking a review of the current location to ensure that we are in the best possible position to continue promoting British interests in Israel, peace and stability in the region, and in support of a two-state solution," the spokesperson said. "We will not speculate on the outcome of any review before it concludes." The Palestinians want east Jerusalem as the capital of a future state. U.S.-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed in 2014. (Reporting by Ali Sawafta, Dan Williams and Nidal al-Mughrabi, Writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi, Editing by William Maclean) Woman returning from Dubai tests positive for monkeypox A woman returning to Vietnam from Dubai has been infected with the monkeypox virus, the first case recorded in the country so far, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health announced on October 3. Illustrative photo According to the ministry's report, the 35-year-old woman residing in Ho Chi Minh City travelled to Dubai from July to September 22 on a holiday. She showed symptoms including high temperatures, muscle aches, a headache, coughs, and itchy bumps during her stay in Dubai. Upon arriving at Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat Airport, the woman underwent a test and the result came back positive for the monkeypox virus. Later genome sequencing by Oxford University and Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases also confirmed the test result. The woman has been isolated and treated at Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases. She is now in stable health. All people who came in close contact with the patient in Vietnam are being monitored, the ministry said. The Ministry of Health earlier asked people entering Vietnam from areas with monkeypox outbreaks to be monitored and suspected carriers will be quarantined. Border gates in the country have been asked to intensify monitoring measures. Suspected monkeypox cases at the border would be diagnosed and their medical and travel history analysed. People with suspected symptoms including unexplained blisters, fevers above 38 degrees Celsius, headaches and muscle aches, are advised to come to the nearest hospitals to be tested for monkeypox. They would need to either self-isolate or be isolated in hospitals while waiting for the test results. A Chicago man charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a woman multiple times in the hotel room where he was staying has been denied bond. Willie Tidwell, 50, of the 300 block of North Avenue, is accused of knifing the woman in the stomach, neck and chest after they got into an altercation about 9:15 p.m. Sept. 10 at the Extended Stay America hotel, 1827 Center Point Circle, a news release from the DuPage County States Attorneys Office said. Advertisement The woman, described as an acquaintance who was involved in a romantic relationship with the suspect, met Tidwell at his room, where a verbal fight became physical and Tidwell allegedly started hitting the victim before attacking her with a knife 11 times, the release said. After Tidwell fled, the woman called police. He was arrested Friday at a home in Calumet City, the release said. Advertisement In addition to attempted murder, a class X felony, Tidwell was also charged with aggravated domestic battery, a class 2 felony. DuPage County Judge George Ford refused Tidwells request for bond Saturday. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 31. This was a brutal act that could very easily have been fatal, and Im incredibly grateful that the victim in this case is recovering, Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres said in the release. Nearly two years after the body of a Midlands man who had been fatally shot was found partially buried behind a vacant mobile home, his killer has been convicted on a murder charge and other crimes, the Fairfield County Sheriffs Office said Monday. On Sept. 29, Osman Shareef Shabazz Jr., 24, was convicted of murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, and grand larceny, Sheriff Will Montgomery said in a news release. Shabazz was sentenced to life in prison for killing Gabriel Deshawn Brisbon, the sheriffs office said. He was given five-year prison sentences for the two other convictions, while additional charges from the arrest for ill treatment of animals and malicious injury were not prosecuted, Fairfield County court records show. This conviction represents justice for the (Brisbon) family and friends but it still does not bring Gabe back, Montgomery said in the release. I know that they still miss him and are still hurting. On January 31, 2021, Brisbon was last seen by his family and was subsequently reported missing to the sheriffs office on Feb. 2, according to the release. On Feb. 5, Brisbons body was found in an abandoned mobile home lot near the intersection of Peach Road and U.S. 321 in Winnsboro, the sheriffs office said. Brisbon had been shot multiple times and his body had been partially buried, according to the release. After he was last seen Jan. 31 at the Winnfield West Apartments in Winnsboro, Brisbons car was found days later abandoned in Columbia, according to the sheriffs office. Information on how the car ended up in Richland County was not made available. Shabazz was quickly developed as a suspect, the sheriffs office said. There was no word how the sheriffs office connected Shabazz to Brisbons death, or a motive for the shooting. On Feb. 5, a search began for Shabazz, the sheriffs office said. He and two other people charged in Brisbons death were arrested on Feb. 11, according to the sheriffs office. One of Shabazzs co-defendants, Sylvia Bacon Scott, is still facing pending charges for murder, grand larceny, malicious injury, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, court records show. The Richland County Sheriffs Department and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division assisted in the investigation, and Shabazz was prosecuted by the 6th Circuit Solicitors Office. William Frick was listed as Shabazzs attorney, according to court records. A passenger aboard a Myanmar National Airlines flight was struck by a bullet fired from the ground. According to Mirror, the plane was flying at 3,500 feet at the time. It was about to land in Loikaw, Myanmar, when a bullet pierced through the fuselage, injuring the man. What we know: The passenger, who was traveling by himself, can be seen in photos that surfaced online, slumping over in his seat and holding a tissue to his neck and cheek. More bloody tissues can be seen next to him. Upon landing, he was rushed to the hospital. All flights to the city have been canceled until further notice and the government has increased security around the airport. Rebel activity: The Myanmar government says rebel forces, namely the Karenni National Progressive Party and its allies in the Peoples Defense Force, are to blame for the shooting. However, these groups have denied having any involvement in the incident. I want to say that this kind of attack on the passenger plane is a war crime, said Major General Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for Myanmars ruling military council. People and organizations who want peace need to condemn this issue all around. A statement from Karenni National Progressive Party: Khu Daniel, who is a leader of the Karenni National Progressive Party, says his party has not instructed its fighters to shoot at passenger planes or civilians. The military always blames other organizations for the shootings, said Daniel. Our armed wing didnt shoot the plane this morning. A spokesperson for another rebel group known as Karenni Nationalities Defense Force said the allegations are defamatory propaganda against the revolutionary forces by the Military Council. Precautions on the runway: He also said that the runway and airfield are surrounded by infantry battalions and high-security areas, which would make it making it very hard to carry out that type of attack. Related: Chaos Erupts In Cancun Airport Amidst Reports Of Gunshots A contract dispute between a regional healthcare provider and an insurance company could leave many patients scrambling to find new options. CaroMont Health and UnitedHealthcare are having trouble coming to terms on a new contract, and thatll have big impact if theres no deal in the next few months. Heres what would happen: First, patients who get United specifically through their employer and use any of the CaroMont facilities listed below, youll have to pay out-of-network prices for everything you have done there, or youll have to switch doctors. Affected CaroMont Facilities: Regional Medical Center Regional Medical Center-Mount Holly Cancer Center Lincoln Cancer Center Outpatient Surgery A few others The contract dispute wont impact you if you have a different United plan, are a Medicare Advantage member, or use any of CaroMonts other facilities. But the dispute is leaving patients like Leanne Mason caught in the middle. I was upset, Mason told Action 9s Jason Stoogenke. Its a hassle. RELATED: UnitedHealthcare patients caught in middle of anesthesiology fight Nothing has changed yet. The entire CaroMont system is still in-network and will be until at least April 1, 2023. Action 9 reached out to CaroMont and UnitedHealthcare for answers about the dispute. Both companies sent statements to Stoogenke. For more than two years, CaroMont Health has tried in earnest to establish a long-term agreement with UnitedHealthcare. Unfortunately, UnitedHealthcare is unyielding in their position that CaroMont Health accept reimbursement rates that are lower than those accepted by other insurers and received by other hospitals and health systems in the region. At this time, it appears UnitedHealthcare will not compromise. This means beginning on April 1, 2023, care received at CaroMont Health facilities will be considered out-of-network for UnitedHealthcare plans, said a statement from CaroMont. While we are deeply disappointed by this outcome, we remain committed to finding solutions that allow all patients who wish to visit a CaroMont Health facility to receive exceptional care at in-network rates. If patients are concerned about this situation, they may contact their Human Resources department or Benefits Administrator and ask them to encourage UnitedHealthcare to extend the agreement with CaroMont Health or consider choosing another health benefit plan that includes CaroMont Health in the provider network. Story continues MORE: UnitedHealth closes roughly $8B deal for Change Healthcare United Healthcare sent the following statement: Were disappointed CaroMont is mischaracterizing our negotiation and is creating unnecessary anxiety for the people we mutually serve. We are very early on in our contract discussions and are committed to continued good-faith negotiation over the next six months. Our goal is to renew our contract and avoid disruption. We hope CaroMont shares our commitment to reaching an agreement that is affordable for North Carolina residents and employers. >>If youve been ripped off, overbilled, or misled, let Action 9 investigate. Email us at action9@wsoctv.com. (WATCH BELOW: Action 9s Jason Stoogenke explains how you can protect your money when investing) Planned Parenthood will soon open a mobile abortion clinic in southern Illinois as part of an effort to expand access in Missouri and across other parts of the Midwest where the procedure is almost entirely banned. The mobile clinic will help reduce travel distances, wait times and other logistical barriers impacting patients in neighboring states where abortion is banned, said Yamelsie Rodriguez, president of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri. One hundred days post-Roe we stand in defiance to say: we are not backing down, Rodriguez said in a statement. Abortion bans, defunding Planned Parenthood, and attacks on reproductive freedoms writ large are deeply unpopular. Were standing in the gap created by politicians and ensuring all people can access the health care they deserve, no matter where they live. Illinois has become a haven for people in other states seeking an abortion since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and ended the constitutional right to an abortion in June. Rodriguez said wait times at Planned Parenthoods Fairview Heights clinic in Illinois, just across the state line from St. Louis, have increased from four days to 2 weeks. Missouris trigger law banned abortion the day Roe v. Wade was overturned, and Planned Parenthood ceased all abortion services in the state. The Fairview Heights health center was built for a post-Roe reality, but the surge in patients came much faster than anticipated, she said. According to Rodriguez, the mobile clinic will be set up inside a retrofitted RV and will contain a lab, a waiting area and two exam rooms. The clinic will offer medication abortion up to 11 weeks gestation but will likely be converted into procedural rooms for surgical abortion care by the first quarter of next year. The mobile unit will operate in Illinois only, but the aim is to reduce the miles patients are traveling for care while also relieving pressure on the Fairview Heights facility. Story continues In Illinois, Planned Parenthood has provided medication abortions through telehealth which is banned in Missouri and can mail the pills to patients. The massive increase in demand and the longer distances patients need to travel for an abortion in the 100 days since Roe was overturned have led to more people seeking abortions later in pregnancy, including at gestational ages where medication abortion isnt available. The mobile clinic will be key to redistributing that demand, said Colleen McNicholas, Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouris chief medical officer. One of the first tasks will be to determine the best routes for the mobile clinic. Planned Parenthood is reviewing data to determine where patients are coming from, and the goal is to have the clinic operational by November. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. STOCKTON, Calif. (AP) A serial killer may have ambushed five men in central California separately in recent months, shooting them to death alone in the dark, and police are baffled as to why the victims were targeted. None of the men were robbed or beaten before their killings which all took place within a radius of a few square miles and none appear to have known each other, Stockton Police Officer Joseph Silva said Monday. The shootings also do not seem to be related to gangs or drugs. The city of Stockton, Stockton Crime Stoppers and a local construction company owner offered a total of $95,000 for information leading to an arrest in the slayings, which date back to July 8. Police released a grainy still image of a person of interest," dressed all in black and wearing a black cap, who appeared in videos from several of the crime scenes. The San Joaquin Countys Office of the Medical Examiner identified the victims on Monday as Paul Yaw, 35, who was killed on July 8; Salvador Debudey Jr., 43, who died on Aug. 11; Jonathan Hernandez Rodriguez, 21, who died on Aug. 30; Juan Cruz, 52, who was killed on Sept. 21 and Lawrence Lopez Sr., 54. Lopez was shot shortly before 2 a.m. last Tuesday in a residential area just north of downtown. He was just a person who was out here at the wrong place, at the wrong time, at the wrong circumstance, his brother, Jerry Lopez, told KXTV-TV. Its hard to process that this has happened. None of the shootings were captured by video cameras and no firearms have been recovered. We dont have any video of anybody holding any gun or actually committing a crime, Silva said in a phone interview Monday. Still, the available footage, as well as ballistics evidence, link the five killings, he said. All five men were shot by a handgun, though it's not yet clear if it was the same gun was used in each crime. It definitely meets the definition of a serial killer, Silva said. What makes this different is the shooter is just looking for an opportunity and unfortunately our victims were alone in a dark area. Story continues There may even be multiple people involved in the violence. To be honest, we just dont know, he said. This person or people who are out doing this, they are definitely very bold and brazen. Police said four of the victims were walking alone and a fifth was in a parked car when they were killed in the evening or early morning in the city of 320,000 residents, located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of the state capital, Sacramento. West Lafayette Police Department WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. A woman jogging Monday morning on the trails of Happy Hollow Park stopped in her tracks when she came across a man blocking her path and yelling at her, according to West Lafayette police. The woman turned around and run the opposite direction, according to West Lafayette police, and the man chased her. She called 911 as she ran away from the man, and West Lafayette police arrived a short time later. They found the suspect and arrested him, according to police. Police identified the man as Laqauin West, 26, of Ford Heights, Illinois. They arrested him on suspicion of intimidation and resisting law enforcement. The woman, while unnerved by the encounter, was not physically harmed, police said. Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2. This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Police arrest man accused of chasing jogger in West Lafayette park Update: Police identified the victim as 31-year-old Kameela Brown. A woman was found dead following a shooting Sunday night in Kansas City. Officers were called at 11:15 p.m. to the 4400 block of Monroe Avenue where they found a woman suffering from apparent gunshot wounds, Officer Donna Drake, a spokeswoman with the Kansas City Police Department, said in a news release. Emergency medical crews pronounced the woman dead at the scene, Drake said. Detectives and crime scene personnel responded to process the scene for evidence and speak to witnesses. This was the 128th homicide this year in Kansas City, according to data tracked by The Star, which includes fatal police shootings. Police ask anyone with information to call homicide detectives at 816-234-5043 or the anonymous TIPS Hotline at 816-474-8477. Up to a $25,000 reward is available for information leading to an arrest in this case. A homicide investigation is underway after police said they responded to a shooting on Sunday near 50 Mt. Zion Rd. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Atlanta police told Channel 2 Action News the shooting happened around 5:30 p.m. When police got to the scene they found a man with multiple gunshot wounds dead. TRENDING STORIES: The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Atlanta Police Department. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: A 53-year-old man fired shots into a Bloomfield Twp. delicatessen where he worked, wounding one woman, and later killed himself after fleeing the scene, police said. According to Bloomfield Township police, the suspect fired multiple shots at Steve's Deli. The man, who was a current employee at the business, fled the scene in a vehicle after the shooting, police said. Southfield police located the suspect's vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but the man took his own life before officers could make contact, Bloomfield Township police said. More:Detroit police fatally shoot man who was wielding knife, in mental health crisis More:U.P. backyard fight club becomes a small town's biggest draw One employee at the business, a 52-year-old female, suffered from a non-life threatening gunshot wound, according to police. Police were still on both scenes Sunday afternoon and investigating the incident. Names of the man and the woman were not released. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Employee opens fire in Steve's Deli in Bloomfield Twp., injuring woman Athens-Clarke police said Monday they have no motive or suspects in the slaying of a man found dead in his car Sunday afternoon in east Athens. Police said Gerald Dexter Jones, 52, of Fowler Drive, was found about 3:30 p.m. deceased in the drivers seat of his white 2014 Dodge Challenger that was parked on the 100 block of Fairview Street near North Peter Street. Jones died of a single gunshot, police Lt. Shaun Barnett said. Previously: Mysterious death of Athens woman in mountains deepens More: Athens woman gets prison for hit and run death of homeless man Residents along the street heard a single gunshot and thats what prompted the 911 call, Barnett said. Those residents did not see anyone involved in the shooting and so far police have not located any witnesses who may have seen the assailant leaving the area, according to Barnett. Police also have not developed a motive for Jones' slaying. The Challenger was towed to the police station for a forensics examination, according to Barnett. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. David Harrison at 762-400-7361 or David.harrison@accgov.co This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Athens-Clarke police: No motive or suspects in killing of Gerald Jones CINCINNATI An Indiana mother accused of having abandoned her 5-year-old autistic son on a dead-end street in Ohio earlier this year has been sentenced to six months in a lockdown facility where she will receive mental health and substance abuse treatment. Heather Adkins, 33, of Shelbyville pleaded guilty last month in Hamilton County Court to child endangerment. A kidnapping charge was dropped as part of a plea agreement. Advertisement Prosecutors said Adkins drove from Indiana to Tennessee in February to drop off two of her three children with a friend but on the way back abandoned her son on a dead-end street in Colerain Township near Cincinnati, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) from her home. Officials said the boy, who is nonverbal, was spotted by passing motorists as he tried to wave down cars in the rain. Adkins was arrested at a gas station in Georgetown, Ky., on an unrelated warrant. In court, Adkins acknowledged the facts of the case but denied that she intended to harm her son, WCPO-TV reported. Advertisement The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that after her release from River City Correctional Center, Adkins will be on probation for three years. Common Pleas Judge Jennifer Branch also ordered her last week to stay away from her son. Puerto Rican Governor, Pedro Pierluisi, a Democrat, called on President Biden to treat Puerto Ricans like any other American citizens. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated U.S. territory. Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, there are some unique differences in government protocols with Puerto Rico versus a state. However, Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens, pay federal taxes with the exception of federal income taxes, and have a representative in Congress and electoral delegates, although they cant vote in U.S. elections. Puerto Ricans vote for their own governor and the territory is supposed to be supported by the United States federal government, especially in times of great distress, like a hurricane. PIERLUISI: My asks to you, Mr. President, are straightforward. We want to be treated in the same way as our fellow Americans in the states in times of need. All American citizens, regardless of where they live in the United States, should receive the same support from the federal government. We're confident that the President will heed our call for equal treatment because that is consistent with his priorities and his policies. President Biden announced a commitment of over $60M to help bolster Puerto Ricos defenses against future storms. BIDEN: We have to ensure that when the next hurricane strikes Puerto Rico is ready. Today I'm announcing more than $60 million dollars in funding to help coastal areas in Puerto Rico become better prepared for the storm. For example, we can create a flood warning system to help shore up levees and flood walls. In addition, there's nearly $700 million in infrastructure investments in Puerto Rico that have already been announced since I signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law last November. For example, we've awarded $90 million dollars to upgrade PR2 Highway, and we've announced $163 million dollars to begin construction on the canal to restore Cano, help me with the pronunciation, Martin Pena, that entire ecosystem. And we're going to clean up polluted waters and restore mangrove habitats and bring back marine life. And you're going to see investments like these increasing significantly in the months ahead. We're investing in Puerto Rico's roads, bridges, public transit, ports, airports, water safety, and high-speed internet. President Biden is visiting Puerto Rico today to assess the damage from Hurricane Fiona. He is expected to announce $60 million in funding for Puerto Rico from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bolster the infrastructure of Puerto Rico against natural disasters. Hurricane Fiona was luckily not as detrimental as the hurricane from five years ago, Hurricane Maria. Hurricane Maria killed nearly 3,000 people in Puerto Rico and absolutely demolished the countrys infrastructure and power grid. Puerto Rico and Florida will continue to take hits from hurricanes and other natural disasters, so it is imperative that President Biden improves their infrastructures to withstand the unfortunate realities of climate change. When Hurricane Maria had hit Puerto Rico, President Trump responded by throwing rolls of paper towels to Puerto Ricans which is a vast difference from President Bidens approach to helping Puerto Ricans. BIDEN: And to Puerto Rico because they haven't been taking very good care of. Theyve been trying like hell to catch up from the last hurricane. I want to see the state of affairs today and make sure we push everything we can. Ukrainian fighters push deeper into Russian-controlled areas in the east, threatening to cut off Russian forces from supply lines and potentially deal another costly defeat to President Vladimir Putin. This comes just after Vladimir Putin announced Russia's illegal annexation of four partially occupied Ukrainian regions: Donetsk and Luhansk in the east, and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south. Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, Admiral James Stavridis, and President of the Council on Foreign Relations, Richard Haass, join the conversation. Prince William, Prince of Wales, and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, walk behind the coffin during the procession for the lying-in-state of Queen Elizabeth II. Karwai Tang/WireImage Valentine Low's new book about the royal family, "Courtiers," is out in the UK on Thursday. In an excerpt published in the Daily Mail, Low writes about Prince Harry and Prince William's rift. Harry declined a crisis meeting with William in 2019, Low reports. The Duke of Sussex declined to meet with the Prince of Wales after opening up about their rift in a TV documentary, according to a new royal book. According to an excerpt from Valentine Low's "Courtiers," published in the Daily Mail on Sunday, Prince William asked for a crisis meeting with his brother after Prince Harry said they were "on different paths" in the ITV documentary, "Harry and Meghan: An African Journey," in November 2019. "Part of this role and part of this job, this family, being under the pressure that it's under, inevitably stuff happens," Harry said in the documentary. "But look, we're brothers, we'll always be brothers," he added. "We're certainly on different paths at the moment but I'll always be there for him and as I know he'll always be there for me. Valentine Low is a royal correspondent who has covered the royal family for The Times of London since 2008, according to his profile on The Times' website. In his role, he has traveled overseas with the Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and other members of the royal family. In Low's book, which is released in the UK on Thursday, he said that William used WhatsApp to message Harry and ask for a meeting the day after the documentary aired. Watch: A look back at Queen Elizabeth II's 70-year reign "This put Harry and Meghan into a spin. What should they do?" Low wrote, adding that Harry was initially in favor of a meeting before discovering that William would have to inform his private secretary to clear his schedule. "He was so concerned that William's team would leak the visit to the Press that he would rather not see his brother than risk it getting into the papers. To everyone who knew what was going on, this was heartbreaking," Low wrote. Story continues "It highlighted the dysfunction at the heart of so many royal relationships, and how members of the Royal Family so rarely pick up the phone to speak to each other directly. Instead, they communicate via the apparatus around them. And the result is mistrust and division," he added. Low also reports that William and Kate Middleton's team felt that Harry and Meghan were trying to overshadow their tour of Pakistan, which coincided with their documentary release. "William and Kate's team was not happy, it seems, and saw it as a deliberate attempt to knock the couple out of the headlines. Relations between the two households became quite tense," Low wrote. Representatives for The Duke of Sussex and Prince of Wales did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Insider Crypto donations were received in the form of bitcoin, ethereum and tether. (Photo illustration by Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Pro-Russian military groups raised nearly $400,000 in crypto to fund Moscow's war with Ukraine. The groups promoted donations via Telegram and used funds to purchase equipment like drones. Research by TRM Labs suggests crypto funding to support Russia's war will persist amid sanctions. Pro-Russian groups raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency to fund Moscow's war with Ukraine and evade US sanctions, according to research conducted by blockchain intelligence company TRM Labs. The Monday report, viewed by Insider and first reported by CNBC, revealed groups used the encrypted messaging app Telegram to solicit donations in the form of tokens like bitcoin, ethereum, litecoin and tether, then purchased supplies for Russian-linked militias and supported combat training near the Ukraine border. As of September 22, these groups raised $400,000 in cryptocurrencies since the start of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, according to TRM Labs. For example, "Task Force Rusich" a neo-Nazi Russian paramilitary group sanctioned by the US received over $144,000 in cryptocurrency since the start of the war and used that money to purchase items like radios and thermal imaging equipment. Meanwhile, other groups have supplied the Russian army with body armour and drones, per TRM Labs. Since Russia's war with Ukraine, cryptocurrencies emerged as a way for Russian individuals and businesses to escape Western sanctions. In March, the volume of rubles being exchanged for crypto notched its highest point since May 2021. In May, Russia's central bank said it's open to using cryptocurrency for international payments as a way to dodge Western sanctions, after previously calling for a ban on it. That's after the EU, the US, and other allies cut off Russia's access to half its more than $600 billion of foreign currency reserves and blocked Russian banks from Swift, the international financial messaging system. According to TRM Labs, fundraising via cryptocurrencies to finance Russia's war is likely to persist. "Sanctions and observed service disruptions to the Russian electronic banking infrastructure will likely lead to further adoption of cryptocurrency amongst Telegram channels fundraising for the invasion of Ukraine," TRM Labs said in its report. Read the original article on Business Insider Federal prosecutors on Monday laid out their sprawling case against Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes and four other members of the far-right militia as it brings rarely used seditious conspiracy charges in one of its most high-profile trials against those who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Rhodes is on trial alongside Oath Keepers Kelly Meggs, Kenneth Harrelson, Jessica Watkins and Thomas Caldwell, each accused of conspiring to use force to overthrow the government a crime that carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. They concocted a plan for an armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Nestler told jurors at the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Nestler said the group broke a 200-year tradition and banded together to do whatever was necessary, up to and including the use of force to prevent the peaceful transition of power from former President Trumps administration to President Bidens. Mondays opening argument set the scene for a case expected to stretch for more than a month that will detail the two months of planning leading up to Jan. 6 and the days after, including direction from Rhodes to his followers to delete any incriminating evidence of their time in the Capitol. The governments presentation showed Oath Keepers members undergoing training for the Capitol that day, displaying messages from Watkins that she needed her crew to be fighting fit. They also showed video of the group using a stack formation to enter the Capitol, playing footage and displaying messages of them bragging about making it into the building and tangoing with police. Rhodes never entered the Capitol that day, instead directing Oath Keepers like a general overlooking the battlefield. The seditious conspiracy statute under which the government is bringing charges was crafted following the Civil War. It has since been used infrequently and often unsuccessfully. The five defendants are also facing charges for conspiring to obstruct Congress and destruction of government property, among other charges. Story continues Attorneys for Rhodes have argued that Oath Keepers were standing ready if Trump invoked the Insurrection Act, which allows the president to call upon the military and National Guard to quell a rebellion. Phillip Linder, an attorney for Rhodes, sought to portray Rhodes as taking lawful, if unpopular, actions that day. Linder asked jurors to hold yourself to the burden of proof. You may not like some of the things you hear and that our clients did but the evidence we show our clients did nothing illegal. Even if it looks inflammatory, they did nothing illegal, he said. Attorneys for the group each portrayed their clients as being in town to attend rallies and serve as security for some speakers. The government anticipated that argument, with Nestler saying it was a little suspect given that Oath Keepers are not licensed, trained or paid for their work as security guards. Even being bad security guards isnt itself illegal, Nestler said, but planning to overthrow the government is. Attorneys for both the government and the defendants spent ample time discussing the groups Quick Reaction Force staged at a Virginia hotel, with DOJ showing members of the group bringing in suitcase after suitcase of weapons and supplies. The QRF was chosen for its proximity to D.C., the government said, allowing Oath Keepers to quickly get more weapons to the Capitol if needed, including even by river if necessary. Linder said Rhodes did not have violent intent that day and left his weapons behind. He said the cache of weapons was meant to be defensive in case Trump called on the group to act. His messages to supporters complaining that Vice President Mike Pence would not back Trump, his open letters to the then president, were nothing more than free speech and bravado, Linder said. David Fischer, an attorney for Caldwell, said the group has Quick Reaction Forces for many of their events and the real reason they had QRF in Virginia was because its legal to have weapons in Virginia. They didnt bring weapons into DC because its illegal to have them in D.C., he said. But the government dismissed that. Each of them drove rather than flew to the D.C. area so they could bring their weapons of war with them, Nestler said. The governments opening arguments reviewed a number of the communications between members of the group, repeatedly noting the we language to solidify the coordination necessary for the seditious conspiracy charge, which requires two or more people. Rhodes had studied the Serbian civil war, crafting a list of takeaways for the group: getting people to swarm the streets, gathering millions at the Capitol, encouraging military and police to align with the people in the streets and storming parliament. As Jan. 6 neared, he noted that it was important to talk about their plans in the context of waiting on Trump to call upon them, something he said would give them legal cover. In December, Meggs sent a Facebook message to those in Florida, saying its easy to chat here. The question is who is willing to die. The time for talk is over. The real plan, Nestler said, was to fight against the government no matter what. But in the days after the attack Rhodes instructed Oath Keepers members to delete any evidence from their phones or social media platforms that could incriminate them. You all need to delete any of your comments regarding who did what, Rhodes wrote on Jan. 8. Do not chat about Oath Keepers members doing anything at the capital. Go dark on that. Do not discuss.Let me put it in infantry speak: shut the fk up. The trial began Monday with Judge Amit Mehta dismissing complaints from some of the defendants attorneys about the jurors, including a motion seeking a change of venue for the trial. None-zero percent, said they had such strong views they could not be fair and impartial, Mehta said. My sense is this is a very diligent group of citizens who will abide by the courts instructions. Updated at 5:19 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Albert Pujols slammed his 702nd career home run and drove in three runs in the Cardinals 7-5 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday. Pujols also had a two-run double in the first. He moved into a tie with Babe Ruth for second on the all-time RBI list with 2,214. Hank Aaron leads the way with 2,297. Ben Gamel and Bryan Reynolds homered for Pittsburgh, which has won four of six. The Cardinals won 26 of their final 34 home games. It was the final home regular-season game for Pujols and catcher Yadier Molina, who are both retiring after the season. Molina and pitcher Adam Wainwright started their 328th game together. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: PA Supreme Court Chief Justice and Pittsburgh native Max Baer dies at age 74 To protect and serve: Ross Township police officers save skunk from pitching net VIDEO: Community reacts after teacher assaulted at Pittsburgh school VIDEO: Police arrest juvenile in Friday shooting of 13-year-old boy in Swissvale DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Russian dictator Vladimir Putin During a panel discussion for the ConservativeHome right-wing UK political blog, he said that Putin continues to resort to brutality and is still trying to conquer Ukraine. What I mean is, if tomorrow we will build him a golden bridge, he will deliberately destroy it, said Wallace. The UK defense minister said that the world cannot let Putin win, otherwise it would result in a global disaster. If the bandit remains unstopped, it would mean that all international rules, conventions and agreements can be ignored and all nuclear threats can go without punishment, Wallace said. We cannot let him win, said the UK official. Read also: Zelenskyy Offices adviser on duration of war, prospects of nuclear attack, and future of Russia As Wallace put it, the Russian dictator is "an ethnic nationalist who lives in a fantasy about the reunion of the so-called ancient race." He is not trying to improve the living conditions of his citizens, but instead wants to increase the strength of Russia at the expense of weakening opponents, particularly by dispersing discord in the West through the support of radical right and left forces, the minister added. Wallace said the UK foreign ministry had advised him against visiting Ukraine on its Independence Day "because it might provoke Putin." He said that despite this, the West remains united in its support for Ukraine. Earlier, on Sept. 29, Wallace made a secret visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian colleague Oleksiy Reznikov. Neither the Ukrainian, nor the British side announced his visit until after it was over. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Liz Truss has said Londons aid to Ukraine in 2023 will be worth about GBP 2.3 billion. During her talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sept. 28, Truss said that "Ukraine can count on the support of Great Britain until President Putin is defeated." Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Getty Cracks are emerging among Vladimir Putins cronies over the Russian presidents military leadership and whether to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. As Ukrainian forces pummeled the city of Lyman over the weekend, Ramzan Kadyrov, a longtime Putin ally and leader of Chechnya, lashed out at Putins approach there, criticizing Russian troops withdrawal and the Russian commander of the Central Military District, Alexander Lapin. Its not a shame that Lapin is mediocre, but the fact that he is covered at the top by the leaders in the General Staff, he said on Saturday, taking a dig at the entire operation. There is no place for nepotism in the army, especially in difficult times. Another key Putin ally, Evgeniy Prigozhin, Putins so-called chef who helped orchestrate Russian interference in the 2016 presidential elections in the United States and who heads up the mercenary group Wagner, seems to have also turned on Putins strategy in Ukraine. Send all these pieces of garbage barefoot with machine guns straight to the front, Prigozhin said, referring to Putins army bosses. Top Putin Crony Admits They Want to Grieve and to Panic Over Ukraine The public criticism from key Putin supporters comes just as Russia is working to project unity and power on the world stage. After a series of defeats on the battlefield in Ukraine, Putin initiated a partial mobilization to bolster the war effort and held sham referenda in an attempt to illegally annex territories in Ukraine. The internal divisions are mounting. Kadyrov also said that Russia should use a low-yield nuclear weapon in Ukraine. But the Kremlin is now jabbing back at him, suggesting that Kadyrov got too emotional and that cooler heads should prevail. The heads of Russias regions have the authority to express their point of view and to make assessments, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Monday. But even in the most difficult moments emotions should probably be excluded from any comments. Story continues The Kremlin's effort to distance itself from Kadyrovs hawkish stance comes just days after Russias efforts to illegally annex several regions in Ukraine. The move has set off alarm bells over whether the Kremlin will consider Ukrainian counter-offensives to take back the regions as attacks on Russian territory. Russias nuclear doctrine lays out that Russias use of nuclear weapons should be used in self-defense. But Russian officials have reiterated in recent weeks that Russia reserves the right to use nuclear weapons if there is an existential threat to the country or if there is an attack against Russia, even if the attack uses conventional weapons alone. And Russia has made it clear that it would defend the newly annexed regions in Ukrainethe Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regionswith all means at its disposal. Putin himself has hinted at Russias potential interest in using nuclear weapons in Ukraine. The cleavage between Kadyrov, Prigozhin, and the Kremlin appears to be emblematic of larger problems in Moscows approach to Ukraine in the eighth month of the war. Although Russia hosted its sham referenda last week in Ukraine, the Kremlin acknowledged Monday that Russia is not necessarily confident in what territories it has specifically claimed as Russian, according to Peskov. Russia doesnt control the territories it annexed, and Peskov suggested the Kremlin had to ask around about which borders it will claim as its own, an indication that the illegal annexation process may not be going as smoothly as Moscow expected. We are going to continue to consult the populations of these regions, Peskov said. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Sounds of Chinese instruments accompanied a dragon dance team as they mimicked the postures and movements of the dragon at a Chinese Festival in the U.S. state of Colorado on Saturday afternoon. Frank Leitz, the lead dancer, lifted, dipped, thrust, and swept the dragon's head, as the dragon regaled the crowd at the Centennial Center Park near downtown Denver, to bestow good luck and prosperity. The performance drew the attention of hundreds of visitors to the Chinese Festival of Colorado, in celebration of the Chinese National Day and the Chinese traditional Moon Festival. Guests from local American and Chinese communities enjoyed an enchanting guzheng musical piece and a Chinese classical dance performance. Students from Chinese language schools in Denver performed Chinese songs. Guests were also invited to taste a variety of Chinese foods and snacks. "We hope to celebrate the Chinese festival with the local community, and have more people experience the Chinese culture. Cultural exchanges serve as a bridge in enhancing our mutual understanding and China-U.S. relations," Feng Mimi, honorary president of the Chinese American Association for Rocky Mountain Region, the organizer of the festival, told Xinhua. Alice Britton, one of the hostesses and dancers at the festival, speaks fluent Chinese. The 11-year-old started to learn Chinese when she was three. "I love to be immersed in Chinese culture, Chinese food and traditions. I love Chinese dance, which has a beautiful rhythm," she said. Her mother said her whole family love joining Chinese cultural events and would love to introduce traditional and modern Chinese culture to more Americans. Leitz, the lead dragon dancer, said he has a true passion for Chinese history, adding that the Chinese Festival is a very good opportunity to engage with the community and embrace different cultures. Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty Vitaly Fedchenko is a widely recognized authority on fissionable things that go boom in the night and a mighty important fellow in the business of thwarting the apocalypse. Indeed, the throw-weight of this nuclear engineers expertise on Russian President Vladimir Putins arsenal of Armageddon is perhaps best illustrated by the blast radius of his job title at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute: Senior Researcher for Strategic Forces Technology, Nuclear Energy, Nuclear Reactors, Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Nuclear Materials and Fuel, Uranium and Plutonium, Nuclear Warheads, Nuclear Forensics and Verification in the Weapons of Mass Destruction Program. A nuclear blast is a nuclear blast, is how Fedchenko soberly frames the validity of Putins big bluff now vexing the world: Would Russias beleaguered bully-in-chief follow through on his threats to launch either a targeted tactical nuclear assault or a crushing strategic nuclear strike on Ukraine and other Western nations? There is no clear definition or agreement on what the difference is between tactical and strategic, Fedchenko says. Regardless of the lethal arithmetic of kilotonnage, the answer is anyway moot, the body count overwhelmingly ghoulish. In broad brushstrokes, Fedchenko and other experts interviewed by The Daily Beast on mutually assured destruction calculate Putin has three trajectories for his some 6,000 nuclear devices. A high-altitude electromagnetic pulse blast over Ukraine that deep-fries electronic systems there and in Europe; a low-altitude detonation designed to kill tens of thousands of Ukrainians but not immediately affect those in neighboring countries; or the so-called ground burst, with the prevailing winds carrying the fallout helter-skelter around the globe. And Fedchenko adds thats not taking into account any plans Putin has to use conventional weapons to annihilate Ukraines 16 nuclear power reactors, transforming the country into a netherworld on Earth. Story continues During the Cold War, nuclear brinkmanship between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, such as the 35-day Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, resembled a calculated chess match. The nuclear confrontation on display in Ukraine is more like the television game show Truth or Consequences, in which animosity has replaced probity, with both contestants intimating horrific repercussions. NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg warned Putin of the severest consequences if Russia used nuclear weapons. But the former Russian President Dimitry Medvedev, the current deputy chairman of Russias Security Council, blustered: Russian weapons, including strategic nuclear weapons, could be used. Another Putin pawn, Russias regional Chechen chieftain Ramzan Kadyrov, over the weekend encouraged his boss to trigger the nukes. More drastic measures should be taken, right up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and the use of low-yield nuclear weapons, Kadyrov said. If Russia crosses this line, fired back U.S National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, there will be catastrophic consequences. There has not been any question about how dangerous a nuke can be since the U.S. in 1945 dropped the Little Boy on Hiroshima, killing 66,000 and injuring a further 69,000 people. Shortly thereafter, Americas nuclear bombmakers stopped purposely baptizing their explosive devices, such as Fat Man and Thin Man, after characters in Dashiell Hammett detective novels. Shelving the cinematics of The Maltese Falcon and the capers of Nick and Nora Charles, the Pentagon started to identify their weapons with names like Hotpoint and Lulu. Yet a romp down memory lane in Russias thermonuclear showroomwhich the Soviet Union domestically sold as Nuclear Explosions for the National Economyis an equally shivering journey. It usually inspires recollections of the 1949 plutonium classic Joe-1; the imperially branded 1961 Tsar Bomba; and the memorable Chagan, which in 1965 carved a 1,338-foot-wide radioactive shrine 328 feet deep into Kazakhstan. The difference between a nuclear weapon then and now is the difference between a Ford and a Lamborghini, Fedchenko explains. The yield, the power of the explosion, is the same. The variance is in terms of size, the ability to withstand external shock, and the ease of delivery. The joker in Putins nuclear armory is how many of his vintage or contemporary weapon systems actually work. Putin Suffers Most Humiliating Ukraine Defeat Yet The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty in 1996 put a stop to Russia and the U.S. assessing capabilities, Fedchenko says. There are many new radical designs, but without multiple live tests you dont know if any nuclear weapon will actually perform the way you intend. Nuclear arsenals are based on systems developed in the late 1980s or earlier. The 139-page United Nations treaty is a clunker in Kyiv. Its useless, says Olena Pavlenko, a 41-year-old energy policy analyst at the Dixi Group research institute in Kyiv. The UN has done nothing to curtail Russias nuclear threats against Ukraine. Putin for years has tried to intimidate us with the threat of nuclear destruction, and the UNs response is always lets not talk or do anything about it because Putin has nuclear weapons. That is the UN storyline. Nonetheless, Pavlenko says the narrative fallout has prompted Ukrainians to stock up on anti-radiation iodine pills and take other precautions against Putin turning the launch key on a nuclear strike. Just in case, she adds cheerfully. We must take his threats seriously, but we are psychologically not afraid. Pavlenko says theres a lot of laughter and cursing in Ukraine these days. Everyone wants to know whether Putin will use nuclear weapons, Pavlenko says. Well, Ukrainians know Russias psychological trickery better than anyone, she adds with no small hint of patriotic pride. When Putin starts to loudly menace you with something, that means he isnt going to follow through. When the Russians are silent, thats the time to worry. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. U.S. officials are on edge over Russian President Vladimir Putins recent threat to use nuclear weapons, ahead of his illegal and contested move to claim huge swathes of Ukrainian territory. Current and former U.S. officials on Sunday said that although there is nobody in Russia who could stop Putin from deploying nuclear weapons, such a move would guarantee a cataclysmic response from the U.S. and its NATO allies. To be clear, the guy who makes that decision, I mean, its one man. There are no checks on Mr. Putin. Just as he made the irresponsible decision to invade Ukraine, you know, he could make another decision, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told CNNs Fareed Zakaria on Sunday. Austin added he doesnt see anything right now to indicate that Putin has definitively made such a decision. Former national security adviser H.R. McMaster on Sunday said Putin is under extreme pressure after battlefield failures and domestic frustration over a mobilization order that could send hundreds of thousands of reservists into the war. I think the message to [Putin] is: If you use a nuclear weapon, its a suicide weapon. And the response from NATO and the United States doesnt have to be nuclear, McMaster told Face the Nation host Margaret Brennan on CBS. Putins move to annex four regions of Ukraine on Friday came after he warned that Moscow would deploy its massive nuclear arsenal to protect Russian territory or its people. This is not a bluff. And those who try to blackmail us with nuclear weapons should know that the weathervane can turn and point towards them, the Russian president said in a televised address. Officials in Kyiv and Washington have said they take the threat seriously, but will not be deterred from fighting to push out Russia from the regions it now claims. Putins decision to call up as many as 300,000 reservists has been met with protests across the country and thousands of Russian military-age men fleeing the country to avoid the call-up. Story continues But experts have said the poorly trained reinforcements are unlikely to change the course of the war, and fear Putin could be increasingly dangerous if Russia continues to suffer costly and embarrassing losses. The Russian president is responding with the only quiver he has left, which is to, you know, to threaten the use of a nuclear weapon, McMaster said. Former CIA director and retired Army Gen. David Petraeus on Sunday said that, if Russia used the weapons, the U.S. would lead a fierce NATO response. The alliance would take out every Russian conventional force that we can see and identify on the battlefield in Ukraine and also in Crimea and every ship in the Black Sea, Petraeus said on ABCs This Week. [Putin] is trying to cast this in any way that he can in a way to appear threatening, to be threatening, to try to get Europe to crack. He thinks he can out-suffer Europe, if you will, Petraeus added. But I dont think hes going to out-suffer Europe. Europes going to have a tough winter, theres going to be very reduced flow of natural gas, but theyll get through it and I dont think theyll crack on the issue of support for Ukraine. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a recent interview said he has told Russian officials to stop the loose talk about nuclear weapons, but also warned of the lack of checks on Putin from within the Kremlin. Russia has gotten itself into the mess that its in is because there is no one in the system to effectively tell Putin hes doing the wrong thing, the secretary of state told CBS 60 Minutes host Scott Pelley in an interview that aired last week. Its very important that Moscow hear from us and know from us that the consequences would be horrific, Blinken said. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan last week said the United States will respond decisively to any nuclear weapon use and said the U.S. has spelled out in greater detail exactly what that would mean in top-level talks with senior Russian officials. Let me say it plainly: If Russia crosses this line, there will be catastrophic consequences for Russia, the top national security aide said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has long cautioned of Russias nuclear terror and nuclear blackmail amid the conflict and the tensions at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has been occupied by Russian forces since the start of the war more than seven months ago. However, he dismissed Putins nuclear threats as a bluff back in March, changing his tune during an interview last weekend. Look, maybe yesterday it was bluff. Now, it could be a reality, Zelensky said of Putins remarks on CBSs Face the Nation. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ramzan Kadyrov, Chechnya's regional leader, in February. AP Photo/Musa Sadulayev The Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, a Putin ally, called for the use of low-yield nukes. Putin's top spokesman responded by calling for "objective assessments" in discussing nuclear war. The statements came after multiple mentions veiled or otherwise of a nuclear strike. Russian President Vladimir Putin's top spokesman delivered a rebuke to the warlord Ramzan Kadyrov on Monday after Kadyrov called on Russia to use a "low-yield nuclear weapon." "This is a very emotional moment," the spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, told reporters, according to Reuters. "The heads of regions have the right to express their point of view. "But even in difficult moments, emotions should be kept out of any kind of assessment. So we prefer to stick to balanced, objective assessments." Peskov had been asked about remarks made on Saturday by Kadyrov, a loyal but outspoken far-right leader of the Chechnya region. Kadyrov along with other powerful Putin allies said Russia should respond to Ukraine's retaking of its strategic eastern city of Lyman with "more drastic measures," according to Reuters' translation of his statement. Kadyrov added that those measures should go "right up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and the use of low-yield nuclear weapons." Peskov said Russia's basis for using any nuclear weapons was set in the country's law, Reuters reported. Putin and his allies have directly or indirectly kept the specter of nuclear conflict in international discussion in the past couple of weeks, after the Russian leader on September 21 announced the mobilization of 300,000 reservists to the battlefield in Ukraine. In that announcement, he said Russia would use "all the means at our disposal" to protect the country a veiled reference that he said was "not a bluff" and that was soon bolstered by others. Dmitry Medvedev, a former prime minister, took a mocking tone, saying in late September that NATO wouldn't dare intervene if the country launched a nuke at Ukraine. Story continues However, Medvedev also outlined the circumstances in which Russian law permits a nuclear launch; Kadyrov's Saturday statement did not clearly outline such circumstances. Kadyrov strongly criticized fellow military leaders over their retreat from Lyman, which is considered a major humiliation for Putin. World leaders and experts are considering whether Russia is likely to use a nuclear weapon or whether it's a bluff or a tactic to get the West to back down from its support for Ukraine. But they agree the threat should be treated seriously, with both NATO and the US warning Russia that it would face severe consequences if it conducted any nuclear strikes. Read the original article on Business Insider Police investigators in forensic suits inspect the area around the vehicle in which journalist Fredid Roman was shot dead, in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, on August 22, 2022. Police investigators in forensic suits inspect the area around the vehicle in which journalist Fredid Roman was shot dead, in front of the newspaper La Realidad in Chilpancingo, state of Guerrero, Mexico, on August 22, 2022. Credit - Jesus GuerreroAFP/Getty Images Mexico has hit a record for most journalists killed in a yearat least 13 in 2022and were only in October. If you ask why, most people say the narcos. If you ask Mexican President Andres Manual Lopez Obrador, he says there is no persecution of journalists by officials and no impunity, and anyone who says otherwise only wants to smear his administration. Neither is entirely correct. I worked as a journalist in Mexico for nine years. The spike started in 2006 with seven killings. In 2010, when I became Associated Press bureau chief for Mexico and Central America, there were 10. Since then, the numbers have grown beyond comprehension, unseen outside of war zones (Ukraine has had 15 journalist killings so far this year), and shocking for a democracy where freedom of expression is guaranteed in the Constitution. Though the targets tend to be local journalists far from the capital, and not foreign correspondents, the killings dominated our coverage and forced us to create new security protocols for covering the country. The safety of our teams was my responsibility. By the time I left Mexico, I couldnt leave behind the paradox: Why was Mexico, a democracy, the most dangerous country on Earth for journalists? The free press is the enemy of despots and authoritarians, not freely elected governments. I eventually learned the answer, and it made me fear for the free press in my own country. More from TIME When the murders started, the government blamed the cartelsand the journalists. If a reporter was killed, it meant they were corrupt, being paid by narcos, or some other dark interest for good coverage. It was an easy sell. Mexico had a long history of corruption and collusion in its press corp. Politicians repeated the script: Theyre not really journalists. So did my fellow correspondents. It was likely true in some cases. Yet we really had no way of knowing for sure. The crimes were never investigated, nor did they result in arrests. Story continues Eventually, the script showed its holes. Reporters known to be beyond reproach, often honored internationally for their ethics and bravery, started turning up dead: Regina Martinez in 2012, and Miroslava Breach and Javier Valdez in 2017 among the more infamous cases. (Arrests and convictions were made in each case, but not necessarily of the people responsible. The suspected mastermind in the Javier Valdez murder just completed a short prison sentence in the U.S. for cooperating with authorities in another case, and it remains unclear if the U.S. will agree to extradite him to Mexico to be tried for the journalists killing.) Read More: The Number of Journalists Murdered for Their Work Doubled in 2020 The killings escalated with the growing independence of the Mexican press. Since the murders started in 2008, the amount and quality of investigative journalism in Mexico, and the number of reporters working to uncover malfeasance and corruption have taken a huge leap. In many of these assassinations, there are reports of people in uniform showing up just before the journalist disappeared, or mayors, governors and former candidates implicated, or former police arrested and public officials going on the lam. Mexican journalists say they fear the government more than the cartels. That means the perpetrators are sometimes the same people charged with investigating the journalist killings. No wonder the cases are never solved, or maybe worse, the wrong people are incriminated. The first step in controlling the citizenry for your own gain is attacking the press. This is not a coincidence, its a deliberate political strategy. It works. Democracy came to Mexico, but not the institutions necessary to fortify and defend it. So it is easy for elected leaders to manipulate the powers of government for whatever they see fit. In Mexico, when a reporter exposes the link between the state and a criminal enterprise, thats when they step on the deadly third rail. In one particular state, Veracruz, where 20 percent of all journalist murders have occurred since the uptick began in 2006, and where reporter Regina Martinez was found beaten to death in her bathroom, ex-Gov. Javier Duarte succeeded in terrorizing or buying off the press to report only niceties as his administration stole billions in tax dollars and oversaw the disappearance of thousands of citizens. The government itself had become organized crime, partnering with cartels in some cases, but also using the full powers of the state, the treasury, police, judiciary, etc., to create its own criminal enterprises. This system exists in state and local governments across the country. Despite the claims of Mexicos president, there is more public corruption now, not less. And with more independent reporters, more risk. Thats why so many are getting killed. But the most startling part for me in trying to explain how a democracy could be deadly for journalists was the emergence of the same narrative in my own country. The script from Mexicoa newer democracy plagued by weak institutions, violence, and moral bankruptcy on the part of many leadersis now being used in the oldest democracy in the world. The free press in the U.S. has always drawn criticism in its adversarial role but weve never wavered in seeing it as a fundamental democratic institution. Now we seen as the enemy of the people, the corrupt purveyors of fake news. We cant be believed. The same political forces planting distrust in independent voices also seek to undermine our trust in all democratic institutions, our electoral system, the military, the Justice Department. And the first target here in the U.S. was the press. Journalist assassinations remain rare in the U.S., though Las Vegas investigative reporter Jeff German was recently stabbed to death allegedly by a small-time public official who was reportedly running his office like a fiefdom. The accused official was said to have become unhinged when German exposed his crimes to the public, and he lost re-election. But holding power structures to account here has become increasingly dangerous work. Since 2017, there have been more than 1,600 recorded attacks on journalists in the U.S., at least 900 of them physical assaults. Before five years ago, there was no official count. We didnt need one. (Bloomberg) -- South Africa, which has been experiencing energy shortages since 2008, is in the throes of its worst power cuts on record as breakdowns at state-owned utility Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd.s plants reach unprecedented levels. Most Read from Bloomberg The blackouts have caused disruptions countrywide, illustrating the challenges Europe could face as it confronts acute power shortages of its own. Heres how some key services have been affected: Healthcare Most hospitals have backup electricity, but generators dont always kick in immediately and sometimes malfunction, placing patients at risk. Among the most vulnerable are those in intensive care and babies in incubators. State facilities have burnt through their budgets because theyve had to run their generators for longer than anticipated and they intend to ask the National Treasury for additional funding, according to Health Minister Joe Phaahla. Water and Sanitation Municipal and provincial authorities and water utilities have urged consumers to cut back on their water usage, because the lack of electricity means pump stations cant always operate at full capacity. Generators have been fitted at most wastewater and sewage-treatment plants, though the risk of spills is high if they malfunction. Mobile Telecommunications Mobile-phone companies have invested a fortune in batteries and generators for their towers, but the backup electricity they provide isnt always sufficient to last through extended blackouts. Stop-start outages also mean batteries cant fully recharge and shorten their lifespans. As a result, mobile phones signals arent always reliable. Crime Prevention Story continues The blackouts make it easier for criminals to operate undetected, and harder and more dangerous for the police to apprehend them. Insurance companies have reported an increase in claims for car and home break-ins. Private security companies have warned that battery backups on alarm systems can be rendered useless as a result of the unreliable power supply and urged clients to check them regularly. Thieves have also taken advantage of the outages to steal the copper cabling used to transmit electricity, leaving some homes and business without supply for weeks on end. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. Erling Haaland already has three Premier League match balls in his trophy cabinet (PA Wire) Erling Haalands latest hat-trick broke two Premier League records and left him firmly on course for several more with Manchester City. Haaland is the first player ever to score hat-tricks in three successive Premier League home games and shattered the mark for the quickest to reach three trebles in the competition. Here, the PA news agency takes a look at the Norwegians achievements so far and what could be still to come. Treble-treble Haaland has three hat-tricks in his first eight Premier League appearances, a truly staggering improvement on the previous record. Before Haaland, the quickest player to a treble-treble was Michael Owen in 48 games fully six times as many as Citys new superstar. He only just beat me! Owen quipped on the Premier Leagues in-house video channel. Alan Shearers record of five hat-tricks in a Premier League season is already well in Haalands sights, while former City striker Sergio Aguero holds the record of 12 in total. Shearer, Aguero, Andy Cole, Dimitar Berbatov and Jermain Defoe share the record of five goals in a game. Haaland has never achieved that in any competition but the 22-year-olds day could certainly come. Season total Speaking on the same Premier League broadcast as Owen, former City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips tipped Haaland to fly past Mohamed Salahs record of 32 goals in a 38-game Premier League season. At his current rate of 1.75 goals per appearance he is on track to reach that mark inside 19 games the midpoint of the season, against Wolves on January 21, should he remain ever-present until then. Story continues He would then hit the Premier League record of 34, set in 42-game seasons by Shearer and Cole, in the following game against Tottenham. That rate is surely unsustainable even for Haaland and City but the record looks likely at some point barring a long-term injury and Owen is already looking even further ahead to Shearers all-time tally of 260 Premier League goals. Hes hundreds away from it but its so realistic because of the rate that hes scoring, the Alan Shearer record has got to be an attainable target already, the former Liverpool frontman suggested. It is not just the Premier League where Haaland could break records, and 38 this season would see him match a 94-year-old record for City in all competitions, set by Tommy Johnson in 1928-29. And with three goals in his first two Champions League appearances for the club and back-to-back group games against Copenhagen to come if selected he is in the early stages of threatening a run at Cristiano Ronaldos record of 17 in a season. Scoring run Sunday saw Haaland become only the second player, after Lionel Messi, to score in eight straight appearances for manager Pep Guardiola. He has 15 goals along the way hat-tricks against Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and United, two against Sevilla and one each against Newcastle, Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund and Wolves. Messi scored 18 in eight Barcelona games in 2012 and had another run of nine games, the longest under Guardiola, in 2010. He scored 15 in that sequence, so Haaland would exceed that mark with a goal next time out. Aguero, in 2019, and Riyad Mahrez last season had seven-game scoring runs for City under Guardiola. Haaland is also already more than halfway to Leicester striker Jamie Vardys record 11-game Premier League scoring run in 2015, scoring in six league games in a row. Nine Wichita-area restaurants and other businesses were deemed out of compliance during Kansas Department of Agriculture food and lodging safety inspections conducted Sept. 18-24. Among problems inspectors found: a roach under a milkshake machine, flies, old corn fritter mix and tuna salad, employees who didnt wash their hands before handling food, chemicals that werent stored properly, refrigerated items that werent cold enough, dirty equipment and sinks that didnt work. Information about the Sedgwick County businesses and their violations, compiled Sept. 28, appears below with a summary of the problems inspectors noted on their reports. More details are posted in The Eagles searchable database of non-compliant restaurant and hotel inspections at www.kansas.com/databases. Business owners who want to clarify or comment on out-of-compliance inspection results can contact Eagle reporter Amy Renee Leiker at 316-268-6644 or aleiker@wichitaeagle.com. Comments will be added to online stories. Businesses are listed alphabetically at the end of this article. About 60 businesses surveyed during Sept. 18-24 passed their inspections with few or no violations. You can see those at www.foodsafety.kda.ks.gov/FoodSafety/Web/Inspection/PublicInspectionSearch.aspx. Failing an inspection doesnt necessarily mean a business has to close; thats rare. Most violations are minor and are immediately corrected during an inspection. Businesses fall out of compliance with state rules when they have too many violations or certain types of problems that can increase the risk of a customer contracting a food-borne illness and also when a problem cant be fixed right away, such as pest and plumbing issues. When a business fails, its usually inspected again within 10 days. To complain about conditions anywhere that serves or sells food to the public, email kda.fsl@ks.gov or call 785-564-6767. Click here to load this Caspio Cloud Database Cloud Database by Caspio Story continues Recent out-of-compliance inspections The Angry Elephant, 111 E. 47th St. South in Wichita Ten violations during a Sept. 20 follow-up inspection. Cited over carton of whipping cream that wasnt labeled with opening date, crema sauce stored at room temperature, whipped topping had wrong date label on it, old corn fritter mix, menus did not have a disclosure about risks of consuming under-cooked foods, no test strips for sanitizer, dirty plastic tubs, no sanitizer in dishwasher, noodles in hand-washing sink drain, chemical cleaners stored on top of cooking equipment and above food preparation areas. Next inspection: Nov. 21. Braums Ice Cream and Dairy Store, 444 E. Pawnee in Wichita Six violations during a Sept. 19 inspection prompted by a complaint. Cited over employees who didnt wash their hands, wrong opening date on milk and chocolate milk, dirty pans, roach under shake machine, bottle of window cleaner stored by shake mixer and bottle of sanitizer on table where sauce was prepared. Next inspection: Sept. 29. Cheddars Scratch Kitchen, 535 S. Ridge Road Circle in Wichita Seven violations during a Sept. 21 routine inspection. Cited for not labeling whipped topping can with opening date, issues with reheating foods including potatoes, restaurant was cooling ribs in an open oven instead of refrigeration, fried chicken and shrimp werent kept hot enough, dirty meat slicer, missing records related to reduced-oxygen packaging of foods. Next inspection: Oct. 1. Dominos Pizza, 1615 E. 61st St. North in Wichita One violation during a Sept. 19 licensing inspection. Cited for not having hot water at a hand-washing sink. The restaurant passed its Sept. 26 follow-up inspection. The Independent School, 8333 E. Douglas in Wichita One violation during a Sept. 21 routine inspection. Cited over a kitchen hand-washing sink that didnt have hot water. When valves were adjusted, the water line started to leak. Next inspection: Nov. 1. J&As Flavored Kitchen food truck, 2837 N. Broadway in Wichita Six violations during a Sept. 21 first operational inspection after licensing. Cited for employee not washing hands after handling money, employee touching fryer knob then french fries without changing gloves, ready-to-serve foods including mac n cheese and chicken wings werent kept hot enough, accumulation of grease on fryer and table side, to-go containers stored on floor, hand-washing sink was storing dish rack and wet rags. Next inspection: Oct. 1. Oak & Pie, 2244 N. Greenwich, Ste. 900 in Wichita Four violations during a Sept. 20 inspection listed as a follow-up to an administrative order. Cited over foods that were out of temperature in refrigeration including tomatoes and salad mix, roasted garlic and garlic in oil were not marked with the time they were left out of refrigeration, dirty metal containers. Next inspection: Nov. 20. Riverside Cafe West, 9125 W. Central in Wichita Four violations during a Sept. 19 follow-up inspection. Cited over old tuna salad, restaurant doesnt have consumer advisory about consuming under-cooked hamburgers, no water pressure in hand-washing sink, bucket of sanitizer wasnt labeled with contents. Next inspection: Nov. 19. Wendys, 930 E. Connolly Court in Park City Nine violations during a Sept. 23 inspection prompted by a complaint. Cited over a fly landing on a slice of cheese, cooked beef patties werent labeled with preparation date, food in refrigeration including beef and strawberry mix for frosty machine wasnt cold enough, restaurant didnt label food items including cheese and lettuce with time they were left out, sticky fly strips over several kitchen surfaces, no paper towels at mens bathroom sink, live flies in restaurant, dead flies on counter and window ledge, unlabeled sanitizer containers. Next inspection: Oct. 3. Jackal by Erin E. Adams (Bantam) Something sinister lurks in the woods enveloping the fading industrial town of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. If you sense its presence, parents warn their children, Dont look. If you do, the myth will become real. Liz Rocher knows theres something to it. When she was a child, one of her friends disappeared, only to be found with her organs removed. When Liz was old enough, she moved away. But now, as Erin E. Adams novel Jackal opens, Liz reluctantly returns to attend a friends wedding. Being a Black female in Johnstown and in America is fraught with peril, Liz knows. As she puts it, Your beauty is denied but replicated. Your sexuality is controlled but desired. You take up too much space, but if you are too small, you are ripped apart. At the wedding, another Black girl ventures into the woods and vanishes. To Liz, the circumstances are horrifyingly similar to the loss of her childhood friend. Gradually, she discovers that local Black girls have gone missing, one every June, for generations police always dismissing the incidents as runaways or animal attacks. The first half of Jackal unfolds as a criminal investigation, but the novel slowly morphs into a gothic horror story. The monster in the woods is all too real. The author grew up in Johnstown, one of only three Black children in her school. As she recently put it, Ive lived with this story all my life. She infuses her tale with the tragic history of the place. In 1889, a dam burst, killing more than 2,200 people, most of them Black and poor whites who lived near the river. Three decades later, about 2,000 people of color fled the area after the mayor ordered them out. Jackal is a terrifying tale of the fears and hatreds generated by racism and class inequality and of the monsters these fears and hatreds have created. The novel shares the sensibilities of Jordan Peeles film Get Out, but Adams brings to it a depth possible only in books. Story continues Although this is the authors first novel, it is an extraordinary achievement. Her prose is exquisite, portraying characters and settings with a painters eye and the lyricism of a poet. For the most part, she tells her propulsive story without preaching, but in the end she allows Liz to nail the point home: Everyone in this townthis countryis so afraid of the other, whoever the other is today. If theres one thing fear can do, its make a beast out of a shadow. It turns us all into monsters. The enemy of the shadow isnt light. Its sight. In other words, if someone says Dont look, dont listen. ___ Bruce DeSilva, winner of the Mystery Writers of Americas Edgar Award, is the author of the Mulligan crime novels including The Dread Line. China is taking solid steps to peak carbon dioxide emissions and achieve carbon neutrality amid ongoing efforts to foster a new development paradigm and pursue high-quality development, the country's top economic regulator said on Thursday. Liu Dechun, director of the Department of Resource Conservation and Environmental Protection at the National Development and Reform Commission, said China has the ability to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 as planned. Citing official data, Liu said China has already made considerable progress in its green and low-carbon transformation of energy during the past decade. China's clean energy consumption accounted for 25.5 percent of total energy consumption in 2021, an increase of 11 percentage points from 2012. Meanwhile, the share of coal consumption stood at 56 percent last year, a decrease of 12.5 percentage points over 2012. Notably, China's installed capacity for generating wind and photovoltaic power increased by around 12-fold from 2012, and the nation's new energy power generation output has exceeded 1 trillion kilowatt-hours for the first time. China's installed capacity of renewable energy has now surpassed 1.1 billion kilowatts, with installed capacity for hydropower, wind, solar and biomass power generation gaining top spots worldwide. Between 2012 and 2021, China's energy consumption per unit of GDP dropped 26.4 percent, and CO2 emissions and water consumption per unit of GDP dipped 34.4 percent and 45 percent, respectively. Looking ahead, Liu said the country will continue to implement measures mapped out by the "1+N "policy system for carbon peak and carbon neutrality, in which "1" is the guiding opinion and "N" is the detailed scheme of various industries. More efforts will also be made to promote the green and low-carbon transformation of energy, accelerate the push for industrial upgrading, boost innovation of green and low-carbon technologies, and improve policies to promote healthy development of the carbon trading market. Citing official data, Wayne Huang, a Shanghai-based counsel at Linklaters, said the national exchange for carbon emissions trading has replaced the European Union Emissions Trading System as the world's largest carbon trading system by coverage, with over 2,000 companies in the power sector and covering over 4.5 billion metric tons of CO2 per year. Looking at longer term, Huang said China's carbon market can benefit greatly from the participation of international institutions. He added that a few of the existing pilot carbon trading markets in China allow limited participation by international institutions. But due to limitations in entry thresholds and cross-border fund flows, carbon trading activities by foreign institutions have been limited. This, however, may change with the proposed creation of a unified carbon market in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The star celebrated his 82nd birthday this July Sir Ringo Starr has cancelled several upcoming shows on his North American tour after catching Covid-19. The former Beatle, who is 82, had been playing a string of dates in the US and Canada with his All-Starr band before falling ill this weekend. After cancelling two shows at the last minute, "it has been confirmed today that Ringo has Covid and the tour will be on hold", his spokesperson said. The drummer is "recovering at home" and hopes to resume shows soon, they added. Tour dates planned for this week in Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia have all been cancelled. A decision has yet to be taken on upcoming shows in the US and Mexico. "We will keep fans updated with any further news or changes," his spokesperson told the BBC. Last year, Sir Ringo confessed that he had rarely ventured outside in the early days of the pandemic, to avoid catching Covid-19. "Since last March, I've left the house six times," he told USA Today last year. "You've got to help protect yourself if you can". Despite receiving two doses of the vaccine, he told the publication he was cautious about touring in 2021, saying: "I don't think it'll be safe. And that's it. Living in the now." The tour finally resumed in Canada this May, with Starr having played more than 25 shows since. The musician rose to fame in the 1960s as the Beatles' laconic, easy-going drummer. He sang lead vocals on tracks like With A Little Help From My Friends and Yellow Submarine, and launched a successful solo career after the Beatles split in 1970. He formed his All-Starr band, where "everybody on stage is a star in their own right" in 1989. The ever-changing line-up has included rock legends such as Joe Walsh, Peter Frampton, Todd Rundgren and Sheila E. Sir Ringo received his knighthood in 2018, and was inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame as a solo artist in 2015. Follow us on Facebook, or on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts. If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk. SUNDANCE, Utah As anyone across the American West will tell you, water is life. We cant do without it, and neither can the crops, livestock, natural habitat and wildlife that make this region so essential to the country and our vision of who we are as American people. Weve been reminded of waters centrality of late, because we no longer have enough of it. Much of the West is baking to chalk amid the regions worst drought in 1,200 years, part of the widening scourge of climate change. The nations largest reservoirs are three-quarters empty. The Colorado River could soon run dry in places. A resource this vital, and in dwindling supply, has to be protected. Since 1972, thats been the job of the Clean Water Act, one of the most successful federal laws in history. Lakes, rivers and species saved, but more must be done Since its enactment 50 years ago this Oct. 18, the Clean Water Act has provided the legal framework for safeguarding or restoring waterways nationwide, from Sitting Bull Creek to Lake Pontchartrain, improving, when not saving altogether, habitat for species from Virginia shellfish to Wisconsin brown trout. Ohios Cuyahoga River, once so choked with industrial waste that it literally caught fire, is now considered safe for fishing. Tourists are watching dolphins in the waters around New York City, now cleaner than at any time since the Civil War. Opinions in your inbox: Get exclusive access to our columnists and the best of our columns every day Theres far more work to be done, of course, to clean up and protect our rivers, wetlands, lakes and streams. The Clean Water Act, though, has changed the face of American waters and were all the better for it. The last thing we need, in the West or anywhere else, is to weaken this foundational law. Frighteningly, that is exactly what polluters are trying to accomplish in a case scheduled before the Supreme Court on Monday. If they succeed, tens of millions of acres of wetlands and thousands of miles of streams could lose the federal protections required to keep them clean. Story continues A case scheduled for the Supreme Court on Oct. 3, 2022, hinges on the question of whether the Clean Water Act protects wetlands, which feed into rivers, lakes and streams that feed the sources of clean drinking water for 1 in every 3 Americans. A case against the Clean Water Act, 15 years in the making The case hinges on the question of whether the Clean Water Act protects wetlands, which feed into rivers, lakes and estuaries, and streams that are sometimes or ordinarily dry, as is the case for many across the American West. We must prevent the unregulated pollution and destruction of those wetlands and streams, of course, because you cant protect a waterway without protecting the water that flows into it. Thats common sense. Its also the law, according to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers, the federal agencies that enforce the Clean Water Act. Fifteen years ago, the EPA told an Idaho couple that they had violated the law by destroying wetlands that drain into Priest Lake, a 23,000-acre jewel set in one of the nations most majestic natural areas. Michael and Chantell Sackett at the U.S. Supreme Court in 2011. A year later, the court unanimously agreed that they could immediately litigate their challenge to the EPAs order in federal court. In a hearing on Oct. 3, 2022, the justices will decide whether an appeals court used the proper test to decide whether wetlands are waters of the United States for purposes of the Clean Water Act. Instead of restoring the wetlands, as the EPA directed, the couple took the agency to court. Operators of an excavation and contracting business, they asserted the right to dump enough gravel and sand to fill up 400 pickups into wetlands a stones throw from the lake. Lower courts upheld the EPAs action. Now the couple, Michael and Chantell Sackett, have appealed to the Supreme Court. Theyre hardly acting alone. Property developers, industry groups vs. scientists, farmers, water agencies The Sacketts are represented by the Pacific Legal Foundation, a conservative nonprofit law firm that works to roll back the commonsense safeguards we all depend on to protect the environment and public health. Lining up on their side is a rogues gallery of industry groups equally devoted to putting polluter profits ahead of clean water: the American Petroleum Institute, the oil and gas lobbying group; the Koch Industries-backed Americans for Prosperity; the National Mining Association; and, naturally, the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association. These and a group of conservative members of Congress are using the Sackett case to argue before the court that property developers and polluting industries should be free to destroy wetlands, which protect communities from flooding and filter pollutants from runoff, and streams that feed the sources of clean drinking water for 1 in every 3 Americans. Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store. Arguing in support of clean water protections are the experts who understand the issue best. Among them: renowned scientists; representatives for more than 350 municipal clean water agencies; business, farming and ranching interests; a coalition of 50 nonprofit Waterkeeper groups that defend waters from the Puget Sound to Tampa Bay; and nearly 20 federally recognized tribes that have depended, for thousands of years, on healthy water systems from Lake Superior to the Cimarron River. We can only hope their insights prevail. Oral arguments are scheduled for Monday. Protecting water means protecting its source In a ruling this summer, the courts conservative majority narrowed the EPAs options for limiting climate-wrecking carbon pollution from the nations single largest industrial source dirty power plants that burn gas and coal. Now clean waters about to go on trial. Robert Redford is a longtime environmentalist and trustee of the National Resources Defense Council since 1975. In the American West, as everywhere, water is life itself. Protecting clean water means protecting its source, including the natural wetlands and rain-dependent streams that drain into rivers and lakes. As the nation marks the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, we should honor the progress that law has delivered, not weaken it to appease big polluters. Robert Redford is a director, actor, activist and trustee of the Natural Resources Defense Council. More from Opinion: This is our life. This is us. How our Florida journalists are covering Hurricane Ian. Jacksons water crisis isn't just a moment. It's a systemic catastrophe. Don't blame Supreme Court justices for behaving as expected. Change how they're chosen. You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Clean Water Act: Supreme Court should protect resource, not destroy it NEW CITY Rockland property owners would not see a county tax increase in 2023 for the second consecutive year under Rockland County Executive Ed Day's proposed budget. Day suggested the Rockland Legislature adopt an $812.4 million spending plan for 2023, an increase over the $789 million budget for 2022. The Legislature Budget and Finance Committee review of Day's proposal starts Oct. 12 and goes into November. The lawmakers will hold a public hearing set for Nov. 15 and an adoption vote on Dec. 1. The Day proposal for 2023 would likely maintain the average county property tax bill at an estimated $1,292. The bill is the lowest compared to taxes paid to school districts, towns and villages. Residents also pay into special government funds like sewers and garbage and recycling collection. Tax repeal: Rockland is repealing a 4.25% tax on energy; what utility projects for winter costs Schools: East Ramapo's 'fiscal cliff' looms. Can the district fix its budget before it's too late? Rockland 2022 budget approved: See what legislators added, how it impacts taxes Budget announcement: Video of County Executive Ed Day unveiling budget details. The budget proposal is projected to be supported by $261 million in sales tax revenues and $130.7 million in property taxes. The 2022 budget depended on $240 million in sales taxes revenues and $130.7 million in property taxes. What's in Day's plan creating 43 positions and abolishing 15 vacancies with no proposed layoffs completing $30 million in nine highway and bridge capital projects, financed by state and federal funding, with only $1.5 million coming from county tax dollars a 10% increase of $518,200 for nonprofit agencies, including support for medical programs, the infirmed, domestic violence survivors and drug addicts introducing legislation to opt into the states new bill that increases the income eligibility for seniors seeking a reduction in property taxes from $29,000 to $50,000 for people ages 65 and older purchasing six parkland properties covering 37 acres as part of the county's Open Space Acquisition program, funded through last years budget process Mirrored after Westchester Countys HEROES Program, Day is proposing $1.5 million in college tuition assistance for volunteer firefighters and emergency responders. This program will provide responders with $6,000 toward their college tuition. Story continues Day spoke about working with the 17-member Legislature to improve county programs and infrastructure while remaining prudent with spending county tax dollars. He noted the county has excised local taxes on gasoline and energy, saving an estimated $11 million annually, equivalent to an 8.4% property tax reduction. Day suggested bolstering several departments, including the Sheriff's Office, suicide prevention services offered by the Department of Mental Health, and the Department of Health following outbreaks of measles, COVID-19 and polio during the past few years. The new positions will cost $1.45 million. "We will continue the prudent and protective practices that have gotten us this far and work hard to preserve our county for future generations," Day said. What new jobs would be for The Rockland County Legislature held the first meeting of the year where the chairman, co-chairman, majority and minority leaders were sworn in at Rockland County Office Building in New City Jan. 3, 2019. Day said the new positions he has proposed were needed for "strengthening departments that are, without question, in high demand including the Department of Health, Environmental Resources, which oversees our parks, and the Department of Mental Health." He noted health department officials and employees have been battle-tested, responding to three nearly back-to-back health emergencies. "It is clear, this department needs more boots on the ground," Day said. He proposed hiring someone to handle Freedom of Information requests for documents under state law. He proposed re-establishing the job of commissioner of General Services to oversee Purchasing, Facilities, Capital Projects and Information and Communication Systems. Day said since the pandemic, county parks have experienced an explosion of usage by residents and visitors. He has suggested three new positions for Environmental Resources to accommodate the growing demand in parks and better maintain the facilities that currently exist. He proposed two positions for the Department of Mental Health, including a psychiatric social worker, who will head the Suicide Prevention Coalition with veterans being a focus. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans make up nearly 14% of the suicides in the U.S. The Sheriff's Office will get a position for safety initiatives to issue summonses to drivers passing stopped school buses. He noted the county will have hundreds of buses equipped with stop-arm cameras. He said a state grant will finance training to respond to active shooters at schools and buildings. "Many of these new positions have one central focus secure, long-term planning of the county," Day said. "True sustainability means not just thinking about today, tomorrow or next year; its planning for 10, 20 or even 30 years ahead." Plans for future discussed Day said the county will judiciously spend the $63 million in federal funding through the federal government's American Rescue Plan. Day said the county has dispersed more than $1 million in grants to small businesses and restaurants and are on track to award close to $10 million to municipalities and nonprofits for green spaces. "We will not burden our children and grandchildren with these costs," he said. "Instead, we will move forward judiciously, maximize the funding we receive, and keep the hands of the county government out of your pocketbooks and wallets." The Legislature has scheduled a budget review session at the County Office Building for 6 p.m. on Oct. 12 with a presentation by Finance Commissioner Stephen DeGroat. Other sessions this month are set for 6 p.m. on Oct. 20, and 7:15 p.m. on Oct. 25. In November, budget sessions are set for 6 p.m. on Nov. 3, 7:15 p.m. on Nov. 9, 6 p.m. on Nov. 17, and 7:15 p.m. on Nov. 21. If the Legislature takes no action by Dec. 7, the budget is adopted. If the Legislature amends the proposed budget, the county executive has five working days to veto any changes. The Legislature would have until Dec. 20 to override any vetos with 12 votes. Its an $800 million budget and well have to review all of the details but based on what the county executive said during his announcement, there are positive plans included in his 2023 proposal, Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr., D-Haverstraw, said. Whats most important is that we end up with a budget that is as efficient as possible while maintaining the services residents and businesses rely on. Steve Lieberman covers government, breaking news, courts, police, and investigations. Reach him at slieberm@lohud.com. Twitter: @lohudlegal. Read more articles and bio. Our local coverage is only possible with support from our readers. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Rockland proposed budget would add jobs with no tax hike From wearing campaign garb at hurricane recovery events to falsely asserting that Ians landfall wasnt even in the cone three days earlier, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is taking his combative, hyper-partisan style into his first major natural disaster response since taking office and just weeks before the Nov. 8 election that would give the Republican a second term. He doesnt handle scrutiny well. The governor suffers from a glass jaw and quick temper, said David Jolly, a former GOP congressman from Tampa. It becomes apparent as hes challenged with facts that dont fit his narrative. It may be tough to confront a governors word during tragedy, but its important the state know the truth. On Monday, DeSantis grew testy in an interview with a CNN reporter who asked him if Lee County, where Hurricane Ian made landfall, should have called for a mandatory evacuation earlier than Tuesday, just a day before the storm hit, the way neighboring counties had done. Where was your industry stationed when the storm hit? Were you guys in Lee County? No, you were in Tampa, he said to the reporter. So they were following the weather track, and they had to make decisions based on that. But, you know, 72 hours, they werent even in the cone. Forty-eight hours, they were on the periphery, so youve got to make the decisions best you can. The archived charts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations website, however, prove DeSantis wrong. From the 8 a.m. forecast on Sept. 25 through landfall Wednesday, forecasters cone of the storms likely path always included Pine Island and the Caloosahatchee River, which are both in Lee County. And though the forecast track on Sept. 25 and 26 took the storm further north into Tampa Bay, meteorologists warned that Ian would be a major, Category 4 hurricane generating significant storm surge along the coast to the east of the storms center, meaning that Lee County was always at risk of flooding, even had Ian made landfall further north. Story continues Regardless of Ians exact track and intensity, there is a risk of dangerous storm surge, hurricane-force winds, and heavy rainfall along the west coast of Florida and the Florida Panhandle by the middle of the week, forecasters warned. The governors office did not respond to HuffPost queries, and his campaign office responded only by sending a link to the NOAA site that proves DeSantis misspoke. DeSantis has learned the lesson essential to the success of any demagogue: It is not important that what you say be true. It is only important that it be believed, said Mac Stipanovich, a longtime Republican consultant in Florida. And he knows that whatever he says will be believed by the GOP faithful, because to not believe would be an act of tribal treason. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wears branded campaign gear as he speaks Sunday at a press briefing about Hurricane Ian in Arcadia. (Photo: WZVN/Reuters) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wears branded campaign gear as he speaks Sunday at a press briefing about Hurricane Ian in Arcadia. (Photo: WZVN/Reuters) Charlie Crist, the former Republican governor of Florida now seeking his old job as a Democrat, said he wonders how many of Lee Countys 42 deaths and counting might have been prevented if county officials had ordered an evacuation on Sept. 26, as neighboring counties did, rather than Sept. 27. You wonder if the order had been issued earlier, how many of these people might still be with us, he said, adding that DeSantis himself could have helped by publicly calling for all residents in flood-prone areas of southwest Florida to evacuate when it became clear the storm was at the very least going to pass close by. If the governor weighs in and says you probably ought to evacuate, they probably would have done it, Crist said. During Mondays interview, DeSantis was clad in a dark blue vest prominently displaying his campaign logo just as he was at multiple official hurricane recovery events on Sunday thereby giving his reelection bid invaluable advertising for free. In the morning, he participated in a church-sponsored food and water distribution session in Naples sporting the vest, and was still wearing it later as he toured the North Port area by airboat and then took part in a media availability. In Arcadia, still in the branded campaign gear, he staged a news conference, complete with a sign language interpreter and a lectern bearing the State of Florida seal. All of the Sunday events were posted on his official governors office Twitter account. His campaign sells multiple items with the logo on its website, including drink coozies, flags and a $25 T-shirt with the motto: Never. Ever. Back. Down. Theres attire you can wear when youre getting a tour or briefed thats a little less campaigny, Crist said. Before Ian hit and in the days immediately following, DeSantis had been wearing a jacket marked with the Division of Emergency Management logo, as previous governors have done. It is unclear why he switched to campaign wear. As for the brazen display of campaign merchandise while on very serious official business, it is just more contempt for traditional governing norms, Stipanovich said. DeSantis does these things because he knows he will get away with them, and that is all that matters. Right and wrong dont enter into his calculations. DeSantis broke the mold of a statewide primary win in Florida by campaigning using frequent appearance on Fox News rather than the traditional method of appearing at as many local party and civic events as possible. The strategy paid off when then-President Donald Trump, an avid Fox News viewer, endorsed him over his Florida establishment-backed opponent. Upon narrowly winning the 2018 general election, DeSantis spent his first year in office governing like a relatively mainstream Republican. That changed with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, though, when he reverted to the persona favored by Trumps voting base: lashing out at critics and attacking the mainstream news media. He adopted a practice of staging news availabilities in locations around the state, inviting local and right-wing media outlets but not letting the state Capitols press corps in Tallahassee even know about them until shortly before their start times, making their attendance impossible. The recent state-paid flight taking 50 asylum seekers from the Texas border to Marthas Vineyard, Massachusetts, for example, was given to Fox News as an exclusive. The network had a crew positioned on the vacation island for the planes arrival. And while Ians arrival in Florida has presented DeSantis an opportunity to show himself as a more normal governor just as many voters are tuning in to the 2022 governors race, it is uncertain whether DeSantis will choose to take it. DeSantis fundamental flaw is vanity, hubris. It may prove to be his undoing, Stipanovich said. The Marthas Vineyard stunt and the resulting blowback is an example of judgment clouded by overweening confidence. This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Related... Pope Francis has asked Vladimir Putin to bring the war in Ukraine to an end and warned about the absurd risk of nuclear escalation in Europe. He also urged Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky to be open to serious proposals for peace. It comes as Ukraine has recaptured two more settlements in Kherson oblast, just days after Russia claimed the territory following a so-called referendum, Zelensky announced. He added that the success of Ukrainian soldiers are not limited to Lyman the logistics centre in the countrys east which was also recaptured this week, marking a significant victory for Kyiv. This week, the largest part of the [battlefield] reports is the list of settlements liberated from the enemy as part of our defence operation, Mr Zelensky said. A Russian-installed official in the Kherson region, Kirill Stremousov, admitted in a video statement today that the Ukrainian forces have broken through a little deeper. However, he insisted that everything is under control and that Russias defense system is working in the region. Key Points Pope says world faces atomic threat as he calls on Zelensky to be open to peace talks Ukraine takes back territory in two more regions claimed by Russia Ukrainian forces have made breakthroughs in Kherson region, says Russian official Russian city sends back half of mobilised men, commissar fired - governor Russia struggling to find officers to lead new units after mobilising - MoD At least 35 settlements shelled by Russia in 24 hours, says Ukraine Russia is in trouble: Ukraine forces make more advances in Kherson 16:09 , Joe Middleton Ukrainian forces are continuing to advance south and have reportedly made breakthroughs in the Kherson region and taken control of some settlements. Kyiv has stayed silent on details of the assault in the south of the country, but Russian military bloggers have described a Ukrainian tank advance through dozens of kilometres of territory along the bank of the Dnipro river. Story continues Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to the interior ministry, posted what he said was video of a Ukrainian soldier waving a flag in Zolota Balka, downriver from the former front line. Qatar urges Russia to respect Ukraines sovereignty 15:18 , Joe Middleton Qatar said on today it was tracking with great concern the developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict after Russias announcement on its annexation of a swathe of Ukrainian territory and called for a peaceful settlement. The State of Qatar is following with great concern the current developments in the Russian-Ukrainian crisis related to Russias announcement of the annexation of Ukrainian lands, and stresses the need to respect Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, and to adopt dialogue as a way to resolve the crisis, Qatars foreign ministry said in a statement. It added it was ready to contribute to international or regional efforts for an immediate peaceful resolution. Pope says world faces atomic threat as he calls on Zelensky to be open to peace talks 14:38 , Joe Middleton Pope Francis has pleaded with Vladimir Putin to bring the war in Ukraine to an end, as he denounced the absurd risk of nuclear escalation in Europe and the potential for uncontrollable and catastrophic consequences worldwide. Speaking on Sunday in the Angelus prayer, it was the first time Francis has called upon Mr Putin and cited his role in the war directly. At the same time, he urged Volodymyr Zelensky to be open to serious peace negotiations, as he said that he is saddened by the rivers of blood and tears spilled in these months. Arpan Rai reports. Pope says world faces atomic threat, calling on Zelensky to be open to peace talks Czech Republic warns citizens to leave Russia 14:02 , Joe Middleton The Czech Republic widened a warning for its citizens to leave Russia today following Moscows mobilisation orders last month, the Foreign Ministry said. The Czech government had already warned against travel to Russia and urged citizens there to leave in February after the countrys invasion of Ukraine. Today, the ministry expanded its warning, saying Czechs simultaneously holding Russian citizenship faced risks after a mobilisation call in September, a ministry spokeswoman said. Citizens of the Czech Republic who also hold Russian citizenship should bear in mind that if they are on the territory of the Russian Federation, they are perceived by Russian authorities primarily as citizens of the Russian Federation, the ministry said on its website. The Czech Embassy in Moscow cannot provide them with adequate, full consular protection. The ministry also newly warned about the inability to use bank cards issued in the Czech Republic in Russia due to sanctions, Reuters reports. The Czech Republic has been one of Ukraines biggest supporters, sending military aid to Kyiv, and it has also taken in hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees. This map shows the state of affairs in the Russian invasion of Ukraine 13:35 , Joe Middleton This map shows the state of affairs in the Russian invasion of Ukraine (Press Association Images) Chechen leader Kadyrov sends three teenage sons, one aged 14, to fight in Ukraine 13:18 , Joe Middleton Chechen leader and key Vladimir Putin-ally Ramzan Kadyrov has revealed that he has sent his three young sons to fight in Ukraine. The warlord has been a vocal champion of the conflict in Ukraine, with Chechen forces forming part of the vanguard of the Russian army, and even advocated using nuclear weapons in the war over the weekend. And now the Chechen forces will be joined on the frontline by his sons Akhmat, 16, Eli, 15, and Adam, 14, reports Russias RIA Novosti news agency. Chechen leader Kadyrov sends three teenage sons, one aged 14, to fight in Ukraine Lithuanias declares Russias top diplomat in the country persona non grata 12:45 , Joe Middleton Lithuanias Ministry of Foreign Affairs today declared Russias top diplomat in the country persona non grata. (His) recent actions and statements are incompatible with a diplomats status, and should be seen as interference in the host nations domestic affairs, the ministry said in a statement. The ministry did not detail alleged offences of the Russian charge daffaires, who was told to leave the country within five days. The Russian Foreign Ministry told RIA news agency that it would give an appropriate response. Lithuania expelled Russias ambassador in April and recalled its own, lowering its diplomatic ties to the level of charge daffaires after Ukraine accused Russian forces of killing civilians in the town of Bucha. Ukraine forces advance south and make gains in Kherson 12:23 , Joe Middleton Ukrainian forces are continuing to advance south and have reportedly made breakthroughs in the Kherson region and taken control of some settlements. Kyiv has stayed silent on details of the assault in the south of the country, but Russian military bloggers have described a Ukrainian tank advance through dozens of kilometres of territory along the bank of the Dnipro river. Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to the interior ministry, posted what he said was video of a Ukrainian soldier waving a flag in Zolota Balka, downriver from the former front line. Ukraine forces advance south and make gains in Kherson Ukraine wants to join Nato but will that happen? 11:49 , Joe Middleton Kyiv is aleady a de facto member, says Zelensky, so does it need Nato at all, asks Alastair Jamieson. Ukraine wants to join Nato but will that happen? Kremlin says it favours balanced approach to nuclear weapons 11:19 , Joe Middleton The Kremlin on Monday said it favoured a balanced approach to the issue of nuclear weapons, not based on emotion, after a key ally of president Vladimir Putin called over the weekend for Russia to use a low-yield nuclear weapon in Ukraine. Asked about the comments by Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of the Chechnya region, who also criticised Russias military leadership over battlefield setbacks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had the right to voice his opinion, but that Russias military approach should not be driven by emotions. Peskov said the basis for any use of nuclear weapons was set down in Russias nuclear doctrine. MoD publishes latest map on Russia-Ukraine war 10:46 , Joe Middleton The illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is continuing. The map below is the latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine 10 October 2022 Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/o0rQ7MPibc #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/fAeSd127ra Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) October 3, 2022 Ukrainian forces have made breakthroughs in Kherson region, says Russian official 10:10 , Joe Middleton Ukrainian forces have made some breakthroughs in the southern Kherson region and taken control of some settlements, a Russian-installed official said on Monday. Its tense, lets put it that way, Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed head of Ukraines Kherson region, said on state television. Russia formally moved to annex four Ukrainian territories last week, including Kherson region, but none are fully under the control of Moscows forces and Ukraine continues to advance in the south. Russian journalist faces investigation 09:42 , Joe Middleton Prominent Russian journalist Ksenia Sobchak faces a criminal investigation over a story that police suspect was fake, state news agency TASS reported on Monday, citing an unidentified source in law enforcement. Sobchak, whose late father was the mayor of St Petersburg in the 1990s and worked closely with Vladimir Putin, hosts a YouTube channel with over 3 million subscribers. She also founded a popular Telegram account which regularly shares stories critical of Russias mobilisation efforts. TASS reported that Sobchaks story related to state funding of festivals and that she could be charged under an article of Russian law that provides for three-year jail sentences. Neither Sobchak, 40, nor representatives of her news site immediately responded to a Reuters request for comment on the TASS report. Sobchak has so far avoided prosecution, but authorities have scrutinised her in the past for sharing so-called LGBT propaganda and declaring that Crimea was still Ukrainian after its annexation by Russia in 201, reports Reuters Since invading Ukraine in February, Russia has cracked down on independent media and prosecuted numerous journalists for spreading fake news about what it calls its special military operation. Ukraine forces advance south as Moscow yields further territory 09:03 , Joe Middleton Ukrainian forces were reported to be recapturing towns along the west bank of the Dnipro River in southern Ukraine on Monday, with Moscow forced to yield territory along a second major front line just days after claiming to have annexed it. The scale of the Ukrainian advance was unconfirmed, with Kyiv maintaining all but complete silence about the situation in the area. But Russian military bloggers described a Ukrainian tank advance through dozens of kilometers of territory along the bank of the river. In one of the rare comments by a Ukrainian official on the situation, Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to the interior ministry, posted what he said was video of a Ukrainian soldier waving a flag in Zolota Balka, downriver from the former front line. Rob Lee, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute think-tank, cited Russian bloggers as reporting their forces falling back as far as Dudchany - 40 km (25 miles) downriver from where they had opposed Ukrainian troops a day earlier. When this many Russian channels are sounding the alarm, it usually means theyre in trouble, he wrote on Twitter. A Ukrainian advance along the Dnipro river could trap thousands of Russian troops on the far side, cut off from all supplies. The river is enormously wide, and Ukraine has already destroyed the major crossings. The reports were the first to describe a rapid Ukrainian advance in the south of the country since the war began, and come just a day after Ukraine routed Russian troops in a major bastion, Lyman, on the opposite end of the front in the east. Russia attacks 35 settlements with missiles and air strikes, claims Ukraines military 08:27 , Joe Middleton Ukraines military said early on Monday Russian forces had used missiles, air strikes and artillery in attacks on 35 settlements in the previous 24 hours. Meanhile, Ukraines air force had attacked a command post, weapons caches and an anti-aircraft missile complex, as well as bringing down one helicopter, one attack aircraft and eight drones, it said. The governor of the Zaporizhzhia region, said Russian forces had attacked Zaporizhzhia city and nearby villages overnight, with at least 10 missiles. Reuters could not independently verify battlefield reports. CPAC deletes tweet criticising support for Ukraine against Russian invasion 08:05 , Joe Middleton The Conservative Political Action Conferences Twitter account deleted a tweet criticising Congress for passing aid to Ukraine amid Russias invasion on Friday. On Friday evening, the account for the popular conservative gathering tweeted about Russian President Vladimir Putins annexation of certain territories in Ukraine and Congresss recent passage of additional aid to Ukraine. Vladimir Putin announces the annexation of 4 Ukrainian-occupied territories, the tweet said. Biden and the Dems continue to send Ukraine billions of taxpayer dollars. Meanwhile, we are under attack at our southern border. When will Democrats put #AmericaFirst and end gift-giving to Ukraine? Eric Garcia reports. CPAC deletes tweet criticising support for Ukraine against Russian invasion Thousands of Russians mobilised for military service in Ukraine sent home 07:42 , Joe Middleton Thousands of Russians mobilised for military service in Ukraine have been sent home and the military commissar in Russias Khabarovsk region removed in the latest setback to president Vladimir Putins chaotic conscription of 300,000 servicemen. Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russias Far East, said several thousand men had reported for enlistment in 10 days but many were ineligible. About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service, Degtyarev said in a video post on the Telegram messaging app. He said the regions military commissar was removed but that his dismissal would not affect the mobilisation. The mobilisation was billed as enlisting those with military experience but has often appeared oblivious to service records, health, student status and even age. Russians fleeing the draft tell of three-day queues and bribes to cross border 07:23 , Joe Middleton Russian men desperate to avoid fighting in Ukraine following Vladimir Putins conscription order have told of three-day long border queues and bribing security officials with hundreds of pounds at makeshift checkpoints. Bel Trew reports. Russians fleeing the draft tell of three-day queues and bribes to cross border ICYMI: Key Donetsk town liberated and under full Ukrainian control, Zelensky says 07:11 , Arpan Rai A town in the Donetsk region of Ukraine crucial to Russias war plans has been liberated and is now under full Ukrainian control, president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday. As of 12.30pm (09.30 GMT), Lyman is fully cleared, Mr Zelensky said in a short video clip on his Telegram channel. There was no immediate comment from the Russian armed forces on the status of Lyman, captured by Kremlin forces in May. Russia on Saturday pulled its troops out of Lyman, which had a pre-war population of around 20,000, because Kyivs forces had closed in and threatened to encircle them amid ongoing counter-offensives in the north and east of the country. Videos posted online at around 11.20am on Sunday - and shared by Mr Zelenskys office - showed Ukrainian soldiers raising the countrys national blue and yellow flag at the entrance to the town. Read the full story here: Key Donetsk town liberated and under full Ukrainian control, Zelensky says Ukraine wants to join Nato but will that happen? 07:00 , Arpan Rai Volodymyr Zelenskys application on Thursday to join Nato could be viewed as a symbolic step that keeps up pressure on Moscow rather than a sign of imminent Nato membership. The wartime president announcement that he is to accelerate his countrys bid to join Nato was understandable as a swift and symbolic response to Vladimir Putins grandstand proclamation in Moscow that another four parts of Ukraine now belong to Russia. To merely refute Putins claim, which rests on the supposed result of a sham referendum process, would have felt insufficient. Arguably, Ukraines bid to join is further away now than before Russias February invasion; membership is not usually granted to countries involved in territorial disputes, which was already the case thanks to Putins 2014 annexation of Crimea. This is because of Natos article V requirement for mutual defence in the event of an attack, which would effectively commit Nato members to direct military involvement in the Ukraine war, writes Alastair Jamieson: Ukraine wants to join Nato but will that happen? Russia struggling to find officers to lead new units after mobilising - MoD 06:51 , Arpan Rai With reserve forces piling up in Russias training tents, top officials in the Kremlin are struggling to find officers to lead these new units, the British defence ministry said today. Vladimir Putin last week addressed his National Security Council on the partial mobilisation and said a lot of questions are being raised during this mobilisation campaign, and we must promptly correct our mistakes and not repeat them, the ministry said. Mr Putins unusually rapid acknowledgement of problems highlights the dysfunction of the mobilisation over its first week, the defence ministry said. Russias local officials are likely without a clue on the exact scope and legal rationale of the campaign, it added. They have almost certainly drafted some personnel who are outside the definitions claimed by Putin and the Ministry of Defence, the MoD said. As drafted reservists continue to assemble at tented transit camps, Russian officials are likely struggling to provide training and in finding officers to lead new units, it added. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 3 October 2022 Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/fJAgk1CCPa #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/01TKtrgPXM Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) October 3, 2022 Russia stealing Ukrainian grain to pay for Putin's war 06:38 , Arpan Rai Top Ukrainian diplomats have said that a bulk cargo ship owned by Syria which docked in Lebanon last summer was carrying tons of grains stolen by Russia in a bid to pay for the invasion and war on Ukraine. An investigation by the Associated Press and the PBS series Frontline has discovered that the cargo ship Laodicea is part of Russias sophisticated smuggling operation which is stealing Ukrainian grain worth at least $530 million in cash to help generate funds for Moscow. Moscow called the allegation false and baseless. Satellite images and marine radio transponder data tracking three dozen ships show these vessels making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to ports in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and other countries. At least 35 settlements shelled by Russia in 24 hours, says Ukraine 06:27 , Arpan Rai Russian forces have used missiles, air strikes and artillery in attacks on 35 settlements in the previous 24 hours, Ukrainian military officials said today. Ukraines air force attacked a Russian command post, weapons caches and an anti-aircraft missile complex, and also brought down one helicopter, one attack aircraft and eight drones, the military officials said. However, Russian offensive continued in the Zaporizhzhia city and its nearby villages overnight with at least 10 missiles, the governor of the Zaporizhzhia region said. Russian city sends back half of mobilised men, commissar fired - governor 05:56 , Arpan Rai At least half of the freshly mobilised army personnel have been sent home in the Russian city of Khabarovsk as they did not meet the draft criteria, the regional governor said today. Officials also fired the military commissar of the city, he added. In 10 days, several thousand of our countrymen received summons and arrived at the military registration and enlistment offices, said Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russias far east, in a video post on the Telegram messaging app. He added: About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service. The removal of the commissar, Yuri Laiko, would not affect the mobilisation plan set out by Vladimir Putin, he said. Reclaiming Crimea feels inevitable, says top Ukrainian official 05:44 , Arpan Rai The top Ukrainian official for Crimea has said that she and her team are actively planning for the reversal of eight years of Russian rule on the annexed peninsula. This is moment X. Right now everything is happening in a way that it feels inevitable, Tamila Tasheva, the permanent representative of the president of Ukraine in the autonomous republic of Crimea, told The Guardian. It may not happen tomorrow, but I think it will be much quicker than I thought a year ago, she said. There are currently no military indications that Ukraine is close to recapturing its former territory, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine takes back territory in two more regions claimed by Russia in pseudo-referendums, says Zelensky 05:23 , Arpan Rai Volodymyr Zelensky announced Ukrainian troops have reclaimed two settlements over the weekend in the Kherson oblast, which was claimed by Russia at the end of last week in an illegal land-grab. This week, the largest part of the reports is the list of settlements liberated from the enemy as part of our defence operation. The story of the liberation of Lyman in the Donetsk region has now become the most popular in the media. But the successes of our soldiers are not limited to Lyman, Mr Zelensky said in his late night address on Sunday. He said that when the Ukrainian flag is returned to places where pseudo-referendums were held, no one remembers the Russian farce with some pieces of paper and some annexations. Except, of course, the law enforcement agencies of Ukraine. Because everyone who is involved in any elements of aggression against our state will be accountable for it, Mr Zelensky warned. Ukraine marked a significant territorial success on Sunday after it fully cleared the Lyman city of Russian forces and claimed control over the territory. 05:15 , Arpan Rai Good morning, welcome to our coverage of the Ukraine war on Monday, 3 October. WASHINGTON The Pentagons international affairs chief said Monday that Russias new losses in the strategic southern Kherson region are about to spiral into a major defeat that would give Ukraine a defensive position amid hot fighting expected this winter. After news that Ukrainian forces broke through Moscows defenses in Kherson, which Moscow saw as the gateway to Odessa, Assistant Defense Secretary for International Security Affairs Celeste Wallander said the Ukrainians were on the verge of pushing back the main Russian bridgehead across the Dnipro River. That would be a major defeat for Russia because it pushes back even more Russias ambition to take Odessa, which was one of the stated objectives earlier this year, Wallander said at a Center for Strategic and International Studies event. It gives Ukraine another defensive position to ride out what probably will be hot fighting over the winter, Wallander said, adding that in spite of Ukraines recent strategic successes, the U.S. and international community must continue to supply Ukraine with aid. Already, Russias recent loss of the town Lyman, which its forces used as a logistics hub in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, would significantly affect Russias ability to supply, resupply and move its forces all along that forward line of conflict, she said. A senior U.S. military official said that Russian troops had fallen back to Kremmina, a town more than 30 kilometers east of Lyman. Denying Russia Lyman could impact its supply lines along the eastern front down to Bakhmut, a contested city 60 kilometers south of Lyman where the fighting continues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Sunday that Russian forces were cleared from Lyman, one of the four areas in Ukraine that Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed last week. Putins land grab has threatened to push the conflict to a dangerous new level. After U.S. President Joe Biden said last week the U.S. would never recognize Russias claims on those regions, Putin said he would consider the use of all available means to protect the territory which has been seen as a threat to use nuclear weapons. Story continues U.S. Army soldiers showcase their vehicles capability to Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Celeste Wallander at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, on May 11, 2022. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Thurnapuf Valle, 5th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.) Speaking Sunday on Fareed Zakaria GPS, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called Putins threats an illegal claim and an irresponsible statement. This nuclear saber-rattling is not the kind of thing we would expect to hear from leaders of large countries with capability, Austin said, adding that, while he has warned his Russian counterpart about this path in the past, the decision is Putins. Austin has not ruled out that Putin would act on his threats. There are no checks on Mr. Putin. Just as he made the irresponsible decision to invade Ukraine, you know, he could make another decision. But I dont see anything right now that would lead me to believe that he has made such a decision, Austin said. Separately, Wallander said NATO should be asserting its unity and nuclear capability in answer to Russias facile reliance on nuclear threats. Asked about the alliances plans since Russia invaded Ukraine seven months ago, Wallander hailed NATOs new multinational battlegroups along its eastern border. She also said its members increasingly see spending targets as a floor not a ceiling and want to focus that spending on both modernization and with an eye on Russias hollow forces advanced training. I think the old debate about is it deterrence by tripwire, deterrence by denial? is behind us now. Its clear that what you need is an effective, credible defensive capability in order to deter an adversary, in this case, Russia, Wallander said. What that credible defense looks like varies by areas of Europe. It includes not just ground forces, it includes air defense, it includes maritime domain, so it is multi-dimensional, but allies are really digging into what that looks like in their national capabilities, she said. Beyond billions in military, financial and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, Wallander said discussions within the U.S. about reconstruction aid are already underway. Wallander said the European Union, World Bank, International Monetary Fund should be involved. I think the main message is that its not the United States alone, it is actually these international institutions. And, and I think the Europeans have a strong commitment to supporting Ukraine, Wallander said. LONDON (Reuters) - Prominent Russian journalist Ksenia Sobchak faces a criminal investigation over a story that police suspect was "fake", state news agency TASS reported on Monday, citing an unidentified source in law enforcement. Sobchak, whose late father was the mayor of St Petersburg in the 1990s and worked closely with Vladimir Putin, hosts a YouTube channel with over 3 million subscribers. She also founded a popular Telegram account which regularly shares stories critical of Russia's mobilisation efforts. TASS reported that Sobchak's story related to "state funding of festivals" and that she could be charged under an article of Russian law that provides for three-year jail sentences. Neither Sobchak, 40, nor representatives of her news site immediately responded to a Reuters request for comment on the TASS report. Sobchak has so far avoided prosecution, but authorities have scrutinised her in the past for sharing so-called "LGBT propaganda" and declaring that Crimea was still Ukrainian after its annexation by Russia in 2014. Since invading Ukraine in February, Russia has cracked down on independent media and prosecuted numerous journalists for spreading "fake" news about what it calls its "special military operation". (Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge and Gareth Jones) Peter Pomerantsev, journalist and writer For the start, I would like to discuss a little of what Putin said. He has already announced that "Russia is here forever" in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. It is also said that Putin has declared total war, in the sense that Russia will fight as long as Putin and his regime are alive. You used the term total war when you quoted Joseph Goebbels in your recent article in The Guardian. He said in 1943 that the Third Reich was surrounded by insidious Jews. In your opinion, is it possible to say that Putin openly said as long as I am alive, all this will continue? It was my birthday (Sept. 30) and I was driving from Washington DC to New York. And I only followed the speech on Twitter. I didn't have time to listen to it all. Sometimes tone is very important. I don't know what the tone was. People said that Putin was not being himself. And everyone in the hall was scared that the leader of the country was already out of his mind. If you look at the theses that were on Twitter and so on. Yes, total war. Yes, forever. But at the same time, what kind of war? There was not a word about Ukraine. He didn't talk about Ukraine. He lost to Ukraine. He needed to change the frame, change the focus. So, it was a total war, not even with NATO, but a global war with Satanists, and so on. In a sense, he was probably trying to distract from the losses, firstly. Secondly, he said that there will be war forever, but perhaps it will be more like a cold war. Because this is a war where there is a worthy enemy; which Russia cannot legitimately win because the enemy is bigger. And that means the Cold War is forever. We are looking for rational explanations for this nonsense. He is preparing for a Cold War. But there must be a nuclear environment before it either the use of nuclear weapons, or a huge tension. If we try to look for some meaning in these nauseating rhetorical feces, like doctors, then there will be huge nuclear tension, maybe even the use of nuclear weapons, and then there will be a new cold war, where Russia is the main and great enemy of the huge satanic West. Story continues There is an opinion that Putin still believes that he can defeat the West. Do you agree with this? Could this be in his head? It is clear that if people have been in power for so long, especially if they are small people with very large insecurities, who begin to think of themselves as a messianic figures. He is a very angry, humiliated person who has achieved enormous power and, of course, such messianic themes have long been in his head. Of course, if this is the case, you cannot lose, you have some kind of mission to save or destroy the whole world. This has long been disconnected with understanding the world, with rational moves. But he knows, and he keeps repeating it all the time, that he has a trump card and this is a nuclear trump card. And, of course, he will somehow play it. How? We dont know. On Sept. 30, it was obvious that a parallel reality was being created for him, that he was the only person in the St. George's Hall who was happy with what was happening. People were driven to the square, where, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, there were 180,000 people they were brought in on hundreds of buses. Those who create this virtual reality for Putin, what is their interested in it? That's a very good question, as is who is the one who delivers information to the chief. But I do not know. I don't really care what kind of reality they create for him. Its important that they are still trying to create this reality not for Putin, but for the nation. Putin is in a dangerous situation in the sense that propaganda and public opinion play a strange role in all dictatorships, including Russia. Of course, there is no choice. But one of the signs that he is a Tsar is that he can force the people to repeat the thesis that the government puts forward. This shows that you are in control of the situation in the field of propaganda. And if you start to lose it (and in the last couple of weeks he has started to lose a lot), then it shows that you are incompetent. Your real enemies that are around you start to think that you are weak, and this is dangerous. It was very important, after this farce of the last two weeks, to show that he was in control. And that show is all about it. It's about "I'm in control, Im on top of everyone, everyone has to bow down, stop resisting." This is a very important indicator.I dont know who builds reality for him and whether he believes in reality, or has gone into mysticism. You continue to research Russian propaganda. In that article in the Guardian, you wrote that indeed all these years, Putin's propaganda was aimed at demobilization - "just sit in front of the TV, enjoy it, we won't touch you." Now the opposite has happened - the so-called partial mobilization. And at the same time, we understand that Putin is already trying to promote the concept that this is not a "special military operation", but some kind of "great patriotic war to protect their territories." What should Russian propaganda do to sell this idea to this passive population? Do you see how this is already happening? He started out saying it was a patriotic war for territory and now its a great holy war against the Western devil. There was not a word about Ukraine. It was only about the terrible West, how to rebuild the world and some kind of holy war against Satan. They need to switch from propaganda that was built on passivity to classic mobilization-related propaganda. I don't think they will succeed, for many reasons. They always had problems with mobilization. Putin really wants to be a fascist, but he is such a two-way fascist. Not in terms of cruelty with cruelty, he succeeds. I mean in terms of motivation. The Nazis still knew how to make large crowds, where people had rapture. Putin has never had this he always had to bring in crowds by bus. We dont know his military strategy. If its idea is to switch to a nuclear war and start this confrontation as soon as possible, then it doesn't matter who comes to the front. If this society isto be militarized (for total war, as Goebbels meant it), then they will be in trouble. Four states abstained from voting in the UN Security Council to condemn the Russian annexation of the territories of Ukraine China, Brazil, India and Gabon. Can Putin's calculations be directed to the fact that there is still a large part of the world that will stay with Russia? Yes, you are right. And these narratives of his are very old from the Soviet Union, from the Cold War. In a huge part of the world in Africa, Latin America, and at some points in South Asia these are old narratives that the greatest evil is the West, and Russia is a liberating force, or at least a balance. Ukraine should work together with its allies, to precisely go through the countries and figure out where it is possible to fight this. Maybe there are some countries that have romanticism towards Russia. Cuba, maybe, I don't know. But in reality, this is a very pragmatic relationship, when it is believed that Russia is a balance of America and China. And Russia has positioned itself quite successfully for the last 20 years as a supplier of weapons, propaganda, and energy; as such a stable partner who will help, mostly dictatorships, but not only, to balance some power. You need to understand what these countries want and what interests them, and most importantly, send a message that Russia is not a stable partner, but a crazy, poor, incompetent, dangerous, toxic country. And then, I think that some countries will retreat very quickly. Its already clear that something is changing in Latin America. We need to work on this, and I know that Ukraine is doing a very good job. Its very important that the allies help. You need to understand which ally can help with which country. And then we can start winning even in this arena. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine AFP Former US president Donald Trump complained about the Justice Department's criminal investigation into the handling of classified documents recovered from his Florida estate, claiming during a rally that several of his predecessors personally took files to unsecured locations. This is inaccurate; the records of the presidents Trump named were transported and sorted in secure temporary facilities by the federal agency responsible for preserving government documents -- not the politicians themselv You are here: Business Assets under the management of China's public offering funds reached 27.29 trillion yuan (about 3.84 trillion U.S. dollars) by the end of August, data from the Asset Management Association of China showed. The figure was 231.9 billion yuan higher than the end of July, according to the association, an industry body supervised by China's securities regulator. As of the end of August, a total of 10,262 public offering funds were operated by 140 fund management companies, the association said. In breakdown, the scale of closed-ended funds reached nearly 3.25 trillion yuan, while open-ended funds stood at about 24.04 trillion yuan, the data showed. Of the 140 fund management companies, 45 are foreign-funded while 95 are domestic firms, the association said. Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2014. Photo by Sasha Mordovets/Getty Images Recent Nord Stream pipeline ruptures were likely acts of Russian sabotage, according to experts. Andrea Kendall-Taylor, a former senior intelligence officer, told Insider such sabotage is likely to continue. The more "degraded" Russia's military is, the more likely it is to use non-conventional tools, Kendall-Taylor said. There's been a lot of finger pointing in the wake of several ecologically damaging gas leaks that abruptly sprang last week in the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines running from Russia to Europe. Western leaders and officials, including President Joe Biden and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, have suggested the ruptures were a product of sabotage. Sweden, Denmark, and Germany have all opened investigations into the leaks, which scientists said were likely induced by underwater explosions so large they were detected on the Richter scale. Meanwhile, Moscow baselessly accused the US of being behind the pipeline leaks an allegation the Biden administration swiftly rejected. Russia watchers and intelligence experts say the ruptures were probably a product of Russian operations and designed to send a message to the West about Russia's still worrisome capabilities, while warning that Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely to order more acts of hybrid warfare as his forces struggle in Ukraine and Western countries continue to support Kyiv. Former CIA Director John Brennan last Wednesday told CNN that Russia is the "most likely suspect" and the apparent sabotage was meant to "signal to Europe that Russia could reach beyond Ukraine's borders." "This might be a sign that Russia is intent on doing whatever it believes it needs to do in order to weaken a European resolve," Brennan said, adding, "This just might be the first salvo of some additional things that might be coming toward Europe." Andrea Kendall-Taylor, a former US senior intelligence officer who led strategic analysis on Russia for the National Intelligence Council from 2015 to 2018, told Insider she believes the leaks were a result of "intentional" sabotage "executed by Russia." Story continues The pipelines, which were not operational when the ruptures occurred and have stopped leaking, are mostly owned by the Russian state-controlled energy company Gazprom. Russia's influence over Europe's energy supply has been a constant point of concern since the Ukraine war began in late February. The EU has been scrambling to find gas supplies for winter as it moves to curb its dependence on Russian energy. The pipeline ruptures caused already sky-high gas prices to go up, and also raised a number of environmental concerns. Kendall-Taylor said that there were a number of motivations for Russia to carry out sabotage like this, with Moscow looking for an "immediate" way to "increase the pain directly on Europe." There's also a "broader play, which is Russia signaling to the West that it has a whole suite of non-conventional tools that it can use to be disruptive and to increase the pain so long as the support for Ukraine continues," Kendall-Taylor said, describing these leaks as a "warning shot" from the Kremlin. "It was a relatively inexpensive way to send a very informative signal to the West. Should we expect these things to continue? Absolutely," Kendall-Taylor added, underscoring that Russia's struggles on the battlefield in Ukraine are directly tied to this. Danish Defence Command The more "degraded Russia is in terms of its conventional military, the more it will double down and rely on non-conventional tools," Kendall-Taylor said, which include cyberwarfare, chemical weapons, biological weapons, even tactical nuclear weapons but also "acts of sabotage like this." "They don't have many options other than these kind of non-conventional tools. That's where the threat is likely to grow in the coming months and years," Kendall-Taylor said. With Russia struggling with manpower and equipment issues in Ukraine and Russian forces losing ground in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensives there's an evolving debate over whether Putin would get desperate enough to use tactical nuclear weapons in an effort to turn the tide. Kendall-Taylor said that the risks of Russia using such a weapon the near-term are "still low," while adding that Putin's recent decision to annex Ukrainian territory "increased those risks." Prior to Putin's speech announcing the annexations last week, during which he claimed that "Anglo Saxons" were responsible for the pipeline "blasts," Russian state news was zeroed in on blaming the US for the Nord Stream leaks. "This argument is specious, part of a very well orchestrated international propaganda campaign, but designed to fuel anti-Western, anti-US rhetoric inside Russia and in other regions more suspicious of US agency in the world like India and Africa," Cynthia Hooper, a history professor and Russia expert at the College of the Holy Cross, told Insider. "These developments, to me, suggest that we are will see two trends going forward: Russia's use of covert forms of escalation which authorities can deny responsibility for and try to blame on Western or specifically US/Ukrainian actors, and an increasingly high level of coordination between military/espionage and propaganda operations," Hooper said. Read the original article on Business Insider Sacheen Littlefeather, the Native American actor and activist who declined Marlon Brandos Oscar, has died. The news was announced by the Academy of Motion Pictures, who wrote on Twitter: Sacheen Littlefeather, Native American civil rights activist who famously declined Marlon Brandos 1973 Best Actor Academy Award, dies at 75. The actor and activist first announced she had been diagnosed with metastasized breast cancer in a 2021 Facebook post. In September, at a ceremony titled An Evening with Sacheen Littlefeather, she told the crowd: Im crossing over soon to the spirit world/ And you know, Im not afraid to die. Because we come from a we/us/our society. We dont come from a me/I/myself society. And we learn to give away from a very young age. When we are honoured, we give. Littlefeather was blacklisted from Hollywood after gracing the Oscars stage on Brandos behalf when he won Best Actor for The Godfather in 1973. In a powerful speech, Littlefeather rejected the trophy as part of the actors protest of Hollywoods depictions of Native American people The gesture was also intended to highlight the events at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, where a massacre of Native Americans took place in 1890, and where protests were ongoing. At the time, her remarks were met with some sounds of support, but se also receivied boos from several actors, including John Wayne, who disagreed with her taking a political stand at the ceremony. Earlier this year, 49 years after the event, the Academy issued Littlefeather with an apology. In response, the actor expressed happiness that her mistreatment had ginally been acknowledged, stating: This is a dream come true. It is profoundly heartening to see how much has changed since I did not accept the Academy Award 50 years ago. I am so proud of each and every person who will appear on stage. Sacheen Littlefeather has died, aged 75 (Frederick M Brown/Getty) The acting career of Littlefeather, who starred in films The Laughing Policeman, The Trial of Billy Jack and Johnny Firecloud, swiftly came to an end following her Oscars appearance. Her last role was in 1978s Shoot the Sun Down. Save the Duck has landed in the U.S. The Italian sustainable outerwear brand opens its first store in America Monday at 496 Broadway between Spring and Broome Streets in SoHo. It joins six other stores around the world four in its home country as well as two in Asia and is the first of many the brand plans to open over the next several years. More from WWD The New York City store will be the largest in the fleet at 1,500 square feet the others are half that size and will carry mens, womens and childrens outerwear as well as the lifestyle collections. The stores assortment is centered around its outerwear made from Plumtech, a padding created from polyester fiber that mimics the fluffiness of down and is breathable, quick-drying and warm. Although outerwear still represents the bulk of the brands business, it offers sportswear as well, as the company moves toward becoming a four-season lifestyle brand. Some 80 percent of the fall collection is outerwear and 20 percent is sportswear, a mix that changes to 50-50 in the warmer months. Like its apparel offering, the stores design showcases the companys commitment to environmentally friendly materials. The track LED lighting is made from recycled plastic that was extruded at a high temperature from a bespoke mold and treated with nontoxic varnish, while display platforms and counters are finished with a layer of natural rubber. Save The Duck Prices are also sharp when compared to the other outerwear specialists like Canada Goose and Moncler, with jackets starting at $195 and topping out at $795, more in line with a collection such as The North Face, whose products are more geared to the outdoors than the city streets. This has been a very important year for us, since were expanding in strategic new regions, as well as strengthening our presence in the markets where were already present, said chief executive officer Nicolas Bargi. Im excited about the New York opening since it will be our first flagship in the USA, which is a key market for us. Our aim, in the medium-long term, is to accelerate our growth, reinforce the brand identity and its awareness globally. We also opened a 3,000-square-foot showroom overseeing Bryant Park last year. This will also showcase brand extensions as we launch them. Story continues Nicolas Bargi Save the Duck opened a showroom on 40th Street last November to serve its wholesale clients and ready its retail push into the U.S. America currently represents about 25 percent of Save the Ducks annual sales, which are expected to hit 65 million euros this year. It is the companys largest export market along with Germany, Bargi said, and is growing in the double digits. Looking ahead, he expects the U.S. to perform better than the rest of the world as the customers here continue to embrace the brands sustainability message. It was this that prompted Bargi to make such a large investment in SoHo, he said. SoHo went down for a while, but its coming back and Im sure we will do well. Save the Duck sells at 250 retailers in the U.S., according to Loris Spadaccini, U.S. president, representing some 650 to 700 doors. Its biggest customers are Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales, but it also has a strong representation among independent specialty stores. Although wholesale continues to represent the largest percentage of the companys business, Spadaccini said Save the Ducks own retail will be an important part of the business going forward. We expect to have 50 stores globally within two to three years, he said, and 15 of them will be in the U.S. The brand traces its roots to 1914 when Foresto Bargi, Nicolas Bargis father, created the Forest Clothing Co. When that business fell on hard times, Nicolas Bargi relaunched the business as Save the Duck with a mission of sustainability and animal rights preservation. The company has the distinction of being the first Italian fashion company to obtain B Corp status, in July 2019. The U.S. showroom overlooks Bryant Park. Robert Deitchler Over the years, Nocolas Bargi brought on several outside investors who helped the company increase its sales and distribution among customers who embrace the brands message to save ducks from being killed for the creation of down jackets. In April, Reinold Geiger, executive director and chairman of Swiss beauty company LOccitane Group, and Andre J. Hoffmann, its CEO, raised their stakes in the brand through their personal investment vehicles Societe DInvestissements Cime S.A. and Anatra Investments Ltd. They now own 80 percent while Bargi owns the remainder. ProFootball Talk on NBC Sports The Rams and running back Cam Akers are careening toward a divorce. Its still unclear what sparked the rift. However, it resulted in the Rams asking Akers to stay home twice this week. Per a league source, the Rams asked Akers to not come to the facility on Thursday and Friday. Akers could have insisted [more] There's a terrifying twist at the end of photographer Breanna Caldwell's latest photo series. The Chesterton, Indiana mom is going viral for a spooky set of images she captured of her 4-year-old daughter, Maci, having a tea party with "Halloween" villain Michael Myers. Indiana photographer Breanna Caldwell is going viral for a photo series featuring her daughter, Maci, 4, and In the chilling images, a friend dressed up as the fictional slasher film character watches little Maci having a tea party from the woods surrounding her yard. The girl, dressed in a white party dress and looking sweet and innocent, notices Myers lurking and invites him to sit at her tea table. Like in any good horror film story line, just when the images lull the viewer into a false sense of security, the slashing begins. The series shows little Maci inviting Myers to her tea party, but there's a twist. (Breanna Marie Photography) The killer isn't Myers, however, it's little Maci, who takes the antagonist of the "Halloween" franchise by the hand, leads him into the woods and stabs him, covering her white dress in blood and stealing Myers' iconic mask. It's pure Halloween magic. And, despite criticism from some social media users, Caldwell says the shoot was just a fun activity she did with her daughter to celebrate her recent birthday. After luring Myers to her tea party, Maci takes him into the woods to kill him. (Breanna Marie Photography) "(People said) now, is she going to be a serial killer or end up needing a therapist because this has traumatized her," Caldwell, whose post containing the images has been shared nearly 250,000 times on Facebook, told TODAY Parents. "Well, for everyone that can see the session, she is not traumatized nor will she grow up to be a serial killer." Caldwell says she introduced Maci to the friend who dressed up as Myers in advance, both with his mask on and off. "She wasn't scared one bit and I walked her through the entire session," said Caldwell. When Maci's tea party ends, the 4-year-old is covered in Myers' blood and has stolen his iconic mask. (Breanna Marie Photography) When she isn't slaying masked killers, Caldwell says little Maci loves playing dress up, singing and dancing and watching her favorite movie, "Lilo and Stitch." "She is a very smart, beautiful and perfect little model," said the 25-year-old single mom, adding that she loved sharing some Halloween magic with her daughter. "Halloween is my absolute favorite and I honestly wish it was just more than one day." This story was originally published in September 2020. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Oath Keepers founder Elmer Stewart Rhodes Susan Walsh/AP An FBI agent was the first witness called at the seditious conspiracy trial of Oath Keepers members. FBI agent Michael Palian recalled the "chaotic" scene and difficulty breathing from tear gas. Palian reviewed a text message in which one Oath Keeper said he'd go on a "killing spree." On the morning of January 6, 2021, Michael Palian went to work as an FBI agent assigned to a task force investigating health care fraud. Then a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol. That afternoon, he was among the FBI agents who rushed to the Capitol to guard senators who had gathered earlier in the day to certify now-President Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 election. On Monday, federal prosecutors called Palian as the first witness in the seditious trial of Oath Keepers founder Elmer Stewart Rhodes and four others charged with plotting to violently prevent the peaceful handoff of power on January 6. From the witness stand, Palian recalled the chaos of that day. "I think 'shock' would be the best word to describe what the senators were feeling at that point. There was some crying. Everybody was running around," Palian testified. Palian said he later joined other FBI agents in escorting senators back to the chamber to resume the counting of electoral votes. When asked to generally describe the route taken with senators, Palian said, "It was underground." Inside the Capitol, Palian said it was hard to breathe from the tear gas and other chemical irritants lingering in the air. "It was chaotic. It looked like a bomb had gone off in there," Palian said. At a previous trial, the Justice Department confirmed through the questioning of a Secret Service inspector that then-Vice President Mike Pence hid in an underground loading dock at the Capitol as the pro-Trump mob converged on the building. But Palian's testimony provided a rare glimpse into law enforcement's interactions with lawmakers who had been rushed to safety on January 6. Palian took the witness stand after a prosecutor and defense lawyers delivered opening arguments at the trial of Rhodes and four other members or affiliates of the Oath Keepers, a far-right group accused of developing a sophisticated plan to forcibly disrupt the certification of Biden's defeat of Trump. Story continues In a more than hour-long opening statement, prosecutor Jeffrey Nestler said Rhodes and the four others Thomas Caldwell; Kelly Meggs; Kenneth Harrelson; and Jessica Watkins "concocted a plan for an armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy" the peaceful transfer of power. Nestler displayed video footage of Oath Keepers forming a military-style "stack" formation as they pushed through the pro-Trump mob in tactical gear. In preparation for January 6, Nestler said, Rhodes and his fellow Oath Keepers gathered "weapons of war" and brought them to a hotel room outside Washington, DC, where a so-called "quick reaction force" stood ready to ferry them to the nation's capital. While the quick-reaction force never jumped into action, Nestler said it was central to the Oath Keepers' plot. Nestler pointed to an audio recording from January 10, days after the Capitol attack, in which Rhodes said: "My only regret is that they should have brought rifles We could have fixed it right then and there." With Palian on the stand, prosecutors sought to further underscore the Oath Keepers' appetite for violence on January 6. Palian reviewed a text message conversation between Meggs and his wife on Election Day in 2020. "I'm going to go on a killing spree," Meggs texted his wife. "Pelosi first." Palian also reviewed video footage of Meggs in the single-file "stack" formation that cut through the pro-Trump mob en route to the Capitol on January 6. On Meggs' sleeve was a patch emblazoned with text: "I dont believe in anything. I'm just here for the violence." Read the original article on Business Insider SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea conducted its longest-ever weapons test Tuesday, a nuclear-capable ballistic missile that flew over Japan and could reach the U.S. Pacific territory of Guam and beyond, forcing the Japanese government to issue evacuation alerts and halt trains. The South Korean and U.S. militaries responded by launching fighter jets that fired weapons at a target off South Korea's west coast in a show of strength against North Korea. The North Korean missile launch was its most provocative weapons demonstration this year, as it pushes to develop a fully fledged nuclear arsenal capable of threatening the U.S. mainland and its allies with the goal of wresting concessions from those countries, some experts say. The United States, Britain, France, Albania, Norway and Ireland called for an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council. Diplomats said it is likely to be held Wednesday, but it's not certain whether it will be open or closed. North Korea has test-fired about 40 missiles over about 20 different launch events this year as its leader, Kim Jong Un, refuses to return to nuclear diplomacy with the United States. The United States strongly condemned North Koreas dangerous and reckless decision to launch what it described as a long-range ballistic missile over Japan. The United States will continue its efforts to limit (North Koreas) ability to advance its prohibited ballistic missile and weapons of mass destruction programs, including with allies and U.N. partners, National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement. South Korea and Japan earlier said the missile had an intermediate or longer range. If the launch involved a long-range missile, it could be a test of a weapon capable of targeting the U.S. homeland, some experts say. The launch is the fifth round of weapons tests by North Korea in the past 10 days. The testing spree is an apparent response to two sets of military drills one between Washington and Seoul and the other involving Washington, Seoul and Tokyo off the Korean Peninsulas east coast last week. Story continues North Korea regards such drills involving the United States as an invasion rehearsal. It was expected to react strongly this time because both exercises involved a U.S. aircraft carrier, which North Korea views as more provocative. Japanese authorities alerted residents in its northeastern regions to evacuate to shelters, in the first J-alert since 2017 when North Korea fired an intermediate-range Hwasong-12 missile twice over Japan in a span of weeks during a previous run of weapons tests. Trains were suspended in the Hokkaido and Aomori regions until the government issued a notice that the North Korean missile appeared to have landed in the Pacific. In Sapporo city, the prefectural capital of Japans northernmost main island of Hokkaido, subways were also temporarily halted, with stations packed with morning commuters. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters the launch is a reckless act and I strongly condemn it. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said North Koreas reckless nuclear provocations would meet a stern response from the South and the broader international community. His military separately warned that North Koreas repeated missile launches would deepen its international isolation and prompt Seoul and Washington to bolster their deterrence capacities. Later Tuesday, four U.S. F-16 fighter jets and four South Korean F-15s conducted a joint strike drill in which one of the South Korean planes fired two precision-guided Joint Direct Attack Munition bombs into an island target. The exercise was aimed at demonstrating the allies ability to accurately strike North Korean targets with overwhelming force, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said. According to South Korean and Japanese estimates, the North Korean missile fired from its northern province bordering China traveled 4,500-4,600 kilometers (2,800-2,860 miles) at a maximum altitude of 970-1,000 kilometers (600-620 miles). Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said that it landed in the Pacific about 3,200 kilometers (1,990 miles) off the northern Japanese coast and that there were no reports of damage to Japanese aircraft or ships. South Koreas Defense Ministry said the missile flew farther than any other weapon fired by North Korea. Before Tuesdays launch, the 3,700-kilometer (2,300-mile) flight of a Hwasong-12 in 2017 was North Koreas longest. It has previously tested intercontinental ballistic missiles at steep angles so they flew shorter distances to avoid neighboring countries. The missiles flight distance shows it has enough range to hit Guam, home to U.S. military bases that have sent advanced warplanes to the Korean Peninsula in shows of force during past periods of tension with North Korea. In 2017, North Korea threatened to make an enveloping fire near Guam with Hwasong-12 missiles amid rising animosities with the then-Trump administration. North Korea last test-fired a Hwasong-12 missile in January. At the time, it said the launch was meant to verify the overall accuracy of the weapon. Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute, said Tuesdays launch of a suspected Hwasong-12 missile would demonstrate a capacity that truly places Guam within striking distance. He said North Korea likely wanted to confirm the missiles operational capabilities as it is being mass-produced. Kim Dong-yub, a professor at Seouls University of North Korean Studies, said North Korea could have tested the Hwasong-12 again, or even an intercontinental ballistic missile, closer to what would be a normal ballistic trajectory but shorter than its full range. If it was an ICBM, the purpose of the launch would be to test whether the warhead could survive the harsh conditions of atmospheric reentry, Kim said. The missiles fired during the past four rounds of launches were short range and fell in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. Those missiles are capable of hitting targets in South Korea. Heo Tae-keun, South Koreas deputy minister of national defense policy, told lawmakers Tuesday that North Korea is preparing to test a new liquid-fueled ICBM and a submarine-launched ballistic missile, as well. He said North Korea also maintains a readiness to conduct a nuclear test in what would be its first such bomb detonation in five years and its seventh in total. Last month, North Korea adopted a new law authorizing the preemptive use of nuclear weapons in some cases, a move that showed its increasingly aggressive nuclear doctrine. Saturday, Yoon warned of a resolute, overwhelming response from South Korean and U.S. militaries if North Korea uses nuclear weapons. Some foreign experts say North Korea needs to master a few remaining technologies to acquire functioning nuclear-armed missiles. Each new test pushes it closer to being able to reach the U.S. mainland and its allies with a host of missiles of varying range. Some experts say North Korean leader Kim will eventually will return to diplomatic talks and use his enlarged arsenal to pressure Washington to accept his country as a nuclear state, a recognition he thinks is necessary to win the lifting of international sanctions and other concessions. ___ Yamaguchi reported from Tokyo. ___ More AP Asia-Pacific coverage is available at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific By Sonali Paul MELBOURNE (Reuters) -Singapore Telecommunications said on Monday it was assessing the potential cost of a massive cybersecurity breach at its Optus arm, Australia's second-largest telco, 12 days ago. In its second comment on the breach of private data from 10 million accounts, Singtel sought to clarify reports it could face a huge compensation bill. It said it had not received any legal notice of a class action lawsuit but has engaged lawyers to advise it. "Any class action will be vigorously defended, if commenced," Singtel said in a statement. The Australian government has blamed Optus for the breach, which affected the equivalent of 40% of Australia's population, saying customers were exposed to financial crime and pressing the company to do more to notify those affected. Last week, an unidentified person posted online that they had released personal details of 10,000 Optus customers. "Singtel is continuing to evaluate the potential financial implications arising from this matter and any material development will be disclosed to the market on a timely basis," the company said. At least two major law firms, Slater & Gordon and Maurice Blackburn, have said they are investigating a possible class action against Optus to seek compensation for people affected by the breach. Optus on Monday said it had appointed Deloitte to run an independent external review of the cyberattack. "While our overwhelming focus remains on protecting our customers and minimising the harm that might come from the theft of their information, we are determined to find out what went wrong," Optus Chief Executive Officer Kelly Bayer Rosmarin said in a statement released by Singtel. Of the 10 million accounts that were breached, 2.1 million customers had had an identity document number exposed where they may need to take action to replace documents, she said in a video message on the company's web site late on Monday. Story continues She said the 10,000 people whose data had briefly been released online had all been informed by the company, and it was working closely with the police to protect them. "To our knowledge, there is no other release of the information of the customers that have been exposed," Bayer Rosmarin said. In comments to the Sydney Morning Herald, she said it was too early to describe the nature of the attack, which Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil described as "basic" rather than sophisticated. "There has been no review and no report on the nature of what has occurred," Bayer Rosmarin was quoted as telling the newspaper. (Reporting by Sonali Paul; Editing by Gerry Doyle) Hurricane Ian's impact on southwest Florida has been nothing short of devastating. But even as millions lost power, had their homes destroyed and were left in total disarray, one small community managed to get through relatively unscathed. The community is known as Babcock Ranch, situated just 20 minutes away from downtown Fort Myers, an area among those hit hardest by the storm. The community calls itself "the world's first solar-powered town." But what makes life so different for the roughly 4,600 residents? It was built on the basis of sustainability for a future of survival. "When storms take aim at southwest Florida and evacuation orders are issued, residents of Babcock Ranch are at a distinct advantage," a representative for the community, Lisa Hall, told CBS News. "Storm safety and resiliency has been factored into every element of design and engineering of the town." Babcock Ranch rests on higher ground than much of the surrounding area at least 25 feet or more above sea level which the ranch says is "beyond the reach of coastal storm surge." All of the buildings and structures in the community are developed to withstand winds of up to 145 mph, or what would be a mid-range Category 4 hurricane according to the Saffir-Simpson scale. Even the plants are able to withstand storms the community relies on native flora that is generally better able to handle Florida's extreme weather and also reduce storm runoff and flooding. On Thursday, Gov. Ron DeSantis said that there were more than 2 million reported power outages in southwest Florida. Lee and Charlotte counties, "are basically off the grid at this point," he said that morning. But Babcock, located in Charlotte County, was the exception. It's 100% solar-based, with 150 megawatts of its power generated by nearby Florida Power & Light solar facilities. Having this system in place prevented the community from losing power while most of the nearby areas were without it for days. Story continues The solar panels held up "nothing short of amazing," Hall told CBS News. That power even helped keep a storm shelter open that wasn't even expected to be used because of the delayed delivery of a generator. But at the last minute, the shelter was opened, and according to Hall "was soon the only shelter in the region that still had power." FPL still has to assess the solar field, but she said that this is actually the second time that field has been tested and proven to be resilient. It was also challenged when the eye of Hurricane Irma passed over the area in 2017. "Out of 343,000 solar panels spanning 440 acres none of them were dislodged, and only two panels had to be replaced due to damage from flying debris," she said of the solar field's success during Irma. Since then, solar generation in the community has doubled. It now has nearly 700,000 solar panels across about 900 acres. As people in many of the surrounding areas were forced to boil water because of rampant flooding, Babcock did not. The community has its own water and wastewater plants, with all of the water coming from wells that tap into a deep aquifer, Hall said. In fact, the damage was minimal. Power and the internet never even went out. Some people had their screened pool enclosures torn up, downed trees, broken fences and signs, and roofs that lost a few shingles, but the community was otherwise unharmed, Hall said. "I think the feeling for most people is surreal - and amazing blessed," Hall said. "They were told that Babcock Ranch was built to stand up to storms - but you never really know for sure until you see how everything performs when a storm comes. Ian put it to an extreme test." This community, which didn't have its first residents until 2018, proved it was built for climate resiliency and such an endeavor could not come at a more critical time. And Babcock Ranch is only growing. It's expected to have an eventual population of 50,000, as well as 6 million square feet of commercial space. Hurricanes are only expected to get stronger and more quickly because of climate change. As the planet warms, so do the oceans. And warmer oceans fuel stronger storms. "Warming sea-surface temperatures are playing a role, since they provide fuel for hurricanes, which also rely on a moist and unstable atmosphere all of which are becoming more conducive for strengthening hurricanes in our changing climate," Richard Knabb, a meteorologist and director of NOAA's National Hurricane Center in Miami, previously told CBS News. Now, with so many in nearby communities still reeling from the hurricane, which has killed dozens, Babcock Ranch residents are working on helping those who were not as lucky. They're working on acquiring and donating mattresses and bedding, clothing and food to hurricane victims. Many. have also opened their homes for power line workers to shower and wash their clothes in between shifts. "It [is] a constant outpouring of support from Babcock Ranch residents who know how incredibly fortunate they are to have homes and community still intact," Hall said. What to expect from the Supreme Court's new term Ukrainian troops push back Russian forces Scholarship helps teens overcome challenges Twenty-four-year-old Nantapong Nuchanet has been expecting to drive a train that runs fast and steady in his home country Thailand. As the construction of the China-Thailand railway continues apace, he feels getting closer to his dream job. Nantapong now works as a translator at the first-phase project of the China-Thailand railway that is to link the Thai capital of Bangkok with Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeastern Thailand. "I've achieved a small goal by doing a job related to the high-speed railway," he said. Nantapong considers himself a lucky man -- he learned the Chinese language because of his interest in Chinese culture and technology, which won him a chance to study in China. In 2016, Nantapong attended an exam held by the Maritime Silk Road Confucius Institute and attained a scholarship for a three-year program at Tianjin Railway Technical and Vocational College in the northern Chinese city of Tianjin, where he chose to learn high-speed train operation and maintenance. After graduation in 2019, he got a job at the China-Thailand railway project. "When I studied in China, I used to take the Beijing-Tianjin high-speed train. It ran really fast and steady. I hope Thailand would also have the high-speed railway and I could drive such a train after the China-Thailand railway starts operation," he said. "It (China-Thailand railway) will link to China in the future," Nantapong said, expecting to take the train and travel all the way to Tianjin and to the tourist city of Guilin in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The China-Thailand railway, an important part of the trans-Asian railway network, will be Thailand's first standard-gauge high-speed railway. When completed, the line will carry trains from Bangkok to the border town of Nong Khai, where a bridge will connect it with the China-Laos railway, making it possible to travel by train from Bangkok, through Laos, to Kunming in southwest China's Yunnan Province. Analysts said the China-Thailand railway, once into operation, will not only inject vitality into the economic development of regions along the line in Thailand, but also push the linking-up of the pan-Asia railway network and promote regional connectivity. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi told media on July 14 that China, Laos and Thailand will take the opening of the China-Laos Railway as an opportunity to smooth the flow of goods with convenient channels, promote economy and trade with better logistics, and boost the development of industries with robust economy and trade. Efforts will be made to advance the vision of interconnected development of China, Laos and Thailand, Wang said. For Viroj Lubkritcom, a 59-year-old Thai engineer, the China-Thailand railway is more than just a physical infrastructure of connectivity, it's a project that is set to boost people-to-people bonds. Viroj has worked in the sector of project supervision for 35 years and now works at the China Railway Design Corporation (Thailand Branch), the supervision company of the first-phase China-Thailand railway project. "We've been working closely with our Chinese colleagues. By cooperating and communicating with them, we have gained a lot of experiences, both in terms of railway construction and project management," he said. Viroj expected the project to serve as a bridge for closer personnel exchanges between Thailand and China, and a boon for tourism development. "We've seen that the China-Laos railway has boosted local tourism and logistics since it started operation. My friends and I hope the construction of the China-Thailand railway could complete as soon as possible and better connect us with our neighboring countries," he said. Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida is running for reelection in Florida. Graeme Jennings/Pool via AP Hurricane Ian devastated Florida this past week as Republican Senators voted against relief. Sen. Marco Rubio and Sen. Rick Scott also penned a letter asking for federal relief for the hurricane damage. Florida locals say they are running out of resources as they attempt to recover from the storm. Sen. Marco Rubio demonstrated this week a now-familiar Republican routine around taking federal money for hurricane relief. Hurricane Ian hit Florida as a Category 4 storm on Wednesday, leaving more than 2.5 million people without power, more than 1,100 people in need of rescue, and nearly 80 people dead, according to The New York Times. But Florida's senators, Rubio and Rick Scott, didn't vote in favor of a stopgap spending bill on Thursday that included an additional $18.8 billion allocated to FEMA spending for Hurricane Ian and other natural disasters, HuffPost reported. The bill passed, without the help of 25 Republican 'No' votes. CNN's Dana Bash on Sunday brought up how Rubio voted against Hurricane Sandy relief: "Why should other senators vote for relief for your state when you didn't vote for a package for theirs?" "It had been loaded up with a bunch of things that had nothing to do with disaster relief," Rubio replied. "I would never put out there that we should go use a disaster relief package for Florida as a way to pay for all kinds of other things people want around the country." The New York Times disproved the idea that relief went down non-Sandy-related avenues in 2017 after Republican lawmakers defended their votes against the bill. Rubio explained his position on the Hurricane Ian relief to Bash: "I will fight against it having pork in it. That's the key," he said. Still, Rubio and Scott sent a joint letter to the appropriations committee asking for Hurricane relief support on Friday. "A robust and timely federal response, including through supplemental programs and funding, will be required to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to rebuild critical infrastructure and public services capacity, and to assist our fellow Floridians in rebuilding their lives," the duo wrote. Story continues On September 24, Biden approved federal emergency aid for Florida. The federal government then "coordinated and prepositioned supplies, and more than 1,300 responders ahead of Ian's landfall to ensure resources could get where they need to be as quickly as possible," according to a Federal Emergency Management Agency press release. In a Sunday episode of ABC "This Week," Anchor Jonathan Karl asked Rubio: "How's FEMA doing? Is Florida getting everything it needs right now from the Biden Administration?" "Yeah. FEMA, they've all been great. As I've said, the federal response from day one has been very positive as it has always been in the past and we're grateful for that," Rubio replied. Floridians, meanwhile, have expressed their frustration with the hurricane and the government's response as they say resources are dwindling. (Editor's note: This article's headline previously said Sen. Rubio voted against the hurricane relief bill; it has been updated to reflect that he did not vote on the bill.) Read the original article on Business Insider The number of people dying by suicide while locked inside North Carolina prisons is at a historic high so far this year. Since Jan. 1, nine inmates have ended their lives in the prisons, an average of one a month, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Only once in the past 30 years in 2018 have North Carolina prisoners committed suicide so frequently. By another measure the percentage of inmates who die by suicide 2022 is shaping up to be even worse than 2018. Inmate advocates are alarmed. They suspect severe staff shortages inside the prisons are largely to blame. In August, about 40% of correctional officer positions were vacant, according to the state Department of Public Safety. As officers struggle to keep order in many short-staffed prisons, they have required prisoners to spend long periods alone in their cells, the advocates say. Research has found that such solitary confinement can cause and worsen mental illness. On top of that, advocates say, the staff shortages mean that many inmates have less access to mental health treatment and that prison officers cant check on inmates as frequently as they used to. This is an alarm, said Susan Pollitt, a senior attorney for the nonprofit Disability Rights North Carolina. Its got to be a wake-up call. Prison officials take many steps to prevent inmates from harming themselves, state Department of Public Safety spokesman John Bull said. They work to identify inmates who are experiencing mental health problems and provide them treatment, he said. They also place more than 2,000 inmates a year on suicide watch. The department takes this issue seriously and our mental health, medical and security staff take extensive efforts to assist offenders with mental health and self-harm issues, Bull said in a written statement. He needed help The latest victim 29-year-old Didier J. Carias, Jr. had long suffered from schizophrenia and paranoia, his parents say. Story continues They say he recently was getting treatment for those problems at a hospital when he punched a man there. As a result of that probation violation, he was sent to prison. Soon after entering Piedmont Correctional Institution in Salisbury on Aug. 25, he hit an officer and was immediately put in solitary confinement, his parents say. While there, he couldnt visit with his family or even talk with them by phone, they say. His time in solitary confinement only made his mental health problems worse, his parents suspect. On Sept. 26, just 32 days after hed entered the prison, he was found hanging by a sheet tied to a sprinkler head, his parents say. Didier Carias, pictured here in 2015, suffered from schizophrenia and paranoia. His parents question why he was put in solitary confinement, a punishment that has been shown to make many mental health problems worse. Now his parents question why a person with such severe psychological problems was placed in solitary confinement. Being alone for 30 days is a long time, his mother, Judy Carias, told the Charlotte Observer. Even a normal person would go crazy. Why did they put him in solitary? He needed help. His father, Didier Carias Sr., said he has learned that other inmates at Piedmont Correctional have also committed suicide in the same way in recent years. The Observer has confirmed that at least five other inmates at that prison have killed themselves since 2008, and that at least three of them died by hanging. We want to know why they havent done anything about it, Carias father said. State prison officials declined to discuss the cases of those who died. A state of despair and depression County jails recently saw a spike in suicides, too. At least 21 people in North Carolina jails took their own lives in 2020, a record number, according to a Disability Rights North Carolina report released this year. All but two of the suicides in state prisons this year happened inside maximum security facilities, where inmates are housed in single cells instead of dormitories. In August, the correctional officer vacancy rates in those prisons ranged from 16% to 62%. At least four of the inmates who committed suicide this year were in restrictive housing, the prison systems term for solitary confinement, state records show. About 2,500 of North Carolinas 30,000 prison inmates are currently in solitary confinement. But those officially in solitary confinement arent the only state prison inmates forced to cope with extreme isolation in recent years. During the most dangerous portion of the pandemic, before vaccines became widely available, many inmates in maximum security prisons were confined to their cells almost all day as the prisons worked to limit the spread of COVID-19. Since then, advocates say, officers in some short-staffed prisons have continued to lock down many inmates for 22 or more hours each day, even if they have not technically been placed in solitary. Those conditions have taken a toll on inmates, advocates say. I think theres a sense of helplessness, said Sandra Hardee, executive director of NC CURE, an inmate advocacy group. Weve moved into a very volatile situation. Kerwin Pittman, policy and program director for Emancipate NC, a Durham-based civil rights group, says he hears regularly from men and women locked up in state prisons who say they are suffering the effects of extreme isolation. It just leads to a state of despair and depression, he said. It forces them to stew with the reality that they are in a cage. Pittman has seen firsthand what can happen to inmates in such circumstances. During an 11-year stay in state prison, he said he spent more than 600 days in solitary confinement. Although he kept himself sane with the help of many books, he said others in the hole werent so fortunate. Ive seen a lot of people lose sight of reality and go crazy back there, he said. Inmate advocate Kerwin Pittman, shown here speaking at a press conference, says that isolation has taken a psychological toll on many N.C. prisoners. Didier Carias parents wonder whether prison had that effect on their son, too. When he was taking medication for his psychiatric problems, he was a happy young man who loved to go to church, listen to hip hop music, and spend time with his brother and 6-year-old nephew, his parents said. But when he was off his medications, he could be an entirely different person. He heard voices, his mother said, and often felt people were out to get him. Whether hed been getting his medication in the weeks before he died is unclear, his parents said. There has to be something coming out of this, his mother said. We want justice. We want no other people to go through what we are going through now. Unbearable conditions Some of the inmates who reportedly took their own lives in the state prisons this year had documented mental health problems. Among them was Marcus Robinson. In 2012, Robinson became the first North Carolina prisoner to have his sentence reduced under the states Racial Justice Act. He had been on death row, but a judge in the racial justice trial re-sentenced him to life without parole after finding that prosecutors had intentionally removed Black citizens from the jury that convicted him of murder in 1994.. While in prison, Robinson, 49, was classified as Mental Health Grade 3, the most severe psychiatric classification, due to depression and schizophrenia, according to a medical examiners report. In early June, inmates at Scotland Correctional Institution, in Laurinburg, noticed that he had not been eating and had not been socially active on his cell block, according to the report. On June 9, he was found hanging in his cell. Elizabeth Simpson, an attorney for Emancipate NC, is investigating Robinsons death. She said she has heard from multiple inmates that prisons are so short-staffed that officers frequently skip their required checks on inmates. As a result, she said, officers likely miss seeing when some prisoners are gripped by mental health crises. With more officers and more checks, she said, more inmates who are preparing to commit suicide might be caught. The conditions in which (Robinson) died are conditions that others are living in, Simpson said. And theyre very unbearable conditions. A cell block at Lanesboro Correctional Institution in 2015. Bull the prison spokesman, disputed allegations that officers have skipped checks. Correctional Officers make their rounds, as required, he wrote. After a spate of inmate suicides in 2016, state prison officials put in place a plan to prevent more inmates from taking their own lives. Among other things, the plan required that the prisons train staff members to recognize when inmates are at risk of killing themselves. It also said prisons should try to keep inmates with mental illness out of solitary confinement, a punishment that can worsen psychiatric problems. In 2017, Bull said, suicide prevention training was offered to all of the prison systems licensed behavioral health staff. And in 2018, prison officials created a suicide prevention work group to evaluate all aspects of suicide prevention. Prisons staff are dedicated to identifying offenders with mental health issues, particularly those at risk for self-harm, through comprehensive risk assessment and the implementation of a suicide watch protocol for individuals determined to be at-risk, Bull wrote. But advocates say that given the severe staff shortages, the recent deaths highlight the need to further reduce the population of the states prisons. Among those who they say should be released: elderly and disabled inmates who pose no threat to the community. Said Dawn Blagrove, executive director of Emancipate NC: They simply cant safely and securely keep as many people in cages as they are now. Stella McCartney wins gold for the most gobsmacking backstage interview setting the Atelier BrancusI at the Pompidou Center. Before speaking to journalists, she banged on the bulletproof glass protecting the priceless sculptures to try and get the attention of Jerry Seinfeld and Jeff Koons, who were similarly agog opposite her. Do you see that? Insane! Then she turned around and got right down to business, highlighting the two most important things about her spring show. First, 87 percent of the materials used for the collection were sustainable, her best achievement yet and her first time using regenerative cotton from Turkish firm Soktas. Look it up, she urged. More from WWD Second, her dad, Sir Paul McCartney, finally met luxury titan Bernard Arnault, whose LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton took a majority stake in her London-based fashion brand three years ago and appointed her as the groups sustainability adviser. The presence of Arnault, and his three eldest children, offered a chance for McCartney to show the most powerful man in fashion whats possible with mushroom leather, forest-friendly viscose, regenerated nylon, recycled polyester and without any leather, feathers or fur. He can look at all of those bags, all the shoes, all those non-leather jackets and he can compare between his other houses and see that there is no sacrifice visually, or on make or quality, she said. I have this incredible seat at the table. And I want to infiltrate from within. Nor did the designer sacrifice on fashion thrills, returning to the frisky Y2K spirit she helped define since launching her brand in 2001. One eagle-eyed editor also called up a look from her Chloe days featuring swags of gold chains draped across the torso. On a chilly Monday morning, in the slanted square in front of the museum, the chains were back, swinging under big mannish jackets paired with off-kilter skirts that trailed on one side, leaving the other leg exposed for that Stella swagger. Story continues McCartney excels at minimalist moments in fashion and her jersey dresses, pinch-waist jean jackets, low-waist pants and corset-boned jumpsuits were sleek and sexy. The simplicity reached a zenith with a white T-shirt to which she had attached an off-kilter stretch of satin for the skirt. Scuba-like tops, some bedazzled, were fronted with images of the strange, frowning children of Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara. It added up to a very blue-chip and very green morning. Launch Gallery: Stella McCartney RTW Spring 2023 Click here to read the full article. A stranger forced a woman into a car at gunpoint and sexually assaulted her in North Carolina, officials said. Now, police are hoping to identify a man they consider a suspect in the case. The search for clues started after Fayetteville officers were called to a reported sexual assault on Sunday, Oct. 2. A woman was in a parking lot on Blue Street when a car pulled up at about 12:30 a.m., according to a preliminary investigation. The suspect then flagged down the victim and pointed a silver and black in color handgun at the victim, coercing her to get into his vehicle, the Fayetteville Police Department wrote in a Facebook post. The suspect then drove the victim to the area of S. Eastern Boulevard and sexually assaulted her. After the assault, the woman was forced out of the car and went to a nearby hotel for help, according to officials. Police said the woman was randomly targeted and didnt know the man accused of sexually assaulting her. The incident was reported in Fayetteville, roughly 60 miles south of Raleigh and about 10 miles from the Fort Bragg military base. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 910-929-7504 or CrimeStoppers at 910-483-8477. People also can share details through the P3 Tips smartphone application and on fay-nccrimestoppers.org. The Fayetteville Police Department didnt immediately share additional information with McClatchy News on Oct. 3. If you have experienced sexual assault and need someone to talk to, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline for support at 1-800-656-4673 or visit the hotline's online chatroom. Teacher charged with statutory rape had student at her home after arrest, NC cops say School superintendent groped worker, then fired her for rejecting him, NC lawsuit says President Joe Biden expressed his gratitude to the Filipino American community in celebration of Filipino American History Month (FAHM) this October. On Sunday, Biden and the first lady recognized the contributions and heritage of Filipino Americans. Jill and I are proud to recognize Filipino American History Month and celebrate the innumerable contributions and rich heritage of Filipino Americans across our nation, Biden tweeted. We support, honor, and thank you for all you have done to help fulfill the promise of America for all of us. Jill and I are proud to recognize Filipino American History Month and celebrate the innumerable contributions and rich heritage of Filipino Americans across our nation. More from NextShark: Asian Deliveryman Riding a Bicycle Stabbed By Another Cyclist in Brooklyn We support, honor, and thank you for all you have done to help fulfill the promise of America for all of us. President Biden (@POTUS) October 1, 2022 More from NextShark: 'We Are Currently So Defeated': SF Korean Restaurant Has $10,000 in Valuables Taken in Burglary The statement was in line with Bidens declaration from last year. With a recorded presence in the continental United States as far back as October 1587, Filipino Americans have served our nation, defended our democracy, and fought for the promise of a more just and inclusive America, Biden previously stated. He acknowledged the contributions of Filipino Americans in World War II and the service and sacrifices of Filipino Americans frontliners during the COVID-19 pandemic. More from NextShark: Asian Women Punched, Spit on in 2 Different Attacks in Vancouver The Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) shared that this years FAHM theme is Celebrating Our History and Legacies: 50 Years of Filipino-American Studies, 40 Years of the Filipino-American National Historical Society and 30 years of Filipino-American History Month. Story continues According to FANHS, the first Filipino American studies (FAS) classes were taught at the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of California, Davis in 1972. Over the past 50 years, college-level FAS classes have been instituted at colleges and universities all over the U.S. Forty years ago, Dorothy Laigo Cordova founded the FANHS in 1982. It is reportedly the oldest national Filipino American organization committed to gathering, promoting and preserving Filipino American history. More from NextShark: NYPD launches hate crime investigation into unidentified man who spat, hurled racial slurs at Asian woman FAHM was first celebrated in the U.S. 30 years ago and has been celebrated annually since October 1992, after FANHS passed a proclamation spearheaded by Fred Cordova in 1991. In 2009, the U.S. Congress officially declared October as FAHM, citing the advancement of Filipino Americans and as a time to renew efforts toward the examination of history and culture in order to provide an opportunity for all people in the US to learn more about Filipino Americans and their historic contributions to the Nation. FAHNS, a volunteer-run organization, has a national office and National Pinoy Archives in Seattle and a Filipino American National Historical Society Museum in Stockton, California. The organization encouraged Filipino Americans and allies to celebrate FAHM through activities, such as reading books and supporting arts and media that advance Filipino American studies. We kindly remind people that we emphasize HISTORY (not Heritage) during #FilipinoAmericanHistoryMonth - commemorating our struggles, resilience, and contributions to the history of the United States, FANHS wrote on Facebook. Featured Image via PBS NewsHour A view of the Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C. STEFANI REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images The Supreme Court began its new term on Monday, and started by agreeing to take up a case examining the scope of immunity granted to tech companies related to user-posted content. The case alleges that YouTube, and its parent company Google, is partially to blame for the death of an American woman during the 2015 ISIS terrorist attacks in Paris. Nohemi Gonzalez was one of 130 people killed during the attack, and the lawsuit brought by her family alleges that YouTube's algorithms "knowingly permitted ISIS to post on YouTube hundreds of radicalizing videos inciting violence," contributing to the 23-year-old's death, reports CNBC. Google has argued that it's shielded by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, a law that says internet companies cannot be held responsible for content posted by their users. However, lawyers for the Gonzalez family have argued that Section 230 does not apply when the company's own algorithms are recommending dangerous content. The family is hoping to prove that YouTube violated the Anti-Terrorism Act, which would supersede Section 230's protections. According to Bloomberg, the case will be the first time the Supreme Court will directly examine this law since it was passed in 1996. The case was one of nine that the Supreme Court agreed to take up on Monday. The White House has made its stance on the issue clear Section 230 is too wide-ranging. President Biden in September announced a slate of new "reform principles" related to tech companies, including the removal of Section 230 protections, along with requests to make privacy laws and internet algorithms more transparent. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing Ukrainian troops take full control of Lyman while Russian media ramps up recriminations Bohdan Lvov Lvov wrote that he underwent one test at the All-Ukrainian Association of Polygraph Examiners with the participation of two experts, and then another in the competent state department. Read also: Network of Russian propaganda agents busted in Lviv He answered the following questions: Have you ever had a Russian passport? "Have you personally received the passport of a Russian citizen?" Have you been on the territory of Russia in the status of a Russian citizen? Have you ever had dual citizenship of Ukraine and Russia? Have you ever become a citizen of Russia? Lvov answered No to all the questions. According to the results of the tests, which were published by the Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Court, this is "reliable information." Lvov stated that he was returning to his duties. The head of the Anti-Corruption Action Center Vitalii Shabunin said that on Oct. 3, the judges of the Cassation Economic Court should consider the dismissal of Bohdan Lvov from his post, and vote on the issue. On Sept. 15, journalists from the investigative media Schemes alleged out that Lvov had received a Russian passport in 1999. However, in 2017, during a competition for a position in court, he noted in his application form that he didnt have the citizenship of another country. Read also: Court approves arrest of former Constitutional Court head Tupytskyi, he faces extradition from Austria The investigation also says that the judge owns real estate, namely: a two-room apartment on Leningradskoye Shosse in Moscow. It is owned equally by the mother-in-law of the judge and his wife. Lvov himself denies having a Russian passport and called the allegations "fake." Later, investigative journalist from the open-source intelligence group Bellingcat Christo Grozev Lvov was registered as a Russian citizenship, and ruled out that the documents in the registers could be fake, as the judge himself had claimed. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court says it won't review the conviction of former coal CEO Don Blankenship, who was found guilty of conspiring to violate safety standards at West Virginias Upper Big Branch mine before the 2010 explosion that killed 29 men. The justices said Monday they would not take the case of the former CEO of Massey Energy who spent a year in prison following his conviction stemming from the worst U.S. coal mining disaster in 40 years. That leaves in place lower court decisions rejecting his efforts to get his misdemeanor conviction thrown out. As is typical, the high court did not explain its decision and denied the case among a long list of others. Monday is the first day of the court's new term. A federal jury in West Virginia convicted Blankenship in 2015 of conspiring to willfully violate mine safety standards but acquitted him of more serious charges. He was sentenced to a year in prison and fined $250,000. In 2019, however, a federal magistrate judge recommended that Blankenship's conviction be thrown out. The judge agreed with Blankenship that his rights were violated because prosecutors didn't turn over evidence that was favorable to him. That included FBI and Department of Labor interviews with Massey employees. A government review separately found that some material should have been turned over. A federal district judge, however, ruled that despite the prosecutions failure to disclose numerous documents, the conduct resulted in no prejudice toward Blankenship. Most of the substance of the documents that was favorable to Blankenship did come out at trial, the judge said. An appeals court also ruled against Blankenship before the Supreme Court declined to hear his case. Investigations into the Upper Big Branch mine disaster found that worn and broken cutting equipment created a spark that ignited accumulations of coal dust and methane gas. Broken and clogged water sprayers allowed what should have been a minor flare-up to become an inferno. (Bloomberg) -- Most Read from Bloomberg With so many crises going on in the world right now Hurricane Ian, suspected sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline, the war in Ukraine it can be hard to keep your eye on the long ball. But there is a hard, slow pitch headed toward the heart of the Clean Water Act, one of the most iconic and fundamental pieces of environmental legislation ever passed in the United States. The challenge comes in the form of Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency, a case that will be heard by the Supreme Court on Monday, the first day of the courts new term. The courts decision will be announced next year. The plaintiffs, Chantell and Michael Sackett, bought a parcel of land in Idaho 17 years ago and in 2007 started filling it with dirt and rock in preparation for building a house. The EPA ordered them to stop, saying the property was subject to the Clean Water Act and they needed a permit. When the agency demanded they restore the property to protect the watershed, the couple sued. The case has wound through the courts since then. The Sacketts are represented by the conservative Pacific Legal Foundation and backed by a whos who of industry groups, including the National Association of Home Builders and the American Petroleum Institute. Environmental groups fear the new conservative supermajority on the court took up this case specifically to narrow the scope of the Clean Water Act especially after its June decision in West Virginia v. EPA curbed the governments authority to regulate power-plant emissions. The Sacketts case against the EPA is less about a lake house and more about a coordinated push by industrial polluters that want to blow a hole in the law, said Sambhav Sankar, a senior vice president with Earthjustice, a legal advocacy group. Earthjustice filed an amicus brief for the government on behalf of 18 Indian tribes who say wetlands are integral to their cultures and resources. Wetlands are also a natural defense against climate change, storing copious amounts of carbon dioxide in their soil. Story continues At issue in this case is nothing less than the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). The Clean Water Act gives the federal government the right to regulate WOTUS against pollution and destruction. The Sacketts dispute that their lot is included in WOTUS. (How can you call it a wetland when its a lot in an existing subdivision that has a sewer hookup? Michael Sackett asked a Washington Post reporter in 2012.) Since the hydrology in any watershed is interconnected, the EPA looks broadly at systems when it considers what to protect. That includes lakes and rivers and visible waters, of course, but also wetlands that appear seasonally and streams that flow only in spring before drying out in late summer. Some 60% of streams in the US are ephemeral, according to the the agency. Conservatives and business groups have been pushing back on this definition of WOTUS since the laws inception. They got a break in a 2006 case, Rapanos v. EPA. That case also involved a property owner filling in a wetland with gravel without a permit. The court ruled the law covered navigable waters and those with a significant nexus to navigable waters. This forced the EPA to conduct a four-year scientific review to define a significant nexus. But critics of the law arent really interested in the science of hydrology. Conservatives see this as a property rights issue and an example of regulatory overreach, with landowners nationwide denied regulatory certainty with respect to the enjoyment of their property, in the words of an amicus brief for the Sacketts filed by the libertarian Cato Institute. They want the narrowest definition of WOTUS possible, which would be navigable waters only. When former President Trump came into office, his EPA ignored its own review and released a definition of WOTUS that no longer covered more than 50% of wetlands. A court vacated this and sent it back to the EPA again for another try. Which brings us back to Sackett. The fact that SCOTUS took the case at all especially as the EPA is in the process of rewriting guidance on significant nexus is a bad sign for the government, says Sankar. If the court decides in favor of the Sacketts, some areas that were previously protected by the law, and the wildlife that relies on their waters, would be more vulnerable to development and pollution. As the court hears arguments, Sankar said, Ill be watching to see whether the justices are paying any attention to the science of water protection, or whether the conservative justices in particular are more interested in simply drawing new lines on regulatory authority. If that is the case then the court would be saying essentially that it knows better than the EPA. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. South Koreas Supreme Court has ruled that the comfort women'' for U.S. troops in the 1940s are entitled to receive reparations from the government. The Sept. 29 decision confirmed an earlier ruling that each of the women who worked in the brothels set up for U.S.soldiers should be compensated between 3 million won and 7 million won (approximately $2,092-$4,881). The verdict also confirmed the existence of the brothels set up in U.S. military camptown in Korea 65 years ago. Known locally as gijichon, camptowns imposed state violence against the female victims. Speaking in front of the courts main gate in Seoul after the ruling, 72-year-old plaintiff Kim Suk-ja mentioned those who had passed since she and 121 other plaintiffs filed the compensation suit in 2014. The number of plaintiffs had dropped to 95, after 24 died and two withdrew from the lawsuit. More from NextShark: Donald Trump repeatedly asked if China could shoot hurricanes at US, reveal former officials I feel like I could shout with joy, Kim said before breaking into tears. I had been frustrated that the Supreme Court hadnt made any ruling in the several years since we filed the lawsuit, but now that it has finally returned a verdict today in favor of us grandmothers, I cant help but cry, she said. With each year the lawsuit went on, more of our sisters passed. I think they, too, are happy in heaven. The Camptown Womens Human Rights Coalition, which supported the plaintiffs over the years, was created in 2012 to advocate for the victims of the state-managed camptown sex trade. More from NextShark: Video captures people crashing to the ground as water slide collapses at Indonesian amusement park In 2018, an appellate court ruled in favor of the victims and acknowledged the governments responsibility. While the plaintiff and the defendant both filed immediate appeals after the ruling, it took the Supreme Court over four years to arrive at a decision. Story continues A statement from the advocates and other participants of the press conference sought an official apology for the government, a new law that helps spread awareness about the issue of the comfort women and support for the victims. Kim, who had started working as a housemaid at 12 years old, traveled to one camptown after another at 19 after learning about the opportunity to make money. She only left the camptowns when she turned 59 years old in 2009. More from NextShark: Vancouver authorities seek help identifying suspect in unprovoked attack against teen girl Women in such camptowns were forced to undergo venereal disease testing at a public health center, and those who tested positive were detained. One camp was called the Monkey House because of the way women screamed in pain and moved in the prison cages after receiving penicillin injections, as if they were monkeys trapped inside a zoo. The hardest thing was that no one helped us, Kim said. We had to defend ourselves, said Kim. More from NextShark: 32% of Americans Have Seen Asians Attacked Over COVID-19 Featured Image via Mi Kie The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government said on Sunday that it will render its full assistance and cooperation to the country's selection exercise for recruitment of payload specialists in the HKSAR. China Manned Space Agency announced on Sunday the official launch of the recruitment of the fourth batch of astronauts, and payload specialists will be selected in HKSAR and the Macao Special Administrative Region for the first time. HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee welcomed and expressed gratitude towards the recruitment and described the move as uplifting and exciting with great historical significance. "The China Manned Space Agency's recruitment of payload specialists in the HKSAR provides an opportunity for Hong Kong people to realize their space aspiration and contribute to the country," Lee said. Payload specialists are professional scientific researchers who are mainly responsible for conducting aerospace experiments or research, operating space laboratory equipment, and managing daily operations of space stations with other astronauts. According to the HKSAR government, the recruitment period for payload specialists in Hong Kong will be from Oct. 6 to 27, where the further screening will be conducted by relevant authorities in the Chinese mainland. Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field of study, have worked in the relevant industry for at least three years and be aged between 30 and 45 years old. Michael Wong, deputy financial secretary of the HKSAR government, believes that the recruitment of payload specialists in Hong Kong fully reflects the country's care for the Hong Kong people, the importance it attaches to Hong Kong's science and technology sector, as well as the support it gives to the HKSAR government. Sun Dong, secretary for innovation, technology and industry of the HKSAR government, said that aerospace is an important industry for Hong Kong in terms of industrial development, and the research teams of local universities have been actively involved in a number of national space missions. It is believed that Hong Kong's aerospace technology will contribute to Hong Kong's technological and economic development in the future, Sun said. By Andrew Chung WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a challenge to federal protections for internet and social media companies freeing them of responsibility for content posted by users in a case involving an American student fatally shot in a 2015 rampage by Islamist militants in Paris. The justices took up an appeal by the parents and other relatives of Nohemi Gonzalez, a 23-year-old woman from California who was studying in Paris, of a lower court's ruling that cleared Google LLC-owned YouTube of wrongdoing in a lawsuit seeking monetary damages that the family brought under a U.S. anti-terrorism law. Google and YouTube are part of Alphabet Inc. The Supreme Court also agreed to hear a separate appeal by Twitter Inc of the lower court's decision to revive a similar lawsuit against that company, though not on the basis of Section 230. The lawsuit against Google accused it of materially supporting terrorism in violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act, a federal law that allows Americans to recover damages related to "an act of international terrorism." The lawsuit alleged that YouTube, through computer algorithms, recommended videos by the Islamic State militant group, which claimed responsibility for the Paris attacks, to certain users. The San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2021 dismissed the lawsuit in a ruling relying largely on another law, known as Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996. Section 230, enacted before the rise of today's major social media companies, protects "interactive computer services" by ensuring they cannot be treated as the "publisher or speaker" of any information provided by other users. The lawsuit argued that such immunity should not apply when the company's platform recommends certain content via algorithms that identify and display content most likely to interest users, based on how people use the service. Story continues Section 230 has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum. Democrats have faulted it for giving social media companies a pass for spreading hate speech and misinformation. Republicans painted it as a tool for censorship of voices on the right, especially after Twitter and other platforms banned then-President Donald Trump from after a mob of his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol in a deadly riot on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump as president unsuccessfully sought its repeal. Gonzalez was among 130 people killed in Paris during the 2015 attacks that included suicide bombings and mass shootings. She was at a bistro called La Belle Equipe when militants fired on the crowd of diners. The plaintiffs said that YouTube's algorithm helped Islamic State spread its militant message by recommending to users the group's videos including those aimed at recruiting jihadist fighters, and that the company's "assistance" was a cause of the 2015 attacks. Gonzalez's family appealed the 9th Circuit ruling to the Supreme Court, noting that while algorithms may suggest benign dance videos to some, "other recommendations suggest that users look at materials inciting dangerous, criminal or self-destructive behavior." The family added that removing Section 230 protections would prompt websites to stop recommending harmful materials, while saying that allowing the immunity "denies redress to victims who could have shown that those recommendations had caused their injuries, or the deaths of their loved ones." In the case against Twitter, American family members of Nawras Alassaf, a Jordanian citizen who died in a nightclub mass shooting in 2017 in Istanbul also claimed by Islamic State, accused that social media company of violating the anti-terrorism law by failing to police the platform for Islamic State accounts or posts. The 9th Circuit in the same ruling reversed a federal judge's decision to throw out the case against Twitter, but did not assess Twitter's claim of immunity under Section 230. (Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham) The Supreme Court on Monday stepped into the politically divisive issue of whether tech companies should have immunity over problematic content posted by users, agreeing to hear a case alleging that YouTube helped aid and abet the killing of an American woman in the 2015 Islamic State terrorist attacks in Paris. The family of Nohemi Gonzalez, one of 130 people killed in a series of linked attacks carried out by the militant Muslim group, commonly known as ISIS, argued that YouTubes active role in recommending videos overcomes the liability shield for internet companies that Congress imposed in 1996 as part of the Communications Decency Act. Nohemi Gonzalez. (Cal State via Facebook) The provision, Section 230 of the act, says internet companies are not liable for content users post. It has come under heavy scrutiny from the right and the left in recent years, with conservatives claiming that companies are inappropriately censoring content and liberals saying social media companies are spreading dangerous right-wing rhetoric. The provision leaves it to companies to decide whether certain content should be removed and does not require them to be politically neutral. The stakes could be enormous, because recommendations are now the norm for online services, not just YouTube. Apps such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and Twitter long ago began to rely on recommendation engines or algorithms to decide what people see most of the time, rather than emphasize chronological feeds. NetChoice, a trade group for tech corporations, said the industry needs as much flexibility as possible to decide what to take down or leave up. Without moderation, the internet will become a content cesspool, filled with vile content of all sorts, and making it easier for things like terrorist recruitment, NetChoice counsel Chris Marchese said. In a separate move, the court said Monday it would hear a related appeal brought by Twitter about whether the company can be liable under a federal law called the Anti-Terrorism Act, which allows people to sue people or entities who aid and abet terrorist acts. The same appeals court that handled the Gonzalez case revived claims brought by relatives of Nawras Alassaf, a Jordanian citizen killed in an Islamist attack in Istanbul in 2017, who accused Twitter, Google and Facebook of aiding and abetting the spread of militant Islamic ideology, which the companies deny. The question of Section 230 immunity has not yet been addressed in that case. Story continues Twitters lawyers said in court papers that the company provides generic, widely available services to billions of users who allegedly included some supporters of ISIS and that it has regularly enforced policies preventing terrorists from using its services. The ruling in the Twitter matter will also affect the claims against Facebook and Google in the same case. Gonzalez was a 23-year-old college student studying in France when she was killed while dining at a restaurant during the wave of attacks, which also targeted the Bataclan concert hall. Her family is seeking to sue Google-owned YouTube, alleging it allowed ISIS to spread its message. The lawsuit targets YouTubes use of algorithms to suggest videos for users based on content they have previously viewed. YouTubes active role goes beyond the kind of conduct Congress intended to protect with Section 230, the familys lawyers allege. They say in court papers that the company knowingly permitted ISIS to post on YouTube hundreds of radicalizing videos inciting violence that helped it recruit supporters, some of whom then conducted terrorist attacks. YouTubes video recommendations were key to helping spread ISIS message, the lawyers say. The plaintiffs do not allege that YouTube had any direct role in the killing. Gonzalezs relatives, who filed their 2016 lawsuit in federal court in Northern California, hope to pursue claims that YouTube violated the Anti-Terrorism Act. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit, but it was revived by the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a June 2021 decision that also resolved similar cases the families of other terrorist attack victims had brought against tech companies. Googles lawyers urged the court not to hear the Gonzalez case, saying in part that the lawsuit would be likely to fail whether or not Section 230 applies. The Supreme Court has previously declined to take up cases about Section 230. Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas has criticized it, citing tech giants market power and influence. Another related issue likely to head to the Supreme Court concerns a law Republicans enacted in Texas that seeks to prevent social media companies from barring users who make inflammatory political comments. On Sept. 16, a federal appeals court upheld the law, which the Supreme Court prevented in May from going into effect. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The Supreme Court on Monday weighed whether to limit the scope of the countrys clean water regulations in a case that could have a far-reaching impact on the nations water quality. The fairly technical argument, which dealt with the Clean Water Acts regulatory reach over wetlands, did not clearly telegraph how the court would rule. Its most conservative and liberal members appeared to stake out opposite ends of the debate, however, while several other justices seemed more difficult to read. The case stems from a 2007 property dispute, in which Idaho landowners Michael and Chantell Sackett were told they needed a federal permit to build a home on land they owned because it supposedly contained regulated wetlands. Now, 15 years later, the couple is arguing that the way that the federal government views regulated wetlands is too broad. The case will determine when wetlands are and are not subject to federal regulations under the Clean Water Act. Environmentalists argue that it is important to protect these ecosystems when they have significant connections to other regulated bodies of water in order to prevent those bodies of water from becoming polluted. A Trump administration rule which narrowed wetland regulations reportedly would have left 51 percent of the countrys wetlands unprotected. While the court did not project a clear outcome during its questioning, the 6-3 conservative majority court has a history of looking skeptically at the federal governments claim of regulatory authority over the environment when its powers are not clearly defined by law. In the first argument of the courts new term, the three most conservative justices seemed inclined to pare back the governments environmental authority, while the courts three more liberal members appeared to favor an expansive view. Some of the other justices sent mixed signals about how they might rule in the case. Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked particularly tough questions of the Sackettss lawyer, Damien Schiff. Story continues In arguments that at times focused on when a wetland can be considered adjacent to regulated waters, he took issue with the lawyers insistence that this referred to waters that are touching rather than neighboring. Kavanaugh described neighboring as the ordinary dictionary definition of adjacent. When Schiff responded that the statute appears to be referring to waters that are touching, Kavanaugh noted that a series of previous administrations, Republican and Democrat alike, took a broader view of adjacency. Why did seven straight administrations not agree with you? he asked the lawyer. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett also appeared to ask tough questions of both sides. In her debut on the bench, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who is expected to round out the courts liberal wing, used several questions to tether the more abstract legal debate to the underlying purpose of the Clean Water Act, which turns 50 this month. She aimed a sharp line of inquiry at a lawyer for the land owners, who urged the court to narrow the governments authority over wetlands to extend only to those with a continuous surface connection to U.S. waters. You say the question is which wetlands are covered, which I agree with, she said. But I guess my question is, why would Congress draw the coverage line between abutting wetlands and neighboring wetlands when the objective of the statute is to ensure the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the nations waters? Under the current system, many polluters are also not necessarily blocked from carrying out activities in regulated waters. Instead, they may need to either apply for a permit that contains stipulations that they follow environmental safeguards, or follow existing stipulations in a general permit that gives a blanket waiver to certain activities. But environmentalists say that while pollution still occurs when permits are in place, the stipulations they offer are important for averting the worst damages. In seeking to preserve the requirement for permits to carry out activities in certain wetlands, Justice Department lawyer Brian Fletcher argued that whether protections apply can be determined by a significant nexus test. Fletcher said that this includes factors such as distance, flow, an areas hydrology and the presence of other wetlands. In a prior court decision, three of the courts conservative justices, Roberts, Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas, previously backed a separate, more stringent test that instead said that wetlands should have a continuous surface water connection. But, Schiff argued in favor of a separate test that may be even more difficult to achieve saying that waters like wetlands could also be regulated if they can support interstate commerce. The case comes at a time of heightened liberal distrust in the court, especially following its high profile decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. The court has also recently taken a conservative, deregulatory position in a case where it limited the scope of the EPAs ability to regulate power plants contribution to climate change. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court began its new term Monday with a new justice on the bench, the public back in the courtroom and a spirited debate in a case that pits environmental protections against property rights. The new member of the court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, wasted no time engaging, asking questions throughout nearly two hours of arguments in the dispute over the nation's main anti-water pollution law, the Clean Water Act. Jackson, the court's first Black female justice, seemed to be generally aligned with the court's other liberal justices in favor of Justice Department arguments to preserve the authority of the federal government to regulate wetlands under the Clean Water Act against a business-backed challenge. If Jackson was eager to show she was ready to participate, several conservative justices also provided a quick reminder of the balance of power on a court where they hold a 6-3 majority. They asked questions that were more skeptical of the regulation in a case that tests the reach of the law beyond rivers, lakes and streams. One issue in the case is how far wetlands can be from a larger body of water and still be subject to regulation. Jackson said she wanted to know why would Congress draw the coverage line between abutting wetlands and neighboring wetlands when the objective of the statute is to ensure the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nations waters?" Under an opinion written by retired Justice Anthony Kennedy in 2006, regulators can require permits before allowing development on properties that don't abut waterways as long as they prove a significant connection to the waterways. Kennedy, who retired in 2018, was in the courtroom to hear some conservative justices appear to agree with the lawyer for an Idaho couple that Kennedys opinion was vague and unworkable. Chief Justice John Roberts was unsatisfied by Justice Department lawyer Brian Fletchers explanation of how to translate Kennedys opinion into practice. Story continues What does that mean? Roberts asked at one point. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch, who once was a law clerk to Kennedy, also appeared inclined to side with Chantell and Michael Sackett, who have wanted to build a home close to Priest Lake in Idaho for 16 years and won an earlier round in their legal fight at the Supreme Court. Monday's arguments were the first time the justices were back hearing cases since issuing a landmark ruling stripping away womens constitutional protections for abortion. And for the first time in two and a half years, since the court closed in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, the public was allowed inside the courtroom, although the court is continuing to provide live audio of arguments on its website. Because of the pandemic the court is still closed to the public outside of arguments. And two justices wore masks in court Monday: Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who has diabetes and has worn a mask in court consistently during the pandemic, and Justice Elena Kagan, who the court said tested negative for COVID-19 but had been exposed to someone with the virus. A new stack of high-profile cases awaits the justices in the upcoming term. Several cases the court has agreed to hear involve race or elections or both, and the court has also agreed to hear a dispute that returns the issue of free speech and LGBTQ rights to the court. Also hanging over the justices is some unfinished business from last term: the leak of a draft of the abortion decision seven weeks before it was formally announced. Chief Justice John Roberts ordered an investigation, but the court has yet to provide an update. Jackson, for her part, has been waiting for months to fully begin her new role since being confirmed in April and sworn in when Justice Stephen Breyer retired in June. Jackson's husband, Patrick, and her parents were in the audience Monday, as were the parents of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and his wife, Ashley. Jackson joins the court at a time of declining public support for the court. Polls following the courts abortion decision have shown a sharp drop in the courts approval rating and in peoples confidence in the court as an institution. A poll over the summer found 43% of Americans saying they have hardly any confidence in the court, up from 27% earlier in the year. In addition to the abortion ruling, the court also expanded gun rights, reined in the governments ability to fight climate change and blocked a Biden administration effort to get workers at large companies vaccinated against COVID-19. This term's significant cases include a struggle over whether Alabama must draw an additional Black majority congressional district, set for arguments Tuesday, and a controversial Republican-led appeal that could dramatically change the way elections for Congress and the presidency are conducted by handing more power to state legislatures. Theres also the case of a Colorado website designer who says her religious beliefs prevent her working with same-sex couples on their weddings. Next month, the justices will hear a challenge to the consideration of race in college admissions. ___ Follow APs coverage of the Supreme Court at https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court The Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear a case in which Second Amendment activists sought to invalidate the Trump-era ban on bump stocks the latest in multiple such cases the justices have refused to take up. The lawsuit, Gun Owners of America v. Garland, initially targeted former Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker while former President Donald Trump was in office. More recently, Attorney General Merrick Garland, appointed by President Biden, was the top named defendant after taking over the lead Justice Department post. The case challenged a 2018 decision by the Justice Department under Trump to ban bump stocks. That move followed the 2017 mass shooting at a concert in Las Vegas, in which a man used rifles with bump stocks to kill 60 people and injure hundreds. Bump stocks are attachments to semi-automatic rifles which use the recoil of the weapon to slide its body forwards and backwards. This effectively allows a shooter to fire several times in rapid succession while only needing to actively squeeze the trigger once, in a manner similar to a fully automatic weapon. SUPREME COURT LOOKS AHEAD TO NEW TERM AMID UPHEAVAL, SHAKY PUBLIC CONFIDENCE "We are faithfully following President Trumps leadership by making clear that bump stocks, which turn semiautomatics into machine guns, are illegal, and we will continue to take illegal guns off of our streets," Whitaker said in a statement at the time. A federal district court sided with the government in 2019 before a three-judge panel on the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed that decision last year. In part, the appeals panel argued that federal agencies do not possess the broad authority to decide major policy issues like whether to ban a certain gun accessory like a bump stock. A subsequent decision by the entire Sixth Circuit, however, overruled the three-judge panel and reinstated the lower court's order siding with the government. Attorney General Merrick Garland was the lead named defendant on a Gun Owners of America lawsuit aiming to overturn a bump stock ban by the Justice Department. The suit initially targeted former Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker during the Trump administration. Eric Lee/Bloomberg via Getty Images Gun Owners of America then asked the Supreme Court to weigh in earlier this year. The group said the government's rule banning bump stocks is disconnected from reality. Story continues WASHINGTON POST HERALDS NEW SCOTUS TERM BY TOUTING LIBERAL JUSTICES BASHING ITS RIGHTWARD TURN "The question is whether common firearm accessories called bump stocks constitute machineguns under the statutory definition and thus are banned from private possession," Gun Owners of America said in a brief. "The answer to that question is a definitive no. A firearm equipped with a bump stock does not meet either prong of Congresss carefully-crafted and unambiguous definition of machinegun." The Biden Justice Department in its own brief, meanwhile, argued the exact opposite. "ATFs interpretation of the phrase single function of the trigger reflects the common-sense understanding of how most weapons are fired: by the shooters pull on a curved metal trigger," the Justice Department brief said. "[O]n a machinegun including a weapon equipped with a bump stock that same single pull of the trigger initiates a continuous process that fires bullets until the ammunition is exhausted." The justices declined to hear similar cases in 2020 and 2019. Fox News' Louis Casiano contributed to this report. Lucerne Valley resident Alberto Gallegos, 48, was being held Sunday on suspicions of murder and contempt of court for violating a protective order. San Bernardino County Sheriff's investigators have arrested a Lucerne Valley man for a suspected murder last Friday that marked the third fatal shooting in less than a week for the unincorporated High Desert community. Lucerne Valley resident Alberto Gallegos, 48, was held Sunday at Central Detention Center in San Bernardino on suspicions of murder with a $1 million bail, as well as contempt of court for violating a protective order with a $25,000 bail, according to county booking information. He was set to appear in Victorville Superior Court for the alleged contempt at 8:30 a.m. Monday, and in San Bernardino Superior Court for the alleged murder at 12:30 p.m. Monday. Investigators from the Sheriff's Victor Valley Station arrested Gallegos within a day of finding a man, whom the department hasn't identified because his next of kin have yet to be notified, shot dead at a home on the 31800 block of Bumpkin Road in Lucerne Valley, according to a Sheriff's release Sunday. Deputies responded to a call about the murder at 8:43 p.m. Friday. "When deputies arrived, they found a male subject who had been shot," the release stated. "Medical aid also responded and ultimately pronounced the victim deceased." Detectives from the Sheriff's special homicide detail took over the investigation and identified Gallegos as their suspect in less than a day. More news: 2 killed, 2 injured in head-on collision on Highway 138 in Phelan At about 6 p.m. Saturday, a Sheriff's SWAT team "located and detained Gallegos during a traffic stop," the release states. His booking information indicates the traffic stop took place at 655 E Third St. in San Bernardino. It was the second murder case Sheriff's investigators opened in Lucerne Valley in less than a week. The Sheriff's Department said it found two men shot dead in Planet Road and Camp Rock Road on Sept. 24: Lucerne Valley resident Homero Segundovillasenor, 30, and Hemet resident Jose Segundomoreno, 53. Story continues Investigators still haven't identified any suspect in those murders. "Regarding the other case, we have not received any additional information," a Sheriff's spokesperson told the Daily Press in an email Sunday. "When there is more information to release, an updated press release will be issued." Charlie McGee covers Californias High Desert for the Daily Press, focusing on the city of Barstow and its surrounding communities. He is also a Report for America corps member with The GroundTruth Project, an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization dedicated to supporting the next generation of journalists in the U.S. and worldwide. McGee may be reached at 760-955-5341 or cmcgee@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @bycharliemcgee. This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Suspect arrested for 3rd Lucerne Valley fatal shooting in less than 1 week Roswell police say they believe a man who stabbed a Roswell woman to death Sunday night then stepped into traffic on I-285, where he was killed. Police said they were called to a home at the Midwood Roswell Apartments on Mimosa Boulevard around 10 p.m. Police found 31-year-old Rosa Evaristo Perez dead inside the apartment with an apparent stab wound. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Family members had come to the home to check on Perezs welfare after they got apologetic and confessional messages from a person they knew. Investigators were able to identify the suspect, and set out to try to find him. Around the same time, investigators were notified by the Sandy Springs Police Department about a fatal pedestrian accident involving a man believed to be the same suspect. TRENDING STORIES: Investigators determined that the man got out of a parked car on I-285 westbound and intentionally stepped into the path of an oncoming semi-truck. He was killed at the scene. The man has not been identified. But Channel 2s Tom Jones talked to neighbors, who identified the killer as Perezs husband. Perezs son also confirmed to Jones that his father was dead. Neighbors said that Perez, who was a mother of two, complained to them that her husband was abusive and refused to work, and that she was fed up. One neighbor said that she knew Perez and her husband well and that he took the easy way out. Thats a coward, thats not a man, King Wheeler said. Im calling him a coward. You dont do that. Police said they dont believe there is anyone else involved in the murder. Sandy Springs police are independently investigating the crash. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Police are still working to determine the exact motive. Perez leaves behind a son and a daughter. Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to contact the Roswell Police Department at 770-640-4100. Anonymous information can be provided through Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.StopCrimeATL.org. WAUKESHA, Wis. Jury selection began Monday afternoon in the trial of the man who faces 76 charges after police say he drove an SUV into a Christmas parade crowd in 2021 that killed six people. Darrell Brooks Jr., 40, of Milwaukee, was identified as the driver of the red SUV that drove past barricades and tore through the downtown Waukesha crowd on Nov. 21, following a domestic incident with a woman with whom he has had a relationship. The trial is being held in Waukesha County Circuit Court and is expected to last until the end of October. The process of jury selection sometimes called voir dire and includes hundreds of potential jurors began around 2 p.m. Monday after near-constant interruptions from Brooks. Selecting a jury could take up to three days. Here's what to know about the trial. What is Darrell Brooks charged with? Brooks is facing 76 charges: six counts of first-degree intentional homicide with use of a dangerous weapon; 61 counts of recklessly endangering safety with use of a dangerous weapon; six counts of hit-and-run involving death; and two counts of bail jumping, all felonies; and one count of misdemeanor domestic abuse-battery. More on the charges: Wisconsin prosecutors add 71 more charges in Waukesha Christmas parade deaths Brooks could face life in prison On the intentional homicide charges, Brooks could face six consecutive life terms. If he is convicted on the 61 counts of recklessly endangering safety, his consecutive prison term could total 762 years, plus an additional 305 years for the modifier of use of a dangerous weapon. Who will testify? Hundreds were in the vicinity when the SUV struck at least 67 people along the parade route. A lot of them recorded video of the incident on their phones. The exact number who will be called to the stand wasn't publicly shared by Waukesha County District Attorney Sue Opper, but it could involve dozens. However, in a recent hearing, Opper indicated her list had been shortened by as many as 75 witnesses. Story continues Still, the prospective witness list was enough for the trial to be scheduled on the court docket for four weeks. While Opper had indicated she anticipated presenting the state's case in five to seven court days, things have changed since then, potentially slowing the pace. 'It is astonishing': More than $2 million raised so far for victims of the Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy Wisconsin horror: Timeline of SUV driver's destructive path along Waukesha parade route Judge Jennifer Dorow presides over a hearing for Darrell Brooks Jr. Friday in Waukesha County Court in Waukesha. He is charged with killing six people and injuring more than 60 after plowing through a Christmas parade with his sport utility vehicle on Nov. 21. Brooks is representing himself In what presiding Judge Jennifer Dorow called a much-later-than 11th-hour move, Brooks opted to waive his right to attorneys and decided to represent himself, his federal and state constitutional right. His lack of detailed training in court rules and procedures was expected to cause some confusion and extend the trial, which happened Monday. After repeated disruptions, Dorow twice removed Brooks from the courtroom Monday and called six breaks in the proceedings between 8:30 a.m. and noon. Dorow told Brooks if the interruptions continued, she would appoint an attorney for him to keep the trial on track. In August, Brooks erupted once after losing several key motion decisions, including one arguing for case dismissal. Dorow has warned him that any such outbursts can result in her admonishing him before the jury. She has also cautioned Brooks that he will not be able to strategically delay the trial. Last week, the judge told him it would be "difficult" but not impossible for him to add legal representation after the start of the trial. Brooks seemed to push that point in the last week's hearing. 'It's the same dynamic': Suspect in Waukesha parade attack has history of domestic violence. Experts aren't surprised. The Waukesha effect: A surge in weaponized vehicles plowing into crowds wreaks havoc on national safety How to watch the trial The trial will be livestreamed via Wisconsin Court System's feed from Dorow's courtroom. The pandemic forced judges to let livestream cameras into court: The Chauvin trial showed it could work. Will it last? Dorow ruled that, because this is a public trial, all victims and witnesses except juveniles will be fully recognizable in video while they are on the stand. The jury selection process will not be livestreamed and audio recording is restricted. Based on recent feeds, it appears that Court TV intends to carry video of the trial as well. However, that video may not be constant, and there was no confirmation of whether Dorow had approved. Contact Jim Riccioli at (262) 446-6635 or james.riccioli@jrn.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jariccioli. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Darrell Brooks trial begins in Waukesha over Christmas parade attack By Emma Farge GENEVA (Reuters) - Switzerland has a serious systemic problem with racism against people of African descent, according to a report presented to the U.N. Human Rights Council on Monday, giving a broad range of examples from police brutality to a children's game. The U.N.-appointed working group noted positive measures taken by Switzerland but still voiced concerns about the prevalence of racial discrimination and highlighted several incidents following a visit to the country this year. "The ubiquity and impunity of this misconduct indicates a serious systemic problem exists," it said. Switzerland's ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva broadly accepted the findings in comments to the council, although questioned the experts' use of a limited number of examples to draw wider conclusions. Landlocked Switzerland was never a colonial power but its banks, traders and municipalities invested heavily and benefited from the transatlantic triangular trade, the report said. It noted efforts to raise public awareness about aspects of Swiss history, such as a petition and debate around the removal of the statue of a banker whose fortune relied on exploitation of enslaved Africans, in the canton of Neuchatel. However, others remained valorised such as Louis Agassiz, an advocate of scientific racism, who has an Alpine peak named after him. Swiss playground games persist such as "Who is afraid of the Black man?", which have a racially discriminatory effect, the experts said. The report also noted "shocking" police brutality, noting the deaths of several Black men in the Vaud canton. "Switzerland agrees with your observation that racism and racial discrimination - including against people of African descent - are problems that must be tackled as a matter of urgency," Jurg Lauber told the Geneva-based Human Rights Council on Monday. He stressed that new measures had been implemented to address the issues, including cantonal consultation centres for victims of racial discrimination and pointing to improvements in police training programmes. (Reporting by Emma Farge, editing by Ed Osmond) Though having been undergoing prolonged heat and drought since this summer, Chen Lei's rice field in Changfeng County, east China's Anhui Province, is still expected to reap a bumper harvest at the end of October. Unlike common rice grown in paddy fields, the water-saving and drought-resistant rice varieties grown by Chen were sowed on dry land, while their output is about the same as common rice. Around 20 km away in Hefei City, capital of Anhui, a seminar held in late September gathered experts countrywide to discuss these new rice varieties. "Agricultural water consumption accounts for over 70 percent of the total water consumption in China, and rice irrigation accounts for over 70 percent of the agricultural water consumption," said Luo Lijun, chief scientist of the Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center. After years of research, Luo and his team combined the good qualities of traditional rice with the drought resistance of upland rice to cultivate the new varieties, which can save about 50 percent of water and 30 percent of fertilizer usage. As heat and drought swept many regions of China this year, the new rice varieties have helped many farmers secure production. According to Luo, over 3 million mu (200,000 hectares) of these varieties have been grown in China as of now, including around half of them in Anhui. "Despite persistent heat, I only watered the field twice this year, and the rice still grows well," said Chen, who expanded his rice field from 300 mu last year to 1,000 mu. He also spent less on electricity for irrigation, as well as pesticide and herbicide thanks to the new varieties. Meanwhile, the water-saving and drought-resistant rice can reduce about 90 percent of the emission of methane, a greenhouse gas, compared with common varieties, said Zhou Sheng, deputy director of the Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Low-carbon Agriculture, at the seminar. Luo's team is striving to achieve an annual planting area of 10 million mu of the new varieties during the 2021-2025 period, which will reduce 156,000 tonnes of methane emissions from rice fields annually, equivalent to about 4.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide. The special varieties have also been introduced to nearly 20 countries overseas, including 11 African countries, according to Liu Zaochang, a researcher with the Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center. "We have been developing new varieties based on the local weather and climate of foreign countries, wishing to contribute our part to global food security," said Liu. Multiple insiders secured a larger position in Tamboran Resources Limited (ASX:TBN) shares over the last 12 months. This is reassuring as this suggests that insiders have increased optimism about the company's prospects. While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we do think it is perfectly logical to keep tabs on what insiders are doing. See our latest analysis for Tamboran Resources Tamboran Resources Insider Transactions Over The Last Year The insider Bryan Sheffield made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for AU$20m worth of shares at a price of AU$0.37 each. That means that even when the share price was higher than AU$0.22 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. Generally speaking, it catches our eye when insiders have purchased shares at above current prices, as it suggests they believed the shares were worth buying, even at a higher price. In the last twelve months Tamboran Resources insiders were buying shares, but not selling. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date! Tamboran Resources is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Does Tamboran Resources Boast High Insider Ownership? I like to look at how many shares insiders own in a company, to help inform my view of how aligned they are with insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Insiders own 14% of Tamboran Resources shares, worth about AU$28m. We've certainly seen higher levels of insider ownership elsewhere, but these holdings are enough to suggest alignment between insiders and the other shareholders. Story continues So What Do The Tamboran Resources Insider Transactions Indicate? It doesn't really mean much that no insider has traded Tamboran Resources shares in the last quarter. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Overall we don't see anything to make us think Tamboran Resources insiders are doubting the company, and they do own shares. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. For example, Tamboran Resources has 5 warning signs (and 2 which are concerning) we think you should know about. But note: Tamboran Resources may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here An illicit early morning joy ride ended in tragedy Sunday in Southwest Florida, an area still reeling from Hurricane Ian. In a news briefing, in St. Petersburg, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said that three teen boys checking for unlocked cars, found a Maserati with the keys inside in a driveway, and took off. Deputies in a patrolling chopper investigating an unrelated burglary nearby spotted the teens from above as they were entering the high-end Italian performance vehicle. They alerted a crew on the ground to a possible theft-in-progress, according to a release. As police approached the Maserati, the teens took off speeding over 80 mph and without headlights. The 15-year-old who was driving lost control of the vehicle, fish tailed, careened over a curb, hit a business sign and flipped. READ MORE: Teens arrested after stealing pizza delivery car, Florida cops say Responding deputies immediately gave medical aid to the suspects. A 15-year-old sitting in the front passenger seat died at the scene. The 16-year-old passenger in the back seat had life-threatening injuries and was not expected to survive, the sheriff said. The driver is recovering at a hospital. These kids were on that bad path,said Gualtieri calling the incident a crime of opportunity. This is what happens when youre an inexperienced driver, youre out at 3:30 in the morning, driving at 80 mph and you lose it, he said. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, announced the states new chief of school safety and security on Monday several months after the Uvalde school shooting left 19 children and two adults dead. John P. Scott, of Dallas, was named the new Chief of School Safety and Security within the Texas Education Agency (TEA), starting Monday. He was Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the United States Secret Service Dallas/North Texas District. Following the May 24 tragedy at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Abbott directed TEA to create the position of Chief of School Safety and Security within the agency to serve as a recognized expert on school security and public safety issues and a resource to school districts and the legislature. The chief is expected to ensure Texas schools are implementing the school safety policies passed by the legislature and take every action possible to ensure schools are using best practices to safeguard against school shootings or other dangers, according to Abbotts office. TEXAS JUDGE BLOCKS RELEASE OF UVALDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SHOOTING RECORDS REGARDING STATE POLICE RESPONSE Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks during a press conference about the mass shooting at Uvalde High School on May 27, 2022 in Uvalde, Texas. Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images "Protecting Texas children and making our schools safer for all are top priorities, and John Scott is uniquely qualified to help lead our efforts ensuring their safety and security in Texas schools," said Abbott said in statement. "Chief Scott's wealth of experience in security and intelligence and exemplary service to our nation makes him the perfect fit as the new Chief of School Safety and Security." "I look forward to working with Chief Scott as we continue increasing our strong collaboration and communication among state agencies to provide a safe and secure environment for every Texas student, parent, teacher, and school faculty member," the governor added. Scott will report directly to Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath and will have a direct line to the Office of the Governor to ensure increased communication and collaboration among state agencies to provide a safe environment for Texas students and school faculty, Abbotts office said. Story continues Privacy barriers and bike racks maintain a perimiter at a memorial outside Robb Elementary School, after a video was released showing the May shooting inside the school in Uvalde, Texas, U.S., July 13, 2022. REUTERS/Kaylee Greenlee Beal The announcement comes after a month after five Texas Department of Public Safety officers who responded to the Robb Elementary School shooting were referred to the inspectors generals office to face an investigation into their actions in Uvalde. The more than 300 law enforcement officers who responded to the shooting scene have been heavily criticized for their delayed response in engaging the 18-year-old gunman, eventually taken out by a Border Patrol tactical team. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks during a press conference about the mass shooting as he sits with Christina Mitchell Busbee, 38th Judicial District Attorney and Mayor Don McLaughlin at Uvalde High School on May 27, 2022. Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images Previously, Scott has served as Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge for the North Texas Cyber Fraud Task Force, Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge for the Protective Intelligence & Physical Protection Unit in Dallas, and Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the Secret Service Headquarters/Protective Operations Division in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Scott served as Special Agent in the Vice-Presidential Protective Division and Dignitary Protective Division in Washington, D.C. and in the Houston Field Office. Before joining the Secret Service, Scott was a U.S. Army Field Artillery Officer and Captain where he completed Airborne and the rigorous Ranger schools. Scott earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Texas Tech University, where he was named a Distinguished Military Graduate. A Honduran migrant told police she was offered a ride earlier this year to a local bus station in El Paso, Texas, by a woman who instead snatched her infant son and held him for ransom for five arduous months, according to a federal criminal complaint unsealed Monday. Jenna Leigh Roark, 45, is facing charges of hostage taking, and aiding and abetting for allegedly abducting the unidentified boy in May and keeping him captive until cops inadvertently stumbled upon him in mid-September. Roark told a different story to police, insisting her husband had landed himself in trouble with the Mexican mafia and that her young hostage came to her via a shadowy middleman she knew only as Richard. Tales of kidnappings these days are all-too common among migrants seeking safety in the U.S., Austin-based immigration lawyer Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch told The Daily Beast, pointing to the Trump-era metering policy that shut down available options for asylum-seekers to enter the country as a turning point. President Joe Biden vowed to remove the many wrenches Trump threw into the asylum systems works, but hasnt moved fast enough, some human rights groups say. Meanwhile, Republican governors Ron DeSantis of Florida and Greg Abbott of Texas have executed cruel stunts using asylum-seekers as props, luring them onto planes and buses and dumping them in so-called liberal enclaves such as Marthas Vineyard or the sidewalk in front of Vice President Kamala Harris official Washington D.C. residence. The GOP-Friendly Jet Company Making Big Bucks Off DeSantis Migrant Stunts Roark, who does not have a lawyer listed in court records, was unable to be reached for comment. The U.S. Attorneys Office in El Paso, which is prosecuting the case, did not respond to a request for comment. The peculiar case first came to the attention of authorities on Sept. 16, when Roark was pulled over by the Texas Highway Patrol. Roarks 15-year-old daughter, who is not identified by name in court documents, was sitting in the passenger seat, holding an 18-month-old infant. Roark said the babys name was Aiden Smith and he had been born on May 19, 2021. She said her other daughter was the biological mother and the boys birth certificate was at home. Story continues The troopers summoned Roarks other daughter, who is also unnamed in court papers, to the scene. When she arrived from Albuquerque, she said the babys name was Aiden Javael Smith, and that he had been born on May 192020. The baby wasnt actually hers, she explained, but her fiancee was the boys biological mom. He was in poor health, and rushed by ambulance to the hospital, according to a DPS news bulletin issued last week. Due to conflicting stories and not being able to identify the child, Child Protective Services was called to take possession of the child [who] has been in their custody since that date, the complaint states. There were three passengers in the backseat of Roarks car, all of whom were undocumented, according to the complaint. Roark, who had allegedly picked up the trio at a nearby Motel 6, was arrested on state human smuggling charges. On Sept. 26, investigators with the St. Petersburg, Florida Police Department contacted the FBI. They told agents that a Honduran national who was now living in the area had been separated from her infant son and was being extorted for money in exchange for [his] safe return. It happened in May, the unidentified woman told officers. She said she had crossed the U.S.-Mexico border with her baby, and eventually approached two strangers, a man and a woman, at an El Paso apartment complex for directions to the Greyhound station, the complaint continues. The unknown male and female offered her a ride, it says, adding that the womanRoarkcalled herself Jane. Hopeless Migrants Left Stranded at a Motel After Canceled Flight to Delaware While en route, however, Jane said they were going to keep the womans child, the woman told police. Jane took her phone number and said shed be in touch. Jane would periodically send Victim pictures and videos of [her] Son, and Victim and [her] Son would speak on the phone two to three times a week, the complaint states, without providing further detail. Things almost certainly werent that simple, according to Lincoln-Goldfinch, who is not involved with the Roark case but told The Daily Beast that in her experience with other cases, people are threatened with death or violence, and they witness other people get murdered or raped, and theyre told, Do this thing, or else. I can tell you of many, many incidents and stories Ive heard from my clients, she said. If someone hires a smuggler to help them, that smuggler is either someone who will take a fee and help them get across the border, or that smuggler is a trafficker with a cartel, and theyll take that money and then do all sorts of awful things, demand a ransom, and the migrant doesnt know which type of smuggler theyre getting. Jane at first demanded $8,000 for the return of her child, later dropping the price to $5,800, the complaint says. Police in St. Petersburg gave Janes cell phone number to the FBI, who traced the device to downtown El Paso and linked it in a database to a Jenna L. Roark. The FBI contacted the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for more information on Roark, and learned that she had been arrested the previous week and that a child was taken into CPS custody, the complaint states. FBI agents showed pictures of the child to his mother, who confirmed he was indeed hers. Why Americans Cant Agree on How to Handle the Migrant Crisis Under questioning by DPS, Roark stated that her husband was in trouble with the mafia in Juarez known as La Empresa, according to the complaint. She claimed the baby boy who she initially described as her daughter's kids was sent to her by a man in Mexico only known [to her] as Richard. In Roarks version of events, Richard had originally sent the Honduran woman and her two other children across the border. The baby was eventually brought to the United States by an unknown female and Roark was supposed to care for the child until payment by Victim was made, the complaint states. And while the childs alleged ransom was set at $5,800, Roark said she told the boys mom that she in fact owed a total of $10,000. Roark was instructed that she could not take anyones word but Richards that payment for the child was made, the complaint concludes. Once payment was made, the Son could be released. Once they have someones kid, the parent will do whatever it takes, Lincoln-Goldfinch said on Monday. In addition to her private practice, Lincoln-Goldfinch is the president of VECINA, a nonprofit that mentors, trains, and equips pro bono attorneys with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide zealous advocacy. The backlog of migrants stuck on the other side of the Mexican border has created an opportunity for cartels, what Lincoln-Goldfinch calls a lucrative kidnapping system. In a study VECINA conducted over the summer, Lincoln-Goldfinch said a mind-boggling 44 percent of migrants the organization worked with said they had been abducted, or subjected to an abduction attempt, by a cartel. The latest case is not only heartbreaking but extremely frustrating, she said. One of the things that is so frustrating for those of us who know these stories, is that the rhetoric around immigrants as kidnappers, or drug traffickers, or sex traffickers, is completely flipped, she told The Daily Beast. The truth is, these immigrants are fleeing something, theyre coming here for safety. They are the victims of trafficking, often, and the cartels have seized upon the opportunity to do what theyre doing because of the U.S. failure to process asylum-seekers in an orderly way. If convicted, Roark faces a maximum of life in prison. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported that the state has seen seven cases of West Nile Virus so far in 2022. In the U.S., there have been 420 cases as of Sept. 20, 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. West Nile Virus is the illness that doctors now suspect Art Hains has. Kendra Findley, administrator of community health and epidemiology for Springfield-Greene County Health Department, said that Greene County doesn't see many cases. "We receive so few reportable cases of West Nile we maybe see one case a year, or it may go several years where we don't see any cases," Findley said. "That may be because we don't have a lot of the virus within our mosquito population, or it may be because 80% of those who get infected with West Nile are actually asymptomatic." About 20% of people develop fever with other symptoms like body aches, joint pain, vomiting or diarrhea, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, about 1 in 150 people develop severe illness like inflammation of the brain or inflammation of the membranes the surround the brain and spinal cord. Of those who develop illness in the central nervous system, about 1 in 10 die, according to the CDC. More:What is the most dangerous animal in the world? The surprising animal you've already met. West Nile Virus spreads when mosquitoes bite infected birds, and then bite humans, horses or other mammals. However, a non-infected mosquito that bites a human, horse or other mammal with West Nile Virus cannot pass it onto someone else, because those hosts don't carry high enough levels of the virus in the bloodstream. "You still have to be concerned outdoors with mosquitoes. They're still a nuisance, there's still a chance that you can get infected with West Nile. So what we would really encourage people to do is to try to protect themselves against that bug bite," Findley said. Story continues If someone is outdoors at dusk or dawn, that's when there will be the most mosquito activity. The best ways to protect against bites is to ensure skin is covered and to apply bug repellant according to the packaging. Another thing people can do is to make sure they eliminate sources of standing water, where mosquitoes lay eggs. Susan Szuch is the health and public policy reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. Follow her on Twitter @szuchsm. Story idea? Email her at sszuch@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: How to stay safe from West Nile Virus complications in Missouri Topeka police maintain control off the scene where three officers fatally shot 38-year-old Christopher Kelley on June 24. The Topeka Police Department last week denied a request by The Capital-Journal seeking body camera video of the incident in which Kelley died. Topeka police last week denied a request by The Capital-Journal seeking body camera video of the fatal shooting by three Topeka police officers June 24 of Christopher Kelley, 38, whom officers said charged at them with a knife. Police legal adviser David Huckabee said the Kansas Open Records Act shields the videos involved from public release because they are personnel records and investigative records, and because their release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. Those arguments lack merit, replied Max Kautsch, a Lawrence attorney and president of the Kansas Coalition for Open Government. Topeka police have an obligation to make the video public to answer questions surrounding Kelly's death, Kautsch said. "The credibility of the entire local law enforcement apparatus is at stake until it releases the video," he said. More:Topeka police acted justifiably June 24 in fatally shooting man who had knife, D.A. says Kelley was a husband, father, cook and friend, and had been a lance corporal in the arine Corps, said Danielle Twemlow, who helped organize a gathering held July 14 to memorialize him on the south steps of the Kansas Statehouse. The event focused on "the wonderful man he was before his life was tragically taken from us by police," according to its Facebook site. Here's what happened Police were called about 9 a.m. June 24 to the area of S.E. 4th and Holliday, where Kelley a Black man with mental health issues had reportedly trespassed on BNSF Railroad property, threatened a BNSF employee with a knife, then began cutting himself with the knife before police arrived, said Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay. He said officers set up a perimeter and tried to negotiate for roughly an hour, shooting Kelley with "bean bag" rounds and foam/rubber projectiles, though he disobeyed their commands and continued to occasionally cut himself with the knife. About 10 a.m., Kelley screamed and charged with the knife extended over his head at the officers, who fatally shot him, Kagay said. Story continues An autopsy showed Kelley had methamphetamine and marijuana in his system, he said. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigated circumstances of Kelley's death, then forwarded a report to Kagay's office. Kagay announced Sept. 23 that he had concluded that the officers acted justifiably and would not be subject to criminal prosecution. Their names have not been made public. More:A year after Cedric Lofton death, possible change to stand your ground law uncertain in Kansas Police say video constitutes personnel records The Capital-Journal on Sept. 23 submitted a request to Topeka's city government seeking police body camera video of the incident in which Kelley died. In his response Wednesday to The Capital-Journal's request, Huckabee said it was being refused under a section of the Kansas Open Records Act that enables agencies to "deny the release of any materials considered as personnel records, performance ratings or individually identifiable records pertaining to employees or applicants for employment." Kautsch said the police department would have a hard time proving the video of Kelley's shooting is a personnel record. He said the Kansas Atttorney General's Office in 1999 ruled "the personnel exception is designed to protect information that is normally kept in personnel records files, such as documentation of discipline, references and resumes, ADA and FMLA issues, as well as specific personal information such as home address and social security number." The body camera video of Kelley's shooting doesn't fit that definition, Kautsch said. "Presumably, body cam footage is ordinarily uploaded to a department server, not inserted into individual officers' personnel files," he said. "The (district attorney) has already determined the officers acted reasonably, so there's no reason to believe the video would have been placed in their files for any disciplinary reason. Moreover, the video does not constitute any of the other personally identifiable information ordinarily kept in personnel files." Police say video constitutes criminal investigation records Huckabee said another reason for the denial of The Capital-Journal's request was because the records being sought were criminal investigation records, which Kansas law says agencies may keep confidential. Kautsch replied that though Kansas law defines the video as being a criminal investigation record, the Kansas Open Records Act allows such records to be disclosed when they are in the public interest. Last year, district courts in both Sedgwick and Johnson counties heard cases in which police conduct was questioned that were resolved by the law enforcement agency defendants turning over requested investigative records, Kautsch said. "In ordering disclosure, the Sedgwick County judge found that 'when there is misconduct or even alleged misconduct, it is in the public interest to know exactly what happened and what remedial steps have been taken to address such misconduct, if any,'" he said. Police say video's release isn't in the public interest Huckabee said one reason the police department denied The Capital-Journal's request is because disclosure "is not in the publics interest." Kautsch disagreed, saying the public so far has had no choice but to take Kagay's word for the reasonableness of the conduct of the officers who fatally shot Kelley. "Concluding that the officers acted reasonably hinges almost entirely on accepting that the suspect was killed only after he 'raised the knife and charged at law enforcement officers,'" Kautsch said. "The video is the only way for the public to challenge or verify that conclusion. " Police say release could interfere with prospective law enforcement action Another reason the police department denied the release of the video was because its disclosure "has the potential to interfere with prospective law enforcement action," Huckabee said. That argument lacks merit, Kautsch replied. "The officers won't be charged. The suspect is dead," he said. "It would be the department's burden to prove that it is more likely than not that this exception is truly applicable. I rather doubt a reasonable person would find it possible to meet that threshold." More:A Kansas deputy tased a 12-year-old autistic boy who was handcuffed, shackled and hogtied Police say release of video could endanger someone's safety or life Police also denied the video's release under a section of Kansas law that allows for that to be done regarding any record that "has the potential to endanger the life or physical safety of any person," Huckabee said. Kautch said he was presuming the department was contending the video's release would threaten the safety of the officers involved. "That's a stretch, particularly if the video were redacted to obscure the officers' identities," he said. "State law makes clear that even if a portion of the record may be withheld, the agency must 'separate or delete such material' and disclose the rest." Police say video's release would be unwarranted personal privacy violation In denying The Capital-Journal's request, Huckabee added that Kansas law enables public agencies facing KORA requests to consider "the potential release of records where those public records contain information of a personal nature where the public disclosure thereof would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy." Kautch replied that under a balancing test the attorney general described in a 2006 ruling, any privacy concerns regarding the Kelley case are far outweighed by the public interest in this case, so long as the officers' faces and any other identifying characteristics are obscured. "Here, even if the officers, as public employees, have a privacy interest in their images on the body camera footage, the video would clearly 'shed any light on the conduct of any government agency or official' because it would give the public an opportunity to judge for itself whether the officers acted reasonably," he said. Tim Hrenchir can be reached at (785) 213-5934 or threnchir@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Topeka police won't release body camera video of fatal shooting By Brendan O'Brien (Reuters) - A state trial was set to start on Monday for three men accused of taking part in an elaborate plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2020 over her COVID-19 restrictions, with the hopes of starting a civil war. Jury selection was scheduled to begin in a Jackson County courtroom where Joseph Morrison, 28, his father-in-law Pete Musico, 44, and Paul Bellar, 23, are charged with firearm violations, gang membership and providing material support for terrorism. They could face 20 years in prison if they are convicted. The three are among 13 men who were arrested in October 2020 and charged with state or federal crimes in the alleged kidnapping conspiracy. Prosecutors say the plot was motivated by opposition to state coronavirus restrictions imposed by the governor and grievances related to the 2020 presidential election. Attorneys for the men were not immediately available for comment. Prosecutors said the men were members of the Wolverine Watchmen, a militia group that planned to break into Whitmer's vacation home, kidnap her and take her away at gunpoint to stand trial on treason charges. They hoped that the abduction would lead to a violent uprising and instigate a civil war, prosecutors said. Authorities in an affidavit said that Morrison and Musico hosted tactical training sessions on their property in remote Michigan while Bellar provided plans for tactical maneuvers, coded language for covert communication and ammunition. The trial against Morrison, Musico and Bellar comes five weeks after a federal jury in Grand Rapids convicted Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr. of conspiracy in the plot. Two other defendants were found not guilty in the first federal trial. Two weeks ago, a federal judge reduced the sentence of a man who pleaded guilty to participating in the plot after his testimony helped convict Fox and Croft. Ty Garbin, 26, was resentenced to 30 months in prison, less than half of the 75 months he was given in August 2021. (Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Chicago; Editing by Mark Porter) (Reuters) - The trial of the man accused of killing six people by driving his car into a Christmas parade near Milwaukee, Wisconsin, last year began on Monday with jury selection. Darrell Brooks, 40, has pleaded not guilty to 77 charges, including six counts of intentional homicide. Judge Jennifer Dorow of Waukesha County Circuit Court granted Brooks' request last week to dismiss his lawyers and represent himself, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and other news outlets reported. Just minutes into Monday's proceedings, the judge called for a brief recess and ordered that Brooks be taken back to a cell after he repeatedly interrupted her, according to journalists at the courthouse. Brooks, a Milwaukee resident, was arrested near the scene of the attack on Nov. 21 and has been in custody ever since. Prosecutors say Brooks deliberately drove his car through police barricades and into the crowds participating in the annual parade in the city of Waukesha, about 15 miles (25 km) west of downtown Milwaukee. The ages of the people killed ranged from 8 to 81 years old, and more than 60 other people were injured, including at least 18 children. Brooks, who was out on bail from a domestic abuse charge at the time of the attack, faces life in prison if convicted of the most serious charges. Hundreds of people witnessed the attack, several recording cellphone videos, some of whom are expected to be called to testify by prosecutors from the Waukesha County district attorney's office. The trial had been scheduled to last about a month, but Brooks' decision to represent himself may prolong the process even as Dorow has warned him that the court will not tolerate deliberate acts of obstruction, the Journal Sentinel reported. (Reporting by Jonathan Allen in New York; Editing by Mark Porter) Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on September 3. Kyle Mazza/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images The New York Times' Maggie Haberman thinks Trump is likely to launch another presidential bid. But she suggested he might not see out the campaign. Haberman was discussing her new book about Trump, "Confidence Man," on CBS News. The New York Times' Maggie Haberman said she thinks former President Donald Trump will likely run for office again in 2024 but might not see out the campaign. In an interview with CBS News on Sunday, Haberman, who's promoting her new book about Trump, "Confidence Man," discussed the former president's political future amid investigations into his businesses and presidency. When the host John Dickerson asked Haberman about rumors that Trump is considering launching another bid for the presidency in 2024 possibly after the midterm elections in November Haberman replied, "I think he's backed himself into a corner where he has to run." She continued: "I think that he needs the protections that running for president, he thinks, would afford him in combating investigations that he calls a 'witch hunt.' And it is the way that he fundraises and makes money. So much of his identity now is about being a politician. So I expect that he will run. That doesn't mean that even if he declares a candidacy that he will stay in the whole time." Trump is facing an FBI investigation into his retention of government records after leaving office and a civil investigation by the New York attorney general's office into his business practices. The former president has dismissed the investigations as plots by his political enemies. He reportedly thinks that running for office again may provide him some protection against the investigations. Haberman, who's known for her extensive contacts in Trump's circle, revealed behind-the-scenes details of Trump's political career in her book, such as that Trump considered refusing to leave the White House after his defeat in 2020. She also said Trump appeared to acknowledge taking letters from North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, to Mar-a-Lago. Trump last week criticized Haberman in a post on his social-media network, Truth Social, describing her book as "fake." Read the original article on Business Insider Flash A much-needed harvest has not arrived for date palms in the Gaza Strip through September, which local farmers said is another evidence of the tangible impact that climate change has on their livelihood, following the poor pollination in spring. Ahmed Baraka, a 70-year-old farmer from Dir al-Balah in central Gaza, said about 40 percent of his 300 date palms did not bear fruit this season. "This harvest season is the worst in decades ... the climate change contributed greatly to the failure of pollinating palm trees," the father-of-six told Xinhua. Considering this year's delayed harvest season, farmers worried that if it ends in time in mid-October, the gross yields of this sweet household fruit could be bleak. In Gaza, Baraka said, palm trees are usually pollinated in early spring when the weather gets warmer and not rainy, but this year the winter cold wave had extended well into March and April, resulting in a much shorter pollinating period. "Because of this, I am afraid I will have heavy financial losses instead of profits," the elderly man complained, expressing his fear of not being able to pay the salaries of his 30 workers. "Normally, the coastal enclave produced about 15,000 tons of date, while this year it will not exceed 10,000 tons," Adham al-Bassiouni, spokesman for the Hamas-run agriculture ministry, told Xinhua. What makes matters worse, according to Baraka, is that the Gazan products are increasingly hard to compete with imported dates on the local market, even though date harvesting plays as a short-term but quick remedy to the spiking unemployment in the Palestinian enclave. Hassam Mohammed, a Gaza-based farmer, told Xinhua that working as a seasonal harvester bears his hope of keeping the family afloat. "I used to work for 12 hours a day and earn about 500-700 U.S. dollars each season," said the 29-year-old, adding that in this season, however, both working hours and wages are shrinking. "This year, I am working for eight hours a day for ten dollars only," the father-of-three added. In Gaza, there are about 12,000 dunams (about 1200 hectares) of agricultural land growing palm trees, about 8,500 dunams of which are fruitful, and the rest are unproductive, according to the Hamas-run agriculture ministry. Wind and insects are the natural pollinators of palms, and their activities may vary according to broader climatic patterns. Al-Bassiouni said when the natural environment becomes unfavorable, proper human intervention is crucial for the entire pollinating and seeding process. Islam Abu Shuaib, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Civil Society for Palm Development in the city, called on the Hamas-run agriculture ministry and the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization to help brace the Gazan palm growers for a more volatile future. Former president Donald Trump filed a defamation lawsuit against CNN on Monday, seeking over $475 million in damages. According to the lawsuit, the media company has used its massive influence purportedly as a trusted news source to defame the Plaintiff in the minds of its viewers and readers for the purpose of defeating him politically. Trump also claims that CNNs negative coverage contributed to his loss to Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Trump had announced his intent to take legal action against CNN for its allegedly defamatory descriptions of him in July. The Plaintiff requests compensatory damages in an amount in excess of the $75,000.00 jurisdictional limit, as to be determined at trial, and punitive damages in the amount of $475,000,000.00, the filing reads. Included among the allegedly scandalous, false, and defamatory labels that CNN has used in its discussions of Trump are racist, Russian lackey, insurrectionist, and Hitler, per the former presidents legal team. To meet the burden of proof in a defamation case, Trumps legal team must demonstrate that CNN journalists and hosts made statements that were false, circulated those statements to third parties, and did so out of malice or negligence. One example highlighted by the filing was a Special Report on The Fight to Save Democracy anchored by CNN anchor Fareed Zakaria in January 2022. Trump claims that the segment inappropriately portrayed his refusal to accept the 2020 election results as similar to tactics employed by Adolph Hitler and the Nazi Party. The filing asserts that the report goes on to discuss the Plaintiffs challenge to election integrity in the 2020 presidential election and that democracy is under attacknot because of potential fraud in the election process but because the Plaintiff questioned the election results. A focal point of the report is a discussion of the ascendancy of Hitler and comparisons to the Plaintiff, interspersing discussion of Hitler and Nazi Germany with footage of the Plaintiff. Zakaria states in the report, Lets be very clear. Donald Trump is not Adolf Hitler. But the disclaimer is lost in an otherwise direct and graphic analogy, it continues. Story continues The report also takes issue with CNN personalities use of the term Big Lie to describe the former presidents unfounded allegations of large-scale voter fraud in 2020. New CNN president Chris Licht, who has made an effort since assuming the role to restructure and rebrand the networks programming and talent, reportedly told anchors in a meeting earlier this year to limit use of the phrase the big lie surrounding Trumps election theories, The Hill reported. More from National Review Former President Donald Trump arrives at a Save America Rally at the Aero Center Wilmington on September 23, 2022 in Wilmington, North Carolina. Allison Joyce/Getty Images Democrats previously envisioned running for reelection by touting their legislative wins. Donald Trump's dominating headlines and recruiting efforts prompted a recalibration. "Things have changed a whole bunch," Joe Biden said of the decision to go negative this fall. With no way to escape Donald Trump's outsized influence on the 2022 midterms including his nationwide slate of election-denying candidates, his Supreme Court appointees leading the charge on overturning abortion rights, and the embattled former president railing against every law enforcement official currently investigating him Democrats are sounding alarm bells about returning Republicans to power with American democracy on the line. "I remember I got beat up in the campaign by saying that I wanted to unify the country and unify the parties," the Washington Post reported that President Joe Biden said recently. "You used to be able to do that. But things have changed a whole bunch." Democrats' initial inclination to stump for reelection this fall by celebrating the legislative wins they've wracked up during Biden's first two years in office has morphed into warning against GOP-controlled anything with just weeks to go. "This November, you have to choose to be a nation of hope, unity and optimism or a nation of fear, division and darkness," Biden said recently at a Democratic gathering. The issues the Washington Post says pushed lawmakers like Democratic Rep. Pat Ryan of New York to rail against "a coordinated domestic attempt to undermine our Constitution" while on the campaign trail include the non-stop headlines about Trump's myriad criminal and civil probes, the rise of Trump-endorsed candidates expected to champion his baseless claims of election fraud if they win their way into office, and the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade this summer. "In a normal environment, this midterm election would be about Joe Biden," former Democratic Rep. Steve Israel told the Post. "But this midterm, Democrats have successfully made it a referendum on Donald Trump, and he's helping them by inserting himself in the headlines and endorsing candidates in primaries who are way too far to the right for moderate electorates." Story continues Using the polarizing former president as a foil this fall is tricky, given that Trump isn't officially running for anything at the moment. He remains the presumptive GOP front-runner for the 2024 presidential race. But with Biden's poll numbers still underwater and congressional Republicans tethered to Trump until someone else wrestles control of the party away from him, many Democrats appear comfortable with betting that portraying Republicans as harbingers of doom will pay off. Rep. Brendan Boyle told the Post he gets it. But he also sees room for some positivity. "Our side absolutely has to double down on talking about what we just did on prescription drugs, what we achieved on infrastructure, what we achieved on the gun bill," the Pennsylvania Democrat said, adding, "If there is one self-criticism of Democrats, it's that we need to do a better job of celebrating our victories and not just moving on to the next issue." Read the original article on Business Insider By Michel Rose and John Irish PARIS (Reuters) - UK Prime Minister Liz Truss's decision to join the inaugural summit of a pan-European grouping this week has given a boost to the initiative, a brainchild of French President Emmanuel Macron that some have written off already as just another talking shop. The summit in Prague of the European Political Community (EPC) will bring together the 27 leaders of the European Union with 17 leaders from the continent currently outside the club, including Britain, Turkey, Norway and Ukraine. Truss's decision to attend Thursday's meeting gives Britain an opportunity to shape a new European forum from the inside after Brexit, and it could shift the spotlight away from financial and political turmoil at home. "The British took a very pragmatic tactic: if you cannot 'kill' the strange initiative, it is better to engage deeply and to direct it in your own way," a European diplomat told Reuters. Diplomats say the EPC's purpose is far from clear, and many doubt that, with so many around the table - foes as well as friends - it will last, even though it will address issues that preoccupy them all: energy, security and immigration. A key aim for Macron is to embrace EU candidate countries that are losing patience waiting for membership of the bloc, and in doing so counter attempts by Russia and China to gain influence in the continent's southern and eastern fringes. "One of the points is to be able to tell Kosovo and Albania we can do things with them, and they don't have to rely only on Russia and China for investment," a French official said. Macron worries that the long road to meeting EU membership criteria could discourage Western Balkans nations, boosting populists and euroscepticism. The French also think it is important to have a forum to discuss security with Britain, Europe's other big military power, or energy with Norway, which is currently helping Europe wean itself off Russian gas. Story continues "BLAH BLAH" However, Macron's lofty ideals about a happy "European family" are not widely shared. His proposal was initially seen with suspicion by eastern European countries, and Ukraine in particular, who suspected it was a ploy by France, long reluctant to admit more countries into the EU, to keep them in a sort of "purgatory". French officials deny this is the case and have gone out of their way to reassure them. "At the start we were afraid the EPC would be an alternative to EU membership, but as it develops now, I don't think so," an eastern European diplomat said. Expectations remain low, however. "It will be just another 'blah blah' forum to discuss ... but after a few meetings it might finish without any big success," the eastern European diplomat added. "There are too many countries with too many interests ... How do you have Serbia and talk about Russia? How do you have Turkey and Greece/Cyprus together? How to have Armenia and Azerbaijan at the same table?" France is aware that, without a clear agenda, many feel the summit will amount to little more than a huge family photo of leaders at Prague Castle. Still it was pleased that Ukraine has come up with proposals on what the EPC should look like, as well as Moldova, which has offered to host the second summit of the grouping. Another French diplomat said some concrete initiatives could emerge from the forum, including university cooperation following Britain's exit from the Erasmus exchange programme, or even free phone roaming charges across member countries. European diplomats think the initiative also has the advantage of bringing Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan closer to Europe and away from Russia. The Turks, initially miffed by French hesitancy, eventually received an invitation and will attend, but warned the EU should not believe Ankara will give up its hopes to join the club one day. It opened membership negotiations with the EU 23 years ago. Ahead of the Prague summit, some European diplomats recalled another French initiative, launched with fanfare over a decade ago by then-President Nicolas Sarkozy, that fell into oblivion. "Like the Mediterranean Union, it'll be a big French project without big success and real impact," one Baltic diplomat said. (Writing by Michel Rose; additional reporting by Sabine Siebold in Berlin and John Chalmers in Brussels; Editing by John Chalmers and Nick Macfie) By Roleen Tafakji and Sinan Abu Mayzer JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Outside an East Jerusalem school, the trestle tables were piled high with textbooks that Palestinian parents protesting what they call an Israeli censorship campaign handed out to arriving students. The books, covering several subjects, contained passages removed from the edited texts mandated by Israeli authorities that the students, growing up in the mainly Arab part of the city, are given in class. The protest, part of decades-long struggle between Israelis and Palestinians over Jerusalem's - and their own - identity, took place on Saturday and followed a one-day school strike in mid-September. "The Palestinian curriculum represents us, our heritage, religion and history," said parent Um Yazan Ajlouni as she handed out the unedited texts in an outbuilding outside Iman Elementary School in the Beit Hanina neighbourhood. "We do not accept another curriculum that changes all of that." Dozens of parents had demonstrated outside the school last Monday carrying banners with slogans including: "No to the Israelization of education". Examples shared by Palestinians on social media of sections removed from textbooks by Israeli edits included: a verse mentioning Israeli checkpoints from a poem from a Arabic language book; illustrations of a key - the symbol of Palestinian refugees - from a math book; and a paragraph on treaties that divided the Middle East from a geography book. Israel says the Palestinian textbooks contain content that amounts to incitement against the state and its security forces, and in July sought to revoke the licences of Iman and five other schools, having given them a year to switch to an approved and redacted version of the Palestinian Authority's curriculum that they teach. TRADITIONS AT LOGGERHEADS Israel captured East Jerusalem in 1967 and later annexed it in a move not recognised internationally. It declared the whole city as its eternal and indivisible capital, citing biblical, political and historical links. Story continues Palestinians, who make up 38% of Jerusalem's population and of whom only about 5% are Israeli citizens, seek East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state that would include the occupied West Bank and Gaza. Successive attempts since 1967 to introduce an Israeli syllabus in East Jerusalem schools were blocked by parents and teachers, and that part of the city adopted a Palestinian curriculum in the 1990s. Israeli Education Minister Yifat Shasha-Biton wrote on Twitter last month that schools there "that portrayed Israeli soldiers as murderers and that glorified terrorists were made to fix their content" or lose their license. Among mandated edits enforced by East Jerusalem's Israeli municipality and cited by it were: changing an exercise asking children to name Palestinians held in "the occupation's prisons" with one that asks them to name the peace bird; and changing a text accusing Israel of destroying Palestinian heritage and stealing artefacts accompanied by a map that did not label Israel. A municipality official said it supported the use of textbooks "that adhere to UNESCO standards and do not incite violence". The official also said authorities offered schools the option of using the Israeli syllabus rather than imposing it - a contention the Palestinian side says is misleading. According to a 2016 report by the Palestinian Academic Society for the Study of International Affairs, an independent Jerusalem-based think tank, Israeli authorities have consistently used financial incentives to pressure East Jerusalem schools to teach the Israeli curriculum. According to the municipality official, 15% of East Jerusalem's student population is taught the Israeli curriculum compared with around 3% ten years ago. For concerned parent Tareq Akash that shift is part of a process he fears may end with the erasure from memory of the seminal event underpinning his community's identity: the Nakba - or catastrophe - of the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians during the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. "We will not allow the brainwashing of our children," he told last Monday's demonstration. (Reporting by Roleen Tafakji and Sinan Abu Mayzer; Additional reporting and writing by Henriette Chacar; editing by John Stonestreet) The U.S. government is taking legal steps to limit the amount of space junk the cloud of dangerous debris still orbiting the Earth after more than six decades of space races, rocket launches, planetary missions and booming satellite activity. The key measure is the imposition last week by the Federal Communications Commission of a five-year lifetime for new satellites after they complete their mission, by which time theyll have to deorbit and burn up in the Earths atmosphere. Before now, a 25-year lifetime has been in place as a guideline, but its never been legally enforced. The new rule applies only to satellites launched by U.S. operators, and it wont solve the space junk problem on its own. But experts agree its a good start and in line with international efforts. Its about establishing rules for space and having a legal framework that people have to adhere to, said space debris expert Carolin Frueh, an associate professor of aeronautic and astronautic engineering at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. Thats a big step. Earths orbital space is vast, and there are only about 5,000 active satellites. But its estimated that there might be millions of pieces of space junk circling our planet from entire stages of rockets, which can weigh several tons, to inactive satellites, lost bits of space equipment, stray nuts and bolts, and the broken fragments of orbital collisions. Most of those pieces are tiny smaller than a nickel. But theyre orbiting at more than 15,000 mph, and experts estimate there are about 30,000 pieces of space junk large enough and fast enough to be a serious problem and potentially a disaster. There have already been some close calls. In June the International Space Station changed its orbit to avoid debris from a Soviet-era satellite, which had been blown up in a Russian test of a new anti-satellite missile. So far the ISS has had to avoid orbiting space debris more than 30 times during its 23-year mission. Its also been damaged by space junk, and on another occasion the ISS crew were ready to leave in case of a collision. Story continues An artist's depiction of orbiting debris and satellites around Earth. (NASA) And the problem will get worse. One report estimated that about 10,000 more dangerous pieces of space junk will be in orbit by the end of this century. Space debris is not yet at the stage where we cannot do any more space missions, said Thomas Schildknecht, a professor of astronomy at the University of Bern in Switzerland and the director of the Zimmerwald Observatory. But the risk is increasing, and if we dont pay attention, then in 10 years from now well be at the level where we cant do anything. Schildknechts team has been tracking the most dangerous pieces of space debris for several years and now uses lasers to track their trajectories. As well as predicting dangerous collisions, astronomers use their database to schedule observations when their view wont be disrupted by stray space junk. We get precise information so we can inform astronomers when there is something flying by, so they can choose their observing times a little differently, he said. Its already a problem. Schildknechts database is one of the sources consulted by commercial space firms like COMSPOC, a Pennsylvania-based company that, among other things, offers to keep satellite operators apprised about any threats in their orbits, including space debris, so they can avoid them if possible. The companys chief scientist, Dan Oltrogge, said he welcomes the FCCs new five-year lifetime and thinks it could be even stricter. He noted that the rule wont affect new constellations like Starlink from Elon Musks SpaceX a network of thousands of satellites to provide internet almost anywhere on the globe because those satellites are already in a low orbit and are expected to deorbit after about a year. Theyre demonstrating that not only should you do it in five years, you should do way better than that, he said. Many experts think the only solution to the space junk problem will be to send up robot spacecraft to gather it all and deorbit it for good. The Japanese startup Astroscale captured a simulated piece of space junk in a test last year and has a deal with the satellite constellation operator OneWeb to deorbit its satellites. In 2019, the European Space Agency selected the private company ClearSpace to remove objects from orbit using a robot spacecraft with large claws. Tests are expected to start in orbit in 2026. And the Seattle-based startup Starfish Space is developing a space-tug called Otter to service satellites in orbit and push space debris into low orbits where it will fall to Earth. The company expects to launch by 2024. Such active measures are also a key part of a bill for an ORBITS Act that would require NASA and the space industry to explore new solutions to the problems of space junk. Purdues Frueh suggested another solution to the problems of space debris will be to not leave junk in orbit to begin with. Moving in the direction of active removal is certainly what we need, she said. But it will not be a standalone measure. We also need to design our missions with space debris problems in mind, and to bring things down as soon as possible after a mission is completed. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said on Monday it will spend almost $800 million to address flood mitigation, coastal storm damage protection and address supply chain resilience. About $221 million will address flooding for the Pearl River in Jackson, Mississippi, it said in a statement. The plan, funded by the $1 trillion infrastructure bill Congress passed in November 2021, supports construction of 31 additional projects and 11 previously announced projects. The Pearl River funding for a comprehensive flood damage reduction plan is subject to a review of environmental and other criteria. In August, U.S. President Joe Biden declared a state of emergency when Jackson, Mississippi, went without reliable drinking water after pumps at the main water treatment plant failed. The city linked the failure to complications from the flooding of the Pearl River. A boil water advisory was lifted on Sept. 15. White House Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator Mitch Landrieu said in a statement to Reuters that funding will be used to ensure "communities across the country can withstand the effects of climate change and extreme weather for decades to come." The administration plans more than $250 million in additional funding for the Soo Locks replacement project in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, which is contingent upon passage of separate water resources legislation. Michigan lawmakers have pushed for years to get federal funding for a new $1.3 billion lock to handle larger vessels and prevent a potential failure of the locks. It also includes $60.6 million for storm-ravaged Rio Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, to assist with flood damage reduction, and $46 million to address flooding risks in southwest Louisiana. About $2 million will be used to complete preconstruction engineering and design phases for the eventual replacement of two bridges across the Cape Cod canal in Massachusetts, a project costing more than $1 billion. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Richard Chang) By Nate Raymond WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear Turkish state-owned lender Halkbank's bid to avoid criminal charges of money laundering, bank fraud and conspiracy for allegedly helping Iran evade economic sanctions in a case that has strained American relations with NATO ally Turkey. The justices took up Halkbank's appeal of a lower court's decision rejecting the bank's contention that it was immune from U.S. prosecution under a 1976 law called the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act, which limits the jurisdiction of American courts over lawsuits against foreign countries, because the business is majority-owned by Turkey's government. Federal prosecutors in New York in 2019 brought charges against Halkbank, accusing it of participating in a scheme to launder about $20 billion of Iranian oil and natural gas proceeds in violation of U.S. sanctions against Iran. The bank pleaded not guilty to charges of bank fraud, money laundering and conspiracy over allegations that it used money servicers and front companies in Turkey, Iran and the United Arab Emirates to evade sanctions. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has called the U.S. government's decision to charge the bank an "ugly, unlawful" step and has pushed for the case to be dropped. The charges stemmed from an investigation that first became public with the 2016 arrest of Reza Zarrab, a Turkish-Iranian gold trader who U.S. prosecutors said had close ties with Erdogan. Zarrab pleaded guilty and testified at trial against Mehmet Hakan Atilla, a Halkbank executive who was arrested in 2017, subsequently convicted of helping evade U.S. sanctions and sentenced to 32 months in prison. After being indicted, Halkbank sought the dismissal of the charges on the grounds that the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act rendered it immune from prosecution as an arm of Turkey's government. A trial judge and the New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed, finding that Halkbank could be prosecuted because its alleged misconduct involved commercial activity not covered by sovereign immunity. Story continues Halkbank appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, calling the prosecution "unprecedented" and saying that the 2nd Circuit's ruling "green lights future indictments of any sovereign state." The U.S. Justice Department countered that the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act addresses only civil cases, not criminal prosecutions, and even if it did, the case fell within the law's exceptions for cases involving commercial activities. A trial was delayed awaiting action by the Supreme Court. Halkbank's shares ended Monday's session up 9.89%. Separately, five Turkish banks, including Halkbank and two other state lenders, suspended use of the Russian Mir payment system in the past two weeks after the U.S. Treasury targeted the head of the system's operator with new sanctions and warned those helping Moscow to skirt them. The suspensions come as Western nations grow concerned over increased economic ties between Russia and Turkey, which opposes the sanctions on principle but has promised they would not be circumvented in the country. (Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Will Dunham) By Jody Godoy (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear an appeal by two former Platinum Partners executives of their conviction on charges that they defrauded bondholders of one of the defunct hedge fund's portfolio companies as they seek a new trial. The justices, on the first day of their new term, turned away an appeal by Platinum co-founder Mark Nordlicht and co-chief investment officer David Levy of a lower court ruling that reversed the trial judge's decision to overturn their convictions after jurors found them guilty. Nordlicht and Levy were convicted in 2019 of securities fraud and conspiracy for cheating bondholders at the Platinum-controlled Black Elk Energy Offshore Operations LLC to limit Platinum's losses if Black Elk went bankrupt. They are scheduled to be sentenced in November. Prosecutors said the scheme involved diverting tens of millions of dollars from sales in 2014 of Black Elk oil fields after rigging a bondholder vote to ensure that Platinum and not bondholders would be paid first. Black Elk creditors filed an involuntary bankruptcy petition against that company in August 2015. In 2019, U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan overturned the convictions. The judge ordered a new trial for Nordlicht, saying it would be "manifest injustice" to uphold his conviction after Nordlicht went to "great lengths" during the vote to follow rules governing a Platinum affiliate. Cogan granted Levy acquittal or alternatively a new trial, saying prosecutors had not proven he had criminal intent. The New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2021 reversed the rulings, finding that jurors had seen sufficient evidence to convict the two men. Nordlicht and Levy have argued that the 2nd Circuit's decision set too high a bar for courts to review verdicts. Nordlicht and Levy petitioned the Supreme Court to undo the 2nd Circuit decision, arguing that it deepened a disagreement among U.S. appeals courts over whether a judge considering a request for a new trial may "reweigh" evidence heard by a jury. Story continues Prosecutors said the appeal mischaracterized the 2nd Circuit ruling, which they said did not conflict with other courts. A Justice Department spokesperson declined to comment while defense lawyers did not respond to requests for comment. (Reporting by Jody Godoy in New York; Editing by Will Dunham) By Andrew Chung WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Mike Lindell, a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump, must face a $1.3 billion lawsuit by Dominion Voting Systems Inc accusing him of defamation for pushing false claims that its voting machines rigged the 2020 presidential election, with the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday turning away his appeal. The justices rejected a bid by Lindell and his company My Pillow Inc to immediately appeal a federal judge's refusal to toss the lawsuit. A lower court also snubbed his effort to quickly review the case, allowing the litigation to proceed. Denver-based Dominion's lawsuit against Lindell is one of a number that the company and a competitor, Smartmatic USA Inc, have filed against Trump allies and conservative media outlets over false claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Trump through widespread voting fraud. Dominion sued Lindell and Chaska, Minnesota-based My Pillow in 2021 in federal court in Washington, accusing him of making claims he knew were not supported by evidence. "But Lindell - a talented salesman and former professional card counter - sells the lie to this day because the lie sells pillows," Dominion's lawsuit stated. U.S. Judge Carl Nichols in August 2021 rejected Lindell's request to dismiss the case, finding that Dominion "adequately alleged that Lindell made his claims knowing that they were false or with reckless disregard for the truth." Nichols added, "As a preliminary matter, a reasonable juror could conclude that the existence of a vast international conspiracy that is ignored by the government but proven by a spreadsheet on an internet blog is so inherently improbable that only a reckless man would believe it." Lindell sought to appeal that decision. But in January, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejected it, noting that the case can be reviewed after a "final judgment" in the trial court. Story continues Lindell told the Supreme Court that blocking an immediate appeal "condemns any honest and tenacious critic of the administration of a public function to a monumentally exhausting and devastatingly costly judicial process before an appellate court has any opportunity to decide whether a district court has correctly applied the constitutional standard." A Minnesota federal judge in a separate case ruled on Sept. 19 that Lindell must face a defamation lawsuit brought by London-based Smartmatic over his false accusations that it rigged the 2020 U.S. election against Trump and in favor of President Joe Biden. Lindell also is facing a federal investigation involving identity theft and conspiring to damage a protected computer connected to a suspected voting equipment security breach in Colorado. The equipment at issue was furnished by Dominion. (Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham) Flash Palestine on Sunday urged the European countries to tie their relations with Israel to its adherence to international law, UN resolutions, and human rights principles. The international community "is required to hold Israel directly responsible for the escalation in the West Bank against the Palestinians, and to put real pressure on it to stop it immediately," the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "Israel insists on escalating the situation, and we seriously view the dangers of this escalation that serves its interests," the statement said. The call came ahead of the 12th meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council, which will be held in Brussels. The meeting will cover topics such as trade, energy, climate change, culture, science, and technology. The meeting takes place amid ongoing tensions between the Israeli army and Palestinians in the West Bank. Since early January, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, according to official Palestinian figures. In contrast, 18 Israelis have been killed in attacks carried out by Palestinians in Israeli cities since March. By Blake Brittain WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear Biogen Inc's bid to win reinstatement of a patent on the company's blockbuster multiple sclerosis drug Tecfidera in a dispute with Viatris Inc subsidiary Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. The justices turned away Biogen's appeal of a lower court's decision to invalidate the patent in a ruling that helped clear the way for Mylan's generic version of Tecfidera. Biogen sued Mylan, now part of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania-based Viatris, in West Virginia in 2017, saying Mylan's proposed generic version of Tecfidera would infringe Biogen patents. U.S. District Judge Irene Keeley ruled in 2020 that a key Tecfidera patent was invalid. Mylan launched its generic that August. Tecfidera is still one of Cambridge, Massachusetts-based Biogen's best-selling drugs. But the company's revenues from it have dropped because of generic competition. The patent-focused U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld the judge's ruling in favor of Mylan in a 2-1 decision, finding the patent's written description did not outline its method for treating MS clearly enough. The Federal Circuit decided 7-3 not to have all of its judges hear the appeal after the three-judge panel's ruling. Biogen told the Supreme Court that the Federal Circuit had added "additional, atextual requirements that distort" the standard for securing a patent involving a clear written description of the invention and how it is made and used. Biogen also said the decision would "chill investment in innovative technologies, including life-altering medical treatment." Mylan responded that the relevant part of Biogen's patent failed to describe its method for treating MS with specificity "even once." (Reporting by Blake Brittain; Editing by Will Dunham) A University of Georgia freshman is in jail after police say he made terroristic threats on a social media app. Police confirmed to Channel 2 that they arrested 18-year-old Stuart Harris over the weekend. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] According to an incident report, UGA police received a tip from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation about a violent threat made on YikYak. Police say they traced the threat back to Harris and his dorm room at Brumby Hall on Saturday night. TRENDING STORIES: Officers arrested Harris and took him to the Clarke County Jail. He remains there on felony terroristic threat charge. On Sunday, officers met with Harris at the jail to give him a written notice that he is restricted from the UGA campus. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS Last week, digital trading app Revolut registered with the U.K.'s top financial regulator, bringing to an end the temporary registration regime (TRR), a program that allowed crypto companies to operate in the country while they are waiting for full regulatory approval. Revolut was the only company from the five that were left on the list to qualify for full registration. Crypto firms seeking to operate in the U.K. must now go through a full registration process with the Financial Conduct Authority, the countrys primary financial regulator, a spokesperson from the FCA said. Crypto firms, however, have been complaining about the FCAs delays in processing applications. Those delays led to some companies dropping out of the process last year. If a firm is able to satisfy us that it meets the conditions for registration, we will register them, the FCA said in an email to CoinDesk. Its a two-way street, so the time it takes to register a firm, and whether theyre registered at all, depends on the quality of the information provided to us. Thirty-eight firms have successfully done so. In April, the U.K. government said that it wanted to turn the country into a global crypto hub, and the governments commitment was reiterated by new Prime Minister Liz Truss government. The same month, the FCA said it had been critical of crypto and wanted to move forward with a balanced approach. Since then, it has hosted several crypto sprints to hear from the digital-asset industry. But despite the regulator's efforts to support the crypto industry, only five companies have managed to register since April. Read more: Crypto Firms Weigh Options as UK Registration Deadline Looms The TRR regime The TRR regime was set up in December 2020 by the FCA and was open only to cryptocurrency companies that were already operating in the country. More than 100 firms were entered into the list, but only 38 of those (including Revolut) managed to qualify for full registration with the FCA. Story continues Although the FCA had set a deadline for companies on the TRR list to try to get full approval by March 31, a select few companies like Revolut were allowed to stay on the list past that date. The FCA didnt provide any details on why the deadline was extended for some companies, but said the firms may have been pursuing an appeal or had particular winding-down circumstances. By April 8, five companies out of the 106 that were initially on the list were still operating under the TRR regimes auspices. Those included crypto exchange CEX.io, digital bank Revolut, digital asset-trading platform GlobalBlock, digital asset custody provider Copper.co and crypto wallet and payment platform Moneybrain. By June 30, Revolut was the only company remaining on the list and ended up being the only one to receive approval from the FCA. The other four companies have opted to register elsewhere and operate outside the U.K. Exodus GlobalBlock planned to come off the TRR regime because it felt the FCA was not ready for crypto companies at that point, CEO Rufus Round told CoinDesk in an interview in April. Round added that the regulator hadnt approved its application for at least 18 months. The company saw a better opportunity with the European Union, which finalized its markets in crypto assets (MiCA) legislation in September, Round said. GlobalBlock announced that in May it had registered in EU member Lithuania via its subsidiary GlobalBlock Europe. Copper is still in talks with regulators across the jurisdictions the company is operating in, including the U.K., Carly Nuzbach Lowery, the firms chief legal officer, said in an email to CoinDesk in July. Coppers subsidiary received a stamp of approval in Switzerland when it was added to the countrys Financial Services Standard Association, a self-regulatory body recognized by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority, Lowery said. CEX formally withdrew its application on May 31, according to Jonathan Wykes, managing director of U.K. and Europe at the firm. It has moved users located in the European economic area and the U.K. to its British Virgin Islands subsidiary CEX Overseas Ltd. Firms serving U.K. customers should be regulated with the FCA, but the regulator is waiting for crypto to be added to the financial promotions rules to stop firms that arent authorized from advertising to U.K. customers. Moneybrain didnt respond to a request for comment. Read more: Crypto Remains a Priority for UK Under New Leader, Drawing Industry Excitement Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska said in an interview aired Sunday that she and other Ukrainians are getting stronger with Russias war now in its eighth month. Zelenska, the wife of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, has become a prominent voice of Ukraines resistance, addressing U.S. lawmakers earlier in July to urge continued support for the fight against Moscow. CBS 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley asked Zelenska if the war had shown her that she was stronger than she previously thought. Everyone has become stronger You survive, and going through trials you automatically become stronger, Zelenska told Pelley. So yes, we are getting stronger, but will that help us? I hope so. But Zelenska also told Pelley that Ukrainians are suffering amid ongoing shelling. Half our families are separated, because someone is at the front, someone went abroad to save their children, someone is under Russian occupation. People are afraid to leave their homes because of shelling, they are afraid to even try to evacuate. We have thousands of dead. Hundreds of children are dead, she said. What are the Russians trying to do? Pelley asked Zelenska. They trying to frighten people to make them run to have towns and villages empty so they can occupy these territories, Zelenska replied. Pelley asked if Russias attacks were warfare or terrorism. Definitely terrorism, Zelenska replied, the war is being waged using modern means but from the moral and ethical point of view, its the middle ages. Zelenskas interview comes as Ukraine has made continued gains on the battlefield, pushing Russian forces out of the strategic city of Lyman. Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to Russian losses by ramping up his rhetoric about nuclear weapons and mobilizing up to 300,000 reservists to join the fight. He also held a ceremony on Friday to annex four regions of Ukraine, in a move derided by the US, which promised not to be deterred in supporting Kyiv. Story continues National security adviser Jake Sullivan told a top Ukrainian official on Sunday that any individual or entity who supports Russias annexation of regions in eastern and southern Ukraine will face severe consequences. Zelensky announced on Friday that Ukraine would file an expedited application to join NATO, arguing that Kyiv was already a de facto ally. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said that liberating settlements from Russian occupation is now the trend as his forces press further into the eastern Donetsk region and seek gains in the south. Most Read from Bloomberg As Russias forces lose ground to Kyivs counteroffensive, the Kremlin said it still hasnt finalized the borders of two of the four regions of Ukraine that President Vladimir Putin laid claim to last week. His comment comes after the strategic eastern town of Lyman was fully cleared, the president said in a brief video. The town is part of the regions Putin annexed following referendums termed illegal by Ukraine and its allies. (See RSAN on the Bloomberg Terminal for the Russian Sanctions Dashboard.) Key Developments Musk Sets Off Uproar in Ukraine by Tweeting His Peace Plan Russias Novak Set to Attend OPEC+ Meeting in Vienna Ukraine Advances in South After Hammering Russians in Northeast Russia Says Annexed Zones Borders Not Set as Ukraine Army Gains Key Wheat Variety Returns Above $10 as US Supply Risks Mount On the Ground Ukrainian forces resumed a counteroffensive in the southern Kherson region and have secured positions in Zolota Balka and Khreshchenivka, the US-based Institute for the Study of War said. Ukrainian forces continued to win back settlements east and northeast of Lyman and have taken Torske in the Donetsk region. Infrastructure in the city of Zaporizhzhia was damaged by missile strikes Monday morning. Over the past day, Russia launched 11 missile and 10 air strikes and over 65 rocket attacks, attacking some 35 Ukrainian settlements, Ukraines General Staff said. (All times CET) Story continues Musk Says SpaceX Has Spent About Million on Ukraine (6:25 a.m.) SpaceXs out-of-pocket costs for providing Ukraine with Starlink dishes stands at around $80 million so far, Elon Musk said in a tweet late Monday, adding that the company is obviously pro-Ukraine as it defends itself against the Russian invasion. Musk, the companys chief executive, infuriated Ukrainians when he suggested that the country seek a negotiated solution to the invasion by Russia and cede Crimea for good. US Says No Reason So Far to Change Its Nuclear Posture (10:08 p.m.) The US sees nothing in Russias movements so far to compel a change in the American nuclear posture, a senior military official, briefing on condition of anonymity, told reporters at the Pentagon. Also, the official said that although the US is seeing some Russian replacement forces entering Ukraine its not on a large scale despite Putins move to mobilize 300,000 troops. Musks Tweeted Peace Plan Sets Off Uproar in Ukraine (9:33 p.m.) Tesla Chief Executive officer Elon Musk drew the wrath of Ukrainians from the president down for Twitter posts urging Ukraine to seek a negotiated solution to the invasion by Russia and to cede Crimea for good. Musk also launched a Twitter poll asking citizens of occupied areas of eastern Ukraine recently annexed by Russia -- plus Crimea, which Moscow took in 2014 -- to decide if they want to live in Russia or Ukraine. The reaction from Ukraine was immediate. President Zelenskiy responded by posting his own poll to Twitter asking his followers if they preferred an Elon Musk who supports Ukraine -- or Russia. Read more here. Analyst Bremmer Says Russia Will Lose Much of Annexed Land (9:01 p.m.) The Russians have escalated dramatically in the last week, Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer said in an interview on Bloomberg Televisions Balance of Power With David Westin. Putins annexation claims make it almost impossible to think about sitting down with the Ukrainians in the near to medium term but it also puts Putin in a corner because hes going to lose a lot of this land. The Russian didnt even control all of it when he annexed it, Bremmer said. I think thats the first time in history you can say that. Next Package of US Weapons for Ukraine Coming Within Days (8:40 p.m.) The US will announce another package of security assistance for Ukraine in the next few days,John Kirby, spokesman for the US National Security Council, said Monday in an interview on Bloomberg Televisions Balance of Power With David Westin. Youre going to see us continue to provide them the kinds of weapons and capabilities that are well-suited to the fight that theyre in, Kirby said. A $625 million package is expected to include four more High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Reuters reported, citing sources it didnt name. The launchers are prized by the Ukrainian military. Kirby also said in the interview that the US so far has seen no indication that countries are moving to recognize Russias annexation claims after conducting bogus referendums. Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Chief Released From Captivity (6:26 p.m.) Russian forces dumped Ihor Murashov, director general of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant on Ukraine-controlled territory after holding him captive, according to the countrys nuclear operator Energoatom. Murashov was kidnapped by Russian forces Sept. 30 as he was heading from the plant seized by Russia to the nearby city of Energodar, according to Energoatom. Rafael Mariano Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, played a significant role in his release, the company said. Ukraine Advances in Southern Kherson Region (6:18 p.m.) Following something of a pause in offensive operations in the south, Ukrainian troops have begun a renewed counteroffensive in the Kherson region. According to Russian military bloggers, by Monday morning they had made significant inroads along the northern reaches of the massive Dnipro rivers western bank. Russias Defense Ministry conceded that its forces pulled back after superior tank units were able to pierce deep into our defenses near Zolota Balka and Oleksandrivka. Although Putin last week annexed four Ukrainian provinces, including Kherson and Donetsk, Moscows forces dont fully control of any of the areas and are being pushed out of some towns theyve held for months, raising concerns over Putins threats of escalation, including the potential use of nuclear weapons. Russia Puts Anti-War TV Journalist on Wanted List (5:15 p.m.) The Russian Interior Ministry put on its wanted list a journalist who gained international attention for staging an anti-war protest on the main TV news channel. Marina Ovsyannikova accompanied by her daughter fled house arrest in Moscow, her ex-husband said over the weekend. Her lawyer said he couldnt confirm whether this is true or not. Ovsyannikova faced prosecution under a law on spreading information discrediting the Russian army, an offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison. French PM Warns Ukraine Conflict Will Last (5 p.m.) Frances Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne warned lawmakers that the war in Ukraine would last, while defending Emmanuel Macrons choice to continue talking with Putin. The future will be written around a negotiation table, and not on the battlefield, she told the National Assembly before a debate about Ukraine. These talks must allow Ukraine to be fully heard, she added. The war in Ukraine will last but we are ready, she said, adding that France had already sent 200 million worth of equipment to Ukraine totaling 2,500 tons. Europe Keeps Importing Russian LNG (3:50 p.m.) The first liquefied natural gas shipment from Russias newest plant is nearing Greece, as Europe continues to import the super-chilled fuel despite Moscow imposing severe curbs on pipeline-gas flows. Moscow is throttling gas shipments to the region following its invasion of Ukraine but Europe continues to import Russian LNG. Read more: LNG From New Russia Plant Nears Greece as Europe Keeps Importing Kyiv Calls for Masks in Public Amid Covid Rise (1:30 p.m.) Kyiv city authorities cite a rising Covid case rate in calling for a return to wearing masks in public places. We recommend wearing masks in transport, public service places and educational institutions, according to a statement on Kyivs Telegram account. The incident rate in Kyiv is increasing rapidly -- up to 2515 cases of COVID-19 within a week, 22 people died. EU Aims for Russia Sanctions Deal, Including Oil Price Cap (12:32 p.m.) The European Union is aiming for a preliminary deal as soon as Monday on a new sanctions package meant to punish Russia for escalating its war in Ukraine and illegally annexing four occupied territories there. I am hopeful in a couple of hours we can have a unanimous agreement on the sanctions package, Polish ambassador to the EU, Andrzej Sados, told reporters. We are very close to it and there is determination to clinch a deal ASAP. Member states are eager to reach an agreement before EU leaders meet in Prague on Oct. 7, said people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified because the discussions are private. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. (Reuters) - Ukrainian forces have made some breakthroughs in the southern Kherson region and taken control of some settlements, a Russian-installed official said on Monday. "It's tense, let's put it that way," Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed head of Ukraine's Kherson region, said on state television. "Where the Kakhovka (reservoir) is, there is a settlement called Dudchany ... it is in this area that there is a breakthrough and there are settlements taken by Ukrainian troops," he said. Dudchany, on the west bank of the Dnipro river, is about 40 km (25 miles) downriver from where Russian troops had opposed Ukrainian forces a day earlier. Ukrainian officials have been tight-lipped about the scale of their counter-offensive in the south, but Russian military bloggers have described Ukrainian tanks advancing along the bank of the Dnipro river. Russia formally moved to annex four Ukrainian territories last week, including Kherson region, but none are fully under the control of Moscow's forces and Ukraine continues to wage a counter-offensive in the south and east. (Writing by Caleb Davis; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) ATACMS long-range missiles would allow Ukraine to go beyond a strike radius of 70-80 kilometres CNN said its report was based on information from multiple officials familiar with the discussions. It said this remarkable transparency essentially gives the United States veto power over Ukraines selection of Russian targets. It is also meant to convince the U.S. administration that providing the critical weapons would not lead to strikes inside Russian territory. Read also: New HIMARS for Ukraine may take time to deliver, says Pentagon ATACMS long-range missiles would allow Ukraine to go beyond a strike radius of 70-80 kilometres, which is currently the maximum for the M-142 HIMARS and M-270 multiple launch rocket systems, which are in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. ATACMS in the M-48 and M-57 modifications can hit targets at a distance of up to 300 kilometers. Earlier, Jake Sullivan, the U.S. Presidents National Security Advisor, said that Washington was not ready to provide Ukraine with missiles with a range of 300 kilometers for HIMARS. Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said in August that Ukraine has an agreement with the United States not to use weapons supplied by the West for attacks on Russia. Read also: Zelenskyy thanks Biden for latest $12.4 billion military aid package for Ukraine In June, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine was not going to strike Russian territory and was not shelling civilian areas, despite regular false claims by Russian propagandists that it was doing so. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine STORY: More than 50 years after gangrene left Hryhoriy Yanchenko without legs and fingers. Hes showing his fighting spirit remains intact by joining the Ukrainian resistance in occupied Kherson. These videos shared on social media in June show the 75 year old driving his mobility cart through the city, playing the Ukrainian anthem and collecting donations for soldiers. He wears a blue-striped jersey and sky-blue beret from the Soviet paratroop unit in which he served. Reuters was able to verify the location of the videos, but not the date they were filmed. "Every day at 9 am I left on my wheelchair and every day I felt as if I was on a minefield. You go somewhere and may never come back home. But I just felt like a Ukrainian, felt like a patriot of sorts." Yanchenko served in the Soviet airborne forces in the 1960s and has been trying to support Ukrainian soldiers since 2014, first organizing a benefit concert and then collecting food and other supplies. In the last six months, Yanchenko said hes raised more than $16,000. The money has been used by a Ukrainian group to buy sniper scopes, rifle accessories and clothing. Some of the money was even donated by Russian soldiers, Yanchenko says with a laugh. But after being confronted by a member of Russias internal security service, Yanchenko knew it was time to leave Kherson, his home for 57 years. He hid for three days with a friend before making a pre-dawn crossing of the Dnipro River. "You understand, I am 75 years old. I was scared that if they found my phone, or laptop, or saw something of the sort, I wouldnt be able to take these challenges at this age. This is all very, very frightening." Yanchenko is now in Ukrainian-held Zaporizhzhia where he continues to collect donations. Dnipro, Ukraine Ukrainian forces recaptured the key city of Lyman over the weekend a major crossroads in eastern Ukraine. Vladimir Putin's military has responded to its steady loss of ground with more long-range attacks, punishing Ukrainian civilians miles away from the front lines for their own troops' advances. When Ukrainian paratroopers swept into Lyman after a hard-fought battle, hoisting their country's flag over the town for the first time in months, it was one of the most significant victories of the war. Lyman is a major transport hub, and the city was used for months by Russia as a vital staging area to resupply its troops on the front lines. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defiantly declared to his nation on Sunday night that their national flag would soon fly again over other regions, too. Even as he spoke, Ukrainian soldiers were advancing further into Russian-occupied regions in the south. Unverified social media posts suggested that Ukraine's defenders had pushed Russian forces back about 25 miles in a single day. The rapid-fire territorial takeover is slicing right into a huge swath of ground that Putin claimed as Russia's own on Friday. The unilateral annexation, following staged referendums in occupied territory, has gone unrecognized by virtually the entire world. It has been derided as an illegal land grab by the United Nations, Ukraine, the U.S. and many other countries. With it, Putin declared the four Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, all Russian soil. As Ukraine's forces push their gains in those regions, reclaiming territory, the mayor of one occupied city told CBS News he expects to see a massive escalation in the seven-month war. Ivan Federov, the exiled mayor of Russian-occupied Melitopol, in the Zaporizhzhia region, was kidnapped in the early days of the war but released in a prisoner swap. He said Putin's decision to declare the annexation of the four regions was a "new level of aggression," and he believes the Russian strongman leader may well "use nuclear weapons now on these territories." Story continues "I expect it," Federov said. "He is crazy." Fears of a tactical Russian nuclear strike using small-scale atomic weapons to target a specific area have put cities like Dnipro on edge. Russian forces have already stepped-up attacks on civilian targets in such places, west of the ground they hold. CBS News saw the vast crater left when a Russian missile slammed down recently in Dnipro, completely destroying a home in a residential neighbohood. It wasn't clear what the Russians could have been targeting. Neighbors told CBS News that a grandmother, a mother and two small children were killed as they slept. Tearful residents paid tributes, laying flowers and toys to remember the young lives taken in a seemingly random rocket attack, miles from the front line. Other Dnipro residents wandered around in shock and disbelief after the strike and in fear, of where and when the next rockets might strike, and what they could be carrying. Olena Zelenska reacts to photos of American support for Ukraine | 60 Minutes Incumbent Jair Bolsonaro sends Brazil's presidential election to a runoff Ukraine reports wins against Russia in territories Moscow says it annexed Ret. Gen. David Petraeus, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Gabriel Aponte/Getty Images for Concordia Americas Summit; Contributor/Getty Images Retired Gen. David Petraeus said the Ukraine war can still get worse for Putin. Petraeus cited a fresh round of sanctions as proof that the West has more leverage to use against Russia. The sanctions target Russian lawmakers and companies linked to Russia's arms supply. The war in Ukraine can still get worse for Putin and Russia, retired Gen. David Petraeus said on Sunday. Speaking on the ABC News program "This Week," Petraeus said Russia's losses have been "staggering" and that his losses on the battlefield are going to continue. He cited the West's reaction to Vladimir Putin's annexation of four regions of Ukraine Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk which collectively make up around 15% of Ukraine's total territory. Putin's declaration came after sham referendums organized by pro-Russian separatists were held in the four Russian-occupied regions. "And of course, by the way, in response to this annexation, Russia got hit by 1,000 more individual personal and other sanctions, showing that the West still has more that can be done to Russia," Petraeus said. The retired general was referring to the fresh slate of US sanctions on Russia that were announced on Friday. The sanctions target Russian lawmakers and companies linked to Russia's arms supply. "It can still get worse for Putin and for Russia. And even the use of tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield won't change this at all," he added. He noted that the threat of nuclear force from Putin needs to be taken "seriously." In a separate radio interview on WABC with New York businessman John Catsimatidis, Petraeus said he thought Putin was in a "very dire" and "irreversibly desperate" state in Ukraine. "The bottom line is Ukraine has done vastly better than Russia has in mobilizing its capabilities in recruiting, training, equipping, help by the US and NATO nations big time, organizing, and employing additional forces and capabilities," Petraeus told Catsimatidis, calling the current state of Russia's military position a "stark reality." Petraeus retired from the military in August 2011 to serve as the director of the CIA from September 2011 to November 2012. He resigned after just over a year in the role after his extramarital affair with his biographer, Paula Broadwell, was uncovered during an FBI investigation. He is now a partner at the KKR Global Institute, the research wing of investment company Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Read the original article on Business Insider Vietnam-Canada Business Association debuts The Vietnam-Canada Business Association (VCB Association) made its debut in Ottawa on October 1, meeting the Vietnamese and Canadian business communities demand to meet, connect with and support each other during trade and investment activities. At the launching ceremony of the VCB Association (Photo: VNA) Addressing the launching ceremony, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Nguyen Trong Thua expressed his belief that the association will make positive contributions to the economic and trade ties between the two countries. He pledged to support the association in expanding its coverage in Vietnam and conducting practical activities. The association is established at a time when the two countries are celebrating their five-year bilateral comprehensive partnership and heading to the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 2023. Last year, despite negative impacts of COVID-19, two-way trade reached about 7.23 billion USD. The association aims to gather entrepreneurs in Vietnam and Canadian businesses interested in doing business in Vietnam and other countries in the world to form a large organisation of diversity to support each other for common development. Speaking at the event, George Chow, Minister of State for Trade of the Government of British Columbia province highly valued the economic and trade partnership between Vietnam and Canada in general and British Columbia in particular. He said he hopes the association will support the post-pandemic economic recovery in both countries. Chak Au, a representative of Richmond city underlined the significance of the association as well as contributions of the Vietnamese Canadian community in the city, showing his belief that the association will help connect businesses of the two countries. Dan On, Chairman of Dan D Pak company and the first President of the VCB Association called on members of the association to join hands in deepening the relations between the two countries. Meanwhile, Vietnamese Consul General in Vancouver Nguyen Quang Trung pledged that the Vietnamese Consulate General will continue to support the associations activities in the future./. Flash UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday called for peace and mutual respect in his message for the International Day of Non-Violence. "The International Day of Non-Violence celebrates not only Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, but the values he embodied that echo across the decades: peace, mutual respect, and the essential dignity shared by every person," said the UN chief. Guterres said that this world "is not living up to those values," noting that "we see this through growing conflicts and climate chaos; poverty, hunger and deepening inequalities; prejudice, racism and rising hate speech and a morally bankrupt global financial system that entrenches poverty and stymies recovery for developing countries." The world "can defeat these challenges by embracing Gandhi's values and working across cultures and borders to build a better, more peaceful future for all, by investing in people's health, education, decent jobs and social protection to prevent people from falling and catch them when they do, and by ensuring access to financing and debt relief for all countries," Guterres said. He also called on the international community to support developing countries as they build resilient infrastructure and protect populations from the impacts of climate change, to secure and uphold the rights and dignity of all people, to take concrete action for inclusion, and to recognize multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic societies as a richness, not a threat. In June 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution to designate Oct. 2, Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, as the International Day of Non-Violence. The resolution says the International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness." On Monday, 3 October, soldiers of the Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade of Air Command Pivden (South) shot down a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft in the Beryslav district of Kherson Oblast. Source: Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram Quote: "On 3 October, at noon, a unit of the Kherson-based Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade of Air Command Pivden (South) shot down a Russian Su-25 attack jet." Background: On 2 October, Air Command Pivden (South) reported that the air defence shot down a Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter in the Beryslav district. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! YEVHEN KIZILOV MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 21:12 On 3 October, the Ukrainian air defence forces shot down a Russian missile in the Kryvyi Rih district, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Source: Valentyn Reznichenko, the Head of the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote from Reznichenko: "3 October. 20:05. Successful hunting by our military personnel. In the evening, our air defence system shot down an enemy missile in the Kryvyi Rih district." Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! STANISLAV POHORILOV MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 18:50 The Armed Forces of Ukraine have repelled Russian attacks in the vicinities of Maiorsk, Niu-York, Zaitseve, Nevelske and Pobieda. Source: evening report by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Details: There were no significant changes on the Volyn and Polissia fronts. The Russian troops fired from tanks and artillery systems of various types on other fronts: on the Sivershchyna front near the settlements of Velyka Pysarivka (Sumy Oblast); on the Kramatorsk front near Bilohorivka, Druzheliubivka, Dvorichna, Rozdolivka and Yampil; on the Bakhmut front near the settlements of Soledar, Bakhmutske, Bakhmut, Maiorsk and Vesele; on the Avdiivka front in the vicinities of Pervomaiske, Avdiivka, Krasnohorivka, Marinka and Vodiane; on the Novopavlivka and Zaporizhia fronts, the Russian army hit over 30 settlements along the contact line using tanks, mortars and tubed artillery. The list includes Vuhledar, Mykilske, Vremivka, Huliaipole, Huliaipilske and Zaliznychne; On the Pivdennyi Buh front, vicinities of 25 settlements along the contact line were hit. The clarified information says the fire damage inflicted on the Russian army in the previous days has been confirmed. Thus, up to 20 units of military equipment were destroyed, and an estimated 8 enemy combat helicopters were seriously damaged in the skies over Kyrylivka settlement, Donetsk Oblast. The data also suggests that, in order to buy time for the preparation and conduct of combat coordination of the conscripted personnel, the Russian military and political leadership made an interesting decision. Casualties of units located along the contact line are replenished at the expense of representatives of the so-called law enforcement agencies that operate in the temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk Oblast. Provision of the administrative and police regime in the temporarily occupied territory will rely on units of the FSB. Story continues The Ukrainian Air Force conducted 19 strikes. 2 strong points, 14 places of concentration of weapons and military equipment, as well as 3 anti-aircraft missile systems of the Russian army were hit. In addition, Ukrainian air defence units shot down a Ka-52 helicopter and a Su-25 attack aircraft of the Russian Air Force. On 3 October, Ukrainian rocket and artillery units struck 4 control points, 17 areas of concentration of military personnel, weapons and equipment, two storage sites with ammunition, material and technical resources, two air defence units, as well as 10 other important Russian targets. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Elon Musk. REUTERS/Adrees Latif Elon Musk has found himself in hot water after weighing in on the war in Ukraine. Musk tweeted out an idea for a peace that seems to parrot Kremlin talking points. One Ukrainian official told Musk to "fuck off" while a member of parliament said it looked like he'd "unexpectedly gone mad." Elon Musk has found himself in the middle of a new controversy on social media, this time over his decision to weigh in on how to resolve the war in Ukraine. The billionaire CEO sent out a series of tweets to his millions of followers on Monday about Russia's invasion of Ukraine, prompting backlash from experts and Ukrainian officials, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a presidential adviser, and Ukraine's ambassador to Germany, Andrij Melnyk, among others. Musk called for a vote as he tweeted a list of conditions he seemed to imply could lead to "peace" between Ukraine and Russia, including redoing the elections in regions recently annexed by Russia, recognizing Russia's annexation of Crimea, assuring water supply to Crimea, and ensuring Ukrainian neutrality. Musk argued "this is highly likely to be the outcome in the end just a question of how many die before then." In response, Melnyk tweeted, "Fuck off is my very diplomatic reply to you." Melnyk was one of a number of Ukrainian officials to call out Musk for his proposal. "Has the account of @elonmusk been hacked by Russians? Or has Elon Musk himself been hacked?" said Anton Gerashchenko, an advisor to Ukraine's internal affairs minister. "Should Putin declare Elon Musk's future Mars colony historically Russian and annex it?" he asked on Twitter. "Musk made a lot for [Ukraine's] victory, but unexpectedly gone mad," Dmytro Gurin, a member of Ukraine's parliament, wrote. Mykhailo Podolyak, a top advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, responded to Musk's idea with what he referred to as a "better peace plan." Story continues "1. [Ukraine] liberates its territories. Including the annexed Crimea. 2. [Russia] undergoes demilitarization and mandatory denuclearization so it can no longer threaten others. 3. War criminals go through international tribunal. Let's vote?" he wrote. Even Zelenskky weighed in, apparently mocking Musk's attempt to solve a real-world crisis with a Twitter vote. Musk's call for redoing the elections in recently annexed regions of Ukraine comes just a few days after pro-Russia proxies in four occupied regions in eastern and southern Ukraine held separate referendums on joining Russia moves that Ukraine and the West widely slammed as illegal and illegitimate. Ukraine said the Russian proxies encouraged teenagers to vote in an effort to boost the appearance of increased participation, while residents described being forced some at gunpoint to vote. Musk's suggestions for bringing about a peaceful end to the war in Ukraine echoed Kremlin talking points and ignored many of the realities on the battlefield, including how poorly Russian forces have performed and the fact they are actively losing ground. Musk, who is a leader in the tech industry but not a historian nor an expert on military matters, Ukraine or Russia, effectively parroted Moscow's false assertions that Ukraine belongs to it. Putin has baselessly claimed that Ukraine is not a real country and owes its history to Russia, despite the fact Kyiv is centuries older than Moscow, and has referred to Ukrainians and Russians as "one people." Russia illegally annexed Crimea in 2014, and the territory is internationally recognized as part of Ukraine. The same goes for all of the Ukrainian territories Putin annexed last week, which are not even fully controlled or occupied by Russian forces. Though there's a shared history and culture between Ukraine and Russia, which has seen regions like Crimea come under Russian rule during various points in history, the Ukrainian people have repeatedly made it clear that they do not want to be subjugated by Moscow. In 1991, Ukrainians overwhelmingly voted for independence from the Soviet Union. And prior to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Ukrainians were waging a war against Kremlin-backed rebels in the Donbas, which is located in the country's east and comprised of Donetsk and Luhansk. And Ukraine's armed forces are now fighting to push out the Russian invaders. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly said it would not agree to any peace deal requiring it to cede its territory. Under the current circumstances in the war, with a Ukrainian counteroffensive progressing far better than expected, Kyiv also has no reason to negotiate for a peace settlement along such lines. "I don't think there's room for negotiation for quite some time because the Ukrainians have been winning and the Russians just demand Ukrainian surrender. Why would you surrender when you're winning?" Jeffrey Edmonds, a CNA Russia expert and former CIA military analyst, told Insider last week. Read the original article on Business Insider ALONA MAZURENKO MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 07:56 Ukraines defence forces [collective name for all Ukrainian military formations involved in the ongoing combat in this country - ed.] shot down one Russian Ka-52 helicopter, a Su-25 fighter jet and eight UAVs over the course of Sunday, 2 October. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 3 October Quote: "During the day, Ukraines defence forces repelled enemy attacks in the vicinity of Zaitseve, Bakhmutske, Bakhmut, Odradivka, Vyimka, Spirne, Nevelske and Pervomaiske. The [Ukrainian] Air Force carried out seven airstrikes, hitting a command post, five concentrations of [Russian] weapons and military equipment, and an anti-aircraft missile system. In addition, [Ukrainian] air defence forces shot down one [Russian] Ka-52 helicopter, one Su-25 attack jet and eight UAVs. [Ukraines] Rocket Forces and Artillery struck two command posts and 14 areas where Russian military personnel, weapons, and equipment were concentrated, as well as 3 ammunition storage points and 8 other crucial enemy targets." Details: Over the course of the past 24 hours, Russian forces carried out 11 missile strikes and 10 airstrikes, as well as over 65 attacks using multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS). More than 35 Ukrainian cities, towns, and villages came under Russian fire, including Ridkodub, Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, Bilohorivka, Bakhmut, Netailove, Vodiane, Marinka, Vremivka, Kryvyi Rih, Zaporizhzhia, Zaliznychne and Mykolaiv. The General Staff has also confirmed Russias personnel and equipment losses in Zaporizhzhia Oblast during the past several days. In particular, one area where Russian military personnel were concentrated has been struck, as were three ammunition dumps, over 20 pieces of military equipment and weaponry, and one S-300 anti-aircraft missile system. A total of over 250 Russian soldiers sustained injuries. Information about fatalities has yet to be confirmed. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! ALONA MAZURENKO MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2022, 02:50 Operational Command Pivden (South) has called for Ukrainians to refrain from prematurely reporting good news from the front. This will help save the lives of soldiers and civilians in the recently liberated territories. Source: Operational Command Pivden (South) on Facebook Quote: "Refrain from reporting even what you think is positive news about the actions of our units. Both the soldiers liberating [Ukraine] and the civilian residents of settlements where military operations are currently underway might pay with their lives for any premature information leaks." Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Ukrainian forces scored more gains in their counteroffensive across at least two fronts Monday, advancing in the very areas that Russia is trying to absorb and challenging Moscow's effort to engage fresh troops and its threats to defend incorporated areas by all means. In their latest breakthrough, Ukrainian forces penetrated Moscows defenses in the strategic southern Kherson region, one of the four areas in Ukraine that Russia is in the process of annexing. Kyiv's troops also consolidated gains in the east and other major battlefields, re-establishing Ukrainian control just as Russian President Vladimir Putin is trying to overcome problems with manpower, weapons, troop morale and logistics, along with intensifying domestic and international criticism. Putin faces disarray and anger domestically about his partial troop mobilization and confusion about the establishment of new Russian borders. Ukraines advances have become so apparent that even Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov, who usually focuses on his military's successes and the enemy's losses, was forced to acknowledge it. With numerically superior tank units in the direction of Zolota Balka and Oleksandrivka, the enemy managed to forge deep into our defenses, Konashenkov said Monday, referring to two towns in the Kherson region. He coupled that with claims that Russian forces inflicted heavy losses on Ukraine's military. Ukrainian forces have struggled to retake the Kherson region due to its open terrain, in contrast to their successful breakout offensive in the northeast around the countrys second-largest city of Kharkiv that began last month. Ukraine has pressed its counteroffensive in the Kherson region since the summer, relentlessly pummeling Russian supply lines and making inroads into Russian-held areas west of the Dnieper River. The Ukrainian military has used U.S.-supplied HIMARS multiple rocket launchers to repeatedly hit the main bridge across the Dnieper and a dam that served as a second crossing. It also has struck pontoon bridges that Russia has used to supply its troops. Story continues As the front lines shifted, the political theater in Moscow continued, with Russias lower house of parliament rubber-stamping annexation treaties for Ukraine's Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions to join Russia. The upper house will follow suit Tuesday. This follows annexation referendums that the Kremlin orchestrated last week that the U.N. chief and Western nations have said were illegal and fraudulent. Russia's moves to incorporate the Ukrainian regions, as well as Putin's effort to mobilize more troops, have been done so hastily that government officials have struggled to explain and implement them. On Monday, the issue was basic: Exactly what areas of Ukraine is Russia trying to incorporate? Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Donetsk and Luhansk are joining Russia with the same administrative borders that existed before a conflict erupted there in 2014 between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian forces. But he added that the borders Zaporizhzhia and Kherson are still undecided. We will continue to discuss that with residents of those regions, Peskov said. A senior Russian lawmaker offered a different view. Pavel Krasheninnikov said Zaporizhzhia will be absorbed within its administrative borders, meaning Moscow plans to incorporate parts of the region still under Kyivs control. He said similar logic will apply to Kherson, but that Russia will include two districts of the neighboring Mykolaiv region that are now occupied by Russia. In addition to the Kherson areas that Russia's Defense Ministry cited, other sources showed Ukrainian flags, soldiers deployed or other signs that Kyiv's forces had retaken the villages of Arkhanhelske, Myroliubivka, Khreshchenivka, Mykhalivka and Novovorontsovka. There was no immediate confirmation from Kyiv on the gains. The situation in the regional capital, also called Kherson, was so precarious that Russian authorities are restricting people from leaving, Ukraine's presidential office said. A Russian-installed official in the Kherson region, Kirill Stremousov, acknowledged that the Ukrainian forces have broken through a little deeper but insisted that everything is under control and that Russias defense system is working. Still, Russia claimed some success at pushing back. The Moscow-appointed chief of the Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, said Ukrainian troops tried to advance toward Dudchany along the Dniepers western bank, seeking to reach a key dam at Nova Kakhovka, but that Russian warplanes destroyed two Ukrainian battalions and halted the offensive. Saldo also said Russian forces fended off Ukraine's attempted inroads into the Kherson region from Mykolaiv and Kryvyi Rih. Neither Saldo's nor Stremousov's claims could be independently verified. Ukraine reported advances in other areas Russia is annexing. The Ukrainian governor of the Luhansk region, Serhiy Haidai, said Kyivs forces retook the village of Torske, 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the city of Kreminna. Ukrainian military analyst Oleh Zhdanov said the area is key for controlling the entire Luhansk region, because further beyond (the city) the Russians dont have any more lines of defenses. "Retaking this city opens up operational space for Ukrainians to rapidly advance to the very state border with Russia, Zhdanov told The Associated Press. He said Russian troops had retreated from the Kharkiv region. Ukraine's army reportedly liberated most of Borova in the Kharkiv region across the Oskil River, 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of the city of Lyman. Officials posted a video while driving along recaptured streets, waving the Ukrainian flag. Finally, you are home. Finally, its Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine! an onlooker yelled. Elsewhere in the Kharkiv region, a doctor was killed and nurse wounded in a Russian missile attack on a hospital in Kupiansk that caused major damage, Gov. Oleh Syniehubov reported. Last week, at least 24 civilians were killed in an attack on a convoy trying to flee Kupiansk. Ukraine also has retaken Lyman, a strategic eastern city that the Russians had used as a key logistics and transport hub. Lyman is in the Donetsk region near the border with Luhansk. Ukraine's push to recapture territory has embarrassed the Kremlin and prompted rare domestic criticism of Putins war. Tens of thousands of Russian men have fled Russia since the Sept. 21 call-up. Many flew to Turkey, one of the few countries maintaining air links with Russia. Others have left in cars, creating long traffic jams at the Russian borders with Georgia, Kazakhstan and Finland. The International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.s nuclear watchdog, said Monday that director general of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant Europe's largest had been released from Russian custody. Russian forces had blindfolded and detained Ihor Murashov on Friday for questioning. ___ Yuras Karmanau contributed from Tallinn, Estonia ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine The University of Miami business school dean will step down come Dec. 31 to start a sabbatical year in January 2023. UM President Julio Frenk announced the news in an email Monday morning, praising John Quelch, 71, as an admirable leader who left an indelible mark on the Herbert Business School. Frenk said Quelch agreed to stay on for a five-year term when he became dean on July 1, 2017. Quelch also serves as the universitys vice provost for executive education. Frenk didnt mention any positions for Quelch at UM after his sabbatical. But Jacqueline Menendez, a university spokeswoman, said Quelch has not accepted or been invited to accept any positions at any other institutions. The Herald emailed Quelch requesting an interview. Marlen Lebish, a spokeswoman with the business school, declined to comment on his behalf. Details on the search for the next business dean will take UM at least a couple of weeks to define. Frenk said in his message he will take time to consult with faculty and other key stakeholders on plans for a transition and the search for a new dean. During Quelchs tenure, UM renamed its business school in 2019 in honor of Miami philanthropists Patti and Allan Herbert, after receiving what the university calculated to be more than $100 million in lifetime giving from the Herberts. The couple met at UM as students in the 1950s. Patti Herbert died in 2020. Quelch oversaw the redesign of the two-year MBA program at UM and launched the nations first STEM-certified master of science degree in sustainable business, among other accomplishments. Before UM, Quelch served as the Charles Edward Wilson Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School. He also worked as a professor of health policy and management at Harvards T.H. Chan School of Public Health. His UM bio recognizes the dual appointment as one of only a few faculty members across Harvard University with this distinction. British by birth, Quelch was named in 2011 a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. He also was dean of the London Business School. ISLAMABAD (AP) The United Nations humanitarian agency warned Monday that about 5.7 million Pakistani flood survivors will face a serious food crisis in the next three months. A top U.N. official announced an increase in the humanitarian appeal for Pakistan to $816 million, from $160 million, amid rising deaths from disease. In Geneva, Julien Harneis, the U.N. resident coordinator in Pakistan, told reporters that aid agencies needed more funds to prevent a second wave of destruction" from waterborne and other diseases in Pakistan. He said the U.N. weeks ago issued an appeal for $160 million in emergency funding to respond to the floods but considering the scale of devastation, the Aug. 30 appeal was not enough. The latest development comes hours after Pakistans National Disaster Management Authority reported that floods fueled by abnormally heavy monsoon rains have killed 1,695 people, affected 33 million, damaged more than 2 million homes and displaced hundreds of thousands now living in tents or makeshift homes. The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in its latest report Saturday said the current floods are expected to exacerbate food insecurity in Pakistan and said 5.7 million people in flood-affected areas will be facing a food crisis between September and November. Even before the floods, according to the World Health Organization, 16% of the population was living in moderate or severe food insecurity. However, Pakistan's government insists that there is no immediate worry about food supplies, as wheat stocks are enough to last through the next harvest and that the government is importing more. The U.N. agency said in a tweet on Monday that the agency and other partners have scaled up their flood response and delivered aid to 1.6 million people directly affected by the deluges. OCHA said outbreaks of waterborne and other diseases are on the rise in Sindh and southwestern Baluchistan provinces, where floods have caused the most damage since mid-June. Story continues Several countries and U.N. agencies have sent more than 131 flights carrying aid for survivors, but many are complaining they have either received too little help or are still waiting for it. The U.N. humanitarian agency also said in its Saturday report that rainfall in Baluchistan and Sindh lightened substantially over the past week, as temperatures start to decrease ahead of winter. Normal conditions are prevailing in most districts of Baluchistan, while in Sindh, the Indus River is flowing normally, said OCHA. Overall, it added, in 18 out of 22 districts of Sindh, floodwater levels had receded at least 34%, and in some districts up to 78%. The OCHA report also highlighted the ordeal of flood survivors, saying many continue to live in unsanitary conditions in temporary shelters, often with limited access to basic services, compounding the risk of a major public health crisis." It said pregnant women are being treated in temporary camps when possible, and nearly 130,000 pregnant women need urgent health services. Already before the floods, Pakistan had one of the highest maternal mortality rates in Asia, with the situation likely to deteriorate, it said. Pakistan says floods caused about $30 billion of damage to its economy. Floods washed away thousands of kilometers of roads, destroyed 440 bridges, and disrupted railroad traffic. Pakistan Railways said it has started restoring train service from Sindh to other cities after repairing some of the tracks damaged by floods. UNITED NATIONS (AP) U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Monday that the world is in a life-or-death struggle for survival as climate chaos gallops ahead and accused the worlds 20 wealthiest countries of failing to do enough to stop the planet from overheating. The U.N. chief said emissions of global-warming greenhouse gases are at an all-time high and rising, and its time for a quantum level compromise between rich developed countries that emitted most of the heat-trapping gases and emerging economies that often feel its worst effects. Guterres spoke as government representatives opened a meeting in Congos capital Kinshasa to prepare for the major U.N.-led climate conference in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh in November. It's a time of immense climate impacts around the world from floods that put one-third of Pakistan under water and Europes hottest summer in 500 years to hurricanes and typhoons that have hammered the Philippines, Cuba and the U.S. state of Florida. In the last few weeks, Guterres has amped up a push for climates version of asking polluters pay for what theyve done, usually called loss and damage, and he said Monday that people need action now. Failure to act on loss and damage will lead to more loss of trust and more climate damage. This is a moral imperative that cannot be ignored. Guterres said the COP27 meeting in Egypt must be the place for action on loss and damage. In unusually critical language, he said commitments by the so-called G20 group of the worlds 20 leading economies are coming far too little, and far too late. Guterres warned that current pledges and policies are shutting the door on our chances to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius, let alone meet the 1.5 degree goal. We are in a life-or-death struggle for our own safety today and our survival tomorrow," he said. COP27 is the place for all countries -- led by the G20 -- to show they are in this fight, and in it together,Guterres said. And the best way to show it is by showing up at COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh. Story continues Rich countries, especially the United States, have emitted far more than their share of heat-trapping carbon dioxide from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas, data shows. Poor nations like Pakistan and Cuba have been hurt far more than their share of global carbon emissions. Loss and damage has been talked about for years, but richer nations have often balked at negotiating details about paying for past climate disasters, like Pakistans flooding this summer. The issue is fundamental for the world's developing countries and Guterres is reminding rich nations that they cannot try and brush it under the carpet ... G20 nations have to take responsibility for the great need their actions have caused, said Mohamed Adow of Power Shift Africa, which tries to mobilize climate action in Africa. Princeton University climate science and international affairs professor Michael Oppenheimer said in an email that if high-income and other big emitters like China want the U.N. convention on climate change to remain useful, "they will need to grapple seriously with loss and damage. Otherwise, he said, negotiations are headed for interminable gridlock. Poor countries with low emissions can simply refuse to discuss anything else until the issue is resolved, Oppenheimer said. Richer countries may find a way around the issue without paying for direct damage by paying poorer nations more to adapt to lessen future disasters, but even then developed nations will have to pay out money, not just make promises as they have in the past, he said. Guterres remarks highlight what small islands and least developed countries have been arguing for decades that loss and damage is irrefutable and already disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable countries and communities, said Adelle Thomas, a climate scientist from the Bahamas. We are reaching a breaking point, where developed countries must respond instead of continuing to delay action with empty promises and prolonged discussions," she added. ___ Borenstein reported from Washington ___ Follow APs climate and environment coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment ___ Follow Edith Lederer and Seth Borenstein on Twitter at @edithledererAP and @borenbears ___ 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. GENEVA (Reuters) - The United Nations has revised up its humanitarian appeal for Pakistan five-fold to $816 million from $160 million as it seeks to control a surge in water-borne diseases following the country's worst floods in decades, an official said on Monday. Nearly 1,700 people have been killed in floods caused by heavy monsoon rains and melting glaciers in a crisis that the government and the U.N. have blamed on climate change. "We are now entering a second wave of death and destruction" Julien Harneis, U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for Pakistan said at a Geneva briefing. "There will be an increase in child morbidity and it will be pretty terrible unless we act rapidly to support the government in increasing the provision of health, nutrition and water and sanitation services across the affected areas," he said. (Reporting by Emma Farge; Editing by Riham Alkousaa) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis; Rep. Mary Peltola; Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Beto O'Rourke; Rep. Mayra Flores Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis; Rep. Mary Peltola; Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Beto O'Rourke; Rep. Mayra Flores Credit - Joe RaedleGetty Images; Patrick T. FallonAFP/Getty Images; Nick OxfordThe Washington Post/Getty Images; Anna MoneymakerGetty Images This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox. The national mood is iffy at best, facing a coin toss for which party will emerge victorious this election season. Polls show both parties are competitive in key races, the money race is an afterthought, and airwaves are backfilled with super PACs spending when the candidates themselves forget to dial for dollars. And enthusiasm among voters is high, even if the motivators for each party to head to the polls are as different as can be. Still, elections are not national affairs. Each hamlet of roughly 700,000 Americans gets to pick its representative to the U.S. House, a few miles can separate a liberal stronghold in Washington state and a libertarian foothold in Idaho, and deep-blue Illinois and hard-red Indiana share a border. Anyone predicting a huge wave election would do well to consider this: a rising tide may lift all boats, but only if all boats are of the same size. And, to put it mildly, not all candidates or contests this midterm season are even in the same swimming pool. Localities matter in politics, and this year is a prime example of how just a few miles can make all the difference. This week, with roughly a month to go until Election Day, The D.C. Brief will be touring 15 bellwether races in House, Senate, and governor match-ups, offering primers on five of the most telling races in each category. For instance, what do voters need to know about that race in a majority-Hispanic district in Texas that sent a Republican to Congress for the first time ever? Or what about a race that could be a rematch between the first Alaska Native representing Alaska in the House and former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin? How are Latinos fracturing loyalties to Democrats going to affect the Senate races in Arizona and Nevada? In states with governors with White House ambitions, will the opposition party be able to shut down their dreams? (Florida, Im talking about you. Texas, not far behind. New Hampshire, maybe. And Virginias governor is playing his own long game.) Story continues A running theme throughout is how the national mood may be completely irrelevant to each race. After all, voters in Ohio may well split their ticket and support Republican Gov. Mike DeWine and Democratic Senate hopeful Tim Ryan with the same ballot. It is looking more and more like New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu and Sen. Maggie Hassan could each be taking victory laps at respective GOP and Democratic headquarters this fall. And Oregon could find its first Republican governor since 1975. This political moment is one that feels oddly uneasy, but thats not inherently a bad thing. Predictable politics make for a weak democracy. The partisans who are treating November as a fait accompli are missing the undercurrents in parochial races, where highly qualified candidates have already fallen to lesser rivals. While voting is underway in a handful of places already, the political landscape is still a live one, and the outcomes are far from settled. So while all of our friends like to gab about politics at the macro level, its worth diving into a few of these specific ecosystems to examine political quirks, local deviations, and individual candidates that work. After all, the smart political consultants looking to land contracts for 2024s money-soaked presidential contest are already out there. If you want to land in the White House, a relatively cheap way to field test a strategy is to win a race in a swing state. The 15 races The D.C. Brief will explore this week are the ones I have my eye on. Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter. A student organization at the University of Chicago is hosting a discussion on race that is "BIPOC-Only." The student organization, UChicago United, is hosting an event titled "Race @ UChicago" as part of its "Dis-orientation" on Oct. 15 that is listed as a "BIPOC-Only space." BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous and People of Color. "A BIPOC-ONLY space for honest discussion of navigating race at UChicago between new and old students," the event description reads. Other events being hosted by the organization during the fall semester include radical story hour, policing, gentrification, abolition, anti-militarism 101 and activist open house. CHICAGO POLICE SAY 3-YEAR-OLD SHOT AND KILLED AFTER ROAD RAGE INCIDENT: 'BABY KILLERS ON THE STREETS' UChicago United's "Dis-orientation" is a series of events "aimed at educating first years about the real University of Chicago." Participants of all events are required to wear a mask, and the student organization wrote "the pandemic is not over. we keep us safe!" The organization also created a campaign called "CareNotCops," which was in response to the shooting of a student, Charles Thomas, by a University of Chicago Police Department officer on April 3, 2018. DEFUND THE POLICE PUSH, LIBERAL POLICIES DRIVING CHICAGO BUSINESS EXODUS, HURTING POOR THE MOST: EXPERTS Body camera video from the police officer who shot the student shows that Thomas was shouting and coming toward officers with what police say was a crowbar. A police officer told Thomas multiple times to drop the object, but he ran in the direction of the police officer and was shot, according to the Chicago Sun Times. According to the report, Thomas was going through a mental health episode. In response, UChicago United demanded that the university "immediately defund the [University of Chicago Police Department] by reducing its budget by 50 percent," "disarm the UCPD," disclose the police department's budget" and "disband the UCPD by 2022." Thomas was charged with aggravated assault as well as criminal damage to property, but those charges were dismissed since Thomas went through a court diversion program in place for first-time felony offenders. UChicago United didn't respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital. Michigan Medicine nurses have approved a four-year, $273 million contract with University of Michigan Health after months of working without a new agreement in place. Nurses represented by the University of Michigan Professional Nurse Council, a local bargaining unit of the Michigan Nurses Association, approved the new contract that includes: A 22.5% raise during the four years of the contract. A $5,000 bonus for each nurse this year. Current nurses still employed at Michigan Medicine will receive a $2,000 retention bonus March 31, 2026. Elimination of mandatory overtime for most units, except for defined emergency situations. Expanded staffing guidelines. Nurse practitioners will be in a new salary step model. All other nurses will receive a 7.5% pay raise in the first year. All bargaining unit members will receive a 6% pay increase in the second year, 5% increase in the third year and 4% in the fourth year, according to a release from the university. More:University of Michigan nurses reach tentative contract deal More:Michigan families now can learn details of medical errors that harm or kill Michigan Medicine nurses and supporters march around the hospital buildings during a UMPNC informational picket for safe patient care and fair contract at Fuller Park in Ann Arbor on July 16, 2022. 'Better place to work for generations to come' The union's bargaining team said in a Facebook post that an overwhelming majority of members voted to ratify the tentative agreement and the new contract will take effect immediately. Its post called this an "enormous achievement" and "(f)or the first time ever, there will now be monetary penalties if the employer does not safely staff the hospital." "This is truly history. All of us should feel proud that we have won a new contract that will make Michigan Medicine a better place to work for generations of nurses to come," according to the union's post. We thank all the teams who worked tirelessly over the last few months to bargain for a fair agreement that reflects the expertise and commitment of our nurses, and our shared interest in moving University of Michigan Health forward together, U-M Health President Dr. David Miller said. Story continues More:Union representing nurses at University of Michigan sues over workload More:Michigan Medicine nurses rally for new contract, say mandatory overtime needs to end More than 1,000 nurses hired Our exemplary nurses are a valued and crucial part of our world-class health care team, Chief Nurse Executive Nancy May said. We believe this generous package will help us continue to retain and recruit excellent nurses. We look forward to working with our nursing community as we continue our efforts to bring top-ranked health care to our patients and communities across the state and beyond. Michigan Medicine said it has implemented a nurse recruitment program and is on track to have a record-setting year with 1,058 nurses hired from July 2021 to May of this year. It said its current vacancy rate is 5% compared with a national average vacancy rate of 17%. University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Wednesday, March 11, 2020. The nurses had been working without a contract since June 30, and voted last month to authorize a work stoppage as part of an unfair labor practice strike. Before the contract expired in June, nurses appealed to the university's Board of Regents seeking an end to mandatory overtime, improved nurse-to-patient ratios and higher compensation. When that didn't lead to a deal, about 1,000 nurses rallied in Ann Arbor in July. Soon after, the union sued in the Michigan Court of Claims, asking for an injunction to bargain workload ratios immediately, pending a ruling by the Michigan Employment Relations Commission, where an unfair labor practice charge was filed. Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter: @challreporter. Support local journalism. Subscribe to the Free Press. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: U-M nurses approve new contract with raises, bonus You can switch carriers without buying a new device. Heres how. By Melanie Pinola Changing wireless providers can sometimes save you big money. It can also help if you are traveling abroad or if you want to get the most value when selling your old phone. But before you make the switch, you may have to unlock your phone from your current carriers network. Unlocking your phone isnt hard to doand its completely legalbut a little help can go a long way, because the process varies from phone to phone and carrier to carrier. If you didnt make a point of buying an unlocked model when you purchased your phone, its likely tied to your current network. When you buy a locked phone, it will work only on that carriers service, says Richard Fisco, who oversees electronics testing at Consumer Reports. According to the Federal Communications Commission, however, the carrier must unlock your phone for free after youve fully paid off the device (or coughed up an early termination fee). In some cases, the carrier will push a software update to your phone, then all you need to do is insert the new carriers SIM card and youre good to go. Or you might need to enter an unlock card before you can install a new SIM card. If you have a phone thats compatible with eSIM, such as Apples new iPhone 14 phones and several Android devices, moving to a new carrier is easierbut youll still need to have your current carrier unlock your phone. The process can take up to two business days, but once its done, youre free to take the phone to another wireless carrier. To be clear, this doesnt cancel your service; it just gives you the option to move to a new provider with your current phone. If youd rather not handle this yourself, you can pay for a service to unlock the phone. But be careful: People have been caught running fraudulent unlocking schemes in the past. Do your research, Fisco says. And theres really no reason you cant handle this on your own. Its easy. Story continues Heres what you need to do. Make Sure Your Phone Is Compatible With the New Network While most phones can work with any carrier in the U.S., someespecially older, less expensive devicesmight still be confined to specific network types. In the past, two standards divided carriers: Verizon used a standard called CDMA, while AT&T and T-Mobile used GSM. The quickest way to confirm that your phone is compatible with a new network is to type the IMEI (international mobile equipment identity) number, a unique identifier for every mobile phone manufactured, into an online tool on the carriers website. Almost every carrier, whether one of the three largest or a smaller provider, will have a section on its website where you can use your IMEI to confirm that your phone is compatible. Heres how to find the IMEI. On an Android phone: Go to Settings > About phone. The number should be on that screen. On an iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down to find the number. If you dont see the IMEI/MEID there, the number may be etched on the SIM tray or engraved on the back of the phone. Next, head to the new carriers website and insert the IMEI number into the tool. Here are the appropriate pages for AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. On top of all of that, if you have a 5G-compatible phone, youll also want to make sure it works on your new carriers 5G network. While your phone may operate perfectly well on your new carriers 4G or LTE network, it might not have the hardware built in to connect with the networks 5G signals. You can check your manufacturers website for more information, or just give your new carrier a call. And while you have a representative on the phone, you might as well ask if theyll just give you a phone locked to their network free of charge, or at least at a heavy discount. The wireless carriers are embroiled in a never-ending war for each others customers and will often offer hefty incentives if they think itll get you to switch. What You'll Need Once youve paid off the phone and confirmed that it will work on the new network, get ready to unlock the phone. Be sure to keep the IMEI number handy because youre likely to need it again. Additionally, you should have some other info ready before you start. The list includes the account number, account holders name, Social Security number, and the phone number attached to the device you want to unlock. If youre in the military and about to be deployed overseas, the carriers will expedite the unlocking process, but youll need to provide proof, so gather up your deployment papers, too. Ready to go? Choose your carrier and complete the final steps. Unlock a Phone on AT&T Go to AT&Ts unlock page and select Unlock your device. Youll need to agree that you meet the eligibility requirements, then submit the form. Among the requirements: If you paid off your installment plan early, youll need to wait 48 hours after you make your final payment to submit the unlock request. After that, youll get a confirmation email with the unlock request number. Click the link in the email within 24 hours to confirm the unlock request. If you wait too long, the request will be canceled. AT&T will respond within two business days to confirm that your phone is unlocked. Heres AT&Ts SIM unlock policy. Unlock a Phone on T-Mobile This carrier restricts how many devices you can unlock in a 12-month period, which can create problems for those on a family plan. If you ask to have more than two T-Mobile phones unlocked in a given year, the company will deny your request. To unlock a T-Mobile device, go to T-Mobiles unlock page and follow the steps listed for your phones manufacturer. If 40 days have passed since you bought your phone through the carrier and your postpaid account is in good standing, T-Mobile will unlock your phone. The company may send you an unlock code or ask you to unlock your phone via a T-Mobile app. You can also have your phone unlocked by calling 611 from your T-Mobile phone or 800-937-8997. Heres T-Mobiles SIM unlock policy. Unlock a Phone on Verizon This carrier automatically locks any phone bought through Verizon for 60 days. After that 60-day period, your phone is unlockedwith no extra steps needed. To confirm that your phone is unlocked, you can dial *611 from the device or call Verizons customer service at 800-922-0204. Heres Verizons SIM unlock policy. More from Consumer Reports: Top pick tires for 2016 Best used cars for $25,000 and less 7 best mattresses for couples Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright 2022, Consumer Reports, Inc. Seven states across the country continue to see unusual levels of threats to election workers, senior FBI officials said in a briefing Monday. Those states are Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Nevada and Wisconsin all states where the 2020 election results were questioned, officials noted. President Biden won each of those states. FBI officials are discussing how to deal with these threats as state officials in 8,800 election districts prepare for the midterm elections next month. Since June 2021, the FBI has received more than 1,000 tips concerning threats to election workers, according to the agency. Roughly 11% of those tips have led to FBI investigations. FBI officials say a majority of the threats appear through emails, on election-related websites and in phone calls, while a smaller portion of threats are made in person. Federal law enforcement officials continue to watch out for "foreign malign influence" campaigns by adversaries, as they have since 2016. Senior FBI officials said Russia and China remain the "prime culprits." That said, federal investigators are not aware of any cyber campaigns targeting elections at this time. The country's top election security official broke down in a recent interview as she discussed the vitriol targeting election officials. "It's unnerving," Kim Wyman, the senior election lead at the nation's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), told CBS News in her first TV interview since accepting her new role. "Threats like 'we're going to hang you.' And 'I hope somebody puts a bullet in your head.'" "Just hateful": Public servants had lives upended by threats after Trump's claims of a stolen election CBS News cybersecurity expert and analyst and former director of the CISA Chris Krebs said threats against election workers need more attention. "We do need local law enforcement, I think to get more involved in investigating threats, protecting election workers themselves, ensuring that they're not being doxed, or their public information or their personal contact information is being released so they can get- so they get more threats," Krebs said on CBS News "Face the Nation" in an interview that aired Sunday. Story continues "So this is an area that I think Congress needs take a hard look at, are the right deterrence measures in place from criminal statutes," Krebs continued. "And then do we have the investigation techniques? It is, you know, I personally have received a significant number of death threats and other-other threats. And some of them come in through anonymous- through anonymous means like protonmail. We do need more attention on these threats. Otherwise, we're going to see a shortage of election workers." Nicole Sganga contributed to this report Biden meets with DeSantis during Florida trip to survey Hurricane Ian damage Former NASA astronaut discusses successful launch of Crew-5 mission Florida man rescues 86-year-old mom after Hurricane Ian floods her house The US and its allies would eradicate Russias military troops in Ukraine and sink its Black Sea fleet if Vladimir Putin uses nuclear weapons, said former CIA director David Petraeus. Just to give you a hypothetical, we would respond by leading a Nato a collective effort that would take out every Russian conventional force that we can see and identify on the battlefield in Ukraine and also in Crimea and every ship in the Black Sea, said Mr Petraeus speaking to ABC News on Sunday. The retired four-star general, however, clarified that he has not spoken to US national security advisor Jake Sullivan about the possible US response. Tensions are on the rise since Mr Putin warned that the country would not hesitate to use various weapons of destruction with former president Dmitry Medvedev giving a more direct threat about Russias right to use nuclear weapons to defend its territories. On being questioned if Russias use of nuclear weapons would be construed as an attack on Nato members, Mr Petraeus said that one can make that case. The other case is that this is so horrific that there has to be a response, so cannot go unanswered, he said, adding that Nato allies should not respond by deploying their own nuclear weapons. But it does not expand. It is not nuclear for nuclear. You dont get into a nuclear escalation here but you have to show that this cannot be accepted in any way. He, however, said that Russia is losing in Ukraine and the battlefield reality that Mr Putin faces is irreversible. The comments came as Moscow withdrew troops from Lyman, a key city in Ukraines Donetsk region, days after it announced annexing four areas of the war-torn country through a referendum that Ukraine slammed as a propaganda show. The retired general lauded Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky for having mobilised forces better than Russia as he added that the country recruited... trained, equipped, organised and employed forces incomparably better than Russia has. Story continues "And the reality facing Russia now is that Ukrainea country a third the size of Russia has a bigger, much more effective army on the ground," he said. "So he faces a situation that I think again is irreversible. Theres no amount of shambolic mobilization, which is the only way to describe it, no amount of annexation, no amount of even veiled nuclear threats, can actually get him out of this particular situation. "He announced the annexation, hes already lost a really critical element in that critical city that would have been a very key supply hub had they been able to go farther and thats just going to continue. Hes going to continue to lose on the battlefield." Last month the Russian president passed partial mobilisation order in the country, prompting over 260,000 locals to flee to nearby states. The orders also sparked heated protests in the country with several civilians chanting no to war, in the country as videos of violent confrontations between the demonstrators and police. President Joe Biden said Monday that the United States will place "further costs" on Iran in response to the violent crackdown against "peaceful protestors" in the country. "This week, the United States will be imposing further costs on perpetrators of violence against peaceful protestors. We will continue holding Iranian officials accountable and supporting the rights of Iranians to protest freely," Biden said in a statement. Biden said he is "gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protestors in Iran, including students and women, who are demanding their equal rights and basic human dignity." "The United States stands with Iranian women and all the citizens of Iran who are inspiring the world with their bravery." Widespread street demonstrations sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, 22, who died following her detention by morality police for allegedly breaching the country's strict Islamic dress code, are in their third week. Biden gave no indication of what measures he was considering. Iran is already under crippling US economic sanctions largely related to its controversial nuclear program which Tehran insists has only civilian purposes but the international community suspects is secretly aimed at building an atomic weapon. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday said the United States and Israel are fomenting the unrest. But White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the students "are rightly engaged with the Iranian government's treatment of women and girls and the ongoing violent crackdown on peaceful protests." "This weekend's crackdowns are precisely the sort of behavior that drives Iran, talented young people to leave the country, by the thousands, to seek the dignity and opportunity elsewhere," she said. "We're alarmed and appalled by reports of security authorities, responding to university students' peaceful protests with violence and mass arrests." Story continues - Nuclear negotiations continue - Despite the tension, the White House spokeswoman made clear that the administration sees its ongoing negotiations to salvage an international deal with Iran over its nuclear program as separate. "We have concerns with Iran," she said, but the complex international proposal known as the JCPOA -- which seeks to ensure Iran can't build a nuclear weapon in return for lifting sanctions -- "is the best way for us to address the nuclear problem." "As long as we believe pursuing JCPOA talks is in the US national security interests, we will do so, and so at the same time, we will continue to use other tools to address other problems with Iran's behavior." Jean-Pierre raised a historical analogy, noting that Ronald Reagan negotiated with his Soviet counterparts on nuclear weapons treaties while doubling down on US opposition to the communist regime on other matters. "Even at the height of the Cold War, as President Reagan was calling the Soviet Union an 'evil empire,' he was also engaged in arms control talks," she said. "He knew on the one hand we had to push back vigorously against the repression of the Soviet Union, and at the same time we had to protect and defend the security of ourselves, allies and our partners," she said. sms/jh A new mission is being established at U.S. European Commands headquarters in Germany to oversee how the U.S. trains and equips Ukrainian troops, according to a report by the New York Times. The plan for a formal structure in Wiesbaden, Germany, for the U.S. efforts to aid Ukraine following the Russian invasion in February was presented by EUCOM commander Gen. Christopher Cavoli to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in late September, according to the Times. Citing an unnamed source within the U.S. military and Biden administration, the Times reported that the new command would include approximately 300 personnel, and would likely report to Cavoli. While the commands headquarters would be situated in Wiesbaden, training would likely take place at other U.S. bases in Germany, such as Grafenwoehr or Hohenfels, where the Army has large ranges. A final decision on the command is expected within the next few weeks. In close coordination with our Allies and partners, we continue to take steps to align our support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in a more unified manner in order to aid the Ukrainians with their most urgent needs on the battlefield against the Russian invading force, EUCOM spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Daniel Day told Military Times in a statement. At this time, any additional changes or moves to improve our ability to support the Ukrainians are pre-decisional, but as previously stated, we continue to take steps to better align our support. Signs of a potential re-structuring have been seen in recent weeks, as a multi-national logistics cell the International Donor Coordination Center moved from Stuttgart to Wiesbaden earlier this summer. The co-location with the U.S. Army Europe and Africa headquarters, as well as XVIII Airborne Corps increases the ability of the organization to rapidly support Ukraine operations, EUCOM said in a statement regarding the Aug. 6 move. The U.S. military began its mission to train Ukrainian troops well before Russia launched its full-scale war earlier this year. The initial efforts began in 2015, following the separation of Crimea from Ukraine. Story continues U.S. troops, in addition to forces from Canada, Lithuania, Denmark, Poland, Sweden and the United Kingdom, have been training Ukrainian forces through the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine. Initially stationed at the Combat Training Center-Yavoriv near Lviv, in western Ukraine, the troops were removed just before the invasion began. United States military units support the training to strengthen relationships and affirm the United States commitment to European partners, a press release from the Army stated. Army National Guard brigade combat teams provide the main support to the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine mission in nine-month rotations as part of the Armys rotational model. The U.S. military also still has thousands of troops positioned across Europe in response to the invasion, including in Poland, Romania, Germany, Latvia and Lithuania. To date, the U.S. has committed more than $16 billion to Ukraine. MANILA, Philippines (AP) More than 2,500 U.S. and Philippine marines joined combat exercises Monday to respond to any sudden crisis in a region long on tenterhooks over South China Sea territorial disputes and increasing tensions over Taiwan. The annual military drills are the first major exercise between the longtime treaty allies under newly elected Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., military officials said. His predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, was an outspoken critic of U.S. security policies and frowned on military exercises with American forces he said could offend China. Called Kamandag, the Tagalog acronym for Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea, the drills involve 1,900 U.S. Marines and more than 600 mostly Philippine counterparts in mock amphibious assaults and special operations, U.S. and Philippine military officials said. Americas HIMARS missile launchers and supersonic fighter jets will take part in live-fire maneuvers that will end on Oct. 14, they said. The venues include the western island province of Palawan, which faces the South China Sea, and the northern Philippines, across the Luzon Strait from Taiwan. Philippine Rear Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia said the exercises will focus on enhancing coastal defenses and are not directed against any country. Japanese and South Korean forces will participate as observers but may join in disaster-response drills, he said. The military maneuvers are being held simultaneously with combat exercises between U.S. Marines and Japanese army forces on Japans northern island of Hokkaido that involve about 3,000 military personnel from the two sides, U.S. military officials said. U.S. Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron of the Japan-based 3rd Marine Division said the simultaneous exercises are aimed at bolstering the defensive capabilities of the U.S. alliances with the Philippines and Japan through realistic combined training. These exercises will allow our forces to strengthen interoperability and readiness to ensure we are prepared to rapidly respond to crisis throughout the Indo-Pacific, Bargeron said in a statement. Story continues Our strength, resolve and commitment to our allies and partners in the region are our most effective deterrent, U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Kurt Stahl told The Associated Press. Together, we can deter potential adversaries from ever testing our capabilities or our relationships. In July, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on China to comply with a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated Beijings vast territorial claims in the South China Sea and warned that Washington is obligated to defend the Philippines under a 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty if Filipino forces, vessels or aircraft come under attack in the disputed waters. The ruling was issued by an arbitration tribunal set up in The Hague under the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea after the Philippine government complained in 2013 about Chinas seizure of a shoal off its northwestern coast. China did not participate, called the arbitration decision a sham and continues to defy it. In addition to China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims in the busy waterway, where an estimated $5 trillion in goods passes each year and which is believed to be rich in undersea gas and oil deposits. Separately, U.S. President Joe Biden said last month that American forces would defend Taiwan if Beijing tries to invade the self-ruled island, sparking protests from China. The long-simmering sea disputes and the increasingly tense relations between China and Taiwan have become key fronts of the U.S.-China rivalry. ___ Associated Press journalist Aaron Favila contributed to this report. The US Supreme Court, in a decision with potentially far-reaching ramifications, agreed on Monday to hear two cases challenging the legal immunity of internet companies from liability for content posted by their users. One of the cases accepted by the court was filed by the family of Nohemi Gonzalez, a 23-year-old American who was one of the 130 people killed in the November 2015 Islamic State attacks in Paris. The complaint alleges that Google violated the US Anti-Terrorism Act by recommending IS videos that incited violence on Google-owned YouTube. "Google's services have played a uniquely essential role in the development of IS's image, its success in recruiting members from around the world, and its ability to carry out attacks," according to the complaint. Under Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act, social media companies such as Google, Facebook and Twitter are not considered to be publishers and are not legally liable for content posted by their users. A lower court ruled in the Gonzalez case that Google enjoyed legal protection under Section 230, which its backers claim is essential to protecting freedom of expression on the internet. Section 230 has come under attack, however, from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, with the left claiming tech companies are promoting far-right hate speech and the right alleging it allows the firms censor conservative voices. Among those who have been critical of Section 230 is former Republican president Donald Trump, who was banned from both Twitter and Facebook after the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol by his supporters. The other related case accepted by the Supreme Court involves a lawsuit accusing Twitter of abetting terrorism in which a lower court declined to rule whether the messaging service enjoys a legal shield under Section 230. cl/bgs Some 84% of Pennsylvania students passed a newly required civics exam, part of a wave of similar mandates pushed hard by Republican lawmakers around the country, but one that hasnt come with strict accountability. Arizona was among the first states to adopt such a measure in 2015. Pennsylvanias test, signed into law by the governor in 2018, took effect two years later amid a flurry of conservative-led education initiatives, many aimed at curtailing classroom discussions about the history of racism in America. While some states allow schools to develop their own assessments around civics, others use the citizenship test administered to new immigrants. Several states do not require schools to report their results, and the mandate often carries with it no additional funding. Thats led critics to wonder if the push is largely symbolic and some civics experts to find the movement wanting. Donna Phillips, vice president and chief program officer for the Center for Civic Education, said states requiring civics exams for students should support the effort so they and their teachers can dig deep into the topic. Donna Phillips, vice president and chief program officer for the California-based Center for Civic Education, questioned the use of the citizenship test as a means to impart civics lessons. The naturalization test, for someone who is not in education, social studies or civics, is an easy grab, she said, but its incomplete. While it might be better than nothing for those states that do not offer civics in other courses, its minimal on its own, requiring only rote memorization rather than critical thinking, she said. Related: In Pursuit of a Better Democracy or Something Else: Oklahoma Latest State to Require High Schoolers to Pass Citizenship Test Data shows nearly 109,000 Pennsylvania students were assessed in the subject in 2020-21, the last school year for which data was available, and nearly 92,000 passed. The state, a highly watched battleground in the upcoming midterm elections, has 500 school districts ranging in size from 200 students to more than 140,000. Some reported the results for the entire district in one pass/fail number while others sent individual outcomes for each school. Story continues In some cases as seen in Allegheny Valley, Interboro and South Fayette Township school districts nearly all children passed. In others including Annville Cleona, Southwest Leadership Academy, and some 9th graders within the School District of Lancaster half failed. Nearly 18,000 students earned a perfect score. Taking civics to heart in central Pennsylvania Todd Cammarata, a social studies teacher at Tyrone Area High School in central Pennsylvania, said all citizens not just those who go through the naturalization process should have a basic understanding of government, history, culture and geography. Its easier to get buy-in from students on the importance of civic education when I ask them, Do you think every natural-born U.S. citizen should know what we expect naturalized citizens to know? he said. Their answer is almost always Yes. No test is perfect, Cammarata said, which leads to other important lessons. The only woman specifically mentioned on the (U.S. citizenship) test is Susan B. Anthony and the only civil rights leader or person of color specifically mentioned is Martin Luther King, Jr., he said. So we discuss what they think might be missing from the test or things that are there that are not necessary. This usually leads to a lively discussion of whats important for citizens to know. Senior Chloe Case (Class of 2017) , social studies teacher Todd Cammarata, and junior Chloe Makdad (Class of 2018), work on a presentation in the large group instruction room at Tyrone Middle and High School in Tyrone, PA. (Ellie Oakes) Less than 10% of Cammaratas students pass the test on their first try that initial attempt is a practice test meant to assess their civics knowledge but nearly all sail through the exam months later, he said. Some score exceptionally high: Roughly 15 of 45 students last year answered all 100 questions correctly, exempting them from Cammaratas final exam as per the teachers promise. Austin Lucas, 15 and a 10th grader, was among the few who passed the test on the first try. It was stuff I learned in school years before, he said. I have a pretty good memory. Logan Rumberger, 16, also in the 10th grade, didnt know enough about the House of Representatives to earn a passing mark on the first go-round but is confident hell score higher on the actual test. Like many of Cammaratas students, he believes all those who live in the United States should have this basic knowledge. Other people have to take it to become U.S. citizens, he said of the naturalization test. If we are born here, I feel we should know about our country. Related: 74 Interview: Generation Citizen CEO Elizabeth Clay Roy on Why Civics Education is Patriotic And Why Shes Hopeful About Americas Future Phillips, of the Center for Civic Education, said educators are wise to go deeper than the exam itself. State-level social studies specialists and their district-level counterparts can really do a lot to move beyond the nature of the test, she said, particularly when results are reported to the state and passage is mandatory for graduation. In that case, she said, the topic gains importance and those who work in social studies acquire influence. A lot of times, when assessments are offered only in ELA, math and, in some cases, science, social studies is left behind, she said. Getting a seat at the table at the state level is an advantage. Required, but not reported Arizona, which mandated a civics requirement in 2015, recently toughened standards and now requires schools to report the results to the state and make them public online. Utah adopted the civics requirement in 2015 and it went into effect the following year. State officials dont keep track of test results because it is not a state-administered exam. But a spokesman for the state department of education said Utahs graduation rate last year was 88.1%, so it is safe to assume that it (the statewide passage rate) is at least that high. Wisconsins law also passed in 2015, but didnt take effect until the 2016-17 school year. Since that time, students must correctly answer 65 of 100 civics questions to graduate and may retake the test until they reach that goal. Results are not reported to the state: They are kept at the district level. Minnesotas civics requirement began with students in grade 9 in the 2017-18 school year. Since that time, theyve been required to correctly answer 30 of 50 questions pulled from the countrys naturalization exam to pass the test. Passage, though, is not a graduation requirement and results are not reported to the state. West Virginia has a similar policy. Kentuckys policy, which requires students to pass a 100-question civics test, took effect July 1, 2018. The exam was suspended in 2020 during the pandemic. Related: Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene Endorsed Conspiracy Theories About the Parkland Shooting. A Civics Teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas Turned It Into a Lesson Some states requirements have not yet gone into effect. New Hampshire begins July 1, 2023, when students will be required to pass a locally developed civics exam covering the structure, function, and history of the United States government; the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and noteworthy government and civic leaders. Aspiring graduates must also correctly answer 70 percent of 128 naturalization test questions. Educators look for their knowledge to extend well beyond high school. I am hopeful that my students retain some of what the citizenship test teaches them, but I am even more hopeful that students take their rights and responsibilities as citizens seriously as they become adults, Cammarata said. Charles Snead at Zebulon's Grotto According to Daily Press King William County, Virginia, is pursuing legal action against gay-owned Zebulons Grotto a clothing optional bed and breakfast and campground. In July, owner Charles Snead was denied an effort to expand his LGBTQ-friendly resort by the countys Board of Supervisors and now he faces legal action over alleged zoning violations. Zebulons Grotto, which features its own lake and Greek statues, is a popular destination for nakations, but Daily News reports that Sneads neighbors arent fans of its scale of activities. In August, one neighbor, Peter Mason, accused Snead of zoning and building violations and demanded the Board of Supervisors take action, asking, Whats being done to resolve these violations? Why should anybody apply for any permit if theres never any enforcement for violations? Snead described complaints as inaccuracies and lies, at the meeting. County Attorney Andrew McRoberts noted that there is ongoing legal action against Snead, saying in an email to Daily News, The county has issued numerous notices of violations against Zebulons Grotto, has filed a lawsuit to enforce the zoning ordinance and building code, and achieved an order from the court confirming certain violations and ordering compliance with those violations. Over the past several years, Zebulons Grotto has reportedly been the target of repeated zoning citation for exceeding occupancy. This years complaints include refurbishing freight containers into a commercial kitchen, converting a storage building into a guest house, and building camping platforms with roofs all without the proper permits. Snead was reportedly previously ordered to stop offering day passes, to end special events, and to limit his guests to 14 a night: eight at the B&B and six in the campground. Sneads effort to expand the campground was shot down by the Board of Supervisors in a 4-1 vote. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to provide unanticipated legal representation to fight for the right to continue to operate. Story continues The effort, posted by Steven Hoy says the 36-acre clothing-optional retreat prides itself on being an LGBTQIA-friendly environment offering a judgment-free oasis for individuals to escape their hectic lives and experience the wonder of naturism. The GoFundMe campaign describes the zoning issues as fueled by opposition and discrimination by a conservative countyin an attempt to 1) remove existing permits, 2) prevent ZG from obtaining necessary permits to comply with zoning and building ordinances and 3) discriminate against our black, gay, & naturist-owned business and business owner. It adds, Zebulon's Grotto is a labor of love and the culmination of years of hard work for its owner, Charles Snead, a retired landscape architect who has invested over 25 years in making this space a reality. (Bloomberg) -- Most Read from Bloomberg Vodafone Group Plc said its in discussions with Three UK-owner CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. about combining their British businesses, a long-speculated tie-up that would create the UKs largest mobile operator. Newbury, England-based Vodafone would hold 51% of the combined business and Hong Kong conglomerate CK Hutchison, 49%, Vodafone said in a statement on Monday, adding theres no certainty a deal will be reached. CK Hutchison also confirmed the talks separately. The ownership stakes would be determined by relative allocations of debt, and there wont be a cash consideration, the statement added. A potential deal between Vodafone and Three UK has been talked about for years, and Vodafone has previously teamed up with CK Hutchison in other markets such as Australia. Vodafone expressed interest late last year in acquiring its smaller rival, Bloomberg previously reported. Shares in Vodafone rose 2.6% to 103.74 pence in London trading at 1:55 p.m., and earlier gained as much as 3.6% on Monday following the statement. The advanced talks were reported earlier by Sky News. By combining our businesses, Vodafone UK and Three UK will gain the necessary scale to be able to accelerate the roll-out of full 5G, Vodafone said in the statement. The merged business would challenge the two already consolidated players for all UK customers, it added, referring to BT Group Plc and Virgin Media O2, which both struck mergers in recent years and offer fixed and wireless services. Vodafones statement added that both it and Three struggle to earn back their cost of capital in the UK, citing regulator Ofcom, and said the UK is at risk of losing opportunities from next-generation 5G wireless technology. Story continues Vodafone has become increasingly vulnerable after losing half its market value in the last five years. Chief Executive Officer Nick Read is trying to merge units with rivals in several key markets, while facing pressure from shareholders including Europes largest activist fund, Cevian Capital AB. A vehicle backed by French billionaire Xavier Niel also bought a 2.5% stake in Vodafone last month, citing opportunities to accelerate deals. Read has openly said hes pursuing a deal in the UK, and Three UK CEO Robert Finnegan has likewise said he wants to consolidate the market. Read also said he wants deals in Spain, Italy and Portugal - but its been a bumpy road. Rival Orange SA clinched the biggest likely deal in Spain, and Read turned down an offer for Vodafone Italy from Niels Iliad SA. However, along with the UK talks, there are other signs of progress for Vodafone: On Friday it announced it agreed to acquire small Portuguese rival Nowo. Private equity giants including KKR & Co. are vying for a stake in Vodafones mobile mast business Vantage Towers AG, Bloomberg reported last month. And in August, Vodafone agreed to sell its Hungarian business in a deal valued at $1.8 billion. Regulatory Hurdle A Vodafone-Three merger would face intense antitrust scrutiny. Telecommunications companies are paying billions to build faster and more efficient 5G and fiber networks, while revenues stagnate amid competition from challengers and Big Tech. Still, regulators have previously blocked combinations that would reduce the number of operators in each market. In 2016, Three was prevented from buying Telefonica SAs O2 business in the UK by the European Union with backing from British watchdog Ofcom. In 2020, however, that decision was toppled by the European General Court, and a final ruling on the matter from the European Court of Justice in the first quarter of next year could pave the way to more deals, according to analysts at Moodys Corp.. Another test case comes with the merger of Orange and Masmovil Ibercom SA in Spain, agreed in March. The UKs Competition and Markets Authority might consider remedies to maintain retail competition, including requiring the merged firm to reserve a portion of network capacity for virtual players, said Assembly Research analyst James Robinson in an emailed comment, referring to virtual mobile network operators which dont own their own networks, such as Tesco and Sky. He added that he expects the CMA will want to protect against consumer price rises amid a cost of living crisis in the UK. (Updates with background throughout. An earlier version corrected the spelling of Vodafone in sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. Vodafone shop front Vodafone is in talks with Three about merging their UK businesses. It would mean the third and fourth largest mobile phone networks respectively combining to create a business with 27 million customers, larger than current leaders BT, EE and Virgin Media O2. The companies say it would accelerate the rollout of 5G and rural broadband. Any deal would be scrutinised by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Reports suggest the two companies are hopeful of striking a deal by the end of the year. Vodafone said it would own 51% and Hutchison - which operates Three - 49% under the deal being discussed. Chances of approval? Regulators have previously opposed mergers that would reduce the number of networks in the UK. However, Vodafone has pointed to a recent report from communications regulator Ofcom which might suggest a new approach. It found that both Vodafone and Three had in recent years delivered returns on investments that were lower than the cost of the capital they used. But James Robinson, from communication market analysts Assembly, said there would still be hurdles to overcome for the merged firm. "While the parties might view consolidation as a way to improve returns and unlock shareholder value, we expect the CMA would be eager to protect against the risk of consumer price rises - particularly in light of the current cost-of-living crisis," he said. He suggested the merged firm may need to provide "legally-binding concessions" to reassure regulators. 'Motivation is scale' Ben Wood, an analyst at CCS Insight, told the BBC that the potential tie-up was to be expected. "The two companies have made no secret of their interest to consolidate," he said. "The leading motivation to join forces is scale. In telecommunications, the most successful companies tend to be the largest; bulking up would offer many synergies and cost-saving opportunities. "Under the status quo, it's hard to see either operator growing enough organically to get close to challenging BT and Virgin Media O2 for size in the UK. Story continues Vodafone pairing with Three is just one potential tie-up in the UK. Other deals involving Virgin Media O2, TalkTalk and Sky have been speculated in recent months. "By combining our businesses, Vodafone UK and Three UK will gain the necessary scale to be able to accelerate the rollout of full 5G in the UK, and expand broadband connectivity to rural communities and small businesses," Vodafone said in an update to shareholders. "The conditions to ensure thriving competition in the market need to be nurtured, otherwise the UK is at risk of losing the opportunity to be a 5G leader," it added. Ofcom said it did not have a fixed position in relation to market consolidation. "Our view is that potential mergers in telecoms markets need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis, rather than on a presumptive view of the appropriate number of competitors," it said in its latest report. A sign for free food and water in Fort Myers Beach on Sunday (AFP via Getty Images) I moved to Venice, Florida from New York earlier this year to be with my mother after my father died. My parents chose Venice for its beauty and affordability when they retired 10 years ago. The neighborhood is in classic Gulf Coast style: a small, gated community with cookie-cutter stucco houses filled with older couples who made the same retirement choice my mom and dad did. My politics are well-known to my new neighbors. They fly Trump flags and sport Lets go Brandon bumper stickers, while I grow organic beets under the palm trees and listen to NPR all day. In normal times, they chuckle at me as I charge my electronics with foldable solar panels and I giggle to myself when I hear NASCAR blaring from their TVs. We are cordial to one another. We stop and chit-chat about the weather when our dogs meet on the otherwise empty streets. We are polite. And every now and again one of them will rib me about Sleepy Joe Biden or Crooked Hillary. I laugh with them. I prefer to be happy and have peace with my neighbors more than I care about being right. But now, all that has changed. As Hurricane Ian made a last-minute turn towards Venice last Wednesday, we were alerted that our neighborhood was just outside the mandatory evacuation zone. Between that bit of information and the typically fickle nature of hurricane trajectories, almost all the residents in our subdivision decided to stay in their homes. The day before landfall, the usually dormant neighborhood was suddenly alive. The Snowbirds (retirees who split their time between northern states in the summer and Florida in the winter), yet to make it south, called to ask their Florida neighbors to help put up storm shutters, sandbag the doors, cut their screens to reduce damage and we did. People who were making last-minute food, gas, or water runs checked in with others to see if they needed supplies and got enough for whomever was lacking. The Herculean effort of hurricane preparation was divided and conquered. In the work, we learned more about each other, laughed, and voiced our fears about the storm ahead. Story continues Then Ian arrived. In Venice, we were more fortunate than our neighbors to the south in Fort Meyers, but not by much. For the duration of the hurricane, my mother and I hunkered down between two mattresses in an interior closet with our emergency supplies and my cat, Velvis. We held one another as we waited. We waited for the roof to be torn off, we waited for the water to start pouring under the door, we waited for it to end. We lost power almost as soon as the wind began whipping waves onto our street. The incessant, deafening roar of the storm was punctuated with louder, even scarier noises like when parts of the roof would fly off or hundred-year-old trees were sucked out of the ground and slammed into the side of the house. Sixteen harrowing hours in the eye wall of a hurricane is not something Id like to do again. As frightening as the actual storm was, I knew the real difficulty would be the days and weeks ahead. Thats when you have to assess, clean up, and repair, usually under terrible circumstances. Mom and I stepped out of that closet and into an unrecognizable world of destruction. Roof tiles litter the ground (Diane Neal) We still have no power and no estimate of when it will be restored. Based on the severed power lines that litter the streets and massive trees hanging in the wires that didnt snap, I cant imagine power will be back on anytime soon. The streets, now somewhat drivable, were completely impassable for days. Many were deeply flooded, with fish swimming in them, and gator warnings issued for residents to steer clear of the water for fear of storm survivors becoming lizard lunch. We had no cell service until this past Saturday, so no one had news of any kind except what we heard from others. The others had, in turn, heard it from someone else who had dared venture out into the unknown. All we had was the literal word on the street. Cell service is back now, but there isnt enough connection to check the internet or open an app. However, you can text and sometimes make a call. The landline doesnt work. I asked a friend in New York to pull up the government websites and give me a status report, one I could share with the neighborhood. As of this weekend, we were still in the red. That means: stay off the roads, no emergency services, no updates, no anything. I havent asked anyone to check today, but Id be surprised if it has changed. We did not have any water, except an intermittent trickle, for days. Today there is finally enough pressure that I can flush the toilet without hauling buckets of water into the pitch-black bathroom, and I might even be able to wash my stinky hair. We are under a boil water notice, but with no way to boil it, so I must keep the water out of my eyes and mouth or risk illness. And, of course, with no way to heat the water, it will be a cold shower when I get one, but in the air-conditioning-free heat, that wont be unwelcome. The subdivision, though littered with downed trees, debris, and parts of homes, is full of people doing their very best. Everyone is checking up on each other, helping where they can, lending what they have to share. Our neighbor to one side, a nimble man in his late 70s, got up on our steep and slippery roof with me and patched up more holes in 30 minutes than I did in two hours. It was incredible. Our extra tarps cover another neighbors roof that caved in during the storm. Rakes and shovels and saws are being passed around, house to house. A communal clothesline stretches through yards so we can all dry the various things we used to mop up the flooding in our homes. Power lines have been destroyed (Diane Neal) But now, so long after the storm without resources, it could get dire. Those with gas generators are running out of fuel. And there is none available for miles in any direction. Even those who found a gas station that was still functional and had a fuel supply have waited for up to eight hours in line to get what they could. The people here with gas generators usually have them to run medical equipment that is critical to their health, or to refrigerate vital medicines. Most of my MAGA neighbors have them. But now they are running out of a way to keep them going. Food is rotting in warm freezers and fridges, and the standing water everywhere is breeding swarms of mosquitoes. Although resources are dwindling, the concern and care for each other is not. I imagined, as things further deteriorated, that people would get more protective, selfish. But I was dead wrong. Yesterday, one couples son drove five hours on side roads (because highway I-75 was closed) to get them a generator and extra gas. We helped him unload his big truck, covered in Trump/Pence stickers, trying not to spill a drop of the precious liquid. The couple immediately handed off two of the three gas cans to others who had run out. Those neighbors each used some, then passed on the familiar red canisters to the next household in need, and on and on until they were empty. This son also brought ice. Loads of it. Without hesitation or asking, the couple gave us half. It is like manna from heaven in this heat to have a cool drink, to save food, and to have more potable water. If that generosity couldnt be topped, the couple even had their son pick up extra dinner just for us. Strombolis. After almost a week of eating emergency supply food, nothing has ever tasted so good. And that is the least of the aid, the help, and the sharing that has emerged from this terrible situation. The smiles, conversations, and concern continue in our little, flattened part of the world. No doubt, there are many difficult days ahead for all of us, especially as we struggle without basic needs. But we are lucky it could have been worse, and our hearts ache for those who lost far more than their property. To be sure, there are politicians who will need to account for their decisions that contributed to the havoc wreaked by Mother Nature, and I am sure all of us here on these blocks will disagree on who those liable parties are. But that is for another day. I used to judge a person by their politics. I am ashamed I did. This disaster has reminded me to measure people by their actions, not by who they vote for. And I hope my neighbors will give me the same courtesy; that they will now see me not as the limousine liberal that moved in with her mom, but as a real friend. Like all true friends, we will work to get through this together. Stephen Graham stars in The Walk-In. (ITV) ITV launches into a gritty new drama this week with The Walk-In, starring Stephen Graham. But what is the series about and is it a true story? Here's all you need to know about The Walk-In. When is The Walk-In on TV? The five-episode drama airs weekly on ITV at 9pm, starting this Monday (3 October) and continuing on Mondays. What is The Walk-In about? Is it a true story? Stephen Graham plays activist Matthew Collins. (ITV) Viewers may well find many parts of the series plot familiar, as it is based on a true story of recent events. Written by Jeff Pope (Philomena, Stan & Ollie) it follows the story of how a Neo-Nazi plot to kill an MP was brought down by an inside man. Read more: The 7 best shows on TV this week Matthew Collins is an activist and reformed Neo-Nazi who was forced to flee the UK in the 1990s after turning mole on the BNP, but has returned to Britain as a journalist for the anti-racist organisation, Hope not Hate. Collins targets far right groups with walk-ins to expose their activities. (ITV) He is dedicated to stopping the radicalisation of young white men into far right groups by using moles, or walk-ins, to bring them down from the inside, but has struggled to infiltrate one particular group offering a youthful image while peddling violent racism. Collins did not manage to break into the group before things escalated towards the horrific murder of Jo Cox MP, and although the group became the first far right organisation to be banned by the government since the Second World War, he was convinced they had simply been driven underground. Read more: Patsy Palmer first celebrity announced for Dancing On Ice 2022 Thinking that he has missed his chance to put an end to their activities, Collins is feeling hopeless - until one day, he is contacted by a young man claiming to be a member who wants to help him. He says there is a new plot to murder a second MP and wants to work as a mole against them, plunging both himself, Collins and the group's targets into an extremely dangerous situation. Who stars in The Walk-In? Leanne Best and Stephen Graham appear in The Walk-In. (ITV) Stephen Graham, known for his work in This Is England, Line Of Duty, Time, The Virtues and Help, plays the lead role of Collins. Story continues West End star Jodie Prenger also appears in the cast as DC Buckley. Other actors in the series include Jason Flemyng (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatch), Dean-Charles Chapman (1917, Game Of Thrones), Leanne Best (Four Lives), Andrew Ellis (This Is England) and Christopher Coghill (EastEnders). The Walk-In begins on Monday on ITV at 9pm. Watch: See the trailer for true-life drama The Walk-In, starring Stephen Graham Nearly a week after Hurricane Ian obliterated communities in Florida, the death toll continues to rise as rescue crews go door-to-door in some of the hardest-hit communities. While hundreds of thousands remained without power on Tuesday and roadways were still flooded, construction on a makeshift bridge broke ground to help those stranded on Pine Island, one of several barrier islands that suffered the full force of Ian's wrath. The death toll climbed on Tuesday after growing to 100 on Monday, with at least 110 confirmed U.S. fatalities blamed on Ian. At least 105 of those deaths occurred in Florida, CNN Newsource reported, as well as five in North Carolina, according to the governor there. In Florida, Lee County was the largest source of the casualties, with 55 deaths reported by county officials. The Associated Press also reported three fatalities in Cuba, where Ian struck before hitting the U.S. Most of the deaths from the hurricane were a result of drowning, but some have been blamed on harsh consequences in the aftermath of the storm, such as an elderly couple who died after power to their oxygen machines shut off. "Although the death toll from Ian is fluid and historical numbers are inexact, Ian is likely the deadliest tropical system for the state of Florida since the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, which killed over 400 people," AccuWeather Senior Weather Editor Jesse Ferrell said. New photos and videos emerging from the epicenter of where Hurricane Ian made landfall show the sheer power the storm packed. Homes are barely recognizable on Captiva Island, a barrier island in Lee County right near where Ian made its first United States landfall as a Category 4 storm. Footage captured by storm chaser Brandon Clement shows debris, fallen trees and power lines scattered around the island. Inside homes, watermark stains tell a harrowing tale about just how high the storm surge rose. Furniture can be seen scattered about, and the floors are covered in a mixture of sand and mud. Story continues Despite nearly a week having passed since Hurricane Ian brought torrential rainfall and catastrophic storm surge to Florida, river levels continued to rise Monday, and homes and streets in many places were still inundated. "The sandy soil in Florida can absorb light to moderate amounts of rain rather quickly, but when you get rainfall of 1-2 feet, even that can be overwhelmed," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski explained. "It can take a long time for that to drain off." Officials warn the floodwaters will make for a dangerous situation as rescue and recovery efforts continue. "We see so many more injuries and sometimes more fatalities after the storm," Deanne Criswell, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency told Fox News Sunday, The Associated Press reported. "Standing water brings with it all kinds of hazards -- it has debris, it could have power lines." GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Officials said thousands of people had been rescued in the days since the storm left its vicious mark. The federal response to the ongoing search-and-rescue process could be one of the biggest ever. "We pre-positioned the largest amount of search-and-rescue assets that I think we've ever put in place before," Criswell said during her appearance on Fox News Sunday. President Joe Biden is expected to travel to Florida Wednesday to visit areas that were ravaged by Ian. On Monday, Biden visited Puerto Rico, which is still recovering from Hurricane Fiona's powerful strike two weeks ago. Lee County officials have come under scrutiny about whether they provided residents with ample warning to evacuate. According to the Orlando Sentinel, officials along much of the coastline ordered residents to evacuate Monday, but Lee County officials "pondered" the decision, waiting to see how the forecast evolved overnight. By Tuesday, Lee County officials issued the evacuation notice. According to Lee County's evacuation strategy plan, the delay is an apparent violation and may have contributed to fatal consequences as the death toll continues to rise, the Orlando Sentinel reported. Over the weekend, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis defended the state's early preparations for Hurricane Ian as questions arose on whether or not hard-hit areas, like Lee County, received enough advance warning to evacuate, Politico reported. "When we went to bed Monday night, people were saying this is a direct hit on Tampa Bay -- worst-case scenario for the state," DeSantis told reporters as he defended the Lee County officials who issued the evacuation notice on Tuesday instead of Monday. Lee County includes Sanibel Island, Pine Island, Fort Myers Beach and Fort Myers -- some of the worst-hit places. GIF Fort Myers Hurricane Ian Hurricane Ian heavily damaged homes and resorts on Captiva Island, Florida. (Brandon Clement) Imagery from Clement revealed that many houses on barrier islands in Lee County did not stand a chance from the powerful winds and storm surge Ian delivered. A blue house, along with a few other homes on Captiva Island, remained standing as surrounding buildings were brought down to their foundation. Debris could be seen scattered in all directions. On Monday, Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno stated that search-and-rescue teams have rescued 800 people thus far. Marceno said it is unknown how many people are still missing, and that rescue efforts are continuing, including the deployment of 100 National Guard members to Pine Island. DeSantis' office on Monday stated that as of 7 a.m. EDT Monday, more than 1,900 rescues had been made in the state, with more than 1,000 search-and-rescue team members deployed. The sudden surge of water during the storm's landfall forced many residents who didn't evacuate to seek shelter on roofs or in attics. Fort Myers residents described the water pushing through their doors and walls. "Within 30 minutes it was up to my door and within an hour it was pushing through my door," Jeannel Thyl, a Fort Myers resident, told AFP. Before and after satellite imagery from Maxar showed just how devastating the hurricane was to the state. Neighborhoods have disappeared and coastlines were left changed. Flooded roadways and crumbled bridges left many people stranded with limited cellphone coverage and no water, electricity or internet. DeSantis said at a press conference on Sunday that construction of a temporary passageway for Pine Island will begin this week, the AP reported. "It's not going to be a full bridge," the governor said. "You're going to have to go over it probably at 5 miles an hour or something, but it'll at least let people get in and off the island with their vehicles." On Tuesday, DeSantis directed the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to send more than 130 trucks to construct a temporary bridge to Pine Island "by the end of the week." Florida first lady Casey DeSantis stated that the Florida Disaster Fund had raised nearly $35 million within the first five days of the fund website's activation. State figureheads have been making donations to the fund, such as Tampa Bay Buccaneers superstar Tom Brady, who called upon the "rest of the NFL family in our state" to also help recovery causes. Another donation, a $280 life-savings haul from the piggy bank of 7-year-old Dominic D'Andrea, gained popularity on social media Tuesday. Florida officials said on Monday that some schools in the southwestern part of the state could open as soon as this week, once power and water are restored. However, it could be much longer before schools in the hardest-hit locations welcome students back. As of Monday, 46 districts were open in the state as a whole, with DeSantis' office stating that "many more" would be opening later in the week. Yolanda Rios, center, holds her grandchildren Ava, 7, and Giovanni, 5, as she waits for an airboat to take them through floodwaters from the Peace River to get to a hospital for medical care in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on Arcadia, Fla., Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) As of early Wednesday morning, around 320,000 customers were without power in Florida, a sharp drop from a peak of 2.6 million outages Thursday morning, according to PowerOutage.US. On Monday, officials in Lee County said that the power outage in Fort Myers Beach could last at least a month. Lee County still had over 180,000 customers without power as of Tuesday evening, with neighboring Charlotte County at around 62,000 outages, nearly a 50% restoration of outages from Tuesday morning's figure of 120,000. "It's horrible. As they say, it's like a war zone. Everything that you used to know is gone," Alice Barrett, a Fort Myers Beach resident, told AccuWeather National Reporter Bill Wadell. "I mean, there's very few buildings that are standing. It's hard to imagine. From this beautiful place that you love -- it's all gone. It's just hard." The shocking scenes of destruction hint at how sweeping and long-lasting the impact across Florida will be felt. The economic fallout caused by the storm will be immense, AccuWeather Founder and CEO Dr. Joel N. Myers said -- on par with some of the worst hurricane damage in U.S. history. According to Myers, the total losses caused by Hurricane Ian will amount to between $180 billion and $210 billion in the U.S. "Ian will go down as one of the most damaging and impactful storms in U.S. history, along with 2017's Hurricane Harvey, which caused $190 billion in total damage and economic loss," Myers said. "The economic impact of this storm should not be underestimated," Myers added. "At $200 billion, that amounts to 1 percent of our national GDP, which is a significant hit on the economy and the entire country and could even be the difference between growth and recession, causing the Federal Reserve to keep from raising interest rates further for the remainder of the year." The bridge leading from Fort Myers to Pine Island, Fla., is seen heavily damaged in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on Pine Island, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. Due to the damage, the island can only be reached by boat or air. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) When Ian made landfall last Wednesday in southwestern Florida, it unleashed relentless wind gusts across the peninsula. The highest official reported wind gust was 128 mph, recorded by a WeatherFlow station in Grove City. However, locally higher wind speeds that weren't officially observed may have also occurred. Rainfall across the state was staggering, too. In just 24 hours, automated rain gauges reported as much as 31.52 inches of rain near Ponce Inlet, a coastal community northeast of Orlando. Rainfall totals combined with the ferocious storm surge wreaked havoc on barrier islands and areas close to the coast. In addition to the flooding rainfall and relentless wind Ian brought to the Sunshine State, a cluster of tornadoes touched down over South Florida from Sept. 27 to Sept. 28 - the day before and day of landfall. According to the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), there were 11 confirmed tornadoes across the southern third of the state. Of those, the strongest tornado surveyed by the NWS office in Miami was an EF2 near Kings Point, just south of West Palm Beach. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app.AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE (Reuters) -The White House on Monday denounced the crackdown by Iranian security forces against peaceful protests in Iran, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. "We're alarmed and appalled by reports of security authorities' responding to university students' peaceful protests with violence and mass arrests," she told reporters traveling with President Joe Biden to Puerto Rico. The ongoing protests are in response to the death two weeks ago of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was beaten by security forces for wearing an "improper" hijab. Jean-Pierre said university students in Iran are "rightly enraged" by her death and that the weekend crackdowns are the type of events that prompt young people in Iran to leave the country "and seek dignity and opportunity elsewhere." She gave no indication that the crackdown would impact U.S. efforts to resurrect the Iran nuclear deal, which then President Donald Trump abandoned in 2018. (Reporting by Jeff Mason and Steve Holland; Editing by Chris Reese and Sandra Maler) It feels like weve reached a point of no return with all the new skin care brands out there. In the last nine months, more than 18 celebrities have launched their own skin care lines and thats not counting influencers or established beauty brands. Everything thats come out within the last few years seems to blur together with its minimalist packaging: monochrome containers, simple logos and brand names written in a familiar font. Prep your skin like a pro for a flawless makeup application: Turns out, its true. Thousands of brands are using the same fonts, style and even text spacing on their products. Jennifer Carlsson, a Stockholm-based beauty brand strategy consultant, has been into beauty for years. Her master beauty spreadsheet organizes over 25,000 brands listed in different tiers, with information on each brands products, packaging, logo style, aesthetic and marketing terms to name a few of the factors at play. Ive been trying to build an objective database on what brands are doing well, to look at the patterns, she explained. Industry insider information is really numbers-based. Sales numbers, she said, dont tell the whole story: Im looking more at the visuals and presentation of the brands, rather than just focusing on the sales. Carlsson said she usually has her spreadsheet open on one of her monitors throughout the day to refer to as she takes calls with clients. With her extensive research, she has the data to back up what distinguishes todays look. In September, Carlsson self-published a 22-page report focusing on beauty brand logos and statistics, to single out what makes the aesthetic of most beauty brands so similar. Designs are very simple compared to before, she said. A ton of brands have one color, no patterns, no extra design elements, simple typography and just the brand name or image on the product packaging. Its clean and simple. In her study, Carlsson found that 1,127 brands use a sans serif font. The font is typically either normal or bold, with normal spacing between the letters, and 1,055 brands use all uppercase for their names. Story continues In another report, Carlsson credited the start of the minimalist packaging trend to a Swedish brand, Byredo, which was launched in 2006. I can find pictures dated as far back as 2008, but they launched in 2006, and I cant find any indication that they had a different design earlier, she wrote. This also seems consistent with many referencing the aesthetic being inspired by Scandinavian minimalism.' Carlsson explained to In The Know that this trend isnt limited to the beauty industry. She said shes noticed that fashion has adopted a monochrome look and pointed out that website UIs fall into the same minimalist trends beauty brands are following. If you look at logos at most companies, youll see the same thing, she said. Overall, [simple logos are] something that people find very appealing right now. Why does everything packaging, logos, etc. look the same? For one thing, a lot of big beauty brands use the same design agencies. Fenty Beauty, R.E.M. Beauty and Rare Beauty all are packaging designed by Establish, Carlsson pointed out. Establish, a New York City-based agency, also works with Beautycounter, Marc Jacobs Beauty, H&M Beauty and Face Gym. Naturally, when an agency finds success with a certain look or marketing, its going to refer back to it for other brands. Another big factor in the transition toward minimalistic packaging is that now, more than ever, people are buying and researching beauty products online. The information is on the site, it doesnt have to be on the packaging, she said. So brands can [instead] focus on the design looking really good and being Instagrammable. Carlsson concluded from her research that the priorities for packaging involve striking a balance between looking like everything else and standing out. She pointed to the rise of skinfluencers skin care influencers and bathroom shelfies as an indication that brands want to have their products displayed alongside other beauty brands on Instagram. They want products to look similar enough to be included in the photo, but different enough to stand out from the rest of the pack. It gets the attention on social media, she explained. People see that and [say], I want my bathroom shelf to look like that.' Not every brand is able to tap into the simple and clean feel. Carlsson pointed to Honey Jarret, which was launched as a clean beauty brand in 2020, as an example of a brand that tried to go the minimalist route, but didnt find the same success as other similar-looking brands. They didnt quite get it, Carlsson said, referencing Honey Jarrets product packaging and website. The design is not quite there: The font is weird, the spacing is odd, the logo is just weird. It feels stock image-y on the platform. Credit: Honey Jarret A major difference between Honey Jarret and Rare Beauty, for example, is that Rare Beauty has a familiar face attached to it too Selena Gomez. But Carlsson doesnt believe that having a celebrity face trumps the importance of packaging. [The] celebrity brand thing is such a big debate within the industry too right now, people miss the point of it. Madonna has a beauty line, Carmen Electra has one did you even know that? she said. With celebrities, they have a lot of money behind them and they can afford to work with the best agencies to make custom packaging and get connections to get their products into Sephora at launch. But [these brands] would still do well without the celebrity [face]. Carlsson speculated that a lot of brands assume a celebrity or influencer is necessary for branding, but she argued that the crucial ingredient is having a face that consumers trust. We trust people more than we trust companies, and we trust people who are familiar to us, she explained. Theres more respect that theres someone from the industry or a specialist being the person behind [the brand] just there being someone who is accountable, who they can trust, is more important than [the person] being a celebrity. Why do so many beauty brands advertise that theyre clean beauty? What does that mean? The clean beauty movement is misleading. As of now, there is no specific regulation around what does or does not have to be in a product to be considered clean. To Carlsson, labeling something as clean is not as important to the consumer as some brands or retailers may think. To her, clean is just a popular marketing term that is ultimately meaningless and, despite what the influx of clean beauty products may have you thinking, isnt necessarily a hit with consumers. People just want to know whats in their products, she said, dismissing organic beauty and natural beauty as two other misleading marketing terms commonly used in the skin care industry. Clean beauty is the worst with greenwashing. Also, none of it has to do with being a sustainable brand. Sustainability is huge with beauty consumers. Greenwashing means that a company or brand outwardly promotes environmentally friendly initiatives but doesnt necessarily practice them. Carlsson does not use clean beauty as part of the organizing system in her database. She argues that theres truly no way of knowing how popular clean beauty brands are. If anyone gives you statistics on clean beauty, Id be skeptical. Who are they counting? she asked. Do you include the brands that call themselves clean but dont follow the strictest standard? Do you count brands following the standard but dont call themselves clean? And which standard [are they following]? Theyre all different and contradicting. So, whats next? Carlsson doesnt know how long the minimalist, monochrome designs and logos will be around. But, as shes noted with multiple trends over the years, there are always outliers that go against the grain and still find their niche in the market. With any trend, youre always going to see people going in a different direction, to stand out from it, she said. Carlsson pointed to brands like Starface, Topicals and Herbivore as a departure from the simple logo trend, without entirely deviating from the minimalist look. Starface, for example, uses a fun font in its packaging, but sticks to solid colors on its products mostly bright yellow. Ultimately, Carlsson argues, the packaging is super important but not as important as the effectiveness of the product itself. Still, whats important is whats in the product, she said. How much you enjoy the product determines if you buy it again. See this Manhattan apartment get an unbelievable maximalist makeover with just $1,000: The post Why does all beauty packaging look the same these days? Youre not going crazy appeared first on In The Know. More from In The Know: Why are people mad at TikToker Mikayla Nogueira? A since-deleted video from 2021 recently resurfaced Victor Ramos is not a one-trick pony: How the beauty influencer is breaking into pop culture without losing his audience Latinx and Hispanic entrepreneurs discuss how they've found success at In The Know by Yahoo's live event Practicing yoga while on vacation has some serious benefits that could enhance your travels. Everyone knows yoga is a great way to relax your body and mind. But adding it to your travel itinerary prepares you for a day full of adventures in a way youd never imagine. Yoga while traveling gives travelers an extra boost that jumpstarts their bodies no matter the time of day. No matter what destination youre visiting, youll find value in doing at least 15 minutes of yoga each day while out of town. Here are a few reasons why you should be doing yoga while on vacation. Encourages Waking Up Early Photo Courtesy of @Jenna_Walker. Doing yoga while on vacation can help travelers get better sleep at night. Trap Yoga Bae Britteny Floyd-Mayo says it is normal for people to have difficulty sleeping when far away from home. Yoga can help bring the mind back down to earth and prepare travelers for bed after a long day. Yoga is a great mini-retreat for the mind and the body, Floyd-Mayo said. At the end of a day of sightseeing, consider incorporating a few yoga poses into your bedtime routine to help you unwind. If you have a hard time waking up bright and early, you might want to add a few poses to the start of your day as well. Helps Decrease Stress Photo Courtesy of @bodybendyoga. Although traveling is always exciting, it can create stress and anxiety in the body. When the body is under increased stress, it creates high amounts of cortisol. Floyd-Mayo says yoga decreases cortisol levels and is a great way to calm down and de-stress while on vacation. When we practice yoga, we take some time to center ourselves and traveling can be really disorienting even if its for an exciting reason, she said. Travel journeys like group trips can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming dealing with so many personalities. Incorporating yoga into your travel plans provides you with an escape from the mayhem and gives your brain some mental relief to overcome social anxiety. Super Charge Your Immune System Photo Courtesy of @bodybendyoga. Floyd-Mayo said that whatever your mind experiences so do your body. So the mental stress and anxieties you experience when traveling can make you physically sick. Doing yoga is a great way to reduce those cortisol levels and keep illness at bay. Story continues When were anxious, we get adrenaline that makes your heart beat really fast, she said. So doing yoga helps get that cortisol to lower down and our body will experience less stress and less stress on your body means less illness. Overcome Jet Lag Photo Courtesy of @bodybendyoga. There are 38 different types of yoga that provide different benefits to your body. When it comes to relieving jet lag, Yen yoga is the best choice. Floyd-Mayo said Yen yoga involved minimal poses that allow your body to relax into them. This allows your brain to take a chill pill as your body catches up to the new timezone. I would do Yen when youre tired, jet lagged and youre just trying to catch up, she said. Do vinyasa yoga when you get into an argument on the trip, or you have a lot of anxietyit can help with both of those things, it just depends on what you need and the type of yoga youre interested in. Get Some Good Exercise & Increase Your Stamina Photo Courtesy of @Planetnehemiah. Yoga sometimes gets a reputation as a girly activity. However, the practice is deeply rooted in spirituality. Floyd-Mayo says yoga didnt become a physical exercise until it came to the US in the 70s. Believe it or not, a person can sustain their entire physical fitness by doing only yoga. If youre traveling and staying somewhere without a gym or fitness center, simply incorporating yoga into your day will give you the exercise you need to be supercharged for the day. Yoga Poses To Try While Traveling Photo Courtesy of Britteny Floyd-Mayo There are more than a few benefits to adding yoga to your next travel itinerary. However, Floyd-Mayo says yoga can also help you form beautiful memories in new places. Reminiscing on doing yoga poses in special places is something travelers can hold onto for a lifetime. Part of the reason most people travel is that they want to experience life from a different perspective and yoga is really good for that, she said. It helps you see things through different perspectives and lenses. And it helps you create memories. If you want to do some yoga on your next vacation or getaway, here are some poses to help you get started: (This Oct. 3 story has been corrected to add PL party's allies in 3rd paragraph) By Anthony Boadle BRASILIA (Reuters) - A strong election night for allies of President Jair Bolsonaro have given his party the most seats in both chambers of Congress, highlighting the enduring strength of his conservative movement even if he falls short of re-election. His right-wing Liberal Party (PL), won 99 seats in the 513-member lower house, up from 77, and right-leaning parties allied with Bolsonaro now control half the chamber. The bigger surprise in Sunday's voting was in the Senate where Bolsonaro's party and its election allies won 13 of the 27 seats up for grabs, a party spokesman said. "Against all odds and everyone, we won 2 million more votes this year than in 2018," Bolsonaro posted on social media in Monday's early hours. "We also elected the largest benches in the lower house and the Senate, which was our main priority." Bolsonaro helped elect allies to the Senate who had trailed in opinion polls, such as former ministers Damares Alves and Paulo Pontes. Alves, an evangelical ally, defeated the Senate candidate from Bolsonaro's own party. The strong right-wing showing in legislative and gubernatorial races, especially in more affluent southeast Brazil, made Bolsonaro the election's big winner. He also denied his leftist presidential rival Luis Inacio Lula da Silva outright victory and consolidated a political base that can help him govern if he wins the Oct. 30 run-off. While most political analysts still see former president Lula winning, his victory is no longer a slam dunk. Lula's Workers Party won 10 more seats in the lower house of Congress, where it remains the second-largest party with 68 representatives. But if elected, Lula will face a harder time getting legislation through a more conservative Congress. Bolsonaro's allies also made advances in state politics, including races for governor. Story continues His former Infrastructure Minister Tarcisio Freitas, who took part in motorcycle rallies with Bolsonaro, won the most votes for governor of Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest state, and will face Lula ally Fernando Haddad in an Oct. 30 runoff. Bolsonaro boasted of helping to get eight governors elected outright, with hopes of electing eight more in the second round. "This is the greatest victory for patriots in the history of Brazil: 60% of the Brazilian territory will be governed by those who defend our values and fight for a freer nation," he tweeted. Lula put an optimistic spin on the result, saying he was looking forward to another month on the campaign trail and the chance to debate Bolsonaro head-to-head. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle, Maria Carolina Marcello and Ricardo Brito; Editing by Brad Haynes and Grant McCool) Many female workers said they were persistently being called lady, sweetheart, or darling (Getty Images/iStockphoto) Women at work are more than twice as likely to be asked to make tea or coffee for everyone than men, a poll claims. The survey of 2,000 UK employees found gender-biased language and use of stereotypes is widespread within workplaces, with 42 per cent of women claiming they will be asked to make a round compared to just 16 per cent of men. Women were also more likely (50 per cent against 21 per cent) to be asked about the wellbeing of their children, and to do menial or administration-based tasks (37 per cent against 19 per cent). The research was commissioned by Samsung. It also emerged women were made the target of sexist jokes almost three times more often than men (43 per cent againt 15 per cent). Those polled said they heard gender-biased language in their workplace an average of four times a week. Specific instances included persistently being called lady, sweetheart, or darling and being referred to as a woman of my age after requesting a fan. Some 40 per cent had experienced this language in meetings and 30 per cent during job interviews. Tanya Weller, of Samsung, said: The findings have revealed some shocking stereotypes used towards women at work and how our choice of words is creating barriers to inclusivity in the workplace. Like all things, language adapts with time, and we know that as a society, we must evolve with it, by implementing a roadmap that drives greater equality and inclusion. However, the research suggests UK employees are starting to challenge this vocabulary, with 64 per cent saying they had done so. Of those, 28 per cent highlighted it to the person directly, 22 per cent reported it to their boss and 14 per cent went to HR. At the same time, 92 per cent said they were making a conscious effort to use inclusive language at work with terms such as team and all. However, 19 per cent have wanted to correct someone at work for not using such terms but chose not to because they didnt have the confidence. Story continues Jackye Clayton, of Textio, a language software company, said: Employers throughout the UK must take proactive steps to foster inclusive language, to attract talent and build a workplace which promotes inclusivity. With almost half of UK employees using gender-biased language at work, companies must do more to understand how and where unconscious bias is showing up and take action to remove it. Its only by doing this that companies can become truly inclusive to everyone. Carried out through OnePoll, the survey found just 20 per cent of employees were fully aware of what their company was doing to challenge gender-biased language. Actions they said they would like their employers to take include offering inclusivity training (47 per cent), training on gendered language (30 per cent), and a review of terms used in job descriptions (28 per cent). There is also support for a review of external messaging language as seen on company websites and careers pages (27 per cent), and a desire for positive messaging or signage in offices (24 per cent). Ms Weller added: These findings tell us the crucial role language plays in normalising gender stereotypes at work. Subtle phrases like Hi guys is something many of us say without thinking, but maybe without realising it, were alienating people. This acts as a great reminder to be thoughtful in the way we express ourselves as individuals and as businesses. A Sunday night crash on Interstate 75 southbound ended with one person dead. Atlanta police officials told Channel 2 Action News that a driver was driving the wrong way when he crashed into another car and killed the victim. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Around 11:56 p.m. police responded to a two-car crash near I-75/85 southbound and North Ave. The victim, who was driving a car going southbound on I-75, was pronounced dead on the scene. The initial investigation revealed that 30-year-old Honi Jones was driving the wrong way causing the head on collision. TRENDING STORIES: Jones was taken to the hospital and was last listed as critical but stable, according to police. Jones faces DUI, Reckless Driving, wrong way/one way, and homicide by vehicle charges. The identity of the victim has not been released at this time. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: By Mohammed Alghobari and Reyam Mokhashef ADEN (Reuters) -Yemen's warring parties failed to renew a U.N.-brokered truce deal that expired on Sunday, dashing the hopes of some Yemenis for a broader pact that would ease economic woes and prolong relative calm after more than seven years of fighting. United Nations special envoy Hans Grundberg said late on Sunday he would continue to push for an extended and expanded deal between a Saudi-led coalition and the Houthi group, both under intense international pressure to come to an agreement. "It is a sad day for the Yemeni people," said Abdullah Ali, a 58-year-old teacher in the capital Sanaa, where people rushed to stock up on fuel and food after the truce expired. "We hoped to start receiving our salaries and to move towards a ceasefire. We are shocked," Ali told Reuters by phone. Grundberg's proposal is for a six-month truce extension, a mechanism to pay civil service wages, and greater movement of goods and people in the country where 80% of the population of some 30 million rely on aid. In a statement, the United States expressed deep concern over the expiration of the truce and said the expanded U.N. proposal would help to start negotiations on a "comprehensive ceasefire and an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process that would durably end the war." The initial two-month truce was agreed in April and renewed twice despite grievances by both sides over its implementation. It allowed some fuel ships into Hodeidah port and some commercial flights from Sanaa, both held by the Iran-aligned Houthis. "I will continue my relentless efforts to engage with the parties to quickly reach an agreement on a way forward," the envoy said in a statement, urging the parties to maintain calm. The conflict, widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, has killed tens of thousands, devastated the economy and left millions hungry. Riyadh has been trying to exit a costly war in which the Houthis have launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Story continues The parties on Sunday accused each other of hampering peace efforts. The Saudi-backed government blamed the Houthis, de facto authorities in the north, for refusing the deal. The Houthis' Supreme Political Council criticised the U.N. proposal as lacking and threatened attacks on "airports, ports and oil companies of aggressor countries" if the military coalition led by Saudi Arabia does not lift its sea and air restrictions. The U.S. urged the Houthis to continue negotiations in "good faith" and work with the U.N. on an extended truce agreement. "The United States underscores the unacceptability of Houthi rhetoric threatening commercial shipping and oil companies operating in the region," U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in the statement. The coalition intervened in March 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from Sanaa. The group says it is fighting a corrupt system and foreign aggression. (Reporting by Mohammed Alghobari and Reyam Mokhashef; additional reporting by Ismail Shakil; writing by Ghaida Ghantous; editing by Jason Neely and Lincoln Feast.) Gov. Glenn Youngkin appeared Monday morning in the Hill City to unveil his 2022 Virginia Energy Plan, a plan he says will push the commonwealth all in on innovation to find ways to provide low-cost, renewable energy for residents and businesses. Youngkin spoke at Delta Star Inc., a power transformer manufacturer on Mayflower Drive in Lynchburg, to a factory full of state and local leaders as well as Delta Star employees. The cost of a clean energy future does not have to come at the cost of a healthy, resilient and growing economy, Youngkin said during his speech. The governor added the root of his plan starts with rejecting the false choice that the commonwealth must choose between renewable energy and energy that is reliable and affordable. The idea that you cant have both is just pure politics, Youngkin said. And it does not belong in a plan that is so important to Virginias future. Youngkins plan has five guiding principles: reliability, affordability, innovation, competition and environmental stewardship. To accomplish many of the goals of his plan, Youngkin said, We need to be all in on nuclear energy in Virginia one of the reasons the Hill City was selected as the place to announce the plan. He acknowledged leadership from BWX Technologies, a Lynchburg-based manufacturer of nuclear fuel and components that supplies products and services to both the U.S. government and commercial industry, and Framatome, a French nuclear reactor company with North American headquarters in Lynchburg. The two companies together employ thousands in the Lynchburg region. Youngkin said Virginia is in a unique position to lead on the nuclear energy front. Sen. Mark Warner also visited Lynchburg in September to discuss nuclear power opportunities in the commonwealth. Youngkin said he has his eye on building the worlds leading nuclear-energy hub in Virginia, and said his moonshot plan is that Virginia will launch the first-ever commercial small modular nuclear reactor to serve customers in Southwest Virginia within the next 10 years. Energy innovation, like small modular reactors, will not only honor our calling to environmental stewardship, it will also deliver economic development opportunities, job creation ... and a tremendous place to live, work and raise a family all across the commonwealth, Youngkin said. We need to advance policies that deliver a more reliable, more affordable, clean energy grid. Del. Kathy Byron, R-Bedford, spoke during Mondays event and said it was fitting the plan was rolled out in Lynchburg with the focus being on nuclear energy. There is no better way to provide clean energy for Virginia than increasing our use of nuclear energy and exploring the commercial use of emerging nuclear technologies, like small modular reactors, Byron said. Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg, said Lynchburg is going to be a hub for energy, mentioning Delta Star Inc. and the two nuclear-industry companies. Newman said he believes the governors new plan allows consumers to win due to lower cost of their energy bills. During his closing remarks, Youngkin criticized California for many of its energy issues in recent months, even mentioning its government has been forced to ask residents to turn off electricity to save power. The governor warned under current standards, we are on the same path as California when it comes to energy. Many of the issues in states such as California, Youngkin said, come down to the ideology that only wind and solar can in fact be considered clean. If we are only to rely on wind and solar, Youngkin said, we will end up importing from other states in our region, other states, all of whom will continue burning natural gas, burning coal, to meet our energy needs. Beyond using nuclear energy, the Youngkin administration is looking at regulated monopolies in Virginia that exist around energy; developing hydrogen-fueled facilities; and creating strategies that embrace an all-of-the-above plan that include natural gas, nuclear, renewables and the exploration of emerging sources to satisfy the growing needs of Commonwealth residents and businesses, according to the plan. Police on Monday identified the driver in Friday's fatal Campbell County crash as Dylan B. Covington, 19, of Lexington. At about 10 p.m. Friday, a 2008 Toyota Corolla was traveling west in the 2200 block of Bishop Creek Road when a tree fell across it, Virginia State Police said. The Toyota then ran off the road. Covington, who was wearing a seatbelt, died at the scene. "The conditions at the time of the crash involved heavy rain and strong winds. A second tree fell while state police were on scene investigating the crash. No one was injured by the second tree," Virginia State Police said in a news release. The Libertarian Party of Iowa is hosting a rally Wednesday night to decry the use of eminent domain for private companies, which has become something of a hot topic in Iowa since Summit Carbon Solutions and other private companies have asked the Iowa Utilities Board to use eminent domain to take private land for their carbon dioxide pipelines. The rally will feature remarks by Rick Stewart, Libertarian candidate for governor, and Bryan Jack Holder, independent candidate for Iowas 4th Congressional District. In 2005 the U.S. Supreme Court fundamentally changed the relationship between citizens and the government with the Kelo opinion, Holder said. In Kelo v. City of New London, the Supreme Court voted 5-4 to allow the City of New London, Connecticut, to take Susette Kelos house, as well as every other property in the towns Fort Trumbull neighborhood, via eminent domain and sell it to private developers. The Court ruled that so long as the land was going to benefit the public with new jobs and increased tax revenues, the government was allowed to seize private property. Previously, eminent domain required a public use of the property taken, with just compensation to the dispossessed landowners, Holder continued. After Kelo, the government now claims that the use of eminent domain to transfer land from one private owner to another private owner to further economic development does not violate the takings clause of the Fifth Amendment. This was a horrible opinion and its negative effects are being seen in Iowa. No homeowner should have to worry about losing their home to corporate greed. The Rally to Stop Eminent Domain Abuse is being held at the Council Bluffs Public Library, 400 Willow Ave., meeting room B, on Wednesday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m. For more information, visit lpia.org/event/rally-to-stop-eminent-domain-abuse-2022-10-05. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. The Tangier judicial police arrested, on Saturday, a Colombian national for alleged links with an international drug trafficking network operating via air routes. The Colombian, 41, was arrested, on the basis of accurate information provided by the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), while he was hiding in a house in the medina of Tangier, said the National Police (DGSN) in a statement. Field investigations and technical expertise have revealed the alleged involvement of the suspect in the piloting of a small aircraft that was discovered on September 20 after an emergency landing in the rural town of Hajar Al Nahl on the outskirts of Tangier, said the DGSN, noting that this aircraft have probably been used for international trafficking of drugs and psychotropic substances. A judicial investigation has been opened against the suspect to unravel all possible links with international drug trafficking networks and find all participants and associates in this criminal activity, in Morocco and abroad, in addition to identifying all the circuits of trafficking in question, including air routes. African Union chief joins regional leaders from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in condemning the removal of military leader Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba in a coup the second in less than a year as the United Nations has voiced concern about the situation in the country and the European Union denounced the coup. Burkina Fasos junta leader Damiba agreed to step down Sunday (October 2) , two days after military officers announced he had been removed from power, religious and community leaders said. Following mediation between Damiba and the new self-proclaimed leader, Ibrahim Traore, Damiba himself offered his resignation in order to avoid confrontations with serious human and material consequences, the religious and community leaders said in a statement. This is the second coup since January. Burkina Fasos new junta chief Traore, who met with cabinet officials on Sunday following the coup, promised to overhaul the military so it is better prepared to fight extremists. He accused Damiba of following the same failed strategies as former President Roch Marc Christian Kabore, whom Damiba overthrew in a January coup. Far from liberating the occupied territories, the once-peaceful areas have come under terrorist control, the new military leadership said, adding Damiba failed as more than 40% of the country remained outside government control. A few hours before events unfolded last Friday (September 30), hundreds of people rallied in the capital, Ouagadougou, seeking Damibas departure, the end of Frances military presence in the Sahel and military cooperation with Russia. On Sunday, large groups of protesters took to the streets of Burkina Fasos capital Ouagadougou, attacking the French embassy, burning tires and waving Russian flags. On social media, call-outs from unknown sources encouraged the protesters to take to the streets and prevent France from reversing the military coup. Both the new junta and the French embassy have denied France has any involvement in the coup. Officials in Chad on Saturday (October 1) extended the transition period towards democratic elections, saying they will keep the head of the military junta Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno on as head of state in the interim. Delegates taking part in a national reconciliation dialogue forum also agreed for the military leader to be eligible to run for the presidency when elections are held. This decision was made even though Deby had earlier pledged to hand back power to civilians after 18 months, a deadline that would run out this month and also that he would not run in the eventual presidential elections. The forum has been boycotted by most opposition members, two out of three key armed rebel groups and civil society organizations. In announcing the move Ahmat Barchire, rapporteur of the National Sovereign Inclusive Dialogue (DNIS) said that on the transition, the commission noted that there was a broad consensus to set it at a maximum of 24 months. But these decisions will face resistance from political parties, civil society and the African Union, said Chadian political scientist Evariste Ngarlem, adding that neither the European Union nor the United States would accept Debys eligibility to run or the extended transition period. Deby took over in April last year after his father, Idriss Deby Itno, the countrys ruler for 30 years, was killed during a military operation against rebels. Chad, one of the worlds poorest countries, has endured repeated uprisings and unrest since gaining independence from France in 1960. Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is hosting this October 3 and 4 the COP27s preparatory meeting (PRECOP27), a platform of exchange and debate that will bring together about sixty Ministers of Environment and/or Energy as well as representatives of negotiating groups, the UNFCCC Secretariat and representatives of civil society, ahead of COP to take place in Sharm el-Cheikh, in Egypt. John Kerry, the US envoy on climate, Alok Sharma, the President for COP26 and Egypts Foreign Minister and President-Designate of the 2022 UN Climate Change Conference (COP27) Sameh Shoukry are in attendance. The meeting according to the organizers is set to focus on the main issues that will be tackled during COP27, including efforts to reduce carbon emissions, climate change adaptation, climate finance, and the adverse impacts of climate change. As owner and guardian of the environmental potential sought by the world to face the challenges of climate change, the Democratic Republic of Congo presents its forests, mangroves, peatlands, freshwater resources, and strategic minerals as a natural response to climate change. The DRC is the Climate Crisis Solution Country, said Eve Bazaiba Masudi, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister Of Environment & Sustainable Development. Egypt is preparing to host COP27 between 6 and 18 November and has been keen to build on the success of the Glasgow summit (COP26) in a bid to turn climate pledges into actions. An appearance by the Kabyle independence leader Ferhat Mhenni at CNEWS, a French media close to Elysee, was canceled in the last minute on orders of French President Macron. Ivan Roufiol, the journalist who was supposed to interview Mhenni, was filmed saying he knew about the cancellation in the last minute and a manager of CNEWS refused to explain why the interview was abandoned. Is it the ElyseeAlgeria should have intervened, Mhenni told the anchor Ivan Roufiol who said he thinks there must have been pressure from Algeria. Mhenni is the leader of the MAK movement which leads a peaceful struggle for the independence of the restive Kabylie region. Algeria has declared the movement a terrorist group and asked France to extradite Mhenni and other Kabyle independence activists. Most MAK leaders live in France where they set up a government in exile. Their protests regularly bring together thousands of Kabyle expatriates yearning for independence. The censorship of Mhennis interview indicates that Paris is willing to please the aging authoritarian regime in Algiers at the expense of Frances values and to the detriment of freedom of speech. Algeria has asked France to arrest and extradite other dissidents, a request which Paris has rejected so far. But, this censorship of Mhenni rings the alarm bell among Kabyle independence activists and Algerian opposition figures in France as to the extent to which Macron is willing to go in order to please the authoritarian regime in Algiers. Turkiye and Libya on Monday signed a series of preliminary economic agreements that included potential energy exploration in maritime areas, the Turkish foreign minister said, emphasizing strong relations between Ankara and Tripoli. The agreements will allow for oil and gas exploration in Libyan waters and come three years after the two countries signed a maritime border deal. Speaking at a ceremony in Tripoli, the two countries foreign ministers Mevlut Cavusoglu and Najla Mangoush said they had signed memorandums of understanding (MoU) aimed at benefiting both countries. Weve signed a Memorandum of Understanding on exploration for hydrocarbons in Libyas territorial waters and on Libyan soil, by mixed Turkish-Libyan companies, Cavusoglu was quoted by daily Sabah as saying. Najla Mangoush, foreign minister in Libyas Government of National Unity, said the new deal was important, especially in light of the Ukrainian crisis and its repercussions for energy markets. The deals were signed as a high-level delegation was visiting the North African countrys capital for talks on bilateral relations and regional issues. In 2019, Turkiye and the Government of National Accord (GNA) signed an agreement over the Eastern Mediterranean, demarcating the two countries shared maritime borders to prevent any fait accompli by regional states. The two countries also signed a military cooperation accord. Guatemalan deputy foreign minister Ava Atzum Arevalo Tribouillier de Moscoso reiterated, Monday in Rabat, her countrys full support to the Morocco-proposed autonomy plan in the southern provinces, as the only solution to the dispute over the Moroccan Sahara, and announced the opening of a consulate in Dakhla. We fully support Morocco and its autonomy initiative in the Sahara, which we consider the only solution to this dispute, said the Guatemalan deputy minister at the end of a meeting with Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. We know that Morocco is a country with great potential. That is why we will open a Consulate General of our country in Dakhla, said the Guatemalan official. I am in Morocco today to prepare the visit to the Kingdom of our Minister of Foreign Affairs who will proceed next month to the inauguration of our Consulate in Dakhla, she added. Guatemala announced on September 23, 2022, through its Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mario Bucaro Flores, its decision to open a Consulate in Dakhla, reaffirming its support for the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty as the only solution to the regional dispute over the Sahara. For us, the concepts of sovereignty, peace and territorial integrity are very important. We support Moroccos position on this issue and we will continue to support Morocco forever, said the Guatemalan head of diplomacy in a statement to the press after a recent meeting with Bourita on the sidelines of the 77th UN General Assembly. Bucaro Flores seized the opportunity to hail the reforms undertaken in Morocco under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, and commend the kings contribution to the resolution of the problems of Africa and the Arab world by peaceful means. Last of three parts. Even on its 1,559th and last day of operation, North Platte wasnt alone in running its World War II Canteen. Women from North Plattes First Lutheran Church were joined that day by their counterparts from St. Johns Lutheran Church of Gothenburg in neighboring Dawson County. The latter church spent a total of 17 days at the Canteen, serving every eight weeks during the last years, the Gothenburg Times wrote April 4, three days after Canteen Commander Helen Christ and founder Rae Wilson locked the 1918 Union Pacific Depots dining-room doors for the last time. It was a fitting tribute, not just to them but also to Dawson Countys aid to North Plattes mission of hospitality to U.S. and Allied service members. Prompt, regular help Like Logan County, Keith County and North Plattes Lincoln County neighbors, Dawson County people quickly stepped up to help after the Canteens Christmas Day 1941 launch. Mrs. Lew Wonderling suggests, the Times wrote on Jan. 29, 1942, that Gothenburg people who wish to do something for the boys in the service could be of real help by getting behind the Canteen at North Platte. She offers the use of the Wonderling truck to transport supplies. Gothenburgs Platte Valley Community Club donated supplies to the Canteen that same day, The Telegraph wrote in its Jan. 30 issue. Gothenburg had 2,330 people in 1940, compared with 3,469 in 2020. By Feb. 6, the American Legion Auxiliary in Cozad (population 2,156 in 1940, 3,776 in 2020) was preparing to host the first of many regular Cozad Days at the Canteen over the next four years. This is a very definite way in which we can help our boys, and any day some of our own Cozad boys may be going through on a troop train, said the Feb. 6 edition of the original Cozad Local. At Cozads Canteen debut Feb. 12, hundreds of homemade cookies, popcorn balls, candy, stationery, apples, etc., which had been donated here were given to some 500 uniformed customers. On June 23, Lexingtons Legion Auxiliary led the first regular Canteen turn for the county seat that grew from 3,688 people in 1940 to 10,069 in 2020. Volunteers served some 2,000 customers, up to half of them Black soldiers riding a 17-car troop train, the Lexington Clipper (an ancestor of todays Clipper-Herald) wrote June 25. From Farnam to Buffalo Grove Nine Dawson County communities appear on the 125-member Honor Roll list that stretches from the Wyoming border to David City, from the South Dakota to Kansas lines and across the Colorado line into Sedgwick and Phillips counties. Farnam, which had 346 people in 1940 exactly twice as many as it had in 2020 hosted its first serving day on Dec. 5, 1942. A group of 73 Farnam volunteers may have been captured in U.S. Signal Corps film footage shot at the Canteen. Moving pictures were taken of the group at noon, the Times reported, with the Farnam Press supplying the date of Aug. 5, 1945. The first Canteen visit for Overton, which had 491 people then and 702 in 2020, was noted in the May 14, 1943, edition of the Elm Creek Beacon: The opportunity to serve some 3,500 eager soldiers traveling on 16 trains, both regular and troop trains, was a new and pleasant experience for 50 workers who made the trip to North Platte Sunday to truly make it Overtons day at the Canteen. Eddyville mustered 87 volunteers in and near their town to host the Canteen on Sept. 28, 1944. That represented more than one-third of the towns 1940 population of 237 a figure that had shrunk to 105 by 2020. Sumner, with 296 people in 1940 and 306 in 2020, joined North Plattes Episcopal Church of Our Savior in staffing the Canteen on July 28, 1945, the Daily Bulletin reported. And on Dec. 11, 1944, the Canteen tables were staffed by some 35 people from Buffalo Grove, based around a store and at least two country churches about 12 miles northwest of Lexington. They supplied 50 dozen eggs, 57 dozen cookies, 25 birthday cakes, 50 pounds of meat, one-half bushel of apples, 24 pounds of coffee, 90 loaves of bread, 14 quarts of pickles, five jars of sandwich spread, 19 pounds of butter, eight quarts of cream and three dozen doughnuts. Thirty-five dollars was also donated to help make Buffalo Day at the Canteen a big success, the Clipper reported Dec. 21. On Dec. 23, Buffalo Grove-area residents held a coyote hunt. Echoing similar regional Canteen fundraisers, hunters auctioned off their trophies to send funds to the North Platte volunteers. A near-fatal sacrifice Buffalo Groves example wasnt unique. The Canteen Honor Roll includes a few other communities that were never formal towns, like Thune in McPherson County and Lillian and Tallinn Table in Custer County. The Canteen also received regular help from small-town and rural church groups and service clubs, which often didnt wait for an organized community day to travel to North Platte and pitch in. The 2-Better-U Club was assisting the North Platte Canteen on Thursday of last week, the Local reported on Jan. 29, 1943. Twenty-one farm women in the Hillside Hustlers club, also northwest of Lexington, served almost 4,000 service members on March 24, 1945. Ten sons of individuals in the group are in the service, and with the shortage of help many of the members have had to assume added duties about the farm, the Clipper wrote March 30. Dawson Countys dedication to aiding the Canteen almost cost four Cozad women and volunteers their lives on Nov. 25, 1944. Driving back home on U.S. Highway 30, their car collided with a truck west of the Maxwell U.P. viaduct while coping with what the Times called a blinding snowstorm and icy pavement. Both drivers apparently were blinded by the smoke of a passing train and snow and did not see the other, the Kearney Hub added. Three of the women suffered serious injuries, including 36-year-old Mrs. Verne Dickinson. She suffered a deep gash above her knee when the truck fell on top of the womens car. Fittingly, a service member saved her life. The Hub said Pvt. Clyde Rowley, stationed at the Bruning Army Air Base in south central Nebraska, arrived a few seconds later and applied a tourniquet so she wouldnt bleed to death. After the Canteen closed, the Gothenburg Times whose Honor Roll town was there at the end recalled how North Platte-born U.P. President William Jeffers had supplied its permanent home. When Jeffers did so, the North Platte Canteen was on the way toward making World War II history, the Times wrote. Its not just North Plattes history. It belongs to all the 125 communities and 55,000 volunteers who won the lasting gratitude of 6 million service members who fought the Second World War. In partnership with Global patient advocate Ashley Ann Lora, AD Days Around the World explores the impact of atopic dermatitis (AD) on the lives of individuals around the world living with this chronic and debilitating skin disease The campaign features the emotional journey of four patient advocates from France, Italy, Germany and Spain and showcases the impact that AD has on people, regardless of culture or geography BALLERUP, Denmark, October 03, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LEO Pharma A/S, a global leader in medical dermatology, today launched AD Days Around the World, a global disease awareness campaign that highlights the experiences of people living with atopic dermatitis (AD) the most common form of eczema.1 In collaboration with patient advocacy organizations in France, Italy, Germany and Spain, the campaign shares real patient stories to educate and inform people living with AD that regardless of nationality or culture, there is hope to triumph over adversity, despite common everyday challenges. The campaign features Global patient advocate Ashley Ann Lora, who travels from the United States to France, Italy, Germany and Spain to meet with and document the emotionally compelling stories of four women Marjolaine, Laura, Julia and Africa who are living with AD, each at a different stage in their life. Through in-depth interviews, the documentary-style videos show audiences what it is like to live with and navigate the challenges associated with AD, and showcase how each of these resilient women has found peace, joy and empowerment over time. Their shared experiences and advice are as inspirational as they are informative. "People dont see eczema as a big deal, but it can cause so much suffering," explained Ashley Ann Lora. "My hope is that the experiences shared through these stories will help people living with AD feel seen, heard and connected to others around the world with this condition. I also hope these personal stories help others gain a better understanding of their own eczema and their relationship with this condition. People living with AD dont have to suffer; there are resources to help manage the condition and ways to enjoy life alongside it." Story continues "Atopic dermatitis is about more than just skin, and you never know where you might find your healing. For me, discovering dance and movement therapy transformed the way I see my eczema and today is a very important part of how I manage my condition," said Marjolaine, a patient advocate living in France. "It is not one size fits all and different things will work for different people. I hope that my story will help others battling with atopic dermatitis to find what works for them." The campaign offers access to these inspiring stories through www.ADDaysAroundTheWorld.com. Patients living with AD can watch the full video series featuring each patient advocate, learn more about AD, download a discussion guide to help facilitate better conversations with their healthcare professionals and access information about local patient advocacy organizations in each country. "LEO Pharma is proud to have the opportunity to work with these inspiring patient advocates on AD Days Around the World. We know dermatology goes beyond the skin, and in our industry, we have the responsibility to see the whole patient when it comes to care," said Christophe Bourdon Chief Executive Officer, LEO Pharma A/S. "Our hope is that through this campaign, and the inspiring stories of Africa, Laura, Julia and Marjolaine, other people living with AD realize there is life beyond an AD diagnosis and resources available to help them manage their skin condition." About atopic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterized by intense itch and eczematous lesions.2 Atopic dermatitis is the result of skin barrier dysfunction and immune dysregulation, leading to chronic inflammation.3 About Ashley Ann Lora Global patient advocate and campaign host Ashley Ann Lora has been living with AD for more than 25 years. As a passionate global advocate, she uses the power of vulnerability to speak up for patients and advises on the needs of the AD community. Through her social platform, she is able to connect with others to share her journey of living with AD and provide hope and optimism for others. About LEO Pharma LEO Pharma is a global company dedicated to advancing the standard of care for the benefit of people with skin conditions, their families and society. Founded in 1908 and majority owned by the LEO Foundation, LEO Pharma has devoted decades of research and development to advance the science of dermatology, and today, the company offers a wide range of therapies for all disease severities. LEO Pharma is headquartered in Denmark with a global team of 5,200 people, serving millions of patients across the world. In 2021, the company generated net sales of DKK 9,957 million. References National Eczema Association. What is atopic dermatitis? https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/atopic-dermatitis/ Weidinger S, et al. Atopic dermatitis. Lancet. 2016;387(10023):11091122. Boguniewicz M, et al. Atopic dermatitis: a disease of altered skin barrier and immune dysregulation. Immunol Rev. 2011;242(1):233246. MAT-59274 September 2022 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221002005013/en/ Contacts David Patti LEO Pharma, Global Product Communications +1 973 796 7706 DAPAI@leo-pharma.com Jes Broe Frederiksen LEO Pharma, Global Product Communications +45 53 60 59 48 JEBFE@leo-pharma.com This just makes me THAT much happier that she finally got an apology earlier this year. I'm glad she was able to get that long overdue apology from them before she died. Reply Thread Link I'm very glad she lived to see them apologise and was applauded - but it is disgusting it happened at all and she deserved far more. May she rest in peace. Reply Thread Link RIP legend. Reply Thread Link So she had to wait nearly 50 years to get that apology. Fucking atrocious and that the original disrespect happened at all, but glad she at least got the apology while she was still here. Rest in peace. Reply Thread Link may she rest in peace... and may john wayne continue to burn in the deepest depths of hell. Edited at 2022-10-03 10:55 am (UTC) Reply Thread Link I hate John Wayne Reply Thread Link I still dont get what he was planning to do. Assault her in a room full of people and with cameras everywhere? Reply Parent Thread Link Of course, because we know he'd have got away with it. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link John Wayne seems to have been a terrible person but this story is a bit of a legend and the director of the Oscars' version of it has changed over the years. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link john wayne was a known woman-beater, he would've absolutely hit sacheen littlefeather in full public view if he had the chance. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link well, yeah. he was john wayne. nobody would've stopped him and/or cared. the people who held him back didn't do so to protect Sacheen, they did it to protect his career. Reply Parent Thread Link He thought he was the characters he played, what a sad little pos Reply Parent Thread Link Me too. Such a sack of shit. Reply Parent Thread Link i dont understand why he was so mad. what an emotional guy Reply Parent Thread Link rest in peace. Reply Thread Link What pissed me off about the apology is that the academy waited until she was knowingly on her death bed to apologize. All this time the film academy turned her into a pariah when all she asked was for the academy members to do better in regards to treatment and portrayal of Native Americans. Just fucking be done with this organization and dismantle it. Every year there is some controversy over how white the awards are and it really is no longer relevant in this day age. Reply Thread Link A queen and an icon who barely got apologized to and after so damn long. May she rest well Reply Thread Link God, I'm so glad she got an official apology before she left us. I hate that she died at 75, though. Reply Thread Link John Wayne was fucking vile, everyone who booed her should be ashamed. May she rest in peace. Reply Thread Link RIP queen Reply Thread Link RIP Sacheen Reply Thread Link My first thought was that the apology was too late, but at least in her lifetime. Reply Thread Link John Wayne - who was reportedly so incensed at her speech, "he had to be restrained by 6 security staff backstage Men are so emotional Reply Thread Link Not fit to be president of the local HOA, let alone countries! Reply Parent Thread Link By signing up to our newsletter, you agree for your email address to be shared with our third party mail providers. Putin's declaration that Russia was annexing Donetsk, along with Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, was viewed as a major escalation by the Kremlin. There are growing calls for the Western defensive alliance to provide more support to Ukraine in its fight against Russia. Nine Central and Eastern European countries have given their backing to Ukraine's bid to join NATO and urged the Western alliance to provide Kyiv with more weapons to defend itself against invading Russian forces. The statement, issued on October 2, was signed by the leaders of the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. The joint statement comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on September 30 that Ukraine had submitted an application for accession to NATO under an accelerated procedure. That announcement came the same day Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed Russia had annexed four Ukrainian regions that are partially occupied by invading Russian forces. Putin's declaration that Russia was annexing Donetsk, along with Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, was viewed as a major escalation by the Kremlin. "We reiterate our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We do not recognize and will never recognize Russian attempts to annex any Ukrainian territory," the statement by the nine leaders said. It said the leaders "firmly stood behind the 2008 Bucharest NATO Summit decision concerning Ukraines future membership." Related: Europes Scramble For Oil And Gas Is Causing A Tanker Shortage At the 2008 summit, NATO members welcomed Ukraine and Georgia's aspirations to join, but declined to provide a clear timeline for the two countries possible ascension. Asked about Ukraine's NATO bid, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told U.S. TV that "any decision on membership has to be taken by consensus all 30 allies have to agree to make such a decision." Stoltenberg also said Ukraines capture of the city of Lyman, which is in Donetsk, was proof that Ukrainians are making progress and able to push back against Russian forces. "We have seen that they have been able to take a new town, Lyman, and that demonstrates that the Ukrainians are making progress, are able to push back the Russian forces because of the courage, because of their bravery, their skills, but of course also because of the advanced weapons that the United States and other allies are providing," Stoltenberg said in an interview with NBC's Meet The Press. The best way to counter Russia's proclaimed annexation of parts of Ukraine is to continue supporting the government in Kyiv, Stoltenberg said. German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht, meanwhile, on October 2 announced the delivery of 16 wheeled armored howitzers produced in Slovakia to Ukraine next year. The weapons will be financed jointly with Denmark, Norway, and Germany. By RFE/RL More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: "You don't have to die in Ukraine. Your sons don't have to die in Ukraine," Ukrainian President Zelenskiy said. Vladimir Putins mobilization order has been chaos for Russians, with many receiving draft summons even though they should have been exempt. One day after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "partial" mobilization limited to reservists with prior military experience to go fight in the Kremlin's war in Ukraine, Viktor Dyachok, a 59-year-old surgeon, and Artyom Skutin, a 21-year-old university student, each received a draft summons to report for duty. The notices delivered on September 22 came as a shock to both men. Skutin should have been exempt from the mobilization order due to his status as a full-time student and he had spent the night following Putin's September 21 announcement reading through the fine print of the order with his girlfriend to reassure himself that he would not be drafted. Dyachok, meanwhile, had just completed a late shift at the hospital and believed that his advanced age and poor health -- he has Stage 1 skin cancer and is blind in one eye -- would prevent him from being called up. Yet, the summons still came, and when both men went to the local recruitment office to show their records and report that an error had been made, both were told that they would still be sent to Ukraine and were ordered to report for training the next day or face criminal charges. "Any adequate medical examiner would not have approved my dad for military service," Polina Dyachok, Viktor's daughter, told Current Time, a Russian-language network run by RFE/RL in cooperation with VOA. "Once he was sent to training, there was only one military commander and [he] did not give any explanations, and there was no [health exam]." Eventually, both Skutin and Dyachok were returned from training and released from their summonses, but only after full-throated petition campaigns launched by Dyachok's daughter and Skutin's longtime girlfriend that involved writing letters, enlisting the legal aid of local civil society groups, showing up in person to meet with recruitment officers, and speaking to local media. Fleeing The Call-Up The two men's experiences are far from isolated cases and have come to represent the chaotic and haphazard mobilization process under way inside Russia, which is fueling speculation that the Kremlin is aiming to activate far more than the 300,000 soldiers initially stated for the call-up drive by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. Panic triggered by the broader mobilization effort, coupled with growing reports of men who qualified for exemptions nonetheless receiving summonses, has led to scenes of men being chased down by recruiters and loaded onto buses and planes to be sent to military training and deployment to Ukraine. Fear of conscription has also led hundreds of thousands of Russians and counting fleeing across the countrys borders by land and air to Central Asian states like Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, and to others like Finland, Georgia, Mongolia, Turkey, and Serbia. "[Until now], many people lived calmly and thought that the [the war in Ukraine] didn't concern us," Polina Artamonova, Skutin's girlfriend, told Current Time. "But now things have become very tense and although Artyom is now at home, there is a fear that he can be pulled at any moment and will go back if they announce a full-scale mobilization." A Chaotic Mobilization Not all of those who believed themselves to be exempt from the September 21 mobilization order have been sent back home like Skutin and Dyachok. Andrei Grishkovits, 37, from Vsevolzhsk, a town outside of St. Petersburg, was sent off to training after trying to resolve what he thought was a clerical error over his status after his sister found out that a summons had been sent for him to an apartment he lived in 10 years ago. Grishkovits, who was deferred from compulsory military service when he was younger because of chronic health problems, did not expect to be conscripted, but after showing up at a local recruitment office he had his passport and ID confiscated and was then sent to a military facility in Luga, south of St. Petersburg. Irina, Grishkovits's partner, told North.Realities that despite her attempts to raise his case, she had so far been unsuccessful and that Grishkovits was still at a training camp, where he is grappling with health issues amid what he describes as tough conditions and may be deployed soon to Ukraine. Cases like Grishkovits's are fueling opposition to the draft across Russia as hundreds of thousands of civilians fear being pressed into military service in the wake of major Russian battlefield losses in Ukraine. More than 2,000 anti-war protesters have been arrested since the announcement, according to OVD-Info, a rights group that monitors police activity in Russia, and some recruitment centers have been attacked, including one incident where a gunman opened fire on a draft office in Siberia. Polls also show Russians becoming increasingly anxious of the war effort following the mobilization order. The Levada Center, long considered Russia's most reliable pollster, said in a September 29 survey that the number of Russians believing that the Kremlin's so-called "special military operation" in Ukraine is going "according to plan" decreased from 73 percent in May to 53 percent in September. Moreover, 47 percent of the respondents said they were anxious, scared, or horrified by the government's decision to decree the partial mobilization, while 23 percent said they were shocked by the move. The mobilization effort could also be looking to target young men who will be finishing the regular fall conscription process in Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also said on October 1 that this years regular conscription will be delayed until November 1 due to enlistment centers being overloaded amid the mobilization. Rising concerns have also sparked an exodus of Russian males of military age to neighboring countries hoping to avoid conscription. Kazakhstan, which has a 7,644-kilometer border with Russia, says that more than 100,000 Russian citizens have entered the country since the mobilization announcement. Related: Kazakhstan Pins Wave Of Cyberattacks On Foreign Actors While many of those who fled Russia in the immediate aftermath of the February 24 invasion relied on family connections or work arrangements to help with the relocation process, the current wave of those fleeing Russia have few concrete plans. Some are using Kazakhstan and other neighboring countries as a transit hub to go to other destinations, but others are looking to settle in the region. Sergei, who asked for his last name to remain anonymous to protect his family still inside Russia, fled to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, where he told Current Time that the Kremlins mobilization efforts were largely falling on deaf ears at home. There is no specific aggression towards [Russia] and on the contrary there is aggression from our country towards another, he said. Most people simply do not understand what they are fighting for and what they would be dying for. Targeting Minorities Throughout Russia's seven-month war in Ukraine, the Russian military has relied on units of soldiers from ethnic minority regions, including in Siberia and the Muslim-majority provinces of the North Caucasus, with those regions suffering a disproportionate number of casualties from the war. Those same minority populations have also been disproportionately targeted amid the recent mobilization process, sparking sustained protests, mostly involving women who oppose the drafting of husbands or sons, as they've blocked roads, scuffled with police, and demonstrated against the war. The Kremlin has not released official data for draft papers broken down by ethnicity and according to analysts, many of Russia's ethnic minority republics may have a disproportionate number of reservists to be called up. Still, the move has helped reinforce a sense that Russia has been relying on ethnic minorities to provide its main fighting force for its invasion. Russia has also called up Tatars in large numbers, including Crimean Tatars from the Crimean Peninsula, which was occupied and forcibly annexed by Moscow from Ukraine in 2014. One Crimean Tatar, who asked to remain anonymous to protect his relatives in Crimea from being targeted by the Russian authorities there, told Crimea.Realities that he fled through mainland Russia to Kazakhstan by car after his sister learned through an acqaintance that his name had been added to the draft list and he does not know if he will ever return. Kyiv has also sought to speak directly to Russias ethnic minority population recently. In a September 29 video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged minority groups across Russia to resist the Kremlin's mobilization drive. "You don't have to die in Ukraine. Your sons don't have to die in Ukraine," Zelenskiy said, standing next to a monument in Kyiv to an imam from the Caucasus. By RFE/RL More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Italys Eni this weekend said it had not received any of the natural gas contracted for delivery with Russias Gazprom for either Saturday or Sunday and warned this could extend to Monday as well. The two companies told the media they were working to resolve the issue, which Gazprom says has to do with regulatory updates in Austria. The Russian state giant said on Saturday that Austrias grid operator had refused to confirm transit nominations, prompting Gazprom to suspend the flow of gas via the country, Reuters reported. "Gazprom told us that it was not able to confirm the delivery of the volumes demanded for today, citing the impossibility of gas transport through Austria," Eni said in a statement, as quoted by the AFP. The Austrian side, for its part, said that Gazprom had not signed the necessary contracts to continue transiting gas via Austria. "At the beginning of each gas year, various technical changes in the market model come into force," the Austrian energy ministry said in a statement on Sunday, as quoted by Reuters. "Contractual changes are necessary for this. These contracts have not yet been signed by Gazprom. Transport nominations for today could therefore not be accepted. A solution is currently being worked on at the technical level at full speed." The problem for Eni is that Russian gas enters Austria just fine but doesnt leave it in the Italian direction, according to a spokesman for the company. A spokesperson for Austrias energy major OMV confirmed the deliveries are stable. "The volumes nominated for today's gas day were significantly higher for OMV today than of late," the spokesperson said, as quoted by Reuters. Italy and Austria receive natural gas from Russia via the Yamal-Europe pipeline that passes through Ukraine and then via the Trans Austria Gas Pipeline. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Yemen's Houthis have warned oil companies operating in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to pack up and leave as the warring sides in the Yemeni conflict failed to reach an agreement to extend the six-month truce. Fighting in Yemen has been ongoing for over seven years now after the Iran-affiliated Houthis overturned the elected president, which prompted Saudi Arabia to wage war on the rebel group. In response, the Houthis have made Saudi Arabia's oil facilities their preferred target of attacks. Yemen's Armed Forces' spokesman Yahya Saree wrote on Twitter this weekend, warning oil firms to organize and leave Saudi Arabia and the UAE. "As long as the American-Saudi aggression countries are not committed to a truce that gives the Yemeni people the right to exploit their oil wealth in favor of the salary of the Yemeni state employees, the armed forces give oil companies operating in the UAE and Saudi Arabia an opportunity to organize their situation and leave," Saree wrote, adding "forewarned is forearmed." "If the Saudi and Emirati coalition continue to deprive our Yemeni people access to their resources, our military forces can, with God's help, deprive them of their resources," the Yemeni military spokesman added. Meanwhile, UN Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg said on Sunday that he regrets "that an agreement has not been reached today, as an extended and expanded truce would provide additional critical benefits to the population." "As negotiations continue, the UN Special Envoy calls on the parties to maintain calm and refrain from provocations or any actions that could lead to an escalation of violence," the UN statement reads. Two months ago, Yemen's Houthi-led government accused the country's Saudi-backed coalition forces of siphoning off $13 billion in Yemeni oil revenues over the past five years, with reports claiming that another $180 million in looted oil left the country on a Greek oil tanker in August. In a tweet published by local media sources, Houthi National Negotiation Delegation official Abdul Malik Al-Ajri claimed that the $13 billion "looted" from Yemen's oil revenues is based on figures from OAPEC (Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries) and maritime traffic data. By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Kazakhstan has for the past week been on the receiving end of a wave of cyberattacks that IT experts say have slowed down internet connections across the country. The problem has even drawn the attention of the president, who has blamed the attack on foreign-based actors seeking to sow political turmoil. Certain forces are carrying out these actions from abroad with the intention of provoking a revolution inside our country, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev told an audience in the northeastern Abai province on September 30. Tokayev based his argument on the fact that the internet slowdown was initially recorded following his announcement of snap presidential elections to take place on November 20. They want to prevent positive changes happening in Kazakhstan. But we will not deviate from our course, he said. The State Technical Service, or STS, a cybersecurity unit operating under the aegis of the National Security Committee, or KNB, has said it noticed an increase of malicious online activity from September 24 and that the attacks increased after that. Malfunctioning internet connections on September 28 caused multiple morning flights in Almaty and Atyrau to be delayed by several hours. Attacks of this type hinder the performance of web services and are aimed at the complete breakdown of internet resources. The [distributed denial-of-service, DDoS] attack used networks of infected computers and botnets, the STS said on September 28. The STS said that the attacks were aimed at government agencies and internet infrastructure. The sabotage was likely linked to ongoing public events in the country and the world. The agency did not specify what it meant by that. Related: Chinese Oil Refiners To Ramp Up Output As Demand Rebounds London-based cybersecurity watchdog NetBlocks said on September 28 that network data from Kazakhstan showed connectivity at 23 percent of ordinary levels. Until Tokayev made his speech, no Kazakh officials had tried to advance any theories as to who specifically might be behind the situation. The president's explanation was vague, but echoed language he used to describe the alleged planners of the political unrest that left dozens dead in Kazakhstan in early January. That turbulence was the work of terrorist gangs who had been given serious training abroad, Tokayev said. The blame for plotting the events, which began as spontaneous protests against fuel price rises, has since been pinned on the former head of the KNB, Karim Masimov, who is facing charges of treason. Speaking to KazTAG news agency, Shavkat Sabirov, the president of the Internet Association of Kazakhstan, concurred with the theory that the perpetrators of the cyberattack might be people linked to the unrest in January. He offered another explanation, however, suggesting that the hacking activity could be overspill from the war that Russia is waging against Ukraine an attempt by unspecified parties to cause instability in Central Asia. Officials in Kazakhstan speak often about what they have cast as the increasingly serious threat posed by hackers. Speaking to Tokayev in the first half of August, KNB chief Yermek Sagimbayev said his agency has recorded and repelled 295 million cyberattacks and 2,000 DDoS attacks on critical infrastructure in Kazakhstan since the start of the year. The danger of online facilities becoming compromised is increasingly acute as Kazakhstan pursues greater digitization of the economy and government. Even as the cyberattack was hitting another peak on September 28, Tokayev was addressing the plenary session of an international technology conference in the capital, Astana. The government to citizens concept that is the provision of services to citizens is one of our most important priorities, he told attendees of the Digital Bridge 2022 forum. With the help of digital technologies, we intend to make the daily life of citizens as easy as possible and achieve equality of opportunity for everyone. By Eurasianet.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Norway is posting soldiers from its Home Guard to protect energy infrastructure as Western Europe's largest oil and gas producer, and its Scandinavian neighbors are increasing security following the suspected sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines in the Baltic Sea last week. As of Monday, soldiers from the Home Guard provide increased security at petroleum facilities in the counties Rogaland, Vestland, and Mre og Romsdal, the Norwegian Armed Forces said today. The deployment of the soldiers comes after Norwegian police requested assistance from the Army to prevent incidents. The Army is ready to post soldiers at more facilities if the police request it, the Armed Forces said. Securing and guarding critical civil and military infrastructure is one of the Home Guard's core tasks, the Army says. Last week, the Army said that the Norwegian Armed Forces are present and conducting patrols with assets on land, in the air, at sea, underwater, and in cyberspace, without going into details about the mission due to the sensitive matter. Four leaks, two in each of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, were discovered last week after gas started leaking earlier this week from the infrastructure just outside Swedish and Danish territorial waters in the Baltic Sea. Nord Stream 2 was never put into operation after Germany axed the certification process following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia, for its part, shut down Nord Stream 1 indefinitely early this month, claiming an inability to repair gas turbines because of the Western sanctions. The EU believes the gas leaks from the pipelines in the Baltic Sea were the result of a deliberate act of sabotage and not an accident or a mere technical failure. Last Thursday, Denmark and Sweden said in a letter to the UN Security Council - shared by Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde - that their investigation had found so far that "at least two detonations occurred underwater" at the Nord Stream pipelines. "The magnitude of the explosions was measured at 2.3 and 2.1 on the Richter Scale, respectively, probably corresponding to an explosive load of several hundred kilos," Denmark and Sweden said. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The European Union could reach an agreement to back a price cap on Russian oil and more sanctions against Russia as soon as Monday, the Polish representative to the EU said today. I am hopeful in a couple of hours we can have a unanimous agreement on the sanctions package, Andrzej Sados, Polands ambassador to the EU, told reporters, as carried by Bloomberg. We are very close to it and there is determination to clinch a deal ASAP, Sados said as the ambassadors to the EU of all 27 member states of the bloc began a meeting to discuss the next package of sanctions against Russia for the latest escalations of its war in Ukrainesham referendums and the subsequent annexation of four regions in eastern Ukraine. The package to be discussed is expected to include political backing from the EU on the proposed price cap on Russian oil, the Polish diplomat said. The EU is looking to reach an agreement on the new sanctions package before an EU leaders summit on October 7 in Prague, sources with knowledge of the talks told Bloomberg. Last week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented the Commissions proposals for the eighth package of sanctions in response to Russias escalation of the war in Ukraine. Today, in this package, here, we are laying the legal basis for this oil price cap, von der Leyen said, commenting on the G7-led idea of banning Russian crude oil from imports by sea unless the oil is sold at or below a certain price the buyers expect to set. The eighth package is planned to include further restrictions on trade with Russia. A sanctions package would need unanimous approval by all 27 EU member states, but Hungary has said it would block new energy sanctions against Russia. By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) Hundreds of hot air balloons lifted off Saturday morning, marking the start of an annual fiesta that has drawn pilots and spectators from across the globe to New Mexicos high desert for 50 years now. As one of the most photographed events in the world, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has become an economic driver for the states largest city and a rare and colorful opportunity for enthusiasts to be within arm's reach as the giant balloons are unpacked and inflated. Three of the original pilots who participated in the first fiesta in 1972 and the family members of others are among this years attendees. That year, 13 balloons launched from an open lot near a shopping center on what was then the edge of Albuquerque. It has since grown into a multimillion-dollar production. Pilot Gene Dennis, 78, remembers the snow storm that almost caused him to miss that first fiesta. He had to rearrange his flight plans from Michigan so he could make it to Albuquerque in time. The weather was perfect when he got to New Mexico, said Dennis, who flew under the alias Captain Phairweather. He was quoted at the time as saying he had brought good weather with him. He was on the hook again, as pilots hope predictions for the rest of opening weekend are fair. Ballooning is infectious, Dennis said, describing being aloft like drifting in a dream, quietly observing the countryside below. This year will mark Roman Muller's first time flying in the fiesta. He's piloting a special-shaped balloon that was modeled after a chalet at the top of a famous Swiss bobsled run. One of his goals will be flying over the Rio Grande and getting low enough to dip the gondola into the river. This is my plan, he said, with a wide smile while acknowledging that it's not always easy to fly a balloon. One thing that helps, he said, is the phenomenon known as the Albuquerque box when the wind blows in opposite directions at different elevations, allowing skillful pilots to bring a balloon back to near the point of takeoff. Dennis said it took a few years of holding the fiesta to realize the predictability of the wind patterns allowed for balloons to remain close to the launch field, giving spectators quite a show. Tens of thousands of people packed the field Saturday, wide-eyed with necks craned as they tried to soak in the spectacle. Denise Wiederkehr McDonald was a passenger in her father's balloon during the first fiesta. She made the trip from Colorado to participate in a re-enactment of that 1972 flight on Friday. Her father, Matt Wiederkehr, was one of the first 10 hot air balloon pilots in the U.S. and held numerous world records for distance and duration and built a successful advertising business with his fleet of balloons. Wiederkehr McDonald, who went on to set her own ballooning records before becoming a commercial airline pilot, was wearing one of her father's faded ballooning jackets and held a cardboard cutout of him as the balloon she was riding in lifted off. She recalled a childhood full of experiences centered on ballooning. I remember the first time being down in the balloons with them all standing up and inflating and not being able to see the sky because it was all colored fabric. And then the other thing was the first balloon glow at night. Oh, my gosh, she said. There were a lot of firsts that I took for granted back then but really look back and appreciate so much now. The fiesta has grown to include a cadre of European ballooning professionals. More than 20 countries are represented this year, including Switzerland, Australia, Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Taiwan and Ukraine. It also serves as the launching venue for the America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race, one of the world's premier distance races for gas balloons. Bellevue Universitys Military Veteran Services Center wants to enlist the community to help fill 200 backpacks double the number filled last year to help homeless veterans at the Siena Francis House. Now, through Nov. 4, the public can donate much-needed items to fill the backpacks. Items can be dropped off at Bellevue Universitys Military Veteran Services Center at 2108 Harvell Drive. The center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Heather Carroll, manager of the Military Veteran Services Center, said this years goal has been set high because the need is significant. Our goal is to fill 200 backpacks with essentials that will improve the day-to-day lives of the homeless veterans who are served by the Siena Francis House, she said. The things that many of us take for granted mean the world to these veterans. Items needed include blankets, ponchos, winter hats and gloves, socks, toiletries, lip balm, hand and foot warmers, water bottles, hand sanitizer, face masks, combs, facial tissues and underwear. Monetary donations will be accepted, as well. Donations can be made online at bit.ly/3BTP5Qy. Designate Military and Veteran Services. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Chinese billionaire and JD.com founder Richard Liu agreed to settle a lawsuit filed by a former University of Minnesota student who alleged he raped her in her Minneapolis apartment after a night of dinner and drinks with wealthy Chinese executives in 2018, attorneys for both sides announced late Saturday. A settlement amount was not disclosed. Richard Liu, who stepped down as the CEO of Beijing-based e-commerce company JD.com this year amid increased government scrutiny of Chinas technology industry, has denied raping the woman, Jingyao Liu, and prosecutors never filed criminal charges. A joint statement from attorneys for both sides called the encounter a misunderstanding. The incident between Ms. Jingyao Liu and Mr. Richard Liu in Minnesota in 2018 resulted in a misunderstanding that has consumed substantial public attention and brought profound suffering to the parties and their families," the joint statement said. "Today, the parties agreed to set aside their differences, and settle their legal dispute in order to avoid further pain and suffering caused by the lawsuit. The settlement was announced just two days before the civil trial was set to begin Monday in a Minneapolis courtroom. On Friday, a jury of seven men and five women were picked to hear the case. Richard Liu is a celebrity in China, part of a generation of entrepreneurs who created the countrys internet, e-commerce, mobile phone and other technology industries since the late 1990s. Forbes estimated his wealth at $10.9 billion on Saturday. Jingyao Liu alleges the attack happened in 2018 while Richard Liu was in Minneapolis for a weeklong residency in the University of Minnesotas doctor of business administration China program, geared toward high-level executives in China. Jingyao Liu, a Chinese citizen, was at the university on a student visa and was a volunteer in the program at the time. The Associated Press does not generally name people alleging sexual assault, but Jingyao Liu has agreed to be identified publicly. Jingyao Liu was 21 and Richard Liu was in his mid-40s at the time, the lawsuit said. They are not related. Richard Liu, also known as Liu Qiangdong, was arrested on suspicion of felony rape in August 2018, but prosecutors said the case had profound evidentiary problems and declined to file criminal charges. Jingyao Liu sued Richard Liu and JD.com in 2019, alleging sexual assault and battery, along with false imprisonment. The case drew widespread attention at a time when the #MeToo movement was gaining traction in China. Richard Lius supporters and opponents waged aggressive public relations campaigns on Chinese social media; censors shut down some accounts that supported Jingyao Liu for violating regulations. Jingyao Liu said in her lawsuit that she had to withdraw from classes in fall 2018 and seek counseling and treatment. Her attorney said she has since graduated but has post-traumatic stress disorder. She sought compensatory as well as punitive damages from Richard Liu. Her lawsuit said she was seeking more than $50,000, a standard figure that must be listed in Minnesota if a plaintiff intends to seek any larger amount. She was expected to ask a jury to award much more. On the night of the alleged attack, according to the lawsuit, Richard Liu and other executives went to a Japanese restaurant in Minneapolis and one of the men invited Jingyao Liu at Richard Liu's request. She felt coerced to drink as the powerful men toasted her, and Richard Liu said she would dishonor him if she did not join in, her lawsuit claimed. According to text messages reviewed by The Associated Press and Jingyao Lius interviews with police, she said that after the dinner Richard Liu pulled her into a limousine and groped her despite her protests. She said he raped her at her apartment. At one point, she texted a friend: I begged him dont. But he didnt listen. Her friend notified police, who went to her apartment. Jingyao Liu told one officer, I was raped but not that kind of rape, according to police. When asked to explain, she changed the subject and said Richard Liu was famous and she was afraid. She told the officer that the sex was spontaneous and she did not want police to get involved. Police said they released Richard Liu because it was unclear if a crime had actually taken place." In a later interview with an investigator, Richard Liu said the sex was consensual and the woman enjoyed the whole process very much. Jingyao Liu told a police sergeant that she wanted to talk with Richard Lius attorney and threatened to go to the media if she did not, according to police. Richard Lius former attorney recorded the phone call, in which Jingyao Liu said she didnt want the case to be in the newspaper and I just need payment money and apologize and thats all. A recording of the phone call was expected to be played as evidence at trial. Surveillance videos from the restaurant, the restaurants exterior and the halls of the womans apartment complex were also expected to be played for jurors. A Bellevue man who fatally shot his wife will spend the rest of his life in prison, a judge announced Monday. Lovell Jones Jr., 44, had pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and firearm use in connection with the Jan. 22 death of his wife, 40-year-old Deyvonndra Jones. Monday, Sarpy County District Judge Stefanie Martinez sentenced Jones to 70 years to life on the murder charge and 35-50 years on the firearm charge, with the sentences to be served one after the other. Under state law, which generally cuts sentences in half, and the mandatory minimum sentence on the firearm charge, Jones must serve at least 55 years in prison. Authorities went to the couples home near 22nd Avenue and Jefferson Street about 10:45 p.m. Jan. 22 after Jones had called police. He told them that he had shot a woman in the home while a child was sleeping upstairs. Deyvonndra Jones had been shot several times and suffered at least one gunshot wound to the head. The child was not injured. Deyvonndra Jones was taken in critical condition to the Nebraska Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries. The lesser-known half of the force that keeps things running smoothly at Offutt Air Force Base is doubling in size. The 170th Group of the Nebraska Air National Guard is in the process of doubling its personnel numbers after an expansion of the unit was approved in April, according to officials. The expansion was formally announced at an event on Sept. 10, during which Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., stressed the importance of the partnership between the 170th Group and the Offutt-based 55th Wing. The 170th Group has been stationed at Offutt since 2002. It assists the Air Forces 55th Wing through a combat training squadron and an operations support squadron. With the expansion, the group already has added about 81 workers in the newly created maintenance support and intelligence support squadrons. Within the next couple of years, officials hope to further grow staff numbers, said Col. Wendy Squarcia, commander of the 170th Group. The 55th Wing saw that that relationship and that partnership worked so well, so they said, How can we have more of that? Squarcia said. Squarcia has been with the 170th Group since 2007 and at Offutt since 2002. She said she is excited to see the expansion get off the ground after nearly 10 years of work. All of a sudden, all of that blood, sweat and tears is finally coming into this being a reality, Squarcia said. I remember jumping out of bed on April 2 like, Oh, my God, this is happening. Both new squadrons are in the process of hiring a mix of civilians, existing Air National Guard members and retired Air Force personnel, the squadrons commanders said. The new roles include a mix of part-time and full-time positions. The members of the 170th Groups new maintenance support squadron will support the 55th Wings maintenance group, going through the same training as the Air Force members, said Lt. Col. Sam Schneider, the squadrons commander. While active duty Air Force members come and go, members of the maintenance support squadron will act almost as a shock absorber, Schneider said. We can provide continuity in between different active duty members, so the knowledge level stays here, Schneider said. The new intelligence support squadron will assist the 55th Wing squadron of the same purpose, said Lt. Col. Travis Degen, the 170th Group squadrons commander. The squadrons creation makes the 170th Group one of the first in the nation to hire linguists, Degen said. Hiring many part-time personnel means being able to bring on people with a variety of experience levels and with a variety of different day jobs, Degen said. We want a good balance of experience, Degen said. Broadly, recruitment has been a challenge for the U.S. military. A perfect storm of economic, demographic and medical factors have contributed to a sudden downturn in recruiting that has been further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, The World-Herald reported earlier this year. Amid those struggles, however, the Nebraska Air National Guard has proved a rare bright spot, and officials have credited the presence of Offutt as a key factor in helping the Air National Guard hit recruitment goals. For retired Air Force personnel, the Nebraska Air National Guard can be a convenient next step, Squarcia said. Some of them get tired of moving their family every two to three years, she said. So being able to continue to serve their country here, we can keep that continuity and expertise here. Leaders of the 170th Group said they are confident that the Air National Guards presence at Offutt is set to grow. Once people see that this can actually happen and this is a reality, I only believe that we will continue to expand into other areas here in the 55th Wing in the future, Squarcia said. Warmer-than-average temperatures are forecast for Omaha during the first half of this week with a cooldown on the way for the weekend. Honestly, its going to be a pretty quiet week, Katie Gross, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Valley, said Sunday. Monday, we will see highs in the 80s across (eastern Nebraska). The average high temperature for this time of year in eastern Nebraska is in the low 70s. Omaha is not expected to dip below 70 for a high until at least Thursday, when a high of 68 is predicted, Gross said. The high temperature for Omaha on Tuesday is expected to reach 80 degrees. That will be followed by a high of 75 on Wednesday. The best possibility for rain will arrive Tuesday night into Wednesday, Gross said, but its only a 20% chance. Frost, however, is in the outlook for northeast Nebraska starting Friday morning. On Wednesday, we should see lows around 50 degrees (for Omaha), Gross said. The highs will only get up into the 60s on Thursday and then it will turn colder going into the weekend. Thursday night into Friday morning there could be frost in northeast Nebraska. Fridays high temperature is expected to reach 58 in Omaha. That will provide a springboard for chances of frost in the metro area on Saturday, when an early morning low of 36 is forecast. The prediction for Saturday is a high temperature in the low 60s, Gross said. Sunday is projected to be a bit warmer, with a high for Omaha in the upper 60s. For the first part of the week, we expect (temperatures) to be a bit above normal, she said. Later in the week, we will be right about normal as cooler temperatures arrive. Omahas Bike Union and Coffee used to be a place known for its unique ability to sell people bikes along with a steaming cup of joe. In just a few weeks, it will bear a new name along with a second location, but both will be sans bikes. The shop, which opened in 2015, will transform into Astute Coffee, with one location at its original saucer-shaped building at 19th and Dodge Streets and the other at 29th and California Streets near Creighton University. Bike Union and Coffee closed its bike department in June following a spike in demand brought on by the pandemic, said owner Miah Sommer. The bike section, according to Sommer, was taking too much time away from the shops true mission to serve as a nonprofit workforce development program for young adults aging out of the foster care system. The new name, Astute, which is defined as having the ability to assess situations or people and turn this to ones advantage, fits with the programs mission. We just wanted something that captured the mission in one word, Sommer said. I hate leaving the Bike Union name because we built it up and it seems like were running from some of our customers now. But were hoping people will make the connection that this is who we are. The shops workforce development program which lasts roughly a year for each participant has been ongoing since its opening. Youths aging out of foster care or young adults who have already left foster care are able to apply. If accepted, they are paid to work part time and given access to an array of resources. Employees can receive classes on financial literacy, meditation, tutoring and sexual health. They can also get assistance with getting documentation like a drivers license or birth certificate. Tommie De Leon, who entered the program nearly two years ago, said she knows her life could have went south if she hadnt applied to work at the coffee shop. She was on the cusp of 18 years old and was about to graduate from Central High School when she learned about the program. She had seven criminal charges on her record and lived with her latest foster mom who while a kind person had a drug problem, De Leon said. I was at a position in my life where it could have went one way or the other, De Leon said. I dont think I would be at the point in my life now if it wasnt for (Astute). Sommer and other supervisory staff helped De Leon secure a lawyer and accompanied her to every court hearing. She ended up getting probation and aged out of foster care when she was 19 after seven years in the system. Now shes a sophomore at the University of Nebraska at Omaha studying Black studies and communication, with a minor in Chicano and Latino studies. She wants to be a lawyer and get involved in social justice, she said. De Leon said shes happy the shop is transitioning to solely selling coffee because it will help the other employees be able to focus on themselves more. I think the nice thing about the shop is that like, as children, as kids, teenagers we (expletive) up. But (Astute) says that doesnt define you, she said. I think its the first time Ive actually had people consistently look at me and be, like, this isnt who you are. Sommer said he knows what it feels like to just want to belong somewhere and the goal of Astutes workforce development program is to provide a home for people who need one. He said he considers each employee as part of his family. The program is really just a way to get them back to advocating for themselves, doing these things for themselves, Sommer said. I really think its things a parent would do, or a parent should do, but in a lot of these situations, we dont have parents to do that. Aging out of foster care and figuring out next steps can be a monumental barrier for some people, said Shelisha Williams, coordinator of Opportunity Passport, an organization in Omaha that helps those in the foster care system. I get a lot of youth that age out at 19 and the foster home they are in, parents say, You are 19 now, thats it, get your own place and get out, Williams said. About half of youths in foster care drop out of high school and only 3% graduate from a four-year college, according to the National Foster Youth Institute. Astute Coffees program is trying to help youths transition into adult life armed with the skills they need to be successful, Sommer said. Josey Tiemeyer, who began working at the coffee shop in November, said one of her favorite parts of the program are the weekly classes that help her through her recovery. While she wasnt in the foster care system, she came to the program from residential treatment for substance abuse. The mindfulness meditation classes really stuck with me. Because thats what we talked about in sobriety, is finding peace and quietness, Tiemeyer said. Getting to know these guys these guys have absolutely become my family. Theyve become my support system, more than they know. Tiemeyer said she and other employees receive an abundance of empathy and understanding as they find their way through the program. She said Sommer and the other staff were patient with her the two times she relapsed, once for a week and another stint that lasted four days. And they were actually worried about me. They cared, Tiemeyer said. I always had a place to come back to, so thats patience right there, in my eyes. The coffee shop currently has about 10 employees, but Sommer said the number will probably expand after the second shop opens this fall. Tiemeyer said shes excited that shes trusted to be one of the baristas to man the second location by herself once it opens. Its the type of work ethic she said she wouldnt have built without Astute. She said her self-respect and personality also have flourished during her time in the program. Sommer hopes as people learn about Astute Coffee and its mission, more people will come in to support the employees, he said. Its not just, like, youre giving us money. I feel like in a way, youre saying, Alright, I see foster kids. I acknowledge them. I want these people to transition into adulthood successfully, Sommer said. I think the more people we get in, the more the (employees) can talk to them and then they help support our mission. Every cup of coffee helps. MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) Islamic extremist fighters on Monday targeted the local Somali government headquarters in the Hiran region, leaving 20 people dead and 36 wounded in a town at the center of a recent mobilization against the extremists, officials and witnesses said. The Somalia-based al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack in Beledweyne, a town more than 300 kilometers (186 miles) north of Somalias capital, Mogadishu. Somalias government earlier Monday announced that it and international partners had killed a top al-Shabab leader, Abdullahi Nadir, over the weekend. The U.S. military said it conducted an airstrike on Saturday in southwest Somalia but didnt name the al-Shabab leader killed. The Hiran governor, Ali Jayte Osman, who survived Mondays attack, told The Associated Press that the health minister of Hirshabelle state and the deputy governor of Hiran in charge of finance were among those killed in Mondays attack. At least 36 others were hurt. The first explosion occurred at the entrance gate, and after a few minutes a big truck rushed toward the headquarters building and exploded, killing many civilians who came to the office to receive services, the governor said. This attack was carried out by cowards, but their brutal acts will never distract from the public uprising against them." He said the attack badly damaged the administrations headquarters. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and reaffirmed the U.N.'s commitment to work with regional and other international actors in supporting the people and government of Somalia on their path toward a peaceful Somalia," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Witness Elmi Hassan told the AP that a truck laden with explosives rammed the government headquarters around 10:00 a.m. I have seen with my own eyes several bodies that were discovered from the wreckage of the attack, human flesh scattered on the ground, he said. The police commissioner of Beledweyne, Bishar Hussein Jimale, said the attack occurred at the Lama-Galaay military camp that also serves as the government headquarters. What happened here today is a disaster that killed many innocent people, including government officials, civilians and security personnel, he said. Despite the attack, some residents remained defiant as efforts continued in the region to seize communities back from al-Shabab control. We will not be intimidated by this and we will not stay away from our battle against the terrorists. We will fight until the end, until we defeat you," resident Hassan Ali said. HELSINKI (AP) Latvia's ruling center-right party won the most votes in the country's general election, centrist parties were the runners-up and pro-Moscow parties crashed in a vote that was shaped by Russias war in Ukraine, according to results published Sunday. With over 99% of the votes counted, Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins New Unity party had captured 19% support, while the opposition Greens and Farmers Union was second with 12.5% and the new centrist electoral alliance United List made up of several regional parties was third with 10.9%. Only eight parties or electoral alliances passed the 5% barrier and secured representation at the 100-seat Saeima legislature. The center-right National Alliance and the centrist Development/For!, which are both members in Karins' current minority coalition government, are among them. None of the parties catering to Latvias ethnic Russian minority, which makes up more than 25% of the countrys 1.9 million people, managed to secure a seat in Parliament. Karins, a 57-year-old dual Latvian-U.S. citizen born in Wilmington, Delaware, told media outlets earlier that it would be easiest to continue with the same coalition government if his party won. Valdis Dombrovskis, the executive vice president of the European Commission and a former Latvian prime minister, said the Baltic country was currently "facing a very complicated geopolitical situation in a context of Russias aggression against Ukraine. Latvia, which borders Russia, joined the European Union and NATO in 2004. The victory of the prime ministers party, New Unity, I think, means that people voted for experienced political force with a clear Euro-Atlantic course, which can deal and lead a country in this complicated situation, Dombrovskis told New Unity supporters in the capital, Riga. Saturday's election was a blow particularly for Harmony, a Moscow-friendly party that traditionally served as an umbrella for most of Latvias Russian-speaking voters, including Belarusians and Ukrainians. Harmony received a mere 4.8% of votes in comparison to the 2018 election, when it garnered almost 20% of the vote, the most of any single party, but was excluded by other parties from entering the government. Russias invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24 had a substantial effect on voter attitudes, observers say, and resulted in a deep division between Russian-speakers opposing the war and those supporting it. Latvia's economic situation, including soaring energy prices, was the main election issue. Initial voter turnout was 59.4%, the Central Election Committee said, higher than the 2018 election. Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine BLOOMINGOTN A Normal man is in custody after police responded to the sound of a gunshot early Saturday. Terry J. A. Powell, 21, is charged with reckless discharge of a firearm (Class 4 felony), illegal possession of ammunition (Class 4 felony) and possession of a firearm without a valid Firearm Owners Identification card (Class 3 felony). Bloomington officers were conducting a foot patrol in the downtown bar district at approximately 1:13 a.m. when they heard the sound of a shot fired, according to a statement from the Bloomington Police Department. Additional officers arrived in the area to assist and they observed a male concealing what was believed to be a firearm, police said. Officers made contact with the male, who was later identified as Powell, and located the firearm. A short time later, Powell was taken into custody without incident. "I want to commend the BPD dispatchers and BPD officers who worked in conjunction on this case. The speed and efficiency in which the suspect was taken into custody was imperative in keeping our community safe," said Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington in a statement. "The BPD will remain diligent in our partnership with our community to enhance the quality of life in Bloomington. BPD will continue to address violence with all of our resources." The circumstances behind this incident are still pending investigation by Bloomington police. Anyone with information should contact the Bloomington Police Department at 309-820-8888. NORMAL Police say charges have been filed against a 20-year-old suspect believed to be responsible for injuring two pedestrians outside a Normal bar last month. Aidan McCain, 20, is charged with aggravated reckless driving (Class 4 felony) after colliding with two pedestrians at the intersection of College Avenue and Linden Street at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Sept. 15. According to the Normal Police Department, officers initially responded to the incident and made contact with the victims and McCain. Normal police immediately began an investigation into the cause of the accident and due to the severe injuries sustained by the victims, the accident reconstruction team was called in to help. It was determined that McCain was traveling northbound on Linden Street at an extremely high rate of speed and lost control of the vehicle, police said. The vehicle then exited the roadway at the northeast corner of the intersection and struck the pedestrians at 102 N. Linden St., near the Pub II bar and restaurant. After completing the crash investigation, and in collaboration with the McLean County State's Attorney's Office, McCain was arrested Monday by Normal police detectives. The victims involved in this accident were identified as students at Illinois State University. Both victims are still hospitalized and recovering from their injuries. Anyone with additional information on this crash is asked to call NPD Criminal Investigations Division at 309-454-9593. NORMAL With more than 400 students, cybersecurity is an increasingly popular major at Illinois State University, and one which officials say impacts everyone. State Farm has been a major supporter of the program. Representatives from the company joined ISU during an open house Monday to celebrate the growth of the program and its renovated space in Julian Hall. This is an amazing learning space thats going to be home for an increasingly popular and in-demand major, ISU President Terri Goss Kinzy said. State Farm's support has been key to the program's development. Students started learning cybersecurity at ISU in 2007 as part of a sequence within the wider computer science program. In 2016, the university made it a separate major, and State Farm donated $3 million the following year to support the program and create an endowed chair position. Graduates enjoy plenty of job prospects, said Jesse Magenheimer, vice president and chief information security officer at State Farm. There are hundreds of thousands of unfilled jobs in cybersecurity in the United States, he said. The staffing needs in this space is immense, he said. Those impacted by cybersecurity threats include schools themselves. Heartland Community College was hit by a cyberattack in late 2020 and has dedicated $1 million to improving cybersecurity. A ransomware attack left Lincoln College unable to access critical functions, contributing to the school's closure in May. Schools have become increasingly common targets of cyberattacks and have made their own investments in return. State Farms investment in the department has helped ISU teach future leaders in the field, Kinzy said. We want them to be the future leaders of the cybersecurity industry in this country and the world, she said. The connection to business exists at the academic level too, said Traci Carte, director of the School of Information Technology, which houses the program. Students take courses outside what might be normally thought of as IT, she said. It speaks to IT majors in a different way (), she said. It also has a social aspect. Students need to be able to navigate not just the technical side of threats but also the social side of events like phishing attempts. While many computer science students go on to jobs in cybersecurity, a dedicated program like ISUs helps give students a leg up. Somebody with a cybersecurity degree is going to get up to running faster, she said. The program is housed in Julian Hall, largely in the ground floor in space that used to be a parking garage. Work on the cybersecurity sections wrapped up last year, but other parts of the space were still being worked on to hold people displaced during the renovation of the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts. The cybersecurity facilities include two collaborative rooms, with tables, computers and TV screens to allow students and others to work together on projects. There are also three classrooms, with moveable walls that can be moved to make it all a single room. Many students come in knowing about computer science and the potential job opportunities it has but more and more students are interested in cybersecurity specifically, Carte said. It is something that impacts everyone and that people are increasingly aware of. The internet has touched all our lives, Carte said. BLOOMINGTON State GOP leaders on Monday pointed to the defeat of the 2020 graduated income tax amendment as evidence that Scott Preston is the 91st House District candidate most in touch with his community. During a news conference at the McLean County Chamber of Commerce, Preston was joined by House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, and state Reps. Dan Brady of Bloomington and Tom Demmer of Dixon, who are running for secretary of state and treasurer, respectively. Preston, who faces McLean County Board member Sharon Chung, highlighted a response his opponent gave during a debate last week about how proud she was to support a graduated income tax in 2020 and how much she wanted to reintroduce the measure. "We can't let that happen in central Illinois or Bloomington-Normal," Preston said. "The ramifications are too big and we have to put people over the politics of the day in our opponent's progressive politics." A graduated income tax structure would levy higher tax rates on individuals and businesses with higher earnings. Illinois' current individual income tax rate is a flat 4.95% for everyone. Had Pritzker's tax amendment been approved, Illinoisans would have been taxed at rates ranging from 4.75% to 7.99%. Proponents have argued that taxpayers with higher incomes should be taxed at a rate consistent with their wages. Opponents maintain that the rate would put a greater strain on business owners and open the door for the state to tax retirement income. Durkin said McLean, Tazewell and Woodford counties voted against the tax at a rate of 62%, 70% and 78%, respectively. By supporting and hoping to revisit the issue, Durkin said he can't think of a more tone-deaf House candidate than Chung. He added that the amendment's failure came down to constituents' trust with Democratic leadership and how they spend state money. "It's important that people understand what the constituents are about," Durkin said. "Who's got their ear to the ground when it comes to addressing the issues that are important to people in their district?" Speaking to The Pantagraph, Chung said if GOP leaders want to show that they stand up for working families, they will vote for the collective bargaining amendment, which is being called the Workers Rights Amendment by supporters and Amendment 1 by opponents. She also said her team has been knocking on doors every day. "We knocked on 12,000 doors in September and we're really proud of that number because it shows how we are out there very day talking to voters about issues that matter to them, so I'm not sure how that makes me out of touch," Chung said. Demmer, who faces incumbent Mike Frerichs, said GOP candidates need to send a strong message that they stand with a majority of Illinoisans against a graduated income tax. "This is something we're united to do at the statewide level, this is something that I know that Scott Preston is committed to fighting for in the Illinois House of Representatives and it's something that we're going to unite behind Republican candidates all across the state with our leader in the House of Representatives to say we're looking out for the majority of Illinoisans and this is not something that's on the table for us," Demmer said. A statement from Frerichs' campaign said that Demmer is trying to cover his abject failure as a Republican leader alongside former Gov. Bruce Rauner that nearly bankrupted the state of Illinois. Republican governor candidate Darren Bailey on Sunday opened a new avenue in his attacks on Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, questioning the patriotism of the first-term governor. In a video on Facebook as Bailey was preparing for his annual fundraiser at his farm in downstate Xenia, the GOP state senator noted the set up for the event included a stage featuring a large American flag. Theres the stage again. Amazing, beautiful American flag back there, Bailey said. I want to share something with you. J.B, Pritzkers rallies and his events, I dont, I dont often see the flag flying in a prominent position, just keep that in mind. Bailey has sought to use his conservative rural grassroots and religious-based campaign to repeatedly attack Pritzker as a wealthy liberal Chicagoan who is out-of-touch with average working people. In a prayer he offered during his Facebook post, Bailey offered thanks for the bountiful harvest across Illinois and added for Election Day, Father God, I pray that on Nov. 8, we have another harvest, and thats a harvest of good people being elected to positions in a state that is going to change the course of this nation. He went on to pray for Gods help to remove evil, wicked and corruption from our government. In a posting on Twitter, Pritzkers campaign manager, Mike Ollen, said Bailey will say absolutely anything but the truth. Ollens tweet featured a photo from the first debate between Pritzker and Bailey, which occurred on Friday. During the virtual event, Bailey appeared in a room with no background while Pritzker was flanked by both the U.S. and Illinois flags. And dont get me started on his election denial and support for Jan. 6th insurrectionists, Ollen said. Bailey, who supported and was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, had initially urged prayers for Trump and contended all this fraudulent activity is absolutely disgusting despite the former presidents baseless claims of voting fraud. In the general election, Bailey has said the constitutional transition process was followed and that Democrat Joe Biden was president. But on Thursday, appearing before the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board, Bailey declined to say whether the House select committee hearings on the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection had shown Trumps culpability in trying to overturn the popular election results. Im not educated enough or informed enough to give you an answer on that, Bailey said. The Manager of Poly Changda Engineering Company, Xue Hui, has been denied bail by the Sekondi District Court. The Chinese national was arrested last week for allegedly slashing the throat of his employee with a flip knife. Appearing at the court on Monday, October 3, 2022, the suspect charged with attempted murder had his bail application denied by the presiding judge, Her Worship Nana Abena Asoh Owusu Omenyo. According to the presiding judge, it behoves only a trial court to grant the accused person bail. The prosecution, led by Superintendent Steve Addom, told the court that the complainant, Isaac Boateng, is a concrete mixer and an employee of Changda Engineering Company based in Takoradi and managed by the accused. The prosecution said the complainant, on September 27, 2022, turned up to work at 7:00 in the morning and closed at 3:00 pm instead of 5:00 pm. The complainant was confronted the following day by the accused person during lunch for closing earlier than usual the previous day. This led to an exchange between the accused and the complainant causing Xue Hui to inform Isaac Boateng that he had been fired from the job. The complainant packed his working attire and went to the accused person to pay him off. Another exchange ensued between the two, and the accused person, without provocation, came out of his office wielding a flip knife with which he slashed the complainant's throat. Meanwhile, a lawyer for the accused person, Akpene Darko Cobbinah, according to a report by Onuaonline.com, has said that her client has since the incident shown remorse. She stated that her client did not intend to cause harm to the victim while adding that the company, through the instrumentation of his client, is paying for all medical expenses. However, according to the victim, he has been left traumatised by the incident. "All that I was demanding was for my salary to be paid since he told me he had sacked me. Since the incident, my family members, especially my wife and kids, have always been crying. But I'm trusting that justice will be served". Meanwhile, the case has been adjourned to October 11, 2022, for committal proceedings. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) has cut sod to construct a 130-bed girls' dormitory at Dormaa Senior High School to ease congestion in the school. Ghana Gas is committed to providing support in the areas such as education, health, Water and Sanitation as well as sports. Dormaa Senior High School celebrated its 75th anniversary at the weekend. Minister of Education Hon. Dr. Yaw Adutwum, Hon. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu Minister of Health and MP for Dormaa Central Constituency, Director-General of Ghana Education Service (GES) Prof. Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, Prof. Akwasi Kumi-Kyereme, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Cape Caost, James Oppong Boanu, former Inspector General of Police who is the president of Dormaa Old Students Association, Bono Regional Minister Hon. Justina Owusu- Banahene, His Royal Majesty, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, the Dormaahene and His Lordship Justice Eric Baah a Justice of the Court of Appeal were among the dignitaries who graced the schools 75th anniversary. Dormaa SHS has a student population of over 4,000 and was the first secondary school between Brong Ahafo and Ashanti Region to be established in 1947. Addressing the ceremony, the Headmaster of the school Nicholas Asamoah was full of praise for Ghana Gas for giving to the school and he was of the view that, the project when completed will provide shelter and ease congestion at the currently poor girls dormitory of the school. He observed that the project is timely. I Am very grateful, he said, the work that we started way back in January, today we have seen the reality of the day. Were hoping that the contractor is going to work harder so that, within the time limit given, we will take over the project and our girls will have a place to lay their heads. Were very grateful once again. Bono Regional Minister Hon. Justina Owusu-Banahene applauded the gas company for the intervention and called on other corporate institutions to assist as is being done on other school campuses. Ghana Gas, after we knocked on their door stepped to assist us to get a dormitory for Dormaa SHS Girls they heard our plea. She said. Without women, there is no development. She said. Ghana Gas provision of 13-bed girls dormitory will aid the girls studies and reduce the overcrowding burden of the school. Dormaaman, RCC and every individual who contributed in getting this dormitory for Dormaa SHS is grateful. I believe the contractor will deliver on his promise to complete this girls dormitory in the stipulated six months time given. Ghana Gas Project Assistant manager Mr Anyimah Nwiah Edomgbole reiterated the vision of the Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ben Asante, the board and the management of the company to provide educational infrastructure across the country. Additionally, the gas company is committed in the delivery on his mandate. Ghana Gas realized Dormaa SHS has one of the biggest student populations and decide to share in their vision of giving them a girls dormitory. As we speak, it is not only Dormman that have benefited from Ghana Gas, Sunyani Technical university will soon get an ultra-modern ICT center that will train students on vehicle maintenance and assembling. Again, at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), Ghana Gas is building a 200-bed hospital capacity for the school and its enviros. He revealed when completed, the project will benefit and thus bring education and health development to the region. Ghana Gas is the nations property and, the company is committed to providing support throughout the country. We can assure Dormaaman and Dormaa SHS that, monies have been allocated to kick start this project to be able to commission within six months. 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 The Founding Vice Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Professor Fred Newton Binka, has again called on the government to rename the institution after late President Professor John Evans Atta Mills. He made the call at this years John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Lecture for the Volta and Oti regions held at the UHAS main campus at Sokode-Etoe, near Ho, last Thursday. The theme was The Man John Evan Atta Mills- Ten Years on. Prof. Binka, who made the keynote presentation, said the legacy of the late professor was so critical and important in todays Ghana, and worldwide, as far as the virtues of integrity, honesty and trust of a leader were concerned. Leadership qualities He said the former President demonstrated competent leadership when it mattered most, and the moral courage to address serious challenges that undermined state organisations. Prof. Binka described the late President as an academic par excellence who made great contributions to the legal profession through his scholarly work at the University of Ghana and several universities in Europe and the USA. Given the mantle of leadership of Ghana, he decided to change the course of the development of universities in Ghana by establishing universities with very clear mandates. In this instance; the University of Health and Allied Sciences in the Volta Region and the University of Energy and Natural Resources in the then Brong Ahafo Region, Prof. Binka said. Apart from those achievements, the founding Vice Chancellor of UHAS paid tribute to the late Prof. Mills as a great leader who wore his Christian faith as a badge of honour and treated everybody as the creation of God. Source: Graphiconline Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Director General of National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Nana Agyemang Prempeh has expressed worry over breast cancer mortality rate and has called on all stakeholders to join the fight against Breast cancer to reduce the rate. He said per statistics available, over 4,000 Ghanaians are diagnosed of Breast cancer every year of which over 2,000 succumb to the disease. At this years Breast Care International, Ghana Walk for the cute at Tepa in the Ahafo Ano North Municipality of the Ashanti Region, Nana Agyemang Prempeh who delivered a keynote address on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon Simon Osei Mensah declared Breast Cancer as a Natural Disaster following its destruction to womens life. Up to date upon all the greatest scientists the world has, Nana Agyemang Prempeh said no one has been able to discover the primary cause of the disease and this he said its very dangerous. Comparing the mortality rate of Covid-19 and breast cancer, one could easily understand the devastating consequences, he added. Despite media Sampson Kwame Nyamekye said thousands of Ghanaians thronged the principal streets of Tepa, a farming community in the Ahafo Ano North Municipality of the Ashanti Region to participate in this years Breast Care International Walk for the cure. The walk saw participation of Chiefs, Politicians, Security Services, and Students from all levels of Education creating awareness about Breast Cancer. On every year, similar event is held to create and educate people on breast Cancer in regional capitals; however this years saw the event in a District. Breast cancer is said to be the leading cause of death among women and the prevalence is said to be high in low and middle income counties. The President of Breast Care International, Dr Mrs. Beatrice Wiafe Addai said up till now some people out of stigma are forced to seek assistance at prayer camps, herbal medicine practitioners and by the time they would come to the hospital, the situation would have worsened. Dr Beatrice Wiafe Addai reiterated that the primary cause of the diseases is not yet known but the secondary prevention is now what medical experts use to treat patients. The disease when detected earlier is treatable. We are not against prayers but resorting to prayers camps for breast cancer solutions is not advisable but very risky to your lives she advised. She has therefore encouraged women to regularly check their breast and this according to her can be self-examined in the house or through breast screening by medical practitioners. We need to continue to wage war against Breast cancer as a country because its claiming more lives than expected she added. The Paramount Chief of Tepa Traditional Area, Nana Dr Adusei Atwenewah Ampem 1 charged men to regularly play with their partners breast to help with early detection. If you are a man here and doesnt know how to play with your partners breast, learn how to do so because its very important he chipped in. He later offered BCI a parcel of land for the construction of Breast Cancer Treatment Centre at Tepa. Source: SAMPSON KWAME NYAMEKYE/ HELLO FM/ASH REG Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The African Union Commission and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have called on governments, multilateral organizations, philanthropies, the private sector, and civil society organizations to support the full implementation of Africas New Public Health Order to drive global health security. The request for support was made at a series of events leading up to the 77th United Nations General Assembly. The New Public Health Order for Africa is a roadmap to sustainable health outcomes and health security. It is defined by five pillars: 1. Strong African Public Health Institutions that represent African priorities in global health governance and that drive progress on key health indicators; 2. Expanded Manufacturing of Vaccines, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics to democratize access to life-saving medicines and equipment; 3. Investment in Public Health Workforce and Leadership Programs to ensure Africa has the workforce it needs to address health threats; 4. Increased Domestic Investment in Health, including the domestic mobilization of financial resources, human capital, technical resources, and networks; and 5. Respectful, Action-Oriented Partnerships to advance vaccine manufacturing, health workforce development, and strong public health institutions. Call to Strengthen African Public Health Institutions African leaders called for support to strengthen Africas public health institutions, including the Africa CDC which led the coordination of Africas pandemic response, helping to significantly reduce loss of life during COVID-19. To achieve [its public health goals], the African Union Assembly in February 2022 granted Africa CDC autonomy to be able to fulfill its mandate, supporting member states to achieve health sovereignty, said African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki. But Africa CDC alone cannot meet this challenge, he added. If you dont have strong public health institutions before an emergency, when the emergency comes it doesnt matter how many resources you have. Youll still struggle, said Dr. Ahmed Ouma, Acting Director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Call to Support Vaccine Manufacturing in Africa Leaders also called upon all vaccine-purchasing mechanisms, such as the Global Alliance for Vaccination and Immunization (GAVI), to purchase at least 30 percent of their vaccines from manufacturers in Africa. While Africa currently produces one percent of its routinely used vaccines, it has set a bold target of meeting up to 60 percent of its vaccine demand through regional manufacturing by 2040. By making explicit commitments to offtake vaccines from Africa, vaccine-purchasing mechanisms can stimulate private sector investment in vaccine manufacturing. Call to Support Health Workforce Development Health workforce development was another prominent focus. According to the WHO, Africa currently has a ratio of 1.55 health workers (physicians, nurses, and midwives) per 1,000 people. This is below the WHO threshold density of 4.45 health workers per 1,000 people needed to deliver essential health services and achieve universal health coverage. Health workers are a crucial pillar in a well-functioning health system. Yet, they have been historically deprioritized in discussions about improving health systems, said President Cyril Ramaphosa in a statement read on his behalf by South Africa Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla. It is good economics to invest in the health workforce as the return is measurable and dependable, he added. Leaders urged greater investment in health workforce development, and specifically called for stronger support of Community Health Worker programs in Africa. Experience shows that professional community health workers who are properly paid, trained, equipped, and supervised are best prepared to provide essential health services in their communities, said President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. She also highlighted that most community health workers in Africa are women who perform exceptional work but are unpaid for their efforts. It is time to correct this injustice, she urged. Respectful, Action-oriented Partnerships To advance progress towards stronger public health institutions, a robust workforce, and medical manufacturing in Africa, the Africa CDC and African Union Commission need partners. Leaders emphasized that the nature of these partnerships is important and called for partnerships oriented around principles of mutuality and respect, that recognize African knowledge and expertise and deliver contextually-relevant support and programs. Partners of the African Union Commission and Africa CDC underscored that delivering a New Public Health Order for Africa is key to strengthening the global health infrastructure and ensuring better global preparedness to effectively respond to infectious disease outbreaks in the future. "Achieving this future will take partnership, and not just any partnership but partnership that's rooted in respect and that means starting by listening, understanding, and then responding to real needs and to priorities," said Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, which last year partnered with the Africa CDC to launch the $1.5 billion Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative. The Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative has purchased vaccines for over 65 million people in Africa and is enabling the vaccination of millions more. The initiative is also designed to drive health workforce development and strengthen the Africa CDC to ensure long-term health security. 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 Burkina Faso's military leader, who was ousted in a coup on Friday, has formally agreed to step down, religious and community leaders said. They said the country's new self-declared leader, Capt Ibrahim Traore, had Lt Col Paul-Henri Damiba's resignation and conditions he had set. The announcement followed attacks on French institutions, after it was reported that Lt Col Damiba was sheltering at a French military base. It is the second coup this year. In both cases, the country's dire security situation and failure to deal with an Islamist insurgency were blamed for the takeovers. Burkina Faso controls as little as 60% of its territory, experts say, and Islamist violence is worsening. The African Union has demanded the return of constitutional order by July 2023 at the latest, agreeing with the regional group Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) that the ousting of leader Lt Col Damiba was "unconstitutional". Ecowas earlier said it was "inappropriate" for army rebels to seize power when the country was working towards civilian rule. No statement has been released by Lt Col Damiba directly. But religious and community leaders said Lt Col Damiba himself had offered his resignation "in order to avoid confrontations with serious human and material consequences," according to quotes cited by AFP news agency. They said Lt Col Damiba had set seven conditions for stepping down - including a guarantee of his security, an agreement to continue with efforts at national reconciliation and continued respect for the guarantee of returning to civilian rule within two years. The deposed colonel had himself ousted President Roch Kabore in January, saying that he had failed to deal with growing militant Islamist violence. Many citizens in Burkina Faso have not felt safe for some time. The Islamist insurgency broke out in the country in 2015, leaving thousands dead and forcing an estimated two million people from their homes. Burkina Faso has experienced eight coups since independence in 1960. 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. Featured Video Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has called on the European Union (EU) to work with African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries to prevent its proposed ethical and sustainable supply chain rules from becoming a burden for the local cocoa and coffee industry. According to Mr Oppong Nkrumah, though the new legislation is a way to drive better practices within the cocoa and coffee subsector, more importantly, the EU must work with ACP countries in achieving these sustainability standards else, it risks putting players within the value chain out of business. He made the call when he chaired a two-day forum on the future of Ghanaian cocoa and coffee value chains in the face of this new EU legislation at the Alliances in Ghana: Coffee and Chocolate at the table in Brussels, Belgium organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the Ghanaian Mission in Brussels last week. At a time where farmlands are coming under threats for competing and more rewarding economic activities, sustainability is a matter that requires some more attention. By no means however, should sustainability be used as a pretext to limit market accessibility. The exchange of best practices and technical assistance is necessary so that we can have a win-win situation in all of this. Farmers deserve compensation for their hard work and should not be left out in any business or policy negotiation. Their social reality and cultural context must be considered when designing legislation so they may meet their demands and not bear a disproportionate burden for complying with the regulation, he said. EU lawmakers have backed a proposal for a law that will ban the sale of agriculture products linked to the destruction of forests, and human rights violations. The bill was supported by 453 votes, to 57 with 123 abstentions. The EU Parliament will start negotiations on the final text with EU member states. Once approved, the law would force companies and producers to give assurances that products are deforestation-free and meet the EUs sustainability standards. Businesses will be forced to verify that agricultural goods sold in the EU have not been made on deforested or degraded land anywhere in the world. Mr Oppong Nkrumah said this could soon make Ghanaian cocoa and coffee unexportable to many international markets within the 27-nation bloc. He said Ghana must act quickly to ensure the two industries meet the interests of European markets else millions of households and the economy, in general, could be significantly affected by this proposed legislation. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A Senior Communications Officer at Zoomlion Ghana Limited (ZGL), a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), Ms. Patricia Ofori-Atta, has received an honouring award in Environmental Communications. The award ceremony, which came off Saturday, October 1, 2022, in Accra, was meant to recognise persons who have distinguished themselves in the environmental and sanitation space. Ms. Ofori Atta was recognised for her instrumental role in environmental communication ensuring that the environment was given due respect. Being the maiden edition of award scheme organised by the Ghana Environmental Sanitation-Award (GESA), sponsored by Zoomlion Ghana Limited, it formed part of the numerous measures to champion and encourage players in the sanitation management space to ensure the sustainability of the environment. Ms. Ofori-Atta's award was a unique recognition of her relentless effort in the sanitation sector as monitored by individuals, the organisers and groups in making sure there was always a healthy environment across the country. As an experienced multimedia practitioner with an extensive background in waste management, results and performance-driven professional with over eighteen years of communication experience in journalism and marketing, Ms. Ofori-Atta is committed to providing adequate information on the protection of the environment. She holds a Master of Arts in Media Management, Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) and was adjudged the overall best student and a BSc Administration (Human Resources Management, GIMPA, with a Diploma in Communications Studies in Journalism from the Manifold Information Technology (MIT). Before joining Zoomlion, Patricia worked with media houses including The Public Agenda Newspaper, Choice FM and also had a one-year national service at the Graphic Communications Group (Junior Graphic) as the Administrative Assistant. At her current employment with Zoomlion, she works at the Communication set up with other positions within the Jospong Group of Companies holding in trust the oversight responsibility of ensuring that the team of media personnel engaged provide media coverage for the subsidiary companies of the JGC. In an interview with journalists after receiving the award, Ms. Ofori-Atta was positive the award will impact immensely on her job. "This award simply tells me that whatever I was doing, there were people observing. I, therefore, entreat everyone to do whatever entrusted into his or her hand with a sense of urgency," she advised. Meanwhile, on the night Zoomlion bagged seven awards in total. These were Environmental and Sanitation Man of the Decade, which award went to the Executive Chairman of the JGC, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong; Distinguished Service in Environmental and Sanitation Communications, Ms. Patricia Ofori Atta, a Senior Communications Officer, and; Distinguished Service and Environmental Sanitation Management, Mr. Ernest Morgan Acquah, General Manager of Metropolitan Waste and Allied Services). The rest were Most influential Blogger/Vlogger in Environmental and Sanitation Promotion 2022, Edmond Otu Yeboah, Assistant Communications Officer; Sewage System Ghana Limited, Most Impactful Waste Management Organisation of the Year; Most committed Borla Woman in Ghana, Madam Philomena Dzogbo, Borla Police, and; Most Impactful Clean Ghana Campaign Project. 1 Million Bin. 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 Internal Audit Agency (IAA) has begun a nationwide Risk-Based Internal Audit (RBIA) Work Plans preparation and submission support programme, focusing on the 2023 guidelines for public sector institutions and covered entities. A statement signed by Dr Eric Oduro Osae, the Director-General of the IAA, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, said institutions in Accra would have their turn on October 3 to 4, Ho and Tamale October 10 and 11; Takoradi and Sunyani October 17 to 18; and Koforidua and Kumasi October 24 to 25. It said recent reports issued by the Auditor-General on the 2021 Financial and Performance activities of public institutions in Ghana. It noted that cognisance was also taken of the ongoing reforms in Public Sector Internal Audit (PSIA) to prevent and reduce irregularities in the management of public funds by moving away from Conventional Pre-auditing to Risk-Based Auditing. The statement said further to the above, Section 83(4-6) of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921) and Regulation 13(7) of the Internal Audit Regulation 2011 (L.I. 1994) mandates Public Institutions (Covered Entities) to prepare RBIA Work Plans and submit same to the Director-General by 30th January of the ensuing year. As part of preparations for complying with the above, the IAA reminds the public and Covered Entities of the above and the need to participate in a nationwide support programme to develop and submit their 2023 RBIA on time being organized by the Agency, it said. Mandatory Thrust Areas for the 2023 RBIA (Excluding areas identified through organizational level risk assessment) include implementation of recommendations in the 2021 Auditor-Generals Report and Management Letters (ML) as well as mainstreaming Performance Auditing in the operations of public institutions. The statement reiterated that failure to prepare and submit the 2023 RBIA by 30th January 2023 constitutes financial indiscipline under the PFM Act 2016(Act 921) and shall attract appropriate sanctions. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Burkina Faso's new military leader, Capt Ibrahim Traore, has urged cabinet ministers to "move faster" to fix the country's "urgent" problems, including an insurgency by Islamist militants. The man he ousted in a coup on Friday has formally agreed to step down, religious and community leaders said. They said Capt Traore had accepted Lt Col Paul-Henri Damiba's resignation and conditions he had set. He has gone to Togo, according to that country's government spokesman. In a recording widely shared on social media, Lt Col Damiba said he wished Burkina Faso's new leader every success. It is not known if he was alone when it was made. On Sunday Capt Traore said the country was facing an emergency in every sector, "from security to defence, to health, to social action, to infrastructure", and it was time for government to "abandon the unnecessary red tape". He wants fast solutions to big problems, which some fear signals a turn towards Russia. Russia and France are engaged in a battle for influence in several former French colonies in West and Central Africa. At the weekend there were attacks on French institutions, after it was reported that Lt Col Damiba was sheltering at a French military base in the capital, Ouagadougou. France's foreign ministry said they were the work of "hostile demonstrators" who had been "manipulated by a disinformation campaign against us". Some in Ouagadougou chanted pro-Russian slogans and waved Russian flags as they greeted the new junta leader and his convoy on Sunday. He regards former colonial power France as an ally of the man he ousted, and has spoken of his willingness to work with new partners to fight Islamist insurgents - and analysts believe that could mean hiring Russian mercenaries. Russian military contractors are said to be active in neighbouring Mali, after French forces pulled out following a row with that country's military leaders. The Russians are accused by rights groups of committing abuses and massacres of civilians, which Russia has always denied. The head of the Russian mercenary Wagner group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, has welcomed the takeover in Burkina Faso. Meanwhile, the Russian government said on Monday it "would like the situation in Burkina Faso to normalise as soon possible". 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. Featured Video The Ministry of Information has kicked-started its annual International Client Service Week to appreciate its stakeholders, partners, service providers and clients for their loyalty and commitment. The week-long event which spans from today October 3rd to Friday, October 7, 2022 is to celebrate customers and interact with them to deepen relationships and identify ways of improving the Ministrys service experience in line with its vision of being governments foremost communication outfit. Drawing on a quote from renowned motivator, Ralph Marston in her address at the opening ceremony at the Ministrys premises, Deputy Minister for Information, Madame Fatimatu Abubakar underscored the need for the celebrations. She said the celebrations provide the Ministry with the opportunity to strengthen its relationship with clients. We at the Ministry of Information after several months of partnering with you to regularly keep the country informed on the numerous policies and programmes rolled out by government to facilitate socio-economic development see this period as another opportunity to celebrate your service and hard work, she said. She also used the opportunity to thank staff of the Ministry for their enormous support in making the Ministry a client friendly institution. Client Service Week is an international celebration of the importance of customer service and of the people who serve and support customers on daily basis. It is celebrated annually during the first week of October. 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 Vodafone Ghana has announced activities to mark the 2022 edition of its Care Month initiative, scheduled from October 3rd to October 7th. The telecommunications giant joins the world to celebrate International Customer Care Week, which is dedicated to celebrating customer service excellence, honouring employees who delight customers daily, and appreciating customers who support the growth of businesses. Vodafone Ghana has also dubbed October CARE Month and dedicated the period to celebrating its devoted clients at various touchpoints with Vodafone-branded mementoes, and free calls, as part of the celebration with the theme "Celebrate Service." Vodafone Ghana will also provide avenues for customers to engage in fun activities such as fastest fingers and captivating social media trivia to win several prizes, while also rewarding its customer-facing staff. Speaking ahead of the week-long celebration, the Director of Digital Transformation and Commercial Operations, Angela Mensah-Poku, said: "While we highlight our frontline workers and other employees for their excellent service to our customers, we also acknowledge the support and patronage of our customers that have significantly contributed to the progress of our business. Care Week also allows us to reaffirm our commitment to always give our customers value through excellent services and products." The telecommunications company is known for improving its products, services, and customer experiences with a focus on the demands of the client. Customers benefit from this and are better able to adapt to the rapidly changing digital world. Vodafone Ghana will mark the 2022 Customer Service Week event across all its channels. 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 Pressure group, OccupyGhana has asked President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to declare a state of emergency in the various mining areas across the country. OccupyGhana last week wrote to the president asking him to show more commitment towards the fight against galamsey which the group noted had failed abysmally. In the letter dated September 28, 2022, OccupyGhana said it would write a reminder to the president every Monday until it sees firm actions being taken by the government to stop illegal mining. In the first of its reminder dated October 3, 2022, OccupyGhana said the current situation of illegal mining impact satisfies the requirements of 31(9) of the 1992 Constitution. The group thus charged the president to declare a state of emergency. In our open letter to you dated 28 September 2022, we promised to send you a Galamsey reminder every Monday morning until your government takes drastic steps to control the situation. This is the first reminder." According to the pressure group, the threats of illegal mining to the country require immediate actions such as the declaration of a state of emergency. We risk losing our very essence as a nation unless immediate and radical action is taken, first to STOP all unregulated and illegal mining, and then put a process in place to REGULATE artisanal mining, going forward. We therefore request that you take immediate steps towards declaring a state of emergency in every mining area in Ghana. In accordance with article 31(1) of the Constitution, these steps would be, first, seeking and obtaining the advice of the Council of State and, second, publishing a Proclamation of the declaration in the Gazette, the group said. As stipulated by Article 31(1) of the Constitution, OccupyGhana said it also expects parliament to be recalled from its break after the declaration by the president. We expect Parliament to be recalled from its vacation, for the government to place before it the facts and circumstances leading to the declaration of the state of emergency under article 31(2). Considering the gravity of the situation, we fully expect Parliament to agree with the government and provide that the state of emergency should remain for such period as Parliament may determine, so that the government can get a grasp of the situation. For our part, we have, and are willing to offer, suggestions and proposals on how to establish a properly regulated artisanal mining industry in Ghana that would benefit the wider interest of all Ghanaians, it added. There is a renewed public conversation about the impact of illegal mining on Ghanas water and forest reserves. Currently, several water bodies are under threat from the galamsey activities while forest covers are being depleted by the day. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Retired Anglican Bishop of Koforidua Diocese, Most Revered Dr Robert G.A Okine has admonished members of the Judicial Service to exercise extreme caution about the type of company they keep. According to the former bishop, the sensitivity of the profession makes it a necessity for members of the Judiciary Service to pay attention to the people around them. Be careful about the people you associate yourselves with whether they are your learned brothers or learned cousins. Surrounded by so many negative activities and the dangers of implicating innocent people and oblivious to the possession of hidden electronic gadgets, is it asking too much to advise that we be careful about people we associate with? the bishop said in a sermon delivered on Saturday, October 1, 2022. Most Revered Dr. Okine who was speaking at the 65th Legal Year service held in Accra further admonished the Judiciary Service to among other things be consistent, avoid complacency and comport themselves. Jesus tells us to let our yes be yes and our no be no. I dont think I am I far from right to say that lack of consistency is one of the major problems facing our society at the national, religious and family levels, he urged. He further called on the legal luminaries to uphold the reputation of their profession. Among persons in attendance at the 65th legal year service were the Chief Justice, Kwasi Anin-Yeboah and Attorney General, Godfred Dame. Several justices of the Supreme Court of Ghana were also present. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Minister for Communications and Digitalisation (MoCD), Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), this morning participated in a High-level panel and networking breakfast discussions on the topic: Strengthening Womens Empowerment and Leadership in the ITU'. The meeting was organized as part of the 2022 ITU Plenipotentiary Conference which is currently ongoing in Romania and It is the first gender-responsive plenipotentiary. The event is aimed at advancing gender equality by upholding actions on agenda-setting, participation, governance, working environment, and decision-making. The program brought together women ministers from the Six ITU regions ( Africa, America, Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Commonwealth of Independent States and Europe) and delegates who have been committed to bridging the gender digital divide. The hallmark of the gender equality event at PP-22 also aims at fostering global Womens networks, inspire current and future generations of women leaders in telecommunications/ICTs and build an inclusive world. Speaking on the panel, Mrs Owusu-Ekuful indicated that she empowers girls through the Girls-in-ICT initiative which now has three (3) targets for girls in; a). the Primary to JHS; b). Senior High Schools (SHS); c). Tertiary Schools. She explained that the Ministry has dedicated the initiative to leapfrog opportunities that would help bridge the gender digital divide and mentor the girls to take up leadership positions wherever they find themselves (Soft skills). She called on the membership of ITU to invest in and support while consciously involving women in ITU in matters to build their capacities in developing contributions and advocate them during ITU meetings, assemblies and conferences. About the Gender-responsive PP ITU, as the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), is committed to connecting all the worlds people wherever they live and whatever their means. In this context, including a gender perspective in ITUs work is essential to ensure that the benefits of ICTs are made available to all women and men on a fair and equitable basis. Following the PP-2018 recommendation to foster the participation of women in all ITU decision-making processes, together with the Host Country, ITU works to ensure that the PP-22 Conference becomes a gender-responsive event. A gender-responsive event is one that aims to advance gender equality by upholding actions on agenda-setting, participation, governance, working environment, and decision-making which, when used collectively, can work as a system to accelerate, achieve, and sustain gender equality, as well as to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 (SDG 5), and contribute to a gender equal and inclusive society. 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 On Saturday, 24th September 2022, some NDC bigwigs from Ghana met the leadership and membership of the UK & Ireland chapter of the National Democratic congress. In attendance to grace the occasion were the Deputy General Secretary, Lawyer Barbara Asamoah and MP for Salaga South, Hon. Zuweira Mohammed Ibrahimah. The MCs for the occasion, comrade Alhaji Awudu Sannie, Deputy NDC UK/Ireland chapter Secretary and the chapter Organizer, comrade Adamu Musah in a charged atmosphere, led members present in singing the partys anthem and paying tributes to fallen comrades and wounded in the 2020 general election in Techiman South and other parts of Ghana due to the mayhem caused by the NPP vigilante groups. In his speech, the NDC UK & Ireland Chapter Chairman, Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba hinted on some of the challenges the current executives encountered when they took up the leadership mantle. Citing COVID-19 as one of the primary global issues that impeded the activities of the chapter in the run up to election 2020, Chairman Mbalba added that the chapter managed to inaugurate branches in Reading & Berkshire, East London, Telford, Scotland and Republic of Ireland in spite of all the difficulties. He further stated that West London, Swindon and Hampshire/Surrey and Leeds/Bradford branches just to mention but a few are also in the pipe line and very soon all these branches will be inaugurated. Again, with welfare of members being one of the core tenets of the chapter, chairman Mbalba highlighted some proactive measures that was institutionalised to ensure members who were confined in their homes received some support. He further intimated that the leadership is not resting on their laurels but rather extending their tentacles to propagate the good message of the incoming president of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama and the NDC in every the nook and cranny within the United Kingdom. He further conveyed to all present, a directive from Accra in relation to the upcoming branch election and the need for all contestant to treat each other with the uttermost respect. This according to chairman Mbalba will reduce the time needed for healing after the internal election and make the peaceful resolution of election dispute easier and faster. In summing up his speech, Chairman Mbalba, encouraged members present to acquire the Ghana card as it will be needed during the registration process for election 2024. He urged members to leave no stone unturned until victory is won in 2024. He stressed on the need for the party to eliminate any form of complacency but rather continue to work hard as the wind of change in election 2024 could be felt even for those of us in the diaspora. The MP for Salaga South, Hon. Zuweira Mohammed Ibrahim in her address, first congratulated all members of the UK & Ireland Chapter for still believing and staying loyal to the ideals and principles of the party despite all the setbacks in election 2020. Indeed, there were major events according to Hon. Zuweira, that obviously compelled the party to revisit its approach going into any future election but the incoming president of Ghana, President John Mahama, in one of his submissions made reference to the party not going back to the court to seek redress on any electioneering dispute due to the polarised and partisan nature of our current judicial system under the ruling NPP. This implied that a thorough feasibility study must be carried out in terms of availability of logistics and skilled labour to take responsibility for some of the technicalities at the polling stations and coalition centre during the vote counting and certification. It is in view of this, coupled with the hardship Ghanaians are going through, that she made a humble plea to all and sundry within the rank and file of the party to come on board to contribute their widows mite both in cash and kind in order to propel the party to victory in election 2024. She however encouraged all party faithfuls to be actively involved in registering their families for the Ghana Card within the UK especially with the possibility of ROPA taking effect in 2024. Ghanaians and the NDC according to Hon. Zuweira must see election 2024 as a rescue mission that posterity wouldnt forgive us if we fail. She stated that Ghana has nowhere to turn to other than the NDC and that is why its imperative we learn to forgive quickly especially during our internal elections so we can unify our front since the actual enemy awaits us in 2024. The Deputy General Secretary for the party, Lawyer Barbara Asamoah was thankful to the chapter leadership for such a warm reception and praised the executives for being resolute in committing their time and serving the party diligently. She highlighted on the good contributions from the chapter going into election 2020 and how the chapter leadership has meticulously coordinated affairs of the chapter to the admiration of other national executives. Lawyer Barbara Asamoah quickly added that despite all the efforts and commitments, the NDC as a party is still in opposition, meaning the job is not done yet hence the need to continue being consistent in pursuit for victory in election 2024. Touching on the abysmal performance of the Akuffo Addo led administration, Lawyer Asamoah expressed serious concerns on the current poverty index of Ghana and the undulating prices of commodities due to the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedis and excessive borrowing. She said as a party, the NDC has on several occasions made concrete recommendations to the NPP on how best to manage the economy through its MPs in Parliament but as faith may have it, the Akuffo Addos led administration has rejected all good counsel as well as constructive criticism and rather held on to politics of deception and self-proclamation as financial connoisseur despite all the hardships bestowed on the average Ghanaian. Touching on the high level of insecurity in the country, Lawyer Asamoah stressed on how there was never a day without issues on robbery or vigilantes using party colours of the NPP to victimize the innocent Ghanaian. She observed that issues about galamsey and how it is destroying our water bodies are best left unsaid especially when government players rob Peter to pay Paul by preaching virtue but practicing vice. She added that all these are salient issues not only making the government of the day unpopular but rather making Ghanaians miss the leadership of the NDC and president John Dramani Mahama. Lawyer Asamoah enumerated some structures in place within the NDC to ensure events in the past in Ashanti region does not repeat themselves in future electioneering process in the history of our beloved country. Changing of figures on pick sheets, padding of results and victimizing polling agents in some polling stations across the country were observations presented by several party agents in the Ashanti. The party has therefore taken steps to ensure all polling agents are well protected to discharge their duties freely without any form of intimidation or fear. In conclusion, the main Speaker for the event, Lawyer Barbara Asamoah, advised all members never to underrate the extent that their contribution could go in pushing the party back to power in 2024. She said that all ideas are welcome, and members must also be available to take up party duties and responsibilities for the greater good of Ghana. According to Lawyer Asamoah, election 2024 is very promising but its too early to call the shots as the Ghanaian political terrain has changed in the last few elections hence, we should be more focused to the very end. Lawyer Barbara Asamoah's speech was followed by an open forum led by the Chapter Secretary comrade Michael Dzidula Kudiabor. All questions were well answered by the guest speakers and the Chapter Leadership to the admiration of everyone gathered for the occasion. The deputy chapter women Organizer, Madam Rebecca Anoon gave vote of thanks to sum up appreciation of the chapter leadership to everyone who travelled from far and near to see to the success of the programme especially the invited guest from the party head office. Source: Dr Tabbi Wilberforce, Communication Officer Glasgow Branch 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 Veteran Ghanaian actor Ekow Blankson has passed on. News of his death broke in the early hours of Monday, October 3, 2022, after he was rushed to the hospital late on Sunday. Before his passing, the actor who starred in the popular movies Borga and Rhapsody of Love was the Commercial Manager for Ghana's online portal, Ghanaweb. The media mogul who has featured in many television advertisements holds a Masters Degree in Fine Arts and a Diploma in Theatre Arts (Drama) from the University of Ghana, Legon. He was also a graduate of Heineken Global Commerce University, Amsterdam, where he acquired a marketing certificate. The actor, who had an illustrious career in acting spanning more than a decade, has featured in movies including Borga, Frozen Emotion, Savannah, In April, Checkmate, Illusions, A Woman Scorned, and Pool Party, among others. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video " " Students and visitors mingle in Harvard Yard in Cambridge, Massachusetts. One of the Supreme Court's most publicized cases this term focuses on whether Harvard University unfairly discriminates against Asian student applicants. Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images College admissions and scholarships can alter the trajectory of a life. College administrators want diverse student populations but are less clear about which categories including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity and wealth should influence admission and financial aid decisions. When it comes down to the specifics of which people are underrepresented in higher education and which are overrepresented, the questions become thorny. Many different groups feel that they are being mistreated when their specific circumstances and histories are considered. Advertisement The Supreme Court will hear two lawsuits Oct. 31, 2022, brought by the anti-affirmative action organization Students for Fair Admissions. This group argues that Harvard and other schools blatantly discriminate against Asian students. But the claim is a proxy for all other preferences grounded in identity, including those in favor of Black applicants and those disadvantaging whites. The two cases one against Harvard and the other against the University of North Carolina address private as well as public institutions. Nine states currently have laws that ban affirmative action in college admissions. The extent and focus of existing diversity policies vary widely. Universities justifying their diversity policies argue that the 14th Amendment and its guarantee of "equal protection of the laws" encourages giving an advantage to historically oppressed groups. The opponents of affirmative action argue that the 14th Amendment was meant to uphold racial neutrality, meaning all individuals should be treated the same, regardless of race. In this view, the Constitution forbids considering race in almost any decisions that influence individual advancement. The core conflict is whether the equal protection clause protects equality or equity. If is it equality the same treatment of all races, regardless this supports the argument that universities may not give preferences to applicants of one race over another. If the 14th Amendment is found to guarantee equity or trying to create equal outcomes for all by favoring historically disadvantaged groups this supports the argument that affirmative action policies are constitutionally sound, and perhaps even required in public institutions. The current court, with a conservative majority, almost certainly favors the argument that the equal protection clause endorses equality, not equity. In a 2007 ruling on public high schools, for example, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that "the way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race." Miss Universe Bahrain 2022 Evlin Khalifa is attending a pageant boot camp in the Philippines. (Photos: Evlin Khalifa/Instagram) Newly-crowned Miss Universe Bahrain Evlin Khalifa has arrived in the Philippines to undergo intense training, months before the global pageant in January next year. Khalifa took to Instagram to share the news. It has always been my dream to visit the beautiful country of the Philippines, and I cannot believe I am already here, especially [because] I have Filipino cousins here, she said. It feels like a shower of blessing (in Bahrain there is not so much rain so I feel like a kid). Hoping everyone is safe, the Miss Universe candidate added. The 24-year-old beauty queen, alongside Miss Universe Bahrain national director and Dubai fashion icon Josh Yugen, will stay in Manila for two weeks to attend a boot camp led by some of the countrys best. According to the Miss Universe Bahrain organization, Khalifa will also hold a secret photoshoot and media interviews as part of the said preparation. Khalifa said shes excited to feel the warm support of the Filipino community, especially when it comes to pageantry. Growing up in the Middle East, I have encountered a lot of Filipino friends and acquaintances and they are truly one of the most loving, most humble and most happy people I have met, Khalifa said in an interview with The National. After being diagnosed with anorexia, Khalifa aims to spread awareness on eating disorders and advocate for a healthy lifestyle. The beauty queen holds a degree in finance and banking. Khalifa bested more than 300 candidates to be crowned Miss Universe Bahrain last September. The Philippines is known as a pageant powerhouse, with four Miss Universe titles under its belt. The last time a Filipina won the Miss Universe crown was by Catriona Gray in 2018. Recently, the Philippines also received a warm shout-out from Miss Universe Spain, who spoke about her time living in the country and the positive influence it had on her. The 71st Miss Universe competition will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States on January 14, 2023. Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu from India is the reigning title holder. Story continues Le Baltar is a Manila-based freelance journalist, covering entertainment and lifestyle stories for Yahoo Philippines. Follow them on Twitter @baltarle for latest news and updates. The views expressed are their own. Watch more videos on Yahoo: In a Facebook post, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict thanked Lorraine Badoy Partosa for her continued volunteering time and effort in championing "for NTF-ELCAC in her own private capacity." (Photo: NTF-ELCAC/Facebook) Former National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) spokesperson Lorraine Badoy Partosa, said in a Facebook post last Wednesday (September 28) that she did not threaten Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Marlo Magdoza Malagar. "I would like to assure the Justices of the Supreme Court that I did not, in any way, threaten Judge Marlo Malagar. Nothing could be further from the truth," wrote Badoy. She stressed that she was merely practicing her "constitutional right to an opinion." In the post the [Communisty Party of the Philippines-New Peoples Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF)] said I deleted (but did not), I practiced my Constitutional right to an opinion by questioning what has enraged the Filipino people: the egregious decision of Judge Malagar when she said that this terrorist organization, the CPP NPA NDF is not a terrorist organization, Badoy said. She also said that in her now-deleted post slamming Malagar, she used a "hypothetical syllogism" to make her point that her decision to not declare the CPP and NPA as terrorist organizations were "absurd and dangerous." In her earlier post, Badoy had said: "So if I kill this judge and I do so out of my political belief that all allies of the CPP NPA NDF must be killed because there is no difference in my mind between a member of the CPP NPA NDF and their friends, please be lenient with me." She stressed in her newest statement, "So I hope I am clear here. It is not I who has the track record for murders, massacres, tortures, rape, inhumanity but the terrorist CPP NPA NDF." In the same post, Badoy also praised the Supreme Court for its decisions on the cases related to red-tagging and the Anti-Terror Law. "It was our Supreme Court that made it exceedingly clear that redtagging does not exist when they ruled in Zarate vs Aquino that there is no danger to life, liberty and security when someone is identified as a member of the CPP NPA NDF. Story continues Last April, Badoy claimed that the Supreme Court said that there is no threat to life, liberty, and security for red-tagged persons. However, media nonprofit VERA Files said, in fact-checking Badoy, that the Supreme Court has not yet decided on the issue, and that the Court of Appeals decision junking the petition for writ of Amparo and habeas data of human rights groups Karapatan, Gabriela, and Rural Missionaries of the Philippines was "pro hac vice," or applicable only in the case. "Although the CA decision, penned by Associate Justice Mario Lopez, indeed said there is lack of substantial evidence to establish the petitioners allegations against the governments violation and threat to their rights of life, liberty, security, and privacy, among others, nowhere in the ruling does it assert there is no red-tagging, said the NGO. 3 Oct Piolo Pascual is not putting high hopes on being cast in season 2 of his son's American series, "Monarch" despite his high chances. The actor, who spoke about son Inigo Pascual's success in nabbing a role in a Hollywood project, stated that his son had called him up before about the possibility of Piolo playing the father of Inigo's character in the series. It is noted that Inigo's character, Ace, is the grandson of "Monarch" lead character Dottie, played by Susan Sarandon, and is adopted from the Philippines. "I just told him that we'll cross the bridge when we get there. There is no word yet if there will be a season 2. I should say that acting in Hollywood is already a different ball game," he said. However, the actor does admit that he is proud of Inigo, who is able to star in his first US show at the age of 25. "I'd be more than proud to be called 'the father of Inigo Pascual.' I actually got a text message asking me how it feels that my surname, Pascual, is already part of the credits of a major Hollywood show. That is already a blessing. Inigo has really gone a long way," he added. Inigo Pascual is part of Susan Sarandon's series, 'Monarch' (Photo Source: Inigo Pascual Instagram) Cheng Cao working in the PMS Lab at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Credit: University of Ottawa Some 250 million years agolong before dinosaurs roamed the earthglobal warming and acid oceans caused by the rapid volcanic emission of the Siberian Traps led to the Permian-Triassic mass extinction, which resulted in the elimination of over 95% of marine and 70% of terrestrial life. Then Mother Nature did what it does bestreplenish herself. But why did it take her so long to do so? That's what an international team of researchers led by Professor Xiao-Ming Liu (University of North Carolina, Earth, Marine and Environmental Sciences), her Ph.D. student Cheng Cao (now postdoctoral fellow, Nanjing University) and her former postdoctoral scholar Clement P. Bataille (now Associate Professor, Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Ottawa), investigated over a six-year span. Their findings are published today in Nature Geoscience. Where the understudy takes on a lead role Their study demonstrates the incredible connection between life, climate, and Earth's ability to replenish itself, along with the impact that the disappearance of a single organism (in this case, a single group of tiny marine organisms, the radiolarians) contributed to making the Earth almost un-habitable for millions of years. Their main message is that every single organism on this planet plays a sometimes hidden yet critical role to regulate biogeochemical cycles, and that it should encourage us to lean into the conservation, and stewardship of our planet. We sat down with professor Bataille to learn more about this study and its impact: Professor Bataille, please explain what your big discovery was. Clement Bataille: With this study, we propose a solution to explain the protracted recovery of life after the most severe mass extinction event, the Permian-Triassic mass extinction (The Permian extinction was caused by the massive volcanic eruption of the Siberian Traps and the associated warming and ocean acidification which eliminated over 95% of marine and 70% of terrestrial species.). For decades, scientists have been puzzled by the absence of life recovery after this mass extinction, combined with the persistence of inhabitable environmental conditions on the planet. The typical regulation mechanisms observed after other mass extinction events, particularly chemical weathering, appeared to have been unsuccessful at returning Earth to more habitable conditions after the Permian-Triassic mass extinction. It took more than 5 million years after the end of massive Siberian Traps volcanism for life to recover in the Early Triassic. We demonstrate that this protracted recovery can be explained by an increase in reverse weathering in the ocean driven by the extinction of little microorganisms called radiolarians. This understudied mechanism would have maintained a hot greenhouse climate and acid oceans for millions of years, preventing life to recover. Only when those radiolarians reappeared after several million years was Earth able to return to habitable conditions and life to recover fully. When and where did this research take place? C.B.: This research took place between 2016 and 2022. Most analyses were conducted in Xiao-Ming Liu's laboratory at the Department of Earth, Marine and Environmental Sciences, the University of North Carolina, between 2016 and 2019 by Cheng Cao and Clement P. Bataille. The modeling was performed by Cheng Cao between 2018 and 2020. The paper was written in several iterations between 2020 and 2021 by Cheng Cao, Clement P. Bataille, and Xiao-Ming Liu. The results were so surprising that it took us several years to properly defend our hypothesis. What are your main findings? What is explained that we did not know or understand before? C.B.: The Permian-Triassic mass extinction (251.9 million years ago), also colloquially named the Great Dying, is the largest known mass extinction event in the history of our planet. During this event, the majority of marine and terrestrial species disappeared in a short amount of time. This mass extinction event was triggered by massive volcanism, the Siberian Traps, which emitted gigantic amounts of greenhouse gases, increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide, elevating temperature, and acidifying oceans. However, unlike other mass extinction events where life recovered quickly and re-diversified, it took more than 5 million years for life to recover from this mass extinction. Marine and terrestrial conditions remained inhospitable for life with persistently hot temperatures, ocean acidification, and recurrent ocean anoxia for millions of years. The persistence of these conditions puzzled scientists for years because the Siberian Traps' volcanic activity stopped after a few hundreds of thousand years. Usually when emission stops, the Earth has a mechanism called chemical weathering that acts to regulate climate back to more habitable conditions. Chemical weathering encompasses all the reactions that alter rocks on the surface of Earth. As rocks are altered, they release some calcium, which when transported to the ocean can combine with carbon dioxide to form carbonates. With this mechanism, Earth regulates its climate, because when the planet warms, rocks weather faster, and more carbonate rocks are deposited in the ocean, ultimately decreasing atmospheric carbon dioxide and cooling the climate. However, during the Early Triassic, despite evidences of increased chemical weathering, this mechanism failed to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide, the climate remained very hot, and the oceans [remained] acid, preventing life from coming back. In this study, we managed to reconcile these contradictory observations to explain why environmental conditions remained uninhabitable for so long after the mass extinction almost leading to the disappearance of life on Earth. And how was this research conducted? C.B.: In this study, we used lithium isotopes in Permian and Early Triassic marine carbonates to reconstruct lithium isotopes in the ocean during that period. Isotopes are the different forms of an element that exist in nature and the proportion of these isotopes in substrates provides information about processes happening on Earth. Carbonate rocks precipitate directly from the ocean and could preserve the isotope composition of the ocean of the period during which they formed. Our initial idea when using lithium isotopes was to get some insights into the chemical weathering processes occurring on land during the Permian-Triassic period. It is well-known that lithium isotope composition in the ocean responds to changes in chemical weathering on land because the isotopes are discriminated during chemical weathering reactions. However, when we analyzed lithium isotopes in those ancient carbonates, we discovered that the lithium isotope composition of the ocean decreased dramatically just before the extinction event and remained at extremely low values throughout the Early Triassic. We first verified that this signal was real by making sure we were recording the original isotope composition of the Permian-Triassic periods. Once this was confirmed, we could not explain the very low lithium isotope composition observed in the ocean for this period by invoking only changes in terrestrial chemical weathering. Something else had to be at play. So we focused our attention on another, much less studied mechanism called reverse weathering, which we knew could have a large impact on marine lithium isotope composition. Reverse weathering occurs on the ocean floor and consists of the formation of marine clays by precipitation of silica and other cations dissolved in seawater. However, for this reaction of reverse weathering to occur at a high rate, the ocean needs to have high concentrations of dissolved silica. In the modern ocean, the concentration of dissolved silica is very low because little organisms called silicifiers (diatoms) uptake almost all this silica to make their shells. These low concentrations of silica considerably limit reverse weathering reactions to occur on the ocean floor. However, we noticed that during the Late Permian, those little silicifier organisms went extinct. Once these organisms went extinct, dissolved silica in the ocean increase rapidly and nothing prevented the ocean from forming massive amounts of marine clays (i.e., increase rates of reverse weathering). While reverse weathering reactions consume dissolved silica, they unfortunately also emit carbon dioxide. Therefore, as reverse weathering reactions increased so did the atmospheric carbon dioxide levels maintaining global warming and ocean acidification even after the Siberian Traps volcanoes stopped emitting carbon dioxide. As these little silicifiers did not recover until more than 5 million years after the Permian-Triassic mass extinction event, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels remained high, ocean acidification persisted, and environmental conditions remained largely inhabitable. Interestingly, this could have occurred even if the rate of chemical weathering on land was high, explaining the paradoxical observation of the high weathering rate and greenhouse climate of the Early Triassic. During the Early Triassic period, Earth failed to reduce the high atmospheric carbon dioxide levels because reverse weathering kept emitting large amounts of carbon dioxide. Is there anything you'd like to add? C.B.: This study demonstrates the incredible linkages and feedback between life, climate, and Earth's habitability. It is amazing to think about how the disappearance of a single group of tiny marine organisms (radiolarians), contributed to making Earth almost uninhabitable for millions of years. It is a great lesson for our modern times. Humans are currently contributing to the sixth mass extinction. Among the disappearance of iconic species like large terrestrial mammals, hundreds of other unstudied species are disappearing. We should bear in mind that every single organism on this planet can play a hidden but critical role to regulate biogeochemical cycles. It should encourage every single one of us to act for conservation, and stewardship of our beautiful home. Explore further Mysterious climate behavior during Earth's most severe mass extinction event explained More information: Cheng Cao et al, Persistent late permian to early triassic warmth linked to enhanced reverse weathering, Nature Geoscience (2022). Journal information: Nature Geoscience Cheng Cao et al, Persistent late permian to early triassic warmth linked to enhanced reverse weathering,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41561-022-01009-x Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles isolated from a patient. Credit: NIAID A physicist at the University of California, Riverside, and her former graduate student have successfully modeled the formation of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that spreads COVID-19, for the first time. In a paper published in Viruses, a journal, Roya Zandi, a professor of physics and astronomy at UCR, and Siyu Li, a postdoctoral researcher at Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory in China, offer an overall understanding of the assembly and formation of SARS-CoV-2 from its constituent components. "Understanding viral assembly has always been a key step leading to therapeutic strategies," Zandi said. "Numerous experiments and simulations of viruses such as HIV and hepatitis B virus have had a remarkable impact on elucidating their assembly and providing means to combat them. Even the simplest questions regarding the formation of SARS-CoV-2 remain unanswered." Zandi explained that a critical step in the life cycle of any virus is the packaging of its genome into new virions or virus particles. This is an especially challenging task for coronaviruses, like SARS-CoV-2, with their very large RNA genomes. Indeed, coronaviruses have the largest genome known for a virus that uses RNA as its genetic material. SARS-CoV-2 has four structural proteins: Envelope (E), Membrane (M), Nucleocapsid (N), and Spike (S). The structural proteins M, E, and N are essential for the assembly and formation of the viral envelope the outermost layer of the virus that protects the virus and helps facilitate entry into host cells. This process occurs at the membrane of the Endoplasmic Reticulum Golgi Intermediate Compartment, or ERGIC, a complex membrane system that provides the coronavirus its lipid envelope. The assembly of coronaviruses is unique compared to many other viruses as this process occurs at the ERGIC membrane. Most computational studies to date use coarse-grained models where only details relevant at large length scales are used to mimic viral components. Over the years, the coarse-grained models have explained several virus assembly processes leading to important discoveries. "In this paper, using coarse-grained models, we have been able to successfully model the formation of SARS-CoV-2: the N proteins condense the RNA to form the compact RNP complex, which interacts with the M proteins that are embedded in the lipid membrane," Zandi said. She added that "budding," which is when a part of the membrane starts to curve up, completes the virus formation. The model Zandi and Li developed allowed them to explore mechanisms of protein oligomerization, RNA condensation by structural proteins, and cellular membrane-protein interactions. It also allowed them to predict the factors that control virus assembly. "Our work reveals key ingredients and components contributing to the packaging of the long genome of SARS-CoV-2," Li said. "The experimental studies regarding the specific role of each of the several structural proteins involved in the formation of viral particles are soaring but many details remain unclear." According to Zandi, the insight presented in the research paper and the comparison of the findings with those observed experimentally could provide some of these details and inform the design of effective antiviral drugs to arrest coronaviruses in the assembly stage. "The physical aspects of coronavirus assembly explored within our model are of interest not just to physical scientists beginning to apply physics-based methods to the study of enveloped viruses, but also to virologists attempting to locate the key protein interactions in virus assembly and budding," she said. "We now have a better understanding of what interactions are important for the packaging of the genome and the formation of the virus. This is the first time we have been able to fine-tune the interaction between the genome and proteins and obtain the genome condensation and the assembly simultaneously." The title of the paper is "Biophysical Modeling of SARS-CoV-2 Assembly: Genome Condensation and Budding." Explore further Simulations on how a virus packages its genetic material could help design nanocontainers used in drug delivery More information: Siyu Li et al, Biophysical Modeling of SARS-CoV-2 Assembly: Genome Condensation and Budding, Viruses (2022). Siyu Li et al, Biophysical Modeling of SARS-CoV-2 Assembly: Genome Condensation and Budding,(2022). DOI: 10.3390/v14102089 Rhesus macaques in the city of Shimla, northern India. Credit: Dr. Krishna Balasubramaniam New research has mapped how infectious diseases spread among wildlife populations in areas where humans and wildlife live in close proximity. The study has identified the animals, specifically wild monkeys that live in large groups alongside human settlements, that may act as "superspreaders." It found that monkeys with the most human interactions are responsible for the largest outbreaks. This is because these locations where monkeys and humans come into close contact, typically around sources of food, can attract monkeys from different groups and sub-groups. It is at these human-wildlife hotspots that monkeys closely interact with monkeys they wouldn't regularly mix with, leading to larger outbreaks. With a rising global population meaning that human settlements increasingly encroach on the natural ranges of wild animals, there is a growing risk from both zoonotic diseases that "spillover" from wildlife to humans and zooanthroponotic diseases that "spillback" from humans and cause outbreaks among wildlife. Published in the journal Scientific Reports and led by Dr. Krishna Balasubramaniam of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), the research used epidemiological computer models to simulate how infectious diseases may spread among monkeys living in urban and peri-urban areas of South and South-East Asia. It is the first study to use simulations to compare disease spread through animals' social behavior, to disease spread through animals' tendencies to congregate around and interact with humans. The team of researchers, including academics from University of California, Davis, monitored the behavior of rhesus macaques, long-tailed macaques, and bonnet macaques in northern India, Malaysia, and southern India respectively. In these locations, wild macaques frequently share space with humans, and their interactions with people often focus around accessing food. The researchers gathered detailed behavioral data on interactions between humans and individual monkeys as well as interactions between monkeys within the same group, within which individuals have strong social connections. This information was collected from 10 separate groups of macaques across the three Indian and Malaysian locations. This behavioral data was fed into mathematical Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) epidemiological models to simulate the impact of outbreaks of human diseases of varying transmissibility such as the influenza virus, Coronaviruses, and the measles virus. Computer simulations were run 100,000 times in total across the 10 groups and across the different human diseases, and the vulnerability of these macaque populations to human-induced disease outbreaks was evaluated. The study found that the size of the outbreak was positively predicted by the centrality within the group of the first-infected macaqueif that individual is better connected within its social network, it would lead to a larger outbreak. The second key finding is that the centrality of the first-infected individual, based on both its congregations with other monkeys around humans and its interactions with humans, plays a greater role in predicting the scale of outbreak than how central it is within its own group. This is because macaques may congregate around human-provisioned food alongside other macaques with whom they would otherwise not interact that often. The study revealed that these situations seem to create additional pathways for disease transmission and therefore lead to larger outbreaks. The researchers believe this work could be vital for helping to identify individual monkeys that are the most sociable, and tend to congregate around and interact with humans the most. Targeting these with vaccinations or other forms of medical treatment could potentially protect both macaque populations and humans in areas where they live in close proximity. Dr. Krishna Balasubramaniam, Lecturer in Conservation & Animal Behavior at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said, "COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of understanding infectious disease transmission among wildlife populations in urban and peri-urban areas. Population expansion has increased the contact between humans and wildlife, and these human-wildlife interfaces are widely recognized as 'hotspots' for the transmission of diseases across a variety of species. "Our research focused on the potential impact of a human-borne disease spreading through wild macaque populations. Being so closely related to humans, macaques are highly vulnerable to the same diseases that infect people. Indeed, previous work by other researchers established that macaques may be infected by human gastrointestinal and respiratory pathogens. Here we showed how respiratory pathogens in particular might spread through macaque populations, and specifically how their behavior might influence such spreading. "Through fieldwork and modeling, our research identified which individuals are most likely to act as 'superspreaders' of disease, leading to larger outbreaks. How central the individual was within its own group had an effect on the size of outbreak, but interestingly the stronger predictor of whether a macaque would go on to cause a large outbreak was its tendency to congregate around humans with macaques from other sub-groups. "Sources of human-provided food can act as a 'honeypot' and lead to macaques coming into very close contact with individuals with whom they may otherwise have less contact, for instance monkeys from other families or sub-groups. "As well as being 'superspreaders' within their species, these individuals with the most human contact also pose the highest risk for interspecies disease transmission events, either from humans into wildlife, or vice-versa. These would be the most effective targets for disease control strategies such as vaccination or antimicrobial treatment." Explore further Feeding wildlife can disrupt animal social structures More information: Impact of joint interactions with humans and social interactions with conspecifcs on the risk of zooanthroponotic outbreaks among wildlife populations, Scientific Reports (2022). Journal information: Scientific Reports Impact of joint interactions with humans and social interactions with conspecifcs on the risk of zooanthroponotic outbreaks among wildlife populations,(2022). In the face of governmental efforts to dismantle Indigenous agricultural economies, Indigenous communities have made important strides toward food sovereignty. Credit: Shutterstock Indigenous communities are increasingly investing in agriculture to sustain their cultures and economies. Indigenous Peoples have a long history with agriculturea history that wasn't always recognized. For much of the 20th century, scholars claimed that Indigenous farmers in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United States (CANZUS) were marginal food producers who employed unsustainable farming practices, like slashing and burning, that led to environmental declines and their ultimate downfall. These scholars argued that the "primitiveness" of Indigenous agriculture was reflected in the technologies they used. They posited that tools used by Indigenous Peoples, like the digging stick, were rudimentary compared to the more advanced plow cultivation used by European farmers. We now know those claims are incorrect; Indigenous Peoples throughout CANZUS have long engaged in sophisticated forms of agriculture. By some estimates, Indigenous farmers out-produced European wheat farmers in the 17th and 18th centuries by a margin of three to five times per acre. Despite Indigenous communities' increasing desire to engage in large-scale commercial agriculture, there is still a lack of data about Indigenous engagement in the agriculture sector in CANZUS. This data is crucial to informing policies that set out to support Indigenous engagement and diversity in the agriculture sector. Indigenous food sovereignty Through the erasure of Indigenous agricultural histories, premised on the notion of terra nullius, CANZUS governments justified their appropriation of Indigenous lands and the territorial dispossession of Indigenous Peoples. Latin for "land belonging to no one", terra nullius was a legal term used in the Doctrine of Discovery to refer to land that was not occupied by the settlers or used according to their law and culture. Such land was considered "vacant" and available for colonization. Yet in the face of governmental efforts to dismantle Indigenous agricultural economies, Indigenous Peoples have remained resilient and are making important strides toward food sovereignty through the revitalization of Indigenous food systems and cultural traditions. Beyond food sovereignty, by reclaiming their agricultural roots, Indigenous Peoples are also alleviating food insecurity and contributing to economic development in their communities. As supporters of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, it's important that CANZUS governments prioritize and support these Indigenous food sovereignty initiatives. National databases are lacking Although Indigenous Peoples have been participating in the agriculture sector since precolonial times, it hasn't been until recently that contemporary agriculture has become a policy focus for Indigenous community development and well-being. However, little knowledge exists about contemporary Indigenous agriculture in CANZUS because of the lack of comprehensive databases at the national level. National scale data collection tools that are currently available are still fairly new or non-existent. Food sovereignty allows Indigenous Peoples to control the mechanisms and policies of their own food production and distribution. Credit: Shutterstock 1. Canada In Canada, the Census of Agriculture does not allow farm and ranch producers to self-identify as Indigenous. However, data from the Census of Agriculture and the Census of Population provide some information about Indigenous engagement in agricultural activities. Data from both censuses is linked using information which is common to both questionnaires such as name, sex, birth date and address of the operators. This information is used to create the Agriculture-Population linkage database, which provides useful information about Indigenous engagement in agriculture in Canada. 2. Australia Australia does not maintain a national scale database on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (collectively referred to as Indigenous) production in the agriculture sector. The Australian Bureau of Statistics' Agriculture Census also doesn't allow farm and ranch producers to self-identify as Indigenous, which creates a significant data gap about Indigenous agricultural operations in Australia. Despite this, there is still information available about the people employed in the industry, including those who identify as Indigenous, through the Australian Bureau of Statistics' Census of Population and Housing. 3. New Zealand In New Zealand, information about Maori farms (the Maori are the Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, or Aotearoa in the Maori language), are compiled using the Agricultural Production Survey. Maori farms are identified by matching the survey to three sources of data: Maori enterprises from the Maori authorities, self-identified Maori businesses from the business operations survey and a database held by Statistics New Zealand's partner Poutama Trust. The matching process yields information about Maori engagement in agriculture, such as the number of agricultural operations, livestock and horticulture crops Maori farm operations have. 4. United States In the U.S., a national scale data collection effort was piloted in 2002 in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota to collect information about agricultural activity on American Indian reservations. Starting with the 2007 Census of Agriculture, this pilot project was expanded to include reservations across the U.S. The Census of Agriculture in the U.S. allows farm and ranch producers to self-report agricultural activity on American Indian reservations. If producers don't respond to the mailed report, census employeesmany who are tribal members that can bridge language or cultural barriers follow up with them in person to help them completing their forms. The process yields an overview of agricultural activity on reservations in the U.S. Better data is needed The lack of baseline data on the scale and scope of Indigenous involvement in the agriculture sector continues to be an obstacle to effective engagement of Indigenous communities within the sector. This gap in data prevents governments and agri-food organizations from knowing what kinds of supports should be provided to reinvigorate Indigenous agricultural economies. In order to better support the involvement of Indigenous Peoples in agriculture, more accurate data is needed. Being able to collect such data is crucial for developing a framework for Indigenous Peoples and communities that are interested in starting or expanding their engagement with the agriculture sector. Explore further Blockchain gives Indigenous Americans control over their genomic data This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Kenya's new president says the Cabinet has "effectively" lifted the country's ban on openly cultivating genetically modified crops, reversing a decade-old decision as the East African country struggles with food security and a deadly drought. "Open cultivation and importation of White (GMO) Maize is now authorized," the presidency statement said Monday, after years of concerns in Kenya and much of the African continent over the safety of genetically modified foods. Earlier this year, the United States via its trade representative's office criticized Kenya over its ban and the effects on U.S. agricultural exports to East Africa's commercial hub. The ban also affected food aid, the office asserted in its annual report published in March. U.S. Trade Rep. Katherine Tai led the U.S. delegation to Ruto's inauguration last month and noted the new president's support for shared "regional priorities" including enhancing two-way trade. The Cabinet was meeting to discuss the drought that affects 23 of Kenya's 47 counties and strategies for longer-term food security in the country of more than 50 million people. It discussed "significantly redefining agriculture in Kenya by adopting crops that are resistant to pests and disease" and considered reports on the "adoption of biotechnology," the presidency said. Agriculture is a main driver of Kenya's economy, and about 70% of the rural workforce is in farming. Ruto, a former agriculture minister, seeks greater agricultural productivity. Many African countries have bans on genetically modified agriculture, amid concerns about potentially harmful effects on smallholder farms, existing crops, the environment and people's long-term health. The presidency statement noted that Kenya's Cabinet in 2019 made a limited step by approving the commercialization of a genetically enhanced variety of cotton to resist the African bollworm pest. Explore further Kenya backs farming of Monsanto-created GM crop 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain It's a question that follows any natural disaster, especially monster hurricanes like Ian: Was this caused by climate change? When asked, scientists like Kevin Reed usually push back. Most researchers agree it's not valid to point to a single storm and say it was "caused" by the warming world. Too many variables. "That is a question that is really difficult to answer. There is no 'what would have September 2022 looked like without climate change?' We don't have that," said Reed, an associate professor in the school of marine and atmospheric sciences at Stony Brook University. But there's a growing consensus that the sea level rise and higher temperatures in the last hundred years have already impacted storms like Ian, which raked Florida last week, and may continue to do so in the future. At the very least, hotter weather means hotter oceans, which fuel hurricane strength. "We live in a world that's over 1 degree warmer (Celsius), there's no doubt that hurricanes have changed in some respect because of climate change," he said. Tom Knutson, a senior scientist at NOAA studying climate and hurricanes, said scientists are most confident in noticing what's changed about storms in the modern world. But less so about being able to connect those changes to climate change. Predicting what the future could hold is even tougher. That's because hurricanes and global weather patterns are devilishly complicated. Some of the changes in the atmosphere and storms, for example, can be attributed to the high levels of physical air pollution, beyond greenhouse gases, spewed into the atmosphere. Storm-tracking technology also has massively improved in recent centuries. Scientists agree we now are catching many more "junk storms"short-lived and weak cyclonesthan ever. That can skew data, which is why most scientists are cautious when drawing a direct line between a hotter globe and hurricanes numbers. "It's quite a complex picture and adding to the complexity, we're inferring many of these things from climate models which themselves have uncertainty," Knutson said. "We have to be careful." Here's where the science stands on several fronts: Higher storm surge likely Sea levels near South Florida have already risen about eight inches since 1950, according to NOAA tidal gauge data. That means the water is starting from a higher base level, allowing hurricane surge to reach a few inches higher and cover more ground. Researchers expect sea level rise to accelerate as hotter temperatures cause polar ice sheets to melt faster. Over the next century, South Florida can expect to see more than three feet of sea level rise, according to estimates from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). That will push storm surge higher when hurricanes roll through coastal communities. One 2020 study modeled what 21 hurricanes that struck between 2000 and 2013 might look like under the climate conditions expected in 2100. The researchers estimated that, on average, floods would have been about 30% worse and covered about a quarter more land. More extreme rainfall One of the most straightforward connections between climate change and hurricanes is rain. Like anyone who's experienced humidity knows, warmer air holds more moisture. For every 2 degrees Fahrenheit of warming, there is about 8% more water in the atmosphere, and the world has warmed at least 2 degrees Fahrenheit since pre-industrial times. So perhaps it's no surprise that one study of the 2020 hurricane season found an average 8% increase in 3-day rainfall totals for hurricanes, and a 5% increase for tropical storms. The lead author, Stony Brook's Reed, said they also found that a hotter planet increased the rate of rainfall. In the 2020 season, three-hour rainfall rates would increase 10% or higher for tropical storms and hurricanes. "If you experience a similar storm in the future it's going to rain more because of climate change," he said. "If you had 30 inches of rain, you could say over 2.5 inches of that rain was due to climate change, meaning it would not have rained as much if we hadn't heated the planet." Reed and his colleagues also produced a rapid study of Hurricane Ian on Thursday that suggested a 10% increase in extreme rain rates due to human-caused climate change. This body of research, known as attribution science, looks to answer the question of how climate change influenced a particular storm. In Reed's case, he and his colleagues load up a powerful supercomputer weather model with the exact track and data from a modern-day storm, then re-set the clock back to the temperature and atmospheric conditions of the 1850s. The clearest change they see is the storms are far less wet when set in the past. Getting stronger faster One of the most dangerous features of hurricanes is rapid intensification, which is when a storm's top wind speeds increase 35 mph or more in a single day. It's also difficult to predict so when a storm suddenly strengthens near the shore, coastal communities have little time to prepare or evacuate. Early studies suggest climate change has already made rapid intensification more common. A 2021 IPCC report found that "the global frequency of [tropical cyclone] rapid intensification events has likely increased over the past four decades" and added that researchers have "medium confidence" that "none of these changes can be explained by natural variability alone." Researchers can say with much more certainty that the conditions that lead to rapid intensification are becoming more common. Sea surface temperatures are rising at a rate of 0.14 degrees Fahrenheit per decade, according to NOAA, and atmospheric moisture is increasing between one and two percent per decade, according to the IPCC. Both of these factors may give future hurricanes more fuel to turbocharge their growth. Meanwhile, NOAA and Columbia University researchers predict that climate change will weaken vertical wind shear, an atmospheric feature that can pump the brakes on rapid intensification. "We've seen multiple studies that show the conditions in the North Atlantic basin are providing more opportunities for storms to intensify," said Kieran Bhatia, a former climate researcher at Princeton University who is now a vice president for the climate change perils advisory team at the insurance broker Guy Carpenter. Fewer hurricanes, but stronger Climate change might make hurricanes more intense but less frequent. Reliable global records of hurricane intensity only go back about four decades, when weather satellites began scientists to accurately estimate the strength of storms. In the years since, hurricanes appear to be getting stronger, according to a 2020 paper from researchers at NOAA and the University of Wisconsin. They found that the likelihood that a cyclone will reach Category 3 wind speedsthe threshold to be designated a "major hurricane"has risen about 25% since 1979, as extra heat in the oceans and atmosphere gives storms more fuel to grow. But even as climate change makes storms stronger, scientists believe it is weakening the ocean currents that help cyclones form in the first placeparticularly the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC), which pulls warm surface waters from the tropics across the Atlantic Ocean. The IPCC's 2021 report says the AMOC, which also powers the Gulf Stream, is "very likely" to weaken over the 21st century. As a result, hurricanes may become less frequent. A July paper published in Nature Climate Change estimated that tropical cyclones formed 13% less often in the 20th century than they did between 1850 and 1900. Although hurricane data before the satellite era is spotty, the international team of researchers combined real world observations with simulations from climate models to fill in the gaps and estimate the number of hurricanes that may have formed from 1850 to 2012. "A string of consecutive seasons with Category 5s, that's something more consistent with what we'd expect in a warmer climate ... as opposed to a higher number of storms," Brian Soden, a professor of atmospheric sciences at the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, told the Miami Herald in 2020. Slower and wetter storms Jim Kosin, a climate scientist at the NOAA Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies in Madison, Wisconsin, published a paper in 2018 that suggested that tropical storms and hurricanes around the world had slowed down about 10% between 1949 and 2016, and hit the brakes even harder over land. It was met with some criticism in the scientific community, but he followed it up with another research paper with NASA's Timothy Hall in 2019 that narrowed in on the slowdown of storms near the North American coast since 1950. They found that hurricane forward speed has decreased since 1900, which can lead to even more rainfall and flooding as a storm stalls over land. "More study is needed to determine how much more slowing will occur with continued warming. Still, it's entirely plausible that local rainfall increases could actually be dominated by this slowdown rather than the expected rain-rate increases due to global warming," Kossin told a NOAA blog. Knutson, with NOAA, called it "the most convincing evidence of a trend I've seen so far." But he cautioned that just because the trend was observed doesn't automatically mean climate change is to blame. "That's an open research question." More landfalls may be in future In the past, many storms at sea went undetected unless reported by vessels unlucky enough to encounter them. But good records go back a century or more on ones that make shore. New research by Knutson, based on running past data into a computer model, projects what might happen to hurricane paths in the future if global warming continues unchecked. He found that while the number of storms making landfall hasn't really changed that much in the last century, an increasing fraction could in the future could. Combined with other research suggesting that fewer but more powerful storms could form in the future, Knutson said his findings suggest that cities are in for fewer, but increasingly intense hits. "It's kind of several effects cutting in different directions," he said. Ever the careful scientist, Knutson also cautioned that his work was only a prediction. "That's in the model. We'll see what happens in the real world," he said. 2022 Miami Herald. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. (A) Illustration showing the experimental setup. Exogenous nutrients were added to an existing Synechococcus-heterotrophic bacterial mutualistic coculture system and Synechococcus growth was monitored for 450 days. The timescale below the culture flasks illustrates the start and end of each phase with their corresponding observed (visually) color change. (B) Real-time visual color change within the coculture system and in the axenic Synechococcus sp. PCC7002 culture. Credit: Shailesh Nair A phytoplankton almost as old as Earthabout 3 billion years compared to the planet's 4.5 billion yearsstill holds secrets, including how it can survive starvation in the most nutrient-deficient oceans. Synechococcus is the most geographically diverse of three phytoplankton species, contributing to a quarter of the oceans' primary production and appearing in both frigid polar waters and warm tropical seas. Now, researchers from the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), may have discovered who to thank for the phytoplankton's persistent existence: heterotrophic bacteria. In a series of multi-year experiments, the team found that Synechococcus and the bacteria that feed on them may have an inherent tendency toward mutualism and will undergo significant changes to encourage each other's survival. The marine algae Synechococcus and its associated heterotrophic bacterial community have an inseparably close relationship. Their findings were published on Sept. 30 in Science Advances. Previous studies include one in which the phytoplankton and its bacterial community thrived for more than two years without any external nutrient support. According to Prof. Zhang Yongyu from QIBEBT, these results hint at microbial interactions that may sustain long-term Synechococcus growth, but only in controlled and consistent experimental circumstances. However, unlike laboratory culture systems, the ocean is not static and experiences changes in environmental factors, including nutrients. "This study was carried out to understand how changes in environmental factors, such as the availability of external nutrients, will influence the mutualistic relationship between the Synechococcus and heterotrophic bacterial community," said corresponding author Prof. Zhang. Mimicking the change in marine environment, the researchers supplied sterile inorganic nutrients to the established mutualistic coculture of Synechococcus and a diverse bacterial community from their previous study. The two-year-old stable and mutually beneficial relationship buckled but did not break. "Our findings suggest that the availability of external nutrient sources disrupts the established mutualism, leading to the collapse of Synechococcus health," said co-first author Shailesh Nair, postdoctoral scholar at QIBEBT. "However, once the external nutrients were exhausted, over the next 450 days, Synechococcus and heterotrophic bacteria gradually re-established their metabolic mutualism under long-term coexistence that revived Synechococcus health." Through genetic analysis and tracing the nitrogen in the system, the researchers determined that the bacteria facilitated nitrogen fixation, converting nitrogen for use in buoying the phytoplankton, which triggered the re-established mutualism. "During the process, bacterial community structure and functions underwent tremendous adjustments to achieve the driving effect, and the bacteria's cogeneration of nitrogen, phosphorus, iron and vitamin B12 sustained Synechococcus's prolonged healthy growth," said co-first author Zhang Zenghu, associate professor at QIBEBT. These findings suggest that Synechococcus and heterotrophic bacteria may have an inherent tendency towards mutualism, which can be re-established after environmental interference. This natural, recurrent trait of Synechococcus and heterotrophic bacteria may exhibit their co-evolutionary adaptations in nutrient-deficient environments for survival. While the researchers said they believe this study answered the longstanding question about the tenacity of Synechococcus, they now have several more questions they plan to answer. "Does this inherent mutualistic relationship apply to other algae as well?" Zhang Yongyu asked. "Can we boost algal growth by artificially constructing algal-friendly microbial communities? The potential regulation of algae-bacteria interactions may offer a novel way to increase algae-driven marine carbon sequestration." Explore further Investigating the symbiotic relationships that can trigger harmful algal blooms More information: Shailesh Nair et al, Inherent tendency of Synechococcus and heterotrophic bacteria for mutualism on long-term coexistence despite environmental interference, Science Advances (2022). www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abf4792 Journal information: Science Advances Shailesh Nair et al, Inherent tendency of Synechococcus and heterotrophic bacteria for mutualism on long-term coexistence despite environmental interference,(2022). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf4792 Already honoured by almost all other major medicine prizes, Hungarian-born Katalin Kariko could win for her pioneering research. Breast cancer discoveries and mRNA vaccines are seen as possible winners when the Nobel Medicine Prize kicks off a week of winner announcements on Monday, with this year's awards held under the shadow of war in Europe. Established more than 120 years ago before Europe was ravaged by two world wars, the Nobel prizes will celebrate those who have "conferred the greatest benefit on mankind" after a year marked by bloodshed and devastation in Ukraine. The Medicine Prize will be announced around 11:30 am (0930 GMT) in Stockholm on Monday, followed by the awards for physics on Tuesday, chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The Peace Prize, the most highly anticipated of the awards and the only one announced in Oslo, will follow on Friday, with the Economics Prize wrapping things up on October 10. For medicine, one woman's name keeps popping up among prize watchers: US geneticist Mary-Claire King, who in 1990 discovered the BRCA1 gene responsible for a hereditary form of breast cancer. She could be honoured together with oncologists Dennis Slamon of the United States and Germany's Axel Ullrich for their research, which led to the development of the breast cancer drug Herceptin. However, if the jury were to break with its tradition of honouring decades-old research, another woman could be well placed for her role in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Male domination Already honoured by almost all other major medicine prizes, Hungarian-born Katalin Kariko could win for her pioneering research which led directly to the first mRNA vaccines to fight COVID-19, made by Pfizer and Moderna. "There's not only the direct benefit that it gave us to fight the pandemic, it's also the first in a series of very promising applications using this technology," Nobel watcher Ulrika Bjorksten, the head of Swedish public radio's science service, told AFP. Kariko could be honoured together with her collaborator Drew Weissman of the United States and Pieter Cullis of Canada. Last year, the prize went to US researchers David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for their discoveries on human receptors for temperature and touch. David Pendlebury, who heads the closely watched Clarivate analytics group which lists dozens of possible winners for the Nobel science prizes, said his money was on King and Slamon this year. But he also mentioned Hong Kong molecular biologist Yuk Ming Dennis Lo, who pioneered the development of non-invasive prenatal testing. He also developed a new method of detecting cancer early using just a few drops of blood, dubbed liquid biopsies. With a simple blood draw "you can determine all kinds of possible problems and diseases", Pendlebury said. Male researchers based in the United States have overwhelmingly dominated the Nobel science prizes through the years. The various prize committees have insisted they are trying to recognise women's achievements, but say many of the top discoveries were made decades ago when fewer women were involved in high-level research. Last year, 12 men and one woman won Nobel Prizes, with all of the science nods going to men. Anti-Putin prizes? For the Literature Prize on Thursday, literary critics told AFP they thought the Swedish Academy may go for a more mainstream author this year, after selecting lesser-known writers the past two years. Last year, Tanzanian author Abdulrazak Gurnah won, while US poet Louise Gluck was crowned in 2020. US novelist Joyce Carol Oates, France's Annie Ernaux and Maryse Conde, Russia's Lyudmila Ulitskaya and Canada's Margaret Atwood have all been cited as potential laureates if the committee has its eyes on a woman. Online betting sites however have France's Michel Houellebecq as the favourite, ahead of British author Salman Rushdie, who was the victim of an attempted murder attack in August. But it is the Peace Prize that is expected to hold special significance this year. After Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov won the prize last year together with his Philippine colleague Maria Ressa in the name of freedom of expression, will the Norwegian Nobel Committee award another anti-Putin prize after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine? Not since World War II has a conflict raged between two countries so close to Oslo. The International Criminal Court, tasked with investigating war crimes in Ukraine, and the International Court of Justiceboth based in The Haguehave been mentioned as possible laureates this year. So have jailed Russian dissident Alexei Navalny and Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya. If the committee were to focus on the climate crisis, experts tipped Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, possibly together with British environmentalist David Attenborough or other activists such as Sudan's Nisreen Elsaim and Ghana's Chibeze Ezekiel. Explore further Nobel panel to announce winner of medicine prize 2022 AFP Credit: A3pfamily, Shutterstock Our bodies are home to trillions of invisible microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and miniscule animals. These live on our skin, in our mouths, even within our cells, where they may contribute in numerous ways to our health and wellness. For example in our gut, bacteria help to break down potential toxic food compounds, and synthesize vitamins that we need. "This is the microbiome," explains Marie Skodowska-Curie fellow Tania Galindo from ETH-Zurich in Switzerland. She adds that she has just arrived from a conference in Vienna, "where speakers often pointed out that there are more microbial cells in our body than human cells." But humans are not unique in being an ecosystem unto themselves. Since the very beginning of agriculture, farmers have understood that disease could spread from leaves or fruits of one plant to others. Evidently, some infectious force has been at play, impacting their harvests and livelihoods. To understand more about plant microbiomes, scientists employed the same methods used in human clinical microbiology, isolating and characterizing infectious organisms to identify and diagnose diseases affecting plants. How the plant microbiome can boost agriculture These days, the field of phytopathologythe study of plant diseaseis interested in the beneficial as well as negative aspects of microbes. The ROOTPHENOBIOME project that Galindo worked on is helping us understand how the many microbe species that live on, around and in plantstheir microbiomecan help us achieve more sustainable agriculture. "We know that there are groups of microbes in the soil and on the leaves that protect plants from disease and help them to acquire more resources," she explains. For example, bacterial groups in the soil such as actinomycetes help to decompose organic dead matter, enabling valuable nutrients to be taken up by plants. "Another important group of microbes are the fungi called mycorrhiza," continues Galindo. "These soil-borne fungi have a symbiotic relationship with the roots of many plants. They absorb and transfer nutrients from places in the soil that plant roots cannot reach, and displace pathogens." Research shows that plants with these fungi present in their microbiome tend to be healthier. Scientists have also discovered nitrogen-fixing bacteria that live on and around the root, helping plants to fix more of this vital nutrient from the air. Nitrogen is part of the chlorophyll molecule, which gives plants their green color. You can often identify plants lacking in nitrogen by their yellowing leaves. Research such as this, Galindo believes, can help to revolutionize agriculture. Consumer understanding and acceptance of gut health, for example, has led to huge demand for probiotic yogurts and other products that work in harmony with our microbiome. Why not apply this principle to crops? "Selecting and managing microbes that suit specific plant species could help us to reduce the amount of chemicals and pesticides we are currently using," says Galindo. "This is really important, because at present, we are damaging the environment." Galindo points out that farmers typically apply 150% of the nitrogen crops need because much of it will run off into waterways or be broken down by microbes and released as greenhouse gases before the plants can absorb it. Deploying microbes that help plants to fix nitrogen could lead to significantly reduced amounts of fertilizer being spread on a field. "If we understand how microbes work, then we can use these microbes to complement or replace chemicals," she concludes. At the turn of the 20th century, museums started funding excavations to unearth dinosaur bones. Credit: Museum Wales Dinosaurs are in the news these days, but it's not just for groundbreaking discoveries. More and more paleontologists are ringing alarm bells about high-profile auctions in which dinosaur fossils sell for outrageous sums. The most recent example involves a 77 million-year-old Gorgosaurus skeleton that Sotheby's sold for more than US$6 million in August 2022. But that's not even close to the most anyone ever paid for a dinosaur. In May 2022, Christie's sold a Deinonychus skeleton for $12.4 million. And a couple of months before that, Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism paid an eye-popping $31.8 million for Stan, a remarkably complete T. rex from South Dakota's Hell Creek Formation that's going to be the centerpiece of the Persian Gulf city's new natural history museum. Some scientists are so dismayed they are speaking out. University of Edinburgh paleontologist Steve Brusatte told the Daily Mail that auction houses turn valuable specimens into "little more than toys for the rich." Thomas Carr from Carthage College in Wisconsin was even more forthright, saying, "Greed for money is what drives these auctions." He also complained that wealthy elitesincluding actors Nicholas Cage and Leonardo DiCaprioare competing to acquire the best specimens in a game of juvenile one-upmanship, describing them as "thieves of time." Most commenters trace the booming market for dinosaurs back to Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found. After the FBI confiscated it from the same group of fossil hunters who found Stan, the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago acquired itwith financial backing from Disney and McDonald'sfor over $8 million in 1997. But as I document in my recent book, "Assembling the Dinosaur," the commercial specimen trade is as old as the science of paleontology itself. And its history shows the debate over whether dinosaurs ought to be bought and sold involves much deeper questions about the long-standing but hotly contested relationship between science and capitalism. Two sides of the debate Paleontologists have good reason to oppose the commercial sale of valuable fossils. Science is fundamentally a community enterprise, and if specimens aren't available for public examination, paleontologists have no way to assess whether new findings are true. What if a particularly outlandish theory is based on a fraudulent specimen? This happens more often than you'd think. In the late 1990s a private collector purchased what appeared to be a feathered dinosaur at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. National Geographic subsequently reported on it to great fanfare, claiming it was a "missing link" between dinosaurs and modern birds. When scientists grew suspicious, they found that the so-called "Archaeoraptor" fossil combined pieces of several distinct specimens to make a chimerical creature that never existed. But commercial fossil hunters make a compelling point, too. Most fossils first come to light through the natural process of erosion. Eventually, however, erosion also destroys the specimen itselfand there simply aren't enough scientists to find every fossil before it is lost. Hence, the argument goes, commercial collectors should be celebrated for saving specimens by digging them up. Wealthy philanthropists distance themselves Both sides of the argument make a compelling point. But as the fiasco around "Archaeoraptor" reveals, it's worth asking whether financial incentives erode trust. Dinosaurs first came to the attention of geologists during the 19th century. In fact, these gigantic lizards did not acquire their name until the comparative anatomist Richard Owen invented the biological category "Dinosauria" in 1842. At that time, scientists did not treat dinosaurs any differently from other valuables that could be dug out of the ground, such as gold, silver and coal. Museums purchased most of their fossils from commercial collectors, often using funds donated by wealthy industrialists like Andrew Carnegie, who even had a dinosaur named after him: Diplodocus carnegii. That started to change at the very end of the 19th century, when there was a concerted effort to decommodify dinosaur bones, and museums began to distance themselves from the commercial specimen trade. One impetus came from museums' wealthy benefactors, who sought to demarcate their charitable activities from the unsavory world of commerce. Philanthropists like Carnegie and J.P. Morgan gave money to cultural institutions because they wanted to signal their refined taste, their appreciation for learning and their republican virtuesnot to enter into a business transaction. Moreover, the first Gilded Age resembled the present in that it, too, saw a sharp increase in economic inequality. This led to widespread class conflict, which could be remarkably violent and bloody. Afraid that incendiary labor leaders would bring the industrial economy to its knees, wealthy elites began using public displays of conspicuous generosity to demonstrate that American capitalism could yield public goods in addition to profits. For all these reasons, it was essential for their philanthropic activities to be seen as selfless acts of genuine altruism, utterly divorced from the cutthroat competition of the marketplace. Scientists take control At the same time, paleontologists embraced the language of "pure science" to claim they produced knowledge for its own sakenot financial gain. By arguing that their work was free from the corrupting influence of money, scientists made themselves more trustworthy. Ironically, scientists found they could attract more funds by claiming to be completely uninterested in money, fashioning themselves into ideal recipients for the philanthropic largesse of wealthy elites. But that further necessitated a clear demarcation between the the culture of capitalism and the practice of science, which entailed a reluctance to acquire specimens via purchase. As scientists began shunning the commercial specimen trade, museums set about using the generous donations of wealthy philanthropists to mount increasingly ambitious expeditions that allowed scientists to collect fossils themselves. Dinosaurs in the New Gilded Age But their ability to control the private market for dinosaur bones did not last forever. With the United States in the middle of what some call a New Gilded Age, it has come roaring back. Today, the most spectacular dinosaur fossils often hail from the Jehol formation of northeastern China. And more often than not, they are purchased from local farmers who supplement their incomes by hunting for fossils on the side. As a result, the question of whether commercial incentives erode trust is back with a vengeance. Li Chun, a professor at Beijing's prestigious Institute for Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, estimates that more than 80% of all marine reptiles on display in Chinese museums have been deceptively altered to some degree, often to increase their value. The age-old worry about whether the profit motive threatens to undermine the values of science is real. But it is hardly unique to paleontology. The spectacular implosion of Theranos, a tech startup that secured more than $700 million in venture capital based on false promises of having developed a better way to conduct blood tests, is just just a particularly high-profile example of commercial deceit paired with scientific misconduct. So much scientific research is now being paid for by people who have a commercial stake in the knowledge producedand you can see the ramifications in everything from Exxon's decision to hide its early research on climate change to Moderna's recent move to begin enforcing its patent on the mRNA technology behind the most effective COVID-19 vaccines. Is it any wonder that so many people have lost trust in science? Explore further Gorgosaurus sells for $6.1 mn at New York auction This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This picture from the University of Oxford/Max Planck Institute shows a bone fragment of 'Denisova 11', evidence of interbreeding of a Neanderthal and a Denisovan, found in 2012 by Russian archaeologists in the Altai Mountains of Siberia. Little is known of the mysterious Denisovans. These distant relatives of the Neanderthals roamed eastern and southern Eurasia but left little trace of their time on Earth. "Hominin Denisova" was discovered by Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo, the winner of this year's Nobel prize in medicine. In 2012, Paabo and his team sequenced the DNA of a remarkably well-preserved fragment of bone, 40,000 years old, found four years earlier in the Denisova cave in southern Siberia. The result was astoundingthey had come across an entirely novel hominin, distinct from Neanderthals and even more from Homo sapiens, aka modern humans. The Denisovans shared a common ancestor with the Neanderthals until their populations diverged 380,000 to 470,000 years ago. This was much later than the split between modern humans and Neanderthals/Denisovans, which occurred between 550,000 and 760,000 years ago. In the same cave, paleontologists later discovered the fossil of a young girl who was part Neanderthal, part Denisovan, proving that these two archaic species interbred. But while we know the Neanderthals disappeared around 40,000 years ago, we have little idea as to when our other closest evolutionary relative went extinct. We don't know what the Denisovans looked like either as they left only rare fossilized traces of their time on Earth other than the fragments found in Siberia and a jawbone discovered on the Tibetan Plateau in 2019. The work of Paabo and his team at the Max Planck Institute in Leipzig have nonetheless shed some light on our mysterious ancestor. By comparing DNA sequences, they found a "gene flow" between both Denisovan and Neanderthals, and between Denisovans and modern humans. In other words, before they went extinct, Denisovans also interbred with our species. Up to six percent of Denisovan DNA is still found in present-day humans in Asia-Pacific and southeast AsiaAustralian Aborigines, Melanesians and the Negritos of the Philippinessuggesting our far-distant relative roamed over a vast swathe of east and south Eurasia. Neanderthals, by contrast, lived in western Eurasia. Scientists believe the ancient ancestors of today's Melanesians interbred with Denisovans from southeast Asia, far from the frozen mountains of Siberia and Tibet. Proof that the Denisovans had spread as far as the warm tropics of Asia was lacking until a missing linka child's tooth at least 130,000 years oldwas discovered in a cave in Laos in 2018. One of the biggest remaining mysteries is why modern humans were so successful in their expansion and why the Denisovans and Neanderthals went extinct, after having adapted to a Eurasian environment for several hundred thousand years. Explore further Sweden's Paabo wins medicine Nobel for sequencing Neanderthal DNA 2022 AFP Map of the UTTR, with the planned landing spot for MSR in the red ellipse in the upper left corner. Credit: NASA NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission is inching closer and closer. The overall mission architecture just hit a new milestone when Perseverance collected the first sample that will be sent back. But what happens once that sample actually gets here? NASA and its partner, ESA, are still working on that, but recently they released a fact sheet that covers what will happen during the first stage of that processreturning to the ground. That return will take place in the middle of the desert in the western U.S., in an area called the Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR). While this may seem like an obscure place to land such an important mission, it does have several things going for it. First, it's in the continental U.S. That gives it relatively easy access to advanced laboratory equipment available throughout the country. NASA is the most likely candidate to be able to marshal all the resources necessary to quarantine the sample to keep it separate from the wider Earth environment, which would help eliminate the (admittedly unlikely) event of a Martian superbug getting on the loose. Secure containment is one of the reasons the agency is foregoing a water landing. Doing so would lessen the impact on the samples, but it also would have a slight chance that the capsule could sink into the ocean and the tiny bits of Mars within it could be lost to the sea. Avoiding that would be nice, so it's better to land on land. But that land has to be isolated, another advantage of the UTTR. Not only is it not near any roads, but it is also already restricted air space, as it is the site of plenty of rocket and plane testing. Being isolated also means that the capsule is less likely to impact anything important if something goes wrong with the trajectory. A test capsule from NASA also makes a nice dent in the landscape. Credit: NASA That will be particularly important given the method of landing selected for the MSR capsule. It's going to fall to the ground using only aero-brakingno parachute required. Therefore, it will be going significantly faster than the typical parachute-assisted capsule returns. But, according to NASA's calculations, the samples and their containers should survive the impact. Not using a parachute will massively simplify the capsule's design and lessen its weight, both of which are essential factors considering the capsule itself has to return from Mars. Even so, the impact itself is going to make a nice dent in the landscape. NASA has already begun performing testing using a mock-up of the MSR's sample return capsule. Doing so has created a series of 1.3-meter-wide craters in the landscape and ejected material 15 meters away from the crater. Assuming the samples and capsule do survive, the next step would be safely transporting them to a laboratory where they can be properly studied. That is, after all, the whole purpose of the Mars Sample Return mission. So far, that part of the program hasn't been defined yet, but knowing that the samples will end up in the middle of the Utah desert is at least a place to start. JERUSALEM, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The European Union and Israel held on Monday in Brussels their first high-level talks since 2012, according to a statement issued on behalf of Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid. "The EU is Israel's main trading partner," said Lapid, who took part in the EU-Israel Association Council dialogue forum via video conference, adding Israel's new government has set the improvement of the political and economic ties with the EU as one of its main goals since its formation in June last year. The forum "will allow us to advance economic ties between Israel and the EU, and strengthen our fight to lower the cost of living, in both Israel and Europe," he noted. Meanwhile, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, who heads the European side of the talks, welcomed Lapid's support for a two-state solution with the Palestinians in his address to the UN General Assembly in September, Israel's Ynet news site reported. The EU wishes to see the beginning of a political process that can lead to the end of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and "a comprehensive regional peace," Borrell said. The convening of the Association Council, the highest forum steering Israel-EU relations in science, economy, energy, environment and other issues, "will enable Israel to continue developing its relations with the EU for the benefit of the citizens of Israel," the Israeli Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Sunday. It is the 12th meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council, after the last one in July 2012. The dialogue forum had been frozen for a decade amid Israel's continuous expansion of the settlement in the occupied West Bank despite the EU opposition. Mauna Kea Observatory, Hawaii, United States. Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Who should manage public land that is sacred to Native Americans? That is the question that the United States government and some states hope recent policy changes will address by giving Indigenous people greater input into managing such land. Co-management, as the policy is called, might alleviate the friction that emerges when sacred landscapes are managed without Native American input. Mauna Kea, a 13,802-foot dormant volcano on the island of Hawaii, is one example. The mountain is managed as public land by the state of Hawaii. Native Hawaiians have protested the state's management of Mauna Kea for decades, saying Hawaii has allowed too many research buildings on their sacred mountain, which disrupts their ability to practice their religion. This kind of conflict is not unique to Hawaii. Indigenous peoples have lived in what is now the United States for thousands of years and developed intimate relationships with the lands they call home. For years, Native people across the country have demanded more input into how the government manages areas they consider sacred. Now, the government may finally be listening. 'We worship there' As a Native American scholar of religion and the environment, I am interested in Indigenous peoples' relationship to the natural world and their struggle to protect their sacred landscapes. Native Hawaiians believe that Mauna Kea is the first creation of the Earth Mother, Papahanaumoku, and the Sky Father, Wakea. The mountain is an important part of their origin narrative. For astronomers, the mountain has another significance. They believe the summit of Mauna Kea has the clearest skies for conducting research. For the past 50 years, the state of Hawaii has leased the summit of the mountain to dozens of research institutions. Together, they have built 13 telescopes and numerous buildings on Mauna Kea. For years Native Hawaiian leaders have argued that the state ignored their concerns over such construction. When Mauna Kea was selected in 2009 as the preferred site for the Thirty Meter Telescope, a new class of extremely large telescope, Native Hawaiians protested to stop the project. Native Hawaiians, like those from other Indigenous religious traditions, believe that sacred areas should be left alone without roads or buildings because they are the homes of the divine. "We worship there, the iwis of our kupuna [bones of our elders] are buried there," Mililani Trask, the Hawaii island's trustee for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, said at a public meeting regarding an environmental impact statement of Mauna Kea with the National Science Foundation on Aug. 9, 2022. "No," she continued, "you will not build here." The state of Hawaii is hoping to address this ongoing conflict with the creation of a new eight-person commission that includes three Native Hawaiian leaders to manage Mauna Kea. "I believe we can find a way for science and culture to coexist on Mauna Kea in a mutually beneficial way," Hawaiian Gov. David Ige said on Sept. 12, 2022, when he announced the new commission. What makes land sacred? Native American religions, similar to other religions, view areas as sacred because they are the homes of gods or places that are sanctified by a god. Sacred places may be physically small or large areas, they may be built or natural areas, such as churches and shrines, or mountains and rivers. Religious studies scholars such as Tisa Wenger have argued that religious freedom for Native Americans has been difficult because "the U.S. government has often acted as if Indian traditions were somehow not truly religious and therefore not eligible for the constitutional protections of the First Amendment." In one dispute in the 1980s, the U.S. Forest Service wanted to construct a road across a sacred mountain in Northern California. A consortium of tribes fought back, and the case ended in the Supreme Court; the tribes lost. Following that decision, in 1996, President Bill Clinton created a definition of Native American sacred land as a "specific, discrete, narrowly delineated location on Federal land." This language intentionally excludes large areas such as mountains or open landscapes in favor of smaller sites. That does not fully represent the variety of places that Native peoples consider sacred, say religious studies scholars, leading to inevitable clashes over the meaning and uses of such lands. Co-management is one small step On Sept. 13, 2022, Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland released new federal guidelines to help address these long-standing conflicts. This new policy, which focuses on publicly managed areas that Native Americans view as sacred or culturally important, will allow some tribes to share management responsibilities with federal agencies. "By acknowledging and empowering Tribes as partners in co-stewardship of our country's lands and waters, every American will benefit from strengthened management of our federal land and resources," Haaland said. In a related effort, Congress on Sept. 14 held hearings on two new bills to address this same issue. If they pass, their backers hope they will facilitate the inclusion of "tribal management of public lands" and strengthen the "protection of sacred and cultural sites." Such changes are "a small step, but an important one, in giving Tribal nations the respect and authority they deserve," said Rep. Raul M. Grijalva, a Democrat from Arizona. But, he added of the federal government's new desire to share land management with tribes, "There is no deed that can undo or fully compensate for this country's historical neglect and desecration of Indigenous Peoples' culture and places that are sacred to them." Explore further Hawaii seeks end to strife over astronomy on sacred mountain This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. A 3D representation of the human gut microbiome where CPE and diverse bacteria reside. Credit: A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore Scientists from A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS) have discovered how Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE)a multi-drug-resistant bacteriahides among gut bacterial communities in asymptomatic human carriers. The study was published in Nature Microbiology. Long-term colonization of the gut microbiome by CPE, a family of bacteria resistant to most antibiotics, is a growing area of public health concern as it can lead to community transmission and life-threatening CPE infections. Individuals may experience CPE bacteria colonization (e.g. E. coli or K. pneumoniae) through contact with contaminated surfaces or consumption of contaminated foods; prolonged consumption of antibiotics can also be a risk factor for colonization. Some individuals can develop CPE infections, and treatment often involves using several antibiotics of "last resort". In some severe cases, treatment failures lead to a high mortality rate (up to 50%) in hospitalized patients. One place where scientists believe CPE hides is in the human gut, colonizing it asymptomatically and masked by the trillions of good bacteria there, waiting for the opportunity to cause infections or transmit to other individuals. To study the effects of CPE colonization, and subsequent decolonisation on the gut microbiome, the team collaborated with Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) to examine the gut microbiome of CPE-positive subjects and their family members for one year. They tracked the gut bacteria by analyzing their metagenomic DNA signatures and discovered that CPE is not completely silent in the gut. The team found that CPE colonization leaves tell-tale marks by depleting key bacteria whose functions are linked to maintaining gut health by keeping inflammation in check. The team also discovered that CPE colonization was dynamic, and could potentially lead to the exchange of genetic elements that confer antibiotic resistance across bacterial species. By analyzing the whole genome sequences of CPE strains, they found mutations in key functional genes, and differences in antibiotic resistance profiles between highly similar Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) strains that could explain why CPE is able to successfully hide in the gut. Rebalancing gut bacteria, particularly in terms of key species that modulate gut inflammation could provide an avenue for promoting CPE decolonisation, and preventing onward transmission of antibiotic resistance. Dr. Niranjan Nagarajan, Group Leader of the Laboratory of Metagenomic Technologies and Microbial Systems and Associate Director of Genome Architecture at GIS, as well as corresponding author of the study, says that "antimicrobial resistance is a major public health challenge with a large impact on health care systems in Singapore. Our study sheds light on an important phenomenon that is of concern to infectious disease clinicians around the world." "CPE are particularly worrisome in terms of antimicrobial resistance because they carry the resistance genes on mobile elements that can be exchanged between bacteria, thus rapidly creating superbugs out of otherwise harmless bacteria. They are like deadly assassins hiding in plain sight among gut bacteria. Yet, their presence does not go unnoticed by the gut bacterial crowd, and perhaps the key to eliminating them is to harness the power of the crowd." Dr. Jonathan Teo Jin Yuan, Research Fellow at the Laboratory of Metagenomic Technologies and Microbial Systems in GIS, and joint first author of the study, says that "prior studies on CPE focused largely on the epidemiology and molecular aspects of the infection, but the natural history of CPE gut colonization has remained unexplored. Our study was unique as it followed up with CPE-colonized patients and their family members for a year, allowing us to track changes in their gut bacterial communities." "We used cutting-edge metagenomic technologies to deeply probe the genetics of their gut bacteria, track the changes at the whole-genome level, and subsequently, analyzed how their gut bacterial communities evolved in relation to colonization by CPE." Prof Patrick Tan, Executive Director of GIS, says that "antimicrobial resistance is often spoken of as the next pandemic threat that could overwhelm health care systems worldwide. Among the organisms of concern, CPE are close to the top of the list because of their ability to transmit antibiotics resistance and colonize the human gut, even in the absence of overt infection and antibiotic usage." "By studying CPE gut colonization using advanced genomic tools, we were able to discover key insights that could help us reduce gut colonization, prevent the spread of these pathogens, and hence, safeguard our community and health care systems." Explore further Bacterial viruses: Faithful allies against antibiotic resistance More information: Jonathan T. L. Kang et al, Long-term ecological and evolutionary dynamics in the gut microbiomes of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonized subjects, Nature Microbiology (2022). Journal information: Nature Microbiology Jonathan T. L. Kang et al, Long-term ecological and evolutionary dynamics in the gut microbiomes of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonized subjects,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01221-w Graphical overview of the pipeline starting with the RNA Virus MetaTranscriptomes (RVMT) database to uncover the expansion in RNA virus diversity. Credit: Simon Roux A zoo once offered a coloring book featuring polar bears in winter scenes that came with crayons in various shades of white. To researchers searching for sequences of RNA viruses in large data sets, their work may be akin to finding a single snowflake on a colored-in page of that book. Published online September 28, 2022, in Cell, a team led by researchers at Tel Aviv University in Israel, the National Center for Biotechnology Information, and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute (JGI), a DOE Office of Science User Facility located at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) describe a computational pipeline that can specifically scan for those snowflakes, or RNA virus sequences. Using this workflow, the team combed through more than 5,000 data sets of RNA sequences (metatranscriptomes) generated from diverse environmental samples around the world, resulting in a five-fold increase of RNA virus diversity. "The world of viruses around us is vast, and we now have the means to explore it," said Eugene Koonin, a senior investigator at the NCBI and one of the senior authors on the paper, of the uncovered viral diversity. "Although the technical challenges of data analysis at this scale are formidable." Computational sieves to filter sequences There are more microbes on the planet than particles in a handful of dirt, and viruses vastly outnumber the microbes. Advances in sequencing technologies and computational tools have uncovered a diversity of viruses that infect not just crops, animals and humans, but also microbes whose presence or absence can impact the planet's nutrient cycles. While most organism's genetic information is encoded in DNA, with RNA delivering the instructions inside DNA to the cell, RNA viruses store their genetic information in RNA without a DNA stage. "I would argue RNA viruses globally are even less known than DNA viruses," said Simon Roux, a JGI scientist and one of the project co-leads. "But same as DNA viruses, RNA viruses infect microbes all across the world and lead to cell death and/or profound changes in the cell physiology during infection." While all RNA viruses have a gene that encodes for an enzyme called RNS-directed RNA Polymerase (RdRP), necessary for replicating the RNA genome replication, detecting it has been a challenge. Finding the RNA virus snowflakes in the snowstorm of genomic data involved developing special computational sieves to filter out sequences that were unlikely to contain the RdRP sequence. The work resulted from a three-way collaboration that began in 2019, recalled Uri Neri of Tel Aviv University, one of the project co-leads and first author of the study. Members of the Tel Aviv and NCBI teams, who were already working on mining prokaryotic viruses together, learned from JGI's Nikos Kyrpides that his Microbiome Data Science group was also working on RNA virus mining. After a couple of virtual meetings of the three teams it was clear that a larger collaborative effort would be far more effective in achieving higher quality results compared to smaller individual efforts. This is also the type of synergistic and collaborative community spirit that the JGI advocates for and actively promotes. The team used all the publicly available metatranscriptome datasets from the JGI's Integrated Microbial Genomes & Microbiomes (IMG/M) system. "We then looked into many more samples and refined our methodology," Neri said. "Our team grew and so did the scope of the project." To this end, Kyrpides emphasized, the contributions of the numerous JGI science users in collecting and submitting their microbiome samples for sequencing at the JGI cannot be overstated. Their cooperation and support, he said, and in several cases, their permission to use yet unpublished sequence data, was absolutely critical for the success of this effort and so was the acknowledgement of their contribution. Both Roux and Koonin noted that the plethora of RNA virus sequences uncovered "significantly changes the global view of virus diversity," though not at the higher-level classifications of virus groups (phyla.) The new sequences are filling in some gaps on existing virus groups while also adding new branches. Additionally, RNA viruses do not appear to be evenly distributed around the world. One expanded group is of viruses associated with bacteria; until now, most of the known RNA viruses have been associated with eukaryotes. Along with the expansion of bacteria-associated RNA viruses is the finding that "a few bacteria use CRISPR to defend against RNA," Roux noted, "although it's unclear why this is so rarely detected." Developing approaches for reconciling 'real' Big Data For the team, the computational work that led to the uncovered abundance of RNA viruses is just the beginning. "I often say that just identifying a sequence as viral is not even half the story." Neri said. "We invested a lot of our efforts into the post-discovery analysesas best we could, we tried to describe the protein domains every virus carries, and who is their likely host. We've made all of that information fully free and openly available to the broader scientific community." Uri Gophna from Tel Aviv University, and Koonin both noted that other research in parallel has reported similar "dramatic expansions" of the global RNA virome. "We now need to compare and reconcile the findings, coming up with a single, non-redundant dataset," said Koonin. "Hopefully, relatively soon we will be able to estimate the actual size of the RNA virome However, this is now real Big Data, we are dealing with billions of sequences, and soon, with trillions. The development of efficient, automated approaches to analyze and classify sequence data at this scale is essential." Explore further An automated tool for assessing virus data quality More information: Uri Neri et al, Expansion of the global RNA virome reveals diverse clades of bacteriophages, Cell (2022). Journal information: Cell Uri Neri et al, Expansion of the global RNA virome reveals diverse clades of bacteriophages,(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.08.023 The central dogma of molecular biology showing what is happening in this study. Credit: Julian Chen For the very first time, a study led by Julian Chen and his group in Arizona State University's School of Molecular Sciences and the Biodesign Institute's Center for the Mechanism of Evolution, has discovered an unprecedented pathway producing telomerase RNA from a protein-coding messenger RNA (mRNA). The central dogma of molecular biology specifies the order in which genetic information is transferred from DNA to make proteins. Messenger RNA molecules carry the genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus of the cell to the cytoplasm where the proteins are made. Messenger RNA acts as the messenger to build proteins. "Actually, there are many RNAs (ribonucleic acids) that are not used to make proteins," explained Chen. "About 70 percent of the human genome is used to make noncoding RNAs that don't code for protein sequences but have other uses." Telomerase RNA is one of the noncoding RNAs that assembles along with telomerase proteins to form the enzyme telomerase. Telomerase is crucial for cellular immortality in cancer and stem cells. In this study, Chen's group shows that a fungal telomerase RNA is processed from a protein-coding mRNA, instead of being synthesized independently. "Our finding from this paper is paradigm-shifting. Most RNA molecules are synthesized independently and here we uncovered a dual function mRNA that can be used to produce a protein or to make a noncoding telomerase RNA, which is really unique," said Chen. "We will need to do a lot more research to understand the underlying mechanism of such an unusual RNA biogenesis pathway." Basic research on the metabolism and regulation of mRNA has led to important medical applications. For example, several COVID-19 vaccines use messenger RNA as a means to produce viral spike proteins. In these vaccines, the mRNA molecules are eventually degraded and then absorbed by our bodies. This new approach has advantages over DNA vaccines which run the potential risk of being deleteriously and permanently incorporated into our DNA. The discovery of dual-function mRNA biogenesis in this work might lead to innovative ways of making future mRNA vaccines. In this study Chen's group discovered the unexpected mRNA-derived telomerase RNA in the model fungal organism Ustilago maydis or corn smut. Corn smut, also called Mexican truffle, is edible and adds a delicious umami effect to many dishes, for example tamales and tacos. The study of RNA and telomere biology in corn smut may provide opportunities for finding novel mechanisms for mRNA metabolism and telomerase biogenesis. Why study telomerase RNA? The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded in 2009 "for the discovery of how chromosomes are protected by telomeres and the enzyme telomerase." Telomerase was first isolated from a unicellular organism living in pond scum. As it later turned out, telomerase exists in almost all eukaryotic organisms, including humans, and plays a crucial role in aging and cancer. Scientists have been scrambling to discover ways to utilize telomerase to make human cells immortal. Typical human cells are mortal and cannot forever renew themselves. As demonstrated by Leonard Hayflick a half-century ago, human cells have a limited replicative life span, with older cells reaching this limit sooner than younger cells. This "Hayflick limit" of cellular life span is directly related to the number of unique DNA repeats found at the ends of the genetic material-bearing chromosomes. These DNA repeats are part of the protective capping structures, termed "telomeres," which safeguard the ends of chromosomes from unwanted and unwarranted DNA rearrangements that destabilize the genome. Each time the cell divides, the telomeric DNA shrinks and will eventually fail to secure the chromosome ends. This continuous reduction of telomere length functions as a "molecular clock" that counts down to the end of cell growth. The diminished ability for cells to grow is strongly associated with the aging process, with the reduced cell population directly contributing to weakness, illness and organ failure. Counteracting the telomere shrinking process is telomerase, the enzyme that uniquely holds the key to delaying or even reversing the cellular aging process. Telomerase offsets cellular aging by lengthening the telomeres, adding back lost DNA repeats to add time onto the molecular clock countdown, effectively extending the life span of the cell. Telomerase lengthens telomeres by repeatedly synthesizing very short DNA repeats of six nucleotidesthe building blocks of DNAwith the sequence "GGTTAG" onto the chromosome ends from a template located within the RNA component of the enzyme itself. The gradual shrinking of telomeres negatively affects the replicative capacity of human stem cells, the cells that restore damaged tissues and/or replenish aging organs in our bodies. The activity of telomerase in adult stem cells merely slows down the countdown of the molecular clock and does not completely immortalize these cells. Therefore, adult stem cells become exhausted in aged individuals due to telomere length shortening which results in increased healing times and organ tissue degradation from inadequate cell populations. Tapping the full potential of telomerase Understanding the regulation and limitation of the telomerase enzyme holds the promise of reversing telomere shortening and cellular aging with the potential to extend human life span and improve wellness of elderly individuals. Human diseases that include dyskeratosis congenita, aplastic anemia and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis have been genetically linked to mutations that negatively affect telomerase activity and/or accelerate the loss of telomere length. This accelerated telomere shortening closely resembles premature aging with increased organ deterioration and a shortened patient life span caused by critically insufficient stem cell populations. Increasing telomerase activity is seemingly the most promising means of treating these genetic diseases. While increased telomerase activity could bring youth to aging cells and cure premature aging-like diseases, too much of a good thing can be damaging for the individual. Just as youthful stem cells use telomerase to offset telomere length loss, cancer cells employ telomerase to maintain their aberrant and destructive growth. Augmenting and regulating telomerase function will have to be performed with precision, walking a narrow line between cell rejuvenation and a heightened risk for cancer development. Distinct from human stem cells, somatic cells constitute the vast majority of the cells in the human body and lack telomerase activity. The telomerase deficiency of human somatic cells reduces the risk of cancer development, as telomerase fuels uncontrolled cancer cell growth. Therefore, drugs that increase telomerase activity indiscriminately in all cell types are not desired. Small molecule drugs can be screened or designed to increase telomerase activity exclusively within stem cells for disease treatment as well as antiaging therapies without increasing the risk of cancer. The study of telomerase RNA biogenesis in corn smut may unveil new mechanisms for telomerase regulation and offer new directions on how to modulate or engineer human telomerase for innovations in developing antiaging and anticancer therapeutics. This study, "Biogenesis of telomerase RNA from a protein-coding mRNA precursor," was just published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The ASU team includes first authors postdoc Dhenugen Logeswaran and former research assistant professor Yang Li, doctoral student Khadiza Akhter, former postdoc Joshua Podlevsky (currently at Sandia National Labs, Albuquerque, New Mexico) and two undergraduate students Tamara Olson and Katherine Fosberg. Chen also commented on the caliber of the ASU undergraduate students, Tamara Olson and Katherine Fosberg, who were working in his lab for over a year. "They spent a lot of time in the lab and were fully involved in our research." Explore further What lobsters can teach us about immortality Credit: National Science Foundation / NOIRLab NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) spacecraft intentionally crashed into Dimorphos, the asteroid moonlet in the double-asteroid system of Didymos, on Monday, 26 September 2022. This was the first planetary defense test in which an impact of a spacecraft attempted to modify the orbit of an asteroid. Two days after DART's impact, astronomers Teddy Kareta (Lowell Observatory) and Matthew Knight (US Naval Academy) used the 4.1-meter Southern Astrophysical Research (SOAR) Telescope at NSF's NOIRLab's Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory in Chile to capture the vast plume of dust and debris blasted from the asteroid's surface. In this new image, the dust trailthe ejecta that has been pushed away by the sun's radiation pressure, not unlike the tail of a cometcan be seen stretching from the center to the right-hand edge of the field of view, which at SOAR is about 3.1 arcminutes using the Goodman High Throughput Spectrograph. At Didymos's distance from Earth at the time of the observation, that would equate to at least 10,000 kilometers (6,000 miles) from the point of impact. "It is amazing how clearly we were able to capture the structure and extent of the aftermath in the days following the impact," said Kareta. "Now begins the next phase of work for the DART team as they analyze their data and observations by our team and other observers around the world who shared in studying this exciting event," said Knight. We plan to use SOAR to monitor the ejecta in the coming weeks and months. The combination of SOAR and AEON is just what we need for efficient follow-up of evolving events like this one." These observations will allow scientists to gain knowledge about the nature of the surface of Dimorphos, how much material was ejected by the collision, how fast it was ejected, and the distribution of particle sizes in the expanding dust cloudfor example, whether the impact caused the moonlet to throw off big chunks of material or mostly fine dust. Analyzing this information will help scientists protect Earth and its inhabitants by better understanding the amount and nature of the ejecta resulting from an impact, and how that might modify an asteroid's orbit. SOAR's observations demonstrate the capabilities of AURA facilities in planetary-defense planning and initiatives. In the future, Vera C. Rubin Observatory, currently under construction in Chile, will conduct a census of the solar system to search for potentially hazardous objects. Didymos was discovered in 1996 with the UArizona 0.9-meter Spacewatch Telescope located at Kitt Peak National Observatory, a program of NSF's NOIRLab. Explore further 'Incredible': Astronomers hail first images of asteroid impact Nobel winner Svante Paabo's research gave rise to a new scientific discipline called paleogenomics. Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo, who sequenced the genome of the Neanderthal and discovered the previously unknown hominin Denisova, on Monday won the Nobel Medicine Prize. Paabo's research gave rise to an entirely new scientific discipline called paleogenomics, and has "generated new understanding of our evolutionary history", the Nobel committee said. "By revealing genetic differences that distinguish all living humans from extinct hominins, his discoveries provide the basis for exploring what makes us uniquely human," it said in a statement. Paabothe founder and director of the department of genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzigfound that gene transfer had occurred from these now extinct hominins to Homo sapiens following the migration out of Africa around 70,000 years ago. "This ancient flow of genes to present-day humans has physiological relevance today, for example affecting how our immune system reacts to infections," the jury said. One such example is that COVID-19 patients with a snippet of Neanderthal DNA run a higher risk of severe complications from the disease, Paabo found in a 2020 study. Paabo told reporters he was surprised when the committee called to tell him he had won. "At first I thought this is probably an elaborate prank done by people in my (research) group. But then it sounded a little bit too serious to me so I sort of accepted the fact", he said. Paabo, 67, takes home the award sum of 10 million kronor ($901,500). He is the son of Sune Bergstrom, a Swede who won the 1982 Nobel Medicine Prize for discovering prostaglandinsbiochemical compounds that influence blood pressure, body temperature, allergic reactions and other physiological phenomena. In his 2014 memoir "Neanderthal Man: In Search of Lost Genomes", Paabo wrote that he was conceived as a result of a secret extra-marital affair. He later told The Guardian outlet that Bergstrom's "official" family knew nothing of his or his mother's existence, the Estonian chemist Karin Paabo, until 2005 after Bergstrom's death. Paabo also wrote in his memoir that he "had always thought of myself as gay" until he met the woman who would become his wife, primatologist Linda Vigilant, who also works at the Max Planck Institute. He now identifies as bisexual. Achieved 'the seemingly impossible' Homo sapiens are known to have first appeared in Africa around 300,000 years ago. Our closest known relatives, Neanderthals, developed outside Africa and populated Europe and Western Asia from around 400,000 to 30,000 years ago, when they became extinct. That means that about 70,000 years ago, groups of Homo sapiens and Neanderthals coexisted in large parts of Eurasia for tens of thousands of years. Humans, neanderthals, Denisovan and mystery hominins. "The last 40,000 years is quite unique in human history in that we are the only form of humans around. Until that time there were almost always other types of humans that existed", Paabo told the Nobel website. In order to study the relationship between present-day humans and extinct Neanderthals, DNA needed to be sequenced from archaic specimens with only trace amounts of DNA left after thousands of years. In 1990, Paabo managed to sequence a bit of mitochondrial DNA from a 40,000-year-old piece of bone. "For the first time, we had access to a sequence from an extinct relative", the Nobel jury said. Comparisons with contemporary humans and chimpanzees showed that Neanderthals were genetically distinct. Paabo then "accomplished the seemingly impossible", the committee said, when he published the first Neanderthal genome sequence in 2010. It showed that the most recent common ancestor of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens lived around 800,000 years ago. Paabo and his team were able to show that DNA sequences from Neanderthals were more similar to those from contemporary humans originating from Europe or Asia than those from Africa. "This means that Neanderthals and Homo sapiens interbred during their millennia of coexistence," the Nobel jury said. In modern day humans with European or Asian descent, around one to four percent of the genome originates from Neanderthals. New addition to family tree In 2008, Paabo and his team went on to sequence a 40,000-year-old bone fragment found in the Denisova cave in southern Siberia. It contained exceptionally well-preserved DNA. "The results caused a sensationthe DNA sequence was unique when compared to all known sequences from Neanderthals and present-day humans," the Nobel jury said. Paabo had discovered a previously unknown hominin, given the name Denisova. Comparisons showed the gene flow had also occurred between Denisovans and Homo sapiens. In the same cave, palaeontologists later discovered the fossil of a young girl who was part Neanderthal, part Denisovan, proving the two species interbred. Paabo's research proved that when Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa, at least two extinct hominin populations inhabited EurasiaNeanderthals in western Eurasia, and Denisovans in the eastern parts. Explore further Nobel panel to announce winner of medicine prize 2022 AFP Tropical deforestation. Credit: Amazonia Real from Manaus AM, Brasil, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Tropical deforestation causes widespread degradation of biodiversity and carbon stocks. Researchers from the German Center of Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) and Leipzig University were now able to test the relationship between land tenure and deforestation rates in Brazil. Their research, which was published in Nature Communications, shows that poorly defined land rights go hand in hand with increased deforestation rates. Privatizing these lands, as is often promoted in the tropics, can only mitigate this effect if combined with strict environmental policies. Forestlands in Brazil harbor the world's largest biodiversity and carbon stores. However, increasing pressure from ambitious agroeconomic development leads to widespread deforestation. Land-tenure governs how and by whom land can be used. Therefore, specific land-tenure changes such as privatizing lands or placing them under environmental protection can both have implications for forests. Researchers from iDiv and Leipzig University have now analyzed 33 years (19852018) of agriculture-driven deforestation across Brazilian forestlands. With the help of property-level data, they were able to compare six land-tenure regimes (undesignated/untitled, private, strictly protected and sustainable-use protected areas, indigenous, and "quilombola" lands held by Afro-Brazilian communities) and to draw conclusions on how these regimes affect deforestation. Lands with poorly defined tenure rights increase deforestation Publicly owned lands with poorly defined tenure rights clearly and consistently increased deforestation compared to all other alternatives. These lands that are neither titled nor designated to any use, but may be inhabited by rural settlers with little-to-no guaranteed property rights, account for almost one hundred million hectares in Brazil. "High deforestation rates in these lands may have many reasons," explains first author Andrea Pacheco, former researcher at iDiv and now working at the University of Bonn. "For example, the government may simply not have the capacity to effectively monitor on-the-ground deforestation in these lands, resulting in limited enforcement of illegal deforestation here. This, in turn, can attract speculators who clear forest to later claim use rights. Alternatively, poor landless settlers may feel forced to illegally clear these lands for agriculture, if prices on legal land markets are too high for them." "This is why land-tenure interventions on these lands are so important. Our study shows that whatever alternative tenure regime with well-defined rights and regulations is implemented, it would likely help reduce this deforestation," adds last author Dr. Carsten Meyer from iDiv and UL. Private regimes can be effective if associated with strict environmental policy "Privatizing undesignated and untitled lands can be highly effective as a means to reduce deforestation, but only under certain conditions and if associated with strict environmental policies. If this is not the case, deforestation may actually increase," warns Carsten Meyer. One example for such environmental policies is the Forest Code in the Amazon, which requires landowners to maintain 80% of their land under native vegetation. However, across very different contexts, private regimes tend to decrease deforestation less effectively and less reliably than alternative well-defined regimes. The researchers showed that both strictly protected areas and sustainable-use protected areas most reliably reduced deforestation rates across Brazil. They also showed that the effects of tenure held by indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) were dependent on the context. Nonetheless, privatizing IPLC lands would likely increase the risk of deforestation across Brazil. "As much of the world's remaining forestlands are in IPLC lands, taking local contexts into account will be essential for designing policies with synergies for both biodiversity conservation and IPLCs," says Andrea Pacheco. The imperative need for policies that tackle undefined and private lands Against the backdrop of the ongoing political debate in Brazil around land privatization and protection in tropical landscapes, this study can be used to envisage policy aligned with sustainable development goals. The results show that, first and foremost, interventions in undesignated/untitled lands should be at the forefront of land-related policies in Brazil. In addition, coupling private lands with strict environmental policies has the potential to protect biodiversity in places like the Cerrado or Pantanal, where most of Brazil's remaining forestlands are private. Explore further Indigenous lands block Brazil deforestation: study More information: Andrea Pacheco et al, Land tenure drives Brazil's deforestation rates across socio-environmental contexts, Nature Communications (2022). Journal information: Nature Communications Andrea Pacheco et al, Land tenure drives Brazil's deforestation rates across socio-environmental contexts,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33398-3 Provided by German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Wetlands are areas of land that are covered by water, or have flooded or waterlogged soils. They can have water on them either permanently or for just part of the year. Whether it's year-round or seasonal, this period of water saturation produces hydric soils, which contain little or no oxygen. But this doesn't mean that they are lifeless: Wetlands are full of unique water-loving plants and wildlife that have adapted to wet environments. Wetlands can take many different forms, depending on the local climate, water conditions and land forms and features. For example, swamps are dominated by woody trees or shrubs. Marshes often have more grasslike plants, such as cattails and bulrushes. Bogs and fens are areas that accumulate peatdeposits of dead and partly decomposed plant materials that form organic-rich soil. Trillions of dollars in ecological benefits Wetlands are important environments for many reasons. They provide ecological services whose value has been estimated to be worth more than US$47 trillion per year. For example, wetlands support very high levels of biodiversity. Scientists estimate that 40% of all species on Earth live or breed in wetlands. Wetlands are critical homes or stopovers for many species of migratory birds. In the central U.S. and Canada, for example, wetlands in the so-called prairie pothole region on the Great Plains support up to three-quarters of North America's breeding ducks. The hunting and conservation group Ducks Unlimited works to conserve prairie pothole wetlands on North Americas Great Plains. Along with providing important habitat for everything from microbes to frogs to waterfowl, wetlands also work to improve water quality. They can capture surface runoff from cities and farmlands and work as natural water filters, trapping excess nutrients that otherwise might create dead zones in lakes and bays. Wetlands can also help remove other pollutants and trap suspended sediments that cloud water bodies, which can kill aquatic plants and animals. Because wetlands are often in low-lying areas of the landscape, they can store and slowly release surface water. Wetlands can be extremely important for reducing the impacts of flooding. In some places, water entering wetlands can also recharge groundwater aquifers that are important for irrigation and drinking water. Wetlands also act as important carbon sinks. As wetland plants grow, they remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. They they die, sink to the bottom of the wetland and decompose very slowly. Over time, the carbon they contain accumulates in wetland soils, where it can be stored for hundreds of years. Conserving and restoring wetlands is an important strategy for regulating greenhouse gases and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Resources at risk Despite the many valuable services they provide, wetlands are constantly being destroyed by draining them or filling them in, mainly for farming and development. Since 1970, the planet has lost 35% of its wetlands, a rate three times faster than the loss of forests. Destruction and degradation of wetlands has led to the loss of many organisms that rely on wetland habitat, including birds, amphibians, fish, mammals and many insects. As one example, many dragonfly and damselfly species are declining worldwide as the freshwater wetlands where they breed are drained and filled in. A marsh or bog may not look like a productive place, but wetlands teem with life and are critically important parts of our environment. Explore further Manmade wetlands: A barrier to the spread of microplastics This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The atmosphere protects life on Earth from the effects of the Suns radiation, but space travel is a different matter. Credit: NASA/SDO Nuclear fusion reactions in the sun are the source of heat and light we receive on Earth. These reactions release a massive amount of cosmic radiationincluding X-rays and gamma raysand charged particles that can be harmful for any living organisms. Life on Earth has been protected thanks to a magnetic field that forces charged particles to bounce from pole to pole as well as an atmosphere that filters harmful radiation. During space travel, however, it is a different situation. To find out what happens in a cell when traveling in outer space, scientists are sending baker's yeast to the moon as part of NASA's Artemis 1 mission. Cosmic damage Cosmic radiation can damage cell DNA, significantly increasing human risk of neurodegenerative disorders and fatal diseases, like cancer. Because the International Space Station (ISS) is located in one of two of Earth's Van Allen radiation beltswhich provides a safe zoneastronauts are not exposed too much. Astronauts in the ISS experience microgravity, however, which is another stress that can dramatically change cell physiology. As NASA is planning to send astronauts to the moon, and later on to Mars, these environmental stresses become more challenging. Graphical story of the science and engineering behind the last steps of integration and handover of the #DSRG before it launches on #SLS @NASASpaceSci @NASA_SLS The unit in the left will go to Lunar orbit while the right one is the backup, just in case I trip while holding it pic.twitter.com/QavR1OpzyW Luis Zea (@SpaceLuisZea) August 14, 2022 The most common strategy to protect astronauts from the negative effects of cosmic rays is to physically shield them using state-of-the-art materials. Lessons from hibernation Several studies show that hibernators are more resistant to high doses of radiation, and some scholars have suggested the use of "synthetic or induced torpor" during space missions to protect astronauts. Another way to protect life from cosmic rays is studying extremophilesorganisms that can remarkably tolerate environmental stresses. Tardigrades, for instance, are micro-animals that have shown an astonishing resistance to a number of stresses, including harmful radiation. This unusual sturdiness stems from a class of proteins known as "tardigrade-specific proteins." Tardigrade DNA may help increase resilience for other organisms. Credit: Shutterstock Under the supervision of molecular biologist Corey Nislow, I use baker's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, to study cosmic DNA damage stress. We are participating in NASA's Artemis 1 mission, where our collection of yeast cells will travel to the moon and back in the Orion spacecraft for 42 days. This collection contains about 6,000 bar-coded strains of yeast, where in each strain, one gene is deleted. When exposed to the environment in space, those strains would begin to lag if deletion of a specific gene affects cell growth and replication. My primary project at Nislow lab is genetically engineering yeast cells to make them express tardigrade-specific proteins. We can then study how those proteins can alter the physiology of cells and their resistance to environmental stressesmost importantly radiationwith the hope that such information would come in handy when scientists try to engineer mammals with these proteins. When the mission is completed and we receive our samples back, using the barcodes, the number of each strain could be counted to identify genes and gene pathways essential for surviving damage induced by cosmic radiation. A model organism Yeast has long served as a "model organism" in DNA damage studies, which means there is solid background knowledge about the mechanisms in yeast that respond to DNA-damaging agents. Most of the yeast genes playing roles in DNA damage response have been well studied. Despite the differences in genetic complexity between yeast and humans, the function of most genes involved in DNA replication and DNA damage response have remained so conserved between the two that we can obtain a great deal of information about human cells' DNA damage response by studying yeast. Furthermore, the simplicity of yeast cells compared to human cells (yeast has 6,000 genes while we have more than 20,000 genes) allows us to draw more solid conclusions. And in yeast studies, it is possible to automate the whole process of feeding the cells and stopping their growth in an electronic apparatus the size of a shoe box, whereas culturing mammalian cells requires more room in the spacecraft and far more complex machinery. Such studies are essential to understand how astronauts' bodies can cope with long-term space missions, and to develop effective countermeasures. Once we identify the genes playing key roles in surviving cosmic radiation and microgravity, we'd be able to look for drugs or treatments that could help boost the cells' durability to withstand such stresses. We could then test them in other models (such as mice) before actually applying them to astronauts. This knowledge might also be potentially useful for growing plants beyond Earth. Explore further Scientist sending yeast and algae to space on Artemis 1 This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Billy Trudsoe simply couldnt compete will a hurricane. Trudsoe, a former local chef, is competing on Season 21 of Gordon Ramsays Hells Kitchen Battle of the Ages, which premiered at 8 p.m. Sept. 29 on the Fox network. The show pits 20-something chefs against 40-something chefs, in a battle to win the head chef position at the new Hells Kitchen Restaurant in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Trudsoe, 40, had planned a rooftop watch party at Hotel Melby in Melbourne, Florida, where he now lives, but Hurricane Ian, which demolished parts of Florida, forced Trudsoe to cancel his plans. It went from hopefully a couple hundred people to watch it with, to just four or five of my closest family and a couple friends, Trudsoe said Monday. Its tough, but Im going to bounce back this Thursday. The Chestertown native, who spent most of his career cooking in restaurants on Lake George, is headed home to throw a party to watch the second episode. The party which is free and open to the public will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday at Bolton Landing Brewing Company on Lake Shore Drive in Bolton Landing. Visitors can enjoy music by Rich Ortiz, open bar, limited menu, merchandise, and a large projection screen to watch the second episode, which will reveal whose chicken wings recipe gets them kicked off the show. Trudsoe wouldnt disclose what flavor wings he would be making on the second episode. People that know me will know what kind of wings Im steering toward, Trudsoe said Monday afternoon on his way to catch a flight to New York. During the first episode, Trudsoe watched Gordon Ramsay burst onto the Los Angeles set in a monster truck and crush beneath it the car of Marino Monferrato, the maitre dhotel on the show. That was insane, Trudsoe said. All of a sudden you just see chef Ramsay flying through the air, smashing on Marinos car. I was like, this is going to be an epic season for sure. Trudsoe cooked his signature dish chicken francese, which Ramsay called clumpy, and gave the chef a score of 3 out of 5. Trudsoe was particularly proud that Ramsay liked the flavor profile of the dish, because 30 seconds into the competition off camera, Trudsoe pricked himself with a knife while cutting up mushrooms. I was bleeding, he said. It took me a while to get a medic, and once I got a medic and everything, I was behind, say like 7-10 minutes. So I had to battle back and get something on the plate. Ramsay also criticized the large portion size of the dish. I let him know that Im a big boy, and I get big boy portions, Trudsoe laughed. The 18 chef contestants are staying in a co-ed dorm, and all the men are sleeping in one room and sharing a co-ed bathroom with the women. With a lot of personalities, when it comes to nighttime, its always fun to see whos going to snore, who cant sleep, whos tossing and turning, Trudsoe said. So every night in Hells Kitchen is an adventure. Another contestant on the show criticized Trudsoes CPAP machine, calling him a Darth Vader-looking fella. Trudsoe laughed it off. A couple of contestants were busting my chops about that, but you know, its all fun and games. Im in Hells Kitchen, said the chef, who applauded folks who use CPAP machines to treat medical issues like sleep apnea. Trudsoe said future episodes will reveal an alliance with another chef as well as the development of a nemesis. You guys are going to have to wait and see who Im going to have bro-mance with, Trudsoe teased. Its coming soon. In the meantime, Trudsoe expressed his gratitude for all the support hes received from the upstate New York region. Its just a spectacular feeling, he said, knowing Ive got the whole 518 behind me. BANGKOK, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Monday ordered relevant agencies and local authorities to step up efforts to support flood-affected areas. At a meeting on flood situation management and assistance, Prayut urged efforts to assist local residents and entrepreneurs who have been badly affected by the flood, acting government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said. Prayut also ordered public agencies and the military to mobilize personnel and equipment to help evacuate affected people to safe areas, and provide food, drinking water and medicine to those in need, according to Anucha. The prime minister is scheduled to take a field trip to northeastern Thailand's Khon Kaen and Ubon Ratchathani provinces on Tuesday to inspect the flood situation, the spokesperson said. As of Monday, heavy rainfall has triggered flooding in 16 provinces in the country, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation under the Ministry of Interior. BRIGANTINE The mayor and City Council will address residents concerns about planned offshore wind projects during a town hall at 10 a.m. Saturday at the citys Community School, Mayor Vince Sera said in a press release Monday. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has greenlighted two separate projects planned by rsted and Atlantic Shores for wind turbines off the coast. Sera said community discussions about the projects are vital. The Atlantic Shores project, which city officials said is one of the states largest, will surround Brigantine about 10 miles off the coast as it stretches from Atlantic City to Long Beach Island. Both projects are part of Gov. Phil Murphys push for New Jersey to be a leading contributor in the nations clean-energy power supply and technology. Its still very unclear what impact this work will have on Brigantine and the surrounding communities, Sera said. Theres a lot of mixed opinions concerning this technology, and our City Council members want to do all we can to provide accurate information and to help minimize any potential negative impacts to our shore communities. Sera said he also is working to set up a joint community meeting with Atlantic Shores on Nov. 12 at the Brigantine Community Center, where homeowners can ask their questions to the company. Residents of shore towns have been both optimistic and skeptical about the projects, which are said to help power millions of New Jersey homes in a push for clean energy in the United States. Some Ocean Citys residents have pushed back against rsteds stretch of the wind farm, unsure of how having offshore turbines could affect property values once theyre completed. Like Brigantine, Ocean City planned another public meeting about offshore wind for Monday at the Flanders Hotel, but it was canceled as the area dealt with tidal flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ian. CAMDEN A pharmaceutical salesman involved in two South Jersey health care fraud schemes was sentenced Monday to 168 months in prison for his role, U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna said. Steven Monaco, 40, of Sewell, Gloucester County, was convicted in April of conspiracy to commit health care and wire fraud, health care fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Travel Act. The sentence follows a nine-day trial before U.S. District Judge Robert B. Kugler, who handed down Mondays sentence in Camden federal court. According to court records, Monaco helped lead two schemes that cost public health insurance plans millions of dollars. He is one of dozens charged in the health care fraud scheme that took place from 2014 to 2016. Kugler also sentenced Monaco to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $4.69 million in restitution, the U.S. Attorneys Office said Monday. In his position as a pharmaceutical sales rep for a diagnostic laboratory, Monaco partnered with Dr. Daniel Oswari in a kickback scheme, in which the physicians assistant would be placed on the labs payroll while working for the doctor. As a quid-pro-quo, Oswari referred patients to Monacos laboratory for testing between 2013 and 2016. Monaco, in turn, received $36,000 in commission from the lab, court records show. Oswari has pleaded guilty to his involvement and is awaiting sentencing, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Monaco also participated in a compound medication fraud scheme that targeted New Jersey health insurance plans for their reimbursements that transpired from 2014 to 2016. In that scheme, Monaco recruited Richard Zappala in approaching physicians to have them fill unnecessary prescriptions for the medicines, paying the medical professional in return. One of the physicians was Oswari, who was paid to prescribe the medications to patients he did not evaluate. Monaco also had Dr. Michael Goldis and his assistant, Jason Chacker, sign off on prescriptions for Monacos family and others that did not consult with the doctor, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Monaco directly compensated Chacker with money and tickets to sporting events, and Zappala paid Goldis cash to sign the medically unnecessary prescriptions for members of Monacos family and others. Monaco also paid individuals covered under public insurance plans to receive compound medications. He made around $350,000 from the scheme, costing public insurance over $4.6 million, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Zappala, Goldis and Chacker have also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Monacos sentencing is one of many expected in the upcoming months tied to health care fraud in South Jersey. Most notably, conspiracy leader William Hickman is scheduled to be sentenced this month. Three brothers, Thomas, Michael and John Sher, all of whom are former Margate firefighters, are also set to be sentenced at varying hearings for their roles in the scheme. Michael and John Sher pleaded guilty to their charges, while Thomas Sher was convicted for his role as sub-recruiter under Hickman during a roughly two-week trial from late August to early September. It was a time to reflect on the past and carry the legacy of survivors into the days to come. Dozens gathered via Zoom on Sunday for a Mitzvah Zecher Avot service to commemorate South Jersey survivors of the Holocaust and their families. The service, organized by the Sara & Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center at Stockton University, is typically held at Rodef Sholom Cemetery in Egg Harbor Township in a special section devoted to Holocaust survivors. Although it was moved to a virtual format this year due to forecasted rain and high winds, attendees dedication to remembering the heroism of their families past was undampened. Leo Schoffer, whose parents were Holocaust survivors and are the namesakes of the Holocaust center, spoke to the significance of the event. He noted that Holocaust survivors themselves created the service decades ago and led it for years. I am sure that many of us remember going to these services with our parents over those years, Schoffer said. With their passing, it is now our responsibility to pick up the mantel and continue this tradition of remembering and paying respect to our survivors. Organizers said that the service for Mitzvah Zecher Avot, which means the good deed of remembering family in English, has traditionally been held on the Sunday between the High Holidays of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. Its principle event is the recitation of the names of local survivors of the Holocaust, with attendees invited to share stories about their loved ones. There were 353 names of Holocaust survivors read aloud this year by 15 speakers, many of whom had family members among the recited names. Barbara Roth, who was among the readers Sunday, said she was grateful for the work put in to organize the service. She took time to recall her memories of her parents, Albert and Manya Cinger, who she said were the only Holocaust survivors in their families. She also reflected on the comfort they found in Vineland and throughout South Jersey. She also thanked her in-laws for their love and support. All the survivors were our family and many of the names that were here, Roth said. We would just all be together, everyone for each other. Mindelle Pierce, another reader whose parents, Jack and Rose Najman, were Holocaust survivors, reminded attendees of the imperative to remember. We must not forget what happened and it is a tribute to Stockton and to everybody here that we are allowing the memories of the people of our families to come again alive to this wonderful gathering, Pierce said. Michele Kramer, who helped local Holocaust survivors when working as a social worker, was familiar with many of the people on the list. Her father, Ernest Elias, was a Holocaust survivor and she said her work was done in his memory. I cant tell you how much it meant to me to know them, Kramer said. Mona Trocki-Ozlek said that she was moved by the details and family stories shared during the service. Speaking to The Press of Atlantic City before the event, she recalled a story about how her step-grandfather kept caramel candy in his pocket. Her parents, Jack and Mira Trocki, were Holocaust survivors. Even if I said that, I felt like Im bringing up somebody that really had a life, that you could talk about him, Trocki-Ozlek said. It made that person in our minds. And I miss everybody, you know? The recitation of names and memories was bookended by several readings and prayers. Cantor Ralph Goren, of the Beth El Synagogue in Margate, read Psalm 23; the El Malei Rachamim, a prayer for those who have died, with a title that means Merciful God; and the Mourners Kaddish. He also led an El Malei for those who passed in the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews murdered by Nazi Germany and its collaborators. The Mitzvah Zecher Avot service is just one of efforts of the Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center to preserve the legacy of survivors of the Holocaust. In September, the center launched its Holocaust Survivors of South Jersey digital archive and an associated website. Stockton Professor Michael Hayse, the head of the archival project, said that there are currently 1,511 survivors with their names and stories recorded in the archives. In April, Stockton hosted an exhibit detailing the lives of Jews who resided in displaced-persons camps in the aftermath of World War II. The United Nations Archive of Global Communications and the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research organized the exhibit. We take it very seriously and feel that its a great responsibility that not just the names, but also the stories of our Holocaust survivors live on and are told, Hayse said. Stockton Professor Gail Rosenthal, the director of the Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center, said that the projects and classes were created with the purpose of carrying on the legacy of survivors. Your stories will continue, Rosenthal said. Because, who will be left when no one is left to tell the stories? It will be our students and our students children and grandchildren. Samuel Krantz exhorted the audience to continue to search for names of survivors to add to the archives so their lives can be celebrated. The work is not done yet, Krantz said. Rabbi Aaron Krauss, also of the Beth El Synagogue, has long helped lead the Mitzvah Zecher Avot service to remember Holocaust survivors. He reflected on the legacy of the Holocaust survivors and credited the Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center for its work to preserve tradition. They shall always be remembered and held to our hearts, precious to us and precious to future generations, Krauss said. We remember what happened, we remember the people, the pain and the suffering and the marvelous traditions they leave behind. 10:10 p.m. Atlantic City International Airport broke a daily rainfall record Sunday and Monday. That was the first time a record was broken for two consecutive days in a row since Sept. 9-10, 2018 according to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly. The record on Monday is only 0.59 inches. More than likely, the airport will do this, according to Meteorologist Joe Martucci. If so, that will be the first time since Sept. 11, 12 and 13, 2005 that has happened, according to the weather service. 9:50 p.m. Meteorologist Joe Martucci shares video of the rough seas from Brigantine Monday afternoon. Joe recaps the tidal flooding, highest winds and six plus inches of rain seen in parts of South Jersey so far. Joe says we're only expecting more of the same Tuesday. Be weather aware and don't drive through the flood water. 7:20 p.m. While coastal flooding has been the most impactful, over a half foot of rain has been seen with this storm, prompting new daily records. Sen. Frank S. Farley State Marina in Atlantic City broke the daily record on Saturday and Sunday. 1.21 inches of rain fell on Saturday. Sunday was more impressive. Here, 3.45 inches of rain fell, nearly doubling the previous record of 1.74 inches of rain. That was the sixth highest October rainfall in history, but records stretch all the way back to 1874. Atlantic City International Airport broke the daily rainfall records on Sunday and Monday, respectively. 3.01 inches of rain fell on Oct. 2, beating out the 1.36 inch amount in 1961. Not only was it a daily rainfall record, but it was the fourth highest daily rainfall in October's history going back to 1943. A new record was also set Monday, with 1.40 inches of rain, though that amount will go up. Millville also broke the daily rainfall record on Sunday. It's possible records get broken again Tuesday as well. The daily record at the airport is 0.59 inches, unusually low for a record. Millville's record is 0.43 inches. The marina's record is over an inch but that could be toppled as well. 7:00 p.m. Dock Road in Eagleswood juts out into the Barnegat Bay. During coastal flooding, the road sees water on it. However, in moderate flood stage, waters climb higher and rushes into the garages of people's homes. See the difference in this video here. Raw video footage is provided by Maureen Saraullo. 5:51 p.m. Avalon Mayor Martin Paliughi reported that moderate flood stage did take hold Monday afternoon. However, there were no reports of property damage. For the second day in a row Atlantic City International Airport broke a daily rainfall record. As of 5:39 p.m. 1.40 inches of rain fell, besting the previous record of 1.17 inches set in 2009. On Sunday, the airport had 3.01 inches of rainfall. That was the fourth highest October rainfall in on record. 5:00 p.m. The North Wildwood and Ocean City Senior Centers will be closed on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, due to the potential of extended coastal flooding. The Upper Township and Lower Cape Senior Centers will be open, maintaining normal hours of operation. Fare Free will not be transporting to and from the barrier islands, with the exception of Meals on Wheels and Dialysis. 4:00 p.m. Flooding began affected travel in and around Atlantic City by 3:48 p.m., city officials said on social media. Road closures were being reported inbound to Atlantic City on the Black Horse Pike (Route 40). Outbound closures were also reported at Exit 2 of the Atlantic City Expressway, as well as Melrose and New Jersey avenues and Fairmount and Mississippi. Early this afternoon, city officials stressed the need to vacate roads by late afternoon, when they expected flood waters to begin covering the streets in a four-to six-hour weather event. 3:30 p.m. The Press of Atlantic City has a collection of photos from around the region of tidal flooding happening right now. Most places are in moderate flood stage, which is defined as flooding that can damage property. 3:00 p.m. Due to the high tide Dorset Avenue Bridge in Ventnor is not passable along with Wellington Avenue due to flooding. The city expects the area to be passable in approximately two hours. 2:30 p.m. Tidal flooding is happening now but tide gauges are coming in the on the lower side of forecasts, meaning less flooding. Borderline minor to moderate flood stage is now likely, as opposed to solid moderate flood stage. That means more nuisance flooding than property damaging flooding. The reason is the wind direction. Winds have been coming from the north-northeast- more parallel to the shore, than the northeast, which pushes more water ashore. With winds not as strong as Sunday, which was forecasted, it leads to less flooding. Still there is rain around in spots, there is flooding, do pay attention. Do not drive through the flood waters. Submit your photos and video to www.pressofac.com/photosubmissions. 1:45 p.m. Videos have circulated social media throughout the morning and early afternoon of rough surf along the Jersey Shore. Beachfront properties in Stone Harbor are being protected by dunes as white caps crash into them, making their way over beaches that have been eaten away in the surf. 1:27 p.m. "Turn around, don't drown" is the phase Atlantic City officials are urging residents to follow as they expect multiple inches of water to cover city streets by this afternoon. During a press conference around 1 p.m., both Fire Chief Scott Evans said Mayor Marty Small Sr. said the city plans on sounding its flood sirens when rising waters are anticipated to make their way throughout the city's streets. Two to three major roadways are expected to be closed by late Monday afternoon, Evans said. Both Small and Evans urged residents living in low-lying areas to move their cars sooner than later, making use of free parking at the Wave Parking Garage on Fairmount and Mississippi avenues that was extended until Thursday. 12:32 p.m. Middle Township is rescheduling its Monday meeting to 6 p.m. Wednesday as the area continues preparing for expected tidal flooding. The meeting will still be at Township Hall, 33 Mechanic Street, officials said. 12:15 p.m. A planned public hearing on the use of Green Acres land for the Ocean Wind 1 offshore wind energy project set for Monday evening has been canceled as the remnants of Hurricane Ian batter the region. The notice of the cancelation came about 11:30 a.m. The meeting was set for 6 p.m. at The Flanders Hotel in Ocean City. To read the complete story click here. Noon Those planning on traveling across the Delaware Bay using the Cape May - Lewes Ferry should plan alternate travel methods after the ferry cancelled several Monday departures. Citing rough seas, the ferry canceled the following departures: Cape May 9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 1 p.m. Lewes 11:15 a.m. 12:45 p.m. 2:45 p.m. Additional trips may be cancelled Monday, so travelers should check their departures throughout the afternoon, the ferry representatives said. 11:30 a.m. The region is just getting into the worst of the high tide flooding from this storm. Both Monday and Tuesday afternoons will be about the same. Many places will see moderate stage tidal flooding. A few back bays may reach major flood stage for the first time since Winter Storm Jonas in January 2016. The good news at this time is that the worst case scenario of a widespread major flood stage event will not happen. Winds have been north-northeast, rather than northeast. That small change in direction is enough to keep a little less water away from normally dry ground. Here are a few links to help you plan out the flooding for the afternoon. 10:35 a.m. Officials at Margaret Mace School in North Wildwood announced an early release Monday due to anticipated flooding in the Wildwoods. Students were expected to be released at 12:15 p.m. All afterschool events have been postponed, officials said. 10:30 a.m. Free parking at the Wave Garage in Atlantic City for residents will be extended until noon Thursday, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority said. The decision came after a request by the city's Office of Emergency Management, CRDA said. Last week, CRDA announced it would provide free parking at the garage on Fairmount and Mississippi avenues over the weekend while remnants of Hurricane Ian started passing through the area. Free parking is still restricted to the garage's second level. 9:45 a.m. Flooding on Long Beach Boulevard in Long Beach Township 9 a.m. Beach Haven officials announced Monday that the borough's office would be closed for the day as flooding still plagued the area. High tide is expected to affect the borough around 4 p.m. on Monday, officials said in a Nixle alert. 8:53 a.m. Flooding near the Brigantine school forced officials Monday to give students a three-day weekend. Mayor Vince Sera on Monday tweeted that tidal flooding caused a pump station on Quay Boulevard to fail. Public works was heading to the site on Monday to fix the issue, Sera said. 8:48 a.m. Students at Oakcrest High School have Monday off because the building is closed for electrical and weather issues, school officials said. Officials will update students and parents throughout the day through text, email and the website, according to the school's Twitter page early Monday morning. The remnants of Hurricane Ian on Monday continued moving across the region, bringing with it a days-long period of rain that is causing tidal flooding along the Jersey Shore. Rain, which began Friday, is expected to end Wednesday. OCEAN CITY A planned public hearing on the use of Green Acres land for the Ocean Wind 1 offshore wind energy project set for Monday evening has been canceled as the remnants of Hurricane Ian batter the region. The notice of the cancelation came about 11:30 a.m. The meeting was set for 6 p.m. at The Flanders Hotel in Ocean City. The hearing will be rescheduled, according to officials with Ocean Wind, but the new date has not yet been set. Please take notice that, due to the coastal flood warning issued by the National Weather Service and concern for the safety of the public, the public hearing to be held by Ocean Wind, LLC (Ocean Wind 1) today at 6 p.m. at the Flanders Hotel, located at 719 E 11th St., Ocean City, New Jersey is cancelled, reads an email sent Monday. The hearing will be rescheduled, and notice of the new hearing date will be published in accordance with the Green Acres Rules, N.J.A.C. 7:36-1.1 et seq., on Ocean Wind 1s website at www.OceanWindOne.com, and on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protections website at https://dep.nj.gov/otpla/diversion-application-information-page-ocean-city-ocean-wind-project/ Advocates and opponents of the offshore wind proposal had planned to speak at the meeting, which was set to get public input on the diversion of preserved land to allow a power line to cross Ocean City at 35th Street on the way to the site of the former B.L. England power plant, where the power would enter the electricity grid. Plans call for another line to land at the site of the former Oyster Creek nuclear power plant. Officials in Ocean City have called on Ocean Wind to provide more details on the plan, including presenting the cost to use an alternate route, possibly running the line through the Great Egg Harbor Inlet. As proposed, the line would run under the public beach and then cross the barrier island. According to documents from Ocean Wind 1, the company proposes to pay $205,000 to the state Department of Environmental Protection for the use of the Green Acres land, which would be used to acquire a little less than two acres of land to replace what was used. The properties include beach lots at the end of 35th Street, another beachfront lot and an area north of the Roosevelt Boulevard Bridge, totaling just over 6/10ths of an acre. Ocean City expected flooding from the Monday afternoon high tide, and warned that cars should be moved from flood prone areas. On Monday morning, city officials warned that the National Weather Service had extended a Coastal Flood Warning for the city through 9 p.m. Tuesday. The forecast calls for sustained northeast winds of 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and rain on Monday and continuing through Tuesday. A Wind Advisory will be in effect through 6 p.m. Monday. A High Surf Advisory also will be in effect through Tuesday, reads the citys notification. By Susie Mesure Part of the challenge of visiting the Islington home developed by Pushpa Gulhane and David Smith the couple behind homewares and lifestyle store Aria is figuring out how to get in. The four-bedroom house is situated behind a Groupworks-designed building that was commissioned by the couple in 2019, and which houses a showroom for Aria; to access it you have to find a door half-hidden in the terracotta-coloured concrete facade a recreation of a grand Victorian building on Islingtons Upper Street that was destroyed by a bomb during the second world war. Sometimes you see people wondering whats going on. Is the wall moving? says Chris Twaddle of Kennedy Twaddle, the architects behind the project, which was completed this summer. Once through the door, a narrow alleyway leads to a small private courtyard and the main front door of the three-storey building. The house, which is on the market for 3.2mn, was converted from the warehouse of a Victorian department store. A cedar-clad terrace sits between the main living spaces on the second floor, with a staircase leading to the roof terrace Squeezing a house into a space accessed only by a narrow alleyway was challenging. The structural engineer had to design things that would fit through a small space, says Twaddle. We had to prop up the [existing] walls while we inserted the new building. The advantage was we could make it very energy efficient and insulate all the walls. A timber-clad heat pump in the courtyard provides heating and hot water, while copper rainwater pipes tone with the existing Fletton brickwork. The distinctive herringbone joist struts have been left visible Gulhane says the look and feel of the house, which is clad with brown brindle brick and decorated in a neutral palette, reflects the mix of items sold at Aria. Some pieces are included in the purchase price, such as a Togo sofa and an Alando desk by Ligne Roset. We are known for very eclectic design, Gulhane says. Some of our key pieces are antiques but they sit next to Ligne Roset or Alessi in the kitchen. In a similar way, this property has a mix of styles. The terrace features a living roof to attract insects and has a view of the Groupworks-designed building that houses Arias Upper Street store With the Douglas fir ceilings, for example, the traditional bracing using herringbone joist struts has been left visible. Its quite sculptural and catches the light, says Twaddle. The white spiral steel staircase, which is cantilevered from the main structural beams, is another distinctive feature, as is the frameless skylight, which crowns the nine-metre-high property. Because the original building was not residential, we didn't automatically go for things you'd associate with a home, such as a timber staircase, adds Gulhane, who founded Aria with her husband in 1989. The living room and a kitchen with Corian counters is on the second floor. A private cedar-clad terrace sits between these two spaces and is accessible via oak-framed glass doors. From there, an external staircase leads to a second terrace with a living roof, to attract insects, and views over the trees that line Barnsbury Street. Photographs: Savills Three juveniles were apprehended after a car chase ended in Bettendorf. It started about 4 p.m. Sunday, when police tried to stop a stolen Toyota Camry heading east on 53rd Avenue and Devils Glen Road. Bettendorf Capt. Justin Paul said there were an estimated four suspects. The vehicle was stolen out of Davenport. Neighboring law enforcement departments were notified and joined forces in the pursuit. Bettendorf officers followed from a distance and deployed spike strips at Grant and 18th streets as the vehicle was westbound at State Street. The suspects fled the vehicle after all four tires had flattened next to Meier Park in Bettendorf, at 6th and Grant streets. Local law enforcement set up a perimeter in the surrounding area three Iowa State Patrol units, two Davenport police units, a Davenport K9 unit and a Davenport Crime Scene unit. Three of the suspects, all juveniles, were apprehended following the pursuit. Because the suspects were juveniles, Bettendorf police said no other information was available. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges will break ground Wednesday for its new, six-acre Clinton Community College Career Advancement Center in DeWitt. The new Career Advancement Center aligns with our mission and meets the needs of our communities,'' Clinton Community College President Brian Kelly said in a press release. We have had a tremendous amount of support from the community and look forward to providing opportunities to accessible, high-quality education and training that prepares a skilled workforce, ready for the demands of our area employers. According to Kelly, the expansion marks the first time CCC has had a physical presence in DeWitt. The facility will house one classroom wing and another wing offering a large, open space for industrial and agricultural instruction. The project comes as a part of the $40 million bond referendum passed in March 2021. The center will offer programs in areas of construction technology, agriculture, business, machining, information technology and healthcare. Through EICC Career Academies, local high school upperclassmen will have to opportunity to learn more about these high-demand industries at no cost. The community has seen many changes in our workforce over the past several years. This outstanding partnership with our school districts and local businesses will address a shifting workforce dynamic and provide additional opportunities for our community. We are excited to be a part of the solution, said Kelly in the press release. The facility will be open for use next summer. ISLAMABAD, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The number of dengue fever cases is continuing to rise in Pakistan amid an outbreak due to floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains in the South Asian country. The southern Sindh province reported 341 new infections, said the provincial health department on Sunday evening. The worst-hit area was Karachi, the provincial capital, which reported 241 new cases. The total number of cases this year in the province has reached 10,495. In the last 24 hours, 287 more people were diagnosed with the disease in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the provincial health department reported on Sunday night. The number of active cases in the province currently stands at 2,070 and the total number of cases this year has reached 9,249. The eastern Punjab province reported 276 new cases in the last 24 hours, the provincial health authorities said on Sunday. Punjab's capital Lahore reported 119 new cases, followed by Rawalpindi city with 69 cases. The total number of dengue cases in Punjab this year has now gone up to 7,039. The national capital Islamabad reported 44 new dengue cases in the last 24 hours, the health authorities said on Sunday night. The city's total tally has risen to 2,552 this year. Republican candidate for the Illinois 17th Congressional district Esther Joy King has received the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police State Lodge endorsement. The East Moline Republican received the endorsement Oct. 3. Illinois FOP State Lodge President Chris Southwood said in a statement that King had received their endorsement because of her "strong and unwavering support" of law enforcement. "As a third-generation member of the U.S. Military and a JAG officer who's familiar with enforcing the law, Esther will always have the backs of our citizens and the law enforcement officers who protect them," Southwood said. King said she was proud to earn the endorsement of F.O.P. and the trust of many officers across this district. "Law enforcement has a difficult job, and they need our support," King said. "I will always work to support a stronger police force and one that is connected to our communities." The Illinois FOP represents more than 34,000 active duty and retired police officers. The FOP was founded in 1915 and the Illinois FOP was chartered in 1963. It is the second-largest state lodge. Dozens of Iowa prison inmates who received overdoses of the COVID-19 vaccine will not receive payment from the state for injuries they say they sustained. The State Appeals Board on Monday voted unanimously to deny the claims from 52 inmates at Fort Madison prison who said they had various symptoms from being administered six times the proper dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in April 2021. The inmates were seeking $1 million each. The recommendations from the office of the Iowa Attorney General said the state is immune from claims that stem from COVID-19 vaccine administration because of the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act. The federal law allows the Department of Health and Human Services to issue a declaration in response to an emergency that provides immunity for some entities. The current COVID-19 declaration protects negligence by a health care provider in prescribing the wrong dose of a vaccine. The inmates were among 77 who received six times the proper dose of the vaccine in 2021. The state fired two nurses later that year in connection with the incident. At least one of the nurses, Amanda Dodson, was fined $500 by the Iowa Board of Nursing, according to the Iowa Capital Dispatch. According to the Capital Dispatch, the two nurses administered the vaccine to 77 inmates on April 13, 2021. After going to retrieve more vials of the vaccine, Dodson found there was none left. She then read the label on the vial and realized they had been administering six times the recommended dose. Inmates who received the overdose of the vaccine reported symptoms similar to those experienced with the proper dose of the vaccine, including body aches, but none were hospitalized, according to reporting at the time. Robots have become increasingly popular in the hospitality industry over the last few years. The need for providing contactless services along with automation has become vital to the hotel experience. The use of robots ranges from artificially intelligent chatbots, food delivery robots and housekeeping robots to further improve guests experience in a hotel. With the pandemic (almost) behind us, Liv Hospitality has recruited robots to assist with labor shortages in Deadwood and Rapid City, South Dakota. Below are examples of how robots are helping out at Liv Hospitality. Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort in Deadwood is bringing the excitement of modern technology to its restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant delivery robot can serve food and drinks, as well as seat guests. The robot dubbed Lizzie takes food and drinks directly to the tables, the bar or wherever else its programmed to. It is also programmed to bus tables and help clean up! La Quinta by Wyndham in Rapid City currently has eight robots assisting with housekeeping efforts throughout the hotel. During the first two weeks, the robots collectively covered almost 70,000 square feet. Each robot is designed to do supplemental cleaning alongside a human housekeeper, allowing housekeepers to focus on other aspects of their job. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort in Deadwood is staying ahead of the curve with plans to deploy two Tug Robots to assist with food deliveries, room supplies, special guest requests and housekeeping. The resort also plans to deploy seven additional robots to assist with housekeeping between DoubleTree by Hilton and SpringHill Suites by Marriott in the coming weeks. Modern and secure guest communication So how does the robot communicate with guests? When the robot arrives outside the guests room, the guest receives a message on their phone with a single-use bar code. The code provides secure access to the compartment containing their delivery. Guests can be assured their delivery is both secure and private. Once they scan the bar code displayed on their phone, the door opens automatically, and the guest retrieves their delivery. This content was produced by Brand Ave. Studios. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display. Brand Ave. Studios connects advertisers with a targeted audience through compelling content programs, from concept to production and distribution. For more information contact sales@brandavestudios.com. Kevin Locke, an acclaimed Native American flute player, hoop dancer, cultural ambassador and educator, died Friday night. Earlier in the day, he had given a performance at Crazy Horse Memorial near Custer. He was 68. An enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and from the ancestral line of Lakota and Anishinabe, Locke died after returning to his hotel room in Hill City, his son Ohiyesa Locke said Monday. Ohiyesa Locke said his father suffered an asthma attack and died while he was being taken to the hospital. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Eagles Landing Lodge in Custer. There will be a noontime Lakota meal, followed by burial at 2:30 p.m. at Bell Park Cemetery in Rochford. A ceremony to release Lockes spirit is planned Saturday on Standing Rock Indian Reservation, Ohiyesa Locke said. Ohiyesa Locke, of Killeen, Texas, told the Associated Press he had been video chatting with his father several hours before he died. He was walking through the Black Hills and telling me how beautiful they were, and he talked about some of the history of the Lakota people, he said. Whitney Rencountre, Crazy Horse Memorial CEO, posted a tribute on Facebook about Locke and his final performance, noting how pleased Locke was to see a busload of students from Oglala Lakota Oyate arrive. I invited them in to dance with (Kevin). His eyes lit up and he went on teaching them and got them dancing with him, while showing them how to use a hoop. He was singing old songs he said he rarely shares in presentations, almost like he knew it would be his final time sharing them, Rencountre said. Rencountre said he and Locke considered one another nephew and uncle though they were not related by blood. Rencountre traveled to South America with Locke and said Locke made a worldwide impact. Locke visited Crazy Horse Memorial at least yearly for special events and for a week of performances, Rencountre said. Locke will be mentioned during Native American Day events at Crazy Horse Memorial, and a tribute to Locke will be held in the future at the memorial, Rencountre said. We in the Native community are so proud he shared the message of our people on pretty much every corner of Earth. The fact that he dedicated his life to doing that were very proud of him and well continue to carry him with us in our hearts, Rencountre said. According to his website, Locke performed for nearly 40 years for hundreds of thousands of people in more than 90 countries at performing art centers, festivals, schools, universities, conferences, state and national parks, monuments and powwows. Wherever he travelled, he shared Lakota stories and histories and defended Lakota ways. He was honored with a National Heritage Fellowship and a Bush Enduring Vision Award. He also won Native American Music Awards for his flute albums. Indigenous artist and educator As a folk artist, Locke used his talents to teach others about Native American history and especially enjoyed working with children on the reservations to ensure the survival and growth of Indigenous culture, the website said. He taught hoop dancing to his children and others. A biography from Lockes family said Locke received the hoop dance from Arlo Goodbear, a Mandan-Hidatsa relative. Just start jumping around, Goodbear joked, and Locke began learning with six hoops. Goodbear died very suddenly before he and Locke could meet for more practice. The biography said Locke continued to receive teachings through dreams. Me and my sisters used to travel with my dad and wed perform. We all know how to dance, Ohiyesa Locke said. I remember when he first started hoop dancing, he kept doing it, perfecting his craft and eventually that was his livelihood, his son said. He educated through a new vision for his life and he followed his path in life. Born in Los Angeles in 1954, Locke lived in locations around the United States including Alaska, Colorado and Virginia, his son said. According to a biography from his family, at age 16, Locke began hitchhiking his way across North America. Throughout his lifetime, he visited every continent and more than 237 Indigenous homelands. He often traveled with his children or other relatives. Locke attended high school at the Institute of American Indian Arts in New Mexico. Locke studied at Black Hills State University, earned a bachelors degree from the University of South Dakota and a masters degree in educational administration from the University of North Dakota, his son said. Ultimately, South Dakota is where Ohiyesa Locke said he and his three sisters were born. Locke initially planned a career in education, serving as the principal at Standing Rock Grant School for two years before deciding he never wanted to work a 9-to-5 job again, a biography from his family said. Instead, teaching about the Lakota language and culture became his livelihood. Locke was a fluent, self-taught speaker of the Lakota language. While living in the Little Eagle community, he would go around and record the elders and he taught himself to speak Lakota. Its very difficult (the language), Ohiyesa Locke said. Locke served as a board member for the Lakota Language Consortium, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the language. Ohiyesa Locke said two of his sisters speak Lakota. Locke also became a renowned player of the North American flute. A biography provided by his family said Locke was gifted his first flute by his mother, Patricia. As a young man, Locke saw actor and musician Richard Fool Bull playing the Indigenous flute. After the presentation, he approached him to ask who else could play. No one, Fool Bull replied. Thats too bad; someone should carry this on, Locke said. Youre right, Fool Bull said. You should carry this on. And so the flute tradition was passed on to Locke. As he was taught, he practiced every day before dawn. When he and his sisters were growing up, Ohiyesa Locke said he remembers hearing his father play the flute for hours and hours. Not just melodies. Those are songs that have Lakota words. Those are traditional songs he plays on his flute. Those are passed down through generations, Ohiyesa Locke said. Since 1982, Locke recorded 12 albums of music and stories, most recently The First Flute, Open Circle," Keepers of the Dream, and Dream Catcher, according to his website. The Native American Music Awards issued a statement Saturday after learning of Lockes death. Kevin Locke was undoubtedly one of the greatest flutists, hoop dancers and teachers the world had ever seen. He will be greatly missed. The Native American Music Awards would like to extend their deepest condolences and sorrow to his family, the statement read. Spiritual legacy Ohiyesa Locke remembered his father Monday as a knowledgeable man who was always reading and learning and who had an amazing vocabulary. Locke was a deeply spiritual man, as well. My dad was a believer in his religion, the Bahai faith. One of his main missions was unification of the human race, said Ohiyesa Locke, saying his father opposed discrimination, racism and conflict. Locke believed in human rights and equality. He was a man who practiced what he preached, Rencountre said. He was a very enlightened individual with a good heart. He wanted people to have love and respect for each other, his son said. He lived his life believing in not being materialistic. He treated his body like a temple. He took care of himself physically, mentally and spiritually. "I have always been in admiration of him, and he wanted me to follow in his footsteps. But his shoes were too big to fill, he said. He was a gifted man, a gifted individual. A lot of people say Theres only going to be one Kevin Locke. Theres not one that can fill his shoes. He had a purpose in life and he followed it down its path, Ohiyesa Locke said. The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust will fund the first 36 months of operations for Pennington County's Crisis Stabilization Unit. The trust, which will award a $4 million grant to the county, made the announcement Monday morning with Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden, Pennington County Commission Chair Gary Drewes and other county personnel. The 14,000-square-foot Crisis Stabilization Unit, which will be called Pivot Point, will be operated by Behavior Management Systems. The Pennington County Commission announced the name at its Sept. 20 meeting. It is set to open by the end of the year. Pivot Point will add 16 beds and serve acute behavioral needs across West River. It will have eight recliner-type chairs for stays up to 24 hours and 16 beds for stays up to five days. Walter Panzirer, a trustee with the Helmsley Charitable Trust, said Helmsley is extremely excited to help fund Pivot Point, which will improve the continuum of mental health care by providing a regionalized approach to crisis intervention services. Clients seeking mental health treatment need a safe and supportive space to stabilize, Panzirer said. Having this facility closer to where they live will dramatically reduce the likelihood of readmission. In 2018, the Helmsley Charitable Trust helped fund a $118,000 year-long study of western South Dakotas mental health services that included an assessment of strengths, needs and accessibility. Western South Dakotas crisis stabilization unit was borne out of that study. In 2020, the state of South Dakota allocated $4.2 million for the facility. Pennington County, Monument Health, the City of Rapid City and philanthropy support raised the remaining funds for the $6.2 million public-private partnership. In addition, Monument Health has also pledged a contribution of $1 million over the first four years to support the facility. We worked with our partners to push a new model of care to keep patients closer to home and their support systems, said Pennington County Sheriff Kevin Thom. Pivot Point will serve communities across Western South Dakota as a more effective and affordable model for South Dakota. A battalion of the South Dakota Army National Guard was thanked by Gov. Kristi Noem, U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., for their sacrifice and service during a deployment ceremony Saturday. Twelve South Dakota communities are represented in the deployment. The Journal agreed to release limited information on the deployment due to security concerns and the nature of the mission. Noem thanked and recognized each soldier on their deployment, and recognized those who are on their second, third, fourth and fifth deployments. Noem said the state's motto is "Under God, the people rule." "We are about people but we also recognize that this country is incredibly important and keeping law and order and safety for its citizens is paramount to preserving the freedom and liberties that we get the chance to enjoy every single day," she said. Thune said he couldn't tell the battalion members and families present how proud he was of the work they do in South Dakota, but has always said the state punches above its weight when it comes to serving the country. He said South Dakota's guard is known for its reputation of professionalism, talent, training and work ethic. "It doesn't matter where you go," he said. "We stand here today just saying thank you to let you know how grateful we are for your willingness to be difference makers." Johnson said he could recall when his uncle was getting deployed and looked to his family for a cue on how to respond. He said his family, his grandmother specifically, was overwhelmed with pride. "When I talk to these families, you get a sense that the pride they have is a lot bigger than the sadness they have," he said. Johnson said his grandmother wasn't proud because he was going by train or truck, but proud because her son woke up and chose to put on the uniform. "In this country, it's a choice," he said. "For those of you who are being deployed, we understand it's not just a choice. It is a sacred gift that you are giving us at this time. For all of us, for those who have a little sadness or those who have a lot of sadness, we just want to thank you for what you're doing and we have a lot of pride in that sacred gift you're giving us." State Duma adopts bill on incorporation of new subjects into Russia MOSCOW, October 3 (RAPSI) The State Duma on Monday passed four constitutional bills on the admission of the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions, the Donetsk and Lugansk Peoples Republics to the Russian Federation. The draft laws were submitted to the lower house of Russian parliament by President Vladimir Putin on Sunday. The same day, the corresponding documents were found to conform the Constitution by the Constitutional Court. On September 30, President Vladimir Putin signed agreements on the incorporation of the four territories and the formation of new regions in the country. People have made their choice. An unequivocal choice. Today we are signing an agreement on the accession of four new subjects of the Russian Federation. Because this is the will of millions of people, Putin said before signing the agreements. The solemn signing ceremony took place in the St. George Hall of the Kremlin in the presence of the heads of the DPR, LPR, Zaporozhye and Kherson regions. Referendums in the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics, as well as in the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions were held from 23 to 27 September. An absolute majority of their residents voted for the accession of the territories to Russia. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, speaking about the referendums, reminded that Russia is guided by the opinion of people living in the respective territories, and they are the masters of their own destiny. Deputy head of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev said that the referendums should restore historical justice. After a federal judge reinstated a drilling lease, a group of tribal and environmental groups continues to fight to prevent energy exploration in a mountainous Montana landscape sacred to the Blackfeet people. On Sept. 9, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ordered the Department of the Interior to reinstate a federal lease and drilling permit to Louisiana-based Solenex LLC, potentially reopening 10 square miles of the Badger-Two Medicine area to road construction and oil rigs. The 130,000-acre, currently roadless area lies southwest of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is sandwiched between the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, Glacier National Park and Blackfeet Reservation. Under former President Barack Obama, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewel canceled Solenex's lease in 2016. Solenex had sued the government in 2013 to gain authorization to develop its lease. In 2018, Leon ordered then-President Donald Trump's administration to reinstate the company's lease and permit. The administration, tribal groups and conservation groups continued to fight the lease, and Leon's 2018 order was overturned on appeal and remanded back to his court. The Badger-Two Medicine was once dotted with 47 drilling leases issued in the early 1980s. All other leaseholders either abandoned or accepted buyouts on their leases. Solenex remains the last leaseholder pursuing drilling. A broad coalition of groups opposed to drilling in the area joined the federal government in fighting Solenex's lawsuit. Represented by Earthjustice, a nonprofit specializing in environmental justice litigation, defendants include the Pikuni Traditionalist Association, Glacier-Two Medicine Alliance, Blackfeet Headwaters Alliance, Wild Montana, National Parks Conservation Association and The Wilderness Society. The Blackfeet Nation has filed briefs in the case opposing drilling. A 2022 University of Montana Public Land Survey found that almost 80% of Montanans want tribes to have greater control over public lands with cultural value, Earthjustice has noted. In his decision last month, Leon again found that the U.S. government properly issued the lease decades ago, and was acting arbitrarily and capriciously in taking so much time to revoke it. He dismissed claims that drilling would irreparably harm sacred aspects of the land, which is the home of Blackfeet creation stories, traditional food and traditional medicine. The Badger-Two Medicine also serves as an important wildlife connectivity corridor between the wilderness, park and reservation, and is a federally designated Traditional Cultural District. Tyson Running Wolf, a state legislator, outfitter and Blackfeet traditionalist leader who formerly served on the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council, stated after the ruling that Solenex fails to grasp the significance of the region. "This is a place where original creation still lives," Running Wolf said. "There are very few of those places left on this earth. The stakes here go way beyond a couple years of profit for some oil company. This is our inheritance and legacy were talking about. This is about our cultural survival as Blackfeet People." "The vast majority of lease holders voluntarily relinquished their leases in recognition of the outstanding natural and cultural values of the area," Earthjustice said in a statement after the ruling. "Some leaseholders sold their leases to third parties who then returned them to the federal government for permanent retirement ... the Department of Interior cancelled the small number of leases remaining and issued orders to refund the leaseholders purchase price and expenses associated with their lease." September's ruling represents a significant reversal in the push to banish drilling from the area. "We have had to overcome many setbacks throughout this nearly 40-year effort to prevent irresponsible energy development from these ecologically and culturally vital lands, Glacier-Two Medicine Alliance Executive Director Peter Metcalf said. "Yet despite the immense obstacles, weve managed to prevent any development and retire 46 other leases. The narrative is clearly trending toward protecting the Badger-Two Medicine and Im confident we will ultimately eliminate this final lease too." No one swept up the sawdust. Fuel Fitness members who pulled in for a Sunday morning workout in Butte described feeling both stunned and bummed by the businesss abrupt closing. At the Butte location on Harrison Avenue, sawdust remained from the workers who had installed sheathing over the windows and doors, leaving round cutouts for security cameras. It just sucks, said Chuck Wedlake, a longtime member. This was a good gym. Wedlake bemoaned the lack of prior notice from Fuel Fitness, which reportedly will continue to operate fitness centers in Bozeman, Billings, Missoula and Kalispell, according to a man who answered the phone at the Kalispell site. Fuel Fitness also has a workout center in Coeur dAlene. No one at the management level could be reached for comment Sunday. Brian Yates, a personal trainer, has worked at the Butte location for many years as an independent contractor. He said Sunday that he recently has had 47 clients in Butte. Yates said he learned about the closing Sunday morning and had been deluged with text messages. Had he seen or heard anything in recent weeks to suggest a closing was imminent? Zero. Nothing. This came out of nowhere, Yates said. They said they were going to expand and bring in new equipment. He and Wedlake both said the Fuel Fitness center in Butte seemed especially busy during the last six weeks. Gary Dryden was among a host of other members who drove to the Fuel Fitness gym in Butte on Sunday. Hed gotten the word about the closing but wanted to see the boarded up reality of it for himself. Signs posted on the sheathing read: Attention Fuel Members: We Regret to Inform You This Location is Permanently Closed. The sign listed an email for information: Butte@fuel406.com An email sent by The Montana Standard Sunday received no reply. Dryden said he was puzzled that Fuel Fitness continued to sign up new members in recent weeks. The company must have known that a closing was in the works, he said. Wedlake said Sunday he will alert his bank to stop automatic withdrawals by Fuel Fitness for membership fees. He shook his head. With a wry grin, he said he hopes to find another good gym soon. I can feel the weight coming on already, Wedlake said. The Helena location at 3336 N. Montana Ave. was closed as well. The parking lot was empty Monday morning. The windows were boarded up and padlocks were on the doors. "This location is permanently closed," a paper sign with a Fuel Fitness letterhead read. "For questions or if you are an existing member please email helena@fuel406.com." The phone mailbox was full and was not accepting messages. Zoominfo.com states Fuel Fitness Helena employs 11-20 people and has $1 million to $5 million of revenue. The Helena Independent Record contributed to this story. COPENHAGEN, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The COVID-19 pandemic cost the Danish government a staggering 119.8 billion Danish kroner (DKK) (15.8 billion U.S. dollars), with the majority of the funds used for financial compensation, said an analysis released by Statistics Denmark on Monday. The analysis of the state's public spending during the pandemic, covering a period from the beginning of the first quarter of 2020 to the end of the first quarter of 2022, revealed that 68 percent of the funds, or 81.5 billion DKK (10.7 billion dollars), were spent on financial compensation provided through general or industry-specific compensation schemes. In addition, a total of 4.6 billion DKK (604.9 million dollars) was spent on a variety of targeted initiatives aimed at specific industries as well as the social sector. In contrast, direct expenses related to the health emergency, such as the "use of protective equipment, testing and vaccination efforts and treatment," totaled a sizable but smaller 33.7 billion DKK (4.4 billion dollars), according to Statistics Denmark. Specifically, a total of 17.8 billion DKK (2.3 billion dollars) was spent on "testing effort" while the treatment of COVID-19 patients costs 1.7 billion DKK (223.6 million dollars). The remaining expenses covered the purchase of protective equipment, which totaled 5.5 billion DKK (724 million dollars), and vaccination efforts, which totaled 6.4 billion DKK (842 million dollars), it said. At the annual shareholders meeting for Richmond Jet Center and Aero Industries, the papers that President Michael Clarke hands out are likely to end up with rings from the water glasses and stains from dinner. Thats because the annual meeting that state law requires is also a family gathering. Its hosted by the parents of the third generation of Clarkes Michael and his cousin Robbie the two who now run the two companies. The Clarkes, both second and third generation, have managed to soar over an obstacle that often defeats family-owned businesses. They do things the way multi-generation family businesses have to do: finding the right way to mix family ties and business responsibilities. The Clarkes style includes an annual meeting that looks like the kind of evening out at a restaurant that any close-knit family enjoys and its a lot like every other Clarke family get-together, too, even when the formalities of a stockholders meeting arent on the agenda. Most family gatherings, were talking shop anyway, Michael said. Shop means working on planes. Richmond Jet Center and Aero fuel and provide on-call maintenance checks as well as de-icing and lavatory services for airlines at Richmond International Airport, including American Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit and Breeze. They do the same work, as well as all of the scheduled maintenance work federal rules require, for corporate jets and small private planes. The companies trace their roots to 1946, when Michael and Robbies grandfather, John H. Clarke, heard there were opportunities in Richmond from a brother-in-law who had been posted by the Federal Aviation Administration to then-tiny Byrd Field in Henrico County. Since then, Richmond Jet Center and Aero have twice been through one of the biggest issues family-owned businesses face: what to do about the kids. An overwhelming majority of family firms do not survive past the third generation, said Izabela I. Szymanska, who teaches management at Saginaw Valley State University and was a consultant for a major worldwide study of family businesses by Big 4 accounting giant KPMG International. The main challenge is first making sure that theres a real and genuine interest in the family business to continue from one generation to the next, said Mark Green, co-founder of the Pacific Family Business Institute and a business professor at Seattle University. The challenge is particularly heightened moving from the second to the third generation, he said. Our world today is filled with choices, he said, and thats often unlike what the second generation may have experienced when You did what your parents did in the past because you didnt have options. For the Clarkes, the question of interest didnt arise: The third-generation cousins, like their dads and grandfather, are really into aviation. John Clarke, whose fascination with planes led him from pumping gas to working at Beechcrafts Wichita, Kan., plant, headed east with a plan to sell and install radios on light planes at the time, still a new idea though they had made flying airliners and military aircraft much safer than they once were. From that, it wasnt a big leap to think about installing auto-pilots or the kind of constant speed propeller that boost a planes lift by letting the pilot change the angle that propeller blades chew the air on small planes. Things grew from there. By the 1980s, when Michaels dad, Jon Michael Clarke, and Michaels uncle Robert Clarke took over the fixed base operator business theyd developed, servicing airplanes at Richmond looked so lucrative that big national players moved in. At one point, the Clarkes were scrambling for business in competition with a CSX subsidiary, a subsidiary of Piedmont Airlines and Figgie International, an Ohio-based Fortune 500 conglomerate. There were some lean times, Michael said. But we stayed and they left. A big reason: While Richmond Jet Center and Aero are profitable, it is probably a more modest profit than a Fortune 500s stockholders look for. For us, its about the legacy we want to continue, Michael said. Interest started early for the third-generation cousins. I started out here probably when I was 10, sweeping hangars, you know, in the summer, Michael said. As an older teen, he worked on the airport ramps, fueling planes. After college, he came back to work in what at the time was a 10-person-strong back office staff. Youd have a truck sheet and that truck sheet would lead to the batch sheet and the batch sheet would lead to the daily sales sheet and that would lead to the sales book and that would lead to the general ledger, he said. And all those numbers had to match, and add up correctly. It was a lot of reconciliation, he said. My dad was the math guy; my uncle was more hands-on, he said. Now, Im the numbers guy, and Robbie is the hands-on guy. At the time, the companies had two offices, one on the north side of the airport, the other at mid-field. After Michaels first few years with the company, his dad asked if hed like to take over as general manager of one. His dad was still the boss, with clear ideas about how the business should run. Id have my own ideas and tell my dad, Michael said. He might say, Well, Ive done that, but go ahead and you try and see what happens. Its a lot more complicated than the gas station that Michael and Robbies grandfather worked in back in the Midwest. Airlines insist on a cushion of at least three days worth of fuel on hand the Clarkes usually aim for four or five days but the family has to be able to quickly bring in more fuel when an airline might call to say its low on supplies elsewhere and planning to make up for it with unscheduled fill-ups in Richmond. Responding isnt just a question of calling the fuel terminals in Richmond and Chesapeake, either. Finding drivers and jet-fuel configured trailers can be a challenge. Sometimes the terminals, too, need to ask Richmond Jet Center if it can take on extra fuel because of unexpected movements in the interstate pipeline. Typically, the older generation is looking for some clear sign that a person is ready for the next level of responsibility. ... From the younger generations perspective, the main challenge is that Mom or Dad is unwilling to loosen up on the reins, Green said. Thats why lots of communication and trust makes a transition go more smoothly. But it can also be a problem not getting a clear read on why the next generation is working in the family business in terms of they want to be there versus they have to be there versus they feel obligated to be there versus this is their only option, he said. For the Clarkes, performance is anchored in a tradition that saw their grandfather show up at work even when their grandmother had to drive him, or the way their dads would come in after a 2 a.m. call for fuel or other service. It means handling flammable fuel, maintaining a safety track record, doing maintenance checklists and keeping to the tight deadlines airlines need, Michael said. If theyre a minute late, thats a problem for them, he added. A focus on legacy means the third-generation cousins havent seen the tensions that often strain businesses, such as when operations managers butt heads with bean counters, or when one wants to invest in equipment and the other doesnt. We know what the state of the business is. We talk about what some new equipment for the shop might mean, talk about what itll cost, talk it through and come to a decision, Michael said. So when Breeze said it was launching service between Richmond and San Francisco, they knew theyd need some changes. Flying to Charlotte, N.C., for instance, is an 800-gallon trip San Francisco, youre talking 3,000, 4,000, 5,000 gallons, Michael said. That meant deciding to buy a larger fuel truck, and they arent easy to find, he said. It meant working closely with Breeze to figure out when its planes might need the Clarkes on-call maintenance team: Shifts and schedules for some of its 50-odd employees had to change. Some have worked for the company for decades. There are guys here whove known me since I was 6, Robbie Clarke said. Above all, it meant good news for the airport. We were here when it was just Byrd Field, and weve watched the airport grow, Michael said. We want to be here as it keeps growing. Dunlap Law PLC is pleased to announce that Claire Guthrie Gastanaga has joined the firm as a partner. A respected legal advocate who served as Executive Director of the ACLU of Virginia, Inc., and the ACLU Foundation of Virginia, Inc. from 2012-2021, Gastanaga will advise clients in the non-profit and small business sectors on governance, certification, and employment law issues. Highlights of Gastanaga's exemplary career include serving as the first woman Chief Deputy Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Virginia and serving as Chief of Staff and Special Counsel for the Speaker of the House/Virginia House of Delegates. In 2019, Virginia Lawyer's Weekly named her a Leader in the Law. In 2016, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Corporation for National and Community Service and Office of the President of the United States. Also, Dunlap Law has hired attorney Anna Flewelling. She will focus on helping business owners with employment and labor law issues. Learn more at dunlaplawplc.com. Kalela Williams has been named the new director of the Virginia Center for the Book, Virginia Humanities announced Monday. The Virginia Center for the Book, located in Charlottesville, is an affiliate of the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress. The center works across the Commonwealth to unite communities of readers, writers and artists, and is the home of the annual Virginia Festival of the Book. Williams, who earned an undergraduate degree in English from the University of Mary Washington and a masters degree in creative writing from Goddard College, has served as director of writing for Might Writers, a Philadelphia organization. She also has directed public programming initiatives of the Free Library of Philadelphia. Williams previously was assistant director of the Furious Flower Poetry Center at James Madison University. I am thrilled to return to Virginia, and to be a part of the transformative conversations that books open up for us all, Williams said in a media release. It will be exciting to engage with fellow Virginians from every corner of this state through our upcoming Festival of the Book, and our Centers many other amazing offerings. One of the casualties of the devastating fire in Tappahannocks quaint historic district in July was George Jennings art studio, which was destroyed along with other buildings along Prince Street. Now, a painting of the art studio, created years ago by another artist, is being used to raise money to rebuild that section of Tappahannock. Soon after the fire, artist Debra Howard, who lives in Maryland and Michigan, sent a note of encouragement to the Tappahannock Artists Guild, writing, This breaks my heart, but saying she planned to return to Tappahannock for the next plein air painting event. She included an image of the painting she had made of Jennings studio more than three years ago. The painting inspired the Tappahannock Artists Guild to seek permission from Howard and the patron who purchased the painting to make fine-art prints of the painting and auction them. Each print was handcrafted by landscape photographer Hullihen Williams Moore. Calling the fundraiser Fighting Fire With Fire/Rebuild Prince Street, the guild is auctioning 10 prints, signed and numbered, throughout the month of October. All money raised through the auction of the prints will be donated to the Town of Tappahannock and the Tappahannock Main Street Organization for the cleanup and rebuilding efforts for Prince Street. To find out more, visit tapparts.org. The fast-moving fire destroyed buildings on a stretch of Prince Street along with adjacent structures on Water Lane. In all, several businesses were displaced, including a furniture store, a cafe, a real estate office, a hair salon and Jennings studio. Four families who lived in apartments in the affected structures also were displaced. Over 100 firefighters from more than a dozen other jurisdictions battled the blaze. Water had to be pumped from the nearby Rappahannock River. The damage was estimated at $2.5 million by Essex County officials. Jennings, 79, is a retired architect-turned-artist who, in addition to his painting supplies and decades of architectural records, lost about 100 framed paintings in the fire, including those that were on display in the cafe next door. Seeing Howards painting of his studio again is pretty emotional for me, Jennings said, because he remembers well the night she painted it. It was in the spring three years ago at a local plein air event; plein air is a 19th-century style of painting outdoors. I walked from the house over to the studio to paint, which I did most nights, and I noticed she was sitting there with her pickup truck backed up to the sidewalk and she had her easel sitting in front of her, and she was painting the studio, Jennings recalled. I spoke to her and told her I was going to be painting inside if it wouldnt mess up her painting, and she said that would be great. Jennings remembers it as a very casual, very relaxed occurrence. He had no idea it would become so meaningful a few years later. Her painting reminds him how great [the studio] was. The rubble has been cleared from the fire, and the land where his studio stood is perfectly level. Its ready for something to be done, he said. Following a sentencing hearing that began Sept. 7 and was continued on Monday in U.S. District Court in Richmond, Judge Robert E. Payne sentenced Angela House, 43, to 21 months on her earlier guilty plea of making false statements in the acquisition of a gun from a licensed firearms dealer. He gave her an additional five months, to be served concurrently, for abetting the possession of a firearm by a felon. Payne agreed with federal prosecutors that House should be sentenced under enhanced federal sentencing guidelines the range nearly doubled because she obstructed justice by lying to police about purchasing the gun for Kite and then attempted to cover up the crime by destroying evidence. This is not your run-of-the-mill straw purchase, Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Miller told the court. After learning that Kite was killed by police on Jan. 14, 2021, after firing at officers, House initially started unsending messages with Kite on her Facebook account, and then later deleted the entire thread of conversation once she realized law enforcement was investigating her purchase of the gun for Kite, argued Miller and Assistant U.S. Attorney Janet Jin Ah Lee. Unbeknownst to House, the messages she deleted from her Facebook account did not simultaneously delete her messages from Kites Facebook account. Federal authorities subpoenaed Kites account and discovered the incriminating messages between [House] and Kite regarding the straw purchase of the firearm for Kite and [Houses] interest in and ultimate knowledge of Kites criminal record, prosecutors said. She was fully aware he was a convicted felon, and she was on notice that he may very well be a violent person, Payne said in comments from the bench. According to the governments statement of facts, Kite sent House a Facebook message on Dec. 31, 2020, that he needed a person thats not a felon to buy me a legal pistol. Kite was a felon with multiple convictions and could not lawfully purchase or possess a firearm. To Kites message, House responded, where I gotta go? and the two discussed the transaction as well as Kites criminal record. During the course of the Facebook messages, House sent Kite a screenshot of a message she received from a friend. The message warned House to be careful with Kite, telling House that Kite had seven felony burner charges, a slang term for gun. After sending the screenshot to Kite, House added, Damn 7 burner charges, and Go ahead Killa. Kite then clarified his record, stating, Seven ha this my [sic] fourth gun charge I got two grand larceny of firearm and one poss of a fire arm [sic] and this one pending. He then sent House two photos of court documents for pending charges in Chesterfield, including one for possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon. That should have set off all kinds of alarms, Miller told the court. Nevertheless, House still agreed to buy Kite a gun and, on Jan. 1, 2021, they went to Cabelas, a federally licensed firearms dealer, in Henrico County. There, Kite instructed House to buy a Kimber Micro 9 mm semiautomatic pistol, and House filled out the required paperwork for the purchase of the gun that included the Federal Firearms Transaction Record, Form 4473. The record is used by firearms dealers to determine if the buyer is lawfully permitted to purchase a gun. Culpeper man gets 30 years for sexually assaulting Chesterfield business employee on school bus A Culpeper man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for abducting an employee of a Chesterfield County business last year and sexually ass The person buying the weapon must certify that they are the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm. House certified that she was the actual buyer when, in fact, she knew Kite was the person for whom the gun was being purchased. Because of Houses false representation, Cabelas was prevented from determining the actual buyer, and that misrepresentation was intended to deceive the dealer, prosecutors said. After obtaining the gun, House turned the firearm over to Kite, and it was recovered from his possession after he was fatally shot by officers during the Jan. 14, 2021, confrontation. Kite used the gun to fire two rounds at officers as they attempted to arrest him on criminal charges at the end of an 11-hour standoff at his home in the 17100 block of Lansmill Drive. Two officers then returned fire, discharging 47 rounds into the bottom of a captains bed where Kite was hiding. He was struck 24 times and killed. Five days after the fatal standoff, House knowing investigators had the gun she had straw-purchased for Kite called Chesterfield police and concocted a false story about how it came into Kites possession. House said she bought the gun for herself and normally carried it in her car. But on the day of Kites fatal confrontation with police, she claimed she had to pick up her infant granddaughter and didnt want the gun in her car with the toddler. She claimed she went into Kites home and hid the gun in the closet of his bedroom, prosecutors said. Prosecutors noted that in addition to learning that Kite was a violent felon, House was also aware he was a drug dealer. During the course of the investigation, authorities learned from friends and associates that Kite was selling methamphetamine. They found cryptic Facebook messages between Kite and House that detailed a negotiated drug transaction between the two on Dec. 26, 2020 five days before Kite asked her to buy him a gun. The judge denied Assistant Public Defender Nia Vidals motion for a downward variance in Houses punishment, noting that all of Houses issues a troubled upbringing, several physical ailments and alleged mental health problems did not add up to a reduction. He echoed Millers earlier argument that Houses crime was not a run-of-the-mill straw purchase. I apologize to the court, House said when given the opportunity to speak. Im not a bad person at all. It's difficult to know where to start this morning. I've been reflecting all weekend, and my heart is heavy for the people in Florida. It will take years for many to get their lives back to some point where they resemble how things were before. Hurricane Ian was one of the biggest, most impactful hurricanes I've covered in my nearly 20-year meteorology career. I may never see another storm that quite compares -- at least I hope I don't. I spoke with Robbie Berg, a forecaster at the National Hurricane Center who made many of the forecasts for Ian -- and who's worked through this storm with a similar dread. "I'm one of the forecasters directly making the forecast. It's a different kind of gut-wrenching because you put all your effort communicating what could happen based on the forecast, and you know what could happen if that forecast comes true," Berg said. The National Hurricane Center worked around the clock to get the best forecasts out and they did it with incredible accuracy. Looking back at the forecast, the landfall location, Cayo Costa, was in the forecast cone for all the forecasts given, according to CNN meteorologist Brandon Miller. Miller also noted that the forecast pegged Ian's landfall (as a major hurricane also) within 5 miles of its eventual landfall location a full 120 hours in advance -- that's pretty remarkable given how unreliable forecasts can be at the five-day mark and beyond. But we know that the cone, by definition, is not meant to include the impacts, only where the center of the storm will be. With Ian, as with many storms, the impacts are felt well beyond the center. "Look at the storm as a whole. What's your risk of getting heavy rain? Or, what's your risk of getting a strong wind or storm surge?" Berg said. "We're really trying to clear the message to what's really most important, despite if the cone is shifting a little bit or speeding up or slowing down, you know? What is it that most people really need to be paying attention to with the storm?" With Ian, it's clear that the impacts were the storm surge and rain. The size and power of this storm pushed a wall of water into the vulnerable, low-lying coast of Southwest Florida -- and was quite far-reaching, away from where the eye came onshore. And the rain that accompanied this slow-moving storm was historic. Ian's impacts will be remembered Ian ranks third when it comes to the amount of rain that fell within a tropical system. Harvey takes the number one AND two spots for the two days of rain that fell on Texas in 2017. Berg explained that for Ian, their confidence in the storm's intensity was very high. They knew this storm would become a major hurricane in the Gulf -- and it did. The track, however, was trickier. "The track forecasts, in this case, were a little more challenging. But that type of forecast is always tough when you have a storm essentially paralleling a coastline. Landfall can occur within a large area just based on the hurricane's angle of approach to the coast," Berg explained. Berg has been a forecaster at the hurricane center for 20 years. He knows the forecasts he makes have a tremendous impact on the decisions of everyday people and how the impacts are interpreted. "When you're writing those discussions, so many people are going through them with a fine-tooth comb, to get the messages. You're really trying to make sure that what you're saying is clear, it makes sense and it gets the most important points across because whatever goes in those discussions is not just going to be read by people, it's going to be amplified and echoed by you guys in the media, or their users," said Berg. "We're setting the tone and the message for these events." He's reflecting on what happened during Ian just as much as we all are. "It's very difficult to hear the stories and see the pictures from southwest Florida and other areas impacted by Ian, but those same stories and pictures are what make us ask, What can we do better next time?" Moisture from Ian still causing trouble across the Mid-Atlantic Ian just won't go away. It is partly responsible for what's happening across the mid-Atlantic this week. There's an area of low pressure sitting stationary just offshore of the mid-Atlantic states that is going to keep conditions breezy and wet to start the week. "The heaviest rainfall will be concentrated around the Chesapeake Bay east over the Delmarva Peninsula, with totals over the next couple of days generally around 1-2 inches, and locally higher totals of 3+ inches possible," the Weather Prediction Center said. This push of onshore winds is causing coastal flooding for over 20 million people from Long Island to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. "Potentially one of the highest tides in past decade" is possible later in the day on Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, Virginia. Some locations around Hampton Roads and Virginia Beach could see extensive flooding and their highest water levels in 5 to 10 years, according to the NWS. The reason for this excessive coastal flooding is a combination of the coastal low pressure system and moisture left over from Ian. A strong area of high pressure is just sitting around the Great Lakes -- so the high pressure and low pressure are working together to make for extremely windy conditions. A dozen gauges are expected to reach major flood stage at high tide Monday afternoon over coastal Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina. Water is expected to be 2 to 3 feet above ground level in some areas. "Severe flooding will extend inland from the waterfront and shoreline, flooding homes and businesses, and isolating some neighborhoods. Numerous roads will be impassable under several feet of water and cars submerged.", the NWS added. Wind advisories and heavy surf advisories are also in effect over much of region with wind gusts up to 50 mph, along with 8-12 foot waves battering the coast. The flooding event should peak Monday afternoon during high tide, but with the coastal low expected to linger, the threat for flooding will continue through Tuesday. The-CNN-Wire & 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved. The Virginia National Guard said Monday that soldiers and equipment are staged on the Eastern Shore and Hampton Roads in anticipation of possible flooding tied to Hurricane Ian. Brig. Gen. James W. Ring said the Guard is in contact with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. Guard members typically transport first responders, remove debris, help people get to safe locations or distribute food or water, among many tasks. We are extremely proud of the rapid response of our personnel to get high water transportation capabilities in place where it could be needed, and the VNG will remain on duty as long as possible flooding and high winds are expected, Ring said. As always, we are very thankful for the continued support of families and employers which is absolutely critical to mission success. Henrico Indian restaurant vandalized with racist graffiti For 27 years, this has been home. Nobody has ever displayed that kind of anger or hate to us, said restaurant owner Tony Sappal. The Virginia Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team has also been put on alert. The Black Hawk helicopter is equipped with a rescue hoist and transports technicians from the Chesterfield County Fire and Emergency Medical Services SCUBA Rescue Team. The Guard initially staged about 60 soldiers and airmen at locations in the Abingdon, Roanoke, Richmond and Virginia Beach areas for possible severe weather response operations related to Hurricane Ian. Most of those forces stood down Sunday as conditions improved. Forecasters projected the storms onshore winds could pile even more water into an already inundated Chesapeake Bay and could cause the most significant tidal flooding event in Hampton Roads in more than a decade. Norfolk and Virginia Beach declared states of emergency as they watched to see how bad Mondays high tides would be. Parents and teachers call it time out, and now Virginias prisons are trying the same approach when inmates attitudes and behavior suggest trouble is coming. The Department of Corrections is opening what its calling Cool Down rooms, meant to give inmates space and up to four hours by themselves if they are having problems with another inmate or if they need time alone amid emotional distress, such as when learning of a death in the family. The pilot program has started at nine prisons Bland, Keen Mountain, Pocahontas, Red Onion, St. Brides, Wallens Ridge, Green Rock, Augusta and River North and the plan is to phase in Cool Down spaces in four to five sites at a time in the months ahead. The department expects to have Cool Down rooms in all its facilities by the spring. Defusing negative behaviors that may accelerate in the short term is the primary objective of the pilot, said department spokeswoman Carla D. Lemons. It could be any one of a thousand situations that may result in the inmates being moved to Cool Down, allowing an inmate to reflect and self-de-escalate. Inmates can ask to go into a Cool Down space, and prison staff may also refer an inmate for any sort of behavior that interrupts the operations of the facility, she said. They stay for up to four hours. A Cool Down room can be used to keep a situation from escalating to the point of becoming dangerous, Lemons said. So far, 85% of inmates who have spent time in a Cool Room have returned to general population. The other 15% head for segregated housing away from other inmates because their behavior worsens and authorities believe it will disrupt the prison. In Virginia, prison staff allow inmates in segregation to leave their cells for at least four hours a day, seven days a week. This is more time than what the American Correctional Association defines as restrictive housing, when inmates are separated in a cell for an average of 22 hours a day for 15 or more days in a row. There were 364 inmates in segregation as of June 30, or 1.4% of the total in Virginias prisons. The percentage is the same as the year before, while the average time of 11.4 days spent in segregation was down 4.4%, with 14% of inmates released within five days. However, 30% of inmates in segregation were there for 30 days or more. The separate special housing units for inmates with mental illness, medical issues or who were otherwise vulnerable if in general population held 388 prisoners as of June 30. Thats down 23% from the year before, as the department closed one pod. The need for these beds declined because of a hold on transfers during the pandemic, and there are enough open beds to service any more inmates who may need such housing, Lemons said. The chill remains across central Virginia on Tuesday, with afternoon temperatures about 20 degrees below normal. Clouds and a chilly breeze continue with a few small showers passing through, but a prolonged rain is not expected. Like Monday, afternoon temperatures will hover around 55 degrees, which is a more typical low temperature for the first week of October. The reason for the chill is a stalled area of low pressure that continues to spin just east of the Delmarva Peninsula, driving cool air southward. Steering winds will not push it farther offshore until Wednesday, which will allow Richmonds temperatures to creep closer to normal. This leaves Thursday and Friday as the warmest days of the next seven, with temperatures surging into the middle to upper 70s. The sun will be out for those couple of days, giving Virginia a good chance to dry out from the rain, clouds and chill that have dominated since Friday. Cool, dry air returns for the weekend, holding highs in the 60s on Saturday and Sunday. Both days look sunny, so it will be good weather for many of the fall festivals across the state. The cool, dry air also allows temperatures to drop further at night, well down into the 40s this weekend. Even some upper 30s are likely in the more rural locations away from urban centers in central Virginia, and a couple of spots of thin frost are certainly a possibility, but it does not look cold enough for a legitimate freeze. Record lows this weekend are in the lower 30s, and that still looks a little out of reach. The cool spell will be just for the weekend, as afternoons will return to the 70s for Monday and the first few days of next week. Looking back at Ian Much continues to be made about the precision forecasting of Ian as it came ashore in southwest Florida last week. At the large scale, the forecasting was strong, but as the idiom suggests, the devil was in the details. The idea of a landfall somewhere on the west coast of Florida became apparent about three days ahead of time, but the level of precision most people wanted was not available until about 36 hours ahead of landfall. Much is made of the forecast cone and the center of the storm, as they are both important starting points, but impacts with any hurricane extend dozens of miles away from the center. On Monday morning ahead of landfall, there was great concern about metropolitan Tampa Bay, and with good reason. At that time, it appeared to be at greatest risk of a landfall Wednesday night or Thursday morning. Given the population density there and the length of time since a major hurricane had hit, the messaging took on a life of its own. But even on Monday morning, there was a lot of uncertainty on precisely where the center would make landfall, making a huge difference in the storm surge and wind impacts. In retrospect, that message should have gotten more attention. The storm surge is worst to the immediate right of where the storm makes landfall, with respect to the direction the storm is traveling. Winds are counterclockwise around a hurricane, so this is where the wind pushes most of the water against the coast. And while the eye of the hurricane is calm, the circle immediately around it, called the eyewall, is where the winds are the strongest. In those last 36 hours, it became clear that the landfall would be south of Tampa Bay, meaning winds would be offshore there. This is why you may have come across scenes of a muddy Tampa Bay, as the offshore winds effectively blew the bay water back out into the Gulf of Mexico. But it is wrong to say that the hurricane was unpredictable. Hurricane forecasting is a constant series of updates as new data becomes available, but even on Monday night as it was crossing Cuba, it was obvious that Louisiana and Texas had nothing to worry about. ATHENS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Greece is open to a meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Prague, Czech Republic, later this week, Greek government spokesperson Giannis Oikonomou said here on Monday. Turkiye is one of the non-European Union (EU) countries invited to attend an informal meeting of EU heads of state and government scheduled to be hosted in Prague on Oct. 7 by the Czech EU Council Presidency. Relations between Greece and Turkiye have long been tense over a series of issues, including maritime and energy disputes in the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Lately, the two sides have exchanged strong remarks over a number of incidents. Roanoke Countys new director of economic development will be coming from her present job in a suburban Atlanta community. The county said Monday that Megan Baker of Peachtree City, Georgia, will take over the office Oct. 24. She will succeed Jill Loope, Roanoke Countys longtime economic development director, who in July announced her plan to retire. Baker brings with her extensive experience in business attraction and retention, marketing, and budget, policy and data analysis, the county said in a news release. Baker currently serves as president of the Fayette County Development Authority. She has led the business attraction and retention programs for Fayette County and spearheaded development of a 600-acre business park. Fayette County, situated southwest of Atlanta, is among the states fastest growing localities. Its current population of nearly 100,000 has doubled since 1990. Prior to her role with the FCDA, Baker was Policy Director at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce where she led economic and demographic research and analysis for Georgia 2030, the Chambers strategic initiative. Bakers additional experience includes strategic and budget planning roles at Clayton State University, the Georgia Governors Office of Planning and Budget, and the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. I am thrilled to be selected to serve as the Director of Economic Development for Roanoke County, said Baker. I look forward to becoming part of the team and building upon the work thats been done to position Roanoke as a top place to live and do business. My husband and I are excited to become part of the community. Baker is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council and has served as a board member of the Georgia Economic Developers Association. She holds a bachelors of science in chemical engineering from North Carolina State University and master of public affairs from Indiana University. She is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute. Loope will assist with Bakers transition, the county said. After the transition is complete, Loope will head the countys tourism department until next July, when she will officially retire. Bakers salary will be $125,000, the county said. On Sunday, Oct. 9, at 3 p.m., Floyd County will resound with two keyboards, each with seven octaves, as four hands press 176 keys 104 of them white and 72 raised-black when Virginias Blue Ridge Music Festival sponsors a concert titled From Bach to Gershwin, featuring Maestro David Stewart Wiley and Professor Erica Sipes. Maestro Wiley is music director and conductor of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra. Sipes serves on the faculty of Radford University as a collaborative pianist (accompanist to use the familiar but inadequate word). The concert takes place at the Floyd Event Center, 188 Eco Village Trail SE (718 Franklin Pike Road SE) in Floyd. Tickets are $16 in advance, $20 at the door. Students may attend free, so why not bring a few young ears? To order, please go to VBRMF.org. - Submitted by Randall A. Wells, VBRMF Board Member A Roanoke County Circuit Court judge sentenced a South Carolina truck driver Monday to six months in jail for an Interstate 81 crash that claimed a life in February 2021. Craig Jerry Lee Wilson, 46, of Bethune, South Carolina, was charged with reckless driving after his tractor-trailer was involved in wreck that killed Andy Himes, 62, of Spring City, Pennsylvania, and injured Himes wife on March 29, 2021. State police reported that the Himes minivan was slowing for traffic when it was struck by Wilsons rig, causing the van to hit a charter bus. Wilson was indicted on a felony reckless driving charge in December. According to court documents, he turned himself in to law enforcement. In April of this year, the court amended the charge, making it a misdemeanor. Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Nathaniel Griffith said Monday that during Wilsons plea hearing in April, a video of the accident that was recorded by Wilsons dash camera was played for the court. In that video, the prosecutor said, Wilson can be seen messing with something on the dash of the rig, which drifts out of its lane before Wilson corrects it. Griffith said Wilson continued to be distracted by something in the cab, and Wilsons rig drifted out of its lane at least one more time before the driver corrected his travel again, just before the crash occurred. Wilson testified Monday that he had been a professional tractor-trailer driver for 22 years prior to March 2021. Griffith argued professional drivers need to be held to a higher standard, given the training required to command a commercial vehicle. The prosecutor asked Judge Charlie Dorsey to consider sentencing Wilson to one year in jail and suspending his privilege to drive in Virginia for six months. Wilsons lawyer, Patrick Kenney, asked Dorsey not to sentence his client to any active time in jail. He said the horrible case was caused by a rather small action that has big consequences. This is a matter of seconds, Kenney told the court. This isnt a long period. Drivers who regularly travel the section of northbound I-81 where Wilsons crash occurred know that there are frequent slowdowns at that very spot, Kenney continued. Mr. Wilson did not know that. The fatality occurred just north of the I-81 northbound interchange (exit 137) with Virginia 112 (Wildwood Road) west of Salem. Beyond that exit is a steep incline with an entrance ramp at its crest where traffic congestion often occurs, particularly when heavy tractor-trailers are in the mix. The defense attorney respectfully described Wilson as just an everyday Joe American who was trying to support his family, adding that his client accepts his responsibility for Himes death and has been cooperative with the court, not missing a single court date. Kenney said he didnt think time in jail for Wilson, who otherwise has a clean traffic and criminal record, would be productive. We dont think that is just based on who Mr. Wilson is, Kenney said. I dont know what the utility would be at this stage. Wilsons sister testified Monday that her brother felt really, really terrible about the vehicle accident. We understand death in our family, she told the court. He truly, truly and sincerely apologizes. Wilsons sister said he has had trouble sleeping since the crash, and his body often shakes. His hands trembled throughout Mondays court proceedings. Himes brother and son listened to the proceedings through an electronic video call. While on the witness stand, Wilson turned to face the laptop hosting the call. I am so sorry, he to the victims family. I apologize to you for the loss of Andy. I dont think your statement of remorse is insincere, Dorsey said. The judge said he was sure the weight of Himes loss had been hanging over Wilson, and he also expressed sympathy for the Himes family. What we do here will never square with any of that, he said. But I cant just say, Alright. It wont matter. Dorsey sentenced Wilson to one year in jail with six months suspended, leaving six months of active time to serve. He also suspended Wilsons operating license for six months. When he heard the judges decision, Wilson, who had been shaking and leaning on a table for support, collapsed into a chair, then wept. I hope things get better for all of you, Dorsey said, and the court recessed. PEARISBURG A Clifton Forge woman pleaded guilty Monday to the remaining charges she faced after abducting a 2-year-old from a Giles County church nursery during services last year. Nancy Renee Fridley, 46, already pleaded guilty in July in Giles County to abduction and child abuse or neglect, charges stemming from the May 2, 2021, disappearance of toddler Noah Gabriel Trout. In Alleghany County, Fridley pleaded guilty in February to possessing drugs, a charge filed after authorities swooped in a day after Noahs abduction and recovered him, without physical harm, at the residence of Fridley and her boyfriend. On Monday, Judge Lee Harrell convicted Fridley on two charges of attempted abduction that came from events earlier on the day that she took Noah. Fridley is to return to Giles County Circuit Court on Dec. 7 to be sentenced on all of her Giles County charges. She faces a maximum punishment of 25 years in prison, Commonwealths Attorney Bobby Lilly said after Mondays hearing. Harrell noted that Fridleys pleas were made with no recommendation regarding sentencing. For her Alleghany County drug charge, Fridley received three years of supervised probation and a suspended term of incarceration. In court Monday, Lilly repeated an account given at a previous hearing of how several years prior to Noahs abduction, Fridley twice told her boyfriend, Bobby Lee Taylor, that she was pregnant with his child, that she gave birth while he was incarcerated, and that each time the Virginia Department of Social Services took the child before Taylors release. These pregnancies and births were completely fictitious, Lilly said. Fridley admitted having had a hysterectomy that would have made pregnancy impossible, Lilly said. Around March or April 2021, Fridley told Taylor and neighbors that she was about to regain custody of her and Taylors sons Bobby Jr. and Christian, Lilly continued. The couple bought car seats, toddler beds and other child-related items. On May 1, 2021, Fridley told neighbors that she would get one of the children the next day. Fridleys attempted abduction charges came from her visits early on May 2, 2021, to two Giles County churches: New Valley Fellowship and Mountain View Church, both in Narrows. At both churches, Fridley went to a childcare area and said that she was there to pick up a child, Lilly said. Staff members would not release a child to her, however, Lilly said. Fridley then went to Riverview Baptist Church in Ripplemead, where she was able to take Noah. Soon she and Taylor, 44, were introducing the boy to neighbors in Clifton Forge as Bobby Jr. Earlier this year, Taylor was found guilty in Alleghany County of abduction and of possessing drugs. He has a sentencing hearing scheduled for Oct. 11. The New River Health District will offer free seasonal flu vaccines at a special drive-thru dispensing clinic from noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the NRV Fairgrounds, located at 5581 Fair Grounds Circle in Dublin. Vaccines will be available free on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to wear clothing that is loose around the arm so that a public health nurse can administer the shot in the upper arm, without having to leave the comfort and convenience of your car. Influenza is a serious disease that affects the respiratory tract. It is highly contagious and generally spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can be transmitted even before symptoms appear. A person usually becomes sick one to three days following exposure. Typical flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza and its potentially severe complications, said Dr. Noelle Bissell, director of the New River Health District. This unique drive-thru approach is proven to be a fast and efficient way to vaccinate a large number of folks in a short time. It is especially important to get a shot this year because COVID is still circulating, and getting infected with both flu and COVID can increase the severity of illness. All persons age 6 months or older should be vaccinated against influenza each year. Particular effort should be made to vaccinate people at higher risk for influenza complications, including: Pregnant and postpartum women, or those who will be pregnant during the influenza season (generally early fall to late spring). Persons over 65 years of age, including residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. People who have chronic lung or heart problems, including asthma. People who have other serious medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, anemia, cancer, weak immune systems (including those with HIV) or a seizure disorder. Health care workers and those who live with people in a high-risk group should also receive an annual flu shot. Travelers to countries outside of the U.S. may also need to consider influenza vaccination, even at different times of the year. Each year in the U.S. approximately 200,000 people are hospitalized due to flu illness, and flu-related deaths range from 12,000 to 56,000 each year, averaging 34,000 per year over the past three decades. Based on data from the southern hemisphere, health officials expect this to be a more severe flu season than we have had the past few years. Receiving an annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of becoming sick with the flu and spreading the virus to others, said Dr. Bissell. When more people get vaccinated, less flu can spread through the community. It takes up to two weeks to develop the vaccines full protection. To minimize your risk of contracting or transmitting the flu, follow these simple steps: Get vaccinated. Consider wearing a mask if you are high risk, or if you are having symptoms. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds. Cover your cough, either by using a disposable tissue or coughing into your sleeve, not your hand. Stay at home when you are sick. For more information, call the New River Health District at 540-585-3300 or visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/flu/. Submitted by Linda Scarborough CHRISTIANSBURG An entirely new structure is being considered for the long discussed relocation of Montgomery Countys magistrates office and court services. Engineering and architectural firm Thompson & Litton showed conceptual drawings this past week for a single-story building that would go in the space currently used as parking for the Montgomery County Jail. The relocation of the magistrates office has long been sought due to concerns among some local officials, particularly county Sheriff Hank Partin, over the possibility of incidents such as prisoner escapes and ambushes on arresting officers. And plans for a new court services home were lumped into the entire project. The magistrates office, currently located in a county-rented facility on Franklin Street in downtown Christiansburg, is where the initial decision is made to either set bail for an arrestee or require them to wait behind bars for their court date. Court services, located on the corner of Radford Road and Depot Street, houses functions such as the filing of child and spousal support. Despite years of discussion, the relocation project has yet to occur as county officials have grappled with issues such as costs and historic preservation. Theres also the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of which has effectively led to delays on several county projects. The county once appeared to move forward with a nearly $1.5 million plan to refurbish the old sheriffs office on Franklin Street and move the magistrates and court services into that building. But supervisors have shown increased interest in a new structure for those two functions. Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Sherri Blevins said shes long advocated for security and safety not just for county personnel, but also the general public and law enforcement officers when it comes to the relocation project. She said components of the recently shown plans appear to address those points. Blevins pointed to portions of the drawings showing a sally port, as well as a secured parking lot for the magistrates office. The sally port is a type of enclosed and more secure structure that would aim to prevent problems such as prisoner escapes. The drawings from Thompson & Litton show the structure effectively creating a connection between the magistrates office and jail. Im all for moving forward with this, Blevins said during the discussion. The roof to the building seems like it could also present opportunities for environmentally friendly components, another supervisor said. This one, at a cursory glance, looks like it could be very well positioned for solar [panels] without a lot of obstructions, said Supervisor April DeMotts. Another point supervisors and Thompson & Litton highlighted is how the plan would aim to meet the countys needs for at least the next two to three decades. Following the presentation, supervisors voiced consensus for staff to move forward on work to provide more exact cost estimates and more formalized plans on the project. The plan shown by Thompson & Litton would involve the removal of the old sheriffs office building, as well as the attached structure that once housed the dispatch center. The county has already razed the Phlegar building, another historic structure that previously existed in that area. Deemed to have had too many health and safety issues, that building had long been targeted for demolition as part of the relocation project. The current parking lot also has 100 spaces, but the plan would trim that amount by almost 40 fewer spots, Thompson & Litton said. Supervisor Todd King said hes still a supporter of renovations if theyre feasible. Im just a firm believer of renovations, if we can make them safe, he said. Im also a believer in saving taxpayer money, as long as we can do it safely for staff and everybody. Thats all I got to say. The Roanoke Times asked the 11 candidates seeking election or reelection to the council questions about the idea of returning to a ward system, and about whether the school board, currently appointed by the council, should be elected by voters, as happens in almost all Virginia localities. City voters rejected a referendum on a ward system in 1997, and a handful of efforts to get an elected school board referendum on the ballot have failed in recent years. Below are the candidates answers to a series of questions, listed by last name in alphabetical order. Some passages have been edited for grammar, spelling or brevity. Early voting is underway in the council election, which will conclude with polling-place voting Nov. 8. Nine of the candidates are running for three council seats. The Democrats in that race are incumbents Joe Cobb and Vivian Sanchez-Jones, in addition to Peter Volosin. Republicans running are Dalton Baugess, Nick Hagen and Maynard Keller. Running as independents are David Bowers, Jamaal Jackson and Preston Tyler. Also this year, voters will decide a special election to fill the remaining two years of the term of former Councilman Robert Jeffrey Jr. Running in that race are Democrat Luke Priddy and Republican Peg McGuire. Q: More than 20 years ago, Roanoke voters chose not to approve a ward system to elect city council members. The topic still comes up from time to time. Should such a system get serious consideration again? Why or why not? Baugess: Out door-knocking I have met many people from all parts of the city. One thing I have learned, different areas of the city have different concerns. Everyone is concerned about crime and how it is taking Roanoke down a wrong path. But people in northwest have a different problem from people in southwest. I think it makes sense for Roanoke to look at a ward system, as this would give equal representation throughout the city. Bowers: I never have been a fan of a ward system for Roanoke City Council. I think that, with the exception of the current council one-party majority, Roanoke has done well with electing candidates, independents, Republicans and Democrats. I have long been in favor of moving the council elections to the fall, but believe that coinciding our city elections with the national election is a mistake because it nationalizes our local election, and local issues get drowned out in the noise of national issues. I would propose moving the city elections to coincide with state elections, as I believe Roanokes interests are more closely tied to Virginia issues, than with Washington issues. Cobb: I fully support the at-large system in electing our city council and mayor. I believe it is imperative that members of our city council understand and represent the whole of our city our people and their diverse perspectives, our assets, our challenges, our vulnerable places and people, our residents disproportionately impacted by specific issues and histories, and a culturally competent and sensitive approach to setting priorities that will contribute the growth, health and wholeness of our city and region. To best do this, our current at-large system of electing council members and the mayor requires our council members to connect with and more deeply understand every part of our city, including our rich diversity of people and resources, and how best to galvanize the potential for our city. In addition, I believe we can strengthen our commitment to raising up leaders in our city who understand the vital importance of local government and the essential responsibilities of the council which include setting strategic vision; representing our constituents and advocating for their ideas and needs; being stewards of our resources; being thoughtful, discerning and prepared decision makers to effect transformative and equitable policy; working collaboratively with city management to deliver essential services to the community; being community builders who show up, engage with citizens, attend events, support local causes, and advocate for growth in our city and region; and provide guidance and oversight to our four appointed personnel city manager, city clerk, city attorney and municipal auditor. Hagen: Yes, a ward system should get serious consideration again. It is disheartening that many parts of the city seemingly get forgotten because council members focus their attention on where the votes are for their next election or only where tax revenues are high. I believe in real and fundamental change for Roanoke. All of Roanoke. In order to produce more equitable outcomes in our elections, we need to take a serious look at a ward system. However, we do also need to be cognizant of the communitys concerns when developing where the wards begin or end. Should Roanokers feel I should serve, if we can create a fair and just ward system I would support it, even if doing so would cause me to lose in the next election because we need accountable leaders that represent our communities. Jackson: Yes, I am in favor of a ward system in Roanoke. Having two council members representing each zone of the city and one at-large mayor would show a diversity across the city and a fair representation of all people. This not only shows fair representation, but it also means a stronger accountability to the smaller demographic of which each council person is responsible. Serving at large spreads council members thin and seemingly their goals go unaccomplished. Keller: From 1996-1997 I was a member of Roanokes Modified Ward Task Force. We spent many months talking to citizens and researching having some type of ward system. The mayor and vice-mayor would be at-large, while the rest of Roanoke City Council would be represented by ward. We found that a ward or district system had many advantages including better representation for all areas of the city. It could also reduce the cost of running for Roanoke City Council, since a candidate would be representing only a part of the city. I believe that 90% of this report is still valid today, and that a ward system would be beneficial to Roanoke. McGuire: Absolutely, a ward system is needed in Roanoke. Roanoke used to have a ward system, but it was done away with in the early 1900s when Jim Crow laws took hold throughout the South with the blessing and encouragement of President Woodrow Wilson. Roanoke moved to an at-large system so that our African-American, Syrian and Lebanese citizens would not have a voice on council. Every neighborhood should have representation on council. This keeps issues hyperlocal and Roanoke can avoid getting thrown into the whirlwind of national politics and trends. Southeast neighborhoods have different challenges and needs than northwest or northeast neighborhoods. Its easy to gloss over important issues and neighborhood concerns. Priddy: No. I have concerns about how a ward system could lead to situations where a neighborhood has their interests represented in a particular person, but not the institution or in the outcomes of decisions made by city council. Lets take development as an example, a particularly relevant hypothetical without naming a specific neighborhood or project. In a ward system, a majority of voters in a district could elect a representative who campaigns against a proposed development. That representative could then honor their pledge and vote against it, but the measure could have a greater chance of passing because the other elected officials do not directly represent that neighborhood. If I am elected, I intend to represent the interests of everyone in Roanoke. I believe that voters should continue to have the ability to directly hold every member of city council accountable, not just the one representing their neighborhood. Sanchez-Jones: I believe that any time our citizens have input on how the government should function and how they are represented we should listen to what they have to say. I personally dont believe that a ward system would work equitably for our community without increasing the size of our council and costing taxpayers significantly more to carry out the same functions it does with the size of the current council. Tyler: With the ward system I believe if its done right it can be a great thing. Right now how our city is divided, I think it would not be a good thing. Some parts of the city would have more representation than others. Now if it was an equal set of council seat for each section then we certainly should look at it. Volosin: There are pros and cons to the ward system that have been debated for quite some time. I believe that electing the city council at large is the better method. Roanoke is a diverse city and it is important to understand issues that affect each part of the city. In a ward system, council members represent certain areas, which can lead to a system of council people competing for resources for their ward, instead of working together for the city as a whole. It also means that council people might listen more strongly to what is going on in their ward and less likely to work in a more cohesive manner to ensure all parts of Roanoke are doing well. On the other hand, a ward system is better at ensuring there is representation from folks across the city on council and not a concentration of voices from one area. While this is a valid argument, I believe that at-large elections are the better option. Q: Roanoke and Salem are two of a few localities in the state that appoint school board members. Should Roanoke switch to an elected school board? Why or why not? Baugess: I think Roanoke needs an elected school board. Parents need to have a say and their childrens education. By having a appointed school board there is no accountability. But having an elected school board do you have accountability and parents have a say in their childrens education. Parents need to know what is going on with their childrens education. Bowers: I do not favor an elected school board for our city. Bringing politics into the decision-making of our students education just doesnt seem to me to be a good method and except for these COVID-19 years, a great appointed city school board in the last decade made certain that every school in the city was accredited and our graduation rate rose from an abysmal 56% (as I remember) to a phenomenal 90% (if I remember correctly). Cobb: I fully support our appointed school board and the process city council uses in identifying, interviewing and selecting qualified, diverse, altruistic, selfless and excellent citizens who work collaboratively with city council to mutually support our students, teachers, staff and administration in developing equitable pathways for educational success for all of our students. An appointed school board centers our children, not politics, and assures commitment to our childrens educational growth, through engaged leadership with students, parents, teachers and administration, a strong, collaborative working relationship with city council and upfront commitment of city funding to our schools through a 40% base formula, and a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in expanding opportunities for our children and their families. The new Roanoke City Public Schools Equity in Action Plan is a pathway to continued growth and success. Hagen: I believe in accountability and I believe that if something isnt working and shows no signs of improving, it is insane to keep trying to do the same thing and expecting different results. Our citys schools are failing. This is not some political hyperbole either. Our Standards of Learning passage rate has plummeted over the last year. Roanoke City Schools are the only one in our region which has seen a dramatic decrease in our SOL passage rates since the pandemic. We are failing our children by not ensuring they are receiving the best education they can. As such, I believe that this lies squarely at the hands of the majority of Roanoke City Council (as council currently appoints members to the school board). The school board has no incentive to be accountable to the people because they arent answering to the people. Due to all of these reasons, I am in favor of an elected school board. Jackson: Just as I answered about the ward system, I also answer in regards to school board. There should be a level of accountability to the people that are being served. Officers for school board should not be a selection of favorites and personal friends that are appointed to serve our children as leaders with potential biases. The members of school board should be selected and elected by the by the citizens for a greater level of accountability. This should foster a stronger leadership team for our local school system. Keller: Accountability. An elected school board with a ward system can provide greater accountability, representation, and transparency for Roanoke city schools. With a total budget of over $292 million dollars, the school board needs to answer to taxpayers and parents for how this money is spent. Our children deserve high-quality in-person instruction. McGuire: Absolutely. Something as important as our childrens education should be accountable to the citizens directly and not through city council appointments. Our taxes pay for our schools. Citizens should have a seat at the table through an elected body. Priddy: Maybe is the answer I gave at the city council candidate forum hosted by the Neighbors in South Roanoke. Last year, I filed a petition to pose this question to the voters, but I fell short of the requirement to place it on the ballot. At the time, it was evident that the public wanted more input in the process of selecting who serves but, ultimately, I wanted to give voters an opportunity to answer the question for themselves. I stand by the idea of placing the question on the ballot for voters to decide, but given the harsh political climate surrounding school boards, Im not sure how I would vote on it. Regardless, I want voters to know that if I am elected to serve on city council, I will work to improve the appointment process, making it more open and fair for both the applicants and the people they intend to serve. Sanchez-Jones: The current system we have for appointing school board members ensures that qualified and invested candidates are the ones making decisions in our school system. Far too often elected school boards become politicized and our children are the ones who are left to suffer fordecisions made in the name of earning another vote. Tyler: I am a person who likes the appointment. Because that holds city council accountable for the actions of school board and keeps a close relationship with our schools and children. We build a better Roanoke by working together. Volosin: An elected school board is another issue that has been debated for years with many pros and cons. On this issue, I am for an elected school board if Roanokes citizens want it. While one of the largest cons for an elected school board is the fact that an elected school board requires campaigning. Citizens who would like to affect change in the school system might not run because of the costs of time and resources that not everyone can afford. On the other hand, there is more of a possibility for voices from some areas and backgrounds to be greater in number from one area over another. I believe that either method of selecting school board members is valid, but there has not been enough support for changing this selection method as of late. On council, I would appoint school board members from different areas on the city and diverse backgrounds. If they are not elected, then we as council people need to ensure there is a diversity of thought and perspectives on the school board. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." -- 1 Timothy 2:1-2 NEWS PROVIDED BY Alveda King Ministries Oct. 3, 2022 ATLANTA, Oct. 3, 2022 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Dr. Alveda King (photo), she is available for comment: While I no longer endorse political candidates, I do pray to God for guidance when deciding how to cast my votes. If I attend prayer meetings featuring candidates, or political rallies, such as Herschel Walker, I attend to lend moral support for issues, rather than to endorse candidates. I try not to make the mistake of voting according to favor or disfavor of the personalities of the candidates. I also do not vote in favor of political party lines. I vote my conscience. Instead of being party driven by my vote, I tend to agree with my uncle, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who said: "I don't think the Republican party is a party full of the almighty God nor is the Democratic party. They both have weaknesses ... and I'm not inextricably bound to either party." I also resist labels that box me in and prevent me from making prayerful decisions about my votes. Too many people fight over and defend current polarizing political labels of either being liberal or conservative; Democrat or Republican; and so on. Sadly, even attempts to play it safe or sensible by embracing the label "Independent" don't escape the vitriol of not choosing the "correct" party of choice; thus the ire and strife blaze on. There is no time to expound on how polarizing and divisive labels can be in this post. For instance, when people ask, "what is your zodiac sign?" some often answer, "I'm born under the sign of the cross." Or, when some are asked "what is your political party?" some reply "I vote Christian." Again, I digress; but should you have time, please read expanded versions on the topics of political, skin color, and race related labels that divide us here: Currently America is undergoing fever pitched strife and arguments over the upcoming elections. Some people seemingly are trying to separate their moral and spiritual beliefs from making decisions as to how to vote. For example: By taking cover behind the barricade of politics, which separates morality from reason, some are deliberately voting for candidates who support abortion up to nine months of pregnancy; even though those voters say they don't agree with full term abortions. A logical question would be "why vote for abortion candidates if you believe abortion is wrong?" This is surely a serious disconnect. While I no longer debate people over these or any political positions, I do "Pray for Spiritual Enlightenment, Justice and Integrity for 2022." As a Christian evangelist, I "know my lane," which is the prayer lane. I pray over the governments of the world and over the nations. Here in America, there are still many who believe "in God we trust." As an African American woman, born in America over 70 years ago, I pray that we will remain or become one nation under God. I vote Pro Life and I pray for every candidate. In the prayer lane, I am not employed by any political party nor any political campaign. I pray for myself and everyone that "the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints" -- Ephesians 1:18 KJV We should not invite God out of the voting booth. We need to pray and vote for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; for every human being; for human dignity; from the womb to the tomb into eternity. A serial killer may have ambushed five men in central California separately in recent months, shooting them to death alone in the dark, and police are baffled as to why the victims were targeted Weekend round-up of stories from incarceration nation | Main | Not much for sentencing fans as SCOTUS starts a new Term and releases first big order list October 2, 2022 "State Constitutionalism and the Crisis of Excessive Punishment" The title of this post is the title of this new article available via SSRN authored by Robert J. Smith, Zoe Robinson and Emily Hughes. Here is its abstract: The institutional site of responsibility for Americas mass incarceration crisis represents one of the most important and undertheorized barriers to reducing excessive punishment in the United States. While mass incarceration is frequently presented as an American crisis, with more that 113 million Americans impacted by the criminal justice system, this Article argues that mass incarceration is not a national issue, but instead a local issue. Ninety percent of the people in Americas prisons are confined under state laws, procedures, and norms created by state legislative and executive branches, and thirty-seven individual U.S. states have an incarceration rate higher than any country other than the U.S. itself. While there exists a growing popular and scholarly movement attempting to address the political intractability of mass incarceration, this Article argues that missing from the debate is the role of state courts and state constitutions. Drawing on two burgeoning movements the movement to end mass incarceration and the re-emerging significance of state constitutionalism this Article argues that state constitutionalism is critical for curbing the excessive punishment regimes that drive mass incarceration. The Article evaluates state courts quiet divestment of independent state constitutional interpretation in the years following incorporation, outlining the unique issues posed by constitutional unitarism for limiting excessive punishment. Motivated by recent developments in state courts, the Article highlights the growing support for, and potential of, independent state constitutionalism for preventing excessive punishments and addressing the mass incarceration crisis. In doing so, the Article offers a path forward, sketching a doctrinal trajectory for state courts to use when interpreting their state constitutional provisions limiting excessive punishments that respects federal developments while also capturing the localism of criminal law and ultimately emphasizing the potential of state courts as transformative institutions in reducing mass incarceration. October 2, 2022 at 08:00 PM | Permalink Comments Translation: Since the federal Constitution will now be interpreted by a SCOTUS majority that more consistently adheres to the text, best to shift to state venues where there's a better chance of pro-criminal free lancing. Posted by: Bill Otis | Oct 3, 2022 12:20:37 PM Best place to start would be to prohibit by law in each state the imposition of sentences by wild and crazy judges of sentences beyond 90 yeas. Talking about 400, 500, 45, etc., etc. Some counties of some states are riddled with hang 'em high crazed judges who do these things regularly. It's so obviously cruel and unusual punishment. Need more evidence? Look at the sentencings in other countries for similar crimes. Second, look at the sentencings in the same county, state, country (ours) from 40 years ago. It's easy to see that it's gone completely out of control and these judges (and DAs) don't worry a bit about the over-incarceration crisis they are creating. Time to stop that. Prohbit. Forbid. It's blatantly a violation of the 8th Amendment. Always has been. Posted by: restless94110 | Oct 4, 2022 1:46:21 PM restless -- I would have no objection to a statute capping all prison sentences at 90 years. Anything beyond that has no practical utility and is showboating. Posted by: Bill Otis | Oct 4, 2022 2:11:37 PM Bill - I would go further and cap prison sentences at 30-40 years with the exception of a very small sliver of criminals (serial killers, terrorists) who would qualify for death sentences. Posted by: Brett Miler | Oct 4, 2022 2:31:16 PM Post a comment MADRID (Reuters) - British telecom group Vodafone has agreed to buy Portuguese rival Nowo from Spanish operator MasMovil as part of an expansion plan in the country. Nowo is the fourth largest operator in Portugal with about 250,000 mobile phone clients and 140,000 clients for fixed telecom services, Vodafone said in a statement released on Friday. The deal is to be finalised in the first half of 2023, Vodafone said. The transaction is worth about 150 million euros, Spanish newspaper Expansion reported. An official at MasMovil said the estimate is accurate. The deal is part of a wider consolidation process in the Iberian peninsula where MasMovil, owned by buyout funds KKRN>, Cinven and Providence, is in the process of merging with the local unit of French operator Orange to create the largest operator in Spain in terms of clients. (Reporting by Inti Landauro; editing by Jason Neely) A man being vaccinated at a coronavirus disease vaccination centre in Singapore. (Reuters file photo) SINGAPORE All of the 130 people in Singapore who received incorrect doses of COVID-19 vaccines did not experience adverse reactions or have recovered uneventfully. These and other figures were revealed by Senior Minister of State for Health Janil Puthucheary in Parliament on Monday (3 October). Of them, 11 were overdosed while the remaining 119 were underdosed. Seven were children aged between five and 11, who did not have any adverse reactions. The remaining adults either had no adverse reactions or recovered uneventfully, said Dr Puthucheary. The figures accurate as of 26 September were among some 16 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines administered in Singapore in total. Responding to questions from several Members of Parliament about safeguards in place to prevent incorrect dosing, Dr Puthucheary said additional rules stipulating eligibility criteria, dilution and administration of the recommended dosage for each vaccine have been issued specifically for COVID-19 vaccination. All providers under the National Vaccination Programme are licensed and regulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH). In the event of a vaccine administration error or a medical emergency following vaccination, the relevant providers are required to report to MOH no later than three hours after the incident. Providers also need to inform patients immediately when a vaccination error has occurred, and monitor their health with daily calls for the next seven days. MOH will investigate the error and if there are any systemic issues are found, it will work with providers to review and improve their work processes, Dr Puthucheary said. His comments come less than a month after two adults were given undiluted Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 COVID-19 vaccines at a clinic in Hougang under the ProHealth Medical Group. One of them was hospitalised due to a headache and increased heart rate, while the other did not report any adverse reactions. Each undiluted vial is equivalent to six 0.3 ml doses of the vaccine. Story continues The clinic and doctor who administered the vaccine have been suspended from the national vaccination programme until further notice. MOH is currently investigating ProHealth Medical Group for the incident and will take appropriate enforcement actions if there were any regulatory breaches, said Dr Puthucheary. "The vast majority of the clinics and vaccine providers do a great job of ensuring that the patients are cared for safely, the vaccines are provided safely with the correct dosage," he added. Dr Puthucheary also noted that data suggests that it is "not likely" that such incidents arise from systemic procedures in the overall vaccination process. "(The) vast majority of our doses have been delivered quite safely. Nevertheless, MOH continues to review all of this," he said. Separately, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said in Parliament on Monday that as of 30 June, 2,100 people have been exempted from COVID-19 vaccination-differentiated restrictions due to adverse reactions to the vaccines. Among them, the observed rate of deaths was around two in 1,000, compared with 0.3 in 1,000 for the whole population, he added. Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube. LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) England finished its first tour to Pakistan in 17 years with a thumping 67-run win in their Twenty20 decider on Sunday to clinch the exciting seven-match series 4-3. Dawid Malan (78 not out off 47 balls) smashed his first half century of the series and Harry Brook hit an unbeaten 29-ball 46 as both profited from three dropped catches in Englands strong total of 209-3. Pakistan, which won the toss and chose to field, was effectively out of the chase once the usually prolific opening pair of captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan departed within the first two overs. Pakistan finished on 142-8. Babar, who dropped both Malan and Brook, gave a regulation catch at cover in Chris Woakes' first over and Reece Topley clean bowled Rizwan off a full-length delivery. No. 3 Shan Masood fought a lone battle with 56 off 43 against well-disciplined England pacers with Woakes (3-26), David Willey (2-22), Sam Curran (1-27) and Topley (1-34) all chipping in with wickets. Brilliant game today, we played really well from the start, said England captain Moeen Ali. The batters put up a very good score and I thought our bowling was outstanding in wet conditions. We had two must-win games, to come back and win them is good to see. Regular England T20 skipper Jos Buttler didnt play a single game on tour and continued his rehabilitation on an injured calf. Englands opening pair of Phil Salt (20) and Alex Hales (18) once again provided a brisk start of 39 before both fell in the space of three deliveries in the fifth over. Hales was pinned leg before wicket by Mohammad Hasnain, one of the four changes Pakistan made from the team which lost the last game by eight wickets on Friday. Salt couldnt beat a strong direct throw from Shadab Khan and was run out after Malan refused a single and stood his ground at the strikers end. Ben Duckett hit a breezy 30 off 19 balls before he was run out by Rizwan who clipped the bails after the ball bounced in front of him off Ducketts bat but England continued to score more than 10 runs an over in the first half of the innings. Story continues Sloppy Pakistan fielding let both Malan and Brook combine in a beefy and unbroken 108-run stand off 61 balls as Babar dropped both batters in their 20s before Mohammad Wasim also couldnt grab an opportunity after Malan had completed his half century. Our fielding was not up to the mark today and when you drop crucial catches of set batters, you are bound to struggle, Babar said. Haris Rauf, who was rested in the last game, bowled well in the death overs to finish with 0-24, but fast bowler Mohammad Wasim cost 0-61 Pakistan's third most expensive figures in a T20 international. We couldn't execute our plans in the field and credit goes to England for fully capitalizing, Babar said. Malan hit eight fours and three sixes while Brook smashed four sixes and a boundary as Wasim conceded 20 in the last over which lifted England to its second highest total of the series. Pakistans middle order had struggled throughout the series and once again couldnt cope up with the pressure after both Babar and Rizwan were dismissed early. Willey missed a skier off his own bowling which could have ended Iftikhar Ahmeds knock before he found the outside edge of the right-hander as Pakistan slipped to 33-3 inside the batting powerplay. England strangled Pakistans struggling middle-order through pace as Pakistan never looked to challenge a strong total. Masood, who hit his second half century of the series after making his T20 debut at Karachi, fell against Woakes when he was brilliantly snapped by a diving Adil Rashid at short third-man in the penultimate over of the innings. England will return to Pakistan in December when it plays a three-test series. ___ More AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports Sunday was a great night for understudies at the Orpheum Theatre. Victoria Madden and William Aaron Bishop stepped in as Anya and Dmitry in the touring production of Anastasia and made the audience believe theyd been playing the roles for years. Their strong voices and effective costumes helped sell the story of two con artists and a young woman trying to convince the Dowager Empress her long lost granddaughter, Anastasia, was still alive. Based on the hit animated film, this Anastasia was expanded to give it a bit more historic significance and excise a magical Rasputin and his sidekick Bartok. In their place: a general for the Bolsheviks named Gleb (Ben Edquist, who also had a great voice and would make a super Che in "Evita"), who has his own reasons for maintaining the status quo. The stage version originally directed by Darko Tresnjak is more adult than the film and has glimpses of the music Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens wrote for Ragtime. Six songs made the transfer from film to stage; many others are opportunities for characters like Countess Lily (Madeline Raube) and Vlad (Bryan Seastrom), Dimitrys partner, to get laughs. Both actors handled the assignment well, but its clear this Anastasia has had some padding. More impressive? The high-def set, which (thanks to what must be a gigantic screen) can turn into Paris in the springtime, Russia in the winter (always in the winter) and every other location in summer and fall. Created by Alexander Dodge, the scenic design was the perfect solution for touring productions who dont want to unpack truckloads of set pieces every night. It worked as hard as the actors. Madden, going from street sweeper to royalty was particularly adept at changing with the scenery. She got that signature song, Journey to the Past, and sang it with gusto. Paired with Bishop, she made In a Crowd of Thousands a new highlight. Bishop, who initially looked like he might be in a company of Newsies, came to life when he was in play with Seastrom. The two conjured plenty of stage teams, until the latter went full Rooster to Raubes Lily. Those theatrical callbacks (from Annie to Phantom) must have been writer Terrence McNallys way of making something like this (which doesnt seem like a hummable show) accessible to folks who love musical theater. The plot dragged during the second half (and, oddly, included a ballet scene that was good but unnecessary) and could have been sharpened so the storys true message could resonate. Gerri Weagraff, as the Dowager Empress, had enough gravitas to make her moments work and just enough thick skin to make it seem like it wasnt a slam dunk. A good start to the 2022-23 Broadway at the Orpheum series, Anastasia may not be as accessible as Cinderella, but it suggested theres royalty in everyone. Its just a matter of bringing it out. The new member of the court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, wasted no time joining the lively give-and-take, asking questions throughout nearly two hours of arguments in the dispute over the nation's main anti-water pollution law, the Clean Water Act. Jackson, appointed by President Joe Biden, seemed to be generally aligned with the court's other two liberal justices in favor of Justice Department arguments to preserve the authority of the federal government to regulate wetlands under the Clean Water Act against a business-backed challenge. Several conservative justices were more skeptical of the regulation in a case that tests the reach of the Clean Water Act beyond rivers, lakes and streams. Under an opinion written by retired Justice Anthony Kennedy in 2006, regulators can require permits before allowing development on properties far from waterways as long as they prove a significant connection to the waterways. Kennedy, who retired in 2018, was in the courtroom to hear some conservative justices appear to agree with the lawyer for an Idaho couple that Kennedys opinion was vague and unworkable. Chief Justice John Roberts was unsatisfied by Justice Department lawyer Brian Fletchers explanation of how to translate Kennedys opinion into practice. What does that mean? Roberts asked at one point. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch, who once was a law clerk to Kennedy, also appeared inclined to side with Chantell and Michael Sackett, who have wanted to build a home close to Priest Lake in Idaho for 16 years and won an earlier round in their legal fight at the Supreme Court. The justices heard arguments for the first time since issuing a landmark ruling stripping away womens constitutional protections for abortion. And for the first time in two and a half years, since the court closed in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, the public was allowed inside the courtroom, although the court is continuing to provide live audio of arguments on its website. The courts overturning of the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade abortion decision is still reverberating in legal fights over state abortion bans and other restrictions. But a new stack of high-profile cases awaits the justices. Several cases the court has agreed to hear involve race or elections or both, and the court has also agreed to hear a dispute that returns the issue of free speech and LGBTQ rights to the court. Also hanging over the justices is some unfinished business from last term: the leak of a draft of the abortion decision seven weeks before it was formally announced. Chief Justice John Roberts ordered an investigation, but the court has yet to provide an update. Jackson also joins the court at a time of declining public support for the court. Polls following the courts abortion decision have shown a sharp drop in the courts approval rating and in peoples confidence in the court as an institution. A poll over the summer found 43% of Americans saying they have hardly any confidence in the court, up from 27% earlier in the year. Other significant cases include a controversial Republican-led appeal that could dramatically change the way elections for Congress and the presidency are conducted by handing more power to state legislatures. Theres also the case of a Colorado website designer who says her religious beliefs prevent her working with same-sex couples on their weddings. Next month, the justices will hear a challenge to the consideration of race in college admissions. The rapper formerly known as Kanye West is offering to buy right-wing friendly social network Parler. The announcement comes shortly after West was blocked from posting on Twitter and Instagram for antisemitic posts. West, who is legally known as Ye, was locked out of Twitter and Instagram a week ago over antisemitic posts that the social networks said violated their policies. In one post on Twitter, Ye said he would soon go death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE, according to internet archive records, making an apparent reference to the U.S. defense readiness condition scale known as DEFCON. The potential purchase of Parler would give Ye control of a social media platform and a new outlet for his opinions with no gatekeeper. SOUTH SIOUX CITY -- A $77 million, 20-acre veteran-centric development is being planned in South Sioux City. Veterans Victory Housing and Small Business Center, described in a press release as a campus where veterans can "live, work and play," is a 500,000-square-foot facility spread across eight buildings. The site is adjacent to the recently built RiverPointe apartment development in South Sioux City. R Perry Construction, which has built a number of multi-residential buildings in the area, is the general contractor on the project. Six buildings on the campus will house 300 apartments. Another two buildings will be used as a small-business center and a nonprofit center, said Kim Kuhle, founder of Veterans Victory, the for-profit developer behind the project. Roughly 40,000 square feet of the campus will be set aside for veteran-owned businesses and the nonprofit resource center, according to a press release. Kuhle told the Journal Monday that anyone can apply to live at the apartment complex, though the campus is calibrated to the needs of veterans. "We welcome the veterans, and there will be any number of programs that can help veterans," she said. Veterans Victory also has a similar project in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Residents will have available to them on-site financial education, small business training, collaboration and networking opportunities, according to a press release, in addition to physical therapy, mental health services, yoga, hiking trails and social events. Groundbreaking is planned for February, with a target completion date for some of the apartments in December 2023. The project would add significantly to South Sioux City's housing stock, which, in common with many other places in the U.S., has lagged behind the community's needs. Private funding for the project was made possible by the "Opportunity Zones" program -- lower-income or economically distressed census tracts where tax incentives are available to developers -- which was created under the 2017 federal tax-code rewrite, Kuhle said. Before Judge James Daane Lise Rene Church, 58, Sioux City, second-degree arson; sentenced Sept. 29, deferred judgment, two years probation. Brendan Alex Aduddell, 27, Sioux City, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance; sentenced Sept. 29, deferred judgment, two years probation. Brandon Michael Keleher, 41, Sioux City, possession of a controlled substance -- third offense (habitual offender enhancement); sentenced Sept. 29, 15 years prison suspended, three years probation. Nathopolis Gerryl Williams, 36, Sioux City, possession of a controlled substance -- third offense; sentenced Aug. 25, five years prison. Before Judge Jeffrey Neary Charles Junior Rowland, 29, Humboldt, Iowa, possession of a controlled substance -- third offense; sentenced Sept. 20, five years prison suspended, five years probation. Anthony Joseph Braunger, 29, Sioux City, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance; sentenced Sept. 26, deferred judgment, three years probation. Elisha Lenise Dobbins, 34, Sioux Falls, eluding; sentenced Sept. 26, deferred judgment, three years probation. Sharon Lynn Paramo, 42, Sioux City, second-degree theft; sentenced Sept. 28, five years prison suspended, two years probation. Kennedy Danyel Phillips, 23, Sioux City, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, operating while intoxicated -- second offense, assault on a peace officer, failure to appear; sentenced Sept. 27, 10 years prison. Dillon Spreng-Smutzler, 27, Sioux City, forgery, possession of a controlled substance -- third offense; sentenced Sept. 23, five years prison suspended, two years probation. Darris Roddy Austin Jr., 52, Sioux City, forgery, third-degree theft; sentenced Sept. 23, five years prison suspended, two years probation on forgery charge, 30 days jail for theft. Jesse Dean Helt, 30, Sioux City, operating while intoxicated -- second offense, possession of a controlled substance -- third offense (two counts), eluding; sentenced Sept. 23, five years prison suspended, two years probation on possession charges, 10 days jail on OWI, eluding charges. National Prayers Focus on Shutting Down Alabama Planned Parenthood Mega Facility American Life League's Marian Blue Wave Seeks Closure of Birmingham Abortion Location NEWS PROVIDED BY American Life League Oct. 3, 2022 FREDERICKSBURG, Va., Oct. 3, 2022 /Christian Newswire/ -- Throughout the month of October 2022, participants in the Marian Blue Wave prayer initiative will be praying for the protection of Alabama women and children. Those praying will focus on ending abortion and will direct particular attention to the Planned Parenthood mega center in Birmingham, the city known for its historic role in the America's Civil Rights Movement. In the 1960s, Birmingham was known for its segregation and racial discrimination. Today, the people of Birmingham are still targeted for abuse according to the American Life League, this time by Planned Parenthood. "The Birmingham, Alabama, Planned Parenthood is among the abortion giant's 34 mega facilities throughout the country. These huge abortion sites are usually constructed under the guise of neighborhood revitalization, near university campuses or bordering states that limit abortion. Each is over 10,000 square feet and can commit abortions on hundreds of women each day," shared Katie Brown, Director of the American Life League's growing Catholic movement to eliminate abortion. "While the SCOTUS ruling on Dobbs has once again returned abortion regulation to the states, we cannot ignore the fact that babies are still going to die," added Brown. "The end of Roe is the undoing of a grave injustice imposed on this nation for nearly 50 years, but in most states, abortion violence is still going to happenespecially in mega Planned Parenthood facilities." "Each month, our prayers have targeted the abortion facilities in a different state," Brown explained. "By leading with love and asking for our Blessed Mother to intercede for us, prayer is the most important next step we can take as we continue this fight to save precious lives. We pray God will bring about the closing of these Planned Parenthood facilities, we pray for the preborn babies whose lives are ended at these facilities, and we pray for the protection of teenagers who are lured to these facilities and ushered into lives of sexual sin." "The Marian Blue Wave has a prayer companion booklet that facilitates these prayers," added Brown. "Loaded with devotional thoughts and prayers from life-affirming Catholic priests, the booklet is a tool to guide pro-life Catholics in their commitment to pray for an end to abortion." Under Brown's direction, over its three-year existence, the Marian Blue Wave has gathered thousands of participants, representing all 50 states and 31 different countries, and is growing daily. The Marian Blue Wave is a call to Catholics throughout America to pray a weekly Rosary with the specific intentions of ending all types of abortions and shutting down every Planned Parenthood facility. The American Life League celebrates the third anniversary of its Marian Blue Wave in October 2022 and continues to invite Catholics across the nation to join the initiative. Brown explained that in addition to the focused prayers for these particular Planned Parenthood mega abortion facilities and the overarching aim of ending abortion throughout the nation, the specific goals of the Marian Blue Wave are to: Shut down every Planned Parenthood facility in the United States (Planned Parenthood is the largest provider of abortions in America) Shut down all other abortion facilities in the United States Change the hearts of Catholics who advocate for or promote abortion in any way "We have been fighting abortion politically for over 40 years, and nothing has changed. The Marian Blue Wave focuses on the true evil behind abortion, and rallies people together to fight that evil with our most powerful weapon The Holy Rosary," said Brown. Brown believes that dedicated prayer will "refocus the fight against abortion from politics, to putting our faith back in God to end the deep-rooted evil of abortion." Learn more about the Marian Blue Wave, join the movement, and find resources for participation at marianbluewave.com. About American Life League The American Life League has been part of the pro-life abortion debate from its inception. Since 1979, the American Life League has committed to the protection of all innocent human beings from the moment of creation to death with a pro-life integrity that stands up for every innocent human being whose life is threatened by a "culture of death." For more information visit all.org. SOURCE American Life League CONTACT: Tom Ciesielka, TC Public Relations, 312-422-1333, tc@tcpr.net WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Kenny Rader just wanted a few pieces of glass from the broken doors and windows of the U.S. Capitol, thinking someday they might be worth a little money as a memento from a historic day. But as soon as he stepped inside the door and to the side while other rioters rushed past him, he says he knew he didn't belong there. "I walked in, I got the glass," Rader said. "From that point on I got the feeling that this isn't right. When I held that glass in my hand, I had the worst epiphany that this is wrong." He admitted as much Thursday before a federal judge, who sentenced him to 90 days in prison for entering the Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection. Now awaiting word from the U.S. Marshals Service on when he must report to prison and free to speak with reporters about his experiences that day, the Sioux City man says he was in Washington, D.C., to protect others who, like him, believed the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Donald Trump and that his supporters would be attacked. "I believe to this day people went there for a just reason, but somewhere along the way, things went wrong," Rader said. Rader's trip to Washington was on-again, off-again and back on at the last moment. But his dissatisfaction with the election began building months before the insurrection. Rader says he'd never been a political person, and couldn't even vote for much of his life because of numerous felony convictions that landed him in and out of prison for 30 years. He'd long admired Trump dating back to the 1980s, when the New York businessman was often in the news. "I always thought he'd be a good president," Rader said. After Trump declared his candidacy for the 2016 election, Rader quickly was on board and became eligible to vote prior to the election. "I'm not a Republican," Rader said. "I'm an anti-elitist. I don't like the corrupt elite. Trump was the first person to say he was going to do something about it." After Trump was elected and his presidency progressed, Rader said he watched the media and others continually attack Trump. After Trump was acquitted following his 2019 impeachment, Rader said he believed "they" would try something else to remove Trump. He believes that next action was the COVID-19 virus, which he called a conspiracy with China to release a biological weapon in the United States. He watched as election officials changed voting laws to increase use of mail-in ballots because of the pandemic as the 2020 election neared. "I could see them laying the groundwork to cheat in the election," Rader said. "I knew there was no way in hell Joe Biden could come close to winning an election against Donald Trump." Rader says he became obsessed, researching election fraud and other political conspiracies he learned of through Facebook and other social media platforms. He would later realize he shared many of the same views as believers of QAnon, the conspiracy and political movement that believes, among other things, that a silent group of people, including top Democrats, are operating a global child sex trafficking ring and conspired against Trump while he was in office. When Biden was declared the winner of the election, Rader burned an American flag, posting video of it on his Facebook page. He delved deeper into conspiracy theories about a stolen election and looked into joining a militia, but said he was denied because of his felony convictions. Two weeks before Jan. 6, a social media contact forwarded him a flier for Trump's "Stop the Steal" rally in Washington on the morning Congress would be convening to certify the electoral college results. Rader initially planned to go with a friend, who left Sioux City without him after never getting a solid commitment. Late into the night on Jan. 3, Rader sat in his home, pondering the potential violence he believed might await him in Washington. He faced a life-or-death decision. "I came to the decision that this is bigger than me. If I die, I die." Rader said he believed, as the FBI wrote in court filings, he was heading to a civil war. But he was on his way to help protect those attending the rally from antifa and Black Lives Matter groups many in his circles believed also were coming to Washington to attack them. "Yes, I believed I was going to a civil war. Not that we're going to start it, but I was going to defend it," he said. He set out alone in his car early on Jan. 4, making contact with his friend and agreeing to catch up with them, but they lost contact along the way. The following day, Rader hooked up with a group of four who were headed to Washington and told him he could stay with them in Rockville, Maryland, that night. At a hotel there, he met a group of eight or nine other men in the lobby who were much more similar to him in their beliefs and decided to go to the rally with them. The morning of Jan. 6, they boarded the Metro train to Washington. At each stop along the way, more and more Trump supporters got on. When they got off the train near the Capitol and came out of the underground station, Rader said he was shocked to see thousands of people of all nationalities and races, all there in support of Trump. He and his new friends walked to the Washington Monument, where they watched Trump give his speech on a large video screen. "This is where it gets nuts," he said. He noticed groups of people heading toward the Capitol, then started hearing what he thought were fireworks. "I asked a guy next to me what is it. He said they were concussion grenades. They're attacking the Capitol." Rader said he had to go get a closer look. "By the time I got there, the Capitol was surrounded." Rader wanted to get as close as possible and left his group. He approached the Capitol steps, where rioters were battling with police, and climbed some scaffolding for a better view. "It's like a war zone, wounded were being lifted back. It was the most intense thing I've ever been in." Once the rioters broke through, Rader followed them up the steps to the Capitol doors, already broken out, alarms sounding, where he spotted the broken glass on the floor inside. "I'm standing at the door, not believing with my eyes what I'm seeing," he said. "I didn't even think I was committing a crime." Deep down, though, he knew it wasn't right. "I felt it as soon as I went in," he said. Security video shows Rader, dressed in a blue Trump hoodie he said he bought from a street vendor that morning because he was cold, take a few steps inside the door, move to the side and pick up some glass from the floor. He stood near a wall, spoke with two or three other men and left three minutes later, going outside and watching the riot until darkness approached. When he heard the National Guard was on the way, he left, returning to his Maryland hotel, leaving for Sioux City the next morning. He arrived home on Jan. 8, knowing FBI agents nationwide would be on the hunt for him and others who had entered the building. "We knew they'd be coming for us," he said. Rader said relatives who are on the opposite end of the political spectrum from him reported his actions to the FBI. They didn't have to look far for evidence. Rader's Facebook page was full of posts from his trip. In September 2021, while Rader was on his father's patio grilling ribs, two FBI agents arrived and questioned him on the patio. He was later indicted and arrested on Jan. 20. Rader, 54, pleaded guilty in June to a misdemeanor charge of parading, demonstrating or picketing in a capitol building. Three other charges were dismissed in exchange for his guilty plea. He also was placed on three years' probation with the condition he continue substance abuse treatment. "I want you to do well, but I don't want you in 2024 to come back and do this again," Senior Judge Royce Lamberth told Rader at sentencing. Rader says he has no intentions on going back, and plans to attend Western Iowa Tech Community College after prison to obtain a journalism degree. He shouldn't have to return to Washington, anyway, he said. A self-proclaimed true QAnon believer, Rader says he believes the truth about what really happened in the 2020 election will be revealed before the 2024 presidential election, making it unnecessary to protest again. Rader said he remains 100% convinced the 2020 presidential election was stolen and doesn't second-guess his decision to go to Washington. "I don't regret going there," he said. "I believe the election was stolen." He does wish he'd had better control of his emotions in the months leading up to the election. And once he arrived at the Capitol steps. "I regret that I allowed my emotions to dictate my mind and my rational self," he said. "I regret going inside." MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) The invisible line dividing two of Alabamas congressional districts slices through downtown Montgomery, near iconic sites from the civil rights movement. On one side sits the church once led by the Rev Martin Luther King Jr. On the other is the spot where Rosa Parks was arrested helping to ignite the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The state's congressional boundaries are the subject of a high stakes case that will go before the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday. The plaintiffs contend that under the Voting Rights Act, Alabama is required to create a second congressional district in which Black voters make up a majority, or close to it. African Americans are about 27% of the states population but are the majority in just one of the states seven congressional districts. Our congressional map is not reflective of the population that lives in Alabama, said Evan Milligan, 41, among voters and advocacy groups who filed the lawsuit challenging the district lines. Milligan said it denies Black voters the opportunity to elect an additional person that can really go to the mat on their interests, citing issues ranging from generational poverty to the lack of internet service. The lawsuit claims Alabama dilutes the voting strength of Black residents by packing a large number of them into a single district the 7th, where 55% of voters are Black while fragmenting Black communities elsewhere. That limits their influence in the states other six districts. A three-judge panel that included two appointees of President Donald Trump ruled unanimously in January that Alabama likely violated the Voting Rights Act by giving Black voters less opportunity than other Alabamians to elect candidates of their choice to Congress. The judges ordered lawmakers to draw new lines for this years election. But in a 5-4 decision in February, the Supreme Court sided with Alabama and allowed this years congressional elections to take place without a change. This is just about getting Black voters, finally, in Alabama the opportunity to elect their candidates of choice. Its not necessarily guaranteeing that they will have their candidate elected, said Deuel Ross, who will be arguing the case as senior counsel at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, which is representing the plaintiffs. African Americans served in Alabamas congressional delegation during Reconstruction. They did not return until 1993, a year after the courts ordered the state to reconfigure the 7th Congressional District into a majority-Black one, which has since been held by a succession of Black Democrats. That 1992 map is the basis for the one in use today. Alabama maintains that courts, the Justice Department and even a legislature previously controlled by Democrats have blessed versions of the existing map for decades. Republican lawmakers and the Republican attorney general say the plaintiffs want to wrongly prioritize race above other redistricting principles such as keeping districts compact with like-minded communities. I think the Supreme Court is going to back us up that we complied with existing law, said state Rep. Chris Pringle, a Mobile Republican and chairman of the legislative committee that drew the new lines. Pringle said lawmakers prioritized a race-neutral approach, taking the previous map and tweaking it for population changes. The state contends the Black population is too spread out and that creating a second district would require contortionist maneuvers, such as connecting coastal areas in southwest Alabama to peanut farms in the east. The VRA is meant to prohibit racial gerrymanders, not require them, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said in a statement to The Associated Press. The 7th Congressional District snakes a winding path from Birmingham through the states Black Belt to sections of Montgomery. The other six districts have reliably elected white Republicans for the last decade. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, a Democrat, represents the district and said she would welcome the opportunity to have another colleague fighting for voting and civil rights, as well as other issues she supports. Sewell was the only member of Alabamas delegation to support restoring a provision of the Voting Rights Act that was gutted in a 2013 Supreme Court decision also arising from Alabama. She also was the only member of the delegation to vote for the American Rescue Plan, the pandemic relief package passed by congressional Democrats and signed by President Joe Biden. Its not about someone who shares your same skin tone, but someone who at least cares enough about your politics to be concerned about your issues, said the Rev. Benjamin Jones, who leads the St. James Missionary Baptist Church in rural Montgomery County. The strategy to challenge a map with a safe majority-Black district is not without political risks. Advocates fear an adverse ruling from the Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, could affect future redistricting cases. Five conservative justices were in the majority in the February vote blocking the use of the map during this years elections. Its a troubling sign of what may be to come, said Michael Li, senior counsel in the Democracy Center for the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University. The court could gut the law, he said, and make it all but impossible to use." The effects of a decision in favor of Alabama could be widespread, potentially allowing states to dismantle or alter districts that have elected Black, Latino and other minority candidates. If the plaintiffs prevail, lowering the percentage of Black voters in Sewells district to help form another could take an overwhelmingly safe district to one that is less so. Standing by Kings former church in downtown Montgomery, one of the lawsuits plaintiffs acknowledges the risk. I am nervous and Im not afraid to say that, said 26-year-old Khadidah Stone. I think the nervous part is looking at what happened in the summer with Roe v. Wade. When Im looking at that, I look at what else is up to possibly being attacked. ___ Associated Press data reporter Aaron Kessler contributed to this report. Associated Press coverage of democracy receives support from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. WASHINGTON (AP) The founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group and four associates planned an armed rebellion to keep President Donald Trump in power, a federal prosecutor contended Monday as the most serious case yet went to trial in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Stewart Rhodes and his band of extremists were prepared to go to war to stop Joe Biden from becoming president, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Nestler told jurors. The group celebrated the Capitol attack as a victory in that fight and continued their plot even after Biden's electoral victory was certified, Nestler alleged. Their goal was to stop, by whatever means necessary, the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by taking up arms against the United States government, the prosecutor said during his opening statement. They concocted a plan for armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy. The defendants are the first among hundreds of people arrested in the Capitol riot to stand trial on seditious conspiracy, a rare Civil War-era charge that calls for up to 20 years behind bars. The stakes are high for the Justice Department, which last secured such a conviction at trial nearly 30 years ago, and intends to try two more groups on the charge later this year. The trial comes as Trump continues to insist, against much evidence, that the 2020 election was stolen from him, and as vocal pushback against the charges filed against those who entered the Capitol continues in some quarters. The broader reaction could show how the American public, as well as the jury, sees the attack, nearly two years later. Defense attorneys accused prosecutors of cherry-picking comments from messages and videos and said the government has no evidence there ever was any plan to attack the Capitol. Rhodes' attorney said his client will take the stand and show that the Oath Keepers had merely been preparing for orders they expected from Trump but never came. Stewart Rhodes meant no harm to the Capitol that day. Stewart Rhodes did not have any violent intent that day, Rhodes' attorney, Phillip Linder, said. The story the government is trying to tell you today is completely wrong." On trial with Rhodes, of Granbury, Texas, are Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers; Kenneth Harrelson, another Florida Oath Keeper; Thomas Caldwell, a retired U.S. Navy intelligence officer from Virginia, and Jessica Watkins, who led an Ohio militia group. They face several other charges as well. They are among roughly 900 people who have been charged in the attack, which temporarily halted the certification of Biden's victory, sent lawmakers running for cover and left dozens of police officers injured. In the Oath Keepers case, prosecutors will try to prove that their actions were not a spontaneous outpouring of election-fueled rage but part of a detailed, drawn-out plot to stop Biden from entering the White House. The Oath Keepers were prepared in November, they were prepared in December and when the opportunity finally presented itself on Jan 6, 2021, they sprang into action," Nestler said. Rhodes began plotting to overturn Bidens victory right after the election, Nestler said. In November 2020, Rhodes sent his followers a step-by-step plan for stopping the transfer of power based on a popular uprising that brought down Yugoslavias president two decades earlier. Around the same time, Rhodes was also communicating in another internet group which included Trump ally Roger Stone that was called FOS," or Friends of Stone, according to testimony. On Nov. 7, 2020, Rhodes said in a message to that group that he was on his way to D.C. for a possible op and was available to meet face-to-face. As December approached, Rhodes' rhetoric became increasingly violent and desperate, Nestler said. In messages and comments read to the jury, the Oath Keepers repeatedly warned of violence if Biden were to become president. During a December interview, Rhodes called senators traitors and warned that the Oath Keepers would have to overthrow, abort or abolish Congress." He described Jan. 6 as a hard constitutional deadline for stopping the transfer of power. The Oath Keepers organized training, including one session on unconventional warfare." Before coming to Washington, they stashed weapons of war at a Virginia hotel to serve as quick reaction force" that could get guns into the capital quickly if necessary, the prosecutor said. As Oath Keepers stormed the Capitol in helmets and other battle gear, Rhodes remained on the outside, like a general surveying his troops on a battlefield, Nestler said. After the attack, the elated Oath Keepers went to a Virginia restaurant to celebrate their victory, the prosecutor said. In the days between the riot and Bidens inauguration, Rhodes spent more than $17,000 on firearm parts, ammunition and other items, prosecutors say. Shortly after the insurrection, Rhodes was secretly recorded saying that his only regret is that they should have brought rifles, Nestler said. Among those who may testify during the trial, which will last several weeks, are three Oath Keepers who've pleaded guilty to seditious conspiracy and are cooperating with prosecutors in hopes of getting lighter sentences. They include a man who says that after arriving in Washington, Meggs told him that another Florida Oath Keeper had brought explosives in his RV. The government's first witness was a FBI agent, who responded on Jan. 6 to help rescue senators. He described lawmakers crying, broken doors and windows and a scene that looked like a bomb had gone off. Defense lawyers say prosecutors have ripped the Oath Keepers' messages out of context to paint them unfairly. The Oath Keepers came to Washington to provide security at events for figures such as Stone before the presidents big outdoor rally behind the White House, defense lawyers said. Rhodes' attorney described the group as a peacekeeping force and called his client an extremely patriotic man who loves this country." Rhodes' attorneys plan to argue that Rhodes believed Trump was going to going to invoke the Insurrection Act and call up a militia, which Rhodes had been calling on him to do to stop Biden from becoming president. Rhodes' lawyers have said he was merely lobbying the president to invoke a U.S. law. Prosecutors say it's clear the Oath Keepers were going to act regardless of what Trump did. Nestler told jurors that Rhodes, a Yale Law School graduate, was only using the Insurrection Act as legal cover. In one message, Rhodes wrote in December 2020 that Trump needs to know that if he fails to act, then we will. An attorney for Caldwell said his client is a disabled veteran who didnt even know of the Oath Keepers until November 2020. The defense lawyer, David Fischer, called Jan. 6 a black eye for the country, but said Caldwell merely came to Washington on a date with his wife and wasn't een planning to go to the Capitol until Trump's speech on the Ellipse before the riot. Mr. Caldwell couldnt storm his way out of a paper bag, Fischer said. I came here to clear his name. This story has been corrected to reflect that there are five defendants, not five men, on trial. For full coverage of the Capitol riot, go to https://www.apnews.com/capitol-siege More than 2,500 U.S. and Philippine marines are participating in combat exercises to respond to any sudden crisis in the region. The annual drills are the first major exercise between the longtime treaty allies under newly elected Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The drills that started Monday involve 1,900 U.S. Marines and more than 600 mostly Philippine counterparts in mock amphibious assaults and special operations. The venues include the western island province of Palawan, which faces the South China Sea, and the northern Philippines, across the Luzon Strait from Taiwan. The drills in the Philippines are being held simultaneously with combat exercises between U.S. Marines and Japanese forces in northern Japan. WARSAW, Poland (AP) Polands foreign minister on Monday signed an official note to Germany requesting the payment of about $1.3 trillion in reparations for the damage incurred by occupying Nazi Germans during World War II. Zbigniew Rau said the note will be handed to Germanys Foreign Ministry. The signing comes on the eve of Raus meeting in Warsaw with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, who will attend a security conference. Rau said the note expresses his view that the two sides should take action without delay to address the effects of Germany's 1939-45 occupation in a lasting and complex, legally binding as well as material way. He said that would include German reparations as well as solving the issue of looted artworks, archives and bank deposits. He said Berlin should make efforts to inform German society about the true picture of the war and its disastrous effects on Poland. Warsaw says that payment of reparations would strengthen bilateral relations through truth and justice and would close painful chapters from the past. Germany says the matter was closed decades ago. Baerbock said in Berlin before departing for Poland that the two European neighbors and partners have a "responsibility to preserve the trust we have built together over the past 30 years. Baerbock stressed that this includes that coming to terms with and remembering the immeasurable suffering that Germany brought upon the people of Poland." "There cannot and will not be a line drawn here, Baerbock said. Polands right-wing government argues that the country hasn't been fully compensated by neighboring Germany, which is now one of its major partners within the European Union. On the wars 83rd anniversary, Sept. 1, Polands government presented an extensive report on the damages, estimating it at the $1.3 trillion figure. Polands government rejects a 1953 declaration by the countrys then communist leaders, under pressure from the Soviet Union, that Poland wouldn't make any further claims on Germany. Germany argues compensation was paid to Eastern Bloc nations in the years after the war, while territories that Poland lost in the east as borders were redrawn were compensated with some of Germanys prewar lands. Berlin calls the matter closed. It was Moscow that decided Poland would receive only a small fraction of the compensation. In the 1990s Germany paid one-time compensation to former inmates of Nazi concentration camps and to victims of forced labor, including many Poles. Despite good bilateral relations, Poland's most powerful politician, Jaroslaw Kaczynski, has recently made increasingly hostile remarks about Germany, recalling its wartime guilt and alleging that it is dominating the European Union. Critics see that as tactics aimed at rallying backing ahead of general elections scheduled next fall. Opinion polls suggest the ruling Law and Justice party and its allies will lose the narrow majority that now allows them to pass legislation without negotiating with other parties. Senate Speaker Tomasz Grodzki, a member of the opposition, said anti-German rhetoric was shaping up to be the ruling party's mantra for the upcoming election that voting against the ruling party was voting against Poland's interests. This is evident nonsense; it's untrue. It's a desperate attempt at defense against surveys that show falling support," Grodzki said. Around 6 million of Polands citizens, including 3 million Jews, were killed in the war. Some of them were victims of the Soviet Red Army that invaded from the east. Kirsten Grieshaber in Berlin contributed to this report. BEIRUT (AP) When the bulk cargo ship Laodicea docked in Lebanon last summer, Ukrainian diplomats said the vessel was carrying grain stolen by Russia and urged Lebanese officials to impound the ship. Moscow called the allegation false and baseless, and Lebanons prosecutor general sided with the Kremlin and declared that the 10,000 tons of barley and wheat flour wasnt stolen and allowed the ship to unload. But an investigation by the Associated Press and the PBS series Frontline has found the Laodicea, owned by Syria, is part of a sophisticated Russian-run smuggling operation that has used falsified manifests and seaborne subterfuge to steal Ukrainian grain worth at least $530 million cash that has helped feed President Vladimir Putins war machine. AP used satellite imagery and marine radio transponder data to track three dozen ships making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to ports in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and other countries. This story is part of an AP/FRONTLINE investigation that includes the War Crimes Watch Ukraine interactive experience and and upcoming documentary, Putins Attack on Ukraine: Documenting War Crimes, which premieres 10/9c Oct. 25 on PBS. The ongoing theft, which legal experts say is a potential war crime, is being carried out by wealthy businessmen and state-owned companies in Russia and Syria. Meanwhile, the Russian military has attacked farms, grain silos and shipping facilities still under Ukrainian control with artillery and air strikes, destroying food, driving up prices. The grain and flour carried by the 138-meter-long (453 feet) Laodicea likely started its journey in the southern Ukrainian city of Melitopol, which Russia seized in the early days of the war. Video posted to social media on July 9 shows a train pulling up to the Melitopol Elevator, a massive grain storage facility, with green hopper cars marked with the name of the Russian company Agro-Fregat LLC with a logo in the shape of a spike of wheat. Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov told AP the occupiers are moving vast quantities of grain from the region by train and truck to ports in Russia and Crimea, a strategic Ukrainian peninsula that Russia has illegally occupied since 2014. A July 11 satellite image shows the Laodicea tied up at a pier in Feodosia. The ships radio transponder was turned off. Two weeks later, when it arrived at the Lebanese port city Tripoli, it claimed to be carrying grain from a small Russian port on the other side of the Black Sea. A copy of the ships manifests obtained by AP claimed its port of origin was Kavkaz, Russia. The shipper was listed as Agro-Fregat, the same name on the train cars in Melitopol. The buyer was Loyal Agro Co Ltd., a wholesale grocer headquartered in Turkey. Agro-Fregat didn't respond to emailed questions and a phone number that had been listed on its website was out of service last week. A spokesman for Loyal Agro said the ship's cargo came from Russia. But the Laodicea couldnt have picked up its cargo in Kavkaz, the Russian port listed on the manifest. The ships hull, which reaches 8 meters (26 feet) below the surface, would run aground in the relatively shallow port, which has a maximum depth of 5.3 meters (17.5 feet). The port in Feodosia is more than twice as deep easily able to accommodate the big ship. Another company involved in smuggling grain is United Shipbuilding Corp., a Russian state-owned defense contractor sanctioned by the United States for providing weapons to the Russian war effort. The company, through its subsidiary Crane Marine Contractor, bought three cargo ships just weeks before Putin invaded Ukraine, in a departure from its core business providing heavy lift platforms to the oil and gas industry. The three ships have made at least 17 trips between Crimea and ports in Turkey and Syria. When AP called Crane Marine Contractor a receptionist answered by saying the company's name. A man she transferred the call to, however, insisted AP had the wrong number. You have reached the wrong place, we do not have such information, said the man, who refused to give his name. During a typical voyage in mid-June, a 170-meter-long ship (560 feet) called the Mikhail Nenashev was captured on satellite being loaded at the Russian-controlled Avlita Grain Terminal in Sevastopol, Crimea. The ship's radio transponder was turned off, a tactic often used by smugglers known as running dark." It arrived on June 25 in Dortyol, Turkey, and docked at a pier owned by MMK Metalurji, a steel producer. MMK Metalurji is controlled by Viktor Rashnikov, a Russian billionaire who is close to Putin. Rashnikov and his company have been sanctioned by the United States, European Union and United Kingdom. In an email to AP, MMK said the grain came from Russia: The place where the said cargo is loaded is PORT KAVKAZ. As with Laodicea, Nenashev's draught is too deep to dock at the Kavkaz port. Turkey helped broker an agreement between Russia and Ukraine in July to allow both countries to export grain and fertilizer through safe corridors in the Black Sea. The deal did not address the grain Russia has taken from occupied areas. Though Turkish authorities have pledged to stop illegal smuggling, Turkeys foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in a June news conference his country had not found any evidence of theft. In our investigation on ships ports and goods origins, following claims about Turkey, we saw the origin records to be Russia, he said Whatever the records say, the smuggling operation continues. Crane Marine Contractor's ship Matros Koshka named for a Russian sailor lauded as national hero for his bravery during the Crimean War of 1854 cruised north last week into the Black Sea with a listed destination of Kavkaz before turning off its transponder and running dark. Satellite imagery taken Thursday showed the 161-meter-long ship (528 feet) had docked once again at the grain terminal in the occupied Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, little more than a mile from a Soviet-era statue honoring its namesake. ___ AP investigative reporters Sarah El Deeb reported from Beirut and Michael Biesecker reported from Washington, and news verification reporter Beatrice Dupuy was in New York. AP reporters Arijeta Lajka in New York, Zoya Shu in Berlin and Ahmad El-Katib in Beirut contributed to this report. BEIRUT (AP) When the bulk cargo ship Laodicea docked in Lebanon last summer, Ukrainian diplomats said the vessel was carrying grain stolen by Russia and urged Lebanese officials to impound the ship. Moscow called the allegation false and baseless, and Lebanons prosecutor general sided with the Kremlin and declared that the 10,000 tons of barley and wheat flour wasnt stolen and allowed the ship to unload. But an investigation by The Associated Press and the PBS series Frontline has found the Laodicea, owned by Syria, is part of a sophisticated Russian-run smuggling operation that has used falsified manifests and seaborne subterfuge to steal Ukrainian grain worth at least $530 million cash that has helped feed President Vladimir Putins war machine. AP used satellite imagery and marine radio transponder data to track three dozen ships making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to ports in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and other countries. Reporters reviewed shipping manifests, searched social media posts, and interviewed farmers, shippers and corporate officials to uncover the details of the massive smuggling operation. This story is part of an AP/FRONTLINE investigation that includes the War Crimes Watch Ukraine interactive experience and and upcoming documentary, Putins Attack on Ukraine: Documenting War Crimes, which premieres 10/9c Oct. 25 on PBS. The ongoing theft, which legal experts say is a potential war crime, is being carried out by wealthy businessmen and state-owned companies in Russia and Syria, some of them already facing financial sanctions from the United States and European Union. Meanwhile, the Russian military has attacked farms, grain silos and shipping facilities still under Ukrainian control with artillery and air strikes, destroying food, driving up prices and reducing the flow of grain from a country long known as the breadbasket of Europe. The Russians have an absolute obligation to ensure that civilians are cared for and to not deprive them their ability of a livelihood and an ability to feed themselves, said David Crane, a veteran prosecutor who has been involved in numerous international war crime investigations. Its just pure pillaging and looting, and that is also an actionable offense under international military law. The grain and flour carried by the 138-meter-long (453 feet) Laodicea likely started its journey in the southern Ukrainian city of Melitopol, which Russia seized in the early days of the war. Video posted to social media on July 9 shows a train pulling up to the Melitopol Elevator, a massive grain storage facility, with green hopper cars marked with the name of the Russian company Agro-Fregat LLC in big yellow letters, along with a logo in the shape of a spike of wheat. Russian occupation official Andrey Siguta held a news conference at the depot the following week where he said the grain would provide food security for Russia-controlled regions in Ukraine, and that his administration would evaluate the harvest and determine how much will be for sale. As he spoke, a masked soldier armed with an assault rifle stood guard as trucks unloaded wheat at the facility to be milled. Workers loaded flour into large white bags like those delivered by the Laodicea to Lebanon three weeks later. Siguta, along with four other top Russian occupation officials, was sanctioned by the U.S. government on Sept. 15 for overseeing the theft and export of Ukranian grain. Putin signed treaties Friday to annex four occupied regions of Ukraine into the Russian Federation, in defiance of international law. The United States and European Union immediately rejected the illegal annexation. Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov told AP the occupiers are moving vast quantities of grain from the region by train and truck to ports in Russia and Crimea, a strategic Ukrainian peninsula that Russia has occupied since 2014. Despite Russian claims to have annexed Crimea, the United Nations ruled that land grab was also illegal. Videos posted on social media in recent months show a steady stream of grain transport trucks moving south through occupied areas of Ukraine with the letter Z painted on their sides, a wartime symbol for Russia and its military forces. Agro-Fregat train cars have been recorded rolling through the Crimean port town of Feodosia, where satellite imagery shows trucks and trains lined up as grain was being loaded onto ships. The Kremlin has denied stealing any grain, but Russias state-run news agency Tass reported on June 16 that Ukrainian grain was being trucked to Crimea, resulting in long lines at border checkpoints. Tass later reported that grain from Melitopol had arrived in Crimea and that additional shipments were expected, bound for customers in the Middle East and Africa. A July 11 satellite image shows the Laodicea tied up at a pier in Feodosia. The ships radio transponder was turned off and its cargo holds were open, being filled with a white substance from waiting trucks. Two weeks later, when it arrived at the Lebanese port city Tripoli, it claimed to be carrying grain from a small Russian port on the other side of the Black Sea. A copy of the ships manifests obtained by AP claimed its port of origin was Kavkaz, Russia. Its cargo was listed as nearly 10,000 metric tons of Russian Barley and Russian Flour in Bags. The shipper was listed as Agro-Fregat and the buyer was Loyal Agro Co Ltd., a wholesale grocer headquartered in Turkey. Agro-Fregat didn't respond to emailed questions and soon after AP's inquiry, the company's website appears to have been taken down. A phone number that had been listed on the website was out of service last week. A spokesman for Loyal Agro said the company took delivery of 5,000 tons of flour and the rest of the ship's cargo went to Tartus, Syria. We reached an agreement with Russia, the flour came from Russia, said Muhammed Cuma, a spokesman for the company. If the flour was stolen, then the Lebanese authorities would not have allowed it (to be imported). But the Laodicea couldnt have picked up its cargo in Kavkaz, the Russian port listed on the manifest. The ships hull, which reaches 8 meters (26 feet) below the surface, would run aground in the relatively shallow port, which according to Russias transport regulator can only accommodate ships with a maximum depth of 5.3 meters (17.5 feet). The port in Feodosia is more than twice as deep easily able to accommodate the big ship. The Laodicea is one of three bulk cargo vessels operated by Syriamar Shipping Ltd., a Syrian government-run company under U.S. sanctions since 2015 for its ties to the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. AP tracked 10 voyages made by the Laodicea and her sister ships Souria and Finikia from the Ukrainian coast to ports in Turkey, Syria and Lebanon. Syriamar didn't respond to emails to its headquarters in Latakia, Syria. A call to the phone number on the company's website went unanswered. ___ Another company involved in smuggling grain is United Shipbuilding Corp., a Russian state-owned defense contractor that builds warships and submarines for Russias navy. In April, the company and its senior executives were sanctioned by the United States for providing weapons to the Russian war effort. The company, through its subsidiary Crane Marine Contractor, bought three cargo ships just weeks before Putin invaded Ukraine, in a departure from its core business providing heavy lift platforms to the oil and gas industry. The three ships have made at least 17 trips between Crimea and ports in Turkey and Syria. A spokeswoman for United Shipbuilding Corp. in Moscow didnt respond to questions sent via email. When AP called Crane Marine Contractor a receptionist answered by saying the company's name. A man she transferred the call to, however, insisted AP had the wrong number. You have reached the wrong place, we do not have such information, said the man, who refused to give his name. I have no clue what you are talking about and no clue who I can connect you with, do you understand?" During a typical voyage in mid-June, a 170-meter-long ship (560 feet) called the Mikhail Nenashev was captured on satellite being loaded at the Russian-controlled Avlita Grain Terminal in Sevastopol, Crimea, while its radio transponder was turned off. The ships crew turned the signal back on two days later while underway in the Black Sea. It turned south toward the Mediterranean and arrived on June 25 in Dortyol, Turkey where exclusive video obtained by AP shows it two days later at a pier owned by MMK Metalurji, a steel producer. Cranes at the dock can be seen scooping up large bucket loads of grain and dropping it into waiting trucks that drive away. MMK Metalurji is the Turkish subsidiary of Magnitogorsk Iron & Steel Works, a major Russian steel conglomerate controlled by Viktor Rashnikov, a Russian billionaire who is close to Putin. Rashnikov and his company have been sanctioned by the United States, European Union and United Kingdom for providing revenue and equipment in support of Russia's war effort. In an email to AP, the company said the grain came from Russia: The place where the said cargo is loaded is PORT KAVKAZ according to the customs declaration and the written declaration made by the shipping agency to us. As with Laodicea, Nenashev's draught is too deep to dock at the Kavkaz port. Ami Daniel, CEO of the marine data analytics company Winward, said ships running dark is a red flag that illegal activity is occurring. He said it is also common for smugglers to falsify shipping manifests and customs declarations to hide the true origin of their cargo. Illegally falsifying documentation is a tactic used by bad actors to disguise the origin of the goods they are transporting, be it for the purpose of evading sanctions, trafficking illicit goods, or other crimes, said Daniel, a former Israeli naval officer. Rashnikov, who has a personal fortune estimated at more than $10 billion, appears to have anticipated the sanctions. Days before Russia launched its February invasion, his 140-meter-long superyacht (460 feet), the Ocean Victory, cruised from Dubai to the Maldives, a remote archipelago in the Indian Ocean where the government hasnt enforced Western sanctions. Ocean Victorys crew turned off its radio transponder on March 1, and the $300 million party barge has been running dark ever since. Since the invasion, global grain prices have skyrocketed, boosting profits for Russian smugglers, while triggering what U.N. World Food Program director David Beasley on Sept. 15 called a tsunami of hunger affecting at least 345 million people. While there is little evidence Ukrainians themselves are under threat of famine, Russias war of aggression has starved its economy of export revenue. In 2021, before Russias most recent invasion, Ukraine exported $5 billion worth of wheat, corn and vegetable oils primarily in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. The high prices havent helped Ukrainian farmers in the occupied regions, who have been forced to sell their harvests to Russian-controlled companies for half of what they would have been paid before the war, according to Fedorov, the Melitopol mayor. If a farmer refuses, he said, the Russians just take the grain anyway, paying nothing. It is a very low price, and our farmers dont understand what they can do, said Fedorov, who evacuated to Ukrainian-controlled territory after the invasion but keeps in touch with people back home. Ukrainian agricultural holding company HarvEast reported that Russians had taken about 200,000 metric tons of grain, which CEO Dmitry Skornyakov said cost his company about $50 million. He said his employees in the occupied Ukrainian city of Mariupol reported the grain was trucked across the border into Russia. To steal it, they just drive to Rostov and Taganrog, small Russian ports, then mix it with the Russian grain and say that that is Russian grain, Skornyakov said. The same appears to be happening at sea. Satellite imagery and transponder data shows large cargo ships anchored off the Russian coast rendezvousing with smaller ships shuttling grain from both Crimean and Russian ports, obscuring the true origin of the cargo. Those larger ships then carried the blended grain to Egypt, Libya, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Daniel, the former naval officer whose company tracks ships globally, said ship-to-ship transfers of cargo at sea are rare, and are usually tied to smuggling. When youre a sanctioned country, you have a much more limited market, he said. So if you dont blend your cargoes or if you dont hide your origin, you probably have a much smaller market and therefore much lower price. High demand for grain makes it easy for Russians to find buyers, said Oleg Nivievskyi, assistant professor and vice president for economics education at the Kyiv School of Economics. There will be no problem to sell the stolen grain from Ukraine whatsoever, he said. Yayla Agro, which makes packaged dried goods and ready-to-eat meals regularly stocked on the shelves of Turkish supermarkets, said it bought 8,800 metric tons of corn delivered by the Russian ship Fedor to the Turkish port of Bandirma on June 17. The cargo would be worth about $2.7 million. In a statement to AP, Yayla Agro denied it had ever purchased grain from the Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine, and said the bill of lading, certificate of origin and other official documents show the ship had been loaded in the port of Kavkaz. We would like to stress that our company is involved in international trade, abides by ethical rules and considers abiding by international law as an absolute priority, the company said. In the same vein, (Yayla Agro) meticulously examines whether its commercial partners are the subject of any international sanction. Satellite imagery from June 12 shows the Fedor was actually loaded in Sevastopol, Crimea. AnRussTrans, the Russian company that owns the ship through a subsidiary, didn't respond to emailed questions. Sergey Dubrov, who answered the phone at the companys headquarters in Moscow, denied receiving APs email and said he would only respond to written questions. I can say one thing," he added. "The ships exclusively work on legal transportation and do not violate international law. Yayla also confirmed purchasing 7,000 metric tons of corn from another Russian ship, SV. Nikolay, on June 24. Satellite imagery shows the ship had docked at the grain terminal in Sevastopol six days earlier, but the company said its documentation showing the grain had come from Kavkaz. As with the other smuggling ships, both the Fedor and SV. Nikolay are too big to dock at Kavkaz. ___ Turkeys role in the theft of Ukrainian grain is particularly sensitive because the NATO country has tried to play the role of mediator between the two warring countries. Turkey helped broker an agreement between Russia and Ukraine in July to allow both countries to export grain and fertilizer through safe corridors in the Black Sea. The deal did not address the grain Russia has taken from occupied areas. In the last two months Ukrainian officials said more than 150 ships carrying grain have departed from ports they still control, including shipments to Somalia and Yemen, war-torn nations currently facing famine. Yet there are also indications the Turkish government itself may be a recipient of disputed grain from Ukraine. AP and Frontline tracked trips from Crimea to Turkey by the smuggling ships Mikhail Nenashev, Laodicea and Souria to docks with seaside silos operated by the Turkish Grain Board, a government-run entity that imports and exports grain and other agricultural products. The boards press office and executives did not respond to emails with detailed questions about the suspect shipments. Though Turkish authorities have pledged to stop illegal smuggling, Turkeys foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in a June news conference his country had not found any evidence of theft. Weve received such claims, he said. And such information is coming from the Ukrainian side from time to time. We take every claim seriously and investigate it seriously. ... In our investigation on ships ports and goods origins, following claims about Turkey, we saw the origin records to be Russia. Whatever the records say, the smuggling operation continues. Crane Marine Contractor's ship Matros Koshka named for a Russian sailor lauded as a national hero for his bravery during the Crimean War of 1854 cruised north last week into the Black Sea with a listed destination of Kavkaz before turning off its transponder and running dark. Satellite imagery taken Thursday showed the 161-meter-long ship (528 feet) had docked once again at the grain terminal in the occupied Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, little more than a mile from a Soviet-era statue honoring its namesake. ___ AP investigative reporters Sarah El Deeb reported from Beirut and Michael Biesecker reported from Washington, and news verification reporter Beatrice Dupuy was in New York. AP reporters Arijeta Lajka in New York, Zoya Shu in Berlin and Ahmad El-Katib in Beirut contributed to this report. Follow Biesecker at twitter.com/mbieseck, El Deeb at twitter.com/seldeeb, and Dupuy at twitter.com/Beatrice_Dupuy Contact APs global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org. PONCE, Puerto Rico (AP) President Joe Biden promised to rebuild it all while visiting Puerto Rico on Monday, as tens of thousands of people remain without power two weeks after Hurricane Fiona struck and residents worry that Washington's dedication to their recovery could prove fleeting. I'm committed to this island, he said after receiving a briefing from local officials, acknowledging that Fiona was only the latest in a string of disasters that have pummeled the U.S. territory in recent years. Puerto Ricans are a strong people, Biden said. "But even so, you have had to bear so much, and more than need be, and you haven't gotten the help in a timely way." The damage from Fiona, which came only five years after the even more powerful Hurricane Maria, will test his administration's ability to help the island of 3.2 million people recover and bolster its defenses. Puerto Rico has a higher poverty rate than any state, and it remains vulnerable to storms that are only becoming more powerful and frequent as climate change continues. What happened with this hurricane is that even though it was Category 1, in terms of water it was like Category 4, Puerto Ricos governor, Pedro Pierluisi, told Biden. Fiona made landfall on Sept. 18, knocking out power to the entire island. Although electricity has been restored to 90% of its 1.47 million customers, more than 137,000 others, mostly in the hardest hit areas of Puerto Ricos southern and western regions, continue to struggle in the dark. Another 66,000 customers are without water. The weather remained ominous during Biden's visit on Monday. Thunder rumbled and lightning flashed in the distance. I don't want the headline to read, Biden brings storm to Puerto Rico," he joked. "So I'm gonna maybe have to cut this a little short. Biden announced the administration will provide $60 million through last years bipartisan infrastructure law to help Puerto Rico shore up levees, strengthen flood walls and create a new flood warning system so the island will be better prepared for future storms. Puerto Rico isn't the only corner of the country that's reeling from disaster. Florida is cleaning up after Hurricane Ian churned across that state last week, killing more than 60 people, decimating some coastal communities and flooding others. Biden plans to visit Florida on Wednesday to survey damage. "At times like these, our nation comes together, puts aside our political differences and gets to work," Biden said. The president was accompanied by first lady Jill Biden, who joined volunteers in a sweltering school gymnasium. She helped stuff plastic bags with canned goods, fruit cups, snack packages and rice. Pallets of bottled water were stacked along the wall. Little storm damage was visible during Biden's few hours on the ground in Puerto Rico after he touched down in Ponce, a city on the southern coast. Fiona caused catastrophic flooding, tore apart roads and bridges, and unleashed more than 100 landslides when it hit Puerto Rico on Sept. 18. At least two people died after being swept away by floods, and several others were killed in accidents related to the use of candles or generator during the island-wide power outage. Government officials have estimated some $3 billion in damages, but warn that costs could rise significantly as evaluations continue. Some people in Puerto Rico wondered whether Bidens visit would change anything as they recalled how President Donald Trump visited after Hurricane Maria hit as a more powerful Category 4 storm in 2017, and tossed rolls of paper towels into a crowd in a display that riled many. "We know that there may have been some issues in the previous administration," said Deanne Criswell, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator who joined Biden on his trip. "We are laser-focused on giving them the support they need. Criswell, who said FEMA personnel were sent to the island before the storm and will remain there to help with recovery, visited Puerto Rico shortly after Fiona struck. They finally feel like this administration cares for them, and that theyre going to be there for them to support them through this response and recovery effort," she said. There's entrenched skepticism in some areas of the island that anything will change. Manuel Veguilla, a 63-year-old retired mechanic who lives in a remote community in the hard-hit northern mountain town of Caguas, said he didnt expect his life to improve in the aftermath of Fiona, which cut off his neighborhood from any help for a week. They always offer the lollipop to the kids, he said, referring to Bidens visit. But in the end, the outcome is always the same. The aid goes to those who have the most. Biden recently told Pierluisi that he authorized 100% federal funding for 30 days for debris removal, search and rescue efforts, power and water restoration, shelter and food. Pierluisi asked for the funding to last for 180 days. In his remarks, Biden said, Im confident were going to be able to do all you want, governor. The lack of electrical power on the island led to the temporary closure of businesses, including gas stations and grocery stores, as fuel supplies dwindled amid heavy generator use. As a result, many cheered the Biden administration's decision to temporarily waive a federal law so that a British Petroleum ship could deliver 300,000 barrels of diesel. Many also have begun demanding that Puerto Rico be fully exempted from the law, known as the Jones Act, that requires that all goods transported to Puerto Rico be aboard a ship built in the U.S., owned and crewed by U.S. citizens and flying the U.S. flag. This drives up costs for an island that already imports 85% of its food. BELLEVUE The jet engines are roaring again at Offutt Air Force Base. One by one, eight of the 55th Wings RC-135 reconnaissance variant jets touched down Friday afternoon on the newly rebuilt runway after a short hop from their temporary home in Lincoln. At the controls of one of the wings training jets, Col. Kristen Thompson, the 55th Wing commander, got the honor of making the first landing at 2:08 p.m. It was the first landing at Offutt in 18 months, since the beginning of a complete reconstruction of the bases single 2-mile-long runway. Ladies and gentlemen, were finally here! Thompson told a crowd of about 600 55th Wing airmen, veterans and their families. She turned the event into a wing party. The Heartland of America band entertained. There was a military working dog demonstration, food trucks and bounce houses for the kids. Rebuilding the 80-year-old runway cost the Air Force $200 million: $169 million to replace the runway and neighboring apron and $31 million to renovate temporary office and hangar space at the Lincoln Airport. Today we just went from having the oldest and worst runway in the Air Force, to the newest and the best, said Rep. Don Bacon, a former 55th Wing commander. The runway was originally built in 1941 for the new Glenn L. Martin Bomber Plant, where Nebraska workers produced more than 2,000 aircraft during World War II. It was extended to its current length in the mid-1950s to accommodate Strategic Air Command aircraft. Since then, Bacon said, the Air Force has patched the runway every decade or so. But by the time he commanded the 55th Wing in 2011-12, it was in awful shape. He recalled one occasion when a plane carrying a visiting four-star general had to circle the airfield to wait for repairs that had suddenly become necessary. How can you make an 80-year-old runway work? You cant, Bacon said. U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer said she has been working to secure military and congressional support for the runway rebuild since she took office. She said when she visited the base, 55th Wing commanders would give her chunks of chipped runway concrete to take back to Washington. It was clear the runway was a disaster. It was in disrepair, she said. It has been a long, long road since then. But our efforts and our advocacy has paid off. Gen. Mark Kelly, who heads the 55th Wings parent command, the Air Combat Command, praised the collective effort that got the runway built, and kept the wing operating out of Lincoln without slowing down. He said 55th Wing crews flew 1,800 mission sorties during the year and a half of construction, at a time when rising world tensions made its mission more critical than ever. It took a whole village to make it happen, Kelly said. Offutt is a Cold War veteran. We need it to be that veteran today. The 55th Wings lead production superintendent, Master Sgt. Mitchell Morelos, and his team of aircraft maintainers bore the brunt of the hardship. Commuting to and from Lincoln on top of a normal duty day has taken its toll, he said. Not only that, they frequently had to haul tools and specialized equipment to Lincoln. Hangar space there was at a premium. Our guys were out there, rain, snow or shine, working outside every day, Morelos said. Its an absolute morale boost to have them back. Thompson described the runway closure as part of a terrible trifecta of hardships the 55th Wing has faced in the past three years, along with the catastrophic March 2019 flood that caused about $1 billion of damage, and the COVID-19 pandemic that has disrupted workplaces and schedules. Today we check one of this trifecta off the list, she said. The runway is back. After each episode of House of the Dragon, HBOs prequel to Game of Thrones, Slate writers gather to answer an age-old question: Who is the worst person in Westeros? This week, book critic Laura Miller and editorial assistant Nadira Goffe answer the call. Laura Miller: Nadira! Have you ever been to a family reunion more tense and dismal than the funeral and wake of Laena Velaryon? It seems like the whole first 15 minutes of Episode 7 of House of the Dragon, titled for its setting, Driftmark, the castle of the Velaryon clan, consists of the characters in this extended family staring at each other meaningfully across terraces, full of regret and thwarted yearning and resentment. Literally no one in this bunch is getting what they want, least of all poor old Viserys, who just wants them to stop all the infighting, even though his own actions are at the root of it all. Lots of bad behavior, from Aegon boozing it up and leering at the serving wenches, to Aemonds dragon-stealing and assault on his cousins, to Alicents dreadful reaction in the castle, to Rhaenyras extremely cold-hearted ordering of the assassination of the husband whos just pledged his devotion to her and her reign. Plus, Daemon and Rhaenyra finally consummate whatever the feeling between them can be called, but at least no one gets hurt by that maybe? If they werent so hot for each other, Laenor might not have seemed so expendable to her. On the other hand, Rhaenyra is doing what she has to do to protect herself and her children. Its not like she hates Laenor. In fact, she cares for him. Maybe a queens gotta do what a queens gotta do, but still Is Rhaenyra the worst person in Westeros? What do you think? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nadira Goffe: Ive been to some tense family reunions but this one certainly takes the cake. The oppressive feeling of the tectonic plates of power shifting underneath the Targaryens feet certainly didnt help quell matters of grief nor frustration with each other, though Rhaenyra (and Daemon as her bedfellow) seemed to be the one most willing to take advantage of it all. I completely agree with your comment that, had Daemon and Rhaenyra not been so hot for each other, she might have thought twice about ordering a hit on what was essentially her only true friend and ally. Though that is more than a little shameful, Im not sure I can award her the crown of Worst Person in Westeros yet again. Im a little burnt that she tried to kill an innocent man who happened to both recently pledge allegiance to her and also be the only character who brings me joy in the show, but I do think Rhaenyra was placed in a very dire situation when she made this calculated move. Advertisement Advertisement Once the accusations of Rhaenyras sons bastard parentage were launched by and in front of the highest-ranked successors to the crown, the cat was officially out of the bag. And though Viserys ordered to quell such rumors, he didnt outright say they were preposterous, either. I mean, how could he? It is obvious and everyone knows its true, as Aegon said. Not to mention, her sons lives had already been quite openly threatened. It was clear that Laenor couldnt really do much more for her, especially if he could not father her a son himself. Though thats no excuse to kill him, I can understand it? And for what its worth (which is not much), I do believe she genuinely cared for Laenor as a friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But I cant say that all the other Westerosi bad apples had as good or dire of reasons for their actions. I was equally annoyed and appalled by Aemonds behavior this week, especially considering last episode made him seem like such a nonevent. But here he became the event, racking up a list of offenses including dragon stealing and attempted child murder. What did you think of Aemond this episode, Laura? Sign up for the Slate Culture Newsletter The best of movies, TV, books, music, and more, delivered to your inbox. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. Miller: What Im always thinking of Aemond is, Isnt that Chloe Sevigny? The resemblance is startling. Like Aegon, but in a different way, Aemond is a repellent kid, but I did feel sorry for him that his own brother ganged up with his cousins to humiliate him by presenting him with a winged pig in the last episode. And I fully understand his longing for a dragon, both because it would give him stature in a world where he is obviously disregarded and because who wouldnt want to fly? He also seems better suited to rule (in the Targaryen style) than Aegon, who is just a wastrel. Hes willing to give up a lothe says hed willingly marry the insect-obsessed Helaena, a girl as creepy as he is, to do his dutyand he considers the loss of his eye worth it to gain Vhagar, who I believe is the biggest dragon in the known world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aemond is a sneaky devil, though, and is harboring a truly scary rage at pretty much everyone but his mother. Arguably, his filching of Vhagar can be justified as exactly the sort of daring act youd expect of a dragon rider. These people live in a world where fair play doesnt really count for much. Hes bravethat dragon is big!and hes ruthless, which is what seems to be called for in a Westerosi ruler. Fortune favors the bold, and all that. I sometimes think Im the only viewer with much sympathy for Viserys, who just wants to rule a peaceful kingdom with a decent family. Most people seem to blame him for the disasters that have befallen his reign because hes weak. But if were going to blame Viserys for not being strong enough, we cant also condemn a character like Aemond for fulfilling what constitutes strength in his world. Im not up on Westerosi history, but he seems like exactly the sort of person who will ultimately end up on the Iron Throne. Advertisement Advertisement I do want to note that there is a crazy amount of sitting-on-a-guy-and-beating-his-face-in going on in this show, and now even the kids are doing it! That fight was very disturbing, and Aemond was responsible for escalating it by picking up that rock. Still, hes a child, and acting out of a sense that everyone is against him and everything he wants in life will have to be taken by force. Id like to propose someone for Worst Person who really ought to know better: Alicent. She literally comes at child with a knife in this episode! Sure, shes upset about Aemond losing his eye: Who wouldnt be? But as Rhaenyra points out, mutilating an 8-year-old for vengeance is not exactly Alicents brand. Exhausting, was it? Rhaenyra hisses at her. Hiding under the cloak of your own righteousness? But now they see you as you are. And one of the people who likes what he sees is Otto Hightower, her father, who thinks shes finally showing the gumption it will take to win at what he admits is an ugly game. In a way, this world is the hardest on people like Alicent, Criston Cole, and Laenor, those who have a code of morality or honor. It makes them far more bitter than the realists like Rhaenyra and Daemon. Alicent really betrays herself by trying to take Lukes eye, as well as simply behaving with monstrously violent intent. And that does make it worse, at least to my mind. What do you think? Advertisement Advertisement Goffe: Im not sure we should let Aemond off the hook so easily. It could be because Game of Thrones has taught me well, or because Im knee-deep in rewatching Criminal Minds, but sometimes kidsthough they be kidscan just be evil. Youre right, its not like he wasnt bullied in the previous episode (which is a likely indication of consistent bullying beforehand), but if he truly was anything other than an agent of chaos, his whole dont worry mom, Im down an eye but up a dragon statement would haveand should havecome before all the bloodshed and screaming. After all, he really was the antagonizing force that started most of this weeks drama. Its worth noting that the dragon he stole belonged to Laena, rightfully upsetting her young daughters, especially the one set to inherit Vhagar. And I think some of my distaste of Aemonds actions is influenced by my feeling of pity for Rhaenyras kids. They are doomed to fail and be targeted, though they show great heart (they remind me of the Starks in that way). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But I definitely take your points in Aemonds defense to heart: namely that Im someone who wishes that Viserys would actually do something, and thats one of the reasons I hesitate to fault Daemon too much (definitely a doer, if anything). So, let it be a reason I hesitate to fault Aemond as well. And heres where I also admit that, given all of your aforementioned reasons of boldness and bravery, I actually like Aemond. Skirting over the attempted child murder, I like characters who are unafraid to make big moves for big rewardsa character trait the show itself makes its audience desire. Advertisement Advertisement In lieu of keeping a watchful eye on Aemond as WPiW for the following episodes, I will agree with you that Alicent is the clear worst Westerosi left. One of the most upsetting things about Alicent to me is that she had such potential to be an iconic Big Bad, but I find her to be mostly annoying? It seems like, though she has plenty of the most cunning and resourceful characters at her disposal, like Larys and Otto, she cant seem to do anything right. I had such high hopes for her treachery to be interesting and smart, but no, its just rash and emotionally broad. She should have had the tact to not call for the mutilation of an 8-year-old, especially since shes smart enough to know that it truly is her sons who are the antagonizing asshats that start all of the messes she blames Rhaenyras sons for. Her grudge against Rhaenyra took her too far this time, and in a crazed attempt to mutilate Luke, she accidentally cuts Rhaenyrathe heir to the throneinstead. Like in front of everyone! Advertisement Maybe my WPiW is the writers for dashing all of my hopes that a woman, like Cersei in GoT, at least had a chance of winning or being more influential than whoever physically sits on the Iron Throne anyway. I just dont think Alicent has it in her, making all of her misdeeds for nothing. Miller: Thats a great point about Alicent. She cant scheme, and when a schemer like Larys signs on to her cause, shes scared of him instead of recognizing that he could be useful (although her remarks to him on the ship at the end suggest this could change). She gets absolutely nothing out of trying to harm Luke, just the reputation for being a madwoman. Sometimes the road to hell really is paid with good intentionsor maybe just good inclinations. And that makes Alicent Hightower this weeks worst person in Westeros. In My Octopus Teacher, the Academy Awardwinning 2020 Netflix documentary, filmmaker Craig Foster chronicles his yearlong relationship with an octopus living in a South African kelp forest. The creature is passing strange when he first spots it, hiding itself in a cloak of shells to lure its prey into a false sense of safety. By the end of the film, however, when the octopus inevitably dies after laying her eggs, his loss feels wrenching, like the demise of the spider made lovable in the course of Charlottes Web. This notion is right there in the title: What the animal taught the man was how to feel again. A lot of people say an octopus is like an alien, Fosters voice-over narrator remarks. But the strange thing is, as you get closer to them, you realize that were very similar in a lot of ways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not, though. As Ha Nguyen, a marine biologist in Ray Naylers scintillating debut novel, The Mountain in the Sea, explains, octopuses are solitary animals while humans are highly social, and octopus life spans are short: an average of three years, with many species living only a year. Hawho has written a speculative book on the possibility of octopus consciousnessalso points out that once octopus eggs hatch, the young of most species float to the surface and drift in the plankton before settling to the bottom at another location. That kills any connection to place or kin. To produce consciousness as we understand it, she declares, you would need to have a creature that is long-lived, that is social, that raises its young, and can pass information from one generation to the next. An octopus that has developed a complex, symbolic system of communication. As far as we know, Ha says, such an octopus doesnt exist. Advertisement Advertisement Sign up for the Slate Culture Newsletter The best of movies, TV, books, music, and more, delivered to your inbox. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. Nevertheless, Ha has agreed to study a rumored octopus colony that might possibly fit that bill at an environmental reserve on the remote Vietnamese archipelago of Can Dao. The Mountain and the Sea, a fusion of techno-thriller and novel of ideas, reveals what she finds there while also offering intriguing glimpses of the larger, near-future world beyond Can Dao. One of the archipelagos islands in particular has long been the subject of legends concerning a sea monster. Villagers have seen strange shapes on the beach or discovered the bodies of people killed in mysterious attacks. When the novel opens, however, there are no villagers left to whisper about the place because an international corporation called DIANIMA has bought the whole reserve and ejected its occupants. Advertisement Advertisement Put up by DIANIMA in an abandoned beachfront resort, Ha considers the octopuses and their society, while mostly starved of human society herself. Her only companions are a surly security guard named Altantsetsega Mongolian woman whos a veteran of a punishing Asian warand Evrim, the worlds one and only android. Created by the scientist who founded DIANIMAa figure who hovers at the periphery of the novel as a string-pulling mastermindthe ungendered Evrim provoked so much popular outrage upon their debut that they have been relegated to this remote outpost on an assignment designed to keep them out of the public eye. Nayler depicts the android as elegant and mournful, a quoter of Shakespeare (The Tempest, of course) who cant eat the macaroon the newly arrived Ha offers as a gift but wants to hold onto it anyway because I have never been given anything quite like it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ha isnt sure, at first, if the octopus colony represents a new strain of superintelligent cephalopods, but she soon learns that it is remarkable simply for bringing so many of the creatures together. (Two real-life exceptions to octopus solitude, Octopolis and Octlantis, are settlements characterized by constant conflict and occasional cannibalism.) As the Can Dao team begins its investigation, however, it soon sees signs of something more than the usual Hobbesian war of mollusk against mollusk. Is that aging octopus actually being protected by its fellows? And what is the meaning of an extraordinary interaction in which an adult octopus uses its ability to change the color of its body to flash a series of repeating patterns at a younger animal? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orbiting this central story are two suspenseful subplots whose connection to Has storyline are only slowly revealed. In one, Rustem, a particularly intuitiveand therefore uniquely giftedRussian hacker accepts a job from a woman wearing a digital mask that conceals her face. She acts on behalf of a shadowy organization that wants him to find a back door into a formidable neural network. In the other subplot, a young Japanese man applying for a position at the regional headquarters of DIANIMA in the Ho Chi Minh Autonomous Trade Zone is shanghaied from a brothel and wakes up enslaved on a massive fishing vessel run by artificial intelligence and patrolled by heavily armed mercenaries. Does the kidnapped workers desperate plan for a mutiny stand a chance? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mountain in the Sea is a novel that wears its themes on its sleeve, but the ideas it tangles withideas that may feel especially pertinent at the moment but are actually as old as humanity itself are so intriguing that this hardly matters. Alone on the island, Ha, Altantsetseg, and Evrim struggle to come up with definitions of consciousness, selfhood, and culture that can fit both human beings and octopuses. And Evrim, too, wonders about their place at this table; the great question of their life is whether they are truly conscious or merely a simulacrum of a human mind. In Evrim, Ha recognizes a being made of human ingredientsthe android has been installed with the complete neural connectome of their brilliant creatorwho also becomes less and less human over time because of their perfect recall. Thats what we are, we humans, Ha reasons, creatures that can forget. While we typically see forgetting as a loss, the fact that nothing can reside in our minds forever, etched into us, means we can replace our old selves with new ones. Nayler no sooner raises this striking pointisnt the ability of living creatures to remake themselves somehow central to the condition of begin alive?than he does a counterpoint. Eiko, the enslaved man on the fishing boat, believes that the only way to hold onto his humanity is to carefully maintain an elaborate memory palace to prevent him from forgetting anything about his experience on the ship. Eiko is convinced that it was his inattention to the world and people around him that led him into his predicament. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be conscious, as Ha figures it, the octopuses need languagea tool for remembering, and for passing on what they remember to others. To produce language, they must have a community to share it with. But The Mountain and the Sea slyly observes that our species isnt as proficient with such prerequisites of consciousness as we would like to believe. Altantsetseg deliberately uses a janky translating device that produces a brusque, stilted version of her own speech in order to keep people at arms length. I dont always want to have a conversation, she explains to Ha. In fact, I almost never want to have a conversation. Ha, an orphan wounded by an intense, formative experience of unrequited love, feels that she has lived her life at a distance, as if somewhere behind glass there was another Ha, always untouched, observing and never being observed. Its not just the Can Dao team, either. One of the shadowy DIANIMA founders most popular inventions is an artificial companion known as a point-five. What most people want, as one character puts it, is not a relationship with another fully formed person: They want to be the complete one, the person who controls the relationshipand they want the other person to be half a person. You know, someone who gets them, but who doesnt have their own demands. Slate receives a commission when you purchase items using the links on this page. Thank you for your support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why do creatures made so uncomfortable by genuine interaction with one another desperately want to connect with yet another conscious species? And why would such a species, if it had any sense, engage in such contact? The primary message the octopuses wish to get across to humanity is go away! But by using cloaked drones (Altantsetseg is the wizardly operator of an entire fleet of them), the Can Dao team learns enough about the colony to begin to worry about what will happen to it once word gets out. And what are DIANIMA and its creators intentions for Can Dao, anyway? To judge from their past actions, nothing good. The Mountain in the Sea has some talky patches, especially the parts where Ha and Evrim hash out the meaning of the teams work. But Rustems and Eikos parallel storylines inject action into the novel while sustaining Naylers point that humanity needs to get its own house in order before it starts looking for company in the universe. What does it signify to quibble about Evrims status as human when the fishing ship treats people like nothing more than machines? At what point does Rustems ability to imagine himself into artificial minds lead to an empathy that will oblige him not to interfere with them? Nayler has a gift for summoning up a sense of place, whether its the rainy streets of the Ho Chi Minh Autonomous Trade Zone at night, where electric motorbikes swept past like luminescent fish, or the deserted resort commandeered by the Can Dao team, where torn curtains bled through the broken windows on the upper floors and ribbons of damp and mold streaked the facade. And however weighted the characters relationships are with such big themes, they still play out with a pleasing dramatic flair: You can tell Altantsetseg has finally warmed to her fellow team members when she switches to a better translating device. Nayler works with marine sanctuaries at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Given this day job, its unsurprising that the novel does briefly tip into didacticism about how people ought to care more about one another and the environment. Still, the imaginative stretches the novel calls forthe consideration of what shapes minds might take in bodies radically different from oursmake up for the occasional finger wagging. His octopuses are so much more than teacherly dispensers of life lessons, and fortunately, this wondrous novel is, too. Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group. Dear Care and Feeding, My 14-year-old son and six of his friends were at a sleepover when they decided to sneak out and meet up with a sleepover of three girls in an adjoining neighborhood. This group of ten 14-year-olds walked around the neighborhood from midnight to 2 a.m. Then they went back to their own hosts homes. Neither group had permission to leave. The next morning, doorbell camera footage outed all those involved, and the kids confessed to their parents. My son texted me letting me know what had happened. Advertisement My problem is not so much what happened, but how it was handled. I was upset with my son. He knew not to leave without permission. I thought he was incredibly rude to his hosts to put them in that position and had broken trust with me. He was very sorry, and weve had many good discussions since about peer pressure and communication. I took away his phone for the weekend and grounded him from social activities for two weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other parents of the boys think I am being completely ridiculous. They have no punishment for their sons at all. They are frustrated with me for overreacting. They have told me things like this is just part of being in high school, and you just need to forgive and move on. I have definitely forgiven my son! I agree that this is part of growing up, but actions have consequences, and I think sneaking out is serious. Nothing bad happened that night, but that doesnt make sneaking out a harmless thing to do. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, all three girls have had significant punishments. One is grounded for the rest of the school year. All three have their phones confiscated indefinitely. Their parents are much, much angrier. In text exchanges, my sons friends parents have said things like the parents of the girls have way more to worry about than we do, and what were those girls thinking, sneaking out with boys?! This seems like a huge double standard to me. Why is the same infraction harmless when boys do it, but incredibly serious when girls do it? I would really appreciate any help you could give me. Ive never felt so out of place as a parent. Usually my views pretty much align with my parent friends. Everything is great right now between my son and I, but we both feel judged by his friends and their parents. Advertisement Advertisement So, did I overreact in punishing my son? Is sneaking out normal for boys but horrible for girls? The One Mean Mom Dear TOMM, No, you did not overreact. Yes, sneaking out is normal for boys (and girls). No, it is no more horrible for girls than boys. Yes, the patriarchy is the worst. In my opinion, the consequences for your son (the punishment, the several heart-to-hearts, and your forgiveness) are perfectly proportional to the crime. Regardless of what I think, though, it is 100 percent not those other parents business. Advertisement Advertisement Your parent friends seem to have a severe case of boys will be boys, so girls better watch out syndrome. If I were you, I would tell the other parents to mind their own business about both your parenting decisions and how the young women comport themselves. If you feel a bit like poking the proverbial bear, you might ask them why they think its OK for boys to sneak out and not girls. Depending on their answers, you can remind them that preventing harm to young women is the responsibility of both sexes, and that you are raising your son to recognize that his actions have consequences, especially where others wellbeing is concerned. Or, just forget this whole endeavor, because Im not sure whether these parents will get the message. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would also have a conversation with your son to create a game plan for if (and when) this happens again. Will he truly be able to stay back if the rest of his friends sneak out? Will it be social suicide if he does? Sorry to be hard on your and his peer groups, but if this is the response you are getting from the adults for what is a reasonable punishment, I worry that those kids will not hesitate to ostracize or ridicule your son for playing by the rules in the future. Catch Up on Care and Feeding If you missed Sundays column, read it here. Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group! Dear Care and Feeding, Advertisement Hello, Im a single soon-to-be 41-year-old woman. I froze my eggs about five years ago in the hopes that I would have met Mr. Right by now, but it just hasnt happened. Because of this, Ive thought long and hard over the past few years about having children on my own. Ive talked it over with friends, family, and my therapist. I have so much love to give, and Ive always pictured myself having a family. I think I possess the self-awareness, empathy, and kindness to be a good parentbut Im so worried about the logistical ramifications of choosing to be a single mom. Im a physician, make decent money and live in a high cost-of-living area that I love and is near family, though I cant rely on family for any childcare. So, Im thinking an au pair would be a good solution. These are my general concerns: do children conceived from sperm donation have trauma later on from not knowing their father or where they came from? Do they suffer from not having a father or second parent growing up? If so, how can I best help with this? And my biggest concern: will it be detrimental for my child to have an au pair they spend so much time with who ultimately leaves when the child becomes school-aged? Will it hurt them like the loss of a parent? That seems like an awful thing to subject a child to. Sometimes I feel like Im trying to do something selfish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dreaming of Being a Mom Dear Dreaming, You could argue that any decision to start a family is inherently selfish: we have children because we think it will bring us joy, fulfillment, purpose, someone to take over the family businesswhatever! So please absolve yourself of those feelings of guilt and doubt. I do not have any personal acquaintances, that I know of, with experiences using a sperm donor. However, several people in my life have adopted, been adopted, and/or given children up for adoption. From those folks, I can tell you that some adopted individuals feel a sense of incompleteness in not knowing their whole biological story, and some do not. I think a lot of that depends on the person in question: their personality, their family relationships, their sense of self, even medical questions. As you explore the donor process, I would ask the facilities what biographical information is given, or can later be made available, to the resulting child. Some facilities do open-identity sperm donation, which means that the donor agrees to have at least one contact with the child once they turn 18, if the child wishes. You may choose to conceive with one of these facilities if you want to leave that possibility on the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your next question, about whether the child suffers from not having a father or second parent growing up strikes a familiar chord with me. As a widow, I have this question often for my own two boys, as do other widows I know. We worry whether our hectic juggling or low threshold for stress is unfair to the kid, but also whether they will feel emotionally or existentially cheated as they grow up without two parents. Again, some kids do and some dont (and some go back and forth), depending on a variety of factors. A feeling of loss or something missing can also happen with international adoptions, when a child feels cut off from their ethnic and cultural heritage. My point is that many parents wonder these same kinds of questions for their children, yet those family structures are still valid and accepted ways to make a family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, I dont think you are risking any future emotional trauma with an au pair. Im certain you can find a lot of advice in the au pair communities on social media (there are several) and elsewhere about how to manage all aspects of that relationship, including the eventual separation. And for what its worth, my dear friend growing up had an au pair much of his childhood, and she attended his college graduation! Some of these relationships do endure, and even if they dont, it doesnt make them less meaningful. I think its pretty clear from my counterpoints here that I see no reason for you to hesitate or feel guilty about your choice to have a family. If you pursue this, youll have much more in common with a variety of non-traditional parents out there than perhaps you might have thought at first, and a whole community of parents to be your sounding board along the way. If you have love to give and the resources to parent successfully, I see no reason that you cant go forward. Advertisement Want Advice From Care and Feeding? Submit your questions about parenting and family life here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.) Dear Care and Feeding, I have a good friend from college who has a very cute 4-year-old. I am childless but love this kid like a niece. The thing is, my friend has some SERIOUS mental health issues since the quarantine period of the pandemic. She fears leaving her house, and mostly doesnt. Neither does her daughter. Going outside is a BIG production. I love my friend, but I also love her daughter, and Im concerned that shes not growing. Shes not potty-trained, shes not weaned, she doesnt know how to share, shes afraid to be near peopleshes like a 2-year-old in a 4-year-olds body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Butshes not my kid. My first instinct is to stay out of it. But Im genuinely concerned. What do you think I should, and can, do to help? Concerned Aunt Dear Concerned, Normally, I vote for butting out of other peoples parenting choices. But, if youve read my columns, youll know I also normally vote for therapy. In this case, therapy wins. If everything is as you say, and if you are truly as close to this friend as you indicate, then I think you have a situation where you can and should step in, gently. (Does your friend have family you can talk to? What do they say about all this?) Id encourage you to ask more questions than stating opinions. Is there a plan for potty training, or for school? Are there medical reasons they have to remain this vigilant? Etc. Ask her what support you can lendtaking the daughter out yourself for mini-excursions, calling around to find a therapist, or speaking to the pediatrician might all be small steps your friend would be willing to entertain. As you talk to her, keep the focus on her daughter and what she needs, not what your friend is doing wrong. Advertisement You may have to have this conversation a few times before much progress can be made. If your friend is open to it but slow to act, dont give up. Slow progress is still progress, and consistency from you might be able to help it happen. Good luck! Dear Care and Feeding, Please help settle a dispute between my husband and me. Over Labor Day weekend, we both had to work, and we let our 7-year-old go to the beach with my in-laws without us. We packed plenty of sunscreen and a hat, and we talked to my in-laws about how often they needed to help her reapply it. Well, she came home BADLY sunburntwere talking blisters and peeling skin, and tears at bedtime because it hurt to lie down. When we asked my in-laws what happened, they said something about losing track of time and forgetting to reapply sunscreen as often as they should have. To them, it was an unfortunate oopsie that just happens sometimes, not a serious screw-up on their part. Advertisement Advertisement I am furious. She has never gotten more than a very minor sunburn with us, despite having fair skin like my husband. Sorry, but its really not that hard. You just look at your watch or set a timer on your phone. To me, this is no different than if she had come home with stitches or a broken bone due to their negligence. Advertisement Advertisement I dont want her to be alone with them for outdoor activities again until she is old enough to be fully responsible for her own sun protection. An afternoon with them where we can apply her sunscreen beforehand? Sure. But no more beach trips without us, and no more all-day visits where theres any chance that theyd need to reapply her sunscreen. Advertisement My husband thinks it wasnt great of them but that forbidding any more outdoor activities alone with them is overreacting. He got multiple nasty burns like that as a kid, so I guess to him its normal. He thinks its enough to tell them we were really upset about the burn and that its extremely important that they follow our instructions in the future. I dont want to give them a second chance on this, because getting even a few severe sunburns as a child greatly increases your chances of getting melanoma. Who is right? Is there some compromise where we can let her continue to have extended visits with my in-laws while ensuring that this never happens again? Advertisement Dont Want to Get Burnt Again Dear Burnt, Advertisement You are right to be furious, but I have to agree with your husband on this one. The in-laws get one more chance. Next time a long-term outdoor playdate is set up, you (and your husbandyou must be a united front on this!) need to stress to the grandparents just how much pain your daughter experienced and how that simply cannot happen again. Give them the tools you just shared with me (setting timers, etc.) and just enough guilt to let it stick and see what happens. If she again comes back badly burned, then at that point you can discuss whether these outings are off limits. Advertisement However, letter writer, you can help the in-laws (and your daughter!) by outfitting her more protectively. My Swedish niece and nephews wear long-sleeve rash guards, which have UV protection built in. That dramatically lowers the surface area you need to apply sunscreen to and makes forgetting way less risky. Sending your child in this gear is extra insurance against her getting hurt, and also diminishes the set-your-in-laws-up-to-fail dynamic you might be heading towards otherwise. Finally, your daughter is 7, and thats old enough for her to understand the importance of sunscreen and help her grandparents to remember it. Im not saying the responsibility should be all on her, but if you can motivate her to protect her skinor just avoid painshell be more likely to either proactively apply it herself, remind her grandparents to set the timer, or both. Bottom line: mistakes happen (ask my son about his sunburn!) and our loved ones deserve grace, at least until their mistakes become chronic. Sorry to vote against you! Allison Last year, we joined with three other voting rights advocates to sue the state of Alabama over its recently adopted congressional map. And we won. Three federal judgesincluding two appointed by former President Donald Trumpunanimously agreed that Alabamas map violates the Voting Rights Act, or VRA, by diluting the voting strength of Black Alabamians living in the Black Belt, a collection of 20 rural counties in the states central region. With the exception of Montgomery, most Black Belt counties are rural. Like our co-plaintiffs, our careers have been shaped by opportunities to serve Black families in this region. Many of these families are ninth-generation descendants of the enslaved people who tilled this rich soil, building the foundation of Alabamas commodity industry and the U.S. financial sector. Amid profound oppression and absent government infrastructure, they have created blues, soul, and gospel music traditions, elaborate textile designs, and effective grassroots organizing tactics that have expanded democratic values worldwide. Despite these contributions, white voters rarely support Black candidates, regardless of their political party. As a result, no Black Alabamian has ever won in a majority-white congressional district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After reviewing our arguments, the three judges agreed that Alabamas map discriminates by giving white voterswho are 63 percent of the populationtotal control over 86 percent of Alabamas congressional seats. The judges ordered Alabama to adopt a new map that respects the states redistricting goals and contains two opportunity districts where Black voters preferred candidates have a fair chance to compete for votes. Many potential maps were shown to state officials to address this. But Alabama simply ignored them, instead appealing our win to the Supreme Court of the United States. SCOTUS then stayed the lower courts decision without full briefing or argument, and without addressing the district courts powerful finding of discrimination. This decisionwhich underscores the problematic nature of making such momentous decisions on the courts shadow docketmeans that these midterm elections will continue to be tainted by a discriminatory map that dilutes Black voting power. Advertisement Advertisement On October 4, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case. Here is how Alabama plans to pursue victory in a case it could not win at home: First, Alabama claims that the VRA is unconstitutional as applied to congressional districts. Second, Alabama is arguing that any use of race in redistricting is per se unconstitutional. Alabama is calling our plans discriminatory merely because our experts set out to show it is possible to draw two majority-Black districts. The problem is that the Constitution does allow, and sometimes requires, legislatures to intentionally draw districts that recognize or protect communities of color. Advertisement Lets be clear: A ruling that forces state and local governments to disregard race in map-drawing would have devastating effects on electoral representation. If the court sides with Alabama, states would be free to ignore and divide communities of color and could even eliminate many existing minority opportunity districts so long as a state could conjure up a purportedly nonracial excuse for its actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If this happens, political opportunities for people of color will disappear. The VRA opened doors for elected officials of color nationwide. Many of these officials have delivered an unprecedented expansion of services and infrastructure into communities in the Deep South that emerged from chattel slavery, the racial terror of lynching, and the funneling of Black tax dollars into segregated public services. Elected representation is a unique and rare opportunity, both for the public servant elected to the seat and for the community of voters responsible for discerning the appropriate candidate for that office. The creation of an additional opportunity district in Alabama would expand avenues for developing new leadersleaders who can help lead a new generation in the task of safeguarding democracy. This is vital to improving the responsiveness of our civic institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, we worked alongside a diverse coalition of advocates to help our neighbors understand the connection between redistricting and the quality of their public services. We used melody and metaphor to tell our redistricting story. Our song, Narissas Home, connects our policy work to the lives of the people living in our communities, especially the peers and mentors we have lost. We received many lessons from those loved ones. Our suit is an expression of our determination to ensure that their lives and lessons continue bearing fruit for our communities. If the Supreme Court rejects Alabamas responsibility to draw two opportunity districts, the court would be ruling against the right of Black people to self-determination. Alabamians in the Black Belt will continue to struggle for access to basic resources as elected officials fail to fully represent their interests. The long struggle toward expanding voting rights in Alabama is not over. We hope the Supreme Court will renew its commitment to guarding personal and shared freedoms to participate in a fair political process. However the court rules, we will continue investing our deepest hope in the ability of our collective advocacy traditions to realize the fullest expression of democracy within our communities. On Monday morning, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson participated in her first oral argument after joining the Supreme Court on June 30. There is no easy first case at the high court, but hers was particularly technical: Mondays case, Sackett v. EPA, seeks to hobble federal protection of wetlands under the Clean Water Act. She came loaded for bear. With precision and confidence, Jackson punctured legal theories designed to let landowners destroy crucial wetlands on their property. She will probably still wind up in dissent. But she is ready to go down swinging. Advertisement Sackett asks the Supreme Court to rewrite a provision of the Clean Water Act that has, for years, shielded wetlands as long as they are near large bodies of water. The CWA was written to protect navigable water like oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams, which it defines as the waters of the United States. But it also protects wetlands adjacent to these larger bodies of water. The Environmental Protection Agency safeguards all water covered by the CWA, strictly limiting discharge, dumping, and other pollution to maintain water quality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sackett saga began in 2007 when Michael and Chantell Sackettwho operate a commercial construction companydumped gravel and sand into wetlands on a parcel of land near Priest Lake, Idaho. The EPA found that this portion of the property included protected wetlands, and halted the Sacketts dumping, citing the possible destruction of the ecosystem. The EPA explained that the CWA shielded these wetlands because they are 30 feet from a tributary of Priest Lake and 300 feet from the lake itself. Because of their proximity, they help preserve Priest Lakes water quality by, among other things, retaining sediment and controlling floods. Advertisement Advertisement Michael and Chantell Sackett disagreed. Now represented by the conservative Pacific Legal Foundation, they argued that the wetlands couldnt be adjacent to Priest Lake under the CWA. Why? Because a road separates the wetlands from the tributary leading to the lake, so the two waters cannot be adjacent to each other. This is not a particularly unique conflict. Wetlands are frequently separated from neighboring waters by construction or natural structures, like a dune. These ecosystems have befuddled SCOTUS in recent years: In 2006s Rapanos v. United States, the Supreme Court split badly over which wetlands are truly adjacent to protected waters. Justice Antonin Scalias plurality opinion demanded a continuous surface connection, whereas Justice Anthony Kennedys concurrence sought only a significant nexus between the waters. Kennedy rejected Scalias bright-line rule, safeguarding wetlands that help maintain the quality of nearby waters even if theres no ongoing surface connection. Advertisement Advertisement Its safe to assume that the Supreme Courts conservative supermajority took up Sackett to overrule Kennedys test and let landowners obliterate wetlands as long as theres no direct, permanent surface-level link to other waters. Theres no value in pretending that the Republican-appointed justices have serious reservations about blowing a hole in the CWA. There is, however, still value in revealing the shoddy, anti-textualist logic behind this assault. And thats what Jackson, a former champion high school debater, did on Monday from start to finish. Advertisement Advertisement The first blow came after the Sacketts lawyer, Pacific Legal Foundations Damien Schiff, tried to argue that adjacent meant physically touching. The problem with this position is that before the CWA, the government defined adjacent to include neighboring, and Congress incorporated that definition into the law. As Jackson asked Schiff: Isnt the issue what Congress would have intended with respect to adjacency? She then reminded him there was a pre-CWA regulation that defined adjacency to include neighboring, concluding that as far as I know, Congress did not add the touching requirement that you say was intended by the term. Advertisement Advertisement Schiff tried to pivot by claiming that the provision of the CWA shielding wetlands is unenlightening when it comes to protected waters. Let me try to bring some enlightenment to it by asking it this way, Jackson cut in. Why would Congress draw the coverage line between abutting wetlands and neighboring wetlands when the objective of the statute is to ensure the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nations waters? In other words, why would Congress exclude wetlands that lie next to nearby watersbut do not flow straight into themwhen these wetlands have a major impact on the quality of those waters? Advertisement Advertisement Justice Ketanji Brown Jacksons first questions from the bench, grilling a lawyer trying to gut the Clean Water Act. When he says a provision of the law is unenlightening, KBJ responds dryly: Let me try to bring some enlightenment to it. pic.twitter.com/1Tyllv0lJr Mark Joseph Stern (@mjs_DC) October 3, 2022 Advertisement Advertisement In attempting to answer the justice this time, Schiff turned to a states rights argument: One of the purposes of the act, he said, is to preserve traditional state authority over land and water resources. Jackson shot back: I didnt read that as a purpose. Congress said: Our objective is to address or make sure that we maintain the integrity of the waters. A few minutes later, she pressed again: Why is it that your conception of this does not relate in any way to Congress primary objective? When Schiff pushed back that Congress wanted to limit federal power, too, Jackson was not phased. So why didnt Congress say immediately adjacent? If they were trying to achieve something different than what the [previous] regulations had said about adjacency, if they were balancing their concerns about protecting the integrity of the navigable waters with the property interests and the states rights to control it, why didnt they say immediately adjacent in terms of the wetlands coverage? Advertisement There was an exciting rhythm to Mondays arguments when Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan teamed up with Jackson. Schiff then declared that if Congress had intended to protect wetlands, it would have put that language in a different section of the law. Jackson sounded incredulous, pointing out that the language appears in a provision explaining what is left to the statesexactly where they would have made clear that wetlands dont count unless theyre touching larger waters. Put simply: Congress put wetland protections exactly where youd expect them to be, and courts have no business narrowing the scope of these protections by adding words (touching, abutting) that dont exist in the statute. When Principal Deputy Solicitor General Brian Fletcher got up to defend the EPAs position, the conservative justices jumped down his throat. Justice Neil Gorsuchwhose mother tried to dismantle EPA while leading it in the 1980sperformed outrage over the plight of homeowners persecuted by government bureaucrats. How, he asked, does any reasonable person know if wetlands on their property are adjacent to protected waters? Would 3,000 feet be close enough? How about three miles? Fletcher tried to explain that the EPA has to study the actual ecosystem to decide if wetlands affect nearby waters, but Gorsuch wasnt deterred: If the federal government doesnt know, he pressed, how is a person subject to criminal time in federal prison supposed to know? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This line of questioning is classic Gorsuch: shallowly persuasive and easily refuted. Jackson then asked Fletcher: Is there a process by which a homeowner can ask? Which, of course, there is: Homeowners can request a free determination from the Army Corps of Engineers. And so, Jackson continued, youre not really facing criminal liability without the opportunity to get an assessment from the government regarding your particular circumstances. You could almost hear the air going out of Gorsuchs balloon. Throughout Mondays arguments, the usual battle lines revealed themselves: The three liberal justices were concerned about the environment; the six conservatives were worried about landowners. The three liberals sought to enforce the text of the statute that Congress wrote; the six conservatives suggested that vague concerns about federalism gave them a license to rewrite the law to their liking. Whats different now is that unlike her predecessor Stephen Breyer, Jackson is a sharp interrogator, fast-paced and adroit, adept at drawing out the feeble reasoning propping up meretricious logic. There was an exciting rhythm to Mondays arguments, especially when Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan teamed up with Jackson to knock down Schiffs weakest claims. Breyer had a habit of bringing arguments to a standstill with endless, convoluted questions that failed to move the needle. So far with Jackson, theres no self-indulgent wheel-spinning, just rapid-fire questions that cut to the heart of the case. This excitement will wear off quickly when Sackett comes down next spring and the Supreme Court dismembers the Clean Water Act by a 63 vote. But theres value in the questioningespecially because right now, its one of the liberal justices few tools for confronting their conservative colleagues sophistry and falsehoods. Jackson may not play a decisive role in any of this terms major cases. But she is already shoring up a newly energized three-justice minority thats prepared to fight it out to the bitter end. Pregnant Scottish woman jailed in Spain for not paying a fine The 32-year-old Brit is seven months pregnant and will likely give birth in a Spanish jail A young Scottish mum-to-be is sitting behind bars in Spain and facing the prospect of giving birth in jail for failing to pay a fine she was issued while on holiday. 32-year-old Jamielee Fielding was slapped with a 420 euro fine for drunk and disorderly behaviour during a trip to Malaga in 2021. She returned home to Livingston without paying it, but was nabbed by airport security when she visited Tenerife last August. Despite offering to pay what she owed in cash at the airport, Jamielee was sentenced to four months in prison in Spain. Speaking to the Scottish press from a hotel room while on weekend release from jail, she said: "It's been unimaginable. I can't contemplate having my baby here in a foreign hospital. "I'm looking for a miracle because right now it doesn't look like there's any way I can get back." The young woman was issued with the two fines last year when she travelled to the Costa del Sol to identify her mothers body, who had died suddenly while on holiday in Malaga. Jamielee admitted that she had not been in the right frame of mind during the ordeal and was arrested for drunken behaviour. Realising that the fines were outstanding, police detained her once she landed back on Spanish soil on August 19 and she is now terrified that her baby will be born in prison. "She's due on 28 November and I've pretty much been told to prepare to have her here." Ms Fielding said. "I will need to have her here because there's no way of reducing the sentence. "I'll need to complete the full four months which take me up to 16 December, so I need to be ready to have her here." Jamielee is currently housed in an open prison but spent the first six weeks incarcerated in the notorious high-security De Tenerife el Rosario prison in Santa Cruz, which she described as a living hell. Back in the UK, local MPs are petitioning for the womans release, describing her treatment as disgusting. Livingston MP Hannah Bardell has called for an investigation by the Foreign Office into the way British citizens are treated by the Spanish authorities. Image: Jamielee Fielding on Facebook 3. Oct 2022 at 1:02 I Modified at 3. Oct 2022 at 9:24 Buses do not stop at Zochova until midday, traffic coordinated by the police. A car crashed into a bus stop in Bratislava on October 2, 2022, killing at least four people. (Source: Fire and Rescue Service/Facebook) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled A car crashed into a bus stop in the Bratislava city centre on Sunday night, claiming four lives. According to PM Eduard Heger, young people are among the victims. Six people suffered injuries, police told the Sme daily. Two of them were put into an induced coma. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement The accident happened shortly after 22:15 at the Zochova bus stop on Staromestska Street, a busy street located close to the Presidential Palace. The street connects the city centre with the most populous Bratislava borough, Petrzalka. Several people were waiting for buses at the time of the accident. (Source: Slovak Police/Facebook) (Source: Slovak Police/Facebook) Many students return to Bratislava on Sunday evening. Some change buses at Zochova to reach the Mlynska Dolina dormitories where Comenius University students live. After arriving at the scene, fire fighters had to free people from the car and from under the car. All rescue services, including 21 fire fighters, were on site during the night. At night, Bratislava mayor Matus Vallo alleged on Facebook that the car driver was under the influence when they sent their car into the bus stop. The information was confirmed by Police Head Stefan Hamran in the morning, the Radio Slovensko public radio reported. The aggressive driver and a person in the passenger seat were detained. The driver's blood alcohol level was 1.6 and the passenger's blood alcohol level was 1, Hamran said. Traffic along Staromestska Street towards Most SNP was closed until the early morning. Police officers are coordinating traffic in the area on the way to Petrzalka. Tailbacks are forming in this part of the city. Public transport lines (31, 39, 80, 83 ,84, 93, 94 and 184) do not stop at Zochova until Monday noon. Buses are being diverted through SNP Square and the Razusovo Nabrezie watefront, Vallo said. Several politicians, including the president and the prime minister, have expressed condolences to the families of four victims and sent wishes and prayers to the injured. The howitzers will be produced in the coming months. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The state-run company Konstrukta Defense will produce another 16 Zuzana 2 self-propelled howitzers for Ukraine. The production worth 92 million will be jointly financed by Denmark, Germany, and Norway. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad (OLaNO) and his Danish counterpart Morten Bdskov signed the agreement on Sunday in Copenhagen, reported Martina Koval Kakascikova, the spokesperson of the ministry. Related article Related article Slovakia still isn't ready to host NATO battle groups permanently Read more Gradual deliveries "Ukrainians need our help in defending their country and people's lives, that is why we are also trying to find all the possibilities at the international level to support them efficiently and in a targeted way," said Nad, going on to explained that artillery systems are a key element of combat support in a wide range of operations. According to the ministry, the howitzers will be produced in the coming months, with gradual deliveries expected from the second half of 2023. In August, Slovakia delivered four out of eight Zuzana 2 howitzers to Ukraine on the basis of a different contract concluded in June. At the time, Nad said that the country had become one of the most significant providers of military assistance to Ukraine. Related article Related article First Zuzana howitzers delivered to Ukraine Read more Various forms of aid Among other military aid being provided is the repair of damaged military vehicles and seized Russian tanks and technology. Slovakia has been actively providing aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded its neighbour. The most notable military aid provided was the donation of its S-300 air defence system. In June, five Soviet-designed attack helicopters and ammunition were also donated. It has also provided Ukraine with mortar and other ammunition, aviation fuel, and the Igla man-portable anti-aircraft system. Mayor of Ladomirova had to be given protection. PM Eduard Heger at the WW1 military cemetery in the village of Ladomirova, eastern Slovakia. (Source: TASR) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Prime Minister Eduard Heger (OLaNO) urged people to be cautious, to verify information on the Internet, and not to fall for hoaxes. On Saturday, October 1, he visited a World War 1 military cemetery in Ladomirova, a municipality in the eastern-Slovak Presov Region. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement In September, the Russian embassy claimed that mayor Vladislav Cuper had had graves of the Russian Tsarist Army soldiers levelled. The information was quickly adopted and spread by the Russian media. At the same time, General Prosecutor Maros Zilinka adopted the Russian Embassy's claims and said he would have them investigated. The police were quick to denounce the claims and called them fabricated lies. Related article Related article Russian graves destroyed? Police say embassy is lying Read more Propaganda target According to Heger, Ladomirova has become a target of propaganda in recent weeks, rousing hatred and anger among people. https://sputniknews.com/20221003/ahead-of-indian-home-ministers-visit-to-kashmir-tensions-grow-over-granting-paharis-tribal-status-1101465980.html Ahead of Indian Home Minister's Visit to Kashmir, Tensions Grow Over Granting Paharis Tribal Status Ahead of Indian Home Minister's Visit to Kashmir, Tensions Grow Over Granting Paharis Tribal Status After Jammu and Kashmir was split up into two union territories in 2019, the federal government made overtures to the local Pahari speaking people, hinting at... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T14:13+0000 2022-10-03T14:13+0000 2022-10-03T14:13+0000 indian home ministry jammu kashmir tribal srinagar /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101468001_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_d5cb1c00fc8543d94eb4bfbc0ec3f6ef.jpg Indian Home Minister Amit Shahs visit to Jammu and Kashmir has brought into focus contentious issues in the region that have been a matter of public debate for weeks now.Regional political parties have issued statements regarding the Federal governments plan to reserve government jobs for the Pahari residents of the region and to establish a cancer treatment hospital in Srinagar city of Kashmir.There has been a modest protest by Jammu and Kashmir's tribal community over the possibility of granting the Pahari speaking people Schedule Tribe (ST) status: tribals, also known as Gujjars and Bakerwals, are up in arms about the plan because they claim Pahari speaking people are not technically a tribe and are not in need of preferential treatment.The tribals now fear Shah might make an official announcement during his visit to give preferential treatment to Paharis especially as state elections are due to be held early in 2023.Showkat Chaudhary of All Jammu and Kashmir Gujjar Bakerwal Coordination Committee said that his community achieved these concessions only after a long struggle, and Paharis did not qualify.Separately, political groups in Kashmir have also expressed their concerns over the Federal governments plan to build a cancer hospital in Srinagar on a large swathe of land known as Eidgah which was previously used by Muslims to offer prayers. Shah is supposed to lay the foundation stone this week.The Hurriyat Conference, a collection of separatist political groups, issued a statement last week in which it said: For Kashmiris, this space is holy and part of their historical, cultural and spiritual heritage. The space should be preserved and any move to strike at the heart of Kashmir's spirit must be abandoned.The group was referring to a Martyrs graveyard where scores of people killed during the three-decade insurgency are buried. jammu kashmir srinagar Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Azaan Javaid https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094183852_0:0:1080:1080_100x100_80_0_0_1fd4d8740a02742b3f72f82306742213.jpg Azaan Javaid https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094183852_0:0:1080:1080_100x100_80_0_0_1fd4d8740a02742b3f72f82306742213.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Azaan Javaid https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094183852_0:0:1080:1080_100x100_80_0_0_1fd4d8740a02742b3f72f82306742213.jpg indian home ministry, jammu, kashmir, tribal, srinagar https://sputniknews.com/20221003/crimea-formally-part-of-russia-elon-musk-lays-out-russia-ukraine-peace-plan-1101476178.html 'Crimea Formally Part of Russia': Elon Musk Lays Out Russia-Ukraine Peace Plan 'Crimea Formally Part of Russia': Elon Musk Lays Out Russia-Ukraine Peace Plan Western and Ukrainian media reported last month that Moscow and Kiev had been on the brink of reaching a peace deal in the spring, and that now ex-British... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T17:31+0000 2022-10-03T17:31+0000 2022-10-03T17:34+0000 viral elon musk ukraine russia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/06/08/1096132787_0:0:2995:1685_1920x0_80_0_0_67b68353c7ef60b809fc26d6b15860c0.jpg SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk has given his take on how to end the crisis between Russia and Ukraine.This is highly likely to be the outcome in the end just a question of how many die before then. Also worth noting that a possible, albeit unlikely, outcome from this conflict is nuclear war, Musk warned.The businessmen included a poll in his original post, with over 447,000 followers voting as of this writing. The margin was split 46 yes to 53 no on Musks proposal.Wonder how many bots were activated to turn around the original result, one person asked. Indeed. Biggest bot attack Ive ever seen, Musk replied.Teslas stocks tumbled nearly 9 percent after Musk's peace plan tweet.The South African-born billionaire has repeatedly weighed in on the crisis in Ukraine in recent months, reportedly expressing concerns about the prospect of World War III breaking out as one of the reasons why he scuttled his plans to purchase Twitter earlier this year.In May, Musk took flak from now former Roscosmos chief Dmitri Rogozin, who accused him of supporting neo-Nazi fighters in Ukraine by providing the Ukrainian military with Starlink satellite internet terminals.The Donetsk and Lugansk Peoples Republics and the Russian-administered areas of Kherson and Zaporozhye joined Russia after their leaders signed accession agreements in the Kremlin on Friday. The territories became part of Russia after status referendums were held September 23-27, in which between 87-99 percent of each regions residents voted in favor.Crimea joined Russia after a referendum in March 2014 in which an overwhelming majority of residents similarly voted in favor of doing so. The peninsula had been part of Russia since its conquest by Catherine the Great before being handed over to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic by Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev as an internal administrative division within the Soviet Union in 1954. When the USSR collapsed, it temporarily became part of Ukraine before rejoining Russia. https://sputniknews.com/20220907/elon-musk-reportedly-said-twitter-deal-wouldnt-make-sense-if-were-heading-into-world-war-3-1100490341.html https://sputniknews.com/20170316/crimea-anniversary-referendum-1051633689.html russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov elon musk, ukraine, russia https://sputniknews.com/20221003/eu-risks-financial-crisis-disintegration-if-it-continues-to-pour-billions-into-ukraine-say-experts-1101466676.html EU Risks Financial Crisis, Disintegration If It Continues To Pour Billions Into Ukraine, Say Experts EU Risks Financial Crisis, Disintegration If It Continues To Pour Billions Into Ukraine, Say Experts The Biden administration has pledged to provide $1.5Bln a month to Kiev to keep the Ukrainian economy afloat and is pushing the EU to commit to a similar... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T13:40+0000 2022-10-03T13:40+0000 2022-10-03T13:40+0000 opinion & analysis europe opinion us natural gas energy crisis ukraine inflation recession /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/104055/81/1040558180_20:0:982:541_1920x0_80_0_0_79def0609d7a886c5611a72c7d86e3a5.jpg "Since the beginning of the 'Ukraine issue' back in 2008 to 2014, it was clear to me that the Anglosphere has used it as a Trojan horse to check both EU [Germany] and Russia," says Paolo Raffone, a strategic analyst and director of the CIPI Foundation in Brussels. "The EU leadership is fundamentally working against European interests, abiding by the policy dictated by the US/UK/NATO. No doubt the EU will be saddled with the greatest share of rebuilding Ukraine that will be, together with Poland, a US/UK strategic fiefdom in Eastern Europe to separate the EU from Russia and therefore stymie Germany's heft as a regional and global player. [This is] just like the 1901 Mackinder theory."The Biden administration has vowed to support Kiev with $1.5Bln a month in economic aid and has approved $4.5Bln in grants for Ukraine to cover the country's needs until the end of the year. The White House has held talks with EU officials pressing them to follow suit to keep Ukraine's economy afloat, Bloomberg wrote on Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter. According to the International Monetary Fund, Ukraine needs roughly $5Bln per month to cover essential services.Meanwhile, the EU has yet to deliver on its commitments of nearly 9Bln euros ($8.8Bln) for Kiev: the bloc paid out only 1Bln euros last summer. Another 5Bln euros have been allocated but not yet paid out to Ukraine; the rest of the sum remains stuck over formal and financial issues.The aforementioned delays are understandable given that "Europeans are now in total disarray over funding subsidies to their consumers and industry for relief from the impossibly high energy bills that are now being sent out by electricity suppliers," Gilbert Doctorow, an international relations analyst, said.The EU is facing nothing short of "a continent-wide recession", Bloomberg noted on 28 September, predicting a "harsh winter" for Europes households, chemical producers, steel plants, and car manufacturers. "If the coming months turn especially icy and the blocs 27 members fail to share scarce fuel supplies efficiently," the European economy could contract by as much as 5 percent, according to the Bloomberg Economics' estimates.Earlier, the Wall Street Journal revealed that European manufacturers are increasingly shifting their business to the US as the energy crunch bites. To complicate matters further, the sabotage attack on the Nord Stream pipeline system put a rocket under energy prices and cut Europe's access to additional volumes of affordable fuel.According to Raffone, the split among EU countries is already a reality. To illustrate his point he refers to Berlin's unilateral decision to allocate 200Bln euros ($194Bln) to shield the country's population from surging energy prices. Other EU governments are struggling to solve their crises on their own. Meanwhile, if Italy's new government fails to steer the country out of the fiscal crisis, the nation's economy could detonate and cause the EU's disintegration, Raffone alleges.Even though technically the EU can "feed" Ukraine regularly, it would be politically disastrous under the present circumstances, he warns. https://sputniknews.com/20220930/observers-a-big-winner-from-nord-stream-destruction-is-us-1101371764.html https://sputniknews.com/20221001/without-russian-gas-eu-will-become-hopelessly-reliant-on-american-frackers-study-warns-1101421639.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ekaterina Blinova europe, opinion, us, natural gas, energy crisis, ukraine, inflation, recession https://sputniknews.com/20221003/former-clinton-aide-hillary-is-planning-2024-presidential-run-1101448111.html Former Clinton Aide: Hillary is Planning 2024 Presidential Run Former Clinton Aide: Hillary is Planning 2024 Presidential Run A recent poll by ABC News and the Washington Post found that 56% of registered Democratic voters would prefer someone besides Joe Biden as the partys 2024... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T03:23+0000 2022-10-03T03:23+0000 2022-10-03T03:23+0000 americas us hillary clinton 2024 us presidential elections joe biden /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/05/0e/1095503660_0:0:2979:1677_1920x0_80_0_0_febb69b93d6e01ed04305e1367da9729.jpg A former aide to Bill Clinton says Hillary Clinton is positioning herself for another run at the Presidency and is attacking Bidens immigration policy in an attempt to appear more centrist than President Biden.According to Dick Morris, a political consultant and former aide to Bill Clinton, Hillary is setting herself up to be the moderate choice for Democrats in the 2024 election.Morris says that the former First Lady is using the same playbook that he wrote for Bill Clinton in 1992. On MSNBC last month, Clinton criticized Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for flying migrants from Texas to Marthas Vineyard in Massachusetts. During that interview, she mentioned open borders, a term republicans have been using to attack President Biden.Nobody wants open borders who has any idea of how governments and countries work, she stated on MSNBCs Morning Joe.Morris believes Biden will decide at some point to not run for reelection, which will result in more leftist candidates leading in the polls, prompting party leadership to tap Hillary to run for the nomination.Hillary Clinton ran for the Democratic nomination in 2008 before losing to Barack Obama. She ran again in 2016 and secured the nomination, defeating leftist Vermont Independent Senator Bernie Sanders in a primary that was closer than expected. She then lost to Donald Trump in the general election and was one of the least popular candidates in modern American political history.Biden has consistently insisted that he is planning on running in 2024, despite near-constant speculation that the 79-year-old may not run again, even from members of his party.If Biden does drop out and Clinton secures the nomination, we may see a 2016 rematch. Trump currently leads the polling for the Republican nomination by a wide margin. He is expected to announce his intentions for the 2024 race after this years midterm elections. https://sputniknews.com/20220907/russian-collusion-hillary-clinton-trolled-after-admitting-leaving-daughter-stranded-in-kremlin-1100501877.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ian DeMartino Ian DeMartino News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ian DeMartino us, hillary clinton, 2024 us presidential elections, joe biden https://sputniknews.com/20221003/lavrov-russia-unlike-us-fighting-for-safety-of-homeland-not-against-imaginary-threats-1101469156.html Lavrov: Russia Unlike US Fighting for Safety of Homeland, Not Against 'Imaginary Threats' Lavrov: Russia Unlike US Fighting for Safety of Homeland, Not Against 'Imaginary Threats' MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia is not fighting with "imaginary threats" in foreign countries unlike the United States but is defending its national borders and the... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T13:26+0000 2022-10-03T13:26+0000 2022-10-03T14:39+0000 russia russia sergei lavrov /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/06/1e/1096838845_0:0:3001:1688_1920x0_80_0_0_ef8b2f996933b5ab9a54fdefef210c5f.jpg "We are not responding to imaginary threats in distant countries. We are defending our borders, our homeland, and all of our people from the real genocide perpetrated by the descendants and followers of Nazi henchmen who have gone into the service of their overseas masters," Lavrov said at the Russian lower house's meeting on the ratification of the agreements on the accession of new territories to the country.In this context, the Russian foreign minister recalled and condemned the West's fight against illusory security threats in other states.He dismissed Washington's claims that Russia attacked Ukraine due to it choosing the path of democracy, and noted that it is the US that has been continuously using force across the world for far-fetched reasons.According to Lavrov, this time, the US has subjugated almost the entire collective West, mobilizing it to turn Ukraine into a tool to fight against Russia in the same way as "Hitler once put most of Europe under arms to attack the Soviet Union."Last Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and the heads of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republic, as well as the Kherson and Zaporozhye regions signed agreements on the accession of the territories to Russia and the establishment of new subjects within the country. Now, after the ratification of the documents by Russia's lower house, the accession laws need to be approved by the upper house the Federation Council. The decision will be made at a meeting on October 4. russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia, sergei lavrov Kiev Uses New Type of Missiles for HIMARS Launchers to Shell Lugansk - LPR Mission to JCCC STAROBILSK, LPR (Sputnik) - Ukrainian troops started using a new type of missiles for the US multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) HIMARS during the shelling of the Lugansk peoples republic (LPR), the LPR representative office in the Joint Center for Control and Coordination of the ceasefire regime (JCCC) said in a statement on Monday. "They haven't used missiles of this type before. This is the second settlement where they have worked out this type of missiles. This missile, the M30, is fired from the M142 HIMARS installation. Prior to that, the LPR representative office in the JCCC recently recorded the use of missiles of this type in the city of Brianka, and today we are seeing the same picture in the city of Starobilsk," an officer of the JCCC Aleksey Getmansky said. Getmansky clarified that the new type of missiles is distinguished by the shrapnel form of the striking elements. Shrapnel shell consists of small diameter balls made of tungsten. This type of missile is designed to destroy "enemy manpower", but since the missile hit the center of the city with no military facilities, it means that civilians were the target, according to the officer. Earlier in the day, the LPR representative office in the JCCC reported that at 01:40 a.m. Moscow time (22:40 GMT), Ukrainian troops struck Starobilsk from the US MLRS M142 HIMARS, during which a kindergarten, three residential buildings and a local stadium were damaged. The high mobility artillery rocket system M142 (HIMARS) was developed in the US by the UK BAE Systems and the US Lockheed Martin defense contractors in the late 1990s, and has been produced since 2003. It is based on a three-axle wheeled chassis of the US army's family of medium tactical vehicles truck, and is capable of launching six rockets or one ATACMS surface-to-surface tactical ballistic missile. The effective firing range of certain types of projectiles is up to 80 kilometers (50 miles). https://sputniknews.com/20221003/moscow-catches-blinken-letting-slip-us-motive-for-sabotaging-nord-stream-1101470125.html Moscow Catches Blinken Letting Slip US Motive for Sabotaging Nord Stream Moscow Catches Blinken Letting Slip US Motive for Sabotaging Nord Stream Nord Stream 1 and 2 suffered fuel leaks after experiencing rapid pressure drops last Monday, with Moscow deeming the incidents acts of sabotage and... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T13:58+0000 2022-10-03T13:58+0000 2022-10-03T13:58+0000 nord stream sabotage nord stream russia maria zakharova antony blinken sabotage motive /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/05/04/1095271576_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_57a1b5ed6195c617de7e9219833fbd63.jpg Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has caught US Secretary Antony Blinken letting slip the possible motive for Washington to sabotage the Nord Stream pipelines.Citing a press conference in Washington, DC that Blinken held with his Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly on September 30, Zakharova suggested that the US top diplomat openly, without any embarrassment, spoke about the motives the US and its NATO partners have for disrupting the Russian infrastructure.In the presser, when asked about the consequences Europe would face if the Nord Stream network was permanently taken offline, Blinken assured that the United States has significantly increased its liquefied natural gas (LNG) production and improved availability for buyers in Europe.The diplomat characterized the Nord Stream crisis as an opportunity, rather than the economic and social disaster that its shaping up to be for countries across the European region.Drop curtain, Zakharova quipped in response.The Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman also dismissed Blinkens allegations about Russias supposed weaponization of energy.Russia has never used energy as a weapon. Russia and the USSR before it simply supplied gas to Europe. Uninterrupted. For fifty years. Washingtons lies only confirm its criminal manipulation of the subject, she emphasized.Gas WarsThe suspected sabotage of Nord Stream 1 and 2 comes amid growing fears inside the European Union that the United States is trying to take advantage of the dramatic downturn energy deliveries from Russia to push its more expensive LNP on its allies.Last month, a study by German gas industry association Zukunft Gas by Cologne Universitys Energy Economics Institute calculated that without Russian gas, the United States could take up to 40 percent of the European gas market. The study expects gas prices to remain 400 percent above their pre-crisis levels as late as 2026, and to come down to 2018 levels only by 2030. Even then, this will be possible only if European nations reduce consumption by 20 percent by finding efficiencies and alternative sources of energy, according to the institute.In the wake of the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis this past spring, Moscow has repeatedly expressed its readiness to continue selling Russian energy resources to its partners including long-term gas contracts priced in rubles to unfriendly powers. President Putin characterized European efforts to cut themselves off from Russian energy as suicidal, and accused the United States of coercing Brussels to stop buying Russian gas so that Us energy companies could sell it to their allies for three times the price. As recently as late last month, the Russian president emphasized that Russia would be able to turn on Nord Stream 1 and 2 tomorrow if European countries dropped sanctions which were preventing their maintenance and operation. Last Friday, commenting on the sabotage attacks against the pipelines, Putin charged the Anglo-Saxons with causing the explosions to destroy Europes entire energy infrastructure.Gas Infrastructure Europe (GIE), an association of European gas infrastructure operators, indicated on Sunday that gas offtake from underground gas storage sites had exceeded gas being put in for the first time since spring, and indicated that reserves are presently filled to 87.83 percent capacity, or 95 billion cubic meters of gas.On Monday, the International Energy Agency warned that the storage facilities would drop to 5 percent full by February if Russian supplies were cut off and deliveries of LNG remain limited.Before the sabotage, Nord Stream 1 and 2 had the capacity to pump up to 110 billion cubic meters of gas per year (cu3/yr) from Russia to Germany via the bottom of the Baltic Sea. Russia also operates the Soviet-era Yamal-Europe pipeline, which can normally send up to 33 billion cu3/yr to Poland and Germany via Belarus. However, authorities in Warsaw cut off the flow of the pipeline in the summer and turned it on in reverse flow, thus stripping Europe of another 33 billion cu3/yr in capacity. The Soyuz (Union) is another Soviet-era pipeline, this one with a capacity of 26.1 billion cu3/yr. The pipeline runs through Ukraine, and flows have slowed amid the security crisis in that country. Finally, there is TurkStream, a gas pipeline pumping up to 31.5 billion cu3/yr to Turkey and Southeastern Europe along the bottom of the Black Sea. Until recently, TurkStream has been the most reliable among all of the aforementioned pipelines since the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis. However, late last month, Gazprom warned that Western sanctions were hindering some of the maintenance and repair work on the TurkStream network. https://sputniknews.com/20221003/pressure-in-both-damaged-nord-stream-gas-pipelines-stabilized-no-more-gas-leaks-gazprom-1101459691.html https://sputniknews.com/20221002/germany-may-initiate-own-probe-into-nord-stream-incident-justice-minister-says-1101441929.html https://sputniknews.com/20221002/eu-takes-more-gas-than-puts-in-storage-facilities-operator-1101434192.html russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov nord stream, russia, maria zakharova, antony blinken, sabotage, motive https://sputniknews.com/20221003/new-york-experiencing-a-backlog-of-illegal-rent-hike-complaints-in-stabilized-apartments--1101447527.html New York Experiencing a Backlog of Illegal Rent Hike Complaints in Stabilized Apartments New York Experiencing a Backlog of Illegal Rent Hike Complaints in Stabilized Apartments New York City first enacted a rent stabilization system in 1969 to protect renters from dramatic increases in their rent and allow renters to renew their... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T02:22+0000 2022-10-03T02:22+0000 2022-10-03T02:22+0000 americas rent right to rent renting new york new york city /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/09/09/1100616094_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_761c307c1aa30fa42ad37cf1084b0f80.jpg On Sunday the New York Daily News reported that there has been a backlog of complaints at the Office of Rent Administration with some complaints as old as four years. The administration is responsible for investigating incidents such as when a landlord may illegally overcharge a renter in a rent stabilized apartment.New York State Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher (D-Brooklyn) learned of the backlog while investigating a case for one of her constituents. The news of a backlog at the administration is dire, because even though it is illegal under state law to overcharge a tenant in a rent stabilized apartment, if the person committing that crime does not meet the consequences of the jurisdiction they are breaking there is nothing stopping them from forcing their renter to pay the unlawful sum for housing.The administration has only 27 employees to process over 20,000 complaints of illegal rental overcharges per year. In addition to the agencys lack of staff, many tenants are also unaware of their rights. According to John Paraskevopoulos, the legislative director for Gallagher, sometimes the fastest way for a tenant to have their case heard is to go to court when their landlord is threatening them with homelessness and they can be given the power of an attorney for free.Andrea Shapiro, a tenant advocate with the Met Council on Housing, clarified the gravity of some of those complaints being at least four years old.Before a landlord raises the rent in a rent stabilized apartment the increase must be statutorily approved: even if the landlord makes costly improvements to the building or to a specific apartment, all rent increases in the state of New York must be approved by the state Department of Homes and Community Renewal before a landlord can increase rent costs.The largest price hike in almost a decade for New York renters went into effect on October 1. Those looking to renew their leases through September 30, 2023, will face an increase of 3.25% on their leases while those hoping to renew their lease for two years will face a spike of 5% to their rent costs. The increase comes after the Rent Guidelines Board voted in June to allow rent increases after spikes were paused in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 2 million New Yorkers living in rent-stabilized apartments will be affected by the increases. https://sputniknews.com/20220328/rent-in-us-continue-to-rise-while-real-estate-firms-pocket-the-profit-1094273019.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Mary Manley https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Mary Manley https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg rent, right to rent, renting, new york, new york city https://sputniknews.com/20221003/official-position-us-envoy-under-fire-for-referring-to-pakistan-administered-kashmir-as-azad-jk-1101458206.html Official Position? US Envoy Under Fire for Referring to Pakistan-Administered Kashmir as Azad J&K Official Position? US Envoy Under Fire for Referring to Pakistan-Administered Kashmir as Azad J&K While separate parts of Jammu and Kashmir region are controlled by India and Pakistan, the two neighboring countries dispute each others claims. India, for... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T11:47+0000 2022-10-03T11:47+0000 2022-10-03T11:47+0000 india us pakistan kashmir subrahmanyam jaishankar f-16 /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101461925_0:360:767:791_1920x0_80_0_0_ed69a08acdf1eae1a32c125270057127.jpg American ambassador to Islamabad Donald Blome stirred up a big row in India after he embarked on a trip to Pakistan-administered Kashmir on Sunday. The unannounced visit came to light after the American embassy in Islamabad tweeted pictures of Blome visiting a historical site near Muzaffarabad, the biggest city in the region. It was the American ambassadors maiden trip to this region, which Islamabad refers to as Azad (free) Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).The Ambassador recalled that the building had been damaged during an earthquake in 2005, as he lauded the local governments efforts in beautifully restoring the site.The US has helped to restore 32 historic and cultural sites around Pakistan, totaling more than $7.1 million. These projects show the respect & admiration the U.S. has for Pakistan, its culture, and its people, Blome stated.On Monday, the US Embassy posted more pictures of Blomes ongoing trip to the region. According to the embassy, Blome visited the 17th century Muzaffarabad Fort as well as met several local artisans during his engagements.Calling the region AJK, however, hasnt gone down well with many Indians, who have cautioned the American diplomat that such a usage is ill-advised.Another Indian social media user questioned Washington whether it has officially recognized PoK as AJK. "PoK is Azad Kashmir. The official position of the natural ally of India?" asked the user.The criticism of American envoy comes against the backdrop of growing concerns in India about rising defense and political ties between US and Pakistan. During a visit to Washington last month, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar questioned the merits of US-Pakistan defense cooperation weeks after Washington approved a $450 million sustenance package for Pakistans F-16 fighter jet fleet.At an event in Gujarat over weekend, Jaishankar renewed his criticism about Pakistan, calling it an expert in international terrorism.On the other hand, the US designated India as a major defense partner in 2016 and has described New Delhi as a key partner in its Indo-Pacific Strategy which was declassified in 2020 before former president Donald Trump left office.Indian observers have questioned the logic of US designating India as a key partner on the one hand while overlooking New Delhis concerns on the Kashmir issue.Earlier this year, New Delhi came down heavily on US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar for undertaking a visit to Pakistan-administered Kashmir. At the time, the Indian Foreign Ministry accused Omar of violating Indias sovereignty." https://sputniknews.com/20220927/us-risks-returning-to-its-traditional-policy-of-hyphenating-india-with-pakistan-under-biden-1101270416.html kashmir Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Dhairya Maheshwari Dhairya Maheshwari News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Dhairya Maheshwari us, pakistan, kashmir, subrahmanyam jaishankar, f-16 https://sputniknews.com/20221003/pakistan-court-dismisses-contempt-case-against-former-pm-imran-khan--1101461067.html Pakistan Court Dismisses Contempt Case Against Former PM Imran Khan Pakistan Court Dismisses Contempt Case Against Former PM Imran Khan In August, Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan made controversial remarks against Additional District and Sessions Judge Zeba Chaudhry, after which a... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T11:51+0000 2022-10-03T11:51+0000 2022-10-03T12:04+0000 india pakistan pakistan tehreek-e-insaf (pti) imran khan contempt of court contempt contempt contempt proceedings /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101462509_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_ba672181136ea4aee0c31f2467737a97.jpg The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday withdrew the contempt charges against Pakistan Tehreek-e Insaf (PTI) party leader Imran Khan in a case which related to the threatening of a female judge. In its observation, a five-member bench, headed by IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah, said they're satisfied with the apology made by Khan last week.Soon after Khan's comment, the IHC unanimously initiated contempt of court proceedings against Khan, the PTI chief and former Prime Minister.Last week on Friday, the PTI chairman reached Islamabad lower court to personally apologize to Chaudhry -- but the judge was on leave. Khan further stated that he would never do anything in the future that might hurt the dignity of any court or the judiciary. However, on the same evening, a magistrate issued an arrest warrant against him in the same matter.Khan, on Sunday, was granted interim bail until October 7th by the Islamabad High Court after his lawyer deposited a sum of 10,000 Pakistani rupees ($44). https://sputniknews.com/20220930/imran-khan-reaches-court-to-tender-apology-for-criticizing-female-judge--but-she-wont-show-up-1101368295.html pakistan Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Deexa Khanduri https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0c/1e/1081607388_0:0:961:960_100x100_80_0_0_e9e931b8c1e18fb41f3074e2145d7a3a.jpg Deexa Khanduri https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0c/1e/1081607388_0:0:961:960_100x100_80_0_0_e9e931b8c1e18fb41f3074e2145d7a3a.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Deexa Khanduri https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0c/1e/1081607388_0:0:961:960_100x100_80_0_0_e9e931b8c1e18fb41f3074e2145d7a3a.jpg pakistan, pakistan, tehreek-e-insaf (pti), imran khan, contempt of court, contempt, contempt, contempt proceedings https://sputniknews.com/20221003/poland-slaps-germany-with-13-trillion-bill-for-wwii-including-for-crimes-against-jews-by-poles-1101475217.html Poland Slaps Germany With $1.3 Trillion Bill for WWII, Including For Crimes Against Jews by Poles Poland Slaps Germany With $1.3 Trillion Bill for WWII, Including For Crimes Against Jews by Poles Polands ruling Law and Justice party (Polish acronym PiS) announced last month that it would be demanding 6.2 trillion zlotys ($1.3 trillion US) from Germany... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T18:29+0000 2022-10-03T18:29+0000 2022-10-03T18:30+0000 world compensation reparations poland russia germany nazi germany world war ii second world war /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101475071_0:41:800:491_1920x0_80_0_0_ba14bd98f8db1288cfabe62bc6d90887.jpg Polands foreign minister has officially signed and dispatched a note to Berlin demanding reparations for World War II.The diplomatic note that I have just signed will be forwarded to the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It expresses the conviction that the parties should take immediate steps aimed at ensuring a permanent and final, legal and material settlement on the issue of the consequences of the German aggression and occupation of 1939-1945, Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau said Monday.Rau said the note includes a demand for German payment of compensation for material and non-material damage incurred by the Polish state, the systematic liquidation of Polish cultural values and the return of stolen wealth and assets of Polish state banks.PiS president Jaroslaw Kaczynski tabled the demand for compensation on September 1 and the 83rd anniversary of the beginning of the conflict.German officials politely balked at the demands, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Christopher Burger saying that the matter was closed from the point of view of the federal government.Poland long ago, in 1953, waived further reparations and has repeatedly confirmed this waiver. This is a significant basis for todays European order. Germany stands by its responsibility for World War II politically and morally, Burger said.The PiS government has rejected the terms of the 1953 waiver, suggesting Polands post-war communist government was pressured into abandoning the reparations demands by Moscow.Notwithstanding the waiver, Germany and Austria have already paid out billions of euros-worth of compensation to Polish survivors of Nazi medical experiments, victims of slave labor and certain categories of pensioners, with most of these funds paid out in the 1990s and 2000s.German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is expected to visit Warsaw on Tuesday, where the issue of reparations will be raised. Baerbock commented on the immeasurable suffering that Germany brought to the people of Poland during World War II in a speech on Monday, but did not touch on the reparations issue directly.Tensions between Germany and Poland escalated last month after Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of the German-Polish normalization of relations agreements reached under former West German Chancellor Willy Brandt in the 1970s in a speech alongside former Polish prime minister Donald Tusk. And I would not like to see some people rummage through history books to introduce revisionist border changes, Scholz said.Polish officials and media interpreted Scholzs comments as a threat, and Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki attacked the chancellor on Twitter as a devil [who] has dressed himself in vestments and is ringing for Mass.Along with Germany, Warsaw has also threatened to demand reparations from Russia. Russian officials have dismissed these claims full stop, recalling the Red Armys role in liberating Poland from the Nazis, and Moscows efforts to endow the country with its present borders with Germany.Opponents of the reparations demands against Germany have questioned the logic of Warsaws request. Last month, Polish-born Holocaust researcher and University of Ottawa professor Jan Grabowski told Israeli media that the compensation being sought by Warsaw includes damages for Polish Jews who were murdered by ethnic Poles, without German involvement. https://sputniknews.com/20220916/polish-media-accuses-berlin-of-seeking-to-revise-border-amid-warsaws-wwii-reparations-demands-1100861555.html poland russia germany Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov compensation, reparations, poland, russia, germany, nazi germany, world war ii, second world war https://sputniknews.com/20221003/pressure-in-both-damaged-nord-stream-gas-pipelines-stabilized-no-more-gas-leaks-gazprom-1101459691.html Pressure in Both Damaged Nord Stream Gas Pipelines Stabilized, No More Gas Leaks: Gazprom Pressure in Both Damaged Nord Stream Gas Pipelines Stabilized, No More Gas Leaks: Gazprom MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The pressure in the damaged lines of the Nord Stream and the Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines has stabilized and there are no more gas leaks... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T10:43+0000 2022-10-03T10:43+0000 2022-10-03T10:48+0000 nord stream sabotage nord stream ag gazprom /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/09/1d/1101346542_0:44:839:516_1920x0_80_0_0_e291252f9a9c4c28bc6fce9ff4486ffc.jpg "The pressure in line A of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline and both lines of the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline has stabilized after the ruptures, gas leaks have stopped," Gazprom said on Telegram.The company stated that it is also working to reduce the pressure in the intact line of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.Gazprom added that if the decision is made to restart deliveries via the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, the company will pump the natural gas back into the pipeline after all the necessary inspections concerning the integrity of the line are made.Moreover, on September 26, a rapid gas pressure drop and leakage of fuel were registered on two Nord Stream pipelines that play a key role in the transition of Russian gas to Europe. The Swedish and Danish authorities said they had discovered two gas leaks. The Russian Prosecutor General's Office is investigating the pipeline incidents as acts of international terrorism. Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International nord stream ag, gazprom https://sputniknews.com/20221003/russian-republic-of-buryatia-offers-to-open-direct-air-communication-with-nepal-1101452231.html Russian Republic of Buryatia Offers to Open Direct Air Communication With Nepal Russian Republic of Buryatia Offers to Open Direct Air Communication With Nepal KRASNOYARSK (Sputnik) - The authorities of the Russian Republic of Buryatia have proposed to open direct air communication with Nepal along the route Ulan-Ude... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T06:53+0000 2022-10-03T06:53+0000 2022-10-03T06:53+0000 russia ulan-ude nepal republic of buryatia russia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101452019_0:135:3161:1913_1920x0_80_0_0_8315679085064122273cc073ee4ed8a8.jpg "We have discussed promising areas of cooperation: this is the opening of an air connection with Nepal. Now we will work with our aviation companies in the format of a working discussion of this issue. We propose to launch a Ulan-Ude - Kathmandu flight, since Ulan-Ude has already become a gateway to Asia," Tsydenov said in a statement following the meeting.The opening of air communication will contribute to the development of tourism between the two countries, given that many Russians want to visit Nepal and many of Nepal's citizens seek to enjoy the views of Lake Baikal, Tsydenov added.During the meeting, Buryatia's authorities have also presented the options to supply helicopters from the Ulan-Ude aircraft plant and spare parts for helicopters already in operation in Nepal, the statement read.On Saturday, Head of Buryatia Alexey Tsydenov held a meeting with Milan Raj Tuladhar, the Nepali ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to Russia. The officials discussed the economic potential of bilateral cooperation and inter-state tourism.There is only one international airport in Nepal the Tribhuvan International Airport in the east of Kathmandu. The airport has direct air communication only with 17 countries and none of them is located in Europe, North America and Australia. ulan-ude nepal republic of buryatia russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ulan-ude, nepal, republic of buryatia, russia https://sputniknews.com/20221003/south-african-president-ramaphosa-to-pay-visit-to-uk-king-charles-iii-1101449644.html South African President Ramaphosa to Pay Visit to UK King Charles III South African President Ramaphosa to Pay Visit to UK King Charles III The South African president was greeted by the late Queen Elizabeth II during his visit to Windsor Castle in 2018. The late Queen gave him two letters that... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T08:44+0000 2022-10-03T08:44+0000 2022-10-03T08:44+0000 africa africa south africa cyril ramaphosa /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101455963_0:0:3071:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_c77671ff29d9a6988c82d4c17c54d4a4.jpg King Charles III is expected to host South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his wife in Buckingham Palace in late November, according to the palace's statement on Monday.This event will be the first state visit for the UK's new king.Besides the King, Queen Consort Camilla is also expected to greet Ramaphosa and South Africa's first lady Tshepo Motsepe.According to Sky News, the African leaders visit had been planned before Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8.In accordance with protocol, all the decisions on who should be welcomed in the palace are made by the Foreign Office and are viewed as an "ultimate diplomatic gift" to the countries considered to be strategically important to the UK from the standpoint of trade and security cooperation.Ramaphosa has visited the UK several times. The most recent visit came on September 17-19, when the president attended events related to the Queen's state funeral in London. In June last year, he participated in the G7 Leaders' Summit in Cornwall. In October 2019, Ramaphosa visited the UK to take part in the Financial Times Africa Summit, an annual event organized by the newspaper of the same name, aiming to discuss current business affairs in African countries. In 2018, the South African president attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.Four out of five South African presidents, including Ramaphosa, have visited the UK in an official capacity. Nelson Mandela paid a visit in 1996, Thabo Mbeki in 2001, and Jacob Zuma in 2010. The countrys third president Kgalema Motlanthe also visited the United Kingdom in 2014, however, at the time he held the post of deputy president.For his part, Charles III had been to South Africa several times before taking the throne.In February 1997 he, along with his youngest son Prince Harry, paid a visit to South Africa, where he met the first president of post-apartheid South Africa, activist Nelson Mandela. Then, he visited the nation in 2011 accompanied by his wife.Charles last trip to South Africa was in 2013, when he attended Mandelas funeral.Charles III ascended to the throne in the wake of his mothers death, who went down in history as the UK's longest-serving monarch. https://sputniknews.com/20220930/south-africas-ramaphosa-denies-money-laundering-allegations-over-limpopo-game-farm-theft-1101371367.html https://sputniknews.com/20220916/biden-may-squeeze-ramaphosa-to-alter-stance-on-ukraine-but-south-africa-is-no-pawn-profs-say-1100847488.html africa south africa Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Olga Borodkina Olga Borodkina News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Olga Borodkina africa, south africa, cyril ramaphosa https://sputniknews.com/20221003/tplf-says-withdrew-troops-from-ethiopias-amhara-afar-to-meet-elusive-eritrean-offensive-1101478483.html TPLF Says Withdrew Troops From Ethiopias Amhara, Afar, to Meet Elusive Eritrean Offensive TPLF Says Withdrew Troops From Ethiopias Amhara, Afar, to Meet Elusive Eritrean Offensive The Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF) has claimed for more than a month that Eritrea had invaded Ethiopias Tigray state from the north, but recent... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T20:58+0000 2022-10-03T20:58+0000 2022-10-03T20:58+0000 africa ethiopia eritrea tplf (tigray people's liberation front) amhara state civil war /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101478656_0:14:2048:1166_1920x0_80_0_0_1e1e789086f746dcb529906d58444f6a.jpg The TPLF said on Sunday it was withdrawing its forces from northern Amhara and western Afar in order to counter what it claims is a joint offensive being led by Eritrea.In a statement posted on Twitter on Sunday, TPLF spokesperson Getachew Reda claimed that the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) had lost tens of thousands of troops and materiel attempting to take back North Wollo, a region of northern Amhara the TPLF invaded in late August.Now that [the] Abiy Regime's repeated counter-offensives in this front have been effectively thwarted and the regime has now fully handed over its resources to Isaias Afeworki, our forces are being redeployed to better confront head-on threats elsewhere and reverse the second round of genocidal campaign waged by the twin tyrants in the Horn.The TPLF launched its attack on Amhara and Afar on August 24, and a week later on August 31, claimed that Eritrea had invaded Tigray in four directions in conjunction with an ENDF offensive from western parts of Tigray it has long occupied. Eritrea fought alongside Ethiopia in the first round of the war, from November 2020 until December 2021, having recently forged an alliance after ending a 20-year-long war that had been started by the TPLF in 1998, when it was still the ruling party in Ethiopia.However, to date, the TPLFs claims remain the only source of information about the supposed Eritrean offensive aside from Mike Hammer, the US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, who claimed the US has been tracking Eritrean troop movements across the border. As Sputnik has reported, the US has secretly supported the TPLFs war, even while posturing as a neutral actor interested in peace.For example, there are several published photos of Eritrean artillery pieces and tanks positioned in defensive locations just inside Eritrea, near the border. Other photos, such as those near the town of Sheraro, which the TPLF claimed the Eritreans had seized, show lines of buses and other vehicles, but no weaponry of any kind and no sign of the epic battles described by Getachew, with their tens of thousands of fallen. None of the photos show the 5 divisions fully equipped with mechanized support that the TPLF has claimed Eritrea sent into Tigray.Nearly two years of conflict have created a massive humanitarian crisis, which has been compounded by a terrible drought plaguing much of the Horn of Africa. Around 10 million Ethiopians require food assistance, according to the United Nations, most of them in Tigray, Afar, and Somali states. ethiopia eritrea amhara state Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Fantine Gardinier Fantine Gardinier News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Fantine Gardinier ethiopia, eritrea, tplf (tigray people's liberation front), amhara state, civil war https://sputniknews.com/20221003/uk-energy-regulator-says-country-faces-blackouts-due-to-shortage-of-gas-reports-say-1101451788.html UK Energy Regulator Says Country Faces Blackouts Due to Shortage of Gas, Reports Say UK Energy Regulator Says Country Faces Blackouts Due to Shortage of Gas, Reports Say MOSCOW, October 3 (Sputnik) - UK energy regulator Ofgem said that some power plants in the country could stop operating as the United Kingdom is facing a gas... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T06:44+0000 2022-10-03T06:44+0000 2022-10-03T06:44+0000 energy crisis in europe uk gas blackout /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101451633_0:86:3335:1962_1920x0_80_0_0_edff38af470d9d81726fe1edcb775cc4.jpg The UK may declare a gas supply emergency that could cut off supplies to some gas-fired power plants, rendering them unable to generate electricity, The Times said in a report, citing the regulator.The announcement of the emergency is likely to heighten fear of blackouts because the UK relies on gas-fired power plants for the largest share of its electricity supply, the newspaper added.Under power industry rules in the UK, power plants will be forced to pay fines if they fail to deliver as much energy as promised, the outlet said, adding that the gas shortage should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent impacts on electricity and gas systems safety.In this regard, some owners of gas-fired power plants say that they are concerned about possible penalties and therefore limit the advance sales of electricity, which leads to higher energy prices, the outlet read.According to the newspaper, Ofgem added that the upcoming winter will be "more challenging than last year."Europe is currently facing a massive energy crisis due to the sanctions imposed on Russia after it launched a military operation in Ukraine. https://sputniknews.com/20220910/uk-gas-giant-considers-profit-cap-to-slash-energy-bills-amid-cost-of-living-crisis-1100632913.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International uk, gas, blackout https://sputniknews.com/20221003/us-denials-over-nord-stream-attacks-illogical-given-threats-motive---ex-pentagon-aide-1101479621.html US Denials Over Nord Stream Attacks Illogical Given Threats, Motive - Ex-Pentagon Aide US Denials Over Nord Stream Attacks Illogical Given Threats, Motive - Ex-Pentagon Aide WASHINGTON, October 3 (Sputnik) - US denials of involvement in the Nord Stream attacks defy logic in light of previous threatening statements and the extent to... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T20:26+0000 2022-10-03T20:26+0000 2022-10-03T20:34+0000 americas us nord stream 2 sabotage /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/09/1c/1101300397_0:94:1800:1107_1920x0_80_0_0_c57b09b7699abd78e61ecd94a183ef53.jpg On Friday, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia during a Security Council meeting said US gas suppliers stand to gain the most by shutting down the pipelines and called on the US to confirm it was not involved in the sabotage. Biden earlier told reporters the attack was a deliberate act of sabotage and the US would help in the investigation.White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday acknowledged that Biden in early February vowed to work with allies to ensure that Nord Stream 2 would not become operational, but denied the US was involved in the attacks.The sabotage of the pipelines, he added, had dealt a major blow to Germany's industrial economy and forced it in the short term to become more dependent than ever on the United States.Macgregor also said the Russians, of course, would not destroy the main source of hard currency feeding their economy.The United States has not yet been asked to provide assistance in the investigation into the potential sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines between Russia and Europe, a senior US military official said on Monday.US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin offered such assistance last week and the US continues to be ready to provide it, the official added.On Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists the issue of further cooperation on the restoration of the Nord Stream pipeline remains unclear given the "hysterically antagonistic" position of the entire collective West.On September 26, a rapid gas pressure drop and leakage of fuel were registered on two Nord Stream pipelines that play a key role in the transition of Russian gas to Europe. The Swedish and Danish authorities said they had discovered two gas leaks, with the consensus being that the incident was a result of sabotage.The Russian Prosecutor General's Office is investigating the pipeline incidents as acts of international terrorism. https://sputniknews.com/20221003/moscow-catches-blinken-letting-slip-us-motive-for-sabotaging-nord-stream-1101470125.html https://sputniknews.com/20221002/germany-may-initiate-own-probe-into-nord-stream-incident-justice-minister-says-1101441929.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us, nord stream 2, sabotage https://sputniknews.com/20221003/weve-all-done-it-joe-bidens-jackie-gaffe-dismissed-on-nbc-as-slip-of-the-tongue-1101467039.html Weve All Done It: Joe Bidens Jackie Gaffe Dismissed on NBC as 'Slip of The Tongue Weve All Done It: Joe Bidens Jackie Gaffe Dismissed on NBC as 'Slip of The Tongue Among countless gaffes and incidents of bizarre behavior performed by Joe Biden, the 79-year-old head of state recently at a White House event asked for... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T13:58+0000 2022-10-03T13:58+0000 2022-10-03T15:45+0000 americas us joe biden gaffe medical exam age retirement age /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/09/12/1100929797_0:124:3201:1924_1920x0_80_0_0_cf098a1ffc061fc58a2f323d34e8069d.jpg US President Biden's recent gaffe regarding a dead politician was dismissed on NBCs 'Meet the Press' on Sunday as a slip of the tongue.Symone Sanders-Townsend, former spokeswoman for vice-president Kamala Harris, said that the US Presidents verbal slip regarding representative Jackie Walorski was unfortunate.Moderator Chuck Todd had asked Sanders-Townsend - now an MSNBC host - how she would have handled the slip-up, which the White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre had refused to admit was a mistake by the POTUS. He played clips of Biden and Jean-Pierre's response.Todd appeared to agree, saying: "People make mistakes, and you try to go from there.""Yeah, yeah, we have all done it before," Sanders-Townsend replied.Biden, the oldest sitting president in the country's history, was delivering a speech on 28 September at the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. When he recognized the lawmakers who helped make the event a reality, he said Wheres Jackie? referring to Walorski, who died in a car crash in early August.The White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre afterwards said repeatedly that Walorski was top of the mind for Biden during the event.Amid the countless blunders and bizarre behavior by Biden, such as unsettling whispering into the microphone when emphasizing his point and "shaking hands with thin air, there has been growing speculation about his cognitive decline.Dr Nicole Saphier, a physician at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and assistant professor at Cornell Universitys Weill Cornell Medical College, wrote in a recent op-ed for the UK's Daily Mail that this pattern of behavior of the 46th POTUS merits a deeper examination of his mental state. https://sputniknews.com/20220930/physician-calls-for-biden-to-receive-cognitive-assessment-at-next-annual-medical-exam-1101393464.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko us, joe biden, gaffe, medical exam, age, retirement age https://sputniknews.com/20221003/yemens-houthis-warn-foreign-oil-companies-to-get-out-of-saudi-arabia-uae-as-ceasefire-crumbles-1101473725.html Yemens Houthis Warn Foreign Oil Companies to Get Out of Saudi Arabia, UAE as Ceasefire Crumbles Yemens Houthis Warn Foreign Oil Companies to Get Out of Saudi Arabia, UAE as Ceasefire Crumbles On Sunday, UN Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg expressed regret over the failure of Yemens warring parties to extend a nationwide ceasefire agreed in April... 03.10.2022, Sputnik International 2022-10-03T16:26+0000 2022-10-03T16:26+0000 2022-10-03T16:26+0000 world houthi yemen saudi arabia united arab emirates ceasefire /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/0a/03/1101473452_0:36:770:469_1920x0_80_0_0_831a5b1e043f8aa34c1d3deb37e4609a.png Yemens Houthi militia have warned foreign oil companies to get their affairs in order and leave Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates post haste, hinting at the possibility of fresh drone and missile strikes against the Gulf nations energy infrastructure.If the Saudi and Emirati coalition continue to deprive our Yemeni people access to their resources, our military forces can, with Gods help, deprive them of their resources, Saree added.For its part, the Houthis Supreme Political Council warned that the militant group has the airports, ports and oil companies of the aggress[or] countries in the crosshairs and will not stand idly by if the aggression and siege continue.The militant group has repeatedly accused the coalition of aggression and traitors among the Yemeni people of plundering oil supplies destined for the war-torn country, citing the coalitions seizure of more than a dozen oil-laden vessels heading to Yemen between August and September, despite the all-clear for the deliveries under the UN-brokered ceasefire signed in April.Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak, the foreign minister of the Saudi coalition-backed Yemeni government, blamed the Houthis for the ceasefires disruption, assuring that his government had made many concessions to extend the truce.In addition to the suspected oil piracy, the Houthis have also accused their adversaries of failing to live up to commitments to lift restrictions on flights to Sanaa Airport, and to lift the blockade around the port city of Hodeida.The Russian Embassy in Yemen expressed concern Saturday about the consequences of the collapse of the ceasefire, calling for all parties to intensify engagement with the UN Special Envoy in order to agree on an extension of the truce. The Embassy stressed that there is no military solution to the Yemeni crisis, and that a truce is a must to assure an inclusive political settlement.Houthis Missile PowerThe Yemeni militias warning to foreign oil companies is no idle threat. In January and February, the militia group repeatedly targeted the UAEs oil infrastructure over Abu Dhabis involvement in the Gulf coalitions war in Yemen, with the countrys US-made Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile systems proving unable to intercept at least some of the projectiles. In 2019, large-scale Houthi attacks against two major Saudi oil facilities temporarily halved the Kingdoms massive oil exports. In March, Saudi state television reported that a hostile operation had targeted the Jidah oil depot after the facility went up in a plum of smoke. Riyadh is planning to purchase seven THAAD systems between 2026 and 2028, and already has several hundred Patriots and other sophisticated air defenses from the US, France, Switzerland and Sweden in its inventory, but faced regular attacks on the countrys military bases, airports, oil facilities and cities by the Houthis.The Gulf coalition began its military operation in Yemen in March 2015 in an attempt to restore the government of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi who had been ousted by the Houthis in a popular uprising sparked by cuts in fuel subsidies several months earlier. Seven years after launching the campaign, the coalition has made little progress on the ground. Hadi resigned from office in April, transferring power to an eight-member presidential leadership council tasked with negotiating a permanent ceasefire.The Houthis are a moderate Islamist political and militant movement that emerged from the Houthi tribe, which is predominant in northern Yemen. Achieving a measure of support for their anti-corruption, social justice, anti-imperialism, anti-Zionism and Yemeni nationalism message, the group is fighting for a non-sectarian republican form of governance the country. https://sputniknews.com/20221002/warring-sides-in-yemen-fail-to-negotiate-extension-of-six-month-truce---un-envoy-1101445724.html https://sputniknews.com/20220823/french-foreign-legion-landed-in-yemeni-port-to-secure-lng-facility-former-yemeni-fm-claims-1099923343.html https://sputniknews.com/20220924/israel-oks-sale-of-air-defense-system-to-uae-as-thaad-patriots-fail-to-stop-houthi-drones-report-1101174224.html yemen saudi arabia united arab emirates Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov houthi, yemen, saudi arabia, united arab emirates, ceasefire There were two divisions of the $37,300 Lucien Bombardier Pace for two-year-old fillies at Hippodrome 3R on Sunday (Oct. 2) and it was the Guy Gagnon trainee, D A Temptation, who stole the show. In the 10th race second division of the Bombardier, all eyes were on Quebec champion Pocahontas Du Lac for breeder, co-owner and driver Louis-Philippe Roy, who came back to 3R on Sunday to drive his filly. Quick Menu (Samuel Fillion) was first on the lead, but Guy Gagnon had his sights set on the front and immediately sent D A Temptation to the top by the first quarter mile in :27.4. As they came down the stretch the first time, Roy came first-over with the race favourite Pocahontas Du Lac and they were followed by Godiva Shadow Girl (Robert Shepherd). D A Temptation cut the mile to half in :58.4. As Pocahontas Du Lac started to gain on D A Temptation in the backstretch, Guy Gagnon let his filly have a little more urging and she kept her lead up at the three-quarters in 1:28. Try as they might, Roy asked his filly for more in the stretch, but it was not enough as Gagnon and D A Temptation were at their best, winning by one length in 1:56.4. Senorita I Am (Francis Picard) was third. It was a lifetime mark and the second win this year for D A Temptation. The daughter of Sportswriter is owned by PL Yvan Mondoux, Inc. of Blainville, Que., and was bred by Dean & Ashley Wilson. She paid $5.70 to win. The fifth race $18,900 first division of the Lucien Bombardier saw Langley Seelster and driver Guy Gagnon leave and take the early lead with Make Bet SBG (Louis-Philippe Roy) sitting the pocket seat as they went a mild :29 to the first quarter. As the field headed towards the half-mile, Autumns Passion (Stephane Brosseau) came first-over, giving cover to the 1-5 favourite, Ladycorona and driver Pascal Berube. The half-mile timer was :59.2. With Autumns Passion pressing Langley Seelster on the front end, the three-quarters were reached in 1:29. That was when Pascal Berube decided it was best to fan three-wide with Ladycorona. They were three-across as the field started down the stretch, but Ladycorona had too much pace and pulled away to win by two lengths in 1:58.4 over Double Gum (Robert Shepherd) with Langley Seelster third. It was the second straight win for Ladycorona. The Bettors Delight daughter is trained by Yves Tessier for owner-breeder Sotirios Anastasopoulos of Saints-Therese, Que.. She paid $2.70 to win. Lucien Bombardier started training and driving harness horses at agricultural fair meetings in Quebec at an early age. In the 1940s, he left a business career to open a large racing stable at Richelieu Park in Montreal and in 1953, he accepted an executive position with Blue Bonnets which then became the Hippodrome de Montreal. During 25 years in racetrack management, he played a role in developing many changes and innovations that helped make harness racing a major sport industry and earned him an enviable reputation on both sides of the border. He also served as a director of Harness Tracks of America and the Canadian Trotting Association. At age 68, Bombardier retired from Blue Bonnets and embarked upon a new career when he became an executive with Angus Farms in Bedford, Que., one of the provinces most successful breeding establishments. Bombardier died in 1995 and was honoured each year at Hippodrome de Montreal with the running of the Lucien Bombardier Stakes for two-year-old pacing fillies. He was elected into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 1986. With sponsorship from Standardbred Canada and the Quebec Jockey Club, Hippodrome 3R revived the stakes race in 2011. The Lucien Bombardier Pace existed in Quebec long before the years of the last decade. It was raced at Hippodrome de Montreal and its ancestor, Blue Bonnets. The renewal of the race returned to Hippodrome 3R in 2013, thus this years edition is the 10th revival. To view the results from Sunday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Sunday Results - Hippodrome 3R. (Quebec Jockey Club) Members of the Gering High School student council did their part to help the community heal from a wildfire that tore through the Carter Canyon area in August. On Saturday, Oct. 1, five members of the student council, and sponsor Matt Salomon, planted hundreds of trees on property owned by Leo and Rita Urbanek. Salomon said the project was the student councils community service project for the school year. We thought this would be productive, he said. Its not in the city but, I mean, its close enough and still helping the community. This was really, really devastating. Lauren Doll, a freshman member of the student council at GHS, said she felt like they needed to do something to help. The student council likes helping the community and likes doing stuff to make the community prettier, and better. So, thats kind of why we did this. We wanted to help out where we could, she said. The project also hit home for her, she said. I know a lot of people whose houses were almost destroyed by this fire and a lot of land and animals were also affected so I kind of wanted to give back and help, Doll said. Among the trees planted Ponderosa Pines, Mountain Mahogany and American Plum, Todd Filipi, the resource conservation coordinator for the North Platte Natural Resources District, said. The trees all came from the Charles Bessey Tree Nursery in Halsey, a part of the USDA Forest Service. While the trees made the long trip from Halsey, for many, it was a return trip of sorts. Some of these trees are from seed that was actually collected here in the Wildcats, Filipi said. We took the seed to the nursery and they grew them up, sprouted them and were able to bring them back home. In addition to helping repopulate the area of the wildfire with trees, Filipi said the saplings also have other purposes. These guys will hopefully help hold the soil until the grasses and some of that come back. Additionally, all these species are good for wildlife and we hope to do great things that way, he said. Filipi said the Urbaneks were chosen to receive the trees after speaking with them after the fire had swept through the area. A lot of these landowners, after the fire, were stressed, concerned and had anxiety about what theyd ever see again in their landscape. (The Urbaneks) happened to be one of the landowners who we met with initially that was very interested in having some trees back, he said. This is a smaller property here. We thought this would be good for access for the kids and give them a taste of everything, without getting too messy. Filipi said there will be more trips in the spring to help repopulate the trees in the Carter Canyon area. A lot of the folks up here are interested in having some trees back, he said. We have some larger grants through the Nebraska Forest Service. Were potentially going to bring 30,000 Ponderosa Pine back while its being offered up to us, he said. Salomon already expressed interest in bringing back students in the spring to help with that effort. Meanwhile, Leo Urbanek said the tree planting project will go a long way to bringing beauty back to the property he fell in love with. Were from Wyoming; we didnt want to get out of Wyoming. But this was so lovely, he said of the tree-lined hills that made up the landscape before the fire. I mean, every morning, we just get up and count our blessings. Its just those trees. All the trees just rolled, rolled, rolled. As millions of Floridians remain without power, and thousands without running water, some Lincoln residents are providing assistance to those affected by Hurricane Ian. A group of 30 Union College students and alumni will begin a 26-hour drive to Fort Myers, Florida, on Sunday morning to spend a week helping residents get back on their feet. Through the college's International Rescue & Relief program, students are prepared for disaster relief in a variety of ways, says Lauren Richter, deputy incident command. Some of their preparation involves wilderness survival and rescue training, earning Emergency Medical Technician and other Federal Emergency Management Agency certifications. They also spend an entire semester in a developing nation studying global medicine and running health clinics. While the intense training teaches students the basics, Richter says it's the real-world experience that prepares them for the next disaster. "Honestly, students end up learning more from the residents than we teach," Richter said. Union College spokesman Ryan Teller says the team will work primarily on putting tarps on roofs to prevent additional water damage, helping residents clean out damaged homes and removing downed trees. With the program's popularity, Richter says the group has been able to respond to disasters at least one time each year for the past eight years thanks to donors. "We see these communities at their most vulnerable," Richter said. "But it's also really cool to see the resilience of these communities that we are serving and working with." Last year, a relief trip to Grand Isle, Louisiana, involved 4,000 man-hours in response to Hurricane Ida. To support this relief trip and other response efforts visit ucollege.edu/disaster-response. Other Lincolnites have also stepped up to help hurricane victims. Skyview Learning Academy will be at Super Saver on 56th Street and Nebraska 2 all weekend taking donations such as food, clothes and other essentials to send to Florida. Eleven American Red Cross volunteers from Nebraska have deployed to the region to assist in the recovery effort. Additionally, Red Cross emergency response vehicles from Omaha and North Platte were sent to join dozens of others from around the country in delivering tens of thousands of ready-to-eat meals and cleanup supplies where it is safe to do so. For other ways to help with Hurricane Ian relief efforts visit redcross.org. Three Lincoln Electric System crews comprised of 20 LES employees left for Florida on Wednesday as the hurricane neared landfall. LES spokesperson Kelly Porter said the amount of time crews spend in Florida depends on the amount of restoration needed and the type of damage. "Some previous mutual-aid efforts have lasted as long a couple days to two weeks," Porter said. Wytheville Community College and Wytheville Chautauqua Festival Creative Writing Committee will host a reading and discussion, Birding in Literature and at Rural Retreat Lake on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at 7 p.m. in the Smyth Hall Learning Resource Center (library) at Wytheville Community College, 1000 East Main Street, Wytheville. Speakers for the event are Jim Minick, a local author, essayist, and poet; and Allen Boynton, a retired wildlife biologist who has researched the songbirds of Rural Retreat Lake. Jim Minick lives in Wythe County and is the author of six books, the most recent, Fire Is Your Water, a novel. The Blueberry Years, his memoir, won the Best Nonfiction Book of the Year from Southern Independent Booksellers Association. His poem I Dream a Bean was picked by Claudia Emerson for permanent display at the Tysons Corner/Metrorail Station. His work has appeared in many publications including the New York Times, Poets & Writers, Tampa Review, Shenandoah, Orion, Oxford American, and The Sun. His newest book is Without Warning: The Tornado of Udall, Kansas, a nonfiction work forthcoming from the University of Nebraska Press in 2023. Allen Boynton is a retired wildlife biologist living in Troutdale, Virginia. Allen worked for 39 years with both the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. He is an avid birdwatcher and also enjoys hiking, camping, photography, and nature study. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Deanna Bradberry, Public Relations and Development Coordinator, Wytheville Community College, at 276-223-4880 or email dbradberry@wcc.vccs.edu. WCC A Bland County woman who was already on probation for drug offenses got four more convictions on Sept. 26. Regina Ashley Blankenship pleaded guilty in Wythe County Circuit Court to possessing drugs with the intent to distribute, conspiring to distribute drugs and distributing drugs. An additional drug distribution charge was dropped. The 38-year-old Bastian resident was arrested last April following an Interstate 77 traffic stop where police reported finding 175 grams of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $20,000. Two other suspects were also charged. As part of a plea agreement, Blankenship was sentenced to serve five years in prison and will be on probation for three years after her release. She was also ordered to pay police $800 in restitution. At the time of last years arrest, Blankenship was on probation for three drug possession convictions. Accused of violating the rules of her probation, she has an Oct. 24 court hearing scheduled. In a letter to the court, probation officers said Blankenships adjustment to supervision had been substandard. She tested positive for illegal substances, will not report as instructed and has obtained two different sets of charges, the letter said. Probation officers also referenced an incident at the regional jail after Blankenships arrest. In the report, Blankenship is accused of possessing drugs or illegal substances and possession of contraband following a cell search. A jail officer was taken to the hospital after examining a rolled up sticky substance found underneath a toilet. I felt very spaced out and like I was shaking, the jail officer reported. Pictures of the unidentified substance was taken and it was sent off to find out the identity of. General District CourtThese were some of the cases heard on Sept. 28. Zachariah Edward Deatley of Bastian was convicted of a July 17 reckless driving charge, which was amended from driving while intoxicated. Deatley was given a 60-day suspended jail sentence, and fined $500 plus $123.50 in court costs. A June 15 drug possession charge against Jeffery William Dodson of Bland was certified to a grand jury for consideration. An additional charge of possessing drug paraphernalia was dropped. Dustin Eugene Slavens of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, was convicted of an April 20 reckless driving charge, which was amended from commercial vehicle driving while intoxicated. Slavens was sentenced to serve 60 days in jail, and fined $2,500 plus $121 in court costs. Junior Ray Travis of Princeton, West Virginia, was convicted of a July 29 reckless driving (124 in a 70-mph zone) charge. Travis was sentenced to 10 days in jail, and fined $500 plus $166 in court costs. Small businesses are the engines that power the American economy. According to data from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the 33.2 million small businesses across the country employ 61.7 million people, 46.4 percent of all U.S. employees. In Virginia, we benefit from 795,624 small businesses employing 1.6 million people. If we do not work at a small business, many of our family and friends do. These enterprises pay taxes. Many of them donate to support local causes or events in the community. The best thing the Federal Government can do is empower small businesses and make sure the hand of government does not weigh too heavily upon them. I am happy to report that Congress recently passed a bill that will encourage small business innovation and meet federal research goals while also reducing the risk to taxpayer dollars. It is not the sort of bill that draws major headlines, but the difference it makes for innovative entrepreneurs in our country is meaningful, and its sensible policies drew wide bipartisan support. The bill, numbered S. 4900, focuses on two existing programs, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR). SBIR was enacted by President Ronald Reagan in 1982. It reserves a modest percentage of federal research and development dollars for small businesses. This approach produces technical innovation and lets small businesses perform projects prioritized by the Federal Government. It also creates a pipeline for federally supported research to be patented and brought to market. STTR was established ten years later and requires a small business to partner with a nonprofit research institution, most often a university, to receive funding. Under SBIR, federal agencies with a research budget above $100 million per year must set aside 3.2 percent of the funding Congress has appropriated for research and development contracted outside those agencies. Under STTR, federal agencies with research budgets above $1 billion per year must set aside 0.45 percent of research and development funding. The money set aside must be awarded to small businesses through a public and competitive process. Among the agencies funding these programs are the National Science Foundation, the Departments of Defense and Energy, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. These programs serve an important role for our economy, but that does not mean they cannot be improved. It is important for taxpayers to know that the money they put into research yields results. National security also requires more vetting for the enterprises receiving money through these programs. The Department of Defense found instances of firms that had performed research on its behalf coming into Chinas orbit. One startup had received a SBIR grant and then dissolved and transferred its research, development, and intellectual property to China. Others employed individuals with ties to the Chinese regime. American taxpayers should not be footing the bill for research that can be exploited by unfriendly powers. Fortunately, S. 4900, the SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022, makes innovation easier for U.S. small businesses. Not China. Further, it makes necessary reforms while extending the programs for three years. They require agencies involved in these programs to implement a more rigorous vetting process to combat foreign influence and increase transparency and oversight. The bill also limits the number of research projects that a small business can perform if they are not already bringing previously patented inventions to market. These limits will hopefully incentivize all program participants to focus on innovation and not just winning government contracts. The Senate passed the SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022 on September 20, and the House passed it on September 29. Not every bill stirs strong feelings or earns a central place in the news, and not all of them should. There are plenty of things Congress can do to make things better without instituting drastic changes that unsettle our laws and society. This bill was one such case, and it drew support from Democrats and Republicans on its merits. My hope and expectation is that the changes made in the SBIR and STTR extensions will strengthen these programs, protect taxpayer dollars, and help small businesses flourish. Editors note: Information is provided by the Cowlitz County Corrections Department and local law enforcement agencies. Each individual named in this report is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Protection order violation Longview police Friday arrested Gerald Kenton Brooks, 37, of Longview on suspicion of violating a protection order. Burglary Cowlitz County sheriffs deputies Friday arrested Cynthia Lynn Jenne, 30, of Longview on suspicion of second-degree burglary. Reckless driving Cowlitz County sheriffs deputies Friday arrested Aaron Eino Kyllonen, 35, of Kalama on suspicion of reckless driving and attempt to elude. Assault Cowlitz County sheriffs deputies Saturday arrested Jonathan Brendan Beason, 24, of Woodland on suspicion of second-degree assault. Drugs Longview police Saturday arrested Zaccary Lambert Bopp, 22, of Kelso on suspicion of sale or manufacture a synthetic controlled substance. Protection order violation Cowlitz County sheriffs deputies Saturday arrested William Allen Dunivin, 45, of Longview on suspicion of violating a protection order, resisting arrest and obstructing a public servant. Assault Longview police Saturday arrested Tony Lee Flemens, 67, of Port Angeles, Washington, on suspicion of second-degree assault, fourth-degree assault and harassment. Attempt to elude Cowlitz County sheriffs deputies Sunday arrested Dean Jesse McCarty, 38, of Vancouver on suspicion of attempt to elude, driving under the influence, reckless driving and driving with a suspended license. Possession of stolen vehicle Cowlitz County sheriffs deputies Sunday arrested John Perry Clark, 27, of Kelso on suspicion of possession of stolen vehicle, first-degree driving with a suspended license and violation of an ignition interlock driver license restriction. Malicious mischief Longview police Sunday arrested Timothy Sheldon Moe, 53, of Longview on suspicion of second-degree malicious mischief. Editors note: A software switch at Cowlitz County dispatch has prevented the agency from temporarily supplying 911 call logs and officer notes past June 6. The agency is working to create new reports to supply media outlets. NASA has warned that an aircraft-sized asteroid is hurtling towards Earth today! How dangerous is it? NASA has deployed its latest and most complicated technological assets to keep a close watch on the dangerous asteroids coming towards Earth. NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office is responsible for monitoring the skies and keeping a watch on various Near-Earth Objects (NEOs). If any celestial object is at risk of Earth impact, it red flags and issues the alert. NASA has red flagged an asteroid named Asteroid 2022 SC9 which is expected to fly past Earth at an extremely close distance. Although the asteroid is not heading for impact with Earth, it was still classified as a Potentially Hazardous Object due to the close proximity with which it will pass by Earth. It could head for impact with Earth if it deviates from its path due to interaction with Earth's gravitational field or some other extraneous force. Asteroids which come closer than 8 million kilometers from Earth's orbit are classified as potentially hazardous asteroids, according to NASA. Asteroid 2022 SC9 hurtling towards Earth today, Oct 3 NASA has warned that Asteroid 2022 SC9 is on its way towards Earth travelling at a staggering speed of 54972 kilometers per hour. It will make its closest approach to the planet today, at a distance of 5 million kilometers. According to NASA, Asteroid 2022 SC9 is almost the size of a commercial aircraft with a width of nearly 140 feet. According to the-sky.org, Asteroid 2022 SC9 belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids which are a group of near-Earth asteroids named after the humongous 1862 Apollo asteroid, discovered by German astronomer Karl Reinmuth in the 1930s. Asteroid 2022 SC9 orbits the Sun in around 466 days. During this trip, its farthest point from the Sun is at 264 million kilometers and its nearest point is 88 million kilometers. After today's flyby, Asteroid 2022 SC9's next close approach with Earth will take place on October 6, 2082, at a distance of around 11.28 million kilometers. How is an Asteroid Orbit Calculated? An asteroid's orbit is computed by finding the elliptical path about the sun that best fits the available observations of the object using various space and ground-based telescopes such as NASA's NEOWISE telescope and its brand-new Sentry II algorithm. That is, the object's computed path about the sun is adjusted until the predictions of where the asteroid should have appeared in the sky at several observed times match the positions where the object was actually observed to be at those same time. Russian astronomers have spotted a 1640 feet wide asteroid which was headed for Earth and just flew past the planet. Although NASA has successfully completed its first asteroid deflection test, there is no way as of yet to determine whether the asteroid was actually deflected off its path. The space agency will determine that using the data collected during and after the collision. To help in better understand the impact, the European Space Agency has already sent a spacecraft named Hera to the Dimorphos asteroid to collect data and observe the impact site. Meanwhile, Russian astronomers have observed a colossal asteroid which just flew past Earth on September 30. Key details about Asteroid 2022 SE37 According to a report from experts at Keldysh Institute of Applied Mathematics of Russia's Academy of Sciences, Asteroid 2022 SE37 is nearly 1640 feet wide, which roughly translates to half a kilometer. That is bigger than even the Roman Colosseum! The asteroid was spotted by the 25th telescope in the village of Kochevanchik and the 50cm telescope from Kuban State University in Russia. The asteroid made its close approach to Earth on September 30, travelling at a speed of 66780 kilometers per hour, according to NASA. Keldysh Institute of Applied Mathematics already confirmed before the flyby that although this asteroid was huge in size, it did not pose any threat to Earth now or in the foreseeable future. So, all of us can breathe a sigh of relief while NASA works on its planetary defense system. ESA's Hera Spacecraft European Space Agency's Hera spacecraft will observe the impact caused by the collision of DART spacecraft and Dimorphos asteroid. ESA has already launched its Hera spacecraft which will travel to the same asteroid to observe the impact. The Hera spacecraft will fly to the asteroid to survey the aftermath of impact and gather information such as the size of impact crater, the mass of the asteroid and its make-up and internal structure using its CubeSAT satellite to conduct a radar probe of the asteroid after the collision. A study suggests there is a gigantic ocean on Earth that is 3 times larger than all the oceans we know. Check out this biggest ocean on Earth. The biggest ocean on earth has just been found! An international team of researchers have found a gigantic ocean near the Earth's core that is 3 times bigger than all of the world's oceans. The water reservoir is discovered in the boundary between the Earth's upper and lower mantles. As reported by ANI, the research team has also discovered the formation of a rare diamond at around 660 meters in Botswana below the Earth's surface where ringwoodite is the dominant mineral. The study was carried out by using technological wonders like the Raman spectroscopy and FTIR spectrometry. The team of scientists from the Institute for Geosciences at Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany has said that this new research will provide empirical evidence for an amazing long-held hypothesis - water from the oceans travels by subducting slabs into the transition zone. And since the inside of the Earth is also part of the water cycle, the water cycle is speculated to extend across the whole globe. There are also several ringwoodite inclusions in the stone indicating a high level of water content. The researchers also determined the stone's chemical make-up. And it was almost identical to that of every piece of mantle rock discovered in basalts across the planet. Earlier in August, researchers from Curtin University had found evidence of an ancient piece of the Earth's crust beneath the South-West of Western Australia. The piece was reportedly almost four billion-year-old. According to Scitechdaily, scientists used lasers smaller than a human hair to target microscopic grains of a mineral extracted from beach sand. Research supervisor Dr. Milo Barham, said, The edge of the ancient piece of crust appears to define an important crustal boundary controlling where economically important minerals are found. He also shared that these remnants of ancient crust will play a crucial role in studying the future of optimised sustainable resource exploration. Credit: Frank Peters, Shutterstock The aeronautical industry has transitioned to the use of advanced composite materials because of their lightweight properties, strength and durability. Together with increased aircraft productivity and performance, using these advanced materials makes designing and manufacturing cost-effective aircraft structures and components more challenging. Meeting these challenges will lead to a reduction in weight and fuel consumption, shorter manufacturing cycles and increased energy efficiency in aircraft assembly. Nowadays, many aircraft parts are 3D-printed composites. Embedding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) during the manufacturing process of components is very suited to overall workflow. Embedded sensors are ideal for high-value and critical aircraft components or procedures. For such components, 3D printing can provide a cost-efficient means to making and embedding integrated sensor packages. Researchers supported by the DOMMINIO project are developing embedded sensors that enable real-time monitoring of aircraft while in flight. The 3D-printed parts embedded with CNT fibers generate data that can then be used for monitoring the part. This could reduce assembly costs and limit the need to use many wires to connect the sensors together. Better predictive maintenance "The sensors are being designed to be made from these fibers, which are incredibly light compared to existing materials and which also consume very little energy," states Dr. Moises Zarzoso, a research assistant at project partner IMDEA Materials Institute, Spain, in a news item posted on "3DPrint.com." "They are also 3D-printable and, given that they are CNT fibers, they can be easily embedded into a component manufactured from traditional carbon fiber, which is a very common material in aircraft production." A major aspect of the project is the use of digital twins. Dr. Zarzoso explains, "They are called digital twins because they are very accurate digital models that are updated during the whole life cycle, replicating the physical part or component within the aircraft in real-time. Through its embedded sensor, the physical part is able to communicate directly with engineers on the ground. If, for example, you had an impact during flight from hailstones, information relating to any possible damage to the part would be recorded by that sensor and then sent automatically to its digital twin. Using that information, the simulations that we are developing will be able to analyze the risk that a potential impact could induce in the structural integrity of the component, and to determine its remaining lifespan." The 3D printed aircraft sensors can help to save costs in several ways. These include more precise maintenance intermissions, flagging issues before they cause flight delays, and the checking and analytics of components. The DOMMINIO (Digital method for imprOved Manufacturing of next-generation MultIfuNctIOnal airframe parts) project is developing a novel digital methodology for the design, manufacture and certification of multifunctional and intelligent airframe parts. It ends in June 2024. Explore further Developing next-gen, smart engine fan blades Country United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe The AGI Grand Island plant plays a key role in making the company one of the worlds top suppliers in the grain bin industry. The company is one of the big suppliers in Asia and Europe, said Matt Schneider, who works at the Grand Island plant. We are No. 1 in Australia. Were No 1 in South America, Schneider told employees last month. AGI is currently No 4 in the United States, but it has a firm goal of taking over the top spot by 2025. On Sept. 16, Grand Island employees celebrated their fifth anniversary with AGI, which stands for Ag Growth International. In 2017, AGI purchased Global Industries of Grand Island. Included in the purchase were MFS/York/Stormor and Brownie Systems of Grand Island; Hutchinson/Mayrath of Clay Center, Kansas; NECO of Omaha, and Sentinel Building Systems of Albion. The Grand Island plant manufactures grain bins both small bins for farm use and large bins for commercial operations, including ethanol plants, feed mills and port facilities around the world. The Grand Island facility, which has about 160 employees, also makes tower structures, grain elevators and grain conveyors. AGIs headquarters are in Toronto. The company also has a corporate office in Winnipeg. The company is publicly traded on the Toronto stock exchange. Construction recently began on AGIs U.S. headquarters in Chicago. AGI has been emphasizing strong growth for about 10 years, said Schneider, a Kansas native who is senior director of U.S. Farm for AGI. The companys goal, he said was to achieve growth, and do it internationally across a number of different platforms. The purchase of Global Industries helped the company establish a footprint in the U.S. In buying Global Industries, AGI acquired a company that had a reputation for quality products, strong customer service and ongoing success. And weve helped deliver that, Schneider told the employees. AGI has parlayed the quality that we put into our products every day into selling more AGI products to those same customers. And that cross-pollination across the different businesses has really helped us, because now were selling our products to more customers. Grand Island is home to one of AGIs flagship plants, Schneider said. The company has about 4,000 employees worldwide. Alison Shafer-Beckstrom, controller of the U.S. Farm Group, said many people in Grand Island dont understand the international significance of AGI. It is not a small company, and it is continuing to invest in Grand Island, she said. AGI has a strong team and a dedicated, hard-working culture here in Grand Island, Schneider told the employees. And thats something AGI recognizes. Thats why we have capital investment of millions of dollars going into equipment and our plant, so we can get the most out of this team to deliver not just products we make but complete grain bin system packages, with products from other plants as well. Community involvement by the AGI Grand Island staff is top-notch, which is a testament to the pride we take in our community, he said. The Grand Island plant has shown that we can achieve growth year after year, Schneider said. Weve picked up a lot of top customers in the industry, and we have more to pick up, he told employees. And they all want to be served differently. Some customers want weekly updates. Some of them want a daily phone call. Were willing to do all of that. Whatever our customers want, we can give it to them. Thats how were going to be No. 1 in the grain storage industry. Carbondale Police have suspects in custody following a shooting death on Monday in the 700 block of South Lewis Lane, according to a media release Monday evening. The release did not provide the names of the suspects or how many suspects are in custody. Officers responded to a report of shots fired at 1:24 p.m. on Monday. Once on the scene, officers found a gunshot victim and learned that a suspect had fled on foot. Officers attempted life-saving measures and the victim was transported to SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, but did not survive. The identity of the victim has not been released at this time. Investigators have indicated that the victim and this suspect knew one another. The incident caused Carbondale Elementary School District 95 facilities in the area to go on soft lockdown according to District Superintendent Janice Pavelonis. That means there is not a specific threat to an individual school, it just means something is going on outside, Pavelonis said. As part of the soft lockdown, Pavelonis explained students are required to remain in the building and physical education classes, for example, must be held indoors, but classes and indoor activities continue. She said at dismissal time, students who normally ride buses from Lewis School and Carbondale Middle School the schools in the vicinity of the area boarded buses as usual since they are taken more than a mile from the schools. Likewise, students who are picked up by parents were dismissed in routine fashion. As a precaution, school administrators and faculty accompanied students who walk home from school to their destinations. As a result of the incident, Southern Illinois University Carbondale Police posted on social media and sent out a text alert to students advising those in the area to shelter in place. Carbondale Police are working with the Jackson County States Attorney office to determine charges. The department worked with the Jackson County Sheriffs Department, SIU Police, the Jackson County Coroners Office and the Jackson County States Attorneys Office in the investigation. Police say no suspects remain at large and there are no further threats related to this incident. Just before 4 p.m., Carbondale Junior Sports, a community recreation organization posted on Facebook that the school lockdown and shelter in place recommendation had been removed and scheduled youth sport activities planned for the nearby Superblock complex would proceed as planned. Carbondale Police Department Community Resource Officer Randy Mathis declined to provide any additional information, but said the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the City of Carbondale Police Department at 618-549-2121. Orangeburg Department of Public Safety A 29-year-old Orangeburg woman is accused of holding a gun while chasing after her mother in the yard, according to a warrant. Kassandra D. Brown, of 736 Bennett Street, is charged with first-degree assault and battery. The alleged incident took place around 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Witnesses claim Brown threatened to kill her mother during the chase. Her mother retreated to a neighbors house, but Brown allegedly tried to force her way inside. Brown was taken into custody shortly afterward. She denied having a weapon and chasing her mother. No one reported being physically injured during the incident. If Brown is convicted, she faces up to 10 years in prison. In other ODPS incidents: An Orangeburg man is accused of robbing a business at 1500 Wingate Street on Sept. 27. Wille Deran Irick, 52, of 351 Cemetery Street, Orangeburg, is charged with armed robbery. Hes accused of entering the business, grabbing his waist area as if he had a gun and demanding the keys for the register and the victims vehicle. If convicted, Irick faces up to 30 years in prison. Three children were taken into emergency custody by the S.C. Department of Social Services on Sunday morning after one of them allegedly walked naked down John C. Calhoun Drive, according to an incident report. A passerby discovered the 8-year-old boy at 3:22 a.m., wrapped him in a towel and called police. Officers claim this is the fourth time in a month that the boy managed to get away from his parents in the middle of the night. Officers located the boys parents at the motel where he lives with them, siblings ages 10 and 4, along with four dogs and a cat. The father told officers that his son is autistic and non-verbal, the report said. He allegedly told an officer that he doesnt know how to keep his son from leaving the hotel room at night. The father said he and his wife went to sleep at 2:30 a.m. Officers claim that when they checked on the welfare of the children, they smelled the odor of feces and urine emanating from the room. Someone stole a Goodman air conditioning unit from a Freeland Street home. The theft was reported on Oct. 1. The unit is valued at $3,000. Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office A 19-year-old Branchville man is facing one count of threatening the life of a public official. The alleged incident took place at Bethune-Bowman High School on Sept. 17. A deputy asked the man to leave the school multiple times, according to the incident report. Jayquan Abraham, of 571 Hollyhock Road, is accused of telling the deputy, You p - - - -, I bet you wont take that vest off, Ill bet youre a - -. Abraham was taken into custody on Thursday. If convicted, Abraham faces a $5,000 fine and up to five years in prison. COLUMBIA, S.C. - South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is partnering with The Post and Courier to host debates for candidates in the 2022 Lieutenant Governor and State Superintendent of Education elections. The debate for Lieutenant Governor candidates will be held on October 11 from 8-9 p.m. and the debate for State Superintendent of Education candidates will be held on November 2 from 7-8 p.m. Both debates will be broadcast live from SCETV in Columbia and will be aired across SCETVs statewide network. In addition, coverage of each debate will be streamed live on the SCETV website, as well as on SCETVs social media platforms. Gavin Jackson, host of SCETVs This Week in South Carolina, will moderate the debates and be joined by The Post and Courier politics editor Schuyler Kropf on October 11 and State House reporter Seanna Adcox on November 2. Candidates participating in the October 11 Lieutenant Governor debate include incumbent Pamela Evette and democratic candidate Tally Parham Casey. Republican candidate Ellen Weaver and democratic candidate Lisa Ellis will participate in the November 2 State Superintendent of Education debate. Evette: Zeus mind-blowing; lt. gov. tours facility in Orangeburg Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette said she was impressed during a visit to a Zeus Industrial Products facility in Orangeburg on Tuesday. In addition to these two debates, SCETV and The Post and Courier will also host a debate for 2022 gubernatorial candidates Henry McMaster and Joe Cunningham on October 26 from 7-8 p.m. Press interested in attending or covering the debates should RSVP to SCETV Communications at media@scetv.org for details. More information for press is available on the SCETV website. This debate is not open to the general public for in-person attendance. Cunningham picks running mate Joe Cunningham has chosen Tally Parham Casey, a civil litigator who flew fighter jets during three combat tours over Iraq, to be his running m How to Watch the 2022 Lieutenant Governor Debate Watch live on SCETVs statewide network on October 11 from 8-9 p.m. Watch the livestream on the SCETV website Watch live on SCETVs Facebook page and YouTube channel How to Watch the 2022 Gubernatorial Debate Watch live on SCETVs statewide network on October 26 from 7-8 p.m. Watch the livestream on the SCETV website Watch live on SCETVs Facebook page and YouTube channel How to Watch the 2022 State Superintendent of Education Debate Watch live on SCETVs statewide network on November 2 from 7-8 p.m. Watch the livestream on the SCETV website Watch live on SCETVs Facebook page and YouTube channel For more on SCETV, visit www.scetv.org. Evette: Zeus mind-blowing; lt. gov. tours facility in Orangeburg Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette said she was impressed during a visit to a Zeus Industrial Products facility in Orangeburg on Tuesday. About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio South Carolina ETV (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. Using television, radio and diverse digital properties, SCETV's mission is to enrich lives by educating children, informing and connecting citizens, celebrating our culture and environment and instilling the joy of learning. In addition to airing local programs, such as Carolina Classrooms, Making It Grow, Palmetto Scene and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including By The River, Expeditions, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice and Live from Charleston Music Hall. In addition, SC Public Radio produces the national radio production, Chamber Music from Spoleto Festival USA. Brooke Thomas has a heart full of love and gratitude for all the volunteers who are making her dream of homeownership come true through Edisto Habitat for Humanity. EHFH is continuing its mission of providing affordable housing in the community. On Sept. 28, the local housing ministry broke ground on its 93rd home, located at 1101 King Road in Orangeburg. Thomas, a 34-year-old mother of seven, is grateful for the support of the 24 churches which have contributed to the Faith Build project, along with other EHFH partners and her family. Habitat for Humanity has provided my family and I with a great amount of support through this journey. ... When it comes to Habitat for Humanity, I had to learn patience to know that everything was not a fairy tale, but dreams do come true. With them, I have laughed, cried, smiled, frowned, fallen down, gotten back up, but never gave up, Thomas said. There were times I felt lost, but then I remembered there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. I would like to thank God who ordered my steps; the lucky seven, my children; my parents; my grandparents in their earthly absence; aunts, uncles, cousins; church family and friends," she said, noting that she also appreciated the EHFH organization, its volunteers and other partners who made her new home possible. Thomas continued, I am forever grateful, thankful and blessed to be the last recipient of 2022. The order has changed, and I was content because in Matthew 20:16, it states: So the last shall be first and the first last. For many be called, but few chosen. EHFH Executive Director Jessica Burgoyne thanked all of the dedicated volunteers who are making the building of the home possible, including the participating churches. Many church members were present at the groundbreaking. Burgoyne also announced CPM Credit Union in Orangeburg as EHFHs newest financial stability partner. We will now be working with them on some programs in our community under our Cost of Home program and our Financial Stability program. They will be sponsoring things throughout the year, Burgoyne said. EHFH is continuing its participation in a Cost of Home program launched in June 2019 in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity International to promote housing advocacy. Burgoyne also recognized an anonymous donor to the housing ministry from Virginia. There is another little angel that exists in Virginia. They have a lot of ties in Orangeburg and have asked to stay anonymous, but her contribution from her and her family has also gone into this Faith Build. ... There are people that are very supportive and are really rooting for Orangeburg to continue this work and build a good community, she said. The Rev. Jerry French of First Baptist Church was among the members of the faith community who turned out to work on Thomas home. He said the work was a demonstration of Gods love for others and a way to honor him. There's a tremendous amount of love that we feel for community. We should never lose that. We've lived in Orangeburg and around Orangeburg for a long time, most of us, and we should always remember that it is love for another and the love that the Lord has for each and every one of us that we give to others, French said. He continued, I don't know standing here the love that you have for God, but I know the love that he has for you. So that's what brings us here today and, please, continue within the community to let others know just how much we love our community and one another. The Rev. Stanley Rivers, pastor of Williams Chapel AME Church, said, Im just happy to be a part of this momentous occasion. As I was looking at the program this morning, it says, 'Love in action.' I'm totally in agreement with this. He continued, Love is an action word ... and that's what you're showing on this morning. ... I'm just happy and elated to be a part of this groundbreaking ceremony. It truly makes me happy because it shows love in action. God is smiling on us, and we should smile on one another. The Rev. Melissa Green, pastor of Greater St. John AME Church in Rowesville, where Thomas attends, said EHFH was continuing to do the work the Lord called the organization to do. We are continuing to give God the glory. Thank you so very much for what you continue to do to make a difference in the communities here in Orangeburg. ... We look forward to continuing to work with you, Green said. The Rev. Carol Cannon, pastor of St. Andrews United Methodist Church, spoke of the late Michael G. Salley Jr. He was a founder of Edisto Habitat for Humanity in 1989 and went on to work on more than 80 homes. Cannon was joined by Salley's widow, Penny, at the groundbreaking ceremony. He was one of the people that first brought Habitat for Humanity to Orangeburg. He had a dream for ministry and that dream lives on today, Cannon said. Linda Mccants, a member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, said, It is truly a blessing to be here. We are just wonderful and pleased in whatever we can do to be a part of this great ministry, and we appreciate everything youre doing. Thomas said she did not expect the turnout of so many churches that helped to support the home build. It has been a blessing. Ive been out on my own since I was 20. Having the amount of kids that I have is a day-to-day challenge, but, at the same time, Im a mother at the end of the day. So I instill in my kids the importance of working hard and being a blessing to others because blessings do come back to you, Thomas said. At the end of the day, everything comes when its supposed to come. Burgoyne said while the coronavirus pandemic caused a decline in homebuilding and more of a focus on ramp building in partnership with Carpenters for Christ, the EHFH mission did not stop. The organization did everything from helping more than 30 families with emergency response during tornadoes to conducting food drives. We've been out in the community very actively, but our build had to be kind of readjusted because of the storm (Hurricane Ian). So we are very glad to be back to an active build schedule, she said. Burgoyne continued, I'm not sure that we've ever going to resume normal. I think we've all had to kind of adjust to what the needs are in our community and serve them. Our goal is to serve as many people in a meaningful way as we can." COLUMBIA PalmettoPride, in partnership with the South Carolina Litter Control Association, hosted the 2022 Litter Summit in Myrtle Beach in early September. Keep America Beautiful Affiliates representatives, litter prevention professionals, and law enforcement officers gathered for an annual meeting, during which program updates and professional development trainings were offered to attendees. In addition, Keep SC Beautiful and the SC Litter Control Association hold an awards luncheon during the conference. This year, the SC Litter Control Association (SCLCA) presented its David Thomas Award, named after PalmettoPrides founder and a former SC Senator, to Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. Evette has been a champion for litter prevention long before she became the lieutenant governor. Every day is Earth Day': Councilwoman keeps fierce focus on litter Shingles. Bedding. Trash-filled bags. Those are among the array of items littering many Orangeburg County roads and making the heart of longti As an elected official, she ensures that the conversations about litter happen at the state level. She pushes our agency heads and legislators to talk trash. She has spoken about the importance of litter prevention as an economic development issue, said Steve Ward, outgoing president of SCLCA. She understands the challenges we face as enforcement officers. Keep South Carolina Beautiful (KSCB), a division of PalmettoPride and the state affiliate for Keep America Beautiful, Inc. (KAB), also presented awards. This year, two individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions towards keeping South Carolina beautiful: Kathy Magnum with Keep Conway Beautiful as KSCB Board Member of the Year and Adam Marcinkoski with Beaufort Elementary School as KSCB Volunteer of the Year. Two KSCB affiliates were recognized for outstanding litter prevention and beautification efforts: Keep Orangeburg County Beautifuls SC Jeans for Teens as the KSCB Program of the Year; and Keep Aiken County Beautifuls Trash Bash at the Border for the KSCB Event of the Year. KSCB presented 31 affiliates with Affiliate Recognition Awards for being in good-standing with KAB: Litter group cleans up Fort Motte Road On Saturday, June 4, from 8 to 10 a.m., members of the Fort Motte community rallied together for trash pickup along Fort Motte Road. Keep Aiken County Beautiful Keep Anderson County Beautiful Keep Bamberg County Beautiful Keep Beaufort County Beautiful Keep Charleston Beautiful Keep Conway Beautiful Keep Dorchester County Beautiful Keep Florence Beautiful Keep Georgetown Beautiful Keep Greenville County Beautiful Keep Greenwood County Beautiful Keep Hampton County Beautiful Keep Horry County Beautiful Keep Jasper County Beautiful Keep Lancaster County Beautiful Keep Laurens County Beautiful Keep the Midlands Beautiful Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful Keep Newberry County Beautiful Keep North Charleston Beautiful Keep North Myrtle Beach Beautiful Keep Oconee Beautiful Association Keep OneSpartanburg Beautiful Keep Orangeburg County Beautiful Keep Pickens County Beautiful Rock Hill Clean and Green Keep Sumter Beautiful Keep Wadmalaw Beautiful Keep Walterboro Beautiful Keep Williamsburg Beautiful Keep York County Beautiful Being in Good Standing with the national organization is more than implementing programs in the three focus areas of Keep America Beautiful, said Joseph Berry, PalmettoPride KSCB Affiliate Services Manager, It is about taking the extra steps to provide data and reports that are critical to the success of the behavior change model. Having so many affiliates to be recognized shows that there are outstanding groups in local communities dedicated to making their communities litter free and beautiful. There are 36 affiliates in the KSCB network, and two pre-certified affiliates. For more information, contact info@palmettopride.org. GENEVA (AP) Switzerland's glaciers are melting like never before, an academic study released Wednesday found, with their ice volume declining by 6% this year amid rising concerns about global warming and a summer heat wave that swept across Europe. The Swiss Academy of Sciences reported that the shrinkage of ice in the country's glaciers topped a previous record retreat nearly a generation ago. "2022 was a disastrous year for Swiss glaciers: all ice melt records were smashed by the great dearth of snow in winter and continuous heat waves in summer," the academy said in a statement. The academy based its report on data collected by Glamos, the Swiss glacier-monitoring network. Switzerland has the greatest volume of glaciers of any country in Europe. Matthias Huss, a glaciologist with the Federal Polytechnic Institute in Zurich who heads the Glamos program, says there's "zero chance" the glaciers will return for decades at best given current projections for global temperatures. "We have a series reaching back for more than 100 years, and we have never seen anything that is comparable to this year," he said by phone. "It's something that has been expected for the future that such extremes might come along, but now they are already here." Switzerland faced an "unlucky combination of factors" this year that led to the big melt, Huss said. Snow cover in the Swiss Alps was exceptionally light, particularly in the southeast, meaning that the glaciers had less natural protection from the heat. A dust drift from the Sahara then blanketed many parts of Europe in the spring, causing the snow to absorb more solar heat. A spike in summer temperatures across Europe further intensified the glacial melt. The findings come on top of another study released last month showing that Switzerland's 1,400 glaciers have lost more than half their total volume since the early 1930s. The report issued Wednesday chronicles in detail the damage across the Swiss Alps: Over 6 meters (19.6 feet) of ice melted this year on the Konkordiaplatz summit in the Great Aletsch Glacier in the south, near the Italian border. Small glaciers like Pizol in the east near Liechtenstein, Vadret dal Corvatsch near St. Moritz in the southeast, and Schwarzbachfirn in central Switzerland have "practically disappeared," the team said. Elsewhere in Europe, the Bavarian Academy of Sciences in Germany said the ice sheet on the Southern Schneeferner in the Alps melted so much this summer that it could no longer be considered a glacier leaving Germany now with only four glaciers. Huss said that while people are not acting quickly enough to curb global warning, he thinks the world is waking up to the threat and the need to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. "The world's leaders have at least realized that something needs to be done to prevent the negative impacts of climate change," he said. 'But still, I feel that not enough is actually been implemented of the plans that are around. But at least it's better to have a plan and to strive and reduce greenhouse gas emissions than to not speak about it." ___ After what feels like years in quarantine, many people are looking to take back their social lives one road trip at a time. For those that l BRIDGER, Mont.A cargo train derailed late Friday night outside of Bridger, Montana, and dozens of crew members were onsite around the clock clearing the debris. The cars that went off the tracks were carrying gasoline, animal fat and plywood. Although neither of the two people onboard the train were harmed, an estimated 31,000 gallons of gasoline spilled from damaged cars. We train for (derailments) all the time, but this is my first response to one, said Clarks Fork Rural Fire & Rescue Assistant Chief Dillon Thomas, going into his 13th hour at the scene. A local resident reported the derailment at around 11:30 p.m. Friday. The BNSF train was heading east, and 15 of its approximately 115 cars went off the rails about a half-mile east of Bridger, which is near the Montana-Wyoming border. Two of the derailed cars were carrying gasoline, and started leaking after the impact. HAZMAT personnel with BNSF worked to prevent contamination of the surrounding farmland. Evacuation warnings were issued to residents in the surrounding area, Thomas told the Billings Gazette. While BNSF crews cleared the derailed cars, multiple local agencies were set to remain at the scene, said Maggie Karas with Carbon County Disaster and Emergency Services. Those agencies include Clarks Fork Rural Fire, Bridger firefighters and police officers, along with members of the Carbon County Sheriffs Office. In the estimation of the amount of gasoline spilled by the derailment, Karas said one 30,000-gallon tank had emptied completely. A second damaged tank leaked about 1,000 gallons before BNSF workers repaired the tank. As of Saturday afternoon, there was no information available of the possible contamination of groundwater or the areas irrigation systems. Carbon County Commissioner Scott Miller, whose district includes Bridger, lauded the efforts of BNSF and local first responders in a statement emailed to the Gazette. Some residents who woke Saturday morning to a train derailment had also experienced the historic floods earlier this summer that tore through several towns in Carbon County, Montana, he said. A new chair is coming to the University of Wyomings Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources. No, not a classroom or desk chair. Not even an armchair. An anonymous $1 million gift will establish the International Wildlife Conservation Chair, which supports Haub School Dean John Koprowski, UW announced in a press release on Sept. 15. The purpose of the gift is to inspire and create opportunities for future UW scholars in their pursuit of careers in international wildlife conservation. The endowed chair is to celebrate Koprowskis efforts and achievements in the international conservation scene. Following his retirement, the chair will be renamed as the John L. Koprowski International Wildlife Conservation Chair, the press release states. The dean already has a slew of funds named after him in the Haub School the John Koprowski Excellence Fund, the John Koprowski Research Fellowship Fund and the John Koprowski Mongolia Research Fellowship Fund are ones the release specifically mentions. Those funds are the recipients of several current monetary gifts. The Haub School itself is also the recipient of an immediate gift prompted by a legacy match, which is when additional funds are immediately made available after a donor documents a planned gift. Ten thousand dollars will go towards the current programs of the school. The press release notes that the whole structure of the planned gift was to encourage more gifts to be made to honor Koprowskis accomplishments. Indeed, the list of accomplishments is long and considerable. Koprowski has written more than 200 peer-reviewed articles and books and has worked with more than 50 graduate students to provide data-informed solutions to worldwide conservation challenges. He was previously employed at the University of Arizona, but also spent time abroad, working with international conservators and teaching courses in places such as Ecuador, Mongolia, China and Italy. The list of places at which he has worked on research projects includes Colombia, India, Mexico, Nepal and South Africa, as well as the U.S. According to the press release, the planned gift will help recruit and retain faculty for the Haub School who have expertise in wildlife conservation. GREAT FALLS In the poem Pishkun, Richard Hugo wrote that Charlie Russell, the most famous of Western painters, forgot the world has garbage, alluding to the unidealized modern life that exists outside Russells wooden frames. As temperatures rise and the Montana landscape so frequently depicted in art begins changing rapidly, some contemporary Montana artists emphasize the fragility in those celebrated mountains that likely seemed static a hundred years ago. They depict them at close range, no matter how difficult some locations might be to reach on foot. Two unrelated projects have been ongoing for about a decade each. One artist, Jonathan Marquis, has been hiking to peaks around the state for his Glacier Drawing Project, with a goal of reaching more than 55 named features left in the state. A collective of three artists recently displayed work from an ongoing project called The Last Glacier, at the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art in Great Falls. One is a photographer, two are printmakers. The park itself is the lure for that exhibition. Curator Nicole Maria Evans said Montanans naturally love the national parks and the concept of them generally. The art, meanwhile, works with that idealized concept but plainly states facts about climate change. The landscape can become idealized in history and in memory, and become something unchanging, she said. Unlike a grand landscape painting, though, the real world does change, and art can pinpoint that decline. The Last Glacier Todd Anderson, a printmaker in the collective trio, said that art can signify the importance of something but it doesnt ever give metrics, at least in the way that people might want. Originally centered on the namesakes in Glacier National Park, the collective artists branched out, separately and together, to document other landscapes that are under threat. Fellow collective member Ian van Coller is a professor of photography at Montana State University. He describes himself as a formalist and the beauty of the landscapes he photographs is obvious. His list of deliberate decisions that separate them from everyday social media mountain pornography are each smart and subtle. He shoots very few images, despite using a digital camera, and doesnt use a telephoto lens. He wants them to convey what you may have seen, had you been there, rather than the kitsch sublime, as he called it, that heightens the colors and distorts the perspective in ways that render a mountainside youve seen with your own eyes into a hyperactive widescreen image. The text that hangs on the walls in some of The Last Glacier exhibitions is a part of the image now. He works with scientists who will transfer them, annotating them with information about what youre seeing. The idea of writing on a photograph might seem like its intruding. But the effect emulates what you might be thinking sometimes when on a hike the landscape has shifted, altered, degraded and the collaboration just gives you better data. Escapism has its limits, even within your consciousness why not in art? A photograph from the Rwenzori mountains of Uganda has notes from Carsten Braun, a geographer, marking by hand where the ice reached decades ago. Its part of his project, Naturalists of the Long Now, which included travel funded through a Guggenheim fellowship. Another picture includes a minivan-sized boulder marooned on a pedestal of ice, and Braun wrote notes explaining how that happens. The snow-free dirty ice around it indicates that there is only loss of mass, not gains, and will continue shrinking. The idea is rooted in one of van Collers favorite authors, Alexander von Humboldt, a naturalist who, like other scientists from the Victorian era, had training in illustration. The places he points the camera reinforce that fragility of expanses that we think of as massive and impermeable, yet are deteriorating because of the activity of humans. At Antarcticas Canada Glacier, he shot the side of a massive ice wall, but not its expanse. Not the rim, either. A boulder pile of ice has collapsed onto a floor of ice, shed like rock from a granite mountainside in the Bitterroot but destined to melt. An image of an ice arch on Jackson Glacier, water glistening in the sun, is gorgeous but unsettling if the context around the picture is in mind. It rises delicately in the upper left corner, destined for the dirt just below. Iceland is similarly treated. In one picture, van Coller saw the oddity of ice fragments, striped black like exotic and endangered creatures, seemingly drowning in opaque muddy water. Chaney Glacier, in this framing, is devoid of vistas a steep bowl of watermelon snow (colored by pink algae that accelerates the speed of melt) drains in a spiral to an ominously blue pool at the center, like a sink. Its otherworldly, but in this rendering, a place you want to mourn or pray for rather than plot a vacation. Glacier Drawing Project Separately, another artist has been maintaining a similar series for nearly as long. Jonathan Marquis started his Glacier Drawing Project nine summers ago. His goal from the outset was to visit and draw the nearly 55 remaining glaciers in the state of Montana. Some that hes including fall under the 25-acre minimum of the U.S. Geological Survey. After nine seasons, he estimates he has about seven left to reach. Some he hasnt completed drawings of. Others, like Glacier Parks Sperry, hes drawn dozens of times. Now based in Tucson, Arizona, where he teaches art, and where people are often surprised to hear that glaciers exist in Montana at all, Marquis has carried onward, returning each season to check off as many as he can given the short season. Regardless of the time of year, the drawings and various side projects have consumed most of his art in some way whether in mixed-media paintings, cyanotypes made on site, and video projects. This year, he headed out to remote corners, often with Richard Forbes, an experienced mountaineer and graduate student in environmental journalism at the University of Montana, who has glacier-related projects of his own. One outing spanned 60 miles over four days, with 19,000 feet of elevation gain. Some of the points reached to draw glaciers require climbing. A view of Blackfoot Glacier from rarely seen Mount Logan. Thousands of hikers have touched Sperry Glacier, but far fewer have seen its expanse from Mount Edwards. Marquis and Forbes bushwhacked through the northern Livingston Range to reach Vulture and Carter glaciers and get a peek at Rainbow. Marquis doesnt think of himself as a landscape artist, or that hes working in that tradition, especially as it relates to the white settlement of the western United States. On a visual level, he doesnt identify his art with the composition of those traditional works the epic scale dwarfing a viewer planted on ground level, taking in a romanticized scene of an unpeopled Eden ripe for the taking. His work is on a smaller scale, often. The drawings made on site, for one, are physically small due to the practicalities of hiking or climbing with extra gear or a cumbersome travel tube. Created over the course of nearly a decade, his way of drawing has changed make them spontaneous, hype up the color, create more focal points. Back in Tucson, he completes drawings in the off-season and works on paintings that merge media (acrylic, collage, photo transfer) and styles (abstraction and landscape). The question of what good art can do is more vague, as climate change has been confirmed by personal experience and information is dispersed widely by scientists, journalists and photographers. The art might accomplish something on an individual level. Perhaps seeing an exhibition with an image of every glacier in the state, imaginatively drawn, could push someone to get to know their own surroundings, whether its open space, national parks, state parks or whatever. Maybe they stir thoughts about starting to keep in mind that, as Marquis puts it, we are in the landscape all the time, and not live as though one is sort of somehow conceptually separate from it. Theyre places he would visit regardless. Conditions on a peak, looking down on one of those ice fields, might not allow for any drawing time, with the wind, the ice and weather, but is worthwhile regardless. The project is like a hike, Marquis said. Step by step, changing course with time, along with the subjects hes drawing. CHEYENNE The Federal Election Commission has informed Harriet Hagemans campaign that its latest filing failed to meet federal regulations. The FECs letter was addressed to Hagemans campaign treasurer Thursday, and followed a preliminary review of a pre-primary report covering the July 1-27 time period, which detailed nearly $540,000 in contributions. In Augusts GOP primary, Hageman was the victor. Treasurer Jason Young was told to adequately respond by Nov. 3, a few days before the general election, and a failure to communicate could result in an audit or enforcement action. The campaign was told to disclose the identification of everyone who contributed more than $200 in an election cycle, including their address, occupation and the name of their employer. This is all considered essential to full public disclosure, the elections agency said. A significant number of donors out of 1,010 itemized receipts were missing employer and occupational information. Young was told by FEC campaign finance analyst Denise Stilla that entries such as Information Requested/Information Requested and Self-Employed/Information Requested were unacceptable. You must provide the missing information, or if you are unable to do so, you must demonstrate that best efforts have been used, Stilla wrote. You must provide the commission with a detailed description of your procedures for requesting the information. Tim Murtaugh, a campaign advisor for Hageman, told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle in an email Friday this is a common occurrence among political campaigns, and this one has followed federal law. He said the campaign reports all information as it is provided by donors. For those who choose not to provide these occupational and employer details, the campaign sends the required follow-up letter within 30 days, Murtaugh said. It asks the donor again to provide the information, and advises of the campaigns obligation to report this. A similar statement was sent Friday afternoon by Treasurer Young to the FEC. All Committee solicitations request the donors full name and mailing address; notify the donor that the Committee is required by federal law to report occupation and employer information; and request that the donor provide such information, Young wrote. Hagemans campaign committee has received two other letters from Stilla for apparent excessive, prohibited and impermissible contributions. There were concerns raised with the October 2021 quarterly report and the year-end report. Hageman for Wyoming has raised more than $4.4 million since July 2021. Although Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., converted her campaign finance committee to a federal-leadership political action committee following her loss in the primary, she was still responsible for providing her pre-primary 2022 report. She hasnt received a letter regarding any mistakes reporting her close to $201,000 total contributions, and she had 2,904 donors from individuals and organizations. Cheneys campaign treasurer was contacted by Stilla in February, though. The year-end report needed clarification in the detailed summary page of her combined 2021 transfers. The total contribution receipts since January 2021 added up to more than $15 million. Other candidates in the Republican primary had significantly fewer contributions to report in the pre-primary period, and so did the Democratic primary winner, Lynnette GreyBull. She will face Hageman on Nov. 8, along with Constitution Party candidate Marissa Selvig and Libertarian Richard Brubaker. Grey Bull has raised around $11,000 since the start of 2021, and her pre-primary report included eight contributions. Four came from nonprofit technology organization ActBlue in Sommerville, Massachusetts, and four were from individuals listed as not employed or as a caregiver. She raised $10,512 in total contributions during July. Grey Bull didnt comment on issues concerning Hagemans reports. Republican primary candidate Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Cheyenne, received a letter from the FEC for his April quarterly report, stating that he needed to clarify individuals who contributed in the 2021-22 cycle didnt exceed $200 for the entire cycle. If they did, he needed to provide their information. The total receipts in his pre-primary period were less than $1,200, and all contributors were listed as retired except for an educator and someone in government sales. Bouchard had raised almost $660,000 between 2021 and 2022. Denton Knapp and Robyn Belinskey never received any warnings from the FEC. Belinskey had zero contributions in the pre-primary period. Knapp received $200. The next report due for candidates is a quarterly disclosure which must be received by the FEC by Oct. 15. PINEDALE Just because the vastly important Green River starts high in the northern Wind River Mountains of Sublette County before flowing into the Upper Colorado River Basin system does not mean its closest water users have an extra advantage. That was one warning delivered Tuesday, Sept. 27, to mainly Upper Green agricultural consumers, with several municipal, scientific, administrative and industrial interests also represented. They filled the Pinedale Librarys Lovatt Room at the invitation of the Green River Cattlemens Association. The Upper Green the entire Green River is an integral part of the Upper Colorado River Basins mandated outflow to lower basin states. To make a very long story shorter, the Upper Basin and Lower Basin have different policies, compacts and court decisions that shape how water flow is divided and managed from Wyoming to Arizona. Many people attending the water meeting wanted to hear about the ongoing drought since 2000, voluntary conservation and possibly mandated curtailment programs and how and when this will pinch the Upper Green River Basins irrigation needs. That it will affect local, traditional water consumption is a given. GRVC President Mike Vickrey welcomed Chris Brown, water honcho at the Wyoming Attorney Generals Office, and Kevin Pierce, superintendent of Water Division IV at the State Engineers Office. Pinedale rancher and Rep. Albert Sommers also updated the audience on governors efforts to create Colorado River working groups so more users in the state could provide input on retaining and distributing water. Brown presented The Colorado River Compacts, Continuing Drought & Potential Impacts to Wyoming. Brown has delivered his nutshell of water history many times and his sole role is to defend the states water interests. Its what I do all day, every day, Brown said. His update of the current dire situation was to let local and regional Green River water consumers know whats going on today so we can better plan. Many listening to Brown and Pierce wanted the bottom line how and when conservation and reductions would be necessary and how the state will help them adjust. Even with modeled scenarios, Brown said the state likely wont know until middle of April, beginning of May of that year how the state and Upper Basin would curtail consumption in a given year. A best bet now seemed to be in 2025. It would be nice to know before 2023, a man commented. I dont have an answer, Brown said. We have to have that ability, Sommers said. We cant afford to be successful with our operations with declining water. Brown said the key is efficient irrigation. An Upper Green pilot program from 2015 to 2018 paid volunteering water users for cutting back on their consumption and might be revived with federal funding. Users were paid $150 to $185 per acre foot of water; a federal program might emerge with a fixed firm price, Brown said. Rancher Janet Beiermann said, We participated three years ago, we shut off water two weeks early and then turned it back on again later. She asked if the State Engineers Office had data showing if more water went on to Flaming Gorge or Lake Powell. Brown said the office has a final system report. Other questions and comments ranged from increased storage, water movement, conservation, desalinization, training for state water hydrologists, senior water rights transferring to junior water rights holders, reservoirs and whether the Upper Basin is even obligated to send more water to Mexico. Brown said more trained staff is needed locally. Weve got a whole diversity (of users) in the Green River Basin that are not visited by our hydrographers, he said. We need to measure actual consumptive use in the Upper Green. A study of four techniques to most accurately measure agricultural water consumption revealed the most effective is remote sensing by overhead satellites. A single fields water consumption could be determined this way, Pierce said, and the final report is due in November. He shared preliminary thoughts about a more structured future for water uses in the Green River Basin. These might one day include a basin-wide priority schedule, historic consumptive use data, measuring devices on all diversions, locking pie-shaped pivots, lockable headgates on all diversions, more frequent checks and additional reservoir monitoring. Actual curtailment and regulation discussions are constantly in the works, but the Wests hydrologic cycle of hot and dry means basically, something has to go without. DESPITE the challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, Pan-American Life Insurance Group (PALIG) is set to regain its 2019 profitability. So said chairman and chief executive officer of the board, Jose S Suquet, at the companys tenth anniversary celebration of its establishment in the Caribbean, at the Hyatt Regency hotel, last week. The continuous evolution of East Indian dance in Trinidad and Tobago accounts for the sustained national appeal of the art form, says veteran dancer/choreographer Michael Salickram. Salickram and his world-famous Zee TV Shiv Shakti Dance Company were the feature act at last nights opening of the 2022 Divali Nagar, in Endeavour, Chaguanas. The publics help is being sought by the police to find 13-year-old Ashley Gibbs. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. In Parliament: Opposition MP David Lee and Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar attend the ceremonial opening of Parliament at the Red House, Port of Spain, on Monday. Photo: ISHMAEL SALANDY Family, friends and colleagues of Allied Security Ltd officers who were slain during a robbery outside Pennywise Plaza, La Romaine, two Mondays ago, hold a candlelight vigil at the location on Saturday night. Jeffery Peters and Jerry Stuart were shot and killed and a third officer, Peola Baptiste, is warded at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex in Mt Hope. Photo: TREVOR WATSON Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. SANIBEL ISLAND, Fla. There was no time to waste. As Hurricane Ian lashed southwest Florida, Bryan Stern, a veteran of the U.S. military, and others began gathering crews, boats and even crowbars for the urgent task that would soon be at hand: rescuing hundreds of people who might get trapped by floodwaters. "As soon as the sun came up, we started rolling," said Stern, who last year put together a search-and-rescue team called Project Dynamo, which has undertaken operations in Afghanistan, Ukraine and, now, Florida. Project Dynamo has rescued more than 20 people, many of them elderly residents who became cut off when the Category 4 storm washed away a bridge connecting the Florida mainland with Sanibel Island, a crescent-shaped sliver of shell-strewn sand popular with tourists that is home to about 7,000 residents. On a stretch of beach, etched into the sand, there were calls for immediate assistance: "Help," "SOS." As local authorities continue reaching people isolated on barrier islands or trapped by floodwaters, others unwilling to be bystanders have sprung into action, sometimes risking their own safety or setting aside their own losses and travails to aid official rescue operations. It isn't a new phenomenon: Grassroots rescue groups have responded to past disasters, including after Hurricane Ida pounded Louisiana last year. Although some officials frown on people running their own rescue operations especially in the early going if it's not safe enough yet or if the rescuers lack training others welcome every bit of help. "It sort of restores your view of humanity. You see people chipping in and they aren't getting paid for it," said Tim Barrett, the training division chief for the Sanibel Fire Department. "There's even people whose homes are destroyed, but they're helping them. They're still helping other people." It can be dangerous work. Hundreds of buildings were destroyed by the ferocious storm, which lashed some areas with winds of 155 mph or more and pummeled the coast with ocean surge. "We're still working on rescuing people. I mean, this is just horrible that people have lost their lives. It's horrible that people are still possibly stuck in rubble," Republican Sen. Rick Scott of Florida said Sunday on NBC's "Meet the Press." "But I've been talking to the sheriffs and first responders and they're trying to get to these people as quickly as they can.," he said. "They've been working to evacuate people that stayed on, places like Sanibel and Pine Island and Fort Myers Beach." The storm has killed dozens of people in Florida and more bodies might still be recovered. Matt Mengel and his friends said they had made seven rescues so far, most of them elderly residents of Sanibel Island whom they reached on jet skis. "We had gasoline. We had jet skis. We had water. We had food and snacks. And our mission was just to go find them, dead or alive," he said. He called the destruction of the area, where he has lived for seven years, heartbreaking. "It was sad to see our home get destroyed and our favorite spots get destroyed." The group's rescue missions began Friday when they hadn't heard from a friend who lives and works on Sanibel Island. That friend was found safe and sound, but they quickly found others who needed help. Just as they were leaving, Mengel's girlfriend heard a woman calling out for help. They responded and found a couple who desperately wanted to leave the island. A Coast Guard helicopter was patrolling nearby, and Mengel with the help of the Project Dynamo crew began frantically waving for attention. The helicopter spotted him and touched down on the beach to whisk the couple away. "All I wanted to do was help," Mengel said. A local television station recounted how three siblings Leah, Evan and Jayden Wickert helped save about 30 people from rising floodwaters in a Naples neighborhood. Water had deepened to about 6 feet in their neighborhood, and folks were standing on whatever they could to keep their necks above water. The siblings used kayaks and boats to save people. "There were a lot of people standing on their couches getting out of the water," Leah Wickert told WBBH-TV. Betty Reynolds, 73, expressed appreciation for the men who came to her rescue after she spent days in her damaged Sanibel Island home. "You hate to leave a home you've lived in for 47 years," she said, but said it filled with "lots and lots of mud." She said she didn't evacuate before the storm because she and her home survived previous storms unscathed. But she said this one took her by surprise: "I just didn't believe there was going to be so much storm surge." Reynolds was taken off the island Saturday while Stern and his Project Dynamo team were on another mission, having received a text from a man who was concerned about his mother. Stern, whose cohorts are also military veterans, speaks quickly and is full of bravado. On a recent trip to Sanibel Island, he landed a boat directly on the beach, jumped into the water as it hit the sand and ran ashore. "It's like D-Day," he said afterward. When there was no answer at the home of the woman whose son had texted, his team used a crowbar to enter, with the son's permission. Stern said he couldn't stand by. His rescue project was borne out of his frustrations watching Americans and their allies struggle last year to get out of Afghanistan. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) A longtime prison reform advocate has agreed to a settlement with Tennessee prison officials over their use of solitary confinement for pretrial detainees. Alex Friedmann sued the Tennessee Department of Correction last year, complaining that he was being housed in one of the most restrictive cells in the most restrictive unit of the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville, despite the fact that he had not yet been convicted of a crime. The walls of the hardened cell where Friedmann was housed for almost two years are covered in steel plates. It has no shelves, mirror, stool or electrical outlets, and the window is a vertical slit less than 2 inches wide. Friedmann claimed he was being punished for his years of advocacy on behalf of prisoners prior to his arrest. Friedmann was at Riverbend under a safekeeper order that allows certain pretrial inmates to be housed at a state prison, rather than a local jail, for reasons that include security concerns. Although not all safekeeper inmates are placed in the hardened cells, it was the Correction Department policy to place them all in the prison's most restrictive unit, where inmates are kept in individual cells 23-24 hours a day. A federal judge ordered prison officials to move Friedmann out of solitary confinement last November. As part of an interim agreement, he was housed in a lower security unit where he could spend more time outside of his cell and have more contact with other inmates. In an agreement filed on Friday to settle the lawsuit, prison officials agreed to a series of policy changes. Friedmann said in a written statement that he waived monetary damages in favor of the changes. They are to be implemented no later than Oct. 31. According to the settlement, prison officials will house safekeeper inmates based on an individualized assessment, like other inmates. Safekeepers will also have the opportunity to participate in their housing classification hearings and appeal classification decisions. If a safekeeper is placed in a hardened cell, as Friedmann was, that placement must be reviewed every 30 days, and the inmate can appeal the decision. In addition, a regular inmate who is placed in one of the hardened cells known as iron man cells by staff and inmates will have the ability to file a grievance over that placement. In a written statement released on Monday, Friedmann said the living conditions in the hardened cells are barbaric. No civilized corrections system should hold people under such conditions unless absolutely necessary, and then for longer than absolutely necessary, he said. Friedmann noted that there are still no policies for determining when prisoners are placed in the hardened cells or for how long. Friedmann was designated a safekeeper after he was arrested in 2020 for hiding three handguns, ammunition, handcuff keys and hacksaw blades inside the walls of Nashville's new jail during construction. He was convicted in July and is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday. Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall, who oversees the jail, has suggested that Friedmann was planning a massive jailbreak, calling his actions evil." Friedmann did not testify at his trial and investigators found no explanation for his actions in a search of his home, but in a letter to the sentencing judge, Friedmann attributed them to a mental breakdown. Friedmann said he was gang raped in the old Nashville jail as an 18-year-old when he was arrested for armed robbery in 1987. In 2018, before the new jail was built, he was allowed to tour the old jail as the managing editor of Prison Legal News. Seeing the cell where he was raped caused nightmares, flashbacks and panic attacks. He hid guns and escape kits throughout the new jail in an irrational attempt to combat his fear, according to the letter. The sentencing memorandum from Friedmann's attorney asks for leniency. Mr. Friedmann acknowledges that many people may not understand his explanation for his conduct because it is admittedly not rational or reasonable, the memorandum states. But this Court should consider that it does fall within recognized patterns of trauma responses, albeit in an unusual and extreme manner. It points out that in Friedmanns two decades as a prison reform advocate, he worked entirely within traditional political and legal means. He also never targeted the Davidson County Sheriffs Office and even advocated for them to take over housing inmates at a facility that had been under contract to private prison operator CoreCivic. NEW YORK (AP) Rex Tillerson, who served a turbulent term as secretary of state under former President Donald Trump, was called as a government witness Monday at the trial of a Trump ally accused of leaking intelligence to the United Arab Emirates. Tillerson testified that he barely knew the defendant, Tom Barrack, once the chairman of Trumps inaugural committee, or anything about his relationship with the UAE. Instead, he spelled out how he would meet with Trump on a regular basis to discuss foreign policy, emphasizing that the sensitive conversations were supposed to stay confidential. You really dont want outside parties to have access to that information and use it to their advantage, Tillerson told a New York City jury. Prosecutors have alleged Barrack provided inside information on how Trump administration officials viewed a UAE-led blockade of neighboring Qatar. Tillerson testified he had advised Trump not to engage with the UAE on the issue, saying, We needed to let them sort that out on their own. Tillerson also described one encounter with Barrack where he called over to my office and expressed an interest in an ambassadorship, he said. But Trump didnt embrace the idea, so that was the end of it, he said. On cross-examination, Tillerson acknowledged having disagreements with Trump, but stayed clear of criticizing the former president. He said they sometimes played good cop-bad cop in their public statements about adversaries like North Korea. The former Exxon Mobil CEO is the highest-profile witness so far at the federal trial of Barrack, a billionaire private equity manager and Trump confidant whos accused of secretly working as a foreign agent for the UAE. Barrack, 75, has pleaded not guilty to that charge, along obstruction of justice and false statements counts. In 2018, Trump dumped Tillerson via Twitter, abruptly ending the service of a Cabinet secretary who had reportedly called the Republican president a moron but refused to step down, deepening disarray within the Trump administration. Trump and Tillerson clashed on several foreign policy issues, including whether the U.S. would stay in the 2015 agreement to restrict Irans nuclear efforts, a deal Tillerson favored. Trump announced in 2018 that the U.S. was withdrawing from the agreement. So far, prosecutors have relied on a trove of emails and other communications they say demonstrate how Barracks unique access to Trump to manipulate his campaign and later his administration to advance the interests of the UAE. The efforts included helping arrange an Oval Office meeting between Trump and Abu Dhabis Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2017. At the same time, UAE officials were consorting with Barrack, the energy-rich Gulf state rewarded him by pouring millions of dollars into his business ventures. Corrects story to reflect that the adversary Tillerson was referring to on cross examination was North Korea, not South Korea. The latest addition to Sand Springs food scene will be a Chilis Grill & Bar, the city announced Monday afternoon. The corporate-owned restaurant is expected to open in the latter half of 2023, City Manager Mike Carter said. Construction is projected to begin in July. The restaurant, known for its American and Tex-Mex offerings and casual atmosphere, will be located at 10 S. Main St., on the northwest corner of Main Street and Alexander Boulevard in the RiverWest area. It will be just east of the El Maguey Mexican restaurant and the Aldi's grocery store. Chilis has been one of our most requested restaurants from our citizens and City Council, Carter told the Sand Springs Leader on Monday afternoon. We are happy that we will be able to call Chilis a part of our Sand Springs family and look forward to their grand opening. Chilis Grill & Bar is owned by the Brinker International restaurant group, which also owns the Maggianos Little Italy brand as well as two virtual brands Its Just Wings and Maggianos Italian Classics which are available only via pickup or delivery in the markets they serve. Carter had no information Monday afternoon about whether the Chilis location in Sand Springs will incorporate either of the virtual brands. He added that Brinker selecting Sand Springs for its only current new Chilis unit in the metro Tulsa area is a reflection of Sand Springs continuing to be recognized as the anchor for west of the river new metro growth, as well as the City Council and staff having an aggressive approach to economic development. The city has been very selective in the brands we have been working with, and Chilis was one of our top choices, he said. This Chilis will be the newest prototype building design, and it will feature all the usual Chilis menu favorites. We are going to have high-quality Brinker International offerings for our community and regional customers to enjoy. Chilis has about 1,600 locations in more than three dozen countries worldwide, including about 850 restaurants that are company-owned and about 750 that are franchised. The chain got its start in 1975 in an old converted post office at Greenville Avenue and Meadow Road in the Vickery Meadows area of Dallas. Founders Larry Lavine, Malloy Buckner and John Foshee saw a need they thought they could fill. The area had plenty of nice, upscale restaurants, and fast-food joints were beginning to open on nearly any vacant corner, but there was little in between. We were one of the first early casual dining restaurants, Lavine told Dallas television station WFAA in July. The goal at that first restaurant some 47 years ago was to make $100 a day. In 2021, Chilis made more than $3.5 billion in sales, according to Brinker International, which bought Chilis in 1983, when the chain consisted of about two dozen eateries. Although Chilis ultimately made a name for itself with its frozen margaritas, baby back ribs, burgers, fries, fajitas, nachos, tacos and, yes, chili, in the early days, the menu was much more lean, relying heavily on its staples, burgers and chili. In September 2017, the chain again reined in its offerings, dropping about 40% of its menu items. It still offers a broad menu that includes chicken and seafood, steaks and a variety of soups and salads, but the focus is on its heavy hitters burgers, ribs, and fajitas. Perhaps the most-famous thing about Chilis isnt a food at all, though its a television commercial jingle. The chains (Chilis) Baby Back Ribs was named by AdAge as 2004s song most likely to get stuck in your head. That no doubt pleases Larry Lavine, who told WFAA that he, Buckner and Foshee chose the name Chilis for their restaurant because chili was on the menu and because they figured it was something people would talk about. People dont talk about spaghetti and meatballs, he said. Mother Road Market, a program of the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation, is seeking innovative entrepreneurs who are ready to take the next step in their business. With a focus on providing Tulsans and travelers a place to do good, eat well and shop local, Mother Road Market is home to some of Tulsas favorite local eats and is giving more restaurants and retailers the chance to join the food hall. In the coming months, MRM will have food and retail spaces ranging from the size of a kiosk to spaces up to 1,000 square feet available for new businesses. Mother Road Market will be accepting applications from anyone with a food or retail concept who is interested in expanding their business into MRM. The uniqueness in our market is rooted in our mission to break down barriers for Tulsans with big ideas, said Shagah Zakerion, executive director of the Lobeck Taylor Operating Foundation. With a challenging couple of years behind us and an exciting future ahead, we are looking forward to welcoming the next big idea to Mother Road Market. We have heard feedback from so many of our loyal customers on what theyd like to see, and we are dedicated to keeping Mother Road Market as a foodies paradise. Kitchen 66, Tulsas kickstart kitchen located inside Mother Road Market, will host the finalists from the open call each Tuesday in November in the Takeover Cafe and give MRM customers the chance to taste-test the potential new concepts. Mother Road Market is a community space, allowing Tulsans and tourists alike to eat, sip, shop and enjoy over 20 business concepts, all on one campus. From hot chicken to street tacos, Brazilian cuisine to artisanal ice cream, Mother Road Market supports local food entrepreneurs by providing them with rent assistance, marketing resources and support to grow their concepts into standalone brick and mortar food establishments. For more information, visit motherroadmarket.com. Featured video: Tulsa police tracked Camreion Blue Williams to his place of work just after 8 a.m. Sept. 30 after learning that he was the suspect in his stepfather's death, causing a short evacuation at the Cox Business Convention Center as they searched for him inside. Police have identified the teenager killed Friday at McLain High School and said three other people were injured when several shots were fired during the homecoming game that evening. Terron Yarbrough, 17, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another 17-year-old who was shot was stabilized after being taken to a hospital in critical condition. Police shared additional information Monday that two other victims, a 20-year-old woman and a 9-year-old girl, also were injured in the shooting. Detectives discovered those victims at a local hospital, where they were treated and released. Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin said Monday that no further details would be provided that might jeopardize the ongoing investigation. Officers on Friday were unsuccessful in their search for the shooter, believed also to be 17. Police have asked anyone with information helpful to the investigation to come forward. The Tulsa Police Departments nonemergency number is 918-596-9222. Yarbrough is among seven teenagers who have been shot and killed in Tulsa this year. Classes at McLain were canceled Monday, but students were offered grief counseling at the school. Tulsa Public Schools announced Monday afternoon that classes also would not be held at McLain on Tuesday. Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education canceled Monday nights regularly scheduled meeting. A spokeswoman for the district confirmed Monday afternoon that the cancellation was due to Friday nights shooting. McLain, at 4929 N. Peoria Ave., was hosting a homecoming game against Miami High School. Miamis superintendent has said the district will suspend further activity with McLain in Tulsa as a result of the violence. Cleveland Public Schools' superintendent said Monday that his team wouldn't be traveling to McLain for Friday's scheduled game after parents expressed safety concerns. Stay home day: Monday is one of eight previously scheduled distance-learning days for Broken Arrow Public Schools. Deadline delayed: In order to solicit additional community feedback, Tulsa Public Schools has extended its board redistricting survey response deadline to 5 p.m. Oct. 14. The survey is available online at tulsaschools.org. National recognition: As part of its annual convention, the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools posthumously presented former Dahlonegah Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Limore with its Friends of NAFIS Award. The award is given to individuals for their contributions to the Impact Aid Program. Impact Aid is a federal program that reimburses school districts for lost revenue associated with having nontaxable property in or near their attendance areas, such as Indian trust land, military installations, national parks and federally operated low-income housing facilities. A former state, regional and national advocate for Impact Aid recipients, Limore had more than 35 years of experience in public education at the time of his death in June. Located south of Stilwell, Dahlonegah is a dependent school district serving about 165 students. College Board kudos: Nine Broken Arrow High School students have received academic accolades from the College Board. Justice Sutton received the National African American Recognition Award. Diego Ochoa, Caliana Ortega and Lucas Taylor received the National Hispanic Recognition Award. Ava Boswell, Colin Buchanan, Marisa Reed, Jordan Scott and Tru West received the National Indigneous Recognition Award. To be eligible for consideration, sophomores and juniors must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have either excelled on the PSAT/NMSQT or earned a score of 3 or higher on at least two Advanced Placement exams. COVID-19 by the numbers: Six area school districts and one charter school had published updated COVID-19 case counts by the close of business Friday. As of Friday, Bartlesville Public Schools reported one case among employees and two among students. Berryhill reported two cases districtwide. Berryhill Public Schools does not differentiate between students and staff in its reporting. Both Collinsville Public Schools and Glenpool Public Schools reported zero cases among staff and students. Skiatook Public Schools reported three cases among students and none among employees. Tulsa Public Schools reported four cases among students and one among staff. Campuses with a confirmed case include Bell and Hamilton elementary schools, Thoreau Demonstration Academy, and Webster Middle and High School. Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences reported zero cases among its employees and three among its students. Bixby, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Jenks, Owasso, Sand Springs, Sapulpa, Sperry and Union are not publishing updated case counts at this time. School board calendar: The boards of education for Kiefer, Sand Springs and Tulsa are scheduled to meet on Monday. Lone Stars school board is scheduled to meet Tuesday. Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton, Tulsa World Featured video: OKMULGEE Aurora Wells likes a challenge. A fifth-grade student at Dunbar Intermediate School, Aurora is taking Muscogee language classes on campus this fall through a memorandum of understanding between Okmulgee Public Schools and the Muscogee Nation. Ive never done anything like this before, she said, taking a break from writing sentences about animals on a classroom chalkboard. Its different. Although it may be different for Aurora, she and her classmates are not alone. According to data compiled by the Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education, through the end of the 2021-22 school year, the number of Oklahoma public school students taking an Indigenous language for a world language credit has increased by almost 1,000 pupils over the last two school years. That figure does not include students enrolled in private schools, such as the Osage Nations Daposka Ankodapi, or students who are learning a language solely through supplemental offerings, such as the Euchee Language Learning Center After School program in Kellyville or the Tulsa City-County Library Systems American Indian Resource Center community classes. It also does not include students enrolled in courses that incorporate language instruction but are listed with the Oklahoma State Department of Education under other disciplines, such as literature or Native American studies. Research has shown time and again that when an American Indian student has access to their Native language, even if theyre minimal speakers, they have that stronger connection to their culture, OSDE World Languages Department Director Cathleen Skinner said, noting that Oklahoma has more than 156,000 Indigenous public school students statewide. During the 2021-22 school year, nine tribal languages Cherokee, Cheyenne, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Comanche, Muscogee, Osage, Pawnee and Potawatomi were available for a world language credit through at least one Oklahoma charter school or public school district. Although they were not offered in 21-22, the Oklahoma State Department of Education also has codes in place for Seminole and Sauk should a school district opt to offer them for academic credit in the future. The 2022-23 student data will not be available until spring 2023, but Jackie White, executive director of American Indian education for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, said she fully expects both the number of languages to continue to increase as well as the number of public school students taking an Indigenous language. Thats important for the kids, White said. They want to learn the language, but they also need the credits to graduate. As of mid-September, the Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education and the Oklahoma State Department of Educations World Languages Department were in conversations with the language departments at three additional tribes about getting credit codes in place as soon as the 2023-24 school year. The agreement between Okmulgee Public Schools and the Muscogee Nations language department was not in place until August, so its students will not show up until the 2022-23 count. Using federal grant funds, the Muscogee Nation has language teachers at each of the districts campuses. Conversations to add grant-funded Muscogee classes are also underway with district leaders at Mason Public Schools in Okfuskee County, Graham-Dustin Public Schools in Okmulgee, Okfuskee and Hughes counties, and Hanna Public Schools in McIntosh County. Steven Powell, one of the Muscogee language teachers working with Okmulgee students this year, said elementary students were greeting him in the halls in Muscogee within a matter of days. These kids are grasping it, Powell said. Im seeing positive results. Im seeing something that hasnt been done in, my gosh, I dont know how long, where theyve excelled at this pace. Bartlesville Public Schools is also among the districts that have added an Indigenous language this semester. When he first pitched to school leaders the idea of adding an Osage language class at Bartlesville High School for the 2022-23 school year, teacher Corey Maker thought there might be enough student interest for one section. His numbers were a bit off. The initial enrollment was around 80 (students), he said. I was pretty blown away. I was pretty confident Id get 20 students based on student interaction. I figured 20 would be a safe bet. I did not expect to have 80 and definitely did not expect to have three classes per day of Osage language. On top of the new programs at Bartlesville and Okmulgee, as well as the addition of a Comanche language program at Lawton Public Schools, the states two tribally operated charter schools are each undergoing expansion. The Cherokee Nations immersion school will be opening a second campus later this school year in the Adair County community of Greasy. The Comanche Nation opened a dual-language charter school in Lawton in 2021 and is still adding grades to it. Meanwhile, fifth-grader Aurora is planning on continuing to take Muscogee classes as long as she can. Along with enjoying the challenge of learning a new language, she said there was something to being able to communicate with her friends and classmates in a way that not everyone around them is able to understand. I want to keep trying this out, she said. More than $95 million in ARPA projects including at least $35.7 million for the Tulsa area did not get a vote during Thursdays special legislative session because of a dispute over a $2.8 million allocation to the Oklahoma City YWCA, Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, confirmed Friday. More than $1 billion in American Rescue Plan Act appropriations were approved in the special state legislative session last week. The House (of Representatives) wanted to make some changes that we didnt find agreeable at that time, but were working extremely well with our House counterparts. Im confident well come up with a solution by the next session, Treat said. That session begins Feb. 6. In the meantime, several other recipients are left hanging. From the Tulsa area, those include: $30 million for Oasis Fresh Markets to open three additional stores, including one in west Tulsa $700,000 for the Parent Child Center for domestic violence intervention $2 million toward construction of a new Family Safety Center near 28th Street and Sheridan Road $1 million for new air handling equipment and plumbing at The Spring near Sand Springs, which offers housing for targets of domestic violence and human trafficking $3 million to Food on the Move toward construction of a food hub essentially a distribution and storage center Other affected projects include $30 million for Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma programs statewide and $25 million for expanded child care capacity. The appropriations were bundled together because the money was to flow through the Department of Human Services. The House and Senate each drafted bills to fund the recommendations of the Joint Committee on Pandemic Relief. The House bill, HB 1020, would have funded all of the projects except the disputed YWCA allocation, but the Senate wouldnt agree to it. The House refused to sign off on the Senate version, which did include the YWCA project. The $2.8 million at the center of the controversy is to provide housing for young adults aging out of foster care, but the exact nature of the disagreement was unclear. Treats wife, Marissa Treat, is a member of the Oklahoma City YWCAs Board of Directors, but the pro tem said he didnt believe that is an issue. Several Tulsa-area projects were included in the legislation that passed last week, including $38 million for a new mental health hospital and $50 million for an Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences laboratory. Featured video: David Tudor is the Associated Electric Cooperative CEO, the power generation cooperative for LREC. He discusses opportunities, challenges and future ahead for rural electric cooperatives. This year weve seen national headlines about concerns over the reliability of electricity in America. Are those concerns valid? Tudor: Are reliability issues real? Yes. During the past 20 years in our industry, there has been a shift from reliable, dispatchable coal and nuclear generation, primarily due to environmental concerns and the push toward, renewable resources. The problem is companies across the electric utility industry are being forced to retire baseload power plants that are the foundation of reliable power supply and they are not doing so on their own timetables. The timetables are being pushed by the federal administration, primarily due to concerns around climate change. Frankly, the dates being put forth to close coal power plants are arbitrary and have no modeling analysis to support them. The decision-makers in charge of those goals are not the ones accountable for the consequences like diminished reliability. This past summer heat waves hit early. How did Associated keep the power flowing? Tudor: The situation was definitely tight, but we kept the lights on. The summer heat came in earlier than normal at record highs and it persisted. Normally, in July to early August we would see our hottest temperatures. This year, that heat started in mid-June. During that early heatwave, our biggest challenges were planned and unplanned outages at some of our coal and natural gas power plants. Our generating fleet is normally robust enough to meet the energy needs of the system during summer and winter. But with some of the coal and natural gas units offline for forced repairs and others undergoing planned maintenance, we had little room for error. We operated to get every megawatt we could out of our generating fleet and relied more on power purchases to supplement our own generation. We did ask our members to help us conserve electricity during the early summer and we appreciated those efforts. That type of ask is rare and we never want it to become the norm. AECIs current generation portfolio is diverse: coal and natural gas plants, wind and hydropower. What future changes can we expect? Tudor: The biggest change will be adding megawatts to our existing fleet to shore up reliability for the future. As other regions have been retiring baseload power plants, we felt there could be a scarcity of generating capacity across the entire region that potentially could impact us. Weve been adding megawatts to our existing natural gas fleet, which is the most efficient and cost-effective way to add capacity. For example, Unionville Power Station, a liquid-fuel plant, was idle, but we are bringing its 44 megawatts back online. Improvements at our existing natural gas plants are adding incremental but valuable generating capacity. Every megawatt we add of natural gas is good for members and the environment because it is dispatchable and cleaner than coal. We are executing the early phases of a plan to add up to 900 megawatts of additional natural gas generation to our fleet. These additions are to address new load growth on our system, which was an all-time high for Associated and the peaks this past summer. I expect that new gas generation to be available in late 2026. Some advocate for renewable energy at the expense of fossil-fuel electricity. How do you answer people who favor that approach? Tudor: We are looking for generation technologies that actually work and can be financed to replicate the reliability of a coal power plant. That technology doesnt exist today, anywhere in the world. Companies are retiring coal plants, claiming they will reduce carbon significantly or be carbon-free by a certain date, but they do not have any plan to replace dispatchable megawatts with a technology that is proven. Associated is not in the business of doing things that are unproven. Weve proven we arent against renewable energy, but we do oppose bad decisions that will make our system less reliable and less affordable for members. Associated is already a leader in wind development in the Midwest with 1,240 megawatts. The most recent addition of about 470 megawatts came online in 2020. We also have modeled the possibility of adding solar to our portfolio and have been searching for viable sites on our system where we could add solar projects. The supply chain shortages and issues with production of solar panels have increased prices significantly and slowed that process down. We think the right thing to do for now is to wait until costs settle down. When its the right price and the right place, which means good for members, I think youll see us pursue some level of solar development. Looking into the future, are there any cutting-edge generation technologies youre excited about? Tudor: Excited is a relative term many ideas sound great in the concept stage. Are they reliable? Are they affordable? Earlier this year, we signed an agreement with a company developing small modular nuclear reactors. Three large developers are working to put this technology online. Our agreement with one of these developers is basically to observe the process as this technology develops and is put into production. The earliest one of these units could be online is 2028 and the regulatory process around any sort of nuclear project can be a wildcard. Technologies like this arent near-term solutions, but were staying involved to see how it develops. As a three-tiered cooperative system, which is not common in the industry, talk about how that system works. Pros and cons? Tudor: I dont believe there are any cons. Associateds three-tiered system works very well, because it is structured to enable each tier to focus on their core competencies and do what they do best. For example, distribution cooperatives are really good at serving residential and commercial member-owners. They dont have to worry about the transmission because the transmission cooperatives which own Associated are really good at operating their transmission systems. And Associated doesnt have to worry about the quality or challenges with respect to transmission our six transmission cooperatives take care of that. Our role is to generate electricity, which is Associateds core competency and what we focus on to provide value to the system. Associated Electric Cooperative (LRECs wholesale power supplier) is part of a three-tiered system united by the common purpose of serving electric cooperative members with affordable and reliable electricity. Associated is owned by six generation and transmission cooperatives (G&Ts) that formed it in 1961 to provide them a wholesale power supply. These six G&Ts are owned by 51 distribution cooperatives in Missouri, southeast Iowa, and northeast Oklahoma. These local electric cooperatives are owned by more than 910,000 individual members. Vietnams petrol prices dropped for the fourth consecutive time on Monday afternoon, with the popular RON95 gasoline now selling at VND21,440 (US$0.9) per liter. Fuel retailers from 3:00 pm cut the price of RON95 gasoline by VND1,140 per liter to VND21,440 per liter. ($1 = VND23,905) E5RON92 price was also slashed by VND1,050 per liter to VND20,730 per liter. Diesel oil now costs VND22,200 per liter, a decline of VND330 per liter. Authorities had used the petrol price stabilization fund at a rate of VND300-600 per liter. The continuous fall in gasoline prices is good news for many people as it helps reduce the prices of input materials in production, business operations, and services. However, this decrease puts great pressure on the operations of petroleum businesses. Many companies are worried that if this situation persists for the next one or two months, many filling stations may have to close for failure to offset operating costs and disruptions to the supply chain. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Many Vietnamese tourists have booked tours to Japan and South Korea in the autumn-winter travel season as the two countries have eased immigration requirements since this month. On September 30, South Korea announced the removal of the on-arrival COVID-19 test requirement for international tourists. Travelers are required to register Q-codes on South Koreas Q-code website prior to their entry into the East Asian country. Moreover, South Korea does not ask travelers to report the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses they have got. Meanwhile, Japan will relax entry regulations and lift its cap on daily arrivals from October 11 to attract more tourists in autumn. In addition, Japan will reinstate its visa waiver policy as in the pre-pandemic period. The country will also accept travelers who have any COVID-19 vaccine approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). At present, Japan allows anyone who received all COVID-19 vaccines on the WHOs emergency use list, except for those made in China, to enter the country. According to some travel firms, South Korea reopened its door to foreign visitors from April, while Japan did the job at the beginning of autumn, so many Vietnamese tourists have booked tours to these two destinations. With relaxed immigration regulations, traveling to these two countries will be easier. Japan and South Korea, with fine weather and stunning landscapes in autumn, also pin high hopes on the high number of Vietnamese guests. At present, Vietnamese customers of tours to these two East Asian countries are mainly families or groups of four to six friends. A survey on some travel companies shows that the number of applications for visas to Japan and South Korea is high but the visa issuance processes of these two countries remain complicated, with many procedures and a 20-25 percent higher fee. As a result, the number of tours to Japan and South Korea remains modest. Nguyen Nguyet Van Khanh, director of marketing at local travel firm Vietravel told Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper that the firm had received more than 1,500 bookings for tours to Japan and South Korea. The travelers favorite products are tours in autumn costing each person VND28-37 million (US$1,173-1,550), up 10-20 percent over the pre-pandemic period, news site VnExpress reported. A representative of Saigontourist Travel Service Company said the company had relaunched most of its outbound tours, except for those to mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Saigontourist expected to serve 20,000 customers of outbound tours until the end of the year. Tours to Japan in autumn are put up for sale, the representative added. Meanwhile, Tran Thi Bao Thu, director of communications at Fiditour Vietluxtour, said in the high-end segment with tours worth VND20-40 million [$838-1,676] each person, many tourists prefer tours to South Korea and Japan at the end of the year and during the Tet [Lunar New Year] holiday. Fiditour Vietluxtour has received many bookings of tourists for these tours, Thu said, as cited by Nguoi Lao Dong. At present, South Korea has limited the number of travel companies which are designated to complete visa procedures on behalf of their customers, so domestic tourists should take notice of these travel companies. According to the South Korea Tourism Organization in Vietnam, in the January-August period of this year, South Korea welcomed some 80,000 Vietnamese visitors. It set a target of 150,000 Vietnamese tourists this year. The figure was 550,000 in 2019, news site The Saigon Times reported. Meanwhile, 33,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Japan in August, sending the total number of Vietnamese people coming to the country in the eight-month period to 160,600. Vietnam has taken the lead in the number of tourists entering Japan over the past few months. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The death toll from Hurricane Ian climbed past 80 on Sunday as embattled residents in Florida and the Carolinas faced a recovery expected to cost tens of billions of dollars, and some officials faced criticism over their response to the storm. The death toll was expected to keep rising as floodwaters receded and search teams pushed farther into areas initially cut off from the outside world. Hundreds of people have been rescued as emergency workers sifted through homes and buildings inundated with water or completely washed away. At least 85 storm-related deaths have been confirmed since Ian crashed ashore Florida's Gulf Coast with catastrophic force on Wednesday as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 miles per hour (240 km per hour). A destroyed car is seen in the Matanzas Pass after Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, U.S., October 1, 2022. Photo: Reuters Florida accounted for all but four of the fatalities, with 42 tallied by the sheriff's office in coastal Lee County, which bore the brunt of the storm when it made landfall, and 39 other deaths reported by officials in four neighboring counties. Officials in Lee County, which includes Fort Myers and Cape Coral and is on the Gulf Coast, have faced questions over whether they mandated evacuations in time. Cecil Pendergrass, chairman of the county's board of commissioners, said on Sunday that once the county was forecast to be in the cone, or the probable track of the hurricane's center, evacuation orders were given. Even then, some people chose to ride the storm out, Pendergrass said. "I respect their choices," he said at a press conference. "But I'm sure a lot of them regret it now." A destroyed marina in the Matanzas Pass is seen after Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, U.S., October 1, 2022. Photo: Reuters President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden will see the devastation in Florida firsthand on Wednesday, the White House said in a statement on Saturday. The Bidens will visit Puerto Rico on Monday, where hundreds of thousands of people were still without power two weeks after Hurricane Fiona hit the island. Cuba is restoring power after Ian knocked out electricity to the whole country of 11 million people, flattened homes and obliterated agricultural fields. North Carolina authorities said at least four people had been killed there. No deaths were immediately reported in South Carolina, where Ian made another U.S. landfall on Friday. Chugging over land since then, Ian has diminished into an ever-weakening post-tropical cyclone. The National Hurricane Center forecast more heavy rainfall was possible across parts of West Virginia and western Maryland into Sunday morning, and "major to record flooding" in central Florida. Destroyed buildings are seen after Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction in Sanibel Island, Florida, U.S., October 1, 2022. Photo: Reuters Washed away As the full scope of devastation became clearer, officials said some of the heaviest damage was inflicted by wind-driven ocean surf that raged into seaside communities and washed buildings away. Satellite images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) showed beach cottages and a motel that lined the shores of Florida's Sanibel Island had been demolished by storm surges. Although most homes appeared to still be standing, roof damage to all was evident. Surveys from the ground showed that the barrier island, a popular tourist getaway that was home to some 6,000, was devastated. "It's all just completely gone," Sanibel's city manager, Dana Souza, said. "Our electric system is pretty much destroyed, our sewer system has been damaged badly and our public water supply is under assessment." Beachgoers look at a large shrimping boat that was swept ashore by hurricane Ian in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, U.S., October 1, 2022. Photo: Reuters The island's link to the mainland was severed by breaches to its causeway bridge, further complicating recovery efforts, Souza said. After waning to a tropical storm by the end of its march across Florida to the Atlantic, Ian regained hurricane strength and pummeled coastal South Carolina on Friday, sweeping ashore near Georgetown, north of the historic port city of Charleston. Numerous roads were flooded and blocked by fallen trees while a number of piers were damaged in that area. More than 700,000 businesses and homes remained without power on Sunday afternoon in Florida alone, where more than 2 million customers lost electricity the first night of the storm. Insurers braced for between $28 billion and $47 billion in claims from what could amount to the costliest Florida storm since Hurricane Andrew in 1992, according to U.S. property data and analytics company CoreLogic. An extremely rare phenomenon occurred in Nam Dinh Province, northern Vietnam when dozens of tonnes of clams were pushed ashore by strong waves last week. Many locals who knew about this phenomenon rushed to the area to get what they called a 'gift from heaven.' On Thursday last week, hundreds of people flocked to an alluvial ground at Con Lu in Giao Thuy District, Nam Dinh Province to collect clams. Here, locals estimated that dozens of tonnes of clams were washed to shore by the waves. Picking up some live clams in the sand, Phung Thi Nhan, a local resident, said excitedly that although Storm No. 4, known internationally as Typhoon Noru, did not affect her province, it brought many 'gifts from heaven.' "I have collected almost three bags of shells since this morning," the woman said. "I do not understand why so many clams washed up on the shore." Local people rush to the alluvial land of Con Lu in Nam Dinh Province, northern Vietnam to collect washed-up shells, September 29, 2022. Photo: K. Linh / Tuoi Tre Mai Van Chuyen, one of the clam collectors, said his grandparents told him that clams could be washed ashore by waves after storms. "But we have not seen anything like this in a long time," Chuyen told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper. "When I came here, I saw that hundreds of people had gathered to collect shells. "I collected a bag because most of the clams were dead, so I had to choose live ones. "These are clams with thin shells, which are very tasty." Although dozens of tonnes of clams washed ashore in Nam Dinh Province, northern Vietnam, most of them died. Photo: K. Linh / Tuoi Tre Speaking to Tuoi Tre, Tran Quang Hung, head of the bureau of agriculture and rural development of Giao Thuy District, said the clams washing up ashore is an extremely rare natural phenomenon. According to Hung, at around 6:00 am that day, many white mussels appeared at the end of the Con Lu alluvial plain, washed ashore in surprisingly large numbers. In some places, as many as several dozen meters of shoreline were covered with white shells. Hung added that most of the small clams died while the larger ones survived big waves, so locals selected live clams for consumption or sale. "We estimate that more than 30 tonnes of clams were washed ashore by the waves," Hung said. Some experienced seafarers believe that such a phenomenon is not so rare. However, they have not seen such an enormous number of shells for many years. The mussels that washed ashore this time are called 'ngao bong' (literally 'cotton mussels') by the locals. This type of clam has a shell color of a mixture of purple and white and is difficult to catch under normal conditions. Many shells can be seen washed ashore in an alluvial area of Con Lu in Giao Thuy District, Nam Dinh Province, Vietnam. Photo: K. Linh / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! An official from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health confirmed on Monday morning that the city recorded its first case of monkeypox through epidemiological surveillance. Information about the case has been submitted to the Ministry of Health, which is expected to make an official announcement later on Monday. The Ho Chi Minh City health department said it was coordinating with relevant agencies to strengthen surveillance to detect cases in an early manner and prevent the disease from spreading. The health department previously issued a temporary guidance on the prevention and control of monkeypox, advising residents to report to local medical centers when they have symptoms such as fever of over 38 degrees Celsius, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle pain, back pain, and fatigue. Health workers will collect information from the cases and make an epidemiological investigation form within 21 days. Suspected patients will be instructed on how to quarantine and monitor their health at home. They should go to the citys Hospital for Tropical Diseases if their symptoms worsen. They must wear a face mask and avoid traveling to the hospital by public transportation. Regarding confirmed cases, the patient will be quarantined and treated at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases. The Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control will make a list of people who came into close contact with the confirmed cases and monitor their conditions according to regulations. According to the Ministry of Health, monkeypox is not a new disease and was first recorded in 1958 in monkeys raised for research. The first case in humans was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and has since become endemic in central and western Africa. In 2003, the first outbreak outside of Africa occurred in the United States and was associated with prairie dogs. Monekypox was then sporadically reported among travelers from Nigeria to Israel in October 2003, to the UK in September 2018, December 2019 and May 2021, to Singapore in May 2019, and to the U.S. in July and November 2021. The disease has developed abnormally since May as it was recorded in 12 European countries. This was the first time that outbreaks had been recorded in this region without any links to previous endemic areas. There has been a continuous increase in the number of monekypox cases and the number of countries and territories that have recorded the disease. On July 23, 2022, the World Health Organization declared this disease an international public health emergency. As of August 15, more than 35,000 cases of monkeypox had been recorded in 92 countries, including 12 deaths. A number of countries and territories close to Vietnam such as Thailand, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, China, and Japan have recorded imported cases. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! An hour-long downpour flooded many roads of Kon Tum City in the namesake province, located in Vietnams Central Highlands region, on Sunday afternoon while a flash flood swept through many residential areas in the border district of Ky Son, north-central Nghe An Province, earlier the same day. Sunday afternoons inundation in Kon Tum City increased many residents doubt on whether the local sewer system worked properly as the flooding happens every time it rains in recent years. Tran Hung Dao, Nguyen Hue, and Phan Dinh Phung Streets were among the most flooded roads in the city. People use a metal board to keep floodwaters away from their house in Kon Tum City, Kon Tum Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Tran Huong / Tuoi Tre The severity of flooding depends on the amount of rain, according to Dang The Bao, a local living in Thong Nhat Ward. Because this is in a low-lying area, the streets can be easily flooded as floodwaters cannot drain quickly every time it rains, Bao said. Light rains are not as bad as heavy ones, which can submerge the streets for three to four days before the water recedes, the man commented, adding that many former local residents chose to relocate to avoid the situation. People place a motorcycle in the middle of a flooded street to warn commuters of dangers in Kon Tum City, Kon Tum Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Tran Huong / Tuoi Tre Besides the sewer system, Pham Van Dung, Thong Nhat Wards chairman, blamed the increased urbanization. Local authorities are working on solutions to the problem, including building a ditch system. Cars wade through a flooded street in Kon Tum City, Kon Tum Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Tran Huong / Tuoi Tre On the same day, authorities and people in Ky Son, a border district in Nghe An Province, also struggled to deal with the consequences of a flash flood that had happened during the small hours of the morning. Early on Sunday morning, we were sleeping when heavy rain fell, Vi Van Muoi, a 38-year-old resident of Muong Xen Town, recalled. Then I heard a roaring sound as floodwaters quickly arrived. I could only wake my wife and children up to run away to a safe place, but couldnt bring anything with us. A flash flood sweeps through Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: N. Thang / Tuoi Tre The flash flood knocked down a house in Ta Ca Commune, killing a four-year-old child and leaving another kid missing, according to a report by the Peoples Committee of Ky Son. It washed away cars and many other valuable assets of the locals, spilled debris into buildings and houses, as well as blocked traffic on several roads. Many locals said that it has been more than a decade since they last saw such a devastating flash flood. Mud and floodwaters block National Highway 7 in Muong Xen Town following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: N. Thang / Tuoi Tre Rescuers have been sent to the affected residential areas, many of which were isolated by floodwaters and landslides, according to Ky Sons deputy chairman Tho Ba Re. The districts administration also requested the Peoples Committee of Nghe An Province promptly provide essential goods, supplies, and other necessities to help the people soon overcome the aftermath. In early September, floods caused damages of nearly VND80 billion (US$3.35 million) in many communes in the same district. Rocks and debris block houses following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Duong Tinh / Tuoi Tre A car is left on a muddy street following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Duong Tinh / Tuoi Tre A car is washed away to a bank office following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: N. Thang / Tuoi Tre Debris spills into a house following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Duong Tinh / Tuoi Tre A bulldozer clears mud left on a street following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: N. Thang / Tuoi Tre Mud blocks National Highway 7 in Muong Xen Town following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: N. Thang / Tuoi Tre Debris spills into a house following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: N. Thang / Tuoi Tre Debris spills into a bank office following a flash flood in Ky Son District, Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 2, 2022. Photo: Duong Tinh / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Sympathizing with a couple whose more than 4,000 chickens died due to flooding during heavy rains in a province in Vietnam last week, neighbors rushed to help them remove the dead chickens and turn them into animal feed. On the evening of September 30, dozens of people were still gathered in front of the culture house in Bau Xuan Village, Dien Doai Commune, Dien Chau District, north-central Nghe An Province. They did a favor to Nguyen Duc The and his wife by caring for the more than 4,000 chickens that died in a flood. The dead chickens were a great asset to the couple. Nguyen Thi Hien, The's wife, looked incredibly sad as she boiled hot water to process the dead chickens. She and her husband had been taking care of the chickens for several months, hoping to sell them in the near future. But the flood dealt a heavy blow to their poultry farm, killing their flock of chickens overnight. Hien recalled that she and her husband were extremely worried when they heard that Typhoon Noru might bring heavy rains, but they did not know where to shelter the 4,000 chickens. Without the help of neighbors, Nguyen Duc The and his wife could not have quickly processed the chickens into animal feed. Photo: Viet Phong / Tuoi Tre On the evening of September 29, Hien fed the chickens as usual. At 9:00 that day, it was pouring rain. Hien and her husband brought lights to check on the chicken farm, but the water level rose too quickly. "Within just an hour, the water was up to our waists. We had to return home because we were afraid something dangerous might happen," Hien recounted. It rained throughout the night, and Hien and The could not sleep out of concern for their farm. "When I went to check the next morning, I found that all the chickens had been drowned by the floodwaters," Hien said sadly. The said he bought over 4,000 chickens two months ago to raise them in a new flock. They had hoped to sell them soon, not expecting anything like this. The couple planned to bury the dead fowl but the arduous work they had done to care for them made that too difficult. When they learned about the poultry farm incident, a resort in Dien Chau District offered to help them and purchased all the dead chickens to feed its tigers on the condition that the poultry would have to be carefully prepared. The couple could not do the work quickly themselves and had to race against time if they wanted to sell all the dead fowl. That is why all the neighbors came together to help them. "My house was also flooded, but luckily the damage is less severe. We came to help The, hoping to support him to get as much as possible from the investment," said Tran Thi Tinh, a neighbor. According to The's calculations, selling more than three tonnes of dead chickens for VND17,000 (US$0.71) per kilogram could not offset his investment in chicks, food, and medicine. Neighbors processed dead chickens to clear more than 4,000 birds that died from a flood in Nghe An Province, Vietnam, September 30, 2022. Photo: Viet Phong / Tuoi Tre An official from the Dien Doan People's Committee said heavy rains and floods over the past days have caused great damage to local people's crops, livestock, and poultry. The's family has suffered the most damage. It is very gratifying that people in the community are supporting one another in this tricky situation, the official said. According to the Nghe An Command Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and Search and Rescue, six people had died in the floods by the afternoon of September 30, and another person is still missing. In addition, upwards of 66,000 heads of livestock were washed away by the floods. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Rabies cases have been detected and are on the rise in Vietnamese provinces which were not previously rabies hotspots, posing a high risk of outbreaks, according to the Ministry of Health. The ministry sent an official dispatch on the enhancement of rabies prevention and control to localities nationwide. The ministry clarified that rabies is one of the most dangerous infectious diseases. An average of 60,000 people in the world die of rabies per year. In Vietnam, it killed 76 people per year in the 2017-21 period, down 15 percent over the 2012-16 period. It is worth noting that the number of rabies deaths is surging in provinces which were not rabies hotspots before. For instance, southern Ben Tre Province has reported 12 deaths from rabies so far this year, double that in the same period last year. Meanwhile, Kien Giang Province has documented five fatalities caused by the disease, well above the one case year-on-year average. In addition, the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai has recorded four deaths, while it had no death from rabies in the same period in 2021. The World Health Organization in Vietnam said that in the January-August period of this year, 40 people in the country were killed by rabies. The number of deaths caused by the disease in 20 provinces in the 2017-21 period increased compared with the 2011-16 period. According to the Ministry of Health, the death is directly caused by many people who are bitten by rabid animals refusing to get vaccinated. The indirect reasons are the low rabies vaccination rate on pets and the poor management of dogs and cats in some localities. Around 40 percent of dogs and cats nationwide are vaccinated against rabies, according to a report by veterinary agencies, but the rate should be at least 70 percent for two consecutive years to prevent the transmission of rabies from animals to people. The risk of rabies outbreaks in these provinces and the transmission of the disease to other areas is high, the Ministry of Health stated in its statement. Therefore, the ministry asked the Peoples Committees of cities and provinces to require their Departments of Health to keep a close watch on people who are bitten by dogs and cats suspected of being infected with rabies. Moreover, they were assigned to call on residents to come to medical centers for a check-up, consultancy, and vaccination against rabies. The Department of Health of every province and city must also help residents access rabies vaccines and anti-rabies serums, and open more rabies vaccination sites, ensuring that a district or town has at least one rabies vaccination center. As for high-risk provinces, vaccination sites should be set up in communes as well. In addition, Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development were told to supervise and handle rabies-infected animal outbreaks, and promptly share the information so that Departments of Health can take the initiative in preventing the transmission of the rabies virus to people. Owners of dogs and cats should be equipped with measures to ensure safety for others in public places to prevent their pets from biting other people. They should be also educated on the benefits of vaccinating their pets against rabies. The Ministry of Health also requested cities and provinces to exempt or reduce the vaccination costs for poor, near-poor, ethnic minority people, those contributing to the countrys revolution, and those participating in the fight against rabies in high-risk areas. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Logo of Faurecia near the company's headquarters in Nanterre By Dina Kartit (Reuters) -France's Faurecia said its project to develop a new generations of hydrogen tanks was granted 213 million euros ($209 million) of support from the European Commission as part of the Hydrogen IPCEI programme. Faurecia's "Historhy Next" project aims to develop new generations of hydrogen tanks, both gaseous and liquid, by the end of 2027, it said in a statement. Faurecia, part of the Forvia group formed after its merger with German car parts company Hella, added that production would start in 2024 at its Allenjoie plant in France's Bourgogne-Franche-Comte region, with a goal of producing more than 100,000 units per year. Symbio, a joint-venture between Faurecia and Michelin, also has a hydrogen project waiting for European Commission approval, Faurecia said in a statement. ODDO BHF analyst Michael Foundoukidis said Faurecia's announcement, alongside Plastic Omnium's similar announcement last week, confirms the strength of French OE suppliers' offerings in the fuel cell sector. The European Commission in July authorised 15 member states to provide public funding of up to 5.4 billion euros ($5.48 billion) under the Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) programme to support research, innovation and first industrial deployment of hydrogen technologies in the region. Other French companies such as Gaztransport & Technigaz and McPhy Energy have also received funds to develop their respective gigafactory hydrogen projects as part of the IPCEI scheme. The European Commission had pledged to increase funding to support hydrogen, a fuel that can be produced using renewable power and which can replace fossil fuels in polluting industrial processes. ($1 = 1.0205 euros) (Reporting by Dina Kartit; editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and Jason Neely) Kim, 51 (San Diego, Calif.) and Usman, 33 (Nigeria) TLC Kim and Usman from 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After Kim Menzies was on her best behavior when she was introduced to Usman "Sojaboy" Umar's female friend. The San Diego native has expressed jealousy at Usman's musician lifestyle and his promise to take a second wife. During Sunday's episode of 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After?, however, Kim, 52, attempted to put her insecurities behind her to make a good impression on Usman's friends. It all began when Usman, 33, brought Kim to his birthday party despite their blowout fight that almost saw them break up the day before. In the aftermath, Kim promised no drama. Of course, that was before she knew there would be another woman in the friend group. RELATED: 90 Day Fiance's Kim Tells Usman to 'Go Look for 5,000 Wives' and Searches for Flights After Polygamy Fight Immediately upon seeing the woman, Kim copped to her insecurities. "Usman did not mention to me that he was bringing a female friend to his birthday party," Kim said in a confessional interview. "He's sitting there and I'm like, 'Whose this chick?' She's really pretty, and I'm really confident in myself, but she's everything I'm not." Kim realized she had to keep a level head. "I've shown him signs before that I'm not a jealous woman," she continued. "Maybe jealous of their age, but that's about it." With that in mind, Kim surprised Usman by attempting to befriend the woman. Switching seats with Usman's friend KB, Kim joined the woman for some "girl time" during the party. 90 Day Fiance's Kim Admits She Put Relationship with Usman 'on the Line' and Vows Never to Date Again. TLC TLC RELATED: The End for 90 Day Fiance's Usman and Kim? After Milkshake Toss He Warns: 'This Is Not Healthy for Us' Kim voiced her theory this might be the woman Usman planned to marry in order to bear children? "Usman didn't tell me about you. He doesn't tell me he has female friends," she began. "Like, is this the one he's gonna marry?" "Oh, no!" responded the friend, whose name is Ali. "No no no. I'm just a close friend. I'm the real platonic friend here." Story continues When Usman asked what was happening in the private, Ali responded, "Girly stuff," and Kim added, "We're friends." Despite her best efforts, Usman's friends weren't sold on his relationship with Kim. Ali shared her honest thoughts on Usman's relationship in an interview later. "Kim was really nice and fun," she began. "But Sojaboy is a celebrity. He's going to get any girl he wants to get in Nigeria. If I saw Usman and Kim walking down the streets, I'd definitely think something is fishy." 90 Day Fiance's Kim Reconsiders Letting Usman to Have a Second Wife: 'Your A-- Is Pissing Me Off' TLC Kim and Usman Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free weekly newsletter to get the biggest news of the week delivered to your inbox every Friday. Next, Kim and Usman have another hurdle to overcome when Kim meets his family. If all goes well, the couple will ask for Usman's parents' blessing. Throughout the season, Usman has threatened to call off the trip if Kim misbehaves and yet, despite a near breakup and a milkshake toss, they seemed to be on track. 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After? airs Sunday nights at 8 p.m. ET on TLC. Bermuda, a small island nation in the Atlantic, is gearing up for a constitutional clash with the UK Government BERMUDA is facing a constitutional crisis after the UK Government refused to give royal assent to a bill looking to legalise cannabis in the island nation. The government of Bermuda is run by the Progressive Labour Party (PLP), which won a significant majority (30 of the Berdmudian assemblys 36 seats) at a general election held in October 2020. One of its flagship policies was to legalise the recreational use of marijuana having already decriminalised possession of fewer than seven grams in 2017. The countrys premier, E David Burt, warned: If Her Majestys representative in Bermuda does not give assent to something that has been passed lawfully and legally under this local government, this will destroy the relationship we had with the United Kingdom. READ MORE: Jamaica 'will ditch Queen as head of state within three years', government says However, on September 7 the day after Liz Truss was officially appointed Prime Minister the UK Government refused to allow Bermuda to pass the law. Bermudian governor Rena Lalgie said she had been instructed by the UK Foreign Secretary, now James Cleverly, to refuse to consent to the bills passing. Lalgie (below) said the bill was not consistent with obligations held by the UK and Bermuda under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. She added: I have informed the Premier and relayed the UKs continued desire to work with Bermuda on reforms within the scope of our existing international obligations. UK Government Foreign office minister Jesse Norman echoed this statement in response to a parliamentary question from the SNPs Owen Thompson asking about the potential constitutional implications of the UK Government not providing assent to the Bermuda Cannabis Licensing Bill 2022. Thompson told The National that the UK Governments intervention in the politics of the Atlantic island nation was wrong and reckless. Story continues He went on: Not content with crashing our economy, Liz Truss's chaotic government also risks a constitutional crisis with Bermuda. By instructing the governor to block a bill they are damaging relations and showing disrespect for the Bermudian goverment. READ MORE: Could an indy Scotland take a tip from Barbados and dump the monarchy? It also clearly demonstrates the need for reform in an archaic system, harking back to the Empire of old. "In Scotland we already know what scant regard Tory governments hold for our democratic decisions, we have seen it for years. "The new Prime Minister is not having a very promising start to her premiership. As someone who pledged to 'stand up for freedom and democracy around the world' this is not a good way to show it. Perhaps she should focus on stopping the economic meltdown, sort her own policies out, and let Bermuda be." Bermudas attorney general, Kathy Lynn Simmons, set up a confrontation with the Tories over the policy. She said Londons interference was disappointing, but not surprising, given the confines of our constitutional relationship with the UK Government and their archaic interpretation of the narcotic conventions. Simmons added: The people of Bermuda have democratically expressed their desire for a regulated cannabis licensing regime, following the strong endorsement at the ballot box and an extensive public consultation process. The government of Bermuda intends to continue to advance this initiative, within the full scope of its constitutional powers, in keeping with our 2020 general election platform commitment. The opposition One Bermuda Alliance has publicly criticised the bill, suggesting the government knew it would lead to a clash with the UK in an attempt to push for full independence. However, the Royal Gazette quoted a source in the PLP dismissing these allegations. They said: We said we would push for cannabis legislation, and we did. If we were going to push for independence, we would. Royal assent in Bermuda, like in Scotland and the UK, is the final stage in the passing of a governments bill before it becomes law. It is often seen as a formality, especially in the UK. A Foreign Office spokesperson said: Bermudas proposed cannabis licensing bill is not consistent with the UK or the territorys international obligations. (Bloomberg) -- The European market for Russias seaborne crude is drying up as sanctions draw nearer, and the countrys Asian customers arent picking up the slack like they once were. Most Read from Bloomberg With just over two months until a European Union ban on seaborne crude imports comes into effect, shipments to the bloc plus the UK are down by about 60% from where they were before Moscows troops invaded Ukraine. Customers in northern Europe in particular have slashed their purchases, which are now running below 200,000 barrels a day, down by 1 million from the levels seen at the start of the year. Meanwhile the diversion of crude flows from Europe to Asia appears to have reached a plateau. Flows to the big three buyers of Russian barrels China, India and Turkey which initially stepped in to fill the gap after European buyers started to shun Moscows exports, peaked in June at 2.2 million barrels a day. In the four weeks to Sept. 30 that figure was down by about 350,000 barrels a day. While the volume on tankers yet to show final destinations may narrow that gap, it wont eliminate it completely. While total crude flows shipped out of Russia in the week to Sept. 30 edged higher, the four-week average, which smooths out some of the noise in the data, moved in the opposite direction. A US plan to impose a price cap that would see purchasers granted access to insurance and other essential services only if the price paid is below a yet-to-be-determined threshold, is creating confusion among buyers. Lack of clarity over the level at which the cap will be set, uncertainty over when it will be implemented, and few details on how it will be policed, are leaving would-be purchasers of Russian crude in limbo until the situation is clarified. Story continues Even though Russia has said it wont sell its oil to anyone who imposes a price cap and its major customers remain unlikely to endorse the plan, the existence of such a mechanism may boost the bargaining power key customers China, India and Turkey have over Russia for future purchases. On top of this, Russias revenues face another headwind from a further drop in export duty rates, which are set to shrink by 15% in October. That will take the per-barrel income to its lowest since February 2021, reflecting both lower international crude prices and a widening discount for Urals against Brent crude during the mid-August to mid-September period. The Kremlin will seek to offset lower export duty revenues with dividend payments. Shareholders in gas giant Gazprom PJSC, where the Russian state holds a 50% stake, voted at an extraordinary meeting to pay the producers first-ever interim dividends. Crude Flows by Destination: Overall exports remained below 3 million barrels a day for a third week; thats the longest period since early March that this measure of shipments has been beneath that threshold. The drop was driven by lower flows to northern Europe, while shipments to Asian markets remained steady. All figures exclude cargoes identified as Kazakhstans KEBCO grade. These are shipments made by KazTransoil JSC that transit Russia for export through Ust-Luga and Novorossiysk. The Kazakh barrels are blended with crude of Russian origin to create a uniform export grade. Since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Kazakhstan has rebranded its cargoes to distinguish them from those shipped by Russian companies. Transit crude is specifically exempted from EU sanctions on Russias seaborne shipments that are due to come into effect in December. Crude Flows by Destination: At 660,000 barrels a day, Russias seaborne crude exports to European countries fell to their lowest for the year so far in the four weeks to Sept. 30, dropping by 136,000 barrels a day, or 17%, from the period to Sept. 23. A small increase in flows to buyers in the Black Sea region was more than outweighed by the continuing decline in volumes to northern Europe. These figures do not include shipments to Turkey. The volume shipped from Russia to northern European countries fell below 200,000 barrels a day on average in the four weeks to Sept. 30. Total shipments to northern Europe and the flow to storage tanks in Rotterdam both set new lows for the year so far. Exports to Mediterranean countries slipped in the four weeks to Sept. 30, with a drop in shipments to Italy. Flows to Mediterranean countries, including Turkey, which is excluded from the European figures at the top of this section, fell to a seven-week low. Combined flows to Bulgaria and Romania rose for a second week. Nevertheless flows to Romania, which were running at about 120,000 barrels a day before Russias invasion of Ukraine, have slowed to a trickle. Shipments to Russias Asian customers, plus those on vessels showing no final destination, which typically end up in either India or China, rose for a third week, reaching their highest in six weeks. All of the tankers carrying crude to unidentified Asian destinations are signaling Port Said or the Suez Canal, with final discharge points unlikely to be apparent until they have passed through the waterway into the Red Sea, at the earliest. Most of those ships end up in India, though an increasing number have been heading to China in recent weeks. Flows by Export Location Aggregate flows of Russian crude increased for a second week, rising by 173,000 barrels a day, or 6%, in the seven days to Sept. 30, compared with the previous week. Flows from the Baltic ports and from the Pacific terminal at Kozmino were up, while Black Sea and Arctic shipments fell. Figures exclude volumes from Ust-Luga and Novorossiysk identified as Kazakhstans KEBCO grade. Export Revenue Inflows to the Kremlin's war chest from its crude-export duty edged up alongside higher volumes, rising to a four-week high of $162 million in the seven days to Sept. 30. But the four-week average income moved in the opposite direction, dropping to a 13-week low of $145 million. Export duty rates are falling again in October, dropping by 15% to $6.06 a barrel, taking the per barrel rate to its lowest since February 2021. The drop reflects both a slide in Brent prices and a widening of the discount for Urals against the North Sea benchmark. That discount during the mid-August to mid-September period widened to about $21.50 a barrel, up from about $18.70 a barrel the previous month, according to Bloomberg calculations using figures published by the Russian Ministry of Finance. Origin-to-Location Flows The following charts show the number of ships leaving each export terminal and the destinations of crude cargoes from the four export regions. A total of 31 tankers loaded 22.9 million barrels of Russian crude in the week to Sept. 30, vessel-tracking data and port agent reports show. Thats up by 1.2 million barrels, to a four-week high. Destinations are based on where vessels signal they are heading at the time of writing, and some will almost certainly change as voyages progress. All figures exclude cargoes identified as Kazakhstans KEBCO grade. The total volume of crude on ships loading Russian crude from Baltic terminals was up for a second week, rising by 208,000 barrels a day. Shipments from Novorossiysk in the Black Sea fell back, giving up part of the gain seen the previous week. Arctic shipments slipped to a three-week low, with two vessels departing Murmansk in the week to Sept. 30, both heading to Rotterdam. Crude flows from Russias eastern oil terminals edged higher in the week to Sept. 30. Eight cargoes of ESPO and one of Sakhalin Blend crude were loaded, with all but one of the cargoes heading to China. The other ship is yet to show a destination, but is most likely heading for India. Note: This story forms part of a regular weekly series tracking shipments of crude from Russian export terminals and the export duty revenues earned from them by the Russian government. Note: All figures have been revised to exclude cargoes owned by Kazakhstans KazTransOil JSC, which transit Russia and are shipped from Novorossiysk and Ust-Luga. Note: Aggregate weekly seaborne flows from Russian ports in the Baltic, Black Sea, Arctic and Pacific can be found on the Bloomberg terminal by typing {ALLX CUR1 } Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. Lindsey Buckingham has cancelled the rest of his UK and Ireland tour due to ongoing health issues. The former Fleetwood Mac guitarist had been touring around Europe in recent weeks, playing in London on Saturday (1 October). This week, he was scheduled to perform three more shows in Glasgow, Liverpool and Dublin this week, the earliest being on Monday (3 October) night. However, on Sunday (2 October), it was announced that the rest of the tour would not be going ahead due to undisclosed health problems. Due to ongoing health issues, Lindsey is regrettably having to cancel the remaining shows on his current European tour, the statement read. Refunds will be available from the point of purchase. Lindsey sends his deepest apologies to all of his fans who were planning to attend and hopes to return to Europe in the future. According to his website, Buckingham is still scheduled to perform a string of shows across the US from 26 October into November. In 2019, the 73-year-old underwent emergency open heart surgery that resulted in vocal cord damage. While it is unclear if the damage is permanent, we are hopeful it is not, his wife Kirsten said at the time. Sky News Just last month Liz Truss told Britons they could "ride out the storm" in her first speech as prime minister - now she has been warned "the game is up" as rumours swirl of plots to oust her. Tory MPs have started to publicly call for Ms Truss to step down, while former chancellor George Osborne has predicted she will most likely be gone "before Christmas". The new chancellor, brought in to replace the sacked Kwasi Kwarteng, is now widely seen as the most powerful figure in government as he attempts to reshape the PM's own economic plans to reassure the markets. Photo Illustration by Erin O'Flynn/The Daily Beast/Getty Vladimir Putin must go. His demented Kremlin speech Friday, during a ceremony in which he feebly asserted Russia was annexing portions of Ukraine, made the strongest case for the necessity of regime change in Moscow that any world leader has yet to make. But it has been clear the Russian dictator must be removed from office for a long time now. It has been clear because Putins actions and rhetoric demonstrate day in and day out that Ukraine can never be secure as long as he remains in office. It has been clear because none of Russias neighbors can be secure with a megalomaniacal lunatic next door who speaks of Russian empire and constantly threatens to rewrite the borders of sovereign states. Italys Far-Right Victory Is a (Small) Win for Putin It has been clear because the world cant be stable as long as the man who controls the planets largest stockpile of nuclear weapons is one whose power is unchecked at home, who shows such contempt for both international law and human decency, and whose ambitions are so untethered to reality. Justice also requires that Putin leave office. He is a serial war criminal, one of the worst the world has seen in the modern era. He has laid waste to a sovereign nation. He is responsible for the deaths of tens of thousands. He has embraced the language and practice of genocide. His armies have committed war crimes. Mass graves attest to his brutality. What is more, his crimes are not limited to the human suffering he has unleashed upon Ukraine. Other violations of fundamental laws and myriad atrocities can be traced to decisions he has madefrom Russias leveling of Grozny in Chechnya to Russias active support for and participation in horrors in Syria; from the invasion of Georgia to Putins murderous campaign against dissidents within his own country. Putin, for years, has provided evidence not only to international prosecutors but to every sentient being on the planet that he is not a legitimate leader. He does not deserve to be swathed in the protections normally accorded to foreign heads of state. He has no more claim on them than did past monstersfrom Hitler to Saddam to Gadhafi, from Pol Pot to Milosevic. Story continues The dead of Bucha and Melitipol or Izyum make that case with their absence. So do the victims of Russian torture, of bombed hospitals, schools and train stations, of mass kidnapping, and of unceasing terror being visited by Russian missiles, artillery and troops upon innocentsvictims of the misfortune of living next door to one of historys most repulsive miscreants. No one could listen to Putins rambling Friday rant and draw any conclusion other than the fact that the longer Putin remains in office, the greater the damage he will do. Russian President Vladimir Putin with Ukrainian regional separatist leaders attends the annexation ceremony of four Ukrainian regions at the Grand Kremlin Palace, Sept. 30, 2022 in Moscow, Russia. Contributor/Getty Images If the absurd spectacle of a signing ceremony asserting Russian control of Ukrainian territory featuring Kremlin stooges and nationalistic chants did not chill observers to the bone, then Putins belligerent language condemning the enemy in the West and his intimations that he might be within his rights to use nuclear weapons certainly should. He mocked international law. He condemned U.S. satanism. He called on Ukraine to negotiate but said that the fate of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson was not on the table, that they would be parts of Russia forever. When President Joe Biden said of Putin in May, For Gods sake, this man cannot remain in power, it was followed by a swift clarification from the White House that the president was not discussing Putins power in Russia, or regime change. But as we have gradually come to learn, Bidens seemingly spontaneous comments on crucial issues of international policy to which he has devoted decades of studywhether they concern Putin or Taiwanare not gaffes. They instead are expressions of common sense, acknowledgements of reality that diplomats may wish were unspoken, that cannot be the official policy of the U.S., but that are signs that the president understands clearly the reality on the ground and U.S. interests. That is good because tiptoeing around the threat posed by Putin, hoping that accommodating him would lead to moderation in his behavior certainly has not worked. Indeed with every respectful, restrained response to Putins aggression or abuses, we have only seen an escalation of his offenses. As Bad as the World Looks Right Now, Its Actually Worse The measured responses to his aggression of the Bush or the Obama years did not work. Nor did the slavering obsequiousness of former President Donald Trump. Indeed, the ostpolitik of Angela Merkel and the vacillations of French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders have actually aided and empowered Putin. No doubt Putins allieslike the talking heads at Fox News, the leaders of the MAGA caucus on Capitol Hill, and Putinistas across Europewill warn that to even speak of the need to remove Putin from office will provoke him, perhaps even lead him to unleash nuclear weapons in Ukraine or against the West. How do we know that? Because that was the response to Bidens moment of public honesty and realism on this issue. Many others, including some well-respected foreign policy experts, suggested we should not corner Putin with a public stance demanding his removal. Some of those experts correctly observe that the U.S. has a checkered history seeking regime change. They argue that there are no good alternatives to Putin, and so getting rid of him might produce an even worse outcome, whether that is the chaos associated with a leadership void or a more dangerous leader. But go back and listen to his Friday speech. It makes clear that we are well past the point where the dangers of his remaining in power are greater than the dangers that might be caused by his fall. Further, removing the worlds autocrats and thug heads of state has actually not generally produced worse successors. That was certainly true in the cases of Hitler, Mussolini, Milosevic, Pol Pot, and many others. Next, acknowledging that Putin must go is not the same as making regime change a matter of public policy. For governments it can (and largely should) remain an unexpressed goal. That said, certain sanctions imposed on Russia should remain in place until Russia changes key policies and positions that are indelibly associated with Putin, which in effect will mean until Putin is gone. Certain defensive postures of the west should remain in place until the threat from Russia has abated. We can do more than we currently are to help covertly support Russias opposition, especially those whose values align with ours. Perhaps most importantly, we can ensure that any sort of lasting Russian victory in Ukraine is not an option and that Putins terms will never be met, his aggression never rewarded. With such policies, we can actively encourage the people of Russia to recognize that their country will not have a future as long as Putin remains in power. Putin is assisting on this front. By undertaking a massive military conscription campaign, one that may call up as many as 1 million troops, who will then be under-equipped, under-trained, and likely victims of a war they did not seek against neighbors who are not in any ways their enemies, he has already lit the fuse on a potential national backlash. Millions and millions of Russians will increasingly feel the pain and loss associated with Putins war in ways that they did not before, in ways that Russian propaganda cannot hide or dress up. Putins Headed Toward Defeat in Ukraine. The Only Question Is How Bad a Loser Hell Be. Protests in Russia are already growing bolder. Celebrities and business leaders are speaking out more clearly. How long will it be before the security services that surround and protect Putin begin to see the fact that he is a threat to their well-being, to their lives, to the futures of their families? Accepting the reality that Putin must go is just common sense at this point. Recognizing that reality, we should embrace policies that encourage the conditions that will make it come to pass. We should also prepare for the consequences of such a change and make sure to send Moscow the message that Russias neighbors and the community of nations welcome a more responsible Russiawhile also making clear that we are ready to defend ourselves against one that makes the mistake of continuing (or making worse) Putins policies. As for making the case to the Russian people that they must act, we need not do that. Putin, with speeches like Fridays and self-inflicted catastrophes like Ukraine, is already doing that far more persuasively than we could hope to do. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Rendez-vous: The Best of Arts in Europe This week, we travel to Zurich's film festival with Charlotte Gainsbourg and Eddie Redmayne and stop at London's National Gallery to see the Lucian Freud exhibition and his hyper-realistic nude paintings. In Paris, we head south of Ile Saint-Louis to the Institut du Monde Arabe to admire the unprecedented LGBT art of the Arab World. And if you're walking down the Paseo de Recoletos in Madrid, finish your journey at the Fundacion MAPFRE, which holds a Julio Gonzalez and Pablo Picasso exhibition "the dematerialization of sculpture". Zurich Film Festival The Zurich Film Festival is one of the great autumn cinema events, and the biggest in Switzerland. It offers a rich selection of films from Europe and elsewhere as well as numerous previews and tributes in the presence of international stars such as Liam Neeson and Diane Kruger who both graced the "green" carpet this week. And two European actors were awarded this year with a "Golden Eye", the French-English Charlotte Gainsbourg and Britain's Eddie Redmayne. The event takes place at the Zurich Festival centre and ends this Sunday 2nd of October. Lucian Freud: New Perspectives A major new exhibition has opened this week at the National Gallery in London featuring the work of European's best-known figurative painters, Lucian Freud (1922-2011). The show aims to depict how Freud's painting evolved over 70 years. Throughout his long career, Freud sought to get closer to his models, to pierce their intimacy through the pigments of his paint. From highly prominent to low profile people, intimate or anonymous, clothed or naked; all his characters are without make-up under Freud's brush. Lucian Freud: New Perspectives ends on January 22nd 2023. Habibi, the revolutions of love "We wanted to make visible what has remained invisible for too long" In the French capital, L'Institut du Monde Arabe is presenting an exhibition which offers, for the first time, a journey through the queer culture of the Arab world, shaken by gender issues. Story continues A total of 23 artists (painters, photographers, visual artists and illustrators) from the Maghreb, the Mashreq, Iran and Afghanistan, as well as from the diaspora, make up the exhibition entitled "Habibi (my love), the revolutions of love". The show is on until February 19th 2023. Julio Gonzalez, Pablo Picasso and the dematerialisation of sculpture The exhibition "Julio Gonzalez, Pablo Picasso and the dematerialisation of sculpture" deals with a joint work that has been considered by some art historians as the moment in which the "invention" of iron sculpture took place. This is about two almost contemporary artists, whose personalities and trajectories are certainly different, but biographically parallel and culturally close. The works that the artists produced together can be seen in the exhibition at the Fundacion MAPFRE in Madrid until January 8th 2023. TRIPOLI (Reuters) -Libya's Tripoli government signed a preliminary deal on energy exploration on Monday, prompting Greece and Egypt to say they would oppose any activity in disputed areas of the eastern Mediterranean. Libya's eastern-based parliament, which backs an alternative administration, also rejected the deal. Speaking at a ceremony in Tripoli, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush said the deal was one of several in a memorandum of understanding on economic issues aimed at benefiting both countries. It was not immediately clear whether any concrete projects to emerge would include exploration in the "exclusive economic zone" which Turkey and a previous Tripoli government agreed in 2019, angering other eastern Mediterranean states. That zone envisaged the two countries sharing a maritime border but was attacked by Greece and Cyprus and criticised by Egypt and Israel. "It does not matter what they think," said Cavusoglu when asked if other countries might object to the new memorandum of understanding. "Third countries do not have the right to interfere," he added. Greece's foreign ministry said on Monday that Greece had sovereign rights in the area which it intended to defend "with all legal means, in full respect of the international law of the sea." It cited a 2020 pact between Athens and Egypt, designating their own exclusive economic zone in the eastern Mediterranean, which Greek diplomats have said effectively nullified the 2019 accord between Turkey and Libya. "Any mention or action enforcing the said 'memorandum' will be de facto illegitimate and depending on its weight, there will be a reaction at a bilateral level and in the European Union and NATO," the Greek foreign ministry said in a statement. An Egyptian foreign ministry's statement said on Monday that Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry received a phone call from his Greek counterpart, Nikos Dendias, where they discussed the developments in Libya. Story continues They both stressed that "the outgoing 'government of unity' in Tripoli does not have the authority to conclude any international agreements or memoranda of understanding," the Egyptian foreign ministry's statement added. Dendias posted on Twitter about his phone call with Shoukry, saying both sides challenged the "legitimacy of the Libyan Government of National Unity to sign the said MoU," and that he will visit Cairo for consultations on Sunday. Turkey has been a significant supporter of the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNU) under Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, whose legitimacy is rejected by the Libyan parliament. Parliament Speaker Aguila Saleh, seen as an ally of Egypt, said the memorandum of understanding was illegal because it was signed by a government that had no mandate. The political stalemate over control of government has thwarted efforts to hold national elections in Libya and threatens to plunge the country back into conflict. (Reporting by Ahmed Elumami in Tripoli, Ayman al-Warfali in Benghazi and Ali Kucukgocmen in Istanbul; Additional reporting by Angeliki Koutantou in Athens, Nayera Abdallah in Cairo;Writing by Angus McDowall; Editing by Ed Osmond and Chizu Nomiyama) (Bloomberg) -- Turkey on Monday condemned the USs decision to add Cyprus to a security cooperation program, saying that Washington is losing its impartiality in the dispute surrounding the divided island. Most Read from Bloomberg The US move came two weeks after it lifted a decades-old arms embargo on the internationally-recognized Greek Cypriot government located in the south of the Island. In response, Turkey first pledged to boost defenses of the Turkish Cypriots in the north of the island -- a breakaway republic thats only recognized by Turkey itself. On Monday, Turkeys foreign ministry said the latest US step had no justification and disrupted the balance between the two sides on the island. The US has evidently become partial, it said in a statement. Tensions over Cyprus come at a time when Turkey and Greece are engaged in a war of words over what Ankara says is a growing Greek military buildup on Aegean islands as well as Western military support to Athens. Read more: Turkey to Use All Means to Defend Its Interests in Greek Spat National Guard Partnership The State Partnership Program, that the US added Cyprus to, is a security cooperation tool, facilitating cooperation across all aspects of international civil-military affairs, according to the US National Guards website. Cyprus will be paired with the New Jersey National Guard for the program, a US Department of Defense statement said. Read more: Cyprus Fears Becoming Weakest Link in Turkey, Greece Tensions The Mediterranean island -- less than half the size of New Jersey -- was effectively partitioned in 1963 when fighting erupted between its two main groups: Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Story continues It was fully divided in 1974 after Turkey intervened, capturing the northern third of the island, saying it intended to protect the minority Turkish Cypriots following an Athens-backed coup by supporters of union with Greece. Read more: The Conflicts That Keep Turkey and Greece at Odds: QuickTake US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met Ibrahim Kalin, the spokesman of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in Istanbul on Sunday, and urged Turkey to seek dialogue and diplomacy to resolve any disagreements in the Eastern Mediterranean, the White House said in a statement. A spokesman for the Greek government said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis would respond positively if Erdogan sought a bilateral meeting in Prague, where leaders of the European Union and other regional countries will meet later this week. (Adds Greek government comment on possible bilateral meeting in the final paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. A top Iranian official has urged security forces to deal with protesters harshly as videos emerged of people running down a street while gunfire rang out. Some of the most serious protests in the country for years have been taking place over the past two weeks following the death of Mahsa Amini. The 22-year-old woman died after being detained by morality police for allegedly not adhering to the country's strict Islamic dress code, with her family claiming she was "tortured". On Sunday, Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf warned that protests over her death could destabilise the country. He told politicians that unlike the current protests, which he said aimed to topple the government, previous demonstrations by teachers and retirees over pay were aimed at reforms. "The important point of the (past) protests was that they were reform-seeking and not aimed at overthrowing" the system, Mr Qalibaf said. "I ask all who have any (reasons to) protest not to allow their protest to turn into destabilising and toppling" of institutions, he added. During the parliamentary session, politicians chanted "thank you police" in a show of support for a crackdown on the widespread demonstrations. Gunfire, tear gas and at least '133 people killed' His comments came as Iranian security forces clashed with students who were protesting at a prominent university in the country's capital, Tehran. Several videos have emerged of people running as gunfire rang out near Sharif University. One clip showed security forces firing tear gas to drive the students off the campus, and the sound of what appeared to be shooting in the distance could be heard. Students had been protesting at numerous universities on Sunday and demonstrations were held in several cities such as Tehran, Yazd, Kermanshah, Sanandaj, Shiraz and Mashhad, with participants chanting "independence, freedom, death to Khamenei", earlier social media posts showed. Story continues Iran Human Rights, a Norway-based group, said that "so far 133 people had been killed across Iran", including more than 40 people it said died in clashes last week in Zahedan, capital of the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province. A 23-year-old TikTok star named Hadis Najafi was among those shot dead during the demonstrations. Iranian authorities have not provided specific details of the number of people killed, but have said many members of the security forces have been killed by "rioters and thugs backed by foreign foes". Around the world, waves of women have been protesting and cutting off their hair in solidarity with Iranian women. What happened to Mahsa Amini? Ms Amini was arrested on 13 September for wearing her hijab too loosely, which is deemed as "unsuitable attire" under Iran's Islamic dress code. She died three dates later in hospital after falling into a coma. While details of her post-mortem have not been released, her family have said she was "tortured" and claims a report from the hospital shows she "suffered a concussion from a blow to the head". Click to subscribe to the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts Iranian police claim Ms Amini died of a heart attack and deny she was beaten to death in custody. Independent experts affiliated with the United Nations say reports suggested she was severely beaten by the morality police, without offering evidence. The country's hardline President Ebrahim Raisi has ordered an investigation into her death. A new multi-disciplinary arts group aims to showcase African talent living in Northern Ireland, and aid community cohesion. The Africa Arts Collective aims to be a platform for artists, from dancers to musicians, to showcase themselves. Cuthbert Tura Arutura of Africa House NI said the idea came from African artists living in Northern Ireland who felt they were individually unable to make impact and secure a wide range of work. Cuthbert Tura Arutura (Niall Carson/PA) He described the impact of the coronavirus pandemic as exasperating their reach. Mr Arutura said artists want to share their culture with people in Northern Ireland. We have seen that African and Irish people have a lot of shared experiences and art is a way to express that, he said. This type of initiative addresses the isolation some arriving in Northern Ireland, and is also another way that people can network. It is all about empowerment. On October 5, African and Northern Ireland artists will gather to mark the forming of the group at the Markets Community Centre in Belfast. Rahim Saphy, an acrobat, dancer and comedian from Tanzania, is the first chairperson of the group. The Africa Arts Collective will bring joy, vibrancy, colour and inspiration to the local arts scene, he said. Water-saving rice helps farmers secure bumper harvest amid drought Xinhua) 09:49, October 03, 2022 HEFEI, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Though having been undergoing prolonged heat and drought since this summer, Chen Lei's rice field in Changfeng County, east China's Anhui Province, is still expected to reap a bumper harvest at the end of October. Unlike common rice grown in paddy fields, the water-saving and drought-resistant rice varieties grown by Chen were sowed on dry land, while their output is about the same as common rice. Around 20 km away in Hefei City, capital of Anhui, a seminar held in late September gathered experts countrywide to discuss these new rice varieties. "Agricultural water consumption accounts for over 70 percent of the total water consumption in China, and rice irrigation accounts for over 70 percent of the agricultural water consumption," said Luo Lijun, chief scientist of the Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center. After years of research, Luo and his team combined the good qualities of traditional rice with the drought resistance of upland rice to cultivate the new varieties, which can save about 50 percent of water and 30 percent of fertilizer usage. As heat and drought swept many regions of China this year, the new rice varieties have helped many farmers secure production. According to Luo, over 3 million mu (200,000 hectares) of these varieties have been grown in China as of now, including around half of them in Anhui. "Despite persistent heat, I only watered the field twice this year, and the rice still grows well," said Chen, who expanded his rice field from 300 mu last year to 1,000 mu. He also spent less on electricity for irrigation, as well as pesticide and herbicide thanks to the new varieties. Meanwhile, the water-saving and drought-resistant rice can reduce about 90 percent of the emission of methane, a greenhouse gas, compared with common varieties, said Zhou Sheng, deputy director of the Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Low-carbon Agriculture, at the seminar. Luo's team is striving to achieve an annual planting area of 10 million mu of the new varieties during the 2021-2025 period, which will reduce 156,000 tonnes of methane emissions from rice fields annually, equivalent to about 4.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide. The special varieties have also been introduced to nearly 20 countries overseas, including 11 African countries, according to Liu Zaochang, a researcher with the Shanghai Agrobiological Gene Center. "We have been developing new varieties based on the local weather and climate of foreign countries, wishing to contribute our part to global food security," said Liu. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) "I hope I can be that inspiration to other females in the Corps of Cadets," Armstrong said. "If they put in the work, their dreams are possible." Aguilar Jimenez, a senior from Canon, Georgia, pursuing a degree in political science with a pre-law concentration, appreciates the support he has received from those in the Corps of Cadets, along with his friends and family. "I've been blessed enough to have great leadership throughout my four years here," Aguilar Jimenez said. "They have influenced me to become the best I can." Isley, a senior from Milledgeville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in criminal justice, said his time in the specialty unit Mountain Order of Colombo has made a major impact on his trajectory. "It helped me learn a lot about myself mentally and physically," Isley said. "We went through things together that I will never forget, and this unit encouraged me to become an ambitious person." The cadets and their families were honored Sept. 24 during the annual DMS Banquet. The DMS Review and Banquet were part of the seventh annual Boar's Head Brigade-Corps Alumni Weekend, which brought together current and former cadets. Retired Staff Sgt. David G. Bellavia spoke Sept. 23 at the Convocation Center to start the weekend. Bellavia is a Medal of Honor recipient for his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. One of the efforts this year was created by the family of lifelong educator Sandra H. Mercier, whose namesake scholarship supports students at UNG's Blue Ridge Campus pursuing a degree in Education. "Sandra Mercier made a difference in the lives of students in north Georgia for many years and her scholarship will continue to make a difference in the lives of future educators in the county," Sandy Ott, Blue Ridge Campus executive director, said. The McNair Scholars Program has started a new scholarship meant to support McNair students' transition to graduate studies. It seeks to raise $5,000 to help with the costs associated with the graduate admissions process and enrollment. "The McNair Scholars Program supports first-generation or underrepresented undergraduate students who desire to attend graduate school," Crystal Toombs, program director of the McNair Program, said. "Our program clarifies the research and graduate school process, which reduces academic disparities by removing some of the barriers to academic success. The Martha Lu Scholarship is the first-created in the Phi Mu Scholarships Fund created to help active members. Martha Lu Woolfolk, the wife of former chemistry professor J. Byron Woolfolk and a Phi Mu, was a beloved first-grade teacher in Lumpkin County. She and Dr. Woolfolk dedicated their lives to supporting and uplifting the students and UNG, as well as students in the larger Dahlonega community. The Phi Mu fundraising committee hopes to endow the scholarship by March when the sorority's UNG chapter celebrates its 50th anniversary. Other scholarships within the campaign include: The University of North Georgia (UNG) is supporting cancer survivors this fall with a specialized fitness program on UNG's Dahlonega and Gainesville campuses. It is one of a pair of efforts that will coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the other being a breast cancer expert speaker panel Oct. 5. Beginning Oct. 18 and continuing for four weeks, "Happy, Alive and Built to Survive" is an exercise and wellness program for cancer survivors. Jenny Whitmire will lead the Gainesville class, and William Jackson will lead the Dahlonega program. Both instructors are nationally certified personal trainers who have received cancer specialist credentialing. Meri-Leigh Smith, UNG associate director of wellness and health promotion, said the trainers want to help people be active. "Our trainers are fabulous at recognizing where you are and helping you grow from there," Smith said. "You're not going to have to lift weights if you're only comfortable with body-weight movements. That's where we'd start, and if that's what you want to continue with, the path is really up to you. We just kind of provide the guidance on how to get there." The class is not just for physical fitness. It is also about creating community. The Mike Cottrell College of Business will welcome a pair of leaders for the Cottrell Speaker Series this month. The speakers will share their experience and insights with University of North Georgia (UNG) faculty, staff, students, and local business community members. "We look forward to welcoming Stephanie Stuckey and Andy Hiles as part of our Cottrell Speaker Series," Dr. Mary Gowan, dean of the MCCB, said. "These events provide an opportunity for students to learn from successful leaders from a wide range of industries and better understand how what they are learning in the classroom plays out in organizations." Stuckey's CEO Stephanie Stuckey begins the series at noon Oct. 12 in Nesbitt room 3110 at UNG's Gainesville Campus. Stuckey purchased Stuckey's in November of 2019 and assumed the role of CEO. Stuckey's Corporation, the roadside oasis since 1937, is known for Southern hospitality and candies, including its pecan log roll. Stuckey received both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Georgia. She worked as a trial lawyer, was elected to seven terms as a state representative, ran an environmental law firm, served as director of sustainability for Atlanta, and taught as an adjunct professor at the UGA School of Law. Her achievements include being named one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians by Georgia Trend magazine, and she is a graduate of Leadership Atlanta. She serves on the corporate board for Bealls, a Florida-based retailer with more than 550 stores, and the nonprofit board for Society for Commercial Archeology, an organization dedicated to preserving roadside Americana. Stuckey will discuss reviving a third-generation family business and learning from the top down. A workshop titled The Know 1: Lean Thinking as part of Post-Covid19 Working Life , organised by Respect Vietnam and AmCham Vietnam on September 29, 2022, has shed light on the implementation of IWRs in Vietnam. It was the first out of five training workshops in The Know Series, which features new value-added learning approaches for higher productivity and efficiency post-pandemic. The event was co-hosted by Cancham, KoCham, InCham, CTCVN, HKBAV and Singapore Business Group. Weatwork.co, VCOL- Vietnam Community of Learning Organizations, and the Asia Foundation are the co-sponsors. Speaking at the event, Ha Dang, the founder and strategic advisor of Respect Vietnam said, Lean thinking has become essential for business in Vietnam post-COVID. Businesses in different fields, ranging from service to manufacturing sectors, are looking to adopt lean thinking to reduce wastes while maintaining or increasing values. As a research and consulting organisation, Respect Vietnam has conducted several surveys to explore the relationship between employees and employers in the past years. The biggest survey covers 100 companies across 13 localities in Vietnam, which employ over 100,000 employees. The findings reveal that 50 per cent of employees dont fully understand the rules and policies set by their companies. This results in miscommunication of working standards, poor workplace discipline, low labour productivity and poor business performance (including delays, disruptions or closures during social unrests) Realising these challenges, Respect Vietnam has researched and developed The Know, a set of optimal solutions for lean thinking at work. It is clear that if we can simplify and prioritise the working rules and policies by adopting lean thinking, it can help enhance employee disciplines, team productivity and business performance as the whole, Ha said. At the workshop, enterprises recognised the importance of legal compliance and work discipline as the foundation of business efficiency and business opportunities (for enterprises entering international markets where international labour standards are required to be upheld). According to Yen Pham, an HR Manager at Intel Vietnam, IWR documents are often made up of dozens of pages, and the provincial Department approves the content of Labour. "Developing a lean document doesnt mean removing all the unnecessary words. Instead, it is vital to retain the key messages in a coherent framework that makes it easy for employees to read, memorise and check anytime they need, especially when they need clarity on regulations that, if violated, will be subject to fines," said Pham. The basic insight of lean thinking is to eliminate waste. Many companies waste much time and effort on IWR training activities. It usually takes 2-4 hours per employee to complete a training session. For a manufacturing company with 10,000 employees, the training time can take a huge amount of time. If being converted into productivity, the company may lose millions in products. In the meantime, disciplinary actions are not necessarily followed. Lean thinking will help reduce training time while increasing productivity. On the same note, Doan Hoang, head of the Compliance Department at Fashion Garments Co., said that the company was currently managing over 10,000 employees in eight factories. It is a challenging task to ensure the IWR training and application for all factories in a cost-effective and consistent manner. To this end, Fashion Garments Co has made efforts to adopt lean thinking by digitizing its workplace regulations. She said, To optimise our resources, we have decided to digitise our IWR document, which is friendly for our employees. As 95 per cent of our workers have their own smartphones, we have designed the document for both PCs and smartphones. We also incorporate the latest marketing/communication trends to attract employees' attention. At the training session, we show a guideline video to help them navigate and access the document online. By digitalising workplace regulations, the company has significantly reduced the training time and costs while increasing added value. Doan Xuan Truong, a lecturer at Hanoi Law University, suggested that businesses adopt the RCCC model (R stands for Risk, C for Conflict, C for Change and C for Crisis). "Take sexual harassment, for example the RCCC model can help the company to deal with this issue in the workplace. Specifically, the company can learn to improve their process to protect the employees as well as create a healthy and enabling working environment, as the Labor Law 2019 gives freedom for employers to design their own policies against Sexual Harassment. Besides solutions such as installing security cameras, and lighting dark areas and walls made of transparent classes to increase protection, it is important for employers to adopt RCCC management to avoid accumulated unsolved issues that might lead to crises that affect the companys reputation and even business activities," Doan said Ha Dang, an international expert in labour standards in Free Trade Agreements, discussed the 4P model that elaborates on what companies should do with Problem Identification, Procedure Improvement, People Engagement, and Policy Development to end sexual harassment and violence at work. The audience was impressed with the insights and suggestions that answered questions about how to develop living and actionable sexual harassment policies at work. Ha promised to deliver the digitalised Handbook of 28 new regulations under the 2019 Labour Code to attendees. Top 500 Vietnam Best Employers 2022 The Top 500 Vietnam Best Employers (VBE500) unveiled winning businesses and organisations on September 28 along with the release of the Vietnam Top Employers Report. Great Place to Work Vietnam shares insights on workplace culture Great Place to Work the global authority on workplace culture will honour 15 companies in the inaugural Vietnam's Best Workplaces event held at Sofitel Saigon Plaza on May 12. To establish what makes the best workplace, it has used the same standards as in the renowned Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For in the US and Fortune Worlds 25 Best Workplaces. In addition to major players such as Siemens, Adidas and Bosch, small- and medium-sized German enterprises have discovered Vietnam as a promising market for investment. Prof. Andreas Stoffers - Country director, Freidrich Naumann Foundation Vietnam More than four-fifths of German investment projects are in the industrial, software, and telecommunications sectors. As a growing middle-income country, Vietnam is hungry for energy. German technology leads the world in renewable energy, smart grids, and green buildings. The most important question, however, remains the financing of joint projects. Participating in tenders in Vietnam is not always easy. However, opportunities are opening up for the German economy, especially with international donor organisations and with the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). The good relations were intensified once again with the Hanoi Declaration, which was inked in 2011. In this agreement, both countries committed to strategic cooperation in political dialogue, trade, development, the rule of law, environmental protection, culture, and education. One consequence of the declaration is the German House in Ho Chi Minh City, completed in 2017. This building is a beacon project for Germanys culture and economy in Vietnam and beyond. Another milestone in the relationship is the Vietnamese German University, founded in 2008, which combines academic education with practical aspects. The university moved into its new, modern campus earlier this year. Germany is by far Vietnams most important European trading partner. The bilateral trade volume amounted to over $11.13 billion last year. However, there is much room for improvement, especially with the EVFTA, and Germany and Vietnam need to intensify their relations. Over many years, the top German export goods are automobiles and machinery, which account for 60 per cent of Germanys total export volume to Vietnam. Vietnam has also become Germanys largest trading partner in ASEAN, and the fourth-largest trading partner in Asia (after China, Japan, and South Korea) in 2020, according to the General Statistics Office. Germany ranks third in the EU with over 400 valid projects in the field of investment. In the future, Vietnam is expected to be an ideal investment hub for German businesses since the country holds many opportunities and development potential regarding the China+1 trend. Since China is struggling with its anti-pandemic strategy, the probability is high that Vietnam will be even more attractive to German investors as a safe haven. Evaluating German-Vietnamese economic relations. Photo: Le Toan However, some German companies are still hesitant to invest in Vietnam due to limitations in the auxiliary industry and the domestic supply chain. Vietnam needs to improve this situation and address the outstanding infrastructure challenges to take advantage of the trend to look for alternatives to China. Business today is not a one-way street with Europe as the driving force. Germany has become an important destination for Vietnamese investors. Vietnam currently has 41 investment projects in Germany worth more than $218 million in finance, banking, IT, restaurants, and hotels. Vietnam and Germany are expecting investment protection to provide a further boost to bilateral economic relations. In addition to the pandemic situation, which is still causing uncertainty in parts of the world, there is ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Globally, the increasing debt of many leading economies, growing state intervention, emerging criticism of globalisation and free markets, further shortages, and price increases for goods and services threaten all countries. In this environment, Vietnam has to find its way to remain an attractive destination for German businesses. But the conditions are good: Vietnam remains neutral regarding political positioning. In terms of economic policy, the country is building on the path it has taken before. The economic foundation remains solid and can serve as a suitable condition for weathering the storm. A firm commitment to free trade is of utmost importance. Furthermore, a healthy, manageable national budget (debt-to-GDP ratio of 43.7 per cent) and an investor-friendly economic climate are significant elements to retaining foreign investor interest. Vietnam shows the strengths of a liberal-oriented economic policy, in contrast to the interventionist policy that dominates worldwide. Nevertheless, these favourable conditions need to be worked on continuously. Vietnam has to accelerate economic restructuring in association with renovating the growth model based on innovation and improving its digital financial platform. Finally, it is also worth mentioning that there are other German actors in Vietnam beyond business. Among them are the Goethe Institute, the German Academic Exchange Service, the German Development Agency, and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation. All of them are represented in Vietnam by many projects. Around 170,000 Vietnamese live in Germany and are well integrated into German society. In Vietnam itself, there are around 100,000 Vietnamese who speak German. Overall, the building blocks for a closer working relationship are in place. Germans and Vietnamese should work on intensifying bilateral cooperation. Germany can see that since doi moi, Vietnams image has improved tremendously. Vietnam is indeed on the way to being an industrialised nation. It is an excellent place to invest and, I can say personally, a great place to live. Hanoi Heavy downpours and floods in the north central region claimed the lives of eight people in Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces as of 5:30pm on October 2. Flash flood in Nghe An's Ky Son district (Photo: VNA) According to the standing office of the National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control, in Thanh Hoa, Nghe An and Ha Tinh, 26 houses saw over 70% of their structure damaged, 143 had their roofs blown off, 55 were affected by landslides, and over 14,000 submerged. Over 2,000 families had to relocate. Flooding also damaged 11,435 ha of rice and other crops, more than 3,800 ha of industrial and fruit trees, nearly 135 ha of forest, over 9,000 ha of ponds and lakes, and more than 710 tonnes of salt. The disaster also killed 155,340 cattle and poultry heads; affected 127 schools; 9,150 metres of canals and 82 bridges and sewers and eroded 1,550 metres of river bank. According to the National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting, on October 3, heavy rains are expected across Vietnam. Downpours are forecast to reduce in the north central region on October 4, but continue in the south central, Central Highlands and southern regions in the following days. Localities are advised to continue keeping close watch on weather developments to take appropriate response measures. WHA Industrial Zone 1 in Nghe An ready to welcome tech giant Compal Taiwanese laptop maker Compal Electronics organised a field trip to WHA Industrial Zone 1 in Nghe An on June 22 to explore the possibility of expanding its manufacturing activities in Vietnam. While health authorities have not provided any details on the patient, a representative of the Ministry of Health said it would make an official announcement about the case later today. The monkeypox virus as seen under a microscope. VNA/VNS Photo Tang Chi Thuong, director of the municipal Department of Health, recommended strengthening surveillance, prevention and early detection of cases at border gates and medical facilities. The department will continue to educate the public about the disease, especially its early symptoms, so that those afflicted can immediately seek medical attention, he added. Thuong recommended relevant agencies prepare for diagnosis, isolation, and management of patients to contain the spread as soon as possible. Relevant units will need to proactively build their own plans for disease prevention and control. The department has sought enhanced scanning of body temperature at borders. People who are suspected of having the disease will be instructed to self-quarantine and monitor their health at home. If severe symptoms appear, people who suspect infection should visit the HCM City Hospital of Tropical Diseases. If tested positive for the virus, patients will be quarantined and treated at the hospital. The HCM City Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (HCDC) will also investigate people who have been in close contact with the patients and monitor them. The health ministry has recommended measures to prevent monkeypox, including covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and washing your hands often with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. People with an acute rash of unknown cause, accompanied by one or more suspected symptoms, should contact a medical facility for monitoring and counselling. People are advised to avoid close and skin-to-skin contact with people with monkeypox, to not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox and to not share utensils, bedding, towels or clothing with them. People travelling to countries with monkeypox outbreaks should avoid contact with mammals (dead or alive) such as rodents and marsupials as they may contain the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox can be spread from animals to humans and humans to humans, and in some cases cause skin infection, pneumonia, eye problems, and even death. The disease tends to be more severe in children, pregnant women or immunocompromised people. The incubation period is five to 21 days (usually six to 13 days). Monkeypox has symptoms similar to smallpox but differs in its systemic skin lesions and enlarged lymph nodes. The main symptoms are rash and one or more of the following symptoms: 38-degree or higher fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle pain, back pain, and asthenia. Dr Truong Huu Khanh, former head of the infectious and nervous diseases department at HCM City-based Childrens Hospital No 1, said on Facebook in Vietnamese that the public should not panic about the case. He recommended the public become aware about disease prevention instead. One way the disease is spreading is through male-male sexual activity, according to the doctor. The doctor has become popular on Facebook following his constant posts sharing his insights about COVID-19 pandemic prevention during much of the pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency over monkeypox outbreak as infections have risen globally, with more than 35,000 cases across 92 countries and territories, and 12 deaths, as of mid-August. HCM City tops nation in FDI attraction in first eight months Southern HCM City topped the country in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first eight months of 2022, accounting for 16.1 per cent of the national figure, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investments Foreign Investment Agency (FIA). A delegation of the European Commission (EC) will come to Vietnam on October 20-28 to examine remedies for the yellow card that was issued following alleged illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The European Commission will be looking for updates on the professionalism of Vietnams fishing sector. Photo: Duc Thanh Vietnams 28 coastal provinces and cities are undergoing major upgrades to overcome the ECs yellow card through Decision No.1077/QD-TTg on preventing and combating IUU by 2025, which was issued by the prime minister on September 14. The project aims to remove the yellow card, manage fishing activities, and protect seafood resources sustainably, responsible, and in the spirit of global integration. The country has been warned for not complying with the regulations since 2017, with all seafood exported to the EU being controlled thoroughly instead of just being occasionally checked. Vietnam is aiming to remove the yellow card as soon as possible with a series of institutional changes, including amendments to the Law on Fisheries 2017. The law concretised regulations on the management of fishery traceability to strictly control the supply chain. For instance, vessels must notify two hours in advance when the ship leaves or docks and must present complete papers and a declaration for functional checks. If all conditions are satisfied, they shall be stamped on the certification. Vietnam has also updated and integrated regulations of export markets into the legal framework for transparent, effective, and responsible management. In particular, the traceability of aquatic products is considered one of the important contents for tracing products to manage the fisheries in a modern way in line with worldwide standards. The situation is adding to Vietnams determination and resolve to form a sustainable and responsible fishery and aquaculture industry. Although the EC has made many recommendations for Vietnam to overcome the yellow card on IUU fishing, it mainly requires changes related to the management of fishing vessels at sea and docked ones for clear seafood traceability. These are also issues for which localities and businesses have recommendations to solve as soon as possible. According to Decision 1077 issued earlier in September, Vietnam will effectively and efficiently implement the provisions of the Law on Fisheries. Specifically, the decision sets the goals to mark all fishing vessels and ensure the installation of cruise monitoring equipment for vessels with a length of 15m or more engaged in fishing activities; ensure that all such vessels documents and equipment are checked and in accordance with regulations; and inspect all aquatic products from domestic fishing when loading and unloading these through fishing ports. Moreover, all aquatic products originating from foreign catches arriving at Vietnams seaports are inspected and supervised according to the Agreement on Port Country Measures of FAO-2009 and fishing vessels and fishers will be prevented from illegal fishing in foreign waters. The solutions for the implementation of Decision 1077 include domestic tasks which focus on communication programmes on the harmful effects of IUU fishing and seminars, professional training, and annual conferences directing the implementation of law enforcement and fishery management. They also include international tasks such as promoting communication programmes, preventing the distribution of negative and dishonest information, and cooperating with partners such as Australia, Norway, the US, and Europe to conduct training and information campaigns. Moreover, the decision names several other tasks, such as solutions to completing the legal framework; investments and upgrades into the fishery infrastructure and organisational apparatus; and improvements to the capacity and efficiency of patrol, inspection, and control units at sea and other relevant forces; among others. Le Hang, director of Communications at the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, found that the ECs yellow card had directly affected seafood exports to the EU and US markets, along with other potential markets. Hang estimates that the aquaculture industry could lose over $90 million in the time to come due to indirect impacts of the current situation. In the medium term, if the current status lasts for 2-3 years, it may cause disruption to Vietnams seafood exports, in which fishing output would shrink by at least 30 per cent. Vice versa, if Vietnam was to soon remedy issues related to the ECs yellow card, it could take advantage of the incentives in the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and rehabilitate the nations seafood industry, Hang said. The target of exporting $1.2-1.4 billion worth of seafood to the EU could then be feasible. In the total export turnover of seafood products of Vietnam annually with $1.9-2.2 billion, the EU and the US each account for about 16-17 per cent with a value of about $350-400 million per year. Phung Duc Tien - Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Vietnams legal framework for combating IUU fishing is currently relatively complete, clearly demonstrating its commitment to sustainable, responsible fishery development and international integration. The efforts of the localities over the past five years have made much progress as fleet management has gradually come into order and quotes for fishing permits in the high seas, as well as inshore and offshore areas, have been allocated, along with the well-deployed tracking and monitoring system to control ships at sea. Law enforcement forces at sea have stepped up patrols to prevent many fishing vessels from violating foreign waters. Of the four recommendations of the EC to Vietnam on combating IUU, our country is doing relatively well at the stage of building and completing the legal framework. Other stages such as ending the situation of fishing vessels illegally fishing in foreign waters, fleet management, and traceability of seafood still have many points to overcome but make progress as well. Localities are urgently directing organisations, facilities, teams, and individual fishermen to overcome the shortcomings as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the coast guard, border guard, fishery control, and local police forces have stepped up inspection and handling of violations at sea and fishing ports. At the same time, information has been distributed to fishermen so that they understand the risks and harms of IUU fishing. The European Union with its 27 member countries and a population of about 516 million people imports more than $160 billion of agricultural products per year, of which about 4 per cent come from Vietnam. On August 1, 2020, the EVFTA officially took effect with about 220 tax lines on aquatic products with base tax rates from 0-22 per cent. The remaining tax will be reduced in the following 3-7 years, contributing to the increasing competitiveness of Vietnams seafood. In 2022, Vietnams seafood export turnover is expected to reach $10 billion, of which the European market accounts for 12-13 per cent, equivalent to $1.2-1.3 billion. The main focus lies on the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Italy, and France. Vietnams seafood production has increased steadily over the years, from 4.9 million tonnes in 2009 to 8.7 million tonnes in 2021, of which aquaculture production accounts for 55 per cent. The most important aquaculture species in Vietnam are basa and shrimp, which often have a large export value, accounting for 55-60 per cent of the countrys total seafood production. It is forecast that the volume of seafood exported by 2025 will be equivalent to about six million tonnes. Of this, 4.7-4.8 million tonnes are produced domestically, with some raw materials imported from other countries. Kien Giang invests over 28 mln USD in fishing infrastructure The Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang invested more than 645 billion VND (28.2 million USD) in fishing infrastructure in 2020, according to its Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Danang closes largest fishing port of Central Vietnam From 3pm July 26, operations at Tho Quang Fishing Port, the largest fishing port in the central region, will be suspended for seven days to disinfect the area and carry out pandemic prevention measures. Government vows to stamp out unregulated fishing The Vietnamese government is doing its utmost to prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing practices, helped along by moves in Europe to remove warnings on the countrys activities. Inspecting the progress of the airport project on October 2, the top legislator lauded the provinces performance in building the Loc An-Binh Son resettlement areas, requesting the locality to ensure that the living conditions in the area is equal to or higher than that in the old one. The design of Long Thanh International Airport (Photo: VNA) He underlined that the Long Thanh project has seen a slow progress as it has so far spanned through three NA tenures. However, the NA Chairman noted that recently, under the direction of the Government and the direct management of Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh, the project has been sped up. As scheduled, in the first phase, one runway and one passenger terminal of Long Thanh International Airport will be put into operation by 2025, enabling the airport to welcome 25 million passengers and handle 1.2 million tonnes of cargo per year. This means there are only three years left to complete the plan, he noted, stressing the need to take drastic actions to ensure the progress of the project. He asked Dong Nai to report all difficulties and obstacles facing the implementation of the project to the NA Standing Committee to seek timely solutions. The top legislator assigned the NA General Secretary and Chairman of the NA Office to organise a working session to find solutions to the difficulties, highlighting that the NA always accompany the Government and localities during this important project. He requested the ACV to select contractors with full financial capacity and experience to construct the project, ensuring openness and transparency during the process. Earlier the same day, NA Chairman Hue, along with Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh, also inspected the Ben Luc-Long Thanh expressway project, which has been completed by 79.65%, slower than the schedule. The NA Standing Committee has approved a plan to allocate 30.22 trillion VND (1.26 billion USD) from the middle-term public investment plan to the Ministry of Construct to implement the project. He also visited the resettlement area at the Loc An and Binh Son communes, Long Thanh district for those who have to move to give space for the project. Investors to be selected for components of Long Thanh International Airport The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) is now selecting investors for maintenance workshops and ground-handling services, which is a part of subproject four of Long Thanh International Airport. Hanoi A regional information platform for energy transition SIPET, targeted at professionals, has been launched by the Clean, Affordable, and Secure Energy for Southeast Asia (CASE) to facilitate dialogue and promote coordination in the regions power sector to support the acceleration of the energy transition in the region. A wind power farm in the Mekong Delta province of Bac Lieu. (Photo: VNA) Energy demand is projected to grow by 80 percent by 2050. Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam represent nearly three-quarters of total power generation in Southeast Asia; therefore, the ability of the region to meet its development goals largely depends on the countries current and future energy choices. Yet, energy transition stakeholders in Southeast Asia have highlighted in a survey a series of common challenges: a lack of institutional capacity; a lack of platforms for timely information and intelligence sharing; excessive time spent in coordination; and duplication of work because stakeholders are not aware of others activities. SIPET will tackle these challenges with four key functions: a suite of Power Sector Resources, a Project Database and Mapping Tool, a Knowledge-Sharing Hub, and a Community Forum for energy transition professionals. SIPET is a one-stop platform that pulls together available information and research, facilitates evidence-based discussions, supports professionals to understand key data and trends, and greatly improves coordination and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, said Simon Rolland, Energy Project Director of GIZ. Through SIPET, we aim to facilitate the narrative in the power sector towards an evidence-based energy transition that robustly supports the regions development strategies, and towards joint actions that secure a clean, affordable and secure energy future for Southeast Asia. The CASE project, commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany (BMWK), aims to support Southeast Asian partner countries in the transition to a future energy system that provides reliable and affordable energy to the people while increasing political ambition to comply with the Paris Agreement. CASE contributes to shifting the narrative of the energy sector in Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam towards an evidence-based energy transition. Vietnam's smooth transition to net zero by 2050 Wartsila has revealed that renewable-based power systems, backed by grid balancing engines and energy storage, can enable Vietnam to reach net zero by mid-century whilst cutting the levelled cost of electricity (LCOE) by 20 per cent when taking into account future carbon taxes. In light of the companys fresh trajectory, next year HAGL would launch into the market with around 1,000 stores selling pork products from banana-eating pigs, of which franchised stores are accounting for 80 per cent. HAGL's Bapi brand aims to enhance customers' experience Since the economic downturn back in 2008, Vietnams real estate market weathered stormy times. In late 2012, HAGL chairman Doan Nguyen Duc took a breakthrough decision of pivoting from real estate to planting rubber. By 2012, the company posted revenue touching $159.4 million from real estate, construction, and mineral sale segments, making up 83 per cent of its total revenue. Thus, albeit these segments proved their core line, the company decided to pivot to a new area. By 2014, its revenue witnessed a change with agricultural products such as sugar, corn, and rubber, contributing $64 million or 48 per cent of total revenue. The companys captain Duc noted that HAGLs development has stepped into a new chapter. To underpin the change, in 2012, HAGL injected $100 million into growing sugarcane and expedited a string of rubber planting projects. In 2014, HAGL made its debut in the husbandry field, working on cow-raising strategies in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. In 2016, cow raising generated the company $150.6 million, representing 54 per cent of total revenue while sugarcane, corn, and rubber just contributed $31.2 million, accounting for only 11 per cent of total revenue. As the revenue from cow raising had shown signs of a slide, chairman Dao Nguyen Duc shifted into fruit trees holding high expectations with passion fruit, red dragon fruit, and banana planting. In 2017, following the shift into an agricultural firm growing fruit trees, HAGL once expected that passion fruits could bring exceptional growth and help the company to break into the Chinese market. In 2018, HAGLs revenue sum from fruits reached $126 million, making up 53.8 per cent of total revenue. By contrast, revenue from raising cows only contributed $5.5 million, equaling 2 per cent of total revenue. By 2020, HAGL counted $99.26 million in revenue from fruit sales, making up 71.9 per cent of total revenue but down 21.2 per cent compared to 2018s level. The revenue from cow raising was not mentioned. In the first six months of this year, the companys revenue structure once against saw a conversion in which pig sales contributed $19.7 million, representing 22.3 per cent of total revenue, and fruit sale sum further fell to $45 million, equal to 51 per cent of total revenue. HAGL shifted to raising pigs, and the companys captain Duc noted that HAGLs development has stepped into a new chapter. Duc also said that he lost sleep after finding the recipe for raising pigs with bananas which helps pigs to grow quickly. As of June 30, HAGL, however, just reportedly possessed $5.1 million in equity, equal to 0.61 per cent of its total asset value, meanwhile, its debt payment obligation stood high at $392 million, accounting for 46.8 per cent of the companys total capital sources. Along with that, HAGLs core business line has yet to generate profit. In the first half of this year, it incurred $5.9 million in losses, compared to the loss amount reaching $76.6 million in 2020 and $27.8 million in 2021. PAN Group preparing for stronger growth After years of preparations, the PAN Group is expecting a better performance in the months and years ahead. CHURDAN In the 1970s when George Naylor said he wanted to grow organic crops, the idea didnt go over well. Back then organic crops were an oddity, destined for health food stores or maybe a few farmers markets. I told my dad I wanted to be an organic farmer and he goes, Ha, ha, ha, Naylor said, noting it wasnt until 2014 that he could embrace his dream and begin transitioning from standard to organic crops. But over the decades, something unexpected happened demand for organics started increasing so fast that it began outstripping the supply produced in the U.S. Now a new challenge has emerged: Its not getting consumers to pay the higher prices, its convincing enough farmers to get past their organic reluctance and start taking advantage of the revenue pouring in. Instead of growing to meet the demand, the number of farmers converting to organic is actually dropping. Last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture committed up to $300 million to recruit and help more farmers make the switch. It feels good, said Chris Schreiner, executive director of the organic-certifying organization Oregon Tilth, referring to the government help. Its a milestone in the arc of this work. Schreiner, who has worked at the Oregon-based organization since 1998, said expanding technical training is important given the vast differences in farming land conventionally and organically. Schreiner noted that one farmer told him that converting a conventional farmer was like asking a foot doctor to become a heart surgeon. The key difference is the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides as well as genetically modified seeds. Most conventional farms rely on those practices but they are banned at organic farms. Instead, organic farmers must control weeds and pests with techniques such as rotating different crops and planting cover crops that squeeze out weeds and add nutrients to the soil. Crops can only be deemed organic if they are grown on land that hasnt been treated with synthetic substances for three years. During that period, farmers can grow crops, but they wont get the extra premium that accompanies organic crops. According to the USDA, the number of conventional farms newly transitioning to organic production dropped by about 70% from 2008 to 2019. Organic comprises about 6% of overall food sales, but only 1% of the countrys farmland is in organic production, with foreign producers making up the gap. In the U.S, There are so many barriers to farmers making that leap to organic, said Megan DeBates, vice president of government affairs for the Organic Trade Association. While farmers seem hesitant, U.S. consumers arent. Annual sales of organic products have roughly doubled in the past decade and now top $63 billion, according to the Organic Trade Association. Sales are projected to climb up to 5.5% this year. That growth is clear to anyone pushing a cart in an average supermarket, past bins of organic apples and bananas, through dairy and egg sections and along shelves brimming with organic beef and chicken. The new USDA effort would include $100 million toward helping farmers learn new techniques for growing organic crops; $75 million for farmers who meet new conservation practice standards; $25 million to expand crop insurance options and reduce costs; and $100 million to aid organic supply chains and develop markets for organics. Nick Andrews, an Oregon State University extension agent who works with organic farmers, called the USDA effort a game changer. It should be especially attractive to farmers with small parcels of land because the added value of organic crops makes it possible to make significant money off even 25 to 100 acre farms much smaller than the commercial operations that provide most of the countrys produce. Ive seen organic farmers keep families in business who otherwise would go out of business, Andrews said. Noah Wendt, who in the past few years transitioned 1,500 acres of land in central Iowa to organic, noted the shift has been rocky at times for him and his farming partner, Caleb Akin. But he and Akin recently bought a grain elevator east of Des Moines to use solely for organic crops, the kind of project the USDA program can assist. They hope the elevator will not only be a nearby spot to store grain but provide a one-stop shop to learn about growing and marketing organic crops. Seeing all the organic activity is gratifying for George and Patti Naylor, who farm near the tiny central Iowa community of Churdan. But they say they still value most the simple benefits of their choice, such as evenings spent watching hundreds of rare monarch butterflies that flock to their herbicide-free farm. As Patti Naylor put it, It really helps to believe in what youre doing. WATERLOO Dozens of Cedar Valley businesses and organizations have gained a better understanding of how to interact with people who have dementia. Thirty different entities have taken advantage of special training from Dementia Friendly Iowa since shortly before the onset of the pandemic, said Megan Zimmerman, who coordinates the program for the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging. A total of 43 have received the training in Iowa. UNI dementia simulation gives people greater understanding of experience living at home What makes this creation the first in Iowa, and possibly the entire country, is that the simulation resembles the experience of someone who has dementia and continues to lives at home. We teach them the signs someone has dementia and how to communicate with them most effectively, said Zimmerman. And we make recommendations on effective practices that cater as much to the organization or business as possible. It can be as simple as being patient and repeating messages. Or it could be something unique that makes a difference, Zimmerman said. An example is a financial institution flagging an account, making tellers aware the account holder has dementia and may unintentionally be withdrawing a large amount of money. These scenarios come up more often than people realize and come up in common places people visit like a bank or grocery store, said Zimmerman. Whats been really encouraging is seeing the businesses and organizations take action. At least half of a business employees must attend the one-hour session for it to receive the Dementia Friendly designation. Retraining is recommended if turnover is common. After completing the one-time training, the organization is recognized with a decal, certificate, and social media branding. We now understand the uphill battle they face every day, said Melanie Schwitters, associate doctor at Schofield Chiropractic Group in Cedar Falls. Her team has become more methodical in its approach. The staff learned to slowly approach clients, be in their visual field and avoid noise that could confuse them. Physically, some examples are being more mindful of how patients are positioned face down on the tables, and lighter in the force chiropractors use on their bodies by more regularly using their activator tools. It opened our eyes as to how we can be a more empathetic and understanding provider, she said. Anna Caughron, director of sales at Amy Wienands Real Estate, said the training helped her team see dementia through the lens of those dealing with the condition, bringing the staff as close as possible to realizing what its like to walk in their shoes. Waterloo library offering dementia caregiver kits The Waterloo Public Library is providing Alzheimer's and other dementia-related disease caregiver kits for check out. They heard from Kevin Dill, one of their customers, who has Lewy body dementia. She said the training helped staff become more empathetic and made dementia a little more real to them. Kaye Englin, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, said her organization became more aware and watchful as a result of the training. The lessons are most important when communicating with people living with dementia who are making financial decisions involving the charitable nonprofit or volunteering at one of their events. We also share what we learn with other nonprofits, and help to grow the overall network, she said. Other dementia-focused services offered in the community benefit those with the disease. A dementia caregiver kit can be borrowed from the Waterloo Public Library. Amy Rousselow, marketing and volunteer services manager, said books, DVDs, music, games and other tactile objects are provided for patients with various levels of dementia to spark meaningful conversation starters and memory sharing. Additionally, she said, they allow caregivers a break from the exhausting jobs of guiding and engaging people with dementia. The Hartman Reserve Nature Center in Cedar Falls offers a Friends Memory Cafe from 10 to 11 a.m. the first Wednesday of each month. Connie Svoboda, development coordinator, said it offers leisurely fun and friendship. Last month, attendees made cider using an apple press. She was surprised by how many had not used one, but said the lessons are not the largest benefit, its the fellowship gained by the participants. Its nice to have that friendship with those who are going through the same thing, she said. WATERLOO A Waterloo man who allegedly stabbed his mother in the face over the weekend is being held without bond pending a hearing. Authorities allege Arnel Dizdarevic, 29, attacked his mother with a knife on Saturday morning. He was awaiting trial for a 2021 incident in which he is accused of hitting her repeatedly. He is charged with willful injury causing serious injury, a felony, domestic assault with a weapon in the Saturday attack and violation of a no contact order. According to court records, police were called to their Shamrock Drive apartment July 5, 2021. When officers arrived, Dizdarevic told authorities he had beat the sh*t out of his mother, who was found with facial injuries. Police arrested him for misdemeanor domestic assault causing injury. He allegedly missed a court date in October 2021 and remained at large until September when police found him at a Stardust Drive apartment where his mother had been staying. He was sentenced to time served for violating the restraining order and released pending the assault trial. But he then allegedly missed a Sept. 29 court date, and another warrant was issued for his arrest, according to court records. Then two days later around 7 a.m. Saturday police and paramedics were called to a Camelot Drive apartment and found the mother with numerous stab wounds to the face. She was taken to UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital for treatment. Officers found blood and pieces of a broken knife in the apartment. Dizdarevic was found walking on Hess Road with blood on his hands and clothing, records state. He wasnt injured. WATERLOO An Edgewood woman has been arrested for allegedly breaking into storage lockers at a rural Waterloo business in September. Black Hawk County sheriffs deputies arrested Mia Marie Tice, 22, on Friday on three counts of third-degree burglary and one count of burglary to a vehicle. Deputies were called to a theft at Iowa Storage Solutions, 2700 Gilbertville Road, on Sept. 11. They reviewed surveillance video that allegedly showed Tice and another person enter the business grounds through a hole in the fence and then opening storage units. They also allegedly entered a 1986 Camero that was parked at the site, records state. WATERLOO The Northeast Iowa Food Banks mobile food pantry in Malcom will be held at the Community Center Auditorium at 212 Main St., starting Oct. 17. Distribution will be the third Monday of each month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The Northeast Iowa Food Banks mobile food pantry program can be found in 14 communities in northeast Iowa, reaching an average of 115 families per month at each site. Mobile food pantries provide supplemental food assistance to rural communities across the 16 counties the food bank serves for people who may not have consistent access to nutritional food. More than 1.4 million meals are distributed to families, individuals, children and seniors per year. DAVENPORT Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate will join Black Hawk County Auditor Grant Veeder and his staff at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday as the county conducts public tests on its election equipment ahead of the Nov. 8 primary. Every vote tabulator undergoes a logic accuracy test (basically a pre-election audit) in which the public is invited to attend and watch. Sample ballots are tested on the machine to ensure the tabulators are working correctly and recording votes properly. Both Pate and Veeder will be available to highlight the many steps Iowa takes to protect the integrity and security of elections. DALLAS (AP) A man accused of killing 22 elderly women in the Dallas area and stealing jewelry and valuables has been linked by DNA evidence to one of the deaths, a prosecutor said Monday. Billy Chemirmir, 49, is on trial for capital murder in the death of 87-year-old Mary Brooks. It's Chemirmirs third trial. His first trial, in the smothering death of 81-year-old Lu Thi Harris, ended in a mistrial last November when the jury deadlocked. He was retried and found guilty in April and sentenced to life without parole. If convicted in Brooks death, hell receive a second sentence of life without parole. Prosecutor Glen Fitzmartin said in opening statements that while presenting evidence in the deaths of Brooks and Harris, he would also show that DNA links Chemirmir to the death of 80-year-old Martha Williams. Chemirmir has maintained his innocence. His attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf Monday, but declined to make an opening statement. His arrest was set in motion in March 2018 when Mary Annis Bartel 91 at the time told police that a man had forced his way into her apartment at an independent living community for seniors, tried to smother her with a pillow and took her jewelry. Before Bartel died in 2020, she described the attack in a taped interview that was played to jurors Monday, as it was in the earlier trials. She said the minute she opened her door and saw a man wearing green rubber gloves, she knew she was in grave danger. He said: Dont fight me, lie on the bed, Bartel said. Police said when they found Chemirmir the next day in the parking lot of his apartment complex, he was holding jewelry and cash, and had just thrown away a large red jewelry box. Documents in the box led them to the home of Harris, who was found dead in her bedroom, lipstick smeared on her pillow. Following Chemirmirs arrest, police across the Dallas area reexamined the deaths of other older people that had been considered natural, even as their families discovered missing jewelry. He has been charged with 22 counts of capital murder in deaths spanning May 2016 to March 2018. Four of those indictments were added this summer. Evidence presented at previous trials showed Harris and Chemirmir were checking out at the same time at a Walmart just hours before she was found dead. According to evidence, Brooks had gone shopping at the same Walmart just weeks earlier. When Brooks was at the Walmart, Chemirmir was sitting in his car in the parking lot, watching people, Fitzmartin said. She leaves, he leaves. His phone, you will hear, follows from the Walmart to her house, Fitzmartin said. She arrives at her house and shes not heard from again, ever. The day after that trip to Walmart, Brooks grandson found her dead in her condo, groceries still in bags on the counter. Most of the people Chemirmir is accused of killing lived in apartments at independent living communities for older people. Hes also accused of killing women in private homes, including the widow of a man he had cared for in his job as an at-home caregiver. In a video interview with police, Chemirmir told a detective that he made money buying and selling jewelry and had also worked as a caregiver and a security guard. Fitzmartin said Monday that Williams and Bartel lived in the same community, and that Williams had been found dead in her apartment about two weeks before the attack on Bartel. As Williams family cleaned out her home, they discovered there was something not right, including missing items and a pillow with an odd stain, he said. DNA found on that pillow cant exclude Chemirmir, Fitzmartin said, and a search of Chemirmirs vehicle turned up gloves with DNA that was a match for Williams. Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot, a Democrat, sought life sentences rather than the death penalty when he tried Chemirmir on two of his 13 capital murder cases. In an interview with The Dallas Morning News, Creuzot said hes not against the death penalty, but among things he considers when deciding whether to pursue it are the time it takes before someone is executed, the costs of appeals and whether the person would still be a danger to society behind bars. Chemirmir, he added, is going to die in the penitentiary. Chemirmir's attorneys said in his previous trials that prosecutors didn't prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Prosecutors in neighboring Collin County havent said if they will try any of their nine capital murder cases against Chemirmir. CEDAR RAPIDS (AP) As artist Janson Rapisarda put the finishing touches on a mural on the side of Hall Bicycle Company, bicyclists pumped their pedals, speeding by his work on the trail that cuts through downtown Cedar Rapids. Rapisarda, known as CERA, has painted a two-story mural marking the 50th anniversary of RAGBRAI the Registers Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa next summer. It also commemorates the local bike shops 125th year in business in 2023. The project is one of several new additions this year to the public art collection in Cedar Rapids. The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that as the urban core shakes off COVID-19s toll on downtown life, the uptick in public art is sparking energy in the heart of the city helping to make Cedar Rapids a visual arts destination, celebrate the communitys identity and provide points of interest for visitors. A public art master plan adopted by the City Council this spring is guiding the efforts to prioritize public art as an element of place-making and a way to capture the characteristics that make Cedar Rapids unique. The plan considers the citys efforts to elevate public art as well as the private sectors role in expanding the presence of art in the community. The last five years, weve verbalized our commitment to investing in public art and now were starting to realize the fruits of those labors, said council member Ashley Vanorny, who sits on the councils Development Committee and is a vocal proponent of public art. It really takes people deciding that its going to be a priority for it to start becoming one. From murals to sculptures, the plan envisions improving cross-cultural understanding and connecting people through public art, no matter the medium. The plans key goals are: Continue to enhance and broaden public art throughout Cedar Rapids. Encourage local and regional artists to create public art. Cultivate partnerships to support public art. Create a sustainable administrative and funding structure. Implement a maintenance plan for the current collection and future additions. A document like this can really set us up for success with our public art, Community Service Coordinator Stephanie Schrader said. It sets the framework for what public art can aspire to be in Cedar Rapids, helps us identify opportunities and it lays out an ongoing maintenance plan to ensure sustainability of our public art in the future. Public art helps enhance the citys built environment, offering people fun, colorful things to look at while they venture around town, Schrader said. The city has attracted artists from around the region, nation and beyond to create some pieces, but the plan also looks to support local artists and develop resources to train emerging artists. Community Development Director Jennifer Pratt said the plan aims to push the boundaries of where the city thinks about adding public art, such as in parks, and stakes out public art as a city priority so private-sector partners can also step in. Public art isnt something the city can just do by itself, Schrader said. We want to work with the community, whether it be students, aspiring artists, people with an interest in art. Were all pedestrians in the community and were all out and about in the community. Jesse Thoeming, executive director of the Downtown District with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, said as hes traveled around the globe, the thing that sets apart a unique neighborhood or district is public art. The Downtown Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District has supported the new RAGBRAI mural and others around downtown, including Swiss duo NEVERCREWs ConnectCR mural, a project with local not-for-profit Murals & More. That piece, also on Second Avenue SE, captures several iconic images of Cedar Rapids within a multisided crystal. Its a nod to the community effort that fueled the $20 million ConnectCR project that will transform Cedar Lake and build a pedestrian and bike bridge spanning the Cedar River. He agreed the city cant do it all, nor can the Economic Alliance or Murals & More, but they can work in tandem toward the same goal of creating a more vibrant community by broadening public art. The role that (public art) plays is so hard to define, because you cant put an economic impact value number on a piece of public art that inspires Thoeming said. Voice of the people COVID-19 delayed the citys progress on public art by a couple of years, Vanorny said, but now Cedar Rapids is seeing a boom in new additions to the collection. At the end of the day, nothing is impossible for Cedar Rapids and what we could be, Vanorony said. We just have to imagine it and then put a hand in to expand the bandwidth so we can accomplish it. The newest addition is the one on the side of Hall Bicycle Company, 419 Second Ave. SE, a business thats locally owned and has remained a staple of downtown Cedar Rapids since its opening in 1898. The mural faces the downtown bike trail along Fourth Street. On View Gallery, owned by local artist Bex Hurn, worked on the project along with the Downtown SSMID. Rapisarda, who is based out of the Chicago area, said when he got into drawing the mural, he wanted to make sure it showed joy. He wanted the people in it to be around each other not necessarily racing, but enjoying each other by camping and celebrating with fireworks. A sunrise and moonrise show both night and day. I want people to see it and feel warm, Rapisarda said. I want people to see it and feel happy and just find joy in other people. Especially in the Midwest, Rapisarda said cities can be bleak, particularly in the winter, with large streets and open areas that can be desolate at times. Public art can be a positive thing and push people to take joy in the small things, he said. I think that we have this mentality of, OK, so I have to get to work, or I have to get to an appointment, Rapisarda said. So the point is to get from point A to point B, and were like, Its all about how fast we get there and how comfortable we are on the way there. But I think theres something really beautiful to be said about we get to make a place, we get to highlight the place that is there. Ryan Yanoe Sarfati and Eric Zoueh Skotnes, based in California, recently completed another mural downtown. They were selected to paint a mural on the Five Seasons Parking Ramp on First Avenue NE. For this public project, planned in partnership with the Advocates for Social Justice group, the two were selected out of 73 submissions from the citys call for artists to create a piece highlighting social and racial justice themes. The pair created Together We Bloom using photographs of hands of people they know and flowers that depict a species native to Iowa. Our hope is that any viewer who comes upon the mural can see themselves in the mural, Skotnes said. We have old hands, young hands, hands of all races, hands that look like a hard worker, hands that look more feminine. We tried to incorporate everything into this so that people could relate to it. As the two have implemented large-scale murals in cities around the U.S., Sarfati said the endeavor seems to create a boom in art among younger generations. After engaging with artists in Columbus, Ohio, following the completion of a mural there, he said several people went on to become large-scale muralists themselves. The narratives fueling a project change each time and based on the community, Sarfati said, but each new piece seems to have an artistic impact on each city. In Cedar Rapids, he said, it looked like an arts district is beginning to take shape. Public art is the voice of the people, Sarfati said. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form FILE - Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., on a screen in the background, questions witnesses about Zelle, during a Senate Banking Committee annual Wall Street oversight hearing, Sept. 22, 2022, on Capitol Hill in Washington. On the panel from left, Wells Fargo & Company CEO and President Charles Scharf, Bank of America Chairman and CEO Brian Thomas Moynihan, JPMorgan Chase & Company Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon, Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser, Truist Financial Corporation Chairman and CEO William Rogers Jr., U.S. Bancorp Chairman, President, and CEO Andy Cecere, and The PNC Financial Services Group Chairman, President, and CEO William Demchak. Getty Images Day 1: Duluth to Silver Bay (55 miles) Duluth is worth its own long weekend, but to get a flavor for the city in a half day, head to Canal Park, a peninsula between Lake Superior and the St. Louis River. There, old factory buildings have been repurposed as shops, restaurants and hotels, and a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, called the Lakewalk, delivers stunning views of Lake Superior and the iconic Duluth Harbor North Pierhead Light that marks the entry to the Duluth Ship Canal. From the boardwalk, you can listen to the waves crashing against the nearby jetty and feel the brisk air coming off the cold Superior water. For a better sense of whats under the waters surface, walk 15 minutes past the William A. Irvin Museum, a historic iron and ore freight ship you can tour, to the Great Lakes Aquarium, which is dedicated to freshwater ecosystems, like those in and around the Great Lakes. Its a perfect activity for multigenerational travel, serving as a fun, informative primer on the landscape youre about to traverse. Come lunchtime, grab a sandwich at Northern Waters Smokehaus, near the Lakewalk. The deli-style restaurant smokes its fish in-house, from Atlantic salmon to Lake Superior trout and whitefish, as well as other meats. And the price is reasonable for such exceptional food. When youre ready to leave town, youre only going 55 miles up the coastline on Highway 61, so take your time. About 40 miles on, at Gooseberry Falls State Park, wander along accessible paths to admire the cascades of the Gooseberry River flowing into Lake Superior. Another 6 miles farther up the road, dont miss the Split Rock Lighthouse, a dramatic brick structure perched atop a 130-foot cliff. The building, in service from 1910 to 1969, is one of the countrys most visited lighthouses. Paved paths and ramps lead up to the visitor center and into the caretakers house and fog signal building; from there, you climb 22 steps to reach the observation deck. The best view of the lighthouse, however, is from the parks campground near the lakeshore. The walk from the campground trailhead to the beach isnt suitable for wheelchairs because its a mix of gravel and dirt, but its an easy amble roughly a quarter of a mile to the beach and stunning lighthouse views. Where to stay: For a basic lodging option with wheelchair-accessible rooms, book the moderately priced AmericInn by Wyndham in Silver Bay, roughly 10 miles up the road from Split Rock Lighthouse. Nicholas Lindsay moves to Non-Executive Director Role Sydney, Oct 3, 2022 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Lake Resources NL ( ASX:LKE ) ( LK1:FRA ) ( LLKKF:OTCMKTS ) advises that Dr Nicholas Lindsay's role as Technical Director concluded on 30 September 2022 following a period of 21 months overseeing the Company's DFS for the Kachi Project and other related work streams. The Company would like to thank Dr Lindsay for his commitment and efforts over that period working with our technical team across all facets of the definitive feasibility study. Dr Lindsay will remain on the Lake Board as a Non-Executive Director. About Lake Resources NL Lake Resources NL (ASX:LKE) (OTCMKTS:LLKKF) is a clean lithium developer utilising clean, direct extraction technology for the development of sustainable, high purity lithium from its flagship Kachi Project, as well as three other lithium brine projects in Argentina. The projects are in a prime location within the Lithium Triangle, where 40% of the world's lithium is produced at the lowest cost. This method will enable Lake Resources to be an efficient, responsibly-sourced, environmentally friendly and cost competitive supplier of high-purity lithium, which is readily scalable, and in demand from Tier 1 electric vehicle makers and battery makers. loading......... Malibu, CA, Oct 3, 2022 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Ellis Martin had the pleasure of visiting with the Honorable Ranj Pillai, Minister of Economic Development for the Yukon Territory while they both were attending the Precious Metals Summit at Beaver Creek, Colorado. The Yukon Government along with the Yukon Mining Alliance under the direction of Minister Pillai has been very proactive with regard to reaching out beyond the borders of the territory and Canada in illustrating opportunities in mining in the jurisdiction, more so in the editor's opinion than any other Canadian province or territory. Several producing mines have gone into production during the last few years alone, with many of the majors looking into further acquisitions there. In this special segment of The Ellis Martin Report, we learn the motivation and the methodology behind the Minister's success in collectively fortifying a positive business environment for the Yukon before, during and beyond the pandemic, with a clear path forward. To listen to the Interview, please visit: https://www.abnnewswire.net/press/en/114172/yukon About The Ellis Martin Report The Ellis Martin Report (TEMR) is an internet based radio program showcasing potentially undervalued companies to an audience of potential retail investors and fund managers that comprise our listening audience. TEMR is broadcasted on the VoiceAmerica Business Channel and The Opportunity Radio Network. CEO and company interviews are paid for by those represented on the program. PYX Secures GBP20 Million Investment Commitment Sydney, Oct 4, 2022 AEST (ABN Newswire) - PYX Resources Ltd ( LON:PYX ) ( NSX:PYX ) continues to receive strong investor support announcing a GBP20 million investment commitment from GGY Global Yield LLC SCS ("GGY"), a US$3.4 billion alternative investment firm with offices in Paris, New York, and the Bahamas. The proceeds from this capital investment will further the Company's effort to upgrade its mining operations and increase its production volumes, well-positioning PYX to continue its growth. Commenting on the financing, PYX Resources' Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Oliver B. Hasler, said: "The investment commitment is a major milestone in our financing strategy and will enable us to accelerate our previously announced growth plans. We look forward to implementing our vision to become the leading zircon producer globally". Founded in 1995, GGY oversees a wide range of developing market investment vehicles and has executed over 530 transactions in over 70 countries. GGY and its partners have access to Small-Mid Cap Management Buyouts, Private Investments in Public Equities, and select venture investments through the family of funds and investment vehicles. In this tailored agreement, PYX will control the amount and timing of investment under this GBP20 million commitment over a 36-month period, with no minimum subscription obligation. Subscription Agreement Key Terms On any dates chosen at the discretion of the Company (Notice Date), the Company may issue a Subscription Notice specifying the aggregate number of shares that the Company wishes GGY to subscribe for (Subscription Amount), provided that the aggregate number of shares shall: - not exceed 700% of the average daily trading volume in the Company's shares during the 15 trading days immediately preceding the Subscription Notice; and - when multiplied by 90% of the closing bid price on the trading day prior to the relevant Notice Date, and added to the aggregate subscription price of all the shares subscribed by GGY, that aggregate subscription price amount does not exceed GBP20 million. The subscription price payable by GGY to the Company (Subscription Price) will be set over the period of 15 trading days following the Notice Date (Pricing Period), based on 90% of the average of the share closing prices over the Pricing Period (but ignoring trading days (Knockout Days) where the price is less than a floor price specified by the Company, trading on the London Stock Exchange is suspended or an material adverse has occurred). Provided the final Subscription Price is more than the floor price, GGY will be obliged to subscribe for a number of ordinary shares which is more than 50% of the Subscription Amount and is entitled to subscribe for up to 200% of Subscription Amount. GGY will then wire to the Company an amount equal to the Subscription Price multiplied by the Subscription Amount. Upon receipt of funds from GGY, the Company will then issue the relevant new ordinary shares. The Subscription Agreement is subject to customary warranties, representations, and undertakings given by the Company, including in relation to the Company having sufficient shareholder authority in place to issue shares to GGY on the relevant dates. In addition, GGY undertakes not to own at any time a number of shares with voting rights exceeding 19.90% of the Company's issued share capital. In consideration for entering into the Subscription Agreement, the Company will pay GGY a fee of GBP400,000 within a period of 12 months from the date of execution of the agreement. Warrants Upon execution of the Subscription Agreement, the Company will also issue Warrants for GGY to subscribe for up to 3,000,000 ordinary shares at any time during a period of three years from the date of issue at an exercise price equal to GBP100, subject to customary adjustment mechanisms. If the Company is unable to issue the Warrants, the Company is obliged to indemnify GGY and pay the equivalent value of the Black Scholes value of any unissued Warrants. About Pyx Resources Limited PYX Resources Limited (NSX:PYX) (LON:PYX) is a global producer of premium zircon listed on the National Stock Exchange of Australia and the London Stock Exchange. The Company's flagship asset is the Mandiri mineral sands deposit, located in the alluvium sediment rich region of Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Boasting the world's 5th largest producing deposit of zircon, PYX is a large-scale, near-surface open pit operation in production since 2015 and with exploration to date validating the presence of additional Valuable Heavy Minerals such as rutile, ilmenite among others within its mineral sands. An American Airlines flight from Texas to New Mexico was evacuated Sunday after landing at the Albuquerque airport because of a security threat, authorities said. All 179 people aboard Flight 928 from Dallas-Fort Worth were taken off the jet in the morning at Albuquerque International Sunport and were bused to the terminal, airport officials said. No injuries were reported. FBI officials in Albuquerque did not disclose the nature of the security threat but said that the matter was being investigated and that no other information was available. American Airlines passengers flying out of the airport were expected to see flight delays while the episode is investigated, airport officials said. SOFIA, Bulgaria An exit poll in Bulgaria suggested Sunday that the center-right GERB party of ex-premier Boyko Borissov, a party blamed for presiding over years of corruption, will be the likely winner of Bulgarias parliamentary election. The poll conducted by Gallup International showed the GERB party earning 24.6% support, apparently edging out the reformist We Continue the Change pro-Western party of former Prime Minister Kiril Petkov, which is expected to capture 18.9%. Still, the predicted percentage wont be enough for Borissovs party to form a one-party government, and the chances for a GERB-led coalition are slim. The exit poll also predicted that eight parties could pass the 4% threshold to enter a fragmented parliament with populist and pro-Russia groups showing increased gains. The European Union nations fourth election in 18 months was marked by a raging war nearby, political instability and economic hardships in the blocs poorest member. A low turnout reflected voter apathy. Petkov conceded defeat late Sunday. We lost the election, albeit by a small margin, and now GERB has the responsibility to form a coalition and govern the country, he said. It could take days before the final official results are announced. If they confirm the exit poll, Borisov will be handed a mandate to form his fourth cabinet. It will be an uphill task for him to produce a stable governing coalition, however, since most political groups have in advance rejected any cooperation with his GERB party, which presided over years of corruption that hampered development. The early election came after a fragile coalition led by Petkov lost a no-confidence vote in June. He claimed afterward that Moscow had used hybrid war tactics to bring down his government after it refused to pay gas bills in rubles and ordered an expulsion of Russian diplomats from Bulgaria. The deputy chief of the European Council on Foreign Relations, Vessela Cherneva, said the predicted result could produce two types of coalitions: an anti-corruption coalition, in which GERB under Borissov would find no place, or a geopolitical coalition of the centrist parties, which would be possible only if Borissov resigns from leading his party. The scenario under which there is no coalition possible would undermine parliamentary democracy in Bulgaria and will further tilt the balance towards the pro-Russian President (Rumen) Radev, Cherneva said. After casting his vote Sunday, Borissov told reporters that Bulgaria needs to clearly position itself on Russias war in Ukraine. With this aggression, with this war with a clear aggressor in the face of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin (I have) nothing against the Russian people with this farce with the referendums, Bulgaria must be very clear, categorical, and precise about its place in the European Union and NATO, he said. He said getting Bulgaria into Europes 19-nation shared currency eurozone should be the next governments most important task. Petkov ran on promises to continue efforts to eradicate corruption, but a European energy crisis sparked by Russias war on Ukraine was the dominant economic theme for voters. Many Bulgarians share pro-Russia sentiments, which provides fertile soil for aggressive Kremlin propaganda in the Balkan country. The pro-Russia party Vazrazhdane, riding on those feelings, captured 10.2% of the vote, up from 4.9% in the previous election, the exit poll predicted. Unlike the stance taken by the EU, which has fully condemned Russias war in Ukraine and slapped sanctions on Russia for it, Vazrazhdane leader Kostadin Kostadinov has urged full neutrality for Bulgaria in the war. OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso Burkina Fasos ousted coup leader Lt. Col. Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba left the country for Togo Sunday two days after he himself was overthrown in a coup, while the new junta urged citizens not to loot or vandalize. Damibas departure was confirmed by two diplomats who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. It was not known whether Togo was his final destination. Earlier Sunday, religious leaders who had mediated between the factions said that Damiba had offered his resignation as long as his security and other conditions were met. A junta representative later announced on state television that their leader, Capt. Ibrahim Traore, officially has been named head of state following the Friday coup that ousted Damiba. Their power grab marked Burkina Fasos second military coup this year, deepening fears that the political chaos could divert attention from an Islamic insurgency whose violence has killed thousands and forced 2 million to flee their homes. It followed unrest in Ouagadougou, the capital, in which mobs on Saturday attacked the French embassy and other French-related sites, wrongly believing that they were sheltering Damiba. Along with agreeing not to harm or prosecute him, Damiba also asked Traore and the new junta leadership to respect the commitments already made to the West African regional bloc ECOWAS. Damiba, who came to power in a coup last January, had recently reached an agreement to hold an election by 2024. In a statement late Sunday, ECOWAS said it would be sending a team of mediators to Ouagadougou on Monday including former Niger President Mahamadou Issoufou. The ECOWAS statement, signed by Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, noted that Damiba had resigned in order to avoid a violent confrontation and possible bloodshed. Earlier in the day, the new junta leadership had called for an end to the unrest that engulfed Ouagadouou in wake of Friday nights coup. In a statement broadcast on state television, junta representative Capt. Kiswendsida Farouk Azaria Sorgho called on people to desist from any act of violence and vandalism especially those against the French Embassy or the French military base. Anti-French sentiment rose sharply after the new junta alleged that interim president Damiba was sheltering at a French military base following his ouster. France vehemently denied the allegation, but soon protesters with torches thronged the perimeter of the French Embassy in Ouagadougou. Saturdays violence was condemned by the French Foreign Ministry, which denied any involvement in the rapidly developing events. French Institutes in Ouagadougou and the countrys second-largest city, Bobo-Dioulasso, had also been targeted and French citizens were urged to be very cautious. The situation is very volatile in Burkina Faso, a French spokeswoman told The Associated Press on Sunday. Damiba came to power in January promising to secure the country from jihadi violence. However, the situation only deteriorated as jihadis imposed blockades on towns and have intensified attacks. Last week, at least 11 soldiers were killed and 50 civilians went missing after a supply convoy was attacked by gunmen in Gaskinde commune in the Sahel. The group of officers led by Traore said Friday that Damiba had failed and was being removed. To some in Burkina Fasos military, Damiba also was seen as too cozy with former colonizer France, which maintains a military presence in Africas Sahel region to help countries fight Islamic extremists. Some who support the new coup leader, Traore, have called on Burkina Fasos government to seek Russian support instead. Outside the state broadcaster on Sunday, supporters of Traore were seen cheering and waving Russian flags. In neighboring Mali, the coup leader has invited Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group to help with security, a move than has drawn global condemnation and accusations of human rights abuses. Conflict analysts say Damiba was probably too optimistic about what he could achieve in the short term but that a change at the top didnt mean that the countrys security situation would improve. The problems are too profound and the crisis is deeply rooted, said Heni Nsaibia, a senior researcher at the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, adding that militant groups will most likely continue to exploit the countrys political disarray. ___ Mednick reported from Barcelona. Associated Press writers Jeffrey Schaeffer in Paris and Krista Larson in Dakar, Senegal contributed. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal Under some precarious cloud cover, thousands of visitors lined up early for day two of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Sunday. Though the wind delayed the fun for a bit, the sky eventually filled with hundreds of colorful creations. For Himanshu Jasuja and his 4-year-old son, Hansh, this years Balloon Fiesta was a first. The duo spent the morning basking in the atmosphere. We just moved here from Minnesota for a job and this is wonderful, Jasuja said. We are pretty excited and thankful that it is starting now because we were worried that the rain or the clouds might not have the balloons go up, but this is really fun. Hansh was so excited, he was ready at 4 a.m. He woke up early, because last night we promised him that we will be going to see the balloons in the morning, Jasuja said. So at 4:30 a.m., he woke up himself and I just told him its time to go, get up, and he was really excited. A lifestyle of ballooning While some introduced balloons to their families, for some clans, ballooning is a part of life. My family has been ballooning since before I was born, so I have just been around it my whole life, said Matt Riley, a pilot from Kansas City, Missouri. I started flying in the 1990s, when the US Nationals came to Columbia, Missouri, which is where I am from. Columbia is 92 miles south of Brookfield, where the annual Great Pershing Balloon Derby is held. So my parents and my uncle are originally from Brookfield, Missouri, and theres an annual race up there thats been happening for over 40 years, Riley said. so ever since that, it runs in our family. Now, Matt pilots the Spirit of Kansas City alongside his wife, Jen, and two daughters, Brooklyn and Emma. My wife had never been around a balloon before we had met but shes into it now, along with (our) two daughters, Riley said. Now, we all go to races and have a good time. Just like the Riley family, Sky Star pilot Jos Seghers and his son Stan also relish the event. Every year, we look forward to coming back in October, Stan Seghers said. So its about the friends and flying here and taking people with us to fly and have fun. The Seghers are from Belgium and are one of five European balloon teams. The other four came from Britain. We attend festivals in Belgium and Italy as well, but my father has been coming here for 22 years, Stan Seghers said. Festival attendant Art Mesa came from out of state for the fun. I came from Utah to help some friends of mine come down from Napa and have been coming for 30 years, Mesa said. It is just about having a good time and enjoying the city and lifestyle as I used to live here. Mesa has seen the Balloon Fiesta evolve into the dominant figure it is today. The first time I went, we were in fields. And the thing I remember most is everybody watching for glass, Mesa said. Outside of the balloons, Mesa recommends that visitors check out the food. Oh yeah, the carne adovada is the best one for me and if they have it here, great, and if not, I am going to a restaurant, Mesa said. The chicharron burrito that they sell is my favorite food. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE State Attorney General Hector Balderas is calling on legislators to strengthen New Mexicos anti-corruption law following a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the dismissal of criminal charges against four defendants. Balderas, a Democrat whose term ends this year, said the court took away from citizens a very necessary tool to prosecute public officials who use their public office for their own personal gain. The case dealt with the dismissal of ethics charges against a series of former public officials, including a former Dona Ana County treasurer, an ex-district attorney and former Taxation and Revenue Secretary Demesia Padilla. The decision doesnt affect Padillas embezzlement conviction last year. The Supreme Courts unanimous opinion centered on the enforcement of three provisions in the Governmental Conduct Act subsections that direct officials to treat their positions as a public trust, conduct themselves in a way that justifies the confidence placed in them by the people and disclose conflicts of interest. In a 24-page opinion authored by Chief Justice Shannon Bacon, the court ruled the sections were never intended by legislators to be enforced as criminal statutes. Instead, the court said, they are aspirational goals that provide general guidance. The language doesnt spell out what act or omission is required for its violation and does not establish criminal elements that could inform clear jury instructions, the court said. The decision didnt address civil enforcement. The criminal ethics charges against the defendants had been dismissed at the District Court level, but the Court of Appeals later reinstated some of the charges. The Supreme Court last week reversed the Court of Appeals determination that the three sections at issue could result in criminal liability. The justices affirmed the lower courts dismissal of charges. Four ex-public officials were named in the litigation: Former Dona Ana County Treasurer David Gutierrez, who was accused of pursuing an unwanted sexual relationship with one of his employees. Former 6th Judicial District Attorney Francesca Estevez, who was accused of using her position to intimidate or manipulate police officers investigating whether she had improperly used a state-owned vehicle for personal use. A former San Juan County magistrate judge, Connie Lee Johnston, accused of illegally recording the communications of her co-workers and colleagues in secure areas of a court building. Padilla, who had been accused of using her position as secretary of taxation and revenue to access tax records of her old accounting firm and records of former clients. The Legislature is set to open a 60-day session in January, when lawmakers may take up legislation revising ethics laws and other statutes. Jeremy Farris, executive director of the State Ethics Commission, said the Supreme Court decision should have only a minor impact, if any, on his agencys ability to enforce anti-corruption laws. The commission focuses on civil and administrative remedies, he said, not criminal charges. But he agreed the Legislature should tighten the state laws on ethics and disclosure. The Governmental Conduct Acts civil penalty provisions $250 per violation are sorely outdated, Farris said, and the Financial Disclosure Act is simply too undemanding to inform the public about conflicts of interest. Balderas, for his part, urged the Legislature to work with the ethics agency to strengthen these laws in order to build public trust with our community which has grown skeptical and tired of corruption. The Capitol has been rocked by corruption allegations in recent years. Ex-House Majority Leader Sheryl Williams Stapleton, D-Albuquerque, resigned last year amid a criminal investigation. She denies the charges. In 2018, former state Sen. Phil Griego, a San Miguel County Democrat, went to prison after he was convicted on bribery and other charges. A Cannon Air Force Base airman was found dead in his off-base Clovis home Tuesday. Cannon Air Force Bases public affairs department is reporting the death of Airman First Class Nathan M. Johnson. According to a news release from Cannon Public Affairs, Johnson was an aerospace propulsion journeyman in the 27th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron MC-130. Nathan Johnson was a charismatic and enthusiastic Airman that cared for and motivated everyone around him, said U.S. Air Force Maj. Ian Hudson, 27 SOAMXS commander. Hudson said Johnson had a boisterous personality that allowed him to ignite any room with camaraderie and fellowship among all ranks. 27th Special Operations Wing commander Col. Terence Taylor said, Team Cannon is deeply saddened by the loss of A1C Nathan Johnson. Our thoughts and prayers are with Nathans family, friends and co-workers during this difficult time. Details surrounding Johnsons death are under investigation. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal Faculty in the University of New Mexico College of Education and Human Sciences overwhelmingly voted recently that they have no confidence in the dean leading the school. The tally marked the first time in 15 years a dean at the states flagship university received a vote of no confidence. Theres no specific action required because of the facultys vote, but Provost James Holloway, who is responsible for appointing and managing deans, said he will take their position under consideration. On Sept. 21, a survey was distributed to 85 faculty members in the college, and they were given five days to complete it. Of the 80 surveys that were returned, 64 people voted they had no confidence in Dean Hansel Burley, who took over leadership at the college on July 1, 2020. Julia Scherba de Valenzuela, an associate professor of special education in the college, said some of the issues faculty had were related to communication, personnel matters and the shuttering of ongoing research projects in local schools. She also said professors have had to take on additional tasks. Faculty were also critical of how Burley represented the colleges programs in public and his budget priorities. I think it has been a build up of lack of communication, and decision making that is not collaborative or transparent, and ill-informed at times, she said. We faculty are being asked to take on roles for which we dont have the skill set. In a statement to the Journal, Burley said he was taken aback by the vote. I am both saddened and surprised by this action. However, I have listened carefully to the concerns of the faculty, he said. It is my hope that we can work together, with the assistance from the Office of the Provost, to reestablish a mutual trust and develop a plan to improve lines of communication. I remain committed to the College of Education and Human Sciences mission, and to advancing the success of our students, faculty and staff. Burley, who previously worked at Texas Tech University, was one of three new deans who arrived at UNM in the summer of 2020. He was one of four semi-finalists who visited the college before he was hired with a $216,000 salary. Holloway said in a statement that he appreciated the facultys feedback. I know from many conversations with Professor Burley that he is dedicated to the mission (of education college), he said. Before I take any action, it will take me a little time to fully consider this vote and to gather documentation of any issues that were raised at the meeting, but I can assure our students in the meantime that becoming a teacher in a New Mexico school is one of the most impactful ways you can give back to your family and community. I can also confidently say that the dean and our faculty are fully committed to their successful academic and practical experiences, and that this vote will have no immediate impact on the work of our students. ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER SPEED CAM BITES THE DUST: Back in July, days after it had been installed, someone stole the automated speed enforcement camera off its pole on Lead, and the city quickly removed the camera on Coal until it could figure out a better way to install the devices. Now the Montgomery camera is gone. CC emails it looks as if the speed camera on (westbound) Montgomery Boulevard just west of Eubank no longer is in place. If so, can you let us know if this was removed by miscreants or by the city itself perhaps to be relocated elsewhere? Removed by the city, because miscreants vandalized it. Rebecca Atkins of the Albuquerque Police Department says the Montgomery camera was vandalized and sustained minor damage. The device is currently being repaired. The administration is committed to the ASE program, and measures are being taken to provide additional security to them. She has said previously that the camera vendor, NovoaGlobal, picks up the tab for any damages or vandalism to the devices. Meanwhile, APD is investigating the vandalism. As the city is working on additional security for the device to include a camera monitoring it (a camera watching the camera), I do not have a definitive timeline when it will be back up. NINE CAMERAS STILL CLICKING: While the Montgomery camera is repaired, Atkins says, the Lead (westbound, at Mesa) and Coal (eastbound, at Cornell) cameras are back, rejoining ones on east- and westbound Gibson between Carlisle and San Mateo, on northbound Unser at Tower, and new ones on southbound San Mateo, northbound Unser at Western Trail, westbound Lomas at Virginia and westbound Central between Tingley and New York. The camera system stopped issuing warnings Sept. 7 and now only issues the $100 civil citations (four hours of community service is an option). There were 2,629 tickets in June, 2,274 in July, 5,821 in August, and 2,952 in the first two weeks of September. Tickets are usually issued at 10 mph or more over the posted limit (5 mph or more in school and work zones). BALLOONISTS CLOG MY NEIGHBORHOOD: Denise Gutierrez emails city workers have been feverishly working for months to get Vista Del Norte Park, a secondary balloon landing site at 1005 Osuna NE, ready for the massive event that kicked off Saturday. That means traffic signs are up on Osuna, Edith and Alameda. Guess where there are no traffic signs or an obvious traffic plan? Yup, you guessed it in the adjoining Vista Del Norte Neighborhood. I am a 22-year resident of VDN, and here is the problem: There is only one way in and one way out of this neighborhood. Unless you know where you are going, the streets are a big maze. Just imagine thousands of cars, pedestrians, bicycles and chase crews speeding around lost in your neighborhood, your driveway is blocked by vehicles parked illegally, and no one is looking at the road. Each year I send emails to the mayor, City Councilor Brook Bassan and the police chief and nothing changes. Scott Cilke with the citys Department of Municipal Development says if ever a car is illegally blocking your driveway, we encourage you to dial 311 and have parking services dispatched to your location. Otherwise, we will use the (2022) Balloon Fiesta to evaluate the need for additional signage in this area. Editorial page editor DVal Westphal tackles commuter issues for the metro area on Mondays. Reach her at 823-3858; dwestphal@abqjournal.com; or 7777 Jefferson NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87109. RIO DE JANEIRO Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, two diametrically opposed candidates for Brazils presidency, have started a four-week race to pursue votes ahead of a winner-take-all runoff. After garnering more than 90% of the vote in Sundays first round, leaving their competitors far behind, incumbent President Bolsonaro and ex-President da Silva are already eyeing options that can push them over the top, whether political alliances or endorsements from candidates now eliminated. Political analysts say Bolsonaro will seek to capitalize on an unexpectedly strong showing by the right wing as a whole to shore up support from politicians seeking advantageous alliances while da Silva who won the first-round vote reaches out to moderates. The election will determine whether a leftist returns to the helm of the worlds fourth-largest democracy or whether Bolsonaro can advance his far-right agenda for another term. Many polls had indicated leftist da Silva had a significant lead, with some suggesting he could even clinch a first-round victory. Most showed margins that neared or exceeded double digits. But Bolsonaro came within just five points of da Silva, forcing an Oct. 30 runoff. While da Silvas tally of 48.4% of the vote was within most polls margins of error, Bolsonaros 43.2% far exceeded most of them. The presidents allies running for Congress and governorships also outperformed polls. The far-right has shown great resilience in the presidential and in the state races, said Carlos Melo, a political science professor at Insper University in Sao Paulo. Speaking after the results, da Silva said he was excited to have a few more weeks of campaigning and the opportunity to go face-to-face with Bolsonaro and make comparisons between the Brazil he built with the Brazil we built during our administrations. I always thought that we were going to win these elections. And I tell you that we are going to win this election. This, for us, is just an extension, da Silva said. Meanwhile, Bolsonaro seemed to appeal to poorer voters, who make up a significant chunk of da Silvas base. He highlighted high inflation that has boosted the cost of food and has hurt the approval ratings of leaders worldwide. I understand there is a desire from the population for change, but some changes can be for the worse he said. Bolsonaro added that he wanted to keep Brazil from adopting leftist economic policies that would put it on a troubled economic path similar to those of Argentina and Venezuela. It still isnt clear why polls missed the mark on support for Bolsonaro and right-wing candidates. Some analysts suggest voters had been embarrassed to tell pollsters they backed Bolsonaro and instead listed another candidate, said Arilton Freres, director of Curitiba-based Instituto Opiniao. But that in itself doesnt explain everything, he added, saying outdated census data also may have had an impact on the design of the polls. Bolsonaro and allies have repeatedly cast doubt on the polls, and pointed instead great turnouts at his street rallies. Many people were carried away by the lies propagated by the research institutes, Bolsonaro wrote Monday on his Twitter profile. The rights positive night extended to races for congressional seats and governorships, especially candidates with Bolsonaros blessing. Bolsonaro said his partys showing could bring fresh endorsements ahead of the runoff as other parties strike alliances in exchange for support. Bolsonaros Liberal Party will surpass da Silvas Workers Party to become the biggest in the Senate and the Lower House, with a total of 112 seats, or 23 more than its main rival though still are short of what is needed to pass legislation by itself. The rights stronger-than-expected showing in Brazils populous southeast especially could benefit Bolsonaro, analysts say. His former infrastructure minister topped the race to govern Sao Paulo and will go to a runoff. The governor of Rio de Janeiro, an ally, won reelection outright, and the governor of the second most populous state, Minas Gerais, indicated he will endorse Bolsonaro in a video message Monday afternoon. Meanwhile, da Silvas campaign is likely to focus on winning over the centrist vote, especially in Brazils most populous state, Sao Paulo, where da Silvas politically moderate running mate, Geraldo Alckmin, is a former governor, independent political analyst Thomas Traumann said. Bolsonaro has expressed no interest in bringing defeated presidential candidates to his side, while da Silva has said he already reached out to competitors, who garnered about 8% of the vote combined. Analysts say there was a last-minute migration of votes from some of those candidates to Bolsonaro. Simone Tebet and Ciro Gomes, the third- and fourth-place finishers, together earned 8.5 million votes. The difference between Bolsonaro and da Silva in the first round amounted to 6.1 million votes, and more than 30 million people abstained. Before the election, Tebet hinted she might urge her backers to vote for da Silva and in televised debates, she vehemently criticized Bolsonaros four years in office. After results came out on Sunday, she gave her coalition of political parties 48 hours to clarify who it will back, saying after that deadline she will make her own position public. Center-left Gomes was a minister in da Silvas government before breaking with him, and in 2018 became openly hostile. That would make a possible endorsement more awkward, despite their ideological common ground, said Marco Antonio Teixeira, a public administration professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, a university in Sao Paulo. I want to make something clear: Lula is the favorite, period. As the momentum is Bolsonaros, people forget that, Traumann said. Even if da Silva does come out on top, his administration will face tough opposition in Congress, according to Rey. Part of the big centrist bloc will be Bolsonarista, although we dont yet to what extent, she said. And Lula will have to deal with this. ___ Bridi reported from Brasilia. AP writers Mauricio Savarese, Daniel Politi and David Biller reported from Sao Paulo, Curitiba and Rio de Janeiro. WASHINGTON The founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group and four associates planned an armed rebellion to keep President Donald Trump in power, a federal prosecutor contended Monday as the most serious case yet went to trial in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Stewart Rhodes and his band of extremists were prepared to go to war to stop Joe Biden from becoming president, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Nestler told jurors. The group celebrated the Capitol attack as a victory in that fight and continued their plot even after Bidens electoral victory was certified, Nestler alleged. Their goal was to stop, by whatever means necessary, the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by taking up arms against the United States government, the prosecutor said during his opening statement. They concocted a plan for armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy. The defendants are the first among hundreds of people arrested in the Capitol riot to stand trial on seditious conspiracy, a rare Civil War-era charge that calls for up to 20 years behind bars. The stakes are high for the Justice Department, which last secured such a conviction at trial nearly 30 years ago, and intends to try two more groups on the charge later this year. The trial comes as Trump continues to insist, against much evidence, that the 2020 election was stolen from him, and as vocal pushback against the charges filed against those who entered the Capitol continues in some quarters. The broader reaction could show how the American public, as well as the jury, sees the attack, nearly two years later. Defense attorneys accused prosecutors of cherry-picking comments from messages and videos and said the government has no evidence there ever was any plan to attack the Capitol. Rhodes attorney said his client will take the stand and show that the Oath Keepers had merely been preparing for orders they expected from Trump but never came. Stewart Rhodes meant no harm to the Capitol that day. Stewart Rhodes did not have any violent intent that day, Rhodes attorney, Phillip Linder, said. The story the government is trying to tell you today is completely wrong. On trial with Rhodes, of Granbury, Texas, are Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers; Kenneth Harrelson, another Florida Oath Keeper; Thomas Caldwell, a retired U.S. Navy intelligence officer from Virginia, and Jessica Watkins, who led an Ohio militia group. They face several other charges as well. They are among roughly 900 people who have been charged in the attack, which temporarily halted the certification of Bidens victory, sent lawmakers running for cover and left dozens of police officers injured. In the Oath Keepers case, prosecutors will try to prove that their actions were not a spontaneous outpouring of election-fueled rage but part of a detailed, drawn-out plot to stop Biden from entering the White House. The Oath Keepers were prepared in November, they were prepared in December and when the opportunity finally presented itself on Jan 6, 2021, they sprang into action, Nestler said. Rhodes began plotting to overturn Bidens victory right after the election, Nestler said. In November 2020, Rhodes sent his followers a step-by-step plan for stopping the transfer of power based on a popular uprising that brought down Yugoslavias president two decades earlier. Around the same time, Rhodes was also communicating in another internet group which included Trump ally Roger Stone that was called FOS, or Friends of Stone, according to testimony. On Nov. 7, 2020, Rhodes said in a message to that group that he was on his way to D.C. for a possible op and was available to meet face-to-face. As December approached, Rhodes rhetoric became increasingly violent and desperate, Nestler said. In messages and comments read to the jury, the Oath Keepers repeatedly warned of violence if Biden were to become president. During a December interview, Rhodes called senators traitors and warned that the Oath Keepers would have to overthrow, abort or abolish Congress. He described Jan. 6 as a hard constitutional deadline for stopping the transfer of power. The Oath Keepers organized training, including one session on unconventional warfare. Before coming to Washington, they stashed weapons of war at a Virginia hotel to serve as quick reaction force that could get guns into the capital quickly if necessary, the prosecutor said. As Oath Keepers stormed the Capitol in helmets and other battle gear, Rhodes remained on the outside, like a general surveying his troops on a battlefield, Nestler said. After the attack, the elated Oath Keepers went to a Virginia restaurant to celebrate their victory, the prosecutor said. In the days between the riot and Bidens inauguration, Rhodes spent more than $17,000 on firearm parts, ammunition and other items, prosecutors say. Shortly after the insurrection, Rhodes was secretly recorded saying that his only regret is that they should have brought rifles, Nestler said. Among those who may testify during the trial, which will last several weeks, are three Oath Keepers whove pleaded guilty to seditious conspiracy and are cooperating with prosecutors in hopes of getting lighter sentences. They include a man who says that after arriving in Washington, Meggs told him that another Florida Oath Keeper had brought explosives in his RV. The governments first witness was a FBI agent, who responded on Jan. 6 to help rescue senators. He described lawmakers crying, broken doors and windows and a scene that looked like a bomb had gone off. Defense lawyers say prosecutors have ripped the Oath Keepers messages out of context to paint them unfairly. The Oath Keepers came to Washington to provide security at events for figures such as Stone before the presidents big outdoor rally behind the White House, defense lawyers said. Rhodes attorney described the group as a peacekeeping force and called his client an extremely patriotic man who loves this country. Rhodes attorneys plan to argue that Rhodes believed Trump was going to going to invoke the Insurrection Act and call up a militia, which Rhodes had been calling on him to do to stop Biden from becoming president. Rhodes lawyers have said he was merely lobbying the president to invoke a U.S. law. Prosecutors say its clear the Oath Keepers were going to act regardless of what Trump did. Nestler told jurors that Rhodes, a Yale Law School graduate, was only using the Insurrection Act as legal cover. In one message, Rhodes wrote in December 2020 that Trump needs to know that if he fails to act, then we will. An attorney for Caldwell said his client is a disabled veteran who didnt even know of the Oath Keepers until November 2020. The defense lawyer, David Fischer, called Jan. 6 a black eye for the country, but said Caldwell merely came to Washington on a date with his wife and wasnt een planning to go to the Capitol until Trumps speech on the Ellipse before the riot. Mr. Caldwell couldnt storm his way out of a paper bag, Fischer said. I came here to clear his name. ___ This story has been corrected to reflect that there are five defendants, not five men, on trial. ___ For full coverage of the Capitol riot, go to https://www.apnews.com/capitol-siege More on Donald Trump-related investigations: https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded publicly on Monday to the biggest protests in Iran in years, breaking weeks of silence to condemn what he called rioting and accuse the United States and Israel of planning the protests. The unrest, ignited by the death of a young woman in the custody of Irans morality police, is flaring up across the country for a third week despite government efforts to crack down. On Monday, Iran shuttered its top technology university following an hours-long standoff between students and the police that turned the prestigious institution into the latest flashpoint of protests and ended with hundreds of young people arrested. Speaking to a cadre of police students in Tehran, Khamenei said he was deeply heartbroken by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody, calling it a tragic incident. However, he lambasted the protests as a foreign plot to destabilize Iran, echoing authorities previous comments. This rioting was planned, he said. These riots and insecurities were designed by America and the Zionist regime, and their employees. Meanwhile, Sharif University of Technology in Tehran announced that only doctoral students would be allowed on campus until further notice following hours of turmoil Sunday, when witnesses said antigovernment protesters clashed with pro-establishment students. The witnesses, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said the police kept hundreds of students holed up on campus and fired rounds of tear gas to disperse the demonstrations. The student association said plainclothes officers surrounded the school from all sides as protests roiled the campus after nightfall and detained at least 300 students. Plainclothes officers beat a professor and several university employees, the association added. The state-run IRNA news agency sought to downplay the violent standoff, reporting a protest gathering took place without causing casualties. But it also said police released 30 students from detention, acknowledging many had been caught in the dragnet by mistake as they tried to go home. The crackdown sparked backlash on Monday at home and abroad. Suppose we beat and arrest, is this the solution? asked a column in the Jomhouri Eslami daily, a hard-line Iranian newspaper. Is this productive? German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the the regimes brute force at Sharif University as an expression of sheer fear at the power of education and freedom. The courage of Iranians is incredible, she said. U.S. President Joe Biden said he remains gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protestors in Iran, including students and women, who are demanding their equal rights and basic human dignity. The United States stands with Iranian women and all the citizens of Iran who are inspiring the world with their bravery, Biden said in a statement. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters: It is absolutely essential to show maximum restraint, maximum containment, when dealing (with) demonstrations all over the world, and the same is valid, obviously, for Iran. Irans latest protest movement, which has produced some of the nations most widespread unrest in years, emerged as a response to Aminis death after her arrest for allegedly violating the countrys strict Islamic dress code. It has since grown into an open challenge to the Iranian leadership, with women burning their state-mandated headscarves and chants of Death to the dictator, echoing from streets and balconies after dark. The demonstrations have tapped a deep well of grievances in Iran, including the countrys social restrictions, political repression and ailing economy strangled by American sanctions. The unrest has continued in Tehran and far-flung provinces even as authorities have disrupted internet access and blocked social media apps. Protests also have spread across the Middle East and to Europe and North America. Thousands poured into the streets of Los Angeles to show solidarity. Police scuffled with protesters outside Iranian embassies in London and Athens. Crowds chanted Woman! Life! Freedom! in Paris. In his remarks on Monday, Khamenei condemned scenes of protesters ripping off their hijabs and setting fire to mosques, banks and police cars as actions that are not normal, that are unnatural. He warned that those who foment unrest to sabotage the Islamic Republic deserve harsh prosecution and punishment. Security forces have responded with tear gas, metal pellets and in some cases live fire, according to rights groups and widely shared footage, although the scope of the crackdown remains unclear. Irans state TV has reported the death toll from violent clashes between protesters and security officers could be as high as 41. Rights groups have given higher death counts, with London-based Amnesty International saying it has identified 52 victims. An untold number of people have been apprehended, with local officials reporting at least 1,500 arrests. Security forces have picked up artists who have voiced support for the protests and dozens of journalists. Most recently Sunday, authorities arrested Alborz Nezami, a reporter at an economic newspaper in Tehran. Irans intelligence ministry said nine foreigners have been detained over the protests. A 30-year-old Italian traveler named Alessia Piperno called her parents on Sunday to say she had been arrested, her father Alberto Piperno told Italian news agency ANSA. We are very worried, he said. The situation isnt going well. Most of the protesters appear to be under 25, according to witnesses Iranians who have grown up knowing little but global isolation and severe Western sanctions linked to Irans nuclear program. Talks to revive the landmark 2015 nuclear deal have stalled for months, fueling discontent as Irans currency declines in value and prices soar. A Tehran-based university teacher, Shahindokht Kharazmi, said the new generation has come up with unpredictable ways to defy authorities. The (young protesters) have learned the strategy from video games and play to win, Kharazmi told the pro-reform Etemad newspaper. There is no such thing as defeat for them. As the new academic year began this week, students at universities in major cities across Iran gathered in protest, according to videos widely shared on social media, clapping, chanting slogans against the government and waving their headscarves. The eruption of student anger has worried the Islamic Republic since at least 1999, when security forces and supporters of hard-line clerics attacked students protesting media restrictions. That wave of student protests under former reformist President Mohammad Khatami touched off the worst street battles since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Dont call it a protest, its a revolution now, shouted students at Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, as women set their hijabs alight. Students are awake, they hate the leadership! chanted crowds at the University of Mazandaran in the countrys north. Riot police have been out in force, patrolling streets near universities on motorbikes. NEW YORK Incidents of fraud and scams are occurring more often on the popular peer-to-peer payment service Zelle, according to a report issued Monday by the office of Sen. Elizabeth Warren, giving the public its first glimpse into the growing problems at Zelle. The report also found that the large banks that partly own Zelle have been reluctant to compensate customers who have been victims of fraud or scams. For instance, less than half of the money customers reported being sent via Zelle without authorization was being reimbursed. Warren, D-Massachusetts, a long-time critic of the big banks, requested data on fraud and scams on Zelle from seven banks starting in April. The report cites data from four banks that tallied 192,878 cases worth collectively $213.8 million in 2021 and the first half of 2022 where a customer claimed they had been fraudulently tricked into making a payment. In only roughly 3,500 cases did those banks reimburse the customer, the report found. Further, in the cases where its clear funds had been taken out of customers accounts without authorization, only 47% of those dollars were ever reimbursed. Since being launched in June 2017, Zelle has become a popular way for bank customers to send money to friends and family. Almost $500 billion in funds were sent via Zelle in 2021, according to Early Warning Services, the company that operates Zelle. Zelle is the banking industrys answer to the growing popularity of peer-to-peer payment services like PayPal, Venmo and the Cash App. The service allows a bank customer to instantaneously send money to a person via their email or phone number, and it will go from one bank account to another. More than 1,700 banks and credit unions offer the service. But the service has also grown more popular with scammers and criminals. Once money is sent via Zelle, it requires a banks intervention to attempt to get that money back. The cases of growing fraud and scams at Zelle have been highlighted in previous news reports, including two by The New York Times. But those stories cited mostly anecdotal evidence. Early Warning Services has previously said that 99.9% of all transactions happen without complaints of fraud or scams. A group of Democratic senators asked for usage data on Zelle after the reports in The New York Times. Banks are required under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to repay customers when funds are illegally taken out of their account without authorization. Banks have argued that in cases of fraud meaning a customers account becomes compromised somehow and they send an unauthorized payment they do reimburse customers. Banks are more reluctant to reimburse customers who claim to have been scammed, arguing that customers would make such claims more often and it would be hard to tell whether the customer is telling the truth. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has also been looking into Zelle and other payment platforms, and is expected to issue regulations that could require banks to reimburse customers for a wider array of scams and fraud. The banking industry, aware of Washingtons increased scrutiny of Zelle, has been on a campaign to show Zelle is a safe way to send money. The industry typically likes to point out that fraud and scam claims occur more often on the non-bank payment platforms like Venmo or the Cash App. That doesnt mean that Zelle, just like every other instant (peer-to-peer) payment service, is entirely free from those who seek to defraud the American consumer, four banking industry lobby groups said in a joint statement. Banks know this and take steps to mitigate instances of fraud and criminal activity. The data for individual banks shows the increase in fraud and scams. PNC Bank had 8,848 cases on Zelle in 2020, and is on pace to have roughly 12,300 cases this year. US Bank had 14,886 cases in 2020 and had 27,702 cases in 2021. Truist had 9,455 cases of fraud and scams on Zelle in 2020, which ballooned to 22,045 last year. In response to Warrens report, Zelles owner said the increased cases reflected the fact the service has become more popular. Zelle usage has grown significantly since its launch, from 247 million transactions in 2017 to 1.8 billion in 2021, while the proportion of fraud and scams has steadily decreased, Early Warning Services said in a statement. Warren made fireworks at a congressional hearing last month involving most of the CEOs of the big Wall Street banks that use and partly own Zelle, where she pushed each of the CEOs to release fraud and scam incident data at their banks. The seven are: JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, PNC Financial, Truist, Bank of America, Capital One and U.S. Bank. The hearing featured an exchange where Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase, apologized to Warren for not getting her the data she requested and promised she would have it at the end of that day. Warrens office says ultimately JPMorgans data on Zelle did not provide the information they were looking for, so data from JPMorgan is not included in the report.JPMorgan did not return a request for comment. Wells Fargo and Capitol one were also not included in the report. Wells said it sent its data to Warrens office on Sept. 28, a week after the congressional hearing. ___ This story has been updated to correct the name of the company operating Zelle. It is Early Warning Services, not Early Warning Systems. LEIPZIG, Germany Swedish scientist Svante Paabo won the Nobel Prize in medicine Monday for discoveries in human evolution that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal DNA that helped us understand what makes humans unique and provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Techniques that Paabo spearheaded allowed researchers to compare the genome of modern humans and that of other hominins the Denisovans as well as Neanderthals. Just as you do an archeological excavation to find out about the past, we sort of make excavations in the human genome, he said at a news conference held by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. While Neanderthal bones were first discovered in the mid-19th century, only by understanding their DNA often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the time when modern humans and Neanderthals diverged as a species, around 800,000 years ago. Paabo and his team also surprisingly found that gene flow had occurred from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens, demonstrating that they had children together during periods of co-existence, said Anna Wedell, chair of the Nobel Committee. This transfer of genes between hominin species affects how the immune system of modern humans reacts to infections, such as the coronavirus. People outside Africa have 1-2% of Neanderthal genes. Neanderthals were never in Africa, so theres no known direct contribution to people in sub-Saharan Africa. Paabo and his team managed to extract DNA from a tiny finger bone found in a cave in Siberia, leading to the recognition of a new species of ancient humans they called Denisovans. Wedell called it a sensational discovery that showed Neanderthals and Denisovans were sister groups that split from each other around 600,000 years ago. Denisovan genes have been found in up to 6% of modern humans in Asia and Southeast Asia, indicating interbreeding occurred there too. By mixing with them after migrating out of Africa, Homo sapiens picked up sequences that improved their chances to survive in their new environments, Wedell said. For example, Tibetans share a gene with Denisovans that helps them adapt to high altitude. Paabo said he was surprised to learn of his win, and at first thought it was an elaborate prank by colleagues or a call about his summer home in Sweden. So I was just gulping down the last cup of tea to go and pick up my daughter at her nanny where she has had an overnight stay, and then I got this call from Sweden, he said in an interview on the Nobel Prizes homepage. I thought, Oh the lawn mowers broken down or something' at the summer home. He also mused about what would have happened if Neanderthals had survived another 40,000 years. Would we see even worse racism against Neanderthals, because they were really in some sense different from us? Or would we actually see our place in the living world quite in a different way when we would have other forms of humans there that are very like us but still different, he said. Paabo, 67, performed his prizewinning studies at the University of Munich and at the Max Planck Institute. During the celebrations after the news conference in Leipzig, colleagues threw him into a pool of water. Paabo took it with humor, splashing his feet and laughing. Paabos father, Sune Bergstrom, won the Nobel prize in medicine in 1982, the eighth time the son or daughter of a laureate also won a Nobel Prize. In his book Neanderthal Man: In Search of Lost Genomes, Paabo described himself as Bergstroms secret extramarital son something he also mentioned briefly on Monday. He father took a big interest in his work, he said, but it was his mother who most encouraged him. The biggest influence in my life was for sure my mother, with whom I grew up, he said in the Nobel interview. And in some sense it makes me a bit sad that she cant experience this day. She sort of was very much into science, and very much stimulated and encouraged me through the years. Scientists in the field lauded the Nobel Committees choice. David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, said he was thrilled, fearing the field of ancient DNA might fall between the cracks. By recognizing that DNA can be preserved for tens of thousands of years and developing ways to extract it Paabo and his team created a completely new way to answer questions about our past, said Reich, who is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press Health and Science Department. Dr. Eric Green, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, called it a great day for genomics, a relatively young field first named in 1987. The Human Genome project, which ran from 1990-2003, got us the first sequence of the human genome, and weve improved that sequence ever since, Green said. When you sequence DNA from an ancient fossil, you only have vanishingly small amounts, Green said. Among Paabos innovations was figuring out methods for extracting and preserving these tiny amounts. He was then able to lay pieces of the Neanderthal genome sequence against the sequencing of the Human Genome Project. Paabos team published the first draft of a Neanderthal genome in 2009, and sequenced more than 60% of the full genome from a small sample of bone, after contending with decay and contamination from bacteria. We should always be proud of the fact that we sequenced our genome. But the idea that we can go back in time and sequence the genome that doesnt live anymore and something thats a direct relative of humans is truly remarkable, Green said. Paabo said they discovered during the pandemic that the greatest risk factor to become severely ill and even die when youre infected with the virus has come over to modern people from Neanderthals. So we and others are now intensely studying the Neanderthal version versus the protective modern version to try to understand what the functional difference would be. Nobel Prize announcements continue Tuesday with the physics prize, chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The Nobel Peace Prize will be announced Friday and the economics award on Oct. 10. Last years medicine recipients were David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for their discoveries into how the human body perceives temperature and touch. The prizes carry a cash award of 10 million Swedish kronor (nearly $900,000) and will be handed out on Dec. 10. The money comes from a bequest left by the prizes creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1895. ___ Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky. Frank Jordans contributed from Berlin; David Keyton from Stockholm, Sweden, and Maddie Burakoff from New York. ___ Follow all AP stories about the Nobel Prizes at https://apnews.com/hub/nobel-prizes ___ 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. KYIV, Ukraine Ukrainian forces scored more gains in their counteroffensive across at least two fronts Monday, advancing in the very areas that Russia is trying to absorb and challenging Moscows effort to engage fresh troops and its threats to defend incorporated areas by all means. In their latest breakthrough, Ukrainian forces penetrated Moscows defenses in the strategic southern Kherson region, one of the four areas in Ukraine that Russia is in the process of annexing. Kyivs troops also consolidated gains in the east and other major battlefields, re-establishing Ukrainian control just as Russian President Vladimir Putin is trying to overcome problems with manpower, weapons, troop morale and logistics, along with intensifying domestic and international criticism. Putin faces disarray and anger domestically about his partial troop mobilization and confusion about the establishment of new Russian borders. Ukraines advances have become so apparent that even Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov, who usually focuses on his militarys successes and the enemys losses, was forced to acknowledge it. With numerically superior tank units in the direction of Zolota Balka and Oleksandrivka, the enemy managed to forge deep into our defenses, Konashenkov said Monday, referring to two towns in the Kherson region. He coupled that with claims that Russian forces inflicted heavy losses on Ukraines military. Ukrainian forces have struggled to retake the Kherson region due to its open terrain, in contrast to their successful breakout offensive in the northeast around the countrys second-largest city of Kharkiv that began last month. Ukraine has pressed its counteroffensive in the Kherson region since the summer, relentlessly pummeling Russian supply lines and making inroads into Russian-held areas west of the Dnieper River. The Ukrainian military has used U.S.-supplied HIMARS multiple rocket launchers to repeatedly hit the main bridge across the Dnieper and a dam that served as a second crossing. It also has struck pontoon bridges that Russia has used to supply its troops. As the front lines shifted, the political theater in Moscow continued, with Russias lower house of parliament rubber-stamping annexation treaties for Ukraines Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions to join Russia. The upper house will follow suit Tuesday. This follows annexation referendums that the Kremlin orchestrated last week that the U.N. chief and Western nations have said were illegal and fraudulent. Russias moves to incorporate the Ukrainian regions, as well as Putins effort to mobilize more troops, have been done so hastily that government officials have struggled to explain and implement them. On Monday, the issue was basic: Exactly what areas of Ukraine is Russia trying to incorporate? Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Donetsk and Luhansk are joining Russia with the same administrative borders that existed before a conflict erupted there in 2014 between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian forces. But he added that the borders Zaporizhzhia and Kherson are still undecided. We will continue to discuss that with residents of those regions, Peskov said. A senior Russian lawmaker offered a different view. Pavel Krasheninnikov said Zaporizhzhia will be absorbed within its administrative borders, meaning Moscow plans to incorporate parts of the region still under Kyivs control. He said similar logic will apply to Kherson, but that Russia will include two districts of the neighboring Mykolaiv region that are now occupied by Russia. In addition to the Kherson areas that Russias Defense Ministry cited, other sources showed Ukrainian flags, soldiers deployed or other signs that Kyivs forces had retaken the villages of Arkhanhelske, Myroliubivka, Khreshchenivka, Mykhalivka and Novovorontsovka. There was no immediate confirmation from Kyiv on the gains. The situation in the regional capital, also called Kherson, was so precarious that Russian authorities are restricting people from leaving, Ukraines presidential office said. A Russian-installed official in the Kherson region, Kirill Stremousov, acknowledged that the Ukrainian forces have broken through a little deeper but insisted that everything is under control and that Russias defense system is working. Still, Russia claimed some success at pushing back. The Moscow-appointed chief of the Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, said Ukrainian troops tried to advance toward Dudchany along the Dniepers western bank, seeking to reach a key dam at Nova Kakhovka, but that Russian warplanes destroyed two Ukrainian battalions and halted the offensive. Saldo also said Russian forces fended off Ukraines attempted inroads into the Kherson region from Mykolaiv and Kryvyi Rih. Neither Saldos nor Stremousovs claims could be independently verified. Ukraine reported advances in other areas Russia is annexing. The Ukrainian governor of the Luhansk region, Serhiy Haidai, said Kyivs forces retook the village of Torske, 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the city of Kreminna. Ukrainian military analyst Oleh Zhdanov said the area is key for controlling the entire Luhansk region, because further beyond (the city) the Russians dont have any more lines of defenses. Retaking this city opens up operational space for Ukrainians to rapidly advance to the very state border with Russia, Zhdanov told The Associated Press. He said Russian troops had retreated from the Kharkiv region. Ukraines army reportedly liberated most of Borova in the Kharkiv region across the Oskil River, 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of the city of Lyman. Officials posted a video while driving along recaptured streets, waving the Ukrainian flag. Finally, you are home. Finally, its Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine! an onlooker yelled. Elsewhere in the Kharkiv region, a doctor was killed and nurse wounded in a Russian missile attack on a hospital in Kupiansk that caused major damage, Gov. Oleh Syniehubov reported. Last week, at least 24 civilians were killed in an attack on a convoy trying to flee Kupiansk. Ukraine also has retaken Lyman, a strategic eastern city that the Russians had used as a key logistics and transport hub. Lyman is in the Donetsk region near the border with Luhansk. Ukraines push to recapture territory has embarrassed the Kremlin and prompted rare domestic criticism of Putins war. Tens of thousands of Russian men have fled Russia since the Sept. 21 call-up. Many flew to Turkey, one of the few countries maintaining air links with Russia. Others have left in cars, creating long traffic jams at the Russian borders with Georgia, Kazakhstan and Finland. The International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.s nuclear watchdog, said Monday that director general of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant Europes largest had been released from Russian custody. Russian forces had blindfolded and detained Ihor Murashov on Friday for questioning. ___ Yuras Karmanau contributed from Tallinn, Estonia ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal Public Service Company of New Mexico proposed a $344 million grid modernization plan Monday morning to help accommodate more renewable technology on its system, improve grid reliability and resiliency, and offer customers real-time monitoring of their own energy use for the first time. The plan, which PNM filed at the Public Regulation Commission on Monday morning, calls for installing smart meters on all the homes and businesses of PNMs 530,000 customers over the next six years. That would allow for two-way, real-time system monitoring and communication between the utility and its customers. It would also facilitate the addition of new technology for PNM to instantaneously and automatically detect and isolate problems on the grid, limiting the impact of outages and greatly speeding repairs. In addition, the plan includes foundational cybersecurity upgrades to better protect the grid as smart technology is installed, PNM executives told reporters in a virtual press conference. Overall, the investment would bolster the utilitys ability to manage the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy as large, centralized power plants are replaced by renewable technologies. Those include utility-run solar, wind and battery storage systems scattered in many areas around the state, plus customer-sited rooftop solar. To coordinate it all, PNM needs a modern, 21st-century grid that provides instantaneous monitoring and control across the entire system, including two-way communication between the utility and its customers, said PNM Chief Policy and Legal Adviser Laura Sanchez. In the last 50 years, the electric grid has evolved from a one-way power source to a dynamic multi-functioning system that not only powers our homes, but has the ability to integrate with all customers to give them control over their energy usage and bills, as well as providing greater opportunities for more rooftop solar, Sanchez told reporters. PNMs grid modernization plan will add technology to enable all of this to integrate onto the system, while also making sure the system is reliable that the lights come on when you throw the switch and that it is resilient. Utilities in at least 20 other states have either already adopted or initiated such grid modernization programs. The New Mexico Legislature passed a law in 2020 instructing the PRC to oversee grid modernization. And, early this year, the PRC ordered PNM to submit a modernization plan to the commission. If approved, the six-year investment would cost average residential consumers about $1.20 per month through a new fixed charge, or rate rider, on customers bills, said PNM spokesman Ray Sandoval. For less than the cost of a small cup of coffee per month, PNM customers can take control of their energy usage and their bill, while helping with the energy transition, Sandoval told reporters. Smart meters will allow customers to monitor their own consumption in real time to make personal decisions about the best time of day to run appliances, or plug in electric vehicles for home charging, based on off-peak electricity pricing. Suppose you need to run your clothes dryer or dishwasher, Sanchez said. When its fully implemented, grid modernization will help you determine when the best time to run them would be. PNM will propose a new time-of-day pricing structure in a separate filing with the PRC to facilitate customer choice after conducting a pilot program to test it, Sanchez said. Other modernization technologies in the plan include: Software and hardware upgrades to PNMs communications network. Remote fault indicators installed across the grid to immediately detect and pinpoint failures, effectively isolating problems to reduce customer impact while allowing for rapid, targeted repairs. Volt-variation controls to smooth out peaks and valleys on the grid as customers add rooftop solar or plug-in electric vehicles. Upgrades in PNMs distribution and analytics system, plus launch of a new customer energy management platform, or dashboard, for consumers to monitor their energy use on mobile devices. New cybersecurity software and hardware to better protect the grid. Apart from the direct customer benefit of personalized control over their energy use, grid modernization can increase New Mexicos competitiveness in attracting more businesses to the state, said PNM Business Development Manager Elisha Saavedra-Torres. Thats because many companies today want direct access to renewable energy with a system thats reliable, resilient and secure. (Were seeing) unprecedented interest from companies that are considering moving their facilities into our service territory, Saavedra-Torres said. Competitive cost, cybersecurity and sustainability are key considerations for a business on where to operate. If approved by the PRC, smart meter installation will prioritize low-income communities, making them the first upgrade beneficiaries, Sandoval said. And the new $1.20 rate rider wont begin until fall 2023, once next years peak summer electric consumption months have ended. High school seniors in New Mexico still have time to apply to become a 2023 Daniels Scholar and receive up to $100,000 toward their college degree. To be eligible, a student must be a U.S. citizen and a resident of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, or Wyoming. Eligible students must also have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and live in a household with an adjusted gross income of $85,000 or less, among other requirements. Selected students will be able to use the funds to attend any two or four-year accredited university in the country, a news release from the Daniels Fund states. Funds can be used for tuition, housing, books and other supplies. Every Daniels Scholar receives a laptop as well as networking and leadership development opportunities, the release states. These scholars are Americas next generation of leaders, Hanna Skandera, Daniels Fund president said. They persevere through lifes challenges and their values reflect those of our founder Bill Daniels they operate with integrity, honesty, and respect, while striving for excellence and leading with an entrepreneurial spirit. The Daniels Fund awarded scholarships to 30 New Mexico students earlier this year. They have provided more than $235 million to more than 4,800 scholars since 2000. Applications opened Sept. 15 and the deadline to apply is Oct. 15 at 4 p.m. Students can apply here. Selected scholars will be announced in March of 2023. SANTA FE Mark Ronchettis bid to win the Governors Office is getting a boost from another prominent Republican governor. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin will make campaign stops this week in Albuquerque and Las Cruces with Ronchetti, the Ronchetti campaign announced Monday. The Wednesday campaign events will mark the third visit to New Mexico from an out-of-state GOP governor to stump for Ronchetti, who is trying to unseat incumbent Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, in the Nov. 8 general election. Florida Gov. Ron Desantis, a potential 2024 presidential candidate, traveled to New Mexico in August to take part in a campaign rally with Ronchetti in Carlsbad. In addition, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey made a campaign stop with Ronchetti last month, as the two toured an Albuquerque manufacturing facility. The Republican Governors Association has targeted New Mexicos race for governor as one of its priorities for the current election cycle, and a political committee affiliated with the RGA has spent more than $1.8 million primarily on TV ads on this years contest. Meanwhile, Lujan Grisham has not had as many high-profile campaign surrogates in her bid for re-election, though the national Democratic Governors Association has also been active in the race. A political committee affiliated with the DGA has spent more than $2.2 million this year in New Mexico, mostly on TV ads targeting Ronchetti. Justin Johnson Cortez is on a mission to learn no matter the situation. The actor believes he can take something from each lesson. Hes currently learning what its like to live in the late-1800s as he stars in the new series, Walker Independence. The world that were portraying, we want to do it authentically and accurately, he says. We have people coming form all different backgrounds. Walker Independence is the prequel to The CWs hit series, Walker. The series is set in the late-1800s and begins with Abby Walker, played by Katherine McNamara being left for dead after her husband is murdered. She survives thanks to the Apache tribe who tend to her injuries and Calian, played by Johnson Cortez, her Native guide who takes her to Independence, Texas, and an uncertain future. Calian is a member of an Apache tribe living outside of Independence, and he works as a scout for the town while holding mixed feelings about the influx of the white settlers out West. On one hand, Calian is curious about their innovations, music and culture but he remains wary about losing his tribal lands. On her quest for revenge, her path crosses with Hoyt Rawlins, played by Matt Barr, which ultimately leads to an entangled relationship for the three characters. The series premieres at 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, on the CW, and then joins the Thursday lineup for the network. The series is being filmed in Santa Fe, where production has been taking place since mid-summer. According to the NM Film Office, the production will employ approximately 275 New Mexico crew members, over 14 New Mexico resident actors, and approximately 3,500 New Mexico background talent. Johnson Cortez takes on this role with the weight of his ancestors on his shoulders; a Native Yaqui, he learned to speak Apache through an Apache translator on set. He also did the majority of his own stunts, including some impressive ones on horseback. When this opportunity came up, I was a bit nervous because I wanted to make sure that the character was going to be represented in a positive way, Johnson Cortez says. I didnt want to represent the same old image of Native American characters on screen, assimilating into Western culture, so Im excited to dive in deeper and show the complexities behind this character. There is a way to tell this story by sharing his interests and curiosity in the town in the expansion of the West authentically. Thats going to come out when exploring his past through his history and experience in the world up until that point. Johnson Cortez is grateful for the diversity on set for the series. When I read the script, my Native side is heartbroken, he says. At the same time, I have all these people to figure out. Life in the 1800s is a complex situation. America is a melting pot and the West is the first example of that. The show is going to represent diversity through ethnicities and orientations. Hopefully with the show, well be able to expand on what a Western series is about. Johnson Cortez has also been impressed and immersed himself into living in Santa Fe with his family. The pilot was filmed months before the series got picked up by The CW. When we shot the pilot I fell in love with all of the cultures in New Mexico, he says. Im a Native American and Ive been looking forward to exploring more with my family. My kids saw Indian Market in the summer and its been amazing. From left, Greg Hovanessian as Tom Davidson and Philemon Chambers as Augustus in Walker Independence. (Anna Kooris/The CW) Katherine McNamara stars as Abby Walker in "Walker Independence." (Anna Kooris/The CW) Justin Johnson Cortez stars as Calian in "Walker Independence." (Anna Kooris/The CW) From left, Philemon Chambers as Augustus and Greg Hovanessian as Tom Davidson in "Walker Independence." (Anna Kooris/The CW) Prev 1 of 4 Next Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal Fall weather has arrived in Albuquerque, along with the enticing aroma of roasting green chile, the chill of crisp mornings and the view of hot air balloons on the horizon. But rainy, windy conditions have postponed or canceled several events at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. National Weather Service meteorologist Scott Overpeck said the state will likely hold onto the moisture through the weekend. Certainly for the next couple of days, were just going to be in this wet pattern, he said. High winds grounded the fiestas opening weekend evening glow events on Saturday and Sunday. Rain showers and 15-20 mph winds canceled Monday mornings launch and competition. The Americas Challenge Gas Balloon Race, originally planned to begin on Saturday, was postponed for at least two days because of the weather. This years race features eight teams from five countries in a distance competition, with the groups each lifting off from Balloon Fiesta Park. Competitors often travel thousands of miles in the gas balloons. Kim Vesely, the races media liaison, said Monday afternoon that the team was examining forecasts to ensure a safe, good, competitive event. Were also looking at conditions in the direction that the balloons will travel, she said. We look at what types of weather might be there at the time the balloons get there and what the landing conditions might be like. A shifting pattern of erratic storms and winds make predicting race conditions challenging. You go when you have that window, and it could be overnight, Vesely said. Tuesday in Albuquerque is expected to have a low temperature of 55 degrees and high of 73. The city will be mostly cloudy, with a 40% chance of rain. Showers and thunderstorms are more likely in the afternoon. Wednesday will likely dip to a low of 52 degrees and reach a high of 68, with a 50% chance of rain. Albuquerque is expected to be partly sunny, with winds at 5 to 10 mph. Albuquerque could have a low of 52 degrees on Thursday, with a high temperature of 69 degrees and a 40% chance of rain. Fridays forecast shows a mostly sunny day, with a low of 52 degrees, high of 69 and a 30% chance of rain. Saturday and Sunday are both expected to be mostly sunny, with low temperatures each day of 50 degrees and highs of 69. Saturday has a 30% chance of rain, and Sunday has a 40% chance of rain. This weeks rainstorms could flood areas in and around the burn scars of this years wildfires. Storm motions are slow and erratic, Overpeck said. Thats one of the reasons why were concerned about the flash flooding, not just in the burn areas, but there could be a few other spots that could see isolated flash flooding. Venture capitalists, e-commerce giants, and prominent D2C brand owners gathered to explore factors that would enable Indian entrepreneurs to build luxury brands for a global consumer audience, a market currently valued at 275 billion USD. The closed-door discussion took place at Upswing 2022- a future forecasting event created by strategic brand consultancy The Better Collective focusing on the theme Is India sitting on a multimillion-dollar homegrown luxury opportunity? Senior leaders from the industry came forward to discuss the variables that can help both promote and obstruct the transformation of India from a supplier to a creator of globally relevant luxury brands. India has been a long-time supply partner to luxury giants like LVMH, Estee Lauder, Kering, and Richmont among others, exporting millions of dollars worth of essential oils, diamonds, textiles, and coffee which power brands like Tiffanys, Omega, and Chanel. While the domestic luxury market is focused on importing global brands for Indian consumers, made-in-India luxury brands are still only a handful. Brands like Tanishq, Sabyasachi, and Forest Essentials are showing us the possibility for building truly world-class brands that leverage Indias natural resources, craftsmanship heritage, and philosophy with finesse. In fact, Estee Lauder has recently created a brand incubator for Indian beauty brands because they see global potential. So the question is why are there only a handful of such brands and how can Indian entrepreneurs move further in this direction-be it through fundraising, brand building or retail partnerships. said Radhika Butala, Founder, The Better Collective. The panel discussion featured a thought-provoking conversation with Nikhil Vora, Founder of Sixth Sense Ventures who has invested in companies like Paytm, Purplle, Saffron Stays, Giva, and Vahdam Teas among many others, Almona Bhatia, Chief Strategy Officer, Tata Cliq Luxury, and Shubhika Jain, founder of D2C skincare brand Ras Luxury Oils. Most of the legacy business houses have been brought up on the notion of end consumers who are mass or mass premium. Most of the next generation of entrepreneurs have a very short window of opportunity, they are not there for the next big thing in the next 50 years, at most they are looking at a window of 10 years. So you can't have a luxury brand that requires disproportionate capital and disproportionate resources of the founder when they are not available. Go with the underlying assumption that Indian entrepreneurs dont have the longevity needed to create a luxury brand, said Nikhil Vora, Founder, Sixth Sense Venture. Adding to this Almona Bhatia, CSO, Tata Cliq Luxury said, You need the right mix of beautiful story-telling, right testing of products. And it needs to be done over time. Today, collaborations and pop-ups are a great way to start creating that buzz and test the market to understand the product life cycle better and faster. Along with that, a crucial aspect of luxury marketing is flawlessness and aesthetics, and great intuitive customer service. Indian luxe brands are absolutely beautiful. They are hand-picked, labour of love. But we need better story-telling, and to create more windows for our brands to narrate stories, backed with strong customer service, back-end proficiency of logistics, and customer sensitivity. Shubhika Jain, Founder of Ras Luxury Oils said People are buying luxury online but they are buying it from places people already trust, 20% of customers globally are buying luxury online and that's growing so that gives us hope. And to be able to move from online to offline the passion for the product has to be greater than the passion for profit. We are actually foraying into global markets as we speak and its encouraging to see the enthusiasm for our products. While vision, capital, and aesthetic storytelling remain an ongoing challenge, the panel was in consensus that the world is eager for the India story. The perception that true luxury can only emerge from Italy or France is slowly changing as India leverages its equally rich cultural history and resources with greater brand-building finesse. Hoopr.ai, India's biggest music licensing platform has launched a new campaign called #HarGharCreator with an ad to celebrate and empower creators across India. Hoopr.ai is solving a billion-dollar problem faced by content creators and businesses every day that of discovering and licensing the right music for their videos. Indias 80 mn+ creator community comprises vloggers, podcasters, gamers, filmmakers, live-streamers, and influencers creating audio-visual content on a variety of topics. With over 25,000 tracks and sound effects, Hoopr.ai is not only enabling these creators to get specific music for their needs, but also helping them avoid copyright strikes and legal issues. Furthermore, whats also changing is the mindset with regards to content creation, with more people embracing it as a career choice. And that is exactly what the ad captures. In the ad, a young college student can be seen telling his strict father that he doesnt want to be an engineer but rather a content creator. The reaction of the father makes the ad a must watch for all content creators and their families. Thrilled with the launch, Gaurav Dagaonkar, Co-founder & CEO, Hoopr.ai, shares We are excited to roll out the #HarGharCreator campaign as part of the Hoopr platform launch. A creator is now emerging in nearly every home across India, and we want to help them find phenomenal Indian music for their videos. Apart from individual creators, the music on Hoopr is also being used by brands, enterprises, and OTT platforms, as it is cleared for use and free from any copyright strikes or takedowns. Hoopr.ai secured a seed funding of $1.5 million in December 2021 from investors such as Venture Catalysts, 9Unicorns, Inflection Point Ventures, Ashneer Grover, Sahil Barua (Delhivery), Anshoo Sharma (Magicpin), etc., and has since grown strongly. The company has built Indias first and biggest music licensing marketplace that hosts thousands of original music tracks in Hindi, English, Punjabi, and other regional languages. The library boasts of tracks by popular artistes such as Monali Thakur, Ash King, Nikhil Dsouza along with numerous regional artistes. Within a few weeks of going live, Hoopr.ai has got over 15,000+ creators using the platform including popular creators such as Ashish Vidyarthi, Tanya Khanijow, and City Ka Theka. Speaking on the campaign launch, Meghna Mittal, Co-founder & CMO, Hoopr.ai, said, The creator economy is primed more than ever to grow, and were excited to support creators across India. Theres also increased awareness about the need for sourcing licensed music since the awareness on issues such as copyrights has increased. Apart from helping creators, Hoopr will also enable music creators to unlock a new source of revenue for their music. The creator economy, considering the pace at which it is growing, is set to become a major contributor to the Indian economy. At this point, around 6 lakh people make a living directly through monetary gains associated with the creator ecosystem and this will continue to rise. The creator economy rose from $1.7 billion in 2016 to $6.5 billion in 2019 and to $9.7 billion in 2020. This growth has seen continuous increase even during COVID with many people becoming full-time creators across platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and other short video apps. With the #HarGharCreator campaign, Hoopr.ai aims to change the way creators are perceived. The company aims to build more tools that help creators make better content and at the same time enabling musicians to monetize their music better. Meta kicked off the 2022 edition of its Creator Day to celebrate creators in India and recognise the way they push culture forward on Facebook and Instagram. Creator Day is Metas annual flagship event to celebrate creators, as they best reflect the way its platforms are used by people to share, express themselves and be entertained. The 2022 edition of the event is taking place across 5 cities Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi and will be unique because of their scale and on-ground presence after 2 years due to the pandemic. It is also the first time, at Creator Day, that Meta provided the fans an opportunity to meet and interact with their favourite creators a unique engagement aimed to strengthen their relationship. In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Paras Sharma, Director, Content and Community Partnerships, Meta, said that the year 2022 has been wonderful, exciting, inspirational and extremely creative. Continuing further, he said, One thing which is very dear to me is that when I hear about creators or small businesses achieving success through and on our platforms, that is the most fulfilling part of the job. At the same time, when you see things that are breaking out on the platform, that is extremely inspirational. For example, blockbuster Telugu movie Pushpa becoming a nationwide phenomenon through Reels, or Kacha Badam; or the memes or trends around Shark Tank that are on a traditional platform and are taking a different shape on our platforms they are extremely inspirational. When you see a creator from a small town and become a national rage, its an extremely humbling and fulfilling nature of joy. Sharma highlighted some of the interesting features that Meta has rolled out on Instagram Reels, including multiple audio features, the largest amount of mimicry, the largest amount of audio creation on Reels. We have added a number of things to make the creation process far more easier and richer for creators, which is extremely gratifying. In order to bring the creators together and exponentially scale up the creativity and innovation, we have introduced the collaboration feature and we see them collaborate. Thus, it is so interesting and unique for us, he added. When asked about the creators education, Sharma explained, Creators education is extremely dear to our heart. Whatever we do on Facebook and Instagram for the hundred millions of our fans is powered by the creators and they are the source behind it and their authenticity and their love for craft. Being the leading platform, we have always asked ourselves Are we really building for future? Are we growing the ecosystem for creators? Two years back, Meta scaled its Born on Instagram program to say how it can make the creators ambitious, who want to become a creator but they dont have a structured way to be a creator. On the Born on Instagram platform, you can learn at your own pace with multiple modules and things that can help you become a creator. The access to creator education became democratised, anyone can access and get high-quality education. We do webinars, where we call our creators, both national and international, to inspire the young and budding creators. We started in English and Hindi, now we have launched seven languages and 65 per cent of those creators are coming from smaller places. We firmly and genuinely believe in scaling the creators' education to grow the entire ecosystem of the creators, Sharma affirmed. On how Meta is being strengthened as a platform for advertisers, Sharma said, We have a very strong and robust platform Facebook. Brands come and advertise on Facebook and it continues to power. We are now an extremely strong and robust model even on Instagram. In the last couple of years, we are now focussed on how do we get the creator economy and the brands come together, how do we enable brands to cover the power of creators and we have various emergence session we bring creators to brands, some of our creators have gone and spoken in the brand forum. We match creators to the brands and their briefs, they get economic opportunities and brands get to see the power of creators and the traction that they bring to their brands. Speaking about the future focus of Meta, Sharma emphasised on the commitment in the creators ecosystem, the commitment to Reels, the commitment to know and follow as a recommended content from a user point of view, the commitment to increase Metas investments and efforts on AI and user experience, the commitment to add new features that make the creation process even more innovative and easier for creators to do, as well as the commitment to continue creating new avenues for a sustainable and economic mall for creators. Plum BodyLovin', the immensely loved bath & body brand by Plum, has swiftly become the brand of choice for fragrances with its premium yet fun vegan body mists & perfumes! With a variety of drool-worthy fragrances for every mood and personality, the brand is confident that their all-new unconventional TVC featuring Bollywood actor, style icon and Gen Z rising star Ananya Panday, will capture the attention & hearts of all Gen-Zs & Millennials looking to smell fabulous, daily! The youth of today aims to make the most of every day and moment, with an emphasis on having fun & living it up. Given the similar fun & upbeat nature of Plum BodyLovin's perfume body mists, they coined their sign-off line for the TVC i.e. 'High on fun'. The ad is targeted at Gen Z & Millennials & hence Panday, who has been internet's favorite since a few years, happily confesses that she has been roped in only to grab the viewer's attention. With this one playful jib, she pulls us into the world of Plum BodyLovin' where everything is high on fun, including Ananya of course. While the Hawaiian Rumba fragrance takes us to a day at the beach, the Vanilla Vibes world is mouth-watering and in Trippin' Mimosas, it's a summer vibe all over. Each world captures different moods and how these signature fragrances are an all-new cocktail of fun. Speaking about the campaign, Shivani Behl, Chief Marketing Officer Plum, said, With this campaign, we aim to highlight our diverse portfolio of fragrances, both body mists and perfumes. Ananya being her vibrant self is a perfect match to the young and fun vibe of the brand. The TVC features our three bestselling fragrances: Hawaiian Rumba, Vanilla Vibes, and Trippin Mimosas, and how each of them captures a different kind of mood. We are confident that these perfume body mists will garner mass acceptance and love amongst all. Anvesha Sinha, Account Director at Famous Innovations, said With the continued intent to push a wide range of perfume body sprays from BodyLovin', the film, embodying the definition of fun, takes us through 3 uniquely different and funky worlds of Hawaiian Rumba, Vanilla Vibes, Trippin Mimosas - which are hero fragrances of this range. Using youth icon Ananya Panday in this association, we've got ourselves a film that speaks to Gen Z and millennials in the way that they understand best. Plum continues to be one of the fastest-growing brands in the new-age beauty space, thanks to its high-quality product lines, lovable brand personality, and strong omni-channel presence. Plum has steadily built its customer base on both online and offline platforms. In addition to being among the top new-age beauty brands online, the brand also now reaches over 250 towns and cities in India, through 1300+ assisted outlets, and over 10,000 unassisted outlets - growing month-on-month. In just 2 years, Plum BodyLovin' has become perhaps the most fun & vibrant bath & body brand in this side of the world. Durga Puja is a major festival in West Bengal and East India, where it is celebrated with much fervour. It is also a key market for Tata Motors. To celebrate the festival and the spirit of the people during Durga Puja, Tata Motors has launched a new TVC, where they have beautifully amalgamated the elements of Tata Motors cars (such as overall space on offer, safety, design, etc.) The film demonstrates the positive vibe and mood of celebration across the country during this festive season. The brand attributes and characteristics of Tata Motors, its culture and the New Forever brand promise has been beautifully captured and seamlessly integrated into the festive spirit of Durga Puja. Watch the ad film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjS4Q_np3KY In an exclusive chat with Adgully for their Talking Insights column, Rajan Amba, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Customer Care, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, speaks about this new campaign and how it weaves in the culture and spirit of West Bengal for this years Durga Puja festival. Whats the objective of this film and who are you targeting as your audience? This Durga Puja film is for people across the country. The film demonstrates the positive vibe and mood of celebration across the country during the festive season. However, as the film is extensively shot in Kolkata, where Durga Puja is one of the most celebrated festivals, the film is expected to have a larger connect with the people of Bengal. The brand attributes of Tata Motors, its culture and the New Forever brand promise has been seamlessly integrated into the festive spirit of Durga Puja. What was the brief given to the creative agency and how did they come up with the concept? Multiple agencies, FCB Ulka and WAT Consult have worked on creating this as a 360-degree campaign. The brief was to connect with the people of Bengal and celebrate the tradition, culture and warmth demonstrated by the people of Bengal. Tata Motors cars would be the means to communicate the love for one another. Tell us more about the film idea and what is the Bengali song trying to communicate for the brand Tata Motors? The #DriveTheGoodInYou campaign features superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee and is beautifully curated to connect with the audience in West Bengal. Through this campaign, the company promotes its New Forever range of cars and SUVs by urging customers to express their inner good. This message draws similarities with Durga Pujas overarching theme, which symbolises the victory of good over evil. Extensively shot in Kolkata, where the fervour of the festival can be experienced at its maximum, this vibrant film takes the viewers to the bylanes of the city, which are decked up with beautiful decorations and demonstrates the positive vibes and mood of celebration in West Bengal. How do you plan to leverage the film and whats going to be your media strategy? Whats your campaign duration? Within a week of its release, this film has received over 2 million views and an overwhelming response. We have undertaken a 360-degree route that includes a television commercial, print ads, outdoor advertisements, influencer outreach, radio ads, various initiatives on digital platforms, dealer connect programs and intriguing showroom decors. As an extension of the film, superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee has also recorded personalised messages for Tata Motors customers and will also be visiting one of the Kolkata showrooms to engage with customers. Quotient Ventures announced today that Mark McDonald will take over as the Chief Creative Officer of Mumbai based Vector Brand Solutions - a Brand-First Digital Agency which provides full funnel solutioning to brands who conduct their businesses online. He joins from Digitas where he was heading the creative function for almost 7 years. Commenting on this development, Joseph (Joe) George, Founder & CMD, Quotient Ventures said I am very happy and grateful to Mark for joining us in this journey to build out Vector. Our road map in terms of how and what we have set out to do is clear; and I am glad that Mark and I are 100% aligned on it. He brings on board exactly what we need in a leader at Vector passion & proficiency in brand building and expertise & experience in digital marketing Mark has worked in India, Singapore, and Australia with multi-national and local brands like Viacom 18, Nivea, Puma, Mondelez, Jeep, DBS Bank, Nestle, Amazon, Budweiser, Unilever, Boat Lifestyles, TataCliq, and Hotstar. Mark has extensive experience with data and technology-driven creative, content and experiences; and has had his work recognised at The One Show, The Clios, AWARD and the Caxtons. Added Mark Macdonald, Chief Creative Officer, Vector Brand Solutions Vectors passionate views and perspectives on what agencies could and should be doing for online brands is exactly what convinced me to be part of this journey. It plays to my beliefs, my interests, and my strengths; all of which I believe are required for brands trying to succeed in todays digital ecosystem. I was also very impressed with how the Group has built out Tilt so far; and I truly believe that Tilt and Vector will be unique industry benchmarks Tilt Brand Solutions and Vector Brand Solutions are subsidiaries of Quotient Ventures. While Vector is a Brand-First & Through-the-funnel digital agency, Tilt is a contemporary Brand & Communications consultancy. The TV, especially news television, ratings tangle has raised its ugly head again. Following the latest development of Zee Media exiting from BARC ratings, ripples will be felt across the industry in the coming days. Communicating about its decision, Zee in a statement issued said that it is a milestone for the whole news media industry. There are more than 5-8 million people associated with news and broadcasting industry at large, who get impacted adversely if incorrect reporting is published by the rating agencies, and it has been observed in last the few months that the news genre is being shown shrunk by BARC to extend the benefit to GEC and other genres at large, the communique alleged. Zee Media had raised its concern multiple times to BARC and had questioned the whole structure and transparency of its operations towards the news industry. The broadcaster complained that the rating agency has failed to rectify the news industrys and Zee Medias concerns. Also read: Zee Media pulls out its 14 news channels from BARC ratings Is being taken off DD Free Dish the prime reason for Zee Medias exit from BARC? Zee Media takes on Govt, moves Delhi HC against I&B Ministry MIB has delivered justice, say small broadcasters on simultaneous uplinking order Approval given to Zee Media to uplink in Ku-Band revoked How will the ad industry react? Where TV channels and ratings are concerned, discussions on TV advertising always follow. In this case, the industry is awaiting reactions from advertisers as well as industry bodies of the ad world. The pertinent question being asked at this moment is whether the Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA) will come up with a fresh advisory for its members in view of the latest development. It may be recalled that in April this year, ISA had issued an advisory to its members about advertising with those TV channels that have exited BARC. The advisory, dated April 27, 2022, stated that brands were only wasting money by giving ads to those channels which have opted out of the BARC ratings. Attention of advertisers is invited to the practice of some platforms which do not subscribe to the established system of measurement, as jointly agreed by all stakeholders. Advertisers may independently assess the situation and make an informed decision with respect to such platforms while dealing with advertisements, the ISAs advisory stated. The 70-year-old ISA is no ordinary industry body. Its members include some of Indias biggest advertisers, such as Reliance, Amazon, Airtel, etc., and as such any such advisories can have a direct bearing on the advertising revenues of TV channels. Will the ISA come up with a fresh advisory asking its members to stay away from TV channels exiting BARC? And should it issue such an advisory, the consequences could be major for the broadcasting industry, especially the news genre. Hence, it is a pertinent wait and watch. There seems to be no end in sight to the perennial ratings woes for the Indian television industry, with various stakeholders, at various points in time, expressing dissatisfaction with the way the ratings body functions. Even after the resumption of the news TV ratings by BARC after the TV ratings manipulation scam that jolted this industry in 2020 the controversy has refused to die down. Some factions of the broadcasters have continued to express their dissatisfaction with the ratings body and so much so that news broadcaster NDTV exited the ratings system in March 2022. SARANAC LAKE The Heart Network, on behalf of the North Country Chronic Disease Prevention Coalition, has received a grant from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration to support increased access to evidence-based chronic disease prevention and self-management services across the region. The Rural Health Network Development Planning Grant, awarded earlier this year, will also support Coalition efforts to prepare for contracting with health care payers such as insurance companies. This contracting ability will allow members of the Coalition to be reimbursed for the work they do and ensure that long-term efforts to provide more chronic disease prevention services will be sustainable. Our Coalition is working to build region-wide capacity to secure funding to support delivery of chronic disease prevention and self management services, said Ann Morgan, executive director of The Heart Network, which facilitates the Chronic Disease Prevention Coalition. The funding from this grant allows the Coalition to designate and prepare one organization to represent a network of program delivery partners and act as a single point of contracting with payers, so that health insurance companies dont have to negotiate contracts with multiple organizations. The HRSA Rural Health Network Development Planning Program promotes the planning and development of integrated rural health care networks with three primary goals: to achieve efficiencies; to expand access to, coordinate and improve the quality of basic health care services and associated health outcomes; and to strengthen the rural health care system as a whole. The North Country Chronic Disease Prevention Coalition is a collaborative group of healthcare providers, community-based organizations and other chronic disease prevention program stakeholders located in northeastern New York State. Formed in 2019, the Coalition aims to expand access to, coordinate, and improve the quality of chronic disease prevention in the region by building a community integrated health network with capacity to sustain ongoing, regular delivery of evidence-based chronic disease prevention and self-management services. Chronic disease rates in North Country counties remain high, especially for diabetes, Morgan said. The Coalition has made significant strides to offer more prevention and self-management services in community settings, but we still have a long way to go to make sure everyone who needs these services can access them. Early in 2022, the Coalition launched Get Healthy North Country, a website that acts as a one-stop shop for those looking to enroll in local workshops and wellness programs to help them prevent or better manage diabetes, high blood pressure or other chronic diseases. To learn more, visit gethealthnoco.org. The North Country Chronic Disease Prevention Coalition includes organizations in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Warren, Washington and St. Lawrence counties. The nearly three dozen member agencies represent a diverse array of health care interests, from direct care to public health and social services. To learn more about the Coalition, contact Ann Morgan at amorgan@heartnetwork.org or (518) 891-5855. The Heart Network collaborates with health systems and public health agencies across the North Country to design, develop, and implement strategies to decrease the incidence of cardiac disease, stroke, and related chronic disease. To learn more, visit heartnetwork.org. Photo at top: The Heart Network Facebook page photo. My wife and mother-in-law think that he'll come out of the autism to a degree, but I don't see it.They're basing this hope on my sister-in-law coming out of her shell to a degree, but she only has Aspberger's and not full-blown autism. On top of that, in the eight years I've known him I've only ever seen him get worse. It has me wondering what would have to happen before they finally admit he's dangerous.Does someone have to get seriously injured in one of his attacks? I'm trying not to resent him, but it's becoming increasingly difficult. His violent behavior towards everyone around him has me afraid for my daughter's safety. Because my wife is stuck watching him constantly, she can't get a job, and we're struggling financially. Any time I try to talk to her about the situation, I'm either met with hostility or silence. From The Washington Post, a frank look at the reality of autism for thousands of families. As the teens with autism age out this problem is going to grow. Cute little boys who punch are a far cry from adult men (and women) who can injure and even kill. Ask Trudy Steuernagel. We need better treatments so that our boys and girls, men and women on the spectrum receive proper care. We need to train law enforcement. And we need a national alarm to sound that the autism epidemic is very real. The coming years will bring grave challenges. Violent does not mean criminal - but is our system able to tell the difference? And how do we teach and protect our kids from the backlash? In Va. assault case, anxious parents recognize 'dark side of autism' The issue resonates not only with parents but with police. Every year, the International Association of Chiefs of Police picks one major issue to address at a national summit. In 2010, it was improving police response to people with mental illness and such conditions as autism. "It has been a huge and significant part of our conversation in the last couple of years," said John Firman, director of research for the organization. Firman, who participates in the Big Brother program, has a "little brother" with Asperger's. He said that when he goes out with the youngster, he sometimes wonders, "If anything would happen here, how would police deal with him?" Among the summit's recommendations, Firman said, were that all officers be trained in how to deal with such people and that police work closely with families and community organizations. Latson's case, however, was not a matter of a law enforcement officer being untrained, the prosecutor said. "This deputy has a 33-year-old mentally retarded child," Olsen said. "So the deputy is very sensitive to dealing with children with disabilities. He's lived it every day for the last 33 years." Pained parentsOn March 4, the jury found Latson guilty of four charges, including assault of a law enforcement officer and wounding in the commission of a felony. On May 19, he is scheduled to appear before Stafford County Circuit Court Judge Charles Sharp, who can accept or reduce the jury's recommended sentence.Last week, prosecutors tried Latson on a breaking-and-entering charge related to an incident in 2009. In that case, prosecutors said, Latson rang the doorbell at a teenager's home. When the teen opened the door, Latson hit him and followed him inside. Latson pleaded guilty to assault last year. On Thursday, he was found guilty of breaking and entering."I'm not here to try to paint a pretty story about my son," but he is not the violent individual that Stafford authorities have depicted, said Latson's mother, Lisa Alexander. "Neli is not a danger to society. He doesn't belong in jail. He belongs at home." Kamala cackles at Korea's DMZ. Braindead Biden speaks to ghosts. Wicked Witch Hillary curses America with lies. Halloween season must be here. Except the evil that Democrats do lasts all year long. Filled with racists, butchers, killers, liars, misanthropes, thieves, and snobs, the commie coalition of leftists in America pursues nothing but harm. Feasting on children, spreading fear and hate, they are the carnival horror show no sane person would dare permit through the gates. Wherever their power grows, Dems bring darkness (thanks, Green New Deal!), scary times, and frightening monsters. (Jeffrey Epstein didn't kill himself, after all.) It is clear that the commie coven has cast a spell upon the country, transfixing too many otherwise rational-thinking Americans into supporting wicked things. Who could be in favor of explicitly judging people by the color of their skin? Who could support secretly grooming innocent children to partake in sexual fantasies? Who could promote mutilating a child's body as if "transgenderism" were a sacred rite? Who could demand that babies be sacrificed on the altar of convenience? Who could preach that freedom is sinful and that obedience to government is divine? Who could maliciously scare billions with the unscientific doomsaying of imminent climate apocalypse? Who could steal food and fuel from the poor, while global elites choose who will be lucky enough to eat? Who could teach Westerners self-loathing on such a grand scale? Surely only very wicked people could do such things. Or people who have become lost in the delusions of malevolent magicians who seed discord, spread lies, feed on pain, despoil innocence, and thrive on hate. Leftism really is a curse because it twists minds into believing hideous things. Saying, "All lives matter," is somehow racist. Wanting to "Make America Great" somehow spreads hate. Treating people equally regardless of skin color promotes "white supremacy." Rewarding merit and hard work does, too. The less someone thinks of race, the more that person is condemned as "racist," while the more someone obsesses over race, the more "virtuous" that person is said to be. Only "racists" today treat people of all shades the same. What a sick world the commies have built. White adolescent males have been intentionally left behind. Their rates for academic achievement have plummeted, while their rates for alcohol and drug dependence continue to rise. They are lonely, without purpose, and suicidal as never before, yet the merciless Marxists beat them over the head with allegations of their miraculous "supremacy." There are no scholarships for "white boys." There are no clubs where they are encouraged to belong. They are not invited to succeed. Books, television shows, and movies relentlessly paint them as the villains. The federal bureaucracy treats them as potential "domestic threats." The stories of their ancestors are rewritten as shameful tales best to forget. They have become the eternal whipping post for the hideously racist political left. Where has compassion gone? To where has the dream of a colorblind world vanished? Why must young innocents be punished for perceived "sins" committed in the distant past? Who could possibly justify looking through a person's character and seeing instead nothing but oppressive hues? Only a race-obsessed commie coalition seeking to divide. Only hateful demagogues who maintain power by teaching others to despise. In America, former president but lifelong Marxist Barack Obama can slander proponents of secure borders as racists, and nobody bats an eye. Babbling Vice President Harris can promise to disburse federal funds for victims of Hurricane Ian based on Americans' skin color, and corporate news talking heads applaud. Nancy Pelosi can justify millions of illegal aliens as necessary for picking crops, and America's most race-obsessed pretend not to hear. White victims can be violently targeted on the street by criminal gangs, and Democrat mayors cover up their race-based crimes. Beloved statues and monuments honoring the world historical achievements of America's Founding Fathers can be defiled and toppled, and no arrests are ever made. A white male waving the American flag or singing the National Anthem too proudly, however, is condemned for not proactively apologizing for the color of his skin. Hidden "racist" intent is seen lurking in every corner of society. Americans insufficiently dedicated to racial grievance are "canceled" for imaginary sins. Those unwilling to rewrite history are punished. Those who refuse to believe in "woke" delusions are derided. That's how the left helps evil win. It has been said often that a culture can be judged by how it treats its most vulnerable, and by any measure the West will soon be harshly judged. It was not enough to legalize abortion while promising to keep it rare. The killing of children had to be embraced, then universalized, then celebrated, and finally used as an absurd "human right" cudgel against its opponents. It was not enough to redefine the ancient institution of marriage when destroying the traditional family was the Marxists' ultimate goal. It was never about preaching "tolerance" for others when the political left steadfastly refuses to leave God-fearing Americans alone. Young students forced to endure Marxist indoctrination may be surprised to learn that a short time ago there was no confusion over biological sex. Nowhere in the world did any culture, scientific body, or human rights group find it controversial to believe in the existence of biologically-defined women and men. Parents had no trouble distinguishing their daughters from their sons. Schools had no need to invent hundreds of "genders" to account for each human's uniqueness. Medicine had not been so politicized as to turn basic genetics upside-down. Only a few years of propaganda and brainwashing, though, were sufficient for thousands of years of human history to be tossed out. What unbelievable witchcraft it is to transform a basic fact of life into a divisive curse for argument and division. How sinister it is to teach toddlers outright lies. How barbaric it is to encourage boys and girls to take life-altering hormones and undergo irreversible surgeries before ever growing up. What ghoulish monsters the Marxists are for mangling bodies, manipulating psyches, and ruining lives. As if teaching racism, butchering children, and killing babies were not enough, the left's horror tale is not complete without the frightful terrors of global warming. So committed they are to centralized government power and so obsessed they are with unchecked population growth that the Marxists would rather terrify the world with visions of destruction than let children grow up with hope. To tell kids that their parents are killing them with "fossil" fuels. To spread outrageous propaganda that the world does not have long to live. What sinister intent inspires such apocalyptic prevarications? What kind of evil people spread such fear and dread? It takes a certain kind of monster to intentionally hurt and scare the weak. It takes a certain kind of villain to terrorize the poor. It takes awfully racist people to obsess over the color of children's skin. It takes misanthropic Marxists to spin lies of planetary horror. Yet the evil that men do succeeds only when good men choose to remain silent. So speak up loudly every day. Break the leftists' spells. Chase the wicked far away. And never be compliant. Image via Max Pixel. Other than a well-fought win over rival Navy, the United States Air Force Academy had a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad week. First, came the story that the Academy gave diversity training to cadets encouraging them to stop using such patently offensive words as mom and dad. This was followed up closely by a story that the Academy was promoting a fellowship that was open to just about everyone, but straight white men need not apply. Finally, the school that used to be underpinned by its notable lack of tolerance for lying, cheating or stealing was put on two-years probation by the NCAA, complete with a rather long list of punishments, for apparently cheating at recruiting. What ties these three stories together is the complete breakdown of values at the school, which are reflective of the breakdown in values across the military. Both my wife and I graduated from USAFA in the 1990s. At the time, the schools values were integrity, service, and excellence. Cadets were encouraged to put their classmates and country ahead of themselves. Even the smallest lie or anything that could be construed as cheating, to include poorly documented homework, was a one-way ticket home. Those values have been turned upside down in the schools commitment to the militarys new value system of diversity above all. For the Air Force-Navy game, the Falcons wore their new uniforms honoring the Space Force. Semper Supra, which means always above, was displayed prominently where names are normally shown. The motto is somewhat ironic since in todays military, thats where diversity and inclusion rank in the priority list, always above and eclipsing everything else. All other values are subservient to it. 2019 US Air Force Academy graduation (public domain) While the element of the diversity training that suggested cadets should refrain from using words like mom and dad got most of the attention, the bigger problem is the overall philosophy that pits people into tribes and places the individual over the group. We are now suggesting that we should be conscious of color and value people for their uniqueness. In other words, individuality based on color of skin takes precedence over forming a common bond across the unit. This is a complete reversal of the militarys traditional values. Military service is no longer about Service Members subordinating their own desires to be part of a cohesive group that is serving something greater than themselves. Instead, it puts individuals in the spotlight and then values some higher than others based upon nothing more than their skin color or sexual desires. Weve gone from Martin Luther Kings dream of a colorblind society 180 degrees in the other direction to where we no longer judge anyone based upon the content of character, but instead focus almost entirely on the color of skin. This has gradually strangled the militarys values. General Douglas MacArthurs famous duty, honor, country approach cannot co-exist alongside such a demented worldview that is both tribal and individualistic. In February, all the cadets were forced to sit through a lesson from George Takei, a strident promoter of the lefts new religion, to kick off their National Character and Leadership Symposium. When I was at the Academy, the school welcomed Christian and religious ministry groups and partnered with them in helping to build a strong values foundation in the cadets. Today, the cadets get the man who once called Clarence Thomas a clown in blackface. A service academy would never dare put up a speaker who showed such utter contempt for a Democrat president as Takei routinely shows towards all Republicans, to include the former president and vice president. Americans are taking notice. In 2022, USAFA saw a 28 percent decline in the number of applicants. When all was said and done, there were only 1,775 qualified candidates for that years class, a staggeringly low number considering that the Academy needs to offer relatively close to that number of appointments to fill each class. This tracks with the broader recruiting challenge the entire military is now facing. While military leaders regularly meet to discuss this problem, they rarely zero in on the obvious issue. Parents in the areas where the military typically is most successful recruiting no longer encourage their children to join a hyper-politicized military that no longer shares their values. My wife and I did not encourage our three kids to join the Air Force, which is somewhat telling considering we are both retired Air Force officers who once bled blue. Many of our friends and classmates feel the same. The military has always had its greatest success recruiting from the parts of the country where patriotism runs highest and military service has also always been a family affair, with kids emulating their parents service. But why would anyone want their sons and daughters to serve in a military that holds their values in contempt? When youve lost the parents and influencers, youve lost most of the kids. It isnt rocket science. While the military maintains its traditional values on paper, they barely give them even lip service at this point, but the value of diversity is talked about ad nauseum. Anyone who tries to return the military to the values that underpinned it for generations would likely be slandered as an extremist and pushed out the door. In response to the Academy getting called out on its diversity training, the USAFA Superintendent said that our American diversity is a strategic advantage that opens the door to creative solutions, providing a competitive edge in air, space and cyberspace. Interesting choice of words in the very week that the Armys first transgender officer chose the rather creative solution of trying to give confidential medical information to Russia, a story that is mostly absent from all but conservative media. Almost all military leaders parrot those same nonsensical talking points. Its practically a job requirement at this point. But diversity is a neutral concept. It is certainly not bad, but it is also not good, or even a value. The blind worship of diversity as the highest good is a cancer. Imagine if we demanded equal representation based on race and sexual orientation in sports? What you would end up with would be something far less than the ideal and it certainly would not be viewed as a strategic advantage. This is a national security crisis on many levels. For one, the military is replacing the type of people who believe in service and country with those who dont. That wont end well. When the militarys very mission requires asking people to potentially give up their lives in service to their country, the values that underpin it matter. It is hard to imagine anyone who will be willing to die for these new values that encourage tribalism and elevate the individual over the unit, with a side of grievance and resentment thrown in. Our military leaders like to comfort each other, even as China surpasses the U.S. in some military capability areas, with the fact that our people are better. They shouldnt. What made our people better were the values they held. With those values being shredded, that advantage is also disappearing. The other problem is that every minute spent on this charade is a minute not spent on the true national security threat, which is China. Right now, it is hard to overestimate the number of minutes that every command and leader in the military is wasting in furtherance of this false religion. Pacific Air Forces, the lead Air Force command charged with planning and leading any air operations in Chinas region, lists diversity as its top priority because of course they do. If we ever have to pit the politicized military we are building against China, the result may very well be catastrophic. If the military is to succeed going forward, it needs to return to the values that made it great. And that will not happen as long as Democrats hold power. If and when Republicans are back in power, they need to do a lot more than outlaw critical race theory. They need to dismantle the diversity and inclusion infrastructure in the military. No more toxic diversity commissars or indoctrination sessions. Until that happens, the problem cannot be fixed, and the military will continue to face a values crisis that impacts recruiting and readiness at every level. Now is the time to juxtapose the reaction to the hijab in Iran with the attitude of the Western left. For an "improperly" worn hijab, 22-year-old Mahsa Amini was beaten to death, sparking massive protests revealing deep anger against the Iranian regime. A photo showed Hadis Najafi, another 20-year-old, tying her hair into a ponytail before joining the protests. She had filmed herself dancing on a beach, pirouetting with swirling hair, so inflammatory to the mullahs. A spray of bullets felled her. A woman eating in a restaurant without a hijab was arrested. In striking contrast, the hijab, the symbol of women's oppression in Iran, is the same piece of cloth the Western left considers "empowering." Woke companies like American Eagle and Nike hawk hijabs to woke consumers. Nike could not resist virtue-signaling, saying its Nike Pro Hijab would "advance inclusive conversation around hijabs." Surely, an "inclusive" conversation must extend to the left's efforts to encourage the hijab in Western cultural and political life. Silence toward the hijab protests in Iran Linda Sarsour, Ilhan Omar, and Rashida Tlaib are high-profile Democrats, vocal defenders of Muslims' rights, and constant critics of Israel. In an article, Phyllis Chesler excoriated them for not speaking out for the women of Iran: Sarsour and Omar continue to glorify their wearing of the hijab as a protest against white racism and alleged "Islamophobia." None of the three women offered their own words in support of the protesters. They merely retweeted the briefest of remarks by others. All three, who are ordinarily so vocal, were suddenly tongue-tied. Anyone familiar with the ways of the left would know that its orthodoxy requires promotion of the hijab. Tellingly, President Biden's "solidarity" with the Iranian women did not include the word "hijab," nor any mention of Islam. The E.U. and the Council of Europe have tried to foist the hijab on Europeans In September 2022, in a decision that can be explained only by the left-leaning E.U.'s ideological insularity, arrogance, and incompetence, and after the Iran protests had started, the E.U. showed a young girl in a hijab promoting its Erasmus programme. Outrage prompted its withdrawal. In 2021, Europe's top human rights body, the Council of Europe, pulled a poster showing the split image of one women wearing a hijab and one not, with the slogan "beauty is in diversity as freedom is in hijab." The American left finds a vivid portrayal of the burqa unacceptable in the U.S. The burqa triggered a debate in the Democratic primary in New York's 12th Congressional District in 2021. Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D) had worn a burqa on the House floor, railing against the treatment of women in Afghanistan. After the disastrous U.S. pull-out from Afghanistan, the Taliban reimposed their tyranny on Afghan women. The hijab-wearing Rana Abdelhamid, a progressive, founder of Hijabis of New York and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, challenged Maloney in the primary, criticizing her 2001 decision to wear a burqa, stating: Maloney ... wore a blue burqa on the House floor to advocate for the invasion of Afghanistan, under this very Islamophobic narrative that Afghan women needed to be saved. It clearly escaped Abdelhamid that Afghan women want to be saved, pleading, "We want the world to hear us, and we want our rights to be saved." The United Nations, too, would be surprised to learn that its attempts to help Afghan women are "very Islamophobic." Rather, Abdelhamid's motives were murkier. She wanted to dissuade other American infidels from having the gall of Maloney, a white woman (albeit a Democrat), from wearing the dehumanizing and grotesque burka on TV that could and emphatically should arouse revulsion in viewers. Never mind that the burqa is an ambulatory prison, with an elevated risk of disease and social exclusion. For the socialist Abdelhamid, the burka is exempt from any negative portrayal in non-Muslim lands. The rules of the Congress made way for the hijab The left's genuflection to the hijab for reasons of "inclusiveness" is limitless. In 2019, the Democrats changed an 18-year-old rule disallowing the wearing of religious headdress in Congress. The impulse behind this change was Ilhan Omar with the cooperation of Nancy Pelosi and Jim McGovern (D-Mass.). Omar celebrated lifting the ban, saying it was "more inclusive for all." The world's first "feminist government" in Sweden dutifully wore the hijab in Iran In 2017, Swedish female officials, belonging to the world's first self-declared "feminist government," wore headscarves during a trip to Iran. They defended themselves from criticism, saying, "Failing to do so would have broken the law" and the "only other option would be to send an all-male delegation." These "feminists" could not cobble together enough collective spine and demand that Iran retract its conditions, failing which no agreement could be signed. The hijab was insisted upon, and woke leftist Western women complied. Following the Christchurch terror attacks on Muslims, New Zealand's prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, could have chosen to hug Muslim women without the hijab. But as a progressive, it was mandatory for her to wear one and give it wider currency. The left used the hijab as a symbol of democratic defiance in the 2017 Women's March The 2017 Women's March saw a profusion of colored hijabs in the company of pink pussy hats and rainbow flags. They morphed into what else? an effervescent example of Trump Derangement Syndrome. The march also inspired Gisele Fetterman, wife of the mayor of Braddock, a certain John Fetterman, now a Democrat Senate hopeful, to dream up what else? hijabs for Barbies. Mrs. Fetterman thought it "wrong" there were no dolls for the "mostly Muslim" refugee population and teamed up with a Saudi Arabian woman to create "Hello Hijab" dolls. Has any of our "journalists" asked John Fetterman what he now thinks of his wife's doll creations as anti-hijab protests rage in Iran? The hijab has links to violence, crime, and terrorism around the world The hijab is neither benign nor only a women's issue. In Nigeria, a Muslim group threatened barring female Muslim law students from wearing the hijab "a dangerous situation capable of snowballing into a religious crisis whose consequences no one can predict." In Malawi, which is 13. 8 percent Muslim, the "Hijab Task Force" threatened to burn down Christian schools, angered by the refusal to allow female Muslim students to wear a hijab in school. In India, two men threatened to kill a judge who had upheld a ban on Muslim female students from wearing the hijab. In Mumbai, another Muslim killed his Hindu wife for not wearing the hijab. In Pakistan, a hijab-wearing woman blew herself up, killing the Chinese director of the Confucius Institute. Just observe the world of Islam. You will know that the hijab is a tool for many Muslims that transforms Muslim women and their clothing into weapons for civilizational conquest. As self-defense is the first and an irrevocable law of nature, we must protect our Judeo-Christian heritage and defeat the left's unceasing efforts to mainstream the hijab in the U.S. Image via Pexels. This is the tale of two laptops, one tale definitely damaging to the Democrats, one potentially so. What they have in common is that the FBI did its damnedest to bury both. For all the hubbub about the Hunter Biden laptop, there has been little talk about the laptop owned by DNC data analyst Seth Rich. In the way of brief summary, the 27-year-old Rich was beaten and then shot by unknown assailants on a Washington, D.C. street in the early morning hours of July 10, 2016. His attackers appear to have taken nothingnot his wallet, not his phone, not his watch. Seth Rich (photo credit: Linkedin via The Epoch Times) Richs laptop was in his apartment not far from the scene of his murder. For six years, its fate has remained a mystery. In less than two weeks, however, thanks to a recent federal court decision, the FBI will be compelled to share its secrets, presuming there are any secrets and presuming too those secrets have not been scrubbed. The FBIs handling of the Hunter Biden laptop is well enough known. The FBI took the laptop into possession in October 2019. If the New York Post had not revealed its existence and some of its highly incriminating contents in October 2020, the public might not be aware of it even today. FBI whistleblowers and Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley have pushed the Biden laptop back into the news. In a July 25 letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and FBI Director Christopher Wray, Grassley noted that the FBI allegedly developed information in 2020 about Hunter Bidens criminal financial and related activity, but FBI Headquarters improperly discredit[ed] negative Hunter Biden information as disinformation and caused investigative activity to cease. The agent who blocked the Biden investigation from proceeding, Tim Thibault, resigned under a cloud a month ago. The FBIs M.O. on the Seth Rich laptop appears scarily similar. Its contents, like those of the Biden laptop, could have major geopolitical implications. Two weeks after Richs death, international man of mystery Julian Assange raised the interest level in his murder by strongly suggesting on Dutch TV that Rich was his source for the DNC emails then stirring up the hornets nest known as the Democratic Party. Assange subsequently offered a $20,000 reward to find Richs killer. Three days before the November 2016 election, Assange reportedly told liberal media analyst Ellen Ratner that Rich was, in fact, his source for the DNC emails. Soon after Trump's inauguration legendary investigative journalist Sy Hersh cited an FBI report confirming Assange's claim. Later that year, DNC head Donna Brazile dedicated her book, Hacks, to Rich and questioned whether the Russians had "played some part in his unsolved murder." A half-century or so ago, journalists would have been all over a story so rich in political intrigue. Not in 2016. Despite the stakesor perhaps because of themno major publication or network except for Fox News has even attempted to solve the still unsolved murder. The media quickly settled on a botched robbery scenario and scolded those who dug deeper. Fox News tried, and its execs rather wish they hadn't. Fox got sued into submission by Richs parents. In fact, just about every independent investigator that took up this case has been sued or cancelled or dismissed as a conspiracy theorist. Among those sued for his efforts was Ed Butowsky, a Texan financial advisor and occasional TV commentator. In January 2017, he recorded a phone conversation with the profane and refreshingly candid Hersh, a Pulitzer Prize winner. It was Hersh who alerted Butowsky and others to the FBI involvement in this seeming street crime. According to Hersh, the D.C. Police called in the FBI when its cyber unit failed to open Rich's computer. The FBI's "hot s---" cyber team succeeded and filed a report. As Hersh related, the report detailed how Rich "submitted a series of juicy emails from the DNC" to the WikiLeaks drop box and asked Assange for money in exchange for more emails. Hersh, however, had not seen the report itself. He cited a source on the inside who had been "unbelievably accurate" in providing Hersh information in the past. Attorney Ty Clevenger, who represented Butowsky, has been working with Texas man Brian Huddleston to find out what the FBI knows. Clevenger began by filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) suits on behalf of Huddleston regarding Richs involvement in DNC e-mail leaks as early as August 2017. Judge Amos Mazants 53-page memorandum opinion and order documents each phase of FBI stonewalling from denial to the reluctant acknowledgement of 20,000 relevant files. Had it not been for Huddlestons persistence, writes Mazant, it is likely that the failure to locate over 20,000 pages of potentially responsive records would have gone unnoticed. The FBI denies Hershs version of events. Michael Seidel, an FBI official, contends in a declaration to the court that the FBI offered to assist the MPD with its investigation; however, the MPD declined the offer. As a consequence, the FBI did not open an investigation into the death of Seth Rich nor did it provide investigative or technical assistance to the MPD. The FBI concedes that it has the contents of Richs laptop in its possession but also claims that it had no involvement in the extraction of the data. An unnamed confidential source, Seidel contends, provided that data to the Bureau. Not having extracted the data itself, the FBI cannot validate whether the information in its possession was actually on Richs laptop at the time of his death. In a curious parallel, three months before Richs murder the DNC rejected the FBIs help with the alleged hack of its computers, and then, too, the FBI rolled over. DNC staff alerted a DNC attorney at Perkins Coie, and he, in turn, recommended a private cyber security firm called CrowdStrike to clean up the mess. The Soviet-born Dmitri Alperovitch, CrowdStrike co-founder and chief technology officer, identified two hacker groups, both working for the Russian government, as the culprits. The media and the FBI accepted Alperovitchs word as gospel. Although claiming only a superficial knowledge of the content of Richs laptop, the FBI argued that his survivors have a privacy interest in withholding that information from the public. Mazant ruled otherwise: The Court finds the FBI improperly withheld this information under FOIA. He ordered the FBI to produce the information it possesses related to Seth Richs laptop and responsive to Plaintiffs request with 14 days of this order. In the movie version, the Washington Post newsroom is abuzz with the information contained in the Mazant memorandum. Reporters would want to know, at a minimum, who on the MPD rejected the FBIs offer to help, why did the FBI so meekly accept the rejection, how could the FBI have been so indifferent to the laptops contents especially given its five-year fight to deep-six it, and who, finally, was the FBIs confidential source? In the real-world version, unfortunately, the Washington Post shames those who ask such questions. Three weeks after Richs murder, the FBI opened operation Crossfire Hurricane, the investigation into potential Trump-Russia collusion. This investigation would consume the FBI for the next several years. If Richand not the Russianshad proved to be the Wikileaks source, the whole Trump-Russia narrative would implode, and the fallout would singe half of official Washington. In short, the FBI had even more motive to suppress the contents of the Rich laptop than it did the Biden one. FBI techs have had six years to scrub the data. Pollyanna herself would be downright skeptical of retrieving anything of value. That conceded, the FBI went to considerable length in its declarations to distance itself from the contents of the laptop. No sane person would bet on this outcome, but those contents would make for a wonderful October surprise. To learn more, see www.cashill.com The medical communitys approach to COVID broke down along partisan lines: Democrats were in favor of masks and lockdowns, claimed that no existing drugs could save COVID patients, and went all-in on vaccines. Republicans questioned masks efficacy, pointed out that lockdowns didnt improve health but were destroying peoples lives, looked to affordable pre-existing drugs for treatment, and urged caution for the vaccines. Time has favored the Republicans views. Still, California just added a law effectively saying, Embrace Democrat COVID views or lose your license. Heres the thing, though: with COVID in the rearview mirror, this is about much more than COVID itself. In the almost three years since COVID entered America, weve learned that Democrats were mostly wrong about everything related to COVID and Republicans were mostly right. 1. The cloth and paper masks they imposed on everyone (especially children) are ineffective, as even the CDC concedes, although it tries to obfuscate that fact. 2. Lockdowns made no difference regarding COVID, although they did help destroy the economy and destroy hundreds of thousands of American lives. (On the flip side, shipping COVID-infected patients to vulnerable elderly communities made a huge and horrible difference.) 3. Vaccines are proving to be extremely dangerous, something the CDC has also been forced to concede. 4. The jury is a little bit out on medicines because the American medical establishment has bent itself to proving that hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin will not treat COVID. However, it does appear that, for both ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine, if patients receive them early enough after a COVID diagnosis, they will make a beneficial difference. (Experiences in both India and Brazil back up these studies.) That early intervention is key. Recall that the Democrat medical mantra was that people should do nothing about their COVID until they were at deaths door, at which point they should go to a hospital to get, first, ventilation, which damaged peoples lungs and, eventually, Remdesivir, which damaged peoples livers. Image: Physician and patient by DC Studio. These were all hot topics a couple of years ago. Now, though, COVID is in the rearview mirror of American life, especially because its done what all viruses do: Become both endemic and less virulent. Treatments and societal changes are no longer being fought in the media and the public sphere. Why, then, did California decide now to put into effect a law that will drive from practice those doctors who will prescribe early hydroxychloroquine or ivermectin treatment for COVID? Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill that will subject doctors to discipline and possible suspension of their licenses to practice for spreading misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic to patients, one of the most controversial pieces of pandemic legislation lawmakers sent to his desk. AB 2098 by Assemblyman Evan Low, D-Campbell, was co-sponsored by the California Medical Association to tamp down COVID-19 misinformation, often spread through social media, promoting untested or ineffective treatments and cures and questioning the effectiveness of face masks and vaccines. The law is obviously a joke because, as noted, even the CDC has turned on face masks and vaccines. However, the law makes sense if you realize that it has nothing to do with COVID risks for California residents. Instead, its a way to identify and destroy physicians who are less likely to be on board with other modern medical initiatives. These include: 1. Using hormones and mutilating surgery on the growing population of Americans (especially children) who have been brainwashed into believing that any dissatisfaction they feel with their bodies or their lives is tied to their gender identity. 2. Arguing that gun control is necessary for childrens health. 3. Pushing for medical care to be rationed based upon race. 4. And most importantly of all, embracing socialized medicine. The big secret of socialized medicine, of course, is that while people have free access to medical care, their actual outcomes are significantly worse than under non-socialized systems. Plus, socialized systems have a nasty habit of devolving into euthanasia, which is cheaper than treatment. It's to be hoped that Californias new law about COVID misinformation and doctors is successfully challenged in court. Otherwise, expect it to be used aggressively to remove from practice any California doctors who arent on board with so-called transgenderism, gun control, race-based medicine, and socialized medicine. Gupta said the company is aligned with the government's vision of having a gas-based economy wherein the share of natural gas in the energy mix is to more than double to 15 per cent by 2030. (Representational Image/DC) NEW DELHI: Seasoned finance professional and an old public sector hand Sandeep Kumar Gupta on Monday took over as the chairman and managing director of GAIL (India) Ltd, the nation's largest gas utility. Gupta, who previously was Director (Finance) at Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), replaces Manoj Jain, who superannuated on August 31. Soon after joining, "he addressed the employees of GAIL and recognized the balanced business portfolio of the company built over time and (its) overall contribution to the development of the natural gas sector in the country," a company statement said. Gupta said the company is aligned with the government's vision of having a gas-based economy wherein the share of natural gas in the energy mix is to more than double to 15 per cent by 2030. He exuded confidence in the outlook of the company which is professing relentlessly its growth path in the natural gas value chain, the statement said. The government headhunter, Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) had in June selected Gupta, 56, for the post of chairman and managing director of GAIL. He took the charge after the Cabinet Committee on Appointments (ACC) approved of his selection. A commerce graduate and Chartered Accountant by education, Gupta has more than 31 years of working experience at IOC, the nation's largest oil refining and fuel marketing company. He had been Director (Finance) of IOC since August 3, 2019. With experience in handling almost the entire gamut of finance and accounts activities, his tenure as Director (Finance) witnessed two extreme volatile global oil price cycles and the deregulation of petrol and diesel prices in India. At IOC, his responsibilities also included financial planning and analysis, corporate finance and treasury, international trade and pricing. He is also on the board of IOC Middle East FZE, Dubai and Indian Oil Petronas Pvt Ltd. Gupta will have a term till February 2026. GAIL is India's largest gas transmission and gas marketing company, with a 14,502-kilometre gas pipeline network and a capacity of 206 million standard cubic meters a day. Its natural gas pipeline network covers 21 states. It holds around 70 per cent share of the gas-transmission network and more than 50 per cent share of natural gas sales in India. The tactic described as the October surprise holds the juiciest fruits of opposition research until late in the election cycle. The key is to save the reveal until it's too late to elicit an effective response. With the modern plethora of media outlets ready, willing, and able to leak campaign secrets or propaganda, the problem has been to keep the scoop under wraps long enough to limit the target's response. With the pitiful slate of Democrat candidates and the party's failed policies wreaking havoc on our nation and the economy, it seems the Dems have been emptying their bag of tricks prematurely. You still know it's coming soon even though those wacky Dems have already launched their September surprise. And their August surprise. And their June and July surprises. They would have a daily surprise if they could keep their weak sisters in the media up to speed. They need something like the leak of the Supreme Court reversal of the Roe decision to yield a sufficient "surprise." They've already pedaled their Student Loan Forgiveness surprise bomb. If Merrick Garland could have held his horses a bit longer, the FBI's raid on Donald Trump's home at Mar-a-Lago could have been the perfect October surprise. Launched prematurely, the raid has been exposed and turned into a liability for the Dems. Maybe it's a bit nostalgic to call these mostly fictional bombshells surprises anymore. The biggest surprise would be for the Democrats to run honest campaigns and lighten up on the slander and libel. Here are some suggestions for the Democrats, who seem woefully short of them these days. But remember, the surprises could come from either side of the aisle: Now, if Mitt Romney, Liz Cheney, and Lisa Murkowski were to announce that they were joining the Democrat party, it would be news, but certainly no surprise. Likewise with the possibility of Joe Manchin turning Republican. He's damaged goods and no longer a possible asset: anyone who could get slickered by Feeble Joe Biden couldn't possibly be of much use. Maybe Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi could convince one of their cafeteria Catholic supportive priests to serve them Communion in an abortion facility. Or an enterprising media outlet could dig up an old video featuring Kamala Harris and Willie Brown. Joe Biden could try to claw back the blacks he's losing by issuing an executive order starting the payment of reparations to the supposed living descendants of the victims of slavery. Maybe a leak from a "prominent researcher" suggesting that Donald Trump could be Patient One for the MonkeyPox. Would it surprise you if Merrick Garland ordered a raid on the home of Supreme Court justice Neil Gorsuch, the man who filled the vacancy on the Court that Garland is certain rightfully belongs to him? The Biden administration could announce the retirement of Karine Jean-Pierre as White House spokesperson, to be replaced by John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who will be retiring from the race for the open Senate seat in Pennsylvania. Lord knows, Dr. Jill Biden can provide a fashion surprise at any time. I'm afraid to speculate what fashion emergency she will come up with next. The real surprise would be if Joe Biden got something right. In any case, be aware. It is October, and there will be surprises, more than likely emanating from the Democrat party and amplified by their accomplices in the state-run media. You could set your calendar by it. Ralph Alter is an art dealer and regular contributor to American Thinker. Image: Public Domain. An in-kind political donation is defined as a non-cash gift made to a nonprofit organization, including goods, services, time, and expertise. I submit that, under this definition, Dr. Anthony Fauci is quite possibly the largest in-kind donor to the Democratic National Committee. Fauci, however, has been clever in the manner of his assistance to the Democrats. After all, when you criticize the good doctor, he reminds you that you are criticizing science itself. Although Fauci has repeatedly insisted that he is not a political person, the evidence clearly indicates otherwise. In 2020, he strongly opposed the Trump campaigns use of a video clip showing him praising the administrations response to the COVID-19 pandemic; yet he allowed the DNC to use his photo in political ads online without a word of protest or opposition. In fact, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (a fundraising organization for Democrat congressional candidates) ran online ads reading Thank you, Dr. Fauci! But what were they thanking him for? In January 2021, I argued that they were slyly thanking him for his push for a near-total shutdown of the American economy in 2020 (which coincidentally happened to be a presidential election year). Image: Anthony Fauci (edited). YouTube screen grab. American Thinker was among the first to publish pieces that pointed this out. Other news/opinion outlets followed with similar stories. Heres one from Just the News and another one from Axios. Oh, well. I suppose imitation of American Thinker pieces is the sincerest of flattery. Moving on to 2022, youll find that the DCCC is continuing to run the same Thank you, Dr. Fauci online ad that was run in the 2020 presidential election cycle. Perhaps they hope that Fauci could pull some more lockdown shenanigans to enable another mail-in election. Unfortunately for them, time is now short. The Monkeypox emergency has fizzled, as has the latest COVID variant BA.2.75. Despite the attempted alarmism in Natures online headline, the subtext admits that hospitalization rates are low so far. Marc Elias must be disappointed. In 2020, Elias was the election law attorney who effectively used Faucis recommended lockdown to persuade elected officials in several swing states to mail out unrequested ballots to all registered voters. Fortunately for our democracy, these election-rigging shenanigans arent panning out for Democrats in 2022. Voters who were alarmed by the shady tactics that the Dems used to circumvent voting rules in 2020 are far more vigilant. The ballot drop boxes that Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg funded in the last election will be heavily monitored, and several states have severely restricted their use. Conservative voters have, in effect, said, Fool us once, shame on you; Fool us twice, shame on us. In the words of The Whos classic song, lets hope we wont get fooled again. Michael A. Bertolone, M.S. is a freelance writer in Rochester, NY. His other articles can be found at American Thinker and Substack. In Brazil, radical leftists thought they had a presidential victory in the bag. They were in for a surprise. Although their candidate, Luiz Inacio "Lula" da Silva, actually got the most votes in Sunday's contest, it wasn't enough for an outright victory, so now they're headed for a runoff with incumbent conservative President Jair Bolsonaro. The left-leaning Guardian tried to explain it out: At the very least, they hoped for a commanding margin and a sense of momentum going into a runoff between the two. And progressives around the world were watching for an emphatic repudiation of Bolsonaro's presidency that would signal that the forces of extremism were in retreat. But it hasn't worked out that way. Instead, Lula won 48% of votes, roughly in line with polls but Bolsonaro did much better than expected, taking 43%, and his supporters also outperformed polls in state and senate races. Lula is expected to take most votes from the minor candidates who now drop out, and should be favourite to win in the second round on 30 October but the road to victory looks rockier than it did on Sunday. The stakes could hardly be higher. So now they're bawling about it, and leftist pundits are characterizing the result as "disappointing," "deflating," and "massively dispiriting." Yet their leftist candidate, Luiz Inacio "Lula" da Silva, actually got the most votes. They're howling as if their candidate had lost. They thought Bolsonaro was a goner. They thought they were entitled to seeing that from voters. They didn't, so now they're blubbering. The catharsis that Lula's supporters had hoped for failed to materialise. "It's massively dispiriting for the left," said Tom. "And really surprising not in terms of Lula's vote, which is in line with what everyone thought, but in terms of Bolsonaro's, which is significantly higher. The pollsters got that badly wrong. I went to Lula's rally, and people were crying, or in a state of shock." That mood of disappointment for the left was heightened by victory for Bolsonaro's allies in 19 of the 27 available Senate seats, as well as a strong showing in the lower house. Apparently, the Bolsonaro side surprised them by its willingness to fight the leftists hard: "It's been pretty toxic," [Guardian Latin American correspondent Tom Phillips] said. "I first covered an election here in 2006, and I've never seen this level of bitterness before. Bolsonaro treats elections as wars. A lot of people on the left have been frightened one Lula supporter said to me on Saturday that it's the first time in my life I've been scared to put a sticker on my car." Really? Apparently, it's a committed bunch out there supporting Bolsonaro, with some willing to play rough. That had to have been a shock, because the left is used to employing those hard tactics, and up until now has expected the right to act the way it always does, which is to say that it will roll over and embrace the left's framings and narratives, always retreating a little to keep peace in the family. So the fact that some Bolsonaro-supporters have refused the old status quo has rattled the left's system. With Lula taking 48% of the vote, and Bolsonaro taking a surprise 43%, there's actually a chance that Bolsonaro could win the election finale on October 30 if he can rally enough of the third-party voters, moderate Lula voters, and abstainers to come to the polls. The odds look tough for that, given that Latin America is in a left-wing trend right now, but there is definitely a chance it could happen. In Latin America, there are always one or two nations that defy the trends, and now that the failures of the left are getting obvious regionally in Chile, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Mexico, with vastly unpopular presidents, not to mention, the leftist hellholes such as Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba, the trend could be due to reverse. Brazil trended less with Latin America in any case than it did with the U.S. when it elected "Tropical Trump" Bolsonaro in 2018. President Trump gave Bolsonaro his hearty endorsement in this election, too. With Lula now cribbing the old Joe Biden line about "unity" and voters by this time knowing the value of that, it may be that Bolsonaro could eke out a victory if the country trends with the U.S. again. It's noteworthy that the expat vote tended to trend with Bolsonaro, except in a few very deep blue cities in the U.S. Even New York City narrowly went for Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro wins the votes of Brazilians in the USA by a landslide. Bolsonaro 55% Lula 31% Here's the breakdown in the largest consulates. Miami 73% 16% NYC 45% 42% D.C. 41% 45% San Francisco 33% 53% Houston: 54% 28% Chicago: 33% 50% Daniel Di Martino (@DanielDiMartino) October 3, 2022 This rather looks like what the U.S. election map may look like if current trends continue in the U.S. and a red wave hits come November. In other words, based on their voting patterns, Brazilians are a lot like U.S. voters. That's one reason to think Brazil may trend with the U.S. rather than the rest of Latin America. All the same, we had those hopes in Colombia and Chile when the runoff times came, and in both cases, the rabid leftists ran away with it. In Colombia and Chile, at least, there's a Legislature that holds a lot of opposition power there to brake the worst excesses of the ruling leftists, and all signs are there that the pattern may hold in Brazil as well, with many conservatives now winning seats in the states and legislative bodies. One can only hope for the best in Brazil, as the odds seem to favor Lula retaking power. But as the Guardian notes in its hyperbole, "the far right is absolutely here to stay." That's good, because they had dismissed Bolsonaro as a goner. It signals the emergence of a real political pendulum instead of the sorry excuses for "conservative" that have existed up until Bolsonaro's victory in 2018. Let's hope Bolsonaro can keep it going and, in the meantime, water the entire rainforest with all the liberal tears. Image: Screen shot from NBC News Now via YouTube. During this massive, angry, satanic storm that nature hurled our way here in Florida this past week, there are a lot of lessons I learned, some of which I'd rather not have learned. Others, I was delighted to learn. My situation was a good one compared to many others. I did evacuate to an area slightly less impacted than the one directly in Hurricane Ian's eye, and we never once lost power. At times, though I thought the house would blow down, nothing budged except branches, leaves, and a few very old oaks. This I learned: Many people are looking for an opportunity to help out, and they will flow in from other states to do so, with no hope of remuneration. The Cajun Navy is a prime example: experienced in disaster rescue and relief, the group is a selfless and competent Godsend who goes everywhere to help. Some people will lose no time to blame their political enemies and "global warming" for everything bad they can see. People tend to have a sacrificial nature if they were brought up that way or if they know God. If they were not, it's "me first." The internet can be boon or bane: if it's not there, it can cause us to go back to reading, praying, writing, painting, dancing, worshiping, and talking to each other a whole lot more. Do not burden me with hardship stories standing outside in whipping winds and rain with a camera and a microphone. I was praying for a shark. Getting to know people better is a good thing, on many levels. My hosts, friends to begin with, were gracious, kind, and generous. And funny. Things can change in a heartbeat. I was woefully unprepared for this disaster, and that will change. Tom Cruise's Top Gun: Maverick movie is the best airplane movie on the planet. Ever. Austin Butler, who plays Elvis in the new movie by the same name, is superb, but did he ever do anything since then? If not, why not? Good coffee is delicious but treacherous: I had stopped drinking it but tried it again during my three-day stay at our hosts' home. I appreciate why people drink it. No more for me, though. I like having regular heartbeats and a placid spirit. Good friends are rare. Good friends who are selfless are rarer still. Good friends who are selfless and who go the extra mile to make you comfortable are nearly impossible to find. If you have any, treasure them and plan to be like them. Having a sweet, placid, gentle, elderly cat around during a storm is calming. They seem to know things. What happens post-disaster is revealing: we have discovered that our brilliant vice president believes that "people of color" should get disaster relief first. I take it that if she has a medical emergency, she will go to only hospitals that are entirely staffed by POC. We have learned that Ron DeSantis is probably the most capable, forward-thinking leader the country could possibly have. He will make a great POTUS. We have learned that people who have less stuff more easily make the best of things when things go south. More pampered people seem to suffer more when they lose their stuff. Stress is fatiguing and can sap the life out of older people after a very short period of time. Garage doors don't open in a power failure, when you need your car the most. God is good, God is merciful, and God will always, always, at some point, "work things for the good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28). Hurricane Ian hurt a lot of people and property, and it came not from man, but from God, who has every right to be cheesed off about what we have allowed to happen to our country's culture and politics. Just as God allowed Job to be tested by Satan in order to prove to Satan that Job would never curse God even though everything was taken from him, perhaps God has allowed Satan to test us in the form of Ian. How we relate to God in such circumstances will teach believers and unbelievers lessons of value. Do we trust God in the midst of our pain? Or do we trust in our own strength? Image: Screen shot from Washington Post video via YouTube. Democrats insist Republicans are a threat to democracy. Naturally, the media never asks them to define democracy. Emily Finley, however, has a Wall Street Journal essay explaining that the left embraces democratism. This means elites use their wisdom to make life better for the little people. I call it in loco parentis politics, with loco having its slang rather than its Latin meaning. Finleys essay argues that modern democracy bears no relationship to the demos or people, whether through direct or representative democracy. Instead, she says, we have elitist democratism that purports to speak for the people without having any liking or respect for them: It is an imaginative and idealistic understanding of popular rule that disdains ordinary people and looks to a cadre of so-called experts to operate the levers of power. Under this ideology, democracy and the people are rhetorical cover for the will of the elites. [snip] Jean-Jacques Rousseau applied this idea in The Social Contract. The general will, Rousseau says, is what the popular will ought to be, even if it isnt expressed by actual living people. The general will conveniently requires the translation of a wise legislator for its instantiation. Many of the most vocal champions of democracy, from Thomas Jefferson to our own day, have been advocates of this Rousseauean inversion, using the word democracy as justification for what would otherwise be naked authoritarianism. That explains how our elites insist that Americans should look to the World Economic Forum, a collection of rich, tyrannical wackos who imagine that they will control our lives so exquisitely that well have nothing and like it. Progressivism, starting with the execrable Woodrow Wilson, has always operated under the theory that leftist solons will make life better for the people. Image: A crazy person (edited) by luis-molinero; suspicious child (edited) by fabrikasimf; park (edited) by tirachard. Looking at todays American leftists, I realized that the Progressive dream is best understood through the phrase in loco parentis. That dry and ancient legal phrase refers to someone acting in place of (in the location of) the parent. When an adult legally takes charge of a child (e.g., a teacher during the school day or a foster parent), we say that person is acting in loco parentis. Democrats, however, have put a new spin on the word loco. Theyre not referring to someone acting responsibly for another. To understand them, you need to know that the word loco has taken on its slang meaning: crazy. Democrats are the crazy parents. Responsible parents gently correct a child who announces that he or she is a member of the opposite sex and help that child come to terms with reality. The crazy parents give the child toxic drugs and mutilating surgery and, if theyre the freaky California family down the block, they invite in all the confused kids in the neighborhood, promising surgery and drugs for free. Responsible parents make sure that they know who is entering their home, so their family isnt at risk. It helps to lock the doors and check through the peephole before answering. The crazy family in the neighborhood sets up tents all over the sidewalk and says that everyone is allowed into the neighborhoodand they insist that their kids consort with the new neighbor who coughs up blood and has gross scabs. Theyll also pick your locks if youre not looking. Responsible parents help their kids understand that substance abuse is dangerous. The crazy parent down the street parties with his kids and everyone elses, making sure they have an endless supply of alcohol and drugs. (It really helps that the people in new neighbors in the tents are augmenting that supply.) Responsible parents teach their kids how to manage a budget. The crazy parents spend every penny they have. Then, they go around the neighborhood forcing everyone else to pitch in. And they invariably come up with wild new spending plans. Responsible parents teach their kids to be ambitious and show them how to succeed through hard work. The loco parents let their kids do anything they want and then, when the kids fail, explain that its everyone elses fault. After that, they tell their kids to attack all the ones who are really to blame. Responsible parents understand that children need to stand on their own and be their own people. Theyll provide guidance and help them in times of real need, but they let the kids develop their own abilities. The crazy parents are the ultimate helicoptering micromanagers, controlling everything their kids do, fighting their battles, and denying them any liberty other than sex and drugs, all to be done under the crazy parents aegis. Its time for America to declare independence from the Democrats parenting style. The adults of this land dont need the crazed micromanagement they offer. We can and should have the freedom to handle ourselves, asking only that our government responsibly keep our country safe and stop spending money like crazy. (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - The father of Alessia Piperno, an Italian woman who has been detained in Iran, has said the family are extremely worried about her plight. Iran has launched a massive wave of arrests following the outbreak of street protests related to the death in custody of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini after she was held by 'morality police' for allegedly breaching the Islamic republic's dress code. "We are very worried. Unfortunately, the situation is not good," Alberto Piperno told ANSA. "We are in contact with the foreign ministry's crisis unit, which has activated all the relevant procedures". Piperno said that he had had a telephone call from his daughter from a Tehran prison on Sunday. "After Alessia's phone call from prison yesterday we haven't had any news, we haven't heard from her," Alberto Piperno said. In a Facebook post that was subsequently deleted, Alberto Piperno said that, until Sunday's call, the family had not had news from the woman for four days, since her 30th birthday on September 28. The father said his daughter was a "solo traveler who goes around the world to discover the habits and customs of (different) peoples. "She has always respected the traditions and, in certain cases, the obligations of each country she visited," he said. In a recent Instagram post, Alessia Piperno had said leaving Iran would have the the "wisest" thing for her to do, but said he was unable to leave "in part because I am part of all this". On her birthday, however, she said he had decided to go to Pakistan. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - An Italian woman has been arrested in Iran, according to a Facebook post by her father which, however, was subsequently removed. Iran has launched a massive wave of arrests following the outbreak of street protests related to the death in custody of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini after she was held by 'morality police' for allegedly breaching the Islamic republic's dress code. "We hadn't had news from her for four days, since her 30th birthday on September 28," the father of the Italian woman, Alessia, said in the post. "The last access to her cell phone was that date too. "This morning we got a call. It was her crying, telling us she was in prison. In Tehran. "She only spoke a few desperate words. She was asking for help". There has been no official confirmation so far of the woman's arrest. The father said his daughter was a "solo traveler who goes around the world to discover the habits and customs of (different) peoples. "She has always respected the traditions and, in certain cases, the obligations of each country she visited". (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - Life expectancy in southern Italy was 81.3 years in 2021, 1.6 years lower than for northern Italy (82.9 years), ISTAT said on Monday in its Equitable and Sustainable Well-being (BES) report. The life expectancy for central Italy was 82.8 years ISTAT said the life expectancy for Italy as a whole last year was 82.4 years. It said the north-south divide could also been seen in educational attainment. It said that 35.8% of pupils in northern Italy finished middle school with an inadequate level of numeracy, compared to 60% in southern Italy. (ANSA). According to Colliers India, new supply of office space rose 49 per cent during this period across six cities, including Hyderabad, to 32.8 million square feet on completion of many commercial projects to meet rising demand. (Representational Image) NEW DELHI: New supply of office space in Hyderabad rose 56 per cent to 7.9 million square feet from 5.1 million square feet during January-September period. According to Colliers India, new supply of office space rose 49 per cent during this period across six cities,including Hyderabad, to 32.8 million square feet on completion of many commercial projects to meet rising demand. Real estate consultant Colliers India said that the same stood at 22 million square feet in the year-ago period across six cities -- Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Pune and Mumbai. Fresh supply declined in Bengaluru and Mumbai, but rose in other four cities. As per the data, the new office supply declined 1 per cent to 8.1 million square feet in January-September 2022 from 8.2 million square feet in the corresponding period of the previous year. Mumbai saw a 16 per cent decline in new supply to 1.8 million square feet from 2.1 million square feet. Among cities that saw uptick in supply, the fresh supply of new office in Chennai jumped to 4.2 million square feet from 0.9 million square feet. Delhi-NCR witnessed a 133 per cent growth in new supply to 6.3 million square feet from 2.7 million square feet. Pune witnessed a 49 per cent rise in fresh supply to 4.5 million square feet during January-September 2022 from 3 million square feet in the corresponding period of the previous year. The gross leasing of office space nearly doubled to 40.6 million square feet during January-September across six major cities on pent-up demand driven largely by technology and co-working firms. The absorption of office space stood at 20.6 million square feet in the year-ago period across six cities. Colliers India expects absorption of office space to hit an all-time high in the 2022 calendar year, with gross leasing set to cross 50 million square feet. The previous high was seen in 2019 at 44.8 million square feet. Gross absorption does not include lease renewals, pre-commitments and deals where only a letter of intent has been signed. As a result, Colliers India reported that vacancy levels declined to 16.7 per cent from 18.5 per cent in the March quarter led by robust demand amidst limited new building completions. Higher enquiries and pre-commitments are likely to keep vacancy levels range bound in the next three months. "The growth story for Indian office market continues with robust space take up in the first three quarters of 2022. The flight to quality and further evolution of workspace utilisation, combination of hybrid and remote working where the innate thought is to bring back the social and people aspect of office environment," said Peush Jain, Managing Director - Office Services of Colliers India. "The attractiveness of Indian market would provide tailwind to demand in the last quarter as we move cautiously to 2023," Jain said. (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - Russia's Ambassador to Italy Serghey Razov arrived at the foreign ministry in Rome on Monday after being summoned to a meeting with ministry Secretary General Ettore Sequi. Razov has been summoned as part of an initiative Italy has agreed with its European partners to inform him that Rome will not recognize Moscow's declaration that it has annexed areas of Ukraine occupied by Russian forces. Ecological Transition Minister Roberto Cingolani said Sunday that the sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines was also set to be discussed with Razov. The already high tension has increased further following Russia's threats to use nuclear weapons in relation to the war in Ukraine and the interruption of gas supplies to Italy from Russia via the Trans Austria Gas Pipeline to Tarvisio at the weekend. It is the third time Razov has been summoned to the foreign ministry in six months. In April he was called to a meeting to be informed of the expulsion of 30 Russian diplomats. In June he was summoned to receive Italy's protests at accusations of Russophobia directed at the Italian authorities and media. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - The father of Alessia Piperno, an Italian woman who has been detained in Iran, has said the family are extremely worried about her plight. Iran has launched a massive wave of arrests following the outbreak of street protests related to the death in custody of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini after she was held by 'morality police' for allegedly breaching the Islamic republic's dress code. "We are very worried. Unfortunately, the situation is not good," Alberto Piperno told ANSA. "We are in contact with the foreign ministry's crisis unit, which has activated all the relevant procedures". Piperno said that he had had a telephone call from his daughter from a Tehran prison on Sunday. "After Alessia's phone call from prison yesterday we haven't had any news, we haven't heard from her," Alberto Piperno said. In a Facebook post that was subsequently deleted, Alberto Piperno said that, until Sunday's call, the family had not had news from the woman for four days, since her 30th birthday on September 28. The father said his daughter was a "solo traveler who goes around the world to discover the habits and customs of (different) peoples. "She has always respected the traditions and, in certain cases, the obligations of each country she visited," he said. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - Foreign Ministry Secretary General Ettore Sequi told a news conference on Monday that Italy condemns the "sham" referenda Russia held in areas of Ukraine occupied by its forces and will not recognize Moscow's declaration that it had annexed them after Russian Ambassador Sergey Razov was summoned to a meeting. Sequi said the referenda were held "illegally and in violation of every international law. "Italy does not recognize them nor the outcome," he added. Sequi said Italy would remain in line with its allies and contemplate imposing more sanctions on Russia as a "peaceful instrument of pressure to put an end to the war of aggression". (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 3 - Russia's Ambassador to Italy Serghey Razov arrived at the foreign ministry in Rome on Monday after being summoned to a meeting with ministry Secretary General Ettore Sequi. Razov has been summoned as part of an initiative Italy has agreed with its European partners to inform him that Rome will not recognize Moscow's declaration that it has annexed areas of Ukraine occupied by Russian forces. Ecological Transition Minister Roberto Cingolani said Sunday that the sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines was also set to be discussed with Razov. The already high tension has increased further following Russia's threats to use nuclear weapons in relation to the war in Ukraine and the interruption of gas supplies to Italy from Russia via the Trans Austria Gas Pipeline to Tarvisio at the weekend. (ANSA). Bulgaria: former PM Borissov wins general elections Second the PP of Kiril Petkov (ANSA) - SOFIA, OCT 3 - After counting 99.03% of the electoral ballots in Bulgaria, the conservative Gerb party, led by Boyko Borissov, is confirmed in the lead with 25.43% of the votes. The turnout for yesterday's election was extremely low, falling below 40%. The liberal party Pp of Kiril Petkov, the former premier who resigned last June after remaining at the helm of a disheartened coalition in parliament for a few months, received 20.21% of the votes, placing second. With 13.56%, the Turkish minority party DPS comes in third. (ANSA). Copyright ANSA - All rights reserved Italy's ENI ready to pay guarantee to unblock Russian gas Gazprom failed to provide a newly-imposed guarantee (ANSA-AFP) - MILAN, OCT 3 - Italian giant Eni said Monday it is ready to provide a 20-million-euro guarantee to restart deliveries of Russian gas through Austria, after a stoppage blamed on regulatory changes. The gas delivery was suspended Saturday because Russia's Gazprom failed to provide a newly-imposed guarantee to the carrier transporting it from Austria to Italy, Eni's CEO Claudio Descalzi said. "We are seeing if we take over" and provide the 20 million euros, he said, adding that he hoped that "the problem can be resolved this week". "The stoppage is absolutely not due to geopolitical reasons," Descalzi said on the sidelines of a Rome conference. Speaking about Gazprom, he added that "it is difficult to imagine that a company that wants to pay in rubles can provide guarantees in euros." Gazprom completely suspended gas deliveries to Eni on Saturday, citing the "impossibility of gas transport through Austria" due to a new regulation that came into force on October 1. Most of Russian gas delivered to Italy passes via Ukraine through the Trans Austria Gas Pipeline (TAG), to Tarvisio in northern Italy on the border with Austria. (ANSA-AFP). Copyright ANSA - All rights reserved TEL AVIV - A spokesperson for Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas, Nabil Abu Rudeina, condemned on Monday the "execution" of two young Palestinians by the Israeli army, which occurred this morning near the refugee camp of al-Jalazun close to Ramallah. "We demand from the government of occupiers - he told the official news agency Wafa - to end its dangerous and irresponsible practice" which, he warned, undermines the basis of security and stability for both populations. Rudeina referred in general to a high number of gunfights in the West Bank and in particular to the death on Monday of two youths, Basel Basbous and Khaled Anbar, who were shot inside their car by soldiers who - according the version provided by the Israeli army - were convinced that they wanted to run them over. According to Israeli public radio Kan, the two victims (and a third passenger, who was wounded) were members of al-Fatah. Sarah Everards killer Wayne Couzens will return to the Old Bailey to enter pleas after being charged with flashing. The 49-year-old is accused of two counts of indecent exposure pre-dating Ms Everards kidnap, rape and murder. In June 2015, he allegedly drove pantless through Dover in Kent. And in November 2020, he is accused of exposing himself to a female cyclist. Sarah Everard was snatched as she walked home (Family handout/CPS/PA) He is due to appear in court before Mrs Justice May on Monday. In a separate case, the former armed officer with the Mets Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command has pleaded not guilty to four counts of indecent exposure. Those charges relate to other alleged incidents in Swanley, Kent, last year on January 30 and February 6, and on February 14 and February 27. Last March, while a serving Metropolitan Police officer, Couzens snatched 33-year-old marketing executive Ms Everard as she walked home in south London. Couzens, from Deal in Kent, is currently serving a whole-life sentence at HMP Frankland in Durham for her killing. Over 1,000 students in the states 18 districts became ill in government hostels and Basar IIIT over the last eight months. Insects, cockroaches, frogs and lizards were found in the food served for students in separate incidents reported in the state in recent months. More than 600 students at Basar IIIT became ill as a result of food poisoning on July 15, with the majority of them being girls. During July and August, more food poisoning incidents were reported in the erstwhile Adilabad, Warangal, Khammam, and Medak districts because of contaminated water, unsanitary conditions in the mess, and the use of damaged vegetables, rotten eggs, and substandard or adulterated ingredients in government hostels and at Basar IIIT. During inspections, district officials found adulterated food items being used to cook food in Adilabad hostel kitchens. On July 26, S. Sanjay Kiran, a second-year student at Basar IIIT of Elgururangampet village in Sangem mandal in Warangal rural district, died of ill health while receiving treatment at MGM hospital. Sanjay was suffering from gastroenterology-related health issues, which medical experts attribute to food containing toxic ingredients. His family spent Rs. 15 lakh on his treatment, but it was all in vain. His parents claimed that their son died as a result of health complications caused by food poisoning. Another Basar IIIT first-year student, Vignesh of Hanamkonda, became ill with food poisoning and has not fully recovered from his illness. Basar students have complained about poor quality food prepared in unsanitary conditions and with subpar ingredients. In a series of incidents, two students found a frog and a cockroach in their food. These incidents sparked a student-led campaign to improve campus conditions and appoint a permanent VC. The reason for the rise in food poisoning is a lack of funding for the governments midday meal programme. The state government provides Rs. 950 per month to each student in the fifth to seventh grades, and Rs.1,100 to students in the eighth to tenth grades. In addition, each student above intermediate is charged Rs.1,500 in government hostels. In other words, the the state government is providing Rs. 2.28 lakh (240 students per head Rs. 950), `2.64 lakh (240 students per head Rs. 1,100), and Rs. 2.40 lakh (160 students per head Rs. 1,500) for three categories of students, totaling Rs. 7.32 lakh per student from Class 5 to Inter second year per month for one hostel with 640 students. The mess managements residential staff must pay Rs. 1.15 lakh in catering charges, `6 per student per month, and Rs. 6,000 in rice transportation. The remaining Rs. 6.11 lakh should be adjusted for 640 students on purchasing provisions such as vegetables, fruits, eggs, chicken, mutton, and milk from suppliers who received tenders at prices set by the district purchase committee. After 2017-18, there was no increase in the fixed mess charges in the state, and the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities had an indirect impact on the quality of food served to students in the hostels. Tenders are being solicited for food supply in accordance with the existing mess charges norms. Contractors fail to supply high-quality food and instead use subpar and, in some cases, expired ingredients. Previously, students were given 120 grams of chicken and 80 grams of mutton, but now only 80 grams of chicken and 40 grams of mutton are given to each student in the residential schools and colleges due to a lack of funds and no improvement of mess changes for the last four years. Anjeer, palli chikki, bread, milk and eggs, apples were given to students suffering from health issues. Due to a lack of funds, this food is no longer provided to students. The heads of residential hostels claim that they were unable to purchase even half of the prescribed provisions for students with the money they received in 2007. Serving quality food to hostel students is only possible if the state government raises mess fees to reflect the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities over the last four years, said heads of several government-run educational institutions. The Countess of Wessex has become the first member of the royal family to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Buckingham Palace has said. Sophie is carrying out an official visit to the African country at the request of the Foreign Office. The Palace said on Monday that the countesss visit will focus on addressing the devastating impact of sexual and gender-based violence in conflict, while supporting and empowering survivors and tackling the stigma they face. The Countess of Wessex arrives with Lord Ahmad (Jane Barlow/PA) She is being accompanied by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, the Prime Ministers special representative on preventing sexual violence in conflict. Security will be tight for Sophies visit, which had been planned for many months before the death of the Queen. In its recent history, the DRC has endured years of civil conflict in what has been called Africas world war, with the loss of up to six million lives through fighting or disease and malnutrition. A peace agreement was signed in 2002 but violence continued in some areas, requiring a large United Nations military force to try to maintain order. This August, Africas second largest country faced rising regional tensions in the east, with weeks of deadly protests against UN peacekeepers. Sophie during a meeting in Bukavu, South Kivu Province (Jane Barlow/PA) Sophies visit is taking place in the run-up to the International Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative Conference in London next month, which is being hosted by the UK Government and which the countess will attend. She publicly committed herself to supporting the UKs work helping victims of rape, sexual violence and exploitation in war in 2019. Sophie said last year that hearing survivors stories of sexual violence has taken her to some very dark places during her work to raise awareness. Every story I am told is pushing me forward. I feel obligated to tell people this is happening it is their story to tell and I support them, she added. Photo credit: Fisker The 2023 Fisker Ocean is almost ready for production, with 95 prototypes built so far by assembly partner Magna Steyr in Austria. Fisker is aiming to begin building the Ocean SUV on November 17. The top trim will cost nearly $70,000 and travel 350 miles on a charge, according to Fisker, while the base model will start under $40,000 and have a 250 mile range. Tesla has spawned a surge of electric startups with flashy designs, bold performance claims, and ambitious production dates. Most of these EVs never move beyond renderings, but Fisker appears poised to take the plunge into full-scale production. A revival of the brand that built the range-extender Karma sedan in the early 2010s, Fisker announced late last week that its Ocean SUV remains on track for production in November and that the company has already cranked out 95 prototypes of its electric crossover. Photo credit: Fisker The 2023 Ocean was fully revealed at the 2021 Los Angeles auto show, when Fisker pledged production would start by November of 2022. The Ocean will be assembled by Magna Steyr in Austria, where the 95 prototypes were already built. Outsourcing production could help Fisker avoid the production hell that companies such as Tesla and Rivian have experienced at their own proprietary manufacturing facilities. Fisker says the prototype Oceans are being utilized for testing, training for service employees, and to display the vehicle in the nine markets the automaker will launch in. Four versions of the electric crossover will be available: Extreme, Ultra, and Sport trim levels accompany the limited-edition Ocean One launch model. The One, Extreme, and Ultra all feature a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup, with the One and Extreme capable of 350 miles of range and a claimed 60-mph sprint of 3.6 seconds. The Ultra still can run a respectable 340 miles on a charge and hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the single-motor, front-wheel-drive Sports battery can last 250 miles, and its 60-mph sprint should be closer to seven seconds. These numbers are still all unverified claims by Fisker, with the Ocean yet to receive an official rating from the EPA. Fisker says the Ocean Extreme will start at $68,999 before destination fees, while the base Sport model will cost just $37,499, and Fisker is aiming to begin production on November 17. You Might Also Like Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken arrives at Military Transport Air Command CATAM in Bogota, Colombia. (Luisa Gonzalez / Pool) The Biden administration on Monday launched a weeklong courtship of three of Latin Americas newest leftist leaders in a bid to find pragmatic common ground rather than ideological confrontation on a host of issues, including immigration, drug trafficking and the widening influence of China. Day One was a bit discouraging. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken began the mission in Bogota, Colombia, taking a meeting with President Gustavo Petro, who came to office barely two months ago, before heading to Santiago, Chile, and Lima, Peru. In Lima, Blinken will also represent the U.S. at a summit of the Organization of American States. Administration officials say they are confident they can retain healthy relationships with these countries, even as much of Latin America shifts further to the left. That is despite the glaring embarrassment suffered when President Biden refused to invite Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela to the Summit of the Americas in June, a major event meant to showcase hemispheric cooperation. Several countries boycotted in protest. The first stop of Blinken's trip, Bogota, was always going to be the most challenging. Until Petros election, Colombia was governed for decades by one of two main political parties, both centrist or center-right institutions that were typically seen as the best friends the U.S. had in Latin America. The Colombian and U.S. governments cooperated fully in the militarized eradication of vast coca fields, the extradition of drug traffickers and in fighting guerrillas who challenged the status quo in a 50-year civil war. Petro, however, was once one of those guerrillas, and he has already called into question many of the shared policies. He has branded the U.S.-led war on drugs a failure and demanded a new approach that will end the forced eradication of illicit crops and might include legalization of some drugs. Some U.S. officials are privately concerned that cocaine production and exportation, which the U.S. multibillion-dollar efforts did not wipe out, could explode if Petro shifts his drug policy too severely. In a joint news conference Monday at Casa Narino, the official presidential residence in this verdant Andean capital, Blinken sought to downplay differences. He said he is open to what he called a "holistic" approach to fighting drugs that includes both law enforcement and rural development while tackling the "root causes" that fuel demand. He said the U.S. and Colombian governments are "in sync." Yet Petro seemed to stick to his guns, saying the extradition of Colombians to the U.S. should be rethought while also criticizing the U.S. for ostracizing Cuba. Petro has also broken with the U.S. in renewing ties with the controversial socialist leader of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, and in suggesting that it was a mistake to send more weapons to Ukraine. Each country has to take its own approach to these challenges, a senior State Department official said when asked about Petros rapprochement with Maduro. Later this week, Blinken will meet in the Chilean capital with President Gabriel Boric, a former student activist and one of the youngest leaders in the world, and in Lima with President Pedro Castillo, a former schoolteacher and leftist who is mired in corruption allegations. Blinken said he believes the trend toward the left in recent Latin American elections reflects people wanting governments that will deliver, more than a profound ideological shift. We are not judging countries based on where they fall on the political spectrum but rather their commitment to democracy, the rule of law and human rights, Brian Nichols, assistant secretary of State for Western Hemisphere affairs, said ahead of the trip. He noted that Colombia, Chile and Peru have long been important trading partners with Washington, and all have unbroken if sometimes turbulent recent histories as democracies. Last year, we celebrated 200 years of bilateral relations with Colombia, Nichols said. And this year, well be doing that with Chile and Peru. Blinkens tour started the day after Brazilians voted for president in a race between incumbent far-right populist Jair Bolsonaro and former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, a veteran leftist. Bolsonaro did better than polls suggested he would and forced the race into a runoff when Lula failed to win more than 50% of the vote. Perhaps more than ideology, the bigger challenge in Latin America for the Biden administration may be China. President Xi Jinping has spent billions of dollars in the region on infrastructure, loans and other projects in a thus-far-successful bid to expand Chinas influence and an attempt to eclipse the traditional U.S. presence. Immigration will also be a main topic in all three capitals during Blinken's visit. He praised Colombia for taking in hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans fleeing hardship at home, although Petro's renewal of relations with Caracas might signal a move to encourage Venezuelans to return to their cities. "There are more people displaced from their homes across our planet than at any time in recorded history," Blinken said. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. In 2018, community organizer Chris Lodgson helped promote the voting changes coming to Sacramentos historically Black Oak Park neighborhood. Polling places at churches and schools were on the way out. But the new options were going to be good: automatically mailed ballots, more days to vote, drop boxes. Ahead of this years midterms, 28 California counties have made the same changes. The expanded ballot access has worked largely as hoped. Turnout increased overall in the 2020 presidential election thanks to universal vote-by mail. Yet research shows the consolidation of in-person polling locations in many California counties led to losses in Black and Latino turnout as a share of the electorate. I kinda feel like we were lied to a little bit, said Lodgson, who now works primarily on reparations for descendants of slavery. We were told that there will be more options. So the way I understood that, that meant more centers, more polling places not less. Californias patchwork election reforms, particularly in-person voting and public outreach were borne of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, when limiting the spread of the virus was a priority. But election experts and administrators wonder whether the system in place is best suited to serve an electorate that matches the states racial and economic diversity. The California electorate is older, whiter, more affluent, more educated and more likely to own a home than the general population. State residents overall are younger, have lower incomes, and are more likely to be Latino or Black. Its true that universal vote-by-mail increased turnout overall. A spring study from the Public Policy Institute of California found that mail ballots mostly improved equity by reducing gaps in voter turnout between over and underrepresented groups. But researchers also found that consolidation of in-person voting sites 38 counties shuttered most neighborhood polling places in lieu of larger centers open for more days led to wider turnout gaps for registered voters of color, by as much as 4% for Blacks and 4% for Latinos. Mindy Romero, director of USCs Center for Inclusive Democracy and one of the studys authors, said in-person voting is important for accessibility, ballot assistance, language help and for people who want the communal experience of voting. Voting in person can range from a preference to an absolute need, and policymakers should keep that in mind, she said. We shouldnt just say Oh, so many people are using vote-by-mail and the in-person experience isnt important anymore. California had one of the highest rates of mail voting (57%) even prior to the pandemic. But the states Black voters are more likely than the general electorate to prefer voting in-person, other research by Romero shows. After the Voters Choice Act passed in 2016, counties that adopted it switched not only to universal vote-by-mail but also consolidated physical polling stations. In exchange, counties offered more early voting at larger centers that opened ten days ahead of election day as well as unstaffed ballot drop boxes. Sacramento County Democratic Party Chair Tracie Safford remembers noticing a blatant gap in drop box locations on the precinct map in neighborhoods that are disproportionately Black and low-income. You have folks that are disenfranchised already and feel as though we are being used for votes but when push comes to shove were not seeing support. she said. If we had these challenges here in Sacramento County, then we probably faced it all over the state. The Secretary of States office declined requests for an interview on the Voters Choice Act model and impacts of voting center consolidation. In a statement, press secretary Joe Kocurek said the office is interested in increasing voter participation especially among communities indicated in the PPIC study. We are still reviewing that study as well as our own data that takes a deep dive into voter demographics and participation outcomes over several elections. So just weeks away from the 2022 midterms, should we expect to see more of the same? The Old North Sacramento United Methodist Church was where Derrell Roberts, a longtime community leader in North Sacramento, voted every election until Sacramento County closed it in 2018. Fewer polling places means fewer chances for folks to vote, said Roberts. As far as impact of closures on turnout, he said the pandemic year muddied any effects. This election and the next presidential election will be a good judge of that. Kim Alexander, president of the California Voter Foundation, was part of an unsuccessful push for $85 million in this years budget for counties and the Secretary of States office to increase public communication on voting changes and options. The state completely underfunds elections, she said, leaving counties to foot the bill even when state races dominate the ballot. If the state and federal government paid their fair share, there would be resources to open up however many voting sites are needed to serve voters. On the subject of resources, several election administrators said opening voting centers for ten days is likely inefficient. Most voters wait until the last minute, so many centers sat empty the first few days in 2020. An additional 11 counties opted into the the Voters Choice Act for this election, which includes the permanent consolidation of polling places into vote centers. Advocates like Lodgson want to see more voting centers and drop boxes in low-income communities of color. But Efren Perez, a political scientist at UCLAs Latino Policy and Politics Institute, said its too soon to make changes to the Voters Choice Act reforms. Analyzing turnout data to pinpoint impacts is important, but isnt the full story yet. I think youre right to say hey, this seems to be a little bit off from what was promised, he said. But theres a big data limitation. Weve only seen one election lets give it a whirl two more times and then look at the effects. South Carolinas largest healthcare organization plans to invest $5 million and partner with five colleges in the state to overcome ongoing nursing shortages. Prisma Health will invest the money in a pilot nursing recruitment program at Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, the University of South Carolina Upstate, Greenville Technical College and Midlands Technical College, a Monday Prisma Health press release states. Most of the nursing programs are set to launch in January. The University of South Carolina Upstate launched its program in September with 24 students. As many as 210 nursing students statewide could benefit from the pilot program, the press release states. Prisma Health is committed to creating a strong, durable and successful pipeline of healthcare workers for South Carolina, Mark OHalla, president and CEO of Prisma Health, said in the press release. Our collaborative efforts to create the nursing scholars program combines academics, research, innovation and healthcare practice to address the changing needs and experiences necessary to create the healthcare workforce of the future. Prisma Health currently employs more than 7,300 nurses. The program includes scholarships and increased access to clinical experiences and mentorship for students in their junior and senior years. The program will fund: Additional advisor positions Additional educational and student-success resources at the schools Creating a collaborative approach that partners employers and educators Expanding the hiring pipeline from the states nursing schools to Prisma Health hospitals The program builds upon Prisma Healths nationally recognized MedEx Academy, which helps high school and college students explore and pursue health care careers. Clemson is proud to participate in the Prisma Health Nursing Scholars program as we partner with Prisma and these other excellent nursing programs to positively impact health outcomes across the state of South Carolina. This new initiative will build upon our relationship with Prisma Health one which has enabled Clemson to double its nursing undergraduate program since 2018 and continue to enable Clemsons top students to become health providers in our state, Bob Jones, executive vice president and provost, Clemson University, said in a statement. Jeannette O. Andrews, dean of the College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, said in a statement that she was thankful for the new partnership. UofSC College of Nursing is preparing and graduating new nurses to enter the workforce who are well-prepared to meet South Carolinas healthcare needs, she said. We thank Prisma Health for their commitment to provide our students with opportunities during their training and after graduation. Tires set fire by Palestinians burn at the site where two Palestinians were shot and killed by the Israeli army in the Jalazone refugee camp near the city of Ramallah, West Bank, Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. Palestinian officials say the Israeli military has killed two Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The Israeli military says it was on an arrest raid early Monday and alleges the two suspects tried to ram their car into soldiers, a claim that could not be independently verified. (AP Photo/Majdi Mohammed) TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) The Israeli military shot and killed two Palestinians during a raid in the occupied West Bank early Monday, Palestinian officials said. The military alleged that the men tried to ram their car into soldiers, a claim that could not be independently verified. Palestinians and rights group often accuse Israeli troops of using excessive force against Palestinians, who live under a 55-year military occupation with no end in sight. Israel says it follows strict rules of engagement and opens fire in life-threatening situations. The military said soldiers were attempting to arrest a suspect in the Jalazone refugee camp near the city of Ramallah when the two Palestinians allegedly attempted to run over soldiers with their car. The soldiers opened fire on the car, the military said. The Palestinian Civil Affairs Authority, which coordinates on civilian issues with Israel, said the military shot and killed the two men. Their identities were not immediately known. Israel has been carrying out nightly arrest raids in the West Bank since the spring, when a spate of Palestinian attacks against Israelis killed 19 people. Israel says its operations are aimed at dismantling militant infrastructure and preventing future attacks. The Palestinians see the nightly incursions into their cities, villages and towns as Israel's way of deepening its occupation of lands they want for their hoped-for state. The Israeli raids have killed some 100 Palestinians, making this year the deadliest since 2016. Most of those killed are said by Israel to have been militants but local youths protesting the incursions as well as some civilians have also been killed in the violence. Hundreds have been rounded up, with many placed in so-called administrative detention, which allows Israel to hold them without trial or charge. The raids have driven up tensions in the West Bank, with an uptick in Palestinian shooting attacks against Israelis. They have also drawn into focus the growing disillusionment amongst young Palestinians over the tight security coordination between Israeli and the internationally-backed Palestinian Authority, who work together to apprehend militants. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and 500,000 Jewish settlers now live in some 130 settlements and other outposts among nearly 3 Palestinians. The Palestinians want that territory, along with east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, for their future state. ___ Associated Press reporter Jalal Bwaitel contributed to this report from Ramallah, West Bank. State Sen. Dick Harpootlian, D-Columbia, compares his proposed map of U.S. House districts drawn with 2020 U.S. Census data to a plan supported by Republicans on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, in Columbia, S.C.. The full Senate was debating the maps. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins) Lawyers for the South Carolina chapter of the NAACP will argue in court this week that the states new congressional map discriminates against Black voters and must be redrawn. A trial over the map, which the General Assembly passed in January over the objection of Democrats and good government groups, gets underway Monday at the federal courthouse in Charleston. At issue is whether the map violates the 14th and 15th amendments of the U.S. Constitution, which granted all citizens equal protection under the law and gave Black men the right to vote. The South Carolina NAACP filed suit in February charging that the new congressional map which is expected to solidify the GOPs 6-1 advantage in the U.S. House for the next decade was unconstitutional because it diluted the voting strength of Black South Carolinians. The plaintiffs, who are represented by several civil rights groups, including the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the American Civil Liberties Union, claim state lawmakers used race as the primary factor in drawing the 1st, 2nd and 5th congressional districts. South Carolina House and Senate Republican leaders and the State Election Commissions director and commissioners, who are named as defendants in the lawsuit, have denied that race factored prominently into the maps construction. A three-judge panel of Mary Geiger Lewis, Toby Heytens and Richard Gergel will hear arguments in the case over the next two weeks before rendering a decision on the maps constitutionality. There is no deadline by which the judges must decide the case, although it wont happen before Oct. 28, when post-trial briefings are due. Regardless of the panels decision, the challenged map will be used in this years general election. What to expect The plaintiffs challenging the map make two broad claims in their suit: that race was the primary factor lawmakers considered when drawing congressional district lines, and that their use of race was motivated by intentional discrimination. They need prove only one of the claims for the court to require that the map be redrawn. Based on their complaint, the plaintiffs are likely to argue that lawmakers revision of the map to account for population shifts and growth over the past decade primarily in Congressional Districts 1 and 6, represented by Republican Rep. Nancy Mace and Democratic House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, respectively amounts to racial gerrymandering. The new map significantly reduced the percentage of Black voters in Clyburns district albeit not enough to eliminate their considerable say in the candidate elected but did not reapportion the other six districts in a way that provided Black voters any real influence, they argued. Rather than moving Black voters from the 6th into another district where they could have an electoral impact, the suit claims the new map dilutes their voting strength by spreading them across multiple districts to ensure that no other district has enough Black voters to elect their preferred candidates. Black and white voters were sorted among the congressional districts under the guise of correcting for CD 1s significant overpopulation and CD 6s underpopulation, the suit argues. But various alternatives were proposed to the Legislature which reapportioned South Carolinas congressional map without locking in the majoritys advantage in six of the seven congressional districts and harming Black voters to achieve that objective. If the panel of judges finds the General Assembly prioritized racial considerations above all else, the House and Senate defendants would then need to make the case that their use of race to draw the maps was narrowly tailored to serve a compelling state interest. The defendants already have said, however, that race was not a primary consideration when drawing the map. Rather, defendants argued in their motion for summary judgment that the General Assembly had been engaged in a legitimate political objective when it drew the maps in a way that preserved and strengthened the 6-1 Republican advantage. Politics, not racial antipathy, drove mapmaking decisions, they argued. District 1 had become basically a swing district, having narrowly elected Democrat Joe Cunnigham in 2018 and Republican Nancy Mace in 2020, which prompted concerns (including from Mace herself) that Republicans could lose the district in future elections, the defendants argued in their unsuccessful motion for summary judgment. Based on these political numbers, the General Assembly selected a map that equalized population while moving District 1 to the Republican side. While the argument that political considerations largely informed lawmakers mapmaking decisions contradicts what some members said during the redistricting process, it does not pose a legal problem for the defendants because the U.S. Supreme Court in 2019 decided that partisan redistricting was a political question not reviewable by federal courts. SC House map adjusted via settlement In addition to challenging the constitutionality of South Carolinas congressional map, the NAACPs lawsuit also alleged the new state House map discriminated against Black voters. The parties resolved that dispute prior to trial, however, with House Republican leaders agreeing earlier this year to adjust the maps boundaries in three parts of the state Richland/Kershaw, Orangeburg and Dillon/Horry counties. The changes, which the Legislature approved in June and the governor signed into law, affect the boundaries of roughly a dozen districts in those areas and make material changes to a handful of districts. In a statement released at the time, Brenda Murphy, the president of the South Carolina NAACP, called the settlement a historic occasion. Our political leadership has listened to our grievances and is working to create a more equitable political landscape, Murphy said. Attorney Mark Moore, who represents the South Carolina House in the lawsuit, said the settlement was reasonable for voters and should instill confidence in the electoral process. Certainty in our voting process is one of the greatest virtues we have in South Carolina and trust in that process is of crucial importance to our people, Moore said in a statement released at the time. With this settlement, we will end costly litigation with a decision that is reasonable for voters and allows voters to have confidence in the electoral process. The adjustments to the state House map go into effect in 2024. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Donald Trump on Monday objected to a Justice Department request for an expedited ruling in the special master case involving documents seized by the FBI in an August search of the former president's Florida home. "The government has not and cannot possibly articulate any real risk of loss or harm resulting from a more deliberative process," Trump's lawyers said in a filing in the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The U.S. Justice Department on Friday moved to expedite its appeal of an order appointing a special master to review records the FBI seized from Trump's Florida estate. The department said its inability to access the non-classified documents is still hampering significant aspects of its investigation on the retention of government records at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate. The Justice Department asked the appeals court to order that all papers be filed in the case by Nov. 11, and hold any necessary hearing in the case as soon as that briefing is completed. Trump's lawyers on Monday proposed a Nov.21 deadline for all papers to be filed. Trump's team also opposed expediting oral arguments in the case, according to the filing, saying January 2023 would be an appropriate time frame. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu and Kanishka Singh; Editing by Mark Porter) WASHINGTON (AP) President Biden on Monday will survey damage from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico, where tens of thousands of people are still without power two weeks after the storm hit. The Category 1 hurricane knocked out electrical power to the U.S. territory of 3.2 million people, 44% of whom live below the poverty line. Power has been restored to about 90% of the islands 1.47 million customers, but more than 137,000 others, mostly in the hardest hit areas of Puerto Ricos southern and western regions, continue to struggle in the dark. Another 66,000 customers are without water. Biden has pledged that the U.S. government will not abandon Puerto Rico as it starts to rebuild again, five years after the more powerful Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017. During his visit, Biden planned to announce the administration will provide $60 million through last years bipartisan infrastructure law to help Puerto Rico shore up levees, strengthen flood walls and create a new flood warning system so the island will be better prepared for future storms, the White House said. We see what youre going through, and were with you, Biden told Puerto Ricans and Floridians in a message Sunday on his official Twitter account. Playa Salinas is flooded after the passing of Hurricane Fiona in Salinas, Puerto Rico. (Alejandro Granadillo/AP) Florida is cleaning up after Hurricane Ian churned across that state last week, killing more than 60 people, decimating some coastal communities and flooding others. Biden plans to visit Florida on Wednesday to survey damage. The president, accompanied by first lady Jill Biden and Deanne Criswell, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator, was to touch down Monday in Ponce, Puerto Rico, a city on the southern coast. Most of the storm damage is in southern Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi said he would update Biden on recovery efforts. We will make sure to keep working together to ensure the continuity of a reconstruction already underway," the governor tweeted on Sunday. Fiona caused catastrophic flooding, tore apart roads and bridges, and unleashed more than 100 landslides when it hit Puerto Rico on Sept. 18. At least two people died after being swept away by floods, and several others were killed in accidents related to the use of candles or generator during the island-wide power outage. We will make sure to keep working together to ensure the continuity of a reconstruction already underwayPuerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Government officials have estimated some $3 billion in damages, but warn that costs could rise significantly as evaluations continue. Some people in Puerto Rico wondered whether Bidens visit would change anything as they recalled how President Donald Trump visited after Hurricane Maria hit as a more powerful Category 4 storm in 2017, and tossed rolls of paper towels into a crowd in a display that riled many. Manuel Veguilla, a 63-year-old retired mechanic who lives in a remote community in the hard-hit northern mountain town of Caguas, said he didnt expect his life to improve in the aftermath of Fiona, which cut off his neighborhood from any help for a week. They always offer the lollipop to the kids, he said, referring to Bidens visit. But in the end, the outcome is always the same. The aid goes to those who have the most. Criswell, who discussed the aftermath of Fiona and Ian on four Sunday TV news programs, echoed Biden's promise to Fionas victims. We have not left Puerto Rico, she said on CBS Face the Nation. A woman looks at her water-damaged belongings after flooding caused by Hurricane Fiona tore through her home in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. (Stephanie Rojas/AP) Criswell said on ABC's This Week that FEMA personnel were sent to the island before the storm hit and that they're going to stay with the people of Puerto Rico" through the recovery efforts. Biden recently told Pierluisi that he authorized 100% federal funding for a month for debris removal, search and rescue efforts, power and water restoration, shelter and food. The lack of electrical power on the island led to the temporary closure of businesses, including gas stations and grocery stores, as fuel supplies dwindled amid heavy generator use. As a result, many cheered the Biden administration's decision to temporarily waive a federal law so that a British Petroleum ship could deliver 300,000 barrels of diesel. Many also have begun demanding that Puerto Rico be fully exempted from the law, known as the Jones Act, that requires that all goods transported to Puerto Rico be aboard a ship built in the U.S., owned and crewed by U.S. citizens and flying the U.S. flag. This drives up costs for an island that already imports 85% of its food. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., also said Puerto Ricans would not be forgotten. Rubio said the island appeared to be in better position to respond this time around due to the prepositioning of personnel and supplies before the storm hit and because part of Puerto Rico's electrical grid had been rebuilt after Hurricane Maria. We will do everything we can, we always have, to support Puerto Rico now in the recovery after this, yet another devastating storm, Rubio said on CNN's State of the Union. A Northern Ireland minister has said he is happy to eat humble pie in a bid to improve the broken relationship between Britain and Ireland. Steve Baker, previously a strident Brexit supporter, said he is convinced that a deal can be reached on the Northern Ireland Protocol if negotiations are made in a spirit of goodwill. It comes after the former member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of MPs apologised over his ferocious stance on negotiations with the EU. He told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham on Sunday that relations with Ireland were not where they should be, and added that ministers needed to act with humility to restore relationships with the Republic and the EU. Speaking on Irish broadcaster RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland programme on Monday, Mr Baker, said he was sorry that relations between the UK and Ireland have been soured by the Brexit process. Mr Baker said he was sorry that the Brexit process had soured relations (Jacob King/PA) Im very convinced that, if we get into a negotiation, without pre-conditions, and together in a spirit of goodwill, we can de-escalate this problem and we can get a deal which works for everyone, respecting everyones legitimate interests, north-south and east-west, he said. And that really is why, if I have to eat a bit of humble pie in order to restore broken relationships to get that done, well, Im happy to eat a bit of humble pie. Mr Baker said his motivation for his apology was to try to get a deal that works on the Northern Ireland Protocol. If were going to be constructive here and get a deal that works for everyone, weve got to de-escalate these tensions. So that was my motivation, he said. I sincerely want to be on the right side of all parties involved in the Belfast Good Friday Agreement so that we can make progress, get a deal and get on with the really serious issues that we face in Northern Ireland. He added: Im sorry that relations between the United Kingdom and Ireland have been soured by the Brexit process. And I recognise that as the leader of the sort of 28, if I can put it in those terms, who rejected Theresa Mays deal three times, that caused enormous amounts of anxiety, and I recognise also that businesses in Northern Ireland faced a lot of costs through this process of uncertainty. And those are things I want to see put right. We can put those right in the deal. Atram Mothu Bai is in a pensive mood after her daughter died of ill health in Jendaguda village in Utnoor village in Adilabad district. (DC) The Telangana governments midday meal programme, which was launched with the twin objective of improving childrens nutritional status in government hostels and residential schools as well as encouraging students from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds to attend school, is gradually losing credibility. The goal was to keep children in school and allow them to concentrate on their education rather than working for food to support their families. Unfortunately, the objective seems to have been defeated by increasing reports of food poisoning in government hostels, residential schools, and colleges that seems to have dented the governments image. There has been an increase in both food poisoning cases and student deaths in government hostels, residential schools, and colleges in the state in the last six months. Telangana Social Welfare Schools and Hostels were highly sought-after educational institutions, with high demand for admissions. However, a series of food poisoning incidents, student deaths, and large numbers of sick students harmed these institutions credibility. After the incidents, parents of the students are reconsidering sending their children to these schools because they believe there is no guarantee for their childrens lives and that it would be better to keep them in their villages and educate them in local schools so that the children will be alive. Government educational schools continue to be characterised by poor accountability and infrastructure, low attendance, and low pass rates. The reports of food poisoning in government hostels, residential schools, and colleges came at a time when the Covid-19 pandemic was already having a significant impact, not only on peoples health, but also on how the most vulnerable and marginalised boys and girls learn as the schools remained closed for a prolonged period. Students educational standards fell on a variety of counts as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. There was no mid-day meal because students and hotels were closed during the Covid-19 pandemic, several students were unable to get at least food and eggs because they were at home with the closure of everything for nearly a year and a half. Moreover, the Covid-19 crisis has highlighted the increasing digital divide among students in the states villages and tribal areas with little or no access to cellphones and computers. On the other hand, the online classes conducted in government schools and hostels have proved to be of little use to students, whereas physical classes help them learn and do their homework effectively. The digital divide is not the only issue; students in several government hotels and residential schools also suffer from a lack of potable water, clean toilets, and sanitation, and some hostels in hilly areas do not even receive water from the Mission Bhagiratha, the Telangana governments landmark project that recently received a national award. Although the state government is working to improve conditions in government schools through Mana Vooru Mana Badi, it has not implemented a similar programme for government hostels and residential schools. Many educationists believe that simply developing infrastructure in government hostels does not result in significant change in the hostels when there is no proper maintenance and no supervision by higher-ups. Educationists expressed concern about a lack of funds, poor sanitation, unsanitary conditions, contaminated water and adulterated food items used in food preparation, poor quality of food and a lack of supervision, as well as a lack of proper medical facilities for students in hostels and a significant delay in providing medical treatment to needy students in emergencies. These issues should be addressed aggressively and proactively in order to instill confidence in students and their parents about government hostels, as there is a growing perception among parents that these institutions are becoming death traps for students due to a variety of issues. In terms of food poisoning cases, government hostels, residential schools, and colleges have been facing financial difficulties in recent years due to a lack of funding. Concerning food poisoning cases, government hostels, residential schools, and colleges were experiencing a funding shortage because the government was not releasing the necessary funds as in the past. Private contractors who supplied food items had been suffering from pending bills for a long time, which was affecting the quality of the food they supplied indirectly. However, special officers of the KGBV schools are managing the hostels with their personal risk in some hostels despite a lack of funds. In her speech at Basar IIIT on September 26, education minister Sabita Indra Reddy stated that nearly nine lakh students were studying in government hostels, residential schools and colleges across the state, and that they were provided with good food, lodging and clothing. She stated that this was in line with Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Raos vision of providing free education from kindergarten to graduate school. On his part, the Chief Minister stated at the inauguration of Adivasi and Banjara Bhavans in Hyderabad that the government was spending `1.25 lakh on each student who was studying in residential schools in the state. Despite the assertions and claims of the Telangana government, the fact remains that several problems, such as a lack of sanitation, adequate facilities, and increasing cases of food poisoning cases continue to plague the government educational institutions. RANGA REDDY: GIRLS SAY UNABLE TO CHANGE PADS The girl students of KGBV recently staged a massive protest in Ibrahimpatnam, Ranga Reddy district, demanding a supply of water and protesting the poor quality of food served to the students. The girl students stated that they were unable to change even their pads or take baths during periods due to a severe lack of water in the hostel, and that the situation appears to be dire. The hostel staff is getting water from private tankers, and the private water suppliers are not supplying water on a regular basis because they have not been paid their bills. ADILABAD: NO WATER FOR TAKING BATH, WASHING LINEN On April 18, approximately 200 students from the Telangana ST Gurukula School for Girls protested in this context. According to one inmate, many students were experiencing health issues such as itching because they did not take baths on a regular basis. They claimed that they were deprived of water for washing and cleaning even during their monthly periods. They urged the district officials to provide adequate water to them at their residential school at Mavala Gram Panchayat. POOR QUALITY RICE SUPPLIED TO HOSTELS There are strong allegations that old rice that was stocked during the Covid-19 pandemic is now being supplied to government hostels, and that this rice is full of white worms and Thuttelu, and that it is extremely difficult to clean before cooking rice. Food contamination is a real possibility when cooking with stale rice, damaged vegetables, contaminated water, subpar ingredients, and cooking in unsanitary conditions. Sajid Khan, the DCC in-charge president, said during an inspection of a minority residential school in Bangaruguda village in Adilabad mandal that the state governments claim of supplying fine quality rice to hostels is false, and that food is prepared with the general PDS rice supplied to the hostels. R.O. PLANTS NOT WORKING: LACK OF FUNDS There are a total of 133 tribal Ashram schools with 34,000 students, and 905 Primary Tribal schools with 20,000 students under the ITDA, Utnoor in the former Adilabad district. RO plants were built at a cost of Rs 10 lakh each to provide purified drinking water to students, but many of them are no longer operational in Kerameri and Sirpur (T) mandals and require repairs. However, officials claim that the repairs were halted due to a lack of funds. As a result, students are forced to drink contaminated water because Mission Bhagiratha water was not supplied to hostels located in the interior and on hilly areas due to damaged pipelines and a lack of power supply. PARENTS FEAR KIDS WILL DIE IN STUDIES After completing her college studies, Atram Kavitha of Jendaguda village in Utnoor mandal, a Kolam Adivasi considered a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), wanted to become an officer to work for the uplift of the poor like her community in society, but her life abruptly ended after she died of ill-health and her family's dreams shattered When this correspondent visited interior Jendaguda village, Kavithas mother Mothu Bai stated that children will die if they go for higher studies to towns by leaving their villages (ekkuva chaduvuthe... pillalu chachipo-tharu), and that this is the feeling they have collectively developed since her daughters death, and that they are now afraid of sending their children to hostels outside of their villages. Irelands premier has described Northern Ireland minister Steve Bakers apology over his previous stance on Brexit as honest and very helpful. Taoiseach Micheal Martin welcomed the tone of Mr Bakers upfront comments. Mr Baker, a former strident Brexiteer and member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of MPs, apologised on Sunday over his ferocious stance on negotiations with the EU. He told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham that relations with Ireland are not where they should be, and added that ministers need to act with humility to restore relationships with the Republic and the EU. Speaking after a shared island event in Dublin on Monday, Mr Martin said: I welcomed not just his comments, but the tone of his comments. I think they were honest and very, very helpful. And I look forward to continuing engagement with Minister Baker and others within the British Government. Prime Minister Liz Truss said Mr Baker was speaking for himself. In an interview with UTV filmed on Sunday, she said: Steve speaks from his own personal experience being deeply involved in the Brexit debate, but he speaks for the whole Government in that we absolutely want to find a negotiated solution to deal with the issues of the Northern Ireland Protocol and work with our neighbours in the Republic of Ireland. Asked whether she thought she should apologise on behalf of the UK Government, Ms Truss said she had always worked constructively with the EU and the Republic of Ireland, but reaffirmed that we do need to fix the very serious issues that have been caused by the NI Protocol. Prime Minister Liz Truss at the Tory party conference (Jacob King/PA) The Taoiseach said he had a very good engagement with Ms Truss and new Cabinet members at the Queens funeral. I met the British Prime Minister and we both articulated a collective sense of the long-term desirability of very good relationships between Britain and Ireland and also between the United Kingdom and the European Union, and I think those comments are in that context, he said. Mr Martin added it is very clear that there is a genuine determination to try and resolve all of the issues around the protocol by negotiation. But he warned there is a lot of work to be done in terms of the hard negotiations. Talks are set to resume later this week between the UK and the EU in a bid to find a way out of the impasse. Mr Baker said on Monday that he is happy to eat humble pie in a bid to improve the broken relationship between Britain and Ireland. He told Irish broadcaster RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland programme he is sorry that relations between the UK and Ireland have been soured by the Brexit process and that he is convinced a deal can be reached on the protocol if negotiations are made in a spirit of goodwill. Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker said he is sorry that the Brexit process has soured relations (Jacob King/PA) Im very convinced that, if we get into a negotiation, without pre-conditions, and together in a spirit of goodwill, we can de-escalate this problem and we can get a deal which works for everyone, respecting everyones legitimate interests, north-south and east-west, Mr Baker said. And that really is why, if I have to eat a bit of humble pie in order to restore broken relationships to get that done, well, Im happy to eat a bit of humble pie. Mr Baker said his motivation for his apology was to try to get a deal that works. If were going to be constructive here and get a deal that works for everyone, weve got to de-escalate these tensions. So that was my motivation, he said. I sincerely want to be on the right side of all parties involved in the Belfast Good Friday Agreement so that we can make progress, get a deal and get on with the really serious issues that we face in Northern Ireland. He added: I recognise that, as the leader of the sort of 28, if I can put it in those terms, who rejected Theresa Mays deal three times, that caused enormous amounts of anxiety, and I recognise also that businesses in Northern Ireland faced a lot of costs through this process of uncertainty. And those are things I want to see put right. We can put those right in the deal. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met on October 2 in Geneva, the Armenian foreign ministry said. FM Mirzoyan reaffirmed the position of the Armenian side on the withdrawal of Azerbaijani troops from Armenias sovereign territory and the immediate release of all Armenian prisoners of war. The importance of introducing international mechanisms for controlling the border situation was highlighted. The Armenian FM stated that the war crimes committed by the Azerbaijani armed forces must be clearly assessed by international courts, and the criminal must be held accountable. The sides exchanged views on the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, ensuring the rights and security guarantees for the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh, including through the establishment of a discussion mechanism between Stepanakert and Baku. The sides positively assessed the mutual understanding on unblocking of the regional transport routes under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the countries. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Armenia will not allow the equation between a victim of a war crime and the criminal, Ambassador at-Large Edmon Marukyan said in a statement in response to a tweet by EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia Toivo Klaar. EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia Toivo Klaar tweeted that today he has received several videos allegedly showing war crimes committed against Azerbaijan. He emphasized that these videos are yet to be investigated and authenticated, so that the real perpetrators are held accountable also, and he also noted that the conflict has left deep wounds on both sides. Its clear whats happening, isnt it? As soon as irrefutable evidence surfaces on war crimes committed by Azerbaijan, in order to counter it Azerbaijan quickly presents false accusations of war crimes allegedly committed by the Armenian side during the 44-Day War of 2020. Soon thereafter an equal sign is put between the victim and the criminal (as if both sides have done the same). Moreover, it is simply completely unreasonable to try and compare any incident that happened at large-scale wartime with an explicit war crime committed during the discussions of a draft peace treaty. I am sure that the Armenian forces have never committed such war crimes; there cant even be any edge of comparison with everything we saw in the horrific video showing Azeri extrajudicial killings of Armenian prisoners of war. We will not allow the equation between a victim of a war crime and the criminal, Marukyan said. The footage of the gruesome killings of Armenian PoWs by Azeri troops was posted online in Azeri social media. The authenticity of the video has been validated by the Human Rights Defender and the Defense Ministry using video data base material, comparative analyses of terrain, weather conditions, conversations and uniforms of the troops. Earlier on October 2, following the release of the video showing the killings of Armenian PoWs by Azeri troops, Klaar had tweeted: Another horrible video has emerged of Armenian prisoners of war apparently being executed. If this video is proven to be authentic then this is a war crime that needs to be investigated and the perpetrators punished." YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The volume of trade turnover between Armenia and Russia comprised around 2 billion dollars in the first half of 2022. This is an increase of 50% compared to the same period of 2021, Russias Trade Representative Anna Donchenko said during a press conference in Armenpress. The figure I presented are quite telling. These numbers continue growing, we hope that we will have much more positive indicators by the end of the year. We have very good development opportunities and preconditions at all directions. For example, the construction sector is developing in Armenia at a bigger rate, we register this and inform our businesses. 4 exhibitions are being held in Armenia relating to the construction sector only during the year, which is very important for the establishment of business ties, she said. Anna Donchenko said that the Unions of Constructors of Armenia and Russia have signed a memorandum of cooperation, which will contribute to further deepening and strengthening the ties in the field. She emphasized that all areas are important for them. Zarubezh Expo OJSC director on international cooperation Anatoly Nikolaev in turn stated that the 2 billion USD registered in the first half of this year is a serious indicator, highlighting the active exercise of the cooperation potential in different areas. As we see, the Armenian-Russian economic cooperation is developing quite successfully. It is a result of a major work done in different directions. The organization of exhibitions, business forums with the participation of businessmen of the two countries contribute to it, he said. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Office of the former President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian issued a statement calling the latest atrocities of Azerbaijani armed forces against Armenian prisoners of war a war crime. The continuous atrocities by the Azerbaijani armed forces against Armenian prisoners of war are a war crime. The international community and institutions should give a proper and targeted response to those crimes, the statement says. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The 9th Expo-Russia Armenia International Industrial Exhibition and the 7th Yerevan Business Forum will be held October 5-7 in Yerevan. Zarubezh-Expos exhibition project manager Svetlana Zabelina said at a news conference that more than 30 companies will participate in the event. Major Russian enterprises will participate whove attended previously. We also have new companies who are participating for the first time, representing the most various branches of the economy energy, oil-gas, mining, machinery, construction, transport, agro-industry, banking and insurance, science, education and others, Zabelina said. The Russian trade representative to Armenia Anna Donchenko said that the Armenian-Russian economic relations are consistently developing and that events like this exhibition greatly contribute to this. The www.ExpoRF.ru and www.ExpoEurasia.org online platforms will also be available. YEREVAN, 3 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 3 October, USD exchange rate up by 0.57 drams to 406.22 drams. EUR exchange rate up by 1.16 drams to 397.24 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.48 drams to 7.09 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 6.32 drams to 455.25 drams. The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals. Gold price up by 251.69 drams to 21833.51 drams. Silver price up by 4.92 drams to 248.41 drams. Platinum price stood at 16414.1 drams. The trio was arrested for allegedly planning to carry out terror activities in the city. (Photo: By arrangement) HYDERABAD: A 39-year-old man, Abdul Zahed, who was previously linked with terror activities, was arrested along with two of his associates for allegedly planning to carry out terror activities in the city. The police, who were tipped off on his whereabouts, said that Zahed was in contact with conduits of Pakistan ISI and Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT), and conspired to carry out terror attacks, mostly as a lone wolf, in the city. Zahed was arrested along with Mohammed Sameeuddin and Maaz Hasan Farooq in Malakpet, and four hand grenades were recovered from their possession. According to the police, Zahed had a hand in several past attacks in Hyderabad, particularly the attack on the Hyderabad City Police Commissioner Task Force office at Begumpet in 2005. The police identified Zaheds contacts as Farhatullah Ghori, Siddique Bin Osman and Abdul Majeed, all natives of Hyderabad, who are in Pakistan and working for the ISI. They are wanted for recruiting local youth and radicalising them to execute terror attacks, including a blast near the Dilsukhnagar Sai Baba temple in 2002, the Ghatkopar bus blast, and attempting to cause blasts near the Secunderabad Ganesh temple in 2004, apart from the Task Force attack of 2005 The police said that the trio revived their contact with Zahed and financed him to recruit two others to hurl hand grenades at public gatherings in the city. The appointment of Lt. Gen. Anil Chauhan as the CDS, with the rank of general, is largely being welcomed Its good that the government has decided to appoint a Chief of Defence Staff, much against the projected apprehension that it had decided to shelve the proposal, after the unfortunate demise of Gen. Bipin Rawat, who was the first incumbent. All kinds of rumours were on just as they usually are when any major decision is in the offing. The appointment of Lt. Gen. Anil Chauhan as the CDS, with the rank of general, is largely being welcomed; I for one definitely welcome it. Unfortunately, however, there is also consternation on the way forward in functioning, powers, timelines, concepts and areas of focus, including the high-profile transformational issues involving theaterisation and self-reliance in defence manufacturing. That should be expected. Its a sea change which is being attempted and that is being done in the face of live threats at the borders, maritime and continental, in an increasingly volatile world. There are ongoing conflicts and potential ones, all affecting Indias security interests. On top of that, Indias rising strategic status is converting it into a middle, rising and swing power, all at one time, thus increasing the stakes like never before. Lets take the issue progressively, instead of the first off the block kind of assessment. Whats at stake at the outset is the suitability of the personality and the manner in which he was appointed. That is of least concern. The government did just the right thing. It legally expanded the ambit of catchment to allow a personality senior in service to the three serving chiefs to fit the bill. Then it gave time to allow the environment to absorb it through debate, objections and endorsement. Gen. Anil Chauhans selection merits no discussion because there seems complete convergence on his abilities. More than enough field and staff experience across both the China and Pakistan fronts, and a short stint as military adviser to the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) has probably added to his acceptance. He will bring his own intellect, competence, experience and leadership skills to the job. For me, the most important thing is leadership skills. His professional faculties are not in doubt, its the ability to meander through a highly complex maze of inputs while dealing with uniformed personnel, technocrats, bureaucrats, diplomats and the political community which will be the real challenge. All this must happen while keeping the mission of attaining integration of the three services with least turbulence, maximum convergence and tight timelines. Theres no doubt that leadership is the first and foremost challenge for the CDS. Gen. Chauhan will be pelted with jargon and efforts at foisting technologies and modern concepts borrowed from foreign armed forces while progressing the entire field of integration. Indias strategic circles are mastering these but Gen.Chauhan would be well advised to follow the Vishwa Guru theme of keeping the choices according to Indias special needs. To bring that in at this early stage of discussion is simply to plant a thought. We need, for example, balance between the maritime and continental domains. China will continue to force its hand at the northern borders to keep our efforts focused there, which suit its security needs. Chinas real vulnerability is in the vast maritime domain where India now needs greater focus. Its the switch or even the attainment of balance which is the challenge. The entire gamut of collusive threats from Pakistan and China is not something that can be ignored despite the oft-mentioned perception of threats from Pakistan being no longer as significant. This is a fallacy. Pakistans independent capability of maintaining proxy capability to wear down Indias strategic security and also calibrating hybrid threats has yet not been sufficiently diluted. In addition, no one can predict the arrival of the next phase of global terror. All this will have an effect on the integration structures contemplated and will invite intense debate. The key among the new CDS challenges will be self-sufficiency and self-reliance. The atma nirbharta label will define success as budgets and the speed of adaptation by different services will become competitive. Deficiency in capability will have to be accepted as a risk even as local manufacturing catches up and Indian players, including start-ups, begin reaching commercial levels. Thus, risk identification as a subset of threat management will be a key. This cant be seen in isolation and will need a far greater consultation with the national strategic structure. One of our experiences in the past was the over-hype given to ideation and the inability to take fast-track execution to its logical conclusion. Its going to take some time to resolve the issue of command and control at the highest levels. The status of the department of military affairs (DMA) can be questioned, the entire issue of operational responsibility as against only advisory may come up and so also a host of others involving structures. These issues will place unnecessary obstacles in the way of the CDS. My recommendation is that the CDS would need some bold political and quasi-political support to evolve a working structure around which this edifice is built and corrections effected as and when needed. Ideation forever is not going to lead us to the next steps. No one should ever question the CDS political outreach to attract such support. The CDS concept is to be built on the HQ Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), which must necessarily have a highly competent think tank of its own to receive and generate intellectual thought processes and ideas. The Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) must now take on that responsibility in an expanded way. It needs to be funded and infused with greater intellectual capital having linkages to the three Services and academia. Without the enhanced involvement of the academic world, we can hardly move to the next steps to acquire a higher strategic culture which will support the next generation strategic efforts of the nation; that is what the integrated approach is all about. Noticeably, I have made no mention of functional issues such as which service has objections to integration, which should be the dominant service in a theatre and how many theatres do we need. Let this be decided by deliberations within, but a pilot project would be strongly recommended, even if it has to be for a short period. Let the CDS and his staff come up with final options, which need a short gestation period of discussion, as it happened with the change of the rules on the expanded ambit of the catchment of talent. Theary Seng was sentenced to six years in prison in June. An appeal court turned down her request for release pending her petition. The trial for treason against opposition leader Kem Sokha continues. Phnom Penh (AsiaNews/Agencies) The Supreme Court of Cambodia upheld a six-year prison sentence for Christian activist Theary Seng, who was accused of treason for supporting former opposition leader Saim Rainsy and the Cambodian National Rescue Party (CNRP), banned by Prime Minister Hun Sen. For Thearys lawyer Choung Chou-Ngy, the court decision is an "unfair". Last month, he filed an appeal to the countrys highest court after a Court of Appeal rejected a petition for release while the appeal was under consideration. The court rejected the demand saying that activists release would have affected public order. Theary, a dual US-Cambodian citizen who edited the Khmer-language translation of the Bible, was arrested a first time in 2019 after Sam Rainsy's failed attempt to return to Cambodia from self-imposed exile in Paris. More than 120 activists were arrested at the time. This regime will not let me go free, she said ahead of the June verdict. It will be an unfair and unjust verdict, because I am innocent, the others charged with me are innocent. But we are living in a dictatorship. Along with Theary, more than 50 CNRP loyalists were arrested. The Christian activist, who dressed up as a Statue of Liberty in protest, was not allowed in the courtroom to hear her verdict. Accused of plotting a revolution to overthrow the government, the CNRP was dissolved by the Supreme Court in 2017 and its current leader, Kem Sokha, arrested. In the elections held the following year, Prime Minister Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party won all the seats, prompting criticism from human rights groups. The crackdown escalated after Sam Rainsy, who led the CNRP along with Kem Sokha, said that he wanted to return to Cambodia in November 2019. Hundreds of activists and political opponents have since been arrested. A trial for treason is still underway with Kem Sokha in the dock. For human rights groups, this is only designed to silence criticism against the government. "At night we are woken up by explosions," the priest confirms. Iranian Kurdish refugee camps and resistance centres are targeted. At least 12 victims of the attacks, among them a pregnant woman. Prayers at youth mass for those fighting for freedom and rights. Tehran university under siege. 30-year-old Italian tourist among those arrested. Erbil (AsiaNews) - The echo, and the violence, linked to the protests over the death of 22 year old Iranian Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini at the hands of the morality police "have reached Iraqi Kurdistan: for days Teheran has begun bombing several areas, from Erbil to Ankawa to Sulaymaniyya, at night we are woken up by explosions. They are targeting refugee camps or centres where Kurds or Iranian dissidents, who fled long ago, live", says Fr. Samir Youssef, parish priest of the diocese of Amadiya, in Iraqi Kurdistan,. He tells AsiaNews "bombs and drone attacks have killed at least 12 people, dozens have been wounded. Among the victims, the death of a young pregnant woman in a refugee camp was particularly moving; doctors managed to save at least the baby'. The presence of the Iranian Kurds, or members of the dissidence, goes back years and is linked to high-level political agreements, tied to the fact that no attacks on Iranian territory would start from Kurdistan. "The presence of resistance bases is known," Fr. Samir confirms, "but there were no major problems and, unlike Turkey with the PKK, Tehran did not strike. But after the girl's death, and the beginning of the demonstrations, the situation changed and even our territory became a target to strike, fuelling a climate of tension and fear". The story of the young Kurdish girl, he emphasises, has had "wide echo in the regional and national media, with widespread support for the Iranian people and their legitimate demand for freedom and rights". Meanwhile, reports of repression endorsed by the authorities continue to arrive from Iran. According to Amnesty International sources, the Tehran government has ordered the security forces to repress demonstrations 'severely and without mercy'. For the activist movement, there are documents dating back to 21 September from the headquarters of the Armed Forces and directed to the commanders of the various departments in which they ask them to 'deal with the anti-revolutionaries and troublemakers with the utmost severity'. Another document on the 23rd for Mazandran province urges to 'deal ruthlessly, to the point of causing deaths, with any disturbances by insurgents and anti-revolutionaries'. However, the threats and violence of the ayatollahs do not stop the wave of protest that continues in the streets, squares and even campuses, which are under siege. This is the case of the Sharif University in Tehran, where violent clashes between agents - even plainclothes departments - and students have taken place. Last night elements of the Basij militia "surrounded the campus and opened fire" using rubber bullets and "arresting at least a hundred people, including students and teachers". In a video posted on social networks, despite the network blockade imposed by the authorities, students are seen being chased by policemen and being arrested at the gates of the university, now more akin to a prison. Among those arrested is the journalist who first spread the news of Mahsa's death. She is Niloofar Hamedi, who for several years had been covering news stories about the morality police and its influence - growing since the rise to the presidency of the ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi - on Iranian society. In the meantime, the toll has risen to at least 133 dead, over a thousand (but it is difficult to have reliable estimates) people arrested by the security forces. Among them is also an Italian girl, Alessia Piperno, a 30-year-old tourist (apparently uninvolved in the protests, despite having written about them on her social channels) and arrested on her birthday. During the night, the family's desperate appeal on social media, asking for help from the government in Rome to obtain her release. Fr. Samir underlines that "even among Iranian Christians there is deep concern about what is happening". And the street protests over the death of Mahsa Amini were also the subject of debate and discussion at the diocese's youth meeting, promoted by the same priest: "The girls feel touched by the event, they are sad and feel pain over the deaths and the videos in which they cut their hair. However, they support their battle for freedom and rights just as strongly, and in the masses we have celebrated over the past few days, we have also wanted to pray for them". by Vladimir Rozanskij The aim is to reach Kazakhstan to avoid ending up on the Ukrainian front. They come from all over Russia, especially Moscow and St. Petersburg. Many flee from the Crimea annexed in 2014. The "queue business" at border crossings. Moscow (AsiaNews) - The flight from military mobilisation in Russia continues despite increasingly strict measures to prevent it. One of the most heavily trafficked corridors is the passage from the Caucasus to Kazakhstan, the real border between Europe and Asia, where queues of cars, motorbikes and ordinary pedestrians now exceed 20 kilometres and two days of waiting. Moreover, there are no guarantees that they will be able to get through, since at all border crossings the guards are in possession of the lists of mobilised persons, and border posts are being organised for conscription. The categories of fugitives are, moreover, rather articulated. A distinction is made between the 'uklonisty' (decliners), who look for any excuse not to be enlisted: feigning illness, bribing officials and ignorance of the call-up; the 'otkazniki' (renunciates), who refuse to fight because of their pacifist and anti-militarist convictions; the 'dezertiry', deserters who flee from military facilities or offices where they are identified. According to UN criteria, all those who refuse to take part in a conflict condemned by the international community are entitled to refugee status. These definitions are questioned at border posts. The Krasnodar province in the Astrakhan region, around the Caspian Sea, is crowded with cars with licence plates from all over Russia, mainly from Moscow and St. Petersburg, but also from Rostov-on-Don and Belgorod, the Russian cities closest to the war zones. There are many Crimeans, who in the eight years since the annexation have not fully matured their loyalty to the Russian 'motherland'. Krym.Realii journalists have tried to learn more about the stories of these people, who obviously have little intention of revealing the details. There are family groups from the Donbass and the newly annexed provinces of Russia, who have sought their way out of Crimea. A 55-year-old university graduate, who wishes to remain anonymous, says he did his military service in the Ukrainian Crimea in his time, being originally from Donetsk, and now he is supposed to be fighting against many of his fellow soldiers who are on the opposite side, so he is trying to get out of everything and leave all borders behind. Everyone hopes to be more protected in Kazakhstan, a country where anyone can feel at home, despite a thousand mistrusts and difficulties. The route from Astrakhan is also the cheapest. Even in Georgia, tariffs and bribes have become unaffordable; on the Caspian you can eat 'plov' (Asian risotto) for 500 roubles, a tomato and cucumber salad for 100 roubles and a bottle of water for 300, since after two or three days of waiting, supplies are running low. The Crimeans try to take advantage of the Kerc bridge, a Putin pride that the Ukrainians have promised to destroy, through which they manage to approach the freedom crossings. The inhabitants of Astrakhan in turn try to cross to the other side. 'We were foolish not to have thought of this sooner,' says one local resident, 'when there weren't all these queues yet, we thought we were favoured by the proximity of the borders, and now we're all stuck'. Dmitry from Rostov explains that 'during the queue we take turns sleeping to spot the policemen and hide in the woods, we only leave my aunt and the dogs in the car'. There is also the possibility of relying on guides to accompany you through 4-5 kilometres of forest for 2,500 roubles each. The most sought-after bargain is to buy a place in the queue within a kilometre of the border, with a good chance of crossing it: it costs 40,000 roubles, just under USD 1,000. Organising the business of food and places in the queue are often people who have fought in Ukraine, like 21-year-old Danijar: 'I came back in August and they still haven't paid me, they say we have to apply all together and not alone, in the meantime I try to survive as best I can'. Alongside the 'queue professionals', however, there are also volunteers, mainly from Buddhist Kalmykia, who organise waiting camps with tents, providing food and rest hoping for better times. Francis meets with the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who are present in 70 countries of the world. It is a tragedy when the ministers of the Church abandon the poor, he said. One should let oneself be evangelised by the poor when meeting them. Vatican City (AsiaNews) Pope Francis met today with members of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) who are in Rome for their General Chapter. During the meeting they elected Spanish-born Fr Luis Ignacio Rois as their new superior general. In his address, the pontiff said: One should oneself be evangelised by the poor one evangelises. [. . . ] As disciples of Jesus and followers of your founder Saint Eugene de Mazenod, you are called to bring the Gospel of hope, joy, and peace" to a world that seems to have reached goals that seemed unattainable, yet is still a slave to selfishness and full of contradictions, of divisions. The cry of the earth and that of the poor, wars and conflicts that have shed blood on human history, the distressing situation of millions of migrants and refugees, an economy that makes the rich ever richer and the poor ever poorer are some aspects of a scenario where only the Gospel can keep the light of hope alive. Speaking about the orders founder, de Mazenod, Francis noted that he became a traveller, "walking with his first companions in the villages of his native Provence, preaching missions amid the people, and bringing back to faith the poor who had left and whom even the ministers of the Church had abandoned. It is a tragedy when the ministers of the Church abandon the poor. Today the Oblates of Mary Immaculate are present in 70 countries around the world, including Asia. "To this Church, which the founder taught you to love like a mother, offer your missionary zeal and life, sharing in its exodus to the edges of the world loved by God, and living a charism that leads you to the farthest, the poorest, those whom no one reaches. With respect to this journey, the pontiff stressed the importance of two dimensions: hope and communion. For him, Being missionaries of hope means knowing how to read the signs of its hidden presence in the daily life of the people. Similarly, it means learning to recognise hope among the poor to whom you are sent, who often manage to find it amid the most difficult situations. One should oneself be evangelised by the poor one evangelises: they teach you the way of hope, for the Church and the world. As for communion, "today, it is a challenge on which the future of the world, the Church and consecrated life can rely. To be missionaries of communion we must, first of all, live it among ourselves, in our communities, in mutual relationships, and then nurture it with everyone without exception. May the Good Samaritan of the Gospel be an example and an incentive to bring you close to every person, with the love and tenderness that led him to take care of the robbed and wounded man. Lastly, since the Chapter focused on protecting creation as our common home, the pontiff encouraged the Oblates of Mary Immaculate to continue working in this direction. "Our Mother Earth feeds us without asking for anything in return; it is up to us to understand that she cannot continue to do so if we do not also take care of her. These are all aspects of that conversion to which the Lord continually calls us. Returning to the common Father, returning to the sources, returning to the first love that led you to leave everything to follow Jesus: This is the soul of consecration and mission. US and Philippine marines today began exercises in the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait, near Taiwan. According to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the Chinese claim territories that belong to the Philippines. US and Japanese forces are engaged in drills on Hokkaido Island; Chinese and Russians forces recently carried out joint naval exercises in the area. Washington (AsiaNews) US and Philippine forces today began joint military exercises, codenamed Kamandag. For two weeks, some 2,500 US and 600 Philippine marines will take part in drills that include amphibious landings and humanitarian assistance operations. Japanese and South Korean observers will be present. The manoeuvres are being held in two distinct regions of the Philippines: Palawan Island in the South China Sea, and Luzon Strait, which separates Philippine territory from Taiwan. China claims 90 per cent of the South China Sea, something that the Philippines and other regional actors, including the United States, reject. For its part, Taiwan has come under heavy political and military pressure from Communist China with reunification as the ultimate goal. Since taking office in June, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has returned to a more "balanced" policy between the United States, its formal ally, and China, both which are engaged in a regional power game. This represents a change in direction from his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, who, during the first part of his mandate, focused on building closer relations with China to gain economic advantages that never materialised. In his recent visit to New York for the annual session of the UN Assembly, Marcos Jr clearly explained his country's position. The position that the Philippines takes is that we have no territorial conflict with China. What we have is China claiming territory that belongs to the Philippines, he explained. After meeting US President Joe Biden, the Philippine leader noted the role played by the United States in maintaining the peace in our region is something that is much appreciated by all the countries in the regions and the Philippines especially. Meanwhile, at least 3,000 US marines are currently engaged in military exercises with Japanese forces in Hokkaido, Japan's northern island. Recently, Chinese and Russian naval forces carried out joint exercises not far from where the US-Japanese forces are active. It is noteworthy that after Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the US House of Representatives, visited Taiwan in August, China launched "punitive exercises" that included firing ballistic missiles into Japans exclusive economic zone near the Sakishima Islands, Okinawa prefecture. The area includes the Senkaku Islands, in the East China Sea, which the Chinese call Diaoyu and claim as their own even though they are administered by Japan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during the launch of 5G services in India at the 6th India Mobile Congress, at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. (PTI Photo/Atul Yadav) New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the 5G telephony services that promise to provide ultra high-speed internet on mobile phones, saying it marks the beginning of a new era and presents a sea of opportunities. The Prime Minister launched 5G services in select cities at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2022 conference. The services will progressively cover the entire country over the next couple of years. "5G marks the dawn of a new era and presents a sea of opportunities," he said. While the nation was dependent on foreign countries for technology for 2G, 3G and 4G telecom services, India has created history with 5G, he said. The Prime Minister said his government's vision for 'Digital India' was founded on four pillars -- the cost of devices, digital connectivity, data cost and digital-first approach. This approach has led to mobile manufacturing units in India increasing from just two in 2014 to over 200 now, bringing down the cost of handsets. Stating that India now has the world's lowest data charges, he said from Rs 300 per 1 GB of data in 2014, tariffs have come down to Rs 10 per GB. Going by the average consumption of 14 GB of data per month, the data cost has come down from Rs 4,200 to Rs 125-150, he said. From zero exports, the country is now shipping phones worth crores of rupees. Also, digital payments have increased, he pointed out. Technology has truly now become democratised, he said. Taking a dig at the previous Congress-led UPA government, he said this was possible because of the right intentions of his government. "2G ki niyat and 5G ki niyat mein yehi farak hai (this is the difference between the intentions during 2G era and 5G era now)," he said in reference to the alleged 2G spectrum allocation scam. Capable of supporting ultra-high-speed internet, the fifth generation or 5G service is expected to unleash new economic opportunities and societal benefits, serving as a transformational force for Indian society. After the launch, all three major telecom operators demonstrated one use case to show the potential of 5G technology in India. Billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio connected a teacher from a school in Mumbai with students in three different locations in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Odisha. This demonstrated how 5G will facilitate education by bringing teachers closer to students, obliviating the physical distance between them. It also demonstrated the power of Augmented Reality (AR) on screen and how that is being used to teach children across the country, remotely, without the need of an AR device. Modi interacted with school children in the demo case, asking them about their favourite subject and how the use of technology has helped in learning. The Vodafone Idea test case demonstrated the safety of workers in an under-construction tunnel of Delhi Metro through the creation of a 'digital twin' of the tunnel on the dias. The digital twin will help give safety alerts to workers in real-time from a remote location. Modi interacted with Lt Governor of Delhi V K Saxena as well as the workers in the tunnel. In the Airtel demo, a girl from Uttar Pradesh witnessed a lively and immersive education experience to learn about the solar system with the help of virtual reality and augmented reality. The girl shared her experience of learning with the Prime Minister by appearing on the dias through a hologram. CVT On the inside, Toyota upgraded the standard and optional infotainment systems. The 8.0-inch Display Audio and 10.5-inch Display Audio Plus both come with cordless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto in the Japanese market. Toyota also sweetens the deal with updated software.Toyota Safety Sense now comes with expanded functionality. The highlight is a nameless feature well call junction assist, which detects oncoming vehicles when turning right at an intersection. Junction assist also detects pedestrians when turning left or right. Proactive Driving Assist is the second highlight, a feature that supports the driver's steering and braking operation to avoid getting too close to parked vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.Prospective customers will be happy to hear that every single powerplant has been improved for the 2023 model year in this part of the world. The hybrid powertrain, for example, is rocking a more powerful electric motor that generates more power and torque than the pre-facelift. E-Four all-wheel drive is available on the sedan and wagon, adding a rear-mounted electric motor that belts out 41 ps (40 horsepower) and 84 Nm (62 lb-ft).The four-door sedan and five-door wagon further boast a 1.5-liter Dynamic Force engine that replaces the 1.8-liter mill of yesteryear. Codenamed M15A-FKS, the newcomer makes 120 ps and 145 Nm (107 pound-foot) as opposed to 140 ps and 170 Nm (125 pound-foot) for the 2ZR-FAE. Designed specifically for gas mileage, the 1.5-liter Dynamic Force engine features the Direct Shiftrather than the pre-facelifts Super CVT-i.Last but certainly not least, the Corolla Sport five-door hatchback gets a 2.0-liter Dynamic Force lump that replaces the 8NR-FTS turbocharged 1.2-liter unit of the pre-facelift. The Atkinson-cycle engine makes 170 ps (168 hp) and 202 Nm (149 lb-ft). Its solely offered with the Direct Shift CVT, whereas its predecessor could be had with the Super CVT-i or a manual. Its a Catch-22-type of situation, where major airliners know that change is needed, but arent willing to make it yet because theres money to be made from the current situation. At the same time, perhaps many of those flying are aware of the way it impacts the environment, but they still choose it because its cheaper and more convenient than other means of travel. Meanwhile, our planet is burning Following one of the hottest summers on record, which again sparked massive fires and other types of unusual weather phenomena, international art collective Brandalism is back in the headlines with a new guerrilla campaign. Theyre using their now-usual brand of subvertising to ring the alarm on the role advertising plays in the current situation. If were going to break the circle and push for change, it might as well start with the marketing for these airliners.October is Commercials Month here on autoevolution, and while this isnt a commercial per se, its still a good fit because it turns the tables on the commercials used by airliners to attract more customers. This time, though, these faux-ads are speaking the truth, even if its not one well like: the more we fly, the closer to death our planet comes. Theres no sense in looking away anymore, and theres definitely no excuse to letting ourselves distracted.Much like celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Drake and Taylor Swift were called out earlier this year for their excessive and many times ridiculous use of their private jets , this is a call to arms to save our planet, masquerading as an attack on companies like Ryanair, KLM, Lufthansa, British Airways, or Easyjet. The guerrilla campaign includes the appearance of fake ads in major European cities like Barcelona, Brussels, Bristol, London, Amsterdam, Rome, Norwich, and Paris, highlighting the reality behind airline marketing.Say Yes To The End Of The World, one poster urges, while another renames Ryanair as Ruinair, specializing in world trashing prices, and offering Low fares to plastic island. The text on these posters might be different, but the message is the same: airliners sell a rosy picture of a future that will not exist if we continue buying into the lie, and we continue flying. Marketing plays a vital role in the way these flights reach the end consumer, so they must be banned.The allure and glamour of high carbon lifestyles such as frequent flying has been purposefully crafted by the advertising industry and shows no signs of relenting despite one of the hottest summers on record, Tona Merriman from Brandalism says. Advertising agencies such as Ogilvy, VCCP, Dentsu, DDB Munchen need to consider their role in driving up emissions for airlines they work for such as British Airways, Easyjet, KLM and Lufthansa. We call on employees in those firms to refuse work for high carbon clients.At the same time, Brandalism is hoping that spreading word of mouth will lead to concrete action on an international scale , so its urging people to sign the petition asking for the ban of fossil ads. They compare the ads for airline companies to commercials for cigarettes, which were eventually banned after years of pushback from the tobacco industry. Smoking is still a widespread reality, but at the very least it has a much reduced reach because its not being glorified by marketing anymore.Brandalism offers a very recent example of how marketing is used to sell a much more polished and flattering view of reality, in the hope of distracting from the real issue . This summer, as London was boiling at 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit, which is unheard of for the British capital), EasyJet ran newspaper ads that suggested cooling down in Portugal, and offered cheaper fares to that destination. This is the equivalent of sipping a can of ice-cold Pepsi (or Coke, your choice), while the house is burning around you. It might feel good for a fraction of a second, but youre still going to die.Thats a very blunt way of putting it but, still, its a far more elegant way of raising awareness than whatever drastic measures Extinction Rebellion comes up with. Even if such a heavy dose of realism wasnt what you were hoping for when you clicked this article, at the very least, it will have made you think about the issue for one second longer than you would have otherwise. SUV kWh Who did it better? UPower or Citroen? pic.twitter.com/dttfZcvhQh Greg Kable (@GregKable) September 29, 2022 The first person to notice the resemblance was the journalist Greg Kable. He asked in a tweet who did it better: UPower or Citroen. We let that to our readers to decide. What we can say is who did it first: UPower presented itsin January 2022. In fact, it presented five vehicles and its Super Board, an electric frame that underpins all five models. One of them was the SUV.While the designs of the Citroen concept and that of the UPower SUV are pretty similar, the vehicles follow very different concepts. The oli was created to be lightweight and affordable, while the UPower SUV did not seem to have any purpose other than showing how versatile the UPower Super Board was.According to the Chinese company, this electric frame will allow the vehicles based on it to have a range of 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) and offer 1,000 trillion or tera operations per second (TOPS) of computing power. As a comparison, the NIO ES7 gets 1,056 TOPS, and the Tesla Model 3 has only 144 TOPS.UPower did not mention how light the SUV or even only the Super Board was. With a ranger of 1,000 km, it would have to offer at least a 100-battery pack if it had the same energy consumption as the oli (10 kWh/100 km or 6.2 mi/kWh). The larger battery pack alone would certainly make that number higher.Unlike the UPower SUV, the oli has a bed in the back that can be expanded with a midgate. The Chinese vehicle is more conventional in that as well as in the front doors, bumpers and other identical components that the oli presents. The UPower SUV gets unique components for each side of its sides.As different as these concept cars are in essence, their striking styling resemblances make them an interesting pair: same shapes, very different propositions. kW In 2003, when it was built, the 377-foot (115 meters) Pelorus was the 11th biggest yacht i n the world. Custom-built by the prestigious Lurssen in Germany, it was the new luxury toy of a Saudi businessman. And he treated it like a toy after just one indulging cruise, he had already put it up for sale. The one to grab it was none other than the famous Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who would add the second helipad.After the oligarchs divorce, the luxury yacht was purchased by the Dreamworks co-founder, David Geffen, but shortly after, it was sold again, this time to the Royal Family of Abu Dhabi. In 2016, it was reportedly bought by Samuel Tak Lee, a real estate mogul who allegedly owns several impressive superyachts.Also used as an extravagant party boat by his son, Tak Lees superyacht is now looking for another owner, according to Superyacht Times. Looking back at its history, that probably wont be hard to find. Pelorus is a floating masterpiece designed by two of the greatest names in the industry. Tim Heywood is responsible for its distinctive silhouette, with details inspired by the armor belt on the Royal Navys HMS Belfast.This massive vessel boasts no less than four swimming pools and two helipads, in addition to nine large staterooms. Its giant tender garage is also big enough to house multiple smaller boats, plus various water toys.As Boat International points out, Pelorus is more than a yacht; its a ship its twin 3,900Wartsila V12 engines are the kind that power car ferries, and its four 465 kVA alternators are powerful enough for a smaller town. Despite its mammoth size, Pelorus can hit 20 knots (23 mph/37 kph) or cruise for up to 6,000 nautical miles (6,904 miles/11,100 km) at lower speeds.As for its interior, Terence Disdale turned this massive ship into the luxury version of an informal beach house. But only the next lucky (and very wealthy) owner will be able to enjoy all of that. This 1971 Honda CB750 has been in the current owners possession for the past ten years, over the course of which it was refurbished from head to toe. As part of the restoration procedure, the motorcycles bodywork got repainted and fitted with replacement badges, while its two-up saddle was swapped with a much sprightlier alternative.We find Duro tires and fresh spokes down in the unsprung sector, along with new brake lines, shoes, and pads fitted last year. Furthermore, the CB750 Four K1 saw its original handlebar replaced, and Nippon Denso instrumentation rebuilt, subsequently receiving a youthful drive chain for good measure.In terms of engine-related mods, this specimens four-banger features newly-installed piston rings, seals, and gaskets, as well as modern spark plugs and ignition points, among other goodies. Exhaust gases get channeled out into the atmosphere via replacement pipes, which are complemented by rebuilt carburetors at the opposite end of the combustion cycle. Honda s vintage treasure obtains its grunt from a 736cc inline-four mill with quad 28 mm (1.1-inch) Keihin inhalers, 9:1 compression, and eight valves motioned through a single overhead cam. The air-cooled power source has a factory-rated output numbering 67 ponies and 44 pound-feet (60 Nm) of torque at its disposal.Making its way to the rear wheel through a five-speed gearbox, this force lets the CB750 hit speeds of up to 124 mph (200 kph). Suspension is handled by 35 mm (1.4-inch) telescopic forks and twin preload-adjustable shocks, while braking comes from a single disc up front and a traditional drum at the rear.The restored Japanese artifact weve just inspected is now heading to auction at no reserve, and you may check it out on Bring a Trailer until Wednesday, October 5. At the time of this article, youd need to spend north of $10k in order to become the leading bidder, so we hope you werent expecting to score this 71 MY gem for cheap. EV The letter Rivian sent to reservation holders in Canada does not offer a specific date, but this year is pretty specific, considering there are only three months left of 2022. As expected, the first region to benefit is British Columbia, considering previous rumors about the service center opening in Vancouver. Rivian promised the rest of Canada would follow starting next year, according to Drive Tesla About that service center in Vancouver, Rivian confirmed that it is now up and running. The company is also building new service facilities in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta. The service centers, named Customer Engagement Center at Rivian, will offer demo drives, conduct deliveries, and install accessories, besides regular vehicle service. They are instrumental to Rivians ability to start delivering vehicles. For now, only the Vancouver center is in operation, with other provinces planned for next year.Rivian also promised to expand promotional activities throughout Canada, besides offering demo drives to potential customers. These would include viewing events, with the first one scheduled in the Vancouver area toward the end of October or early November. This would allow prospective buyers to see the Rivian R1T and R1S in person.Transport Canada granted Rivian the operating permit on September 29, following a bit of a drama. The authority asked for more documents from the U.S.maker, and it was enough for many news outlets to report that Rivians application was rejected. But, as the EV maker clarified, it was just a matter of feeding the right papers into the bureaucratic machine. This means that Rivian can now stick with initial plans to deliver the first vehicles in Canada by the end of 2022. It is definitely not the most inspired rendering of the luxury grand tourer that we have seen so far, but at the same time, its not as disgusting as it sounds. The digital illustrations have adry53customs behind them, and they retain the body of the car up to a point.The nose has become much pointier. It has a narrower and less imposing grille, flanked by a pair of vertical headlights. The Spirit of Ecstasy still sits in front of the new hood, and the door hinges are still mounted on the B pillars.At the back, it hasnt been changed that much, though it does have a bigger diffuser with trim meant to replicate the looks of exhaust tips. However, the exhaust pipes now sit on the sides, below the doors, and we can only imagine what the ingress and egress would be like with a hot engine.Another highlight of the build, albeit not the one that stands out the most, is the transparent hood that lets virtual bystanders check out the twin-turbo 6.6-liter V12. And speaking of the thing that stands out the most, that would be the new set of wheels, as it is this mod that contributes to the hot rod feel.Those who are familiar with the stuff that we write about on a daily basis are probably thinking that this story is a repost. And they wouldnt be wrong, because we covered it last week . However, we now get to see it from different angles, and since its not every day that we lay eyes on a true Rolls-Royce hot rod, we decided to put the spotlight on it again. So, whats your take on this CGI project overall? Reduced costs of living and mobility are some of the main advantages associated with the tiny house lifestyle. But another perk that shouldnt be overlooked is that families can get homes that are perfectly tailored to their needs in just a few months, literally delivered to their doorstep.Considering how hard it is to build or find a conventional house that fits the bill, this alternative sounds really good. Especially if were talking about a tiny home with two lofts that can accommodate up to six people.The team at Vagabond Haven has something for everyone from the tiniest houses with an office configuration to spacious family homes boasting two lofts. One of these is Porto, a 7.3-meter-long (23.9 feet) model that manages to fit the luxuries of a conventional house within 25 square meters (269 square feet).The Scandinavian minimalist style is still very popular, and this Swedish brand knows how to do it right. What you get is a beautiful wooden house thats packed with modern appliances while still being easy to pull behind a car at 80 kph (49.7 mph).Porto comes with installed electricity, plumbing, and ventilation and can be fully customized, with a building time of a maximum of 5 months. The small kitchen is fitted with all the basics and can include a dishwasher and a protective glass panel as well.The bathroom is built with wet-room-approved walls and fitted with a shower cabin, a toiler, and a cupboard with a washing basin. Customers can choose their preferred type of toilet, an electric or gas hot water heater, and the floor material. If theres no need for another bedroom, the second loft is versatile enough to be configured in different ways.There are many options available for this tiny house, including off-grid ones. You can check them all out at Vagabond Haven - pricing for the bright and airy Porto starts at 37,674 ($37,000). Today we came across a beautiful replica of the iconic Knight Bus from the Harry Potter fantasy series, a custom motorhome that is available as a vacation rental in Kodak, Tennessee. It is a two-story bus converted into a home on wheels that promises to take its guests to the magical land of witches and wizards.This replica Knight Bus is based on a 1916 Victorian-style trolley that was used in the 1982 Worlds Fair and was aptly baptized The Wizards Trolley. It offers accommodation for four guests in two bedrooms with queen-sized beds. The motorhome is also equipped with a full kitchen, a living room with TV, a bathroom, as well as a fire pit and a covered, outdoor hot tub.Just like the triple-decker that offered stranded individuals of the wizarding a means of transportation, the Wizards Trolley is painted purple on the outside and features a themed interior design . A chandelier hangs from a chain in the center of the bus rental, and the living area/TV room is on the upper floor, accessed via a ladder.For the convenience of the guests, the motorhome features a full kitchen equipped with an oven/stove, microwave, full-sized refrigerator, dishwasher, as well as a dining table for four and a washer/dryer combo.This unique Harry Potter-themed Airbnb rental is the first dwelling of the Forgotten Forest, which welcomes guests with the Stone Circle, a labyrinth, and a giant sword, all of which help you immerse into the imaginary world of witches and wizards.Lovers of the outdoors have plenty of places to visit nearby, too, as the bus vacation rental is located close to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.If you are a fan of the fantasy series and want to bring out your inner child, know that you can book a stay at this Harry Potter-themed Airbnb rental for $228 per night. Indian Air Force fighter jets were scrambled to intercept a foreign aircraft with its origin in Iran that was moving towards the New Delhi airspace. (Representational image:ANI) New Delhi: Indian Air Force fighter jets were scrambled to intercept an aircraft with its origin in Iran and headed to China, which was moving towards New Delhi airspace. According to sources, inputs were received at 9:20 am by Delhi Police about a bomb threat on board a Mahan Air flight headed to Guangzhou in China from Tehran in Iran. It triggered an alert and permission was not granted for the plane to land in Delhi and the plane was instructed by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to divert to Jaipur. Reportedly the pilot refused to divert the plane following which Indian Air Force jets were scrambled to intercept and escort the plane. The aircraft was headed to China as its final destination, had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane, sources told ANI. Data from Filghtradar24 showed the plane reducing altitude over the Delhi-Jaipur airspace for a brief period before it was seen making its way out of Indian airspace. According to ATC sources, Mahan Air requested for immediate landing at Delhi airport but Delhi ATC directed it to head to Jaipur Airport. The pilots of the Iranian carrier did not do so and eventually left Indian airspace. The nature of the bomb threat is still unclear. The plane was seen continuing on its flight path towards China. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration According to documents filed with the, tooling equipment had not been correctly set up after a maintenance operation. Brake fluid leaks can lead to an increase in stopping distance, which may increase the risk of a crash, highlights Volkswagen.In case of a brake fluid leak, the warning light will promptly illuminate in the instrument panel. Owners may also experience increased brake pedal travel or the pedal feeling softer than it normally does. Volkswagen further notes that brake fluid leaks may happen exclusively at the threaded connections.A grand total of 532 vehicles are called back stateside, of which one percent are believed to exhibit this problem. Affected vehicles were produced between September 1st and September 15th. The Atlas three-row crossover accounts for 326 units, followed by 206 units of the coupe-styled sibling.No fewer than six involved components are listed in the attached report, all of them produced by Sanoh America Inc. of Scottsboro, Alabama. Fortunately for all parties involved, the Volkswagen Group of America is not aware of any field complaints related to this problem. Volkswagen says that additional checks and process improvements were implemented on September 16th.Known owners will be notified by first-class mail on November 23rd, the day U.S. dealers will be informed to replace the brake lines on the affected vehicles at no cost to the owner. As opposed to the recalled components, the remedy brake lines are said to be correctly manufactured.Priced from $34,600 excluding destination charge, the Atlas is manufactured at the Chattanooga Assembly Plant alongside the two-row Atlas Cross Sport. The more stylish body style is available from $33,910. A representative image Chandigarh Punjab Police busted Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) backed drone-based Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) terror module and apprehended two of its operatives from Chamkaur Sahib area, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav on Sunday. According to Punjab Police, the terror module is being operated by Canada-based terrorist/gangster Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dala, who is a close associate of KTF's Canada-based chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Those arrested have been identified as Veeja Singh alias Gagan alias Gaggu, a resident of Chand Nava village in Moga and Ranjodh Singh alias Jyoti, a resident of Ganji Gulab Singh Wala village in Moga. The Police also recovered two illegal weapons including a 0.22 bore revolver and 0.32 bore pistol along with 21 live cartridges from their possession. The development came four days after Police had recovered an AK-47 assault rifle along with two magazines and 60 live cartridges from a pinpointed location at the paddy fields of village Arifke in Ferozepur. Police investigations revealed that the consignment was dropped using a drone on the direction of terrorist/gangster Arsh Dala and was intended to be retrieved by Veeja Singh and Ranjodh Singh from Arifke village. Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said that after the recovery of the weapons from Ferozepur, an intelligence-led operation was launched across the state to nab the accused persons. Acting on inputs, Rupnagar Police has managed to arrest both the accused persons from Chamkaur Sahib area during the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday. DGP Yadav said that during preliminary investigations, arrested persons confessed that they had gone to Arifke village to retrieve this consignment on directions of terrorist/gangster Arsh Dala but could not find it, and later, it was recovered by the Ferozepur Police on the information of a field owner. "Both accused have also confessed to having received few drone-based weapon consignments to further deliver them at specific locations as directed by Canada-based Terrorist/Gangster Arsh Dala, which was to be used further for major target killings to disturb communal harmony of the state," said the DGP. An FIR has been registered under section 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 25 of the Arms Act at Chamkaur Sahib police station. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rupnagar, Sandeep Garg said that further investigations are underway and more arrests are expected soon. According to Police, Canada-based Arsh Dala, a native of Dala village in Moga, is a notorious gangster turned terrorist involved in various criminal activities in Punjab and abroad, and is most wanted by the Punjab Police. His involvement had also emerged in various targeted killings that took place in the border state of Punjab, besides, in cases of supplying militant hardware including RDX, IEDs, AK-47 and other arms and ammunition to modules in the state after getting them imported from Pakistan, said police. ALSO READ : Sheikh Hasina: chief architect of Bangladesh's turnaround DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the process is on to extradite Arsh Dala from Canada and soon, he will be brought to India. Notably, the Red Corner Notice against Arsh Dala has already been issued in May 2022. India-Saudi Arabia relations have seen a huge improvemnet under PM Modi New Delhi India has received unusual praise from Saudi Arabia's World Muslim League for its policy of non-violence and tolerance towards all. The Mecca-based World Muslim League timed its praise for India's Global and National outlook on Gandhi Jayanti- something which Saudi Arabia-based Islamic Group has never done before. Hailing Mahatma Gandhi for being a pioneer of the philosophy of non-violence, the Muslim World League, for the first time, paid tribute to Gandhi on his 153rd birth anniversary and said that the day should be an occasion to spread the message of non-violence internationally. It added that October 2 should be used as an opportune day to spread the message of non-violence on an international level. The Muslim World League is an international non-governmental Islamic organization based out of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Mecca or Makkah is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and is the location of Islam's holiest place Ka'aba. October 2 also coincides with the International Day of Non-Violence. Notably, there has been a paradigm shift in the relationship between the two countries under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit of PM Narendra Modi to Riyadh in April 2016 captured the spirit of enhanced cooperation in the political, economic, security and defence realms. During the visit, King Salman conferred the Kingdom's highest civilian honour on Prime Minister Modi, indicating the importance Saudi Arabia attached to its relations with India. The visit of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman to India in February 2019 further took forward this momentum. During the visit, it was announced that the Kingdom would invest approximately USD 100 billion in India. ALSO READ: MoS Muraleedharan to embark on 2-day Oman visit Six MoUs/Agreements were signed in the fields of investment, tourism, housing, exchange of audio-visual programmes, and an agreement was signed to pave way for Saudi Arabia to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which was launched by Prime Minister Modi. The gruesome video was posted on Azerbaijani social media accounts early in the morning. The soldiers can be seen being shot dead at what looks like a frontline position. We can confirm the authenticity of the video, Armenias human rights ombudswoman, Kristine Grigorian, said in a statement released later in the day. Grigorian said experts from her office believe that it was shot on September 13 hours after Azerbaijani forces attacked and seized some of the Armenian army positions along the border. Their conclusion, she said, is based on the examination of the terrain, weather conditions, military uniforms and a conversation of Azerbaijani military personnel heard in the footage. The international community should strongly condemn and address this war crime and take appropriate measures to halt Azerbaijans aggression, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said, for his part. Armenia will use all available international mechanisms to ensure investigation and accountability, Pashinian wrote on Twitter. The Armenian Foreign Ministry likewise called for an international inquiry into the appalling war crimes committed by the Azerbaijani armed forces in this and previous periods. Another horrible video has emerged of Armenian prisoners of war apparently being executed, tweeted Toivo Klaar, the European Unions special envoy to the South Caucasus. If this video is proven to be authentic, then this is a war crime that needs to be investigated and the perpetrators punished. There was no immediate official reaction to the video from the Azerbaijani government. Late last month the authorities in Yerevan accused the Azerbaijani military of executing at least two other Armenian soldiers taken prisoner during the September 13-14 hostilities. One of them was a woman. Armenias top army general, Eduard Asrian, pointed to a social media video of her mutilated body circulated by Azerbaijani users. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Wolfspeed, Inc. Announces Date of Fiscal First Quarter Earnings Call and Investor Day for October 2022 HYDERABAD: The GHMC in coordination with the culture department has made elaborate arrangements for Saddula Bathukamma on Monday. Approximately 3,000 women are expected to carry flower-bedecked deity on their heads in a procession up to Hussainsagar for immersion. The festival celebrated mainly by women and girls focuses on promotion, enhancement and amalgamation of elements like flowers, nature and water to promote the well-being of people in villages and towns. The corporation has set up 74 baby ponds to facilitate immersion of Bathukamma on Monday and Durga idols later. Authorities informed that about 10,000 women will visit Tank Bund for the floral festival. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Mamidi Harikrishna, director of culture department, said that women will carry 3,000 Bathukammas from LB Nagar to immerse them at Tank Bund. He said about 10,000 women from adjoining areas of the Hussainsagar will participate in the event, which will begin at 5 pm. Harikrishna said women are participating in huge numbers this season as there are no Covid-19 protocols. Surprisingly, there are many coming from Kukatpally, Dilsukhnagar and other pockets where Telanganites population is quite less. He said people from other states, including Maharashtra, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Assam have been actively participating in Bathukamma festivities, which is a good sign. The culture department chief said that apartments in the city have become a mini-India, where people from different communities, cultures and states have been participating in the event. Harikrishna said that the Bathukamma festivities are not any more local but global with people cutting across nations to celebrate the floral festival. He informed that the Telangana government is spending Rs 10 crore on the festivities. The civic body has spent about Rs 1 crore for arrangements at all Bathukamma ghats. The corporation has also installed temporary public toilets for men and women separately. Besides this, they have made a special 500-metre fresh water tank at the Bathukamma ghat near Tank Bund, to avoid stench and contamination of the Hussainsagar. The GHMC has set up about 740 Bathukammas at all important junctions in the city. Apart from Tank Bund, the GHMC has also made arrangements at Saroornagar, IDL, Hasmathpet, Pragathinagar tanks, Sunnam Cheruvu, Gangaram Cheruvu, Durgam Cheruvu, Palle Cheruvu and Pedda Cheruvu. Meanwhile, the city police appealed to men to stay away from Bathukamma ghats during the celebrations. Since it is a festival of women, only women will be allowed at the ghats on Saddula Bathukamma Day, a top cop said. He said about 10,000 police personnel would be deployed and CCTV cameras would be installed at every ghat to avoid sporadic incidents. The festival would be conducted on a grander scale with illumination of all important places and traffic junctions with 3-D lighting. GHMC has installed hoardings at all major junctions, bus shelters, foot over bridges and arches. The corporation has already decked up major junctions in the city with Bathukammas. As part of special arrangements, the corporation has formed 12 Bathukamma Action Teams (BATs), which includes about 95 sanitary field assistants (SFAs) and about 1,100 sanitation workers. It has put up 28,916 temporary street lights at a cost of Rs 90.34 lakh. HYDERABAD: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) came down heavily on the Telangana government and levied a fine of Rs 3,800 crore for its failure to treat solid and liquid waste. The total environmental compensation to be paid by Telangana, according to the green tribunal bench, is Rs 3,648 crore for its failure to treat liquid waste or sewage, and Rs 177 crore for failure to scientifically manage solid waste. The total compensation may be deposited by the State of Telangana in a separate ring-fenced account within two months, to be operated as per directions of the chief secretary and utilised for restoration measures. It will be open to the state to plan raising funds from generators/contributors to waste, according to the NGT order. It was also observed that there was 5.9 million tonnes of unremediated legacy waste in 141 ULBs, with more unprocessed waste being added on a daily basis to the tune of 2,446 tonnes per day (TPD). We have also noted that the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has capped 12 million tonnes of legacy waste at the Jawaharnagar dumpsite, the NGT bench said, adding that the capping did not meet the Central Pollution Control Boards (CPCB) standards. Further, the NGT bench slammed the Telangana government, saying, It is difficult to hold that the state has taken the Tribunal's directions seriously or even endeavoured to go by this mandate. Even after three years, neither there is adequate compliance nor the same has been projected in the immediate future. There is no accountability, no performance audit has been performed, and no entries in ACRs have been made. There is nothing to show that compensation has been recovered in terms of directions of the Tribunal. The NGT stated that the chief secretary would be responsible for compliance and directed him to file progress reports every six months. The tribunal directed the Chief Secretary to take several measures as part of future remedial action, including designating a Senior Nodal Officer at the rank of ACS to regularly assess progress, linking existing and upcoming STPs with industries and other bulk users for using treated sewage, remediation of legacy waste sites, use of reclaimed areas for setting up waste processing plants, and establishment of green belts or dense forests to mitigate the adverse impact of waste. It also directed the state to deal with larger towns with populations exceeding one lakh, such as GHMC, Warangal, Nizamabad, Khammam, Karimnagar, Ramagundam, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Adilabad, Suryapet, Miryalaguda, Siddipet, and Jagtial, on a separate basis for sewage and solid waste management. The tribunal has been monitoring waste compliance by states in accordance with Supreme Court orders issued in 2014 and 2017. The Chief Secretary filed a presentation with data on sewage and solid waste management on September 28, 2022. According to the data, there has been no significant progress in waste management since the Chief Secretary last appeared before the tribunal, according to the bench. People get on a boat as they look for shelter during a widespread flood in Sylhet, in northeastern Bangladesh, June 19, 2022. Bangladesh, among countries most vulnerable to rising sea levels from warming temperatures, will soon unveil an ambitious plan for adapting to climate change, officials say, but the government may have trouble raising money for the U.S. $230 billion endeavor. The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) proposes initiatives to make Bangladesh more resilient to impacts from a changing climate such as rising sea levels, increasing water salinity, severe flooding and river erosion. Specific goals include saving 1.1 million hectares of land from flooding and storm surges, producing more 10 million tons of rice, protecting nearly 40 million fisheries-dependent families, and providing improved drainage facilities to 30 million of the urban population. The plan will be sent to the cabinet for approval, said Mirza Shawkat Ali, of the Department of Environment. We hope the approval would come this month, the director of the climate change cell at the department told BenarNews last week. Bangladesh ranks 7th among the top 10 most affected countries (2000-2019) in terms of long-term climate risk, according to the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index published by Germanwatch, an NGO based in Bonn. Over the last 40 years, economic loss due to climate change in Bangladesh was estimated at U.S. $12 billion, according to the NAP, which adds that the country could lose two percent of its annual gross domestic products by 2050 as fallout from global warming. The NAP identified 11 climate stressors that will lead to 14 hazardous effects, namely monsoon floods, flash floods, urban floods, sea level rise, drought, salinity, storm surges, excess heat, landslides, river erosion, lightning, excess rainfall, cold spells and ocean acidification. Climate change has already started affecting Bangladesh. Increasingly severe droughts have afflicted its northwestern districts. The southwestern region has seen six percent more super cyclones in the past 30 years. Sea levels are rising in the Bay of Bengal by 3 to 6 millimeters a year. Bangladesh is not a polluter, but a victim of climate change caused by the burning of fossil fuels by the developed and developing economies, Ziaul Haque, a government negotiator at the United Nations climate change talks, told BenarNews. The developed countries must provide funds to victim countries like us, said Haque, who is also a director at the Department of Environment. Residents who live along the Padma River move their houses to safer ground as the rivers bank disintegrate due to soil erosion, in Munshiganj, Bangladesh, Aug. 26, 2021. [Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters] One Bangladesh government official, however, acknowledged that mobilization of funds from developed countries may not be easy. Of the U.S. $230 billion, NAP targets spending nearly $185 billion for the water resources sector. But mobilizing even $18 billion would be tough to achieve, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Environment, Forest and Climate Change, told BenarNews. We have to prioritize and sync projects that would give benefits in more than one sector. But that is not as simple as it sounds, because consequences of climate change vary from region to region, said Syed Hafizur Rahman, a professor of environmental sciences at Jahangirnagar University in Dhaka. For instance, the southwestern part would face sea level rise and inundation of coastal land, while we may see land formation in Coxs Bazar or Noakhali. In the northeastern region, we will see flash floods. We cannot find any one size-fits-all solution, Rahman told BenarNews. A woman looks at the Padma River from her house, which is threatened by erosion of the river bank, in Shariatpur, Bangladesh, June 23, 2008. [Andrew Biraj/Reuters] Financial system is plagued with corruption Another barrier to mobilizing international funds is Bangladeshs poor record in transparency, accountability and timely project execution, some experts said. The flow of money from international sources will not come only through shouting that we are the worst-affected country, the seventh-most vulnerable country, Mizan R. Khan, deputy director at NGO International Center for Climate Change and Development, told BenarNews. Rather, the money will come only if we ensure an accountable and transparent financial management in project execution. This means the developed countries would only provide funds when we can convince them that their contribution would not be misused. He cited the example of tiny neighbor Bhutan which, according to him, has got a sizable contribution for climate resilience projects because of its transparent financial mechanisms. But our financial system is plagued with corruption and non-transparency. This is one of the obstacles, Khan said. If we can develop projects with transparent and accountable financial mechanisms, we will get enough funds from international sources. Funding will not be a problem for good projects. Chowdhury, of the parliamentary standing committee, said that another major problem in Bangladesh was that most projects get delayed and go over budget. At the standing committee, we have discussed NAP and suggested that the government must have a mid-term review so that the projects could be monitored properly. At the same time, we have to put in place some determinants coupled with a transparent process to assess the quality-based output of projects. We must follow it strictly, he said. We have some success stories in implementing projects. Therefore, we have suggested that the government make a pool of project directors who implemented projects efficiently. From the pool, the government can appoint project directors, Chowdhury said. A file photo of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, a casino entertainment district in northwestern Laos' Bokeo province that caters mainly to Chinese tourists. Around 700 Malaysian migrant workers are being detained in a China-owned casino and hotel resort in northern Laos, where they face abuse by resort managers demanding a large ransom for their release, according to Lao sources. Lured by promises of employment to the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo province, most are being put to work as online scammers, with compliance enforced by beatings and torture, sources say. I see a lot of Malaysian workers in the SEZ, one Lao worker in the Golden Triangle zone told Radio Free Asia (RFA), an online news service affiliated with BenarNews, on Sept. 29, speaking on condition of anonymity to protect his safety. Actually, I see people here from many different countries, including Vietnam, Myanmar and Malaysia. They work at many different jobs, but most of them here at the Golden Triangle work online as scammers, RFAs source said. Speaking to RFA, a Lao worker who escaped the Golden Triangle after working there as an online scammer, said it is difficult for foreign workers at the SEZ to leave the zone or find protection from abuse. Their Chinese employers confiscate their passports and cell phones, and most of the workers are confined to their buildings, the source said, also declining to be named. Foreign workers like the Malaysians also have trouble complaining to the Lao authorities because of the language barrier, he said. When foreign workers are abused by a Chinese employer, they dont know whether they should report the abuse to the governments SEZ Task Force or to their own embassies, he added. Foreign workers trapped in the Golden Triangle SEZ endure harrowing conditions including beatings and torture, with some workers reportedly shot for refusing to obey orders, Malaysias New Straits Times said in a Sept. 25 report. Some workers were believed to be sold from one agent to another, from one company to another, or worse, traded between different countries, the New Straits Times said. The fraud syndicate also demanded ransom money from the victims families that ranged from 50,000 ringgit [U.S. $10,782] to 100,000 ringgit [U.S. $21,565] to release the victims, according to the report. Protest in Kuala Lumpur On Sept. 26, members of Malaysian rights groups and parents of trapped workers protested in front of the Lao embassy in Kuala Lumpur, calling on Lao authorities to help secure the workers release. Speaking at the protest, Hishamuddin Hashim, secretary general of the Malaysia International Humanitarian Organization, said in a video released after the event that many Malaysian workers trapped in Laos had asked for help from Lao police but received no response. At least four Malaysians have now escaped Laos, with six others receiving help from the Malaysian embassy in the capital Vientiane, but most them continue to be exploited, trafficked or even killed, he said. Speaking to RFA on Sept. 29, a Lao official said he had recently seen Malaysias embassy in Laos contact the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Interpol, asking for their help in freeing the trapped Malaysian workers. The Lao Foreign Ministry often responded to those requests, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity in order to freely discuss the matter. I dont know how the Malaysians ended up working in Laos, but I know that most of them are working in the Golden Triangle SEZ in Bokeo province. Reached by email and phone for comment, an official at the Malaysian embassy in Laos said, Right now were doing some research on the issue before we can answer your questions. The Golden Triangle SEZ is a gambling and tourism hub catering to Chinese citizens situated along the Mekong River where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet. In 2018, the U.S. government sanctioned the Chinese tycoon who is said to run the SEZ as head of a trafficking network. This report was produced by the Lao Service at Radio Free Asia (RFA). Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele speaks at the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs in Wellington, Oct. 3, 2022. The Solomon Islands may not shed its least-developed country status by the 2024 target after suffering economic setbacks, Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele said Monday. More than 40 countries are classified by the U.N. as least developed due to having income per head as low as U.S. $1,000 and problems such as high infant mortality and chronic economic vulnerability. Our economic growth is not keeping with the development needs of our country, Manele said in a speech to the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs in Wellington. Whilst we are projected to graduate out of LDC status by 2024, assessment reports indicate we may need more time to get back on track to graduate out of LDC status. In the Pacific, Tuvalu and Kiribati are also classified as least developed. Vanuatu graduated in 2020, and Samoa in 2012. The World Bank says gross domestic product per capita was about U.S. $2,300 in the Solomon Islands in 2021. But the archipelago of some 700,000 people has been affected lately by economic shockwaves from the COVID-19 pandemic, Russias war on Ukraine, and rioting in its capital Honiara last year. The Pacific nation has been the focus of China-U.S. rivalry in the region after its government signed a secret security pact with Beijing earlier this year. The countrys leader, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, last week was a signatory to a declaration of partnership between the United States and Pacific island nations at a summit in Washington. He had reportedly initially opposed the agreement. Manele reiterated on Monday his governments assertion that it was not taking sides in a great power rivalry and would work with any country that will give us a fair go and help with economic development. Infrastructure is the golden thread that is needed to integrate and unify our scattered population, he said. Manele also expressed hope that New Zealand would offer more seasonal work visas for Solomon Islanders to help the country cope with its economic problems. Marines from the Philippines, United States and South Korea, joined by a member of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, carry their national flags during the opening ceremony of the Kamandag 6 military exercise at the Philippine Marines headquarters in Taguig, suburban Manila, Oct. 3, 2022. Filipino and U.S. Marines kicked off large-scale joint drills Monday in and around Philippine islands facing the South China Sea and in Japan, with Japanese and South Korean military personnel participating as observers for the first time, officials said. The Kamandag 6 war games, which involve about 2,550 U.S. Marines and 630 Filipino counterparts from the marines and navy, run through Oct. 14. The joint force comprises the largest combined number of troops from the longtime defense allies participating in a military exercise since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in June. The exercise is not only a two-way collaboration between the U.S. and the Philippines but an effort to engage allies Japan and South Korea, whose participation is crucial in a volatile security environment, Philippine Navy chief Rear Adm. Caesar Bernard Valencia said during an opening ceremony on Monday. The drills are unfolding against the backdrop of tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. I hope that we will continue to stand together as allies and partners, armed with the commitment to uphold the values and the principles of freedom, democracy and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, Valencia told reporters. I look forward to these opportunities that we have in this training exercise as we continue to collaborate in addressing collective security concerns in the region and world-wide. Drills will be held in the western island province of Palawan that faces the South China Sea, and in Batanes, a province on Luzon island that lies across the Luzon Strait from Taiwan, according to a news release on the U.S. Marines website. At the same time, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members will host American Marines in similar training exercises on Hokkaido island. Kamandag will include a combined live-fire exercise in central Luzon featuring aircraft and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, as well as amphibious operations along the islands eastern and northern coasts, the news release said. Kamandag means Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea. Valencia said the joint exercises would deliver a platform where nations or participants or observers alike can express their commitment to regional peace and stability. The exercises are taking place amid Chinese military expansionism in the South China Sea, where Beijing is locked in territorial disputes with the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan. Beijing claims historical rights to much of the region, including waters reaching rivals shores. Exercises like the Kamandag allow us to work together multi-laterally, not only to enforce our commitments to our partner nations, but also to expand our regional relationships. Exercise Kamandag also prepares for a wide-range of challenges protruding (from) traditional security threats on the global scale and non-traditional security concerns such as disaster response operations through a series of field and combined interoperability exercises, Valencia said. During the 12-day exercise scores of personnel from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and Korean armed forces will serve as observers and are expected to participate in disaster response drills. Rear Adm. Derek Trinque, the exercise director on the U.S. side, said the joint drills will help us carry on this important work together, to ensure our nations defense and preserve peace in the region. Trinque said the drills would help both forces to be more prepared to address real-world challenges. He said U.S. armed forces enjoy partnerships with like-minded nations across the Indo-Pacific region. While its always a privilege for us to work bilaterally with the Philippines, with Japan, with the Republic of Korea, when we can bring our allies and partners together, if we can be part of that then we are pleased to do so, he said. As the admiral (Valencia) stated, this is bilateral and the forces of Japan and Korea are observing this year. We are here on the invitation of the Philippines and so if in the future we have opportunities to work multilaterally, then we welcome that from the United States, but we would never try to tell the Armed Forces of the Philippines how they run their exercise, Trinque said. At another media meet, housing minister Jogi Ramesh flayed the TD and its friendly media for defending Vijay who posted obscene comments against women on the ITDP website. Facebook VIJAYAWADA: Defending the CID police serving notices on Telugu Desam leader Chintakayala Vijay for posting indecent posts against women on ITDP website, Social Welfare Minister Merugu Nagarjuna said on Sunday the TD was trying to defame the YSRC government. Addressing the media at the partys central office here on Sunday, Nagarjuna alleged that Vijay acted at the behest of TD chief Chandrababu Naidu and his son Lokesh. Housing minister Jogi Ramesh held Naidu and Lokesh responsible for the insult they did on women and sought action against Vijay. Nagarjuna said Vijay made several tweets denigrating women. The CID police acted as per law in serving notices in response to his questionable actions, he said. At another media meet, housing minister Jogi Ramesh flayed the TD and its friendly media for defending Vijay who posted obscene comments against women on the ITDP website. Ramesh asked the TD-friendly media, How long will you continue to abet anarchy? You too have families and women. If you dont stop encouraging these anti-socials, it will boomerang on you. He said chief minister Jagan is giving priority to women by offering 50 per cent reservation in all fields and raising their social status. But Naidu, Lokesh and other TD leaders are degrading women. He demanded that Naidu should take the responsibility for the insult to women including the CMs wife. John Lyddy of Whitingham is running for state representative. Lyddy acknowledged that he attended the rally on Jan. 6 with his wife, but they both left when they realized it was getting out of control. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. PITTSFIELD Tim McClelland was just a teenager when he stumbled upon a beginners jewelry making class. It started a spark that led to a profession that has given him great fulfillment. McClelland makes original fine jewelry, a task that he's done both by himself and with others for 50 years. The South County resident, who has run his own Great Barrington-based business, TW McClelland, for the last two years, is also a member of the American Jewelry Design Council, which is made up of some 30 lifelong U.S. jewelry makers. Membership is by invitation only. The group sponsors education programs, and provides design awards to increase the awareness of jewelry design in the United States. We talked with McClelland about his craft recently. Q: How did you become interested in doing this? A: I got interested in making jewelry in high school. My public high school (in Pontiac, Mich.) had a very rudimentary jewelry making course. It was back in the early '70s. The jewelry teacher was kind of a hippie and I thought he was cool. I also really liked the idea of watching metal get melted and made into objects like that. I was about 15. It was good because in a way it was like a vocational thing because I wasn't a great student. I wasn't a troublemaker, but I wasn't a good model citizen. It kind of kept me occupied. I was blessed to have it. It would be wonderful if more public high schools had things like that where they can engage students. That's a really big deal. It was for me. Q: Why did you stick with it? A: It was very compelling to me. It was really the one thing I was good at even from the beginning. I wasn't that interested in going to college. I went to a place in Maine called [Haystack Mountain School of Crafts] in Deer Isle. I ended up moving down to Boston from there and was able to enroll at Boston University. It was called the program in artisanry. It was for people who were interested in crafts. They had furniture making, musical instruments. weaving and textile design and metal working and jewelry making. So I got hooked in because it just seemed to work for me. It was really interesting, the people were artistic, and there was an artistic side to it. I was really interested in art. Jewelry Designer Job description: Jewelry designers plan and create the patterns for rings, necklaces, bracelets and other accessories. They often generate a few prototypes of a product and test the models for durability, comfort and style. Workplaces: Jewelry stores, especially those focusing on custom designs; design studios and workshops; manufacturing facilities; jewelry repair shops. Duties and responsibilities: Daily duties can vary depending on the workplace and the types of custom orders, but general responsibilities include drafting designs on paper or with computer software; selecting and assessing the quality of gemstones; evaluating wax models; casting new pieces in metal; polishing and smoothing metals; cleaning jewelry; and reshaping metals, inserting gems and ensuring that attachments are secure. Educational requirements: A degree is not required, but those who aspire to the trade often earn associate or bachelor's degrees in gemology, jewelry design, accessories design or relevant subjects. Vocational schools, community colleges, or universities accredited by national organizations like the Gemological Institute of America are the best bet for degree seekers. Experience is gained through internships or entry level jobs. Source: Indeed.com Q: How do you make jewelry? A: It's a double process. It starts with an idea and the idea can be almost anything these days because there's so much that's already been done historically that you can pull from any place to get an idea. When I start with an idea it's often based on things I've done in the past, but also a particular material, a gemstone, or sometimes techniques I'm interested in. I'm always looking to be original. I like originality. That's really, really at the core of how I design. I don't want to copy anybody. I want it to be as absolutely as original as I can do it. Q: How do you develop an idea? A: Once I figure out how a piece can be made, or if I can make it all, then I usually make a prototype and see how that looks. If it looks promising then I'll either develop the idea and make multiples or make a one of a kind sort of beautiful thing to look at. Q: How do you make the prototype? A: I have a group of sketch books, maybe four or five that I've kept my whole career. If I get an idea usually it's really late at night when I'm in bed or when I'm waking up in the morning when my mind is sort of calm. I'll have an idea and write it down in the sketch book by my bed. What I do is keep those sketchbooks. I'll look back in through some of my earliest ones from years ago and if a design still looks good, like it's still promising after many years, I'll do it. I let my designs gestate in my books for awhile so I don't make something foolish. It takes a long time to make a piece of jewelry. It can take a couple of months to make a piece, but usually a piece of original jewelry takes 10 days or two weeks. I don't want to make a piece that's not going to hold up over time. I want them to last. Q: How does your wife react to the creative process when it gets you up in the middle of the night? A: My wife is also an artist. She knows how to tolerate my idiosyncrasies like that. She's also very opinionated and sort of tells me how to edit my ideas. She's not afraid to tell me if it's a terrible idea. It saves me a lot of foolishness. Q: Where do your ideas come from? A: I've paid a lot of attention to design and visual art my whole life. You never know exactly where inspiration comes from. Nature is the biggest. The natural word is the teacher of all design. If you're looking at the natural world. even if it's a bunch of weeds growing out back of your porch, you will see theory and design. That to me is where inspiration comes from always. Q: How do you determine what materials to use? A: After I decide on the original design I will do a number of other sketches, and drawings, and technical drawings. There's a lot of engineering. It has to be engineered properly. You do it from a visual design to see how it's going to look the best but you also have to make sure its properly constructed. There's a lot of planning. A lot of times I'll do samples of colors to see what the metal looks like in relation to the stone. Q: What's the most intricate piece that you've ever made? A: I made a box that was meant to be part of a desk ornament, an ornamental box that was designed to be quite small. I would say it was about 3 to 3 1/2 inches in diameter. It's a scene of a group of birds, robins, guarding a bird's nest with a life size robin's egg that is made out of turquoise. (The box) was made out of gold and different minerals, gold and turquoise and malachite, a mineral that is a greenish turquoise color, and coral. It was very elaborate. I would say that one took me close to five months off and on. Q: What are the best and hardest parts of making jewelry? A: The hardest part is keeping track of everything because there's a lot of little tiny stuff that you have to watch. Not only material stuff that has value to it, but also information and records and customer information, all sorts of stuff. Jewelry is incredibly detail oriented. There's two best parts. One is when you've been a jeweler for 50 years you can make anything you want. The idea is to make something that I call a joyful expression of a jeweler's art. That's incredibly gratifying. The other thing that's really gratifying is that I really like working with customers who are interested in jewelry. I like to talk about it and express what I know and I like to get other people excited about it, too. Q: What advice would you give to somebody who's interested in making jewelry? A: For a very young beginner I would advise going to a school like North Bennet Street (a vocational school) in Boston. They're kind of an old school that teaches the aspects of making jewelry. It's not too crazy with the design thing. It's more like learning the basics. If you like doing it after learning the basics you can get a job in the jewelry business. ... If you learn how to make jewelry you'll have a profession you can do until you're 85 years old. It's a lifelong thing. At the Central Berkshire Record Show in Dalton, it's all about the hunt for that long-lost vinyl record More than a dozen OBC leaders had jumped ship ahead of the UP Assembly polls held earlier this year. (Representational Image/ANI) NEW DELHI: With an eye on the 2024 electoral battle, the BJP has launched efforts for the "ghar wapsi" of most of the OBC leaders who had quit the party ahead of the 2022 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls to return to the saffron fold. The efforts are a part of the ruling party's strategy to consolidate the numerically strong OBC vote bank in the politically crucial state. Prominent OBC leaders like Swamy Prasad Maurya, Dara Singh Chauhan, Brajesh Prajapati, Roshan Lal Verma, Bhagwati Sagar, Vinay Shakya, Rakesh Rathore, Madhuri Verma and Dharam Singh Saini, among others, had quit the BJP ahead of the recently concluded Assembly polls in the state. Most of these leaders joined the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, which tried hard to woo the non-Yadav OBC voters in the run up to the state elections. The BJP's former ally Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party's Om Prakash Rajbhar, sources said, has also been sending feelers to the BJP leadership to return to the NDA fold. The OBC party had contested the recent UP polls with the SP but Rajbhar has been critical of Yadav ever since their alliance lost the polls. More than a dozen OBC leaders, including Rajbhar who was a Cabinet minister in the Yogi Adityanath-led UP government, had jumped ship ahead of the UP Assembly polls held earlier this year. The BJPs outreach is rooted in the fact that nearly 40 per cent of Uttar Pradesh's population belongs to the OBC community. According to BJP data, of the nearly 74 OBC castes in this politically crucial state, 61 castes have been voting in favour of the ruling party, mainly since 2014. According to sources, most of the OBC leaders who had quit earlier this year are in touch with the BJP. The BJP leadership, as per sources, is also willing to re-induct its former allies and members "barring a few". Interestingly, most of these OBC leaders, who had quit, were said to be from the "anti-Yogi Adityanath" camp when they were part of the saffron party. The SP's efforts to woo non-Yadav OBCs and Brahmin voters while holding on to the partys Muslim-Yadav (M-Y) core vote bank to strengthen his party's electoral fortunes failed to work as the BJP retained power in the state. The exodus of prominent OBC leaders from the ruling BJP was set off by the then Cabinet minister in the Yogi government, Mr Maurya. Mr Maurya had claimed that his exit from the BJP was an "indication" of misfortune for the saffron party, similar to what the Mayawati-led BSP had endured when he had quit it in 2017 before joining the BJP. The five-time MLA had to change his Padrauna Assembly seat due to "anti-incumbency". Mr Maurya, however, lost the Fazilnagar seat to the BJP's Surendra Kushwaha. Every 50 years, my debts get forgiven? Sign me up. Not every Christian may be on board with the idea behind The Year of Jubilee . Recent debates about student loan debt being forgiven have left some Christians wondering if they can apply this concept to current issues. However, these debates prove we should understand this Old Testament practice. Although this practice is still not in place in Israel today, it can give us insight into Gods character, mercy, and thoughts on freedom. Lets dive into The Year of Jubilee and what it could mean for Christians today. Photo credit: Getty Images/Alessandro Biascioli What Is the Year of Jubilee? In an article about The Year of Jubilee, its probably important to first define it. For that, lets go to Scripture. A Year of Rest You shall have the fiftieth year as a jubilee; you shall not sow, nor reap its aftergrowth, nor gather in from its untrimmed vines. For it is a jubilee; it shall be holy to you. You shall eat its crops out of the field. (Leviticus 25:11-12) In other words, every 50 years, the Israelites would have a year of rest. This makes sense. God would have them rest on the Sabbath once a week. There were also holidays appointed for rest every season and during certain months. Logical progression dictates that God would also have a longer period of rest. Say, a year. Slaves Are Freed Also, during Jubilee, slaves would be freed (Leviticus 25:10). We must remember that slavery was a slightly different institution in Israelite times than in our modern-day lens. Yes, Israelites would keep captives of war, which would fall under a different category of slavery. But the slavery referred to in this passage was a slave who owed his master money (i.e., an indentured servant). During the year of Jubilee, bondservants would be freed from their debts and able to return to their own homes, free men. Debts Are Forgiven And this wouldnt just happen in the year of Jubilee (although the parameters for debt forgiveness are laid out in Leviticus 25). This would actually happen every seven years (see Deuteronomy 15:1-2). This may seem like something way outside of our modern sensibilities. Even some articles go as far as to argue that its a myth that the Year of Jubilee would involve debt forgiveness. But Id like to argue in the next section why this makes sense within Gods character. Photo credit: Unsplash/Lionello Delpiccolo Why Was the Year of Jubilee Important to God? The Year of Jubilee makes total sense within the character God displays for us. Lets examine three reasons why. God Loves Rest It would make sense for God to institute a year of rest. He establishes a weekly sabbath because he doesnt want us to rely on our own work to sustain us fully. He asks us to trust him to provide when we cannot provide for ourselves. It can be difficult for many of usbefore retirementto imagine giving up a whole year to the Lord and living off the fruit of our labors for the past 49 years. But we do practice this in some ways. Professors and pastors may sometimes go on sabbaticals, where for months, or even a full year, they rest and rejuvenate their souls. A Year of Jubilee tells us that we are not machines but created to enjoy creation and God. God Hates Bondage If you havent had a chance to read the article linked to what the Bible says about slavery above, I highly recommend doing so. Although God allowed the Israelites to have bondservantsas it was a cultural practice at the timethroughout Scripture, its evident that God does not approve of anything that holds humans in bondage. Entire books have been written on the subject, so I cant imagine even being able to scratch the surface in this article. However, the fact Christ frees us from our sin does show us that he doesnt want anything to hold us fast or hinder us. It would make sense for God to institute a Year of Jubilee to free the slaves who owed their masters. Speaking of God Frees Us from Debts If you find yourself naturally reacting against the idea of freeing people from their debts (especially if you would be getting the money back), consider checking out the passage of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35. Its a harrowing parable to read but effective in what it tries to communicate. God has forgiven us of enormous debts, so how can we not forgive those with far smaller ones? Granted, the Bible speaks against spending money frivolously to the point where we end up destitute. Proverbs has quite a bit to say about it. Some passages about not accumulating debt include Psalm 37:21, Proverbs 22:7, and Romans 13:7. But also, a year in which debts are forgiven perfectly aligns with Gods character. He calls us not to depend on our own financesor the finances we lord above othersand instead to forgive as he forgives. How Can Christians Implement Their Own Year of Jubilee? Although some Roman Catholic traditions do celebrate a Year of Jubilee of sorts, we dont really see this instituted anymoreat least, not to the degree seen in the Old Testament. It gets a little fuzzy past Israels exile in Babylonas most things do during the four hundred years of silence between the return from exile and Jesus birth. With that said, Christians can find their own ways to implement a Jubilee here and now. And the good news is, we dont have to wait 50 years. Ill suggest a few ways to get one implemented, but I highly suggest coming up with your own creative ideasafter prayerful thought. Forgiving of Debts And Im not talking just about financial debts. Although that could be a great start if someone owes you 50 dollars, to tell them, Hey, dont worry about it. If Jesus can forgive me, so can I forgive you. Debts get muddy in our own culture. So this can differ from person to person. But Im also speaking to spiritual debts. If were honest with ourselves, we can probably think of one or two people who served as a testing rather than a blessing. During our Jubilee, we can forgive those people, even if they havent apologized. Unlike the unforgiving servant, well reflect Jesus in this way. Resting Not all of us can take a full year off. Many of us have two-income households and maybe work side gigs on top of those incomes to pay off electric bills and groceries. And for those of us who are in retirement, this may not seem like something you can implement now. But I would like to look at the idea of rest in general. Is there an hour you can set aside and sit and be with God? Maybe a day when you dont open up your emails? Maybe, even if youre retired, a time set apart away from people where you can just dwell in the presence of our Lord. All of us can use rest in different ways. And if were resting too much, we can help others who need more rest by offering to provide free babysitting or meals. Worshipping God The purpose of the Year of Jubilee is to turn our anxieties away from our debts (or our debtors), our jobs, our busy lives, and reflect on God as our provider. So as you explore implementing a Jubilee of your own, remember who its about. We rest because God rested. We forgive debts because God forgave ours. We tell others in spiritual bondage about God who freed us because he freed us. I cant wait to see more Year of Jubilees implemented amongst Christians and the impact it can have on the world. As we bring the kingdom of God to this earth. Related articles How to Rest in the Lord When Your World Is Upside Down 21 Bible Verses for Sleep and Rest When Your Soul Needs Peace 5 Essential Reasons to Practice Sabbath Photo credit: Getty Images/fizkes Hope Bolinger is an acquisitions editor at End Game Press, and the author 21+ books. More than 1400 of her works have been featured in various publications. Check out her books at hopebolinger.com for clean books in most genres, great for adults and kids. After the Tower of Babel, God introduced languages, causing confusion among humanity. They dispersed from their centralized location around the unfinished tower a monument to human hubris and spread out to the ends of the earth. As groups of people began to isolate, they developed different cultures. Some elements of these cultures were benign, and had no moral implications, for example things like naming traditions, certain elements of food preparation, and architecture. Other aspects of the culture ran counter to the will of God, like false religions, certain sexual practices, or human sacrifice. The tensions between cultures that wanted to conform to the will of God and those that did not continued leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus, and even after it. In the 20th century, an idea arose, primarily in the fields of sociology and anthropology, known as cultural relativism. This idea removed moral stigma from cultural behaviors and traditions by understanding them in their context, rather than compared to another cultures standard, or an objective standard. Because culture is greatly influenced by man, and man is creative in ways that are both good and bad, many cultures have elements that are a mix of good, bad, or neutral. Removing any objective standard of measurement of the morality of a cultural practice is not Biblical, and usually leads to good cultures embracing more wickedness. What Is Cultural Relativism? Cultural relativism is, the view that a culture can only be understood and judged by the standards, behaviors, norms, and values within the culture and not by anything outside. Examples of cultural relativism would include understanding why bullfighting is an acceptable cultural practice in Spain, when many other cultures consider it barbaric. In many respects, Christians live within the culture of a kingdom that will come into fulfillment in the future. Like the Jews and the nation of Israel had cultural practices that were defined by their unique relationship with the one God, followers of Jesus Christ are a part of something that is in the world, but is distinctly separate from the world. Jesus reiterated many times in His ministry that His Kingdom was not of this world, and this idea was echoed by the men who wrote books of the Bible. This concept is seen in many verses including but not limited to: John 15:19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. John 17:14-16 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Philippians 3:20-21 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. To obey the Lord, Christians must live according to the truth of God, in obedience to the commands of Christ, and undergoing the process of sanctification. Often, these commandments and this obedience means someone must give up something in their culture. Many cultural practices are wicked, or are against the law of the Lord. Many cultural practices are rooted in the religion of that culture. When someone becomes a Christian, they are called upon to reject those practices, embrace Gods way, and to change. Cultural relativism removes the moral stigma from any given cultural practice, even though God calls believers to be like Jesus, and not like the world. What Is Objective Truth? Jesus claims objectivity, and sets Himself and Gods law as the standard. When one of His disciples asked how to follow Him, Jesus took the time to set up that following Him is following Gods true standard, stating, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him (John 14:6a-7). The only way to truly know God, and to do Gods will, is to follow Jesus. He is the Truth. His Word, preserved in the Bible, is the truth left for humanity to follow so that all have the opportunity to be saved from their sins and have an eternal relationship with the Lord. Truth, and culture rooted in that truth, is based on the Bible. Truth does not mean uniformity. Many cultures have practices and behaviors that are not contrary to Gods truth. These include language, food, dancing, valuing family, styles of music, many kinds of art, architecture, and many other cultural practices. When examining whether or not a cultural practice runs contrary to Gods law, it is important to compare them to the 10 Commandments, the example set by Jesus, and the Scripture. Behaviors that encourage idol worship, rejection of God, lies, violation of the 10 Commandments, immodesty, or other behaviors that God condemns are unholy. The Bible outlines the truth of God, and it should be the first measure of truth and what is right, followed by prayer and consultation with other believers. Does the Bible Have Anything to Say about Cultural Relativism? In the Old Testament, the lives of some kings of Israel serve as appropriate warnings for what can happen when a cultural practice is not examined and scrutinized with an objective moral standard, and accepted. One of the biggest is King Solomon. Famously, Davids son married hundreds of women, having 700 wives and 300 concubines. According to the record in 1 Kings, Now King Solomon loved many foreign women, along with the daughter of Pharaoh: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite women, from the nations concerning which the Lord had said to the people of Israel, You shall not enter into marriage with them, neither shall they with you, for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods. Solomon clung to these in love (1 Kings 11:1-2). Rather than asking all of his pagan wives to convert, or if they refused to convert to only practice their false religions in private, Solomon allowed them to continue practicing, elevating their religions on equal footing with the Laws of YAWEH. He engaged in cultural relativism. These women were allowed to keep their culture, and their false gods, even though Solomon knew these cultural practices and pagan practices were not in alignment with the truth of the One true God. He built places of worship for Ashtoreth, Milcom, Chemosh, Molech, And so he did for all his foreign wives, who made offerings and sacrificed to their gods (1 Kings 11:8). He embraced the religions of all his false wives as if they were as acceptable as his own. After Solomon embraced foreign gods, so did most of Israel, which paved the path for its eventual cultural and moral decay, and eventual conquest. There are certain elements of culture that were dictated to the Jews, and for anyone who chose to follow the God of Israel and obey His laws. After the death and Resurrection of Christ, many of these elements were rendered obsolete under the totality of the sacrifice of Jesus. For example, after the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, Jesus came to Peter to clarify the old laws about food no longer applied. Luke recorded in the Book of Acts, And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. And there came a voice to him: Rise, Peter; kill and eat. But Peter said, By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean. And the voice came to him again a second time, What God has made clean, do not call common (Acts 10:10-15). This removed a cultural barrier between the Jewish believers and the Gentile believers, and it began to create a new culture that became the church. This moment was not a moment of cultural relativism, but rather a change of how the Law was to be understood, in light of Jesus. How Should Christians Respond to Cultural Relativism in the World around Us? There is a great deal of pressure in the world to behave like the world. The Apostle Paul encouraged believers, Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2). Christians should find encouragement from one another and from the Scriptures to seek truth, and stand firm in it. Giving into the pressure to see any cultural practice as acceptable, just because it is not ones own culture and has different values, means accepting sin, just because someone different is doing it. This can also hinder evangelism, as people feel reluctant to challenge people to examine their culture, and their souls, and to give up cultural strongholds that keep people in bondage to sin. Christians should stand firm in Gods truth, and be bold to share the truth of sin and salvation. Becoming a Christian may mean giving up some cultural practices, but not all of them, and what is being given up will seem like dust compared to glory of the Lord, the love of Jesus Christ, and an eternity in Heaven. Sources Herskovits, Melville Jean. Cultural Relativism; Perspectives in Cultural Pluralism. New York: Random House, 1972. Longaker, Eneida. Postmodernism Explain the Development of Postmodenism From Its Beginnings: Cultural Relativism. Independently Published, 2021. McGavran, Donald Anderson. The Clash Between Christianity and Cultures. Canon Press, Moscow, 1974. Norris, Christopher. Reclaiming Truth Contribution to a Critique of Cultural Relativism. Durham: Duke University Press, 2016. Photo credit: Getty Images/artisteer Bethany Verrett is a freelance writer and editor. She maintains a faith and lifestyle blog graceandgrowing.com, where she muses about the Lord, life, culture, and ministry. Pharma, like every other industry, has a negative impact on the environment and in the face of the current climate crisis, owes a responsibility to find ways to mitigate this harm. The industry has risen to the challenges, with a majority of big pharma firms aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030. What steps are big pharma companies taking to improve sustainability and how much further do they need to go to actually make a dent in carbon emissions? Lets find out. Climate change - what once felt like a faraway threat has become an imminent crisis. The rise in the earths temperature can create favourable conditions for the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria or increasing pollen-related allergies. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that between 2030 and 2050 climate change will cause an estimated 250,000 additional deaths each year. In November 2021, a Canadian woman in her 70s became the first person to be officially diagnosed with climate change. The pharmaceutical sector is at the centre of this crisis. A 2019 study by Canadas McMaster University which assessed emissions reported by big pharma companies found the industry emitted more, and was more carbon-intensive, than the automotive industry. Specifically, the 48.55 tonnes of CO2 (carbon dioxide) equivalent that the sector emitted per million dollars of revenue was found to be 55 per cent greater than the emissions of the automotive sector. The industry is now finding ways to undo the damage and big pharma firms have set ambitious carbon reduction targets for themselves. In November 2021, ten big pharma companies (AstraZeneca, Biogen, GSK, Johnson & Johnson, Merck, Novartis, Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Takeda) and Schneider Electric launched the Energise programme, to engage hundreds of suppliers in climate action and decarbonisation of the pharmaceutical value chain. In June 2021, eight other pharma companies (Sharp, Harro Hofliger, Schreiner MediPharm, Korber Pharma Packaging Solutions, SCHOTT Pharmaceutical Systems, HealthBeacon, Datwyler and Ypsomed Group,) have founded the Alliance to Zero. This is a non-profit membership association for pharma and biotech supply chain enterprises, that aims to facilitate the transition of the pharma sector to compliance with net-zero emissions, in line with the goal of the Paris Climate Agreement. Big pharmas response to a changing climate Big pharma has announced initiatives to address climate change by cutting carbon emissions, saving water, cutting waste, and incorporating environmentally stable manufacturing into their products. In 2022, French firm Sanofi started constructing a new manufacturing site in Singapore that will be nearly carbon neutral, using green electricity from the sites own solar panels. The site will enable the manufacture of multiple vaccines, with just 12 days needed to switch from making one vaccine to another. It is expected to be fully operational by 2026. In 2020, Sanofi also joined RE100, a global initiative in which companies commit to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2050 (in France, all of Sanofis sites are already fully renewable-powered). The firm also reduced water withdrawals by 22 per cent between 2015 and 2020. Japans Takeda achieved carbon neutrality in 2020. One of the ways Takeda achieved this milestone is through investment in more than 30 renewable energy and carbon offset projects across 12 countries. In May 2022, the firm announced an accelerated goal to achieve net-zero GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions related to operations, including before 2035 and for its entire value chain before 2040. To achieve climate-related goals, a company-wide, cross-divisional programme has been established to increase renewable energy usage and drive energy efficiency. Takeda is also looking beyond its own operations and is working with suppliers to help them establish science-based reduction targets and reduce GHG emissions. In 2021, UKs GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) announced a 50 million ($59 million) investment in renewable energy and carbon reduction at major UK and US manufacturing sites. Swiss firm Novartis is committed to becoming carbon neutral across its value chain by 2040. From 2021, Novartis has avoided an average of 18,000 shipments per year saving approximately 1,400 tonnes of CO2 annually. It has also started to use solvents at most of its manufacturing plants that are recycled and can be reused. In January 2020, UKs AstraZeneca announced its Ambition Zero Carbon plan to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2025 and to ensure the entire value chain is carbon negative by 2030. The firm has committed to invest $1 billion over the next ten years to deliver these targets. Part of this ambitious strategy includes moving toward an entirely global fleet, operating solely on electric vehicles by 2025. In 2020, US based Biogen announced, Healthy Climate, Healthy Lives, a groundbreaking $250 million, 20-year initiative to eliminate fossil fuels across its operations and collaborations with renowned institutions, aimed at improving the health of the world population. At Johnson & Johnson in the US, half of the electricity the company uses already comes from renewable sources, and the firm has further committed to reaching the 100 per cent sustainable power target by 2025. The pharmaceutical giant has also set a goal of net-zero emissions across its vast supply chain by 2045. The other leading pharma giants from the US, Eli Lilly and Merck aim to shift global transportation from air to sea freight, as this has a substantially lower carbon footprint. Both the drugmakers have also invested in renewables as part of their push towards net-zero. Merck has secured several contracts with wind and solar power providers to accelerate its own goal of 100 per cent renewable energy by 2025, while Eli Lilly entered a joint venture with Enerpower in July 2021 to open the largest solar farm in Ireland, UK which will power its nearby drug manufacturing plant. Pfizer from the US, too, has pledged to go carbon neutral by 2030 and will, among other strategies, reduce direct emissions by 46 per cent and purchase 100 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources. Following a virtual power purchase agreement with Vesper Energy, Pfizer expects its North American operations to be 100 per cent solar-powered by the end of 2023. Path to net-zero The industry has set ambitious targets and is making larger strides in achieving this task, but theres a lot that it has to do to actually make a dent in carbon emissions. Getting energy from renewable sources, investing in greener fuels for shipping and using more eco-friendly and less wasteful forms of packaging are all steps in the right direction. Another way to reduce emissions is to use synthetic biology for the production of APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients) and other raw materials. Current small-molecule intermediate/API manufacturing almost entirely relies on unsustainable, petroleum-industry-derived precursors. The growing need to quickly move away from fossil fuel amid the threat of climate change creates urgent demand for novel sustainable approaches to replace the current supply chain of small molecule drug production. Other than sporadic uses of biocatalysts in specific steps of some pharmaceutical synthesis, truly sustainably produced synthetic small-molecule pharmaceuticals are very rare. Synthetic biology that integrates metabolic engineering of various biological hosts (For example, bacteria, fungi, and plant cells) and enzyme engineering will be a major solution that will lead to the next green revolution in the way future small-molecule pharmaceuticals will be produced, said Dr Jing-Ke Weng, Co-founder, DoubleRainbow Biosciences, USA. Double Rainbow is a sustainable biotech company harnessing the power of natural evolution through bioengineering to improve the quality of human health. Manufacturing is another carbon-intensive stage of a pharma companys supply chain. One of the most effective ways of reducing carbon emissions associated with this is to adopt continuous manufacturing, an efficient alternative to batch manufacturing, that combines multiple separate production stages into one single, continuous production line. Back in 2014, US-based biotech company Amgen had opened a biomanufacturing plant incorporating continuous purification methods in Singapore for commercial production of biologic drug substances. Compared with the manufacture of the same amount of product in a traditional facility, the plant has demonstrated a 73 per cent reduction in energy consumption, 54 per cent reduction in water use, and 69 per cent reduction in carbon emissions. In 2018, the firm began building a new next-generation biomanufacturing plant in Rhode Island, USA. Sanofi followed suit in 2019, opening its first digitally-enabled, continuous manufacturing facility in the US. However, some experts feel its virtually impossible for the industry to avoid emissions entirely. While drug companies manufacture life saving medications, their production is resource-intensive and requires a great deal of energy-intensive production, for example, operations involving automated air circulation and high water and electricity usage. Combined with the required high standards that result from strict, ever-increasing, and absolute binding regulations by healthcare authorities, it is very difficult to avoid residual emissions entirely, said Henryk Badack, Senior Vice President Technical Services/Internal Project Management, Vetter Pharma, Germany. Vetter is a global CDMO (contract development and manufacturing organisation) with an enduring commitment to sustainability. He added, It is not always possible, for example, to integrate recycled materials into production. In the case of waste management, biopharma companies cannot recycle many substances as they have been in contact with active ingredients. This would be too dangerous for humans and the environment alike. Perhaps net-zero emissions are somewhat ambitious, but not unattainable and the industry should take all necessary steps to be more sustainable, to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Ayesha Siddiqui Industry authority to re-join business in a newly created role Mumbai-based ACG, an integrated pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturing solutions provider, has announced that Shankar Gupta will be re-joining the business in the newly created role of Chief Sales Officer. In his new role, Gupta will be responsible for driving sales across all four ACG divisions (Films and Foils, Capsules, Inspection and Engineering) in order to continue building the companys One ACG agenda. Essentially, this will involve bringing further uniformity to ACG's customer outreach processes, creating more integrated solutions, and ultimately providing a consistent brand experience to ACGs global customers, regardless of business division or location. He will also focus on scaling new initiatives. Gupta will report directly into the Managing Director, Karan Singh. He is expected to be playing a pivotal in calibrating and aligning the company's business units to the goal of Making it Better, and the belief that everyone deserves access to good medicine. Think of your website's on-page, off-page, and technical search engine optimisation (SEO) as your way to speak 'Google'. The point of search engines is to deliver relevant and authoritive content to its visitors. By ticking the SEO boxes (that are in your control) you essentially make it easier for Google and other search engines to categorise your website. An added advantage is that by knowing what the algorithms are looking for you can improve your website and better strategise your marketing initiatives going forward. But first, lets look at the differences between the three types of SEO: On-page SEO: As the name suggests, it is all the positive SEO things you can do on your actual website pages; making use of the right keywords, writing unique content, and saving & naming images correctly. Off-page SEO: This you can do on other relevant and authoritative websites that can enhance the credibility of your own; writing a guest blog for example. Technical SEO: All the technical Google-approved aspects your website must adhere to; security, stability, mobile responsive, etc. Top on-page SEO tips: Create high-quality, relevant content: Whatever content (copy, videos, images, vlogs, infographics, etc.) you have on your website, ensure they are unique, interesting, informative, and relevant to your audience. Whatever content (copy, videos, images, vlogs, infographics, etc.) you have on your website, ensure they are unique, interesting, informative, and relevant to your audience. Write significant meta descriptions and title tags : The meta description is the short paragraph that displays with your meta title tag in search results. Highlight the best information and most relevant keyword/s here. : The meta description is the short paragraph that displays with your meta title tag in search results. Highlight the best information and most relevant keyword/s here. Use relevant keywords: Research the terms or phrases that best describe what each page is about and use these in your headers as well as in your images alt text area. Top off-page SEO tips: Create valuable, insightful and shareable content: Create great podcasts, videos, blogs, infographics, guest blogs, ebooks, surveys, and white papers for multiple platforms. Create great podcasts, videos, blogs, infographics, guest blogs, ebooks, surveys, and white papers for multiple platforms. Manage your reputation: Obtain reviews, be visible on social media, send out newsletters to your subscribers, hold and/or attend events, join forums, get an influencer, etc. Obtain reviews, be visible on social media, send out newsletters to your subscribers, hold and/or attend events, join forums, get an influencer, etc. Build local SEO: Create a Google My Business account and make the most of this free platform. Add photos, answer questions, and encourage your customers to write reviews on it. A local domain name like .joburg, .capetown, or .durban, can also assist with this. Top technical SEO tips: Invest in a secure connection: A Secure Socket Layer (SSL) will encrypt communication between your website and any visiting browser. It will also build trust as your URL will showcase as secure with a padlock or as https. A Secure Socket Layer (SSL) will encrypt communication between your website and any visiting browser. It will also build trust as your URL will showcase as secure with a padlock or as https. Make sure your site is responsive: How does your website display on mobile devices? Did you know Google has a Mobile-First approach to indexing results? Get your web developer involved and ensure your website doesnt get penalised. How does your website display on mobile devices? Did you know Google has a Mobile-First approach to indexing results? Get your web developer involved and ensure your website doesnt get penalised. Check your page loading speeds: A website that takes longer than two seconds to load may have high bounce rates. People dont like a slow site therefore neither do search engines. Improve loading speeds by investing in the best in local web hosting and making sure your image files are resized for the web. SEO can become quite complex, so its a great idea to get an expert in once your business can afford to do so. Dont have a website yet? Get started with Domains.co.zas Site Builder. For a small monthly fee (domain and hosting included*) you can build your own professional website and be online in a matter of hours. News that Cabinet has approved the submission of the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill of 2018 to Parliament is a major milestone for tobacco control in South Africa. Welcoming the move are South Africas health organisations which form part of Protect our Next - an activism group that is making it easier for South Africans to choose smoke-free lives, regulate the danger of e-cigarettes and decrease the impact of second-hand smoke on the majority of the population, who are non-smokers. The health organisations forming part of Protect our Next include the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS), the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) and the South African Tobacco Free Youth Forum (Satfyf). Amidst strong public support for key measures, the organisations are hopeful the Bill will become law within 2023. Prof Lekan Ayo-Yusuf, director of NCAS and head of the School of Health Systems and Public Health at the University of Pretoria says: While there is still a way to go, we are pleased that progress is being made on legislating these vital measures to better protect the health of the nation. "This bill is a strong updated piece of legislation that closes loopholes and addresses aspects not covered by current legislation, such as the proper regulation of novel products including e-cigarettes. Proposals in the bill, in particular 100% smoke-free public places, health warnings and a complete ban on all marketing and advertising, come at low or no cost to the State. "Passing the bill will reduce exposure to tobacco, delay initiating young people to smoking and bring South Africas domestic legislation closer to full implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), a global standard. Ayo-Yusuf points out that the Bill is about more than health, and that strong tobacco control is good news for the economy. Tobacco-related premature deaths through non-communicable diseases and other tobacco-related diseases stifle South Africas economic development. "As tobacco use is currently estimated to cost South Africa R42bn per year in tobacco-related illnesses, reducing these costs is essential. Keeping numbers of people needing healthcare down is further central to the sustainability of the National Health Insurance, so that numbers are kept at a level where it is possible to provide good quality care to all that need it. Where to from here? So how long will it be before the Bill can become law and what are the next steps? The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) will gazette the Bill for information. At this point, the Bill is a public document and anyone can access it, once gazetted. Simultaneously, the Bill will progress to Parliament. First, it goes to the Speaker of Parliament, followed by the Health Portfolio Committee, which then calls for Parliamentary public hearings and votes on it. Then, it's tabled before National Assembly (NA) for a vote. If it passes, it goes to National Council of Provinces (NCOP) which takes it to provinces for provincial public hearings. Five of the nine provinces must support it so it can be signed into law by the President. There are many variables in these timeframes, but our hope would be that we can move through these processes and see the Bill signed into law within 2023, says Ayo-Yusuf. The Bill was first published in 2018 and closed for public consultation in August of that year. We cannot afford to lose more time and more lives. The first Global Adult Tobacco Survey conducted in South Africa (GATS-SA) in 2021, which showed high levels of tobacco use (29.4%) and secondhand smoke exposure, further supports the implementation of the Bill, says Dr Catherine Egbe, specialist scientist within the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) alcohol, tobacco and other drugs research unit. Government now has all the empirical evidence needed to support and progress every aspect of the measures in the new Bill. GATS-SA results further show that the Bill has strong public support, including support for 100% smoke-free public places. 88.4%, or nine out of 10 adults support a ban on smoking in indoor workplaces and public places, which confirms that people are conscious of their right to an environment that is not harmful to health. Through passing the Bill, government would be adhering to their constitutional mandate to provide health-enhancing environments for our society, says Egbe. We have long campaigned for better measures that can reduce the impact of NCDs, including cancer, on South Africa, which are currently responsible for the deaths of 50,9% of South Africans and cause major ill health and suffering, says Lorraine Govender, national manager, health promotion, CANSA. We are excited to see that the Bill is making progress through legislative processes and look forward to stronger legislation that will better protect our health. Our youth deserve better protection from tobacco and e-cigarettes, says Sanele Zulu of the South African Tobacco-Free Youth Forum (Satfyf). Through implementing the cost-effective, proven measures in the Bill, including restrictions on tobacco-industry marketing activities and prominent health-warning labels, we can turn the tide on youth addiction to nicotine. This cannot happen soon enough. Five key measures in the Bill include: Smoke-free public places When it comes to exposure to smoke, the Bill will require 100% smoke-free indoor, and certain outdoor, public places. This is essential as many South Africans are exposed to second-hand smoke, says Egbe. GATS-SA shows that 11.2% are exposed to second-hand smoke at work (7% are non-smokers) and 18% at home (9.6% are non-smokers). Women are mostly exposed at home from their partners, according to Egbe, while very few have the power to make their homes smoke-free. An alarming 74.4% of people are exposed at bars, taverns, pubs, shebeens or night clubs, 10.8% at restaurants and 5.8% at government buildings, which are supposed to be smoke-free. About 4% are even exposed at healthcare facilities. Egbe highlights that a concerningly high percentage of non-smokers are exposed at educational institutions. Of the 16% exposed to second-hand smoke in tertiary Institutions, 46.3% are non-smokers, while 20% of people are exposed in schools, 35.2% of whom are non-smokers. 93% of South Africans believe that smoking can cause serious illnesses, and the same percentage believe that breathing other peoples smoke can cause serious illnesses in non-smokers, says Egbe. Plain packaging for tobacco and nicotine products 80% of smokers say they notice current textual health warnings on cigarette packs, but less than 40% said seeing current warnings would make them think of quitting. When it comes to hookah, most hookah smokers dont even see the packs. Less than half say they noticed health warnings, and 19% said they would think of quitting based on current packs. Smokeless tobacco showed the same ratio, with only 52% noticing warnings and 25% saying the warnings made them think of quitting. What we have is not effective, says Egbe. We need more to encourage people to quit and stop people starting. 67% of smokers agree that textual health warnings would not stop them from smoking, while 58% said graphic health warnings, showing the health consequences of tobacco use, would encourage them to quit. This tells you that the plain packaging and graphic warning policy can help and is supported. Regulating electronic cigarette use Emerging products including e-cigarettes and hookahs are mostly used by younger age groups with the highest percentage usage of e-cigarettes being in the age 15 to 24 category. Alarmingly, 21% of people have been using these products for more than two years, says Egbe. While e-cigarettes are positioned as a smoking cessation aid by the industry, this wasnt always the case. When they were going to be brought into the country, the Department of Health tried to stop them. Egbe continues: "In court documents, industry clearly stated that these products would not serve as cessation aids, and are not going to be marketed as such. Now, when the department is trying to regulate the product, it is presenting them as smoking cessation aids. In South Africa, medicines are regulated by SAPHRA. So, if these products are to be presented as cessation aids, they would need to be certified and passed through the standard procedure. Even normal nicotine patches that are available over the counter went through that procedure." Egbe says we have been contaminated with misinformation from the electronic cigarette industry. When e-cigarettes are marketed to smokers, they simply want them to switch addiction. That is worrying. We want users to quit for good. When you quit tobacco, you should become free from nicotine as well. Removal of points-of-sale ads Egbe says it is not coincidental that younger people are the biggest noticers of tobacco promotion, at 37% in the 15 to 24 age range. Egbe highlights that in the UK and other countries, tobacco products are not allowed to be on display. When you want to buy cigarettes, you dont see them. They are in a cupboard; you only see the price list. This is what we need in South Africa, and this is what the Bill wants to make happen. When it comes to e-cigarettes, regulation of advertising is critical. Weve all seen the prominent, brightly coloured displays of e-cigarettes in malls, kiosks and stores. You dont see cigarettes displayed like this; it is not allowed, says Egbe. However, because the current law doesnt include e-cigarettes, the industry exploits this legislative vacuum. The youth is clearly its market. Removal of vending machines Tobacco products are dangerous and should not be accessed by under-age people, says Egbe. Vending machines further serve as display advertising, that all ages can access. These products should not be associated with chips and candies as you see happen with the display in vending machines. Egbe highlighted the need to protect young people from being targeted, saying the statistics on tobacco-use initiation call for sober reflection. Most young people between the ages of 15 and 24 (77.1%) purchased their cigarettes from spaza shops and kiosks. GATS-SA shows that almost 75% start smoking before they can really make the distinction between what is addiction and what is not. 18% start before they are 15, and 43% by 16. We cannot have young people, who are still trying to figure themselves out, being introduced to an addictive substance. South Africa is haemorrhaging vital tech skills to global companies, in some instances hobbling companies in the IT sector. This is being made worse by skills-hungry fintechs and crypto startups which have the VC funding to attract the scarce skills they need, over and above the pandemic, and the resulting normalisation of work-from-home, that has resulted in companies realising that they can find better skills, more cost-effectively, globally. However, a local software engineering company says the answer is more complex than simply offering bigger salaries. Martin Dippenaar While we have been lucky compared to some, the ability to work remotely, boosted by lockdowns, has opened up a whole world of opportunities for our scarce developer, data analysts, data scientist as well as general IT skills, and most local companies simply cant compete with international salaries, explains Martin Dippenaar, CEO at software engineering specialists, Global Kinetic. Dippenaars sentiments are backed up by recent studies, including OfferZens 2022 State of the Developer Nation report, which reports that more than 30% of South African developers are looking to move jobs within the next 12 months. The company also warns that one in five remote South African developers work for companies based in a different city, underpinning the impact of remote work has had on the countrys limited skills base. Dippenaar says the skills crisis has been felt most by medium and smaller companies which cant easily offer the bigger salaries required to keep scarce skills. Even the largest companies like Meta and Apple, which have put moratoriums on upper management and C-suite hires are still onboarding engineers. Unfortunately these guys have the capital to hold onto skills and, with this financial clout, can source the skills from anywhere across the globe. In this kind of environment, partnering with a company that can provide managed software delivery services, and who has the staff, becomes especially advantageous, he explains. Fintech and crypto boom adding pressure The current reality in the South African technology industry is that in-demand skills are so sought after that workers can pick and choose where they go. The market out there is so competitive that we have seen developers leave because they are being offered a salary equivalent to that of a director in smaller companies. We also see the significant growth in fintechs and especially crypto startups exacerbating our current dilemma. In addition, when a tech team member is attracted to global companies the lure of staying long enough to qualify for an EU or other passport is huge, which will prevent them returning to the country in the near future, Dippenaar shares. The need for skills in the fintech space is huge and Dippenaar says that not only is there a demand, but the firms looking for the skills now have the cash to secure them. The last quarter of 2021 and early 2022 have been a boomtime for local and continent-wide tech funding, with the total venture capital funding in Africa hitting $1.8bn in the first quarter of 2022 alone a 150% increase compared with the same period last year, according to Africa-focused database The Big Deal. Moreover, fintechs accounted for 62% of all startup investments last year, according to Briter Bridges. A new way of incentivising The lure of foreign shores has been amplified over the last few years with global companies quickly realising just how valuable South African workers are. Dippenaar points out that there are some things that local companies can do to convince a young technologist to stay. It is tricky though when they are being offered a sizable salary increase along with all their relocation costs taken care of not to mention the added incentive of dual nationality after just five or six years. The latest stats from McKinsey shows that the main reason for quitting a job (41%) is lack of career advancement, slightly ahead of poor remuneration at 36%. Money is always going to be at the top of the list, and one could even argue that people are more comfortable saying it is career advancement when it actually has more to do with money. However, even taking that into account, there are many things a company can do to retain staff. The most important thing is to ensure your staff have a sense of purpose, that they feel valued and that they are in a supportive team environment that will allow them to grow and thrive, Dippenaar shares. While he acknowledges that these indicators can be harder to cater for, Dippenaar is quick to point out that there is technology that can be used to help IT leaders address their staffing challenges. We all know that to make incremental changes we must first have the ability to measure the current and future state of affairs. We have developed Team First, which has been designed to help detect where there are issues inside teams. This may not be the entire solution, but it adds data-based insight that can assist leaders to begin to craft a more holistic value proposition. As a technology company which relies on our skills, the one thing we know for sure is that we must take action to create an environment where all our team members can find meaning and purpose. It will be the differentiator which could ensure our survival, he says. About Global Kinetic Global Kinetic is a premium software business with extensive experience and expertise in enterprise grade software engineering and digital transformation projects. Trusted across multiple global industries, and with deep expertise in banking and fintech, Global Kinetic has pioneered innovative solutions to complex enterprise projects for almost 20 years. A matured and perfected managed team approach guarantees high quality and predictability, augmented by unique strategic technology consulting services and software delivery accelerators. With just over 100 permanent employees in Cape Town and Palo Alto, Global Kinetic is an evangelist of agile, cloud, mobile and enterprise software engineering. Following their highly successful performances at Montecasino's Teatro this past weekend, South Africa's singing ambassadors, the Ndlovu Youth Choir presented by Showtime Management continues its first ever headline tour arriving in Cape Town for five shows at Artscape from Friday, 7 October to Sunday, 9 October 2022. The demand for tickets remains high, with limited tickets still available at www.showtime.co.za or Webtickets.co.za and at Webtickets at Pick n Pay outlets. To avoid disappointment, fans are encouraged to book as soon as possible. Ndlovu Youth Choir in Concert features many of the Choirs famous hits such as Africa, Shallow/Enxwemeni, Shape of You, Higher Love, Ungandibulali and We Will Rise. The repertoire includes a Masekela Medley honouring the late 'Bra' Hugh Masekela as well as other popular local hits such as African Dream made famous by Vicky Sampson; Mango Grooves Special Star and Letta Mbulus Not Yet Uhuru. Blending local favourites with internationally renowned hits such as Circle of Life from Disneys The Lion King; U2s Beautiful Day and Don McLeans Vincent these highly talented choristers also feature their newest songs, Man in the Mirror and Grateful, from their third studio album entitled Grateful which was released earlier this year across all streaming platforms. The enthusiastic 18-member Ndlovu Youth Choir is ready to light up the Artscape stage with their vibrant song and dance. They are particularly looking forward to performing for Cape Town audiences. Ralf Schmitt, artistic director, Ndlovu Youth Choir says: "We are both excited and honoured to be staging our first headlining tour of South Africa. After the difficult time during lockdown we realise what a privilege it is to play in front of live audiences and to be on a stage, in a theatre in front of admiring fans. We take this opportunity to heart, fully appreciating how special it is to be to present songs from our brand new album as well as all our best loved songs. We cant wait to feel the energy from the Cape Town audience. From their home base in the Moutse Valley in rural Limpopo to reaching the finals of America's Got Talent (Season 14) the Ndlovu Youth Choir has played sold-out performances in Europe and appeared on many local and international television and radio shows. They have collaborated with many artists such as Master KG, 25k, Sun-El Musician, Tyler ICU and performed for the likes of Trevor Noah and Bill Gates. Soon the highly talented and proudly South African Ndlovu Youth Choir will be on stage in Cape Town. Seats are limited so hurry, book today at www.showtime.co.za. The Department of Basic Education has released the Grade 12 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination timetable; this means that exams are around the corner. Exam season can be an incredibly stressful time for all learners, especially with the weight of expectation in these economically challenging times. How are learners supposed to cope? According to Dr Bernadette Aineamani, director at Pearson South Africa, many learners feel overwhelmed by the amount of information they are required to retain. This problem is particularly where a lot of material is covered, learners may not know where to start, and endless amounts of content available simply doesnt mean that information gets adequately retained or remembered when needed, says Aineamani. Aineamani recommends ten ways in which learners can tackle their exams with confidence: Be at your exam venue at least 30 minutes before your exam starts. Stay calm and do not panic. Approach every question in a calm way, take deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed. Read the instructions and entire question paper before starting the examination. Read each question carefully to ensure that you understand how to best answer the question. Write neatly. Adhere to the mark allocation of each question. Refrain from giving too much or too little information. Show your workings and calculations in brackets if required. Do not use correction fluid or tippex. Do not leave questions out even if a question looks unfamiliar, at least try to provide some answers. Remember you are competing with yourself. Do not start panicking when another learner completes the question paper before you do. I also encourage learners to take time off to rest and recuperate when needed. It is vital that mental health is looked after because stress and pressure are in abundance while calm and focus are the key to examination success, advises Aineamani. Local tours on the rise during holiday 10:13, October 03, 2022 By Zhu Wenqian ( China Daily Tourists visit the Temple of Heaven in Beijing on Sunday. Local tourism has been booming in many cities nationwide, including Beijing, Chongqing and Shanghai, during this year's National Day holiday. PANG ZHENGZHENG/FOR CHINA DAILY Tourism trend gains more ground as consumer habits change due to COVID On the first day of the weeklong National Day holiday, the number of day-trip travelers participating in local tours or traveling to nearby regions almost doubled compared to last year, online travel agencies said. Bookings at hotels and bed-and-breakfasts (B&B) in suburban Beijing were hot commodities. The booking volume for B&B stays in the capital's Miyun district was three times higher year-on-year, said Toncheng Travel, a Suzhou, Jiangsu province-based online travel agency. The trend also reflects a change in habits among travelers facing the potential risk of a COVID-19 resurgence, it said. On Saturday, the top five cities recording the highest booking volumes for admission to local tourist attractions were Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu in Sichuan province, Guangzhou in Guangdong province and Chongqing. Among them, bookings from travelers born in the 1990s and after 2000 accounted for nearly half of the total, said Trip.com Group, China's largest online travel agency. "More people taking trips locally will help expand the growth potential of local travel resources. The break serves as an opportunity for business operators to showcase their abilities. They compete to attract local consumers to revisit by providing high-quality services and innovative activities," said Shen Jiani, a senior researcher at Trip.com's research institute. Zhou Weihong, deputy general manager of Springtour Travel Agency, said organizing local tours has become a new business growth opportunity for the agency. Some of its tour guides who guided group tours abroad or on domestic long-haul trips have transferred to local tours and netted stable incomes. This year, consumers have become more flexible when making travel decisions, and more people tend to book hotels within one week in advance or even on the same day of their stay, Tongcheng Travel said. "Staying at local hotels has become a new normal for taking vacations locally. High-end resorts, hotels that are child-friendly and cater to pets, and esports have been favored by consumers," said Cheng Chaogong, chief of tourism research at Tongcheng. In Shanghai, Disney Resort and Changxing Island in Chongming district have drawn the attention of local consumers. While in the East China's Fujian province, due to better control of COVID-19, there is also a year-on-year surge in hotel booking volumes in cities including Fuzhou, Xiamen and Quanzhou, ranking top among its peers nationwide, Tongcheng Travel said. For long-distance trips, travelers are willing to get up close with nature and view autumn scenery. Taking bamboo rafts on the scenic Lijiang River in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, or going to Xishuangbanna Dai autonomous prefecture, Yunnan province, are among the most popular destinations nationwide, it said. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) HYDERABAD: With the Election Commission of India (ECI) issuing the Munugode Assembly by-election schedule on Monday, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has decided to intensify its campaign a day after Dasara by holding a second public meeting of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao in the constituency at Chandur, which will be followed by another in Narayanpur. In all, 86 MLAs, including the party working president K.T. Rama Rao and finance minister T.Harish Rao have been entrusted with the task of ensuring a TRS victory. Meanwhile, Chandrashekar Rao is likely to declare former Munugode MLA Kusukuntla Prabhakar Reddy as TRS candidate on Wednesday. The Chief Minister held a meeting with some ministers, MLAs, MLCs and MPs, who were available in the city, on Monday and discussed the poll strategy and campaigning. He sought the leaders to reach out to every voter with the state government's welfare schemes and development programmes. There are seven mandals, two municipalities and 157 gram panchayats in Munugode Assembly constituency. South Africa is globally ranked as one of the most vulnerable countries when it comes to cybercrime. The lack of a strong, centralised approach for protecting the country's national and privately-owned digital assets is just one of many weaknesses. Throughout our society, there's a pervasive lack of awareness of cyber threats and how to properly mitigate them. This may be because cybercrimes can seem complex, opaque and ethereal. Image supplied The vast majority of cyber-attacks against South African businesses and individuals are carried out by international cyber criminal groups operating far outside of our borders and jurisdiction. What is needed is much stricter security minimum standards enforced on the country's enterprises handling personal data and providing essential services. Enforcement of these standards and the data protection laws of the PoPI Act need to be better implemented. Staggeringly, the World Economic Forum has estimated that 95% of data breaches occur due to human error. Cybercrimes represent billions of dollars in lost revenue every year, and it's clear that there's an urgent need for training and mobilising people to be actively involved in cybersecurity. International Cyber Awareness Month is celebrated in October, and in 2022 the theme is 'See yourself in Cyber'. It's a straightforward appeal to individuals; consumers and employees, business owners and leaders to recognise that like all crime, cyber wrongdoing is all about people. There are basic steps that everyone can take to protect their online information and privacy on the job, at home and at school. In the workplace, it's not enough for the tech team or IT department to be cyber-savvy - every employee working on the company system in the office or remotely needs to understand threats such as phishing and social engineering so that they can recognise and report them. According to CSO Online, phishing attacks account for more than 80% of reported cybersecurity Incidents. This happens on this scale because too many people simply cannot discern this criminal tactic and are duped. Many organisations deploy spam filters, advanced firewalls, network access controls and endpoint scanning tools to mitigate increasing cyber threats, but unfortunately, no technology can account for human error entirely. This is not just relevant to big companies, small and medium businesses, which tend to deploy less cybersecurity tools, are viewed by cybercriminals as the 'low hanging fruit'. This means that no matter the size of your company, effective security awareness training is essential in educating all your end-users so that they understand the security risks associated with their actions and use best practices for staying security-savvy. Creating a secure working culture in businesses today is essential. Business owners, company executives and board of directors are beginning to take cyber risk just as seriously as any other form of business risk, such as financial risk. This top-down driven prioritisation of cybersecurity is a critical success factor in protecting a company's digital assets, and the consumer data you may be storing. Cybersecurity should be front of mind in all activities and at all levels of the organisation. Employees should be rewarded for secure behaviours and managers should be equally rewarded for effectively driving cybersecurity awareness and encouraging behavioural change in the organisation. In recognition of Cyber Awareness Month and the impact of cybercrime on us all, South African consumers can take these three basic steps to keep their data safe at work, home or school: Cabinet on Friday, 30 September, approved a new board of directors at Eskom, after power outages reached record levels this year. Minister of public enterprises Pravin Gordhan. 2018. Source: Reuters/Sumaya Hisham Public enterprises minister Pravin Gordhan told a news conference that the new board would assume its duties over the weekend and would be chaired by Mpho Makwana who previously served on the Eskom board and currently chairs the Nedbank board. Other new board members include senior business figures like Mteto Nyati who has held executive positions at telecoms company MTN and technology firm Altron, and former trade unionist Bheki Ntshalintshali. Gordhan told reporters that Andre de Ruyter remained Eskom chief executive officer and Calib Cassim chief financial officer, but the new board is expected to review their performance as well as that of the entire management. Saddled with unreliable coal-fired power stations and a mountain of debt, Eskom has struggled to meet electricity demand for more than a decade. Slow progress frustrating public President Cyril Ramaphosa has been trying to reform Eskom to make it more efficient since becoming head of state in 2018 but his administration has made slow progress, fuelling public frustration. Eskom has had vacancies on its board for several years. Since January 2020, the board had been headed by Malegapuru William Makgoba, who took up the post after the previous chairman resigned following another period of major power cuts. Eskom's spokesman declined to comment on the board appointments, saying they were a shareholder affair, referring to the government. Ramaphosa made fresh pledges to tackle the country's power crisis in July, including slashing red tape and buying surplus electricity from private producers. Finance minister Enoch Godongwana is also expected to outline government plans to deal with Eskom's roughly R400bn debt burden at next month's mid-term budget. He has said there is agreement that the government will have to take on some of Eskom's debt, but the question remains how much of it the state could absorb. Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, has published the gazetted National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NCGBVF) Bill, 2022. The Minister intends to introduce the Bill in Parliament, in terms of section 73 of the Constitution. Nkoana-Mashabane said the gazetting of the Bill is a major step forward in driving a multi-sectoral, coherent strategic policy and programming framework to ensure a coordinated national response to the crisis of GBVF by the government of South Africa and the country as a whole. She said the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, once established, will be the custodian of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (GBVF-NSP) and will be responsible for driving its implementation. Currently, the implementation of the NSP on GBVF is being driven by the End GBVF Collective a volunteerism-based collective of government, civil society, development partners, business individuals, who have banded together under the pillars of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF to respond to a stubborn pandemic that continues to impact the lives of women and girls daily, Nkoana-Mashabane said. She said the process of developing this legislation is in line with the declaration of the Presidential Summit Against GBVF, held on 1 and 2 November 2018 and the GBVF-NSP. Nkoana-Mashabane, in her capacity as the chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, welcomed this step, saying that the National Strategic Plan envisages a National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide that is based on a multi-sectoral approach. Once established and operational, the council will work with key government departments, civil society organisations and the private sector. This will contribute to building ongoing national, provincial and local accountability for urgent, comprehensive and all-inclusive response to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Advocate Mikateko Joyce Maluleke, commended the gazetting of the Bill as critical step in realising the goals set out in the NSP on GBVF. Maluleke said as far back as 1998, the South African government promulgated the Domestic Violence Act, which covered a wide range of abuses, from physical and sexual, to economic, psychological, stalking, and damage to property, amongst others. More recently... the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development [made] amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill (NRSO), Domestic Violence Bill, and the Criminal Matters Amendment Bill. The Department of Social Development also opened up the Victim Support Services Bill for public comment. Amongst its scope, this Bill also proposes to make it a legal requirement that all service providers deal with victims of abuse in a professional manner, ensuring the dignity of the victim is preserved at all times during the process. These Bills strengthen the legal environment that provides justice for survivors of GBVF, said Maluleke. Drafting of the Bill Government drafted the Bill in consultation with multiple stakeholders, in line with the Development of Public Policy and Subordinate Legislation guidelines. Between June and September 2020, the department held public consultation webinars to share the status quo with regards to establishing the NCGBVF, and governments thinking on the NCGBVFs Terms of Reference (TOR). During the webinars, the department also shared the legislative framework and governments representation on the NCGBVF. This was also an opportunity for civil society to share its thinking on the NCGBVFs TORs, the legislative framework and all other matters related to the NCGBVF. In September 2020, Nkoana-Mashabane met with business associations to deliberate on the process of establishing the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. The webinar solicited inputs on the draft Terms of Reference and the selection criteria for members to form part of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, as well as other measures to speed up the implementation of the National Strategic Plan. In October 2020, the department held a roundtable discussion to engage on realising the outcomes of the NSP on GBVF. The roundtable centred on the Terms of Reference for establishment of the NCGBVF. In October 2021, the department published the Bill in the government gazette to solicit public inputs and comments. In addition, in November and December 2021, provincial consultations were held to solicit inputs into the Bill. The Bill has been supported by the National Economic Development and Labour Council. The Bill was certified as constitutionally sound by the Office of the Chief State Law Adviser and having met all legal drafting requirements. Nkoana-Mashabane has thanked the stakeholders who worked on drafting the Bill, made contributions, and worked with the department in reaching this milestone. The National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide and the NCGBVF Bill can be found at: https://www.dwypd.gov.za/index.php/resource-centre/gender-based-violence-femicide. You can also learn more about how a Bill becomes a Law at: https://pmg.org.za/page/legislativeprocess. Independent strategic brand agency, Boomtown, has reached a significant milestone for its Bayeza Graduate Internship Programme by marking its 10-year anniversary since the inception of the career-changing programme. Striving for the fine balance between empowering the youth and producing quality advertising creative to progress into the future, the graduate programme, Bayeza, meaning 'they are coming' in isiXhosa, aims to better the next generation of optimist creatives and marketers who have a passion for the advertising industry and believe in being better, always. Our agency is a national contender in the digital, marketing and advertising world. We like to think the agency is an inspiring environment for all who enter its doors and are excited to once again welcome all graduates to see what we see and take the opportunity to be a part of an innovative team that creates ground-breaking, rich, and meaningful work, said Boomtown CEO Glen Meier. The internship welcomes all graduates from across South Africa to experience agency life and the infectious Boomtown spirit of believing in better, for graduates and their clients. For the 2023 intake, the agency is looking for graduates to join either the Gqeberha (previously known as Port Elizabeth) or Johannesburg offices in their various departments, including but not limited to account management, brand strategy, digital and social media, conceptual copywriting, conceptual art direction, animation, and graphic design. According to Meier, the agency will be there for the 2023 interns every step of the way, helping them to learn through on-the-ground experience, and helping them gain valuable knowledge and insights into what it is like to be part of the advertising industry. Interacting with our talented mentors and receiving guidance from managers as they grow and develop their advertising skills. The application process consists of three steps: Submission of a CV and indication of which position is desirable. Receiving a brief and subsequent submission of the response to that brief. An interview, during which the submitted brief will be assessed. The closing date is 30 November 2022. Successful applicants will need to be in Gqeberha or Johannesburg, ready to start work on Wednesday, 1 February 2023. For further information visit www.boomtown.agency/bayeza-internship-programme/. A Western Cape business outsourcing specialist has won a national award for its commitment to creating meaningful job prospects and opportunities in disadvantaged communities. Sigma Connected South Africa, which offers customer contact services in multiple sectors, has won the Jobs Creation Award as part of countrys respected Top Empowerment Awards. The award highlights organisations across South Africa that contribute towards the alleviation of poverty by tackling unemployment, whilst also displaying leadership, and the ability to prove a lasting impact in their communities. All businesses in the awards are independently assessed and scored against other shortlisted organisations. Sigma Connected was recognised for its work over the past two years, alongside its partners, to bring almost 200 jobs to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. David Neale, managing director of Sigma Connected South Africa said: We are hugely committed to bringing new jobs to communities and young people, but also know the importance of providing the best training and entry-level careers for excluded youth. This award underlines those commitments and we are delighted to be recognised nationally for the impact we are making across the Western Cape and beyond in our offices in Johannesburg and Pretoria. However, it is only the start of the journey, and our plan to recruit and train hundreds more people over the next few years continues. Mr Neale added: It is another tremendous milestone for us and underlines again how seriously we tackle the issue and make things happen in disadvantaged communities. The award comes just months after Sigma Connected opened its new state-of-the-art contact centre in Cape Flats community, Mitchells Plain. In July, the company became the first GBS operation to provide contact centre services from Mitchells Plain, taking jobs to the communities where they are most needed. The move supports the commitment to create 1,000 new jobs by 2025. Earlier this summer Sigma Connected was the countrys only BPO invited to the Youth Opportunities Expo, part of the 46th Annual Youth Day which was a public endorsement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the work Sigma Connected has done to create employment in South Africa. "We will not go anywhere. We earned the right to live on this land when we worked for free as labour tenants after arriving on this farm in the 1980s," says Margaret Makgomola, a resident of Tilly's farm in Mogale City. Maria Kwapeng, long-time resident of Tillys farm, who arrived with her three-year-old daughter, Merium, in 1982, standing in a lane between temporary shelters built by a property company on court orders. Photos: Kimberly Mutandiro Hers is one of 15 families that have stuck it out on Portion 77 of the farm Nooitgedacht after their homes were bulldozed by a property developer in July. MaxxLiving, a Dutch-South African property company, acquired the land two years ago. CEO Arthur Bezuidenhout said he offered all residents an alternative piece of land and structures on another plot in the area, prior to demolitions. According to community representative Moss Sekobane, there were shacks as well as brick and mortar structures housing over 450 residents. Most of these families relocated. 'Constructive eviction' But the legal eviction process was not completed. And 15 families claimed Extension of Security of Tenure Act (ESTA) rights and refused to move. The company had demolished their homes as well, leaving the 15 families, including Makgomola, sleeping in the open on a piece of land 200 metres from their flattened residences. In court papers, the families also said their toilets were removed and their water and electricity cut off in an act of constructive eviction. They went to the Land Claims Court, which ordered on 22 July that new brick homes be built for them by the property developer within 90 days, and that they be provided with temporary housing units with water and toilets in the interim. The court also ordered compensation of R100,000 to be shared amongst the families. Temporary structures were erected for the 15 families remaining on Tillys farm. Basic services still outstanding Mogale City Municipality was included as respondents in the matter. It was to assist with the provision of services to the families. But a month since the order was granted, the families say they are still battling with the developer and the municipality to get basic services as ordered by the court. The developer also took its time providing temporary structures and an urgent contempt of court application was filed on 9 September. Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR), who are representing the occupants, say 30 shacks have now been built to be shared by the 15 families, but only one pit toilet was provided and the water tanker is currently and often empty. The respondents remain in contempt and we intend to hold them accountable for failing to do what they agreed upon, said David Dickinson, candidate attorney at LHR. There is no sign yet of the brick homes the court ordered to be built. LHR says it will return to court on 13 October. Margaret Makgomola used to run the community Maphuthaditshaba creche, which can be seen behind her, before the demolitions. Extension of Security of Tenure Act rights The order granted on 28 July said the respondents property developers MaxxLiving and its affiliate Crimson King, and the municipality were required to uphold the applicants ESTA rights until such a time as the applicants may become owners, either individually or through an appropriate legal entity. Furthermore, insofar as the new structures may fall within a housing estate to be developed the developers were to ensure that the ESTA occupiers did not become liable for levies to any homeowners association or similar body corporate. Mogale City Municipality has distanced itself from any responsibility and blamed the property developers. Mogale City did not evict the said occupants. We are not property owners who are required to provide services. It is our understanding that the landowner, MaxxLiving, is the one ordered to provide services for the remaining residents and not the municipality. The other residents were also relocated by MaxxLiving, said Tefo Kelebonye, municipal human settlements manager. 'Violation of rights' Being chased away was painful. All we want is to have our homes rebuilt. This is the only home we know, said Margaret Makgomola. She arrived on the farm in 1988 and worked in its kitchen and as a cleaner. Her four children were raised on the farm. At the time of the demolition, now grown up, her children had also built homes. Merium Kwapeng arrived on the farm in 1982 and worked to earn her keep. Her children were also raised on the farm but they joined the relocation to plot 80 before the demolition. Her demolished home had been a brick structure. Destroying our homes was a violation of our rights. We worked on this land and earned the right to live here, said Kwapeng. It was not easy to lose a home where we have grown up and raised our family. We made so many memories there. The modern MaxxLiving housing development with modular, wooden, sustainable homes. Developer says it's lost millions of rands The MaxxLiving flagship housing project is currently under construction, but Bezuidenhout says the company has lost over R20m due to the court case and delays. He said most of the people they had relocated had occupied the land illegally. He claimed the company had created 100 job opportunities for residents and had provided school transport for children. He said the company was weighing its options as to whether the project should continue or not. He said resistance from community members was making it difficult. Such things are scaring away foreign investors, he said. Article originally published on GroundUp. Horror film Mlungu Wam will be shown publicly in South Africa for the first time in October. Source: Picture Supplied. Set in post-apartheid South Africa, the psychological thriller is about Tsidi, a single mother who moves in with her estranged mother Mavis, a live-in domestic worker who cares obsessively for her catatonic white Madam'. Bizcommunity caught up with director Jenna Bass to find out a bit more about the challenges filmmakers continue to face. What were you trying to communicate with this film? The kinds of films that interest me - in watching and making - are those that communicate several things, rather than just one message. Thats probably because I believe life is complicated, and to do it justice, you have show how things interlink and often get messy. With Mlungu Wam, we wanted to make a film that sheds new light on the conversations around inequality and generational trauma that we may have had before, but have become numb to and in so doing, remind ourselves of the actual horror we have normalised in our society. Why is it being shown publicly in October? You can watch films in all kinds of places and ways and still enjoy them. However, Mlungu Wam is a film that inspires a lot of emotions and thoughts and we believe that the very best experience of viewing the film is to share it with others - in the moment of watching it, but also to decompress afterwards, finding new meaning in the conversations that happen when you watch films communally. But also, October is perfect for watching the film around Halloween time! The film came out last year, but is only being shown to SA audiences now. Why? Distributing films is usually a really long and complex process - especially for small, indie films like this. We rely on a strong festival run to get distribution, and this takes time. We then have to negotiate the distribution itself - focusing on international first because at the moment theres less chance of a return at home - we hope we can change this in the future, especially if our release goes well. What are the challenges that filmmakers face in SA? Distribution, as mentioned before, is a huge obstacle, even if you have a few films behind you. We have really very few avenues to not only reach audiences but to prove that making films is a sustainable business proposition. Each successful film we make challenges this, but its a long, hard road. In addition, I dont see the film industry as being any different from our society at large its equally as dysfunctional and in many of the same ways. There is a lack of access, resources and authentic transformation The film industry will always struggle to truly transform until these changes are meaningfully visible in the environment it operates in. What have been the highlights since it has been shown at festivals? Seeing how a small, low-budget film that is almost entirely in isiXhosa and deeply immersed in the specifics of local culture can resonate with audiences worldwide. It proves how wrong people are when telling young filmmakers that only generic storytelling can travel. Also, weve loved seeing how the film has been embraced by such a variety of festivals and their respective audiences - from festivals that specialise in horror, African cinema or human rights - it proves that a single film can contain all of this and mean many things to different people. How long did it take to bring the film to life? Approximately two years. What are the plans for the future? For Jenna and the film. Well be sharing the news about Mlungu Wams streaming release very soon. but its still definitely worth coming out to watch it in person! Me and Babalwa Baartman who is the co-producer and co-writer of the film have a new project in the works called Eziko - an Eastern Cape-set Afro-noir. Tickets can be found here. Senior Art Director Remuneration: market-related Location: Cape Town Job level: Junior/Mid Job policy: Employment Equity position Type: Permanent Reference: #SNRADMvR Company: ninety9cents Working in a team under the leadership of a deputy creative director to conceptualise and execute campaigns based on both client and internal briefs Present work imaginatively and confidently to clients and senior creatives Be skilled in design and conceptualisation a layout master! Maintain exceptionally high standards for execution and attention to detail Collaborate and communicate well with the team and other departments Have an eternally positive disposition especially when the going gets rough Relevant tertiary qualification At least 3-5 years experience as an art director in a large/integrated advertising agency At least one years previous experience in a high-volume, fast-paced environment Demonstrated experience with integrated TTL campaigns across various platforms Social Media, Web-based Art Direction would be preferred Strong skills in design software such as InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator non-negotiable Experience in digital and experiential advertising advantageous, including Animation Strong interpersonal skills; a team player, persuasive negotiator, positive and innovative thinker Maintain high standards for execution and attention to detail Highly motivated and a high level of initiative; ability to work independently, in support of the agencys creative goals and the clients business objectives Experience in presenting campaigns to creative heads and clients Experience working on lower to middle income positioned brands advantageous We are looking for a passionatewith retail client experience, someone with the skill set to capture promotional excitement and breakthrough campaigns. The successful applicant will be tasked to carry visual and conceptual skills from initial brief to final artwork.Our ideal candidate must have a keen eye for little and big details, work extremely well under pressure with quick deadlines, high work volume and demanding pitches. We want someone who is resourceful, a self-starter and a conceptual thinker. If you are all of the above and then some, have great communication skills, exceptional lay-out skills, great Mac skills; know a thing or two about art direction in an Agency environment and plays well with others we want to see your portfolio!Interested candidates must please submit a concise CV and salary expectation, together with your Portfolio (Behance/Wixsite), as part of your application. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within three weeks after submitting your application, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful. We remain committed to the principles of employment equity. Posted on 03 Oct 12:58, Closing date 1 Nov California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law on Sept. 30 that allows the state medical board to discipline physicians for misinformation or disinformation related to COVID-19. According to the law, misinformation means false information that is contradicted by contemporary scientific consensus contrary to the standard of care, while disinformation is misinformation that the licensee deliberately disseminated with malicious intent or an intent to mislead. Newsom gave his reasoning for signing the bill, AB 2098, which was introduced by Democratic Assemblyman Evan Low (D-Campbell). I am signing this bill because it is narrowly tailored to apply only to those egregious instances in which a licensee is acting with malicious intent or clearly deviating from the required standard of care while interacting directly with a patient under their care, Newsom wrote in his signing message. Newsom said the law only applies to physicians speech with patients during discussions directly related to COVID-19 treatment. I am concerned about the chilling effect other potential laws may have on physicians and surgeons who need to be able to effectively talk to their patients about the risks and benefits of treatments for a disease that appeared in just the last few years, he wrote. However, I am confident that discussing emerging ideas or treatments including the subsequent risks and benefits does not constitute misinformation or disinformation under this bills criteria. Opposition to the Bill At noon on Sept. 30, a group of doctors, patients, and civil rights attorneys had gathered at the Capitol building in Sacramento to ask Newsom to veto the bill. Dr. Len Saputo, president of the organization Physicians and Patients Reclaiming Medicine, hosted a press conference at the Capitol. He said the law will fundamentally alter how physicians practice medicine in California. If [Newsom] doesnt veto [SB] 2098, medicine will be changed forever. We will not have the right to counsel our patients in certain areas, because it will be prohibited by law, said Saputo, whos based in Walnut Creek, Calif. Another California doctor in attendance was Dr. Michael Huang, who said the situation in California for many doctors has already become overly restrictive, and the new law would only make things worse. He spoke to the group about one of his patients, a San Jose firefighter who was required to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and afterward lost 50 percent of his exercise capacity, according to Huang. The firefighter was put on unpaid leave, but he was then required to get a booster vaccine. Huang said the firefighter came to see him for a medical exemption. Please help me. I dont want to get hurt again, said the firefighter, according to Huang. Huang said he has been able to help thousands of patients like these who had a valid medical reason to skip the COVID-19 vaccine, and they were able to keep their jobs or go to school even though the vaccine was required. Im here to protect your health, said Huang. Im here to make sure that you will not be hurt. Huang is now under investigation and in jeopardy of losing his medical license for alleged unprofessional conduct. This followed guidance issued by the medical board in August 2021 that physicians could be subject to disciplinary action for granting mask exemptions or other exemptions inappropriately. However, Huang contends he has not acted inappropriately and his exemptions were valid. There are very few medical professionals that are willing to give medical exemptions because they are afraid, Huang told The Epoch Times in December. No Absolute Truth According to a previous interview with Los Angeles-based Dr. Syed Haider, the new law is also expected to target doctors who recommend or prescribe off-label medications such as ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine to their patients for COVID-19. Myself and other doctors from all over the world have had incredible results with off-label protocols including ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine, budesonide, and a number of other protocols, he told The Epoch Times in May. Because of this, hes been reported to four state medical boards by pharmacists he says dont like filling ivermectin prescriptions. He was forced to hire a lawyer to help protect his medical license. In any scientific field or endeavor, there is no absolute truth, he said. Were always getting closer to the truth, but we have never arrived at a final truth in medicine. There always has to be room for debate. Patricia Tolson contributed to this report. HYDERABAD: Shashi Tharoor, the Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP contesting for the post of president of the party, on Monday said there was no question of him withdrawing from the contest saying he cannot betray his colleagues. Tharoor, who is currently campaigning in Hyderabad for the AICC chiefs post against Congress veteran Mallikarjun Kharge, said to withdraw would be to betray the very many colleagues from across the country who spontaneously came forward and asked me to contest. Most of them are ordinary party workers. I will not let them down. When asked why TPCC president A. Revanth Reddy could not meet him, the Thiruvananthapuram MP stated that he had received an invitation from Revanth Reddy to visit his home, but a family bereavement caused a change in the his schedule. "I will gladly meet with him at any time, and if invited to the TPCC office, I will go," he said. On the Telangana Congress leadership deciding to throw all its weight behind Kharge, who is the only other contestant in the Congress presidential polls, Tharoor said it will be up to the delegates to decide who they want to vote for. The partys election authority has already said that there can be no directive to the delegates to vote for a particular candidate. If that happens with a PCC resolution, then that will not be acceptable to the party, he said. He said Kharge was a party leader who everyone in the Congress respected, but these elections are about how the Congress can best prepare to face the formidable challenge of the ruling BJP, which has won two elections. "And we know that unless we attract voters away from the BJP, we will fail," he said. Emphasising the need for a reinvigorated Congress to take on the ruling BJP at the centre, he remarked, The Congress, he said, needs an invigoration to take on this challenge. The only difference is how we do it, Kharge has his vision, I have mine and we will let the delegates choose, he said. A former Pentagon advisor says the most likely culprits behind the Nord Stream pipeline blasts are the United States and Britain, and that the attack was carried out to prevent Germany from bailing on the war in Ukraine. Retired US Army colonel Douglas Macgregor made the comments during an appearance on the Judging Freedom podcast. Macgregor said a process of elimination rules out Germany, because they are dependent on Nord Stream for their energy security, while it also served no benefit for Russia to have sabotaged its own infrastructure. Would the Russians destroy their own pipeline? 40 percent of Russian gross national product or gross domestic product consists of foreign currency that comes into the country to purchase natural gas, oil, coal and so forth. So the Russians did not do this. The notion that they did I think is absurd, Macgregor said. Referring to Polish MEP Radoslaw Sikorskis infamous deleted tweet in which he wrote, Thank you, USA, Macgregor noted, Who else might be involved? Well the Poles apparently seem to be very enthusiastic about it. Douglas Macgregor, former advisor to US Defense Secretary in the administration of Donald Trump, argued the absurdness of the rhetoric that Russia was behind the Nord Stream attack, and said, The Russians did not do this." pic.twitter.com/zVKesXKVIN Comrade Heather (@ComradeHeather) October 2, 2022 However, citing reports that more than 500 kg of TNT had been detected in both explosions, the former Pentagon advisor suggested only the United States and British Royal Navy had the capability to pull off the attack. Then you have to look at who are the state actors that have the capability to do this. And that means the Royal Navy, the United States Navy Special Operations, said Macgregor. I think thats pretty clear. We know that thousands of pounds of TNT were used because these pipelines are enormously robust. You have several inches of concrete around various metal alloys to move the natural gas. So its not something that you could simply drop a grenade down at the end of a fish line and disrupt. That means it takes a certain amount of sophistication, he added. Macgregor suggested that the motive behind the attacks was to prevent Germany from bailing on the Ukraine war after Berlin began to give the impression that they were no longer going to go along with this proxy war in Ukraine. Im hesitant to say we know it must have been Washington. I cant say that because we just dont know. But its very clear that we have foreclosed Berlins options. Berlin was drifting away from this alliance. [Chancellor] Olaf Scholz said Im not sending any more equipment, I wont send any tanks. Now hes in a bind because the United States has simply robbed him of the option of bailing out. Whos going to supply him gas and oil and coal and everything else if he bails out? Where does he turn now? And remember, the Germans, who are facing terrible consequences at home refuse to restart nuclear power plants, the former official said. As we previously reported, the CIA warned Germany of potential attacks on gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea weeks before Nord Stream 1 and 2 were targeted. Both Joe Biden and Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland asserted that Nord Stream 2 wouldnt be allowed to operate if Russia attacked Ukraine. Considered to be the Ten Best UFO Photos Ever Taken I am sure that we could add more pictures to this list but these are considered ten o... When the Australian Art Orchestra was recognised with a prestigious Art Music Luminary Award last month, Peter Knight gave a gracious acceptance speech as the orchestras artistic director. What few people at the ceremony knew was that Knight was planning his departure from the AAO, making the night one of mixed emotions for the trumpeter and sound artist. Peter Knight has directed the Australian Art Orchestra for 10 years. Credit:Sarah Walker Yes, it was a little surreal, Knight says. Receiving that award was a fantastic endorsement of the work weve done together [at the Australian Art Orchestra]. But somehow it also confirmed that Id made the right decision; that this was the right moment. After 10 years in the role, Knight feels its time to hand over the reins. I dont think theres ever a perfect time to finish a job like this, and I could quite easily keep doing it. I love it; its the best job in the world! he says earnestly. But its good to be moving on with the organisation in such a strong position now, with funding from all three levels of government and a lot of interest from the philanthropic sector. I think thats a real positive, in terms of whats possible in future for the next [artistic director]. Knight has nurtured some valuable collaborations and initiatives during his time at the orchestra. When we speak, hes in Tarraleah in central Tasmania, where the AAO hosts its annual Creative Music Intensive. Knight brought the idea of a creative residency to his interview for the AAO position 10 years ago, describing its purpose as bringing musicians together from different disciplines and cultures, and creating new musical possibilities through improvisation. Hes proud of the impact its had on its many young participants, with benefits rippling throughout the jazz community. Too often, schools view First Nations students through a deficit lens, as victims of their own circumstances who must be rescued, OBryan said. The predominant view ... is that they feel as if they can make decisions for kids and families which would never be the case if the kid had white skin, she said. They seem to forget sometimes that the duty of care they owe to an Aboriginal student is exactly the same that they owe to any other kid in the school. A talented student, Nicole soon won a scholarship to attend another private all-girls school for her VCE years. Though she aspired to be a doctor, she was told to lower her sights. When I said I wanted to study medicine they said, why dont you try nursing? There were a lot of low expectations of what I could achieve. Today she is a doctor employed by one of Australias leading universities. In her spare time, she mentors First Nations students at one of her former schools. The other school has recently approached her, hoping to promote its work in educating Indigenous girls. Loading She told them she hoped they were doing a much better job today than they did in her time. Yet the issue is not one-sided. A boarding school education can transform the life of a young First Nations person, OBryan said. Some people who had terrible experiences said they would do it all again tomorrow, or would send their own kids because they recognise the value of education and if education requires sacrifice they will still do it. Its an opportunity for the transformation of your life. Some schools themselves agree that change is needed. Indigenous Education and Boarding Australia, which advocates for non-government schools that enrol First Nations students, has developed a code of practice it wants all schools to sign up to before enrolling Indigenous students. It has applied to the Albanese government for $800,000 federal funding to develop the code, with schools to provide a further $400,000. The code would include an undertaking to train school staff to a high level of cultural proficiency, to commit to maintaining strong relationships with students family and community, and to meet safeguards for student health and wellbeing. Chief executive Greg Franks said the number of First Nations students in Australian boarding schools had risen to about 6000 before the pandemic hit, and schools needed guidance on how to support them. We recognise families have traditionally been disempowered, theyve had no voice and once theyve ticked a box on an Abstudy form saying, My money can go to that school, for many the relationship began and ended there, Franks said. Loading Schools talk about, are students ready? But the question is, are the schools ready? If theyre not able to provide services that meet the students needs and recognise their culture, then the school is not ready. The Age spoke with the wellbeing coordinator at one Victorian school, who recently resigned in frustration at the unsafe manner in which it deals with Indigenous students. The coordinator said a student who had displayed suicidal ideation was sent back to class a day after fashioning a school tie into a noose, and only given access to a doctor some days later. The students cousin, also a student, had recently died by suicide. The boy was warned not to speak in his own language in class and would have his mobile phone confiscated for disciplinary reasons, even though it was his only regular link to family interstate, and contact with family was known to improve his mental health, the coordinator said. Australian Boarding Schools Association chief executive Richard Stokes defended schools treatment of Indigenous students and said they had made immense strides in recent years in adapting their practices. Every one of our boarding schools has recognised the need to have a close relationship with the Indigenous community the kids come from, Stokes said. That wouldnt have happened 10 years ago. Stokes said communities had also become more appreciative of the opportunities an education away from home can provide, academically and in fields such as sport and drama. A spokesperson for Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said the funding request was being considered. It is incumbent on all schools to provide an environment that is safe, welcoming and culturally appropriate for First Nations children. Any night this week, as the sky darkens and the sun slips below the horizon in the west, what appears to be a large star will rise in the east. Its the giant gas planet Jupiter, as close as it has been to Earth in 59 years a treat for astronomers and amateur stargazers alike. This Aug 25, 2020 image captured by NASAs Hubble Space Telescope shows the planet Jupiter and one of its moons, Europa, at left. Credit:NASA / Supplied Theres not going to be any doubt, says Perry Vlahos, former president of the Astronomical Society of Victoria. Its the next brightest thing in the eastern sky after the moon. Its about as bright and as big as it can appear in our sky and telescopes. Family claims Perth hospital breached duty of care in death of young father Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later. Dismiss A group armed with significant weaponry that fatally shot a man in the chest at close range after he intervened in a confrontation at a Brisbane home remained on the run from police on Tuesday night. The group, armed with a 12-gauge shotgun and possibly a handgun, were assaulting a man outside a Cliveden Avenue home in Corinda before dawn on Tuesday when the 38-year-old victim, who had been sitting in a car across the road, intervened. Detectives said the Inala man approached the group, four men and a woman, and was shot at close range with the shotgun. Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said there had been significant conflict amongst the whole group, and detectives were questioning the assault victim, who had minor injuries. A refugee who spent more than seven years in immigration detention, including on Manus Island, has been told he will not be settled in Australia and has days to decide where he should go. Farhad Bandesh received a letter from the Department of Home Affairs last week telling him settlement in Australia is not an option and suggesting he could move to New Zealand instead. Farhad Bandesh with his self-portrait. Credit:Natalie Groningen Bandesh, who is on a bridging visa, said he was shocked when he received the letter, to which he must respond by Thursday. I am working and living my life here and cannot be yet again ripped apart from my new family, friends [and] community, Bandesh told The Age on Monday. SA corrections minister demands investigation into violent assault at Adelaide Remand Centre Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later. Dismiss A Perth father has drowned after rushing to help his two sons who were struggling in the water at a South West beach. The man, aged in his 50s, was at Rabbits Break at Yallingup Beach on Saturday afternoon with his family when the tragedy occurred. Its understood the man thought his children were struggling in the water when he swam out to assist them and then required rescuing. Bystanders, including a doctor, dragged the man to shore and began CPR but were unable to resuscitate him. That politicians can behave badly is not exactly news and nobody has been more critical of that behaviour than Adam Bandt. Loading After the release of the Jenkins review into the culture at Parliament House in November, which found one-in-three staff had experienced bullying, he described it in an email to his supporters as a toxic nest. The report, he said, had exposed the protection racket for what it was a dangerous and shameful stain on our nation and not good enough. We know we need to clean up our parliament. And we all want our leaders to do better, and to be better. While people are looking for leadership now is our moment to offer it. Readers so moved by his words were then encouraged to press a button marked DONATE NOW. Surely this anti-bullying crusader Bandt cant be the same man who ignored Atkinsons complaint for more than a year? Alas, so. He might have solicited money for the cause of cleaning up politics, but what he does (or fails to do) when he thinks nobody is watching is far more telling. Their leader wasnt the only one reluctant to take Thorpes to task. Greens MPs closed ranks with Senators David Shoebridge and Janet Rice dismissing questions about it during a press conference, with Rice saying Weve got Greens processes. And Thorpe wasnt Bandts only headache last week! Last Friday it emerged an official complaint has been lodged against WA Green Dorinda Cox by one of her former staffers. One of her many former staffers: it is alleged six employees have left her office in the 13 months shes been a senator, as a result of her disturbing behaviour. Loading Bandts office says it has been working with Cox on her workplace culture. He has been far slower to hold Thorpe to account. Having ignored Atkinsons complaint about Thorpe for more than a year, Bandt only responded after two days of media coverage. What makes this worse is Mejia-Canales had raised concerns about her conduct with party leaders at the time. Maybe Bandts just not great at staying on top of his correspondence. More plausibly, he isnt great at having difficult conversations with Thorpe. His office says his response to Atkinson confirmed he had taken the two actions she requested: ensuring there was no personal retaliation against her and that it was made clear to Thorpe that abusive behaviour is unacceptable. This is hard to square with the fact that both Bandt and Thorpe maintained last week her meeting with Atkinson simply involved a robust discussion. Greens senator Lidia Thorpe. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Bandt must know he cant keep walking on eggshells with Thorpe forever. The Greens cant afford to be seen as wreckers who in the name of purity end up undermining key elements of the Albanese government agenda such as climate change, integrity and the Voice. This is particularly so when its moderate supporters now have an alternative in the teals. Loading Having finally secured a decent chunk of lower house real estate, retaining those seats and adding to them will be the priority. Bandt knows that wont happen if he blocks key elements of Albaneses agenda. This was evident when he surrendered his key demand that the government veto all new coal and gas projects and agreed to support Labors emission target legislation. Alongside climate change, the Voice is central to Albaneses agenda. And the most damaging force shaping up against it on the Left may be Djab Wurrung, Gunnai Gunditjmara woman Lidia Thorpe. Thorpe may end up like Phil Cleary, the advocate for the Republic, who in the 1999 referendum on that issue campaigned against a yes vote because the proposed model didnt include direct election of a president. Thorpes main criticism of the Voice is that she considers a treaty with Indigenous Australians the priority. Shes also called the referendum a waste of money and said its pretty hard to say whether you can support something you know nothing about, criticisms shared no doubt by many members of the Liberal Party. Deradicalisation experts have backed the Albanese governments plan to rescue dozens of Australian relatives of former Islamic State fighters from Syria, even as the Coalition said it feared the repatriation effort would put Australian lives at risk. About 20 Australian women and more than 40 children have been living at the al-Hawl and al-Roj camps in Syrias north-east since the fall of the Islamic State caliphate in early 2019. Dozens of Australians, who are relatives of former Islamic State fighters, are stranded at al-Roj refugee camp in northern Syria. Credit:Save the Children The plan to begin repatriating the women and children to Australia has been confirmed by security sources, but not by the government. Sources familiar with the operation said most of the women and children were expected to be resettled in NSW as many of their family members are living in Sydney. Close to one in five properties in apartment-heavy neighbourhoods such as Ryde and Strathfield in Sydney and the Melbourne CBD and Stonnington are selling at a loss, new figures show. Nervous investors and first home buyers have been turning away from cookie-cutter high-rise towers and choosing boutique unit blocks where possible, mindful of the high-profile cracking Opal Tower and the desire for open space through the pandemic. In neighbourhoods such as Parramatta, some properties are selling at a loss. Credit:Ben Rushton A wave of new apartment supply in these areas in recent years is leaving some sellers with little choice but to accept less than what they paid. In the Ryde local government area, 21.2 per cent of properties sold in the June quarter traded at a loss, the CoreLogic Pain and Gain report shows, followed by the LGAs of Strathfield (19.6 per cent) and Parramatta (19.1 per cent). Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Together forever, the billboards proclaimed in the Red Square of Moscow. But even as Russian President Vladimir Putin signed treaties folding four Ukrainian territories into Russia on September 30, his soldiers were losing ground there and Ukrainian flags were still flying. The strange theatre of Russias annexation of roughly 15 per cent of Ukraine, some of which remains under Ukrainian control, has raised the stakes even higher in Putins grinding war. Western leaders have denounced the move as an illegal sham while the Kremlin buses in strikingly unenthusiastic Russian citizens to the Red Square to celebrate the peoples choice. For the first time since the days of the Cold War, officials on both sides are seriously war-gaming a nuclear escalation as more of Putins allies call for the use of less powerful or low-yield tactical nukes to drive out Ukrainian forces from lands that Russia vows it will now defend as its own. Meanwhile, Russia has been hit with more sanctions and Ukraine has applied for a fast-tracked NATO membership (and retaken another key city, this time in the east). So what does the annexation mean? And why does it mark a dangerous turning point in the war? President Vladimir Putin speaks at celebrations in Moscow marking the incorporation of four Ukrainian territories into Russia. Credit:AP What did Putin do? In early September, a lighting counter-offensive by Ukraine seized as much territory in days as Russia had taken in months, including the key northern city of Kharkiv. On the retreat, Russia hastily scrambled to enact a new plan: annexation. In the territory it still held across the eastern Donbas regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south, its forces held sham referendums. Soldiers rounded up locals to vote, often at gunpoint. And to no-ones surprise, Russia got the results it wanted: all four territories voted to become part of Russia. Advertisement Russia has celebrated the signing of new treaties with these territories in an elaborate ceremony but, to the rest of the world, the claims are illegal. Even Russias staunchest allies are unlikely to recognise them. Annexation means seizing another nations sovereign territory by force. Russia followed this same playbook when it annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. After the Maidan revolution unseated Ukraines then pro-Kremlin president, Putins little green men soldiers without insignia were sent across the border to sow chaos and seize territory. But although the move in 2014 drew widespread condemnation, that annexation came with much less bloodshed. Major sanctions were imposed by Western countries only after commercial plane MH17 was shot down during fighting in the east, which had also broken out in 2014. This month, in announcing this latest annexation in the east and south, Putin called on Ukraine to enter peace talks but insisted the seized territories were not up for discussion. I want the authorities in Kyiv and their real overlords in the West to hear me: The residents of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson are becoming our citizens, he said. Forever. Any attack on these regions will now be considered an attack on Russia, which will defend itself with all means at its disposal, he said, again raising the spectre of nuclear war. Still, even Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov couldnt say where Russia would draw its new borders with so much of the area under Ukrainian control (Russia occupies only about 60 per cent of Donetsk, for example). More land would have to be liberated, he said, and that has many analysts concerned that the scale of Russias attack may escalate again. The treaties will go before Russian parliament, the Duma, where Putins ruling United Russia party holds the majority and real opposition figures are blocked from running. In an attempted show of legitimacy, Russias Constitutional Court has already rubber-stamped the move, and Putin is expected to address the Duma ahead of his 70th birthday on October 7. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has joined world leaders in condemning the annexation as a dangerous escalation with no legal value. Advertisement (Left to right) On September 30, the Moscow-appointed heads of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia with Vladimir Putin and Denis Pushilin, leader of the Donetsk Peoples Republic and Leonid Pasechnik, leader of Luhansk Peoples Republic. Credit:AP Why did Russia annex the territories? Russia has been suffering humiliating defeats on the battlefield of late, its forces ground down by months of fighting. Even now that the Kremlin has made the unpopular move to call up a partial draft of Russian citizens to fight on the frontline (sparking a wave of protest and large exodus of Russians from the country), the Russian war campaign remains in trouble. Putin needs a win. Loading Analysts say the annexations mean he can draw focus at home away from mounting troop losses and onto a supposed existential battle between Russia and the West as he again tried to recast the war in his speech on September 30. (In the televised address, he branded the United States and NATO as enemies and Satanists seeking to tear down Russia.) More importantly, claiming the territories as Russian will bring them under Russias nuclear umbrella. Russia has the largest nuclear arsenal in the world, and Putin keeps stressing that he will not hesitate to defend Russian territory from attack. This is not a bluff, he has said. Western officials generally believe it is a bluff, likely an attempt to make Ukraine back off while Putins forces regroup, and to end the flow of Western weapons and aid into the country. Russia cannot win a fight with NATO directly and would risk losing what few allies it has left, such as China, and even poisoning its own troops if it used even small-scale nukes on the battlefield. But experts say just raising the spectre of nuclear war brings greater risk of miscalculation on all sides (although so far, countries such as the US have not responded in kind to Putin by raising their own nuclear threat levels). Advertisement While some high-profile Russians have publicly denounced the idea of breaking the nuclear taboo, others have begun calling for the use of tactical nukes, including Chechnyan leader Ramzan Kadyrov and the oligarch known as Putins chef, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who funds the private mercenary group Wagner and the Kremlins Internet Research Agency troll farm. Officials in Washington and elsewhere have begun war-gaming such scenarios, and relaying private warnings to Moscow to pull back as well as issuing public condemnations. Of course, the annexation will likely sink any small remaining chance for peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv. Ukraine will not concede the territories and the West appears unlikely to drop its support for the besieged nation, with many leaders already pledging more aid. Some analysts think it unlikely Putin himself will be satisfied with these territories, and may intend the move as a stall to regroup and wait out Ukraine during the freezing winter months before redoubling his efforts to take down the Zelensky government. Strategically, the areas claimed are important too. The eastern Donbas has been at the centre of a Russian land grab since 2014, before the full invasion, and could now be linked up with Crimea by the southern region of Kherson (a key hub of agricultural produce) and Zaporizhzhia (home to Europes largest nuclear power plant), giving Russia a wall of territory at the bottom of the country. So far though, the annexations are not drawing the same groundswell of support from the Russian people that seizing Crimea did in 2014. Putin is now sliding in the polls after his draft call-up and celebrations at the September 30 rally were lacklustre at best. Some in the crowd admitted to journalists that theyd been bussed in by authorities. What will happen in the annexed territories? Together, the territories span more than 90,000 square kilometres (the size of Hungary) and are still home to some 4 million people. With the announcement in Moscow, a wave of Ukrainians are now fleeing again fearing that those trapped in parts occupied by Russia could be conscripted themselves to fight their own countrymen. Russian occupiers have been seizing property, killing, torturing and raping Ukrainians and, in some cases, forcibly conscripting them or disappearing them to Russia. Experts warn that the annexations might herald a large-scale, co-ordinated draft. Advertisement As they wrap their prey in a swirling mass of tentacles, it is not immediately obvious that octopuses favour a particular limb. But, by watching them hunt, scientists have found that the creatures are either right or left tentacled. Scientists have found that octupuses are either right or left tentacled. Credit:Getty Images Researchers at the University of Minnesota filmed California two-spot octopuses and discovered that they always used the second tentacle from the middle of their body to launch an attack before bringing an adjacent tentacle into play. The predictable and exceedingly repeatable patterns of lunges could provide a blueprint for the design of underwater robots, the team suggested. Latest News Westpac taps JP Morgan for Tyro Payments buyout Other banks are also mulling a bid for the group What do buyers consider when purchasing property? Major bank reveals the top factors Bankwest has increased its digital offering by enabling PayTo in the Bankwest app. This addition will allow its customers to manage digital payments through the New Payments Platform Australia (NPPA) initiative. PayTo enables customers to manage one-off or recurring payment agreements within the security of the app, which provides the ability to view, authorise, pause, or cancel payments. The new feature focuses on providing customers with greater control over payments that come directly from Bankwest accounts, with a holistic view of qualifying bills, subscriptions and one-off payment agreements. Bankwest general manager everyday banking Philippa Costanzo (pictured above) said PayTo works by merchants establishing a payment agreement that could be sent directly to a customer, who could then authorise and manage that agreement through the app. Read more: Young West Aussies cling to homeownership dreams Bankwest The method provides an alternative to direct debit arrangements, as well as third-party payments such as salary disbursements, and could be used in eCommerce environments in place of credit and debit card payments, Costanzo said. PayTo could also reduce the costs and delays for businesses associated with failed payments as well as improve cash flow and reconciliation, with the payment agreements processed in near real-time and containing richer data. Bankwest intends on enabling PayTo in online banking in the coming months. Costanza said Bankwest was committed to meeting the changing needs and expectations of customers and the launch of the PayTo function was an example of that. Customers nationwide are seeking simple, friendly and easy access to their banking services through their mobile phone or tablet device and PayTo enables them to efficiently manage applicable payments via the Bankwest app, she said. We expect broad adoption of PayTo by businesses because of the benefits and efficiencies for them and their customers and were excited to have been able to so quickly bring this feature to Bankwest customers. Read more: Bankwest slashes trading hours for WA regional branches The bank is in the process of a digital transformation after announcing it would close its remaining 14 east coast branches and adjust the opening hours of 29 of its Western Australia regional branches on September 23. Bankwest said this was to address a continued shift in customer preferences toward digital banking options. The remaining 29 Western Australia regional branches will shift to trading only two to four days a week and on days when the branches are not open, Bankwest regional employees will continue to support customers via Bankwests app, online banking and Western Australian based national contact centre. Latest News Westpac taps JP Morgan for Tyro Payments buyout Other banks are also mulling a bid for the group What do buyers consider when purchasing property? Major bank reveals the top factors The Mortgage Choice Charity Foundation (MCCF) has chosen RizeUp Australia as its national charity partner for the 2023 financial year. RizeUp Australia is an organisation which provides practical support by responding to emergency needs and costs for families who are at the highest risk of lethality when fleeing from domestic and family violence situations. Domestic and family violence impacts one in four children in Australia and the Mortgage Choice broker network wants to help reduce that number. Anthony Waldron (pictured above), CEO financial services and Mortgage Choice REA Group, said he was proud to launch the partnership on behalf of the broker network. This helps to recognise the legacy of the Smartline Charity Fund as well as past charity work from Mortgage Choice, Waldron said. Donations are just the beginning as we have brokers ready to roll up their sleeves to make an impact with RizeUp. We want to get the conversation going and play a part in bringing this issue out of the shadows. Were reaching out to clients, lenders and to all our networks to raise our voices against domestic and family violence. Read more: CBA, UNSW on link between financial abuse and family violence The MCCF is funded through voluntary broker contributions and calculated on certain loans they submit, as well as REA Group contributions and other fundraising activities. Waldron said these funds would be shared between a national charity partner and a variety of state-based grass roots charities. The MCCF was established in July 2022 as a sub-fund of Good2Give Community Fund and the national partnership with RizeUp began in August this year, he said. The MCCF national committee selected RizeUp based on input from brokers across the country about the issues that matter to them and their communities. At the networks national conference in September, Mortgage Choice brokers overwhelmingly took a stand against domestic and family violence by raising $66,000 over three days. RizeUp Australia CEO Nicolle Edwards said the charity was truly thrilled to be celebrating the partnership. Read more: Finance leaders help raise over $9 million for charity We know there is much more to do in terms of education and advocacy around domestic and family violence and joining forces with the MCCF will enable RizeUp Australia to continue to provide positive outcomes for many of the most vulnerable families in our communities, Edwards said. It is our absolute pleasure being supported by the Mortgage Choice broker network who have committed to not just financial support, but also to being advocates against domestic violence in Australia. I am confident that together we will make a huge impact for families in need of support. Mortgage Choice Charity Foundation chair Kathryn Harrison said 100s of its brokers committed to donating a portion from loans they settled towards shifting the dial on domestic and family violence, along with other charitable causes. Our partnership will ensure RizeUp can help even more families in need, Harrison said. The Mortgage Choice franchise recently celebrated record financial year results by accelerating its financial services strategy along with achieving some pivotal milestones. Waldron said Mortgage Choices focus remained on being Australias number one retail broker business. We want to provide more choice and simplicity for consumers to find and finance property, Waldron said. The integration of Smartline and Mortgage Choice franchises under one brand and one system is well underway and we are on track to complete this process by Q3 this financial year. India will have 30 per cent of its two-wheeler industry turning electric by 2030 as new manufacturers lead the shift, said a report on Monday. will be 15 per cent electric and the three-wheeler segment 75 per cent electric by 2030, said the report by called 'India AutosElectric vehicles: Minutes to midnight'. We see FY22 as the year of inflection for the two-wheeler EV industry, with an accelerated EV adoption helped by incentives, wider availability, model launches, rise in crude prices and improved general awareness. We see 30 per cent of the 2W industry turning electric by 2030; the pace of incentive withdrawal presents an upside/downside risk, the report (India Autos - Electric vehicles: Minutes to midnight) said. New entrants are expected to drive growth in the two-wheeler market. The largest player, Okinawa Autotech, has a market share of 20 per cent in terms of volume. The top 10 companies in the segment account for 93 per cent volume. Maharashtra tops states in electric two-wheeler (e2W) sales. The top 11 states account for 84 per cent of the total e2W sales. The report projected 75 per cent of the three-wheeler industry turning electric by 2030, with the entry of market leader Bajaj Auto acting as catalyst for growth. YC Electric is the largest company in the segment now with 10 per cent market share. Top 10 firms account for less than 40 per cent of volume. Uttar Pradesh contributes to one-third of the total electric three-wheelers getting registered. The other major states are Delhi and Bihar. Electric are at a nascent stage, we see inflection after FY25 and EV penetration reaching 15 per cent by 2030, the report said. There will be more EPV by 2025 due to expanded charging infrastructure, government policies, vehicles becoming cheaper and model launches by original equipment manufacturers (OEM). The segment is dominated by Tata Motors, with 80 per cent volume market share. Maharashtra is the leading market for EPV, having 33 per cent market share. Top 10 states account for close to 90 per cent of volume. mobility will play a key role in achieving Indias commitment to lower its carbon emissions and reduce dependence on fossil energy. Over the last few years, CO2 emissions by new vehicles have not been reducing meaningfully. It has slowed for 2Ws and stalled for PVs. The major reasons sighted for this slowdown on CO2 reduction is coming from customers shifting to higher CO2 (carbon dioxide) emitting SUVs and higher cc two-wheelers. The report cited that start-ups are going to get a first-mover advantage among EVs. As has been witnessed over the last decade in different industries, start-ups lead the disruption in a segment and are then followed by legacy companies; the first-mover advantage gained by these start-ups likely changes the market dynamics in the industry in terms of market share, new streams of revenue. Global telecom gearmaker believes that India will see one of the fastest adoptions in the world. It also allayed concern raised by in the country about supply-chain constraints, especially due to the sudden closure of component factories in China, which can impact Indias aggressive plans for the roll-out. IT services provider EPAM Systems has sacked around 100 Indian employees, mostly bench people who were not tagged to any specific project, and has revoked offer letters to others who were about to join the NYSE-listed firm over the next few months, reported The Economic Times on Monday. At least 100 employees, across testing, .Net, DevOps, and Java domains in both firms EPAM Systems and EPAM Anywhere have been asked to resign, sources told ET. According to the ET report, the company's human resources told the employees, who have been asked to quit, that the firm over-hired, misjudging the demand forecast. The HR managers added that they can't fund any projects for onboarding in the near future. Communicated on Microsoft Teams and forced to resign, the employees have been given two options; one with three months' pay with immediate exit, another that they can serve two months' notice, where their resignation can be revoked if they land any project during the notice period, reported ET. The layoffs are being done in a staggered manner over the last few weeks, mostly from EPAM Anywhere, and a few from EPAM Systems, two people aware of the development told ET. Candidates from more than over 20 countries under EPAM Anywhere are offered IT jobs that are remote by design. After joining, the candidate can work from anywhere in the country, which is the employee's permanent residence. According to EPAM Systems 2021 annual report, it had 4,349 professionals in India, the largest after Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. Canada in context (Part Six) By Mark Wegierski web posted October 3, 2022 Political, constitutional, juridical, and socio-cultural aspects of the origins and development of the Canadian State In the January 2006 federal election, Stephen Harpers Conservatives were able to win a minority government. With adroit and deft maneuvering, Harper was able to stay in power for over two years. Finally, he requested the Governor-General to call an election for October 2008. Harper won a strengthened minority government, but a majority as yet eluded him. In November 2008, the threat of a coalition of the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc Quebecois emerged. By deft political maneuvering, Harper was able to stave off defeat. It also helped him that the idea of the coalition government was extremely unpopular among the Canadian populace at large. The Conservatives remained in power until the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc Quebecois voted down the government in 2011, thus necessitating an election call for May 2, 2011. In the May 2, 2011, federal election, the Conservatives won a strong majority, with 166 out of 308 seats. The incredible surge of the NDP gave that party 103 seats. The Liberals were reduced to 34 seats probably their lowest total ever in the federal House of Commons. The Bloc Quebecois was amazingly reduced to four seats. 59 of the 75 seats available from Quebec were won by the NDP. The leader of the Green Party also won the riding she was contesting making her the first elected member of the Green Party in the federal Parliament. So, Stephen Harper had taken a long road to win the first putatively conservative majority since the 1988 federal election. It was hoped that certain important lessons had been learned from the Mulroney years. Ironically, Mulroneys huge Progressive Conservative majorities were a defeat-in-victory for small-c conservatives what could be called a false dawn. Harper, unfortunately, remained primarily pragmatic. The Left ferociously opposed him, no matter what he did, so he should have clearly tried to do some meaningful things to attempt to govern in an activist, transformational way. It was high time to try to at least temper some of the various enormous excesses of the so-called Trudeaupia to try to initiate a process of recovery from the Trudeau revolution. Harper largely failed to govern strategically and found that his governments initiatives were sand-bagged by ferocious media and infrastructural opposition which was something akin to that which happened to Mulroneys huge majorities. Ironically, Harper was, to some extent, a visceral conservative in contrast to Mulroney. As the restoration of the traditional names of the armed services (Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Canadian Army) indicates, Harper was sometimes willing to undertake bold initiatives that suggested a desire for a true recovery of Canadian identity and history. But it wasnt enough. As of the October 2015 election, the Liberals under Justin Trudeau (Pierres son), swept into power, mostly undoing whatever fragmentary conservative initiatives Harper might have undertaken. Justin Trudeaus Liberals were re-elected in 2019 and 2021, albeit with a minority. However, they enjoyed the frequent support of the NDP in the House of Commons, which was cemented in 2022 when the NDP agreed to back the Liberals until 2025, in exchange for certain legislation being brought forward, such as pharmacare and dentalcare. On September 10, 2022, the young, dynamic Pierre Poilievre won the leadership of the Conservative Party in decisive fashion. His candidacy and victory have clearly energized the Conservative Party. Nevertheless, despite his rhetorical sharpness, Poilievre faces an uphill battle to win a Canadian federal election. Most of the Canadian media is ferociously opposed to him, and will work assiduously to undermine his endeavors. Certainly, Canada has been marked by massive social transformation and upheaval since the 1960s, and it is highly likely that these trends will continue. For example, Canada was the third country in the world (after Belgium and the Netherlands) to recognize same-sex marriage. At the same time, it has embraced multiculturalism, affirmative-action (called employment equity in Canada), and so-called diversity with a great intensity. Trying to somehow temper the decades of Pierre Elliott Trudeaus activist, transformational politics will be very difficult for any successors to Harper. Nevertheless, the existence and continuation of a more meaningful Canadian polity might well depend on those successors ability to challenge at least some aspects of the Trudeaupia that has increasingly engulfed Canada. Authors note: Partially based on an English-language text that appeared in Polish translation under the title Kanada eksperyment wielokulturowosci. (Canada: an experiment in multiculturalism) trans. Olaf Swolkien. Miedzynarodowy Przeglad Polityczny (International Political Review) (Warsaw, Poland: Fundacja Srodkowoeuropejska The Foundation for Central European) no 5 (no 10) (December 2004-January 2005), pp. 221-231. Mark Wegierski is a Toronto-based, Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home The biggest M&A (merger & acquisition) deal in the Indian fintech space has been called off. Naspers-owned Prosus has terminated the $4.7-billion deal to acquire Indias leading payments aggregator BillDesk. The deal between PayU, the India business of Prosus, and BillDesk was announced on August 31, 2021, and got approval from the (CCI) on September 5, 2022. However, approval from the Reserve Bank of India was awaited. The process was to take at least 45 days. On the termination of the agreement, Prosus in a statement said: Certain conditions were not fulfilled by September 30, 2022, and the agreement has terminated automatically in accordance with its terms and, accordingly, the proposed transaction will not be implemented. This is perhaps the first time that such a large deal, which had organisations signing binding agreements, has been cancelled, that too after getting the anti-competition authoritys approval. It is shocking. We heard that the India teams of both the were also told in the morning, said a source in the know. An email to Prosus on what conditions were not fulfilled, along with other questions, said: there is very little I can say beyond what is in the statement today. For your background, the decision by the Board is final and the deal is not being reworked. Prosus remains committed to the Indian market and is growing its existing businesses within the region, said the company in its statement. Industry sources are blaming the global meltdown and the changing regulatory landscape for the termination of Indias start-up ecosystems second-largest M&A transaction. Walmarts acquisition of Flipkart in a $16-billion deal has been the largest so far. Tech stocks across the globe have seen a huge fall and start-ups have been revalued. For instance, buy-now-pay-later Swedish player Klarna, which was valued at $45.6 billion as it raised $639 million from SoftBanks Vision Fund 2 in 2021, is now valued at $6.5 billion, according to international media reports. In the case of Prosus, the rethink might have started sometime early this year as the funding winter set in and it saw one of its largest investments in Chinas Tencent getting impacted. Naspers has a significant stake in Tencent, which has had its own issue with the regulatory environment in China, said a source in the know. In September, Naspers announced it was paring its stake in Tencent. The company moved shares worth $7.6 billion for market trading on Hong Kongs clearing and settlement system. Promoters of BillDesk, despite repeated attempts, could not be reached for comments. That is another reason for Prosus to rethink the issue. The Indian payments segment is still evolving. If the CCI nod takes a year, plus the payments ecosystem is now getting built, the uncertainty is too much, said an investor banking official. Prosus has been a long-term investor and operator in India, putting in close to $6 billion in Indian technology since 2005. Had the BillDesk acquisition gone through, its investment in the country would have been above $10 billion. Some of its other investments are in Meesho, Byjus, DeHaat, Mensa Brands, and Good Glamm Group. At the time of the acquisition announcement Anirban Mukherjee, India head, had told Business Standard the synergies of both the would lead to more products being launched. Ganapathy Subramaniam said that some IT companies work on a model where they are ok with freelancers but companies like T cannot let such an ... Vedanta founder Anil Agarwal was honoured with the Global Indian Award worth $50,000 by the Canada-India Foundation at its 15th annual gala here at the weekend. Agarwal donated the award money to a Canadian health charity working for the welfare of native Indians. Accepting the award at a star-studded gala event that included Ontario Premier Doug Ford, ministers and Indian consul general Apoorva Srivastava, the mining tycoon lauded the achievements of the 1.6 million-strong Indo-Canadian community in this country. "I have gone all over the world, but I have not seen the kind of bonding in the Indian diaspora anywhere that I see in . Take your businesses to the skies and make proud. You live in the best country in the world," Agarwal said. He said India and have many similarities and they complement each other in many fields. "Together, the two countries can do phenomenal work." The Vedanta founder said India has been a poor country. "But the time has reversed. The $3-trillion economy is going to be a $30 trillion economy in the coming years. The middle class that is 20 per cent today is going to be 80 per cent in the next six-seven years. We are going to build 150 big cities in India. Indians may be 20 years behind Canada in terms of lifestyle, but their aspirations are so high that with a population of 1.4 billion you can just imagine the (sheer amount of) demand." Ontario Premier Doug Ford praised the Indian tycoon for this charity. "I cannot think of any more deserving person (for the award) than Anil Agarwal whose generosity has improved the lives of so many people. You are a role model and an inspiration, Anil," the Ontario Premier said. Welcoming Agarwal to the gala event, Canada India Foundation chairman Satish Thakkar said, "Mr Agarwal's life story is one that should inspire every youngster growing up, to dream big and persevere to fulfill the dream. As a person who has pledged to give 75 percent of his wealth to charity, Mr. Agarwal is also a philanthropic role model for all. On behalf of CIF and all present, I extend a very very very warm welcome to Mr Agarwal." Ratan Tata, Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Deepak Chopra among the past recipients of the Global Indian Award started by this premier Indo-Canadian organization in 2007. --IANS shb/ (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police busted Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) backed drone-based Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) terror module and apprehended two of its operatives from Chamkaur Sahib area, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav on Sunday. According to Police, the terror module is being operated by Canada-based terrorist/gangster Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dala, who is a close associate of KTF's Canada-based chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Those arrested have been identified as Veeja Singh alias Gagan alias Gaggu, a resident of Chand Nava village in Moga and Ranjodh Singh alias Jyoti, a resident of Ganji Gulab Singh Wala village in Moga. The Police also recovered two illegal weapons including a 0.22 bore revolver and 0.32 bore pistol along with 21 live cartridges from their possession. The development came four days after Police had recovered an AK-47 assault rifle along with two magazines and 60 live cartridges from a pinpointed location at the paddy fields of village Arifke in Ferozepur. Police investigations revealed that the consignment was dropped using a drone on the direction of terrorist/gangster Arsh Dala and was intended to be retrieved by Veeja Singh and Ranjodh Singh from Arifke village. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said that after the recovery of the weapons from Ferozepur, an intelligence-led operation was launched across the state to nab the accused persons. Acting on inputs, Rupnagar Police has managed to arrest both the accused persons from Chamkaur Sahib area during the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday. DGP Yadav said that during preliminary investigations, arrested persons confessed that they had gone to Arifke village to retrieve this consignment on directions of terrorist/gangster Arsh Dala but could not find it, and later, it was recovered by the Ferozepur Police on the information of a field owner. "Both accused have also confessed to having received few drone-based weapon consignments to further deliver them at specific locations as directed by Canada-based Terrorist/Gangster Arsh Dala, which was to be used further for major target killings to disturb communal harmony of the state," said the DGP. An FIR has been registered under section 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 25 of the Arms Act at Chamkaur Sahib police station. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rupnagar, Sandeep Garg said that further investigations are underway and more arrests are expected soon. According to Police, Canada-based Arsh Dala, a native of Dala village in Moga, is a notorious gangster turned terrorist involved in various criminal activities in Punjab and abroad, and is most wanted by the . His involvement had also emerged in various targeted killings that took place in the border state of Punjab, besides, in cases of supplying militant hardware including RDX, IEDs, AK-47 and other arms and ammunition to modules in the state after getting them imported from Pakistan, said police. DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the process is on to extradite Arsh Dala from Canada and soon, he will be brought to India. Notably, the Red Corner Notice against Arsh Dala has already been issued in May 2022. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) City Police on Sunday arrested three people including Abdul Zahed who was involved in several terror-related cases in for allegedly being involved in clandestine activities and conspiring to hurl grenades on public gatherings. As per the police, the intelligence units received specific information that Abdul Zahed along with his associates has received a consignment of four hand grenades and was going to carry out sensational terror attacks in Hyderabad, Telangana. The intelligence team acted swiftly and apprehended three persons from Malakpet today. The three arrested accused have been identified as Abdul Zahed, Mohammad Sameeuddin and Maaz Hasan Farooq, all three residents of . As per the police, during the preliminary investigation, it was found out that Abdul Zahed was previously involved in several terror-related cases in Hyderabad including a suicide attack on the Hyderabad City Police Commissioner's task force office, Begumpet in 2005. He was also in regular touch with Pakistani ISI-LeT handlers. Other than them, there are three absconding accused: Farhatullah Ghori alias FG, Siddique Bin Osman alias Rafique alias Abu Hamzala and Abdul Majeed alias Chotu. They are wanted in several terror cases and are working under the aegis of ISI being settled in Pakistan, the police said. In the past, they had recruited local youth and radicalised them to execute terror attacks such as a blast near Saibaba Temple in Dilsukhnagar in 2002, a bus blast at Ghatkopar, Mumbai suicide attack on the Task Force office in Begumpet in 2005. They had also attempted to cause blasts near Ganesh Temple, Secunderabad in 2004. Abdul Zahed in his confession has revealed that Farhatulla Ghori, Abu Hamzala and Majeed have revived their contacts with him. They also motivated and financed Zahed to recruit and carry out terror attacks in Hyderabad again. At the behest of Pakistan-based handlers, Zahed recruited Samiuddin and Maaz Hasan. During the search, four hand grenades were recovered from their possession which Zahed received from his Pak-based handlers. Five mobile phones, one motorcycle and cash worth more than Rs five lakh were also recovered by the police. He was planning to hurl these hand grenades targeting public gatherings through his group members, thereby causing terror and communal tension in the city, the police 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 Sunday said the positions secured by the erstwhile civic bodies of Delhi in the latest cleanliness survey have once again proved the BJP's "incompetence" and demanded that the municipal polls be held at the earliest in the capital. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) shot back, saying it categorically dismisses the allegation that the corporations' rankings have dropped in Swachh Survekshan 2022 vis-a-vis the previous year. The AAP's reaction came a day after the annual cleanliness survey conducted by the Centre placed the erstwhile North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) in the bottom 10 among 45 cities in the country. In Swachh Survekshan 2022, the NDMC was ranked 37th, the EDMC 34th and the SDMC 28th. AAP's election in-charge Durgesh Pathak said Delhi's rank in Swachh Survekshan 2022 is a "matter of shame", adding that it has once again proved the "incompetence of the BJP, which has been ruling the for 15 years". "The has brought shame to Delhi yet again. The BJP-ruled has been adjudged as the worst of the lot in the swachhta survey this year," he said. The MCD, in a statement, pointed out that the erstwhile SDMC has bagged the 28th rank, which is three ranks better than its position last year, the EDMC has got the 34th rank, which is an improvement of six ranks, and the NDMC has got the 37th rank, which is a substantive improvement of eight ranks than its last year's performance in the category of cities with a population of more than 10 lakh. In the previous edition of the survey, the NDMC was ranked 45th, the EDMC 40th and the SDMC 31st. "Thus, to say that the MCD's ranks have only fallen in the last five-six years is not only a falsehood but also discredits the efforts put in by individuals, RWAs/MTAs and civil society to make Delhi clean," the civic body said. In the last few years, "no efforts have been missed in crippling the civic corporations" of the city, it alleged, adding that funds under various heads were not provided regularly. Despite these hardships, all the erstwhile corporations have "improved their previous year's rankings", the MCD said. "We are pleased to see the civic bodies climbing up the ladder. Various initiatives taken by the three corporations until they merged into one MCD, particularly by the SDMC, have paid off. Next year, we would like to see ourselves among the top contenders," a senior civic official had said on Saturday after the results of the survey were announced. All three erstwhile municipal corporations were ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) till their unification as the MCD in May. Pathak, the MLA from Rajinder Nagar, alleged that the MCD, under the saffron party, has made the capital a centre of garbage and dirt. "Today, there is a garbage problem all across Delhi and people want to get rid of it. We demand that the MCD polls are held at the earliest," he said, asserting that the Arvind Kejriwal-led party will record a landslide victory in the election and transform the MCD. If voted to power, the AAP will make Delhi the cleanest city, Pathak added. Polls to reconstitute a new civic body are yet to be announced by the BJP-led Centre. However, hoping that the election will be held by the year-end, the AAP's Delhi unit has intensified its preparations. With an eye on the MCD polls, the AAP launched a month-long campaign recently to corner the on various civic issues, primarily cleanliness. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Home Minister landed in Jammu on Monday on a 3-day visit to . He is accompanied by Union Minister and senior officers of the MHA. Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Arun Mehta and other senior civil and police officers received the home minister at the technical area of Jammu airport. Senior local BJP leaders, Ravinder Raina, Nirmal Singh and others were also present. Shah is staying at the Raj Bhavan for the night. Officials said he will pay obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine on Tuesday morning and from there he will fly to Rajouri district of Jammu division, where he is scheduled to address a public rally. BJP sources said the home minister is likely to announce reservations for the Pahari community of J&K as STs. Same sources said Shah could also announce regularisation of daily wagers in the UT, a long pending demand by hundreds of locals working since many years in various government departments. After his Rajouri public rally, Shah will fly to the Valley where he is scheduled to address another public rally in Baramulla district. Shah will also chair a security review meeting which will be attended by the Lt Governor, senior officers of local police, and central armed police forces (CAPFs) and officers of intelligence agencies of the UT and the centre. He will also lay foundation of many developmental works during his stay in J&K including a convention complex in Jammu city. The Lt Governor is hosting a dinner for the home minister on Tuesday evening. Shah will fly back to Delhi on October 5. --IANS sq/vd (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Court on Monday extended Vijay Nair, communication strategist of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to (CBI) remand till October 6. He was recently arrested for his alleged role in the irregularities pertaining to the excise policy of the Government. Nair was produced before the court, by CBI at the end of his remand granted earlier. Special Judge Raghubir Singh on Monday while deciding to extend the custodial remand period till October 6, 2022, said, "the allegations as appearing in the FIR are serious and a detailed investigation is required for the purpose of arriving at a logical conclusion in the due course. It would be in the interest of justice to allow further Police Custody of accused Vijay Nair up till the 6th of this month on which date, he shall be produced before the Court concerned during the Court hours." The Court noted that the FIR reflects allegations of commission of a number of irregularities in the framing and implementing of the Excise Policy of NCT of for the year 2021-2022 and various known and unknown persons have been shown instrumental therein at various stages allegedly performing various roles and undue favours to the licensees for obtaining illegal pecuniary benefits. Senior Advocate Ramesh Gupta alongwith Advocate Mohd Irshad contended on behalf of the accused that the only plausible ground being pleaded/argued on behalf of the prosecution is that the accused did not cooperate during the course of the investigation and that there was no need for further extension of police custody as he has already undergone the same for 05 days. Recently the special court of MK Nagpal had also sent Sameer Mahendru to ED remand till October 6, 2022. Mahendru, Managing Director of Delhi's Jor Bagh-based liquor distributor Indospirit Group, was arrested by the ED officials last week. Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also filed ECIR while initiating a money laundering probe in connection with the CBI FIR relating to the framing and execution of the Delhi Government's excise policy in which Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is the accused. The ED arrested Sameer Mahendru a day after the (CBI) on Tuesday (Last week) arrested Vijay Nair, former chief executive officer of Mumbai-based Only Much Louder, in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case. Among the accused public servants are Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the then Excise Commissioner Arva Gopi Krishna, Deputy Commissioner Anand Tiwari and Assistant Commissioner Pankaj Bhatnagar. Other accused are Manoj Rai, a former employee of Pernod Ricard; Amandeep Dhal, director of Brindco Sales; director of Buddy Retail Amit Arora, and Dinesh Arora; authorised signatories of Mahadev Liquors Sunny Marwah, Arun Ramchandra Pillai and Arjun Pandey. The ED and the CBI have alleged that irregularities were committed while modifying the Excise Policy, undue favours were extended to licence holders, the licence fee was waived or reduced and the L-1 licence was extended without the competent authority's approval. The beneficiaries diverted "illegal" gains to the accused officials and made false entries in their books of account to evade detection. An alleged, the Excise Department had decided to refund the Earnest Money Deposit of about Rs 30 crore to a successful tenderer against the set rules. Even though there was no enabling provision, a waiver on tendered licence fee was allowed from December 28, 2021, to January 27, 2022, due to COVID-19. This allegedly caused a loss of Rs 144.36 crore to the exchequer, said the FIR, which has been instituted on a reference from the Union Home Ministry following a recommendation from Delhi Lieutenant-Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena. (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 Police on Monday said it received a call about a bomb scare on board an Iran-China from the Air Traffic Control but was soon informed that it was not landing in Delhi, officials said. Delhi Fire Services was also informed about the and two fire tenders were put on standby at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. "We got a call from the ATC informing us about a bomb scare on the Tehran-China . But as we were making arrangements, we were informed by the ATC that the flight was not landing in Delhi," a senior police officer said. Delhi Fire Services said the fire control room received a call regarding the bomb scare around 9.25 am. "As per our standing operating procedure, two fire tenders along with senior officers were on standby," Deputy Chief Fire Officer Sanjay Tomar told PTI. "All the nearby fire stations were also informed to stay alert in case extra tenders would be required. But the flight did not land in Delhi and we got an all-clear message at 10.05 am from the airport security," he said. The scrambled its fighter aircraft following the bomb scare on board the civilian plane bearing Iranian registration. "IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled, which followed the aircraft at a safe distance. The aircraft was offered the option to land at Jaipur and then, at Chandigarh. However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports. "After a while, intimation was received from Tehran to disregard the bomb scare, following which, the aircraft continued on its journey towards its final destination," the IAF said. According to ATC sources, the incident happened on the Mahan Air flight W581 that was flying from Tehran to Guangzhou. (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 has initiated an into import of industrial laser machines used for cutting, marking and wielding, from China following a complaint by a domestic player. The duty is aimed at protecting the domestic industry from cheap imports. The commerce ministry's investigation arm Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) is probing the alleged dumping of the machine originating in or exported from China. Sahajanand Laser Technology has filed an application to initiate the anti-dumping investigation. The applicant has alleged that dumping of the machines is impacting domestic industries. "On the basis of the duly substantiated application by and on behalf of the domestic industry, and having satisfied itself, on the basis of the prima facie evidence submitted by the domestic industry, substantiating dumping of the product...the authority hereby initiates an investigation," the DGTR has said in a notification. If it is established that the dumping has caused material injury to domestic players, the DGTR would recommend the imposition of anti-dumping duty on these imports. The finance ministry takes the final decision to impose duties. Anti-dumping probes are conducted by countries to determine whether domestic industries have been hurt because of a surge in cheap imports. As a counter measure, they impose these duties under the multilateral regime of the Geneva-based World Trade Organization (WTO). The duty is aimed at ensuring fair trading practices and creating a level-playing field for domestic producers vis-a-vis foreign producers and exporters. India has already imposed anti-dumping duty on several products to tackle cheap imports from various countries, including China. (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.) Biden's open border invasion The real numbers? By Mark Alexander web posted October 3, 2022 Two weeks ago, after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called Joe Biden's border bluff and flew 48 illegal immigrants to Martha's Vineyard, that leftist playground for the rich and famous where Barack Obama maintains his summer mansion, the Democrat Party's glitterati and Leftmedia talkingheads burst into flames of outrage and contempt. As Sen. Mitch McConnell noted, "These well-to-do blue enclaves are finally witnessing the smallest fraction of the challenges that open borders have forced on working-class communities all across our country." It took less than 24 hours for MVI officials to declare a "humanitarian crisis," and a day later, residents booted the new arrivals off their island despite the fact they could certainly have accommodated them in accordance with Massachusetts' high-minded "sanctuary status" for illegal immigrants. For his part, Biden protested: "Republicans are playing politics with human beings, using them as props. What they're doing is simply wrong. It's un-American. It's reckless." Actually, Biden is a notorious "human trafficker," and it is his Democrats' intentional and deceitful open-border policy that is "un-American" and "reckless." What a cesspool of consummate hypocrites. As I noted at the time, in 2021 alone, Biden authorized almost 1,000 large charter "ghost flights" to many U.S. locations, including planes loaded with children most under cover of darkness. If 48 illegal immigrants flying onto the charmed and idyllic Martha's Vineyard Island constitutes a "humanitarian crisis," consider the impact of Biden flying 148 THOUSAND immigrants into undisclosed locations around the nation in the middle of the night. Notably, he sent 70 flights to Florida. Predictably, Gov. DeSantis has been accused of illegally luring illegal immigrants onto the MVI flights with promises of housing and jobs, accusations he has completely debunked. And he is now being sued by immigration activists. Never underestimate the Demos' ability to collude with the Leftmedia to change the subject. DeSantis responded to all the leftist noise: "When Biden is flying these people all over the fruited plain in the middle of the night, I didn't hear a peep out of those people. ... The state of Florida offered transport to sanctuary jurisdictions because it's our view that the border should be secured, and we want to have Biden reinstitute policies like 'Remain in Mexico' and making sure that people aren't overwhelming. ... What's not humane is what Biden is doing. He's given a false promise, the border's open, luring people to come here for political purposes, and then basically cutting these people loose and leaving them high and dry." Gov. DeSantis has promised more flights! So, let's take a look at the law-breaking illegal immigrants Biden has lured across our increasingly deadly but "secure" border, as Border Czar Kamala Harris absurdly called it. The actual numbers are staggering. On Biden's watch, more than 3.7 million illegal border crossers have surrendered to or been captured by DHS since Biden took office. About 1.8 million have been expelled based on Title 42 pandemic restrictions still in place, though Biden just declared the pandemic is over, so maybe those expulsions are about to come to an abrupt halt. The other 1.8 million illegal immigrants were logged by DHS and then released, most swamping the towns and resources of border states and resulting in a real and sometimes deadly humanitarian crisis. New illegal immigrant records were set in August, but and it is a BIG "but" there are many more who cross undetected. DHS officially estimates there were more than 900,000 "known gotaways," those who entered but were not captured, counted, and released. And that estimate is likely to be substantially under the actual number of "gotaways." The total number of illegal immigrants Biden has invited across our border in the first 20 months he was in office is closer to 3.3 million. That surge includes criminals who are bringing record amounts of deadly fentanyl into the country, resulting in record deaths of American citizens. Notably, it also includes increasing numbers of terrorists and other violent offenders. Consider that 3.3 million number again you don't have to be a math scholar to do a quick percentage calculation. There are about 330 million people in the United States, and 3.3 million is 1% of that population. In other words, the number of illegal aliens Biden has allowed into our nation since he has been in office is equivalent to 1% of our total population. If that stat does not shock you, then you must live in some tony gated community like Martha's Vineyard. What might also shock you is that Democrats were opposed to illegal immigration before they realized their political future was in jeopardy and decided to replenish their ranks by throwing open our southern border. For the record, remember when Biden was for border security before he wasn't? As incoming chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 2006, Biden declared we must secure our border, including more border fences: "People are driving across that border with tons, tons hear me tons of everything from byproducts for methamphetamine to cocaine to heroin. And it's all coming up through corrupt Mexico." Then-Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) and many Democrats voted to authorize $1.4 billion for 700 miles of border fencing. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) wanted walls along the entire Mexican border. In 2007, Biden declared some "truisms," the first being, "It makes sense that no great nation can be in a position where they can't control their borders." Biden added: "The second truism is that this nation is such that people in the country should have the first opportunity to be able to have jobs that pay well and have jobs that are decent and that after that, the second crack goes to what we may need from other parts of the world or any other input." Remember when Biden criticized George W. Bush for "putting a higher value on tax cuts for the wealthy than he did on protecting the border"? He complained about "our conservative business friends" who plan to bring in workers on "work permits that will take away jobs of Americans," and decried "the allowance of a significant increase several hundred thousand people a year to take regular jobs, particularly in the construction industry." Got that? "Several hundred thousand people a year" versus the 3.3 million Biden has invited in. In 2013, every Senate Democrat voted to authorize $7.5 billion for additional border walls proposed by the Obama/Biden regime. Remember when Obama insisted: "We are a nation of laws. Undocumented workers broke our immigration laws, and I believe that they must be held accountable. When I took office, I committed to fixing this broken immigration system and began to do what I could to secure our borders. Today our immigration system is broken and everybody knows it. ... We will [add] additional [border] resources for our law enforcement personnel, so that they can stem the tide of illegal crossing and to speed the return of those who do cross over. If you are a criminal, you will be deported. ... We expect people who live in this country to play by the rules." Video: Obama's Immigration Lies Remember when Chuck Schumer declared: "People who enter the U.S. without our permission are illegal aliens, and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... When we use phrases like 'undocumented workers,' we convey to the American people that their government is not serious about combating illegal immigration. ... I think it is illegal and wrong." Video: Democrats then and now Remember when Hillary Clinton had this to say about illegal immigrant children: "The numbers are increasing dramatically. ... We need to do more to provide border security this side of Mexico. ... We have to send a clear message that just because your child gets across the border, that doesn't mean the child gets to stay. We don't want to send a message that is contrary to our laws." And both Hillary and Bill Clinton were once staunch advocates for a border wall. Video: Bill Clinton on "illegal aliens" But despite Biden's "truisms," amid record deaths from the far more deadly fentanyl flooding across our border now, Biden insists, "Building a wall will do little to deter criminals and cartels seeking to exploit our borders." Our border has never been more unsecure than now, and American citizens are paying a heavy price, except, of course, for those on Martha's Vineyard. Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. Marking a major stepping stone to increasing the militarys combat power, especially on the high-altitude Himalayan battlefield, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally inducted a new, powerfully armed, high-altitude-capable helicopter into (IAF) service on Monday. Designed and developed ground-up by Limited (HAL), the defence minister gave the new chopper so far eponymously referred to as the (LCH) the name of Prachanda. Inducted into the IAFs newly raised 143 Helicopter Unit, a statement issued by the (MoD) called it a testimony to Indias growing prowess in indigenous design, development and manufacturing and a significant milestone towards atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence. In March, the Union Cabinet approved the procurement of 15 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) for Rs 3,887 crore, or about Rs 260 crore each. The Cabinet Committee on Security also approved the creation of infrastructure worth Rs 377 crore. Limited Series Production (LSP) is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured, state-of-the-art modern combat helicopter containing approximately 45 per cent indigenous content by value, which will progressively increase to more than 55 per cent for the SP (series production) version, the MoD had announced. chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari said the induction of the LCH adds greatly to the IAFs combat potential, with its versatility and offensive potential at par or better than most attack helicopters operating globally. Prachanda, which follows HALs Dhruv advanced light helicopter into service, is the defence public service undertakings indigenous Multi-Role Combat Helicopter designed and built for high-altitude operations. That makes the LCH an ideal platform for providing infantry soldiers fire support in 15,000-16,000 feet high contested areas such as Depsang, Galwan, and the heights north and south of Pangong Tso where Indian soldiers were facing off against Chinese intruders. Infantrymen at those oxygen-deprived altitudes cannot carry heavy weaponry for long distances, but a high-altitude attack helicopter would provide them with fire support, using its on-board, 20-millimetre turret gun, 70-millimetre rockets, and air-to-air missiles. It can also carry an anti-tank guided missile and the is close to choosing one. For delivering firepower accurately onto the enemy, the LCH is integrated with cutting-edge target-sighting systems, including an electro-optic pod and a helmet mounted display that allows a pilot to aim at a target just by looking at it. The LCHs pilots are protected by armoured panels, self-sealing fuel tanks, a bulletproof windshield, damage-tolerant rotor blades, and a main gearbox that can run for 30 minutes even after a bullet hits it and drains out the oil. The LCH also has an electronic warfare system that detects incoming missiles and confuses them by scattering flares and chaff. Light Combat Helicopters are already in the MoDs list of defence products that are embargoed for import. With its versatile features built in for combat missions, LCH has export capability, said the MoD. The military has already projected to HAL an eventual requirement of 65 Prachandas for the and 97 for the army. For such a small helicopter, the LCH is a formidable fighting machine. Its two pilots, who are seated one behind the other in a slim tandem cockpit, can choose from a menu of weapons that they fire using a helmet pointing system that lets a pilot aim at a target by looking at it. HALs former chief, R Madhavan, told Business Standard that the LCH is the lightest attack helicopter in the world, designed specifically to meet the Indian Armys requirements. The 5.8-tonne, twin-pilot helicopter can operate at altitudes of 20,000 feet, higher than any other attack helicopter in the world. Having demonstrated its ability to operate from 15,000-feet high helipads above the Siachen Glacier, the LCH is an ideal weapons platform for supporting the army in areas like Galwan and Daulat Beg Oldi in Eastern Ladakh, where our soldiers are confronting Chinese intruders. Aiming high Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan will kickstart his two-day visit to on Monday to reinforce the shared commitment between both countries. The Union Minister will be in from October 3-4, as per a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs. This will be his second visit to and a part of the periodic exchange of high-level visits to reinforce the shared commitment to "ever-growing" relationship between both countries. During the visit, Muraleedharan will meet Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman and other senior dignitaries and engage in discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will participate in a Community Reception and interact with a wide cross-section of the Indian community in Oman, particularly those in health, education, business, and social service sectors, as per the statement. There has been sustained and frequent exchange of high-level visits between both countries. In 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited Oman, while External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Oman in 2019. MoS himself visited Oman in December 2020. In recent months, Foreign Minister of Oman Sayyid Badr al-Busaidi visited India in March 2022, and Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion visited India in May 2022. India and Oman share warm and friendly relations underpinned by historical and cultural linkages and strong people-to-people ties. As per the MEA statement, the visit will provide an opportunity to comprehensively review the state of bilateral relations between India and Oman and to chart pathways to further deepen and strengthen it. India and Oman have continued close cooperation during the COVID-19 pandemic and maintained high-level contacts. India is among Oman's top trading partners and bilateral trade for the current financial year (FY 2021-2022) so far is almost USD 7.5 billion. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A revenue department report has revealed that 56,918 marriages were registered out of the 62,811 applications that were submitted in the last three years (from October 1, 2019 to August 31, 2022), reported The Times of India. However, experts estimate that there were at least 500,000 ceremonies held at this time. Comparatively, between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2018, there were 60,304 registered, while between January 1 and September 30, 2019, there were 19,254 marriages. In accordance with a 2006 ruling, is compulsory under the (Compulsory Registration of Marriage) Order, 2014. According to experts, was still regarded as a procedure to obtain a certificate necessary for obtaining a visa and adding the names of spouses to passports. While talking to The Times of India about the reason for fewer registrations, Namita Roy, a Delhi-based lawyer said that marriage under Hindu law is a ritual and its registration is compulsory under Section 8 of Act. However, she further explained that in some communities, such as Muslims, who practice personal law, marriages are documented by themselves. She added, The government has now made it stringent and started imposing a penalty if there is a delay beyond the stipulated time." According to the data compiled by the revenue department, the Act accounted for the majority of the 56,918 registrations made in the past 35 months (32,943), followed by the Compulsory Marriage Order (19,809), Anand Act (2,436), and the Special Marriage Act (1,730). Sikh marriages are registered under Anand Act, while brides and grooms of other faiths register their unions under the Special Marriage Act, apart from court marriages. According to sources, the Compulsory Marriage Order requires that the application must be submitted within 60 days of the marriage. These are chosen by couples that need to apply for spouse visas and travel abroad for work. Couples could apply for online on the e-district portal or use the doorstep delivery of services, said officials. Between October 1, 2019, and August 31, 2022, South West district (9122) saw the most marriages registered, followed by Shahdara (8,157) and North West (6,712). The North East (918) district, New (3,437) and Central (3,616) districts registered the fewest marriages. Notably, in the North West, New Delhi, and West districts, there were no applications for or registrations of under the Compulsory Marriage Order. According to Delhi-based lawyer Vrinda Kapoor, registration of marriage is now required for many activities, such as filing for a passport and visa, changing one's last name after marriage, and creating a joint bank account, among others. President Droupadi Murmu will start her two-day tour on Monday by visiting the Ashram at Sabarmati in and also inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for projects worth Rs 1,330 crore at a function in Gandhinagar, according to a state government release. This will be her first visit to as the President. "On the first day of her two-day visit, President Murmu will offer prayers at the Gandhi Ashram before taking part in the event in which will also be attended by Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel," the state government release said. Later in the day, she will inaugurate/lay the foundation stone for various projects related to health, irrigation, water supply and port development at GMERS, Gandhinagar, a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said. In the evening, she will attend a civic reception hosted by the government of Gujarat in her honour in Gandhinagar, it added. The Gandhi Ashram, also known as Sabarmati Ashram, was one of the many residences of when he was not travelling across India or in prison. It was from here led the Dandi march, also known as the Salt Satyagraha on March 12, 1930. On October 4, the president will launch 'herStart' -- a start-up platform of Gujarat University for women entrepreneurs -- and lay the foundation stone for various projects related to education and tribal development at Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, the statement said. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) To prevent the use of counterfeit and substandard medicines, the government may soon launch a "track and trace" mechanism. Under this, the customers will be allowed to use QR codes to know if the pills they are popping are authentic or not. The report added that under the first phase of the exercise, QR codes will be printed on the primary packaging labels. Primary packaging labels are the first-level packaging like the bottle, can, jar, tube or strip. In the first phase, medicines costing over Rs 100 per strip may be included. Of late, there have been several reports of counterfeit drugs in the market. A racket of Glenmark's pill for blood pressure, Telma-H, was busted at Baddi. In another instance, Abbot's Thyronorm was listed by the Telangana government as being "not of standard quality." According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), in low and middle-income countries about 10 per cent of medical products are substandard. Business Standard (BS) had earlier reported that in March, the health ministry had asked the department of pharmaceuticals (DoP) to shortlist 300 drug brands that can be included for implementation of mandatory QR codes. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) had identified the list of 300 drugs, which include widely used medicines, such as painkillers, contraceptives, vitamins, blood-sugar, and hypertension medicines. ALSO READ: Top 300 drug brands to have QR codes on label for ensuring authenticity With the implementation, the costs are expected to go up by 3-4 per cent for the phone makers. Along with the QR code, the government may also soon launch a portal where the customers can feed the unique ID of the medicines and check for their authenticity. Gradually, it may be expanded to other pharma products and handheld devices. The government is considering changing the definition of "death" in the law on organ transplants. The proposed change is in the wake of an acute shortage of harvestable organs for transplantation, Livemint reported. At present, in line with the Transplantation of Organs and Tissues Act, doctors harvest organs from a patient who is declared brain stem cell dead. If a patient dies of natural causes, organs also stop working but in the case of brain death, the death certificate mentions the vital organs that are alive, like the heart, lungs, etc. Due to this, the patient's family thinks that the person is still alive. This difference in the definition has hampered the prospects of organ transplantation in the country. Another challenge for doctors is to decide when is the right time to start counselling the patient's family members for consenting to . According to doctors, organs harvested from a brain-dead person can save at least seven lives. In a metro city, at any given point of time about 10 patients are referred to intensive care units as braindead, according to the Livemint report. Every year, many patients die on waiting lists at top hospitals to access life-saving organ transplants. According to the report, in India, nearly 50,000 people need heart transplants, 200,000 need kidneys, and 100,000 each for liver and eye transplants every year. Against this demand, the supply is too less due to challenges like religious sensitivities, lack of infrastructure and awareness. Organs have a short self-life post-retrieval from the body. For instance, the heart can only be stored for up to 6 hours. A reform in the existing law on these lines can give a push to and transplantation in India. The mortal remains of stalwart Kodiyeri Balakrishnan were consigned to flames on Monday at Payyambalam beach here in the presence of tens of thousands of party workers and senior leaders, who arrived to bid farewell to their dearest comrade. Chief Minister and Marxist party General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, along with other leaders carried the body of Balakrishnan to the pyre readied at Payyambalam beach. Vijayan broke down while remembering his comrade and veteran Left leader Balakrishnan before the thousands who came to bid an emotional farewell this evening. Balakrishnan, who was the former Home and Tourism minister of Kerala, was cremated with full State honours. His two sons, Binoy and Bineesh, lit the pyre while slogans hailing the departed leader reverberated across the beach. Vijayan, along with party State secretary M V Govindan and leaders M A Baby, A Vijayaraghavan, M V Jayarajan, and the State ministers, led the over 3-km long procession of party workers. Addressing the gathering, Yechury said Balakrishnan battled all deviations and "unhesitatingly adhered to revolutionary principles". On behalf of the Congress party, MLA Sunny Joseph said he and his party share the grief and sorrow along with the party and the family of Balakrishnan. Vijayan, on the verge of tears, said the demise of Kodiyeri was a huge loss and gave his word to the party workers that they would work together to fill the gap. He thanked everyone, including the media, for sharing the party's sorrow. "Balakrishnan is a prominent leader of the Left party. Our party comrades, our wellwishers, those who love the party, people from all walks of life today rushed to see comrade Balakrishnan for one last time. It was emotional...This is a great loss. This is not a gap which we can fill easily. We give you all our word, this is a huge loss, no doubt but we will work together and to fill that gap. As I said before... I conclude...," teary-eyed Vijayan concluded his speech. Yechury deeply mourned the demise of Balakrishnan and said he guided the party through its most difficult times. The party general secretary said the record of rewinning an election after half a century of being the incumbent government goes to a large extent to the manner in which the party was organised under Balakrishnan's leadership. "We will carry forward the principles he fought for, the ideology he fought for, the cause of the people he fought for... it will be the fittest homage to comrade Kodiyeri Balakrishnan,... red salute," Tamil Nadu leader and politburo member G Ramakrishnan said. In the public meeting, BJP leader C K Padmanabhan said Balakrishnan was a very trustful person whom anyone can approach due to his friendly and gentle behaviour. He remembered Balakrishnan's efforts to mitigate many serious issues in the State. NCP leader and minister A K Saseendran remembered Balakrishnan as a bridge between the various fronts of the ruling alliance. IUML leader Abdu Rahiman Kallayi, representatives of other political parties in the State also paid their respects. Vijayan's wife Kamala was seen holding tight Vinodhini, the widow of the Left leader, throughout the funeral ceremony. Binoy and Bineesh broke down after lighting the pyre before an emotionally charged party workers at the Payyambalam beach. The senior Left leader passed away at a private hospital in Chennai on October 1 after battling cancer. He was 70. Tens of thousands accompanied the body of Balakrishnan to Payyambalam beach, around 3 km from the party district committee office, where it was kept for the public to pay homage. Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Senior Congress leaders including KPCC president K Sudhakaran, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, senior Congress leaders K Muraleedharan, Mullappally Ramachandran, various IUML leaders had earlier in the day paid respects to Balakrishnan. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two groups clashed and hurled stones at each other over putting up a religious flag in Savli town in Gujarat's Vadodara district, a police official said on Monday, adding 36 people have been arrested. The incident occurred on Saturday night after a group of people objected to members of another community trying to put up a religious flag alongside their flag on an electricity pole in Dhamiji ka Dera locality, a Savli police station official said. "The matter escalated and both the communities started hurling stones at each other. Nobody was injured but a vehicle and a shop were damaged by rioters," said Savli police station sub-inspector, AR Mahida. Cross First Information Reports (FIRs) were lodged by both the groups on late Saturday night, following which a case was registered for rioting, unlawful assembly, rash act endangering human life etc of the Indian Penal Code against 43 people, Mahida said. A total of 36 people from both communities have been arrested so far, he said. Police security has been beefed up in the communally sensitive area and the situation is under control, he added. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Under a 100-trillion-rupee ($1.2 trillion) mega project called PM Gati Shakti Modis administration is creating a digital platform that combines 16 ministries. A high-level panel set up by the to look into issues being faced by venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) investors is examining the feasibility of introducing a broad-based rule for alternative investment funds (AIFs). Read more on these on our top headlines. $1.2-trn 'PM Gati Shakti' plan can snatch away factories from China In India, half of all are delayed, and one in four run over their estimated budget. PM Modi believes technology is the solution to these perennial and notorious bottlenecks. Under a 100-trillion-rupee ($1.2 trillion) mega project called PM Gati Shakti -- Hindi for strength of speed -- Modis administration is creating a digital platform that combines 16 ministries. Read more panel mulls 'broad-based' regulations for PE/VCs A high-level panel set up by the to look into issues being faced by venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) investors is examining the feasibility of introducing a broad-based rule for alternative investment funds (AIFs), which include PE and VC funds. Currently, AIFs do not have any broad-based regulation, requiring a large number of investor representations. Read more may not charge a premium for its 5G services initially may not ask for a premium for its 5G services in the initial stages of the launch, according to sources in the company. The company will roll out 5G commercial services in four cities Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata around Diwali this month and slowly ramp up the processes for other cities, too. Read more on new projects declines further in Q2 amid higher borrowing costs Expenditure on new projects slowed down for the second quarter in a row amid an uncertain global environment and higher borrowing costs. There were new projects worth a cumulative Rs 3.26 trillion in the July-September period, according to data provided by project tracker Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). Read more says 84% of Rs 5,551 cr seized by ED was royalty payment to Qualcomm Chinese smart devices firm on Sunday said that over 84 per cent of the Rs 5,551.27 crore seized by the Enforcement Directorate was the royalty payment made to US chipset company Qualcomm. The ED, under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), has approved an order of seizure of over Rs 5,551 crore worth of deposits of Chinese mobile phone manufacturer -- the highest amount frozen till date in India. Read more The police in have arrested a Popular Front of India (PFI) activist. The police, in the FIR, has accused the man of being involved in anti- activities, including provoking Muslims against Hindus and targeting members of Hindu community through terror activities. The arrested accused Mohd Zaid is said to be the active member of Tabligi Jamaat of Markaz Nizamuddin and an alumnus of famous Islamic seminary Nadwa. However, Mohd Haneef, who is Ayodhya's Ameer of Tabligi Jamaat and the father of accused Mohd Zaid claimed that the local police had arrested his son on September 29 from his house in Purani Sabzi Mandi area and had kept him in illegal detention for four days. According to the police, Zaid has been involved in events organised in Kerala. Zaid's relationships with the organisation's top leaders have also been reported. This was the second arrest of an alleged activist from . Four days back an alleged activist Akram was arrested from Bikapur police station area last week. Police said that the information about Zaid was revealed during interrogation of Akram. Together they were conducting the activities of PFI in Ayodhya, police said. --IANS amita/shs (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.) How to understand the Iranian threat By Amb. Dore Gold web posted October 3, 2022 In the years leading up to the Second World War, there were a few voices who were prepared to take a public position about the magnitude of the challenge that the world was about to face. The most famous British voice was, of course, Winston Churchill who stood in the British Parliament in the decade before he became prime minister, with the latest data on Germanys military buildup that rivaled even what the British cabinet possessed. During the 1930s much of that material streamed to Chartwell, Churchills country home where he would meet with British officers, civil servants and diplomats. He was armed with intelligence on the growth of German air power on its acquisitions of new U-Boats that could undermine the naval superiority of Britain. Churchills legacy is more relevant than ever. Last weekend, an Israeli F-35 pilot, only known as Colonel T., gave an interview to Israel Hayom, in which he disclosed his analysis of the current Iranian military buildup. Normally officials who had permission to speak, focused on the Iranian nuclear program or alternatively or their backing of Shiite terror militias across the Middle East. Colonel Ts conclusions had a different focus and were worth studying very carefully: A regional superpower is emerging next to us, which constitutes the main threat to the State of Israel and challenges the Israeli security approach many years ahead. He spoke about a dramatic leap forward in its military capability. Adding to Colonel T.s credentials is the fact that he is the head of the IDF General Staffs Strategy and Third-Circle Directorate. In other words, it is his responsibility to recommend what courses of action Israel must take should Tehran break through and test an atomic device. His warnings were broader than the nuclear threat. There were Iranian actions in the Red Sea and across Africa that needed to be monitored. Lately, Iran has sold its drones to Russia to fight Ukraine. In the past, great powers, like Russia, were selling their most state-of-the-art weapons to the Middle East, but now the direction of those sales was beginning to move in reverse, with an Iranian military industry supplying Russia. This attested to how far Iran had progressed. Iran has clearly adopted a long-term approach. It was back in 2004 that King Abdullah of Jordan first raised the specter of a Shiite Crescent crossing the Middle East from the Iranian border through Iraq and Syria and onward to the Mediterranean coast. Looking over the last two decades this was more than a resupply route for arming Hezbollah. What does Iran want? Iran wanted to remake the Middle East. It had dispatched Shiite proxy armies to Syria, with their families, in order to reconfigure the demography of the region as it aspired to convert Syria into a Shiite State. It used similar techniques elsewhere, working to expand the Shiite population of eastern Turkey. Taking all this activity together in recent years, it is no wonder that Colonel T. has concluded that there is a threat developing here on a scale that weve never known before. In Damascus, in 2008, Shiite militia entered the famous Umayyad Mosque, one of the symbols of Sunni supremacy in Syria, in order to pray. There were cases reported in 2015 of Iraqi and Lebanese Shiite militia entering the Umayyad Mosque and chanting what Sunnis regarded as blasphemous prayers. Shiite militia are being deployed around Shiite shrines in and around Damascus. Finally, Iran is using Syria as a location for new missile production facilities, especially long-range, precision-guided missiles. In some cases, Iran sought to position some of these facilities underground. In short, Syria was emerging as part of Irans strategic system for the region. This did not occur in a vacuum. The Iranians have a historical tradition connecting them to Syria and surrounding states. When Shiism was established as the state religion in Persia by the Safavid dynasty in 1501, the Safavid Empire included what is today Iran, Iraq and large parts of Syria. Recovering lost territories became a feature of Safavid policy and that of its great rival, to its west, the Ottoman Empire. In this context, it is easy to understand where Irans ambitions for regional expansionism came from. Israel can deal with the new Iranian challenge despite its scale. The most dangerous aspect of the Iranian threat comes from those in the international community, and sometimes in Israel, who do not see the entire picture of what Iran has been up to. Contesting the action of an aggressor is a military mission above all. But it is also a diplomatic operation that must be pursued in parallel. That certainly is what drove Churchill before the outbreak of the Second World War and perhaps is what has recently been influencing those speaking for Israel at present. Undoubtedly the next Israeli government will have no choice but to act more intensely and consistently in this regard. Ambassador Dore Gold has served as President of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs since 2000. From June 2015 until October 2016 he served as Director-General of the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Previously he served as Foreign Policy Advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israels Ambassador to the UN (1997-1999), and as an advisor to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. Home The has said the promoter of an insolvent firm cannot continue holding residual stakes in the company after it has been acquired by another entity under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code(IBC). A Bench comprising Justice M R Shah and Justice Krishna Murari on Friday dismissed the appeal by Bhushan Steels promoters Neeraj Singal and others. The apex court said it agrees with the orders of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) in this case and sees no merit to pass a different order. The promoters were holding 2.35 per cent shares in the company even after acquired 72.65 per cent shares during the resolution process under the . The appellants are the erstwhile promoters and therefore, they cannot be continued to be in the company in any capacity, maybe as shareholders, as rightly observed by the NCLAT, the SC order stated. in 2017 had a debt of about ~56,000 crore towards lenders. The same year, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) identified it as among the 12 big loan defaulters to undergo insolvency. On May 15, 2018, the NCLT approved Tata Steel's bid for . However, the promoters of and L&T, one of the lenders, challenged the Tatas bid before the NCLAT Tata Steels resolution plan was to acquire Bhushan Steel for ~35,200 crore, pay another ~1,200 crore over the next 12 months to creditors, and then convert the remaining debt owed to banks to equity. The promoters of Bhushan Steel alleged that was disqualified from the bid as a subsidiary of it was facing trial in the United Kingdom. By this logic, it was disqualified to participate in the resolution plan for Bhushan Steel, the promoters said. The NCLAT rejected this contention and said the subsidiary is a connected person of Ltd. It does not attract the disability under Section 29A of the . We also hold that 'Tata Steel Limited' is eligible to file the resolution plan, said the NCLAT. Meanwhile, L&T submitted that the acquisition amount put forth by the Tatas was not fair to the lenders. The NCLAT rejected this argument, too, and said the Tatas resolution plan was fair and equitable to all lenders. On the lines of these orders, the on Friday said that if the submission on behalf of the appellants is accepted, the resolution plan shall not be workable at all. The appeal stands dismissed, said the court. Increased demand during the ongoing festival season has caused airfares on major routes across the nation to increase by 20 per cent to 30 per cent, reported The Hindu Businessline. Research by ixigo, an Indian AI-based online travel portal, shows that typical airfares have increased by 2030 per cent this year on popular routes as a result of the increase in aviation turbine fuel (ATF). Around and Diwali, EaseMyTrip has also seen a surge in airfares on metro routes. Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO & Co-founder of the IPO-bound OTA said to The Hindu Businessline, With and just around the corner, excitement for the festival season is at its peak. Flight searches have risen 25-30 per cent for leisure travel for week compared to last year. Cleartrips data also revealed 23 per cent higher bookings in the same period. Patna, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Varanasi, Hyderabad, Pune, Goa, Bagdogra and Dehradun are among the top 10 leisure destinations for travel between October 01 and October 24, found the ixigos data. Customer confidence has now increased as the majority of eligible citizens of India have received their booster vaccinations and the virus's impact has decreased. This has encouraged airlines to make up for the lost revenues over the previous two years, which is supported by the raising of the airfare cap on August 31. has predicted that due to increasing demand for travel, last-minute prices for well-travelled routes will experience a sharp increase in airfares. For instance, on travel dates shortly before Diwali, one-way rates for routes like New Delhi to Patna, which are typically approximately Rs 5,000, might reach as high as Rs 8,000-13,000. However, there is a decrease in airfare between and after Diwali in an effort to prevent further financial hardship for its consumers. Along with this, (OTAs) and airlines are providing their clients with flash bargains and offers. According to Cleartrip spokesperson, there are sectors where prices have dropped and there are expensive fares too. The pace of Indias journey to put on track a high-speed rail, or bullet train, seems to have slowed down with land acquisition for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad project failing to meet yet another deadline last week. Chief minister Eknath Shinde had set a September 30 deadline for completing the land acquisition. At the same time, Kerala governments ambitious semi-high-speed SilverLine or K-Rail project is also in a limbo due to widespread protests. Last week, the ministry also said that the state is yet to submit several technical documents. Heres an assessment of the status of planned and ongoing high-speed and semi-high-speed rail projects in India. Semi-high-speed trains are those that travel at speeds of 160-200 kmph, while bullet or high-speed trains travel at speeds of above 300 kmph. Bullet trains The Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project will cover a stretch of 508.17 km and is estimated to cost Rs 1.08 trillion around Rs 213 crore per km. Earlier, the project was to be commissioned by December 2023; the deadline has now been extended, with the first phase to be completed by 2026. So far, 90-95 per cent of the 1396-hectare (ha) needed for the project has been acquired. The pandemic and differences between the central and the erstwhile Maha Vikas Aghadi governments had earlier affected the pace of land acquisition. The project became one of the top priorities of the Shinde government, which took charge in July 2022, with the state regularly monitoring its progress. Civil works (including construction of stations, bridges, viaducts, maintenance depots, and tunnels) had already started on a 352-km stretch in Gujarat and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The three-year delay in execution is expected to increase the planned project cost. The high-speed rail will cover 155.76 km in (7.04 km in Mumbai sub-urban, 39.66 km in Thane district and 109.06 km in Palghar district); 4.3 km in the Union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli; and 348.04 km in Gujarat. The 12 planned stations include Mumbai, Thane, Virar and Boisar in Maharashtra; and Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati in Gujarat. Besides the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project, seven new bullet train projects worth around Rs 10 trillion are in various stages of planning. The newly planned routes include Delhi-Varanasi (865 km), Mumbai-Nagpur (753 km), Delhi-Ahmedabad (886 km), Chennai-Bengaluru (around 350 km), Delhi-Chandigarh (close to 300 km), Mumbai-Hyderabad (711 km) and Varanasi-Howrah (760 km). The final sanction for these new projects will depend on the outcome of a detailed project report, techno-economic feasibility, availability of resources and financing options. Semi-high-speed rail At present, three semi-high-speed trains are running in India along the New Delhi-Varanasi, New Delhi-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Ahmedabad-Mumbai route. The third one was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week. In addition to this, the government has a target of bringing in 475 new trains by 2024-25 75 of them by the end of this year. For this, the existing tracks need to be uplifted. According to former railway employees, trains will not be able to clock the highest speed of 160 kmph on any of the stretches where they are currently running. The speed of these trains has been restricted to 160 kmph for now as the has to upgrade the tracks and also build fences on both sides of the tracks to prevent trespassing. Work is on to raise the sectional speed to 160 kmph on the existing New Delhi-Mumbai (including Vadodara-Ahmedabad) and New Delhi-Howrah (including Kanpur-Lucknow) routes. Keralas dream rail Kerala has announced a plan to have a 200-kmph semi-high-speed train called SilverLine or K-Rail, becoming the first state to consider such a project. It is, however, yet to get a go-ahead from the Centre. If it materialises, it will likely be the first railway line in India with public equity participation. Of the project cost of Rs 63,941 crore, 52.7 per cent of the loans are pegged to come from multilateral or bilateral agencies. The project has already got a nod from several central government bodies for securing loans to the tune of $2.5 billion from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); $1 billion from the Asian Development Bank (ADB); $500 million from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and $460 million from German development bank KfW. However, what is causing trouble for the state government is the widespread resistance from the local people and the Centre not giving a final nod to the proposal. Last week, the ministry informed the Kerala High Court that the state is to provide a detailed project report, including the alignment design and the private and railroad properties required to implement the project. With the Centre, too, going against it, Keralas dream of having a semi-high-speed line between two of its most prominent cities is likely to take some time. Despite weak economic sentiment in key international markets, the have surged 32 per cent year-on-year to Rs 60,578 crore during the April-July 2022 period. The state exported goods worth Rs 45,861 crore during April-July 2021. is ahead of some major states, including Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, West Bengal, and Odisha, in terms of growth in exports even as the corresponding growth rate of eight Indian states even went negative, a government spokesperson said. The states that saw their exports nosedive into a negative territory include Uttarakhand, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Jharkhand, etc. registered an upswing in exports of an array of labour-intensive segments, such as electrical machinery/equipment, meat, textiles, footwear, vehicles/auto parts, etc. The electrical machinery/equipment segment grew nearly 90 per cent with shipments jumping to Rs 13,606 crore in the April-July 2022 from Rs 7,202 crore in the year-ago period. Meanwhile, the UP government is targeting to increase from the current level of Rs 1.56 trillion to Rs 3 trillion in the next three years. The micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sector contributes the maximum of more than 70 per cent to the UP export basket. The state has witnessed a surge in shipments, especially after the government implemented its flagship One District One Product scheme, which is aimed at reviving the indigenous industries through financial infusion, capacity building and marketing support. Now, the state is developing each of its 75 districts as export hubs to provide impetus to shipments. Of the 50 pan-Indian districts selected by the Centre to develop as model export hubs under a pilot project, six belong to UP, namely Moradabad, Kanpur, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Agra, and Gautam Buddha Nagar (Noida). Moreover, the UP government is striving for import substitution to bolster the domestic industries and create job opportunities. During fiscal year 2021-22, UP had clocked merchandise imports worth more than Rs 55,000 crore via dry ports (railway and road cargo terminals directly linked with domestic seaports). UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has mandated the department to identify top merchandise imports, which could be substituted with indigenous production. The state has identified 95 items constituting its import basket, of which four dozen items account for imported value ranging from Rs 100 to over Rs 10,000 crore. These include industrial and engineering products, chemical, minerals, precious stones, agricultural/food processing items, etc. Calicut University has announced the second semester results for undergraduate degree programmes and the candidates who had appeared for the exams can visit the official website of the university to check the results, according to Jagaran Josh. The results of the Regular, Supplementary, and Improvement exams have been made public by the university. Students must go to the official website and input their Calicut University registration number and password in the result link (http://results.uoc.ac.in/) in order to view the Calicut University 2nd Semester Results 2022. Candidates should double-check the information provided in the online mark sheet when checking the Calicut University second semester results 2022. It should be noted that the university will soon release the students original certificates. The original certificates will be available at the respective colleges. How to access the 2022 Calicut University Results The results for the second semester of 2022 are available on the official website of Calicut University and can be downloaded from there. To access the results, students must visit the official website and enter their login credentials in the link provided. Here are the steps that students can follow for checking their results: Step 1: Visit the official website of Calicut University Step 2: Select the Result link under Pareeksha Bhavan Step 3: Scroll through the result links mentioned on the website Step 4: Click on the subject link and enter the registration number and password Step 5: Download the Calicut University Semester Result for further reference Information provided on the Calicut University Result sheet The following information will be given on the second semester result sheet of Calicut University: Name and Roll Number of the students Name of the examination Marks secured in internal exam Marks secured in each subject Total marks secured Minimum marks required Grade secured Qualifying status of candidate At least 65 health workers in have been put under quarantine after getting in contact with cases, a ministry of health spokesperson said. Emmanuel Ainebyoona, Ministry of Health spokesperson told Xinhua news agency by telephone that some of the affected workers would stay home for 21 days. "We are monitoring them for 21 days. We believe they got in contact with suspected cases of Ebola," Ainebyoona said. "They are in isolation but in their homes. But the situation is under control," he added. This comes after one doctor, a Tanzanian national on Saturday died of in the western Ugandan district of Kabarole. The outbreak in was announced on September 20, after a 24-year-old male adult tested positive. The ministry of health said by September 30, the country had registered 38 confirmed cases and 8 deaths as a result of Ebola. --IANS int/shs (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.) After the first version of China's flagship Belt and Road initiative was blocked, is working on a 2.0 version while being open to accepting some losses on loans and renegotiating debt, something it had been previously unwilling to do, a report said. Federico Giuliani writing for Inside Over said, "China has been accused of digging holes for others with the "One Belt, One Road" initiative, only to fall into it but the country denies the criticism while refusing to admit its loan losses." China's Belt and Road initiative -"One Belt One Road" project is in deep trouble after big losses with many loans to emerging economies falling into repayment troubles due to financial distress and a slowing . However, a report from Wall Street Journal stated that after nearly a decade of pressing Chinese banks to be generous with loans, "Chinese policymakers are discussing a more conservative program, dubbed Belt and Road 2.0 in internal discussions, that would more rigorously evaluate new projects for financing," the people involved in policy-making said. "China has begun working with other creditors to resolve current debt quagmires. To do so, has had to abandon its longstanding resistance to working with institutions like the Paris Club, an association of large sovereign creditors including the US, Japan and France. It's coordinating with members of the Group of 20 advanced and developing economies to negotiate debt relief in some countries," the report added. As per the report, China has spent a trillion dollars to expand its influence across Asia, Africa and Latin America through its Belt and Road infrastructure program. Now, is working on an overhaul of the troubled initiative. Chinese President Xi Jinping once called the initiative the 'Project of the Century,' but this reform exposes the limits of his vision to reshape the global order," the report said, diminishing Beijing's global ambitions. Chinese banks have already sharply reduced lending for new projects in low-income countries as they focus on cleaning up their existing loan portfolios. "In the past, Chinese banks have insisted on a commitment from borrowers to keep Chinese loans out of Paris Club-style restructuring to ensure China gets its first payment from lenders in the event of any default. According to AidData, a US-based research lab, three-quarters of Chinese loan contracts contain a "no Paris club" clause. But in November 2020, with the effects of the pandemic adding more pressure on borrowers, Beijing agreed to sign up to the Common Framework, an debt-relief effort endorsed by the G-20 that helps coordinate debt negotiations among creditors. The common framework is built on principles like those used by the Paris Club to find solutions when countries struggle to repay their debts. Despite repeated invitations to join the Paris Club, China has resisted," Giuliani quoted the WSJ report. Over the years, the Chinese government has tended to extend the repayment period of those troubled loans, a practice known in the financial industry as "deferral and pretence". The risk of this strategy is to prolong countries' debt woes, not solve them, Giuliani wrote. Over the years, China has succeeded in drawing more countries in order to expand its influence but regarding the future of the Belt and Road Initiative, a senior fellow and sovereign-debt expert at the think tank Council on Foreign Relations said that "If Belt and Road is going to retain its importance in expanding Chinese influence, China may need to find a new way," the WSJ report said. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Baquer Namazi, an Iranian-American and former official imprisoned in on charges of spying and cooperating with the US government, has been released, according to local media citing officials. Namazi served at UNICEF as Representative for Somalia, Kenya and Egypt, among other positions. As per the official IRNA news agency on Sunday, the Iranian government released Namazi on humanitarian grounds. Deputy Chief of the Iranian Judiciary Kazem Gharibabadi and secretary of the High Council for Human Rights as quoted by IRNA said that the former official was staying at his own home in Tehran, not in prison for nearly four years because of his health problems, was allowed to leave anytime he wants. On Wednesday, the ban on his leaving was removed, following his requests for continuing his medical treatment outside the country, the official said. Meanwhile, Siamak Namazi, the Baqer Namazi who was also imprisoned in Iran for nearly seven years on espionage-related charges rejected by the US as baseless, has been allowed out of Tehran's prison on a one-week furlough, IRNA news agency reported quoting Gharibabadi. On Saturday, Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman of the UN Secretary-General, quoted UNSG as saying that Antonio Guterres has appreciated Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi for accepting his demand to release Baquer Namazi's to continue his treatment procedure overseas. "The Secretary-General is grateful that, following his appeals to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, our former colleague Baquer Namazi has been permitted to leave Iran for medical treatment abroad," the statement read. Dujarric also said that Baquer Namazi has been released from prison and left Iran, adding that Siamak Namazi has been also freed, but he is still in Iran. "The Secretary-General is also pleased to learn that Baquer Namazi's son, Siamak Namazi, has been released from detention," it also read. Guterres expressed satisfaction that Siamak has been released and that the UN will continue to consult with Iranian officials on a range of issues such as regional situation, sustainable development and support for human rights. "We will continue to engage with the Iranian authorities on a range of important issues, including the regional situation, sustainable development and the promotion and protection of human rights," the statement further read. According to IRNA news agency, Baquer and Siamak Namazi were arrested a few years ago on charges of spying and cooperating with the US government, and each was sentenced to 10 years of prison. (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.) Vivek Lall, an Indian-origin CEO, is honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award by US President Joe Biden with citation of 'With Grateful Recognition'. The citation was given to Lall, who has done PhD in Aerospace Engineering from Wichita State University in Kansas, by the AmeriCorps and the Office of the President. It was also personally signed by the President of the United States, as per the official statement. AmeriCorps is a part of the US Government. The organisation aims to foster activities that bring Americans closer together to "serve communities." Dr Lall, an industry leader and scientific community titan works as Chief Executive at . The company is a global leader in the specialised fields of nuclear technology and has developed state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) like the Predator, Reaper and Guardian drones. Lall, a son of an Indian diplomat, was one of the handfuls of individuals with Indian origins to have been invited to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the past year during his Washington visit. Notably, before his leadership position in General Atomics, Dr Lall worked at other leading organisations like NASA, Raytheon, Boeing and Lockheed Martin; his experience and accolades have been considered unparalleled by many in the scientific community and by long-term industry watchers alike. He is serving as a US Technical Team Member to the Noth Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Science and Technology (STO) with the Pentagon. He was appointed in a critical advisory role to the US Cabinet Secretary heading the Department of Transportation, encompassing entities like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in 2018. (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.) announced on Sunday that a high-level dialogue forum with the (EU) will be renewed in Brussels on Monday after a decade-long freeze. Prime Minister Yair Lapid will head the Israeli delegation for the first meeting of the renewed EU- Association Council dialogue, Xinhua news agency reported, citing a statement by the Israeli Foreign Ministry. On the European side, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell as well as foreign ministers of EU member countries will participate. The discussions would focus on issues including trade, climate change, energy, culture, science and technology, according to a statement issued by the Council of the EU on Thursday. The talks would also engage in "the respect for human rights and democratic principles, freedom of religion as well as the fight against antisemitism," the Council statement said. The convening of the Association Council, the highest forum steering Israel-EU relations in science, economy, energy, environment, and other issues, "will enable to continue developing its relations with the EU for the benefit of the citizens of Israel," the Israeli ministry noted. It will be the 12th meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council, after the last one in 2012. The dialogue forum has been frozen for a decade amid Israel's continuous expansion of the settlement in the occupied West Bank despite the EU opposition. In September, Borrell "warmly" welcomed Lapid's support for the two-state solution with the Palestinians expressed in his address to the UN General Assembly. --IANS int/shs (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US Navy's Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) is taking too long to finish and is beyond its budget. It is about three years late, and the cost is over 50% due to not checking if Boeing Co. can finish the project, noted congress. Orca Drone Project Exceeds Funding Based on the Government Accountability Office (GAO), a report published Wednesday, cited several observations about the huge unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), reported Bloomberg. Mentioning the huge costs and missed deadlines are due in part to the Navy's choice not to necessitate the contractor to prove its preparedness to fabricate the working model. Going over the budget due to not requiring the contractor to show if the project can be completed, noted Defense Daily. Everything was intended as a $379 million venture to create 70-ton drones. The GAO said that the dimensions of a train carriage had become at least a $621 million effort, with $504 million just now expended. Boeing and the Navy now anticipate the contractor to finish and send all five vehicles in February and June 2024, even though the contract called for the initial five vessels to be supplied in December of 2020 as well as the rest by this December. Bloomberg News covered the delay last June. Since the Navy really wanted to "field the vehicles rapidly," Boeing "did not show its preparedness to fabricate" the extra-large Giant Orca drone, as stated by the GAO, per Real Clear Defense. Read Also: Volodymyr Zelensky Net Worth 2022: How Wealthy Is the Ukraine President? The Navy ascertained that Orca would have been crucial to satisfying an emerging new need. However, the service "did not put together a good business case, which included cost and timeline projections, to make sure that it was able to deliver the vehicles speedily to the fleet," GAO said. Other Concerns Over the Project Stockholders are starting to grow more worried about Boeing's challenges in achieving defense contracts, particularly given the billions in expenses the firm has documented for huge costs on projects like the KC-46 aerial refueling tanker and the new Air Force One. Even before the GAO report was published, Vertical Research Partners analyst Robert Stallard asserted in a client note that the commercial aviation side of Boeing remains to acquire the most interest, although there is actually more worried about the financial risk from the swathe of fixed-price projects in Boeing Defense. He added that Boeing is at risk of incurring significant additional costs. The company was selected as the winner of the contract instead of Lockheed Martin Corp. As Boeing struggled to construct the Orca, which had significant differences from an earlier prototype, delays ensued, according to the GAO. As shown by Boeing, when it ended up winning the contract to fulfill the Fleet specifications, it was required to rethink the layout for critical elements, upgrade subcontractor price suggestions for big portions like the hull, boat hulls, and battery, as well as modify manufacturing techniques to take into consideration the differences with Echo Voyager, the working model, the GAO said. In a comment from June, Boeing noted the dangers associated with developing "fresh, sophisticated equipment" and also the effects of COVID on beginning production. The firm is way behind schedule while China and Russia are pushing ahead with other UUVs, like the Giant Orca drone. Related Article: US Military Soon To Get AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missile as Replacement for Outdated AGM Hellfire @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. As the controversy regarding the leaked audio continues in Pakistan, former Prime Minister has challenged the coalition government led by Muslim League (N) to arrest him. Addressing a public gathering in Taxila, Punjab on Sunday, the deposed leader said PML-N vice-president Maryam Nawaz wanted the cypher to disappear in a bid to hide the conspiracy hatched by PM Shehbaz Sharif's party. "This is the movement of real independence and we are ready to face jails. I am ready to go to jail and my nation as well. We are not afraid of jail," he was quoted as saying by The Nation. The cypher is an alleged secret diplomatic cable which fuelled conspiracy theories that the US administration wanted to topple Imran Khan's government and facilitate regime change in the country. The cypher is based on then-envoy Asad Majeed's meeting with US State Department official Donald Lu, who has been at the centre of PTI's claim that the US conspired to dislodge Imran from office in April. During his address, Khan said, "They have started a new drama regarding the disappearance of the cypher while its master copy is in the office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Maryam Nawaz can ask her ambassador about it," he added. While referring to the army, he said, "those who could prevent the conspiracy from succeeding, if they call themselves neutral at this time, the nation will never forgive them." Pakistan's Federal Cabinet has formally given the go-ahead to start legal action against former PM over the recent audio leaks that purportedly featured him and his aides discussing a US cypher. On Friday, the federal cabinet met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the chair. The cabinet accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief of compromising national interests for political gains. According to a handout issued after the cabinet meeting, the "theft" of diplomatic cypher records is an "unforgivable crime" and a violation of the Official Secrets Act, 1923. Later on Saturday, Maryam Nawaz called for a raid at the PTI chief's residence to recover the missing copy of the cypher, alleging that Khan conspired to twist a routine diplomatic cable. Meanwhile, the Islamabad High Court on Sunday approved the pre-arrest bail of and directed him to appear before the court concerned before October 7 in a contempt case. This comes after an arrest warrant was issued for the former premier in connection with his controversial remarks against Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Zeba Chaudhry and other officials at an August 20 public rally. (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 Indian and French Consulates here jointly hosted an event to mark Day of Non-Violence, held on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The event was hosted at Satyagraha House, the first residence of Gandhi during his stay in the city at the turn of the last century. A company has converted the residence into a boutique hotel where visitors can experience the lifestyle led by Gandhi. "It is now a provincial museum and we would very much like it to be a national monument," said Edna Oberholzer, manager of Satyagraha House. "Our brief here is to explain to people how this house fits into the history of Gandhi in Johannesburg. As part of that, we also touch on the issue of non-violence as Gandhi espoused," Oberholzer added. The manager said the Mahatma and his inner circle used this as a base and they started writing down all principles of Satyagraha, which they have displayed at various places in the house. "The first autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi was also written in this house," Oberholzer said. Consul General for France Etienne Chapon said he had been looking for an ideal opportunity to pay tributes to the organisation, Jo'bourg Accueil, which consists of French expatriates who engage in a wide range of community activities in Johannesburg. "When I heard about it and discovered Satyagraha House, Anju (Ranjan, Consul General for India in Johannesburg) and I came up with the idea of organising a joint event," Chapon said. "I don't want to compare members of Jo'bourg Accueil to Gandhi, that would be putting too much responsibilities on their shoulders. However, I'm sure that the great Gandhiji, if he were here today, would easily recognise himself in the values carried by Jo'bourg Accueil, those of inclusiveness, solidarity, mutual aid and sharing," Chapon added. Commenting on Satyagraha House, Chapon said he found it "absolutely magical by the serenity that it exudes". Ranjan said there was something special about Satyagraha House. "The spirit of Gandhiji you can feel all around you. He started thinking about and jotting down the principles of Satyagraha here. We can say that this is the birthplace of Satyagraha and Tolstoy Farm was the laboratory for Satyagraha," Ranjan said. Tolstoy Farm was a self-sufficient commune started by Gandhi during his stay in the city. After being completely vandalised, the Mahatma Gandhi Remembrance Organisation led by veteran Gandhian activist Mohan Hira is currently reviving it. Hira made a plea to the community to support the project. Ranjan said even Nelson Mandela, who became South Africa's first democratically-elected President after spending 27 years as a political prisoner of the apartheid white minority government, had acknowledged Gandhi's influence on his own political education. "Gandhiji's views therefore became guiding principles in the struggle against oppression in both and India. We cannot pay enough tribute to what he has done for us and for humanity in both our countries," Ranjan said. "Many leaders followed the Gandhian principles, including Martin Luther King and Barak Obama. Even today, leaders such as President Emmanuel Macron of France still find it relevant," Ranjan said. "Let us follow Gandhiji's path of non-violence and truth and embrace other communities' cultures so that we experience Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family)," she concluded. (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.) Swedish scientist Svante Paabo won the Nobel Prize in medicine Monday for discoveries on that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal that helped us understand what makes humans unique and provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Techniques that Paabo spearheaded allowed researchers to compare the genome of modern humans and that of other hominins the Denisovans as well as Neanderthals. Just as you do an archeological excavation to find out about the past, we sort of make excavations in the human genome, he said at a news conference held by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. While Neanderthal bones were first discovered in the mid-19th century, only by understanding their often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the time when modern humans and Neanderthals diverged as a species, around 800,000 years ago, said Anna Wedell, chair of the Nobel Committee. Paabo and his team also surprisingly found that gene flow had occurred from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens, demonstrating that they had children together during periods of co-existence," she said. This transfer of genes between hominin species affects how the immune system of modern humans reacts to infections, such as the . People outside Africa have 1-2% of Neanderthal genes. Neanderthals were never in Africa, so there's no known direct contribution to people in sub-Saharan Africa. Paabo and his team managed to extract from a tiny finger bone found in a cave in Siberia, leading to the recognition of a new species of ancient humans they called Denisovans. Wedell called it a sensational discovery that showed Neanderthals and Denisovans to be sister groups that split from each other around 600,000 years ago. Denisovan genes have been found in up to 6% of modern humans in Asia and Southeast Asia, indicating interbreeding occurred there too. By mixing with them after migrating out of Africa, Homo sapiens picked up sequences that improved their chances to survive in their new environments, Wedell said. For example, Tibetans share a gene with Denisovans that helps them adapt to high altitude. Paabo said he was surprised to learn of his win, and at first thought it was an elaborate prank by colleagues or a mundane call about a summer home. So I was just gulping down the last cup of tea to go and pick up my daughter at her nanny where she has had an overnight stay, and then I got this call from Sweden," he said in an interview posted on the the Nobel Prizes homepage. I of course thought it had something to do with our little summer house in Sweden. I thought, Oh the lawn mower's broken down or something.' He also mused about what would have happened if Neanderthals had survived another 40,000 years. Would we see even worse racism against Neanderthals, because they were really in some sense different from us? Or would we actually see our place in the living world quite in a different way when we would have other forms of humans there that are very like us but still different, he said. Paabo, 67, performed his prizewinning studies at the University of Munich and at the Max Planck Institute. After the news conference in Leipzig, colleagues threw Paabo into a pool of water during the celebrations. Pbo took it with humor, splashing his feet a little and laughed. Scientists in the field lauded the Nobel Committee's choice. David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, said he was thrilled the group honored the field of ancient DNA, which he worried might fall between the cracks. By recognizing that DNA can be preserved for tens of thousands of years and developing ways to extract it Paabo and his team created a completely new way to answer questions about our past, Reich said. It's totally reconfigured our understanding of human variation and human history, said Reich, who is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press' Health and Science Department. Dr. Eric Green, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, called it a great day for genomics, a relatively young field first named in 1987. The Human Genome project, which ran from 1990-2003, got us the first sequence of the human genome, and we've improved that sequence ever since, Green said. When you sequence DNA from an ancient fossil, you only have vanishingly small amounts of DNA, Green said. Among Paabo's innovations was figuring out the laboratory methods for extracting and preserving these tiny amounts. He was then able to lay pieces of the Neanderthal genome sequence against the human sequencing of the Human Genome Project, Green said. Paabo's team published the first draft of a Neanderthal genome in 2009, and sequenced more than 60% of the full genome from a small sample of bone, after contending with decay and contamination from bacteria. We should always be proud of the fact that we sequenced our genome. But the idea that we can go back in time and sequence the genome that doesn't live anymore and something that's a direct relative of humans is truly remarkable, Green said. Paabo said they discovered during the pandemic that the greatest risk factor to become severely ill and even die when you're infected with the virus has come over to modern people from Neanderthals. So we and are now intensely studying the Neanderthal version versus the protective modern version to try to understand what the functional difference would be. Paabo's father, Sune Bergstrom, won the Nobel prize in medicine in 1982, the eighth time the son or daughter of a Nobel laureate also won a Nobel Prize. The medicine prize kicked off a week of Nobel Prize announcements. It continues Tuesday with the physics prize, chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The Nobel Peace Prize will be announced Friday and the economics award on Oct. 10. Last year's medicine recipients were David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for their discoveries into how the human body perceives temperature and touch. The prizes carry a cash award of 10 million Swedish kronor (nearly $900,000) and will be handed out on Dec. 10. The money comes from a bequest left by the prize's creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1895. (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.) Palestine has urged the European countries to tie their relations with Israel to its adherence to law, UN resolutions, and human rights principles. "The community is required to hold Israel directly responsible for the escalation in the against the Palestinians, and to put real pressure on it to stop it immediately," the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "Israel insists on escalating the situation, and we seriously view the dangers of this escalation that serves its interests," the statement was quoted by Xinhua news agency as saying. The call came ahead of the 12th meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council, which will be held in Brussels. The meeting will cover topics such as trade, energy, climate change, culture, science, and technology. The meeting takes place amid ongoing tensions between the Israeli army and Palestinians in the . Since early January, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, according to official Palestinian figures. In contrast, 18 Israelis have been killed in attacks carried out by Palestinians in Israeli cities since March. --IANS int/shs (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.) Reformists who ran on fighting corruption and clientelism in public office appeared set to win an important race in Bosnia's elections Sunday that could give them greater sway over the direction of the country which has never fully recovered from its 1992-95 sectarian war and remains divided along ethnic lines. The first preliminary results released by Bosnia's central commission early Monday showed cooperation-prone contenders Denis Becirovic and Zeljko Komsic on course to win respective Bosniak and Croat seats in the tripartite presidency. However, the reformists were likely to be joined by Zeljka Cvijanovic from the strongest Bosnian Serb party the secessionist and staunchly pro-Russian SNSD. Moscow has often been accused by the West of seeking to destabilize the country and the rest of the Balkans through its Serb allies in the region, and the Sunday ballot was held amid growing fears the Kremlin might attempt to reignite the conflict in Bosnia to deflect attention from its campaign in Ukraine. The included contests for the three members of Bosnia's shared, multiethnic presidency, the president of one of its two highly autonomous parts, and parliament deputies at different, in part overlapping, levels of governance. Bosnia's institutional set-up, often described as one of the most complicated in the world, was introduced by a US-brokered peace agreement that ended the war in the 1990s between its three main ethnic groups Muslim Bosniaks, Orthodox Serbs and Catholic Croats. Under the terms of the agreement, Bosnia was divided into two highly independent entities one run by Serbs and the other shared by Bosniaks and Croats which have broad autonomy but are linked by joint, multi-ethnic institutions. All countrywide actions require consensus from all three ethnic groups. If the preliminary results hold, Cvijanovic will take over the post from her political party's boss, Milorad Dodik, who chose to run for the president of Bosnia's Serb-run part rather than seek a second term in the shared, countrywide presidency. Both Dodik, and his main contender, Jelena Trivic, proclaimed victory in the race for the Bosnian Serb president. Their claims will be tested later on Monday, when the commission is expected to announce preliminary results of the presidential ballot for Bosnia's Serb-run part and the races for parliament deputies at the state, entity and regional levels. Prior to the polls, analysts predicted that the long-entrenched nationalists of all ethnic stripes, who have enriched cronies and ignored the needs of the people, will remain dominant in the legislatures at all levels, largely because the sectarian post-war system of governance leaves pragmatic, reform-minded Bosnians with little incentive to vote. Election turnout on Sunday was 50% or over 2 percentage points down from the 2018 general election. On Sunday, shortly after the vote count begun, Bosnia's overseer, Christian Schmidt, announced in a YouTube video that he was amending the country's electoral law to ensure functionality and timely implementation of election results. Schmidt assured citizens in the video that the changes will in no way affect the votes cast on Sunday. The 1995 peace agreement gave broad powers to the high representative, the post currently held by Schmidt, including the ability to impose laws and to dismiss officials and civil servants who undermine the country's fragile post-war ethnic balance. The changes imposed by Schmidt will affect the size of the parliament of the Bosniak-Croat part of the country, and prevent blockades of the formation of its government. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) When the bulk cargo ship Laodicea docked in Lebanon last summer, Ukrainian diplomats said the vessel was carrying grain stolen by and urged Lebanese officials to impound the ship. Moscow called the allegation false and baseless, and Lebanon's prosecutor general sided with the Kremlin and declared that the 10,000 tons of barley and wheat flour wasn't stolen and allowed the ship to unload. But an investigation by the Associated Press and the PBS series Frontline has found the Laodicea, owned by Syria, is part of a sophisticated Russian-run smuggling operation that has used falsified manifests and seaborne subterfuge to steal Ukrainian grain worth at least USD 530 million cash that has helped feed President Vladimir Putin's war machine. AP used satellite imagery and marine radio transponder data to track three dozen ships making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of to ports in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and other countries. The ongoing theft, which legal experts say is a potential war crime, is being carried out by wealthy businessmen and state-owned companies in and Syria. Meanwhile, the Russian military has attacked farms, grain silos and shipping facilities still under Ukrainian control with artillery and air strikes, destroying food, driving up prices. The grain and flour carried by the 138-meter-long (453 feet) Laodicea likely started its journey in the southern Ukrainian city of Melitopol, which seized in the early days of the war. Video posted to social media on July 9 shows a train pulling up to the Melitopol Elevator, a massive grain storage facility, with green hopper cars marked with the name of the Russian company Agro-Fregat LLC with a logo in the shape of a spike of wheat. Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov told AP the occupiers are moving vast quantities of grain from the region by train and truck to ports in Russia and Crimea, a strategic Ukrainian peninsula that Russia has illegally occupied since 2014. A July 11 satellite image shows the Laodicea tied up at a pier in Feodosia. The ship's radio transponder was turned off. Two weeks later, when it arrived at the Lebanese port city Tripoli, it claimed to be carrying grain from a small Russian port on the other side of the Black Sea. A copy of the ship's manifests obtained by AP claimed its port of origin was Kavkaz, Russia. The shipper was listed as Agro-Fregat, the same name on the train cars in Melitopol. The buyer was Loyal Agro Co Ltd., a wholesale grocer headquartered in Turkey. Agro-Fregat didn't respond to emailed questions and a phone number that had been listed on its website was out of service last week. A spokesman for Loyal Agro said the ship's cargo came from Russia. But the Laodicea couldn't have picked up its cargo in Kavkaz, the Russian port listed on the manifest. The ship's hull, which reaches 8 meters (26 feet) below the surface, would run aground in the relatively shallow port, which has a maximum depth of 5.3 meters (17.5 feet). The port in Feodosia is more than twice as deep easily able to accommodate the big ship. Another company involved in smuggling grain is United Shipbuilding Corp., a Russian state-owned defense contractor sanctioned by the United States for providing weapons to the Russian war effort. The company, through its subsidiary Crane Marine Contractor, bought three cargo ships just weeks before Putin invaded Ukraine, in a departure from its core business providing heavy lift platforms to the oil and gas industry. The three ships have made at least 17 trips between Crimea?and ports in Turkey and Syria. When AP called Crane Marine Contractor a receptionist answered by saying the company's name. A man she transferred the call to, however, insisted AP had the wrong number. You have reached the wrong place, we do not have such information, said the man, who refused to give his name. During a typical voyage in mid-June, a 170-meter-long ship (560 feet) called the Mikhail Nenashev was captured on satellite being loaded at the Russian-controlled Avlita Grain Terminal in Sevastopol, Crimea. The ship's radio transponder was turned off, a tactic often used by smugglers known as running dark." It arrived on June 25 in Drtyol, Turkey, and docked at a pier owned by MMK Metalurji, a steel producer. MMK Metalurji is controlled by Viktor Rashnikov, a Russian billionaire who is close to Putin. Rashnikov and his company have been sanctioned by the United States, European Union and United Kingdom. In an email to AP, MMK said the grain came from Russia: The place where the said cargo is loaded is PORT KAVKAZ. As with Laodicea, Nenashev's draught is too deep to dock at the Kavkaz port. Turkey helped broker an agreement between Russia and in July to allow both countries to export grain and fertilizer through safe corridors in the Black Sea. The deal did not address the grain Russia has taken from occupied areas. Though Turkish authorities have pledged to stop illegal smuggling, Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in a June news conference his country had not found any evidence of theft. In our investigation on ships' ports and goods' origins, following claims about Turkey, we saw the origin records to be Russia, he said Whatever the records say, the smuggling operation continues. Crane Marine Contractor's ship Matros Koshka named for a Russian sailor lauded as national hero for his bravery during the Crimean War of 1854 cruised north last week into the Black Sea with a listed destination of Kavkaz before turning off its transponder and running dark. Satellite imagery taken Thursday showed the 161-meter-long ship (528 feet) had docked once again at the grain terminal in the occupied Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, little more than a mile from a Soviet-era statue honouring its namesake. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ukrainian forces achieved their biggest breakthrough in the south of the country since the war began, bursting through the front and advancing rapidly along the Dnipro River on Monday, threatening supply lines for thousands of Russian troops. Kyiv gave no official confirmation of the gains, but Russian sources acknowledged that a Ukrainian tank offensive had advanced dozens of kilometers along the river's west bank, recapturing a number of villages along the way. The breakthrough mirrors recent Ukrainian successes in the east that have turned the tide in the war against Russia, even as Moscow has tried to raise the stakes by annexing territory, ordering mobilisation and threatening nuclear retaliation. "The information is tense, let's put it that way, because, yes there were indeed breakthroughs," Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed leader in occupied parts of Ukraine's Kherson province told Russian state television. "There's a settlement called Dudchany, right along the Dnipro River, and right there, in that region, there was a breakthrough. There are settlements that are occupied by Ukrainian forces," he said. Dudchany is around 30 km (20 miles) south of where the front stood before the breakthrough, indicating the fastest advance of the war so far in the south, where Russian forces had been dug into heavily reinforced positions along a mainly static front line since the early weeks of the invasion. While Kyiv maintained almost complete silence, as it has in the past during major offensives, some officials did describe what they referred to as unconfirmed reports of big gains. Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to Ukraine's interior ministry, posted a photo of Ukrainian soldiers posing with their flag draping a golden statue of an angel. He said it was the village of Mikhailivka, around 20 km beyond the previous front. By Monday afternoon, Ukraine's defence ministry had confirmed only the recapture of Myrolyubivka, a village close to the previous front line. Serhiy Khlan, a Kherson regional council member, also listed Osokorivka, Mykhailivka, Khreschenikvka and Zoloto Balka as villages recaptured or where Ukrainian troops had been photographed. "It means that our armed forces are moving powerfully along the banks of the Dnipro nearer to Beryslav," he said. "Officially, there is no such information yet, but the (Russian) social media pages which are panicking... absolutely confirm these photos." SIMILAR TACTICS TO EAST The advance in the south mirrors the tactics that have brought Kyiv major gains since the start of September in eastern Ukraine, where its forces swiftly seized territory to gain control of Russian supply lines, cutting off larger Russian forces and forcing them to retreat. Just hours after a concert on Moscow's Red Square on Friday where Russian President Vladimir Putin proclaimed the provinces of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia to be Russian territory forever, Ukraine recaptured Lyman, the main Russian bastion in the north of Donetsk province. That has opened the way for it to advance deep into Luhansk province, threatening the main supply routes to territory Moscow captured in some of the war's bloodiest battles in June and July. In the south, Ukraine's advance targets supply lines for thousands of Russian troops - perhaps as many as 25,000 - on the west bank of the Dnipro. Ukraine has already destroyed the main bridges, forcing Russian forces to use makeshift crossings. A substantial advance down river could cut them off entirely. "The fact we have broken through the front means that ... the Russian army has already lost the ability to attack, and today or tomorrow it could lose the ability to defend," said Oleh Zhdanov, a military analyst based in Kyiv. "A month of our work destroying their supplies and reducing the combat effectiveness of this group means that they are functioning on minimal rations in terms of ammunition, fuel and food." Putin has been responding to Russia's failures on the battlefield over the past month by escalating: proclaiming the annexation of occupied territory, calling up tens of thousands of men as reservists and threatening nuclear retaliation. On Monday, Russia's State Duma, the lower house of parliament which is firmly under the control of Putin's ruling party, passed bills endorsing the annexation of the four partly occupied Ukrainian provinces. But Russia's flagging fortunes have led to a shift in mood on once triumphal state media, where talkshow hosts have been acknowledging setbacks and searching for scapegoats. "For a certain period of time, things won't be easy for us. We shouldn't be expecting good news right now," said Vladimir Solovyov, the most prominent presenter on state TV. Ramzan Kadyrov, the pro-Putin leader of Russia's Chechnya province who commands a personal army, demanded the commander of Russian forces in eastern Ukraine be stripped of his medals and sent to the front line. Kadyrov also said Russia should use a nuclear weapon. Putin and other officials have said they could use nuclear weapons to protect Russian territory including newly annexed provinces, but had so far stopped short of explicitly saying they will do so. Asked about Kadyrov's remarks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "This is a very emotional moment." "The heads of regions have the right to express their point of view," Peskov told reporters. "Even at difficult moments, emotions should still be excluded from any assessments." Putin's other big gamble, Russia's first mass military mobilisation since World War Two, has been mired in chaos. Tens of thousands of Russian men have been called up, while similar numbers have fled abroad. Western countries say Moscow lacks the supplies and manpower to train or equip the new conscripts. Mikhail Degtyarev, governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russia's Far East, said on Monday around half of those called up there had been found unfit and sent home. He fired the region's military commissar. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) is in talks with CK Hutchison about merging their businesses in Britain to create a market leading mobile network that could accelerate the roll-out of 5G services and expand broadband availability. said on Monday it would own 51% and Hutchison 49% under the deal being discussed, with the stakes achieved by adjusting ownership of debt rather than exchanging any cash. Combining and Hutchison's Three, Britain's third and fourth largest networks respectively, would create a business with about 27 million customers - more than current leaders BT's EE and Virgin Media O2. "By combining our businesses, Vodafone and Three will gain the necessary scale to be able to accelerate the rollout of full 5G in the UK and expand broadband connectivity to rural communities and small businesses," Vodafone said in a statement. The two hope to strike a deal by the end of the year, according to an earlier Sky report. Shares in Vodafone were up 2.1% at 103 pence by 1124 GMT, compared with a 0.6% fall in the FTSE 100. Vodafone Chief Executive Nick Read said in February the company was pursuing mergers in multiple European markets to improve returns where players barely cover the costs of the capital required to invest in networks. Regulators have previously opposed deals that reduce the number of networks in major markets from four to three, but there have been signals that position has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. Hutchison attempted to buy Telefonica's O2 network in Britain seven years ago but was blocked by regulators. Telefonica went on to create a joint venture with Liberty Global's Virgin Media, creating a fixed-line and mobile operator to challenge former incumbent BT. Vodafone noted in its statement that regulator Ofcom had described Vodafone UK and Three UK as sub-scale operators, which lacked the size to earn their cost of capital and therefore could fall further behind the two market leaders. Read, under pressure from long-suffering investors to improve returns at the pan-European operator, had named Britain as one of four major markets that would benefit from consolidation. Vodafone missed out on a deal in Spain, where rivals Orange and MasMovil are pursuing a to challenge Telefonica, while it rejected a offer for its business in Italy from Xavier Niel's Iliad earlier this year. Niel acquired a 2.5% stake in Vodafone this month, bringing another possible activist to its register in addition to Cevian Capital. ($1 = 0.8944 pounds) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) MUMBAI (Reuters) - Chinese smartphone maker Corp on Sunday said it was "disappointed" with an Indian order that froze $682 million of its and would continue to protect its interests. An Indian appellate authority on Friday confirmed an April order by India's federal financial crime fighting agency, the Enforcement Directorate, to seize 55.51 billion rupees, saying a probe found had made illegal remittances to foreign entities by passing them off as royalty payments. The Chinese smart devices firm in a statement on Sunday said that over 84% of 55.51 billion Indian rupees seized by the Enforcement Directorate earlier this year was the royalty payment made to U.S. chipset company Qualcomm Group "We will continue to use all means to protect the reputation and interests of the company and our stakeholders," it said. The company said that India is an affiliate and one of the Xiaomi Group companies, which entered into a legal agreement with Qualcomm to license IP for manufacturing smartphones. Both Xiaomi and Qualcomm believe that it is a legitimate commercial arrangement for Xiaomi India to pay Qualcomm royalty, the statement said. With an 18% share each, Xiaomi and Samsung together lead the smartphone market in India, the world's second biggest after China, according to data from Counterpoint Research. Many Chinese have struggled to do business in India due to political tensions following a border clash in 2020. India has cited security concerns in banning more than 300 Chinese apps since then, including popular ones such TikTok, and also tightened rules for Chinese investing in India. (Reporting by Rupam Jain; Editing by Sandra Maler) (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shares of pharmaceutical companies were in focus as frontline stocks rallied up to 6 per cent in Monday's intra-day trade, due to strong business outlook. At 12:12 PM, the Nifty Pharma, and the S&P BSE Healthcare indices were up 2 per cent each, as compared to 0.4 per cent decline in the Nifty50, and the S&P BSE Sensex. Among individual stocks, shares of Lupin, and Aurobindo Pharma surged in the range of 5 per cent to 6 per cent. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Granules India, Divis Laboratories, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, on the other hand, were up in the range of 2 per cent to 4 per cent. Shares of hit a new high of Rs 1,141.55, up 2 per cent on the NSE. In the past one month, the stock has soared 12 per cent, as compared to 3 per cent decline in the Nifty50. The street is betting on factors like strong launch pipeline in the US, market share gains from recent launches, and upward scale in the consumer business. That apart, shares of RPG Life Sciences, too, hit a record high of Rs 828.85, up 3 per cent in Monday's intra-day trade. In the past one week, the stock has gained 15 per cent, as against no change in the S&P BSE Sensex. The company is exclusively engaged in pharmaceutical business and operates across Domestic Formulations (DFs), International Formulations and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API). While the growth estimate for the overall industry is positive, RPG Lifesciences will continue to focus on building chronic therapies, expanding specialty portfolio, and life cycle management of current legacy products. The international formulations business, meanwhile, will focus on globalization of existing products, development of new products, scouting of new partners and entry into newer . "The government's focus on developing APIs, and reducing dependence on imports, furthers the strategic importance of the business. This business could see increase with overseas companies looking at India as a global hub for supply of APIs," RPG Life Sciences said. Besides, shares of gained nearly 2 per cent to hit a 52-week high of Rs 967.50 in Monday's intra-day trade. The stock surged 8 per cent in one week, and has surpassed its previous high of Rs 966.90, which it had touched on April 29, 2022. The company expects the global pharmaceutical market to reach about $1.8 trillion by 2026, growing at a compounded rate of approximately 3-6 per cent. Going ahead, the company expects high-single-digit to low-double-digit consolidated topline growth for FY23. "The main growth drivers will be increased pharmaceutical spending in the pharmerging and the consistent launch of high-end specialty innovative products in developed markets," Israel Makov, Chairman of said. That said, analysts at Nirmal Bang Equities do not expect any material change for the pharma industry. While the Indian market is likely to grow by 10-11 per cent per annum, growth in the US market remains a challenge unless competition intensity abates, which is not visible in the near term. "To improve Gx financial visibility, most companies are targeting low-competition complex Gx as well as specialty products. However, these products are adding more uncertainty due to delays in launches (like Copaxone and Nuvaring of Dr Reddys, Copaxone of Biocon, Abraxine of Cipla, Spiriva of Lupin, transdermals of Cadila etc.) amid regulatory concerns," the brokerage firm said in a recent note. The Pentagon said the new aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is preparing for a brief cruise next year. It is getting ready as it will its first-ever deployment in 2023 as part of the Department of Defense's global force management. Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford Out for Commissioning Capt. Paul Lanzilotta, the commanding officer of the Gerald Ford, said it would embark on its first-ever cruise in the Atlantic Ocean, with a port of call as part of the voyage, reported USNI News. He also talked about setting sail with allies. Together with them, we will work on this. Interoperability and interchangeability are desired with partners. As a result, NATO allies are starting to operate around-the-clock while at sea. Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer, commanding officer of the US 2nd Fleet, is now in charge of the carrier strike group during the cruise, which the Navy is billing as a "provider deployment." Together with Destroyer Squadron 2, CSG 12, and Carrier Air Wing 8, they will set sail with Ford, as said by Dwyer. Destroyer Squadron Two (DDG-74) would include the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116), USS Ramage (DDG-61), and USS McFaul. The carrier strike group (CSG) would also include the guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG-60) of the Ticonderoga class, the cargo vessel USNS Robert E. Peary (T-AKE-5) of the Lewis and Clark class, as well as the oiler USNS Joshua Humphreys of the Henry J. Kaiser class (T-AO-188). Read Also: Volodymyr Zelensky Net Worth 2022: How Wealthy Is the Ukraine President? Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford will not be carrying a full carrier air wing, but it is permitted to have eight squadrons on deck during the cruise. These squadrons will include a range of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, per the Insider. According to Lanzilotta, only the Gerald Ford CSG has all the aircraft it needs for deployment. Other CSGs are short on both airplanes and helicopters. The USS George H. W. Bush is an example of it, which has been deployed, states Airlant. Multi-national Cruise Several US allies are on board this multinational cruise, along with nine nations, 17 ships, and one submarine. With all the participating ships, the stages will consist of approximately eight phases, like long-range maritime strikes, distributed maritime operations, and anti-submarine warfighting drills. Lanzilotta predicts having about 4,700 individuals aboard the ship once officers, CSG personnel, destroyer squadron staff, and air wing arrive on board. Ford's CO characterized the voyage as preparation for the carrier and personnel readying for next year's longer rollout. As shown by Lanzilotta, each of the new technologies fitted on the first-in-class carrier, such as the Advanced Arresting Gear, the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), as well as the Advanced Weapons Elevators, are already operational. The Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford will have its first cruise before its deployment in 2023 as several operations will be done with a nine-nation force. Related Article: US Navy Tests and Detonates a 40,000lb bomb Close to New US Aircraft Carrier to Shock Test its Superstructure @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Indian states will aim to raise an aggregate of 195 billion Indian rupees ($2.38 billion) on Monday through sale of bonds maturing in eight years to 25 years. The may set cut-off yields for the 10-year bonds in the 7.74%-7.77% band, according to a Reuters poll of 14 traders. Note Quantum (in bln Median Min Max rupees) 8-year 40 7.71% 7.67% 7.75% 10-year 66 7.74%-7.77% 7.72% 7.80% 12 year-25 year 89 7.78%-7.82% 7.75% 7.90% ($1 = 81.7650 Indian rupees) (Reporting by Dharamraj Lalit Dhutia and Arsh Tushar Mogre; Editing by Neha Arora) (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.) 63 Moons Technologies 4.09% to Rs 167.85 after the company said MCX has extended support and managed services contract for three months. Shares of MCX were up 1.65% at Rs 1238.90 on the BSE. The software support and maintenance agreement between 63 moons technologies (formerly Financial Technologies) and Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), which was last amended on 27 September 2014, ended on 30 September 2022. MCX on 30 September 2022 issued a purchase order to 63 Moons for extending support and managed services for its existing trading & clearing platform for a period of three months, beginning from 1 October 2022 to 31 December 2022. The parties will enter into a fresh arrangement as per agreed terms; however, the services envisaged under the existing agreements with 63 Moons shall remain the same. "In view of new arrangement, trading community now can continue to enjoy seamless trading experience beyond September 30, 2022," 63 moons technologies said in a statement. Mumbai-based 63 Moons Technologies provides technology ventures, financial platforms and solutions for creating digital markets and marketplaces. On a consolidated basis, 63 Moons Technologies reported net loss of Rs 3.85 crore in Q1 June 2022 as against net loss of Rs 9.94 crore in Q1 June 2021. Net sales rose 7.03% to Rs 40.81 crore in Q1 June 2022 over Q1 June 2021. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) HDFC: HDFC increased its Retail Prime Lending Rate (RPLR) on Housing loans, on which its Adjustable Rate Home Loans (ARHL) are benchmarked, by 50 basis points, with effect from 1 October 2022. Coal India: The state-run coal major closed the first half of the current fiscal producing 299 million tonnes (MTs), up 19.7% as against 250 MTs of H1 last year. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ): The company has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary, Adani Aviation Fuels, to commence business in the aviation fuel industry. Eicher Motors: Eicher Motors' total motorcycles (Royal Enfield) sales soared 145% to 82,097 units in September 2022 as against 33,529 units sold in the same period last year. SML Isuzu: The company's total sales rose 5% to 752 units in September 2022 as against 716 units sold in the same period last year. Muthoot Capital Services: The company completed a securitization transaction of Rs 121.56 crore on 30 September 2022. Suzlon Energy: The company informed the untimely demise of Tulsi R.Tanti, the Founder, the Chairman & Managing Director, and one of the promoters of Suzlon Energy on 1 October 2022. Tanti suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away the same day. Likhitha Infrastructure: The company has received orders worth Rs 177 crore (Exc. GST) from various Oil/Gas Distribution Companies during the quarter from July 2022 to September 2022. The total outstanding order book of the company as 30 September 2022, is Rs 1125 crore (Approx.). Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The two-wheeler major's total sales declined 1.95% to 519,980 units in September 2022 as against 530,346 units sold in September 2021. Sequentially, this translates into a growth of 12.4% over the month of August 2022, when the company had sold 462,608 units. In September 2022, the company's total domestic sales stood at 507,690 units (up 0.44% YoY) while total exports were at 12,290 units (down 50.61% YoY). The company sold 480,237 units of motorcycles (down 1.88% YoY) and 39,743 units of scooters (down 2.9% YoY) during the period under review. Hero MotoCorp sold more than 28 lakh units in the first six months of the financial year (April-September) 2022-23. This is a double-digit growth of 14.42% over the corresponding period of the previous fiscal, when the company had sold more than 24 lakh units. Heading into the peak festive season, the company remains optimistic about customer demand over the coming weeks. The normal monsoon across most parts of the country and the encouraging farm activity is likely to contribute towards positive customer sentiments. The company is geared up to launch its first-electric vehicle, VIDA - Powered by Hero on 7 October 2022, the 2-wheeler maker said. The company said that it is finalizing a collaboration agreement with Zero Motorcycles, the California (USA)-based manufacturer of premium electric motorcycles and powertrains. The collaboration will focus on co-developing Electric motorcycles. The company's board also approved an equity investment up to $60 million in Zero Motorcycles, it added. In the month of September, Hero MotoCorp entered into a collaboration with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) to establish charging infrastructure for Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the country. As a part of the initiative, the companies will set-up charging infrastructure for two-wheeled electric vehicles (EVs) across the country, accelerating the transition of mass mobility to an electrified future, the company said in the press release. Hero MotoCorp is the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters. The company recorded 71% jump in standalone net profit to Rs 625 crore in Q1 FY23 from Rs 365 crore in Q1 FY22. Revenue from operations for the first quarter stood at Rs 8,393 crore, a growth of 53% over the corresponding quarter in the previous fiscal. Shares of Hero MotoCorp were up 0.43% to Rs 2,561.10 on the BSE. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) said that the company's overall automotive business recorded its highest overall monthly sales of 64,486 vehicles in September 2022, with a growth of 129% over previous year. The company has also achieved highest ever quarterly sales of 179,673 vehicles, registering a growth of 77% as against last year. The passenger vehicles segment (which includes utility vehicles, cars and vans) sold 34,508 vehicles in September 2022, up 163% YoY from 13,134 units sold in September 2021. The company sold 21,666 units of commercial vehicles (LCV+MHCV) in September 2022 as against 9,468 units sold in September 2021, recording a growth of 128.83%. 3 Wheeler (including electric 3Ws) sales soared 94% to 5,774 units in September 2022 from 2,981 units sold in the same period a year ago. Exports for the month were at 2,538 vehicles (up 0.36% YoY). According to Veejay Nakra, president, Automotive Division, M&M, September was a very exciting month with a strong start to the festive season. We continue to see very strong demand and performance across our portfolio of products, from SUVs, LCV's less than 3.5 tons and our Last Mile Mobility brands. We are delighted that our SUVs have registered the highest ever sales of 34,262 vehicles as well as highest ever overall volumes of 64,486 vehicles for the month of September. Further, M&M's Farm Equipment Sector (FES) announced its tractor sales numbers for September 2022. The company's total tractor sales (domestic + exports) surged 21% YoY to 48,713 units in September 2022 from 40,331 units sold in September 2021. Domestic tractor sales jumped 21% to 47,100 units while tractor exports climbed 26% to 1,613 units during the period under review. Commenting on the performance, Hemant Sikka, president - Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, We have sold 47,100 tractors in the domestic market during September 2022, a growth of 21% over last year. This is our highest ever sale in a month. Demand remained strong during the month owing to festive boost, which we expect to continue in October as well. With Kharif crop harvest starting soon and crop prices holding firm, the sentiment is positive. Above normal monsoon has improved the reservoir levels, leading to high moisture content in the soil, which is very positive for higher food grain production in the upcoming Rabi season. In the exports market, we have sold 1613 tractors with a growth of 26% over last year. M&M Group enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology and financial services in India. It is the world's largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality and real estate. The company reported 66.9% rise in standalone net profit to Rs 1,430 crore on a 66.7% jump in revenue to Rs 19,613 crore in Q1 FY23 over Q1 FY22. Shares of Mahindra & Mahindra were down 1.33% to Rs 1,251.85 on the BSE. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shares of three oil explorers rose by 0.68% to 5.36% after the Central Government on Sunday (2 October 2022) slashed the windfall tax on petrol, diesel, jet fuel and crude oil following a decline in international rates. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) (up 5.36%), Oil India (up 2.61%) and Reliance Industries (up 0.68%), Meanwhile, the Nifty 50 index was down 0.53% to 17,003.65. The Nifty Oil & Gas index was up 0.88% to 7,711.25. Effective Sunday, the government cut the windfall tax on domestically-produced crude oil by about 24% to Rs 8,000 per tonne from Rs 10,500, according to a government notification. The government also halved the levy on export of diesel to Rs 5 per litre. It also scraped a levy of Rs 5 per litre on export of jet fuel, at the sixth fortnightly review of the one-off taxes on oil companies. On 1 July, the Ministry of Finance imposed a cess of Rs 23,250 per tonne (by way of special additional excise duty - SAED) on crude oil produced domestically. It also slapped a Rs 6 per litre tax on the export of petrol and jet fuel (ATF) and Rs 13 a litre on the export of diesel effective 1 July 2022. With this, India joined a select league of nations globally that have taxed windfall gains accruing to oil companies from soaring energy prices. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tata Consultancy Services has won the 2022 Microsoft Supplier of the Year award in the large supplier category. TCS was recognized for consistently delivering new capabilities with automation solutions that help improve accuracy for Microsoft, while also increasing its speed to market. TCS was cited for its expertise across industries that enables Microsoft to better serve customers, showcasing what it means to focus on strategy, impact, agility, and modernization. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will travel to Jammu and Kashmir today (3 October). He will pay obeisance at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, address two mega rallies, chair high level security review meeting, and review developmental activities. The media reported that Shah will arrive in Jammu today (3 October) evening and will meet a few delegations and discuss the political situation in J&K. On Wednesday (5 October), Shah will address a rally in Baramulla town. On Wednesday afternoon, he will chair a high level security review meeting at the Raj Bhawan, Srinagar to review progress on anti-militancy operations, infiltration, and law and order. He will also chair a separate review meeting about the developmental projects in J&K where heads of various departments will be present, reports added. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In the disastrous aftermath of British PMs Liz Truss mini-budget, the pounds reserve-currency status, the last vestige of Britains once-vaunted position at the centre of the international monetary system, is being called into question. While talk of an outright UK default is overblown, it is not unreasonable to anticipate a painful reckoning just short of that outcome, Kenneth Rogoff argues here In other views The second edit says for 5G to meet the goals and objectives of stakeholders, it should be a disruptive technology at an affordable price. Read it here At a time when the Indian economy and financial markets are dealing with uncertainties at multiple levels, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Reserve Bank of India did well to not surprise the market last week. But global developments will need careful monitoring, the top edit cautions here Tamal Bandyopadhyay says in raising the policy rate by 50 basis points, RBI plays out a familiar script. More rate hikes will follow, he predicts here Sunita Narain describes how a community in Odisha has managed to zealously protect its forests for over three decades. Read it here With the almost certain election of as president on October 17, the will not necessarily become a more democratic party, just as J P Nadda's extension did not make the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) more undemocratic. The contrast being made between election vs nomination in appointing the president of the two parties is quite erroneous. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg noted that the military alliance believes that Russia's Nord Stream pipeline suffered damage as a result of sabotage. The NATO chief warned that any attack on the military alliance's infrastructure will be met with a "firm" and "unified" response. Stoltenberg argued that all of the evidence available pointed once again to the idea that the incident was deliberate sabotage. Nord Stream Pipeline Leaks The official's remarks were made during an appearance on Sunday on NBC's "Meet the Press," where he said that what was important now is support the ongoing investigation. The probe could result in the best possible picture of what may have happened and provide authorities with all of the facts. The Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipeline systems, which are responsible for distributing oil and gas from Russia to Germany, suffered unprecedented damage last week due to mysterious explosions. Authorities recorded three leaks on the same day that prompted allegations of sabotage, which Moscow officials acknowledged as a possibility, as per Fox News. A German government official said that they could not imagine a scenario that was not a targeted attack on the pipeline systems. They noted that everything speaks against a coincidence that it was an accident. The situation comes as, in August, the Nord Stream 1 pipeline entirely shut down service when authorities insisted that sanctions against Russia over its war on Ukraine made it impossible to maintain and repair the system. On the other hand, the Nord Stream 2 pipeline was never officially operational. According to the Voice of America News, in a statement, ambassadors to NATO reiterated the military alliance's chief's remarks regarding a response to any attacks on its allies' critical infrastructure. They also noted that the four ruptures in the pipeline systems were of "deep concern." Read Also: Ukraine Forces Drive Out Russian Troops in Key Eastern City; Kadyrov Calls Putin To Unleash Low-Yield Nuclear Weapons Act of Sabotage NATO, despite not naming anyone or any nation for the sabotage of the pipeline systems, said that the leaks are causing risks to shipping and substantial environmental damage. On Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the leaks in the Nord Stream pipelines would not have been possible without a state actor's involvement. The spokesman said that the incident looked like a "terror attack," suggesting that it was probably conducted on a state level. On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that "international terrorism" was responsible for the alleged attack. Peskov noted that the amount of destruction of the Nord Stream pipeline pointed to a deep level of state involvement. He added that the incident is a very dangerous situation that requires a "quick" investigation." United States President Joe Biden also called the leaks a "deliberate act of sabotage" and accused Putin of "pumping out disinformation and lies," but stopping short of directly accusing Moscow of being responsible for the incident. The American president's words were the first time that he had directly asserted that the Nord Stream pipeline leaks were a result of sabotage and not an accident. He pushed back on Russia's narrative about the incident amid Moscow's escalating efforts to claim Ukraine's territory, CNN reported. Related Article: US Slaps New Sanctions on Russia Following Annexation of Ukraine Territories @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The sparkling accolades India earned after Prime Minister Narendra Modi candidly expressed disapproval of Russian President Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine last month dimmed somewhat after India abstained from a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning Russias illegal referendums in four regions of Ukraine and calling for an unconditional withdrawal of troops from that country. India joined China, Brazil, and Gabon in choosing this path. It is unclear why India opted against voting for this unexceptionable resolution, which would have underlined its stated preference for dialogue instead of war. India has also consistently maintained that the global order is based on the UN charter, international law, and respect for territorial sovereignty. Unlike the earlier dozen-odd abstentions at the UN on the Russia-Ukraine question that were recognised as Indias need to seek strategic balance principally the countrys dependence on Russian defence supplies this one has also brought into question Indias global commitment to nuclear disarmament and strengthening the non-proliferation order, a position it has consistently reiterated even after the country conducted nuclear tests. leaders and Vadra on Monday accused the BJP of protecting criminals saying the killed in Lakhimpur Kheri last year were yet to get justice. "One year has passed, but the martyr of Lakhimpur Kheri have not received justice. Reason is the same -- BJP, as always, has been protecting criminals," Gandhi said on Twitter. Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Misra's son Ashish Misra was arrested in the case after four were crushed under the wheels of a convoy of cars, and four others, including two BJP workers, were killed in apparently retaliatory violence. Gandhi said the farmers' agitation was a big inspiration for the behind the decision to undertake Bharat Jodo Yatra. "This struggle will not end without ensuring justice to the farmers," he said. AICC General Secretary Vadra said the Lakhimpur Kheri farmer massacre has exposed the anti-farmer face of the BJP government. "Even after a year, the minister continues in his post due to the protection from power. The trial has been sluggish and the families of the victims are disappointed," Vadra said. "Despite the agitation of the farmers, neither did they get the law on MSP, nor justice for the martyred farmers," she 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.) Lieutenant Governor has accused Chief Minister and his ministers of showing "utter disregard" towards the commemoration of Mahatma Gandhi and former prime minister on their birth anniversaries on October 2. In a letter, the LG said neither Kejriwal nor his ministers were present at Raj Ghat and Vijay Ghat, memorials to Gandhi and Shastri, even as President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and representatives of foreign missions in India among others were there to pay homage. The LG noted that Kejriwal's deputy Manish Sisodia was "perfunctorily present" there for a few minutes, but "did not deem the occasion fit enough to stay the course". The LG also said that such derelictions should be avoided in future. (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.) leader on Monday dubbed the government in as the "most corrupt" in the country and said "'complaints of commission" have been sent to the prime minister but no action has been taken. Gandhi started the 26th day of his Bharat Jodo Yatra at the crack of dawn and walked through the streets of the old Mysuru town, which was decked up for the famous 10-day Dasara celebrations, and reached Mandya. People lined up on both sides of the road to welcome Gandhi and chanted slogans hailing the leader during the yatra that has covered over 600 km in its Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala legs. In Mysuru, the yatra moved as a colourful procession amid beating of drums, with artistes in traditional costumes walking with leaders and workers to match the town's festive spirit. After covering a distance of 22 km, readily shaking hands and clicking pictures with eager supporters on the way, Gandhi addressed a public gathering at Pandavapura bus station in Mandya, where he lashed out at the government in . "This 40 percent Commission government in the state is taking bribes from all and the most affected are farmers, labourers, small traders, and small and medium enterprises. "This is the most corrupt government in the entire country. This government is taking 40 percent commission. Contractors of have written a letter to the prime minister about this commission but there is no action or response," he alleged. The Congress leaders said that even BJP workers are not spared and one recent example was the suicide by a contractor "who happened to be a BJP leader and had to take the extreme step as he could not pay the commission". Gandhi urged the people to join the Bharat Jodo Yatra against the of hate and violence "perpetrated by the BJP in the country". He also greeted the people on the festival of Dasara, which is celebrated with traditional fervour in Mysuru. Gandhi had on Sunday night addressed a public gathering in Mysuru amid torrential rains and continued his speech even while he was drenched. There will be a two-day break in the yatra after which he will be entering the historic town of Srirangapatna on Thursday, from where Tipu Sultan once ruled. Tipu Sultan's mausoleum is located in this city. Congress president Sonia Gandhi, who has arrived in Mysuru, will also be participating in the yatra on Thursday. "I have seen amazing confidence in the yatris who are walking along the path to unite the country. Their courage and determination are an inspiration to me, and a legacy of this journey. "'I am proud that we all together completed 600+ kms of this journey. Love and best wishes to all," tweeted on Monday evening. On Durga Ashtami on Monday, earlier visited the Chamundeshwari temple atop Chamundi hills here on the third day of the party's Bharat Jodo Yatra in Karnataka. Goddess Chamundeshwari is the tutelary deity of the Mysuru royalty and the presiding deity of Mysuru for several centuries. In a tweet in Hindi after visiting the temple, Gandhi said, "Religious harmony is the foundation of India's peaceful and progressive future". He said his yatra is against price rise and unemployment and is about justice, compassion and equanimity. "Be it a temple or mosque, church or gurdwara, all give only one message - love, compassion, peace and brotherhood. Our country is a confluence of various religions, languages and cultures. This is the beauty of India and this diversity is our country's strength. "Today when this strength of our country is under attack, we have to save our dear India. Bharat Jodo Yatra is for every religion, every class, every child, elderly, woman and youth. Come, let us together unite our India," he also said in a Facebook post in Hindi. While the former Congress president declared his resolve to unite India through his journey, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh on Monday hailed the Wayanad MP's rain-soaked moment in Mysuru as "the defining moment of the yatra. (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.) Aiming to gain the stature of a national leader in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, (TRS) supremo and Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao is likely to announce the name of his national party on October 5. According to the sources, it is strongly believed that CM will announce the name of his national party on the occasion of Dussehra. TRS party's meeting will be held on Dussehra at 11 am in Telangana Bhavan here, an official release from K Chandrashekar Rao's office said on Monday. CM said that the notification for the bye-election to Munugodu Assembly would not affect the general body meeting organised on Dussehra and the members need not get confused. "As announced earlier, the party general meeting will be held at 11 am on October 5 in Telangana Bhavan. Leaders are requested to attend the meeting within the specified time," said . So there are speculations that KCR, may reveal the details of his approach towards national after the meeting. It is also believed that a delegation of TRS party leaders will leave for Delhi to change the name of the party. According to the sources, it is also believed that KCR will be addressing a public gathering on October 9 in the national capital. A TRS leader Sreedhar Reddy said, "The people of the Nation are looking for a strong National platform as NDA failed in all aspects of governance. KCR spoke about the national platforms and going to the national level." Reddy said the Gujrat model failed utterly and the country is looking for a strong alternative. "Wait and watch for the CM KCR to announce the name of the national party," said Reddy. On the other hand, Telangana Congress leader and former MP, Madhu Goud Yaskhi said, "It is a meaningless move by the CM of Telangana to form a national party. He has cheated the people of Telangana and now wants to cheat the people of the nation. This is just a cover-up of his failures and a tactic to divert the money from the Delhi liquor scam of his family members". "KCR is just trying to divide the opposition for the benefit of the BJP party. Congress is the only way to a BJP-free country. If KCR wishes it, he should join Congress. However, the Congress does not want any alliance with the TRS party at the state level," said Yaskhi. BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dr Lakshman also retaliated and stated that "In a democracy, any political party has the right to run a national party. As KCR wants to start the national party on the occasion of Dussehra, I want to question KCR whether whatever promises were made to the people of Telangana are fulfilled or not? There is a lot of anger among the people of Telangana among all the groups of people. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Some recent reports have claimed that the large camera housing on Apple's iPhone 14 Pro smartphones hinders the wireless charging feature in some cases. According to Mashable, there have been several user complaints drawing attention to the issue on several forums. Users have complained that the iPhone 14 Pro is incompatible with several wireless chargers due to the camera bump, as it prevents some accessories from charging the smartphone. The reports state that the iPhone 14 Pro's huge camera hump sets it apart from its forerunners externally. Although the cameras have more power, some have complained that they experience excessive shaking when using third-party apps. It was mentioned that the shaky camera configuration could possibly be causing problems with wireless charging compatibility. Previously some Verizon iPhone 14 Pro users in the U.S. complained of calls sporadically disconnecting and poor, unreliable 5G cellular connectivity, according to Mashable. Meanwhile, released an iOS update to address the camera shakiness concerns that certain recent iPhone 14 Pro units were experiencing. To address this problem with the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max camera, is now distributing the latest iOS 16.0.2 update. Third-party programs including Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok received reports of the problem. For every iPhone that can run iOS 16, the update is accessible, as per Mashable. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Delhi [India], October 3 (ANI/NewsVoir): For the very best pasta, pastries, biscuits, tarts and flatbreads, you need the perfect dough. And for the perfect dough, it's crucial to have the highest quality flour-after all: Flour is the most important ingredient! Pure Flour from Europe is exactly that: he highest quality flour available. From the careful growing of the wheat until its harvest, the safety of its milling and storage, to its packaging and transport to grocers' shelves all over the world. Pure Flour from Europe is the safe, reliable, and delicious choice. Whichever recipe you choose, whichever type of dough you need, Pure Flour from Europe will make it as perfect as any dough could be. And the perfect dough makes the perfect pasta, pastries, pies, tarts, flatbreads and so much more. For fresh pasta, flour is mixed with water or egg-whichever you choose, the resulting dough needs to be supple, firm, and cook up to a slightly chewy, very tender noodle: excellent for whatever your pasta needs might be... When making pastry for pies, tarts, biscuits or pastries, you will most likely be mixing your beautiful flour with a fat. For pancakes, flatbreads, and tender-crumbed yeast breads, the liquid you mix in will vary: whether eggs, yogurt, fat or water. But one thing remains the same: from the tenderest pancake, to the flakiest paratha, the puffiest naan, or chewiest pizza dough, Pure Flour from Europe is always your best choice. With its soft pure powdery texture, Pure Flour from Europe has no bits of grit or uneven grains, so your dough will be smooth, tender, and soft (though never flabby-good dough always needs good structure, which is what good flour provides). And it's not simply the texture and consistency of flour that makes a dough perfect. The best flour delivers a subtle flavour of the flour/wheat itself. When you are biting into a sweet biscuit, or savouring a forkful of pasta, it is there, rounding out the flavour of your dough with a satisfying taste and illusive elegance. Pure Flour from Europe contact@pureflourfromeurope.com Pure Flour from Europe is a marketing and promotion programme launched in India under the charge of ITALMOPA, the Italian Milling Industry Association and co-funded by the European Union. italmopa@italmopa.com Find out more (www.pureflourfromeurope.com) and follow us on Instagram @pureflourfromeurope & on Facebook @pureflourfromeurope. This story has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content in this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) DISCLAIMER (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BRI proving a boon to many countries 11:11, October 03, 2022 By Ershad Shikdar ( China.org.cn An aerial view of the Dasherkandi Sewage Treatment Plant in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 24, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua] The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has gone a long way to make positive contributions to many countries since its inception in 2013. The initiative has so far gained ground across Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, North Africa, and Central and Eastern Europe. The combined land territories of those regions account for more than one-third of the world's total, a population of around 60%, and a GDP of 32%, which speaks volumes of its feats. The initiative has also boosted international cooperation on education. China has signed agreements with many other BRI countries on mutual recognition of academic certificates and degrees in higher education, and over 60 Chinese universities have launched academic programs in partnership with local institutions in BRI countries. If we break down the outcomes of the initiative, we can find that large projects under the BRI have greatly boosted the economy and improved local people's livelihoods in many countries all over the world. Pakistan's Ambassador to China Moinul Haque said that the BRI has transformed Pakistan's economic landscape. He mentioned that BRI projects in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor have created around 70,000 jobs in Pakistan. BRI projects have benefited Pakistanis through job creation, improved livelihoods, poverty eradication, and upgrading of remote areas. Large BRI projects in Cambodia, including the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, hydropower plants, Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, the new Siem Reap International Airport, the Morodok Techo National Stadium, roads and bridges, hospitals, and rural water supplies, have similarly generated more than 3,000 jobs for Cambodians during construction. According to a report by the Ministry of Commerce of Cambodia, BRI projects will help Cambodia to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050. They will be the major contributors to Cambodia's economic growth in the post-pandemic era too. Some infrastructure projects are also being implemented in Bangladesh in collaboration with China. Several have already begun, and the people of Bangladesh are reaping the dividends. The Bangladesh Power System Upgrade and Expansion Project, a $165 million power project, is a vivid example of how the BRI is playing a role in improving the livelihoods of the people of the country. This project has benefited more than 7 million Bangladeshis by helping provide electricity connections to over 2.5 million rural people. Besides, China is now implementing a series of infrastructure projects in Bangladesh, including an economic and industrial zone, power plant, bridge, and an exhibition center. Every project has created a huge number of jobs, bringing about enormous socio-economic development in Bangladesh. The China-backed Karnaphuli Multi-Channel Tunnel Project is now underway and scheduled to be finished at the end of this year. The tunnel will connect the port city of Chittagong to the far side of the Karnaphuli River, which will shorten travel time from four hours to just 20 minutes. The Special Chinese Economic Zone, another BRI project in southern Bangladesh, will have the capacity to house 150-200 industrial units and will focus on a range of different industrial sectors, including shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, electronics, agri-business, IT, chemicals, power, and textiles. The 750-acre economic zone is set to create more than 75,000 jobs, a boon to the huge number of unemployed youths in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the Padma Bridge rail link, upon fruition, will cut the travel time from Dhaka to Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, from nine hours to about four. The bridge will ease pressure on the country's premier seaport in Chittagong as it will bolster the second largest Mongla seaport in Bagerhat. Finally, the BRI has also brought good news to Bangladeshi students who aspire to receive a quality education in China. Under the initiative, China has increased its scholarship entry number to 8,000 for Bangladesh. This great opportunity has contributed to increasing remittance inflows to Bangladesh, which is the country's second-largest source of foreign currency earnings, by producing skilled human resources. Apart from these projects, a great number of other BRI plans are immensely contributing to the socio-economic development of many countries. They are directly uplifting the livelihoods of millions of people all over the world, paving the way for the establishment of their basic human rights. The author is a Bangladeshi journalist based in Beijing. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) As rescue teams raced to save those still trapped by floodwaters, US officials vowed Sunday to unleash a record amount of government disaster help as the death toll from Hurricane Ian rose and hundreds of thousands of people lost power in Florida and the Carolinas. Water levels continued to increase in some flooded regions days after Ian tore through central Florida, leaving a fatal path of destruction into the Carolinas, flooding houses and roadways that were navigable only a few days earlier. Hurricane Ian Death Toll in Florida Climbs to 54 The grounds of Fort Hillary's Episcopal Church were covered in branches. Myers, the Rev. Charles Cannon acknowledged the great loss in his sermon on Sunday but also expressed gratitude for what was still there. That includes the stained-glass windows and statues in the church. Sunday saw a decrease in the number of households and companies without electricity, from 2.67 million to around 850,000. There have been at least 54 verified fatalities in Florida, four in North Carolina, and three in Cuba. The National Hurricane Center issued a flash flood warning as the weakening storm moved north on Sunday and was anticipated to pour rain on portions of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and southern Pennsylvania. Four-star general and commander of the National Guard Daniel Hokanson told The Associated Press that more than 1,000 people have been evacuated from flooded areas along Florida's southwest coast alone. The White House announced on Saturday night that President Joe Biden will travel to Florida on Wednesday to see the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. On Monday, the president will first travel to Puerto Rico to see the damage caused by Hurricane Fiona two weeks ago. The precise locations Biden will visit in Florida and the people he will meet with during his travel were not disclosed by the White House. This week, the president gave his approval for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to declare a disaster in the storm-affected areas. This disaster declaration includes expanded individual support for residents in 13 counties. FEMA declared that it had already provided 1.6 million liters of water to Florida and that it will be sending another 6.6 million in the next several days. More than 400 ambulances, four aircraft, and 5.5 million meals are also being provided to remove individuals from nursing homes and other facilities. Also from the agency: Read Also: Florida Governor DeSantis Warns Criminals of Consequences If They Prey on Hurricane Ian Victims Florida Still Recovering From Damages Caused by Hurrican Ian Florida continues to get its power back. Less than 800,000 power outages still exist, and about 70% of peak power outages have been repaired. Lee County received 4,000 liters of diesel from the state of Florida to run emergency generators that would provide water to adjacent hospitals. For hospitals without water, the state is also shipping 1.2 million gallons of water from Lakeland to Fort Myers. In excess of 550 US Personnel from the Army Corps of Engineers are installing generators, performing safety checks, and determining power requirements. On CBS' Face the Nation on Sunday morning, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell complimented power companies for their efforts thus far but noted that it will take time to restore energy in the worst-hit areas, according to Miami Herald. In addition, Hurricane Ian, which wreaked havoc on towns from the state's western coast to inland areas like Orlando, may be the costliest storm in Florida's history. Florida has more flood insurance policies than any other state, but only 13% of residences there have flood insurance, and only 18% of people who live in the counties where evacuation orders were in effect before to Ian. This is according to a study by the actuarial firm Milliman. FEMA's director declared on Sunday that Americans don't need to reside in a flood plain to take advantage of flood insurance. The number one weapon you have to safeguard your family and your house during a storm is flood insurance, according to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. She added, "think that everyone who lives near water should definitely get flood insurance." She said FEMA is actively updating its maps of flood zones. Criswell asserts that although we do so in some areas, everyone has the option to purchase flood insurance, CNN reported. Related Article: Hurricane Ian Update: Photos, Videos Show South Carolina Severely Flooded as Storm Rages On @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The FDIC's official problem bank list is comprised of banks with a CAMELS rating of 4 or 5, and the list is not made public (just the number of banks and assets every quarter). Note: Bank CAMELS ratings are also not made public. CAMELS is the FDIC rating system, and stands for Capital adequacy, Asset quality, Management, Earnings, Liquidity and Sensitivity to market risk. The scale is from 1 to 5, with 1 being the strongest. As a substitute for the CAMELS ratings, surferdude808 is using publicly announced formal enforcement actions, and also media reports and company announcements that suggest to us an enforcement action is likely, to compile a list of possible problem banks in the public interest. DISCLAIMER: This is an unofficial list, the information is from public sources only, and while deemed to be reliable is not guaranteed. No warranty or representation, expressed or implied, is made as to the accuracy of the information contained herein and same is subject to errors and omissions. This is not intended as investment advice. Please contact CR with any errors. Here are the quarterly changes and a few comments from surferdude808: Update on the Unofficial Problem Bank List through September 30, 2022. Since the last update at the end of June 2022, the list decreased by one to 51 institutions after an addition and two removals. Assets decreased by $2.9 billion to $51.5 billion, with the change primarily resulting from a $2.2 billion decrease from updated asset figures through June 30, 2021. A year ago, the list held 59 institutions with assets of $54.9 billion. Added during the third quarter was Unity National Bank of Houston, Houston, TX ($246 million). Removals during the quarter because of action termination included Southwestern National Bank, Houston, TX ($884 million) and Amory Federal Savings and Loan Association, Amory, MS ($74 million). With the conclusion of the third quarter, we bring an updated transition matrix to detail how banks are transitioning off the Unofficial Problem Bank List. Since we first published the Unofficial Problem Bank List on August 7, 2009 with 389 institutions, 1,785 institutions have appeared on a weekly or monthly list since then. Only 2.9 percent of the banks that have appeared on a list remain today as 1,734 institutions have transitioned through the list. Departure methods include 1,024 action terminations, 411 failures, 280 mergers, and 19 voluntary liquidations. Of the 389 institutions on the first published list, only 3 or less than 1.0 percent, still have a troubled designation more than ten years later. The 411 failures represent 23 percent of the 1,785 institutions that have made an appearance on the list. This failure rate is well above the 10-12 percent rate frequently cited in media reports on the failure rate of banks on the FDIC's official list. On September 8, 2022, the FDIC released second quarter results and provided an update on the Official Problem Bank List. While FDIC did not make a comment within its press release on the Official Problem Bank List, they provided details in an attachment that listed 40 institutions with assets of $170 billion. In its 2022 first quarter release, the FDIC list had a material $119 billion increase in assets. Since that release, none of the prudential banking regulators FDIC, Federal Reserve, and OCC have publicly released an enforcement action detailing an enforcement action against a large institution. The Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA) passed by Congress in 1989 requires publication of enforcement actions. See Supervisory Enforcement Actions Since FIRREA and FDICIA, published by the Federal reserve Bank of Minneapolis for further details. Prior to FIRREA, enforcement actions were not published by the prudential banking regulators. Section 913 of FIRREA requires public disclosures of enforcement actions. Section 913(2) does allow a delay in the enforcement action publication if exceptional circumstances exist. The prudential regulator must make a written determination that publication would seriously threaten the safety & soundness of an insured depository institution. The prudential regulator may delay the publication of such order for a reasonable time. The section does not define a reasonable time. It has been more than six months since that enforcement action was issued, so it seems the primary regulator considers this a reasonable time before it informs the public of a large, troubled institution. NOTE: I'm no longer updating the spreadsheet.Here are the quarterly changes and a few comments from surferdude808: Regulators still haven't disclosed the "whale" (that added close to $120 billion to problem assets). Burkina Faso's military junta leader, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, who was ousted in a coup on Friday, has agreed to step down after allegations of failed response to the region's security concerns. Religious and community leaders said that the country's new self-declared leader, Capt. Ibrahim Traore had Damiba's resignation and the conditions he had set. The announcement of the move followed attacks on French institutions after reports that Damiba was sheltering at a French military base. Burkina Faso's Military Junta Leader The ousting of Damiba is the second coup this year in the region, the first was where the official replaced his predecessor. In both cases, the country's dire security situation and failure to address an Islamist insurgency were cited as the reasons for the takeovers. Burkina Faso is in control of as little as 60% of its territory, experts say, and Islamist violence is considered to be worsening. The African Union had previously demanded the return of constitutional order by July 2023 at the latest, agreeing with the regional group Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) that the ousting of Damiba was "unconstitutional," as per BBC. Earlier, ECOWAS said that it was "inappropriate" for army rebels to take control when the country was already working towards the civilian rule. On the other hand, despite his announcement, Damiba has not yet addressed the issue directly. Religious and community leaders said that Damiba's resignation was made "in order to avoid confrontations with serious human and material consequences." They added that the official had set seven conditions for stepping down, which includes a guarantee of his security, an agreement to continue with efforts at national reconciliation, and continued respect for the guarantee of returning to civilian rule within two years. According to France24, on Sunday, security forces fired tear gas at dozens of rock-throwing protesters outside the French embassy in the country's capital. The chaos at Ouagadougou was a result of accusations that Damiba was planning a counteroffensive to fight the coup. Read Also: Nord Stream Pipeline Leak: NATO Chief Doubles Down on 'Sabotage' Claims, Sends Warning to Attackers Second Coup in a Year In a statement broadcast on national television, an army officer said that they wanted to inform the population that the situation was under control and order was being restored following the unrest. France, which is the former colonial power in Burkina Faso, denied "any involvement" in the coup. It also denied that "Burkinabe authorities have been hosted or are under the protection of the French military." Damiba, in a written statement on the presidency's official Facebook page, urged his rivals to "come to their senses to avoid a fratricidal war that Burkina Faso doesn't need." Traore was officially named the head of state after he accepted Damiba's conditions, calling on the population to exercise calm, restraint, and prayer. On Sunday, the pro-Traore military issued a statement saying that the military leader would remain in charge until the swearing-in of the president of Burkina Faso was designated by the region's active forces at an unspecified date. The chaos at the region's capital also prompted new military spokesman Captain Kiswendsida Farouk Azaria Sorgho to call on the people of the nation to desist from any act of violence and vandalism, especially those toward the French embassy or the French military base, Aljazeera reported. Related Article: Japanese Pro Wrestler-Turned-Politician Antonio Inoki Dies; Wrestling Stars Honor Wrestling Legend @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. "Death to America" chants were heard across the highest Iranian governing body, serving as another example of the pro-regime fervor that still exists in the nation despite the expansion of demonstrations asking for the Islamic republic to be overthrown. In a video shared on social media, members of the Iranian Consultative Assembly congregate in the middle of the assembly room and raise their fists while chanting together. Protests in Iran Over Young Woman's Death Continue When asked for death to the opposition, they first declare themselves ready before quickly switching to death to Israel, death to America. Despite efforts by the Biden administration to give the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or Iran nuclear deal, first priority even at the sacrifice of human rights, the feeling suggests another reason why it continues to fail. Last month, State Secretary Antony Blinken stated that negotiations had stepped backward from where they had been and that it was still uncertain whether the two countries would reach any sort of agreement. As Iran deals with widespread protests following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, tensions between the US and Iran have gotten worse. It becomes even less likely that the countries will find any common ground for a nuclear deal after Tehran stated that the US and other countries incited the protests for their own benefit, as per Fox News. Mahsa Amini, 22, died on September 16 while she was still being held in detention by Iranian morality police after being detained in Tehran because they believed she was wearing her headscarf too loosely. The Iran Human Rights (IHR) organization said that at least 92 people have died as protests entered their third week today. The enemies of Iran, according to President Ebrahim Raisi, failed in their conspiracy. Read Also: Japanese Pro Wrestler-Turned-Politician Antonio Inoki Dies; Wrestling Stars Honor Wrestling Legend Protestors Receive no Message From Iran's Leader Following the first outbreak of violence in the western areas, which are home to Amini and Iran's Kurdish minority, clashes between protestors and security forces have shaken cities around the nation for 16 nights in a row. Conflicts in Iran's far southeast, close to the borders with Afghanistan and Pakistan, claimed the lives of another 41 people on Friday, according to IHR. The allegations that a police chief in the area had abused a teenage girl from the Baluch Sunni minority were alleged to be what prompted those riots, as per Daily Mail. At least 92 demonstrators and police have died since the rallies started on September 17, according to Iranian state television. Fourteen people were reported dead according to official government statements obtained by the Associated Press, and more than 1,500 protesters were detained. The statewide protests, which have now spread to Iran's 31 provinces, have received no comments from the country's highest authority, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. A probe into Amini's passing has been mandated by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, VOA News reported. Related Article: Joe Biden Makes Drastic Change on Student Loan Forgiveness That Could Hurt Over 700,000 Borrowers: What Happened? @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The hackers responsible for the cyberattack on the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) released sensitive information after officials refused to pay the criminals' ransom demand. In a Twitter post, LAUSD Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said that, unfortunately, data was released online by a criminal organization. He added that they were partnering with law enforcement to determine the full extent of the data breach. LAUSD Cyberattack Authorities have set up a hotline to assist people who have questions or need support in relation to the data release. The supposed criminal act came after federal officials warned that ransomware attacks on United States schools may rise as children return to educational establishments and cybercriminals see more extortion opportunities. Thank you to our students, families and employees for doing their part in the ongoing recovery from this cyberattack. pic.twitter.com/K8VhiFmSbL Alberto M. Carvalho (@LAUSDSup) October 2, 2022 In a previous statement, the LAUSD said that it was working with law enforcement to determine what type of information was impacted and to whom it belonged. However, the district did not disclose whether or not it was aware of what data may be released or when, as per CNN. The school district announced what it considered a significant ransomware attack over Labor Day weekend last month. This came along with the response from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Officials have not disclosed the ransom demanded by the criminal organization responsible for the recent attack. The hack was the 50th recorded this year that targeted the US education sector, based on a tally by cybersecurity firm Emsisoft. However, Carvalho noted that the criminal organization's demand, or any demand, would be absurd, according to Fox News. But he noted that the level of demand was insulting to the school district. The official noted that they would not enter into negotiations with that type of entity. On Friday, the district reiterated its pledge that dollars "must be used to fund students and education" and not be used as "capitulating to a nefarious and illicit crime syndicate." LAUSD first detected the ransomware attack early in September and noted that it was a significant attack. Previously, the group that claimed responsibility for the cyberattack on the school district set an initial Monday deadline for the ransom. In a dark web post that was detected and reprinted by Brett Callow of Emsisoft, the hacking syndicate Vice Society listed the LAUSD as one of "our partners," ABC7 reported. Read Also: Hurricane Ian Death Toll: 54 Confirmed Dead, Floridians Panicking Over Food and Water Supply Growing Threat of Online Crime The crime comes as the White House released a statement last month during Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Officials said they wanted to highlight the importance of safeguarding the nation's critical infrastructure from the malicious cyber activity and protecting citizens and businesses from ransomware and other attacks. Authorities also noted that they were raising awareness about the simple steps that Americans can take in order to ensure that their sensitive data is secure and stay safe online. The White House wrote that cyberattacks affect people's day-to-day lives, the economy, and national security. The statement said that cyberattacks, by destroying, corrupting, or stealing information, are able to impact electric grids and fuel pipelines, hospitals, and police departments, businesses and schools, and many other critical services. Related Article: Florida Governor DeSantis Warns Criminals of Consequences If They Prey on Hurricane Ian Victims @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. 'We do not recognize and will never recognize Russian attempts to annex any Ukrainian territory,' say presidents of 9 countries ISTANBUL (AA) - The presidents of nine countries in central and eastern Europe on Sunday condemned Russia's illegal annexation of four breakaway Ukrainian regions. "We reiterate our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We do not recognize and will never recognize Russian attempts to annex any Ukrainian territory," said a joint statement by the presidents of the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. Underlining that they "cannot stay silent in the face of the blatant violation of international law by the Russian Federation," the leaders found to "firmly stand behind the 2008 Bucharest NATO Summit decision concerning Ukraine's future membership." In the statement, released by the Polish preisdency, they demanded that Moscow immediately withdraw from all occupied territories and encouraged allies to substantially increase their military aid to Kyiv. "All those who commit crimes of aggression must be held accountable and brought to justice," they stressed. Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier on Friday announced the annexation of four Ukrainian regions following highly disputed referendums that have been denounced by the West as a "sham." The territories amount to more than 90,000 square kilometers (34,749 square miles), or nearly 15% of Ukraines total area. Seda Sevencan/AA NASA and SpaceX are looking into sending Crew Dragon for an orbital boost that would increase the operational life of the Hubble Space Telescope. Hubble, which has logged more than 30 years in orbit in its quest to study the mysteries of the universe, could have longer working life depending on NASA's findings. NASA and SpaceX, alongside private astronaut Jared Isaacman, hosted a media teleconference on Thursday. Boosting Hubble's Operational Life During that teleconference, the parties involved announced a feasibility study that would investigate the plausibility of sending a commercial Dragon spacecraft to re-boost the space telescope. It would place Hubble into a higher and more stable orbit compared to the one that it is currently in. The research will come at no cost to the government, as there are no plans for NASA to conduct or fund a servicing mission to compete with this opportunity. Authorities added that the study is designed to help the space agency understand the commercial possibilities. It is expected to take up to six months and will prioritize determining whether or not it would be technically possible for a Crew Dragon to "safely rendezvous, dock, and move the telescope into a more stable orbit," as per CNET. Despite the announcement, none of the teleconference participants laid out detailed plans on what a Hubble boost mission would look like. Furthermore, they did not provide information on whether the mission would actually require a crew to be on board the spacecraft. The announcement came as Hubble's orbit has slowly been decaying over time, with Hubble project manager Patrick Crouse saying that the observatory has already dropped roughly 19 miles since its last servicing mission in 2009. According to SciTechDaily, while the Hubble Space Telescope and Dragon spacecraft will serve as the mission's test models, portions of the concept may be applicable to other spacecraft, particularly satellites in a near-Earth orbit similar to Hubble. Read Also: Rippling Energies Throbbing in the Milky Way Galaxy Is Suspected by Astronomers Happening Like Clock Work Hubble Space Telescope Crouse added that there is a roughly 50% chance that the Hubble would re-enter Earth's atmosphere in 2037 if nothing is done. NASA already hopes that the observatory will remain operational through the end of this decade, but boosting it could add years more to its operational life. The vice president of Customer Operations & Integration at SpaceX, Jessica Jensen, said that the company and the Polaris Program, of which Isaacman is a part, want to expand the boundaries of current technology. They are looking to explore how commercial partnerships can creatively solve challenging, complex problems. Jensen noted that missions, such as servicing Hubble, would help experts expand space capabilities that would ultimately benefit all of humanity in achieving its goals of becoming a space-faring, multi-planetary civilization. On the other hand, NASA Associate Administrator for science, Thomas Zurbuchen, said during the teleconference that they want to know more about the possibilities that could result from the mission. Commercial partnerships have opened the door to new and exciting opportunities for the space agency's science and tech exploration by offering new ideas and innovative ways to support them, Space News reported. Related Article: NASA DART Mission: Hubble, Webb Telescopes Capture Exact Moment Spacecraft Hits Asteroid @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. It looks like there is no letting up to the MG-Geely rivalry here in the Philippines. Its shaping up to be a true battle royale as MG Phili... Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole on October 3 said that the Central Government has brought Cheetahs to spread the lumpy skin disease in India. He claimed that the Centre has deliberately brought Cheetahs from Nigeria for the losses of farmers. Notably, the eight Cheetahs were brought from Namibia (which Patole called Nigeria) and were released into Kuno National Park last month, whereas the outbreak of the lumpy skin disease was reported in India three months ago. The big cats were released into the national park as part of the Centres efforts to revitalise and diversify the countrys wildlife and its habitat. While giving the bizarre statement, the Maharashtra Congress chief made many blunders, such as the time period of the lumy skin disease in India, calling Namibia Nigeria, (name of the country from where Cheetahs were brought), and connecting cheetahs with the lumpy skin disease. Patole also confidently said that the big cats are from Nigeria and they have been brought as part of a conspiracy against the farmers. Watch the video here. Two people have been accused of assault after a man heckling Prince Andrew during the Queen's funeral procession in Edinburgh was knocked to the ground. Prince Andrew was verbally insulted on September 12 as he walked behind his mother's casket down the Royal Mile, and after witnesses intervened, police opened an investigation. Heckler Verbally Abuses Prince Andrew After being removed by police, the 22-year-old protester who was captured on camera heckling the Duke of York was charged with a breach of peace. He was then released on a promise to appear in court later. However, Police Scotland has now revealed that two other men, both 34, are now anticipated to appear in court as a result of their detention and accusations. Two men, both 34, have been charged with assault following an altercation on the Royal Mile on September 12 according to a force spokesperson. As their mother's casket made its final journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles' Cathedral, Prince Andrew walked behind his three siblings, King Charles, Princess Anne, and the Earl of Wessex. He wore a morning suit because military garb was not permitted for the event. Due to his contentious association with the deceased US millionaire Jeffrey Epstein, who committed suicide while awaiting prosecution on allegations of sex trafficking, the 62-year-old retired from royal duties in 2019. The Duke of York mostly retired from public life after reaching an out-of-court settlement with his sexual assault victim Virginia Roberts earlier this year. He always refuted Roberts' claims that he abused her sexually when she was 17 and being trafficked by his pal Epstein. But before the matter got to a US civil trial, he and Roberts reached a settlement early this year, as per Daily Mail. Social media users commented on the police response to the detention of a few protestors earlier this month, calling it heavy-handed. Prime Minister Liz Truss's spokeswoman declined to comment on practical policing choices but insisted that the right to protest was a basic value. We know some people want to protest on a range of issues during this time of national mourning, a spokesman for the National Police Chiefs' Council said the day after the incident involving the Duke of York. Officers must balance these rights against those who wish to grieve and reflect, the spokesman added, according to Express. Read Also: King Charles III's 'Love Child' Reveals Last Letter to Queen Elizabeth, Days After Leaking Camilla's Alleged Pregnancy Photo Intruder Pretended as Prince Andrew's Fiancee in November 2021 Security personnel at Windsor were supposedly so terrified of Prince Andrew that they permitted a lady posing as his fiancee to enter the Royal Lodge grounds without first consulting him. The con artist, who was in her 40s, appeared at the security gate in November of last year and claimed to have a dinner date with the Duke of York. Despite not having an ID, the Spanish national was admitted without being stopped or questioned; according to reports, staff members even paid for her taxi fare. Before suspicion was aroused and police were called, she walked around the property for up to 40 minutes before going inside the Grade II-listed Lodge. The 62-year-old Prince Andrew is rumored to have been out at the time. The intruder was taken into custody on burglary allegations and later placed in a mental health section. Maps of the land and other Royal residences were in her luggage, along with a self-defense tool. According to Thames Valley Police, she was later let go without being charged. At the yearly International Protection Expo held at Kensington Olympia, Grindell, the founder of the celebrity and VIP security service Defuse, was giving a speech. The private security at Royal Lodge is funded by the Privy Purse, and Andrew's police protection was scaled back when he departed his role in 2020. Former Met royal security officer Paul Page claims to have had similar interactions with female visitors as Andrew. Staff workers, he claimed, were always too terrified to inquire about unidentified female visitors since doing so would always result in him angrily abusing them, Mirror reported. Related Article: Prince Harry Meghan Markle Decide To Delay, Edit Netflix Series as Sussexes Fear They're Being Edged Out of Royal Family @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Chinese cement producers welcome construction boost ICR Newsroom By 03 October 2022 Manufacturing activity in China has returned to growth with the countrys purchasing managers index for the manufacturing sector coming in at 50.1 in September, compared to 49.4 in the previous month, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Any reading above 50 indicates expansion. The growth comes on the back of an easing of COVID-19 restrictions, recovering domestic demand and a package of macroeconomic stimulus policies. The government's recent steps to stabilise prices, ease enterprises' burdens and enhance financial support are conducive to alleviating the pressure of high costs on manufacturers, and the sector will likely expand at a faster pace in the following months, according to Zhou Maohua, analyst at China Everbright Bank. Chinas construction sector has also continued to expand with the subindex for business activities in the construction sector coming in at 60.2 in September, up by 3.7 points compared to the previous month. Growth in infrastructure investment has sped up for two consecutive months, and the country has accelerated the push to promote the construction of key projects through offering financial guarantees, which will play a vital role in boosting effective demand, reported Maohua Zhou. This will come as welcome news to Chinas cement producers who saw a 15 per cent YoY fall in production to 977Mt in the opening half of 2022, the largest decline in over 20 years, according to the World Cement Association. The impact has been felt by some of the countrys leading cement producers with Anhui Conch Cement and China Resources Cement both seeing their shares drop by more than a third so far this year. Published under The National Civil Rights Museum in the Bluff City in West Tennessee recently unveiled an exhibition highlighting the often forgotten Rosenwald Schools built for African American students in the 20th Century. It is named after a board member of the Tuskegee Institute (Tuskegee Normal School) that was created as a school to train black African American teachers. Julius Rosenwald was born in 1862 to German Jewish immigrants and was a highly successful businessman who amassed great wealth by building Sears Roebuck and Company into a national chain of successful department stores that had been founded in 1892 and reincorporated in 1906 by Richard Sears and Rosenwald. Almost 5,000 single-room schools for minorities during segregation under the separate but equal doctrine were built but only about 500 survived the Brown v. Topeka Board of Education decision by the United States Supreme Court that eventually ended segregation. Local writer Jennifer Crutchfield in an article Rosenwald Schools in Chattanooga, Tennessee, describes the eight Hamilton County schools built under the program as a member of the National Park Partners and makes reference under that title on YouTube. It covers a talk on the subject by Dr. Dorothy Canter as part of the Moccasin Bend Lecture Series from a national perspective. Of that number only about half have been restored and in 2002 the National Trust for Historic Preservation named the Rosenwald School as one of the most endangered historic places in the nation. During the segregation era many schools were erected in the Volunteer state under threats of violence and delaying tactics in construction. The Canaan School in Columbia had one teacher who taught eight grades with discarded books from the white students of Maury County in one of the 15 black schools. With the support of the Rosenwald Fund the existing estimate was that approximately 250-375 schools in Tennessee were constructed. In Memphis, the Brooks Avenue School was one of around 60 Rosenwald Schools in Shelby County. The last classes held at the school were around 1958. It would be one of three Rosenwald Schools in southwest Memphis. According to an article in the Memphis Commercial Appeal on August 24, 2022, a reunion for Brooks Avenue graduates was to be held at Riverside Missionary Church on Aug. 28 in Memphis at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis that established after the death of Martin Luther King, Jr. hosting a photo exhibit on the Rosenwald School that would be on display until Jan. 2, 2023. The preservation of the Memphis Rosenwald School as a part of Southern Black History as well as all American History with both the good and bad of both the South and North should be critical in maintaining Democracy. (The Spanish philosopher, George Santayanas famous quote of Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it is still viable)! * * * You can reach Jerry Summers at jsummers@summersfirm.com) The clerk at Murphy gas station at 5716 Highway 153 told police she was opening up and found a man asleep on the toilet. The officer woke the man and had him gather his belongings. He left without issue. * * * A man on E. 23rd Street told police while he was waiting for his girlfriend to get off work he was approached by an older black male. The man said the older man tried to open his car door but the man said he got out of the vehicle and asked him what he was doing. The older man then stepped back and reached in his pocket like he had a firearm, got inside an unknown vehicle and left, traveling west on E. 23rd Street. * * * A woman on Appling Street called police and said someone entered her unlocked 2005 Chrysler and stole two purses and the contents of them. * * * While on another call at 216 Market St., a homeless man came up to an officer and gave him a key to a vehicle that was parked in front of Jacks liquor store. He said he found the key behind the vehicle and didn't want someone to steal the car. The officer ran the registration and found an owner. The officer went to the owners residence to try and locate them and the current resident said the owner had moved out a couple months ago and didnt have a forwarding address. The key was taken to Property. * * * An unknown person called police to report a homeless man sleeping in the bushes behind Fuji at 2207 Overnite Dr. Police spoke with the man who said he was just hanging around. Police told him he needed to move along after verifying he had no active warrants. He left without issue. * * * The maintenance man at Midtown Ridge Apartments at 312 McBrien Road told police there was a man lying on the second floor carpet. He didnt recognize the man and wanted him trespassed. Police spoke with the man who said he was just charging his phone. His girlfriend came outside and said he was staying with her. * * * A man working at Woodbridge Foam Fabricating at 1120 Judd Road told police his 2020 Chevrolet Equinox was damaged. He was at work when this damage occurred, and after lunch he went to get in his vehicle and noticed his shattered rear windshield. He doesn't know for sure what happened, but he said the lawn service guys may have accidentally slung a rock with their lawn equipment and busted it. The damage was determined to be accidental and he needed a report for insurance purposes. * * * Police responded to a disorder at Rib & Loin at 5435 Highway 153. Police spoke with a man who said he just quit his job at Rib & Loin and was leaving the property. Police also spoke with the manager who said the man was causing a verbal disturbance in the restaurant because he had been let go. The manager just wanted the man to leave the property. The man was told by police that the manager wanted him to leave and he left with no further incidents. * * * Police were called to Tiger Market at 3725 Jenkins Road. A woman had officially been trespassed from the location due to her disorderly conduct and was refusing to leave when staff asked her to. This trespass report was requested by Tiger Market staff. * * * An officer saw a silver VW Passat without a tag on W. 12th Street. Additionally, the windows were tinted extremely dark and the seats were laid back, which is often what is seen from stolen vehicles. The officer ran the VIN which came back on a tan VW Passat that had not been registered for over a year to a person from Atlanta. * * * * A woman at 4758 Hwy. 58 told police someone damaged her vehicle while it was parked. She said the passenger side quarter panel and rear bumper were damaged. There were scratches, dents, parts of the bumper pulled off and the taillight was cracked. * * * An employee at Salmas at 2100 Hamilton Place Blvd. told police they allowed two men to try on a necklace and a bracelet. The employee said the two men then ran from the store and exited the mall through the Belk entrance. He chased after the suspects who jumped into a white car and fled. The employee said the suspects were two black males, and he had pictures and video of both. The stolen necklace was a 20ct tricolor gold Miami/Cuban with several diamonds. The bracelet was a matching 10ct tricolor Miami/Cuban with several diamonds. The necklace was worth around $159,000 and the bracelet was worth around $80,000. Mall security said the suspects got into a white KIA Optima with a temp tag, and it appeared to be driven by a third party. Police put out a BOLO for the suspect vehicle. Police contacted a Property Crimes investigator who responded to further the investigation. Police checked the area but were unable to locate any possible suspects. Elvis Eghosa Ogiekpolor has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering after being convicted at trial. Ogiekpolor opened and directed others to open at least 50 fraudulent business bank accounts that received over $9.5 million dollars from various online frauds, including romance frauds and business email compromise scams. He then laundered the fraud proceeds using other accounts, including dozens of accounts overseas. Ogiekpolor and his co-conspirators were part of a broader international network of online fraudsters and money launderers who wreaked havoc and devastation on unsuspecting individuals and businesses, said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. This case demonstrates our offices unrelenting commitment to hold accountable those who prey on the vulnerabilities of victims and seek to exploit our nations banking system. There is no way we can make the victims of Ogiekpolor and this network whole again, but we hope this sentence will at least give them solace that people are being held accountable, said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. The FBI makes it a top priority to investigate these cyber-crimes and the greedy criminals behind them. According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Beginning in at least October 2018 and continuing until August 2020, Ogiekpolor directed at least eight so-called money mules - including six who testified against him at trial - to open more than 50 fraudulent business bank accounts in Georgia in the names of a dozen sham companies. The sham companies did not occupy physical premises, earn legitimate income, or pay wages to employees. Ogiekpolor instructed the money mules to open multiple accounts at once and, if one bank closed an account for suspected fraud or other suspicious activity, to simply open additional fraudulent accounts at different banks. Ogiekpolor then provided the accounts to other co-conspirators to receive the proceeds from multiple romance frauds, BEC scams, and other frauds impacting dozens of victims in the U.S. and elsewhere, as well as multiple businesses. Romance scams are a type of online fraud in which victims are targeted by individuals posing as potential paramours. The fraudsters create fake online dating profiles (often with photographs of attractive men or women) and use these fake personas to express strong romantic interest in the victims to entice them into sending money under false pretenses. Romance scams frequently target vulnerable individuals who possess significant financial assets, such as retired widows or widowers. In Ogiekpolors case, unsuspecting victims would typically wire funds directly into one of his fraudulent accounts, or mail checks or cash to Ogiekpolors money mules in Georgia. Once the fraud proceeds posted to his accounts, Ogiekpolor laundered the funds, including wiring hundreds of thousands of dollars to overseas accounts, and withdrawing substantial amounts in cash and cashiers checks. Multiple romance fraud victims, mainly women, testified at trial. The victims recounted how they met male strangers online and were soon convinced they were in a romantic relationship with the men, even though the victims were in communication with the individuals for months without meeting in person. Often these men claimed they wanted to start a life with the victims and were eager to live with them as soon as some kind of issue was resolved. For example, one romance fraud victim was convinced to wire $32,000 to one of the accounts Ogiekpolor controlled because her boyfriend (one of the men online) claimed a part of his oil rig needed to be replaced but that his bank account was frozen. This victim borrowed against her retirement and savings to provide the funds, which ultimately required her to refinance her home to pay back the loan. Another victim testified that she was convinced to send nearly $70,000 because the man she met on eHarmony claimed to need money to promptly make payment on several invoices due to a frozen bank account. The 13 romance fraud victims who testified at trial represented just a small number of such victims who were defrauded into sending money to Ogiekpolors accounts. BEC scams also commonly involve an employee of a company who has been fooled into responding to email messages that appear to be, but are not, legitimate (spoof emails). At trial, the jury heard from several businesses - representing just a small sample of the total number of companies defrauded - who had been victimized by spoof emails. In each case, the victim-business believed it was making a payment, often several hundreds of thousands of dollars, to a long-standing vendor only to subsequently learn that they had been tricked into sending the money to an account controlled by Ogiekpolor and thereby defrauded. In addition to Ogiekpolor, several of his co-conspirators have been convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering in connection with this case, including: Vere Whyte, 35, of Stone Mountain, Georgia, who pleaded guilty on November 15, 2021; Kutina Crawford, 49, of Lithonia, Georgia, who pleaded guilty on May 2, 2022; Ebony Parks, 28, of Jonesboro, Georgia, who pleaded guilty on May 11, 2022; Tiffany Gaines, 42, of Conyers, Georgia, who pleaded guilty on May 16, 2022; and Tamara Gaines, 48, of Conyers, Georgia, who pleaded guilty on July 11, 2022. Ogiekpolor, 46, of Norcross, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge William M. Ray, II,. The Court will schedule a hearing for a later date at which time it will determine the amount of restitution that Ogiekpolor owes. He was charged by a federal grand jury in February 2022 with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and 15 counts of substantive money laundering. A federal jury convicted him of these charges on May 31, 2022, following an eight-day trial. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Georgia is part of the Department of Justice Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force. The Strike Force focuses on investigating and prosecuting defendants associated with foreign-based fraud schemes that disproportionately affect American seniors. These include romance scams, phone scams, mass-mailing fraud schemes, and tech-support fraud schemes. For further information on these scams, see https://www.justice.gov/ elderjustice/senior-scam-alert . This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex R. Sistla and Radka T. Nations prosecuted the case. The past two months have seen the addition of three staff and four board members to The Speech & Hearing Centers ranks. On staff, this includes an audiologist, bilingual speech-language pathologist and director of development. On the board, members have joined from Chattanooga Fire Department, Hamilton County Schools, First Horizon Bank and CHI Memorial. Its an exciting time for the Center, said Taylor Bostwick, president and CEO. We turn 70 next year and are starting to think about what we want our next 70 years to look like. Were getting the right team in place, so we can continue to meet the needs of the community and provide equitable access to specialized healthcare for all. Learn more about the new team members: Dr. Gretchen Switzer, Au.D., CCC-A Audiologist Dr. Gretchen Switzer drove more than 2,000 miles in an RV with her family from Coeur dAlene, Idaho to be part of the Centers team. She is a graduate of the University of South Alabama, where she earned her Doctor of Audiology, and has been in practice for more than 16 years. Dr. Switzers experience extends from working with newborns to supporting seniors along their hearing journeys. Rebecca Winkler, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist Rebecca Winkler is a bilingual speech-language pathologist who enjoys helping children of all ages improve their ability to communicate and provides therapy in both English and Spanish. In addition to spoken language, Ms. Winkler is passionate about reading and has over 10 years of experience providing literacy intervention for struggling readers. Sandy Zabel Director of Development Sandy Zabel has worked as an accountant, a financial analyst and a small business owner. Most recently, she helped shape the development department of Northside Neighborhood House; planning events, cultivating donor relationships and educating the community. Shelly Killian Board Treasurer Commercial Banking Relationship Manager, Senior Vice President, First Horizon Bank Shelly Killian has served in a variety at First Horizon of roles since 2008. She is a former member of the Downtown Sertoma Club, where she helped raise awareness and supported The Speech & Hearing Center through a variety of fundraising events. After the birth of her second child, she realized just how much impact the services provided by the Center can make in a persons life. Her son began speech and occupational therapy in 2021, which has helped him tremendously. While shes been able to see firsthand what a difference it can make in a child, she has also seen how expensive these services are. Thats why she wholeheartedly supports the Centers mission of ensuring every person has access, regardless of cost. Joey Thomas, NREMT, JD, MPH Board Member Lieutenant, Engine Company 4, Chattanooga Fire Department Joey Thomas has been at the Chattanooga Fire Department for the past 10 years. During this time, he also served as a social worker in North Georgia and as a court appointed special advocate for the Hamilton County Juvenile Court. His interests include harnessing innovative health policy to improve Chattanoogas healthcare delivery systems through public and private partnerships. He's a current JA Henry YMCA Branch board member and is a graduate of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerces Protege program. Melissa White Board Member Physical Therapist and Director of Rehabilitation Services, Diabetes/Nutrition and Weight Management Centers, CHI Memorial Healthcare System Melissa White has worked at CHI Memorial for more than a decade. She is actively involved in the Junior League of Chattanooga and also serves on the UTC Chi Omegas House Corporation Board. She is passionate about servant leadership, program and people development, envisioning, collaboration, operations management and project oversight, strategic planning and community impact. Christopher Cooper Board Member Routing Dispatcher, Hamilton County Schools Christopher Coopers passion is to leave the world and everyone in it better than they were when he arrived. Hes previously been a police dispatcher for the Hamilton County 9-1-1 Emergency Communications District and is now a routing dispatcher for Hamilton County Schools. His volunteer record is extensive. Hes served as a mentor for Tennessee Achieves, Tennessee Reconnect and Big Brothers for Big Brothers of Greater Chattanooga. He is the president of the Lookout Valley Neighborhood Watch and a member of the leadership for First Things Firsts Dads Making a Difference. He is also an alumnus of and volunteer for the Chattanooga Police Citizen Academy. The Speech & Hearing Center is Chattanoogas only nonprofit medical practice that focuses on improving quality of life through better communication by providing audiology, speech, occupational and physical therapy services to individuals of all ages and income. The Dalton Police Department arrested a fugitive Monday morning who had previously been involved in police chases in Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. Ernest Paul Shackelford, 50, was arrested Monday at the Walmart on Shugart Road after a citizen recognized him from social media posts. On Sunday, at approximately 11:15 p.m., Dalton Police officers were given a lookout for a stolen vehicle that had been involved in multiple police pursuits in Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. Officers were informed that the driver, Shackleford, may be in the Dalton area in the stolen 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. Officers were also informed that Shackleford was considered armed and dangerous and wanted for assault on a police officer in Loudon, Tn. Officers located the vehicle at the Econolodge on North Tibbs Road and began an investigation. A room number was located for Shackleford and with the assistance of the Georgia State Patrol SWAT team, an attempt to locate the suspect in the room was made. Shackleford was not located inside the room and officers began to check the surrounding area. The stolen vehicle was recovered and impounded for the agency of responsibility in Ohio. At approximately 10:45 a.m., the Dalton Police Department received information that the suspect was inside the Wal-Mart store on Shugart Road. Officers responded to the area and after a short foot pursuit, Shackleford was taken into custody and transported to the Whitfield County Sheriffs Office and charged with bringing stolen property into the state and obstruction of an officer. Its been some time since The Real Housewives of Potomac star Ashley Darby announced her split from her husband, Michael. The mother of two married the wealthy businessman, who is 29 years her senior, nearly a decade ago. While fans will get an inside look at Ashleys journey to divorce, she recently admitted that shes unsure whether she wants to go through with it. Michael Darby and Ashley Darby smile for photo | Brian Stukes/Getty Images The couple announced their split in a statement to Bravo Ashley and Michaels marriage has been riddled with controversy from the start. In addition to a huge age gap, infidelity and questions surrounding Michaels sexuality have plagued their marriage. There were also issues with business when they co-owned a Virginia restaurant together, and Michaels uncomfortability with financially caring for Ashleys able-bodied mother. Source: YouTube This past Spring, the pair announced they were legally separating and heading to divorce. People will be quick to assume that the causes were too much intrusion by reality TV into the most personal parts of our lives, age gap issues, cultural problems, or child-rearing differences, she said, admitting that pieces of all these may have affected our pure love for each other, but no one reason is the root cause of our mutual decision to go our separate ways, Ashley confirmed in a statement to Bravo Insider. According to insiders, a buildup of issues contributed to their breakup. Theyve been having serious problems for about a year now, a source revealed. Theres been a visceral disconnect between them as a couple. For Ashley, the inconsistencies within the relationship and trust issues led to the split. She admits shes hesitant to move forward in divorce finalization Ashley recently spoke with media outlets regarding how shes processing the split now that some time has passed. She says things remain difficult, and she questions whether shes making the right decision, especially because the two have small children. I thought it would get easier, but its been about six months now, and its still so hard, she said, as The Jasmine Brand reports. Theres some moments of missing our relationship, and when I see him being a really good dad, its like, Oh man, could I? Should I? because he is still a great dad and a hands-on parent, and thats what I find so attractive about him. Source: YouTube Whether or not the two actually go through with things has yet to be determined, as Virginia law, where she filed paperwork, requires one full year of separation before a judge will sign off on the divorce. Still, she hasnt thought about moving on with another partner. When I was dating before Michael, there was no online dating the whole landscape looked so different and honestly its petrifying now, she explained. The stories I hear and all these wolves in sheeps clothing. Im definitely going very, very snail-paced slow. Im a little scared. Their separation will play out in Season 7 of RHOP Season 7 of the show premieres on Bravo on Oct. 9, and much of the show will chronicle how Ashley moves forward amid the split. In the trailer, her co-stars question whether shes ready to move on, as she reveals that she is buying a home with Michael. The couple lived in a condo in Virginia throughout their 8-year marriage, and they currently remain in the same home despite being separated. RELATED: RHOP: How the Cast and Crew Feel About Michael and Ashley Darbys Sexually Fluid Relationship Ringo Starr Had to Beg During His Early Days as a Drummer, but He Made Sure Other Drummers Didnt Have To Every musicians journey starts somewhere. For Ringo Starr, his path to being a drummer started in a hospital. The kit man for The Beatles spent time in and out of hospitals as a youngster, a trying time he relived during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. One of the facilities he stayed at brought percussion instruments to the patients, and Ringo took a shine to banging away. Before he became the impressively skilled drummer we all know and love, Ringo had to beg for favors during his early days, but he made sure to pay it back. Ringo Starr | PA Images via Getty Images Two twists of fate helped Ringo join The Beatles Ringos drumming talent led to him playing in several skiffle groups in Liverpool, England, before he hooked up with his first band. Rory Storm and the Hurricanes performed residencies in Hamburg, Germany, just like The Beatles did. As most music fans know, Ringo didnt remain with Rory Storm. Fate intervened twice and helped him join The Beatles. First, Rory Storm and the Hurricanes were scheduled to play on a bill with Eddie Cochran. They missed their chance because of Cochrans tragic death, and it might have saved The Beatles as we know them. Fate intervened a second time when Beatles manager Brian Epstein asked Ringo to join the band for an early show in Hamburg. Ringo agreed, nailed a tricky drum part that proved to Paul McCartney he was the perfect drummer for The Beatles, and started playing with the Fab Four in short order. Before any of that happened, though, Ringo had to beg during his early days as a drummer, but he paid it forward when his fortunes changed. Ringo Starr had to beg during his early days as a drummer, but he made sure others didnt have to RELATED: Ringo Starr Once Revealed the Lucky Way The Beatles Got on the Ed Sullivan Show, and He Was Right About How it Changed Their Career Before joining a hall of fame the other Beatles had no shot at entering, the former Richard Starkey cut his teeth playing gigs around Liverpool. However, Ringo had to beg before he took the stage for many of those concerts, writes Michael Seth Starr in the biography With a Little Help: It was very difficult for a drummer in those days. Id take the snare drums to the gigs, and I begged a drummer who drove his whole kit there. Lets use your kit, man. Id use my snare and his kit. Sometimes he said, Yes, and sometimes he said, No. And then, when I did get a car and would be able to take my kit to the venues, other drummers would ask me, Can I use your kit, man? and I said, Sure. Ringo Starr describes how he had to beg to share drum kits during his early days Guitarists have it easy. They can unplug, pack up their instrument into a relatively slim case, and travel to a gig. Drummers, even those using a spartan kit with a snare, bass drum, floor tom, high tom, and a couple of cymbals, dont have that luxury. Ringo eventually could afford any kit he wanted and had the means to take it with him anywhere, including a maple wood set that gave him a reason to love the Abbey Road sessions. But when he started out, he couldnt afford to haul his entire kit to shows. It could have been lost, stolen, or broken. So Ringo begged his more well-equipped counterparts to share their kits. However, he made sure to pay it forward and let other drummers use his skins without hesitation. He never stopped letting other drummers get in on the action RELATED: Ringo Starr Was the Most Approachable of The Beatles Since He Didnt Have Any Pretense Like John and Paul, 1 Musician Once Said Ringo had to beg other drummers to share their kits when he was an up-and-comer, but there was no shame in it for him. He knew he wanted to be a professional musician and would do whatever it took to make that dream come true. He freely shared his kit with Liverpool timekeepers back in the day, but Ringo never stopped sharing the spotlight with other drummers. Every iteration of Ringos All-Starr Band has included at least one other drummer sharing the stage with The Beatles legend. Gregg Bissonette has been part of every All-Starr band since 2008. Levon Helm (from The Band), Simon Kirke (Bad Company, Free), Sheila E., and Zak Starkey (The Whos current touring drummer) have also joined the All-Starr bands in the past. Ringo Starr had to beg to share drum kits when he was still a fledgling timekeeper. He made sure others drummers didnt have to do the same thing. For more on the entertainment world and exclusive interviews, subscribe to Showbiz Cheat Sheets YouTube channel. RELATED: Ringo Starr Once Revealed How He Kept Failing at Being Like Frank Sinatra: I Havent Made it Yet Glass Expansion has been manufacturing sample introduction components for ICP emission and mass spectrometers since the early 1980s. Today we support instruments from more than 16 manufacturers, providing sample introduction systems for over 50 different ICP and ICP-MS models. Our products are widely used and recognised as 'industry standard' products. By taking into account the type of samples that will be analysed, the analytical performance of an ICP can be significantly improved through a careful choice of torch, spray chamber and nebulizer components. The improvements in detection limits, tolerance to dissolved solids and running costs given by the appropriate selection of these sample introduction components give outstanding value. Glass Expansions understanding of the relationship between various sample introduction components, together with our expertise in manufacturing high quality sample introduction components, means that we can offer a complete solution to ICP sample introduction needs. More information on our products can be found in our catalog and website, or by contacting us directly. Russian forces now control less Ukrainian territory compared to what they had in the earlier phase of the Russia-Ukraine war that started in February 2022. The reason: Ukrainian troops unleashed a swift and efficient pushback in the Kharkiv region in September. According to a CNN analysis of information from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Russia secured or advanced on nearly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, or around 119,000 square kilometers (46,000 square miles), during its first significant offensive, which began on February 23. However, Russia currently holds around 3,000 square kilometers less territory than it did in the first five days of the campaign, per the report, seven months after it began its invasion of Ukraine. In an attempt to safeguard what it still governs, the Kremlin annexed four Ukrainian territories it only partially controls, expanding to the 2014 seizure and annexure of Crimea. At a ceremony last Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed four separate documents on the official admission of the territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions to the Russian Federation. A day before the event, Putin had already acknowledged the independence of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Russia's Annexation of Ukrainian Territories Prompted by Struggles CNN's examination of ISW data explains the military setbacks experienced by Moscow recently, which may have influenced the measures pushed by the Kremlin. In total, Russia roughly quadrupled the land it controls in the first month of the invasion, including the annexation of Crimea and the creation of the separatist-controlled republics of Luhansk and Donetsk in 2014. That, however, would be the pinnacle of Russian achievement. After failing to capture Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, Russia opted in early April to pull its soldiers out of the north and northeast of the country. In the following months, the Russian military and its partners have had trouble making significant progress. According to the data, its net acquisitions of territory in Ukraine slowed to a rate of 200-1,400 square kilometers per month between early May and the end of August. Kyiv has taken back the strategic eastern city of Lyman after driving away Moscow forces, which raised more concerns about Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine, increasing pressure on Putin's leadership. On Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed that his soldiers had encircled Lyman the day before and taken control, Al Jazeera reported. "As of 12:30 pm (09:30 GMT), Lyman is cleared fully," he said in a video message. Zelenskyy also thanked his troops, whom he called "heroes." Read Also: WATCH: Death in Indonesia Football Match Chaos Climbs to 174 People; Video Shows Panic During Stampede Russian forces utilized the city as a logistics and rail center in the Donetsk region. Therefore, losing Lyman means a big blow to its military campaign. According to US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, the Russian military will experience "a sort of dilemma" and drawbacks. The British military agrees with this assessment, noting that Moscow suffered a major political "setback" because of the retaking of Lyman. Zelensky Requests For More Military Aid Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg remarked on Sunday that Ukrainians can push back against Putin's annexation, given their advancement on the battlefield. The NATO chief added in the NBC interview that the Ukrainians were able to drive away the Russian forces because of their "courage" and "the advanced weapons that the United States and other allies are providing." Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, has pleaded for more resources from its allies for the Russia-Ukraine war, such as money and weapons, to secure the territory retaken from Russia. Warsaw Pact weaponry, which Ukraine had been utilizing for decades, was predominantly used in the early stages of the conflict. Although many units have adopted NATO-standard equipment, including artillery and ammunition, some still use older models. The ISW claims that multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) were employed in both Kharkiv and Kherson. Specifically, MLRS was used by the United States. According to Mr. Zelensky, the "primary goal" of the Ukrainian forces is "to de-occupy" their entire land. The United States has pledged more money for direct military aid than any other country. As of current reporting, the US total war assistance to Ukraine is approximately $12.5 billion, according to a BBC report. Related Article: Nord Stream Pipeline Leak: NATO Chief Doubles Down on 'Sabotage' Claims, Sends Warning to Attackers @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Follow these steps to most effectively minister to the suffering people in your congregation. Did you know churches are often the number one front-line mental health resource for their members? With 1 in 5 people in North America impacted by mental illness and millions more struggling with addiction, relationship issues, and stress management, the church is often the first place people turn to for support and help. While the pastoral staff is a key component of that support, they may quickly be overrun if theyre the sole resource for those suffering. Its wise to have a care team and an intentional care plan in place to prevent staff and volunteer burnout. To create a sustainable care ministry, churches should consider implementing these three steps: Leverage Community Partners Those looking for support often experience exceptionally complex issues, and its unrealistic to expect the pastoral team to be equipped to support every one. Thats why its essential that churches partner with specialty organizations within their community or region to appropriately support the comprehensive needs of congregants. By building relationships with organizations, specialists, and resources in their community, a church becomes more effective in meeting its congregation's needs. Leaders and volunteers can then confidently refer individuals to a specialized program that is better suited to help them. Build a Volunteer Care Team Its not helpfulor healthyto have a single person responsible for the care needs within your congregation. Yet, this is the most common way churches deal with mental health needs, and it can leave the leader highly susceptible to compassion fatigue. A congregational care program is best done as a team so that caregivers have a) access to mutual support and debriefing b) a chance for respite and c) a diverse range of experiences to offer those seeking support. There are 3 categories of caregivers: Clinicalprofessionals offering treatment Pastoralpastoral staff offering guidance through the biblical lens Peerthose with lived experience offering support All three types of caregivers have value and can contribute to a care team. Finding volunteers is difficult at the best of times, let alone when it involves supporting those who are suffering. Most empathetic people dont see their ability to show mercy as a gift, so they are less likely to respond to a general request for volunteers. Also, people minimize their gifts of mercy and compassion, so it is best to personally and individually invite people. When churches are seeking volunteers to be on a care team, leaders should look for natural helpers. By talking to people one on one or as a small group, leaders can ensure that they communicate the expectations of the volunteer role. Diversity (of culture, gender, age, and experience) on a care team is a strength and an asset, as long as each person has the maturity to maintain ethical standards and confidentiality. Train and Develop the Team Once a church has built community partnerships and gathered a team of passionate caregivers, its time to ensure the team is properly trained to provide effective support within their skill set. Clinicians offer treatment, pastors offer biblical counsel, and peers offer support. And even though all three types of caregivers come with unique expertise, its important that they receive sufficient training so they can be confident and competent in the support they offer. Training goals are not only to equip caregivers to support others, but also to support and strengthen the caregiver, so they can maintain their well-being. In time, a robust care ministry can become your churchs greatest strength. To that end, Hope Made Strong and Spiritual First Aid are offering a free virtual training event for pastors, church leaders, and volunteers: the Church Mental Health Summit. During the Church Mental Health Summit, participants will be equipped with practical tools, engage with Biblically-based resources, and learn research-developed strategies to support mental health. With over 50 speakers, this event is a great opportunity to access high-quality training focusing on knowledge growth, skills development, and leaders' wellbeing. Pastors and leaders: you are strategically positioned in the neighborhoods of your community. As people find freedom and support, your churchs light and witness will grow. You will become known as a place where broken people can find healing, those who are struggling can find grace, and the unlovable can find hope. Building a sustainable care ministry means that you can care for the growing needs of your communitywithout burning out your team. Through leveraging partnerships, building a volunteer care team, and developing a training strategy, you can grow a sustainable care ministry to transform the lives of suffering people. Hope Made Strong, Spiritual First Aid, and the Church Mental Health Summit are here to help you on your caregiving journey. Lets build the kingdom of God together. The Better Samaritan blog is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers a M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website As the founder of Hope Made Strong and the Church Mental Health Summit, Laura Howe is a mental health clinician and a community development strategist for churches that want to transform their community with care ministries. She also hosts the Care Ministry Podcast. Laura specializes in supporting local church leaders to overcome and prevent burnout, creating effective and sustainable care ministries and helping churches grow their community impact and influence. In July of 2007, Bible translators from a dozen Nigerian languages came together in the rural town of Bayara, Nigeria, for a three-week workshop to begin translating the Gospel of Luke. They gathered in a steel-roofed school building with a number of outside consultantssome Nigerian, others American and British. At the end of Friday, July 27, they had wrapped up their first week of work and made plans to unwind. Multilingual collaboration is taxing, and everyone was eager to eat dinner and watch a movie. The translators gathered their papers, books, and laptops into bags and slung them over their shoulders. One of them grabbed a USB thumb drive attached to a lanyard, which they used to pass files back and forth and store backups of their work. They walked half a kilometer through the warm evening air to a guest house where they were staying near the local hospital. The cooler rainy season had just begun, but this day had been neither cool nor rainy. The group finished eating around 7:30, and Veronica Gambo, the wife of one of the translation consultants, made popcorn. She filled a bowl and was carrying it out to join the others in front of the television when men with automatic rifles burst through a door into the kitchen. Gambo froze. A man put a gun barrel between her shoulder blades and marched her, still bearing the popcorn, into the living room. Get down! Danjuma Gambo, Veronicas husband, remembers the men yelling. They fired shots into the walls and ceiling. They forced everybody to the ground, including the translation projects leader, a silver-haired British woman in her late 60s. Andy Kellogg, an American working as a Bible translation consultant, was lying on the floor and wondering: ... 1 You have reached the end of this Article Preview You have reached the end of this Article Preview To continue reading, subscribe now. Subscribers have full digital access. Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. I was born in Alabama in 1948, during the time of Jim Crow. My grandfather had been a slave there, and my father a sharecropper. I grew up during the time of the Great Migration, when millions of Blacks left the American South to settle in the Northern, Midwestern, and Western states. My dads cousin found freedom from sharecropping in the steel mills of Youngstown, Ohio. My father followed soon thereafter, saving enough money to eventually bring our entire seven-member family as well. I dont remember much about that 1951 journey, but my parents told me about the lean and hard times we faced while living in a one-room apartment. I dont know when it began, but my father fell prey to alcoholism. I remember coming home from school and finding him passed out on the front porch of the four-room apartment we eventually inhabited. My mother drank during parties, but her real problem was rage. When I was a kindergartner, I carried a prized drawing home to show my mom, and as I rushed in the door, I saw her kissing a man who wasnt my father. In shock and confusion, I ran to my room. When my father arrived, I told him what I saw, and he went verbally ballistic on my mom. Dad left the house and abandoned me to my mothers previously unseen rage. As she beat me bloody with an extension cord, she yelled, Dont you ever tell on me again! Afterward, she threw me into a closet, and as I cried, she warned me, Shut up. If you dont, Ill beat you again. Fighting to survive So began many beatings throughout my adolescence. My older brothers bullied me too. I realized my survival depended on my ability to fight. Oddly, through it all, I loved my mom and knew she loved me. She was a hard-working woman who tried mightily to care for us. I never found out why she carried such anger, and I dealt with it the best I could until, one day, Id had enough. She sought to strike me for some reason, and I grasped her arm and said, Enough. Youre not going to hurt me anymore. From that day we had a mutual respect. Still, the abuse left its mark. I took my anger out on others, and I gained street cred for my fighting abilities. I started a street gang at age 13, and most of the members got sent to reform school at various times. I figured I was on my way there too. At 17, with no future in sight, I joined the Army. I longed for someplace to be somebody, and I was eager for a life of peace and order. Boot camp taught me valuable lessons about respect, teamwork, and discipline. I loved it and despised it in equal measure. Article continues below A soldier could not deploy to Vietnam before age 18. My original unit was sent mere months before my 18th birthday, and when I reached legal age, I had to join a new unit. I was scared, lonely, and sick with feelings of abandonment. I wondered how I would survive. Within a week, a guy introduced me to marijuana. That started my long journey with drugs. Because war has a way of maturing a soldier, I went from being a boy to a man in short order. Marijuana eased my worries about making it home, so I smoked every day. My anger kindled, though, when I saw my Black brothers being abused by the authorities. I heard about the civil rights movement, and I read about the Black mans history in America. I thought, Here I am, 10,000 miles away, fighting for people of a different ethnic group and taking this racism from my own countrymen. I turned my rage against white commanding officers and even had thoughts of killing one. After serving about a year in Vietnam, I returned home, and I brought my anger at white people with me. Enflamed with a militant spirit, I vowed to recruit an army and start a revolution. But a man introduced me to morphine, an easy addition to my marijuana habit, and soon it enslaved me. I had to have it, to the point of choosing to steal it. A group of us got arrested for armed robbery, and I was sentenced to 1025 years at the Ohio State Reformatory, a prison with 3,000 other men who acted like they were the baddest thing on planet earth. I wondered anew, How will I survive this? I kept to myself as much as possible and asked a seasoned inmate what it would take to get out in one piece. I was determined never to use drugs again, so I joined every available recovery group, hoping to strengthen my resolve. I solidified my reputation for fighting while in prison, but when I started going too far, something always held me back. With mostly good behavior, I was released to go to college on a furlough program. Come as you are I started college excited to move forward with my life and set a good example. However, drugs soon found me again through a friend I made in prison. Naively, I thought I could use one more time and then quit. But the habit came back with a vengeance. Then I met Katika, the woman who would change my life. I hid my addiction as I courted her, and we married. The drugs made me do things I never thought I was capable of, and they ate at my self-esteem. It took about two years of lying, stealing from our bank account, and hiding my paraphernalia before she discovered the truth. Article continues below Katika encouraged me to go into rehab and get myself well. I promised I would but never did. She said, I love you too much to watch you destroy yourself, and she announced she was leaving me. I didnt believe her until I came home, after getting fired from a job, and saw her packing. Our separation devastated me. I remember asking God, Do you really exist? Make yourself real to me. For a time, I continued my heavy use of drugs, and I occasionally stopped to see my wife, but she usually rebuffed me. After six months, I noticed something different about herpeace. She was patient with me and showed genuine concern. After lying about being okay, I asked her what was different about her. She said, I got saved. I had no idea what she meant. I only knew I liked seeing her again, and a kinder version at that. She invited me to church, and I went sporadically. I remember how friendly everyone was, and after about six months, I heard about a man who loved me just as I was. In June of 1977, as I sat and listened to the preacher say, Come as you are, I stopped questioning whether I could ask Jesus to save me. I knew he would. I ran so fast from my seat I knocked some hats off nice ladies in the pews. I will never forget that moment I was set free! Upon my profession of faith in Jesus Christ, God delivered me from my drug addiction on the spot. After my reconciliation to God, he began the process of reconciliation in my other relationships, starting with my wife. I asked her if we could live together again, and she reluctantly agreed. This year, we will celebrate 48 years of marriage. During that time, Ive had the privilege of serving God as a pastor and an evangelist. From childhood abuse and gangs, to Vietnam and drugs, to armed robbery and prisonthrough it all, he loved and protected me. Isnt he a wonderful Father? Marshall Brandon is an elder and visiting pastor at Citizens Akron Church in Akron, Ohio. Lisa Loraine Baker is the author of Someplace to Be Somebody: Gods Story in the Life of Marshall Brandon. Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. American evangelicals are moving away from orthodox understandings of God and Scripture. This years State of Theology survey revealed the top five misconceptions that US evangelicals hold, as follows: Jesus isnt the only way to God. Jesus was created by God. Jesus is not God. The Holy Spirit is not a personal being. Humans arent sinful by nature. CT polled five Christian leaders in China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan to find out whether these modern heresies are also widespread in their respective regions, how believers can address them, and what heresies may be more common in their contexts. Aaron Chau (name changed for security reasons), a house church pastor in Hubei, China Heresies in China are quite different from America. Based on this study, American evangelical heresies are greatly influenced by liberalism. In contrast, Chinese heresies are greatly influenced by fundamentalism and superstition. Most Chinese Christians will accept the authority of the Bible, but some will accept it to the point that they have turned the Reformation motto sola Scriptura into Read the Bible alone. Unlike how American evangelicals do not believe the Bible is literally true, some Chinese Christians are too devoted to the belief that the Bible is indeed so. American heresies arise because Christians are highly educated. Chinese heresies occur due to a lack of theological education, which is why heresies are more widespread in rural areas than in cities. The most influential Chinese Christian heresy is the belief that Christ was born in China and his second coming has literally happened. Eastern Lightning is the cult that created this heresy based on their reading of Matthew 24:27. Another popular heresy, Two taels of bread, is based on skewed readings of John 6:114 and 1 Kings 17:116 and maintains that rice or flour in a Christians home will not be depleted even if you eat it daily. Kin Yip Louie, professor of theological studies at the China Graduate School of Theology in Hong Kong Most Chinese Christians in Hong Kong would nominally agree with the historical creeds but often twist the practical implications of those doctrines. Hong Kong Christians will readily admit that Scripture is literally the Word of God and that we should obey all the commands in the Bible. Yet when it comes to application, they often ignore the social context of a passage and turn it into a moral teaching or an allegory of our personal relationship with God. For example, the story of Exodus is read purely as a personal journey into experiencing Gods promises, and its concern for justice and the marginalized is ignored. Or Revelation is read purely as a prediction of end-time events without recognizing its critique of political and economic exploitation. Thus, individualistic moralism may be the most prevalent form of heresy among Hong Kong Christians. Though most will agree that we are saved by grace alone, they often reduce their understanding of spirituality to inhibiting certain practices, such as smoking or gambling, and committing to other practices, like attending Sunday worship punctually. Practically, it is unclear whether they put their trust in Christ or in their own good behavior. Asako Hirohashi, director of translation at church planting network City to City in Chiba, Japan Jesus isnt the only way to God is the most common heresy in Japanese evangelical churches. However, its presence and influence are very subtle. While most evangelical public confessions of faith agree that salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone, many churchgoers function as if their salvation depends on how much they serve God in obvious ways. Some churches place greater emphasis on the importance of full-time ministry to the extent that all the other occupations are considered secular or unholy work. Article continues below One reason for this susceptibility toward heretical beliefs is that evangelicals are religious minorities in Japan. They have had to adapt their faith to accommodate the surrounding Japanese culture, which places a strong emphasis on living harmoniously with others in society. Another reason is due to our patriarchal and authoritarian cultural background. Congregations often accept what a church leader teaches from the pulpit without much consideration or questioning. Meehyun Chung, professor of systematic theology at Yonsei Universitys United Graduate School of Theology in Seoul, South Korea I am cautious about using the term heresies because certain leaders or movements in the development of Christianity, like Czech Reformer Jan Hus and the Waldensians in Italy, were branded as such and experienced unjust judgment. Korean Christianity has similar phenomena as American evangelicalism. But the most common heresy in Korea is the Gnostic concept of dualism between the body and soul. Korean shamanism is based on this dualistic perception. Shamans function as a channel between the spiritual world and the human world as their souls can enter the spirit realm or their bodies become hosts for a spirit or deity. More recent developments, like the field of artificial intelligence (AI), is also influenced by Gnosticism as it discounts the physical body. These Gnostic views impact how the Christian ethos is lived out in Korea, as concrete engagements with society are not a big concern for many Korean believers. Moreover, the most problematic heresies in Korea are the ones created by religious sects, which often develop a cult following around their founders or leaders. Tim Wang, a pastor at Chung Hsiao Road Presbyterian Church in Taichung, Taiwan Although the top five heresies in American evangelicalism most likely apply to numerous Christians in Taiwan, the more prevalent heretical beliefs I have seen during my seven years of ministering inside the Taiwanese church are dualism and the privatization of the Christian faith. Many Taiwanese Christians emphasize saving souls, sanctification, and the hope of spending eternity in heaven. This one-sided emphasis on the immaterial naturally draws believers to view the body and the material world as unfavorable and something to escape from. Taiwanese Christians also privatize their faith by generally staying out of politics and rarely speaking up on matters relating to injustice, racism, and other systemic evils in society and culture. They are willing to pray about these problems, but few take action or become personally involved with these issues. Pastors and leaders not only need to have good theology. They also need to disciple their congregationsa calling many have forsaken. As 2 Timothy 3:16 (CSB) says, All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness. Many teach, but few put in the time and effort to rebuke, correct, and train believers in righteousness. [ This article is also available in . ] Frank Pomeroy was hunting in the wet and cold Alaskan bush when the Lord gave him his final sermon as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. Considering the grizzlies, black bear, wolves, and rain, Pomeroy suspected the message would somehow encompass creation. But God kept bringing me back to, this was an opportunity for me to share whats important for the church to continue on, Pomeroy told Baptist Press, and thats when He led me to Pauls letter to Ephesus (Acts 20) and we just went from there. The tragedy First Sutherland Springs weathered when a gunman killed 26 worshipers and wounded 22 others on November 5, 2017, is perhaps the memory the churchs name most readily provokes. But First Sutherland Springs has ministered since 1926 in the small community of less than 1,000 people, 20 years under the leadership of Pomeroy. What really brings Sutherland Springs together over these 20 years is that there really is a true sense of relationship and family, he said. And therefore, we have always been very inclusive of the community, and that the church would be the center of the community, whether it was during a tragedy or in the good times. High on the mountain or low in the valley, theres always been a true sense of family with those in the community. And thats the thing I think I cherish the most, is that love never fails, as Paul said, and that love will extend to everyone who will come and listen to the Word. I think again, if we can be remembered as promoting and making sure everyone knew that that pulpit was never my pulpit, its always Gods pulpit, he said, and as being Gods pulpit, hes reaching out to whomsoever that will listen. And the defining thing would be that that church is not the building, its the body, and the body should be out including everyone. Pomeroy and his wife Sherri have sold their home to their youngest son Korey and daughter-in-law Ashley, downsized their belongings to a camper trailer and are planning a brief road trip before returning to Texas, perhaps for a campground ministry. But hes not certain of Gods plan. Their 14-year-old daughter Annabelle was among those killed when Devin Kelley walked in the church and began shooting indiscriminately in what remains the deadliest mass shooting in Texas history. Kelley fled the scene and fatally shot himself. The church survived the tragedy by choosing victory, Pomeroy said. We could have been validated by the world to choose hate and ugliness and play the victim card, he preached, or we could choose to say we are not victims, we are victors. We choose to put our faith in something greater than ourselves. I dont understand, but I know I cant go back and change whats already done, but I choose from this day forward to say, Lord, You are in control. And God has taken that, has made Sutherland Springs a lighthouse on a hill. We still get letters that say, I was an atheist, but because of the way you guys handled this situation. Why is that happening? Because we chose to lift up Jesus. Pomeroy encouraged the church to embrace humility, which goes beyond individual pain. Because of my knowledge of You (God), he said, I will take what You have given us that tastes so bad, but I will still use it to share the Gospel for Your glory. And that is what God has chosen to honor and bless. Pomeroys goal was to stay at First Sutherland Springs as long as the Lord willed, he told the congregation of 200 during the farewell sermon September 25 from Acts 20:17-35. Whether Im here physically or not does not change the fact that God does not leave, he told the congregation. You are the church. Each one of us individually is the church. We assemble together as First Baptist Sutherland Springs. Therefore, as we being the church, as long as we are getting stronger in the Lord as individuals of the church, together in unison we will always be stronger as Sutherland Springs. The church has demolished the building where the shootings occurred and has preserved an open-air memorial to those killed. Since 2019, the congregation has worshiped in a new facility funded by the North American Mission Board with gifts made through the Southern Baptist Convention and other donations. First Sutherland Springs bought the former Sweet Spirit Baptist Church building in the nearby town of St. Hedwig and in April, opened a north campus about 15 miles north of the main location. Despite the congregations resolve, the Pomeroys find some days more difficult than others. Theres still ups and downs, and I dont think you ever fully handle the loss of a child, he said. But as a family in Sutherland Springs, not just my biological family but the church family, we chose to look to something greater than ourselves for understanding. Although I might have done things differently, God has brought so many to Christ through this. Gods using her martyrdom and the others to bring others to his saving grace. When people ask Pomeroy what the new sanctuary in Sutherland Springs cost, he doesnt recite a dollar amount. I say it cost 26 lives, he said. I look at all 26 lives that were lost, including Annabelle, as the blood that was spilled for that church there in Sutherland Springs. The blood on this ground is what built this church, and Gods going to honor that. Catholic school has right to dismiss guidance counselor in a same-sex marriage, Judge rules A federal court has ruled that a Catholic in Indiana can lawfully refuse to renew the contract of a guidance counselor in a same-sex marriage. Judge Richard Young of the U.S. District Court of Southern Indiana ruled that Roncalli High School and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Indianapolis have a "ministerial exception" to choose school leaders who uphold Catholic teachings. The ministerial exception is a legal principle that exempts churches and religious institutions from discrimination lawsuits from employees who perform religious functions. The exception is designed to protect religious institutions from government influence. Former Roncalli guidance counselor Shelly Fitzgerald filed the lawsuit in October 2019. In 2018, the school found out she was in a same-sex marriage in violation of her contract and Catholic teaching, after which the school declined to renew her contract for the following year. In her lawsuit, Fitzgerald alleges that the school discriminated against her. Having worked at the school for 15 years, Fitzgerald had been with her partner for over 20 years. Young, an appointee of former President Bill Clinton, wrote, "Roncalli entrusted Fitzgerald to teach the Catholic faith and carry out Roncalli's religious mission." "Fitzgerald's employment agreement and Roncalli's description of Fitzgerald's expected duties are, alone, sufficient to resolve this case," the opinion states. "Fitzgerald's employment agreement was a 'teaching ministry contract' and Fitzgerald agreed to '[f]aithfully perform all duties of a [t]eacher in the school.'" The counselor contends in her legal filings that her position was never categorized as a "ministerial" position and that her role didn't require religious instruction. Luke Goodrich, vice president and senior counsel at the religious freedom legal group Becket, which represents the archdiocese, called the judge's opinion a "common-sense ruling" that is a victory for "every religious institution seeking to instill their faith in the next generation." "The Supreme Court has long recognized that religious organizations have a constitutional right to hire individuals who believe in their faith's ideals and are committed to their religious mission," said Goodrich. "Catholic schools exist to pass on the Catholic faith to their students; to do that, they need freedom to ask Catholic educators to uphold Catholic values." "Teachers, counselors, and other school staff have an important role in students' lives," Goodrich stated. "We are glad the court decided to let Roncalli decide for itself who should have that responsibility." In 2018, another former Roncalli counselor, Lynn Starkey, filed a similar lawsuit. A three-judge panel of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled in favor of the archdiocese and Roncalli in July, rejecting Starkey's lawsuit and upholding a lower court ruling. "For more than 30 years, Roncalli's employment contracts included a morals clause, and all evidence shows that the school considered Starkey a minister and entrusted her with religious duties," Circuit Judge Michael Brennan wrote at the time. President Joe Biden will visit Florida and Puerto Rico this week to examine storm damage and meet with leaders and locals after hurricanes hit both territories in 10 days. On Saturday, the White House confirmed Biden's plans to visit both areas, following his earlier declaration that he intended to do so this week. The White House announced that the president and first lady Jill Biden will go to Puerto Rico on Monday and Florida on Wednesday. An official from the White House said that Biden will meet with families and community leaders affected by Hurricane Fiona. The US chief executive will discuss with local officials and "receive a briefing on ongoing recovery efforts," CNN reported. On Wednesday, Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida, causing widespread destruction. Search and rescue crews are still looking for those caught by flood waters, but there is widespread concern that they will discover a catastrophic death toll. Medical experts in the state have confirmed that at least 44 people died in the catastrophe. Over 1.1 million households and companies have no electricity on Saturday. Florida officials announced Friday that the state, with help from federal and local rescuers, had saved more than 700 lives. On Friday, President Biden delivered a message on the ongoing relief operations for those affected by the hurricane. Pres. Biden Assures Aid for Hurricane Victims Biden noted that the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian is not only the State of Florida's concern. "This is an American crisis. We're all in this together," the president remarked. "I just want the people of Florida to know: We see what you're going through and we're with you," he underscored. Damage caused by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico is still being assessed, but the ongoing recovery activities around Hurricane Ian risk stealing the spotlight. Two weeks after the hurricane hit the island, almost 200,000 residents still have no access to electricity. Local community and Humanitarian organizations have voiced their displeasure with the Biden administration, citing issues such as the sluggish delivery of federal assistance to places hit by severe floods and the federal government's initial failure to include all of Puerto Rico in the disaster declaration, as per a report from Politico. Jill and I will travel this week to Puerto Rico and Florida to meet with families and local officials who have been affected by Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian. We see what youre going through, and were with you. President Biden (@POTUS) October 2, 2022 Read Also: US Slaps New Sanctions on Russia Following Annexation of Ukraine Territories There is unease among some Puerto Ricans that the island's recovery will be slowed even more while the federal government focuses on repairing damage from Hurricane Ian. Funds, Supplies for Puerto Rico Approved On Thursday, Pres. Biden reaffirmed his dedication to Puerto Rico during a speech at FEMA, saying that he is still committed to the "recovery of the island." He has pledged to keep working on the problem for "as long as it takes." According to VOA News, Biden will also announce $60 million in financing from the bipartisan infrastructure law approved last year to "shore up levees," reinforce flood barriers, and establish a new flood warning system that will allow Puerto Rico to become more ready for hurricanes. A White House information sheet indicated that Biden authorized a major disaster declaration for Puerto Rico on September 21. Over 1,000 government response employees were on the ground offering assistance, while over 450 personnel of the Puerto Rico National Guard were mobilized. Pressure on the White House resulted in a Jones Act waiver being issued by the Biden administration last week, making it possible for more diesel supply for Puerto Rico. Related Article: Florida Governor DeSantis Warns Criminals of Consequences If They Prey on Hurricane Ian Victims @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Lover confesses to killing pastor whose wife is serving life in prison for plotting his death An Oklahoma man has admitted to killing a pastor in his sleep at the request of the pastor's wife. Kahlil Square, 27, has pleaded guilty to a charge of first-degree murder for the March 2021 fatal shooting of Pastor David Evans of Freewill Harmony Church in Ada, NBC News reported last week. Square's plea is "blind," which means he has no agreement with the district attorney's office, according to Square's lawyer, Tony Coleman, adding that the decision was the "best strategy available." The late pastor's wife, Kristie Evans, 49, also pleaded guilty for her involvement in plotting the crime and was sentenced to life in prison in August. She will be eligible for parole in 2060. Evans claimed that the guilt "ate her alive" and confessed to authorities to "get right with God." During her sentencing hearing, prosecutors said they believe Evans is a "very good liar." Coleman claims Evans "manipulated" Square through a "web of deception." On March 22, 2021, Square reportedly snuck into the Evans home, went to the bedroom and shot David Evans while he slept. Initially, Kristie Evans reported to authorities that her husband, whom she married over three decades ago, was murdered unexpectedly by an "intruder." But shortly after the murder, Evans and Square were charged after Evans confessed her part in the plot. Evans told authorities her husband was abusive and even pressured her to "have sex with other men," including Square. Brittany Long, an adult daughter of the couple, released a statement to the media saying she believes her mother was abused and did what it takes to "survive." Long added that her mother told her "more than once that she still prefers her life now to the life she had been living since 1991." Joi Miskel, Evans' defense attorney, wanted a split sentence so that Evans would spend "some time in prison and the rest of [her] life on probation." "[Evans] went from being in a small town home with her mom and dad to a very abusive home with her husband, who over decades and decades abused her physically, emotionally, financially, sexually, especially in the last five years," Miskel told local news outlet KTEN in August. "He pretty much farmed her out and had men have sex with her, sometimes multiples at a time. It was a lifeline for her at that point, to just have someone pay her attention. And it was all positive attention." Evans admitted to conspiring with Square to kill her husband when he was on a mission trip in Mexico. They devised a plan to use the pastor's gun and bullets to kill him. Evans placed the gun and bullets outside on the night of the murder for Square to use and unlocked an exterior door for him to enter in the middle of the night. Prosecutors say David Evans was under a $250,000 life insurance policy, and the family declared bankruptcy a few months before the murder, The Oklahoman reports. Prosecutors said that Evans wrote Square sexual messages just two weeks after their arrest. North Dakota man charged with murder in death of teen he called a 'Republican extremist' A North Dakota man accused of running over a teen who he described as a member of a Republican extremist group has been charged with murder after he was initially freed on bond. Shannon Brandt faces charges of homicide and "duty in an accident involving death" following the hit-and-run that killed 18-year-old Cayler Ellingson on Sept. 18, according to Fox News. Brandt, 41, was arrested and then released after he hit Ellingson with his SUV following a local event in the town of McHenry, about 100 miles northeast of Bismarck. According to newly released court documents, Brandt called 911 immediately after the crash and asked the 911 operator, "I just wanna ask you a question, am I going to prison?" Brandt told the 911 dispatcher who answered his call that Ellingson was somehow impeding his ability to leave the area. "I just tried to take off ... he wouldn't let me go. I hit him. I didn't mean to and he's subdued. I was scared to death but he's subdued. He can't do anything to me now, so this is why I'm calling you. I almost ... just runaway, but I thought jeez obviously if it was a total accident I wouldn't be scared, but I know it was more than that." Prosecutors say Brandt initially fled the scene after plowing over Ellingson and told 911 that he believed at the time that the teenager was trying to get a group of other people together to come get him. According to a probable cause affidavit, Ellingson was in fact calling his mother for help before Brandt hit Ellingson with his SUV. Ellingson was transported to a nearby hospital, where he died a short time later. Brandt posted a $50,000 bond and was released from jail on Sept. 20. Following an announcement from Foster County state prosecutors about the new charges, Brandt surrendered to police Friday at the Stutsman County Correction Center, according to Fox News. Prosecutor Kara Brinster also announced that the previous charge of criminal vehicular homicide against Brandt was dismissed because of the new murder charge. An affidavit from Foster County indicated that an autopsy revealed there were no skid marks or acceleration marks where Ellington was found, and that the nature and manner of his injures indicated Ellington was on the ground when he received those injuries and were caused by being ran over. The affidavit also stated Brandt made comments during that 911 call about the incident being intentional and not an accident. North Dakota Highway Patrol Capt.Bryan Niewind, meanwhile, said investigators have found no evidence to support Brandts claim that Ellingson was a Republican extremist. Brandt is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 11. Funeral services were held Monday for Ellingson at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Carrington, North Dakota. 7 signs you have fully submitted to Christ Paul said he was a drink offering. This meant that he offered his very life, spirit, soul, and body to the Lord and to His church as a living sacrifice (Numbers 15:4-10; 2 Timothy 4:6; Romans 12:1-2). He also said he not only spent but was spent for the Gospel (2 Corinthians 12:15). When you spend, you donate discretionary resources. When you are spent, you give everything you have, even your life. As The Homilies of S. John Chrysostom on the Statues: Or, To the People of Antioch says "The rich man is not one who is in possession of much, but one who gives much." When a person is only partially committed to Christ, he is "half baked." Its like a half-baked cake or something that is lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, like the Laodicean church (Hosea 7:8, Revelation 3:14-16). Jesus expects His disciples to count the cost and forsake all to follow Him (Luke 14:23-35). The following are seven signs you are living the sown life: 1. You fully surrender to the will of God every day without hesitation Every morning we need to start the day with a blank slate in our hearts, fully submissive to the Lord. We should echo the words of Jesus when He told the Father, Not My will but Your will be done. (Matthew 26:39) When we start the day with that submissive attitude, we allow Him the opportunity to fill us with His Spirit. Consequently, by waiting upon Him and practicing the spiritual disciplines (private or corporate prayer, worship, bible meditation, fellowship with other believers), it is easier to abide in His presence throughout the day and set the Lord before us (Psalm 16:8). 2. You live a life of peace that arises out of fully resolving to live for Christ. When we acknowledge and submit to Christ in all our ways, we are at peace because we can trust that Hes directing our paths (Proverbs 3:5-7). By submitting to Him daily, we cast our cares upon the Lord and resist our anxious thoughts by prayer and supplication (Phillippians 4:6-7, 1 Peter 5:6). 3. You take up your cross daily. While this is not a popular preaching theme in contemporary hyper-grace churches (who believe the Gospels fall under the category of the Old Testament and do not apply to the church), taking up our cross is still a command for the church. Paul, the apostle, reconfirmed that this is still relevant to the church when he said he was crucified with Christ, and it was no longer he who lives but Christ who lives in him (Galatians 2:19-20). The historical cross was the gory method in which Jesus and thousands of others were put to death during the Roman empire (Matthew 27:37). Jesus, anticipating His future execution, admonished His disciples to take up their cross. He explained what this meant when He said that if someone wants to preserve or protect his life, he will lose it. However, if someone loses his life (which means fully surrendering to God), he will find it (Mark 8:34-38). Hence, the cross has been used as a powerful symbol to refer to a persons absolute surrender to God by crucifying one's self-will and sinful desires (Galatians 5:24). 4. You live beyond the measure of your natural abilities. God was angry at His people in the first covenant because they limited Him (Psalm 78:41). One way we limit God is by disobeying Him when He requires us to do something beyond our natural abilities or resources like in Numbers 13 when Israel refused to conquer the promised land because they saw giants in the land. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us that when we surrender to God, we live a life of faith that fully trusts Him, which often requires us to live beyond the limits of our natural, rational world. 5. You count not your life as dear to yourself. The apostle Paul said he was able to finish his divine assignment commensurate to his willingness not to count his life as dear to himself (Acts 20:22-24). This is due to not drawing back because of difficult circumstances, tests, trials, challenges, and inconveniences. Unfortunately, many Christians retreat from ministry and from serving Christ when things get difficult. Its often because their love of self exceeds their love for God. 6. Your life is a witness, not merely your words. Jesus told His disciples that the purpose of the coming power of the Spirit was so that they would be His witnesses (Acts 1:8-9). Thus, we should not separate our life from our words and beliefs in the Christian faith. When we are fully sown into the Lord, we become a living epistle, and people will be able to follow our life, not just our words (2 Corinthians 3:2-3, 2 Timothy 3:10-14). 7. You bear much fruit. Jesus told us that those who continually abide in Him would bear much fruit since they are recipients of His life and virtue (John 15:1-7). Hence, one of the signs of a life entirely devoted to Him, the sown life, is the power, life, and ministry of Christ working through a person. In this context, fruit refers to both the fruits of the Spirit (the character of Christ shown in Galatians 5:22-23) and the works of the ministry of Christ (John 14:12). In conclusion, I pray that all of us will be fully sewn into the kingdom of God and not merely give God the leftovers of our discretionary time, talent, and treasures. Pastor of Texas church where gunman killed 26 preached on Pauls letter to Ephesus in last sermon Pastor Frank Pomeroy gave his last sermon before retiring from his church in Texas that garnered national headlines in 2017 when a shooter entered its sanctuary and killed 26 people, including the pastors daughter The pastor said he felt God wanted him to preach on Pauls letter to Ephesian church elders. It was Nov. 5, 2017, when the shooter, Devin Patrick Kelley, who was discharged from the U.S. Air Force after serving one year in military prison, entered the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs during a Sunday worship service and killed 26 people, including Pomeroys 14-year-old daughter, Annabelle. Kelley, who fled the scene, was then wounded by a neighbor and National Rifle Association instructor, and later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Five years later, Pomeroy, who has served in the church for 20 years, told Baptist Press that the Lord gave him his final sermon before his retirement while he was hunting in the wet and cold Alaskan bush. As he thought about what his final sermon should be, God kept bringing me back to, this was an opportunity for me to share whats important for the church to continue on, and thats when He led me to Pauls letter to Ephesus (Acts 20) and we just went from there. The church survived the tragedy by choosing victory, Pomeroy said. We could have been validated by the world to choose hate and ugliness and play the victim card, he preached past Sunday, or we could choose to say we are not victims, we are victors. We choose to put our faith in something greater than ourselves. I dont understand, but I know I cant go back and change whats already done, but I choose from this day forward to say, Lord, You are in control. And God has taken that, has made Sutherland Springs a lighthouse on a hill. The pastor told the congregation that the church continues to receive letters that say, I was an atheist, but because of the way you guys handled this situation because we chose to lift up Jesus. He added, Whether Im here physically or not does not change the fact that God does not leave, he told the congregation. You are the church. Each one of us individually is the church. We assemble together as First Baptist Sutherland Springs. His farewell sermon was on Acts 20:17-35. Pomeroy also spoke to Baptist Press about his daughters death in the 2017 shooting. Theres still ups and downs, and I dont think you ever fully handle the loss of a child, he was quoted as saying. But as a family in Sutherland Springs, not just my biological family but the church family, we chose to look to something greater than ourselves for understanding. He added, Although I might have done things differently, God has brought so many to Christ through this. Gods using her martyrdom and the others to bring others to His saving grace. In May 2019, the FBC Sutherland Springs congregation officially held their first service in the new sanctuary, which was attended by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Their previous building has been converted into a memorial for the victims. Last August, the FBC Sutherland Springs decided to demolish the building where the tragedy occurred. Members of the congregation voted 69 to 35 to demolish their former sanctuary. According to news station KTSA San Antonio, the building was considered structurally unsafe. When people ask Pomeroy what the new sanctuary cost, he tells them, 26 lives, he was quoted as saying. How support from a church, pro-life group convinced a single mom not to abort her baby Nearly seven years ago, Maddie Martinez was working a full-time job that she really loved and sought to move up in the company. These aspirations, she said, led her to strongly consider having an abortion after she became pregnant. However, an encounter with a Love Box from the pro-life organization Embrace Grace convinced her to choose a different path. Now in her early 30s, Martinez works as the group coordinator for the Hurst, Texas-based pro-life ministry Embrace Grace which creates Love Boxes for women facing unplanned pregnancies. Inside each box is a personal invitation to a support group, stories shared by other mothers, a letter to give the young woman hope, a journal, a baby onesie that says Best Gift ever and A Bump in Life book featuring testimonies to offer hope to single moms, the website states. Embrace Grace distributes Love Boxes to pregnancy centers located near churches that partner with the pro-life organization that offer support groups for women facing unplanned pregnancies. Embrace Graces 2021 Impact Report revealed the existence of 663 support groups across 48 states and seven countries. The organization is one of several pro-life groups that have gained renewed national attention following the United States Supreme Courts June 24 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization. In Dobbs, the Supreme Court ruled that the U.S. Constitution did not contain a right to abortion, overturning the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide. Following the Dobbs decision, several states have banned or added regulations on abortion. Pro-life activists like Live Action founder Lila Rose continue to stress the importance of providing for mothers facing unplanned pregnancies, no matter where they live. While the legality of abortion in the U.S. has changed in certain states, the mission of Embrace Grace remains the same: to inspire and equip the church to love on single and pregnant young women and their families. In an interview with The Christian Post, Martinez extolled the work of Embrace Grace that gave her the strength to ditch her plan to have an abortion and refocus her life. Maybe I could do this I was 24 when I got pregnant, Martinez recalled. I had graduated college, had a really great job and was pretty self-sufficient, but I wanted to keep moving up in that company that I was with. And so, thats why I really wanted to have the abortion. Martinez told CP that she wasnt married at the time and knew that if I was going to be a mom, that I was going to do it alone, adding, I knew that nobody else was going to parent with me. Having made up her mind that she was going to have an abortion, Martinez needed somebody to take me to my appointment and pick me up from the appointment and it couldnt be Uber because it had to be the same person signing off that they were going to take care of me. Martinez sought help from her sister, who is three years younger and already had experience with Embrace Grace. She really tried to talk me out of it, but I was pretty adamant, Martinez said, referring to the abortion that had already been scheduled. Seeing that Martinez was determined to abort her baby, her sister sought help from Embrace Graces group leader Amy Ford, who co-founded the organization. Ford advised Martinezs sister to speak words of life over her. You encourage her, and you tell her she could be a good mom, Ford advised. When Martinezs sister explained that she already did that and thats not working, Ford agreed to meet and present her with a box like those going to pregnancy centers to help moms make a life-affirming decision for their [babies]. Since Martinez lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex where Embrace Grace is located, Ford was able to meet and present her with a gift bag and offer her support. The Love Box Martinez received, which was called the Love Bag at the time, contained all the items included in a typical package delivered to a pregnancy resource center except the addition of a onesie. She let me open it as if it was a gift and read the handwritten letter that was in there. She read it out loud to me, and just told me that I was a really great aunt, and I could be a really amazing mom, too, and I just needed to trust that God had a plan for me, Martinez said. I abandoned the appointment. I never went. While nobody put pressure on Martinez to have an abortion, the few people in her life she talked to about the pregnancy said they would support her no matter what decision she made. Her sister was the exception, however, pleading for her babys life: Dont have an abortion. Martinez responded to her sisters persistence by giving her an ultimatum: Either youre going to help me or youre not. Her sister ultimately assured her that shed be supportive regardless of her ultimate decision. But she continued to call things out in me and really helped me see that this wasnt about an abortion, this was about me stepping into a greater calling, she added. Along with her sisters insistence that she change her mind about abortion, Martinez said the book she received as part of the Love Box, titled A Bump in Life, also inspired her to cancel the abortion clinic appointment. The evening before she was scheduled to have the first abortion clinic appointment, Martinez stayed up all night reading the book because she couldnt sleep. The book contained stories of mothers who chose life after facing unplanned pregnancies. Maybe it wasnt the healthiest thing to do, but I really was comparing my situation with the ones in the stories, and I just kept thinking, Wow, if she could do that, then I could do that, she said. Some of them were homeless; some of them conceived out of rape; some of them were pastors kids and there was a lot of pressure on them. For me ... that wasnt the case. Martinez realized that, unlike the women in the book, I did have a job, I did have a home, I did have a family who I knew would be supportive. When it got time for me to head over to the abortion clinic, I couldnt do it and I didnt want to do it. She attributed her hesitancy about having the abortion to the book, which helped plant seeds of hope in me that I could be a good mom, that I could do this. That book was in the bag that was gifted to me from my sister and so, I just picked it up and read it. I think I could have read any other book, but I just happened to pick up that one and I really started to think maybe I could have a baby, maybe I could be a good mom; maybe I could do this. And then my alarm went off for me to get ready for the day and that was the day I was going to have the abortion. And I think in some ways, that book stuck with me throughout the day. Martinez told CP she was grateful to have her sister beside her at this point in her life. She knew that once I said I cant do it, she wasnt going to let me change my mind again. What the church is supposed to look like After deciding to continue her pregnancy, Martinez developed a relationship with Embrace Grace. She credits the ministry with helping her to deepen her faith. Before really understanding who God was, I just went to church on Sunday and I knew that I felt like I was breaking all of the rules that had been set for me, like the Ten Commandments and the things that are said in the Bible that youre not supposed to do, and I was doing them all, Martinez shared. And then I would go to church on Sunday and ask for forgiveness and then start all over again. And so, it was just this vicious cycle but I didnt have a relationship with the Lord. I knew how to go to church, I knew how to pray, but that was it. Hannah Morris, donor relations manager for Embrace Grace, described her organizations 12-week program for single mothers facing unplanned pregnancies as a source of emotional support, spiritual support [and] practical support. Embrace Grace enabled Martinez to discover that God already had this plan and that by getting pregnant He wasnt disappointed in me, and He wasnt angry with me. From there, Martinez started to see God in a different way and trust Him in a lot of areas. I surrendered my life to God for the last time and Im not exaggerating, she declared. Ive probably done it several hundred times and tried and tried and tried and it was like this rock bottom point for me that I was pregnant, and I knew that my baby wasnt conceived in a way that I could be proud of, but I could still be someone He could be proud of. As part of the Embrace Grace program, support group members throw a baby shower for the expectant mother, which Martinez fondly remembered as overwhelming. Martinez had begun attending a nearby church that partnered with Embrace Grace but did not officially join the faith community. Leading up to the baby shower, two women at the church adopted Martinez and her then-unborn baby for a baby shower and bought numerous baby items and wrapped the gifts in celebration of her and her unborn child. At Martinezs baby shower, members of the support group stacked the presents really, really high on this table to the point where you couldnt see the other side of the room because the stack of gifts was so high. While she didnt know these women, Martinez discovered that they were so excited to meet me and they just said, I want to know everything about you. They also shared their enthusiasm for her and her new life: We could not wait to buy gifts for you and your baby. Martinezs father, who helped her take the numerous gifts to her apartment, asked, You mean to tell me that people that you dont know from a church that you dont regularly go to bought you all these gifts? When she answered in the affirmative, her father replied, Thats what the church is supposed to look like. Thats what its supposed to be, he added as tears filled his eyes. I could not agree with him more that thats what it was supposed to look like. Its just helping and loving people where theyre at, without the expectation of what you think they should be doing or who you think they should be. To this day, Martinez stays in contact with the church ladies who threw her a baby shower. They put their names and numbers in a card for me, and I remember for birthdays after that, I would send them pictures and just tell them how thankful I was for them. Being a mom isnt the end of the world Martinezs pregnancy marked the beginning of her relationship with Embrace Grace. Deciding that she had to help other moms see that abortion isnt a solution even though it feels like one, Martinez began volunteering there all the time. I would take days off work to volunteer and build those Love Boxes and write those letters and talk to anybody who was there, anybody who would listen," she told CP. I would tell them about what I experienced, how I abandoned my abortion appointment and how my life really changed after I got to understand who God was and the relationship He wanted with me through Embrace Grace and how pro-lifers arent angry people and they didnt only care about my baby. I just knew that if I could help just one mom understand that being a mom isnt the end of the world, then I did something right and I did something to help somebody the way that I was helped, Martinez proclaimed. For her part, Martinez discovered this soon after giving birth to her son, Mateo, on Aug. 1, 2016. Once I had my baby, everything shifted, she explained. Perspectives shifted and I really just became a lot more thankful and grateful for my parents and for their support in so many aspects and really being able to see what Embrace Grace was doing for moms. Martinez eventually transitioned from volunteering at Embrace Grace on the side to working for the ministry full time after employees there asked if she had a job and encouraged her to send them her resume. After a couple of interviews, they hired me and Ive been there for five years now and hopefully for a lot more because this is my dream job. I love it. In addition to transitioning to full-time work at Embrace Grace, Martinez started Embrace Life, a ministry for single parents, at her church. She attended a church with an Embrace Grace group during her pregnancy and later learned there was another campus of the same church much closer to her home: I knew that I wanted to start an Embrace Grace group at some point. I think I just wanted to get single motherhood under my belt first. Martinez described the other members of the Embrace Life group at her church as like family, adding, My son loves them all. As Morris highlighted, Embrace Life is a yearlong program that focuses on practical needs in addition to helping participants discover their identity in Christ. They talk about budgeting, they talk about parenting, they talk about dating while youre a single mom, she said. We also have a group for dads called Embrace Legacy. With Mateo recently celebrating his sixth birthday, Martinez has come to fully embrace motherhood. My son is 6 years old and hes my only one, she said. Its just me and him. Hes literally the love of my life. He really is. I thought he would ruin my life and hes done so much to just enrich it, to just make it this beautiful life. I always say that the Love Box saved my baby. And in a lot of ways, my son saved me, Martinez added. He really helped me to step into being brave. The proud mother described her son as this combination of silly and goofy and sweet and tender. She expressed gratitude that hes not afraid to stand up for people, stressing that he is absolutely fearless and amazing. Martinez declared that she cant imagine doing life without God, whom she credited for helping develop positive character traits in her son: He stood in the gaps for me and my son in so many ways every single day. I dont think that I could have taught him that on my own. I definitely needed God in those areas to show him his full potential really. Front row seats to miracles In her role as group coordinator for Embrace Grace, Martinez has sat in several front row seats to miracles. She has worked there full-time for five years after spending a year volunteering. Working at Embrace Grace, I get to see so many miracles that are happening all over the nation and in different parts of the world. She identified some of her favorite moments on the job as phone calls from group leaders discussing how this girls in a really hard situation and I dont know what to do, I dont know how to help her. Martinez said she stresses to concerned group leaders that we can do only one piece of the puzzle, and we get to trust God to do the rest. Martinez expressed gratitude for all the times when they call back and they say, Youre not going to believe that God has come through for this mom. Embrace Grace group leaders regularly pray that God will come through for women facing unplanned pregnancies, she added. My favorite part is when leaders are sharing stories about how moms come in and theyre shy and reserved and theyre not trusting and when they leave, theyre on fire for God and they cant wait to get more. Although Embrace Grace primarily distributes Love Boxes in bulk to pro-life pregnancy centers, sometimes the organization receives calls from people around the country who are saying, I know somebody whos pregnant and she has an abortion appointment. Embrace Grace's founder heard a similar plea from Martinezs sister in January 2016. In those cases, Martinez said Embrace Grace staff members always offer to talk to that mom. If shes open to talking with us, wed love to talk with her and then we can always try and send her a Love Box. We try to overnight a Love Box to her so that she can get one if theres not one available at the pregnancy center near her. Or [if] she doesnt want to go to the pregnancy center, well overnight a Love Box to her. While Embrace Grace is located in the Dallas area, Martinez said the organization works to reach more churches across the U.S. and around the world by going to conferences and using social media. We have a team thats dedicated to reaching out to anybody and everybody whos reaching out to us about starting a group. And they talk with them. They answer their questions, they help their pastors capture the vision of Embrace Grace as well. God is amazing, and He just keeps opening these doors and these opportunities for people to continue to share about us, she declared. We have many denominations who host Embrace Grace groups. Martinez encouraged prospective partner churches to preview Embrace Grace, see what its about and see if its a fit for their church. Those hoping to start an Embrace Group at their church can find more information on the organizations website. Speaking about the impact the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision had on Embrace Grace, Martinez said she has personally seen more [support] groups come about. I think people now understand that these moms need help. Were starting to see an uptick in groups. Were starting to see an uptick in people trying to gather more resources to share with moms. The big thing for moms who are abortion-minded or who just dont want to be pregnant, they dont know what resources are out there. And so, people are trying to gather resources to give to these moms to say, Hey, heres everybody you can reach out to to help you, and one of those is Embrace Grace. Morris also expressed gratitude for the across the board uptick in donations Embrace Grace had received since the Dobbs decision, specifically pointing to an increase in churches stepping up to start groups as well as monetary gifts. Its been amazing, she said. The amount of Love Boxes that were sending out has increased. More girls are going to pregnancy centers and more love boxes are being handed out. Martinez concluded the interview with CP by crediting Embrace Grace with helping to show pro-life people in a new light. The organization, she reiterated, makes them more real, more human and shows moms that pro-life people arent angry. Her favorite part of Embrace Grace is that they like to take care of moms by ensuring that the babys going to be taken care of. They really care about mom, and they really want her to be the best, healthiest version of herself so she can be the best, healthiest version for her baby. Relational and transformational Highlighting the work the organization does and the relationships it cultivates with pregnancy centers and churches, Morris said Embrace Grace works with over 500 pregnancy centers in the U.S., and said support groups have increased to more than 800 following the Dobbs decision. We provide Love Boxes to a pregnancy center if theres a group within 30 miles of that pregnancy center. We dont want to give Love Boxes out to a girl if theres not a group for her to go to. And so, as new groups start, we connect with pregnancy centers surrounding that area where that group is. Morris added, We have someone on staff who builds relationships with those pregnancy centers, makes sure that they have Love Boxes to give out and have a full understanding of what we do and what the Love Box does. Embrace Graces headquarters has a volunteer station where volunteers work to assemble the Love Boxes, which the group sends to pregnancy centers based on the need for them. Churches also have the option to purchase Love Boxes. A church can do an outreach where they purchase Love Boxes and then they assemble the Love Boxes as a group. And then they take the Love Boxes to their local pregnancy center so that also is kind of a bridge from the church to pregnancy centers to get them connected and a relationship going on, she added. The work culture at Embrace Grace is relational and transformational as opposed to transactional, Morris said. Thats how we treat our group leaders and our pastors that have groups. Our focus and mission really is to teach and train the church to walk alongside these moms, she said. So, our hope is that they are in a deep relationship with these moms to get them really plugged in and connected to their church, to the local church. Although it has now been several years since Martinez went through the Embrace Grace program, she still benefits from the generosity of the organizations donors. Earlier this year, an anonymous donor gifted a car to the pro-life ministry, which Embrace Grace then traded in for two less expensive cars. The organization gave the two cars away to single mothers, one of whom was Martinez. At the time of the car donation earlier this year, Martinez had a car that was consistently breaking down while the other single mom who received a vehicle did not have a car at all. We had a donor who reached out and she said, Hey, I have a car and I really feel like were supposed to give it to a single mom. And so, some of us on staff really prayed about who the car was supposed to [go to]. Morris expressed hope that sharing the story about the car donation would compel other people and encourage them that if they have the means to do something like that, thats another way that they can meet the needs of a single mom. California law creating 'sanctuary' for child gender surgeries raises parental rights concerns California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a new law that critics say would effectively make California a sanctuary state for trans-identified minors seeking life-altering surgeries and hormones. A prominent legal group contends the new law creates serious parental rights concerns. Newsom signed into law SB 107 Thursday, which contains several provisions related to "gender-affirming healthcare." The measure passed the California State Assembly in a 60-19 vote on Aug. 29, followed by a 30-9 vote in the California Senate on Aug. 31. In both cases, the vote fell along party lines, with all support coming from Democrats and all opposition coming from Republicans. The legislation amends the Sunshine State's family code to grant a state court "temporary emergency jurisdiction" if a child "is subjected to, or threatened with, mistreatment or abuse, or because the child has been unable to obtain gender-affirming health care or gender-affirming mental health care." Opponents of the law, such as the Alliance Defending Freedom, believe the language opens the door for a state court to take a child away from a parent or guardian who refuses to allow their trans-identified children to undergo puberty suppression, cross-sex hormone regimens or body-mutilating gender transition surgeries. The law's proponents contend that the new law doesn't give the state courts any additional authority than they already have. The bill also bars healthcare providers, insurers and contractors from "releasing medical information related to a person or entity allowing a child to receive gender-affirming health care or gender-affirming mental health care" when requested by other state law enforcement agencies bringing criminal action against "a person or entity that allows a child to receive gender-affirming health care." Additionally, the measure prohibits healthcare providers from releasing medical information if "the information is being requested pursuant to another state's law that authorizes a person to bring a civil action against a person or entity who allows a child to receive gender-affirming health care or gender-affirming mental health care." The Alliance Defending Freedom, a national legal nonprofit that has won cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, is one of several organizations that have expressed concerns about the implications of the new law. In an Aug. 2 letter to the California Assembly Committee on Appropriations, ADF Senior Counsel Matt Sharp warned that "SB 107 violates parental rights protected by the U.S. Constitution by giving California courts the ability to strip parents who reside in another state of their parental rights if their child travels to California to obtain gender transition procedures." "This bill would lead to significant harm to families throughout the country," Sharp predicted. Sharp outlined several scenarios that, he believes, could result following the legislation's passage, such as "an unfit parent about to lose custody could travel to California with the child, give the child puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones, and in doing so win custody under SB 107, even if the home-state court has already entered judgment on the case." In addition, Sharp claims that "parents whose child visits a relative in California could lose custody of their child forever if the relative persuades the child to identify as a different gender during the visit." Another potential consequence of the bill, Sharp claims, involves the deprivation of jurisdiction from courts in other states if "the case involved gender identity and the child travels to California, even if all of the evidence and parties involved in the case are located in the home state." "Parents of children who never travel to California could be denied medical information about their child if the child obtains puberty blockers from a doctor in California via telemedicine," Sharp added, calling the bill California's attempt to "undermine parental rights [and] pit children against their parents." A spokesperson for Sen. Scott Wiener, who sponsored the bill, told Reuters that the legislation "doesn't give courts (new) authority to take custody from parents of minors seeking gender-affirming care." "All the bill does is provide guidance to courts about hearing cases where they already are allowed to do so under California law," the spokesperson said. However, the bill does give jurisdiction to state courts for children who travel to California for "gender-affirming healthcare" they can't receive elsewhere under a category of "emergencies" because the child has been "unable to obtain gender-affirming health care or gender-affirming mental health care." "State courts around the country have the authority to consider whether to retain jurisdiction over a custody matter involving a child who recently came into the state," Asaf Orr, an attorney at the National Center for Lesbian Rights, told Reuters. "This typically occurs in instances of domestic violence or other crisis situations. This law simply clarifies that courts should retain jurisdiction in situations where a parent brings their child to California so that they can obtain medical treatment for gender dysphoria from a state that has banned or restricted access to that care." Emilie Kao, the senior counsel and vice president of advocacy strategy at Alliance Defending Freedom, said in a statement that the new law is an "astonishing disregard for the Constitution and the laws of other states." "California will now be able to take away custody of children from their own parents no matter what state they're from and deny families the right to access their child's medical information," she said. "Parents have the fundamental right to direct the upbringing and care of their children, which includes making the best decisions regarding their children's mental, emotional, and physical health." Kao warned the new law is the "latest in an onslaught of attacks against parental rights and a demonstration of just how far some governments are willing to go to replace parents as the ultimate decision makers of what's best for children." Other states have passed laws prohibiting children from receiving gender transition surgeries, puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones. Alabama, Arizona and Arkansas have implemented laws banning children from obtaining such procedures. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and the state's Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton have classified them as a form of child abuse. The American College of Pediatricians has maintained that "there is not a single long-term study to demonstrate the safety or efficacy of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and surgeries for transgender-believing youth." The group, which describes itself as a "national organization of pediatricians and other healthcare professionals dedicated to the health and well-being of children," lists "osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, cognitive impairment and, when combined with cross-sex hormones, sterility" as possible side effects of puberty blockers. ACP reports that the use of cross-sex hormones is accompanied by "an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers." Parental rights have developed into a major hot-button issue in American politics. Some school districts in the U.S., including Leon County Public Schools in Florida and Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland, have been sued for policies requiring teachers to affirm trans-identified children's preferred gender identities without their parental consent. A bill signed into law by Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year instructs school districts not to enact policies that keep parents in the dark about any changes to their children's mental health. Florida forbids the adoption of "procedures or student support forms that prohibit school district personnel from notifying a parent about his or her student's mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being" that "encourage or have the effect of encouraging a student to withhold from a parent such information." Dan Busby, longtime ECFA leader, dies at 81 Dan Busby, the longest-serving president of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability who helped to grow the organizations membership, has died at age 81. ECFA posted a statement on its website explaining that Busby, a certified public accountant who had been with the organization in different capacities since 1989, died of cancer last Wednesday. Michael Martin, the current president and CEO of ECFA who succeeded Busby in 2020, said in the statement that the organization was remarkably blessed by Dan Busbys humble and dedicated service to the ministry for over 30 years, adding that the continued impact of Dans legacy will be felt within the ECFA team and membership far beyond the next three decades. Dan Busby was a genius at connecting, communicating, leading and innovating as he served the members of ECFA and the Kingdom of God, said ECFA Board Chair Wayne Pederson, also quoted in the statement. Dan was not only an esteemed ministry colleague, but a dear friend who cared deeply about the family of God and the people he served. Troy A. Miller, president and CEO of the Christian media group National Religious Broadcasters, released a statement last Thursday giving his condolences. I was saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Dan Busby from this life, but what a joy to know that he was greeted by his Lord and Savior with those welcoming words, Well done, thou good and faithful servant, Miller said. Dan was a servant leader and a Godly man who leaves behind a long-lasting legacy. His leadership at ECFA provided stability and accountability to so many Christian organizations and NRB members in particular. Our prayers go out to Dans loved ones. Born in Kansas in 1941 and the son of a preacher, Busby earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Emporia State University and became a CPA in 1964. He joined the ECFA in 1989, initially serving as a volunteer member of the organizations Standards Committee and then spent several years in various leadership positions. In 2008, Busby became the sixth president of the ECFA, serving in that role until he retired in 2020. He is credited with overseeing a large increase in ECFA membership. Busby also wrote a few pieces for The Christian Post, focused on issues like how to navigate donation requests and the need for increased accountability of nonprofits. Busby is survived by his wife of 58 years, Claudette, two children, Julie and Alan, and four grandchildren. Grateful to be alive, Christians gather for worship in Fort Myers after surviving Hurricane Ian Four days after Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida as a powerful Category 4 storm, wreaking billions of dollars in damage and leaving at least 80 people dead, members of the Southwest Baptist Church in Fort Myers gathered at their battered sanctuary on Sunday to thank God for sparing their lives. We got people here that lost their homes. Weve got people here that we didnt hear of for quite a while, Senior Pastor Bob Kasten said during a clip from the service recorded by The Weather Channel. When Hurricane Ian slammed into Florida last Wednesday, it first hit the island of Cayo Costa with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph, not far from Fort Myers and Cape Coral. While many members of Southwest Baptist Church fled to safer ground as the storm rampaged through the beach town, some displaced members sought refuge at the church where flood waters soaked the floors and wind ripped holes in the roof, USA Today reported. Leaders at the church could not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Christian Post on Monday. Mark Helms, Southwest Baptist Churchs minister of music, shared photos on Facebook of the churchs toppled steeple and other damage. Right now, it still hasnt sunk in. I think right now theyre still kind of, at least with me, kind of numb, Pastor Stephen Kasten, Bob Kastens son, told The Weather Channel on Sunday. A lot of them are just grateful that they survived what they went through, and theyre praising God. Thats why were here today. Church member Greg Wathan, 62, said he fled his one-story home in his truck before the storm surge cut him off. He said he climbed into the bed of his pickup truck and was praying when he saw a woman in the water. I dont believe she was going to be able to stand up again and make her way. And I felt I couldnt get out the truck; the waves were moving too fast I wouldnt withstand it. So sincerely, I prayed for an outcome that would be good for everybody, he told The Weather Channel. After he prayed, Wathan said, it seemed like the lady was able to move through the water by the current closer to my truck where I could reach her hand. She was able to grab on my hand, and [I] eventually pulled her into the bed of the truck. And she just had a t-shirt on and in shorts and no shoes on, indicating that she got swept out of her driveway, he said. Other church members who are mainly retired older adults, like Adelgarde Frazee, 82, had their own stories of survival. Frazee told USA Today that she took refuge at the church ahead of the storm and recalled how she saw the surge nearly kill a man trying to drive away in his Jeep. It knocked his windshield out, threw him out of it. And he came floating down. He was fighting the current. He was trying to make it to the church stairs, she said. While he was grateful to see the members who survived the storm on Sunday, Stephen Kasten said he was also happy that many of the churchs members heeded warnings to evacuate the area before the storm. Last Sunday, I actually did a message where Jesus walked on water in the storm. And I was like whatever happens in the storm, well be here Sunday, he said. Well worship God no matter what. And so I think most of the church has that same feeling, and were just here to see who shows up. A lot of members, they did leave, and that was great. Megachurch pastor urges Christians to avoid a Judas-type syndrome A Texas megachurch pastor urged his congregation to avoid the "modern-day betrayal" of Jesus and warned against falling into what he called the trap of "different degrees" of "Judas-type syndrome" the act of denying or betraying Christ in today's society. The Rev. Terry K. Anderson, the senior pastor of Houston's Lilly Grove Missionary Baptist Church, preached a Sept. 25 message stressing the importance of Christians evaluating their relationships with Jesus daily and remaining humble through sincere repentance before God. The 63-year-old explained that genuine repentance to God is vital to avoid betraying Jesus just like Judas Iscariot, who famously betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. "There are two or three names in Scripture that are so infamous. No one has named their daughter 'Jezebel.' No one has named a good dog 'Judas,'" began Anderson. "Those two names, among others, live in infamy. We cannot help wondering about Judas. He wanted to reap position and prestige and prosperity and power because he thought Jesus' kingdom was an earthly kingdom. But, disappointment over Christ's failure to materialize the earthly kingdom on which he set his sights probably played a large part in Judas' decision to sell Jesus out." Anderson, who has pastored the Baptist house of worship since December 1990, emphasized that "any of us ... can be a Judas" within the modern-day Church. "We [often] pride ourselves that we are not like Judas. But are we?" Anderson inquired. "Judas represents all who reject the Messiah out of greed and selfish ambition. Judas was neither a hero nor a demon but a deeply flawed human being who did, in fact, betray his Lord." "All of us are flawed human beings," he added. "There are, brothers and sisters, degrees by which we fall into a Judas-type syndrome." Anderson listed examples of "how you can betray Jesus and not be named Judas," the first being that "you can betray by being a closet-Christian." He defined 'closet-Christian" as someone "who never tells anybody about your faith." "You can deny Jesus in a moment of intense pressure, wanting to fit in," Anderson stated. "That's betrayal." Another way is to be a "passive apostate," referencing James 5:19-20. Those verses highlight the importance of turning "a sinner from the error of their ways," which in turn "cover[s] over a multitude of sins." Anderson said that Judas' life showed that God allows all Christians the opportunity to choose whether or not they want to display sincere repentance for their sins. "Jesus chose him. Jesus knew who Judas was, and He still chose him. Jesus knows who I am, and He still chose me. Jesus knows who you are. Jesus knows what you are capable of. Jesus knows your sinful proclivity. Jesus knows that you will go left when you're supposed to go right. Jesus knows that you will fall. But, it's not the falling that sends you to Hell. It's the refusal to get back up," Anderson said. "I can't testify for you. I can only be a witness for myself. I did enough last week that God should have blotted my name out of the Book of Life. But, He says: 'whoever comes to me, I [will not] cast them out.' Jesus said: 'if you're in the Father, you're in Me. And I hold you in the palm of my hand, and the devil in Hell can't even pluck you out.'" Anderson warned against the idea that "Judas was born to be condemned" while acknowledging that he was known as the "son of perdition." "But Jesus chose him. And Jesus' choosing of him did not make Judas do what Judas did. Judas betrayed God, the Son of God because he made a human decision. And God saves us, but He does not take from us free will," Anderson said. "Because if God took our [free] will from us, that would make us puppets on a string. God does not make us love Him. God chooses us if we choose Him." Anderson cited Deuteronomy 30:19, in which Moses told the Hebrews, "that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life so that you and your children may live." "You don't have to choose [life], but the consequences of not making a choice is the same as the consequence of making a choice. Because not to choose is to choose," Anderson preached. Anderson compared and contrasted Judas with Peter, the disciple who denied knowing Jesus three times but later repented of his wrongdoing. "Both of them sinned. What Peter did was no worse than what Judas did. And what Judas did was no worse than what Peter did. Because there are no degrees of sin. All unrighteousness is sin," Anderson said. "Peter and Judas were both chosen by Jesus. Both of them were Jesus' disciples. Both sinned in the most crucial of ways and in the most crucial of moments. Peter is guilty of denial, while Judas is guilty of betrayal. And denial is not worse than betrayal. Denial and betrayal are two sides of the same coin. No one sin is greater than the other, but what happens after the sin is what makes us still talk about Peter." Anderson argued that "if Judas had come to Jesus like Peter did, Judas would have gotten saved, because God does not allow us to be born to condemn us." "Nobody is born so that God will send you to Hell just because you were born. You go to Hell because you refuse His invitation," Anderson stated. "Judas went out and hanged himself by his own choice. I've decided to follow Jesus. Some other folk have decided to follow Satan. The choice is yours. 'Jesus did not come into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.'" Air Force Fellowship For "Gender Minorities," Museum Of The Bible Returns Stolen Manuscript, RZIM VP Shares Regrets link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 08:08 08:08 House Republicans are urging the Justice Department to investigate cyberattacks on pro-life websites as the national discourse surrounding the issue of abortion grows increasingly heated following the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling determiningthat the U.S. Constitution does not contain a right to abortion. Leaders from the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. traveled to Greece this week to formally return a handwritten, 1,000-year-old, handwritten Gospel manuscript looted by Bulgarian troops in 1917. The nations largest Catholic civil rights organization is criticizing the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) for what it calls a problematic fellowship offered only to students who belong to a gender minority. A former executive for Ravi Zacharias International Ministries recently shared in a live panel discussion that she regrets not "pushing harder" when sexual abuse allegations against the late apologist Ravi Zacharias first emerged. Subscribe to this Podcast Hurricane Ian is one of the most devastating hurricanes that Florida has experienced. The damages that the state took have been massive. There have been relief reponses and help from the government as well as other states like Louisiana. AT&T announced on Thursday that they would be providing free access to their network for non-customers if their carriers have no service. The service includes unlimited access to data, calls, and texts. Other companies such as T-Mobile and Verizon have joined in on the offer on the same day. This is in response to the damage that the hurricane had caused, which has likely affected communication channels as well. Considering that an estimate of millions still have no access to power, and they are still unclear as to how many are injured or dead, according to 9To5Mac. Furthermore, calls for rescue and relief are partially dependent on the ability to reach out to them. Read Also: ISS Astronaut Snaps Photos of Hurricane Ian as It Hits Florida How Everyone Is Helping Florida Out After AT&T offered its free and unlimited services to help the victims, Verizon also stepped up and not only offered its services, they are already working on refueling generators at its cell sites as soon as they could. This is to ensure that people will have cell service throughout the tragedy. AT&T and Verizon will be providing their relief services of unlimited calling, texting, and data until October 4th, as well as T-Mobile, which will offer the same services until October 3rd. AT&T, Verizon, and T-mobile are also helping out with public safety agencies and emergency shelters, so they can be certain that the cellphone services are stable to maintain a connection. Apple CEO Tim Cook also offered relief efforts on the ground. Although they did not specify the kind of help they will be giving or how much they will donate, the help will be appreciated regardless. How Bad is the Damage Hurricane Ian Caused in Florida? Governor Ron DeSantis said that he had seen floating cars in the flood and concrete slabs where houses once stood. Over 700 stranded citizens have already been rescued. About 2.6 people still had no power, based on an article from New York Times. President Joe Biden has already declared that the hurricane's impact was a major disaster and released federal relief funds to the affected areas. A huge rescue effort has been ongoing, and at least ten people have already been found dead. The damages became clearer as the then tropical storm passed. Trees were toppled, storefronts were shattered, roads were ruined, and cars floated and when with the flow of the flood. Pictures of fishing boats and cruisers emerged, showing how they have piled on one another and were blown from to water to the shore. What You Should Do in the Aftermath As advised by American Red Cross, call your friends and family to let them know you are safe. If you evacuated before the storm, do not return to your homes before authorities declare it safe. Keep listening to the news for updates and keep children and pets away from floodwater to avoid sickness. Related Article: Mobile Apps to Use as Part of Your Emergency Preparedness Plan Senators demand answers after FBI arrests pro-life activist, say it may violate DOJ use-of-force policy A dozen Republican U.S. senators have sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI suggesting that federal agents may have violated use-of-force policy when they arrested a Catholic pro-life activist last week. The twelve Republican senators, most of whom are on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, led by ranking member Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, wrote a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and FBI Director Christopher Wray asking them to justify the show of force that accompanied the arrest of Mark Houck. Houck was indicted by a grand jury last Tuesday. The U.S. Department of Justice announced last Friday that it arrested Houck on charges of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The law subjects anyone who "intentionally injures, intimidates or interferes with or attempts to injure, intimidate or interfere with" any person who seeks to "provide reproductive health services" to federal charges. Houck is the president of The King's Men, a Catholic ministry created to "unite and build up other men in the mold of leader, protector, and provider through education, formation, healing, and action." The DOJ contends that "the defendant is alleged to have twice assaulted a man because he was a volunteer reproductive health care clinic escort," adding "the defendant forcefully shoved" the man to the ground on two separate occasions, one of which required him to receive medical attention. The altercation took place outside a Philadelphia Planned Parenthood on Oct. 13, 2021. However, the Houcks and their supporters contend that the father was protecting his 12-year-old son because the escort was harassing them and even got in his son's face after they tried to walk away from the man. A fundraiser set up on the Christian crowdfunding platform GiveSendGo to raise money for Houck's family states that the clinic escort began "harassing" Houck's then 12-year-old son, prompting Houck and his son to walk away from the front of the building where they had been praying. "The escort followed them, and when he continued yelling at Mark's son, Mark pushed him away," the fundraiser states. As of Thursday afternoon, the fundraiser has raised more than $335,000. The fundraiser reported that FBI agents "had guns drawn and shields up in the faces of Mark, his wife, and their seven young children." However, the FBI has refuted that description of last week's arrest at Houck's home. Published Wednesday, the senators' letter asks Garland if the FBI's actions went against his May 20 memo advising DOJ employees to use "de-escalation tactics and techniques" to gain "voluntary compliance from a subject before using force." The memo stressed that "such tactics and techniques should be employed if objectively feasible and they would not increase the danger to the officer or others" and highlighted how "reducing the need for force allows officers to secure their own safety as well as the safety of the public." The lawmakers questioned why using force was necessary because all indications from Houck's attorney are that Houck was more than willing to cooperate with the investigation, but DOJ officials stopped communicating with them. The letter discusses the contents of an email sent by Houck's attorney to an assistant U.S. attorney, which insisted that "if the Department intended to indict Mr. Houck, he would receive the summons on Mr. Houck's behalf and that he would appear voluntarily." The attorney "made clear to the committee that he and Mr. Houck were cooperative with the Justice Department; however, in return the Justice Department failed to communicate with them," the letter declared. One of Houck's attorneys, John Williamson, contends that the clinic escort filed a criminal complaint against Houck that was dismissed by authorities in Philadelphia after the escort failed to appear at least twice for the scheduled trial. Williamson further stated that the district attorney in the case suggested that the matter be settled as a civil case. The criminal complaint against Houck was dismissed on April 22. But five days later, Houck received a letter from the Justice Department informing him of an investigation into potential violations of the FACE Act. From that point on, Houck retained former federal prosecutor Matt Heffron as an attorney. "Mr. Heffron informed the committee that he communicated to Assistant U.S. Attorney Anita Eve twice via phone and left voice messages after she didn't pick up," the senators' letter states. "After not receiving a return call, Mr. Heffron emailed Ms. Eve to note that he left voice messages on May 21, 2022, and June 7, 2022, and said in his email that if the Department intended to indict Mr. Houck, he would receive the summons on Mr. Houck's behalf and that he would appear voluntarily. According to Mr. Heffron, Ms. Eve did not respond. Mr. Heffron made clear to the committee that he and Mr. Houck were cooperative with the Justice Department; however, in return the Justice Department failed to communicate with them." A picture attached with the letter documents the aftermath of the scene that unfolded at the Houcks' house on the morning of Sept. 23. The lawmakers said the photo was taken following Houck's arrest when "a few FBI agents remained to give [Mrs. Houck] a copy of the arrest warrant." The letter points out that "the photograph shows an agent with a ballistic shield and long gun." The letter concluded with a request for the federal government's top law enforcement agencies to answer a series of questions asking why they waited until 11 months after the altercation at the Philadelphia Planned Parenthood to indict Houck. The senators also seek clarification on how the execution of the warrant for Houck's arrest reconciled with Garland's May memorandum. The lawmakers requested responses to their inquiries by Oct. 12. "This extraordinary fact pattern requires additional information from the Justice Department and the FBI relating to why Mr. Houck was not allowed to self-report for his arrest and arraignment and whether political considerations were made to approve and execute the search warrant," the senators wrote. Houck's wife, Ryan-Marie Houck, appeared on Fox News Wednesday with her lawyer, characterizing the early-morning arrest of her husband as "devastating." She suggested that "it's hard to even express the victimization and how traumatized we all are due to this unnecessary thing that happened to us." She estimated that 20 to 30 FBI agents showed up at her property in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, to arrest her husband. "My entire front yard, you could barely see it, it was covered with at least 15 big trucks and cars," she recalled. She spoke of FBI agents "completely in jackets with shields and helmets and guns." When asked about the mental condition of her children nearly a week after the raid, Houck responded, "it's hard to tell." She contends, "the older ones, we can talk, we can cry we've had some counseling, we have more counseling to do." She said that among her youngest children, "there's a lot of crying and a lot of unrestful sleep" and "a lot of kids in our bed at night and in the morning." Peter Breen, an attorney with the Thomas More Society who is defending Houck, told Fox News that its telling that the district attorney in Philadelphia refused to press charges, noting that "he's not a friend" of the pro-life movement. "The alleged victim filed a private criminal complaint, which eventually the local courts threw out because the guy couldn't be bothered to show up for the hearings," Breen stated. The FBI previously issued a statement to Fox News attempting to clarify what the agency characterized as "inaccurate claims being made regarding the arrest of Mark Houck." The statement asserted that "No SWAT Team or SWAT operators were involved" and that "FBI agents knocked on Mr. Houck's front door, identified themselves as FBI agents and asked him to exit the residence." Court documents indicate that Houck was released on $10,000 bail Friday. Under the terms of his release, the pro-life activist must surrender his passport and firearms and cannot travel outside the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, where the case against him is unfolding, unless he is permitted to do so. In a blow to his ministry efforts, Houck cannot engage in sidewalk counseling and prayer at the Philadelphia Planned Parenthood where his encounters with the escort took place. The Thomas More Society webpage devoted to the efforts to defend Houck proclaims that "He would drive two hours every week to speak outside of abortion clinics for six to eight hours at a time, often bringing his twelve-year-old son." If convicted, Houck faces up to 11 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and up to $350,000 in fines. At least 23 reported dead in Florida as Hurricane Ian hits Carolinas, weakens into tropical storm UPDATED: Oct. 1 at 10 A.M. ET At least 23 people have been reported dead in Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian this week as the state begins to assess the damage from the historic storm that hit the Carolinas on Friday. The director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, Kevin Guthrie, said during a press briefing Friday that 21 deaths have been reported since the storm made landfall in the Sunshine State as a Category 4 hurricane Wednesday. Guthrie said that only one death from the hurricane had been confirmed so far, in central Florida's Polk County, an area that sustained heavy rains and significant flooding. The state is still trying to verify if the 20 other reported deaths are attributable to the storm or another cause. He said there were 12 unconfirmed fatalities in Charlotte County, where the hurricane made landfall on the southwest coast, and eight unconfirmed fatalities in Collier County. He added that the state is still processing searches in Lee County. "People die in disasters that have nothing to do with the disaster," Guthrie said. "The medical examiner is the one that makes that determination. They are the lead agency at the local level to determine when they investigate that this is either disaster-related or not disaster-related." In addition to the 21, Guthrie detailed another situation involving multiple fatalities in one house where the water level elevated above the roof. However, the state does not know how many human remains are in the house. He did not disclose where that house is located. "We do have an identified situation that was done during the hasty search of some fatalities. We do not know exactly how many were in the house," he said. "Let me paint the picture for you. The water was up over the rooftop. We had a Coast Guard rescue swimmer swim down into it and he identified that there appeared to be human remains. We don't know exactly how many." Guthrie said the state can't fully assess that situation until the water level recedes and special equipment can be brought in. Ian made landfall on Florida's west coast Wednesday afternoon, leaving over 2.5 million customers without power, mainly in the state's southwest and central regions, according to PowerOutage.us. Officials at the local level have also reported death counts. According to NBC News, local law enforcement reports that one person drowned in Volusia County while trying to drain his pool. A sheriff's spokesperson said that two people died in Sarasota County. A city manager in Sanibel Island reported that two people died. After a Thursday briefing with Federal Emergency Management Agency officials, President Joe Biden indicated that the loss of life from the hurricane could be "substantial," stating that he had spoken with commissioners who are "worried." The hurricane was downgraded to a tropical storm on Thursday before regaining strength as a hurricane as it struck South Carolina, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm was reportedly moving northeast at 10 mph with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph as it headed for South Carolina. After making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in South Carolina, Ian again weakened to a post-tropical storm around 5 p.m. on Friday, according to the National Hurricane Center. Storm surge watches and warnings are still in effect for coastal regions of North Carolina. "Ian's structure is similar to that of a powerful nor'easter, with most of the storm's rain and wind focused to the north and west of the center," AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski said in a Friday email newsletter. "But, make no mistake, Ian will hit with the force of a hurricane in the Carolinas, especially along the upper half of the South Carolina coast." Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse, led by evangelist Franklin Graham, said it is working with local authorities and church partners to assess which areas are in the greatest need of assistance. The organization is closely tracking the storm and mobilizing disaster response specialists and tractor trailers with relief supplies to the affected areas. "Hurricane Ian is going to impact the lives of millions of people," Graham said in a Thursday statement shared with The Christian Post. "We are praying for everyone in its path and already mobilizing our team to respond in Jesus' Name." John MacArthur warns Gov. Newsom his soul 'lies in grave, eternal peril' after abortion campaign Scathing open letter slams governor for 'shamelessly' misquoting Scripture A renowned Southern California pastor is calling upon Gov. Gavin Newsom to repent and respond to the Gospel for his controversial reelection campaign that invoked Scripture in defense of abortion. The open letter from Grace Community Church Pastor John MacArthur dated Sept. 29 quotes the Bible numerous times in response to the campaign earlier this month, which MacArthur said shamelessly misquoted Mark 12:31 for Newsoms own political purposes. You revealed to the entire nation how thoroughly rebellious against God you are when you sponsored billboards across America promoting the slaughter of children, whom He creates in the womb (Psalm 139:1316; Isaiah 45:912), wrote MacArthur. You further compounded the wickedness of that murderous campaign with a reprehensible act of gross blasphemy, quoting the very words of Jesus from Mark 12:31 as if you could somehow twist His meaning and arrogate His name in favor of butchering unborn infants, he added. According to MacArthur, Newsom used the name and the words of Christ to promote the credo of Molech (Leviticus 20:15). It would be hard to imagine a greater sacrilege. The letter also called out what MacArthur described as the diabolical effect of Newsoms worldview, pointing to Californias epidemics of crime, homelessness, sexual perversions (like homosexuality and transgenderism), and other malignant expressions of human misery that stem directly from corrupt public policy. Rather than staging a political defense, however, MacArthur voiced personal concern for Newsoms soul, which, he said, lies in grave, eternal peril. You will stand in the presence of the Holy God who created you, who is your Judge, and He will demand that you give an account for how you have flouted His authority in your governing, and how you have twisted His own Holy Word to rationalize it. As you look over the precipice of eternity, what will your answer be? wrote MacArthur. He closed the letter by telling the governor that Grace Community Church located in Sun Valley, California, and "countless Christians nationwide, are praying for your full repentance." MacArthur called upon Newsom to please respond to the Gospel, forsake the path of wickedness you have pursued all your life, turn to Christ, ask for forgiveness, and use your office to advance the cause of righteousness (as is your duty) instead of undermining it (as has been your pattern). A request for comment from Newsom made Friday by The Christian Post was not immediately returned. Newsom launched the billboard campaign Sept. 15 after he posted images on social media showing billboards set to go up in Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, and four other "anti-freedom" states where abortion is prohibited or significantly restricted. Newsom's tweet read in part: "To any woman seeking an abortion in these anti-freedom states: CA will defend your right to make decisions about your health." Newsom tagged several Republican governors, including Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, with whom he shared a billboard image that reads: "Need an abortion? California is ready to help." In July 2020, MacArthur famously defied Newsoms mandate banning in-person worship services when he announced that his church would continue to hold in-person services. About two weeks after California indefinitely closed churches and other businesses in more than 30 of the state's 58 counties as part of its response to the coronavirus, author and theologian MacArthur has given a biblical basis for his decision. Compliance would be disobedience to our Lords clear commands, he wrote in a statement to the congregation on Friday. Government officials have no right to interfere in ecclesiastical matters in a way that undermines or disregards the God-given authority of pastors and elders, MacArthur wrote. Sean Feucht says Christian leaders' reaction to worship tour during COVID was 'painful wake-up call' It is shocking to see how quickly and easily we are swayed into believing a lie. Worship leader and activist Sean Feucht isnt talking about theology or even church denominationalism hes talking about the reaction of some in the Christian community to the COVID-19 lockdowns. In an appearance on Fox Nations Tucker Carlson Today, Feucht spoke about his upcoming documentary, Superspreader, which tells the story of how the worship leader launched a series of rallies nationwide during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic. Feucht recalled how he was shocked with the number of pastors and other leaders who complied with the mandates after government officials restricted or banned public gatherings and worship services in cities across California and around the country. He said it was when Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order prohibiting singing in churches even as casinos, strip clubs and marijuana dispensaries remained open for business that flipped the switch for him. At that point, Feucht said he received calls and messages from underground church leaders whom he knew from serving on missionary work in Iraq, Saudi Arabia and other countries who reached out and asked him, What is going on in California? I thought this was supposed to be America? I wasnt surprised the government was doing what it was doing, especially in California, Feucht told Carlson. We know these people. Theyre crazy. They target the church. Feucht then started a Let Us Worship petition to keep churches open amid the pandemic. After the petition garnered more than 100,000 signatures, Feucht held his first open worship at the Golden Gate Bridge in July 2020. About 400 people showed up to the event, where Feucht recalled encountering a police officer who told him he was on suicide patrol for the bridge. The officer told Feucht that 10 different officers who worked the bridge were unable to stop the number of people who were jumping off at that point. He said, What are you guys doing here? and I said, Were coming to pray, Feucht explained. And he said, What took you guys so long? He said, 'More people are dying from suicide and depression, where is the Church? From there, Feucht took the Let Us Worship event up and down the California coast; in Huntington Beach, a thousand people showed up to gather in worship, while 5,000 attended the San Diego event. We start to realize, this is a movement, somethings happening, Feucht said. He even took the tour to Portland, where at that point in 2020, Antifa was burning Bibles and causing havoc during the riots. After a chaplain from the Portland police department called and asked him to call off the event because we cant control our own city, Feucht decided to go anyway and 7,000 people showed up even as Antifa was spraying bear spray into the crowd while they worshiped. Part of being a Christian and part of the call of the Gospel is to take light into darkness. And at that point, the two darkest places in America were Portland and Seattle, he said. It was important for Americans to see that there is a courageous church unwilling to back down. Perhaps the most challenging aspect of the tour for Feucht was getting other Christian artists involved. Feucht also said despite being on a major Christian record label knowing all these musicians, knowing all these Christians, as he put it he was unable to find anyone to join him on this mission. Everyone was scared, he said. They thought it wasnt right, they didnt want to be put in harms way. Eventually, Feucht hooked up with a group of Russian immigrants who decided to join him on the tour, but it was the reaction to Let Us Worship from Christian leaders that Feucht said was probably the biggest, most painful wakeup call for me. Were writing these songs about overcoming darkness, were doing these conferences and these events and these sermons, and here in a time when we step out, I found that oftentimes politicians on the right had my back more than a lot pastors did, he said. It really exposed a lot, fractured some relationships. In the interview, Feucht specifically named Evangelical leaders Rick Warren and Ed Stetzer as two prominent Christians who voiced their opposition to the worship movement. Their whole saying was vax, mask, vax, mask,' he said. Feuchts ministry hasnt been without controversy: a Rolling Stone investigation in July obtained his IRS records and found Sean Feucht Ministries Inc. reported more than $5.3 million in revenue for 2020, a massive increase from the approximately $283,272 the ministry reported in 2019. While Rolling Stone described the windfall as curious, Feucht accused the magazine of sending reporters to spy on our prayer team, tweeting, The mainstream media will stop at nothing to attack Christians. Yet, weve seen God use this stuff to even change the reporters' hearts! In 2020, the father of four also unsuccessfully ran for Congress to represent Californias 3rd District. New York Times admits that hundreds of top surgeries are being performed on children The legacy media has changed its mind. We are now informed that life-changing transgender surgeries on minors are real and that theyre spectacular. Just a month ago, when the Twitter account LibsofTikTok revealed videos and audio from Boston Childrens Hospital talking about various transgender surgeries (such as hysterectomies) and treatments, legacy media pumped out a wave of fact checks insisting that this was all conspiracy theory. To suggest that Boston Childrens Hospital would do what it was advocating in public videos and private audio was hateful, dangerous, right-wing conspiracy theory, you see. Well, now we are informed by The New York Times that top surgeries are being performed on girls in hospitals all over the country. Oh. The ink barely had dried on the old narrative, and now weve slid on down the slippery slope to the new one. We've naturally moved to the next stage from "this isn't happening" to "actually it is happening and it's good."https://t.co/sb1TecyYG2 pic.twitter.com/0YYDMJJPa4 Stephen L. Miller (@redsteeze) September 26, 2022 In an extensive piece written by Azeen Ghorayshi and published Monday, The New York Times reported on how transgender top surgeries for minors have become a growing phenomenon. When reporters say top surgeries, they often mean mastectomy the total removal of female breast tissue though the Times article never uses this word. Top surgery, Miriam Grossman writes in City Journal, is a euphemism for a bilateral mastectomy the removal of both breasts in order to create, as gender surgeons put it, a masculinized chest. Its a procedure more often associated with women who have breast cancer. For boys who want to transition to girls, top surgery means breast implants. The Times article clearly frames these surgeries on teens as a positive development with criticism of the surgeries left to the end of the piece, which most readers arent likely to reach. As Manhattan Institute scholar Kay Hymowitz explained on Twitter, the framing of the piece seems to be intended to show how conservatives and opponents of transgender procedures on minors are turning an intensely personal medical decision into a political maelstrom. The only people who possibly could stand in opposition, according to this narrative, are unempathetic, mean conservatives who hate science and medicine. Regardless of framing, the Times piece still drops tidbits about this growing industry that are worth noting. The Times profiled one doctor in particular, Dr. Sidhbh Gallagher, a Miami plastic surgeon who has become a celebrity of sorts on social media. The top of the article includes a photo of her posing in front of one of those science is real, black lives matter, no human is illegal, blah, blah, blah woke liturgy signs. As demand has grown, Dr. Gallagher, the surgeon in Miami, has built a thriving top surgery specialty, the Times story reads. The doctor frequently posts photos, FAQs and memes on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, proudly flouting professional mores in favor of connecting with hundreds of thousands of followers. Gallagher sells the idea of performing these surgeries with cringing memes, apparently meant to appeal to teenagers. She includes photos on her social media accounts labeled #NipRevealFriday, where she shows patients removing bandages where theyve had their surgeries. On her office windowsill sits a framed nameplate with one of her best-known catchphrases on TikTok: Yeet the Teet, slang for removing breasts, the Times article reports. Hey, kid, want some candy? Come jump into my van for earlier generations has been replaced by Hey, kid, wanna yeet the teet? Come step into my office. Medical doctors are hawking life-changing drugs and procedures to kids with trendy slogans. This, apparently, is a good thing, according to the experts. Quick morality update: Marketing medical procedures directly to children too young to understand their ramiifcations is ? good ? now ?https://t.co/hg2O2I6vCQ pic.twitter.com/ZPwLbjWmb8 Jesse Singal (@jessesingal) September 26, 2022 Is there now a perverse incentive for hospitals, surgeons, and pharmaceutical companies to normalize expensive gender-transition drugs and surgeries? It sure seems like it. If it also makes them liberals in good standing, on the right side of history, all the better. Apparently, Gallagher is just one of the more prominent surgeons eagerly promoting and performing these drastic, life-altering surgeries on minors. The Times reports: Dr. Gallagher, whose unusual embrace of platforms like TikTok has made her one of the most visible gender-affirming surgeons in the country, said she performed 13 top surgeries on minors last year, up from a handful a few years ago. One hospital, Kaiser Permanente Oakland, carried out 70 top surgeries in 2019 on teenagers aged 13 to 18, up from five in 2013, according to researchers who led a recent study. This number is likely even higher today, given the explosion of transgender identity in young people and teens in just the past few years. According to a survey by The New York Times: Eleven clinics said they carried out a total of 203 procedures on minors in 2021, and many reported long waiting lists. Another nine clinics declined to respond, and six said that they referred patients to surgeons in private practice. These surgeries are happening. But as far as the depth and scope, what is public knowledge may be only the tip of the iceberg. The Times cites doctors and studies dismissing the idea that some minors who went under the knife ended up feeling regret over their decision. The piece acknowledges, though, that the follow-up with those whove had the surgery has been nonexistent or spotty at best. One study had serious caveats, the Times piece said, where most patients were surveyed less than two years after their surgeries, and nearly 30% could not be contacted or declined to participate. And the Times story, to its credit, did include an interesting story about Gallagher. The surgeon said she didnt know of a single case of regret. However, the Times notes that one of her patients, Grace Lidinsky-Smith, has been vocal about her detransition. I slowly came to terms with the fact that it had been a mistake borne out of a mental health crisis, Lidinsky-Smith said, according to the Times. Yikes. When Lidinsky-Smith called Gallaghers office to express regret just over a year after the surgery, Gallagher said she thought it was a hoax. Its the kind of out-of-hand dismissal of objections to gender transitioning thats become so common in the woke institutional complex. Much of the research in this area is incomplete and shallow, as even The New York Times piece admits. Evidence that contradicts the preferred narrative is quickly dismissed. According to research by The Heritage Foundation, for instance, a jump in youth suicide occurred in states that allow minors to get gender-affirming care, as the Left calls it, without parental consent. You wont find this research positively cited by legacy media, if its discussed at all. But its deeply important public knowledge when gender surgeries are promoted as a method to stop youth suicide. If anything, given the possible ramifications of puberty blockers and related surgeries on minors, one would think there would be widespread institutional skepticism of the idea that gender-affirming care is an unalloyed good. Yet the opposite is the case, even though a majority of Americans have reservations and, in many cases, serious objections. Female genital mutilation is bad if its done for religious reasons, ignored if done by an anointed oppressed religious minority, and good if its done for the purpose of self-affirmation and called bottom surgery. Thats the mindset of the modern Left, which now dominates in institutions of real power. How many more children will be sacrificed on the altar of this new public religion? Originally published at The Daily Signal. When God gave His Holy Spirit to simple men in great abundance On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther, now in his mid-thirties, made his way to the Castle Church in Wittenberg and posted his 95 Theses on the church door. Originally intended as propositions for public debate, the theses were written in Latin the language of the scholar, not of the street. Luther could have had no idea that they would echo around Europe and become the catalyst for a spiritual revolution. Many of those who saw the papers on the Castle Church door which seems to have served as a public notice board would not have been able to read Latin. But soon the theses were translated into German and thereafter spread throughout Europe like wildfire indeed, like an act of God. What were the 95 Theses? They were statements aimed directly at specific corruptions in the church of Luthers day, many of them related to issues of pardon, purgatory, and the power of the pope. The first of them was particularly startling: By saying Repent, our Lord and Master Jesus Christ willed that the whole of the life of believers should be repentance. (Dominus et magister noster Iesus Christus dicendo Poenitentiam agite etc. omnem vitam fidelium poenitentiam esse voluit.) Luther had grasped that the Vulgate translation of Repent (poenitentiam agite) was open to the misinterpretation Do penitence (or penance). And he had also grasped a principle that John Calvin would later expound with great clarity: penitence or repentance is not the action of a moment; it is the turning around of a life the rejection of sin effected by the gracious work of the Holy Spirit. It cannot therefore be a single act completed in a moment; it is a style of life that lasts until glory. Luther led a full and adventurous life that only an extensive biography can well describe. He was a remarkable man with enormous God-given energy. His speech was direct and plain and not infrequently earthy. He was a teacher of theology, a preacher of the Gospel, and an author of some of the most important books in the Reformation period. Notable among his early publications was his On the Babylonian Captivity of the Church, which exposed the churchs failures, while in On the Freedom of a Christian he explained how in Jesus Christ believers are set free both to love God and to serve their neighbor. Thus he wrote in a beautifully crafted sentence that captures the paradox of the Gospel-centered life: A Christian man is the most free lord of all, and subject to none; a Christian man is the most dutiful servant of all, and subject to everyone. By his preaching, by writing, and especially by his influence in the explanation of salvation by grace through faith in Christ, Luther was used by God to transform the Christian church. The leading Reformers in England and Scotland were influenced by his writings, often smuggled in by merchant sailors. In Scotland in particular, the martyrs of St. Andrews, Patrick Hamilton and George Wishart (whose bodyguard John Knox had been), were disciples of Luthers teaching. Likewise in England, the heroic William Tyndale left a legacy not only in his English translation of the Bible but in an entire body of literature that echoed the German Reformers work. But what did Luther teach? His chief emphases are aptly summarized in the well-known Reformation solas: 1. sola Scriptura: we come to know God through Scripture alone, not through the traditions of the church as such; 2. sola gratia: we come to receive forgiveness by Gods grace alone, not because we are able to earn merit; 3. sola fide: we receive justification by faith alone, and not by faith plus something else; 4. solus Christus: all of Gods riches are given to us in Christ alone; 5. soli Deo gloria: the goal of all of life is the glory of God alone. These principles simply underlined the emphases Luther found in Scripture. But in context, what is most significant about them is not only what they stressed but what they bypassed. Neither Luther nor the other magisterial Reformers despised the Church. But they saw the Church as only a witness to and a powerful illustration of salvation by grace not the dispenser of that salvation. In a sense, then, the Church had not only failed to teach the Gospel rightly; it had usurped the role of the Holy Spirit in salvation. It was the reestablishing of the Spirits ministry in the application of redemption that brought such a sense of the immediacy of Gods grace and the joy and relief of pardon and new life in Christ. It is to Christ alone and not to the mediation of the Church that we need to turn for grace and salvation. We have not discussed here the other great Reformers Huldrych Zwingli and Heinrich Bullinger, John Calvin and John Knox, and many others. But even this brief glance at Luther and his influence shows that the sixteenth century was a monumental period in the history of the Christian church. It was not without its faults, nor without its failures. But Christians in those days were bursting with the power and the energy of this great discovery that the burden of their sins had been taken by Jesus Christ and they, at last, could be set free. These were days, as Knox explained, when God gave His Holy Spirit to simple men in great abundance. That is what we still need! This article was first published in Tabletalk, the Bible study magazine of Ligonier Ministries. Find out more at TabletalkMagazine.com or subscribe today at GetTabletalk.com. Ukraine President Zelensky requests fast-track NATO membership after Putin annexes 4 regions As the Russian invasion enters its seventh month, Ukraine is seeking an accelerated membership in NATO and has ruled out talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who announced the annexation of four Ukrainian provinces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the NATO application papers in an online video posted to the Telegram app in an apparent response to the Kremlin after Putin held a ceremony in Moscow to proclaim its rule over 15% of Ukraine, or the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, Reuters reported Friday. It is a decisive step to protect the entire community of Ukrainians, Zelensky said in the video, according to The Guardian. De facto, we have already made our way to NATO. De facto, we have already proven compatibility with alliance standards. They are real for Ukraine real on the battlefield and in all aspects of our interaction, he said. We trust each other, we help each other, and we protect each other. This is the alliance. De facto. Today, Ukraine is applying to make it de jure. Zelensky added that Kyiv is still committed to co-existing with Russia but on equal, honest, dignified and fair conditions. Clearly, with this Russian president (that) is impossible. He does not know what dignity and honesty are. Therefore, we are ready for a dialogue with Russia, but with another president of Russia, he said, according to the newswire. Putin claimed that residents in the annexed Ukrainian regions voted in a referendum earlier this week to join his nation. Ukrainian officials called the voting coerced by Russian soldiers. The Kremlins sham referenda are a futile effort to mask what amounts to a further attempt at a land grab in Ukraine, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. To be clear: the results were orchestrated in Moscow and do not reflect the will of the people of Ukraine. However, Brussels appeared to be cautious with Ukraines application to join the intergovernmental military alliance, which would have to actively defend Ukraine as a fellow member in the midst of the war. Both the alliance and the United States are instead pledging only unwavering support for Kyiv at this time. The U.S. has sent more than $9.8 billion in civilian and military assistance to Ukraine since Russias invasion began in February. USAID Administrator Samantha Power commented earlier this year that as the assault on Ukraines public services continues, the United States is rushing in with financial support to help the government keep the lights on, provide essential services to innocent citizens and pay the health care workers who are providing lifesaving support on the frontlines. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden on Friday signed a bill funding the federal government through Dec. 16 to avoid a partial government shutdown, and it includes an additional $12.3 billion for Ukraines war effort against Russia. Apart from Ukraine aid and funding for government agencies, the bill authorizes Biden to direct the drawdown of up to $3.7 billion for the transfer of excess weapons to Ukraine from U.S. stocks, the newswire added. According to the United Nations Office for High Commissioner for Human Rights, as of Sept. 26, at least 5,996 civilians have been killed and 8,848 injured since the invasion started on Feb. 24. The summers final Live on the Waterfront concert was held Wednesday evening at Prince Arthurs Landing. The popular series in Thunder Bay has completed nine weekly shows that began on July 13. Wednesdays concert was unique as it was held one hour later in the evening to mesh with the 10 p. From the directors of 'The Babadook' and 'Mandy', Guillermo del Toro's 'Cabinet of Curiosities' is out with its brand new trailer, and it is spine-chilling. With Halloween just around the corner, the new Netflix anthology series unveils another binge-worthy story in a new trailer earlier this week, Collider reports. 'Cabinet of Curiosities' is A Twisted Horror Series for Thrillseekers Out on October 25 with its first two episodes to premiere, Guillermo del Toro's eight-part anthology series provides a horrifying snapshot into his world through the trailer. According to Gizmodo, the new trailer provides a downright creepy look at the cast of characters' encounters with ghosts, monsters, and even murderers, setting a hair-raising atmosphere for its viewers. "Picture your minds like a cabinet, where you lock up your darkest thoughts and deepest fears," Guillermo Del Toro says about the latest horror treat that gives a peek at his cabinet for the world to see, AV Club writes. 'Cabinet of Curiosities' is the brainchild of the Oscar-winning director, who had a hand in its creation, executive production, and showrunning. A Diverse Lineup of Stories Told In Different Ways The new trailer for del Toro's 'Cabinet of Curiosities' allowed the viewers to have a taste of what is coming with a teaser for each episode, says Collider. With specifics about the series being a secret to the audience, the new trailer sets up each tale and highlights the stories and actors, unlike the development-centered trailer released in August, according to Gizmodo. It is revealed that this collection of thrilling stories will challenge traditional notions of horror through genre-defining storylines from macabre to magical types to gothic and grotesque stories, AV Club reports. The original sinister stories will not only be told from del Toro's point of view but also from the creative lens of different directors who worked on six of the episodes that will be introduced in the installment. The Netflix anthology series will include titles such as 'Lot 36,' 'Dreams of the Witch House,' 'Graveyard Rats,' 'Pickman's Model,' 'The Autopsy,' 'The Murmuring,' 'The Outside,' and 'The Viewing,' which will be released in pairs with introductions from del Toro himself, according to Rappler. Gizmodo writes that Guillermo del Toro's 'Cabinet of Curiosities' stars horror staple Rupert Grint from Servant and a top-billed cast that includes big names such as F. Murray Abraham, Andrew Lincoln, Essie Davies, Hannah Galway, and David Hewlet, among others. The Pan's Labyrinth director promises a chilling and exciting journey for those viewers who will be brave enough to take on the whole journey through each episode of 'Cabinet of Curiosities'. Guillermo del Toro is known for his masterful storytelling of the horror-fantasy genre, which is evident in his work on critically acclaimed films like 'The Shape of Water,' 'Pacific Rim,' 'Hellboy,' 'The Book of Life,' and 'Mama' to name a few, Rappler reports. Peace and Development: Key Message of President Xis Central Asia Visit Before the Party Congress 11:14, October 03, 2022 By Yi Fan ( People's Daily Online Chinese President Xi Jinping just concluded his visit to Central Asia and attendance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit. As the much anticipated, twice-in-a-decade national congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is less than one month away, this visit naturally attracts much attention from international observers: what is the key message of President Xis first travel overseas since the pandemic began? What is Chinas solution to the challenges in this complex and uncertain world? Under the leadership of President Xi, China has committed itself to advance dialogue and cooperation, promoting unity and openness, and safeguarding peace and development. As a constructive force in international relations, China is playing an increasingly important role in ensuring the long-term stability and sustainable development of the world. To promote peace and security, the two defining themes of our times, and address global challenges, President Xi has proposed the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and Global Development Initiative (GDI). The Central Asian visit gives us some rough ideas about how these two initiatives are relevant to the region and the world. Preserving Peace With a New Approach to Security Peace and security are interdependent. In todays world, profound changes in major-power relations, the spillover of geopolitical conflicts, the resurgence of unilateralism, group politics and the Cold War mentality, and the emergence of non-traditional security issues have all created immense pressure on global peace and security. This is why China proposed the GSI: to address the peace deficit and pursue security for all, by promoting a shared commitment to common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security. During the SCO Summit, President Xi further elaborated on this initiative to the participating leaders, especially its unique value in resolving issues like Afghanistan. He called for a balanced, effective, and sustainable security architecture, and announced substantive measures to help maintain peace and security in the region, including training 2,000 law enforcement personnel for SCO member states in the next five years and setting up a China-SCO base for training counter-terrorism personnel. When meeting bilaterally with Central Asian leaders, President Xi reiterated Chinas support for their efforts to uphold national independence, sovereignty, and security, and voiced opposition to external interference in domestic affairs. Chinas commitment to cooperation and show of support was widely applauded by the Central Asian leaders, which will generate even stronger momentum for security cooperation among regional countries under the GSI. Pursuing Development Through Open and Inclusive Cooperation As President Xi noted in his SCO speech, Human society has both sunny and rainy days in its development. And the global picture of development is by no means sunny at the moment. Supply chain disruptions, energy, and food crises as well as uncertainties caused by the pandemic and regional conflicts are putting economies under strain. The deficit in development has only widened in recent years, and members of the Global South are finding it even more difficult to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). People around the world are looking for a solution to these problems, a way to navigate through the rainy days. Many have shared their ideas, and Chinas proposal, most aptly captured by the GDI, is for countries to foster a global development partnership for more robust, greener and more balanced global development. Being close neighbors of China, the Central Asian countries are well positioned to play a leading role in delivering the vision of the GDI and benefit from its implementation, just as their active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has proven. Since the launch of the BRI nearly a decade ago, major infrastructure projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan highway and the China-Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan railway have helped Uzbekistan, a land-locked country on the ancient Silk Road, transform into a land-linked country. The China-Kazakhstan International Logistics Base in the coastal Chinese city of Lianyungang has made it possible for Kazakhstan to ship its products through the Pacific Ocean to the world. To further develop cooperation with its Central Asian neighbors, President Xi pledged to step up cooperation in a broad range of areas, including agriculture, energy, supply chains, and innovation. He also announced the plan to provide developing countries in need with 1.5 billion RMB yuan worth of emergency humanitarian assistance, and offer satellite data services to support regional countries in agricultural development, connectivity, and disaster mitigation and relief. Aligned with the needs of Central Asian countries, the GDI will open up broader prospects for sustainable development in the region. The Party Congress Will Reinforce Chinas Commitment to Peace and Development Unsurprisingly, as the 20th CPC National Congress will soon be convened in October, the world is all eyes on China. People outside China are eager to learn what new policies China would introduce after the Party Congress and what they mean to the world. During his visit, President Xi answered some of these questions by conveying a message of confidence, a message warmly received by his counterparts. The CPC will formulate programs of action and overarching policies to meet Chinas new development goals and new expectations of the people, President Xi said. Demonstrating Chinas unwavering commitment and sense of responsibility, he also reaffirmed that the country will continue to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, create new opportunities for the world with new advances in its development, and contribute its vision and strength to world peace and development and human progress. Actions speak louder than words. This is a value cherished in China and across the world. As uncertain as the journey ahead may be, one thing is certain: China, under the leadership of the CPC, will remain as committed as ever to peace and development of the region and being a force for good in the world. The author is a Beijing-Based Observer of International Affairs. Source: Brown Land News. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) Students and faculty members of the second largest school district in the US are now at risk of being victims of a cyberattack. Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho recently confirmed that a "criminal organization" leaked the data it stole during its cyberattack in early September following the school district's refusal to pay the demanded ransom money. The school district is now providing aid to concerned students, parents, and employees who may suspect that their data was exposed. LAUSD Leaked Data Details Carvalho mentioned in a Twitter announcement that the school district's experts had partnered with law enforcement to analyze the "full extent" of the releasing of the data stolen by a "criminal organization" during its cyberattack on the school district's IT systems in early September. The leaking of the stolen data is the result of the school district's decision not to pay the demanded ransom money in favor of spending it on its students than "capitulating" to the criminal organization. "Los Angeles Unified remains form that dollar must be used to fund students and education," the school district said in a statement on Sept. 30. You may remember that the LAUSD detected an "unusual activity" in its IT systems on Sept. 3, which targeted the school district's facilities systems consisting of information about private-sector contractor payments. According to a report from Bleeping Computer, the Vice Society Ransomware Gang was found to be the "criminal organization" responsible for the cyberattack in early September and the one that recently leaked the school district's data. Read More: Clubs, Players Take to Twitter to React to the Indonesian Soccer Match Stampede That Killed At Least 174 People As a result of the school district's refusal to pay the ransom money, the gang updated its LAUSD entry on its data leak site with a link to the data it stole. It also included a message for the federal cyber-security agency CISA, which published a national warning about the gang's penchant for targeting educational institutions. According to the gang's updated LAUSD page, it said that CISA wasted its time, and, in return, it "wasted CISA's reputation." Although the school district has yet to confirm what data was stolen and leaked, a quick look at the link the gang gave revealed that it may have made students' and employees' social security numbers, passport information, and other "secret and confidential" data. The gang may have also leaked students' confidential psychological assessments, contract and legal documents, business records, and many database entries, per a law enforcement source for NBC Los Angeles. LAUSD's Response To The Leak LAUSD stated that it would notify the people whose data was leaked by the Vice Society Ransomware Gang and that it would provide free credit monitoring services to protect them. However, since sensitive personal information was leaked, it is advised that all students, parents, and employees must be on alert for any possible phishing campaigns that utilize the leaked information against them. Freezing their credit is also recommended to prevent identity theft or financial fraud. Related Article: The Los Angeles Unified School District Falls Victim to Ransomware Attack How to immigrate to Canada from South Africa Canada plans to welcome over 450,000 newcomers by 2024. How to immigrate to Canada from South Africa Canada plans to welcome over 450,000 newcomers by 2024. How to immigrate to Canada from South Africa Canada plans to welcome over 450,000 newcomers by 2024. Edana Robitaille Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif Sans Font Size A A Canadas high standard of living and a global reputation for safety and stability make it a popular destination for South Africans seeking a new home abroad. Canada is always on the lookout for global talent to make up for a growing labour shortage in several sectors. This is largely due to Canadas aging population and low birth rate. Canada offers over 100 immigration pathways for those who are looking to start the next phase of their life and seeks to welcome over 450,000 new permanent residents by the end of 2024. Some pathways are more popular than others and its a good idea to get familiar with them so you can decide if they are the best option for you and your family. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Express Entry Most skilled workers who immigrate to Canada come through Express Entry, which is an application management system that works with three programs; the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). These programs aim to assess a candidates qualifications based on specific criteria and rank them alongside other candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). CRS scores are based on factors such as education, language ability, work experience and other human capital factors such as age. The higher the CRS score, the more likely a candidate is to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Language ability is one of the most influential factors in a CRS score. This can give South Africans an advantage as the English is one of the official languages of Canada. The first step for those who are interested in an Express Entry program is for a candidate to self-evaluate if they are eligible for one of the programs and uploads their profile on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Once a profile is complete, candidates will get their CRS score and be ranked against other candidates in Express Entry pool. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) Of all Express Entry programs, the Federal Skilled Worker Program is the most popular pathway for those who have work experience and education outside of Canada and wish to immigrate permanently. It was the first program in the world to feature a points system designed to evaluate candidates impartially and has been the basis for similar programs in other countries. The first step to becoming a FSWP candidate is to self-evaluate if you meet the minimum eligibility requirements: At least one year of skilled work experience A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark of 7 on their English or French language test At least one educational credential Demonstrate proof of funds (if applicable) Get at least 67 out of 100 points on the FSWP scoring grid What to do if you are eligible If you are eligible for the FSWP, you can create a profile on the IRCC website. Once your profile has been uploaded, you will receive your CRS score and enter the pool. IRCC resumed Express Entry draws on July 6 this year. The draws, in which the candidates with the highest CRS scores are issued an ITA, typically occur every two weeks. The CRS score changes with every draw so even if you are not invited in one draw, you may still be invited in the next. IRCC has a processing standard of six months for 80% of all Express Entry applications. If you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit your application for permanent residence to IRCC. Provincial nomination programs (PNP) Along with Express Entry, the PNP is among the two major ways to immigrate to Canada through the economic class. All provinces, except for Quebec and Nunavut, have Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs allow provincial governments to select the candidates they feel are the best fit for the province. Provinces can invite candidates from the Express Entry pool who they feel best suit the province to apply directly to the provincial government for nomination, a process known as enhanced nomination. Candidates who may not be in the Express Entry pool can submit an application to directly to the province to be considered. Provincial nomination can act as a huge boost for Express Entry as those who obtain a provincial nomination are automatically given 600 CRS points and become highly likely to receive an ITA. Conclusion Canada enjoys one of the highest standards of living in the world and is overall an extremely safe country for newcomers. South Africans wishing to immigrate to Canada are in an advantageous position as a shared language makes it more likely they will get a high CRS score and anyone from around the globe might benefit from Canadas increasingly high targets for permanent residents. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration CIC News All Rights Reserved. Visit CanadaVisa.com to discover your Canadian immigration options. Thunder Bay, Ontario offers many job opportunities to newcomers to Canada, including in the booming mining industry. Join the Jobs Boom: Northwestern Ontario is the next mining powerhouse Thunder Bay, Ontario offers many job opportunities to newcomers to Canada, including in the booming mining industry. Join the Jobs Boom: Northwestern Ontario is the next mining powerhouse Thunder Bay, Ontario offers many job opportunities to newcomers to Canada, including in the booming mining industry. Join the Jobs Boom: Northwestern Ontario is the next mining powerhouse Thunder Bay, Ontario offers many job opportunities to newcomers to Canada, including in the booming mining industry. Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif Sans Font Size A A As a regional exploration hub, mining is big business in Thunder Bay. Approximately 850 Thunder Bay residents work at mines, and 400 Thunder Bay mine service and supply companies support mining. In recent years, new discoveries and a strong metals market have driven interest in exploration and mining in Northwestern Ontario. Similar in size to France, Northwestern Ontario is a vast land of minerals with gold production from five mines, and soon to be six. The Lac des Iles mine north of Thunder Bay is the only pure play palladium mine in Canada. In addition, 15 major exploration projects are Northwestern Ontarios future producing mines! Discover the benefits of moving to Thunder Bay! As of 2016, there were 1,770 jobs classified as directly part of the mining industry in Thunder Bay. However, many more jobs indirectly make up the mining labour force as they provide support and service to the industry. This includes manufacturing, transportation, warehousing, and utilities work. Thunder Bay is home to a highly educated and diversified skilled trades labour force. Industry experts estimate there are approximately 6,000 trades people in Northwestern Ontario who work in the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors. In 2016, 8.9% of the Thunder Bay labour force had some type of apprenticeship, trades certificate or diploma. This is higher than the 6% average across the province of Ontario. Critical minerals consist of the metals cobalt, copper, nickel, uranium, lithium, magnesium, platinum group metals, rare earth elements and others, and are vital in aerospace, telecommunications, computing, and an array of clean technology industries. Canada ranks among the top five exports of various critical minerals including platinum group metals, nickel, cobalt, and graphite. Northwestern Ontario currently has eight advanced critical mineral exploration sites, including lithium, graphite, copper and platinum group metals (palladium) providing an opportunity for the province to become a leading jurisdiction in critical mineral production. Critical minerals like lithium and graphite also require processing of the raw mined material to create a useable product, presenting an opportunity for Northwestern Ontario to become a leader in the chemical processing and conversion of critical minerals to provide products for clean technologies such as batteries for electric vehicles and large scale electrical grid energy storage. Discover the benefits of moving to Thunder Bay! Mining is one of the highest-paying industrial sectors in Canada. Mining employees earn more than counterparts in utilities, forestry, manufacturing and construction. Job security is also an attractive feature of jobs in the mining sector. The jobs listed on this site are pulled directly from the mines career page. To apply or to find more information regarding a job you must visit the mines website directly. The Thunder Bay CEDC will not accept job applications for any jobs listed below. Check out jobs and real estate at: https://gotothunderbay.ca/key-sectors/mining/mining-job-bank/ https://www.realtor.ca/on/greater-thunder-bay/real-estate Kyndryl claims to be the worlds largest IT infrastructure provider. A division of IBM until November 2021, it is now a separate company. Initially, little changed for customers except perhaps the logo on their invoice but with time, Kyndryl is taking advantage of its freedom from IBM to introduce new services and work with new partners. What does Kyndryl do? Essentially, Kyndryl does exactly what the managed infrastructure services unit of IBMs Global Technology Services segment did: outsource the management of enterprises IT infrastructure, whether it came from IBM or another vendor. Under IBMs stewardship, the activities since moved to Kyndryl were in slow decline, from $21.8 billion in annual revenue in 2018 down 7% to $20.28 billion in 2019, and down 4.6% to $19.35 billion in 2020, according to IBM filings with the SEC. That hasnt changed since the split: Kyndryls first full-year filing as an independent company, barely two months after the separation, showed 2021 revenue down a further 4%, to $18.66 billion. The decline continued into 2022, with first quarter revenue down 7% year on year, and the second quarter down 10%. However, Kyndryl is beginning to develop new services, and is forming partnerships in a bid to grow its revenue. It estimates that the $415 billion market opportunity it addresses is growing at 7% a year, with some areas it is targeting (including security, intelligent automation and public cloud managed services) growing even faster. Kyndryl has organized itself into six global managed services practices, each of which manages a different aspect of technology. These are: Applications, data and AI Cloud Core enterprise and zCloud, IBMs mainframe-as-a-service offering Digital workplace Network and edge Security and resiliency There is also a customer advisory practice that combines managed services, advisory services, and implantation. In September 2022, Kyndryl also launched two new branded services, Bridge and Vital. The company calls Kyndryl Bridge an open integration platform, an operational monitoring system, somewhat like HPE GreenLake or IBM vCenter, that Kyndryl staff will connect to an enterprises existing IT infrastructure to help CIOs keep ahead of problems. Kyndryl Vital is essentially a design workshop, during which Kyndryl consultants work alongside an enterprises employees to prototype applications. Who are Kyndryls partners? At the moment of their split, Kyndryl and IBM were one anothers biggest suppliers, and that will remain true for the time being. But Kyndryl is free to independently explore, with no preference for IBMs software and services. Kyndryl named Microsoft its first cloud infrastructure partner in November 2021, announcing a similar partnership with Google the following month. But it took it until February 2022 to form a pact with Amazon Web Services. IBM had partnerships with numerous software providers, and Kyndryl inherited or expanded some of those, including with Elastic, Lenovo, SAP, ServiceNow, and VMware. Kyndryl has also formed new partnerships, including with Cisco Systems, Citrix, Cloudera, Dynatrace, EY, Field Safe Solutions, NetApp, Nokia, Oracle, Pure Storage, IBM subsidiary Red Hat, Teradata and Veritas Technologies. These partnerships expand Kyndryls repertoire when it comes to integrating products and services into Bridge, or incorporating them into co-creations with Vital. How big is Kyndryl? Kyndryl started with 4,600 customers (including 75 of the Fortune 100), over a quarter of IBMs 350,000 staff, activities generating around $19 billion in annual revenue and an order backlog (or long-term maintenance contracts from all those customers) of around $62 billion. Where that puts Kyndryl in the rankings depends on what youre measuring. Kyndryl says its the worlds largest IT infrastructure provider, although IT channel publication CRN says its only the fifth-largest solutions provider, a much broader category, behind Accenture, whats left of IBM, DXC Technology, and Tata Consulting Services. Is Kyndryl hiring? Like crazy! Kyndryl hired over a dozen top executives in 2021, and by the end of the year had 88,683 employees. Although its hiring in the US has slowed, it had 1,141 lower-level job openings posted at press time, over half of them in the EU, with other significant concentrations in India and Japan. Half the openings are for technical specialists, with more than 100 openings in systems architecture and an emphasis on automation. Who works at Kyndryl? Most staff at Kyndryl simply changed email addresses, carrying on doing the same work for clients as they did at IBM before the split. Indeed, Kyndryl went out of its way to reassure customers that their key points of contact and support, and the other team members they work with, would not change, and that the company continues to work with experts in other divisions of IBM as it did before. But the company brought in new blood for many of the most senior roles, either hiring in from other companies, or poaching from other divisions of IBM. CEO Martin Schroeter is ex-IBM, in fact. He left the company in June 2020, before the spin-off was announced, and came back to lead Kyndryl, then known as NewCo, in January 2021. He was previously SVP of global markets at IBM, and before that its CFO. The next senior appointments, in March 2021, were chief marketing officer Maria Bartolome Winans, who came to the spin-off directly from her role as CMO for IBM Americas, and group president Elly Keinan, another former IBMer who took time out to work in venture capital after 33 years at the company. Global head of corporate affairs Una Pulizzi was also a new hire in April 2021, previously in a similar role at GE, while general counsel Edward Sebold was chief legal officer for IBMs Watson Health division. Poaching of more senior IBMers continued in early May 2021. Chief transformation officer Nelly Akoth was previously with IBM Global Business Services; Leigh Price moved from one leadership role in strategy and corporate development to another; and Vineet Khurana became controller at Kyndryl after five years in three different CFO roles at IBM. Kyndryls global alliances and partnerships leader Stephen Leonard held a number of positions at IBM, most recently as general manager of the Power Systems division. It wasnt until the second half of May 2021 that Kyndryl began to name its top technical staff: CIO Michael Bradshaw is new to IBM, having previously served as CIO at NBC/Universal and as CIO for Mission Systems and Training at Lockheed Martin. CTO Antoine Shagoury is a former CIO of US bank State Street and of stock exchanges in London and the US. Most recently, he worked at strategic advisory partnership Ridge-Lane. Other senior Kyndryl hires from outside IBM include Vic Bhagat, a former CIO for Verizon Enterprise Solutions, EMC, and several units of GE as the head of its customer advisory practice, and COO Harsh Chugh, most recently CFO at SaaS provider PlanSource. Who is on Kyndryls board? To provide the new company with more stability, Kyndryls board of directors will serve overlapping three-year terms through 2027, so itll take at least two elections for an outside group to take control of the board. Kyndryls first 10 directors are: CEO Martyn Schroeter, board chairman Stephen Hester, lead independent director. He was CEO of RSA Insurance Group until June 2021, and is chairman of easyJet Dominic Caruso, retired Johnson & Johnson CFO John Harris, former VP of business development for Raytheon and board member at Cisco Systems Shirley Ann Jackson, president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Janina Kugel, former CHRO and member of the managing board of German industrial conglomerate Siemens Denis Machuel, CEO of temporary staffing firm Adecco Rahul Merchant, former head of technology at retirement fund TIAA, Fannie Mae, and Merrill Lynch, and current board member at Convergint Technologies, Global Cloud Exchange, Juniper Networks, and Emulex Jana Schreuder, retired COO of Northern Trust and current board member at Entrust Datacard and Blucora Howard Ungerleider, president and CFO of commodity chemicals company Dow What does Kyndryls split mean for IBM? IBM is still one of the biggest technology businesses in the world. Its separation from Kyndryl freed it from a legacy business that wasnt growing, and enabled it to reorganize into three main operating segments now called Software, Consulting (formerly Global Business Services), and Infrastructure. Its doing well post-split: For the full year 2021 revenue from Software rose 5.3% to $24.1 billion, and Consulting made $17.8 billion, up 9.8%, although revenue from Infrastructure, the segment Kyndryl was spun out of, fell 2.4% to $14.2 billion. Those trends, both positive and negative, continued through the first half of 2022. Customer needs for application services and infrastructure services are diverging, and so spinning off Kyndryl will allow IBM to focus on growing its open hybrid cloud platform and AI capabilities, IBM CEO Arvind Krishna said in October 2020. The split turns IBM from a services-led company to one making more than half its revenue from software and solutions. But until that growth takes hold, Kyndryl and IBM remain close, as they began their separate lives as one anothers largest customers. By Bryan Kirschner, Vice President, Strategy at DataStax From delightful consumer experiences to attacking fuel costs and carbon emissions in the global supply chain, real-time data and machine learning (ML) work together to power apps that change industries. New research co-authored by Marco Iansiti, the co-founder of the Digital Initiative at Harvard Business School, sheds further light on how a data platform with robust real-time capabilities contribute to delivering competitive, ML-driven experiences in large enterprises. Its yet another key piece of evidence showing that there is a tangible return on a data architecture that is cloud-based and modernized or, as this new research puts it, coherent. Data architecture coherence In the new report, titled Digital Transformation, Data Architecture, and Legacy Systems, researchers defined a range of measures of what they summed up as data architecture coherence. Then, using rigorous empirical analysis of data collected from Fortune 1000 companies, they found that every yes answer to a question about data architecture coherence results in about 0.70.9 more machine learning use casesacross the company. Moving from the bottom quartile to the top quartile of data architecture coherence leads to more intensive machine learning capabilities across the corporation, and about14% more applications and use cases being developed and turned into products. They identified two architectural elements for processing and delivering data: the data platform, which covers the sourcing, ingestion, and storage of data sets, and the machine learning (ML) system, which trains and productizes predictive models using input data. They conclude that what they describe as coherent data platforms deliver real-time capabilities in a robust manner:they can incorporate dynamic updates to data flows and return instantaneous results to end-user queries. These kinds of capabilities enable companies like Uniphore to build a platform that applies AI to sales and customer interactions to analyze sentiment in real-time and boost sales and customer satisfaction. Putting data in the hands of the people that need it The study results dont surprise us. In the latest State of the Data Race survey report, over three quarters of the more than 500 tech leaders and practitioners (78%) told us real-time data is a must have. And nearly as many (74%) have ML in production. Coherent data platforms also can combine data from various sources, merge new data with existing data, and transmit them across the data platform and among users, according to Iansiti and his co-author Ruiqing Cao of the Stockholm School of Economics. This is critical, because at the end of the day, competitive use cases are built, deployed, and iterated by people: developers, data scientists, and business owners potentially collaborating in new ways at established companies. The authors of the study call this co-invention, and its a key requirement. In their view a coherent data architecture helps traditional corporations translate technical investments into user-centric co-inventions. As they put it, Such co-inventions include machine learning applications and predictive analytics embedded across the organization in various business processes, which increase the value of work conducted by data users and decision-makers. We agree and can bring some additional perspective on the upside of that kind of approach. In The State of the Data Race 2022 report, two-thirds (66%) of respondents at organizations that made a strategic commitment to leveraging real-time data said developer productivity had improved. And, specifically among developers, 86% of respondents from those organizations said, technology is more exciting than ever. That represents a 24-point bump over those organizations where real time data wasnt a priority. The focus on a modern data architecture has never been clearer Nobody likes data sprawl, data silos, and manual or brittle processes all aspects of a data architecture that hamper developer productivity and innovation. But the urgency and the upside of modernizing and optimizing the data architecture keeps coming into sharper focus. For all the current macroeconomic uncertainty, this much is clear: the path to future growth depends on getting your data architecture fit to compete and primed to deliver real time, ML-driven applications and experiences. Learn more about DataStax here. About Bryan Kirschner: Bryan is Vice President, Strategy at DataStax. For more than 20 years he has helped large organizations build and execute strategy when they are seeking new ways forward and a future materially different from their past. He specializes in removing fear, uncertainty, and doubt from strategic decision-making through empirical data and market sensing. Todays CIOs need to be more than strategic, they should be visionaries, too. With that in mind, many are already looking ahead and planning for what they, their IT departments, and their organizations as a whole will need in 2025. Todd Cassidy, managing vice president and CIO of associate experience at Capital One, is in that camp. We are constantly looking ahead to make sure we are ready for whats next, says Cassidy, who is also the companys chief of staff for technology. He cites the technology-enabled changes in how people work as well as general advancements in technologies like cloud, machine learning, and open source as trends impacting the three-year roadmap. He cites the continuing need for agility in IT and ongoing training as essential for success in the years ahead. CIOs need to be positioned to ride the wave of innovation by not only leveraging advancements in these technologies, but also by leaning on their engineering organizations to accelerate adoption and innovation in that space, he says. IT leaders, other executives, and management advisors acknowledge that its impossible to know for sure what the future will hold. Yes, they say, something could come out of left field and shake up well-researched plans as the COVID pandemic did in 2019 and the Great Recession did a decade prior. That said, enterprise officials also say they still must plan ahead, using available information and insights to create their best estimates of what 2025 will bring. And CIOs, they add, are particularly critical to these divinations given how intertwined technology and business have become. To continue to grow value, leaders will need to and intend to extend their efforts into digital transformation. CIOs need to be leaders in these efforts, says Irving Tyler, a distinguished research vice president at research firm Gartner. More cloud, metaverse on the horizon CIOs, analysts, and researchers predict that theyll see a maturation of the technologies they already have in place in the years ahead. They also say they expect some technologies that theyre now only watching or testing to become mainstream by 2025. As they see it, this constitutes an evolution, not a revolution, of digital trends moving forward, making their lists of critical enterprise technologies for 2025 familiar. Multiple sources, for example, say their three-year roadmaps are heavily weighted toward cloud in particular, increased public cloud adoption. Be prepared for cloud to be the dominant way, where all of our data platforms are service-provided, where all cyber platforms are service-provided, where [the tools] we develop with will be in a hyperscale cloud environment, says Barry Brunsman, leader of the CIO Advisory Center of Excellence at KPMG and a principal in the firms CIO Advisory practice. Moreover, CIOs and researchers believe a robust cloud environment will be mandatory for capitalizing on other technology trends expected to be in play in 2025. This includes a surge of interest in and use cases for augmented reality, virtual reality, and the metaverse, according to CIOs, even though that latter technology is currently far from prime-time ready. We see real enthusiasm for Web3 and the metaverse, Brunsman says. Others agree, noting that CIOs are being tasked to imagine the art of the possible with the metaverse and how organizations can use it to engage and support employees and customers in new ways. But Brunsman tempers expectations for the metaverse and its potential in 2025, explaining that many executives are reluctant to be on the leading edge of metaverse adoption. Connected devices, torrents of data CIOs and IT advisors also expect the high growth rates of connected devices to continue over the next three years. The internet of things is going to continue to explode, says Craig Wright, senior partner for advisory and transformation at digital consulting firm West Monroe. Were already in the billions of devices, but were talking about trillions [in the upcoming years]. As a result, CIOs are plotting out what theyll need to support, monitor, and secure that burgeoning endpoint infrastructure, he says. This means looking at biometrics to replace passwords and even tokens for security, more edge computing devices to process data, more intelligence tools to understand the data being generated by the endpoint devices, and more automation to react to the data analysis. This emphasis on data is a key facet of CIOs 2025 outlooks. They anticipate a tsunami of data even greater than is experienced today with data coming from not only the growing number of endpoint devices but also systems of record and other applications, which will only be increasing the amount of data they produce and collect. The trend around data will continue. Organizations will continue to mature in how they use data and its impact on decision-making. It will be critical for the technology team to have knowledge around data, what insights it can provide, and how to use it to further business objectives, says Joan Holman, CIO of the law firm Clark Hill. We need to be thinking about where our data exists, how do we protect it, how do we pull together all of the pieces and drive value in supporting the organization. Consequently, CIOs will be building out more advanced analytics either on their own or in partnership with their data and/or digital executive colleagues. And theyll be seeking, in 2025, to harness more of that data to fuel a growing suite of artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, says Benjamin Rehberg, who as managing director with Boston Consulting Group leads the firms Technology Advantage practice in North America. CIO as chief integration officer To succeed, both now and as the future unfolds, CIOs will need to synthesize a range of technologies cohesively to deliver experiences, functionalities, and services to employees, partners, and most definitely customers. When you think about 2025, our teams will continue to focus on serving both customers, internal and external, and to find ways to make our business better on a daily basis, says Richard A. Hook, executive vice president and CIO of Penske Automotive Group and CIO of Penske Corp. In addition, our teams will continue to evolve their skills to ensure everyone has at least a security baseline of knowledge (deeper depending on roles), increased depth on various cloud platforms and configurations, and the skills necessary to build automation within IT and the business. And they must do that in a frictionless and intuitive manner, and in ways that anticipate the needs of each individual that their IT solutions serve. We see that leaders increasingly recognize the next phase of new value will come from transformational efforts seeking to change their business models, finding new forms of digitalized products and services, new ways to reach new customer segments, etc., says Gartners Tyler. CIOs wont own the visions needed but have the opportunity to be leaders in development of these transformational visions. The IT workforce of the future CIOs are also thinking of the capabilities and skills theyll need in their tech workers and in themselves to create the IT department of the future. Joanne Lee, principal research director of CIO advisory services at Info-Tech Research Group, predicts the need for more critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as more emotional intelligence (EQ), so that IT can continue to build its ability to identify ways of using technology to create new opportunities. Innovation and ideation will also become increasingly important, Lee says, adding that CIOs can expect to the need for data-related skills and expertise around environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) to rise. In addition, CIOs anticipate further need for IT to grow its business acumen and its ability to collaborate with the other functional areas within their organizations. It is also expected that IT capabilities will further extend into other functional areas within the organization and that CIOs and IT staff will need to learn how to use the technology talent of workers within those other departments effectively, Tyler says. The IT function cannot be the only source of technology, he says. CIOs need to enable greater access to technology tools and data and expertise to enable strategic business capabilities to transform in order to generate and deliver more value. As a result, cross-functional or fusion teams that blend technology and business professionals to ensure side-by-side collaboration on business initiatives will become more of the norm for organizations seeking to transform. Increasingly technology will be produced and operated by fusion teams across the business with the IT organization equipping and enabling these efforts through new forms of shared expertise, services, team structures, and technology communities, Tyler says. This democratization of technology will put CIOs in more of an orchestration mode, one in which they must ask, How can I and my organization enable expanded development and use of technology outside of IT in an optimal way? How do we help build the technology talent and support business technologist across the enterprise to enable their success? Tyler says, adding, CIOs need to focus on transforming technology delivery and fully integrating the IT operating model with the enterprise operating model. Similarly, CIOs say they must further evolve their DevOps practices and truly embrace agile methodologies, as organizational leaders will likely expect delivery of new tech capabilities to happen even faster in the future. That, coupled with the growing complexity of IT and cyber operations, will also drive up automation adoption, which in turn means IT will need more expertise around automation and AIOps. Prepare now Future-looking CIOs acknowledge they dont fully know what theyll need for 2025, but with a good sense of whats ahead, theyre already prepping one of the main benefits of drawing up the roadmap. These roadmaps by and large include speeding up cloud investments while shedding legacy technologies, developing a talent strategy along with training requirements, selecting vendors whose services can keep pace with their own roadmap, and aligning all of that with the business own vision for 2025, industry observers say. CIOs today are very much trusted advisors, meeting their C-level peers often and discussing market and customer trends, says Gordon Barnett, principal analyst with research firm Forrester. Experienced CIOs will understand which core, essential, and supporting business capabilities will be the basis of their businesss strategy. By understanding the capabilities, CIOs and their subordinates will analyze the required competency and capacity needs of those capabilities. It is this understanding that will drive CIOs to research which technologies and practices need to be invested in to support the strategy. Sorry, no valid subscriptions were found for this Publication. Please select from an option below to start a subscription. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 24 Hour Access From its sudden boom during the pandemic, the continuous rise of the video sharing platform sees TikTok entering a new venture in late 2022 for users across North America. Business Standard reports that TikTok will launch in the e-commerce scene by allowing users to use the Live Shopping feature in North America, starting the holiday season. TikTok Will Now Let North American Users Shop With TalkShopLive Following the launch of the feature in Asia and the United Kingdom, TikTok is allegedly partnering with Los Angeles-based outsourced technology 'TalkShopLive' to provide support for live stream selling, Financial Times writes. This feature will let influencers, brands, and retailers sell and buy products through links on the screen during live broadcasts on the app, allowing users to make transactions within the comforts of their own homes, says Mashable. TikTok has not confirmed or denied anything yet, but according to Financial Times, agreements are in the works and under consideration even if there has not been any contract signing yet, Engadget reports. Read More: TikTok Denies Data Breach Despite Hackers Leaking User Data, Source Code Mixed Reviews For Similar Feature Come From Across The Globe According to an article from Engadget, TikTok's sister app in China, which allowed live e-commerce broadcasts in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and the Philippines, had massive success in the past year. Douyin, the outsourced technology for live selling in Asia, reportedly hosted nine million broadcasts per month and sold billions of products only from May 2021 to May 2022. "When it comes to market expansion for TikTok Shop we are always guided by demand and are constantly exploring new and different options for how we can best serve our community, creators and merchants in markets around the world," the company said in a statement to Financial Times. However, TikTok Shop's launch in the United Kingdom apparently did not go as well as the Asian-wide rollout earlier this year, as sales targets were not met by the UK market, forcing influencers and brands to back out. Financial Times also revealed that after an investigation, it was found that some members of the staff have suffered from aggressive work culture regarding the UK shopping feature, contributing to its failure with unrealistic targets. Although still alleged, TikTok's supposed partnership with TalkShopLive could not have come at a greater time as rival Facebook has just abandoned its Live Shopping feature, much to the dismay of its users, Engadget claims. "Livestreaming participation in the US is growing, albeit slowly compared to other countries such as China, which indicates that trial periods and consumer education are necessary to encourage the use of this tool on social media," said Katie Hansen, senior retail and ecommerce analyst at Mintel, tells Financial Times. In recent years, TikTok has made it easier and free to advertise small businesses that follow micro-trends in order to get ahead with the help of the algorithm through video content creation. Related Article: TikTok Faces 27-M Fine Over Child Privacy Violations in UK Primeste notificari pe email Nota bene: Adresele email cu extensia .ru nu sunt acceptate. Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele The Charity Commission has power under s181A of the Charities Act 2011 to disqualify a person from holding office as a charity trustee or being employed in a senior management position within a charity (or within charities generally). This is the power that was given to the Commission by the Charities (Protection and Social Investment) Act 2016. In Lennox v Charity Commission for England and Wales CA/2021/0022, the Charity Tribunal dismissed Lennoxs appeal against his disqualification as a trustee of Thrift Urban Housing Limited. In this case, the High Court had already found sufficient grounds under the just and equitable test to wind up Thrift following the presentation of a petition by the Commission. This was the first exercise by the Commission of its power under s113 Charities Act 2011. This power allows it to apply to the High Court for a charity to be wound up under the Insolvency Act 1986. Martin Nsiah finance and operations manager of Voyage Two years ago, Martin Nsiah and his colleagues contemplated closing Voyage. As the pandemic took hold, the social justice charity could no longer deliver its face-to-face services and respond to its beneficiaries needs adequately. There was growing concern that Covid-19 would also damage the charitys already fragile relationships with investors and lower its chances of success when applying for grants. One tragic event brought some major changes. In June 2020, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. His death, and the subsequent increased prominence of the Black Lives Matter movement, shed light on racial inequalities around the world and helped open more conversations around race and white privilege. New chair at Alzheimer's Research UK Former chief executive of SSP Group and WHSmith, Kate Swann, has been announced as the new chair of Alzheimer's Research UK. She will became a trustee on 1 October and will step into the role of chair on 1 February 2023. Swann will be taking the helm from David Mayhew, vice chairman of J.P. Morgans global investment bank, who has been in post since 2012. He will become Alzheimer's Research UKs vice president when he officially hands over the role of chair next year. Swann was motivated to take on this role at Alzheimer's Research UK after seeing the impact of dementia on her mum, who died with frontotemporal dementia. She said: I take on roles where I can make a difference and I cant imagine making a bigger difference to peoples lives than helping to find cures for dementia. So, its an honour to become the next chair of Alzheimer's Research UK. My mum was a force of nature, the matriarch of our family - but dementia took all of that away from her and from us. My mum would have been mortified if she had known what was happening, and for us as a family, it was truly heartbreaking to witness. Nadine Campbell appointed CIoF chair Nadine Campbell has been recommended by the interview panel to be appointed as chair of Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIoF). She was elected as a trustee in 2020 and as interim chair in 2021, and her term of office will continue until 2024. Campbell was previously chair and committee member of Chartered Institute Northern Ireland. She said: Over the last year Ive had the opportunity to listen and hear from many of our members and am excited to start work on our new organisational strategy for 2023. Board appointments at Canal & River Trust The Canal & River Trust has this week made three appointments to its board of trustees. David Orr becomes the new chair, with Bronagh Kennedy and Ian Peters joining as trustees. The appointments are for an initial three-year term. They bring the Trusts board to 11 members, with the charitys out-going chair, Allan Leighton, and trustee Ben Gordon having stepped down on completion of their terms of office. Orr joins following a career working in the housing association sector at chief executive level where he lobbied for, and worked to provide, good quality homes and great neighbourhoods for people on low incomes. Kennedy retires later this year from her role as group company secretary and general counsel at Severn Trent Water. Peters is chair of the UK Health Security Agency and three companies involved in the energy transition sector. Care Provider Alliance welcomes chair The coalition of national voices of adult social care providers in England, the Care Provider Alliance (CPA) has appointed Nadra Ahmed, who is currently executive chairman of the National Care Association, as chair. Ahmed has served on numerous government task forces and she was the vice chairman of Skills for Care for 11 years having been appointed at its inception. She follows professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England who served as the CPAs chair for the past 12 months. She said: I am delighted and honoured to be the incoming chair at the same time as our new prime minister. The pandemic has shown just how vital social care is for people to live well in our communities. We are on the brink of another complex and challenging winter along with a cost of living crisis the stark realities of how interdependent social care and the NHS are will be further highlighted. ACEVO recruits interim head of influencing Roberta Fusco is to join ACEVO as interim head of influencing. She was previously interim director of policy and communications at Living Streets. For my next stepI am thrilled to be joining @ACEVO in Oct as Interim Head of Influencing, working on cost of living, climate emergency, inclusion, leadership & much more with the fab @JaneIdeCEO & team & colleagues across the sector. Lots to do together! https://t.co/RKuEFgygEU Roberta Fusco (@RobertaCFusco) September 22, 2022 Whitehall & Industry Group welcomes interim chief executive Vicky Browning will be taking up the position of interim chief executive of The Whitehall & Industry Group from 10 October. Browning recently left ACEVO after five years as chief executive. Delighted to be joining the fantastic @wiguk team on 10 Oct as interim chief executive. I'm really looking forward to working with them and WIG members to promote better business, better government and better society through learning, sharing and collaborating across sectors Vicky Browning (@browning_vicky) September 30, 2022 sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, On September 16, Mahsa Amini, a twenty-two-year-old woman, died in Kasra Hospital, in Tehran. Amini had been arrested by Irans morality police for improperly covering her head; while in police custody, Amini fell into a coma from which she did not awaken. Her family has challenged official accounts of Aminis death and alleged that she was beaten by authorities; reports on her death have included similar testimony from witnesses to Aminis arrest. Among the first reporters to detail Aminis death was Niloufar Hamedi, a reporter for the Tehran-based newspaper Shargh. On the day of Aminis death, Hamedi shared a photo of members of Aminis family embracing in the hospital; the photo was then circulated widely. The following day, September 17, protesters at Aminis funeral in her hometown of Saqez, a city in Kurdistan Province, met with resistance from armed forces. Protests quickly spread from Irans Kurdish regions throughout the countryfueled, the New York Times reported, by a range of grievances: a collapsing economy, brazen corruption, suffocating repression and social restrictions. On September 22, agents from Irans Ministry of Information raided Hamedis home, confiscated her laptop and phone, and arrested her. Hamedis Twitter account was suspended; her husband, Mohammad Hossein Ajorlou, tweeted that Hamedi is being held in Evin Prison, and has been interrogated and placed in solitary confinement. Hossein and Mohammed Ali Kamfirouzi, Hamedis lawyer, are tweeting updates about Hamedis status. As of late last week, the Committee to Protect Journalists had counted twenty-eight journalists arrested in Iran since protests began. (On a broader scale, state-backed news agency Tasmin reported that authorities have arrested twelve hundred people in connection to protests; other outlets have reported that dozens have been killed and injured.) Many of those journalistsincluding Elahe Mohammed, who was arrested after covering Aminis funeralwere taken to the same prison as Hamedi. Evin Prison has become the go-to place for the authorities to punish journalists, Sherif Mansour, the Committee to Protect Journalists Middle East and North Africa program coordinator, tells CJR. Since the start of the demonstrations, authorities have cut off mobile internet access, shutting down service to WhatsApp and Instagram. The internet blackouts have slowed efforts by organizations such as CPJ to verify journalists arrests; when internet access is temporarily restored, Mansour says, were able to receive these calls from family members, lawyers, and colleagues, which is also thanks to how tech-savvy the population in Iran has become, including journalists who had to report on earlier protests in which the government shut down the internet. Threats against press freedom in Iran have long played out along lines of ethnicity and gender. Women have a significant presence in Irans press and newspapers, but they are targeted for all types of harassment including hacking, email phishing, threats of rape and murder, Fahimeh Khezr Heidari, an Iranian journalist who worked in the country for ten years before leaving due to threats, says. CPJs Mansour says that gathering information on journalist arrests in the Kurdish regions of Iran is more difficult, because a lot of those journalists are not as well known. In a 2008 report, Amnesty International noted that Kurdish human rights defenders, community activists and journalists face arbitrary arrest and prosecution, with some facing torture, grossly unfair trials before Revolutionary Courts and the death penalty. Heidari tells CJR that being a journalist in Irans Kurdish regions is a lot harder than being a journalist in Tehran because, just by being Kurdish, youve already been accused by the government as being a separatist. In the past, detained journalists have been made to denounce protests on state-owned broadcasts in order to be released. As protests continue, Heidari fears that the governments retaliation against the journalists covering them will be worse this time. People this time didnt protest for jobs, for rising prices, or the left or right, she said. It was about life. Sign up for CJR 's daily email Below, more on journalism and the protests in Iran: In November 2019, after the Iranian government announced a sharp increase to gas prices , protests took place across the country; security forces killed more than three hundred people, according to a report by Amnesty International, and the government implemented an internet blackout considered to be the largest in the countrys history. Rest of World reported on efforts by diaspora Iranians to circumvent internet blocks. Nine months after the November blackout, Iranians still live in fear of another all-out shutdown, wrote Mehr Nadeem. As authorities tighten their hold on internet access, diaspora-led companies are filling the gap for Iranians who are seeking a way to bypass censors. The circumvention tools, created largely by diaspora entrepreneurs, are becoming increasingly critical as they face a crackdown at home and the bite of American-led sanctions online. For Wired , Matt Burgess writes about 1500tasvir , an Instagram account run by multiple users both inside and outside of Iran. The account, which launched in 2019, is posting video documentation of protests throughout the country. People on the ground send the videosin some areas, patchy connections are available and fixed Wi-Fi connections still workand the group checks the content before posting it online, Burgess writes. The group says it is receiving more than 1,000 videos per day, and its Instagram account has more than 450,000 followers. Access Now, an NGO defending digital rights, told Wired its partners have reported that text messages containing Aminis name have been blocked. Yeganeh Rezaian, an Iranian journalist and senior researcher with CPJ, spoke with her colleagues about the effects of journalist arrests on protest coverage. Security forces create an environment of fear in neighborhoods when they raid journalists homes, scaring families and neighbors away to make sure no one reports the arrests or talks to the media, especially the Persian-language media in exile, she said. In 2014, Rezaian herself was imprisoned and held in solitary confinement for seventy-two days while working as a journalist in the country. Female journalistshave been undeterred by the threats of reprisal from authorities, Rezaian said. Its one of the reasons that this moment feels different. Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Feven Merid is CJR's staff writer and Senior Delacorte Fellow. WORCESTER, Mass. (AP) A former tenant charged with setting a fire at a Massachusetts apartment building that claimed the lives of four people pleaded not guilty at her arraignment Friday and was held without bail. Yvonne Ngoiri, 36, faces four counts of second-degree murder as well as arson and assault charges in connection with the May 14 blaze in Worcester. Among the victims was a man who in 2018 had sued right-wing radio host Alex Jones Infowars website. Ngoiri, who once lived in the building, was taken into custody on Thursday, the office of Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. said in a statement. A telephone message seeking comment was left with the suspects attorney. The cause of the fire at the three-story, six-unit building in the early morning hours of May 14 was determined to be incendiary, according to the district attorneys office, but no motive was disclosed in court. She is scheduled back in court Nov. 29. The victims have previously been identified as Joseph Garchali, 47; Christopher Lozeau, 53; Vincent Page, 41; and Marcel Fontaine, 29. The cause of their deaths involved smoke inhalation and thermal injuries, the district attorneys statement said. In addition, several residents were injured, including one who jumped from a third-story window and two who suffered from smoke inhalation. The building had about 20 tenants. Two nearby buildings were also damaged. Fontaine sued Infowars in Texas in 2018. The complaint, seeking unspecified damages, said Infowars posted his photograph on its website the day of the shooting in Parkland, Florida, depicting him as the gunman at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where 17 people died. Lawyers for Infowars countered that Fontaine failed to show any evidence of malice or any injury because of his photos publication. Fontaines lawyer has said that the case will continue on behalf of his estate. That case is pending, according to Texas court records. About the photo: Officials investigate the scene of a fatal fire, Tuesday, May 17, 2022 in Worcester, Mass. A former tenant is heading to court Friday, Sept. 30 to face arson and murder charges in connection with a fire at a Massachusetts apartment building last May that claimed the lives of four people, including a man who had sued right-wing radio host Alex Jones Infowars website. (Rick Cinclair/Worcester Telegram & Gazette via AP, File) Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) The Danish Energy Agency says one of two ruptured natural gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea appears to have stopped leaking natural gas. The agency said on Twitter on Saturday that it had been informed by the company operating the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that pressure appears to have stabilized in the pipeline, which runs from Russia to Germany. This indicates that the leaking of gas in this pipeline has ceased, the Danish Energy Agency said. Undersea blasts that damaged the Nord Stream I and 2 pipelines this week have led to huge methane leaks. Nordic investigators said the blasts have involved several hundred pounds of explosives. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of sabotaging the Russia-built pipelines, a charge vehemently denied by the United States and its allies. The U.S.-Russia clashes continued later at an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council in New York called by Russia on the pipelines attacks and as Norwegian researchers published a map projecting that a huge plume of methane from the damaged pipelines will travel over large swaths of the Nordic region. Speaking Friday in Moscow, Putin claimed that Anglo-Saxons in the West have turned from imposing sanctions on Russia to terror attacks, sabotaging the pipelines in what he described as an attempt to destroy the European energy infrastructure. In Washington, U.S. President Joe Biden dismissed Putins pipeline claims as outlandish. It was a deliberate act of sabotage. And now the Russians are pumping out disinformation and lies. We will work with our allies to get to the bottom (of) precisely what happened, Biden promised. Just dont listen to what Putins saying. What hes saying we know is not true. U.S. officials said the Putin claim was trying to shift attention from his annexation Friday of parts of Ukraine. Were not going to let Russias disinformation distract us or the world from its transparently fraudulent attempt to annex sovereign Ukrainian territory, White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said Friday. European nations, which have been reeling under soaring energy prices caused by Russias invasion of Ukraine, have noted that it is Russia, not Europe, that benefits from chaos in the energy markets and spiking prices for energy. The U.S. has long opposed to the two pipelines and had repeatedly urged Germany to halt them, saying they increased Europes energy dependence on Russia and decreased its security. Since the war in Ukraine began in February, Russia has cut back supplies of natural gas sent to Europe to heat homes, generate electricity and run factories. European leaders have accused Putin of using energy blackmail to divide them in their strong support for Ukraine. The attacks on the pipelines have prompted energy companies and European governments to beef up security around energy infrastructure. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. NORTH PORT, Fla. (AP) As Hurricane Ian ravaged coastal towns in southwest Florida, residents in this quiet suburb thought they would be safe, having no beach and living outside areas under evacuation orders. But then the water kept flowing in. Since Ians passage, water levels have gone up significantly, turning roads into canals, reaching mailboxes, flooding SUVs and trucks, blocking the main access to a an interstate highway and leaving families trapped in their waterlogged homes. Now, as days go by, residents here in the Sarasota suburb of North Port are beginning to run out of food and water. Water just keeps going up. Who knows when it is going to stop, said Samuel Almanzar, 42. He was rescued by crews Friday along with his father, wife and two children, 11 and 6. As rescue efforts wrapped up Friday, local officials recommended people whose neighborhoods are flooding to evacuate. They said waters in some areas will continue to rise over the next two days. The floods in North Port show the impact of Ian has not been confined to the beaches and tourist towns. The heavy rains from the storm have ended up flowing into suburban and inland towns not part of hurricane warnings. Its the rising rivers that do it because of the hurricanes deluge, which continues to cause havoc long after the winds have passed. And its leading to rescue efforts not that different from those on the coasts. Floods were reported all across the center of the state: around Orlando and its theme parks, south to Kissimmee, east to Daytona Beach, Arcadia cattle country. People near rivers were deeply affected. Near North Port, the Florida Department of Transportation closed a stretch of Interstate 75 in both directions late Friday because of the flooded Myakka River. Dozens of National Guardsmen arrived earlier Friday in North Port about 85 miles (140 kilometers) south of Tampa to speed up efforts started Wednesday by firefighters from other states and counties. And city officials were scrambling to open an evacuation center at a high school. A mother of two cried on the phone, trying to connect with her parents so they could pick them up after coming out of her flooded neighborhood. A woman showed a map to rescuers to reach families with children in the area upon learning water had started to rise inside their homes. A man waded through waist-deep waters with his 8-year-old daughter, trying to venture out to get supplies. Megan Blevins, who works at a restaurant in nearby Venice, was trying to help the families of coworkers get out but said some were not accessible due to structures collapsing and leaving certain streets without access. We cant get people. We cant get people to them. There are some older folks we are trying to get to because they cant move, she said. Aimee Bowden, 47, said a tree fell on her house, opening a hole in her kitchen and dining room and letting water pour in. Firefighters going back and forth to pick up families with children evacuated her, with her husband and 13-year-old son in a rescue boat. I was terrified. You have your whole life uprooted, Bowden said. You try to just keep thinking about what you need to do. Just west of North Port, the Myakka River was forecast by the National Weather Service to reach record flood stage Friday at 12.55 feet (3.8 meters) and then crest a bit higher before receding. The nearby Peace River was set to hit an even higher mark: almost 24 feet (7.3 meters), which is about twice the previous record. It runs through mainly rural areas, especially the cattle town of Arcadia which is home to a well-known Florida rodeo. There was plenty of concern Friday about the steadily rising river. The unpredictability of the river is real, and people are in real danger, said DeSoto County Fire Chief Chad Jorgensen in a county post. If you are in these areas, you need to get out now. After crossing Florida, Ian moved over the Atlantic Ocean where it curved back into South Carolina on Friday. More than two dozen deaths have been blamed on the storm. Elvis Padron, 40, a construction worker now applying for political asylum, fled Venezuela with his wife and 8-year-old daughter and crossed the U.S.-Mexico border in February, only to face more hardship. My wife refuses to leave. She wants to stay, said Padron, who waded through the waters to find more supplies and tried to convince his wife on the phone they should leave. I feel like we dont have much time left. About the photo: A car is submerged in flood water in North Port, Fla., on Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. (AP Photo/Adriana Gomez Licon) Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Facebook is banning its users from free listing vehicles and other properties like real estate and rentals on Marketplace effective January 2023. Car Scoops reports that Meta, Facebook's parent company, will be deleting all listings made by business pages afterJanuary 30, 2023 due to massive complaints about spam listings for attention-grabbing purposes. Facebook is Revamping Its Marketplace By Decluttering Listings Buying a car on Facebook has always been sort of a struggle with misleading listings piling up on top of legitimate car deals, which is why the company is encouraging users to use ads instead. The new Facebook Marketplace rule urges car dealers to utilize Marketplace ads as part of the company's strategy to direct professional sellers to its paid programmatic ad products, Car Scoops reports. Tech Times writes that Meta describes other ways that dealers can reach potential buyers from their business pages alone, even without the Vehicle Tab and Manage Inventory Tab where the feature can be found. However, The Verge writes that despite this, Meta's business support page does not discourage the use of personal profiles to deal cars, which also warranted mixed reactions from Facebook users. Read More: Facebook Apologizes For Inappropriate Listings In Marketplace Confusing Rules Raised A Couple Of Brows Many believe that the step Facebook made will not resolve the problem, but will dig a deeper hole for itself as a number of fake individual postings can grow at a huge influx. According to Jalopnik, the crackdown on car listings had always been terrible and almost predatory at worst sometimes, which is why a need to immigrate ads from legit pages to Marketing Ads instead. Additionally, this will make it even harder to distinguish between legitimate versus dealer-back listings, as "Dealership" tags are commonly misused in the Facebook Marketplace, perpetuating scamming behavior, The Verge says. However, Tech Times claims that many users were thrilled to see that they can find vehicles within their area and budget more efficiently now, given that Facebook will address the misleading postings. Read More: DoorDash Can Now Deliver Your Facebook Marketplace Orders Straight to You It is also important to note that private transactions through the Marketplace are not going anywhere, and so are the ads despite their sometimes unusual nature, Jalopink writes. Although the change might have been a little immediate, Tech Times believes that it is best for users to follow instructions for car dealerships and sales, since Facebook will have specific solutions for their concerns. In connection with this, Facebook is reassuring its patrons, car dealers and car seekers alike, that they are continually investing their efforts towards innovative solutions to deliver the needs of the automotive sector. According to The Verge, the new rule on car listing crackdown on Meta's Facebook Marketplace applies to sellers from countries including the United States, Canada, France, United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, Indonesia, Germany, and Australia. Aside from cars and vehicles, this marketplace rule also extends to home sales, real estate, and home rentals from someone's personal profile. Related Article: Meta is Canceling Facebook 'Neighborhoods' Even Before it Rolls Out to Most Users SpaceX Crew-5 mission members are now on the launch pad to achieve their destiny. NASA's SpaceX Crew-5 flight members have recently reported to the space agency's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) to start final preparations for Crew-5's launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on Oct. 5. People interested in watching the launching of SpaceX's Crew-5 mission live on launch day can do so through NASA TV, the NASA App, and its official website. SpaceX Crew-5 Flight Crew Arrival NASA mentioned in an announcement that Crew-5 flight members, which consists of NASA astronauts Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Koichi Wakata, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Anna Kikina, have arrived at the KSC earlier than scheduled. According to an earlier statement, the flight crew is not expected to arrive until 12:30 pm on Oct. 1. Regardless of their arrival, all four crew members will call KSC's Astronaut Crew Questers home until Oct. 5. You may remember that SpaceX's Crew-5 mission flight crew will be sent to the International Space Station through the company's Falcon 9 rocket and the Dragon Endurance spacecraft, which is expected to arrive at its destination on Oct. 6 at 4:57 PM EDT. The launch was previously scheduled to happen on Oct. 3 but was delayed to Oct. 5 due to Hurricane Ian's arrival in Florida, per Space.com. Cassada, who is assigned to be the commander of the mission, mentioned that going to the International Space Station is a "remarkable opportunity" for all four of them and that they have trained and prepared for the launch, return, and the time they'll be spending in space. Read More: Get the Best Projector at Home With VANKYO Performance V700W Livehouse Projector "It's time to get to work," Cassada said in a press conference during their arrival. "Nobody does this alone, and we have thousands of people around the globe we need to thank for getting us to this spot." Interestingly, the mission is also destined to be a first for the world as Mann will soon become the first Native American person to reach space. Mann mentioned they're proud to represent Native Americans and their heritage, adding that celebrating diversity, collaboration, and unity among different peoples is important. She also said she hopes that they being the first Native American in Space will serve as an inspiration for children and adults from varying backgrounds to follow their dreams and work together to make the impossible possible. Handover Ceremony SpaceX's Crew-5 flight members will participate in a handover ceremony with the company's Crew-4 mission, which consists of NASA astronauts Kjell Lindgren, Robert Hines, and Jessica Watkins, along with European Space Agency astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti. This ceremony will probably happen on Oct. 6 at 8:15 PM EDT, during or after Crew-5's Welcome Ceremony. Afterward, SpaceX's Crew-4 flight members will depart the space station in a return trip home to Earth through a splashdown off the coast of Florida. Related Article: NASA To Provide Coverage for SpaceX Crew-5 Launch Here's How You Can Watch It Live Tesla said on Sunday that it delivered 343,830 vehicles in the third quarter of 2022, a 42 percent increase from the vehicles that it sold in the third quarter of 2021. In addition, the company was able to produce 365,923 cars, compared last year's 237,823. The 343, 830 delivered vehicles only shows that Tesla has managed to bounce back from "a slower second quarter." The company experienced a slower second quarter due to the factory shutdowns in relation to COVID-19 restrictions. Tesla is Facing Difficulties in Transporting its Vehicles The Verge noted that the company managed to deliver 18,672 of Model S and X for the third quarter. Meanwhile, Model 3 and Y accounted for 325,158 of the vehicles delivered. According to Tesla, the production of its vehicles has grown. However, as the company's production increased, they had experienced a growing difficulties in shipping the cars to customers during the last days of the quarter. At the end of the quarter, some of the electric vehicles (EV) from Tesla are in transit. The company added that some of the EVs "have been ordered and will be delivered to customers upon arrival at their destination." Because of the peak logistics weeks, securing vehicle transportation capacity and at a reasonable cost have been a difficult task for the automaker. This is one of the reasons why some customers haven't received their EVs yet. It only means that Tesla is going to try to do something to about its "legendary end-of-the-quarter" pushes, as per TechCrunch. According to CEO Elon Musk, the company is trying for a steadier approach. He noted that when there is an end of quarter rush, customer experience suffers. Therefore, the company will try to employ a steadier approach to address the issue. Read Also: Tesla Model S vs. Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX: Specs, Design, Power and More--Which Is Better? Tesla Produced More Vehicles in the Third Quarter Despite Tesla's 343,830 vehicles delivery record, this still fell short of the 359,162 cars that the analysts has expected on average, according to Reuters. Moreover, the automaker company wasn't able to deliver all of the 365,923 cars that it managed to produce in the third quarter. This is a rare case for the company as its deliveries are typically similar to its production in the past quarters. The company is said to be facing challenges in transporting its vehicles. There has been an increasing demand for EVs worldwide. It has become a primary mode of transportation for an increasing number of people, and Tesla is one of the leading company in the auto industry. In the recent year, Tesla has invested greatly in its factory in China as the demand for EVs in the country increased. However, operations in the Shanghai factory have been hobbled due to COVID-related shutdowns and component shortages. This resulted in the slowdown of EV sales in the second quarter of this year. Since lockdown in Shanghai has been lifted, Tesla was able to ramp up its production this quarter. Moreover, with the new Gigafactories in Texas and Berlin starting its operation, the company was able to produce more vehicles this third quarter. Related Article: Tesla Now Only the Second Leading Manufacturer of EVs Worldwide, Chinese Rival Goes First The South Korean headquarters of Apple have been raided by antitrust officials after speculations that the Apple App Store is charging developers with more than they should. Officials from the Korean Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) stormed into Apple's office in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, due to a complaint about overcharging commission rate, immediately investigating Apple's alleged abuse, Mac Rumors writes. Apple Charges More Than It's Supposed To Mobile game developers in Seoul have brought to the attention of the antitrust officials that there is an alleged overcharging in revenue, with Apple collecting three percent more than their baseline of 30%. Naturally, developers need to pay Apple 30% of the revenues they get from their app, but they claim that Apple had been taking 10% more, inclusive of a Value Added Tax, which should not have been placed on them in the first place, The Mac Observer reports. The Mac Observer adds that the same overcollection of commission rate also applies to small businesses or subscriptions under Apple. Their collection of the additional 3% amounted to $240 million from 2015 to 2020 for every business they charge with 16.5% commission on the gross price plus VAT. In France and Italy, where Apple also operates, it was reported that a 32.1% commission rate is collected, Turkey gets fined with 35.25%, while the United Kingdom pays up 31.5% of their revenue, Mac Rumors says. Apple Insider reports that Chosun Biz, a local publication, stated that the Korean Mobile Games Association (KMGA) is alleging abuse of power on Apple's end, exhibited by driving out local competition and collecting tax. Chosun Biz also adds that a complaint like this would not have normally gotten this level of attention, but with the nature of the business and the consideration of how big Apple is, this was considered a high-priority case by the national KFTC. Read More: Apple SIM No Longer Available- What Does This Mean for Users of Supported iPads? Investigations Are On-going And Apple Is 'Cooperating' Apple is now being investigated by two offices in Korea. One of these is the Korean Communications Commission which speculates malpractice by violating in-app payment laws after the rejection of Google to comply, as Mac Rumors claims. Another local publication called Foss Patents believes that Apple is not doing itself any good by making alternative payment services extremely expensive with a 26% commission on payments processed by other providers. This means that if a developer uses a third party to process their payment in Korea, Apple will be charging for a cost that is twice as high as an in-app purchase. In a statement, Apple's spokesperson claimed that they are 'fully cooperating' with KFTC regarding the investigation of the Apple tax. "We look forward to explaining how the App Store has been a tremendous business opportunity for Korean developers," said the spokesperson, according to a report by CNet. Foss Patents claims that the South Korean government did the right thing by amending the Telecommunications Business Act of Korea to curb the Apple Store's abuse, which has also been rampant in the United States. Related Article: South Korean Government Fines Google, Meta Approx. $71.8M for Violating Privacy Laws Robert Bob Marshall, candidate for House District 43, said hes running for office to bring back good governance after the local and national political turmoil hes witnessed in recent years. Marshall an attorney and Marine Corps veteran of 28 years was a Republican for more than three decades before leaving the party in 2017. Marshall said his turning point was when the Republican Party did not distance itself from then-presidential nominee Donald Trump after he criticized the family of Capt. Humayun Khan, who died while serving in Iraq. After spending four years unaffiliated, Marshall joined the Democratic Party in December 2021, being named Democrat of the Year by the Douglas County Democrats only seven months later. Marshall became active in local politics, even suing the Douglas County School Board in February, accusing the board of violating the state's open meetings law before the controversial termination of its then-superintendent. Marshall ran unopposed in the Democratic primary election, but is set to face Republican Rep. Kurt Huffman this November who was selected to represent House District 43 by a vacancy committee after Sen. Kevin Van Winkle, R-Highlands Ranch, moved to the state Senate in June. House District 43 is one of the most politically competitive districts in the state. The Douglas County district leans only 7.4% Republican, making it the 15th most evenly split district, according to a report from the redistricting commission. The districts active registered voters are 45% unaffiliated, followed by 32% Republican and 22% Democrat. As of Sept. 19, Marshall has raised just under $37,000 on top of a $12,500 loan, according to filings from the Secretary of States Office. While Marshall has raised more than his opponent, Huffman took out a $100,000 loan in addition to over $27,000 in fundraising. Huffmans spending also greatly exceeds Marshalls, $109,000 to $27,000. With just over one month to go before the general election on Nov. 8, Marshall sat down with Colorado Politics to discuss his campaign and political aspirations. Colorado Politics: What inspired you to run for office? Bob Marshall: I became increasingly concerned about the trajectory of our country. This reached a peak in 2020 and I took a deep look into myself and decided that if I was willing to pledge my life for this great country, I should not hesitate to also pledge my honor, fortune and time. So, I became active in politics during the 2020 election. This led to involvement with local government in Douglas County, which is wholly dominated by the GOP. Clashes with the sheriffs office, county commissioners, Board of Health and, most publicly, the Board of Education, left me stunned by the lack of professionalism and lack of commitment to good governance for the general public good. So, I decided to do something about it. CP: What do you want to achieve by becoming a legislator? Marshall: I have three top priorities: public safety, public education and the environment. Public safety includes law enforcement, fire mitigation and mental health. Effective law enforcement is the first duty of the state. But one of the best ways to provide more resources for crime fighting is to take the mental health burden off our penal system. Colorado has destroyed its mental health institutions. Law enforcement is now the default mental health provider for those over 18 years of age. We need to re-establish our mental health institutions. This is a long-term legislative project. We also need to look at bail reform more seriously. Our system has become essentially a debtors prison for too many, which is something the Founding Fathers would despise. We need to ensure we have an efficient judicial system so people are not waiting inordinate amounts of time to conclude cases. I do think we need to look at revising the recent changes mandating personal recognizance bonds for auto theft. Auto theft is a skilled crime. And serious. So, after mandating PR bonds for auto theft, it is not a mystery why the Denver metro region has moved into the top rings for auto theft. Id also want to revise previous changes to make auto crimes for lower value vehicles more serious. Regarding public education, I am a product of public schools. Everything I have in life is likely attributable to the excellent public school education to which I had access. I was disgusted to find out how poorly we pay our teachers and how we treat them even worse. I supported Initiative 63 and it will be put legislatively onto the ballot when I am elected to the state House. I also want to ensure that all full-time equivalent teachers in the state are provided a $2,000 per year tax-free stipend for professional needs. Teachers should not have to pay out of pocket for supplies, training, etc. related to their professional duties. Also, I am a huge believer in returning vocational and technical onto campuses as a coequal post-secondary educational goal of our public school system. For the environment, I am a Colorado native who remembers the infamous brown cloud of the 1970s where one could experience chewy air. We should not wait for environmental issues to become crises before acting. We dont have to argue over climate change and whether it is man-made or not. We all know what is coming out of the tailpipes is not good for us. So, why dont we work to reduce it as quickly, efficiently and cheaply as possible over the near, medium and long term? CP: How confident are you feeling going into the November election? Your district leans Republican, but it also has a plurality of unaffiliated voters and is among the most politically competitive districts in the state. Marshall: Feeling very good. ... People of goodwill without rigid ideological blinders respond well to my personal journey of having been a Republican for 30+ years, unaffiliated for four and now a Democrat. My old Veterans of Foreign Wars colleagues, who are generally very conservative, hit the nail on the head when they said I was a political animal that they thought was extinct: A Truman Democrat. And I accept that moniker proudly and people respond to it well. I think the majority of voters of goodwill in my district want that type of leadership. Not ideological. And not chameleon-like that bends to the winds or the influential. CP: Why should constituents vote for you over your opponent? Marshall: I intend to represent the entire community. Not just a faction or special interests like my opponent. One can easily see this black and white discrepancy between my opponent and me by following the money. He has outspent me 4.5 times, with virtually all of that money coming from his own pocket as a loan or from special interests and people from outside the district. Without regard to ideology or politics, one has to ask who my opponent will represent as Highlands Ranchs state district representative. The money says it will be himself and outside special interests. Compare that to who the money says I will represent: individual voters of Colorado State House District 43. Additionally, my opponent at the beginning of his campaign listed as his top priorities, in bold red, that he was pro-life and 100% pro-2nd Amendment ... however, my opponent who had billed himself as the conservative voice of Highlands Ranch has now scrubbed and sanitized his campaign sites of that tag line and any mention of previous top priorities. Instead, he now proclaims himself a champion of public safety and public education. Those have been my top priorities since I started this campaign. And despite pressure to deviate from them, I never have. CP: If you win in November, how will you approach your first legislative session? Are there any bills youre planning to bring forward? Marshall: I intend to listen, think and act. The teacher stipend bill discussed above, putting Initiative 63 on the ballot legislatively and looking at the start of the long-term projects of bills to correct our mental health issues in Colorado are specific big-ticket items. I also want to move forward with hearings to consider a law enforcement professionalization act to reduce politics and increase professionalism in county sheriff and district attorney offices; a bill to reduce partisan politics on school boards such as I understand Wisconsin has had for decades; and ensuring that counties of a certain size population are required to have more than three commissioners elected at-large to stop, or at least reduce, the good ol boy system where two individuals can have virtually unchecked authority over hundreds of millions of dollars and thousands of lives and livelihoods. I also have a small specific interest in correcting what appears an oversight in Colorado law that fails to recognize the Veterans Administrations individual unemployability designation as being a 100% VA disability rating for Colorado veterans' benefits. FAST FACTS Age? 53 Family? Married 28 years, one daughter. Wife works at an Alzheimers facility and daughter is serving in the Navy as a nuclear submarine officer. Hobbies? Rare book collecting. Biggest jewels of the collection are first edition/first printings of Colorados Constitution, Mary Wollstonecrafts Vindication of the Rights of Women and Anne Franks Dutch diary. Favorite song? Varies based on age, time and mood, but Frank Sinatras My Way, Thats Life and The Beatles' In My Life are long-term recurring top 10 favorites over decades. Favorite restaurant in your district? At heart, I am a Dennys guy. But the wife loves the Old Blinking Light, so I do too. Something about you most people dont know? Im an excellent driver, Raymond Babbitt, Rain Man Are you a current print subscriber to Columbia Gorge News? If so, you qualify for free access to all content on columbiagorgenews.com. Simply verify with your subscriber id to receive free access. Your subscriber id may be found on your bill or mailing label. Features of the upcoming Pixel Watch were leaked today in an ad. The ad showed What Google plans to highlight in its upcoming WearOS 3 wearable. According to 9to5Google, the leak shared by SnoopyTech ended with the tagline "Help by Google" and "Health by Fitbit." SnoopyTech Reveals Biggest Pixel Watch Leak According to Engadget, right after Google's event this coming October 6, the Pixel Watch is expected to go on sale. But, just a few days before Google's big Pixel event, leaks of its upcoming Pixel Watch surfaced online. On Twitter, a short video ad was shared by SnoopyTech today detailing the features of the upcoming Google wearable. You'll see how thick the Pixel Watch is with the side view of the Pixel Watch shown in the video. The rotating crown was also focused. There was a text shown saying "Sleek design," and "three finishes" in matte black, silver, and gold were shown. The text "Track Heart Rate" also appears to illustrate the Fitbit experience. It appears that it would have Maps for Wear OS as "Get directions" appears in the ad. The watch will feature Google Wallet, as illustrated by the "Check out" feature shown in the video. As shown in the ad, you will be able to take calls from your wrist using the Pixel Watch. Moreover, you'll be able to control your home using "Hey Google" Assistant commands. As the ad ended, the tagline "Help by Google" and "Health by Fitbit" appeared on the screen. Read Also: Fitbit App Hints That Pixel Watch Will Have Short Battery Life Pixel Watch Leak Shows Band Styles, Watch Faces, and More In a previous leak of the Pixel Watch shared by OnLeaks, the band styles, watch faces, and other features of the wearable were revealed. According to The Verge, Pixel Watch would sport silicone band styles expected to come in black, eggshell, dark gray, and silver. A three-braided option in orange, green, and black is also expected to be available. Talking about band styles, it appears that the Pixel watch will also come in two different leather band styles. There will be a sleek set that will come in orange, black, and silver. Another one is the more rugged-looking band in black and green. In addition to the band styles, different watch faces were also included in the leaked image. Some of the watch faces shown are "a simple minute and hour hand with the user's heart rate, a minimalist style that spells out the time, and a more decorative option with a landscape design." Other features of the Pixel Watch were also shown in the leaks, such as Fitbit integration, support for Google Fast Pair, emergency calls, and ECG reading. According to a separate report by 9to5Google, the leaked images were from an Amazon listing that went live briefly in Germany. Reports said that SmartDroid was able "to actually put in a pre-order for the Pixel Watch" on the Amazon listing that briefly went live. Through Amazon's listing, they were able to confirm that the Pixel Watch will have six months of Fitbit Premium for free. This is for some selected regions only. Related Article: Man Who Found and Leaked Google Pixel Watch Does a Reddit AMA - How Did This Strange Story Happen? More than 2000 residents of Browns Plains suburb suffered from electricity outage after a food delivery drone, which is operated by Wing, crashed into power lines in Brisbane, Australia. The incident happened on Thursday, September 29. Wing is a sister company of Google and a subsidiary of the Alphabet. According to Tech Times, the drone was attempting a "precautionary controlled landing" but came to rest on an overhead power lines. Wing Apologizes to Those Affected by the Incident After crashing into power lines with around 11,000 volts of electricity, the drone caught fire. Because of this, electricity company Energex had to shut down its network causing wide power outage in Browns Plains suburb. According to Digital Trends, the power outage was not immediately caused by the crash. It was actually the decision of Energex to switch off the power supply in order to check the damage caused by the incident. The incident was immediately reported by Wing to Energex. The outage caused by the incident lasted for about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, about 300 residents in the immediate vicinity suffered three hours of power outage. Danny Donald, a spokesperson from utility provider Energex said "We immediately reported this to Energex, who attended the location. Two hours later, during the retrieval process, there was a power outage in the area." According to Donald, they didn't necessarily have to get the drone off because it caught fire and incinerated itself. Afterwards, it fell to the ground. Wing issued an apology for any inconvenience caused by the crashing of its drone. According to the company, they are reviewing the incident to know how the drone that was supposed to make a delivery ended up crashing in a power line. Read Also: Google's Alphabet Plans To Build A 'Smart' City Wing Has Been Successfully Making Deliveries in Australia According to Gizmodo, while the crashing of drone on the power lines did not cause any permanent damage, Donald reminded people who are operating drones to be cautious around power lines. In 2019, Wing obtained the approval deliver food and medicine in Australia using their autonomous drone. The service has become quite popular among the residents since it started. At the first eight months of 2021, Alphabet-owned company made more than 50,000 deliveries in Queensland. The drone delivery of Wing was recently made available in Dallas as well. Since its launch in 2019, the company has been successfully making deliveries in most suburban parts of Australia. Drones of Wing have been delivering food, beverages, and other small products in just around 10 minutes. The drone delivery service of Wing can be currently availed in three countries, including the US, Finland, and Australia. Since Wing fostered partnership with local businesses, select customers can use their smartphones to place orders that will be delivered via drone delivery service. Once orders were made, a drone carrying the items will be sent to the customer's address. The orders will be lowered down on a tether into their place. Wing sees drone as a convenient way to bring smaller items to customer. In addition to having fewer emissions, it's a faster mode of delivery compare to road-based ones. Related Article: Alphabet's Wing Set to Begin Drone Deliveries on April 7 - Where Will It Be? Windows 11 22H2, released two weeks ago, is another step closer to being an acceptable upgrade to Windows 10. But many Windows users aren't yet being offered it for download. It's important to understand that we're in the seeker era for Windows 11 22H2. Microsoft still has a variety of hardware and third-party issues to work through, which is why you might not get offered 22H2 right away. But there is a mechanism you can use to review any hard blocks on your system. (If you want to get 22H2 sooner rather than later, you could opt into the Insider release track, which ensures you get the beta versions of Windows 11 but that also exposes your hardware to possible bugs, side effects, and other issues.) Courtesy of Adam Gross, you can use a GitHub script to determine exactly why your system is not being offered 22H2. You can either download the PowerShell script from the Github site or follow these commands to determine what might be blocking Windows 11 22H@ from showing up on your hardware.. First, search for PowerShell and then right-mouse click and run as administrator. In an administrator PowerShell session, type in the following: Install-Module FU.WhyAmIBlocked -Scope CurrentUser If you do not have the NuGet repository installed, it will prompt you to do so. Depending on your system, you may need to adjust the script policy on your computer. Type in: Set-ExecutionPolicy -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted And type in Y to approve the change. Next, type in: Import-Module FU.WhyAmIBlocked Finally, type in: Get-FUBlocks It should then provide the results in the FeatureUpdateBlocks folder on your computer. In my case, I have a Surface Pro 7 plus that had Windows 11 21H2 installed. But I wasnt being offered 22H2. After running the script from GitHub, I found out I had a block on my machine because of how I had installed a printer in my home network. Sure enough, this has recently been announced as a block to those who check for 22H2 via Windows Update. In the Microsoft Health release dashboard, the company documents the issue: Microsoft has found an issue when an installed printer uses Microsoft IPP Class Driver or Universal Print Class Driver and is installed on a Windows device with connectivity issues to the printer. Windows needs connectivity to the printer to identify all the features of the printer. Without connectivity, the printer is set up with default settings and in some scenarios might not get updated once connectivity to the printer is restored. You might be affected by this issue if your printer is unable to use printer specific features such as color, two-sided/duplex printing, paper size or type settings, or resolutions higher than 300x300dpi. Currently, installed printers in this state will carry this issue forward when upgraded to Windows 11, version 22H2. Microsoft has therefore put a block on my machine (and others like it that have an IPP printer driver installed). While I could get around the block and manually install printer drivers after the upgrade is installed, I am planning to leave my computer as is and see whether my computer gets offered the 22H2 release when Microsoft fixes the issue. The good news is that we now have a year between major feature releases along with a longer life cycle. Remember, Windows 11 21H2 is good until Oct. 8, 2024 and 22H2 gets support until Oct. 14, 2025. The dates are different for Windows 11 Home and Pro users: 21H2 gets security patches until Oct. 10, 2023 and 22H2 gets patches through Oct. 14, 2024. That's a year earlier, in both cases, than for Enterprise and Education versions. Microsoft is planning incremental changes along the way, similar to how it handled the News and Interests and Search highlights in Windows 10. These incremental changes will come out throughout the year, though Microsoft has said enterprises with a domain will be able to opt-in to these changes when they want. (As of yet, Microsoft hasn't spelled out how this opt-in will be handled.) So how will you know what changes are planned? My educated guess, based on years of monitoring Microsoft releases and patches is that youll need to keep an eye on two resources: the Insider channel and preview releases. Even if you dont run Insider versions, you can check the Insider blog to keep abreast of what changes are in testing. And for the Preview releases, check the monthly Patch Tuesday update. It includes security fixes and the incremental changes Microsoft has started doing. The fact that Microsoft has said these new moments will not be enabled by default on Enterprise, Education and domain-joined machines hints that there will be some sort of group policy, or registry key to enable or disable them. (At a minimum, I expect we will find a menu option to disable them.) To track what's in these preview updates, I recommend Googling "Windows 10 update history" or "Windows 11 update history" and bookmarking the version of Windows you're running. On the third or fourth week of the month, Microsoft will release information on a Knowledge Base page to allow you to read up on the non-security changes and fixes it is allowing us to test ahead of release in the next months security updates. Take, for example, the Sept. 30 preview update of KB5017389 for Windows 11 22H2, which adds more dynamic Widgets content to your taskbar with notification badging. When you open the Widgets board, a banner appears at the top of the board. It provides more information about what triggered the notification badge. (We may also get clues at the upcoming Ignite conference, which you you can attend virtually.) Ill keep an eye on upcoming moments and let you know what I find. Actor Lee Bum-soo in a scene from the film, "Hometown" / Courtesy of JNC Media Group By Kwak Yeon-soo With "Honest Candidate 2," "Life is Beautiful" and the upcoming "Hometown," the comedy genre is making waves with audiences these days. Actor Lee Bum-soo said he felt a lot of responsibility in wanting to make a comedy to help people get through these uncertain times. "During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were not many reasons to laugh. I also needed a break from reality at a difficult time," he said during a recent interview with The Korea Times. "Hometown" tells the story of Ki-sae (Song Sae-byeok), a failed comedian and son of a crime boss who returns to his hometown where he unexpectedly inherits his father's position as the ringleader. In the film, Lee plays the role of Kang-don, the underboss who kills Ki-sae's father and wants to send Ki-sae away from the town so he can inherit the throne. Lee said of the comedy genre, "This is a genre that I love. It allows me to relax and just be myself. It also offers plenty of creative freedom." When asked if he found Kang-don's character similar to Pil-ho from the 2006 film "The City of Violence," the veteran actor said, "Although they both speak Chungcheong Province dialects, Kang-don is much smarter than Pil-ho." Actor Lee Bum-soo / Courtesy of JNC Media Group Lee revealed he is always wary of being typecast. "After starring in the SBS drama 'Doctor Bong' (2007), I was offered to play the same type of character in MBC's 2010 drama 'Pasta.' However, I turned it down because I feared that I might get stuck playing the same role over and over again," he said. "Despite my efforts, I feel like it's nearly impossible to avoid being typecast after playing more than four or five different roles." "Hometown" includes many underlying themes on family, love and nostalgia. Lee said he became emotional after seeing Ki-sae endure hardships to pursue his dream and then belatedly acknowledge his father's love. Lee recalled that his passion for acting started at a young age. "For me, acting is fun like playing and traveling. One day in the 1980s, I saw a group of young office workers coming out of a building to grab lunch. I imagined myself in their shoes and thought to myself, 'I can't picture myself sitting in an office all day.' I'm happy being an actor," he said. The 52-year-old actor dropped hints about his next project currently being filmed, "The Roundup: No Way Out," the third installment of 2017 crime action film "The Outlaws," alongside Don Lee and Lee Jun-hyuk. "We will wrap up filming in November. I'm sure audiences will love the third film because it maintains the original's strengths and succeeds in mixing laughs with thrills," he said. "Hometown" will hit local theaters, Oct. 5. Opinion: The excitement of moving into ones college dormitory and settling into college life is overwhelming for most. The idea of being a sustainable college student is probable for few. ---------- This fall ushered in 5,338 freshmen students on campus (a record breaking amount of incoming students), and many of them moved into University of Oregons on-campus dormitories. With them, they brought shower caddies, mini fridges, wall decor, power strips and more. These essentials can help make the transition to college life easier and more comfortable by creating a safe, pleasant environment. The problem is: most of these products are used only during the nine months of dorm living and spend the rest of their days in a landfill after move out day. I was that wasteful freshman too just a few months ago. Ashamedly, I threw out my plastic toothbrush container and plastic soap container at the end of my dorm days, wondering why I bought them in the first place not to mention the shower shoes and storage containers meant only for my dorm; so many items have been lost to the waste-mountains. As I prepared to purchase housing products for my apartment over the summer, I figured out I went about decorating my dorm room all wrong. I could have kept the same comfortability while still being sustainable. I should have thought before purchasing, shopped secondhand or researched sustainable brands to buy from. Now I apply this knowledge to almost everything I purchase but I believe I can speak for a lot of students out there when I say that at the time I just didnt know how to be sustainable. According to Planet Aid, the average college student produces 640 pounds of trash annually, with a significant spike in the amount of solid waste furniture, knick-knacks, temporarily used items, etc. on college campuses specifically during the months of May and June. This spike points to an average of 230 tons of waste produced within the two months when college students move out of their living spaces during the typical school year. Now imagine this amount of waste every year, across every campus. Thats just trash a lot of it. Ruby Mulgrew, a junior at UO, just moved into Kappa Alpha Thetas sorority house. After a year break from living in the dorms, she ran into some issues with having to purchase dorm essentials again. I didn't keep any of my products. I dumped my shower caddy because it was disgusting and was never going to use it again, Mulgrew said. I also got rid of my mattress topper because I couldn't lug it back home for the summer either. Now that shes living in a sorority a situation similar to dorm life Mulgrew needed to repurchase everything shed already disposed of. As she was talking to other members of her chapter, she found out that the juniors of the [sorority house] had to re-buy everything [as well] because they didn't know they were going to join a sorority in college. Mulgrew believes such issues with dormitory sustainability can be easily fixed. University of Oregon should set up a donation bin and store it over the summer, then offer [the items] to new students who move in, Mulgrew said. Tuition is already expensive. And when additionally paying for food, housing and cleaning products, the money adds up just as quickly as trash does. The Zero Waste Program at UO has seen this issue across campus for a while now. Founded in 1990, the program seeks to reduce waste across campus and has some guidelines for students on sorting trash. While these guidelines are great, they could provide more information about different kinds of waste, such as personal items. Since the Zero Waste Program aims for literally zero waste, isnt it about time to tackle what to do with dorm waste? What should students do with their shower caddies in June, for example? As you move through the year (yes, literally moving in and out), remember the humbling fact that you might be that average college student producing 640 pounds of waste. I know I didnt know that last year at this time. Keep your items for a little longer, give them to a friend who needs them or wait and see what products you truly need before purchasing. This will save you money and time and it also helps reduce a lot of waste pollution. Opinion: Every day, the news cycle barrages us with stories of Republican politicians inflammatory choices. These extremists are taking us closer to a Christian nationalist state which must be prevented at all costs. ----------- On Sept. 14, 48 Venezuelan migrants in San Antonio, Texas, were taken onto a chartered plane and flown to Marthas Vineyard, Mass. They had originally come to the U.S. to seek asylum. Though the migrants had been given promises of awaiting jobs and money, they were unceremoniously left in this affluent town of 15,000 people. Behind this action, which has been described as a sadistic immigration stunt by Atlantic writer Tom Nichols, were the Republican governors of Florida and Texas, Ron DeSantis and Greg Abbott. In fact, sending a plane of vulnerable migrants to a town thats a known residence of the Obama family and a playground for other wealthy liberals is only one check on a growing list of similar actions. Abbott has personally organized buses of migrants to be sent to the residence of Vice President Kamala Harris and cities such as Chicago. To fund these actions, the governors have used taxpayer money, including a $12 million Florida COVID-19 relief fund. It amounts to using migrants as pawns with exceedingly cruel intentions. Ever since the rise of Trump, Republicans have become emboldened in their actions, fanning the flames of a long burning culture war into a blaze. People across the country are understandably angered by these actions and are pointing out the different potential ways the governors and those helping them broke laws. Unfortunately, we have seen this cycle of righteous outrage many times. Due to slow moving court systems and a lack of accountability for powerful people in general, nothing concrete ever sticks to such slippery politicians. For instance, similarly infamous Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz was cleared of all charges in a federal investigation into accusations of sex trafficking, despite credible evidence against him. Taking advantage of migrants trying to start a new life is one of many cruel acts happening in the public eye. Americans have become desensitized toward the shift to authoritarian far-right rhetoric happening in the Republican party and by extension, our government. Through what theyre doing and saying, right-wing politicians are making their intentions clearer than ever. Instead of drowning them out and dismissing Republican politicians maneuvers as crazy, its important to pay attention to what theyre trying to tell us. The rights and well-being of so many Americans are on the line, if not already at risk through a myriad of anti-immigration policies and the rollback of Roe v. Wade. DeSantis, Abbott and many others like them have carte blanche to exploit and cause the suffering of others to their advantage. Now, the role of DeSantis needs to be examined, especially with him gearing up for a 2024 presidential campaign largely reliant on appealing to Christian nationalism. It is time to break the cycle of inaction in America before it is too late. South Korea's new envoy for North Korean human rights will make her first visit to the United States this week since taking office, officials said Sunday. Lee Shin-hwa plans to meet officials of the State Department and the White House, as well as experts and activists, in Washington, D.C., during her four-day trip starting Wednesday to discuss various pending issues, including Pyongyang's nuclear threat and missile provocations. Lee, a political science professor at Korea University, was appointed as the new envoy in July, filling a post that has been left vacant since September 2017. North Korea's human rights record has drawn greater international attention since the U.N. Commission of Inquiry issued a report in 2014 after a yearlong probe, saying North Korean leaders are responsible for "widespread, systematic and gross" violations of human rights. North Korea has long been accused of grave human rights abuses, ranging from holding political prisoners in concentration camps to committing torture and carrying out public executions. Still, North Korea has bristled at outside criticism, calling it a U.S.-led attempt to topple its regime. (Yonhap) South Africa: Shortage of healthcare workers crippling global health system, says Phaahla Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, says the shortage of healthcare workers is threatening the quality and sustainability of health systems in Africa and worldwide. Health care is a fundamental human right. But without health workers, there cannot be health services, he said on Sunday. The Minister was speaking at an official opening of the 24th Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA) international conference under the theme The Health Workforce of the Future and its Regulation at the Sun City Resort, North West. AMCOA is a membership-based organisation with over 30 country members from all regions of Africa and strives to promote best practices among the continents regulatory authorities and to respond to their current and future needs. Phaahla told delegates that the world has been grappling with a serious shortage of healthcare workers, even before the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. He said the under-investment in education and training and the mismatch between education and employment strategies in relation to health systems and population needs were some of the contributing factors to this catastrophe. Phaahla described the crisis in human resources as one of the most pressing global health issues of our time. In addition, Phaahla said the undersupply is concurrent with globalisation and the liberalisation of markets, which allow healthcare workers to offer their services in countries other than those of their origin. He said workers based in rural and poor areas often move to cities for better working conditions and environments, while the urban-based leave the public sector for the private sector. Finally, these professionals and their colleagues in the public sector eventually immigrate to more developed countries to obtain greater pay, better working conditions, the overall better quality of life and improved opportunities for themselves and their families. He warned that migration to greener pastures, particularly in the case of professionals with exportable skills, has always occurred and will continue. The Minister has since urged regulators to deal with other associated challenges and problems. Meanwhile, the demand for health services is increasing in light of the ageing population and the prevalence of infectious, non-communicable diseases and multimorbidity. According to the Minister, these have created greater demand for health and care workers in primary health in particular. These shortages, he said, continue to undermine access to and provision of health services, particularly in primary care settings. This is the most critical challenge to achieving universal health coverage, he said. Without the availability of a competent and appropriately skilled health workforce, adequate numbers and proportionately distributed, many citizens of our continent struggle to get access to the services they need. In addition, he noted the countries shrinking health budgets due to subdued economic growth. This certainly puts a lot of pressure on the whole health ecosystem. COVID-19 He also highlighted the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic that has challenged the essential health systems development and provision. The Minister noted that health workers are often the most vulnerable to infectious diseases when outbreaks strike. In the early months of the pandemic, he said health professionals made up 14% of all new COVID-19 cases, while about 80 000 to 180 000 healthcare workers are said to have died from the virus between January 2020 and May 2021. Gender He also recognised the importance of gender dynamics in this sector, with women constituting 67% of the health and care workforce globally. Phaahla said improving gender equity is essential to strengthening workforce numbers, distribution, skill mix, and human resource policy and planning failures. We are aware that women still encounter gendered issues such as occupational segregation, pay inequality and underrepresentation in leadership and decisionmaking in many countries. He has called on the delegates to reflect on these complex matters. This conference needs, as I argued before, to reflect on the kind of regulatory mechanisms needed for the scopes of practice to deliver health services in our modern societies. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2022-10-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Chinese Festival celebrated in U.S. state of Colorado Xinhua) 14:59, October 03, 2022 DENVER, the United States, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Sounds of Chinese instruments accompanied a dragon dance team as they mimicked the postures and movements of the dragon at a Chinese Festival in the U.S. state of Colorado on Saturday afternoon. Frank Leitz, the lead dancer, lifted, dipped, thrust, and swept the dragon's head, as the dragon regaled the crowd at the Centennial Center Park near downtown Denver, to bestow good luck and prosperity. The performance drew the attention of hundreds of visitors to the Chinese Festival of Colorado, in celebration of the Chinese National Day and the Chinese traditional Moon Festival. Guests from local American and Chinese communities enjoyed an enchanting guzheng musical piece and a Chinese classical dance performance. Students from Chinese language schools in Denver performed Chinese songs. Guests were also invited to taste a variety of Chinese foods and snacks. "We hope to celebrate the Chinese festival with the local community, and have more people experience the Chinese culture. Cultural exchanges serve as a bridge in enhancing our mutual understanding and China-U.S. relations," Feng Mimi, honorary president of the Chinese American Association for Rocky Mountain Region, the organizer of the festival, told Xinhua. Alice Britton, one of the hostesses and dancers at the festival, speaks fluent Chinese. The 11-year-old started to learn Chinese when she was three. "I love to be immersed in Chinese culture, Chinese food and traditions. I love Chinese dance, which has a beautiful rhythm," she said. Her mother said her whole family love joining Chinese cultural events and would love to introduce traditional and modern Chinese culture to more Americans. Leitz, the lead dragon dancer, said he has a true passion for Chinese history, adding that the Chinese Festival is a very good opportunity to engage with the community and embrace different cultures. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) This file photo, taken Sept. 25, shows a news report on a North Korean missile launch being aired on a TV screen at Seoul Station. Yonhap North Korea fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) over Japan on Tuesday in its first launch of an IRBM in eight months, according to South Korea's military. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected the launch from Mupyong-ri in the northern province of Jagang at 7:23 a.m. and that the missile flew some 4,500 kilometers at an apogee of around 970 km at a top speed of Mach 17. The missile flew past Japan, it added, saying the intelligence authorities of South Korea and the United States are conducting a detailed analysis to verify the specifics of the missile. Pyongyang last fired an IRBM in January. The Hwasong 12-type missile flew some 800 kilometers at a top altitude of 2,000 km. "The series of North Korea's ballistic missile provocations will further strengthen deterrence and the response capabilities of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and only deepen the North's isolation from the international community," the JCS said in a text message sent to reporters. It also condemned the launch as an act of "significant" provocation that undermines peace and stability not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in the international community, and a "clear" breach of U.N. Security Council resolutions. Soon after the launch, JCS Chairman Gen. Kim Seung-kyum and Gen. Paul LaCamera, the commander of the South Korea-U.S. Combined Forces Command, had virtual consultations and reaffirmed they would solidify the allies' combined defense posture against "any North Korean threats and provocations," according to the JCS. Few nations have as deep a sense of their own history as the Russians. Indeed, it was on the basis of a tendentious tract about the historic 'unity' of Russians and Ukrainians that President Putin justified his invasion of an independent neighbouring state. But another word, also with great resonance in Russian history, now hangs over the Kremlin's flailing military campaign. And that word is: Mutiny. Remarkably, it was raised on Moscow's main TV channel last week by the woman described as Putin's propagandist-in-chief, Margarita Simonyan, during the nightly discussion programme on the state of the 'special military operation'. The striking-looking Simonyan is the head of RT, the Kremlin's English-language broadcasting network (now banned in the UK); but here she was speaking to a Russian audience. Morale is desperately low, even before still worse-equipped and less battle-ready forces are pressed into fighting a Ukrainian army furnished with some of Nato's most lethal weaponry and which has recently achieved stunning victories She was raging about the incompetence with which Putin's 'partial mobilisation', announced on September 21, was being carried out, and the gross inadequacy of the provisions being supplied to the hundreds of thousands being called up to fight: 'Students, people with serious illnesses, single mothers, people as old as 62 . . . and being handed rotten things, no helmets or body armour.' Criticism She warned the heads of the armed forces: 'Comrade Commanders: don't anger the people!' And now came the reference to historic precedent. Simonyan told the 'commanders' to remember the mutiny on the Battleship Potemkin during the Russo-Japanese war of 1905, which was provoked by the fact that all the meat available to the crew had been maggot-infested. 'Let me remind you that in 1905, small things like that led to the first mutiny of an entire military unit in the history of our country. Is that what you want?' She exempted Putin from all criticism, of course, and praised her ultimate boss for taking 'the very heavy load of responsibility solely upon himself'. I doubt that would have comforted the increasingly deluded occupant of the Kremlin. Like the invasion of Ukraine, the 1905 Russo-Japanese war saw the much larger country suffer from a series of blunders based on an exaggerated sense of its own military capability and, to some astonishment, the Japanese won. Another word, also with great resonance in Russian history, now hangs over the Kremlin's flailing military campaign. And that word is: Mutiny. Remarkably, it was raised on Moscow's main TV channel last week by the woman described as Putin's propagandist-in-chief, Margarita Simonyan, during the nightly discussion programme on the state of the 'special military operation' The Potemkin mutiny was put down, but the privations and humiliations linked to that conflict led to uprisings in Russia itself known as the 1905 Revolution. The result was that the Tsar was forced to concede political reforms, including the inauguration of multi-party elections. Lenin and the Bolsheviks saw the Potemkin mutiny as an inspiration for their own seizure of power in 1917. They commissioned the Soviet director Sergei Eisenstein to make a film about this historic event. Battleship Potemkin, first screened in 1925, became the totemic account for the masses of why 'the workers' rise up against the oppressive commands and callousness of their masters. In 1917, there were occasional mutinies among the ill-equipped Russian army, almost two million of whose soldiers perished in the Great War. But the mutiny that did for Tsar Nicholas who had taken personal command of the army in 1915 was in the garrison in Petrograd (now St Petersburg). The soldiers refused to obey the Tsar's orders to suppress uprisings in that city, and, in short order, a 'provisional government' was set up, with the Tsar abdicating the following day, March 15. Footage of Russian troops being told to take their wives' and girlfriends' tampons for putting in any wounds they receive, as no tourniquets are available It was the next year that Nicholas II and his family met their grisly fate shot dead and bayoneted by the Bolsheviks. The revolutionaries' overthrow of the provisional government was, again, assisted by mutiny among the army, whose troops had been won over by Lenin's promise to abandon the war. Clearly, the slaughter in Ukraine is on nothing like the scale of World War I. But the reason Putin, with evident reluctance, felt forced to call up hundreds of thousands more is that so many of his best troops had already been slaughtered. Morale is desperately low, even before still worse-equipped and less battle-ready forces are pressed into fighting a Ukrainian army furnished with some of Nato's most lethal weaponry and which has recently achieved stunning victories. Corpses It is not sympathy with the people of Ukraine that has caused tens of thousands of able-bodied Russian males to flee the country over the past week, but fear that they, too, once conscripted, would soon become part of the next layer of corpses on Ukrainian soil. And in Dagestan, a republic in which 99 per cent of the population had supposedly voted for Putin, and where a disproportionate number of young men have been called up, there have been demonstrations by mothers holding banners declaring: 'Our children are not fertiliser!' Last week, the New York Times published extracts from thousands of intercepted personal calls made in March by Russian troops as they were forced back from the suburbs of Kyiv. The NYT had been passed the recordings by the Ukrainian security agencies, but published them only now because the paper had spent months checking that all the phone numbers and identities were genuine. Here is a selection, edited to take out some of the (understandable) profanities. Nikita, to his mother: 'Sixty per cent of the regiment is gone already.' Yevgeny, to his partner: 'No one is left from my Kostroma regiment.' Sergey, to his mother: 'There were 400 paratroopers. And only 38 survived because our commanders sent soldiers to the slaughter.' Sergey to his girlfriend, explaining why they'd shot their captives in Bucha rather than keep them as prisoners: 'We would have had to feed them, and we don't have enough food ourselves.' A similar selection had been published a month ago by the Kyiv Post, which gave more details of the fury of Russian troops with their own officers (very much in the spirit of the Potemkin mutineers). They talk about flatly refusing to fight which helps explain why thousands of Russian troops had simply fled from Ukrainian forces in the Kharkiv region, leaving vast amounts of munitions and armour behind them. An intercepted call dated September 2 reveals a Russian soldier telling a relative: 'In our unit, they're going to get together, they're going to go to [the senior commander] Zavatsky, and lay down their arms all the infantry, it looks to me, they couldn't give a s*** any more about anything.' The reason Putin, with evident reluctance, felt forced to call up hundreds of thousands more is that so many of his best troops had already been slaughtered Humiliating Other recorded conversations of those on the Ukrainian side show how surprised, and even shocked, they had been by the ease with which they had killed the Russian invaders: the most recent one involves the battle for the control of the strategic hub of Lyman in Donetsk, which Ukraine recaptured over the weekend. This was especially humiliating for Putin, as he had only just declared that region to be a part of Russia, following one of his phony referendums. What follows, from an American volunteer fighting alongside the Ukrainians, is harrowing: 'Lots of dead Russians. Like hunting squirrels in a pecan orchard . . . We cut them down before they knew what was happening. They had little ammo, no med kits, very little food . . . I came away shaking like a leaf, not scared, just 'wired' and sick of killing people.' By all accounts, Putin, who has increasingly taken personal control of military planning, a la Nicholas II, had resisted his officers' request to retreat earlier from Lyman. This latest slaughter of Russians is on him, and him alone, even if Margarita Simonyan and others of the Kremlin's propagandists continue to claim that the setbacks to put it mildly are the responsibility of the 'commanders' rather than the Commander-in-Chief. But her warnings of 'mutiny' and even a 'Potemkin' moment rooted in some of the most tumultuous episodes of Russian history are the augury of the end of this war, if not of Putin's fall. Russia's troops are not just short of food and the most basic equipment; in the recent call-up, they have even been told to take their wives' and girlfriends' tampons for putting in any wounds they receive, as no tourniquets are available. Putin sees himself as the successor to his country's most revered rulers notably Peter the Great in restoring what he regards as territory rightfully Russia's. Instead, he faces the fate of the last of the Tsars. A 'large and untargeted fiscal package' was the scathing verdict of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Kwasi Kwarteng's mini-Budget last week: an extraordinary intervention from a body normally charged with rescuing basket-case economies in Latin America. Ministers were furious. And sources tell me there is a strong suspicion among senior government figures that allies of the ousted Treasury mandarin Sir Tom Scholar might have had something to do with it. One of Kwarteng's first acts as Chancellor was to sack Scholar, the Permanent Secretary at the Treasury since 2016. An arch-Remainer who previously served as David Cameron's 'Adviser for Europe', Scholar epitomised the stuffy economic orthodoxy that Kwarteng and Liz Truss are seeking to overthrow. International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva (pictured in March). A 'large and untargeted fiscal package' was the scathing verdict of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Kwasi Kwarteng's mini-Budget last week But, says my Treasury mole, his defenestration enraged Whitehall: 'Scholar still has a big cadre of supporters. The IMF attack reeked of their revenge.' Lord Moore, Margaret Thatcher's official biographer, agrees. 'I would not be surprised to learn that friends of Sir Tom Scholar . . . have been expressing their dismay to their friends in the IMF's headquarters in Washington,' he said last week. IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva who served as vice-president of the European Commission has remained notably silent in the wake of what Lord Moore called the organisation's 'deliberately unfriendly' statement. Our latest Corbyn nightmayor... In 2020, Corbyn had the whip removed after he claimed that reports of vile anti-Semitism in the party had been 'dramatically overstated for political reasons' A new group calling itself 'Islington Friends of Jeremy Corbyn' is fighting for the disgraced ex-Labour leader to be readmitted to the parliamentary party ahead of the next election. In 2020, Corbyn had the whip removed after he claimed that reports of vile anti-Semitism in the party had been 'dramatically overstated for political reasons' which means he will have to stand as an independent for his North London seat at the next election. If the campaign fails, Saint Jeremy, 73, is rumoured to be planning to run for London Mayor potentially splitting the Left-wing vote and handing the Tories the capital for the first time since Boris left in 2016. 1m helps to keep the red flag flying Sir Keir Starmer has been boasting that Labour has just enjoyed its most lucrative conference in years Back from Liverpool and looking notably self-congratulatory, Sir Keir Starmer has been boasting that Labour has just enjoyed its most lucrative conference in years. I'm told exhibitors from Barclays to the giant Unite union coughed up more than 1 million for the chance to mingle with the comrades. Talk about trickle-down economics! Discussing the rising cost of living in an interview with ITV News, millionaire Sir Keir whines: 'My mortgage has gone up because we're on a variable rate . . . by a number of hundreds of pounds.' Don't feel too sorry for him. His three-storey house in North London is easily worth 2.4 m and he bought in 2004, more than enough time to make a dent in the mortgage. The BBC has decided not to reschedule the cancelled Last Night Of The Proms originally planned to run two days after the Queen's death. The BBC has decided not to reschedule the cancelled Last Night Of The Proms originally planned to run two days after the Queen's death 'Some thought it should have gone ahead as a fitting tribute to Her Majesty, but there's no plan to reinstate it: sadly it would be too costly,' a BBC insider says. But might Auntie's execs be secretly delighted that the stirring show of patriotic flag-waving won't take place this year? You be the judge. Quote of the day Richard Tice, leader of the Reform Party (which yesterday held its annual conference a mile from the Tories in Birmingham), has zero tolerance for illegal immigration. 'We should leave the European Court of Human Rights,' says Tice. 'We must pick migrants out of boats and take them back to France. We can do this legally under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea laws.' Ministers take note: at least someone is proposing radical solutions. 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. Amazon shoppers are going wild for a now 34 hob-to-oven aluminium casserole dish that has been likened to the prestigious French cookware brand Le Creuset's 270 model. The MasterClass Medium Casserole Dish is a hugely popular kitchen buy on Amazon with thousands of users raving about the quality for the price - even claiming it's a dupe for premium brand Le Creuset. MasterClass Medium Casserole Dish With Lid The MasterClass Medium Casserole Dish is ideal for creating hearty meals this autumn and winter. The versatile casserole dish works with all hobs (induction included) and is oven safe. Better still, the clever self-basting lid means the dish is great for slow cooking as the flavours and juices simply drip back down into the pan. Shop If you want something similar to the quality of Le Creuset but aren't prepared to fork out, it's worth checking out the now 34 MasterClass Medium Casserole Dish A culinary classic, the casserole dish has been called the 'best pan ever', with users impressed by the 'excellent heat distribution', calling it 'amazingly lightweight ' and 'amazingly easy to clean'. Now on sale for 34, you can snap up the MasterClass Medium Casserole Dish for 236 cheaper than Le Creuset. And shoppers are finding it hard to tell the difference. 'Bought to replace very old Le Creuset and impressed by performance and ease of use (so much lighter and still a great result)' raved one reviewer. Another shopper agreed adding: 'Move over Le Creuset, your time is past', going on to call it 'superb', raving how 'it looks like a heavy casserole but is really lightweight'. Unsurprisingly the MasterClass Casserole Dish has attracted a big fan base with home cooks, often selling out as soon as it goes on sale. Over 80 per cent of its reviewers have rated the dish a perfect five-star review, with users raving about the quality and performance, specifically loving how lightweight it is. Not only substantially cheaper than its competition, it's also significantly lighter, weighing just 1.11kg for a 4-litre pot, which makes it far easier to handle. Lightweight, aluminium is also a very good heat conductor, meaning your favourite recipes cook evenly and develop their flavours in less time. Win, win. Better still, the stainless steel base makes it hugely versatile, and safe for any heat source, including induction hobs and ovens. The versatile 4-litre MasterClass Casserole Dish is perfect for hearty autumn meals like casseroles, stews, chillis, pasta and roasts One impressed shopper left a perfect five-star review for the casserole dish, writing: 'Used this dish every day since I bought it and its amazingly easy to clean, everything just wipes straight off. 'Been looking for ages for a dish to go from hob to oven at an affordable price- this is just what I was looking for. Would definitely recommend Just wish Id found this sooner.' Another agreed, adding: 'Excellent product. Super light, great nonstick bottom. The little handles get super hot, but I guess I should pick up the handle grips. Great value for money.' A third penned: 'I am so impressed with the weight and quality of this dish. I've used it a couple of times in the oven and it washes really well in the dishwasher. 'You can't beat the price, and it doesn't weigh a tonne or hurt your wrists like those heavy cast iron le Cruset ones.' As the autumn weather starts to set in, many of us are looking for a wardrobe refresh. And, as these stylish royals prove, a grey suit is one of the most hardworking pieces you can own. Queen Letizia of Spain, Princess Charlene of Monaco, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark have all stepped out in grey suits in recent days, proving its a transitional trend that's not going anywhere. The suits can come in all shapes, styles and shades, and be worn with anything from a comfy rollneck to a crisp white shirt, making it an extremely versatile ensemble. 'The grey suit is the ultimate hardworking hero wardrobe piece, striking the perfect tone between business and sultry, whilst never being overpowering,' stylist Miranda Holder told FEMAIL. Queen Letizia of Spain, 50, was pictured in a deep grey suit with a blue hint as she attended a meeting at The Royal Spanish Academy in Madrid on Thursday Crown Princess Mary of Denmark stepped out in a sharp grey suit to attend the Danish Industry Award 2022 on Tuesday night Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, 45, has been another royal in the past few days having fun with a grey suit. The future Queen cut a stylish figure as she stepped out in wide leg grey checked suit whilst attending the 50th anniversary celebration of the Oland Bridge in Kalmar Princess Charlene of Monaco also opted for the hardworking grey suit as she stepped out in a charcoal flare as she celebrated the 10th year of Prince Rainier III of Monaco at the Monaco Palace 'Both Queen Letizia of Spain and Mary, Crown Princess of Denmark looked immaculate in their outfits embracing soft power dressing to present a composed and neutral form.' She continued: 'The colour grey represents wisdom, intelligent and integrity, whilst evoking a sense of calm sophistication. 'As well as this it's the perfect neutral tone for any wardrobe, complementing both arm and cool hues.' Queen Letizia of Spain, 50, was pictured in a deep grey suit with a blue hint as she attended a meeting at The Royal Spanish Academy in Madrid on Thursday. The stylish mother-of-two elegantly paired the two-piece relaxed suit with a black t-shirt and black pumps. Stylist Miranda Holder has said Queen Letizia of Spain looked immaculate in her suit embracing soft power dressing to present a composed and neutral form The Spanish royal isn't the only one who is experiment with the monochrome palette, Crown Princess Mary of Denmark stepped out in a sharp grey suit to attend the Danish Industry Award 2022 on Tuesday night. Mary, 50, looked ever-so-chic in a grey checked blazer and matching trousers by Alexander McQueen as she entered the Royal Arena in Copenhagen She paired the sophisticated power suit with a simple blue ribbed shirt, Mulberry handbag, understated jewellery and grey suede pumps. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, 45, has been another royal in the past few days having fun with a grey suit. UK-based stylist Miranda Holder said that Crown Princess Mary embraced the powerful yet neutral tones and used it well as a base to accessorise The future Queen cut a stylish figure as she stepped out in wide leg grey checked suit whilst attending the 50th anniversary celebration of the Oland Bridge in Kalmar. Mother-of-two Victoria get on theme with a grey polo neck jumper letting her statement suit do the work. She tied her brown hair back and opted for large silver hoop earrings to complete her trendy autumn look. Princess Charlene of Monaco also opted for the hardworking grey suit as she stepped out in a charcoal flare as she celebrated the 10th year of Prince Rainier III of Monaco at the Monaco Palace. The grey suit is a powerful statement, which Princess Charlene (pictured) knows how to do well. She paired her suit with a sharp white shirt Known for her power dressing, the stylish royal, 44, looked sharp as she paired her deep grey suit with a crisp white shirt and simple pearl drop earrings. Miranda champions how the grey suit can be styled up or down and can be re-worn countless times for any occasion. She added: 'The art of rewearing your wardrobe on numerous occasions has been demonstrated successfully of late by our much loved British Royals such as Princess Kate and Camilla the Queen Consort, and even the late Queen Elizabeth II herself. 'This was a wonderful way to appear relevant to their public, by making their wardrobes a little more accessible and relatable to fashion loving onlookers. 'There is a comforting familiarity in seeing the same pieces used in different ways time and time again - demonstrated by the late Queen herself with her colourful monochromatic looks, and finally, it helps to cement their personal brand and make them even more iconic.' A bride's friend has been accused of 'stealing her thunder' after announcing that she is two months pregnant at her beachside bachelorette. Katie Jo Germany, 24, from Omaha, Nebraska, went viral this month when she shared a video of her pal Claire surprising her with the happy news a moment that has divided TikTok. 'When your best friend tells you she's pregnant at your bachelorette party,' she explained using the app's text-to-speech feature. Katie Jo Germany, 24, from Omaha, Nebraska, went viral this month when she shared a TikTok video of her pal Claire announcing she is two months pregnant at her bachelorette party Claire spilled the beans when they were on the beach filming a playful video in which they each approached the camera and said where their outfits were from The mom-to-be, who was the second to last to go, listed her dress as Zara, her necklace from Kendra Scott, 'and baby bump from Riley' - her husband Claire spilled the beans when they were on the beach filming a playful video in which they each approached the camera and said where their outfit and accessories are from. The mom-to-be, who was the second to last to go, listed her dress as Zara, her necklace from Kendra Scott, 'and baby bump from Riley' her husband. Claire placed her hand on her stomach and looked back at Katie Jo. The confused bride wasn't sure what was going on when she stepped up to take her turn and finish the video. 'I didnt know that was going to happen,' another friend shouted off camera. Claire placed her hand on her stomach and looked back at a confused Katie Jo Katie Jo was about to say where her white dress was from when she turned back at Claire and asked, 'Waitwhat?' Her friend then confirmed that she is two months pregnant Katie Jo was about to say where her white dress was from when she turned back at Claire and asked, 'Waitwhat?' 'Im two months pregnant,' her bestie confirmed. The bride's jaw dropped as Claire moved in to give her a hug. 'I didn't know you weren't drinking,' she told her pregnant pal. Katie Jo made it clear that she is as happy as can be for Claire, adding, 'I love you bestie. You're going to be the best mama.' Katie Jo's jaw dropped as Claire moved in to give her a hug. The bride used the app's text-to-speech feature to gush that her pal is 'going to be the best mama' The moment between the two friends has divided viewers, with some insisting it was a sweet surprise and others claiming Claire stole Katie Jo's spotlight 'The best gift. Cant wait to watch you be the best parents. ILY,' she captioned the video, which has been viewed more than 9.1 million times. The heartwarming moment between the two friends has divided viewers, with some insisting it was a sweet surprise and others claiming Claire stole Katie Jo's spotlight. 'She could have been like, "I got it wrong, lemme go again,"' one person insisted. 'Let the bachelorette party be about the bride.' 'Definition of "how can I make this about me,"' another critic commented. '"How can I surprise my best friend with the most amazing news ever,"' Katie Joe corrected her. Katie Jo has made it clear that she was thrilled by the announcement and filmed a follow-up video hitting back at her friend's critics 'B.F.F.R. What does that spell? Be f**king for real,' she lip-synced before giving the camera the middle finger 'Anyone seen that episode from friends between Rachel & Monica? About the thunder stealing you know? #iykyk,' someone else added. Katie Jo insisted numerous times in the comments that she was thrilled by the surprise, and even Claire chimed in, agreeing that her timing wasn't the best. 'Yup not ideal time/place, but 1. I live OOT and it was the first time I had seen her in over a month! 2. she knows me too well to lie all weekend,' she explained. Katie Jo hit back at her friend's critics in a follow-up video, writing, 'You have a TikTok go viral and all the hate comments are rolling in.' 'B.F.F.R. What does that spell? Be f**king for real,' she lip-synced before giving the camera the middle finger. 'Just ew,' she added in the caption. King Charles III and the Queen Consort have received more than '50,000 letters and cards' since the Queen's death last month, the royal family has said. A dedicated correspondence team are said to be 'sorting, reading and responding' to the heartfelt messages for the family, according to an Instagram post. The surge of support comes as the new monarch, 73, and The Queen Consort, 75, prepare to visit Scotland today to take part in their first engagement since the end of the mourning period. The official Royal Family Instagram account took to social media to share images of condolence cards decorated with crowns, amid hundreds of stacks of envelopes. King Charles III and Camilla (pictured at the late Queen's funeral last month) have received more than '50,000 letters and cards' since Queen Elizabeth II's death last month, the royal family has said The official Royal Family Instagram account took to social media to share images of condolence cards decorated with crowns, amid hundreds of stacks of envelopes A dedicated correspondence team are said to be 'sorting, reading and responding' to the messages for the family One sweet card read 'We are thinking of you', while other letters were adorned with crafty decorations and colourful drawings. In a post on Saturday, the caption read: 'Over 50,000 letters and cards have been sent to The King, The Queen Consort and Members of The Royal Family following the death of Queen Elizabeth. 'A small but dedicated Correspondence Team are carefully sorting, reading and responding to the messages as they arrive.' Meanwhile the king and Queen Consort will today make appearances in Scotland. One card read 'We are thinking of you', while other letters were adorned with crafty decorations and colourful drawings In a post on Saturday, the caption read: 'Over 50,000 letters and cards have been sent to The King, The Queen Consort and Members of The Royal Family following the death of Queen Elizabeth...' They are set to attend a council meeting at the City Chambers and visit Dunfermline Abbey, to mark it achieving city status. Eight places were made cities, as part of celebrations marking the 70-year reign of the late Queen, after successfully bidding for the honour under the Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours Competition. The pair will then host a reception to celebrate British South Asian communities at The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. The King will also host his first state visit as monarch from the President and First Lady of South Africa next month, it has today been announced. The surge of support comes as the new monarch, 73, and The Queen Consort, 75, (pictured yesterday) will today take part in their first post-mourning engagement in Scotland President Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by Tshepo Motsepe, have accepted the invitation to attend Buckingham Palace in November. King Charles III has visited South Africa on a number of occasions since his first tour of the country, which included Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, in 1997. His last trip was in 2011, along with the Queen Consort - then the Duchess of Cornwall. Charles was also present at Nelson Mandela's funeral in 2013, remarking the world would be a 'poorer place without him' and that he was owed 'an enormous debt of gratitude for what he's managed to achieve with his life'. The pair also welcomed President Jacob Zuma at the start of a state visit in the UK in 2010. Mr Ramaphosa's visit will take place from Tuesday November 22 to Thursday November 24 and be hosted by the King and Queen Consort at Buckingham Palace. Prince Joachim of Denmark has admitted his relationship with his brother Crown Prince Frederik is 'complicated' - and that he still hasn't heard from his mother Queen Margrethe II after she stripped his children of their royal titles. A bitter royal row within the Danish Royal Household has unfolded in recent days after Margrethe, 82, announced she would be removing princely titles from Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13, and Princess Athena, 10. As of January 1 2023, they will become Counts and Countesses, and will be known as Their Excellencies, rather than His or Her Royal Highness. Speaking to B.T. this weekend amid the royal rift, Joachim and his second wife Marie admitted their relationship with Prince Frederik, who is heir to the throne, and his wife Princess Mary, is 'complicated'. They also said Queen Margrethe has 'unfortunately not' tried to speak to them, with Joachim adding: 'Its also family. Or whatever we want to call it.' During the interview, B.T reported that a French woman approached the royal couple and told them their children will always be princes and princesses to her, apparently leaving Marie and Joachim in tears. Elsewhere, Marie, the mother of Joachim's two youngest children, told the Danish news outlet that her daughter Athena is being bullied at school after the decision was publicly announced earlier this week. 'They come and say (to Athena): Is it you who is no longer a princess?,' she said, adding that her children were put under the public spotlight and so she feels the need to defend them. Last week, Joachim hit out at his mother Margrethe's decision, saying it 'punished' his children, as well as claiming he had only been told the news five days before it was made public - despite the Royal Household insisting the move 'has been a long time coming'. Prince Joachim and Princess Marie of Denmark (pictured) have admitted their relationship with Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary is 'complicated' - and that they still haven't heard from Margrethe II after she stripped four of her grandchildren of their royal titles A bitter royal row within the household has unfolded in recent days after Queen Margrethe, 82, announced she would be removing princely titles from Joachim's children, Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13, and Princess Athena, 10. Pictured, Marie, Joachim, Mary and Frederik on 11 September 2022 in Denmark As of January 1, Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13, and Princess Athena, 10, will become Counts and Countesses, and will be known as Their Excellencies, it was announced on Wednesday. Pictured, the children with Prince Joachim and Princess Marie on September 11, 2022 Front: Queen Margrethe, Middle Row (left to right): Prince Vincent, Princess Josephine, Princess Athena, Prince Henrik. Back row (left to right): Princess Benedikte, Princess Isabella, Crown Princess Mary, Crown Prince Frederik, Prince Christian, Prince Joachim, Princess Marie, Prince Felix and Prince Nikolai in a portrait celebrating Queen Margrethe's Golden Jubilee The Danish Royal Family tree. Prince Joachim's children Nikolai, 23, Felix, 20, Henrik, 13, and Athena, 10, will all be losing their titles on January 1 2023 Meanwhile, Princess Mary came out in public support of her mother-in-law's move while speaking in an interview with Ekstra Bladet in Copenhagen on Friday, saying that while 'change can be extremely difficult and can really hurt... this does not mean that the decision is not the right one'. The oldest son of Australian-born Princess Mary, 50, and Frederik is Prince Christian, 16, who is second-in-line to the throne. Frederick and Mary's four children - Prince Christian, 16, Princess Isabella, 15, and twins Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent, 11 - remain unaffected by the monarch's decision as they are direct descendants of the future King. However Princess Mary suggested that might not always be the case, saying they will 'also look at [their] children's titles when the time comes'. Speaking about the monarch's intention to slim down the Danish royal family, Joachim said: 'The reality must still be: whether you modernize or slim down, it must be done in a proper way. It's about children. Orderliness and children. It is a very heavy matter.' Commenting on Princess Mary's point that her children may too lose titles in the future, Joachim said: 'I don't know how they feel if they have to think it through. Now is preparation time. We didn't have that.' Last week, commenting on his children's reaction to the move to B.T., Joachim said his children 'don't know which leg to stand on as their identity is removed' - and questioned 'why must they be punished in that way?'. Prince Joachim of Denmark (pictured) has once again hit out at his mother Queen Margrethe II's decision to strip his four children of their royal titles Speaking in Copenhagen (pictured) Crown Princess Mary of Denmark defended her mother-in-law Queen Margrethe's decision to strip four of her grandchildren of their royal titles, and suggested her own children's positions might not be secure Australian-born Princess Mary, 50, is the wife of Crown Prince Frederick of Denmark, who is Queen Margrethe II's eldest son and heir. Their eldest son, Prince Christian, 16, is second-in-line to the throne behind his father Frederick. Pictured, Mary and Frederick with their children (from left) Isabella, Josephine, Christian and Vincent earlier this month The prince, who is Margrethe's youngest son, said: 'I can say that my children are sad. My kids don't know which leg to stand on. What they should believe. Why should their identity be removed? Why must they be punished in that way?' 'I don't want to engage in speculation and mudslinging,' said Joachim. 'I am telling the truth... I was given five days notice... I was given five days' notice of this. To tell my children that on New Year's their identity will be taken from them.' He added that in May, he was presented with a plan that his 'children's identity should be taken from them when each of them turned 25', to which he asked 'to be allowed to come back with my proposal'. But he said he was given just five days notice that the decision was to be accelerated, adding: 'I am so sorry for my children. I just demand the truth.' Prince Joachim (right back), 53, the youngest of Margrethe's two sons, said he was only given five days' notice that Nikolai (left), 23, Felix (second from left), 20, Henrik (far right), 13, and Athena (second from right), 10, will have prince or princess removed from their titles, and will no longer be able to use His or Her Royal Highness. Pictured with their grandmother Queen Margrethe (centre) and Princess Isabella (behind Princess Athena) Speaking at a function at the National Museum in Copenhagen on Wednesday night, pictured, Margrethe said: 'It is a consideration I have had for quite a long time and I think it will be good for them in their future. That is the reason' Prince Nikolai said that he is sad, shocked and confused after his royal title was stripped 'quickly'. Pictured modelling during the Dior Pre-Fall 2019 Men's Collection show on November 30, 2018 in Tokyo His ex-wife, Countess Alexandra, the mother of his two eldest children, added in a statement to Danish magazine Se og Hr: 'This comes like a bolt from the blue. The children feel ostracized. They cannot understand why their identity is being taken away from them.' Her spokesperson Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen told another news organisation that Joachim learned of his children's fate via an aide. Queen Margrethe spoke neither to her sons nor her grandchildren, it is claimed. Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix's mother says she's 'in shock' by move to strip them of their royal titles Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg - Prince Joachim's ex-wife and mother to Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix - said she is 'in shock' over Queen Margrethe II of Denmark's decision to strip her sons of their royal titles. Nikolai, 23, and Felix, 20, along with their younger siblings Prince Henri, 13, and Princess Athen, 10, from their father's second marriage, will all have their titles of prince and princess removed from January 1 2023, the palace announced yesterday. 'We are all confused by the decision. We are saddened and in shock,' Alexandra said in a statement from her press advisor Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen, reported Danish magazine Se og Hr. The statement continued: 'This comes like a bolt from the blue. The children feel ostracised. They cannot understand why their identity is being taken away from them.' Earlier this month, Alexandra attended Queen Margrethe's Golden Jubilee celebrations at the Danish Royal Theatre in Copenhagen. Prince Joachim married his second wife Princess Marie in 2008, and they later welcomed Prince Henrik and Princess Athena Advertisement 'The children have received the message that they are losing their titles, delivered by their father, just as Countess Alexandra was told by Prince Joachim,' the spokesperson added. Meanwhile, speaking about the decision last Wednesday, Queen Margrethe said: 'It is a consideration I have had for quite a long time and I think it will be good for them in their future. That is the reason.' And the Royal Household released another statement, saying: 'As the Queen stated yesterday, the decision has been a long time coming. 'We understand that there are many emotions at stake at the moment, but we hope that the Queen's wish to future-proof the Royal Household will be respected.' Prince Nikolai, a model, also spoke out last week, telling Ekstra Bladet: 'My whole family and I are of course very sad. We are, as my parents have also stated, in shock at this decision and at how quickly it has actually gone. 'I am very confused as to why it has to happen like this,' he told reporters from outside the Copenhagen apartment where he lives with his girlfriend. Countess Alexandra, Prince Joachim's ex-wife and mother to Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix, is also 'very sad' and 'shocked' about the decision. 'She can't believe why and why now, because there's no good reason,' Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen, press secretary to Countess Alexandra told CNN. 'They would lose their titles anyway when they get married one day. Her sons are young men so maybe they might get married in the near future so why shouldn't it wait until that day so that the titles would disappear on a happy day?' Under the agreement, Nikolai, Felix, Henrik, and Athena will be known as either His Excellency Count of Monpezat or Her Excellency Countess of Monpezat from January 1, 2023. However they will maintain their positions in the order of succession. They are currently seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth, but would move down if any of Crown Prince Frederick's children were to have children. Margrethe, who is the world's longest serving queen and celebrates her Golden Jubilee this year, is affectionately known as 'aunt Daisy' by European royals due to her close personal ties with many reigning monarchs. She is a first cousin of Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf and a second cousin of Norway's King Harald V. She enjoyed a close relationship with the Queen, a distant cousin, and the Duke of Edinburgh, and shared deeply personal tributes following their deaths. She was joined by her son Crown Prince Frederick at the Queen's funeral earlier this month. The Queen seemingly enjoys a close relationship with both sons and all eight of her grandchildren, and makes regular appearances with both families. However there is now said to be an 'ice-cold air' between the Queen and her grandchildren. Countess Alexandra's press secretary questioned why the change could not have waited until their wedding day, when her sons would 'lose their titles anyway'. Pictured, Alexandra Countess Of Frederiksborg The move is said to have driven a wedge between Margrethe and her four grandchildren. Pictured, the Queen (centre) with sons Joachim (left) and Crown Prince Frederick (right). Also pictured: Crown Prince Frederick's wife, Crown Princess Mary (right) and son Prince Christian (in his lap) and Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix (left) who will be affected by the change Prince Nikolai, from left, Princess Marie, Prince Joachim and Prince Felix arrive for the command performance at the Danish Royal Theatre to mark the 50th anniversary of Danish Queen Margrethe II's accession to the throne in Copenhagen, Saturday, September 10, 2022 Prince Nikolai of Denmark celebrated his 23rd birthday in August at home with his parents and siblings in Copenhagen. Pictured left with Prince Felxi, 20, Prince Henrick, 13 and Princess Athena, ten Nikolai with his stepmother Princess Marie, siblings, and father Prince Joachim, on the balcony of Amalienborg palace during the Danish Queen's 78th Birthday in April 2018 'There is ice-cold air between Queen Margrethe and her grandchildren after she decided that they will lose their titles as prince and princess from the New Year,' leading Danish publication Ekstra Bladet reported. 'The news, which has crushed both the four children and their parents, was not delivered by the queen herself. 'They have not been called to Amalienborg for a cold coke and an explanation as to why they must henceforth be addressed as counts and countesses. Not even that far.' Out of a title: The four grandchildren who will no longer be TRHs Nikolai of Denmark, 23: The Copenhagen Business School student and model regularly tops lists of the world's most eligible bachelors. He lives in Denmark but has jetted around the world to walk for designers in Paris and London. Nikolai has also appeared on the cover of Vogue Scandinavia. Felix of Denmark, 20: Following in his brother's footsteps, Prince Felix has also had success as a model and has starred in an advertising campaign for Georg Jensen. He had a short stint at the Royal Danish Military Academy but quit after two months because it 'wasn't for him'. Henrik, 13, and Athena, 10, of Denmark: The youngest of Prince Joachim's four children, Henrik and Athena are the product of his second marriage to Princess Marie. They live with their parents in Paris. Advertisement Queen Margrethe has a well-cushioned allowance, with the Danish Civil List granting her 800,813 a month, or 9.6 million for the year to run the royal household - including staff, properties and administration, according to Business Insider. Meanwhile, Celebrity Net Worth lists her net worth at around 37million. Around 183,750 per month is reportedly given to the Queen's children. Crown Prince Frederik receives the largest amount of this money, of which 10 per cent is given to his wife, Princess Mary. Many of the Danish Royal Family's properties are owned by the state, and run by the Agency for Palaces and Cultural Properties. This includes the main residence of Amalienborg, their spring home of Fredensborg palace, their summer house of Grasten Palace and the hunting lodge Eremitageslottet . The Danish Queen's personal properties include Marselisborg Castle, Chateau de Caix in France, and the royal hunting lodge in Jutland at Trend. Prince Joachim lives with his second wife Princess Marie in Paris, where he has been working as a Defense Attache at the Danish Embassy since September 2020 - but when he returns home to Denmark it is sometimes to the Schackenborg Castle in southern Jutland. The estate was the prince's private residence from 1993 to 2014, before he sold the property. But since Prince Joachim and Princess Marie are on the board of the Schackenborg Castle Foundation, they occasionally return to live there for short periods of time. In the summer of 2020, Prince Joachim suffered a stroke while holidaying in France with his family and had to be rushed into hospital for emergency brain surgery. Prince Joachim's eldest sons, Felix and Nikolai, are Margrethe's eldest grandsons and have embraced a life in the public eye. The 20-somethings, who both live in Denmark, both enrolled in the National Military Academy but dropped out before completing their studies. They have enjoyed flourishing careers as models, posing for several advert campaigns and on the cover of magazines. Both of Margrethe's grandsons turned to modelling in their late teens. Pictured with their grandmother in May 2021 Princess Marie with Prince Joachim, Prince Felix, Prince Nikolai, Princess Athena and Prince Henrick with Joachim's first wife's Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg in 2020 Nikolai caught international attention in 2018 when he walked in the Burberry show at London Fashion week, before a front row that included Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Michelle Dockery, Naomi Watts, Zendaya, and Idris Elba. He is signed to Scoop Models agency in Denmark and has been multiplying his modelling gigs. He sent royal fans into a frenzy in February when he graced the cover of Vogue Scandinavia. The 23-year-old oozed sophistication when appearing in the magazine and looked effortlessly stylish in a matching pink Dior jacket and trousers as he posed in front of a number of colourful flowers. When he is not modelling, Nikolai is studying Business Administration and Service Management at the In 2019, Prince Nikolai began his B education at Copenhagen Business School. Queen Margrethe and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark at the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Margrethe tested positive for Covid-19 only 24 hours after Queen Elizabeth II's funeral on Monday September 19 Queen Margrethe was pictured out and about for the first time on Monday after testing positive for Covid-19 last week. She attended a gala dinner at the Grand Hotel in Oslo after receiving the Nordic Association's Language Award Queen Margrethe of Denmark, 82, attended the 'reception of the century' at Buckingham Palace, which was hosted by King Charles and Camilla before Queen Elizabeth II's funeral Last year he was living in Paris as part of a school exchange, and could see his younger siblings and his dad more easily. At the end of last year, he started training at the Royal Danish Military Academy to become an Army Lieutenant, but in October it was announced that he'd quit after just two months because it 'wasn't for him'. Prince Felix chose to make his modelling debut for jeweller Georg Jensen, appearing in pictures and an advert promoting the new Reflect collection of necklaces, earrings and rings. The royal is further down the line of succession, pursuing his own career path rather than being a 'working royal' was expected choice for Felix even before his grandmother's announcement, and modelling is certainly a popular choice for minor royals across the globe. While they are growing to be their own person, Felix and Nikolai do attend royal events on occasion. They both looked very dapper as they attended the celebrations for their grandmother's golden jubilee with their parents in early September. British McDonald's customers are 'livid' after the fast food chain announced it would unveil adult Happy Meals in the US - but they won't be available in the UK. Announcing the news on Instagram last week, McDonald's confirmed it will release BigMac or 10-piece Chicken McNugget Happy Meals for adults complete with a 'toy' like collectables from fashion brands. The news sparked excitement that British shoppers might soon get their hands on the novelty release, however their hopes were dashed yesterday when McDonald's confirmed they will only be available in the US. Many burger fans took to Twitter to voice their dismay at the revelation with one person saying: 'Feel like pure s*** just want adult happy meals in the UK ' People are 'livid' to find out that McDonald's won't be selling adult Happy Meals in the UK after the fast food giant announced yesterday that the new adult Happy Meals will only be sold in the US Manchester Evening News had contacted McDonald's to see if the new menu update would cross the Atlantic, however a McDonald's spokesperson dashed hopes by saying: 'We have no plans to roll this out in the UK.' Many were not disappointed by the news with one person saying: 'If the UK doesn't release Adult Happy Meals like the US that'll be so s***.' Another wrote: 'I am livid that McDonald's aren't bringing adult happy meals to the UK, why are all promotions US based'. Someone else said: 'PLEASE DO THE ADULT HAPPY MEALS IN THE UK, I WAS GUTTED WHEN I FOUND OUT YOU WERE ONLY DOING IT IN AMERICA. I WANT AN ADULT HAPPY MEAL'. A McDonald's spokesperson dashed hopes by saying they 'have no plans' to roll this out in the UK Four collectables from streetwear brand Cactus Plant Flea Market will first be included in the Happy Meals Customers can choose between a Big Mac or 10 chicken nuggets, which come with fries, a drink and a toy Another wrote: 'I don't know whether to laugh or cry on the fact, that us lot in the UK, are not getting adult happy meals. Talk about neglect. Lmfao'. While another person wrote: 'no UK adult happy meals? I bet I'm not the only UK resident unhappy about this. From now on my big Mac fries and coke is an unhappy meal'. Announcing the news on Instagram last week, McDonald's confirmed what kind of items adults can expect to find in their boxes in the US. Many were not disappointed by the news with one person saying: 'If the UK doesn't release Adult Happy Meals like the US that'll be so s***' Customers can choose between a Big Mac or 10 chicken nuggets, which come with fries, a drink and a toy. Four collectables from streetwear brand Cactus Plant Flea Market will first be included in the Happy Meals. Tariq Hassan, McDonald's USA chief marketing and customer experience officer, said: 'We're taking one of the most nostalgic McDonald's experiences and literally repackaging it in a new way that's hyper-relevant for our adult fan. 'I can't wait to give fans a unique piece of art and culture as we dive headfirst into the dynamic world of Cactus Plant Flea Market together next week'. An interracial couple has said their daughter, who has albinism, has faced disgusting racial abuse due to the colour of her skin. Marwa Houma, 33, from Croydon, South London, who is white, shares daughter Julia-Marie with her civil partner Malcolm John, 60, who is of black Caribbean heritage. Julia-Marie, now 15 months, was born with blonde hair, blue eyes and fair skin, and doctors later diagnosed her with albinism, a condition affecting one in every 17,000 people. Marwa said strangers struggle to believe Malcom is their daughter's father and look at him like he has 'kidnapped' the baby. She added their little girl has been subject to horrific abuse because of her looks. Marwa Houma, 33, from Croydon, South London, who is white, shares daughter Julia-Marie with her civil partner Malcolm John, 60, who is of black Caribbean heritage Julia Marie, now 15 months, was born with blonde hair, blue eyes and fair skin, and doctors later diagnosed her with albinism, a condition affecting one in every 17,000 people 'Every time I take Julia outside, people don't look at me because I'm fair-skinned, but when they look at Malcolm with Julia, it's like "what's that man doing with that baby?",' she explained. 'People would stare at him as though he kidnapped the baby, and I felt for him, but he couldn't express it. 'As a parent, I need to be brave and fight for my daughter's future. Our fear is that Julia would get bullied about her glasses and condition. 'People need to know you don't need to be black to be racially abused. You can be white, have blonde hair and blues eyes, and still be abused for your skin colour.' She continued: 'We once had an incident at the hospital. She was six months old and crying, so I said, "I'm going to take her to the car and feed her and you can pick up the prescription". 'But the lady at the chemist wouldn't take Malcolm seriously. She said, "call the mother, so I can confirm her date of birth". She wouldn't believe this is the father. Marwa said her bubbly tot has faced vicious discrimination - particularly when she steps out with her loving father When Julia-Marie was born in June last year, she was stunned by her extremely pale skin tone and piercing blue eyes, which didn't match her parent's features Marwa found out her daughter had 'OCA1', meaning she could contract skin cancer if she's exposed to direct sun and needs to wear glasses 'He was fuming, and he had to come all the way to the car park and say, "could you come upstairs and confirm Julia's date of birth".' Marwa said her daughter had also been branded a 'white monkey' in a vile racist outburst, leading her to report a hate crime to police and fear future reprisals. What is albinism? People with albinism often have white or very light blonde hair, although some have brown or ginger hair. The reduced amount of melanin can also cause eye problems because melanin is involved in the development of the retina. The 2 main types of albinism are: Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) the most common type, affecting the skin, hair and eyes Ocular albinism (OA) a rarer type that mainly affects the eyes Albinism is usually obvious from a baby's appearance when they're born. Source: NHS Advertisement She added: 'I stopped taking Julia out completely. Enough of the intimidation.' Marwa, a stay-at-home mother, said she was surprised when she gave birth to Julia-Marie in June last year because her features were so different to hers and Malcolm's. She said: 'She was born completely white, like pale with blonde hair and blue eyes. I was expecting to have a mixed-race baby because her father is of black Caribbean heritage. 'Her dad just thought, "this is our baby". Maybe he was in denial, but he had her in his arms and loved her from day one.' Marwa said doctors and nurses at the hospital where Julia-Marie was born failed to spot that their daughter had albinism. She later slipped into post-natal depression. The baby's albinism was only spotted by her GP two months later, who explained the dangers it could pose to her health in the future. Marwa found out her daughter had 'OCA1', meaning she could contract skin cancer if she's exposed to direct sun and needs to wear glasses. Marwa explained: 'The GP told me Julia needs to be fully protected from the sun otherwise she'll get skin cancer, and she would need glasses as her vision will never be 100 per cent and there is no cure for albinism. 'She also can't open her eyes outside because of the bright light, she has photophobia [a fear of the light]. This is where my battle started.' Marwa said she'd spent most of this year's unseasonably hot summer indoors with Julia-Marie - 'paranoid' that the strong rays might harm her daughter Albinism affects the production of melanin, which determines someone's hair, eye and skin colour and makes those with the condition particularly susceptible to sunlight Albinism affects the production of melanin, which determines someone's hair, eye and skin colour and makes those with the condition particularly susceptible to sunlight. Marwa spent most of this year's unseasonably hot summer indoors with Julia-Marie, 'paranoid' that the strong rays might harm her daughter. On the occasions they did step out as a family, Marwa soon noticed how Malcolm and Julia-Marie became targets for discrimination due to their differences. Despite the struggles Julia-Marie has faced in her early years, she has since gone on to have a successful baby modelling career, attracting fans from around the world. Marwa now wants more people to be aware of the medical truths surrounding albinism - to crack down on the abuse that many people face with the condition each day. She said: 'Quite often these subjects are swept under the carpet and people don't often talk about it. This is a lack of knowledge. 'I knew very little about it, hence why I struggled during my postnatal period. As a parent, we want to raise awareness about everything we've learnt since Julia was born. 'People need to understand what albinism is and the origin of the disorder. It's not contagious and it's not a disability. 'In 2022, it's sad to say, there's still discrimination, and not only white people can be racist. There's racism in every single race. We need to stand for our Julia.' The Tunnel No. 4 at North Korea's only known nuclear test site Punggye-ri is blown up on May 24, 2018, during the dismantlement of the site in this press pool photo. Yonhap Recent satellite imagery show continued activity at North Korea's main nuclear test facility in Punggye-ri that may suggest preparations for future tests, a U.S. monitor said Monday. The image, taken Sept. 29, shows possible work to clear the area in front of a dismantled underground tunnel, which could allow additional nuclear tests in the future, according to Beyond Parallel, a project of the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank. "The construction of the access road to Tunnel No. 4 (also known as the West Portal) has resumed, and the road is now cleared to the area directly in front of the collapsed portal," it said. North Korea had dismantled the Punggye-ri nuclear test site in 2018 as a demonstration of its willingness to denuclearize. She earlier this year won substantial damages against the BBC's false allegations of an affair with King Charles. And now Tiggy Pettifer - better known as Tiggy Legge-Bourke - is offering to knit socks as part of an auction for one of the charities the new monarch is patron of. Princes William and Harry's old nanny, 57, will grant the cosy, handmade items to the highest bidder in an event organised by the Edinburgh-based Atlantic Salmon Trust. The cash raised will be used for research into the reasons why the 'king of fish' are disappearing from many of the country's rivers. Tiggy has remained close to the royal family since she was nanny to the Duke of Cambridge and Duke of Sussex as children. Prince Harry is godfather to Tiggy's son Fred. And the Duke and Duchess of Sussex reportedly returned the favour by asking Tiggy to be godmother to their son, Archie, at his Windsor christening in 2019. Tiggy Legge-Bourke (pictured this July) is offering to knit socks as part of an auction for a charity for which King Charles is patron Tiggy - who is an advanced fly fishing instructor - is understood to be reprising the popular auction after its 'runaway success' last year, according to the trust The appeal, as promoted on the charity's website, promises a 'bespoke pair of his and hers wading socks' as well as a beanie hat - and it looks like someone has already bid 500 for the prize. Tiggy - who is an advanced fly fishing instructor - is understood to be reprising the popular auction after its 'runaway success' last year, according to the trust. 'A most coveted item,' it continued. 'Get your bids in fast as in previous years these socks sold for over 1,000 for one pair alone!' Keen fisher Charles is patron of the Atlantic Salmon Trust, which wrote to river owners throughout the UK and Ireland asking for donations for its online auction. It closes on November 17. Tiggy (pictured with Prince Harry in 1995) - who is an advanced fly fishing instructor - is understood to be reprising the popular auction after its 'runaway success' last year, according to the trust Pettifer - better known as Tiggy Legge-Bourke - was famously Harry and William's long-term nanny in their formative years. A constant by the princes' side while they were growing up, Pettifer has remained close to both the royals over the years, and met Meghan before they married. The Duke of Sussex is godfather to her son Tom Pettifer, who was pictured at the royal wedding. Earlier this year it was revealed that the BBC is paying damages to the ex-nanny over false claims made about her to obtain a 1995 Princess Diana interview. In July Earl Spencer again reiterated his call for criminal charges over the Princess Diana Panorama scandal - as the BBC issued a grovelling apology over the 'shocking' way Martin Bashir obtained the notorious interview. Corporation boss Tim Davie pledged to never show the programme again as a defamation case launched by Mrs Legge-Bourke over smears made by the rogue reporter came to a close. The broadcaster agreed to pay her substantial damages in response to 'fabricated' allegations that she'd had an affair with the Prince of Wales while working as Charles' personal assistant in 1995. Mr Bashir is also said to have tricked Diana into believing the nanny had become pregnant by Charles by showing her a faked abortion 'receipt'. Tiggy (pictured with Prince William, Prince Harry, bodyguard Tony Parker and King Charles III in 1993) earlier this year won substantial damages against the BBC's false allegations of an affair with the King The princess' brother has long called for criminal charges to be brought, but Scotland Yard said it would not launch an investigation after assessing Lord Dyson's report into the documentary. Earlier this year, he launched a fresh call, as he said: 'While I'm delighted to see that another innocent victim of this appalling scandal is being vindicated, it's amazing to me that no criminal charges have been levelled against those responsible, yet.' Ms Legge-Bourke's solicitor Louise Prince had earlier told the court that the allegations caused 'serious personal consequences for all concerned'. The BBC apology to Tiggy Legge-Bourke in full 'Following publication of the Dyson Report last year we have been working with those who suffered as a result of the deceitful tactics used by the BBC in pursuit of its interview with Diana, Princess of Wales for the Panorama programme in 1995, including the matters that were mentioned in court today in respect of Miss Tiggy Legge-Bourke, now Mrs Alexandra Pettifer. 'The BBC has agreed to pay substantial damages to Mrs Pettifer and I would like to take this opportunity to apologise publicly to her, to the Prince of Wales, and to the Dukes of Cambridge and Sussex, for the way in which Princess Diana was deceived and the subsequent impact on all their lives. 'It is a matter of great regret that the BBC did not get to the facts in the immediate aftermath of the programme when there were warning signs that the interview might have been obtained improperly. Instead, as the Duke of Cambridge himself put it, the BBC failed to ask the tough questions. 'Had we done our job properly Princess Diana would have known the truth during her lifetime. We let her, the royal family and our audiences down. 'Now we know about the shocking way that the interview was obtained I have decided that the BBC will never show the programme again; nor will we licence it in whole or part to other broadcasters. 'It does of course remain part of the historical record and there may be occasions in the future when it will be justified for the BBC to use short extracts for journalistic purposes, but these will be few and far between and will need to be agreed at executive committee level and set in the full context of what we now know about the way the interview was obtained. I would urge others to exercise similar restraint.' Advertisement Ms Prince said that Ms Legge-Bourke had not known the source of the allegations over the last 25 years, but that it was now likely that the 'false and malicious allegations arose as a result and in the context of BBC Panorama's efforts to procure an exclusive interview with Diana, Princess of Wales'. The corporation's director-general Mr Davie directed a public apology to Charles, William and Harry, as well as Miss Legge-Bourke herself 'for the way in which Princess Diana was deceived and the subsequent impact on all their lives'. He agreed with comments previously made by the then-Duke of Cambridge that the BBC 'failed to ask the tough questions' and admitted it was 'a matter of great regret' that bosses 'did not get to the facts'. Mr Davie pledged to never show the Panorama programme again, or provide the rights to other broadcasters, adding: 'Had we done our job properly Princess Diana would have known the truth during her lifetime. 'We let her, the royal family and our audiences down.' However Mr Davie added that 'there may be occasions in the future when it will be justified for the BBC to use short extracts'. In a statement on the independent report last year, the Met Police announced it was 'not appropriate to begin a criminal investigation into allegations of unlawful activity in connection with a documentary broadcast in 1995'. 'Following the publication of Lord Dyson's report in May, specialist detectives assessed its contents and looked carefully at the law - once again obtaining independent legal advice from Treasury Counsel as well as consulting the Crown Prosecution Service,' the force said. 'As a result, the MPS has not identified evidence of activity that constituted a criminal offence and will therefore be taking no further action.' Speaking after successfully settling her defamation claim, the former nanny said: 'I am disappointed that it needed legal action for the BBC to recognise the serious harm I have been subjected to. 'Sadly, I am one of many people whose lives have been scarred by the deceitful way in which the BBC Panorama was made and the BBC's subsequent failure to properly investigate the making of the programme. 'The distress caused to the royal family is a source of great upset to me. 'I know first-hand how much they were affected at the time, and how the programme and the false narrative it created have haunted the family in the years since. 'Especially because, still today, so much about the making of the programme is yet to be adequately explained.' Jonathan Scherbel-Ball of lawyers 5RB on behalf of the BBC told the court: 'The BBC accepts that the allegations were wholly baseless, should never have been made, and that the BBC did not, at the time, adequately investigate serious concerns over the circumstances in which the BBC secured the Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales... 'The BBC is extremely sorry for the serious and prolonged harm caused to (Mrs Pettifer) and the historical investigative shortcoming. The corporation's director-general Mr Davie directed a public apology to Charles, William and Harry, as well as Ms Legge-Bourke (pictured earlier this year) herself 'for the way in which Princess Diana was deceived and the subsequent impact on all their lives' 'It is pleased that the parties have been able to resolve these issues amicably by joining in this statement in open court and by the BBC paying her substantial compensation and legal costs.' Former BBC Panorama producer Mark Killick said: 'It's good news that this matter has finally been resolved, but the length of time it has taken for the BBC to apologise and pay damages is yet more proof that the BBC is dragging its feet when confronting the past. 'The BBC remains extremely reluctant to confront any issue that was not specifically covered by Lord Dyson, even if the truth is widely known, and its attitude is hardly likely to give confidence to whistle-blowers who today may want to speak truth to power. 'Tim Davie, the current BBC director-general, deserves credit for the steps he has taken, but whether the BBC has done enough to prevent a scandal like this from happening again remains to be seen.' Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark appeared carefree as he took part in a 'sailing competition in St Tropez' days after it emerged his nieces and nephews were stripped of their titles. A bitter royal row within the Danish Royal Household has unfolded in recent days after Margrethe, 82, announced on Wednesday that she would be removing princely titles from Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13, and Princess Athena, 10. As of January 1 2023, they will become Counts and Countesses, and will be known as Their Excellencies, rather than His or Her Royal Highness. Days ago, Prince Joachim admitted his relationship with his brother Crown Prince Frederik is 'complicated' - and that he hadn't heard from his mother Queen Margrethe II after she stripped his children of their royal titles. However it has now emerged Prince Frederik has spent the last week in France, where he and friends defended the prestigious BMW Trophy, which they also won in 2021. Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark jetted off to take part in a 'sailing competition in St Tropez' last week after his nieces and nephews were stripped of their titles, according to reports Pictured together: Danish Crown Prince Frederik and Princess Mary, Princess Marie and Prince Joachim of Denmark pose at the Paris town hall in October 2019 Her&Nu reported the royal arrived in the exclusive St. Tropez last weekend to take part in the Les Voiles Saint Tropez race with the TP52 boat Nanoq. In a photograph from the event which was taken on Friday, the royal can be seen posing on a boat topless in the sunshine. The Crown Prince appeared to recline on the boat as he chatted with friends during his seven day visit to the country last week. The news comes after Frederik's brother Joachim and his second wife Marie admitted their relationship is 'complicated'. Prince Joachim and Princess Marie of Denmark (pictured) have admitted their relationship with Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary is 'complicated' - and that they still haven't heard from Margrethe II after she stripped four of her grandchildren of their royal titles A bitter royal row within the household has unfolded in recent days after Queen Margrethe, 82, announced she would be removing princely titles from Joachim's children, Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13, and Princess Athena, 10. Pictured, Marie, Joachim, Mary and Frederik on 11 September 2022 in Denmark As of January 1, Prince Nikolai, 23, Prince Felix, 20, Prince Henrik, 13, and Princess Athena, 10, will become Counts and Countesses, and will be known as Their Excellencies, it was announced on Wednesday. Pictured, the children with Prince Joachim and Princess Marie on September 11, 2022 Speaking to B.T. they also said Queen Margrethe has 'unfortunately not' tried to speak to them, with Joachim adding: 'Its also family. Or whatever we want to call it.' During the interview, B.T reported that a French woman approached the royal couple and told them their children will always be princes and princesses to her, apparently leaving Marie and Joachim in tears. Elsewhere, Marie, the mother of Joachim's two youngest children, told the Danish news outlet that her daughter Athena is being bullied at school after the decision was publicly announced earlier this week. 'They come and say (to Athena): Is it you who is no longer a princess?,' she said, adding that her children were put under the public spotlight and so she feels the need to defend them. Last week, Joachim hit out at his mother Margrethe's decision, saying it 'punished' his children, as well as claiming he had only been told the news five days before it was made public - despite the Royal Household insisting the move 'has been a long time coming'. Front: Queen Margrethe, Middle Row (left to right): Prince Vincent, Princess Josephine, Princess Athena, Prince Henrik. Back row (left to right): Princess Benedikte, Princess Isabella, Crown Princess Mary, Crown Prince Frederik, Prince Christian, Prince Joachim, Princess Marie, Prince Felix and Prince Nikolai in a portrait celebrating Queen Margrethe's Golden Jubilee The Danish Royal Family tree. Prince Joachim's children Nikolai, 23, Felix, 20, Henrik, 13, and Athena, 10, will all be losing their titles on January 1 2023 Meanwhile, Princess Mary came out in public support of her mother-in-law's move while speaking in an interview with Ekstra Bladet in Copenhagen on Friday, saying that while 'change can be extremely difficult and can really hurt... this does not mean that the decision is not the right one'. The oldest son of Australian-born Princess Mary, 50, and Frederik is Prince Christian, 16, who is second-in-line to the throne. Frederick and Mary's four children - Prince Christian, 16, Princess Isabella, 15, and twins Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent, 11 - remain unaffected by the monarch's decision as they are direct descendants of the future King. However Princess Mary suggested that might not always be the case, saying they will 'also look at [their] children's titles when the time comes'. Speaking about the monarch's intention to slim down the Danish royal family, Joachim said: 'The reality must still be: whether you modernize or slim down, it must be done in a proper way. It's about children. Orderliness and children. It is a very heavy matter.' Commenting on Princess Mary's point that her children may too lose titles in the future, Joachim said: 'I don't know how they feel if they have to think it through. Now is preparation time. We didn't have that.' Last week, commenting on his children's reaction to the move to B.T., Joachim said his children 'don't know which leg to stand on as their identity is removed' - and questioned 'why must they be punished in that way?'. Prince Joachim of Denmark (pictured) has once again hit out at his mother Queen Margrethe II's decision to strip his four children of their royal titles Speaking in Copenhagen (pictured) Crown Princess Mary of Denmark defended her mother-in-law Queen Margrethe's decision to strip four of her grandchildren of their royal titles, and suggested her own children's positions might not be secure Australian-born Princess Mary, 50, is the wife of Crown Prince Frederick of Denmark, who is Queen Margrethe II's eldest son and heir. Their eldest son, Prince Christian, 16, is second-in-line to the throne behind his father Frederick. Pictured, Mary and Frederick with their children (from left) Isabella, Josephine, Christian and Vincent earlier this month The prince, who is Margrethe's youngest son, said: 'I can say that my children are sad. My kids don't know which leg to stand on. What they should believe. Why should their identity be removed? Why must they be punished in that way?' 'I don't want to engage in speculation and mudslinging,' said Joachim. 'I am telling the truth... I was given five days notice... I was given five days' notice of this. To tell my children that on New Year's their identity will be taken from them.' He added that in May, he was presented with a plan that his 'children's identity should be taken from them when each of them turned 25', to which he asked 'to be allowed to come back with my proposal'. But he said he was given just five days notice that the decision was to be accelerated, adding: 'I am so sorry for my children. I just demand the truth.' Prince Joachim (right back), 53, the youngest of Margrethe's two sons, said he was only given five days' notice that Nikolai (left), 23, Felix (second from left), 20, Henrik (far right), 13, and Athena (second from right), 10, will have prince or princess removed from their titles, and will no longer be able to use His or Her Royal Highness. Pictured with their grandmother Queen Margrethe (centre) and Princess Isabella (behind Princess Athena) Speaking at a function at the National Museum in Copenhagen on Wednesday night, pictured, Margrethe said: 'It is a consideration I have had for quite a long time and I think it will be good for them in their future. That is the reason' Prince Nikolai said that he is sad, shocked and confused after his royal title was stripped 'quickly'. Pictured modelling during the Dior Pre-Fall 2019 Men's Collection show on November 30, 2018 in Tokyo His ex-wife, Countess Alexandra, the mother of his two eldest children, added in a statement to Danish magazine Se og Hr: 'This comes like a bolt from the blue. The children feel ostracized. They cannot understand why their identity is being taken away from them.' Her spokesperson Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen told another news organisation that Joachim learned of his children's fate via an aide. Queen Margrethe spoke neither to her sons nor her grandchildren, it is claimed. Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix's mother says she's 'in shock' by move to strip them of their royal titles Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg - Prince Joachim's ex-wife and mother to Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix - said she is 'in shock' over Queen Margrethe II of Denmark's decision to strip her sons of their royal titles. Nikolai, 23, and Felix, 20, along with their younger siblings Prince Henri, 13, and Princess Athen, 10, from their father's second marriage, will all have their titles of prince and princess removed from January 1 2023, the palace announced yesterday. 'We are all confused by the decision. We are saddened and in shock,' Alexandra said in a statement from her press advisor Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen, reported Danish magazine Se og Hr. The statement continued: 'This comes like a bolt from the blue. The children feel ostracised. They cannot understand why their identity is being taken away from them.' Earlier this month, Alexandra attended Queen Margrethe's Golden Jubilee celebrations at the Danish Royal Theatre in Copenhagen. Prince Joachim married his second wife Princess Marie in 2008, and they later welcomed Prince Henrik and Princess Athena Advertisement 'The children have received the message that they are losing their titles, delivered by their father, just as Countess Alexandra was told by Prince Joachim,' the spokesperson added. Meanwhile, speaking about the decision last Wednesday, Queen Margrethe said: 'It is a consideration I have had for quite a long time and I think it will be good for them in their future. That is the reason.' And the Royal Household released another statement, saying: 'As the Queen stated yesterday, the decision has been a long time coming. 'We understand that there are many emotions at stake at the moment, but we hope that the Queen's wish to future-proof the Royal Household will be respected.' Prince Nikolai, a model, also spoke out last week, telling Ekstra Bladet: 'My whole family and I are of course very sad. We are, as my parents have also stated, in shock at this decision and at how quickly it has actually gone. 'I am very confused as to why it has to happen like this,' he told reporters from outside the Copenhagen apartment where he lives with his girlfriend. Countess Alexandra, Prince Joachim's ex-wife and mother to Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix, is also 'very sad' and 'shocked' about the decision. 'She can't believe why and why now, because there's no good reason,' Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen, press secretary to Countess Alexandra told CNN. 'They would lose their titles anyway when they get married one day. Her sons are young men so maybe they might get married in the near future so why shouldn't it wait until that day so that the titles would disappear on a happy day?' Under the agreement, Nikolai, Felix, Henrik, and Athena will be known as either His Excellency Count of Monpezat or Her Excellency Countess of Monpezat from January 1, 2023. However they will maintain their positions in the order of succession. They are currently seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth, but would move down if any of Crown Prince Frederick's children were to have children. Margrethe, who is the world's longest serving queen and celebrates her Golden Jubilee this year, is affectionately known as 'aunt Daisy' by European royals due to her close personal ties with many reigning monarchs. She is a first cousin of Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf and a second cousin of Norway's King Harald V. She enjoyed a close relationship with the Queen, a distant cousin, and the Duke of Edinburgh, and shared deeply personal tributes following their deaths. She was joined by her son Crown Prince Frederick at the Queen's funeral earlier this month. The Queen seemingly enjoys a close relationship with both sons and all eight of her grandchildren, and makes regular appearances with both families. However there is now said to be an 'ice-cold air' between the Queen and her grandchildren. Countess Alexandra's press secretary questioned why the change could not have waited until their wedding day, when her sons would 'lose their titles anyway'. Pictured, Alexandra Countess Of Frederiksborg The move is said to have driven a wedge between Margrethe and her four grandchildren. Pictured, the Queen (centre) with sons Joachim (left) and Crown Prince Frederick (right). Also pictured: Crown Prince Frederick's wife, Crown Princess Mary (right) and son Prince Christian (in his lap) and Prince Nikolai and Prince Felix (left) who will be affected by the change Prince Nikolai, from left, Princess Marie, Prince Joachim and Prince Felix arrive for the command performance at the Danish Royal Theatre to mark the 50th anniversary of Danish Queen Margrethe II's accession to the throne in Copenhagen, Saturday, September 10, 2022 Prince Nikolai of Denmark celebrated his 23rd birthday in August at home with his parents and siblings in Copenhagen. Pictured left with Prince Felxi, 20, Prince Henrick, 13 and Princess Athena, ten Nikolai with his stepmother Princess Marie, siblings, and father Prince Joachim, on the balcony of Amalienborg palace during the Danish Queen's 78th Birthday in April 2018 'There is ice-cold air between Queen Margrethe and her grandchildren after she decided that they will lose their titles as prince and princess from the New Year,' leading Danish publication Ekstra Bladet reported. 'The news, which has crushed both the four children and their parents, was not delivered by the queen herself. 'They have not been called to Amalienborg for a cold coke and an explanation as to why they must henceforth be addressed as counts and countesses. Not even that far.' Out of a title: The four grandchildren who will no longer be TRHs Nikolai of Denmark, 23: The Copenhagen Business School student and model regularly tops lists of the world's most eligible bachelors. He lives in Denmark but has jetted around the world to walk for designers in Paris and London. Nikolai has also appeared on the cover of Vogue Scandinavia. Felix of Denmark, 20: Following in his brother's footsteps, Prince Felix has also had success as a model and has starred in an advertising campaign for Georg Jensen. He had a short stint at the Royal Danish Military Academy but quit after two months because it 'wasn't for him'. Henrik, 13, and Athena, 10, of Denmark: The youngest of Prince Joachim's four children, Henrik and Athena are the product of his second marriage to Princess Marie. They live with their parents in Paris. Advertisement Queen Margrethe has a well-cushioned allowance, with the Danish Civil List granting her 800,813 a month, or 9.6 million for the year to run the royal household - including staff, properties and administration, according to Business Insider. Meanwhile, Celebrity Net Worth lists her net worth at around 37million. Around 183,750 per month is reportedly given to the Queen's children. Crown Prince Frederik receives the largest amount of this money, of which 10 per cent is given to his wife, Princess Mary. Many of the Danish Royal Family's properties are owned by the state, and run by the Agency for Palaces and Cultural Properties. This includes the main residence of Amalienborg, their spring home of Fredensborg palace, their summer house of Grasten Palace and the hunting lodge Eremitageslottet . The Danish Queen's personal properties include Marselisborg Castle, Chateau de Caix in France, and the royal hunting lodge in Jutland at Trend. Prince Joachim lives with his second wife Princess Marie in Paris, where he has been working as a Defense Attache at the Danish Embassy since September 2020 - but when he returns home to Denmark it is sometimes to the Schackenborg Castle in southern Jutland. The estate was the prince's private residence from 1993 to 2014, before he sold the property. But since Prince Joachim and Princess Marie are on the board of the Schackenborg Castle Foundation, they occasionally return to live there for short periods of time. In the summer of 2020, Prince Joachim suffered a stroke while holidaying in France with his family and had to be rushed into hospital for emergency brain surgery. Prince Joachim's eldest sons, Felix and Nikolai, are Margrethe's eldest grandsons and have embraced a life in the public eye. The 20-somethings, who both live in Denmark, both enrolled in the National Military Academy but dropped out before completing their studies. They have enjoyed flourishing careers as models, posing for several advert campaigns and on the cover of magazines. Both of Margrethe's grandsons turned to modelling in their late teens. Pictured with their grandmother in May 2021 Princess Marie with Prince Joachim, Prince Felix, Prince Nikolai, Princess Athena and Prince Henrick with Joachim's first wife's Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg in 2020 Nikolai caught international attention in 2018 when he walked in the Burberry show at London Fashion week, before a front row that included Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Michelle Dockery, Naomi Watts, Zendaya, and Idris Elba. He is signed to Scoop Models agency in Denmark and has been multiplying his modelling gigs. He sent royal fans into a frenzy in February when he graced the cover of Vogue Scandinavia. The 23-year-old oozed sophistication when appearing in the magazine and looked effortlessly stylish in a matching pink Dior jacket and trousers as he posed in front of a number of colourful flowers. When he is not modelling, Nikolai is studying Business Administration and Service Management at the In 2019, Prince Nikolai began his B education at Copenhagen Business School. Queen Margrethe and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark at the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Margrethe tested positive for Covid-19 only 24 hours after Queen Elizabeth II's funeral on Monday September 19 Queen Margrethe was pictured out and about for the first time on Monday after testing positive for Covid-19 last week. She attended a gala dinner at the Grand Hotel in Oslo after receiving the Nordic Association's Language Award Queen Margrethe of Denmark, 82, attended the 'reception of the century' at Buckingham Palace, which was hosted by King Charles and Camilla before Queen Elizabeth II's funeral Last year he was living in Paris as part of a school exchange, and could see his younger siblings and his dad more easily. At the end of last year, he started training at the Royal Danish Military Academy to become an Army Lieutenant, but in October it was announced that he'd quit after just two months because it 'wasn't for him'. Prince Felix chose to make his modelling debut for jeweller Georg Jensen, appearing in pictures and an advert promoting the new Reflect collection of necklaces, earrings and rings. The royal is further down the line of succession, pursuing his own career path rather than being a 'working royal' was expected choice for Felix even before his grandmother's announcement, and modelling is certainly a popular choice for minor royals across the globe. While they are growing to be their own person, Felix and Nikolai do attend royal events on occasion. They both looked very dapper as they attended the celebrations for their grandmother's golden jubilee with their parents in early September. A brand new conservative dating app, which was created by the sister of Donald Trump's ex-press secretary Kayleigh McEnany and was funded by billionaire Peter Thiel, is being mercilessly mocked on Twitter - after screenshots of some of the bizarre prompts that are given to those creating profiles were shared online. Ryann McEnany, 34, from Tampa, Florida, designed the new 'invite-only' platform, called The Right Stuff, in an attempt to help 'young conservatives' find 'people that see the world the right way,' after she said she noticed that other dating apps had 'gone woke.' However, many social media users are now making fun of the new dating service, which launched on Friday, after it was revealed that the app asked its users to share their thoughts on the January 6 Capitol riots in their profiles. A brand new conservative dating app, which was created by the sister of Donald Trump's ex-press secretary and was funded by billionaire Peter Thiel, is being mocked on Twitter Kayleigh McEnany's sister Ryann McEnany, 34, designed the new platform, called The Right Stuff, in an attempt to help 'young conservatives' find 'people that see the world the right way' Many online users are now making fun of the new dating service after it was revealed that the app asked its users to share their thoughts on the January 6 Capitol riots in their profiles According to New York Magazine writer Shawn McCreesh, while signing up, there is a series of different questions that you can pick from to put on your profile. And while some are normal getting-to-know-you type prompts, like, 'A shower thought I recently had...' and, 'Biggest risk I've ever taken...' others have left the web stunned. According to New York Magazine writer Shawn McCreesh , while signing up, there is a series of different questions that you can pick from to put on your profile 'January 6th was...' read one of the prompts, referring to the day a group of former President Trump's supporters stormed the Capital building on January 6, while another said, 'Favorite liberal lie...' Each question contained a space to put your response, which has a 200-character limit and will be featured on your dating profile. McCreesh shared some grabs of the prompts to his Twitter account - which he said he obtained from 'a friend' - and they quickly went viral, gaining hundreds of retweets and thousands of likes. Many people replied and suggested other joking things that the app should have included, like, 'I testicle tan _____ times a week,' and, 'I have _____ MAGA flags in my yard.' 'Probably best to make sure you and your partner are on the same page here,' said someone else. Another person claimed the app was 'going to fail because if there's no "libs" to attack and argue with, they'll get bored in a month.' 'The whole point of being a right-wing Trump supporter is to annoy and argue with people. They don't actually want to meet and date people who share their supposed viewpoints,' agreed a different user. 'January 6th was...' read one of the prompts, referring to the day a group of Trump's supporters stormed the Capital building on January 6, while another said, 'Favorite liberal lie...' McCreesh shared some grabs of the prompts to his Twitter account and they quickly went viral. Many people replied and suggested other joking things that the app should have Another person claimed the app was 'going to fail because if there's no "libs" to attack and argue with, they'll get bored in a month' A different user called it a 'terrible idea' and said it will have '95 per cent undesirable men' on it Others even joked that the FBI is going to use The Right Stuff to catch people who were involved in the Capitol riots Others even joked that the FBI is going to use The Right Stuff to catch people who were involved in the Capitol riots. 'Never mind conservatives. Where's the dating app for lonely liberals?' asked someone else. A different user called it a 'terrible idea' and said it will have '95 per cent undesirable men' on it. 'Recording these dates might be an interesting reality show,' suggested someone else. 'Nothing says morally righteous conservative Christian like pairing off based on shared hatred of things,' read another tweet. A promotional video for the app has also gained attention online; it showed a series of young, conservative women sharing the things that they're 'looking for in the guys they date.' 'Someone who wants to have kids,' said one of the ladies, while another answered, 'Someone who loves his family. One woman even said that she was looking for a man with an 'alpha male vibe.' In the clip, someone from behind the camera then asked the women why they wanted to date a conservative man. 'For me, at least I know we're going to start off with some shared values,' replied one of the women. The app shared a promotional video, which showed a series of young, conservative women sharing the things that they're 'looking for in the guys they date,' including an 'alpha male vibe' In the clip, someone then asked the women why they wanted to date a conservative man. 'The conservative men I've dated at least know how to treat me like a woman,' said one woman 'I like that they understand their role in the relationship as a man,' said another, while a third stated, 'In my personal experience, conservative guys have better manners' 'The conservative men I've dated at least know how to treat me like a woman,' said another, while a third stated, 'In my personal experience, conservative guys have better manners.' 'I like that they understand their role in the relationship as a man,' replied a different woman. 'I prefer my men to be masculine,' said another. And when asked about the biggest red flag that a partner could have, they all agreed it was being 'a democrat.' Ryann first announced the app back in August, explaining at the time that only 'ladies' and 'gentlemen' who are determined to 'get back to the right way of dating' like her will be welcome to use The Right Stuff. While the app is free to use, it offers a premium subscription with extra perks for $9.99 a month - however, upgrading to premium will only cost extra for men. 'For my ladies, you'll never have to pay because we all get premium subscriptions for simply inviting a couple friends,' Ryann said in a promotional video. 'Gentlemen, if you want access to premium, that's on you. By the way, those are the only two options: ladies and gentlemen.' Ryann explained that the app is designed to encourage people to 'put their best foot forward.' Ryann first announced the app in August, explaining that only 'ladies' and 'gentlemen' who are determined to 'get back to the right way of dating' like her will be welcome While the app, which is 'invite only' is free to use, it offers a premium subscription with extra perks for $9.99 a month - however, upgrading to premium will only cost extra for men The app is being funded by former Trump staffers John McEntee and Daniel Huff, as well as PayPal billionaire founder Peter Thiel (pictured) She said you start off by 'building your perfect profile - no pronouns necessary.' 'Our prompts give you the opportunity to let people know various sides of you,' she added. 'Remember, be authentic and creative.' Users have the ability to scroll through the profiles of people in their area - or they can adjust the settings to see people in other locations too. You hit the like button on people you may be interested in, and you can see everyone who has liked your profile. 'If you like them back, you can start chatting with them. It's that simple,' Ryann shared. You can then create the 'ideal date' by choosing the time and place and where you'd like to go, and share it to your profile to see if anyone wants to join you. 'You can either keep your options open and post it for everyone to see, or, just post it to the people you've liked,' Ryann continued. 'This concept is all about getting you out there, and getting you on dates.' Ryann concluded that The Right Stuff is 'all about getting into the right dating pool with people who share the same values and beliefs as you.' 'We're sorry that you had to endure years of bad dates and wasted time with people that don't see the world our way - the right way,' she said. Ryann explained that the app is designed to encourage people to 'put their best foot forward.' She explained: 'Our prompts give you the opportunity to let people know various sides of you' You hit the like button on people you're interested in, and you can see who who has liked you. You can then chat with them, or create an 'ideal date' and share it to your profile Ryann (seen with her sister) concluded that The Right Stuff is 'all about getting into the right dating pool with people who share the same values and beliefs as you' 'We're sorry that you had to endure years of bad dates and wasted time with people that don't see the world our way - the right way,' she said. She is seen with former President Trump 'If you're a young conservative looking to amp up your dating life, go to JoinRightStuff.com. We need to get back to the right way of dating.' Ryann, who graduated from the University of Florida in 2017 with a degree in Telecommunications and got her Masters one year later in Science and Sport Management, interned in the White House's office of digital strategy in 2018. According to Reuters, she also worked as the social media manager for Trump's 2020 re-election campaign. Ryann often shares her support for the former president to her social media accounts. She now has a job in digital marketing and brand communications at America First Policy Institute, per her LinkedIn. Her sister, Kayleigh, served as Trump's press secretary during his presidential re-election campaign from 2019 to 2020, and for a good part of the last year of his presidency - from April 2020 to January 2021. She also worked as his senior advisor from October 2020 to January 2021, and she currently serves as an on-air contributor for Fox News. The app is being funded by former Trump staffers John McEntee and Daniel Huff, as well as PayPal billionaire founder Thiel. 'What we're doing has really not been done before. No one has built a high quality, properly funded app with a dedicated team,' Huff told The Hill while discussing the platform in July. 'It's an important, underserved market. Liberals own the education, media corporations, and we can't let them control our personal relationships.' 'Quit swiping, scrolling, and trolling the wrong people,' The Right Stuff's website reads. 'There are people out there just like you' It added: 'Connect with people who arent offended by everything. Get back to normal, view profiles without pronouns. If you're single and not on this app, you ain't conservative!' He told the outlet that while the app is designed for heterosexual couples, the team is looking to expand to same-sex relationships 'down the road.' 'Quit swiping, scrolling, and trolling the wrong people,' The Right Stuff's website reads. 'There are people out there just like you. The website also states: 'The Right Stuff was created for conservatives to connect in authentic and meaningful ways. Other dating apps have gone woke. We bring people together with shared values and similar passions.' Creator Ryann is pictured with Trump 'The Right Stuff was created for conservatives to connect in authentic and meaningful ways. Other dating apps have gone woke. We bring people together with shared values and similar passions. 'Connect with people who arent offended by everything. Get back to normal, view profiles without pronouns. If you're single and not on this app, you ain't conservative!' In recent years, it has appeared that Thiel is looking to carve out his own influence within the Republican Party. In 2016, he donated $1.5 million to pro-Trump groups and even addressed the Republican National Convention. The German-born investor also served on Donald Trump's transition board. More recently, he gave about $2 million to an unsuccessful bid aimed at getting Trump-backed Kris Kobach elected to the US Senate in 2020. He also donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the RNC in 2018. The venture capitalist, once described as a libertarian, also gave a combined $20 million last year to the Senate campaigns of Ohio conservative and Hillbilly Elegy author JD Vance and Thiel Foundation President Blake Masters in Arizona. Beyond founding Paypal, Thiel is also known as being Mark Zuckerberg's first outside investor in Facebook. He also co-founded Palantir Technologies, a data analytics software company. Maddie, who is half Korean, has also criticized him for claiming to be pro-life and using his mixed-race children as a 'political tool' when he doesn't speak to them A woman who stopped speaking to her Republican politician father over his right-wing views has denied accusations that she is using their public rift for 'fifteen minutes of fame,' saying she wishes they could repair their relationship. Maddie Block, 25, from Massachusetts, has been a vocal critic of her father, Jay Block, a Sandoval County Commissioner and failed New Mexico gubernatorial candidate. The writer, who is a registered Democrat, opened up about her changing political views and her fractured relationship with her dad in an essay for Newsweek, sharing that they haven't seen each other in person in two years. 'I miss my dad all the time, but I don't know how to mend that bridge,' she wrote. 'Of course, it's frustrating. 'I've been accused online of using the rift with my dad for my fifteen minutes of fame, but that's absolutely not the case. I would much rather have a relationship with my dad than feel I have to use my online platform to talk about this.' Maddie Block, 25, from Massachusetts, has been a vocal critic of her dad, Jay Block, a Sandoval County Commissioner and failed New Mexico gubernatorial candidate The writer (pictured with her father) opened up about their fractured relationship in an essay for Newsweek, saying she hasn't seen him in two years Maddie explained that she was born in Florida, but she lived in multiple states and countries with her 'tight-knit' family while her father was in the U.S. Air Force. 'Like many kids, I was fed his viewpoints and opinions during my childhood, so for a while I thought I was a Republican too,' she recalled. Maddie was exposed to more liberal views while attending school in Germany and Netherlands. She saw socialized medicine firsthand and did volunteer work with Syrian refugees. She said that her opinions at the time were often considered to be 'extremely right wing' by her peers, but it wasn't until she was in college and started meeting new people that her political beliefs really started to shift. Maddie was still close with her father when he retired from the military in 2016 and ran for the Sandoval County Board of County Commissioners. Maddie said her dad always 'fell to the right of the political spectrum,' but he became 'increasingly right wing' after being elected Sandoval County Commissioner Maddie shared that it was their differing views on the COVID-19 pandemic that led to the end of their relationship in November 2020 She moved back to the U.S. to help with his campaign, but she didn't tell him about her changing views. While she knew that she was 'no longer Republican,' she was still figuring out her beliefs. Maddie explained that her father always 'fell to the right of the political spectrum,' but she believes he became 'increasingly right wing' after he won the election. She found many of his views difficult to hear, including his anti-abortion stance, and they started to butt heads politically in the years that followed. Maddie claimed that he wouldn't take what she was saying seriously, even when she was factually correct. Her parents also divorced during this time, which added to the strain. But it was their differing views on the COVID-19 pandemic that led to the end of their relationship in November 2020. Maddie, who is half Korean, has criticized her father for using his mixed-race children as a 'political tool' when he doesn't speak to them She explained that her father blocked her on social media after she spoke out against his COVID response because she felt it was putting her 'loved ones at risk.' 'My "pro life" dad doesn't even care that he's infected potentially dozens of people with COVID because of his carelessness,' she tweeted that December. 'I see pictures he posts all the time of him not wearing a mask, eating with groups of friends at restaurants, but yeah, he's "pro life."' By Christmas, she said they weren't speaking at all. Maddie insisted in her essay that she wanted to work on her relationship with her father, but she also needed him to understand 'the gravity of the situation' and why she 'bashed him on social media.' She said he called her a few months later to tell her that he was running for Governor of New Mexico, but they were unable to get past their issues. Maddie has repeatedly criticized her father for claiming to be pro-life and pro-family when he doesn't speak with his own children. In her essay, she explained that she misses her father and doesn't want to 'bad mouth' him, but she feels she has to because he is an elected official Maddie slammed the politician on Twitter in December 2021 after he called New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham 'disgusting' for being pro-choice In December 2021, she called out the commissioner for attacking New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for being pro-choice. 'Don't you love it when people cheer about killing babies? This is exactly what @GovMLG supports, celebrates and applauds. Pretty disgusting but not surprised by her behavior and values killing the unborn. #ProLife,' Jay tweeted. She responded on Twitter, writing, 'My dad likes to call women "disgusting" when they advocate for themselves. He called me "disgusting" too when I called him out on not taking COVID seriously and when I questioned his abusive behavior towards my mom & siblings before he left and disowned us all. "Pro-life" my a**.' Maddie, who is half Korean, later accused her father of using his 'interacial' kids as a political tool' in another tweet from April 2021. 'He doesn't speak to me or my siblings, but he can claim he has mixed race kids when it's useful politically?' she wrote. 'Last time we spoke, he screamed at me that I disgust him and I'm not his daughter.' Maddie has also been candid about her strained relationship with her dad and his alleged hypocrisies on TikTok, where she has more than 14,000 followers. Maddie has also been candid about her strained relationship with her dad and his alleged hypocrisies on TikTok, where she has more than 14,000 followers She went viral in June after calling out her father for being 'pro-life' and celebrating the overturning of Roe v. Wade when he doesn't speak to his own children In June, she went viral after she slammed her father for celebrating the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 landmark decision that made abortion legal at the federal level. Using the app's greenscreen function, she pulled up his tweet, which said, 'This Court has released rulings protecting our freedoms and life! This has been a great week for liberty and the unborn!!!' 'My "pro-life" politician dad who doesn't speak to any of his living, breathing kids has the AUDACITY,' she hit back in the on-screen text. 'The hypocrisy of the Republican party never ceases to amaze me,' she captioned the video, which has been viewed more than 1.6 million times. Maddie admitted in her essay for Newsweek she has conflicted feelings about using her social media platform to bash her father. 'I don't want to sit there and bad mouth my dad, but on the other hand, I have my values and what I think is best for society,' she explained. 'Because my father is an elected official, I think it changes things. Maddie admitted in her essay for Newsweek she has conflicted feelings about using her social media platform to bash her father, but she wants to do what is 'best for society' 'I would much rather have a relationship with my dad than feel I have to use my online platform to talk about this,' she wrote 'He's in a position to implement his viewpoints, as opposed to the average person, who may hold conservative views, but doesn't necessarily have the ability to make laws or policies to fit their worldview.' Maddie isn't the only political daughter who has taken to social media to call out a Republican parent in recent years. Claudia Conway, 17, has repeatedly spoken out against her mother Kellyanne Conway, who served as a senior counselor for former President Donald Trump. In July, the teen organized a protest against the reversal of Roe v. Wade in Englewood, New Jersey, and declared she wouldn't be celebrating the Fourth of July because Americans are 'not free.' That same month, Korynn Dickey, 20, railed against her father, Republican senator Adrian Dickey, after he supported a bill urging Iowa's Supreme Court to overturn a previous ruling that called abortion a 'fundamental right.' In a series of TikTok videos, she accused him of abuse and claimed that she has PTSD from his 'mind games.' 'See, Im a bisexual Pisces and he is a Republican state senator who contributed to taking my rights as a woman away and the possibility of me being able to marry the girl of my dreams one day,' she wrote in the on-screen text of one clip. A new ITV series starring Stephen Graham depicts the shocking true story of a far-right extremist who bought a Roman knife to butcher a Labour MP after studying Jo Cox's murder. Far-right paedophile Jack Renshaw bought a 19-inch replica Roman sword and announced his plans to kill the West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper as part of a 'white jihad' at a pub in Warrington in July 2017. The then 23-year-old, from Skelmersdale in Lancashire, also threatened to kill detective Victoria Henderson, who was investigating him for grooming two young boys. His plan was scuppered by whistleblower Robbie Mullen, from Widnes, Cheshire, who was at the same Cheshire pub when Renshaw revealed his chilling plans. Robbie, who was a member of National Action, reported the plot involving Renshaw to anti-fascist organisation Hope not Hate - who passed on the information to police. The plot is now set to be depicted in the new series The Walk-In, which starts tonight at 9pm and stars Stephen Graham as the reformed neo-Nazi Matthew Collins, who helped thwart the plans as part of the advocacy group. A new ITV series starring Stephen Graham depicts the shocking true story of Jack Renshaw, a far-right extremist, who bought a Roman knife to butcher a Labour MP after studying the Jo Cox's murder Renshaw bought a 19-inch replica Roman sword and announced his plans to kill the West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper as part of a 'white jihad' at a pub in Warrington in July 2017 (left). His plans were reported by Robbie Mullen, from Widnes, Cheshire, to Hope Not Hate (right) Renshaw bought a 19-inch replica Roman sword, known as a 'Gladius knife' to kill Ms Cooper and exact revenge on detective Victoria Henderson who was investigating him for child sex offences The show is set to follow Renshaw's crimes, who had become involved in politics during his teenage years. He then joined the English Defence League first and then moving to the British National Party after meeting its then leader Nick Griffin at an event. Born in Lancashire, he eventually travelled to Manchester to attend the city's Metropolitan University where he studied economics and politics. But was asked to leave because of his far-right activism. He spent years in the BNP, where he appeared in posters, videos as as a speaker at events. The plot is now set to be depicted in the new series The Walk-In, which starts tonight at 9pm and stars Stephen Graham as the reformed neo-Nazi Matthew Collins, who helped thwart the plans as part of the advocacy group (pictured) He also stood for Blackpool Council and worked at the European Parliament in Brussels for a time. He later became involved with National Action, but denies being a member after it was banned in 2016. Who is Jack Renshaw and what are his offences? 2010 Becomes involved with the EDL and joins the BNP aged 15 against his parents' wishes September 2013 Studies politics at Manchester Metropolitan University and becomes the face of the BNP Youth 2014 Declares in a blog that Jewish people are traitors and should be killed. He also appears in a video titled 'BNP Youth Fight Back' September 2015 Is forced to leave university after an investigation into his incitement of racial hatred April 2016 - He called for counter protesters at a rally in Blackpool to be put 'in the chambers' and called Nazism 'natures politics' Yorkshire Forum for Nationalists 2016 tells people that Hitler was wrong in showing Jewish people mercy November 2016 Faces criminal charges over incitement to racial hatred January 11, 2017 - Arrested for hate crimes and terror offences after the arrest of National Action members across the UK May 19, 2017 arrested for child grooming July 1, 2017 tells friends he would murder Rosie Cooper and take hostages in a pub July 5, 2017 charged by the CPS under pressure from the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism April 2018 found guilty of stirring up racial hatred after calling for the genocide of Jewish people June 2018 jailed for 16 months for grooming April 2, 2019 - trial for membership of National Action where the jury was unable to reach a verdict May 17, 2019 - jailed for life with a minimum term of 20 years for plot against Labour MP Advertisement Renshaw had criticised Adolf Hitler for what he believed was showing Jewish people 'mercy'. Jurors at one of his court dates heard a speech he delivered to the Yorkshire Forum for Nationalists in 2016 in which he said: 'I do actually have some problem with the statement 'Hitler was right' in many senses but you know where he was wrong? 'He showed mercy. He showed mercy to people who did not deserve mercy. 'As nationalists, we need to learn from the mistakes of the National Socialists and we need to realise that no, you do not show the Jew mercy.' Renshaw was convicted of four counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, between February 2016 and January 2017, and two counts of inciting racial hatred. Renshaw had been arrested on January 11, 2017 for stirring up racial hatred in relation to two speeches he made, and as a part of the investigation his phone was examined. Detective Victoria Henderson discovered evidence of Renshaw's perverted affairs with the underage boys and arrested him again on May 19. Renshaw had told DC Henderson in interview that she was fabricating evidence for 'the two worst things anyone could be - a homosexual and a paedophile'. He was released on bail and began researching DC Henderson in preparation for the revenge attack. He had also conducted internet searches during May 2017 in relation to cutting of the jugular artery and how long it would take to die after suffering such a wound in preparation for his plan. The paedophile was so determined to stop the detective revealing his paedophilia that he plotted to kill his local MP in a pub. He claimed this would involved taking hostages and luring in DC Henderson to silence her before committing 'suicide by cop'. It was at the Friar Penketh pub in Warrington that he revealed his plans, at a meeting with the leader of National Action, Christopher Lythgoe and others. National Action leader Lythgoe, 32, of Warrington, and his right-hand man Matthew Hankinson, 24, from Merseyside, were present when Renshaw outlined his plans to murder Ms Cooper. The organisation is hostile to democracy and the British state and has sought to radicalise young people through violent imagery and 'hate-filled' social media messages, as well as street demonstrations and intimidation of local communities. Renshaw (right) had once been a British National Party youth leader. He is pictured here alongside Nick Griffin, who served as chairman and then president of the BNP from 1999 to 2014 He was jailed at the Old Bailey for life with a minimum term of 20 years after plotting to murder Labour MP Rosie Cooper and threatening to kill a police officer It was at the Friar Penketh pub in Warrington that Renshaw revealed his plans, at a meeting with the leader of National Action, Christopher Lythgoe and others Pictured: Matthew Collins, who is depicted in the series by Stephen Graham, outside Downing Street Both Lythgoe and Hankinson were convicted of membership in 2018. Renshaw told the Old Bailey at a hearing how he spent just under a month planning to kill Ms Cooper to 'send the state a message'. Meanwhile Mullen, who went on his first White Pride march in 2015 and became involved with National Action, was also there. What is National Action? National Action is the first extreme right-wing group to be proscribed by the Government since the Second World War. In December 2016, it was banned by the then home secretary Amber Rudd over its support for the murder of Batley and Spen MP Ms Cox. Lythgoe reacted to the news by telling members that they would 'just shed one skin for another'. The North West contingent continued to meet in pubs and train together at a new mixed martial arts gym in Warrington, it was alleged. Advertisement At a court hearing hearing, Robbie, who reported Renshaw's plans to Hope Not Hate, recalled hearing Renshaw reveal his plans in the pub. Mr Mullen told jurors: 'He said he was going to kill his local MP, Rosie Cooper. I said 'Are you sure?' and he said 'Yeah'. 'He said he would kill her, then try to take some hostages to lure the police officer that was investigating him to try to kill her because she was the reason behind it all. 'He said his mind was made up. He had bought a machete.' Renshaw said he would wear a fake suicide vest so he would be killed by police, Mr Mullen added. He had revealed his intentions just a year after Labour MP Jo Cox was stabbed and shot by a fellow far-right extremist, Thomas Mair. When members of National Action began discussing becoming 'white jihadis' Mullen contacted Hope not Hate and met with former far right activist Collins. In July 2017, Mullen warned Collins about the planned double attack. Mullen said he was convinced Renshaw was serious about going on a killing spree. Renshaw had planned to make a 'white jihad' video explaining his motives for the terror attack. But he was arrested on July 5, 2017. Members did not initially realise who had been the police informant in the group, however as police began arresting other members of the group, and Mullen remained at large, suspicions were raised. Mullen was warned his life was at risk and forced to flee his home, while Collins also had to leave his home due to his part in the investigation. The new ITV series, which stars Andrew Ellis as Robbie and Dean-Charles Chapman as Jack, is set to start tonight The series will follow the lead-up to the foiling of the arrest and the relationship between the two men (pictured) Renshaw declined to give evidence in his retrial, but in his first trial in 2018 explained his reasons for targeting Ms Cooper. He said: 'I wanted to send a message to the state that if you beat a dog long enough it bites - she just happened to be my local MP.' In 2019, he was jailed for life at the Old Bailey in London for the plot against Ms Cooper and threats towards DC Henderson and told he must serve a minimum term of 20 years. As he was led away, Renshaw raised his arm in an apparent Nazi salute as a supporter in the public gallery shouted 'we're with you Jack'. Sentencing Renshaw, Mrs Justice McGowan said: 'Your perverted view of history and current politics has caused you to believe it right to demonise groups simply because they are different from you.' She added: 'This is a case in which only a sentence of life imprisonment can meet the appalling seriousness of your offending.' The series will star Stephen as Matthew Collins, a reformed Neo-Nazi, now working as a bona fide journalist for the anti-racist organisation, Hope not Hate The drama was written by Oscar nominated and BAFTA multi award-winning screenwriter, Jeff Pope The judge also commended MP Rosie Cooper and police officer Victoria Henderson. 'The dignity and bravery they have demonstrated show the true public spirit and public interest that motivated their work,' she said. Speaking after the hearing today, Ms Cooper said in a statement: 'My deepest wish is that this case is the last occasion when any public servant, any politician, has their life threatened for simply doing their job. 'I believe today justice has been served. Not for me personally, but for every MP and public servant, and for our democratic way of life which affords us the privilege of free speech, without fear of violent retribution.' While Ms Henderson told the court today that knowing what Renshaw was planning to do to her: 'makes me feel physically sick.' Will Chatterton, head of investigations for counter terrorism policing in the North West, said the jail term reflected 'the vile and shocking nature' of Renshaw's views and plans. Asked about the Nazi salute given by Renshaw in court, he added: 'I believe that was towards members in the upper section (public gallery). 'Again a sort of vile and disrespectful act which I guess demonstrates the fact that he's a dangerous individual who still holds appalling and extreme views.' Speaking to the Independent about the new series, which follows the foiling of the plot and the events leading up to it, Mr Collins explained how he works to turn extremists into informants. He explained: 'All the conspiracy and hatred often begins with a reasonable grievance that people cannot address. 'A Nazi doesn't jump out of a bush saying 'think like this'. There's no point saying we've got to counter groups if we don't counter the reasons behind them.' The Walk-In starts tonight on ITV at 9pm The Countess of Wessex looked elegant in a green polkadot dress as she became the first member of the royal family to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo today. Sophie, who is married to King Charles' brother Prince Edward, is carrying out an official visit to the African country at the request of the Foreign Office. The Palace said on Monday that the countess's visit will focus on addressing the devastating impact of sexual and gender-based violence in conflict, while supporting and empowering survivors and tackling the stigma they face. In photographs released from the visit today, the mother-of-two could be seen in a glamorous green dress as she arrived in the country alongside Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, the Prime Minister's special representative on preventing sexual violence in conflict. The Countess of Wessex, 57, looked elegant in a green dress as she became the first member of the royal family to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo today Sophie, who is married to King Charles' brother Prince Edward, is carrying out an official visit to the African country at the request of the Foreign Office Security will be tight for Sophie's visit, which had been planned for many months before the death of the Queen. During the first day of her trip, she attended a meeting in Bukavu, South Kivu Province, with representatives from TRIAL International. It is a non-governmental organization which is dedicated to fighting impunity for international crimes in conflict, as well as providing legal support to survivors of conflict related violence and human rights violations as they seek justice In its recent history, the DRC has endured years of civil conflict in what has been called Africa's world war, with the loss of up to six million lives through fighting or disease and malnutrition. During the first day of her trip, she attended a meeting in Bukavu, South Kivu Province, with representatives from TRIAL International Sophie's visit is taking place in the run-up to the International Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative Conference in London next month, which is being hosted by the UK Government and which the countess will attend Sophie, who publicly committed herself to supporting the UK's work helping victims of rape, sexual violence and exploitation in war in 2019, attending a meeting during her visit A peace agreement was signed in 2002 but violence continued in some areas, requiring a large United Nations military force to try to maintain order. This August, Africa's second largest country faced rising regional tensions in the east, with weeks of deadly protests against UN peacekeepers. Sophie's visit is taking place in the run-up to the International Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative Conference in London next month, which is being hosted by the UK Government and which the countess will attend. She publicly committed herself to supporting the UK's work helping victims of rape, sexual violence and exploitation in war in 2019. The Countess met with a non-governmental organization which is dedicated to fighting impunity for international crimes in conflict, as well as providing legal support to survivors of conflict related violence and human rights violations as they seek justice Sophie said last year that hearing survivors' stories of sexual violence has taken her to 'some very dark places' during her work to raise awareness Sophie said last year that hearing survivors' stories of sexual violence has taken her to 'some very dark places' during her work to raise awareness. 'Every story I am told is pushing me forward. I feel obligated to tell people this is happening - it is their story to tell and I support them,' she added. Elsewhere, she opted for a vibrant red gown as she received gifts from representatives from the Pole Pole Foundation during her visit. She appeared deeply touched as she met with representatives from the Pole Pole Foundation, who gave Her Royal Highness a Congolese name, Umoja Mama Louise, It is not the first royal engagement Sophie has taken part in since her mother-in-law's death last month The Countess donned army attire as she visited the home of the Corps of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers at MOD Lyneham, in Wiltshire last week. The Countess of Wessex met with the Governor of South Kivu Theo Ngwabije, at the Governor's Office in Bukavu in South Kivu Province The Countess chatted with the Governor in his office in South Kivu Province earlier this afternoon Mother-of-two Sophie was visiting for the first time since she received her honorary title as Colonel-in-Chief in March this year, the role previously held for over 50 years by The Duke of Edinburgh. The Queen's daughter-in-law looked the part in a camouflage jacket and khaki jeans which she paired with chunky boots. The Royal, who had a close bond with the late monarch, referred to her as 'Mama.' Sophie works tirelessly as patron of more than 70 charities and organisations and has been praised for her dedication to duty within the royal family. The Countess of Wessex receives gifts from representatives from the Pole Pole Foundation during a visit to Bukavu, South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo The Countess appeared deeply touched as she met with presentatives from the Pole Pole Foundation, who gave Her Royal Highness a Congolese name, Umoja Mama Louise During the visit, Sophie heard about the Pole Pole Foundation's conservation work, which not only protects the gorillas of the Kahuzi Biega National Park from poachers, but supports local communities by giving them the skills for alternative, nonexploitative livelihoods Advertisement Sasha Obama was spotted flashing her tattoo as she headed to class in Los Angeles on Monday - just a few days after her older sister, Malia, was seen grabbing lunch. The 21-year-old daughter of former President Barack Obama soaked up the sun in a bright purple and pink crop top and a knee-length patterned skirt as she strolled through the University of Southern California's campus. Sasha's long dark hair was pulled back in a side braid, and her tank top revealed the hot air balloon tattoo on the back of her arm. When she was 11, her father hilariously tried to dissuade her and her sister from rebelling and getting a tattoo by promising to get the same one. Sasha Obama, 21, was spotted heading to class at the University of Southern California on Monday The youngest daughter of former President Barack Obama soaked up the sun in a bright purple and pink crop Just a few days before, her older sister, Malia, 24, was seen grabbing a quick to-go lunch in Los Angeles 'What weve said is, "If you guys ever decided youre going to get a tattoo, then mommy and me will get the exact same tattoo, in the same place. And well go on YouTube and show it off as a family tattoo,"' the president joked in 2013. However, nearly a decade later, it seems doubtful that her parents are now rocking matching ink. Sasha looked like any other college student on Monday as she made her way to class with tote bags slung over her shoulder and a metal water bottle in her hand. She also appeared to be holding onto a vape, which she has been seen with before. Former President Obama recalled being a heavy smoker in his 2020 memoir, 'A Promised Land,' admitting that he would sometimes smoke eight, nine, or ten cigarettes a day during his presidency. Her older sister, Malia, 24, has also been seen smoking on numerous occasions over the years. Sasha's fingers were covered with rings, and her long nails were perfectly manicured per usual. She topped off her casual classroom look with a pair of colorful Nike sneakers. She has been living in Los Angeles along with Malia after transferring from the University of Michigan to USC to finish college. When Sasha was 11, her father hilariously tried to dissuade her and her sister from rebelling and getting a tattoo by promising to get the same one The college senior paired her bright crop top with a knee-length patterned skirt Sasha looked like any other college student with tote bags slung over her shoulder and a water bottle in her hand Sasha has been seen on USC campus numerous times since she transferred schools last year Sasha's trip to class comes just a few days after her older sister was seen grabbing lunch at the Mediterranean eatery CAVA on Saturday. Malia looked effortlessly chic in a denim overall dress, a blue T-shirt, and a pair of $400 Marc Jacobs combat boots that are no longer available. The Harvard graduate, who is currently working on Donald Glover's upcoming Amazon show, seemed somber as she exited the customizable salad chain with her to-go order in hand. Malia's long, braided hair was pulled half up with tendrils framing her face, and she wore sunglasses to shield her eyes from the LA sun. She also appeared to be holding onto a vape, which she has been seen with before Sasha topped off her casual classroom look with a pair of colorful Nike sneakers Sasha accessorized her outfit with a choker necklace and plenty of rings on her fingers She held her belongings in a white tote bag that said 'The Circle Line' on it, and carried her car keys, which were attached to an adorable plush keychain of Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh. The week before, Malia and Sasha were seen grabbing dinner with their father on Saturday, September 25. Barack jetted to the West Coast to pay his daughters a visit, and the trio ate at the pricey sushi restaurant Hamasaku, where eight-piece sushi rolls cost $50 and specialty rolls go for more than $20 each. Hamasaku boasts a fusion of traditional Japanese sushi with a taste of California and features a plethora of dishes containing salmon, lobster, crab, tuna, yellowtail, and other seafood. Sasha was also seen on campus with her hair down in loose waves on the same day The college student blended in with her peers as she walked to and from class on Monday Sasha was seen running her fingers through her long hair as she walked around campus Sasha had Airpods in her ears and her phone in her hand, suggesting that she was listening to either music or a podcast While Barack dined with his daughters, his wife, former First Lady Michelle Obama, 58, was across the country in Seneca Falls, New York, being inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame. It's unclear if Barack is still in California. The couple celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on Monday, and they both shared gushing tributes to each other to commemorate three full decades of marriage. 'Miche,' Barack wrote in a heartfelt message to his wife. 'After 30 years, Im not sure why you look exactly the same and I dont. 'I do know that I won the lottery that day - that I couldnt have asked for a better life partner. Happy anniversary, sweetheart!' Malia was seen out and about in Los Angeles on Saturday, just a few days before her younger sister was seen at USC Malia looked effortlessly chic in a denim overall dress and a blue sleeveless tee, which she paired with $400 white Marc Jacobs combat boots Malia stopped by the Mediterranean eatery CAVA, where she was seen picking up her food before heading back to her car alone The Harvard grad - who is currently working on Donald Glover's upcoming unnamed Amazon show - seemed somber as she exited the customizable salad chain She wore a pair of dark sunglasses to shield her eyes from the strong, LA sun She held her belongings in a white tote bag that said 'The Circle Line' on it Malia carried her car keys in her hand - which had an adorable Eeyore (from Winnie The Pooh) keychain on it The outing comes one week after 24-year-old was seen grabbing dinner with her dad, Barack, 61, and younger sister, Sasha, 21 Michelle also took to Instagram to share a loving note to her husband, in which she called their relationship an 'adventure.' 'Happy anniversary to the man I love,' she gushed. 'These last 30 years have been an adventure, and Im grateful to have you by my side. Heres to a lifetime together. I love you, @BarakObama.' Malia was the first Obama daughter to move to Los Angeles after graduating from Harvard University with the goal of becoming a screenwriter. In March, Donald revealed that he had given Malia her first job as a writer on his new series, which is reportedly about 'a Beyonce-type character,' with the actor calling her 'amazingly talented' and 'really focused' at the time. 'Shes just like, an amazingly talented person,' Donald, 38, who is also known by his stage name Childish Gambino, told Vanity Fair at the time. 'Shes really focused, and shes working really hard.' He did not share how Malia - who previously interned on Lena Dunham's HBO series Girls in 2015 and at The Weinstein Company in 2017 - landed the job after she graduated from college, but he added that he believed she has a promising future in the industry. Barack jetted over to the West Coast to pay his daughters a visit, and the trio ate at the pricey sushi restaurant Hamasaku last Saturday night Both Sasha and Malia are currently living in Los Angeles, with Malia moving there last year, after graduating from Harvard, to pursue a career as a screenwriter In March, Donald revealed that he had given the 24-year-old her first job as a writer on his new series, which is reportedly about 'a Beyonce-type character,' with the actor calling her 'amazingly talented' and 'really focused' at the time 'Shes just like, an amazingly talented person,' Donald, 38, who is also known by his stage name Childish Gambino, told Vanity Fair at the time. 'Shes really focused, and shes working really hard' As for Sasha, she transferred to the University of Southern California from the University of Michigan earlier this year. Both of Michelle and Barack's daughters appear to be in relationships at the moment - DailyMail.com exclusively revealed in April that Sasha was dating Clifton Powell Jr., 24, who is the son of Ray actor Clifton Powell. Clifton Jr. and Sasha are understood to have met after she relocated to California, and it appears that he is already close with the family - as he has been seen hanging out with Malia a few times in recent months. Malia, on the other hand, is currently in a relationship with Ethiopian DJ Dawit Eklund. They were first linked on July 26, when the two were caught grabbing takeout food together, and since then, they have been pictured side-by-side on numerous occasions. Dawit, 33, is the son of retired State Department officer Jon Eklund, 72, who worked at several US embassies in Africa and his Ethiopian wife Yeshi, 66. He did not share how Malia landed the job after she graduated from college but he added that he believed she has a promising future in the industry She previously interned on Lena Dunham's HBO series Girls in 2015 and at The Weinstein Company in 2017 Both of Michelle and Barack's daughters appear to be in relationships at the moment - Malia is currently dating Ethiopian DJ Dawit Eklund They were first linked on July 26, when the two were caught grabbing takeout food together, and since then, they have been pictured side-by-side on numerous occasions Dawit, 33, is the son of retired State Department officer Jon Eklund, 72, who worked at several US embassies in Africa and his Ethiopian wife Yeshi, 66 He co-founded Washington, D.C.-based record label 1432 R, which specializes in Ethiopian music, and graduated from George Washington University, where he studied International Development in Africa He was not present during her trip to CAVA, and was last seen with her in September, when the two visited New York City together He co-founded Washington, D.C.-based record label 1432 R, which specializes in Ethiopian music, and graduated from George Washington University, where he studied International Development in Africa. In April, Sasha and Malia's mother, Michelle, opened up about how both of her daughters are all grown up during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Ellen, 64, Michelle how Sasha and Malia had first visited the show when they were little girls who wanted to see the Jonas Brothers. But over a decade later, they've graduated from boybands to boyfriends. 'Now they're bringing grown men home,' Michelle said. 'Now they have boyfriends and real lives and all that stuff. They have grown up right before our very eyes and they are doing well.' While Mrs. Obama gushed about the 'amazing young women' her daughters have become - 'Women, I know! Scary,' she said - and divulged that they are dating, she was much more discreet about the details of their love lives. Doctors told him it was 'nothing to worry about', later was found to be cancer His only symptom was a pea-sized lump on his left nipple that surfaced in 2016 Danny Goss was diagnosed with breast cancer on Christmas Eve in 2019 A father-of-two diagnosed with breast cancer on Christmas Eve, 2019, first noticed a pea-sized lump on his nipple in 2016. Danny Goss, from Victoria, went for an ultrasound at the time and doctors told him it was 'just a cyst' and 'nothing to worry about'. But three years later the tiny two-centimetre lump remained so Danny thought it best to head back to the doctor where he received the shock diagnosis. This decision likely saved his life as cancer cells had started to spread through his body, sparking a battle that he's still fighting today. 'I didn't know men could get breast cancer - I thought men were safe from it,' the 46-year-old IT manager told FEMAIL. Danny Goss, from Victoria, first noticed a pea-sized lump on his left nipple in 2016 and an ultrasound showed it was 'just a cyst' that was 'nothing to worry about' (pictured: Danny, left, with his family visiting Sydney) But three years later the tiny 2cm lump still hadn't gone away, which was enough motivated Danny to get it checked again. After the second ultrasound in 2019, Danny received a call and was completely stunned after hearing the words 'breast cancer' (pictured with wife Belinda) After the second ultrasound in 2019, Danny was completely stunned to receive the dreaded 'you have breast cancer' phone call. 'I didn't expect it at all and felt like everything would be okay because it had been cleared before - it's never a good day finding out you have cancer,' he said. 'I was confused because I didn't know how common it was in men. Thankfully the cancer was in the early stages when I was diagnosed.' In Australia breast cancer is the second most common cancer, with 57 people being diagnosed every day, majority of which are women. Around 150 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Australia, mostly over the age of 50. Danny said the small lump was his only symptom, it didn't hurt when touched and he has no family history of breast cancer. On Christmas day Danny had 'a million thoughts and so many questions' running through his mind. 'Because of the holidays, I couldn't have any resting until mid-January - it was an anxious few weeks of waiting,' he said After visiting the doctor, Danny had a biopsy and further scans to confirm it was cancer and then started chemotherapy in February for six months; luckily he had few side effects. 'I lived a healthy lifestyle, don't smoke or drink anymore, eat well and exercise when I can,' Danny said. 'Unfortunately things worsened as the cancer had been found in two lymph nodes - meaning it was more likely to spread elsewhere.' He also had a mastectomy to 'cut out a chunk' of tissue and remove a number of lymph nodes under his arm. Danny then had five weeks of radiotherapy which was 'a lot easier than chemotherapy'. What are the signs of breast cancer in men? Symptoms of breast cancer in men are similar to those for women and include: a breast lump thickening of the breast tissue dimpling of the skin of the breast change in shape of the breast or nipple a discharge from the nipple a painful area swollen lymph nodes in the armpit area Source: cancer.org Advertisement During the six months that followed, Danny was feeling 'a lot better' and doctors thought they had removed all traces of the cancer. But in July 2021 Danny's hip started feeling sore and while he wasn't worried, he visited the doctor 'just in case'. Scans detected two cancerous spots on his hip and shoulder bones, leaving Danny to deal with another huge blow. 'It felt like I was back to day one, but the prognosis was far worse,' he said, adding how he had to stop himself from 'Googling' everything. A high dose of radiotherapy on the hip and shoulder followed, along with another bout of chemotherapy. Today, Danny isn't 'in the clear' yet, takes three evening pills daily and has injections once a month with hope to kill any remaining traces of cancer completely. Danny had chemotherapy and radiotherapy which he thought cleared the cancer, but unfortunately in July 2021 doctors found it had spread to his shoulder and hip. A high dose of radiotherapy on the hip and shoulder followed, along with another bout of chemotherapy (pictured with his daughter) 'It's all looking really good now,' Danny said. 'During my checkups doctors measure tumour markers in the blood, and mine continued to rise over the last few months but then dropped all of a sudden, which is great to hear.' Despite living with cancer, Danny has continued working and in December completed a 70km hike over five days in Tasmania with his daughter and extended family. Today, Danny isn't 'in the clear' yet and takes three evening pills daily and has injections once a month with hope to kill any remaining traces of cancer completely Danny hopes his story can inspire other men to be diligent with health checks and to raise awareness that men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer. 'I'm so glad I went to get checked when I did. Sometimes I think what would've happened had I not gone back,' he said. 'I knew something was wrong because the lump hadn't gone away; I thought "this isn't right". 'Even if the results came back clear the second time round, I probably would've had it removed anyway just to be sure.' A Swedish 'DNA hunter' who effectively discovered that Neanderthals are still alive was today awarded a Nobel Prize. Professor Svante Paabo's 'seemingly impossible' task saw him prove interbreeding occurred between Homo Sapiens and our closest ancient relatives. The 67-year-old, who received the congratulatory call while enjoying a cup of coffee at home this morning, also uncovered the 'sensational' existence of a once-unknown human species the Denisovans. Professor Paabo's feats were only made possible by painstakingly analysing the DNA of bones that are thousands of years' old. He pipped the scientists behind the mRNA Covid vaccines which have saved millions of lives during the pandemic, who were thought to be the frontrunners after missing out on the prestigious award last year. The 67-year-old, who received the congratulatory call while enjoying a cup of coffee at home this morning (pictured after being told the news), also uncovered the existence of a previously unknown human species the Denisovans Professor Paabo's feats were only made possible by painstakingly analysing the DNA of bones that are thousands of years' old (pictured, a member of the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine explains his research field) He pipped the scientists behind the mRNA Covid vaccines which have saved millions of lives during the pandemic, who were thought to be the frontrunners after missing out on the prestigious award last year Professor Paabo son of the Nobel Prize-winning biochemist Sune Bergstrom has drastically transformed the study of human origins What did Professor Svante Paabo discover? Professor Svante Paabo son of the Nobel Prize-winning biochemist Sune Bergstrom has drastically transformed the study of human origins. His pioneering approach, which took years of fine-tuning, allows for the examination of DNA sequences from ancient remains. One of his key achievements includes sequencing an entire Neanderthal genome to reveal the link between extinct people and modern humans. While Neanderthal bones were first found in the mid-19th century, only by unlocking their DNA often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the rough period of time when modern humans, or Homo sapiens, and Neanderthals diverged as a species, determined to be around 800,000 years ago. He also brought to light the existence of a previously unknown human species called the Denisovans, from a 40,000-year-old fragment of a finger bone found in a frozen cave in Siberia. Advertisement Thomas Perlmann, secretary of the Nobel Committee, announced this year's winner at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden. 'He was overwhelmed, he was speechless. Very happy,' said Dr Perlmann, who called Professor Paabo with the news. 'He asked if he could tell anyone and asked if he could tell his wife and I said that was okay. He was incredibly thrilled about this award.' Professor Paabo son of the Nobel Prize-winning biochemist Sune Bergstrom has drastically transformed the study of human origins during his 40 years of academic work. His pioneering approach, which took years of fine-tuning, allows for the examination of DNA sequences from ancient remains. One of his key achievements includes sequencing an entire Neanderthal genome to reveal the link between extinct people and modern humans. While Neanderthal bones were first found in the mid-19th century, only by unlocking their DNA often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the rough period of time when modern humans, or Homo sapiens, and Neanderthals diverged as a species, determined to be around 800,000 years ago. His team's work to map the complete genetic code of Neanderthals, who mysteriously died out tens of thousands years ago, also revealed that their genes have been passed down to us today. In fact, up to four per cent of the DNA of people living in some parts of the world is thought to come from the short, stocky cavemen. 'This ancient flow of genes to present-day humans has physiological relevance today, for example affecting how our immune system reacts to infections,' the Nobel jury said. Evidence of interbreeding now exists: A skeleton of a Neanderthal compared with a skeleton of a modern human (Homo sapiens) Thomas Perlmann (pictured right, alongside a committee), secretary of the Nobel Committee, announced the winner on Monday at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden Past winners of the Nobel Prize for Medicine or Physiology 2022: Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo for his discoveries on the genomes of extinct hominins and human evolution. 2021: US duo David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for discoveries on human receptors responsible for our ability to sense temperature and touch. 2020: Americans Harvey Alter and Charles Rice, together with Briton Michael Houghton, for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus, leading to the development of sensitive blood tests and antiviral drugs. 2019: William Kaelin and Gregg Semenza of the US and Britain's Peter Ratcliffe for establishing the basis of our understanding of how cells react and adapt to different oxygen levels. 2018: Immunologists James Allison of the US and Tasuku Honjo of Japan, for figuring out how to release the immune system's brakes to allow it to attack cancer cells more efficiently. 2017: US geneticists Jeffrey Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael Young for their discoveries on the internal biological clock that governs the wake-sleep cycles of most living things. 2016: Yoshinori Ohsumi of Japan for his work on autophagy - a process whereby cells 'eat themselves' - which when disrupted can cause Parkinson's and diabetes. 2015: William Campbell, a US citizen born in Ireland, Satoshi Omura of Japan and Tu Youyou of China for unlocking treatments for malaria and roundworm. 2014: American-born Briton John O'Keefe, Edvard I. Moser and May-Britt Moser of Norway for discovering how the brain navigates with an 'inner GPS'. 2013: Thomas C. Sudhof, a US citizen born in Germany, and James E. Rothman and Randy W. Schekman of the US for work on how the cell organises its transport system. Advertisement Professor Paabo, based at Germany's Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, also brought to light the existence of a previously unknown human species called the Denisovans, from a 40,000-year-old fragment of a finger bone found in a frozen cave in Siberia. Created in the will of Swedish dynamite inventor and wealthy businessman Alfred Nobel, the prizes for achievements in science, literature and peace have been awarded since 1901, though the economics prize is a later addition. The Covid pandemic has placed medical research centre stage with many expecting that the development of the vaccines that have allowed the world to regain some sense of normality may eventually be rewarded. Still, it typically takes many years for any given research to be honoured, with the committees charged with picking the winners looking to determine its full value with some certainty amongst what is always a packed field of contenders. Dr Perlmann said: 'We only talk about people who are getting the Nobel Prize and not those who are not receiving or not received them yet.' The Nobel Award committee officially gave Professor Paabo the prize for 'discoveries concerning the genomes of extinct hominins and human evolution'. His prize, arguably among the most prestigious in the scientific world, is worth 10m Swedish crowns ($900,357). It is the first of this year's batch of prizes. Past winners in the field include a string of famous researchers, notably Alexander Fleming, who shared the 1945 prize for the discovery of penicillin. Last year, the Medicine Prize went to US pair David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for discoveries on receptors for temperature and touch, which have been used to develop treatments for a wide range of diseases and conditions, including chronic pain. The Nobel season continues this week with the announcement of the winners of the Physics Prize on Tuesday and the Chemistry Prize on Wednesday. They will be followed by the much-anticipated prizes for Literature on Thursday and Peace on Friday. Among those cited as possible Peace Prize laureates are the International Criminal Court, tasked with investigating war crimes in Ukraine, jailed Russian dissident Alexei Navalny and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The Economics Prize winds things up on Monday, October 10. More than 22,000 hospital appointments are being cancelled every day despite waiting lists for treatment standing at a record 6.8million, it emerged today. The Government has pledged to tackle the NHS care backlog but some patients are continuing to see their appointments cancelled multiple times. So far this year, the average number of cancellations each day was 20 per cent more than it was before the pandemic, when around 18,000 were axed every day. NHS England figures show 6.8million patients were in the queue for routine hospital treatment in July, equivalent to one in eight people. Nearly 380,000 have been waiting for over one year WHAT DO THE LATEST NHS PERFORMANCE FIGURES SHOW? The overall waiting list jumped to 6.84million in July. This is up from 6.73million in June and is the highest number since records began in August 2007. There were 2,885 people waiting more than two years to start treatment at the end of July, down from 3,861 in June but still higher than April 2021, when the figure started to be recorded. The number of people waiting more than a year to start hospital treatment was 377,689, up from 355,774 the previous month. Some 28,756 people had to wait more than 12 hours in A&E departments in England in August. The figure is down from 29,317 in July but is the second highest for any month since record began in 2010. A total of 130,528 people waited at least four hours from the decision to admit to admission in August, down slightly from the all-time high of 136,298 in March. Just 71.4 per cent of patients were seen within four hours at A&Es last month, the second-worst ever performance. NHS standards set out that 95 per cent should be admitted, transferred or discharged within the four-hour window. In August, the average category one response time calls from people with life-threatening illnesses or injuries was nine minutes and eight seconds. The target time is seven minutes. Ambulances took an average of 42 minutes and 44 seconds to respond to category two calls, such as burns, epilepsy and strokes. This is more than twice as long as the 18 minute target. Response times for category three calls such as late stages of labour, non-severe burns and diabetes averaged two hours, 16 minutes and 23 seconds. Ambulances are supposed to arrive to these calls within two hours. Some 424,605 patients were waiting more than six weeks for a key diagnostic test in July, including an MRI scan, non-obstetric ultrasound or gastroscopy. Advertisement The data comes from 78 trusts who answered freedom of information requests sent by the Daily Telegraph. It is not clear what the cancelled appointments were for, but they may include X-rays and other medical scans Daily cancellations were at their highest in 2020 the first year of the pandemic when they hit 24,561, before dropping to 20,856 in 2021 and now rising again this year to 22,178. In 2021, the number of appointments that were cancelled five times or more stood at 30,267 two-thirds higher than in 2019 (17,884). In the same year, the number of appointments axed 10 or more times was 1,325 an increase by 50 per cent compared to 2019 when it was 900, according to the data. Some trusts clarified that appointments may be recorded as cancellations if they are moved to a different part of the hospital or carried out by a different clinician. Jeremy Hunt, former health secretary, called the numbers 'staggering' and warned that the trend of cancellations would simply continue unless a plan to tackle staff shortages was implemented. Health Secretary Therese Coffey pledged to reduce waiting times in her 'plan for patients' last month. But she added that they 'expect backlogs to rise before they fall as more patients come forward for diagnosis and treatment'. Health leaders have emphasised that there needs to be urgent action taken to deal with the 105,000 vacancies in the NHS and 165,000 vacancies in social care. It emerged last week that more than 40,000 nurses have left the NHS in the past year one in nine of the workforce according to the Nuffield trust. Ms Coffey's 'plan for patients' faced backlash immediately after it was announced over a lack of specificities on a workforce strategy. The Department of Health has commissioned the NHS to work on a long-term plan for the workforce but it is still in the process of being completed. Professor Vic Rayner OBE, CEO of the National Care Forum, said the Government needed to 'wake up to the massive challenge facing the social care workforce and outline a strategic workforce plan that addresses pay, terms and conditions in a meaningful way'. Thousands of healthcare workers across the board will threaten to strike this winter over pay amid hospitals across the UK being forced to set up food banks and voucher programmes to help their staff afford rent, fuel or food. Health leaders have warned that staff are resigning in order to earn better wages in pubs, restaurants and coffee shops to cope with the cost-of-living crisis and with a diminishing workforce comes an increasing number of appointment cancellations. Ms Coffey's plan did mention 'bringing forward planned uplifts relating to pay for the adult social care workforce'. Emergency unit data shows that three in 10 Britons were forced to wait longer than four hours in A&E departments in August, while nearly one thousand per day waited for 12 hours Ambulance response times recovered slightly in August but the time taken for paramedics to arrive on the scene was still well above targets Cancer patients starting treatment within two months of an urgent referral increased from 59.9 per cent in June to 61.6 per cent in July. But the figure is below the 85 per cent standard, which hasn't been hit since 2014 But there was disappointment to this news. Caroline Abrahams, charity director for Age UK, said: 'We wanted the Secretary of State to announce an immediate pay rise for care workers in her statement. 'Without it we remain concerned that care staff will continue to walk away, attracted by appreciably better terms and conditions in other sectors.' One in 10 (9.5 per cent) appointments equating to 11.6 million were cancelled by hospitals in England in 2021-22, according to NHS Digital. Ten years ago, 6.3 per cent of appointments were cancelled 5.8 million. The number of outpatient appointments in 2021-22 were still below pre-pandemic levels at 122.3 million compared to 124.9 million in 2019-20. NHS England has set a target of delivering around 30 per cent more elective activity by 2024-25 than before the pandemic in a bid to tackle backlogs. Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patients' Association, told the Telegraph: 'Although it's not possible to tell what type of appointment is being cancelled from these figures, delays and cancellations feed into patients' sense of being abandoned by the NHS, which has been building since the start of the pandemic when so many services that patients relied on were closed to them. 'I can only imagine the distress and frustration for those patients whose appointments have been cancelled multiple times.' An NHS spokesman said: 'The NHS is under considerable pressure with continued high demand for services and staff dealing with more patients with Covid in hospital this summer than the previous two combined, but it is important that appointments are only cancelled when absolutely necessary.' A Department for Health and Social Care spokesman said progress was being made in reducing the backlog but said they 'know there is more to do'. They added: 'We are working with NHS England to build additional capacity in hospitals by recruiting 50,000 more nurses by 2024, and are opening up to 160 community diagnostic centres across the country 92 of which are already open and have delivered 1.9 million additional checks in addition to the 92 surgical hubs already open to help diagnose and treat patients more quickly.' A daughter hugs her hospitalized mother during her visit to a nursing home located in Daejeon City, June 2021. Yonhap By Lee Yeon-woo Starting Tuesday, people will be allowed to visit their elderly relatives at long-term care facilities in person. Elderly people who receive their second booster of a COVID-19 vaccine will also be permitted to leave their facility and stay out overnight. Due to the COVID-19 resurgence this summer, in-person visits were suspended in late July. A steady decrease in the daily number of infections and a more than 90-percent rate of vaccination with the second booster of the residents of such facilities has led the government to decide to loosen restrictions, the Central Disaster Management Headquarters (CDMH) said Friday. Under the eased rules, any visitors confirmed to be negative through the use of COVID-19 self-test kits will be allowed to hold hands with and hug their elderly relatives. However, facilities should still follow several quarantine rules. They should receive visitors' reservations in advance, check visitors' self-test kit results to ensure they are negative, prohibit indoor eating, ventilate rooms before and after visits and make sure that visitors wear face masks. Facility residents will be permitted temporarily to go out if they have received their second booster of a COVID-19 vaccine or have been infected with COVID-19 before and have received two doses of the vaccine. Before returning to the facility, they must take a Rapid Antigen Test and produce a negative result. Suspended programs and events are expected to resume. Outside lecturers will now be allowed to enter nursing homes after receiving their first COVID-19 booster shot or if they have previously been infected with COVID-19 before and have received two doses of the vaccine. "It would have been disappointing and uncomfortable as restrictions don't allow you to even hold elderly peoples' hands. I sincerely thank the facility residents, families and friends for believing and following the government's rules. The government will put its best efforts to recover facility residents' daily lives in a healthy and safe way," said Park Hyang, head of the COVID-19 Quarantine Policy Coordination Unit at the CDMH, during the press briefing. Almost 48million birds have been culled this year across Europe due to the biggest ever avian flu outbreak. The highly contagious virus which experts fear could jump to humans and trigger another pandemic usually dies out in the summer. Yet this year, avian influenza has persisted all-year round. Government advisers have called the current situation 'unprecedented' and farmers have warned Christmas turkey supplies are potentially at risk, if the virus continues to rip through poultry farms. Rates are only expected to spiral as flocks of migratory birds start to arrive in the UK over the coming weeks. The highly contagious virus which experts fear could jump to humans and trigger another pandemic usually dies out in the summer. Yet this year, avian influenza has persisted all-year round Pictured: Turkeys run free inside a barn in Knutsford. The culling figures cover the whole of Europe as well as the UK, which has killed 3m chickens, turkey and ducks already BIRD FLU: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW What is it? Bird flu is the source of all human flus, as far as we know. It often passes through another animal, such as a pig, in the process of mutating and adapting to infect us. Wild birds are carriers, especially through migration. As they cluster together to breed, the virus spreads rapidly and is then carried to other parts of the globe. New strains tend to appear first in Asia, from where more than 60 species of shore birds, waders and waterfowl, including plovers, godwits and ducks, head off to Alaska to breed and mix with various migratory birds from the Americas. Others go west and infect European species. What strain is currently spreading? H5N1. So far the new virus has been detected in some 80million birds and poultry globally since September 2021 double the previous record the year before. Not only is the virus spreading at speed, it is also killing at an unprecedented level, leaving some experts to say this is the deadliest variant so far. Millions of chickens in the UK have been culled and last November our poultry industry was put into lockdown, heavily affecting the availability of free-range eggs. Can it infect people? Yes, but just 864 people have been infected with H5N1 globally since 2003 from 20 countries. The risk to people has been deemed 'low'. But people are strongly urged not to touch sick or dead birds because the virus is lethal, killing 53 per cent of people it does manage to infect. Advertisement The culling figures cover the whole of Europe as well as the UK, which has killed 3m chickens, turkey and ducks already. The report, from European health chiefs, goes up until September 9. Thirty-seven countries ranging from Norway's Svalbard islands to Ukraine have recorded cases. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the EU Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, which were behind the report, said the 'geographical extent of the outbreak is unprecedented'. There have been 161 cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in captive birds, compared to 26 cases in 2020/21. Wild birds, particularly terns and gulls, have also been decimated by avian flu. There have been 1,727 cases of avian flu in wild birds in the UK, in 406 locations and 59 bird species. The Department for the Environment (Defra) has declared Avian Influenza Prevention Zones in all of Norfolk, Suffolk and parts of Essex. In the latest outbreak, Defra said on Friday bird flu had been detected near Bury St Edmunds, and two locations in Breckland Norfolk. The UK's chief veterinary officer, Dr Christine Middlemiss said levels of the disease in wild birds was leading to the rise. She said: 'Unfortunately we expect the number of cases to continue to rise over the coming months as migratory birds return to the UK, bringing with them further risk of disease that can spread into our kept flocks.' The ECDC warns that bird flu, has 'the potential to severely affect public health' although in the current outbreak so far no human has yet been infected in western Europe. The ECDC said that despite the exceptionally large number of cases recently detected in poultry and birds as well as numerous transmission events of avian influenza to different mammal species, no human transmission has been observed in the EU/EEA in recent years. But worldwide, between January 2003 and 31 March 2022, there have been 863 cases of human infection with avian influenza A (H5N1) virus reported from 18 countries. Of these 455 cases were fatal. This map shows the parts England currently under extra biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of bird flu Britain is grappling with is biggest ever outbreak of avian influenza which has seen millions of domestic poultry being culled and thousands of wild birds, like this gannet, also killed by the disease This map shows bird flu outbreaks detected in poultry farms and backyard flocks since October last year. Triangles with black dots indicate the most recent cases This map shows the density of bird flu cases detected in wild birds, darker red areas indicate higher numbers of cases with black dots showing the most recent cases Poultry farmers and those who handle dead birds, like slaughterhouse workers, are deemed to be most at risk. Devon man Alan Gosling, 79, was forced to quarantine for three weeks after catching bird flu in the closing weeks of 2021. He eventually made a full recovery but was heartbroken after a flock of ducks he kept inside his house had to be culled after contracting the virus. A DEFRA spokesperson said the birds killed are a fraction of the 1billion consumed by the British public annually. They insisted there are 'no concerns' about Christmas meat supplies. Advertisement A hugely controversial research organization at the center of questions about Covid's origin was handed nearly $7million in taxpayer cash during the pandemic, DailyMail.com can reveal. Official records show EcoHealth Alliance has received seven grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) since June 2020 for research into animal-borne viruses in Asia and Africa. Four of those grants were handed to the non-profit after it was uncovered EcoHealth Alliance channeled funds to to a Chinese laboratory in Wuhan, the epicenter of the pandemic. It also collaborated on controversial virus-tinkering research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which some scientists fear led to the Covid crisis. Dr Peter Daszak, a British zoologist who was accused of trying to cover-up serious inquiry into the so-called lab leak theory, is listed as the project lead on the majority of the research programs. Tennessee Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn told DailyMail.com: 'EcoHealth Alliance has still not answered key questions about its role in the pandemic. 'They should be held to account and not be receiving taxpayers' dollars until a full investigation is complete.' The most recent NIH grant awarded to EchoHealth Alliance came on September 21. The $600,000 package will go towards studying Covid-like viruses in bats across Asia and Africa. That five-year experiment will investigate 'the potential for future bat coronavirus emergence', with scientists set to trawl caves in Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam in the hunt to prevent another viral crisis. Senator Joni Ernst, an Iowa Republican, told DailyMail.com: 'Giving taxpayer money to EcoHealth to study pandemic prevention is like paying a suspected arsonist to conduct fire safety inspections.' Dr Daszak is a close friend of the US' top Covid doctor Anthony Fauci and even thanked him for publicly downplaying theories that Covid may have been created in a lab. Official records show EcoHealth Alliance has received seven grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) since June 2020 for research into animal-borne viruses in Asia and Africa Dr Peter Daszak (pictured with Anthony Fauci), a British zoologist who was accused of trying to cover-up serious inquiry into so-called lab leak theory, is listed as the project lead on the majority of the research programs EcoHealth Alliance has been receiving federal research funding since 2002. DailyMail.com has approached the firm for comment. Dr Daszak, who has maintained the view that the coronavirus jumped to humans from animal reservoirs, has a checkered history when it comes to the kind of research that his critics argue helped pave the way for highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 to escape the safety of a lab. He has been slammed by Republicans in Congress for taking part in 'gain of function' research, a field of study that can make disease agents more transmissible or pathogenic. Those who believed there was a chance the virus escaped from the WIV were cast aside as fringe thinkers, in part due to Dr Daszak's influence in the community of epidemiologists and infectious disease experts. The Wuhan Institute of Virology, where biologists have collected thousands of coronavirus pathogens for research purposes, is believed by many to have been the birthplace of the coronavirus that caused a global pandemic. He and fellow infectious disease experts Ralph Baric and Linfa Wang circulated a statement that was later published in The Lancet in which 27 prominent scientists from nine countries to strongly condemned 'conspiracy theories suggesting that COVID-19 does not have a natural origin.' The Wuhan Institute of Virology specializes in the study of different types of coronaviruses - including the closest relatives of Covid Shi Zhengli - dubbed the Bat Lady for her work on bat coronaviruses - works with other researchers in the WIV in 2017 But Dr Daszak appeared to want to distance himself from the letter after a Freedom of Information Request revealed that he and his fellows 'should not sign this statement, so it has some distance from us and therefore doesn't work in a counterproductive way.' Dr Richard Horton, editor of The Lancet, said in December 2021 that it took 16 months to publish an official conflict of interest statement in which he revealed Peter Daszak had links to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Despite charges of having a conflict of interest, given that his organization had worked with the WIV on coronavirus research in the past, Dr Daszak was appointed to the World Health Organization's team charged with going to China to investigate the origin of the virus. The WHO dispelled those claims though, saying that 'all declared interests were assessed and found not to interfere with the independence and transparency of the work.' Officials in the Trump and Biden administrations have said the Chinese government worked to thwart investigations into the origins of the virus and hoodwinked WHO investigators when they arrived. Dr Daszak revealed in March 2021 that he and the team took China's word for it when officials there insisted that the virus could not have escaped from their lab. 'We met with them. We said, 'Do you audit the lab?' And they said, 'Annually.' 'Did you audit it after the outbreak?' 'Yes.' 'Was anything found?' 'No.' 'Do you test your staff?' 'Yes.' No one was ' Daszak said. In response to Lesley Stahl, who said he was taking the Chinese researcher's word for it, Daszak said, 'Well, what else can we do?' 'We asked them tough questions. They weren't vetted in advance. And the answers they gave, we found to be believable correct and convincing,' Daszak said. In April 2020, former President Donald Trump chose to axe Daszak's grant awarded in 2019 over unsubstantiated claims that the virus leaked from the Wuhan lab that employs a Chinese virologist who had been receiving funding from the grant. 'NIH got it right when it canceled the funding for the experiments EcoHealth Alliance was conducting with China's state-run Wuhan Institute,' Ernst said. She added, 'In addition to violating multiple federal laws, EcoHealth has still not turned over documents about these dangerous studies that NIH has requested on multiple occasions that could offer vital clues to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.' One of the most stringent deniers of the man-made hypothesis is British zoologist Dr Peter Daszak (pictured), who is known among friends as a 'funny northerner' but considered a potential orchestrator of the pandemic by advocates of the lab-leak theory The debate around the origins of Covid has been ongoing since the virus first began causing chaos in early 2020. Some top virologists believe the coronavirus spread to humans from an infected animal, potentially in a wet market in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Others think it leaked from a secretive laboratory in the same city. Whether or not it was deliberate or accidental is an even more contentious part of the 'lab leak' theory. One of the most stringent deniers of the man-made hypothesis is British zoologist Dr Peter Daszak, who is known among friends as a 'funny northerner' but considered a potential orchestrator of the pandemic by advocates of the lab-leak theory. He became renowned for his role in facilitating 'risky' coronavirus research in China through EcoHealth Alliance, the non-profit he is president of. The New York-based organisation has secured $60million (53million) of US Government funds for scientific research over the past decade. Some of this cash, it has emerged, has since ended up in the pocket of researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), the lab at the centre of lab leak claims. Some of this research involved manipulating Covid-like viruses. Now, it has been revealed that EcoHealth Alliance has gained another $650,000 (580,000) from the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) to trawl through caves in Southeast Asia looking for bats carrying coronaviruses, despite fears similar work sparked the pandemic. In a leaked email from 2020, Daszak appeared to express gratitude to Fauci for downplaying the theory that the Covid-19 was created in a lab in Wuhan, China Previously, Daszak's EcoHealth Alliance has used the Wuhan Institute of Virology in research, particularly in gain-of-function research in which organisms are genetically altered Outcry as British researcher is given ANOTHER US grant to investigate COVID - despite fears his initial work at Wuhan lab triggered pandemic US health officials have given a hugely controversial research organization another $650,000 (580k) grant to experiment on Covid-like viruses despite fears similar risky work may have actually sparked the pandemic. EcoHealth Alliance, run by British zoologist Peter Daszak, funded studies in Wuhan the Chinese city where the pandemic began on manipulated coronaviruses. Such research, known as 'gain of function', can see viruses deliberately engineered to become more dangerous to humans. EcoHealth Alliance's five-year experiment will investigate 'the potential for future bat coronavirus emergence' in Asia, with scientists set to trawl caves in Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam in the hunt to prevent another viral crisis. The grant was awarded last month by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), which is still ran by Dr Anthony Fauci. Dr Fauci is known to be close to Dr Daszak, who thanked the American Government's departing chief medical adviser for downplaying theories that Covid may have been created in a lab. EcoHealth Alliance is said to have received $60million (53.5m) in federal cash over the past decade. Some of this money was funneled straight to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Advertisement The new contract gives the green light to project leader Dr Daszak and his team to analyse the behaviour and environmental risk factors for coronaviruses to spillover into humans from animals. It warns that that part of the world has a 'high diversity of wildlife coronaviruses' and a large proportion of the population is regularly exposed to wildlife that could be infected. Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam are particularly high risk, according to the project details published by the US National Institutes of Health. Over the course of five years, the team will identify cases where people become infected with coronaviruses, assess the risk and drivers of community transmission and spread and test public health interventions to contain an outbreak. Scientists argue such research is vital to contain diseases like Covid. But others have raised alarm over its potential involvement in outbreaks. The latest contract puts the spotlight back on Dr Daszak, who hails from the mining town Dukinfield, on the outskirts of Manchester. The researcher, who grew up with a younger brother, Ukrainian father and Welsh mother, studied zoology at the University of Bangor in Wales and the University of East London. The expert in zoonosis the spread of viruses from animals to humans has authored more than 300 scientific papers over his career, which has spanned more than three decades, and seen him become friendly with Dr Anthony Fauci, chief medical advisor to the US President. Dr Daszak, who lives in New York with his wife Janet, joined EcoHealth formerly The Wildlife Trust in 2001. His early career focused on diseases spread by frogs. But he has also worked with researchers in China for 15 years, including Dr Shi Zhengli, a virologist at the WIV nicknamed 'Bat Woman'. EcoHealth, which originally focused on conservation, now works around the world to find out the origins of viruses, map where they have spread and analyse them to find out where the next outbreak could occur. Records show Dr Daszak raked in millions of dollars' worth of grants from US Government bodies on behalf of EcoHealth alliance and was paid $354,000 (314,000) in 2019. This funding was often dished out to other laboratories, including the WIV, to conduct research in mines to examine bat coronaviruses. The partnership saw researchers sample thousands of bats and determine that Sars originated in horseshoe bats, which are common in southern and central China and traded in wet markets. And two years before Covid emerged, Dr Daszak proposed working with WIV scientists to alter coronaviruses and release them into bats as part of a plan to inoculate them against the virus. Records show Dr Daszak raked in millions of dollars' worth of grants from US Government bodies on behalf of EcoHealth alliance and was paid $354,000 (314,000) in 2019. This funding was often dished out to other laboratories, including the WIV, to conduct research in mines to examine bat coronaviruses. Pictured: Peter Daszak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, 2020 Researchers asked the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa) for $14.2million (12.6million) cash to fund the project. But it turned the proposal down over concerns it would put 'local communities at risk'. However, separate EcoHealth Alliance projects got the go-ahead. But it wasn't until the pandemic hit that Dr Daszak found himself in the spotlight. From the early days of the Covid crisis, he was a staunch denier that the virus could have leaked from a lab, setting out his views in news publications and the scientific journal The Lancet. One opinion piece he published in The Guardian is titled 'Ignore the conspiracy theories: scientists know Covid-19 wasn't created in a lab'. He called suggestions that the virus was manmade 'the latest chapter in the tale of blame, misinformation and finger-pointing'. Seven months later, in January 2021, Dr Daszak joined the World Health Organization (WHO) team sent to Wuhan to investigate the origins of the virus. A group of 17 inernational experts and 17 Chinese scientists conducted a 28-day study on the origins of the virus in Wuhan, China. The group's report, published in March 2021, concluded that it was 'extremely unlikely' that the virus originated in a laboratory. But four months after the the initial whitewashed report, the researchers, including Dr Daszak, asked for scientists to go back and conduct a more thorough investigation. The zoologist came under fire after it emerged that he had a working relationship with Dr Zhengli, one of the very scientists whose work he was tasked with investigating. EcoHealth Alliance has given $600,000 to her lab's research to investigate the risk posed by coronaviruses being spread from bats. Dr Daszak defended the connection, arguing that the Covid origins probe should involve those who know the most about coronaviruses in China. He also chaired a group of scientists probing Covid's origins for the medical journal The Lancet but stepped down when his link with Chinese virus research was revealed. A Vanity Fair in March set out that Dr Daszak's EcoHealth Alliance was a 'virus-hunting profit' at the centre of the lab-leak theory. The lengthy report, based on dozens of interviews and more than 100,000 leaked internal documents, detailed how EcoHealth operated in a world of 'murky grant agreements, flimsy oversight, and the pursuit of government funds for scientific advancement, in part by pitching research of steeply escalating risk'. How concerned should we be about the potential threat to our health this winter, with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warning last week that we face the prospect of a twindemic of flu and Covid-19 over the coming months? Worse, thousands of people could be at risk of catching both infections simultaneously a combination that poses a serious risk to our health, the government agency warns. The fear is that the twindemic would not only fill our hospitals, but having both infections at the same time can also increase the risk of either proving fatal. Previous warnings of a possible two-in-one outbreak known as flurona failed to materialise, but over the past two years Covid measures, such as reduced socialising and compulsory mask-wearing in indoor public spaces, kept the lid on flu infections, even if cases of Omicron (the milder but highly virulent Covid strain) surged. Worse, thousands of people could be at risk of catching both infections simultaneously a combination that poses a serious risk to our health, the government agency warns Last winter, for example, hospitalisations for flu in England were just 15 per cent of what is seen in a normal year. The UKHSA says reduced exposure to flu viruses in recent winters means fewer of us will have natural immunity to those circulating this year. Whats more, the main flu virus in circulation this winter is H3N2, a strain with a reputation for putting more people in intensive care or, worse, proving fatal. And its thought the virus will be able to take advantage of the freedom of movement that most of us now enjoy just as a new wave of Covid also hits. Professor Andrew Easton, a virologist at the University of Warwick, told Good Health that the twindemic alert must be heeded, even though many of us feel that the misery of the pandemic is in the past. Those most at risk the elderly and those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, asthma or diabetes, which leave them more vulnerable to complications from viral infections should take particular care. Professor Easton warns that although having had flu or a vaccine in the past can prime the immune system, the main flu virus in circulation constantly changes as a result of antigenic drift, where it swaps genes between strains to create variants that can dodge this immunity. It takes about three years for the virus to acquire enough change for immunity to wane completely, he explains. So if you missed a year either because you werent infected or vaccinated your chances of being more ill are significantly increased. This antigenic drift is why new flu vaccines have to be manufactured every year, tailored to suit the particular strain thats doing the rounds. This is determined by which flu strains have been dominant in the winter in the Southern hemisphere. This years flu cases in Australia, where H3N2 was the dominant strain, were above average and peaked much earlier than usual. The fear is that the twindemic would not only fill our hospitals, but having both infections at the same time can also increase the risk of either proving fatal H3N2 seems to lead to more severe disease, especially in the most vulnerable, says Professor Easton. Its probably due to a complex interaction between different viral genes that may suppress elements of the immune system reaction. This years World Health Organisation-approved vaccine is designed to protect against H3N2, but it is only 60 per cent effective due to mutations that occur in the virus between the point where the WHO agrees the strains to be included and the flu season arriving here. Meanwhile, there are signs that a new wave of Covid infections is already under way, with hospital admissions in England rising to more than 7,000 in the seven days up to September 28 37 per cent higher than the previous week. All the modelling suggests there will be a winter surge of Covid and flu, but no one knows how big it will be, says Professor Peter Openshaw, an immunologist at Imperial College London. The main concern is that people might get both at once. A 2021 UK study of 20,000 otherwise healthy people, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, found that those struck by Covid and flu at the same time were nearly twice as likely to die as those who caught Covid alone. The researchers warned: Coinfection could have a significant impact on morbidity, mortality and demand for NHS services. Those unlucky enough to catch both could become very ill, very quickly, warns Professor Easton. If you have a respiratory infection and get another one on top of it, thats likely to be much more damaging especially in the very vulnerable groups, he says. A double infection can overwhelm the respiratory system and increase the chance of life-threatening complications such as pneumonia. You wont necessarily be twice as ill, but it will still be serious and you would probably feel pretty bad, says Professor Easton. Separately, leading UK virology experts fear this potential double-whammy could be a major problem for the NHS. I am concerned about a possible twindemic, says Dr Simon Clarke, an associate professor in cellular microbiology at the University of Reading. He fears that the NHS could be in for a fairly torrid time this winter. Apart from testing with lateral flow tests for Covid, it can be difficult to tell if someone has both infections. Unlike early Covid variants (where the main symptoms were cough, fever and loss of smell or taste), Omicron symptoms are more flu-like runny nose, headache, sneezing, sore throat and fatigue. The symptoms can be quite similar and, unfortunately, if you get both at the same time, you have a higher chance of ending up in intensive care or dying, says Professor Openshaw. That is why vaccines are essential and, remember, it takes up to three weeks for flu and Covid vaccines to be fully effective, so dont delay. As well as vaccines, some of Britains leading infectious disease experts are already taking steps to protect themselves. I am sticking with masks in crowded places, says Professor Openshaw. I was at a conference recently where there were lots of new data showing they work [in reducing transmission]. But they must be high-grade masks i.e. N95 masks [the ones that look like beaks] and tight-fitting. Professor Easton says he and his family still wear masks in public places such as supermarkets. The evidence shows that wearing masks reduces the spread of infections and they work just as well for flu as for Covid, he says. And Daniel Altmann, a professor of immunology at Imperial College London, will continue to wear masks on public transport and also carry out frequent lateral flow tests for Covid. He warns: There has been a rather unhelpful narrative that the pandemic has been beaten. Yet Covid cases are rising, with the new BA.5 strain breaking through and in other parts of the world, such as the U.S., even worse variants taking over. So I will continue to take precautions. Who should (and shouldnt) have both jabs together With warnings that were now facing a twindemic of Covid and influenza, its vital that those most susceptible to serious illness from these viruses come forward for vaccines in order to protect themselves and those around them, says Steve Russell, NHS director for vaccinations and screening. Around 33 million people in England (adults over the age of 50 and those who are in at risk groups) will be eligible for a free flu jab this autumn; 26 million are eligible for a further Covid booster (the over 50s, frontline care workers, care home residents and patients who are clinically vulnerable). While the jabs for flu and Covid are separate, many people may be offered both at the same time but does it make sense to do this if your local health centre offers it? Or is it more prudent to have them separately, to avoid a double dose of side-effects? From an immunological point of view, its equally safe and effective whether you have both jabs together or separately, says Ian Jones, a professor of virology at Reading University. This was confirmed by a study of nearly 700 people which was published in the Lancet. Theres no evidence that having both vaccines at the same time decreases the benefit of either, says Daniela Ferreira, a professor of vaccinology at the University of Oxford. In the study, roughly half the volunteers, who included pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems, had the flu vaccine and the Covid booster at the same time and the reactions in the double-jabbed group were largely mild or moderate. A small proportion experienced a more severe reaction: 5 per cent in the double-jabbed group compared with 3 per cent in the other groups. Professor Jones believes that people should have both vaccinations at the same time, if offered, as its less work for both vaccine-givers and members of the public. Having both jabs at the same time may also mean that discomfort or side-effects are limited to one occasion and one arm (ideally the arm least used), he adds. But Professor Ferreira suggests that if youve previously suffered side-effects, such as soreness, and are having both at the same time, it is worth having one in each arm. Pharmacist Sultan Dajani, who is now administering 600 Covid vaccinations and 200 flu jabs a week near Southampton, goes further. Older people and those with compromised immune systems such as cancer patients may be more prone to side-effects, such as tiredness for a day or two if they have both jabs at the same time, he told Good Health. Although its not possible to say you would get double the side-effects with two vaccines at the same time, it will increase your potential for side-effects. There are no official guidelines on how long to leave between jabs, but Sultan Dajani believes its prudent to allow at least a week between the two vaccines. Judith Keeling Advertisement 'It's full of natural exotic leather...but not whale penis.' When a car manufacturer is giving you details about its latest model, a line like this is guaranteed to grab your attention. It's just one of a number of unfathomable explanations for features in the new vehicle from Latvian tank-maker Dartz Motorz, which is without question the most bonkers car you could ever buy today. Prices for the latest limited-edition Prombron SUV start from 750,000 (660,000), though if you want your gold-plated utility vehicle to be fully armoured you will need to fork out at least 1.05million (900,000). Is this the craziest car on the planet? Latvian tank-maker Dartz Motorz has revealed its limited edition Prombron The Dictator Aladeen Edition MMXXII - an armoured SUV that can withstand rifle fire and explosions...but maybe not the WWF... The car's full name [take a deep breath] is the Dartz Motorz Prombron The Dictator Aladeen Edition MMXXII. It doesn't roll off the tongue, does it? As you might have guessed from the extensive nameplate, this crazy vehicle has links to an equally controversial film. Dartz originally created three 'Aladeen Edition' SUVs for 2012 movie The Dictator starring Sasha Baron Cohen as Admiral General Aladeen, the ruler of the fictional Republic of Wadiya in the contentious political satire hit. The original cars were commissioned by producers and created by Dartz's in-house 'Movie Vehicle Department', which has also built one-off models for 2013 film Another Day to Die Hard and 2014's The November Man featuring Pierce Brosnan. The trio of motors made for The Dictator proved such a success [says the Latvian brand] that it decided to build another seven for public sale, each costing in the region of 500,000. The final two examples were sold only last year, one to the highest bidder at the esteemed Amfar Charity auction during the 2021 Cannes Film Festival. Underneath the unique gold-plated bodywork - which even features Wadiyan Badges and flag motifs - is a 170k Mercedes Maybach GLS limo. It uses the German luxury SUV's 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, though tuned to develop a massive 800bhp Dartz originally created three 'Aladeen Edition' SUVs for 2012 movie The Dictator starring Sasha Baron Cohen as Admiral General Aladeen, the ruler of the fictional Republic of Wadiya in the contentious political satire film The trio of motors made for The Dictator proved such a success - says the Latvian brand - that it decided to build another seven for public sale, each costing in the region of 500,000 To celebrate the final car changing hands and to mark the 10-year anniversary of the movie - which premiered at the Royal Albert Hall in May 2012 with Cohen in the Aladeen role arriving in his Lamborghini on the back of a tow truck having been clamped 'while shopping at British Home Stores' - Dartz Motorz is going to build another ten examples of its long-named successor. Like the original, it is based on the armoured Prombron Iron Diamonds SUV, which Kanye West reportedly bought two of in 2013 at a total cost of $2.4million. Underneath the unique gold-plated bodywork - which even features Wadiyan Badges and flag motifs - is a 170,000 Mercedes Maybach GLS limo. It uses the German luxury SUV's 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, though tuned to develop a massive 800bhp and 1,000Nm of torque. Dartz says it can accelerate from a standstill to 62mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 174mph. It needs this level of performance as the car's target audience is the most famous people on the planet - those who need around-the-clock protection and bodyguards. With just the bulletproof glass option, the vehicle's weight is 2.2 tonnes. Fully-armoured versions are a hefty 3.1 tonnes, which will have a big impact on that sub-four-second zero-to-62mph time On the back of the film success, Dartz Motorz built seven examples of the armoured SUV for customers. The final two examples sold only last year, one to the highest bidder at the esteemed Amfar Charity auction during the 2021 Cannes Film Festival (pictured) As standard, all 10 cars have carbon-kevlar body panels and 'BR2' grade bullet-resistant glass. However, for an extra 300,000 (265,000) you can upgrade yours to 'STANAG' Level 2 protection - STANAG being the official protection levels light armoured vehicles set out by NATO The most armoured example adds extra blast-proof shielding that will stop AK47 rounds at a range of 30 metres, grenade and mine explosions and other heavy artillery fire Having produced armoured vehicles in the past for Vladimir Lenin, Leon Trotsky and Tsar Nicolas, Dartz offers a number of different protection options to at-risk customers who want to get their hands on the new limited edition SUV. As standard, all 10 cars have carbon-kevlar body panels and 'BR2' grade bullet-resistant glass. Three original SUVs were commissioned for 2012 movie The Dictator, starring Sasha Baron Cohen (pictured) However, for an extra 300,000 (265,000) you can upgrade yours to 'STANAG' Level 2 protection - STANAG being the official protection levels for light armoured vehicles set out by NATO. This adds extra blast-proof shielding that will stop armour-piecing AK47 rounds at a range of 30 metres, grenade attacks, mine explosions and other heavy artillery fire. Base cars get a fingerprint-operated safe to keep your hand gun, and also a separate storage area for your expensive cigars and another for your make-up. A number of optional features are available at an extra cost, including a safe to keep an AK47, your own custom bulletproof helmet and even a compartment for a sword. With just the bulletproof glass option, the vehicle's weight is 2.2 tonnes. Fully-armoured versions are a hefty 3.1 tonnes, which will have a big impact on that sub-four-second zero-to-62mph time. Inside is extremely lavish decor, supplemented by panels made from a choice of 550 different types of wood and buttons that are fabricated from genuine gold, so the Latvian brand claims. The instrument clusters are traditional analogue gauges. Dartz's spokesperson makes it abundantly clear that there is no place for digital screens here, stating: 'f*ck LCD'. Finally, if you hand over a little extra cash, Dartz will provide a 'bulletproof umbrella made from alligator or python skin', with the brand seemingly not learning from previous encounters with activists who firmly objected to the use of rare animal parts in its lavish cars. Base cars get a fingerprint-operated safe to keep your hand gun (pictured), and also a separate storage area for your expensive cigars and another for your make-up The car even made an appearance at red carpet premieres when the film launched in May 2012. Seen here arriving at the Royal Albert Hall in London A number of optional features are available at an extra cost, including a safe to keep an AK47, your own custom bulletproof helmet and even a compartment for a sword Dartz landed itself in hot water in 2009 when it announced its original Prombron luxury SUV had seats upholstered in leather pulled from whale foreskin. Greenpeace, WWF and Pamela Anderson objected to the strange use of the animal product In 2009, the car-making company was called out by Greenpeace, the World Wildlife Fund, and even Pamela Anderson after announcing that the Prombron armoured truck's seats were upholstered in leather pulled from whale foreskin. It forced Dartz into dropping the stomach-churning feature from the car, announcing in a typically mixed up statement in November that year: 'We just looking for most expensive products for this car - and that's why we choosed whale penis leathure when we checked it is most of most. 'After wave of protest we realised our mistake and make a decision not to use natural leathure at all. We will focus on world most advanced nanotechnologies to achieve interior highest quality using artificial materials which also was never used for cars. 'We want to tell our hello to all whales: "Our Sea Brothers! We all know that earth are stand on three whales - we will keep You live! We don't Earth fall down to Ocean!"' While Dartz says it currently only plans to produce ten examples of the Prombron The Dictator Aladeen Edition MMXXII, it says it will build more if customers want them. We can already hear you rustling around for your chequebooks... Dartz says the hulking SUV can accelerate from a standstill to 62mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 174mph, though adding the extra armour protection will have a big impact on how fast it shifts There's a number of optional extras and choices to customise your Dartz Prombron...but each one has to be finished in gold Exclusive images show one of the original Dartz Prombron The Dictator Aladeen Edition vehicles produced by the company's specialist movie department on set for the 2012 film The majority of motorists are unaware of illegal ghost broking, despite more than 55,000 fraudulent motor insurance applications made in the last year. The social media scam is on the rise, with more than twice as many cases reported in the past 12 months than previously detected - and experts are concerned it could become increasingly prevalent during the cost-of-living crunch. Victims to these scams lose out on average almost 2,000 and could face criminal charges - and cases have more than doubled in the last year. The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) says ghost brokers are 'rife on social media', leaving victims penniless, without a vehicle and at risk of criminal charges as well as being a major cyber threat and costing the economy millions. Ghost broking is on the rise. What is it? How does it work? And what are the implications of falling victim to the scam? We explain all What is a 'Ghost Broker'? A ghost broker is a fraudster who pretends to be a genuine insurance broker, typically on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook and Instagram, in order to sell fake car insurance. Scam artists posing as brokers typically sell victims a policy at a dramatically reduced price, which is attractive to younger and new drivers who face the highest insurance prices. The IFB's latest investigation - which was conducted in partnership with insurers and UK police - discovered that over 55,000 fraudulent motor insurance applications have been made in the past 12 months. Last year, insurers collectively reported more than 21,000 policies that could be connected to the scam, meaning cases are more than doubling each year. Over 1billion in fraudulent insurance applications are detected each year, based on annual figures released by the Association of British Insurers (ABI). How does ghost broking work? Ghost brokers buy policies from legitimate insurance companies using false information, then doctor them before offering them on the cheap to customers. It often involves forged insurance paperwork, but can commonly involve selling victims 'real' policies, but changing some key details, such as their address or claims record - ultimately invalidating the insurance. The fake policy documents will be modified and forged to look like they have been issued by an insurer to dupe drivers into thinking they are genuine. Anyone who falls for the scam will not be insured, and therefore face serious consequences. The Insurance Fraud Bureau's latest investigation discovered that over 55,000 fraudulent motor insurance applications have been made by ghost brokers in the past 12 months What can happen if you fall for a ghost broking scam? The average ghost broking scam is said to have cost victims thousands of pounds in 2021, with the typical victim losing out on 1,950, according to a recent report by Which?. Because drivers who fall for the scam are unwittingly not insured, they can face the same level of punishment as someone who actively drives without cover. Driving without cover will land them with a minimum fixed penalty of 300 and six points, and can even result in court proceedings where unlimited fines and a driving ban can be issued, putting a criminal conviction on your record. It can also result in your car being seized and even crushed by the police. To get the vehicle back you will need to pay a fee of at least 150 to have it released - and then have to fork out for valid insurance. If you're involved in an accident and you don't have insurance, you could be liable to cover the full cost of any injuries or damage sustained by the other party. Ghost brokers also pose a serious cyber threat as they steal personal information in order to take out policies under the names of individuals such as experienced older drivers who usually have cheaper insurance in order to forge and sell on policies in other peoples names. A ghost broker is a fraudster who pretends to be a genuine insurance broker, typically on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook and Instagram, in order to sell fake cover Cost-of-living crisis could spark a rise in ghost broking With energy bills on the rise, food becoming more expensive and mortgage rates escalating, Britain is very much in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. And the IFB says this is a ripe time for ghost brokers to strike, as they target hard-up people looking to reduce their costs. The bureau is especially concerned about the scam because very few people are aware that it even exists and could see more than four in five drivers falling for the false ads on social media. Exclusive YouGov research commissioned by the IFB revealed that only one in six people (17 per cent) are currently aware of ghost broking scams, despite its prevalence on popular sites like Facebook and Instagram. 'As the cost of living soars, there are concerns that the number of ghost broking victims will rise fast unless more is done to alert people to signs of the scam,' the IFB warned. Investigation into ghost brokers on social media In May, Which? searched on social media platforms for profiles and pages that showed signs of ghost brokers offering 'cheap car insurance' on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Of the almost 50 profiles that matched Which?'s search on Instagram, more than half appeared to be offering quotes or cover to UK drivers, but showed no signs of being authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. One Instagram profile was also found boasting it could save customers 'up to 50 per cent' on their premium it also offered 'NCB (no-claims bonus) documents' and 'speeding ticket removal'. It had 45,900 followers - more than the five biggest insurers combined - and claimed to have 'over six years experience in [its] field', and has since been taken down by Instagram after being flagged as a scam. On Facebook, 14 per cent of profiles were dubious, while only four per cent were flagged as suspect on the video streaming platform, TikTok. Over 500 cases of ghost broking with losses totalling 1million were reported to Action Fraud in 2021. It today (3 October) launched an awareness campaign to educate young drivers who, according to its investigation, are most likely to fall victim to the scam to alert them on how to spot the signs of a fake motor insurance deal and how serious the consequences can be. Ursula Jallow, director at the IFB, said ghost broking scams are now 'rife' on social media. 'Not only do ghost brokers leave victims penniless, without a vehicle and at risk of criminal charges, but these fraudsters are a cyber threat and cost the economy millions. Jallow commented: 'In these hard economic times its crucial for drivers to spot the signs of ghost broking scams' and added 'anyone with evidence of an insurance scam to report it to us straight away'. Detective Chief Inspector Tom Hill, at City of London Polices Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), said: 'Whilst we continue to disrupt ghost brokers by cutting off their online resources, we urge the public to look out for the signs that point to a fraudulent policy. 'A cheap offer may be more enticing now than ever as we head into a tough economic climate, but a bogus policy will end up costing you far more in the long run. 'Not only do social media platforms give fraudsters a front to hide behind, but they also provide a huge audience of potential victims to target. 'Over the past year, every report of Ghost Broking to Action Fraud has been cyber-enabled, proving that it really is important to be wary of too-good-to-be-true deals online. These reports have amounted to 1.5 million worth of losses. 'We hope that this campaign will remind people to complete the relevant checks before parting with their hard-earned money.' The rise in detected application fraud is the result of insurers increasing efforts with How to spot signs of a ghost broking scam Ghost brokers tend to offer up-front fixed prices without any form of assessment, even though motor insurance is priced based on the risk of the information provided by the policyholder. However, in a bid to appear more genuine, other scammers will carry out mock quotes to make victims believe the insurance deal is being tailored to them, but the price offered will still be unrealistically cheap. Another sign of ghost broking is pressuring potential victims to communicate with the fraudsters via end-to-end encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp. This is to keep illegal dealings in private. They may also boast that the insurance policy is legitimate because it appears on the Motor Insurance Database (MID), whilst in reality this is only because they have taken out a policy using false information which makes it entirely invalid. How can I check for a ghost broker? Consumers should conduct background checks with the FCA to avoid scam insurance brokers selling their services on social media The IFB says there are checks motorists can carry out to see if an online broker is genuine or not. This means searching for them on a number of different member databases: All genuine insurance brokers are registered with the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA). Insurance advisors are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Motor insurers are members of the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB). Why are social media platforms not stopping ghost brokers? As part of a Which? investigation into ghost broking earlier this year, it tested how social media platforms are vetting unregulated insurance middlemen by setting up six accounts on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram under the premise that they were car insurance brokers. The two profiles on Facebook were taken down by the site within a few days, as was one Instagram profile linked to an email containing the word 'ghostbrokerscammer'. However, the second Instagram profile, stayed up for 35 days, as did the two TikTok profiles, before Which? removed them. Experts are arguing for social media companies to have stronger processes in place to protect consumers from fraudulent pages offering financial services, suggesting platforms should be required to prevent this kind of activity. Jenny Ross, editor of Which? Money, called on the Government to amend the Online Safety Bill to ensure its definition of fraud does not allow scammers to slip through the net. She said: 'Ghost broking is a really nasty kind of fraud, where scammers operate by stealth and typically take advantage of those who feel locked out of, or bewildered by, the car insurance market. 'Social media sites must do much more to crack down on car insurance scammers that are infiltrating their sites and harming consumers, and should address these problems now, ahead of the Online Safety Bill becoming law. 'The Online Safety Bill should require platforms to tackle this type of fraudulent content. 'The Government must ensure this happens by amending the Bill so that its definition of fraud does not allow some scammers to slip through the net and guaranteeing Ofcom is ready to enforce these new laws when they come into force.' A TikTok spokesperson responded to the Which? investigation. They said: 'Our Community Guidelines make clear that we do not tolerate any kind of fraud or scams on TikTok and we will continue to take an aggressive approach to removing this kind of content.' How to report insurance fraud Anyone who thinks they have evidence of an insurance scam such as ghost broking, can report this confidentially to the insurance industry via IFBs Cheatline online or via its phoneline (powered by CrimeStoppers) at 0800 422 0421. Ghost Broking can also be reported to the police via Action Fraud. It launches in the UK this week with prices starting from 4 a month It listed in New York in 2020 and is valued at more than $1bn Lemonade aims to disrupt the insurance industry with its AI bots When you think of the insurance industry, digital disruption is probably one of the last things that comes to mind. The UK insurance industry is the largest in Europe, and the fourth largest in the world, managing almost 1.7trillion, according to figures from the Association of British Insurers. But it has largely been dominated by long-established companies. Where banks have been pushed to modernise in the image of newcomers such as Monzo and Starling, and pensions have been pulled into the 21st century by the likes of PensionBee, insurance has remained largely untouched. New entrant: Co-founders Shai Wininger (left) and Daniel Schreiber had no experience in the insurance industry before launching Lemonade Now an American-listed company wants to take on the big beasts and shake up the way Britons buy their home, life, motor and pet insurance. Lemonade launches in the UK this week, and wants to corner the market for younger people buying their first insurance policies with its competitive pricing and AI bots. It is going into partnership with Aviva to launch its home contents insurance, which includes worldwide coverage for individual personal items of up to 2,000 each and total coverage of up to 100,000. Chief executive Daniel Schreiber tells This Is Money why he thinks New York-based Lemonade brings something new to the insurance market. What is Lemonade and how long has it been around? Where almost all adults in the UK use banks in some way almost daily, insurance is often overlooked. Just last week the Financial Conduct Authority issued a letter to insurance bosses amid fears people will cancel their policies during the cost-of-living crisis. The insurance market is huge - it constitutes 11 per cent of GDP worldwide- but it has remained largely unchanged. A PwC report on the insurance market said there was 'untapped potential particularly when compared to some of the dramatic changes seen in the banking industry in the past three to five years.' The report continued: 'There is a clear need for more innovation in the insurance industry, driven by increasingly demanding consumers, struggling legacy systems, and an efficient use of ever more available data.' London-based Marshmallow, set up by twin brothers Alexander and Oliver Kent-Braham, has been a rare example of a firm that is doing things differently. It develops products using data, aiming to provide more fairly-priced insurance to cover non-UK nationals. Last year it reached a valuation of more than $1billion. Other attempts by so-called 'insurtechs' to penetrate the market have largely passed the industry by, while the more established players battle legacy systems and the inefficient use of data. Daniel Schreiber and Shai Wininger launched Lemonade after realising just how badly insurance had lagged behind. 'Many of the insurance companies we know today were founded in the era of the horse-drawn carriage - and you just wouldn't build a company for today's world, the way you did back then' says Schreiber. 'Any industry that is huge, unchanged and unloved is ripe for disruption.' In 2016 Lemonade launched its flagship renters insurance in the US, where it is now among the top products in the market. It quietly built up a strong base of investors and listed on the New York Stock Exchange during the pandemic, in July 2020. It has since expanded its product range to include pet health, car and term life insurance in the US, while also launching in the Netherlands and in France. Last November it also announced it would buy car insurance brand Metromile. Unlike other tech stocks, shares in Lemonade rallied in August after strong second-quarter earnings as it continued to grow revenue and improve its profitability outlook. Digital disruptor: Lemonade's sign-up and claims process is handled online 'A tech company doing insurance' Unlike Anne Boden of challenger bank Starling or Tom Blomfield of Monzo, who spent years working in the finance space, Schreiber and Wininger had little experience of the insurance industry. Instead they built their careers in the tech and software space, and say they still see Lemonade as a tech company first and foremost. Schreiber says: 'We self-describe as a tech company doing insurance, and not the other way around, even though we are a fully regulated insurance carrier. 'As an insurance company powered by AI and social impact, we can displace insurance powered by piles of paperwork and phone calls with an insurance product that is customer-centric. 'The state of affairs has gone unchallenged for far too long. Entrepreneurs were put off by the voodoo surrounding the complex regulation and capital requirements, but that is now changing. 'So companies like Lemonade are standing up their own regulated entities, writing on their own paper, developing their own tech, and controlling all aspects of the experience.' Low cost, 'sustainability' and AI bots attract under-35s Like other disruptors, Lemonade aims to keep costs as low as possible for its customers with prices starting from 4. As a result, the sign up and claims processes are largely handled by artificial intelligence bots, rather than a real person on the end of the phone. Lemonade customers speak to the Lemonade bot 'AI Maya', receive a quote, sign up, and add coverage. Its other bot - 'AI Jim' - is available 24/7 and handles claims allowing Lemonade to pay out in seconds. By using this kind of tech, Lemonade hopes to reach new types of customers and has so far successfully captured a younger demographic. Approximately 70 per cent of its customers are under the age of 35, with about 90 per cent being first-time insurance buyers. They hope to further solidify their hold of this demographic with its commitment to social impact, something Schreiber thinks is particularly attractive to younger demographics. As part of its claim to be an insurance company 'built for the 21st century' Lemonade, which received its B Corp certification in May 2016, has made sure its business model is sustainable as possible. Instead of pocketing all of its unclaimed premiums, a lot of the 'leftovers' are donated to charities the customer chooses. This altruistic approach is being spearheaded by the B Corp movement. We have profiled a number of UK B Corps as part of our B Corp series. But in a cost-of-living crisis, as people reevaluate their outgoings, will people care if their insurance company is sustainable if they can get a better deal elsewhere? 'Millennials and subsequent generations are the most sustainably-conscious customers to date and prefer to support companies that support a sustainability approach,' says Schreiber. 'Regardless, being powered by AI provides fairer pricing, faster response and lower costs. Big data allows more precise pricing, and automation slashes costs while improving service.' If Lemonade can really deliver the sustainability, good service and low prices it promises, it might just be on to a winner. A start-up challenger bank which aimed to disrupt the small business lending market has thrown in the towel after failing to raise cash to keep it afloat. Bank North was trying to find 30m to secure a full banking licence from the Bank of England, which would have allowed it to take deposits from retail savers. But in a letter to shareholders over the weekend, seen by the Daily Mail, the stricken bank's chairman Ron Emerson said it had been 'unable to close this critical capital raise within the necessary timeline'. Throwing in the towel: Bank North was trying to find 30m to secure a full banking licence from the Bank of England 'It is therefore with great regret that I have to inform you that the board of Bank North has decided to initiate a solvent wind-down of the bank, with immediate effect,' Emerson added. Bank North is in talks with an unnamed third party to sell its 17m loan book and transfer its Manchester-based lending team about a third of its 60 staff. A deal could be done in the next few weeks but Emerson cautioned: 'Completion of this transaction is critical to ensuring a solvent wind-down, where the priority will be to ensure full payment of our creditors, including staff, and that all outstanding liabilities are paid.' Whatever the outcome, the bank will hand back its licence to the Prudential Regulatory Authority, which approves new banks. The news is another headache for beleaguered Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey, who is already battling to shore up confidence in the mortgage, pensions and currency markets amid ongoing turmoil. It is also a blow to the Government's 'levelling up' agenda as Bank North focused on plugging a gap in the regional lending market. Founded in 2018, the 'fintech-enabled' start-up specialised in making loans to local small businesses of between 500,000 and 5m. It began lending to them a year ago after acquiring a restricted banking licence. Emerson, a former chairman of the state-backed British Business Bank, blamed 'a gathering storm of economic uncertainty over the past six months' for Bank North's failure. Latest accounts show it lost 1.9m in the nine months to March 2021. The Bank of England declined to comment. Vodafone and Three are planning a tie-up that would create Britains biggest mobile supplier with more than 27m customers. The telecom firms are in discussions about combining their UK businesses in a deal that could be agreed by the end of the year. Vodafone confirmed the plans after a Sky News report suggested talks have intensified in recent weeks. Mobile merger: Vodafone and Three are in discussions about combining their UK businesses in a deal would create Britains biggest mobile supplier with more than 27m customers The FTSE 100 giant said it would have a controlling 51 per cent stake in the combined business, while Threes owner, Hong Kong conglomerate CK Hutchison, would own the rest. Vodafone is under pressure from investors including French tycoon Xavier Niel and activist Cevian Capital, which earlier this year took a stake and is pushing for the business to strike more deals in its markets and simplify its structure. The mobile operators chief executive Nick Read has also stated a desire to pursue mergers in markets he deemed to be suffering from excessive competition, including the UK. Read is under pressure to revive Vodafones lagging share price performance. It has fallen by around a fifth since he took over in 2018. Shares rose 2.6 per cent, or 2.6p, to 103.72p yesterday. The deal would see Vodafone and Three, the third and fourth biggest operators, leapfrog EE and Virgin Media O2, formed through a merger last year. EE has 20m customers in the UK while Virgin Media O2 has 24m. If agreed, the tie-up will almost certainly face scrutiny from the competition watchdog and Ofcom, the industry regulator. But Vodafone said without the merger neither company would have the necessary scale to invest in the rollout of 5G a priority for the Government. A spokesman said: The conditions to ensure thriving competition in the market need to be nurtured, otherwise the UK is at risk of losing the opportunity to be a 5G leader. The company cited an Ofcom report describing the two operators as sub-scale and unable to reap the rewards of investing in the costly technology. Rivals: The deal would see Vodafone and Three, the third and fourth biggest operators, leapfrog EE and Virgin Media O2, formed through a merger last year Vodafone said the combined business would support the UKs 5G rollout, expanding internet access to rural communities and small businesses. It added that the business would challenge Virgin Media O2 and EE, offering a third, reliable, high-quality network. A source close to the deal said the firms are optimistic about a potential Ofcom probe, but getting approval from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) would be a nightmare. An investigation by the watchdog would likely focus on whether the merger would let Vodafone and Three push up prices for customers. But the firms believe a tie-up would let them spread the huge cost of running their mobile network leading to lower costs for users. The CMA previously raised concerns about a mooted tie-up between Three and O2, which was eventually blocked by the European Commission. Paolo Pescatore, a telecoms analyst at PP Foresight, said the biggest barrier will be getting CMA and Ofcom approval. But he warned that even if the deal is successful there is no silver bullet that will turn around the fortunes of both firms. Thousands of cannabis adverts with a discount code have been 'flyposted' on London's underground and have appeared on a billboard in east London, with the dealer behind the campaign claiming that he is selling '50,000 worth of cannabis a week'. Have you seen adverts for Dispenseroo? Email jessica.warren@mailonline.co.uk Advertisement Dispenseroo, a cannabis delivery service with similar branding to Deliveroo, was 'flyposting' on the tube network, having placed 2,500 paper adverts for its services in carriages. And last week, an illuminated billboard at Box Park Wembley was seen promoting the company with a new discount code. The founder, who describes himself as a Londoner in his 20s, revealed that Dispenseroo is generating around '50,000' a week in sales, following the flyposting guerrilla marketing campaign which lasted for three weeks. He said that public response to the first campaign was 'great' and wants sales to rise to '500,000 a week' by the end of 2022. He added that adverts for digital billboards and vending machines are being planned, with one advert for the company spotted last week at Box Park. The illuminated advert included a picture of the website, open on a smartphone, showing one of the products on offer. It also included a 5 discount code. The tube adverts, which also offered a discount code under the phrase: 'Do you love [leaf emoji]?', were placed in advertising panels. A TfL spokesperson said that the adverts had been 'flyposted', an issue that is being taken 'extremely seriously'. Cannabis has been advertised on London's underground in spaces reserved for paid adverts Last week, an illuminated billboard at Box Park Wembley was seen promoting the company with a new discount code The illuminated advert included a picture of the website, open on a smartphone, showing one of the products on offer 'These adverts are not authorised by TfL or our advertising partner Global,' they told MailOnline. 'It is flyposting, which we take extremely seriously. We have already instructed our contractors to remove any of these posters found on our network.' Dispenseroo's website, which sells the Class B drug for at least 40 for 3.5 grams, also boasts free shipping for orders more than 200, as well as 'regular giveaways and competitions for our community'. It also says the dispensary operates 'crop to door'. Speaking to Vice World News, the founder said: 'Being young and always trying to get the best weed, I was always getting bumped. Now I have the ability to get great weed, I wanted to share it with people.' He claimed that the drugs were being 'ethically sourced' and do not contain synthetic cannabinoids. Dispenseroo's founder said that the a cannabis dispensery made '50,000 worth of cannabis sales' in a week after 'flyposting' 2,500 adverts on the tube network 'It's grown free from pesticides and artificial chemicals. There's no child labour, no bandos, no trap houses, it's far away from that. It comes from reputable people. We work direct with growers across the UK and in California,' he added. 'All the weed and products are tested and our vapes come with lab reports on the boxes, so you can scan them and see what's in the cartridge you are vaping.' The founder said that he had been buying the Class B drug since he was 17, and wants to see a regulated market for the drug in the UK. This could include verifying customer ages with a form of ID, he said. The website is registered in the US state of Washington where private cannabis consumption is legal. Customers have given it a 4.7 star rating, following more than 100 reviews on Trustpilot. One buyer wrote: 'This is unbelievable, you guys are really going to be right [at] the top when it comes to legalisation. Another wrote: 'Saw the tube adverts. Thought that can't work. Well dear reader it does. [Seamless] delivery of some edibles. Tracked delivery via my friendly postwoman.' Others dubbed the website's service 'brilliant' and 'legit' after reviving their cannabis orders. The site, which tells customers that their data is '100 per cent safe', sells THC flowers, the psychoactive part of a cannabis plant The website opens to a homepage stating: 'Do you love weed? Then we've got some good news for you. 'Now with Dispenseroo, you can order all things Weed. With next day shipping if you order by midday, great customer service, and a curated selection of products to choose from. 'We work directly with growers to ensure the best and freshest products get to you.' On an about page, it continues: 'The Dispenseroo team, like weed. Okay, that's an understatement. We f***ing love weed. 'So much so that we have dedicated our lives to starting Dispenseroo. 'We want Dispenseroo to be much more than just the UK's biggest dispensary; with next day shipping for orders placed before mid-day, live chat customer support, and fair pricing. 'We want it to be a movement' The team behind Dispenseroo describe themselves as a 'collective of cannabis smokers aiming to fix the stigma surrounding cannabis and its positive effects'. 'We are on a mission to constantly keep improving and pushing for legalisation of weed in the UK,' they add. The site, which tells customers that their data is '100 per cent safe', sells THC flowers, the psychoactive part of a cannabis plant. The Metropolitan Police said that it could not comment, as London's underground is policed by the British Transport Police. A spokesperson for the British Transport Police told MailOnline: 'We're not aware of any reports of this.' Vice World News reported that the company has not been contacted by the police. Box Park and Open Media, which organises advertising at the site, have been contacted for comment. South Korea's new Hyunmoo ballistic missile is shown in a video released on Armed Forces Day, which falls on Saturday. The missile is expected to carry a warhead weighing up to 9 tons. Yonhap South Korean military unveils new weapon amid North Korean provocations By Kwon Mee-yoo South Korea unveiled during its Armed Forces Day celebration, Saturday, a video clip of its latest ballistic missile, which is expected to carry the largest warhead the South has developed so far. In the video clip, the missile is shown as part of the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation system, one of Seoul's "three-axis" strategies targeting North Korea's leadership, including its military headquarters. The axes also include the Kill Chain pre-emptive strike platform and the Korea Air and Missile Defense system. Shin Jong-woo, a senior researcher at the Korea Defense and Security Forum, noted that the missile in the video clip was launched using the so-called cold launch method, in which the rocket engine is ignited after leaving the launcher and is typically used for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. "Korea's previous Hyunmoo-2 uses the hot launch method, meaning the engine is ignited on the launch pad. However, the new missile was cold launched and we can presume that the new high- powered ballistic missile carries a heavier warhead," Shin said. "If the warhead is heavy, it has a strong impact on a launcher. So Russian intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) launched on a transporter erector launcher (TEL) often use the cold launch method," he added. According to the local daily Chosun Ilbo, the ballistic missile is named Hyunmoo-5 (V) and is expected to be able to carry a warhead weighing up to nine tons, which is the heaviest for that kind of projectile. It is known to have a range of more than 3,000 kilometers if mounted with a lighter warhead weighing less than one ton, which practically makes it a medium-range missile. "Although we cannot specify the exact size or weight of the warhead from the video, it is expected to carry the largest one Korea has ever developed," Shin said. According to Shin, the heavier the warhead, the more destructive the missile. "A high-power ballistic missile with a heavier warhead has increasing kinetic energy when descending, thus possessing a higher power to destroy underground facilities and bases by penetrating the ground," he said. As North Korea fortified the country after the 1950-53 Korean War, it built over 6,000 underground facilities, mostly under granite surfaces, and the heavy warhead could be used to strike those underground facilities. "It is expected that the missile is developed in a way to target and strike North Korean military facilities deep in underground tunnels," Shin said. "The Hyunmoo missile series is developed in a high level of confidentiality, so we cannot identify much from the video clip, but it seems that the new missile is still in the early stage of development," he added. The release of the clip came after Pyongyang test launched seven short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) in a week starting Sept. 25, including two missiles on Saturday, which was Seoul's Armed Forces Day. South Korea vowed to deal sternly with North Korea's use of nuclear weapons. "If North Korea attempts the use of nuclear weapons, it will face the resolute and overwhelming response of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and our military," President Yoon Suk-yeol said during the Armed Forces Day ceremony at Gyeryongdae military headquarters in Gyeryong, South Chungcheong Province, Saturday. Military officials said Yoon's "resolute and overwhelming response" refers to the South's effort to deter the North's military provocations and the missile in the video is part of the effort. The mayor of an Australian regional council has been arrested over drug charges. Police stopped the mayor of the Northern Territory's Barklay Region, Jeffrey McLaughlin, for a roadside drug test in Tennant Creek, about 500km north of Alice Springs, last month. The test allegedly returned a positive result for cannabis use and a later search of a nearby property uncovered 'a number of cannabis plants and material'. Northern Territory's Barkly mayor Jeffrey McLaughlin (above) has been charged with four drug offences after allegedly testing positive for cannabis use in a roadside test on Monday Cr McLaughlin was charged with four drug offences including possession, supply, cultivation and driving under the influence. He has been mayor of the Barkly region, encompassing most of central NT, for two years and a councillor since 2017. The mayor's arrest comes just one day after he welcomed the installation of two nyinkka, spiny-tailed goanna, statues in Tennant Creek. 'It's great news for the town and for tourism in the Barkly,' he told NT News. Cr McLaughlin (pictured with his 2021 election posters) has been mayor of Barkly for two years and a councillor since 2017 'The two nyinkkas are nine metres long each and they'll be here when the lizard people come to take us back. 'They'll be here forever.' Cr McLaughlin has gained a reputation as being a down-to-earth councillor with voters loving his whacky personality. He made headlines earlier this year after an escaped prisoner broke into his backyard to 'bum a smoke'. Cr McLaughlin (above) is known for his whacky personality and famously chased down an escaped prisoner who tried to 'bum a cigarette' off him after breaking into his backyard The mayor had clocked out for the weekend and was relaxing in his backyard when he saw something jump over his fence. Initially he thought the blur had been his dog but quickly realised it was Richard Henwood, a prisoner who had escaped from the Barkly Work Camp just five days before. 'I was like, "oi!' what are you doing!". It was old mate in a big black hoodie, black jumper and pants and I thought "that's not the right attire for summer",' Cr McLaughlin told ABC. 'I said, "what are you doing?" and he said, "they're after me!" and then I was like, "no sh** Sherlock".' Cr McLaughlin (above) is set to appear in Tennant Creek Local Court on October 11 to face charges of possession, supply, cultivation and driving under the influence The escapee then asked the mayor for a cigarette before taking off down the street. Cr McLaughlin immediately jumped to action, calling triple-zero and chasing Henwood. 'We yelled 'Oi!' to my neighbour then I ran out and watched him go towards someone else's house and I thought "Nup, I'll just follow him",' he said. 'I was thinking in my head, maybe I could bring out my old Taekwondo skills on him, but then I thought, nah, nah nah, this isn't a good idea I'll get caned.' Henwood and two other escapees were arrested a short time later and police thanked the public for their help in tracking them down. Cr McLaughlin is set to appear in Tennant Creek Local Court on October 11. Disturbing footage has emerged of an Aboriginal boy covered in blood and appearing to drift in and out of consciousness after being arrested by police over an alleged break and enter. A video posted online shows the 14-year-old, who cannot be named due to legal reasons, sitting on the ground in handcuffs with blood streaming down his face after being arrested in Coraki, in northern NSW, on September 11. Distressed relatives gather around him, telling police to stand back, while one man comforts the teen, hugging him and resting his head on his chest as the boy appears to become unresponsive. 'Get away, you've done enough damage to him,' a woman tells the officers. Another woman can be seen rubbing the boys chest and urging him to stay awake as he shuts his eyes and begins to drift off. The police officer approaches and pats the boy's back, before relatives scream 'get your hand off him! You've done enough!' Viral footage shows an Aboriginal boy's face covered in blood as he sits on the ground in handcuffs after being arrested by police in Coraki earlier this month 'Send an ambulance now! He is going unconscious!' After persistent urging to stay awake, the boy finally opens his eyes and relatives place a cloth on his head to stem the bleeding from the cut. But the pressure to the wound makes the boy scream out in pain, before he eventually settles into a whimper then shuts his eyes and goes quiet. A second video shows several paramedics treating the boy as he is placed in a neck brace before being taken to hospital. The footage has gone viral, racking up more than 110,000 views and 1700 reactions since being posted on Facebook. 'Enough is enough,' the relative of the boy who shared the footage wrote. 'Yes we know they aren't innocent... but here detectives chased.' The relative said the police commander has been contacted 'on many occasions'. 'We need to educate our mob [to] look after our mob [and] watch out for our mob when police are involved,' she said. Pictured: Blood streams down the boy's face and through his hair after he suffered a cut to his head NSW Police said the boy was arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into several property offences in the state's north. 'In July 2022, officers attached to Richmond Police District established Strike Force Impala to investigate a number of serious property offences including aggravated break, enter and steal offences in the Coraki area,' they said. 'As part of ongoing inquiries, police were conducting patrols of the Coraki area on Sunday (11 September 2022) when they observed a group of four people armed with housebreaking implements, including a crowbar and a piece of timber. 'Officers approached the group who immediately fled upon sighting police. A foot pursuit commenced, with two teenage boys aged 13 and 14 being arrested a short distance away.' NSW Police said the 14-year-old was taken to Lismore Base Hospital under police treatment for a laceration to his head. He was later released and taken to Lismore Police Station, while the younger boy was also taken to the same police station, where they were both later charged. NSW Police said they reviewed the conduct of the arresting officers and found their actions were 'reasonable'. A second video (pictured) shows the boy being treated by paramedics who place him in a neck brace The teenager was taken to Lismore Base Hospital (pictured) for treatment 'A review of all available material has been conducted by senior police, and it has been established that the officers' actions were reasonable in the circumstances,' they said in a statement to Daily Mail Australia. 'The young person was provided first aid and taken to hospital for treatment. He has since been charged and remains before the courts.' The 14-year-old was charged with enter inclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse, goods in personal custody suspected being stolen, and possess housebreaking implements. He was refused bail to appear at a childrens court on Monday September 12, where he was granted conditional bail to reappear at a childrens court on Friday 28 October 2022. The younger boy was charged with enter inclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse, and goods in personal custody suspected being stolen. He was granted conditional bail to appear at a childrens court on Friday 30 September 2022. When Bega Cheese bought Vegemite in 2017, returning the iconic spread to Australian ownership, true blue Aussies celebrated. But in truth, it was an exception to the trend of legendary Australian brands with long local histories being sold off to new foreign owners. Only two weeks ago, Patties Foods, the company that makes FourN'Twenty, Nanna's and the 114-year-old line Herbert Adams pies, was sold to Chinese private equity firm Pacific Alliance Group. Does it really matter, especially if it means saving jobs? For many Aussies, yes, it does. When Bega Cheese bought Vegemite in 2017, returning the iconic spread to Australian ownership true blue Aussies celebrated Sadly VB, the 'big cold beer' first brewed by Thomas Aitken in 1854 for our 'hard-earned thirst' is no longer Australian Who really owns our iconic Aussie brands? VB - Japanese conglomerate Asahi Breweries (Japan) Tim Tams - Kohlberg Kravis (American) Milo - Nestle (Swiss) Billabong - Boardriders (American) Bonds - Hanesbrands (American) FourN/Twenty pies - Pacific Alliance Group (Chinese) Bundaberg - Diageo (British) Dulux - Nippon Paint Company (Japanese) UGG boots - Deckers (American) Speedo - Pentland Group (British) Country Road - Woolworths (South African) Tip Top - Associated British Foods Inghams chickens - TPG (American) Advertisement The list of iconic brands now owned overseas is heartbreaking for people who who want profits from what they buy to stay in Australia. Victoria Bitter, Bonds, Tim Tams, Billabong, Speedo, Bundaberg rum have all become foreign-owned in recent years. One of the saddest outcomes for a beloved Australian company was the slow death of the Holden brand. The car marker, which was founded in 1856, was taken over by American giant General Motors in 1931, but the Holden brand continued to thrive for decades. Sadly in the 2000s the brand began to lose money, and the 2017 Holden VF Series II sedan was the company's last Australian car. The Holden Commodore (ZB), a re-badged Opel, was the last Commodore model sold in 2020. Aside from Vegemite, another exception is Qantas, which under government rules cannot be more than 49 per cent owned by 'foreign persons'. The airline is believed to be near that limit. Mining company BHP also has a similar restriction. Victoria Bitter - Japanese owned Yes, VB, the 'big cold beer' first brewed by Thomas Aitken in 1854 for our 'hard-earned thirst', is no longer Australia owned. A famous TV promotion in the 1960s introduced the slogan and associated the beer with working-class Aussies. By 2004 one in four beers sold in Australia was a VB, and by 2009 it was estimated to be Australia's only billion-dollar retail beer brand. The iconic beer went to Japanese brewer Asahi in the company's purchase of $16billion Carlton United Breweries in 2020 But the iconic beer went to Japanese brewer Asahi in the company's purchase of $16billion Carlton United Breweries, which was cleared by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in 2020. VB is still brewed in the huge Abbotsford brewery on the banks of Melbournes Yarra River. Tim Tams have been named Australia's favourite biscuit in almost every poll ever taken on the subject but they haven't been Aussie-owned since 1997 Poll Do you prefer to buy from Australian-owned companies? Yes No Do you prefer to buy from Australian-owned companies? Yes 471 votes No 27 votes Now share your opinion Tim Tams - American owned Arnott's biscuits date back 150 years in Australia, since Scottish immigrant William Arnott began baking in Newcastle, New South Wales in 1865. Tim Tams, the Australian version of the British Penguin biscuit, didn't come along until 1964. They were named after the 1958 winner of the Kentucky Derby, Tim Tam, by Ross Arnott. Tim Tams have been named Australia's favourite biscuit in almost every poll ever taken on the subject. Arnotts Biscuits have been owned by Americans since 1997, with the soup manufacturer Campbell's buying the iconic company after a long alliance that began in 1970. In 2019 Campbell's sold Arnotts and the Tim Tam brand to US private equity firm, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts. Yeah nah... FourN'Twenty pies are no longer Australian-owned after a deal was struck to sell the brand to Pacific Alliance Group (PAG) - one of the largest private equity firms in Hong Kong FourN'Twenty Pies - Chinese owned Patties Foods, headquartered in Victoria's Bairnsdale, that owns brands including FourN' Twenty, Nanna's, Herbert Adams and Boscastle, was bought by a major Asian conglomerate. Herbert Adams pies were first made in Australia 114 years ago. Patties Foods was snapped up by Pacific Alliance Group (PAG), one of the largest private equity firms in Hong Kong. The exact amount of the deal to acquire Patties was not disclosed but is reportedly in excess of $500million and will allow PAG to expand its Australian offering after buying Red Rooster, Oporto, and the WA-based Chicken Treat for a similar amount in 2019. Patties Foods boss Paul Hitchcock said PAG's purchase would 'unlock further investment and innovation'. American multinational clothing company HanesBrands paid $1.1billon to buy Bonds from Sydney-listed Pacific Brands Bonds - American owned Australia's favourite undies maker Bonds, was started by an American and 101 years later it returned to US ownership. American multinational clothing company HanesBrands paid $1.1billon to buy Bonds from Sydney-listed Pacific Brands in 2016. It's manufacturing also shifted to China. Bonds, started in Australia as a womens hosiery importer by American George Allan Bond in 1915, is Australias most popular brand of mens, women's and children's underwear, socks and babywear. In 1991 British sportswear firm Pentland Group bought out Speedo, which was introduced to the world at the 1932 Olympics Speedo - British owned Another Scottish immigrant was responsible for the classic Aussie swimwear line, Speedo. In 1914 he set up a clothing company in Regent Street Sydney and 'Speedo' was picked as the winner of a public naming competition for the company. Iconic brands still in Australian hands Vegemite - Bega Cheese Chicken Salt - Mitani family (SA) Qantas - 51% Australian owned Driza-Bone RM Williams - Forrest family (WA) Blundstones - Cuthbertson family (Tasmania) Woolworths - public shareholders Bunnings - Wesfarmers (WA) BHP - 51% Australian owned Advertisement Speedo made its Olympic debut when 16-year old Australian Clare Dennis won the Women's 200 Meter Breaststroke at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games. In 1991 British sportswear firm Pentland Group bought out Speedo and the brand has gone from strength to strength. Country Road - South African owned Country Road was started in 1974 by Stephen Bennett, initially as a niche women's shirt label. It is believed he took the name of the label from the famous John Denver hit song, Country Roads. In 1981 Myer bought Country Road, and 17 years later, South African multinational Woolworths Holdings (which has no association with Australia's Woolies stores) purchased a majority shareholding. In 2014 Woolworths Holdings took full ownership, the same year it bought another iconic Aussie department store, David Jones. Mr Bennett left and went on to become the creative director for Driza-Bone, another iconic Aussie label that remains locally-owned. Australia's Woolworths supermarkets are publicly-owned. South African multinational Woolworths Holdings (which has no association with Australia's Woolies stores) purchased a majority shareholding in Country Road in 1998 In 2000 'Bundy' as it is affectionately known was sold to British liquor giant Diageo, which also produces Johnny Walker whisky and the iconic Irish beer Guinness Bundaberg rum - British-owned In 2000 'Bundy' as it is affectionately known, was sold to British liquor giant Diageo, which also produces Johnny Walker whisky and the iconic Irish beer Guinness. Diageo upset the Queensland government by opting to move some of its bottling operations from its hometown of Bundaberg to western Sydney in 2014. The rum itself is still made in East Bundaberg on the same site that has produced the spirit for 125 years. Bundaberg rum was first made in Queensland out of molasses left over after sugar was extracted in mills in the late 19th century. Mill owners solved the problem of what to do with the heavy waste product by joining together to form the Bundaberg Distilling Company. In 1961 the company added the image of a polar bear to the label to imply that the rum could ward off the coldest chill. Ugg boots were created by an Aussie surfer and sold in 1995 to US company Decker Ugg boots - American owned Australian surfer Brian Smith had just finished studying management in California when he and a friend Doug Jensen applied to distribute a Western Australian sheepskin boot named Country Leather. He rebranded the product UGG and borrowed $20,000 from family and friends, but the punt looked like a failure, with just 28 pairs sold in the first year, 1978. Even though Mrs Smith was based in the US, he registered a trademark, 'Original UGG Boot UGG Australia'. When he began to feature pro surfers wearing Ugg boots his sales jumped $400,000 in one year. He got a big break in 1994, when the U.S. Olympic team in Lillehammer wore his boots. Sales exploded after people saw his boots on television. A year later, he sold the business for $14.6 million to Decker Brands. In 2016 Ugg rebranded to remove Australia from its brand after a complaint to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said they were made in China and Vietnam, so not local. Dulux - Japanese owned Australian shareholders overwhelmingly approved the sale of Dulux to Japanese company Nippon Paints for $3.8billion in 2019. A massive 97.6 per cent of shareholders voted in favour of the deal at a meeting in Melbourne. 'It is a little bit of a sad day,' Dulux chairman Graeme Liebelt told the AFR. Dulux traced its history back to Australia's first paint manufacturer HL Vosz Ltd, which opened a factory in Adelaide in 1904. Other major Aussie brands, Taubmans and Wattyl, are owned by United States groups. Milo - Swiss owned In 1934, Australian industrial chemist and inventor Thomas Mayne came up with Milo by mixing milk, cocoa, sugar, salt and vitamins. His creation, named after an ancient Greek wrestler, debuted at the Sydney Roal Easter Show in as 'a fortified tonic food'. Mr Mayne worked for Nestle and Milo has always been owned by the Swiss multinational even though it is produced on the NSW mid north coast. The 200 workers at the Smithtown factory produce an estimated 200,000 tins of it every day. New York Times bestselling author Jerry Oppenheimer is the author of Toy Monster: The Big, Bad World of Mattel, and a frequent contributor to DailyMail.com. The daughter of the man who claimed he invented Barbie is speaking out for the first time about how her father's role in creating the world's most famous doll has been excised by toy giant Mattel. After years of being dissed by the company Ann Ryan said it is time to set the record straight about Barbie's birth in an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com Her father Jack, who killed himself in 1991, was known as a kinky sexual swinger who hosted orgies at his home, she said, and Mattel is desperate to protect the reputation of their best-selling toy from being impugned by of his unorthodox lifestyle. Instead, she said, Mattel prefers to stick with its story that Barbie was invented by company co-founder Ruth Handler even though she was a convicted felon who was kicked out of the company for cooking the books. Speaking out for the first time, Ann Ryan, 67, claims that letters and emails she has sent to the company seeking access to internal records and archives that she said would prove her father's role as the inventor of the world's most famous doll have consistently been ignored. Ann Ryan, 67, claims her father Jack Ryan is the true creator of the famed doll Barbie and bashes Mattel for erasing his legacy. She says one of the reasons for her father's blacklisting is his debauched lifestyle. She is pictured with her late father Ann provided her father's original patent for the famed doll filed in 1959. She included the photo of her father's detailed drawings of Barbie in an email to Mattel CEO, 'hoping that that would get the attention [of Mattel]' Ann says Mattel prefers to stick with its story that Barbie was invented by Ruth Handler (pictured) even though she was a convicted felon who was kicked out of the company for cooking the books 'It's time to set the record straight,' she said, about her father's paternity of Barbie, the 11'' doll born 63 years ago that he designed with long legs, a thin waist and perky breasts, and that have sold in the billions for Mattel. One of the reasons for her father's blacklisting, she believes, is how he lived his life. Ryan, who committed suicide in 1991 at 65, was married five times. He was a kinky sexual swinger who hosted orgies at his faux castle home a lifestyle that long embarrassed Handler, who died at age 85 in 2002, who feared it could tarnish Barbie's reputation. 'My father is absolutely the father of Barbie,' Ann Ryan tells DailyMail.com 'Clearly, Ruth both disapproved of my father's lifestyle and envied the attention that it and his accomplishments had,' Ann declares. Ryan also drank heavily and used cocaine and had periods of depression times that Ann now links 'to the stress and anxiety of Ruth Handler's ill-will toward him.' He eventually suffered a heart attack and debilitating stroke and shot himself dead. Since Barbie's introduction in 1959, Mattel has credited the doll's conception solely to Handler even though she was a convicted felon who was kicked out of the company for cooking the books, and later sentenced in federal court to five years probation, 2,500 hours of community service and fined $57,000. Ann Ryan said her purpose now is to 'finally debunk Ruth's story as to who is responsible for inventing Barbie and for the doll's huge success.' 'My father is absolutely the father of Barbie,' she said. Mattel's corporate history on its website makes no mention of Ryan and honors Handler, despite the dark cloud over her. It states that she 'was inspired by observing her daughter, Barbara, play with paper dolls for hours, and recognizes the opportunity to champion and inspire girls by introducing a three-dimensional doll that shows them they can be anything.' 'What isn't mentioned in the corporate history,' asserts Ann Ryan, 'is that my father's role in Barbie's development began way before he even came to Mattel. 'When he was growing up, he was obsessed with the female form, studying and tracing pinups by famous artists, and for years he had been promoting to Ruth the idea of a fully developed female doll.' In February 2020, Ann sent a letter to Mattel chairman and chief executive Ynon Kreiz asking to 'see what records Mattel has that you would be willing to share with me' for a book she was planning to write about her father. She said she has consistently been ignored Ann is seeking access to internal records and archives that she said would prove her father's role as the inventor of the world's most famous doll Mattel cut off Ryan's huge royalties that he had been paid for the design and sale of Barbie and other toys. Shocked and devastated, Ryan severed his close ties with Mattel after two decades, and sued the company for $24million for nonpayment of royalties In February 2020, Ann sent a letter to Mattel chairman and chief executive Ynon Kreiz asking to 'see what records Mattel has that you would be willing to share with me' for a book she was planning to write about her father, noting that, 'There has been well-documented controversy regarding his relationship' with Ruth Handler.' Ryan, who committed suicide in 1991 at 65, was married five times and was a kinky swinger who hosted orgies at his faux castle home. Ryan and Ann are pictured together She had even included a photo of one of her father's detailed drawings of Barbie, 'hoping that that would get his attention. I never heard from him.' She emailed a similar request to Mattel's media relations director, but heard nothing until a frustrating email arrived in her inbox from Marissa Beck, of Mattel's Global Brand Communications. 'We are not able to share any internal documents with people outside the company,' Beck wrote, 'but if you have specific factual inquiries we can look into seeing if we can answer them.' 'They absolutely stonewalled me,' declared Ann. Like Ruth's criminal record and Jack's unconventional lifestyle, Barbie herself had something of a purple past. During a European vacation in 1956, Ruth Handler discovered Bild-Lilli, an adult novelty plastic doll that was based on a sexy, popular cartoon character in a German newspaper. Believing that a Bild-Lilli makeover could make a fortune for Mattel as a child's plaything, Handler turned her over to Ryan, the Yale and Harvard educated head of the company's research and design department, and told him to work his magic. Ryan, who previously designed missiles for the Pentagon when he worked at Raytheon, went to work on his own detailed engineering and design, using Bild-Lilli as a model, and gave birth to what became today's popular Barbie doll. Of Ryan's harem of wives, the most prominent was his second, nine times married Hungarian beauty Zsa Zsa Gabor Ann provided a hand written letter to her from her step mom Zsa Zsa Gabor, who signs it 'Momma No. 2' Ryan lived in what he called his 'castle', a classic Tudor mansion on a hillside in Los Angeles's ritzy Bel Air enclave, complete with a bridge over a moat But Handler's only concession to his work was a brief mention in her 1994 memoir, Dream Doll, citing his development of the 'Twist 'n' Turn Barbie,' a major breakthrough that gave the doll natural movement by allowing little girls to bend her at the waist and legs, and twist her at the hips with no visible joints. Pictured is Ann's mother and Ryan's first wife Barbara 'Barbie' Ryan 'Because these technological innovations were among the few Barbie features we were able to patent,' Handler wrote, 'Jack Ryan would later tell people that he was the inventor of the Barbie doll. You can imagine how annoying this was.' Handler's most concerted attack on Ryan, asserts his daughter, was when Mattel cut off her father's huge royalties that he had been paid for the design and sale of Barbie and other toys. Shocked and devastated, Ryan severed his close ties with Mattel after two decades, and sued the company for $24million for nonpayment of royalties. 'They could afford to spend a million dollars-a-year on litigation just hoping that Jack would finally give up,' said Ann Ryan. 'But he wasn't going to give up because he knew he was right and that Mattel was wrong, and all he had to do was keep coming up with the cash to pay his lawyers. 'It was awful for him. I think his heart was literally broken. 'His contributions to the company to make it more successful were enormous, and then without saying anything they started chipping away at his royalties and he was really, really upset. He really took it personally.' A settlement was eventually negotiated in Ryan's lawsuit for $10.1 million, less than half of what he said he was owed. To make matters worse, Ryan even had to sell his beloved castle a classic Tudor mansion on a hillside in Los Angeles's ritzy Bel Air enclave into an actual fairytale castle, complete with a bridge over a moat just to keep the lawsuit going.' A developer later snapped it up for a fire sale price of under $2 million. 'My father literally played the king of his castle,' Ann fondly remembers. And the castle was where he hosted his sex orgies with dozens of beautiful women participating. 'He often threw Tom Jones dinners a utensil-free bacchanal. The female guest of honor, who sat on a throne, was crowned, and the wild party was off and running. 'As a teenager, I'd often make an appearance at these parties in Renaissance garb, astride one of my horses, riding right into the Tom Jones dining room.' Ann acknowledges that she was aware of her father's sexual proclivities and swinger lifestyle. 'It was the Sixties,' she said, 'And free love was the new religion. In California, he saw girls frolicking with guys and he became hooked on the idea of this non-provincial lifestyle.' But just two years after the Ryan family moved to the castle, 'My mother had had enough,' said Ann. 'She hated the parties and the women. 'My parents lived separately under one roof and carried on separate lifestyles.' Barbara 'Barbie' Ryan, the first of Jack's five wives, began divorce proceedings and moved to a more modest home. 'Now I want Mattel to pony up and finally acknowledge all that my dad did for that company. That he was the father of Barbie, and much more,' Ann says Of Ryan's harem of wives, the most prominent was his second, the 'famous for being famous,' nine times married Hungarian beauty Zsa Zsa Gabor. In her 1991 autobiography, 'One Lifetime is Not Enough,' Gabor, said she 'discovered that, far from building a life with me, with one woman, Jack had every intention of continuing his swinging lifestyle. 'I just couldn't cope. There was also the matter of Jack's dungeon, a torture chamber painted a sinister black and decorated with black fox fur. All in all, Jack's sex life would have made the average Penthouse reader blanch with shock.' They honeymooned in Japan where Ryan had business meetings. He arranged for Zsa Zsa to have an escort to show her around Tokyo, but when they got back to the hotel and she was ready to say goodbye, the escort shockingly informed her, 'Miss Gabor, your husband has paid me to go to bed with you.' Ryan's fifth wife, Magda, a quarter century his junior, had been in the U.S. from Poland for just six months when, needy for companionship and depressed about what had happened to him at Mattel, he convinced her to marry him. After suffering a stroke, he was left partially paralyzed and without the ability to speak, and decided to end it. On August 13, 1991, Magda found Ryan's body in a pool of blood next to the bed. He had fired one bullet from his .45 caliber pistol into his mouth, but before pulling the trigger, he had written, 'I love you' on a mirror with her lipstick. 'I loved my dad and I can completely understand why he committed suicide. He had that young wife, Maggie, and he essentially realized that she had become a caretaker for an old, and infirm man.' 'Now I want Mattel to pony up and finally acknowledge all that my dad did for that company. That he was the father of Barbie, and much more.' Mattel has not responded to DailyMail.com's request for comment on this story. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney curiously paid his husband's personal trainer as a 'part time employee' through both taxpayer funds and campaign funds. Erick Ramos was paid $2,608.66 by the New York Democrat and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) chair's office from April-May 2021 and listed as a 'part time employee.' Between March 2021 and October 2021, Ramos was paid $4,396 from Maloney's campaign funds. At the same time, Maloney's husband Randy Florke posted several videos to Instagram and tagged Ramos and referred to him as Florke and Maloney's 'personal trainer.' Ramos, in his Instagram bio, described himself as a 'personal trainer' and 'natural athlete.' Maloney's office said that Ramos was paid as a driver. Maloney is pictured above with his husband and two of his children His Facebook page says that he has been employed as a chief security officer at John Hardy since 2018. The office said the congressman's regular driver, who is also listed as a 'part-time employee,' went on paternity leave and Ramos was brought to fill in for him. In a call set up by Maloney's office, DailyMail.com made inquiries with the congressman's usual driver, who said he did take paternity leave between March and May 2021 and took time off again in September-October 2021. On May 13, 2021, Florke posted a workout video and tagged Ramos, whose handle is 3rick_ramos1993. Responding to a comment on his post, Florke responded to a comment saying he was at his home gym and telling the follower they 'should hire my trainer. He's amazing. @3rick_ramos.' Maloney's husband Randy Florke posts a workout video and tags trainer Erick Ramos At the same time Ramos is working as the couple's personal trainer he was employed as a driver for the congressional office and campaign Florke tags Ramos in a July 2021 post On March 24, 2021 Florke posted a workout video of himself and Maloney, and again tagged Ramos. On June 24, 2021 Florke posted a photo of shirtless photo of himself and captioned it: 'Hiked Mt. Beacon with my trainer @3rick_ramos1993 this morning instead of our normal workout.' On three other occasions throughout June and July, Florke posted workout content to social media and tagged Ramos. Maloney's office claimed Ramos was paid taxpayer money 'exclusively' for driving duties and to question the payments was 'blatant homophobia.' 'Congratulations to the Daily Mail for their shocking discovery that Rep. Maloney and his husband work out! Beyond that, there is nothing to this piece besides blatant homophobia and yet another baseless attack on a person of color who worked for Rep. Maloney,' Maloney's communications director Mia Ehrenberg said in a statement. The driver who went on paternity leave is black. Another of Florke's posts where Ramos is tagged 'Rep. Maloney's driver had a baby and needed to take leave. During that period, Mr. Ramos briefly filled in as driver and was paid exclusively for that role.' The Maloney campaign had a similar story. 'Mr. Ramos filled in as driver from late March 2021 to May 2021 when the current driver was on leave. He also filled in as driver on a few occasions in fall of 2021 as-needed,' a spokesperson said. Florke and Maloney have been together since 1992 and have three adopted children. Florke works as an interior decorator in Cold Spring, New York. Maloney has served in Congress since 2013. Maloney is running against Republican state lawmaker Mike Lawler in November in a competitive district that Cook Political Report rates as 'leans Democratic.' Maloney and Florke work out together in March 2021 Ramos was there training them through the sweat session Florke tags his trainer in a Mt. Beacon, NY hike in June 2021 Lawler's campaign criticized the 'unusual financial arrangement' in a statement to DailyMail.com. 'The Erick Ramos controversy stinks to high heaven, but Sean Maloney seems to think that ethics rules don't apply to him,' campaign spokesperson Bill O'Reilly said. 'That's what happens when you've been a Washington-insider for too long. The more Mr. Maloney tries to run from this, the more questions arise.' The DCCC could not be reached for comment. Maloney made waves in the Democratic Party earlier this year when after a new redistricting map was released he announced he would run in the new district he lives in despite it heavily overlapping with Rep. Mondaire Jones' district, prompting Jones to run in New York City. Complaints arose across the nation about Maloney over the DCCC's choice to elevate far-right candidates in Republican primaries who they believed they would have an easier time beating in general elections. This is not the first time Maloney's staffing choices have prompted questions as to whether he used campaign funds for personal use. In July the New York Post reported on Harold Leath, Maloney's former 'body man' or as Maloney's office calls it, 'executive assistant.' 'I was pretty much with the congressman everywhere he went within the district if he went to a meeting, if he went out running. I would drive him everywhere he needed to go,' he told The Post. 'When I first started, my main responsibility was to make sure the congressman and his family never needed anything,' Leath recalled. 'I was to be there.' 'Everything I got paid for was either for his campaign, in the beginning, or doing something for him.' Advertisement The Democrat-led border city of El Paso, Texas, has been quietly working with the Biden administration to spend millions of dollars of federal money busing thousands of migrants to northern sanctuary cities, including New York and Chicago, DailyMail.com can reveal. While the Republican governors of Texas and Arizona Greg Abbott and Doug Ducey have made headlines sending migrants to liberal northern cities to spotlight the crisis on the southern frontier, El Paso is doing much the same, just without the fanfare. For some, El Paso's migrant-busing policy showcases how Democrat-led administrations are downplaying the crisis on America's border, speedily processing thousands of arrivals each day at a warehouse in the desert and packing them on to buses north. It also opens up President Joe Biden's administration to accusations of hypocrisy for criticizing the migrant-busing policies of Abbott and Ducey while cooperating when liberal El Paso does much the same, albeit under a different label. DailyMail.com visited the border to see the migrant surge first hand. We witnessed a steady flow of people crossing the Rio Grande river by foot, handing themselves into border guards, being processed and then sent on buses northwards by local officials. 'The hypocrisy on display right now by Democrats and coastal elites is a thing to behold,' said R.J. Hauman, an analyst at the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), a policy group. 'Transporting illegal aliens into American communities is either perfectly fine or inhumane. It just depends who sends them and where they go.' DailyMail.com visited El Paso to see the immigration crisis first hand. The helps more than 500 migrants every day board buses to New York and Chicago and assists with travel plans elsewhere across the U.S. The city moved its migrant problem to a processing facility on the edge of town. DailyMail.com witnesses lines of immigrants mostly young men, but also many families waiting to board buses for the next stage of their journey Migrants await their free bus rides north at El Paso's 'welcome center'. Many of the new arrivals have fled flawed leftist regimes in Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua The frontier city is battling a surge of migrants, with some 1,500 crossing daily, many fleeing flawed leftist regimes in Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua, overwhelming federal processing hubs and spawning chaotic scenes of migrants sleeping rough on downtown sidewalks. City and county officials have responded by spending millions of dollars opening 'welcome centers' to get migrants out of El Paso, after they've been lawfully released by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), often with far-off court appearance dates scheduled. El Paso city spends $250,000-$300,000 daily on feeding and arranging travel for migrants and lodging them in hotels or shelters, and last month opened a transit center in an industrial zone on the city's northeastern desert edge. There, migrants with means can book their own flights or buses for onward travel. Cash-strapped newcomers get free rides aboard charters. More than 5,000 arrivals have been sent north aboard more than 115 such buses since August 23. Downtown El Paso has in recent weeks witnessed chaotic scenes of migrants sleeping on the streets, after the surge of new arrivals overwhelmed the area's federal-run processing facilities El Paso city spends $250,000-$300,000 daily on feeding, sheltering and arranging travel for migrants. Pictured: Venezuelan arrivals at one of the city's shelters, Annunciation House At a recent visit to the center, migrants from Venezuela and Cuba told DailyMail.com of grueling overland journeys to reach America and of plans to meet friends and relatives across the U.S., find work and send money to needy relatives back home. The city council recently voted to allocate $4 million to charter more buses over the coming months an eye-watering sum for a relatively poor city on the understanding that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would reimburse the money. Poll Does the Biden administration have a grip on immigration? Yes No Does the Biden administration have a grip on immigration? Yes 43 votes No 1667 votes Now share your opinion El Paso county officials, meanwhile, plan to open another edge-of-city migrant travel center costing some $6.8 million, also using federal funds, by the city's main airport, aimed at helping migrants with money connect with friends or relatives elsewhere in the U.S. Mario D'Agostino, El Paso's deputy city manager, told DailyMail.com that busing thousands of arrivals was a 'humanitarian effort in getting them to the location where they want to be'. 'They're on a journey to the United States, whether it's New York City or Chicago, they have told us El Paso is just the crossing point,' he added. The policy came about through coordination between El Paso, its Democratic representative in Congress, Veronica Escobar, the White House and FEMA, which will at least in part reimburse the city, D'Agostino said. The White House and Escobar's office did not answer DailyMail.com's interview requests. El Paso officials distance themselves from the migrant-moving schemes of Abbott, Ducey and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who last month sent a planeload of some 50 Venezuelans to Martha's Vineyard, an upscale liberal island retreat in Massachusetts. Joe Biden's presidency could easily end with seven million or more new migrants in America a population larger than the size of Los Angeles and Chicago combined. August is the latest month for which data are available During a visit to the border, DailyMail.com witnessed migrants crossing the Rio Grande river by foot, from Mexico into the United States, before handing themselves in to border guards Customs and Border Protection teams check the papers of arriving migrants who have crossed the border illegally, determining case by case how they should be processed Upon reaching the U.S., migrants remove their shoes and empty their pockets before being screened by Customs and Border Protection teams Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sent a planeload of some 50 Venezuelans to Martha's Vineyard, an upscale liberal island retreat in Massachusetts El Paso's buses, they say, operate in coordination with officials in New York and Chicago who get advance notice of arrivals and the names of the migrant passengers aboard. Charity teams from Grannies Respond are ready to assist them on arrival, they add. Still, many of the destination sanctuary cities say they have been overrun by the new arrivals. New York Mayor Eric Adams is even considering housing them on cruise ships because the city's shelters have been overwhelmed. Victor Manjarrez, a former CBP chief for the region who now heads a department at The University of Texas at El Paso, says Democrats and Republicans are staging 'political theater' El Paso's busing policy is not wholly popular. Victor Manjarrez, a former CBP chief for the region who now heads a department at The University of Texas at El Paso, says Democrats and Republicans were playing a game of 'political theater'. By busing migrants north, El Paso officials were 'doing the same thing' as governors Abbott and Ducey, only 'it's just not getting the same type of attention,' Manjarrez told DailyMail.com. Others say the migrant surge has overstretched a city of nearly 700,000 and that while FEMA has reimbursed some of the costs, there is no guarantee the agency will continue to pay. City officials warn that services could be cut. Last month, the migrant influx overwhelmed CBP, which had to release newcomers from its facilities onto El Paso's streets. Dozens slept on sidewalks near the bus station downtown. Some welcomed them; others complained of a urine smell and aggressive begging. Moving migrants to the edge of town was 'out of sight, out of mind', said city representative Claudia Rodriguez, who voted against upping the bus budget. She accused the city of 'throwing more and more money' away. The full cost on El Paso taxpayers was not yet clear, as local police and firefighters have been redeployed to staff the welcome center, clocking up overtime pay that is further straining a tight budget, she added. Migrants cross the Rio Grande river from Ciudad Juarez in Mexico to El Paso, in the U.S., before turning themselves in to waiting border patrol agents A Haitian family crosses the Rio Grande river from Ciudad Juarez in Mexico to El Paso, in the U.S., assisted by an official from Customs and Border Protection U.S. border guards are grappling with a surge of migrants crossing from Mexico. Authorities stopped migrants 2.15 million times from October through August, the first time the figure was above 2 million during the government's fiscal year. August is the latest month for which data are available 'Are we in the business of being a travel agency, or are we in the business of public safety, and streets and roads?' Rodriguez told DailyMail.com. Likewise, Guadalupe Giner, who is running to replace El Paso's Democratic county judge in November's elections, said residents were being forced to accommodate and pay for some troublemakers among the many decent migrants who had entered the U.S. illegally. 'They're using our dollars for a federal failure, which is failing to secure our border,' Giner said. 'This is not just an El Paso or a Texas problem. This is a national problem.' U.S. border guards are grappling with a surge of migrants crossing from Mexico. Authorities stopped migrants 2.15 million times from October through August, the first time the figure was above 2 million during the government's fiscal year. August is the latest month for which data are available. The El Paso area registered 157,921 encounters in August, a 2.2 percent rise on July, with fewer Mexicans and Central Americans and a massive uptick in Venezuelans and Cubans, who stand a better chance of admission than some other nationalities. The surge in unauthorized border crossings has come as the Biden administration seeks to unravel some of the tough frontier restrictions imposed by former President Donald Trump. Republicans including Abbott, DeSantis and Ducey accuse the Biden administration of failing to secure the border; the White House counters by saying those governors are using migrants as a 'political tool' in their northbound bus and plane deliveries. Texas has committed billions of dollars to Abbott's 'Operation Lone Star,' which includes boosted border security and bus trips. Since April, state authorities have bused 2,200 migrants to New York, 300 to Chicago and 8,000 to Washington including one drop-off at Vice President Kamala Harris's home in the capital. Arizona has bused more than 1,800 to Washington since May. Hauman, the immigration expert, likens El Paso's hush-hush buses to the Biden administration's charter flights resettling migrants across the U.S., carried out 'under the cover of darkness for over a year'. Migrants await their buses north at El Paso's so called 'welcome center'. Some city officials fear the city is spending too much money and will not be fully reimbursed by federal emergency relief funds Migrants await their buses to northern cities, including New York and Chicago, at El Paso's purpose-built transit center on the desert edges of the city Much like Abbott and Ducey, Democrat-run El Paso concluded that 'Biden's complete dismantling of immigration enforcement and border security' had left administrations on the border with little choice but to shunt new arrivals north, he added. A CBS/YouGov survey recently found that 51 percent of registered voters approve of sending illegal immigrants to Democratic cities, compared to 49 percent who disapprove. Many said it was an effective way of spotlighting the issue of illegal immigration. After reaching their destinations, migrants may remain in the country for months or even years while they pursue asylum claims or fight deportation cases in court; during which time they are permitted to work. Migrants are not the only people leaving El Paso. George Brenzovich last year sold up his frontier house along the Rio Grande in Fort Hancock, 55 miles to the southeast, relocating to eastern Texas. He bemoaned two decades of watching growing numbers of migrants traipse across his land. 'I didn't have cable TV,' said Brenzovich, 76, a former police officer and gun enthusiast. 'We could just go outside and listen to the gunfire across the border and watch the border patrol running around, chasing folks in their helicopters day and night. Didn't need to watch much television.' After crossing into the U.S. illegally, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stationed near the river takes fingerprint scans of the arriving migrants Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is pushing back on questions over the delayed evacuation order for Lee County, a part of the Sunshine State that was particularly hard-hit by Hurricane Ian. In a CNN clip shared by his 2022 campaign's rapid response Twitter account, a journalist asks the governor: 'Why do you stand behind Lee Countys decision to not have that mandatory evacuation until the day before the storm?' 'Well, did you - where was your industry when the storm hit? Were you guys in Lee County? No, you were in Tampa,' DeSantis countered. 'They were following the weather track and they had to make decisions based on that. Local and state officials have faced scrutiny after Lee County residents were put under evacuation orders last week just a day before the Category 4 hurricane made landfall, giving many Floridians little time to escape its path. Sanibel Island, Fort Myers and Cape Coral are among the places where the devastation is most prominent - the only bridge connecting Sanibel Island to the mainland US collapsed during the storm, meaning rescuers are forced to frantically search for survivors by water and by air only. DeSantis said on Saturday that Lee County was not initially projected to be in the hurricane's path. 'You know, 72 hours, they weren't even in the cone,' he said, referring to storm projections. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was confronted about the delayed evacuation order on Lee County, which was among the areas hardest-hit by Hurricane Ian Today: CNN reporter questions Governor DeSantis, hoping to push a misleading narrative about evacuation in Lee County. He shuts that right down. His answer is professional, direct & empathetic... with ZERO tolerance for gaslighting.pic.twitter.com/Z8YVgcMXFl DeSantis War Room #FloridaStrong (@DeSantisWarRoom) October 3, 2022 'Forty-eight hours, they were on the periphery, so you've got to make the decisions the best you can.' The governor continued to defend local officials, suggesting they were prepared for a mass evacuation event with the short window given - and insisted residents were not trapped. 'I will say, you know, they delivered the message to people, they had shelters open, everyone had adequate opportunity to at least get to a shelter within the county,' DeSantis said. 'A lot of the residents did not want to do that - I think probably for various reasons, some people just don't want to leave their home, period, they're island people.' He then blamed the media for its focus on other areas of the state, claiming: 'I think part of it was so much attention was paid to Tampa, that I think a lot of them probably thought that they wouldn't get the worst of it.' Hurricane Ian has been blamed for more than 80 deaths in Florida alone, and more than 100 nationwide. More than 80 people have died in Florida alone after the powerful storm ravaged the state Among the areas in Lee County hardest hit were Fort Myers, Sanibel Island (pictured) and Cape Coral Progressive Florida-based attorney Daniel Uhlfelder hit back at DeSantis' comments in an interview with Raw Story and insisted that Lee County's older residents needed more time to get out than they were given. 'There are a lot of elderly folks who need extra time to get out and to just play games - I just can't believe it,' Uhlfelder said, calling DeSantis' defense 'Trumpian.' 'He was telling CNN, "What should I do? Drag people out of their house?" No! And to try and misdirect it to the media where they were, I mean, it's just irresponsible.' DeSantis' predecessor in Tallahassee, GOP Senator Rick Scott, told CNN's State of the Union on Sunday that more information was needed on Lee County's hurricane planning. When asked if Lee County's delayed evacuation order was a mistake, Scott replied: 'I think the way you have to look at it is, every loss of life, you have to say to yourself, what could you do differently next time so it never happens again?' 'I want to know, because an issue I had as governor is trying to say, what did I learn to try to make sure that we don't lose a life?' he continued. 'And so I think that everybody in every one of these emergency operations centers has to say to themselves... OK, so, what do we do to make sure we don't lose a life?' The 28-year-old used a tracking feature to locate his items at a nearby property A robbery victim, who tracked down $20,000 worth of stolen goods, claims police offered no help in catching thieves despite giving them their exact location. Cooper Pugh, 28, was robbed of thousands of dollars worth of items when his Gold Coast house was broken into at about 8pm on Saturday while he was out at a movie with his partner and his two flatmates were away for the long weekend. The robbers broke into the Venice Street home in Mermaid Beach by smashing a window and stole laptops, Airpods, two iPads, a Canon camera, jewellery, shoes, bags and a jar of coins. After using a tracking feature on one of the stolen items, Mr Pugh located the stolen loot in an apartment building and begged police for help to recover the items. Cooper Pugh, 28, (pictured) claims he called police nine times and waited for assistance after he was able to track the exact location of $20,000 worth of stolen property 'We got the tracking information around 9.30pm and it was five streets down at an apartment building,' Mr Pugh told the Courier Mail 'So we've pulled up out the front. We notified the police about the initial robbery. We notified them again that we'd found where they (the thieves) were. They were in a carpark. We could have pinpointed it to within two or three cars. It was in the boot of someone's car. 'The police said they would come. We waited for hours. No one came.' Mr Pugh explained he was able to identify one of the thieves because they were wearing a pair of his stolen shoes - Vans Half Cabs. The 28-year-old called police to notify them that they had identified one of the robbers and chased him down the street. Mr Pugh and his partner then returned the apartment block and waited out the front to make sure no cars left before the perpetrator returned with a friend. 'A friend and him come and do a really slow drive by. Really scary looking guys. They're both mid-forties,' Mr Pugh said. 'So then we decided to leave and that car pulls around, does a u-turn and tries to chase us.' The 28-year-old said his Venice Street home, in Mermaid Beach, Queensland, (pictured) was robbed while he was out at a movie with his partner and his two flatmates were away for the long weekend To Mr Pugh's dismay, police never arrived, despite reportedly telling him they were on their way and would call if they couldn't locate the address. Mr Pugh claims he called police nine times throughout the night providing information and updates but received no help. The frustrated Mermaid Beach resident said he even flagged down an officer on the street who explained he was unable to assist because it was a 'really busy night'. 'Twenty thousand worth of goods and no care,' Mr Pugh said. 'The fact that they instructed us to wait out the front of where the perpetrator was for a squad car that never came.' Mr Pugh (pictured) claims Queensland Police had 'no care' and now fears the opportunity to recover his stolen property has passed as the items are now 'on the move' Mr Pugh fears the opportunity to recover his stolen items has passed as the goods are now 'on the move' and no longer at a pinpointed specific location. Queensland Police said 'operational demand' meant officers were unable to assist Mr Pugh on the night of the robbery. 'Police are investigating the burglary of a Venice St, Mermaid Beach address,' a Queensland Police spokesperson said. 'Following the initial report, police were contacted by the victim twice to report further information and inquiries were logged. 'Due to operational demand, police were unable to attend the scene, however an active investigation remains in place.' A woman who was repeatedly raped by Jimmy Savile when she was 15 has described how the prolific paedophile groomed and attacked her during the 1970s - before silencing her with menacing threats. The victim, who has not been named to protect her identity, is one of the five women featured in the ITV documentary Exposure: The Other Side of Jimmy Savile ten years ago. The award-winning film presented by ex-detective Mark Williams-Thomas, broadcast just over a decade ago on 3 October 2012 - a year after Savile's death - prompted hundreds of other unheard victims to come forward with their experiences. It led to hundreds of other victims coming forward with evidence of their own horrific abuse, with other celebrities including Rolf Harris, Max Clifford and Gary Glitter subsequently being jailed, as well as number of official reports that revealed safeguarding failures at the BBC, NHS and Crown Prosecution Service. The victim, a retired carer in her 60s, told the Mirror: 'Our documentary has made a huge difference to so many lives. I knew I had to get it out there, it was vital that people knew the truth about him. 'Without Mark we wouldnt be where we are now. He had a difficult time getting the documentary to air, but he fought and achieved it. He did not give up on it, nor us five victims.' The victim, whose identity will remain anonymous, was only 15 when she was first raped by Savile ITV documentary The Other Side of Jimmy Savile was presented by former detective Mark Williams-Thomas The Other Side of Jimmy Savile revealed how one of Britain's most loved entertainers systematically and disturbingly preyed upon young and vulnerable girls From police detective to TV journalist: The career of Mark Williams-Thomas In 1989, Williams-Thomas joined Surrey Police - becoming a specialist in major crime and child abuse. He was a family liaison officer and left the force in 2000 From 2003, he began script advising for various television crime dramas which included BBC series Waking The Dead (2007-2011), BBC series Inspector Lynley Mysteries (2007), Channel 5 series Murder Prevention (2004), ITV series Identity and BBC series The Silence. In 2005, Williams-Thomas set up WT Associates, an independent child protection consultancy firm. In 2011 he created and presented a new series on ITV called On the Run. The premise of the series was to track down and confront offenders on the run from the police. The series ran over three seasons. On 3 October 2012, Williams-Thomas presented the documentary The Other Side of Jimmy Savile on ITV, in which five women stated that they had been sexually abused by Savile as teenagers. The exposure of Savile as a paedophile led to extensive media coverage, including 41 days on the front pages. In 2014, he covered the verdict of Oscar Pistorius and was the only British journalist to meet with Pistorius during his trial, writing an exclusive report for the Daily Mirror. Williams-Thomas was the reporter for ITV's crime series The Investigator: A British Crime Story, produced by Simon Cowell's Syco in 2016. 2022: He is a regular reporter on This Morning, Channel 4 News, as well as the ITV series Exposure. Advertisement She was initially excited at the prospect of meeting at the offices of Radio Luxembourg in west London, having watched him regularly present Top of the Pops. But within weeks of meeting him for the first time, Saville invited her to a London hotel and raped her. The woman said: 'He was very flamboyant and said he thought I was OK, thats how the grooming process all started. 'He invited me to different places where there were lots of other people around so it felt safe and exciting.' She added: 'He was much older than me and I didnt know what was happening. I was shocked. Kids in those days didnt talk about sex, I had no idea about anything like that. I was absolutely frightened, it was all so scary and I froze. 'Afterwards he treated me as though I didnt even exist, as though nothing had happened. I was told to go, it was as brutal as that.' The victim said she felt trapped for year and, in 1974, Savile gifted her a copy of his autobiography in which he had penned 'no escape' and signed it 'your keeper'. She described Savile as a 'very good manipulator' who had 'this really, really dark side to him', adding that he would use threats of violence to keep her and other victims quiet. The woman said: 'I know he was connected to the criminal underworld and it was made clear that whatever he did you just did not say anything, you kept your mouth shut. 'I was told at the time he knew the Krays. He menaced us with the presence of minders from the underworld. So it wasnt just abuse that we suffered, but fear for our lives. 'I had to watch him grooming other victims, agonisingly helpless as he gave me the gloating look that told me what lay in store for them later. He was very menacing and you knew that if you wanted to be safe, you kept your mouth shut. 'It was his whole demeanour, you knew if you messed with him that something might happen to you. It wasnt said explicitly, you just knew it. It was frightening.' She broke free in the 1970s, but admits that she is 'still suffering quite badly' and has required counselling. The woman did not reveal the heinous crimes until Mr Williams Thomas came to see her following Savile's death in 2011. She also revealed how Savile had raped her on BBC premises and is angry that the BBC will shortly broadcast The Reckoning, a drama featuring Steve Coogan. A spokesperson for the BBC said: 'The drama will examine the impact Saviles appalling crimes had on victims, the powerlessness many felt when they tried to raise the alarm, and how he used his celebrity to hide in plain sight. 'Were working closely with many people whose lives were impacted by him to ensure their stories are told with sensitivity and respect. The Savile survivor has also revealed how the prolific paedophile had raped her on BBC premises The woman broke free in the 1970s, but admits that she is 'still suffering quite badly' and has required counselling The BBC has been contacted for comment on the victim's allegations. It comes as the investigator who revealed Savile's prolific paedophilia has said that he is working - and has been for some time - on exposing one other well-known living child sex offender. 'There are still people out there who are untouchable,' the former Surrey Police and family liaison officer told the I. 'There is one very significant person who I've done everything to try and get prosecuted because he is clearly a child sex offender. 'To date the CPS won't prosecute. The police and I have tried really hard to get there. He will die in due course and then the floodgates will open in the same way they did with Savile. That's not right. But justice takes many different forms.' He added: 'The truth is no broadcaster would have done a programme about Savile when he was alive. We live in a society where there are some people you can't take on and that's really sad.' A driver on a road trip is bringing Australia's changing medicinal cannabis laws into the spotlight after filming the moment cops waved him through their drug checkpoint despite admitting he'd recently smoked marijuana. Paton and Steeze, two mates and YouTubers from the Gold Coast, were travelling to northern NSW on Friday when they shared a video of their encounter with the random roadside drug test. 'Have you had anything illicit in the last couple of days,' one officer asked the driver through the car window. 'Umm, I'm prescribed medicinal cannabis so yesterday afternoon I had a joint,' the driver replied. The two mates were on a road trip from the Gold Coast to Nimbin when they were stopped for a random roadside drug test (pictured) The police officer then did the test and asked how he ingested the drug. 'I can smoke it or vaporise it,' he replied. After checking his licence and the bottle of medication with a prescription label, the officer told them be on their way. 'I've never seen this legit before... it's usually in a baggie and people say they have a prescription,' the officer remarked. 'Let's go,' the pair cheered as they drove away. The driver, Steeze, 25, told Daily Mail Australia he takes medicinal cannabis for a medical condition. The two friends Paton (left), 22, and Steeze (right), 25, both have medicinal marijuana prescriptions 'I've got epilepsy and it's used to help manage sleep and make sure that I don't get into a situation where I'm not getting enough sleep which can potentially lead to a seizure,' Steeze said. His passenger Paton, 22, also has a prescription for the conditions Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) and Eustachian tube dysfunction (EDT). 'It's just like dizziness which gets really chronic and bad so I got prescription for that to bring down the anxiety after previously being prescribed valium,' he said. Steeze added that he was not high behind the wheel. 'We were confident we would get through the roadside drug test because on the bottle it says, 'if not affected you can drive''. 'We weren't affected, we hadn't smoked on that day, we had a joint the previous day. 'We would never drive under the influence.' The video garnered hundreds of comments from stunned viewers. 'No f***ing way bro,' one person said. 'Is this common in Australia, this is wild,' another added. The pair were travelling to Nimbin for the town's annual Mardi Grass festival. The officer remarked he's never seen 'legit' medicinal marijuana before While recreational marijuana use in Australia is illegal, medicinal cannabis obtained with a prescription from a doctor was legalised in 2016. Driving while directly under the influence of the active component THC is still an offence under Australian laws. The Greens are working on introducing a draft bill to federal parliament later this year that would legalise recreational marijuana use. According to legal advice obtained from the Greens, a commonwealth law could supersede state laws which prevent recreational marijuana use, though such a law would have to pass both houses of parliament. Elementary school students go to school in the morning. Korea Times file by Lee Han-ho By Lee Yeon-woo Kim Geun-sik, an infamous child rapist, will be prohibited from leaving his house in the morning when school starts after his release on Oct. 15. Kim, 54, has served 15 years in prison for raping 11 minors in 2006. According to legal circles, Sunday, the Seoul Southern District Court accepted the prosecution's request to extend Kim's curfew hours from 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. The initial curfew had been from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. This new measure is to prevent any possibility that Kim might try to commit a crime against children or teenagers heading to school in the morning. Additional measures have been added. If Kim fails to secure stable housing, he must live in a place designated by his probation officer. Kim is also obliged to report the details of his whereabouts including destination, period and reasons for leaving to his probation officer and obtain permission before traveling or visiting other regions outside of his residential area. Earlier, Kim was given special measures to follow after his release: the nighttime curfew, no access to facilities for children and youth, and 120 hours of a psychological treatment program. However, the Ministry of Justice requested further measures, as the public living in areas where Kim had committed crimes before felt anxious. Kim was imprisoned in 2000 for raping a minor and released in May 2006. After only 16 days, he raped 11 minors aged nine to 17 until the police arrested him in September. Ministry of Justice has promised to watch Kim closely by assigning him probation officers right after his release to prevent repeated crimes and to relieve public anxiety. The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family will also disclose his photo and address in the government-run sex offender registry system (www.sexoffender.go.kr) on the day of his release. Ministers are planning to create an intelligence unit to track prisoners illegal online posts in the wake of a scandal involving one of Stephen Lawrences killers. The Daily Mail revealed last week how, in an astonishing breach of prison security, murderer David Norris acquired a smartphone and used it to post sickening selfies from his cell. He even used the device to launch a foul-mouthed tirade against former justice secretary Dominic Raab. Now ministers want to create a specialist team to seek out online posts by inmates. It will gather information by scanning social media platforms in a bid to lead prison officials straight to inmates who are breaking the rules. The Daily Mail revealed last week how, in an astonishing breach of prison security, murderer David Norris acquired a smartphone and used it to post sickening selfies from his cell The project is likely to involve the National Crime Agency, dubbed Britains FBI, police and even the security services, it is understood. The scheme will probably use the same technology that is deployed to combat online paedophiles and terrorists, it is thought. Prisoners are banned from having mobile phones in order to prevent them from intimidating victims and witnesses, or running criminal empires from behind bars. In a separate development, ministers are also understood to be considering a review of prisoners access to games consoles after a cell selfie posted by Norris showed an Xbox in the background. Were not suggesting prisoners should languish in their cells with just a book, but there has to be a proper balance, a Government source said. One of Britains most notorious killers, Norris was convicted of 18-year-old Stephens 1993 murder at a bus stop in Eltham, south-east London. He and his racist gang targeted the aspiring architect because of the colour of his skin. The 46-year-old prisoner brazenly posted a picture of himself in his cell wearing Top Gun-style sunglasses and with his TV and games console. He also launched a WhatsApp rant against Mr Raab, who blocked his bid to move to an open prison He also launched a WhatsApp rant against Mr Raab, who blocked his bid to move to an open prison. Norris wrote: Dom Raab your [sic] f***** c*** cos the Nozza is defo home in two [years] and High Court now agrees. Get that party sorted girls cos I be there soon. A whistleblower said Norris bragged to fellow inmates that he was the gang member who stabbed Stephen to death. If true, this is a significant revelation because police are still uncertain who wielded the knife. His breach of the rules could result in him having his minimum jail term of 14 years and three months extended by up to two years. The former gangsters son was placed in the segregation unit at Category C Dartmoor Prison effectively in solitary confinement pending an investigation. Specialist X-ray scanning equipment later discovered a smartphone hidden inside an intimate part of Norriss body. Ministers are believed to reluctantly accept that illegal items, including phones, will find their way into prisons. Contraband is thrown over jail walls, flown in by drone or even smuggled into the prison by corrupt staff. Tracking down online posts by prisoners would reduce the importance of speculative cell searches. Prisoners online bragging would instead be pro-actively traced and used against them. Norris wrote: Dom Raab your [sic] f***** c*** cos the Nozza is defo home in two [years] and High Court now agrees. Get that party sorted girls cos I be there soon' It could even provide material for new prosecutions, it is thought. The Prison Service has invested 125million over the last two years in transforming the way prisons prevent drugs and mobile phones from getting in. A spokesman said the plan involved signal blocking technology and 75 high-resolution X-ray body scanners covering all male prisons. A separate drug test regime aimed at cutting reoffending will come into effect today. All offenders sent to live in halfway house bail hostels will be tested randomly once a week under the rigorous 1.2million scheme. It will focus on criminals whose offences are linked to drug habits, such as burglars who steal to feed their addictions. Failing a test could result in being sent back to jail. Britains largest renewable power station is cutting down carbon-rich forests while receiving billions in green- energy subsidies from UK taxpayers, an investigation claims. Panorama tonight reports how Drax, which generates 12 per cent of the UKs renewable electricity by burning wood pellets at its Yorkshire power station, bought logging licences to cut down two areas of forest in western Canada. The company claims it only used leftover sawdust and waste wood from the forests but the BBC film, titled The Green Energy Scandal Exposed, shows logs from the forest being loaded on to a Drax truck and then unloaded at one of its pellet plants. Britains largest renewable power station is cutting down carbon-rich forests while receiving billions in green- energy subsidies from UK taxpayers, an investigation claims The programme says that Draxs power station burned more than seven million tonnes of imported wood pellets last year and that documents on a Canadian forestry database show that only 11 per cent of logs delivered to two of its pellet plants are the small, twisted or rotten timber the company says it uses. Drax has already received 6billion in green energy subsidies even though burning wood gives off more greenhouse gases than burning coal, Panorama emphasised. The two areas of environmentally important forest in the Canadian province of British Columbia where Drax bought logging licences have never been logged before. One of the sites includes large areas that have been identified as rare, old-growth forest. Draxs own responsible sourcing policy says it will avoid damage or disturbance to primary and old-growth forest. However, satellite pictures show Drax is now cutting down this forest, according to the BBC. Drax has already received 6billion in green energy subsidies even though burning wood gives off more greenhouse gases than burning coal, Panorama emphasised The company told Panorama that logging at this site would reduce the risk of wildfires. The second Drax logging licence is for a mature primary forest that has now been cut down. Drax told the BBC it hadnt cut down the forest itself but transferred the logging licences to other companies. However, the authorities in British Columbia confirmed to Panorama that Drax still holds the licences. Drax later admitted to Panorama that it did use logs from the forest to make wood pellets, claiming they were species the timber industry didnt want. The company also said the sites identified by Panorama werent primary forest because they were near roads, yet the BBC pointed out that there is no mention of proximity to roads in the United Nations definition of primary forest. A Drax spokesman told the BBC that 80 per cent of material in its Canadian pellets is sawmill residuals, which would be disposed of anyway. Last week it emerged that Drax had quietly agreed to pay out millions of dollars to settle air-pollution claims against its wood-pellet factories in the United States, according to an investigation by Unearthed, Greenpeaces investigative unit. A Drax spokesman said: Drax does not harvest forests and has not taken any material directly from the two areas the BBC has looked at. Panorama: The Green Energy Scandal Exposed is on BBC1 at 8pm tonight Neither King Charles nor his son Prince William will attend the Cop27 climate summit after reportedly being advised to stay away by Liz Truss. The monarch was thought to be planning to make a speech at the meeting of world leaders in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, in November. But the Prime Minister, who will also not attend, objected to his plans during an audience at Buckingham Palace last month. And in another surprise, it has emerged that the Prince of Wales, who like his father is also an outspoken environmental campaigner, will not attend the summit - instead focussing on his Earthshot Prize. By contrast, the royal family gathered at Cop26 in Glasgow, with the late Queen giving a heartfelt message about saving the planet. It comes amid growing suspicion that the Government is planning to water down or even abandon its target of 'net zero' carbon emissions by 2050. King Charles III receives Prime Minister Liz Truss in the 1844 Room at Buckingham Palace Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales leave St Thomas Church Tories at war as MP Tobias Ellwood says Liz Truss is wrong to 'ban King Charles' from Cop27 King Charles was urged to attend a climate change summit next month and ignore Liz Truss's advice to stay away today - by one of her own MPs. The new King, a veteran environmental campaigner, reportedly scrapped plans to speak at the COP27 meeting in Egypt after the Prime Minister objected. Last night, Buckingham Palace sources confirmed that Charles was no longer attending the event which he had planned to when he was Prince of Wales. However sources insisted he had not been ordered to stay away by the PM and stressed instead that he had sought the advice of No 10. They said the decision for the King not to attend had been unanimous. But today Tobias Elwood suggested he should consider going anyway. He wrote online: 'I hope common sense will prevail. King Charles is a globally respected voice on the environment and climate change. 'His attendance would add serious authority to the British delegation. Can we really go from hosting COP26 to benching soft power at COP27?' Advertisement The Palace said advice had been sought by the King and was given by Miss Truss. 'With mutual friendship and respect there was agreement that the King would not attend,' the Palace said. But the decision is likely to have disappointed the King, who as Prince of Wales had a long history of campaigning to reduce the effects of climate change. As heir to the throne he also had a reputation for interfering in government business, most recently expressing his distaste for the Government's plan to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda. After the death of his mother, friends insisted he will not cool on the issue of global warming. But as monarch he is obliged to remain politically neutral, and in his address to the nation after the Queen's death, he acknowledged that 'it will no longer be possible to give so much time to the... issues for which I care so deeply'. Before his ascension to the throne last month, King Charles had indicated he would attend the 27th UN Climate Change Conference, known as Cop27, which will run from November 6 to 18. A source told the Daily Mail there had never been any firm plans for the King to go, though he has attended previously, leading to speculation he would again this year. As all foreign visits are undertaken at the request of the British Government, advice was sought by the Palace. The 'unanimous' decision, it has been suggested, is that with so many demands for the King to be deployed abroad, Cop27 would not be the 'right occasion' for his first overseas visit as sovereign. Sources highlighted his address to the nation following his mother's death, in which he stressed that he remains 'ever mindful' of his constitutional role in light of his change of circumstances. As previously highlighted by the Mail, it is understood that the environment will remain central to his work as sovereign. In 2015, he delivered the opening address at Cop21 in Paris, describing climate change as the greatest threat facing humanity. In a hard-hitting speech the King echoed Winston Churchill by calling on 'the few' to take action to save the planet, urging world leaders to commit 'trillions, not billions, of dollars'. Camilla, Queen Consort, King Charles III, Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales pose for a photo He also delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of Cop26 in Glasgow last year, calling on world leaders to adopt a 'warlike footing' to deal with climate change. Although he will not attend Cop27 in person, it is understood he is still determined to make his presence felt, leaving the door open for a virtual appearance. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood said in a tweet that he hoped the King would be allowed to go to Egypt, adding that he was a 'globally respected voice' on the environment whose attendance would add 'serious authority' to the British delegation. While Boris Johnson became an enthusiastic advocate for net zero, Miss Truss is thought to be more sceptical of the green agenda. A government source said: 'The Palace and the Government considered separately, and then agreed jointly, that... he is not going to be attending Cop.' A woman celebrating her 40th birthday on a vacation in paradise with friends was tragically killed when a nail from a collapsing roof pierced her heart during Hurricane Ian. Nishelle Harris-Miles traveled to Fort Myers, Florida, from Dayton, Ohio, just prior to the arrival of the storm, Harris' cousin Chanel Maston told WLWT. Maston said the group used a sheet to try and stay together while water flooded the room. 'We strapped ourselves to each other with a sheet, laid on the mattress. That water came out that floor so fast, so quick. The roof was smashing us.' She continued: 'We tried to kick off the roof and lay on the mattress. It kicked off that roof, so that roof wouldn't smash us and the roof went, and we went.' During the carnage Maston that posted videos on Facebook and checked in with family members back in Ohio to assure them that the group was safe. She added: 'We started calling people before the water really started rising. We called 911. We called 211. We called everybody to get us out of there, and nobody came.' The relentless wind and rain continued to pummel the home's roof until it finally gave way, trapping Harris-Miles and puncturing a major artery. On Sunday, a balloon release took place in honor of Harris-Miles at her home Dayton in Dayton, her daughter wrote in a Facebook page Nishelle Harris-Miles traveled to Fort Myers, Florida, from Dayton, Ohio, just prior to the arrival of Hurricane Ian Harris-Miles' cousin paid tribute to her saying: 'She loved everything. She loved life' Her cousin said: 'She got trapped under. A nail pierced her main artery. She just turned 40 on September 23. She just turned 40.' She died on September 29. According to Facebook posts, the rest of her party were able to fly home in September 30. Her remains are still in Florida. The group was trapped in the home for 14 hours before they were rescued. Maston paid tribute saying: 'She loved everything. She loved life.' That sentiment was echoed on Harris-Miles' Facebook page where she wrote: 'I love to have fun, enjoy myself, you only live once.' On that profile she adds: 'If it don't make dollars then it don't make sense.' Raw video from Harris-Miles' cousin showed the rapidly rising floodwaters around the home where the group was staying The death toll in Florida was expected to keep rising as floodwaters receded and search teams pushed farther into areas initially cut off from the outside world On Sunday, a balloon release took place in honor of Harris-Miles at her home Dayton in Dayton, her daughter wrote in a Facebook page. A friend wrote of the victim on Facebook: 'I love you sister and I pray the heavens enjoy your company as much as we did. You were definitely the life of the party.' The post continued: 'Your spirit will definitely resonate with us until we meet again.' Another friend wrote: 'I'm so glad we spent your birthday with you. I'm so glad I told you I loved you before we left. I will forever miss you.' The death toll from Hurricane Ian climbed past 80 on Sunday as embattled residents in Florida and the Carolinas faced a recovery expected to cost tens of billions of dollars, and some officials faced criticism over their response to the storm. The death toll was expected to keep rising as floodwaters receded and search teams pushed farther into areas initially cut off from the outside world. Hundreds of people have been rescued as emergency workers sifted through homes and buildings inundated with water or completely washed away. The storm weakened Saturday as it rolled into the mid-Atlantic, but not before it washed out bridges and piers, hurdled massive boats into buildings onshore and sheared roofs off homes, leaving hundreds of thousands without power. The bulk of the deaths confirmed in Florida were from drowning in storm waters, but others from Ian's tragic aftereffects. An older couple died when they lost power and their oxygen machines shut off, authorities said. As of Saturday, more than 1,000 people had been rescued from flooded areas along Florida's southwestern coast alone, Daniel Hokanson, a four-star general and head of the National Guard, said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Saturday that multibillionaire businessman Elon Musk was providing some 120 Starlink satellites to 'help bridge some of the communication issues.' Starlink, a satellite-based internet system created by Musk's SpaceX, will provide high-speed connectivity. Florida utilities were working to restore power. As of Sunday morning, nearly 850,000 homes and businesses were still without electricity, down from a peak of 2.67 million. In Washington, the White House announced that President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden would travel to Florida on Wednesday. But a brief statement did not release any details of the planned visit. The bridge to Pine Island, the largest barrier island off Florida's Gulf Coast, was destroyed by the storm, leaving it accessible only by boat or air. The volunteer group Medic Corps, which responds to natural disasters worldwide with pilots, paramedics and doctors, went door-to-door asking residents if they wanted to be evacuated. Some flew out by helicopter, and people described the horror of being trapped in their homes as water kept rising. Chris Schnapp was at the Port Sanibel Marina in Fort Myers on Saturday, waiting to see whether her 83-year-old mother-in-law had been evacuated from Sanibel Island. A pontoon boat arrived carrying a load of passengers from the island with suitcases and animals in tow but Schnapp's mother-in-law was not among them. 'She stayed on the island. My brother-in-law and sister-in-law own two businesses over there. They evacuated. She did not want to go,' Schnapp said. Now, she said, she wasn't sure if her mother-in-law was still on the island or had been taken to a shelter somewhere. On Pine Island, the largest barrier island off Florida's Gulf Coast, houses were reduced to splinters and boats littered roadways as a volunteer rescue group went door-to-door, asking residents if they wanted to be evacuated. People described the horror of being trapped in their homes as water kept rising. 'The water just kept pounding the house and we watched, boats, houses we watched everything just go flying by,' Joe Conforti said as he fought back tears. He said if it wasn't for his wife, who suggested they get up on a table to avoid the rising water, he wouldn't have made it: 'I started to lose sensibility, because when the water's at your door and it's splashing on the door and you're seeing how fast it's moving, there's no way you're going to survive that.' A former CIA director warned that the US and NATO allies would destroy Russian forces if Russian President Vladimir Putin used nuclear weapons in his war with Ukraine. David Petraeus appeared on ABC's 'This Week' Sunday, where he said the nuclear threats by Putin need to be taken seriously, and that the ruler is 'desperate' as the 'battlefield reality he faces is irreversible.' Putin signed a decree earlier this week to illegally annex parts of Ukraine. Days later, however, Russia was forced to withdraw troops from the strategically important Lyman located in one of the four Ukrainian regions that Russia annexed. While signing the decree, Putin also condemned the 'Satanic' West and vowed to use all of the Kremlin's might to protect Russia's new territory. The remark was widely seen as a nuclear threat. Petraeus said that, even though Ukraine is not a NATO country, a 'US and NATO response' would be in order. He told host Jonathan Karl that the likelihood that radiation from a nuclear weapon would extend to a NATO country could perhaps be construed as an attack on a NATO member. 'This is so horrific that there has to be a response it cannot go unanswered.' 'Just to give you a hypothetical, we would respond by leading a NATO a collective effort that would take out every Russian conventional force that we can see and identify on the battlefield in and also in Crimea and every ship in the Black Sea.' Former CIA director David Petraeus appeared on ABC's ' This Week' where he warned that the US and NATO allies would destroy Russian forces if Russian President Vladimir Putin used nuclear weapons in his war with Ukraine Russian President Vladimir Putin faces an "irreversible" situation amid the country's land grab in Ukraine, retired Army general and former CIA chief David Petraeus tells @JonKarl. He is losing." https://t.co/KirRWvZHMA pic.twitter.com/yr3UGZB6KZ This Week (@ThisWeekABC) October 2, 2022 Ukraine claimed full control of the eastern logistics hub of Lyman on Sunday. The area is it most significant battlefield gain from Russia in weeks, providing a potential staging post for further attacks to the east while heaping further pressure on the Kremlin. Russia likely experienced heavy casualties during the withdrawal. Russia had 5,000 to 5,500 troops in the town before the Ukrainian attack, a Ukrainian military spokesman said on Saturday. More than 60,000 Russian troops have been killed in the war that is now entering its eighth month. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the capture of the town, where Ukrainian flags were raised over civic buildings on Saturday, demonstrated that Ukraine is capable of dislodging Russian forces and showed the impact Ukraine's deployment of advanced Western weapons was having on the conflict. 'President Zelensky and Ukraine have mobilized vastly better than has Russia,' Petraeus said on Sunday. 'Ukraine has recruited, trained, equipped, organized and employed forces incomparably better than Russia has.' 'The battlefield reality he faces is, I think, irreversible,' he said. 'No amount of shambolic mobilization, which is the only way to describe it; no amount of annexation; no amount of even veiled nuclear threats can actually get him out of this particular situation. 'At some point there's going to have to be recognition of that. At some point there's going to have to be some kind of beginning of negotiations, as President Zelensky has said, will be the ultimate end.' However, Petreaus pointed out that 'Russia got hit by a thousand more individual, personal, and other sanctions' in response to the annexation, 'showing that the west still has more that can be done to Russia.' He continued with a warning: 'It can still get worse for Putin and for Russia. And even the use of tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield won't change this at all.' But added: 'You have to take the threat seriously.' Petraeus also said he did not see how Russia could win at this point. 'They cannot. There is nothing he [Putin] can do at this point.' Petraeus' remarks come after Putin on Friday proclaimed the annexation of four regions covering nearly a fifth of Ukraine, as the war enters its eighth month He told co-anchor Jonathan Karl that the likelihood that radiation from a nuclear weapon would extend to a Nato country could perhaps be construed as an attack on a Nato member You have to take the threat seriously, former CIA director David Petraeus tells @JonKarl as Russian Pres. Putin escalates war in Ukraine with fresh nuclear threats. https://t.co/42Hrmso8HU pic.twitter.com/alhbBqHBjR This Week (@ThisWeekABC) October 2, 2022 Earlier Sunday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin dismissed Putin's nuclear threats as 'saber rattling' but condemned the autocrat for continuing to upend the global order. 'There are no checks on Mr. Putin. Just as he made the irresponsible decision to invade Ukraine, you know, he could make another decision,' Austin told Fareed Zakaria GPS. 'But I don't see anything right now that would lead me to believe that he has made such a decision.' Videos appeared to show Russian troops forcing Ukrainian civilians to the ballot box at gunpoint to vote on whether to join Moscow's jurisdiction. 'As you've heard us say, this referendum is a sham. It's fiction. And we will never respect their illegal annexation of Ukraine territory, and nor will most of the international community,' Austin said on Sunday. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Vladimir Putin's nuclear threat is 'irresponsible' but predicted the autocrat was unlikely to follow through Austin branded Putin's veiled nuclear threat 'irresponsible.' 'This nuclear saber rattling is not the kind of thing that we would expect to hear from leaders of large countries with capability,' the Pentagon chief said. He acknowledged high-level talks between Washington and Moscow on matter, but Austin said he has not spoken to his Russian counterpart 'in recent days.' 'I have addressed this very issue and warned to not go down this path and conduct this type of irresponsible behavior,' Austin said. 'So, yes, I have done that in the past personally, but I've not talked to him recently.' Petreaus told ABC that he had not spoken to national security adviser Jake Sullivan on the likely US response to nuclear escalation from Russia. He explained that if Russian forces used nuclear weapons in Ukraine, it would not be a situation triggering the alliance's Article 5, which calls for a collective defense. That is because Ukraine is not part of NATO but still, a 'US and NATO response' would be in order. For several months, the Russian army stood close to the northern outskirts of Kharkiv, shelling the area with heavy weapons. Most of the houses in the district were damaged or destroyed, in Kharkiv, on October 1, 2022 Russia likely experienced heavy casualties during their recent withdrawal. Russia had 5,000 to 5,500 troops in the town before the Ukrainian attack, a Ukrainian military spokesman said on Saturday The Ukrainian military said in its evening statement on Sunday that its forces had repelled Russian advances in several areas particularly in the Donetsk region near Bakhmut and Spirne, just inside Donetsk region near Lysychansk, a major center in neighboring Luhansk region. Russian forces had captured Lyman from Ukraine in May and had been using it as a logistics and transport hub for its operations in the north of the Donetsk region. Its recapture by Ukrainian troops is Russia's largest battlefield loss since Ukraine's lightning counteroffensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region in September. Control over Lyman could prove a 'key factor' in helping Ukraine reclaim lost territory in the neighboring Luhansk region, whose full capture Moscow announced in early July after weeks of grinding advances, Luhansk governor Serhiy Gaidai said. A Ukrainian soldier patrols in the recently retaken railway station in Kupiansk Vuzlovyi, Kharkiv region, on October 2. More than 60,000 Russian troops have been killed in the war that is now entering its eighth month The Opposition is asking questions over federal government plans to bring home dozens of Australian women and children from detention camps in Syria. The Labor government is set to implement a rescue plan to bring 16 women and 42 children who are the families of Islamic State members and have been held in al-Roj detention camp in northeast Syria near the Iraqi border. A secret ASIO mission into Syria has cleared the way for the families to be repatriated to Australia, The Australian reported on Monday. They have been held in detention for three and a half years following the fall of Islamic State in March 2019. Some of the women say they were taken to the Middle East against their will. Opposition home affairs spokeswoman Karen Andrews says she didn't give the green light when she was the relevant minister in government due to the risk of sending Australia officials to war-torn regions and radicalisation concerns. The Labor government is set to implement a rescue plan to bring 16 women and 42 children who are families of Islamic State members and have been held in al-Roj detention camp in northeast Syria near the Iraqi border (pictured, women in northeastern Syria in 2019) Opposition home affairs spokeswoman Karen Andrews (pictured) says she didn't give the rescue mission a green light when she was the relevant minister in government 'There was always a very strong view women, in particular, went there by choice... and they were complicit, generally, in the role they were expected to play... to support ISIS and foreign fighters,' she told the ABC. Ms Andrews said bringing them back to Australia 'posed an unnecessary risk and enormous cost' to have these people in the community. 'I've seen nothing to alter my view,' she said. Federal frontbencher Tanya Plibersek said it was important the women and children receive counselling upon their arrival. 'We have about 40 Australian kids living in one of the most dangerous places on earth in a refugee camp,' she told the Seven Network. 'Some of the women, the mothers, were taken there as little more than children themselves and married off to (Islamic State) fighters. Some of them were tricked, some of them were forced to go there.' A top secret spy mission to refugee camps in Syria has paved the way for stranded Islamic State brides and their children to return to Australia - reversing a years-long ban by the Australian government (ISIS fighters pictured) Federal frontbencher Tanya Plibersek (pictured) said it was important the women and children rescued from east Syria receive counselling upon their arrival in Australia Many women who fled Australia to marry ISIS fighters or join their husbands, said they were coerced into leaving (pictured, an Iraqi refugee at the al-Hol camp in 2017) The Labor minister said there would be an expectation that security organisations would stay in contact and monitor those repatriated. But Ms Andrews said control orders giving Australian authorities surveillance powers were not easy to get and maintain. Her colleague and Opposition immigration spokesman Dan Tehan said it appeared the security situation had changed to allow for the repatriation after the reported ASIO mission. But he added that anyone who had broken the law, such as going to declared zones where the Australian government had banned visits, should face prosecution. Up to 16 woman and 42 children being held in northeastern Syria's al-Roj detention camp near the Iraqi border, will be repatriated in the coming days (pictured, northeastern Syria in 2019) Kamalle Dabboussy pictured with his daughter Mariam Dabboussy (right) and her daughters Aisha (left) and Fatema in al-Hawl camp in northeastern Syria 'If they have broken the law, yes they should be charged,' he told Sky News. Ms Andrews said she expected some would be charged and imprisoned upon their return to Australia. Independent senator Jacqui Lambie questioned why the report had come out in the newspaper before the mission was complete. 'This is actually quite surprising by ASIO to say that they're going to do this when they haven't done it yet,' she told the Nine Network. She also questioned why the government hadn't been able to bring over Afghan interpreters facing prosecution by the Taliban for helping allied forces during the war. 'They seem to have given up on (them),' she said. In 2019, then Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton played down the prospect of repatriation, saying some of the women had the potential 'to come back here and cause a mass casualty event'. Most of the Australians that had ventured off to join the fight or support the cause were either killed in action or fled to refugee camps (pictured, al-Hol refugee camp Syria 2017) The Australian government had a hardline policy of refusing citizens re-entry - stripping many of their passports under tough anti-terror laws (pictured, al-Hol refugee camp Syria 2019) A spokesman for Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said any decision on repatriation is informed by national security advice 'So it would not be appropriate to comment further', the ABC quoted the spokesperson as saying. Save the Children Australia chief executive Matt Tinkler has been campaigning for the women and children to be repatriated, and told the ABC it would be 'welcome news' if they were returned. 'These are innocent children and families that have been in these camps for more than 3.5 years now,' he said. 'Children have died in these camps over the last few years. I saw firsthand for myself that some of the Australian children are severely malnourished and have suffered significant mental harm. 'Their repatriation can't come soon enough.' The Greek prime minister is hopeful King Charles will aid his latest bid to return the Elgin Marbles to Athens. Kyriakos Mitsotakis believes Britain is edging closer to handing back the sculptures and will raise the issue with Liz Truss on a visit to London later this year. The 2,500-year-old marbles were taken from the Parthenon between 1801 and 1812 by Lord Elgin, ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. The Greeks say they were stolen, but the British Museum Act 1963 prevents ownership of artefacts being transferred from the museum. The Greek prime minister is hopeful King Charles will aid his latest bid to return the Elgin Marbles to Athens (pictured on display in the British Museum in 2020) Mr Mitsotakis, 54, told The Sunday Times he had a 'good personal relationship' with King Charles and believes he is supportive. The King, he said, has 'a Greek heritage which he values and cherishes', adding: 'I think the mood is changing in the UK.' It has emerged that Greek businessman John Lefas, 71, is investing millions to fly British MPs to Athens to lobby them to overturn UK law and allow the marbles' return. Lord Vaizey, a former Tory culture minister, has already taken the trip as part of the Parthenon Project, The Sunday Telegraph reported. Huge numbers of Britons in their 50s have failed to return to work since the pandemic, prompting alarm within Government. A minister admitted yesterday that the drop is a big worry area. Some older employees are thought to have long Covid while others have reassessed their work-life balance. Work and Pensions minister Victoria Prentis told a conference fringe meeting: We need their skills, we need their experience... we desperately need them back. Work and Pensions minister Victoria Prentis admitted yesterday that the drop is a big worry area. Some older employees are thought to have long Covid while others have reassessed their work-life balance She called on bosses to offer more flexibility. According to the Office for National Statistics, there were 386,096 more economically inactive adults aged 50 to 64 this spring than before Covid struck. Mrs Prentis revealed that just last week she had hosted a series of round-table meetings with employers to find out what they can do to encourage people back who may be looking after children as well as elderly parents. We do have twin pressures on us, it doesnt mean we cant work, doesnt mean we cant work full-time, but we do possibly require a little understanding about it, she told a fringe meeting. She said bosses should do more to allow staff to work flexibly for the sake of their families, not just in terms for working from home but also in the hours they put in and what time they start and clock off. I remember you not only have the financial costs [of childcare], you also have the sheer grinding exhaustion of having to get everybody up and out and lunchboxes packed very early in the morning, which does take its toll, she said. It should have been a political honeymoon for Liz Truss this week. Just a month since being anointed as the new Tory leader, and after delivering the biggest tax-cutting Budget in decades, the Prime Minister might reasonably have felt entitled to a warm welcome at this weeks Conservative Party conference. But some guests at this family gathering in Birmingham did not get the memo. Michael Gove may have pledged to be stepping back from frontline politics, but he has a funny way of showing it. The former Cabinet minister is due to speak at no fewer than nine fringe events this week, and judging by yesterdays appearances, none of them is likely to be helpful to the Government. Just a month since being anointed as the new Tory leader, and after delivering the biggest tax-cutting Budget in decades, the Prime Minister might reasonably have felt entitled to a warm welcome at this weeks Conservative Party conference But the new Tory party leader and Prime Minister has been criticised by many of her former colleagues and cabinet ministers including Michael Gove Before the conference had even started he popped up on Laura Kuenssbergs flagship BBC chat show to pass judgment. Whether by accident or design, Mr Gove was positioned directly in Miss Trusss eye line. Every time she looked up, there he was, waiting to deliver a withering verdict. He did not hold back. Unfunded tax cuts in the emergency Budget were un-Conservative, he said. Miss Truss had made a series of mistakes and it was time for a reset. The decision to axe the 45p top tax rate was a display of the wrong values. Would he even vote for the Budget? He suggested not, saying: I dont believe its right. Michael Gove may have pledged to be stepping back from frontline politics, but he has a funny way of showing it In a five-minute appearance, Mr Gove effectively appointed himself as leader of the Tory Partys Truss-sceptic MPs. The naked criticism of the new PM on the opening day of her first conference as leader did not land well with her supporters. One source said: Michael Gove is the jackal of British politics, always seeking another carcass to feast on, adding: He stabbed Boris in the back on two occasions and now hes at it again with Liz. With friends like him, who needs the Labour Party? So what is he up to? Some allies of the PM believe Mr Gove is seeking to stir up opposition against her in the hope of engineering a situation in which Rishi Sunak would be acclaimed by Tory MPs as her successor, without the need for a leadership contest. One No 10 insider described the plan as deluded, saying: If he really thinks he can just manoeuvre Rishi into position without a contest then he is even more deluded than I thought. Another Truss ally said: He needs to understand that the public will not forgive the Conservative Party if it despatches two leaders in quick succession. Downing Street is braced for more former ministers voicing criticism in the coming days Mr Sunak is not here in Birmingham, having let it be known that he is skipping the conference to give the new PM all the space she needs to own the moment. But supporters of the PM believe he has despatched his outriders to do his work for him. All of this is flatly denied by Mr Gove as is a suggestion from former business minister Anna Soubry yesterday that he still hopes for another tilt at the leadership himself. One friend of Mr Gove said: He is just doing what he thinks is right. I think he is speaking for an awful lot of MPs, but he is not co-ordinating with anybody. As for the idea that he is pushing to be leader himself, it is just nonsense he has already ruled it out publicly. Downing Street is braced for more former ministers voicing criticism in the coming days. George Osborne crept out of the woodwork last night to say it was touch and go whether Kwasi Kwarteng could survive unless he backed down over the 45p top tax rate. If Kwarteng and Miss Truss are to have any chance of winning over their rebellious MPs let alone the public and financial markets it had better be good And its not just Sunak-ites sniffing the possibility that the new PM might fall by the wayside. Some supporters of Boris Johnson cling to the hope that he could be recalled to office if Miss Truss were to stumble. Former culture secretary Nadine Dorries, one of Mr Johnsons most ardent admirers, was quick to twist the knife yesterday when Miss Truss appeared to blame Mr Kwarteng for the 45p controversy, saying it was a decision the Chancellor made. In a message on Twitter, she said: One of Boris Johnsons faults was that he could sometimes be too loyal. However, there is a balance and throwing your Chancellor under a bus on the first day of conference really isnt it. Rachel Wolf, the co-author of the Tories 2019 manifesto, said the Truss government rejected everything that Boris won the last election on. The truth is that jitters about last weeks Budget run deep among Tory MPs already nervous that they face losing their seats. One Cabinet minister said Miss Truss had only a five per cent chance of winning the next election, adding: Things have gone downhill so fast. Its very hard to see a way back. Conservative Party chairman Jake Berry warned yesterday that any MP voting against the 45p cut would be suspended from the party but his statement only prompted more potential rebels to come forward publicly. At ten past four this afternoon, Mr Kwarteng will rise to address the conference, in the most closely-watched conference speech by a Chancellor for many years. If he and Miss Truss are to have any chance of winning over their rebellious MPs let alone the public and financial markets it had better be good. Stocks of festive turkeys could be at risk if the worst bird flu outbreak in UK history spreads, farmers warn. More than three million birds have been culled so far and poultry producers are growing increasingly concerned about their livestock. Special protection zones to try to contain the disease have been set up in Norfolk, Suffolk, parts of Essex and the whole of the South West of England. Stocks of festive turkeys could be at risk if the worst bird flu outbreak in UK history spreads James Mottershead, chairman of the National Farmers' Union poultry board, said: 'If bird flu gets into turkeys that could cause holy carnage; that could cause real supply chain issues in the run-up to Christmas. I know of some instances where seasonal turkey producers have been affected.' Farms which have an outbreak and are classed as infected could have to stop raising birds for up to a year, he added. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said around one billion birds a year are produced by British farmers and officials were working to 'eradicate the disease as quickly as possible'. More than three million birds have been culled so far and poultry producers are growing increasingly concerned about their livestock Other farmed birds, such as ducks, are also at risk. For example, James Coleman, who runs Creedy Carver farm, in Devon, has had to cull 20,000 ducks. 'At the moment everybody in the industry is just on tenterhooks constantly,' he told Sky News. He said there needs to be a 'massive review' on how Defra deals with the outbreak, and called for financial aid to farmers who lose birds and are forced to shut down when the infection is detected. Paul St Pierre, conservation officers at the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, said there has already been a massive impact on wild birds. 'We've seen declines of between 50 per cent and 80 per cent of the population of Great Skua in the UK and we hold two-thirds of the world population, so that species has gone straight onto the red list,' he said. 'These birds are long-lived you're talking about birds that don't even start breeding for five years and then they only have one chick per year, so it might take decades before some of these populations recover.' Representatives from the ruling People Power Party, the central government and the Prime Minister's Office, hold a high-level discussion at the Prime Minister's official residence in central Seoul, Monday, to seek ways to restructure the central government. Joint Press Corps. By Ko Dong-hwan Representatives of the central government, Prime Minister's Office and the ruling party on Monday discussed how to reorganize the central government according to the campaign pledges made by President Yoon Suk-yeol, including the shutdown of the gender equality and family ministry and the launch of a new agency catering to ethnic Koreans living abroad. The high-level discussion at the prime minister's official residence in Seoul's Jongno District ended with the participants agreeing to "most of the subjects that were tabled," according to the ruling People Power Party's (PPP) spokesperson Yang Geum-hee. "The issues included what President Yoon had pledged (before being elected in last March)," she said. The meeting was joined by the PPP's interim chief, Rep. Chung Jin-suk, its floor leader Rep. Joo Ho-young, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, Deputy Prime Minister Choo Kyung-ho and senior presidential secretaries. The participants discussed shutting down the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family as well as the launch of a new space agency and another new agency dedicated to serving ethnic Koreans living abroad. The exact role of that agency remains unclear. The proposals were all pledged by Yoon while he was running for president. Yang said that as soon as the central government and the party reach a complete agreement on the latest revisions on restructuring the central government, the terms will be proposed at the National Assembly. "We'll take the proposals to the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea and take note of what they have to say," the spokesperson added. Monday's meeting also focused on ways to address the chronic issue of late-night taxi hailers finding it difficult to grab a ride due to poor working conditions of taxi drivers. Officials from the Seoul Metropolitan Government help people get a taxi late at night on May 12 near Gangnam Station in Seoul. Hailing a taxi in the capital late at night became increasingly difficult after the number of cabbies dropped due to waning demand following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Yonhap The issue came to the fore after demand for taxis took a dive when the COVID-19 outbreak hit the country in early 2020, threatening drivers' livelihoods. Many of the drivers, either working for taxi companies or privately, left the profession to work as food delivery workers, demand for which skyrocketed during the pandemic. Even among those who still drive taxis, many are seniors and reluctant to work late at night, reducing the supply of taxi drivers around midnight and into the early morning hours. Also, late night taxi drivers often turned down many customers and accepted only those traveling long distances who pay more money, leading to complaints among the public. One of the measures that was agreed on during Monday's meeting was to hike the fee for clients requesting late night taxis and arrange for the money to go directly to the drivers instead of going through taxi operating companies. Another measure was to deregulate the country's taxi industry by repealing the enforcement of mandatory days off for drivers so they can work as much as they want. "The most imperative condition we saw in the meeting was the need to provide a good working environment for late night taxi drivers," said Sung Il-jong from the PPP's policy committee. "We also agreed to keep the current taxi services as unaffected as possible by our latest measures by not raising fees for daytime users, but only raising fees for late night taxi customers." The meeting's outcome on improving the taxi service is to be announced by the transport ministry on Tuesday. Meteorologists are warning of an eight-day rain event with dangerous thunderstorms and flooding expected to hit 'virtually all' Australia. Monster supercell storms and intense rain are predicted to lash most of the east coast on Wednesday, bringing renewed flooding risks for NSW, Queensland and Victoria. Sky News Meteorologist Rob Sharpe said two significant rain bands dragging moisture from the Indian Ocean is expected to gather more moisture as it makes its way east, producing between 50 and 100mm of rain. Monster supercell storms and intense rain are predicted to lash most of the east coast on Wednesday bringing renewed flooding risks for NSW, Queensland and Victoria 'Over the next few days, it'll edge east and will intensify through outback Queensland, outback NSW and northern Victoria as we head towards Wednesday,' Mr Sharpe said. 'As the next system comes through on Thursday, it will link up with the moisture already sitting there, producing a band of rain and storms on Friday.' 'Due to the strong nature of the upper-level disturbance we are going to see heavy rain and probably a low-pressure system charging down and across NSW,' Mr Sharpe said. 'The last event for this system is likely to be the strongest and lead to some of the heaviest rainfall.' Between 50 to 100mm of rain is predicted to fall across northern Victoria, much of NSW and into the outback of Queensland from Wednesday through to Monday. 'It's all about the Murray Daley system where we're expecting a big rain event to unfold and widespread major riverine flooding, which is unfortunately likely to flood many homes over the coming weeks and months,' Mr Sharpe said. Bureau of Meteorology expert Jonathan How said the heaviest falls would come with thunderstorms. 'For the west and centre of the country, this weather is unseasonable,' Mr How said. 'This upcoming widespread rainfall will bring a renewed flooding risk particularly for communities already impacted by flooded rivers across eastern Australia.' Between 50 to 100mm of rain is predicted to fall across northern Victoria, much of NSW and into the outback of Queensland from Wednesday through to Monday (pictured, Skynews Meteorologist Rob Sharpe) Weatherzone's forecast said the series of weather systems could deliver rain to 'virtually all parts of Australia'. 'Numerous weather systems are expected to impact the country in the next 10 days (starting September 26) or so, including a low pressure trough which could deliver significant unseasonable rainfall,' Weatherzone's forecast read. Bourke in regional NSW could break its record for average daily rainfall in October, with more than 50mm of rain forecast to fall on Wednesday, with Sydney coping 30mm on Saturday. Melbourne is forecasted to cop 20mm of rain on Friday with the state issued a minor to moderate flood warning for the Murray and Edward Rivers. Brisbane will remain relatively dry with one to 10mm of rain predicted between Wednesday and Sunday. However, southern parts of the sunshine state including Thargomindah and Cunnamulla are forecasted to receive between 20 and 50mm of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday. Showers and storms are predicted in the Northern Territory from Tuesday through to Sunday bringing between three to 15mm of rain. From Wednesday through to Saturday, Canberra will be drenched with showers with four to 20mm of rainfall. #Rain and storms extend across #Australia this week, bringing a renewed #flood risk to the eastern states. Further weather systems will move through into next weekend, bringing additional widespread rain to the east. Latest forecasts and warnings: https://t.co/MFqTo1ZCWa pic.twitter.com/t3ffVHyhMW Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) October 2, 2022 The series of weather systems could deliver rain to 'virtually all parts of Australia' (pictured, Bureau of Meteorology total rainfall map for this coming Thursday) Tasmania is expected to remain relatively dry with scattered showers predicted through the week bringing one to six millimetres of rain, with SES urging residents to prepare their properties for high winds and heavy rainfall. SES Acting Director Leon Smith said the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting wind gusts of up to 90km/hr across the northwest of Tasmania, including over King Island, which is an unusual wind direction for the state. 'With wet soil on the ground at the moment, this wind speed in this direction could mean we see trees falling,' Mr Leon Smith. 'Now is the time to prepare your property, and complete any of those nagging maintenance jobs that you've been putting off. 'It's likely that some rivers around Northern Tasmania will rise. 'Tasmanians need to be aware that this weather is coming, and they need to prepare accordingly.' 'This means knowing your flood risk and understanding whether your street and home are prone to flooding.' Experts have renewed flood warnings and are urging residents to prepare their homes for the wild weather (pictured, vehicle submerged in floodwaters near Dungog, NSW on September 22) Adelaide is predicted to receive between 10 to 20mm of rain on Tuesday, while Perth will see some showers on Wednesday with a possible 8mm of rainfall and scattered showers in parts of the state. It comes as the unseasonal and 'rare drenching' smashed rainfall records in parts of Western Australia - with Derby, which has an average of 1 to 2 mm of rain in September and October, receiving 85mm. While in Queensland, temperatures plummeted to record-breaking lows with some places experiencing their coldest October day in 31 years. On Sunday, residents in the southeast of the state braved their way through a chilly start to the month with temperatures dropping to as much as 12 degrees bellow average. Bundaberg had its coldest day in at least 31 years, Gold Coast broke a 25-year low dating back to 1997 and Brisbane experiences its coldest October day in 23 years. A call centre in the Philippines has been dramatically raided after innocent Aussies lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in a high-level superannuation scam. Investigators interrupted up to 30 operators working in a call centre in Metro Manila as they phoned dozens of unknowing Australians in the hopes they could be tricked into handing over their hard-earned super funds. The scammers from the phoney 'ASAL Group' operated by reading victims a detailed script that promised better returns on their super and by 'cloning' the details of a legitimate company owned by financial services company AMP. Victims were told to 'check out' a professional website with others going as far as depositing money into a seemingly legitimate ANZ account, the ABC's 7:30 reports. The scammers, who sat in cubicles wearing headsets, would gather information on their victims by asking questions about their lifestyle and spending habits. One unlucky victim was Rob Wade, whose own daughter was also nearly entangled in the same cruel scam. The Queensland builder lost $200,000. A call centre in the Phillipines has been dramatically raided after innocent Aussies lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in a high-level superannuation scam (pictured) Speaking to the ABC, Mr Wade said he had only realised he might have been scammed six weeks after transferring the hefty sum to an ANZ account, that was actually run by the scammers. He said he was contacted by a phone number with an NSW area code and spoke to a man scammer named Justin, who he said had an Australian accent. Justin, who Mr Wade said had extensive knowledge of super funds, recommended the builder switch to a 'high-performing product' they used with Morgan Stanley, a well-known investment and financial services company in the US. However, Mr Wade's hard-earned dollars would never reach the superior 'self-managed super fund' that Justin and his colleague had raved about. 'When I actually got the bank account details, which we had to transfer the money into, I thought it was an Australian bank, ANZ. It can't be a scam,' Mr Wade said. 'They actually supplied me with an app, and you can see everything on the app, what was going on, showed me what the money was doing.' His daughter, Rebecca, believes she was also targeted by the scammers. She had considered switching to ASAL Group, but it was flagged by her fund AMP, who asked if she had filled out a rollover form. Ms Wade now believes the form was forged by the fake financial planners and feels grateful she wasn't left in the same predicament as her father. 'I physically felt ill, just knowing that, you know, my super fund luckily had been stopped but my parents' entire super fund had been taken,' she said. The scammers, who sat in cubicles wearing headsets, would gather information on their victim's by asking questions about their lifestyle and spending habits (pictured, the raid) A third victim, Louie Rinaldi, lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Like Mr Wade, he went to the effort of doing his own detailed checks, but still had his funds stolen shortly after they were transferred to the ANZ account. Mr Rinaldi said a detective with the Victorian Police said his money was likely moved either overseas or converted into cryptocurrency in just 24 hours. 'Some people could say it was my fault. I openly sent that money,' he said. 'But I was obviously scammed and I was scammed by some very, very, very clever people that have a lot of resources behind them.' In a statement, ANZ said the matter had been reported to Victoria Police after the institution became aware of the ASAL Group scam. Up to six Australians have fallen victim to the scam, with Ken Gamble, the head of private intelligence firm IFW Global, travelling to Manila to oversee the raid and represent the six whose lives had been devastated by scammers. He and armed officers from the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group witnessed the search warrant with material from seized computers still being investigated, along with the roles of up to 30 phone operators. Louie Rinaldi (pictured) lost several hundred thousand dollars in the superannuation scam Following the raid, officers visited the home of a British man living in Manila, who is alleged to be involved with the running of the call centre. No charges have been laid on him, or any of the phone operators, however their role in scams targeting Australians will continue to be investigated. An AMP spokesperson told the ABC: 'We are sorry to hear the experience of people who fell victim to this scam.' 'Of the five AMP customers that fell victim to the scam, AMP was able to recover or reimburse funds for all but one,' they said. 'In instances where people are concerned they may have been scammed, it is critical to contact their financial institution as quickly as possible to increase the chances of funds being recovered.' The gang allegedly blackmailed the family by holding him to a 400k random A spokesman from the NCA said five men and a woman have been charged Last week police officers conducted raids in south-east London to rescue him The kidnapped man was said to have been beaten over an unpaid debt quarrel British police have busted an Albanian gang after they allegedly kidnapped a 30-year-old man for four days and held him to ransom in London for 400,000. The man was said to have been beaten and tortured during the kidnap in east London after debts hadn't been paid. The Metropolitan Police, National Crime Agency (NCA) and Albanian police conducted raids last week to rescue him. A spokesman from the NCA said five men and a woman had been charged for offences including kidnap, false imprisonment and threat to kill. British police have busted an Albanian gang after they allegedly kidnapped a 30-year-old man for four days and held him to ransom in London for 400,000 (file image) Albanian Police said seven people, all Albanian, had been arrested, according to The Telegraph. The man's brother received phone calls and videos of his brother from the gang and told Albanian police what had happened. They worked with UK police who organised an operation to free him and he is now safe under police protection. It is claimed the gang backmailed the family, giving him four days to raise a ransom of 400,000. The man was said to have been beaten and tortured during the kidnap in east London after debts hadn't been paid (file image) Gent Mullai, spokesman for the Albanian state police, confirmed the rescue, saying: 'Albanian police successfully finalised an international operation to free a man who was kidnapped. Albanian police, Metropolitan Police and NCA officers managed to free him. 'The investigation directorate of crimes at Albanian police received information about a 30-year-old Albanian who was kidnapped in England and had been asked for 400,000 to free him. Albanian state police exchanged information with the UK who then set up an operation to free him. 'That operation identified and freed the kidnapped man who is now safe under UK police protection. Seven people all Albanian so far have been arrested. The operation continues. We cannot name the kidnapped person or the arrested people until the end of this operation.' A TikToker has vented his frustrations over the design of bus shelters used by an Australian council, labelling them the nation's 'most useless structures'. In a video shared on Sunday, the man was catching a bus to the pub to watch the NRL grand final when he took aim at Brisbane City Council's modern bus stops. 'These are probably the biggest f***ing waste of money I've seen a council embark upon,' the traveller declared. 'It doesn't keep out the sun, it doesn't keep out the rain and it doesn't keep out the wind... all it does is look pretty.' A TIkTok user pointed out the 'useless' design of Brisbane City Council's new modern bus shelters (pictured) Brisbane City Council is one of the largest local government areas in the country, covering the entire city as opposed to suburban councils seen in Sydney and Melbourne. According to the council's transport infrastructure requirements, suburban bus stops with intermediate customer demand qualify for the bus shelters. They should 'allow unobstructed views... define the bus stop and provide protection from environmental conditions' but no specifics are given as to how much sun, wind and rain protection is needed. Commenters on the TikTok clip gave their opinion of the design. 'It's another example of hostile architecture. It's design is to stop people loitering or homeless staying there. Works as a bus shelter but barely,' one person wrote. Some people said the shelters were intentionally design to be open to the elements (pictured) 'They leak water too which pools onto the seats and they don't keep out the sun, people stand behind them in the shade,' another said. 'Probably designed and built by people that don't use public transport,' added a third. Although some commenters said they thought the design was fine. 'It provides a place to sit down while you wait for the bus, that's all you need,' one said. 'At least there's something, Perth is literally a signpost in the ground,' another added. In political circles, it is joked that a government that isn't trailing in the polls halfway through the electoral cycle is not doing its job correctly. One doubts, however, that Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng are laughing. Not even in their worst nightmares could they have imagined capping energy bills for families and businesses one of the biggest government handouts in history and leaving more money in people's pockets through tax cuts, only to see their party's popularity plunge vertiginously. Their handling of what was a commendable mini-Budget panicked the money markets. That was perceived to have contributed to rising mortgage costs, which left many fearful they wouldn't be able to pay for their homes. The PM and Chancellor have risked imperilling one of the Conservatives' greatest strengths their reputation for economic competence. Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng have risked imperilling one of the Conservatives' greatest strengths their reputation for economic competence So the party conference in Birmingham is critical for this nascent administration. They must convince activists, the wider electorate and global investors that the British economy is in safe hands. Miss Truss was right to admit making mistakes. But she and Mr Kwarteng were equally correct to vow to stay the course. Trussonomics is a breath of fresh air, blowing away the cobwebs of the failed economic orthodoxy. Defibrillating the sluggish economy will turbocharge growth, incentivise hard work, increase wages and bring in more money for public services. After years of politicians who change their minds with the wind, it is refreshing to have leaders who believe being right is more important than being popular. To show that the Tories are competent though, it is imperative MPs get behind Miss Truss and not just to stab her in the back. The disloyalty of Michael Gove, who spent yesterday gleefully denouncing his own Government's policies, is sickening. The former Cabinet minister appears to be orchestrating a plot to undermine or even oust Miss Truss, involving MPs still rankled by Rishi Sunak's leadership defeat. His claim her agenda is 'not Conservative' is hogwash. Tax cuts are Conservative, Mr Gove. What is not, is putting the economy into a coma and making it a crime to visit a dying relative in hospital or at home as he argued for during Covid. Those treacherous Tories are playing with fire. A party at war with itself can never expect to win an election. Don't they realise the days of Labour being the hopeless circus act they were under Jeremy Corbyn are gone? They now resemble a functioning opposition. Yes, Sir Keir Starmer is a Grade-A dud, but the tumult has refashioned him in the eyes of many voters as a feasible PM. Should the Tories implode, we risk a diabolical hard-Left alliance of Labour, the SNP and the Lib Dems seizing power. Do the conspirators really want that? Brexit would wither, and the economy, the Union, and all we cherish would be ruined. The tomfoolery must stop. The Conservative Party needs to show unity: Of purpose, of message and of approach. Time to act on borders Were there prizes for stating the obvious, the Home Secretary would have yesterday put herself in line for the gold medal. The Channel migrants crisis, said Suella Braverman, was 'out of control'. Truly, did anyone not realise? Already this year, 33,000 have reached our shores illegally in smugglers' dinghies. So we hope Mrs Braverman's plan to reform the disastrous Modern Slavery Act, making it harder for illegal immigrants and foreign criminals (helped by activist lawyers) to thwart deportation, gets results. The Left will inevitably howl with outrage. But voters want the Government to enforce strict border controls not oversee an immigration free-for-all. Huerta was earlier described in a report as speaking both Spanish and English, wearing cowboy boots and having highlights in her hair Officials in Texas have said that the migrants were made false promises that included jobs, shelter and legal representation if they boarded the flights A former spy with the US Armys counterintelligence unit has been revealed as the person behind the plot to fly migrants from Texas to Marthas Vineyard. Perla Huerta served as a medic in Iraq and Afghanistan and has been identified as the woman who executed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' plan. Multiple migrants told the New York Times that it was Huerta, 43, who approached them in San Antonio and sold them on the idea of boarding a plane bound for the affluent surroundings of Martha's Vineyard. The state of Florida, under DeSantis' direction, paid for two flights of migrants from Texas to Martha's Vineyard in September. DeSantis is the latest GOP governor, frustrated over the federal government's response to policing the southern border, to transport migrants to Democratic cities. He defended the move as a way to make immigration a 'front-burner issue' ahead of the midterm elections in November. Critics questioned the legality, and his Democratic opponent for governor said it represented a new low level of shrewdness. Lawyers for migrants have called for a criminal probe into DeSantis, accusing him of falsely promising them jobs and immigration help. He is accused of preying on the migrants, with DeSantis saying the migrants knew where they were going having signed waivers. Online records show that Huerta is based in Tampa, Florida. According to the Times, she was sent to Texas in order to convince the migrants to head north. The state of Florida, under Governor Ron DeSantis' direction, paid for two flights of migrants from Texas to Martha's Vineyard in September Multiple migrants told the New York Times that it was former spy Perla Huerta, 43, who approached them in San Antonio and convinced them to board planes for Martha's Vineyard Texas Sheriff Javier Salazar (pictured) of Bexar County, which includes San Antonio, is leading the investigation into how the migrants were rounded up and sent to Martha's Vineyard Those records show that Huerta has relatives who live in San Antonio. She is a divorced mother, and lived for a time in Niceville, Florida. A previous report from New York Magazine described Perla as wearing 'cowboy boots' and having 'highlights in her hair.' She is also described as speaking both Spanish and English. The plane that flew the Venezuelan asylum seekers to Massachusetts was provided by charter company Vertol Systems that has ties to DeSantis, the Tampa Bay Times reports. The state paid the company more than $1.56 million for the flights. Vertol typically trains pilots for the military, but is well known to Larry Keefe, the DeSantis' public safety czar responsible for the governors anti-immigration programs, as he represented them in a dozen lawsuits prior to working for the state. Vertol was also once represented by another DeSantis ally - Congressman Matt Gaetz, according to court records reviewed by the Times. DeSantis previously flew 50 migrants to Martha's Vineyard on the exact same plane last week, sparking an escalation in the immigration war When speaking to Migrants, the former spy referred to herself only as 'Perla.' Huerta's activities, as well as the operation as a whole, is under investigation by the Bexar County Sheriff's office in Texas. In September, the Sheriff Javier Salazar told the media: 'Our understanding is that a Venezuelan migrant was paid what we call a 'birddog fee' to recruit approximately 50 migrants from the area around a migrants resource center on San Pedro here in San Antonio.' That Venezuelan migrant confirmed that they had been working with Huerta, the Times reports. Multiple migrants reportedly took pictures of Huerta while she was recruiting them in Texas. That's according to Rachel Self, an attorney representing the migrants. Self said that those photos helped to identify Huerta, using them to match with other online pictures of the veteran. At the time of writing, Huerta's social media pages have been deactivated. The sheriff went on to say that the migrants were promised work and the 'solution to several of their problems.' Back in September, the Washington Post reported that a 'smiling blond-haired woman in a cowboy hat' named Perla approached migrants in San Antonio and promised that she could help them. At that time, the Post said that Huerta was driving a rented SUV and was able to promise migrants, many of whom were sleeping on the streets, food, jobs and transportation. The article says that multiple migrants took pictures of Huerta while she was recruiting them in Texas. That's according to Rachel Self, an attorney representing the migrants While in San Antonio, Perla Huerta was driving a rented SUV and was able to promise migrants, many of whom were sleeping on the streets, food, jobs and transportation The San Antonio Report said in September that the League of United Latin Americans Citizens was offering $5,000 for information on Huerta. According to the outlet, a 34-year-old Venezuelan migrant said that Huerta promised him help to get to a 'sanctuary state.' In addition to jobs, migrants said that a 7-year-old girl was promised a place in school, while others were promised English classes and legal counsel. After a migrant who arrived on Martha's Vineyard texted Huerta to ask why they had been sent there, when the help they were promised was not available, she responded: 'Im sorry for the confusion. I saw they sent yall doctors and attorneys.' He also told the Report that Huerta was regularly accompanied by a male Venezuelan migrant whom he did not know. The Report later named that man as Emmanuel. He told the website: 'Perla informed me that in those sanctuary states, the state has the benefits to help migrants. Ive just been the mediator because I like to help people.' Emmanuel said that Perla had no part in organizing the flights and was merely charged with filling the planes. A woman named 'Perla' was also named in a lawsuit that was filed in Massachusetts on September 20. At the time the lawsuit was filed, Huerta was known only by her first name. 11230851 Special delivery for Joe? DeSantis' plane he used to send 50 migrants to Martha's Vineyard is currently headed to Biden's Rehoboth beach home - as Democratic sheriff threatens Florida gov. with criminal kidnapping charges The September plot was undertaken by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis without the knowledge of his counterpart in the Lone Star State, the Times said in their report. Abbott, a fellow republican, has not publicly criticized DeSantis' actions - which usurped his own efforts to move migrants to northern states - but his office was reportedly given no warning of what the Florida governor was up to. Texas, for its own part, has bussed thousands of migrants who crossed over from Mexico to New York, Washington DC and Chicago in the past few months. Florida has allocated $12 million to transport unauthorized migrants out of its own state. DeSantis' decision to cross state lines to retrieve migrants calls into question the legality of his use of state funds to do so. Jason Pizzo, a Florida Democratic senator representing Miami, has filed a lawsuit against the governor alleging that he violated state law because the budget that the funds were drawn from stipulates that they be used for 'the transport of unauthorized aliens from this state consistent with federal law.' Vice President Kamala Harris dodged a question about a statement she made saying that relief for communities affected by the devastating Hurricane Ian should be based on 'equity.' Harris was asked by a reporter at the 51st annual Phoenix Awards, a dinner hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Saturday evening in Washington, 'Vice President, can you clarify what you meant about equity for hurricane relief?' The vice president, despite looking straight at the reporter, did not respond to the question and walked away with a security detail, according to Fox News. This comes after the Vice President, a Democrat, was heavily criticized for saying that it was people of color and lower-income communities who are 'most impacted by these extreme [weather] conditions.' Christina Pushaw, leader of rapid response for Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, called Vice President Harris' statements false and added, 'Her rhetoric is causing undue panic and must be clarified. FEMA Individual Assistance is already available to all Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian, regardless of race or background.' Vice President Kamala Harris dodged a question about a statement she made saying that relief for communities affected by the devastating Hurricane Ian should be based on 'equity.' The vice president, despite looking directly at the reporter, did not respond to the question and walked away with security detail Watch the latest video at foxnews.com Fox News Privacy Policy Pushaw went on to encourage her followers who need assistance in the wake of the hurricane to call 1-800-621-3362 or log on to Disasterassistance.gov. She followed up her original message by saying: 'The @VP needs to correct what she said as well. A real journalist would simply ask her to clarify what she meant by those comments and why she misrepresented the relief effort.' Speaking at the Democratic National Committee's Women's Leadership Forum on Friday, Harris said that it was people of color and lower-income communities who are 'most impacted by these extreme [weather] conditions.' The devastation inflicted on Florida came into focus a day after Ian struck as a monstrous Category 4 hurricane, one of the strongest storms ever to hit the U.S. It flooded homes on both the states coasts, cut off the only road access to a barrier island, destroyed a historic waterfront pier, and knocked out electricity to 2.67 million Florida homes and businesses nearly a quarter of utility customers. Harris, 57, was discussing climate change with actress Priyanka Chopra in Washington, DC when she made her comments. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during the Democratic National Committee's Women's Leadership Forum in Washington, DC Harris, 57, was discussing climate change with actress Priyanka Chopra when she made her controversial comments Harris said of the relief: 'We have to address this in a way that is about giving resources based on equity, understanding that we fight for equality, but we also need to fight for equity' The Vice President continued: 'I know we are all thinking about the families in Florida and Puerto Rico with [Hurricane] Fiona and what we need to do to help them in terms of an immediate response and aid.' She went on: 'We have to address this in a way that is about giving resources based on equity, understanding that we fight for equality, but we also need to fight for equity.' Harris added: 'Understanding not everyone starts out at the same place, and if we want people to be in an equal place, sometimes we have to take into account those disparities.' The world's wealthiest man, Elon Musk, joined in on calling out Harris. The world's wealthiest man, Elon Musk weighed in on Harris' comments He commented on Ryan Fournier, the founder of Students for Trump's, tweet about Harris. Musk said that relief should be dispensed 'according to greatest need, not race or anything else.' Fournier had tweeted: 'You can't make this up. Kamala Harris said the administration will be giving hurricane resources 'based on equity' by directing funds to 'communities of color.' I guess everyone else is just screwed.' Later on her Twitter feed, Pushaw announced that Florida's First Lady, Casey DeSantis, had awarded $1 million from Florida's Disaster Fund to qualifying organizations, who are helping victims. You can donate to the fund here. Earlier this week, Harris was in South Korea visiting the DMZ border that separates the south from the north on the peninsula Vice President Harris met South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol - the pair issued a joint statement condemning the missile launches from North Korea that took place during the visit Already this week Harris made headlines while on a visit to South Korea for the wrong reasons when she mistakenly touted the 'strong alliance' that the US has with the 'Republic of North Korea.' North Korea fired missiles before and after Harris' visit to the peninsula, extending a record pace in weapons testing this year as it increases the threat of a credible nuclear power that can strike the United States and its allies. Pyongyang also conducted the first intercontinental ballistic missile test for the first time since 2017. Nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches by North Korea have long been banned by the United Nations Security Council. Despite these gaffes, President Joe Biden said at an event in the White House on Friday that: 'Kamala won't be the last woman to be vice president - or president.' US health officials have given a hugely controversial research organization another $650,000 (580k) grant to experiment on Covid-like viruses despite fears similar risky work may have actually sparked the pandemic. EcoHealth Alliance, run by British zoologist Peter Daszak, funded studies in Wuhan the Chinese city where the pandemic began on manipulated coronaviruses. Such research, known as 'gain of function', can see viruses deliberately engineered to become more dangerous to humans. EcoHealth Alliance's five-year experiment will investigate 'the potential for future bat coronavirus emergence' in Asia, with scientists set to trawl caves in Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam in the hunt to prevent another viral crisis. The grant was awarded last month by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), which is still ran by Dr Anthony Fauci. Dr Fauci is known to be close to Dr Daszak, who thanked the American Government's departing chief medical adviser for downplaying theories that Covid may have been created in a lab. EcoHealth Alliance is said to have received $60million (53.5m) in federal cash over the past decade. Some of this money was funneled straight to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. EcoHealth Alliance, run by British zoologist Peter Daszak, funded studies in Wuhan the Chinese city where the pandemic began on manipulated coronaviruses. The boss of EcoHealth Alliance, Peter Daszak, shown left, is known to be close to Dr Anthony Fauci (right) Previously, Daszak's EcoHealth Alliance has used the Wuhan Institute of Virology in research, particularly in gain-of-function research in which organisms are genetically altered In a leaked email from 2020, Daszak appeared to express gratitude to Fauci for downplaying the theory that the Covid-19 was created in a lab in Wuhan, China The justification for the grant says that previous research in this field 'identifies the border region of Southern China, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam as a high risk for future emergence of novel coronaviruses and the potential site where SARS-CoV-2 first 'spilled over' from bats to people'. The research will also include testing communities that live in close proximity to wildlife in south east Asia for coronaviruses. According to the NIH's website, the research will include supplying 'viral sequences and isolates for use in vaccine development'. The main aim of the research is described as conducting 'community-based surveys and biological sampling of people frequently exposed to wildlife in Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, to find serological evidence of spillover'. The other primary aim will include 'sampling and PCR screening of bats and other wildlife at community surveillance sites'. The new research may 'also provide data on wildlife reservoirs and community spillover events of relevance to the origin of COVID-19,' according to a section of the NIH report. Another section reads: 'Finally, we will rapidly supply viral sequences and isolates for use in vaccine and therapeutic development.' The long-term goal of projects such as this one is to help aid global preparedness in case of another global pandemic, the NIH said. The new study will see Daszak's outfit investigating bats and other coronaviruses in the wild. It will run until August 2027 Daszak leaves his hotel after the World Health Organization (WHO) team wrapped up its investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Wuhan in China's central Hubei province on February 10, 2021 Further details of British researcher Daszak's role in facilitating risky coronavirus research in China were revealed in a report back in April. They outlined how his EcoHealth Alliance raked in millions in federal grants. Daszak's group, which bizarrely evolved from a save-the-manatees non-profit to a top champion of viral gain-of-function research as it chased federal funding, has long been at the center of questions about the origins of Covid. The lengthy report that was published in Vanity Fair, based on dozens of interviews and more than 100,000 leaked internal documents, detailed how EcoHealth operated in a world of 'murky grant agreements, flimsy oversight, and the pursuit of government funds for scientific advancement, in part by pitching research of steeply escalating risk'. The report did not offer conclusive evidence as to whether Covid leaked from the Wuhan lab that worked closely with EcoHealth, or was transmitted to humans by an animal in a 'natural spillover' event, as Daszak has long insisted. But it does outline the lengths to which Daszak - and Dr Fauci, whose agency helped fund his research - went to try to cast doubt on the lab-origin theory and downplay the potential role of risky research that EcoHealth supported in Wuhan. A researcher swabs a bat's mouth to take samples at Sai Yok National Park in Kanchanaburi province, west of Bangkok, Thailand The Wuhan Institute of Virology kept live bats in cages, footage from inside the facility has revealed In 2014, the National Institute of Health approved a $3.7million grant to EcoHealth titled Understanding the Risk of Bat Coronavirus Emergence, the purpose of which was to create a sort of pandemic early-warning system. The research involved gathering bat coronaviruses in China and studying them at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), as well as mixing components of SARS-like viruses from different species to create a novel chimera that was able to directly infect human cells. Allowing such risky research to go forward at the Wuhan lab was 'simply crazy, in my opinion,' Jack Nunberg, director of the Montana Biotechnology Center, told Vanity Fair. 'Reasons are lack of oversight, lack of regulation, the environment in China,' he said. 'So that is what really elevates it to the realm of, 'No, this shouldn't happen.' Facing a funding shortfall when certain grants expired, EcoHealth in 2018 submitted an even more ambitious research proposal to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA. The plan titled Project DEFUSE involved partnering with WIV to engineer bat coronaviruses to be more deadly, by inserting genetic features that are similar to those found in SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid. Daszak has also been accused of being relentless in his pursuit of obtaining NIH grant money from Fauci for EcoHealth's research Pictured: Shi Zhengli works with other researchers in a lab at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan in central China's Hubei province In their response, DARPA officials slammed the plan as risky for failing to address significant ethical legal and social concerns, refusing to issue the $14.2million grant. Daszak has also been accused of being relentless in his pursuit of obtaining NIH grant money from Fauci for EcoHealth's research. He would invite Fauci to EcoHealth events that were described on invitations as 'educational' despite the fact that nonprofit officials referred to them as 'cultivation events' in which they should network with 'prospective federal funders'. The group would spend approximately $8,000 on each 'cultivation' event. 'These kinds of events are common among many nongovernmental organizations and nonprofits, which depend upon both public and private donors for support,' Daszak told the magazine, defending the parties. Daszak also repeatedly lauded Fauci, requesting he serve as a 'panel speaker' at select EcoHealth events. In April 2020, Daszak came under scrutiny in April 2020 when theories about the origin of COVID surfaced. A reporter asked then-President Donald Trump during a Covid press briefing why the U.S. government would support a $3.7million grant to a Chinese lab. 'We will end that grant very quickly,' Trump replied, prompting a follow-up question, from another reporter, directed at Fauci about whether a lab could be responsibly for Covid. Dr Fauci, answered, alleging a 'group of highly qualified evolutionary virologists' determined the virus was 'totally consistent with a jump of a species from an animal to a human.' The next day, Daszak reportedly emailed Dr Fauci to thank him for 'publicly standing up and stating that the scientific evidence supports a natural origin for Covid from a bat-to-human spillover, not a lab release from the Wuhan Institute of Virology'. Dr Fauci reportedly thanked the scientist back. A manhunt for an alleged bikie associate has come to an end just hours after police appealed for the public's help but urged them to 'stay away'. Joshua Colin Duperouzel, 25, was wanted by police to help them in their inquiries over the death of Joseph Versace at Gnangara, Perth, on Thursday. Versace, 34, was allegedly shot in the stomach and the chest in a brazen daylight execution with paramedics unable to save his life. Police released a photo of Duperouzel four days later and urged anyone with information to come forward before revealing he had been arrested on Monday. 'Mr Duperouzel may have access to a firearm and should not be approached by members of the public,' WA Police said in a statement. Duperouzel was arrested less than half an hour away from Gnangara, in the Perth suburb of Belmont. Joshua Colin Duperouzel, 25, was wanted by police to help them in their inquiries over the death of Joseph Versace at Gnangara, Perth , on Thursday Versace, 34, was allegedly shot in the stomach and the chest in a brazen daylight execution with paramedics unable to save his life Duperouzel is 186cm tall and has fair skin, a medium build, shaved head and green eyes. Major Crime Division Detective Inspector Quentin Flatman earlier urged Duperouzel to hand himself in. 'Anyone who sees Mr Duperouzel, we ask that you contact Crime Stoppers and let us know,' Det-Insp. Flatman said. 'We also say a personal appeal to Mr Duperouzel, that if you are watching this, please make yourself known to police, you can hand yourself into a police station or let us know where you are so that we can have a conversation with you.' Police are still searching for a black BMW X5 that was seen driving away from the scene before it was abandoned at Glen Forest. Police Commissioner Col Blanch on Friday said detectives were speaking to multiple witnesses but were yet to place a suspect in custody. A series of raids were carried out over the weekend, with senior Rebels bikie Karl Labrook seen being escorted by police out of a Ridgewood home. Mr Blanch said the victim was known to police and was believed to have been associated with bikie gangs. Any retaliatory attacks would be met with a strong police response, he warned. 'This is something that I will not tolerate as commissioner in Western Australia - cold-blooded killings, public acts of violence,' he told reporters on Friday. 'If you get out of line, if you start doing things like this, the gang crime squad will come for you.' Police are still searching for a black BMW X5 that was seen driving away from the scene before it was abandoned at Glen Forest Mr Versace's sister Connie has rubbished claims her brother was linked to any bikie clubs Mr Versace's sister Connie rubbished claims her brother was linked to any bikie clubs. 'He was definitely not a bikie or what's been said,' she said. 'It's not all the truth and that's why I'm doing this because I want people to know he was an amazing person.' Ms Versace admitted her brother may have been friends with bikies as 'a lot of people do now'. 'He's not a gangster, he wasn't an angel but who is, he's done some silly things,' she said. Ms Versace said it made her angry that her brother was being linked to an outlaw motorcycle gang and portrayed as a 'horrible person'. There also appeared to be no love lost between Versace and the police with his Facebook profile picture from July 2021 showing him urinating on a police car She described her brother as the 'rock' that kept the family together when their father passed away in October 2020. Versace's links to outlaw motorcycle gangs in Western Australia trace back years with the slain 34-year-old previously being involved with the Rebels and the Comancheros. According to The West, Versace spent the past 16 years in and out of jail, serving his first sentence when he was just 18. Versace was charged with being a part of a joint criminal enterprise in 2015 to sell illicit drugs however the charges were dropped later that year. There also appeared to be no love lost between Versace and the police with his Facebook profile picture from July 2021 showing him urinating on a police car. The new crash detection feature on the iPhone 14 alerted police to a tragic wreck on Sunday that left all six young passengers in the vehicle dead. Officers say the the black Honda Accord slammed into a tree in Lincoln, Nebraska, in the early hours of the morning. Five men died at the scene at around 2.15am, while a 24-year-old woman was left in critical condition and died later at a nearby hospital. In the immediate aftermath of the crash, an iPhone 14 belonging to one of the passengers alerted emergency services to the scene. The iPhone feature meant first responders were made aware of the incident, despite there being no other witnesses to what police have described as 'the worst crash in Lincoln in recent memory.' The 22-year-old driver has not been named. The other victims were one 21-year-old, one 23-year-old and two 22-year-olds - including a man by the name of Jonathan Koch. It's unclear what caused the crash, but police say the group of friends were driving home at the time. This was what remained of the five-seater Honda Accord after the crash in Nebraska on Sunday morning. Six youths were traveling in the car at 2.15am when the driver crashed into a tree. An iPhone 14 belonging to one of the victims alerted the authorities Jonathan Koch, 22, was among the victims. All six were in their early twenties but police have not yet shared the names of the others who died Brad Bartak told WOWT that the crash happened on his front lawn. The iPhone 14 features a new sensor with a high-G-force accelerometer that detects when the user has been in a car crash, such as 'side impact, rear end collision and rollovers' His son and daughter ran into his room saying that someone had 'hit out tree'. He and his other neighbors jumped into action, and tried to help before the first responders arrived. 'I noticed that there was actually a fire coming from the engine... I basically grabbed the garden hose and ran it up to the car and we were dousing it,' he said. Emergency responders were working at the scene for at least five hours after they arrived, onlookers said. Upon hearing the news of the tragic crash, families and friends gathered at the scene on Bartak's lawn. KETV reported the scene was littered with shredded tree bark. The local news outlet said skid marks could be seen along the road leading up to the tree where the car crashed. Officers say the car slammed into the tree, but further details have not yet been revealed. Tributes poured in for Koch from those who gathered there. Jonathan's sister, Kayla Kelley, said: 'Life is so short. In the blink of an eye, the world is just shattering around you.' She added: 'He was the most amazing person you'd ever meet.' Six people in their 20s were killed in a car crash in Lincoln, Nebraska on Sunday Police have described as 'the worst crash in Lincoln in recent memory' She described her brother as a man who loved his family, drawing, and to go out and spend time with his friends. He was charismatic and knew no strangers, she said. Kelley later posted a tribute to her brother on Facebook: 'As Im sitting in your bedroom mustering enough strength to write something so beautiful for you nothing I say will bring you back or show the entire universe just how amazing you are! HOW DOES IPHONE 14 CRASH DETECTION WORK? The iPhone 14 introduced a new 'crash detection' feature that automatically detects when the user has been in a severe car accident and calls for emergency assistance if they are unconscious or unable to reach their phone. Apple's latest iPhone models feature a dual-core accelerometer - capable of detecting G-force measurements of up to 256Gs - and a new high dynamic range gyroscope. These are used in combination with components in previous iPhone models, like the barometer, which can detect cabin pressure changes, the GPS for additional input for speed changes, and the microphone, which can recognize loud noises typified by severe car crashes. Apple has trained its algorithms on over a million hours of real-world driving and crash record data, to be able to accurately detect when an accident has taken place. If the user is wearing an Apple Watch, this further improves accuracy. When a severe crash is detected, the emergency services call interface will appear on Apple Watch, as it is most likely to be in closer proximity to the user, while the call is placed through iPhone if it is in range for the best possible connection. Advertisement 'My heart and my families is shattered into a million pieces! We are all beyond devastated, our entire world blew up like a bomb in a blink of an eye,' she wrote. Kaleigh Keown, another of Koch's sisters, changed her Facebook profile picture to a photograph of her and her brother wearing Nebraska Cornhuskers football jerseys. Although the cause of the crash remains under investigation, police explained how they were called after the iPhone detected it had been in a crash and called first responders automatically when the user didn't react. The iPhone 14 features a new sensor with a high-G-force accelerometer that detects when the user has been in a car crash, such as 'side-impact, rear-end collision, and rollovers.' The feature, dubbed 'crash detection,' only activates when traveling in a vehicle. 'This is the worst crash in Lincoln in recent memory,' Lincoln Police Assistant Chief Michon Morrow said. 'We've been trying to think of another accident this bad and we haven't come up with anything.' 'I've been with this department for 25 years and can't remember anything as horrible. 'The cause of this accident is going to take us some time to pin down,' Morrow added. 'We are looking at all possibilities, including alcohol, speed or distracted driving.' So far, investigators have not been able to find witnesses to the crash, which happened near 5600 Block of Randolph Street in Lincoln. The vehicle is believed to have been travelling eastbound when it struck the tree. The Lincoln Police Department has asked for anyone with additional information or video of the incident to contact the LPD non-emergency number at 402-441-6000 or Crime Stoppers at 402 475-3600. The crash occurred early on Sunday morning in Lincoln Nebraska Police are still looking for witnesses in the crash but and far say they have no idea as to the cause Writing on Twitter after the crash, Lincoln Police wrote: 'Lincoln Police fatality investigators are still working to notify family members and collect evidence in a tragic overnight collision at 56th and Randolph Street. 'Five men were pronounced deceased. A woman was taken to the hospital in life-threatening condition.' In a later update, the force added: 'Sadly, the woman who was transported to the hospital has succumbed to the injuries she sustained in the crash. 'This is the worst crash in Lincoln in recent memory. Our hearts are heavy for the victim's families.' The iPhone 14 was released to the US market on September 16, with technology that can detect when users are in a car crash and automatically call emergency services. This is thanks to a dual-core accelerometer that can detect G-force measurements when vehicles are hit. However, accelerometers are in most smartphones to detect screen orientation, and the car crash detection capability has been available on Google Pixel phones since 2019. President Yoon Suk-yeol's approval rating fell for the first time in four weeks after his remarks caught on a hot mic in New York caused an uproar here, a survey showed Monday. In the poll of 2,522 voters conducted by Realmeter from Monday to Friday last week, 31.2 percent positively assessed Yoon's job performance, down 3.4 percentage points from the previous week. Yoon's disapproval rating was 66 percent, up 3.8 percentage points. The drop could be attributable to the hot mic controversy and Yoon's accusation of media manipulation after he came under fire for using vulgar words in private remarks to aides caught on a hot mic during his trip to New York last month, according to Bae Cheol-ho, a senior analyst at Realmeter. Though the recording of Yoon's remarks was not clear due to noise, many thought that he used foul language while talking about U.S. Congress and U.S. President Joe Biden. Yoon's office rejected the claim, saying he was referring to Korea's opposition-controlled National Assembly and did not mention U.S. Congress or Biden. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level. (Yonhap) A shocking video has been released of a 2019 brawl at an Indiana White Castle restaurant that ended with two circuit court judges shot and wounded. The video of the May 1, 2019, shooting at the downtown Indianapolis location was finally unsealed after the gunman was found guilty last week. In the video, Clark County Circuit Court Judges Brad Jacobs and Andrew Adams are at the fast food place's parking lot at around 3:30 in the morning on the day in question. The two judges were attending a judicial conference. Adams and Jacobs - according to testimony in the trial of the gunman - had been 'drinking heavily' at various bars throughout the evening and were having a nightcap at White Castle. The two judges, along with Crawford County Judge Sabrina Bell, who was attending the same judicial conference, saw two men drive through in an SUV. In the video, Clark County Circuit Court Judges Brad Jacobs (pictured right) and Andrew Adams (pictured left) are at the fast food place's parking lot at around 3:30 in the morning on the day in question The two judges were at a White Castle in downtown Indianapolis after a day at a conference with Judge Sabrina Bell The two judges, along with Crawford County Judge Sabrina Bell, saw two men drive through in an SUV (pictured right) The video shows the four men scuffling, which punches thrown. At one point, Bell appears to try and get the attention of the White Castle employees inside Later in the video as the fight rolls on, someone pulls up in a silver truck before quickly assessing the situation and speeding away Kaiser and Vazquez drove away before police could arrive as employees from the restaurant came out and surrounded them One of the men yelled something that caused Bell to 'extend her middle finger' at them, according to WRTV. Bell told investigators she may have said something that 'egged on' the men. Brandon Kaiser, 44, was one of the two men, sitting alongside his nephew Alfredo Vazquez. They parked their SUV and approached the three judges and a verbal altercation began, eventually turning physical. The video shows the four men scuffling, with punches thrown. At one point, Bell appears to try and get the attention of the White Castle employees inside. Later in the video as the fight rolls on, someone pulls up in a silver truck before quickly assessing the situation and speeding away. A man appears to walk out of the store with his White Castle order and try to stop the fight. Eventually, Kaiser pulls out a handgun and shoots Adams and Jacobs. The two judges were hospitalized for treatment but ultimately survived the shooting. Kaiser and Vazquez drove away before police could arrive as employees from the restaurant came out and surrounded the victims. Kaiser was found guilty of aggravated battery and other crimes for his role in the shooting. Brandon Kaiser, 44, pulled out a handgun and shot Adams and Jacobs before leaving Kaiser was one of the two men, sitting alongside his nephew Alfredo Vazquez (pictured) Police investigate the scene of the 2019 shooting that followed up a physical altercation Kaiser and Vazquez drove away before police could arrive as employees from the restaurant came out and surrounded them The most serious charges, two counts of aggravated battery, could see him spend up to 32 years in prison. Kaiser's defense was that he shot Adams and Jacobs in self-defense. He will be sentenced on October 21. Vazquez, Kaiser's nephew, pled guilty to battery back in November 2019. He was sentenced to six months home detention and a year's probation, which he completed by December 2020. The men in the SUV, Kaiser and his nephew Alfredo Vazquez, parked and approached the judges, the video shows. The four can be seen grappling and throwing punches. The fight ended when Kaiser pulled a handgun and shot Adams and Jacobs. Both survived their wounds. In September 2019, Adams pled guilty to misdemeanor battery and served a suspended sentence of a year in jail. Jacobs and Bell were not charged. The shooting took place at an Indianapolis location of White Castle near Lucas Oil Stadium, home to the NFL's Colts In September 2019, Adams pled guilty to misdemeanor battery and served a suspended sentence of a year in jail Bell was not charged in the shooting, but has since resigned due to an unrelated domestic battery case Jacobs is the only one of the three judges to still be on the bench since the incident The three judgers were, however, sanctioned by Indiana's Supreme Court, which handed Jacobs and Bell 30-day suspensions and Adams a 60-day suspension. Jacobs has returned to the bench but Adams and Bell are no longer judges, with Bell having resigned due to an unrelated domestic battery case in 2022, according to Fox59. A top airline will not honour AUD$300 return airfares to Europe after a glitch saw dozens of Aussies rush to take advantage of the massive saving. Third-party airline search engine Skyscanner stripped its Etihad flights from Sydney to Berlin, Germany, off its website on Thursday night after savvy Australians noticed return airfares for a tenth of their usual price. Bargain hunters could book cheap tickets for the long-haul flight between May and August next year, coinciding with Europe's summer. Tickets for the return trip, booked in advance, during the peak season usually cost about AUD$3,000. However, excited jetsetters who booked bargain flight had their hopes dashed on Monday when Etihad announced it would not honour the bargain fares as it would be 'unsustaimable'. A spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia the tickets had been sold incorrectly due to a glitch in a third-party data supplier system. The airline is in the process of contacting customers who bought mispriced flights. Luxury airline Etihad has cancelled AUD$300 return tickets from Sydney to Berlin after a 'glitch' saw tickets go on sale for a tenth of their intended price (pictured, a flight attendant onboard an Etihad flight) 'Etihad filed the original fares correctly, and they were displayed properly in the search on Skyscanner,' the spokesperson said. 'However, because of the glitch, consumers were only asked to pay the taxes for the fares when they clicked through to buy them. 'Unfortunately, it is not sustainable for Etihad to operate those flights on that basis. 'The airline will cancel the bookings and refund the taxes, with customers invited to re-book at the correct price.' The bargain flights initially appeared on the website at their usual price but would be reduced to AUD$300 while in checkout. Dozens of holiday seekers were thrilled they could afford an overseas trip with the luxurious airline and the deal received plenty of positive media attention. Etihad said a 'glitch' saw customers pay just the tax for return flights for Europe and has invited customers to rebook flights at the normal AUD$3,000 price (pictured, an Etihad plane) The airline blamed a 'glitch' in its system for the heavily discounted tickets. It said customers were only charged for the tax of the flight, rather than the flight itself. Devastated customers received an email telling them about their canned tickets and were encouraged to make another booking at the correct price. 'Good morning everyone except Etihad who I hear cancelled the tickets they sold ridiculously cheap for Europe flights. I didnt have one but feel the loss,' one person wrote online. 'Anyone else got done dirty by Skyscanner? Cmon Etihad havent ya heard of the cost of living crisis? Honour the $300 return flights to Berlin,' another said. The bargain tickets were for sale through third-party website Skyscanner (above) and initially appeared at their full price before being discounted at the Etihad checkout Excited customers told Daily Mail Australia they were thrilled about the cheap flights on Thursday, before they were cancelled. 'You barely get to Melbourne for $300 return these days,' one woman said. 'To fly to Europe with a top airline in the middle of summer is madness. I can't believe it.' 'I couldn't believe it, a mate shared the message with me and a few minutes later I'd booked it,' a man said. 'I had a European summer wedding anyway, so this is a crazy deal for me.' Advertisement Dozens of Florida residents left their flooded and splintered homes by boat and by air this weekend as rescuers continued to search for survivors in the wake of Hurricane Ian, while authorities in South Carolina and North Carolina began taking stock of their losses. The death toll from Hurricane Ian climbed past 80 on Sunday as embattled residents in Florida and the Carolinas faced a recovery expected to cost tens of billions of dollars, and some officials faced criticism over their response to the storm. Now, dozens of people have been left with little recourse other than to plead for help from the public via the crowdfunding platform GoFundMe as they seek to rebuild their lives. The crowdfunding site shared with DailyMail.com the most heart wrenching verified Hurricane Ian crowdfunding efforts. Among those are engaged couple Amanda Trompeta and Dimitrios Frantzis who are due to be married in just two weeks. According to their page, which was set up by Trompeta's sister, the couple lost nearly everything. Trompeta's wedding dress was badly damaged during the storm. Trompeta's sister wrote that the couple's home was submerged in three feet of water, leaving their furniture ruined. Frantzis told the Orlando Sentinel: 'We wanted to leave, but we couldnt even get the garage door open because of all the pressure.' He added: 'The important thing is that were alive and our animals are good. We realize how deep in the hole we are, were basically starting over. But were taking it one day at a time.' At the time of writing, the couple has raised over $14,000. Amanda Trompeta and Dimitrios Frantzis pictured on their GoFundMe page The couple wrote on their page that they have lost nearly everything after three feet of water trapped them inside their Orlando-home on Thursday The flood waters left the couple's floor soaked and muddy, according to their crowdfunding page The death toll was expected to keep rising as floodwaters receded and search teams pushed farther into areas initially cut off from access. Hundreds of people have been rescued as emergency workers sifted through homes and buildings inundated with water or completely washed away. At least 85 storm-related deaths have been confirmed since Ian crashed ashore Florida's Gulf Coast with catastrophic force on Wednesday as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 miles per hour. Heavy winds during Hurricane Ian saw the a wall collapse in the Kuttner family home in Fort Myers The Kuttner family, who left Rhode Island in 2021, to start a new life in paradise in Fort Myers saw their home destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Their GoFundMe page reads: 'The winds were so strong it blew out the outside wall of their apartment, allowing the contents of the master bedroom to be swept outside in the storm.' At the time of writing, their page has raised over $6,000. Florida accounted for all but four of the fatalities, with 42 tallied by the sheriff's office in coastal Lee County, which bore the brunt of the storm when it made landfall, and 39 other deaths reported by officials in four neighboring counties. The storm weakened Saturday as it rolled into the mid-Atlantic, but not before it washed out bridges and piers, hurdled massive boats into buildings onshore and sheared roofs off homes, leaving hundreds of thousands without power. A GoFundMe page for this home in Key West that was struck by fire has raised over $20,000 A GoFundMe page for police dispatch operator Nick Smith in Key West, Florida, raised over $20,000. His home became engulfed in a fire during the hurricane on Thursday. The page says: 'Building has been red tagged, the floor and roof caved in. Everything has been lost and destroyed.' The bulk of the deaths confirmed in Florida were from drowning in storm waters, but others from Ian's tragic aftereffects. An older couple died when they lost power and their oxygen machines shut off, authorities said. As of Saturday, more than 1,000 people had been rescued from flooded areas along Florida's southwestern coast alone, Daniel Hokanson, a four-star general and head of the National Guard, told The Associated Press while airborne to Florida. Later in the evening, the White House announced that President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden would travel to Florida on Wednesday. No other details of Biden's visit were immediately released. Officials in Lee County, which includes Fort Myers and Cape Coral and is on the Gulf Coast, have faced questions over whether they mandated evacuations in time. The Fralich family in Estero Park were among those who lost everything. Their home was demolished in Hurricane Ian. At the time of writing, their GoFundMe page has raised over $3,000. The modest goal of the page, $5,000, will be used to replenish personal items that flood insurance may not cover. The home of the Fralich family, pictured here, was demolished following the hurricane, according to their page This shows the rising floodwaters outside of the home of the Fralich family. Their home was demolished in Hurricane Ian. At the time of writing, their GoFundMe page has raised over $3,000 The page calls the Fralich family, 'one of the most amazing families' The modest goal of the page, $5,000, will be used to replenish personal items that flood insurance may not cover Cecil Pendergrass, chairman of the county's board of commissioners, said on Sunday that once the county was forecast to be in the cone, or the probable track of the hurricane's center, evacuation orders were given. Even then, some people chose to ride the storm out, Pendergrass said. 'I respect their choices,' he said at a press conference. 'But I'm sure a lot of them regret it now.' River flooding posed a major challenge at times to rescue and supply delivery efforts. The Myakka River washed over a stretch of Interstate 75, forcing a traffic-snarling highway closure. Passionate sailor Captain Tyler Martin, who runs charter trips Key West, saw his vessel destroyed, alongside other boats. Martin also lived on his boat. At the time of writing, his GoFundMe page has raised over $20,000. Passionate sailor Captain Tyler Martin, who runs charter trips Key West, saw his vessel destroyed, alongside other boats Martin is described on the page as 'incredibly generous' and 'caring,' the page has raised more than $20,000 The key corridor links Tampa to the north with the hard-hit southwest Florida region that straddles Port Charlotte and Fort Myers. Later Saturday, state officials said water levels had receded enough that I-75 could be fully reopened. While rising waters in Florida's southwest rivers have crested or are near cresting, the levels aren't expected to drop significantly for days, said National Weather Service meteorologist Tyler Fleming in Tampa. Elsewhere, South Carolina's Pawleys Island a beach community roughly 75 miles (115 kilometers) up the coast from Charleston was among the places hardest hit. Power remained knocked out to at least half of the island Saturday. These photos posted by an anonymous family shows the cleanup needed in their backyard The family also posted images showing their street, which became a river following Hurricane Ian Trees were shown having fallen on the family's home causing leaks inside Eddie Wilder, who has been coming to Pawleys Island for more than six decades, said Friday's storm was 'insane.' He said waves as high as 25 feet (7.6 meters) washed away the local pier, an iconic landmark. 'We watched it hit the pier and saw the pier disappear,' said Wilder, whose house 30 feet (9 meters) above the ocean stayed dry inside. 'We watched it crumble and and watched it float by with an American flag.' The Pawleys pier was one of at least four along South Carolina's coast destroyed by battering winds and rain. Meanwhile, the intracoastal waterway was strewn with the remnants of several boat houses knocked off their pilings. In North Carolina, the storm claimed four lives and mostly downed trees and power lines, leaving over 280,000 people statewide without power at one point Saturday morning, officials said. The outages were down sharply hours later, after crews worked to restore power. Two of the North Carolina deaths were from storm-related vehicle crashes, while officials said a man drowned when his truck plunged into a swamp and another was killed by carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator in a garage. I spent Saturday in the land that woke forgot. It was a place where the national anthem was played, stood up for and respectfully sung along with, where climate change was described as a 'cult', 'religion' or a 'scam' and every declaration that there are only two genders was a guaranteed applause line. I was at the Australian CPAC (conservative political action conference) held over the weekend at Sydney's Darling Harbour International Convention Centre. A life-sized cardboard cut-out of Donald Trump was set up for CPAC attendees to take selfies with as they attended the event in Sydney over the weekend A young Greens member called 'Alex' addressed the crowd of protesters outside the CPAC event in Sydney It was what the unkind might describe as a gathering of right-wing nutjobs, conspiracy theory kooks and reactionary throwbacks. That's obviously why I went. It was certainly the right place to be for a selfie with Donald Trump. The former US president wasn't there in person but was represented by a, perhaps suitably shallow, life-sized cardboard cut-out image giving a broad smile and (tiny handed?) thumb's up to attendees as they walked towards the main auditorium. Protesters attempted to storm Sydney's Darling Harbour International Convention Centre, where CPAC was held over the weekend Indigenous Senator Jacinta Price was the opening speaker at the CPAC conference, and following the Welcome to Country she made a point of welcoming everyone in the audience After enjoying such an un-PC Make Australia Great Again smile I was a little disappointed conference proceedings kicked off with a very respectful Welcome to Country, that even drew good applause. That applause was dwarfed, however, by the enthusiasm that greeted the very pointed welcome to both the colonised and colonisers made by Indigenous Senator Jacinta Price, who gave a rousing opening speech. For a bunch of ratbag right-wingers it was a polite crowd, that skewed towards grey haired but not exclusively so. The speakers were a line-up of conservative Aussie politicians, or former ones, along with Sky News commentators and a sprinkling of overseas guests, most from the US and UK, with the best known one being British Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage. Former Liberal prime minister Tony Abbott got a hero's welcome at CPAC and told a story about being kicked out of a classroom for questioning climate change When former prime minister Tony Abbott took the stage a rapturous reception told you he was among friends. Mr Abbott wryly commented he wished more of the audience had lived in Warringah, the northern Sydney seat he lost to Teal independent Zali Steggall in the 2019 federal election. He repaid the audience with a story about a 2006 visit to a school in his electorate. Upon entering a class he heard the topic being discussed was 'would you believe' climate change, which the kids said was caused by 'pollution'. Barclay McGain had to be rescued by police after he ventured into the protest crowd outside the CPAC event Mr Abbott asked the students if they had heard of the Ice Age and whether they knew the climate was different then. 'I tried to explain as briefly as I could that climate has changed throughout the millennia and it hasn't anything necessarily to do with human beings but by that stage the teacher rushed me out of the class,' Mr Abbott said to much laughter. Mr Abbott certainly had a kinder crowd than fellow Liberal Dominic Perrottet did, although the NSW Premier wasn't there in person to hear the low-level jeers directed at his pre-recorded video message. The discord inside the venue, however, could not compare to what happened outside it, when about 40-50 people gathered around mid-morning to protest the event with chants of 'f*ck off fascists'. There was plenty of scepticism about climate change on display at the CPAC event in Sydney I listened to what appeared to be a 15-year-old decrying the 'far right' to other mostly 15-year-olds, or so it seemed. The speaker, 'Alex', was a member of the young Greens, which he confirmed to me before falling silent at the demand of another protester who didn't trust the capitalist press. The next person to grab the megaphone was much angrier. He at gestured towards quietly watching CPAC attendees and called them 'far-right filth'. I asked a protester if this was a nice thing to do and was told to 'f*ck off'. Things grew more heated shortly after when 22-year-old self-described 'conservative' Queensland University student Barclay McGain ventured, provocatively you'd have to say, into the protest. He had to be rescued by police, who pulled him hurriedly out like life-savers would a swimmer in a pool of piranha. Gaining some confidence the protesters bolted to try getting into the convention centre through a back entrance but were blocked by police. I spotted a stout gentleman clad entirely in black, with a ninja style mask covering his face and wondered if he was a member of Antifa, the left-wing 'anti-fascist' group often accused of protest violence. Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage was one of the better known speakers at the CPAC event in Sydney Sticking to his ninja code of silence, he would not confirm this. With police blocking protesters whenever they tried marching on the building they eventually retreated and I returned to the conference. Australia's CPAC is a copy, or you might call it a franchise, of the much bigger and no doubt crazier event in America. What happens there, happens here but that also goes for the left, including wokeness and movements such as Black Lives Matter. Considering the violence, even death, that has accompanied Trump supporters storming Washington and BLM protesters burning US cities it might be better to find inspirations of our own. Advertisement Little Olivia Pratt-Korbel's parents came face to face with the man accused of killing her as he appeared in court for the first time. Thomas Cashman, 34, was in Liverpool Magistrates' Court this morning alongside a second defendant, Paul Russell, 40, who is accused of assisting an offender by helping him dump his clothes and drive him to an address. Handcuffed Cashman is alleged to have killed the nine-year-old, who was shot dead after convicted burglar Joseph Nee was chased by a gunman into her home in Dovecot, Liverpool, on August 22. He is also charged with the attempted murder of Olivia's mother, 46-year-old Cheryl Korbel, who was injured during the incident, and Nee. In the dock he was surrounded by four police officers during the hearing, which lasted about 10 minutes. Olivia's parents were in court along with police officers and more than 20 members of the media. A handcuffed Cashman later appeared wearing a grey t-shirt at Liverpool Crown Court where he was remanded in custody. He spent most of the 15-minute hearing staring at the floor and was told his provisional trial date had been set for March 6 next year. David McLachlan KC, prosecuting, said the trial is expected to last four weeks. Judge Neil Flewitt KC said Cashman will appear at the next hearing via video-link. He also told him: 'In the meantime you must remain in custody.' Thomas Cashman, 34, was in Liverpool Magistrates' Court today, alleged to have killed the nine-year-old Paul Russell, 40, who is accused of assisting an offender by helping Cashman dump his clothes In a eulogy, Olivia's mother Cheryl Korbel (pictured holding a pink teddy) said: 'Liv touched so many people's hearts and was loved and adored by everyone. She will never be forgotten' Police made their 11th arrest so far as they look to hunt for the person who killed Olivia Pratt-Korbel. The nine-year-old was shot dead in her home in Liverpool in August A court artist sketch of Thomas Cashman appearing in the dock at Liverpool Magistrates' Court this morning Police motorcycles block the road to other traffic as a vehicle carrying Thomas Cashman arrives at Liverpool Magistrates' Court Olivia Pratt-Korbel's coffin arrives at St Margaret Mary's Church in Knotty Ash, Liverpool in a horse-drawn carriage on September 15 Cashman is alleged to have killed the nine-year-old, who was shot dead after convicted burglar Joseph Nee was chased by a gunman into her home in Didcot, Liverpool, on August 22 Cashman is charged with the murder of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, two counts of attempted murder and two counts of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. Russell, of West Derby, charged with assisting an offender, is accused of driving Cashman to an address and disposing of his clothing, according to the wording of the indictment. Cashman, also from the West Derby area, is further charged with two counts of possessing a firearm to endanger life. There have been 11 arrests over Olivia's death so far, with nine men previously detained as part of the wide-scale investigation, all of whom were later bailed. Nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel died in after being shot in her home in Liverpool in August Police and forensic officers at the property in Kingsheath Avenue, Knotty Ash, Liverpool, where nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel was fatally shot Rebecca Wilkinson, headteacher of St Margaret Mary's Catholic Junior School in Huyton, said the nine-year-old 'oozed kindness' and would be remembered for her smile. 'We have had counsellors in every class,' she said. '(The children) are devastated at the loss of their friend, they truly are, but the counselling has definitely helped and we have been so proud of the resilience the children have shown since they've been back.' Olivia's funeral was held at St Margaret Mary's Church in Knotty Ash last month. Merseyside Police have made repeated appeals for information following Olivia's death Olivia Pratt-Korbel's coffin is carried out of St Margaret Mary's Church on September 15, 2022 Classmates of Olivia have been sharing their memories of her and receiving counselling since returning to school after her death, her headteacher said. Pink ties, jackets, scarves and bows were worn by those attending the service after her family asked people to wear a 'splash of pink'. Ms Korbel carried a pink teddy bear into the service, during which she said: 'Liv touched so many people's hearts and was loved and adored by everyone. She will never be forgotten. 'I will never say goodbye but what I will say is goodnight, love you, see you in the morning.' Sarah Everard's killer Wayne Couzens saw his plea hearing at the Old Bailey today delayed because of the barrister's strike. The former Metropolitan Police officer, 49, is accused of two counts of indecent exposure pre-dating Ms Everard's kidnap, rape and murder. In June 2015, he allegedly drove pantless through Dover in Kent. And in November 2020, he is accused of exposing himself to a female cyclist. Appearing at the Old Bailey via video link from HMP Frankland, he spoke only to confirm his name and to say he understood proceedings. Couzens' barrister was not present and the defendant was instead represented by a solicitor. Murderer Wayne Couzens was in court today charged with two further counts of indecent exposure. Pictured issued by the Metropolitan Police He showed little emotion during the hearing which lasted around 15 minutes. Jocelyn Ledward, prosecuting, successfully applied for his time in prison to be extended until November 10. In a separate case, the former armed officer with the Met's Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command has pleaded not guilty to four counts of indecent exposure. Pictured: A court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of Sarah Everard's killer Wayne Couzens appearing via video link on April 13 at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London charged with two further flashing offences Those charges relate to other alleged incidents in Swanley, Kent, last year - on January 30 and February 6, and on February 14 and February 27. The earlier charges state that he allegedly 'intentionally exposed his genitals intending that someone would see them and be caused alarm and distress'. The charges have not yet been formally joined together. Ms Ledward told an earlier hearing: 'A member of the public rang the police providing registration number of a VW Golf, which was registered to the defendant, saying he had just seen someone driving through the centre of Dover with his erect penis exposed. 'He was so shocked he rang the police. 'The defendant was not spoken to and then there were some difficulties in locating the complainant. That may be why it did not progress. 'In November 2020 a lady was cycling along a country road a couple of miles away from the Kent coast. 'Wayne Couzens stepped out of the woodland completely naked and masturbating. 'The suspect could not be traced at the time. It was not until images of Mr Couzens were circulated that she recognised the defendant.' He will next appear at the same court on November 1 for a case management hearing where he could also enter a plea. A trial date has not yet been set. Last March, while a serving Metropolitan Police officer, Couzens snatched 33-year-old marketing executive Ms Everard as she walked home in south London. Sarah Everard, 33, was abducted, raped and murdered by Couzens while he was a serving Metropolitan Police officer Couzens, from Deal in Kent, is currently serving a whole life sentence at HMP Frankland in Durham for her killing and will never be released from prison. He lost an appeal against this sentence earlier this year. Couzens' lawyers had argued he deserved 'decades in jail' but said a whole life term was excessive. However, in a summary read out in court, Lord Burnett said that the sentencing judge was entitled to impose a whole life order due to the facts of Couzens' case. Lord Burnett said that while the sentencing starting point in Couzens' case would be a minimum term of 30 years, he continued: 'Having regard to its aggravating features we are in no doubt that its seriousness is so exceptionally high such that a whole life order rather than a minimum term order should be made.' Ms Everard was killed after being abducted from a street in Clapham, south London, and placed into a hire car by Couzens. He convinced her she was under arrest for breach of lockdown rules, even using his real police handcuffs and warrant card for the fake detention. The killing sparked outrage across the UK and has also sparked a string of revelations about ongoing issues in the Metropolitan Police and other UK forces. Several officers also faced criminal charges after messages emerged from a WhatsApp group that included Couzens. Couzens has since been charged with six flashing offences in total. At the time the CPS charged him with the latest two offences, Rosemary Ainslie, head of the Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime Division, said: 'The CPS has authorised two further charges of exposure against Wayne Couzens, following a referral of evidence by the Metropolitan Police. 'The two alleged offences took place in June 2015 and November 2020. Wayne Couzens will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 2 September 2022. 'The function of the CPS is not to decide whether a person is guilty of a criminal offence, but to make fair, independent and objective assessments about whether it is appropriate to present charges to a court to consider. 'The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Wayne Couzens are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.' For the previous four charges Couzens has elected to face a jury trial after denying the allegations at the Old Bailey in May. Advertisement Vladimir Putin may have deployed a huge nuclear submarine carrying its latest doomsday weapon, NATO has warned its members. The Belgorod has disappeared from its home base in the Arctic Circle and may be on its way to the Kara Sea to test the Poseidon nuke, a NATO warning note leaked to Italian media over the weekend has suggested. Poseidon is a drone that is said to be capable of travelling huge distances underwater before detonating with enough force to trigger a 1,600ft nuclear tsunami designed to drown and irradiate coastal cities. The Belgorod - a 600ft Russian nuclear submarine capable of carrying the Poseidon doomsday weapon - has left its base in the White Sea, a NATO warning note has said Poseidon is an underwater drone that Russia claims is capable of triggering 1,600ft nuclear tsunamis designed to drown and irradiate coastal cities If the test does go ahead, it would be Putin's latest attempt to intimidate the West over his failing war in Ukraine after he was suspected of ordering stealth attacks on the Nord Stream pipes last week. The Belgorod was put forward as a candidate for the sabotage mission because it also carries mini-subs designed to carry out attacks on undersea infrastructure. However, doubt was cast on its involvement because - at 600ft long - the submarine is one of the world's largest and getting into the Baltic undetected would have been extremely difficult. It is also unclear whether the Belgorod would have had time to get from its home base in the White Sea to the Baltic - a distance of just under 3,000 miles - without its absence being noted. NATO has since sent a warning to allies that the sub has gone missing, but said it is still thought to be operating in the Arctic. It is unclear exactly when the warning was sent, but it was first reported by Italian newspaper La Repubblica on Sunday. The Belgorod submarine has been in operation since July. A clip emerged in 2019 showing the Poseidon - seen by military officials as a giant nuclear-capable torpedo - during a launch test Poseidon was one of four next-generation weapons announced by Putin back in 2018, and is thought to be operational. According to Russian media, it is capable of travelling for up to 6,000 miles underwater before exploding a nuclear warhead in its nose with a force of two megatons - more than 130 times times the size of the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. That would create an irradiated tsunami up to 1,600ft high designed to drown coastal cities and leave them a nuclear waste-ground, state media claims. The warhead has never been tested due to international prohibitions on the testing of nuclear weapons. Breaking with those treaties by testing Poseidon - even in the remote waters of the Arctic - would be a hugely provocative move by Russia. News of a potential test comes comes amid Russian sabre-rattling over the use of nuclear weapons linked to the Ukraine war, where Putin has been stymied by Western arms supplies. The Belgorod can go up to 120 days without having to return to the surface. TASS has previously reported that the Poseidon drone has an unlimited range and a maximum speed of more than 125 mph. 'Unique characteristics of the Poseidon system will help the Navy to successfully combat aircraft carriers and strike groups of a potential adversary in any oceanic theatre of war and destroy shore infrastructure facilities,' stated chief analyst of the General Staff, Admiral Igor Katasonov. Vladimir Putin has threatened the West with nuclear weapons over Ukraine, after annexing four partially-occupied regions to Russia last week 'It is a completely new type of weapon that will force Western navies to change their planning and develop new countermeasures,' said expert H I Sutton, as reported by La Reppubblica. A video shows how the state-of-the-art Belgorod submarine carries the lethal Poseidon drone torpedo. Kiselyov - avidly watched by Putin and a top executive in Moscow's powerful state media propaganda machine - said Russia could use its big beast Sarmat hypersonic missile, also known as Satan-2, against Britain. But he told viewers in May: 'Another option to plunge Britain into the depths of the sea is the Russian underwater robotic drone Poseidon. 'It approaches the target at a one kilometre depth with the speed of 200 kilometres per hour [125mph]. 'There is NO way to stop this underwater drone. 'It has a warhead with a capacity of up to 100 megatons. 'The explosion of this thermonuclear torpedo close to Britain's shores will raise a giant wave, a tsunami, up to 500 metres [1,640ft] high. 'This tidal wave is also a carrier of extremely high doses of radiation. 'Surging over Britain, it will turn what is probably left of them into radioactive desert. 'Permanently unusable for anything. 'How do you like this prospect? And Putin warned about this, back on February 24 [if anyone interfered with his special military operation].' Putin accused the West of sabotaging the Russian-made Nord Stream pipelines, but Western sources insist Moscow was behind the stunt which led to huge gas leaks in the Baltic. Advertisement A paparazzo who was left with a broken arm after taking pictures of Hollywood stars Margot Robbie and Cara Delevingne in Argentina has claimed it is a 'miracle' he survived his ordeal. Pedro Alberto Orquera was chased by British film producer Josey McNamara and key grip Jac Hopkins, who are said to have taken umbrage with the paparazzo when they spotted him snapping pics of their starlet friends eating at a celebrity restaurant in Buenos Aires in the early hours of Sunday morning. The pair reportedly chased Orquera down outside the restaurant and the photojournalist, who suffered several cuts and broke his arm after falling over, told Argentine outlet TN he was able to protect his equipment and the prized shots he'd taken, but at a considerable cost. 'I don't know what would have happened if I fell head first to the ground, with the speed that those people chased after me,' the photojournalist said. 'They never took my material from me... when I fell to the ground [the camera] was smashed but I was able to save the material.' McNamara and Hopkins were arrested by police and taken in for questioning following the incident. Orquera meanwhile was placed into a neck brace and stretchered to the nearby Argerich Hospital in the Argentine capital, where he remains following initial treatment and is awaiting surgery for his badly broken arm. He told TN his arm was severely injured and it is unknown whether he will regain full use of the limb. 'I have a cast on my right arm, my arm is very compromised and I don't know if I'm going to lose it,' he claimed. Cara Delevingne (left) and Margot Robbie (right) pictured together at the Samsung Experience at San Diego Comic-Con in 2016 Josey McNamara and Margot Robbie pictured at the Oscars in Los Angeles in April last year Photographer Pedro Alberto Orquera suffered a broken arm during the incident and is now awaiting surgery Margot Robbie is pictured in Argentina on Friday, September 30 - two days prior to the attack on Orquera The A-list actresses had been getting into a car outside the Argentine celebrity chef Francis Mallmann's restaurant at around 3am on Sunday morning when the incident involving Orquera took place. The photojournalist's presence is said to have angered McNamara and Hopkins, who hared after him and ultimately caught up to the fleeing paparazzo who crashed to the ground. The impact of the fall shattered his right arm, and he sustained a series of lacerations. Orquera told The Sun: 'While I was running from them they kicked me hard so my camera went up in the air and I fell on the floor and injured my arm.' Witnesses are understood to have called emergency services after it became clear that Orquera had sustained a nasty injury. Police meanwhile took the British filmmakers in for questioning, after which they appeared in court on the order from the Prosecutor's Office for causing 'serious injuries'. A police report seen by The Sun shows that McNamara and Hopkins told officers that Orquera was 'responsible for his own injuries' because the two actresses had not given consent to be pictured. Robbie and Delevingne meanwhile flying to the south of Argentina just hours after the chase took place. Orquera is planning to file a lawsuit, alleging that the injuries he sustained in the incident will prevent him from being able to work. 'The most unfortunate thing [about the attack] is that it leaves me immobile, unable to work or move,' Orquera said. 'I am no longer going to be able to do any work and I don't know if I am going to get my arm back the way it should be.' MailOnline has approached Robbie and Delevingne for comment on the alleged incident. Orquera was chased after he was seen snapping pictures of Robbie and Delevingne as they exited the Patagonia Sur restaurant (pictured) early on Sunday morning The actresses are understood to have finished a meal at the Patagonia Sur restaurant (pictured) in Buenos Aires before the attack Margot Robbie was spotted on the verge of tears as she left a West Hollywood home in September just hours after meeting with Cara Delevingne in Los Angeles. It comes amid rumors that Delevingne is experiencing health concerns following a series of absences from large events and erratic behavior The starlets reportedly became close in 2016 when they worked on the DC comic-inspired Suicide Squad film, in which Robbie, 32, gained considerable notoriety for her portrayal of the racy Harley Quinn while Delevingne played a character named Enchantress. The pair had travelled to Argentina after attending Paris fashion week events early last week, and Robbie was spotted in Argentina on Friday, stopping to take pictures with some fans. The incident involving Orquera during the starlets' stay in Argentina comes less than a month after Robbie was pictured leaving the home of her close friend in West Hollywood, seemingly in tears, amid rumours that British supermodel Delevingne was struggling with health concerns. Delevingne, 30, failed to show up to the launch of her fashion collection honouring late designer Karl Lagerfeld, which was held at chic restaurant Saga in the New York City's Financial District in early September. Nor was Delevingne present at the Emmy Awards on September 13, where her cast mates in the series Only Murders in the Building were nominated for a series of awards. A source close to the Delevingne family told The Sun that the star was struggling and had been 'burning the candle at both ends' as of late. A life-changing new pill developed by Australian researchers can help those who suffer allergic reactions such as hay fever and thunderstorm asthma. More than 4.6 million Australians suffer from hay fever, with the dreaded illness normally triggered by an allergic reaction to outdoor or indoor allergens like pollen and dust mites - and is usually at its worst in spring. But the new daily tablet which contains small doses of grass pollen has been proven to help retrain the body's immune system to protect sufferers from having a reaction. Researchers from Melbourne's Monash University discovered the groundbreaking treatment after conducting a study into how the tablet worked for those who were allergic to ryegrass pollen. A new daily pill discovered by researchers is able to provide protection against allergic reactions such as hay fever and thunderstorm asthma (stock image) Head of the Allergy and Clinical Immunology Laboratory at Monash University, Professor Menno van Zelm, explained how the pill is used on 3AW. 'These tablets are put under the tongue for one to two minutes,' he said. 'It's taken up in the mouth.' He explained that the 'small doses of grass pollen' infused into the tablet 'doesn't cause a strong reaction' and is designed to retrain the immune system to protect sufferers. The pill needs to be taken once a day for the four months leading up to the pollen season. But while the treatment works in many people, Professor van Zelm warned it may not help everyone. His Monash University team took 27 Victorians who were allergic to ryegrass pollen and had seasonal rhino conjunctivitis symptoms at least once a week. The cohort was divided into two groups where half took the tablet under the tongue every day while the other half received antihistamines. Researchers from from Melbourne's Monash University (pictured) discovered the treatment option after conducting a study into how the tablet worked for a group of Victorians allergic to ryegrass pollen The tablet, which is infused with doses of grass pollen, retrains the cells in the body's immune system to provide protection (pictured, the research team observes a computer screen with test results) It was discovered that 92 per cent of those who took the pill for the four months leading up to allergy season for three consecutive years reported ongoing benefits. Professor van Zelm said that there were signs that those who received the pill were developing 'immunity' against their allergies. By comparison, those who took the antihistamines had no changes to the cells in their immune system. The research team's pill will be a prescription medication. The married man, who sent her confidential material, was jailed for nine months Former South Yorkshire Police officer Liam Mills, 34, has been jailed for nine months after sending explicit content to a domestic abuse victim and having an inappropriate sexual relationship with her A former South Yorkshire Police officer cried in the dock as he was jailed for starting a relationship with a domestic abuse victim and sending her explicit content. Liam Mills, 34, had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a woman after she went to Barnsley police station to report domestic abuse offences. The vulnerable woman accused her former partner of coercive and controlling behaviour, revealed she struggled with low self-esteem and that she had been hospitalised for an overdose less than two weeks prior. Soon after Mills, a married man, starting texting her and went on to have sex with her on at least two occasions when he was on duty, the Star reports. The father also used his work mobile phone to send confidential material including a video of a murder scene and body-cam footage. On Friday, September 30, Mills wept as a judge told him he has brought 'great shame' and sentenced him to nine months in prison at Sheffield Crown Court. He previously pleaded guilty to two counts of misconduct in a public office and a data protection offence. Mills was arrested in September 2021, after concerned colleagues made an internal report to the force's Counter Corruption Unit. His mobile phones were seized during a search of his home. Analysis of the devices revealed he had also sent messages to a young woman he had met when he attended a report of concern for her safety when she was suffering a mental health crisis. He resigned as a police officer following the investigation. On Friday, September 30, Mills wept as he was sentenced to nine months in prison at Sheffield Crown Court (pictured) An accelerated misconduct hearing went ahead in his absence and it was found that he would have been dismissed if he had not resigned. He has been placed on the barred list which means he will never work in policing again. Deputy Chief Constable Tim Forber said: 'This is an utterly appalling case of a police officer exploiting vulnerable victims of crime who were in need of our help and support. I am satisfied Mills is now in jail where he rightly belongs. 'Mills' misconduct was unforgivable and I assure you that within the force, colleagues are as sickened by his behaviour as members of the public will be. Mills' offending came to light through an internal report to our Counter Corruption Unit. 'The overwhelming majority of our officers and staff proudly reflect our true values and are unafraid to do the right thing and report any matter which falls below our high standards. I hope this case demonstrates that South Yorkshire Police will deal robustly with any employee who abuses their position. 'There is no place in our force for those people.' Judge Jeremy Richardson KC said: 'You are the architect of this catastrophe, only you are to blame.' 'I have no doubt that not only has great shame has been brought upon you because of your conduct, but you have also brought great shame upon your family, including your children.' Candidate for Education Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Lee Ju-ho, left, answers a reporter's question after arriving at Korea Institute of Educational Facility Safety in Yeouido, Seoul, Sept. 30, to prepare for his qualification hearing. Yonhap By Ko Dong-hwan The Yoon Suk-yeol administration is looking to reinstate former Education Minister Lee Ju-ho to the post he served from 2010 to 2013 in the former Lee Myung-bak administration. The position has been vacant since the previous picks made after Yoon's inauguration in May either withdrew before the National Assembly's confirmation hearing, in the first case, or resigned after just weeks due to a backlash against her past drunk-driving record, in the second. The choice of candidate Lee is raising both hopes and worries. Having worked at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management in Sejong Special Self-Governing City as a researcher and professor since 1991, he is well-known for his innovative education drives during his times as minister and vice-minister from 2009 to 2010 as well as presidential secretary under Lee Myung-bak in 2008. One of his policies was the introduction of autonomous private high schools and "meister" high schools to better cater to a broader range of students and teach them skills in high demand by employers. But how he had allocated the national budget to different schools was considered unfair and aroused controversy. He had also supported combining the education ministry with the science and technology ministry. Last April, he declared his intention to run in the election in June for superintendent of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education. He pledged to lower parents' expenses in private after-school education to half by introducing more affordable after-school programs. He also pledged to introduce AI instructors in the classes of every elementary, middle and high school in the country. However, he dropped out of the race, calling for a single candidacy among the conservative candidates. With his education and professional credentials mainly in the economic field, Lee, who was also a lawmaker in the National Assembly from 2004 to 2008, pushed for streamlined efficiency in education according to economic logic. He voiced the needs to downsize the education ministry and expand the role of the deputy prime minister two positions served by the same person simultaneously to give local universities more free rein under the central government and thus increase their productivity and performance. Rather than equity and the affordability of public education for all, Lee is considered better suited for educational excellence and the deregulation of schools and investing more in top-percentile students to maximize their skills. In simpler terms, critics said Lee endorses market ideology over educational values. His main principles, they said, appear to be "competition" and "freedom." Concerns are brewing within the education ministry that if Lee gets appointed, the ministry will inevitably be downsized. There are also worries that the candidate's economics-centric view won't respect the voices of officials and teachers in the education field. Others worried that the Yoon administration seems to be focusing on a narrow talent pool for filling the position. "How shallow must the pool be to resuscitate a person who already served as the education minister more than 10 years ago?" an official from the Korea Federation of Teachers' Associations reportedly said. "Because demands from the educational environment have been evolving, the incoming minister shouldn't blindly push forward his own beliefs." When the Assembly's qualification hearing on Lee will take place remains undecided as of Monday. For now, the education ministry faces a three-week audit by the National Assembly starting Tuesday. One lawmaker from the National Assembly's Education Committee reportedly said that it would be difficult to hold the hearing while conducting the audit at the same time. Top brass in the military are referring more troops than ever before to a terrorism prevention programme over fears they could be recruited by the far right. Freedom of Information Act disclosures show a total of 40 soldiers, air force personnel and sailors have been probed over extremist concerns since 2019. Half of them were referred to Prevent part of the government's counter-terror strategy over alleged extreme right-wing activity. Four serving members of the army were arrested in 2017 under anti-terror laws on suspicion of being members of banned neo-Nazi group National Action. The court heard Afghanistan veteran Lance Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen had been trying to recruit fellow soldiers for National Action to 'cleanse our lands'. Sickening bunting proudly displaying swastikas were found in his possession. Far-right extremist Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen, 34, believed a 'race war' was coming to the UK A box of Nazi flags that were found at at Lance Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen's home address The statistics, obtained by the Times, showed the right-wing extremism referrals in the armed forces had increased from five in 2019 to ten between January 2021 and April 2022. It said the government refused to disclose why the remaining individuals were referred. Stuart McDonald, a member of the Commons home affairs committee and SNP MP, said: 'We know historically and internationally that far-right extremists in particular have ambitions to target, recruit and infiltrate into the armed forces. 'Every instance of extremism in the military is of course hugely concerning. 'So it is vital that the MoD and the armed forces continue to work hard to detect it and root it out.' The document, which an MoD spokesperson confirmed to MailOnline is genuine, was leaked online and advises soldiers how to spot signs of potential right-wing extremism Sailors were feared to have been far-right extremist recruits Two sailors, including one based on a Trident submarine, were investigated over far-right links. They were identified in March 2020 as members of Generation Identity, a white nationalist group whose 'great replacement' ideology was a key inspiration for the Christchurch massacre at two mosques in the New Zealand city in 2019. The Times reports they were reported to have been referred to Prevent but were allowed to remain in the military. Advertisement An MoD spokesman said: 'Defence staff are prohibited from membership of proscribed organisations and personnel will be referred to the appropriate authorities if necessary.' It comes after a report by the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) in July found that extreme right-wing groups were targeting military personnel as potential recruits. The report also found that leaders of the armed forces do not provide direction over whether the personnel can join the groups. The committee said: 'Extreme right-wing terrorists often display an interest in military culture, weaponry and the armed forces or law enforcement organisations - the director-general for MI5 noted that 'many of these people are absolutely fixated with weaponry'. 'This leads both to individuals seeking to join the military, and groups seeking to recruit within the military. 'The fact that the armed forces do not provide clear direction to service personnel regarding membership of any organisation - let alone an extremist one - would appear to be something of an anomaly. 'It could be argued that this is a somewhat risky approach, given the sensitive roles of many service personnel.' British soldier and self-confessed racist Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen was jailed for eight years In 2019 a guide to help high-ranking British officers spot right-wing extremists in their ranks was leaked - and the signs included people calling themselves 'patriots' and making 'inaccurate generalisations about the Left'. The leaflet, made in 2017, is titled 'Extreme Right Wing (XRW) Indicators & Warnings' - and advises senior army staff to look out for people who 'use the term Islamofacism' [sic] and call people who challenge their 'XRW' views 'indoctrinated'. The document, which an MoD spokesperson confirmed to MailOnline was genuine, was leaked online, sparking threads on several social media platforms such as Reddit. Other criteria the leaflet says are an indicator of 'XRW' beliefs include describing multicultural cities as 'lost', adding '-istan' to British place names, having tattoos with 'overt and covert XRW iconography' and viewing opponents as 'traitors'. Speaking of an 'impending racial conflict or 'race war'' and making generalisations about Muslims and Jews are also warning signs, the leaflet states. Officers are told to look out for individuals who discuss the creation of 'white only communities' and 'become increasingly angry at perceived injustices or threats to so called national identity'. Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen, then 34, was convicted of being a member of neo-Nazi terror group National Action and jailed for eight years. The Royal Anglian Regiment soldier was kicked out of the Army after his arrest in September 2017, along with another soldier as he tried to form an underground network and stockpiled weapons. The Army's most senior soldier, Sergeant Major Glenn Haughton, had previously posted a social media video which said: 'If you're a serving soldier or a would-be soldier, and you hold these intolerant and extremist views, as far as I'm concerned, there is no place for you in the British Army - so get out.' The leaflet was designed to 'educate Chains of Command on the indicators and warnings of personnel who may harbour extremist views', and was said to highlight 'several indicators and warnings, the demonstration of a significant number of which could be associated with someone with extreme right-wing views'. Kwasi Kwarteng today admitted that 'with hindsight' he probably should not have joined a 'Champagne reception' for City traders in the immediate aftermath of his Emergency Budget. The Chancellor spent the evening of September 23 at a Tory networking event - also attended by party chair Jake Berry. The gathering happened as the Pound was hammered on the markets amid alarm over unfunded tax cuts and the lack of scrutiny from the independent OBR. The Treasury has denied that there was anything inappropriate about the event. But Mr Kwarteng conceded this morning that it did not look good. 'With hindsight it probably wasn't the best day to go,' he told LBC during a round of interviews. Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng (pictured in Birmingham today) spent the evening after his Budget at a Tory networking event - also attended by party chair Jake Berry Appearing on Sky News' Ridge on Sunday, Mr Berry insisted there was nothing wrong with the function and Mr Kwarteng merely talked about his 'plan for growth' Mr Kwarteng said the event had been planned for 'a few weeks' beforehand. 'I spent, I think, quarter of an hour there, or maybe a bit longer. It was a party event, we have party events all the time,' he said. Mr Kwarteng added: 'I think it was a difficult call and I totally get how it looks. I just feel that it was something that I was signed up to do and I had to do.' He acknowledged that 'with hindsight it probably wasn't the best day to go'. The admission came after Liz Truss and ministers defended the Chancellor going to the reception. Appearing on Sky News' Ridge on Sunday, Mr Berry insisted there was nothing wrong with the function and Mr Kwarteng merely talked about his 'plan for growth'. Meanwhile, the PM said meeting business people was part of Mr Kwarteng's job - although she also stressed that she does not manage his diary. Mr Berry told Sky News: 'I was there so I listened to what he said and what he talked about was his plan for growth.' He added: 'I can categorically rule out that in terms of the address he made to the group of people who were there as part of this normal treasurer's event, he did not give any insight into future plans and I'm sure in terms of his private conversations he didn't give any.' Mr Berry suggested Mr Kwarteng was drinking a soft drink rather than Champagne, adding: 'We often have drinks receptions for donors in the Conservative Party and in fact these people should be lauded because we don't have public funding of political parties and these are people who go out and make money and donate to political parties in the same way as they do for the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats.' Ms Truss told the BBC: 'The Chancellor meets business people all the time, that's his job. 'I do not manage Kwasi Kwarteng's diary, believe me.' A source close to Mr Kwarteng said yesterday: 'It is completely normal for the Chancellor to engage with businesses after a fiscal event.' The source added that Mr Kwarteng had 'addressed key stakeholders in the business world, including the financial services sector, to talk through what the plans mean for jobs, growth and investment in the UK'. A drunken mother who hurled vile racist abuse at a Turkish taxi driver in front of her two children has been fined 200. Joanna Brophy, 32, told the driver 'You do not belong in this country' after he dropped her off at her home in Warrington, Cheshire at 1am following a house party on June 4. She also said 'You f***ing coloured t**t' while stumbling out of Turkey-born Ozkan Koc's private hire taxi with the three children. The mother was the only adult in charge of her two daughters, aged seven and five, and an 11-year-old family friend who was due to have a sleepover. Brophy was meant to look after all of the children at her home but was instead arrested after her vile abuse. Mr Koc, 40, called the police after he thought that the passenger was going to strike him during her foul rant. After officers arrested Brophy at the property, she was left in the cells to sober up but claimed she could barely remember what she had said to Mr Koc. At Warrington Magistrates' Court, Brophy pleaded guilty to racially aggravated embarrassment as well as being drunk in charge of a child. Joanna Brophy, 32, was fined 200 after hurling vile racist abuse at a Turkish taxi driver, telling him: 'You do not belong in this country' and 'You f***ing coloured t**t.' The mother was in a taxi home from a drunken house party despite being the only adult in charge of her two children, aged seven and five, and an 11-year-old family friend who was due to have a sleepover On top of a 200 fine she was also ordered to pay 100 to Mr Koc. Prosecutor Laura Simpson said: 'The matters go back to June 4 in the early hours of the morning. 'The defendant was with her two children aged five and seven, and a friend of one of the children aged 11. She got a taxi from one address to the defendant's address. 'The victim is the taxi driver. He said he could tell that the defendant was drunk. 'When they arrived at the defendant's address, she was abusive to the taxi driver, calling him names. 'She said 'You stupid d***head. You do not belong in this country', and 'You f***ing coloured t**t.' 'She then approached the driver's door. The window was open and she raised her arm and the victim believed she was going to strike him. 'As a result, he closed the window and called the police. Officers attended the defendant's address. They knocked at the door and the defendant answered. 'She was very intoxicated and the only adult present in charge of three children.' At Warrington Magistrates' Court (pictured), Brophy pleaded guilty to racially aggravated embarrassment as well as being drunk in charge of a child Mrs Simpson said that in a subsequent police interview, Brophy could not recall what she had said to Mr Koc. 'She remembered asking him which country he came from and was really sorry for any racist remarks,' the prosecutor added. 'She confirmed that she was intoxicated looking after three children.' Brophy was also ordered to pay 215 in costs and victim surcharge, and attend 25 days of rehabilitation activity with the probation service as part of a 12-month community order. Chairman of the bench Alf Bean told her: 'The bench finds it extremely disappointing that you should come before the court aged 32 with no previous convictions. 'And to come before the court having behaved this way towards a taxi driver because of the colour of his skin is thoroughly unacceptable. We take a dim view of that. 'This behaviour was particularly bad enough but it was exacerbated by the fact that children were there. Behaving in this manner is wholly unacceptable, it is reprehensible. 'However, I am mindful that this appears to be a one-off incident. Do not let it happen again.' Earlier after the magistrates said that they had read the probation report on Brophy, solicitor Susan Hedges, who was representing her, said: 'It is a full and helpful report and there is not a great deal I would add.' The couple were heading to a rally in Corsica in their vintage Aston Martin His wife Henriette was airlifted to hospital and is in a life-threatening condition A wealthy British expat has been killed and his wife is critically injured after he smashed his vintage Aston martin into a ditch in Italy. David Twaites, 82 from London, who lived in the canton of Vaud in Switzerland, was travelling in the convertible with a group of British and Swiss friends to Corsica for a custom-made car rally. The expat lost control of the right-hand drive car between Albonese and Montara in Lombardy near Milan and drove it into a ditch. The expat lost control of the right-hand drive car between Albonese and Montara in Lombardy near Milan and drove it into a ditch His wife Henriette, 80, who is from Switzerland, fell unconscious and was taken by helicopter in a life-threatening condition to San Matteo hospital. The accident occurred on a straight stretch of road near an entrance to a landfill site. Police and firefighters were called to the scene and they tried to resuscitate the driver but they pronounced him dead. The group were heading to the port of Genoa on local roads where they would then catch a ferry to Corsica, according to local news site La Provincia Pavese. The Via Flaminia rally sees classic car lovers cruise through the beautiful winding roads of the Mediterranean island, eating local food and drinking wine. The accident occurred on a straight stretch of road near an entrance to a landfill site (road pictured) It was established in 2005 and describes itself as the 'rally with a smile' and 30 cars are allowed to enter. Organisers say on their website: 'The Via Flaminia is a relaxed rally where the competition serves the atmosphere, winning is not a goal in itself.' The rally is relaxed and there is no time limit, and there is often a competition for last place for the drivers that spend the most time admiring the stunning scenery. The Foreign Office told MailOnline: 'We are assisting the family of a British man who has died in Italy and are in contact with the local police.' Advertisement The mother of murdered schoolboy Rikki Neave was wrongly pursued for his killing after police dismissed evidence casting doubt on their theory that she was the culprit, a new podcast has claimed. The six-year-old was found strangled, naked and arranged in a 'star pose' in woods near his home in Peterborough, the day after he was reported missing by his abusive mother Ruth Neave on November 28, 1994. Neave was initially Cambridgeshire Police's prime suspect and went on trial for his murder in 1996. The police claimed that she killed her son at his home before carrying his body to the nearby woods in a push chair. She was found not guilty, but was sentenced to seven years in prison after admitting child cruelty. For nearly two decades, the case remained unsolved until Cambridgeshire Police agreed to re-open the investigation in 2015 following repeated campaigning by Neave. In April, 40-year-old James Watson was convicted of Rikki's murder after damning new evidence came to light. He was sentenced to life in prison in June. However, new BBC podcast The Boy in the Woods has claimed the police ignored expert forensic evidence that challenged the case against Neave, whilst the jury at her trial were not alerted to the findings. Scientist Professor Tony Brown, who was tasked by police with examining Rikki's clothes early in the original investigation, said that mud on his shoes proved the child walked into the woods, but never walked out again. He told the BBC that he also offered to test Neave's push chair for mud from the woods, but the object was never sent to him. At the time, the law allowed police not to disclose evidence to a jury that undermined the prosecution's case. The senior officer who led the 2015 re-investigation said in response to the BBC's findings that he and his team could not explain 'why this evidence was not used originally,' but added it 'would not happen now'. The mother of murdered schoolboy Rikki Neave was wrongly pursued for his killing after police dismissed evidence casting doubt on their theory that she was the culprit, a new podcast has claimed. Above: Ruth Neave in 2020; Rikki in his school uniform Watson was finally brought to justice in part because of forgotten pieces of Sellotape that contained clothing fibres carrying his DNA. He was 13 when he carried out the crime. Whilst nearly all of the evidence that had been collected in the original investigation had been destroyed or returned to Rikki's family, police found envelopes containing the pieces of sticky tape. They bore fibres collected from Rikki's clothing that were found to be a 'billion to one' match to Watson's DNA. Suspicion originally fell on Rikki's mother because of the documented instances of abuse that she had inflicted on her son. She was described in Watson's trial as a 'wholly unfit mother' who used Rikki as a drug runner and 'punch bag'. On one occasion, Rikki was allegedly left screaming after being locked out of the house in his pyjamas; in another it was claimed Neave had held her son upside down on a bridge as he screamed. She had also grabbed the child around his throat, pushed him against a wall and lifted him up 'to the point his feet were about a foot above the ground'. In the original case, Watson's name was discounted very quickly. After Rikki was found dead, it emerged that his body was clean as if it had been freshly bathed and the position of his arms, hands and legs symmetrically set out. Even his thumbs were in same position. Above: The spot where his body was found A policeman leaving flowers at Welland County Primary School in Peterborough, the school attended by six-year-old Rikki Neave Today, 40-year-old James Watson (pictured right when he was a child), who was 13 when Rikki disappeared, was convicted at the Old Bailey of the child's murder seven years after new evidence was found in a 'cold case review' Police at the scene where the naked body of six-year-old murder victim, Rikki Neave, was found in undergrowth less than 500 yards from his home The Daily Mail's original report of when Ruth Neave was found not guilty of her son's murder. It noted how care workers involved in the case had been suspended Speaking on the Boy in the Woods podcast about his examination of Rikki's belongings, Professor Brown said: 'I focused on one shoe, the right shoe, because it had mud on the positive tread and that is very significant because the underside of your shoe - the negative bits, the grooves - they hold mud, even if you have been in a muddy place and then walked on the streets, they will go on holding mud. 'But the positive tread, that is the ridges, they don't normally have mud on them as soon as you go on to tarmac, or a pavement or a hard surface. 'And the fact that there was actually a lump of mud which looked the same as the mud that was on the rest of the shoe, that said to me that the shoes had walked in to the wood but hadn't walked out. And that is critical'. Presenter Winifred Robinson said Professor Brown also offered to test the pushchair that police claimed Neave used to carry her son's body, but it was never sent to him. 'He told me it was the only case in his career where the evidence was disregarded,' she added. Former Assistant Chief Constable Paul Fullwood, who led the 2015 re-investigation of Rikki's murder, said: 'The trial this year happened as a result of our 2014/15 review and 2015 re-investigation. 'From the outset, we were determined to review all of the evidence available from the original case and understand what it told us about Rikki's death and the person responsible for his murder. 'This was done taking into consideration the forensic advances of the past three decades and the enhanced methodology now adopted in policing when investigating serious crime. 'This was a completely new team and policing has evolved significantly in three decades, this includes the rules around disclosure [Criminal Procedures and Investigations Act 1996]. 'As a new team we can't say why this evidence was not used originally but we know that this would not happen now and our re-investigation has resulted in the person responsible for Rikki's death finally being found and dealt with. Providing Rikki's family with long awaited justice.' Mr Fullwood previously said that the original investigating officers had a 'tunnel vision' focus on Neave. He said he believed that if Neave's treatment of her son had not been so brutal, the case would have been re-opened sooner. He said there was 'always a feeling' among the officers involved in the original case that Neave 'may have done it'. The new podcast also heard from Rikki's mother. 'They interviewed me for days and all the time I begged them to try to find my son's real killer,' she said. 'What no-one knew until your investigation was how the police had discarded scientific evidence that proved I could not have killed him in the way they later described in court. 'They have destroyed my life. I am just relieved the truth is finally out.' She added: 'I am just so furious because they had just had me in their sights and they would not let me go, making stories up, and I have got to live with them stories for the rest of my life and I am so pleased that somebody's took their time to turn around and do such a project, to clear my name.' Neave (pictured left with her son in the late 1980s and right at his funeral) had been described in Watson's trial as a 'wholly unfit' mother who used her son as a drug runner and 'punch bag' Neave was alleged to have treated all her children in a 'savage' manner. She is pictured above in February 2020 with her husband Gary Rogers Watson was arrested on suspicion of murder in 2016. By then, he was already a serial offender. Among his misdeeds was the setting alight of a a British Transport Police station in Peterborough. After he was bailed, Watson fled to Portugal, where he posted photos of himself on the beach. He had boasted about having left the UK in a mobile home, despite having no passport. He then ended up homeless and begged to be flown home in emails to his probation officer. Watson was eventually arrested in Lisbon and flown back to the UK. It was not until 2020 that he was charged. In the face of the DNA evidence linking him to Rikki's murder, the criminal claimed he had picked the child up during a brief encounter in the street on the day of his disappearance. He said he had lifted Rikki up so he could look through a hole in a fence to watch diggers at work. But he also claimed that he did not know 'what the true events are' and said it was 'possible' he had not touched Rikki. However, police were able to establish that the fence in question was not there in 1994. Witnesses also saw Watson leading RIkki to the woods an hour before the schoolboy was killed. He had also been reported months earlier for sexually assaulting a five-year-old classmate of Rikki's. Days before the killing, he told his mother about an imagined radio report of a two-year-old child being kidnapped, strangled and left in a dyke. Jurors also heard during his trial that he had a 'grotesque interest' in child murder. The killer's half-brother, Andrew Bailey, recalled how Watson had regularly visited Rikki's home. This testimony contradicted Watson's initial claim that he had never met the child. Watson was convicted of murder after 36 hours of deliberation by jurors. A University of Chicago student organization committed to 'racial justice' is hosting a meeting on race that is only for black, indigenous and people of color. The event, described as 'A BIPOC-ONLY space for honest discussion of navigating race at UChicago between new and old students,' will be held by the group UChicago United on October 15. The event is titled 'Race @ Chicago' as part of its 'Dis-orientation' campaign. 'BIPOC' stands for Black, Indigenous and People of Color. The Dis-Orientation 2022 page invites students to sign up for events to learn about the 'real' UChicago. The sign-up pages urges new students to 'learn about what UChicago doesn't want you to know... and to build community with current students working for justice on and off campus!' The group had previously called for the University of Chicago Police Department to be defunded after the shooting of black student Charles Soji Thomas while he was experiencing a mental health crisis. 'Understanding the violence Charles faced as part of a larger, systemic problem, our goal has always been to abolish our campus police force,' they write on their website. A University of Chicago pressure group dedicated to racial justice is holding an event to discuss matters of race on campus honestly that is only open to black, indigenous and people of color The discussion is part of the group UChicago United's fall 'Dis-orientation 2022' series of fall events Flyers appeared on campus in December 2016 that seemed to glorify Hitler and Nazism, prompting concerned members of UChicago to form UChicago United A construction-themed frat party for Cinco de Mayo was deemed to be racially insensitive and another provocation that motivated the founders to for UChicago United The comments beneath the Facebook event for the frat party 'FIJI Presents: Get Hammered' left little doubt that for some the event was racist in nature Some other events planned for the fall season include a meeting on anti-militarism, a workshop on policing, gentrification, and abolition, and an 'Activist Open House' where students can meet 'reps from groups fighting for survivor, migrant, labor, racial, environmental, disability justice.' The group UChicago United was formed in May 2017 by 'students of color committed to racial justice' in response to a number of racist incidents that had been taking place on campus, according to their website. One of the inciting incidents which prompted the founders to form the group was allegations of a racially insensitive construction-themed party on Cinco de Mayo by one of the fraternity campus chapters. Another was the distribution of flyers on campus promoting Nazi ideology and imagery of Hitler and swastikas by a group called the Atom Waffen Division. Their slogan was: 'No degeneracy, no tolerance, hail victory.' UChicago United pursues a number of campaigns that work to 'structurally transform the University of Chicagos campus into a truly inclusive space that fits the needs of and empowers students of color.' One of the pressure group's demands is to create a department to teach Critical Race Theory. Among its other demands are calls for the university to hire more faculty of color, modify its classes to be 'less Euro-centric', build cultural centers and create a Ethnic Studies Department. There are concerns a heavily-pregnant British mother who was detained at passport control and jailed at the start of her holiday in Tenerife could be forced to give birth in prison. Jamielee Fielding from Livingston in Scotland was slapped with a 420 (367) fine in 2021 after she was involved in a drunken altercation in the popular Spanish tourist hub of Malaga, but left the country without paying her debt. One year on, the seven-months pregnant 32-year-old jetted to Tenerife for a family holiday with her father and brother in August, but was immediately identified at passport control and taken into custody. Despite offering to pay the fine on the spot, Fielding was whisked to jail and was later handed a sentence of four months. She now faces the prospect of giving birth in a Spanish prison, and was reportedly being held without access to medication needed to treat gestational diabetes. Jamielee Fielding was arrested and sentenced to four months in prison in Tenerife. She was fined in Spain last year but left without paying Fielding went to Tenerife (pictured) in August on a family holiday but was arrested at passport control Fielding told BBC Scotland that her predicament was a 'living hell' and has appealed to British authorities to help secure her release in time for the birth of her child. Her sentence runs until December 16, but her baby is due to be born on November 28. 'It's been unimaginable. I can't contemplate having my baby here in a foreign hospital,' Fielding said. 'All I want is to be back home in a Scottish hospital with my family around me to have a safe birth... She's due on 28 November and I've pretty much been told to prepare to have her here.' Fielding had travelled to Malaga last year to identify the body of her mother, who died on holiday in Spain. She claimed the grief had put her in a bad state of mind and led to uncharacteristically drunk and disruptive behaviour which earned her the fine and ultimately saw her leave the country without paying. The mother served the first six weeks of her sentence in El Rosario prison - a high security facility housing a series of violent criminals. Her father meanwhile said he was not notified of her arrest or where she was being detained, according to The Mirror. It was also claimed the heavily pregnant woman was deprived of access to medication needed to manage gestational diabetes. Fielding last week managed to secure a transfer to a low-security facility which grants her leave on weekends, though she must still remain behind bars from Monday to Friday. Livingston MP Hannah Bardell is now campaigning for Fielding's release and has called on the Foreign Office to conduct an investigation into the treatment of British citizens in Spain. The heavily pregnant mother served the first six weeks of her sentence in El Rosario prison - a high security facility housing a series of violent criminals Bardell told fellow MPs in the Commons last week: 'Jamielee is seven months pregnant, and we have grave concerns that the health consequences, stress, and poor treatment she has received while in prison could have a harmful effect... it is imperative that she is released immediately from this disproportionate sentence and brought back to Scotland to be with her family. 'The way Jamielee has been treated in Spain has been disgusting. This should not be tolerated and an investigation by the Foreign Office must look into the way British Citizens are treated in Spain. 'Whilst my constituent is under the care of the Spanish Authorities she must be treated with dignity, care, and respect under the European Union's Charter of Fundamental Rights.' Fielding posted an image of her sonogram on Facebook just prior to leaving for the trip to Tenerife in August, suggesting her child would be named Ariella. She told BBC Scotland that her time spent in prison was full of anxiety and expressed guilt over the potential effects this could have on her unborn baby. 'It was a constant worry, just the sheer anxiety the full time and you've got nothing else to do other than overthink... I felt so guilty about her and what she was going through.' A three-year-old boy was shot in the head and killed in the back of his mother's car in a Chicago road rage incident that has horrified the local community. Mateo Zastro was riding with his family in the white SUV on the Southwest Side Friday night when a red sedan pulled up and a gunman in the back seat opened fire. The mother was reported to have tried to drive away after becoming embroiled in some sort of dispute with a red sedan after leaving the mall near 44th & West Marquette Road in the West Lawn neighborhood around 8.30pm. But the red car followed her and brazenly shot into the family vehicle, hitting Mateo in the head. He was rushed to Advocate Christ Medical Center but the dinosaur-loving toddler died eight hours later. 'The mother attempted to leave from the other vehicles, when the offender subsequently followed her,' 8th District Commander Bryan Spreyne said. 'Several shots were fired.' Mateo is the second child to be shot in the head while sitting in a vehicle in Chicago in less than a month, as Mayor Lori Lightfoot struggles to get a grip on the city's spiraling murder rate. The Windy City ranks seventh in America for murders, according to the New York Times. Mateo Zastro, 3, was riding with his family in the back of the white SUV when a gunman shot him in the back of the head The white SUV carrying a family of four was shot out in a road rage incident after leaving the mall near 44th & West Marquette Road in the West Lawn neighborhood around 8.30pm Friday Mateo was in the car with his mother and three siblings when another car reportedly got into a road rage incident with them and decided to open fire The suspects were thought to have been driving a red Ford Mustang but other reports said it could be a Dodge Charger. 'I want to offer our deep and profound condolences to the family of this precious 3-year-old child. Our hearts are broken by the senseless act of violence that took this child's life.' 'We will not rest until those responsible for this senseless and cowardly act of violence are brought to justice,' he added. The mother and her three other children in the car were left unscathed by the brutal assault. She reportedly drove away from the shooting and flagged down officers for help, according to police radio transmissions. 'That mother is still grieving that,' said community advocate Andrew Holmes. 'All she's doing is clutching onto two dinosaurs, and this was the baby's favorite toy, the dinosaurs.' 'This is the second child this year shot in the head in a vehicle. We have baby killers out here on the street,' Holmes said. The mother was too distraught to speak to the media. Community Advocate Andrew Holmes has offered a $7,000 reward for information on the killers and lamented that 'We have baby killers out here on the street' Door bell footage appeared to capture something of the incident, which has left the community devastated Mateo Zastro sniffing a flower as he smiles for the camera 'I just got panicked and hit the ground,' Roger Ramirez told CBS News, who lives a few doors down from where the shooting happened and got a bullet through his window. 'It came directly through my window and when I was closing the blinds, that's when I heard the impact and I just panicked,' he said. 'It's just so sad to see it escalate to that and kill that little boy,' Ramirez said. 'I moved here recently because I thought it was a safe neighborhood.' The city's ShotSpotter gunshot-detection system indicated that 10 high-capacity rounds were fired in the vicinity of that residential Southwest Side intersection, according to the Chicago Sun Times. Holmes has offered a $7,000 reward to anyone who provides information or tip-offs that lead to an arrest and conviction in the tragic case. They estimate that 284 youngsters have been shot in Chicago already this year, with 43 of them aged 17 or younger fatally. There have been 33 gunshot victims 12 or younger, and six of them were killed. The youngest, 5-month-old Cecilia Thomas, was traveling in a car with her father when she was shot in the head in South Shore in June. The homicide rate for Chicago has diverged significantly from that of peer US cities Los Angeles and New York over the past few years, according to police statistics. The murder rate in Chicago has diverged massively from comparable American cities such as New York and Los Angeles, Mayor Lori Lightfoot has struggled to get crime under control during her tenure, with overalls crimes up 37 per cent on last year After being fairly comparable for most of the second half of the twentieth century, Chicago's murder rate per 100,000 starts to shoot off into a league of its own. The Windy City sees 18.4 murders per 100,000 of the population, compared to 7.5 for LA and 3.6 for New York. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who was sworn into office in May 2019, has vowed to tackle the city's crime rates, but so far without much success. The murder rate in 2022 stands at 545, just 120 behind 2021's record murder rate of 645 with three months of the year to go. Before Lightfoot became mayor, the murder rate had been falling for four consecutive years. Ukrainian forces are advancing in the south and may have scored a major breakthrough of Russian lines as they also take more territory in the east. Kyiv's troops are attacking down the west bank of the Dnipro River and have taken the town of Zolota Balka, it was reported Monday, amid claims from pro-Kremlin sources that troops had retreated as far as Dudchany, around 15 miles further south. It comes after the key city of Lyman, in Donetsk, was captured by Ukrainian forces at the weekend, with Kyiv's commanders saying troops are now attacking the town of Kreminna, in neighbouring Luhansk. It means that Putin's troops are now losing ground in three out of the four Ukrainian regions he annexed last week - declaring that any attack on them would be considered an attack on Russia and may trigger a nuclear response. Ukrainian troops are filmed ambushing Russian armoured vehicles using anti-tank launchers in Donetsk, leaving at least one of them destroyed The wreck of a Russian Tigr armoured vehicle is abandoned on a forest road (bottom centre) in Donetsk as others fleet (top) following a Ukrainian ambush Ukraine is also advancing in Kherson, in the south, were troops are reported to have broken through Russian lines on the Dnipro River (top) Anton Gerashchenko, a senior adviser to the Ukrainian government, posted footage online Sunday purporting to be from the town of Zolota Balka in southern Kherson region, showing a flag-waving soldier posing with civilians. The Institute for the Study of War, a respected US think tank, also reported overnight that Ukraine had captured the town while President Zelensky also hailed Ukrainian advances in the region. However, pro-Russia military bloggers were far more pessimistic - claiming Ukraine had scored a major breakthrough of the frontlines. According to multiple accounts, Putin's troops have been forced to pull back to the town of Dudchany - meaning the Ukrainians had advanced around 20 miles. If confirmed, it would be one of the largest breakthroughs in Kherson since Ukraine began its offensive in early August, and would be a heavy blow for Putin's men. Meanwhile, hundreds of miles away to the north east, Ukraine said it had captured the town of Torske - located around seven miles east of the city of Lyman, which it had liberated on Saturday. Serhii Cherevatyi, spokesman for Ukraine's eastern command, said troops are now attacking Russian units in Kreminna - located in neighbouring Luhansk. Taking the city would open the door to an assault on the twin cities of Severodonetsk and Lysychansk, which Russia spent weeks and huge amounts of manpower capturing over the summer. Meanwhile more attacks were reported further to the north, heading east out of the city of Borova towards Svatove, which is also located in Luhansk. Kherson, Luhansk and Donetsk - together with Zaporizhzhia - were annexed by Putin in a major speech inside the Kremlin last week. Ukraine liberated the city of Lyman, in Donetsk, at the weekend and has since advanced into the nearby town of Torske Kyiv's men have been rapidly advancing into the Donbas region from Kharkiv since pulling off a major counter-attack there last month (pictured, a Russian flag is removed in Donetsk) A Ukrainian flag waves in a residential area heavily damaged in the village of Dolyna in Donetsk after it was re-taken by Kyiv's troops The despot declared that the regions would be part of Russia 'forever', while his spokesman said any attack on them would be considered an attack on the mainland. Kyiv has rejected the annexation, saying it is based on sham referenda that hold no international weight and has vowed to continue liberating the occupied territories. Ukraine's western backers have also vowed never to respect the land-grab - the largest in Europe since the Second World War - and say there will be no let-up in weapons supplies, despite Putin's threats to go nuclear. It comes amid reports that the despot is increasingly making decisions in private with members of the Russian elite complaining that he is acting rashly. Fifteen civil servants, politicians and company executives told The Telegraph that Putin is refusing to talk things through with his senior officials. 'There is a total lack of coordination. It's a mess. Putin tells everyone different things,' a source close to the government said. Speaking about the Ukrainian rout of Russian troops that prompted Putin to make his nuclear threats and conscript civilians into the military, the source added: 'What were we doing in Kharkiv? No one has a clue.' Another government source laid out a grim picture for the war ahead. 'The 300,000 [conscripts] are just a distraction. Now it's partial, but then there will be mass 'conscription', and after that, tactical nuclear weapons,' they said. Putin is now more than seven months into what he designed to be a days-long 'special military operation' in Ukraine to take back control of the country. Having failed first of all to take Kyiv in a lightning offensive at the start of the war, his offensive in the eastern Donbas has also ground to a halt. Ukraine then launched two counter-attacks in Kherson and Kharkiv in August, the first of which is making slow but steady progress and the second of which achieved a major breakthrough that has placed Russia on the back foot. Putin now appears to have largely given up on his plans to advance and is instead digging in his heels and trying to hold on to territory he has already taken in the hopes of playing off the war to the Russian people as a success. Vladimir Putin has annexed four regions of Ukraine to Russia, but is now losing ground in three of them amid fears he could escalate to using a nuke A burned-out Russian tank is seen on top of a hill in the Kharkiv region, which was retaken from Russia in a counter-attack last month He has called up 300,000 military reserves to shore up his wavering frontlines and declared occupied parts of Ukraine to be part of Russia. He has also falsely accused NATO of plotting nuclear strikes on Russia and has warned of retaliation with similar weapons. At the same time, mysterious blasts destroyed the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipes under the Baltic Sea last week in what European leaders called sabotage. Though nobody other than Ukraine has blamed Moscow aloud, in private security officials have said there is little doubt the Kremlin was behind it. The aim, experts said, was to send a warning to the West that its critical undersea infrastructure - including pipes and cables - is vulnerable to attack. Putin appears to be gambling that acts of sabotage coupled with overt threats can break Western unity around Ukraine, and dry up the flow of cash and weapons currently heading to Kyiv. That would likely force the war to a stalemate from which Putin would hope to secure a ceasefire deal, allowing him to rebuild his armed forces and attack again - as he did after annexing Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Advertisement A Second World War enthusiast who spent more than a decade building an exact replica of a Spitfire has finally been given permission to take to the skies. Retired engineer Steve Markham spent an astonishing 11,250 hours painstakingly piecing the 'iconic' British aircraft together in a barn at his home, ably assisted by wife Kay. Now, 16 years after he started the project, the qualified pilot - who as a child was inspired by classic movie Reach for the Sky - has finally got the official green light to fly the hand made plane. Although his first planned trip is for the couple to travel across the Solent to the Isle of Wight for ice cream, Mr Markham has his sights set further afield. He said: 'Now I can fly anywhere. I could go up to Scotland for a day, but I can also take my wife. 'My first flight will be for ice cream on the Isle of Wight. We'll go across the Solent and around the Isle. Flying high: Second World War enthusiast and trained pilot, Steve Markham, has spent 11,250 hours painstakingly constructing his homemade Spitfire. He is pictured in the cockpit of the iconic aircraft at his home near Odiham, Hampshire The project to build the replica took Steve about 16 years to complete. He now hopes to take his first flight across the Solent to the Isle of Wight soon - where he will pick up an ice cream The 200mph aircraft is a replica of the PL793, a photo reconnaissance Spitfire, which was based at RAF Odiham in Hampshire in the last year of the war. 'But my wife has family that are Scottish, so at some point, we want to fly up to Scotland, so that'll be the next long flight. 'The aircraft has such range that it can go from here to Rome non-stop. Next June, when the days are longer, I'm going to get up early and fly to Rome. 'I'm going to have a nice Italian lunch with my wife and then fly back the same day.' The 200mph aircraft is a replica of the PL793, a photo reconnaissance Spitfire, which was based at RAF Odiham in Hampshire in the last year of the war. Mr Markham, who lives near to the base, said he fell in love with the famous fighter plane after watching the film biography of aviator Douglas Bader. 'I've wanted a Spitfire ever since I was eight years old and I saw Reach for the Sky,' he said. 'The PL793 was the most successful of the Odiham-based RAF aircraft. 'They were painted blue to help hide in the sky. They were the spy planes of their day, and so very little was written about their achievements. 'They were the best of the bunch. My model is in memory of their amazing work. It's a tribute. 'Without the RAF and their success in WW2, the lives of my generation would have been very different. We owe them a great debt.' In the past, Mr Markham - who has had a pilot licence since the 1970s - tried to buy vintage models but always got outbid, so he decided to build his own. He bought a kit for the aircraft's frame in 2006, but he bought the engine parts, propellers and paint separately. Steve bought a kit for the aircraft's frame in 2006, but he purchased the engine parts, propellers and paint separately to then assemble them all in his barn, pictured Steve was ably assisted by his wife, Kay - pictured in the cockpit of the Spitfire - throughout the 16 years it took to build the aircraft Steve adds the finishing touches to the wing as he sprays paint onto it inside his barn workshop in Hampshire Steve described the aircraft as a 'complicated beast' to put together. The aircraft enthusiast is pictured working on his Spitfire's engine at Popham Airfield near Basingstoke, Hampshire He said: 'The Spitfire is one of the most iconic aircraft, and everyone who has ever flown one has said how wonderful they are to fly. 'If you want to buy a World War II original Spitfire, it now costs between two and four million pounds. This is a much less expensive way of doing it.' He described it as a 'complicated beast' to put together, with some parts not fitting properly that had to be replaced. Mrs Markham helped him with the rivets that required two people to set in place and also made the leather upholstery. He said: 'She's been wonderfully supportive throughout the whole process.' Over the years word of his aircraft soon spread, and he had people asking if they could come to see it in the early stages which slowed down the process. He said: 'I would say yes, you can come see it. But it did mean stopping work on the aircraft for half an hour to an hour at a time. It slowed down what needed to be done.' He finally completed the Spitfire in 2017. But it has taken five years to get a full flight permit from the Civil Aviation Authority. In 2018, it was flown by a test pilot but the engine overheated, so it had to come back to his workshop for repairs. On later test flights he was restricted to a range of 35 nautical miles from the airfield and wasn't allowed to have passengers. In July of this year, Mr Markham successfully completed the test flight programme and was granted permission to venture further afield and to be accompanied. Since he started construction he has asking visitors if they could donate to the RAF Benevolent Fund, which supports serving and former RAF members and their families. When he first finished the replica, Mr Markham had a roll-out party where 200 people attended that raised 4,000 for the RAF fund. The RAF helped him in return, letting him use an airfield for test flights. For 10 years before he retired he supplied parachute training simulators to the RAF and he was 'always welcomed into the RAF community.' The complete Spitfire 'flies beautifully,' he added. 'It feels fantastic. It's gorgeous. It's quite fast.. It's about twice as fast as the other aircraft I've flown before. It's something special.' Former President Moon Jae-in, front right, walks with Lee Jae-myung, front left, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, at Moon's home in Yangsan in South Gyeongsang Province, in this Aug. 29 file photo. Moon said the state audit institution's recent attempt to question him over a South Korean fisheries official killed by North Korea in 2020 is "very rude." Newsis By Jung Min-ho Former President Moon Jae-in said the state audit agency's recent attempt to question him over a South Korean fisheries official killed by North Korea in 2020 is "very rude," according to Rep. Youn Kun-young, his former aide. The lawmaker of the main opposition liberal Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) told reporters at the National Assembly, Monday, that Moon said it was "very rude" and improper for the Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) to call him and send him an official email regarding the case. After receiving the email on Sept. 28, the office of Moon's secretary told the institution two days later that he will not answer any of its questions. The 47-year-old fisheries official, who was unarmed, was killed in September 2020 by the North Korean military while adrift in the North's territorial waters and his body was incinerated afterwards. It was initially concluded that he was killed during his attempt to defect to the North. But the story took a drastic turn as the military and police, under the Yoon Suk-yeol government, said there was not sufficient evidence that he was intentionally trying to cross the border. Over the past few months, the prosecution has been looking into who was involved in drawing that conclusion. "The BAI appears to try to curry favor with the people in power despite its duty to maintain political neutrality. We should find the whole truth behind this," Youn said. More than 10 lawmakers, who worked for the previous administration, appeared at the press conference where they vowed to fight against what they described as "political retaliation" by the Yoon administration. WA Police say the father, aged in his 50s, had no real swimming experience He was attempting to save his teenage sons, who he believed were drowning A father has drowned at Yallingup Beach in Western Australia on Saturday A father has drowned while attempting to aid his teenage sons at a popular beach in Western Australia's southwest. Emergency services were called to Yallingup Beach on Saturday evening where the man, aged in his 50s, had been retrieved from the water. Beachgoers attempted to resuscitate the man but he could not be saved. A father drowned at Yallingup Beach (pictured) in Western Australia on Saturday while trying to save his two teenage sons WA police said the man, who was aged in his 50s, had no real swimming experience and that there was nothing to suggest his sons were 'doing anything risky' (stock image) South West WA Acting Superintendent John Bowman said the man had swum out to aid his two sons, aged 13 and 15. 'To him, they looked like they were struggling in the water, and unfortunately, he drowned trying to save them,' he told ABC radio on Monday. 'The dad had no real swimming experience. 'Like most parents do, they go to the aid of their kids when they're struggling, thinking they can try and save them. But the boys were fine, and unfortunately he wasn't.' The family had been visiting from Perth and there was nothing to suggest the boys had been doing anything risky, Supt Bowman said. Police will prepare a report for the coroner. Foreign minister Penny Wong said his expulsion is 'under consideration' Russia's ambassador to Australia says the world 'should be worried' about the use of nuclear weapons by his country in Ukraine. Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced on Sunday that Australia is backing Ukraine's claims of genocide against Russia in the International Court of Justice. The government has also placed sanctions and travel bans on an additional 28 senior Russian officials and separatists following 'sham' referendums held in four Ukrainian regions. Russia's ambassador to Australia Alexey Pavlovsky (pictured) says the world should be afraid after Moscow threatened to use nuclear weapons on Ukraine Senator Wong said the expulsion of Russian ambassador Alexey Pavlovsky was 'under consideration' after Vladimir Putin threatened to use nuclear weapons. Dr Pavlovsky told the Nine Newspapers any diplomatic expulsions would be met with reciprocal action by Moscow. Asked about the potential use of nuclear weapons in the Ukraine war, Dr Pavlovsky replied: 'Our military doctrine sets the conditions and situations when nuclear weapons can be used by the Russian Federation.' Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko said the number of Russian diplomats accredited in Australia should match the number of Australians in Moscow. 'It is called reciprocity,' he wrote on Twitter. 'How many RU diplomats work in AU ? European nations have expelled over 500 Russian diplomats.' Foreign minister Penny Wong (pictured) announced on Sunday that Australia would back Ukraine's claims of genocide against Russia and that the government was considering expelling Dr Pavlovsky from the country ANU International Security Professor John Blaxland said while Ukraine is receiving support from the West, Russian was recruiting another 300,000 troops for the battlefield (pictured, Russian soldiers in Ukraine) Mr Myroshnychenko also re-posted a video showing a donated Australian Bushmaster towing a captured Russian armoured personnel carrier. 'Good morning fellas! Isn't it beautiful?,' he tweeted. ANU International Security Professor John Blaxland has warned the upcoming northern hemisphere winter will be 'ugly'. 'We are looking down the barrel of an extended conflict,' he told Nine. 'Neither side looks likely to back down. Ukraine is getting continued support from the West ... and in the meantime, the Russians are recruiting 300,000 or more soldiers that will trickle in the coming months.' Advertisement King Charles III today paid a moving tribute to his late mother on his first public engagement with his wife since the Queen's death. His Majesty and the Queen Consort Camilla formally conferred city status on Dunfermline as part of Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee celebrations - and the monarch said the event would 'gladden my dear mother's heart, as it certainly gladdens mine'. Charles and Camilla were welcomed to Fife by community groups including a local pipe band and schoolchildren - with the King and his wife stopping to speak to crowds and shake their hands. One of those who waited to meet Charles was 91-year-old Catherine Gillian-Adams, who said she was 'thrilled to bits' her home town was now a city. Thousands gathered in Dunfermline to see the royal couple and other VIPs including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon - who was greeted by cheers and boos. But there was clapping and cries of 'God Save the King' when Charles, wearing a blue tartan kilt, arrived. His Majesty and his wife attended an official council meeting at the City Chambers where the King formally marked the conferral of city status on Dunfermline and made a short speech. It is their first joint public engagements since royal mourning ended last Tuesday. In the ceremony the King said he was 'delighted' when it was announced the town would become a city. He said he hoped people would feel a 'real sense of pride in this new chapter'. He said: 'That would, I know, gladden my dear mother's heart, as it certainly gladdens mine. As you celebrate your well-deserved status as Scotland's new City, I can only offer my warmest congratulations, and my heartfelt wishes for the years to come'. He added: 'I was delighted when, in May this year, it was announced that Dunfermline was one of the eight communities being granted City Status to mark The late Queen's Platinum Jubilee. There could be no more fitting way to mark my beloved mother's extraordinary life of service than by granting this honour to a place made famous by its own long and distinguished history, and by the indispensable role it has played in the life of our country. 'Now, of course, we gather to celebrate this great occasion but also to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty, whose deep love for Scotland was one of the foundations of her life'. After the ceremony they visited Dunfermline Abbey to mark its 950th anniversary, and will meet with representatives from Historic Scotland to learn about the history of the local area and conservation of the site. The Abbey is the burial place of Robert The Bruce and more of Scotland's royalty. King Charles III arrives at an official council meeting at the City Chambers in Dunfermline, Fife, to formally mark the conferral of city status on the former town King Charles III greets members of the public, who cheered his arrival and said 'God Save the King' King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla wave at an official ceremony to mark Dunfermline as a city Charles used his speech to declare: 'We gather to celebrate this great occasion but also to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty, whose deep love for Scotland was one of the foundations of her life' The letters patent confirming Dunfermline formally awarded city status First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is greeted by Lord Provost of Dunfermline Jim Leishman as she arrives at the City Chambers in Dunfermline. There were cheers and boos King Charles III and Britain's Camilla, Queen Consort are shown the grave stone of Robert the Bruce The royal couple leave Dunfermline Abbey, after a visit to mark its 950th anniversary, School children wait for the arrival of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla Children are lifted on to the shoulders of their parents as they watch the festivities in Dunfermline Downing Street denies Liz Truss told King Charles to skip Cop27 in Egypt No 10 today said it was 'ridiculous' to claim Liz Truss told the King to avoid the COP27 event in Egypt next month. The PM's spokesman denied she had ordered the monarch to stay away. He said: 'We have a proud record when it comes to Cop, we are forging ahead with our plans for net zero'. The monarch, who has previously called for a 'vast, military-style campaign' to fight climate change, had reportedly planned to make a speech at the meeting of world leaders in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt in November. But the Prime Minister, who also won't be attending, objected to his plans during an audience at Buckingham Palace last month. It comes amid growing suspicion that the government is planning to water down or even abandon its target of 'net zero' carbon emissions by 2050. The Palace said advice had been sought by the King and given by Miss Truss. Advertisement After the royal couple left Dunfermline city chambers, they were again shaking hands with well-wishers gathered outside as they left and went to Dunfermline Abbey, where the royal couple saw the resting place of Robert the Bruce. Bill Henderson, 71, who was was amongst the crowds who waited to greet the King and Queen Consort, told how locals were excited the town was now becoming a city Speaking about it, he said: 'It's a historic event. 'I was born just before the Queen was came to the throne, so she's been my monarch my whole life. It's just exciting. 'And especially a King Charles coming back to Dunfermline when King Charles I was born here, however long ago that was.' Teacher Carol Williams, 52, commented: 'It's such an honour for Dunfermline to be his first visit as the new King.' Eight places have won city status as part of the late monarch's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Dunfermline's bid for the status was based on its heritage and its historic status as an ancient seat of royal power, but also one of the fastest-growing towns in Europe. The King and his wife will also host a reception at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh on Monday to celebrate British South Asian communities. They will meet with between 200 and 300 guests of British Indian, Pakistani, Bangladesh, Sri Lankan, Nepalese, Bhutanese and Maldivian heritage from across the UK. The event will recognise the contribution many from these communities have made to the National Health Service, arts, media, education, business and the Armed Forces. Charles will also hold an investiture ceremony for a small group of local people, his first as King. The couples visit started at the City Chambers where the waiting crowd was so deep and stretched so far that it was impossible to count them. Charles, wearing the Old Stewart Tartan, and Camilla in a favourite tartan outfit by Mr Roy, were greeted by deafening cheers as they shook hands with an official line up, which included Ms Sturgeon, and a local pipe band. Accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Fife, Robert Balfour, the party proceed into the Chamber Room where The King formally marked the conferral of City status on Dunfermline Councillor Jim Leishman, the Provost of Fife, said it was a privilege that the King had chosen to take part in the ceremony so early on in his reign. Ms Sturgeon highlighted the fact that the silks that Her Late Majesty used both in her wedding and coronation gowns had been made in the old silk mill in Dunfermline. She added: It is a great honour indeed that at the start of a new era Your Majesties are here to mark this further milestone for this very special community. Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack MP, said before the ceremony: It is a huge honour for Dunfermline to be bestowed city status and will be a huge boost to the city and its people. And its a huge honour that the King and Queen have made this their first official visit together after royal mourning. The decision was taken by the late Queen personally to choose Dunfermline. Between then and now, the King has really rode into action and honoured the date. The crowds are lining a long way back, theres huge enthusiasm and lots of Union flags. King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla, hold their first joint public engagement since royal mourning ended Camilla, Queen Consort arrives at Dunfermline Abbey, with a posy of flowers Britain's King Charles III and Britain's Camilla, Queen Consort greet members of the public The King and Queen Consort formally mark the conferral of city status on the former town Eight places have become cities as part of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The former towns each made a bid for city status as part of the Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours Competition and were asked to highlight their royal associations, as well as showcase their communities and local identity. Dunfermlines bid for city status was based on its heritage and its historic status as an ancient seat of royal power but it is also one of the fastest growing towns in Europe. Before they left the couple signed a visitors book where the King appeared to make a light-hearted reference to his recent viral tussles with pens on official engagements. Handing the writing implement to his wife he laughingly seemed to say: These things are so temperamental. The King has twice been caught on camera struggling with his pen when signing official documents in recent weeks. Outside the couple headed immediately towards the cheering crowds, where among the first people they met was George Findlay, 79, from Perth. He said: His mother was my boss for several years when I was in the Royal Navy. Hes a good man and I think he will made a good king. Im just so chuffed he has taken so much time to meet everyone. Lesley McAuliffe, 60, from Dunfermline, showed Camilla her Union Flag-lined jacket. She is a wonderful Queen Consort, she said. Marian and Charlie McLaughlen also spoke to the king, Mrs McLaughlen said: I think he will embody all the best qualities of the Queen and bring something of his own to the role. Such a pleasure to meet them. The couple made the short walk down to Dunfermline Abbey, to mark its 950th anniversary. The Queen visited when it celebrated its 900th. Their Majesties met with representatives from Historic Scotland to learn about the history of the local area and conservation of the site. Dunfermline was established as the new seat of power in 1057 by King Malcolm III after he killed Macbeth. He married Margaret of Wessex who brought the Benedictine monks to Scotland and was later canonised as a saint. Dunfermline Abbey is the ancient the burial site of Kings and Queens of Scotland, including King Robert the Bruce. The couple made a point to visiting his grave and talking about the history of the abbey before meeting local community organisations and supporters. Outside they spoke to more of the crowds, including Catherine Gellan-Adamss 91, whose stylish hat was admired by the Queen Consort. We are all here because we are royalists but quite apart from that I think he is a sensible guy and his wife is a sensible lady too, she said. I think she will keep him on the straight and narrow and I told her that. And she laughed and said yes she would. Elspeth Duncan, 75, from Dunfermline said she was overjoyed at meeting the new King and Queen Consort. Remarking on the booing of Nicola Sturgeon she said: That doesnt surprise me. She thinks she is Queen of Scotland and doesn't realise how many people dislike her. We are very happy with the Royal Family we have and with the union, thank you. It came amid claims that King Charles III will not attend the Cop27 climate summit after being told to stay away by Liz Truss. The monarch was reportedly planning to make a speech at the meeting of world leaders in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, in November. But the Prime Minister, who will also not attend, objected to his plans during an audience at Buckingham Palace last month. It comes amid growing suspicion that the Government is planning to water down or even abandon its target of 'net zero' carbon emissions by 2050. The Palace said advice had been sought by the King and was given by Miss Truss. 'With mutual friendship and respect there was agreement that the King would not attend,' the Palace said. But the decision is likely to have disappointed the King, who as Prince of Wales had a long history of campaigning to reduce the effects of climate change. As heir to the throne he also had a reputation for interfering in government business, most recently expressing his distaste for the Government's plan to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda. After the death of his mother, friends insisted he will not cool on the issue of global warming. the King was greeted by pipes on St Catherine's Wynd as the monarch arrived to confer city status on Dunfermline Dunfermline Abbey ahead of the arrival on King Charles III But as monarch he is obliged to remain politically neutral, and in his address to the nation after the Queen's death, he acknowledged that 'it will no longer be possible to give so much time to the... issues for which I care so deeply'. Before his ascension to the throne last month, King Charles had indicated he would attend the 27th UN Climate Change Conference, known as Cop27, which will run from November 6 to 18. A source told the Daily Mail there had never been any firm plans for the King to go, though he has attended previously, leading to speculation he would again this year. As all foreign visits are undertaken at the request of the British Government, advice was sought by the Palace. The 'unanimous' decision, it has been suggested, is that with so many demands for the King to be deployed abroad, Cop27 would not be the 'right occasion' for his first overseas visit as sovereign. Sources highlighted his address to the nation following his mother's death, in which he stressed that he remains 'ever mindful' of his constitutional role in light of his change of circumstances. As previously highlighted by the Mail, it is understood that the environment will remain central to his work as sovereign. In 2015, he delivered the opening address at Cop21 in Paris, describing climate change as the greatest threat facing humanity. In a hard-hitting speech the King echoed Winston Churchill by calling on 'the few' to take action to save the planet, urging world leaders to commit 'trillions, not billions, of dollars'. He also delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of Cop26 in Glasgow last year, calling on world leaders to adopt a 'warlike footing' to deal with climate change. Although he will not attend Cop27 in person, it is understood he is still determined to make his presence felt, leaving the door open for a virtual appearance. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood said in a tweet that he hoped the King would be allowed to go to Egypt, adding that he was a 'globally respected voice' on the environment whose attendance would add 'serious authority' to the British delegation. While Boris Johnson became an enthusiastic advocate for net zero, Miss Truss is thought to be more sceptical of the green agenda. A government source said: 'The Palace and the Government considered separately, and then agreed jointly, that... he is not going to be attending Cop.' Nicola Sturgeon's mixed reception: Scotland's First Minister is booed and cheered by crowd as she arrives in Dunfermline for city-making ceremony while King Charles is greeted by fans waving Union flags Nicola Sturgeon today received a mixed reception as she arrived for a historic city-making ceremony in Dunfermline. The Scottish First Minister was loudly booed by parts of the crowd - and cheered by others - as she smiled and waved to fellow Scots outside Dunfermline City Chambers this morning. Royal fans had gathered outside the 140-year-old council building to catch a glimpse of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla - who are also attending the event. Dunfermline, which is just across the Forth estuary from the Scottish capital Edinburgh, was granted city status earlier this year as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. But the Monarch died last month, at the age of 96, before the ceremony to formally mark the honour could take place. Today, Charles, who ascended the throne last month following the death of his mother, will be among those attending the city-making ceremony. Nicola Sturgeon today received a frosty reception as she arrived ahead of King Charles for a historic city-making ceremony in Dunfermline. Pictured: First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is greeted by Lord Provost of Dunfermline Jim Leishman as she arrives at the City Chambers in Dunfermline, Fife Ahead of the event, First Minister Sturgeon arrived at Dunfermline City Chambers, where she was met by Lord Provost of Dunfermline Jim Leishman. But as she turned to wave to the largely royalist crowds, the Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP) leader was met with a mixed reception. Among a smattering of cheers and claps were loud boos and whistles. The moment was captured on camera by ITV's royal editor Chris Ship. Posting the video on Twitter, he wrote: 'If you needed a reminder of how decisive Scottish politics can be, Nicola Sturgeon was mostly booed (plus some cheers) by the crowd waiting for King Charles and Camilla to arrive. 'This is a crowd waiting for a monarch to turn up but took me by surprise'. In sharp contrast, King Charles was later seen greeting crowds, some of whom were waving the Union flag. Putin crony Ramzan Kadyrov meanwhile called for use of 'low-yield' nuclear weapons in Ukraine Comes as NATO warned Russian nuclear sub has left its base in the Arctic Circle Military analysts claimed this could be a sign of escalation in Ukraine conflict on behalf of Moscow, or preparation for large-scale nuclear readiness tests Specialist division is dedicated to storage, maintenance and provision of nukes The military hardware belongs to the 12th Main Directorate of the Russian MoD A huge freight train moving specialist military equipment associated with a nuclear-arms wielding division of Russia's Defence Ministry has been spotted on the move, prompting fears of an escalation in Putin's war. A series of BPM-97 armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and other military vehicles were seen travelling through central Russia in a clip posted on the Telegram messaging app by pro-Russian channel Rybar on Sunday. The APCs are thought to have been upgraded with more capable turrets, reinforced ambush and mine-proof armour and an air purification system designed to allow its occupants to operate effectively in the face of sustained infantry attacks. Such advanced military hardware, the likes of which have scarcely been deployed on the frontlines in Ukraine, reportedly belong to the 12th Main Directorate of the Russian MoD. This specialist division is dedicated to the storage, maintenance and provision of weapons to the likes of the Strategic Rocket Forces, a Russian military branch that controls nuclear missiles and forms a key part of Putin's nuclear programme. Military analyst Konrad Musyka claimed the deployment of such units could signal a coming escalation in the conflict from the warmongering Russian president or constitute a precursor to large scale nuclear drills. It comes as NATO warned member states that Russia's state-of-the-art Belgorod nuclear submarine has left its White Sea base, while key Putin ally Ramzan Kadyrov said Russia's military should use 'low-yield nuclear weapons' to turn the tide of the war in Ukraine. A series of mine-proof personnel carriers, heavily armoured military vehicles and transportation trucks were seen travelling through central Russia in a clip posted on the Telegram messaging app by pro-Russian channel Rybar Military analyst Konrad Musyka claimed the deployment of such units could signal a coming escalation in the conflict from the warmongering Russian president or constitute a precursor to large scale nuclear drills (Russian ICBM test launch pictured) Defence analysts posited that the movement of such military hardware could signify preparations for Russia's 'Grom' nuclear readiness exercise programme (missile launch from Grom 2019 pictured) Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during the signing ceremony with separatist leaders on the annexation of four Ukrainian regions at the Grand Kremlin Palace, on September 30, 2022 in Moscow, Russia Muzyka said the movement of heavy military hardware belonging to nuke-wielding units does not necessarily mean that Russia is preparing to deploy a nuclear weapon in Ukraine. But he did suggest it could be a 'signal to the West that Moscow is escalating' the conflict, adding that Russia's Strategic Rocket Forces (RVSN) are known to undergo extensive training drills in autumn. The RVSN is a branch of Russia's armed forces that constitutes a cornerstone of the nation's nuclear defence and deterrence programme, which is the largest and most advanced in the world. It is made up of dozens of missile regiments who together control thousands of nuclear capable weapons, intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and are responsible for the maintenance and protection of their launch centres. 'We're in a situation in which superiority in resources and conventional weaponry is on the side of the West,' said Vasily Kashin, a military and political analyst at the Higher School of Economics in Moscow. 'But Russia's power is based on its nuclear arsenal.' Muzyka also posited that the movement of such hardware could signify preparations for Russia's infamous 'Grom' (Thunder) nuclear deterrence exercise. Last conducted in October 2019, the Grom military drills see divisions from the trifecta of Russia's land, air and sea-based nuclear arsenals come together to test their operational response in the event of a nuclear conflict. The drills saw tens of thousands of troops take part in nuclear readiness tests alongside more than 200 ICBM launch stations, hundreds of military aircraft, and several nuclear warships and submarines, according to The Diplomat. Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu last year announced that the Grom exercises would be held again in 2022, though it is unclear whether the conflict in Ukraine will bring to bear any changes to the programme. The Belgorod - a 600ft Russian nuclear submarine capable of carrying the Poseidon doomsday weapon - has left its base in the White Sea, a NATO warning note has said Poseidon is an underwater drone that Russia claims is capable of triggering 1,600ft nuclear tsunamis designed to drown and irradiate coastal cities NATO has warned its allies that Belgorod may be travelling to the Kara Sea to carry out a test of the Poseidon nuclear device Chechen warlord and Putin crony Ramzan Kadyrov (left, pictured with Putin) said Russia must consider using 'low-yield nuclear weapons' to reverse its forces' fortunes in Ukraine Concerns over the movement of the 12th Main Directorate's military hardware comes as NATO warned a key Russian nuclear submarine has left its base in the White Sea in northern Russia. The warning note claimed the K-329 Belgorod submarine, which only entered active service with Russia's navy in July 2022, may be headed to the Kara Sea to test the feared Poseidon underwater nuclear drone. Poseidon is said to be capable of travelling huge distances underwater before detonating with enough force to trigger a nuclear tsunami designed to drown and irradiate coastal cities. The Kara sea is located off the eastern coast of Novaya Zemlya - a large Russian controlled island in the Arctic circle which has long been used as a nuclear weapons testing facility. It was the site of the largest nuclear explosion ever recorded in 1961 when the USSR detonated the Tsar Bomba - a nuclear device ten times more powerful than all of the ordnance exploded in World War II which was downgraded because its original design was thought too dangerous to test. Meanwhile, Chechen warlord and Putin ally Ramzan Kadyrov wrote on Telegram this weekend that Russia should declare martial law in border towns close to Ukraine and deploy low-yield nuclear weapons to reverse recent military failures. 'I do not know what the Defence Ministry reports to the Supreme Commander-in-Chief [Putin], but in my personal opinion, we need to take more drastic measures,' he said. Kadyrov complained that Putin's commanders had failed to rout Ukraine's supposed 'Satanists and fascists', and made no bones about his desire for nuclear weapons to be detonated on Ukrainian soil. Advertisement A man swam half a mile through flooded streets in Florida last week to save his wheelchair-bound mother trapped in her home as it filled with water. As Hurricane Ian made landfall on Wednesday, Johnny Lauder, 49, heroically dove into the bacteria-ridden water surging through Naples after receiving a panicked call from 84-year-old Karen, who lives a few blocks away. Karen, whose legs are both amputated, told him the water was rushing into her home and had become level with her chest. Initial forecasts had predicted the Category 4 storm would hit Tampa Bay. But on Tuesday afternoon, its path changed south. By the following day, it had turned into one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the United States in decades. It has since carved a path of destruction from Florida to the Carolinas. The death toll climbed past 80 on Sunday and the embattled residents in the two states face a recovery expected to cost tens of billions of dollars. By late Sunday, around 700,000 homes and businesses in Florida were still without electricity - down from a peak of 2.6 million. But despite the danger, Lauder - who lives in East Naples with his family - told local news outlet NBC-2 that his mother Karen did not want to evacuate her home because of the hurricane. As a result, the whole family decided to stay. Pictured: Johnny Lauder's 84-year-old mother Karen is seen in floodwaters inside her home in Naples, Florida last week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on Wednesday Lauder takes a selfie with his mother while both are inside her flooded home after Hurricane Ian Lauder (pictured) swam half-a-mile through floodwaters to his mother's home to save her from the floods. His mother, Karen, is wheelchair bound Lauder's mom is seen resting on top of a surface inside her flooded Naples house after the destruction of Hurricane Ian Several cars are seen nearly submerged in floodwater outside the home of Karen Lauder's home in Naples Karen is seen wrapped in a blanket while she is wheeled in floodwaters following Hurricane Ian's devastation As the waters rose, Lauder told the broadcaster that he put three of his children inside their home's attic crawl space along with their three pets, and then escaped from a window on a mission to save his mother. 'The water started getting even higher, and at that point, I knew things were going to be bad,' he told NBC-2. 'At that time, I dove out that window because my mom called and said it was up to her chest.' He swam through the five-foot storm surge to his mother's house, found about half-a-mile away from his family home. 'It was a very rough swim, if you call it that, and I knew the water was coming up faster and faster,' Lauder said. 'Who wouldn't go for their mom?' Speaking to the Washington Post, Lauder said if he had waited any longer, 'she wouldn't be here'. He added: 'And that's my mom. I would've done it for anybody's mom or anyone else in that situation. You know, that's what you're supposed to do. 'She's a very stubborn 84-year-old woman,' Lauder told The Post. 'And she said, "You're not taking me anywhere. I won't have any privacy. I'm staying home."' Karen told NBC-2 that she underestimated the storm. 'I could have gone to a shelter, but I didn't think it'd be that bad.' Lauder took several photographs during his mission to save his mother, showing the devastation wrought by the storm on Naples. Cars were swept away, power lines were crooked, and items from surrounding households were washed up. When he arrived to his mother's house, he took a picture of her submerged in the water inside her home, which he described as 'like an aquarium'. Despite her desperate situation, Karen is shown beaming upon seeing her son. 'She was the happiest she's ever been to see me,' Lauder told The Post. His relatives have since set up a GoFundMe page to help raise money towards repairs. By Monday morning, the page had raised almost $4,000. Pictured: Lauder is seen with his mother inside her home last week during his rescue mission Lauder is pictured outside his mother's home in Naples, Florida standing nearly waist deep in flood water Flood water several feet high outside Lauder's mother's home in Naples can be seen from the interior of the house Pictured: A picture shared by Lauder of his Naples neighborhood during his rescue mission As of Monday, Hurricane Ian is still not done. The storm doused Virginia with rain Sunday, and officials warned of the potential for severe flooding along its coast, beginning overnight Monday. Ian's remnants moved offshore and formed a nor'easter that is expected to pile even more water into an already inundated Chesapeake Bay and threatened to cause the most significant tidal flooding event in Virginia's Hampton Roads region in the last 10 to 15 years, said Cody Poche, a National Weather Service meteorologist. The island town of Chincoteague declared a state of emergency Sunday and strongly recommended that residents in certain areas evacuate. The Eastern Shore and northern portion of North Carolina's Outer Banks were also likely to be impacted. With the death toll rising, Deanne Criswell, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said the federal government was ready to help in a huge way, focusing first on victims in Florida, which took the brunt of one of the strongest storms to make landfall in the United States. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden plan to visit the state on Wednesday. Pictured: Flooded streets are seen in Naples during Hurricane Ian on September 29 A handout satellite image made available by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shows Hurricane Ian's eye as the storm approached southwest Florida, USA, 28 September 2022 Flooded roadways and washed-out bridges to barrier islands left many people isolated amid limited cellphone service and a lack of basic amenities such as water, electricity and the internet. Officials warned that the situation in many areas isn't expected to improve for several days because the rain that fell has nowhere to go because waterways are overflowing. Criswell told 'Fox News Sunday' that the federal government, including the Coast Guard and Department of Defense, had moved into position 'the largest amount of search and rescue assets that I think we've ever put in place before.' Still, recovery will take time, said Criswell, who visited the state Friday and Saturday to assess the damage and talk to survivors. She cautioned that dangers remain with downed power lines in standing water. At least 85 storm-related deaths have been confirmed since Ian crashed ashore Florida's Gulf Coast with catastrophic force on Wednesday as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 miles per hour. Florida accounted for all but four of the fatalities, with 42 tallied by the sheriff's office in coastal Lee County, which bore the brunt of the storm when it made landfall, and 39 other deaths reported by officials in four neighboring counties. Officials in Lee County, which includes Fort Myers and Cape Coral and is on the Gulf Coast, have faced questions over whether they mandated evacuations in time. Cecil Pendergrass, chairman of the county's board of commissioners, said on Sunday that once the county was forecast to be in the cone, or the probable track of the hurricane's center, evacuation orders were given. Even then, some people chose to ride the storm out, Pendergrass said. 'I respect their choices,' he said at a press conference. 'But I'm sure a lot of them regret it now.' More than 1,600 people have been rescued statewide, according to Florida's emergency management agency. Rescue missions were ongoing, especially to Florida's barrier islands, which were cut off from the mainland when storm surges destroyed causeways and bridges. The state will build a temporary traffic passageway for the largest one, Pine Island, DeSantis said Sunday, adding that an allocation had been approved for Deportment of Transportation to build it this week and construction could start as soon as Monday. A sign reading, 'Loot and I Shoot', sits ourtside a storm-damaged home in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 2, 2022 in Naples, Florida Jane Cihon sorts through family photos damaged by storm surge from Hurricane Ian on October 2, 2022 in Naples, Florida Ambulances line up on the shoulder after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022 in Naples Electrical workers stage in a lot in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, 'It's not going to be a full bridge, you're going to have to go over it probably at 5 miles an hour or something, but it'll at least let people get in and off the island with their vehicles,' the governor said at a news conference. Coast Guard, municipal and private crews have been using helicopters, boats and even jetskis to evacuate people over the past several days. In rural Seminole County, north of Orlando, residents donned waders, boots and bug spray to paddle to their flooded homes Sunday. Ben Bertat found 4 inches of water in his house by Lake Harney after kayaking there. 'I think it's going to get worse because all of this water has to get to the lake' said Bertat, pointing to the water flooding a nearby road. 'With ground saturation, all this swamp is full and it just can't take any more water. It doesn't look like it's getting any lower.' As the full scope of devastation became clearer, officials said some of the heaviest damage was inflicted by wind-driven ocean surf that raged into seaside communities and washed buildings away. Satellite images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) showed beach cottages and a motel that lined the shores of Florida's Sanibel Island had been demolished by storm surges. Although most homes appeared to still be standing, roof damage to all was evident. A U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Air Station Clearwater MH-60 Jayhawk aircrew conducts a damage assessment of the Sanibel Causeway in Fort Meyers, Florida, on October 1, 2022 A boat in Port Sanibel in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 1, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida Surveys from the ground showed that the barrier island, a popular tourist getaway that was home to some 6,000, was devastated. 'It's all just completely gone,' Sanibel's city manager, Dana Souza, said. 'Our electric system is pretty much destroyed, our sewer system has been damaged badly and our public water supply is under assessment.' The island's link to the mainland was severed by breaches to its causeway bridge, further complicating recovery efforts, Souza said. After waning to a tropical storm by the end of its march across Florida to the Atlantic, Ian regained hurricane strength and pummeled coastal South Carolina on Friday, sweeping ashore near Georgetown, north of the historic port city of Charleston. Numerous roads were flooded and blocked by fallen trees while a number of piers were damaged in that area. More than 700,000 businesses and homes remained without power on Sunday afternoon in Florida alone, where more than 2 million customers lost electricity the first night of the storm. Insurers braced for between $28 billion and $47 billion in claims from what could amount to the costliest Florida storm since Hurricane Andrew in 1992, according to U.S. property data and analytics company CoreLogic. A displaced boat in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 1, 2022 on Sanibel Island, Florida Storm damaged boats are strewn about in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 1, 2022 on Sanibel Island, Florida Elsewhere, power remained knocked out to at least half of South Carolina's Pawleys Island, a beach community roughly 75 miles up the coast from Charleston. In North Carolina, the storm downed trees and power lines. And on Monday, Biden will survey damage from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico, where tens of thousands of people are still without power two weeks after the storm hit. The Category 1 hurricane knocked out electrical power to the U.S. territory of 3.2 million people, 44% of whom live below the poverty line. Power has been restored to about 90% of the island's 1.47 million customers, but more than 137,000 others, mostly in the hardest hit areas of Puerto Rico's southern and western regions, continue to struggle in the dark. Another 66,000 customers are without water. Biden has pledged that the U.S. government will not abandon Puerto Rico as it starts to rebuild again, five years after the more powerful Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017. During his visit, Biden planned to announce the administration will provide $60 million through last year's bipartisan infrastructure law to help Puerto Rico shore up levees, strengthen flood walls and create a new flood warning system so the island will be better prepared for future storms, the White House said. 'We see what you're going through, and we're with you,' Biden told Puerto Ricans and Floridians in a message Sunday on his official Twitter account. The president, accompanied by first lady Jill Biden and Deanne Criswell, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator, was to touch down Monday in Ponce, Puerto Rico, a city on the southern coast. Most of the storm damage is in southern Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi said he would update Biden on recovery efforts. A house lies in the mud after it was washed away by Hurricane Fiona at Villa Esperanza in Salinas, Puerto Rico, Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022 A flooded street is seen after the passage of hurricane Fiona in Salinas, Puerto Rico, on September 19, 2022 An overturned storage unit following Hurricane Fiona in Salinas, Puerto Rico, on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022 'We will make sure to keep working together to ensure the continuity of a reconstruction already underway,' the governor tweeted on Sunday. Fiona caused catastrophic flooding, tore apart roads and bridges, and unleashed more than 100 landslides when it hit Puerto Rico on Sept. 18. At least two people died after being swept away by floods, and several others were killed in accidents related to the use of candles or generator during the island-wide power outage. Government officials have estimated some $3 billion in damages, but warn that costs could rise significantly as evaluations continue. Some people in Puerto Rico wondered whether Biden's visit would change anything as they recalled how President Donald Trump visited after Hurricane Maria hit as a more powerful Category 4 storm in 2017, and tossed rolls of paper towels into a crowd in a display that riled many. Manuel Veguilla, a 63-year-old retired mechanic who lives in a remote community in the hard-hit northern mountain town of Caguas, said he didn't expect his life to improve in the aftermath of Fiona, which cut off his neighborhood from any help for a week. 'They always offer the lollipop to the kids,' he said, referring to Biden's visit. 'But in the end, the outcome is always the same. The aid goes to those who have the most.' Criswell, who discussed the aftermath of Fiona and Ian on four Sunday TV news programs, echoed Biden's promise to Fiona's victims. 'We have not left Puerto Rico,' she said on CBS' 'Face the Nation.' Criswell said on ABC's 'This Week' that FEMA personnel were sent to the island before the storm hit and that 'they're going to stay with the people of Puerto Rico' through the recovery efforts. Biden recently told Pierluisi that he authorized 100% federal funding for a month for debris removal, search and rescue efforts, power and water restoration, shelter and food. The lack of electrical power on the island led to the temporary closure of businesses, including gas stations and grocery stores, as fuel supplies dwindled amid heavy generator use. As a result, many cheered the Biden administration's decision to temporarily waive a federal law so that a British Petroleum ship could deliver 300,000 barrels of diesel. Many also have begun demanding that Puerto Rico be fully exempted from the law, known as the Jones Act, that requires that all goods transported to Puerto Rico be aboard a ship built in the U.S., owned and crewed by U.S. citizens and flying the U.S. flag. This drives up costs for an island that already imports 85% of its food. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., also said Puerto Ricans would not be forgotten. Rubio said the island appeared to be 'in better position to respond this time around' due to the prepositioning of personnel and supplies before the storm hit and because part of Puerto Rico's electrical grid had been rebuilt after Hurricane Maria. 'We will do everything we can, we always have, to support Puerto Rico now in the recovery after this, yet another devastating storm,' Rubio said on CNN's 'State of the Union.' A veteran Ukrainian Top Gun who used the call sign 'Grandfather' and led the infamous Ghosts of Kyiv pilot division has died in combat. Colonel Mykhailo Matyushenko was head of the Air Force's 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade, which guarded the skies over capital. According to Ukraine's Pravda news site, the 61-year-old led an infamous group of fighter pilots known collectively as the Ghosts of Kyiv. Earlier in the war, Ukrainian media referred to a single Ghost of Kyiv - a mythical lone Top Gun who had shot down as many as 40 Russian warplanes. But this was later revealed to be a hoax spread by Ukraine to boost morale, and Kyiv eventually declared that the real Ghosts were a group of pilots defending the country in the air. Matyushenko died in a mission over the Black Sea and a funeral is being held for him in his hometown of Bucha today, the town of horrors on the outskirts of Kyiv where Russia is accused of carrying out gruesome war crimes. The town's mayor Anatoly Fedoruk paid tribute to the airman, saying in a post on Facebook: 'Matyushenko passed on his invaluable experience to the younger generation of fighter pilots. 'And only now can we tell the true story: "The Ghosts of Kyiv" were led by a pilot from Bucha.' Colonel Mykhailo Matyushenko who used the call sign 'Grandfather' and led the infamous 'Ghost of Kyiv' pilot division has died in combat Earlier in the war, it was thought the Ghost related to one Ukrainian Top Gun (pictured) who had shot down as many as 40 Russian warplanes. But this was later revealed to be a hoax spread by Ukraine to boost morale, and Kyiv eventually revealed that the real Ghosts are the ones defending the country in the air Matyushenko served in a number of military units and also flew civilian aircraft, working as a manager at a Ukrainian airline before Putin launched his barbaric invasion and he returned to service. Fedoruk said that under Matyushenko's command, the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade never suffered any defeats in the air. His comrades recalled one incident in which 'Grandfather' rushed into an aerial battle in an Aero L-39 Albatross training jet. He was simulating an attack in a Ukrainian MiG-29 on a pair of Russian Su-30s whose pilots were fooled and retreated. After dominating the skies over the capital, he moved to strengthen Ukraine's control on the airspace above the southern and eastern front. Major Stepan Tarabalka (pictured left and right) was claimed to be the real 'Ghost of Kyiv' before the army confessed A search and rescue mission was carried out for the 61-year-old after his death in the Black Sea in June and his body was eventually recovered and returned home yesterday. A day after Putin's invasion, the story of the anonymous 'Ghost of Kyiv' was widely spread, becoming one of the symbols of Ukraine's bold defiance against Russia. The mythical pilot from the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade allegedly shot down 40 Kremlin warplanes to defend the capital. But the Ukrainian military eventually conceded the icon was just a hoax to help boost morale, after Air Force Major Stepan Tarabalka, 29, was wrongly identified as the pilot. The air force wrote at the time: 'The Ghost of Kyiv is a super-hero legend whose character was created by Ukrainians!' 'The information about the death of the The Ghost of Kyiv is incorrect. 'The Ghost Of Kyiv is alive, it embodies the collective spirit of the highly qualified pilots of the Tactical Aviation Brigade who are successfully defending Kyiv and the region.' Mr Tarabalka was a real pilot who died in battle on March 13. He was posthumously awarded the title Hero of Ukraine. Two days before his death, Ukraine's General Staff shared this photo of the legendary fighter sitting in the cockpit. They captioned it: 'Hello, occupier, I'm coming for your soul!' Memes, photos, and even footage from a flight simulator video game circulated on social media claimed to show the Ghost of Kyiv during combat. A day later, former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko tweeted a photo that Ukraine's Ministry of Defense had shared three years earlier, 'showing' the Ghost of Kyiv had taken down six Russian pilots. Two days later, Ukraine's official Twitter account shared a video including the same picture, along with footage of fighter jets in combat set to pulsating music with the caption: 'People call him the Ghost of Kyiv. 'And rightly so - this UAF ace dominates the skies over our capital and country, and has already become a nightmare for invading Russian aircrafts.' By the time news outlets falsely identified the pilot as Tarabalka, reports had increased the ghost's toll to 40 planes. Two days before his death, Ukraine's General Staff shared a photo of the legendary fighter sitting in the cockpit. They captioned it: 'Hello, occupier, I'm coming for your soul!' Tarabalka was born into a working class family in the village of Korolivka in the west of Ukraine. Advertisement An album featuring a collection of haunting criminal mugshots from the Victorian era and beyond is set to fetch thousands at auction after being rescued from a skip. The Peaky Blinders-style images were discovered inside a police ledger dating from between 1890 to 1920. The document mentions Alice Wheeldon, a woman convicted of plotting to kill the then British Prime Minister David Lloyd George more than a century ago. Overall, there are 500 pages and every one features a grainy mug shot and details of crimes ranging from theft, burglary, shoplifting and assault. Lesser offences include petty theft such as stealing a comb, bad language or even being an 'incorrigible rogue'. The fascinating document of 'serious importance' was rescued from a skip by a former police officer working in Derby over 40 years ago. His son is now selling the book via Hansons Auctioneers where it is expected to fetch between 2,000-3,000 on October 19. A police ledger dating from between 1890 to 1920 that features a collection of haunting criminal mugshots from the Victorian era and beyond is set to fetch thousands at auction after being rescued from a skip. Above: Alice Wheeldon, her daughter Winnie, and son-in-law Alfred Mason, who were all convicted in 1917 of conspiring to murder the then Prime Minister David Lloyd George. The mugshots are enhanced versions of those that appear in the original ledger files The crooks include many from Derby but also men and women from all over the country - including Southampton, Hull, Birmingham, Leicester and Nottinghamshire. David Lloyd George was Prime Minister from 1916 until 1922 The ledger's most notables pages relate to the Wheeldon family - who were charged and convicted with conspiracy to murder Lloyd George. Alice Wheeldon, her daughter Winnie and son-in-law Alfred Mason were all believed to have been wrongfully convicted of the plot in March 1917. Lloyd George was then just three months into a six-year stint as Prime Minister that came to an end in 1922. The seller, a 53-year-old engineer from Staffordshire who has lived in Derby for 47 years, said: 'The book was rescued by my father, a police officer at the time, when he was working for Derby Borough Police more than 40 years ago. 'The station was clearing out some garages and store rooms at an old police station on St Mary's Gate in Derby. My father rescued it from being thrown into the skip. 'He thought it was too interesting to end up in landfill. Unfortunately, my dad is no longer with us, so I can't ask him for more details. 'He passed it to me 30 years ago. It's been sitting in a cupboard ever since and rarely sees the light of day. 'I looked at it in more detail 10 years ago and noticed the Wheeldon family. 'In Derby Alice Weeldon is now viewed as a hero for her anti-war and suffragette stance and wrongful conviction. The crooks include many from Derby but also men and women from all over the country - including Southampton, Hull, Birmingham, Leicester and Nottinghamshire. Above: Thomas Donald of Birmingham arrested for theft and housebreaking William Watson of Derby who stole a bicycle and was also found guilty of 'larceny', which means theft. The ledger's seller said it was rescued by his police officer father, who prevented it being thrown in a skip during a clear out more than 40 years ago Martin Adams, of Nottingham, was arrested for a litany of offences, including the theft of a comb. The ledger is being sold by via Hansons Auctioneers where it is expected to fetch between 2,000-3,000 on October 19. 'She's been honoured with a Blue Plaque and a star in the city's Walk of Fame. 'After decades in a cupboard, I've decided it's time someone else had the opportunity to research this important historical record. 'As well as the Wheeldon family, there are nearly 500 other people with a story to tell.' Alice, who died in 1919, was a supporter of women's suffrage and an anti-war campaigner. In the black and white mug shots of the Wheeldons, she is described as 51 years old, pale with dark brown hair. A note dated February 27, 1917 states, 'Conspiracy to murder - 10 years'. Underneath in red ink a note dated December 30, 1917 states 'Discharged'. Added on February 21, 1919 is 'Died'. Weakened by her ordeal, Alice lost her life to influenza during the infamous Spanish Flu pandemic. It is believed she was targeted for her political beliefs and as recently as 2019 efforts were made to have all convictions quashed because 'the defendants' right to a fair trial was sacrificed in the name of political interests'. Some evidence may have been fabricated on behalf of a government keen to disgrace the anti-war movement. It was known the Wheeldons were sheltering young men on the run from conscription during the First World War. In December 1916 'Alex Gordon', an undercover agent, arrived at the Wheeldon home claiming to be a conscientious objector. Alice took him in. He told her work camps for conscientious objectors were guarded by dogs. A package containing two vials of curare and two of strychnine was sent to her. Annie Brown of Derby, who used the alias Black Diamond, was arrested and sentenced for using obscene language and stealing Alice Wheeldon was sentenced to ten years in prison in March 1917 for her alleged part in the plot to assassinate Lloyd George but was discharged later that year because she was suffering from ill health Winnie Mason was sentenced to five years in prison for her alleged role in a conspiracy to murder Lloyd George. She was released in 1919, after the war had ended Alfred George Mason, the husband of Winnifred, was sentenced to seven years in prison for his role in the murder plot The package was intercepted and it was claimed they were intended to kill guard dogs at a work camp. This claim formed the basis of the case against the family. After being convicted, Alice went on hunger strike and was released early due to ill-health later in 1917. Her daughter was also released in 1919, after the war had ended. Surviving relatives had led a campaign to have the case reopened but earlier this year a bid to officially clear their name failed. The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) said in June while their arguments had merit, the case was too old to justify the expense. Hanson's expert Jim Spencer added: 'I thought this book sounded really interesting when the vendor first contacted me. 'However, nothing prepared me for that first look inside when he brought it along to Hansons' Staffordshire saleroom, Bishton Hall. 'I was amazed how many individuals were featured in the book, and I was struck by the range of offences. 'I'm sure many people will say it reminds them of TV's Peaky Blinders, and I guess some criminals do have the appearance of a baddie in a Laurel and Hardy film, but most seem pitifully trapped by their circumstances. 'The overwhelming feeling for me is quite tragic, with petty thefts being committed by desperate people living in poverty. 'There is a sense of societal division between the majority of criminals dressed in cloth caps, stealing food and clothing, and the occasional gentleman wearing a bowler hat charged with embezzlement. 'Many of the women have previous convictions for prostitution, and many of the men have been charged for living on the earnings of prostitution. In some instances, a husband and wife have each been convicted for causing their children to beg. 'A few of the men are dressed in army uniforms, and many individuals are described as having naval tattoos. Identifying marks are described, and most have physical scars. I just get a sense of some very difficult lives in this book.* 'Some convictions seem shockingly petty, such as*'stealing a tin of pine apple', 'stealing a bag of soot', 'stealing growing apples', and some are bizarrely vague, like 'incorrigible rogue'. 'This makes it all-the-more surprising to stumble upon a conviction for conspiracy to murder a prime minister. 'Alice Wheeldon is a famous name, and it's quite surreal to see the original 'mug shots' of her and her family members. 'For me, this makes the book of serious importance. I'm grateful the vendor's father rescued this valuable primary resource for historians. 'Of course, it's hard to predict what the collectable, monetary value will be for something like this, but it feels important enough for me to guide at 2,000-3,000.' Islamic State brides and their children stranded in Syria will taken to a third country in the Middle East before being brought back to Australia, a former ADF special operations intelligence analyst has revealed. Cabinet's national security committee will meet on Tuesday to formally approve a rescue plan to repatriate more than a dozen families who recently underwent 'risk assessments' following a secret ASIO mission to the war-torn nation. Sixteen Australian women and 42 children have been held in al-Roj refugee camp in northeast Syria near the Iraqi border for three-and-a-half years following the fall of Islamic State in March 2019. The women left Australia to join their husbands fighting for the fundamentalist terrorist movement before their short-lived 'caliphate' collapsed three-and-a-half years ago. The federal government's controversial move to reverse the policy banning foreign fighters and those who fled to Syria and Iraq to assist them, has already been met with division in Australia. Hosts on The Project on Monday raised questions about how the families would be safely reintegrated back into Australia. Former ADF intelligence analyst Shane Healey gave an adamant answer when asked by co-host Carrie Bickmore whether Australia is obliged to bring them back 'even if there is a slight risk'. The federal government is looking to repatriate Sixteen Australian women and 42 children currently held in al-Roj detention camp in northeast Syria. Pictured are women and children at the camp The women fled Australia to join their husbands fighting for ISIS before the short-lived 'caliphate' collapsed in March 2019 (pictured, ISIS fighters) 'Yes, 100 per cent' Mr Healey replied. 'I don't see how we can bring refugees out of Sudan, out of Afghanistan and out of other countries that are war torn and leave Australian citizens sitting in such a terrible state.' He stressed women and children rescued from the detention camp won't be whisked to Australia straight away and will need further assessment before they can return home, a process that could take months. 'They're going to take them to a host nation somewhere in the Middle East and give them a holistic assessment- psychological, education, medical and that takes weeks and then slowly unpack whether it is trauma or any medical issues and then start building them up to integrate back in Australia,' Mr Healey explained. 'Most of the young kids probably don't even speak English or have had formal education so that would be one of the processes.' The Project's Waleed Aly said what he was describing sounded similar to other deradicalision programs, which have a 'sketchy' track record overseas. But Mr Healey was extremely confident families would be successfully reintegrated back into Australia without issues - despite some public outcry. Former ADF special operations intelligence analyst Shane Healey (right) was asked by The Project's Carrie Bickmore (left) whether whether Australia is obliged to bring them back 'even if there is a slight risk' 'I hate the term 'deradicalised' because I believe it is an extremist spectrum,' Mr Healey said. 'It's not about being radical or their religion, it is their acceptance or use of violence. 'Most of those courses or programs failed because they are trying to target the religious aspects. I worked for Youth Justice NSW where we were very successful in this, we targeted their willingness or acceptance to use violence in order to achieve their end state. 'So that's the key to this whole thing is when you do those assessments, that's what you're looking at. What violence did they see, what violence did they use and what are their views on the use of violence to achieve any cause?' The segment ended with Mr Healey taking a brutal swipe at the former Scott Morrison government and its hardline policy of refusing to allow Australian citizens in Syrian detention camps to return. He strongly refutes the previous government's reasoning that extracting families from Syrian camps was a bad idea and was based on intelligence advice. I think the previous government weren't telling the whole truth and I would say (former minister) Peter Dutton had some other agendas,' Mr Healey said. 'Look at Matt Tinkler, the head of Save our Children. He has been in and out of the camps several times. 'NGOs go in and out of the camp with no issue, there have been ABC and other journalists go documentaries inside the camps with no issues and we have dealt with these problems from Sudanese refugees in Australia already with no issues. 'So I just reject that straight out and I think they're wrong.' It comes as a father and grandfather of an Australian woman and three children in a Syrian detention camp says he's excited at the prospect of having them returned. Kamalle Dabboussy pictured with his daughter Mariam Dabboussy (right) and her daughters Aisha (left) and Fatema in al-Hawl camp in northeastern Syria. He vowed to cooperate with all levels of government to bring his family home A top secret spy mission to refugee camps in Syria has paved the way for stranded Islamic State brides and their children to return to Australia - reversing a years-long ban by the Australian government (ISIS fighters pictured) Mariam Dabboussy left her middle-class life working in childcare for the war-torn hell hole at just 22 with her 18-month old baby after she married Kaled Zahab in 2015. Ms Dabboussy and her three children are now being held at the al-Roj refugee camp and is set to be repatriated. Her father Kamalle Dabboussy, who still lives in Sydney, says he's not been officially notified of the mission but would cooperate with all levels of government to bring his family home. 'It's every parent's wish to ensure their children are safe,' he said. Muslim community leader Dr Jamal Rifi said he believed '100 per cent' that Australia would be safe with the women returning home. He told Sky News the nation's security agencies could also adequately monitor the women and children if there were security concerns. During the segment, The Project's Waleed Aly (left with co-host Carrie Bickmore) pointed out the 'sketchy' track record of other deradicalision programs overseas Save the Children Australia chief executive Mat Tinkler said the repatriation 'can't come soon enough'. 'Children have died in these camps,' he said. 'Australian children are poorly nourished, suffering from untreated shrapnel wounds and the situation is impacting their mental health.' But the opposition is demanding more details. Former home affairs minister Karen Andrews says she didn't give the green light when she was in government due to the risk to Australia officials and radicalisation concerns. Ms Andrews said advice to her stated the women posed a security risk after travelling willingly and being 'complicit, generally, in the role they were expected to play... to support ISIS and foreign fighters'. The previous Australian government had a hardline policy of refusing citizens re-entry - stripping many of their passports under tough anti-terror laws (pictured, al-Hol refugee camp Syria 2019) Ms Andrews said bringing them back 'posed an unnecessary risk and enormous cost'. 'I've seen nothing to alter my view,' the opposition home affairs spokesperson told the ABC. But federal frontbencher Tanya Plibersek disputed the account. 'Some of the women, the mothers, were taken there as little more than children themselves and married off to (Islamic State) fighters,' she told the Seven Network. 'Some of them were tricked, some of them were forced to go there.' A casting agent has made a last minute call for an actor to play Prince Harry in the next Netflix series of The Crown. The job ad, which expires on October 14, is searching for someone who has a strong physical resemblance to the Duke of Sussex - but no professional acting experience is necessary. An actor between the ages of 16-20 is being sought and applicants are being told to email a short video of themselves talking about something they love as part of the process. Shooting for series six of the popular drama will begin next month. The job description reads: 'Robert Sterne, Casting Director of the Netflix series THE CROWN, is searching for an exceptional young actor to play PRINCE HARRY in the next series'. The casting call for William and Harry said the roles in the drama are 'significant' indicating there may be storylines effecting the young Princes' lives in the late nineties and early noughties. It indicates the series will run until at least 2005, likely starting around 1998 - just a year after Princess Diana's death. In 1998, Prince Harry started school at the prestigious Eton College, Berkshire, where he was educated until he left in June 2003, aged 18, with two A-levels in Art and Geography. An advert calling for the next Prince Harry advert - could it be you? Applicants are asked to email by Friday October 14 Bosses are searching for someone to play Prince Harry aged 16-20 in the sixth series of the popular drama The Crown (Harry pictured in 2002, aged 17) After leaving school, he took a gap year and spent three months working on a cattle ranch in southern Queensland, Australia. He also spent two months in Lesotho, where the 19-year-old prince worked with charities to raise awareness of HIV/Aids and produced a documentary, 'The Forgotten Kingdom'. In May 2005, aged 20, Prince Harry entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to begin his 44-week training as an Officer Cadet. Less than a year later, he joined the Blues and Royals, and was commissioned as an Army officer, in April 2006, aged 21. Directors are looking for actors that have a strong resemblance to Harry and said no previous acting experience is required. Harry, aged 17, (left) pictured with brother William (right) at the Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002 Applicants for the role of Prince Harry (pictured in 2002, aged 17) are asked to provide a short video clip talking about something they love The job description reads: 'It is a significant role in this award-winning drama and we are looking for a strong physical resemblance. 'Shooting will commence November 2022 in the UK. 'No previous professional acting experience required. We are very experienced in providing a great deal of support for the young actors and their families through what they find is a uniquely rewarding creative process.' Earlier this month it was announced that The Crown have cast actress Meg Bellamy in the role of Kate Middleton for the upcoming series. The Netflix show initially put out a casting call in April to find a 'stunning actress' to portray the role of a young Kate and after a five month wait, they finally found their Duchess. Meg, who was head girl at St Crispins School where she studied drama, will star alongside Ed McVey, who has been cast as her onscreen husband Prince William. Ed and Meg will play the couple during the period in which their romance blossomed while studying at St Andrews University. The part of the future Queen Consort is Meg's first major acting role and comes just months after she left her comprehensive school in Wokingham. Taking to Instagram after the news was revealed, an excited Meg wrote: 'Pinch me please... So excited to announce that I will be playing Kate Middleton in Series 6 of Netflixs The Crown. It is such an honour to be joining the most incredible cast and crew, and I will strive to do Kate justice.' The Crown have cast actress Meg Bellamy (left) in the role of Kate Middleton (right in 2008) for series six of the drama Meg, who was head girl at St Crispins School where she studied drama, will star alongside Ed McVey (left), who has been cast as her onscreen husband Prince William (pictured right in 2008) Rufus Kampa (left) will also play the Prince (right in 1997) at a different stage in his life, depicting his teenage years showing how he and the royal family coped with the death of Princess Diana In addition to Ed, Rufus Kampa, 16, will also play the Prince at a different stage in his life, depicting his teenage years showing how he and the royal family coped with the death of Princess Diana. After his role was made public, Ed wrote on Instagram: 'Ahhhhh the big news is now out!!! Im absolutely buzzing to be given the opportunity to play Prince William in #TheCrown in Series 6!!! Along side the amazing @megkbellamy. Gunna be an amazing shoot cant wait to learn all I can! Full press release in bio.' Rufus made his professional acting debut in Sue Townsends The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole 13 & 3/4s: The Musical, while he's also acted in a handful of West End productions. The show previously issued a casting call looking for 'exceptional young actors' to play Prince William and Prince Harry. The time period will likely cover William attending University of St Andrew's in Scotland where he met Kate as well as Prince Charles' wedding to Camilla Parker-Bowles and the aftermath of the death of Princess Diana. The dates also cover the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebration as well as the royal family's reaction to wider world events including the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Other key events in the time period including Edward's marriage to Sophie Wessex in 1999 and the deaths of Princess Margaret and the Queen mother in 2002. More than 50 firefighters were sent to tackle a blaze at a historic building in Belfast in the early hours of this morning. Emergency services were alerted to the fire at Old Cathedral Building on Donegall Street in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter at 5.37am. The building hosts a number of small creative businesses. A Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) spokesperson said: 'Eight fire appliances from Belfast, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn, two aerial appliances, 52 firefighters and five officers are in attendance.' Businesses owners watched as their work 'literally go up in flames'. Firefighters attending the blaze at the Old Cathedral Building on Donegall Street. The road still remains closed More than 50 firefighters were sent to the fire on Donegall Street after an emergency call was made at 5.37am Firefighters use hoses to put out the fire at the Old Cathedral Building in Donegal. The site is home to a number of creative businesses Tina Calder, owner of Excalibur Press, which has offices in the building, said: 'I got a call this morning just before 6am. My brother is a security guard at the Ulster University and he said, 'Tina, your building is on fire'. 'Of course, I sprang up, got a taxi, came in and literally for about an hour and a half, just stood here crying watching the building go up in flames.' Ms Calder rang the landlord, agent and other tenants as she watched the building continue to burn. Firefighters are currently at the scene of a building on fire at the Cathedral Buildings in Belfast. There are currently 8 Fire Appliances, a Command Support Unit, two Aerial Appliances, 56 firefighters and 5 Officers in attendance. The incident is ongoing. pic.twitter.com/NQ6JJRSIJE Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (@NIFRSOFFICIAL) October 3, 2022 Tina Calder, who owns a business in the historic building, was alerted to the fire early this morning after her security guard brother spotted it while working She added: 'It was just heart breaking as I watched people's studios go. One man owns a violin making studio - it was gone. There are illustrators in there that have artwork. 'We can see that our offices are probably going to have significant water and smoke damage. All five of my staff are working from home today. 'We've had a wonderful outburst of support from the community here in Cathedral Quarter, asking what can they do to help, and it's just wonderful to see that community come together to support us.' Freelance illustrator Elly Makem, who has a studio space in the building, told the BBC she watched her work 'literally go up in flames'. She told the BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme: 'All of my work is in that building. 'I have physical pieces I haven't submitted to clients yet and I have a 3,000 laptop that I bought last year that had all of my work on it. 'Every single piece of equipment I've gathered over the last eight years is in that building. 'I put so much effort into trying to make it being freelance; it's just watching it literally go up in flames.' People have taken to social media to react to the blaze that happened in the early hours of this morning on Donegall Street, Belfast Declan Keeney, a professor at Ulster University, wrote on Twitter: 'Heartbroken for the many brilliant small businesses, organisations & artists based in Cathedral Buildings in Donegall St this morning given all they bring to the area. 'Sad to see this building & its heritage so badly damaged by fire. 'Thoughts are with our neighbours this morning.' Belfast City Councillor, Fiona Ferguson, added: 'Devastating morning for residents, businesses and groups impacted by the Cathedral Quarter fire. 'I've have raised the issue with the Chief Executive of Belfast City Council to see what urgent support can be provided.' The public has been told to expect delays on Donegall Street, Royal Avenue and York Street areas. Translink said that all Metro and Ulsterbus services will be avoiding the area until further notice. Firefighters remain at the scene. By Javier Solana MADRID In his prophetic 1838 Lyceum Address, a generation before the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln predicted that the fall of the United States, if it were ever to occur, would not come from an outside threat, but rather as a result of internal division. "It cannot come from abroad," he said, "If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher." At grave historical moments, the fears of America's greatest leaders re-enter the country's political discourse. In a speech in Philadelphia last month, President Joe Biden's concern for American democracy was eerily similar to Lincoln's. Biden's choice to deliver his speech outside Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted in 1776, was meant to convey the significance of his remarks. The title of the address "The Continued Battle for the Soul of the Nation" reflected the polarized nature of contemporary U.S. politics. The U.S. is the world's leading power, so what happens there good and bad rarely stays there. Its political health affects the world's overall stability. Without a politically stable U.S., we cannot effectively address any of humanity's most pressing challenges. I first set foot in the U.S. in 1965 as a Fulbright scholar and lived there for five years. Lyndon B. Johnson was the president, and the country, mired in Vietnam and reckoning with the Civil Rights Movement demand for an end to legal racism, was in turmoil. Six decades later, the U.S. is again experiencing political upheaval, but of a very different kind. While the social conflicts that defined the 1960s revolved around unacceptable injustices for any modern society, America's foundational institutions remained unquestioned. Nobody in 1965 questioned whether Johnson was the legitimate president. Today, by contrast, the legitimacy of the country's democratic institutions particularly its electoral system is at stake. Against this background, the U.S. midterm elections will be immensely consequential for American democracy, as one of the parties responsible for sustaining it has succumbed to former U.S. President Donald Trump's populist authoritarianism. Of the 208 candidates Trump endorsed in Republican primaries for the House of Representatives, the Senate, and state governorships, 95 percent will be on the ballot in November. The international community's ability to lead a fragmented world out of crisis will also be on the ballot. Following a pandemic from which the world has yet to recover, the war in Europe threatens to upend societies and economies worldwide. Making matters worse, the multilateral institutions created to manage the opportunities and risks of globalization are being overwhelmed by the world's accelerating division into rival geopolitical blocs and the decoupling of its two major powers. Given the political clout Trumpism has gained in recent years, some fear it could become a fixture of U.S. politics. Trumpism would never have been able to take root without conservatives' success in consolidating power, even when faced with electoral decline. After Barack Obama was elected president in 2008, the Republican Party flipped 11 state legislatures in the 2010 midterms. While Democrats were busy carrying out their domestic and international agenda in Washington, Republicans leveraged their dominance in state politics to rig the electoral map in their favor through extensive partisan gerrymandering. Fortunately, Trumpism is not invincible. Democrat Mary Peltola's recent triumph over Republican former governor Sarah Palin in the special election to fill Alaska's seat in the House of Representatives shows that even in traditionally red states, Trump-like populists can be defeated. To replicate this widely, however, Biden will have to unite Democrats and moderate Republicans, a monumental task. But even building democratic majorities may not be enough to save democracy. One of the strengths of the U.S. political system is its institutional architecture, which separates the federal government's power into executive, legislative, and judicial branches, thereby preventing overreach by any individual branch. Yet the U.S. Supreme Court is suffering a crisis of legitimacy, with recent rulings by the conservative super-majority calling into question the authority of the entire judiciary. As retired Justice Stephen Breyer recently said, if judges are seen merely as political operatives, the power of the courts to uphold the rule of law is diminished. History and its scholars provide an invaluable guide to understanding current events and their potential implications. A month ago, Biden called a group of historians from the country's top universities to the White House to analyze the current state of American society. The key takeaway was clear: political polarization is leading U.S. democracy to the brink of collapse. In 1838, Lincoln began his Lyceum Address with a question "At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected?" and gave a categorical answer that still rings true: the greatest threat to the future of democracy in the US is the internal divide. Today, Lincoln's prescient warning is of the uttermost relevance, for Americans, and international stability. Javier Solana, a former EU high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, secretary-general of NATO, and foreign minister of Spain, is president of EsadeGeo Center for Global Economy and Geopolitics and distinguished fellow at the Brookings Institution. This article was distributed by Project Syndicate (www.project-syndicate.org). Advertisement A world-renowned artist has spent two years covering every square inch of his 1.35million house in doodles - working his way through 900 litres of emulsion, 401 cans of spray paint, 286 bottles of drawing paint, and 2,296 pen nibs. Sam Cox, also known as Mr Doodle, has spent the last two years plastering the walls of his six-bedroom, neo-Georgian mansion with the signature black-and-white drawings that earned him his name. The artist, 28, built his 2.7million Instagram followers after studying illustration at the University of The West of England in Bristol, where he would spend 16-hour days drawing, earning him the nickname 'the Doodle Man'. He rose to notoriety in 2017 when he opened a Mr Doodle pop-up shop at Old Street station in east London, which saw a Facebook video of his creations viewed 46 million times in a week. But, according to Mr Cox, his lifelong goal has been to buy a house to transform into a 'doodle-verse'. And in 2019 the 28-year-old's dream came true when he purchased a property in the quaint town of Tenterden, Kent for 1.35 million. The world-renowned artist (pictured in front of his 'Doodle House') has spent two years covering every square inch of his 1.35million house in doodles - working his way through 900 litres of emulsion, 401 cans of spray paint, 286 bottles of drawing paint, and 2,296 pen nibs Sam Cox (pictured with his wife Alenaon the ground floor of the 'Doodle House'), also known as Mr Doodle, has spent the last two years plastering the walls of his six-bedroom, neo-Georgian mansion with the signature black-and-white drawings that earned him his name The artist (pictured outside the front door of his 'Doodle House'), 28, used spray paint for the outside of the property Mr Cox said the couple who sold him the house begged him not to doodle on the walls, but he ignored their pleas. He told The Sunday Times: 'They told me whatever you do, please don't doodle. I didn't listen.' The artist's adventurous project began in the main bedroom - which he decorated with 'dream' themed drawings - and the 2,000-tile en-suite bathroom, which has a sea theme. The first stage took a gruelling two months to complete, but Mr Cox was determined to finish it on his own. He added: 'It's the longest project I've done. I wanted to say I'd done it all myself.' On Sunday, Mr Cox unveiled the finished product (pictured is him in the bath in the bathroom) - which he described as his 'living artwork' - in a time-lapse video on social media According to Mr Cox (pictured with his wife Alena in the kitchen in the 'Doodle House'), his lifelong goal has been to buy a house to transform into a 'doodle-verse' Mr Cox has left no surface untouched, with every wall and ceiling and all amenities (pictured is the toaster, toast and crockery in the 'Doodle House') covered in monochromatic doodles On Sunday, Mr Cox unveiled the finished product - which he described as his 'living artwork' - in a time-lapse video on social media. He has left no surface untouched, with every wall and ceiling and all amenities - including the television, hob and bath - covered in monochromatic doodles. Despite admitting he did not plan any of his drawings, Mr Cox has given every room its own theme. For example, the hallway is covered with Noah's Ark creations, while the stairs are decorated with Heaven and Hell drawings. He said: 'I had a rough idea of the theme but the individual doodles are spontaneous. 'My main inspiration still goes back to when I was kid watching Tom and Jerry, Wacky Races and SpongeBob SquarePants, and video games like Crash Bandicoot. I always wanted to draw characters for video games.' For the indoor doodles, the 28-year-old explained that he used black acrylic paint and a bingo marker-pen in four different sizes. All the surfaces have been lacquered to ensure they do not fade. And for the outside of the property he used spray paint. The artist's adventurous project began in the main bedroom and the 2,000-tile en-suite bathroom (pictured), which has a sea theme For the indoor doodles, the 28-year-old explained that he used black acrylic paint and a bingo marker-pen in four different sizes (pictured is the finished kitchen) In 2019 the 28-year-old's doodle dream came true when he purchased a property (pictured) in the quaint town of Tenterden, Kent for 1.35 million The only downside to Sam's whacky house is that it has attracted attention from the local children who have taken to ringing the doorbell out of curiosity. But the artist has not received any complaints from his neighbours yet, so he has no plans to tone down the property's aesthetic or move house any time soon. He added: 'I'm unlikely to be persuaded to move, even if it was amazing money. 'I'd feel sad leaving this house, because it's my first one.' However, he admitted he would like to spread his creativity further by doodling more houses in the local area and 'and make a doodle town'. He told KentOnline: 'The completion of the house is just the beginning of my childhood dream to doodle the entire planet and to encourage the art world to recognise doodles as an art form. 'I am so excited that my doodles now have a permanent home in the UK.' Mr Cox (pictured lounging in a chair in his 'Doodle House') said the couple who sold him the house begged him not to doodle on the walls, but he ignored their pleas The artist's adventurous project began in the main bedroom (pictured with Mr Cox, left, and his wife Alena, right, sitting on the bed in the 'Doodle House') - which he decorated with 'dream' themed drawings - and the bathroom Despite admitting he did not plan any of his drawings, Mr Cox has given every room its own theme. For example, the hallway is covered with Noah's Ark creations, while the stairs are decorated with Heaven and Hell drawings (pictured with Mr Cox standing at the bottom of the staircase in the 'Doodle House') Mr Doodle, his wife Alena and their dog now plan to make the living artwork their permanent home in the coming weeks. The couple met on Instagram after Alena commented on one of Sam's videos prompting them to meet up in person in Berlin in 2018. Alena, who moved to the UK from Kharkiv, Ukraine in 2020, said she finds the monochromatic doodles 'calming' and even drives a doodled Tesla. However Sam's unique aesthetic has not necessarily been easy to live with - even for the artist himself. In February 2020, he contracted the flu and started having hallucinations about his doodles, which led to him spending six weeks on a psychiatric ward. He told The Sunday Times: 'I thought I was living in a video game as Mr Doodle and was friends with Banksy. 'It's a scary feeling to think you are losing your mind and not know what's real. It's impossible to know how to act or who to trust.' According to Sam, doctors said his psychotic episode was brought on by stress - something which he puts down to struggling with the administrative side of his work. He added: 'I'm glad I have a grasp on reality again and I now make sure to go on walks and step outside of doodle world now and then.' But he still believes doodling is good for his mental health and said he sleeps better if he spends at least 12 hours of the day drawing. A heroin addict who murdered his mother Friday and set her body on fire after she had threatened to kick him out of her $900,000 home has died two days later. Chef Adam Howe, 34, suffered a medical emergency while in his cell at Ashe Street Jail in New Bedford after his arrest on Friday. He was pronounced dead at St Luke's Hospital Sunday. No cause of death has yet been determined, the sheriff's office said. 'Out of respect for the family, we have no additional comment or details,' public information officer Jonathan Darling said in a statement Sunday night. 'That family has been through a lot this weekend; please keep them in your prayers.' A SWAT team had raided the affluent home he had shared with Susan Howe, 70, in Truto after family friends called in a welfare check on his mother. At the same time that the welfare check was called, the local fire department were also called to the scene after receiving a report of a fire. A joint press release from the police department and the prosecutor's office said that when officers arrived at the scene, they quickly realized that the fire was a the result of a dead body burning. Adam had been standing near the blaze but ran inside when the cops arrived. He was arrested shortly afterwards. Officers were able to ascertain that the person burning was Howe's mother. Adam Howe, 34, right, has died in hospital after being arrested for the murder of his mother, Susan Howe, 70, left. Between them is Adam's son Adam Howe's mugshot following his arrest by local authorities on Friday Adam with his wife Ailey, who he said in a Facebook post that he married in December 2019 Adam had been standing near the burning body but ran inside when the cops arrived at the $900,000 property in Cape Cod that he lived in with his mother According to the DA, Adam Howe spent the night of his arrest in hospital before being handed off to police custody on Saturday morning while they tried to find a space for him at a state-run facility. The addict had been expected to undergo a mental health check as part of his evaluation. A source close to the family told DailyMail.com that Adam and his wife both suffered from heroin addiction prior to the horrific events of Friday night. The source said that Adam had been living with his mother and that she had been on the verge of kicking him out due to his drug use. Assistant District Attorney Tara Miltimore told the Cape Cod Times: 'A family member had called and asked to check on the residence.' Susan Howe was the chair of the Truro Commission on Disabilities and the president of the Truro Historical Society. According to her Facebook page, Susan also worked at a clothing store in Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Susan regularly posted photos showing her with her son and his son's wife, Ailey. The most recent publicly visible post came in September 2021 when she shared photos showing the family laughing at brunch. The source said that Adam had been living with his mother and that she had been on the verge of kicking him out due to his drug use The joint press release from the police department and the prosecutor's office said that when officers arrived at the scene, they quickly realized that the fire was a the result of a dead body burning In October 2020, the trio took a vacation together to Boca Raton, Florida. Adam said in a Facebook post that he married his wife in December 2019. On the eve of their first anniversary he wrote on Facebook: '365 days ago I married the greatest woman in the world!' The couple have a daughter together. On the Intro section of his page, Adam wrote: 'I'm a new husband and a new dad! My life is awesome!' On his LinkedIn page, Adam says that he previously worked as a chef in numerous restaurants in Vermont and Massachusetts. In 2012, he appeared on an episode of the Food Network's show: Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell. Adam was also a food writer for the magazine Southern Vermont Landscapes. The latest update on that profile says that Adam is working on an English degree at Castleton University. He previously studied English Literature at Emmanuel College in Boston. On the eve of their first anniversary he wrote on Facebook: '365 days ago I married the greatest woman in the world!' On September 15, Adam wrote on Facebook that his latest children's book was due to be published titled: Is That My Ring? The plot deals with a little girl searching through the big city looking for her mother's wedding ring. On the same day, Adam also wrote on Facebook that he appreciated the outpouring of support for his wife, Aliey. He wrote: 'Aliey is safe and doing well and recovering and we are happy to say that she is on her way back to her loving family.' The murder suspect added: 'We are all readying for the day that the Howe's are all where they are supposed to be. And where they can all be their happiest and healthiest selves.' Susan Howe lived in the Houser Way neighborhood in Truro. Her home is valued at just over $900,000, according to Zillow Susan Howe was a native of Natick, Massachusetts, and graduated from both Syracuse University, in 1974, and Boston University, in 1978 Susan Howe lived in the Houser Way neighborhood in Truro. Her home is valued at just over $900,000, according to Zillow. Susan's death came just a few weeks before her 71st birthday. She was a native of Natick, Massachusetts, and graduated from both Syracuse University, in 1974, and Boston University, in 1978. The local Truro government issued a statement on Howe's death saying: 'Our hearts are heavy with the news that we have lost a beloved member of our community, Susan Howe.' It continued: 'Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends at this time of tragic loss. We are following the lead of law enforcement as they investigate this tragedy and have no further comment at this time.' Speaking to the Boston Herald, DA Michael O'Keefe conceded that murders are rare in Truro, a town best associated realist painter Edward Hopper, who lived there in the 1930s and based some of his most famous works on the visual beauty of the area. In 2002, writer Christa Washington was raped and murdered in her home in the town. O'Keefe would not 'get into comparisons' with the two cases, according to the Herald. On his LinkedIn page, Adam says that he previously worked as a chef in numerous restaurants in Vermont and Massachusetts Washington was at home with her daughter when the crime occurred. Her daughter was unharmed. Trash collector Christopher McCowen was later convicted of the killing and sentenced to life in prison. O'Keefe also told the newspaper: 'I don't think it's going to shock people to hear that we have a broken mental health system and it's been broken for a long time.' In a separate interview with the Boston Globe, O'Keefe said that his office is seeking to have Howe removed from police custody and brought to a mental health facility. He said: 'We have to prove, affirmatively, at any subsequent legal proceedings that this guy was sane at the time of the crime. We want the evaluation done closest in time to the actions that resulted in someone's death.' Officials had said that Howe will undergo a mental health evaluation as a result of conversations with and information from family members. The incident is under investigation by the State Police Detectives assigned to the District Attorney's Office, Truro Police, and the State Fire Marshalls Office. An award-winning pub landlord is behind bars after a 'vile' online message was watched 20,000 times on Tik Tok. Gareth Slattery, 53, carried out a campaign of abuse against his former partner branding her a 'racist and a gold digger'. Slattery, from Barry, Wales, also accused her of giving him a sexually transmitted disease during a torrent of abuse after their eight-month relationship ended. Abigail Jackson, prosecuting, said: 'He messaged her, "I would like you to know you are a TikTok sensation." The court was told one Tik Tok post targeting the victim had attracted 20,000 views. Slattery appealed the 16-week jail sentence he was given in September, but his appeal was dismissed by a judge who told him he was the architect of his own downfall. Welsh landlord Gareth Slattery, 53, lost his appeal after being sentenced to 16 weeks in jail for stalking and harassing his ex-girlfriend Slattery had bombarded his ex with unwanted messages and turned up at her workplace, her home and solicitors' office He owns the Butterfly Collector pub in Barry, South Wales, which won SME National Business Awards Pub of the Year in 2019. He was found guilty of harassment following a trial at Cardiff Magistrates' Court, but tried to overturn the sentence at Cardiff Crown Court. Slattery had bombarded his ex with unwanted messages and turned up at her workplace, her home and solicitors' office. In the TikTok video, he accused his former partner of being a narcissist and abuser. He said: 'I'm a 53-year-old victim of domestic violence. As a male victim I am not heard... this is what you have done to me.' The magistrates court heard the harassment took place between August and September last year. District Judge Stephen Harmes said Slattery, who has previous convictions of harassment and breaching a restraining order, tried to claim he was a victim of abuse but in reality he abused his victim in a 'vile manner'. Prosecutor Georgia Donohue said the now removed video which tagged the victim was posted online on August 23, 2021, before he showed up at her workplace a day later. Slattery owns the award-winning Butterfly Collector pub in Barry, south Wales 'He has brought his present situation upon himself,' Judge Paul Hobson said at Cardiff Crown Court Ms Donohue said Slattery stood outside her office and called her on the phone, saying: 'I'm not going to come anywhere near you. I don't want any more herpes and chlamydia.' The court heard the victim visited her solicitor the following day to seek advice when she heard Slattery shouting: 'You piece of s***. You piece of s***.' Ms Donohue said: 'She saw the defendant standing there. She knew the comments were aimed at her as there was no one else in the area.' The court heard the victim also heard her ex shouting about herpes while she was in her bedroom on August 26. The next day she spotted him on her way to Tesco when she asked: 'Please don't talk to me, I'm not allowed to talk to you.' But he shouted that the victim 'has herpes' which the call handler heard while she was on the phone to 999. Slattery was convicted of harassing without violence after a trial and was sentenced to 16 weeks in jail, ordered to pay the victim 500 compensation and handed a five year restraining order, but appealed the decision Aled Owen, representing Slattery, told the magistrates court at the time of sentencing that four people at the pub could lose their jobs if he was sent into custody. Judge Harmes concluded at the magistrates court: 'I find he did set out to make her life a misery. It was quite calculated and deliberate.' 'This was as bad as it gets in terms of harassment. You are a proven harasser and this was an awful case.' Slattery was convicted of harassing without violence after a trial and was sentenced to 16 weeks in jail, ordered to pay the victim 500 compensation and handed a five year restraining order, but appealed the decision. Ieuan Rees, representing Slattery, told Cardiff Crown Court at the appeal: 'There were no overt threats of violence or anything of that nature.' His barrister said: 'He runs a pub, it's a micro pub and the turnover isn't great but during the fortnight he has been in custody taking are down by at least 25 per cent. 'This will have a knock on effect on his four employees.' Mr Rees added: 'He's in a new relationship and your honour will have seen a letter from her, she sits at the back of the court. 'She is in fact a headmistress in Penarth and she's doing her best at the moment to carry out her own duties and assist him with keeping the pub running.' Judge Paul Hobson said: 'Mr Slattery posted a number of defamatory videos about her online on his TikTok account. 'He is an individual with an entirely warped attitude to issues of this kind.' 'He has brought his present situation upon himself.' Leader of Poland's ruling party has been increasingly hostile toward Germany in recent months, accusing it of dominating the European Union Germany meanwhile considers the case closed, arguing that compensation and land was already given to Eastern European countries in the years after war Right wing Law and Justice party says reparations would strengthen relations Poland's foreign minister today signed a note formally requesting that Germany pay 1.1 trillion in reparations for the damage incurred by occupying Nazis during World War II. Zbigniew Rau, of the ruling 'Law and Justice' party, said the note will be handed to Germany's Foreign Ministry and comes on the eve of Rau's meeting in Warsaw with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, who is to attend a security conference. Rau said the note expresses his view that the two sides should take action 'without delay' to address the effects of Germany's 1939-45 occupation in a 'lasting and complex, legally binding as well as material way.' He said that would include German reparations as well as solving the issue of looted artworks, archives and bank deposits, adding that Berlin should make efforts to inform German society about the 'true' picture of the war and its disastrous effects on Poland. Warsaw says that payment of reparations would strengthen bilateral relations through truth and justice and would close painful chapters from the past. Germany says the matter was closed decades ago. Polish Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau signs an official diplomatic note outlining the country's demands for reparations from Germany for the damage caused by the Second World War German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock will meet with Polish officials tomorrow Chairman of the main World Association of Home Army Soldiers Leszek Zukowski (2L) and Polish World War II veteran Colonel Wlodzimierz Cieszkowski (R) take part in a ceremony marking the Allied victory against Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in Europe (VE Day), at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Warsaw, Poland, 08 May 2022 Poland's right-wing government argues that the country that was the war's first victim has not been fully compensated by neighbouring Germany, which is now one of its major partners within the European Union. On September 1 - the 83rd anniversary of the start of WWII, Poland's government presented an extensive report on the damages, estimating that the nation had endured 1.1 trillion worth of devastation. Officials also rejected a 1953 declaration by the country's then-communist leaders, under pressure from the Soviet Union, that Poland would not make any further claims on Germany. Germany meanwhile argues compensation was paid to Eastern Bloc nations in the years after the war, and territories that Poland lost in the east as borders were redrawn were compensated with some of Germany's pre-war lands. Berlin calls the matter closed, and it was Moscow that decided Poland would receive only a small fraction of the compensation. In the 1990s Germany paid one-time compensation to former inmates of Nazi concentration camps and to victims of forced labour, including many Poles. But despite good bilateral relations, the leader of Poland's Law and Justice party Jaroslaw Kaczynski has recently made increasingly hostile remarks about Germany, recalling its wartime guilt and alleging that it is dominating the European Union. The remains of the barracks and the main building of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi death camp are picture din in Oswiecim, Poland Despite good bilateral relations, the leader of Poland's Law and Justice party Jaroslaw Kaczynski has recently made increasingly hostile remarks about Germany in recent months Critics see Kaczynski's remarks as a mere marketing ploy aimed at rallying backing ahead of general elections scheduled next fall. Opinion polls suggest the ruling Law and Justice party and its allies will lose the narrow majority that now allows them to pass legislation without negotiating with other parties. Senate Speaker Tomasz Grodzki, a member of the opposition, said anti-German rhetoric was shaping up to be the ruling party's mantra for the upcoming election - that voting against the ruling part was voting against Poland's interests. 'This is evident nonsense; it's untrue. It's a desperate attempt at defence against surveys that show falling support,' Grodzki said. Some 6 million of Poland's citizens, including 3 million Jews, were killed in the war, though some of them were victims of the Soviet Red Army which swept in from the East. It comes as the Kremlin was forced to dismiss comments made by Kadyrov yesterday in which he called for nuclear weapons to be used in Ukraine He posted a video of the boys firing machine guns and missiles on a range 'It's time to prove themselves in a real fight,' the Chechen leader said Ramzan Kadyrov said his teenage sons, aged 16, 15 and 14, will go to Ukraine Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has claimed he will send three teenage sons - aged 14, 15 and 16 - to the frontlines in Ukraine. A close ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin, Kadyrov has been one of the most vocal advocates for increased military action in Ukraine and his troops have a reputation for being particularly brutal. 'It's time to prove themselves in a real fight, I can only welcome this desire,' Kadyrov wrote on Telegram, posting a video of the young boys firing missiles in a shooting range. 'Soon they will go to the front line and will be on the most difficult sections of the contact line. 'They are ready to show their skills in the zone of the special military operation.' He added that Akhmat, 16, Eli, 15, and Adam, 14, have been trained for combat 'almost from their youngest years' and insisted he was 'not joking.' The video showed the boys in camouflage clothing and dark glasses, on tanks, guns strapped to their waists, shooting rocket launchers and machine guns. The post came as the Kremlin today dismissed statements made by Kadyrov on Sunday in which he called on Putin to deploy low-yield nuclear weapons in Ukraine amid Russia's ailing military campaign. A video released on Telegram by Kadyrov showed his sons taking to the shooting range and testing a variety of automatic weapons Military instructor shows Kadyrov's teenage sons how to operate a heavy machine gun The trio fired grenades from underslung grenade launchers and experimented with a range of weapons Kadyrov, a former warlord who leads the Muslim-majority Chechnya republic, has been one of Russia's most vocal supporters of Putin's Ukraine offensive (Kadryov pictured left with Putin) The boys were even given rocket propelled grenades to test on the range Kadyrov's sons high-five after letting loose on the shooting range Kadyrov, a former warlord who leads the Muslim-majority Chechnya republic, has been one of Russia's most vocal supporters of Putin's Ukraine offensive. He was slotted into power by Putin in 2007 to exert control over the region which had fought bloody wars for independence from Moscow throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Since Russian tanks rolled across the border on February 24, the Chechen leader has consistently called on Russia's defence ministry to commit additional forces to the conflict and has called on fighting age men in Chechnya to volunteer to go to fight for Russian interests in Ukraine. Kadyrov has also earned a reputation for forcing his sons to face adversity from an early age. In 2016 he entered them - then aged 10, 9 and 8 - in a full contact mixed martial arts bout. Footage of the fights went viral and prompted widespread criticism, including from Russian MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko. The Chechen leader made more headlines over the weekend when he called on Putin to deploy 'low-yield nuclear weapons' in Ukraine amid the latest spate of Russian defeats. 'I do not know what the Defence Ministry reports to the Supreme Commander-in-Chief [Putin], but in my personal opinion, we need to take more drastic measures, up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and use of low-yield nuclear weapons,' he said. Kadyrov complained that Putin's commanders had failed to rout Ukraine's supposed 'Satanists and fascists', and made no bones about his desire for nuclear weapons to be detonated on Ukrainian soil. He also criticised Colonel-General Alexander Lapin, who is in charge of Russia's forces fighting in the region, calling him 'mediocre'. But Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov this morning sought to undermine Kadyrov's spirited remarks. One of Kadyrov's children takes aim downrange with an assault rifle Images taken from the video posted by Kadyrov showed the children smiling, high-fiving and given thumbs up to the camera Chechnya's regional leader Ramzan Kadyrov arrives to attend a ceremony to sign the treaties for four regions of Ukraine to join Russia, at the Kremlin in Moscow, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022 Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov tried to calm tensions today after Kadyrov yesterday pushed for the use of nukes on Ukrainian soil 'This is a very emotional moment. The heads of regions have the right to express their point of view,' Peskov said in a call with reporters on Monday. 'But even in difficult moments, emotions should be kept out of any kind of assessment. So we prefer to stick to balanced, objective assessments. 'In our country, the use of nuclear weapons happens only on the basis of what is stated in the relevant doctrine.' The Kremlin mouthpiece nevertheless hailed the 'heroic contributions' of the Chechen leader to the military operation in Ukraine. Last month, Putin warned the West he was 'not bluffing' when he said Russia was prepared to use nuclear weapons to protect its territory. On Friday he said the United States had created a 'precedent' by dropping nuclear bombs on Japan at the end of World War Two. Advertisement A new supermarket run by takeaway giant Deliveroo flopped on its first day of trading today - with just two customers turning up to order food in the 90 minutes of the store's doors opening. The British tech firm threw open the doors to its new 'Deliveroo Hop' shop in New Oxford Street at 3.30pm this afternoon. A flurry of riders and delivers could be seen entering and leaving to rapidly get orders to people's homes. But our reporter counted just two people who were not shop employees using the new 'digital kiosks' to order food directly from the store. All of the 1,750 grocery items on sale will be supplied by Morrisons, who have partnered as Deliveroo's official food provider for the store. Customers can order food in three ways- through a 'McDonalds' style touch screen before being collected by an in-house team, by ordering on the app and turning up to collect goods from the shop or for delivery by a rider through the app in the traditional way. Retail property consultant Toby Comerford, 58, from Ivinghoe in Buckinghamshire, was the first customer in the store. The British tech firm threw open the doors to its new 'Deliveroo Hop' shop in New Oxford Street at 3.30pm this afternoon A flurry of riders and delivers could be seen entering and leaving to rapidly get orders to people's homes (Pictured: The interior of the store) All of the 1,750 grocery items on sale will be supplied by Morrisons , who have partnered as Deliveroo's official food provider for the store Staff pose proudly at the Deliveroo store in New Oxford Street on its opening today Retail property consultant Toby Comerford, 58, from Ivinghoe in Buckinghamshire, was the first customer in the store Staff member pack bags at Deliveroo Hop store on its opening day today He said: 'I heard about it on LinkedIn and I thought I would come and look at it. 'If you had one in Euston it would be very useful. I could order what I want before getting on the tube and it would be ready for me when I get out of the tube. 'You can be in the office and order it and it is ready in five minutes.' Passer-by Cerys Burton, 22, an actor from Clapham in South West London, said she would consider using one if they opened in a residential area. She said: 'If there was one more locally I think I might use it. 'It looks quite convenient and obviously being Deliveroo it should be quite easy to use. If there were more of these outside of central London then it could catch on.' Other passers-by were more sceptical of the idea- saying it doesn't do anything that can't be done on an app already, isn't cheap enoigh, isn't a good place to do a big food shop and may prove difficult for old people to navigate. Mr Comerford (pictured) said: 'I heard about it on LinkedIn and I thought I would come and look at it. 'If you had one in Euston it would be very useful. I could order what I want before getting on the tube Deliveroo today opened its first physical grocery store in partnership with Morrisons Australian tourists Tony Filippi (pictured), 54, and Matt Littlejohn, 40, said similar apps had struggled Customers can order food in three ways- through a 'McDonalds' style touch screen before being collected by an in-house team, by ordering on the app and turning up to collect goods from the shop or for delivery by a rider through the app in the traditional way. Edward Kirk, 26, a student from Marylebone, central London, said: 'I use Deliveroo through the app, but I don't think I would go inside there because it defeats the purpose of it. 'I would not use, it is nothing new. 'If you want something quick you can just use the app. I already have the Hop app and use it to buy things from Waitrose and Morrisons.' Oyana Owono, 23, from Woolwich, South East London, who works in a nearby Pret, said: 'It does not look like something I would really do. 'It depends on if you have time and I like to do only one big shop a week.' Australian tourists Tony Filippi, 54, and Matt Littlejohn, 40, said: 'We probably would not use it. There is a similar app called Milk Run but it often misses its targets to deliver products to people within 10 minutes. 'It has had to apologise to some people and there are other similar companies who are struggling. 'With the cost of living crisis it could struggle to compete with cheaper supermarkets.' The business venture comes after the firm, set up by entrepreneurs Will Shu and Greg Orlowski, saw success with rapid grocery deliveries during the Covid pandemic - when many people turned to home deliveries instead of visiting supermarkets. But with fellow delivery giants Amazon pushing its grocery store business, and other grocery delivery start-ups nipping at its heels, the company is expanding its two wheels empire with bricks-and-mortar. Eric French, chief operating officer of Deliveroo, said: 'We are opening our doors and welcoming commuters, local residents, visitors and day-trippers into our first Deliveroo high-street grocery store in the UK. Just two customers were spotted making purchases from the store after it opened at 3.30pm today Takeaway delivery firm Deliveroo is wheeling its way into the supermarket business, by openings its first ever grocery store on Oxford Street (pictured) All of the 1,750 grocery items will be supplied by Morrisons , who have partnered as Deliveroo's official food provider for the store (pictured) So how DOES the new Deliveroo store work? 1) Walk-in and order Customers can walk into the New Oxford Street store and make an order via the digital kiosks. A staff member will then pack the shopping from behind the counter and then hand the order to a customer when ready. 2) Order via the app and collect Customers can order groceries from the New Oxford Street store via the Deliveroo. A staff member will pack the shopping and the customer can then pick up the groceries when the order is completed. 3) Order via the app and delivery Customers can order groceries from the New Oxford Street store and then have them delivered to their home. Advertisement 'Our New Oxford Street store promises a new way to shop for Deliveroo customers, giving them even greater flexibility and choice, and should help boost the local area, with nearly two-thirds of shoppers saying they will visit other nearby shops as they come to shop with Deliveroo.' For its new site, Deliveroo has partnered with Morrisons to sell items, including ready meals, fresh food from its The Best range, and cupboard staples. Customers will be able to order groceries through digital kiosks in the store - much like customers do in fast food outlets such as McDonalds - and wait for an in-store assistant to pack them from behind the counter. They can also pre-order items via the Deliveroo app and collect them when they are ready. The firm said this means people can skip the supermarket shop and walk away with their groceries in minutes. Deliveroo say that customers can also still order home deliveries from the Oxford Street store through the app. Supermarkets have been keen to cash in on the demand for rapid delivery that grew during the pandemic, with many signing up to food delivery platforms like Deliveroo and Uber Eats. Deliveroo - which has around 7,000 grocery sites in the UK and Ireland - partnered with supermarket giants like Waitrose and Sainsbury's and pledges to deliver in as little as 20 minutes. Located on the capital's New Oxford Street, the shop will allow users of its app (pictured) to order food and groceries for pick-up or delivery It comes after the British firm, set up by entrepreneurs Will Shu (pictured) and Greg Orlowski, saw success with rapid grocery deliveries during the Covid pandemic - when many people turned to home deliveries instead of visiting supermarkets The launch comes a month after Deliveroo revealed it was operating at a loss of 147 million in the first half of the year, after cash-strapped consumers cut back on takeaways. Its half-year losses had widened significantly from the 95 million posted a year ago. In another blow to the business, its non-executive director Lord Wolfson, chief executive of high street chain Next, said he had stepped down from its board 18 months after taking on the role. Lord Wolfson said his role at Deliveroo was 'no longer compatible with my executive and other commitments'. But Deliveroo said it was making good progress in its profitability plan and planned to pull out of the Netherlands to shore up more cash. Meanwhile President Joe Biden has been criticized for calling Trump's supporters in Congress 'MAGA extremists' Donald Trump stirred outrage when he posted on Truth Social over the weekend that Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell 'has a death wish' Some lawmakers have complained that despite rising threats it's still hard to get adequate security to feel safe for members who are not senior The number of threats against members of Congress has increased tenfold between 2016 and 2021, according to the Capitol Police 'What started with abusive phone calls is now translating into active threats of violence and real violence,' longtime Sen. Susan Collins told the NY Times Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins is warning that online and phoned-in verbal attacks on lawmakers could soon translate into dangerous real-world situations, particularly as members of Congress take on more public events in the lead-up to November's midterm races. 'I wouldnt be surprised if a senator or House member were killed,' Collins told the New York Times on Saturday. 'What started with abusive phone calls is now translating into active threats of violence and real violence.' Growing political divisions have led to a surge in online confrontations that have enveloped both lawmakers and everyday Americans. The Department of Homeland Security has sent out multiple bulletins this year alone that warn of increased threats against federal employees and others in the political sphere. All the while, violent rhetoric is becoming normalized language to invigorate the voter base. Donald Trump said late last week that Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell 'has a death wish' over the Kentucky Republican's vote to fund the government and avoid a shutdown. And Democrat Rep. Tim Ryan, who is running for an open Senate seat in Ohio, said on MSNBC last month that Americans must 'kill and confront' the MAGA Republican movement after President Joe Biden angered the GOP by calling Trump's supporters in Congress 'extremists.' Longtime GOP Senator Susan Collins of Maine warned that verbal threats against members of Congress could escalate into real violence Between 2016 and 2021, the number of threats recorded against members of Congress had increased tenfold, according to the Times. Some lawmakers are also reportedly shelling out thousands of dollars on security and taking extreme safety measures to cope with the ever-hanging threats to their lives. Democrat Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia, who is facing a tough re-election race against Republican challenger Herschel Walker this year, reportedly spends more than any other member of Congress on security. Warnock has paid nearly $900,000 in protection fees since joining Congress after a special election in 2021, the Times' analysis states. Next down the line is reportedly Texas GOP Senator Ted Cruz - having spent approximately $600,000 in the same period. The number of threats made against lawmakers has increased 10 times between 2016 and 2021, the year the US Capitol riot took place Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who receives more threats than the majority of her colleagues, blasted the Congressional security system as unfair to more junior members and lawmakers who are not in leadership roles. 'You are now extra tasked with providing and coming up with your own financial resources for your own safety,' she told the Times. She's spent over $120,000 since 2021 on security, according to the Times, and she claims it took more than two years of leaning on the Capitol Police to get extra protection. Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Rep. Pramila Jayapal reportedly had similar struggles to get added protection after a man was arrested who would regularly park his car outside of her house and shout vulgar comments, and reportedly said he would stop if the Washington Democrat killed herself. Georgia Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock (left) and Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz (right) are reportedly the two biggest spenders on security in Congress After his arrest it emerged he was planning to buy a semiautomatic weapon to keep menacing Jayapal until she 'goes back to India.' The man was eventually let out on bail with GPS monitoring. Jayapal told the times, 'It took an enormous amount of pressure for me to feel like I was getting attention from Capitol Police.' And in August, GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's home was swatted multiple times by apparent prank callers. A person who claimed to be calling from Greene's house phoned 9-1-1 and told emergency responders that someone was 'shot multiple times' there because they were 'upset about her views on transgender rights,' according to the police report obtained by DailyMail.com. The police report states that the person told officers they were linked to a nefarious website 'that supports cyberstalking' known as Kiwi Farms.' The couple took his car on a trip to Las Vegas where the police tried to pull them over but they abandoned the car and escaped A couple has been arrested for robbing a man at gunpoint after setting up a fake date on Tinder. Jose Sandoval Jaquez, 32, and Crystal Hulsey, 33, stole a total of $3,000 from the unnamed victim when they met at the Embassy Suites hotel in Phoenix. The pair pulled a gray pistol on him and forced him to drive to a nearby Chase ATM to take out $900 before making off with the loot. They also forced him to hand over his phone, ID cards, social media accounts and bank information, with $3,000 being taken overall. Jaquez and Hulsey were finally brought to justice following a dramatic police chase after cops spotted her online advert for escort services. At 10am on September 17 the victim who was expecting to meet 'Sonya' was instead met by Jose Sandoval Jaquez (left), 32, and Crystal Hulsey (right), 33 in an Embassy Suites hotel room. In the room Jaquez pointed a gray pistol at him, according to court documents The Embassy Suites hotel in Phoenix in which the victim was expecting to meet his Tinder date Sonya at around 10am on September 17. Instead he was robbed at gunpoint, forfeiting bank account information and his car At 10am on September 17 the victim planned to meet 'Sonya' but was instead met by Jaquez and Hulsey in an Embassy Suites hotel room. In the room Jaquez pointed a gray pistol at him, according to court documents. 'While they drove his car to the bank, the unknown male continued to have the gun out and provide instructions for the victim,' said the police in a report. The couple then took the victim's car to Las Vegas. Seven days later after the initial robbery on September 25 police tried to pull them over but they ditched the car and escaped. In the victim's abandoned car police found the gray pistol. After days on the run, Phoenix Police were able to track down the couple because they used their real names for hotel bookings. They eventually located the suspects by setting up a meeting with Hulsey, who was presenting online as an escort and advertised her phone number. On September 28 they identified her outside a La Quinta Inn in Phoenix in a Nissan Rogue that Jaquez was driving. Jaquez sped off leading the police on a chase in which he drove on the wrong side of the road and which spanned multiple cities, said a police report. During the chase the SUV ran out of gas so Jaquez crashed into and stole another car to continue the escape. The La Quinta Inn where Phoenix Police agreed to meet the couple after they had spent several days on the run and made a trip to Las Vegas. Jaquez made off in a Nissan Rogue and led police on a chase that ended more than a hundred miles north The suspects initially fled east of Phoenix towards the East Valley, driving to Tempe, Mesa and Gilbert. They eventually crashed the stolen car into another vehicle near Happy Jack, Arizona, more than a hundred miles from where the chase started. Before the pair were able to escape again a Department of Public Safety helicopter landed and troopers arrested them. In an interview with the police Jaquez admitted that he grabbed a man out of a car and said his girlfriend came with him. A police report said that Jaquez stated that he tried to steal another car but got arrested. He also identified himself in photos at the Embassy Suites. 'Jose stated he knew this would come back to get him,' said Phoenix Police. Hulsey was accused of assault, robbery, vehicle theft, kidnapping, and drug offenses. Jaquez was accused of assault, robbery, vehicle theft, and kidnapping. Iran has accused the US and Israel for planning the violent protests that have gripped the nation after a woman was killed in custody after being arrested by the 'morality police' for not wearing her hijab correctly. The unrest is flaring up across the country for a third week despite government efforts to crack down on the riots. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded publicly today to the biggest protests in Iran in years, breaking weeks of silence to blame his enemies. Speaking to a cadre of police students in Tehran, Khamenei said he was 'heartbroken' by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody, calling it a 'sad incident.' However, he sharply condemned the protests as a foreign plot to destabilise Iran, echoing authorities' previous comments. Iran has accused the US and Israel for planning the violent protests that have gripped the nation Pro-government demonstrators burn representations of the British, Israeli, and U.S flags during a rally Iranian students attempt to open the entrance gate at the University of Isfahan in the Islamic republic's central city Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reviews armed forces during a graduation ceremony for armed Forces Officers' Universities today Amini was pronounced dead on September 16, days after the notorious morality police detained the Kurdish Iranian for allegedly breaching rules forcing women to wear hijab headscarves and modest clothes. Khamenei said: 'This rioting was planned. These riots and insecurities were designed by America and the Zionist regime, and their employees.' He added: 'The duty of our security forces, including police, is to ensure the safety of the Iranian nation. 'The ones who attack the police are leaving Iranian citizens defenceless against thugs, robbers and extortionists.' Security forces, including police and the volunteer Basij militia, have been leading a crackdown on the protests, with thousands arrested and hundreds injured, according to rights groups, which put the death toll at over 130. Iranian authorities have reported many members of the security forces killed during the unrest, which has spiralled into the biggest show of opposition to Iran's authorities in years, with many calling for the end of more than four decades of Islamic clerical rule. Iran shuttered its top technology university today following an hours-long standoff between students and the police that turned the prestigious institution into the latest flashpoint of protests and ended with hundreds of young people arrested. People run during clashes with riot police as students protest following the death of death of Mahsa Amini, in Tehran Iranian women walk in a street, in Tehran today on the third week of violent protests Sharif University of Technology in Tehran announced that only doctoral students would be allowed on campus until further notice following hours of turmoil on Sunday evening, when witnesses said antigovernment protesters clashed with hardline pro-establishment students. 'Woman, life, liberty' the students shouted, as well as 'students prefer death to humiliation', Mehr news agency reported. Iran's science minister, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol, came to speak to the students in a bid to calm the situation, the report said. Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights posted videos apparently showing police on motorcycles chasing students running through an underground car park and taking away detainees whose heads were covered in black cloth bags. In one clip, which IHR said was taken at a Tehran metro station, a crowd can be heard chanting: 'Don't be afraid! Don't be afraid! We are all together!' Public anger has grown since authorities announced the death earlier this month People gather during a protest for Ms Amini, who was allegedly arrested for not complying with strict dress code in Tehran Mahsa Amini died in custody on September 16 after she was detained in Tehran by Iranian morality police 'Hard to bear what is happening at #SharifUniversity in #Iran,' German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock tweeted. 'The courage of the Iranians is incredible. And the regime's brute force is an expression of sheer fear of the power of education and freedom.' The witnesses, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said the police kept hundreds of students holed up on campus and fired rounds of tear gas to disperse the demonstrations. The university's student association said that police and plainclothes officers surrounded the school from all sides and detained at least 300 students as protests rocked the campus after nightfall. Plainclothes officers beat a professor and several university employees, the association reported. The state-run IRNA news agency sought to downplay the violent standoff, reporting a 'protest gathering ' took place and ended without casualties. Iran's latest protest movement, which has produced some of the nation's most widespread unrest in years, emerged as a response to Amini's death after her arrest for allegedly violating the country's strict Islamic dress code. A demonstrator raises his arms and makes the victory sign during a protest for Mahsa Amini in Tehran this week However, it has grown into an open challenge to the Iranian leadership, with chants of 'Death to the dictator,' echoing from the streets and balconies after dark. The demonstrations have tapped into a deep well of grievances in Iran, including the country's social restrictions, political repression and ailing economy long strangled by American sanctions. Protests, with women burning their state-mandated headscarves and crowds chanting for the downfall of the ruling clerics, have continued in Tehran and far-flung provinces even as authorities have restricted internet access to the outside world and blocked social media apps. In his remarks on Monday, Khamenei condemned scenes of protesters ripping off their hijabs and setting fire to mosques, banks and police cars as 'actions that are not normal, that are unnatural.' Security forces have responded with tear gas, metal pellets and in some cases live fire, according to rights groups and widely shared footage, although the scope of the crackdown remains unclear. An untold number of people have been apprehended, with local officials reporting at least 1,500 arrests. Security forces have picked up dozens of artists and activists who have voiced support for the protests, as well as dozens of journalists in the widening dragnet. Tens of thousands of people among them many women have poured on to the streets in more than 100 towns and cities across Iran, enraged at her death and at four decades of oppression Most recently on Sunday, authorities arrested Alborz Nezami, a reporter at an economic newspaper in Tehran. Khamenei said that those who foment unrest to 'sabotage' the country deserve harsh prosecution and punishment. Young people who 'come to the streets after excitement after watching something on the internet,' he added, should be 'disciplined.' Most of the protesters appear to be under age 25, according to eyewitnesses - Iranians who have grown up with global isolation and severe Western sanctions linked to Iran's nuclear program. Talks to revive the landmark 2015 nuclear deal have stalled for months, fueling public discontent as Iran's currency declines in value and prices soar. As the new academic year began this week, students gathered in protest at universities across Iran, according to videos widely shared on social media, chanting slogans against the government and denouncing security forces' clampdown on demonstrators. Universities in major cities including Isfahan in central Iran, Mashhad in the northeast and Kermanshah in the west have held protests featuring crowds of students clapping, chanting and burning headscarves. 'Don't call it a protest, it's a revolution now,' shouted students at Shahid Beheshti University in the capital of Tehran, as women took off their hijabs and set them alight, in protest over Iran's law requiring women to cover their hair. 'Students are awake, they hate the leadership!' chanted crowds of students at the University of Mazandaran in the country's north. The eruption of student anger has worried the Islamic Republic since at least 1999, when security forces and supporters of hardline clerics attacked students protesting media restrictions. That wave of student protests under former reformist President Mohammad Khatami touched off the worst street battles since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Consultant physician was bailed ahead of next court appearance on October 31 A Harley Street doctor appeared in court today charged with sexually assaulting a woman at his surgery. Dr John Keet, 77, is said to have touched the alleged victim sexually approximately eight times between the dates of the October 1 and December 16 last year. Dr Keet is a consultant physician who has worked in Harley Street for more than 40 years. According to his website he is one of Londons most experienced medical professionals in General and Geriatric Medicine with an emphasis on diagnosis and management. Dr John Keet, 77, (pictured) a Harley Street consultant physician, appeared in court today charged with sexually assaulting a woman at his surgery Dr Keet is said to have touched the alleged victim sexually 'approximately eight times' between October 1 and December 16 last year General view of Southwark Crown Court, where Dr Keet will have his next hearing on October 31 Dr Keet appeared in Westminster Magistrates wearing a grey two-piece suit and a red tie where he denied sexual assault. Defence solicitor Grant Ambridge said the doctor was surprised by the charge, adding that he was of good character and has a long-standing community tie to the area. Dr Keet, of Upper Wimpole Street, central London, denies sexual assault. He was bailed ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing at Southwark Crown Court on October 31. Intensified efforts ensure better protection of Yellow River Xinhua) 15:10, October 03, 2022 LANZHOU, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The once-polluted Leitan River in Lanzhou City, capital of northwest China's Gansu Province, has taken on a new appearance following the completion of a water treatment project in December 2020. Today, sewage along the river, a tributary of China's Yellow River, is collected and transported to the main urban sewage network and discharged after meeting environmental standards. "In 2021, our treatment capacity increased from 260,000 to 300,000 tonnes after an upgrade, which has helped improve the water quality of the Yellow River," said Zhang Lei from Yan'erwan wastewater treatment plant, where the sewage is treated. Leitan River is no longer black and odorous today, thanks to the arduous wastewater treatment efforts. "The water quality of the mainstream of the Yellow River is continually improving," said Zhang Yali, an official with the Qilihe branch of Lanzhou ecology and environment bureau. "In the second quarter of this year, the water quality at the Qilihe section of the Yellow River was graded Class I, which was rare in the past," Zhang added. The transformation of the Leitan River is a reflection of the country's endeavors to protect the Yellow River, which is deemed China's "mother river." China has set the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River basin as a major national strategy, and as a result, the river is expected to play a crucial role in striking a balance between environmental protection and economic growth. The Yellow River originates from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and runs through the Loess Plateau. Flowing about 5,464 km through nine provincial-level regions, it is China's second-longest river, supplying water to 12 percent of China's population and irrigating 17 percent of the country's arable land. For provinces and regions on the upper stream of the river, ecological protection is among their top priorities. With the mainstream and more than 20 tributaries of the river running through Lanzhou, the city has endeavored to implement the national strategy. As an old saying goes, "When the Yellow River is harnessed, China will enjoy the tranquility." Acknowledging that the tranquility of the Yellow River is essential to the country's stability, the Chinese people have fought Yellow River flooding since ancient times. With a total investment of 1.68 billion yuan (about 237 million U.S. dollars), the city's embankment project was completed in 2021 after six years of construction. It is aimed at tackling the menace of flood and riverbank collapse, as well as strengthening environmental protection and afforestation. "From 2018 to 2020, the upper reaches of the Yellow River experienced three consecutive years of high water, and the project has ensured the safety of the embankment," said Feng Kangbin, director of the Lanzhou water affairs department. The city of Lanzhou, with heavy industries such as petrochemicals as its economic pillar, has accelerated its economic transformation to pursue lower resource consumption and greener economic development in recent years. Strategic emerging industries such as biomedicine and high-end equipment manufacturing have become new drivers of the regional economy. In 2021, the added value of such industries in Lanzhou increased 46.5 percent year on year. The green development path has also contributed to the joy of the people. Locals who enjoy jogging and outdoor leisure flock to the Yellow River banks in Lanzhou, thanks to the pleasant atmosphere. "What was once a natural moat has become a river of happiness," said Yang Shiping, a speedboat driver with the Lanzhou water transport group, who has a witnessed the Yellow River's transformation over the past decades. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) By Kim Jae-heun Global food container maker LocknLock has nominated former LG Electronics Vice President Lee Jae-ho as its new CEO, the company said last week. Lee will be officially appointed during the company's extraordinary meeting of shareholders on Oct. 17 along with his appointment as an executive director on the same day. LocknLock CEO Lee Jae-ho / Courtesy of LocknLock Police were nowhere in sight as a stark naked man caused a scene on a packed New York City subway platform, leaving MTA employees struggling to contain the raving man themselves. Footage from the Union Square station in downtown Manhattan showed an unidentified man wearing nothing but a right sock sprawled on his back on the ground as an MTA employee tries to restrain him. The man eventually breaks free and begins running errantly across the platform, circling a column and even doing a sort of freestyle breakdance across the floor as he tries to evade the employees' continued attempts to corral him. The gathered crowd of commuters reacted in horror and amusement, with some laughing at the farcical scene and others reacting in horror while they dodged away from the man's naked theatrics. At one point the man staggers into the open doors of a packed subway car waiting at the station, and with screams straphangers pour out onto the platform from another door until the man stumbles out himself. The scene comes as chaos has become commonplace throughout New York City's subways, and random acts of violence and depravity have left residents wondering what the police are doing to keep them safe. Footage from the Union Square station in downtown Manhattan showed an unidentified man wearing nothing but a right sock sprawled on his back on the ground as an MTA employee tries to restrain him The scene comes as chaos has become commonplace throughout New York City's subways, and random acts of violence and depravity have left residents wondering what the police are doing to keep them safe The man eventually breaks free and begins running errantly across the platform, circling a column and even doing a sort of freestyle breakdance across the floor as he tries to evade the employees' continued attempts to corral him It is unclear when the naked man caused the scene at the Union Square station, but his appearance was only the latest in a string of deprave incidents to plague the subway in 2022. Days ago on September 20, a longtime JFK airport employee was viciously attacked on her way to work at the Howard Beach subway station in Queens. Elizabeth Gomes, 33, was left nearly blind in one eye after a Waheed Foster, 41, threw her into a wall and proceeded to savagely punch her and kick her in the head in a completely unprovoked attack. And on September 1, a 21-year-old visiting from St. Louis was hoodwinked and then raped by a man offering to help her find her way through the Times Square subway station. The woman was at the hub at the 42nd Street and Eighth Avenue station around 3am when her attacker showed up. The man initially struck up a conversation and said he was going to help show her around the station, but then raped her after leading her to the end of a platform near a tunnel, according to the NYPD. Police were nowhere in sight as a stark naked man caused a scene on a packed New York City subway platform, leaving MTA employees struggling to contain the raving man themselves The naked man gathers himself on the floor of a Union Square Station subway platform MTA employees struggle to control the out-of-control naked man as he causes chaos in a crowd of commuters The naked man clings to a column in hopes of staying free from the clutches of MTA employees Though the NYPD has reported a nearly 12 percent drop in homicides in 2022, cops reported an eight percent jump in 911 calls related to emotionally or mentally disturbed people, according to the New York Daily News. In total the NYPD received 131,199 such calls through the end of September - about 500 per day - an increase from 128,488 over the same period last year. Robberies have also spiked 37 percent, and grand larceny is up 43 percent. 'People seem far more afraid of random attacks,' former NYPD officer Eugene ODonnell told the Daily News. 'And people are not always rational about what they fear. It's a cliche, but it's the truth.' 'A small number of subway passengers might be pushed on the tracks. But it's powerful to riders who sense there's no safety net,' said O'Donnell, who is now a professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in NYC. The naked man stumbles towards the open door of a packed subway car as commuters look on At one point the man staggers into the open doors of a packed subway car waiting at the station, and with screams straphangers pour out onto the platform from another door until the man stumbles out himself Some reacted in horrors as the naked man entered the car, others simply stood by, unmoved The naked man emerges back onto the subway platform after emptying the car with his naked antics Though Mayor Eric Adams vowed to crack down on subway violence after the disturbed Frank James, 61, travelled to NYC and wounded 10 people while shooting up a Brooklyn subway car, many residents feel he has fallen short on that promise. 'Our city needs major help. We're going through a lot here,' said Gomes after the Queens platform assault. 'I remember hearing that they would have cops posted on platforms, riding the trains, cops down in a subway. Mayor Adams said especially in the subway.' 'Every day is an incident in the subway,' she said. 'What happened to all these police officer they said they will have there to protect us? There's like nobody to be found. I don't understand.' 'Obviously, the government or nobody is doing anything for us.' Milenio news outlet reported that the gunmen were trying to abduct At least one person was killed and six were injured during a broad daylight shootout between soldiers and Jalisco New Generation Cartel gunmen who tried to kidnap a businessman at an upscale mall in the western Mexican city of Zapopan on Sunday. The assailants were armed with military-style rifles and got into a gun battle with their target's bodyguards, Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said during his daily press briefing Monday. Milenio news outlet reported that the attackers attempted to abduct a tequila distillery owner. The outlet identified the wounded as Cirilo Gonzalez, 45, who was shot in the right buttocks, and Ivan Villalobos, 30, who was shot in the abdomen and right leg. Karla Plascenia, 19, was shot in the right arm. A 45-year-old man identified as Luis Villareal, 45, suffered a gunshot wound near the shoulder and Antonio Hernandez was shot in the right knee. One of the wounded victims received treatment at Militar Hospital. Four others were hospitalized at Puerto de Hierro Hospital. One of victims was being heavily guarded by the military. 'It was a confrontation, very widespread and very unfortunate, according to the preliminary report they wanted to kidnap a person and the man's bodyguards confronted the group that wanted to kidnap him,' Lopez Obrador said. Gunmen flee Plaza Landmark in Zapopan, Mexico, during a shootout with the military after allegedly failing to kidnap the owner of a tequila distillery at the upscale mall Sunday. At least one person was shot dead and six people were wounded, authorities said A man, who according to authorities was employed as a bodyguard, was found dead inside a vehicle near the mall in Zapopan, Mexico, where gunmen reportedly tried to abduct a businessman before engaging the military in a shootout Sunday A sixth person suffered a sprained foot and was not hospitalized. A man, believed to be a bodyguard, was found dead in a car near the shopping center, according to Jalisco State Attorney General Joaquin Mendez. Videos recorded by residents and mall visitors showed the gunmen totting military-style rifles and exchanging gunfire. A man is seen holding his gun and running into an SUV while a woman was on the ground lying on top of a child inside the mall's main floor. Additional footage shows a gunman sitting on the driver's side of a vehicle and unleashing a hail of bullets. An armed man (lower right) runs to a SUV while gunmen carrying military rifles (top right) fire shots at the military A woman lies on top of a child to shield her from gunfire during a shootout between gunmen and the military at Plaza Landmark, a mall in the western Mexico city of Zapopan Plaza Landmark, a mall in the western Mexican city of Zapopan, was the site of a gun battle Sunday afternoon between Jalisco New Generation gunmen and the military after cartel henchmen attempted to kidnap the owner of a tequila distillery Moments later, he and the driver of another SUV speed away, but leave behind two of their cohorts. The men gather themselves and take off running as the soldiers return fire. Authorities recovered bulletproof vests with the name of a criminal organization, which has not been revealed. Jalisco is home to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, recognized by the DEA as the most powerful criminal organization in Mexico and one of the top two smugglers of drugs into the United States, alongside the Sinaloa Cartel, which was co-founded by Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman. The gang has been riven by fighting between warring factions in Guadalajara metropolitan area for years. A gunmen aims his rifle at a target and fires several shots before fleeing the scene of Sunday's mall shootout with the military in Zapopan, Mexico The Mexican military sets up a perimeter outside Plaza Landmark in Zapopan, Mexico, on Sunday Two gunmen are left behind by their cohorts after a shootout with the military at a mall in Zapopan, Mexico, on Sunday The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is headed by Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera and is wanted by the U.S. government. A reward of $10 million is being offered for information leading to his arrest and/or conviction. El Mencho's American-born daughter, Jessica Oseguera, was released from a California prison in March, after serving 25 months at a low-security federal prison. She pleaded guilty in March 2021 to laundering money for the criminal organization. El Mencho's son, Ruben 'El Menchito' Oseguera, is currently in U.S. custody facing gun and drugs charges that could land him in jail for more than 15 years. Authorities considered him the heir to the cartel's throne and was the organization's second-in-command prior to being arrested by Mexican security forces in June 2015. He was extradited to Washington in February 2020. President Joe Biden left for Puerto Rico on Monday morning to look at the devastation caused by Hurricane Fiona and to announce $60million in recovery aide for island ravaged by powerful storms. The president left on Air Force One with First Lady Jill for the island where at least 100,000 people still don't have power after two weeks. On Wednesday he heads to Florida where officials are still taking measure of the massive impacts of Hurricane Ian, with the death toll already climbing to 87. 'I'm heading to Puerto Rico because they haven't been taken very good care of,' Biden said as he departed the White House to begin his journey. 'They've been trying like hell to catch up from the last hurricane,' he added. 'I want to see the state of affairs today and make sure we push everything we can.' 'I'm heading to Puerto Rico because they haven't been taken very good care of,' President Joe Biden said as he departed to visit the island to see damage by Hurricane Fiona. He is being accompanied by first lady Jill Biden (back right) A flooded street is seen after the passage of hurricane Fiona in Salinas, Puerto Rico, on September 19, 2022. President Joe Biden visits the island Monday, and plans to visit Florida Wednesday to view storm damage from Hurricane Ian He is being joined by first lady Jill Biden and FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell on the trip. 'Our hearts, to state the obvious it can't go without saying are heavy from the devastating hurricane and storms in Puerto Rico, Florida, and South Carolina,' Biden said Saturday in D.C. at an event for the Congressional Black Caucus. 'We owe Puerto Rico a hell of a lot more than they've already gotten,' he said. He plans to announce $60 million in aid, with funds drawn from the already enacted infrastructure law, to 'shore up levees, strengthen flood walls, and create a new flood warning system to help Puerto Rico become better prepared for future storms,' Reuters reported. The funds are a fraction of what lawmakers will be seeking for an overall emergency relief package, with Florida driving the push for relief. Fiona knocked out power to much of the island. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm says power has been restored to 90 per cent of the island. That leaves about 137,000 without power on an island with 1.5 million customers and 3.2 million people. Biden will continue his twin trips by viewing devastation on the western coast of Florida Ian ravaged Fort Myers. The devastation has prompted a look back at the decision of county officials to delay evacuation by a day The storm has brought a focus on the ability of Biden and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to work together during the recovery phase Former President Donald Trump famously tossed rolls of paper towel into a San Juan crowd during his 2017 visit after Hurricane Maria devastated the island's infrastructure Biden also has plans to visit Florida on Wednesday 'We see what you're going through, and we're with you,' Biden said. The last U.S. president to visit the island was Donald Trump, who clashed with Democratic elected officials on the island, tossed rolls of paper towel into a San Juan crowd during a 2017 visit after Hurricane Maria walloped the island. Florida's two GOP senators, Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, took to the airwaves Sunday to press for funding, although Rubio was forced to defend his vote against emergency funding to respond to Hurricane Sandy when it devastated New York and parts of the Northeast. On Sunday, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio spoke of the massive devastation in Fort Myers, appearing on ABC's 'This Week.' 'I don't think it has a comparison, not in Florida,' he said. 'Fort Myers Beach no longer exists,' said Rubio, who has served as senator of the Sunshine State since 2011. 'It'll have to be rebuilt,' he continued. 'It'll be something different. It was a slice of old Florida that you can't recapture.' Two burglars who stabbed a cannabis farmer to death during a botched attempt to snatch nearly 100,000 of drugs have been jailed for life. Shaddai Smith, 32, and Jason Sebran, 38, were found guilty of murdering 21-year-old Renato Geci and wounding his brother Vilson Geci, 29, after they broke into a house in Hounslow, west London, on March 22 last year. The Old Bailey heard that at least seven men went to a property on Granville Street after they learned of a 'sophisticated' base where 200 cannabis plants were being grown with an estimated value of 95,000. Today, the two killers were handed life sentences with a minimum term of 19 years. They were also jailed for six years for wounding and three more for burglary which run concurrent to their life sentences. Jurors heard that Sebran had no remorse about attempting to burgle the Albanian's property. 'It's not like I'm coming into someone's house and nicking your TV and your video - it's cannabis,' he told officers. 'They shouldn't be doing it in the first place so I ain't got no morals about taking it.' Renato Geci (pictured) was murdered during a botched attempt to snatch almost 100,000 of drugs from a cannabis factory Shaddai Smith (left), 32, and Jason Sebran (right), 38, were found guilty of murdering 21-year-old Mr Geci and wounding his brother Vilson Geci, 29, during the raid But prosecutor Crispin Aylett KC said: 'All the same, those men were not acting in the public interest. Instead they were in it for money. 'An expert has suggested that the potential value of the cannabis could have been as much as 95,000.' Judge Howard Crowson said that even though Smith delivered the fatal wound with a kitchen knife, Sebran provided 'assistance and encouragement', having restrained and stabbed Mr Geci with a screwdriver. The judge told them: 'In the event of a confrontation you were prepared to use lethal force to escape capture. 'I am satisfied the intent was to kill, although the intent was only formed a short time before the fatal blow.' The judge also noted the 'profound' effect on the victim's family. The court heard that Smith and Sebran climbed through the bathroom window after climbing a ladder but soon found out that the Albanian brothers were home. The eldest brother came to see what was going on but was confronted by the burglars who he believes sprayed him in the face with acid. Forensic investigators at the scene on Granville Avenue following the botched burglary attempt in March, 2021 Mr Aylett told jurors that a violent struggle broke out with Smith grabbing a knife from the kitchen and Sebran armed with a screwdriver. 'Renato was stabbed to death with the knife as well as being stabbed with the screwdriver,' he said. 'As for Vilson, he was stabbed in the thigh with the knife and he also sustained a significant number of other injuries, albeit that most of them were fairly superficial.' The killers fled back out through a window and went to ground. After his arrest, Smith, from Romford, admitted going to burgle the house and claimed he had come under attack. Meanwhile Sebran, from Essex, told police that someone else had gone into the house while he waited outside in his car. The court was told the pair had learned the premises on Granville Street (pictured) were being used as part of a 'sophisticated' operation involving the cultivation of what prosecutors say was up to 95,000 of cannabis However, Vilson Geci's description of one attacker's tattoos matched letters and numbers on Sebran's arms showing the names and birthdays of his two children. The older brother also made a victim impact statement, which was read out in court, about how much he and his family missed their youngest, Renato. In it, he said: '[As] an older brother my duty in this world was to protect him. 'Renato I tried so hard if only I could turn back the clock. 'Nobody could accept the fate that had been dealt us. 'We could not comprehend that the youngest of our household was not going to be physically present anymore. 'I feel his absence in every breath I take, every step I take. 'We the Geci family have loved you baby Renato from the first beat of your heart until they stopped it.' Smith and Sebran were handed life sentences at the Old Bailey (pictured) today where the judge ruled they were prepared to use 'lethal force' to escape capture Jurors were told that both men had pleaded guilty to burglary but said they believed the premises to be unoccupied at the time. Detective Inspector Garth Hall, from Scotland Yard, said: 'Smith and Sebran's claims that they believed the house they were entering was empty and that their intention was only to steal cannabis plants have been disproved by the jury. 'Both men had ample opportunity to leave the property when they found Renato and another man inside - however, they were driven by greed and the profit they saw they could make from stealing the cannabis plants. 'They decided to attack Renato, using lethal force as they overpowered him, and causing multiple injuries to their second victim before fleeing empty-handed.' Four others have pleaded guilty to being party to a conspiracy to burgle and one has denied the charge, jurors heard. Leohner has been charged with kidnapping, reckless driving, using a minor as a shield, resisting with violence, and other charges The man was eventually tasered and bitten by a K-9 before the child was taken from his arms and reunited with his mother Leohner in body-cam footage can be seen holding his one-year-old close to his chest as deputies close-in on him The man took the one-year-old while in possession of a gun and is accused of driving recklessly with the baby on his lap A man is in police custody after video shows him allegedly using his one-year-old child as a shield during a recent incident involving law enforcement in Flagler County, Florida. According to arrest records, Brandon Matthew Douglas Leohner, 27, was arrested on September 27 on multiple charges, including resisting an officer during an arrest, aggravated assault, child neglect, kidnapping, and using a child as a human shield. Shocking video of the incident released by law enforcement shows Leohner holding the baby in front of his chest as deputies with the Flagler County Sheriff's Office approached him. According to a release, the incident began around 6 pm when they received a call about a possible child abduction involving a one-year-old. The Flagler County Sheriff's Office initially responded to a call describing how Leohner took the child while armed with a handgun, and then drove away with the youngster in his lap. A screengrab from the video shows Leohner holding his one-year-old child in front of him as deputies approach him with a K-9 and tasers at the ready The man has been charged with reckless driving, child abduction, and other counts related to the incident A short time later, deputies located a man driving recklessly, speeding into oncoming traffic and driving through medians. Officials attempted to stop the man but he sped off from the scene, according to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office. The 27-year-old eventually pulled into a McDonald's parking lot and jumped out of his car with the one-year-old in his hands. Bodycam footage shows Leohner holding the child close to his chest just outside the drive-thru window as at least three deputies approach him. Leohner is accused of kidnapping his son from his mother's home and driving recklessly, holding the child on his lap as he sped through traffic and evaded arrest One of the deputies seen in the footage is holding onto a K-9 officer. Law enforcement officials can be heard repeatedly telling Leohner to place the child on the ground, which he does not do. 'Put the baby down, put the kid down,' yells one deputy. Leohner continues to ignore the law enforcement officials requests. Just seconds before being tasered, Leohner held his innocent one-year-old close to his chest As one deputy yells 'get on the ground now,' the deputy whose body-cam footage was released can be seen pulling out his taser and pointing it at the man. The child, dressed only in a diaper and a top, is held onto with one arm feet from the ground. Leohner continues to hold him in front of his chest and head to protect himself from deputies. The deputy wearing the body cam footage successfully sets off his taser at the man, bringing him to the ground mere inches in front of a car in the drive-thru line. Deputies quickly rush in to take the child from Leohner's arms as the baby cries out 'dada.' Photos from Brandon Leohner's Facebook page show him with his one-year-old child before the kidnapping attempt and his arrest on September 27 The man somehow evades deputies and is able to run away before he is eventually tackled to the ground while still inside the McDonald's parking lot. Video of the arrest ends with a K-9 biting the man as he screams out for them to stop. Deputies return his request by telling him to stop resisting arrest. 'Our deputies did everything they could to quickly rescue this child safely from a madman and apprehend the suspect. Fortunately, the child was not hurt and was quickly reunited with his mother,' said Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. The one-year-old was safely reunited with his mother and was not harmed, officials said 'Here is a case of a domestic situation turning violent, putting a one-year-old child and innocent drivers in danger. Deputies were confronted with a very chaotic situation and a very combative individual that was putting his child at risk by using the child as a shield.' The 27-year-old was taken to a nearby hospital for his injuries and was later transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. Leohner is currently awaiting trial without bail. Police are still looking for a murderer who beat a disabled man to death after he escaped prison for the second time in 14 years. Lee Nevins, 39, is serving a life sentence after he was found guilty of brutally killing Lee Jobling, 20, in his own home in an unprovoked attack in 2006 while high on drugs and alcohol. The convicted killer, from Gateshead, has been on the run since last Tuesday after failing to return to HMP Sudbury, an open prison in Derbyshire, after being out on day release. Lee Nevins, 39, (pictured) who was jailed for life in 2006, has been on the run since last Tuesday after failing to return to HMP Sudbury, an open prison in Derbyshire This afternoon a spokeswoman for Derbyshire Police said: 'Enquiries are still ongoing, no arrests have yet been made.' Nevins was jailed for life in 2006 for the sadistic 2006 slaying of disabled Mr Jobling but later escaped in 2008, just two years into his sentence. He had been taken from Frankland Prison in County Durham to Sunderland Royal Hospital with an injured hand before he went on the run for a week before he was caught in Scotland. An investigation conducted at the time was highly critical of bungling prison staff. Now the violent criminal is once again at large after escaping prison on September 27 - nearly 16 years after being convicted of murder. Nevins - who has a string of convictions for other violent attacks - was on temporary licence but failed to return to the category D prison in Derbyshire. Derbyshire Police say he has known links to Gateshead, Chester-le-Street, and Northumberland. On Friday a Prison Service spokesperson said: 'HMP Sudbury is working with police to recapture Lee Nevins quickly and on capture he faces longer behind bars.' HMP Sudbury is an open prison in Derbyshire. Nevins did not return after a period of temporary leave on Tuesday 27 September HMP Sudbury in Ashbourne is a Category D prison, meaning it has a more relaxed regime and houses prisoners defined as 'those who can be reasonably trusted not to try and escape, and are given the privilege of an open prison'. Along with accomplice Mark Lang, Nevins killed 20-year-old Lee in an unprovoked attack at his home on Gatesheads Leam Lane estate. The pair forced their way into Mr Jobling's home where they mocked him for being disabled on April 8, 2006. High on drink and drugs, the pair, who did not even know Lee, failed to leave with the other guests, but stayed at the flat, where they launched their prolonged attack in the early hours. Lang and Nevins taunted and mocked Lee before repeatedly punching and kicking him in the head. Lee Jobling (pictured above) died after a brutal attack from Nevins and his accomplice Mark Lang When paramedics forced their way into Lees home they found him lying unconscious. He died in hospital around three weeks later. Nevins, then 23, of Leam Lane, and Lang, 24, of Harlow Green, Gateshead, were eventually charged with murder. They pleaded not guilty but were convicted after a two week trial, at Newcastle Crown Court, during which both killers each tried to blame the other. Judge John Milford jailed them for life, ordering that Nevins, who had previous convictions for violence, serve a minimum of 17 years and Lang at least 16. The horror killing came just six years after Mr Jobling overcame the odds to survive a childhood blighted by tragedy and injury. He was just six when his mum Shirley, who was divorced from his dad, died suddenly from a brain haemorrhage. Mr Jobling and his two brothers went to live with his aunt Angela and Gary Knotts at their home in Leam Lane. Convicted murderer Lee Nevins (left) is on the run for a second time, after absconding from an open prison in Derbyshire. He jailed for life for the brutal killing Lee Jobling (right) At 15-years-old Mr Jobling then suffered a serious head injury after falling from a bridge while out playing with friends. He suffered a brain injury and spent almost two weeks in a coma. The accident left Lee walking with a limp and suffering from memory problems. With the support of his family, Lee battled on, however, was not well enough to work in the months before he died. He had also just moved to his own flat, not far from his aunt's home. Last week Mrs Knotts spoke of her anger at learning her nephews killer had escaped again. The 63-year-old said: 'Its an insult to Lee. I just feel as if hes done this awful crime and hes not faced up to what hes done and thinks he should be free. 'Its just horrible because you cant think of anything else. 'They are saying to us that hes not a danger to the public and hes probably not to someone who can defend themselves. But to someone who is vulnerable he is. 'The police dont know where he is, but they say he has associates in the Northumbria area. 'They are saying hes worked hard so hes in an open prison. But they know hes an absconder. They are saying they are doing all they can to make sure he doesnt get out of the country.' Russian TV journalist Marina Ovsyannikova who became famous for staging an on-air protest against Russia's war in Ukraine has been put on Moscow's wanted list after escaping from pre-trial house arrest. Ovsyannikova, 44, was put under house arrest in August and faces up to 10 years in prison if found guilty of spreading fake news about Russia's armed forces under a law introduced earlier this year. The case relates to a protest in July when she stood on a river embankment opposite the Kremlin and held up a poster calling President Vladimir Putin a murderer and his soldiers fascists. But state-run news outlet RT reported this weekend that she had somehow fled her accommodation with her young daughter in tow, and their current whereabouts are unknown. 'Last night, my ex-wife left the place that the court assigned her for house arrest and, together with my 11-year-old daughter, fled in an unknown direction,' her ex-husband was quoted as saying by RT - a Russian media company for whom he is a prominent producer. Ovsyannikova, who was born in Ukraine, came to international prominence in March by walking out in front of studio cameras during an evening news broadcast on the flagship Channel One with a placard that read: 'NO WAR. STOP THE WAR. DO NOT BELIEVE THE PROPAGANDA. THEY'RE LYING TO YOU HERE. RUSSIANS AGAINST WAR.' In this file photo taken on August 11, 2022 Marina Ovsyannikova, a journalist who became known internationally after protesting against the Russian military action in Ukraine during a prime-time news broadcast on state television, stands inside a defendants' box during a court session over charges of 'discrediting' the Russian army, in Moscow. Ovsyannikova stormed a live TV broadcast to denounce the war in Ukraine, just 10 days after a law was passed which made 'dissemination of false information about Russian armed forces' an offence punishable by a decade or more of prison Ovsyannikova appears in court accused of 'discrediting' the Russian army fighting in Ukraine over her remarks outside a Moscow court earlier this month in support of opposition activist Ilya Yashin, in Moscow on July 28, 2022 Ovsyannikova's name was today added to the Russian interior ministry's online list of fugitives from justice. Russia passed a law against discrediting the armed forces and the spreading of 'false information' on March 4, eight days after invading Ukraine. Article 207.3 of the law states that 'public dissemination of deliberately false information about the use of the armed forces of the Russian Federation' is punishable by fines and prison sentences of up to three, five, 10 or 15 years, depending on the circumstances and on whether the offence had 'serious consequences'. Ten days after the law was passed, Ovsyannikova - a prominent Russian journalist and television producer who had for years worked for the flagship state-owned Channel One - leapt into view during a live broadcast and brandished a sign decrying the war in Ukraine. There were fears the journalist would face harsh punishment immediately after the now infamous protest, but she was spared jail time and was instead hit with a meagre 210 fine. However, the journalist refused to remain quiet and set about staging further protests in spite of the government's crack down on anti-war activists. In July, she demonstrated alone near the Kremlin holding a placard which criticised the war in Ukraine and labelled the warmongering Russian president a 'killer', and was also detained after voicing her support for jailed Russian opposition figure Ilya Yashin. She was fined the equivalent of hundreds of pounds for each perceived breach of the Kremlin's new law, and in August a judge saw it fit to have her placed under house arrest pending a wider trial. Yet images posted to the journalist's official Facebook account in September showed her sat in a courtroom, having doodled a sign which read 'no to mobilisation'. 'I, like millions of mothers in Russia, did not give birth to my son for him to go to war. All human life is precious. We gave birth to our sons to make scientific discoveries, fly to the stars, design new cities, build houses and bridges,' the social media post read. 'Not as cannon fodder for this criminal war.' Images posted to the journalist's official Facebook account in September showed what appeared to be a still from security footage of her in a courtroom, having doodled a sign which read 'no to mobilisation' Ovsyannikova was offered asylum by France earlier this year but rejected the prospect, stating in June that she wanted to return to Russia in order to fight for custody of her two children In the weeks following her original protest in March, the journalist was offered jobs by a number of prominent European media companies and briefly worked with German outlet Die Welt. She was also offered asylum by France but rejected the prospect, stating she wanted to return to Russia in order to fight for custody of her two children. 'My son told me I've destroyed my family life... the consequences of my protest are snowballing every day,' she said in June, before adding she thinks her former partner Ivan - also a state television employee - may be acting under pressure from the Kremlin. 'I'm in limbo. I live day by day... I built a wonderful house in Moscow that I was hoping to spend the rest of my life in,' the producer said. 'Now I'm a stranger in a stranger's land.' It is unclear how Ovsyannikova and her 11-year-old daughter escaped house arrest or where they may have fled. Three men and a woman have been arrested after traveling up to 50 miles to loot one of Florida's most hard-hit areas during Hurricane Ian. The shameless individuals, aged between 20 and 33, were booked for ransacking devastated homes and businesses on Fort Myers Beach while they suffered in the wake of the raging torrent. All four looters were arrested on September 29 - but documents reveal that they were released after posting whopping $35,000 bonds each. It comes after a gang of five people were filmed in handcuffs on the ground for stealing from Fort Myers Beach. Lee County Sheriff's Office were unable to confirm if they were the same set of looters. The mounting death toll from Ian's wrath currently stands at 85, and 'ground zero' Fort Myers is currently one of Florida's most decimated neighborhoods as rescue teams desperately try and find survivors amid the rubble. Brandon Mauricio Araya and Steve Eduardo Sanchez Araya, both 20, were arrested for looting and grand theft during a state of emergency. They are both registered as living in Cape Coral Omar Mejia Ortiz and Valerie Celeste Salcedo Mena were both booked in Lee County Last week, NBC2 reporter Gage Goulding captured the moment five looters were handcuffed on video - as the opportunistic rebels kept their eyes on the ground during the embarrassing arrest The oldest looting suspect is Omar Mejia Ortiz, 33. He lives in Immokalee - meaning he traveled at least 50 miles to Fort Myers beach to ransack the ruinous shops and homes after Hurricane Ian's wrath, reports Florida Jolt. Valerie Celeste Salcedo Mena, 26, made her way from her home in Cape Coral, which is at least a 40 minute drive to the Florida coastline. The youngest two suspects who were arrested for looting seem to be related - Brandon Mauricio Araya and Steve Eduardo Sanchez Araya. The young men, both aged 20, traveled from the same address in Cape Coral before finding themselves booked in Lee County. All four suspects were booked for the same crime: Burglary to an unoccupied structure during a state of emergency. The two Araya men and Mena were also arrested for grand theft, accusing them of stealing items worth between $750 and $5,000. Ortiz instead was arrested for petit theft - with a price range from $150 to $750, however his bond for the additional crimes was the same as the other three alleged looters. All four suspected criminals will face a hearing on October 31 at Lee County's Circuit Court. Last week, NBC2 reporter Gage Goulding captured the moment five looters were handcuffed on video - as the opportunistic rebels kept their eyes on the ground during the embarrassing arrest. In a menacing warning to looters, Ron DeSantis said that Floridians would not be scared to evoke their second amendment if they caught an opportunist looter in their midst. Lee County Sheriff's Office were unable to confirm if they were the same set of looters The Florida Gov told a press conference in St. Augustine, he said: 'Don't even think about looting, don't even think about taking advantage of people in this vulnerable situation. 'I can tell you, in the state of Florida, you never know what may be lurking behind somebodys home. 'I would not want to chance that if I were you, given that were a Second Amendment state. 'At the end of the day, we are not going to allow lawlessness to take advantage of this situation.' DeSantis warned that robbers may try to arrive on boats in a bid to ransack people's homes. The state's Attorney General Ashley Moody also said: 'Floridians displaced by Hurricane Ian have enough to worry about without having to fear theft or burglary at the hands of offenders previously arrested for crimes during the state of emergency. 'These unscrupulous offenders must remain locked up where they can no longer prey on vulnerable Floridians. 'I strongly urge state attorneys to seek pretrial detention to the fullest extent possible for any criminal heartless enough to victimize Floridians during this extremely challenging time.' And after seeing the video of the looters on the ground, Moody added: 'I have asked state attorneys to seek the longest pretrial detention possible to keep them locked up so they cannot commit new crimes.' Florida Gov DeSantis said: 'Don't even think about looting, don't even think about taking advantage of people in this vulnerable situation' Attorney General Ashley Moody also made a warning to looters: 'These unscrupulous offenders must remain locked up where they can no longer prey on vulnerable Floridians' Looting will not be tolerated in Floridaespecially during this State of Emergency. pic.twitter.com/oJLgIrHOYH AG Ashley Moody (@AGAshleyMoody) October 1, 2022 Meanwhile, the desperate search for Hurricane Ian survivors continued this morning as the devastating death toll reached at least 85 - after the torrent caused an estimated $60 billion in damage. Insurers assessing the damage to properties ransacked by the flooding and winds are bracing for a multi-billion dollar hit after Florida's streets were turned into rivers and houses were engulfed by the raging Category 4 storm. Decimated coastal towns and submerged homes are only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the catastrophic loss caused by the violent weather front last week. So far, more than 1,600 locals have been rescued. The current number of fatalities is only expected to grow as rescue teams dive in and assess the shattered towns submerged by Ian's fury - while 600,000 people are still in darkness after the hurricane obliterated power lines. Depleted survivors on 'ground zero' Fort Myers, which was obliterated by the 10-foot storm surge, were forced to escape the aftermath on foot, while clear up teams rummaged street by street though the shocking debris. The eye-watering projection includes estimated wind, storm surge, and inland flood losses resulting from Ian's landfalls in both Florida and South Carolina, risk modeling firm Verisk said. A wind blown camper-trailer rests on a passenger car along a highway in Punta Gorda, Florida Decimated coastal towns and submerged homes are only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the catastrophic loss caused by the violent weather front last week Anthony Bourdain never stopped drinking despite overcoming a drug addiction and 'hated' who he'd become by the time he took his own life in 2018, the author of a controversial new biography about the late TV chef has claimed. Bourdain killed himself in France in June 2018 while filming for his CNN show Parts Unknown. He had just broken up with his girlfriend Asia Argento and was heartbroken over photographs of her with another man in Rome. Bourdain's final days are revisited Down And Out In Paradise: The Life of Anthony Bourdain, a controversial new biography by journalist Charles Leerhsen. Bourdain's brother Christopher has tried to stop the book from being published. In an interview with The Guardian to promote the new work, Leerhsen told how Bourdain had managed to overcome drug addiction but drank heavily until his death. Bourdain killed himself in France in June 2018 while filming for his CNN show Parts Unknown. He is shown the previous year at an event Anthony Bourdain, photographed days before his death in June 2018, 'never stopped drinking despite overcoming a drug addiction He said he had become someone he 'hated' and rather than correcting his behavior, chose a 'permanent solution to a temporary problem'. Down And Out In Paradise: The Life of Anthony Bourdain will be released on October 11 'He became someone that he hated. By the time he realized that, he was too physically exhausted to straighten things out. 'He thought it simpler to seek what is famously called a permanent solution to a temporary problem. 'Recovery, you might say, was one of the few things he couldnt go all the way with. 'If he did something, he did it all out, whether it was comic books as a kid or fascination with the JFK assassination. But he pulled up short with recovery; he never stopped drinking,' Leerhsen said. He said he was motivated to write the book to understand why a man with what appeared to be a happy life committed suicide. 'Its an age-old story of being careful what you wish for, of dealing with success and love in oceanic proportion.' Leerhsen's book has been met with rage from the Bourdain family. The author describes Bourdain's relationship with Asia Argento as a 'classic adolescent case of the boy wanting the girl more than the girl wants to be wanted' The TV chef's daughter Ariane was 11 at the time of his death. He had all but 'vanished' from her life, according to the new biography His brother Christopher appealed to publisher Simon and Schuster twice to try and stop its release, insisting that much of the book is inaccurate. The publishing house is pressing on with the October 11 release date, despite his protests. 'Every single thing he writes about relationships and interactions within our family as kids and as adults he fabricated or got totally wrong,' Christopher told The New York Times in a recent interview. Leerhsen claims that Bourdain's romance with Argento was a 'a classic, adolescent-sounding case of the boy wanting the girl more than the girl wants to be wanted'. 'The more he presses on her, the more she pulls back,' he said. In their final text exchange, she told him to stop 'busting her balls' after she was photographed with French journalist Hugo Clement in Rome. Bourdain with his ex-wife Ottavia Busia-Bourdain. The book describes her as his confidante towards the end of his life Argento did not cooperate with the author. She has spoken in the past of how the world unfairly blamed her for Bourdain's suicide, telling DailyMail.com in an exclusive 2018 interview that she didn't do anything wrong by cheating on him because he also 'cheated on her'. 'It wasn't a problem for us,' she said at the time. Argento has since moved on with Italian MMA fighter Michele Titi Martignoni, who is 20 years her junior. The book also delves into Bourdain's relationship with his ex-wife, Ottavia Busia-Bourdain, who Leerhsen describes as his confidante. She is not fighting the book's release. Ukrainian forces are deploying a devastating mega sniper rifle in their battle against Vladimir Putin's invading troops. At over six-feet in length, the Ukrainian-made Snipex Alligator is bigger than even some of the marksmen pulling the trigger of the 55-pound rifle. The huge weapon fires rounds that can penetrate armour that is around half-an-inch thick from a distance of a mile away, making it a highly effective weapon against Russian armour and soldiers alike. At over six-feet in length, the Ukrainian-made Snipex Alligator is bigger than even some of the marksmen pulling the trigger of the 55-pound rifle. Pictured: A Ukrainian soldier poses with two of the sniper rifles Pictured: A Ukrainian soldier takes aim down the sight of a Snipex Alligator sniper rifle - the mega sniper rifle Ukrainian forces are using in their battle against Putin's invading troops The Snipex Alligator Calibre: 14.5x114mm Weight: 55 pounds Length: 6ft 5in Rounds: 5 Bullet speed: 980 m/s Effective firing range: 2,000 yards Maximum bullet flight: 7,000 yards Manufacturer: XADO-Holding Ltd Advertisement The Snipex Alligator is a bolt-action rifle manufactured by XADO-Holding Ltd - a multinational company with headquarters in Germany, the Netherlands and Ukraine. It fires huge 14.5x114mm rounds through the air at around 980 metres per-second, and is capable of penetrating the side of a Russian BTR-80 armoured vehicle with a single bullet from a mile away. The Alligator was designed to be used against both moving and stationary targets, including vehicles, communications and air-defence systems. It is also effective in taking out parked aircraft, fixed defensive positions and dugouts. The detachable box magazine holds five rounds of ammunition - which is typically fired from a heavy machine gun. In order for the Alligator to be usable by ground troops, recoil from the rifle is supressed by a four- to five-chamber muzzle brake, while a heavily padded rifle stock was installed to protect the shooter. And while the huge sniper rifle may sound unwieldy, it packs a punch against enemy armour that few weapons can, while also being mobile enough to be carried. This all means that Ukraine's solders have at their disposal a devastating weapon against Moscow's slow-moving personnel carriers, thousands of which have been destroyed by various means since Putin launched his invasion in February. The Alligator was first revealed to the world in June 2020 on Snipex's Facebook page, and in July the first demonstration video was released on YouTube - which showed the massive rifle striking targets at a great distance. Later that same year, the Armed Forces of Ukraine unofficially adopted the weapon, and officially adopted it into its arsenal in March 2021. Ukraine's use of mobile weapon systems - such as the Alligator or the hand-half Javelin missile system - has meant its troops have been able to remain agile in the face of the more slow-moving Russian vehicles and tactics. Pictured: A destroyed Russian tank in the Kharkiv region The war in Ukraine has been its first outing on the battlefield. It is unclear how many Alligators are being used by Kyiv's troops against the Russian invaders, however pictures of soldiers posing next to the massive rifles have emerged online. Ukraine's use of mobile weapon systems - such as the Alligator or the hand-held Javelin missile system - has meant its troops have been able to remain agile in the face of the more slow-moving Russian vehicles and tactics. On several occasions, Kyiv's troops have successfully ambushed the Russian invaders, destroying tanks and other armoured vehicles and retreating into cover before Moscow's soldiers have even been able to react. This is seen as one of the many reasons Ukraine has so far been able to resist the Russian onslaught, and in recent months was able to launch a counter-offensive that has pushed Russian soldiers back towards their own border. Pope Francis leads the Angelus prayer from his window at the Vatican, Oct. 2. Reuters-Yonhap Pope Francis on Sunday appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin for a cease-fire, imploring him to ''stop this spiral of violence and death'' in Ukraine and denouncing the ''absurd'' risk of the ''uncontrollable'' consequences of nuclear attack as tensions sharply escalate over the war. Francis uttered his strongest plea yet about the seventh-month-old conflict, which he denounced as an ''error and a horror.'' It was the first time in public that he cited Putin's role in the war. The pontiff also called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to ''be open'' to serious peace proposals. Francis told the public, gathered in St. Peter's Square, that he was abandoning his usual religious theme for his Sunday noon remarks to concentrate his reflection on Ukraine. ''How the war is going in Ukraine has become so grave, devastating and threatening that it sparks great worry,'' Francis said. ''In fact, this terrible, inconceivable wound of humanity, instead of shrinking, continues to bleed even more, threatening to spread,'' the pope said. ''I deplore strongly the grave situation created in the last days, with further actions contrary to the principles of international law,'' Francis said, in a clear reference to Putin's illegal annexation of a large swath of eastern Ukraine. ''It, in fact, increases the risk of a nuclear escalation, to the point of fearing uncontrollable and catastrophic consequences on the world level.'' Faithful attends the Angelus, traditional Sunday's prayer, of Pope Francis, in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Oct. 2. EPA-Yonhap Advertisement King Charles today made a joke about 'temperamental' pens on his first royal engagement since the death of his mother. The monarch and the Queen Consort Camilla are in Scotland where they declared Dunfermline a new city before heading to Edinburgh for more events. Before they left Fife this afternoon the couple signed a visitors book where the King appeared to make a light-hearted reference to his recent viral tussles with pens on official engagements. Handing the writing implement to his wife he laughingly seemed to say: These things are so temperamental. The King's joke came after he was seen venting frustration over pens which leak every stinking time while signing a visitors book last month. The King was at Royal Hillsborough Castle near Belfast ahead of a service of reflection at St Annes Cathedral. While signing a book, the 73-year-old first exclaimed Oh god, Ive put the wrong date down before passing the pen to his wife Camilla, the Queen Consort, as she pointed out he had got the date wrong earlier in the day too. As he got up he looked down at his finger which had apparently been stained with ink from the fountain pen before shrieking: Oh God, I hate this. Camilla was then caught on camera saying: Oh look, its going everywhere, hang on, while holding the pen out in her right hand. It was taken away by an aide while she appeared to wipe her fingers with her other hand. In the background, the King can be heard saying: I cant bear this bloody thing! What they do, every stinking time, wiping his fingers with a paper handkerchief and leaving the camera view. Camilla then used a different pen to sign the book. It followed Charless animated scenes at St Jamess Palace, where he frantically motioned to an aide to move a pen box from his desk which was getting in his way as he went to sign the historic Proclamation declaring him King. Prince Charles today poked fun at himself by making a joke about his pen as he handed it to his wife Camilla (pictured) as they signed a visitors' book in Dunfermline after a series of recent mishaps and frustrations King Charles was again seen venting his frustration over a fountain pen in Northern Ireland last month King Charles III today paid a moving tribute to his late mother on his first public engagement with his wife since the Queen's death. His Majesty and the Queen Consort Camilla formally conferred city status on Dunfermline as part of Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee celebrations - and the monarch said the event would 'gladden my dear mother's heart, as it certainly gladdens mine'. Charles and Camilla were welcomed to Fife by community groups including a local pipe band and schoolchildren - with the King and his wife stopping to speak to crowds and shake their hands. One of those who waited to meet Charles was 91-year-old Catherine Gillian-Adams, who said she was 'thrilled to bits' her home town was now a city. Thousands gathered in Dunfermline to see the royal couple and other VIPs including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon - who was greeted by cheers and boos. But there was clapping and cries of 'God Save the King' when Charles, wearing a blue tartan kilt, arrived. His Majesty and his wife attended an official council meeting at the City Chambers where the King formally marked the conferral of city status on Dunfermline and made a short speech. It is their first joint public engagements since royal mourning ended last Tuesday. In the ceremony the King said he was 'delighted' when it was announced the town would become a city. He said he hoped people would feel a 'real sense of pride in this new chapter'. He said: 'That would, I know, gladden my dear mother's heart, as it certainly gladdens mine. As you celebrate your well-deserved status as Scotland's new City, I can only offer my warmest congratulations, and my heartfelt wishes for the years to come'. He added: 'I was delighted when, in May this year, it was announced that Dunfermline was one of the eight communities being granted City Status to mark The late Queen's Platinum Jubilee. There could be no more fitting way to mark my beloved mother's extraordinary life of service than by granting this honour to a place made famous by its own long and distinguished history, and by the indispensable role it has played in the life of our country. 'Now, of course, we gather to celebrate this great occasion but also to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty, whose deep love for Scotland was one of the foundations of her life'. After the ceremony they visited Dunfermline Abbey to mark its 950th anniversary, and will meet with representatives from Historic Scotland to learn about the history of the local area and conservation of the site. The Abbey is the burial place of Robert The Bruce and more of Scotland's royalty. King Charles III arrives at an official council meeting at the City Chambers in Dunfermline, Fife, to formally mark the conferral of city status on the former town King Charles III greets members of the public, who cheered his arrival and said 'God Save the King' King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla wave at an official ceremony to mark Dunfermline as a city Charles used his speech to declare: 'We gather to celebrate this great occasion but also to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty, whose deep love for Scotland was one of the foundations of her life' The letters patent confirming Dunfermline formally awarded city status First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is greeted by Lord Provost of Dunfermline Jim Leishman as she arrives at the City Chambers in Dunfermline. There were cheers and boos King Charles III and Britain's Camilla, Queen Consort are shown the grave stone of Robert the Bruce The royal couple leave Dunfermline Abbey, after a visit to mark its 950th anniversary, School children wait for the arrival of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla Children are lifted on to the shoulders of their parents as they watch the festivities in Dunfermline Downing Street denies Liz Truss told King Charles to skip Cop27 in Egypt No 10 today said it was 'ridiculous' to claim Liz Truss told the King to avoid the COP27 event in Egypt next month. The PM's spokesman denied she had ordered the monarch to stay away. He said: 'We have a proud record when it comes to Cop, we are forging ahead with our plans for net zero'. The monarch, who has previously called for a 'vast, military-style campaign' to fight climate change, had reportedly planned to make a speech at the meeting of world leaders in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt in November. But the Prime Minister, who also won't be attending, objected to his plans during an audience at Buckingham Palace last month. It comes amid growing suspicion that the government is planning to water down or even abandon its target of 'net zero' carbon emissions by 2050. The Palace said advice had been sought by the King and given by Miss Truss. Advertisement After the royal couple left Dunfermline city chambers, they were again shaking hands with well-wishers gathered outside as they left and went to Dunfermline Abbey, where the royal couple saw the resting place of Robert the Bruce. Bill Henderson, 71, who was was amongst the crowds who waited to greet the King and Queen Consort, told how locals were excited the town was now becoming a city Speaking about it, he said: 'It's a historic event. 'I was born just before the Queen was came to the throne, so she's been my monarch my whole life. It's just exciting. 'And especially a King Charles coming back to Dunfermline when King Charles I was born here, however long ago that was.' Teacher Carol Williams, 52, commented: 'It's such an honour for Dunfermline to be his first visit as the new King.' Eight places have won city status as part of the late monarch's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Dunfermline's bid for the status was based on its heritage and its historic status as an ancient seat of royal power, but also one of the fastest-growing towns in Europe. The King and his wife will also host a reception at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh on Monday to celebrate British South Asian communities. They will meet with between 200 and 300 guests of British Indian, Pakistani, Bangladesh, Sri Lankan, Nepalese, Bhutanese and Maldivian heritage from across the UK. The event will recognise the contribution many from these communities have made to the National Health Service, arts, media, education, business and the Armed Forces. Charles will also hold an investiture ceremony for a small group of local people, his first as King. The couples visit started at the City Chambers where the waiting crowd was so deep and stretched so far that it was impossible to count them. Charles, wearing the Old Stewart Tartan, and Camilla in a favourite tartan outfit by Mr Roy, were greeted by deafening cheers as they shook hands with an official line up, which included Ms Sturgeon, and a local pipe band. Accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Fife, Robert Balfour, the party proceed into the Chamber Room where The King formally marked the conferral of City status on Dunfermline Councillor Jim Leishman, the Provost of Fife, said it was a privilege that the King had chosen to take part in the ceremony so early on in his reign. Ms Sturgeon highlighted the fact that the silks that Her Late Majesty used both in her wedding and coronation gowns had been made in the old silk mill in Dunfermline. She added: It is a great honour indeed that at the start of a new era Your Majesties are here to mark this further milestone for this very special community. Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack MP, said before the ceremony: It is a huge honour for Dunfermline to be bestowed city status and will be a huge boost to the city and its people. And its a huge honour that the King and Queen have made this their first official visit together after royal mourning. The decision was taken by the late Queen personally to choose Dunfermline. Between then and now, the King has really rode into action and honoured the date. The crowds are lining a long way back, theres huge enthusiasm and lots of Union flags. King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla, hold their first joint public engagement since royal mourning ended Camilla, Queen Consort arrives at Dunfermline Abbey, with a posy of flowers Britain's King Charles III and Britain's Camilla, Queen Consort greet members of the public The King and Queen Consort formally mark the conferral of city status on the former town Eight places have become cities as part of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The former towns each made a bid for city status as part of the Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours Competition and were asked to highlight their royal associations, as well as showcase their communities and local identity. Dunfermlines bid for city status was based on its heritage and its historic status as an ancient seat of royal power but it is also one of the fastest growing towns in Europe. Before they left the couple signed a visitors book where the King appeared to make a light-hearted reference to his recent viral tussles with pens on official engagements. Handing the writing implement to his wife he laughingly seemed to say: These things are so temperamental. The King has twice been caught on camera struggling with his pen when signing official documents in recent weeks. Outside the couple headed immediately towards the cheering crowds, where among the first people they met was George Findlay, 79, from Perth. He said: His mother was my boss for several years when I was in the Royal Navy. Hes a good man and I think he will made a good king. Im just so chuffed he has taken so much time to meet everyone. Lesley McAuliffe, 60, from Dunfermline, showed Camilla her Union Flag-lined jacket. She is a wonderful Queen Consort, she said. Marian and Charlie McLaughlen also spoke to the king, Mrs McLaughlen said: I think he will embody all the best qualities of the Queen and bring something of his own to the role. Such a pleasure to meet them. The couple made the short walk down to Dunfermline Abbey, to mark its 950th anniversary. The Queen visited when it celebrated its 900th. Their Majesties met with representatives from Historic Scotland to learn about the history of the local area and conservation of the site. Dunfermline was established as the new seat of power in 1057 by King Malcolm III after he killed Macbeth. He married Margaret of Wessex who brought the Benedictine monks to Scotland and was later canonised as a saint. Dunfermline Abbey is the ancient the burial site of Kings and Queens of Scotland, including King Robert the Bruce. The couple made a point to visiting his grave and talking about the history of the abbey before meeting local community organisations and supporters. Outside they spoke to more of the crowds, including Catherine Gellan-Adamss 91, whose stylish hat was admired by the Queen Consort. We are all here because we are royalists but quite apart from that I think he is a sensible guy and his wife is a sensible lady too, she said. I think she will keep him on the straight and narrow and I told her that. And she laughed and said yes she would. Elspeth Duncan, 75, from Dunfermline said she was overjoyed at meeting the new King and Queen Consort. Remarking on the booing of Nicola Sturgeon she said: That doesnt surprise me. She thinks she is Queen of Scotland and doesn't realise how many people dislike her. We are very happy with the Royal Family we have and with the union, thank you. It came amid claims that King Charles III will not attend the Cop27 climate summit after being told to stay away by Liz Truss. The monarch was reportedly planning to make a speech at the meeting of world leaders in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, in November. But the Prime Minister, who will also not attend, objected to his plans during an audience at Buckingham Palace last month. It comes amid growing suspicion that the Government is planning to water down or even abandon its target of 'net zero' carbon emissions by 2050. The Palace said advice had been sought by the King and was given by Miss Truss. 'With mutual friendship and respect there was agreement that the King would not attend,' the Palace said. But the decision is likely to have disappointed the King, who as Prince of Wales had a long history of campaigning to reduce the effects of climate change. As heir to the throne he also had a reputation for interfering in government business, most recently expressing his distaste for the Government's plan to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda. After the death of his mother, friends insisted he will not cool on the issue of global warming. the King was greeted by pipes on St Catherine's Wynd as the monarch arrived to confer city status on Dunfermline Dunfermline Abbey ahead of the arrival on King Charles III But as monarch he is obliged to remain politically neutral, and in his address to the nation after the Queen's death, he acknowledged that 'it will no longer be possible to give so much time to the... issues for which I care so deeply'. Before his ascension to the throne last month, King Charles had indicated he would attend the 27th UN Climate Change Conference, known as Cop27, which will run from November 6 to 18. A source told the Daily Mail there had never been any firm plans for the King to go, though he has attended previously, leading to speculation he would again this year. As all foreign visits are undertaken at the request of the British Government, advice was sought by the Palace. The 'unanimous' decision, it has been suggested, is that with so many demands for the King to be deployed abroad, Cop27 would not be the 'right occasion' for his first overseas visit as sovereign. Sources highlighted his address to the nation following his mother's death, in which he stressed that he remains 'ever mindful' of his constitutional role in light of his change of circumstances. As previously highlighted by the Mail, it is understood that the environment will remain central to his work as sovereign. In 2015, he delivered the opening address at Cop21 in Paris, describing climate change as the greatest threat facing humanity. In a hard-hitting speech the King echoed Winston Churchill by calling on 'the few' to take action to save the planet, urging world leaders to commit 'trillions, not billions, of dollars'. He also delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of Cop26 in Glasgow last year, calling on world leaders to adopt a 'warlike footing' to deal with climate change. Although he will not attend Cop27 in person, it is understood he is still determined to make his presence felt, leaving the door open for a virtual appearance. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood said in a tweet that he hoped the King would be allowed to go to Egypt, adding that he was a 'globally respected voice' on the environment whose attendance would add 'serious authority' to the British delegation. While Boris Johnson became an enthusiastic advocate for net zero, Miss Truss is thought to be more sceptical of the green agenda. A government source said: 'The Palace and the Government considered separately, and then agreed jointly, that... he is not going to be attending Cop.' Nicola Sturgeon's mixed reception: Scotland's First Minister is booed and cheered by crowd as she arrives in Dunfermline for city-making ceremony while King Charles is greeted by fans waving Union flags Nicola Sturgeon today received a mixed reception as she arrived for a historic city-making ceremony in Dunfermline. The Scottish First Minister was loudly booed by parts of the crowd - and cheered by others - as she smiled and waved to fellow Scots outside Dunfermline City Chambers this morning. Royal fans had gathered outside the 140-year-old council building to catch a glimpse of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla - who are also attending the event. Dunfermline, which is just across the Forth estuary from the Scottish capital Edinburgh, was granted city status earlier this year as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. But the Monarch died last month, at the age of 96, before the ceremony to formally mark the honour could take place. Today, Charles, who ascended the throne last month following the death of his mother, will be among those attending the city-making ceremony. Nicola Sturgeon today received a frosty reception as she arrived ahead of King Charles for a historic city-making ceremony in Dunfermline. Pictured: First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is greeted by Lord Provost of Dunfermline Jim Leishman as she arrives at the City Chambers in Dunfermline, Fife Ahead of the event, First Minister Sturgeon arrived at Dunfermline City Chambers, where she was met by Lord Provost of Dunfermline Jim Leishman. But as she turned to wave to the largely royalist crowds, the Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP) leader was met with a mixed reception. Among a smattering of cheers and claps were loud boos and whistles. The moment was captured on camera by ITV's royal editor Chris Ship. Posting the video on Twitter, he wrote: 'If you needed a reminder of how decisive Scottish politics can be, Nicola Sturgeon was mostly booed (plus some cheers) by the crowd waiting for King Charles and Camilla to arrive. 'This is a crowd waiting for a monarch to turn up but took me by surprise'. In sharp contrast, King Charles was later seen greeting crowds, some of whom were waving the Union flag. Advertisement Officials have released the identities of the three Minnesota passengers that were killed after their plane crashed into the roof of a home. Matthew Schmidt, 31, his sister, Alyssa Schmidt, 32 and pilot Tyler Fretland, 32, died after their small Cessna 172 plane crashed into a Hermantown home where a couple was sleeping with their cat late Saturday night. Jason and Crystal Hoffman were quickly awaken when the plane slammed into the second floor of their home before landing in the backyard on the 5100 block of Arrowhead Road. 'We couldn't hardly see each other through all the insulation dust. I was able to grab a flashlight next to the bed and the first thing I saw was an airplane wheel sitting at the end of our bed,' Hoffman told MPR News. 'That's when we looked out and noticed the entire back half of our house was gone.' The couple suffered minor injuries after the ceiling fell on their lower bodies. Duluth International Airport notified police that a plane had left its radar about 1.5 miles away and may have crashed. Hermantown Police Department told DailyMail.com that the cause of the crash remains unknown as investigators actively evaluate the scene. Alyssa Schmidt, 32, and her brother Matthew Schmidt, are among the three that were killed after a small plane crash landed into a Minnesota home on Saturday night Pilot Tyler Fretland, 32, was behind the wheel when the plane crashed into the Minnesota home The plane crashed into a Hermantown home where a couple was sleeping with their cat late Saturday night Footage of the crash shows were the plane crashed into the second story of the home before landing in the backyard The couple inside only suffered minor injuries after the parts of their ceiling fell onto their legs The three were onboard a small Cessna 172 plane (a similar aircraft to the one pictured above) Duluth International Airport notified police that a plane had left its radar about 1.5 miles away and may have crashed Pilot Fretland was remembered on social media as friends were in disbelief of his passing. 'Such a tragedy to lose you today,' one friend wrote. 'Rest easy in the peaceful skies my friend, we will miss you.' Fretland earned his commercial certification in July 2021 and was eligible to apply as an airplane pilot, according to his social media page. The pilot raved about working for Delta Airlines but the crash isn't associated with the company. 'This general aviation flight had no affiliation at all with Delta,' a spokesperson told DailyMail.com. Several tagged photos on Instagram showed Matt and Fretland were close friends. 'Tyler and Matt, you will both be missed,' one person wrote on Instagram while posting a series of photos with the pair. Friends remembered Pilot Fretland on Instagram. Fretland worked for Delta Airlines but the company confirmed the crash was unrelated One friend remembered Matt (far left) and Tyler (far right) on social media while posting a series of photos Fretland (left) and Matthew (right) were pictured together along with two others at a Halloween party in 2019 Alyssa, who was a third-grade teacher at Echo Park Elementary School, was remembered by her friends as a 'once in a lifetime' type of person with a 'contagious smile.' 'There will never be another like her,' Kate Payne wrote on Facebook. 'Being your roommate was one of the best decisions I ever made. You've been there for me at my lowest lows and my highest highs. You've never missed any important days in my life, always right there by my side.' Payne continued: 'There are no words for this kind of thing, nothing at all to describe what anyone is feeling. All we can do is try to be a little more like you.' 'At a loss for words,' another friend added. 'She was incredibly kind hearted and had such a contagious smile. Absolutely heart broken.' Alyssa was a third-grade teacher at Echo Park Elementary School. She was remembered by her friends as a 'once in a lifetime' with positive energy Alyssa was remembered by her friends as having a contagious laugh and smile. 'There will never be another like her,' one friend wrote on Facebook The third-grade teacher knew how to make others feel comfortable and was welcoming to those she met, according to her friends Some recalled their time spent with both Alyssa and her brother Matthew (above) over the years Another friend recalled Alyssa's positive energy and old soul while referring to her as 'Mama Lyss.' 'She genuinely cared about every single person and what they had going on in their lives,' Trent Zimmer wrote while admitting he doesn't usually share on Facebook, but Alyssa was the exception. 'You would never know if she was having a good or bad day because she was consistently the same Alyssa. Huge smile and huge laugh. 'She could make anyone feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations. She could make anyone feel like they belonged... I don't take to Facebook often in times like this and yet I just felt like the world needed to know how special she was. She was truly different.' Others remembered Alyssa and her brother Matthew as 'two shining stars' and recalled the their regular summer pool days. 'Couldn't sleep last night thinking about you two,' Rachelle Peterson wrote. 'Its a unique kind of grief when someone who you love and were close to years ago get taken from this earth to early. Although it's been years, there are friends like you who are a monumental moment and staples in others lives for specific reasons, times and memories and mine was just one.' More than 33,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel in small boats so far this year, official government figures have revealed. Data released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said 33,001 people have been intercepted making the dangerous journey across the 21-mile Dover Straits in 2022. A total of 7,961 of those migrants arrived in September alone and this figure is expected to increase as a further 400 people crossed the Channel today. At least two Border Force vessels could be seen escorting dozens of migrants into Dover, Kent in the early hours of this morning - after battling cold and windy conditions at sea. The migrants, which included young children, wore blankets around their shoulders as they were led along the gangway to the dockside at a former jetfoil terminal, out of sight from the public. Border force officials at Dungeness beach in Kent escorting migrants ashore this morning - one is pictured holding a small child A large group of migrants were brought into Dungeness today - queues of people are seen wrapped up in blankets An RNLI lifeboat brought a third group of asylum seekers into the port shortly before sunrise Women and young children in winter coats and lifejackets could be seen being placed on buses As the MoD released their latest data, a further 400 people crossed the Channel today An RNLI lifeboat brought a third group of asylum seekers into the port shortly before sunrise. Around 11am today Border Force staff could be seen escorting dozens more migrants to shore. The asylum seekers were met by an ambulance in the harbour and Border Force vessel Hurricane returned to the harbour with a fifth group shortly before 1pm. While the MoD is yet to confirm the official figures for today, it is believed at least 400 people have crossed the Channel in inflatable dinghies and other small craft. This comes after Friday saw 194 people make the perilous crossing in four boats - an average of 49 people per vessel. The asylum seekers were met by an ambulance in the harbour and Border Force A young child being wrapped up in a blanket amid cold and windy conditions this morning Several groups of migrants were brought ashore at Dover on Border Force vessels, including Hurricane, Ranger and Typhoon, throughout the morning The MoD is yet to confirm the official figures for today but it is believed at least 400 people have crossed the Channel in inflatable dinghies and other small craft Migrants were dropped off at the port of Calais where they were taken care of by the border police Several groups of migrants were brought ashore at Dover on Border Force vessels, including Hurricane, Ranger and Typhoon, throughout the morning. Women and young children in winter coats and lifejackets could be seen being placed on buses to be taken to the immigration processing centre at Manston, near Ramsgate, Kent. The arrivals were the first since the previous Friday, September 23, when 656 people were intercepted in 15 separate incidents - with cold conditions strong winds at sea preventing further crossings. The sudden drop in temperature has already seen one migrant contract hypothermia. On Thursday, the regional operational centre for surveillance and rescue (CROSS) in Cap Griz-Nez, northern France, located a boat in difficulty off the coast of the Gravelines commune. Migrants were led along the gangway to the dockside at a former jetfoil terminal, out of sight from the public At least two Border Force vessels could be seen escorting dozens of migrants into Dover, Kent in the early hours of this morning The maritime affairs patrol boat, Jeanne Barret, was tasked with rescuing 55 stranded people. Among them was a person in a state of hypothermia who required medical attention. The migrants were dropped off at the port of Calais where they were taken care of by the border police and the departmental fire and rescue service. The person with hypothermia was taken care of by the French emergency services. The number of migrants arriving in the UK this year has already far exceeded 2021's official total of 28,526. In 2020 just 8,410 made the crossing of the 21-mile Dover Straits, according to government figures. Dover MP Natalie Elphicke has said: 'With these shocking record numbers of illegal crossings, getting the small boats crisis under control should be a key priority. 'With the approach of winter, the seas will get rougher and the weather colder- inevitably the risk of further loss of life will increase. That's why urgent action is needed to stop these dangerous crossings.' A man has been arrested following a blaze at a historic building in Belfast in the early hours of this morning. More than 50 firefighters were sent to tackle the fire at the Old Cathedral Building on Donegall Street in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter after being alerted at 5.37am. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said the fire is being treated as suspected arson, and issued an appeal for information. A spokesperson for the force said officers remain at the scene along with colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life with intent. More than 50 firefighters were sent to tackle the fire at the Old Cathedral Building on Donegall Street in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter after being alerted at 5.37am An 18-year-old man has now been arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life with intent They added: 'A number of diversions are still in place for motorists and we would advise the public to avoid the area where possible.' 'Inquiries are ongoing and I would appeal to anyone with information or who has CCTV or dashcam footage from the area at the time of the incident to contact detectives at Musgrave on 101, quoting reference number 197 03/10/22.' A Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said eight fire appliances from Belfast, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn, two aerial appliances, 52 firefighters and five officers are in attendance.' The building hosts a number of small creative businesses. More than 50 firefighters were sent to the fire on Donegall Street after an emergency call was made at 5.37am Firefighters attending the blaze at the Old Cathedral Building on Donegall Street. The road still remains closed Speaking in the aftermath, business owners said they watched their work 'literally go up in flames'. Tina Calder, owner of Excalibur Press, which has offices in the building, said: 'I got a call this morning just before 6am. 'My brother is a security guard at the Ulster University and he said, 'Tina, your building is on fire'. 'Of course, I sprang up, got a taxi, came in and literally for about an hour and a half, just stood here crying watching the building go up in flames.' Ms Calder rang the landlord, agent and other tenants as she watched the building continue to burn. Tina Calder, (pictured) who owns a business in the historic building, was alerted to the fire early this morning after her security guard brother spotted it while working She added: 'It was just heart breaking as I watched people's studios go. One man owns a violin making studio - it was gone. There are illustrators in there that have artwork. 'We can see that our offices are probably going to have significant water and smoke damage. All five of my staff are working from home today. 'We've had a wonderful outburst of support from the community here in Cathedral Quarter, asking what can they do to help, and it's just wonderful to see that community come together to support us.' Freelance illustrator Elly Makem, who has a studio space in the building, told the BBC she watched her work 'literally go up in flames'. She told the BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme: 'All of my work is in that building. 'I have physical pieces I haven't submitted to clients yet and I have a 3,000 laptop that I bought last year that had all of my work on it. 'Every single piece of equipment I've gathered over the last eight years is in that building. 'I put so much effort into trying to make it being freelance; it's just watching it literally go up in flames.' People have taken to social media to react to the blaze that happened in the early hours of this morning on Donegall Street, Belfast Declan Keeney, a professor at Ulster University, wrote on Twitter: 'Heartbroken for the many brilliant small businesses, organisations & artists based in Cathedral Buildings in Donegall St this morning given all they bring to the area. 'Sad to see this building & its heritage so badly damaged by fire. 'Thoughts are with our neighbours this morning.' Belfast City Councillor, Fiona Ferguson, added: 'Devastating morning for residents, businesses and groups impacted by the Cathedral Quarter fire. 'I've have raised the issue with the Chief Executive of Belfast City Council to see what urgent support can be provided.' The Supreme Court declined to hear MyPillow CEO and staunch Trump ally Mike Lindell's appeal of an August 2021 decision forcing him to face Dominion Voting Systems' lawsuit The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a last-ditch bid by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, among Donald Trump's most loyal 2020 election deniers, to fend off a $1.3 billion defamation lawsuit. It's among several high-profile updates to kick off the high court's new term - the first for newly-minted Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first black female jurist on the bench. The court also declined to hear a challenge to the federal ban on bump stocks, thereby avoiding a second groundbreaking 2nd Amendment case in two years after dealing a blow to New York State's gun control laws last term. In its decision on Lindell, the Supreme Court is deferring to a lower court decision that allowed the lawsuit to proceed made in August 2021. The right-wing businessman is being sued by Dominion Voting Systems for pushing Trump's claims that the company's machines, which were used throughout the country on Election Day 2020, were rigged in favor of President Joe Biden. Dominion sued Lindell in February 2021, and has lodged similar lawsuits against former Trump lawyers Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell. One challenge the court did take up, however, is guaranteed to shake up the social media sphere. Justices will weigh in on the broad immunity granted to internet companies by Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act. Section 230 frees these companies from much of the liability linked to user content, and gives them a legal shield for removing content that violates platform policy and guidelines. Trump first brought the rule to national attention during his presidency, when he complained about the policy and attempted to have it repealed. It's the beginning of the first term for liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first black female jurist on the high court Because she replaced fellow liberal Justice Stephen Breyer, whom she clerked for, Jackson's appointment does little to influence the makeup of the conservative-controlled court Since then it's attracted scrutiny from both Democrats and Republicans who question whether Section 230's immunities give social media companies too much unchecked influence. The case the Supreme Court agreed to hear on Monday centers on a 23-year-old Mexican-American student from California named Nohemi Gonzalez, who was killed by ISIS terrorists while studying abroad in Paris. Gonzalez was one of 130 who died in the November 2015 Paris terror attacks, the deadliest assault in French peacetime history. Her family sued Google, alleging that its subsidiary YouTube was partially responsible for Gonzalez's death due to its algorithm's promotion of ISIS-made and pro-ISIS videos helping spread the terror group's message. Plaintiffs in the lawsuit, Gonzalez v. Google, claim that Google violated the Anti-Terrorism Act. But California's US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled last year that Google was shielded by Section 230 - a decision that the new Supreme Court will re-weigh this term. The high court also dealt a blow to pro-gun groups in upholding a federal law put in place after the deadly 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting. It levied a ban on bump stocks, devices which allow semi-automatic rifles to work like machine guns. A Utah gun lobbyist and other pro-2nd Amendment groups challenged Trump's reclassification of bump stocks under a federal prohibition against owning machine guns in the wake of the 2017 shooting. In turning down the gun groups' appeal the Supreme Court upheld that the bump stock ban was within that federal statute. It followed a 6-3 ruling in June that saw the court's conservative supermajority strike down New York's strict conceal-carry handgun rules. Oath Keepers leader Stuart Rhodes and other militia members in the group 'plotted January 6 armed rebellion to shatter bedrock of American democracy', prosecutors told a jury during a trial on Monday. Rhodes, the Yale-educated attorney and former US paratrooper who founded the Oath Keepers, was accused of stockpiling weapons at a northern Virginia hotel in preparation for January 6 riots, prosecutors told a jury. The rare Civil War-era charge of seditious conspiracy was brought against five of the Oath Keepers' 'top lieutenants' during a trial in federal court in Washington DC. Although rarely prosecuted it carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Yale-educated attorney and former US paratrooper Rhodes 'plotted January 6 armed rebellion to shatter bedrock of American democracy', prosecutors told a jury Prosecutors argued that Rhodes and his co-defendants Kelly Meggs, Thomas Caldwell, Jessica Watkins and Kenneth Harrelson sought to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power by storming the US Capitol on January 6. Rhodes told his followers during the planning stage that 'it will be torches and pitchforks time if they (Congress) don't do the right thing,' according to a message he sent to his followers that was shown to the jury by prosecutors. The five Oath Keepers are accused of plotting to forcefully prevent Congress from certifying Democratic President Joe Biden's 2020 election victory in a failed bid to keep then-President Donald Trump in power. Prosecutor Jeff Nestler said that on Election Day Meggs had told his wife Connie, who is criminally charged in a separate case, 'I'm gonna go on a killing spree. Pelosi first.' The comment was a reference to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the top Democrat in Congress. Kenneth Harrelson (left), 41, is charged with organizing the January 6 riot and instructing members from outside the Capitol building. Thomas Caldwell (right), 65, was also charged with seditious conspiracy Kelly Meggs was another defendant charged with seditious conspiracy. Prosecutors told the jury that Meggs said to his wife: 'I'm gonna go on a killing spree. Pelosi first' Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol after Trump falsely claimed the election had been stolen from him through widespread fraud. Five people died during and shortly after the riot and about 140 police were injured. Prosecutors have said the five defendants trained and planned for January 6 and stockpiled weapons at a northern Virginia hotel outside the capital for a 'quick reaction force' that would be ready to move arms into Washington if needed. As lawmakers met on January 6 to certify Biden's election victory some Oath Keepers charged into the Capitol building clad in paramilitary gear. They are not accused of carrying firearms onto Capitol grounds. The government has characterized the Oath Keepers as a far-right anti-government group, some of whose members have ties to militias. Some members include current and former military and law enforcement personnel. Rhodes has disputed that characterization, saying the Oath Keepers are a non-partisan group whose members have pledged to defend the US Constitution. Philip Linder, one of Rhodes' attorneys, promised the jury his client, whom he described as 'extremely patriotic,' would take the stand to explain his side of the story. Members of the Oath Keepers were seen coordinating throughout the Capitol He said the 'real evidence' in the trial will show that the defendants were in Washington on January 5 and 6 to provide security to a variety of speakers at political rallies. In opening statements on Monday federal prosecutors showed videos, texts and other posts by defendants from before, during and after the Capitol attack. Watkins told members of her local Ohio chapter that 'I need you fighting fit' by the inauguration. Meggs told followers from the Florida Oath Keepers that 'the time for talk is over. The real question is who's willing to DIE?' according to text messages shown by the prosecution. On the day of the assault, Nestler said Watkins led a group of seven Oath Keepers toward the Senate side of the Capitol. As she stormed down the hallway with the 'power of the mob with her,' Nestler said she yelled 'Push, push, push!' He said that Watkins added: 'They can't hold us.' Meanwhile Meggs and Harrelson led a group of seven Oath Keepers toward the House of Representatives side of the Capitol where Nestler said they looked specifically for Pelosi. Trump is not expected to be a central figure in the case. District Judge Amit Mehta, who is presiding over the trial, restricted the defendants from using a 'public authority' defense. This means they cannot claim they stormed the Capitol at Trump's direction. Rates for a 30-year mortgage have reached 6.29 percent - the highest it's been since 2008 Growing mortgage rates have led affordability to levels not seen since the 1980s - with some payment-to-income ratios hitting upward of 72 percent Home prices continue to drop throughout the US as median home prices continued its two-month decline, reaching numbers not seen since 2009. Median home prices fell 0.98 percent in August following a 1.05 percent drop in July, according to Black Knight Inc. These are the largest monthly declines since January 2009. San Jose experienced the sharpest drop at 13 percent ($203,000) from its 2022 peak, followed by San Francisco at 10.8 percent ($137,000) and Seattle at 9.9 percent ($82,500). A 'historically low inventory' complemented by rising mortgage rates - which have since reached 6.29 percent, the highest it's been since 2008 - have driven property sellers away from the market, Black Knight said in a release. Average 30-year mortgage rates have reached 6.29 percent - the highest it's been since 2008 Median home prices fell at an average of 0.98 percent in August, following a 1.05 percent drop in July. This is the largest two-month decline since 2009 In a ratio between median income and median monthly mortgage payments, some homeowners are required to pay two times the median income to purchase a median-priced home Average inventory had increased between May to July but began to decrease in August. The drop in median prices comes at the backend of continual growth the previous two years. 'Together they represent two straight months of significant pullbacks after more than two years of record-breaking growth,' said Ben Graboske, Black Knight Data and Analytics president. Alongside rising mortgage rates, purchasing a home at the median income in some US cities is no longer a viable option for potential property buyers. According to Black Knight's 'Mortgage Monitor' reports, 71 of the 100 largest markets in the US are at three-decade lows in terms of home affordability. In some cities, like Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles and Phoenix, it requires more than two times the median income to purchase a median-priced home. Los Angeles has the worst payment-to-income ratio in the US - or, monthly mortgage payments as a ratio to monthly income - at 72.1 percent. Between 1995 and 2003, the average was 35.5 percent, leading to an over 36 percent difference. An affordability index for homes across the US indicates percentages not seen since the 1980s In some cities, like Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles and Phoenix, it requires more than two times the median income to purchase a median-priced home Some financial analysts predict home prices will continue a decline, with some predicting anywhere between a 5 percent to 15 percent drop by 2024. In August, Fitch Ratings said housing activity could fall 'roughly 30 percent or more over a multiyear period, and 10 percent to 15 percent declines in home prices.' Fortune complemented this sentiment, though it added some markets could experience declines upward of 20 percent to 25 percent. Goldman Sachs, which previously predicted prices would rise 1.8 percent in 2023, now expects prices to fall between 5 and 10 percent. 'We view the risks to these estimates as tilted to the downside because of a sharp deterioration in our descriptive home price outlook scores and evidence of strong mean reversion in regional data,' Goldman Sachs researchers wrote. Brooks objected to her order and was immediately thrown out of court Around 12.30 pm, Judge Jennifer Dorow ordered Brooks to view proceedings from an adjacent courtroom due to the disruptions Waukesha County District Attorney Sue Opper reportedly asked Judge Jennifer Dorow to review a case regarding the gagging of defendants in a courtroom During the first several hours of day one, five breaks were called by the judge due to repeated interruptions from Brooks Darrell Brooks, 40, is representing himself after a judge granted his request to dismiss his representation last week The man accused of killing six people when he drove his car into a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin in November 2021 was kicked out of court Monday on the first day of his trial. Darrell Brooks, 40, pleaded not guilty to six counts of intentional homicide as well as 71 other counts ahead of the Monday start of his four week trial. According to The Waukesha Freeman, it took just seven minutes for the judge presiding over the case, Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Dorow, to call for a break in the trial after Brooks allegedly interrupted her several times. The accused reportedly told Dorow that he objected to her using his name in court, saying that it wasn't really his name at all. Darrell Brooks, 40, was thrown out of a Wisconsin courtroom for his antics Monday on the first day of his trial for the murder of six people The man argued with the judge Monday afternoon, causing her to call for five stops before noon. Brooks was later thrown out of court just after 12.30pm The accused, who is charged with 77 counts, could be seen arguing with Judge Jennifer Darow during the first day of jury selection on Monday Brooks has been arrested more than 16 times since 1999 for charges related to drug possession, domestic assault, and now murder The judge responded to Brooks' antics by saying continued interruptions and actions from him would result in 'a really long day.' Just 17 minutes after the first break, another break was called as the accused allegedly badgered Dorow on her qualifications and her name. By 10.15am, the judge had ordered three breaks and excused the jury, who were invited into the courtroom for all of five minutes. Around 12pm, Waukesha County District Attorney Sue Opper allegedly asked Dorow to 'review a U.S. Supreme Court decision governing the gagging of defendants in court.' People gathered in Waukesha following the deadly incident which claimed the lives of six people and injured dozens of others Just after that, Brooks was ordered to view the proceedings from an adjacent courtroom, according to the Waukesha Freeman. Brooks allegedly immediately objected and was thrown out of court 'in a session that lasted two minutes.' Dorow is the local judge who approved Brooks' request granted Brooks' request last week to dismiss his lawyers and represent himself, according to reports. 'Its really going to be a challenging trial for the witnesses,' Tom Grieve, a criminal defense attorney based in Madison, told the Associated Press. Timeline of the deadly Waukesha Christmas parade on November 21, 2021 4 pm: Neighbors in Waukesha, a city located outside of Milwaukee, gather for a Christmas parade starting at Main Street, White Rock Avenue and Pleasant Street. 4.30 pm: A 'knife crime' is committed nearby the scene of the parade, officials later link Brooks to the crime 4.39 pm: A red Ford Escape is first caught speeding down Main Street in the direction of the parade 4.40 pm: The car narrowly avoids a little girl dancing in the street, still hurdling towards the main parts of the parade 4.45 pm: Pom pom dancers and band members are the first to be hit when the car speeds through the parade 4.50 pm: Police chase after the car as injured individuals line the streets 'Hours later': Brooks' vehicle is found nearby the scene of the crime and the man is arrested Monday, November 22: Brooks is identified as the person arrested by police for the crime Advertisement 'You have a defendant who feels like he has nothing to lose. Hes going to try to make as big a mess as possible and force a fumble by the prosecutors or judge and try to force a mistrial or build an appeal,' Grieve said. Brooks, a Milwaukee resident, was arrested near the scene of the attack on November 21 and has been in custody ever since. Prosecutors say Brooks deliberately drove his car through police barricades and into the crowds participating in the annual parade in the city of Waukesha, about 15 miles west of downtown Milwaukee. Brooks rammed through the crowd after allegedly confronting a woman outside of a motel before the parade. Law enforcement officials said that the accused returned and punched that woman in the face and ran her over, as well. The ages of the people killed ranged from 8 to 81 years old, and more than 60 other people were injured, including at least 18 children. Brooks, who was out on bail from a domestic abuse charge at the time of the attack, faces life in prison if convicted of the most serious charges. The man has a lengthy rap sheet dating back to 1999 when he was first arrested for aggravated battery and carrying a concealed weapon. Since then, he's had at least 15 other run ins with the law. Brooks has been charged with obstructing an officer multiple times, possession of a controlled substance, paternity warrants, failure to appear in court, and other charges. One of his most aggressive charges came in 2010 when he was accused of strangulation and suffocation, as well as domestic battery. Hundreds of people witnessed the attack, several recording cellphone videos, some of whom are expected to be called to testify by prosecutors from the Waukesha County district attorney's office. The trial had been scheduled to last about a month, but Brooks' decision to represent himself may prolong the process even as Dorow has warned him that the court will not tolerate deliberate acts of obstruction, the Journal Sentinel reported. Monday's issues in court were not the first in this trial, however. A first responder was seen examining the crime scene after Brooks allegedly drove through a crowd of people at high speeds during a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin During an August 26 appearance, Brooks fell asleep several times, and then ranted at Dorow, WISN reported. 'You sit up here and act like you know me,' he said, as she stood with her arms folded. 'People like you don't know nothing about where I come from,' he continued. Brooks was also heard to say that he was 'bored' by proceedings, and raged at sheriff's deputies as they led him out of court at Judge Dorow's instructions. The accused called the trial 'political' and continued to verbally batter the judge. At one point, Brooks told Dorow that he didn't want to be there and wanted to return to his cell. This map shows where Darrell Brooks allegedly crashed into parade marchers and onlookers during a November 21 Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin Brooks is seen photographed during a pretrial court appearance in Waukesha, Wisconsin Brooks pleaded not guilty in February. In April, his attorneys, public defenders Anna Kees and Jeremy Perri, filed a motion seeking to push the proceedings back until at least March 2023. The attorneys argued in the motion they need at least six months to study more than 300 videos of the parade, break down the SUV's speed throughout the incident, review the police interrogation of Brooks and reach out to potential expert witnesses. District Attorney Susan Opper urged the judge to stay on schedule. A stroller was left at the scene where more than 60 people were injured and six were left dead She said prosecutors have turned over almost all its evidence to the defense. The last pieces were results from DNA tests on samples taken from Brooks' SUV. The surviving victims and their families need closure as soon as possible, Opper added. During a hearing in June, Brooks requested the changing his plea to not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect. A manhunt has been launched for a suspected serial killer who shot dead five men in California over the last three months. The bodies of victims aged 21 to 54 - four of whom were Hispanic - were found in Stockton since July, and police have now said they are linked. The victims are identified as Paul Alexander Yaw, 35, Salvador William Dubedy Jr., 43, Jonathan Hernandez Rodriguez, 21, Juan Cruz, 52 and Lorenzo Lopez, 54. The men were found dead alone and in the early hours of the morning and all killings took place in dimly lit environments. Some of the victims were homeless. On Friday Stockton Police Department released an unclear image of a suspect and said information is limited and that the suspect could be a man or a woman. Police have only said 'physical evidence' connects the five killings. An image of suspect put out by Stockton Police Department. Chief McFadden said in a press conference on Friday that based on the image they could be 'either male or female' Police Chief Stanley McFadden said on Friday the department needs help from to public to bring new information to light having ruled out gang violence and robbery. Information leading to an arrest will now be rewarded with $85,000, $75,000 from the City of Stockton and a further $10,000 from Stockton Crime Stoppers. Stockton Police Department said that misinformation has been spread. Stockton police told ABC news that all of the victims were ambushed and that none of the attacks were drug or gang-related. Paul Alexander Yaw was the first to be killed on July 8, his family have confirmed. He was taken to hospital after being shot in the early hours of the morning but died there from his injuries. Yaw was the only one of the five victims who was not Hispanic. Lorenzo Lopez, 54, was one of the older victims. He was found at 4400 Manchester Ave. Paul Alexander Yaw was the first to be killed on July 8, his family have confirmed. He was taken to hospital after being shot in the early hours of the morning but died there from his injuries Salvador William Dubedy Jr., 43, was a Stockton native and father. He died at the scene he was shot, five minutes from Yaw's shooting, after police attempted to save him His mother Greta Bogrow said in a statement: 'He was my son, a father, a grandson, nephew, cousin and brother and was loved by many. He has left a huge hole in our hearts and I hope they catch the person(s) responsible before this happens again.' Bogrow said that Yaw was homeless when he died. Jonathan Hernandez Rodriguez, 21, was found dead inside a car on East Hammer Lane on August 11, according to San Joaquin County Coroner's Office. Lorenzo Lopez, 54, was one of the older victims. His brother Jerry Lopez said: 'It's hard to process that this has happened. I mean, me and my brother have been like twins. We were a year apart so we were pretty close.' He hopes that the new $85,000 reward will bring evidence to light that will help with the capture of his brother's killer. Five murders in THREE MONTHS see cops hunt 'serial killer' in Stockton July 8 at 12.31am Paul Alexander Yaw, 35, White 5600 Kermit Lane August 11 at 9.49am Salvador William Dubedy Jr., 43, Hispanic 4900 West Lane August 30 at 6.41am Jonathan Hernandez Rodriguez, 21, Hispanic 800 E. Hammer Lane September 21 at 4.27am Juan Cruz, 52, Hispanic 4400 Manchester Ave. September 27 at 1.53am Lorenzo Lopez, 54, Hispanic 900 Porter Ave. Advertisement 'They are working hard on it. I see the Chief is doing a great job. He is working really hard for the city trying to figure out what's going on,' said Lopez to KCRA 3. 'I do appreciate you, Chief.' Salvador William Dubedy Jr., 43, was a Stockton native and father. He died at the scene he was shot, five minutes from Yaw's shooting, after police attempted to save him. His wife only found out about the supposed connection between the five murders after through social media and was disappointed she wasn't reached out to directly. Stockton mayor Kevin Lincoln explained that his office is working closely with the police department to bring the killer to justice. Stockton Police Chief McFadden said during the Friday conference: 'What makes these cases so challenging is that there are no witnesses due to the location, the timing, the lack of light.' He told reporters that detectives have reviewed several hundred hours of video footage. 'We feel they are interconnected somehow. To what extent we just don't know at this time,' he added. 'We have a series of homicides that we believe are interconnected. The problem we have is we have no evidence to tell us if its one person, two or three. We just don't know. We have no video footage that has even captured a crime, that's even captured a handgun in somebody's hand.' 'By definition you could very well call this a serial killer,' he said. 'It doesn't fit with what we are accustomed to seeing with gang homicides. One of out victims was a white male so we have no indication that these are hate crimes.' Some of them did have homes. Some even lived in the area, but not all were unhoused.' The chief is now calling for information from the public. 'Look at your ring cameras and any footage you have from these dates provided.' McFadden, who became police chief just five months ago, also said that CCTV surveillance of the sites where shootings had occurred was limited. Stockton police Chief Stanley McFadden who took on the position just five months ago. He says the department believes the killings are connected but is now calling to the public for information 'Either this person or persons is very lucky in choosing where they're going or they're doing their homework and going to places where they know there are no cameras,' he said. He said that the police department has sent away ballistics for testing but was yet to receive a response. He advised citizens of Stockton not to walk alone at night and not to be in dimly lit areas. A tip line has been opened for people with information to come forward. The number is 209-937-8167. Information can also be sent to policetips@stocktonca.gov. The parents of a brain-damaged baby who tried breathing after doctors ruled he had died have made a last ditch appeal after losing the latest stage in their legal fight to keep him on life-support. A High Court judge ruled on Wednesday the five-month-old boy, known only as A, has no prospect of recovering and it was in his best interests to remove him from his ventilator and place him in palliative care. The baby was found unresponsive in June at two months old, judges had earlier heard, with the boy being declared dead shortly thereafter when doctors determined he had no brain-stem activity. Mr Justice Poole described current life-support treatment as 'futile' but the boy's parents, who are Muslims of Bangladeshi origin, had begged the judge to give him more time to 'make progress', or for 'Allah to intervene'. Litigants must show that they have an arguable case before appeal judges hear appeals. Solicitor Amy Rowe, who represents the couple and works for law firm Dawson Cornwell, confirmed on Monday that the couple had lodged an 'application for leave to appeal'. She said the couple were waiting to see if an appeal judge would give them the go-ahead to mount an appeal. A High Court judge ruled on Wednesday the five-month-old boy, known only as A, has no prospect of recovering and it was in his best interests to remove him from his ventilator and place him in palliative care. Pictured: The Royal Courts of Justice in London Specialists treating the boy, who is on a ventilator, say he has suffered a 'catastrophic' brain injury, has no prospect of recovering, and should be removed from the ventilator and given only palliative care The couple had lost an earlier High Court fight in June - when a separate judge, Justice Hayden, reached the same conclusion. The family successfully petitioned for an appeal on that occasion on the basis they did not have legal representation. Earlier this year, Justice Hayden ruled that tragic schoolboy Archie Battersbee could be removed from life support after he was placed in a medically induced coma when he was found with ligature around his neck in his room. Specialists treating the baby, who is on a ventilator, say he has suffered a 'catastrophic' brain injury, has no prospect of recovering, and should be removed from the ventilator and given only palliative care. Mr Justice Hayden ruled earlier this year that doctors could lawfully stop providing treatment to the baby after a trial in the Family Division of the High Court in London Doctors concluded that his brain had been starved of oxygen for more than 30 minutes and he had suffered 'devastating' brain damage. The boy's parents, who are Muslims of Bangladeshi origin, had urged the judge to give him more time to 'make progress', or for 'Allah to intervene'. Mr Justice Poole was told that the boy's parents had been interviewed by police after evidence suggested he had suffered what appeared to be 'non-accidental injuries'. No charges had been brought, but the couple remained under investigation. Lawyers representing bosses at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, who are responsible for the boy's care, had asked for decisions about what moves were in his best interests. The boy remained on a ventilator in June because his parents were unhappy with the diagnosis and litigation had begun. A nurse subsequently noticed him trying to breathe. Another High Court judge, Mr Justice Hayden, had earlier decided that treatment should end. The parents had represented themselves at a trial overseen by Mr Justice Hayden. Appeal judges concluded that Mr Justice Hayden should have adjourned the trial to give them time to find lawyers. Barristers Victoria Butler-Cole KC and Arianna Kelly, and Dawson Cornwell, represented the couple free of charge at the trial overseen by Mr Justice Poole. U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin gives opening remarks at the start of a meeting at the U.S. airbase in Ramstein, western Germany, as the United States gathered its allies in Germany for a new round of talks on bolstering the Ukraine militarily, Sept. 8. AFP-Yonhap U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Sunday he sees no imminent invasion of Taiwan by China but said China was trying to establish a "new normal" with its military activities around the island. A visit to Taiwan early in August by U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi enraged China, which subsequently launched military drills near the island. Those have continued, although on a much reduced scale. "I don't see an imminent invasion," Austin said in an interview broadcast on CNN. "What we do see is China moving to establish what we would call a new normal. Increased activity we saw a number of center line crossings of the Taiwan Strait by their aircraft. That number has increased over time. We've seen more activity with their surface vessels and waters in and around Taiwan." U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaks during a meeting with Taiwanese President President Tsai Ing-wen in Taipei, Taiwan, Aug. 3. AP Cuomo also has a pending $125million lawsuit against CNN, in which he claims his firing so marred his reputation he could never work in journalism again Despite the new opportunity, Cuomo implied during an interview last week that the NewsNation show was a step down from his former CNN glory Chris Cuomo is returning to the airwaves tonight for the first time since he was ousted from CNN, mere days after implying the new show was a step down from his former primetime glory during an interview with New York Magazine editor Kara Swisher. The 52-year-old's new show - simply called 'Cuomo' - premiers on the NewsNation network at 8pm EST, and is set to feature guests like Anthony Fauci, Whoopi Goldberg, Bill Maher, and Tulsi Gabbard in its first week. The show marks Cuomo's attempt at a comeback after he was canned by CNN executives for violating journalistic ethics by advising his disgraced brother - former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo - through sexual misconduct allegations in 2021. Cuomo has since maintained he did nothing wrong in advising his older brother and is currently suing CNN for $125million for lost wages, with the lawsuit claiming the firing left his reputation so marred that it would be 'difficult if not impossible for Cuomo to find similar work in the future.' During his appearance on On With Kara Swisher last week, the NY Magazine editor pointed out the incongruity of Cuomo's lawsuit's claims about his future employment against his new primetime show. 'And you have a new job now, which Id like to talk about, so you can be hired apparently,' Swisher asked Cuomo, after reading a passage from his lawsuit. 'Well, do you believe that where I am now is equivalent to where I was?' Cuomo responded. 'Depends on what you do with it,' Swisher said. 'Im talking to you in my dining room. I was the number one show at CNN and I would be recognized in Malawi as much as I would be in Milwaukee. That is a very different.' Cuomo will reportedly earn $1 million for his new hosting gig on NewsNation - a fraction of his former $6 million-a-year paycheck at CNN. Chris Cuomo on the set of his new NewsNation show, which is set to air Monday at 8pm EST Swisher, editor of New York Magazine, asked Cuomo how his firing from CNN made him unhireable as he has already landed a new job NewsNation is a new broadcaster which bills itself as offering neutral reporting on current events - a marked departure for Cuomo, who enjoyed inserting his opinions into stories while on CNN. During a promotional interview for the new show, Cuomo appeared to try to distance himself from the partisan reporting of his past. 'Everything's gotta be context, and balance,' he said in an interview with NewsNation. 'It can't just be that everything is wrong, everything is bad, and I see that now having been outside of it for while, and I hope to bring that perspective in. 'NewsNation is just getting going, the idea of developing an audience, growing something, that's really important to me. Cause I'm really trying to speak to a group, which the good news is its the biggest group, which is regular people who don't identify with either extreme of a party,' he said. Former CNN anchor Chris Cuomo was grilled by journalist Kara Swisher and asked about his termination at CNN as he sues the network for $125 million over his firing 'I was helping him in ways that I thought were reasonable,' said Chris Cuomo, right, of helping his brother Andrew, left, defend against sexual harassment allegations Despite his hiatus from broadcaster's chair, Cuomo has remained in the headlines since his departure from CNN. Many have speculated Cuomo may have sparked the shakeup currently rocking CNN by ratting on former CEO Jeff Zucker over a consensual relationship with the network's Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Allison Gollus, which led directly to the executive's firing. Asked whether he leaked news about the affair by Swisher, Cuomo vehemently denied the rumors. 'No, I didn't,' he said. 'People think a lot of things and very often it's for bad reason or self-serving reason or to hurt somebody else,' Cuomo said. 'I'm not the guy to play petty, gotcha shots and go after people.' He went on to call Zucker 'one of the best makers of television' and the relationship being revealed gave him 'no joy,' adding that Zucker 'gave me tremendous opportunities.' Despite the kind words for his former boss, Cuomo bitterly lamented that he was 'recognized in Malawi as much as I would be in Milwaukee' before his firing. Swisher glossed over an anonymous sexual assault allegation against Cuomo, and simply checked if he denied the allegations. The former CNN front man bluntly answered 'yes' to each of Swisher's questions about the subject before she moved on to the next subject, refusing to dig deeper into it. Swisher also went easy on the former CNN anchor when it came to his brother's sexual harassment allegations, and the ex-governor's younger brother dutifully sidestepped the questions anyway. When asked whether he felt it was inappropriate for him to help his brother wriggle out of the allegations, Cuomo said 'what's the difference between helping him personally and strategically?' Former CNN boss Jeff Zucker was terminated from his position when he didn't disclose a relationship with CNN executive Allison Gollust, though Cuomo denies exposing them Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Allison Gollust, who resigned along with Zucker, is thought to have engaged in the relationship with him for years Cuomo continues to maintain he doesn't see anything wrong with his actions, and says because he wasn't covering his brother's allegations, he was free to help him. 'I was helping him in ways that I thought were reasonable,' said Cuomo. 'I don't know how it hurt the audience. I've never heard that it hurt the audience,' he said of his helping shape his brother's defense against sexual harassment allegations. At the time he issued an on-air apology on CNN, Cuomo said that he 'knows where the line is'. He addressed the conflict of interest again in his podcast, saying: 'I really do regret how everything ended, but I will never regret helping my family.' Andrew Cuomo's career collapsed as a politician after he was accused of inappropriate sexual behavior towards 11 women. He resigned in August 2021 after months of pushback and eventually all criminal charges were dropped against him. Cuomo was found to have helped his brother, ex-New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (pictured here), defend himself from sexual harassment allegations from 11 women The charges against Cuomo were based on allegations by Brittany Commisso, who said Cuomo reached up her blouse and grabbed her breast in late 2020 while they were alone in his Executive Mansion office, where shed been summoned to help with his cellphone. He insisted he did no such thing, saying 'it would be an act of insanity.' Commisso's testimony was among the most damning in a report released in August 2021 by Democratic state Attorney General Letitia James that concluded Cuomo sexually harassed 11 women. Chris maintains that he was not 'the main guy' in helping his brother overcome the allegations and was merely a 'side piece' in the efforts. This notion is backed up by notes from his brother's top aide Melissa DeRosa, who noted 'Chris sends me a lot of things a lot of the time. Half of it I don't engage in. He gives unsolicited advice.' The former governor was also blamed for many of New York's 15,000 nursing home COVID deaths after forcing the facilities to accept COVID-positive patients at the start of the pandemic. Chris chummily interviewed his brother on his CNN show during this time, and admitted to Swisher he knew having his brother on his show was a conflict of interest 'all day long.' He defended the decision to do that as well, and said 'When I did have him on, it was not about news and covering a governor of state. That's all I'm saying,' despite interviewing him on a news show. A twisted husband has been jailed for life for kidnapping and raping his ex-wife while holding her hostage for two days during a campaign of horrific abuse. Trevor Steven Summers, 45, was handed a life sentence for all 11 counts lodged against him in Hillsborough County, Florida - after he subjected his former partner to a taunting cross examination at his own trial. During the trial, Summers represented himself and fired a series of tormenting questions at Alisa Mathewson - who was then forced to recount her trauma to the man who caused it. The ex-wife said that Summers, with who she shares five children, ambushed her in her sleep and raped her after breaking into her home on March 11, 2017. Among other charges, Summers was found guilty of two counts of attempted first-degree murder - for smothering his ex-wife with a pillow until she was knocked out, and strangling her with a rope. In August, jurors took just five hours to come to their verdict. Alongside trying to kill Mathewson, he was guilty of kidnapping, sexual battery, grand theft auto, and child neglect. The twisted husband will now spend his days behind bars. Trevor Steven Summers, 45, who represented himself at the court in Hillsborough County, Florida, has been jailed for life. He previously fired a series of questions at his former spouse Alisa Mathewson - who accused him of violence and sexual assault Alisa Mathewson held back her emotions while in the witness box at her husband's trial. She was assaulted and physically abused over the course of two days when he kidnapped her. He will now spend life behind bars At the time of the attack, the couple lived in different homes - since they were estranged and and in the process of divorcing Mathewson was physically abused over the course of two days when he kidnapped her. The couple lived in different homes - since they were estranged and in the process of divorcing at the time. When asked by her abusive ex-husband if he forced her to have sex with him, Mathewson told the court: 'You broke into my home in the middle of the night when I was sleeping, attacked me, and tied me up!' 'I take that as yes, you threatened me to have sex with you! Yes!' Holding back her emotions, the ex-wife added: 'Prior to having sex, you did push me, you did hold me down, you did tie me up, you did attack me, and you did break into my home when I was sleeping! You raped me!' The defendant then asked: 'So you're calling it rape?' She responded: 'It is. That is the definition of rape to come into someone's home and attack them and tie them up and then have sex with them! That is the definition of rape.' After entering the house, Summers sent the children to his own property and proceeded to tie Summers up by her wrists and ankles using scarves - before putting a sock in her mouth and wrapping her entire body in nylon rope, she claims. Court heard that he then used Christmas lights to tie her to the bed frame. The ex-husband then allegedly tried to kill her by smothering her with a pillow until she lost consciousness. Trevor Steven Summers and his ex-wife in a photo posted to social media in July 2016. He has been found guilty on all 11 counts including two counts of attempted first-degree murder Summers asked share five children together Pictured: Alisa's dark blue Saturn Outlook, which she was bundled into during the kidnapping. She briefly tried to escape during a stop at a Walgreens, where an employee testified that he witnessed the ordeal and called 911 During the cross examination, Summers asked Mathewson if they ever used scarves during their sexual activity - since this was how she alleges he tied her up during the rape and attack he faces trial for. She responded: 'I dont recall a single instance. I dont recall any.' During the horrifying two-day ordeal in 2017, screaming Mathewson was hogtied and forced into a car, while her ex-husband drove through several counties. At one point, she attempted to escape while he stopped at a Walgreens parking lot, but he forced her back into the vehicle and sliced one of her wrists as punishment. A Walgreens employee witnessed the ordeal and called 911 at the time. He then took her to a field in Manatee County, Florida, to hide from law enforcements - but the kidnapper ran out of food and water. He was also going to take her on a chartered boat, but he brought her to a 'safe house' instead. Mathewson told the jury at the trial: 'You broke into my home in the middle of the night when I was sleeping, attacked me, and tied me up!' Trevor Steven Summers' mugshot. A slash can be seen on his neck. Summers took a razor blade started slitting his own throat, saying: 'This is what love is. Im laying my life down for you. You dont deserve this' during the kidnapping After an argument inside the car, Summer then started strangling his ex-wife with a rope but Mathewson was able to get him off, despite having her hands tied. It was at this moment that the kidnapped ex-wife spotted a cop car. When he saw the unmarked police car, Summers took the same razor blade he used to slice her wrist and started slitting his own throat, saying: 'This is what love is. Im laying my life down for you. You dont deserve this.' Mathewson recalled the bloody ordeal - and said she begged the defendant to stop. He said he would cut the ropes off her, but she was able to get her hand out of the loop as law enforcement encircled the car. She testified: 'And at this point, law enforcement surrounded the vehicle. My door opened. I was grabbed and taken out.' Norwich City Council was met with furious backlash from women's rights activists after declaring 'transphobic extremists' are 'not welcome' in the city. The council on Thursday unanimously passed a motion reaffirming gender identity for transgender and non-binary people. Councillor Alex Catt, who is part of the Green Party, took to Twitter to tout the measure, saying he was 'thrilled' the trans community was being supported. He also declared that those who oppose trans rights are not welcome in Norwich. Norwich Women's Rights Group challenged the legality motion and demanded the council clarify how it will 'ensure the safety, privacy and dignity of women and girls' in wake of the inclusion policy. The group also argued Cllr Catt's tweet featured a 'combative tone' and that the council's message surrounding 'transphobia and homophobia' was 'concerning and undemocratic.' Norwich City Council on Thursday unanimously passed a motion reaffirming gender identity for transgender and non-binary people The council was met with furious backlash from women's rights activists after Councillor Alex Catt issued a tweet declaring 'transphobic extremists' are 'not welcome' in the city Cllr Catt announced the council's passage of the trans inclusion motion on Thursday. 'Thrilled that our motion supporting the trans community was passed unanimously by Norwich City Council!' he tweeted. 'The council states clearly that trans women are women, trans men are men and non-binary people are non-binary.' The councillor added: 'Transphobic extremists are not welcome in Norwich!' The tweet prompted backlash from the women's rights group, as well as Norwich residents, who allege the newly passed motion could put biological females at risk. 'Norwich Womens Rights Group challenge Norwich Councillors to clarify how they will ensure the safety, privacy and dignity of women and girls,' the group said in a statement provided to MailOnline. 'We remind the Council of their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 to respect all 9 protected characteristics, including sex, age, disability and belief. Norwich Women's Rights Group noted that it is 'easy to spout mantras, feel righteous and gain adulation from loud activists,' but argued the council needs to realise its 'policy has profound consequences for women and girls' 'The Council does not define trans or non-binary, which means self-ID. This is not the law. It is a proven risk factor to women and girls. If any man can call himself a woman, all single-sex spaces become mixed-sex. 'It is not lawful to discriminate on the grounds of belief. We call upon the Council and unions to ensure that no employee will suffer discrimination if they do not share the councils credo. The group added: 'The combative tone of Cllr Catts tweet and Council Leader Mike Stonards suggestion that any queries arise from transphobia and homophobia is concerning and undemocratic.' The activist group further called out the council on Twitter, saying they wanted officials to answers queries about the implications of the new ruling. The group's questions included: If trans women are women (TWAW) does that mean that the women-only swimming session in the council-run Riverside leisure centre is open to anyone who says they are a woman and it doesnt matter if Muslim women and others stay away as a result? If TWAW does that mean that severely disabled women should have intimate care from anyone who says they are a woman? Should DV shelters for women admit anyone who says they are a woman? If TWAW how can you support the legal and human rights of council employees who do not agree with this faith system and speak out for womens rights and single-sex services? How can you protect those people from harassment and abuse? If TWAW and anyone who says they're a woman can use spaces for vulnerable women, how can you keep women safe from predators who will use any loophole to access potential victims? If TWAW does that mean that the council would support housing vulnerable homeless women in emergency dormitory accommodation alongside anyone who says they are a woman? Norwich Women's Rights Group noted that it is 'easy to spout mantras, feel righteous and gain adulation from loud activists,' but argued the council needs to realise its 'policy has profound consequences for women and girls.' The group's criticisms were further echoed online by Brits who argued the 'mad' Norwich City Council's policy is 'unlawful.' 'This would be unlawful,' Twitter user @historywoman wrote in response to the policy. 'The 2010 Equality Act allows anyone to treat transwomen as men for specific purposes of the act. 'If Norwich City Council calls people transphobes or makes them feel unwelcome for upholding the act it's unlawful harassment/discrimination. Feel free to sue.' The council was also slammed for allegedly failing to focus on issues that 'improve the lives' of Norwich residents. 'Know what, Norwich City council, do the jobs you were elected to do (and are well paid for), serve every person in the area,' wrote Caroline Hamilton. 'Clean streets, clean drains, public ladies loos without blokes wandering in and out, things like that - did your electorate vote for this? Doubt it.' Criticisms were further echoed online by Brits who argued the 'mad' Norwich City Council's policy is 'unlawful' Twitter user @FinnersIsTired chimed in, saying: 'Well, if Norwich City Council says so, I guess feminists, biologists, science in general and about 600 million years of evolution should all just go home. 'Or they could try doing things to actually improve the lives of people in the city.' Other social media users slammed the council for being composed of a 'bunch of reality-denying lunatics.' 'I'm thrilled to announce that Norwich City Council loves dogma,' wrote Helen Nettleship. 'Law, biological reality, women's sex based rights, safeguarding, free speech and democracy are not welcome in Norwich!' 'Norwich City Council have stated: men are women and women are men. Next week: gravity doesn't exist and if you aren't floating you're a bigot,' tweeted Pam Harma. Breakfast Show presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer added: 'Norwich City Council are mad as a box of frogs. Up is down. Black is white. Truth is lies. War is peace. Bonkers.' Paul Enbery echoed the sentiment, concluding: 'Norwich City Council should be taken into special measures. It is plainly being run by a bunch of reality-denying lunatics.' More polls showed Labour with massive leads tonight after 'mini-Budget' triggered mayhem on the markets and fears over mortgages spiralling out of control. Research by Redfield & Wilton Strategies found a staggering 28-point advantage, with Keir Starmer's party backed by 52 per cent of the public. That was up six points on last week, while the Conservatives were down five on just 24 per cent. Worryingly for Liz Truss, less than a month after she entered No10 she was 14 points behind Sir Keir on who would make the best PM - a worse rating than Boris Johnson during Partygate. A separate survey by Savanta was nearly as bad, recording a 25-point gulf between the main parties. Both would be enough for a huge Labour landslide, and come hot on the heels of others suggesting the divide is as much as 33 points. The grim findings came as Kwasi Kwarteng tried to laugh off the extraordinary climbdown on plans to scrap the top rate of tax - which came after the polls were conducted - as he delivered his Tory conference speech. Research by Redfield & Wilton Strategies found a staggering 28-point advantage, with Keir Starmer's party backed by 52 per cent of the public A separate survey by Savanta was nearly as bad, recording a 25-point gulf between the main parties The Chancellor quipped 'what a day' as he started his address to the party faithful in Birmingham - before appealing for them to 'move on' with 'no more distractions'. His appearance came after a tumultuous 24 hours in which the Chancellor and Prime Minister Liz Truss had first defended their decision to abolish the 45p top income tax rate and then capitulated in the face of widespread opposition and reinstated it. Mr Kwarteng has had to tear up his text after the intense political drama overnight that saw him drop the commitment for people earning more than 150,000 a year, after it became clear dozens of MPs would refuse to back the move in the Commons. But watched by the PM, he swiftly went on the attack this evening as he swiped at the 'slow managed decline' under his predecessor Rishi Sunak. 'What a day. It has been tough but we need to focus on the job in hand,' he said. 'We need to move forward. No more distractions. We have a plan and we need to get on and deliver it. That is what the public expect from the Government.' He sought to portray the Conservative Party as 'serious custodians of the public purse', saying: 'There is no path to higher sustainable growth without fiscal responsibility. 'Conservatives have always known this and we know it still. And it is because we are Conservatives that we remain absolutely committed to being serious custodians of the public purse. This is what defines us and separates us from the Labour Party.' Water companies that dump sewage in rivers and seas will face fines of up to 250 million, the new Environment Secretary has vowed, as part of plans to clean up UK waters. Ranil Jayawardena warned water company chiefs that if they do not do more to prevent effluent flowing into open water, he will institute an up to 1,000-fold increase in civil fines. He was set to tell the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham on Monday: 'On my first day in office I met water company bosses to give them their report card. I'll be polite: could do better. 'I asked them to write to me with their plans to accelerate investment in infrastructure. They did and now they must deliver. Water companies that dump sewage in rivers and seas will face fines of up to 250 million, the new Environment Secretary has vowed. The above map shows which areas in the UK have a pollution risk warning in place (designated in red) and where no water quality alerts in place (designated in green) There has been growing public outrage in recent years at the volume of raw or partially treated sewage pumped into the UK's rivers and coastal waters. Pictured: Disused sewage pipes at Morecambe in August 2022 'Privatisation has put in 170 billion of investment into our water infrastructure already, and the private sector will now put in another 56 billion more. 'And, if they don't deliver, I can confirm to you today that we will take forward plans to lift the Environment Agency's maximum civil fine for each individual breach of the rules from up to just 250,000, to up to 250 million.' The plan involves launching a formal consultation on lifting the current 250,000 cap for Environment Agency fines for water firms that breach environmental rules. There has been growing public outrage in recent years at the volume of raw or partially treated sewage pumped into the UK's rivers and coastal waters. Water firms are being criticised for not investing money back into the UK's outdated water infrastructure, with mounting pressure on ministers to intervene. New Environment Secretary Ranil Jayawardena (pictured) has warned water companies they could face up to 250million fines if they breach environmental rules Water firms are being criticised for not investing money back into the UK's outdated water infrastructure, with mounting pressure on ministers to intervene. Pictured: Wastewater being discharged into the Swale from nearby paper mills in Kemsley, Kent in July 2017 At Labour's conference last week, Shadow Environment Secretary Jim McMahon said water bosses would face prison sentences for the worst pollution incidents under a Labour government. Pictured: Untreated water is being pumped in the sea near Bexhill East Sussex in August 2022 Under Boris Johnson's leadership, the Conservative Government outlined plans to crack down on spills by requiring utility companies to invest 56 billion over 25 years to combat the impact of storm overflows. At Labour's conference last week, Shadow Environment Secretary Jim McMahon said water bosses would face prison sentences for the worst pollution incidents under a Labour government. He said his party would introduce a legally binding target to end 90% of sewage discharges by 2030 and stronger sanctions and fines for bosses and companies who fail to do so. Labour also attacked Prime Minister Liz Truss's record while she was Environment Secretary, blaming her for 24 million of funding cuts for environmental protection, including surveillance of water companies to prevent sewage dumping. Eleven water companies are forced to give customers money off their bills... so is yours on the list? Up to 150m will be returned to households as suppliers are fined by Ofwat for missing targets and polluting rivers Water firms are blasted for falling short of standards, regulator boss says It comes amid intense scrutiny on companies following numerous sewage leaks Customers in six other organisations, not fined, will see their bills increase Council chiefs have now demanded that water companies 'clean up their acts' By Tom Cotterill For Mailonline Thousands of customers with 11 water firms are set to set to see money slashed off their bills after fines of almost 150 million were handed out by regulator Ofwat. The action was taken after suppliers failed to meet target areas such as water supply interruptions, pollution incidents and internal sewer flooding. Thames Water and Southern Water performed the worst and will have to return almost 80 million to customers. It comes after sewage discharges, packed with faces-laden storm water, were pumped into coastal beauty spots along the south east of England. The pair of companies cover tens of millions of households across Greater London, the Thames Valley and along the south coast, in Sussex and parts of Hampshire. News of the fines has been welcomed by campaigners from Surfers Against Sewage who said the punishment was a 'damning indictment' of how some water companies treat their customers. Eleven water firms have been ordered to pay back 150 million to customers across the nation for failing to meet key targets - which included the amount of sewage pumped out into seas. Pictured is sewage pouring into the North Sea Thames Water and Southern Water performed the worst and will have to return almost 80 million to customers between them. Pictured is wastewater being discharged into the Swale from nearby paper mills, Kemsley, Kent David Black, the chief executive of regulator Ofwat for England and Wales, said 'too many water companies are falling short' of the standards Huge Tagholm, chief executive of SAS, told MailOnline: 'Water companies are being forced to give back money to bill payers as a result of failing to adequately protect the environment. 'They seem to be experts at polluting. They simply haven't done their job properly again putting profits ahead of protecting our rivers and seas. 'This is a damning indictment of how they treat their customers cash pocketing rather than investing in the solutions to end sewage pollution, protect our environment and safeguard all those that use and depend on clean water. 'It's high time their profits were capped until they sort out the stink coming from their woeful performance.' On social media, the reaction was mixed. One user tweeted: '28mil is chump change but will hopefully remind @SouthernWater that [their] disingenuous reputation is still firmly in the gutter & nothing short of wholesale change is essential.' While another commented: 'I'd rather they didn't pollute in the first place. They need to clear up now ...@thameswater @SouthernWater !!!' Although 11 companies have been fined, others which exceeded their targets will be able to recover more money from customers, meaning they could see their bills go up. Water firms told to cut costs for customers Thames Water 51m Southern Water 28.3m Northumbrian Water 20.3m Yorkshire Water 15.2m South West Water 13.3m Anglian Water 8.5m Dwr Cymru 8m South East Water 3.2m Affinity Water 0.8m Hafren Dyfrdwy 0.4m SES Water 0.3m Advertisement Severn Trent Water, which supplies millions of people with water across England, performed particularly well in the regulator's review and will be able to increase customer payments by 63 million in the year ahead. But Ofwat noted all firms would be allowed to boost charges in line with inflation, using the consumer prices index including owner occupiers' housing costs (CPIH) - which hit 8.6 per cent in the 12 months to August. This means that some reductions could be offset by inflation-linked price rises in customers' bills. David Black, the chief executive of Ofwat for England and Wales, said: 'When it comes to delivering for their customers, too many water companies are falling short, and we are requiring them to return around 150 million to their customers. 'We expect companies to improve their performance every year; where they fail to do so, we will hold them to account. 'The poorest performers, Southern Water and Thames Water, will have to return almost 80 million to their customers. 'All water companies need to earn back the trust of customers and the public and we will continue to challenge the sector to improve.' The news comes amid intense scrutiny of water companies following sewage discharges across the nation, with have led to fury in coastal communities in the south-east of England. On Sunday, hundreds environmental campaigners took to Bexhill beach, in East Sussex, to create a human chain following a large discharge of sewage at the site. Protesters have also taken to the streets and beaches across the city of Portsmouth over the amount of sewage dumped in and around the Solent. The main sticking point is Langstone Harbour, which has previously seen vast amounts of faeces-laden discharge being pumped out into the coastal beauty spot. Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said residents were sick and tired of it. Speaking to MailOnline, Cllr Vernon-Jackson said: 'People here are furious. They are swimming in sewage. The release of sewage water across coastal communities in the south-east of England have left people furious. This discharge of untreated sewage in Bexhill, East Sussex, in August sparked a protest on Sunday, with people creating a human chain on the beach. Campaigners have demanded that infrastructure is upgraded to stop leaks and sewage discharges. Pictured are disused sewage pipes at Morecambe Bay 'It's not good enough that when I go and see Southern Water, they are incredibly proud that they have only released raw sewage 1,000 times this year into Langstone Harbour. They think it's brilliant. It's not brilliant. People are swimming in sewage.' Sewage has also been expelled on beaches across East and West Sussex, with human excrement having been pumped out in the sea around Littlehampton, Shoreham and Hove. Water companies that can hike their costs Severn Trent Water 62.9m United Utilities 24.1m Wessex Water 4.4m South Staffs Water 3.0m Portsmouth Water 0.8m Bristol Water 0.6m Advertisement Councillor Neil Parkin, leader of Adur District Council - which covers Shoreham - demanded water companies 'cleaned their acts up'. Speaking to MailOnline, Cllr Parkin said: 'It's the same old excuses all the time and there doesn't seem to be any change. It's the ultimate groundhog day. 'The reason that Southern Water gives is that when we have a big storms, if they didn't release the sewage, homes would flood. 'Well, I've been leader of the council for over 20 years and it's been the same old excuse during all this time. 'It's about time they did something to get their acts together. They need to invest a bit more in the infrastructure, not giving millions to their shareholders. Ofwat's review follows a period of drought and with some areas of the country facing hosepipe bans during the summer heatwaves. Mr Black said in August that targets for areas such as leaks are 'challenging but achievable', revealing that he did have concerns about the performance of some companies. The yearly targets were set at the regulator's last price review in 2019 and will be in place up until the next review in 2025. Customers should see their bills reduced in 2023 to 2024. MailOnline has approached Southern Water for comment. Upcoming events include 'Ecstatic Dance and Cuddles' on October 16 and a 'Where The Wild Things Are Halloween Party' on October 29 Ivey's retreats are hosted at the $955,000 'dome home' he shares with domestic partner Katie Kovacich, two other women, and a male friend in the Seattle area Advertisement One of Marjorie Taylor Greene's former lovers is offering tantric sex retreats and 'ecstatic cuddle' classes at his commune in Washington State, DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal. Craig Ivey, 44, was dubbed the 'polyamorous tantric sex guru' when DailyMail.com exclusively exposed his affair with the QAnon supporting congresswoman last year. He was one of two men who the now-congresswoman enjoyed extramarital flings with in 2012 after meeting them at her gym in Alpharetta, Georgia. Ivey's classes have started just as his former lover is sued for divorce by Perry Greene, her husband of 27 years. Ivey advertises the workshops which are hosted at the $955,000 'dome home' he shares with domestic partner Katie Kovacich, two other women, and a male friend via his Facebook page. Marjorie Taylor Greene's former lover Craig Ivey was snapped grabbing food and running errands near his South Prairie, Washington home amid the congresswoman's divorce Ivey, who was revealed to have had an affair with Greene in 2012, was wearing gold lame leggings and a neon yellow tank top accessorized with a fanny pack for the outing, DailyMail.com photos show Greene's husband of 27 years, Perry Greene (pictured together) filed for a formal split on Tuesday after nearly three decades of marriage - and just weeks before November's midterm elections The first, which was called 'Awakening Love: A Luminous Experience,' took place 10 days ago and invited participants to 'embody bliss, sensuality and open hearts'. According to Ivey, the three-day workshop involved 'integrating classical tantra, neo tantra, sacred sexuality and spirituality'. He added: 'This unique container is designed to progressively deepen intimacy and conscious connection within ourselves and others in ways that enliven our hearts and transform our lives.' Musclebound Ivey is also using the property to run his X-rated OnlyFans page which includes multiple shots of him naked in nature and a 'sex positive' Facebook group called 'the Kaleidoscopic Community' which offers a variety of activities, including tantric dance classes and nature rambles that include naked swimming sessions. Medical News Today defines tantric sex as a 'slow, meditative form of sex where the end goal is not orgasm but enjoying the sexual journey and sensations of the body.' Upcoming events include 'Ecstatic Dance and Cuddles' on October 16 and a 'Where The Wild Things Are Halloween Party' on October 29. For extra income, the 44-year-old hosts paying guests at a $130-a-night Mongolian 'soul yurt' that he built on his 40-acre property. Now listed on Airbnb, it boasts a cedar hot tub and comes with access to the 'community spaces' in his dome home. Ivey first made headlines in 2021 after DailyMail.com revealed he had a steamy affair with mom-of-three Taylor Greene, now 48, in 2012. She also had an affair with gym manager Justin Tway, 44, around the same time. At the time she had filed for divorce, demanding shared custody of their children and half of their assets, but the couple reconciled. But in September that year, the divorce was abruptly called off. Later, Ivey was also seen treating himself to a pizza after picking up a car battery at a local Costco on Friday night Ivey is currently offering tantric sex retreats and 'ecstatic cuddle' classes at his commune in Washington State Despite noting that he is 'back in the news' on his Twitter page after Taylor Greene's divorce was reported, Ivey declined to comment when approached by DailyMail.com Ivey was joined for dinner by one of his female roommates, fitness devotee Leilani York Early last month, Ivey promoted his 'Awakening Love: A Luminous Experience' class on his Facebook page, inviting participants to 'embody bliss, sensuality and open hearts' Despite noting he is 'back in the news' on his Twitter page after Taylor Greene's divorce was reported, Ivey declined to comment when approached by DailyMail.com during a visit to a local branch of Costco where he was seen purchasing a car battery. He was wearing gold lame leggings and a neon yellow tank top accessorized with a fanny pack for the outing, and was also seen treating himself to a pizza and was joined for dinner by one of his female roommates, fitness devotee Leilani York. He has previously discussed his fling with Taylor Greene on his social media accounts where he posts photographs of himself in varying states of undress and goes by the username, 'the_tantric_warrior'. In February 2021, shortly after DailyMail.com revealed his affair with Taylor Greene, he said he was proud to be polyamorous and knew Taylor Greene was 'a kind spirit that wanted to help people through building community and reaching health goals.' He added: 'There was never discussion of politics,' he said. 'It does sadden me to see the type of person she has chosen to become,' he added. 'I feel like I knew her at her best and unfortunately she has drifted far from that life. I still wish her the best.' Following his own split from Taylor Greene, Ivey moved to Seattle, where he worked at a series of cross-fit gyms as a trainer while living in a battered trailer parked outside York's former home in Renton. Along with York, Kovacich, relationship counselor Gwendolyn Brown, and IT manager Paul Youngberg, Ivey now lives in a communal property dubbed the 'Geoclectic Grove' by its occupants. When not hosting tantric sex classes, Ivey takes part in and teaches medieval combat which involves sword fighting while dressed in a suit of armor. According to his Facebook page, he also enjoys attending Middle Ages-themed Renaissance Faires and recently attended one dressed in a maroon and beige tabard. Upcoming events include 'Ecstatic Dance and Cuddles' on October 16 and a 'Where The Wild Things Are Halloween Party' on October 29 Ivey now lives in a communal property dubbed the 'Geoclectic Grove' by its occupants in the Seattle area When not hosting tantric sex classes, Ivey takes part in and teaches medieval combat which involves sword fighting while dressed in a suit of armor Perry Greene filed for divorce last week, more than 10 years after the couple had reconciled. They two met when they were students at the University of Georgia and have have two daughters, aged 23 and 25, and a son, 19. Although the divorce documents do not reveal explicitly what led to the couple's split, Perry Greene states that the pair had separated in the past. Just as she had asked in 2012, Perry asked the court to split their assets equally. He asked that the remainder of the divorce proceeding be filed under seal, because divorce proceedings are public in Georgia, and a gag order be placed on the case, 'restraining parties, attorneys, witnesses, and court personnel from releasing information to the public concerning the proceedings relating to the above styled action,' court records say. Greene's lawyer, Allen Harris wrote that he expects there will be certain pleadings, affidavits, and other documents filed in this case such that the record will contain sensitive personal and financial information, the public disclosure of which would negatively impact the parties' privacy interests.' He asked that the judge seal the records for at least the next 25 years. On Monday, however, Greene seemed to have a change of heart regarding the secrecy surrounding the records because he withdrew the request without explanation ahead of a 4pm hearing on the matter. Neither Taylor Greene nor her husband have been living in either of their Alpharetta or Rome homes in Georgia since the divorce was filed. Taylor Greene issued a statement about the split. 'Marriage is a wonderful thing and I'm a firm believer in it. Our society is formed by a husband and wife creating a family to nurture and protect,' she said. 'Together, Perry and I formed our family and raised three great kids. He gave me the best job title you can ever earn: Mom. I'll always be grateful for how great of a dad he is to our children.' Marjorie's men: The mother-of-three had an affair with polyamorous tantric sex guru Craig Ivey (left) before moving on to gym manager Justin Tway (right) while working at a gym in Alpharetta in 2012 Marjorie Taylor Greene's husband, Perry Greene, is filing for divorce from the 48-year-old Georgia congresswoman The petition to file for divorce came a little over a month before the midterm election - in which she is standing. It is now not clear where Taylor Greene is living. At her white house in Rome, Georgia, where she moved to establish residency in the state's 14th Congressional District, garbage cans at the end of the driveway were not moved for a week and packages remained on the front porch. In Alpharetta, about an hour and a half away, where her husband still runs the construction company, Taylor Commercial, founded by her father, one of her daughters made it known that they did not want to discuss the dissolution of the marriage. The congresswoman's angry spokesman later called DailyMail.com and yelled: 'You work for an immature publication that writes about communism.' A call has been issued for evidence about what was known about Tim Westwood's conduct during his time at the BBC. Gemma White, the barrister leading the investigation into the former hip hop DJ, who has been accused of a string of sexual assaults against women, is urging people with information about his time at the broadcaster to come forward. She was appointed by the BBC Board in August to lead an independent review after an internal investigation found the corporation should have further explored issues raised at the time. Westwood, who left the BBC in 2013 after nearly two decades, also stepped down from his show on Capital Xtra in April after the initial claims came to light. The 65-year-old has 'strongly' denied any wrongdoing. DJ Tim Westwood, who left the BBC in 2013 after nearly two decades, also stepped down from his show on Capital Xtra in April after the initial claims came to light The call for evidence requests information about 'any allegations or concerns about the conduct of Tim Westwood during any time he worked for the BBC', whether or not the allegations or concerns were raised with the BBC at the time. It also asks for information about any knowledge the BBC may have had about those allegations or concerns, and any response the BBC may have made at the time. The call urges those who know 'any reasons for which allegations or concerns were not raised with the BBC' to come forward. The investigation, announced in August, is intended to be completed in six months and the BBC has said it is willing to work with Westwood's other employers, which include MTV and Capital Xtra-owner Global, to establish what happened. In July, the BBC said it had received six complaints against Westwood, including one that was referred to police, despite director-general Tim Davie previously saying he had seen 'no evidence of complaints'. Mr Davie launched an internal audit, reporting to the BBC board's senior independent director, Sir Nicholas Serota. The independent investigation, announced in August, is intended to be completed in six months and the BBC has said it is willing to work with Westwood's other employers A statement from a representative of Westwood to the PA news agency in April said: 'Tim Westwood strongly denies all allegations of inappropriate behaviour. 'In a career that has spanned 40 years, there have never been any complaints made against him officially or unofficially. 'Tim Westwood strongly rejects all allegations of wrongdoing.' His representatives have been contacted for further comment. The DJ, who is the son of Bill Westwood, the former Anglican bishop of Peterborough - who died in 1999 - began his career on local radio before joining Capital Radio in London. He was later given his own show by BBC Radio 1. He left Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra in 2013 after nearly 20 years and returned to Capital Xtra to host a regular show on Saturday nights, where he was referred to as 'The Big Dawg'. Advertisement The Ukrainian refugee dumped by her British lover after he left his partner and two children for her flew back to the war-torn country tonight. Sofiia Karkadym, 22, still tearful after her break-up with security guard Tony Garnett, boarded a plane home from Manchester Airport. She is travelling to Ukraine via Poland. Ms Karkadym was seen off at the airport by Mr Garnett, 30, who ended their four-month relationship after accusing her of getting repeatedly drunk and stabbing a kitchen wall with a knife at the rented home in Bradford, West Yorks. She said she was still hopeful that Mr Garnett might change his mind right up until the moment she boarded the flight. Sofiia Karkadym, 22, (left) still tearful after her break-up with security guard Tony Garnett (right), boarded a plane home from Manchester Airport on Monday Ms Karkadym (pictured) was seen off at the airport by Mr Garnett, 30, who ended their four-month relationship after accusing her of getting repeatedly drunk and stabbing a kitchen wall with a knife at the rented home in Bradford, West Yorks. In the early stages of their fling, the pair were blissfully happy and even talked about marriage and spending the rest of their lives together. But the romance turned cold after a series of arguments which he said were caused by her drinking strong beer and throwing temper tantrums. Mr Garnett is pictured at the airport on Monday Ms Karkadym and Mr Garnett hug goodbye at the Manchester Airport on Monday Mr Garnett carries Ms Karkadym's luggage as she waits in the bag-drop queue at Manchester Airport on Monday Ms Karkadym told MailOnline at the airport: I have booked a return ticket because it was only a few pounds more than a single ticket. I can only come back if Tony changes his mind which Im still hoping he will. There is no other man for me and Ive asked him not to meet any other girls if he can help it because we might still be able to work it out. We can talk in the future. I love Tony more than words can tell you. I have told him that I am sorry that I have hurt him too. She added: I am sorry for everything thats happened and only understand now how much Tony has done for me. Im very sorry for everything that has happened. I wish I could change his mind. She said she was, however, looking forward to seeing her family again, particularly her grandmother who was celebrating her birthday. I have bought her a gift and cant wait to hug her. The now ex-lovers struck up an affair 10 days after she arrived at the home of Mr Garnett and his partner Lorna Garnett. Ms Karkadym had fled the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Mr Garnett and Ms Karkadym admitted that they were attracted to each other and moved out of the family home and in with his parents before finding a place to rent. In the early stages of their fling, the pair were blissfully happy and even talked about marriage and spending the rest of their lives together. But the romance turned cold after a series of arguments which he said were caused by her drinking strong beer and throwing temper tantrums. Ms Karkadym (left) and Mr Garnett (right) are talking as they walk through Manchester Airport on Monday Ms Karkadym is pictured at the Ryanair ticketing counter at Manchester Airport on Monday with Mr Garnett by her side Mr Garnett carries Ms Karkadym's luggage as he drops her off at the Manchester Airport on Monday Ms Karkadym told MailOnline at the airport: I have booked a return ticket because it was only a few pounds more than a single ticket. I can only come back if Tony changes his mind which Im still hoping he will' Ms Karkadym added: I am sorry for everything thats happened and only understand now how much Tony has done for me. Im very sorry for everything that has happened. I wish I could change his mind' Mr Garnett reiterated that the pair are 'over,' telling MailOnline: Her refugee visa is running out and she said shes going to apply for a new one. Thats fine with me. I dont have an issue with that as long as she doesnt come near me again' Ms Karkadym admitted that she found the fact difficult that he could not have more children (he has had a vasectomy) and that he already had two kids with his ex-partner, who he regularly talked fondly about. But Mr Garnett said: Her refugee visa is running out and she said shes going to apply for a new one. Thats fine with me. I dont have an issue with that as long as she doesnt come near me again. Shes been arrested twice at my house and turned up late at night as well. The other night she even turned up at a friends' house where I was having dinner and banged on the door. I still dont know how she found out I was there. But I just had to apologise to my friend and take her back to her hotel where the police had put her. Ive reminded her that if she gets arrested again and gets a criminal record in the UK, she might not be allowed back into the country at all. She has to learn to understand the rules of the law as well as the rules of a break-up. We are over. It sounds cold I know. But I have to get on with my life. I have to be allowed to see my daughters again as I am the subject of a non-molestation order which Im hoping will get lifted on Thursday. These last five months since I left Lorna and the kids have been absolutely nutty, a real rollercoaster. The now ex-lovers struck up an affair 10 days after she arrived at the home of Mr Garnett (left) and his partner Lorna Garnett (right). Ms Karkadym had fled the Russian invasion of Ukraine Ms Karkadym admitted that she found the fact difficult that Mr Garnett could not have more children (he has had a vasectomy) and that he already had two kids with his ex-partner, who he regularly talked fondly about. The former couple are pictured together Mr Garnett, pictured with Ms Karkadym, said he had no intention of beginning a new relationship soon He continued: At one stage I thought I was going to marry Sofiia, but it started to go wrong with her heavy-drinking and I think subconsciously she was missing her family too. I know they miss her. Her mother has told me. I am hoping that she will be safe over there. If she comes back and begins a new relationship with somebody, that will be fine by me. But she must give up the hope that we are going to be a couple again. Its just not going to happen.' Mr Garnett, who is heavily tattooed including a heart on his right cheek, said he had been inundated with offers of sex and love from women through his Instagram account. He added: People might see me as some uncaring sort of b*****d, but I am far from it. I have tried to help her through this break up. Sometimes she has been really easy to talk to, on other times shes been really hell. 'Theres no in-between with her. There doesnt seem to be a filter there. I am just thanking God that shes on that plane and I dont have to have my phone pinging at all hours or her just turning up. Mr Garnett said he had no intention of beginning a new relationship soon. He added: I havent been able to sleep with myself, let alone sleep with anybody else. I just need some me time to get to be with my daughters again. I really miss them. They were one of the reasons that Sofiia and I fell out. She didnt like me talking about them. But they come before everything. I always knew the decision to depose Boris Johnson by his own pathetic and gutless MPs could turn out to be electoral suicide for the Conservative party. But even I thought this feckless mob would give his successor Liz Truss more than 26 days to prove her bold and, yes, fundamentally different policy approach to economic growth including reducing the biggest tax burden on Brits in 70 years could actually work. Thats the problem once your day-to-day agenda is hijacked by the Westminster establishment, theres no going back. They have deemed Truss to be finished before shes even begun because shes shown the sort of weakness the usual suspects can and will painfully exploit every day until the next election. Following todays mortifying Kwasi Kwarteng U-turn on slashing the top rate of tax to the same level it was under that far right Prime Minister Tony Blair, I have no doubt that she has lost temporarily control of government. 'Even I thought this feckless mob would give Liz Truss more than 26 days to prove her bold and, yes, fundamentally different policy approach to economic growth' The wet remoaner Tory elite, the political class, the British Bashing Corporation, Sly News and the Twitter keyboard warriors have now taken control. Truss needed to be brave enough to ignore them all, safe in the knowledge they are not only rooting for her to fail, theyre doing all they can to make that happen as quickly as possible. What they want is a socialist lite caretaker government. Effectively complete inertia for two years before Keir Starmer sweeps to power to destroy the economy, with his ludicrous eco extreme policies that have received virtually no media scrutiny. Instead, all the attention is once again on the melodrama of the collapsing Tory party, with permanently hysterical backbenchers already submitting letters of no confidence in Truss to the 1922 Committee. How ludicrous to even be discussing such a deranged action when the rules of the party state there can be no leadership contest against Truss in her first 12 months in office. 'The argument that the party needs five years in opposition to sort itself out doesnt wash I shudder to think what country theyll be facing by 2030 under Starmer' But what these fools really want is something quite chilling: Theyre already plotting a total overhaul of those rules so Tory MPs can select a new leader without any vote from party members who they seem to disdain. The end goal is parachuting in Rishi Sunak, their acceptable candidate, despite his overwhelming rejection by the party membership just weeks ago. Not only is such talk insane, its totally undemocratic. The irony is that Boris supporters like me who then backed Truss never wanted a leadership contest in the first place. But when the establishment didnt get the answer they wanted from the vote, it was obvious to me they would stop at nothing to roll her. Pictured: Dan Wootton As a result, the post-Boris Tory bloodlust is now out of control and will end with only one thing: Prime Minister Starmer, possibly propped up by the coalition from hell. A deal with the Lib Dems will usher in proportional representation; a union with the SNP will, well, end the union and hand 16-year-olds the vote; and if hes propped up by the Greens we can wave goodbye to ever flying or eating meat again. Thats why the Conservative civil war is so highly irresponsible. These are not normal times. The UK cannot afford to contemplate five years of woke Labour rule, let alone a decade. The argument that the party needs five years in opposition to sort itself out doesnt wash I shudder to think what country theyll be facing by 2030 under Starmer. Thats why the Tories would have been wise to unite behind Truss at their already disastrous party conference and debate policy, not personnel. That matter was settled over a very painful summer. Sick salivating over deposing their second Prime Minister in three months will only result in the Tories being on a certain path towards self-destruction. But that wont stop the snake Michael Gove doing all he can, in cahoots with his pals in the broadcast media and the establishment, to destabilise our new PM. To hell with his party. Actually to hell with the country, which he seems happy to become an international laughing stock in order to fuel his personal grudge match. The woman who very nearly became Tory leader Penny Mourdant put it best last night when she told an event in Birmingham: Our policy is great but our comms is s***. Problem is, with todays tax U-turn, Truss hasnt even attempted to defend the policy position. Instead, shes thrown both the policy and her Chancellor under the bus to deal with an unnecessarily hysterical media cycle. Even if you are opposed to the cut to the 45p tax rate, you should be very concerned about the prospect of government by media. Believe it or not, I felt desperately sorry for the emasculated Chancellor this afternoon, who had to deliver a conference speech that bore no resemblance to the new policy position enforced on him by his former BFF Truss. Kwarteng claimed people should keep more of the money they earn, despite his U-turn suggesting the total opposite. Its farcical that a Tory government in 2022 is considered irresponsible for wanting to return the top tax rate to the level it stayed under Tony Blair. And if you believe this 2 billion policy, which is actually proven to raise more money in the long-term, caused a market collapse when spending hundreds of billions on Covid lockdown policies didnt raise an eyebrow then youre being very naive. No, the shameful behaviour weve seen from most of our ruling class over the past week is devastating proof that they would rather advance their own petty political rows than try to salvage our economy. While I have strong criticism for the Prime Minister today, someone for whom I have a lot of respect, the party needs to get behind her rather than settling scores. They are now in the last chance saloon. Truss may not have proved she had the metal of Thatcher and seems to more closely resemble our disappointing second female leader Theresa May,but its critical she is given the support from her lawless MPs to get her mission back on track. They must all genuinely unite around Truss as she delivers the most important speech of her life on Wednesday, remembering she was backed overwhelmingly by members who want whats best for the country. Theres two years to go before the next election the economy will turn around and the true cost of Labours hard left agenda will be revealed. But the only way to defeat Starmer is if all Tories even you Mr Gove put personal ambition to one side for one Goddamn minute and do whats best for the country. The rescue team used cutters and power tools to get rid of the piece of metal It took more than an hour for doctors in the Nonthaburi province to remove it But the stainless wire ring cut off his circulation and he risked amputation The unnamed 35-year-old hoped it would make his genitals longer and thicker A Thai man who had a metal ring stuck on his penis for four months in a failed bid to make it bigger has finally had it removed by doctors after he suffered unbearable pain. The unnamed patient, 35, had reportedly wrapped the piece of metal around his genitals as he wrongly believed it would make it longer and thicker. Unfortunately, the stainless wire ring eventually cut off the circulation, causing it to swell and become sore. The man was rushed to the emergency room of the Krungthai General Hospital in Nonthaburi province in Thailand on October 1 after he complained that the pain in his penis had become too much to bear. A Thai man who had a metal ring stuck on his penis for four months in a failed bid to make it bigger has finally had it removed by doctors after he suffered unbearable pain The doctors, however, could not help him on their own, and had to call in volunteer firemen from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation to safely remove the ring. Wielding cutters and power tools, the rescue team crowded around the man's nether regions and proceeded to hack away at the constricting accessory. It took more than an hour for them to free the villager's penis as they were careful not to graze it with the sharp instruments. Doctors said the ring was removed just in time, as the man was on the verge of infection and was at risk of having his genitals amputated. Wielding cutters and power tools, the rescue team crowded around the man's nether regions and proceeded to hack away at the constricting accessory Somchai Chokchai, one of those from the rescue group involved in removing the ring, said: 'The man said he had been wearing the iron ring on his genitals for four months. 'He hoped that it would make his penis bigger but it became inflamed because the blood could not circulate easily. 'The patient said he had been using rings on his penis for four years but this was the first problem. 'The device was carefully removed because if we did it wrong, it could cut and injure him. The whole process took more than one hour.' Soldiers loyal to Capt. Ibrahim Traore are cheered in the streets of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Sunday. Burkina Faso's new junta leadership is calling for calm after the French Embassy and other buildings were attacked. AP-Yonhap Envoys from the West African bloc ECOWAS were heading to Burkina Faso on Monday after the jihadist-torn Sahel state underwent its second military coup in less than nine months. The streets of the capital Ouagadougou were quiet after a two-day showdown between military rivals jousting for power and a spurt of violent anti-French protests. The country's latest self-proclaimed leader is a 34-year-old captain, Ibrahim Traore, who seized the helm from Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, in power since January. Religious and community mediators said Damiba on Sunday had agreed to step down, two days after Traore declared he had been forced out. Regional diplomats said he had fled to Togo. ECOWAS _ the Economic Community of West African States _ issued a statement welcoming "a peaceful settlement of their differences" and announced it would dispatch a delegation to Ouagadougou on Monday. The team is headed by Guinea-Bissau Foreign Minister Suzi Carla Barbosa and includes former Niger president Mahamadou Issoufou, the bloc's mediator on Burkina Faso. Burkina is struggling with a seven-year-old jihadist campaign that has claimed thousands of lives, forced nearly two million people to flee their homes and left more than a third of the country outside government control. Anger within the army at failures to roll back the bloody insurgency prompted Damiba's coup against the elected president, Roch Marc Christian Kabore, on January 24. Appointing himself transitional president, Damiba vowed to make security the country's top priority but after a brief lull, attacks revived, claiming hundreds of lives. The mounting toll was cited by Traore as justification for the latest coup. Damiba on Sunday set "seven conditions" for stepping down, the religious and community leaders said. These included security guarantees for him and his allies in the military; and that the pledge he had given to ECOWAS for a return to civilian rule within two years be respected. Speaking on the French radio station RFI on Monday, Traore spelt out that he would uphold the July 2024 timeline for restoring civilian rule. This could even happen "before that date" if conditions were right, Traore said. He said that he would simply carry out "day-to-day business" until a new civilian or military transitional president was appointed. The appointment would be made by a national forum gathering political and social representatives, the pro-Traore faction in the military said on Sunday. Traore told RFI that this meeting would take place "well before the end of the year." Analysts said that his position, if maintained, would be likely to satisfy ECOWAS, which has suffered five coups in three of its 15 members since August 2020. Anti-French protests Burkina's latest bout of turmoil coincided with a surge of violent protests against France, the former colonial power and ally in Burkina's struggle against the jihadists. Pro-Traore officers accused Damiba of having taken refuge at a French military base in order to plot a "counter-offensive" _ charges he and France denied. On Sunday, security forces fired tear gas from inside the French embassy in Ouagadougou to disperse angry protesters, and the French Institute, which promotes French culture, was also attacked. The French foreign ministry said the attack was carried out by "hostile demonstrators manipulated by a disinformation campaign against us." Traore on Monday condemned what he called "acts of violence and vandalism" against those buildings and urged "calm and restraint." Damiba's claimed ouster on Friday was announced just hours after a protest rally that also demanded the end of France's military presence in the Sahel and closer military cooperation with Russia. Some of the protestors carried Russian flags. Russian paramilitaries are supporting regimes in Mali and Central African Republic _ sidelining France, those countries' traditional backer. But Russian troops have also been tarred with accusations of massacres and other abuses. On Monday, the Kremlin spokesman said Russia wanted the situation in Burkina "to normalize as soon as possible, for complete order to be ensured in the country and for a return to the framework of legitimacy as soon as possible." (AFP) Brazilian authorities have fined the uncle of a pregnant woman for pouring a dye on a waterfall to reveal the gender of her baby. Raijan Mascarello was hit with a 10,000 reals fine (a little over $1,900) Thursday by the Mato Grosso State Secretariat for the Environment because he had placed 'solid, liquid, or gaseous waste or debris, oils or substance oils' in the waterfall. The incident in question went viral September 25 after his niece and her husband invited friends and family to celebrate their baby's gender reveal at private property in the Mato Grosso municipality of Tangara da Serra. Mascarello told Globo Network's Fantastico weekly news show that he had warned the married couple before he dumped a dye that is used to add color to ornamental ponds and swimming pools. Ecstatic parents-to-be drew the ire of residents after deciding to dye an entire waterfall blue in honor of their baby's gender reveal party in Brazil. The pregnant woman's uncle was fined a little over $1,900 by the Mato Grosso State Secretariat for the Environment for placing 'solid, liquid, or gaseous waste or debris, oils or substance oils' in the waterfall' Raijan Mascarello appeared before the Mato Grosso State Secretariat for the Environment on Thursday and was fined 10,000 reals fine (a little over $1,900) for depositing a dye into a waterfall on a private property to celebrate his pregnant niece's gender reveal 'Do you think we would pollute water in a river? We made a deal, the most beautiful thing in the world and these (ecosystems),' Mascarello said. The proud uncle said that the product that he used was biodegradable and did not harm the environment. 'Just color (for) the water. Only that,' Mascarello said. 'I just (needed) authorization to do that and we didn't know. Next time I will ask for permission.' The parents-to-be took to social media to share videos of the event before deleting them due to a massive outcry. The town has experienced periods of drought which have affected its water supply, and so any contamination of the water source in the name of a gender reveal party would not be well-received by locals who depend on it. Outraged social media users brought the stunt to the attention of local authorities who have launched an investigation and sent a team to the waterfall They were accused of causing an environmental disaster in the river, which serves the nearby town Tangara da Serra in the state of Mato Grosso during their gender reveal party Outraged social media users brought the stunt to the attention of local authorities who have launched an investigation and sent a team to the waterfall before Mascarello was sanctioned. The stunt backfired with many on social media demanding that the couple should be arrested for an environmental crime. The Queima-Pe River waterfall and is 59 feet high. It is located almost four miles from the Tangara da Serra city center. The water falls from a stream that supplies the city. Concerned residents expressed fears over possible water contamination. However, samples taken from the river did not reveal any negative changes. The Los Angeles Democratic mayoral race between Karen Bass and billionaire Rick Caruso - and their clashes over the Church of Scientology - took center stage today at a hearing about the upcoming rape trial of That '70s Show star Danny Masterson. Jury selection for the trial is scheduled to start on October 11 at LA Superior Court's downtown criminal court where the Scientologist actor, 46, has pleaded not guilty to raping three women at his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003. But today, Masterson's attorney, Philip Cohen, asked Judge Charlaine Olmedo to postpone the trial until after the November 8 mayoral election, arguing that a jury could be prejudiced by remarks both candidates have made in campaign ads, condemning Scientology. One thing Bass and Caruso do agree on is that 'they don't like Scientology,' Cohen told the court. 'The public is being inundated with this (campaign ads) - it is a significant problem for Mr. Masterson.' That '70s Show actor Danny Masterson appeared in court today ahead of his rape trial in Los Angeles Masterson's lawyer Philip Cohen asked the judge to delay the trial until after the Los Angeles mayoral race on November 8. Both candidates - Karen Bass and Rick Caruso - have bashed the Church of Scientology in television ads In one campaign TV ad, Caruso used footage of his opponent Karen Bass at a Scientology event and splices in clips that seem to indicate that she supports the controversial church. Bass responded in her own ad, saying she does not support the church and insisted, 'Everybody knows Karen Bass condemns Scientology' In one campaign TV ad, Caruso uses footage of Bass at a Scientology event and splices in clips that seem to indicate that she supports the controversial church. Bass responded in her own ad, saying she does not support the church and insisted, 'Everybody knows Karen Bass condemns Scientology.' Judge Charlaine Olmedo said she would rule later today on the defense's motion to delay the trial Today at court - where Masterson showed up in a gray suit, white shirt and dark red tie - Cohen contended that his client's trial should be delayed until at least after the November 8 election to prevent a jury from being biased by the candidates' anti-Scientology comments. 'These (TV) ads will continue right up to election day,' he said. 'Even if we get a jury that swears to be unbiased by this ad campaign, it's going to be very difficult to get them not to watch TV.' Cohen called the campaign ads 'inflammatory' and 'horrible timing for the defense.' Adding that 'The word ''Scientology'' never needs to come up' during Masterson trial - that's expected to last a month - Cohen suggested the church could be referred to as a club or simply church.' Prosecutor Reinhold Mueller suggested that in a questionnaire issued to jurors in Masterson's trial 'any issues that the defense has with Scientology could be screened out.' But Cohen countered, telling the court, 'The jurors could make it through the questionnaire but still see the anti-Scientology ads on TV. 'I don't watch a lot of TV so if I am seeing them, a lot of people are seeing them. These ads can play into the thoughts of the jurors.' Judge Olmedo said she would rule later today on the defense's motion to delay the trial. Meanwhile, the legal team of Masterson - who has been free on $3.3 million bail since his arrest in June 2020 - also objected today to a former Scientologist the prosecution plans to introduce at trial as an 'expert witness.' In a written declaration explaining her one-time membership in the Church of Scientology, the witness described how she 'escaped from Scientology Headquarters in 2005.' 'This is clearly not an unbiased person,' blasted another Masterson attorney, Karen Goldstein. 'She has never testified in court as an expert before. In terms of sheer bias, this one is undeniable. She is not qualified. 'What is supposed to be a case about Mr. Masterson is turning into a referendum on Scientology.' The prosecution defended their 'expert witness', saying that her testimony would be 'very limited and confined to the language and organization of the Church of Scientology, not its teachings.' Again, Judge Olmedo will rule later on the expert witness issue. Masterson showed up to court in a gray suit, white shirt and dark red tie. His lawyer contended that the trial should be delayed until at least after the November 8 election to prevent a jury from being biased by the candidates' anti-Scientology comments Masterson's accusers are former Scientologists and are also suing him and the Church of Scientology in civil court Later Monday, attorney Cohen continued his efforts to separate Masterson from the notoriety of Scientology, telling the court that any moves mayoral candidates Rep. Bass and Caruso make 'to distance themselves from Scientology, give them a better chance of being elected mayor of Los Angeles.' 'This is a really big problem for Mr. Masterson. There is a really negative view of Scientology and every time Scientology is mentioned, it becomes harder and harder for Mr. Masterson to have a fair trial.' Telling the court that the general public's view of Scientology is 'more negative than any other religion', Cohen added. 'There is a significant chance of prejudice (in the jury) in bringing Scientology into this case.' Cohen asked the judge to exclude even mentioning the word 'Scientology' during Masterson's trial, arguing that it would be irrelevant, inflammatory, confusing to the jury, and violate his client's First, Fourth, and Fifth Amendment rights. He said a jury could reach an 'emotional verdict based on Mr. Masterson's association with Scientology.' Later Monday, attorney Cohen continued his efforts to separate Masterson from the notoriety of Scientology, telling the court that any moves mayoral candidates Rep. Bass and Caruso make 'to distance themselves from Scientology, give them a better chance of being elected mayor of Los Angeles' 'This is a really big problem for Mr. Masterson. There is a really negative view of Scientology and every time Scientology is mentioned, it becomes harder and harder for Mr. Masterson to have a fair trial,' Cohen noted Prosecutor Mueller hit back, telling the court, 'I could not disagree moreI do not believe the word Scientology is as inflammatory as the defense states. 'There are a lot of topics that come up in a trial that are highly inflammable but that does not mean they are inadmissible. You don't sanitize them completely. 'Scientology is not on trial here. Burt there will be aspects of Scientology that will come in here that will explain what happened. 'There would be so much (during trial) that would be inexplicable to the jury if they didn't know the Scientology context that we're talking about.' One of those 'contexts' he talked about was the reason the three accusers took almost two decades to report that Masterson allegedly raped them. 'Scientology has been part of their lives,' said Mueller who explained that the alleged victims believed the Church did not allow them to report a fellow church member to the police and they feared that if they did, family and friend still in the Church would turn their backs on them.' But Cohen took issue with Mueller's argument, suggesting that the real motive the three women have for supporting the criminal rape case against Masterson is to win money in a civil suit against him. 'Why would these three women want to put themselves through his (criminal trial)?' he asked. 'One explanation is that somebody is looking for monetary gain. 'Three women filed a civil lawsuit against Mr. Masterson with the purpose of winning monetary damages.' Cohen explained that the civil court statute of limitations has actually run out for Masterson to be sued by the women for rape. But if he is convicted in criminal court, they will have one year from the conviction to reinstate a civil case for rape. Masterson's accusers - whom DailyMail.com is identifying only as Jane Does 1 through 3 - are former Scientologists and are also suing him and the Church of Scientology in civil court, claiming they've been harassed and intimidated since reporting the actor to police. In the criminal rape case, at a three-day pre-trial hearing in May last year, all three broke down in tears as they took the witness stand to give harrowing and wrenching accounts of being raped by Masterson. Jane Doe 1 told how he threw her in his jacuzzi, raped her and then pulled a gun on her, telling her, 'Don't say a fking word. You're not going to tell anybody.' Jane Doe 2 described how he 'ravaged her like a rag doll and pounded her from behind like a jackhammer.' Jane Doe 3 recounted how she woke up naked to find Masterson raping her and when she tried to fight him off, he hit her and spit on her, calling her 'white trash'. All three said before each alleged rape, Masterson gave them a drink after which they felt 'blurry' and disoriented. Masterson has failed twice to get the three rape charges he's facing thrown out of court. When Judge Olmedo last year denied his first motion to dismiss, he sent his legal team back to court in February this year to ask a different judge, Ronald Coen, for dismissal, arguing that Judge Olmedo's denial of the motion was 'based on a legal error.' But Judge Coen rejected the second dismissal motion and sent the case back to Judge Olmedo who ordered Masterson to stand trial. His second attempt to get the charges kicked out of court centered around testimony from his three accusers at the pretrial where they contended that they waited a long time to report the alleged rapes because they were afraid of retribution from the Church of Scientology. At that hearing, Judge Olmedo criticized the church for its 'written doctrine that not only discourages but prohibits' a Scientologist from reporting another church member to the police. And she ruled that the church's 'expressly written doctrine sufficiently explains the hesitancy and lateness' in reporting the alleged rapes.' Masterson is married to actress Bijou Phillips. She is standing by his side and proudly drove him to court previously Masterson played wise-cracking Steven Hyde on That '70s Show from 1998 to 2006 Masterson's attorney, Philip Cohen, questioned whether 'the magistrate's (Judge Olmedo) ruling was based on a legal errorbecause that written doctrine does not exist.' And he cast doubt on the credibility of all three alleged victims whose testimony, he said contained 'a myriad of inconsistencies.' Prosecutor Mueller countered, calling Cohen's argument 'a lot of supposition and speculation about what the magistrate was thinking at the time of her ruling.' Judge Coen denied the second motion to dismiss, saying he agreed with Judge Olmedo's finding that the evidence and testimony of the alleged victims' at the pre-trial hearing was 'credible and sufficient to support the charges.' The church sent an attorney to last February's hearing to file an Amicus Brief - a brief filed by a person or organization who is not a party to the case but wishes to contribute information or advice that might be helpful to the court. The church's brief - aimed at Judge Olmedo's criticism of Scientology doctrine that she said prohibited Scientologist from reporting other church members to the police - argued, 'It is incorrect - that is not the doctrine of the Church of Scientology.' But Judge Coen denied the Amicus Brief, telling the court, 'This goes beyond the scope of my authority.' Advertisement Two filmmaker friends of Hollywood stars Margot Robbie and Cara Delevingne were spotted being led out of prison after being arrested for allegedly assaulting a paparazzo over the weekend. Photos showed British film producer Josey McNamara and key grip Jac Hopkins being led out of a Buenos Aires police station by a group of officers after spending the night in detention. The pair had coats thrown over their heads to shield their faces, and were guided by the cops into a waiting car which whisked them away. Hopkins and McNamara were arrested after allegedly assaulting photographer Pedro Alberto Orquera when they spotted him taking snaps of Robbie and Delevingne while eating at a celebrity restaurant in Buenos Aires in the early hours of Sunday morning. The pair reportedly chased Orquera down outside the restaurant. Orquera, who suffered several cuts and a broken arm after a fall, told Argentine outlet TN he was able to protect his equipment and the prized shots he'd taken, but at a considerable cost. Two filmmaker friends of Hollywood stars Margot Robbie and Cara Delevingne were spotted being led out of prison after being arrested for allegedly assaulting a paparazzo over the weekend The pair had coats thrown over their heads to shield their faces, and were guided by the cops into a waiting car which whisked them away Photos showed British film producer Josey McNamara (left) and key grip Jac Hopkins (right) being led out of a Buenos Aires police station by a group of officers after spending the night in detention 'My life was saved by a miracle, I don't know what would have happened if I fell head first to the ground, with the speed that those people chased after me,' Orquera said. 'They never took my material from me... when I fell to the ground [the camera] was smashed but I was able to save the material.' McNamara and Hopkins were arrested by police and taken in for questioning. Orquera meanwhile was placed into a neck brace and stretchered to the nearby Argerich Hospital in the Argentine capital, where he remains following initial treatment and is awaiting surgery for his badly broken arm. He told TN his arm was severely injured and it is unknown whether he will regain full use of the limb. 'I have a cast on my right arm, my arm is very compromised and I don't know if I'm going to lose it,' he claimed. According to TMZ however, a source said Orquera was actually the aggressor, and that he rushed the actresses as they were climbing into an Uber causing the driver to start driving off in fright while Robbie was only halfway into the car. The source said Orquera continued snapping as Robbie lay on the ground after leaping from the moving car, and that he tripped and hurt himself after running off when McNamara and Hopkins moved in to help. Cara Delevingne (left) and Margot Robbie (right) pictured together at the Samsung Experience at San Diego Comic-Con in 2016 Hopkins and McNamara were arrested after allegedly assaulting photographer Pedro Alberto Orquera when they spotted him taking snaps of Robbie and Delevingne while eating at a celebrity restaurant in Buenos Aires in the early hours of Sunday morning The pair reportedly chased Orquera down outside the restaurant The Buenos Aires police station where Josey McNamara Jac Hopkins spent the night after allegedly assaulting a photographer on Sunday morning Josey McNamara and Margot Robbie pictured at the Oscars in Los Angeles in April last year Photographer Pedro Alberto Orquera suffered a broken arm during the incident and is now awaiting surgery Margot Robbie is pictured in Argentina on Friday, September 30 - two days prior to the incident involving Orquera The A-list actresses had been getting into a car outside the Argentine celebrity chef Francis Mallmann's restaurant at around 3am on Sunday morning when the incident involving Orquera took place. According to Orquera, his presence angered McNamara and Hopkins, who chased after him as he fled, ultimately catching up as the photographer crashed to the ground. The impact of the fall shattered his right arm, and he sustained a series of lacerations. Orquera told The Sun: 'While I was running from them they kicked me hard so my camera went up in the air and I fell on the floor and injured my arm.' Witnesses are understood to have called emergency services after it became clear that Orquera had sustained a nasty injury. Police meanwhile took the British filmmakers in for questioning, after which they appeared in court on the order from the Prosecutor's Office for causing 'serious injuries'. A police report seen by The Sun shows that McNamara and Hopkins told officers that Orquera was 'responsible for his own injuries' because the two actresses had not given consent to be pictured. Orquera is planning to file a lawsuit, alleging that the injuries he sustained will prevent him from being able to work. 'The most unfortunate thing [about the attack] is that it leaves me immobile, unable to work or move,' Orquera said. 'I am no longer going to be able to do any work and I don't know if I am going to get my arm back the way it should be.' MailOnline has approached Robbie and Delevingne for comment on the alleged incident. Orquera was attacked after he was seen snapping pictures of Robbie and Delevingne as they exited the Patagonia Sur restaurant (pictured) early on Sunday morning The actresses are understood to have finished a meal at the Patagonia Sur restaurant (pictured) in Buenos Aires before the incident Margot Robbie was spotted on the verge of tears as she left a West Hollywood home in September just hours after meeting with Cara Delevingne in Los Angeles. It comes amid rumors that Delevingne is experiencing health concerns following a series of absences from large events and erratic behavior The starlets reportedly became close in 2016 when they worked on the DC comic-inspired Suicide Squad film, in which Robbie, 32, gained considerable notoriety for her portrayal of the racy Harley Quinn while Delevingne played a character named Enchantress. The pair had travelled to Argentina after attending Paris fashion week events early last week, and Robbie was spotted in Argentina on Friday, stopping to take pictures with some fans. The attack on Orquera during the starlets' stay in Argentina comes less than a month after Robbie was pictured leaving the home of her close friend in West Hollywood, seemingly in tears, amid rumors that British supermodel Delevingne was struggling with health concerns. Delevingne, 30, failed to show up to the launch of her fashion collection honoring late designer Karl Lagerfeld, which was held at chic restaurant Saga in the New York City's Financial District in early September. Nor was Delevingne present at the Emmy Awards on September 13, where her cast mates in the series Only Murders in the Building were nominated for a series of awards. A source close to the Delevingne family told The Sun that the star was struggling and had been 'burning the candle at both ends' as of late. Brazen thieves have been captured on surveillance footage ransacking a luxury home and hauling off a 500lb safe in their car. The masked trio managed to gain access to the $4million property in Rolling Hills Estates, California, last weekend. Surveillance footage showed the criminals using the sliding door to gain entrance while the homeowner was away. Caitlynn Martin, daughter of the homeowner, told KTLA that she thought her mother did all the right things and had high tech locks in place. Footage shows the thieves lugging a heavy safe out of the front door into a car, believed to be a Hyundai Santa Fe SUV, as well as several other items. Caitlynn said: She thought she did all the right things. She had cameras. She had all the doors locked. She had some pretty high-tech locks on all the doors, and you think that you really had done everything right and it wasnt. It makes you feel very unnerved. My understand is this matches other burglaries that have been happening in the area. Two brazen thieves, wearing balaclavas and hats, lugged a 500lb safe full of valuables out the front door of a property after breaking in Caitlynn Martin, daughter of the homeowner, said that she thought her mother did all the right things and had high tech locks in place The group gained access at the back of the property, in an unsecured window or door, before ransacking it Surveillance footage showed the criminals using the sliding door to gain entrance while the homeowner was away A third man is thought to have been involved, understood to be the driver of the vehicle which was loaded up with the stolen items Police have admitted that they are stepping up patrols after a spate of burglaries in the affluent area of Valmonte. The crooks got away with a gold coin collection and jewelry, among other irreplaceable items, with two men ransacking the house and a third appearing to be the driver. Caitlynn added that the home as been in her family for 40 years, and that she couldnt have imagined anything like that happening. Kate Cimmarusti, a neighbor, said: You think your safe and protected and someone comes in and takes your things its the worst thing that could happen. Kate Cimmarusti, a neighbor, said that it is the 'worst thing that could happen' after a spate of burglaries in the affluent area Footage shows the thieves lugging a heavy safe out of the front door into a car, believed to be a Hyundai Santa Fe SUV, as well as several other items The crooks got away with a gold coin collection and jewelry, among other irreplaceable items The property was one of many which have been ransacked in recent weeks in the affluent Velmonte suburb Many of the properties targeted by the thieves do not have an alarm system or it was not working, with the burglaries mostly taking place in the early to late evening. The perpetrators usually entering the homes through the back doors and windows, before making off with valuables. Martin is hoping that someone might recognize the perpetrators, or the car seen in the surveillance video and report it to police. The Palos Verdes Estates Police Department said are urging locals to lock their doors and leave lights on to make sure homes look occupied. In a statement they said: PVEPD detectives are currently investigating these incidents and the department will be providing extra patrol in the area. Please remember to lock your doors, leave lights on to make your home look occupied and if you see something, say something. For non-emergencies, call us 24/7 at 310-378-4211 and for emergencies, call 9-1-1. The audio recording reveals how he gave away his name, full address and even his job description during one popper-fueled performance last year He is suing the website to hand over information about who recorded him Adame goaded bosses into watching him, saying he thought it would be 'hot' He appeared on the explicit website Chaturbate multiple times last year Erick Adame, 39, was fired from his job at Spectrum NY1 last week Erick Adame was fired from his meteorologist job at Spectrum NY1 last week A New York City weatherman who complained when his bosses sacked him over explicit performances on a webcam site told an audience of 700 men his full name, address, and job description, leaked audio of his broadcast reveals. Erick Adame was fired from his meteorologist job at Spectrum NY1 last week after his employers were notified of his performances on Chaturbate, an explicit site where he performed sex acts on himself to an audience. Adame complained online about the posts being sent to his employer and said he never apologize for being 'gay or sex positive'. He is also seeking legal action against the person who sent the photos and videos to his bosses at Spectrum. Newly leaked audio of one performance that was obtained first by The Desk reveals how he goaded bosses into watching him, and gave away his full identity to an audience of 700 men. 'I think it'd be hot if my boss saw me. I'd love if my boss f****ed me on camera,' he said in one performance. Adame was an Emmy-nominated weatherman for Spectrum NY1 until he was fired last wee k He complained on social media about how he'd been exposed, and later filed legal paperwork to compel the website into telling him who filmed him Adame also read out his address in Jersey City, New Jersey, and told the audience that his doors were open. He said he was desperate for sex, and invited men over to his home to sleep with him. Elsewhere in the performance, he asked viewers if they could 'imagine' their 'weatherman' behaving as he was. Adame said he was hopeful he'd still be able to work in the industry At times, he was heard loudly sniffing. It's believed he was ingesting 'poppers' - a drug often used to enhance pleasure during sex. Adame declined to comment when approached by DailyMail.com. In his Instagram post last week, he begged television bosses to put aside his X-rated performances and instead judge him for his work. He conceded that it was 'absurd' for him to have expected privacy, but said: 'I can't take it back and I can't change what I did, but I am getting the professional help I need so I can make appropriate decisions that don't affect those I deeply care about. 'Let me be clear about something: I don't apologize for being openly gay or for being sex positive. Those are gifts and I have no shame about them.' In legal filings, he appealed to a judge to compel Chaturbate to reveal who filmed his performance, in the hopes it would lead him to the person responsible for tattling to his bosses. The petition says in late 2021 Adame used the 'video chat service' on the Unit 4 website and that an anonymous user 'wrongfully copied unclothed images' of him 'by taking screenshots.' The filing says the user then 'wrongfully disseminated the images' to his mother and employer 'with the intent of harassing, annoying, or alarming' and 'tortiously interfering' with his employment. It remains unclear whether his appeal to the judge was successful or not. Emma Thompson has joined local residents and campaigners in condemning plans to build a car park and toilet block on a conservation site that inspired E.M Forster's Howards End. Campaigners, including Extinction Rebellion activists, are battling 'baffling' plans to build on the Forster Country fields in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. The plans, part of the St Nicholas conservation area, being considered by Stevenage Borough Council would also include tarmacking over natural meadows, adding gravel paths and constructing an electrical grounding tower. An application for 800 houses around the area was given the green light by the council in 2020 which was understood locally to have been on the basis that the conservation fields would be protected and restored. The fields inspired the 1910 novel, and subsequent film, Howards End, with EM Forster having grown up in a five-bedroom house on the edge of Stevenage. But locals were stunned to find that plans to build on the fields have now been given further approval by the council. They include Hollywood actress Ms Thompson, who won an Oscar for Best Actress Oscar after starring in the theatrical version of Howards End. She has asked the council to rethink its development plan. Ms Thompson said: 'To destroy beautiful countryside in aid of a car park is bad enough but to destroy countryside with such a heritage and of such value to the economy in terms of tourism is sheer madness. It has to be re-thought.' Campaigners, including Extinction Rebellion activists, are battling 'baffling' plans to build on the Forster Country fields (pictured) Hollywood actress Emma Thompson has joined calls to scrap the plans, having won an Oscar for Best Actress in the theatrical version of E.M . Forster's novel A portrait of famed British author E. M. Forster, who grew up in a five-bedroom house on the edge of Stevenage John Spiers, chairman of local campaigning group Friends of Forster Country, also told HertsLive: 'You wouldnt find a council building a car park on the West Yorkshire moors of Wuthering Heights or the Dorset vales of Tess of the DUrbervilles. We are pained and baffled by Stevenage councils failure to love Forster Country. 'The whole point of restoring the meadow was to restore just that the meadow, as it would have been in Forsters day. 'It turns out that the Council has been negotiating something totally different a municipal amenity that has nothing in common with the natural landscape that inspired Stevenages most famous son and put us on the map around the world. He added: 'Weve been fighting for over 30 years and still we fight on - to stop the car park, preserve the heritage character of the proposed meadow and raise awareness of the houses that are to be built over Forsters fields. Its not too late for Stevenage Council to change its mind.' Campaigners argue that the original proposal relied on the restoration of the meadow and that there had been no mention of a car park or toilet block. A spokesperson for Stevenage Borough Council said: 'Far from there being a "secret plan" for a new, exciting Country Park in the North of Stevenage, there will be open consultation so that all local people can have their say. Chairman of the Friends of Forster Country campaigning group John Spiers is leading calls to scrap the plans 'To share the background, a planning application was received in 2017, for the development in the North of Stevenage. This included proposals for a new Country Park for all residents to access and enjoy. 'This application was approved by the Councils Planning and Development Committee. Some elements, such as layout and landscaping, were required to be considered again in the future by the Committee, through what is known as a Reserved Matters application. 'At the time, the Committee made it very clear that the proposals for the Country Park must be of the highest of ecological and environmental standards, and respect local heritage including that of E.M. Forster. The Council has received the proposed Reserved Matters application, including the proposed layout of the country park, and is carrying out public consultation. All residents are encouraged share their comments. 'We look forward to hearing your views on how, together, we can ensure this country park is an asset to the whole community in Stevenage, before the application is considered by the Planning and Development Committee.' French President Emmanuel Macron's chief of staff has been charged with a conflict of interest, the chief financial crimes prosecutor said Monday. Alexis Kohler, Macron's closest and most influential adviser, was indicted by the national financial crimes prosecutor over a conflict of interest relating to his alleged links with Swiss-Italian shipping company Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the prosecutor's office said. Kohler sits at the top of the Elysee Palace's administrative pyramid, and news of his indictment - a legal step that puts him under formal investigation in France - is a blow. The move also came hours after another Macron ally, Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti, was ordered to stand trial in a separate case, also over a conflict of interest. Alexis Kohler, Macron's closest and most influential adviser, was indicted by the national financial crimes prosecutor over a conflict of interest Kohler is accused over his professional and family links with Italian-Swiss shipping company MSC which is run by his mother's cousins, prosecutor Jean-Francois Bohnert said in a statement. MSC, which runs cruise ships, is one of the biggest clients of French shipyard Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the maker of the Queen Mary 2, which the French government has tried to restructure several times over the past decades. On Monday, Kohler 'categorically denied any wrongdoing', his lawyer said, while an official in Macron's office said Kohler remained in his post. In 2018, Anticor, an anti-corruption NGO, filed a legal complaint against Kohler for illegal influence-peddling concerning contracts awarded to MSC in 2010 and 2011. Kohler allegedly failed to reveal his family connections with MSC to the French agency for public investment where he worked at the time. The case was dismissed the following year, but in 2020, Anticor filed a civil case which usually triggers a probe by an investigating magistrate. Kohler, whose office at the Elysee is located next to that of the president, is often described as Macron's right-hand man. His job involves handling emergencies, major economic and social issues as well as some political decisions. Kohler is accused over his professional and family links with Italian-Swiss shipping company MSC which is run by his mother's cousins, prosecutor Jean-Francois Bohnert said in a statement His lawyer, Eric Dezeuze, said the discovery of evidence linked to the charging would allow Kohler 'to prove his innocence'. But Anticor lawyer Jean-Baptiste Soufron said 'the question of his resignation is now on the table'. The prosecutor's office confirmed 'Alexis Kohler, currently the Secretary-General of the French presidency, has been put under formal investigation for unlawful taking of interest,' it said in a statement. Macron's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Le Figaro newspaper said Macron had decided to keep Kohler in the job despite the investigation. Macron's office has said before that Kohler had at no time hidden his family ties to the Aponte family that founded and still owns MSC. The complaint alleges a conflict of interest based on Kohler's dealings with MSC while he was working for the French state holdings agency between 2012-2014 and later as a senior official in Macron's team at the finance ministry in 2014-2016. Kohler, whose office at the Elysee is located next to that of the president, is often described as Macron's right-hand man Macron's office has said before that Kohler had at no time hidden his family ties to the Aponte family that founded and still owns MSC Kohler left the finance ministry in 2016 when Macron stepped down as economy minister. He then moved to Geneva to take up a position on MSC's board. Nine months later, Kohler quit that post to join the Elysee following Macron's election in 2017. Under French law, a formal investigation means there is evidence implicating a suspect, but does not mean the person being investigated has been charged. The person can be charged at a later date if further evidence emerges against them, or the investigation can be dropped. Adding to pressure on Macron's administration, Justice Minister Dupond-Moretti was ordered Monday to stand trial, charged with misusing his position to settle scores with opponents from his legal career. The former star lawyer is the first sitting French justice minister to be charged in a legal probe. The accusations relate to administrative inquiries ordered into three judges during Dupond-Moretti's time as minister, which were denounced by critics as a witchhunt. The three judges had ordered police in 2014 to pore through the phone records of dozens of lawyers and magistrates, including Dupond-Moretti, as part of an investigation into former president Nicolas Sarkozy. The order to stand trial was issued by the investigation commission of the Law Court of the Republic in Paris, which hears cases of alleged wrongdoing by serving ministers. But his lawyers, Christophe Ingrain and Remi Lorrain, said they had already appealed, sparking a temporary suspension of the move. Lorrain said France's highest appeals court would now pursue the matter. A source close to the case said it was uncertain when the appeals court would rule on the matter. Lorrain said there had been 'many irregularities' in the case, and the chief prosecutor, Francois Molins, had been 'unfair and biased'. The case against Dupond-Moretti goes back to January 2021 when Anticor and a magistrates' union filed a legal complaint, accusing him of using his ministerial powers to take revenge on his enemies in the judiciary. He was charged the following July. Despite opposition calls for him to be sacked, Macron re-appointed him as justice minister in a cabinet reshuffle earlier this year. France's two main magistrates' unions said the accusations put Dupond-Moretti in an 'unprecedented' position. In a statement they said there could be 'another conflict of interest' when Dupond-Moretti, as justice minister, picks a successor to prosecutor Molins who is to retire in June. 'He would get to appoint his own accuser,' the unions said. Anti-corruption NGO Transparency International called for Dupond-Moretti's resignation. Contacted by AFP, Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne's office declined to comment on whether Dupond-Moretti's job was at risk. A spokesperson for the prime minister noted simply that 'the procedure is ongoing' and that it was organised so as not to affect Dupond-Moretti's business as justice minister. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia confronted Vice President Kamala Harris on Twitter Monday about the Democrat's comments about equity in hurricane relief Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia asked Vice President Kamala Harris if her husband's life was 'worth less' because he is white in an astonishingly brazen Twitter post on Monday. The conservative firebrand was reacting to Harris' recent comments suggesting that equity should be prioritized over equality when distributing hurricane relief in Puerto Rico and Florida. She said during an on-stage discussion at the Democratic National Committee's Women's Leadership forum, 'It is our lowest income communities and our communities of color that are most impacted by these extreme conditions and impacted by issues that are not of their own making.' 'And so we have to address this in a way that is about giving resources based on equity, understanding that we fight for equality, but we also need to fight for equity, understanding not everyone starts out at the same place,' the vice president told actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas. 'If we want people to be in an equal place, sometimes we have to take into account those disparities.' Greene likened Harris' remarks to discrimination in her Monday tweet. '@KamalaHarris hurricanes do not target people based on the color of their skin. Hurricanes do not discriminate,' the outspoken congresswoman wrote. 'And neither should the federal government giving aid to people suffering from the devastation of Hurricane Ian.' She added: 'Is your husbands life worth less bc hes white?' 'Is your husbands life worth less bc hes white?' Greene said in the inflammatory post (pictured: Harris alongside her husband, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff) Harris' husband, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, is white and Jewish. Greene was previously accused of making inflammatory comments just days ago at Donald Trump's Michigan rally. 'Im not going to mince words with you all. Democrats want Republicans dead, and they have already started the killings,' Greene said. GOP Senator Rick Scott was asked by CBS News' Face The Nation on Sunday to react to Greene's remarks, but instead pivoted to criticizing Harris' 'equity' comment. 'I didn't see what she said,' Scott said of Greene. It comes after Harris said at the Democratic National Committee's Women's Leadership forum, 'It is our lowest income communities and our communities of color that are most impacted by these extreme conditions and impacted by issues that are not of their own making...so we have to address this in a way that is about giving resources based on equity, understanding that we fight for equality, but we also need to fight for equity, understanding not everyone starts out at the same place.' 'But its also not helpful what the vice president says, when she thinks that FEMA is going to treat people differently based on their skin color.' FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell was forced to assure Americans on Sunday that 'all communities' impacted by Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian would receive the relief aid they need when asked about Harris' remark. 'Our programs support everybody,' Criswell told Face The Nation. 'I would say I believe some of the things the vice president was talking about are the long-term recovery and rebuilding these communities to be able to withstand disasters, so they can have less impact.' She added,'We're going to support all communities. I committed that to the governor, I commit to you right here that all Floridians are going to be able to get the help that is available to them through our programs.' An Arizona Walgreens pharmacy delayed the refill of a teenage girl's life-saving arthritis medication that can induce an abortion following the state's termination ban - despite her not being pregnant. Emma Thompson, 14, was unable to refill rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis medication, known as methotrexate, days after Arizona's abortion law was enacted that will punish parties responsible for assisting in pregnancy termination on September 24. Thompson's doctor was 'livid' and argued the teenager was denied the medication on September 26 that keeps her out of the hospital because she is a female. 'Welcome to AZ,' Dr. Deborah Jane Power wrote on Twitter. 'Today a pharmacist denied the MTX refill for my adolescent patient... MTX denied purely because she's a female, barely a teenager.' 'This child's care has taken a lot to get her to a place that her pain is totally manageable [and] she can attend school in person,' Power later told KOLD News 13. 'My concern was that the pharmacist chose to not refill because methotrexate could be used to cause an abortion and then the pharmacist would be held responsible.' Walgreens later administered the medication and blamed the various abortion 'trigger laws' enacted following the overturning of Roe v. Wade as to why pharmacists must be aware of 'lawful' and 'clinically appropriate prescriptions.' 'Trigger laws in various states require additional steps for dispensing certain prescriptions and apply to all pharmacies, including Walgreens,' a spokesperson told DailyMail.com. Emma Thompson, 14, was unable to refill rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis medication, days after Arizona enacted an abortion law pledging to punish those who assist in abortions Walgreens pharmacy was responsible for filling the prescription and said that it was delayed as pharmacist sought clarification on whether or not they can legally prescribe the medication Dr. Deborah Jane Power feared the pharmacy refused to refill the prescription right away out of fear they would be held responsible if it was used to induce an abortion Dr. Power released her frustration on Twitter and said the girl was 'denied' it because she was female Kaitlin Preble, Thompson's mother, was terrified once she received notice of the delay in her daughter's prescription. 'As a mother who has had to deal with my child being very ill most of her life, I was scared, I was really worried,' Preble told KOLD News 13. 'I was shaking. I was in tears. I didn't know what to do.' Thompson is currently a freshman in high school and has been able to live without medical restriction life thanks to her medicine that keeps her free from the hospital. The slightest thought of Thompson's life being stripped away from her made Preble anxious. 'It feels like a dream,' Preble said. 'She's not in a wheelchair, she has a social life and friends for the first time and a life all young people should have. 'I was scared, I was really scared. I'm like, if they deny this then we'll have to find a different medication and we don't know if it's going to work.' Meanwhile, in July, the American College of Rheumatology released a statement urging medical providers to fill Methotrexate 'without delay and with the assumption that they are not being used to terminate pregnancy.' Kaitlin Preble, Thompson's mother, said her daughter has been able to live a normal life without a wheelchair since being prescribed the medication The American College of Rheumatology released a statement in July urging medical providers to fill Methotrexate 'without delay and with the assumption that they are not being used to terminate pregnancy' Arizona's abortion ban is credited to the overturn of the Supreme Court's vote to overturn Roe v. Wade in June. The ban will be exempt for women whose health would be put at risk if they were to continue with their pregnancy. Arizona's 1864 law was automatically triggered after Roe v Wade was axed by the Supreme Court, but an injunction was successfully sought by pro-abortion campaigners. The decision from Pima County Superior Court Judge Kellie Johnson came more than a month after she heard arguments on Republican Attorney General Mark Brnovichs request to lift the injunction. Johnson said in the ruling: 'The court finds that because the legal basis for the judgment entered in 1973 has now been overruled, it must vacate the judgment in its entirety,' according to KGUN. The law was originally passed in 1864. In 1901, the language of the law was changed, according to AZ Central. Arizona Superior Court Judge Kellie Johnson began hearing arguments on triggering the 1864 law in August D'Asia Johnson, 22, was found dead on September 21. She was found chopped up in two suitcases in her Brooklyn apartment The new girlfriend of a suspected killer who was accused of hacking his former lover to death and storing her dismembered limbs in suitcases used her benefits card, it has been claimed. D'Asia Johnson, 22, was found dead on September 21 at her Brooklyn apartment - but now it's been alleged her Electronic Benefits Transfer card was being used by her estranged boyfriend's new partner. Her dismembered body was found inside blood-stained Apartment 6F at Linwood Park Apartments, an affordable housing building in East New York, Brooklyn. A meat cleaver was also found near her body. The victim's ex, Justin Williams, 23, today appeared in front of Nassau County Criminal Court charged with a slew of misdemeanors unrelated to Johnson's death. Williams, who lives in Harlem, was announced by Nassau County Assistant District Attorney Brittany Gurrieri as a person of interest in the gruesome crime. His other unnamed girlfriend - who is also the mother of his children - had been using Johnson's benefits card since she had died, according to the NY Daily News. It's not clear what the woman purchased while using the card. D'Asia's Electronic Benefits Transfer card was used by Williams' other girlfriend after her death, it's been claimed The building superintendent made the gruesome discovery at 315 Linwood Street in East New York around 1:30pm The body was found inside Apartment 6F at Linwood Park Apartments, an affordable housing building in East New York, Brooklyn The building has 100 apartments, most of which are affordable units. Others are for recently incarcerated Rikers inmates Police remove the belongings of a 22-year-old woman whose remains were found inside the apartment On Sunday, NYPD also released the images of five men and one woman who they were looking to question in relation to Johnson's death. The 22-year-old had not been seen for several weeks before neighbors noticed a foul smell coming from inside the home last month. One called the building's super to request a welfare check which prompted the grim discovery. According to sources, the super arrived at the apartment and was met by the victim's boyfriend, who refused to let him in. He then called the police - at which point the boyfriend and another man were seen fleeing the building carrying a duffle bag, NY Daily News reported. The super then returned to the empty apartment to find the suitcases stuffed with the victim's body parts, as well as the meat cleaver in the bathroom. Johnson allegedly had an order of protection filed against her estranged boyfriend before she was found dead. Part of the order meant he was barred from being at her apartment. The apartment building contains 100 units of affordable housing but it also houses recently released Rikers inmates. Of the charges Williams was in court for today, he pleaded not guilty and bail was set at $125,000 for the assault at the laundromat, as well as $25,000 for the Walgreens grand larceny. Police carry evidence bags at the apartment complex in East New York A bouquet of flowers lies on the logo of Google, outside the U.S. tech giant's former headquarters in Beijing, in this picture taken on January 14, 2010, days after the company exited the mainland. AFP-SCMP Google Translate, one of the few remaining consumer services that the U.S. tech giant made available in mainland China, is no longer accessible in the country, marking the company's latest retreat from the world's largest internet market. The app has been inaccessible to mainland Chinese users since Saturday. They have been redirected to a generic search bar, with a notice asking users to bookmark the service's Hong Kong webpage, which is also inaccessible on the mainland. The built-in translation function on Google's Chrome browser has also become unavailable in the country, according to various user posts on Chinese social media. The move to discontinue Google Translate's service in China was first reported by TechCrunch. Google told the American online news site that the app's pullback was "due to low usage" on the mainland. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday. While a number of Chinese technology companies provide a range of translation services, the Google Translate app has a large user base in the country. In August, the Chinese Google Translate website recorded 53.5 million visits from desktop and mobile users combined, according to data on web analytics platform Similarweb. The move to discontinue Google Translate on the mainland reflects the U.S. tech giant's complex history with the Chinese government. Google announced its exit from the Chinese mainland in January 2010, citing targeted cyberattacks originating from the country and a clash with Beijing over the tightened control of online speech. The Chinese government subsequently blocked Google's services on the mainland. But in March 2017, Google Translate was reintroduced on the mainland without much fanfare after a seven-year absence. Google's comeback in China had been widely speculated the previous year. The Google Translate app's Chinese website recorded 53.5 million visits from desktop and mobile users combined in August, according to data from Similarweb. SCMP He sensationally claimed that Crimea should be officially ruled a 'part of Russia' Musk posted his thoughts on how Russia and Ukraine could reach a peace deal Elon Musk has become embroiled in a Twitter spat with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after claiming the country should remain 'neutral' in the war against Russia prompting one diplomat to tell him to 'f*** off'. The Tesla CEO made a series of remarks, claiming he only wanted 'peace' between the countries after Russian invaded Ukraine unprovoked eight months ago. He claims the peace deal should include a recognition that Crimea, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, is 'formally a part of Russia.' Crimea has been recognized as a part of Ukraine by the US and other allies since Russian invaded and conducted a referendum. The world's richest man acknowledged that the referendum was 'questionable', quickly hitting back to say it should be done under the supervision of the UN or another 'trusted entity'. Billionaire Musk has been hit with a huge backlash online, claiming his 'peace' deal is 'highly likely to be the outcome', adding 'just a question of how many die before then.' Billionaire Elon Musk has faced a vicious backlash after posting his opinions on how Russia's invasion of Ukraine can come to a peaceful conclusion The Tesla CEO's posts struck a nerve, with diplomats and even Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky becoming involved in the online row Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany Andrij Melnyk, pictured, told Musk to 'f*** off' in response to his series of Tweets Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany Andrij Melnyk slammed Musk, replying to his suggestions online saying 'F*** off is my very diplomatic reply to you. 'The only outcome is that now no Ukrainian will every buy your f***ing Tesla crap. So good luck to you.' Musk posted a poll asking other Twitter users to weigh in on his suggestions, in which he also said elections of annexed regions should be redone under UN supervision. More than a million people voted in just four hours, with the result being closer than his peace deal poll - which saw nearly two million vote in the same time period. His other ideas were that water supply to Crimea is assured, but after thousands voted against them he blamed a 'bot attack' for skewing the results. President Volodymyr Zelensky hit back at the series of posts, creating his own poll asking 'Which Elon Musk do you like more? One who support Ukraine or one who supports Russia.' Almost a million people responded, with the overwhelming majority voting for one who supports Ukraine. Musk told his followers he believed that nuclear war is an 'unlikely' but 'possible' outcome. He added: 'Russia is doing partial mobilization. They go to full war mobilization if Crimea is at risk. Death on both sides will be devastating. 'Russia has >3 times population of Ukraine, so victory for Ukraine is unlikely in total war. If you care about the people of Ukraine, seek peace.' President Volodymyr Zelensky hit back at the series of posts, asking people if they preferred a Musk who supported Ukraine or Russia Musk posted two polls on his Twitter account asking opinions on how the war could be ended 'peacefully' Ukrainian and Russian officials held peace talks at the start of the war, with Russians demanding that Ukraine remained 'neutral and recognize Crimea as Russian. Both of those suggestions were identical to Musk, with their proposals also including commanding Ukraine to demilitarize. However Ukrainian forces defended against the invasion, meaning that the talks fell apart after they beat back Russian troops. President Biden's administration has also pointed out that the war could end if Russia stopped the invasion and retreated. But if Ukraine backed off then it would lead to Russia killing more Ukrainian's and continuing their goal to take over the country. Russia has held sham referenda in four regions of Ukraine in the past week, trying to illegally annex them. Speaking last week, President Zelensky said there is no way to try to have productive talks with Vladimir Putin. He said: 'Russia's implementation of the so-called Crimean scenario and another attempt to annex Ukrainian territory will mean that there is nothing to talk about with this President of Russia.' A New York University professor has been fired after a group of students signed a petition against him suggesting his course was too difficult. Maitland Jones Jr., 84, had 82 of his 350 organic chemistry students sign the petition citing Jones' teaching methods and course outline as reasons for their poor grades. 'We are very concerned about our scores, and find that they are not an accurate reflection of the time and effort put into this class,' the petition said, according to a New York Times report. 'We urge you to realize that a class with such a high percentage of withdrawals and low grades has failed to make students' learning and well-being a priority and reflects poorly on the chemistry department as well as the institution as a whole.' Accusations made against Jones include: reducing the number of midterm exams from three to two; no offering of extra credit; no Zoom access to lectures for those with COVID-19; and, Jones taught with a 'condescending and demanding' tone. Jones defended accusations made via the petition, adding that he reduced the number of exams because NYU scheduled his first test after six classes. Maitland Jones Jr., 84, was fired from his position as an organic chemistry professor at NYU after many students signed a petition against him Jones' students said the organic chemistry course was too difficult and that Jones was not helpful in supporting them Technology in the lecture hall in which Jones taught prohibited him from recording his writing on the white board. He said the problem with students emerged a decade ago, just a couple years after he moved from Princeton to NYU in 2007, as he noticed a loss of focus in his students. As students returned from virtual learning as a result of the pandemic, that problem only got worse. Students were not studying and, Jones said, students seemingly did not know how to. 'We now see single digit scores and even zeros,' he said. In an effort to help students, Jones and two other professors taped 52 lectures, which Jones says he paid $5,000 of his own money to publish. They are still used. In 2020, an estimated 30 students out of 475 signed a petition saying they need more help. 'They were really struggling,' Jones said. 'They didn't have good internet coverage at home. All sorts of things.' Pictured: The 1,300-page textbook on organic chemistry written by Maitland Jones Jr., who taught the subject at Princeton before moving to NYU in 2007 Jones was not alone in the pushback from students in the return from pandemic learning. Kent Kirshenbaum, another organic chemistry professor, discovered students cheating during online tests. Citing poor conduct in his decision to reduce grades, students protested by saying 'they were not given grades that would allow them to get into medical school.' Entering 2022, Jones said students were increasingly disengaged. 'They weren't coming to class, that's for sure, because I can count the house,' Jones said. 'They weren't watching the videos, and they weren't able to answer the questions.' Following the course's second midterm - a test which resulted in an average score of 30 - several students began to panic about the course as it was a prerequisite for applying to medical schools. Former student Ryan Xue, who transferred to Brown after completing the class, said he liked both Jones as a professor and the course. 'This is a big lecture course, and it also has the reputation of being a weed-out class,' Xue said. 'So there are people who will not get the best grades. Some of the comments might have been very heavily influenced by what grade students have gotten.' Former students and faculty members defended Jones, who said students had progressively lost focus in his class over the last decade Other students who most recently took the course told The New York Times that Jones was helpful when they asked for help, but he could be sarcastic. Zacharia Benslimane, a Ph.D student at Harvard and former teaching assistant for Jones, emailed NYU in his defense. 'I think this petition was written more out of unhappiness with exam scores than an actual feeling of being treated unfairly,' he wrote. 'I have noticed that many of the students who consistently complained about the class did not use the resources we afforded to them.' Jones said he fears for other professors at the university who may face the same response from faculty. 'I don't want my job back,' he said. 'I just want to make sure this doesn't happen to anyone else.' Advertisement President Joe Biden assured the people of Puerto Rico on Monday that 'all of America is with you' as the island struggles to cope with the damage from Hurricane Fiona. 'We came here in person to show that we're with you. All of America is with you as you receive and recover and rebuild,' he said during a visit to Ponce, Puerto Rico, with first lady Jill Biden and FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell. Biden vowed to deliver quick assistance to the island, where tens of thousands of people still don't have power after Fiona struck the island on Sept. 18. 'We work together to help rebuild Puerto Rico and I mean, rebuild it all. And rebuild it in a resilient way so you know when the storms come again, which they will, they're not having the damage they caused before,' he said. He noted he was 'confident' that he can meet Governor Pedro Pierluisi's request to extend major disaster declaration for 180 days. Power has been restored to about 90% of the U.S. territory of 3.2 million people, 44% of whom live below the poverty line. But that leaves about 137,000 without power. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Bide receive a briefing from Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi on Hurricane Fiona during their visit to Ponce President Biden, during his visit with first lady Jill Biden, pledged $60 million in funding to help the island territory 'We came here in person to show that we're with you. All of America is with you,' President Biden said in his remarks - first lady Jill Biden and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell listen Jill Biden helped volunteers bag up supplies for those in need after Hurricane Fiona struck the island on September 18 Jill Biden helps bag groceries during a stop at a volunteer center Meanwhile, Jill Biden joined volunteers in packing up bags of supplies when the Bidens visited a volunteer center at a local school. At the center, groceries and household goods 10 pound sacks of yellow onions, cuties, garlic, boxed juice, rice, nuts, ground corn, chickpeas, and cases of bottled water were gathered in white plastic shopping bags and arrayed atop long tables covered in red and blue tablecloths. In route to that stop, the Bidens' motorcade saw some protesters as it made its way through Ponce. 'Biden Go Home,' one sign read. But the president, in his remarks, told the crowd he felt an infinity with the territory, noting his home state of Delaware had a large population of minorities, including Puerto Ricans. Wilmington, Del., has a large Puerto Rican population as does the nearby city of Philadelphia. 'I come from a little state - a little state of Delaware,' Biden said. 'But we have - in very relative terms - large Puerto Rican population in Delaware - relative to our population.' 'I was sort of raised in the Puerto Rican community at home politically. And so we came here for a long time, both for business and pleasure,' he said of his family. Jill Biden helps fill and stack sacks of supplies Groceries and household goods 10 pound sacks of yellow onions, cuties, garlic, boxed juice, rice, nuts, ground corn, chickpeas, and cases of bottled water were gathered for Jill Biden and other volunteers to pack up Jill Biden helps pack groceries during the Bidens' visit to Puerto Rico President Joe Biden wipes his face ahead of his remarks; it was 85 degrees on the island with dark clouds overhead as another storm threatened to roll in And more bad weather may be on the way, a fact Biden was aware of as he spoke. 'I don't want the headline to read, `Biden brings storm to Puerto Rico,' he joked. 'So I'm gonna maybe have to cut this a little short.' Dark clouds moved in over head during his remarks. Thunder was heard in the distance and lightening flashed in the sky. During his visit, Biden announced $60 million in funding to help the island territory. The money, allocated through through last year's bipartisan infrastructure law, w ill help Puerto Rico shore up levees, strengthen flood walls and create a new flood warning system so the island will be better prepared for future storms. 'We have to ensure that when the next hurricane strikes, Puerto Rico is ready,' he said. Fiona caused catastrophic flooding, tore apart roads and bridges, and unleashed more than 100 landslides when it hit Puerto Rico on Sept. 18. At least two people died after being swept away by floods, and several others were killed in accidents related to the use of candles or generator during the island-wide power outage. Government officials have estimated some $3 billion in damages, but warn that costs could rise significantly as evaluations continue. Biden blamed the storm's strength on climate change while warning more extreme weather may be on the way. 'We know that the climate crisis and more extreme weather are going to continue to hit this island and hit the United States overall. And as we rebuild we have to ensure that we build it to last,' he said. Scientists at Stony University in New York found that climate change was adding up to 10% more rain to today's hurricanes. Biden praised the population for its strength and fortitude. 'Somehow, the people of Puerto Rico keep getting back up with resilience and determination,' he said. He had pledged the U.S. government would not abandon Puerto Rico again as it starts to rebuild, five years after the more powerful Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017. President Joe Biden praised the strenght and fortitude of Puerto Rico in his remarks President Joe Biden said he felt an infinity with the territory, noting his home state of Delaware had a large population of minorities, including Puerto Ricans President Biden gets briefed on the damage from Hurricane Fiona - more than 100,000 people remain without power A house lies in the mud after it was washed away by Hurricane Fiona at Villa Esperanza in Salinas, Puerto Rico Playa Salinas was flooded after the passing of Hurricane Fiona last month Former President Donald Trump famously tossed rolls of paper towel into a San Juan crowd during his 2017 visit after Hurricane Maria devastated the island's infrastructure Former President Donald Trump had a long running feud with the island over its funding requests and financial management. Trump, in 2018, suggested the death toll from Hurricanes Irma and Maria had been inflated 'to make me look as bad as possible.' Trump visited San Juan in 2017 after Hurricane Maria struck the island. During his visit he famously threw rolls of paper towels out into the crowd. The Bidens visit was much more low-key. The first couple received a briefing on storm damage and met with families affected by the hurricane. President Biden, leaving the White House on Monday morning, said he was visiting in part because Puerto Rico hasn't 'been taken very good care of' and the people there were 'trying like hell to catch up from the last hurricane.' 'Puerto Ricans are strong people but even so, you have had to bear so much and more than need be and you haven't gotten the help in a timely way,' he said during his remarks in Puerto Rico. On Wednesday the president and first lady head to Florida where officials are still taking measure of the massive impacts of Hurricane Ian, with the death toll already climbing to 87. A Texas woman was arrested for allegedly kidnapping the 18-month son of a Honduran migrant mother, and then attempting to ransom the boy back to her. Jenna Leigh Roark, 45, faces charges for taking the boy hostage last May, for holding him captive for five months, and for aiding and abetting in the scheme. According to a criminal complaint, Roark had offered the woman a ride to an El Paso bus station, only to take the child hostage and then demand $8,000 for his return. If convicted on the charges, Roark could face life in prison. But Roark tells a completely different story, insisting that her husband had gotten into trouble with a Mexican gang and that she was then forced to take care of the child until the Honduran mother paid the gang a sum of money. Jenna Leigh Roark, 45, faces charges for taking the boy hostage last May, for holding him captive for five months, and for aiding and abetting in the scheme Roak was arrested in El Paso, Texas. If convicted on the charges, Roark could face life in prison Roark was first apprehended with the child on September 16 when she was pulled over by the Texas highway patrol with three illegal immigrants in the backseat of her car. Her 15-year-old daughter was sitting in the front seat with the boy in her lap, and when officers asked who he was she told them it was her other daughter's son, that his name was Aiden Smith, and that he was born on May 19, 2021. Officers called Roark's other daughter to the scene, and when she arrived she said the boy was named Aiden Javier Smith, but told them his birthday was May 19, 2020. She also said the boy was not actually hers, but that his biological mother was her fiancee. A report from the Texas Department of Public safety said the boy was in 'poor health' and brought to the hospital, then released to protective services until his real family could be located. Ten days later, officials in St. Petersburg Florida contacted the FBI to report they had a Honduran woman living nearby who had been 'separated from her infant son and was being extorted for money in exchange for [his] safe return,' the complaint read. The woman told officers that in May she had crossed into the US from Mexico with her son and asked a two strangers for directions to a Greyhound station at an apartment complex in El Paso. The strangers - a man, and a woman going by Jane - offered her a ride, but then on the way to the station told her they were keeping the boy. 'Jane would periodically send [the Honduran mother] pictures and videos of [her] Son, and [the mother] and [her] Son would speak on the phone two to three times a week,' the complaint said. Jane first asked for $8,000 in ransom, according to the complaint, but then cut the number to $5,800. The FBI traced the device Jane used to contact the mother, and identified it as belonging to Roark. When the FBI showed the Honduran mother photo of the child taken from Roark, she confirmed that he was her son. Once questioned about the allegations, Roark insisted that she was in fact the victim, and 'that her husband was in trouble with the mafia in Juarez known as La Empresa.' She said the boy 'was sent to her by a man in Mexico only known [to her] as Richard.' Roark said Richard had kept the boy while sending the Honduran woman across the border with two of her other kids, and that he then sent the child to stay with her in El Paso until the Honduran woman paid him a sum of money. Roark told authorities that sum was actually $10,000, despite sending messages to the Honduran woman demanding just over half that. Roark also said she had once been detained by immigration authorities for transporting people who had been sent to the US illegally. Police are searching for a gunman that shot another man dead in the front yard of a city home. Queensland Police said officers established a crime scene at a house on Cliveden Avenue in Oxley, southwest Brisbane, at 3.25am on Tuesday. They are currently treating the shooting as a murder. The investigation means nearby Corinda State School's drop-off area will be closed until after 9am, delaying students' start on the first day of Term Four. Queensland police have established a crime scene after a man was fatally shot in Brisbane early in the morning (pictured, police investigating the scene) Police were called to the scene of the Oxely shooting at about 3.25am on Tuesday (pictured, police at the scene) Officers were seen investigating and photographing the scene (above) late Tuesday morning 'Due to an emerging situation on Cliveden Ave parents are asked to allow additional time for school drop off this morning as Cliveden Ave is closed,' the school wrote on its Facebook page. 'Surrounding streets and Corinda State High School are open.' The crime scene also affects the nearby Eden Academy childcare facility, which remains open. A large police presence will remain in the area but it is believed the shooter has fled. Forensic officers were spotted at the scene late Tuesday morning taking photographs of evidence. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. Police are treating the shooting as a murder as they continue an investigation and search for the gunman (pictured, police at the scene early Tuesday morning) Police established a crime scene at 3.25am and are expected to remain at the scene until after 9am (pictured, officers talking to an unidentified person at the scene) Nearby resident Carol Armstrong said she heard gunshots early this morning. 'I was woken up by a loud bang, which I thought was somebody over at the school, people going through there,' she told ABC. 'A doorbell rang this morning a police officer telling me that somebody had been shot.' Another neighbour said she was woken by the gunshots and ran to her window to see a man in a mask and hoodie. President Volodomyr Zelensky has renewed his call to be let into the alliance as Russia announced a bid to annex four regions in Ukraine China warned the U.S. could face 'grave consequences,' including nuclear war, if Ukraine were allowed to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). 'All European countries will tremble under the shadow of a possible nuclear war,' Beijing warned in a Sunday editorial in the state-owned Global Times. 'In that case, there will be no security for anyone, not for Ukraine, and not for the world,' the newspaper wrote. 'Instead of pursuing resolutions to end the conflict, Washington has, over and over again, displayed that the US is charging toward the other directionfanning the flames of war.' President Volodomyr Zelensky has renewed his call to be let into the alliance as Russia announced a bid to annex four regions in Ukraine. Asked about Zelensky's request to fast track Ukraine's NATO membership, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said last week now is 'not the right time' and the application 'should be taken up at a different time.' China called for the Western alliance to withdraw from Eastern Europe entirely. The recent threat comes in a string of fiery warnings from China, with others aimed at the U.S.'s support of Taiwan amid Beijing's encroachment on the territory. China warned the U.S. could face 'grave consequences,' including nuclear war, if Ukraine were allowed to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) President Volodomyr Zelensky has renewed his call to be let into the alliance as Russia announced a bid to annex four regions in Ukraine China and Russia have sought to ally themselves as a bulwark against the West. Last week Congress passed a temporary funding measure that included another $12 billion for Ukraine, bringing the total to $66 billion. Biden previously supported Ukraine's NATO bids, but has backed down since the invasion. He did issue a warning to Russian forces if they were to try to mess with any bordering NATO-aligned countries. 'America's fully prepared with our NATO allies to defend every single inch of NATO territory. Every single inch,' Biden said. Vladimir Putin ignited new fears of nuclear war when he said he was 'not bluffing' when he said Russia was prepared to use nuclear weapons to defend its territory. He also said any country who wants to 'live by the rules of the United States' are 'political masochists.' Announcing that he was annexing four Ukrainian regions, Putin said Russia would use 'all the power and all the means' at its disposal to defend its new lands from attacks by the West or Ukraine and to help liberate the world. The Russian despot, speaking in front of his cronies in Moscow, declared that 'millions of people' had 'opted' to become vassals of Russia after staging sham referendums in which gun-toting troops went door-to-door with clear glass ballot boxes in order to force people to vote. Putin ignited new fears of nuclear war when he said he was 'not bluffing' when he said Russia was prepared to use nuclear weapons to defend its territory 'They are our people, forever,' he said to a standing ovation inside the Kremlin's grand Georgian Hall before calling on Ukraine and its Western allies to abandon hopes of re-taking them, repeating a threat to use 'all forces' to defend the 'new territories'. He said: 'The West wants to see Russia as a colony, an unfree society.' The Russian president said westerners have made the leap from issuing sanctions to conducting 'terror attacks' in a hostile speech delivered from the Kremlin. The West sabotaging Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines was an attempt to 'destroy the European energy infrastructure,' he claimed and added that 'those who profit from it have done it,' without naming a specific country. Karl Stefanovic has clashed with Bill Shorten after declaring Islamic State brides and their children stranded in Syria should not be brought back to Australia. Cabinet's national security committee will meet on Tuesday to formally approve a rescue plan to repatriate more than a dozen families who recently underwent 'risk assessments' following a secret ASIO mission to the war-torn nation. Sixteen Australian women and 42 children have been held in al-Roj refugee camp in northeast Syria near the Iraqi border for three-and-a-half years following the fall of Islamic State in March 2019. The Today Show host on Tuesday morning said there was 'no way in the world' those families should be allowed to return to Australia after leaving to join their husbands fighting for the terror group. Karl Stefanovic has clashed with Bill Shorten after declaring Islamic State brides and their children stranded in Syria should not be brought back to Australia The former Labor leader was tight-lipped about his feelings on the matter, and said Australians would want to know that 'natural security is intact'. 'I mean a lot of these kids are under six of course and they didn't have any say in what happened to them, but it is a national security matter and there is probably not much more I can add,' Mr Shorten said on the breakfast show. Stefanovic then said Mr Shorten's comments made it sound like he wasn't in support of the move. 'No not at all,' Mr Shorten argued. 'I don't have sympathy for some of those blokes who went over there, no sympathy at all, but if you're a kid under six lets not pretend anyone really asked their permission. 'I can see both points of view.' Mr Shorten said it was a matter of national security, and noted there were children under six that should be allowed to return to Australia But his comments weren't enough to convince Stefanovic who said he didn't believe Mr Shorten would be supporting the move if he 'had a choice'. 'Oh no, if I've conveyed that, that's not right at all,' the Government Services Minister responded. 'I just want to reassure people it's about national security first, they'll be the considerations, a lot of these are kids are under six so I'm not going to pretend you just give up on Australian citizens under six.' The women and children will be taken to a third country in the Middle East before coming back to Australia. 'I think if you make a decision to go overseas with someone and fight for Islamic State, you're making the decision as a family, there's no way in the world you should be allowed to come back here,' Stefanovic said. The federal government's controversial move to reverse the policy banning foreign fighters and those who fled to Syria and Iraq to assist them has divided opinion in Australia. Former ADF intelligence analyst Shane Healey earlier told The Project Australia was '100 per cent' obliged to bring the families home. The federal government's controversial move to reverse the policy banning foreign fighters and those who fled to Syria and Iraq to assist them was met with division in Australia. (pictured is Australian woman Zehra Duman (centre), seen with aid workers from the Free Burma Rangers in Syria) 'I don't see how we can bring refugees out of Sudan, out of Afghanistan and out of other countries that are war-torn and leave Australian citizens sitting in such a terrible state.' He stressed women and children rescued from the detention camp won't be whisked to Australia straight away and will need further assessment before they can return home, a process that could take months. 'They're going to take them to a host nation somewhere in the Middle East and give them a holistic assessment- psychological, education, medical and that takes weeks and then slowly unpack whether it is trauma or any medical issues and then start building them up to integrate back in Australia,' Mr Healey explained. 'Most of the young kids probably don't even speak English or have had formal education so that would be one of the processes.' The Project's Waleed Aly said what he was describing sounded similar to other deradicalisation programs, which have a 'sketchy' track record overseas. But Mr Healey was extremely confident families would be successfully reintegrated back into Australia without issues - despite some public outcry. The Supreme Court on Monday allowed a vaccine mandate to stand for healthcare workers when it declined to take up a case brought by Missouri and mostly Republican-led states. The decision not to take up an appeal was a win for the Biden administration, which in January watched the conservative court strike down its vaccine people working at large corporations to either get vaccinated or test for the coronavirus. The efforts were both key prongs of the administration's effort to push vaccination in an effort to gain control of the coronavirus outbreak. It came on the first day at the Supreme Court was back in session, with Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson joining the outvoted liberal minority on the 6-3 conservative court. The Biden Administration's vaccine mandate for health workers will stand after the Supreme Court (pictured in January) declined to take up an appeal The justices turned away an appeal by Missouri and nine other states after a lower court declined to immediately consider their claims that the vaccine rule violates federal administrative law and tramples over powers reserved for the states under the U.S. Constitution. The administration imposed the rule in November 2021 as COVID-19 was raging, but it drew immediate pushback from people who said the president overstepped his authority. The Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision in January to let Biden enforce the healthcare worker mandate while litigation on its legal merits continued in lower courts. The justices at the same time decided 6-3 to halt his administration's rule requiring vaccines or weekly COVID-19 tests for employees at businesses with at least 100 employees. Citing the purpose of Medicare and Medicaid, the majority wrote in January: 'One such functionperhaps the most basic, given the Departments core missionis to ensure that the healthcare providers who care for Medicare and Medicaid patients protect their patients health and safety.' The decision came on the court's first day back in session, with new Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson The Biden Administration imposed a health mandate on hospital and nursing home workers whose institutions accept Medicare and Medicaid funding The mandate drew political pushback, and 10 Republican-led states sued This artist sketch depicts lawyer Scott Keller standing to argue on behalf of more than two dozen business groups seeking an immediate order from the Supreme Court to halt a Biden administration order to impose a vaccine-or-testing requirement on the nation's large employers during the COVID-19 pandemic, at the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 7, 2022. The court struck down the mandate on large companies, but allowed one on health workers to stand The Health and Human Services Secretary 'routinely imposes conditions of participation that relate to the qualifications and duties of healthcare workers themselves,' the majority wrote. It also noted that 'vaccination requirements are a common feature of the provision of healthcare in America.' The Biden administration had argued that the two mandates would save lives and strengthen the U.S. economy by increasing the number of vaccinated Americans. The United States leads the world in COVID-19 deaths, reporting more than a million since the pandemic took hold in the early months of 2020. The federal healthcare worker rule requires vaccination for about 10.3 million workers at 76,000 healthcare facilities including hospitals and nursing homes that accept money from the Medicare and Medicaid government health insurance programs for elderly, disabled and low-income Americans. The Supreme Court in January concluded that Biden's regulation fit within the power Congress conferred on the federal government to impose conditions on Medicaid and Medicare funds. It decided that ensuring that medical providers take steps to avoid transmitting a dangerous virus to their patients is consistent with the 'fundamental principle of the medical profession: first, do no harm.' Missouri sued alongside Nebraska, Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming - winning an injunction against the requirement in those states. The mandate had also been blocked in 15 other states, including Arizona and Texas, following litigation there. After the justices in January stayed preliminary injunctions issued by lower courts against the rule, including in Missouri's lawsuit, the state asked the St. Louis-based 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to expedite hearing the merits of the case. In April, the 8th Circuit instead sent the case back to a federal judge to proceed to a trial. Missouri then appealed to the Supreme Court, contending that the mandate violates federal administrative law and tramples over powers reserved to the states under the Constitution. THe conservative states had argued the mandate was 'devastating small, rural, and community-based healthcare facilities and systems throughout the states.' Former President Donald Trump on Monday accused CNN in federal court of defamation, launching legal proceedings seeking $475 million in punitive damages. His complaint says the national news organization used its power and reach to defeat him politically. And the court document claims that CNN has stepped up its attacks as Trump mulls whether to run for the presidency again in 2024. Trump said he was proud to file a lawsuit standing up to the mainstream media. 'In the coming weeks and months we will also be filing lawsuits against a large number of other fake news media companies for their lies, defamation, and wrongdoing, including as it pertains to "The Big Lie," that they used so often in reference to their disinformation attack on presidential election of 2020,' he said in an emailed statement. It came after his lawyers filed a suit in Florida federal court. 'Beyond simply highlighting any negative information about the plaintiff and ignoring all positive information about him, CNN has sought to use its massive influence purportedly as a "trusted" news sourceto defame the plaintiff in the minds of its viewers and readers for the purpose of defeating him politically, culminating in CNN claiming credit for "[getting] Trump out" in the 2020 presidential election,' said the complaint written by Trump's lawyers, and filed in federal court in Florida. It accused the news channel of repeatedly defaming him, including comparisons with Hitler and calling him a 'racist,' 'Russian lackey,' and 'insurrectionist.' It highlights on-air segments and written pieces published on CNN.com discussing Trump's rejection of the 2020 election result as 'the big lie' - a term coined in German by Hitler in his writings incited hatred against Jews. Former President Donald Trump filed a lawsuit on Monday accusing CNN of defamation, and seeking $475 million in punitive damages for comparing him with Hitler The suit claims CNN has repeatedly referred to Trump's rejection of the 2020 election results as 'the big lie' - a phrase coined in German by Hitler as he whipped up hatred against Jews The 29-page complaint claims CNN has stepped up its attacks in recent months amid speculation that Trump is preparing to announce a 2024 run for president 'CNNs highly defamatory and persistent association of the plaintiff to Hitler and Hitlers "Big Lie" is no mistaken misappropriation,' reads the complaint. 'It is wanton and malicious "reporting" intended to feed a narrative and to achieve a desired end: to cause readers and viewers to associate the plaintiff with the lowest of low, to fear him, to not vote for him, and to support campaigns against him.' It marks the latest salvo in Trump's long-running feud with CNN. He regularly encourages rally crowds to chant: 'CNN sucks.' Although Trump has branded multiple outlets as 'fake news,' he has reserved particular fury for CNN since before even becoming president. 'Your organization is terrible,' he told Jim Acosta, CNN's senior White House correspondent in January 2017, just before taking office. 'You are fake news!' Trump claims in the 29-page lawsuit that CNN has stepped up its attacks in recent months. 'CNN's campaign of dissuasion in the form of libel and slander against the plaintiff has only escalated in recent months as CNN fears the plaintiff will run for president in 2024,' reads the complaint. 'As a part of its concerted effort to tilt the political balance to the Left, CNN has tried to taint the Plaintiff with a series of ever-more scandalous, false, and defamatory labels of "racist," "Russian lackey," "insurrectionist," and ultimately "Hitler."' Trump has not yet announced a 2024 run, although he frequently teases the idea in interviews and in front of rally crowds. His lawsuit is likely to face an uphill battle. Comparisons are generally viewed by courts as matters of opinion, rather than facts that can be defamatory. Among the examples the complaint cites of comparisons with the Nazi leader is a special report in January 2022 that included footage of the German dictator. It also references articles by Chris Cillizza, CNN editor-at-large. The complaint accuses him in on of likening Trump to Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels. 'One can only hope that Trump was unaware that his quote was a near-replication of this infamous line from Nazi Joseph Goebbels: "If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually come to believe it,"' he writes. Trump also said he was planning legal action against the House committee investigating the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. CNN declined to comment on the lawsuit. 'A lawsuit was filed today against CNN, the once prestigious news channel that has devolved into a purveyor of disinformation, defamation, and fake news, at a level which the American public, and indeed the world, will not even believe is possible,' said Trump in his statement. 'For years I have watched this take place, often in disbelief, but the time has finally come to hold CNN responsible and legally accountable for their willful deception and defamatory statements made about me and both, directly and indirectly, my strong, devoted, and patriotic supporters people who love the United States of America, but have been treated very unfairly, at so many levels.' The lawsuit comes as the former president faces a criminal investigation by the Justice Department for retaining government records at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after leaving office in January 2021. Earl Spencer has criticised 'niche' history taught in schools, claiming children 'miss out on so much'. The historian and younger brother of Princess Diana said he would like to broaden the way the subject was taught because pupils learn only about 'Hitler and Henry VIII'. 'This is one of my bugbears, how history is taught,' he said at the Henley Literary Festival. 'I'm 58 and I'm probably the last generation who was brought up on a very wide arena of British history just as standard fare because history was compulsory when I was at school. Earl Spencer has criticised 'niche' history taught in schools, claiming children 'miss out on so much' (pictured at the unveiling of a statue of his sister Diana in 2021) 'Now it's a niche subject and history teachers quite rightly have to attract people to their subject, so what they're going to do is give you Hitler and Henry VIII and I'm afraid things like Henry I just drop off the chart. 'I don't know if I would dare change [the curriculum] but I do think history is such an important subject, not in itself necessarily but for perspective and context. 'So I would broaden the way this is taught because I think you miss out on so much if you don't have it. 'But I realise I would be up against a lot of resistance.' The peer was speaking to promote his latest book, The White Ship: Conquest, Anarchy and the Wrecking of Henry I's Dream. He described the sinking of the vessel as 'the greatest maritime disaster in British history', adding: 'There's not been a shipwreck that has changed a dynasty and I think that's where it wins gold.' The White Ship sank in the Channel in 1120, killing William Adelin, Henry I's son and the heir to the throne. The historian and younger brother of Princess Diana said he would like to broaden the way the subject was taught because pupils learn only about 'Hitler and Henry VIII' (pictured at his book launch in 2018) It prompted a succession crisis and a period of civil war between 1138 and 1153 known as The Anarchy. Earl Spencer said it was extraordinary that so few people knew about the story yet in 1956 Winston Churchill felt it was too well known to put in his History of the English-Speaking Peoples. He added: 'My first history book was incredibly non-PC, it was called Our Island Story and it was a Victorian look back at how wonderful Britain has always been, and the Henry I chapter is basically about the White Ship because it was such a hackneyed subject up until the Seventies.' He also lamented the lack of understanding of the history behind road names. 'Out of all my education, the thing I'm most excited by is being able to see bits of history still alive,' he said. 'If you put Blenheim Road up now they'd think what the hell are you on about.' A survey by academics at Oxford and Reading universities last year found that a small number of schools said they had 'reduced the attention given to certain topics specifically medieval British or Tudor history in order to accommodate new ones or a new kind of emphasis'. A village pub landlady stabbed her waitress twice after wrongly suspecting the teenager was in a relationship with her partner. Luisa Santos, 47, told her husband Pedro that Hannah Pritchett was laughing at her and ordered him to choose between the 18-year-old and his family. The court heard that when he failed to act on her concerns, Santos armed herself with a large fish knife from the pub kitchen and stabbed Miss Pritchett in the bar as customers looked on. Jurors heard the Portuguese landlady screamed bitch, you bitch as she attacked. A village pub landlady, Luisa Santos (pictured) stabbed her waitress twice after wrongly suspecting the teenager was in a relationship with her partner Luisa Santos, 47, told her husband Pedro that Hannah Pritchett (pictured) was laughing at her and ordered him to choose between the 18-year-old and his family The court heard that morning she was seen beating eggs in a frenzy and when asked what was wrong, said: Its her. He chose her over our family. Prosecutor Peter Grieves-Smith told jurors that any belief that there had been an inappropriate relationship between Miss Pritchett and Santoss husband, a chef who held the pubs tenancy, was entirely misconceived. The court heard the attack at The Three Horseshoes in Princethorpe, Warwickshire, took place within minutes of Miss Pritchett arriving one Saturday lunchtime in May and was caught on CCTV. Footage shot from the other side of the bar showed Santos approach Miss Pritchett, who had been working at the pub for only six weeks, and twice thrust the blade into her left side from behind. The court heard the attack at The Three Horseshoes in Princethorpe, Warwickshire, took place within minutes of Miss Pritchett arriving one Saturday lunchtime in May and was caught on CCTV Warwick Crown Court heard the waitress ran towards her car in the car park, where she collapsed. She suffered two deep wounds and it was only through great fortune that she survived, the jury heard. Miss Pritchett, who had a boyfriend at the time of the attack, said she had not been aware that the landlady thought she was having an affair with her husband. The prosecutor told jurors Santos had already admitted wounding with intent and possessing a knife. The issue they would have to decide, he said, was whether Santos intended to kill. Santos, who lived above the pub with her husband and their children, denies attempted murder. The trial continues. Advertisement No one could accuse the Sussexes of not being on trend. Just days after the publication of an official picture of the Royal Family they left behind in Britain, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle released new photos of themselves. The couple are shown attending the One Young World summit for youth leaders in Manchester last month. The first image shows Meghan in a red blouse and matching trousers with a chunky gold ring and earrings. The duchess stands face on, looking into the camera and holding one of Harry's fingers. The duke stands behind her at an angle, smiling in a smart black suit and tie. The stance is reminiscent of the couple's 2021 Time magazine photo shoot, in which Meghan stood in the centre and Harry stood at an angle behind her with a hand resting on her shoulder. In the second image, taken 'just moments' before the opening ceremony of the summit, the couple are standing next to one each other, side-on to the camera, holding hands and looking out at the audience. Hand in hand: Harry and Meghan in the newly-released photos taken last month. The couple are shown attending the One Young World summit for youth leaders in Manchester In the second image, taken 'just moments' before the opening ceremony of the summit, the couple are standing next to one each other, side-on to the camera, holding hands and looking out at the audience The pictures of the Sussexes were taken by celebrity photographer Misan Harriman, director of the Southbank Centre and a friend of the couple who has taken photos of celebrities including Rihanna, Stormzy, Tom Cruise and Giorgio Armani. He posted them online last night days after the release of an official portrait of the so-called 'New Fab Four': King Charles, the Queen Consort and the Prince and Princess of Wales. The phrase 'Fab Four' was once used to refer to William, Harry, Kate and Meghan. Following the Sussexes' departure from Britain and the Queen's death last month, the picture stressed that Charles, William and their wives will be the new core of the Royal Family moving forward. The pictures of Harry and Meghan overshadowed images of the King and the Queen Consort's successful first public visit since the end of the Royal mourning period. Charles and Camilla were met with large crowds as they undertook one of the late Queen's last wishes and conferred city status on Dunfermline in Scotland. There is no suggestion the Sussexes deliberately timed the release of their images in an attempt to eclipse the King's visit. But is illustrative of the fact that since they moved to the US, they have not coordinated their activities with those of other members of the Royal Family, resulting in several clashes. One Young World hosts an annual summit for young leaders to 'be inspired, share learnings, and connect' as well as 'raise the bar for what it is possible to achieve as leaders, individually and collectively'. Meghan gave a speech at the opening ceremony of the event in Manchester. Addressing the 2,000-strong crowd, with representatives from 190 countries, she said it was 'nice to be back in the UK' and described the delegates as 'the future, but also the present, driving the positive and necessary change needed across the globe'. This week's official photo of the Royal Family's 'New Fab Four' Not so long ago, it was Princes William and Harry together with their wives who had been dubbed the 'Fab Four' carrying great hopes for the future of the Royal Family. The four are pictured together on September 10 Meghan Markle hires fact-checker for her Spotify podcast series Archetypes Meghan Markle has hired a fact-checker for her much-anticipated Spotify podcast series, Archetypes. Her poise and passion in front of a camera or microphone are surely unequalled in royal history. But these gifts haven't blinded the Duchess of Sussex to the fact that she, like the rest of mankind, is fallible. The Daily Mail's Richard Eden can reveal that Meghan has been employing a 'fact-checker' for Archetypes, which resumes today, having been suspended immediately after the Queen's death. Meghan hasn't chosen a run-of-the-mill recruit but a young and highly talented American writer, Nicole Pasulka, whose interests closely mirror her own. A fact-checker could cut through the confusion which has occasionally and unfortunately followed some of Meghan's statements. For example, in an interview with American magazine The Cut, she recalled chatting to a South African cast member of The Lion King at the film's 2019 London premiere. 'He said: 'I just need you to know: When you married into this family, we rejoiced in the streets the same we did when Mandela was freed from prison,' ' Meghan recalled. Yet Dr John Kani, the only South African cast member, has pointed out that he has never met Meghan and wasn't at the premiere. Of course, as the late Queen memorably put it on another occasion, 'recollections may vary'. Advertisement Harry and Meghan's new photos came as the first official portrait of King Charles with Queen Consort Camilla was being studied with affection and fascination all over the world. By their side stands the Prince of Wales, his eldest son and heir clearly a good deal taller than Charles and the newly appointed Princess of Wales, his wife. The photograph is brimming with symbolism of course: the new sovereign is pictured with his son and heir, while looming behind them is a glowering portrait of King George III, the longest-reigning male monarch in British history. But what is perhaps even more remarkable is that the picture was taken on the eve of the Queen's funeral, when our four most senior royals were about to host a huge reception for visiting Heads of State, including US President Joe Biden, at Buckingham Palace. The message, if one was needed, was clear: the business of monarchy never rests, even at times of great personal sorrow, and its enduring strength lies in its continuity. However it is also a reminder that the royals are always on duty even when they have to summon every inch of self-control, as they did during the public grieving for the Queen who for them was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother as well as the monarch. The photo also serves as a not-so-subtle nod to the King's wishes for a slimmed-down monarchy: one he believes will be more relevant and more resilient. The unspoken elephant in the room is the absence of the King's younger son, Harry. Three years ago, the Sussexes would have had every expectation to be part of this family ensemble. In fact, only four years ago, there was just such a photograph issued to mark the then-Prince of Wales's 70th birthday. But, within months, the unity and happiness that radiated from that image had vanished. Analysts allege it is surely can no coincidence that the picture was taken when the couple were still in Britain and several days before they returned home to their children Archie and Lilibet. It must, therefore, be yet another signal that they will never again return to their central role in royal life. Palace sources said that the picture had been taken to mark a 'historic moment' for the family. But there was more than just history on display here. The body language of all four is surprisingly relaxed. It speaks of warmth and acceptance. Harry and Meghan are pictured at Westminster Hall on September 14 Prince Harry, Prince William, then-Prince Charles, and Sir David Attenborough attend the 'Our Planet' global premiere at the Natural History Museum on April 4, 2019 in London, England Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan have ditched the glitzy public relations firm that has represented the former-actress since her days on legal drama Suits. The couple have ditched New York-based public relations outfit Sunshine Sachs sources confirmed to Richard Eden on Friday. 'This is a really big deal for Meghan,' the insider alleged. 'She takes the view that she doesn't need to pay an outside firm a lot of money to do PR for her and Harry any more.' Sunshine Sachs' partner Keleigh Thomas Morgan played a key role in establishing the Sussexes in California, sharing her contacts and a powerful network of advisers and famous friends. Keleigh, 45, was a long-term friend of Meghan's and helped devise the strategy for the couple's African tour in 2019, when they were still working members of the Royal Family. She was also a guest at the royal wedding and has represented American actor Tyler Perry, whose Los Angeles mansion Harry and Meghan used as a base while house-hunting. But from now on the publicity for the couple's numerous ventures is being handled 'in-house' at their charitable foundation, Archewell, by former Silicon Valley bigwig Christine Schirmer, who's head of communications. Toya Holness, who was appointed as 'global press secretary' in March 2021, was reported to have parted company with the Sussexes earlier this year. Schirmer should certainly be kept busy. Not only does Meghan's series of podcasts for audio giant Spotify resume broadcasting next week, but the couple have a string of big projects in the pipeline including Harry's highly controversial autobiography and a reality television show for U.S. streaming firm Netflix. Last week, the Mail on Sunday revealed that Harry had launched an 11th-hour bid to alter his memoir amid fears it would be seen as insensitive after the Queen's death, which saw a public outpouring of support for the Royal Family. The picture that tells Harry and Meghan there's no way back: The first official portrait of King Charles with Queen Consort Camilla - alongside William and Kate - carries an air of finality, writes RICHARD KAY By Richard Kay for the Daily Mail All over the world yesterday, the first official portrait of King Charles with Queen Consort Camilla was being studied with affection and fascination. Affection because rarely has Charles looked so at ease in a formal photograph, and fascination because with William and Kate, the new Prince and Princess of Wales, at his side, we have a glimpse of the present and future of the monarchy. Observers will search for clues about everything from its composition and backdrop to what it tells us about the long-term security not only of the Royal Family but, more pertinently, of the institution that they represent. The photograph is brimming with symbolism of course: the new sovereign is pictured with his son and heir, while looming behind them is a glowering portrait of King George III, the longest-reigning male monarch in British history. But what is perhaps even more remarkable is that the picture was taken on the eve of the Queen's funeral, when our four most senior royals were about to host a huge reception for visiting Heads of State, including US President Joe Biden, at Buckingham Palace. The photograph is brimming with symbolism of course: the new sovereign is pictured with his son and heir, while looming behind them is a glowering portrait of King George III, the longest-reigning male monarch in British history The message, if one was needed, was clear: the business of monarchy never rests, even at times of great personal sorrow, and its enduring strength lies in its continuity. However it is also a reminder that the royals are always on duty even when they have to summon every inch of self-control, as they did during the public grieving for the Queen who for them was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother as well as the monarch. Palace sources said that the picture had been taken to mark a 'historic moment' for the family. But there was more than just history on display here. The body language of all four is surprisingly relaxed. It speaks of warmth and acceptance. The taller William and Kate may physically dominate, but the eye is drawn to the new King, a pace closer to the camera, and wearing an easy confidence. For once, those cuff-tugging mannerisms and general fidgeting so familiar from any number of ceremonial portraits are absent. One hand rests comfortably behind Camilla's back while the other is casually thrust into his jacket pocket. But it is the hint of a smile on his face that is the most telling. It is the look of a man who is not daunted by what lies ahead but rather is invigorated by it. Palace sources said that the picture had been taken to mark a 'historic moment' for the family. But there was more than just history on display here. The body language of all four is surprisingly relaxed. It speaks of warmth and acceptance There is another significant factor here too. And it is a not-so-subtle nod to his wishes for a slimmed-down monarchy: one he believes will be more relevant and more resilient. Some will wonder if this is not just slimming down, but cutting to the bone. The unspoken elephant in the room is the absence of the King's younger son. Three years ago, Prince Harry and his wife Meghan would have had every expectation to be part of this family ensemble. Indeed, only four years ago, there was just such a photograph issued to mark the then-Prince of Wales's 70th birthday. But, within months, the unity and happiness that radiated from that image had vanished. So it is not difficult to imagine how this picture will be viewed in sunny California, where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are based. Might it deepen their feelings of exclusion and exile, or will it merely serve to remind them why they chose to break from the family in the first place? It surely can be no coincidence that the picture was taken when the couple were still in Britain and several days before they returned home to their children Archie and Lilibet. It must, therefore, be yet another signal that they will never again return to their central role in royal life. Might it deepen their feelings of exclusion and exile, or will it merely serve to remind them why they chose to break from the family in the first place? One reason that they chose to walk away in the first place was because they did not wish to share the spotlight. In America, they are at the centre of their own production. But in Britain, there is a new royal order and it revolves around four people, not six. There is a finality about this photo that suggests there is no way back for a couple who could have been at the epicentre of royalty, but are now at its margins. Is it the dagger to their hearts it was for Prince Andrew when he was first excluded from the Palace balcony? It certainly feels like it. Over the years the Queen often curated the photographs around her when she spoke to the nation for her Christmas message. She did so in 2019, when on her desk were pictures of her own father and Charles, but also William and Prince George. Here, it said, was monarchy past, present and future. The omission of Harry was said to have contributed to his break from the family just weeks later. Rather than photographs, King Charles commandeered the art on the walls of his new palace home for this image and he selected carefully. Choosing as backdrop a king who reigned for 60 years was another nod to the permanence and preservation of monarchy. It is a lesson Prince Harry could do well to study, because every royal picture tells a story. Why Harry snubbed William's offer of a secret summit to heal their rift: In a bombshell TV interview, Harry said he and his brother were on 'different paths'. William was blindsided, but when he suggested a crisis meeting, the response was heartbreaking In the final extract from his riveting new book on how the Sussexes' relationship with palace staff deteriorated, VALENTINE LOW recalls the impact of the couple's shocking TV interviews and examines the truth behind their claims . . . The first intimation that Meghan might be a victim as well as a possibly rather difficult employer and sister-in-law came in an ITV documentary. Filmed in a garden in Johannesburg, during the Sussexes's 2019 tour of South Africa, she'd spoken to presenter Tom Bradby about how she'd struggled with life in the spotlight, both as a newlywed and as a new mother. He'd then asked her what the impact of all that pressure had been on her physical and mental health. Looking vulnerable, almost as though she was trying to hold back tears, Meghan said she'd found it hard, and added: 'Thank you for asking, because not many people have asked if I'm OK. But it's a very real thing to be going through behind the scenes.' A preview of Bradby's documentary was screened for the media while William and Kate were on a tour of Pakistan that October. And, inevitably, the resulting coverage, with its headlines of 'Meghan: My Struggles', overshadowed coverage of the last day of the Cambridges' tour. VALENTINE LOW: Prince Harry snubbed William's offer of a secret summit to heal their rift (pictured standing during the unveiling of a statue they commissioned of their mother Diana in 2021) William and Kate's team was not happy, it seems, and saw it as a deliberate attempt to knock the couple out of the headlines. Relations between the two households became quite tense. The documentary had also shown not only Meghan's evident pain but also how far Harry and William had drifted apart. Asked by Bradby about the rift between him and William, Harry had chosen not to deny it, but said instead: 'We are certainly on different paths at the moment . . . As brothers, you know, you have good days, you have bad days.' William, home after the Pakistan tour, appears to have been taken aback at such a stark portrayal of his brother and sister-in-law's unhappiness. He realised they were in crisis. The first intimation that Meghan might be a victim as well as a possibly rather difficult employer and sister-in-law came in an ITV documentary. Pictured: Meghan in An African Journey with Tom Bradby The day after the documentary aired, William WhatsApped his brother to ask if he could come and see him. This put Harry and Meghan into a spin. What should they do? Initially, Harry was in favour. Then he spoke to his brother again, and asked him whom he would tell. William explained that he'd have to clear his schedule, which would mean telling his private secretary. At that point, Harry told him: Don't come. He was so concerned that William's team would leak the visit to the Press that he would rather not see his brother than risk it getting into the papers. To everyone who knew what was going on, this was heartbreaking. It highlighted the dysfunction at the heart of so many royal relationships, and how members of the Royal Family so rarely pick up the phone to speak to each other directly. Instead, they communicate via the apparatus around them. And the result is mistrust and division. In her interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, Meghan would discuss her mental fragility at greater length. In her interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, Meghan would discuss her mental fragility at greater length She talked about the pressure she'd felt from online abuse and the critical media coverage, pressure that she once described in a podcast as 'almost unsurvivable'. Watching her talk about her pain, and describe how she did not want to live any more, is an uncomfortable experience. Most people would think such an expression of despair could be rooted only in truth. And yet a succession of decent people, all of whom had believed in Meghan and wanted to make her position work, came to be so disillusioned that they began to suspect that even her most heartfelt pleas for help were part of a deliberate strategy that had one end in sight her departure. Perhaps, they say, nothing the palace could do was ever going to be good enough. 'She was looking for examples of us failing her from the beginning,' believes one former staffer. 'We were having to prove that the institution would bend over backwards to make her happy. 'It felt like that wasn't what she wanted, but that she wanted to be rejected.' The feeling among like-minded staff was that Meghan wanted to leave a trail of evidence behind, so that when the time came for the couple to leave the monarchy, she would be able to say: 'Look how they failed to support me. They left me with no choice but to leave.' Crucially, it was the Queen who took the view that unless they were prepared to abide by the restrictions that applied to working members of the Royal Family, they couldn't be allowed to carry out part-time official duties. Meghan and The Queen are pictured in 2018 Some staff saw the problem as inextricably linked with the couple's fury about some of the press coverage, which they felt was sexist and even racist. It also stung that Meghan had been dubbed Duchess Difficult because of the high staff turnover in their household. As one source put it: 'The way I see it, their view of not getting institutional support was that they were not getting permission to blow up the [royal] institution's relationships with the media.' Others suspected that, in the end, Meghan wanted to make money for herself. And the only way she could do that was by leaving behind her royal life in the UK and returning to America. Too cynical? Perhaps. But the sad truth is that the relationships between Meghan and her advisers were in such a sorry state that this is what they genuinely believed. Some argue that she never really wanted to be accepted by the Royal Family. That may be true. But it's also true that if the institution had tried harder, and if she'd been more willing to adapt herself to palace life, she could have been one of the Royal Family's greatest assets. The documentary had also shown not only Meghan's evident pain but also how far Harry and William had drifted apart The idea that she wanted to be rejected is challenged by her lawyers, Schillings. Instead, they say she had a 'clear desire to fit in'. 'She left her country, career and life in North America to commit herself fully to her new role and made every effort to honour that commitment.' If the danger signs were there from the beginning, so were the warnings. The Sussexes' private secretary Sam Cohen told two key courtiers the private secretaries to both Prince Charles and the Queen that if it all went wrong with Harry and Meghan, the palace needed evidence of the duty of care the institution had shown them. The 'duty of care' was crucial: '[Sam] was a broken record with them on that,' said a source. By the time Meghan gave her interview to Oprah Winfrey, however, the palace had lost the argument over duty of care. It also stung that Meghan had been dubbed Duchess Difficult because of the high staff turnover in their household The duchess had hijacked the narrative by making it all about her mental health, which meant everything the palace had done to support the couple including giving them a team who'd have done anything to help them succeed was simply forgotten. Instead, the duchess was able to point out all the times that the organisation had failed her. One of them was when she went to the palace's head of HR in January 2019, saying she needed to get help with her mental health issues. She was given a sympathetic hearing but sent on her way, as was inevitable: HR is there to deal with employee issues, not members of the Royal Family. Meghan would presumably have known that, so what was she doing there in the first place? Laying a trail of evidence would be the cynical answer. So desperate that she did not know where to turn would be the more charitable interpretation. In the Oprah interview, Meghan also made the startling claim that she went to one of the 'most senior people,' saying she needed to go somewhere to get help only to be told it wouldn't be 'good for the institution'. It is a strange thought: would anyone really say that to a pregnant woman? Until one hears from the other person in the room, it's difficult to know what to make of this. However, the truth remains that Meghan appears to have been in a bad place. And Harry knew she was suffering. Yet when Oprah asked why he didn't go to his own family to say his wife needed help, he said: 'I guess I was ashamed of admitting it to them.' We can all understand such feelings of shame: mental health can be hard to talk about. However, there is also something not quite right here. Since 2016, Harry had devoted much of his energy to Heads Together, a campaign he had launched with William and Kate to try to persuade people to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health. Years before, he'd decided to seek help himself after suffering his own mental crisis. Could he not have helped his wife do likewise? And if he couldn't, he must have met scores of people through Heads Together who could have offered help and support. As one well-informed source said: 'He would have known exactly where to turn, who to call, what to do.' Elsewhere in the Oprah interview, Meghan talked warmly of Julia Samuel, the psychotherapist who had been a friend of Princess Diana and remained close to Harry. She had, Meghan said, 'continued to be a friend and confidante'. Julia Samuel would also, presumably, have been an ideal person for the couple to go to for help. VALENTINE LOW recalls the impact of the couple's shocking TV interviews and examines the truth behind their claims. Pictured: The 'Fab Four' on September 10 Analysing Meghan's interview with Oprah is a complicated business, because some of it simply isn't true. That doesn't mean, however, that all of it isn't true. One of the moments that is glaringly misleading is when Meghan tells Oprah: 'When I joined that family, that was the last time . . . that I saw my passport, my driver's licence, my keys. All that gets turned over. I didn't see any of that any more.' In the first six months of her marriage, there had been foreign holidays in Italy, Canada and Amsterdam, to say nothing of the couple's honeymoon. Then in 2019, Meghan visited Ibiza, France, Italy and New York (twice). It would have been a challenge to do all those trips without a passport. I'm not going to go through every example in the interview of statements that are untrue, or misleading, such as her claim that they actually got married three days before their wedding. It's instructive, however, to look at one of Meghan's central claims: that the palace was not doing enough to stand up for her. She told Oprah: 'Not only was I not being protected . . . they were willing to lie to protect other members of the family, but they weren't willing to tell the truth to protect me and my husband.' The overriding issue that concerned her was a newspaper story about Kate crying after a bridesmaid's dress fitting for Princess Charlotte that took place before the wedding. 'The narrative with Kate which didn't happen was really, really difficult,' Meghan told Oprah. 'I think that's when everything changed, really.' However, the truth remains that Meghan appears to have been in a bad place. And Harry knew she was suffering (Harry and William pictured in 2018) The truth is that, after the dress fitting, Meghan had become obsessed with trying to persuade the palace press office to put something out denying the story. However, they were equally adamant that it would be a serious mistake to start briefing about personal stories relating to differences between members of the Royal Family. Not only did they not want to brief against other royals, but they feared it would create a precedent, making it harder in future for them to avoid commenting on personal tittle-tattle. It would also fan the flames of the story, ensuring it continued to fill the pages of the newspapers for several days to come. This became a major point of contention between Meghan and her media advisers. On Oprah, Meghan went further than denying the Kate-in-tears story, however. Instead, she said, the reverse had happened. 'She was upset about something pertaining [to] flower-girl dresses, and it made me cry, and it really hurt my feelings.' It was not an attractive performance: Meghan had spent months complaining about how her reputation had been smeared in the Press, and now she was doing the same to Kate, who quite clearly was never going to respond. The story of Kate's tears was not the first time Meghan had tried to persuade the press office to brief journalists about an issue that was bothering her. The other concerned the departure of a member of staff, whose settlement deal contained a non-disclosure agreement. Despite the employee being legally obliged to remain silent, the Sussexes who say they didn't know about the non-disclosure agreement repeatedly tried to get their communications secretary Jason Knauf to brief journalists about what Meghan saw as the reason behind the employee's departure. Knauf refused, because he disagreed with Meghan's interpretation of events. He also thought briefing against the individual was wrong. Looking back on the saga of Harry and Meghan's rift with the Royal Family, there are still questions to be asked. Were the senior courtiers in the royal institution Prince Charles's private secretary Clive Alderton; and the Queen's, Edward Young unaware of Meghan and Harry's deepening unhappiness? Or were they burying their heads in the sand? Did they let their personal dislike of Meghan prevent them from seeing the very obvious dangers that lay ahead? Looking back on the saga of Harry and Meghan's rift with the Royal Family, there are still questions to be asked One former palace insider believes the way the developing crisis was handled was 'incompetent beyond belief'. 'I think Meghan thought she was going to be the Beyonce of the UK,' said the insider. 'Being part of the Royal Family would give her that kudos. 'What she discovered was that there were so many rules that were so ridiculous, she couldn't even do the things she could have done as a private individual . . . 'It required the decision-makers to sit around a table and say: 'OK, what are we going to do about this? What do you need to feel better? And what can we give?' The situation wasn't helped by Harry and Meghan's deteriorating relationship with both Young and Alderton. Meghan apparently saw the Queen's private secretary as 'an inflexible, bureaucratic figure' and Harry was just as dismissive of the two senior courtiers as she was. So another view is nothing could have saved the situation. The two sides were just too far apart. But the Sussexes wanted their freedom to make money AND to dip their toes into U.S. politics. There was no way to reach an agreement on that point (picture 2021) Crucially, it was the Queen who took the view that unless they were prepared to abide by the restrictions that applied to working members of the Royal Family, they couldn't be allowed to carry out part-time official duties. But the Sussexes wanted their freedom to make money AND to dip their toes into U.S. politics. There was no way to reach an agreement on that point. There is one final thought on this, from a surprising source: perhaps the Sussexes' departure from the country and the Royal Family was not the untrammelled disaster so many think it was. One courtier, who knows Harry and remains upset about what he and Meghan did, said: 'Part of me thinks Meghan did Harry the greatest kindness anyone could do, which was to take him out of the Royal Family, because he was desperately unhappy in the last couple of years of his working life. 'We knew he was unhappy, but we didn't really know what the solution would be. She came along and found the solution.' Adapted by Corinna Honan from Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind The Crown, by Valentine Low, to be published by Headline on Thursday at 20. Valentine Low 2022. To order a copy for 18 (offer valid to 15/10/22; UK P&P free on orders over 20), visit mailshop.co.uk/books or call 020 3176 2937. The shocking extent of police failures on burglary can be laid bare today with just 1.7 per cent of break-ins leading to charges in some areas. Over the past five years, an average of 774 burglaries have gone unsolved every day across England and Wales. And over that time the number of offenders facing justice has fallen by 56 per cent. There were 25,454 charges and summons in 2017-18 but just 11,271 in the 12 months to March. Forces logged 1.76million burglaries from 2017 to 2022 but only 5 per cent of those resulted in criminal charges or a court summons. It means that for 1.41million victims, their case was closed without a suspect being identified. Forces logged 1.76million burglaries from 2017 to 2022 but only 5 per cent of those resulted in criminal charges or a court summons. It means that for 1.41million victims, their case was closed without a suspect being identified Home Secretary Suella Braverman has now written to police chiefs urging them to send an officer to every domestic burglary because in some force areas just one in four raids are attended. Official data unearthed by the Liberal Democrats shows that the average charging rate for domestic burglaries was just 3.5 per cent in the year to March. The figure for the West Mercia and Hampshire forces was just 1.7 per cent. Wiltshire Police charged just 28 suspects over the whole year, despite logging 1,103 domestic burglaries. Similarly, just 31 of the 1,307 raids reported to North Yorkshire Police resulted in charges. The highest prosecution rate was in South Wales, when 7.6 per cent of reports ended in court action. Andy Cooke, the chief inspector of constabulary, is calling for a back to basics approach to burglary. In August a devastating HMIC audit revealed that the vast majority of victims were being let down because forces were missing opportunities to catch suspects from the moment crimes were reported. In many areas, call handlers were failing to provide advice to homeowners to preserve evidence and there were not enough adequately trained officers to handle cases which were then farmed out to inexperienced rookies. Some forces were taking as long as six months to return fingerprint identifications, which ruled out prosecutions in magistrates courts under statutory time limits. Similarly, just 31 of the 1,307 raids reported to North Yorkshire Police resulted in charges. The highest prosecution rate was in South Wales, when 7.6 per cent of reports ended in court action Mr Cooke, who is the former chief constable of Merseyside, said: Burglary is a crime that strikes at the heart of how safe we feel in our homes. We know the police are overstretched but too often, they are not bringing offenders to justice, nor giving victims the service they deserve. The police response to burglary, robbery and theft needs to improve. Theres a postcode lottery: depending on where a burglary takes place, victims may receive a vastly different response. But across the board, victims are not getting the service they deserve nor the justice they seek. Former victims commissioner Vera Baird said: People need to feel safe in their own homes. What are the police for if they cant tackle burglary? These figures featured by the Mail are shocking. Burglary hits at the heart of personal safety, security and family, it can fracture wellbeing. Frankly, it can terrify. Many victims do not recover from the fear that if they go out that someone will enter and rifle everything they own all over again. Police must attend every domestic burglary to investigate, restore some sense of safety and treat with respect the victims whose lives have been abused by burglary. Alistair Carmichael, Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman, said: Everyone should be able to feel safe in their own homes, and know that if someone does break in they will be caught and punished. But with the vast majority of burglaries going unsolved and charging rates pathetically low, thats simply not the reality for people today. Prevention tactics have led to burglary levels overall falling by 51 per cent in the past decade, but some chief constables accept that they should be doing more This Conservative Government is letting down victims and allowing criminals to get away with it. Having suffered the distress and trauma of being burgled, families are being left without the closure they need and the justice they deserve. At the very least, people should be able to expect that if they are burgled, the police will attend the scene and investigate properly. The Government must make that possible by giving police the officers, time and resources that they need. The constabulary inspectorates report highlighted the devastation caused by repeat offenders, who cause 18billion of economic and social losses each year. More than half of this is the result of theft. Around 30 per cent of burglary victims have had their homes ransacked before and College of Policing analysis suggests properties within 400 metres of one raided are more likely to be targeted in the following six weeks. Mr Cookes report argued that the costs of prioritising burglary for a force would be balanced by the benefits. He cited South Yorkshire Polices calculation that the cost of a single burglary to the force was 530 only a little less than the cost of police intervention in a crime hotspot. This means that the latter tactic could pay off handsomely. Prevention tactics have led to burglary levels overall falling by 51 per cent in the past decade, but some chief constables accept that they should be doing more. Scotland Yard Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley kicked off his tenure last month by committing to send an officer to every domestic raid. Mrs Braverman has told police chiefs to step up their response: To put it simply, the public want to know that an officer will visit them after a crime such as burglary. They want to feel safe in their cities, towns and villages. This is not just about doing your day job well, it is also about victims needing to feel supported and not ignored. Overall, the number of domestic burglary offences has fallen by almost a third since June 2019 but statistics show a rise in aggravated burglaries, which is defined as an offence of burglary in which the offender is in possession of a weapon. In some parts of the country, armed raids have soared by more than 600 per cent over the past five years. r.camber@dailymail.co.uk I tracked down the masked intruder myself... but the officers did nothing A pensioner who tracked down her burglar was told he would have to be caught red-handed for police to do anything about it. Sheila Travis, 69, was frozen with fear when the masked thief appeared at the foot of her bed. He ransacked her home of 27 years stealing her phone, laptops, car keys, rings, mothers jewellery and her late husbands memory box. The mother of one, who had lost her partner Brian to cancer two years earlier, was determined to catch the thief who barged into her home in January. And the former fire station cleaner had to do the legwork herself. Mrs Travis managed to locate her stolen mobile on the app Find My Phone and gave detectives the suspects address in Redcar, ten miles from her home in Middlesbrough. But officers found nobody was in and closed the case five weeks later telling Mrs Travis they would have needed to catch the thief at her house. I was gutted. I honestly thought the police could have used the information I gave them. But they didnt, she said. I felt nobody else was helping me. It totally drained me. Mrs Travis has since spent 2,800 on replacing the stolen goods and on security measures. A Cleveland Police spokesman said: Officers have been in touch with the victim and are liaising with her while reviewing the actions that took place. Sheila Travis, 69, was frozen with fear when the masked thief appeared at the foot of her bed. Advertisement We have to get back to basics to combat this traumatic crime by Andy Cooke Burglary affects thousands of people across the country every day. But too many victims may not see a single officer. That cant be right, especially when you consider that burglary is an invasive, often traumatic, crime that strikes at the heart of how safe we feel in our homes. We published a report in August that found there is a postcode lottery: depending on where a burglary takes place, victims may receive a vastly different response. I was a police officer for more than three decades and served as a detective at every rank. Im under no illusions when it comes to the unrelenting pressure on our police forces and the complex demands they deal with. I witnessed daily the courageous, professional and compassionate acts that the public seldom hear about. The police are the service of first, last and sometimes only resort and officers spend a huge amount of time stepping in when other, equally overstretched services cannot. I know some police officers will be reading this and asking that if they are to prioritise burglary, what equally vital issue should be deprioritised. I sympathise with this but the current situation is unacceptable and unsustainable, and something must change. If the public is to trust the police, they must believe wholeheartedly that officers will do their best to properly and thoroughly investigate the crimes reported to them. This means speaking to victims, collecting forensic and digital evidence, and chasing down all lines of enquiry. If the public is to trust the police, they must believe wholeheartedly that officers will do their best to properly and thoroughly investigate the crimes reported to them. This means speaking to victims, collecting forensic and digital evidence, and chasing down all lines of enquiry We have called for police chiefs to improve crime scene management and levels of supervision so that investigations are conducted effectively. A back-to-basics approach is needed as, unfortunately, it is these basics that are too often overlooked. Our report identified failings in the way forces are handling burglaries from the moment a victim picks up the phone to report the crime, right down to the moment the case is closed. We found that call handlers offered crime scene preservation advice designed to allow officers to gather vital forensic evidence in just 28 per cent of the cases we examined. As forces struggle to cope with a chronic shortage of experienced detectives, we found cases given to newly-trained officers without any experience in making arrests, building casefiles or attending court. And in a third of the cases we examined, there was inadequate evidence of good-quality supervision. We know many officers share our concerns and are frustrated at the low level of charges being brought. I do not seek to criticise the vast majority of hard-working and dedicated officers and staff who on a daily basis are doing their best to keep us safe. And I want to reassure the public that its not all doom and gloom: yes, our report found the response needs to improve, but it also found examples of innovative and exciting approaches to tackle burglary. The will to improve is there, and it is now up to police leaders to ensure their officers are equipped to make these improvements with the right training, supervision and oversight. Terrifying rise in raiders who carry guns and knives Rates of violent burglary have soared six-fold in some parts of the country, shocking new figures show. The number of raids carried out with weapons including guns, knives or axes has risen by 13 per cent in the past five years across England and Wales. But Derbyshire Police has seen a 632 per cent rise in aggravated burglaries from 31 in 2017 to 227 in the last year. Just 8 per cent of the 751 offences recorded in the county over the past five years has led to anyone being charged or summoned to court. West Midlands Police have also seen a huge rise of 439 per cent in violent raids from 70 in 2017 to 377 in the year to March. Forces in North Wales and Cleveland have seen the rate of aggravated burglaries double over the last five years, according to the statistics uncovered by the Liberal Democrats. Victoria Fuller, Clevelands assistant chief constable, said: While the data does show a rise in aggravated burglary during the period 2018-19 to 2019-20, for the last three years the numbers have remained static. A 130 per cent increase sounds significant but it actually relates to 60 additional offences. A Derbyshire Police spokesman claimed the data it had supplied to the Home Office was wrong and insisted: The force has made significant improvements to our crime recording processes, taking a victim focused approach to crime recording in line with national standards. One of Australia's most infamous murder cases has taken its final turn as a convicted killer is released on parole after spending 13 years in prison for the mysterious death of her partner. Susan Neill-Fraser, 65, was convicted of murdering her partner Bob Chappell aboard their yacht, Four Winds, at Sandy Bay, Tasmania, on Australia Day, 2009. Neill-Fraser has always maintained her innocence while jailed at Mary Hutchinson Women's Prison at Risdon Vale. She also consistently refused to apply for parole as that would have required an admission of guilt - but the parole board has decided to set her free on licence without a confession. Neill-Fraser was sentenced to 26 years in prison with a non-parole period of 18 years after a jury unanimously found her guilty of murder in October 2010. This sentence was reduced on appeal to 23 with a non-parole period of 13 years. Susan Neill-Fraser (left), 65, has been granted parole after spending the past 13 years at the Mary Hutchinson Women's Prison at Risdon Vale, after she was convicted of murdering partner Bob Chappell (right) aboard their yacht, Four Winds, at Sandy Bay, Tasmania on Australia Day, 2009 Neill-Fraser (pictured) has maintained her innocence following her sentencing in 2010 Police have never managed to find Mr Chappell's body or a possible murder weapon. And no explanation has ever been given for how the DNA of Meaghan Vass, who was then a homeless 15-year-old girl, ended up on the yacht, ABC News reported. Ms Vass is alleged to have told several different versions of her story over the years, including that she was never even on the yacht. This infamous case attracted strong interest through books and TV documentaries across Australia as well as internationally. Neill-Fraser was known to be a 'model prisoner' during her time, who had made pavlovas for fellow inmates for birthdays, provided legal advice and helped with reading. Neill-Fraser (pictured) chose not to apply for parole throughout her sentence, as she wanted to leave prison with a full exoneration Meaghan Vass's DNA was found aboard the yacht (pictured) but she told the original trial she was not on the boat But in September last year, Neill-Fraser was put in solitary confinement for five days, with all privileges revoked after writing about 'a day in the life' of a female prisoner. Her day to day experiences were later published on a supporter's website, in breach of strict prison rules. She also went on a hunger strike in 2017 when she was moved to medium security after contraband was allegedly found in her cell. The contraband, according to her daughter Sarah Bowles, was a pair of pre-approved kids' craft scissors as well as a tube of make-up, purchased from the prison canteen. Neill-Fraser had two failed appeals against her conviction in 2017 and 2021. She also lost an effort last month to overturn her conviction in the nation's highest court after the High Court refused her application for leave to appeal. North Korea has fired a ballistic missile over Japan for the first time in five years, a hugely provocative move that ramps up simmering tensions in the eastern Pacific. The missile was launched around 7.20am Tuesday from North Korea's Mupyong-ri test site, near the border with China, and passed over Japan's Tohoku region around five minutes later. Warning sirens sounded and civilians were told to take cover. The rocket passed over the mainland and continued 1,800 miles off Japan's eastern coast before splashing down in the Pacific around 7.45am - making it the longest-ranged North Korea missile test ever. No damage was caused and nobody was hurt. None-the-less, the test is a clear provocation likely in response to joint US, South Korean and Japanese naval drills last week and that North Korean despot Kim Jong Un regards as a rehearsal for an invasion. It also comes off the back of a quick-fire series of North Korean missile tests - now five in 10 days - and comes amid US warnings the country is gearing up for another nuclear test. North Korea has test-fired a ballistic missile that flew over Japan's Tohoku region and 1,800 miles out into the Pacific before splashing down Kim ordered the missile test - the fifth in 10 days - after the US, South Korea and Japan held joint naval war games that he perceives as a rehearsal for an invasion Ankit Panda, an expert in North Korea's missile programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the missile launched appears to be a Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile. If that is correct, then the weapon is nothing new: North Korea first tested it back in 2017 and has carried out at least four launches since, including Tuesday's test. However, Pyongyang typically fires the missiles almost straight up into the air - limiting their range so that they land only a short distance off the coast. For the new test, Kim's scientists fired at a lower trajectory meaning the missile travelled almost 2,800 miles - though it still reached a maximum height of 620 miles, more than twice the height the International Space Station orbits it. If fired on a standard trajectory, it is thought the missile would be capable of ranging up to 3,700 miles - putting Alaska, India, most of central Asia, Indonesia and small parts of northern Australia within range. Hwasong-12 is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead in its nose. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned the launch and called North Korea's actions 'barbaric.' He noted that the government would continue to gather and analyse information. Speaking to reporters shortly after the launch Mr Kishida said: 'A ballistic missile is believed to have passed over our country and fallen in the Pacific Ocean. 'This is an act of violence following recent repeated launches of ballistic missiles. We strongly condemn this.' Hirokazu Matsuno, Japan's top government spokesperson, held a brief news conference early Tuesday, alleging Pyongyang's launches 'threatens peace and security.' 'North Korea's series of actions, including its repeated ballistic missile launches, threatens the peace and security of Japan, the region, and the international community, and poses a serious challenge to the entire international community, including Japan,' he said. The launch had prompted an evacuation warning across Japan. 'North Korea appears to have launched a missile,' the Japanese government said in an alert issued on Tuesday at 7.29am local time. 'Please evacuate into buildings or underground.' National broadcaster NHK said the alert was in effect for two northern regions of the country, where the missile was believed to be headed. Around 8am, the prime minister's office then tweeted that 'a projectile that appears to be a North Korean ballistic missile has likely flown over Japan'. In a statement, Japan's coastguard said the missile appeared to have already landed in the sea and warned vessels not to approach any falling objects. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the missle appeared to have been an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) launched from North Korea's Jagang Province. North Korea has used that province to launch several recent tests, including multiple missiles that it claimed were 'hypersonic.' TV Asahi, citing an unnamed government source, said North Korea might have fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and it fell into the sea some 3,000 km (1,860 miles) from Japan. South Korea staged its own show of advanced weaponry on Saturday to mark its Armed Forces Day, including multiple rocket launchers, ballistic missiles, main battle tanks, drones and F-35 fighters. The test prompted East Japan Railway Co to suspend its train operations in the northern regions, Japanese broadcaster NHK reported. The North has completed preparations for a nuclear test, which it might look to undertake sometime between China's Communist Party Congress this month and US mid-term elections in November, South Korean lawmakers said last week. The launch was part of a record-breaking streak of weapons tests by Pyongyang, as South Korea ramps up military drills with the US. The US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan is pictured during a US-South Korea combined naval exercise on September 29 US Vice President Kamala Harris speaks to the press as she visits at the Joint Security Area on the Demilitarized Zone in the border village of Panmunjom in Paju, north of Seoul, South Korea on September 29 South Korea has said North Korea has fired a ballistic missile toward its eastern waters US Vice President Kamala Harris visited South Korea last week. She used binoculars to view North Korea from the demilitarised zone, hours after she claimed the US had a 'strong alliance' with the enemy. Video of Harris' visit to South Korean on Thursday shows the vice president, accompanied by US soldiers, marveling as she looked into North Korea. 'There's something about seeing it... with your own eyes,' Harris comments. 'And it's so close.' The service member then corrects her, saying: 'It's 50 meters away, mam.' 'Oh, right,' she replied. North Korea fired missiles before and after Harris' visit to South Korea, extending a record pace in weapons testing this year as it increases the threat of a credible nuclear power that can strike the United States and its allies. Ms Harris met South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in Seoul during her four-day trip earlier this week to discuss the alliance between their two countries. They issued a joint statement condemning the 'provocative nuclear rhetoric and ballistic missile launches' by North Korea. The leaders also 'reaffirmed [their] alignment... and goal of the complete denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula'. The missile launches came before and after a four-day visit by US Vice President Kamala Harris. She is pictured on September 29 at a military operation post that overlooks North Korea at the demilitarised zone Vice President Harris met South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on September 29 - the pair issued a joint statement condemning the missile launches North Korea's foreign ministry also issued its support on Tuesday for Russia's proclaimed annexation of parts of Ukraine and accused the of applying 'gangster-like double standards' in interfering in other country's affairs. State media KCNA reported on a US-led UN Security Council resolution condemning the proclaimed annexation, which was vetoed on Friday by Russia, backing Moscow's claim that the regions chose to be part of Russia. Kyiv and Western leaders condemned the referendums as a sham, with Washington urging UN member states not to recognise any altered status of Ukraine, and Russia to withdraw its troops from the regions where it has seized territory by force and fighting still rages. Jo Chol Su, director-general of international organisations at Pyongyang's Foreign Ministry, said the referendums were held legitimately in line with the UN charter, but the United States was holding 'gangster-like double standards' after having invaded other countries to maintain its own 'supremacy.' North Korea's foreign ministry also issued its support on Tuesday for Russia's proclaimed annexation of parts of Ukraine. Pictured: Destroyed buildings in Izium, Ukraine on Monday 'To maintain the unchallenged 'unipolar world', the US interferes in the internal affairs of independent countries and infringes upon their legal rights by abusing the UNSC,' Jo said in a statement carried by KCNA. 'The US unleashed wars of aggression against sovereign states including former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan and Iraq, but the US has not been called into question by the UNSC.' Jo said the Security Council would face consequences if it follows Washington's 'highhanded and arbitrary practices and partial and double-standards acts.' Ukraine severed relations with North Korea, an old Cold-War ally with Russia, in July after Pyongyang recognised two breakaway self-proclaimed republics in Ukraine's east. The US said last month that Russia was in the buying millions of rockets and artillery shells from North Korea for use in Ukraine. Hundreds of ancient footprints found on Formby beach in Merseyside reveal wolves, lynx and wild boar roamed the area alongside humans before a major decline in biodiversity 5,500 years ago. The first date back almost 9,000 years and the youngest are about 1,000 years old - and one even reveals the outline of a bunion, researchers claim. The study reveals how the coastal environment transformed over thousands of years, as sea levels rapidly rose and humans settled permanently by the water. University of Manchester experts found that the area close to the modern shoreline in Formby was a hub of human and animal activity in the first few thousand years after the last glacial period. It was such a biodiversity hotspot with large grazers and predators that it has been dubbed a 'northwest European Serengeti'. The sandy stretch of the north-west England coast is already known to be home to one of the largest collections of prehistoric animal tracks on Earth. Hundreds of ancient animal and human footprints found on a beach in Merseyside record a major decline in biodiversity in Britain around 5,500 years ago, researchers have discovered University of Manchester experts found that the area close to the modern shoreline in Formby was a hub of human and animal activity in the first few thousand years after the last glacial period. Pictured: Red deer hoof print in the ancient mud on Formby beach radiocarbon dated to about 8,500 years ago Global sea levels rose rapidly after the last ice age, leading to the loss of landscapes. The location of Formby Point in the Irish Sea Basin is shown in this graphic above But now, with the hope of radiocarbon dating, the most species-rich footprint beds at Formby Point have been found to be much older than previously thought. The beds record a key period in the natural history of Britain from Mesolithic to Medieval times (9,000 to 1,000 years ago). They show that as global sea levels rose rapidly after the last ice age, humans formed part of rich intertidal ecosystems alongside aurochs, red deer, roe deer, wild boar, and beaver, as well as the predators wolf and lynx. In the agriculture-based societies that followed, human footprints dominate the Neolithic period and later footprint beds, alongside a striking fall in large mammal species richness. This, the researchers say, could be the result of several drivers, including habitat shrinkage following sea level rise and the development of agricultural economies, as well as hunting pressures from a growing human population. The size and shape of one of the human footprints discovered suggest it belonged to a young man perhaps a teenager. It features a very distinct protrusion of a bunion on its little toe, which Dr Alison Burns, who spent six years undertaking the field research, said was 'a tailor's bunion'. She added: 'They were habitually barefoot, so when they sat down, the little toe would have rubbed on the ground.' In total, there are 31 footprint beds, which point to a period of dramatic change in the area's ecosystem. The beds record a key period in the natural history of Britain from Mesolithic to Medieval times (9,000 to 1,000 years ago). Pictured: A footprint bed from the Mesolithic about 8500 years ago covered in red deer hoof prints In total, there are 31 footprint beds, which point to a period of dramatic change in the area's ecosystem Pictured: Dr Alison Burns and Professor Jamie Woodward inspecting 8,500-year-old animal and human footprints in one of the Mesolithic mud beds at Formby In total, there are 31 footprint beds, which point to a period of dramatic change in the area's ecosystem The footprints above belonged to humans who walked the area around 5,000 years ago 'Up to about 6,000 years ago, there was a very diverse landscape with all those animals,' Professor Jamie Woodward, from the University of Manchester, told BBC News. 'Then after about 5,500 years ago, we see lots of human footprints, some deer and dogs, but not much else. 'So what we're seeing through the footprints is a landscape transforming with sea-level rise, and also with the arrival of agriculture that probably put a lot more pressure on this ecosystem.' He added: 'Assessing the threats to habitat and biodiversity posed by rising sea levels is a key research priority for our times we need to better understand these processes in both the past and the present. 'This research shows how sea level rise can transform coastal landscapes and degrade important ecosystems.' Dr Burns said: 'The Formby footprint beds form one of the world's largest known concentrations of prehistoric vertebrate tracks. Well-dated fossil records for this period are absent in the landscapes around the Irish Sea basin. 'This is the first time that such a faunal history and ecosystem has been reconstructed solely from footprint evidence.' Footsteps that were taken thousands or even million years ago have left tracks in many parts of Britain's coastline, which scientists have been able to find, study and turn into a deeper understanding of our ancient history. The new research is published in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution. A biotech firm wants to create human embryos from stem cells for the purpose of harvesting tissues to use in transplants after demonstrating success with mouse embryos that were kept alive in a mechanical womb for days until they developed beating hearts and flowing blood. The Israel-based firm, Renewal Bio, has a mission to make humanity younger and healthier with the use of stem cell technology that could potentially be used to treat infertility, genetic disorders or extend life in other ways. After achieving ground-breaking success with mouse embryos, the results of which were published Monday in the Journal Cell, stem cell biologist Jacob Hanna wants the company he co-founded to replicate the technology in humans. In the future, embryonic stem cells could be transferred into an older person to boost their immune system or used to regenerate ovarian cells although the company says its at an early stage and still learning about the technologys possible applications. The Israel-based firm, Renewal Bio, has a mission to make humanity younger and healthier with the use of stem cell technology that could potentially be used to treat infertility, genetic disorders or extend life in other ways. ABOVE: A human fetus with internal organs After achieving ground-breaking success with mouse embryos, the results of which were published Monday in the Journal Cell, stem cell biologist Jacob Hanna wants the company he co-founded to replicate the technology in humans. ABOVE: Bright field images of abnormally developed iCdx2 sEmbryos at day 8 of culture protocol and adequately developed iCdx2 sEmbryos shown as reference controls (right side) We view the embryo as the best 3D bio printer, Hanna tells MIT Technology Review. Its the best entity to make organs and proper tissue. Not everyone is on board with Renewal Bios work due to the ethical implications, which Hanna is aware of since his companys website has the most bare-bones information. Its absolutely not necessary, so why would you do it? Nicolas Rivron, a stem-cell scientist at the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology in Vienna, tells MIT Technology Review. He argues that scientists should only create the minimal embryonic structure necessary to yield cells of interest. Scientists are already able to grow certain simple tissues, such as cartilage or bone, but its much more challenging to grow complex ones. In the future, embryonic stem cells could be transferred into an older person to boost their immune system or used to regenerate ovarian cells although the company says its at an early stage and still learning about the technologys possible applications. ABOVE: A graphic representing how the mouse embryos were grown in the mechanical womb Its absolutely not necessary, so why would you do it? Nicolas Rivron, a stem-cell scientist at the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology in Vienna, tells MIT Technology Review. He argues that scientists should only create the minimal embryonic structure necessary to yield cells of interest. ABOVE: The mechanical womb used to grow mouse embryos The vision of the company is Can we use these organized embryo entities that have early organs to get cells that can be used for transplantation? We view it as perhaps a universal starting point, Hanna adds. Hanna, who previously demonstrated that he could grow natural mouse embryos outside of a female womb for several says in a mechanical womb, was able to grow look-alike embryos from stem cells in his new work. The embryos really look great, says Hanna. They are really, really similar to natural embryos. However, fewer than 1 in 100 attempts to mimic a mouse embryo was successful, according to MIT Technology Review, and the embryos that developed for the longest time still eventually had different abnormalities including heart problems. The scientist plans to use his own blood or skin cells, along with those of some volunteers, as a starting point for making synthetic human embryos. Despite the ethical considerations about the creation of life in a test tube, Hanna does not see them as viable. We are not trying to make human beings. That is not what we are trying to do. Hanna tells MIT Technology Review. To call a day-40 embryo a mini-me is just not true. Its important to note that a synthetic embryo could not survive beyond the jars of the companys mechanical womb. Since it doesnt have a placenta or umbilical cord thats connected to a mother, it would not survive if transplanted to a uterus. The ability to create a synthetic embryo from cellsno egg, no sperm, no uterusits really amazing, says Omri Amirav-Drory, who is acting as CEO of the company. We think it can be a massive, transformative platform technology that can be applied to both fertility and longevity. NASA is urging stargazers to enjoy 'evenings with giants' this month as the massive planets Jupiter and Saturn will be visible in the night sky for the next few weeks. Early in the evening, you'll find them to the southeast, moving slowly westward with the stars over the course of the night. 'They form a triangle with bright star Fomalhaut,' the US space agency explained on its website. 'When observing this trio, note how the planets shine with a steady light, while the star twinkles. This can be an easy way to know if what youre looking at is a planet or a star.' At the end of last month, astronomers revealed that Jupiter would appear at its biggest and brightest in decades, as it made its closest approach to Earth in 59 years. It is still some 367 million miles away from us, but not since October 1963 have stargazers had such a great opportunity to spot it in the night sky. Look up! NASA is urging stargazers to enjoy 'evenings with giants' this month as the massive planets Jupiter and Saturn will be visible in the night sky for the next few weeks. 'They form a triangle with bright star Fomalhaut,' the US space agency explained on its website Astronomers may also be able to spot the retrograde motion of Mars this month. The sky chart above shows the path of the Red Planet over several months in 2022 and 2023 as it enters, then exits, retrograde motion JUPITER: THE BASICS Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and the largest in our solar system. It is a massive ball of gas that is made mostly of hydrogen and helium, with some heavy elements. 'Jupiter's familiar stripes and swirls are actually cold, windy clouds of ammonia and water, floating in an atmosphere of hydrogen and helium,' said NASA. 'Jupiters iconic Great Red Spot is a giant storm bigger than Earth that has raged for hundreds of years.' The planet is twice as large as all of the other planet's combined, and the Great Red Spot alone is large enough to fit the entire Earth insidee. One spacecraft NASA's Juno orbiter is currently exploring this giant world. Facts and figures Distance from Sun: 750 million km Orbital period: 12 years Surface area: 61.42 billion km Radius: 69,911 km Mass: 1.898 10^27 kg (317.8 M) Length of day: 0d 9h 56m Moons: 53 with formal designations; innumerable additional moonlets Advertisement The gas giant came closest to Earth in almost 60 years on September 25, and 24 hours later reached opposition, meaning the planet appeared opposite the sun to those on Earth. The planet's closest approach to Earth hardly ever coincides with opposition, which NASA said meant that this year's views would be 'extraordinary'. The overlap of the two events, which will not take place again until 2139, means that Jupiter will appear brighter and larger in the sky for the next few weeks. When it comes to other celestial sights this month, Mars has been steadily working its way toward the east all year like it usually does, relative to the background stars. But at the end of October, the Red Planet halts this apparent motion, and then appears to reverse course. Over the next three months, from November to late January, the planet moves toward the west each night, then near the end of January it reverses direction again and continues its eastward journey. This is what is called the retrograde motion of Mars, NASA said. 'It happens about every two years, and it really threw early observers for a loop,' the US space agency wrote. 'That Mars appears to change its direction is an illusion caused by the motions of our planet in its orbit passing by the Red Planet in its orbit.' Earth and Mars are on roughly circular paths around the sun, like cars on a racetrack, but our planet Earth is on the inner, faster track. About every 26 months, we overtake Mars, which is moving slower in its orbit. During that period when we're passing Mars, and before we round the bend in our orbit to pull away from it, we see Mars in retrograde, appearing to change direction, even though it's still moving forward in its orbit. Amateur astronomers have been told to take note of how Mars' position changes with respect to Betelgeuse, Aldebaran and the Pleiades over the weeks. NASA added: 'You'll be witnessing what was once a source of intense curiosity for astronomers, but which we now know is just a sign of two planets passing in the night.' At the end of last month, astronomers revealed that Jupiter would appear at its biggest and brightest in decades, as it made its closest approach to Earth in 59 years Stargazing: Early in the evening, you'll find Jupiter and Saturn (shown) to the southeast of the sky, moving slowly westward with the stars over the course of the night The Orionid meteor shower is also active throughout October and November, and peaks on the night of October 20. It is a moderate shower, usually producing 10-20 meteors per hour at its peak, under clear, dark skies. The bad news is that this year the moon will be about 20 per cent full on the peak nights, so it will interfere a bit when it rises a couple of hours before dawn. However, it shouldn't completely spoil the view. The shower's name comes from the fact that you can trace the paths of its meteors back to an area on the sky near Orion. These meteors are fragments of dust left behind by Comet Halley in a trail that extends along its orbit. They tend to be bright and fast moving, and they often leave persistent trails that can glow in the sky for a few seconds after they streak by. No special equipment is needed to observe meteor showers. 'Just make sure you're warm enough, and viewing from a safe, dark spot away from bright lights. Then all you have to do is look up and enjoy the show,' the US space agency said. Apple CEO Tim Cook believes that most consumers can't even define what the metaverse is and was dismissive of the notion that they'd spend their entire lives inside a virtual world. 'I always think it's important that people understand what something is,' Cook told the Dutch publication Bright, according to a Google translation. 'And I'm not really sure the average person can tell you what the metaverse is.' The comments come despite the longstanding rumors that Apple is developing its own augmented or virtual reality hardware. Cook also expressed skepticism that people will want to spend extended periods of time in VR in the future. '[VR is] something you can really immerse yourself in. And that can be used in a good way.' Apple CEO Tim Cook believes that most consumers can't even define what the metaverse is. 'I always think it's important that people understand what something is,' Cook told the Dutch publication Bright, according to a Google translation. 'And I'm not really sure the average person can tell you what the metaverse is' Meta's Horizon Worlds is currently a test of its grand metaverse. Currently an app, it includes in-app purchases for creators to sell virtual items and effects within their digital worlds. ABOVE: Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg demonstrates an Oculus Rift VR headset 'But I dont think you want to live your whole life that way,' he told Bright. 'VR is for set periods, but not a way to communicate well.' Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has a very different take - having rebranded his entire company in a pivot towards helping to build a virtual world and already offering a number of different AR headsets that consumers can purchase. According to an internal company plan leaked to The Information, Meta is planning to release four new virtual reality headsets in the next two years - with one having an estimated price tag of $799. The California-based company has already spent a whopping $10 billion on its push into the metaverse - an amount that's more than five times what it paid to purchase the Oculus VR business in 2014. Zuckerberg (seen above with his first Horizon Worlds avatar) has rebranded his entire company in a pivot towards helping to build a virtual world and Meta offers a number of different AR headsets that consumers can purchase. According to an internal company plan leaked to The Information, Meta is planning to release four new virtual reality headsets in the next two years - with one having an estimated price tag of $799 What is the metaverse? The 'metaverse' is a set of virtual spaces where you can game, work and communicate with others who aren't in the same physical space as you. Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg has been a leading voice on the concept, which is seen as the future of the internet and would blur the lines between the physical and digital. 'You'll be able to hang out with friends, work, play, learn, shop, create and more,' Meta has said. 'It's not necessarily about spending more time online it's about making the time you do spend online more meaningful.' While Meta is leading the charge with the metaverse, it explained that it isn't a single product one company can build. 'Just like the internet, the metaverse exists whether Facebook is there or not,' it added. 'And it won't be built overnight. Many of these products will only be fully realized in the next 10-15 years.' Advertisement The metaverse push is happening at a time when analysts have noted that Meta's profits are decreasing as user interest in several of its core apps has also declined. In addition, the tech giant has faced an advertising downturn caused in part by Apple's privacy changes and massive competition for younger users from TikTok. Cook's comments are the latest from a string of tech CEOs to express skepticism about the metaverse. Snap CEO Evan Spiegel told the Guardian that the company avoids the term because it's 'pretty ambiguous and hypothetical' and that if you ask a room full of people to define it, all their definitions would be 'totally different.' David Limp, Amazon's head of devices, recently said that if he asked 'a few hundred people what they thought the metaverse was, we'd get 205 different answers' and that there's no 'common definition' of the term. The term metaverse originates in Neil Stevenson's science fiction novel Snow Crash but it's come to mean an immersive digital reality where people could live, shop, work and enjoy leisure time. 'You'll be able to hang out with friends, work, play, learn, shop, create and more,' Meta has said. 'It's not necessarily about spending more time online it's about making the time you do spend online more meaningful.' Meta's Horizon Worlds is currently a test of its grand metaverse. Currently an app, it includes in-app purchases for creators to sell virtual items and effects within their digital worlds. Critics, including people within the tech industry, believe there is a potential dark side to Silicon Valley's push towards the metaverse. 'It could be used to brainwash whole populations and basically put them under the control of the puppet master,' Brian Shuster, who has 17 years experience with the metaverse and also created his own digital world called Utherverse, told DailyMail.com in reference to the metaverse. 'I don't believe Zuck or Facebook will ever come to conclusion they can sacrifice money for the benefit and longevity of humans. The money comes when people are happy or angry, [so you choose] which path you [want to] go down?' he said. Raj Shah, technology analyst for Publicis Sapient, a digital consultancy firm, told the New York Times: 'It is time for a reality check on Metas position for the metaverse. The metaverse is a long way from being profitable or filling the gap in ad revenue after Apples policy change.' Zuckerberg was forced to change his Horizon Worlds avatar after being widely mocked for the first version, which was panned for amateurish graphics. The company has also said that many of the products ultimately used for the metaverse will take 10 to 15 years to develop. Bob Arum says Eddie Hearn is intentionally 'stalling' contract negotiations for Anthony Joshua's Battle of Britain clash with Tyson Fury as he 'doesn't want' the fight to take place. Negotiations over the highly-anticipated bout in December have been ongoing for the past month, with both sides blaming the other's camp for the hold-up. Arum says Hearn is concerned about how another loss could impact AJ's career and has subsequently stalled negotiations in the hope the proposed Battle of Britain will 'die'. Bob Arum says Eddie Hearn is purposefully 'stalling' contract negotiations for AJ vs Tyson Fury Speaking to TalkSPORT, Arum said: 'Eddie Hearn is stalling everything because he doesn't want the fight to happen. 'And why doesn't he want the fight to happen? Because Joshua's lost three out of his last five fights and he figures to lose again if he fights Tyson Fury and so Eddie is in effect being an impediment. 'I don't know of any issues, he sends a draft and then Frank and George reply and then we don't hear from Eddie for days, he's stalling until it dies of its own volition. 'I don't think Joshua is part of that. I think Joshua for whatever reason wants the fight to happen, I know Tyson Fury does. But, Eddie doesn't and so Eddie is doing whatever he can to prevent the fight from happening. Arum says Hearn (left) doesn't want Anthony Joshua (right) to fight against the Gypsy King Fury is looking to return to the ring for the first time since stopping Dillian Whyte in April 'From Eddie's standpoint, he believes he has a valuable asset in Joshua who has now lost three out of five fights and figures to lose again, which could make it four out of six and it would make him a lot less valuable after the event, so he's trying to prevent it from happening.' Arum is not the only one to suggest Hearn was blocking the fight. Fury's father, John, said the British promoter was trying to 'protect' his Golden Boy. He told Sportsmail: 'It's not going to happen this year I don't think. No, it's very doubtful. We'd have it tomorrow. We've been dogging AJ and his team like you won't believe for this fight, you know. You just don't want it. They just don't want it. 'I think Joshua's sort of like getting doubts about fighting the Gypsy King. You know they've had that contract now, for well over a month. Nothing's happened. But what they want, you see, is a to and fro for next two years or twelve months. 'Twelve months or two years back and forth, like they did with Deontay Wilder. We don't want that. Tyson's capped it off and put a deadline on it as he wants it signed up. He wants to get in camp, and then get it under way. Get the fight on and give the fans what they want. We aren't interested in back and fros.' Arum is not the only one to suggest Hearn was blocking the fight. Fury's father, John (pictured above), said the British promoter was trying to 'protect' his Golden Boy As it stands, Joshua and Fury are still negotiating over December's Battle of Britain bout. The two British promoters involved in finalising the deal - Hearn and Frank Warren - have said negotiations are heading in the right direction. However, the Gypsy King has been getting frustrated with how long it is taking to confirm the deal. As a result, he took to social media twice in four days to call the fight off. However, both parties are still negotiating behind closed doors. The forward is 'still adapting' to his new club, his manager insisted this week Jurgen Klopp urged Darwin Nunez to stay patient as he revealed he had a lengthy meeting with Liverpool's record signing to put his mind at ease. Nunez, an 85million summer arrival from Benfica, has not started a match since the Merseyside derby on September 3 and the last goal he scored was on the opening day at Fulham. The 22-year-old, one of the most wanted strikers in Europe during the summer window, could start against Rangers on Tuesday night and Klopp is adamant his best form will show eventually. Darwin Nunez has found it hard to adapt to life at Liverpool so far in his short time in England 'Darwin is good,' said Klopp. 'He's still adapting. New players come in and everybody talks about them and wants them to shine immediately; that happens from time to time and sometimes not. 'Only (on Sunday) we had a long talk with Pep Lijnders, because my Portuguese is still not better. We just told him we are really calm. It's important in our situation that he isn't looking like he is worrying. 'Of course the three-game suspension didn't help him, that's clear. But that's pretty much all. The team are not flying and that makes it not easy for a striker - especially not for a finisher.' Advertisement Church bells clang. Opening the shutters, I shield my eyes from the diamond light dancing off the Saronic Gulf. Chatter rises from the veranda below, where the Poseidonion's breakfasting guests chuckle as a superyacht tries, none-too-successfully, to dock. Spetses packs a punch in her nine square miles: authenticity, charm, natural beauty and relaxed sophistication. Magical: The island of Spetses offers 'authenticity, charm, natural beauty and relaxed sophistication', says Teresa Levonian Cole Spetses remains a favourite escape for fashionable Athenians as it was in 1914, when Sotirios Anargyros, inspired by the grandes dames of the Cote d'Azur, built the Poseidonion Grand Hotel (above) as a luxurious hunting retreat Despite proximity to the mainland it's just two hours from Piraeus by hydrofoil, or a three-hour drive from Athens and a hop over the sea by water taxi mass tourism is unknown here. Nicknamed Spezia (Spice) during Venetian rule because of its position on a major trade route, Spetses remains a favourite escape for fashionable Athenians as it was in 1914, when Sotirios Anargyros, inspired by the grandes dames of the Cote d'Azur, built the Poseidonion Grand Hotel as a luxurious hunting retreat. And it was Anargyros, a wealthy tobacco merchant, who saved the island from over-development. 'Spetses was known in ancient times as Pityoussa [pine-clad], but by the 20th century had become deforested because of its important shipbuilding industry,' says Petros Petrakopoulos, president of the Anargyros Foundation. 'So he purchased 45 per cent of the island and planted 100,000 Aleppo pines, stipulating the land could never be built on.' With proceeds from the hotel, Anargyros then founded an elite school modelled on Eton. The island was nicknamed Spezia (Spice) during Venetian rule because of its position on a major trade route In the absence of private cars in the main town, on Spetses horse-power means the traditional four-legged variety Spetses is just two hours from Piraeus, Athens, by hydrofoil, or a three-hour drive from Athens and a hop over the sea by water taxi The writer John Fowles taught here in the 1950s and, inspired by his experiences, wrote The Magus, a cult novel set on a magical island he calls Phraxos. 'Phraxos was beautiful,' his protagonist says. 'There was no other adjective; it was not just pretty, picturesque, charming it was simply and effortlessly beautiful. It took my breath away.' The hikes through the forests of Spetses are indeed breathtaking. In the late afternoon the sun is low and the pines and sage are at their most fragrant, while at the summit one can hear only birdsong. A water taxi takes you to some of the island's better-known beaches: Agia Paraskevi and Agioi Anargyri, for a lunch of meze and ouzo in the shade of its taverna, then Zogeria, famed for its lovely waters. We pass small churches, the beach, and rows of old cannon, once aimed at the pirates who plagued these shores. The warehouse has since found new life as the trendy bar-restaurant Mourayo This is the beach where The Lost Daughter was filmed during the pandemic, providing much-needed revenue for the island and blissful isolation for cast and crew, who included Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson and Peter Sarsgaard. No less enjoyable is the main town itself. In the absence of private cars, here horse-power means the traditional four-legged variety. In a carriage drawn by a handsome equine sporting blinkers, we hot-foot it along the seafront. People linger at cafes and, over delicious almond biscuits, watch the world go by. We pass small churches, the beach, and rows of old cannon, once aimed at the pirates who plagued these shores. The warehouse has since found new life as the trendy bar-restaurant Mourayo. At the deep inlet of the harbour, the 18th-century whitewashed mansions of sea captains, garlanded in brilliant bougainvillea, tower atop steep steps. Overlooking the scene is the fortified monastery of St Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, where Spetses' 'Freedom or Death' flag was hoisted in 1821 as a call to arms against the Ottomans. In the historic dockyards, Pantelis is perched on the gunwhale of a traditional fishing boat, rhythmically wielding a mallet. All around lie skeletons of other caiques, sawdust, and the delicious smell of pine and African teak. Pantelis climbs down, offers a calloused hand and leads me to a primitive workshop, where the most modern accoutrement is a single gas ring to prepare coffee. Zogeria is the beach where The Lost Daughter was filmed during the pandemic, providing 'much-needed revenue for the island and blissful isolation for cast and crew', who included Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson and Peter Sarsgaard Water taxis takes you to some of the island's better-known beaches, including Agia Paraskevi, pictured A shot of the fortified monastery of St Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, where Spetses' 'Freedom or Death' flag was hoisted in 1821 as a call to arms against the Ottomans Mass tourism is unknown in Spetses, says Teresa. Pictured above is an aerial shot of the monastery of St Nicholas This is the area where 18th-century merchant ships, source of the island's wealth, were built and later converted into battleships. Pantelis, who learnt the craft from his father, has been a shipwright for 25 years. Of the seven yards still operating here, his is one of only two still building boats from scratch. He says: 'These days, fishing boats are made of plastic, so we only get about one new commission a year. This will take two of us eight months to build.' Hiring one of these caiques from Captain Tzimanis ('the Wit') proves a highlight. A day of scorching sun, cooling breeze and glorious sloth is spent exploring deserted bays, swimming in turquoise waters, and picnicking on freshly harvested sea urchins and limpets. By the time we return, I'm hungry again. The old harbour, teeming with seafood restaurants, comes alive at night. I dine on a quieter side of town with septuagenarian artist Leda Papaconstantinou. On a terrace above the sea, over a bottle of crisp Assyrtiko and plates of ceviche, giant prawns and a delicious grouper baked in salt, I ask why she chose to live on Spetses. It was, on reflection, a rather silly question. Jordan Barrett has stepped out amid swirling rumours he's quietly split from his husband Fernando Casablancas. The Australian model, 25, was spotted sans wedding ring on Sunday as he departed a luxury hotel during Paris Fashion Week. Jordan was dressed in a long-sleeved black shirt teamed with baggy trousers and black shoes. Model Jordan Barrett (pictured) was spotted without his wedding ring as he left his hotel during Paris Fashion Week on Sunday - amid rumours he's split from his husband Fernando Casablancas Sporting a shaggy mullet hairstyle and leather backpack, Jordan was seen chatting to hotel concierge before he made his way into an awaiting hire car. The sighting comes amid speculation the Australian-born model quietly split with his fiance after they threw a lavish engagement party in Ibiza, Spain last year. Daily Mail Australia can reveal the pair are no longer following each other on social media and have both stopped wearing their engagement rings. Jordan was dressed in a long sleeve black shirt teamed with baggy pants and black shoes Sporting a shaggy mullet hairstyle and leather backpack, Jordan was seen chatting to hotel concierge before he made his way into an awaiting hire car A close friend claimed hinted that things may have ended on bad terms and the pair were 'no longer on talking term's. Their lavish engagement ceremony was attended by no more than 15 of Jordan's closet friends including models Kate Moss and Georgia May Jagger. 'It was very spontaneous, but his wedding planner was able to pull some strings to make sure it was very special since his Aussie family couldn't attend,' a source told Daily Mail Australia at the time. Jordan announced his engagement on Instagram on July 20, writing: 'I believe in love not the traditional kind, so I guess I just commit new chapter of my life. Also... did I also just get engaged on this date. Yes.' The sighting comes amid speculation the Australian-born model quietly split with his fiance Fernando after they threw a lavish engagement party in Ibiza, Spain last year. Both pictured Daily Mail Australia can reveal the pair are no longer following each other on social media and have both stopped wearing their engagement rings Jordan looked suave dressed in a black sleeveless silk top, which he wore unbuttoned paired with a matching pants. His beau Fernando meanwhile opted for a black mesh sleeveless top with matching pants. The handsome model completed his look wearing a gold head chain from Messika by Kate Moss. Outside of his modelling career, Fernando is known as the younger brother of The Strokes rocker Julian Casablancas. 'It was very spontaneous, but his wedding planner was able to pull some strings to make sure it was very special since his family couldn't attend,' a source told Daily Mail Australia The engagement was attended by no more than 15 of Jordan's closet friends including models Georgia May Jagger and Kate Moss (pictured right) How sweet! 'Champagne and cocktail drinks were flowing, it was very relaxed,' said a source Underneath, fans and followers shared their excitement over the big news and congratulated the male supermodel. 'Congratulations!! Love is such a wonderful ride. Two beautiful people who found each other,' one wrote. Another added: 'Congratulations man, great,' alongside a love heart and flame emoji. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Jordan and Fernando for comment. Matt Poole celebrated the NRL Grand Final in Sydney on Sunday - and his fiancee Tammy Hembrow was nowhere in sight. The couple, who recently welcomed their first child together, have been facing swirling split rumours for weeks, and Sunday's activities did little to quell the chatter. Former Ironman Matt, 34, raised eyebrows after fans noticed he chose to attend harbour cruise event, rather than attend an event in Queensland hosted by Tammy, 28, to promote her fitness app. Matt Poole, 34, (left) was spotted partying with his mates in Sydney, while his fiancee Tammy Hembrow, 28, (right) attended an event promoting her fitness app in Queensland on Sunday night Posting to Instagram, Matt shared a gallery of photos and videos showing him drinking beers with his mates ahead of watching the AFL Grand Final. In the images, Matt looked like he didn't have a care in the world as he laughed and clinked glasses with his pals. Tammy meanwhile spent Sunday night hosting her TammyFit app's re-launch party in Maroochydore, Queensland, surrounded by friends including influencer Michael Finch and Lily Brown, and her sisters. The couple, who recently welcomed their first child together, have been facing swirling split rumours for weeks, and Sunday's activities did little to quell the chatter Posting to Instagram, Matt shared a gallery of photos and videos showing him drinking beers with his mates ahead of watching the AFL Grand Final. Matt is pictured drinking with his mates on the cruise Tammy meanwhile spent Sunday night hosting her TammyFit app's re-launch party in Maroochydore, Queensland. She is pictured at the event Matt didn't attend the event, nor did he promote it on his Instagram page. Tammy showcased her eye-popping physique during the exclusive event, sporting a slinky silver mini dress that hugged her toned post-baby body. Matt was first rumoured to have split with Tammy last month, just three months after welcoming their daughter Posy in June. Matt was first rumoured to have split with Tammy last month, just three months after welcoming their daughter Posy in June Rumours of a break up were sparked after an Instagram account noticed Tammy has been wearing her engagement ring intermittently and hasn't shared a photo with the Ironman since August. 'Tammy hasn't been wearing her engagement ring since 31/7/22,' the account @influencer.updates.au shared via their Story. 'She & Matt still aren't living together and didn't post any content together [during their holiday] in Bali. I think they tried to work things out when Posy arrived, but looks like they haven't.' Tammy and Matt became engaged in November 2021, a year after they began dating Daily Mail Australia reached out to both Tammy and Matt for comment. Tammy and Matt began dating in 2020 and became engaged in November 2021. Just two weeks after revealing they were engaged, the couple announced they were also expecting their first child together. Tammy's also shares son Wolf, six, and daughter Saskia, five, with her former fiance Reece Hawkins. Amelia Gray Hamlin flaunted her edgy makeup look in a new TikTok video that she shared to her fans and followers earlier on Sunday. The 21-year-old model and influencer shared a clip that showed a behind the scenes glimpse showing herself getting prepped for the Balenciaga runway show amid Paris Fashion Week. The star-studded event, which was labeled The Mud Show, comprised of an apocalyptic setting where models walked on a muddy runway. Edgy look: Amelia Gray Hamlin, 21, showcased her edgy look before walking the runway for Balenciaga during Paris Fashion Week The talented beauty showcased an assortment of faux silver facial piercings that were adorned on her face. She had pointed piercings around her eyebrows along with two rectangular piercings directly above the bridge of her nose. Amelia had a few additional lip piercings to complete the edgy look for the runway show. The beauty's dark hair was parted in the middle, allowing her locks to be slicked back. The star had her phone camera directly in front of her, and then showed fans her look from a higher angle. Wow! The model and influencer showcased her unique look for the Balenciaga runway show in a video she uploaded on TikTok on Sunday Facial piercings: From a higher angle, the star showed off long, pointed piercings that were near her jawline During the short clip, a makeup artist was brushing on a touch of concealer before she changed into her shimmering runway look. When she arrived backstage, Amelia was wearing an all-black, monochromatic ensemble, comprising of a black sweater and jacket on top. Towards the end of the video, the model made a few funny faces towards the camera while zooming in and out. She appeared to be in high spirits and more than thrilled to have the opportunity to walk the runway for the luxury brand. Flaunting her look: Amelia showed her fans and followers a clip as she was prepped backstage before stepping onto the runway Theme: The Balenciaga Spring/Summer 2023 runway show was called, The Mud Show, and had a number of stars in attendance, such as Kylie Jenner The Balenciaga Spring/Summer 2023 runway event was called, The Mud Show, and contained a muddy runway along with a thick mud on the walls, according to Hypebeast. Demna Gvasalia, the current creative director for luxury brand, explained that the fashion show was, 'a metaphor for digging for truth and being down to earth,' reported Harper's Bazaar. 'I've decided to no longer explain my collections and verbalize my designs, but to express a state of mind,' and also stated, 'I hate boxes and I hate labels... Individualism in fashion is downgraded to pseudotrends dictated by a post in stories of some celebrity of the moment.' Kanye West, also known as Ye, opened the show, wearing a large utility vest and black pants. Other supermodels that walked the sludge-covered runway included Bella Hadid. In attendance to watch the one-of-a-kind show where stars such as Kylie Jenner, Khloe Kardashian, and Vogue editor, Anna Wintour. Big opportunity: Amelia shared a separate post on her main Instagram page how excited and grateful she was to walk the Balenciaga runway Opening: Kanye West, also known as Ye, opened the Balenciaga runway show during Paris Fashion Week Earlier on Sunday, Amelia also jumped onto her Instagram to share a message of how grateful she was to have the experience to walk the runway for Balenciaga during Paris Fashion Week. Her look for the fashion event consisted of form-fitting, short-sleeved glittering dress that fell down into the mud. 'BALENCIAGA MUDD BRIDE SS23 I HAVE NO WORDS. I BALLED MY EYES OUT DURING THIS WHOLE PROCESS. IM SO CONFUSED. IM SO GRATEFUL. IM SO IN SHOCK. I DONT KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON RIGHT NOW,' she typed in the caption, while also giving a shoutout the the brand and the creative director. Amelia explained she 'found out' she was cast for the show after, 'BEGGING TO SIT FRONT ROW TO WATCH THE BEAUTY.' The star is no stranger to showcasing her catwalk, and recently walked the runway for brands such as Tommy Hilfiger during New York Fashion Week last month in September. 'Mud Show': The runway for the Balenciaga Spring/Summer 2023 show was covered in wet mud Isobel Steele has reportedly quit Emmerdale after six years on the show, hoping to focus more on her budding music career than acting. The screen star, 21, has portrayed Liv Flaherty in the soap for six years - joining in January 2016, when she was just 15 years old. And in light of the exit, bosses are thought to be planning a dramatic plot twist for her character - which will see her killed off the show later this month. A new chapter? Emmerdale's Isobel Steele, 21, has reportedly quit the soap after six years to focus on her music career Isobel won Best Young Actor at the British Soap Awards in 2018 for her portrayal of Liv in Emmerdale - which saw her join the show's famous Dingle family after marrying character Vinny (Bradley Johnson). But according to The Sun, the actress is ready to branch out and 'try new things' as she makes a go of her music career. A source told the publication: 'Its been a big decision for Isobel but shes ready to try new things. Dramatic: And in light of the exit, bosses are thought to be planning a dramatic plot twist for her character Liv Flaherty- which will see her killed off the show later this month (pictured on the show this year) Budding star: The actress has portrayed Liv in the soap for six years - joining in January 2016, when she was just 15 years old (pictured on Emmerdale in 2016) 'She feels like shes done all she can at Emmerdale and wants to focus on her music career and make a real go of it.' Emmerdale have been bringing their A-game for this month's episodes to celebrate their 50 year anniversary - with the source adding the Isobel's exit will tie into the dramatic bout of episodes, noting that they have 'pulled out all the stops'. 'Viewers are going to be on the edge of their seats as it all plays out and Liv is killed off. Its a real heartbreaker, a death fans will remember for a long time to come,' they explained. MailOnline have contacted representatives for Emmerdale and Isobel Steele for comment. A source explained: ''She feels like shes done all she can at Emmerdale and wants to focus on her music career and make a real go of it' (Isobel pictured with co-star Bradley Johnson) Celebrating half a century on TV, Emmerdale are set to air an hour long special episode on Sunday, October 16. And bosses have revealed that a huge storm will hit the Dales, wreaking havoc on the Yorkshire village's residents as drama is set to unfold. And Isobel's character Liv could be at the centre of it and she deals with family drama, before the potential shock exit later in the month. Isobel, who sings and plays the piano and guitar, has posted videos to her Instagram page showcasing her musical talents. While she also appeared to regularly share covers to YouTube, between 2018 and 2020 - with her channel, dubbed Izzi Steele, not being posted on for two years. Married At First Sight bride Jessica Seracino was reportedly tossed out of a Melbourne hot spot after a scuffle with another patron on Sunday night. The 28-year-old, who appeared on the Nine reality show earlier this year, claims she was asked to leave popular venue Captain Baxter in St Kilda after she threw an ice block at another person. Seracino told Daily Mail Australia that while she shouldn't have thrown the ice block at the male patron, she was offended that the man called her a 'sl*t'. Married At First Sight bride Jessica Seracino, 28, (pictured) claims she was tossed out of a Melbourne hot spot after a scuffle with a male patron on Sunday night 'The guy thought I had attitude in my voice when I spoke to him and then sl*t-shamed me,' she explained. 'It was just a grown man getting b*tt-hurt about nothing. He swore at me but I can't react?' she asked. 'I threw an ice block and he told security and claimed that it made his eye swell, which is a load of sh*t.' Seracino told Daily Mail Australia that while she shouldn't have thrown the ice block at the male patron, she was offended that the man called her a 'sl*t' Jessica also raged about the incident on Instagram Stories, writing: 'So apparently I can be verbally abused and that is fine but I can't react to someone abusing me' Jessica also raged about the incident on Instagram Stories, writing: 'So apparently I can be verbally abused and that is fine but I can't react to someone abusing me.' 'AKA throwing an ice block after being called a sl*t because a guy thought I had attitude in my voice when I spoke to him?' she added, tagging the venue's Instagram page. After calling the venue out on social media, Jessica claims the venue reached out to apologise to her, but says it's too late for their apology. After calling the venue out on social media, Jessica claims the venue reached out to apologise to her, but says it's too late for their apology It comes after the controversial bride announced that she has joined adult content website, OnlyFans. For $11 a month, fans are able to access the reality TV star's exclusive content. Jessica appeared on this year's season of Married At First Sight as an intruder bride and was given a villainous portrayal. It comes after the controversial bride announced that she has joined adult content website, OnlyFans The Melbourne florist received plenty of criticism from her first appearance after she clashed with her 'husband' Daniel Holmes, 31, on their wedding day. Tensions boiled over after Jessica accused him of throwing a 'tantrum' over a joke she'd made about wearing trackpants to her 'real wedding' in the future. She raised eyebrows yet again at a dinner party when she admitted to calling Daniel a 'little b***h' for being 'too emotional'. On Sunday, Emmy-nominated actress Elle Fanning shared never-before-seen snaps of her Halloween costume as Britney Spears last year. The 24-year-old former child star flaunted her fabulous 5ft9in figure in a recreation of the 40-year-old pop star's sexy costume from the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards. Elle (born Mary) draped a fake snake around her neck and wore a green bra-top, tiny black shorts, and thigh-high boots selected by her Girl from Plainville costume designer Mirren Gordon-Crozier. 'Ghosts of Halloween past': On Sunday, Emmy-nominated actress Elle Fanning shared never-before-seen snaps of her Halloween costume as Britney Spears last year Fanning's longtime make-up artist Erin Ayanian Monroe gave her cheekbones plenty of shimmer, an excess of black eye-liner, and overall body tan. The Georgia-born blonde's Girl from Plainville hairstylist Jules Holdren gave her Britney-style locks for the spooky festivities. Elle - who boasts 7.3M Instagram/TikTok followers - captioned her slideshow: 'Ghosts of Halloween past.' Fanning received glowing comments from Paris Hilton and Chloe Grace Moretz, as well as her Girl from Plainville onscreen mother Cara Buono, Walker actor Keegan Allen, and Starcrawler frontwoman Arrow de Wilde. Fit: The 24-year-old former child star flaunted her fabulous 5ft9in figure in a recreation of the 40-year-old pop star's sexy costume from the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards Taut tummy: Elle (born Mary) draped a fake snake around her neck and wore a green bra-top, tiny black shorts, and thigh-high boots selected by her Girl from Plainville costume designer Mirren Gordon-Crozier Ready for her close-up: Fanning's longtime make-up artist Erin Ayanian Monroe gave her cheekbones plenty of shimmer, an excess of black eye-liner, and overall body tan Mirror selfie: The Georgia-born blonde's Girl from Plainville hairstylist Jules Holdren gave her Britney-style locks for the spooky festivities 'Iconic!' Elle received glowing comments from Paris Hilton and Chloe Grace Moretz, as well as her Girl from Plainville onscreen mother Cara Buono, Walker actor Keegan Allen, and Starcrawler frontwoman Arrow de Wilde The real deal: Spears made VMAs history performing I'm a Slave 4 U while holding a large albino python onstage the Metropolitan Opera House in Manhattan 21 years ago Spears made VMAs history performing I'm a Slave 4 U while holding a large albino python onstage the Metropolitan Opera House in Manhattan 21 years ago. And the two-time Golden Globe nominee wasn't alone as she was joined at the Halloween party by her Girl from Plainville onscreen love interest Colton Ryan. The 27-year-old Broadway thespian appeared to have a blast dressed up in a beehive wig and feathered frock as a Fem-bot from the Austin Powers movies. In Patrick Macmanus's eight-part limited series on Hulu, the acting pair depicted the real-life Michelle Carter and her suicidal 18-year-old boyfriend Conrad 'Coco' Roy III. What a drag! And Fanning wasn't alone as she was joined at the Halloween party by her Girl from Plainville onscreen love interest Colton Ryan (R) Flexible: The 27-year-old Broadway thespian appeared to have a blast dressed up in a beehive wig and feathered frock as a Fem-bot from the Austin Powers movies Serious stuff: In Patrick Macmanus's eight-part limited series on Hulu, the acting pair depicted the real-life Michelle Carter and her suicidal 18-year-old boyfriend Conrad 'Coco' Roy III Last month, Elle told Harper's Bazaar Australia that she was hard at work executive producing and reprising her role as Catherine the Great in season three of Hulu's The Great 'This is the longest I've played any character and she has meant so much to me as I figure out who I want to be in this world,' Fanning told the mag. But first, audiences can catch the Paco Rabanne brand ambassador and her big sister Dakota in Melanie Laurent's WWII drama The Nightingale. which is scheduled to hit US theaters December 23. The drama, based on Kristin Hannah's 2015 novel, centers on two sisters struggling to survive and resist the German occupation of France. 'This is the longest I've played any character': Last month, Elle told Harper's Bazaar Australia that she was hard at work executive producing and reprising her role as Catherine the Great in season three of Hulu's The Great Dunham in 2014 was honored by the group Point Foundation for her advocacy for the LGBTQ community A number of users questioned exactly why Dunham would be honored by the LGBTQ community Star, 36, took to Twitter on Sunday asking for her casket to be driven through NYC Pride parade A Lena Dunham tweet drew a hailstorm of criticism on Sunday, as the actress made a request on the social media site that rubbed people the wrong way. 'When I go, I want my casket to be driven through the NYC pride parade with a plaque that reads she wasnt for everyone, but she *was* for us- who can arrange?' the Girls star, 36, said Sunday. A number of users questioned exactly why Dunham would be honored by the LGBTQ community. The latest: A Lena Dunham tweet drew a hailstorm of criticism on Sunday, as the actress made a request on the social media site that rubbed people the wrong way. The entertainer, 36, was snapped in London last month 'And what have u ever done for the LGBTQ? Sis you aint no gay icon,' one user said, while another said, 'Pride is for us, not gratifying the egos of straight people who see us as accessories.' One user said, 'Its called gay pride not straight shame,' as another added, 'girl, no. we don't claim you like that.' Said one user: 'Ummmwere going to pass, but thanks for the offer?' Some people wondered why Dunham assumed the LGBTQ community would make her a centerpiece of the Pride parade. Dunham requested her casket be driven through the NYC Pride parade when she dies A number of users posted memes joking that the Sharp Stick director-actress had put her foot in her mouth, or was fishing for attention with the tweet A number of users questioned exactly why Dunham would be honored by the LGBTQ community 'You aren't actually for anyone except older millennials who keep getting kicked out of social spaces for saying slurs,' one user said, while another added, 'Counterpoint: we drive a photo of you through the jersey shore with a sign that says "were not sure who she is either."' A number of users posted memes joking that the Sharp Stick director-actress had put her foot in her mouth, or was fishing for attention with the tweet. Said one user: 'She died as she lived: in a ploy for attention that was as puzzling as it was desperate.' The Golden Globe winner in 2014 was awarded by the gay advocacy group Point Foundation with the Horizon Award, earmarked toward 'a young trailblazer who has taken a leadership role as an advocate' for the LGBTQ community, according to The Hollywood Reporter. One user posted an image of a person throwing a can on tomatoes in disapproval of the tweet Another user compared Dunham to actress Lea Michele, who has past been accused of being tone-deaf Others posted memes mocking Dunham's comment as cringeworthy and attention-seeking 'There is no one better at conveying the ambition of todays young adults to overcome obstacles and realize their great potential than Lena Dunham,' the organization's Jorge Valencia said at the time in a statement. 'Dunham uses intelligent humor and compassion to present an honest appraisal of something our Point Scholars know all too well: the struggle to be comfortable in your own skin.' At a gala where she received the award in April of 2014, the New York City native said that she was 'disappointed' that she is not gay, as her sister Grace came out at the age of 17. 'I have always felt a strong and emotional connection to members of the LGBTQ community,' she said. 'It was actually a huge disappointment for me when I came of age and realized that I was sexually attracted to men.' 'So when my sister came out, I thought, "Thank God, now someone in this family can truly represent my beliefs and passions."' Dunham has past been at the center of controversy over statements she has made over the years. In 2017, Dunham apologized to actress Aurora Perrineau for calling into question her allegations of sexual assault in a 2012 incident involving her Girls collaborator, writer Murray Miller. 'When someone I knew, someone I had loved as a brother, was accused, I did something inexcusable: I publicly spoke up in his defense,' she said. 'I didnt have the "insider information" I claimed but rather blind faith in a story that kept slipping and changing and revealed itself to mean nothing at all.' Two years earlier, in an interview with Time Out New York, she likened speaking out against the sexual misconduct allegations against Bill Cosby to the Holocaust. 'Its sort of like saying someones obsessed with the Holocaust,' she said. 'This is a huge issue, and it speaks to the way that we abuse power and the way that celebrity allows for injustice.' She subsequently posted an apology to Instagram, saying, 'Im already aware comparing Bill Cosby to the Holocaust wasnt my best analogy.' In 2016, she apologized after claiming NFL star Odell Beckham Jr. gave her a chilly vibe at the Met Gala earlier that year. 'The vibe was very much like, Do I want to f**k it? Is it wearing a yep, its wearing a tuxedo. Im going to go back to my cell phone,' she said. She has become well known for showing off her sultry physique in various snaps over the years. And on Sunday, Kristin Cavallari gave her 4.4 million Instagram followers a prime look at her smoking form with a shot that was shared to her Story. The 35-year-old reality television personality appeared to be making the most of her Mexican getaway as she rocked a tiny bikini while taking the photo. Hot stuff! Kristin Cavallari gave her 4.4 million Instagram followers a prime look at her smoking form with a shot that was shared to her Story on Sunday Cavallari wore a white bikini top that showcased her toned midsection and sculpted arms while taking the photo. The former cast member of The Hills also wore a matching bottom that conformed tightly to her curvy thighs. Her gorgeous blonde hair fell onto her shoulders and added a bit of extra color to her look for the vacation. Cavallari previously shared a shot from her Mexican getaway to her Instagram account on Saturday. Good times: Cavallari previously shared a shot from her Mexican getaway to her Instagram account on Saturday In the snap, the reality television personality was seen while spending time with friends, and she described the trip as a 'reset' in her post's caption. The jewelry designer wore the same white bikini top and donned a woven cap while taking the photo. She also added various elements of shine to her look for the day with several gold necklaces. Cavallari made a point of tagging the Instagram account of her personal brand, Uncommon James. Doing the most: Cavallari made a point of tagging the Instagram account of her personal brand, Uncommon James The reality television personality initially founded the company in 2017 and mainly focused on jewelry at the time, although it has since branched out into other fields. Cavallari has appeared on numerous promotional campaigns for her brand over the years. Last year, the reality television figure launched her own skincare line, Uncommon Beauty. The new line's offerings include various cleansers and creams, and the media personality has appeared in its promotional materials. Branching out: Last year, the reality television figure launched her own skincare line, Uncommon Beauty Cavallari spoke about working on Uncommon Beauty during an interview with Harper's Bazaar and expressed that she and her team started the line after they looked into the ingredients used in common skincare products. 'We quickly started going down a rabbit hole and I realized what I thought were good, clean products were actually not good for my skin at all.' The designer went on to express that she and her collaborators sought to simplify the list of ingredients that they would use in their offerings. 'The whole idea of Uncommon Beauty was to create really clean, effective products...we're stripping your routine down,' she said. Just after a decade time jump in last week's episode of House of the Dragon, tensions continue to rise in Sunday night's seventh episode. After disappearing for several episodes after being removed as Hand of the King, Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans) returns in the seventh of 10 House of the Dragon episodes, entitled Driftmark. The episode's title is the island south of Dragonstone that is the home of House Velaryron, as tensions rise between Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) and Alicent (Olivia Cooke), leading to a surprising attack from Alicent on Rhaenyra that has left House Targaryen more divided than ever and lead to a shocking wedding between Rhaenyra and her uncle Daemon (Matt Smith). Otto returns: After disappearing for several episodes after being removed as Hand of the King, Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans) returns in the seventh of 10 House of the Dragon episodes, entitled Driftmark Tensions: The episode's title is the island south of Dragonstone that is the home of House Velaryron, as tensions rise between Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) and Alicent (Olivia Cooke) Attack: The episode's title is the island south of Dragonstone that is the home of House Velaryron, as tensions rise between Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) and Alicent (Olivia Cooke), leading to a surprising attack from Alicent on Rhaenyra that has left House Targaryen more divided than ever and lead to a shocking wedding between Rhaenyra and her uncle Daemon (Matt Smith). The episode begins in Pentos, with a tomb being prepared, the body of Daemon's wife, Lady Laena, who had her dragon kill her after she could not bear her child. The Velaryon and Targaryen families are all present at the ceremony, when suddenly Prince Daemon (Matthew Smith) starts laughing for some reason. Her stone tomb is dropped into the sea, resting at the bottom, while we see dragons fly overhead the ceremony. Funeral: The episode begins in Pentos, with a tomb being prepared, the body of Daemon's wife, Lady Laena, who had her dragon kill her after she could not bear her child Laughing: The Velaryon and Targaryen families are all present at the ceremony, when suddenly Prince Daemon (Matthew Smith) starts laughing for some reason Tomb: Her stone tomb is dropped into the sea, resting at the bottom, while we see dragons fly overhead the ceremony Rhaenyra approaches her son Jacaerys (Leo Hart) and asks where his father, telling him their cousins could use a kind word from him but he doesn't want to. Criston (Fabien Frankel) tells Alicent that Larys (Matthew Needham) has been staring at her since they arrived, as we see Jace approach his cousins and offer a kind word as his mother suggested. Corlys (Steve Toussaint) approaches Lucerys (Harvey Sadler) and says he doesn't want to be the Lord of the Tides because that means that everyone will be dead. Rhaenyra and Jace: Rhaenyra approaches her son Jacaerys (Leo Hart) and asks where his father, telling him their cousins could use a kind word from him but he doesn't want to Criston: Criston (Fabien Frankel) tells Alicent that Larys (Matthew Needham) has been staring at her since they arrived, as we see Jace approach his cousins and offer a kind word as his mother suggested Dead: Corlys approaches Lucerys and says he doesn't want to be the Lord of the Tides because that means that everyone will be dead Viserys approaches Daemon, offering kind words, saying the gods can be cruel as Daemon says, 'It seems they've been especially cruel to you.' 'You should return with us to King's Landing. It's time you came home,' Viserys says, but Daemon says Pentos is his home. Viserys says there is a place on his court for him, if that is something that he needs, but Daemon says he needs nothing, and walks away. Cruel: Viserys approaches Daemon, offering kind words, saying the gods can be cruel as Daemon says, 'It seems they've been especially cruel to you' He sees Otto Hightower, who expresses his condolences, as Daemon tells him, 'No matter how fat the leech grows, it always wants for another meal.' Otto goes and gets Aegon and tells him to get to bed as night begins to fall. Rhaenys (Eve Best) and Corlys (Steve Toussaint) are talking in their chambers, as Rhaenys says her daughter wanted to come home and he wouldn't let her. Leech: He sees Otto Hightower, who expresses his condolences, as Daemon tells him, 'No matter how fat the leech grows, it always wants for another meal' Corlys: Rhaenys (Eve Best) and Corlys (Steve Toussaint) are talking in their chambers, as Rhaenys says her daughter wanted to come home and he wouldn't let her Corlys says the maesters in Pentos are just as well trained as those here, as Corlys again mentions that Rhaenys should have been Queen years ago. 'Mayhaps the gods have scorned us... For our insatiable pride,' Rhaenys says, as Corlys adds, 'The crown was yours until those fools at the Great Council plucked it from your head. Is it such a terrible thing for your husband to wish to win it back?' 'Tonight of all nights, let us lay aside this falsehood. It is not justice for your wife that drives you. It is your own ambition. 'Tis desire for the throne if not for yourself, then for the scions of your house. I gave up the idea of wearing a crown a generation ago. It is you, lord husband, who refuses to abandon this pursuit, even now, at the cost of our children,' she says. Trained: Corlys says the maesters in Pentos are just as well trained as those here, as Corlys again mentions that Rhaenys should have been Queen years ago Pride: 'Mayhaps the gods have scorned us... For our insatiable pride,' Rhaenys says, as Corlys adds, 'The crown was yours until those fools at the Great Council plucked it from your head. Is it such a terrible thing for your husband to wish to win it back?' Rhaenys says, 'I want Driftmark to pass through Laena's line to Baela. To true Velaryon blood. Declare it now, while all are gathered here, and we will say that is how we will honor Laena's memory.' He asks why she wants to, 'disinherit our son?' as she adds, 'He will be the King Consort. His son will one day sit the Iron Throne. ' 'Rhaenyra's children are not of your blood. But Laena's are. They are her legacy,' she says, but he adds, 'History does not remember blood. It remembers names.' Disinherit: He asks why she wants to, 'disinherit our son?' as she adds, 'He will be the King Consort. His son will one day sit the Iron Throne' Blood: 'Rhaenyra's children are not of your blood. But Laena's are. They are her legacy,' she says, but he adds, 'History does not remember blood. It remembers names' The episode cuts to Rhaenyra and Daemon walking along the beach, as she tells him, 'Laenor has been restless for years, but now, he will be useless. Or worse. I know better than anyone that our marriage is a farce. But I at least make the effort to maintain appearances.' He tells her, 'You have more to lose,' and she adds, 'Yes, well, that has been my lot since my father named me heir. We did try... To conceive a child. We performed our duty as best we could. But to no avail. There was no joy in it. I found that elsewhere. -It felt good to be desired.' He adds, 'I understand Ser Harwin was quite... Devoted to you,' and she says she should have forbid him from going to Harenhaal. Restless: The episode cuts to Rhaenyra and Daemon walking along the beach, as she tells him, 'Laenor has been restless for years, but now, he will be useless. Or worse. I know better than anyone that our marriage is a farce. But I at least make the effort to maintain appearances' Forbid: He adds, 'I understand Ser Harwin was quite... Devoted to you,' and she says she should have forbid him from going to Harenhaal Rhaenyra still clearly has feelings for her uncle Daemon, telling him, 'You abandoned me,' but he adds, 'I spared you. You were a child.' 'Yes. Yes, I was a child. And look at what my life became without you,' she tells him. She asks if he loved his late wife Laena and he says they were, 'happy enough,' as she starts to get close to Daemon again. Spared: Rhaenyra still clearly has feelings for her uncle Daemon, telling him, 'You abandoned me,' but he adds, 'I spared you. You were a child' Happy enough: She asks if he loved his late wife Laena and he says they were, 'happy enough,' as she starts to get close to Daemon again 'I am no longer a child,' she says as they kiss on the beach before moving to another more private place as they begin to disrobe and have sex. Alicent's son Aemond (Leo Ashton) is seen running along the beach, approaching the dragon Vhagar, which belonged to the late Laena, and waking it up. He complained in previous episodes that he wouldn't have a dragon, and was even pranked by Aegon, giving him a pet pig dressed as a dragon. Kiss: 'I am no longer a child,' she says as they kiss on the beach before moving to another more private place as they begin to disrobe and have sex Aemond: Alicent's son Aemond (Leo Ashton) is seen running along the beach, approaching the dragon Vhagar, which belonged to the late Laena, and waking it up The dragon starts to open his fiery mouth but Aemond calms him by stating, 'Dohaeras! Dohaeras, Vhagar! Lykiri! Lykiri!' in High Valyrian. He issues some more commands and the dragon takes off, as a screaming Aemond struggles to hang on as the dragon ascends into the sky... while his cousins watch. He starts maneuvering the dragon with ease, smiling and laughing atop the beast. Mouth: The dragon starts to open his fiery mouth but Aemond calms him by stating, 'Dohaeras! Dohaeras, Vhagar! Lykiri! Lykiri!' in High Valyrian Struggling: He issues some more commands and the dragon takes off, as a screaming Aemond struggles to hang on as the dragon ascends into the sky... while his cousins watch Laughing: He starts maneuvering the dragon with ease, smiling and laughing atop the beast Meanwhile, Baela (Bethay Antonia) wakes up Jace and tells him that, 'Someone stole Vhagar,' not knowing it was Aemond. Aemond returns and finds his cousins waiting for him as Baela is angry Aemond claimed the dragon that was hers to claim. 'Vhagar has a new rider now,' and Baela complains that was hers to claim and he says she should have claimed it then. Wake: Meanwhile, Baela (Bethay Antonia) wakes up Jace and tells him that, 'Someone stole Vhagar,' not knowing it was Aemond Return: Aemond returns and finds his cousins waiting for him as Baela is angry Aemond claimed the dragon that was hers to claim Claim: 'Vhagar has a new rider now,' and Baela complains that was hers to claim and he says she should have claimed it then 'Maybe your cousins can find you a pig to ride,' Aemond says as a fight breaks out after Aemond says Rhaenyra's sons are bastards. The fight continues until Aemond gets sliced over his eye when the knight Harrold Westerlig breaks it up. The whole family gathers as Viserys demands answers about what happened and the maester says Aemond's eye has been lost. Bastards: 'Maybe your cousins can find you a pig to ride,' Aemond says as a fight breaks out after Aemond says Rhaenyra's sons are bastards Sliced: The fight continues until Aemond gets sliced over his eye when the knight Harrold Westerlig breaks it up Rhaenyra's sons say that Aemond called them bastards, which is clearly a touchy subject that Viserys never wants broached. 'It was my sons who were attacked and forced to defend themselves. Vile insults were levied against them. The legitimacy of my sons' birth was put loudly to question,' Alicent says. They ask where Ser Laenor is as Alicent jokes he is probably entertaining young squires, as Viserys demands to know where Aemond heard those lies. Bastards: Rhaenyra's sons say that Aemond called them bastards, which is clearly a touchy subject that Viserys never wants broached Attacked: 'It was my sons who were attacked and forced to defend themselves. Vile insults were levied against them. The legitimacy of my sons' birth was put loudly to question,' Alicent says He says Aegon told him, and Viserys asks where he heard it and he says, 'Everyone knows. Just look at them.' Viserys says, 'This interminable infighting must cease! All of you! We are family! Now make your apologies and show good will to one another. Your father, your grandsire, your king demands it!' 'That is insufficient. Aemond has been damaged, permanently, My King. "Good will" cannot make him whole,' Alicent says. Everyone knows: He says Aegon told him, and Viserys asks where he heard it and he says, 'Everyone knows. Just look at them' Family: Viserys says, 'This interminable infighting must cease! All of you! We are family! Now make your apologies and show good will to one another. Your father, your grandsire, your king demands it!' He asks how she wants to be 'made whole' and she says, 'I shall have one of her son's eyes in return.' 'Do not... Allow your temper to guide your judgment,' Viserys says, as Alicent says, 'If the King will not seek justice, the Queen will. Ser Criston... Bring me the eye of Lucerys Velaryon.' 'He can choose which eye to keep, a privilege he did not grant my son,' Alicent says, as Rhaenyra says, 'You will do no such thing.' Whole: He asks how she wants to be 'made whole' and she says, 'I shall have one of her son's eyes in return' No such thing: 'He can choose which eye to keep, a privilege he did not grant my son,' Alicent says, as Rhaenyra says, 'You will do no such thing' 'And let it be known: Anyone whose tongue dares to question the birth of Princess Rhaenyra's sons should have it removed,' Viserys says as Rhaneyra thanks him. Alicent pulls out a dagger and decides to take it out on Rhaenyra, trying to attack her but she was stopped. Aemond says, 'Do not mourn me, Mother. It was a fair exchange. I may have lost an eye... But I gained a dragon.' Tongue: 'And let it be known: Anyone whose tongue dares to question the birth of Princess Rhaenyra's sons should have it removed,' Viserys says as Rhaneyra thanks him Attack: Alicent pulls out a dagger and decides to take it out on Rhaenyra, trying to attack her but she was stopped No mourn: Aemond says, 'Do not mourn me, Mother. It was a fair exchange. I may have lost an eye... But I gained a dragon Otto goes to see his daughter Alicent, who says she has, 'conducted myself in a manner... Unbefitting my station. Or any other. I lost composure... Assaulted the Princess. Already the word is spreading, the gossip speculating that I've gone mad. All true. I disgraced myself. And ensured my husband's favor will forever rest on her.' Otto says, 'I've never seen that side of you, my daughter. I even doubted its existence.' She says it was 'ugly' and she regrets it but he says, 'We play an ugly game. And now, for the first time, I see that you have the determination to win it.' Ugly game: She says it was 'ugly' and she regrets it but he says, 'We play an ugly game. And now, for the first time, I see that you have the determination to win it' Ugly: She says it was 'ugly' and she regrets it but he says, 'We play an ugly game. And now, for the first time, I see that you have the determination to win it' He says that Alicent sees Rhaenyra for what she is and, 'what the King's stubbornness has wrought.' He adds that Viserys will forgive her and he tells her to, 'go to him, be penitent, plead the injury to your son. Keep a grip on your passions. And I promise you, in time, you and I together will prevail. What that rogue Aemond has done in winning Vhagar to our side. The boy was right. It's worth a thousand times the price he paid.' The episode cuts to Rhaenyra, whose sons are being tended to by Maester Kelvyn who says a broken nose is the worst injury, when Laenor arrives. She sees: He says that Alicent sees Rhaenyra for what she is and, 'what the King's stubbornness has wrought' Forgive: He adds that Viserys will forgive her and he tells her to, 'go to him, be penitent, plead the injury to your son. Keep a grip on your passions. And I promise you, in time, you and I together will prevail. What that rogue Aemond has done in winning Vhagar to our side. The boy was right. It's worth a thousand times the price he paid' Laenor: The episode cuts to Rhaenyra, whose sons are being tended to by Maester Kelvyn who says a broken nose is the worst injury, when Laenor arrives 'I should've been there. Those should be our house words. I have fought dreadful enemies, but I could not defend my dear sister far from home and in agony,' he says. She tells him, 'Aemond called our sons bastards,' and he says, 'I have failed you, Rhaenyra. Our marriage... I tried. Our boys... I do love them. But I have not, mayhaps... Loved them enough. She adds that she, 'had hoped to bear your children. The few times we lay together. Things might've been different. I hate the gods for making me as they did. I do not. You are an honorable man with a good heart. It's a rare thing. We made an arrangement all those years ago to do our duty and... Yet explore happiness.' Should've: 'I should've been there. Those should be our house words. I have fought dreadful enemies, but I could not defend my dear sister far from home and in agony,' he says Honorably: She adds that she, 'had hoped to bear your children. The few times we lay together. Things might've been different. I hate the gods for making me as they did. I do not. You are an honorable man with a good heart. It's a rare thing. We made an arrangement all those years ago to do our duty and... Yet explore happiness' 'But there are times I think when these things cannot mutually exist. Ser Qarl will return soon to the fighting in the Stepstones. But I recommit myself to you. And to strengthening our house as we prepare you for your ascension. I will raise our sons to be princes of the realm. You deserve better than what I have been. You deserve a husband,' he tells her. Rhaenyra is speaking with Daemon, telling him, 'Fire is such strange power. Everything that House Targaryen possesses is owed to it. Yet it has cost us both what we loved. Perhaps the Velaryons knew the truth of it. The sea is the better ally. Fire is a prison. The sea offers an escape.' Meanwhile, Alicent talks with Larys Strong, who says what happened to her son was, 'A perversion of justice. The young prince... Defiled. An outrage. Indeed. If it's an eye you want to balance the scales, I am your servant.' Recommit: 'But there are times I think when these things cannot mutually exist. Ser Qarl will return soon to the fighting in the Stepstones. But I recommit myself to you. And to strengthening our house as we prepare you for your ascension. I will raise our sons to be princes of the realm. You deserve better than what I have been. You deserve a husband,' he tells her Escape: Rhaenyra is speaking with Daemon, telling him, 'Fire is such strange power. Everything that House Targaryen possesses is owed to it. Yet it has cost us both what we loved. Perhaps the Velaryons knew the truth of it. The sea is the better ally. Fire is a prison. The sea offers an escape' Alicent and Larys: Meanwhile, Alicent talks with Larys Strong, who says what happened to her son was, 'A perversion of justice. The young prince... Defiled. An outrage. Indeed. If it's an eye you want to balance the scales, I am your servant' She says, 'That will not be necessary. But your devotion has not gone unnoticed. These are dangerous times. The day will doubtless come when I require such a friend. With not only skill but discretion as well,' as he says, 'I shall await your call, my Queen.' Rhaenyra tells Daemon, 'I need you, Uncle,' but he says, 'We could not marry unless Laenor were dead,' and she says, 'I know.' Daemon finds Laenor's secret lover Ser Qarl (Arty Froushan), telling him, 'I've heard about your exploits in the Stepstones, Ser Qarl. Said to be a knight of remarkable skill.' Devotion: She says, 'That will not be necessary. But your devotion has not gone unnoticed. These are dangerous times. The day will doubtless come when I require such a friend. With not only skill but discretion as well,' as he says, 'I shall await your call, my Queen' Qarl: Daemon finds Laenor's secret lover Ser Qarl (Arty Froushan), telling him, 'I've heard about your exploits in the Stepstones, Ser Qarl. Said to be a knight of remarkable skill' He says he is common born and has no land but Daemon says, 'There are places across the Narrow Sea... Where it doesn't matter what a man's name is? Only how much gold he possesses.' Qarl asks what he wants him to do, and Daemon says, 'A quick death. One with witnesses.' Laenor finds Qarl and they start battling, while other knights look on as Daemon says in voice over that Rhaenyra should, 'grant him this kindness. Set him free. Quick death: Qarl asks what he wants him to do, and Daemon says, 'A quick death. One with witnesses' Battling: Laenor finds Qarl and they start battling, while other knights look on as Daemon says in voice over that Rhaenyra should, 'grant him this kindness. Set him free While they keep fighting and guards are alerted, Rhaenyra says, 'This will cost Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys their only remaining child. And the realm will whisper that I was somehow responsible,' though Daemon suggests, 'They will fear what else we might be capable of.' Corlys arrives and finds the charred remains of his only son, as a furious Corlys asks the knights how this could happen in his own house. The episode cuts to the wedding of Rhaenyra and Daemon as their children look on as they kiss. Charred: The charred remains of Laenor Velaryon... Furious: Corlys arrives and finds the charred remains of his only son, as a furious Corlys asks the knights how this could happen in his own house Wedding: The episode cuts to the wedding of Rhaenyra and Daemon as their children look on as they kiss The final shot of the episode finds Qarl waiting in a small boat while another hooded man runs towards the boat... revealed to be Laenor, who has cut off all his hair and rows the boat towards a waiting ship as the episode comes to an end. The preview for next week's episode shows Otto Hightower, now restored as Hand of the King, revealing, 'As Hand, I speak with the King's voice on this and all other matters.' Rhaenys says, 'Tomorrow, the Hightowers land their first blow,' while Rhaenyra adds, 'Those vipers rule in my father's name,' as Daemon says, 'To King's Landing then.' It is said that Corlys, a.k.a. The Sea Snake, 'has taken a grave wound in battle in the Stepstones. Who will take the Driftwood throne?' Viserys angrily says, 'The crown cannot stand strong if the House of the Dragon remains divided,' as another large time jump is teased, as the one-eyed Aemond is seen as an adult, greeting his cousins. Laenor lives: The final shot of the episode finds Qarl waiting in a small boat while another hooded man runs towards the boat... revealed to be Laenor, who has cut off all his hair and rows the boat towards a waiting ship as the episode comes to an end Return: The episode ended with Rhaenyra, fed up with life in King's Landing, returning to her family's ancestral home, Dragonstone Laenor: While Rhaenyra and Laenor are a mixed-race couple, all three of their children are white, as it's learned Harwin Strong (Ryan Corr) has been having a secret affair with Rhaenyra and has fathered their children Em Rusciano has shared raw details about she previously struggled to balance her high-profile career, parenthood and undiagnosed ADHD at the beginning of her career. Em, 43, who rose to fame on Australian Idol before working in TV, cabaret, stand-up comedy and podcasting told Sydney Morning Herald columnist Peter FitzSimons on Sunday, she would suffer existential crises at night. 'At times, I'd be crying myself to sleep at 2am questioning, 'What am I doing with my life? Should I just go and get a regular job? Are my kids OK?'' she confessed. Em Rusciano, 43, (pictured) has shared raw details about she previously struggled to balance her high-profile career, parenthood and undiagnosed ADHD at the beginning of her career EM, also spoke about her recent ADHD diagnosis, saying she felt a weight lift from her shoulders after realising she was 'wired differently' to others. 'I've spent my life trying to figure out how to be like everyone else and I exhausted myself pretending to be different versions of myself,' she said. 'And then when I found out that my brain was in fact wired a different way, it was a relief to realise it wasn't because I was a bad or inadequate person. I was just different.' Em who rose to fame on Australian Idol before working in TV, cabaret, stand-up comedy and podcasting told Sydney Morning Herald columnist Peter FitzSimons on Sunday, she would suffer existential crises at night 'At times, I'd be crying myself to sleep at 2am questioning, 'What am I doing with my life? Should I just go and get a regular job? Are my kids OK?'' she confessed Em said she wishes she'd been diagnosed earlier in life, but noted that if she had, her career may not have been as successful. It comes after Em spoke to the National Press Club where she called on the government to add ADHD to the NDIS. ADHD, also known as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, was recognised as a disability in 1992 under the Disability Discrimination Act, but is not included in the list of conditions covered by the NDIS. Em said she wishes she'd been diagnosed earlier in life, but noted that if she had, her career may not have been as successful On Monday, Em shared a video of herself complaining about how she struggles to cope when things don't go her way 'ADHD needs to be included in the NDIS as a primary disability,' she said during her speech in Canberra. Rusciano said one in 20 Australians has ADHD, but women often go undiagnosed because the symptoms are more noticeable in young boys. 'I associated it with hyperactive 10-year-old boys who should avoid red cordial, certainly not 42-year-old anxiety-ridden adult women who are chronically exhausted all of the time,' she said. Elsewhere in her speech at the National Press Club, Rusciano revealed that working in breakfast radio brought out the 'worst' of her then-undiagnosed ADHD 'I felt a deep sadness for that precocious, curious and chaotic 10-year-old girl who desperately wanted to get things right, the girl who tried hard all the time, and who just wanted to be like everyone else.' Elsewhere in her speech, Rusciano revealed that working in breakfast radio brought out the 'worst' of her then-undiagnosed ADHD. 'I know now that a person with rejection sensitivity dysphoria, low self-esteem, time blindness, someone who is very blunt, has a complete inability to regulate her emotions, and is hypersensitive to external stimuli should be nowhere near the breakfast radio environment,' she said. 'It brought out the very worst of my undiagnosed ADHD symptoms. It brought out the worst in me as a human.' Savage x Fenty CEO Rihanna named House of the Dragon star Olivia Cooke the newest brand ambassador for her four-year-old lingerie line. In the sexy new campaign - which dropped Saturday - the English 28-year-old emerged from a red curtain wearing a single-strapped fishnet dress over black bra and panties. Olivia showcased her slim 5ft5in figure and pert posterior wearing three different looks in the video. 'Serving bawdy... high in her tower': Savage x Fenty CEO Rihanna named House of the Dragon star Olivia Cooke the newest brand ambassador for her four-year-old lingerie line 'Serving bawdy... high in her tower,' the campaign read. 'Fit for a queen. Lace & leather looks just right for an iron throne. Cop that new new before it's gone.' Cooke was also seen modeling a neon-green bra and mini-skirt, featuring cut-outs at the hips, while posing seductively next to a marble column. The Slow Horses actress - who boasts 278K Instagram followers - wrote of her new scantily-clad gig: 'Would jump off a cliff for Rihanna so this felt like a better option.' Dropped Saturday! In the sexy new campaign, the English 28-year-old emerged from a red curtain wearing a single-strapped fishnet dress over black bra and panties 'It's her. She's the drama': Olivia showcased her slim 5ft5in figure and pert posterior wearing three different looks in the video The campaign read: 'Fit for a queen. Lace & leather looks just right for an iron throne. Cop that new new before it's gone.' 'Queen s***': Cooke was also seen modeling neon-green lingerie with a matching mini-skirt while posing seductively next to a marble column The Slow Horses actress - who boasts 278K Instagram followers - wrote of her new scantily-clad gig: 'Would jump off a cliff for Rihanna so this felt like a better option' Olivia's Savage x Fenty campaign came two days before she revealed that she suffered a 'full mental breakdown' at age 22 in 2016 while filming Thoroughbreds and Ready Player One back to back. 'It was bad, bad. Awful, actually,' Cooke told Observer Magazine. 'It was a big old lovely cocktail. Being homesick and not knowing it, having not stopped since I was 18, being on my own for large swathes of time.' The Soft Voice producer-star said she was 'very good at hiding' her depression, which was worsened by the double shock of Brexit and election of President Donald Trump. 'It was bad, bad. Awful, actually': Olivia's Savage x Fenty campaign came two days before she revealed that she suffered a 'full mental breakdown' at age 22 in 2016 while filming Thoroughbreds and Ready Player One (pictured) back to back Cooke told Observer Magazine: 'It was a big old lovely cocktail. Being homesick and not knowing it, having not stopped since I was 18, being on my own for large swathes of time' (pictured September 21) Annus horribilis: The Soft Voice producer-star said she was 'very good at hiding' her depression, which was worsened by the double shock of Brexit and election of President Donald Trump Olivia's mental health did not improve when she moved to Vancouver to film her role as Norman Bate's girlfriend Emma Decody on A&E's Bates Motel for five seasons spanning 20132017. 'I'm so grateful for that job, but I had a really tough time on it,' Cooke admitted. 'The way the schedule worked, we all had different storylines, so a lot of my time was spent in this apartment in Vancouver, working once every two weeks.' 'I had a really tough time on it': Olivia's mental health did not improve when she moved to Vancouver to film her role as Norman Bate's (R, Freddie Highmore) girlfriend Emma Decody on A&E's Bates Motel for five seasons spanning 20132017 Cooke said her 'incessant, persistent, anxious thoughts' diminished by 2019 and she now feels 'quite content, for the first time in years' The ex-girlfriend of Christopher Abbott said her 'incessant, persistent, anxious thoughts' diminished by 2019 and she now feels 'quite content, for the first time in years.' Olivia admitted she never watched Game of Thrones before being cast as Lady Alicent Hightower in George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal's $200M-budget prequel, House of Dragon. 'I resist things that are popular, but to my own detriment, because it's really f***ing good,' Cooke gushed. 'I resist things that are popular': The ex-girlfriend of Christopher Abbott admitted she never watched Game of Thrones before being cast as Lady Alicent Hightower (L) in George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal's $200M-budget prequel, House of Dragon 'Where is duty? Where is sacrifice?' Catch more of Cooke's ambitious character vying for the Iron Throne from the people-pleasing King Viserys I Targaryen (Paddy Considine) in the 10-episode series, which airs Sundays on HBO But the Sound of Metal alum - who's the daughter of a retired policeman - still does not believe she'll ever become a huge, massive celebrity like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. 'I've worked for a decade and I've done what I thought or what everyone told me would be the thing, and still managed to live very anonymously,' Olivia scoffed. Catch more of Cooke's ambitious character vying for the Iron Throne from the people-pleasing King Viserys I Targaryen (Paddy Considine) in the 10-episode series, which airs Sundays on HBO. The activist Sacheen Littlefeather has died at the age of 75, weeks after she received an apology from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for the organization's treatment of her at the 1973 Oscars when she declined an Academy award on Marlon Brando's behalf. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said that Littlefeather died at her home in Novato, California on Sunday, per her caretaker. The organization had held an event in Littlefeather's honor two weeks ago for an evening of 'conversation, healing and celebration.' Last picture: Activist Sacheen Littlefeather has died at the age of 75, weeks after she received an apology from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for the organization's treatment of her at the 1973 Oscars when she declined an Academy award on Marlon Brando's behalf. She is pictured here formally accepting the apology in LA on September 17 When Brando won best actor for The Godfather in 1973, Littlefeather, wearing buckskin dress and moccasins, took the stage, becoming the first Native American woman ever to do so at the Academy Awards. When she appeared on Brando's behalf in 1973, Littlefeather, then 26, said she was instructed by Brando not to touch the Oscar statuette; and by show producer Howard Koch to restrict her remarks to 60 seconds, under threat of arrest if she went over time, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Littlefeather said in her speech that '[Brando] very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award and the reasons for this being are the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry - excuse me - and on television in movie reruns, and also with recent happenings at Wounded Knee.' (The 1973 Oscars were held during the American Indian Movement's two-month occupation of Wounded Knee in South Dakota.) Some in the audience booed her. John Wayne, who was backstage at the time, was reportedly furious. In the years since, Littlefeather has said she's been mocked, discriminated against and personally attacked for her brief Academy Awards appearance. When Brando won best actor for The Godfather at the Academy Awards in 1973, Littlefeather took to the stage in his place to refuse the Oscar. She instead read out a letter from Brando in which he explained he turned down the honor to protest of the treatment of Native Americans Speaking on behalf of Brando (pictured in 1973), Littlefeather said the actor could not accept the award due to 'the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry' In making the announcement, the Academy Museum shared a letter sent June 18 to Littlefeather by David Rubin, academy president, about the iconic Oscar moment. Rubin called Littlefeather's speech 'a powerful statement that continues to remind us of the necessity of respect and the importance of human dignity.' 'The abuse you endured because of this statement was unwarranted and unjustified,' wrote Rubin. 'The emotional burden you have lived through and the cost to your own career in our industry are irreparable. 'For too long the courage you showed has been unacknowledged. For this, we offer both our deepest apologies and our sincere admiration.' Littlefeather told The Hollywood Reporter she 'was stunned' when the Academy reached out to her about making amends. 'I never thought I'd live to see the day I would be hearing this, experiencing this,' Littlefeather told the outlet. 'When I was at the podium in 1973, I stood there alone.' Some in the audience booed Littlefeather, while the late John Wayne, who was backstage at the time, was reportedly furious Brando had won the award for best actor for his performance in The Godfather Littlefeather, in her 2018 doc Sacheen: Breaking the Silence, said that she was sabotaged professionally in her show business career in the wake of the Oscars. 'I was blacklisted - or, you could say, "redlisted,"' Littlefeather said. 'Johnny Carson, Dick Cavett and others didn't want me on their shows the doors were closed tight, never to reopen.' Littlefeather eventually quit show business and got a heath degree with a minor in Native American medicine. She had penned a newspaper column for Oklahoma's Kiowa tribe, taught in Tucson and had worked alongside the late Mother Teresa at the outset of the AIDS crisis. Littlefeather, in a statement, said it is 'profoundly heartening to see how much has changed since I did not accept the Academy Award 50 years ago. 'Regarding the Academy's apology to me, we Indians are very patient people - its only been 50 years!' said Littlefeather. 'We need to keep our sense of humor about this at all times. It's our method of survival.' Littlefeather was seen backstage holding Brando's speech at the 1973 Oscars She beamed as she attended the event last month at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Littlefeather chat with Bird Runningwater, co-chair of the Academy's Indigenous Alliance, at the event Littlefeather previously asked that donations in her memory be made to the American Indian Child Resource Center of Oakland At the Academy Museum event in Los Angeles, Littlefeather sat for a conversation with producer Bird Runningwater, co-chair of the Academy's Indigenous Alliance. In a podcast earlier this year with Jacqueline Stewart, a film scholar and director of the Academy Museum, Littlefeather reflected on what compelled her to speak out in 1973. 'I felt that there should be Native people, Black people, Asian people, Chicano people - I felt there should be an inclusion of everyone,' said Littlefeather. 'A rainbow of people that should be involved in creating their own image.' Littlefeather's husband Charles Koshiway (Otoe/Sac&Fox), who she was with for more than 32 years, died this past November. A Catholic Requiem Mass is slated to be held at St. Rita Church in Fairfax, California; Littlefeather previously asked that donations in her memory be made to the American Indian Child Resource Center of Oakland. She has become well known for rocking eye-catching outfits on runways all over the world. And on Sunday evening, Kylie Jenner gave her 370 million fans a look at one of her outfits for Paris Fashion Week with a set of snaps that were shared to her Instagram account. The 25-year-old reality television personality also penned a short message in her post's caption that read: 'This look was special.' Scenic views: Kylie Jenner gave her 370 million fans a look at one of her outfits for Paris Fashion Week with a set of snaps that were shared to her Instagram account on Sunday evening Jenner wore a white caped dress that conformed tightly to her curvy physique while posing for the snaps. The entrepreneur made a point of showing off the wider portions of her outfit as she stretched out her arms during the photoshoot. The social media powerhouse added an extra bit of shine to her look with a pair of sparkling earrings. Her dark brunette locks were tied back into a tight bun and contrasted perfectly with the light tone of her clothing. Making an impression: Jenner wore a white caped dress that conformed tightly to her curvy physique while posing for the snaps Display: The entrepreneur made a point of showing off the wider portions of her outfit as she stretched out her arms during the photoshoot Jenner shared photos of several of her looks from Paris Fashion Week to the Instagram account of her beauty company, Kylie Cosmetics, this past Thursday. In three of the shots, the influencer donned a form-revealing partially sheer bodysuit that prominently showcased her physique. She also donned red lace portions that added elements of bright color to her outfit. The reality television personality also shared shots of herself wearing a low-cut blue velvet outfit during a show. Snapshots: Jenner shared photos of several of her looks from Paris Fashion Week to the Instagram account of her beauty company, Kylie Cosmetics, this past Thursday The entrepreneur also donned what appeared to be a heart-shaped brooch and styled her hair into an elaborate bun. Although she appeared to be making the most of her time in Paris, the media figure is still focused on the growth of Kylie Cosmetics. The entrepreneur spoke about working on the company's projects during an interview with Harper's Bazaar, where she expressed that she did not envision herself working in the beauty industry. Staying on track: Although she appeared to be making the most of her time in Paris, the media figure is still focused on the growth of Kylie Cosmetics 'I didn't think that this could really be my job. I always loved makeup, though,' she said. Jenner then remarked that she wanted to keep growing her company in the future. 'Hopefully we can expand and get a big infrastructure behind Kylie Cosmetics, and go worldwide and get more amazing people on the team to expand the business,' she said. Sebert said lyric was not written with the intent 'to be insensitive to anybody' and she apologized to the families of the victims Pebe Sebert, the songwriter and mother of musical artist Kesha, is taking responsibility for writing a line about notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer in her daughter's 2010 track Cannibal amid scrutiny on the line with the success of the Netflix mini-series Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. Sebert, 66, took to TikTok Sunday to clarify her authorship of the song. 'Some context on the lyric that's bothering people 12 years later,' she said in the caption. 'Not meant to shut anyone down, just more info.' The latest: Pebe Sebert, 66, the songwriter and mother of musical artist Kesha, is claiming credit for writing a line about notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer in her daughter's 2010 track Cannibal amid scrutiny on the line with the success of the Netflix mini-series Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story She said in the clip, 'The whole Jeffrey Dahmer lyric in Cannibal is a big controversy right now: I thought I'd just say a few things about it because that was my line that I wrote in Cannibal.' Sebert said that 'at the time' the song was written, 'Kesha and the other writer were too young to even know who Jeffrey Dahmer was.' Sebert went into detail about the creative process in which she used the name of the serial killer, who made national headlines for acts of cannibalism and necrophilia. 'Literally, the way it happened is I have this rhyming program called Master Writer for Songwriters,' she said. 'We were looking for a rhyme for "goner," at the very end of the widest rhymes was Jeffrey Dahmer. I was like, "Oh, my God, that's a perfect lyric."' Sebert explained that Kesha and another writer were too young to know who Dahmer was Sebert said that the lyric was not written with the intent 'to be insensitive to anybody whose families were involved in this and lost loved ones' Sebert said that the lyric was not written with the intent 'to be insensitive to anybody whose families were involved in this and lost loved ones.' The songwriter apologized to 'anyone who's lost a family member in this tragedy,' and that they 'certainly never meant to hurt anybody or make anybody feel bad.' She said that 'at the time, it was a song that we were writing about Kesha. It was a tongue-in-cheek funny song. It was not actually about cannibalism. It was just a title.' Sebert said that the controversy comes as the mini-series is 'kind of bringing attention back,' as the song has 'been out for more than 10 years, probably almost 12 years' and 'is not something that we've recently written.' She added: 'Jeffrey Dahmer was just part of the culture back then ... everybody talked about him for many years. What he'd done was so extreme, and so worse than anyone had ever done that anybody knew about.' The songwriter apologized to 'anyone who's lost a family member in this tragedy,' and that they 'certainly never meant to hurt anybody or make anybody feel bad' The infamous Milwaukee serial killer murdered 17 people between 1978 and 1991. In 1992, he was convicted of 16 murders he'd been charged with, and sentenced to 16 life sentences in prison. He was bludgeoned to death with a metal bar in November of 1994 by Christopher Scarver, another inmate at the Columbia Correctional Institution in Portage, Wisconsin. Both Kesha and Katy Perry and Kesha have dealt with backlash over lyrics referencing Dahmer following the release of the Netflix series, Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. Twitter users called out Cannibal and Perry's 2013 track Dark Horse for their mention of the notorious killer in a slew of tweets. Kesha sings in her track 'I'll pull a Jeffrey Dahmer' while Juicy J, who is featured in Dark Horse, says 'She eats your heart out like Jeffrey Dahmer.' 'It's so disrespectful to the victims families': Kesha and Katy Perry faced backlash over lyrics referencing serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer following the release of the hit Netflix series about the murderer 'It still upsets me when I hear the line in the song Dark Horse "She eats your heart out like Jeffrey Dahmer" and I always make my daughter turn the station. It's so disrespectful to the victims families. I hope people remember them while watching Netflix. Sorry for their losses,' tweeted one Twitter user. Another Twitter user called on Katy to apologize for the 'vile' and 'terrible' lyric. 'why isn't anyone calling out Katy Perry for allowing such a vile & terrible lyric to be included in one of her hit songs? Jeffrey was a notorious serial killer & Katy CHOSE to romanticize his criminal & inhumane actions. I actually feel sick to my stomach. She NEEDS to apologize.' Juicy J was also called out for singing the lyric as well. 'knowing the depths of what jeffrey dahmer did....juicy j wrong for what he said in that katy perry song,' posted another. Not happy: Twitter users expressed their outrage over the lyrics following the release of the Netflix series One Twitter user said they would be deleting Cannibal from their playlist. 'I just learned who Jeffrey Dahmer is and I knew his name was familiar because Kesha put his name in her lyrics for her song "Cannibal" I need to delete that song now. Why the heck do we give fandom to these sickos!? Of course Netflix makes a series about it. Murders make the (stack of dollars emoji),' posted the enraged fan. 'the casual mention of jeffrey dahmer in kesha's song cannibal has never really sunk in until now and what the f**k,' tweeted another. What!? There were also Twitter users who slammed those outraged by the years-old songs But there were also those slamming the Twitter users, suggesting they were only attacking the songs to remain 'relevant'. 'The song was trending 2 F**KING YEARS AGO and NO ONE noticed the lyrics. Now there's a documentary about Jeffrey Dahmer and out of sudden everyone is all upset and attacking Kesha. 90% of people don't even care they just wanna be involved,' one Twitter user pointed out. 'Really weird that y'al are so young the only reason you know who Jeffrey Dahmer is, is through this Netflix series and now you guys wanna be relevant by saying how offensive songs that came out 10 years ago. Sorry snowflakes, it's too late for that,' another tweeted. The monstrous murderer also committed necrophilia and cannibalism, and would dismember and preserve many of his victim's body parts. His horrific crimes are now being retold in a brand new 10-part Netflix show called Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, which premiered on September 21 and stars Evan Peters, Niecy Nash, Molly Ringwald, and Richard Jenkins. Dahmer, who became known as the Milwaukee Cannibal, wrecked havoc across the Wisconsin city from 1978 to 1991 Victoria Beckham reached out to son Brooklyn Beckham and daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz with a heartfelt message after they squashed feud rumours earlier this week with a reunion at her PFW show. The fashion designer, 48, took to Instagram on Sunday to share a picture of the couple alongside the message: 'I love you all so much', which Nicola went on to re-share. Victoria also uploaded an image of her parents Jackie and Anthony Adams with the couple, with the star seemingly delighted to have things back on track with her loved ones. Harmonious: Victoria Beckham reached out to son Brooklyn Beckham and daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz with a heartfelt message after they squashed feud rumours earlier this week It comes just days after Brooklyn and Nicola attended Victoria's debut Paris Fashion Week show on Friday where they finally put to bed speculation that they had fallen out with the Spice Girl. Putting on a further united front, Victoria's gushing post featured Nicola and Brooklyn - as well as other family members - in the audience at her fashion show. The couple beamed in matching black and denim outfits as they joined the rest of the Beckham clan, including David Beckham, at the event in the French capital. It comes after Victoria was seen chatting to her son Brooklyn outside her Paris Fashion Week show while Nicola socialised with Cruz's girlfriend Tana Holding as the family reunited following feud rumours. All together now: Victoria also uploaded an image of her parents Jackie and Anthony Adams with the couple, with the star seemingly delighted to have things back on track with her loved ones The couple attended and arrived half an hour early to show their support, with 'lots of hugs' going on when they were all reunited for the first time since this summer, said a source in the room. And video footage taken outside the event shows Victoria laughing with her son Brooklyn, while Nicola socialised with Cruz's girlfriend Tana Holding and Harper Seven. In the 30-second clip, Victoria looks glamorous in a figure-hugging black dress as she chats with Brooklyn, who is seen flashing a huge smile as he enjoys a drink. Together: The couple beamed in matching black and denim outfits as they joined the rest of the Beckham clan, including David Beckham, at the event in the French capital During their avid chat, a woman approaches Victoria but she points at her son and instead continues their conversation, with the woman then walking away. The mother and son then edge towards Nicola, who is facing the other way as she chats to Brooklyn's sister Harper, 11, and Cruz's model girlfriend Tana. Brooklyn is seen placing his hand on his wife's back and holding the waistband of her jeans as he continues speaking to his mother, while Nicola carries on her chat with Tana. Reunited: It comes after Victoria was seen chatting to her son Brooklyn outside her Paris Fashion Week show while Nicola socialised with Cruz's girlfriend Tana Holding as the family reunited following feud rumours The footage ends with Victoria standing next to Nicola as Brooklyn stands behind his wife with his arm around her waist. Brooklyn and Nicola - who arrived separate to the Beckhams - walked hand-in-hand as they stepped out at the event, with the heiress gazing lovingly into her husband's eyes. After entering Victoria's much-anticipated fashion show, the couple sat on the front row with Brooklyn's father David, 47, and his siblings - Harper, Romeo, 20, and Cruz, 17. Reunited: In the clip, Victoria avidly chatted to her son Brooklyn and the pair were seen laughing, while Nicola socialised with Cruz's girlfriend Tana Holding and Harper Seven Rift: Reports of a feud between have been rife, with Nicola adding fuel to the fire by claiming her mother-in-law 'blanked' her 'for days' during the design process of her wedding dress Victoria couldn't hold back her tears on Friday as she broke down while taking to the runway of her Paris Fashion Week debut show - reaching out to hug her husband David during the appearance. Afterwards, the family got together to celebrate with cocktails, as a source said: 'There were a lot of smiles and a lot of love in the room, it was a lovely family atmosphere.' Posing for a snap, Brooklyn and Nicola appeared in high spirits as they beamed while sitting alongside siblings Romeo and Harper, dad David and Vogue's Anna Wintour and Edward Enninful. Emerging: Victoria was pictured departing her Paris hotel on Saturday after putting on a defiant family display during her fashion show the previous day Victoria posted the snap to her Instagram as she gushed over the support, penning: 'It's Paris baby!! I'm so grateful for my family, @BritishVogue and @VogueMagazine for always supporting me on this journey xx VB'. Reposting the picture, Nicola penned: 'Congratulations @victoriabeckham on a beautiful show'. Appearing delighted to be reunited with his family, Brooklyn embraced them on the catwalk as he reached down to cuddle youngest sibling Harper - before bringing it in with David too. Standing beside her husband, Nicola also gave her father-in-law David a hug as they appeared united at the show. Proud: David shared a gushing tribute to his wife after her Paris Fashion Week debut on Friday 'My little fashion muse!': Victoria took to Instagram after the event to share a snap of her daughter Harper Seven, 11, at the show Adorable: She also shared a selfie of David and Harper as she commemorated the day 'There was a lot of love in the room': But Victoria was reunited with Brooklyn and his wife Nicola at her show and the couple attended and even came EARLY to wish her luck The family appeared overjoyed to welcome Brooklyn and Nicola to the show, despite a media storm surrounding the feud between Nicola and her mother-in-law Victoria. Reports of a feud between Victoria and Nicola have been rife for weeks, with Brooklyn's wife adding fuel to the fire in a Grazia interview. Claiming that she was 'blanked for days' by her mother-in-law during the design process of her wedding dress in the interview, the actress has reportedly enraged her in-laws by 'washing the family dirty linen in public'. Emotional: Fashion designer Victoria was overcome with emotion as she took to the catwalk, holding her head in her hands Initially, rumours of a rift began as Nicola did not wear a Victoria Beckham wedding dress - which she claimed during the interview was her original plan, before being told the designer's atelier could not make her a dress. In the bombshell Grazia interview, she revealed: 'We connected to start designing the dress, and then a few days went by and I didn't hear anything. Victoria called my mom and said her atelier couldn't make it.' Doting husband Brooklyn made his position clear amid the family feud, telling the publication that Nicola is his 'number one priority' and that they 'have each other's back 100 per cent'. But insiders have said Nicola is pushing a 'false narrative', leaving Victoria 'bemused' as to why she keeps 'stoking the rumours of a feud' rather than shutting them down. Too much: Victoria took to the runway at the end of the show, and appeared overcome with emotion during the appearance as she stopped at the front row to embrace family and friends Support system: Reaching into the audience as she stopped halfway down the catwalk, a teary Victoria clung on to David - as best pal Eva Longoria also reached out for a supportive cuddle And Nicola telling her side of the story has led to even more family drama, with David defending his wife Victoria as he had a rare confrontation with son Brooklyn. According to MailPlus writer Alison Boshoff, David told Brooklyn 'we don't do this in our family' as he 'lost his temper' with the budding chef. A source said: 'I don't think David has ever lost his temper with Brooklyn or had cause to talk to him harshly, but that has now finally happened. 'He had it out with him and told him: 'We don't do this in our family and you know that we don't do this in our family.' Together again: And appearing delighted to be reunited with his family, Brooklyn embraced them on the catwalk as he reached down to cuddle youngest sibling Harper - before bringing it in with David too At the show, Victoria's parents, Jackie and Tony, also took to the show to support their daughter and be reunited with their eldest grandson and his wife. Victoria was also delighted to have Gigi and Bella Hadid walking the catwalk regarding it as a 'real coup' - despite a potential awkwardness for Nicola, who used to date their brother Anwar Hadid. The model sisters looked flawless as they took to the runway of the show in VB designs, taking the catwalk by storm in the French capital. Family time: Appearing in high spirits, David, Brooklyn and Romeo laughed and joked amongst one another Long time coming: Brooklyn's wife Nicola joined in on the action as she and David shared a hug too Beaming: Nicola also smiled for some snaps inside the event as the family chatted on behind And Victoria herself took to the runway at the end of the show, appearing overcome with emotion during the appearance as she stopped at the front row to embrace family and friends. The designer held both hands to cover her face, bowing her head down as she struggled to hold it together. Reaching into the audience as she stopped halfway down the catwalk, a teary Victoria clung on to David - as best pal Eva Longoria also reached out for a supportive cuddle. Top models: The designer was absolutely delighted to have sisters Gigi and Bella Hadid walking the catwalk regarding it as a 'real coup' Rift: Rumours of a rift began as Nicola did not wear a Victoria Beckham wedding dress - which she claimed was her plan, before being told the designer's atelier could not make her one Woody Allen departed his hotel with his wife Soon-Yi Previn in Paris on Sunday. The director, 86, was seen in the French capital as filming began for his latest thriller, Wasp 22, after he confirmed he had 'no intention of retiring' upon its completion. He put on a smart display in a navy jumper with a pale purple shirt layered underneath, along with brown corduroy trousers. Emerging: Woody Allen, 86, looked smart in a navy jumper and brown trousers as he departed his hotel with wife Soon-Yi Previn, 51, in Paris on Sunday (pictured with daughter Bechet, 23) The filmmaker completed his look with brown trainers, along with a coordinating bucket hat and black glasses. He held hands with his daughter Bechet, 23, who he shares with Soon-Yi, 51. She cut a chic figure in a navy dress while carrying a grey scarf. Soon-Yi, who is the adopted daughter of Woody's ex-girlfriend Mia Farrow, looked trendy in a cream dress, while accessorising with a white-and-black necklace. Mia and Woody had been together since 1979, but that all changed 13 years later when Woody, then 55, and Soon-Yi, then 21, were caught having an affair. Age-defying: Soon-Yi, who is the adopted daughter of Woody's ex-girlfriend Mia Farrow, looked trendy in a cream dress, while accessorising with a white-and-black necklace Busy bee: The director, 86, was seen in the French capital as filming began for his latest thriller, Wasp 22, after he confirmed he had 'no intention of retiring' upon its completion Woody and Soon-Yi share two adopted daughters Bechet, 23, and Manzie, 22. The New York native is in the city as he begins work on his 50th film, which he compared to his late-career work Match Point. It comes as a representative for the director released a statement on Monday clarifying that Woody would not be retiring. In an interview with Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia he was quoted as saying, 'My idea, in principle, is not to make more movies and focus on writing.' Trendy: The filmmaker completed his look with a brown bucket hat and black glasses The statement read: 'Woody Allen never said he was retiring, nor did he say he was writing another novel. 'He said he was thinking about not making films as making films that go straight or very quickly to streaming platforms is not so enjoyable for him, as he is a great lover of the cinema experience.' It concluded: 'Currently, he has no intention of retiring and is very excited to be in Paris shooting his new movie, which will be the 50th.' The writer and director claimed the plot would be exciting, dramatic and also very sinister and described is as something similar to the thriller Match Point, which won the Goya award for Best European Film in 2006. In a live-streamed conversation on Instagram from June with actor Alec Baldwin who has appeared in several of his films the embattled writer and director alluded to his career pivot, saying 'the thrill is gone' due to a decline in the theatre-going experience. 'A lot of the thrill is gone, the director admitted. 'Now you do a movie, and you get a couple of weeks in a movie house, and then it goes to streaming or pay-per-view. It's not the same. It's not as enjoyable to me.' Coronation Street fans are in for an incredibly dramatic season if latest pictures from set are anything to go by. Star of the soap, Todd Boyce, 61, who plays killer Stephen Reid, was seen filming scenes for the hit show on Wednesday. Stephen gets mugged by thugs while on the job as a pizza delivery driver, before fleeing the scene and suffering a major crash. Coronation Street SPOILER: Corrie killer Stephen Reid was mugged by thugs before suffering a major crash in new pictures from set On set: Star of the soap, Todd Boyce, 61, who plays killer Stephen Reid, was seen filming scenes for the hit show on Wednesday Stephen looked enraged as the thugs took his pizza pack at the start of the scene. The villain fought off the thugs and grabbed his helmet and scooted off, before being left waiting for an ambulance after falling from his bike. Nearby was Stephen's girlfriend Elaine, played by Paula Wilcox, 72, who came close to spotting him as a delivery driver. Will he survive? Stephen gets mugged by thugs while on the job as a pizza delivery driver, before fleeing the scene and suffering a major crash Furious! Stephen looked enraged as the thugs took his pizza pack at the start of the scene Scuffle: The villain fought off the thugs and grabbed his helmet and scooted off Coming to blows: Stephen clashed with one of the thugs, who was dressed in a hooded jumper and jacket Star character: Todd has been playing the villain for years on and off from 1997 Actor Todd was seen filming the scenes with the help of a stuntman, it is believed. The thugs no doubt chose the wrong man to target, with Stephen having killed Leo Thompkins following their feud. Leo is played by Joe Frost. On the show last week, viewers were left in shock as they witnessed Leo fall to his death after a feud between him and Stephen ended in tragedy. As a scuffle followed on the factory gantry, Leo suffered a nasty blow to the head and was sent flying over the railings, falling into a commercial bin. Helping hand: Actor Todd was seen filming the scenes with the help of a stuntman, it is believed Messed with the wrong man: The thugs no doubt chose the wrong man to target, with Stephen having killed Leo Thompkins following their feud Run! The actors playing the thugs were seen quickly dashing off on set Shocked: On the show last week, viewers were left in shock as they witnessed Leo fall to his death after a feud between him and Stephen ended in tragedy Gruesome: As a scuffle followed on the factory gantry, Leo suffered a nasty blow to the head and was sent flying over the railings, falling into a commercial bin Drama: Stephen was then left horrified by the sight of Leo's lifeless body and a grisly cover-up followed which will include upcoming scenes of him burning his personal belongings Stephen was then left horrified by the sight of Leo's lifeless body and a grisly cover-up followed which will include upcoming scenes of him burning his personal belongings. Fleeing away from Weatherfield, Stephen started a fire in a field and threw Leo's passport into the blazing flames. Leo discovered that Stephen had been planning to defraud his mother Audrey Roberts to fix his financial problems. Close by: Nearby was Stephen's girlfriend Elaine, played by Paula Wilcox, 72, who came close to spotting him as a delivery driver during filming Drama for Stephen: Leo discovered that Stephen had been planning to defraud his mother Audrey Roberts to fix his financial problems Zooming around: Stephan was seen scooting around Manchester amid the attack Dangerous: Minutes before the crash, he took a tight turn Crash! Stephen was seen falling off his scooter Ouch! He tumbled off the bike and rolled onto the street Incident: Stephen threw his hands into the air as he fell and rolled He had finally worked out Stephen's sick plan for the hairdresser, and that his money woes were a lot worse than he thought. Actor Todd told Metro in a recent chat that he thinks Stephen will be Corrie's next big villain. He said: 'I think he's capable of just killing more people going on. It's like gambling, the further he's in, the further he'll go. 'An actor whose character had killed somebody said, ''once you do one, you kind of get a taste for it'', Todd joked. Villain! Actor Todd told Metro in a recent chat that he thinks Stephen will be Corrie's next big villain He said: 'I think he's capable of just killing more people going on. It's like gambling, the further he's in, the further he'll go' 'An actor whose character had killed somebody said, ''once you do one, you kind of get a taste for it'', Todd joked Change of shoes? Stephen went between a pair of black and red mules during the scene Advertisement The stars were out in force on Monday as Poppy Delevingne, Paris Jackson, Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss led the glamour at Stella McCartney's Paris Fashion Week runway show. The ladies donned stylish ensembles as they turned heads both on and off the runway as they joined fellow fashion lovers at Centre Pompidou in the French capital as they took in the British designer's Spring/Summer collection. Leading the way was Poppy, 36, who looked gorgeous flashed her toned midriff in a red bandeau top which she wore beneath a chic red patterned suit. Gorgeous: The stars were out in force on Monday as Poppy Delevingne, Paris Jackson, Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss led the glamour at Stella McCartney's Paris Fashion Week runway show The socialite teamed her blazer and trousers combo with barely-there gold sandals, while toting her essentials in a rust coloured handbag. The sister of model Cara Delevingne styled her blonde locks into soft waves, while highlighting her features with a radiant make-up palette. Meanwhile, Paris caught the eye in a striking floral outfit, flashing some skin in a semi-sheer crochet jumper dress. The 24-year-old model daughter of the late Michael Jackson wore a white bodysuit beneath the colourful number which featured tassels throughout and a bright yellow trim. Fashionista: The ladies donned stylish ensembles as they turned heads both on and off the runway as they joined fellow fashion lovers at Centre Pompidou in the French capital Stunner: Leading the way was Poppy, 36, who looked gorgeous flashed her toned midriff in a red bandeau top which she wore beneath a chic red patterned suit Style Queen: The socialite teamed her blazer and trousers combo with barely-there gold sandals, while toting her essentials in a rust coloured handbag What a trio! Karlie Kloss, Joan Smalls and Poppy Delevingne (L-R) posed for a glam snap together Hey there: President of NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER Alison Loehnis, Alexia Niedzielski and Poppy (L-R) smiled for the camera Paris matched her head-turning outfit with tan ankle boots and a burgundy handbag, finishing off her look with bold make-up and a dishevelled topknot. Meanwhile, Karlie Kloss stunned off the runway in a white knitted dress as she took in the show in Paris. The American model, 30, showcased her incredible figure in the form-fitting ribbed dress which she teamed with slouchy black boots and a pale yellow handbag with a gold chain. Flower power: Meanwhile, Paris caught the eye in a striking floral outfit, flashing some skin in a semi-sheer crochet jumper dress Quirky: The 24-year-old model daughter of the late Michael Jackson wore a white bodysuit beneath the colourful number which featured tassels throughout and a bright yellow trim Work it: Paris matched her head-turning outfit with tan ankle boots and a burgundy handbag, finishing off her look with bold make-up and a dishevelled topknot Having fun: Paris poked out her tongue as she larked around for the cameras Famous dads: Paris stood out in her bold look as she sat next to Bill Gates' daughter Phoebe Gates, who donned a black leather jacket Flaunt: Phoebe flashed the flesh in a tiny black bra which she wore beneath a leather jacket and teamed with white trousers Karlie styled her brunette locks into an elegant up 'do, finishing her look with gold earrings and a coordinating cuff. Over on the runway, Gigi looked sensational as she slipped into an all-black ensemble, donning a tailored black plunging blazer. She teamed it with a pair of low-rise baggy black trousers and added a gold belt wound around her hips and toted a black handbag. Fashionista: Meanwhile, Karlie Kloss stunned off the runway in a white knitted dress as she took in the show in Paris Centre of attention: Karlie drew a crowd as she posed up a storm at the show A bit of all white: Karlie looked fantastic in an asymmetric white dress which she teamed with black sunglasses Strike a pose: Karlie was every inch the stylish fashionista as she posed for several photos Style Queen: The American model, 30, showcased her incredible figure in the form-fitting ribbed dress which she teamed with slouchy black boots and a pale yellow handbag with a gold chain (pictured with Joan Smalls) The star also rocked a pair of tan sandals while she highlighted her natural beauty with barely-there make-up, leaving her blonde locks loose for the catwalk. Gigi later changed outfits as she strutted down the runway once again, donning vegan leather trousers with a matching khaki jacket. She elevated her height in a pair of brown high heels adorned with silver balls and toted a matching brown handbag in her hand. Sophisticated: Over on the runway, Gigi looked sensational as she slipped into an all-black ensemble, donning a tailored black plunging blazer Style: She teamed it with a pair of low-rise baggy black trousers and added a gold belt wound around her hips and toted a black handbag Walk this way: Gigi looked sensational as she led her fellow models down the multicoloured runway in Paris Stylish: Gigi later changed outfits as she strutted down the runway once again, donning vegan leather trousers with a matching khaki jacket Accessories: She elevated her height in a pair of brown high heels adorned with silver balls and toted a matching brown handbag in her hand Elsewhere, her younger sister Bella Hadid certainly turned heads when she walked the runway for Stella McCartney, going braless under a sheer nude unitard which was covered in embellishments. The stunner looked incredible as she modelled the impressive ensemble, wearing nothing but a nude thong underneath. She added several inches to her already impressive height with a pair of nude mesh high heels as she strutted down the runway. Eye-popping: Elsewhere, Bella Hadid certainly turned heads when she walked the runway for Stella McCartney, going braless under a sheer nude unitard which was covered in embellishments Revealing: The model oozed confidence as she strutted down the runway in her sexy sheer gold outfit Fancy footwear: She added several inches to her already impressive height with a pair of nude mesh high heels as she strutted down the runway Flawless: Her raven tresses were left down to cascade down her back and billow behind her, while she sported a fresh face of stunning makeup Toned: Bella later slipped into another incredible outfit, made up of a black cropped waistcoat, which perfectly displayed her flat stomach Daring: She wore it with a pair of black low-rise trousers, with cutouts on the side to flash an extra peek of skin and diamond embellishments for a dose of sparkle Her raven tresses were left down to cascade down her back and billow behind her, while she sported a fresh face of stunning makeup. Bella later slipped into another incredible outfit, made up of a black cropped waistcoat, which perfectly displayed her flat stomach. She wore it with a pair of black low-rise trousers, with cutouts on the side to flash an extra peek of skin and diamond embellishments for a dose of sparkle. Stunning: Meanwhile, Amber Valletta cut a chic figure at the show, donning a crisp white shirt which she teamed with quirky denim and black leather trousers Gorgeous: The model looked nothing short of amazing as she turned heads at the McCartney show Beauties: Gigi, Stella and Amber looked incredible as she posed backstage at the fashion show Posers: The model and actress swept her brunette locks into a sleek ponytail and looked simply glowing as she posed alongside Gigi and woman of the moment Stella McCartney Racy: Amber later took to the runway, going braless beneath a sleek black trouser suit She matched her accessories to her outfit, by carrying a small black clutch bag and donning black high heels. Meanwhile, Amber Valletta cut a chic figure at the show, donning a crisp white shirt which she teamed with quirky denim and black leather trousers. The model and actress swept her brunette locks into a sleek ponytail and looked simply glowing as she posed alongside Gigi and woman of the moment Stella McCartney. Family affair: Designer Stella was supported by her family at her Paris Fashion Week runway show on Monday, pictured with dad Paul and his wife Nancy Shevell Snapping away: Stella's sister Mary, 53, was working hard photographing the celeb-packed runway and front row during the show Looking good: Beatles legend Paul layered a hoodie under a smart blazer as he posed with Nancy, who was super chic in pink It was a family affair for Stella as the acclaimed designer, 51, debuted her latest collection with her father Paul, 80, and his wife Nancy Shevell, 62, while her sister Mary, 53, was working hard photographing the celeb-packed runway and front row. Proud dad Paul posed with Stella and his wife backstage at the show, with the trio showing off their shared sense of style. Beatles legend Paul layered a hoodie under a smart blazer as he posed with Nancy, who was super chic in pink. Showing his support: Paul pulled faces as he posed for photos and mingled with other guests outside the Centre Pompidou in Paris Always chic: Nancy teamed a sparkly pink cardigan with a blush coloured pencil skirt and camel coat. She accessorised with white leather boots and carried a covetable pink Stella bag Having her moment: The designer stuck to her signature black to let her designs do the talking, heading out onto the catwalk at the close of the show Proud dad: Paul cuddled up to Stella backstage at the show after sitting front tow We are family: The trio showed off their shared sense of style as they posed up a storm Nancy teamed a sparkly pink cardigan with a blush coloured pencil skirt and camel coat. The designer meanwhile stuck to her signature black to let her designs do the talking, heading out onto the catwalk at the close of the show. Meanwhile, Ellie Goulding cut a sophisticated figure in a black dress with a daring semi-sheer lace panel across the font. Show-stopping: Stella's show featured portrait prints and tones of yellows and browns throughout All black everything: Meanwhile, Ellie Goulding cut a sophisticated figure in a black dress with a daring semi-sheer lace panel across the font Classy: The singer teamed her dress with a smart black coat and black leather ankle boots, with Ellie looked glamorous as she struck a pose alongside Alexandra Richards at the event Staying warm: Tina Kunakey bundled up in a shaggy burgundy coat as she stepped out in the French capital Cosy: Tina, Gabrielle Caunesil Pozzoli and Carla Ginola (L-R) wrapped up warm in cosy coats as they attended the outdoor fashion show Feeling blue: Lena Mahfouf stood out from the crowd in a bright blue smock dress reamed with towering metallic platform heels What a look: Sarah Monteil showcased her sense of style in a burnt orange wool number Chic pair: Will Peltz and Kenya Kinski Jones looked stylish as they sat on white stools wearing black blazers The singer teamed her dress with a smart black coat and black leather ankle boots, with Ellie looked glamorous as she struck a pose at the event. Jaden Smith meanwhile showed off his unique sense of style as he donned a bizarre flower-shaped black bonnet. The son of Will Smith teamed the eye-catching headwear with a simple black suit and white trainers. Well that's different! Jaden Smith meanwhile showed off his unique sense of style as he donned a bizarre flower-shaped black bonnet Standing out from the crowd: The singer and actor was bound to garner attention with his striking head accessory Couple: NBA star Tony Parker and Alize Lim held hands as they arrived for Stella's show Showing off their styles: Hana Martin and Mia Regan (L-R) pulled out all the stops as they stepped out in Paris for Stella's show These boots were made for walking: Joan Smalls showed off her legs in a sensational pair of black cowboy boots Sizzling: Kyle De'Volle showed some skin in a metallic mesh number worn over a white cut-out body suit Androgynous: Tiffany Hsu cut a sharp figure in a plunging grey top and joggers teamed with a matching ongline grey coat and white pointed heels In Defence of Marxism is committed to safeguarding your privacy. At all times we aim to respect any personal data you share with us, or that we receive from other organisations, and keep it safe. This Privacy Policy (Policy) sets out our data collection and processing practices and your options regarding the ways in which your personal information is used. This Policy contains important information about your personal rights to privacy. Please read it carefully to understand how we use your personal data. We may update this Policy from time to time without notice to you, so please check it regularly. The provision of your personal data to us is voluntary. However, without providing us with your personal data, you will be unable to (as appropriate): contact us; subscribe to our mailing list; subscribe to any of our publications; or receive information about In Defence of Marxism. We collect information about you: (1) When you give it to us DIRECTLY You may give us your personal data in order to subscribe to a newsletter or publication, when you contact us by phone, email or post, when you sign a petition / statement, and/or when you donate money to us. (2) When you give it to us INDIRECTLY Your information will also be provided to us when you follow us or otherwise interact with on or via Twitter, when you like and/or join our page on Facebook or interact with us in other ways on or via Facebook. (3) When you give permission to OTHER ORGANISATIONS to share it or it is AVAILABLE PUBLICLY We may combine information you provide to us with information available from external publicly available sources. Depending on your privacy settings for social media services, we may also access information from those accounts or services. We use this information to gain a better understanding of you and to improve our communications and fundraising activities. (4) When you visit our WEBSITE We use cookies to identify you when you visit our website. Please refer to our Cookies Policy for details on the way our use of cookies affects your personal data. What information do we collect? We may collect, store and use the following kinds of personal data: (1) We will typically hold your name and contact details, including telephone number, location, and e-mail address. However, we may request other information where it is appropriate and relevant, for example: Your bank details or debit/credit card details (if making a donation). (2) any communication preferences you give; (3) information about your computer and about your visits to and use of this website including your IP address, geographical location, browser type, referral source, length of visit and number of page views; and/or (4) any other information shared with us as per clause 1. Do we process sensitive personal information? Applicable law recognises certain categories of personal information as sensitive and therefore requiring more protection, including political opinions and trade union membership. In limited cases, we may collect sensitive personal data about you. We would only collect sensitive personal data if there is a clear reason for doing so; and will only do so with your explicit consent. How and why will we use your personal data? Personal data, however provided to us, will be used for the purposes specified in this Policy or in relevant parts of the website. We may use your personal information to: (1) Enable you to subscribe to our hard copy publications; (2) Send you information about our work, campaigns, organisations and any other information, products or services that we provide (this will not be done without your consent); (3) Provide you with the services, products or information you have requested; (4) If you request, put you in touch with other supporters in your area (who have also provided such consent); (5) Handle the administration of any donation or other payment you make via credit/debit card, cheque, standing order or BACS transfer; (6) Collect payments from you and send statements and/or receipts to you; (7) Conduct research into the impact of our activity / campaigns; (8) Deal with enquiries and complaints made by you relating to the website or us in general; (9) Make petition submissions to third parties, where you have signed a petition and the third party is a target of the campaign to which the petition relates; and/or (10) Audit and/or administer our accounts. Supporter Analysis Google Analytics We may use some of your personal information to analyse our digital performance, for example to see how our website can be improved to help us achieve the purposes set out in section 9 below, to record how you are using our website or to assess the popularity of different articles / campaigns. For more information on how we use your personal information in relation to Google Analytics, please view our cookie policy by clicking this link cookies policy You can opt-out of the collection of information for such purposes here: http://www.aboutads.info/choices Communications, updates, fundraising Where you have provided appropriate consent, we will contact you by telephone and e-mail, with targeted communications to let you know about our events and/or activities that we consider may be of particular interest; about the work of In Defence of Marxism; and to ask for donations or other support. Donations and other payments All financial transactions carried out on our website are handled through either: PayPal (Europe) S.a r.l. (PayPal), a third party payment services provider. We recommend that you read PayPals privacy policy (available at https://www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/ua/privacy-full?locale.x=en_GB ) prior to effecting any transactions with us through PayPal; or GoCardless Ltd (GoCardless), a third party payment services provider. We recommend that you read GoCardlesss privacy policy (available at https://www.gocardless.com/legal/privacy) prior to effecting any transactions with us through GoCardless. We will provide your personal data to PayPal / GoCardless only to the extent necessary for the purposes of processing payments for transactions you enter into with us. We do not store your financial details. Childrens data We do not knowingly process data of any person under the age of 16. If we come to discover, or have reason to believe, that you are 15 and under and we are holding your personal information, we will delete that information within a reasonable period and withhold our services accordingly. Security of and access to your personal data We endeavour to ensure that there are appropriate and proportionate technical and organisational measures to prevent the loss, destruction, misuse, alteration, unauthorised disclosure or of access to your personal information. Your information is only accessible by appropriately trained staff and volunteers. We may also use agencies and/or suppliers to process data on our behalf. We may also merge or partner with other organisations and in so doing transfer and/or acquire personal data. Please note that some countries outside of the EEA have a lower standard of protection for personal data, including lower security requirements and fewer rights for individuals. We may transfer and/or store personal data collected from you to and/or at a destination outside the European Economic Area (EEA). Such personal data may be processed by agencies and/or suppliers operating outside the EEA. If we transfer and/or store your personal data outside the EEA we will take reasonable steps to ensure that the recipient implements appropriate measures to protect your personal data. Otherwise than as set out in this Privacy Policy, we will only ever share your data with your informed consent. Your rights Where we rely on your consent to use your personal information, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time. This includes the right to ask us to stop using your personal information for direct marketing purposes or to be unsubscribed from our email list at any time. You also have the following rights: (1) Right to be informed you have the right to be told how your personal information will be used. This Policy and any other policies and statements used on our website and in our communications are intended to provide you with a clear and transparent description of how your personal information may be used. (2) Right of access you can write to us to ask for confirmation of what information we hold on you and to request a copy of that information. Provided we are satisfied that you are entitled to see the information requested and we have successfully confirmed your identity, we have 30 days to comply. (3) Right of erasure as from 25 May 2018, you can ask us for your personal information to be deleted from our records. (4) Right of rectification if you believe our records of your personal information are inaccurate, you have the right to ask for those records to be updated. (5) Right to restrict processing you have the right to ask for processing of your personal data to be restricted if there is disagreement about its accuracy or legitimate usage. (6) Right to data portability to the extent required by the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) where we are processing your personal information (i) under your consent, (ii) because such processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which you are party or to take steps at your request prior to entering into a contact or (iii) by automated means, you may ask us to provide it to you or another service provider in a machine-readable format. To exercise these rights, please send a description of the personal information in question using the contact details in section 15 below. You can also unsubscribe from our email list by sending a blank email to news-unsubscribe@marxist.com Where we consider that the information with which you have provided us does not enable us to identify the personal information in question, we reserve the right to ask for (i) personal identification and/or (ii) further information. Lawful processing We are required to have one or more lawful grounds to process your personal information. Only 4 of these are relevant to us: Personal information is processed on the basis of a persons consent Personal information is processed on the basis of a contractual relationship Personal information is processed on the basis of legal obligations Personal information is processed on the basis of legitimate interests (1) Consent We will ask for your consent to use your information to send you electronic communications such as newsletters and and fundraising emails, and if you ever share sensitive personal information with us. (2) Contractual relationships Most of our interactions with supporters are voluntary and not contractual. However, sometimes it will be necessary to process personal information so that we can enter contractual relationships with people. For example, if you subscribe to one of our publications, or purchase merchandise online. (3) Legal obligations Sometimes we will be obliged to process your personal information due to legal obligations which are binding on us. We will only ever do so when strictly necessary. (4) Legitimate interests Applicable law allows personal information to be collected and used if it is reasonably necessary for our legitimate activities (as long as its use is fair, balanced and does not unduly impact individuals rights). We will rely on this ground to process your personal data when it is not practical or appropriate to ask for consent. Achieving our purposes These include (but are not limited to) promoting socialist policies Governance Internal and external audit for financial or regulatory compliance purposes Statutory reporting Publicity and income generation Conventional direct marketing and other forms of marketing, publicity or advertisement Unsolicited messages, including campaigns, newsletters, and fundraising appeals Analysis, targeting and segmentation to develop and promote or strategy and improve communication efficiency Personalisation used to tailor and enhance your experience of our communications Operational Management Maintenance of suppression files Processing for historical, scientific or statistical purpose Purely administrative purposes Responding to enquiries Delivery of requested products or information Communications designed to administer existing services including subscriptions, administration of petitions and financial transactions Thank you communications and receipts Maintaining a supporter database and suppression lists Financial Management and control Processing financial transactions and maintaining financial controls Prevention of fraud, misuse of services, or money laundering Enforcement of legal claims Reporting criminal acts and compliance with law enforcement agencies When we use your personal information, we will consider if it is fair and balanced to do so and if it is within your reasonable expectations. We will balance your rights and our legitimate interests to ensure that we use your personal information in ways that are not unduly intrusive or unfair in other ways. Data retention The length of time each category of data will be retained will vary depending on how long we need to process it for, the reason it was collected, and in line with any statutory requirements. After this point the data will either be deleted, or we may retain a secure anonymised record for research and analytical purposes. In the event that you ask us to stop sending you direct marketing/fundraising/other electronic communications, we will keep your name on our internal suppression list to ensure that you are not contacted again. Policy amendments We keep this Privacy Policy under regular review and reserve the right to update from time-to-time by posting an updated version on our website, not least because of changes in applicable law. We recommend that you check this Privacy Policy occasionally to ensure you remain happy with it. We may also notify you of changes to our privacy policy by email. Third party websites We link our website directly to other sites. This Privacy Policy does not cover external websites and we are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those sites. We encourage you to read the privacy policies of any external websites you visit via links on our website. Updating information You can check the personal data we hold about you, and ask us to update it where necessary, by emailing us at webmaster@marxist.com Contact We are not required by law to have a Data Protection Officer however we have a Data Protection Manager. Please let us know if you have any queries or concerns whatsoever about the way in which your data is being processed by emailing the Data Protection Manager at webmaster@marxist.com Carol Vorderman has revealed her determination to stay fit and healthy as she approaches her 62nd birthday. The TV star shared an Instagram video from her new gym on Sunday as she explained her personal trainer was putting her through her paces. On Monday morning Carol was getting stuck into her new workout regime, flaunting her impressive abs in a crop top as she demonstrated kettlebell sequences in another video. Working hard: Carol Vorderman has revealed her determination to stay fit and healthy as she approaches her 62nd birthday, demonstrating her new workout plan Revealing she had joined The Gymset near her home in Clifton, Bristol, Carol gave her Insta followers a tour as she explained: 'I'm DETERMINED to stay fit and active and healthy as hell as I'm knocking on 62 years old.' 'Been a gym goer since they started opening for women in the mid 90s. Now with my busy life being everywhere.....London, Bristol, Cardiff, West Wales, Manchester, abroad.....I want someone who will tell me what to do and when, every day.' She pointed out that while she is disciplined in her work outs, her busy schedule means she struggles to stick to a routine. New gym: The TV star shared an Instagram video from her new gym on Sunday as she explained her personal trainer was putting her through her paces 'I'm really good at taking instruction, very disciplined but if I have to make it up as I go along every day, then I only do half of the gym work. It's just that emails and all sorts to do with my businesses start to kick in and work takes over the day. 'So Grant @g.p_fit_ and I started this new system this morning. He's in charge.' 'First gentle session today, so he knows my form and so on. I like to have good form in the gym to get the best out of every set.' 'I've never been able to do a handstand or a full press up so we're working on upper body a lot for strength.' Skills: On Monday morning Carol was getting stuck into her new workout regime, flaunting her impressive abs in a crop top as she demonstrated kettlebell sequences Moves: The blonde looked incredible in a camouflage-print crop top and leggings as she demonstrated some dance moves before launching into her workout 'I fully intend to be in this form when I'm knocking 80, and going to have a GREAT life between now and then full of laughing and mischief and adventures.' And on Monday morning Carol proved she was sticking to her word, showing off her impressive skills with a set of kettlebells before her squats. The blonde looked incredible in a camouflage-print crop top and leggings as she demonstrated some dance moves before launching into her workout. 'It was a heavy 2 hour workout morning....slow and steady with this sesh..... lols,' she captioned the video. Cate Blanchett wowed onlookers as she arrived at the Good Morning America studios in New York City on Monday. The actress, 53, put on a dazzling display in a sparkling silver jumpsuit with black stripes, while wrapping up with a black coat. Putting her best fashion foot forward in leather boots, she threw a coordinating handbag over her shoulder while framing her face with oversized sunglasses. Emerging: Cate Blanchett put on a dazzling display in a sparkling silver jumpsuit with black stripes as she arrived at the Good Morning America studios in New York City on Monday The Australian star shot a beaming smile towards onlookers while waving and wore her blonde tresses in a a glossy middle parting. She strolled through Times Square with one hand in her pocket as she caused passers-by to gawk and point. Her latest film, Tar, is scheduled to open in theaters Friday, October 7, after debuting at the Venice International Film Festival in September. Trendy: Putting her best fashion foot forward in leather boots, she threw a coordinating handbag over her shoulder while framing her face with oversized sunglasses Hello! The Australian star shot a beaming smile towards onlookers while waving and wore her blonde tresses in a a glossy middle parting She took on the role in the psychological drama of a woman who is a renowned orchestra conductor, but behind the music she is as corrupt as she is talented. The nearly three hour drama received a six minute standing ovation from the audience after its debut. Cate has received rave reviews for her performance in the project written especially for her by director Todd Field. Variety predicted Cate's performance 'will likely be one of the most toasted performances of Oscar season,' and 'all but guarantee Blanchett will land her eighth Oscar nomination for acting.' The Don't Look Up star and her husband, Andrew Upton, have four children together; Dashiell, 20, Roman, 18, Ignatius, 14 and Edith, seven. The couple call England home and according to Kent Live News, living in a large manor house in Kent in southeast England. Kelly Ripa's husband Mark Consuelos shared a sweet tribute to his wife on her 52nd birthday after a very eventful year. The 51-year-old Riverdale actor took to his Instagram on Sunday to post an intimate gallery of snaps which he dedicated to his 'sexy' partner on her special day. Mark captioned the post to his 2.1million followers: 'Happy Birthday Sexy!!! What a year of accomplishments. So proud of you. [three red heart emojis]' 'Happy Bithday Sexy!!!': Kelly Ripa's husband Mark Consuelos shared a sweet tribute to his wife on her 52nd birthday after a very eventful year The primary photo featured Kelly with her arms laid across piano keys while sitting backward on a bench wearing a see-through skirt and a letterman's jacket. There was also a cute snap of the couple - who have been married for 26 years - kissing on the beach on one of their island getaways. He also included an adorable photo of them cuddling on a bench as they watched the sunset over the the ocean. Aww: The 51-year-old Riverdale actor took to his Instagram on Sunday to post an intimate gallery of snaps including one of them kissing on the beach on one of their island getaways Vibes: He also included an adorable photo of them cuddling on a bench as they watched the sunset over the the ocean A sight to behold: As if that wasn't already enough cuteness, he also shared a snap of them enjoying a picnic over what looked like Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. As if that wasn't already enough cuteness, he also shared a snap of them enjoying a picnic over what looked like Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. This comes just days after the revelation that Mark had been inebriated when he once revealed Kelly's third pregnancy just moments after she had told him the good news during the first trimester. Ripa opened up about the experience in her new book of personal essays, Live Wire: Long-Winded Short Stories, as she exclusively shared an excerpt from the chapter titled, 'It's probably just the flu', where she explains how her 'drinky-drinky, happy-happy' husband couldn't keep quiet. Stunning: She looked ageless in the gallery Gorgeous: Mark shared this snap from one of their intimate dinners on vacation Going green: Kelly swung on a swing set while overlooking a vast green backdrop Kelly and Mark, who are parents to Michael, 25, Lola, 21, and Joaquin, 19, were not trying for baby number three when the star found herself pregnant. At the time, Consuelos was on the other side of the globe filming a movie that required him to go off the grid for 1940s military training, when Kelly discovered she was expecting. Ripa had been battling what she thought was a flu for a little while and when she finally relented and went to the doctor, low and behold it was actually the baby flu. When Mark was finally able to get in touch with his wife - who, at that point, had known for weeks that she was pregnant - it was the crack of dawn. Cat is out of the bag: This comes just days after Kelly exclusively shared an excerpt from her new book of personal essays, Live Wire: Long-Winded Short Stories, to DailyMail.com about how Mark let slip she was pregnant Whoops: She had been battling what she thought was a flu for a little while and when she finally relented and went to the doctor, low and behold it was actually the baby flu (Mark and Kelly seen with their children Michael, 25, Lola, 21, and Joaquin, 19) She penned: '"Hello,'" I purred into the phone, trying to make the most of my predawn voice, the only time my voice sounded sexy.' '"BABY! BAAAAABY! I'M BACK!"' Mark shouted into the phone. He was obviously at a bar, and obviously drinky-drinky, happy-happy.' Ripa hilariously recalls letting her actor husband ramble on about his production for more than a half hour while she kept the big news to herself. 'I heard about the rations, the boot camp, the realistic-looking weapons, the tent, his tent mate James Carpinello, the drills, the SNAKES, the military raids on the faux Japanese camp. The night watch. The falling asleep. The stumbling upon an actual dairy farm, and almost being shot by a real farmer, with a real gun,' she wrote. 'It was the moment of truth. "I'm pregnant." I could hear him doing the math in his head, which very few actors can do, in their heads or otherwise,' Kelly continued. 'I thought I had the flu, or an autoimmune condition, or mono.' Mark was still using the 'mid-Atlantic circa 1940s accent' that was required for the role during his drunken phone call. 'I wondered if he was having a mental breakdown, and whether or not I should even tell him about the thrilling new chapter about to start in our lives,' she mused. 'It was the moment of truth. "I'm pregnant." I could hear him doing the math in his head, which very few actors can do, in their heads or otherwise,' Kelly continued. Consuelos was overjoyed at the prospect and admitted he 'had a feeling'. Kelly, on the other hand, absolutely did not. 'I thought I had the flu, or an autoimmune condition, or mono,' she wrote. She recalled saying: 'Do me a favor, don't say anything, because I haven't told work yet, and you know how it is there, so do me But I don't get a chance to finish the sentence because mid-Atlantic 1940s Mark was back on the line, screaming into the bar, "HEY FELLAS, MY SWEETHEART'S HAVING MY KID!" At this point, all the key players were now aware that the baby who would become Joaquin was on the way ... meaning Kelly and Mark. And, for the TV host, that was exactly how she wanted to keep it for the time being. She recalled saying: 'Do me a favor, don't say anything, because I haven't told work yet, and you know how it is there, so do me' 'But I don't get a chance to finish the sentence because mid-Atlantic 1940s Mark was back on the line, screaming into the bar, "HEY FELLAS, MY SWEETHEART'S HAVING MY KID!" Too funny: The New Jersey native's candor in the pages of Live Wire makes her debut book of essays so relatable to readers - even dear readers didn't have a celebrity accidentally spill the beans about about their major milestones This was actually her second pregnancy secret blown in an unexpected way. In another chapter, Kelly revisits her first time co-hosting Live! after Katie-Lee Gifford left. She had just found out she was pregnant with Lola. She and Mark hadn't even told their families yet and Ripa was nervous that the psychic who was to be the guest on the show would guess the truth. Needless to say, Char Margolis, the psychic in question did actually guess that Kelly was pregnant and said so live on the air. Ripa was flabbergast and forced to admit that, yes, she was pregnant, and no, not a soul knew aside from Mark. The New Jersey native's candor in the pages of Live Wire is makes her debut book of essays so relatable to readers - even if no one else has had a celebrity accidentally spill the beans about their pregnancies. Ripa recently sat down with DailyMail.com for an exclusive interview about the book, which Kelly insists is intended to entertain, not to advise. Still, Live Wire, contains sage advice to working women and mothers woven within the laugh-out-loud anecdotes. 'I want women to get behind each other in a way that is so natural for men,' Kelly previously told DailyMail.com. The diminutive host is small in stature but larger-than-life when it comes to her personality, high energy and goals. She admitted however, that getting to this stage in her life was an uphill battle. 'It took me about 20 years to get there, where I was confident saying, 'absolutely not. That is unacceptable,'' Kelly said. '[Live Wire is] not a self-help book, but if you can find something in myself that helps you, the reader, then I will be happy. If it in some way improves your work life or your ability to negotiate for yourself, or your ability to just know that there is strength in voicing your opinions out loud.' At this point, Ripa has no qualms about voicing her opinions ... in her book, she proudly declares that Botox is fantastic, things with Regis were awkward, the Jersey Shore is better than the Hamptons, she wishes Cher was her mom and yes, Mark Consuelos, really is that hot. Live Wire is on sale now. At this point, Ripa has no qualms about voicing her opinions: In her book, she proudly declares that Botox is fantastic, things with Regis were awkward, the Jersey Shore is better than the Hamptons, she wishes Cher was her mom and yes, Mark Consuelos, really is that hot Dame Kelly Holmes has revealed her worry about being sent to jail for being gay while serving in the British Army. Then former Olympic athlete, 52, who came out as gay in June, was joined by her panel on Loose Women on Monday as she opened up about her time as a sergeant in the British Army. Since it was illegal for members of the community to serve until 2000, many subsequently struggled with homelessness, unemployment and mental health issues while being forced to come out to their family. Worry: Dame Kelly Holmes has revealed her worry about being sent to jail for being gay while serving in the British Army (pictured on Loose Women in September) She explained that many veterans have had a 'humiliating' experience being interrogated if any accusation of homosexual acts were put forward. Kelly told the other Loose Women on Monday: 'It affected me throughout my whole life, because when I joined forces when I was 18 you're told this law and I went through an experience like many veterans have that's absolutely humiliating. 'Your rooms got ransacked and interrogated if there was any hint of it. 'There's 1000s that were affected, many veterans that were assumed or were homosexual, they were court martialled, jailed and kicked out. 'People lost family members and so much more. Tragic: The former Olympic athlete, 52, who came out as gay in June, explained that many veterans have had a 'humiliating' time getting interrogated for being gay (pictured in 1995) 'I was ransacked and had the interrogation. If I was caught, even an insinuation I could've been stripped of everything. 'I wouldn't have become a double Olympic champion or member of British service. 'I was scared witless, and when I came out I had to resolve these issues. I was scared I could still go to jail. 'People that have serves have lived with this in their DNA for so long. I'm finally free, but it took many years.' She is now urging ex soldiers to give proof to an independent probe into the scandal, which left queer servicemen and women stripped of their honours, military pensions, discharged and even jailed. Opening up: Kelly (pictured second left on Monday) said on she 'wouldn't have become a double Olympic champion or member of British service' if she was found to be gay Since it was illegal for members of the community to serve until 2000, many subsequently struggled with homelessness, unemployment and mental health issues while being forced to come out to their family. She first realised she was a lesbian when she kissed another woman in the army back in 1988. She told the Sunday Mirror: 'It was illegal to be gay in the army. The risk, if you were caught, was to be arrested, court-martialled, thrown out, sometimes jailed. 'I had wanted to be in the armed forces since I was 14 and was desperate to stay in, so couldn't let them know. But it was really hard because it consumed my life with fear.' Approximately 500 people have already given testimonies to the independent review, which was approved cross-party in the 2021 Armed Forces Bill and is led by Lord Etherton, ahead of its November 15 deadline. Kelly, who lived in fear of being exposed after joining the British Army at the age of 18, also told the publication: 'This review needs to be as strong as possible so it can force the Government to do something. 'For some people, just acknowledgment that they have been impacted could be enough. But others will need support.' The Honorary Colonel of the Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment is also calling on the Prime Minister to make an apology on behalf of the State, however will settle for 'a notable national figure'. Kanye West says he is determined to make YZY an inclusive brand, despite having his hopes dashed with some of his recent clothing collaborations. The 45-year-old rap icon recently terminated his collaboration with Gap, and he has now outlined his long-term ambition for his fashion brand while speaking to Vogue Business at Paris Fashion Week. Kanye who has legally changed his name to Ye explained: 'Our point, our idea, is that there is no one who is not welcome at YZY, at Donda. Available to all: Kanye West, 45, said in a new interview with Vogue Business that he wants YZY to be an affordable company; seen on Saturday at the Givenchy show in Paris 'And thats why I went to Gap,' he continued. 'And why I brought Demna [Gvasalia, Balenciaga's creative director] with me. To say "OK, Demnas cut is at the top of what Paris has to offer. And Paris is at the top of what fashion has to offer. So lets bring Paris to the people."' Asked why the collaboration didn't work out, Kanye said: 'They made the T-shirts we had done cost $200. And then, they took our color palette and made a shape that was appropriate to what I think someone in the office thought was at the bottom of Maslows hierarchy of needs. And I felt that was civil rights.' When asked to clarify his statement, he explained, 'Well, when we went to shows,' he began, referencing his 2009 trip to Paris with Virgil Abloh and other future fashion luminaries and friends, 'there were certain shows we couldnt get into. 'That relates to the civil rights movement. It shouldnt be that you cant have this fabric or have this cut until youve made it to a certain place or class in life. Its about dignity. And democracy.' Burned: West complained about his recently ended collaboration with Gap, as the brand sold his T-shirts for $200, when he hoped to make them much more affordable; seen with Psalm, Chicago and Saint in Villepinte, France, on Sunday The chart-topping star subsequently suggested that he plans to run YZY as a vertically integrated business. He added: 'We just bought our fourth factory in California.' Kanye recently hit out at both Gap and another of his collaborators, Adidas, for failing to fulfill a promise to build 'permanent stores' for their ventures. Sharing his plans for his brand, the rapper wrote on social media: 'Ill buy the land and or building. Then we gonna open up in every state and then internationally. 'Anyone who has over 10 years retail experience and is ready to change the world post your instagram handle or store location in the comments and we'll find you. 'I signed with both Adidas and Gap because it contractually stated they would build permanent stores which neither company has done even though I saved both of those companies at the same time [sic].' Failure: 'I signed with both Adidas and Gap because it contractually stated they would build permanent stores which neither company has done even though I saved both of those companies at the same time [sic],' he complained; seen Sunday in Paris Kanye has been getting a chance to have some family time while abroad for Paris Fashion Week. His daughter North, nine, was with him while he chatted with Vogue ahead of his YZY fashion show, which was off the official Paris Fashion Week calendar. The show will be his fourth in the fashion capital, and just his eleventh overall. On Saturday, he was seen taking her out to dinner in Paris, along with his other three children: Saint, six; Chicago, four; and Psalm, three. The children had previously been traveling with their mother Kim Kardashian as she headed to Milan Fashion Week, though now they seem to be spending some time with their father. Family: His daughter North, nine, was with him while he chatted with Vogue ahead of his YZY fashion show, which was off the official Paris Fashion Week calendar; seen with Kim Kardashian and Chicago in July in NYC Iris Law is known for her model figure and she showed it off as she stepped out for an intimate designer dinner in Paris. The stunner, 21, showed off her trim pins in a gold vintage Miu Miu minidress, sharing some sultry pictures on Instagram on Monday. The images are from an event she attended in the French capital city last week, celebrating Wardrobe NYC's Hailey Bieber's collaboration. Golden girl! Iris Law showed off her model figure and long legs in a vintage Miu Miu minidress in Paris in pictures uploaded on Instagram on Monday Iris, who is the daughter of actor Jude Law and fashion designer Sadie Frost, looked incredible in her frock, that sells for approximately 315. She teamed the look with a beige belt and a black knitted bonnet, with beige boots and a black handbag. Her look was complete with makeup including lashings of mascara and a glossy lip. Leg's eleven! Iris, who is the daughter of actor Jude Law and fashion designer Sadie Frost, looked incredible in her frock, that sells for approximately 315 Dolled up: Her look was complete with makeup including lashings of mascara and a glossy lip 'Sweet as salt,' her post was captioned. She also said in an Instagram story that she got her stylist to track down her vintage designer dress. 'I asked My Runway Archive to source me some vintage Miu Miu and she outdid herself,' Iris wrote. Details: She teamed the look with a beige belt and a black knitted bonnet, with beige boots and a black handbag 'She outdid herself': She also said in an Instagram story that she got her stylist to track down her vintage designer dress Iris was in Paris for Fashion Week and also attended the Dior show in the city. In April, it was reported she was dating rapper Pa Salieu after secretly splitting from her long-term boyfriend Jyrrel Roberts. It is not known how long the model, 21, has been dating Pa, 24, but they were pictured on a night out in the capital last October. New beau: Iris has found romance with rapper Pa Salieu (pictured October 2021) after secretly splitting from her long-term boyfriend Jyrrel Roberts Famous mum: Iris is the daughter of actress Sadie Frost (pictured left in October 2021) However, it's not clear what Iris' famous parents will make of her new boyfriend after she previously told of how they had instilled in her to always be polite. Last year, Iris, who appears in upcoming Sex Pistols drama Pistol, told ES Magazine: 'I've been brought up with morals, not necessarily to do with acting but for life. I've always been told to be polite, to be on time, to be attentive, to work really hard.' Yet Pa is no stranger to a questionable lyric, often rapping about violence and gun use. Pa was named BBC's Sound Of 2021 and his debut single Frontline was the most-played track of 2020 on BBC Radio 1Xtra. In 2018, the hitmaker was out with friend Fidel Glasgow, 21, grandson of The Specials' Neville Staple, when Fidel was killed outside Coventry's Club M. David Beckham poked fun at his wife Victoria's new gadget in a funny Instagram Story on Monday. The couple are currently staying in France after the designer made her Paris Fashion Week debut on Friday. Yet David, 47, admitted he'd been struggling to fall asleep in their luxury hotel room due to the brightness of his wife's book lamp. Love and light: Shirtless David Beckham poked fun at wife Victoria's book light on Monday as he shared a selfie in bed at their hotel room in Paris Sharing a shirtless selfie in bed he showed just how the bright the gadget had made the room as he quipped: 'So my wife has a new light for her book from amazon WOW @victoriabeckham. 'To be clear there are no other lights on in the room. Love and light.' A clearly unbothered Victoria was determined to carry on reading regardless, clearly engrossed in her copy of Malibu Rises, the tale of 'four famous siblings throw an epic party to celebrate the end of the summer. But over the course of twenty-four hours, their lives will change forever.' The book is being adapted by Hulu into a TV show. David later shared another shirtless selfie on his hotel balcony wearing a pair shades as he quipped: 'Gonna have to wear some @dbeyewear for bed soon.' Bright lights: He later shared another shirtless selfie on his hotel balcony wearing a pair shades as he quipped: 'Gonna have to wear some @dbeyewear for bed soon' It comes after Victoria reached out to son Brooklyn and daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz with a heartfelt message after they squashed feud rumours with a reunion at her PFW show. The fashion designer, 48, took to Instagram on Sunday to share a picture of the couple alongside the message: 'I love you all so much', which Nicola went on to re-share. Victoria also uploaded an image of her parents Jackie and Anthony Adams with the couple, with the star seemingly delighted to have things back on track with her loved ones. Harmonious: It comes after Victoria reached out to son Brooklyn Beckham and daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz with a heartfelt message after they squashed feud rumours last week It comes just days after Brooklyn and Nicola attended Victoria's debut Paris Fashion Week show on Friday where they finally put to bed speculation that they had fallen out with the Spice Girl. Putting on a further united front, Victoria's gushing post featured Nicola and Brooklyn - as well as other family members - in the audience at her fashion show. The couple beamed in matching black and denim outfits as they joined the rest of the Beckham clan, including David, at the event in the French capital. All together now: Victoria also uploaded an image of her parents Jackie and Anthony Adams with the couple, with the star seemingly delighted to have things back on track It comes after Victoria was seen chatting to her son Brooklyn outside her Paris Fashion Week show while Nicola socialised with Cruz's girlfriend Tana Holding as the family reunited following feud rumours. The couple attended and arrived half an hour early to show their support, with 'lots of hugs' going on when they were all reunited for the first time since this summer, said a source in the room. And video footage taken outside the event shows Victoria laughing with her son Brooklyn, while Nicola socialised with Cruz's girlfriend Tana Holding and Harper Seven. Together: The couple beamed in matching black and denim outfits as they joined the rest of the Beckham clan at the event in the French capital In the 30-second clip, Victoria looks glamorous in a figure-hugging black dress as she chats with Brooklyn, who is seen flashing a huge smile as he enjoys a drink. During their avid chat, a woman approaches Victoria but she points at her son and instead continues their conversation, with the woman then walking away. The mother and son then edge towards Nicola, who is facing the other way as she chats to Brooklyn's sister Harper, 11, and Cruz's model girlfriend Tana. Brooklyn is seen placing his hand on his wife's back and holding the waistband of her jeans as he continues speaking to his mother, while Nicola carries on her chat with Tana. The footage ends with Victoria standing next to Nicola as Brooklyn stands behind his wife with his arm around her waist. Brooklyn and Nicola - who arrived separate to the Beckhams - walked hand-in-hand as they stepped out at the event, with the heiress gazing lovingly into her husband's eyes. After entering Victoria's much-anticipated fashion show, the couple sat on the front row with Brooklyn's father David, 47, and his siblings - Harper, Romeo, 20, and Cruz, 17. Kim Kardashian has expanded her cultural empire with the release of her new Spotify-exclusive podcast on Monday. The first two episodes of Kim Kardashians The System: The Case Of Kevin Keith are now available to listeners, and they arrive two years after the 41-year-old reality star signed an exclusive deal with the music and podcast streaming service. The series, which Kardashian narrates, is inspired by her years-long interest in criminal-justice reform and focuses on Kevin Keith, an Ohio man who was sentenced to death for committing a triple murder, before former governor Ted Strickland commuted his sentence to life without parole in 2010. New venture: Kim Kardashian, 41, launched her Spotify-exclusive podcast Kim Kardashians The System: The Case Of Kevin Keith on Monday, with the first two episodes made available; seen September 24 in Milan, Italy Joining Kardashian in narrating the podcast is Lori Rothschild Ansaldi, a producer and fellow criminal-justice reform advocate. Spotify and Tenderfoot TV are producing the audio series. The current show will focus on Keith's attempts over the years to prove his innocence after he was convicted in 1994 of committing three murders in Bucyrus, Ohio. Kim has previously said that there was no physical evidence connecting the convict, who is currently jailed at Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio, to the crime. Although concerns about the evidence used against him at trial led former Governor Strickland to downgrade his sentence to life in prison, he still faces the possibility of dying in prison unless his conviction is overturned. 'Im really hopeful for this podcast, just to get your story out there, because I think its so important for people to understand that our system is so f***ed up,' Kardashian says during a conversation with Keith on the podcast, via Variety. Looking back: : The series is inspired by her interest in criminal-justice reform and focuses on Kevin Keith, an Ohio man sentenced to death for a triple murder, before former governor Ted Strickland commuted his sentence to life without parole in 2010; Kim seen in 2019 Reaching out: Kardashian, who narrates the eight-episode show, previously urged former President Donald Trump to free Alice Marie Johnson in 2018 after she was sentence to life for a non-violent drug offense. He commuted her sentence that year; seen in 2019 In recent years, Kim has taken her passion in reforming the justice system by advocating for the release of prisoners widely believed to be innocent of the crimes they were convicted for. Part of her advocacy included appealing to people in positions of power, including former President Donald Trump. Her 2018 appeal to Trump on behalf of Alice Marie Johnson was one of her highest-profile success, as he subsequently commuted Johnson's sentence. She had been sentenced to life in prison for a non-violent drug charge and had spent 22 years behind bars before Kardashian was able to secure her freedom. Keith, the focus of her new podcast, has already been in prison for 28 years for a crime he claims he is innocent of. In 2019, Kardashian revealed that she had had a conversation with Keith about his conviction. 'The police rushed to judgment when they arrested Kevin,' she said in a subsequent post from 2020. 'This innocent man went from living freely to having his world upended by a murder trial to death row in under 4 months. That's more than enough injustice for one person. OH needs to correct its mistake before it's too late.' Early on during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the fashion star advocated to get Keith released for his own safety as Covid-19 swept through prisons, where measures to slow its spread have been particularly lax. Advocacy: Keith has been in prison for 28 years for the triple murder, but Kardashian has previously claimed there is no physical evidence linking him to the crime; seen in 2019 Making contact: In 2019, Kardashian revealed that she had had a conversation with Keith about his conviction. She advocated for his release in 2020 as Covid-19 swept through prisons Variety notes that Kim shares how she decided to go public with her interest in the case while making an appearance on Family Feud. As part of her goal to raise awareness about criminal-justice reform, Kardashian and her podcast are partnering with the organizations Color of Change and Calling All Crows. Color of Change is described as the largest online-based organization focused on racial justice, and it will share facts about wrongful convictions with The System's fans and listeners. Calling All Crows is an organization that helps raise awareness about criminal-justice reform among music fans. Kim's interest in criminal-justice reform has developed at the same time that she has been studying to get her law license. In December, she gushed that she had passed the Baby Bar exam after failing it multiple times. The test is an essential step to becoming a lawyer for those who do not go to law school. Making progress: In December, she gushed that she had passed the Baby Bar exam after failing it multiple times. The test is an essential step to becoming a lawyer for those who do not go to law school; seen with Van Jones in 2018 Kardashian's renewed focus wrongful convictions comes as she recently faced her own legal issues. The SKIMS founder was hit with a $1.26 million fine which she agreed to pay by the Securities and Exchange Commission on Monday. The SEC accused her of advertising the cryptocurrency Ethereum Max in June 2021 without disclosing that she had been paid to promote it. She was reportedly paid $250,000 for sharing an Instagram Stories post about the crypto coin. As part of the agreement, Kardashian will be banned from promoting cryptocurrency for three years. Michael Rhodes, a lawyer for Kardashian told DailyMail.com in a statement: 'Ms. Kardashian is pleased to have resolved this matter with the SEC. 'Kardashian fully cooperated with the SEC from the very beginning and she remains willing to do whatever she can to assist the SEC in this matter. 'She wanted to get this matter behind her to avoid a protracted dispute. 'The agreement she reached with the SEC allows her to do that so that she can move forward with her many different business pursuits.' Steve-O recently gave an update on his longtime friend and Jackass castmate Bam Margera, who is currently in rehab for drugs and alcohol. The 48-year-old former MTV star said in an interview with SiriusXMs Faction Talk that he would 'never give up' on Margera, 43. 'I love him and even if I didn't love him, I'm never gonna give up on him because that's how it works,' he told hosts Jim Norton and Sam Roberts. Speaking out: Steve-O recently gave an update on his longtime friend and Jackass castmate Bam Margera, who's currently in rehab for drugs and alcohol The longtime TV personality admitted that when he recently spoke to Margera 'he sounded super drunk, but he was in good spirits.' After escaping from court-ordered in-patient treatment twice, Bam returned to a rehabilitation center in June. 'Its so f***ing nuts how hes not just resistant to the idea of surrendering to recovery, but just how he literally just doesnt seem to grasp the disease concept,' Steve-O real name Stephen Gilchrist Glover noted. The stuntman explained, 'Hes like, "Man, if I just stay busy Its when Im not busy doing stuff all the time, I get into trouble..." Its, like, thats not how it works, dude. You think you would know that by now.' Recent history: In June, Bam fled rehab twice and was found days later at a Deerfield Beach, Florida hotel and taken back to rehab Glover, who rose to fame in the early aughts with Margera, added, 'Ive been physically present at almost every stop on his years-long tour of rehabs and psych wards. 'Im careful never to try to push sobriety on anybody. I feel strongly that if you do that, what youre actually doing is pushing them away from sobriety,' he said. That awareness seems to have preserved the two stars' friendship, as Steve also stated in the sit-down, 'When I spoke to him a couple nights ago, he goes, "Dude, you know, I just want to thank you, man, because youve always been there for me." 'Im like, "Yeah, Ive always been there to tell you how awful the situation is."' Longtime friend: Glover, who rose to fame in the early aughts with Margera, added, 'Ive been physically present at almost every stop on his years-long tour of rehabs and psych wards; pictured with Johnny Knoxville in 2002 In May, Margera marked 'one year of treatment' for drug and alcohol abuse at a Boca Raton facility and planned on attending outpatient treatment classes for the following two months. But just weeks later he was reported missing by his rehab facility on June 13 after he fled the location for a second time. Sheriff's deputies and a crisis intervention team found the troubled TV star days later at a hotel in Deerfield Beach, Florida, and then took him to a different rehab facility. Margera, a father-of-one, said he left treatment because he was worried that he was being kept from seeing his son. He shares Phoenix Wolf Margera, four, with wife Nicole Boyd, who he married in 2013. Gwendoline Christie looked incredible as she took to the catwalk at the Thom Browne show during Paris Fashion Week on Monday. The actress, 43, donned a billowing silk opera coat as she performed a retelling of the fairy tale Cinderella that opened the show. Strutting her stuff in front of huge stiletto backdrop, Gwendoline doused herself in perfume before gazing into a mirror for the quirky performance. Incredible: Gwendoline Christie, 43, looked incredible as she took to the catwalk at the Thom Browne show during Paris Fashion Week on Monday The lavish outfit featured a huge silk coat which was adorned with a gold baroque design which glistened under the lights during the lipsync performance. She layered it over a full red lady bodysuit that boasted a high ruffled neck and matching gloves. The statuesque star slipped her feet into a pair of gold heels to walk the length of the city's Opera Garnier venue. Show stopping: The actress donned a billowing silk opera coat to she performed a retelling of the fairy tale Cinderella that opened the show Quirky: Strutting her stuff in front of huge stiletto backdrop, Gwendoline doused herself in perfume before gazing into a mirror for the quirky performance Lavish: The lavish outfit featured a huge silk coat which was adorned with a gold baroque design Accentuating her featured with a dewey make-up look the actress wore her blonde tresses slicked back into a ponytail. Gwendoline sat at a small table that was littered with swanky perfume bottles for the memorable moment of performance art. She then rose to her feet and was greeted with a round of applause as she took to the catwalk to show off the ensemble in more detail. Stylish: She layered it over a full red lady bodysuit that boasted a high ruffled neck and matching gloves Arty: Gwendoline sat at a small table that was littered with swanky perfume bottles for the memorable moment of performance art Incredible: She then rose to her feet and was greeted with a round of applause as she took to the catwalk to show off the ensemble in more detail Thom Browne is an American designer who launched her luxury women's wear brand in 2014, following his success as a menswear designer. In 2013 First Lady Michelle Obama famous wore a scarf from his range to her husband Barack Obama's second inauguration. Elsewhere on the catwalk Bella Hadid looked out of this world in a red, black and white cartoon couture-inspired outfit. The 25-year-old wore a low rise pleated black miniskirt that sat low on her hips and flashed her black underwear underneath. Stunning: Elsewhere on the catwalk Bella Hadid looked out of this world in a red, black and white cartoon couture-inspired outfit She paired it with a black and white cropped blazer, designed to look like a tuxedo jacket. Bella added a pair of red gloves and elevated her height in a pair of black lace-up high heels, with spotted woolen socks. Underneath her outfit, she was clad in a sheer red bodysuit and wore a matching red net ruff around her neck. Her brunette tresses were scraped back in a sleek updo, decorated with feathers and she wore a net veil over her face. Garrett Yrigoyen and Alex Farrar are getting ready to tie the knot. The Bachelorette star, 33, asked his yoga instructor partner to marry him in San Diego on Sunday. He revealed the news of their engagement in an Instagram post, writing, 'Our engagement was exactly how I imagined it. I love you so much Alexandra. I cant wait to spend forever with you lil Al.' Engaged: Garrett Yrigoyen and Alex Farrar are getting ready to tie the knot, he shared this week Farrar also posted photos where she was cuddled up to her man, and her huge diamond ring glittered in the sunlight. 'When two become one [diamond ring emoji] I love you Garrett Vincent Yrigoyen. I want all of you forever, everyday,' she wrote. 'HECK YES I WILL MARRY YOU!!!! #engaged.' Before the pair got together, Garrett proposed to Becca Kufrin after the couple met on season 14 of The Bachelorette in 2018. Getting ready to marry: The Bachelorette star, 33, asked his yoga instructor partner to marry him in San Diego on Sunday Cuddled up: He revealed the news of their engagement in an Instagram post, writing, 'Our engagement was exactly how I imagined it. I love you so much Alexandra. I cant wait to spend forever with you lil Al' Giant diamond ring: Farrar also posted photos where she was cuddled up to her man, and her huge diamond ring glittered in the sunlight The moment: Garrett posted a photo from the moment he asked her to marry him However, their relationship came to a close after Yrigoyen made some controversial comments in the wake of George Floyd's murder. 'Ive been pretty tore up the past week about everything going on. Ive listened, learned, helped, supported, and grown,' he wrote on Instagram about two weeks after Floyd was killed. 'With so many friends and family in law enforcement I couldnt sit back and not support them and the hundreds of thousands of men and women of all races that represent this Thin Blue Line as well.' He continued, 'Its important for me to recognize the ones who stand in the gap and put their lives on the line each and every single day for humans of different race and ethnicity, including those who hate them. The Thin Blue Line represents each officer protecting protestors, properties, and businesses while being threatened, attacked, shot, shot at, hit with vehicles, and other forms of brutality. 'There have been over 300 injured, shot, or killed in just one week. They are suffering the consequences over an act they didnt commit. They continue to put in overtime away from their families, stay silent while being threatened, hated, and assaulted.' Former partner: Before the pair got together, Garrett proposed to Becca Kufrin after the couple met on season 14 of The Bachelorette in 2018 (L to R: Kaitlyn Bristowe, Kufrin, Michelle Young pictured 2020) Happy new couple: Kufrin has since moved on as well. She's currently engaged to Bachelor in Paradise alum Thomas Jacobs. They met in while filming season seven of the show in Mexico The couple stayed together for a few more months, but eventually decided to part ways after two years of dating. Kufrin has since moved on as well. She's currently engaged to Bachelor in Paradise alum Thomas Jacobs. They met in while filming season seven of the show in Mexico. 'Garrett and I have decided to end our engagement. After many conversations, we came to this decision. It wasnt something that we just arrived at one night,' Kufrin explained. 'It wasnt based solely off of one Instagram post or somebody elses opinions or comments. Theres much more to it. To any relationship, theres a lot of layers, and its not for me to divulge details.' She went into more detail about the breakup during an interview with Insider the following year. 'I was like whats important to me? Whats important to him? Are we going to be able to make a lasting relationship for a lifetime off of our differences?' she told the outlet. 'How are we going to raise kids? What kinds of conversations do we want to be having with those children? Can I still stay in this relationship and live with myself and feel that its the right decision for me and my future children?' Daisy Lowe has announced that she is expecting her first child with her property developer fiance Jordan Saul. The model, 33, shared the joyous news via Instagram on Monday as she posted a sweet snap of her blossoming bump - admitting 'Im oscillating wildly between excitement & nervousness'. And it comes just weeks after the pair announced their engagement to social media, with her beau Jordan popping the question afer two years of dating. Daisy Lowe is pregnant! Model announces she is expecting her first child with fiance Jordan Saul... just weeks after announcing their engagement Taking to Instagram to reveal the news to her 403k followers, Daisy penned: 'I wanted to share some news with you - Jordan & I are having a baby. 'We are absolutely bursting at the seams with happiness. Im oscillating wildly between excitement & nervousness with a dash of morning sickness thrown in for good measure! Big love to all of you' And in the snap, the beauty cradled her bump while sporting a figure-hugging slip dress - as the camera caught her stunning side profile. Engagement: It comes just weeks after the pair announced their engagement to social media, with her beau Jordan popping the question afer two years of dating Announcement: Taking to Instagram to reveal the news to her 403k followers, Daisy penned: 'I wanted to share some news with you - Jordan & I are having a baby Daisy also shared an ultrasound baby scan picture in the post, as fans and friends rushed to the comments to congratulate the couple. 'The best news! Congrats x', wrote Dermot O'Leary, as stars such as Clara Amfo, Zoe Ball and Jessie J all took to the comments to offer their well wishes. Daisy is daughter to Bush guitarist Gavin Rossdale and fashion designer Pearl Lowe. And the baby news comes after Daisy and Jordan announced that they are set to tie knot earlier this month with a sweet kissing snap. Happy couple: The pair have been dating for two years and were first spotted on a romantic outing together in a London park back in the summer of 2020 Who is Daisy Lowe's fiance Jordan Saul? Jordan and Daisy first began dating back in the summer of 2020 when they were spotted on a romantic outing together in a London park He is thought to work as a new home consultant for an estate agent. An avid traveller, Jordan openly documents his various international adventures, including regular stops in South Africa and plenty of ski trips Jordan and Daisy appear to have first bonded over their love of animals, with one of their first dates being a trip to the zoo. Advertisement Sharing that the shot was taken just moments before her beau popped the question, Daisy explained: 'We took this picture this afternoon moments before @jordansaul ASKED ME TO MARRY HIM!!! I' said f**k yes i am officially your fiance & I cant wait to spend the rest of my life with you my hubby to be.' While Jordan shared a similar snap to his own grid, jesting: 'you're stuck with me now'. The pair have been dating for two years and were first spotted on a romantic outing together in a London park back in the summer of 2020. And since then, have shared a slew of loved up snaps to their respective Instagram feeds - including family shots with Jordan's adorable pup Kai. The outing comes after Daisy gave a candid insight into her sex life and admitted she feels happiest when having sex 'two or three times a day'. The star also explained that orgasms are a great way to 'relieve stress'. Speaking to The Sun, she said: 'I always knew good sex made me feel a lot better - orgasms are so good for stress relieving.' Noting that she mainly has sex 'every other day', Daisy expanded: 'On a great day, two or three times a day if thats where it gets to.' Detailing what get's her in the mood, the star said that lingerie from brand Agent Provocateur makes her feel 'sexiest', but comfy T-shirts also have a similar effect. Further in the chat, Daisy pointed out her biggest 'turn-ons' - noting that good driving and kindness was the key to her heart. Good news: 'I said f**k yes i am officially your fiance & I cant wait to spend the rest of my life with you my hubby to be' wrote Daisy as she announced her engagement to Jordan Whoopi Goldberg has slammed a critic who had falsely accused her of wearing a fat suit in the upcoming Emmett Till biopic. The 66-year-old actress addressed the controversy live Monday morning on The View as she made clear that she did not wear anything to make her body look bigger in Till. Kyndall Cunningham had originally wrote that the star donned a 'distracting fat suit' in the review published by The Daily Beast on Friday. Taking a stand: Whoopi Goldberg has slammed a critic who had falsely accused her of wearing a fat suit in the upcoming Emmett Till biopic (pictured in the film on the left, she is seen in New York on Friday on the right) Opening up: The 66-year-old actress addressed the controversy live Monday morning on The View as she made clear that she did not wear anything to make her body look bigger in Till Whoopi used her platform to call the writer out as she said: 'A lady who writes for one of the magazines and she was distracted by my fat suit in her review. 'Im just going to say this, I dont really care how you felt about the movie, but you should know that was not a fat suit that was me.' She continued by saying: 'I assume you don't watch the show, or you would know that was not a fat suit.' Kyndall Cunningham had originally wrote that the star donned a 'distracting fat suit' in the review published by The Daily Beast on Friday Whoopi used her platform to call the writer out: 'A lady who writes for one of the magazines and she was distracted by my fat suit in her review. Im just going to say this, I dont really care how you felt about the movie, but you should know that was not a fat suit that was me' Not holding back: Whoopi has been open about her weight struggles in the past, she is pictured in June 2018 on the left and November 2021 on the right Whoopi made sure to note that it was 'okay to not be a fan of the movie' but urged that the writer not judge the way people look when it comes to critiquing film. She explained: 'Just comment on the acting, and if you have a question, ask somebody. I'm sure you didn't mean to be demeaning.' Fellow The View panelist Sunny Hostin was surprised over body suit comment as Whoopi has been open about 'health challenges' that she had endured. 'Just comment on the acting': Whoopi made sure to note that it was 'okay to not be a fan of the movie' but urged that the writer not judge the way people look when it comes to critiquing film 'We will hope that she just didn't know': Fellow The View panelist Sunny Hostin was surprised over body suit comment as Whoopi has been open about 'health challenges' that she had endured The star responded by saying: 'We will hope that she just didn't know, and now she'll know the next time you go to talk about somebody, you talk about them as an actor. 'If you're not sure if that's them in there, don't make blanket statements, because it makes you not sound like you know what you're doing.' The Daily Beast review has since been updated with an editor's note which read: 'This story has been updated to reflect that Whoopi Goldberg says she was not wearing a fat suit.' The Daily Beast review has since been updated with an editor's note which read: 'This story has been updated to reflect that Whoopi Goldberg says she was not wearing a fat suit,' Whoopi is seen on Friday Whoopi has been open about her weight struggles as back in July 2021, she responded to Valerie Bertinelli's tearful detailing of her life-long struggle with weight loss while hitting back at a critic who body-shamed her online, saying the comment is 'not f**king helpful.' The Food Network host, now 62, opened up on her Instagram Stories on Thursday, explaining that she was going through her recipes online when she 'made the mistake of reading the comments.' 'Someone decided to point out that I needed to lose weight,' Bertinelli said, her voice filled with emotion as she spoke to the camera. Days later, Whoopi appeared on The View and said: 'I too am Valerie Bertinelli. I have the same issues.' Whoopi is seen in September 1991 on the left and October 2021 on the right Whoopi does not only star in the upcoming film Till but is also a producer. The biographical film is a profoundly emotional and cinematic film about the true story of Mamie Till Mobleys relentless pursuit of justice for her 14 year old son, Emmett Till, who, in 1955, was lynched while visiting his cousins in Mississippi. Whoopi potrays Alma Carthan who is the mother to Mamie and grandmother to Emmett. The film was directed by Chinonye Chukwu and also stars Danielle Deadwyler, Jalyn Hall, Frankie Faison, Hayley Bennett, Sean Patrick Thomas, John Douglas Thompson, and Gem Marc Collins. Till is set to release in select theaters on October 14 with a nationwide release to follow on October 28. Advertisement Lashana Lynch pulled out all the stops on Monday evening as she took to The Woman King premiere red carpet in London's Leicester Square. The BAFTA winning actress, 34, donned a gold gown which was emblazoned with decadent jewels and sequins, with a matching cape complementing the bold look. Joining her at the star-studded bash was rapper Saweetie, who displayed her gorgeous physique in a figure-hugging catsuit, while actress Viola Davis opting for a chic monochrome number. Star-studded: Lashana Lynch (left) oozed glamour in a decadent gold jewelled gown while Saweetie (centre) displayed her svelte figure in a fitted catsuit on Monday as they joined a chic Viola Davis (right) for the premiere of The Woman King in London Lashana's Jenny Packham designed gown featured a mesh overlay and softly scooped neckline, with a matching poncho-style garment layered over the top - completely covered in jewels. And the Still Star-Crossed actress didn't hold back on the glitz as she added a statement silver jewel necklace and matching drop earrings to the already stunning look. Keeping with the gold colour scheme, she slightly elevated her height with a pair of open-toed gold heels with a double strap detail. And adding a glamorous palette of makeup, Lashana, who stars in The Woman King, opted for a deek brown smokey eye with a glossy lip. Full glam: And adding a glamorous palette of makeup, Lashana opted for a deek brown smokey eye with a glossy lip Wow! Her gown featured a mesh overlay and softly scooped neckline, with a matching poncho-style garment layered over the top - completely covered in jewels Extra touches: And the Still Star-Crossed actress didn't hold back on the glitz as she added a statement silver jewel necklace and matching drop earrings to the already stunning look Smiles: Beaming for snaps at the A-list event, Lashana appeared in high spirits Lashana plays the character of Izogie in the action-drama flick, which is set in the 1800s and focuses on a group of all-female warriors working to protect the African kingdom of Dahomey. Viola plays leading role Nanisca in the flick, and looked stunning as she took to the UK premiere with her husband Julius Tennon. Donning a monochrome striped gown with floral embellishings and a sleeveless design, the beauty pulled her tresses into an old Hollywood style high bun, with her fringe left to fall. She added a pair of gold statement earrings to the look, going for a heavy black smokey eye and nude lip. Viola's husband of 19 years looked smart as he posed alongside her, sporting a checkered suit over a soft pink shirt. Date night: Viola plays leading role Nanisca in The Woman King, and looked stunning in a Greta Constantine dress and Almasika earrings as she took to the UK premiere with her husband Julius Tennon (L-R) John Boyega, Thuso Mbedu, Viola Davis, director Gina Prince-Bythewood, Lashana Lynch, Sheila Atim and Cathy Schulman Co-stars: The cast gathered together for some snaps at the premiere event Nailed it: Saweetie added a spot of colour with platformed red heels, with a studded black handbag over her shoulder Gorgeous: Her curly locks were swept away from her face in a high ponytail, as the rapper added a pair of cross drop earrings to the look All smiles: Beaming for snaps hand-in-hand with a guest, the star opted for a full glam makeup look for the event Screen star: John Boyega portrays the character of King Ghezo in the film On-screen: The Woman King is set in the 1800s and focuses on a group of all-female warriors working to protect the African kingdom of Dahomey Suave: The actor dropped his royal look for a stylish suit on Monday as he took to the red carpet in a geometric patterned blazer with a matching waistcoat Meanwhile, Saweetie was among the other A-list guests to take to the red carpet - looking incredible in a slinky black catsuit - which had a high neck and finger cut-outs. She added a spot of colour with platformed red heels, with a studded black handbag over her shoulder. Beaming for snaps, the American rapper had her curly locks pulled into a high ponytail as she added a pair of gold cross earrings to the look. Glimmering: And celebrating the new release, a host of other guests took to the screening - including Oti Mabuse, who turned heads in a diamante encrusted midi dress with a high neck and long-sleeve design Stunning: The dancer gathered her locks away from her face and into a high bun Enjoyed it? Oti was all smiles as she exited the central London Odeon Luxe after watching the movie Keeping warm: She layered with a longline chocolate coat later in the evening to keep warm while heading out with another guest The premiere took place ahead of The Woman King's October 4 release date, with the movie being inspired by true events. John Boyega portrays the character of King Ghezo, but dropped his royal look for a stylish suit on Monday as he took to the red carpet in a geometric patterned blazer with a matching waistcoat. Sheila Atim, who stars as Amenza in the film, also stunned in a statement red gown with feathered shoulder detailing. And celebrating the new release, a host of other guests took to the screening - including Oti Mabuse, who turned heads in a diamante encrusted midi dress with a high neck and long-sleeve design. Couture: Oti added a pair of Louboutin black heels with a double strap detail on them to finish her glam look Lady in red: Sheila Atim, who stars as Amenza in the film, also stunned in a statement red gown with feathered shoulder detailing Matching: The beauty added red heels and matching bright lip to the complementing look Classic look: Adrienne Herbert oozed chic in a black gown, which featured cut-out detailing on the torso Bold: Shaina West went for a dusty pink look, with mesh detailing - pairing it with open-toed, lip embellished heels Torso baring: Clara Amfo was also in attendance to the bash, flashing her stomach in a mustard maxi dress with silver clasp detailing Dramatic: The beauty opted for a dramatic hair syle with a large bun towering at the top of her head Elizabeth Hurley talked all about her work toward beating breast cancer during an interview on Today Monday. When the Austin Powers actress sat down with Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush on the Today show she shared that she has worked with Estee Lauder for 27 years to raise awareness for breast cancer. The cosmetics giant is reportedly donating $15 million over the next five years to deal with disparity when it comes to breast cancer research. 'It is going to be addressed,' she said. News from EH: Elizabeth Hurley had a big announcement to make on Monday Lots of money: When the Austin Powers actress sat down with Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush on the Today show she shared that she has worked with Estee Lauder for 27 years to raise awareness for breast cancer. This year is special because Estee Lauder is donating $15 million over the next five years to deal with disparity when it comes to breast cancer research, she said Hurley also talked about her being friends with close pal Elton John. 'He is an amazing man,' she dished. 'He has been a friend for a long time, he is godfather to my son and I went to stay with him this summer, but he has always helped with Breast Cancer Awareness... he's phenomenal.' Hurley was also asked about being mom to 20-year-old son Damian: 'During lockdown, we spent so much time with family, we bonded and it's been great.' The star also said that she thought bath time and school runs would be the hardest part of having a kid, but she thinks adult kids need more help. I heart Elton: Hurley also talked a close pal. She said that she is close friends with Elton John: 'He is an amazing man. He has been a friend for a long time, he is godfather to my son and I went to stay with him this summer' Generous: And she added, 'He has always helped with Breast Cancer Awareness... he's phenomenal' And the actress also said with the Queen gone it is the 'end of an era.' 'She was a people's queen,' she added. Hurley cut a chic figure while heading to the set of Today in New York City on Monday. The 57-year-old actress stepped out in a pink silky top and black trousers. She walked in black high heels, and she accessorized with a pair of reflective black sunglasses. Also on Monday the actress, who is a longstanding Global Ambassador for ELC's Breast Cancer Campaign spoke to DailyMail exclusively about how the passing of her grandmother impacted her awareness. Fashionable: Hurley cut a causal chic figure while heading to Today in New York City on Monday 'Evelyn H. Lauder co-created the Pink Ribbon and founded The Estee Lauder Companies' Breast Cancer Campaign as she recognized that women around the world were dying from breast cancer, and no one was talking about it,' she began. 'Ironically, it was around this same time that I had just lost my beloved grandmother to breast cancer she put off going to the doctor for a year and never spoke about it,' began the Austin Powers star. 'Now, three decades later, it's encouraging to see that breast cancer is not the taboo it once was. Long locks: Her light brown hair was brushed off to the left and fell in thick curls down past her shoulders 'More people are talking about it and awareness levels and access to information about breast cancer have significantly increased. But we still need to do more to improve self-checking rates as we know that early detection saves lives.' This comes as new research released by The Estee Lauder Companies (ELC) UK & Ireland has revealed that eight in 10 women do not regularly check their breasts for signs of cancer and that more needs to be done to encourage everybody to check for signs of the disease. She is supporting this year's Estee Lauder Companies' Breast Cancer Campaign to encourage women to check their breasts regularly for signs of breast cancer. Her light brown hair was brushed off to the left and fell in thick curls down past her shoulders. She flashed a bright white smile, and her lips, painted a vibrant pink, matched her shirt perfectly. Her appearance on the show came on the same day she attended an event for breast cancer awareness on The Empire State Building. Big event: Her appearance on the show came on the same day she attended an event for breast cancer awareness on The Empire State Building Stylish outfit: At the event, put on by the Estee Lauder Companies' Breast Cancer Campaign, Hurley donned a shiny pink jacket and a pair of matching pants Scale model: She posed in front of a scale model of the building At the event, put on by the Estee Lauder Companies' Breast Cancer Campaign, Hurley donned a shiny pink jacket and a pair of matching pants. Hurley held a multicolored clutch in her hand, and she posed in front of a scale model of the building. She was joined by Executive Chairman of Estee Lauder William P. Lauder at the event. Holding an award: Hurley held a statue shaped like the iconic skyscraper in her hand Matching shoes: She wore tall high heels which matched the rest of her outfit as well The duo lit up the Empire State Building by pulling down a lever. The huge skyscraper lit up a bright pink. Estee Lauder has done quite a bit to fight breast cancer in the past 30 years including funding more than $108 million globally for lifesaving research, education and medical services and more than $86 million towards funding medical research grants through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an international effort to fight the disease which 2.3 million people are diagnosed with every year. Executive chairman: She was joined by Executive Chairman of Estee Lauder William P. Lauder at the event Giving a speech: Hurley stood at the podium and spoke during the event Paris Hilton says she has spoken to seven pet mediums who all say that her missing dog Diamond Baby is still alive and someone has her as her over 20 day search rolls on. The 41-year-old heiress took to her Instagram Story to reveal that she has sought the guidance of several professional clairvoyants to aid in finding her precious chihuahua that has been missing since September 14. Perhaps the most shocking revelation was that the seven mediums all believe the dog is alive and in the possession of someone. She wrote: 'I have spoken to 7 credible pet mediums/communicators that all say she is alive & that someone has her. So that gives me hope [tearful emoji] And at this point Hope is the only thing getting through.' MIA: Paris Hilton (seen in September 2019) says she has spoken to seven pet mediums who all say that her missing dog Diamond Baby is still alive and someone has her as her over 20 day search rolls on The star - who posted an image of her precious pooch - said that she was originally going to raise the $10,000 reward but was advised not to. She said: 'For those of you asking, I was about to raise price of reward to a crazy number but my security team said not to because that would put my other dogs & myself in dangers as they might become targets for the sick creep that might try and kidnap them for reward. 'Sad to me that we even have to worry about something like that but unfortunately there are some real messed up people in this world.' 'I have spoken to 7 credible pet mediums/communicators that all say she is alive & that someone has her': The 41-year-old heiress took to her Instagram Story to reveal that she has sought the guidance of several professional clairvoyants to aid in finding her precious chihuahua that has been missing since September 14 She concluded the message writing: 'Please keep an eye out for my little girl & if you know someone who has her, please have a heart and contact me and you will receive the full reward. Thank you' This comes amid a report on Friday that the search for Diamond Baby has ended in tragedy as experts believe it was snatched by a hungry coyote. A source closely involved in the hunt, which started on September 14 when Ms Hilton was away from her 8 million Hollywood Hills home and a workman is believed to have left a side door open, told The Mail on Sunday: Its not looking good. Its been a massive hunt with global publicity, but weve not had a single sighting. Usually in a case like this there are multiple sightings if a dog is roaming loose. Last week, the heartbroken socialite and hotel chain heiress Paris Hilton launched the biggest dog hunt in Hollywood history, enlisting an army of canine psychics, dog whisperers and pet detectives in a desperate attempt to track down her lost six-year-old 'daughter' (pictured together in 2019) The 41-year-old offered a reward of $10,000 (9,200) for the return of her pet, who went missing last month, with 'no questions asked' If Diamond Baby had been dognapped, we would have expected a ransom demand by now. But there have been no calls. Its very sad but Paris is coming to the conclusion she may never see Diamond Baby again. She is heartbroken. The hotel heiress, 41, pictured with Diamond Baby, launched her dramatic appeal to find the six-year-old chihuahua, which she described as like a daughter to me, with a social media blitz last week. She also hired a firm operating heat-seeking drones and an army of pet detectives, psychics and professional dog trackers to scour the land around her Mulholland Estates mansion. But the source told the MoS: From the beginning the fear has always been that, because of the terrain, Diamond Baby may have fallen victim to wild coyotes. There has been a record heatwave in LA and coyotes are coming into residential neighbourhoods looking for food and water. They are starving. Ms Hilton is said to have not given up hope for her Baby, which lives in a 280,000 doggie mansion and wears a 35,000 diamond-encrusted collar. Shes heartbroken but will never give up on Diamond Baby, a family friend said. Carol Vorderman looked nothing short of sensational as she shared throwback snaps of herself in white workout gear on Monday. The former Countdown presenter, 61, looked ageless as she flashed her toned midriff and ample cleavage. Carol cryptically shared that she had been working out last week 'in the heat' and while she didn't elaborate, it's believed she was in South Africa filming I'm A Celeb All Stars. Sensational: Carol Vorderman, 61, looked nothing short of sensational as she shared throwback snaps of herself in white workout gear on Monday Carol showcased her trim figure in the skimpy two piece which featured a cropped-top and matching leggings. The stunner went make-up free for the session and let her blonde tresses cascade to her shoulders in a gentle curl. She appeared to be exercising outdoors on a wooden deck with as she made the most of the fantastic weather. Mystery: Carol cryptically shared that she had been working out last week 'in the heat' and while she didn't elaborate, it's believed she was in South Africa filming I'm A Celeb All Stars Fun in the sun: Carol captioned the snaps: 'Think Im hooked on dumbbells ...One of last weeks sessions in the heat' Carol captioned the snaps: 'Think Im hooked on dumbbells ...One of last weeks sessions in the heat'. On Monday morning Carol was getting stuck into her new workout regime, flaunting her impressive abs in a crop top as she demonstrated kettlebell sequences in another video. Revealing she had joined The Gymset near her home in Clifton, Bristol, Carol gave her Insta followers a tour as she explained: 'I'm DETERMINED to stay fit and active and healthy as hell as I'm knocking on 62 years old.' Working hard: On Monday morning Carol was getting stuck into her new workout regime, flaunting her impressive abs in a crop top as she demonstrated kettlebell sequences in another video 'Been a gym goer since they started opening for women in the mid 90s. Now with my busy life being everywhere.....London, Bristol, Cardiff, West Wales, Manchester, abroad.....I want someone who will tell me what to do and when, every day.' The new spin-off series is set to hit TV screens in 2023 and will see fan favourites battle it out in the jungle once more, with presenters Ant and Dec having confirmed that they have been filming in South Africa. She will reportedly be joined by Joe Swash, Gillian McKeith, Phil Tufnell, Amir Khan, Jordan Banjo, Andrew Whyment, Dean Gaffney and Shaun Ryder with Janice Dickinson completing the line-up. According to The Sun, viewers will see a group of 15 soap stars, reality TV personalities and sporting icons enter the camp. A source said to the publication: 'It's a different format to Australia, who knows when and where celebrities will enter camp, literally anything could happen. 'It's not clear how many will start in camp or how many will be there by the end when one is crowned King or Queen of the jungle, possibly for a second time. It's the best of I'm A Celebrity, quite literally, but there's some twists and surprises along the way for viewers and campers so it's not going to be as straightforward as they might think.' MailOnline has contacted a representative for ITV for comment. Davina McCall showed off her incredible physique after an appearance on The One Show at the BBC's Broadcasting House in London on Monday. The television presenter, 54, wore a figure-hugging black leather dress which clung to her flat stomach and slender legs. Former Big Brother host Davina's garment featured a low-cut neckline and a split at the back of the hem. Looking good: Davina McCall, 54, showed off her incredible physique after an appearance on The One Show at the BBC's Broadcasting House in London on Monday She was seen chatting to the programme's host Alex Jones, 45, in the studio, with the broadcaster wearing a navy blue jumper and bright red trousers. The pair shared an embrace before Davina made her departure from the studio. It comes after Davina said she is experiencing a 'second spring' after the changing responsibilities that have come with getting older have enabled her to go out with her friends into the small hours once again. Edgy sense of style: The television presenter wore a figure-hugging black leather dress which clung to her flat stomach and slender legs The star has spoken openly about ageing and going through the menopause, and she says as her children Holly, 21, Tilly, 19, and Chester, 16, get older, she has been able to get back in touch with her more youthful side. She told woman&home: 'So many of my friends are going out dancing again. I used to, maybe once a year, but now I go out a lot and get home at 2am. 'I can sleep until 10am because my kids sleep until midday, and I enjoy it. Famous friends: She was seen chatting to the programme's host Alex Jones, 45, in the studio, with the broadcaster wearing a navy blue jumper and bright red trousers Goodbye, my friend: The pair shared an embrace before Davina made her departure from the studio 'Its like being given a new lease of life. The Chinese call it the second spring and thats a really nice concept. You dont ever need to become old. 'I think theres been a shift in expectations from society about women of a certain age. There is no "certain" age any more. We can do whatever we want.' Davina said the menopause was an amazing rebirth for her, adding 'we all owe it to younger women to go out there and live our best lives'. New start: It comes after Davina said she is experiencing a 'second spring' as her responsibilities change as she gets older It comes after Davina opened up about feeling 'unattractive' while suffering from severe menopause symptoms. The screen star who now takes HRT to help manage her symptoms, recalled when she was suffering from night sweats, dry skin and brain fog and admitted she didn't 'feel sexy' anymore. Davina, who was perimenopause at 44, spoke to The Sun's Fabulous Magazine about how the changes to her body had an impact on her sex drive as she was constantly 'exhausted' from waking up in the night as a result of her symptoms. Out on the town: The star says she is now able to go out with her friends into the small hours once again as her children become more responsible Davina told the publication: 'I lost something of myself. I changed. I couldn't quite pinpoint how I'd changed, but I'd definitely changed. I didn't feel myself. 'I felt spectacularly unattractive during my sweaty nights and my sore, dry vagina and my dry skin and my brain fog. None of this made me feel sexy. 'Being menopausal can be a very lonely place. You can start feeling like you are the only person in the world who feels this way, and that no one understands what you are going through.' Luxe Listings Sydney star D'Leanne Lewis has welcomed a baby girl after deciding to have a third child on her own at the age of 50. The celebrity real estate agent, who had her first child at 42, gave birth to daughter Lyra Yvonne Lewis at Prince of Wales Private Hospital last Tuesday at 5:20pm. D'Leanne, who underwent IVF with the help of a sperm donor, was in labour for 10 hours and said it was a 'relatively peaceful delivery'. Luxe Listings Sydney star D'Leanne Lewis has welcomed a baby girl after deciding to have a third child on her own at the age of 50 The celebrity real estate agent, who had her first child at 42, gave birth to daughter Lyra Yvonne Lewis (pictured) at Prince of Wales Private Hospital last Tuesday at 5:20pm She announced her child's arrival on Instagram, posting a slideshow of photos from her pregnancy leading up to going into labour. The gallery included pictures of D'Leanne in hospital cradling her newborn alongside Sydney obstetrician Dr Rahul Sen. 'Hello World! Meet Lyra Yvonne Lewis, my little miracle. Born after 10 hours' labour on 27/9/22 at 5.20pm,' she wrote in the caption. D'Leanne, who underwent IVF with the help of a sperm donor, was in labour for 10 hours and said it was a 'relatively peaceful delivery' She announced her child's arrival on Instagram, posting a slideshow of photos from her pregnancy leading up to going into labour. (Pictured with obstetrician Dr Rahul Sen) 'Hello World! Meet Lyra Yvonne Lewis, my little miracle. Born after 10 hours' labour on 27/9/22 at 5.20pm,' she wrote on Instagram. 'Mum and bub doing well. Thank you, Dr Sen, for a beautiful and (relatively) peaceful delivery' 'Mum and bub doing well. Thank you, Dr Sen, for a beautiful and (relatively) peaceful delivery. #heartsoverflowing #blessed.' It comes after D'Leanne revealed on the Women's Health's Uninterrupted podcast in July that people thought she was 'crazy' to have another baby in her fifties. 'It's much bloody harder. It's a little bit mental,' she said of the fertility process. It comes after D'Leanne revealed on the Uninterrupted podcast in July that people thought she was 'crazy' to have another baby in her fifties. (Pictured with her daughters Nava and Myka) 'Look, my IVF doctor said, "If you don't do it now, then you won't be able to because they won't inseminate after 51."' D'Leanne, the Principal of Laing & Simmons Double Bay, said at the time she was having a good pregnancy but still had 'concerns' because she was going it alone. She revealed her unborn child won't have 'a present father', having chosen to go down the sperm donor route. D'Leanne (left, with a friend) said at the time she was having a good pregnancy but still had 'concerns' because she was going it alone 'I decided to do this because I was very determined to have this baby on my own and I did not want any dramas,' she said. 'Obviously, having the sperm donor, there isn't going to be a present father, but she's got two godfathers and four godmothers.' D'Leanne announced her pregnancy in April. The principal of Laing & Simmons Double Bay announced her pregnancy in April She posted a video on Instagram of her growing bump as she explained to her daughters Nava and Myka they were going to have another brother or sister She posted a video on Instagram of her growing bump as she explained to her daughters Nava and Myka they were going to have another brother or sister. 'My little family is growing and I couldn't be happier,' she wrote in the caption. During her time on the Amazon Prime series, D'Leanne said being a woman in a male-dominated industry meant she had to work 'three times as hard' to succeed. During her time on the Amazon Prime series, D'Leanne said being a woman in a male-dominated industry meant she had to work 'three times as hard' to succeed She revealed she was once told she could never work in top-tier real estate because she was a woman and 'too young'. 'I thought, "Well, that's bulls**t", and now I am number one in my company and I've been number one for the last 18 years,' she proudly said on the show. 'I've had to work twice, three times as hard to show that I'm absolutely capable. 'I thought, "Well, that's bulls**t", and now I am number one in my company and I've been number one for the last 18 years,' she proudly said '[Managers] were like, "No girls are going to do real estate; you're too young." It was so misogynistic. It was crazy.' D'Leanne continued: 'You can have the confidence of 100 men, but if you don't have the results it counts for nothing.' 'I have been called a Rottweiler in heels, but I don't think I'm a pooch. I'm certainly not a Rottweiler,' she added with a laugh. Paris Hilton took to Instagram to share that she is InStyle Spain's October issue cover girl on Monday. Captioning the three-image carousel post, she wrote, 'Versace Barbie my new @instyle magazine cover is out now! Thank you @MorelliBrothers for killing it with this beautiful shoot. I had so much fun and can't wait to shoot again soon!' Hilton proudly displayed the scintillating cover featuring her in a pale bubble gum pink body hugging minidress with a plunging neckline. The 41-year-old beauty modeled a silky $7395 Versace Medusa Corset Mini Dress that showed off her toned arms and flawless neckline. Stunning: Paris Hilton took to Instagram to share that she is InStyle Spain's October issue cover girl on Monday For the cover shot, the beauty accessorized the outfit with a golden hued oversized crystal floating choker with giant Swarovski gemstones. Her necklace matched her shiny bracelet and ring as she let her blonde locks fall naturally down her back with a part in the middle. The impressive magazine spread showed off her perfect physique in a series of looks, one of which is a striking image of the beauty posing on the side of the Eiffel tower. On Sunday, Paris shared a playful and festive video looking amazing in her favorite Halloween past costumes: rising pheonix, playboy bunny, sliving gladiator, raver furby, mrs. aquarius and tinkerbell. Sister love: One week ago, Nicky Hilton posted images of her and her sister Paris at the Versace show on her Instagram, 'Loved our sister trip & watching PH close the @Versace show was def the highlight! ' 'October is finally here! Halloween is my favorite time of year because I love playing dress up (and because I love eating candy) What do you guys think I should be this year? #ThatsHot #ThatsSpooky #SpookySzn' This comes after Paris announced she has spoken to multiple pet mediums in search of her missing dog Diamond Baby. The DJ revealed on Instagram she has enlisted the help of several professional clairvoyants to aid in finding her precious Chihuahua who has been missing since September 14. Bad news came on Friday when it was announced that the search for Diamond Baby had ended in tragedy as experts believe the small dog was snatched by a hungry coyote. Life of the party: Paris performed at the event wearing the same sparkly pink dress and added matching rhinestone-studded pink DJ headphones as she owned the wheels of steel Over the last two weeks, Paris has attended both Fashion Week events in New York and Milan, where she walked the runway for Versace's Spring/Summer 2023 show wearing a pink bridal dress. Last week the runway model posted an image of herself with Donatella Versace at the show with the caption, 'Thank you @Donatella_Versace for having me close your @Versace runway show in Milan. It was such an honor and a dream come true!Such an iconic and special night! Love you, you are such an inspiration to me and I admire you so much. I love spending time with you and I can't wait to do more together soon! #MFW' Paris performed at the event wearing the same sparkly pink dress and added matching rhinestone-studded DJ headphones as she owned the wheels of steel. Supermodel sisters: Paris and Nicky posed together at the Versace runway show in Milan last week Hilton and her husband, Carter Reum, 41, traveled throughout Europe for much of the summer and spent a considerable amount of time in the romantic lakeside town of Portofino, Italy. Reum used his iPhone to capture stills of the toned, tan blonde beauty. The duo who married in November 2021 hosting a lavish star-studded event have never looked more connected and in love. The couple is coming up on their one-year wedding anniversary in November. The high-profile duo keeps the spark alive by spending time together as they travel. US doesnt see Ukraine as NATO ally, but as de facto cannon fodder Global Times) 15:38, October 03, 2022 US,Ukraine. Illustration: Chen Xia/GT Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Friday local time he would pursue fast-track NATO membership, yet the application failed to draw enthusiasm from the US. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan articulated that it was not the right time for Ukraines admission to the alliance and the application should be taken up at a different time. His underlying message was: The US does not need Ukraine as a NATO member, but needs Ukraine, rather than the whole of NATO, to fight against Russia. To make his message clearer, Sullivan continued that he believed the best way to help Ukraine is to provide practical assistance on the ground. On Saturday, Zelensky thanked US President Joe Biden for signing a bill that will provide more than $12 billion in additional funding for Ukraine. The US wont cease sending strategic assistance to Ukraine. But whether or not to soon absorb the country into NATO is another story. The value of Ukraine as a pawn has not yet been fully exploited by the US. Before Russia is exhausted by the war, the US will have no appetite to end the crisis, or stop taking advantage of Ukraine. All Washington cares about is its security architecture built in Europe in the 30 years after the fall of the Soviet Union. Clues can be found that when everyone is led to believe the NATO and Ukraine are strong partners, Ukraine is the one that literally keeps bleeding. If now is not the right time to consider Ukraines NATO membership, when will the appropriate time be? NATO has its criteria for those who apply for membership, including the clause that candidates must pursue the peaceful settlement of territorial and ethnic disputes. But Ukraine has been trapped in an ethnic conflict for a long time at home. Worse still, it is now in a war. It would also be naive to believe that the right timing will come after the end of the war. Despite the war being highly unlikely to end any time soon, NATO has a clear standard when it comes to expansion to gain more advantage, rather than taking on a burden. Only when Ukraine develops itself into a stable and prosperous country without conflict both at home and broad will it be the realistic timing for it to become a NATO member. On the other hand, observers also note that there is another scenario in which NATO could grant Ukraine the NATO membership in a fast-track manner. If a war breaks out between Russia and NATO, the latter may soon take in countries that could fight Russia on the frontline. Again, it is all about whether the US can make use of Ukraine. This is a scenario with very little chance of occurring. But once it does take place, all European countries will tremble under the shadow of a possible nuclear war. In that case, there will be no security for anyone, not for Ukraine, and not for the world. Instead of pursuing resolutions to end the conflict, Washington has, over and over again, displayed that the US is charging toward the other direction fanning the flames of war. Americas fully prepared with our NATO allies to defend every single inch of NATO territory. Every single inch, Biden said on Friday. Apparently he did not realize the irony when he stressed every inch. It only reminds people of the pledge then US secretary of state James Baker made to then Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev NATO will move not one inch eastward. Just as a reminder, Bidens tough stance has nothing to do with Ukraine. He was talking about NATOs territory. And Ukraines latest application to become a NATO member in a fast-track manner has just been declined. That being said, Bidens rhetoric is about ensuring that the conflict burns longer on the European continent to make the US the ultimate winner. As for Ukraine, Washington keeps signaling that the US has offered weapons and assistance, and it is Ukraine that must fight to the end. Whether the conflict will spiral out of control is everyones concern. For Ukraine, it may believe its way out is joining NATO. We are de facto allies Ukraine is applying to make it de jure, Zelensky said. But the US does not think so. It just wants Ukraine to be de facto bullet bait, period. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji) Australian model Jordan Barrett has been caught editing his own 'candid' paparazzi photos before posting them on Instagram. Last month, the 25-year-old posted a GC Images paparazzi shot that showed him chatting to his photographer friend Gray Sorrenti on the streets of New York City. In the original image, which is publicly accessible via the Getty website, Barrett stands side-on with one hand resting on Sorrenti's shoulder, while she glances at the camera with her abs on display in a crop top. Australian model Jordan Barrett has been caught editing his own 'candid' paparazzi photos before posting them on Instagram. This image, showing Barrett (left) and his friend Gray Sorrenti (right), was doctored to make his chin appear thinner and her abs less defined Thanks to some heavy-handed editing, Barrett managed to distort his side profile so dramatically that he looked like a completely different person. In Barrett's version, his chin is warped to appear thinner while his neck appears noticeably slimmer and longer, giving him an almost alien-like appearance. Sorrenti also fell victim to her friend's clumsy Photoshopping, as her abs appear to have been edited to look less defined in Barrett's doctored image. In the original image (left), which is publicly accessible via the Getty website, Barrett stands side-on with one hand resting on Sorrenti's shoulder, while she glances at the camera with her abs on display in a crop top. Thanks to some heavy-handed editing (right), Barrett managed to distort his side profile so dramatically that he looked like a completely different person Sorrenti also fell victim to her friend's clumsy Photoshopping, as her abs appear to have been edited to look less defined in Barrett's doctored image. (Barrett's edits are circled in red) Instagram watchdog account Problematic Fame uploaded both versions of the image on Tuesday, alongside several other examples of Barrett uploading edited versions of paparazzi pictures on social media. In 2017, he shared a doctored photo of himself posing with French fashion editor Carine Roitfeld at Paris Fashion Week. In Barrett's version, his and Roitfeld's skin appeared smoother and line-free, while their face structures were digitally enhanced to look more youthful. In 2017, he shared a doctored photo of himself posing with French fashion editor Carine Roitfeld at Paris Fashion Week (original version seen on the left). In Barrett's version (right), his and Roitfeld's skin appeared smoother and line-free, while their face structures were digitally enhanced to look more youthful Barrett even made sure to smooth out the visible veins from the pair's hands. That same year, Barrett also posted edited versions of paparazzi photos showing him chatting with photographer Mario Testino and supermodel Candice Swanepoel at a fashion show in New York City. In the doctored photo, Barrett smoothed out everyone's skin and even gave Swanepoel slightly larger breasts. That same year, Barrett also posted edited versions of paparazzi photos showing him chatting with photographer Mario Testino and supermodel Candice Swanepoel at a fashion show in New York City. (Left: the original photo, and right: the version Barrett uploaded to Instagram) In the doctored photo, Barrett smoothed out everyone's skin and even gave Swanepoel slightly larger breasts. (Barrett's edits are circled in red) Barrett was first scouted by a talent agent while he was stealing matches from a Byron Bay supermarket at age 13. He has gone on to become one of the world's most in-demand models. The catwalk king has been at the centre of surgery speculation in the past, with rumours swirling in 2016 that he'd enlisted a surgeon to give him a more defined jawline. He has never commented on such claims, but has experimented with his look over the years, sporting edgy peroxide-blond hairstyles, quirky glasses and even a mullet. Barrett was first scouted by a talent agent while he was stealing matches from a Byron Bay supermarket at age 13. (He is pictured here at age 15) The catwalk king has been at the centre of surgery speculation in the past, with rumours swirling in 2016 that he'd enlisted a surgeon to give him a more defined jawline. (Seen in 2016) She recently surprised fans when she stepped out holding an IGET Bar vape. But Phoebe Burgess left the device at home as she enjoyed some family time with her two children, Poppy and Billy, and mother Sarah Hooke in Sydney on Sunday. The journalist-turned-influencer looked stylish for the outing - wearing a striped blue and white long sleeve T-shirt and a midi skirt. Phoebe Burgess enjoyed a wholesome day out with her two children and her mother Sarah Hooke in Sydney on Sunday She teamed the summery ensemble with $550 Camilla + Marc sandals and designer sunglasses. The 33-year-old was glowing in bronzed makeup and her short blonde bob was expertly blow waved. Phoebe recently revealed she could 'write a book on celibacy' because she's the 'most boring woman in Australia' after giving up sex and booze. The former WAG added on her podcast Under the Gloss that she 'misses sex' but has revaluated her relationship since her divorce. The journalist-turned-influencer looked stylish for the outing - wearing a stripped blue and white long sleeve T-shirt and a midi skirt In May, the mother-of-two revealed she's not had sex since her bitter split from her NRL star husband Sam in 2019. In the chat with podcaster Felicity Harley, the beauty director of Body & Soul, and Alison Izzo, she's revealed she's still not slept with anyone. 'I could write the book on celibacy,' she said. 'Earlier this year celibacy started trending on social media, attracting more than a billion views on TikTok. 'People said abstaining from sex by choice gives them a clear mind. She teamed the summery ensemble with $550 Camilla + Marc sandals and designer sunglasses If that's the case, I'm the clearest woman in Australia!' She added that she 'misses sex'. 'Am I the most boring woman in Australia?' she joked before explaining she doesn't have sex or drink alcohol because she 'doesn't know where she fits on the spectrum'. 'Alcohol pops up, it's a really important part of Aussie culture. 'And it makes people really uncomfortable, when you don't drink, people think you're on the other end that you have a problem with drinking'. In May, Phoebe confessed she was emerging from her cocoon as a 'horny butterfly' after years of not dating. 'I've never been one for casual sex, I've never had a one-night stand before,' Phoebe admitted during the lively chat on her podcast. She said the last time she was dating 'Tinder wasn't a thing' so she has been forced to deal with the world of technology. '[Do I put on my Tinder profile] Single, 33, living with my parents, two kids, a bit of emotional baggage. So sexy right. Call me boys,' Phoebe joked. Phoebe recently revealed she could 'write a book on celibacy' because she's the 'most boring woman in Australia' after giving up sex and booze Phoebe's ex husband Sam appeared on the last season of SAS Australia where he admitted infidelity with a woman in Melbourne in 2017. The couple married in 2015, separated in late 2018 and resumed their relationship in early 2019. They split permanently on October 2 that year and later divorced. The former couple share daughter Poppy, four, and Billy, two. Home and Away star Sarah Roberts has spoken about her deep friendship with her former co-star Sam Frost. Sam recently supported Sarah at the Melbourne premiere of her Wog Boys Forever film, with the pair pictured cuddling up at the event. 'Sammy's such a beautiful friend of mine. She's one of my best friends, she's always been there for me,' Sarah told Yahoo. . Home and Away star Sarah Roberts has spoken about her deep friendship with her former co-star Sam Frost The brunette beauty, who portrayed Willow Harris on the long-running soap, said the pair always support each other and their projects. 'I miss her a lot because she's living down in Melbourne now, and I'm still up in Sydney. I love to get the chance to see her whenever I can,' she added. The brunette beauty, who portrayed Willow Harris on the long-running soap, said the pair always support each other and their projects Sarah said while she loved working on Home and Away, she had wanted to start leaving the dramatic storylines behind for more comedic roles, like in Wog Boy. 'I really wanted to do a comedy,' she said. 'My character (in Wog Boy) is sort of the truth throughout the whole film. And I'm in a lot of the scenes with the boys, and it was really hard to keep a straight face on set.' 'I miss her a lot because she's living down in Melbourne now, and I'm still up in Sydney. I love to get the chance to see her whenever I can,' she added Sarah was recently forced to deny she had broken up with her husband, James Stewart. 'We're happy,' she told Now to Love at the weekend. Rumours of a split ignited when Stewart was notably absent from the premiere of his wife's latest film, Wog Boys Forever, in Melbourne. Sarah was recently forced to deny she had broken up with her husband, James Stewart Sarah told the publication James, 46, was romantic as ever, even picking her up from the airport with a bouquet of flowers following her recent trip to Italy. 'He picked me up from the airport last week, when I landed from Tuscany, with a big bouquet of pink tulips,' she said. 'I've been sick lately and he's been gorgeous. He's been looking after me with chicken soup and foot rubs. An Australian woman on holiday in America was surprised when a man asked her out on a date by leaving a note on her car windshield. Shelby Mills, a former Love Island contestant from Queensland, said this type of approach would never happen Down Under, but admitted she respected the man's 'hustle'. The 28-year-old shared a photo on Instagram of the note, which was scrawled on a napkin after the man had spotted her in Los Angeles. Queensland woman Shelby Mills (pictured) was surprised when an American man asked her out on a date by leaving a note on her car windshield while she was on holiday in Los Angeles The note read: 'IDK [I don't know] if you like black guys but your [sic] fine shawty. Let me wine and dine you, no BS. I work two jobs and I drive.' 'Text me if your [sic] interested,' he added before sharing his number, which Ms Mills covered with her hand. She captioned her photo of the note: 'Hahaha finding notes on your car. I love America. Respect the hustle.' Ms Mills, an OnlyFans model, is on holiday in California after a sun-soaked summer in Europe followed by trips to New York and Alaska. The former Love Island star said this type of approach would never happen Down Under, but admitted she respected the man's 'hustle'. The note (pictured) read: 'IDK if you like black guys but your [sic] fine shawty. Let me wine and dine you, no BS. I work two jobs and I drive. Text me' Ms Mills is certainly no wallflower when it comes to social media, and is one of Australia's biggest earners on OnlyFans Ms Mills is certainly no wallflower when it comes to social media, and is one of Australia's biggest earners on OnlyFans. In September last year, she came clean about her cosmetic work, admitting to having undergone rhinoplasty, lip filler and Botox. 'How much plastic surgery have you done besides rhinoplasty?' one follower asked her on Instagram. In September last year, she came clean about her cosmetic work, admitting to having undergone rhinoplasty, lip filler and Botox 'Just my nose, haven't had any other plastic surgery apart from fillers,' she answered. 'I have filler in my lip and Botox, that's about it, but that's not plastic surgery, so...' Ms Mills shot to fame in 2018 on the first season of Love Island Australia. Since making it big on OnlyFans, she has bought a $2million waterfront home on the Gold Coast. She's known for her risque outfit choices and not holding back when it comes to fashion. But Amanda Holden, 51, has revealed it's not quite the same story when it comes to her 16-year-old daughter, Lexi - admitting she 'confiscates' skimpy clothing from the teen. Jesting that she will 'give them back in two years', the Britain's Got Talent judge ensures the ensembles won't go to waste as she takes them to wear herself. 'Mummy can have it: Amanda Holden, 51, has admitted that she confiscates 'skimpy' clothes away from her daughter Lexi, 16, and wears them herself Talking to The Sun, Amanda recalled taking a top from Lexi's wardrobe that the teen was planning to wear to Reading festival. She explained: 'Theres this sequinned . . . I wouldnt even call it a bikini top. My daughters 16! 'I went, "No, youre not wearing that to Reading Festival, but Mummy can have it," so Mummys got it, and waiting for a moment to wear it. 'It just about covers the bits up top that you would expect it to cover, but it was definitely not for my daughter. In two years, she can have it back.' So alike: Jesting that she will 'give them back in two years', the Britain's Got Talent judge ensures the ensembles won't go to waste as she takes them to wear herself (pictured with Lexi) Supportive: Amanda, who is also mum to Hollie, ten, says her family encourage the daring outfits she often sports And despite the ban on her daughter's wardrobe choices, the TV personality insisted that her family 'love' Amanda's daring sense of style. She is also mother to ten-year-old Hollie, and shares the girls with her record producer husband Chris Hughes. The beauty explained that her husband Chris encourages her often bold choice of outfits and says 'get your legs out'. Amanda has preivously recieved a slew of Offcom complaints for her outfit choices when judging Britain's Got Talent - with plunging necklines and cut-outs getting her into hot water with viewers. Risque: Amanda has preivously recieved a slew of Offcom complaints for her outfit choices when judging Britain's Got Talent - with plunging necklines and cut-outs getting her into hot water with viewers But earlier this year, she insisted she would not tone down her outfits, adding that she enjoys wearing latex at the auditions and said she doesn't think anyone should feel pressure to 'dress for your age'. Not letting the naysayers get to her, Amanda told the Mirror: 'I'm thinking more rubber - I enjoyed wearing latex in the auditions, so I'm thinking more latex, more sweating in the lives.' While she also told disapproving fans to 'get over it' after recieving backlash for cold weather meaning her nipples have been displayed through outfits. She explained to The Sun: 'Im just like, "Get over it". It doesnt seem to matter when you see boys nipples, so I just dont get why it matters when you can see girls. 'Its everyone else that makes the fuss about them.' Staying strong: Earlier this year, she insisted she would not tone down her outfits, adding that she enjoys wearing latex at the auditions and said she doesn't think anyone should feel pressure to 'dress for your age'. (pictured in 2020) Tory Lanez has been sued by a couple who say he sideswiped them in a New Year's Day 2021 incident in Miami, and departed the scene without making contact with them. The couple, Krisha and Jesse Grullon, said in court docs reviewed by TMZ that Lanez's green 2017 Bentley Bentaya made contact with their vehicle, then took off without making contact with them. The Grullons told the court that they had taken the exit on a highway and were stopped at a red light when Lanez's vehicle made contact with theirs on the left side, then departed without making contact. They noted that Krisha, who was driving, had been four months pregnant at the time of the incident. The latest: Tory Lanez, 30, has been sued by a couple who say he sideswiped them in a New Year's Day 2021 incident in Miami, and departed the scene without making contact with them. He was pictured in LA last month The Grullons said they want the 30-year-old rapper to be deposed early next year about the incident, according to legal docs. The couple said that Lanez failed to reply to legal docs in their case. The Grullons said that Lanez's negligence led to a number of hardships, including loss of wages, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish and loss of enjoyment of life, Radar reported, citing court docs. Andell Brown, a lawyer for the Brampton, Canada native, told TMZ Monday that the claims made by the Grullons are baseless, noting that the couple waited six months to submit any claim to Lanez's insurers. Brown said that the Grullons went out of their way to link the rapper to the case by looking up his license plate. The rapper was pictured at an event in February in LA Lanez, whose full name is Daystar Peterson, has been involved in a number of controversies, as he was accused of assaulting August Alsina in Chicago last month The attorney noted that the couple initially told them that the vehicle was silver, and amended the statement to say it was green in their suit over the accident. Brown said that an insurance company probe of the incident came to the conclusion 'there was no basis to the claim' made by the Grullons. Lanez is also in litigation over a separate alleged hit & run incident in January of 2021, as a man named Barry Fine claimed that a driver in a 2016 Range Rover prompted a 'chain reaction rear-end collision striking one vehicle propelling that vehicle into Plaintiffs vehicle,' Radar reported, citing legal docs. Lanez has denied the claims in the case. Lanez, whose full name is Daystar Peterson, has been involved in a number of controversies, as he was accused of assaulting August Alsina in Chicago last month. In the incident, Alsina, 30, said the run-in took place after a show in Chicago in which Lanez was backed up by 'eight oversized security' guards. Alsina said Lanez was upset he hadn't acknowledged him in the past, and sucker punched him. Lanez denied the allegations, claiming he was working on new music at the time. Lanez was fired from the Fall Back In Love Comedy & Music Jam tour in connection with the alleged incident. He has also been in court linked to a July 2020 incident in Los Angeles in which he's accused on injuring Megan Thee Stallion by shooting a firearm in her direction and causing bodily injury to her. Andrew Lloyd Webber is bringing another show to Broadway as he prepares to say goodbye to The Phantom Of The Opera. The musical theater icon, 74, announced Monday that his retooled version of Cinderella will land in New York at the Imperial Theatre in February with new songs, a new leading lady and a new title. Bad Cinderella - borrowing the title from a key song in the show rather than using London West End's blander name Cinderella - will star Linedy Genao in the title role. New show! Andrew Lloyd Webber is bringing Bad Cinderella to Broadway with actress Linedy Genao cast in the starring role She's had ensemble roles in Dear Evan Hansen and On Your Feet! Carrie Hope Fletcher played the title character in London. Lloyd Webber hopes his fairy tale has a better ending on Broadway than it did in London, where Cinderella closed less than a year after opening and suffered heavy losses, particularly when COVID-19 scrambled its run. The stage musical features a brand new score from Lloyd Webber with a book by Emerald Fennell and lyrics by David Zippel. JoAnn M. Hunter choreographs with direction by Laurence Connor. She's the star: Dear Evan Hansen actress Linedy Genao has been casting in the leading role Did not live happily ever after: Lloyd Webber hopes his fairy tale has a better ending on Broadway than it did in London, where Cinderella closed less than a year after opening and suffered heavy losses, particularly when COVID-19 scrambled its run; Cinderella pictured in 2016 'I am thrilled and delighted that we are bringing Bad Cinderella to the Imperial Theatre. We have been working hard on a few new songs for our Broadway opening and, with such brilliant team, led by the spectacular Linedy, I know this is going to be really special,' Lloyd Weber said in a press release, according to People. Genao gushed about the opportunity in the statement where she described her lifelong dream of originating a starring role on Broadway. 'I have been dreaming about originating a leading role on Broadway for just about my entire life, but never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine achieving that dream alongside Andrew Lloyd Webber and such an incredible team of collaborators. New music! The stage musical features a brand new score from Lloyd Webber with a book by Emerald Fennell and lyrics by David Zippel Broadway legend: Lloyd Webber is closing his The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway in 2023 'As a proud Dominican American, I am most excited about this opportunity to represent my community and show the world that fairy tales do come true and are for everybody. My heart is bursting.' Lloyd Webber is closing his The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway in 2023. A fixture on Broadway since 1988, it will close Feb. 18, a day after previews begin for Bad Cinderella, meaning a Lloyd Webber musical will have been performing on Broadway every single playing night since September 1979. ISTANBUL (AP) - Vladimir Putins military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. Niki Proshin, 28, left St. Petersburg last week, part of a torrent of Russian men escaping their homeland following Putin's Sept. 21 declaration of a "partial mobilization" for the war in Ukraine. The Russian military call-up came as some Russian troops have been forced to retreat amid a Ukrainian counteroffensive. "Last week changed everything for hundreds of thousands of other people who decided to leave Russia," he said. "The main reason is the danger of being drafted into the Russian army." Turkey, which has maintained air links with Russia while other countries blocked flights and does not impose visa restrictions on Russian visitors, has been a popular destination for those leaving for "any place" they can reach. Turkish officials have not released data on how many Russians may have arrived in Turkey to flee the draft, but Russia is close to the top of a list of countries that sends tourists to Turkey, after Germany. Some 3 million Russians have visited the country so far this year. Turkish media have also reported an increase in the number of Russians purchasing or renting houses in Turkey. A "Russians Against War" poster hangs inside the home of Eva Rapoport, the Istanbul coordinator for The Ark, a group helping Russians fleeing their country, in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) The NATO-member country, which relies on Russia for its energy needs and tourism, has not joined U.S. and EU sanctions against Moscow. It has tried to balance its relations with both Russia and Ukraine, positioning itself as a mediator between the two. Proshin, a YouTube vlogger originally from the Siberian city of Omsk, said setbacks on the battlefield in Ukraine had eroded Russian support for the war, even among "patriotic" Russians. "Right now, when the Russian army is having some trouble and the Ukrainian army is pushing them out of their lands, people who were supporting this war are saying they dont understand why this war is happening," he said. "They dont want this war and they dont want to lose their friends, husbands, brothers or themselves in this useless war." Proshin said his family were "very relieved" that he left Russia and now plans to wait for his girlfriend to join him before leaving for another country. Eva Rapoport, the Istanbul coordinator for The Ark, a group helping Russians fleeing their country, said there had been a significant increase in the numbers arriving in Turkey since Putin's mobilization declaration. While those who left Russia in the immediate aftermath of its February invasion of Ukraine were a "well-educated, Western-oriented, cosmopolitan crowd," now her organization was seeing "just about everyone who can escape the country." "Many of these people used to support Putin, they used to cheer for the war," she said. "When it was from the safety of their homes and there was nothing at stake for them it was fine. But now they dont want to support this by their actions. "They dont want to support it with their lives. They dont want to go and fight and die in this war." Still, she described the decision by the Baltic states and Poland to block entry for such Russians as "unjust." "Its literally a life or death situation for them, its a humanitarian issue," Rapoport said. Many Russians arriving in Turkey after the start of the war were suffering from shock caused by the invasion, she said, as well as difficulties in finding a place to live or ways to pay for goods due to sanctions on the Russian finance sector. "Everyone was discussing symptoms of psychological distress. They could not eat, could not sleep and could not focus," she said. New arrivals in Istanbul described the situation in Russia as "rapidly deteriorating," and many feared being trapped. "If you stay, you may never be able to leave, and if you want to (leave) you better act fast," she explained. Likening the situation to the aftermath of Russias 1917 revolution, when hundreds of thousands of "white Russians" found refuge in Istanbul while fleeing the Bolsheviks, Rapoport said those fleeing felt they no longer had a future in their homeland. Maxim Bocharov, 38, is one of those disillusioned with Putins Russia. Speaking at an anti-war demonstration near the Russian consulate in Istanbul, he said he had taken part in protests against the invasion of Ukraine when he was still in Moscow. "This mobilization was the last step for me," the former sales manager said. "I want to say to the Ukrainian people that not every Russian is like a brainwashed zombie." His new life in Istanbul, where he landed two days after the draft announcement, is a blessing. "Its the first time in my life when I feel myself being really free," he said. ___ Follow all AP stories on the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine. Russian YouTube vlogger Niki Proshin, 28, doing a livestream via a mobile phone, in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) Russian YouTube vlogger Niki Proshin, 28, shoots a video log for his YouTube channel while wandering next to the historic Ortakoy Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) Russian former sales manager and anti-war activist Maxim Bocharov, 38, stands for a photograph next to an anti-war demonstration near the Russian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) Protesters attend a demonstration against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) Protesters attend a demonstration against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) The Istanbul coordinator for The Ark, a group helping Russians fleeing their country, Eva Rapoport, works in her home in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) The Istanbul coordinator for The Ark, a group helping Russians fleeing their country, Eva Rapoport, looks on during an interview with The Associated Press in her home in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. Vladimir Putin's military draft "changed everything" for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the Russian leader's mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra) The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) celebrated the traditional St Matthews Mass on Wednesday 28 September, 2022 at the St Louis Cathedral, Port Louis. This mass is an annual event which is celebrated in remembrance of the Patron Saint of Customs and Tax Officials. The theme for this year is: St Matthews teaches us that God is always with us. The Director-General of the MRA, Mr. Sudhamo Lal, Father Labour, the Vicar General of the Diocese of Port Louis, Father Gregoire, Pandit Pramod Kumar Shamjhu, members of the MRA Management Team and MRA staff participated in the celebration which started at 09h30. In his address, Mr. Sudhamo Lal explained that the St. Matthews Annual Mass is an opportunity is to pay homage to the Patron Saint. A collective prayer is organised every year at the St. Louis Cathedral. A similar event will be celebrated at the Shri Kannanur Mariamen Kovil, Albion Dock in the weeks to come. The MRA family gathers itself in those holy places to seek the blessings of God to pursue with devotion and dedication the various tasks assigned to its members. Mr. Sudhamo Lal conveyed his deep gratitude to the members of the Organising Committee for having coordinated this event. Our role as taxman, if played correctly and honestly can guarantee us of our salvation. On his part, Father Gregoire expounded that in any religious tradition, theres always two forces: good or bad. And we are instruments of God so we should fight against the evil. Also present in the event, Pandit Pramod Kumar Shamjhu, MRA Customs Officer, stressed on the unity of religion. He stressed the importance of paying homage to God and soliciting the blessings of Lord Krishna and Mother Doorga during this very auspicious period of Govinden and Navratree. Christian David, Coordinator of the Organising Committee, stated in his address that the job of a tax collector is subject to hardships. This was true at the times of St Matthew and is equally true today. We have to seek the blessing of God to conduct our task with love and diligence. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires Free Event The City of Dayton Halloween Fall Harvest Festival drive-thru event at Kettering Field - October 31, 2022 6-8pm See more Beggar's Night times. DAYTON FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL Dayton's family-friendly Fall Harvest event returns Monday, Oct. 31 at Kettering Field Complex, 444 N. Bend Blad., Dayton, OH 45404. This is a drive-thru event. Children must be present to receive candy. Line starts at 5.30 and ends at 7.30 * while supplies last. This event will happen regardless of the weather. Dayton trick or treat: Beggar's Night in Dayton will occur on Monday, Oct. 31, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Not only celebrities, powerful and rich people but even upper middle class folks are spending lakhs of rupees in auctions for their desired fancy number for their cars. (Photo: PTI) HYDERABAD: Superstitions and a VIP culture of flaunting ones power, money and status are driving unabated, without a brake, or a speed breaker, the craze to acquire fancy numbers for not only expensive cars, but even humble motorcycles and two-wheelers. Surprisingly, not one person in the hi-tech technology city of Hyderabad wants 1729 the most magical of four-digit numbers also called math genius Srinivasa Ramanujans number. Not only celebrities, powerful and rich people but even upper middle class folks are spending lakhs of rupees in auctions for their desired fancy number for their cars. Predictably, politicians and the film fraternity lead the pack, and are responsible for making the trend ubiquitous. People in risky careers like politics, films and business believe in their lucky number, said Jayashankarr Sistlaa, Astro Numerologist. If there is a strong reiteration of that number around them, including in their car or mobile number, calculated correctly, using numerological principles and factoring in their core number, drawn from their name and date of birth, it can enhance their luck factor. Sistlaa, who consults for several leading celebrities in not only Hyderabad but across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, said, Your name number is a driving force. Numbers are associated with planetary movements. The correct numbers can enhance luck and augment your chances of success. But it should be a proper number which has to match with your name as well as your date of birth. Little wonder, Mega Star Chiranjeevi Konidela, is particular about the number of his car 1111 which he retains for his current pair of hot wheels a Rolls Royce Phantom. It has been his consistent vehicle number for a long time. There is a surge of demand to acquire fancy numbers at the Road Transport Authority (RTA) for these magic numerical figures, which often cost a bomb. But for its bidders at the auction, spending a fortune for their desired number is no dampener. According to J. Pandurang Naik, District Transport Officer and Joint Transport Commissioner, only last week, a vehicle owner from this city spent Rs 13.50 lakh to acquire the most magical and most sought after numbers 9999 for his registration. Tollywood superstar Jr NTR, who still holds a record for the highest ever bid so far for this number 9999 he spent around Rs 17 lakh. He said, The demand for desired numbers peaks amongst Hyderabadis, especially in the Khairatabad RTA zone, since several top shots of the state reside in this zone. For reserving any desired number, one has to pay a minimum fee of `2,000 for two-wheelers and `5,000 for four-wheelers. For special numbers like 1, 9, 999, 9999 the initial bidding starts from Rs 50,000 and can shoot to the sky. But it is not only VIP culture or numerological considerations that drive this urge to shell out big bucks and get a desired number. It can also be sycophancy or an urge for identity. Once upon a time, when late chief minister Dr Y.S. Rajashekara Reddy used to have 2345 as his number, there was a surge of demands for it. Similarly, since Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao uses 6666, there is a huge surge in demand for this number, especially within the ruling TRS circles. For some, it might just be a habit, or sense of comfort. P. Kiran, renowned Telugu movie producer, who gave the industry memorable hits like Anthapuram, Shanker dada MBBS and Venkatadri Express, and is now ready with Ahimsa, said, my car number 1558 has remained the same, I dont call it superstation, neither is it a fancy number. Throughout my journey, from my first car onwards, I carry forward this number. In my future vehicles too, I will be using the same number. Of course, not everyone has to pay the big monies but still like their fancy number. For government top brass, if a GO is issued allocating a desired number for their vehicles, which are government-owned, that number is automatically allotted to them. The RTA also reserves a number of their choice for judicial officials and judges, because there is a GO which gives them their desired number, another RTA official explained. Several clients check with an Astro Numerologist like Jayashankarr Sistlaa before deciding on their ideal number. During my research in this subject for the last 23 years, I have realised the power of numbers to influence your life, luck, career and even personal life. Every alphabet is a number, that it has to coincide with your vehicle number. For example, my phone number is 90328-05050 which I use based on calculations based on my name and date of birth to ensure I get more positive calls. Most successful people do not ignore this power. They constantly check and ensure the planetary movements and numbers they are using are aligned. he added. When asked about 1729 the number that Ramanujan declared on a hospital bed was the most magical of numbers, the smallest four digit number which could be expressed as a sum of the cubes of two different numbers the RTA department drew a blank. What kind of a number is it? There is nothing fancy about it. Most people in the silicon valley of India agree. Landslides and flash floods are being reported frequently in the foothills of Western Ghats in Dakshina Kannada (DC File Photo) MANGALURU: Environmentalists have expressed their concern over repeated disturbance to the Western Ghats, which they feel, are resulting in frequent landslides and changes in the flow of underground water. Landslides and flash floods are being reported frequently in the foothills of Western Ghats in Dakshina Kannada for the last few years. These rains bring down sludge comprising trees and a huge amount of soil with them. Activists have also noted the formation of new water bodies in a few valleys of the Western Ghats. In the last few years, there have been landslides in several places on the foothills of Western Ghats. We have also noted that the villagers have felt mild tremors before the landslide. This is because of the damage to the Western Ghats. Various projects including hydel projects, resorts, roads, dams, and mining activities, above all the Yettinahole Project, have severely damaged the ecologically sensitive area, activist and Sahyadri Sanchaya convener Dinesh Holla told Deccan Chronicle. The damage results in slight tremors during which there is a change in the inner layer. During monsoon, the rainwater gets diverted due to this change and as a result, there is a flash flood. The water carries sludge and sometimes trees from the forest. During our visit to the Ghats, we noted that a few of the water bodies have changed their course and, in some places, new water bodies are formed. If the disturbance continues then the problem will be severe in the days to come, he warned. Activists also feel that there is a need for a proper study. The government should conduct a scientific study and stop all the projects that cause damage to the Western Ghats, a villager opined. One could see the women and young girls singing the traditional Bathukamma songs at a few places and many of them dancing to DJ numbers. (DC) ADILABAD: A Gujarati song, Gajike Rime... angur ka lal... Ame Gujarati leri lala... Gujarati ne bhol bala' that praises leaders from the state like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialists Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani is the toast of Bathukamma celebrations here. There is a significant Gujarati population in the erstwhile Adilabad and Nizamabad districts. Gujarati and even North Indian celebrations have become part of the traditional Bathukamma. It is at its peak this year understandably because Assembly elections are round the corner and politicians are being organising many events. One could see the women and young girls singing the traditional Bathukamma songs at a few places and many of them dancing to DJ numbers. They were playing Bathukamma to popular garba songs like Pankhida...Ho Pankida. Vijaya, a housewife from Adilabad, said a lot of changes have taken place in the style of playing Bathukamma. Girls are showing interest in dandiya (kolatam) Bathukamma during the Navaratrulu. Unlike the elders, todays youngsters are unable to sing traditional Bathukamma songs, said Vijaya. She said that during the Telangana agitation, books on traditional Bathukamma songs were distributed to women while some Telugu magazines also published those songs so that women could sing them during Bathukamma Navaratrulu. HYDERABAD: After a 16-year protracted battle between the government and private parties, the Telangana High Court recently upheld the Special Court (Land Grabbing Cases) ruling that the land measuring 2,257 square yards at Phool Bagh of Nampally mandal in Hyderabad, which was given to the Central Revenue Department, belongs to the government. In 2005, the Special Court, while hearing an application by the tahsildar of Nampally mandal, ruled that the land belonged to the government and private parties Y. Amrutbhai and family members of Late Y. Balaiah, who had been in possession since 1949 as land grabbers. The special court also ordered them to vacate the land and pay `96,000 in compensation to the government. In 2006, the private parties approached the High Court to challenge the Special Court orders. The private parties claimed in their petition that the said land was a gift from relatives of Raja Rameshwar Rao of Wanaparthy, and that they had been living on the scheduled land for several decades. To establish their possession of the property, they produced demand notices and receipts demonstrating proof of payment of NALA tax, property tax, electricity charges, income tax, commercial tax, entry in electoral rolls, bank account statements, and so on. The state government, on the other hand, claimed ownership based on entries in the Town Survey Land Register (TSLR). Harinder Pershad, Special Counsel for the state, argued before the High Court that Raja Rameshwar Rao himself was unsuccessful in court in 1952 in obtaining rights to the aforementioned lands at Phool Bagh. Furthermore, he claimed that the Land Survey was completed in 1982, and the land was designated as Government PWD and Safayee balda. Furthermore, Harinder argued that private parties cannot claim the property without any documentary proof of obtaining the said land, only with tax payment receipts. TS Congress president A. Revanth Reddy said that the Bharat Jodo Yatra of Congress former president was aimed at undoing the damage caused by TRS and BJP (DC file Image) HYDERABAD: TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy alleged that the TRS and BJP were following the British practice of divide and rule to retain power by creating differences in society. Taking part in the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the Gandhian Ideology Centre in Bowenpally, Revanth Reddy unfurled the party flag after paying his respects to Gandhi. The establishment, also known as the Institute of Human Resources Personality Development Training Centre, was formally opened by Revanth Reddy and CLP leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on Sunday. Its campus is spread across 10 acres. Speaking on the occasion, Revanth Reddy said that the Bharat Jodo Yatra of Congress former president was aimed at undoing the damage caused by these parties over the past few years. Rahul Gandhi has taken up this yatra to expose these leaders, who are damaging the unity of the nation through their cheap set of politics. We shall be ensuring that the yatra successfully passes through Telangana, after entering (the state) on October 24, he said. Recalling Gandhis contributions and sacrifices, Revanth Reddy said, He has taught the entire orld how to fight the might of the British Empire without being armed. Besides the Quit India Movement, the strategy (of non-violence) adopted by Gandhi paved the way for Indias independence. It was through his inspiration that our first Prime Minister Nehru brought the green revolution and ended famine. It was the Congress that armed the weaker sections with equal rights in society. Former MP and PCC vice president, Mallu Ravi described the event as a memorable day. The whole world is inspired by Mahatma Gandhis ideology of peaceful coexistence. The Bharat Jodo Yatra reminds us of the pre-independent Dandi Salt Yatra. Let all of us remind ourselves of Gandhis ideology on this auspicious day. Rahul Gandhi, through Bharat Jodo Yatra, is spreading the message of Gandhis ideology and how it still remains relevant to us, Ravi said. People are confident that this bypoll will change their constituency for better as the TRS is not leaving any stone unturned to win Munugode bypoll. (Image By Arrangement) HYDERABAD: The battle lines for the Munugode byelections, scheduled for November 3, have been drawn, with the BJP, TRS and the Congress throwing in everything they have to win. The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Monday that the schedule for the bypolls will be issued on October 7, the deadline for filing nomination papers will be October 14, the nominations will be scrutinised on October 15, and the deadline for candidates to withdraw will be October 17. The by-election will be held on November 3, while counting of votes will be taken up on November 6. The district administration issued a notification imposing election code in the Munugode Assembly constituency shortly after the Election Commission announced the election schedule for the constituency. The ECI announcement came as something of a surprise, as the general expectation among political circles was that the bypoll in Telangana, along byelections to vacant Assembly seats with other states, would coincide with the Gujarat Assembly elections in December. However, with the ECI proceeding with the bypoll schedule, Telangana's three major political parties, the TRS, the BJP, and the Congress, are expected to step up their campaigns without losing further time. However, activity is expected to pick up after the Dasara celebrations on October 5. It should be noted that the bypoll was necessitated following the resignation of Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy, who was elected on a Congress ticket from the constituency. He joined the BJP after resigning and is the party's nominee for the bypoll. The Congress has named Palvai Sravanthi as its candidate, while the TRS is yet to do so formally. However, former TRS MLA from Munugode Kusukunla Prabhakar Reddy is thought to be the front-runner. Union minister G. Kishan Reddy said that by merely floating a national party, there will be little that KCR can achieve (DC File Image) HYDERABAD: The launching of a national party by TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao is nothing more than an attempt to divert the attention of the people of Telangana from the TRS governments failures in the state, Union minister G. Kishan Reddy has said. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Reddy said by merely floating a national party, there will be little that Rao can achieve other than his family members daydreaming about ruling the country. Many national parties have come and gone, and there are several without a single seat in Parliament. The one that Rao wants to launch has only one ally, the AIMIM, which he wants to help strengthen in the country, Reddy said. People of Telangana, he said, have realised how the TRS government has failed on all fronts and now they know that no national level leader wants to be associated with Chandrashekar Rao, whose national party has no takers. He also said that privately, TRS leaders themselves are questioning the need for a national party now, especially with the fast-eroding support for the TRS in the state. They are not able to make head or tail of Raos intentions, he said. Kishan Reddy, however, added that it is not leaders who will decide the fate of any party or a leader but the people when they vote. Let us wait for the next Assembly and Parliament elections. People will show who they want, he said, adding that the TRS leaderships belief that it is the only alternative to the BJP in the country is nothing more than wishful thinking. To a question on TRS allegations that the Centre wants to fix meters to all farm power connections, the Union minister dismissed the speculation saying there was no such move. HYDERABAD: A day after CLP leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka openly backed the candidature of Mallikarjun Kharge as the next AICC chief, TPCC president A. Revanth Reddy while referring to him as Telangana bidda endorsed the choice. While pointing out Kharges background, Reddy cited his familys sacrifices while fighting against Nizams rule in the erstwhile Hyderabad State. He felt that open support from party men should be seen as a positive sign. I dont have a difference of opinion on that count but since I am the PCC president I have to remain neutral. When P.V. Narasimha Rao was contesting in Nandyal Lok Sabha by-elections, the TD did not field its candidate. Since there was a chance for a Telugu to become the prime minister, NTR decided not to field anyone against Rao, he recalled at a press meet here on Monday. Former PCC president V. Hanumantha Rao also backed Kharge citing his seniority and experience. Questioning the idea of open debate by Shashi Tharoor, Rao felt that this kind of practice may be worthwhile in Western countries but in India this should be decided in a democratic manner. If Kharge leads the party, it will surely have a better future. If at all Tharoor wishes to prove himself he should win these elections, rather than ask for debates, he told DC. While demanding Tharoor to withdraw his candidature former Union minister, Dr Chinta Mohan predicted that Kharge will be the next party president. A millionaire backed by corporate houses, Tharoor seeking support is unfair. He should welcome Kharge and ensure that the party will have a dalit as its president in over 50 years, he said. Earlier on Sunday, Bhatti alleged the BJP was spoiling the prospects of Kharge by showing him as a man representing a particular caste, after it had sensed about his possible elevation as the AICC president. There is a vicious campaign against the leader who has vast experience as a politician. We welcome his candidature, he said. Hyderabad: Buoyed by the overwhelming response particularly from women in Marriguda and Chendur mandals for her door-to-door campaign, Congress candidate for Munugode by election, Palwai Sravanthi on Tuesday began her campaign in Choutuppal mandal. After starting from Jaikesaram village, Sravanthi covered scores of other villages before taking part in Bathukamma celebrations at Sarvail village in Narayanpur. Overwhelmed by the response, she described it as a wonderful sense of belonging that may help her win the election. People are showing a lot of affection wherever I am going. I was surprised to find that not only young women, but also elderly are rushing to welcome me with harathi. It seems like all the women in the village are walking with me, she told Deccan Chronicle. Bolstered by the legacy of her father, Palvai Govardhan Reddy, Sravanthi has faith in the traditional voters who recognise her. Sravanthi who started her campaign about 10 days back has also slowly started using catchy phrases while targeting her opponent from the BJP Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy. Sundays visit by TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy also boosted her morale. Hands of those who bring flowers (BJP) should be snapped and tyres of cars (TRS) should be flattened. It is high time we teach them a lesson, she said. Grain is unloaded from the cargo ship SV. Nikolay docked in Izmir, Turkey. The grain, which satellite imagery shows was loaded at the Russian-occupied Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, Crimea, was purchased by the Turkish food company Yayla Agro. (AP/Yoruk Isik) Beirut: When the bulk cargo ship Laodicea docked in Lebanon last summer, Ukrainian diplomats said the vessel was carrying grain stolen by Russia and urged Lebanese officials to impound the ship. Moscow called the allegation false and baseless, and Lebanon's prosecutor general sided with the Kremlin and declared that the 10,000 tons of barley and wheat flour wasn't stolen and allowed the ship to unload. But an investigation by the Associated Press and the PBS series Frontline has found the Laodicea, owned by Syria, is part of a sophisticated Russian-run smuggling operation that has used falsified manifests and seaborne subterfuge to steal Ukrainian grain worth at least USD 530 million cash that has helped feed President Vladimir Putin's war machine. AP used satellite imagery and marine radio transponder data to track three dozen ships making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to ports in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and other countries. The ongoing theft, which legal experts say is a potential war crime, is being carried out by wealthy businessmen and state-owned companies in Russia and Syria. Meanwhile, the Russian military has attacked farms, grain silos and shipping facilities still under Ukrainian control with artillery and air strikes, destroying food, driving up prices. The grain and flour carried by the 138-meter-long (453 feet) Laodicea likely started its journey in the southern Ukrainian city of Melitopol, which Russia seized in the early days of the war. Video posted to social media on July 9 shows a train pulling up to the Melitopol Elevator, a massive grain storage facility, with green hopper cars marked with the name of the Russian company Agro-Fregat LLC with a logo in the shape of a spike of wheat. Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov told AP the occupiers are moving vast quantities of grain from the region by train and truck to ports in Russia and Crimea, a strategic Ukrainian peninsula that Russia has illegally occupied since 2014. A July 11 satellite image shows the Laodicea tied up at a pier in Feodosia. The ship's radio transponder was turned off. Two weeks later, when it arrived at the Lebanese port city Tripoli, it claimed to be carrying grain from a small Russian port on the other side of the Black Sea. A copy of the ship's manifests obtained by AP claimed its port of origin was Kavkaz, Russia. The shipper was listed as Agro-Fregat, the same name on the train cars in Melitopol. The buyer was Loyal Agro Co Ltd., a wholesale grocer headquartered in Turkey. Agro-Fregat didn't respond to emailed questions and a phone number that had been listed on its website was out of service last week. A spokesman for Loyal Agro said the ship's cargo came from Russia. But the Laodicea couldn't have picked up its cargo in Kavkaz, the Russian port listed on the manifest. The ship's hull, which reaches 8 meters (26 feet) below the surface, would run aground in the relatively shallow port, which has a maximum depth of 5.3 meters (17.5 feet). The port in Feodosia is more than twice as deep easily able to accommodate the big ship. Another company involved in smuggling grain is United Shipbuilding Corp., a Russian state-owned defense contractor sanctioned by the United States for providing weapons to the Russian war effort. The company, through its subsidiary Crane Marine Contractor, bought three cargo ships just weeks before Putin invaded Ukraine, in a departure from its core business providing heavy lift platforms to the oil and gas industry. The three ships have made at least 17 trips between Crimea?and ports in Turkey and Syria. When AP called Crane Marine Contractor a receptionist answered by saying the company's name. A man she transferred the call to, however, insisted AP had the wrong number. You have reached the wrong place, we do not have such information, said the man, who refused to give his name. During a typical voyage in mid-June, a 170-meter-long ship (560 feet) called the Mikhail Nenashev was captured on satellite being loaded at the Russian-controlled Avlita Grain Terminal in Sevastopol, Crimea. The ship's radio transponder was turned off, a tactic often used by smugglers known as running dark." It arrived on June 25 in Dortyol, Turkey, and docked at a pier owned by MMK Metalurji, a steel producer. MMK Metalurji is controlled by Viktor Rashnikov, a Russian billionaire who is close to Putin. Rashnikov and his company have been sanctioned by the United States, European Union and United Kingdom. In an email to AP, MMK said the grain came from Russia: The place where the said cargo is loaded is PORT KAVKAZ. As with Laodicea, Nenashev's draught is too deep to dock at the Kavkaz port. Turkey helped broker an agreement between Russia and Ukraine in July to allow both countries to export grain and fertilizer through safe corridors in the Black Sea. The deal did not address the grain Russia has taken from occupied areas. Though Turkish authorities have pledged to stop illegal smuggling, Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in a June news conference his country had not found any evidence of theft. In our investigation on ships' ports and goods' origins, following claims about Turkey, we saw the origin records to be Russia, he said Whatever the records say, the smuggling operation continues. Crane Marine Contractor's ship Matros Koshka named for a Russian sailor lauded as national hero for his bravery during the Crimean War of 1854 cruised north last week into the Black Sea with a listed destination of Kavkaz before turning off its transponder and running dark. Satellite imagery taken Thursday showed the 161-meter-long ship (528 feet) had docked once again at the grain terminal in the occupied Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, little more than a mile from a Soviet-era statue honouring its namesake. India on Sunday condemned the vandalism at a recently unveiled park named 'Shri Bhagavad Gita' in Canada's Brampton and urged the authorities to investigate and take prompt action against the perpetrators of the hate crime. The park previously called Troyers Park was renamed as Shri Bhagavad Gita Park and unveiled on September 28. We condemn the hate crime at the Shri Bhagvad Gita Park in Brampton. We urge Canadian authorities & @PeelPolice to investigate and take prompt action on the perpetrators, the High Commission of India in Canada tweeted. The attack came days after another temple in Canada was vandalised. Also Read | Modi govt tacitly hits out at Canada for failing to stop 'anti-India' activities Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown on Sunday confirmed the vandalism at the park and said that Canada has "zero tolerance" for such attacks. "We are aware that the recently unveiled Shri Bhagavad Gita Park sign has been vandalized. We have zero tolerance for this. We have flagged Peel Regional Police for further investigation. Our Parks department is working to resolve and correct the sign as soon as possible," Brown tweeted on Sunday. On September 28, Mayor Brown said, "Today, the @CityBrampton unveiled the renaming of Brampton's Troyers Park to Shri Bhagavad Gita Park. Brampton is a Mosaic, and this renaming commemorates the Hindu community and all they contribute to our City. We celebrate all cultures and all faiths in our City." On September 15, a prominent Hindu temple, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, was defaced by Canadian Khalistani extremists with anti-India graffiti in an apparent hate crime. Last month, India issued an advisory to its citizens in Canada warning of increased hate crimes. The Indian Air Force (IAF) Monday scrambled its Su-30MKI jets after the force was informed about a "bomb scare" on board an Iranian aircraft that was flying to China through the Indian airspace. "IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled. They followed the aircraft at a safe distance. The aircraft was offered the option to land at Jaipur and then, at Chandigarh. However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports," the IAF said in a statement. The passenger jet, operated by Mahan Air, hovered over India for about 40 minutes before it was allowed to leave. The aircraft was on its way from Tehran and Guangzhou. Around 9.20 am, Delhi Police received an alert about the bomb threat on the plane. The Air Traffic Controller of Delhi airport didn't allow the aircraft to land. Instead, the ATC instructed the plane to divert to Jaipur, but the pilot refused. This was when Su-30MKI combat jets took off from Halwara and Jodhpur to intercept the passenger flight. After a while, intimation was received from Tehran to disregard the bomb scare, following which the aircraft continued on its journey towards its final destination. The IAF fighter jets followed the plane from a safe distance. "It was a false alarm," said an IAF officer. All actions were taken by the IAF as per the laid down procedure, jointly with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security. The aircraft was under close radar surveillance by the air force throughout the Indian airspace. Days ahead of the Vijayadasami celebrations, the Hyderabad police have busted a terror module and nabbed three ISI - Lashkar-e-Taiba handled radicals who planned to hurl grenades on public gatherings in the city. The cops on Sunday arrested Abdul Zahed alias Motu (39), Md Samiuddin alias Abdul Sami (39) and Maaz Hasan Farooq alias Maaz (29) from the old city. Abdul Zahed, a resident of Malakpet was involved in several terror related cases in Hyderabad in the past. He revived his contacts with his Pakistani ISI conduits again, conspired to cause terror acts including blasts and lone wolf attacks in the city to create terror, police officials said. Also Read | LeT terrorist killed in encounter in J&K's Shopian Upon receiving specific information that Abdul along with his associates has received a consignment of four hand grenades to carry out sensational terror attacks in Hyderabad, the cops acted swiftly and apprehended the three persons from Malakpet. According to a statement from the Hyderabad police, Zahed was previously involved in several terror related cases in Hyderabad including a suicide attack on the City Police Commissioners task force office at Begumpet in 2005. Zahed was in regular touch with Pakistani ISI-LeT handlers, Farhatullah Ghori alias FG, Siddique Bin Osman alias Abu Hamzala, Abdul Majeed alias Chotu. These three men are Hyderabad natives but absconded to and settled in Pakistan as they are wanted in several terror cases here. They are now working under the aegis of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). In the past, these men had recruited local youth, radicalised them and executed terror attacks like the blast at the Saibaba Temple in Dilsukhnagar in 2002, bus blast in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, suicide attack on Task Force office, Begumpet in 2005. They also attempted to cause blasts near Ganesh Temple, Secunderabad in 2004, the police said. Zahed in his confession now has revealed that Farhatulla Ghori, Abu Hamzala and Majeed revived their contacts with him, motivated and financed him for the recruitment of youth and execution of terror attacks in Hyderabad again. So, at the behest of Pakistan based handlers Zahed recruited Samiuddin and Maaz Hasan. The cops seized four hand grenades from their possession which Zahed had received from his Pak based handlers. The group planned to hurl the hand grenades targeting public gatherings, thereby causing terror and communal tension in the city, the police said. The cops also recovered five mobile phones, a motorcycle and over Rs 5 lakh in cash from the offenders. The recent floods in Bengaluru did not spare anyone. Unlike the visuals of the past, wherein only the poor and vulnerable were shown in flood-ravaged areas, this time mansions with BMWs, Bentleys on the porch were also inundated. Most people would call this a natural disaster. Thats not correct. Natural phenomena like earthquakes, floods, cyclones and droughts are incorrectly referred to as natural disasters; they are, actually, natural hazards. When an earthquake or a cloud burst hits an uninhabited region, its not a disaster, but a hazard. But when natural hazards occur where people reside, that is when they can potentially become a disaster. While this may seem like semantics to some, factors like affected population, loss to life and property and all-round misery decide if this hazard is a disaster or not. There are two key aspects of coping with a natural hazard: reducing existing risks and avoiding creating new ones. We have failed at both. So, it can be said that hazards are natural, disasters are man-made. Covering up of SWDs, filling up of natural water bodies for real estate gains and rampant, unplanned construction are all contributing to increasing instances of flooding in cities. The solution to all of these will take time, and enough resolve from policymakers and people to set things right. But we can work towards managing the next natural disaster better. Also Read | Video series shows theres more to Bengaluru floods than encroachment The capacity to mitigate the effects are key to reducing the risks of a natural hazard. Evacuating people before the hazard strikes would minimise loss of life and help handle the after-effects better. A combination of people-centred early warning systems (EWS) and preparedness can enable early action to minimise the harm to lives and livelihoods. For EWS to be successful, it is important to correctly predict the hazard and to ensure that all stakeholders at risk receive, understand and, most importantly, act on the alert. In hazards like cyclones or floods, this means moving people to safe locations. Early action also includes keeping rescue mechanisms ready, and equipping relief camps with essentials. To accomplish this, early warning systems must be multi-hazard (designed to detect different hazards that may occur alone, simultaneously, or cascade), end-to-end (a system that covers the entire range, from hazard detection to action, which includes providing understandable and actionable warning message) and people-centred (designed to empower people to act on time and appropriately). There are challenges to operationalise such multi-hazard early warning systems -- coordination between relevant agencies, dissemination of alerts, emergency preparedness and disaster response plans are some. Another challenge is communities assessment of hazards and their preparedness. People may be unaware of risks or simply ignore the warnings or be unprepared to act upon the warnings. It is important that communities trust these warnings. We must understand that early warning saves lives. A days notice can reduce the post-hazard damages by 30%. As climate change is causing more frequent, extreme and unpredictable hazards, the need for early warning systems is urgent. Though non-structural measures like EWS are important, one should also understand that appropriate structural measures on the ground are also immensely critical. China is exploring the concept of sponge cities. It involves banning new developments on floodplains and wetlands, creating corridors along riverbanks and floodplains for safer riverine flooding, and replacing impermeable surfaces with permeable green options. Construction of large underground rainwater reservoirs, like in Tokyo, and separating stormwater and sewerage systems are other measures that can help in reducing urban flooding. Also Read | Govt gives BBMP Rs 350 cr to flood-proof Bengaluru India also takes such measures. the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues heavy rains and cyclone warnings, while flood warnings in all major rivers are issued by the Central Water Commission (CWC) and state water resources departments. Mumbai is experimenting with iFLOWS-MUMBAI (Integrated Flood Warning System for Mumbai), a state-of-the-art flood warning system developed in 2020.Other measures include roof-top water harvesting, solid waste management, including ban on plastic bags, to prevent the choking of drains, and cleaning of drainage networks before monsoon, etc. But they are not enough. We must create structures that can delay, reduce flooding, which means restoring/increasing carrying capacities of storm-drainage system, clearing the way for lost natural drains (even if it means demolitions), revitalising lakes, removing unauthorised constructions along river banks and over flood plains. We will also need to engineer massive infrastructural projects like underground reservoirs. The cost of creating such structures may appear huge now, but will help reduce flooding and save thousands of crores over decades. Besides, water saved thus would be immensely useful in catering to a significant part of water demand in the cities. India is going to bear the brunt of climate change. We are witnesses to this fact every year. The focus should be now on coping and not making things worse. Its time we realise that citizens need to be more responsible and get involved in this fight against urban hazards. Unless you fancy a ride on your citys roads on an NDRF boat every year. (The writer is Director, Water Resources Management, RTI International India) Weddings are fun - there is happiness and excitement. Add to all this the quaintness of a new culture and you have a memorable affair. I had the good fortune of attending a wedding in Muscat a few years back. The marriage was of the son of an Omani colleague of my host and I did not need much persuasion to attend the event. The function, an all-male affair, was held in a building adjacent to a mosque. This is known as the Majlis, a private place, where guests are received and entertained. It was held after the night prayers. The women have a separate function. We were seated in blue sofas. The bridegroom and the guests looked elegant in their white Dishdashas (collarless long gowns, the traditional wear of the region), waist band, the elaborate silver ceremonial khanjjar (dagger) with delicate engravings stuck in the waist band, and beautifully embroidered turbans. The marriage was a simple affair. The ceremony conducted by a Qazi, consisted of reading from the Quran, and confirmation of acceptance of the bride and bridegroom to each other, in the presence of witnesses, the bride being represented by her witnesses. This was followed by a short sermon and an offer from the very jovial Qazi to conduct any other marriage if anybody else wishes to get married! Nobody took the offer. The entire ceremony took 15 minutes. This was followed by attendants serving the traditional halwa - a rich sweet, sticky, brown coloured and flavoured with nuts, very similar to our Calicut halwa. Followed by the sweet was a small cup of strong, black coffee and wet tissues to clean your hands. The entire gathering then sat in small groups on the floor in front of the sofas. Attendants came with a plastic sheet to spread on the floor and cups of pre-packaged water. Another attendant came with a large platter of brown, delicately flavoured rice with chunks of meat and a salad of onions, cucumber and capsicum and red chutney. Groups of 5-7 men sat down to eat from a common platter. The food was tasty, and familiar as it was almost Indian. A person came around with a large bag to collect the trash and the whole place was swiftly and efficiently cleaned with no traces of food. No gifts are expected. Incidentally, dowry is given by the bridegroom. The ceremony was short, simple yet grand. I do wish more of us could emulate the Oman example and cut down the vulgar display of wealth in our weddings and also keep the venue clean. The Indian top-four batters once again put up a superlative show to post a massive 237 for 3 in the second T20 International against South Africa here on Sunday. A sellout crowd witnessed raining boundaries at the small ACA Barsapara Stadium as the Indian batters smashed 25 fours and 13 sixes. They scored 178 runs in boundaries. Rohit Sharma (43 off 37 balls) and KL Rahul (57 off 28 balls) started it before Suryakumar Yadav (61 off 22 balls), Virat Kohli (49 not out) and Dinesh Karthik (17 not out) finished it off in style. Replying to his critics, Rahul (57) was back at his aggressive best, slamming a 24-ball fifty, his second in a row, as he and Rohit put on 96 runs for the opening wicket that came off just 59 balls. Yadav then continued to raise his standards higher with a third successive half-century that came off just 18 deliveries and India crossed the 200-mark in the 18th over. With the top-four doing the bulk of the scoring, India's designated finisher Karthik got just seven balls but he made the most of the opportunity, smashing two sixes and one four in his quickfire 17 not out. The South African pacers looked lacklustre and bowled full and the Indians feasted on to them. Rohit first began the onslaught and Rahul followed it up in style after Temba Bavuma put them in. After being hit on his hand from Wayne Parnell in the second over, Rohit came out all guns blazing while Rahul was a mute spectator with nine from five balls. It was then the turn of Rahul who whipped the ball over square leg with perfect demonstration of his wrist work. It was a shot that summed up his dominating innings as he took on Nortje in a similar fashion, this time whipping the bowler a little deep. There was no signs of tentativeness in Rahul's batting that had copped much criticism as he raced to his fifty in just 24 balls, stepping down to Aiden Markram for a six over long-on. India were 57 for no loss inside the power play and there was no stopping the duo when a snake gave South Africans a bit of a breather. In a rare sight, the snake slithered out onto the field from the extra cover region to stop play for about five minutes before the groundsmen captured it in a bucket. The Karnataka government was making inroads into setting up an EV cluster, an IT tech parksimilar to Bengalurus ITPLin the Hubballi-Dharwad-Belagavi (HDB) cluster in coming days, state Minister of Electronics, Information Technology - Biotechnology, Science and Technology, Higher Education, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood C N Ashwath Narayan said on Monday. The HDB IT tech park will have a 20,000-seat capacity and a start-up hub with a capacity of 5,000 seats. A centre of excellence (CoE) in agri-tech is being developed in association with the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Dharwad. A CoE in artificial intelligence will be set up in Hubballi, in association with a local anchor institute. Incubator facilities for startups will be arranged at Indian Institute of Technology and Indian Institute of Information Technology in Dharwad, he said. Narayan was speaking at Techceleration, a pre-Bengaluru Tech Summit event under Beyond Bengaluru initiative, organised in Hubballi on Monday by the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM). Stating that 120 among the 400 registered with the startup grid are from this region, the minister noted that the plan is to have 800 companies registered under the startup grid by the end of this fiscal, to which Rs 25 crore cluster seed fund would also be provided. Under KDEMs initiative, eight companies have come up in the region, creating 1,200 jobs in the last one year. Ten among 50 startups in the growth phase are considered as potential for investment, and they are expecting USD 100 million investment, Narayan said. He also stressed the need to decentralise investment to other places in Karnataka to strengthen the digital economy, stating that the government is also encouraging mentorship, incubation and acceleration facilities. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi stated that the mindset of investors and some bureaucrats have to be changed to facilitate more investment in places other than bigger cities like Bengaluru. The Union government would extend all required help to improve infrastructure and connectivity in Tier-2 cities. Efforts are being made to introduce high-speed trains, to lay new railway lines, and to develop ports in the region, he said, announcing that a regular flight service between Hubballi and Delhi would begin soon. The Karnataka government on Monday released Rs 4 crore to help farmers fight the outbreak of the leaf spot disease that has impacted areca crops in the Malnad and coastal regions. According to an order issued by the Horticulture Department, the leaf spot disease has affected crops in Shivamogga, Chikmagalur, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Hassan and Kodagu districts. The disease is caused by a fungus called Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. The disease has impacted crops on 20,534.50 hectares. "The government has earmarked Rs 8 crore of which Rs 4 crore has been released," Home Minister Araga Jnanendra, who represents Tirthahalli in Shivamogga, said in a statement. "Farmers will get financial assistance of Rs 4,000 per hectare up to 1.5 hectares to purchase good quality medicines to control the spread of the disease," Jnanendra said, adding that he held a meeting with Horticulture Minister Munirathna and Fisheries MInister S Angara last week to take stock of the situation. In the first phase, Rs 4 crore will be used to help farmers fight the disease on an estimated 10,000 hectares. The Channapatna Rural police on Sunday booked 14 JD(S) leaders and workers for allegedly pelting stones and eggs at BJP MLC, C P Yogeshwars car during the ground-breaking ceremony for works on rural roads and C C drains on Saturday. Based on the complaint lodged by Yogeshwars car driver Venkatesh, the police have booked the JD(S) workers under IPC sections 353 and 427. A constable of the hannapatna rural station, who was deployed at the venue for bandobust, has also lodged a complaint stating that a few JD(S) workers threw stones at him while providing security for the MLC. Also Read | Why should I talk about 'fake Gandhi' on Gandhi Jayanti: CM Bommai takes dig at Rahul Miffed over not inviting local MLA H D Kumaraswamy for the ground-breaking ceremonies in five villages, JD(S) workers had staged protests at all venues and attacked Yogeshwars car with stones and eggs at Bhairapatna on Saturday. Following the complaints against the party workers, JD(S) youth wing state president Nikhil Kumaraswamy met Channapatna DySP Omprakash on Sunday. Speaking to reporters Nikhil said, The police should not have allowed the ground-breaking ceremonies as the district administration had cancelled the events. Police action on the JD(S) workers was not right. Senior BJP leader Lahar Singh Siroya on Monday asked the Congress to clarify on the involvement of Naxals and Maoists in the ongoing Bharat Jodo march in Karnataka. Siroya, a Rajya Sabha member, asked 10 questions to Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah who are leading the 510-km Bharat Jodo march in the state. Can they confirm that Naxals/Maoists and their sympathisers are not part of the Bharat Jodo Yatras Karnataka leg? Were these people involved in the planning of the yatra? Siroya asked in a statement. Can they confirm if some Congressmen have helped Naxals/Maoists to collect large sums of money to build and run media outlets in recent years? Will they agree to a probe into the money sources of these people? Also Read | Congress sees strong response to Rahul's Bharat Jodo Yatra in Mysuru Siroya even referred to the death of journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh without naming her. He asked if the Siddaramaiah-led government deliberately looked away as Naxals/Maoists exploited the death of a famous journalist to strengthen their operations? Siroya also wondered if Siddaramaiahs friends helped the Naxals/Maoists with money and logistics to organise memorial functions for the journalist. The BJP leader asked the Congress to clarify if Naxals/Maoists hijacked the recent farmers agitation against farm laws in Karnataka. He also asked Siddaramaiah to spell out what his governments policy towards Naxals/Maoists was. Accusing Siddaramaiah of having a soft corner for the banned PFI, Siroya asked if the Congress leader had a similar sentiment for Naxals/Maoists. Recently, when action was taken against PFI, Siddaramaiah said there should be action against RSS, too. Has he ever sought action against Naxals/Maoists? Siroya asked. Siroya asked Siddaramaiah to specify if he sought action against his friends who organised a pro-China function from which he withdrew after it became a controversy. If everything is above board, will Congress leaders ask for a probe by central agencies into the affairs of Naxals/Maoists and their sympathisers in Karnataka? Siroya said. Priyanks reply Reacting to Siroya, Karnataka Congress communications chief Priyank Kharge tweeted: Our Rajya Sabha MP has asked questions hoping it will be star question in Rajya Sabha. May I suggest that he direct these questions to HM Amit Shah who is in charge of intelligence wing or is he suggesting that HM is incompetent & doesnt have a clue what the Naxals are up to? Two women have admitted today (Monday October 3) to unlawfully killing a Derry pensioner who died ten months after being found unconscious in the street. Daniel Guyler was rushed to Altnagelvin Hospital after he was found lying injured in the Termon Street area of the Waterside on July 23, 2018. The 75-year old never regained consciousness and passed away in Altnagelvin on May 1, 2019. Rhona Mary Gracey, 36, and Sharon Mary Faustina Harland, 46 were initially charged with robbing Mr Guyler of his wallet in July 2018 and were later charged with his murder. The pair appeared via separate video links at Belfast Crown Court today where it emerged a charge of manslaughter had been added to the bill of indictment. Both women attended their hearings via two separate video links. Gracey, of Chobham Street in Belfast, who at a previous hearing denied the murder charge, entered a guilty plea to the manslaughter of Mr Guyler. Co-accused Harland, from Bridge Street in Derry, denied the counts of murder and robbery but pleaded guilty to a charge of manslaughter. Defence teams for both women said they would be seeking reports ahead of sentencing. Mr Justice OHara granted the request for time to compile and consider all reports and set the date for sentencing both Gracey and Harland as Thursday December 15, 2022. The cost of food, food safety and taste are the main factors affecting food purchases by Irish consumers, latest research shows. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has welcomed EU-wide research conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The 2022 Eurobarometer on food safety, the first to be commissioned since 2019, focused on a range of topics including concerns about food safety, trust in sources of information on food risks, and personal interest in food safety. When asked about factors affecting food purchases, Irish consumers ranked cost (63%) as the most important consideration, with taste (54%) and food safety (52%) following close behind. Strikingly, these results are higher overall than the average top concerns across the whole EU of cost (54%), taste (51%) and food safety (46%). Other findings from the Eurobarometer include: Chief among Irish food safety concerns are food poisoning from food or drinks contaminated by bacteria, viruses, and parasites (39%); pesticide residues in food (36%); and additives like colours, preservatives or flavourings used in food or drinks (29%). A strong majority of Irish consumers (82% of men and 83% of women) would change their behaviour if made aware of a foodborne disease outbreak news story, with 90% of those aged 1524 stating they would do so. When asked for their reasons for not engaging with the EU food safety system, Irish consumers (47%) responded; I take it for granted that the food sold is safe. Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI said: In the current high cost of living climate and with rising household bills, it is not surprising to see that Irish consumers report cost as the main factor when purchasing food, up 6% since 2019. However, from a food safety perspective, it is encouraging to see that Irish consumers place food safety as the third most important factor when buying food. Over 1,000 Irish consumers were interviewed as part of this research, and 90% of those agreed that regulations are in place to ensure that the food we eat is safe, with 84% of the same respondents trusting national authorities as a source of information on food risk, a figure almost 20% higher than the EU average (66%). 75% of Irish people interviewed said they had a personal interest in the topic of food safety. We want every Irish consumer to know that the FSAI is responsive and understanding of their concerns regarding food safety. We continue to work with food businesses in Ireland to ensure that food safety regulations are complied with and that Ireland maintains its positive reputation for producing safe food. Working in conjunction with the food inspectorate and other EU food safety authorities, we will continue to protect consumers and raise compliance through partnership, science, and food law enforcement, Dr Byrne concluded. Irelands premier has described Northern Ireland minister Steve Bakers apology over his previous stance on Brexit as honest and very helpful. Taoiseach Micheal Martin welcomed the tone of Mr Bakers upfront comments. Mr Baker, a former strident Brexiteer and member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of MPs, apologised on Sunday over his ferocious stance on negotiations with the EU. He told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham that relations with Ireland are not where they should be, and added that ministers need to act with humility to restore relationships with the Republic and the EU. Speaking after a shared island event in Dublin on Monday, Mr Martin said: I welcomed not just his comments, but the tone of his comments. I think they were honest and very, very helpful. And I look forward to continuing engagement with Minister Baker and others within the British Government. Prime Minister Liz Truss said Mr Baker was speaking for himself. In an interview with UTV filmed on Sunday, she said: Steve speaks from his own personal experience being deeply involved in the Brexit debate, but he speaks for the whole Government in that we absolutely want to find a negotiated solution to deal with the issues of the Northern Ireland Protocol and work with our neighbours in the Republic of Ireland. Asked whether she thought she should apologise on behalf of the UK Government, Ms Truss said she had always worked constructively with the EU and the Republic of Ireland, but reaffirmed that we do need to fix the very serious issues that have been caused by the NI Protocol. The Taoiseach said he had a very good engagement with Ms Truss and new Cabinet members at the Queens funeral. I met the British Prime Minister and we both articulated a collective sense of the long-term desirability of very good relationships between Britain and Ireland and also between the United Kingdom and the European Union, and I think those comments are in that context, he said. Mr Martin added it is very clear that there is a genuine determination to try and resolve all of the issues around the protocol by negotiation. But he warned there is a lot of work to be done in terms of the hard negotiations. Talks are set to resume later this week between the UK and the EU in a bid to find a way out of the impasse. Mr Baker said on Monday that he is happy to eat humble pie in a bid to improve the broken relationship between Britain and Ireland. He told Irish broadcaster RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland programme he is sorry that relations between the UK and Ireland have been soured by the Brexit process and that he is convinced a deal can be reached on the protocol if negotiations are made in a spirit of goodwill. Im very convinced that, if we get into a negotiation, without pre-conditions, and together in a spirit of goodwill, we can de-escalate this problem and we can get a deal which works for everyone, respecting everyones legitimate interests, north-south and east-west, Mr Baker said. And that really is why, if I have to eat a bit of humble pie in order to restore broken relationships to get that done, well, Im happy to eat a bit of humble pie. Mr Baker said his motivation for his apology was to try to get a deal that works. If were going to be constructive here and get a deal that works for everyone, weve got to de-escalate these tensions. So that was my motivation, he said. I sincerely want to be on the right side of all parties involved in the Belfast Good Friday Agreement so that we can make progress, get a deal and get on with the really serious issues that we face in Northern Ireland. He added: I recognise that, as the leader of the sort of 28, if I can put it in those terms, who rejected Theresa Mays deal three times, that caused enormous amounts of anxiety, and I recognise also that businesses in Northern Ireland faced a lot of costs through this process of uncertainty. And those are things I want to see put right. We can put those right in the deal. Firefighters are tackling a blaze at a historic building in Belfasts Cathedral Quarter. More than 50 personnel were involved in fighting the fire at Old Cathedral Building on Donegall Street from the early hours of Monday. A Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) spokesperson said they were alerted to the blaze at 5.37am. They said: Eight fire appliances from Belfast, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn, two aerial appliances, 52 firefighters and five officers are in attendance. The building hosts a number of small creative businesses. Tina Calder, owner of Excalibur Press, which has offices in the building, said: I got a call this morning just before 6am. My brother is a security guard at the Ulster University and he said, Tina, your building is on fire. Of course, I sprang up, got a taxi, came in and literally for about an hour and a half, just stood here crying watching the building go up in flames. I was able to give them keys, ring the landlord and the agent, and I made contact with the other tenants in the building as much as possible. It was just heart breaking as I watched peoples studios go. One man owns a violin making studio it was gone. There are illustrators in there that have artwork. We can see that our offices are probably going to have significant water and smoke damage. All five of my staff are working from home today. Ms Calder added: Weve had a wonderful outburst of support from the community here in Cathedral Quarter, asking what can they do to help, and its just wonderful to see that community come together to support us. Figures disclosed by the Ministry of Defence have revealed that 40 soldiers, sailors and air personnel have been referred to the terrorism prevention programme since 2019. Half of the personnel were referred due to concerns about extreme right-wing activity, a Freedom of Information request submitted by The Times revealed. This increased from five per year in 2019 and 2020 to 10 between January 2021 and April 2022. However, The Times reported that the Government refused to disclose why the remaining 20 were referred to the anti-terrorism Prevent programme. Other categories for referral include Northern Ireland-related terrorism and Islamic extremism. An MOD spokesperson told the PA news agency that procedures are in place to report and rehabilitate those who are at risk of being drawn into extremism. Defence staff are prohibited from membership of proscribed organisations and personnel will be referred to the appropriate authorities if necessary, he said. Our personnel are vetted upon enlistment. In all cases, we take early action to confront and challenge behaviours that fall short of the high standards expected. Our chain of command are vigilant and procedures are in place to report and rehabilitate those who are at risk of being drawn into extremism. It comes after a report by the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) in July found that extreme right-wing groups were targeting military personnel as potential recruits. The report also found that leaders of the armed forces do not provide direction over whether the personnel can join the groups. The committee said: Extreme right-wing terrorists often display an interest in military culture, weaponry and the armed forces or law enforcement organisations the director-general for MI5 noted that many of these people are absolutely fixated with weaponry. This leads both to individuals seeking to join the military, and groups seeking to recruit within the military. The fact that the armed forces do not provide clear direction to service personnel regarding membership of any organisation let alone an extremist one would appear to be something of an anomaly. It could be argued that this is a somewhat risky approach, given the sensitive roles of many service personnel. UK and EU officials have signalled they are willing to resolve the impasse over the Northern Ireland Protocol. European Commission (EC) spokesman Daniel Ferrie confirmed the two sides will meet this week for technical level talks, adding the EU will approach them constructively and it remains committed to finding joint solutions. New Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker also insisted he is convinced London and Brussels can get a deal which works for everyone if they enter talks without pre-conditions and together in a spirit of goodwill. Mr Baker, a strident Brexit supporter, said he is happy to eat humble pie in a bid to improve the broken relationship between Britain and Ireland. The protocol was agreed by the UK and EU as part of the Withdrawal Agreement and sought to avoid a hard border with Ireland post-Brexit. But the arrangements have created trade barriers on goods being shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. The protocol is vehemently opposed by many unionists in Northern Ireland and the DUP is currently blocking the formation of a powersharing executive in Belfast in protest. Talks between the UK and EU have stalled in recent months although Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and the ECs Maros Sefcovic enjoyed a good conversation on Friday. Mr Ferrie told reporters: They both agreed that solutions needed to be found around the protocol. There will be technical level talks, discussions, exchanges this week, the details of which of course need to be worked out. All I would do is underline from our side that the EU is committed to joint efforts, its committed to finding joint solutions, we need to find these solutions to bring predictability, certainty to people in Northern Ireland. And I think in general, if you look back, its fair to say the EU has always approached these talks constructively and we will continue to do so. Prime Minister Liz Truss said she wants a settlement which works for everybody. She told UTV: We recognise that the EU have legitimate interests in protecting the single market. We have got to make sure we share commercial data, we want to make sure that the arrangements work for their concerns as well as our concerns. We have to have something that works for everybody, I am clear about that. UK minister Mr Baker on Sunday apologised for his previous ferocious stance on negotiations with the EU and acknowledged humility is required to restore relationships with the EU and Ireland. Mr Baker, formerly a member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of MPs, told Irish broadcaster RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland programme on Monday: Im very convinced that, if we get into a negotiation, without pre-conditions, and together in a spirit of goodwill, we can de-escalate this problem and we can get a deal which works for everyone, respecting everyones legitimate interests, north-south and east-west. And that really is why, if I have to eat a bit of humble pie in order to restore broken relationships to get that done, well, Im happy to eat a bit of humble pie. Legislation to enable the UK Government to effectively tear up parts of the protocol is to return to Parliament on October 11. The Northern Ireland Protocol Bill has already cleared the House of Commons and will be debated at second reading by the House of Lords, which is expected to consider it at length, next week. Mr Ferrie, pressed about Mr Bakers remarks and asked if the EU is willing to engage in fast-track negotiations while the Bill exists, said: I think weve shown now for a long time that we are constructive, were open to finding solutions, we have come up with ideas as to how we can overcome some of the challenges related to the implementation of the protocol. We stand ready, we have been standing ready for a long time now to find those solutions, to negotiate, thats all I can say. Im not particularly fussed about terminology around one or other type of talk. There will be technical level colleagues and experts discussing this week and well take it from there. Thomas Byrne, the Irish Minister for European Affairs, welcomed the change in the mood music but warned that both sides had been here before. What we need to see this week we have had the good political atmospherics. By the way, we have had them before, but I think it is probably stronger now. We have got to make sure that the technical talks, which I believe are due to start this week between the EU and the UK, that they move on. Because that is where we fell down the last time. For Labour, shadow foreign secretary David Lammy said the UK Government must not squander the opportunity to make progress on the protocol. He said: The last thing the UK needs, in the middle of a fiscal crisis the Conservatives have created, is new trade barriers with the EU. For months, Labour has been calling for the Government to get round the negotiating table with the EU to fix the bad deal it negotiated. There is a window now the Government must not squander. With hard work and compromise on all sides, a deal is achievable to end this damaging, self-inflicted stand-off. Former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine said the Government should pull the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, warning it would get massacred in the House of Lords. He told a European Movement fringe event at the Conservative Party conference: I think if our leadership, if the Government is looking for a U-turn, it should pull the legislation from the House of Lords tomorrow. Its going to get massacred in the House of Lords anyway. Minister Byrne attends EU Israel Association Council Press release Today, 3 October 2022, the Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., represented Ireland at the EU Israel Association Council. The meeting focused on engagement between the EU and Israel across a range of issues and on the Middle East Peace Process. Minister Byrne commented: The Irish Government supported holding an Association Council to discuss areas of co-operation between the EU and Israel and to allow us to raise our many concerns regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Irelands national statement expressed our alarm at the deteriorating situation on the ground and stressed the urgent need for renewed political dialogue. It called on Israel to comply with international law, halt settlement expansion, and ensure space for Palestinian civil society. The statement delivered by the EU also relayed our concerns on many issues and reiterated the EUs longstanding commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace based on a negotiated two-State solution. It is important that we maintain ongoing channels of communication on this important issue. ENDS Press Office 3 October 2022 | Next Item In a rather surprising turn of events, Apple has reportedly begun producing the latest iPhone 14 in India. It is a big win for the country as the Cupertino-based tech giant has been looking for alternatives to the Chinese assembly lines for quite some time due to the rising political and trade tensions between China and the United States. Further, the iPhone 14 will be the first iPhone manufactured in India hardly three weeks from the global launch. Apple did not intend to shift production until two months from the launch In August, Bloomberg reported that Apple and its suppliers are willing to manufacture the latest iPhone by late October or November. Further, Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at TF International Securities Group, indicated that Apple is considering producing in India sooner than expected. To achieve this, Apple executives also examined the Foxconn facilities in India, concluding that maintaining the same secrecy levels as the Chinese assembly lines could be difficult. iPhone 14 Pro However, even after the initial hesitation, Apple announced last week that it is assembling the iPhone 14 in India. As per a recent report from Bloomberg, Apples production partners in the country have done an exceptionally great job, quickening the process after resolving supply chain issues. Another report by Nikkei Asia mentions that the company could also manufacture the other models in the iPhone 14 lineup, which includes the iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 14 Pro and the iPhone 14 Pro Max, in the country soon. For now, the locally produced iPhone 14 will go on sale soon. Should Indian customers expect a price drop soon? Over the past few years, the Indian administration has been making efforts to invite international companies to manufacture their products in the country. It is a significant achievement for the Indian government and good news for Apple fans in the country. Further, the development strengthens Indias position as an information technology hub. Additionally, the local manufacturing process might allow Apple to provide a discount on the iPhone 14. To recall, Apple has been making iPhones in the country for quite some time, with iPhone SE being the first iPhone that came out of the Indian facility. For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in. Subscriber content preview REDMOND Olde Redmond Place, at 7001 Old Redmond Road, sold last week for a bit over $78.8 million, according to King County records. The seller was Redmond Place LP, which is associated with Gerson Bakar, a Bay Area investment group that acquired the property in 2015 for almost $47 million. . . . More than 54,000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Ireland since the onset of war in their country, data shows. The latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) found a total of 54,771 people from Ukraine arrived in Ireland up to September 25. More than 1,000 people arrived in the previous week. All Ukrainians have been issued with personal public service numbers (PPSNs) under the Temporary Protection Directive. Women aged 20 and over account for 46% of arrivals to date, while children and teenagers aged 0-19 years, both male and female, account for 35%. The highest percentage of those arriving, a total of 19,121 individuals (more than a third of all arrivals), were categorised as one parent with children under the broad relationship classification headings used. As of September 25, 67% of the arrivals that attended employment support events arranged by Intreo Public Employment Services, English language proficiency was noted as being a challenge in securing employment. Of the 19,589 arrivals who attended an Intreo event, 14,209 had recorded previous occupations, with professionals being the largest group at 32%. Of the 13,878 persons where the highest level of education was recorded, 67% had achieved an NFQ level equivalent to 7 or higher. CSO statistician Karola Graupner said the latest data provides insights into Irelands response to the Ukrainian crisis. We show two maps in this release based on mapping 51,788 individuals, or 95% of arrivals, to a location within Ireland, she said. The first map is a count of arrivals by local electoral area (LEA), and the second is the rate of arrivals by LEA (per 100 of the preliminary Census 2022 de facto population). Both North Inner City in Dublin and Killarney in Co Kerry had the highest number of associated arrivals from Ukraine at 1,558. Our analysis also shows that the rate per 100 of the population ranges across all LEAs in the country from 0.07% to 7.87%. The LEA with the highest rate is Ennistimon in Co Clare. The map is based on the local post office addresses through which arrivals were seeking assistance from the Department of Social Protection or, if available, the arrivals residential address where an accommodation recognition payment is payable to the host of the residence. A young man from Co Westmeath has said he is overwhelmed and overjoyed at becoming the first person with Down syndrome to be elected to a senior position in a political party in Ireland. Fintan Bray was voted into Fianna Fails National Executive or Committee of 15 at the partys Ard Fheis on Saturday. Fianna Fail Longford councillor Uruemu Adejinmi, who became the first black woman to be elected mayor in Ireland last year, was also elected to the oversight committee. Mr Bray told the PA news agency he was thrilled at being elected and that he wants to be a role model for younger people with disabilities. Im still in shock, he said. Im elected now and now people from everywhere, from Galway, Kilkenny, have all been liking and commenting and texting me congratulations. The 28-year-old from Delvin said politics is the only job he wants for the rest of his life, adding that he wants to represent those with special needs across the country. Its the only job I want for the rest of my life, Mr Bray said. Im looking for paid employment for all people with disabilities, any type of disability to have a chance to have a job, to have access to education. And Im representing people for all of that now. How do I feel about it now? Im absolutely overwhelmed with everything I cant believe it myself that its happening. Taoiseach Micheal Martin, who met Mr Bray at the partys Ard Fheis at the weekend, congratulated Mr Bray on his successful campaign. Special mention & congratulations to @FintanBrayC15 on being elected to our Ard Chomhairle the first person with Down syndrome to be elected to a senior position in a political party in Ireland. Were delighted & very grateful to have his input and representation in our party. pic.twitter.com/x26q6Vy6Ic Micheal Martin (@MichealMartinTD) October 2, 2022 Mr Martin later wrote on Twitter: Special mention & congratulations to Fintan Bray on being elected to our Ard Chomhairle the first person with Down syndrome to be elected to a senior position in a political party in Ireland. Were delighted & very grateful to have his input and representation in our party. Mr Bray, who describes himself as being born and raised Fianna Fail, said meeting the Taoiseach was one of the best days in my life. He is a nice man, he said. Hes one of the nicest people youve ever met. Hes really friendly and hes so nice to talk to. Hes one of the best leaders weve ever had in Fianna Fail. Mr Bray, who is a member of a number of bodies including the National Council of Down Syndrome Ireland and Fianna Fails disability forum, said he wants to focus on helping people. Its not about what I want, its about what other people want Its all about the people now, he said. The people have spoken now. I represent everyone in the country with differences. His advice to younger people with disabilities is to stay positive. Dont ever give up on your dream, he said. Keep on going with your future. Things are hard, I have to say that, things are hard, difficult at times, but thats just life. Just keep on going. Keep on doing your dancing, singing, acting, anything, keep on doing it and living your life to the fullest. Think about all the positives in life and never think you cannot do it. Everyone can achieve anything if theyre given the opportunity. A Manchester-based haulier has claimed he was sold seven trucks by related firms some of which allegedly had twice as many miles on the clock as he was told when he bought the vehicles. Haulier Cathal Dempsey has sued A&M Commercials Ltd, Castleshane, Co Monaghan and related A&M Commercial Ireland Ltd, Keady, Co Armagh over seven trucks he purchased from the firms in 2009 and 2011. In his High Court action, Mr Dempsey, who is from Co Monaghan, claims it was an express condition of the sale that the units had a mileage record of 500,000km. He claims that despite being given such assurances the vehicles broke down far more often than they should have. They were off the road frequently resulting in damage to his business. He claims that after the vehicles were examined the true mileage was much higher than what he claims was agreed. Some of the units purchased had an estimated mileage of almost 1m km, it is claimed. As a result, Mr Dempsey seeks damages for breach of contract from the defendants. The claims are denied, and the defendants say it was not an implied condition of the sale agreement that each of the vehicles had a correct mileage record of approximately 500,000km and had a reasonable expectation of reliability and a reasonable period of trouble-free usage as claimed. It was also denied that the defendants showed Mr Dempsey that the vehicles had a genuine mileage of approximately 500,000km, or that the vehicle's speedometers were fraudulently altered for the purpose of misleading Mr Dempsey. It is further denied the vehicles were in poor working order, had serious mechanical defects or were manifestly unfit for purpose. Opening the case Dominick Hussey SC for Mr Dempsey said his bought three Scania tractor units for Eur116,000 in 2009 and four MAN trucks in exchange for two vehicles he owned valued at Eur97,000 in 2011 from the defendants. Counsel said that some of the trucks were returned shortly after they were purchased, while others were taken into possession by the company which financed Mr Dempsey's business. Counsel said that it was their case that an expert who examined the trucks for Mr Dempsey said he had never seen anything as 'spectacular' as the differences between the actual mileage on the trucks and the mileage Mr Dempsey believed was on them when he acquired the trucks. Counsel said it was their case the three Scanias had mileages of 1m km when Mr Dempsey bought them The case opened before Mr Justice Donald Binchy on Wednesday. However, the Judge adjourned the case for two weeks after evidential difficulties arose in the case. Mr Dempsey's lawyers argued that certain technical evidence concerning the truck's alleged mileage could be given by its expert. Lawyers for the defendants said that certain technical evidence must be given to the court by the other persons who it is claimed had examined the vehicles, and that hearsay evidence could not be allowed. Noting the seriousness of the allegations being made the Judge, who said he was not prepared to dismiss the action, put the matter back for two weeks. All roads finally led to Dingle yesterday for the start of the Blas na hEireann finals, the Irish food awards and largest food awards on the island. The bronze, silver and gold winners from Co. Louth are Carlingford Oyster Company Ltd, Coffee and Food Equipment Ltd, Dan Kelly's Cider, East Coast Bakehouse, Hilton Foods, P. McCloskey & Sons, Natures Best and Alltech Beverage Division Ireland Ltd, who were also awarded Best in County. This years finalists and winners got to experience the Blas Village for the first time. Located in the heart of Dingle, this pop-up village was built for producers across the country to come together and celebrate the very best of Irish food and drink for Blass first in-person event in three years. As well as the awards being held here, finalists and winners have had the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers. Finalists and winners showcased their produce in a new tented market each tent highlighting a province in Ireland also a new addition to the festival. Suitably named Eat Ireland in a Day, visitors were able to enjoy the high calibre quality of food & drinks that reached the finalist stage. Speaking after the announcement Artie Clifford, Chairperson and founder of Blas na hEireann said, After a three-year hiatus from an in-person event, having a three-day event with the addition of the Blas Village and Eat Ireland in a Day has been worth the wait. I am really proud of what we hosted online but one thing that was repeated over and over was that people missed being in Dingle. "As well as the excitement of the awards, it has been an intense and fantastic few days of focused networking, catch-ups and creating new connections and I am delighted that we have been able to showcase this exceptional produce to both regular visitors and industry experts in such an approachable and enjoyable way. What a great few days to welcome our Blas family back to Dingle. Now in their 15th year, Blas na hEireann saw a huge increase in entries with almost 3000 products and many new producers entering the awards for the first time. Products from every county in Ireland were entered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in over 150 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer, with 9 producers winning from Louth. Making it as a finalist is a huge achievement and one to be very proud of, says Artie Clifford, Chairperson and founder of Blas na hEireann. The competition ramps up year on year, meaning those producers who are short-listed as finalists really are the creme de la creme of Irish food and drink. "This year it was not just the excellent food and drink that has been celebrated but the people themselves, our passionate and resilient producers. It has been quite a homecoming for our Blas family and we are looking forward already to doing it all over again next year. A winter ban on no fault evictions is needed according to Deputy Ruairi O Murchu as new figures show a continued rise in the number of people in Louth who are homeless. He said the latest Department of Housing homeless report shows a sustained rise in the number of adults and children in emergency accommodation in August in Louth. There were 108 people, including 38 children, in Department of Housing funded emergency accommodation at the end of August in Louth. This is an increase of nine people, including five children, on the July figures. Deputy O Murchu said: "Across the state, all categories of homelessness are up, including families and single people. "With social housing targets not being met and more single property landlords leaving the market, this is a dire and worsening crisis. "The news comes in a week when the Minister for Housing, Darragh OBrien, failed to get any increase in social housing targets included in Budget 2023 nor funding for any new initiative to prevent homelessness. "Minister OBrien must immediately introduce a winter ban on no fault evictions. He should follow the lead of Nicola Sturgeon in Scotland who introduced an emergency winter ban on evictions. "The Minister also needs to accelerate the tenant-in-situ scheme to prevent more families becoming homeless and increase and accelerate the delivery of social, affordable and cost rental homes. "The housing crisis is devastating the lives of people in Louth. People here deserve better and they need to see the government deliver real and meaningful change. "We are still dealing with unaffordable rents. What we got from government in the budget was an insufficient tax credit but no ban increases." The Dundalk TD also spoke about housing issues in Leinster House last week. He said: "The reality is there are a very large number of people on very low wages and they are literally being excluded from the social housing list on the basis of anomalies that might appear in their income in a particular year because of shift allowances and so on. "This may leave them in a set of circumstances where they cannot rent. I am aware of a number of people in Dundalk in the past while who have been refused in a situation where a circumstance has changed. "Previously, local authorities were able to make a determination on the basis of a four-week period. "Now it is done over the entire year, so if anything was to happen, for example, if there was a period where a person was working extra time, and sometimes this can be required in healthcare setting, then their place on the waiting list is void and they are incapable of getting themselves on the housing list. They are absolutely screwed and are really on borrowed time." More than 100 domestic abuse coercive control reports are being received by police in Northern Ireland a month following the introduction of a new offence. Coercive control, which is punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment, became a criminal offence when new legislation within the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021), came into force in February. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it is now receiving, on average, over 100 reports a month of domestic abuse with controlling and coercive behaviours. To date the police have arrested and charged more than 170 perpetrators of this domestic abuse offence. Controlling behaviour includes isolation, being exploiting financially, deprived of basic needs, or being humiliated, frightened or threatened. Detective Superintendent Lindsay Fisher urged those suffering to come forward to police. Statistics suggest that it takes, on average, 35 incidents before a victim will come forward and report to police. So, we know there are so many people out there who are suffering in silence, she said. We will continue to raise awareness of all forms of domestic abuse and encourage reporting. Abusers in these cases are so incredibly manipulative, making their victims believe that what is happening to them is somehow their fault. We want to make it clear that domestic abuse, in any form, is never the victims fault. Not all abuse is physical. Just because a person is not covered in bruises doesnt mean theyre not being abused. If youre walking on eggshells, or have no control over your own life, this is also abuse and we can help you. Police can be contacted by telephoning 101, or by calling 999 in an emergency. A 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline is also available to anyone who has concerns about domestic or sexual abuse, now or in the past. The number to call is 0808 802 1414. Europe has experienced its worst bird flu crisis ever this year with almost 50 million poultry culled, according to the EU's Food Safety Agency. The persistence of the virus over the summer has also raised the risk of widespread infections next season. BirdWatch Ireland said it is very concerned by the increasing number of reports of sick and dead seabirds that it has been receiving in the past month. Gannets, in particular, appear to be badly affected. It is feared that many of these cases may be due to the virulent strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, that is currently circulating in many parts of Europe and which has in particular devastated breeding seabird colonies in the UK and on the continent. An unprecedented number of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus detections were reported in wild and domestic birds from June to September in Europe, according to the latest overview by EFSA, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the EU reference laboratory. In previous years, no cases or only a few cases were detected during the summer period. The overall 20212022 HPAI season has produced the largest epidemic so far observed in Europe. Between 11 June and 9 September 2022, 788 HPAI virus detections were reported in 16 EU/EEA countries and the United Kingdom with 56 in poultry, 22 and 710 in captive and wild birds, respectively. The unusual persistence in wild birds continued throughout the summer and occurred in 15 European countries. The virus reached sea bird breeding colonies on the north Atlantic coast, causing massive mortality, particularly in Germany, France, Netherlands, and the UK. Heavily infected wild birds presented an ongoing risk of infection for domestic birds too. From June to September, the number of outbreaks in domestic birds declined compared to previous months, but was more than five times higher compared to the same period the year before. With cases detected in poultry and wild birds up to September, the current epidemic is clearly still ongoing. As autumn migration begins and the number of wild birds wintering in Europe increases, they are likely at higher risk of HPAI infection than previous years due to the observed persistence of the virus in Europe, said Guilhem de Seze, Head of the Risk Assessment Production Department at EFSA. EFSA recommends the rapid implementation of suitable and sustainable HPAI mitigation strategies, including appropriate biosecurity measures and surveillance strategies for early detection. Medium to long-term prevention strategies should be considered in densely populated areas and in poultry production systems highly susceptible to avian influenza exposure. Another Zimbabwean has died after succumbing to injuries sustained in an attack by a South African mob in Limpopo province recently. This takes the number of Zimbabweans killed in the horrific attack to four, after three others died after being burnt by a mob in the Elim area on September 17. They had accused them of stealing solar panels and accessories. It is also reported that 113 other Zimbabweans were left displaced following violent attacks on migrants by locals in that area. Zimbabwes Consul-General to Johannesburg Mrs Melody Chaurura said they had since dispatched a team on the ground. She said repatriation processes for the deceased were underway. We have dispatched a team to Elim following reports of the burning to death of three Zimbabwean nationals in Tshavani village, in Elim, Limpopo province, she said. The incident took place on 17 September 2022. They have established that indeed three Zimbabwean nationals were burnt to death on 17 September 2022 following accusations of theft of solar panels and electric cables. Two of the deceased Zimbabweans were positively identified by their biological relatives as Johan Munago and Amon Munago from Chivi area in Zimbabwe. One of the three bodies is yet to be positively identified. Mrs Chaurura identified the fourth victim as Tops Mutanho also from Chivi, who succumbed to injuries sustained after the mob attack. He was assaulted after being allegedly found in possession of stolen copper cables. Mrs Chaurura said dockets relating to the cases were opened at Waterval Police Station. But no reports on the arrest of suspects have been received. Added Mrs Chaurura: The Mission further established details of 113 Zimbabweans who had been affected by the community violence. However, this number was not exhaustive because there were reports of several other people who had been displaced, but kept themselves in hiding for fear of further violence and detection by law enforcement agents. Mrs Chaurura said the consulate team succeeded in engaging local authorities and relevant stakeholders with a view to ensure that peace was restored in the community. She said there were also consultations on the provision of temporary shelter for the displaced families. In addition, the repatriation documents were issued to those whose resolution was to return to Zimbabwe. For this category, the Mission extended an offer for government funded repatriation and family reunification assistance, said Mrs Chaurura. The Consulate stands ready to continue working closely with local authorities to ensure the protection of Zimbabwe nationals in various communities. Mrs Chaurura said consultations were still underway using the established platforms of dialogue, with a view to develop strategies that will see an end to such heinous acts. The ultimate objective is to ensure peaceful co-existence among communities, she said. Mrs Chaurura encouraged Zimbabweans in South Africa to establish contact with the Embassy and the two Consulates in times of distress in order to enable them to knowledgeably engage the host government authorities for necessary support. Zimbabweans in South Africa were also called upon to uphold the good image of the country by desisting from engaging criminal activities. We call upon our compatriots to commit themselves to hard work, bearing in mind that we are the custodians of brand Zimbabwe in our individual capacities, said Mrs Chaurura. It is, therefore, imperative for us all to espouse the highest standards of integrity in our daily routines. Herald EBRD to help MADARA Group improve its new B2B beauty platform, selfnamed.com New platform to boost access to sustainable beauty products and reduce CO 2 emissions MADARA is the first SME in the Baltic states to benefit from EBRD support The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is helping MADARA Cosmetics Group, Latvias leading manufacturer of organic, sustainable beauty products, to strengthen its new business model and contribute to a sustainable beauty market. The Bank will assist the company in improving its new business-to-business white-label beauty product platform, which will reduce energy use and the CO 2 emissions associated with product development and delivery. MADARA is the first SME in the Baltic states to benefit from EBRD support and the initiative will be funded by the European Union (EU)s Horizon 2020 programme. Through its subsidiary, Cosmetics NORD, MADARA has launched a new self-service platform, www.selfnamed.com, which aims to make circular and clean beauty available across Europe and to create eco-conscious white-label cosmetic products on demand, through an innovative print-on-demand business model. With fast lead times and no minimum order quantity, the platform makes sustainable skincare products more available and reduces over-production. As part of its support package, the EBRD will finance improvements to the selfnamed.com platform and enhance the digitalisation of the business model. New drop-shipping functionality and the integration of selfnamed.com with ecommerce platforms such as Shopify and WooCommerce will help reduce transport CO 2 emissions and lower entry costs for new brands, as products can be shipped directly from the manufacturer to the end customer. A mock-up generator will allow customers individual designs to be placed automatically on product images, doing away with the need for printing samples and photo shoots, reducing resources and costs. MADARA Cosmetics Groups warehouse facilities, powered fully by green electricity, will be used for its storage and drop-shipping activities, further reducing the firms carbon footprint. The EBRD is committed to helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to achieve sustainable resource efficiency and to innovate in three areas vital to the economies in which the Bank invests: energy, water and materials. Through its Green Innovation Programme (GIP), funded by Horizon 2020, the EBRD helps firms in the EU-12 countries conduct research, development and deployment activities, as well as invest in products, technologies and business models that have a positive green economy transition impact. We are delighted that MADARA Cosmetics Group has become the first SME in the Baltic region to benefit from EBRD support, said Ian Brown, EBRD Associate Director and Head of the Baltic States. Its commitment to sustainability mirrors the Banks own ethos, and we are happy to help MADARA Cosmetics Group become even more green and digital. Our joint work will enable the more efficient use of resources for MADARA Cosmetics Group and its clients, while also contributing to a greener and more efficient beauty industry. We are pleased to partner with the EBRD, an organisation whose commitment to sustainability matches our own, said Uldis Iltners, CEO of MADARA Cosmetics Group. The EBRDs support will enable us to strengthen our new business model and increase access to circular and clean beauty for everyone in Europe and beyond. The EBRD has been working in Latvia since the country regained its independence in the early 1990s. To date, the Bank has invested almost 1 billion in the country through 99 projects. New EBRD 23 million credit line to Sparkasse Bank Makedonija in North Macedonia Funds for on-lending to small, local businesses 30 per cent of the credit line to finance green investments The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting the green economy in North Macedonia by providing a 23 million loan to Sparkasse Bank Makedonija (SMB) for on-lending to local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The loan will enable SMB to expand its MSME lending with a focus on regional and rural enterprises. 30 per cent of the credit line will go to investments that can help small businesses improve their energy efficiency, or generate and shift to renewable energy. MSMEs account for more than 90 per cent of all enterprises in North Macedonia, and are key not only to the countrys economic growth, but to its transition to a green economy. Providing them with access to finance is thus key to unlock this transition and growth. Andi Aranitasi, EBRD Head of North Macedonia, said: We are very pleased that, together with our longstanding partner Sparkasse Bank Makedonija, we can provide additional support to SMEs to invest in the competitiveness of their businesses as well as measures that will improve their energy efficiency and lower their carbon footprint. Strengthening the SME sector and investing in the green economy are some of our key priorities in North Macedonia and this new financing will help us in reaching both of these objectives. Sanel Kusturica, SBM's Chief Executive Officer, said: Today, SBM strengthened even further its long-standing partnership with EBRD, signing an agreement for long-term financing in the amount of EUR 23 million. With this credit line, SBM will enhance the support to micro and small and medium-sized enterprises in financing sustainable projects and investments related to renewable energy. We maintain strong support of the Macedonian economy, and together with our customers, we are dedicated to overcoming and minimizing the negative effects of the energy crisis. Sparkasse Bank Makedonija AD Skopje ("SBM") is a universal commercial bank and the 4th largest bank in North Macedonia, with 11.4% market share by total assets. It is considered a systemically important bank domestically, as per the criteria of the National Bank of North Macedonia. The EBRD is one of the leading institutional investors in North Macedonia. To date, it has invested nearly 2.5 billion in 165 projects in various sectors of the economy. EBRD lends PLN 350 million (75 million) to Santander Consumer Bank Loan extended under the Polish Residential Energy Efficiency Financing Facility Home improvements to range from solar panels to boilers The EBRD is providing a senior loan of up to PLN 350 million (75 million equivalent) to Santander Consumer Bank S.A. (SCB) to help homeowners in Poland improve the energy and resource efficiency of residential buildings. SCB will on-lend the EBRD funds through local-currency loans to private individuals to finance eligible energy-saving and renewable energy sub-projects in residential buildings. These projects will include the installation of photovoltaic solar panels, the replacement of coal-fed boilers, the thermal insulation of external partitions and similar improvements, in line with minimum performance requirements. Melis Ekmen Tabojer, Director for EU Banks and Structured Finance in the EBRDs Financial Institutions Group, said: We are proud to sign this agreement and expect significant interest in the market for the energy and resource-efficiency loans our funds will finance. The EBRD is pleased to note increasing awareness of the importance of sustainable and green development in many of the economies in which it operates. Elisabetta Falcetti, EBRD Regional Director for Central Europe and the Baltic States, said: The start of the heating season puts todays agreement in timely context. We look forward to working with a strong partner such as Santander Consumer Bank in order to reach as many investors in residential energy efficiency as possible. The loan is being provided through the Polish Residential Energy Efficiency Financing Facility (PolREEFF), under which the Bank has earmarked 200 million for energy efficiency in homes. In Poland, the residential sector consumes about 40% of the countrys primary energy, mainly for heating, and about half of pollution comes from old coal-fired boilers. PolREEFF is aligned with the national Clean Air Priority Programme to replace outdated heating and modernise single-family homes, launched in 2018. SCB is a consumer bank focusing mainly on retail clients and operating exclusively in Poland. It is 60 per cent owned by Santander Bank Polska and 40 per cent by Santander Consumer Finance. SCB has already distributed an EBRD loan for residential energy efficiency, which it on-lent for larger projects. The new loan will be disseminated among many more customers in much smaller amounts. This will require SCB to train its staff and introduce new systems. To this end, SCB will receive technical support, financed by the TaiwanBusiness-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund and the Polish government through the EBRD-EU Special Fund. Promoting the low-carbon economy is a central focus of the EBRDs work in Poland, where the EBRD has invested 11.8 billion to date. As permitted by paragraph 2.6 of Section III of the Access to Information Policy, disclosure of this PSD was deferred in accordance with paragraph 1.4.4 of the Directive on Access to Information. Project Description Up to EUR 50 million holding level loan to R4R Poland Sp. z o.o. ("Resi4Rent", or the "Company"), a limited liability company incorporated in Poland for financing development and operation of a pipeline of apartments for rent across Poland. The project is considered under the Resilience and Livelihoods Framework, a EUR 2 billion package which was adopted by the EBRD after the Russian invasion in order to support Ukraine and other affected countries. This project was approved in the context of the Bank's response to the Russian-led invasion of Ukrainian territory in February 2022. To avoid delays to the delivery of this project, the Bank's President granted a deviation from the ordinary timelines for PSD disclosure, as contemplated by Section V of the Directive on Access to Information. Details of this deviation, and the Bank's response to this situation, can be found on our website. Project Objectives The operation will help to improve the housing situation in Poland, which was recently exacerbated by the war on Ukraine and the inflow of Ukrainian refugees to Poland. The proceeds from the planned financing will be utilized to finance the development and operation of a portfolio of apartments for rent located across Poland in Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, Gdansk, Lodz and Poznan. Currently, the Company operates in Private Rented Sector with ca. 2,450 units, and according to its business plan aims to build a platform with 10,000 operating units by 2025. Transition Impact ETI score: 65 The expected Transition Impact will contribute to the "Inclusive" and "Green" qualities. Inclusive Quality - The project will broaden access to housing as vital infrastructure for sustaining human capital and livelihoods among host and refugee communities alike and will address structural imbalances within the Polish housing market, with a substantial undersupply of units further exacerbated by the war on Ukraine. Green Quality - The Bank's funds will be used to finance the development and construction of a pipeline of green buildings in Poland, and will result in Green Certification of a number of new assets at BREEAM In Use "Very Good" level. Client Information R4R POLAND SP ZOO EBRD Finance Summary EUR 50,000,000.00 Additionality The Bank's Additionality stems from: innovative financing structure; risk mitigation, as the financing is provided during the times of high political and economical turbulence in the region caused by the war on Ukraine; and alignment with overall additionality terms of the Resilience and Livelihoods Framework aimed at supporting Ukraine and other affected countries. Environmental and Social Summary Categorised B (2019 ESP). The key E&S risks and impacts are associated with the construction and operation of 7,700 additional residential flats for rent countrywide are readily identifiable and can be mitigated through relevant environmental and social risk management. The Environmental and Social due diligence (ESDD) has been undertaken by ESD and included an assessment of the Company's capacity as well as their management systems and procedures. Information provided by the Company indicated compliance with national and EU environmental, health and safety and labour requirements, as well as sufficient capacity to manage the project in line with EBRD requirements. Given that the relevant legal requirements in Poland are aligned with the EU standards, the risks related to the operation of these assets are limited. The Company partner's, Echo Investment, responsible for property development, and Griffin Capital Partners, responsible for operation of the assets, are large companies with broad experience in the sector. Both partners have implemented relevant management systems to control E&S impacts addressing inter alia, labour management, worker and community health and safety during construction works, GBVH, life and fire safety issues, energy efficiency, stakeholder engagement, and land acquisition. The latter had worked with EBRD on past projects and improved their E&S procedures through timely and satisfactory implementation of an Environmental and Social Action Plan (ESAP). An ESAP has been developed to maintain compliance with the Performance Requirements. Specific actions include completing audits for life and fire safety of residential assets upon completion of new buildings and commitment to BREEAM certification. The Bank will monitor the Project's environmental and social performance through a review of an annual report and site visits as required. Technical Cooperation and Grant Financing Not applicable. Company Contact Information Rafal Ryba rryba@r4r.pl +48 608 577 449 https://r4r.pl/en/ ul. Litewska 1, 00-581 Warszawa, Polska PSD last updated 05 Oct 2022 Understanding Transition Further information regarding the EBRDs approach to measuring transition impact is available here. Business opportunities For business opportunities or procurement, contact the client company. For business opportunities with EBRD (not related to procurement) contact: Tel: +44 20 7338 7168 Email: projectenquiries@ebrd.com For state-sector projects, visit EBRD Procurement: Tel: +44 20 7338 6794 Email: procurement@ebrd.com General enquiries Specific enquiries can be made using the EBRD Enquiries form. Environmental and Social Policy (ESP) The ESP and the associated Performance Requirements (PRs) set out the ways in which the EBRD implements its commitment to promoting environmentally sound and sustainable development. The ESP and the PRs include specific provisions for clients to comply with the applicable requirements of national laws on public information and consultation as well as to establish a grievance mechanism to receive and facilitate resolution of stakeholders concerns and grievances, in particular, about environmental and social performance of the client and the project. Proportionate to the nature and scale of a projects environmental and social risks and impacts, the EBRD additionally requires its clients to disclose information, as appropriate, about the risks and impacts arising from projects or to undertake meaningful consultation with stakeholders and consider and respond to their feedback. More information on the EBRDs practices in this regard is set out in the ESP. Integrity and Compliance The EBRD's Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (OCCO) promotes good governance and ensures that the highest standards of integrity are applied to all activities of the Bank in accordance with international best practice. Integrity due diligence is conducted on all Bank clients to ensure that projects do not present unacceptable integrity or reputational risks to the Bank. The Bank believes that identifying and resolving issues at the project assessment approval stages is the most effective means of ensuring the integrity of Bank transactions. OCCO plays a key role in these protective efforts, and also helps to monitor integrity risks in projects post-investment. OCCO is also responsible for investigating allegations of fraud, corruption and misconduct in EBRD-financed projects. Anyone, both within or outside the Bank, who suspects fraud or corruption should submit a written report to the Chief Compliance Officer by email to compliance@ebrd.com. All matters reported will be handled by OCCO for follow-up. All reports, including anonymous ones, will be reviewed. Reports can be made in any language of the Bank or of the Bank's countries of operation. The information provided must be made in good faith. Access to Information Policy (AIP) The AIP sets out how the EBRD discloses information and consults with its stakeholders so as to promote better awareness and understanding of its strategies, policies and operations following its entry into force on 1 January 2020. Please visit the Access to Information Policy page to find out what information is available from the EBRD website. Specific requests for information can be made using the EBRD Enquiries form. Independent Project Accountability Mechanism (IPAM) If efforts to address environmental, social or public disclosure concerns with the Client or the Bank are unsuccessful (e.g. through the Clients Project-level grievance mechanism or through direct engagement with Bank management), individuals and organisations may seek to address their concerns through the EBRDs Independent Project Accountability Mechanism (IPAM). IPAM independently reviews Project issues that are believed to have caused (or to be likely to cause) harm. The purpose of the Mechanism is: to support dialogue between Project stakeholders to resolve environmental, social and public disclosure issues; to determine whether the Bank has complied with its Environmental and Social Policy or Project-specific provisions of its Access to Information Policy; and where applicable, to address any existing non-compliance with these policies, while preventing future non-compliance by the Bank. Please visit the Independent Project Accountability Mechanism webpage to find out more about IPAM and its mandate; how to submit a Request for review; or contact IPAM via email ipam@ebrd.com to get guidance and more information on IPAM and how to submit a request. A CARE home for older people in east Cork has been given top marks by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) in a recently published report. HIQA carried out a one-day unannounced inspection of Ballincurrig Care Centre in Leamlara on June 8. The report was published on September 22. All care homes are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with national guidelines. The care provider is Ballincurrig Care Centre Limited, a part of the Silver Stream Healthcare Group. The centre is located in the rural setting of Ballincurrig, a short distance from Midleton. It is registered to accommodate a maximum of 55 residents and there were 49 residents on the date of inspection. Ballincurrig Care Centre provides 24-hour nursing care to male and female residents whose dependency ranges from low to maximum. The report states: From the observations of the inspectors and from speaking with residents, it was evident that residents were supported to have a good quality of life in the centre. Residents told the inspectors while staff were kind and caring, they were adjusting to the increased turnover of staff in the centre that happened with the recent changes in management and ownership in the centre. The inspector observed some improvements were required to ensure residents safety and experience was promoted at all times. The centre was warm throughout and there was a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. During the walkaround, the inspectors saw that staff were attending to residents personal care with some residents still in bed while a small number of residents were up and sitting in the day room or walking around the centre. It was evident to the inspector that the person in charge knew the residents and their care needs during the walkaround. However, there were some improvements to be made. While the centre was bright and warm throughout, inspectors saw that carpets in the centres corridors and a number of bedrooms were worn and stained and in some areas lifting resulting in a potential trip hazard to residents. "Inspectors noted a malodour from some carpeted rooms and corridors. Flooring in a number of residents ensuites was also in need of repair as it was seen to be cracked and worn. Ballincurrig Care Centre was deemed compliant in 16 out of 20 categories, fully compliant under the capacity and capability regulations, and mostly compliant with quality and safety issues. A garda dealing with a woman causing a row at the emergency unit of Mercy University Hospital was abused as she told him to f*** off, you f***ing pig. Natalie Woods, aged 34, of Annalee Grove, Mayfield, Cork, was so abusive and aggressive, ignoring warnings to calm down, that incapacitant spray had to be used on her. Woods pleaded guilty to charges arising out of several incidents. Judge Colm Roberts said the one at Mercy University Hospital was the most serious. He imposed a jail term of six months. This was a pretty significant, serious abuse of staff and An Garda Siochana. The accused pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening behaviour and being intoxicated to such an extent that she was a danger to herself or others. Woods has numerous previous convictions. Diarmuid Kelleher, solicitor, said that the accused had an extremely difficult upbringing and background and was victim of very serious assaults. He said she suffered a very bad facial injury, suffered from cross- addictions, including heroin. Judge Roberts said of the defendant: At the present moment she needs to get things over with and get a level of focus and forthrightness about what she needs to do on her release from prison. As well as the disturbance at the Mercy Hospital, Woods also pleaded guilty to other offences. She was caught shoplifting at Aldi in Mayfield. On another occasion she had 50 worth of heroin for her own use when taken into custody by Garda Frank Ryan at Cork District Court. Woods came to garda attention at Rose Hill in Sundays Well where she was drunk and a source of danger. And she was found in a similar condition at Annalee Grove in Mayfield. Mr Kelleher said the defendant had been doing better for a time but then lapsed in heroin use and got into further difficulties that saw her being brought before Cork District Court. SHE was unremarkable-looking; an American tourist. It was her voice, and more specifically, what she was saying that left me standing with my mouth open. I was on the top floor - more a ledge, really - of a picturesque lakeside medieval ruin in Kerry when a couple walked into the old castle. It was a small place and the womans loud, confident voice carried easily to the stone ledge just above, where I stood admiring the view. Really, though, the Irish were just followers, werent they? she declared. Her male companion murmured something. The woman made another disparaging remark about the general lack of initiative and mojo on the part of the Irish race, but much of it was lost in the great boiling which rose up in my ears. Followers, were we? I was outraged. I watched them as they stood with their backs to me gazing out over the lake. After a while the couple started up the ancient stone stairs towards me. The stairway was so narrow that there was no room to pass, so I had to wait for them to come up. The man was first. Probably because I was standing quietly at the top of the castle I suppose, he greeted me genially, in what, I realised with some amazement was an Irish accent: Youre the McCarthy Mor, the King, are you? I looked him in the eye, then. Goodness no, I said coldly. Im just a follower. You know, us Irish; all just followers? In the silence that resulted I went down the stairs and left the ruin without looking back. I was seething. How dare she? And how could he, who at least appeared to be as Irish as myself, allow her to speak about his own people like that? Heres what I would have said to her, had I the opportunity. Well start, Missus, with the Voyage of St Brendan. This is the monk, who legend has it, discovered your own good land of America around 1,500 years ago. Some serious scholars believe that St Brendan the Navigator and a small band of fellow monks travelled by curragh from the Kerry coast to North America in a boat built of wattle and covered with hides which had been tanned in oak bark and softened with butter. Brendan set up a mast and a sail and was gone for years. Sceptics dismissed even the possibility that such a small, frail vessel could have sailed right across the open Atlantic until the mid-1970s, when Tim Severin proved it could be done. Others of note: Christina Noble, who dedicated her life to helping children in Vietnam and Mongolia. Wolfe Tone. Mary Robinson. Robert Emmet. Katie Taylor. Mary McAleese. John Tyndall, the scientist who discovered infrared radiation. Anne Devlin, who refused, under torture to give information to the British about Robert Emmet. Grainne Mahol. James Joyce. William Butler Yeats. Rosie Hackett, who founded the Irish Womens Workers Union 1911 because the Irish trade unions of the time wouldnt include women. Padraig Pearse. Anne Bonny, the Cork-born pirate. Mary Harris Jones or Mother Jones who emigrated from Cork to the US as a child and worked as a schoolteacher and dressmaker before becoming a renowned orator and union organiser, community organizer, and activist. Jones helped coordinate major strikes and co-founded the Industrial Workers of the World. Saoirse Ronan, Graham Norton. Ah sure look, you could go on for ever. The hundreds and thousands of starving souls who had their land and homes grabbed from them as part of what we have yet to publicly acknowledge was a brazen policy of genocide and ethnic cleansing; the poverty-stricken, abused and victimised hordes who struck off without a bob across the Atlantic - many on board the notorious coffin ships - to carve out new lives and find freedom and fortune in America. And of course, lets not forget what happened a few centuries earlier. Between 1652 and 1659 the 50,000-plus Irish men, including priests, women, including nuns and children of all ages were transported to Barbados and Virgina to be branded and sold at public auction for a life of hell - work on the plantations and for use as sex slaves and on human stud farms. As part of his policy of the ethnic cleansing of Ireland, and on hearing that the British-born planters in Barbados were weary of maroon sex slaves and would pay any price for a white woman, Cromwell volunteered to supply their needs. Gangs of his soldiers pounced on women and girls and drove them in gangs to Cork, from where they were taken to Bristol, publicly sold in the market, and thrust on board ship for the West Indies. This initiative only stopped when Cromwell realised his man-catchers were running out of Irish prey and were starting to kidnap British people living in Ireland. One of these white Irish slaves was a man called Red Legs Greaves. In the 1600s, Greaves was among those who fought against Cromwells invasion of Ireland. He was defeated, became an outlaw, was captured and eventually shipped out with 300 others to Barbados as part of Cromwells plan to provide slaves to the English sugar planters. Sold to a planter notorious for his extreme cruelty, Greaves was frequently flogged for insubordination and was eventually sent to hard labour on the Bridgetown docks. Despite the tight security maintained at the wharves, Greaves and three friends spotted a likely vessel and slipped their chains by greasing their legs with tallow. They killed the watchmen and set sail for the notorious pirate haven of Tortuga, with only some bread and a cask of water they found on the ship. A hundred miles out they were intercepted by a pirate ship captained by a renowned French buccaneer, LOlonnais. He was amazed to be hailed in French by the tall red-haired man in the small boat. The four white slaves were invited on board and enrolled in the crew. Meanwhile, the Irish, both servants and slaves, were at the centre of many of the rebellions in Barbados up to the end of the 17th century this was born out by several statements from governors who warned that the Irish were continually trying to incite their fellow field-workers to rebellion. And did. And suffered horribly for it. Anyway Missus, thats only the tip of the iceberg. Followers, are we? Bad cess to you. I RETIRED from An Garda Siochana in May, 2015, so you would think by now the trials and tribulations of that organisation wouldnt bother me too much, but they do. I am currently out of the country, and instead of lying by the pool enjoying the sun, Im sitting in the apartment bashing the keys on my laptop. The source of my frustration comes from the footage I viewed on social media of an incident in Cherry Orchard in Dublin, where a garda patrol car was rammed by a stolen car while a crowd of onlookers clapped and cheered. Other cars could be seen driving recklessly performing stunts, to the amusement of a group of young people standing on the side-line. Fortunately, nobody was seriously hurt this time. The incident itself wasnt new to me. I saw plenty of it in the 1980s and early 90s in Dublin and Cork. Stolen cars entertained gangs of onlookers on a regular basis back then too, and I witnessed one incident where a stolen car crashed head on into a patrol car, injuring both gardai. So- called joyriding was a regular activity in those days. What really annoyed me was the official response from our authorities to that Cherry Orchard event. Garda Commissioner Drew Harris described the incident as disgraceful and very concerning and warned others not to engage in copycat activities. He said a full investigation was underway and the public order unit had been stood up. Its fairly obvious that the incident was disturbing and very concerning, and sending in the public order unit is a reactive response that unfortunately wont prevent this kind of thing happening again. Its a short-term fix, not a long-term solution, but not everyone has the appetite for long-term strategies. The Taoiseach Micheal Martin had the answer though. He said: I think more specifically theres a multi-layered response that is required to this, in terms of both making sure we put services in and continue to add services and empower the community to deal with this from a bottom-up approach, and from a community-based approach, and support the gardai in terms of resources. He added: The gardai will get a handle on this, they will be able to deal with this. Weve dealt with similar episodes in the past in different locations around the country. "There are ways of dealing with this, as I say, in the multi-layered way through community interventions, through supporting various services, but also then making sure the gardai have the resources, both at the community level and in terms of specialist services to deal with the issues. When you dig through all that waffle, what hes actually saying is that we need to get back to basics. State and voluntary agencies need to work with the various communities to develop relationships and regain the respect and trust of the people on the ground, especially the young people. That sounds like a plan that could work. In fact, we know for certain it could work because its exactly what we did in Cork back in the 90s and the noughties with great success. At least that was until the then garda commissioners, and the politicians of the day flushed it down the toilet. Having spent the bones of 20 years in community policing, I have some idea of whats involved in supporting communities. That model we had in place a quarter of a century ago was developed over years of trial and error and was replicated in other areas to great effect. It was based primarily on mutual respect, but that respect didnt just appear overnight, it was hard won. Communities had been let down previously and were slow to trust this new concept of community policing, but anti-social behaviour and crime were spiralling out of control, and people were looking for answers. It took 15 years or so to bring about change. Models of best practice were developed involving the community, the local authority, gardai, youth workers, community wardens and the department of justice. That resulted in youth projects for the marginalised, diversion projects for those on the verge of criminality along with other initiatives. And they worked. The tide eventually turned thanks to the hard work and commitment of many dedicated people who had a genuine belief in what they were doing, and thats why Im so annoyed today. All that hard work was for nothing. When the economic crash happened, the model as we knew it was discarded and since then there has been a steady decline in community engagement. Were seeing the consequences of that short-sightedness now. The clock has been wound back 20 years and I fear there is a new wave of unrest ahead and no amount of waffle will prevent it. The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, said the ramming of the garda car was absolutely unacceptable. She wants a co-ordinated response and has already been engaging with the commissioner, local gardai, and the local authority to make sure there is a comprehensive response and plan in place to support the community. She wants to make sure gardai are working with local authorities and local communities to get to the heart of some of these issues. One councillor, from Clondalkin, said: We need a new approach to dealing with these kids. If there is no intervention at a very early stage, they just become lost to crime. I have news for her. We figured that out in the 1980s and its not a new approach thats needed but a return to the old one. Ms McEntee is far too young to remember the models we had in place back then, but if she is serious about her commitment to community engagement, she should talk to the people who do. Leaders from around the world have extended warm congratulations on the 73rd founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China, expressing their wishes for the success of the upcoming 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and the nation's future development. Many of the leaders conveyed their messages in letters or phone calls to President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee. Kim Jong-un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, extended warm congratulations to Xi, the CPC, and the Chinese government and people. Kim said that the upcoming 20th CPC National Congress will become a new milestone in China's socialist development, and it is his belief that the Chinese people's dream of national rejuvenation will come true under Xi's leadership and with the Chinese people closely united around the CPC. Thongloun Sisoulith, general secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and the Lao president, said that Laos is paying close attention to and is eagerly looking forward to the convening of the 20th CPC National Congress. He expressed his belief that under the strong leadership of the CPC with Xi at its core, the Chinese people will make new and greater achievements in the new journey toward China's second centenary goal of building a great modern socialist country in all respects, and successfully realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that on the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, he extended his most sincere and friendly congratulations, and wished success to the upcoming 20th CPC National Congress. On behalf of his government, US President Joe Biden congratulated the People's Republic of China on the 73rd anniversary of its founding, noting that he joins the US people in wishing all of the Chinese people peace and prosperity. Indonesian President Joko Widodo extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Xi, the Chinese government and the Chinese people, expressing his belief that the two countries will continue to expand and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly contribute to international and regional prosperity and stability. He said that he looks forward to working closely with Xi in deepening bilateral friendship and cooperation in various fields, advancing bilateral relations, and working together to enhance the well-being of the peoples of the two countries. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev extended his sincere congratulations to President Xi and the Chinese people, saying that he firmly believes that the 20th CPC National Congress will provide new and strong impetus for China's development, and open new and broad prospects for China to continuously enhance its role as a major country. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his cordial greetings and warm congratulations to Xi, the Chinese government and people, reaffirming that South Africa is ready to further consolidate and strengthen the friendship and strategic partnership between South Africa and China. Csaba Korosi, president of the 77th session of the UN General Assembly, congratulated China on its achievements in promoting development and prosperity. "As a founding member of the UN and a permanent member of the Security Council, China has been a strong buttress to the blue flag (of the UN)," Korosi said, adding that he was also pleased to hear of China's support for efforts to combat climate change. These leaders were among a host of heads of states, governments and international organizations, as well as other prominent foreign officials who expressed their good wishes on the 73rd birthday of New China. Extensive celebrations Government officials and various sectors in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region pledged full confidence in the city's future, as an array of activities were held in the city to mark National Day. Speaking at a reception on Saturday to mark the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said "one country, two systems" has provided institutional safeguards for the city's prosperity and stability and the SAR always has strong backing from the motherland. On Saturday, national flag-raising ceremonies were held by Hong Kong SAR government departments, Hong Kong-based central government departments, local universities and communities in different districts. A grand variety show was staged at the Hong Kong Coliseum in Hung Hom on Saturday night to mark National Day. Chinese embassies in various countries also held events to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of New China. And celebrations of China's National Day have for the first time reached space, as the Shenzhou XIV astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station sent a message wishing a happy birthday to their motherland. In a video released on Saturday, Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe commemorated the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China from space. They expressed gratitude to the Chinese people for their support and to the great era, and vowed to accomplish their tasks "to fill space with the glory of the motherland". Xinhua contributed to this story. United Family International Church (UFIC) leader Emmanuel Makandiwa has torched a storm after one of his sermons went viral on social media, in which he appeared to sanitise corruption. In the clip, the UFIC leader said: Some of you dont understand. Some of you hear what has not been said. Its like you have me saying there is no corruption happening. Thats what you would have heard. Why do you misinterpret. Corruption has different levels. There is a certain level where there will be US$10 billion for road construction, of which US$5 billion is swindled and US$5 billion is used for the construction. That corruption is different from other corruption because all of the US$10 billion could be squandered. Zimbabweans quickly reacted to the sermon saying Makandiwa was seemingly siding with corrupt government officials. Others described him as a fake prophet. Exiled former Cabinet minister Jonathan Moyo tweeted: Not here. Papa dont be a rolling stone. The 50/50 quota is for gender equality, not for corruption parity. Another Twitter user, Joseph Samanyara said: On this one, he totally lost it! Corruption should never be justified because that money is being paid by taxpayers and must fully benefit the taxpayers. Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development programmes manager John Maketo said: We stand against all forms of corruption. Centre for Natural Resource Governance director Farai Maguwu said if government did not sincerely deal with corruption affecting Zimbabwe, the country would remain poor. Corruption is corruption, it must not be classified. We cant sanitise the looting of US$5 billion because the other US$5 billion was reportedly used for the intended purpose, Maguwu said. Meanwhile, in his sermon, Makandiwa also said: Zimbabwe is rising bit by bit, whether Satan likes it or not. We are walking in prophetic steps. From morning until midnight, we are seeing those in power doing what was revealed to us, but God will support until you get embarrassed. If you were a prophet like me, you would do the same. Maguwu, however, said it has now become very difficult to distinguish between Makandiwa the preacher and Makandiwa the politician. These are inflammatory political statements which have nothing to do with the gospel of Jesus Christ. People must be encouraged to create industries and not take what does not belong to them. That is theft and is against the teaching of scriptures, Maguwu added. Newsday Kenneth Fox Secondary school teachers are being offered training in how to lead classroom lessons about alcohol by Drinkaware, an organisation funded by the alcohol industry. As the Irish Examiner reports, addiction experts and advocates say that Drinkaware is working with schools against the advice of the HSE and the Department of Health. Drinkaware, with funders including Diageo, Bulmers Ireland, and Heineken, confirmed that, to date, 15,000 first-year to third-year students have gone through its schools programme. The HSE co-ordinator of drug and alcohol services in counties Cork and Kerry, David Lane, is to write to every secondary school in the region this week, urging them against sending teachers to take part in Drinkaware programmes. Mr Lane said: "We dont support Drinkaware or anybody else from the drinks industry running training programmes for teachers, or in terms of running their kinds of programmes in our schools." Schools should be a no-go area for the alcohol industry, according to Alcohol Forum Ireland national lead for community, Paula Leonard. We wouldnt let the tobacco industry in the door of our schools to teach our children how to smoke sensibly, said Ms Leonard. It would be socially unacceptable, it would be unacceptable to the Minister for Education, it would be unacceptable to parents, because we now have a population awareness of the strategies of the tobacco industry. The issue was recently raised with Education Minister Norma Foley by Social Democrats co-leader Roisin Shortall. 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. Boston has become the largest municipality in the U.S. to ban astro turf in city parks. The reason? The artificial grass is made with the toxic forever chemicals known as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are linked to a host of negative health effects from cancer to immune suppression to reproductive problems. The city has a preference for grass playing surfaces wherever possible and will not be installing playing surfaces with PFAS chemicals moving forward, the office of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement to The Guardian. The ban was announced in an August 26 update on improvements to Malcolm X Park in the Roxbury neighborhood. Mayor Wu has directed that no new artificial turf fields will be installed in the City of Boston, the update read, before explaining why this would require changes to the planned design of the parks playing fields. Astro turf fields are one of many products from non-stick cookware to raincoats that have been linked to PFAS, a class of chemicals that have been widely used since the 1940s, especially in stain-, grease-, or water-resistant items, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. When these products are made or used, the PFAS can enter the ground, air or water where they do not break down but instead remain. Because of their persistence, they have been found in the blood of humans and animals, food products, and even rainwater and the blood in umbilical cords. In astro turf, PFAS are used to make the artificial grass blades flexible enough for extrusion, the process of shaping plastics by forcing them through a die, according to the Environmental Working Group. When Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility and the Ecology Center tested eight different samples of turf in 2019, they all tested positive for fluorine, which is an indicator that PFAS are present. Finding astro turf without the forever chemicals can be a challenge, as the city council of Portsmouth, New Hampshire learned the hard way when it contracted a company to install a PFAS-free field, according to E&E News. Testing on the turf by Non Toxic Portsmouth before it was even installed revealed fluorine, and further testing by the City Council found 135 parts per trillion of the forever chemical perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), which is now well above the safety-level for PFOS in drinking water recently established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. There are currently around 12,000 astro turf fields in the U.S., according to government estimates reported by The Guardian, but more and more municipalities are moving to ban or halt their installation, including several in Connecticut, two in Californias Bay Area and at least four others in Massachusetts. We already know there are toxic chemicals in the products, so why would we continue to utilize them and have children roll around on them when we have a safe alternative, which is natural grass? Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai environmental health professor Sarah Evans asked, as reported by The Guardian. For the people of Boston, the answer was clearly, Why, indeed? 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. Brazils tense presidential election has gone into a runoff that will take place on October 30, 2022. Environmentalists and experts globally are concerned about the Amazon rainforest should the far-right current president Jair Bolsonaro win re-election against Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, a left-wing candidate and former president of Brazil. According to Bloomberg, Lula received 48.4% of votes and incumbent Bolsonaro received 43.2%. With neither candidate receiving a majority of over 50%, the election will head into a second round at the end of the month. Many surveys predicted a win for Lula, but Bolsonaro received more support than expected during the votes on Sunday, October 2. More than 123 million Brazilians voted in the first round of the election, which had long lines from higher security measures and a higher than expected voter turnout. Over 13,000 square miles of Amazon rainforest has been deforested under Bolsonaro, who has held the office since 2019. Bolsonaro has strongly supported agricultural and mining activities in the rainforest and has reduced funding for government agencies tasked with enforcing rainforest conservation measures. Under his leadership, the Amazon has been closing in on an irreversible tipping point from the damage of forest clearing and fires. Lula was president of Brazil from 2003 to 2010. During his time as president of Brazil, Amazon deforestation saw a decrease, and Lula was a widely popular politician globally. But he was imprisoned in 2018 for a corruption scandal, of which he still maintains his innocence, the previous year. The scandal damaged his reputation, but he has promised to reinstate forest protections. For those frustrated with the far-right policies of Bolsonaro, Lula may also gain additional support. As Brazil's election goes into a second round and run-off between left-winger Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and far-right candidate Jair Bolsonaro, we take a look at what the election result could mean for the fate of the Amazon https://t.co/qNTMJiEWYl Climate Home News (@ClimateHome) October 3, 2022 Everything that Lula has said, and even his track record, would indicate that hes going to undo the brutal regressions of the Bolsonaro regime, Christian Poirier, program director of the nonprofit Amazon Watch, told Vox. The election has major implications for the Amazon and climate change. An analysis from Carbon Brief says that a win for Lula could reduce Amazon deforestation by 89% over the next decade. A win for Bolsonaro could lead to the Amazon reaching a point of no return. If he remains in power in 2023, no one should expect that Bolsonaros war against the Amazon, Indigenous people, environmental legislation, including the Forest Code, and science to monitor forests and land use [to] change, Carlos Rittl, a senior policy advisor at Rainforest Foundation Norway, told Carbon Brief. Brazil is ranked insufficient for its climate action by Climate Action Tracker. While it has a goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, the countrys long-term energy plans include expansion of fossil fuels. It is also on track for increased deforestation in the future, especially if Bolsonaro were to win re-election later this month. 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 Flashes of Wigan and Leigh, former coal mining sites, are now biodiverse wetlands. They were officially declared a National Nature Reserve on Oct. 3, 2022. Wigan Council / Facebook A former industrial wasteland in Manchester, England, has officially been designated an 1,824-acre nature reserve that will provide 300,000 locals with access to nature, a press release from Natural England and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said. The Flashes of Wigan and Leigh will become one of Englands most extensive urban nature reserves and will provide protected habitat for endangered bitterns a relative of the heron water voles and 52 pairs of willow tit. The patchwork of meadows and wetlands consisting of marshy grassland, swamp, reedbed, wet woodland and tall herb fen will become part of the National Nature Reserves network. National Nature Reserves help reconnect people with our natural world, providing much needed opportunities to explore our incredible landscape for our health and wellbeing, said Chief Executive Officer of Natural England Marian Spain, as BBC News reported. Highlight of the week (and its only Monday!): declaring the Flashes of #Wigan and #Leigh Britains newest #NationalNatureReserve. The first in #GreaterManchester and one of the biggest ever. A joyful occasion for people and nature. pic.twitter.com/z19WydqZzV Marian Spain (@MarianSpain) October 3, 2022 A gradual sinking of land due to mining led to the formation of lakes that became habitat for species, the press release said. The Wigan and Leigh nature reserve highlights the transfiguration of the Flashes over the past century. The designation will be the first for Greater Manchester. In addition to protecting wildlife, it is hoped the new nature reserve will become a site for sustainable tourism, as residents already cycle, fish, birdwatch and go on nature walks there. In 2019, Englands natural capital was estimated to have a value of $1.35 trillion. A healthy natural environment and economic growth go hand in hand. By working together to build strong partnerships such as those we see here in the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh, we can provide space for rare species and provide vital greenspace. That will make Wigan and Leigh great places to live and great places to do business in, Spain said, as reported by About Manchester. According to the press release, the new nature reserve in Wigan combines 13 sites, including Amberswood, Three Sisters, Wigan Flashes and Bickershaw Country Park, plus Viridor woodland, which was planted more than two decades ago by Forestry England. Englands National Nature Reserves were created not only to protect habitats for threatened species, but for use as outdoor laboratories for schools, the public and special interest groups to be exposed to wildlife and preserving nature. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the first of Englands nature reserves, of which there are now 220 covering more than 254,519 acres. The reserves will help with the UK governments goal of stopping the decrease in wildlife populations by 2030. The unique wetlands in Wigan and Leigh were forged by nature reclaiming former industrial land. Todays designation demonstrates how it is possible to reverse the decline in nature, Spain said in the press release. 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. Wetlands like this one in Californias Morro Bay Estuary shelter fish, animals and plants and help control flooding. Citizen of the Planet / UCG / Universal Images Group via Getty Images By Albert C. Lin The U.S. Supreme Court opens its new session on Oct. 3, 2022, with a high-profile case that could fundamentally alter the federal governments ability to address water pollution. Sackett v. EPA turns on a question that courts and regulators have struggled to answer for several decades: Which wetlands and bodies of water can the federal government regulate under the 1972 Clean Water Act? Under this keystone environmental law, federal agencies take the lead in regulating water pollution, while state and local governments regulate land use. Wetlands are areas where land is wet for all or part of the year, so they straddle this division of authority. Swamps, bogs, marshes and other wetlands provide valuable ecological services, such as filtering pollutants and soaking up floodwaters. Landowners must obtain permits to discharge dredged or fill material, such as dirt, sand or rock, in a protected wetland. This can be time-consuming and expensive, which is why the case is of keen interest to developers, farmers and ranchers, along with conservationists and the agencies that administer the Clean Water Act the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Supreme Court has already shown a willingness to curb federal regulatory power on environmental issues. From my work as an environmental law scholar, I expect the courts decision in this case to cut back on the types of wetlands that qualify for federal protection. The Sackett Case Idaho residents Chantell and Mike Sackett own a parcel of land located 300 feet from Priest Lake, one of the states largest lakes. The parcel once was part of a large wetland complex. Today, even after the Sacketts cleared the lot, it still has some wetland characteristics, such as saturation and ponding in areas where soil was removed. Indeed, it is still hydrologically connected to the lake and neighboring wetlands by water that flows at a shallow depth underground. In preparation to build a house, the Sacketts had fill material placed on the site without obtaining a Clean Water Act permit. The EPA issued an order in 2007 stating that the land contained wetlands subject to the law and requiring the Sacketts to restore the site. The Sacketts sued, arguing that their property was not a wetland. In 2012, the Supreme Court held that the Sacketts had the right to challenge EPAs order and sent the case back to the lower courts. Now, after losing below on the merits, they are back before the Supreme Court. The current issue is whether the Sacketts property is federally protected, which in turn raises a broader question: What is the scope of federal regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act? This graphic shows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction over discharging dredged or fill material into wetlands under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Coverage of isolated wetlands without a surface connection to rivers, lakes or harbors is less clear. USACE What Are Waters of the United States? The Clean Water Act regulates discharges of pollutants into waters of the United States. Lawful discharges may occur if a pollution source obtains a permit under either Section 404 of the Act for dredged or fill material, or Section 402 for other pollutants. The Supreme Court has previously recognized that the waters of the United States include not only navigable rivers and lakes, but also wetlands and waterways that are connected to navigable bodies of water. However, many wetlands are not wet year-round, or are not connected at the surface to larger water systems, but can still have important ecological connections to larger water bodies. In 2006, when the court last took up this issue, no majority was able to agree on how to define waters of the United States. Writing for a plurality of four justices in U.S. v. Rapanos, Justice Antonin Scalia defined the term narrowly to include only relatively permanent, standing or continuously flowing bodies of water such as streams, oceans, rivers and lakes. Waters of the U.S., he contended, should not include ordinarily dry channels through which water occasionally or intermittently flows. Acknowledging that wetlands present a tricky line-drawing problem, Scalia proposed that the Clean Water Act should reach only those wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are waters of the United States in their own right. In a concurring opinion, Justice Anthony Kennedy took a very different approach. Waters of the U.S., he wrote, should be interpreted in light of the Clean Water Acts objective of restoring and maintaining the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nations waters. Accordingly, Kennedy argued, the Clean Water Act should cover wetlands that have a significant nexus with navigable waters if the wetlands, either alone or in combination with similarly situated lands in the region, significantly affect the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of other covered waters more readily understood as navigable. Neither Scalias nor Kennedys opinion attracted a majority, so lower courts have been left to sort out which approach to follow. Most have applied Kennedys significant nexus standard, while a few have held that the Clean Water Act applies if either Kennedys standard or Scalias is satisfied. Regulators have also struggled with this question. The Obama administration incorporated Kennedys significant nexus approach into a 2015 rule that followed an extensive rulemaking process and a comprehensive peer-reviewed scientific assessment. The Trump administration then replaced the 2015 rule with a rule of its own that largely adopted the Scalia approach. The Biden administration has proposed a new rule that would deem waters of the United States present if either a significant nexus or continuous surface connection is present. Whats at Stake The courts ultimate ruling in Sackett could offer lower courts, regulatory agencies and landowners clear direction on the meaning of waters of the United States. And it will likely affect the governments ability to protect the nations waters. A broad interpretation could include many agricultural ditches and canals, which might obligate some farmers and ranchers to apply for Section 404 permits. It could also ensure oversight of polluters who discharge pollutants upstream of federally protected waters. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments this fall in Sackett v. EPA, in which the justices are expected to either affirm the test for Clean Water Act jurisdiction, or scrap it.https://t.co/wrProetQN1 Bloomberg Law (@BLaw) June 1, 2022 The Sacketts assert that the permitting process imposes significant costs, delays and potential restrictions on property use. In response, the Biden administration contends that most landowners can proceed under general permits that impose relatively modest costs and burdens. In my view, this courts anti-regulatory bent and the fact that no other justices joined Kennedys concurring Rapanos opinion suggest that this case will produce a narrow reading of waters of the United States. Such an interpretation would undercut clean water protections across the country. If the court requires a continuous surface connection, federal protection would no longer apply to many areas that critically affect the water quality of U.S. rivers, lakes and oceans including seasonal streams and wetlands that are near or intermittently connected to larger water bodies. It might also mean that building a road, levee or other barrier separating a wetland from other nearby waters may be enough to remove an area from federal protection. Congress could clarify what the Clean Water Act means by waters of the United States, but past efforts to legislate a definition have fizzled. And todays closely divided Congress is unlikely to fare any better. The courts ruling in Sackett could offer the final word on this issue for the foreseeable future. Albert C. Lin is a professor of law at the University of California, Davis. Disclosure statement: Albert C. Lin was a trial attorney for the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the U.S. Department of Justice from 1998 to 2003. He served as a law clerk to the Honorable Merrick Garland of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and to the Honorable James Browning of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. National Spokesperson of All India Trinamool Congress, Saket Gokhale, penned a letter to Minister of External Affairs, Government of India, Dr S Jaishankar today, October 3, 2022, regarding the plight of 14,000 Afghan students studying in India who have been waiting for their Indian visas. Gokhale highlighted how, since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, the Indian Embassy closed its operations. The Indian Embassy in Kabul was fully operational in June 2022. Since then, 300 visas have been issued to religious minorities. However, not a single visa has been issued to Afghan students enrolled in Indian varsities who have already missed one full year of education, he states. "We in India take great pride in our educational institutions. The fact that over 14,000 Afghan students study in India is a matter of great pride as well as a validation of the quality education available in our country," he goes on to write. Gokhale sought the minister's attention to ease the trouble of these 14,000 students who have been waiting for their Indian visas. "Their fate hangs in the balance for no fault of theirs. He requested the minister to "expedite the process of granting them visas." Afghan students recently gathered in front of the Indian Embassy in Kabul to make their plight known and have been using hashtags like #IssueVisaToAfghanStudents on Twitter to draw attention to their plight. US' BioFeyn co-hosts Salmon School and Technology Showcase in Lovund, Norway US feed innovator BioFeyn and startup investor Olaisen Blue co-hosted the Salmon School and Technology Showcase for investors, startups, industry leaders and producers to highlight innovation and sustainability in salmon aquaculture. Fifty-four investors, innovators, producers and technical experts met in Lovund, Norway, to attend the event. To highlight innovation within the industry, the event included site visits to salmon farms and feed facilities, cutting-edge technology demonstrations, lectures and roundtables on the future of sustainability, feed and nutrition, corporate partnerships and opportunities in the Arctic. Olaisen Blue, which bears the long-recognised name of the Nova Sea owning Olaisen family, was established in 2021 and is the family's new vehicle for startup investment. BioFeyn, a feed-focused American biotechnology company, is one of their inaugural investments and the winner of the 2022 NCE Aquaculture Innovation Award. "Too many ocean startups overlook direct interactions with the ocean and people who work with the sea when developing new solutions. We want to enable entrepreneurs access to the local industry, so they can develop applied solutions with real impact," said Stine Svanevik, chief executive officer of Olaisen Blue. The need for rapid innovation in aquaculture feed was a pervasive theme throughout the event. "Feed is both a problem and opportunity for the industry. If you can figure out feed, you can figure out the fish and unlock billions in value for everyone across the value chain," said Dr. James Anderson, former head of aquaculture and fisheries at World Bank and BioFeyn's advisor. Innovators like BioFeyn are applying advanced technologies to enhance feed efficiency with the ultimate aim of reducing resource use, waste, carbon emissions and cost. "I've worked in over 50 countries to improve the health of animals, people and the environment," said Dr. William Karesh, One Health's founder and BioFeyn investor. "The feed sourcing challenges of the salmon industry are similar to those of other farmed species and the only real way to fix them is find more feed or increase efficient use. "The second option is the obvious choice for our world today and is why I'm so excited to be a part of the BioFeyn team." Other innovators represented at the event included Probotic, a Norwegian technology company automating net maintenance with subsea drones, and Undersee, a Portuguese water quality monitoring company deploying sensor-based forecasting. Each startup has made significant advances since participating in the Olaisen Blue accelerator in Spring 2022. - The Fish Site Total number of cattle and sheep in Ireland has increased so far this year Provisional data from the Irish June Livestock Survey has found that the total number of cattle and sheep in the country has increased so far this year compared to the same period in 2021, the UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Ireland now has 7.4 million cattle, an increase of 0.5% (37,300 head). Within this, there were 1.6 million dairy cows, up 1.4% (22,800 head), while there were 913,000 beef cows, down 2.9% (27,100 head). This resulted in a 2.5 million cow herd overall, which was essentially stable year over year (-0.2%). These changes maintain the longer-term trend in Irish cattle numbers, which has seen the dairy herd grow and the suckler herd decrease. The Irish dairy herd has grown by 14% (194,600 head) since 2017, while the suckler herd has decreased by 16%. (167,800 head). Regarding other cattle, the number of animals aged 2 years and older increased overall by 2.4% (17,100 head), while that of animals aged 1-2 years increased by 2% (38,100 head). A decrease in male cattle was the main factor in the 0.5% (11,500 head) decline in the number of calves under the age of one year. As supplies have increased, Ireland's cattle slaughter rates have risen thus far in 2022; Bord Bia, the Irish state agency with the aim of promoting sales of Irish food and horticulture both in Ireland and abroad, notes that for the year ending on September 17, Irish prime cattle slaughter is 6% higher than it was for the same period a year prior. To reach almost 6 million head, the Irish sheep flock increased by 6.4% (358,200 head) from June 2021. This continues the upward trend in sheep populations seen in recent years; since 2017, the national flock has increased by 15%. (770,500 head). Within this, breeding ewe numbers increased by 5.5% (155,000 head) due primarily to an increase in ewes 2 years of age and older. Other (non-breeding) sheep populations increased to 2.9 million, up 7.6% (204,600 head) from the previous year. - UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board Malaysian chicken farmers won't boost production until lifting of export ban confirmed Chicken farmers in Malaysia said they will not increase production for export to neighbouring Singapore until the lifting of the chicken export ban has been confirmed, The Straits Times reported. Under the condition of anonymity, the farmers explained to The Straits Times that they fear the ban will be extended once more, leaving them with an excess of chickens and financial losses. This implies that when the ban is eventually lifted, Singapore might not be able to immediately obtain a full supply of fresh chickens from Malaysia. Malaysia first banned the export of chicken on June 1 due to a lack of domestic supply. There is currently no set end date for the ban, which was initially scheduled to be lifted in July but was postponed to August and then October. A farmer who primarily sells to customers abroad said they have been kept in the dark and are unsure of what will occur when, adding that farmers are already considering how to move operations to Indonesia because they no longer believe in the government's promises. About 3.6 million chickens per month were exported from Malaysia to Singapore, covering a third of the chicken market in Singapore. After the ban, Indonesia was permitted to export frozen, chilled, and processed chickens to Singapore in June by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). Indonesia has considered establishing farms in Batam to export fresh chickens to Singapore. Before beginning exports to Singapore, Malaysian farms must receive approval from the nation's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries. In July and August, farmers increased their output in anticipation of the end of the ban. But the surplus was sold at a loss. Farmers looking to resume exporting are now being more cautious, according to Lau Ka Leng, secretary of the Johor Poultry Breeders Association. He said they are awaiting a definite date. The SFA has approved 115 Malaysian chicken farms for export of live chickens to Singapore. 91 of these farms are located in Johor state. - The Straits Times A HARARE man landed in the dock over the weekend for allegedly stealing cement worth US$500 000 that he had been entrusted with by his business partners. The suspect, Clayton Musasiwa, of Carrick Creigh in Borrowdale, was not asked to plead when he appeared before Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi. The complainant is businessman Tafadzwa Zvikomborero Rugara. Allegations are that in June last year, Musasiwa approached Rugara with a business proposal of importing cement from Zambia for resale in Zimbabwe. The parties agreed to enter into an agreement. The terms of the agreement were that Rugara, and his partner Jerry Botha, who is based in South Africa, would import the product and Musasiwas duty was to market it when its delivered in Zimbabwe. It is the States case that during the same month, Musasiwa gave Rugara the Lafarge Zambia company bank account, and between June last year and July this year, Rugara imported 1 230 tonnes of cement worth US$500 000. The cement was allegedly received by Musasiwa, who sold the product to various wholesalers and hardwares and converted the money to his own use. Musasiwa failed to account for the money or product upon demand, but acknowledged owing Rugara US$50 000 only. H Metro THE joy that the Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officer, Patience Muchineripi (30), and her family have, has no bounds after she gave birth to quadruplets in about 50 minutes last week. The babies, three boys and one girl, were delivered by a scheduled cesarean section. Prison Officer Muchineripi welcomed a set of healthy quadruplets at Claybank Private Hospital in Gweru on Wednesday morning under the watchful eye of her specialist gynaecologist, Dr Johannes Mukwembi. At around 10.35AM, the cesarean operation was done after which the first baby was welcomed into the world. In about 50 minutes, the other babies were also delivered bringing joy to PO Muchineripi, her family and friends as well as members of staff at the hospital. PO Muchineripi and her bundles of joy were then monitored by a pediatrician as well as Dr Mukwembi from the day of delivery to yesterday when they were finally discharged. There was joy and happiness at the hospital when the mother and her babies were seen off to their waiting vehicle by hospital medical staff, relatives, fellow workmates, friends and her husband, Anesu Mukototsi (36) who is also a member of the ZPCS. PO Mukototsi took his wife and the babies home in Kwekwe. The quadruplets join their big sister who is 10. For most couples, the birth of a baby means joy and twins mean more joy and so having quadruplets means boundless joy. I am filled with boundless joy and happiness but I am tired now. Talk to my husband, said the media shy Muchineripi. PO Mukototsi could only say theirs was an extraordinary moment that turned out so well. We could not have asked for a better outcome. We are so thankful to all the doctors and nurses. Weve had excellent care through every step of this process, said PO Mukototsi. He said the children were a blessing from God as they were some form of compensation since he has no siblings to talk of since he was lone child before his parents passed on. I was the only child from my family and as fate would have it, both my parents are late. If they had lived up to this day, they would be celebrating having five grandchildren, said PO Mukototsi. He said the major challenge he now faces is to do with accommodation. These babies need special attention and we dont have accommodation that is enough for them. I think we will also need supplementary milk and diapers to make their life comfortable, said PO Mukototsi. Dr Mukwembi said the caesarian delivery was not that difficult but said preparations for more than a single baby are a bit complex. The preparation is more complex than the surgery itself. We had to work on the hospital preparedness and pediatrician to see the babies post caesarean surgery itself, he said. Dr Mukwembi said he had to ensure they had the right equipment and bedding. We had to make sure there is a special ward for the mother and the babies, he said. Dr Mukwembi said it was very rare to give birth to quadruplets adding that for him, it was his first time to deliver four babies. I have, however, done a few triplets deliveries in my career, he said. Dr Mukwembi said the quadruplets were delivered at about eight months so as not to put their lives and that of their mother in danger. I monitored them from Wednesday until Sunday when I discharged them, he said. PO Muchineripis mother Gogo Madiwa, putting two of the babies on her lap said the birth of her grandchildren were evidence of the existence of God. I have been blessed, my daughter was given these blessings and I have seen that God is there for real and today I will pray more, she said Herald A MEMBER of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) died on Saturday night, while three others were arrested during a shootout with police in Birchenough Bridge following a botched armed robbery at Nehanda business centre in Bikita. National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said he was yet to check the details. ZNA spokesperson Colonel Alphios Makotore said he was not aware of the incident and could not confirm whether the man killed and the three arrested were army personnel. But according to a police internal memorandum seen by NewsDay, the ZNA members were arrested together with four civilian accomplices. The deceased was identified as Elliot Kandiyero (27), whose rank in the ZNA was not established, while those arrested were identified as Private James Keriphanos Makombe (22), Lance Corporal Oswald Kaseke (27) and Corporal Maxwell Kuwanda (32). The soldiers were stationed in Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare. The four civilians are Peter Chiripiwako (33), Owen Dzinduwa (26), Collius Kamuti (40) and Timothy Mawere (29). One of the suspects, Moses Tengera, escaped during the shootout which occurred at around 8pm in Birchenough Bridge. Police recovered a Mossberg rifle serial number 46B159, 3x12 bore live rounds of ammunition, a 24 pound hammer and a machete from the gang. According to the memo, police reacted to a tip-off that the accused persons were intending to commit an armed robbery at Nehanda business centre in Bikita. Following the tip-off, police arrested four suspects linked to the planned robbery and took them to ZRP Bikita, where they were interrogated by detectives from CID Homicide Harare and CID Nyanga. The accused persons were arrested while waiting for their five accomplices who were armed so that they could carry out the robbery. Detectives then proceeded to Birchenough Bridge business centre and spotted the accused persons who were using a Toyota Cresta vehicle registration number ADE 8291. When the police identified themselves, the accused persons bolted out of the vehicle. Kandiyero, who was armed with a Mossberg rifle, opened fire on the police together with Tengera, who escaped while firing shots from a suspected revolver. Police returned fire, injuring Kandiyero who was rushed to Birchenough Bridge District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Three accomplices were arrested on the scene, while Tengera escaped. Newsday New home for critically endangered parrots Manx charity, Supporters of the Curraghs Wildlife Park (SCWP), has built a new aviary for the Parks critically endangered Lilacine parrots, Lila and Chester. The new home provides a lot more flight space for these colourful and charismatic parrots as well as a cosy nest box and lots of branches to climb. Lila has been at the Park for a while and is 23 years old but her new partner arrived from Chester Zoo earlier in the summer and is only a few years old. These parrots can live for 50 years and pair for life and, so far, Lila and Chester are getting on very well. With only a few thousand of these birds left in the wild in Ecuador, population management within zoos is essential to secure their survival. Kathleen Graham, General Manager of the Curraghs Wildlife Park said: SCWPs work parties help us provide the extras that make the Park a great environment for our visitors and animals. We are part of a network of 400 zoos which work together to manage populations of endangered animals in our care. We hope that the new aviary with encourage Lila and Chester to breed, thus contributing to our conservation aims. Coinbase users were unable to carry out US bank account transactions for around six hours on Sunday. An issue with the Automated Clearing House Network, which is used for electronic transfers between bank accounts in the country, emerged just before 7AM ET. The company said on its status page that it identified the problem, described as a "major outage," by 8:23AM and resolved it by 12:41PM. During the outage, users were still able to buy cryptocurrency with a debit card or PayPal account, as Decrypt noted. However, they weren't able to make withdrawals to a US bank account. Weve fully resolved this issue and ACH transfers are now processing. We apologize for the inconvenience. https://t.co/dezVgcaagm Coinbase Support (@CoinbaseSupport) October 2, 2022 Weve fully resolved this issue and ACH transfers are now processing. We apologize for the inconvenience, Coinbase wrote on Twitter. The company said users' funds were safe during the outage (at least if you don't factor in the volatility of the crypto market). As Web3 is Going Great points out, Coinbase is the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the US. It's in seventh place worldwide in terms of trading volume, per CoinCecko. At the time of writing, Coinbase users had traded $572 million over the previous 24 hours. As of today , a data-sharing pact between the US and the UK is in effect, five years after it was first floated . The two sides claim that the Data Access Agreement, which was authorized by the Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data (CLOUD) Act in the US, will help law enforcement to combat serious crimes in both countries. The Department of Justice called the initiative the first of its kind, adding that it would enable investigators "to gain better access to vital data" to fight serious crimes in a manner that's "consistent with privacy and civil liberties standards." Under the agreement, authorities in one country can request data from ISPs in the other country, as long as it's related to preventing, detecting, investigating and prosecuting serious crimes including terrorism, transnational organized crime and child exploitation. US officials can't submit data requests targeting people in the UK and vice-versa presumably the requests can either be used to assist domestic investigations or investigations into foreign nationals. Authorities also need to adhere to certain requirements, limitations and conditions when they access and use data. The UK Home Office's Investigatory Powers Unit will oversee the Data Access Agreement in the UK, while the DOJ's Office of International Affairs (OIA) will handle matters in the US. The OIA has put together a CLOUD team that will review and certify orders on behalf of federal, state, local and territorial authorities. It will directly submit orders to ISPs in the UK and ensure data is transferred to authorities who requested it. Turn on browser notifications to receive breaking news alerts from Engadget You can disable notifications at any time in your settings menu. Not now Turned on Turn on Privacy advocates have blasted the initiative and the CLOUD Act. In 2018, just after the bill was introduced, the Electronic Frontier Foundation said it "creates a dangerous precedent for other countries who may want to access information stored outside their own borders, including data stored in the United States." Fight for the Future argued that it would threaten user privacy. Over-the-Counter Medication for Tension Headache Relief Just about any over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, or analgesic, can offer relief for tension headaches, says Jack M. Rozental, MD, PhD, an associate professor of neurology and a headache specialist at Northwestern Universitys Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. Medication that contains only one drug, like Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin are effective headache treatments, he says, as are those that include a combination of aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine. These pain relievers may also provide relief for hangovers and for headaches related to sinus infections or COVID-19. Some people who have migraine attacks also find them effective, particularly if taken at the first sign of an attack. How quickly OTC pain relievers work depends in part on what formulation you take. For example, liquid medicines, orally disintegrating tablets, and chewable tablets will work faster than extended-release pills. How full your stomach is when you take these pain relievers matters, too, with a fuller stomach slowing absorption of the medication. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you choose among the many OTC pain relievers on the market to make sure youre using a product thats safe for you and is likely to help. Frequent use of OTC analgesics and caffeine-containing medications can lead to medicationoveruse headache (see below), so judicious use is recommended. Prescription Painkillers for Frequent Tension Headaches For those people who have frequent or recurring tension headaches, doctors sometimes recommend prescription-strength doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Indocin (indomethacin), an NSAID that is available only by prescription, is "usually used for arthritis, but can also be very useful as a headache treatment," Dr. Rozental says. "Indomethacin's downside is that it is among the drugs most likely to cause gastric irritation as a side effect," including stomach ulcers and bleeding. It can also harm kidney function if taken at high doses or chronically. Treatments for Quick Migraine Relief Treating migraine symptoms right away can shorten the attack, which otherwise can last from hours to days. The types of medications that can alleviate symptoms once a migraine attack has started are known as acute, or abortive, medications. These include OTC pain relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen, prescription medications called triptans, and a new class of drugs called CGRP receptor antagonists. Not everyone with migraine will respond to all of these drugs. You may need to try several before finding the drug or combination of drugs and the doses that work best for you. Triptans There are currently seven triptan drugs available in the United States: almotriptan (Axert), eletriptan (Relpax), frovatriptan (Frova), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), sumatriptan (Imitrex), and zolmitriptan (Zomig). All triptans are available in pill form; two, sumatriptan and zolmitriptan, come as a nasal spray; and one, sumatriptan, is sold in an injectable form. Triptan injections start working in about 10 minutes, nasal sprays start working in 10 to 15 minutes, and most pills start working in 30 to 60 minutes, although the longer-acting triptans, frovatriptan and naratriptan, take one to three hours to start working. CGRP receptor antagonists Sometimes referred to as gepants, two CGRP receptor antagonists, rimegepant (Nurtec ODT) and ubrogepant (Ubrelvy) are available for acute treatment of migraine. Both are oral tablets that start reducing pain in about one hour. These drugs may be alternatives for people who cant take triptans or dont get relief from them. Lasmiditan (Reyvow) Lasmiditan is also available as an oral tablet and can alleviate migraine pain in as little as an hour. Because lasmiditan works differently from triptans, it may also be an alternative for people who cant take triptans or dont get relief from them. Dihydroergotamine (DHE) Intravenous DHE is commonly used in emergency departments to relieve intractable migraine. For home use, its available as a nasal spray, Migranal and Trudhesa, and an injection, D.H.E. 45, and is most effective when taken soon after the onset of migraine symptoms for attacks that typically last longer than 24 hours, according to the Mayo Clinic. While Migranal and Trudhesa contain the same drug, Trudhesa delivers the drug higher in the nasal cavity, an area rich in blood vessels, meaning it should start working faster. Ergotamine Combinations of ergotamine and caffeine Cafergot, sold as a tablet, and Migergot, a rectal suppository are less effective than triptans at resolving migraine pain but may be appropriate for some people. They can relieve pain within 30 minutes, according to MedlinePlus. Neurostimulation devices A nondrug option for migraine treatment is a neurostimulation, or neuromodulation, device, which delivers electric or magnetic pulses to nerves that are directly or indirectly involved in pain processing. Several devices targeting different nerves are available, and all can be used for acute treatment of migraine. All are most effective when used as early as possible after the start of symptoms. Anti-nausea drugs The drugs used to treat headache caused by migraine may also relieve other symptoms, including nausea. But if your migraine therapies are not relieving nausea and vomiting, speak to your doctor about prescription anti-nausea drugs. Acute Treatment for Cluster Headaches Given the severity and also the relative brevity of cluster headaches, acute treatments need to work quickly to relieve pain and suffering. According to the neurologist and headache expert Peter J. Goadsby, MBBS, MD, PhD, writing for the American Headache Society, effective acute treatments for cluster headaches include: Inhaled oxygen Injected or nasal triptans Injected dihydroergotamine Topical lidocaine nasal drops or nasal spray According to the patient advocacy group Clusterbusters, high-flow 100 percent oxygen will abort a cluster headache attack within 15 minutes for most people. Another option for treating cluster headache is the drug galcanezumab (Emgality), which in 2019 became the only drug specifically approved for this type of headache. Its also approved for the prevention of migraine attacks. Emgality belongs to a class of drugs known as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antibodies. When used to treat cluster headaches, Emgality is self-administered using three 100 milligram (mg) prefilled syringes, which are taken one after the other at the start of a cluster period and then every month until the end of the cluster period. The nerve stimulation device GammaCore Sapphire is also FDA-approved to treat cluster headache. The device is held against the front of the neck to stimulate the vagus nerve during an attack. Home Remedies to Ease a Headache or Migraine Attack Many headache symptoms can be at least partially alleviated without medication. Here are some tips for homemade headache and migraine relief. Apply an ice pack to your head and neck. Cold compresses on the head and neck are a common home remedy to ease the pain of a migraine attack. Some people also find it helpful for tension headaches. To avoid skin injury, wrap the ice or cold pack in a cloth and apply it for no more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Apply heat to the head, neck, or hands and feet. Applying heat may help relieve a tension headache or dull the pain of a migraine attack, according to the Mayo Clinic. Use a heating pad set on low, a hot-water bottle, a warm compress, or a hot towel. A hot bath or shower may also be helpful, or simply run warm water over your hands and feet. Have a big glass of water. Dehydration can trigger a migraine attack or lead to a nonmigraine headache, says the National Headache Foundation. Replacing the liquids your body needs may help to relieve the pain. Practice a relaxation technique. Meditate, breathe deeply, and try to visualize a peaceful image. "Various relaxation techniques can significantly help patients who suffer from 'muscle contraction' headaches," says Rozental. Give yourself a massage. Massage eases muscle tension, and sometimes helps to reduce headache pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. Gently massage your temples, scalp, neck, and shoulders with your fingertips, or gently stretch your neck. Try acupressure. You may be able to reduce migraine and headache pain by massaging the pressure point located in the V between the thumb and forefinger. Use the thumb of one hand to massage the other hand with a circular motion for 15 to 20 seconds, then switch hands. Drink a caffeinated beverage. In small amounts, caffeine can decrease migraine-related pain in the early stages of an attack or enhance the pain-reducing effects of OTC medication, according to the Mayo Clinic. But dont overdo it: Too much caffeine too frequently can lead to withdrawal headaches if you later cut back quickly. Caffeine can also contribute to medication-overuse headaches (see below). Dab on some peppermint oil. Rub some peppermint oil into your temples or forehead to see if this natural remedy helps reduce your head pain, suggests Migraine.com. Because peppermint oil can cause skin irritation, you may wish to mix a drop of peppermint oil into a teaspoon or two of a neutral oil such as jojoba or avocado oil to dilute it first. Close your eyes and rest. This is an effective treatment for headaches associated with migraine, and it can help ease a tension headache as well. Sit or lie down in a quiet, dark room with your eyes closed and just relax for a bit. "Patients with migraine instinctively seek out a dark, quiet environment in which they can go to sleep for at least a few hours, Rozental says. Sleep frequently diminishes or eliminates the pain." On Monday, the Swedish Coast Guard made an overflight of the locations of the leaks within the Swedish economic zone at around 8 o'clock in the morning. At that time, the larger leak was no longer visible on the surface, while the smaller one instead had increased slightly again. At that time, the smaller leak was approximately 30 metres in diameter. The prognoses based on the on-going discussion with North Stream stated earlier that the leaks will possibly cease on Sunday. Those prognoses can therefore be said to apply to the larger one, originating from Nord Stream 1. The smaller one from Nord Stream 2 is instead slightly larger than yeaterday. The Swedish Coast Guard is prepared within emergency preparedness for a longer perspective. The Swedish Maritime Authority has issued navigational warnings for the area, consisting of recommendations concerning distances to the gas leaks aimed at the maritime traffic. The current warnings are published on the website. The on-going preliminary investigation is led by a prosecutor, the responsible authority for the investigation is the Swedish Security Services. We cannot comment this investigation in detail as there is confidentiality connected to the preliminary investigation. Swedish Coast Guard published that they are also "restrictive in commenting our general capacity as it can be of importance in other areas we work within. We are in contact with Danish authorities due to the fact that there are two similar gas leaks in Danish waters. We will not comment any other nations we are in contact with". Sachin Dave, former Senior Editor with The Economic Times (ET), has joined Thomson Reuters as Asia Editor for Asian Legal Business, a platform aimed at corporate legal coverage. This newly created role will oversee the flagship ALB Asia title, along with ALB Japan and ALB India. ALB focuses on sharp news, features and opinions aimed at the corporate lawyers and those looking to keep abreast of the legal fraternity and the changes in the global law. Dave was formerly Senior Editor with ET in Mumbai and was responsible for tracking corporate finance, consultancies, corporate law, digital economy and financial frauds. Prior to joining ET, he has worked with organisations such as The Times of India, The Indian Express and Hindustan Times. As Asia Editor, he will set the editorial agenda, assign and guide writers on stories, edit and proofread content, rewrite as needed. The editor will oversee the production process and ensure deadlines are met. Responsibilities also include assisting in the production of videos and podcasts, a Thomson Reuters job posting for the role said. Dave has joined the team headed by Ranajit Dam, Managing Editor of Thomson Reuters Legal Media Group and is based in Singapore. He heads editorial teams with members based in India, Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing and Manila. Thomson Reuters is said to be expanding its India presence and has been roping in high-profile journalists and editors. Read more news about (internet advertising India, internet advertising, advertising India, digital advertising India, media advertising India) By Mark Hemingway, RealClearInvestigations September 8, 2022 Since the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in June, Planned Parenthood CEO Alexis McGill Johnson has tried to present new state laws restricting abortion as an opportunity for the nations largest abortion provider. Now that we are in a world where we are no longer defending Roe, she told Time magazine, we have actually an opportunity to reimagine and reconstruct something better. The sense that Planned Parenthood's fortunes are on the upswing is palpable, given the liberal backlash against the Roe ruling -- among women especially -- blowback evident in recent off-year voting and opinion polling. OpenSecrets says the organization reported a 4,000% increase in donations just after the decision, and half of the donations were from new donors. It is planning on spending $50 million on elections this fall, an unprecedented amount for a midterm cycle. But close observers of the abortion debate say theres limited potential for the organization to embrace a broader role for example, in dispensing abortion drugs over providing surgical abortions. Its shift in that direction had been under way long before the Supreme Court ruling, but it faces competitive challenges, since abortion drugs are widely available over the Internet, and new risks, since the drugs more easily evade regulatory scrutiny. Another controversial growth option in Planned Parenthoods future is far afield from pregnancy: distributing hormones used by children and others to change their gender. CEO Johnson has said that providing gender-affirming care is one of the services that is going to become even more important. But that option carries big risks, complications, and uncertainties too. Can Planned Parenthood evolve? For years, despite evidence to the contrary, it has emphasized its versatility, casting its operations as community health clinics that provide a variety of essential health care services, especially contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections. In 2011, Cecile Richards, Planned Parenthoods president at the time, suggested in a television interview that the organization provided mammograms, a point soon repeated by President Obama and others. In 2015, a Washington Post fact checker concluded, The myth that Planned Parenthood actually offers mammogram X-rays to patients has been long debunked, and needs to stop being repeated. An oft-cited talking point from Planned Parenthoods own fact sheet was that 3% of all Planned Parenthood health services are abortion services. In this accounting, the cost of services wasnt taken into account prescribing oral contraceptives at a cost $20 and a second-trimester abortion that costs in excess of $2,000 are both counted as services Planned Parenthood provides, but they are obviously not comparable in terms of the organizations income or incentives. Again, a Washington Post fact-checker declared the 3% figure misleading, dinged the organization for its lack of transparency about abortion services, and gave Planned Parenthood three Pinocchios for the claim. So theres little doubt that abortion is Planned Parenthoods main business. Over the last three decades, its position as Americas leading abortion provider increased markedly, according to James Studnicki, a former professor of public health at the University of North Carolina and Johns Hopkins who is now vice president and director of data analytics for the pro-life Charlotte Lozier Institute. Between 1995 and 2014, abortions dropped 50% at non-Planned Parenthood abortion providers, but Planned Parenthood abortions were up 142%, says Studnicki, summarizing the results of a peer-reviewed paper he published in 2018. By 2019, Planned Parenthood was responsible for about 40% of all abortions in the U.S., compared to 10% of abortions in 1995, Studnicki said. In recent years, the total number of abortions in America has has been increasing, reversing a long trend of historical decline. There were 930,160 abortions in 2020, the Guttmacher Institute reports, an 8% increase from 862,320 abortions in 2017. Nevertheless, Planned Parenthood's reach was diminishing even before the Supreme Court decision, as several states passed laws restricting abortion access -- restrictions the group now thinks it can capitalize upon. Tessa Longbons, a senior research associate at the Charlotte Lozier Institute, said that between June of 2021 and June of 2022, Planned Parenthood closed or merged 25 centers out of approximately 600 facilities the organization runs around the country. Danika Severino Wynn, vice president for abortion access at Planned Parenthood, told The New York Times that more closures are possible in response to the courts June decision: Affiliates in these states that are extremely hostile to abortion access are being forced to make the difficult decision whether or not to suspend providing abortion services following the courts decision, due to their states legal landscape. Planned Parenthood did not respond to RealClearInvestigations request for comment, nor did the Guttmacher Institute, a pro-abortion research group historically affiliated with Planned Parenthood. Regardless of whether Planned Parenthood closes additional clinics or pursues other sources of revenue, its core mission of providing abortions appears unlikely to change although its proportions of chemical and surgical abortions likely will. Nationwide, chemical abortions made up over half of all abortions as of 2020. A number of individual Planned Parenthood affiliates have reported that more than 60% of the abortions they are doing are chemical abortions as opposed to surgical abortions. Chemical abortions typically involve a combination of two drugs mifepristone (aka RU-486), which kills the fetus; and misoprostol, which causes the uterus to shrink, expelling the detached embryo through the vagina. Because women can order these drugs online and self-administer them, it is not clear how Planned Parenthood will be able to dominate the market as it does with surgical abortions, which require doctors and expensive facilities. There are also unresolved legal questions, especially if some states outlaw the sale of these drugs, and liability questions regarding negative outcomes. Currently, abortion drugs are approved by the Food and Drug Administration only through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Though even abortion-rights advocates concede that intense pain and bleeding for two weeks are normal outcomes, advocates are pushing for approval of mifepristone and misoprostol later in pregnancy when the potential for complications increases significantly as the fetus grows larger. Just how common life-threatening side effects are in chemical abortions is disputed. An oft-cited 2009 study on women in Finland published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found one out of every five given abortion drugs in the first trimester experienced a complication, compared with one out of 20 women who underwent a surgical abortion. The most common adverse event was potentially life-threatening hemorrhaging, which represented 16% of the total complications. In contrast, the Guttmacher Institute cites a study published in the pro-abortion journal Contraception showing serious complications requiring hospitalization for infection treatment or [blood] transfusion occur in less than 0.4% of patients under the standard protocol. In 2013, a bulletin from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists noted that researchers in North Carolina were unable to find American volunteers for a study on whether the drugs were effective in midterm abortions because of the trauma and risks involved. American women strongly preferred surgical abortion under anesthesia. Abortion researchers have instead resorted to performing drug trials on women in developing countries. In 2017, Gynuity Health Projects, a New York-based group aligned with Planned Parenthood, began trials on second-term pharmaceutical abortions in Burkina Faso, despite concerns -- voiced even by the study's director in the country -- that critical health infrastructure was lacking to deal with the known potential life-threatening side-effects of chemical abortions, such as the ability to readily provide blood transfusions in the event of hemorrhaging. In June, New York magazine published a series of explicitly pro-abortion features on Life After Roe with the aim of helping women obtain abortions. One of those features was a first-person account of a drug-induced abortion: My gynecologist told me to expect a bad period. The actual problem was, as with so many experiences in womens health care, my doctor didnt adequately prepare me. She told me Id have the cramping and bleeding of that bad period but didnt describe the range and type of pain I might experience. Instead of offering sufficient pain medication or techniques to moderate pain, she prescribed six Tylenol with codeine, though she didnt think Id need them. I did, but who knows if it even helped? My pain came in waves; a grinding in my pelvis, like a mortar and pestle in the range of my pubic bone. (Years later, when I was in labor with my child, I realized Id already experienced early contractionsduring my abortion. Medication abortion can be a sort of in-between of the two experiences, a bad period and birth.) And rather than explaining that I would bleed heavily for days I spent at least 24 hours in a sort of towel cocoon until I felt as if I could bear to wear anything on my bottom half she simply said I would see some clots but shouldnt worry unless I soaked through two maxi-pads in an hour for two hours. After it was all over, I bled for two weeks with more mysterious contents in the pads: material that looked like coffee grounds (Google told me they were tiny clots), larger clots, dark blood, pink blood. Blood loss and the hormonal switching made me exhausted, weak, and bloated. After my termination, physically, I felt off mentally and emotionally, I felt even worse for being so ill-prepared and uninformed. As my husband put it, We didnt even get a f---ing pamphlet. (I should say, my doctor wasnt bad and my experience wasnt atypical.) Last December, the FDA further loosened the safety regulations around mifepristone by removing the previous FDA requirement that the drug be administered in person by a doctor. Those seeking an abortion can consult with a doctor via telemedicine, receive the pills by mail, and go through the process of inducing an abortion without ever setting foot in a clinic. The FDAs decision was announced just 15 days after the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson, the case that would go on to overturn Roe v. Wade when the ruling was announced in June. Pro-abortion rights groups dont discount the risks of opting for an at-home abortion via telemedicine. A Gynuity evaluation of a direct to patient telemedicine abortion service in the United States found 8% of patients in the study given abortion pills via telemedicine ended up going to an ER or urgent care clinic. Further, whether FDA approval of a drug would pre-empt a state ban remains a controversial legal question. When [the FDA] approves an abortion drug for safety and efficacy, it's not talking about safety for the unborn human being obviously, says Edward Whelan, a senior fellow at the conservative Ethics and Public Policy Center. It's talking about safety for the mother and efficacy in killing the unborn human being. And when a state enacts a law barring that drug, it's not disagreeing with the FDA judgment on safety and efficacy. Abortion drugs could create other forms of legal jeopardy, according to Jonathan Mitchell, the former solicitor general of Texas. Its easy to just have a state pass a law that says if you manufacture this drug or distribute it in any way, youre strictly liable for any personal injuries not only to the mother, but also to the fetus, he said. Youll be sued for wrongful death, put out of business, and all you need is one state to do this how many drugs have been taken off the market due to lawsuits over personal injuries that are far less dangerous than this? For now, the regulatory uncertainty is causing some Planned Parenthood affiliates to act cautiously about offering chemical abortion for fear of running afoul of state laws. Montana, where chemical abortion is legal, and the four more restrictive states bordering it provide an illustration. Montana has seen an influx of out-of-state women seeking abortions. But Planned Parenthood of Montana, which runs three clinics in the state, has stopped offering abortion pills to anyone who doesnt live in the state. According to NPR, the president of Planned Parenthood of Montana circulated an internal memo citing concerns about the potential for civil and criminal action. Despite its initial caution, I think Planned Parenthood will find ways to continue to provide chemical abortions even where they don't have facilities available, says Studnicki. As for gender affirming care, its growth has not gone unnoticed by Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthoods annual report for 2018-2019 made no mention of hormone treatments for transgender patients, but its last two annual reports have touted it. According to its most recent annual report, Planned Parenthood has clinics in 33 states and the District of Columbia that provide cross-sex hormones to people who identify as transgender. In 2020, Planned Parenthoods website claimed, Nationally, Planned Parenthood is the second largest provider of Gender Affirming Hormone Care, though that claim has since been scrubbed from its website. About 1.6 million Americans identify as transgender and that number is growing quickly. A report released ethis year by the Williams Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles, shows that the number of young people identifying as transgender doubled between 2017 and 2020 and now represents between 1.3% and 1.4% of all Americans under the age of 24. Given the growing market for transgender services, the financial incentives for Planned Parenthood are considerable. Last year, Abigail Shrier, author of Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters, published an interview with a Planned Parenthood employee who supports the organizations core mission related to abortion, but had serious misgivings about how Planned Parenthood was doling out hormones. According to the employee, Trans-identifying kids are cash cows, and they are kept on the hook for the foreseeable future in terms of follow-up appointments, bloodwork, meetings, etc., whereas abortions are (hopefully) a one-and-done situation. The cost of prescription hormones alone can vary from around $400 to $1,500 a year, not including the cost of blood tests and other medical services necessary for transgender treatments. The Planned Parenthood employee further told Shrier that one or two new biologically female teen patients were coming to the clinic she worked at every day. They were sent to a gender counselor at the clinic with no actual professional credentials or formal training other than being [a male-to-female transgender person]. The gender counselor would send notes to an actual licensed mental health professional somewhere off-site, and rubber stamp approve the patients to begin their transition. This is basically how they circumvented the requirement to speak to an actual counselor. Such apparent vulnerabilities in its operations suggest that Planned Parenthoods effort to, in Johnsons words, reimagine and reconstruct something better in a post-Roe environment remains unclear. If they were a health care provider interested in women's issues such as prenatal care, if they were interested in essentially providing any other kinds of service, they might find different ways to continue to engage, says Studnicki. But my expectation is that over time, Planned Parenthood, at least as a clinic, will disappear in communities where abortion is restricted. By Paul Sperry, RealClearInvestigations September 15, 2022 Former Attorney General Loretta Lynch obtained evidence that a computer contractor working under the direction of Hillary Clintons legal team destroyed subpoenaed records that the former secretary of state stored on a private email server she originally kept at her New York home, and then lied to investigators about it. Yet no charges were brought against Clinton, her lawyers, or her paid consultant. The leniency accorded to Clinton contrasts with recent moves by Attorney General Merrick Garland to aggressively investigate former President Trump and his lawyers for allegedly obstructing investigators efforts to locate subpoenaed records at his Florida home. Legal experts say the apparent double standard may provide a useful defense for Trump and his legal team. The treatment of Clinton included a deal with her defense team that required the FBI to, in effect, obstruct its own investigation. During its 2016 probe, the bureau agreed with her lawyers' demands to destroy two laptop hard drives containing subpoenaed evidence immediately after searching for files on them. They did so while the information was still being sought by congressional investigators and even though the lawyers had served under Clinton at the State Department and were subjects of the FBIs investigation. In fact, the laptops were theirs. Long before it bowed to the request, the FBI suspected Clinton's lawyers played hide-and-seek with evidence, making the concession that much more baffling. The scandal first erupted on March 2, 2015, when news broke that Clinton had secretly set up a non-government email server in the basement of her Chappaqua, N.Y., mansion in the weeks before she started her job at Foggy Bottom in early 2009. She used the unauthorized and unsecured device to conduct official State Department business including transmitting and storing classified information which allowed her to bypass legally mandated archiving of her government records. The next day, the House Select Committee on Benghazi sent her attorney David Kendall a letter advising his client to preserve all electronic records created since January 2009 and specifically not to delete any emails on her private server. The panel then issued a subpoena for records related to the deadly terrorist attack on the U.S. consulate in Libya. Three weeks later, on March 25, Kendall and former Clinton chief of staff Cheryl Mills, who also acted as her personal attorney, asked a computer contractor with Platte River Networks, which hosted Clintons secret email server, to join a conference call with them, according to FBI documents. Over the next week, the contractor, Paul Combetta, deleted the entire email archive from Clinton's server using a software program called BleachBit, which digitally shreds" files to prevent their recovery. All told, the paid Clinton agent scrubbed 31,830 emails from her server and backup files. In addition, he permanently removed duplicates of the emails from the laptops of Mills and another Clinton lawyer and aide, Heather Samuelson, where they also had been stored. According to FBI records, Combetta knew the documents he destroyed were under subpoena. In July 2015, the FBI counterintelligence division opened a criminal investigation, codenamed Midyear Exam, in response to a referral from the intelligence community inspector general concerning Clintons unsecure server. The FBI predicated the opening of the probe on the possible compromise of highly classified Sensitive Compartmented Information. Emails classified at the SCI level were later found on Clintons server. Some career FBI agents working on the case, which was tightly controlled within headquarters and deemed a SIM, or sensitive investigative matter, thought they had a slam-dunk case of obstruction, a key aggravating factor for prosecuting cases involving the mishandling of classified information or government records. All they had to do was get Combetta in a chair and pressure him to implicate the high-level Clinton surrogates who told him what they wanted done. Several investigators believed "that Combettas truthful testimony was essential for assessing criminal intent for Clinton and other individuals, because he would be able to tell them whether Clintons attorneys Mills, Samuelson or Kendall had instructed him to delete emails, according to a 2018 report by the DOJ's inspector general. But during voluntary interviews with FBI agents, Combetta falsely denied he had deleted or purged Clintons emails from the server or back-ups, and insisted Clintons legal team never requested that he do so. Combetta refused to talk to investigators about the critical March 2015 conference call with Clinton's lawyers that preceded his purge of evidence, the only topic he refused to speak about. So investigators and prosecutors agreed to give him immunity and interview him again. Still, they never got his account of the conference call. A written FBI summary of the interview, known as an FD-302 report, does not reference the call, indicating that agents failed to follow up on a key line of questioning in the investigation. Investigators declined to pursue other aspects of the case as well. They obtained an email in which Combetta told a colleague he was part of a Hilary[sic] coverup operation and said he would elaborate later at a "party." Asked about it, Combetta claimed he was just joking; the FBI accepted his explanation and did not appear to follow up with the colleague to learn what they discussed at the party. The FBI also accepted another explanation for why Combetta, using the screen name stonetear," sought technical assistance on the Reddit forum on how to "strip out" the email addresses of a VERY VIP" client from a a bunch of archived email, in an apparent reference to Clinton. (After Internet sleuths revealed stonetear was a name Combetta used in other forums, he began scrubbing his posts from the web.) An FBI case supervisor told the inspector general that he believed Combetta should have been charged with false statements for lying multiple times, according to the IG report, but prosecutors refused to indict him. The FBI also obtained forensic evidence from the server that could establish that Combetta made the deletions, but prosecutors balked at charging him with obstruction. Then-FBI Director James Comey personally agreed with the DOJ decision to give Combetta immunity rather than sweating him in a grand jury box, which typically is done with subjects who are lying, to get them to tell the truth. Comey was forced to defend the deal in an October 2016 conference with FBI supervisors, who were hearing complaints from rank-and-file agents that headquarters handed out immunity deals like candy to Clinton witnesses. Comey explained the bureau wasn't interested in prosecuting a small fish like Combetta, and sought only to massage him for information to make a case on Hillary Clinton, even though internal FBI emails reveal Comey already had decided to let Clinton off the hook. He did not explain why the contractor hadnt been pressured more with threats to bring charges against him for lying to agents, the traditional investigative method for getting such an uncooperative witness to turn. With respect to Combetta, we found his actions in deleting Clintons emails in violation of a congressional subpoena and preservation order and then lying about it to the FBI to be particularly serious, DOJ Inspector General Michael Horowitz said in his report. We asked the prosecutors why they chose to grant him immunity instead of charging him with obstruction of justice. One DOJ prosecutor told Horowitzs investigators they wanted to make Combetta feel comfortable enough that he would eventually cooperate on his own. Another said they weren't interested in prosecuting a bit player for lying and that doing so would just bog down the investigation, which they were rushing to wrap up well before the November 2016 presidential election. "I was concerned that we would end up with obstruction cases against some poor schmuck on the down that had a crappy attorney who [was] hiding the ball, the unidentified prosecutor said. "And so at the end of the day, I was like, look, lets immunize him. Weve got to get from Point A to Point B. Point B is to make a prosecution decision about Hillary Clinton and her senior staff well before the election if possible, the prosecutor added. "And this guy with his dumb attorney doing some half-assed obstruction did not interest me. So I was totally in favor of giving him immunity." The prosecutors reported directly to then-DOJ counterespionage official David Laufman, who would later play a key role in the discredited Russiagate probe, including opening investigations on several Trump advisers and signing off on wiretap warrants targeting at least one Trump aide, even though he knew they were based on a fabricated dossier financed by the Clinton campaign. Prosecutors also gave Clinton aides Mills and Samuelson immunity deals, over the objections of some FBI investigators who wanted to bring them before a grand jury to explain their actions. A handful of agents also argued for issuing a search warrant to seize their personal laptops, which they used to upload all the emails from the Clinton server and cull away supposedly personal messages that they claimed were out of the reach of investigators. Instead, prosecutors opted to review the laptops through an unusual consent agreement, which restricted searches to certain files and specific dates and nothing before or after Clintons tenure as secretary, which put any email exchanges with Combetta out of reach and required the FBI to destroy the hard drives after conducting the limited search, according to documents outlining the agreement. This is simply astonishing given the likelihood that evidence on the laptops would be of interest to congressional investigators, former Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley and three other GOP congressional leaders complained in a letter to DOJ at the time. In his talk at the FBI conference, Comey explained that he had to agree with prosecutors and defense lawyers to limit the search because of huge concerns that attorney-client privilege and attorney work product could be discovered on the laptops, a concern that apparently did not register in the broad, sweeping search of Trumps records. Agents scooped up at least 520 pages of attorney-client privileged information during their raid of Mar-a-Lago, according to a federal judge who has ordered an independent inspector to review the seized records for privileged material. Mills and Samuelson, who agreed to answer only a narrow scope of questions to prevent investigators from soliciting privileged information, were later allowed to sit in on Clintons own interview, which the FBI conducted after Comey had already drafted a statement exonerating her of mishandling classified information and obstructing justice. The director famously delivered the statement in a July 5, 2016, press conference, proclaiming the FBI found no evidence that Clintons emails were intentionally deleted in an effort to conceal them. Trump Didn't Get 'the Same (Gentle) Treatment' Grassley says the FBI pulled its punches investigating Clinton in comparison to Trump, who he says is being harshly investigated and prosecuted for the same offenses. Trump has not been provided the same (gentle) treatment given to Secretary Clinton and her associates, Grassley asserted in a recent statement. To be sure, the agency has used more intrusive methods probing Trump for similar allegations of mishandling classified information and concealing documents under subpoena. Unlike the Clinton probe, where investigators and prosecutors sought to obtain evidence by consent whenever possible, the department has used a federal grand jury to issue subpoenas to Trump for thousands of documents, as well as surveillance video footage, from his Palm Beach estate. They also obtained a search warrant to raid his private office and family bedrooms. In addition to seizing more than 11,000 documents, agents confiscated some 1,800 personal items, including gifts, photo albums, clothing, passports, and medical and tax records, according to court records. Clinton and her representatives were spared such heavy-handed tactics and indignities, the senator pointed out. Even though Secretary Clinton and her attorneys did not hand over classified records in their possession, they were not subject to a raid similar to what occurred at Mar-a-Lago, Grassley said. In the end, computer-forensics investigators and intelligence analysts were able to determine that at least 81 classified email chains were transmitted and stored on Clintons unclassified personal server. Their levels ranged from CONFIDENTIAL to TOP SECRET/SPECIAL ACCESS PROGRAM, a highly sensitive designation which makes access to certain information restricted even to Secret and Top Secret clearance-holders without a need to know. By comparison, the FBI recovered 100 documents with classified markings from its raid of Trumps home. They range in level from CONFIDENTIAL to TOP SECRET. In a court filing last month, DOJ said it developed evidence that presidential records held in a basement storage room at Mar-a-Lago may have been concealed or removed prior to a June visit by FBI agents to pick up classified documents, suggesting possible attempts to obstruct investigators. Investigators issued a grand jury subpoena in May for the records and visited Mar-a-Lago on June 3 to pick them up. When they got there, the filing said, a Trump lawyer handed them a large envelope containing documents. Another lawyer acting as the official custodian of Trumps records certified in a sworn statement that they conducted a diligent search for classified papers in response to the subpoena. Over the next two months however, officials developed evidence that government records were likely concealed and removed from the storage room and that efforts were likely taken to obstruct the governments investigation, DOJ said in its filing, without specifying what it believes was removed from the room, or by whom. The affidavit explained that this suspicion is why it sent some 30 armed agents back to Mar-a-Lago early last month to conduct a massive search of the property. Prosecutors say the additional documents they found with classified markings cast doubt on claims by Trumps lawyers that they were fully cooperative with the subpoena. They are said to be focusing their investigation on Trump lawyer Christina Bobb, in particular, who allegedly acted as the custodian who signed the certification. Bobb, who has not been charged with a crime, did not respond to requests for comment. Trumps legal team has told the court that the DOJ significantly mischaracterized the June meeting with Bobb and another lawyer, but did not elaborate. Laufman, the top prosecutor in the Clinton case and a caustic critic of Trump in the media, believes Trump should also be worried and has significant criminal exposure to an obstruction rap. Either [his lawyers] wittingly lied or they got that assurance from their client, in which case Trump has jeopardy, Laufman, an Obama appointee and donor, told Politico. But at this point, investigators can only speculate that documents were intentionally moved or destroyed to avoid compliance with subpoenas, which would be a felony. Legal experts note that prosecutors were careful to say in their filing that documents were likely concealed and that efforts were likely taken to obstruct the investigation, indicating they still lack solid evidence. It is not clear from the filing if the FBI has evidence of intentional acts of concealment as opposed to negligence, George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley said. By contrast, prosecutors had solid material evidence including emails, phone calls, work tickets and computer forensics that Clinton operatives conspired to not just conceal but actually destroy documents under subpoena in violation of Section 1519 of the federal criminal code, the same statute cited by the FBI in its warrant to search Mar-a-Lago. It bars the destruction or falsification of any documents or materials with the intent to impede, obstruct or influence an investigation. "Did Hillary Clinton violate 18 USC 1519 when emails from her private email server were destroyed during government investigation? Possibly, yes, said Donald Skupsky, a lawyer specializing in government records-retention procedures. "In December 2014, she did instruct her team to destroy remaining emails after 60 days. And ultimately, she never halted nor protested again any records destruction, he added. "Under 18 USC 1519, Clinton may have concealed and covered up the destruction of records." Both the Trump and Clinton cases also invoke Section 2071, a federal statute which prohibits the willful concealment, removal, or destruction of federal records. But in investigating Clintons homebrew server scheme, prosecutors declined to pursue a Section 2071 charge because they argued the statute had never been used to prosecute individuals for attempting to avoid Federal Records Act requirements by failing to ensure that government records are filed appropriately, according to the IG report. Some legal experts say the same standard should apply to Trump, whom the DOJ said tried to avoid Presidential Records Act requirements. Trump lawyer Jim Trusty said Trumps retention of allegedly classified papers is akin to an overdue library book and complained that Biden administration prosecutors are holding him to a different standard than anyone else because he is a Republican. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon earlier this month issued an injunction temporarily barring the Justice Department from using the seized material in its espionage investigation until a Special Master can review it for privileged and other information outside the scope of the probe. Despite the order, the obstruction part of DOJ's probe can move forward. Among other things, investigators can continue to interview witnesses about whether subpoenaed documents were moved or concealed. DOJ is in the midst of an ongoing criminal investigation pertaining to potential violations of the Espionage Act, as well as obstruction of justice, 18 USC 1519, and unlawful concealment or removal of government records, 18 USC 2071, DOJ chief counterintelligence prosecutor Jay Bratt stated in a recent court filing. Concern has been raised after the Welsh government confirmed there is no programme to detect TB in badgers in the Conwy Valley. The devolved government are taking no steps to find the disease in live badgers, despite a cluster of breakdowns in the region. It is thought that there have been around 17 breakdowns in the area this year alone. Bovine TB continues to have a devastating impact on the sector, with over 10,000 cattle slaughtered for TB control annually in Wales. The disclosure was made in the Senedd following a written question by Janet Finch-Saunders, MS for Aberconwy. She asked: What action is the Welsh government taking to detect TB in live badgers in the Conwy Valley? The Minister for Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths stated: We do not have a programme for detecting TB in live badgers in the Conwy Valley. Ms Finch-Saunders responded by saying the current Welsh government policy was leading to 'serious mental distress' among farmers. "I have constituents who are terrified of hearing their herds TB test results," she added. Since last year local farmers have been subjected to additional measures. They are cooperating, yet the Minister for Rural Affairs is not doing her share. "It seems further evidence that the Welsh government is unwilling to tackle the disease amongst wildlife, and in doing so, causing serious concern that the campaign to eradicate TB is going to be even harder to achieve. Oxbury Bank has launched a new initiative to help fund young farmers in a bid to tackle the demographic challenges in the industry. The bank has announced the Oxbury NewGen product, which it says is a first-of-its-kind initiative in the UK aimed at new farmers aged 18-40. The scheme will provide funding for new farming ventures while also providing advice to give new entrants a chance for success. Oxbury says it will provide up to 100% of the financing required depending on the business plan the applicant may not need to input any finance themselves. According to the bank, this level of lending to new farmers is not offered anywhere else across the UK banking landscape. Defra figures show the average age of Britains farm owners is now 59, with farmers aged 65 and over forming the largest group of farm owners in the UK. Just 3 percent of farm owners are aged under 35; a figure that has not changed since 2005. One of the major barriers holding back young people entering farming is a lack of access to funding and the historic reluctance of banks to back the new generation. Nick Evans, managing director at Oxbury Bank said the industry was in need of new entrants to secure the industrys long-term future. "Farming is a challenging business, but its also a hugely exciting industry for budding young entrepreneurs," he added. With the complex challenges facing farming, we know that access to finance and high-quality advice has been a barrier to new entrants coming into the farming sector. Thats why were launching Oxbury NewGen, a unique way to fund the next generation of UK farming talent. We are hugely excited to make our first offers to successful applicants and watch them succeed in the UKs critical farming sector. Business and financial advice will also be provided through a panel of independent farm advisory services, which will help create and track the delivery and progress of business plans. Oxbury says it will be funding that advice for a period of three years from the granting of the loan. Funding has opened for young sheep farmers who are seeking to expand their knowledge on pedigree sheep breeding. The National Sheep Association (NSA) has opened up the fund for the next generation of sheep farmers to apply. Successful applicants will join key names from the UK sheep industry at the biennial Sheep Breeders Round Table (SBRT), taking place in November. The three-day conference is a technical event attracting sheep farmers, breeders, researchers and vets from the UK and overseas. The NSA's Next Generation programme will fund one young sheep farmer to attend the conference to expand their knowledge. In addition to this, NSA South East and NSA South West Regions are each offering to fund 50% of two places at the conference. NSA communications manager, Katie James said the event was well suited to young sheep producers with a keen interest in pedigree breeding and research. Attendance at SBRT can provide young farmers who have an interest in developing their sheep flock or career as a shepherd with the perfect opportunity to hear from some of the countrys leading experts. "It is also an excellent networking event with chance to speak informally with some well-known names from the world of sheep breeding research and fellow pedigree enthusiasts. The fully funded and part funded places offered will include the full three days of the conference as well as accommodation and meals. Young sheep farmers aged 18-35 who would like to apply for the funded place should visit the NSA Next Generation website. Applications close at 5pm on 21 October 2022. The EnviroCrops project - a decision support tool for the biomass sector - is seeking farmers and land managers to test and trial it after being awarded 1.5m of funding. The app is envisaged as a central source of impartial information on biomass crops in an easy to access, free or low-cost, user-friendly format. It aims to enable farmers to make an informed decision on planting and marketing crops such as willow, miscanthus, poplar, eucalyptus and hemp. The project is led by the Agri Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) with support from two energy in agriculture consultancies: Crops for Energy Ltd and NFU Energy, as well as a software development firm, Calvium. NFU Energy are asking farmers to register their interest and become part of the project testing team, by emailing roger.stones@nfuenergy.co.uk. Jon Swain, of NFU Energy said: The commercial focus of the EnviroCrops app will help put farmers in the driving seat. "[It will] allow them to access good quality, up to date information to ensure they can make the best decisions for their business. "By building this system with renowned consultancies and significant experienced grower input the system will be the best developed and relevant in the marketplace and could help turn biomass crops from marginal options into real winners. Biomass crops are fast growing, high yielding and grown in dense plantations of up to 20,000 plants per hectare. There are currently around 10,000-20,000 hectares of perennial biomass crops planted in the UK. The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) states that in order to meet net zero targets, the UK will require 700,000 hectares of biomass crops to be planted by 2050. The Biomass Feedstocks Innovation scheme, which provided the app 1.5m funding, is a 36m programme by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). A Welsh dairy farmer has died after sustaining injuries in an incident involving a bull during a TB test. Carmarthenshire dairy farmer Maldwyn Harries, 58, was attacked by the bull on Friday 23 September, according to media reports. The tragedy occurred while he was testing his cattle for TB. Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the incident took place on a farm in the Penybanc area, near Llandeilo. Reverend Simon Bowkett, a family friend, said on social media: "Saddened today by the loss of a man locally that we counted a friend - killed by a bull while TB testing. "If you pray then please pray with us for his poor family in their grief and sense of loss." The Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) said it had also sent its condolences to Mr Harries' family. The UK's safety watchdog, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), have launched an investigation into the incident. It comes after the HSE recently published figures which showed that the 25 people were killed in agriculture in England, Scotland and Wales in the past year. Of these, 22 were farm workers and three were members of the public, including a 9-year old child. The figures were released in the summer as part of HSE's Fatal Injuries in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing in GB Report 2021/22. On Sunday, actor Alia Bhatt attended a function in Singapore and left us wowed by her stylish pregnancy outfit and gorgeous styling. For the ceremony, Alia, who is expecting her and Ranbir Kapoor's first child, transformed into a golden goddess in a dazzling bronze gold cape gown. The celebrity shared many images of herself on Instagram wearing the custom-made shimmering ensemble and cradling her growing baby belly and her fans couldn't stop showering love in the comments. Her bronze-gold dress entailed a flowing skirt that skimmed the floor, and a cloak that was draped over the shoulders to give her a princess-like appearance. It had a slightly plunging neckline and a belt clinched it together at the waist. The outfit included plenty of pleats and a fluid style, which highlighted Alia's baby bump beautifully, as well as gave her overall look more depth. With minimal jewellery, including stackable bracelets, statement rings in both gold and diamond, and dangling earrings, Alia's accessories complemented the outfit well. She kept her hair in side-parted waves, and her makeup was minimal as well from subtle eye shadow to a nude lipstick. The Gangubai Kathiawadi actress definitely looked like a goddess with the golden dress coupled with all that pregnancy glow, and we're so here for it. BANDUNG, INDONESIA, Oct 2, 2022 - (ACN Newswire) - PT Bio Farma (Persero), the holding company for pharmaceutical state-owned enterprises (SOEs), will export its novel Oral Polio Vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) having secured a purchase contract with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) for 2022 & 23. Under the contract, Bio Farma will export its oral polio vaccines based on purchase requests from UNICEF via multilateral contract agreement for the years 2022 & 23.Indonesian State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Minister Erick Thohir has said, "In line with the theme of the Indonesian G20 Presidency, "Recover Together, Recover Stronger", it is important for Indonesia's state-owned enterprises to lead with concrete actions realized through strategic initiatives and large-scale transformations to create global impacts."Honesti Basyir, President Director of Bio Farma, said, "UNICEF procures nOPV2 under a multilateral supply agreement as part of a global effort to prevent spread of the polio disease. Bio Farma will provide its annual production to the global nOPV2 stockpile, which is a contribution to the global health industry, as we are able to manufacture stockpiles that fulfill world needs. In turn, we will fulfill individual deliveries to target countries or regions following UNICEF request."The nOPV2 vaccine received an Emergency Use of Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO) in November 2020, the first ever vaccine certified for emergency use, adding to Bio Farma's portfolio of products that were already available globally. It was initially used to combat outbreaks of circulating vaccine-derived polio viruses (cVDPVs) in a number of African and East Mediterranean countries.Bio Farma's nOPV2 vaccine is now distributed internationally, ex-Indonesia, as Indonesia has been polio-free since 2014. Target countries in Africa for the vaccine have included Algeria, Cameroon, Kongo, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Uganda. In Europe, it is administered in Israel and Ukraine, and in the Middle East, in Egypt, Iran, Somalia and Yemen.According to Honesti, nOpV2 vaccine is a result of collaboration between Bio Farma and several international research institutes, including Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), PATH, and the WHO. Bio Farma has since become the main supplier of polio vaccines in the world, and currently contributes 67% of the global stockpile, while Bio Farma's laboratories have become the reference for sampling polio vaccines in the world.In manufacturing the nOPV2 vaccine, Bio Farma collaborated with world-class institutions like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), the PATH, and the WHO. Bio Farma has since become the main supplier of polio OPV vaccines in the world, and currently contributes 67% of the global OPV stockpile.Bio Farma's Laboratories have also been widely acknowledged as reference labs for poliovirus testing, while Bio Farma's success in producing and exporting the nOPV2 vaccines shows the Indonesian company fully contributing to the world health sector, apart from providing the necessary vaccines at home in Indonesia.In Line with G20Honesti said Bio Farma's provision of vaccines is in line with a main pillar of the Indonesian G20 Presidency (2021-22), Global Health Architecture. Through its G20 Presidency, Indonesia has showcased its success in controlling the Covid-19 pandemic and maintaining public health and steady economic growth through vaccination. Bio Farma has been a front liner in the government-initiated vaccination program.Bio Farma has been ready to mass-produce its IndoVac brand Covid-19 vaccine.* On September 24, an Emergency Use of Authorization (EUA) was granted by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM), following the halal certification from the Indonesian Ulema Council (LPPOM MUI), and the Halal Certification Agency (BPJPH).With this EUA and certification, mass production of IndoVac is beginning immediately, as preparation work for the first batch was already in place at the company's facility in Bandung. Bio Farma plans to increase its production capacity to 40 million doses next year, and to 100 million doses by 2024, given demand in the global markets.Bio Farma hopes that its IndoVac vacciness can contribute to reducing the spread of Covid-19 in the world, much as its nOPV2 vaccine has contributed to reducing the polio spread.About Bio FarmaPT Bio Farma (Persero), the holding company for pharmaceutical state-owned enterprises (SOEs), offers end-to-end services across the healthcare spectrum - from pharmaceutical research and development, manufacturing and distribution to the operation of retail pharmacies, health clinics and clinical laboratories. Bio Farma's head office and production facilities are in Bandung, West Jawa, with a representative office in Jakarta, Indonesia's capital city.Bio Farma is a leading human vaccine producer with production capacity of 3.2 billion doses per year, and has exported its vaccines to more than 150 countries. Bio Farma recently became the parent through merger of listed state-owned pharmaceutical companies PT Kimia Farma Tbk (IDX: KAEF), PT Indofarma Tbk (IDX: INAF) and PT Phapros Tbk (IDX: PEHA). For further information, please visit www.biofarma.co.idMedia contact:R. Rifa HerdianPT Bio Farma (Persero)Corporate Secretary & Investor RelationsTel: +62-81-2542-8844Email: rifaherdian@biofarma.co.id* 9/11/22: "Bio Farma ready to mass produce IndoVac brand Covid-19 vaccine"https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/77878/indonesia's-bio-farma-ready-to-produceSource: BUMNPT Bio Farma (Persero)Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. JAKARTA, INDONESIA, Oct 3, 2022 - (ACN Newswire) - With Indonesia darting to incorporate the latest technology innovations in FSI, the country's fintech is expected to generate $8.6 billion revenue by 2025. The move is further getting bolstered by Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) that is bringing favorable regulatory changes and has even launched "Master Plan for the Indonesian Financial Services Sector (MPSJKI) 2021-2025".To support Indonesia in powering an inclusive Financial Services & Insurance industry, Tradepass is hosting the 11th edition World Financial Innovation Series (WFIS) at Hotel Mulia Senayan in Jakarta, Indonesia on 4 - 5 October 2022.The event so far has drawn an array of the most spectacular technology providers to showcase their cutting-edge solutions from their exclusive exhibition booth on the event days. The list includes TigerGraph, Newgen, ExtraHop, Resulticks, SEON, Incode, Backbase, PT NEC Indonesia, Solace, Hazelcast, Perfios Software Solution, Freshworks, Weefer, Credgenics, PT CRIF Lembaga Informasi Keuangan, Provenir, 8x8, Feedzai, Teleperformance Indonesia, AI Rudder, M2P, Finastra, IT Group Indonesia, Outsystems, Perkasa and Mambu.In a statement issued, following TigerGraph's participation announcement, Herfini Haryono (Country Director Indonesia, TigerGraph) expressed, "Graph technology is increasingly viewed as a gamechanger in the financial services space. With a projected transaction value of USD125 billion for digital payments in Indonesia by 2027, there is an urgent need to bolster fraud prevention and detection as well as data risk assessment capabilities to help companies lower costs of payment fraud, uncover latent fraud patterns and deliver holistic customer experiences. Deep-link analytics, when combined with AI and Machine Learning, will be indispensable to financial institutions and fintech players that require real-time insights to improve and strengthen internal security procedures."WFIS 2022 - Indonesia, will also host over 500 technology and business heads from the leading Banks, Insurance & Micro-Finance institutions across the country who will explore the ideal technology solutions for their firms at the event's Exhibition Hall. They will also get a chance to take back the latest industry intel shared by the most inspirational thought leaders comprising the best minds from FSI.During an interview, the Co-Founder and CEO of Credgenics, Rishabh Goel gave a very interesting fact about the industry, he mentioned, "We have observed that more than 50% of the collections in retail loans can be completed through digital and automated mode, without any need for manual effort intervention. However, this potential has been underutilized due to the lack of a modern, digital-first and analytical approach. We are changing this by working with lenders across India and South East Asia to make their debt collections digital, data-driven, and customer-centric. We are excited to be a part of WFIS Indonesia and looking forward to engaging with the industry leaders over the two days."The event will power two knowledge-packed days filled with insightful presentations on the most pressing industry topics, deep dive panel discussions with the leading thought leaders, live showcase of the best fintech solutions and abundant networking opportunities.Francesco-Strobbe, Lead Financial Sector Economist, The World Bank is of the opinion, this summit provides an excellent opportunity to bring together financial institutions, regulators and other stakeholders to exchange perspectives and discuss the future direction of the financial services industry in Indonesia. This is critical to ensure that financial institutions continue to support the real sector, facilitate the transition towards a green economy, and explore new technologies to disburse inclusive finance."Some of the confirmed speakers for the event include IMANSYAH, Deputy Commissioner of OJK Institute and Digital Finance, OJK, TRIYONO GANI, Executive Director Digital Finance, Innovation Group, OJK; RITESH VARMA, Global Head and Vice President for Business Solutions Group, Newgen Software; DANIEL CHU, Vice President of Systems Engineering, APJ, ExtraHop Networks; MANI GOPALARATNAM, CEO & CTO, Resulticks; GHULAM IMADUDDIN, Director, Solutions Engineering, TigerGraph; KAIJIE HO, Senior Account Executive, SEON; RISHABH GOEL, Co-Founder and CEO, Credgenics and many others.Some of the crucial topics from the event include, 'Making Debt Collections Digital, Data-driven and Customer-centric', 'Defining An XDR Strategy', 'Data Driven CX in a Transformed World', 'Neo-Banks', 'Cloud Banking Platform', 'Building an AI Powered Bank' and many others.Organizer and CEO of Tradepass, Sudhir Jena expressed, "At a time when Indonesia is geared up to establish financial inclusion in the country, World Financial Innovation Series (WFIS) will be of paramount importance as not only it will bring the latest developments from the industry to the fore but will also foster collaboration between the public and private sector."For more information about the event, log on to: https://indonesia.worldfis.com/About TradepassProviding access to the global emerging markets, Tradepass brings together people, products and solutions to power events for unparalleled business and networking opportunities. Being the most accredited event company, it helps organizations: enter new markets, grow sales pipeline, close prospects, raise capital and identify the right solution-providers.As a deal facilitator, Tradepass is always determined about exposing the most agile liquid growth markets, to enable all-round scalability and growth.Media contact:Shrinkhal SharadPR & Communication Leadshrinkhals@tradepassglobal.com+ (91) 80 6166 4401TradepassSource: TradepassCopyright 2022 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. Leveraging experience from leadership roles at Affirm, Mastercard, Western Union, and PayPal, the appointments of Lin and Yates provide Nium with veteran expertise as it builds out the global network for Modern Money Movement SINGAPORE, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nium , the global platform for Modern Money Movement, today announced the appointment of two new board members, Huey Lin and David Yates. The new independent directors add deep experience in the global payments industry, having guided several organizations through stages of rapid growth. "As we look towards the future at Nium, it's imperative that we continue to surround ourselves with the best from the payments industry and beyond," said Prajit Nanu, Co-Founder and CEO at Nium. "Huey and David will be instrumental in helping drive business strategy, while contributing to our accelerated growth and product innovation. I couldn't be more thrilled to welcome them aboard." Huey Lin is a Venture Partner with GGV Capital where she supports and advises the fund's portfolio companies. Previously, she was the founding Chief Operating Officer at Affirm and began her career at PayPal as one of the company's first product managers. She subsequently spent more than a decade at the firm where she led China and Asia-Pacific operations, in addition to serving in key leadership roles in product, international risk, and policy strategy. Most recently, she was the President of Asia at Flexport, a modern freight forwarder and one of the fastest-growing companies in global trade. She led all activities for Flexport across Asia, the company's most strategic market. "With a differentiated view on how global businesses can seamlessly move money all over the world, I believe there are significant opportunities to create even more value for our customers," said Lin. "I'm eager to work alongside my fellow directors and the Nium leadership team to enhance the company's competitive position for long-term success." David Yates is an Executive Partner at Siris Capital Group and was previously the President of New Payment Platforms at Mastercard. He has a proven track record of successfully leading commercial transformation and growth in global financial services businesses. Yates led the transformation of Vocalink into an international payments platform, which led to its sale to Mastercard. As the President of Western Union, Yates drove value creation by diversifying Western Union's business into online money transfer and business payments. He aslo led the expansion and development of First Data (now Fiserv). On private equity boards, Yates has facilitated major evolutions within the payments sector across Europe and the United States. "Nium's global growth and approach to solving some of the biggest challenges businesses are facing today continues to impress me," said Yates. "I'm excited to join the board and partner with Nium's exceptional leadership team at a time when global payments are transforming the way businesses pay and get paid around the world." Lin's and Yate's appointments follow the recent announcements of Ramana Satyavarapu as Chief Technology Officer , Dylan Lowrey to General Counsel , and Robin Gandhi as Chief Product Officer . About Nium Nium is the global platform for modern money movement. It provides banks, payment providers, and businesses of any size with access to global payment and card issuance solutions. Its modular platform powers frictionless commerce, helping businesses pay and get paid across the globe. Once connected to the Nium platform, businesses are able to pay out in more than 100 currencies to over 190 countries - 100 of which in real time. Funds can be received in 35 markets, including Southeast Asia, UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, India, and the US. Nium's growing card issuance business is already available in 34 countries, including Europe (SEPA), the UK, Australia and Singapore. Nium holds regulatory licenses and authorizations in over 40 countries, enabling seamless global payments and rapid integration, regardless of geography. For more information, visit: https://www.nium.com or connect with a specialist here. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/nium-appoints-payments-industry-leaders-huey-lin-and-david-yates-to-board-of-directors-301638445.html Accelleron shares admitted to start trading on SIX Swiss Exchange today Transaction to allow both ABB and Accelleron to focus on respective core strategies and long-term value creation for stakeholders ABB shareholders receive 1 Accelleron share for every 20 ABB shares held ABB announces that Accelleron Industries AG (formerly ABB Turbocharging), a global leader in high-power turbochargers for mission-critical applications, has been admitted to start trading on SIX Swiss Exchange in Zurich under the ticker symbol "ACLN", marking the completion of Accelleron's spin-off from ABB. The listing follows ABB shareholders' approval of the spin-off at its Extraordinary General Meeting, held on September 7, 2022. ABB has distributed the Accelleron shares on a pro rata basis, as a dividend in kind, with 1 Accelleron share for 20 ABB Ltd shares held. The spin-off is part of ABB's portfolio management strategy to focus its efforts on growing global megatrends in electrification and automation, while at the same time allowing Accelleron to grow with increased flexibility and independence as a stand-alone listed company. Bjorn Rosengren, Chief Executive Officer of ABB, said: "The completion of this spin-off marks another important step for ABB's strategy of active portfolio management as we continue to focus on our leadership positions in electrification and automation, while still allowing our shareholders to participate in the continued success of the Accelleron business. We wish all the employees a successful future as a new exciting global brand under the excellent leadership of CEO Daniel Bischofberger and Chairman Oliver Riemenschneider." Accelleron is a global leader in turbocharging technologies and optimization solutions for 0.5 to 80+ MW engines, helping to provide sustainable, efficient and reliable power to the marine, energy, rail, and off-highway sectors. Through its innovative product offerings and research leadership, the company accelerates the decarbonization of the industries it operates in. Accelleron has an installed base of approximately 180,000 turbochargers and a network of more than 100 service stations across 50 countries worldwide. ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Exchange) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB's success is driven by about 105,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221002005063/en/ Contacts: ABB Ltd Affolternstrasse 44 8050 Zurich Switzerland Media Relations Phone: +41 43 317 71 11 E-mail: media.relations@ch.abb.com or Investor Relations Phone: +41 43 317 71 11 E-mail: investor.relations@ch.abb.com Elliptic Labs (OSE: ELABS), a global AI software company and the world leader in AI Virtual Smart Sensors, has signed a new license agreement with Xiaomi, the third-largest smartphone manufacturer in the world. The new contract will enable Xiaomi to continue to use Elliptic Labs' AI Virtual Proximity Sensor INNER BEAUTYas its proximity detection solution in multiple upcoming smartphone launches. "Xiaomi's decision to continue our collaboration demonstrates the innovative spirit of our long-shared history," said Elliptic Labs' CEO Laila Danielsen. "Our AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform has been at the core of great and impactful smartphone designs from Xiaomi, and we're looking forward to many more design wins in the future. Sharing similar visions of developing greener, safer, and more human friendly devices will continue to keep our partnership with Xiaomi strong." AI Virtual Proximity Sensor INNER BEAUTY Elliptic Labs' AI Virtual Proximity Sensor INNER BEAUTY turns off a smartphone's display and disables the screen's touch functionality when a user holds the device up to their ear during a phone call. If that capability to detect proximity were missing, a user's ear or cheek could accidentally trigger unwanted actions during a call, such as hanging up or dialing numbers. Turning off the screen automatically helps conserve battery life as well. Proximity detection is a core capability that is used in all smartphones across today's market. Elliptic Labs' AI Virtual Proximity Sensor INNER BEAUTY delivers robust proximity detection without the need for a dedicated hardware sensor. By replacing hardware sensors with our software, the AI Virtual Proximity Sensor reduces device cost and eliminates sourcing risk. INNER BEAUTY is a registered trademark of Elliptic Labs. AI Virtual Smart Sensor, AI Virtual Proximity Sensor, and AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform are trademarks of Elliptic Labs. All other trademarks or service markets are the responsibility of their respective organizations. About Elliptic Labs Elliptic Labs is a global enterprise targeting the smartphone, laptop, IoT, and automotive markets. Founded in 2006 as a research spin-off from Norway's Oslo University, the company's patented software uses AI, ultrasound, and sensor fusion to deliver intuitive 3D gesture, proximity-, presence-, breathing- and heartbeat-detection experiences. Its scalable AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform creates software-only sensors that are sustainable, human-friendly, and already deployed in hundreds of millions of devices around the world. Elliptic Labs is the only software company that has delivered detection capabilities using AI software, ultrasound, and sensor fusion deployed at scale. The company joined the Oslo Brs main listing in March 2022. Elliptic Labs is headquartered in Norway with presence in the USA, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Its technology and IP are developed in Norway and are solely owned by the company. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221002005101/en/ Contacts: PR Contacts: Patrick Tsui pr@ellipticlabs.com Investor Relations: Lars Holmy Lars.Holmoy@ellipticlabs.com BRUSSELS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Brattle Group has welcomed economist Dr. Tim Reuter to its Brussels office as a Principal with the firm's European Antitrust & Competition practice. Dr. Reuter is an expert in competition economics, specializing in merger control, abuse of dominance, cartel damages, and horizontal and vertical agreements in a wide range of industries. "With his skills and breadth of experience working with the European Commission and national competition authorities, Tim is a welcome addition to Brattle's ever-expanding Europe competition team," said Peter Davis, Principal and Leader of Brattle's European Antitrust & Competition practice. "He will provide valuable insights to our clients in Brussels and across the EU." Recognized as a "Future Leader" by Who's Who Legal, Dr. Reuter has advised on cases conducted by the European Commission and national authorities in France, Germany, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, and Switzerland. He has also served as an expert witness in competition cases in front of various courts. Dr. Reuter has written extensively on competition law and economics. His work has been published in leading industry publications such as the Review of Industrial Organization, the Global Competition Litigation Review, and the European Journal of Law and Economics. "Brattle has a top-notch competition practice, and I'm excited to be joining such a strong and collaborative team," said Dr. Reuter. "I look forward to working with the team in Brussels as well as the firm's worldwide network of experts." Prior to joining Brattle, Dr. Reuter was a Principal at a consulting firm focused on competition economics. He previously worked as a stagiaire at DG Competition and received his Diploma and PhD in competition economics from the University of Konstanz. To learn more about Dr. Reuter, please see his full bio. ABOUT BRATTLE The Brattle Group answers complex economic, finance, and regulatory questions for corporations, law firms, and governments around the world. We are distinguished by the clarity of our insights and the credibility of our experts, which include leading international academics and industry specialists. Brattle has 500 talented professionals across four continents. For more information, please visit brattle.com. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/320171/the_brattle_group_logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-brattle-group-welcomes-competition-economist-dr-tim-reuter-301638233.html Debiopharm awards the winning scientists for the JCA (Japanese Cancer Association) Award for innovative, disruptive, and translational oncology research LAUSANNE, Switzerland , Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Debiopharm (www.debiopharm.com), a Swiss-based global biopharmaceutical company, today announced the two winners of JCA Mauvernay Award for breakthrough Japanese oncology research projects in 2 categories: Innovative and/or Disruptive Research - Dr. Akihide Yoshimi and for Translational Research - Prof. Mamiko Sakata-Yanagimoto. The winners were honored with trophies and a monetary prize during the live event of the 81st Annual Meeting of the Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) on Saturday, October 1st in Yokohama, Japan by Prof. Hideyuki Saya President of the JCA and Thierry Mauvernay, President of Debiopharm, and Bertrand Ducrey CEO of Debiopharm. "Japan and Switzerland share a variety of similar values such as commitment to excellence and professional diligence. With these values, we can maximize the chances that the next generation of drugs could result from collaboration between these two countries." expressed Thierry Mauvernay, President of Debiopharm. "Together with the JCA, Debiopharm hopes to encourage young scientists such as Drs Yoshimi and Sakata-Yanagimoto, to transfer their innovative research to the clinic and to the benefit of worldwide patients rapidly." "The previous winners of the Mauvernay Award have immediately become very well-known scientists in our country, becoming professors and leaders in significant institutes. Therefore, I would say that the Mauvernay Award is definitely a huge step for young cancer research scientists in our country." stated Prof. Hideyuki Saya, President of the JCA. Dr. Akihide Yoshimi's disruptive research at the National Cancer Center Research Institute, is aimed at understanding and targeting aberrant RNA splicing in hematological malignancies. He has contributed to the discovery of aberrant events in this process in tumor cells, identified key alterations in several splicing factors (SF) and provided insights into aberrant splicing and its association with key oncogenes (such as isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and myelocytomatosis (Myc)). This work within an emerging field could have important biological as well as therapeutic implications for patient with SF mutant hematologic malignancies (e.g. in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)). Prof. Mamiko Sakata-Yanagimoto's translational research at the Medicine Faculty of the University of Tsukuba is offering new insights into targeting intractable lymphomas with an elegant application of gene expression analysis in the aggressive angioimmunoblastic lymphoma (AITL). Her research started with the characterization of sequence of events between TET2 and RHOA mutations in the AITL patient samples (now included in the diagnostic criteria), continued with the identification of new actionable targets in the disease (RHOA/Vav1) and is currently focused on testing in the clinic therapeutic options using dasatinib to treat those patients. The JCA-Mauvernay Award Since 2005, the Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) and Debiopharm have co-organized the 'JCA-Mauvernay Award'. This prize illustrates the curiosity that drives researchers as well as the scientific cooperation between Japan and Switzerland. It aims to recognize the outstanding achievements in the field of oncology amongst Japanese researchers, in both the fundamental and the clinical aspects. The award has a total value of CHF 25'000. Debiopharm's commitment to patients Debiopharm develops innovative therapies that target high unmet medical needs in oncology and infectious diseases. Bridging the gap between disruptive discovery products and real-world patient reach, we identify high-potential compounds and technologies for in-licensing, clinically demonstrate their safety and efficacy and then select large pharmaceutical commercialization partners to maximize patient access globally. For more information, please visit www.debiopharm.com We are on Twitter. Follow us @DebiopharmNews at http://twitter.com/DebiopharmNews Debiopharm Contact Dawn Haughton-Bonine Communication Manager dawn.bonine@debiopharm.com Tel: +41 (0)21 321 01 11 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/debiopharm-reinforces-the-bond-between-swiss-and-japanese-cancer-research-with-the-2022-jca-mauvernay-award-ceremony-301638251.html VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Zimtu Capital Corp. is pleased to announce that the Company is renewing the Zimtu European road trip this coming fall and would like to invite European investors to meet the Zimtu Capital team and it's attending companies at our conference events in Geneva, Zurich, Frankfurt & Munich. This year's schedule begins with the first investor event in Geneva, Switzerland on November 1st 2022, followed by the next investor event on November 2nd in Zurich. The next investor event is taking place in Frankfurt on November 3rd and our final stop is at the 2022 Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse (International Precious Metals & Commodities Show) in Munich, Germany. The Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse has been held in Munich since 2005, and features renowned speakers from all over the globe, exhibitors focused on precious metals & commodities, and the opportunity to expand your network and meet like-minded people involved in various industries. To learn more and RSVP to any of the events, please visit: https://event.zimtu.com/. "Between 2011 and 2016 Zimtu Capital hosted an annual bus-trip to Europe, with stops scheduled in Germany and Switzerland," enthused Dave Hodge, President of Zimtu Capital Corp. "The European road trip featured investor meetings, scheduled company presentations to retail investors, family offices and other institutional representatives, and provided networking and other business opportunities for participants at each stop, Geneva and Zurich in Switzerland, and Frankfurt and Munich in Germany. The stop in Munich will overlap with the 2022 in-person Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse, scheduled for November 4th and 5th. If you are interested in building awareness for your company in Europe, the Zimtu road trip is a must-attend!" If you are interested in participating in the 2022 Zimtu European road trip, as either a company, broker or dealmaker, please call Zimtu Capital at 1 (604) 681 1568. About Zimtu Capital Corp. Zimtu Capital Corp. is a public investment issuer that aspires to achieve long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders. Zimtu Capital companies may operate in the fields of mineral exploration, mining, technology, life sciences or investment. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZC" and Frankfurt under symbol "ZCT1". For more information, please visit www.zimtu.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors ZIMTU CAPITAL CORP. "David Hodge" David Hodge President & Director Phone: 604.681.1568 NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE 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 NEWS RELEASE. SOURCE: Zimtu Capital Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/718394/Zimtu-Capital-Announces-2022-European-Road-Trip-in-Geneva-Zurich-Frankfurt-Munich APA ots news: ESMA and the Austrian Financial Market Authority welcome EURIBOR panel enlargement Wien (APA-ots) - On 29 September 2022, the European Money Markets Institute (EMMI), EURIBOR administrator, announced that Raiffeisen Bank International AG (RBI) will join the EURIBOR panel on 2 November 2022. ESMA and the Financial Market Authority Austria FMA welcome the inclusion of RBI in the panel as a positive development for users of EURIBOR and for safeguarding market confidence in this critical benchmark in general. Verena Ross, ESMA Chair, said: "The enlargement of the EURIBOR panel will contribute to the robustness and reliability of EURIBOR by supporting its capacity to measure its underlying market. The EURIBOR panel today does not include any banks from Austria, so the addition of Raiffeisen Bank International AG has the further benefit of enlarging the geographical base of the EURIBOR calculation. ESMA invites other credit institutions, which are active in the euro unsecured money market, to consider becoming members of the EURIBOR panel. Eduard Muller, Executive Director Austrian Financial Market Authority FMA, said: "The EURIBOR is by far and away the most frequently used reference rate in the markets of Central Eastern and South East Europe. It is therefore particularly important that this rate is also based on data taken from these markets. We particularly welcome RBIs entry into the EURIBOR panel, which ensures that this is now the case. Under the Benchmarks Regulation (BMR), ESMA is responsible for the supervision of EMMI as the administrators of the EU critical benchmark EURIBOR, and the National Competent Authorities are responsible for the supervision of the banks contributing to EURIBOR. The Austrian FMA will be responsible for the supervision of RBI under the BMR when the bank will start contributing to the EURIBOR panel. ESMA and the supervisors of the EURIBOR panel banks closely cooperate on EURIBOR related matters as they are, respectively, the chair and the members of the EURIBOR College of supervisors. Notes for editors 1. ESMA is the European Unions securities markets regulator. Its mission is to enhance investor protection and promote stable and orderly financial markets. It achieves these objectives through four activities: i. assessing risks to investors, markets and financial stability; ii. completing a single rulebook for EU financial markets; iii. promoting supervisory convergence; and iv. directly supervising specific financial entities. 2. ESMA achieves its mission within the European System of Financial Supervision (ESFS) through active cooperation with the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA), the European Systemic Risk Board, and with national authorities with competencies in securities markets (NCAs). 3. The FMA is the independent, autonomous and integrated supervisory authority for the Austrian financial market. It is an integral part of the European System of Financial Supervisors, and represents Austria in relevant committees in European institutions, and cooperates closely and actively with the network of supervisors. 4. The statutory aims of the FMA are to: i. contribute towards financial market stability in Austria, ii. increase confidence in the efficient functioning of Austrias financial market, iii. protect investors, creditors and consumers in accordance with legal provisions, and iv. act in a preventive manner with respect to compliance with supervisory standards, while also punishing breaches committed in a consistent manner. Ruckfragehinweis: FMA Klaus Grubelnik Mobil: +43 676 88 249 516 klaus.grubelnik@fma.gv.at ESMA Sarah Edwards Tel.: +33 (0)1 58 36 43 27 press@esma.europa.eu Digitale Pressemappe: http://www.ots.at/pressemappe/694/aom *** OTS-ORIGINALTEXT PRESSEAUSSENDUNG UNTER AUSSCHLIESSLICHER INHALTLICHER VERANTWORTUNG DES AUSSENDERS - WWW.OTS.AT *** OTS0080 2022-10-03/11:00 REPLY [EXM, STAR: REY] announces today that Wemanity Group, www.wemanity.com, a leader in France and Benelux in agile digital transformations, has joined Reply network of companies. Founded in 2013 in Paris, and having expanded its activities to Lille, Brussels, Antwerp, The Hague, Luxembourg, and Casablanca, Wemanity's purpose is to reinvent the future of work thanks to Agile, innovation, and cooperation. The group's skills range from new management methods to the design and delivery of digital products. This is how it helps companies making their organizations become customer-centric, in an efficient, agile and sustainable way. Wemanity's clients include the largest French and European groups in all industry sectors, with a predominance in the financial, luxury, retail, media and energy sectors. The investment in Wemanity is part of Reply's international growth strategy. With Wemanity, Reply acquires new skills and a critical size in France. "Wemanity said Mario Rizzante, Chairman of Reply is characterised by a strong entrepreneurial drive and a constant focus on management and technological innovation. With Wemanity, our goal is to expand the Reply footprint into the French and Benelux markets with a focus on digital transformation projects, an area where all the main industry players are concentrating most of their investments." "For Wemanity stated Jean-Christophe Conticello it is a great opportunity to become part of the Reply companies' network and benefit from their expertise and experience in terms of innovations while keeping a great latitude and autonomy in the development of Wemanity. The world of work is capsizing under the tsunami of new technologies, and we had to partner up with the best to help our customers face it. Furthermore being part of a global group means a great opportunity for our employees in terms of mobility and learning. And it is obviously an incredible enrichment of our capacity to deliver technological projects, as well as a guarantee of solidity and capacity for investment and growth in our core markets, which are France and the Benelux countries." Besides its core Agile competencies and leadership, Wemanity had already created an ecosystem of startups in the fields of AI, Design, training, cyber security and digital delivery. Today, by joining Reply, Wemanity enters a new dimension and gives itself the means to stay ahead of the market and to offer its customers ever more innovative, global and transformative solutions. REPLY Reply [EXM, STAR: REY] is specialized in the design and implementation of solutions based on new communication channels and digital media. Reply is a network of highly focused companies supporting key European industrial groups operating in the telecom and media, industry and services, banking, insurance and public administration sectors in the definition and development of business models enabled for the new paradigms of AI, cloud computing, digital media and the Internet of Things. Reply services include: Consulting, System Integration and Digital Services. www.reply.com WEMANITY Wemanity is a unique consulting group designed to help organisations drive their transformation. It helps its clients become customer-centric, flexible and high-performing in a sustainable way. To drive their client's end-to-end transformation, it gathers complementary expertises within the same team, cooperating effectively thanks to a shared culture, common ways of working, and assets. Founded in 2013 and established in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Morocco, Wemanity has 450 employees and a network of partners in 17 countries. For more information: www.wemanity.com This press release is a translation, the Italian version will prevail. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005562/en/ Contacts: REPLY Media Contacts Fabio Zappelli f.zappelli@reply.com Tel. +390117711594 Aaron Miani a.miani@reply.com Tel. +390117711594 Investor Relation Contacts Riccardo Lodigiani r.lodigiani@reply.com Tel. +390117711594 Michael Lueckenkoetter m.lueckenkoetter@reply.com Tel. +49524150091017 WEMANITY Media Contacts Rumeur Publique Victor Esteves victor.esteves@rumeurpubilque.fr Ines Hadi ines.hadi@rumeurpublique.fr Tel. 01 55 74 84 90 HALIFAX, NS / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Namibia Critical Metals Inc. ("Namibia Critical Metals" or the "Company" or "NMI") (TSXV:NMI)(OTC Pink:NMREF) is pleased to announce the results of its Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") for the Lofdal Heavy Rare Earth Project "2B-4" ("Lofdal" or the "Project") in Namibia. This PEA aims at a significantly larger annual run-of-mine and plant throughput of 2 million tonnes per year and longer mine life than the historical PEA of 2014 by mining from two sub-deposits namely "Pit 2B" and "Pit 4". Further, the processing flow sheet was simplified to a direct flotation of the run-of-mine material and expanded to include a hydrometallurgical unit producing a >98% mixed rare earth oxide as final product instead of xenotime concentrate. The Lofdal deposit has the potential for significant production of dysprosium and terbium, two of the most valuable heavy rare earth elements. The Project is being developed in joint venture with Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation ("JOGMEC") targeting a long term, sustainable supply of heavy rare earths to Japan. Highlights: Net Present Value - NPV (5) of $632.7 Million USD (pre-tax) and $391 Million USD after-tax Internal Rate of Return (IRR) - 34% pre-tax and 28% after tax Life of mine nominal cash flow of $1.1 billion pre-tax, $698.7 million after-tax Initial Capital Costs - $207 Million USD including a 30% contingency Capital Payback Period - 3.2 years after-tax Approximate Average Annual Production - 2,000 tonnes TREO including 117 tonnes Dysprosium and 17.5 tonnes Terbium PEA is based on mining of only 26 million tonnes resource or about 50% of the 53 million tonnes in the Mineral Resource Estimate issued in June 2021 Estimated 16-year mine life with 13 million tonnes of low-grade stockpile likely expanding the life of mine The price for Rare Earth Oxides used: Dysprosium oxide USD$587/kg and Terbium oxide USD$2,493/kg. Average basket price of USD$91/kg including third party separation costs Cautionary Note: The preliminary economic assessment is preliminary in nature and includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them to enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have a demonstrated economic viability Darrin Campbell, President of Namibia Critical Metals stated: "This is a major step forward in establishing Lofdal as a world-class heavy rare project and a globally significant potential supplier of Dysprosium and Terbium, the two most valuable rare earth metals. This strong economic analysis supports the continued rapid development of Lofdal and we are moving forward with the next steps including Pre-Feasibility Study of this extended mining operation over the next few months. This robust economic assessment is only on 50% of our existing resource and we believe there is still considerable upside in exploration. Currently, processing test work continues, and it is expected to further significantly improve recoveries in all processing steps which will allow the Lofdal project to become one of the major future sources of dysprosium and terbium globally." Lofdal deposit The Lofdal Heavy Rare Earths deposit represents a district-scale (20 km x 10 km) heavy rare earth element (HREE) mineralisation in subvolcanic hydrothermal alteration zones. While high grade zones (>0.2% HREE) occur locally, the majority of the deposit resembles tens of meters wide and kilometer-long zones of low grade HREE-mineralisation with an average grade of about 0.1% HREE. In order to develop the Lofdal project into a long-term producer of HREE, the Company focussed recent processing test work on cost-efficient technologies to upgrade lower grade material aiming at effects of economy of scale in a potential large-scale mining operation. The Company mined a total of 34,500 tonnes of mineralised material from a starter pit in the central Area 4 deposit in October 2021 (Press release 29 November 2021). A 500 tonne sample was taken from the mineralized zone at a depth between 12 and 15 metres in order to minimize effects of surface related oxidation. The material was blended to provide homogenized samples which are representative of the wider deposit at a grade of about 0.187% TREO for bulk sample test work. Summary of Mining Results The proposed mining method is conventional open pit mining. Mineralised rock and waste would be drilled, blasted, loaded by hydraulic shovels and hydraulic excavators into off-highway dump trucks, and hauled to the processing plant. The basis for the pit design work was the mineral resource block model that was developed by MSA as part of Mineral Resource Estimate (see NI-43-101 Technical Report and press release dated June 30,2021). The proposed mining method is the development of a slot in front of the mineralised zone at each level. The centralized slot will enable waste mining on one side while mining mineralised material on the other side. This methodology will also facilitate separating mineralised material from waste material. The target ROM feed to the processing plant is 2,000,000 tonnes per annum. The plant feed is mineralised material with a TREO >= 0.1%. In the current schedule the production ramps up to this over 4 years. Mineralised material with TREO >=0.05% and <0.1% is sent to a stockpile so it may be processed at a later stage if economics allow. The combined Life of Mine of the two pits is 16 years. Due to the nature of the deposit, the resultant pits are narrow and deep. No backfilling is contemplated. An assumed maximum pit slope angle of 63 is applied to all slopes other than the low wall side, which follows the orebody and is at approximately 50. With the inclusion of the ramp system the overall highwall slope in Pit 4 is approximately 55. During the PFS stage, a switch to underground mining will be considered for more cost-efficient mining of the lower levels in the current pit shell as well as to expand mining towards deeper parts of the resource. Summary of Processing Results Flotation test program The metallurgical bulk sample test program was amended to include flotation tests directly on the fresh, low-grade sample, by-passing initially planned XRT and XRF sorting which would result in additional losses. Iron removal by magnetic separation was moved to post flotation on a smaller concentrate stream reducing CAPEX and OPEX with minimal losses. Flotation test work was carried out at SGS Canada Inc. in Lakefield, Ontario, and at UVR-FIA GmbH in Freiberg, Germany. Both institutions, cumulatively conducted over 120 individual flotation tests using several types of collectors, depressants and considered thrifting of physical flotation conditions. The impact of high intensity conditioning ahead of flotation yielded clearly improved flotation performance. Best flotation results in regard to upgrade, recoveries and operating costs were achieved using moderate dosages of the collector Florrea 3900 and Calgon as depressant. Cleaner flotation concentrates from positive test runs produced at an overall mass pull of 2.7-3.9% with a product grade of 4-6% TREO and a recovery of up to 70% TREO. More importantly, the high value Heavy Rare Earth Elements, mainly hosted in xenotime, showed significantly better recoveries (58-75% HREO) than the Light Rare Earth Elements (49-58% LREO). Flotation tests on finer grind material reached up to 75.2% recovery for the Heavy Rare Earths Oxides which represents a significant upside potential currently tested. After defining the optimal flotation conditions, bulk flotation tests were conducted in quadruplicate to produce a flotation concentrate for downstream hydrometallurgical testing. Four bulk flotation tests demonstrated repeatable flotation performances on the low-grade feed material. Significant upside potential also remains in further optimizing flotation conditions. Hydrometallurgical test work and results The mineral concentrate produced by bulk flotation was used for downstream hydrometallurgical testing. Four bulk flotation tests demonstrated repeatable flotation performances on the low grade direct run-of-mine feed material. The cleaner flotation from the bulk test runs produced a concentrate grade TREO ranging from 4.7 - 6%. This flotation concentrate marks the third such concentrate tested at the laboratories of SGS in Lakefield, Ontario, to determine the potential for producing a marketable rare earth product with minimal impurities. The previous hydrometallurgical test work at SGS had demonstrated the acid bake route is preferred due to lower reagent costs and higher recovery of the heavy rare earths compared to the caustic crack route. A total of three acid bake and water leach tests were completed throughout the current test program to investigate the dissolution of rare earth elements (REE) and the behaviour of gangue minerals through the addition of sulphuric acid at elevated temperatures (300C) and at a range of acid dosages (1-1.5 t/t concentrate basis). Under previously determined optimum conditions (2021 test program at SGS Canada), these tests showed very good REE recoveries with 96% for yttrium, 95% for dysprosium and 94% for terbium. Results of the impurity removal and crude REE precipitation tests on the leached solutions corroborated chemistries with the previous test programs on the two flotation concentrates with low co-precipitation of RE's in the impurity removal stage (between 1-9% as compared to between 1-15% in previous) with similar precipitation of impurities. While the results are positive, there remains room to optimise these processes regarding OPEX and CAPEX as well as recoveries in continuous pilot plant testing during pre-feasibility study. The addition of a hydrometallurgical plant at Lofdal would create further jobs in the southern Kunene Region of Namibia and provide a marketable product for export. The rare earth oxalate product with thorium and uranium levels below 3 ppm would be acceptable for import into Japan without restrictions or penalties. Table 6 - Total Capital Costs Summary (US$) Direct Mining Costs1 - Direct Mine Site Processing Costs 117,577,231 Direct Tailings Storage Facility Costs 13,628,361 SUB TOTAL INITIAL CAPITAL COSTS 131,205,593 Sustaining Capital Mining - Sustaining Capital Processing 6,010,090 Sustaining Capital Tailings Storage Facility 5,432,266 Mine Closure Costs 5,000,000 Indirect Costs 18,560,082 Contingency 40,873,816 TOTAL CAPITAL COSTS 207,081,846 1Mining will be conducted via contractor, all contractor capital recovery is reflected in the mining operating costs. Market Analysis - Pricing A price deck has been developed for the Lofdal project based on an internal review of pricing as well as peer reports (Mkango Resources LTD DFS July, 2022, and Search Minerals PEA June, 2022) which in turn were developed based on third party independent market forecast analysis. The projected REO distribution for Lofdal concentrates is also presented in Table 7. The projected basket price is US$103.64. Table 7 - Pricing US$/Kg Pricing Forecast for REE Pricing Used for Analysis Distribution La2O3 $ - 9.2% Ce2O3 $ - 16.0% Pr2O3 $ 201.00 1.7% Nd2O3 $ 212.00 6.3% Sm2O3 $ 5.00 2.2% Eu2O3 $ 36.00 1.1% Gd2O3 $ 109.00 4.3% Tb2O3 $ 2,493.00 0.9% Dy2O3 $ 587.00 6.2% Ho2O3 $ 290.00 1.3% Er2O3 $ 64.00 3.8% Yb2O3 $ 20.00 3.5% Lu2O3 $ 947.00 0.5% Y2O3 $ 17.00 42.4% Tm2O3 $ 500.00 0.6% Average Basket Value1 $ 103.64 1Pricing used before refining charges of $12/kg TREO Economic Analysis The economic analysis assumes that the Project will be 100% equity financed and uses parameters relevant as of September 2022, under conditions likely to be applicable to project development and operation and analyzes the sensitivity of the Project to changes in the key Project parameters. All costs have been presented in United States Dollars (US$) and wherever applicable conversion from South African Rand (ZAR) has utilized an exchange ratio (ZAR/US$) of 16.07. Mining and treatment data, capital cost estimates and operating cost estimates have been put into a base case financial model to calculate the IRR and NPV based on calculated Project after tax cash flows. The scope of the financial model has been restricted to the Project level and as such, the effects of interest charges and financing have been excluded. For the purposes of the PEA, the evaluation is based on 100% of the Project cash flows before distribution of profits to the equity owners. Both pre-tax and after-tax cash flows have taken 5% royalty payments into account. At a discount rate of 5% the Project is anticipated to yield a pre-tax IRR of 34% with a NPV of US$632,739,693, and an after tax IRR of 28% with a NPV of US$390,982,730. Cumulative cash flows are US$1,110,393,637 pre-tax and US$698,691,741 after tax over the sixteen year LOM (Table 1). The Project is expected to pay back initial capital within the first 3.2 years. Sensitivity Analysis Pre Tax NPV at Range of Operating Costs Discount 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 110% 120% 130% 140% 5% $1004.5M $911.6M $818.6M $725.7M $632.7M $539.8M $446.8M $353.9M $261.0M 7% $822.6M $744.0M $665.4M $586.8M $508.3M $429.7M $351.1M $272.5M $193.9M 8% $745.8M $673.3M $600.8M $528.3M $455.8M $383.3M $310.8M $238.4M $165.9M 9% $676.9M $609.9M $542.9M $475.9M $408.9M $341.9M $274.9M $207.9M $140.9M 10% $615.0M $552.9M $490.9M $428.8M $366.8M $304.8M $242.7M $180.7M $118.6M Pre-Tax NPV At Range of Capital Costs $ 124.2 $ 145.0 $ 165.7 $ 186.4 $207.1M $ 227.8 $ 248.5 $ 269.2 $ 289.9 Discount 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 110% 120% 130% 140% 5% $708.0M $689.2M $670.4M $651.5M $632.7M $613.9M $595.1M $576.3M $557.5M 7% $580.9M $562.8M $544.6M $526.4M $508.3M $490.1M $471.9M $453.7M $435.6M 8% $527.3M $509.4M $491.6M $473.7M $455.8M $437.9M $420.1M $402.2M $384.3M 9% $479.2M $461.6M $444.1M $426.5M $408.9M $391.3M $373.7M $356.1M $338.5M 10% $436.0M $418.7M $401.4M $384.1M $366.8M $349.5M $332.2M $314.9M $297.6M Pre-Tax NPV at Basket Price Levels Discount $70 $75 $80 $85 $92 $95 $100 $105 $110 5% $240.1M $330.8M $421.5M $512.3M $632.7M $693.7M $784.4M $883.2M $965.9M 7% $177.2M $253.7M $330.2M $406.7M $508.3M $559.7M $636.2M $719.4M $789.2M 8% $150.9M $221.3M $291.8M $362.3M $455.8M $503.2M $573.6M $650.3M $714.6M 9% $127.4M $192.5M $257.5M $322.5M $408.9M $452.6M $517.6M $588.4M $647.7M 10% $106.5M $166.6M $226.8M $286.9M $366.8M $407.2M $467.4M $532.8M $587.6M Pre-Tax NPV at Varying Recovery Ranges Discount 43% 48% 53% 57% 59% 61% 64% 69% 74% 5% $178.0M $320.1M $462.2M $575.9M $632.7M $689.6M $774.9M $917.0M $1059.1M 7% $124.8M $244.6M $364.5M $460.3M $508.3M $556.2M $628.1M $747.9M $867.7M 8% $102.6M $213.0M $323.4M $411.7M $455.8M $500.0M $566.2M $676.6M $787.0M 9% $82.9M $184.8M $286.6M $368.1M $408.9M $449.6M $510.8M $612.6M $714.5M 10% $65.3M $159.5M $253.7M $329.1M $366.8M $404.5M $461.0M $555.2M $649.4M Recommendations This PEA was based on the Mineral Resource Estimate produced by The MSA Group in 2021. Significant upside potential exists down dip of Area 4 and Area 2B as well as along the several kilometer long strike extensions of the mineralization in Areas 2 and 5. Therefore, with further exploration the run-of-mine and/or life time of the Lofdal mine could be significantly increased. Sorting of the run-of-mine material was excluded from this PEA. However, historical and recent test work at TOMRA showed several approaches for an optimization of the Lofdal mine. Further studies will focus on three run-of-mine streams which will entail (1) higher grade material directly supplied to the flotation circuit while (2) lower grade material will run through a low filter XRT sorting with an upgrade factor expected in the range 2.0-2.5, and (3) very low grade (stockpile) material which will be XRT sorted with a high filter aiming at upgrades factors in the range 3.5-4 with relatively low recoveries around 50%. The latter will also source about 13 Mt of stockpile material which is not included in the current PEA. While completing this PEA, further flotation tests are continuing at SGS aiming at further optimization of flotation. Specifically, grind size and collector dosage optimization bears significant upside for better recoveries and lower OPEX. QUALIFIED PERSONS AND 43-101 TECHNICAL REPORT A NI 43-101 compliant report entitled Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Lofdal Heavy Rare Earths 2B-4 Project, Namibia ("the Report") will be filed on SEDAR within 45 days. SGS Canada Inc. is the principal author under the supervision of Michael Archer who is a Qualified Person in accordance with NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Sections of the Report dealing with property description and location, accessibility, climate, local resources, infrastructure and physiography, history, geological setting and mineralisation, deposit types, exploration, drilling, sample preparation, analyses and security and data verification were completed by The MSA Group under the supervision of Jeremy Witley, (BSc Hons, MSc (Eng.)) and Swinden Geoscience Consultants under the supervision of Scott Swinden, (Ph.D P.Geo), who are Qualified Persons in accordance with NI 43-101 - standards of disclosure for mineral projects. The section of the Report dealing with mineral resource estimates was completed by The MSA Group under the supervision of Jeremy Witley, (BSc Hons, MSc (Eng.)) Sections of the Report, dealing with mining methods and mine capital and operating costs were completed by SGS Canada under the supervision of Bill van Breugel (BaSc Hons, P.Eng.) who is a Qualified Person in accordance with NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Sections of the Report, dealing with mining design and schedules were completed by BBMC RSA under the supervision of Johann Hager (BEng Hons, MEng Mining, P.Eng.) who is a Qualified Person in accordance with NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Each of Michael Archer, Jeremy Witley, Scott Swinden, Johann Hager and Bill van Breugel have reviewed and approved the technical disclosure in this press release. Rainer Ellmies, PhD, MScGeol, EurGeol, AusIMM and Vice President of Namibia Critical Metals Inc., is the Company's Qualified Person and has reviewed and approved the geological data in this press release. About Namibia Critical Metals Inc. Namibia Critical Metals Inc. holds a diversified portfolio of exploration and advanced stage projects in Namibia focused on the development of sustainable and ethical sources of metals for the battery, electric vehicle and associated industries. The two advanced stage projects in the portfolio are Lofdal and Epembe. The Company also holds significant land positions in areas favourable for gold mineralization. Heavy Rare Earths: The Lofdal Dysprosium-Terbium Project is the Company's most advanced project being fully permitted with a Mining Licence (ML 200) issued in 2021. The project is being developed in joint venture with Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation ("JOGMEC"). About Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) and the JV JOGMEC is a Japanese government independent administrative agency which seeks to secure stable resource supplies for Japan. JOGMEC has a strong reputation as a long term, strategic partner in mineral projects globally. JOGMEC facilitates opportunities with Japanese private companies to secure supplies of natural resources for the benefit of the country's economic development. Rare earths are of critical importance to Japanese industrial interests and JOGMEC has extensive experience with all aspects of the sector. JOGMEC provided Lynas with US$250,000,000 in loans and equity in 2011 to ensure supplies of the Light Rare Earths metals suite to the Japanese industry. Namibia Critical Metals owns a 95% interest in the Lofdal project with the remaining 5% held for the benefit of historically disadvantaged Namibians. The terms of the JOGMEC joint venture agreement with the Company stipulate that JOGMEC provides $3,000,000 in Term 1 and $7,000,000 in Term 2 to earn a 40% interest in the Lofdal project. Term 3 calls for a further $10,000,000 of expenditures to earn an additional 10% interest. JOGMEC can also purchase another 1% for $5,000,000 and has first right of refusal to fully fund the project through to commercial production and to purchase all production at market prices. The collective interests of NMI and historically disadvantaged Namibians cannot be diluted below a 26% carried working interest upon payment of $5,000,000 to JOGMEC for the dilution protection. The JV Agreement is structured such that no NMI equity will be issued and it is totally non-dilutive to NMI shareholders. To date, JOGMEC, has approved funding Term 1 and 2 expenditures totaling $7,800,000. Other exploration projects: The Company's Exclusive Prospecting Licenses ("EPLs") prospective for gold are located in the Central Namibian Gold Belt which hosts a number of significant orogenic gold deposits including the Navachab Gold Mine, the Otjikoto Gold Mine and more recently the discovery of the Twin Hills deposit. At the Erongo Gold Project, stratigraphic equivalents to the meta-sediments hosting the recent Osino gold discovery at Twin Hills have been identified and exploration is progressing over this highly prospective area. The Grootfontein Base Metal and Gold Project has potential for magmatic copper-nickel mineralization, Mississippi Valley-type zinc-lead-vanadium mineralization and Otjikoto-style gold mineralization. Interpretation of geophysical data and regional geochemical soil sampling have identified first gold targets. The common shares of Namibia Critical Metals Inc. trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "NMI". 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. For more information please contact - Namibia Critical Metals Inc. Darrin Campbell, President Tel: +01 (902) 835-8760 Email: Info@NamibiaCMI.com Web site: www.NamibiaCriticalMetals.com The foregoing information may contain forward-looking information relating to the future performance of Namibia Critical Metals Inc. forward-looking information, specifically, that concerning future performance, is subject to certain risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties are detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the appropriate securities commissions. SOURCE: Namibia Critical Metals Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/718478/Namibia-Critical-Metals-Inc-Announces-Positive-Preliminary-Economic-Assessment-for-the-Significantly-Expanded-Lofdal-Heavy-Rare-Earth-Project-2B-4-With-6327-Million-Pre-Tax-NPV AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Xtra Energy Corp. (OTC PINK:XTPT ) is pleased to announce the details of a second group of historical antimony mines claimed by Xtra Energy Corp. Xtra Energy recently completed the required filing and recording of an 825 acre, 40 lode claim property in the Bernice Mining District surrounding the historically documented "Antimony King", County of Churchill, State of Nevada see: 9/14/2022 Company News. With that completed Xtra Energy Corp. started an extensive mapping program of this 825 acre property, disclosing the first group of Antimony Mines claimed on 9/20/2022 Company News. As a result of the continued mapping program, management is excited to announce the ownership of three additional historically documented antimony mines. The three additional mines are The "Marguerite No. 2 Prospect" located at the NE corner of our American Antimony #31 lode claim, the "Marguerite Group" located on the border of our American Antimony #34 and #35 lode claims The "Vandenburg Group" located at the SE corner of our American Antimony #26 lode claim. This brings Xtra Energy Corp's total of historically documented antimony mines to five under 100% Ownership claim. Locations can be referenced in the topographical map below. Here are some brief details on each of the three announced mines: The Marguerite No. 2 Prospect as described by Lawrence, Edmond., in "Antimony Deposits of Nevada"; nbmg bull. 61 is along the north side of Bernice Canyon, 3.3 miles from the mouth. It was developed by two adits, one directly above the other. Sixty feet from the portal, the lower adit intersected a vein striking 15 degrees NW and dipping 20 degrees SW. This vein was followed for 55ft by a drift. A second vein was also discovered intersecting the first, both consisting of elongate pods and streaks of stibnite in quartz. Several veinlets of quartz, calcite, and stibnite extend between these two veins which was estimated to be 2 percent antimony. In the upper adit of Marguerite No. 2 the vein was encountered 70ft from the portal and followed for 30ft by drifting. No records of ore from this adit were found. The Marguerite Group also referred to as the Marguerite No. 3 Prospect is situated in a ravine on the south side of Bernice Canyon 2.9 miles from the mouth of the canyon. The prospect is developed by a 10 - 12ft open cut. The open cut is in an 18ft sill, striking NW 50 degrees and dipping 85 degrees SW. Stibnite occurs as to 1 inch stringers along prominent joints. A sample taken from these stringers assayed 57.57 percent antimony. An additional sample taken from the dump assayed 5.9 percent antimony. The Vandenburg Group is approximately 0.36 miles from the Marguerite Group. Active operations were recorded in 1976 and 1984 followed up by Nevada State Mine Inspections the following years. At the time owned and operated by the Bernice Milling Company with notes of antimony production on record. To our knowledge no other records exist leaving the grade and tonnage of this antimony production unknown. The XTPT Chairman Mac J. Shahsavar, P. Eng. commented "We continue to prove up an increasing portfolio of antimony-rich assets. Xtra Energy now has 100% claim to five documented antimony mines and just under a 1 million ton inferred reserves all in just three months work. We will continue to carry out further work to prove up this portfolio." References Marguerite No. 2 Prospect: NEV. BUREAU OF MINES AND GEOL. BULLETIN 61, 1963, P. 30. NEV. BUREAU OF MINES AND GEOL. BULLETIN 83, 1974, TABLE 13, P. 62 References Marguerite Group: LAWRENCE, E.F., 1963, ANTIMONY DEPOSITS OF NEVADA; N.B.M.G. BULL. 61. WILLDEN, R. AND R.C. SPEED, 1974, GEOLOGY AND MINERAL DEPOSITS OF CHURCHILL COUNTY, NEV; NBMG. BULL 83. References Vandenburg Group: NEV. DIV. MINE INSPECTION, 1977, DIRECTORY OF NEVADA MINE NEV. DIV. MINE INSPECTION, 1985, DIRECTORY OF NEVADA MINE * Topographical view of Xtra Energy's 825 acre, 40 lode claim Antimony project. Contact & Learn More: Xtra Energy Corporation Phone: 512-412-3636 Corporate Website: https://americanantimony.com/ Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtra-energy-corp/ Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/xtra_corp Corporate Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/xtraenergycorp/ About Xtra Energy Corp. Xtra Energy Corp. is an antimony exploration company focused on developing its flagship project "American Antimony". Known in historical records as the "Antimony King Mine" located approximately 31 miles northeast of Eastgate, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corp. holds a 100% ownership in a 40 lode claim, 825 acre antimony project surrounding the historical Antimony King and covering several documented antimony producers. The Company is seeking to develop this portfolio of potentially antimony-rich assets to become a major supplier of antimony based products. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc. Our public filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the OTC Markets at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/XTPT/disclosure. SOURCE: Xtra Energy Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/718477/Xtra-Energy-Corp-Announces-the-Second-Group-of-Historical-Antimony-Mines-Recently-Claimed WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Viasat Inc. (VSAT), a global leader in satellite communications, announced Monday it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Link 16 Tactical Data Links (TDL) business to L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (LHX) for $1.96 billion, subject to customary transaction adjustments in accordance with the agreement. The sale is expected to result in cash proceeds to Viasat of approximately $1.8 billion net after estimated taxes, fees, and other expenses. Viasat's Link 16 Tactical Data Link business is part of its Government Systems segment. The sale includes the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) platforms and associated next-generation Link 16 terminals and handheld radios, as well as the Link 16 to space business. Viasat intends to use the proceeds of the Link 16 TDL sale to reduce net leverage and increase liquidity. The Link 16 TDL sale is expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2023 and is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Viasat received approval for the Link 16 TDL sale from Inmarsat's equity sponsors. 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. Digital Marketing Agency, Get The Clicks, helps companies to grow online through their full-service offering Orlando, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - Get The Clicks, a full-service Agency based in Florida, USA, is offering world class Digital Marketing for all their clients. While Get The Clicks specialize in the areas of SEO and Google Ads Management, other services include Web Design, Email Marketing, E-Commerce Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Enterprise Development and Government Contracting. Get The Clicks also pairs up with existing agencies to co-manage clients in a mutually beneficial arrangement that helps both agencies financially and through knowledge-sharing. Get The Clicks takes a common-sense approach to Digital Marketing. The Company understand the issues clients have experienced whether that be with agencies or with Digital Marketing in general. The digital world can feel like a labyrinth sometimes with people getting lost in a sea of terminology of impressions and clicks and conversions without understanding what any of it actually means or how it works. Get The Clicks explains various part of the Digital Marketing world in simple, straightforward English, such as the post outlining how search engines work. It is this in-depth understanding that makes Get The Clicks so effective. A consultation, month-to-month services and lack of contracts shows that this is one Digital Agency driven to helping their clients grow. Get The Clicks has a Google Rating of 4.8 stars out of 5, as well as, countless awards - proof that their approach and efforts are successful. As a spokesperson for the agency said: "Our aim is to provide world class Digital Marketing solutions to all our clients. We understand that people see this industry as being filled with scams and false promises. We have heard from frustrated clients who have spent time on money on various agencies only to get zero results. We are here to restore trust and belief. We want to help companies grow, both through online metrics and bottom-line profit." About Get The Clicks: Get The Clicks has a passionate and dedicated team of twelve working out of Florida, USA, to provide companies with the best Digital Marketing solutions possible. Over the last ten years they have achieved superb results for numerous customers in the areas of Home, Legal and Medical services as well as others. Contact: Chiara Accardi 407-681-4100 37 N Orange Ave, # 420 Orlando, FL, US 32801 https://www.facebook.com/GetTheClicks https://twitter.com/gettheclicks https://www.instagram.com/get_the_clicks/ https://www.gettheclicks.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139218 New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - Hammer Technology Holdings (OTCQB: HMMR) ["Hammer Fiber Optics Holdings Corp"], recently announced that its flagship Fintech subsidiary, HammerPay, set to debut in Q4 2022, will launch a new mobile phone and web portal private digital e-wallet platform for market deployment in Africa. Powered by HammerPay, the Remittance Service Deliver Platform (RSDP) with its private digital e-wallet service will help banks, wallet operators, telecoms, as well as merchants and agents get fast access to digital infrastructure with the Wallet-as-a Service delivery model. The digital e-wallet platform in its initial release, Release 1.0 will feature facilities and functionalities that provide for Cash-in and Cash-Out; Bank to Wallet and Wallet to Bank; Money Remittance; Request Money; Scan to Pay; as well as Merchants and Agents Geolocation services. "We are partnering with a major financial services provider, one that we have built a strong, respected, and collaborative relationship with over the past 18 months in developing, integrating, testing, assuring, and customizing, our services and products. We are now bringing it all to market", said Gerald Sherman, the company's President and Chief Executive Officer. "As part of a mutually shared digital-first approach to deliver quantifiable outcomes to markets, we stand ready with our partners to deliver a range of innovative, expanding, reliable, and secured services - the kind of services that existing customers can take advantage of and benefit from; the kind of services that the underbanked and unbanked consumers can access as part of our larger ambition to drive and ensure financial inclusion across Africa. This is the kind of service that will leverage financial technology to improve people's lives; and continue to connect diaspora capital to the continent; beginning in my own country, Liberia", he added. The launch of the private digital e-wallet and its customized App and web portal with its range of innovative services will offer the market a truly unique and enabling service. HammerPay through its Africa distribution partnership as built over the last 18 months will see the company gain a foothold in the continent's rapidly growing Fintech space. Michael Cothill, Executive Chairman of parent company Hammer Technology Holdings said, "this launch, scheduled for Q4 2022, allows us to expand the focus of the company's investment resources into a more diversified technology strategy. As we coordinate joint public statements with our market partner over the next few weeks, our focus on partnering with financial services providers will show that we have taken the right path here; one that gives us access to markets and very solid relationships; one that will see us begin to enter countries in Africa, to serve customers under this diversified strategy and lay the groundwork for long term growth", he stated. The private digital e-wallet features dynamic color theming and a display of the active wallet real-time cash balance on a virtual card that appears in a top banner of the user front locked screen. Various tabs appears below that allows users to easily navigate the wallet services and functionalities. Accounting rows also appear further below to provide immediate, pending, and historical balances and report of transactions performed in the private digital e-wallet. Utilizing the Remittance Service Deliver Platform - powered by HammerPay, the private digital e-wallet will be available on both Apple iOS and Android operating systems for mobile users through the Google Play and Apple - App stores respectively upon launch of the service. Consumers, merchants and agents will have these offerings in a digital e-wallet App available for download, enrollment, registration, personalization, and transaction of services. Consumers, merchants, and agents will also have the digital e-wallet available through a bespoke web portal. In the future, as part of its successive release to address remittance, Release 1.1 of the private digital e-wallet will link bank ATM cards, debit, prepaid, and credit cards, as well as store merchant redemption virtual e-cards, for expandable wallet uses that will be extended to open and close-loop cross-border remittances. The release will incorporate merchant, agent, banking, and peer to peer transactions with regards to remittances. Release 1.1 will feature digital merchant e-card redemption; bill payments; web portal and digital e-wallet remittances, as well as e-commerce services. The current release, Release 1.0, private digital e-Wallet, will begin rolling out on smartphones in Liberia, West Africa, with its scheduled launch for Q4 2022. About HammerPay HammerPay (USA) Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary and brand operated by Hammer Technology Holdings, is a mobile-rst digital technology product, powering stored-value digital services for businesses and consumers, including those previously left outside the digital revolution. HammerPay was developed to scale a highly attractive digital cash/cashless solution to be deployed along with partners around the world, delivering expertise for both developed and developing economies. HammerPay connects mobile consumers to cashless purchasing and bill payments, instantly enabling consumer broad adoption. For more information, contact Investor Relations at info@hammerpay.com. About Hammer Hammer Technology Holdings ["Hammer Fiber Optics Holdings Corp."] (OTCQB:HMMR) is a company investing in the future of technology. Hammer has broadened its strategy to focus on the rapidly evolving world of innovative technology and in an effort to keep pace, has restructured the group to allow for the creation of several related verticals. In addition to its "Everything Wireless" strategy which includes the deployment of high-speed fixed wireless service for residential and small business, Hammer has entered the Fintech industry which is rapidly becoming the mainstream technology powering today's telecommunication applications. For more information contact Investor Relations at info@hmmrgroup.com. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains projections and other forward-looking statements regarding future events or our future financial performance. All statements other than present and historical facts and conditions contained in this release, including any statements regarding our future results of operations and financial positions, business strategy, plans and our objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). These statements are only predictions and reflect our current beliefs and expectations with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and subject to risk and uncertainties and subject to change at any time. We operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Actual events or results may differ materially from those contained in the projections or forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this release are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139262 Regulatory News: In accordance with Article 14 of the Belgian Transparency law of 2 May 2007, Azelis Group NV (Brussels:AZE) has received the following transparency notification. Transparency notification from Akita Management Participation 1 SCSp Summary of the notification Akita Management Participation 1 SCSp has announced on September 28, 2022, that on September 23, 2022, it downward crossed the lowest threshold of 3.00% of the shares in Azelis Group NV. Akita Management Participation 1 SCSp has opted not to disclose its shareholding below the 3.00% threshold. Reason for the notification Downward crossing of the lowest threshold Acquisition or disposal of voting securities or voting rights Notification by A person that notifies alone Persons subject to the notification requirement Name Address (for legal entities) Akita Management Participation 1 SCSp 51A Boulevard Royal, 2449 Luxembourg Luxembourg Date on which the threshold is crossed 23 September 2022 Threshold that is crossed (in %) 3% Denominator 233,846,153 Notified details A) Voting rights Previous notification After the transaction # of voting rights # of voting rights % of voting rights Holders of voting rights Linked to securities Not linked to the securities Linked to securities Not linked to the securities Akita Management Participation 1 SCSp 7,580,306 TOTAL B) Equivalent financial instruments After the transaction Holders of equivalent financial instruments Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise period or date # of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is exercised % of voting rights Settlement TOTAL TOTAL (A B) # of voting rights % of voting rights CALCULATE Chain of controlled undertakings through which the holding is effectively held, if applicable Akita Management Participation 1 SCSp is not subject to any control from any of its shareholders. Additional information Not provided. The full transparency notifications can be consulted on the Azelis Group NV's website. - Ends - About Azelis Azelis is a leading global innovation service provider in the specialty chemical and food ingredients industry present in 57 countries across the globe with +3,000 employees. Our knowledgeable teams of industry, market and technical experts are each dedicated to a specific market within Life Sciences and Industrial Chemicals. We offer a lateral value chain of complementary products to more than 51,000 customers, supported by ~2,300 principal relationships, creating a turnover of 2.8 billion. Azelis Group NV is listed on Euronext Brussels under ticker AZE. Across our extensive network of more than 60 application laboratories, our award-winning staff help develop formulations and provide technical guidance throughout the customers' product development process. We combine a global market reach with a local footprint to offer a reliable, integrated and unique digital service to local customers and attractive business opportunities to principals. EcoVadis Platinum rated, Azelis is a leader in sustainability. We believe in building and nurturing solid, honest and transparent relationships with our people and partners. Impact through ideas. Innovation through formulation. www.azelis.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005598/en/ Contacts: For more information, please contact: Azelis investor-relations@azelis.com Capelle aan den IJssel, The Netherlands 3 October 2022 - Today, GeoJunxion publishes the convocation and meeting agenda for its 2022 Annual General Shareholders Meeting to be held on 15 November 2022. The meeting materials and the convocation including the agenda are available on the GeoJunxion website at this LINK (https://www.geojunxion.com/all-news/geojunxion-documents-annual-general-sharholders-meeting-on-15-november-2022/). INVITATION TO ATTEND THE 2022 GEOJUNXION N.V. ANNUAL GENERAL SHAREHOLDERSMEETING GeoJunxion N.V. (GOJXN.AS) invites shareholders to attend its Annual General Shareholders Meeting (AGMS) on Tuesday 15 November 2022 at 10:00 a.m (CET). This meeting, held as a hybrid "online and in-person", will be hosted from the GeoJunxion's offices located in Capelle a/d IJssel 2909 LC, Rivium Quadrant 75, 9th floor. This year, GeoJunxion provides its shareholders with two options to attend the meeting: online, via the live Microsoft Teams Webinar, or in-person. In any case, GeoJunxion recommends shareholders to provide their voting instructions using the proxy voting form no later than 8 November 2022, at 5:00 p.m. (CET) (in accordance with the usual procedures described in the convocation notice). Instructions on how to attend the webinar are outlined below in this convocation notice. A limited number of seats at the office of GeoJunxion in Capelle a/d IJssel will be allocated to shareholders, on a first come first served basis. Seats are available for those who are unable to use the online webinar or that prefer to attend in-person. Shareholders have to complete the mandatory registration in advance and preferably submit their voting instructions as detailed further below. For those who are unable to vote in advance or prefer the "live-voting", GeoJunxion will open an on-line voting session through Microsoft Teams Polls. Those attending in person and wish to vote during the meeting, are requested to bring a personal device (PC, mobile or tablet) to enable the on-line voting. The following agenda items are scheduled for the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in 2022: 1 Opening and Announcements Review of the Financial Year 2021 - 22 2 Business update and clarification on the Company's strategy 3 Report of the Management Board for financial year 2021-22 4 Report of the Supervisory Board for financial year 2021-22 5 Remuneration policy in financial year 2021-22 voting 6 Adoption of the minutes of the AGSM of 16 November 2021 voting Annual Accounts 2021 - 2022 7 Proposal to adopt the financial statements voting 8 Policy on result allocation (discussion item) voting 9 Proposal to not issue a dividend over 2021-22 voting 10 Corporate Governance (discussion item) 11 Proposal give discharge to the members of the Management Board voting 12 Proposal give discharge to the members of the Supervisory Board voting Supervisory Board 13 Proposal to authorize the Supervisory Board to nominate an external auditor voting Shares related authorizations 14 Authorization of the Management Board to issue ordinary shares or to grant rights to subscribe for ordinary shares up to 5% to cover Share Options issued to Staff and for general purposes. voting 15 Authorization of the Management Board to issue ordinary shares to enable the full or partial conversion of the Convertible loan into shares of the company. voting 16 Authorization of the Management Board to restrict or exclude preemptive rights in connection with agenda item 14 and 15. voting 17 Any other business 18 Closing of the Shareholders meeting Meeting documents The meeting documents will be made available for review or download on the on the GeoJunxion website at this LINK (https://www.geojunxion.com/all-news/geojunxion-documents-annual-general-sharholders-meeting-on-15-november-2022/). Those will include the Convocation and Agenda, Agenda clarifications and the proxy voting document. The documents will also be available at the offices of the Company, Rivium Quadrant 75, 2909 LC, Capelle aan den IJssel, Tel. 010-8851200, Fax 010-8851240 and at ING BANK N.V., Issuer Services, Location code TRC 02.039, Foppingadreef 7, 1102 BD, Amsterdam, Tel. 020-5636799, e-mail: iss.pas@ing.com (mailto:iss.pas@ing.com). A copy of these documents will be provided upon request. The Consolidated Annual Accounts of GeoJunxion for the accounting year ending per 30 June 2022 will be published on 27 October 2022. The Accounts will be published without an Auditor's opinion as all PIE/OOB Licensed Auditors in The Netherlands have declined the request for auditing services. Registration date Persons entitled to vote and/or attend the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders 2022, are holders of common shares, who on 19 October 2022, after processing of all settlements per this date (the Record Date) are registered as such in a (sub)register designated by the Management Board. The (sub)registers for bearer shares are those kept on the Record Date by the banks and brokers, which are according to Dutch Securities Giro Transfer Act (Wet giraal effectenverkeer) intermediaries (intermediairs) of the Dutch Central Securities Depositary (Euroclear Nederland). Registration Holders of common shares who wish to attend the 2022 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders either in person, by proxy or online, have to register for the meeting by Tuesday 8 November 2022, at 5:00 p.m. (CET) at the latest at ING BANK N.V., Issuer Services, Location code TRC 02.039, Foppingadreef 7, 1102 BD, Amsterdam, Tel. 020-5636799, e-mail: iss.pas@ing.com (mailto:iss.pas@ing.com) Attending the meeting online. We will use the Microsoft Teams Webinar online tool to give Shareholders the opportunity to participate to the shareholder's meeting and vote on the above items. Shareholders will be able to access the meeting via a simple web browser from PC, mobile or tablet. Once you have registered as a shareholder via ING, we will send you an e-mail to register for the webinar. You will receive a link to connect to the webinar. Please make sure you have registered with ING with the correct e-mail address. You can join a Teams Webinar anytime, from any device, whether or not you have a Microsoft Teams account. If you don't have a Teams account please click on the following links to learn how to join as a guest: Instructions (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/join-a-meeting-without-a-teams-account-c6efc38f-4e03-4e79-b28f-e65a4c039508ID0EDD=Desktop)for joining as a guest on Teams (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/join-a-meeting-without-a-teams-account-c6efc38f-4e03-4e79-b28f-e65a4c039508ID0EDD=Desktop)on PC (desktop/laptop) (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/join-a-meeting-without-a-teams-account-c6efc38f-4e03-4e79-b28f-e65a4c039508ID0EDD=Desktop) Instructions for joining as a guest on Teams on Mobile (or tablet) (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/join-a-meeting-without-a-teams-account-c6efc38f-4e03-4e79-b28f-e65a4c039508ID0EDD=Mobile) Proxy and voting instructions Holders of bearer shares who wish to attend the meeting by proxy have to submit a power of attorney and provide instructions for the person voting on their behalf. In that case the shareholder needs to register his/her shareholding as described above and, at the same time, provide an electronic copy of the proxy. This proxy needs to be received no later than Tuesday 8 November 2022, at 5:00 p.m. (CET) at the service desk of ING Bank NV (e-mail: iss.pas@ing.com (mailto:iss.pas@ing.com)). The shareholder can inform the Company of such proxy using the following e-mail address: info@GeoJunxion.com (mailto:info@GeoJunxion.com). Proxy documents can be downloaded from this (https://www.geojunxion.com/all-news/geojunxion-documents-annual-general-sharholders-meeting-on-15-november-2022/)page on the GeoJunxion (https://www.geojunxion.com/all-news/geojunxion-documents-annual-general-sharholders-meeting-on-15-november-2022/)website (https://www.geojunxion.com/all-news/geojunxion-documents-annual-general-sharholders-meeting-on-15-november-2022/). When attending the meeting in person, the proxy holder needs to have the proof of the registration, a copy of the proxy document and a valid identification document. Identification Holders of registered shares or proxy holders who wish to attend the meeting in person will be requested to provide a valid identification document before being admitted to the meeting. Share Capital and voting rights At the time of issuing this convocation notice, the company has a share capital of 3.183.077 consisting of 4.244.102 ordinary shares with a nominal value of 0,75. The number of voting right amounts to 4.244.102. Capelle aan den IJssel, 3 October 2022 The Management and Supervisory Board GeoJunxion N.V. www.GeoJunxion.com (https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.geojunxion.com%2F&data=04%7C01%7Cfrancesco.altamura%40geojunxion.com%7C9ed602b9e8ac44d8d8e608d987544aa3%7C8487d18b33354fcda87773079cbd37aa%7C0%7C0%7C637689618368323148%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=q3Nd7QFQ8yJid%2FEddtmq%2F55DRXO1XIbimVLE0bT6rhQ%3D&reserved=0) Attachments Minutes of (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Minutes-of-AGSM-GeoJunxion-NV-16-Nov-2021_Final.pdf)A (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Minutes-of-AGSM-GeoJunxion-NV-16-Nov-2021_Final.pdf)GSM (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Minutes-of-AGSM-GeoJunxion-NV-16-Nov-2021_Final.pdf)GeoJunxion (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Minutes-of-AGSM-GeoJunxion-NV-16-Nov-2021_Final.pdf)16 November 2021 (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Minutes-of-AGSM-GeoJunxion-NV-16-Nov-2021_Final.pdf) Additional clarifications to the agenda of the 2022 (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Agenda-Clarifications-Shareholders-Meeting-GeoJunxion-NV-15-Nov-2022.pdf)AGSM (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Agenda-Clarifications-Shareholders-Meeting-GeoJunxion-NV-15-Nov-2022.pdf) Proxy GeoJunxion N.V. (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-GeoJunxion-N.V.-AGSM-15-November-2022-EN.pdf)A (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-GeoJunxion-N.V.-AGSM-15-November-2022-EN.pdf)GSM 15 November 2022 (https://www.geojunxion.com/wp-content/uploads/Proxy-GeoJunxion-N.V.-AGSM-15-November-2022-EN.pdf) VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of new interviews with Psyence Group, Vertex Resource and Green River Gold discussing 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. Psyence Group (CSE:PSYG) exports psilocybin mushrooms to Canada and Portugal Psyence Group (PSYG) has successfully exported medical-grade psilocybin mushrooms to both Canada and Portugal. The mushrooms were exported to Psilo Scientific Ltd. in Canada and Psilo Pharma Inc. in Portugal. Dr. Neil Maresky, CEO of Psyence Group, sat down with Sabrina Cuthbert to discuss the news. For the full interview with Dr. Neil Maresky and to learn about Psyence Group, click here. Vertex Resource Group (TSXV:VTX) acquires Young EnergyServe Inc. Vertex Resource Group (VTX) has acquired Young EnergyServe Inc. The acquisition was completed for a purchase price of $13.8 million, including 5.45 million common shares. Terry Stephenson, President & CEO of Vertex Resource Group, sat down with Sabrina Cuthbert to discuss the news. For the full interview with Terry Stephenson and to learn about Vertex Resources click here. Green River Gold (CSE:CCR) details new intercepts and deeper drilling program Green River Gold (CCR) has discovered more nickel and chromium at its Quesnel Nickel Project. Drilling continues at zones 1 and 2 with follow-up work on magnetic anomalies at Fontaine Lode planned before year-end. CEO Perry Little spoke with Daniella Atkinson about the new intercepts and exploration plans moving forward. For the full interview with Perry Little and to learn about Green River Gold, 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 marketing@themarketherald.ca themarketherald.ca SOURCE:?The Market Herald View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/718566/The-Power-Play-by-The-Market-Herald-Releases-New-Interviews-with-Psyence-Group-Vertex-Resource-and-Green-River-Gold-Discussing-Their-Latest-News The rise in demand for natural ingredients is propelling the release agent industry forward. Changes in eating patterns and increased industrial food production are also expected to drive the Release Agent Market. JERSEY CITY, N.J., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Verified Market Research recently published a report, "Release Agents Market" By Ingredient (Emulsifiers, Vegetable Oils, Wax & Wax Esters, and Antioxidants), By Application (Bakery, Confectionery, Processed Meat, and Convenience Food), By Form (Liquid and Solid), and By Geography. According to the extensive research done by Verified Market Research experts, the Release Agents Market size was valued at USD 901.58 Million in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 41228.38 Million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 3.95 % from 2020 to 2027. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample/?rid=10179 Browse in-depth TOC on "Release Agents Market" 202 - Pages 126 - Tables 37 - Figures Global Release Agents Market Overview A release agent, also known as a mould release agent, is a liquid chemical used to make it easier to extricate moulded or cast pieces from moulds. Release agents are an essential component of many manufacturing processes. Release agents are applied with a spray gun or paintbrush, wax compounds applied with a cloth, or aerosol versions that are convenient. Plastics contain release agents, which prevent the moulded object from adhering to the mould surface. Release agents have a moist surface and a sticky tendency. Rolls and slices of bread, high sugar baked foods, dry baked goods, perforated sheets, and baking sheets are all discharged using release agents. Release agents are expected to drive the release agents market during the projection period due to strong physical endurance, release agents are easily accessible by spraying, increased usage of natural or organic agents that have a favourable impact on release agents, and demand for bakery items. Furthermore, the rise in demand for natural components is propelling the release agent market forward. The demand for natural ingredients is increasing, with manufacturers offering a variety of goods using these substances, which can provide an added edge in driving consumption among health-conscious customers. Because exceptional release agents, such as lecithin and vegetable oils, are of natural origin, they are likely to see more industry use, which will fuel market expansion. Changes in eating patterns and rising industrial food production are two more factors expected to boost the release agent market. Key Players The major players in the market are Par-Way Tryson, AAK AB, Associated British Foods Plc, Avatar Corporation, Archer Daniels Midland Company, DowDuPont, IFC Solutions, Masterol Foods and Mallet & Company. Verified Market Research has segmented the Global Release Agents Market On the basis of Ingredient, Form, Application, and Geography. Release Agents Market, by Ingredient Emulsifiers Vegetable Oils Wax & Wax Esters Antioxidants Release Agents Market, by Form Liquid Solid Release Agents Market, by Application Bakery Confectionery Processed Meat Convenience Food Release Agents Market, by Geography North America U.S Canada Mexico Europe Germany France U.K Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan India Rest of Asia Pacific ROW Middle East & Africa & Latin America Browse Related Reports: Mold Release Agents Market By Types (Water Based, Solvent Based), By Application (Die-Casting, PU Molding, Plastic Molding, Concrete, Composite Molding, Rubber Molding), By Geography, And Forecast Aluminum Casting Market By Process (Die Casting, Sand Casting, Permanent Mold Casting), By End-Use Sector (Transportation Sector, Building And Construction Sector, Industrial Sector), By Geography, And Forecast Injection Molding Machine Market By Machine Type (Hydraulic Injection Molding Machine, All Electric Injection Molding Machine), By Product Type (Plastic, Metal), By Clamping Force (0-200 Ton-Force, 201-500 Ton-Force), By End-User (Automotive, Consumer Goods), By Geography, And Forecast External Mold Release Agents Market By Type (Water-Based, Solvent-Based), By Application (Die Casting, Rubber, Concrete, Plastics, Food Processing, Paper), By Geography, And Forecast 5 Leading Molded Pulp Packaging Companies maintaining goodness inside Visualize Release Agents Market using Verified Market Intelligence: Verified Market Intelligence is our BI Enabled Platform for narrative storytelling in this market. VMI offers in-depth forecasted trends and accurate Insights on over 20,000+ emerging & niche markets, helping you make critical revenue-impacting decisions for a brilliant future. VMI provides a holistic overview and global competitive landscape with respect to Region, Country, Segment, and Key players of your market. Present your Market Report & findings with an inbuilt presentation feature saving over 70% of your time and resources for Investor, Sales & Marketing, R&D, and Product Development pitches. VMI enables data delivery In Excel and Interactive PDF formats with over 15+ Key Market Indicators for your market. About Us Verified Market Research is a leading Global Research and Consulting firm servicing over 5000+ customers. Verified Market Research provides advanced analytical research solutions while offering information enriched research studies. We offer insight into strategic and growth analyses, Data necessary to achieve corporate goals and critical revenue decisions. Our 250 Analysts and SME's offer a high level of expertise in data collection and governance use industrial techniques to collect and analyze data on more than 15,000 high impact and niche markets. Our analysts are trained to combine modern data collection techniques, superior research methodology, expertise and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research. We study 14+ categories from Semiconductor & Electronics, Chemicals, Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Energy & Power, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Automotive & Transportation, Information & Communication Technology, Software & Services, Information Security, Mining, Minerals & Metals, Building & construction, Agriculture industry and Medical Devices from over 100 countries. Contact Us Mr. Edwyne Fernandes Verified Market Research US: +1 (650)-781-4080 UK: +44 (753)-715-0008 APAC: +61 (488)-85-9400 US Toll Free: +1 (800)-782-1768 Email: sales@verifiedmarketresearch.com Web: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/ Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1315349/Verified_Market_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/release-agents-market-is-expected-to-generate-a-revenue-of-usd-41228-38-million-by-2027--globally-at-3-95-cagr-verified-market-research-301639368.html PENROSE, CO / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Estes Industries, the world's premier model rocket manufacturer, is very pleased to announce that Heidi Muckenthaler has joined Estes as Vice President and General Manager. Heidi will be responsible for leading the company's day-to-day management and successfully executing the organization's five-year strategic plan. "I commit to maintaining Estes Rockets' strong safety record for both employees and our customers," says Heidi about her new opportunity at Estes. "It is an honor to work and collaborate with such a talented group. The Estes Industries campus is such an innovative environment, and it is my goal to work closely with the team to create products that ignite the imaginations of the current and future generations of rocketeers and to perpetuate the company's vision to be the most trusted source for model rocketry." Heidi brings 27 years of operational experience in various industries. During that time, she played a large role in growing companies such as Select Distribution, Epic Distribution, Hayes Instruments, and Cruiser accessories. Heidi brings a wealth of knowledge that will help Estes continue moving forward in its future endeavors. Estes Industries would like to thank outgoing VP and GM Bill Stine for his service to Estes and to the hobby of model rocketry and wish him and his family all the best as he transitions into retirement. About Estes Industries Estes Industries was founded in 1958 by Vern and Gleda Estes and found a home soon after in Penrose, Colorado (the model rocket capital of the world). Through more than six decades of hard work and innovation, Estes has grown to be the leading manufacturer of model rocket engines, kits, and accessories. As of April 2018, Estes Industries is once again a family-run business, committed to enabling safe, successful flights for customers everywhere.To learn more about Estes Industries, LLC please visit www.estesrockets.com. For More Information Please Contact Michelle Passey, Director of Marketing 719.372.6565 Ext. 398 mpassey@estesrockets.com SOURCE: Estes Rockets View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/718564/Estes-Industries-Appoints-Heidi-Muckenthaler-as-Vice-President-and-General-Manager Resignation of Board Chairman, Jonathan Gilbert and Shares for Debt Transactions Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - Lobe Sciences Ltd. (CSE: LOBE) (OTCQB: LOBEF) ("Lobe" or the "Company"), a Canadian Biopharmaceutical company committed to discovering and developing psychedelic derived medicines for neurologic and brain disease today announced that it has expanded its patent portfolio through the filing of international patents in Canada, the United States, Europe and Australia for Methods, Compositions and Devices for Treating Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. "This important step is a significant demonstration of our capabilities, particularly as we expand our footprint globally through conducting controlled clinical trials with our patent-pending compound and expanding our patent portfolio internationally. Specifically with the filing of PCT/US2021/028068 in critical international geographies," said Philip J. Young, Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Resignation of Board Chairman, Jonathan Gilbert and Shares for Debt Transactions On October 3, 2022, Jonathan Gilbert and the Company entered into a mutual separation agreement whereby Mr. Gilbert agreed to resign as Executive Chairman of the board of directors of the Company, effective immediately. As part of the agreement, the Company agreed to issue to Mr. Gilbert an aggregate of 5,300,836 common shares of the Company. The common shares to be issued to Mr. Gilbert will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities legislation, and further, subject to escrow restrictions whereby 1,325,209 shares will be released on each of the following dates: four months and 1 day after October 3, 2022, March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023 and September 30, 2023. "We are thankful to have had Jon as our Founder and Chairman for the last several years and wish him well in his new endeavours. Our team of highly successful biotech executives will drive the implementation of our clinical, development and regulatory strategies outlined previously, and I look forward to providing ongoing updates of our progress," said Mr. Young. "As the founder of Lobe's predecessor company, Eleusian Biosciences Corp., it is very rewarding to see the progress we have made advancing the development of our proprietary compounds. I am confident that the team is on the right track and are the right people to execute our plans. I look forward to being a long-term shareholder as we track the success of the Company moving forward," said Mr. Gilbert. On October 3, 2022, the Company and an arm's length independent consultant (the "Consultant") entered into a separate mutual separation agreement, whereby the Consultant and the Company agreed to terminate a consulting agreement entered into by the parties, effective immediately. As part of the agreement, the Company agreed to issue to the Consultant an aggregate of 4,500,000 common shares of the Company. The common shares to be issued to the Consultant will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities legislation. The shares for debt transaction involving Mr. Gilbert (as described above) will constitute a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and the minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 provided for in subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the fair market value of the subject of, and the consideration paid in the shares for debt transactions, in relation to the interested party, will not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The participation by Mr. Gilbert in the aforesaid shares for debt transaction has been approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such transaction. A material change report will be filed less than 21 days before the closing date of the transactions contemplated by this news release. The Company believes this shorter period is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances as the Company wishes to improve its financial position by reducing its liabilities as soon as possible. About Lobe Sciences Ltd. Lobe Sciences is a life sciences company focused on psychedelic medicines. The Company, through collaborations with industry-leading partners, is engaged in drug research and development using psychedelic compounds and the development of innovative devices and delivery mechanisms to improve mental health and wellness. For further information please contact: Lobe Sciences Ltd. Philip J Young, CEO info@lobesciences.com Tel: (949) 505-5623 NEITHER THE CSE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE. This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to buy any securities. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the future operations of the Company and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release (including, without limitation, statements regarding the future plans and objectives of the Company, research and development using psychedelic compounds, and the development of innovative devices and delivery mechanisms to improve mental health and wellness) 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. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of the forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including changes to the regulatory environment; that the Company's drug research and development activities may be unsuccessful; that drugs and medical devices produced by, or on behalf of, the Company, may not work in the manner intended or at all, and may subject the Company to product liability or other liability claims; that the Company may not be able to attain the Company's corporate goals and objectives; and other risk factors detailed in the Company's continuous disclosure filings from time to time, as available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. As a result, the Company cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release and the Company does not intend to update any of the included forward-looking statements except as expressly required by applicable Canadian securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139335 Cerecin, a Singapore-based clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering innovative neurotherapeutics, closed the first tranche of a Series IIB financing round. The round was led by SK Securities and KNT Investment. Led by CEO Dr Charles Stacey, Cerecin is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing drugs that target the metabolic bases of central nervous system diseases. Its development program leverages experience in neurology drug development and lipid science. The company intends to use the funds to advance the current clinical studies of CER-0001 in migraine prevention and in infantile spasms (a rare form of pediatric epilepsy), finalize plans for a pivotal study of CER-0001 in Alzheimers disease, and build its pipeline of innovative products designed to address metabolic targets in neurological diseases. The financing follows the completion of enrollment of the RELIEF pilot study of CER-0001 as an investigational therapy for migraine prevention. The study enrolled 83 patients in Australia. The company is due to announce topline data later this month with a presentation at a scientific meeting. Cerecin continues to enroll patients in a pilot study in infantile spasms that has recently been expanded to include new clinical trial sites in Australia and Singapore. Cerecin closed a USD $40 million Series II and IIA Round in the 4th quarter of 2021 following a cornerstone investment made by long-term investor, Nestle. The Series IIA was led by SK Securities, Hana Financial Investment, and Partners Investment. The company is supported by two multinational partners, Nestle S.A. (NSRGY), and Wilmar International Limited. FinSMEs 29/09/2022 yWhales Community Metrics yWhales, a Saint Louis, MO-based Web3 startup, raised $5M in funding at an $80m valuation. The backers were not disclosed. The company intends to use the funds to expand the reach of Web3 initiatives by educating tech professionals and facilitating collaboration on new projects within the space. Led by CEO Jay Steinback and President Zemfira Khisaeva, yWhales works for a community of CEOs, business operators, and entrepreneurs who believe that the interconnected, decentralized Web3 model will become the foundation of how the world lives, works, and plays by paving the way for companies to come together to define the Web3. The company combines a deep understanding of emerging Web3 tech with business know-how to advise, build, and grow new and existing businesses that aim to capitalize on Web3 opportunities. FinSMEs 03/10/2022 Hurricane Ian Resources and Information Storm-related messages: Flagler College to open in phases beginning Oct. 2 Saturday, Oct. 1, 1:45 p.m. After assessing the campus grounds and buildings, Flagler College sustained minimal damage and will be opening in phases beginning tomorrow, Sunday, Oct. 2. Sunday, Oct. 2 | All Clear Residence halls will open at 10 a.m. for students to return. All other campus buildings remain closed such as Bistro, POD, the library and the student center. The Dining Hall will open at 11 a.m. for brunch and resume normal dining hours. Monday, Oct. 3 Campus returns to normal operations and classes resume. Academic buildings 7:30 a.m. Library 7:30 a.m. Learning Resource Center 8 a.m. Student Center 7 a.m. Counseling Center 8 a.m. Bistro 7 a.m. POD 10 a.m. Campus offices 8 a.m. For students, staff and faculty still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, professors and supervisors are encouraged to be understanding and flexible. Below are resources and information to assist you during this time. Information for students: Counseling The Counseling Center is available for virtual appointments to help students navigate through this challenging time. Individual appointments can be made by reaching out to the Counseling Center at counseling@flagler.edu. Financial Aid The Financial Aid Office can work with students to update their financial aid information based on any changes related to the storm. To do this reach out to financialaid@flagler.edu to schedule an appointment youre your counselor. Emergency Relief Fund The emergency relief fund can help students who are in need of food, transportation, etc. due to the storm. Students can complete an application by reaching out to Financial Aid at financialaid@flagler.edu. Return to Campus If you are unable to return to campus to resume classes on Monday, reach out to your professors to discuss your individual situation. Fall Break The scheduled fall break will take place Oct. 10-11. Information for Employees: Emergency Relief Fund The emergency relief fund can help employees who are in need of food, transportation, etc. due to the storm. The emergency relief fund can help employees who are in need of food, transportation, etc. due to the storm. Employees can complete an application by reaching out to Shari Stanford at sstanford@flagler.edu. Return to Campus If you are unable to return to campus to resume work on Monday, reach out to your supervisor to discuss your individual situation. ### The College will remain closed but will begin its assessment of the grounds and buildings as early as tomorrow. Thursday, Sept. 29, 4:45 p.m. Over the last 48 hours, the path of Hurricane Ian has taken it across the state of Florida leaving significant devastation along its path, particularly on the southwest coastline. As the College begins its process of assessing the campus to ensure it is safe and ready to resume normal operations, we know that our staff, faculty, students, and their families will be doing the same. As such, the time after a storm can be stressful, so the College has resources in place to support you if needed. Available Resources: Counseling The Counseling Center is available for virtual appointments to help students navigate through this challenging time. Individual appointments can be made by reaching out to the Counseling Center at counseling@flagler.edu https://flaglercollege.zoom.us/j/81092529565. The Center will be holding a group session on Friday, Sept. 30 at 3 p.m. via Zoom. You can access the session here - Financial Aid The Financial Aid Office can work with students to update their financial aid information based on any changes related to the storm. To do this, reach out to financialaid@flagler.edu to schedule an appointment your counselor. Emergency Relief Fund The emergency relief fund can help students and employees who are in need of food, transportation, etc. due to the storm. Students can complete an application by reaching out to Financial Aid at financialaid@flagler.edu Employees can complete an application by reaching out to Shari Stanford at sstanford@flagler.edu or through the below link. Link to employee relief fund application - https://my.flagler.edu/ICS/Portlets/ICS/Handoutportlet/viewhandler.ashx?handout_id=f9febf2d-389c-4946-adef-19f7ff797149 The College will remain closed but will begin its assessment of the grounds and buildings as early as tomorrow. However, only essential personnel are permitted on campus until College and government officials deem conditions safe enough for students and employees to return. Based on what we are seeing from the storm today, there is minimal damage to the campus. We are still anticipating an all-clear for the return to campus on Sunday, Oct. 2 and a return to classes on Monday, Oct. 3. But we will communicate updates as they become available. Flagler College is closed in anticipation of impacts from Hurricane Ian Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2:30 p.m. As Hurricane Ian approaches the area, the Flagler College campus officially closed at noon today and residential students were safely evacuated in accordance with the St. Johns County Emergency Management Office order for a mandatory evacuation. The College will remain closed until campus and government officials deem conditions safe enough for students and employees to return; with the exception of essential personnel. No one is allowed on the campus grounds or buildings. The all clear process includes a check for electrical shortages and standing water hazards due to wind and rain. We anticipate an all clear for the return to campus on Sunday, Oct. 2 and a return to classes on Monday, Oct. 3, but will communicate updates as they become available. What you need to know: Communications about the storm are sent via email and OmniLert text messages. Classes are expected to resume on Monday, Oct. 3. Only essential personnel are allowed on campus during the mandatory evacuation. Students, faculty and staff will not be allowed to return to St. Augustine or the campus until authorized by county Emergency Management Officials, and College officials determine the campus is safe and normal operations have resumed. The College will communicate any possible changes to reopening as soon as information is available. be allowed to return to St. Augustine or the campus until authorized by county Emergency Management Officials, and College officials determine the campus is safe and normal operations have resumed. The College will communicate any possible changes to reopening as soon as information is available. The evacuation mandate includes Evacuation Zones A, which includes downtown St. Augustine and the Flagler College campus, as well as Zones B and F (south of County Road 214). The evacuation order was effective as of 6 a.m. this morning. ### St. Johns County orders evacuation in anticipation of impacts from Hurricane Ian Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2:30 p.m. The Flagler College campus will officially close at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 28 and will remain closed until campus and government officials deem conditions safe enough for students and employees to return. We will communicate updates on the return to campus and start of classes as they become available. Today, the St. Johns County Emergency Management Office issued an order for a mandatory evacuation for Evacuation Zones A, B and F (south of County Road 214), which includes downtown St. Augustine and the Flagler College campus, beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 6 a.m. in preparation for Hurricane Ian. In order to allow students, staff and faculty to properly respond to the evacuation order, academic classes and events are canceled, effective immediately. Residential students who have no alternative housing options will be transported to the general population shelter, Osceola Elementary School, at noon on Wednesday. All students, faculty and staff who live in Evacuation Zones A, B and F should immediately make plans to evacuate and seek shelter from the storm, and county officials are encouraging residents in the evacuation area not to wait until the order takes effect. This evacuation also includes the beaches, Anastasia Island and other property on the waterfront. If you are uncertain of your zone, visit https://www.gis.sjcfl.us/MYEZ/MYEZ.html to check your address. What you need to know Classes have been cancelled through at least Monday, Oct. 3. Only essential personnel will be allowed to stay on campus during the mandatory evacuation. The Office of Residence Life will conduct room checks beginning at noon tomorrow. Any resident remaining on campus at that time will be escorted to the evacuation shelter. Additionally, a separate communication to residents will be sent from Res Life with more instructions and information for residents. Students, faculty and staff will not be allowed to return to St. Augustine or the campus until authorized by county Emergency Management Officials, and College officials determine the campus is safe and normal operations have resumed. The College will communicate any possible changes to reopening as soon as information is available. be allowed to return to St. Augustine or the campus until authorized by county Emergency Management Officials, and College officials determine the campus is safe and normal operations have resumed. The College will communicate any possible changes to reopening as soon as information is available. We understand changes in reopening the campus may complicate efforts to return. Any class absences due to the storm will be counted as excused absences, and these absences will not be counted against your overall class attendance. Monitor the latest updates and advisories on Hurricane Ian at the National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov More information A list of Frequently Asked Questions concerning Flagler College and Hurricane Ian can be found here: www.flagler.edu/hurricanefaqs Hurricane forecasts and other information can be found at the National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov Local information on evacuation routes, shelters and other storm-related topics can be found at St. Johns County Emergency Management: https://www.sjcemergencymanagement.com/ Hurricane evacuation shelters will be opened by Emergency Management officials on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 6 a.m. If possible, evacuees should seek alternatives other than shelters outside of the evacuation area. Flagler students looking for a general population shelter should head to the below shelter option. Pedro Menendez High School, 600 SR-206 West Those who have special needs or need a pet-friendly shelter should head to the below shelters. Pacetti Bay Middle School, 245 Meadowlark Ln. (Special needs) Southwoods Elementary, 4750 State Road 206. (Pet-friendly) For more information on the countys evacuation order and shelters, visit: www.sjcemergencymanagement.org If you are uncertain of your zone, visit https://floridadisaster.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=c788060028cb43809a25744ead39c0d6 to check your address. ### Flagler College wont hold in-person classes starting Wednesday in preparation for Hurricane Ian; offices to go remote Monday, Sept. 26, 3:30 p.m. In anticipation of potential impacts from Hurricane Ian, Flagler College will not hold in-person classes on Wednesday morning through Friday, and offices will move to remote operations during this time. Campus events will also be canceled Wednesday through Friday. Students should expect communication from their faculty as to how the missed class time will be covered or made up, as instructors have broad discretion, and what is done may vary by course. College residence halls and the dining hall will remain open, unless there is an evacuation ordered for St. Augustine. Students, however, are encouraged to return to their homes after classes on Tuesday, unless in an area that is expected to be impacted by the storm. Residential students will need to checkout before leaving, and Resident Advisors will distribute emergency cards to fill out beforehand. Students may leave cars in the Flagler College Parking Garage on Malaga Street, but must park above the first floor. In addition, this weekends Family Weekend has been cancelled and refunds will be issued. Flagler College is continuing to monitor the development of Hurricane Ian, which the National Hurricane Center has warned is likely to develop into a major hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico this week. College officials are coordinating with St. Johns County Emergency Management officials on plans and updates on the storm. Most of central and northern Florida is currently within the 5-day forecast cone, including St. Augustine. The National Weather Service in Jacksonville advises to expect strong winds, coastal flooding, beach erosion and bands of heavy rainfall Wednesday through Friday. There is the potential for Tropical Storm force winds as early as Wednesday, but more likely late Wednesday Night into early Thursday. We will continue to monitor the storm and notify you immediately of any updates or new information. Pay close attention to weather forecasts and advisories from the college over the next couple of days. More information At this time, Flagler is continuing with normal operations, and classes remain on schedule, through Tuesday. Flagler expects to resume classes and normal operations on Monday, Oct. 3, unless otherwise notified. The college has a hurricane plan that includes evacuation procedures in the event that it becomes necessary. Please continue monitoring these Flagler College communication channels for future advisories: Campus e-mail (for students, faculty and staff) www.flagler.edu Family Portal (parents) Additional Resources Tagged As On September 21, 2022 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt on the sidelines of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York. Wang Yi said, pragmatic cooperation between China and Norway has made positive progress in recent years. Last year, bilateral trade increased by nearly 40 percent year on year. Free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations have entered the final stage, and a new version on avoidance of double taxation will soon be signed. In the face of world changes and chaos, stability and confidence are more important than gold. The two sides should respect each other and treat each other as equals, increase understanding and eliminate misunderstanding, maintain the sound momentum of sound and stable development of China-Norway relations, strengthen exchanges at all levels, and promote pragmatic cooperation to achieve more results. China is ready to work with Norway to strengthen communication and coordination in the United Nations and other multilateral institutions and jointly practice true multilateralism. Huitfeldt said that the Norwegian side is pleased that the two sides have overcome the pandemic and continued to advance bilateral relations. Norway and China have great potential for cooperation in such areas as climate change response, economic transformation, renewable energy, and green development. Norway looks forward to speeding up FTA negotiations and continuing to conduct constructive cooperation with China. Wang Yi expressed, China has played an important role in promoting the conclusion of the Paris Agreement. China will continue to show its responsibility as a major country and shoulder its due responsibility for the future of humanity. We stay committed to the path of green, low-carbon, and sustainable development, and have set two ambitious goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality to achieve the largest reduction in carbon emission intensity in the world. We vigorously develop renewable energy, with electricity generated by wind and solar power ranking the first worldwide, as well as the world's largest production and sales of new energy vehicles. Developed countries are expected to honor their commitments and provide financial, technological, and capacity-building support to developing countries. Huitfeldt said that Europe is deeply worried about the current situation in Ukraine and hopes that China will play an important role. Wang Yi expounded on the principled position of the Chinese government and stressed that what President Xi Jinping has proposed that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter must be fully observed, the legitimate security concerns of all countries must be taken seriously, and all efforts that are conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis must be supported is the fundamental guide for China in dealing with the Ukraine issue. The international community should support all efforts conducive to peace, and cope with the challenges brought by the spillover of the crisis to world economic recovery. China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting peace talks in its own way. Intensive factory farming is in the spotlight this weekend as Switzerland prepares to vote on whether to ban it in the country and block imports produced in this way.... Read More PARIS (AP) Thousands of people marched in Paris on Sunday to show their support for Iranian protesters standing up to their leadership over the death of a young woman in police custody. Several female demonstrators chopped off chunks of their hair and tossed them into the air as a gesture of liberation. Women of Iranian heritage, French feminist groups and leading politicians were among those who joined the gathering at Republique Plaza before marching through eastern Paris. Woman, Life, Liberty! the crowd chanted, undeterred by the rainy weather. Some banners read: Freedom for Iranian women, or No to Obligatory Hijab or just the young woman's name: #Mahsa Amini. It was the latest and appeared to be the largest of several protests in France in support of the Iranian demonstrators. Iranians and others have also marched in cities around the world. Thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets over the last two weeks to protest the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who had been detained by Irans morality police in the capital of Tehran for allegedly not adhering to Irans strict Islamic dress code. The protesters have vented their anger over the treatment of women and wider repression in the Islamic Republic, and the demonstrations escalated into calls for the overthrow of the clerical establishment that has ruled Iran since 1979. At the Paris protest, some chanted in Persian and French, Khomenei get out!" referring to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Khomenei. Some women's cheeks bore drawings of a red poppy, the symbol of a martyr in Iran. Iris Farkhondeh, a 40-year-old French scholar who came to France as a refugee when she was a toddler, said she worries about rising Islamist extremism and the risk of terrorist attacks in France by religious extremists. The battle we fight in Iran is the same as that in France," she said. Other protesters described anger at Irans dress codes and encroaching restrictions on women. Some were afraid to give their names out of concerns for repercussions for family members in Iran. Romane Ranjbaran, 28, came to protest with her mother and other family members. Iran is part and parcel of my history. My mom knew free Iran, when women were free," she said. She said she was happy to see so many people at Sunday's gathering. It is an international fight. If we want the situation in Iran to improve, we need international support," she said. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 BRISBANE, Australia, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allkem Limited (ASX|TSX: Allkem, the Company) advises that Mr Peter Coleman has been appointed as a Director of Allkem effective 3 October 2022 and will assume the role of Chair from Martin Rowley who has indicated he will retire from the Board at the close of the 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held on 15 November 2022. In welcoming Peter to the Allkem Board, current Chair Martin Rowley commented, Peter is an outstanding successor to the Allkem Chair, having demonstrated throughout his career the attributes necessary to guide Allkem through its next growth phase. He is ideally suited to lead the Companys successful delivery of its strategy to triple production by 2026 and maintain at least 10% of global market share in the medium term. The Board and I are delighted to welcome Peter. CEO and Managing Director, Martin Perez de Solay said, I would also like to congratulate Peter and welcome him to Allkem and the Board. Peter brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be highly beneficial as we continue to grow Allkem. Peter Coleman said, I am very pleased to be joining a company with such an outstanding portfolio of operating and development assets and that operates with such a strong commitment to sustainability and shared value for all stakeholders. I look forward to working with the Board, management team and all employees to continue the success that Allkem has achieved to date. Biography of Mr Coleman Mr. Coleman is the former Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Woodside Energy Group Limited, Australias largest independent gas producer, having served in that role from 2011 until his retirement in June 2021. Prior to joining Woodside, Mr. Coleman spent 27 years with the ExxonMobil group in a variety of roles, including Vice President Asia Pacific from 2010 to 2011 and Vice President Americas from 2008 to 2010. Mr. Coleman is currently a Non-Executive Director of NYSE listed Schlumberger Limited (since 2021) and is the Chair of Infinite Green Energy, an unlisted Australian green hydrogen renewable energy company (since August 2021). He is also the Chair of H2EX, an unlisted Australian hydrogen exploration start-up (since April 2022) and the Chair of DIRECT Infrastructure, an unlisted Australian-based offshore wind developer (since June 2022). Since 2012 Mr. Coleman has been an adjunct professor of corporate strategy at the University of Western Australia Business School and, has Chaired the Australia Korea Foundation since 2016. He is the recipient of an Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award from Monash University and a Fellowship from the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering. Mr. Coleman has been awarded Honorary Doctoral degrees in Law and Engineering from Monash and Curtin Universities respectively and, was awarded the Heungin Medal for Diplomatic service by the republic of South Korea. Other items Mr. Dylan Roberts has been appointed joint Company Secretary and Mr. Rick Anthon will retire from his role as joint Company Secretary effective from this announcement. Mr. Roberts joins Mr. John Sanders as the joint Company Secretaries for Allkem. This release was authorised by Mr Martin Perez de Solay, CEO and Managing Director of Allkem Limited. Allkem Limited ABN 31 112 589 910 Level 35, 71 Eagle St Brisbane, QLD 4000 Investor Relations & Media Enquiries Andrew Barber M: +61 418 783 701 E: Andrew.Barber@allkem.co Phoebe Lee P: +61 7 3064 3600 E: Phoebe.Lee@allkem.co Connect info@allkem.co +61 7 3064 3600 www.allkem.co IMPORTANT NOTICES This investor ASX/TSX release (Release) has been prepared by Allkem Limited (ACN 112 589 910) (the Company or Allkem). It contains general information about the Company as at the date of this Release. The information in this Release should not be considered to be comprehensive or to comprise all of the material which a shareholder or potential investor in the Company may require in order to determine whether to deal in Shares of Allkem. The information in this Release is of a general nature only and does not purport to be complete. It should be read in conjunction with the Companys periodic and continuous disclosure announcements which are available at allkem.co and with the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) announcements, which are available at www.asx.com.au. This Release does not take into account the financial situation, investment objectives, tax situation or particular needs of any person and nothing contained in this Release constitutes investment, legal, tax, accounting or other advice, nor does it contain all the information which would be required in a disclosure document or prospectus prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act). Readers or recipients of this Release should, before making any decisions in relation to their investment or potential investment in the Company, consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own individual investment objectives and financial situation and seek their own professional investment, legal, taxation and accounting advice appropriate to their particular circumstances. This Release does not constitute or form part of any offer, invitation, solicitation or recommendation to acquire, purchase, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of, or issue, any Shares or any other financial product. Further, this Release does not constitute financial product, investment advice (nor tax, accounting or legal advice) or recommendation, nor shall it or any part of it or the fact of its distribution form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract or investment decision. The distribution of this Release in other jurisdictions outside Australia may also be restricted by law and any restrictions should be observed. Any failure to comply with such restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. Past performance information given in this Release is given for illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon as (and is not) an indication of future performance. Not for release or distribution in the United States This announcement has been prepared for publication in Australia and may not be released to U.S. wire services or distributed in the United States. This announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction, and neither this announcement or anything attached to this announcement shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. Any securities described in this announcement have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States except in transactions registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or exempt from, or not subject to, the registration of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and applicable U.S. state securities laws. Helsinki, Oct. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Boyden, a premier leadership and talent advisory firm with more than 75 offices in over 45 countries, is delighted to welcome prominent business leader Janne Jakola as Partner in Finland effective 1st October 2022. We at Boyden Finland are delighted to bring such vast technology business and digital services leadership experience to the firm, commented Erkki Panula, Chairman of Boyden in Finland, and member of the global technology, healthcare & life sciences and fintech practices. Janne has extensive experience in leading companies and businesses with novel digital services platforms and customer experience, not only in Finland, but in an international context. Jakola will contribute to Boyden both locally and internationally with C-suite and board assignments as a senior level member of the firms global technology and CEO & board services practices; he will also work closely with Boydens sector specialists in infrastructure & transportation, consumer & retail and fintech. I am delighted to join one of the top leadership and talent advisory brands in Finland, comments Janne Jakola, Partner, Boyden Finland. For clients, the need for a new leader means there is evolution in the business. I am energised by engaging with the board and leveraging my interpretive capabilities to deliver exceptional outcomes in this fast-paced, digital era. I have been building teams for twenty-five years in a leadership capacity and am excited to use this experience now as a trusted advisor with Finnish, European and global clients. An impressive leader in digital transformation, Jakola received the prestigious award Digital Director of the Year 2021 conferred by Alma Media through Tivi, the leading publication for ICT professionals in Finland. This recognises his contribution to Matkahuolto, and to the transport industry as a whole. In 2019 Matkahuolto delivered the worlds first MaaS (Mobility-as-a-Service) solution nationwide. These digital capabilities led by Jakola enable transport and logistics businesses to concentrate on their core business, supported by a modern day digital infrastructure that enhances the travel experience of customers throughout Finland. Janne Jakola was CEO of Matkahuolto for nearly four years and a Board Member for 18 months. He was also Chairman of the Board at Trimico, where he led a complete restructuring of the company. Previously he was Business Area Director, Digital Excellence at HiQ Finland, again delivering digital transformation services. Prior to that he was Vice President and CIO at Suomen Lahikauppa Oy, among other key digital roles with Finnish companies. Jakola also lived and worked in Germany for several years as Partnership Manager at Tropolys, Head of Information Management at Elisa Kommunikation GmbH and Project Manager at Helsinki Telekom Deutschland GmbH. He holds an MSc. in Economics, majoring in information systems, from the University of Jyvaskyla and speaks Finnish, English and German. About Boyden Finland Boyden is one of the top leadership and talent advisory firms in Finland, deeply committed to building the nations economy by attracting and retaining the most qualified leaders for clients. The team delivers board and leadership reviews, and C-level searches across all major industries. Boyden Finland works with international and local growth organisations, covering listed, privately and family-owned, private equity- & venture capital-owned and cooperative companies. About Boyden Boyden is a premier leadership and talent advisory firm with more than 75 offices in over 45 countries. Our global reach enables us to serve client needs anywhere they conduct business. We connect great companies with great leaders through executive search, interim management and leadership consulting solutions. Boyden is ranked amongst the top companies on Forbes Americas Best Executive Recruiting Firms for 2021. For further information, visit www.boyden.com. Attachment English German Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Daridorexant demonstrated significant improvement in the subjective measures of Total Sleep Time (sTST) and Latency for Sleep Onset (sLSO) in Japanese patients with insomnia Idorsia Japan expects to file a New Drug Application (NDA) with the Japanese Ministry of Health Labor and Welfare (MHLW) in the first half of 2023 Allschwil, Switzerland, and Tokyo, Japan October 3, 2022 Idorsia Ltd (SIX: IDIA) and Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Japan today announced positive top-line results of the Japanese Phase 3 study investigating 25 and 50 mg doses of Idorsias dual orexin receptor antagonist, daridorexant, in 490 randomized adult and elderly patients (30.1% 65 years) with insomnia disorder. In general, the results are in-line with the safety and efficacy profile of daridorexant as reported in The Lancet Neurology. The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, Phase 3 study to investigate the efficacy and safety of daridorexant. Patients were randomized to receive 50 or 25 mg doses of daridorexant or placebo once daily for 28 days. The study met both primary and secondary efficacy endpoint measures. Daridorexant significantly improved sTST from baseline compared to placebo at 28 days (p<0.001 for 50 mg, p=0.042 for 25 mg). Daridorexant also significantly improved sleep onset as measured by a decrease in sLSO from baseline compared to placebo at 28 days (p<0.001 for 50 mg, p=0.006 for 25 mg). The rate of adverse events was comparable between placebo and daridorexant at both treatment doses. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) during the double-blind study period were reported in 23.5% and 22.7%of the patients treated with 50 and 25 mg daridorexant, respectively (24.4% for placebo). The most frequent TEAEs reported over 3% incidence and higher than placebo were somnolence (6.8% and 3.7% for daridorexant 50 mg and 25 mg groups respectively, versus 2.4% in the placebo group), and pyrexia (0.6% and 3.7% for daridorexant 50 mg and 25 mg groups respectively, versus 1.2% in the placebo group). Makoto Uchiyama, M.D., Ph.D., medical advisor of the Japanese Phase 3 study, Director of Tokyo Adachi Hospital, Visiting Professor of Nihon University, and Visiting Professor of Toho University commented: Insomnia is highly prevalent in Japan and is recognized as an important national health issue. Patients with insomnia have trouble falling or staying asleep, as well as waking up earlier than desired, all of which lead to detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. This Phase 3 trial showed that daridorexant increased total sleep time and shortened sleep latency in patients with insomnia without marked hangover symptoms the next morning which clearly indicates its potency to improve core symptoms of insomnia. Such a promising outcome was likely due to the unique characteristics of the drug, a dual orexin receptor antagonist with an optimal elimination half-life. Satoshi Tanaka, Dr Med Sci. and President of Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Japan, commented: I want to say thank you to the patients who participated in the study, and the investigators and their staff for their dedication to running the study to a high quality. The Idorsia Japan team will now fully analyze the study data and I look forward to sharing the wealth of data generated with daridorexant with Japanese health authorities in the form of a new drug application for marketing authorization in Japan. Together with our partner Mochida, the whole team is eager to rapidly make daridorexant available to Japanese patients with insomnia. About the Japanese Phase 3 study The Japanese Phase 3 study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicenter study to investigate the efficacy and safety of daridorexant in patients with insomnia disorder. The primary objective of the study was to demonstrate the efficacy of 50 mg of daridorexant once daily at bedtime versus placebo for 4 weeks in patients with insomnia disorder. The efficacy of daridorexant was measured by patient reported total sleep time and latency to sleep onset. The primary efficacy endpoint was change from baseline to Week 4 in sTST and change from baseline to Week 4 in sLSO with 50 mg daridorexant versus placebo. The secondary efficacy endpoint was change from baseline to Week 4 in sTST and change from baseline to Week 4 in sLSO with 25 mg daridorexant versus placebo. The study also evaluated the dose effect of 50 or 25 mg of daridorexant versus placebo using other patient reported sleep measures. The study enrolled 490 patients, randomized 1:1:1 to daridorexant 50, 25 mg or placebo. As insomnia often presents later in life, and older adults are more susceptible to experience fragmented sleep, early awakening, and daytime sleepiness, around 30% of the recruited population was at least 65 years of age. A long-term treatment safety study of 12-month duration is expected to deliver results before the end of the year. About the license agreement in Japan In December 2019, Idorsia and Mochida Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. entered into an exclusive license agreement for the supply, co-development and co-marketing of daridorexant for insomnia and related disorders in Japan. Global regulatory status of daridorexant In January 2022, QUVIVIQ (daridorexant) was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and subsequently made commercially available in May 2022. In April 2022, marketing authorization of QUVIVIQ was granted by the European Commission and subsequently by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in Great Britain via the European Commission Decision Reliance Procedure. Launch preparations are underway in the major European markets with the first launch expected before the end of the year. Daridorexant is currently under review with Swissmedic and Health Canada. Notes to the editor About insomnia disorder Insomnia disorder is defined as difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, causing clinically significant distress or impairment in important areas of daytime functioning. This impact on sleep quantity or quality should be present for at least three nights per week, lasts for at least three months, and occurs despite an adequate opportunity to sleep. Insomnia is a condition of overactive wake signaling and studies have shown that areas of the brain associated with wakefulness remain more active during sleep in patients with insomnia. According to Japan Preventive Association of Life-style Related Disease, Insomnia is a common problem with an estimated prevalence in Japan of 20% of the adult population. Insomnia as a disorder is quite different from a brief period of poor sleep, and it can take its toll on both physical and mental health. It is a persistent condition with a negative impact on daytime functioning. Idorsias research has shown that poor quality sleep can affect many aspects of daily life, including the ability to concentrate, mood, and energy levels. The goal of treatments for insomnia is to improve sleep quality and quantity, as well as daytime functioning, while avoiding adverse events and next-morning residual effects. Current recommended treatment of insomnia includes sleep hygiene therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and pharmacotherapy. About the orexin system Wake and sleep signaling is regulated by intricate neural circuitry in the brain. One key component of this process is the orexin system, which helps promote wakefulness. There are two forms of orexin neuropeptides small protein-like molecules used by nerve cells (neurons) to communicate with each other in the brain orexin A and orexin B. Orexin promotes wakefulness through its receptors OX1R and OX2R. Together, these neuropeptides and receptors make up the orexin system. The orexin system stimulates targeted neurons in the wake system leading to the release of several chemicals (serotonin, histamine, acetylcholine, norepinephrine) to promote wakefulness. Under normal circumstances, orexin levels rise throughout the day as wakefulness is promoted and then fall at night. Overactivity of the wake system is an important driver of insomnia. About the global daridorexant Phase 3 registration program (outside of Japan) The global Phase 3 registration program comprised two double-blind three-month studies, together with a long-term double-blind extension study. The program enrolled a total of 1,854 patients with insomnia disorder. As insomnia often presents later in life, and older adults are more susceptible to experience fragmented sleep, early awakening, and daytime sleepiness, around 40% of the recruited population was at least 65 years of age. The placebo-controlled studies investigated the effects of three doses of daridorexant (10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg) on sleep and daytime functioning parameters, objectively in a sleep lab by polysomnography and subjectively with a daily patient diary at home. The impact of insomnia on patients daytime functioning was measured daily using the sleepiness domain score from the Insomnia Daytime Symptoms and Impacts Questionnaire (IDSIQ) a patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument developed and validated according to the FDA Guidance for Industry. More than 800 patients continued treatment in the 40-week extension study, which measured the effect of all three doses vs. placebo, generating data for long-term treatment of insomnia disorder. Phase 3 data has been reported in The Lancet Neurology: The pivotal studies demonstrated that daridorexant 50 mg significantly improved sleep onset, sleep maintenance and self-reported total sleep time at months one and three compared to placebo. The largest effect was observed with the highest dose (50 mg), followed by 25 mg, while the 10 mg dose did not have a significant effect. In all treatment groups the proportions of sleep stages were preserved, in contrast to findings reported with benzodiazepine receptor agonists. A major focus of the trials was to evaluate the impact of daridorexant on daytime functioning in patients with insomnia disorder, as assessed by the IDSIQ. IDSIQ is a patient-reported outcomes instrument specifically developed and validated according to FDA guidelines, to measure daytime functioning in patients with insomnia. The sleepiness domain score of the IDSIQ was evaluated as a key secondary endpoint in both pivotal studies and comparisons to placebo included type I error control for multiplicity. Daridorexant 50 mg demonstrated highly statistically significant improvement in daytime sleepiness at month one and month three. The sleepiness domain score was not significantly improved on 25 mg in either study at either timepoint. The overall incidence of adverse events was comparable between treatment groups. The most frequently reported adverse reactions were headache and somnolence and, overall, the majority of adverse reactions were mild to moderate in intensity. There was no evidence of dose-dependent increases in adverse events across the dosing range. Further, no dependence, rebound insomnia or evidence of abuse or withdrawal symptoms indicative of physical dependence upon treatment discontinuation was observed in clinical studies. About Makoto Uchiyama, M.D., Ph.D. Director, Tokyo Adachi Hospital, Tokyo Visiting Professor, Departments of Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo Visiting Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Toho University School of Medicine, Tokyo Educational Achievements and certificates: M.D., Tohoku University, School of Medicine, Sendai, 1980 Ph.D., Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, 1994 Designated Physicians of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, 1987 Certified Sleep Physician, Japanese Society of Sleep Research, 2002 Certified Psychiatrist, Japanese Society of Neurology and Psychiatry, 2006 Certified Electroencephalographer, Japanese Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 2006 Dr Uchiyama serves as a consultant to Idorsia. Key literature Riemann, D., et al. Sleep. 2017;26(6):675-700. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Wardle-Pinkston S., et al. Sleep Med Rev. 2019;48. Mignot, E., et al. Lancet Neurol. 2022;21:12539. Muehlan, C., et al. Expert Opin. Drug Metab. Toxicol. 2020;16(11):10631078. Muehlan, C., et al. J Psychopharmacol. 2020;34(3):326-335. Buysse, D.J., et al. Drug Discov Today Dis Models. 2011;8(4):129-137. Levenson, J.C., et al. Chest. 2015;147(4):1179-1192. Boof, M.L., et al. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2019;75(2):195-205. Clifford, B.S., et al. Trends Neurosci. 2001;24(12).726-31. Gotter, A.L., et al. BMC Neuroscience. 2013;14(1):14-19. Patel, D., et al. J Clin Sleep Med. 2018;14(06):10171024. Hudgens, S., et al. Patient. 2020. doi:10.1007/s40271-020-00474-z. IDSIQ 2020, University of Pittsburg. All rights reserved. IDSIQ-14 derivative created 2020 by Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd under license and distributed by Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd under license. IDSIQ is further a registered trademark of Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd. About Mochida Mochida Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. has been committed to research and development of innovative pharmaceutical products since its establishment thereby providing distinctive medicines to the medical field. Currently, the core pharmaceutical business focuses resources on the targeted areas of cardiovascular medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry and gastroenterology, while also providing medicine for intractable disease as well as generics including biosimilars, to meet medical needs. For more information on Mochida Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., please see https://www.mochida.co.jp/english About Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Japan Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Japan was established, under the leadership of Dr Satoshi Tanaka, in 2018 to conduct clinical development and prepare the commercialization of Idorsia's innovative and promising compounds for patients in Japan. About Idorsia Idorsia Ltd is reaching out for more We have more ideas, we see more opportunities and we want to help more patients. In order to achieve this, we will develop Idorsia into a leading biopharmaceutical company, with a strong scientific core. Headquartered near Basel, Switzerland a European biotech-hub Idorsia is specialized in the discovery, development and commercialization of small molecules to transform the horizon of therapeutic options. Idorsia has a broad portfolio of innovative drugs in the pipeline, an experienced team of professionals covering all disciplines from bench to bedside, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong balance sheet the ideal constellation to translate R&D efforts into business success. Idorsia was listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ticker symbol: IDIA) in June 2017 and has over 1,200 highly qualified specialists dedicated to realizing our ambitious targets. For further information, please contact Andrew C. Weiss Senior Vice President, Head of Investor Relations & Corporate Communications Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Hegenheimermattweg 91, CH-4123 Allschwil +41 58 844 10 10 investor.relations@idorsia.com media.relations@idorsia.com www.idorsia.com The above information contains certain "forward-looking statements", relating to the company's business, which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "estimates", "believes", "expects", "may", "are expected to", "will", "will continue", "should", "would be", "seeks", "pending" or "anticipates" or similar expressions, or by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. Such statements include descriptions of the company's investment and research and development programs and anticipated expenditures in connection therewith, descriptions of new products expected to be introduced by the company and anticipated customer demand for such products and products in the company's existing portfolio. Such statements reflect the current views of the company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Anhang English French Press Release Paris, October 3, 2022 Danone further progresses on Board renewal with two additions Danone is pleased to announce that two senior leaders have been co-opted to join the Board of Directors as independent members: Gilbert Ghostine , currently Chief Executive Officer of Firmenich; , currently Chief Executive Officer of Firmenich; Lise Kingo, former Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the United Nations Global Compact. Gilbert Ghostine and Lise Kingo will join Danones Board of Directors from October 15th and December 1st respectively. They will replace Guido Barilla, who decided to step down from the Board by anticipation, and Cecile Cabanis, who left the Board on June 30th. Gilles Schnepp, Chairman of the Board said: First, I would like, on behalf of the entire Board, to warmly thank Guido Barilla for his active and constant involvement in the Boards work since 2018. His undisputed business acumen and experience in the Consumer Goods sector, as well as his remarkable integrity and wisdom, have been an undeniable added value to Danone. The addition of Gilbert Ghostine and Lise Kingo marks another milestone in the renewal of Danones Board of Directors. With their experience in senior leadership roles and expertise in Consumer Goods, Health, Nutrition and Sustainability, they will support us in the implementation of the Renew Danone strategy. I would like to thank them for accepting to join the Board and look forward to working with them. APPENDIX Biographies Gilbert Ghostine is the Chief Executive Officer of Firmenich, the Swiss largest private fragrance and taste company in the world. Since joining Firmenich in 2014, Gilbert has championed digital innovation, led the strategic repositioning of Firmenich into Natural, Biotech and Life Science leadership, and driven its growth into a recognized global leader in Environmental, Social and Governance. Under Gilberts leadership, Firmenich has delivered strong and consistent organic growth whilst securing 14 strategic acquisitions, culminating in the planned merger with DSM in the first half of 2023. Gilberts tenure as Firmenich Chief Executive Officer will end in 2023, once the merger with DSM is achieved. Prior to joining Firmenich, Gilbert worked for 21 years with Diageo, holding several senior leadership roles across four continents. In July 2022, he was appointed to the Board of Directors of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Gilbert is a Lebanese-national and holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from Saint Joseph University, Lebanon. He also completed Harvard Business Schools Advanced Management Program. Lise Kingo is an Independent Board member of Sanofi and Covestro, as well as a non-executive Board member of the investment company Aker Horizons. Between 2015 and 2020, she was the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the United Nations Global Compact, the worlds largest corporate sustainability initiative uniting business to create a better world through universal principles and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. From 2002 to 2014 Lise was Executive Vice President, member of the Executive Management team, in Novo Nordisk with global responsibility for Compliance, HR, Communications and Sustainability. She spent more than 25 years in the company in various international business roles and was instrumental in defining the companys sustainable business strategy and strong brand. A native of Denmark, Lise holds a bachelors degree from the University of Aarhus in Denmark, a bachelor's degree in Marketing and Economics from the Copenhagen Business School and a master's degree in Responsibility & Business from the University of Bath in the UK. Furthermore, she is certified as an international Board member by INSEAD. Danone Board renewal Reminder On July 29, 2021, Danone announced the complete renewal of its Board of Directors: all current Directors with the exception of Gilles Schnepp and the two Directors representing Employees will be leaving the Board of Directors by the 2023 Shareholders Meeting. In the meantime, Danone will propose the election of new, externally-recruited Directors, with the objective of constituting a more independent and compact Board of Directors featuring the right blend of FMCG-experience, capabilities and perspectives. Composition of Danones Board of Directors as of December 1 st Gilles Schnepp, Chairman Valerie Chapoulaud-Floquet, Lead Independent Director Antoine de Saint-Affrique, Chief Executive Officer Frederic Boutebba, Director representing employees Gilbert Ghostine Lise Kingo Michel Landel Patrice Louvet Geraldine Picaud Susan Roberts Bettina Theissig, Director representing employees Serpil Timuray About Danone (www.danone.com) Danone is a leading global food and beverage company operating in three health-focused, fast-growing and on-trend categories: Essential Dairy & Plant-Based products, Waters and Specialized Nutrition. With a long-standing mission of bringing health through food to as many people as possible, Danone aims to inspire healthier and more sustainable eating and drinking practices while committing to achieve measurable nutritional, social, societal and environment impact. Danone has defined its Renew strategy to restore growth, competitiveness, and value creation for the long-term. With 100,000 employees, and products sold in over 120 markets, Danone generated 24.2 billion in sales in 2021. Danones portfolio includes leading international brands (Actimel, Activia, Alpro, Aptamil, Danette, Danio, Danonino, evian, Nutricia, Nutrilon, Volvic, among others) as well as strong local and regional brands (including Aqua, Bledina, Bonafont, Cow & Gate, Mizone, Oikos and Silk). Listed on Euronext Paris and present on the OTCQX market via an ADR (American Depositary Receipt) program, Danone is a component stock of leading sustainability indexes including the ones managed by Vigeo Eiris and Sustainalytics, as well as the Ethibel Sustainability Index, the MSCI ESG Indexes, the FTSE4Good Index Series, Bloomberg Gender Equality Index, and the Access to Nutrition Index. By 2025, Danone aims to become one of the first multinational companies to obtain global B Corp certification. Attachment New York, US , Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a Comprehensive Research Report by Market Research Future (MRFR)," Military Antenna Market Information by Type, Frequency, Application, End User, and Region - Forecast till 2027", wherein the market size is estimated to reach USD 3.9 Billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 5.9% during 2020-2027. Military Antenna Market Scope: A military antenna is a radio frequency field to alternating current (or AC) transducer. Antennas serve numerous crucial functions in military missions, including communication, electronic warfare, and the operation of the unmanned system, which relies on a strong signal. In order to send and receive signals, antennas are utilized. Airborne, ground, and sea-based defensive platforms alike all make use of military antennas. Communication, surveillance, navigation, telemetry, and electronic warfare are just some of the many uses for these antennas. The defense sector is always developing new technologies, and modern air defense systems are essential for the military. Today's air defense systems rely on active phased array antennas to provide a clear picture of the region under observation for armed forces all over the world. Get Free Sample PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6882 Report Scope: Report Attribute Details 2030 Market Size USD 3.9 Billion CAGR 5.9 % (2020-2027) Base Year 2019 Forecast Period 2020-2027 Historical Data 2018 Forecast Units Value (USD Million ) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Type, Frequency, Application, End User, & By Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW) Key Market Drivers The development of smart antennas, which integrate multiple antennas, is accelerating the market growth Competitive Dynamics: Because the defense industries are the backbone of the country and the first line of defense against attacks and aggression against civilians, the leading companies in these fields are always innovating new features for the military antenna. The key players invest in developing the features of the antennas to serve their best service for the defence sectors. The list of prominent players of the Military Antenna Market are: Harris Corporation (U.S.) Cobham plc (U.K.) Comrod Communications AS (Norway) Terma A/S (Denmark) MTI Wireless Edge (Israel) Eylex Pty Ltd. (Australia) Cojot Oy (Finland) Raytheon Company (U.S.) Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.) Rohde & Schwarz (Germany) Barker and Williamson (U.S.) RAMI (U.S.) Market USP: Market Drivers Military antenna sales are increasing as global security becomes more of a priority. When it comes to maintaining order during military missions and operations, nothing is more important than having access to a reliable antenna service for transmitting signals. Demand in the Military Antenna Market has increased as the number of terrorist attacks and other acts of violence has increased. Browse In-depth Market Research Report (124 Pages) on Military Antenna Market: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/military-antenna-market-6882 Governments and ministries around the world are increasingly worried about international disputes and the growth in violent activities. The increase in terrorist strikes around the world is a major worry for governments and security agencies. The government is concerned about the safety of the military because the military protects the nation. As a result, the defense establishment and government agencies made it a top priority to ensure the safety of the armed forces. Increased demand for military antennas is mostly attributable to this factor. Connectivity amongst militants on an active mission is bolstered by the military antenna, a specialized piece of equipment. The military branches can communicate and share data through this system. Good Frequency antennas are the reason the military is usually successful in their operations. When communicating, they can quickly share any news or events that may affect the other party. Phased array antennas are commonly utilized in military radars and jammer systems. The projection of the military antenna market is speeding up thanks to these vital variables. Market Limitations The Military Antenna Market has difficulties from the high cost necessary for the construction of military antennas. While the Military Antenna Market faces some obstacles at the moment, the increasing demand for these products in countries all over the world should help it to flourish in the next years, despite the fact that these obstacles are not without their difficulties. The intricate nature of antennas means that their research and development is expensive, which is another reason holding back the military antenna market. COVID-19 Analysis: The epidemic has had a devastating economic impact on the Military Antenna Market Outlook. There was a significant obstacle for the market to overcome when the government ordered a global lockdown. Because to the stringent lockdown regulations, the manufacturing facility and the production process were shut down. It took longer to receive raw materials, and delivery of the finished product was also slowed. The major businesses have had a tough time in this environment, but they are working hard to recover and revive the market. As a result of these factors, the Military Antenna Market will be able to predict the predicted CAGR throughout the projected period. Buy Now @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=6882 Market Segmentation: By Type In terms of military antennas, the dipole antenna category recorded the highest market share. Meanwhile, the array market was predicted to expand at the fastest rate, because to the increased popularity of array antennas for use in military planes and ships because of their many useful features. By Frequency The high-frequency group held the lion's share of the market. It is expected, however, that the ultra-high frequency sector would grow at the fastest rate over the forecast horizon. By Application The communication industry accounts for the biggest proportion of the Market Share. The communication subsector of the Military Antenna Market is growing due to the need for military officials to stay in touch with one another during active military missions. By End User The End-user segment drives the division of the Military Antenna Market into three submarkets: airborne, marine, and ground. In the coming years, each of these markets will expand at a rapid clip. Share your Queries @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/6882 Regional Analysis In terms of a regional breakdown of stock ownership, research shows find that North America ranks first. As long as there are significant manufacturers of high-profile military antennas, this industry will see consistent expansion. Due to the rising pace of investment in defense, the Asia-Pacific area is now widely recognized as the fastest-growing regional market. Everywhere else is prepared to demonstrate a rapid expansion rate during the evaluation time frame. Discover more research reports on Aerospace & Defense Industry , by Market Research Future: Airline Ancillary Services Market : Information Service by Type (Baggage Fees, Onboard Retail & A la Carte, Airline Retail and FFP Miles Sale, and Others), by Carrier Type (Full-Service Carrier and Low-Cost Carrier), and by Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America) - Global Forecast till 2030 Space Electronics Market Research Report: Information by Platform (Satellites; Launch Vehicles), Component (Optoelectronics, Integrated Circuits), Subsystem (Structural, Telemetry), Product (Hardened, Tolerant),Region Global Forecast till 2030 Aircraft Tire Retreading Market Research Report: Information by Process (Pre-Cure and Mold-Cure), Aircraft Type (Commercial and Military), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World) Global Forecast till 2030 About Market Research Future: Market Research Future (MRFR) is a global market research company that takes pride in its services, offering a complete and accurate analysis with regard to diverse markets and consumers worldwide. Market Research Future has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions. Achiko reports an EBITDA loss of USD $1.9 million, compared to an EBITDA loss of USD $4.6 million for the six months ending June 30, 2021. Focal points of the first half year were completion of a major new sales contract in Indonesia, obtaining a CE Mark for AptameX and streamlining the organization ahead of launching and scaling production for sales to Indonesia and other countries. AptameX, Achikos proprietary low-cost, saliva-based Covid-19 diagnostic, has shown competitive product performance to other Covid-19 testing solutions with calibration testing confirming its ability to deliver a >97% sensitive and >97% specific rapid test at a wider range of viral loads than most other rapid tests. After the balance sheet date, raised CHF 1.25 million in financing with sophisticated investors. ZURICH, Switzerland, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Achiko AG (SIX: ACHI; OTCQB: ACHKF; ISIN CH0522213468) (Achiko, the Company) is pleased to announce its financial results for the period of six months to June 30, 2022, and its progress since then which can be found at https://www.achiko.com/financials. In the first half of 2022, Achiko AG has confirmed that calibration testing of its affordable non-invasive Covid-19 saliva-based rapid test technology, AptameX, indicated the systems ability to deliver a >97% sensitive and >97% specific rapid test at a wider range of viral loads than most other rapid tests. The ability to offer healthcare professionals a practical alternative to PCR tests and less accurate antigen based rapid tests has been a major driver for Achikos research and clinical development teams to produce the worlds first scale application using DNA aptamers in a commercial diagnostic setting, said Mr. Steven Goh, CEO of Achiko. The use of differentiated chemistry to develop a range of non-invasive, highly accurate, and cost-effective rapid tests with Achikos AptameX technology, positions the Company at the leading edge of diagnostic development moving forward. Despite another challenging period for the Company, it has made significant progress with its initial commercial application of its AptameX technology and expects to be generating significant revenue from AptameX in Indonesia in the final quarter of 2022. Commercialization in Indonesia and Beyond A key focus of operations during the reporting period was to progress the Companys efforts to successfully launch a scalable test product in Indonesia. As part of this, the Company completed its pre-sales validation process in Indonesia with first generation test kits and identified a range of improvements that are being incorporated into its second-generation product. Key materials are now being produced in Taiwan and scale plastics and assembly being undertaken in Indonesia. In April, the Company signed a major marketing and sales agreement with Pengurus Wilayah Nahdlatul Ulama DKI Jakarta (PWNU), the Jakarta District of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), the largest Islamic organization in the world, located primarily in Indonesia. The agreement provides for the supply and delivery of aptamer-based diagnostics, first to its Jakarta branch of over 4 million members, and on success, to the larger membership of over 90 million registered members. At the same time, the Company signed an updated agreement with PT Indofarma TbK (Indofarma) to use its sister digital passporting service Teman SehatTM (Health Buddy) as a telehealth platform for its diagnostic services. Indofarma is one of Indonesias oldest pharmaceutical companies (part owned by the Government). It supplies over 13,000 pharmacies, 4,000 hospitals, and 9,000 health facilities. It also conducts testing in over one hundred airports and is a national manufacturer of medical devices and the National Contract Research Organization. In May, the Company successfully registered AptameX under the European Union Medical Device Research and In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation and obtained a CE Mark that grants it access to 27 countries in the European Union for its Covid-19 AptameX test and system. Financial Results Achiko concluded the first half of 2022 with an operating loss of USD $2.4 million in comparison to a loss of USD $4.6 million in the first half of 2021. The Company reduced its expense base in Switzerland and focused its development efforts through one primary research and development team. The ability to manage costs with a reduced footprint has been important during a challenging period for the Company. Delays with completing the full year accounts and subsequent audit took up a considerable amount of management time and attention and contributed to the Companys delay to raise sufficient finance in time to launch and scale production in Indonesia as planned before the end of the period. Post balance date, the Company has completed CHF 1.25 million in financing by a number of sophisticated investors. Funds are being applied to launching and scaling commercialization efforts in Indonesia and beyond and bringing the Company towards good standing. Steven Goh commented: We are grateful to our shareholders and our partners for their help and support and look forward to a brighter finish to 2022 and beyond. AptameX: Product Development, Sales, and Market Outlook Achikos core objective is to bring access to better, more affordable, and accurate diagnostics, Goh added. With its AptameX technology, the Company is well placed to take advantage of major healthcare trends including delivering increasingly accurate diagnosis at Point of Care by non-invasive means and using technology to deliver rapid results in real time. AptameX offers public health assurance through early detection by regularly using a telehealth platform for diagnostics equipped with the latest technological diagnostic tests that are comfortable, accurate and affordable. Despite delays in production to meet forecast demand, the outlook for AptameX in Indonesia remains encouraging and the Company expects to be producing and delivering over one million tests per month in the final quarter of this calendar year. Samples are also being produced for use in other Asian countries, Europe, and the Middle East. Corporate Initiatives During the Reporting Period, the Company welcomed Mr. Derek Brandt as a Member of its Advisory Board and after balance date farewelled Ms. Carol Aebi. The Company is moving to strengthen its corporate leadership in Finance and other important functions with a series of key executive appointments. Further details shall be released in advance of and as part of the upcoming AGM that will now be held in late October / early November at a date to be announced. ABOUT ACHIKO AG Achiko AG (SIX: ACHI.SW; OTCQB: ACHKF; www.achiko.com) is developing disruptive diagnostic solutions that put people first. The Companys lead product, AptameX, is a rapid, reliable Covid-19 test with a companion app, Teman Sehat, offering a user-friendly digital health passport. AptameX and Teman Sehat were launched in Indonesia in mid-2021 and AptameX received the CE Mark in the European Union in May 2022. The AptameX DNA aptamer tests can be rapidly chemically synthesized, are cost-effective, easily scalable and have broad potential across multiple disease areas. Achiko aims to deliver fast, accurate and affordable diagnostic testing for a range of diseases in the rapidly evolving healthcare diagnostics field. Headquartered in Zurich, Achiko has offices in Jakarta, and staff around the world. Media contacts: ACHIKO AG Investor Relations E: ir@achiko.com Switzerland & Global Marcus Balogh Farner Consulting Ltd E: achiko@farner.ch T: +41 44 266 67 67 Disclaimer This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Achiko AG and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance, or achievements of Achiko AG to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Achiko AG is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. HERNDON, Va., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SMX, a leader in Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C5ISR), next-generation cloud, and advanced engineering and information technology (IT) solutions, announced today that it has been awarded a prime contract to continue its support of U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) ISR mission operations and intelligence analysis. With an estimated value of $2.3 Billion (inclusive of option periods), the task order, titled AFRICOM Reconnaissance Intelligence Exploitation Services (ARIES), was competed and awarded on GSAs ASTRO Data Operations Pool contract (see https://aas.gsa.gov/astro/). Over 30 companies were eligible to bid on the ARIES task order. Dedicated to equipping decision makers with accurate, relevant and timely intelligence information to achieve continued decision superiority across the vast and complex AFRICOM area of responsibility, this new award has a seven-year period of performance and will allow SMX and its teaming partners to extend their support through 2029 if all option periods are exercised. ARIES, like its predecessor task order, is a complex, multi-tenant task order providing cutting-edge full lifecycle intelligence solutions through cloud-enabled data insights and decision analytics. ARIES objective is to improve the United States ability to observe, orient, decide and act faster and more effectively on the information provided through an innovative system of systems intelligence collection and dissemination eco-system. We are honored and excited to have been selected to continue our support of and partnership with USAFRICOM and GSA FEDSIM. We look forward to building upon our world-class C5ISR solutions in support of the critical missions USAFRICOM executes. We are grateful to our employees and teaming partner subcontractors who work alongside our clients wherever and whenever the mission demands, said Peter LaMontagne, Chief Executive Officer. Dana Dewey, President of the C5ISR business unit, commented, SMX and our industry partners will continue to work seamlessly to identify and deliver emerging technologies and innovative approaches that will accelerate mission execution on this critical National Security requirement. We are thrilled to deliver collection modernization and non-traditional ISR solutions that will leverage multi-modal all source data insights, curated to mission need, both remotely and with edge compute technologies. About SMX SMX is a leader in next-generation cloud, C5ISR, and advanced engineering and IT solutions operating in close proximity to clients across the U.S. and around the globe. SMX delivers scalable and secure solutions combined with the mission expertise needed to accelerate outcomes for the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, Public Sector, Fortune 1000 and other public and private sector clients. For more information on our services, please visit https://www.smxtech.com/ This release does not include any controlled or proprietary information. For inquiries about this press release, please contact us at communications@smxtech.com. CHICAGO, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lou Malnatis the cherished Chicago pizza brand known for its buttery-crust deep-dish pizza has teamed up with fellow Windy-City giant, Portillos the famed fast-casual restaurant known for its menu of Chicago-style favorites to create the most iconically Chicago, yet universally delicious pizza ever to hit your home oven: the Lou Malnatis x Portillos Italian Beef Deep Dish Pizza. Whether you are a fan of Lous, Portillos or just have an appetite for greatness, this one-of-a-kind mash-up from two of Chicagos most beloved brands is a culinary masterpiece that will have you shouting, Now, dat is one delicious deep dish. Now available for shipping nationwide only through Tastes of Chicago, the new Italian Beef Deep Dish Pizza features Lou Malnatis flaky, buttery pizza crust, vine ripened plum tomatoes and Wisconsin cheese, topped with Portillos slow-roasted, thin-sliced Italian Beef. Available with either Portillos homemade sweet peppers or its hot giardiniera, each nine-inch deep dish pizza is made from scratch by Lou Malnatis, then flash frozen to preserve its hot-out-of-the-oven freshness before its shipped directly to your doorstep, ready to bake and enjoy whenever you want it. With more than 100 years of combined culinary history between the two Windy City staples, it simply doesnt get more Chicago or more delicious than this. For more than 50 years, Lou Malnatis has been serving up the very best deep dish pizzas Chicago has to offer, handmade from scratch using the finest and freshest ingredients. The only way we knew to top ourselves was to top our pizzas with the famous flavors of Portillos, said Marc Malnati, owner of Lou Malnati's. Lou Malnatis and Portillos are taking two Chicago signatures to the next level with this inspired collaboration. As two of the most iconic Chicago brands, were proud for Portillos to partner with Lous to bring this craveable Italian Beef Deep Dish pizza to life, said Michael Osanloo, Portillos President & CEO. It combines flavorful homemade signatures from both brands, resulting in pure Chicago deliciousness. When we tasted the Italian Beef Deep Dish for the first time, we knew we had created something special. We cant wait for our fans and fans of all-things Chicago across the country to taste it for themselves. The Lou Malnatis x Portillos Italian Beef Deep Dish Pizza with sweet peppers or hot giardiniera is available exclusively for online ordering and shipping nationwide via Tastes of Chicago. Pizzas are available to ship in packs of two, four or six, or in combination with other Portillos offerings. For more information on this limited time offering or to place an order, please visit TastesOfChicago.com. ABOUT TASTES OF CHICAGO Established in 1997 by Lou Malnatis, the most legendary family name in Chicago deep dish pizza, Tastes of Chicago curates Chicagos best food offerings from restaurateurs and brands and delivers them nationwide through its website. Spanning famous food categories such as Deep Dish Pizza, Hot Dogs, Italian Beef, Seafood & Pasta, Steaks, BBQ, Desserts, Gourmet Popcorn and more, Tastes of Chicago delivers hometown heroes like Lou Malnatis, Portillos, Eli's Cheesecake and Garrett Popcorn Shops, as well as rising local favorites like Brown Sugar Bakery and Wow Bao. With curated packages and subscriptions to suit any palate and budget, Tastes of Chicago brings the Windy Citys rich history, proud culture and iconic eats directly to your doorstep. The perfect gift for your favorite foodie, Chicago lover, client or yourself, Tastes of Chicago allows everyone to conveniently create a special moment at home that only the best Chicago food can offer. For more information, visit https://www.tastesofchicago.com/. ABOUT LOU MALNATIS Considered the oldest family name in Chicago pizza, Lou Malnatis Pizzeria is a family-owned company famous for deep dish pizza and staying true to the original Chicago-style pizza recipe. The company stresses consistency in quality, service, and food, offered in a unique environment by a staff that is committed to one another, the customer, and the community. Lou Malnatis is passionate about pizza, people and proud to support the local communities they serve one deep dish at a time. There are more than 75 locations in the Chicagoland area, Arizona, Indiana and Wisconsin. A member of the Malnati family has been running the business since it started in 1971. The Malnatis signature deep dish is made from a secret family recipe that has been handed down through four generations. The Passion Runs Deep. For the latest dish, visit https://www.loumalnatis.com/. ABOUT PORTILLOS In 1963, Dick Portillo invested $1,100 into a small trailer to open the first Portillos hot dog stand in Villa Park, IL, which he called The Dog House. Years later, Portillos has grown to include more than 70 restaurants across 9 states. Portillos is best known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, char-grilled burgers, fresh salads and famous chocolate cake. Portillos ships food to all 50 states via Portillos.com. Portillos Home Kitchen is the companys fast-growing catering business. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2791c74d-84aa-425f-a1c8-a45f2d84f586 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3b22a157-27a4-4df5-907d-7c4f05f55098 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fa599c81-743a-48b6-b4d7-367e8428f7f7 Lou Malnatis and Portillos portillospr@icrinc.com New York, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Industrial Laser System Global Market Report 2022" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06323465/?utm_source=GNW The global industrial laser system market is expected to grow from $18.49 billion in 2021 to $20.71 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.0%. The industrial laser system market is expected to grow to $29.24 billion in 2026 at a CAGR of 9%. The industrial laser system market consists of sales of industrial laser systems by entities (organizations, sole traders, and partnerships) that are used to cut metals and fabrics, mark tracking codes for industrial traceability, weld metals, clean metal surfaces, change the surface roughness, and measure part dimensions. An industrial laser system refers to a device that stimulates atoms or molecules to emit light at particular wavelengths and amplifies that light, producing a very narrow beam of radiation. The main types of lasers in industrial laser systems are fiber, solid-state, CO2, and other types.Fiber lasers use an optical fiber cable with a doped fiber made of silica glass as a gain medium to guide light. The different types include macro processing, micro processing, and use various power ranges such as less than 1 kW and more than 1.1 kW. The applications included are cutting, welding, marking, drilling, and others, and are employed in several sectors such as semiconductors and electronics, automotive, aerospace and defense, medical, and other end-use industries. North America was the largest region in the industrial laser system market in 2021.Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period. The regions covered in the industrial laser system market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East and Africa. The industrial laser system market research report is one of a series of new reports that provides industrial laser system market statistics, including global laser system industry market size, regional shares, competitors with an industrial laser system market share, detailed industrial laser system market segments, market trends and opportunities, and any further data you may need to thrive in the industrial laser system industry. This industrial laser system market research report delivers a complete perspective of everything you need, with an in-depth analysis of the current and future scenario of the industry. An increase in the trend of automation in industries is expected to contribute to the growth of the industrial laser system market going forward.Automation refers to the use of various technology applications to minimize human input in processes. Automation has increased the necessity for high-precision industrial laser systems for various applications.Automated laser systems combine vision and motion technologies to execute accurate and high-quality work. The rising trend of automation in industries for improved productivity, high efficiency, and accuracy is resulting in the adoption of industrial laser systems.For instance, according to the Association for Advancing Automation, in Q2 2021, robot orders increased by 67% from the same period in 2020, showing increased demand for automation. Therefore, an increase in the trend of automation in industries will drive the growth of the industrial laser system market. Technological advancements have emerged as a key trend gaining popularity in the industrial laser system market.Major companies operating in the industrial laser systems sector are focused on developing new technological solutions to strengthen their position. For instance, in July 2021, Furukawa Electric, a Japan-based electric and electronics equipment company, launched an industrial laser based on fiber technology. The laser has high beam quality and possesses high reliability, time stability, and high effect. In June 2022, II-VI Incorporated, a US-based semiconductor manufacturing company, acquired Coherent Inc. for an undisclosed amount. Through this acquisition, II-VI Incorporated aims to become a global leader in compound semiconductors, photonic solutions, and laser systems. Coherent Inc. is a US-based laser equipment manufacturer. The countries covered in the industrial laser system market report are Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, UK, USA. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06323465/?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. __________________________ OTTAWA, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canada Plastics Pact (CPP) is pleased to welcome six new Partners in Q3 of 2022 who are uniting under the CPPs shared action plan to build a circular economy for plastics packaging in Canada. New CPP Partners includes reusable packaging borrowing services, a manufacturer in stretch film products, a leading independent research organization, a non-governmental organization working to eliminate plastic pollution in Canada, and an organization working to lead Canadas direct mail industry towards sustainable practices. The new Signatory Partners of the CPP are: Malpack Ltd , Friendlier , ShareWares . The new Implementation Partners of the CPP are: Mind Your Plastic , The Conference Board of Canada , The Sustainable Mail Group . The rapid growth of the Canada Plastics Pact within the past two years is a testament to the need for collaboration to enact systems change, said Paul Shorthouse, Interim Managing Director, CPP. Were pleased to be joined by companies and organizations that bring new perspectives and ideas in our efforts to ensure plastics packaging is safely reused, recycled, or composted across the entire value chain. Its through the collaboration of diverse actors in the plastics industry that CPP is addressing one of the most pressing environmental issues of today. With more than 90 Partners, the CPP continues to work towards ambitious targets for circular plastics packaging in Canada, set out in its Roadmap to 2025 . Since the CPP launched in early 2021, various initiatives have been underway to address the opportunities and challenges to enacting systems change, such as the release of CPPs 2020 Baseline Report and the formation of eight working groups that bring together the essential actors to tackle the key issues around plastic packaging waste and pollution. Most notably, the CPP is leading the consultation and implementation of the Golden Design Rules for Plastics Packaging in the Canadian marketplace, which was developed by the Consumer Goods Forum's (CGF) Plastic Waste Coalition of Action . Resources: Media inquiries: To arrange an interview, please contact: Moojan Haidari, Communications Manager mhaidari@plasticspact.ca About the Canada Plastics Pact ROSEAU, Dominica, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Charles Savarin, addressed the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly, New York recently and discussed a number significant issues facing the world, such as climate change, poverty, inequality, the growing challenges of chronic non-communicable diseases and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He reiterated Dominicas appeal to the international community to prioritise the disbursement of climate financing agreed upon at COP27, which aims to support the adaptation and resiliency efforts of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) seeking to minimise the loss and damage caused by extreme climate events. President Savarin noted that the world is facing a number of climate challenges with both immediate and long-term implications. He added that there has been only marginal progress towards finding solutions and resolving the significant challenges of climate change. "Today, planet earth is under severe threat and stress and may become uninhabitable if we further delay decisive corrective action. We need to talk less and start taking concrete action to reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere. "In addition to tropical storms and hurricanes, we are facing the prospect of drought, warming seas, and rising sea levels, all of which will affect lives and livelihoods." He stated that Dominica would continue to champion the call for collective global action in the fight against climate change and the need to build resilience to natural disasters triggered and exacerbated by climate change. "We must lay a path for development that is sustainable and people-focused. Small states like ours have stood at this very podium and at many other such podiums across the world seeking to convince the developed world to change destructive practices that threaten our planet and our very lives and livelihoods," said the President. Savarin noted that the impact of climate change on SIDS was well known and that funding should, as a priority, be made available to these states. He noted that despite best efforts, not enough corrective action was being taken, and not enough support was being given to SIDS to adapt and build resilience. "What we need from our developed partners is the recognition and acceptance of responsibility that translates to a commitment to provide the funding required to enable our small states to become resilient. This must be readily accessible and available to all of us on grant and concessional terms, with the only criteria for access being our vulnerability to extreme weather events." Savarin recalled the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Erika in 2015 and Hurricane Maria in 2017. The two storms caused over 90 and 220 percent loss of GDP, respectively. Lives were lost, people were displaced and livelihoods were shattered. "These experiences triggered our goal of becoming the first climate-resilient nation in the world, and we have realigned our focus to concentrate on adaptation efforts and build[ing] back better in every sector of the economy." The President also pointed out that SIDS, like Dominica, are disproportionately affected by climate change. He said that extreme weather phenomena would escalate as global temperatures rise, noting that rising sea levels would lead to some SIDS disappearing, and others being subject to coastal erosion, with infrastructure, villages, towns and cities being destroyed. Additionally, President Savarin discussed the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and that all member states have embraced the SDGs as an ideal to be pursued universally and achieved by 2030. However, he also noted that SIDS would face greater challenges than many larger nations in achieving these goals. Savarin also discussed other challenges including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the unfolding war in Ukraine. About the Covid-19 pandemic, President Charles Savarin noted that like most other UN member states, Dominica and the Caribbean were ill-prepared for the health emergency. He added that the pandemic had exposed the limitations of health systems in countries across the world, whether large or small, developed or underdeveloped. "The reality is that not all people have equal access to vaccines and life-saving medicines even when faced with a pandemic declared by the World Health Organisation," he said. He also condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He noted that as a result of the war, economies around the world had fallen victim to skyrocketing prices for oil and petroleum products, and that these prices had negatively impacted the cost of electricity and all aspects of transportation. He emphasised the effect that the war has had on the worlds food supply, [a]s Russia and Ukraine are among the leading suppliers of grain, this conflict has created a shortage in the world's supply of grain, with implications for hunger in countries which rely on imports of grain from these two countries." "The invasion of one country by another must always be condemned, and Dominica condemns the attack on Ukraine without reservation, he said. [W]hat happens in one part of the world affects us all, and so it is with the war in Ukraine." The Commonwealth of Dominica has stood with other countries in calling for an immediate end to the conflict raging in Ukraine. It has welcomed the deal brokered between Ukraine and Russia with the support of the United Nations Secretary-General and assistance from Turkey. The deal has allowed for significant quantities of grain to be shipped from Ukrainian ports to various destinations, thereby alleviating the emerging global food crisis. Just a few months prior in July 2022, Dominica presented its first Voluntary National Review (VNR) to the UN in keeping with its international obligations and the spirit of "Global Governance". In the Review, Dominica reported on the tremendous progress it had made towards achieving its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that its national agenda was guided by an aspiration to become the world's first climate-resilient nation. The Review also indicated that the country's primary industries are showing signs of positive recovery since the destructive weather events of 2015 and 2017. With tourism and agriculture remaining the main income-generating sectors, Dominicas GDP is projected to reach pre-pandemic levels by 2023. With infrastructure projects and improved air access supporting its recovery, the country anticipates an average five percent GDP growth per annum from 2022 to 2026. Discussing Dominica's resilience agenda during his address at the UN General Assembly, President Savarin noted that new and modern climate-resistant homes were being constructed for low and middle-income families across the island. He said that modern and smart health and wellness centres were also being built across urban and rural communities. These initiatives would help the country to withstand the impact of extreme weather and to remain operational during natural emergencies and pandemics. "Ensuring our citizens enjoy long and healthy lives will always be a priority, Savarin said. [T]herefore, what we grow and consume has to be a critical component of our resilience agenda. Global trends indicate that food security issues are not unique to Dominica. He reminded delegates at the assembly that the second Sustainable Development Goal towards ending world hunger calls on governments to pursue smart and sustainable food production to help alleviate the perils of hunger." He added that Dominica was working to strengthen its agricultural sector to reduce its reliance on food imports. The country was also renewing its emphasis on growing and providing affordable and high-quality products for consistent export. Concluding his UN Assembly address, President Savarin reiterated his gratitude to the countrys international partners as well as those governments that had provided support during its darkest days in the aftermath of Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria. Dominica PR pr@csglobalpartners.com T: +44 (0)20 7318 4343 HELENA, Mont., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 1 Dollar Montana, the top-rated Montana Registered Agent for Montana LLC registration, is proud to announce news appearing in MarketWatch. In the report, 1 Dollar Montana was rated the top registered agent service. 1 Dollar Montana is a family business that has been around for decades. Their service focuses on helping vehicles register in the state of Montana, tax-free. They help register boats, cars, trucks, trailers, airplanes, and more. For individuals thinking of buying a new vehicle, it is worthwhile to go on their website to see their registration process and check how much can be saved by registering in Montana. Their Montana Vehicle Registration service is straightforward and doesn't require Montana residency. 1 Dollar Montana is one of the only Montana LLC Registered Agents that answers their phone on the weekends. The other provider to do this is 5 Star Registration. Every registration client will have Montana license plates and Montana tags, and they are completely legal in any state, and this law has been held up in the State Supreme Court. Montana also offers permanent plates, unlike many other states, and easy online renewals. Their team simply sets up a client's Montana LLC for their vehicle and the client doesn't have to live in Montana to register a vehicle. 1 Dollar Montana knows the ins and outs of registering any vehicle. Many other registered agents can only handle one type of vehicle, while 1 Dollar Montana has a wide grasp on vehicle types. If a car owner is looking to create an LLC in Montana, 1 Dollar Montana can help: https://1dollarmontana.com/. About 1 Dollar Montana: 1 Dollar Montana is one of the oldest Montana Registration services helping thousands of vehicle owners register in the state of Montana every year. If you are looking for the fastest and most cost-effective way to register, 1 Dollar Montana is your solution. Contact Information: Rahul Mehta rahulmehta1783@gmail.com Related Images Image 1: 1 Dollar Montana This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. Attachment BOISE, Idaho, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PCS Edventures!, Inc., (PCSV) a leading provider of K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education programs and drone products, today announced that the Company has won a competitive bid and has been awarded a contract from the United States Air Force for their Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC). The contract allows the Air Force JROTC to purchase up to 750 units of our Discover Drones Classroom Packages each year for five years. They are not required to purchase more than one unit in any contract year after the first year. Their first purchase order is for 344 units, worth approximately $2.6 million. Michael Bledsoe, President, commented, I am very pleased on behalf of our employees and shareholders to win this contract. The Air Forces first order represents the largest single order our Company has ever received. We are prepared to fulfill the contract and will begin shipping units within the next week. Ultimate fulfillment of the contracts first order is anticipated to be late January 2023. Todd Hackett, CEO, stated, This contract award with the Air Force is definitely a game-changer for our Company. If exercised fully, the contract has potential to exceed a total of $30 million over a 5-year period. I am proud of our employees who worked so diligently to win this contract and furthermore put our Company on track for major growth. We will continue going after larger implementations of our programs, and I look forward to providing our next contract update. For more information about PCS Edventures!, Inc., visit our website. Company financial information and reports can be found at https://www.otcmarkets.com/. About PCS Edventures!, Inc. PCS Edventures!, Inc. (OTCPK: PCSV) is a Boise, Idaho company that designs and delivers technology-rich products and services for the K-12 market that develop 21st-century skills. PCS programs emphasize experiential learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). https://edventures.com/. _ _ 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 are not a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time the statements are made and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this press release. This press release should be considered in light of the disclosures contained in the filings of PCS and its forward-looking statements in such filings that are contained in the OTC Markets Group, LLC website at https://www.otcmarkets.com/. Contact. Investor Contact: Michael Bledsoe 1.800.429.3110, mikeb@edventures.com Investor Relations Web Site: https://investors.edventures.com/ NORTH VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Contact Printing and Mailing Ltd., the long-time independent printing business located at 339 2nd Street West in North Vancouver, has been sold and converted to Minuteman Press, North Vancouver. Owners Bob Gibson and Dave Brown have sold the 41-year-old business to Doug Frederickson, who has been a Minuteman Press franchise owner for 28 years. Minuteman Press, North Vancouver is Dougs third location; he also owns Minuteman Press in Surrey and Campbell Heights, B.C. On the purchase of the business, Doug Frederickson says, Bob and Dave have been in business for over 41 years with good reason. During that time, they have built a tremendous, loyal following of customers by treating them right and providing outstanding quality and service. Ive been working with them closely on the acquisition and now the transition, and I am excited to build on their legacy. Doug adds, I am also excited to introduce new products such as apparel, promotional items, and signage, to go along with all of the printing and mailing services. History of the Business Contact Printing was first started by Bob Gibson and his father Jim in 1981. Bob shares, The impetus for the business was that Jim had a direct mail business and was getting his printing done around town. I worked at a print shop at the time and my boss kept missing deadlines and just wasnt getting the job done. With my dad as the driving force, we decided to do it on our own and open up our own business. Like many print shops at the time, Contact Printing was an instant / quick printer. They also specialized in direct mail thanks to Jims experience, and then built up their colour-printing business as well. We were able to stand out simply by getting the job done right, and fast, notes Bob. When Jim retired in 1988, Bob enlisted the help of his high school friend Dave Brown. Dave agreed to join the business even though he did not have any experience with the printing industry. Dave says, Bob and I were friends, and he convinced me to take the leap and join him. My background is actually in kinesiology, so it was definitely an adjustment. Here we are 35 years later, and we are still friends and business partners. While Bob worked on the production side, Dave worked on the sales side. It always helped that we brought different skills to the business and let each other do what we needed, says Dave. Evolution of Printing As the printing industry evolved, so did Contact Printing. Bob shares, Over the years, we were always quick to embrace new technology. About 12-15 years ago, we switched over to digital printing along with hybrid technology, while keeping up with the latest trends for colour-printing and direct mail. We always stayed up to date and today we do what weve always done, which is provide high quality products and fast turnarounds for our clients. Today, after 41 years as a large, successful print operation, Contact Printing remains in great shape as the business transitions to Minuteman Press, North Vancouver. Dave shares, As a Canada Post partner, mailing is one of our key specialties and growth areas. Real estate printing is also big for us, along with our fulfilment capabilities that enable us to print and ship on demand. We are known as a one-stop shop, with printing, mailing, and shipping all being done right and on time. Exit Strategy & Selling the Business With retirement on the horizon, it was time for Bob and Dave to think about their exit strategy and look at selling the business. Bob says, About a year and a half ago, we engaged a business broker to come evaluate the business. The biggest issue we ran into is that the broker didnt really know the printing industry. He wasnt thinking about who could buy and then actually run the business, so we did not find a buyer and the broker deal fell through. Minuteman Press Helps Facilitate the Sale At the same time Bob and Dave were leaving the broker behind, they received a letter from Neil MacLeod, Minuteman Press International Regional Vice President for Western Canada. This was actually the second time they had heard from Neil. Dave explains, Two and a half years ago, before the broker, we actually met with Neil for coffee after receiving his first letter. He suggested that Minuteman Press would be interested in helping us sell the business. At the time, we werent ready to sell. He continues, When the broker deal fell through and we received Neils second letter, it reminded me that we had met previously and so I gave him another call. This was in December of 2021. Here we are nine months later in August of 2022, and the sale of our business has now been completed. Because Minuteman Press International offers training and ongoing local support, they can attract a wide pool of buyers. Neil MacLeod shares, Once Dave and Bob decided to work with us, I immediately went to work to help them find qualified buyers and facilitate the sale of Contact Printing. Neil continues, As it turns out, Doug Frederickson, who is already an experienced multi-unit Minuteman Press owner, expressed interest to me in expanding with another location in North Vancouver. I arranged for Doug to meet with Bob and Dave, and everything came together. Not only did Doug buy the business, he also purchased the building, further securing Bob and Daves exit strategy. New owner Doug Frederickson adds, I wouldnt have known that Bob and Dave were selling their business if it wasnt for Neil MacLeod. After speaking with Neil, I met up with Bob and Dave and everything just clicked. I saw that the way they ran their business for 41 years was very similar to how Ive run mine for 28 years. They were very cordial and it has been great learning about Contact Printings history and working with them on a smooth transition to Minuteman Press, North Vancouver. Reflections & Advice for Others When reviewing and reflecting on the sale, Bob says, The whole Minuteman Press process was much easier that I realized it was going to be. There was a free evaluation and no commissions. While there was work to be done to get to the point of the sale, I felt we were working towards the same goal of selling the business to the right buyer and the right price. Dave adds, Generally, this was a pretty seamless process. We are really happy with the way things went, and Minuteman Press made it easier to sell our business. We know it will be in great hands with Doug Frederickson. Whats next for Bob and Dave? Retirement, they both say. Bob reflects, We love our community and everyone here is very close. We are really pulling for Doug and we will make the transition as seamless as possible. Minuteman Press, North Vancouver (formerly Contact Printing) is located at 339 2nd St. West, North Vancouver, BC V7M 1E2. For more information, call or visit their website: https://minuteman.com/ca/locations/bc/north-vancouver/ For #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities or to see Minuteman Press franchise reviews, visit https://minutemanpress.ca . Learn more about how to sell your printing business at https://sellmyprintingbusiness.com. Media Contact: Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti, 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c152049-1a33-4f14-9c34-e846d3c3cd2c LONDON, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to The Business Research Companys research report on the womens health devices market, an increase in government programs aimed at raising awareness about womens health is contributing to the growth of the womens health devices market going forward. Government programs aimed at raising awareness about womens health refer to initiatives and awareness events organized by the government to make the population aware of some societal boost the public healthcare system's efficiency and effectiveness. These government programs help in creating awareness, which in turn increases the need for women's health devices for easy diagnosis. For instance, in March 2022, according to the Department of Health, Victoria, the Victorian government released its first-ever womens sexual and reproductive health strategy and priority action plan for womens sexual and reproductive health. The plan is supported by a $6.6 million investment for action and education to reduce stigma and improve knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and other such issues. Therefore, an increase in government programs aimed at raising awareness about womens health is expected to boost demand for womens health devices during the forecast period. Request for a sample of the global womens health devices market report The global women's health devices market size is expected to grow from $30.81 billion in 2021 to $33.70 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4%. The global women's health devices market size is expected to grow to $46.55 billion in 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4%. Technological advancement is a key trend gaining popularity in the womens health devices market. Many companies operating in the womens health devices sector are looking for new technologies to strengthen their position in the womens health devices market. For instance, in May 2022, iSono Health, a US-based medical equipment manufacturing company, launched ATUSA, which is the worlds first portable and automated 3D breast ultrasound scanner. This combines a unique 3D ultrasound scanner with artificial intelligence to perform full breast scans and accurately locate breast tumours.t automatically captures the entire breast volume, allowing for unremarkable breast ultrasound imaging at the point of care without the need for a trained ultrasound driver. This launch represents another step forward for the company and the female population. Major players in the womens health devices market are Abbott Laboratories, Koninklijke Philips N.V., CooperSurgical, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Caldera Medical, GE Healthcare, Carestream Health, Hologic, Medline Industries, Candence Inc., Boston Scientific Corporation, Reckitt Benckiser, BD. Com, Coloplast A/S, and MedGyn Products, Inc. The global womens health devices market overview is segmented by product into surgical, diagnostics, contraceptives, labor and delivery, critical care; by type into devices, consumables; by application into cancer, osteoporosis, infectious disease, uterine fibroids, post-menopausal syndrome, pregnancy, female sterilization, others; by end-user into hospitals, obstetrics and gynaecology clinics, diagnostic laboratories, ambulatory surgical centres, others. North America was the largest region in the womens health devices market in 2021. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the global health devices market during the forecast period. The regions covered in the global womens health devices market research report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Africa. Womens Health Devices Global Market Report 2022 Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2022-2026 is one of a series of new reports from The Business Research Company that provide womens health devices market overviews, womens health devices market analyze and forecast market size and growth for the whole market, womens health devices market segments and geographies, womens health devices market trends, womens health devices market drivers, womens health devices market restraints, womens health devices market leading competitors revenues, profiles and market shares in over 1,000 industry reports, covering over 2,500 market segments and 60 geographies. The report also gives in-depth analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on the market. The reports draw on 150,000 datasets, extensive secondary research, and exclusive insights from interviews with industry leaders. A highly experienced and expert team of analysts and modelers provides market analysis and forecasts. The reports identify top countries and segments for opportunities and strategies based on market trends and leading competitors approaches. Not the market you are looking for? Check out some similar market intelligence reports: Femtech Global Market Report 2022 By Type (Devices, Software, Services, Others), By End-Use (Direct-To-Consumer, Hospitals, Fertility Clinics, Surgical Centers, Diagnostic Centers), By Application (Reproductive Health, Pregnancy And Nursing Care, Pelvic And Uterine Healthcare, General Healthcare And Wellness, Others) Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2022-2026 Contraceptives Global Market Report 2022 By Product (Oral Contraceptive Pills, Topical Contraceptives, Injectables, Diaphragms, Vaginal Rings, Condoms, Contraceptive Sponges, Subdermal Implants, Intra-Uterine Devices), By Age Group (15-24 Years, 25-34 Years, 35-44 Years, 44 Years), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Independent Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies, Clinics, Others) Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2022-2026 Cervical Cancer Diagnostics Global Market Report 2022 By Diagnostic Test (Pap Smear Test, HPV Test, Colposcopy, Biopsy And Endocervical Curettage, Other Diagnostic Tests), By Age Group (Below 21, Age Between 21 To 29, Age Between 30 To 65, Above 65), By End-User (Hospitals, Specialty Clinics, Cancer And Radiation Therapy Centres, Diagnostic Centres) Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2022-2026 Interested to know more about The Business Research Company? The Business Research Company is a market intelligence firm that excels in company, market, and consumer research. Located globally it has specialist consultants in a wide range of industries including manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, chemicals, and technology. The Worlds Most Comprehensive Database The Business Research Companys flagship product, Global Market Model, is a market intelligence platform covering various macroeconomic indicators and metrics across 60 geographies and 27 industries. The Global Market Model covers multi-layered datasets which help its users assess supply-demand gaps. Washington, D.C., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Blank Rome LLP is pleased to announce that Paul Zeineddin has joined the firm as partner and co-chair of the Intellectual Property Litigation practice group in the Washington, D.C., office. A trial attorney with over 20 years of experience, Paul focuses his practice on patent litigation as well as the interplay between intellectual property and antitrust issues. Paul has handled more than 60 patent infringement disputes before U.S. District Courts and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC). Before joining Blank Rome, Paul was a partner in the Intellectual Property practice at Axinn Veltrop & Harkrider LLP. We are thrilled to welcome Paul to Blank Romes growing IP team, which recently welcomed Hussein Akhavannik as a partner in July, said Grant S. Palmer, Blank Romes Managing Partner and CEO. Our intellectual property attorneys are well positioned to navigate the increasingly complex issues that arise in intellectual property and antitrust law in todays evolving markets, and Pauls successful track record of litigating these matters will greatly benefit our clients in protecting their valuable intellectual property. Paul has extensive experience handling significant patent litigations involving various communications, semiconductor, and consumer electronics technologies as well as their related standard essential patents (SEPs) and their fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) commitments. In addition to his extensive experience litigating before U.S. courts and agencies, Paul has represented clients before the United Nations and global standard-setting organizations on matters related to SEPs and FRAND terms. He has also served as the lead negotiator in global licensing deals that involve SEPs and patent pool formations. Pauls clients are active in the telecommunications, consumer electronic, and software industries. Before beginning his law career, Paul was a senior telecommunications engineer who spent time at British Telecom and MITRE Corporation. He also previously served as senior IP counsel at Samsung Electronics. Pauls engineering background and deep technical knowledge, combined with his acumen as a lead trial lawyer, makes him a perfect fit to help expand our firms national IP Litigation practice and trial capabilities, said Domingo Manuel Llagostera, Partner and Co-Chair of the firms Intellectual Property Litigation practice group. I look forward to collaborating with Paul as we lead the practice together and continue to enhance Blank Romes service offerings and stellar bench of IP litigators. I am impressed by Blank Romes national platform and team of talented IP trial attorneys, notably with regard to their depth of technical knowledge and the diversity of their trial practice, Zeineddin said. The firm is well established in critical jurisdictions for patent litigation, which is particularly important for me as I grow my practice and help expand Blank Romes IP Litigation group. Paul earned his J.D. from The George Washington University Law School and his M.S. and B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Ohio University. He is a member of the American Bar Associations Science & Technology Law Section as well as several international standard-setting organizations. About Blank Rome Blank Rome is an Am Law 100 firm with 14 offices and more than 600 attorneys and principals who provide comprehensive legal and advocacy services to clients operating in the United States and around the world. Our professionals have built a reputation for their leading knowledge and experience across a spectrum of industries and are recognized for their commitment to pro bono work in their communities. Since our inception in 1946, Blank Romes culture has been dedicated to providing top-level service to all of our clients and has been rooted in the strength of our diversity and inclusion initiatives. For more information, please visit blankrome.com. ### Attachment Central, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Central, Hong Kong - Maple Tree Counselling, based in Hong Kong, is sharing the answers to a host of frequently asked questions from their community. The centre offers professional counselling and psychotherapy in order to help their clients lead full lives and recover from mental struggles and conditions. Learn more here: https://www.mapletreecounselling.com/ One of the biggest areas of confusion, according to the centre, lies in the difference between psychotherapy and counselling. Both counselling and psychotherapy are talk therapies, and the terms are frequently used interchangeably. They are used to help patients gain a better understanding of themselves and enable change. However, shorter-term therapy sessions that place more of an emphasis on well-being and pressing problems are referred to as counselling. In order to obtain a profound understanding and undergo significant transformation, psychotherapy may be utilised as a longer-term strategy as it requires a deeper examination of the past. Notably, the centres counsellors are all trained in various evidence-based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Psychodynamic Therapy, to name a few. Maple Tree Counselling also clarifies the difference between counsellors, psychologists and psychiatrists. They are all professionals with training in mental health therapy who might be classified as psychotherapists. Counsellors are educated experts who offer assistance to individuals looking to alter their lives, end strife or handle interpersonal problems. Counsellors concentrate on all facets of a person's welfare rather than on diagnosing or treating mental disease. A psychologist is typically qualified to conduct psychological testing and provide psychotherapy for mental problems. Clients with complicated mental health issues, such as personality disorders and significant depressive illnesses, may be treated by a psychologist. The centre also clarifies that a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating a full range of mental disorders, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Psychiatrists are the only mental health professionals who may prescribe medication, and they may also provide psychotherapy. Separately, the centre says that while many wish to learn more about the early signs of anxiety and depression, it is crucial to keep in mind that everyone will experience depression or anxiety in a different way, and it may be necessary for an individual to reflect personally on their thoughts, feelings and behaviour in order to recognise the symptoms. Long-lasting sadness or worry are only one sign of depression or anxiety; other symptoms include apathy, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, indecision, mood swings, changes in food or drink intake and a desire to be alone. Physical signs of depression and anxiety might also include heart palpitations, persistent weariness, gastrointestinal discomfort and sleeplessness. More information on this is available on the centres website. One important question answered by the centre concerns the following: what a client may expect from their first session. The initial session often serves as an evaluation and consultation, during which the mental health professional will learn a little bit about the patient's past and provide a brief explanation of their practice and counselling methods. The majority of the session will be spent by the two parties getting to know one another while they proceed at the client's pace. The client is welcome (and encouraged) to offer any thoughts they may have as well as ask questions. Issues from the past, relationships, current difficulties and a deeper exploration of the client's thoughts, feelings and behaviours may all be explored. A plan for the patient's future sessions may have been established by the professional at the conclusion of the session. For more information visit: https://schooner.io/bfxao Should anyone wonder if they should go for therapy, Maple Tree Counselling says: Anyone can benefit from therapy whether they are currently in crisis or embarking on a journey of self-exploration or change. You may want to better understand your past in order to move forward, change old patterns, heal from past trauma, improve relationships or move bravely into uncharted territory. These are some of the issues we regularly explore with clients. If any of these resonate with you or if you have any questions about whether our practice is right for you, please get in touch, and we will be happy to engage with you directly. Founded in 2021, Maple Tree Counselling is a boutique counselling and therapy practice in Hong Kong. They are a group of professional counsellors, a diverse, multicultural team with rich life experience and international professional qualifications and accreditation. They are guided by the key professional values of ongoing professional development, expert individual and group supervision, and absolute confidentiality. The Maple Tree Counselling therapists deliver the sessions in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. Maple Tree Counselling works out of discreet and tranquil rooms on the 27th floor of World Wide House, 19 Des Voeux Road, Central. Those interested in learning more about Maple Tree Counselling and the services they provide may visit the centres website to get started at https://www.mapletreecounselling.com/ ### For more information about Maple Tree Counselling, contact the company here: Maple Tree Counselling Anjali Nihalchand +852 6375 6098 info@mapletreecounselling.com 27th floor, World Wide House, 19 Des Voeux Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong Chain-Wide Fundraising Effort to Benefit American Red Cross Hurricane Ian Disaster Relief The Wawa Foundation to Match First $250,000 in Customer Donations WAWA, Pa., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wawa, Inc., and The Wawa Foundation Inc., today announced the launch of a chain-wide, in-store crisis campaign designed to provide disaster relief assistance to those communities most affected by Hurricane Ian. The campaign is being held in partnership with the American Red Cross (the Red Cross) and allows customers to contribute to Hurricane Ian disaster relief by adding $1, $3, or $5 to their Wawa purchase at checkout. The Wawa Foundation will be matching the first $250,000 in customer contributions to the campaign. The campaign will run from Tuesday, October 4, to Sunday, October 16, in all of Wawas more than 970 stores throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Florida and Washington, DC. All donations made through The Wawa Foundations campaign will be donated to the Red Cross and will be designated specifically for Hurricane Ian disaster relief efforts. These funds will be used to help the Red Cross provide immediate and vital support to those communities suffering from the effects of Hurricane Ian. All of us at Wawa are committed to helping our Florida friends and neighbors during this time of need. Wawa has been in Florida for 10 years now and, as a member of this community, we are taking a number of steps to help with storm recovery efforts, said Chris Gheysens, Wawas CEO. The Wawa Foundation has always had a strong commitment to providing crisis response and assisting those in need, and weve been partnering with the American Red Cross in these kinds of efforts for decades. We are proud to match customer donations up to $250,000 to show our dedication to, and support for, this critical need, said Jay Culotta, President of The Wawa Foundation. About Wawa, Inc. Wawa, Inc., a privately held company, began in 1803 as an iron foundry in New Jersey. Toward the end of the 19th Century, owner George Wood took an interest in dairy farming and the family began a small processing plant in Wawa, PA in 1902. The milk business was a huge success, due to its quality, cleanliness and certified process. As home delivery of milk declined in the early 1960s, Grahame Wood, Georges grandson, opened the first Wawa Food Market in 1964 as an outlet for dairy products. Today, Wawa is your all day, every day stop for freshly prepared foods, beverages, coffee, fuel services and surcharge-free ATMs. Wawa stores are located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Florida and Washington, D.C. The stores offer a large fresh foodservice selection, including Wawa brands such as custom prepared hoagies, freshly-brewed coffee, hot breakfast sandwiches, specialty beverages and an assortment of soups, sides and snacks. Forbes.com Ranks Wawa as #23 of Americas Largest Private Companies in 2021 and #12 on Forbes 100 Halo List in 2022. About The Wawa Foundation Inc. The Wawa Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded by Wawa, Inc. to support the companys charitable giving and philanthropic activities, and ultimately to help build stronger communities. The Wawa Foundation focuses its support on organizations committed to health, hunger and everyday heroes through local, state and national grants and/or in-store fundraising, such as donation boxes and point-of-purchase scan materials. CONTACT: public.relations@wawa.com The Japanese Grand Prix is the next race on the 2022 F1 calendar and it follows just a week after the Singapore GP. The time difference and a 'normal' start time does make it an early affair for European fans. Find out what time and where to turn on for the Japanese GP here. Article continues under ad After a two-year absence, Formula 1 will return to Japan in 2022. In the land of the rising sun, they love F1, so there was great sadness that there could be no big celebration when the national pride (Honda) started winning races. In 2022, Honda will officially no longer be part of F1, but it does not feel that way to many. Unique opportunity for Verstappen Indeed,Max Verstappen is hoping to win his second world title in Japan with Red Bull Racing, which still has an original Honda engine in the back of the car. The name is now Red Bull Powertrains, but the concept is still owned by the Japanese manufacturer. So for Verstappen and Red Bull to win in Japan would be very special. In Japan, the race weekend will again be held in the afternoon hours, not helping European fans as in Singapore. Due to the seven-hour time difference, the first free practice starts at 04:00 UK time on Friday 7 October. Second free practice and qualifying start at 07:00 and the race starts an hour earlier, at 06:00 UK time on Sunday 9 October. Read more International media praise Perez win, but denounce slow FIA action Timetable for the Japanese Grand Prix 2022 [UK times] Friday Article continues under ad First free practice: 04:00-05:00 Second free practice: 07:00-08:30 Saturday Article continues under ad Third free practice: 04:00-05:00 Qualifying: 07:00-08:00 Sunday Article continues under ad Race: 06:00-08:00 Ballard Power Systems announced its strategy local for local whereby it plans to deepen its global manufacturing footprint in Europe, the United States and China to support global market demand growth through 2030. As part of this strategy, Ballard has entered into an investment agreement with the Government of Anting in Shanghais Jiading District to establish its new China headquarters, membrane electrode assembly (MEA) manufacturing facility and R&D center at a site strategically located at the Jiading Hydrogen Port, located in one of Chinas leading automotive industry clusters. Ballard plans to invest approximately $130 million over the next three years, which will enable annual production capacity at the new MEA production facility of approximately 13 million MEAs, which will supply approximately 20,000 engines. Ballard expects to be able to achieve significant capacity expansion of this facility in future phases with much lower capital requirements. The facility will also include space to assemble approximately 600 engines annually to support the production and sale of Ballard engines in the rail, marine, off-road and stationary markets in China, as well as for certain export markets. In 2021, Ballard completed its MEA manufacturing expansion in Canada, which is critical as the MEA is the core technology and limiting factor for Ballards global fuel cell engine production capabilities. With the new MEA capacity coming online in China, Ballard now expects its global MEA capacity to support total demand requirements through the second half of the decade. Current Ballard global manufacturing capacity This investment is expected to reduce MEA manufacturing costs, align with Chinas fuel cell value chain localization policy, and position Ballard more strongly in the hydrogen fuel cell demonstration cluster regions and for the post-subsidy market. The facility is planned to be in operation in 2025 to meet expected market demand in China, including from the Weichai-Ballard Joint Venture (WBJV) for the bus, truck and forklift markets, as well as other opportunities outside the WBJV scope. The annual production capacity of the Weichai-Ballard joint venture facility located in Weifang, Shandong is approximately 40,000 stacks and 20,000 engines. Our global manufacturing vision for 2030 is to have scaled local for local manufacturing of leading fuel cell engines and components in our core regional markets of Europe, North America and China to support future industry growth patterns and volumes across our verticals. In the case of China, we already have volume manufacturing capacity for fuel cell engines, bipolar plates and stack assembly at our WBJV. With our continued high conviction on long-term scaled adoption in China of fuel cell electric vehicles for medium- and heavy-duty motive applications, we are now addressing long-term capacity in that market for our proprietary MEAs. We believe China is a market headed for a significant demand break-out as hydrogen infrastructure scales over the coming years and as our new MEA production facility comes online. Randy MacEwen, Ballard CEO Ballard will also be setting up an R&D and innovation center at the same site. The center will be focused on MEA research to achieve key corporate technical advancements, support cost reduction initiatives, and engage the emerging China local supply chain for fuel cell materials and components. Ballard also has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Weichai Power whereby Weichai Power plans to make an equity investment for 2% of Ballards new MEA manufacturing company. BNSF Railway plans to invest more than $1.5 billion to construct a master-planned rail facility in Southern Californiathe first being developed by a Class 1 railroad. The Barstow International Gateway will be an approximately 4,500-acre new integrated rail facility on the west side of Barstow, consisting of a rail yard, intermodal facility and warehouses for transloading freight from international containers to domestic containers. Conceptual, subject to change. Currently, most international cargo at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach arrives in 40-foot containers that are then trucked from the ports to warehouses in Los Angeles or the Inland Empire. Once the containers arrive at the warehouses, they are unloaded, sorted, and re-loaded onto 53-foot domestic containers that are either transported by truck to a railyard in Los Angeles, where they are transferred onto trains, or are simply trucked across the country. This process creates inefficiencies and unnecessary truck trips within the Los Angeles Basin and Inland Empire that can impact supply chain distribution, the environment, and communities surrounding ports and warehouses. The new facility will allow the direct transfer of containers from ships at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to trains for transport through the Alameda Corridor onto the BNSF mainline up to Barstow. BNSF in California Once the containers reach the Barstow International Gateway, they will be processed at the facility using clean-energy powered cargo-handling equipment, and then staged and built into trains moving east via BNSFs network across the nation. Westbound freight will similarly be processed at the facility to bring trains to the ports and other California terminals more efficiently. BNSF said that the location of the facility near primarily undeveloped land not adjacent to urbanized areas will minimize potential community impacts in Barstow. Oil and gas producers rely on flaring to limit the venting of natural gas from their facilities. New research led by the University of Michigan shows that in the real world, this practice is far less effective than estimated, releasing five times more methane in the US than previously thought. Methanewhich can be a byproduct of oil productionis a powerful greenhouse gas. Burning methane by flaring as it is released converts it to carbon dioxide, another greenhouse gas but one that is less harmful on a pound-by-pound basis. The new data suggests we have overestimated flarings effectiveness and, as a result, underestimated its contribution to methane emissions and climate change. A paper on the work is published in Science. Multiple flares observed in operation in the Bakken Formation in the Williston Basin in North Dakota, 2021. Image credit: Alan Gorchov Negron, University of Michigan and Yulia Chen of Stanford University Industry and regulators operate under the assumption flares are constantly lit and that they burn off 98% of methane when in operation. Data taken via aerial surveys in the three US geographical basins, which are home to more than 80% of US flaring operations, shows both assumptions are incorrect. Flares were found to be unlit approximately 3%-5% of the time and, even when lit, they were found operating at low efficiency. Combined, those factors lead to an average effective flaring efficiency rate of only 91%. Over the course of three years, researchers made 13 flights in planes equipped with air monitoring equipment to assess how much methane is released from flares across oil and gas production basins. Flights were conducted in the Permian and Eagle Ford oil and gas fields in Texas, as well as the Bakken oil and gas field in North Dakota. Planes flew downwind of flaring sites, crisscrossing the direct pathways of the air plumes released by flaring. Tubes and pumps drew air into the onboard instrumentation, where laser scanning at a specific frequency measures the amount of carbon dioxide and methane it carries. Measuring both gasses simultaneously allowed researchers to estimate the destruction removal efficiency of flaring at an individual site. If the flare is operating as it should be, there should be a large carbon dioxide spike and a relatively small methane spike. And depending on the relative enhancement of those two gasses, we can tell how well the flares are performing. This appears to be a source of methane emissions that seems quite addressable. With management practices and our better understanding of whats happening to these flares, we can reduce this source of methane in a tangible way. Genevieve Plant, lead author U-Ms research partners for the study include Stanford Universitys Department of Energy Resources Engineering, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF); Scientific Aviation of Boulder, Colorado; and Utrecht Universitys Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. Recent research led by nonprofit EDF similarly found that roughly 10% of flares are unlit or malfunctioning. Resources Hyundai Motor Company won its first Luminary honor at Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2022 with its Trailer Drone fully autonomous hydrogen mobility concept. (Earlier post.) The Luminary honor is the highest level of recognition accorded at the Red Dot Award: Design Concept, selected from among Red Dots Best of the Best winners to serve as inspiration and role model for designers. Overall, Hyundai won three awards, including Luminary, Best of the Best and Winner honors, at the annual event hosted by Germanys Design Zentrum Nordrhein-Westfalen. In addition to the Luminary award for Trailer Drone, Red Dot also named the SEVEN sport utility electric vehicle (SUEV) concept a Best of the Best and the robotics-based Plug & Drive (PnD) modular platform a Winner. Trailer Drone is a hydrogen-powered container transportation system capable of operating fully autonomously. With the number of intelligently packaged hydrogen tanks tailored to the journey profile, the flexible and efficient Trailer Drone delivers more than 1,000 km of sufficient range from a single charge, comparable to existing container transportation systems. Hyundai designed the concept to enable diverse applications using e-Bogies (earlier post), similar to the wheel subframe that sits under every train car. Trailer Drone is a unique and innovative commercial mobility solution in which a trailer is placed on two e-Bogies, allowing it to rotate in a narrower radius than a general trailer. Unlike conventional tractors that are designed for container transportation only, Trailer Drone offers a multi-purpose platform capable of unlimited business applications. When operated separately from a container trailer, the e-Bogie can be used in various fields, such as cargo transportation, construction, firefighting and rescue. Hosted by Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen in Germany, Red Dot Award is one of the worlds largest design competitions. The award breaks down into three different disciplinesProduct Design, Brand & Communication Design and Design Conceptto better appraise the diversity in the field of design. The Red Dot Award: Design Concept invites designers, design studios, companies and universities to challenge the status quo and present their most exciting design concepts and prototypes to an international panel of design experts. SAIC recently put 80 MAXUS MIFA hydrogen fuel cell vans into operation in Shanghai through Xiangdao Chuxing, SAICs mobility service platform. The vans feature a next-generation air filtering system that can purify 99.9% of PM 2.5 and other particulate matter in the air. The 70Mpa hydrogen storage tank can withstand a temperature of up to 842 C; tank wall thickness is as high as 25mm. MIFA Hydrogen uses a 92 kW fuel cell system and delivers a range of 605 km (376 miles) with fuel consumption of 1.18 kg/100 km. The MIFA Hydrogen van seats seven. The SAIC MAXUS range is currently available in 73 countries and regions globally. The brand has more than 400 sales dealers across Europe; last year the SAIC MAXUS brand achieved sales of almost 183,000 units globally. In the European market, MAXUS has received more than 10,000 electric vehicle orders this year so far, making it one of the most popular electric van brands in Europe. At IAA Transportation 2022, MAXUS showcased five of it electric vehicles: the brands popular eLCVs the eDELIVER 3 and larger eDELIVER 9, the MAXUS MIFA 9 (MPV), the T90 EV (electric pickup) as well as SAICs latest project, the MAXUS Electric Light Truck. Megan Gimmen, the valedictorian of Okkodo High School in 2016 and the University of Guam in 2020, started her journey at Harvard Medical School in August with a full-ride scholarship. It was a big transition that was overwhelming because I was moving to a new city and theres a lot of new people to meet around 160 med students in my class, said the 24-year-old who resided in Dededo most of her life. When I was growing up, I didnt hear about or get to meet a lot of doctors from Micronesia. I think its really cool that more and more of us are getting to that stage or are having interests in the medical field, added Gimmen who double majored in chemistry and biology at the University of Guam. She was also excited to meet two fellow CHamorus on campus: Terrance Camacho and Ryan Benavente. I met Ryan in the first week of class that we started here, and it was really cool to see somebody else from the Pacific Islands who was very passionate about health, equity, the Pacific Islands and serving back to our communities, Gimmen said. Im excited that there are more of us from the Pacific Islands who are thriving here. Micronesian values As Gimmen walks around campus, she brings some Pacific Island values she holds dearly to her heart. I love how people from the island are very communal, Gimmen said. If we interact with other people, we always want to think about, How can I make this person feel taken care of? How can I make this person feel seen and how can they feel like theyre part of our community and supported by us. Even if its sometimes weird to tell somebody you barely know that youre proud of them and you want to support them here on campus, I still go for it because thats what I learned growing up in the island, she added. Gimmen also takes the value of respect very seriously and finds it integral to her work in the medical field. Respect is applicable to medicine as well like in-patient interactions and in interactions with other medical peers, Gimmen said. You definitely want to respect everyone, hear what everybody has to say and know that youre not going to be the smartest person in the room because there is a lot to learn from everyone else. Motivation for pursuing medical school Gimmens passion for the medical field began in high school when members of her family had to fly off island for medical treatment. A lot of adults around me had chronic conditions, high rates of cancer or heart disease and often passed away due to diabetes, so I thought that was totally normal growing up, said the daughter of Teresa Gimmen and Jimmy Gimmen who reside in Tamuning. Jimmy Gimmen is originally from Yap. Megan Gimmen later realized that it is not only the fear of what would happen to her loved ones, but also the financial struggles that come along with it. Your family has to be able to support two households unless your whole family moves, Megan Gimmen said. My family did not have a lot of financial needs, and we did not have a lot of family on island as well to help us. She had an epiphany moment after she stayed in a hospital to take care of a family member. I was very scared, and when the doctor came in, it was comforting to hear somebody who knows what was going on because I didnt even know what the medical condition actually was, Megan Gimmen said. I guess that kind of planted the seed for medical school. So, I thought, Maybe what I can do to help is that I can aid other families who are in very vulnerable situations feel comforted, too, she said. When Megan Gimmen entered college, she started to learn more about Guams health disparity and had the opportunity to intern at the Guam Memorial Hospital for the whole year in 2019. Learning from Guams medical scene She worked in the emergency department and then later shadowed physicians and therapists. She got to work with patients at the long-term facility afterward. Though chaotic, it was cool that I got to learn and see the different roles within a health care team and how they work together, Megan Gimmen said. It was also touching to establish a relationship with patients, which I think is a privilege of an experience to be able to know somebody in that way. I really enjoyed getting to hear their stories and seeing how their lives are impacted through their treatment plan and perhaps their illness, she added. I also loved looking for small ways sometimes just to brighten up their day if they were experiencing a chronic illness, which a lot of the long-term care facility patients are. That was really special, and hopefully, thats something I can always continue to do. Megan Gimmen also worked with the Department of Public Health and Social Services on island where they did a free health screening for an extension of The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey. They would go to different community centers and basically give out free biometric health screenings, and then they would collect that data, Megan Gimmen said. Theyre basically trying to get a good understanding of where Guam is health-wise. I had a great time with all these experiences because it taught me that this is a path that I want to pursue, she added. I also became more educated that we need a lot more resources on Guam and affordable health care. Plans after medical school As of now, Megan Gimmen has a keen interest in neurology, but she plans to be exposed to other specialties before she chooses her career path. After graduating from medical school, she hopes to apply to a masters program before going into residency. I would still have to do residency here in the contiguous U.S, so I would spend some years training here, Megan Gimmen said. One of my dreams is to be able to help establish partnerships with some of the institutions here and some of our health care leaders and institutions on the island. Being here, I just see that there is such a big gap in resources not only in health care but even in education, she added. Pacific Islanders are very underrepresented in the U.S. and supporting pre-medical students and growing our health care infrastructure in Micronesia are some goals that I want to prioritize. Hopefully, I can return one day and serve as a physician myself. Survivors of Guam clergy sexual assault are a step closer to obtaining compensation as a judge on Monday began hearing arguments that would get the Archdiocese of Agana out of bankruptcy and pay claimants $34 million to $101 million. Were almost at the finish line, U.S. District Court of Guam Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood, whos been serving as bankruptcy judge in the archdiocese case, said on the first day of the hearing. The remaining concerns about the plan related to the Boy Scouts of America, among other things, are expected to be addressed, and the judge assured of a reasonable, fair, expeditious decision. If the judge confirms or approves the fifth amended joint reorganization plan this week, payments could start reaching survivors in 90 to 120 days, according to attorney Robert Kugler of Minneapolis-based Stinson LLP, counsel for the creditors committee. Attorney Edwin Caldie, also representing the creditors committee, told the court about the 99.3% support to the joint plan by abuse survivors, referring to the 152 votes to accept it versus only one vote to reject it. There are more than 270 Guam clergy sex abuse claims from those who said they were raped or sexually molested by parish priests and others associated with the Guam Catholic church as minors. The judge earlier admonished attorney Michael Berman for not following the court orders on the voting process for all his 77 clients. Theirs were not counted toward the total votes, the majority of which came from the survivors represented by attorney Delia Lujan Wolffs law firm as well as two other law firms. It is time Caldie, in his opening statement, said the whole process is mainly about two things: justice and healing for the survivors and returning the archdiocese to some kind of normalcy. He said its time to put an end to the ugly, expensive chapter in the Guam churchs history. As Mr. (Leo) Tudela said, No more delays. It is time, it is time, Caldie added. Archdiocese of Agana Vicar General Father Romeo Convocar, who was among the witnesses Monday, testified that the archdiocese wont file for another bankruptcy if the current bankruptcy exit plan is confirmed, and that the joint plan is far and equitable to all claimants. It may be very difficult for us with limited resources, but we need to continue with our ministry, Convocar said, as archdiocese attorney Ford Elsaesser asked him a series of questions. Archbishop Michael Jude Byrnes is currently on medical leave. Josie Villanueva, the archdioceses chief financial officer, also said its about time the archdiocese gets out of bankruptcy. The archdiocese sought bankruptcy protection in January 2019, amid a string of abuse claims. Most of the attorneys representing abuse claimants, the archdiocese and other parties were in the courtroom, as the judge preferred. But online, dozens of other abuse survivors and attorneys also watched the proceedings. Retired U.S. District Court Judge of Oregon Michael Hogan also testified in person as the unknown claims representative. Sources of fund Caldie told the judge that the plan proponents and Continental Insurance Co. reached a settlement agreement in principle, amounting to $1.75 million. This brings to nearly $20 million the contributions to the trust from church insurers. The bulk of the contribution will be coming from AIG Insurance, at $18 million. At the hearing, the archdiocese testified about the $6.6 million in cash contribution from the archdiocese. The joint plan is anticipating up to $55 million to come from the Boy Scouts of America, but this is not guaranteed. Theres also $1 million to $1.5 million worth of properties for survivors burial plots, as well as Catholic school scholarships for their families. More than $18 million worth of real estate will also be signed over to the trust, which would sell the properties and use the proceeds to compensate abuse survivors. Two families whose parents and grandparents donated land to the archdiocese decades ago on Monday continued to ask the court for the parcels to not be sold. The two separate properties, donated by the Pangelinan and Sgambelluri families, are estimated to have a combined value of $600,000. Zita Pangelinan, representing her family, asked that theirs be set aside instead as a place of healing for survivors and others, including the use of indigenous healing. Leo Tudela, whos representing clergy abuse survivors in the creditors committee, directly addressed the Pangelinan and Sgambelluri families. We understand your situation. We know whats going on in the family, CHamoru culture, but this problem, we didnt ask for it. It came to us in a very traumatic trauma, the 79-year-old survivor said. During a break in the hearing, Tudela and the creditors attorneys shared their optimism about this weeks confirmation hearings. I think were feeling really positive, and I think the best reasons to feel positive are, its looking like we may be able to get closure today for so many people who were hurt and who suffered for so long and also to let the church to start to heal from this ugly chapter of its existence and to move on, Caldie said. Tudela echoed the sentiment. I think its gonna be a very positive ending. Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said she plans to ask the Biden administration to help Guam pay for a new hospital, among other needs, after one of the presidents advisers told her the administration will be pumping resources to the island. Leon Guerrero, who returned this week from a Pacific Islands summit in Washington, D.C., said she spoke with Kurt Campbell, who is deputy assistant to the president and the coordinator for Indo-Pacific affairs on the National Security Council. He went out of his way to talk to me and let me know thats what (they) are planning, the governor said Monday, adding she expects there will a follow-up discussion with Campbell. When he said to me, We will be giving more resources to Guam, it wasnt in an environment where we could talk in detail about it, she said. He just said, We are going to be pumping resources to Guam. The governor said she does not know why the administration wants to give more support to Guam, but said the administration recognizes Guam as a key player in the region as well as the good relationship the governor has with Pacific Island nations. Those factors likely played a part in the governor being seated next to Secretary of State Antony Blinken during last weeks U.S. Pacific Island Country Summit, she said. That means a lot, in terms of presence and ranking, she said. The governor said she will continue to press the administration for improved veterans services in Guam, including the creation of a regional veteran services processing center here. I will also talk about the needs for our infrastructure and things that would improve our economic situation, she said. Guam also needs more support for workforce development and health care, the governor said, including more Medicaid funding. Guam also needs more compact-impact funding, the governor said, because of the impact of regional migrants. I will try to convince (Campbell) to help with the funding of our hospital situation, the governor said. A Guam law from last October allows the governor to sign a contract to finance, design and build a new government health care center, which will include a new Guam Memorial Hospital and new facilities for the Department of Public Health and Social Services and the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center. The law authorizes up to $35 million per year in lease payments, for up to 40 years. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which assessed the existing GMH facility in November 2019, recommended that Guam build a replacement hospital at a cost of about $743 million instead of spending $761 million to renovate the current facility. Haiti - FLASH : D-Day, Back to school maintained, but at high risk Monday, October 3rd, back to school day, hhttps://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37497-haiti-flash-date-of-the-start-of-the-2022-2023-school-year-postponed-official.html despite the zones of urban guerrillas, the lack of fuel and the difficulties of circulating on the barricaded roads, the Ministry of National Education takes note of the various appeals emanating from educational institutions and various sectors of the population calling for a safe climate and a better framework to facilitate the movement of schoolchildren, parents and teachers, but maintains the date of the start of the school year. Let's recall that "Barbecue" launched last week a warning to the population "We ask the Haitian people, from Monday [October 3rd, back-to-school day], to avoid going out in the streets without real need" https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37775-haiti-flash-warning-and-implicit-threats-of-barbecue.html At most, the Ministry recognizes that the first week of the 2022-2023 school calendar starting on October 3rd will be difficult for the relaunch of school activities in several places in the country and expects a gradual return to school. He announces that the Government is committed, once again, to creating an appropriate security framework and an adequate system to facilitate the movement of the population in general and schoolchildren in particular. Several schools and high schools have decided to keep their doors closed, such as the Lycee Saint-Louis de Gonzague where its director Brother Simon Alphonse informs parents "[...] After extensive consultation with the Saint-Louis community : parents, teachers, administrative staff and support, the management of the Institution Saint Louis de Gonzague informs you that it will not receive students on October 3rd, 2022 until further notice. Thank you for your collaboration !" Brother Simon ALPHONSE, Director For its part, the Haitian Land Transport Sector (STTH) and other transport unions such as the Association of Owners and Drivers of Haiti (APCH), the Union of Drivers and Owners of Vehicles of the Lower Artibonite (SCPVBA), the National Federation of Transport and Haitian Workers (FENATRATH) inform all owners, drivers, workers, station managers that the conditions are not yet met to send children to school this Monday, October 3rd. Emphasizing "We cannot risk sending our children to the streets in this fragile situation. We are in a difficult situation, the destiny of the Haitian people is in their hands. The right to eat, the right to move around, the right to work is non-negotiable. The transport unions, like the labor unions, will continue to mobilize so that the Government hears the voice of the Haitian people." Moreover, this return to school not only carries risks, but high-level officials warn that schools on the border with the Dominican Republic could be seriously threatened by gangs https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37698-haiti-demonstrations-more-than-twenty-schools-vandalized-looted-and-damaged.html See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37775-haiti-flash-warning-and-implicit-threats-of-barbecue.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37745-haiti-flash-back-to-school-threatened-by-gangs.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37698-haiti-demonstrations-more-than-twenty-schools-vandalized-looted-and-damaged.html S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - FLASH : Cholera back in Haiti, fear of epidemic, the UN ready to intervene The Ministry of Public Health informs the population that several suspected cases of cholera have been reported in disadvantaged neighborhoods, such as Cite-Soleil, Brooklyn and Martissant and a confirmed case in Savane Pistache / Decayette in the commune of Port-au-Prince (PAP), in a context marked by the worsening of the socio-politico-economic crisis in Haiti. The Haitian government announced on Sunday that at least 8 people have possibly died of cholera, sparking fears of another outbreak in Haiti which was classified as a cholera-free country in February 2022 https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-35889-icihaiti-health-3-years-without-cholera-haiti-awaits-its-who-elimination-certificate.html "Cholera is something that can spread very, very quickly," said Dr. Laure Adrien, Director General of the Ministry of Public Health, stressing "Most of the victims died in their neighborhoods and were unable to reach to the hospital", lack of fuel, lack of transport and the demonstrations which prevented people from getting to the hospital in time [...] Water has not been available in these areas for a long time and people do not drink treated water adding that cholera cases could increase again. "We ask people who can afford it to add a little chlorine to the water they drink." Adrien said that health officials are trying to visit communities where suspected cases of cholera have been reported, but that his Ministry is also affected by the lack of fuel "It's a real problem [...] We hope that it will not spread. He pleads for the lifting of barricades and free access to the Varreux oil terminal, which has been blocked for almost 20 days, in order to allow patients to access healthcare establishments or ambulances to be able to reach them. "Yes, we have cases of diarrhea and vomiting, but we cannot speak for the moment of cholera", informed Medecins sans frontieres (MSF), confirming that patients have the symptoms which correspond to the disease, but that wait for lab results to confirm Dr William Pape, who has been at the forefront of the fight against cholera for almost 10 years, told the Spanish press that he knew people had died at home after suffering from acute diarrhea and vomiting accompanied by dehydration "but to be sure that it is indeed cholera, we need a laboratory diagnosis" pending the results of the analysis of the samples which have been sent to the National Public Health Laboratory (LNSP). The United Nations supports the efforts of the Government of Haiti to contain a cholera outbreak and provide emergency measures to save lives, following the confirmation of a positive case by the LNSP and the identification of several suspected cases in the metropolitan region of Port-au-Prince. The case was identified using the cholera surveillance mechanism, established by the Haitian authorities and supported by the United Nations. It was confirmed as positive at the National Public Health Laboratory in Port-au-Prince on Sunday 2 October. Additional suspected cases are currently being investigated in the metropolitan area. The United Nations is actively monitoring the situation and is working with the government to mount an emergency response to this potential outbreak, focused not only on limiting the spread of the disease, but also on informing the population how to take immediate lifesaving action at the household level. Additional support will consist of expanded surveillance, increased water and sanitation provision, the opening of cholera treatment centers and the reinforcement of case management. Specialized emergency response teams are ready to be deployed to support affected communities. However, in the current socio-political context, it is imperative that these teams be guaranteed safe access to areas where cases have been confirmed or suspected, to help mitigate the risk of a large or disruptive outbreak. The United Nations is committed to stand side by side with the Haitian people and Haitian authorities as they seek to contain this outbreak. The MSPP is counting on the collaboration of the population while taking the necessary measures to contain this outbreak. To avoid catching cholera, the Ministry recommends that everyone take all appropriate hygiene measures: Hand washing; Consumption of drinking water (or boiled water, or water treated with a chlorine product) Food protection Use of latrine for defecation. Anyone with acute, profuse diarrhea should go immediately to the nearest health center. The Ministry will keep the population informed of the evolution of the situation and invites everyone to be vigilant. S/ HaitiLibre By William Schwartz | Published on 2022/10/02 Actress Ku Hye-sun recently issued a response to fans alarmed by her apparent sudden weight gain. In recently released pictures from the Chunsa Film Art Awards red carpet, Ku Hye-sun was photographed wearing a patterned two piece black-and-white outfit that only barely seemed to fit. Only one of the buttons on the jacket was closed, leaving most of the skirt visible. As recently as two months ago, Ku Hye-sun was thin as normal in pictures, and would have fit the outfit easily. Ku Hye-sun on the Red Carpet on Spe. 30, 2002 for the 27th Chunsa Film Art Awards Advertisement In an Instagram post, Ku Hye-sun explained that the reason for the weight gain was because her heart had been in pain recently. Ku Hye-sun appeared to be referring to the death of one of her dogs, Potato, about three weeks ago. Posts about Potato's death appear elsewhere in Ku Hye-sun's Instagram account. Ku Hye-sun stated that she would recover at the Busan International Film Festival, which she will be attending on October 5th and October 6th. Ku Hye-sun has been attending these events as an ambassador for the Global Arts Fair of Singapore rather than to promote any of her own work. Ku Hye-sun has been focusing on gallery exhibitions and new age music recently, and there has been no word of her returning to screen projects as either an actress or a director. This isn't the first time Ku Hye-sun has gone through an abrupt weight change- she lost eleven kilograms after her divorce from actor Ahn Jae-hyun in 2019. Written by William Schwartz The Finnish majority state-owned airline said the negotiations will concern about 770 employees working in executive, expert and managerial roles in Finland. They will not, however, concern crew or other operative employees in any of its countries of operation. FINNAIR on Thursday announced it will begin consultative negotiations with its staff over the termination of up to 200 jobs globally, including 120 in Finland. The job cuts are part of a strategic effort to restore profitability to pre-pandemic levels and transition to operating with a smaller capacity. Russias invasion of Ukraine and the closed Russian airspace have impacted our business significantly. Thus, in addition to other actions to restore Finnairs profitability, we have to discuss measures that are, unfortunately, the most painful ones for our employees, commented Topi Manner, the chief executive of Finnair. The airline said it will also discuss setting up a social support programme for employees who could lose their jobs due to the downsizing. The negotiations are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, 5 October. Finnair in September revealed that it intends to balance its route network and downsize its fleet as part of a strategic re-think necessitated by the war in Ukraine. The airline has set itself the goal of reducing unit costs by 15 per cent from the level of 2019 and achieve comparable earnings before taxes and other adjustments of five per cent by 2024. The company has adopted cost-cutting measures worth over 200 million euros in the past 30 months. Aleksi Teivainen HT A new and improved version of the Kela.fi website has been launched. The purpose of the new website is to improve the customer service experience and to offer added support to e-service users. The new launch will also allow a series of further changes at Kela.fi that will improve the sites usability and accessibility. The Kela.fi address and the sites contents will remain the same, but the site has undergone a redesign. E-services will not be impacted. The biggest changes are in the websites look and feel and the navigation features. The websites address and structure remain the same. The new website is more resilient and easier to use on mobile devices. Navigating between different language versions is easier. We've taken to heart the feedback weve received from our customers and partners, says Maija Luotonen, the Kela.fi editor in chief. One of the changes we've made is to make it easier to navigate between the sites different language versions. The relaunch of the website on the new platform will impact the content on the site but the e-services will not be affected. The OmaKela e-service for customers and the e-services for partner organisations and employer will continue to work as before. Content to be added later The new Kela.fi website will be launched on an expedited schedule in order to safeguard access to services. Unfortunately, we will not be able at the outset to meet all of the requirements we have set for the website, but we are making a concerted effort to ensure that kela.fi will serve all of our customers as soon as possible, Acting Director of Communications Ville Korhonen says. Initially, the website will be available as a version that lacks certain features, such as a service point locator tool, instead of which there is a link to the Suomi.fi service map. Still, the new website features most of the content on the old kela.fi website. Content on the webpages targeted at customers remains the same, Luotonen says, adding that the section for partner organisations may initially lack some content, which will be added as soon as possible. Give feedback Development of the website continues. Users will find a feedback form at the bottom of each page that they can fill in to provide feedback on a specific page. Feedback is important for improving the website further. Kela.fi has one of the largest visitor counts among Finnish websites, recording more than 56 million visits in 2021. There are nearly 8,000 individual pages on kela.fi. The website caters to individual customers, employers, Kelas partner organisations and other stakeholders. HT Source: Kela THE NUMBER of Finnish decision-makers who hold political offices at several levels of governance has grown election after election since 1996, reports Libera, a politically unaffiliated think tank in Helsinki. Libera highlighted in a report published last week that nearly 80 per cent of all candidates and 77 per cent of successful candidates in the county elections held at the start of the year had at least one other political mandate before the elections. Most Members of the Parliament, meanwhile, have a seat also on a municipal council (86%) and on a county council (54%). A triple mandate isnt all that rare, as seven per cent of county councillors are politicians on three administrative levels, Tero Lundstedt, a content manager at Libera, stated to Helsingin Sanomat. Many European countries, the newspaper wrote, have taken action to restrict the possibilities of decision-makers to hog seats at several administrative levels in a bid to prevent conflicts of interest and situations that promote corruption. Such concerns are warranted with elected officials who serve on the board of a municipally owned listed company or a cooperative that is mulling over a major investment. In the Nordic context, the Finnish approach to dual mandates can be described as peculiar. Other Nordics have not prohibited dual mandates, but they are approached with caution, reads the report by Libera. Some of the true superpoliticians in Finland are Minister of Education Li Andersson (LA) and Minister of Finance Annika Saarikko (Centre), according to Helsingin Sanomat. Both Andersson and Saarikko not only lead their respective parties and hold a ministerial portfolio, but also perform the duties of a municipal councillor, county councillor and the Member of the Parliament. Lundstedt told Helsingin Sanomat that he was surprised at the lack of discussion about the dangers and problems associated with the concentration of positions of power while the well-being services counties were being established. Members of the Parliament who also serve on a county council might be responsible for, on the one hand, seeing to the sustainability of public finances and, on the other, pursuing funding for the county. Conflicts of interest might arise also for county councillors with an ownership stake in a company providing social and health care services to the county. Its good to understand that there are problems in the concentration of power. If you work on behalf of one administrative level, you may simultaneously let down those who elected you to an office on another level, said Lundstedt. The task of attending all meetings alone requires exceptional scheduling skills, not to mention the time required to be sufficiently prepared to contribute to each one. Even if you look beyond the conflicts of interest, there are limits to how much time an individual has at their disposal. You simply cant be in two places at the same time, he highlighted. Professional politicians often argue that participating in decision-making at different levels of governance helps them to accumulate beneficial knowledge. Lundstedt, however, viewed that the disadvantages of having numerous mandates easily outweigh the advantages. Voters could be asking what happened to my consumer protection, he said to Helsingin Sanomat. Aleksi Teivainen HT Minnesota investors to break ground on $80M warehouse project on McMurray Road A Minnesota investment company plans to break ground this week on the Blue Ridge Commerce Center, an $80 million industrial/warehouse development made up of four buildings and 654,216 square feet of Class A space on a 65-acre site on McMurray Road. Oppidan Investment Co., a national property development firm headquartered in Minneapolis with offices in Apex, will break ground on the project at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 6. Construction is expected to be completed in late summer of 2023. The property sits directly on Interstate 26 with great visibility and easy access to both Asheville and Greenville, S.C. We are excited to bring Henderson County and the Town of Hendersonville a Class A Industrial Park," said Tim Brent, Oppidan's executive vice president Southeast. "This property was prime for development and the demand drivers of the area, with its continued population growth, labor and connectivity, made it an easy decision for us to invest here. This is Oppidans second industrial development in North Carolina. In May 2022, the company broke ground on the $100 million Apex Commerce Center, a four-building Class A industrial development on 121 acres. The Apex project is part of Oppidans $157.3 million nine-property industrial pipeline with Rockpoint Group, a real estate private equity firm. Rockpoint Group serves as the equity partner. Also included in the project are Omega Construction, Cooper Construction and Merriman Schmitt Architects. Al Williams, Matthew Greer and Jay Hill from JLL served as the brokers. For more information, visit Oppidan.com. GRACE LEO is a founding partner of The Relais Henley, the former Red Lion Hotel. The daughter of a Hong Kong hotelier, she has been involved in the hotel trade all her life and also has her own consultancy. Grace has created and co-authored more than 20 independent and memorable hotels worldwide. Describe your business In October 2020, my business partner Tim Hartnoll and I purchased the landmark Red Lion Hotel. The building was very run down but we have turned it around after a full renovation. How many people does it employ? Seventy staff ranging from full-time department heads to hourly employees. What did you do before you started this business? For the two years immediately before coming to Henley, I was involved in a conversion project of the Grade II listed Ten Trinity Square hotel in the City. This was principally the reason for my move from Paris and New York, where I lived before. I curated the interior programme, project-managed the process for the owners and brought in the best luxury operator to run it, Four Seasons Hotels. When did you start your business? I founded a hospitality consultancy in Paris in 1988, specialising in developing upscale lifestyle hotels from Europe to the Caribbean/North America. What was your objective? I had worked for a hotel investment company who hired me to acquire distressed hotels in Europe and turn them around to build up a portfolio of properties. I realised that no one at that time offered the type of customised services I was providing so I set up on my own. Who or what influenced you? My father co-owned a pioneering hotel for international visitors in Hong Kong and this had a significant influence on me as a child. Do you have a mentor or role model? Adrian Zecha, who founded the most photogenic Aman Resorts that revolutionised the luxury vacation hotel space, and Robert Burns, a charismatic and visionary hotelier who created Regent Hotels. What would you do differently if you could start again? I have always been quite fearless and determined so there may have been things that I could have done differently or possibly better but I have no regrets. What impact did the coronavirus pandemic have on your business? The pandemic has, thankfully, diminished but the Relais management remains vigilant about keeping our employees and guests safe with the best hygiene practices. International visitors have started coming back to the UK and Henley is slightly behind that curve. How is your business doing compared with last year? We only re-opened in August 2021 so we are growing the business and occupancy. We already have guests from last year returning. Whats the best thing about running your own business? The ability to create and shape the business model with your vision and hopefully succeed. (The worst thing is if you get it wrong, it falls on your own shoulders too.) Whats the most challenging aspect? Post-Brexit and post-covid, recruiting and managing people in an intensively service-dependent sector is the singular most difficult operating issue I have dealt with in my career. It is not a UK phenomenon but has spread out to the rest of the world. Where is your business headed? The Relais Henley is our flagship property and from this we are trying to develop the company and the brand, which we have named The Relais Retreats, and to grow it to five or six hotels in the next few years. Our second property is the Cooden Beach Hotel in East Sussex, which has just re-opened after nine months of refurbishment. How important are online sales? Online room bookings are the lifeline of the hotel business. We manage the process to optimise revenue because an empty room is perished when not sold. Whats the most valuable thing youve learned? Be humble, listen well and adapt to the ever-changing environment or you will tumble. What would you advise someone starting a business? Make a business plan dont just think how much money youll be making, consider how much money you could stand to lose. Starting your own business is not for the faint-hearted. If youre ready and determined and you have some resources to back your conviction, then follow your instincts and heart but be prepared to work like youve never done before. What three qualities are most important to success? Lucidity, audacity and perseverance. Whats the secret of your success? Being a fair and steadfast leader is what works for me. To gain respect from others you must treat others with equal respect. How organised are you? Enough to understand my priorities and gather a competent team to ensure the job gets done. How do you dress for work each day? Dressing up with elegance and style is part of my DNA, whether its for a formal event or a weekend barbecue with friends. It is an important part of my persona as well as to project the right image professionally. What cant you be without every day? My iPhone and a good coffee to start the day. Lunch at your desk or going out? Quick lunches discussing work-related matters with my team. What do you read? I only read when I am on vacation, so thats not too many books. My current unfinished book is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. How are you planning for retirement? No rest for the wicked, no retirement in sight keeping active is the secret of staying youthful. A GROUP of schoolchildren raised 400 with a toy and bakes sale. Madeleine Chandrapal, Izzy Masters, Athena Streather, Grace Porter, Chloe Barton, Mia Watkinson, Florence Trower, Lara Nicholson and Ganeve Grewal are all in year 6 at Shiplake Primary School. They wanted to raise money for playground equipment at the school in Memorial Avenue and for the Ukraine appeal. Graces mother Ellen Broughton said: The girls came up with the idea for the sale themselves. There was a bake sale in Binfield Heath recently that was a big success. The girls were inspired by that and wanted to do something themselves. They discussed what they wanted to sell cakes, clothes, toys and then spoke to their mums about it. They went through their own wardrobes and toy boxes and got the parents to bake cakes. Family members and neighbours helped out. The girls promoted the sale at their school assembly and put up homemade posters around the primary and in the village. After getting permission to leave school early on a Friday, they set up a stall outside one of the girls houses. Ms Broughton, a photographer, said: The sale was well attended by parents and children walking home. They picked up bargain books, clothes and toys as well as enjoying homemade bakes, sweets and a lucky dip. Half of the teachers came. The students were chuffed that they took the time to come out and support them. She said the girls had heard about the war in Ukraine through talks at school and the news. They are very aware about what is going on, she said. There are no refugee pupils currently at Shiplake but there are some adults in the Binfield Heath area. The girls are not entirely sure yet what to spend the money on but they want to buy skipping ropes, balls and other playground games. They will donate the rest of the money to Ukrainian charities. Meanwhile, the Governments Homes for Ukraine Scheme is coming to an end for many Ukrainians living in the UK. The scheme, which was introduced in March, allowed refugees fleeing the war to be sponsored by a household for six months. The newer Ukraine Extension Scheme gives permission to remain for three years without requiring a sponsor. There are also options to switch to a work or study visa. WE are delighted to have been able to resume live meetings at Woodcote village hall but we will also be continuing our monthly Zoom talks. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, October 4 at 7.30pm via Zoom when John Greenacre will speak on Army aviation in Northern Ireland. In 1969 the prolonged spate of violence that broke out in Northern Ireland and became known as The Troubles was countered militarily by Operation Banner, which would run until 2006. The Army Air Corps made a crucial contribution to Operation Banner, providing helicopters and fixed wing aircraft that carried out intelligence gathering and surveillance, moved troops around bandit country and fought back against terrorist groups. A generation of Army Air Corps aircrew and ground crew cut their teeth in Northern Ireland and the lessons they learned were carried forward to operations in the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. John Greenacre was commissioned into the British Army in 1988 and served as a reconnaissance and surveillance helicopter pilot with the Army Air Corps in the UK, Northern Ireland, Balkans, the Gulf, Kenya, Canada, Falkland Islands and Germany before he retired in 2011. He gained his PhD in history from Leeds University in 2009 with a thesis on the development of British airborne forces. He currently lectures in history at the University of Suffolk and is an active battlefield tour guide across Europe. The following meeting will be held at Woodcote village hall on Wednesday, October 12 at 7.30pm and will feature a talk called A British hospital ship at war by Nicci Pugh. This inspiring, informative and fascinating presentation illustrates the role of a modern-day floating hospital ship working 8,000 miles from home in the South Atlantic Ocean during the Falklands War. The second half of this talk relates to the work of the South Atlantic Medal Association, the tri-service charity for veterans of the Falklands War. This section includes excellent and unusual images of life on the Falkland Islands today, including some of the rare black-browed albatross nesting off the remote West Falkland Islands. Nicci is the author of White Ship Red Crosses (2010), which covers the many aspects of how the wider history of international hospital ships has developed over the centuries. Her father was Capt Dick Pugh CBE RN, a Second World War tiger moth and swordfish Fleet Air Arm pilot of some renown, who served in the Royal Navy from 1916 to 1950. THE search for a new Henley town centre manager has begun after Laurie-Jane Cann became the second person to leave the role this year. Mrs Cann, 47, stepped down today (Friday) because of health reasons. She was appointed by the town council in May, having previously worked as Oxford city centre manager and chief executive at the Newbury Business Improvement District. She took over the role from Craig Buckby, who left in February just 17 weeks after succeeding the previous manager, Helen Barnett. Mrs Cann, who lives with her husband near Abingdon, said: I am absolutely devastated to be stepping down due to my health concerns which currently prevent me from continuing to work full-time. The whole of Henley Town Council and Henleys businesses and community provided me with such a warm welcome and I was so pleased to be working in such a supportive and forward-thinking environment. I already very much felt part of Henleys future and despite no longer being able to contribute. I shall be supporting its development from the sidelines. Henley is a wonderful town to live, work and enjoy and, albeit very briefly, I am delighted and grateful to have been involved. One of Mrs Canns initiatives was pushing for shops to improve the cleanliness of their frotntages. She was also instrumental in plans to extend the Christmas Festival to three days and had intended to launch a summer series of outdoor performances in the town centre in August. NO drama would be complete without a crisis and Mary Blandy A Retrial was no exception. Twenty-four hours before the first performance at the HAODS Studio, the lead actress was taken ill and had to withdraw. The day was saved by Julie Huntington who swapped her directors chair for the part and turned in a performance deserving of an award. It was me or nobody, so there wasnt any choice in the matter, said Julie. Fortunately, Ive been with this play since the script was delivered in January and we had already seen it performed successfully to a sell-out audience at the Kenton Theatre, so I knew it very well. In fact it was that full audience which encouraged us to have another go at it and we sold out two nights again. It also meant that two celebrity narrators were able to go ahead with their roles at the start of the play. Nettlebed actor Simon Williams opened the retrial on the first night and BBC Radio Berkshire presenter Bill Buckley took on the role the day after. The play took the form of a retrial of Mary, who was hanged for the murder of her father, Francis, after a 13-hour trial at Oxford in 1752. Evidence has since emerged which cast doubt on the conviction and this time the audience, acting as a jury, was given the option of finding her guilty of manslaughter. All three performances from April and last week returned that verdict. The idea for the play came from former Henley Standard news editor Richard Reed who wanted to use it to raise money for the Chiltern Centre in Henley. The three performances have raised more than 2,500. Author Mike Rowbottom said the play had caused controversy and discussion. We heard of one couple who voted different ways and the poor husband spent the night on the sofa after a huge row, he said. I think thats it now, though. As I wrote in the play, we cant unhang Mary but we could at least lay out a mitigating case and clearly we did that because an overwhelming majority on each night was for manslaughter. Sebastien Antoine joined the Accor group in 2013, in a program dedicated to the "school of excellence" brand, which trains the managers of tomorrow in excellence. In 2014 he was able to evolve in catering under the sun of the Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port then joined the Alsatian capital as catering director of the Sofitel Grande Ile before joining the Pullman Paris Bercy as director of operations. Always looking for new challenges, it was in 2020, in the midst of a pandemic, that he joined the teams of Pullman, Novotel and Ibis Dakar where he held the position of Deputy General Manager. He had already marked the spirits of Strasbourg with his Quebec accent and his greedy dynamism of success, he returns today with the most beautiful of missions. Cushman & Wakefield, a global real estate services firm, has appointed Alessandro Belli as Head of Hospitality for Italy. Belli, who joins as a Partner, brings extensive experience in the hospitality industry in Italy, combined with a background in the real estate financial sector. He was previously Head of Hotel Investments at CDP Investimenti SGR, for whom he managed investments for a portfolio of hotels with over 2,000 rooms. At Cushman & Wakefield, Belli will lead a team in Italy, with a strong track record of transactions, leasing, valuations and advisory, including the recent sale of the Hotel Majestic in Rome. The team, which forms part of Cushman & Wakefield's broader EMEA Hospitality platform, will provide a full suite of services to investors, developers and operators of hotels, hostels, and extended stay accommodation. Prior to CDP, Belli spent more than 15 years at some of Italy's leading companies and real estate funds. He was Head of Acquisitions - Hospitality at Pirelli Real Estate, then held senior roles at Fabrica SGR, where he was Head of Investments, transacting over 1.5bn in investments. He was also Member of Castello SGR's Board of Directors. This appointment marks a return to Cushman & Wakefield, where he was previously a Senior Consultant in its Italian Capital Markets team prior to joining Pirelli. Apaleo, the open hospitality platform, has been selected by German brand, mk | hotels, to streamline its operations, leverage digital experiences for guests and staff as well as power its ambitious growth plans across the DACH regions and beyond. Our digital landscape was coming to the end of its lifecycle and it was crucial for us to select a partner, which truly allows us to innovate at scale by automating processes and offering a modern guest experience shares Arno Sonderfeld, mk | hotels Managing Director. Apaleos native multi-property platform was another determining factor in our choice, enabling a high-speed migration and rollout across the group. Each of the 13 mk | hotels properties, spread across Germany, the UK and more recently, Albania, has its unique character, just like the lively cities around it, offering a central location and modern service concept at attractive conditions. Moving forward, every hotel will enable guests to check in, access their room, pay & check out on their own with the combination of Apaleo and some of its innovative app partners from the Apaleo Store. The platforms capacity to enable a high level of departments centralisation was also key to mk | hotels unlocking efficiencies. Managing the whole portfolios reservations, customer service and revenue departments from a central office, the brand was looking for a way to reduce data silos and enable on-demand & quick access to all business data for its teams. We always love to partner with renowned brands like mk | hotels, and see them embrace modern technology to cater to new guest & staff expectations, said Philip Von Ditfurth, co-founder at Apaleo. I am excited to see the group unlock its full digital potential with this transition from legacy technology to Apaleo! About Apaleo Founded in 2017 out of Munich, Apaleo is the open property management platform for hotel and serviced apartment groups. Apaleo empowers accommodation providers to create the ultimate digital experience for guests & staff with Apaleo and some of the hundreds of integrations available in the Apaleo Store. The platform was built on the core belief that hospitality software should never be fixed in time because guest and staff expectations are constantly evolving & increasing, and every hospitality business must adapt to survive and thrive. Operators join Apaleo believing in the true value of the ecosystem and community to accelerate innovation. Customers include numa, Limehome, Mollies by Soho House and Vagabond Club. For more information, please visit apaleo.com. Thibault Gence Director of Growth When marketing for hotels, its important to measure and adjust your campaigns over time. Because online users spend time across a variety of different channels, a multichannel marketing approach provides the flexibility you need to spread the right messages to the right people. Before you can start targeting travelers, you need to address what objectives your business will value and how you will measure your campaign. Without a strategy, you could be missing the mark with your audience and your message. Establishing Campaign Objectives That Fit Your Business In the early stages of establishing a multichannel campaign, setting objectives will help you understand what youre striving to achieve. Different objectives can require different metrics for measuring success. You can choose holistic objectives that encompass your marketing efforts across the board. You can also narrow down your objectives to specific marketing channels to measure your campaign at every level. Either way, ensuring your objectives align with the goals of your business is key. Before you begin establishing your campaign objectives, ask yourself these questions: What are we trying to accomplish with our channels? What is the current state of the market and where is it going from here? Who are our competitors and what are they doing? What makes my business unique and how do I want to showcase it? Once youve gathered a complete picture of the state of your business, you can better plan your campaigns to make meaningful progress. Now, well look at example objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) to solidify your goals. Exploring Potential Objectives and KPIs A great way to structure your strategy is to establish the objective, and then get specific enough to make it a valuable marketing goal. Define your KPIs and then add a timeline to give your plan a direction. Here are some examples to help create a structure that works for you: Increase Revenue By looking to increase revenue, improve direct booking numbers, or reach new demographics, you can monitor changes in your campaign to help you adjust over time. Its also important to consider repeat business while engaging new customers. KPIs can include: Increasing customer referrals by X in Q1. Increasing average daily rate (ADR) by X by the end of the year. Increasing direct booking numbers by X by Q3. Increase Brand Awareness This objective sets the tone for analyzing the traffic around your campaign. By choosing channels where traffic is easily measurable, you can see your campaigns effectiveness in showcasing your brand. KPIs can include: Increasing website traffic by X each month. Increasing newsletter subscriptions by X by H2. Gain X followers on social media by the end of the quarter. Increase Consideration This objective is great for building content around the offerings you will provide travelers. Its the difference between a traveler choosing your business or destination over another. KPIs can include: Increasing the number of page views on your website by X by Q3. Decreasing the bounce rate of website visitors by X by the end of the year. Increasing the number of email sign-ups by X each month. Other examples can include increasing traveler engagement and repeat business, expanding content reach, and more. There are many different objectives and ways to lead your multichannel marketing campaigns. Finding what works for your business can help you lead thoughtful and measurable campaigns that educate travelers on the value you provide them. Multichannel marketing is a great way for travel marketers to get in front of travelers across multiple touch points. Learn more about how you can lay the foundation for a successful hotel multichannel marketing campaign today. About Sojern Sojern's digital marketing solutions for travel are built on more than a decade of expertise analyzing the complete traveler path to purchase. The company drives travelers from dream to destination by activating multi-channel branding and performance solutions on the Sojern Traveler Platform for more than 10,000 customers around the world. Recognized as a Deloitte Technology Fast 500 company six years in a row, Sojern is headquartered in San Francisco, with 600 employees based in Berlin, Dubai, Dublin, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Mexico City, New York, Omaha, Paris, Sao Paulo, Singapore and Sydney. View source Dubai - Thynk, the hospitality cloud for operational excellence, announced its partnership with Saudi Arabia-based Dur Hospitality, a leading Saudi hospitality company recognized for its extensive record in managing, developing, and operating a broad portfolio of hotels and residential compounds across the Kingdom, at the Future Hospitality Summit in Dubai last week. Developed by hoteliers for hoteliers and powered by Salesforce, the worlds largest Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform, Thynk.Cloud is designed to simplify and automate sales, operations, decision-making, and data management for hotels of any size. The partnership will enable the sales organization at Dur Hospitality to further enhance the way they manage their B2B business relationships and maximize their sales productivity and efficiency. Pascal Petit, Co-founder & CEO at Thynk.Cloud, said: We are excited to be working with Dur Hospitality, a company at the forefront of our industry when it comes to modern hospitality, agility and innovation. Together, our goal is to deliver a smart, modern system that not just streamlines processes and drives efficiency but enables hotel teams to deliver a unique guest experience, whether thats in one of the Groups branded hotels or in an independently managed property. Commenting on the announcement, President of Hotel Operations at Dur Hospitality, Hassan Ahdab, said: "Our collaboration with Thynk provides an immense opportunity to interconnect our processes further and accelerate enhanced customer experiences. Thynk's innovative digital ecosystem will drive personalization across our properties, amplifying our customer-centric approach and empowering our team members to make data-driven decisions in real-time while communicating with ''one voice''. Together, we will take customer-focused service to the next level". We have a shared vision to make hospitality an attractive and rewarding career for the next generation of hoteliers. We are committed to providing hotel teams with the latest innovative, customer-centric, and data-driven solutions. This will allow them to make the right decisions leveraging clean data, deliver better, faster and more personalized service, and develop higher margin revenues for their properties. We strongly believe that access to modern, smart tools will help young professionals build a rewarding hospitality career and bring better service to their guests and we cant think of a better partner than Dur Hospitality to do that with, Petit added. Founded in late 2019, Thynk has implemented over 150 hotels from 25 clients in 10 countries over the past eighteen months, primarily in Europe and the Middle East. Thynk is poised to enter the US market with a strong customer base and solid product feedback following the appointment of industry veteran Joel Pyser earlier this month as Chief Executive Officer for the Americas. About Dur Hospitality Dur Hospitality is a publicly listed company specializing in hotel operations, property & facility management, and real estate development & asset management in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company runs an extensive portfolio of 33 properties ranging from hotels to residential communities across the Kingdom with over 5,500 keys and has 14 additional properties in the pipeline. Through its wide range of differentiated hospitality and accommodation options, Dur serves its broad customer base of Saudi nationals, residents, and tourists through several of its specialized Saudi brands, such as Makarem Hotels, Dur Communities, Darraq, Shada Hospitality, and Dara. In parallel, by partnering with globally-acclaimed brands such as IHG Hotels and Resorts, Marriott International, and Accor, Dur enriches the Saudi hotel market with world-class accommodation selections embedded with its original, acclaimed Saudi hospitality. About Thynk.Cloud The Hospitality Cloud for Operational Excellence, Thynk.Cloud, is designed by hoteliers for hoteliers to simplify and automate sales, operations and data management. Thynk.Cloud leverages the world's leading CRM, Salesforce, as a platform to bring agile hospitality to the industry with a focus on driving B2B and MICE sales through data-driven decision-making. With Thynk.Cloud every process is easier, faster and fully integrated. Melissa Jurkoic Chief Experience Officer View source Indian metropolises, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, which have long served as the hospitality hubs of the country, were particularly hard hit by the pandemic and took longer to bounce back compared to leisure destinations. The main reason for this was that, even though these cities draw many tourists each year, over time most of the influx has been made up of business travelers, a group that was severely affected by the pandemic. These cities also suffered when travel picked up because leisure and offbeat locations won out and became the go-to getaways, despite the fact that many city hotels tried to face this stark new challenge by introducing staycation packages to entice locals. The resurgence of corporate travel and MICE segments has improved the fortunes of the hospitality industry in cities in recent months, but it's time to reconsider and shift the narrative about city tourism from being heavily dependent on corporate & MICE segments to becoming more holistic in the future. City tourism departments in collaboration with the private sector must develop strategies to attract more leisure tourists, particularly domestic visitors. Moreover, bleisure travel business travelers extending their business trips by a few days for leisure tourism activities is also gaining traction in India and is gradually becoming an important segment. It is, therefore, important that city tourism departments capitalize on these opportunities by providing travelers with new reasons to visit the city, rather than viewing it as merely an entry, exit, or transit point. Even though the majority of Indian cities are endowed with numerous monuments, historical sites, museums, zoological parks, and other tourist attractions, they were unable to draw many visitors before the pandemic. For instance, the Taj Mahal in Agra experienced twice as many visitors in FY20 as Delhi's Red Fort and Qutub Minar. Similarly, according to media reports, the Louvre in Paris experienced 910 million visitors annually, while the National Museum in Delhi welcomed 200,000300,000 visitors annually prior to the pandemic. There are several factors to blame for the decline in city tourism, the most important of which is their inability to engage audiences. Most tourist spots, including heritage sites and museums, in the cities, have activities ranging from light & sound shows, heritage/cultural walks, and cycle tours to culinary events and festivals to attract tourists; however, these have not been marketed and promoted well. Utilizing social media and collaborating with influencers can be a great way to spread the word about the city, its culture, and both well-known and lesser-known tourist attractions, which can help draw visitors of all ages. Following COVID, some state tourism boards, such as those in Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, and Maharashtra, have been early adopters of influencer marketing strategies. Using Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) content can help make visits to the citys tourist spots unique and exciting experiences for tourists. Many popular international tourist destinations, including the Vatican and the Louvre in Paris, are already successfully utilizing these technologies. We have only begun to explore this opportunity in India, where the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has begun offering VR experiences at five historical sites and is also working with the Rajasthan government and the Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, to develop a gaming platform using AR and VR to attract the younger generation. Finally, in order to draw visitors, city officials should consider regularly hosting events like concerts and music festivals, sporting events, literary events, and food or cultural fairs. For instance, half a million people visit Jaipur for the five-day Jaipur Literature Festival annually. To encourage tourism in the city, the Delhi government intends to hold a month-long shopping festival early in the following year, akin to the Dubai shopping festival. Several of these events can be hosted in a hybrid format to increase awareness, participation, and, in some cases, even revenue for all tourism stakeholders. Mandeep S Lamba President (South Asia), New Delhi +91 (124) 488 5552 HVS View source Columbia-Greene Media has recently teamed up with the US Postal Service to provide same-day delivery of your local newspaper with your mail. Our expanded daily delivery of your local news reaches into the following areas: Google & Co. are hiding details of their royalty settlement [Chris Castle Op-Ed] A Judges effort at transparency failed because Google and some other big corportations wanted it that way. Op-Ed by CHRIS CASTLE from Music Tech Policy You may have heard that there was a settlement of the streaming mechanical rates in the Copyright Royalty Board proceeding called Phonorecords IV. You may not have noticed in all the backslapping that no settlement agreement was filed with the CRB by the parties. The Copyright Royalty Judges noticed (as did George Johnson) and the Judges demanded that the parties either certify there was no settlement or file it. Note the Judges asked for the agreement because the Judges wanted it, not because George wanted it. Today it turns out that there was a settlement agreement but Google & Co. refused to file a public copy. The Judges were trying to promote transparency, but the lawless parties to the settlement decided to fix their wagonthey filed it under seal, which means that unless the Judges reject their assertion that the agreement should not be public, the Judges effort at transparency fails because the most dangerous corporations in the world want it that way. Why did the Judges ask for the settlement agreement? Simplethey almost got burned in the frozen mechanicals proceeding until they put their foot down. It turned out that there was a side deal that benefited some of the publishers but not all the songwriters who were subject to the frozen rates. Thats why the Judges rejected the first settlement. To their credit, the labels came back and openly settled at a much higher rate, including a cost of living adjustment for songwriters. But thats not what happened with streaming mechanicals and the most dangerous corporations in the world. So now we know that there is a settlement agreement, but we dont know what it says. We have to assume that the reason we dont know what it says is because some animals are more equal than others, to coin a phrase. The undisclosed settlement could include things like payment of the publishers legal fees, a nonrecoupable unallocated payment to sweeten the royalty rates for some but not all publishers, or special rights that dont accrue to all songwriters everywhere in the world. But it seems like there must be something they dont want songwriters to seeotherwise why hide the ball? They fail to understand a simple truthit is all the songwriters money. True, there are publishers involved, true there may be administrators, but at the end of the day however much we like and appreciate our publishers, these people are just visiting. Yet they want to keep songwriters from knowing the details, just like they did with the frozen mechanicals. But most insulting of all is that they are now doing it to the Judges. The Judges should simply reject this failure of transparency. It is one thing to hide commercial information; it is another to hide the very terms that apply to the royalty rates set for every songwriter in the world, then expect the Judges to just rubber stamp that hidden deal. Share on: Fall Foliage Festival Leaf Hunt Second Clues 2022 The following leaves have not been returned 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13 and 14 and redeemed for prizes during the first week of the annual hunt. Keep in mind the holiday theme with Labor Day stressed this year. The towns given in the first set of clues now have initials added as new hints. Under "Where We Labored" and "More Mills": 4. Adams P-SM, 13. Adams DA-WRG, 14. Adams BW-CP. Under "Railroad": 6. North Adams NT-HT, 7. Williamstown D-CB, 8. Cheshire RRST and 9. Florida ES-HTS. Please return all orange or yellow winning leaves to the North Adams City Hall Tourism Office by Oct. 11. Thanks and congratulations to those who solved clues 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 11, 12 and 15. All winners and solutions will appear later this month. The committee appreciates the donation of redemption space at Pedrin's from Sept. 24 to Oct. 2. Original post Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022 NORTH ADAMS, Mass. The annual Fall Foliage Leaf hunt, a traditional and popular feature that kicks off Fall Foliage Festival Week, starts today, Saturday. This year the committee has revealed that there will be 15 colorful leaves hidden in Adams, Cheshire, Clarksburg, Florida, North Adams and Williamstown. When a leaf is found it should be brought to Pedrin's Dairy Bar during normal operating hours to claim a prize. One prize per household please. Prizes are generously donated by area merchants including Pedrin's, Boston Sea Foods, Craft Food Barn, Planet Fitness, Big Y, North Adams Historical Society, North Adams MoviePlex 8, Walmart and Wild Oats. A second set of clues will be announced in the event of unclaimed leaves. The committee has repeated the last three years' successful procedure whereby one plastic bag with a yellow or orange leaf should be removed and brought in and another with a green leaf that should be left at the site so that subsequent hunters will know they correctly solved the clue but someone already claimed the prize-winning leaf. A complete list of winners, locations and sponsors will be released in October. All leaves should be returned by Oct. 11. As always, the leaf committee has included an invisible leaf hunt for homebound residents. Participants in the invisible hunt are asked to mail a postcard (or card in an envelope) with the number of the clue and the answer/s with their name, address and phone number, to the Mayor's Office of Tourism, City Hall, 10 Main St., North Adams MA 01247. Only mailed entries will be accepted. In the event of a tie the earliest postmark will determine the winner. Please submit answers to be received by Oct. 11. This year's theme is "Home for the Holidays" so we zeroed in on the most recent holiday earlier this month, Labor Day. The first set of clues are: Where We Labored 1. North Adams 2. Adams 3. North Adams 4. Adams 5. Clarksburg I've Been Workin' on the Railroad 6. North Adams 7. Williamstown 8. Cheshire 9. Florida 10. Adams More Mills 11. North Adams 12. Williamstown 13. Adams 14. Adams 15 North Adams Invisible Leaf Hunt Clues: Fill in the Blanks 1. Labor: In the 1870s North Adams had the largest population of __________________ east of the Mississippi, after Calvin ________________ replaced striking _______-_________ workers in his shoe factory by these laborers. 2. Railroads and mills go together. Please list three mills built along the railroad tracks in Northern Berkshire communities: _________ _____________, ___________ ________________ and _________ __________. 3. More Mills: Mass MoCA on _______ __________ formerly housed major employers ___________ _________ _______ until the 1940s and _________ __________ until the 1980s. Good luck. Thanks for participating. Tiny Town of Monroe Celebrates 200 Years State Rep. Paul Mark presents a replica of the fully-restored Town Charter to the Monroe Selectboard, from left, David Gagne, Alice Houghtaling, Paul Mark and Carla Davis. MONROE, Mass. The town celebrated its 200th anniversary with a special day of festivities on Sept. 17 this year. Visitors came from as far away as Connecticut, Maryland, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island and Vermont to help mark the occasion and share in the celebration. The Franklin County town was named for President James Monroe and incorporated during his second term in 1822, years after it was first settled in the early 1800s. With 118 residents, it's the smallest town on the mainland and the second smallest in the state after Gosnold, population 70. The day began with a prayer given by the Rev. Rick Gramlin of First Baptist Church in neighboring Readsboro, Vt., followed by the reading of town's Bicentennial Proclamation by Selectboard member Carla Davis. State Rep. Paul Mark presented the town with a replica of the fully-restored Town Charter as a personal gift from himself and state Sen. Adam Hinds. The celebration continued with kids' games and activities and Frenchy's Food Truck on one side of the Community Building, and food and drink served by the Fire Department on the other. Inside the historic building, (in what used to be a classroom for Grades 1-4 beginning in 1936), eventgoers found a memory board that displayed old photos and stories of growing up in Monroe, a booth to purchase a special one-day commemorative postal stamp marking the bicentennial, raffles, and lots of memorabilia including the new Town of Monroe Bicentennial History Book, T-shirts, postcards, magnets, calendars and tote bags for sale by the Monroe Historical Society. The Historical Society's "room above the garage" was also open throughout the day and saw lots of visitors. A cash-prize cornhole tournament for adults was held beginning at 1 p.m. and provided lots of fun for everyone. First-place winners were Jim Bua and Scott Charron. Taking second place were Avery Bills and Dan Lauth, and Brett Pierce and Jason Bills came in third. Visitors were also welcome to travel down to the Monroe Bridge Overlook area and sit, relax, take in the view of the Deerfield River and enjoy the beautiful day. Birthday cake made by Bailey's Bakery was provided for all later in the afternoon, and the band, Midnight 30, played to an enthusiastic audience from 2-5 p.m. Many positive comments were shared for days after. A big thank-you goes out to all who provided financial support, and a special thanks to those who volunteered so many hours of their labor to help make the day possible, including members of the Monroe Historical Society, the Monroe Fire Department, and the Monroe Selectboard. Anyone still wishing to purchase memorabilia or visit the Historical Society for what remains of Monroe's Bicentennial Year, should contact the society at monroema2022@gmail.com , visit the Monroe Kiosk on Facebook, or mail requests c/o Lucy Passardi, PO Box 7, Monroe Bridge, MA 01350. Submitted by the town of Monroe and the Monroe Historical Society. Across the road from where press are gathering to chat with new Cohesity CEO in the excellent Cinnamon Club restaurant, another sort of media scrum is taking place. The UK is changing Prime Ministers and the Palace of Westminster is a picture of chaos. But then Sanjay Poonens arrival as leader at Cohesity in August wasnt a textbook transition either, as he tells us. The disruptive backup company had filed for an IPO in late 2021 so it must have been a surprise to get a call from the company to say the then CEO Mohit Aron wanted to step down and would Sanjay be interested in replacing him. I didnt quite believe the narrative of what they were saying, Poonen recalls. It was [unusual] for a CEO at that stage to step back so I wanted to be sure that it was his decision and not that he was fired or forced out. It turns out that Aron saw his future in guiding technology and product development and he wanted to provide the focus depth that would leave space for an incoming CEO to provide the breadth. And that explains why what Poonen calls the dynamic duo emerged. John Updike once described fellow novelist Henry Green as a writers writers writer. Cohesity in that case is perhaps a tech insiders tech insiders tech insider. The person on the street will remain blissfully unaware of the company but it is another of those datacentre scale-ups likely to become rather large on the back of a critical infrastructure need. In this case its backup and recovery, a niche but a critical and therefore lucrative niche. He is too polite to name them but Poonen surely wants to take money away from the likes of Veritas, Commvault and the rest of the posse that got rich on the back of the need to store copies of data. In the same way that Snowflake and Databricks are overtaking Teradata, legacy backup players didnt modernise themselves for the webscale architecture for the new world of cloud, he says. They missed what he calls a black swan event, referring to the bird thought not to exist until it became highly visible. Name: Steven Salaets Company: Rimini Street Job title: CIO and EVP of Global Shared Services Date started current role: March 2020 Location: San Francisco Bay area Steven Salaets is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction and execution of global IT, human resources, facilities, security, quality, and internal audit. Salaets has more than 20 years of global experience in operations, security, compliance, risk, information technology, and human resources management. Prior to joining Rimini Street, Salaets held various management positions at Moodys KMV and Wind River leading global standardisation and integration projects, managing global teams across APAC, EMEA and the USA, defining enterprise architectural solutions, and running global IT and security offices across the globe. Salaets is a recognised leader in the IT and security industry and has received several industry awards. Most recently, he was recognised with a 2019 Stevie International Business Award for IT Executive of the Year. Salaets is a member of, and regular contributor to, the Forbes Technology Council and regularly speaks at events with other industry leaders. What was your first job? My first job was as a dishwasher at age 16. On a lucky day I was allowed to clean vegetables. Did you always want to work in IT? Without realising it, yes my dad was a programmer and I was 6 years old when I started tinkering with an Apple computer my dad bought to run his business. As a teenager, I was running bulletin board systems out of my basement. I was also building computers and networks for people. When I was 18 I ended up going to a computer store to see if I could get sponsorship for my bulletin board system, and while I was there I fixed a motherboard the owner was working on. They hired me on the spot! What was your education? Do you hold any certifications? What are they? Bachelor's degree from the KU Leuven Faculty of Engineering Technology in Leuven, Belgium. I am CISSP (ISC) certified, and at some point was also a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE). Explain your career path. Did you take any detours? If so, discuss. I started with corporate jobs after college. I was always very focused on the infrastructure side and then transitioned into security; due to my know-how, I was seen as a hacker of sorts. Then, when the SarbanesOxley Act came about in the early to mid-2000s, I really started to focus even more on security and compliance because it became a necessity. I then took a bit of a detour: I built an HR department from top to bottom, including every single function training, recruiting, payroll and so on. I did that for a few years and learned a lot about organisation design and people. Today I am the CIO at Rimini Street as well as overseeing Global Shared Services: HR, IT, Security and Facilities. As a result of the detours into compliance and HR, I have a much broader operational perspective. What business or technology initiatives will be most significant in driving IT investments in your organisation in the coming year? Were very focused on low-code and no-code initiatives, which has been an up-and-coming trend to build apps easily. Were heavily invested in this space because it gives businesses the flexibility to build the systems they need without necessarily depending on expert coders. We have a few use cases that we are looking to address with this platform. Were also in the midst of consolidating our HR systems into one platform, which will ultimately lead to operational efficiencies. This is a very strategic investment for us as to how we manage our workforce going forward. What are the CEO's top priorities for you in the coming year? How do you plan to support the business with IT? Our CEO is focused on strategic platform investments, with the goal of transforming the company into a billion-dollar company. To do this were looking to reduce redundancies by consolidating certain things where it makes sense, and generally not accepting the status quo we want to mature across the board. Were also focusing investments on better systems for both customer experience and employee experience. We are doing this by reducing operational costs, technology overlap and redundancy. We dont accept the status quo and are always looking at how can do things better, more efficiently or by maturing our organisational processes. We are making strategic investments in innovative new systems, tools, processes, reporting, analytics, data, websites and portals. Does the conventional CIO role include responsibilities it should not hold? Should the role have additional responsibilities it does not currently include? The conventional CIO is responsible for keeping the lights on, but this has shifted heavily in the last few years. As an illustration, the CEO of Panera Bread recently said, we are a tech company selling food, because the whole company runs on technology. In this modern era of business, the CIO oversees the end-to-end enterprise digital strategy, but they need to be empowered to transform. As part of that, the CIO has become responsible for overseeing end-to-end enterprise digital strategies. CIOs need to be empowered to drive these digital strategies and allow the business to move forward into the next era. Are you leading a digital transformation? If so, does it emphasise customer experience and revenue growth or operational efficiency? If both, how do you balance the two? We invested heavily in AI to better manage customer support, and so far, the results have been excellent. We created a patent-pending AI support platform that gives out experts proactive intelligence to accelerate client service and decrease the time it takes to resolve cases. After implementing the system, we improved our time-to-resolve by an average of 23%. The system was developed by our in-house innovation team, and they've developed a reputation for designing ground-breaking, proprietary support tools to assure we have the most responsive delivery model in the enterprise software support market. Using these tools, our average global client satisfaction score has jumped to 4.9 out of 5.0, where 5.0 is Excellent. Describe the maturity of your digital business. For example, do you have KPIs to quantify the value of IT? Our IT KPIs are based on operational excellence, customer service and the success of delivery. We look at these once a month to determine if theyre the right metrics and whether or not were missing anything. We tend to take a broader view where appropriate and measure the value of the project versus just the sheer cost. On the backend, we look at measures based on maturity to determine if we did things right. What does a good culture fit look like in your organisation? How do you cultivate it? Were very entrepreneur-minded, and the people who fit in well can move fast whether theyre successful or not. If were going to fail at all we fail fast, learn from it and move forward from there. That said, moving to a billion-dollar company makes this dynamic challenging. Teams and the organisation as a whole need structure, but you also want to empower people to be innovative. So our culture and operations are changing a bit, as we are making that shift from entrepreneurial to a structured, larger company mindset. What roles or skills are you finding (or anticipate to be) the most difficult to fill? Overall, the way people interview is changing. There is a lot of talk in HR about what type of personality fits in well and weaving those types of questions into the process. The Great Resignation is real some positions have been open for more than a year, particularly those that call for niche skill sets, we have been having a hard time finding security engineers, ETL developers and ServiceNow engineers. What's the best career advice you ever received? A former CIO I worked with would sit down in a one-on-one meeting and have me think about whats possible. It could be things that were previously unheard of, this was 2005 and he would talk to me about things such as wireless charging for your phone, or gigabit internet in every home and all of the possibilities around things like this. Then he would shift to translating that to business value and how to put it all together. It allowed me to shift from being an engineer coming up with great technology solutions to being business-focused and solving business problems with technology. Do you have a succession plan? If so, discuss the importance of and challenges with training up high-performing staff. Yes, we have formal succession plans in place and its something we look at yearly, to ensure we are investing in successors and are developing them as they grow in their careers. This includes giving them the exposure they need to grow. For example, we do quarterly business reviews with C-level executives around the organisation, letting various leaders on the team participate and at times lead these conversations, giving them exposure to the C-suite and further developing them. What advice would you give to aspiring IT leaders? Beyond the technology, understand the business issues, how you can solve problems with tech, and what the end value is. You also need to build a strong team around you no one can do it on their own. Finally, stay current. You need to be up to date on tech at every moment. This was easier before the pandemic when you could easily attend in-person events. I used to require my leadership team to go to industry events at least once a quarter to make sure we were staying on top of the current trends. These days podcasts, webinars and reading are the way to go. What has been your greatest career achievement? In my 14 years at Rimini Street, Im proud of what weve built. We started from the ground up and got it to where it is today. We brought in a few million annually when I joined, and now were closing in on becoming a billion-dollar company with roughly 1,700 employees and over 3,000 customers. Im also very proud of the Rimini Foundation. We have supported 350+ charities in 6 continents around the world and our employees have donated over 3,250 hours of volunteer hours. The impact this is making to communities all over the world is amazing and something we are very proud off. Its an honor to be part of the Rimini Street team and all we have built together. Looking back with 20:20 hindsight, what would you have done differently? I honestly dont think about what I could have or should have done I try my best to learn from things and keep moving forward. Just enjoy what you are doing and evolve as we go along. I do sometimes laugh and remember that when I was 21, I thought I had it all figured out. Then you see how much you change and grow over the years and come to realise you didnt know anything. Ahmed Mohamed Shukur, a reporter for the Somali National Television (SNTV), was killed in a landmine blast in the Basro neighbourhood of Balad district on September 30 while covering the counter-terrorism operations by the Somali security forces. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its Somali affiliate, the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) condemn the killing of Shukur and urge the federal government to redouble efforts to ensure the safety of journalists and media workers in the country. According to preliminary reports quoted by NUSOJ statement , Shukur was on assignment to cover the counter-terrorism operations by the Somali security forces, aimed at dislodging elements of the Al-Shabaab militias from the area. Banadir Region Police Commander, General Farhan Mohamoud Adan, was also killed in the same incident. He became the first journalist to be killed in Somalia this year. NUSOJ Secretary General Oman Faruk Osman said: We are saddened and mourn the needless death of yet another young and brave journalist in the line of duty. [...] We condemn this cruel attack that claimed the life of a promising journalist who sacrificed his personal safety to bring details of this operation to the people of Somalia and the world in general. IFJ Secretary General Anthony Bellanger said: The IFJ is deeply saddened by the killing of Shukur, the first journalist murdered in Somalia this year. We call for urgent action to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. Violence against media workers in the country will not end until the crimes against them are punished. This article highlights Indias current trade trends as well as long-term projections that peg Indias export valuation at US$1 trillion by 2030. While discussing recent trade agreements and the opportunities to boost trade, we provide a detailed explainer of export-import procedures in India and the process of setting up a trading company. It must be noted that the current procedures are governed by the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-20, which has been extended till March 30, 2023. Indias trade statistics have amplified exponentially in the recent years, with financial year 2021-22 (FY 2022) recording the highest ever value of merchandise exports. The government is buoyant about hitting the US$500 billion export target in FY 2023 through rupee-denominated trade and various recent bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs), such as those signed with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia. To make Indian exports globally more competitive, India also recently released National Logistics Policy, which provides for seamless integration of multiple modes of transportation by leveraging technology, processes, and skilled manpower. The policy, which is in line with PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, will give a massive boost to Indias US$200 billion logistics sector, thereby enabling smooth movement of goods both domestically and internationally. WEBINAR Diversify your Business to India: Opportunities and Channels of Entry (October 27, 2022) 22:30 to 23:30 India Time Join us as Rohit Kapur, Dezan Shira & Associates Country Manager of India discusses opportunities for US businesses in India, direct investment policies, trade channels, and market entry routes in this informative webinar designed to support businesses diversifying or expanding to India. Some topics to be covered: Doing Business with Indians Channels of Trade and the How of Exporting to India Manufacturing in India Incentive Schemes and Opportunities Market Entry Routes This webinar is FREE of charge. REGISTER TODAY Indias trade trends and outlook Indias aggressive policy push, coupled with large scale infrastructural augmentation, has resulted in increased volume of exports and imports in the last few years. Some of Indias top trading partners include the United States (US), which surpassed China in the previous fiscal to emerge as Indias largest trading partner. UAE, too, has emerged as one of Indias top trading partners on the back of increasing oil trade. In FY 2022, merchandise exports from India reached a new high at US$417.81 billion, marking a surge of 43.18 percent over the US$291.18 billion recorded in FY 2021. During the same period, Indias merchandise imports soared to US$610.22 billion, an increase of 54.71 percent over the U$394.44 billion registered during FY 2021. Indias Top Trading Partners in FY 2021-22 (in US$ Million) Country Export Import Total trade Trade balance US 76,167.01 43,314.07 119,481.08 32,852.94 China 21,259.79 94,570.57 115,830.36 -73,310.78 UAE 28,044.88 44,833.48 72,878.36 -16,788.60 Saudi Arabia 8,758.94 34,100.58 42,859.52 -25,341.64 Iraq 2,403.27 31,927.05 34,330.33 -29,523.78 Singapore 11,150.61 18,962.19 30,112.80 -7,811.58 Hong Kong 10,984.80 19,096.61 30,081.41 -8,111.81 Indonesia 8,471.51 17,702.83 26,174.34 -9,231.31 Korea Rp 8,085.03 17,477.20 25,562.24 -9,392.17 Australia 8,283.13 16,756.17 25,039.30 -8,473.04 Germany 9,883.34 14,968.10 24,851.43 -5,084.76 Switzerland 1,348.57 23,392.32 24,740.89 -22,043.76 Japan 6,176.77 14,399.77 20,576.54 -8,222.99 Belgium 10,084.37 9,951.65 20,036.02 132.72 Malaysia 6,995.04 12,424.20 19,419.24 -5,429.16 Bangladesh 16,156.37 1,977.93 18,134.30 14,178.44 UK 10,461.29 7,017.78 17,479.07 3,443.51 South Africa 6,085.29 10,965.81 17,051.10 -4,880.52 Netherland 12,543.69 4,478.10 17,021.79 8,065.59 Thailand 5,751.30 9,332.59 15,083.88 -3,581.29 Qatar 1,837.75 13,193.70 15,031.45 -11,355.95 Nigeria 4,663.17 10,291.58 14,954.75 -5,628.40 Vietnam 6,702.67 7,438.52 14,141.19 -735.85 Italy 8,180.76 5,048.47 13,229.22 3,132.29 Russia 3,254.68 9,869.99 13,124.68 -6,615.31 Indias top exports The top exports of India are engineering goods, gems and jewelry, petroleum products, drugs and pharmaceuticals, organic chemicals, electronic goods, etc. Indias import basket primarily comprises petroleum and crude products, electronic goods, gold, machinery and electrical appliances, pearls, stones and semi-precious metals, transport equipment, etc. Export-import procedures in India Foreign trade in India is promoted and facilitated by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The DGFT issues the authorization to exporters and monitors their corresponding obligations through a network of 38 regional offices. The DGFT also implements the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), which is notified by Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992. Presently, the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 has been effective since April 1, 2015 having now been extended till March 30, 2023. Procedure to set up an export-import unit in India Establishing a unit : To start the export business, first a sole proprietary concern, partnership firm, or a company has to be set up as per procedure. : To start the export business, first a sole proprietary concern, partnership firm, or a company has to be set up as per procedure. Opening a bank account : A current account with a bank authorized to deal in foreign exchange should be opened. : A current account with a bank authorized to deal in foreign exchange should be opened. Obtaining permanent account number (PAN) : It is necessary for every exporter and importer to obtain a PAN from the Income Tax (IT) Department. : It is necessary for every exporter and importer to obtain a PAN from the Income Tax (IT) Department. Obtaining importer-exporter code (IEC) number : As per the FTP, it is mandatory to obtain the IEC for export and import from India. An application for IEC is filed online with the DGFT as per ANF 2A, and an online payment of application fee of INR 500 through net banking or credit/debit card must be made along with submission of requisite documents as mentioned in the application form. : As per the FTP, it is mandatory to obtain the IEC for export and import from India. An application for IEC is filed online with the DGFT as per ANF 2A, and an online payment of application fee of INR 500 through net banking or credit/debit card must be made along with submission of requisite documents as mentioned in the application form. Registration cum membership certificate (RCMC) : Exporters are required to obtain RCMC granted by the concerned Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Federation of Indian Export Organization (FIEO), Commodity Boards, or authorities in order to avail authorization to export-import or any other benefit or concession under FTP 2015-2020. RCMC is also required to avail the services and guidance from EPCs. : Exporters are required to obtain RCMC granted by the concerned Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Federation of Indian Export Organization (FIEO), Commodity Boards, or authorities in order to avail authorization to export-import or any other benefit or concession under FTP 2015-2020. RCMC is also required to avail the services and guidance from EPCs. Covering risks through ECGC: Risks involved in international trade owing to buyer or country insolvency can be covered by an appropriate policy from the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation Ltd (ECGC). Where the buyer is placing order without making advance payment or opening Letter of Credit, it is advisable to procure credit limit on the foreign buyer from ECGC to protect against risk of non-payment. Procedure to Incorporate a Trading Unit in India Export-import documentation in India All the export or import applications must be filed with the DGFT. As per the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-20, following are the mandatory documents needed for an EXIM unit to export or import from India: Mandatory documents for export and import in India Export Import Bill of Lading, Airway Bill, Lorry Receipt, Railway Receipt, Postal Receipt Bill of Lading, Airway Bill, Lorry Receipt, Railway Receipt, Postal Receipt in Form CN-22 or CN-23 Commercial Invoice cum Packing list Commercial Invoice cum Packing list Shipping Bill, Bill of Export, Postal Bill of Export Bill of Entry Apart from the above-mentioned mandatory documents, additional documents like certificate of origin and inspection certificate may be required on case-to-case basis. Other important export import procedures and documentation include the following: GST Return Forms (GSTR 1 and GSTR 2) and GSTR Refund Form Exchange Control Declaration Bank Realization Certificate RCMC How to import goods in India? Obtaining import license and quota The importer must attach the following documents to their application form: Receipt which shows that import license fee has been paid. Certificate from a Chartered Accountant (CA) showing the total value of goods to be imported. Verification certificate for income tax The Indian Trade Classification Harmonized System (ITC-HS) allows for the free import of most goods without a special import license. Most items fall within the scope of Indias export-import policy regulation of Open General License. This means that products can be freely importable without restrictions and without a license unless they are regulated by the provisions of the policy or applicable laws. However, certain goods that fall under the following categories require special permission or licensing. Imports of items not covered by Open General License are regulated and fall into three categories: Banned or prohibited items : These goods are strictly prohibited from import and include tallow fat, animal rennet, wild animals, and unprocessed ivory. : These goods are strictly prohibited from import and include tallow fat, animal rennet, wild animals, and unprocessed ivory. Restricted items requiring an import license Canalized items: Canalized items can only be imported via specific transportation channels and methods or through government agencies such as the State Trading Corporation (STC). These include petroleum products, bulk agricultural products, such as grains and vegetable oils, and some pharmaceutical products. Following authorities are responsible for issuing import license for respective commodities: Department of Electronics for computer and computer-related systems Department for the Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIIT Technical Support Wing) for organized sector units registered under it, except for computers and computer-based systems Ministry of Defense for defense-related items DGFT for small-scale industries not covered above Obtaining foreign exchange Before placing any order, the importer must apply to the Exchange Control Department (ECD) of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the release of requisite foreign exchange. The importer should forward the application through their bank. The ECD verifies the application of the importer, and if found valid, sanctions the foreign exchange for the particular transaction. Placing an order The importer may either place the order directly or through an agent. In case of canalized items, they must obtain the imports through the canalizing agency. The importer cannot directly import such canalized items. They have to place an order with the canalizing agency who shall import and supply the same. Dispatching Letter of Credit After getting the confirmation from the supplier regarding the supply of goods, the importer requests their bank to issue a Letter of Credit in favor of the supplier. Appointing clearing and forwarding agents The importer must make arrangements to appoint clearing and forwarding agents to clear the goods from the customs. Receipt of shipment device At this stage, the importer receives the shipment advice from the exporter, which states the date on which the goods are loaded on the ship. This shipment advice helps the importer to make arrangements for clearance of goods. Receipts of documents The importers bank receives the documents from the exporters bank. These documents include bill of exchange, a copy of Bill of Lading, certificate of origin, commercial invoice, consular invoice, packing list, and other relevant documents. The importer makes payment to the bank (if not paid earlier) and collects the documents. Bill of Entry Every importer is required to begin by submitting a Bill of Entry under Section 46 of the customs Act, 1962. This document certifies the description and value of goods entering the country. The Bill of Entry should be submitted as follows: The original and duplicate for customs A copy for the bank A copy for the importer A copy for making remittances Under the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), no formal Bill of Entry is required (as it is recorded electronically) but the importer is required to file a cargo declaration after prescribing particulars required for the processing of the entry for customs clearance. Bills of entry can be one of three types: Bill of Entry for home consumption: This form is used when the imported goods are to be cleared on payment of full duty. Home consumption means use within India. It is white colored and hence often called the white Bill of Entry. This form is used when the imported goods are to be cleared on payment of full duty. Home consumption means use within India. It is white colored and hence often called the white Bill of Entry. Bill of Entry for warehousing: If the imported goods are not required immediately on arrival at port, importers may store the goods in a warehouse without the payment of duty under a bond and clear them from the warehouse when required on payment of duty. This enables the deferment of payment of the customs duty until goods are actually required. This Bill of Entry is printed on yellow paper and is thus often called the yellow Bill of Entry. It is also called the into bond Bill of Entry as the bond is executed for the transfer of goods in a warehouse without paying duty. If the imported goods are not required immediately on arrival at port, importers may store the goods in a warehouse without the payment of duty under a bond and clear them from the warehouse when required on payment of duty. This enables the deferment of payment of the customs duty until goods are actually required. This Bill of Entry is printed on yellow paper and is thus often called the yellow Bill of Entry. It is also called the into bond Bill of Entry as the bond is executed for the transfer of goods in a warehouse without paying duty. Bill of Entry for ex-bond clearance: The third type is for ex-bond clearance. This is used for clearance from the warehouse on payment of duty and is printed on green paper. Extra documentation may be required if a Bill of Entry is filed without using the Electronic Data Interchange system. These are: Signed invoice Packing list Bill of Lading or delivery order/air waybill GATT declaration form Importer/CHA declaration Import license wherever necessary Letter of Credit/bank draft Insurance document Industrial license, if required Test report, in case of chemicals Ad hoc exemption order Duty Exemption Entitlement Certicate (DEEC) / Duty Entitlement Pass Book (DEPB) in original, where applicable Catalogue, technical write up, literature in case of machineries Spares or chemicals as may be applicable Separately split up value of spares, components, and machinery Certificate of Origin, if preferential rate of duty is claimed Delivery order The clearing agents obtain the delivery order from the office of the shipping company. Once the payment of freight, if any, is completed. Clearing of goods The clearing agents are required to pay the necessary dock or port trust dues and obtains the Port Trust Receipt in two copies. Thereafter, the clearing agent approach the Customs House and presents one copy of Port Trust Receipt, and two copies of Bill of Entry to the customs authorities. The customs officer endorses the Bill of Entry Forms and one copy of Bill of Entry is handed back to the importer. The importer then pays the customs duty and clears the goods. In case, the customs duty is not paid, then the goods are stored in the bonded warehouses. As and when the duty is paid, the goods are cleared from the docks. Payment to clearing and forwarding agent Once the goods have been cleared from the docks, the importer makes the necessary payment to the clearing agent for his various expenses and fees. Payment to exporter The importer is obligated to make payment to the exporter who usually draws a bill of exchange. The importer has to accept the bill and make payment. How to export goods from India? Once an exporting unit has been incorporated and an IEC and RCMC has been obtained, exporters must also get inspection certifications. According to the Export (Quality and Inspection) Act of 1963, it is critical to ensure the effective functioning of Indias export trade. The Indian Export Inspection Council will assist in obtaining inspection certificates. The following steps must be followed to successfully export products from India. Authorised Dealer (AD) Code registration AD code must be registered with any scheduled commercial bank in India before filing any export bill. The scheduled bank will generate the AD code using the IEC code. In addition, the exporter must register their IEC and AD codes with customs officials. The AD code is used to determine whether or not export proceeds have been realized. Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration Every exporter can register with their GSTIN in Part A of Form GST REG-01 on the shared platform, regardless of their turnover. Exports of goods and services are classified as zero-rated supplies under GST. If GST is paid at any point of supply against exports from India, a trader may either export without the payment of IGST under bond or letter of undertaking, or may pay the IGST and claim refund later. Product and market selection Apart from a few goods on the restricted or prohibited list, the rest of the products can be freely exported. Following a thorough examination of the trends in the export of various items from India, a proper selection of the product(s) to be exported can be made. Furthermore, after researching market size, competition, quality criteria, payment arrangements, etc., the overseas market should be chosen. Identifying buyers and providing sample products Participation in trade fairs, buyer-seller meetings, exhibitions, business-to-business (B2B) portals, and web browsing are efficient mechanisms to locate buyers. Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), and overseas chambers of commerce can also assist in securing potential target buyers. Once they have been identified, providing customized samples to meet the needs of foreign buyers can assist in the gaining of export orders. FTP 2015-2020 provides for unlimited exports of genuine trade and technical specimens of freely exportable commodities. Obtain the services of a freight forwarder The goods can be transported by sea, land, or air. The following three factors determine the freight rates: Mode of transport Port of arrival Quantity of shipment Proforma invoice (PI) Following the initial discussion with the customer, the exporter should send the buyer a proforma invoice with details such as quality, goods description, payment method, mode of shipping, packing material etc. When the buyer receives the proforma invoice, they must approve it before moving on to the next phase. Shipping instructions (SI) Depending on the nature of the goods, they must be shipped according to specified guidelines. Items which are hazardous, perishable, etc. must be shipped following various international treaties. The freight forwarder provides shipping instructions after learning about the many aspects of the shipment. Commercial invoice (CI) A commercial invoice is similar to a standard sales invoice and should be prepared when the buyer has confirmed the export order. Labelling, packing, and marking Export items must be labelled, wrapped, and packed following the buyers precise instructions. Address, package number, port and place of destination, weight, handling instructions, and other markings offer identification and information about the cargo packed. Certificate of origin While clearing customs, the customs authority seeks the certificate of origin, which establishes the products origin. The name and address of the exporter, characteristics of the goods, package number or shipping marks, and quantity, if applicable, are generally included on a certificate of origin. Shipping bill A shipping bill is generated when the commercial bill, PI, or other documents are submitted. The shipping bill must then be lodged with the appropriate port. The shipment bill can be submitted via the ICE gate website. Following receipt of the shipping bill, the assessing officer must verify the accuracy of the information supplied and the exportability of the products as per procedure. Let export order (LEO) Once the evaluating officer is satisfied, a Let Export Order will be issued. Loading of goods in container The shipping bill and LEO must be provided to the shipping agent, who will then contact the Proper Officer to request shipping permission. Customs officials supervise the loading of commodities onto the ship. Bill of Lading (BL) After the items have been loaded, the carrier vessel issues a BL. It specifies the items name, means of transportation, mode of payment, and packing content, among other things. BL will be given to the buyer of the products to claim the items when they arrive in their country. Insurance A marine insurance policy covers the danger of loss or damage to the products while they are in transit. Exporters generally arrange insurance for CIF contracts, whereas buyers obtain insurance for cost and freight (C&F) and Free On Board (FOB) contracts. Export general manifest (EGM) Within a week of the cargo sailing, shipping lines or agents submit the EGM to customs. The EGM contains a list of all goods loaded or present on the ship as it sailed away from the port and serves as the final confirmation of the goods physical export. This also aids in the approval of duty exemptions. Submission of documents to bank Following shipment, the paperwork must be presented to the bank within 21 days for forwarding to the foreign bank for payment arrangements. The following documents should be submitted: Invoice Packing List Airway Bill/Bill of Lading Bill of exchange Certificate of origin Declaration under Foreign Exchange Letter of Credit Document transmission from bank to bank The negotiating bank will examine the shipping documents and forward them to the importers banker so that they can clear the consignment. It is expected of such authorised dealers to assure receipt of export proceeds, which must be communicated to the RBI by quarterly returns. Receipt of bank certificate Once payment is received, authorised dealers will issue bank certificates to the exporter, and only with the issuance of the bank certificate will the export transaction be completed. Exporters are required to negotiate shipping documentation exclusively through approved Reserve Bank dealers. Only through this system can the RBI secure receipt of export revenues for products transported out of the country. The palpable Durga Puja fervour has not gripped India but neighbouring Bangladesh is celebrating as well. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said that the Durga Puja is not just a festival of the Hindu community but it signifies the destruction of evil forces. it is now a universal festival. Destruction of evil forces and worship of truth and beauty are the main motives of Sharadiya Durgotsob. On the occasion of Durga Puja, I wish peace, welfare and prosperity to all citizens, including Hindus, she said. Bangladesh President Md Abdul Hamid in a separate message echoed the same sentiments. The countrys Hindu community has been celebrating the puja amid huge enthusiasm and festivity with different rituals since ancient times. Durga Puja is not only a religious festival, but also a social one, he said. Notwithstanding the violence that marked the festive spirit last year, the number of pandals has increased marginally to 32,168 the country this year from 32,118 last year. As many as 241 in the Puja pandals are in Dhaka. Last year, the festival was marred by violence leaving at least seven people dead. Temples and pandals were vandalised. The authorities, this year, have put in place additional security measures. We have already taken three tiers of security measures at mandaps ahead of Durga Puja and it will continue till the end of the Puja, Dhaka Tribune quoted outgoing IGP Benazir Ahmed as saying. The festival, albeit a Hindu religious one, also marks a social occasion for friends and families to meet up. Hindus, comprise 10 per cent of Bangladeshs population. Hasina, who has come down heavily on the radical elements including members of the Hefazat-e-Islam, has repeatedly underlined the need to uphold secular principles in the country. Be it the minority Hindus or the majority Muslims, all use this opportunity to throng pandals, dance to the sounds of the dhak (a special percussion instrument) and indulge in delectable bhog during the festival, Dhaka Tribune said. Also read: Sheikh Hasina, symbol of a progressive Bangladesh, has an unfinished agenda The convulsions in Iran over the hijab protests and the killings in Irans south-eastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan are fuelling the Baloch separatist movement in south-eastern Iran. Reportedly, about 40 protesters were killed after security personnel opened fire on people in Sistan-Baluchistans capital Zahedan after Friday prayers. The crowd was protesting against the rape of a teenage Baloch girl by an officer in a police station. Baloch groups alleged that Colonel Ebrahim Khouchakzai, police commander in the Iranian port city of Chabahar, called the girl to the police station where he assaulted her. Protests by the Baloch people, who call Sistan-Baluchistan occupied territory by Iran, have spread from Zahedan to other Iranian cities. 42 were killed & 197 were injured after #Iranian security forces opened fire on #Baloch protesters in #Zahedan. Protests continue in several Iranian cities.#ZahedanMassacre #IranProtests2022 42 197 https://t.co/uMDPx9SnHV Kiyya Baloch (@KiyyaBaloch) October 2, 2022 The violence in Sistan-Baluchistan resulted in the deaths of five Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) members including two colonels and a senior intelligence official. The official Iranian news agency IRNA said: With the death on Saturday night of one of the members of the paramilitary forces, the number of martyrs among the Guards in the terrorist incident in Zahedan on Friday has increased to five. It added that 32 IRGC members were injured in the clashes. Iran-based Baloch religious scholar Maulvi Abdul Hameed has blamed Iranian security forces for the killings, alleging: The bullets have been fired into the heads and hearts of most of the worshipers, and it is clear that it was the work of snipers. He added that the police did not disperse the protesters but instead fired at them. The Free Balochistan Movement (FBM), in a statement from London, has criticised Iran for firing at peaceful Baloch protesters in Iranian-occupied Balochistan on September 30. The FBM said that Iran has deprived the Baloch people of their national identity and has placed restrictions on the culture, language and collective thinking of the Baloch people. Baloch protesters and Iranian forces continue to clash in Zahedan, Balochistan on Saturday. Gunfire and blasts can be heard in various parts of the town, while multiple Iranian helicopters are also in the air. Please Share pic.twitter.com/rbPz0W0e3g Fazila Baloch (@IFazilaBaloch) October 1, 2022 Meanwhile Iran has vowed to avenge the deaths of the IRGC personnel in the Zahedan violence. The Iran government has blamed the Jaish al-Adl, also known as the Army of Justice, for the unrest in Zahedan. Iran considers it a militant group linked to the Al-Qaeda while the Baloch say that it is fighting for an independent Balochistan. The group operates in south-eastern Iran, close to the border with Pakistan and has carried out numerous bombings in Iran. Sobdar Baloch, human rights activist and member of the FBM told India Narrative that their leader Hyrbair Marri is supporting the freedom movement of other ethnic communities in Iran like the Kurds and Ahwaz in fighting Iranian occupation. The Baloch separatists have also been holding joint protests with the Kurdish separatist groups. Meanwhile, the Kurdish Freedom Party (PAK), a Kurdish nationalist militant group has announced its support to the Baloch nationalist movement. In a statement issued from Turkey, it said: The Kurdistan Liberation Party supports the Balochi movement, adding that the people of Balochistan are fighting against ransom and crimes against the State, they are united in the war against Iran. The Baloch have been waging an armed struggle against both Pakistan and Iran for independence. Also Read: Why Chinas assets are easy targets for Pakistani separatists Baloch rebels interrogating Pak soldiers captured before helicopter crash A special exercise of the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) armed forces which kicked off in the Zhambyl region of Kazakhstan on Monday features a new formation to deal with the consequences of a biological emergency for the first time. The core of the new unit formed within the CSTO Collective Rapid Response Forces (CRRF) is made up of Russian specialists from research units of the Russian Ministry of Defence who will be involved in practical actions to counter a notional particularly dangerous infection of unknown origin. The training of CSTO forces began in Kazakhstan on September 26 but the active phase of the exercises takes place at the Matybulak training ground from October 3 to October 7 in the difficult conditions of a mountainous desert area. Military contingents of the CSTO member countries are practising preparation and conduct of joint operations on localization of armed conflict in the Central Asian region of collective security. The intergovernmental military alliance organisation of former Soviet states including Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan besides Russia has been deeply worried about the security threats emanating from the territory of Afghanistan ever since the Taliban takeover of Kabul last year. Agreeing that the situation in Afghanistan remains tense, characterized by instability and potential danger, the main CSTO joint training events are being held in the Central Asian region in 2022. Even as Moscows special military operation continues in Ukraine, more than 6,500 people and over 850 units of military and special equipment including aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles from the military contingents of the CSTO member states are involved in the ongoing combat training events. Operational groups of the Joint Staff and the CSTO Secretariat, the formation of special forces from among special units of the internal affairs bodies (police), security agencies and special services, as well as authorised bodies in the field of prevention and elimination of consequences, are participating in the emergency situation exercises. For the first time, a new formation of the CSTO armed forces will be involved in practical actions a joint division of radiation, chemical and biological protection and medical support, said CSTO Joint Staff head Colonel General Anatoly Sidorov on Monday. The opening ceremony was also attended by CSTO Deputy Secretary General Takhir Khairulloev and representatives of the armed forces of the countries participating in the exercises. The year 2022 is characterized by an aggravation of the situation in all regions of the collective security of the CSTO. Under these conditions, the CSTO Troops (Collective Forces) must remain in constant readiness to perform tasks as intended, including in the conditions of modern proxy warriors and armed conflicts with an enemy operating under a false flag, by proxy, added the Russian Army General. Host Kazakhstans First Deputy Minister of Defence and chief of its Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Marat Khusainov also stressed the growing importance of the organisation in ensuring stability and security in the region. The CSTO countries are strategic partners and allies, and the upcoming exercises will serve not only as a tool for improving the combat skills of military personnel and the coherence of collective forces but will also become an example of effective international military cooperation, achieving success in the direction of sharing experience, said Khusainov. The 200-member strong Russian military contingent consists mainly of the military personnel of the 201st military base stationed in Tajikistan as well as units of logistics brigades of the Central Military District from the Kemerovo and Samara regions. While the transfer of a majority of Russian personnel, weapons and military equipment from Tajikistan was carried out by an IL-76 aircraft from the Gissar airfield to the south of Kazakhstan, the logistic support brigades of the Central Military District, stationed in the Kemerovo and Samara regions, arrived in the area of the exercises by rail. Also Read: Weeks after deadly Russian embassy attack in Kabul, Putin warns Afghanistan remains springboard of terror Since Iran's morality police allegedly killed 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, several protests have been against the country's laws restricting women. Since the protests began two weeks ago, Iran's turbulent state has claimed the lives of 92 people. Iran Protest | AFP To draw attention to the women's rights movement in her native Iran, Iranian actor Mandana Karimi held a solitary protest on Saturday at Mumbai's iconic Bandstand. Mandana Karimi had expressed her support for the Iranian protesters by posting videos of herself cutting her hair and talking about the topic on Instagram. She posted a 17-minute long video of her solitary protest on Instagram Reels on Sunday. Instagram With a sign and a microphone in hand, Mandana went to the Bandra Bandstand and spoke to passersby for hours while describing Iran's current state of affairs. At the beginning of the video, she stands by herself near a well-known landmark while holding a sign containing information about Iran's situation. She engages in conversation with onlookers and students who might have gathered there in the video. The video's message reads: "For Iran, for my mothers tears, for my brothers broken face and heart, for sleepless nights, for freedom for life." In an interview with TOI, Mandana spoke about the motivation behind her protest, Mandana said, "On October 1, people worldwide organized a Pan Global Protest Day to stand in solidarity for Iran. One hundred fifty cities worldwide stood in protest, but I couldn't find India on that list. So, I decided to organize one in the city. The responses I received from people were disappointing. They ranged from 'I have to speak to my PR team' to 'we are just two of us, what can we do?', 'It's better to post online about whats happening back home and give interviews'', 'I have family commitments, 'I dont care, I dont live in Iran anymore,' 'I will put a story for you These were just some of the words that left me hollow and broken." Mandana also added what motivated her to show up 'solo.' She said, Iran Protest | AFP "I was reminded of Mahsa Amini. She was alone as well. She didn't know anyone in Tehran, and she was the reason for this movement. Saturday was important to show our people back home in Iran that we are with you. So, I went out alone, held Mahsas name, played Sherveens song, and explained to the few who gathered about the current situation in my country. It was overwhelming, but I felt part of something bigger," Mandana was born in Tehran and raised there. She relocated to India in 2010 to pursue a modeling career. Instagram Mandana has starred in movies such as Roy, Bhaag Johnny, and Thar. She became popular in India after her stints in reality shows Bigg Boss in 2015-16 and Lockk Up earlier this year. (To get the latest updates from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment) In a shocking incident, a 6-year-old boy was allegedly killed by two men in South Delhi's Lodhi Colony on Saturday night in what they claimed was a "sacrifice on the orders of God". According to Delhi Police, the incident took place on Saturday night at the construction site of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) headquarters in the posh Lodhi Colony area. Representational Accused were under the influence of drugs Police said the accused, Vijay Kumar (19) and Amar Kumar (22), were under the influence of drugs when they allegedly slit the boys neck and stabbed him in the head. Both the accused have been arrested. The accused hailed from Bihar and worked as cement cutters at the site. The boy lived with his parents at the site, where they also work as labourers. The family, which had reached Delhi from UPs Bareilly about a month ago, said it was busy with Durga Puja festivities when the incident took place. Representational What police & boy's parents said DCP (South) Chandan Choudhary said: "We found that the accused called the boy, who knew them, to their shed's kitchen around 10.30 pm and killed him with a weapon." Police said the accused were disoriented when they were caught as they had allegedly consumed smack/ ganja. They later allegedly said they wished to please the gods. The boy's parents said that they were looking for their missing son when they found blood coming out of the accused house. They thought the accused were slaughtering a hen but when they went in, they found them pushing their sons body under a cot. They said they boy died on the spot. police-line They were caught by other labourers, CRPF personnel The incident came to light when Delhi Police got a PCR call in the early hours of Sunday at Lodhi Colony that the throat of a 6-year-old boy was slit by two men at an under-construction building. Police personnel rushed to the spot and arrested the two accused who were already caught by other labourers and CRPF personnel on the duty. With fresh incidents of leopard attacks, the inhabitants of the valley are living under constant fear and threat with many having curtailed their movement out of their homes in the morning and evening hours. Uri, a border area and a remote town in north Kashmirs Baramulla district, some 105 kilometres away from main city Srinagar has always been in the news for cross-border shelling but this time it has become a hotspot of human-animal conflict. The Line of Control (LoC) is just five kilometres away from the main town Uri. Unsplash Five minors killed in leopard attacks In June, three minors were killed in a leopard attack in different areas of Uri while in September two more minors fell prey. On September 16, a girl child Munzia Beigh of Bijhama, Uri was killed by the leopard. Her body was recovered from a nearby forest area late in the night on the same day. On September 22, another child Ali Hussain of Dhani Syedan, Uri was killed by the leopard and his body was retrieved after several hours of search from the forest area. In the third incident that took place in June only, a 12-year-old girl Rutba Manzoor was mauled to death by a man-eater leopard in Batangi, Boniyar area of Uri. Later, it was followed by 15-year-old Munir Ahmed of Choolan Kalsan and 13-year-old Shahid Ahmad of Trikanjan, Boniyar who were similarly put to death. People seek action against attacks Abbas Hussain, father of Ali, told Indiatimes that the government has been acting as a mute spectator. On the each passing day, we are losing our loved ones and there is no concrete action from the government side yet. The man-eater leopards are moving freely and the government has completely failed to kill or capture them, he said. Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, father of Rutba said that they havent received any compensation from the government yet. Though we have submitted all the documents to the local district administration as sought but we havent been given anything. We are waiting for their response, if they don't provide us any compensation will drag them to the court, he said. Tariq Hashim, a local of Kamalkote village of Uri blamed the wildlife department for failing to hold the awareness programs among the people especially those living in Behaks- a makeshift shelter that shepherds build closer to hilly grasslands where their sheep graze in summers. When people living near the forest areas go to attend nature's call, they come out of their kothas and become the victims of the wild animals. I believe that the wildlife department should conduct awareness camps on how to stay safe in such areas, he said. Unsplash Stopped venturing out Hashim also pointed out that why can't the government build toilet facilities for these people under its Swachh Bharat Mission. These people usually go to nearby forests or bushes to relieve themselves. But unfortunately they fall prey to leopards, he said. Shafqat Aziz Banday, a resident of Salamabad area of Uri said that they have stopped venturing out in the morning and evening hours. We have spotted leopards in our area a number of times and we cant put our lives at risk. Many people have also stopped going to the mosque in the morning and evening hours. The fresh cases have triggered more panic among the residents, he said. It looks like the government is having a soft corner towards private hunters who go into the forests to hunt down the wild species. But it creates panic among other animals too, forcing them to head towards the residential areas or villages, said Irfan Ahmad, a local of Trikanjan, Boniyar. We request the government to put a ban on hunting through licensed guns for a time being which may help in decreasing the human-animal conflict, he added. Authorities ask locals to take precautions Regional Wildlife Warden Kashmir, Rashid Naqash said that people living close to the forest area need to take precautions while venturing out during mornings and evenings. Children and women need to be extra cautious and dont need to come out without being accompanied by the elders, Naqash said. Rest, we are monitoring the situation closely, he said. Meanwhile, the Department of Wildlife Protection issued an advisory recently asking locals not to move alone in the forest areas. Women and children have been advised to move in groups. It reads that people of the forest area should avoid going to forests, especially during mornings and evenings as it is peak activity time for the leopards. Few days back, Chief Wildlife Warden J&K also ordered shoot-at-sight orders to eliminate the man-eater leopard that killed two minors in Uri recently. In July, a man-eater leopard was also shot dead in the Uri area which mauled three teenagers. Unsplash 234 killed from 2006 to 2022 Human-animal conflicts in Kashmir have resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the past few years. Data revealed that from 2006 to 2022, 234 people lost their lives and 2,918 received injuries in animal attacks. The number of deaths has particularly gone up between 2011 and 2020. In 2018, eight persons were mauled to death, while it was 11 the following year. The next two years saw five and nine deaths, respectively. Forests cover over 20 per cent of Jammu and Kashmirs total land area. There are 35 conservation reserves, 14 wildlife sanctuaries and five national parks within the states 15,912 sq km network of protected areas. While most people would agree that mosquitoes only bring death and disease to humanity, scientists have managed to use the deadly insect to deliver vaccines. A trial to deliver vaccines to people via mosquitoes was underway in United Kingdom, findings published in Science Translational Medicine revealed. The paper claims that scientists genetically modified parasites to deliver malaria vaccines through mosquito bites. No, this is not a joke. If you've always associated mosquitoes with illness and itching, this might change your understanding of the insects. Unsplash Using mosquitoes as vaccine delivery While the trial images and propositions sound preposterous, such methods may be extremely useful in places where diseases are rampant and vaccines not widely available. It appears that the participants were bit by mosquitoes hundreds of times. To get the desired effect, scientists loaded mosquitoes with genetically modified parasites known as Plasmodium falciparum. Unsplash While scientists have tried to do the same in the past, this marks the first time that CRISPR has been used to turn mosquitoes into a vaccine delivery service. In conversation with NPR, scientists described these mosquitoes as 1,000 small flying syringes. Also read: Mosquitoes Sniff Out Humans Even Without Smell Receptors, Finds Study Pictures from the report show a participant's arm covered completely in welts from mosquito bites. The only issue with this method, scientists say, is the effectiveness of such vaccines. The study's results paint a mixed picture. 14 of 26 participants that were exposed to malaria ended up catching it. This implies that the system is about 50% effective. Is it a complete failure? No! With some improvements in the method, scientists could achieve a lot. And scientists don't want to deploy an army of vaccine-carrying mosquitoes. Instead, they want to use the mosquitoes to deliver vaccines in a more controlled way. Unsplash Also read: What If We Used Mosquitoes To Vaccinate People? Japan Actually Did For starters, releasing an army of mosquitoes would come with questions about medical consent and ethics. People who get bit by the mosquito would may or may not have consented to being inoculated. Regardless, it's still a fantastic proposition to turn the tide against malaria and using mosquitoes as vaccine carriers. What do you think about the potential of mosquitoes? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com. References Hawkins, J. (2022, October 2). Scientists tricked mosquitoes into delivering vaccines to humans. BGR. Retrieved October 3, 2022, from https://bgr.com/science/scientists-tricked-mosquitoes-into-delivering-vaccines-to-humans/ Barnhart, M. (2022, September 21). A box of 200 mosquitoes did the vaccinating in this malaria trial. Thats not a joke! NPR.org. Retrieved October 3, 2022, from https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2022/09/21/1112727841/a-box-of-200-mosquitoes-did-the-vaccinating-in-this-malaria-trial-thats-not-a-jo The Bombay High Court's Aurangabad Bench has ruled that a woman who chooses to leave her husband's residence while the divorce is pending surrenders the right to later seek "right to residence" in the same place, even if her appeal of the divorce is still pending under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. The ruling of a lower court granting the woman's full right to residence along with the use of the bath, toilet, electricity, etc. in their home was canceled by a bench of Justice Sandipkumar C More while supporting the woman's in-laws' arguments in the case. Mirror In February 2018, Additional Sessions Judge Udgir Court issued an order granting their former daughter-in-law Sakshi Bondre the right to reside there. Umakant H. Bondre and his wife Shobha, both of Udgir, Latur, filed a motion to overturn this decision. She received a divorce from Suraj Bondre, her husband. The couple wed in June 2015, but a year later, after disagreements, she moved out and began living with her parents. Representational Image/Shutterstock Later, in November 2017, an Udgir magistrate granted her Rs 2,000 per month in interim maintenance and an additional Rs 1,500 per month to help her find another accommodation. The elder Bondre couple questioned the lower court's rulings in their petition, especially because Sakshi Bondre's appeal of the divorce, which was granted in July 2018, was still pending before the high court, and the home was registered in the name of her father-in-law, Umakant H. Bondre. According to Justice More's decision, a woman is only granted the right to residence under Section 17 of the DV Act if she stays in the marital home she lived in with her husband before their divorce. Pexels As a result, Sakshi Bondre could not rely on the earlier residence order when her marriage was ended by a divorce decree issued by the relevant court, especially as she had already moved out of their joint home four years ago. "Under the circumstances, she is not even entitled to the relief of restraining possession since she does not own the shared household," the judge noted. According to Sakshi Bondre's lawyers, the divorce order was contested in an appeal she filed because it was obtained fraudulently, and the court actively heard the plea. Sakshi Bondre's claims were rejected by Justice More, who pointed out that she had left her marital residence long before the divorce and had not shown any evidence to back up her claim that her husband or in-laws had forcibly evicted her. Justice More concluded that the pending status of her appeal would not prevent her in-laws from filing lawsuits against the lower court rulings granting her the right to reside. The court has allowed Sakshi Bondre to seek alternative remedies from her ex-husband, such as claiming rent for a rental property rather than residing in his house. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. Working with the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian Coast Guard, and Transport Canada, the federal government will offer the affected provinces: equipment and personnel to assist with tree and debris removal; crews to help in restoring roads and bridges; aerial imagery of the devasted areas; incident management teams; air assets such as helicopters to support response efforts; and support to search and rescue efforts. "Our thoughts are with all Canadians affected by Hurricane Fiona, as well as with the first responders and volunteers who are working tirelessly to help those in need, said Blair in a statement. As a government, we are united in our resolve to be there for the people and communities that have been impacted and we will continue to work in close collaboration with our provincial and municipal partners. Together, we will get through this." In addition to the support above, the federal government has also established a donation-matching program with the Canadian Red Cross, wherein the government will match donations made by Canadians and corporations for the next 30 days beginning September 25. The funds will go to the Canadian Red Crosss Hurricane Fiona in Canada Appeal, supporting the organizations emergency services for those affected by Fiona. Read more: Trudeau visits N.L. town devastated by Fiona, says Ottawa 'will be there' to help During his tour of the affected communities, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that Ottawa would match the $10 million Canadians have donated to the Canadian Red Cross. And while new funding was not announced, the leader did confirm that the government would extend the GST filing deadline for affected companies. Backed by a consortium of institutional investors led by The Carlyle Group and T&D Insurance Group, Fortitude Re used to be known as DSA Re when it was majority owned by AIG. Neches, whose previous roles include AIGs corporate development head, was involved in the creation of Fortitude Re. The new CEO made the switch from Carlyle where he was managing director of Carlyle Insurance Solutions. That post saw Neches collaborate with senior management at Fortitude Re in building the multi-line reinsurer. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to work even more closely with Fortitude Res talented management team, he commented. With nearly US$7 billion in capital, the trust of our counterparties whose nearly five million policies we administer, and the support of our strategic partners at Carlyle and T&D and of our great investors, Fortitude Re is uniquely positioned to help our clients achieve their risk, capital, and growth ambitions. Having been part of Fortitude Res journey from day one, I am deeply familiar with the business, its people, and their dedication to serving our clients and their policyholders. My commitment to all our stakeholders is that we will continue to work tirelessly to achieve Fortitude Res immense potential as partner of choice for the global insurance industry. Tomoyasu Isobe, representative director and president at T&D United Capital, cited Neches significant involvement and contribution to Fortitude Re from its establishment. We believe he is the ideal candidate to deliver on the potential we see in the years ahead, asserted Isobe. James has been a strong partner during the creation and growth of Fortitude Re, and we thank him for his tremendous efforts. Meanwhile Bracken said he was proud of what Fortitude Re had accomplished, and also expressed gratitude to the board, investors, and his ex-colleagues. The former chief will be available to assist in the leadership transition. As always in tricky markets, other insurance providers have stepped up to the plate. According to Stephanie Bozzuto, co-founder of Cannabis Connect Insurance Services, an Acrisure partner, a one stop brokerage connecting cannabis business owners to custom built programs the market today is dominated by MGAs, MGUs, program administrators, and captive insurance companies, all of whom are finding creative ways to write these tricky exposures. There are only a few admitted carriers that are writing cannabis insurance at this time, said Bozzuto. A lot of them are waiting for federal legalization, and once we see that, I think well start seeing the top A++ admitted carriers getting involved. Unfortunately, I dont see that happening within the next two years there are just so many political variables that we just dont know at this point. But I do think that many insurers are interested, and Im very excited for when that day comes. Read next: McNeil, CANY launch cannabis industry safety group California-based Bozzuto is a third-generation broker and has been working in insurance for 15 years, with a focus on cannabis insurance for almost seven years. Her father started Bozzuto & Associates Insurance Services in 1978, and Cannabis Connect Insurance Services was launched as a specialty division of the family agency in 2016. The cannabis industry was something weve always been passionate about as a family for medicinal purposes, and we saw how the industry and the product had a bad reputation. This was an industry we wanted to advocate for, Bozzuto told Insurance Business. When cannabis was legal for medicinal purposes only, I was able to talk to a few dispensaries and look at their insurance policies, and I quickly realized they were being treated very lowbrow. Some policies had total cannabis exclusions, so they were basically buying a piece of paper that covered nothing. It was a very underserved industry, and knowing where things were headed with recreational legalization, we wanted to treat these businesses with the respect and attention they deserved. We wanted to be an ethical and responsible insurance provider for this emerging industry, like we had been for the last 40 years at Bozzuto & Associates Insurance Services. With such a simple but meaningful value proposition, Cannabis Connect Insurance Services has gone from strength to strength since 2016, with much of its new business success down to word of mouth from clients who were happy to receive the same levels of customer service offered to other non-cannabis businesses. Cannabis businesses have similar insurance requirements to non-cannabis businesses. Typically, they need commercial property insurance, workers compensation, general liability, product liability, commercial auto if they have a driving exposure, and many states also require them to hold a cannabis bond. Read more: Cannabis D&O insurance: MGU brings new solution to the US market Interestingly, their risk profiles are also very similar to mainstream business exposures, according to Bozzuto, with some of the key issues being theft, fire, and driving exposures. The main difference is that theyre dealing with a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act. We see a lot of commercial auto claims because many of these entities have driving exposures, including cannabis delivery, cannabis distribution, even cannabis testing - because testing labs often drive a far distance to retrieve samples, said Bozzuto. Weve also seen a lot of property theft claims that have happened in high-end facilities and locations throughout the US - although clients typically like to keep these claims hush hush. Those theft claims are impacting clients across the board, whether theyre in retail, cultivation, or distribution but its more frequent in retail. As for cultivators, weve seen small fire claims from light bulbs becoming loose and falling into growing trays. Also, if smoke gets into the HVAC system and causes pollution in the bloom rooms, that can cause huge losses. For any retail agent or broker looking to get into this space, Bozzuto said they should learn everything they can about the industry. Get involved, she said. Join the National Cannabis Industry Association, or a similar state association, and educate yourself, meet the experts, and really become an advocate for your clients. Through the associations, weve been involved in pushing to provide better regulations for our clients, were at the table with them, fighting for them, and were out there in the insurance market trying to get better coverage and fairer pricing for them. Weve always wanted to be on their team, and I think it shows. The cannabis industry is here to stay. Its already a huge industry and its growing. But those without access to company-sponsored coverage need to shop around for their own health plan and cover the full cost of the premium, which raises the question where can they find the best affordable health insurance policies? Read more: Top health insurance providers for self-employed Americans How does health insurance work in the US? Health insurance is a policy designed to help offset the costs of medical treatment by covering a portion of the professional and hospital fees incurred. According to the governments health insurance exchange website HealthCare.gov, this type of coverage comes in several forms aimed at meeting the varying needs of policyholders. These are: Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): This is a managed care plan where services are covered only if the doctors, specialists, or hospitals are in the plans network except in cases of emergency. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): This type of health insurance plan often limits coverage to care from doctors who work for or are contracted with the HMO. Policies generally do not cover out-of-network care except in an emergency. Plans may likewise require that a policyholder live or work in its service area to be eligible for coverage. HMOs typically provide integrated care and focus on prevention and wellness. Point of Service (POS): In this kind of plan, policyholders pay less if they access doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers belonging to the plans network. POS coverage also requires the insured to get a referral from their primary care doctor for them to see a specialist. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): This health plan allows policyholders to pay less for healthcare if they choose to get treatment from providers in the plans network. However, they can also access doctors, hospitals, and providers outside of the network without a referral for an additional cost. Health insurance plans are also offered in four categories based on how the costs are split between the policyholder and the insurer. These are Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, which are also referred to as the metal tiers. Heres how the costs are split, according to HealthCare.gov. Bronze 60% health insurer, 40% policyholder Silver 70% health insurer, 30% policyholder Gold 80% health insurer, 20% policyholder Platinum 90% health insurer, 10% policyholder The agency noted, however, that the category [has] nothing to do with [the] quality of care. Read more: Revealed 10 largest health insurance providers in the US What does health insurance cover? One of the changes the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has implemented in the countrys healthcare system is the standardization of insurance plan benefits. Prior to this, the benefits offered by insurance companies varied significantly between policies. Currently, US health insurance plans are required to cover a list of 10 essential health benefits, consisting of: Ambulatory patient services Emergency services Hospitalization Pregnancy, maternity, and newborn care Mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment Prescription drugs Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices Laboratory services Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management Pediatric services, including oral and vision care Birth control and breastfeeding coverage are also required benefits. Dental and eye care coverage for adults, meanwhile, are not considered essential benefits but are available as optional add-ons, along with medical management programs. Read more: Top 10 health insurance companies in the US What factors impact the cost of health insurance? According to HealthCare.gov, insurance companies can only account for five factors when determining premiums under the healthcare law. These are: Age: Premiums can be up to three times higher for older people than for younger ones. Location: Differences in competition, state, local regulations, and cost of living also impact health insurance rates. Tobacco use: Insurers can charge tobacco users up to 50% more than those who do not smoke. Individual vs. family enrollment: Insurance providers can also charge more for a plan that also covers a spouse and dependents. Plan category: The different plan categories Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum also have an effect on premium prices. The government website noted that states can limit how much impact these factors have on insurance rates but prohibited them from using medical history and gender in calculating premiums. Insurance companies cant charge women and men different prices for the same plan, HealthCare.gov explained. They also cant take your current health or medical history into account. All health plans must cover treatment for pre-existing conditions from the day coverage starts. Read more: Millennials find health insurance too expensive: Survey Where can you find the least expensive health insurance plans? Even if employer-sponsored coverage is not an option, there are several ways for many Americans to avail of cheap health insurance plans, according to personal fintech company MoneyGeek. Here are some of them: 1. Medicaid Medicaid is the most affordable choice, according to the firm, but applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, which vary depending on the state they live in. The government-funded program offers free or affordable health insurance coverage to low-income individuals and families. Currently, 38 states allow income to be the sole basis of qualification. The cut-off is usually 133% of the federal poverty level (FPL), which is about $17,774 per person. A bigger household means a higher income limit. The income cut-off is the same for almost all 38 states, except Alaska and Hawaii. The table below from MoneyGeek details the Medicaid cut-off limit for each household size. Household size Income-level cut-off Alaska cut-off Hawaii cut-off 1 $17,774 $22,204 $20,452 2 $24,040 $30,043 $27,655 3 $30,305 $37,881 $34,859 4 $36,570 $45,719 $42,062 5 $42,835 $53,558 $49,266 6 $49,100 $61,396 $56,470 7 $55,366 $69,235 $63,673 8 $61,631 $77,073 $70,877 Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, meanwhile, impose additional eligibility criteria, including child guardianship or being above 65-years old. Medicaid plan holders have access to free emergency care, family planning, and child healthcare. Depending on their state and income levels, they may also have copays for doctor visits, inpatient hospital care, and prescription medication. Read more: Medicaid expansion ballot campaigns near signature threshold 2. Health insurance marketplace For many low-income Americans, their states health insurance marketplace is another good place to start searching for a policy that fits their needs. Here, they can compare plans for coverage and affordability, and get answers to any questions or clarifications they have about healthcare insurance. This is also where they can find out if they qualify for Medicaid, tax credits, or lower premiums. Parents can enroll their kids in the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) through the marketplace as well. Individuals can sign up for a health insurance plan during an open enrollment period, which typically runs from November 1 through January 15. But even if this period has ended, they may still be able to secure coverage if they have experienced a qualifying life event, including getting married, having a baby, and losing their previous insurance. Coverage begins about two to six weeks after enrollment. 3. Medicare For US citizens and permanent residents 65 and older, they can avail of the cheapest health insurance through another government-funded program, called Medicare. The program is also accessible to younger people with certain disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or permanent kidney failure that requires dialysis or a transplant. Medicare consists of four parts: Medicare Part A (hospital insurance): This covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. Medicare Part B (medical insurance): This pays out for certain doctors services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. Medicare Part C: Now called the Medicare Advantage Plan, this combines all benefits and services under Parts A and B in one plan. Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage): This helps cover the cost of prescription medication, including most recommended shots or vaccines. The first two parts are offered through the government, while the last two can be purchased through private insurance providers. Read more: Medicare, private insurers eyed to cover diabetes prevention programs 4. Short-term health insurance plans Short-term health insurance plans are designed to fill temporary coverage gaps and provide protection for up to one year, so the benefits are not as comprehensive as policies in the marketplace. Short-term plans can also be canceled anytime without the need to pay penalty fees. Because these are not regulated by the government, the benefits, coverage limits, exclusions, and premiums vary widely, depending on the health insurance provider. Coverage typically includes physician visits, and emergency and preventative care. Some plans may also cover prescription drugs. Pre-existing medical conditions are not covered. Applicants may also be required to complete a medical questionnaire to assist the insurance carrier in determining if they should be approved for coverage. Specialty Underwriting Insurance Solutions (SUIS), a division of Specialty Program Group, has announced the launch of a new product for renter-occupied housing units. The new product, HABX, is targeted at real estate owners and real estate investment trusts that own large portfolios of apartment units. The number of renter-occupied housing units has grown steadily over the past five years and the pace is increasing rapidly, said Derek Schiavone, president of SUIS. Owners interested in a higher level of coverage are finding that many excess carriers are requiring higher attachments on habitational business. HABX solves this important piece of the insurance puzzle for the largest, most respected habitational owners in the US. The Oregon State Hospital is facing a $54,000 fine for failing to investigate workplace injuries. The citation, brought by the states Occupational Safety and Health Administration, alleges that from January 2021 to June 2022 the hospital didnt investigate every time workers suffered an injury or illness that caused them to miss work, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported. The hospital didnt look at ways to prevent future injuries and illness from occurring, according to the citation. The state hospital is a secure psychiatric facility that largely houses people charged with crimes, but who need mental health treatment before their cases can proceed. In recent years, it has struggled to admit people within the required seven days of being ordered into their care. Last year, the hospital documented over 300 cases that resulted in thousands of hours away from work, according to the citation. Oregon OSHA also said about 40% of the injury and illness cases in 2022 were the result of workplace violence and most of those cases werent investigated. The Oregon State Hospital, like other hospitals, has struggled with staffing throughout the pandemic. At times, the National Guard has been called in to help. An unnamed hospital spokesperson says they plan to pay the fine and are working to address the issues. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Commercial Lines Business Insurance Oregon After watching days of testimony that included the parents of slain children breaking down on the witness stand, a Connecticut jury soon will have the difficult task of coming up with a dollar amount that conspiracy theorist Alex Jones should pay for promoting the idea that the Sandy Hook school shooting was a hoax. A judge last year found Jones and his company, Free Speech Systems, liable by default for defaming and inflicting emotional distress on the plaintiffs _ eight families who lost loved ones in the 2012 massacre and an FBI agent who was among the first responders. The jury of three men and three women is now charged with determining damages. One by one, family members have taken the stand to talk about the horrors of losing a loved one, and how that has been compounded by a decade of harassment, fear and pain inflicted by those who believed the lie that the shooting never happened. In often emotional testimony, they have detailed death and rape threats, mail from conspiracy theorists that included photos of dead children and in-person confrontations with people telling them their children or wives or mothers never existed. At one point, a juror broke into tears and was comforted by another member of the panel. Robbie Parker, who gave a live statement to the media about his daughter Emilie the day after she was murdered, took the stand Wednesday, following testimony from his wife Alissa. Robbie Parker had been captured on camera cracking a nervous smile as he approached the microphone the day after the shooting, after his father made a little joke of encouragement, referring to him by the name of the school mascot he once portrayed. It was a moment Jones pounced on to publicly call him a crisis actor on his Infowars show. Parker said soon after that, he began getting hateful comments on social media. What was just this littering of comments, by Tuesday (four days after the shooting) became just a burning trash pile, he said. Alissa Parker cried while describing the abuse they faced in the days after the shooting because of Jones comments. She said they decided to have a closed casket funeral out of fear that someone would take a photo of their daughters body and use it to further the conspiracy theories. Just the things they were saying about my sweet daughter, she said through tears. Things like, `Watch your back, were watching you and were coming after you and your daughter. Just horrible things. They called Emilie a whore, just the most horrific things you could ever imagine. How jurors arrive at a dollar figure is cloaked in secrecy. Although given some basic instructions, there are no specific ones from the judge on how exactly to arrive at dollar figures. Jurors, however, have been shown evidence and heard testimony on the millions of dollars Jones and his company have made over the years. Jones lawyer, Norman Pattis, is trying to limit any damages the jury awards. In cross examining witnesses, he has tried to show that Jones wasnt directly linked to many instances of harassment and threats, and he has accused the victims relatives of exaggerating the harm the lies caused them. Last week, Jones got into a heated exchange with plaintiffs attorney Christopher Mattei, accusing the lawyer of ambulance chasing and saying he was done apologizing for claiming the shooting was staged. In recent years, Jones has acknowledged the massacre happened, but says the families of victims are being used to push a gun-control and anti-free speech agenda. Outside the courthouse and on his Infowars show, Jones has referred to the proceedings as a show trial and a kangaroo court and called Judge Barbara Bellis a tyrant, posting an image of her with lasers shooting from her eyes. Jones is expected to retake the stand next week. Closing arguments and jury deliberations are expected to follow soon afterward. In a similar trial last month in Austin, Texas, home to Jones and Infowars, a jury ordered Jones to pay nearly $50 million in damages to the parents of one of the children killed in the shooting, because of the hoax lies. A third such trial in Texas involving two other parents is expected to begin near the end of the year. Topics Lawsuits A New York doctor last week pled guilty to performing unnecessary surgeries as part of a scheme by doctors and lawyers to obtain insurance reimbursements and other compensation from fraudulent trip-and-fall accidents, according to federal prosecutors. A litigation funding company previously pled guilty to involvement in the same scheme. U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams announced that Sady Ribeiro, a New York-licensed pain management doctor and surgeon, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the scheme. Williams said Adrian Alexander, the owner of a litigation funding company who was also involved in the trip-and-fall fraud scheme, previously pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on August 30, 2022. As alleged, Sady Ribeiro abused his professional license and position of trust by performing medically unnecessary surgeries to increase the value of fraudulent trip-and-fall lawsuits. In carrying out the scheme, Adrian Alexander, who funded many of the fraudulent lawsuits, Sady Ribeiro, and their co-conspirators preyed upon the most vulnerable members of society in order to enrich themselves, Williams stated. According to the indictment, during the course of the fraud scheme, the participants attempted to defraud insurers and property owners of more than $31 million. The scheme as outlined by prosecutors involved the participants recruiting more than 400 individuals to stage or falsely claim to have suffered trip-and-fall accidents at particular locations throughout the New York City area, when in fact, they had suffered no such accidents. It was also common for scheme participants to recruit patients from homeless shelters in New York City. Eventually, at the direction of the lawyers who filed the fraudulent lawsuits on their behalf, scheme participants began to stage trip-and-fall accidents by going to a location and deliberately falling. Common accident sites used during the fraud scheme included cellar doors, cracks in concrete sidewalks, and potholes, prosecutors said. The patients would then be referred to specific attorneys who would file personal injury lawsuits against the owners of the accident sites and/or their insurance companies, the indictment says. The patients were also instructed to receive ongoing treatment from certain chiropractors and doctors, including Ribeiro, and they were told to undergo surgery. As an incentive to getting surgery, the recruited patients were paid $1,000 and $1,500 after they completed surgery. According to the indictment, Ribeiro performed back surgeries, among other medical procedures, on nearly 200 patients, and paid them cash kickbacks in exchange for patient referrals. As part of his plea agreement, Ribeiro agreed to forfeit $513,005 to the government and to make restitution in the amount of $3,928,133, according to officials. As part of his plea agreement, Alexander agreed to forfeit $659,001 to the government and to make restitution in the amount of $3,928,133. Ribeiro is scheduled to be sentenced on January 5, 2023. Alexander is scheduled to be sentenced on November 30, 2022. Topics Fraud New York Assicurazioni Generali SpA is exploring a deal with US investment firm Guggenheim Partners to bolster its asset management business, according to people familiar with the matter. Italys biggest insurer has held informal talks on options ranging from a full acquisition of Guggenheims asset management business to a partnership or strategic investment, the people said, asking not to be identified as the discussions are private. Generali has considered selling its Banca Generali unit to Mediobanca SpA among options to help finance a potential deal, some of the people said. There arent any live talks now, they added. The considerations are at an early stage, talks have been on-and-off again and may not lead to a transaction, according to the people. Generali could also end up pursuing another asset management target in the US, some of the people said. Banca Generali shares were suspended limit up in Milan after gaining 6.2%, while Mediobanca rose by a similar amount. Generali gained 1.4% after the Bloomberg report. From time to time, we have inquiries and even discussions with third parties who want to consider joint ventures or who seek to make capital investments in our firm, Guggenheim spokesman Gerard Carney said. We do not comment on these conversations which occur routinely, and often more than one at a time. Generali, which earlier declined to comment, said that it was asked to clarify its position by Consob, the Italian markets regulator. The firm is assessing potential M&A opportunities on a continuous basis, it said, adding that to date no decision has been made to proceed with any such transaction. A spokesperson for Mediobanca, the insurers biggest shareholder, declined to comment. Generali Chief Executive Officer Philippe Donnet is seeking expansion of the asset management arm, which accounts for less than 12% of group profits, as part of his latest strategic plan. Since 2017, the insurer has bought Frances Sycomore Asset Management to boost its offering of environmental and socially responsible funds and Lumyna, a London-based alternative asset management unit of Bank of America. Generali asset and wealth management head Carlo Trabattoni said earlier this year that the firm is seeking to purchase firms specialized in US credit markets and renewable energy having as much as 70 billion euros ($68 billion) of assets under management. A deal with Guggenheim would be much bigger than that. The firm, which traces its roots back to lead and silver mining in Colorado in the late 1880s, manages more than $228 billion of assets across fixed income, equity and alternative strategies as of the end of June, according to its website. Generali Investments managed about 575 billion euros at the end of 2021. It operates through 1,200 asset managers and specialists in more than 20 countries. The unit has added more than 100 billion euros of assets from third parties in the last 3 years. Generali is seeking annual revenue growth of more than 7% for the unit over the next couple of years. With assistance from Jan-Henrik Forster Photograph: An Assicurazioni Generali SpA logo sits above an entrance to its offices in Rome, Italy, on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Photo credit: Alessia Pierdomenico/Bloomberg Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. Topics USA Generali Life Assurance (Thailand) Plc. Singapore Telecommunications said on Monday it was assessing the potential cost of a massive cyber-security breach at its Optus arm, Australias second-largest telco, 12 days ago. In its second comment on the breach of private data from 10 million accounts, Singtel sought to clarify reports it could face a huge compensation bill. It said it had not received any legal notice of a class action lawsuit but has engaged lawyers to advise it. Australian Police Aim to Protect 10,000 Optus Customers After Cyber Attack Any class action will be vigorously defended, if commenced, Singtel said in a statement. The Australian government has blamed Optus for the breach, which affected the equivalent of 40% of Australias population, saying customers were exposed to financial crime and pressing the company to do more to notify those affected. Last week, an unidentified person posted online that they had released personal details of 10,000 Optus customers. Singtel is continuing to evaluate the potential financial implications arising from this matter and any material development will be disclosed to the market on a timely basis, the company said. At least two major law firms, Slater & Gordon and Maurice Blackburn, have said they are investigating a possible class action against Optus to seek compensation for people affected by the breach. Optus on Monday said it had appointed Deloitte to run an independent external review of the cyber attack. While our overwhelming focus remains on protecting our customers and minimizing the harm that might come from the theft of their information, we are determined to find out what went wrong, Optus Chief Executive Officer Kelly Bayer Rosmarin said in a statement released by Singtel. Of the 10 million accounts that were breached, 2.1 million customers had had an identity document number exposed where they may need to take action to replace documents, she said in a video message on the companys web site late on Monday. She said the 10,000 people whose data had briefly been released online had all been informed by the company, and it was working closely with the police to protect them. To our knowledge, there is no other release of the information of the customers that have been exposed, Bayer Rosmarin said. In comments to the Sydney Morning Herald, she said it was too early to describe the nature of the attack, which Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil described as basic rather than sophisticated. There has been no review and no report on the nature of what has occurred, Bayer Rosmarin was quoted as telling the newspaper. (Reporting by Sonali Paul; editing by Gerry Doyle) Topics Cyber Australia Suspected Chinese hackers tampered with widely used software distributed by a small Canadian customer service company, another example of a supply chain compromise made infamous by the hack on U.S. networking company SolarWinds. U.S. cyber-security firm CrowdStrike said in a blog post it had discovered malicious software being distributed by Vancouver-based Comm100, which provides customer service products, such as chat bots and social media management tools, to a range of clients around the globe. The scope and scale of the hack was not immediately clear. In a message, Comm100 said it had fixed its software earlier Thursday and that more details would soon be forthcoming. The company did not immediately respond to follow-up requests for information. CrowdStrike researchers believe the malicious software was in circulation for a couple of days but would not say how many companies had been affected, divulging only that entities across a range of industries were hit. A person familiar with the matter cited a dozen known victims, although the actual figure could be much higher. Comm100 on its website said it had more than 15,000 customers in some 80 countries. CrowdStrike executive Adam Meyers said in a telephone interview that the hackers were suspected to be Chinese, citing their patterns of behavior, language in the code, and the fact that one victim had repeatedly been targeted by Chinese hackers in the past. The Chinese government rejected the claim. In an email, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said officials in Beijing firmly oppose and crack down on all forms of cyber hacking in accordance with the law and that the United States has been loudly active in fabricating and spreading lies about so-called Chinese hackers.' Supply chain compromises which work by tampering with widely used enterprise software to hack its clients downstream have been of increasing concern since alleged Russian hackers broke into Texas IT management firm SolarWinds Corp. and used it as a springboard to hack U.S. government agencies and a host of private firms. Meyers, whose firm was among those that responded to the SolarWinds hack, said the Comm100 find was a reminder that other nations used the same techniques. China is engaging in supply chain attacks, he said. (Reporting by Raphael Satter and Christopher Bing; Editing by Chris Sanders, Jonathan Oatis and Richard Chang) Topics Cyber China This edition of International People Moves details appointments at re/insurers Canopius Group and International General Insurance Holdings Ltd. as well as the broker Howden. A summary of these new hires follows here. Canopius Names QBEs Corrigan as Group Head of Change Canopius Group, a global specialty re/insurer, announced the appointment of Tracey Corrigan to the role of group head of change, effective Oct. 3, 2022. With overall responsibility for the group wide change portfolio, program and project management delivery, and operational excellence capability, Corrigan will be instrumental in driving Canopius long-term strategic aims across all geographies. Strengthening the operating model and measuring the impact of change are further key aspects of Traceys role, to future proof the rapidly expanding business and ensure sustainable growth. Corrigan is based in London and reports to Group COO Kate Roy. She brings more than 30 years of experience in operations management and business modernization to Canopius. She joins from QBE where she held the position of business transformation leader. Prior to this she was at AIG, where since 1992 she held several key positions, most recently commercial operations executive. With substantial growth opportunities groupwide and with many change projects needed to capitalise on that, it is key to expand our operational leadership capability to oversee the entire process of how we change as a business, said Roy in a statement. Traceys international experience as a transformation leader, combined with a proven track record of successfully developing and executing operational strategies globally and regionally made her the ideal candidate. I look forward to working with her to facilitate the changes necessary to continually realise our strategic ambitions, both now and for the future, Roy added. Canopius is a global specialty re/insurer with underwriting operations in Australia, Bermuda, China, Singapore, the UK and U.S. It underwrites through Lloyds Syndicates 4444 (managed by Canopius Managing Agents Ltd.), a U.S. surplus lines insurer, Canopius US Insurance Inc., and Canopius Reinsurance Ltd, a Bermuda based Class 4 reinsurer. *** Howden Taps AXA XLs Lutgen as Chief Operations Officer, Europe Howden, the London-based international insurance broker, announced the appointment of Philippe Lutgen as chief operations officer for Europe, effective immediately. Lutgen will report to Luigi Sturani, CEO, Howden Europe and will be based in London. In the newly formed role, Lutgen will lead operations across the continent (excluding the UK), supporting on the development and execution of Howdens ambitious growth strategy, while driving successful integration as it establishes and consolidates its European platform. With over 30 years experience working across the global insurance and reinsurance industry, Lutgen brings considerable expertise and a strong track record in creating and running large international operations. He joins from AXA XL where he spent the previous 20 years, most recently as chief operations officer for Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Lutgen joins at a considerable time of growth for Howden Europe, following its recent acquisitions of Theoreme and C.R.F Conseils in France and, earlier this year, Assiteca in Italy, as the broker continues to expand its platform across the continent. *** IGI Hires Canopius Jarvis as CUO International General Insurance Holdings Ltd. announced it has appointed Christopher Jarvis to the role of chief underwriting officer of the IGI Group, effective immediately. Jarvis will work with IGIs underwriting team leaders to optimize performance within their existing portfolios in order to support the group in delivering on its growth and profitability targets. He will also be responsible for evaluating new business opportunities. Based in the companys London office, Jarvis is a member of the IGI executive team and reports to Waleed Jabsheh, president of IGI. Jarvis, who has 30 years industry experience, joins from Canopius Managing Agency, where he was joint active underwriter, Syndicate 4444 and 1861. He held joint responsibility for all aspects of the Lloyds underwriting platform, including regional underwriting operations in the U.S. and across the Asia Pacific region. Prior to that, Jarvis held various underwriting positions at Lloyds syndicates and London market re/insurers, including AmTrust Syndicates Ltd., ANV Managing Agency, Flagstone Marlborough, BMS Group, and SVB (Novae) UW Ltd. Chris brings significant experience from his tenure at several Lloyds of London syndicates and London market companies, said Jabsheh. His successful track record of delivering portfolio growth is impressive, and his considerable experience in niche property and marine insurance classes will be invaluable as we continue our evolution as a global specialist commercial insurer and reinsurer. Bermuda-registered IGI is an international specialty risks commercial re/insurer with a worldwide portfolio of energy, property, general aviation, construction & engineering, ports & terminals, marine cargo, marine trades, contingency, political violence, financial institutions, general third-party liability (casualty), legal expenses, professional indemnity, D&O, surety, marine liability and reinsurance treaty business. The company was launched in 2001. Topics Europe AXA XL A 20-year-old Madison man should be awarded $1.1 million in a settlement agreement after surveillance video showed police repeatedly punching him in the head during a mental health crisis at a foster home in 2019, his attorneys said last week. A federal civil rights suit says David Clash-Miller was 17 when Madison police were called to transport him to a mental health facility for treatment, as part of an agreement made by his foster parent and school resource officer. A home security camera captured officers slamming him against a door and into a couch before putting a spit hood over his head and punching him, according to the suit. Hopefully, it will make the police accountable and thank goodness we had a video in the home, said Bob Gingras, an attorney for Clash-Miller. Gingras said the settlement agreement was signed last Thursday. None of the officers were criminally charged or disciplined in the case, the Journal Sentinel reported. Madison City Attorney Michael Haas said the settlement does not include any admission of wrongdoing. An outside review found officers had acted legally but missed opportunities that could have defused the situation. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Law Enforcement Wisconsin A U.S. federal judge on Friday dismissed a lawsuit brought by the Mexican government against U.S. gun manufacturers arguing their commercial practices has led to bloodshed in Mexico. Judge F. Dennis Saylor in Boston ruled Mexicos claims did not overcome the broad protection provided to gun manufacturers by the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act passed in 2005. The law shields gun manufacturers from damages resulting from the criminal or unlawful misuse of a firearm. While the court has considerable sympathy for the people of Mexico, and none whatsoever for those who traffic guns to Mexican criminal organizations, it is duty-bound to follow the law, Saylor wrote. Mexicos Foreign Affairs Ministry said it would appeal the decision and continue insisting that the sale of guns be responsible, transparent and accountable, and that the negligent way in which they are sold in the United States facilitates criminals access to them. Mexico was seeking at least $10 billion in compensation, but legal experts had viewed the lawsuit as a long shot. The Mexican government argued that the companies know their practices contribute to the trafficking of guns into Mexico and facilitate it. Mexico wants compensation for the havoc the guns have wrought on its people. Among those sued were some of the biggest names in guns, including: Smith & Wesson Brands Inc., Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc., Beretta U.S.A. Corp., Colts Manufacturing Company LLC and Glock Inc. Another defendant was Interstate Arms, a Boston-area wholesaler that sells guns from all but one of the named manufacturers to dealers around the U.S. The Mexican government estimates 70% of the weapons trafficked into Mexico come from the U.S., according to the Foreign Affairs Ministry. It said that in 2019 alone, at least 17,000 homicides in Mexico were linked to trafficked weapons. Mexico argued the U.S. protection act did not apply when an injury occurred outside the United States. Saylor did not agree. Mexico is seeking to hold defendants liable for practices that occurred within the United States and only resulted in harm in Mexico, he wrote. This case thus represents a valid domestic application of the PLCAA, and the presumption against extraterritoriality does not apply. The sale of firearms is severely restricted in Mexico and controlled by the Defense Department. But thousands of guns are smuggled into Mexico by the countrys powerful drug cartels. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Legislation Mexico Gun Liability Manufacturing The US Supreme Court will decide whether social media companies can be sued over targeted content recommendations, agreeing to hear an appeal from a family that says Alphabet Inc.s Google bears some of the responsibility for a 2015 ISIS terrorist attack. The case marks the courts first test of the broad immunity social media companies have enjoyed under a provision known as Section 230, part of the 1996 Communications Decency Act. Section 230 has become a target of conservatives, including former President Donald Trump, who say it lets left-leaning tech companies censor right-wing voices. Google is trying to defeat a suit involving Nohemi Gonzalez, a 23-year-old US citizen who was among 129 people killed in coordinated attacks in Paris in November 2015. Gonzalezs family says Googles YouTube service, through its algorithms, violated the Anti-Terrorism Act by recommending the terrorist groups videos to other users. Courts have interpreted Section 230 as immunizing computer services when they are engaged in activities traditionally performed by publishers, such as deciding whether to display or edit third-party content. But Gonzalezs family says recommendations are a different matter. Enormous Importance Whether Section 230 applies to these algorithm-generated recommendations is of enormous practical importance, the family argued in the appeal. Interactive computer services constantly direct such recommendations, in one form or another, at virtually every adult and child in the United States who uses social media. Google says YouTube at the time of the attack used a sidebar tool to queue up videos based on user inputs including browsing history. The company says the only alleged link between the Paris attacker and YouTube was that one attacker was an active user of the video-sharing service and once appeared in an ISIS propaganda video. This court should not lightly adopt a reading of section 230 that would threaten the basic organizational decisions of the modern internet, Google argued. Two lower courts, including the San Francisco-based 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals, sided with Google and said the lawsuit should be dismissed. The court will hear arguments and rule by July. The case is Gonzalez v. Google, 21-1333. The Supreme Court also agreed to hear a related appeal by Twitter Inc. in a case stemming from a 2017 terrorist shooting in an Istanbul nightclub. In same ruling that absolved Google for the Paris attacks, the appeals court said Twitter, Google and Meta Platforms Inc.s Facebook had to face claims that they played a role in the Istanbul attack by failing to identify and remove ISIS materials. Twitter contends the appeals court improperly expanded the scope of the Anti-Terrorism Act by letting the suit go forward. The case is Twitter v. Taamneh, 21-1496. Photo: Members of the media outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. Photographer: Valerie Plesch/Bloomberg Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. Topics USA Parts of the Mississippi River are so low from weeks of drought that barge traffic is being limited at the worst possible time as crop harvests begin. Some Mississippi River communities between St. Louis and New Orleans may see record low water levels in the coming days, including Caruthersville, Missouri, and Osceola, Arkansas. The National Weather Service predicts the reading at Memphis, Tennessee, will reach its second-lowest level ever by Oct. 13. The timing is bad. Corn and soybeans harvested in the early fall need to be moved, and barges are vital in getting the commodities from one place to another. Officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said Thursday that normally, tows are able to move 36 barges at a time. With the water level so low, shippers have voluntarily agreed to cut that to 25 barges. The U.S. Department of Agricultures Grain Transportation Report released Thursday said that 1,890 grain barges have unloaded in New Orleans since Sept. 1, about 39% fewer than the five-year average. The tight barge supply is problematic for grain shippers heading into harvest, the report stated. Unless barge supply improves, the increased demand for barges from grain shippers during harvest will likely put even more upward pressure on barge rates. National Weather Service meteorologist Matt Beitscher in suburban St. Louis said nearly all of the Mississippi River basin, from Minnesota through Louisiana, has seen below-normal rainfall over the past 30 days. The basin from St. Louis south has been largely dry for three months, and the forecast calls for the drought to continue, along with warmer-than-normal temperatures. Hot and dry does not spell good news for the rivers, Beitscher said. Though the Mississippi River is low, there is no evidence that barges or other vessels have grounded, said Lance Engle, dredging project manager for the Corps in St. Louis. He said dredging of the river bottom continues in several spots to help keep traffic flowing. The river has not been forced to close at any locations, but Joan Stemler, the chief of water control operations in St. Louis for the Corps of Engineers, warned that the flow from the Missouri River, which feeds into the Mississippi north of St. Louis, is expected to drop enough in December that the Mississippi could go up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) lower if dry conditions continue. The upper Mississippi River, from Minnesota to St. Louis, operates with a series of locks and dams. The river from St. Louis to the south is free-flowing. Stemler said that in a low-water emergency, the Corps can release water from the southern-most dam, near Alton, Illinois, which would increase the depth downriver by a half-foot (15 centimeters). But thats only a one-time shot, Stemler said. Once we release that water, we wouldnt have anything behind it, so were kind of stingy with it unless something major occurs for navigation. The low water level is having other impacts, too. On Wednesday, Corps officials in Louisiana said the river level was so low that Gulf of Mexico salt water was creeping farther than usual toward New Orleans and threatening drinking water. The Corps plans an underwater levee to block the wedge of heavier salt water before it can get into water treatment plants. A ferry that carries vehicles across the river between Kentucky and Missouri closed in mid-September. When the river gets too low, it becomes difficult for vehicles to load and off-load from the Dorena-Hickman Ferry at both landings, the Kentucky Transportation Department said in a statement. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Mississippi Two former executives of a Missouri health nonprofit have pleaded guilty to their roles in a corruption scheme that ensnared several Arkansas elected officials and lobbyists, federal prosecutors said. Bontiea Bernedette Goss, 63, and her husband, Tommy Ray Goss, 66, pleaded guilty Wednesday in federal court to conspiracy charges arising from a multi-year federal investigation. The couple were executives at Preferred Family Healthcare Inc., a Springfield-based nonprofit that provided services such as substance abuse treatments and counseling to people in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Illinois. Federal prosecutors said in a news release the Gosses and other co-conspirators paid bribes and kickbacks to Arkansas lawmakers to obtain favorable legislation and other official actions that helped the nonprofit. As part of the plea agreement, the Gosses must forfeit up to $4.3 million as determined by the court at their sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set. Bontiea Goss pleaded guilty to conspiracy to pay bribes and kickbacks to elected public officials in Arkansas. Tom Goss pleaded guilty to being part of the conspiracy by embezzling funds from the nonprofit and paying bribes and kickbacks to Arkansas officials. He also pleaded guilty to preparing a false tax return. Earlier this year, Preferred Family Healthcare agreed to pay more than $8 million in forfeiture and restitution to the federal government and the state of Arkansas under a non-prosecution agreement, which acknowledges the criminal conduct of its former officers and employees. Other Preferred Family employees, Arkansas lobbyists and some Arkansas lawmakers, including former state Sen. Jeremy Hutchinson, nephew of Gov. Asa Hutchinson, have pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Fraud Arkansas FORT MYERS, Fla. Dave Lusk, who lives on San Carlos Island, sandwiched between Fort Myers and devastated Fort Myers Beach, Florida, told the story of how his daugther and her family decided to ride out Hurricane Ian in their three-story home on the tiny island. As the Gulf of Mexico surged into the first story last Wednesday, the family moved to the second floor. When the waters rushed in there, they scrambled to the third floor. She said she thought she was going to die, Lusk said. Within an hour, their next-door neighbors house was pulled loose from its foundation and crashed into theirs, Lusk said. The neighbors climbed through a window to Lusks daughters home. Fortunately for Lusks daughter, she carried flood insurance on her stately house. But thousands of others in southwest Florida where the most severe damage came from flooding and storm surge that topped 12 feet in some areas did not. The question now is, will the wrath of Hurricane Ian finally prompt more homeowners in vulnerable coastal areas to purchase flood insurance. We expect this to be a wake-up call for Floridians, said Trevor Burgess, CEO of Neptune Flood Insurance, a surplus-lines carrier that holds 130,000 flood policies nationwide and about 30,000 in Florida. After Hurricane Harvey hit the Houston, Texas, area in 2017, for example, flood insurance demand soared in that area, Burgess said. As the hurricane aimed for Floridas west coast early last week, Neptune saw a four-fold spike in requests for quotes from coastal property owners. None of those could be bound before the storm hit, though, due to the firms 10-day waiting period, which Burgess noted is faster than NFIPs 30-day waiting period. Neptune policies provide coverage above the $250,000 ceiling that the National Flood Insurance Program offers up to $4 million. The average premium is about $1,000 annually, Burgess said. Only about 15% of Florida homes carry flood insurance, a number that has dropped slightly in recent years, he noted. Milliman, the national actuarial firm, said that in the Florida counties under evacuation orders for Ian, about 18.5% of homes have coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program, according to the New York Times. Its becoming clearer that flood, rather than wind claims, are going to drive losses in Florida, former Florida deputy insurance commissioner Lisa Miller posted late last week. ICEYE, a satellite imagery firm, reported Monday that some 358,850 properties are in areas that were flooded by Ian, and about 13,363 saw water of five feet or more. The hurricane hit parts of Florida with a double blow. After 150-mph winds raked the southwest coast on Wednesday, 14 inches of rain were dumped in the central part of the state, flooding areas around Orlando. Then, all that water flowed southwest, breaching levees and flooding properties in Northport, north of Fort Myers. The muddy waters snarled traffic for hours, from Tampa to Naples. Ian killed more than 100 people in Florida and in the Carolinas as it moved north, according to news reports. Early estimates of insured property losses continue to rise, standing at $40 billion by Sunday, Fitch Ratings service said. Karen Clark & Co. put the losses in the U.S. and the Caribbean at close to $63 billion. Verisk Analytics said Monday that insured losses from Ian could reach as high as $57 billion from wind, storm surge and flooding. NFIP losses and litigation costs could eventually push insurer costs above $60 billion. Michael McNitt, president of Cabrillo Coastal Insurance Co., which insures property all around Florida, said Saturday that the carrier was expecting many claims but said it was too soon to know the extent of losses. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation said that as of Monday, 222,261 claims have been reported, including 165,008 from residential properties. Total estimated insured losses topped $1.6 billion for those claims, the OIR reported. Several insurance agents in the Fort Myers area suffered losses on their personal properties and their offices, said Kyle Ulrich, president of the Florida Association of Insurance Agents. A number of agents could not be located by Insurance Journal reporters, who were in the Fort Myers area Friday and Saturday. Access to some of the most-damaged beach areas was off-limits to everyone except first responders and residents immediately after the storm passed. The widespread loss of power and cell phone service in the area meant that insurance agencies remained closed Friday and Saturday. Some homeowners, unable to reach their agents on the phone, drove to the agency offices but left frustrated. Others complained to local radio stations that they couldnt get in touch with their agents, perhaps unaware that the agents themselves had suffered damage. The Florida Department of Financial Services said it would set up two insurance villages in the area today, Monday, in the area to help homeowners with claims. One will be in the Port Charlotte Town Center parking lot. Another will be in the JetBlue parking lot, 11500 Fenway South Drive, in Fort Myers. Citizens Property Insurance Corp. said it has deployed its catastrophe response teams to the area and will host a webinar for agents on Tuesday, Oct. 4, at 10 a.m. Eastern time. Registration is here. North of ground zero, homeowners and agents breathed a sigh of relief when the storm, initially aiming for the heavily populated Tampa area, turned eastward. We dodged a bullet, said Austin Boyd, who, along with his dad, state Sen. Jim Boyd, manages the Boyd Insurance agency In Bradenton, on the southern edge of Tampa Bay. Boyd said the agency had written about 100 policies in the Fort Myers area, and he was expecting numerous claims. In Bradenton, policyholders had reported downed trees, collapsed fences and swimming-pool cages that were torn apart. But water damage remains the biggest concern for insurers in Lee and other southwest Florida counties. And with rising seas, a predicted increase in hurricanes and patterns of heavier rainfall in parts of the country, more agents and property owners will see flooding in coming years, studies suggest. Everyone needs flood insurance, Neptunes Burgess said. The highest point in Florida is just 400 feet above sea level. He said that many homeowners mistakenly believe that their homeowners insurance policy will cover flood damage. Others dont think theyre in danger because the FEMA flood maps are wrong, Burgess said. The Federal Emergency Management Agency maps in the past have shown X zones, considered by FEMA to be at only moderate risk of flooding. Burgess argued that property owners often think that means their sites dont need insurance. About 20% of our claims are in X zones, he said. Risk Rating 2.0, FEMAs new system for rating flood-prone areas, was created to provide more accurate and equitable flood-insurance rates. Since the system took effect a year ago, NFIP premiums have dropped for some but have spike for thousands, prompting some owners to avoid flood insurance, Burgess said. Top photo: A boat that appeared to carried over a destroyed building on hard-hit San Carlos Island, next to Fort Myers Beach (Insurance Journal photo). Video: Shot mostly on San Carlos Island near Fort Myers Beach, Florida, on Friday, Sept. 30. Topics Florida Profit Loss Windstorm When Hurricane Ian struck Floridas Gulf Coast, it washed out the bottom level of David Muenchs home on the barrier island of Sanibel along with several cars, a Harley-Davidson and a boat. His parents house was among those destroyed by the storm that killed at least two people there, and the lone bridge to the crescent-shaped island collapsed, cutting off access by car to the mainland for its 6,300 residents. Hurricane Ian underscores the vulnerability of the nations barrier islands and the increasing costs of people living on the thin strips of land that parallel the coast. As hurricanes become more destructive, experts question whether such exposed communities can keep rebuilding in the face of climate change. This is a Hurricane Katrina-scale event, where youre having to rebuild everything, including the infrastructure, said Jesse M. Keenan, a real estate professor at Tulane Universitys School of Architecture. We cant build back everything to what it was _ we cant afford that. Ian slammed into southwest Florida as a Category 4 hurricane Wednesday with among the highest windspeeds in U.S. history _ in nearly the same spot where Hurricane Charley, also a Category 4, caused major damage in 2004. The latest storm has initiated a new cycle of damage and repair on Sanibel thats played out on many other barrier islands, from the New Jersey shore and North Carolinas Outer Banks to a ribbon of land along the Louisiana coast. Barrier islands were never an ideal place for development, experts say. They typically form as waves deposit sediment off the mainland. And they move based on weather patterns and other ocean forces. Some even disappear. Building on the islands and holding them in place with beach replenishment programs just makes them more vulnerable to destruction because they can no longer move, according to experts. They move at the whims of the storms, said Anna Linhoss, a professor of biosystems engineering at Auburn University. And if you build on them, youre just waiting for a storm to take them away. After devastating parts Florida, Ian made landfall again in South Carolina, where Pawleys Island was among the hardest hit places. Fridays winds and rains broke apart the barrier islands main pier, one of several in the state to crumble and wash away. On Saturday, homeowners in the beach community about 73 miles (120 kilometers) up the coast from Charleston struggled to assess damage from storm. The causeways connecting the island to the mainland were strewn with palm fronds, pine needles and even a kayak retrieved from a nearby shoreline. The intercoastal waterway was littered with the remnants of several boat houses torn apart and knocked off their pilings in the storm. Like Pawleys Island, many barrier island communities anchor long-entrenched tourist economies, which are often the source of crucial tax dollars. At the same time, the cost of rebuilding them is often high because theyre home to many expensive properties, such as vacation homes. When theres a disaster like this, we will pour tens of billions of public dollars into these communities to help them rebuild, said Robert S. Young, director of the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines, which is a joint venture between Duke University and Western Carolina University. And we will ask very little for that money in return in terms of taking a step back from places that are incredibly exposed to hazards and making sure that we never have this kind of a disaster again, Young said. But any big changes to the standard disaster response will be complicated, said Dawn Shirreffs, Florida director of the Environmental Defense Fund. Challenges could include decisions on who participates in programs that elevate flood-prone homes or programs that buy those homes and tear them down. Planting mangroves to prevent erosion could end up blocking someones view. Many homeowners bought their properties before people were fully aware of climate change and the risks of sea-level rise, Shirreffs said. But Keenan, the Tulane professor, said Sanibel will undoubtedly be changed by Hurricane Ian based on the research hes done. There will be fewer government resources to help people rebuild. Those with fewer means and who are underinsured will likely move. People with financial means will stay. Sanibel will just be an enclave for the ultrawealthy, Keenan said. But Muench, the Sanibel resident, said homeowners and business owners are sure to rebuild their properties. His family has owned and operated a campground on the island for three generations. The island, he said, is paradise _ we live in the most beautiful place on Earth. We are going to continue to exist on Sanibel, Muench, 52, said from Fort Myers on Friday after evacuating Sanibel. Give us five years, and you might not even notice if you didnt know. Photo: Physician Karen Calkins tends to Mona Guibord, 94, as she waits to be evacuated from Pine Island, Florida, in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. The only bridge to the island is heavily damaged so it can only be reached by boat or air. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - A high-level Turkish delegation headed by Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and the Libyan prime minister of the National Unity Government, Abdelhamid Al-Dbaiba Monday signed a number of memorandum of understanding (MOU) covering many fields, including energy, gas, communications, media and security training Farmers have entered day six of protesting at retailers in Co Cavan. According to the Irish Farmers Association, which is leading the protests, the spirit of those at the picket lines remains strong. Pig, poultry, and egg producers involved have targeted Aldi and Lidl in Cavan town, to highlight their mounting concern for the future of the sectors. Farmers continue to block the entrance for deliveries at both the Aldi and Lidl stores, leading to shop shelves currently being empty of fresh produce. Pig, poultry, and egg producers involved have targeted Aldi and Lidl in Cavan town, to highlight their mounting concern for the future of the sectors. Picture: Irish Farmers' Association Twitter page IFA poultry vice chairman Brendan Soden said that there is no end in sight for the protests if retailers do not commit to the price increases that farmers are seeking. Irish eggs in jeopardy Mr Soden said that if a 2c per egg is not ringfenced directly for egg producers, the supply of Irish eggs will be in jeopardy. He said that a price increase has been offered by egg packers to farmers - but that it was only "a third of what farmers need". Speaking from outside Lidl this afternoon, Mr Soden said that the retailers are "well aware of our situation and what we are looking for". He added that entering the sixth day of farmers protesting outside retailers without substantial negotiations taking place is "reaching historical levels". "If you see the shelves in these shops at the minute, it's a taste of the reality - if there are no farmers, that's what all shelves will look," Mr Soden told the Irish Examiner. He said there has been "fantastic support" shown for farmers by members of the public they have engaged with over the last number of days, with "hundreds" signing a petition in support of the farmers' call. "I don't think the retailers realise how willing the public is to pay that little bit more for eggs if they have to, or if there's enough of the cake there already for us, that we have to stand here to try and survive," Mr Soden continued. "None of us want to be here, and it's not the customer we want to annoy, but we're being put into that situation that we have to. "I've spoken to a lot of people here on the poultry side who are very heavily borrowed, and they're very worried not only that they'll go out of business, but they'll lose their farm and land because they can't pay the bank." Ryan Corrigan (5), Brendan Soden IFA & egg producer Linda Dougal, Wicklow are among the protestors at Aldi Cavan where the IFA have picketed for four days, blocking all deliveries to the store leaving the shelves empty. The poultry farmers are seeking a 2c increase on each egg. Picture: Lorraine Teevan He said that farmers will be staying put at the two stores and continuing to block delivery access "until we can enter into meaningful negotiations". Aldi has said that it is "extremely disappointed" by the IFA protest at its Cavan store. A spokesperson said that Aldi has been "in active discussions with our egg suppliers for a period of weeks now, with a view to agreeing what would be a fourth price increase this year". On Saturday [October 1], discussions advanced further when a price increase, which substantially exceeds what protesting farmers are seeking, was agreed with our egg suppliers. It is up to our egg suppliers, and those farmers with whom they have a commercial arrangement, to engage as to how this outcome is apportioned. Given this progress, the continued disruption of our Cavan store by a small number of farmers is reckless. "The blockade, which has prevented store deliveries, has caused real frustration among our customers. Frustrations we share. "Stock is not the problem, access is. Our supply trucks are loaded with Irish produce from our Irish suppliers ready to stock the shelves of our Cavan store. "Unfortunately, the blockades are preventing this." A spokesperson for Lidl said they will not be commenting on the issue. Pig and chicken producers have been part of the protests to support the egg sector, and also to highlight their ongoing losses at farm level. IFA pigs chairman Roy Gallie said the losses that are mounting continuously on pig farms for the last 400 days are "completely unsustainable". He told the Irish Examiner that pig farmers are "the fall guys basically; everybody else's costs are whittled down to us because were simply price-givers and price-takers and have no control over either". Food ombudsman The IFA is calling for Government to establish a food ombudsman urgently. In his speech at the Fianna Fail Ard Fheis this past weekend, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue confirmed that he has commenced the recruitment process for the chief executive of the new Office for Fairness and Transparency in the Agri-Food Supply Chain. "The office will be up and running by the end of the year and will be an office with real teeth that will protect our farm families," Mr McConalogue said. "I want those who are breaking the Unfair Trading Practices to be afraid of the office. It will shine a light on the sector. "It will have real teeth. It will protect our farm families." SEX must be taken seriously; Some desires are bad; Marriage is good, and Consent is not enough. These are chapter titles from a new book in which the English journalist Louise Perry moves from one cherished assumption of the sexual revolution to the next, skilfully picking them apart with reason, empirical evidence, human stories, and, occasionally, ridicule, and then replacing them with a new set of counter-cultural messages. Anyone who thinks that, thanks to the pill, the collapse of monogamy, and the shattering of sexual taboos, humanity has reached, or is even on its way towards, the sunlit uplands of human desire may have their beliefs severely tested by Louise Perrys The Case Against the Sexual Revolution. Mary Whitehouse, you feel, would be nodding in agreement with much of Perrys book and perhaps even feel vindicated by some of it. But Perry comes to these issues from a very different political hinterland to the 70s campaigner (whom she is not afraid to honour for the things Mrs Whitehouse got right). She grew up in a household that took two copies of The Guardian every day (one of which she would take to school with her). She is a member of the Labour Party and writes for the New Statesman, Britains preeminent left-wing weekly. But Louise believes that the liberal left gets sex wrong. I think it was confrontation with reality that dissuaded me of some of the standard views, she tells me. Both as a student, and after she had finished her degree in Womens Studies at Oxford, Perry worked in a rape crisis centre. I just found the difference between feminist theory and the reality of frontline services amazing. There was nothing in my philosophy intro on motherhood, really; very little in there on sexual violence. She found that the dominant view in feminist circles that rape is all about power, and that it doesnt have anything to do with sexual desire, just doesnt stack up, if you look at particularly things like the demographics of victims, demographics of perpetrators. And how do you explain rape committed by men against other men, for instance, if your whole conception of it is to do with patriarchy as the dominant motivation? In conversation, as in print, Louises tone is calm and thoughtful, but she is also unafraid to shoot from the hip. It is, she finds, bizarrely easy for very clever women to repeat obviously stupid ideas. I think that you do see that elsewhere, but its amazingly pronounced in feminism for some reason. Im not sure why. Her book is full of challenges to contemporary received wisdom. Sexual liberalism, she writes, asks women to train themselves out of the kind of instinctive revulsion that often has a protective function. The world would be a better place if some men were more ashamed of their desires and acted on that shame by mastering them. And the liberal feminist appeal to consent as the litmus test for what is right or acceptable, isnt good enough. It cannot account for the ways in which the sexuality of impressionable young people can be warped by porn and other forms of cultural influence. It cannot convincingly explain why a woman who hurts herself should be understood as mentally ill, but a woman who asks her partner to hurt her is apparently exercising her sexual agency. Capitalism is another consistent target: Porn is to sex as McDonalds is to food. These two capitalist enterprises take our natural appetites, pluck out the most compulsive and addictive elements, strip away anything truly nutritious, and then encourage us to consume more and more. Its strong stuff, delivered in measured doses by a talented writer and thinker. I asked Perry about her decision to write a book on this subject. What was the trigger? Id sort of been writing it in my head for a long time, she says, but the success of We Cant Consent to This, a campaign against the use of rough sex defences for the killing or violent injury of women and girls, played a major part. We succeeded in changing the law as we wanted to, she says. We all felt that something was happening here: this tiny group of women, unpaid, and able to get the most amazing reception everywhere we went, really. This reception spanned the political spectrum: You know, positive coverage in The Guardian and in the Daily Mail, and from Labour and the Tories. So, yeah, I felt very much as though there was something that wasnt quite being said, but that a lot of people were thinking, and that maybe I should put it down on paper. But finding a publisher was not easy and The Case Against the Sexual Revolution was turned down by lots of the grander houses. Louise is now in the position of having a book published by a small academic press that is hoovering up good reviews in the biggest newspapers and websites. Publishing is a very cautious industry, she says. They have my sympathy because the lead times are so long for getting a book out that you have to try and judge the mood in two or three years from now. I think the book has done well enough to suggest that there is something else in the air. We talk a little about the role wider culture plays, from Sally Rooney novels questioning monogamous pair-bonding to Love Island converting short-term sexual rivalry and infidelity into a mass spectator sport. Thinking of Rooneys Normal People, Louise mentions the Connell phenomenon. She is bemused: Girls were, like, head over heels for Connell, talking about finding their Connell. It was a big phenomenon online, on kind of girly bits of the internet. And the thing that they find wonderful about him is the fact that he doesnt want to do the BDSM stuff that the female protagonist asks for. And this is, like, amazingly gentlemanly. He is clearly good in bed and charming in all sorts of ways, but he does take advantage of other women in the book. In a way, I thought the fact that Normal People is held up as being the Pride and Prejudice of our age says a lot about how low the bar is and how modest are the expectations of these young women who think that Connell is a great romantic hero. It seems like theres that a kind of yearning for what hes offering, but also just such low expectations. Some of Louise Perrys conclusions come close to the tenets on sex to be found in traditional religion. Is she religious? Im not a practising Christian. People often assume that Im Catholic, but Im not. Im kind of culturally Christian, but Im not starting from religious principles. Im just ending up in agreement on some points. I have good friends who are Catholic feminists and Catholic feminism is a very coherent view and has a lot to recommend it. The main thing that I think we would disagree on is abortion. My general view is that banning abortion would probably do more harm than good and that you should be coming at it from the it would be better if women werent getting pregnant by terrible men who dont care about them sort of angle, rather than legislative intervention. So thats the point on which I disagree most with Catholic feminists. We have to wrap up the interview. Later though, via email, I contact Perry, wondering whether she feels like a lone voice. Not so, it seems. Im not the only feminist writing from this perspective, Perry tells me, mentioning other writers such as Mary Harrington, Kathleen Stock ,and Nina Power. We are a growing band. If you love trees and want to help a Cork group which distributes native Irish trees, then here's how... Trees Please has a 15 calendar for sale and proceeds will help cover the costs of the work of this voluntary group. Calendars are available by becoming a 'funder' and essentially pre-ordering a 2023 calendar. Calendars will also be available directly in Cork city centre in November. The group was set up in 2019 and has been active for three planting seasons last year they distributed and planted more than 3,000 trees "to help improve native biodiversity and to enhance the beauty of our surroundings". Trees Please: Planting native Irish trees treespleasecork@gmail.com And if you have space for an actual tree then Trees Please may be able to help out here too. Email treespleasecork@gmail.com and they will send back an order form and information on selecting the right trees for the site. Tree lovers can request 1-10 trees or 10-plus trees these typically include alder, oak, hazel, willow, birch and rowan. And donations are suggested for the larger tree requests. Schools and other community groups are among the groups receiving the trees, as well as people with space in their gardens for a tree or hedgerow. Tree planting for Trees Please. Picture: Tom Campbell The group collects seed and grows trees at their allotment in Churchfield in Cork and at other donated sites as well. The 15 (this covers printing and postage costs) calendar will have information on various native trees. Trees Please volunteer, Tom Campbell, watering trees at their allotment in Churchfield Tom Jordan, Trees Please volunteer, said: "We appreciate all the enthusiasm and support Trees Please has received. We hope to go on growing trees and helping to make Ireland a more ecologically diverse and beautiful country. When Anna Maria Haslam cast her first vote in 1918, at the age of 90, she was paraded to the polling booth by several jubilant members of the suffrage movement. Radicals and moderates alike were keen to show their appreciation to this woman, the 16th of 17 children born into a middle-class Quaker family in Youghal, Co Cork, who had spent her life campaigning for womens rights. The idea of equality had come to her naturally, she said, and she fought for equality for all people. She opposed slavery, campaigned for education for all and fought for social reform. Indeed, the scale of her interests is dizzying. She practiced homeopathy, was a member of the Rathmines Literary Society, wrote campaigning, forceful letters to the newspapers and joined a number of social reform groups, from the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children to the Fresh Air Society, a body that brought city-centre children to spend a day by the sea or in the fields. Anna Maria Haslam was also a businesswoman and the family breadwinner. When ill health forced her husband Thomas Haslam to stop working in 1866, she supported both of them there were no children by running a small stationery and toy shop from her home in Rathmines, Dublin. Yet, she still found time to campaign for the vote for women and to do so with such vigour that her name was known not only at home, but in England and America. How did this woman, born into a busy household in Cork, become such an important figure in the history of Ireland? It certainly helped that Anna Maria Haslam got a better start than most. While she was the second-last of 17 children born in April 1829 to Jane (nee Moor) Fisher, philanthropist and anti-slavery campaigner, and her husband, Abraham, theirs was a relatively affluent household. Abraham Fisher was an insurance agent and miller and, as Quakers, Annas parents believed girls should have the same right to education as boys. That meant Anna had access to books. As a young girl she was a voracious reader who was drawn to such writers as novelist and essayist Maria Edgeworth, and Harriet Martineau, considered the UKs first female sociologist. She had the privilege of a full education too and attended Quaker boarding schools in Newtown, Co Waterford, and Newgate in York, England. After her education was complete, she returned to Youghal in 1845 to help her parents run a soup kitchen to help those devastated by the failure of the potato crop. Anna Haslam (1829-1922) She also saw a need to do more and, with her sister Deborah, set up a workshop in the family kitchen to teach young girls to crochet and knit. Soon, the workshop developed into a flourishing business, employing more than 100 local young women. When she met and later married Thomas Haslam in 1854, she found a kindred spirit. He was a fellow Quaker and supporter of womens rights and when the couple moved to Dublin four years later, they both actively promoted womens suffrage. While she is best remembered for co-founding the Dublin Womens Suffrage Association with her husband in 1876, she was involved in several social reform movements. She was a committed champion of womens education and founded the Central Association of Irish Schoolmistresses and Other Ladies Interested in Education. The title of the organisation might have been a mouthful, but it helped to chip away at attitudes that kept women out of education. She also fought for the rights of female sex workers. With Belfast journalist and feminist Isabella Tod, she campaigned for the Repeal movement of the day. They fought to repeal the Contagious Diseases Acts of 1864, initially introduced to control the spread of sexually transmitted diseases in the British army and navy. The acts, however, were deeply unfair and imposed a double sexual standard by allowing the arrest and detention of prostitutes who were then subjected to an examination for venereal disease. Men, on the other hand, went free. The acts were finally repealed in 1886. While Anna Haslam was radical in many senses, she opposed physical force and once labelled women who used it to further their aims as vociferous vixens. As the Freemans Journal put it: She was in heart and soul a propagandist of the peace-loving, politic school, and nothing did she more cordially detest than the physical-force methods adopted by the extremists of her sex to further their policy. She was more traditional in other ways too, saying that she was glad to adopt her husbands surname. For instance, she regularly addressed Hanna Sheehy Skeffington as Mrs Skeffington. Both Hanna and her husband Francis had adopted each others surnames to make a point, yet Mrs Haslam was not for turning. Politically, she differed from many other women in the suffrage movement too as she remained a unionist and a member of the Womens Liberal Unionist Association all her life. She was sure that social reform was more likely within the union than under home rule. Despite those differences, Anna Haslam was a woman who garnered widespread respect. When she died in 1922, shortly after witnessing the introduction of votes for all women, the Freemans Journal described her as one of the most remarkable characters who figured in the public life of Dublin for the last quarter of a century. It added that even those who disagreed with her, acknowledged her earnestness and sincerity of purpose in all her efforts. The Irish Independent noted some of those efforts, praising her life-long work aimed at improving the lives of women: The protection of homeless girls, the health of women workers and kindred problems engaged her earnest attention for many years, and with very profitable results, it said. A year later, Albert Power sculpted a limestone bench in St Stephens Green, Dublin, to commemorate Anna and Thomas Haslam. The inscription celebrates their long years of public service chiefly devoted to the enfranchisement of women. On the centenary of Annas death, which was reported on 30 November 1922, we might take a moment to remember her at that bench, or in her birthplace, Youghal. An Irish charity, which has already sent tonnes of medical aid to Ukraine, is embarking on a new mission to help set up a hospital there to treat soldiers who have suffered mental and physical injuries in the ongoing brutal war with Russia. Members of the Crutches4Ukraine group, who previously shipped medical aid to Poland for injured Ukrainians, have just returned after crossing the border into the war-torn country for the first time. It is believed to be the first time Irish charity volunteers have done so, and they were seriously impacted by what they saw on the ground and the harrowing stories they heard from the local population. Crutches4Ukraine founder, former Senator John Gilroy, who lives in Glanmire, Co Cork, led a team of volunteers to take three jeeps they had packed with medical supplies which were shipped to Krakow in Poland and then across the border into parts of Ukraine which have been recently retaken by its army from the Russian occupiers. Mr Gilroy asked to keep some of the locations and some of the people they talked to secret amid fears that the Russians could retaliate against those they had spoken to. John Gilroy amid some of the buildings destroyed by Russian shelling on the main street of Borodyanka in Ukraine. He said that in several cases Ukrainians who had been liberated by their advancing forces had told him and his group of volunteers that Russian soldiers had indiscriminately murdered civilians in certain towns and villages. Last July, the charity sent 20 tonnes of medical aid including walking aids and medical boots, nappies etc to Poland and these were shipped across the border by the authorities there into the Ukrainian town of Borodyanka, which is 30kms west of the capital Kiev. The town was extensively damaged, and many civilians and Ukrainian soldiers perished there during the early days of the Russian invasion last February and March. A bombed shopping centre near Kyiv. Picture: John Gilroy. In July, the Irish volunteers just oversaw the medical aid shipment being handed over from the Polish authorities to their Ukrainian counterparts. This time it got far more real when the Irish charity members drove three jeeps full of similar aid into Ukraine themselves. The volunteers Mr Gilroy, Green Party Cork county councillor Liam Quaide, and two members of the Cork-based Ukrainian community, Viktor Danieluk and Alex Gavrya took turns to drive the vehicles into Ukraine. Crossing the border in the first instance was extremely difficult. Theres a huge amount of paperwork needed to do that, you wouldnt believe how much, Mr Gilroy said. The charity workers spent two days in Lviv, 120km inside Ukraine, which has been repeatedly attacked by Russian forces and the volunteers had a series of meetings with local humanitarian organisations involved in aid distribution. They also spoke with many distraught Ukrainian mothers whose young sons and daughters were preparing to go to the front to fight for their country. The meeting with the mothers of children, both young men and women, who were about to be mobilised and sent to the front was very distressing to them and to us to be honest, Gilroy said. Mr Giroy, who is a qualified psychiatric nurse, visited the mental hospital there where staff are seeing an increase in people attending with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). He said locals estimate the Russians are firing up to 60,000 shells a day into Ukraine. Some of the members of the Crutches4Ukraine group: Alex Gavrya, John Gilroy, Cllr Liam Quaide, and Victor Danieluk. Picture: John Gilroy I spoke with the administrators in the (mental) hospital. They have plans to renovate it to cater for the increasing numbers of soldiers returning from the front with psychological and physical issues, Mr Gilry said. He is going to approach his very extensive network of contacts in the Irish mental health services to see how they can support this initiative. For starters the hospital needs more generators and power tools to make this happen. The full requirements will become clearer when we have more discussions with our Ukrainian partners. We know they immediately need warm clothing and blankets to deal with the influx. The weather there is going to turn very cold and a lot of times there are power outages, he said. Mr Gilroy and the team got a chance to deliver food to some Ukrainian soldiers who were on the way to the front. Some of them were just 18 and 19 years old. We met a policeman who went to work one morning and a Russian missile hit his home a short time later. He lost his mother, father, his wife, his daughter, his brother and his wife. The missile wiped out his entire family. You couldnt believe how traumatised this man was, he said. The graves of six members of the family of Borodyanka policeman. His wife, 18-month-old daughter, parents, brother and sister-in-law were killed during Russian shelling in March. Picture: John Gilroy We also heard first-hand accounts from people who said their civilian relatives were shot on the streets by the Russians. While we were there we also attended the funerals of two Ukrainian soldiers who had been killed at the front. The scenes of grief at the funerals were just unspeakable. One of the soldiers was 21 and the other was 45," he said. "We also got a tour of the battlefield north of Borodyanka, on the road to Chernobly, where the Ukrainians destroyed a huge column of Russian armour. There are no words to describe it. Anybody in the column hit by a shell was incinerated. War is terrible and this was shocking to see I have to say, Mr Gilroy said. The Mayor of Borodyanka presented the team with a special citation acknowledging their efforts. The humanitarian aid the team brought into Ukraine was immediately taken by the local authorities and sent to the recently liberated areas the Ukrainian forces seized from the Russians. Mr Gilroy said while there's a renewed confidence amongst the Ukrainian population, they still live in daily fear. There is a constant threat of airstrikes and artillery barrages even in areas which are not normally targeted (by the Russians). There is a sense of confidence that they (the Ukrainians) can win the war, but there is also a prevailing sense among civilians of being attacked and losing their sons and daughters on the frontline, he said. More than 54,000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Ireland since the onset of war in their country, data shows. The latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) found a total of 54,771 people from Ukraine arrived in Ireland up to September 25. More than 1,000 people arrived in the previous week. All Ukrainians have been issued with personal public service numbers (PPSNs) under the Temporary Protection Directive. Our analysis also shows that the rate per 100 of the population ranges across all LEAs in the country from 0.07% to 7.87% Women aged 20 and over account for 46% of arrivals to date, while children and teenagers aged 0-19 years, both male and female, account for 35%. The highest percentage of those arriving, a total of 19,121 individuals (more than a third of all arrivals), were categorised as one parent with children under the broad relationship classification headings used. As of September 25, 67% of the arrivals that attended employment support events arranged by Intreo Public Employment Services, English language proficiency was noted as being a challenge in securing employment. Of the 19,589 arrivals who attended an Intreo event, 14,209 had recorded previous occupations, with professionals being the largest group at 32%. Of the 13,878 persons where the highest level of education was recorded, 67% had achieved an NFQ level equivalent to 7 or higher. CSO statistician Karola Graupner said the latest data provides insights into Irelands response to the Ukrainian crisis. We show two maps in this release based on mapping 51,788 individuals, or 95% of arrivals, to a location within Ireland, she said. The first map is a count of arrivals by local electoral area (LEA), and the second is the rate of arrivals by LEA (per 100 of the preliminary Census 2022 de facto population). The LEA with the highest rate is Ennistimon in Co Clare Both North Inner City in Dublin and Killarney in Co Kerry had the highest number of associated arrivals from Ukraine at 1,558. Our analysis also shows that the rate per 100 of the population ranges across all LEAs in the country from 0.07% to 7.87%. The LEA with the highest rate is Ennistimon in Co Clare. The map is based on the local post office addresses through which arrivals were seeking assistance from the Department of Social Protection or, if available, the arrivals residential address where an accommodation recognition payment is payable to the host of the residence. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has described Northern Ireland minister Steve Bakers apology over his previous stance on Brexit as honest and very helpful. Mr Martin welcomed the tone of Mr Bakers upfront comments. Mr Baker, a former strident Brexiteer and member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of MPs, apologised on Sunday over his ferocious stance on negotiations with the EU. He told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham that relations with Ireland are not where they should be, and added that ministers need to act with humility to restore relationships with the Republic and the EU. I welcomed not just his comments, but the tone of his comments Speaking after a shared island event in Dublin on Monday, Mr Martin said: I welcomed not just his comments, but the tone of his comments. I think they were honest and very, very helpful. And I look forward to continuing engagement with Minister Baker and others within the British Government. The Taoiseach said he had a very good engagement with new Prime Minister Liz Truss and new Cabinet members at the Queens funeral. I met the British Prime Minister and we both articulated a collective sense of the long-term desirability of very good relationships between Britain and Ireland and also between the United Kingdom and the European Union, and I think those comments are in that context, he said. Mr Martin added it is very clear that there is a genuine determination to try and resolve all of the issues around the protocol by negotiation. But he warned there is a lot of work to be done in terms of the hard negotiations. Talks are set to resume later this week between the UK and the EU in a bid to find a way out of the impasse. Mr Baker said on Monday that he is happy to eat humble pie in a bid to improve the broken relationship between Britain and Ireland. He told Irish broadcaster RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland programme he is sorry that relations between the UK and Ireland have been soured by the Brexit process and that he is convinced a deal can be reached on the protocol if negotiations are made in a spirit of goodwill. Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker said he is sorry that the Brexit process has soured relations (Jacob King/PA) Im very convinced that, if we get into a negotiation, without pre-conditions, and together in a spirit of goodwill, we can de-escalate this problem and we can get a deal which works for everyone, respecting everyones legitimate interests, north-south and east-west, Mr Baker said. And that really is why, if I have to eat a bit of humble pie in order to restore broken relationships to get that done, well, Im happy to eat a bit of humble pie. Mr Baker said his motivation for his apology was to try to get a deal that works. If were going to be constructive here and get a deal that works for everyone, weve got to de-escalate these tensions. So that was my motivation, he said. I sincerely want to be on the right side of all parties involved in the Belfast Good Friday Agreement so that we can make progress, get a deal and get on with the really serious issues that we face in Northern Ireland. He added: I recognise that, as the leader of the sort of 28, if I can put it in those terms, who rejected Theresa Mays deal three times, that caused enormous amounts of anxiety, and I recognise also that businesses in Northern Ireland faced a lot of costs through this process of uncertainty. And those are things I want to see put right. We can put those right in the deal. For Grand Designs Kevin McCloud, good home design is always a balance of beauty, innovation and sustainability and right now, the cost of living crisis cant be ignored. I think whats missing at the moment is sensible advice, says the presenter. Aesthetics and the joy that a beautiful environment brings are really important why not invest in beauty? But I think now its not so much a question of cost, its a question of value. Well-made things, and the well-designed house thats eco-efficient and sustainable and low-energy, are becoming much more desirable, and I think the cost implications of the cost of living crisis have tipped the balance. Its like its all very well my house being beautiful, but if I cant afford to heat the water, whats the point? Its something we can expect to see a lot of at Grand Designs Live (granddesignslive.com), which returns to NEC Birmingham from October 5-9 and will be packed with innovative design ideas and advice on sustainable and energy-efficient living. Visitors will be able to tour a low-carbon house showcasing design possibilities and learn about the "pillars of wisdom" outlined in the Green Living Live section. Theres a lot of doom and gloom in our lives at the moment, but weve always felt that design can offer all kinds of brilliant solutions, says McCloud. Theyre not always expensive, and they can be genius and truly helpful. The exhibition has come into its own in this current crisis and I hope it will be able to help a lot of people. Here, McCloud outlines 10 ways households can help save energy and reduce their bills this winter and beyond Add extra insulation Theres no point letting any money youve spent on heating seep out through walls, windows and doors which is where good insulation comes in. The first Green Living pillar of wisdom is insulation, says McCloud. Under floors, wall insulation, which should be considered, and of course loft insulation, which is completely critical. In my own experience, just add another four inches of insulation to your attic. Many people have already got eight inches in there, but if you add another four, youll really feel the benefit. I always used to say itll pay for itself in two weeks, but actually itll pay for itself in one week with the cost of energy being what it is. Opt for carpet Snug as a bug (Alamy/PA) Carpets will help keep heat in too. If youre putting insulation underneath a draughty floor, think about carpeting that floor, rather than having it as bare boards, McCloud suggests. Deal with draughts Another place heat escapes easily is through doors. McCloud notes you can buy stick-on draught-excluding rubber rolls from DIY stores and online retailers. It comes on long rolls and you just stick it round your doorway, he explains. Its all standard stuff that can really make a difference. And then of course theres the long sausage dog that goes at the bottom of the door, like my grandad used to have Ive got two of those. McCloud loves a sausage dog draught excluder (Alamy/PA) Be window wise Make sure any gaps around windows are plugged up too. McCloud says other energy-efficient window measures, which require more investment than simple draught-proofing, include installing thermal-efficient glazing, or secondary glazing, where another slim-line window is added to existing windows. Consider thermal plaster If you cant do everything, then think about using an insulated plaster or board on your walls, suggests McCloud. This includes plaster-like mixtures infused with insulative materials, which dont let heat escape as much as standard plaster does. Invest in a heat pump All of a sudden, everybodys saying things like theyve got a gas boiler and theyre not happy, says McCloud. I think weve been banging a drum for a very long time and suddenly the market is very hungry for everything weve been working towards. Get a heat pump as opposed to a boiler of course, that involves some investment. Super solar Another eco-friendly heating solution is solar panels, although McCloud warns: They heat well, but do involve some investment. Get a smart meter McCloud advises getting a smart meter installed to track household energy spending more efficiently. Intelligent water tanks Smart water tanks have sensors to monitor your homes hot water levels, so only whats needed will get heated. Energy company Centrica says this can help save more than 10% on hot water bills annually. Every small step counts As well as all the big energy saving measures, there are plenty of clever little ways householders can help reduce energy use. Should I turn the tap off when Im brushing my teeth? Should I boil just enough water in the kettle? Should I put the dishwasher on at night on the economy setting? Should I wait til Ive got a proper full load of washing before I put the machine on? Yes to all of these things, says McCloud. Theyre not going to make a huge difference, but every little helps. One of the most interesting things that will make quite a significant difference to most people is turning machines off at the socket when youre not using them things like televisions and microwaves, he adds. Burma 17 Myanmar Junta Troops Killed in PDF Raid on Magwe Training Camp Resistance fighters of the Myaing Villages Revolution Front during an operation in Myaing Township. / MVRF Seventeen junta troops were reportedly killed and over 50 pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia personnel detained when a combined resistance force raided a military training camp in Pauk Township, Magwe Region on Sunday. Peoples Defense Force (PDF) groups from Pauk and Myaing townships raided Zee Pyar Village in Pauk, where nearly 100 militia troops were being trained by junta police and soldiers. The raid came after several reports that villagers opposing the junta had been killed or evicted, said Myaing-PDF, which coordinated the raid on Monday. During seven hours of fighting, 53 Pyu Saw Htee militia members were captured by the PDF groups. At least 17 regime soldiers, police and militia members were killed in the raid, Myaing-PDF said. The Irrawaddy could not independently verify the deaths. PDF video footage shows resistance members trying to take a road in the village amid fierce fighting. The PDF said it was forced to retreat from the village without occupying the junta police station after firing 17,000 rounds during the clash and running short of ammunition. The detained militia have been guaranteed protection by resistance forces if they pledge to abandon their allegiance to the junta, a Myaing-PDF official told the media. On Sept. 27, the Myaing and Pauk PDFs conducted 17 drone strikes on regime forces who were torching houses in Thayatkan Village in Pauk Township. No casualties were reported. As well as daily attacks and ambushes by PDFs and ethnic armed organizations, Myanmar junta forces are facing increasing raids on their military bases and outposts across the country. Burma Depleted Myanmar Military Calls Up Retired Cops to Fill Ranks Members of the Myanmar Police Force crack down on anti-regime protesters in Yangon in February 2021. / The Irrawaddy The Myanmar military is turning to retired policemen to replenish its ranks, in a further sign that desertions and casualties are taking a heavy toll on the regime. Since last years coup, the regimes fighting forces have been seriously depleted by desertions and casualties sustained in daily clashes with Peoples Defense Force (PDF) groups and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), and it has struggled to recruit both officer cadets and privates. The regime has recalled ex-soldiers to paid active duty and formed armed vigilante groups like Pyu Saw Htee militias and peoples security groups. The Myanmar Veteran Police Association was formed in December last year, deputy junta chief Soe Win said as he addressed an event to mark the 58th annual Myanmar Police Force Day on Saturday. Retired police officers, if all of them could be gathered, could serve as a national force, Soe Win said as he elaborated on the purpose of the association. He also called for persuading more retired police officers to join the association. The organization opened its headquarters in Naypyitaw in February. The juntas home affairs minister, Lieutenant General Soe Htut, who is also on the regimes administrative body, the State Administration Council, formally opened the building. Currently, ex-soldiers who have returned to uniform lead militia groups, serve at military checkpoints in towns, and provide security alongside active-duty soldiers, police, militia members and ward and village administrators. Police veterans are also expected to serve the same role as a national force. The Myanmar Police Force has also been hit hard by desertions and casualties. At least 6,000 police have joined the Civil Disobedience Movement, formed by striking civil servants, since the coup. The lauding of the Myanmar Veteran Police Association by Soe Win at a time when police stations are increasingly targeted by resistance forces across the country is surely not a good omen for ex-police officers. In March, the regime enacted a new law making it compulsory for law enforcement officers to fight alongside soldiers on the front lines, while bringing the countrys police force under the control of the military. The regime has also raised the retirement age to 62 from 60. Rome, Italy (PANA) The head of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) office in the Republic of Korea has announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has contributed US$400,000 to Ethiopia for food and nutrition assistance in the northern civil war area Burma Karen Resistance Seizes Seven Myanmar Junta Outposts Since May Special Operation Force fighters after the seizure of Paya Taung outpost on September 28. / SOF The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) Brigade 6, the armed wing of the Karen National Union (KNU), has seized more Myanmar junta outposts in southern Karen State. Resistance forces have seized at least seven junta bases since May, including strategic camps like Thay Baw Boe and Maw Khee. On September 28, the KNLA and Special Operation Force (SOF), which is under the command of the civilian National Unity Government, besieged a junta base near Paya Taung village outside Payathonsu, a border town in southern Karen State. The SOF said at least 30 junta troops were stationed at the outpost and were tormenting residents. Junta troops at the outpost belong to Light Infantry Battalion 283, which is based in Kyainseikgyi on a trade route linking Payathonsu and Kawkareik. We fired for around 15 minutes and told them to surrender. We waited around 45 minutes but they shot back continuously. As they didnt come out, we crushed them in close combat, an SOF information officer told The Irrawaddy. Thirteen junta soldiers, including the second-in-command, were killed and an estimated 17 others fled the outpost, said the KNU in Dooplaya District and the SOF. Paya Taung villagers fled, fearing a junta air attack. KNLA troops also torched a junta outpost at Azin village in the east of Kyainseikgyi Township on September 27. Despite its failed attempt to seize the Ukayit Hta outpost in the south of Myawaddy Township in June, the KNLA has since seized other junta outposts. In early September, KNLA Brigade 6 seized an outpost in Kyeik village in the east of Kyainseikgyi Township where troops from Light Infantry Battalion 557 were stationed. The regime has not yet responded to KNU attacks in Dooplaya District, which is controlled by KNLA Brigade 6, said a senior KNU officer. I dont know what their problems are. They havent yet launched attacks [to retake lost outposts]. Previously, they would respond immediately if an outpost was seized but they are not responding at all now. I dont know if they are undermanned or if they are waiting for the dry season, the officer said. Former captain Lint Htet Aung, who defected after the 2021 coup, said the situation has not changed much in Karen State, despite the appointment of a new commander. On August 19, the Northern Command chief Brigadier General Myat Thet Oo switched positions to lead the Southeastern Command, which oversees Karen State. Capt Lin Htet Aung: The junta cant 100 percent control its ground troops. They are in poor spirits and dont want to fight. There have been surrenders and defections at the front line. And the number of soldiers being arrested has increased. He said the resistance forces did not rush to attack the Karen outposts but cut off supply routes and besieged them. The resistance forces were growing stronger as the regime weakened, Capt Lin Htet Aung said. The regime was unable to carry out immediate air raids in response to KNU attacks on the Kyeik and Paya Taung outposts, he said. Many clashes are happening across the country every day and the junta does not have the resources to provide air power everywhere, he said. The regime, however, is far from complete destruction and still benefits from air superiority, the defecting officer warned. Burma Myanmar Regime Launches Airstrikes to Counter Outpost Seizure Resistance fighters after retreating from a regime airstrike on Sunday. / Supplied Four resistance groups launched an attack on a police outpost in Salingyi Township, Sagaing Region, and Myanmars junta deployed two MI-35s helicopters, according to the armed groups. Myanmar Royal Dragon Army (MRDA), Salingyi Special Taskforce (SST), Yesagyo Peoples Defense Force (PDF) and Myaing PDF attacked on Sunday morning. An estimated 60 regime troops and police were reportedly deployed at the Kyadet village outpost. At least 200 resistance troops had destroyed three of the outposts five bunkers when the helicopters relieved the remaining two bunkers, the resistance forces said. Airstrikes began when they were about to lose the outpost. It is also an important base in the area and it almost fell. The airstrike arrived just in time so we had to fall back, said Ko Phyo of the MRDA. He said the troops are forced to remain in the outpost, which is on the far side of the Chindwin River from Monywa city, and could no longer patrol the township. The junta had at least five deaths and there were two resistance deaths and some injuries, the group said. Pain Nae Sae from SST and Wa Lone from Yesagyo PDF were killed. Hundreds of Kyadet villagers fled when the helicopters attacked for an hour. The helicopters shot at the village again in the afternoon. It is almost empty now. No one dares to go back, said a Kyadet villager who is sheltering in another village. The resistance groups said they did not know about civilian injuries. The police outpost was attacked in April and at least 10 junta casualties were reported by residents. Burma NUG Raises Over US$9 Million Selling Land Illegally Seized by Myanmar Military Mandalay Hill. / The Irrawaddy Myanmars National Unity Government (NUG) has raised over US$9 million in just over two and half days from the sale of land in Mandalay illegally seized by the Myanmar military. To raise funds for the ongoing revolution against the military regime, the NUGs Ministry of Planning, Finance and Investment (MOPFI) launched Spring Mandalay Investment on October 1, a month after a similar scheme was launched in Yangon. Under the new project, MOPFI is auctioning off a total of 980 plots of land in Ye Tagun Taung in Patheingyi Township, east of Mandalay Hill in Aungmyaythazan Township and south of Aung San Suu Kyi Street in Maha Aung Myay Township. All the plots of land were illegally confiscated by the military. As of Monday morning, 579 of the plots almost 60 per cent of the total had been sold, raising almost US$9.3 million. MOPFI said that even before the official launch of the scheme, the ministry had received pre-orders for over 300 plots of land. The belief of the people and their determination and enthusiasm for the revolution is truly amazing, MOPFI said on the Facebook page for the project. The NUG hopes to raise a total of US$24 million from the land sales. MOPFI urged more people to contribute, saying that the military dictatorship will spare no one and is even attacking schools and killing children, and that its atrocities will only end with the success of the revolution. Valued at one-third of the market price, the plots range from US$20,000 to US$800,000, based on their size and location. More details of the project are available here. The ministry said that the plots of land will later be developed into housing projects and that buyers are only required to pay 40 per cent of the price initially, with the remainder to be paid after the success of the revolution. A similar scheme in Yangon has proved equally successful. Some 400 plots of land offered for sale in Thanthumar in Yangons Mayangone Township sold out on the first day they went on sale. The NUG is continuing to sell the remaining plots available in Yangon. In May, the NUG also put junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaings illegally seized property in Yangon at 14 Inya Road on sale, raising US$10 million. Burma Rohingya Teen Killed in Land Mine Blast on Myanmar-Bangladesh Border Rohingya refugees gather near the fence in the "no man's land" zone between the Myanmar and Bangladesh border as seen from Maungdaw, Rakhine State in 2018. / AFP DHAKAA Rohingya teenager was killed and another man injured when a land mine exploded on the Myanmar-Bangladesh border adjacent to Bandarban district, Bangladesh on Sunday morning, officials said Monday. The victim, Omor Farok, 17, was a resident of Konarpara Rohingya camp in no mans land, said community leaders. They named his injured companion as Abdu Yah. Gumdhum Rohingya camp leader Abdur Rohim said the youths had gone fishing on the border when they were caught in the blast. The body of Farok was recovered and buried in Konarpara cemetery. The injured man was rushed to nearby MSF Hospital in Ukhia, Coxs Bazar. Bangladesh Border Guards said the incident occurred about 1 km inside Myanmars border, opposite Bangladesh border marker 35, at about 9 a.m. BGB Coxs Bazar battalion commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Md Mehedi Hussain Kabir reiterated that the explosion occurred inside Myanmars border. The BGB said land mines are not used inside Bangladesh territory as the country is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines. Bangladesh signed the UN convention on May 7, 1998 and ratified it on Sept. 6, 2000. BGB officials said three mines have exploded on the border this year, killing one person and injuring two. Another ethnic minority youth, Aung Thein Tanchangya, was injured in a land mine blast on the same border on Sept. 16. He was sent to Chattogram Medical College Hospital but lost his left leg. Over 4,000 Rohingya have been living in the Bangladesh-Myanmar border strip since 2017 when hundreds of thousands took refuge in Bangladesh following a military crackdown in neighboring Rakhine State. War Against the Junta War Against the Junta: Over 60 Forces Killed in Past Three Days -- More than 60 Myanmar junta forces were reportedly killed as Peoples Defense Force (PDF) groups continued to attack regime forces and military bases in Sagaing, Mandalay and Tanintharyi regions and Rakhine and Mon states in the last three days. The Irrawaddy has rounded up the following reports of significant PDF attacks and junta atrocities. Junta police station raided in Salingyi A fierce clash broke out in Salingyi Township, Sagaing Region on Sunday morning when four local resistance groups attempted to occupy the police station in the town of Kyar Tat, where 40 soldiers and police are stationed. PDF groups abandoned their attempt to occupy the police station after five hours of fighting in which two military helicopter gunships attacked the resistance forces. In the raid, five junta troops and two PDF fighters were killed and some junta weapons were seized by the PDF groups. Pro-regime Telegram channel Fifty Two News reported on Sunday that regime forces managed to protect their police station from the raid by 200 PDF members. 10 junta soldiers killed in PDF raid in Monywa The resistance group Scorpions-PDF claimed on Monday that 10 regime soldiers were killed and five injured during a raid by three PDF groups on a police station in Nyaung Phyu Pin Village in Monywa Township, Sagiang Region at 2 a.m. on Sunday morning. However, they failed to occupy the police outpost. Military convoy ambushed in Sagaing The Peoples Army to Fight Dictatorship (PAFD) claimed to have ambushed a military convoy of five vehicles on a highway in Myinmu Township, Sagaing Region using 10 land mines on Sunday morning. Escorted by two military vehicles, three small vehicles believed to have been carrying senior army officers were traveling to Monywa from Sagaing. The operation was jointly conducted by four resistance groups. Many regime troops are believed to have been injured or killed in the attack, the PAFD said. 15 junta soldiers reportedly killed in PDF ambush in Myaung Fifteen military troops were reportedly killed in Myaung Township, Sagaing Region when two resistance groups triggered six land mines to ambush a military convoy of six vehicles traveling on the Sagaing-Monywa highway on Sunday morning. The convoy also faced aerial bombardment by a PDF drone, said Bo Tiger Group, which ambushed the convoy. The group said two ambulances made two trips to transport the bodies of soldiers to the hospital. Junta court bombed in Yangon Sanchaung-PDF claimed to have bombed the junta court on Baho Road in Sanchaung Township, Yangon Region on Sunday evening using remote-controlled mines. It was a warning attack against those who are contributing to military rule, the group said. Military checkpoint raided in Taungtha Six regime forces were killed in Taungtha Township, Mandalay Region on Saturday night when three PDF groups raided 15 regime forces manning a military checkpoint at the entrance of Taungtha town, said Myingyan District Army, the PDF group that coordinated the attack. Four dead bodies of soldiers were immediately cremated and two other bodies were taken away in a vehicle, the group said. Six junta soldiers killed or injured in Pinlebu At least six junta soldiers were killed or injured during two days of firefights when Pinlebu-PDF clashed with regime forces in Pinlebu Township, Sagaing Region on Saturday and last Friday, said Pinlebu Revolution (PR), the media wing of the PDF. Two resistance fighters also suffered injuries, the PR said. Six regime troops killed in Myingyan Six regime forces including an army officer were killed in Myingyan Township, Mandalay Region early on Saturday when nine resistance groups raided a military outpost at Myauk Kyun Village, said Myingyan Ranger, which coordinated the attack. During the raid, many regime forces abandoned the outpost. A video shows resistance fighters occupying a building where regime forces were stationed. Two junta police officers abducted in Rakhine A police captain and a sergeant were arrested by the Arakan Army (AA) in Ponnakyun Township, Rakhine State on Saturday as they were having a drink at a restaurant, according to Western News, a local media outlet. Police forces reportedly have to arrest local residents who are wanted by the military regime in the township. Eight junta soldiers including two army officers killed in Mawlaik Eight military regime troops including a captain and a second lieutenant were killed during a clash with the Mawlaik-PDF near Toonpin Village in Mawlaik Township, Sagaing Region last Friday, reported local media Mawlake News. Eight firearms and ammunition were also seized in the shootout, the media outlet said. 2,111 houses torched by regime forces in Taze A total of 2,111 houses were burned down in Taze Township, Sagaing Region between May 2021 and October 2022 as junta soldiers and pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia torched a total of 64 villages of the township, Taze News, a local media outlet documenting junta arson attacks, reported on Saturday. In the attacks, five villages were completely burned down. Meanwhile, a total of 68 civilians were killed and a woman was raped by junta troops in the township, the media outlet said. Four pro-regime militia members killed in Tanintharyi Four pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia members were killed during a clash with the Launglon-PDF in Launglon Township, Tanintharyi Region last Thursday, the PDF group said on Sunday. A rifle and an improvised gun were seized along with ammunition, the PDF said. Three junta policemen killed in Mon State A local police station chief and two constables were killed in an ambush on their vehicle in Mon States Ye Township last Friday, according to the resistance group Ye Belu, which conducted the ambush. Two guns and ammunition were also seized. Analysis Myanmar Military Unable to Fight Without Air and Artillery Support Regime soldiers parade on Armed Forces Day in March 2021. The junta army The Myanmar military is going through the worst days in its history. The combat capability of individual battalions has declined substantially, the ratio of old to young soldiers is increasing and morale is declining. Military regime forces are barely able to fight now without artillery and air support. The military is also struggling to recruit both officer cadets and privates, forcing the junta to field firefighters, police and administrative employees as security personnel, as well as the pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia. As to the ethics and principles of the Myanmar military, junta troops are now deservedly dubbed as armed robbers after they have looted countless houses and torched numerous villages. Even in towns, where their crimes are easier to document, junta troops do not hesitate to steal personal belongings from the houses they raid. And the military are also kidnappers, detaining people just to extort ransoms. Currently, the juntas army is an unethical and undisciplined force whose future seems certain to be bad. Revolt across Myanmar By September 2022, fighting has been reported across the country. In Kachin State, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied Peoples Defense Forces (PDFs) are fighting across the state except in Chipwi, Panwa and Phimaw townships near the border with China. The regime is also facing armed revolt across Chin State in western Myanmar, where the long-established ethnic armed organization (EAO) the Chin National Army is fighting junta troops alongside new resistance groups such as the Chinland Defense Force. Military tensions have been escalating in Rakhine State in western Myanmar since June. The Arakan Army, which has emerged as one of the most powerful EAOs in recent years, is fighting the regime in fierce battles in Maungdaw Township in northern Rakhine and in neighboring Paletwa Township in Chin State. Fighting has been reported across Kayah (Karenni), Karen and Mon states. The Karenni Army, the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force and PDFs are fighting junta soldiers in Kayah, while the Karen National Union (KNU), Myanmars oldest ethnic armed group, and PDFs are fighting the regime in Karen and Mon states. However, the New Mon State Party has avoided joining the battle against the junta. In northern Shan State, tensions are also increasing with the KIA, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Taang National Liberation Army, the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) and PDFs all active. SSPP fighters clashed with regime troops earlier this month in northern Shan. There is currently no fighting in southern and eastern Shan State. Another Shan EAO, the Restoration Council of Shan State, is based in southern Shan State, while the United Wa State Army and the National Democratic Alliance Army are based in eastern Shan State. Sagaing Region has emerged as the key PDF stronghold, while resistance is also strong in neighboring Magwe Region, especially in Pakokku, Gangaw, Thayet and Minbu to the west of the Ayeyarwady River. In Mandalay Region, clashes are taking place in Myingyan, Thabeikkyin and Kyaukse, as well as in the city of Mandalay itself. Further south in Bago Region, the KNU and PDFs are fighting the regime in Bago, Taungoo and Nyaunglebin in eastern Bago and in Thayawady in western Bago. Improvised explosive device attacks are frequent in a number of Yangon townships, including Taikkyi, Twante and Thanlyin districts. Fighting has been also reported in Dawei and Myeik districts in Tanintharyi Region. But the resistance movement is less active in Kawthaung and Bokpyin. Only is Ayeyarwady Region relatively quiet, with resistance limited to the east of the Rakhine Mountain Range. Junta troop deployments The Myanmar military has 14 regional commands. There are tactical operation commands under each regional command. And there are also regional operation commands in areas overseen by six regional commands where the military is engaged in active operations. There are up to 37 infantry and light infantry battalions based in fixed locations under each regional command, with a total of more than 200 battalions under 14 commands. Moreover, there are ten divisions under the direct control of the office of the army commander-in-chief and 20 military operations commands (MOCs). Each Light Infantry Division (LID) is made up of ten infantry and light infantry battalions. So there are a total of 300 battalions in the Myanmar military. It is believed that each battalion has around 150 troops available for combat. Those ten divisions under the direct control of the army chief plus 20 MOCs are maneuver units designed to assist the operations of the regional command battalions as necessary. Those ground troops are supported by more than 100 artillery battalions scattered across the 14 regional commands. So in ground military operations, the infantry, light infantry and artillery battalions are the backbone of the military. As of mid-September, the Myanmar military has deployed its units as follows: In Kachin State: local battalions under Northern Command plus four LIDs and MOCs including the 33rd and 88th LIDs and 3rd and 21st MOCs. In Chin State: local battalions under Western Command plus the 19th MOC. In Rakhine State: local battalions under Western Command plus a total of seven LIDs and MOCs including the 11th, 22nd, 55th and 77th LIDs and 5th, 9th and 15th MOCs. In Kayah State: local battalions under Eastern Command plus the 66th LID. In Karen and Mon states: local battalions under Southeastern Command plus five LIDs and MOCs including the 44th LID and 6th, 8th, 13th and 20th MOCs. In northern Shan State: local battalions under Northeastern Command plus seven LIDs and MOCs including the 99th Division, 1st, 2nd, 7th, 12th, 16th and 17th MOCs. In southern and eastern Shan State: local battalions under Eastern Command and Golden Triangle Region Command plus the 14th and 18th MOCs. In Sagaing Region: the 4th and 10th MOCs. In Magwe Region: the 101st LID. The military has deployed the largest number of LIDs and MOCs in Shan and Rakhine states, with seven in Rakhine and seven in northern Shan State. From the deployments, it can be seen that the military has been forced to use all 30 LIDs and MOCs, as well as local battalions, to fight resistance forces. The Myanmar military is seriously undermanned and has been forced to form companies out of combat support units such as logistics, communications, military engineering, ordnance factories and training units, who are attached to combat units from the infantry and light infantry battalions. Moreover, it has been using police in operations, as well as forming militia units. From its troop deployments, the Myanmar military apparently attaches great importance to northern Shan and Rakhine states. Considering that the military has deployed all of its maneuver units into action, it seems to be a tough decision for the army to take some units out of the LIDs and MOCs to use as reinforcements in case of fierce fighting elsewhere. No more than two battalions can be used for reinforcements from each LID and MOCs, because it is believed that sending more will affect the balance of forces in any particular area. In Ayeyarwady Region, the only area relatively free of fighting, the military may be able to use local battalions under Southwestern Command if necessary. Since last years coup, the Myanmar military can no longer concentrate all of its forces and resources in a single area, as it is now engaged in a war on multiple fronts. The military has been forced into a defensive position in which it only maintains control of cities, transportation routes and strategic hilltop bases. Moreover, it has increasingly been forced to rely on airpower for defense. The military can no longer afford to send reinforcements for its ground troops, instead it has to rely on air and artillery support. Nor has the military been able to retake outposts that it has lost to EAOs and resistance forces. It is too overstretched to handle the armed revolt across the country now. Banyar Aung is a political and ethnic affairs analyst. The Melbourne event comes hot on the heels of Comms Connect New Zealand, which was held at Te Pae Convention Centre in Christchurch from 2223 June. Over 450 comms industry professionals and vendors attended that event, which featured presentations from NZ Police, LandSAR, RSM, Aerospace Christchurch, Hilton Haulage, ioSphere IoT, WISPA NZ and many more industry experts. The co-located exhibition showcased the latest products and solutions from leading vendors from across the region, while the RFUANZ Gala Awards dinner held as part of the event saw over 200 attendees entertained by local celebrity Jason Gunn. The October event to be held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre will also feature something of a Kiwi presence, as the conference will welcome a keynote presentation and expert panel from New Zealands newly formed Public Safety Network. The Public Safety Network is the new communications service that will be used by New Zealands frontline emergency services responders Fire and Emergency, Police, St John and Wellington Free Ambulance. One of the leads in this integration project is Neal Richardson from NZ Police, who will be one of two keynotes to open the program for Comms Connect Melbourne on 20 October. His colleagues from PSN NZ will join him in a panel discussion at the event to cover lessons learnt, and positive outcomes so far achieved by the project. The second keynote speaker for 20 October is Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons from Resilience NSW, who will speak on the timely subject of the future of disaster management. Managing Director of the NSW Telco Authority Kylie De Courteney will deliver the opening keynote on 19 October, following her recent presentation at Critical Communications World in Vienna in June; while the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications, will formally open the event. The second keynote for 19 October will feature the CTO of the First Responders Network USA, Richard Reed, with an update on all things related to public safety comms from the other side of the Pacific. Other conference sessions will cover topics including the use of drones for mission-critical applications and tower management; the cybersecurity implications and management challenges of IT/OT/IoT; updates from the DMR Association and the ACMA; 5G; and much more. To view the full conference program, visit https://melbourne.comms-connect.com.au/program/. While the conference itself will be held from 1920 October, industry partners ARCIA and ACCF will be offering pre-conference training workshops on 18 October. ARCIA will offer a morning session on power supply options for communications systems, including solar and battery options, providing students with the skills to be able to recognise and understand the key elements and components of a typical AC/DC radio communication power system. Attendees should be able to understand and identify the risks associated with live working on AC and DC systems and understand the correct procedures for managing those risks. ARCIA will also offer an afternoon session on the fundamentals of private LTE/5G, providing students with the skills to be able to outline the key elements and components of a typical wireless broadband communication system. On completion students should be able to understand and identify the various elements associated with system design, including the relevant spectrum sectors that are associated with wireless broadband, and understand the potential outcomes that are relevant to all options. ACCF will hold its training session on the latest innovations in critical LMR, critical broadband 4G/5G and control centres. The half-day workshop will feature 10 presentations on topics including global initiatives to support critical LMR/broadband transformation; moving from critical LMR narrowband to broadband technologies, or utilising both; integrated solutions and applications; and initiatives and global trends in control room solutions, standards, market forces and operational requirements. For more information and to register for the training workshops, visit https://melbourne.comms-connect.com.au/workshops/. The co-located exhibition will meanwhile feature over 80 local and international vendors headlined by event partner Nokia and platinum sponsors Hypha and Simoco Wireless Solutions giving attendees the chance to get up close and personal with leading suppliers and their latest products. The exhibition hall will also host networking drinks on the evening of 19 October, which will be followed in the Convention Centres Sovereign Room by ARCIAs Gala Dinner and Industry Excellence Awards. With so much having changed in the world of critical communications since 2019, Comms Connect Melbourne provides a great opportunity to get back in the loop and connect with industry peers from near and far. It promises to be an event that is not to be missed register now at https://melbourne.comms-connect.com.au/. What: Comms Connect Melbourne When: 1820 October 2022 Where: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre Web: https://melbourne.comms-connect.com.au/ When even National Party MP Barnaby Joyce, not a politician known for his technological nous, seems to know the Optus attack was not in any way sophisticated, then the telco really does have a big problem. Surprisingly, Optus chief executive Kelly Bayer Rosmarin does not seem to be aware of this basic fact and needs a so-called independent review to find out what world+dog now knows. The Australian quoted Joyce as saying (when and where the man made this pronouncement wasn't specified, but then it rarely is): It wasnt a very sophisticated way to get into the Optus information and therefore, they have absolutely compromised their capacity to do their job, their duty of stewardship to their customers in protecting their privacy. That Optus has to rely on Deloittes to work out how the data breach happened is perhaps a strong hint as to why the data breach happened. Anthony B, (@swearyanthony) October 3, 2022 And theyre holding information for people who are no longer even clients or customers of theirs. As Tanya (Plibersek) said, they [send] you your bill on time so why cant they protect your privacy? The same publication informed readers that while Optus customers and former customers were worrying about their stolen data, Bayer Rosmarin was in Bowral from Friday night onwards "no doubt hoping to enjoy a bit of R & R at her $4m luxury estate following a week of turmoil". Now that's what you have to admire in a chief executive: the ability to relax and take a break after putting the personal data of 10 million Australians at risk. You and I just couldn't summon up that degree of nonchalance, gentle reader. Warren Brown's Optus cyber attack cartoon. What I did on school holidays... pic.twitter.com/w8K5WVoivR MissT (@ambiguityx7) October 3, 2022 The story went into excruciating detail, even to the extent of mentioning the colour of the fence to which Bayer Rosmarin's husband tied their dog when attending an event. Overnight, Optus sent out a second email to customers affected by the breach, saying: "Cyberattack update: Confirming only the licence number on your driver licence was exposed, not the card number. Your state or territory government will provide advice on any action that you may need to take via their website. The company appears to be unaware that in Victoria the licence number and the card number are one and the same. Hiring Deloitte is an indication that this affair is going to drag on and on, the old Google tactic of kicking the can down the road. Google, remember, dragged a court case against Oracle on for more than a decade and finally won it. What will Deloitte be able to tell us that reams and reams of coverage have not? Very little, apart from more spin, probably of a higher grade than we have seen from Bayer Rosmarin. Optus is a test case for the Feceral Government. If it lets the company get away with these delaying tactics, reviews, recommendations and committee meetings, then the Labor Party will end up looking very foolish indeed. This Week in Review A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more. 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 Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. At least 92 people have been killed nationwide in Iran's crackdown on two weeks of protests that erupted following the death of Mahsa Amini who had been arrested by the morality police, the Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) NGO said on Sunday. And at least 41 people were separately killed by the Iranian security forces in clashes that erupted last week in the city of Zahedan in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, it said. "The killing of protesters in Iran, especially in Zahedan, amounts to crimes against humanity," said IHR director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam. "The international community has a duty to investigate this crime and prevent further crimes from being committed by the Islamic Republic." Its previous toll had said 83 people were confirmed to have been killed in the protests that have shaken Iran since the death of Amini, amid continued severe disruptions to the Internet. But in what IHR described as "Zahedan's bloody Friday", the NGO also accused the security forces of "bloodily repressing" a protest that erupted on Friday after prayers in the city. It said that the protest was sparked by accusations that a police chief in the port city of Chabahar, also in Sistan-Baluchistan province, had raped a 15-year-old girl from the Sunni Baluch minority. The identities of those killed had been confirmed by the regional NGO Baluch Activists Campaign (BAC), it added, saying this meant at least 133 people had been killed in total during protests in Iran over the last fortnight. Accounts posted on social media at the time had spoken of dozens of dead in Zahedan on Friday while images had shown overwhelmed hospitals and bloodied corpses. Some reports have said protesters sought to take control of certain streets but this is not possible to confirm. Neighbouring Pakistan, Sistan-Baluchistan is one of Iran's poorest regions and home to the Baluch minority who mostly adhere to Sunni Islam and not the Shiism that dominates Iran. Activists have over the last months complained that Baluch convicts were being executed in disproportionate numbers as hangings surged in the Islamic Republic. Iran says five members of the Revolutionary Guards were killed in Zahedan in what official media described as a "terrorist incident". State media said on Saturday that 19 people had been killed in total. This Wednesday, September 28, 2022, a relentless sun blazed on the ad hoc tribunal and the tiny courtyard in front of its entrance. Tents were set up here for Guinean officials, foreign diplomats and members of international organizations. The president of the National Transitional Council (CNT) - Guinea's post-coup national assembly was there, and some influential figures from the ruling junta, the CNRD, such as Colonel Balla Samoura, head of the gendarmerie. Also present were the UN Secretary General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence, Pramila Patten, and the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan. He welcomed this moment, adding that "this is only the beginning of a process", and promising that the ICC would follow it "very closely. They had all come to attend the opening ceremony and start of the trial on the September 28, 2009 massacre, which left at least 156 people dead and hundreds injured. Guinea's strongman for the past year, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, did not attend, although he had been expected. In the courtroom, chairs were set up to replace those that were supposed to be there but whose delivery had been delayed. The floor and mezzanine were full up with people. Arriving last, journalists tried to find a place to position their cameras. Dozens of Guinean media were present, as well as a handful of foreign journalists. At 3 p.m. people suddenly stopped talking and all eyes turned to the man who had just made his entrance. International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khan (right) at the inauguration of the ad hoc tribunal in Conakry, Guinea, on 28 September 2022. He is sitting next to Pramila Patten, the UN Secretary General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence. Matthias Raynal A former head of state in the dock Moussa Dadis Camara, who was in power from December 2008 to January 2010, walked calmly towards a glass booth. It was 3.15 p.m. when the trial opened with the roll call of the defendants. From a podium decorated with the three national colours, a judge in red robe and white collar read the charges against the former head of state. "You are appearing before this court for having (...), with full knowledge of the facts, by provocation, and provision of instructions, participated in the murders and assassinations committed" in and around a stadium in the suburbs of Conakry on September 28, 2009, said court president Ibrahima Sory Tounkara to Captain Camara and then, in turn, the ten other co-accused present. All of them were military and government agents at the time. The court president chose not to ask them whether they pleaded guilty or not. These soldiers and gendarmes of various ranks are accused of a litany of crimes: sexual violence, torture, kidnapping, arson and looting. The audience was plunged into the horror as the court recounted that September 28 and the days that followed, the murder of peaceful demonstrators, the wounded who were prevented from receiving treatment in Conakry's clinics, and the rapes of many women. This is a trial for history," the court said, giving exceptional authorization to film during the hearing. All TV channels, whether private or public, broadcast the same images in Guinea. The hopes and fears of women victims The defendants were invited to take the stand one by one. They were asked for family name, first name, marital status, professional status. When it was Moussa Dadis Camara's turn, he got up slowly to stand in front of the varnished wooden desk. May I keep my glasses on?" he asked the court president politely. Camara answered the questions in a small voice. As he listened to the charges, he remained impassive. But once back on his bench, he could not keep still, searching his pockets frantically, playing with his oversized gold bracelet. On him were the eyes of dozens of women who were sexually abused at the Conakry stadium. They were everywhere in the audience. "We were much more affected than the men," confided one of them just before the start of the hearing. "September 28, 2009 is an unforgettable day for me. It's been 13 years to the day, so I'm really happy to be at the opening of this trial. We have been fighting all this time, and I never thought this day would come. I pray to God that this trial will come to an end without any problems. Maybe this trial will ensure that something like this never happens again in our country. She says she is here to get "reparation". She is still struggling to put into words what happened to her, and has not yet decided whether she will testify during the trial. One of the challenges of this trial will be how the media cover it and use of the victims' image. By coming forward, these women risk renewed rejection, shame and stigmatization. On the day of this initial hearing, Guinean journalists were busy discussing this. Should they be there, or was this trial so sensitive that it should be held behind closed doors? What measures have been taken to allow victims to testify anonymously, as the defendants continue to cause fear, particularly the former head of the junta. Indeed, one of the victims said she did not want to reveal her identity for fear of possible reprisals. "Justice is peace It was almost 6 p.m. when the parties were given the floor. The defence lawyers asked for a postponement of the case to allow them to better prepare. They claim to have received the details of the investigation file only the day before, on a USB key. This was the only moment of unanimity between all the lawyers present: "We do not want a summary trial in which the rights of the defence are not respected," said Martin Pradel, lawyer for the civil parties. The trial was therefore postponed to October 4. "I am satisfied. This is the beginning. Today was the launch, and now the time has come for us to do technical work," said Fode Mohamed Beavogui, lawyer for two defendants, as he left the hearing. "I am proud of Guinea, said a victim in her forties. We are Guineans and we are going to judge Guineans. We are beginning to enter the rule of law. For there to be peace in a country, there must be justice. Justice is peace. THE 12 ACCUSED AND THEIR POSITION AT THE TIME OF THE EVENTS Moussa Dadis Camara, self-proclaimed head of state of Guinea. Aboubakar Sidiki Diakite, known as "Toumba", former aide-de-camp to Moussa Dadis Camara. Moussa Tiegboro Camara, gendarmerie colonel, at the time minister in charge of the fight against drugs and organized crime. Abdoulaye Cherif Diaby, army colonel, Minister of Health and Public Hygiene. Claude Pivi, known as "Coplan", army colonel in charge of presidential security. Marcel Guilavogui, military officer, deputy to Lieutenant Toumba. Cece Raphael Haba, soldier and bodyguard of Moussa Dadis Camara. Alpha Amadou Balde, gendarme, secretary of the commando regiment. Mamadou Aliou Keita, gendarme. Ibrahima Camara, known as "Kalonzo", gendarme. Blaise Gomou, gendarme, member of the anti-drug brigade. Paul Mansa Guilavogui, soldier. NEW YORK, Oct. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) Bragar Eagel & Squire, PC, a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm, is investigating potential claims against FedEx Corp. FDXOpendoor Technologies, Inc. OPENF45 Training Holdings, Inc. FXLVand PROG Holdings, Inc. PRG. Our investigations address whether these companies have violated federal securities laws and/or engaged in other illegal business practices. For more information on each case, see the link provided. fedex corp FDX FedEx released its preliminary first-quarter results on September 15, 2022. The company warned of a global slowdown in its delivery business and is closing stores and postponing hiring to counteract the decline. The company also warned that it will miss profitability targets and expects business conditions to deteriorate. Based on this news, shares of FedEx plummeted more than 22% in intraday trading on September 16, 2022. For more information on the FedEx investigation, go to: https://bespc.com/cases/FDX Opendoor Technologies, Inc. OPEN On September 19, 2022, Bloomberg, citing a review of industry data, reported that Opendoor appeared to have lost money on 42% of its transactions in August 2022 (measured by the prices at which it bought and sold properties). Bloomberg further reported that the data was even worse in key markets like Los Angeles, where Opendoor lost money on 55% of sales, and Phoenix, where it lost money on 76% of sales. According to the Bloomberg report, Opendoors share price fell $0.50 per share, or 12.32%, in the following two trading sessions to close at $3.56 per share on September 20, 2022. You can find more information about the Opendoor investigation at: https://bespc.com/cases/OPEN F45 Training Holdings, Inc. FXLV On or about July 15, 2021, F45 Training completed its initial public offering (IPO), selling 18.75 million shares at a price of $16.00 per share. Then, on July 26, 2022, F45 issued a press release With her growing popularity abroad, Korean actress Park Eun Bin is expected to leave South Korea for the USA for this important reason. Curious about what the actress will do abroad? Then read on! Park Eun Bin Wins Rising Star Award For K-Drama 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' In a news cited by a media outlet on October 3, K-drama star Park Eun Bin bagged the Rising Star Award at an event hosted by the American Film Critics Association (CCA). According to the mentioned association on September 30, Park Eun Bin was chosen as the Rising Star recipient at the Asia Pacific Cinema & TV Founding Celebration (APCT) through its official social media account. The female star is expected to leave Korea for Los Angeles to personally receive the award this coming November. A big thanks to her impeccable performance in ENA's channel drama "Extraordinary Attorney Woo," Park Eun Bin stole the spotlight and received lots of attention in Korea and abroad. Another big part of her booming career is that her drama was also shown on the huge online streaming platform Netflix to which more than 150 countries have subscribed. This gave a big potential for Eun Bin to be known by various viewers across the globe. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Song Joong Ki Wins Daesang for 'Vincenzo' at 2022 APAN Star Awards + Full List of Winners She was able to express her quirky yet heartwarming character well in the record-breaking K-series. And as her popularity continues, the "Do You Like Brahms?" star will have her Asian fan meeting tour starting October 23, in Manila, Philippines. Korean Artists Who Also Received Recognition Abroad Apart from the actress, there are also Korean artists who bag awards at the same event. Starting from Director Park Chan Wook, received the Director Award. He also won the Best Director Award at the 75th Cannes International Film Festival for the movie "The Decision to Break Up." Creative genius Hwang Dong Hyuk, who helmed the phenomenal K-drama "Squid Game," won the TV Director Award. Mr. Hwang also won the Emmy Award last September for the said Netflix show. Lastly, Korean-American producer Sue Hue bagged the Showrunner Award for her Emmy-nominated Apple TV Plus series "Pachinko," headlined by Korean superstar, Lee Min Ho. In addition, APCT is an awards ceremony for films and TV programs that have achieved notable achievements in the Asia Pacific region this 2022. Meanwhile, The Critics' Choice Awards, which are hosted by the American Critics Association, have been held just this year. Furthermore, the award ceremony will occur on November 4 at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, USA. What can you say about Park Eun Bin's newest achievement? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity updates, follow KDramastars on Twitter and Facebook! KDramastars owns this article. Shai Collins wrote this. Is it true that "True Beauty" Season 2 is coming? The famous webtoon's creator finally gave updates regarding the possible sequel of the series! 'True Beauty' Author Gives Update on the Webtoon According to Yonhap on October 1, webtoon artist Yaongyi confirmed that she already finished completing her masterpiece, "True Beauty." The writer attended the Bucheon International Comics Festival and mentioned to her fans that she had a hard time doing the final episode of the story. "True Beauty" was serialized in 2018 and eventually became popular in Korea and abroad. As an update, the webtoon was already completed in September this year, which has a total of 223 chapters! Yaongyi Reveals the Changes She Made in Completing 'True Beauty' According to Yaongyi, the most touching part of the story for her was the episode in which cover makeup was applied to an aunt who had scars. The webtoon author said that the content was written at the beginning of the series, and many people around her were also moved by it. Meanwhile, contrary to the original idea, Soo Jin was chosen as the villain character, which later on changed during the serialization. The writer said that at first, she wanted to create a villain role, but as she continued and gave narratives of each character, some things changed. Yaongyi added that the drawing style and story of "True Beauty" was refined little by little while checking the reactions of the readers. She explained that her drawing is different from the early days because she adjusted according to people's needs. Is 'True Beauty' Drama Ready for Season 2? Since the webtoon is already complete, many are anticipating whether the sequel for the drama is also in the works. However, Yaongyi is yet to confirm if "True Beauty" Season 2 is ready for production, if the original cast will reprise their roles, and who are the new characters to be introduced in the possible second installment of the famous K-drama. The author also shared that after finishing "True Beauty," she had a lot of ideas for her next work, but she's still deciding what kind of genre she will be doing soon. On the other hand, "True Beauty" was adapted into a drama in 2020 which starred brilliant stars Moon Ga Young, Cha Eun Woo, and Hwang In Yeop. The trio gave life to the characters which was well-received by the audience. In particular, Hwang In Yeop had his biggest career breakthrough through this series. He now has multiple projects and even began his fan meetings as he is establishing a fandom in various countries, such as the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, and more. What are your thoughts about the possible "True Beauty" drama sequel? Tell us in the comments! For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity updates, follow and subscrine to KDramastars. KDramastars owns this article. Shai Collins wrote this. Blood, death and betrayal fill the latest episode of "Little Women," taking the viewers at the edge of their seats. Will Wi Ha Joon betray Kim Go Eun? Find out by reading more! 'Little Women' Episode 9: The Oh Sisters' Rebellion In episode 9 of "Little Women," Won Sang Ah (Uhm Ji Won) shows her true colors. When Oh In Joo (Kim Go Eun) is addlepated because of the blue orchid, she orders her men to kill her. Luckily, Choi Do Il (Wi Ha Joon) arrives who's on call with Park Jae Sang (Uhm Ki Joon), telling him that Oh In Kyung (Nam Ji Hyun) threatens her with the ledgers. Back in South Korea, the ledgers are burned in exchange for Oh In Joo's life. Oh In Kyung feels extremely betrayed as her chance of exposing the Jeongran Society slips away from her hand. Oh In Joo then asks Choi Do Il to give her sisters their fair share of money from the 70 billion KRW, and orders them to go to other countries along with Park Hyo Rin (Jeon Chae Eun). Meanwhile, Oh In Kyung teams up with Choi Do Il's father in taking down Park Jae Sang. At the same time, Won Sang Ah seduces her husband and tells him to kill Oh In Kyung. With that said, Park Jae Sang orders his men to hunt Oh In Kyung and kill her. On the other hand, Oh In Hye (Park Ji Hu) wakes up in a room very similar to Won Sang Ah's miniature model. At the end of the episode, it is revealed that Oh In Kyung enters the psychiatric hospital as Oh In Joo to meet up with Won Sang Ah's father, who's adamant to take down Park Jae Sang, too. Won Sang Ah's father lures Park Jae Sang at "a place where they shared a memory" and points a gun at the latter. 'Little Women' Episode 10: The Truth About Park Jae Sang In episode 10, Oh In Joo successfully saves her youngest sister after she was held captive by Won Sang Ah. The following day, Park Jae Sang begins his campaign for the forthcoming elections. In their mansion, Won Sang Ah reads a letter from Park Hyo Rin, expressing her unhappiness inside their huge home which made her decide to leave. Won Sang Ah then tells Oh In Joo not to trust Choi Do Il. Park Jae Sang convinces Choi Do Il to turn against his father in exchange for her mother's freedom, to which the latter accepts. He then lures his father and bombs the place, leaving immediately with his mother. Elsewhere, Oh In Kyung stirs buzz as she reveals that Park Jae Sang's father is a murderer. It is revealed that the murder that Choi Do Il's mother was framed up for was actually done by Park Jae Sang's father. Oh In Joo also realizes that Choi Do Il meticulously planned everything without her knowledge, feeling a bit betrayed. During Park Jae Sang's campaign, the scene where he killed Won Sang Ah's father was flashed on the screen, showing his true colors. To turn things around, the news of Park Jae Sang taking his own life puts Oh In Kyung under a microscope. Meanwhile, Oh In Joo checks her bank account and to her surprise, the 70 billion KRW is nowhere to be found. KDramastars owns this article. Written by Elijah Mully. Kennesaw States Year of New Zealand helps students explore the world on campus KENNESAW, Ga. | Oct 3, 2022 Eleven dancers with intense eyes sang and chanted as part of the opening ceremonies that kicked off Kennesaw States Year of New Zealand programs. Some of the traditionally dressed dancers held staves, harkening back to the spiritual rituals of the Maori warriors that date back centuries. The event, organized by KSU Global Education, included remarks from Ian Latham, honorary consul to New Zealand in Atlanta. As customary in New Zealand, Latham touched noses with Sheb True, KSUs associate vice provost for global engagement, professional education and strategic initiatives, as a gesture of welcome and mutual respect. Ian Latham Since 1984, Kennesaw States Year of program has annually celebrated different countries around the globe by providing the KSU community and public a chance to learn about unique cultures and their people without having to leave campus. Japan was the programs inaugural country. The purpose of the program is truly to internationalize the campus, said Tara McDuffie, executive director of Global Education, formerly the Division of Global Affairs. We want to showcase the rich and diverse cultures across the globe. It helps us to see similarities in how were connected but also to see differences, allowing for reflection, growth and change. Were able to change individual perspectives and grow understanding among the KSU community. Year of programming typically includes cultural events, lectures from well-known scholars and public officials, study abroad programs and dedicated classes. This year offers an array of events in the fall and spring aimed at enhancing the understanding of New Zealand and its unique culture: themed rugby games with meat pie refreshments, an October lecture titled Turangawaewae: Identity and Belonging in New Zealand, and a Lord of the Rings movie screening exploring the countryside used for the shooting of the blockbuster film series by New Zealander Peter Jackson. Planning for each years events includes ensuring food, music, dance, history, sport and academic opportunities that span a wide variety of interests and draw students from all backgrounds, said Lola Owokoniran, Global Educations director of community engagement and outreach. Though the program can offer travel opportunities for students, dedicating an entire academic year to a particular country or region gives all students a chance to enhance their understanding of a new culture, develop interculture competencies and build partnerships with people from diverse communities, she said. Past countries and regions of the world have included Morocco, India, Russia, the Portuguese Speaking World, Arabian Peninsula and Ghana. Students staff, faculty and members of the public can stay up-to-date on Year of New Zealand events and RSVP by visiting the Global Education website. By Thomas Hartwell Photos by Matt Yung Related Stories A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its nearly 43,000 students. With 11 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses, Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 6 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu. 154 Shares Share Back in the 1980s, I had a longtime patient, age about 30, that came to my office for severe back pain. She previously had some mild back pain and had no orthopedic evaluation. Otherwise, she was in good health without any other health issues. She could barely walk upright, so I sent her to the orthopedic physician I normally referred my patients to the same day. He sent her back to my office two hours later, had done an exam without obvious serious medical problems, and had refused to prescribe narcotic pain medicine. Now she is in more pain and extremely angry at him and at me for referring her there. I discovered that he was strongly against using narcotic-type meds to treat serious pain for his own reasons, which I was never made aware of. I prescribed the narcotic pain medicine so she could get home and a few days to let the pain subside. She never has any signs of narcotic addiction nor a history of that. I was disappointed in the orthopedic physician and his lack of sympathy for the patient. I knew that I would never send him another patient. I thought he had become so fearful of inciting addiction or being accused of contributing to any patients addiction that he was willing to compromise his pain treatment to prevent his fears. In the mid-1980s, California passed a law requiring all pharmacies to track the narcotic prescriptions they filled and the physician name who prescribed them. They were required to report any levels of prescriptions, dosage, and frequency prescribed that suggested a physician was supplementing the addiction of patients. There were reports of some narcotic agency raids on doctors offices and physician punishments. It involved rare physicians but has compromised a large area of medical care since then. My concern has always been about practicing medicine in a way that reduced the patients pain significantly for a short time, which enabled my patients to recover from major surgical procedures almost pain-free, as well as reduce pain by providing time to be seen by a consultant and treated. I researched the medical literature on addiction and discovered things about narcotic addiction that we are never taught and only learn about later in medical practice. I would venture to say that the following information about narcotic addiction should be used to the full extent in medical practice by physicians to relieve pain in patients safely, legally, and properly. Unfortunately, many practicing physicians have never been made aware of these issues, it seems to me. Physiological narcotic addiction vs. psychological narcotic addiction When physicians are knowledgeable about this topic, I think it would alleviate the pain we treat almost daily in a manner that will enable an enormous number of patients with significant pain, chronic pain, and recurrent pain to tolerate their pain and live relatively normal livespatients that today are frequently being denied good enough pain medication because of threats to physicians, fears of physicians, and ignorance of physicians regarding narcotic prescribing. Physiological addiction to narcotics is quite different from psychological addiction in several ways. Suppose a physician decides to treat a patient with significant long-term pain with narcotic doses enough to give the patient the ability to live a normal life. In that case, their care can be adjusted to different levels of narcotic doses and mix the narcotic types as well. Physiological addiction is the acceptable amount of specific narcotic medication when stopped or withdrawn, rarely involves any withdrawal symptoms or consequences. This is the status of patients one finds in the treatment of pain centers across our nation. Most any physician can treat these patients if they choose. Patients in this category often have undiagnosed, assigned diagnoses or unproven diagnoses as the cause of the pain. These patients are commonly considered to be medical patients that often are considered junkies, already predisposed to psychological narcotic addiction if they arent already addicts and become labeled as narcotic addicts by physicians without documenting the narcotic addictionand go untreated and rejected. When treated with narcotics for chronic pain or psychological addiction, medical patients are controlled, watched carefully, and rarely prone to abusive, destructive, and psychological aberrations and behavior. Patients in continuous pain can recognize that pain relief is the objective of the narcotic medicationquite different from patients with psychological narcotic addiction, much of which is still not understood. We all know a few things about psychological addiction, and we as physicians leave the treatment to those who manage withdrawal or detox centers. Psychologists, psychiatrists, other physicians, and various other trained people manage the treatment. Signs of this type of addiction are usually evident, either with obvious skin signs of repeated needle marks, dilated pupils, or behavior antics such as the unbelievable number of tactics used to explain the need for more frequent refills of the drugs. Physicians are placed in a legally vulnerable position when being confronted by medical patients in increasing numbers. Rather than take a chance of being accused of inciting narcotic addiction, treating narcotic addicts unknowingly, being addicted to narcotics themselves, or over-prescribing narcotic medications which threaten the loss of their medical license and their medical careers, an increasing number of physicians refuse to treat any medical patient, even for pain that is expected after a trauma or a surgical proceduredepending on their own risk tolerance. Unfortunately, many medical pain patients are treated like narcotic addicts far more often than necessary and for reasons that have nothing to do with narcotic psychological addiction. The tragedy is increasing in our nation, and physicians are neglecting far more patients in pain. Pain is caused by physical pathology more often than psychological issues. Look at the increasing number of pain clinics across our nation that are packed with patients in pain who are not psychologically addicted. That would suggest the pain-treatment physicians are quite knowledgeable about narcotic-type addictions and treatment, and other physicians arent. This lack of knowledge by other physicians about narcotic addiction is also causing significant destruction of trust, reliance, and rapport between physicians and patients, spreading to physicians who treat patients with pain properly. Perhaps physicians who dont use narcotics for pain treatment should make an effort to learn more about narcotic addiction, which might lessen their fear of using narcotics for pain therapy. It would avoid in-office confrontations with medical patients denied effective pain treatment. Curtis G. Graham is a physician. Image credit: Shutterstock.com Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Catch up on old episodes! Its one of the hard things about anesthesiology. A window opens, you work like all get out, doing all sorts of things while the breeze blows in, then its shut again. Sometimes, you see your patient once more; sometimes, if things go awry, you might see them multiple times. Or your colleagues step in to help out if you are not there. Or the critical care or perioperative anesthesiologist work their magic for awhile. But basically, you welcome the orneriness in, and then, after the bustle and harumphing, you miss it. Audrey Shafer is an anesthesiologist. She shares her story and discusses her KevinMD article, The sick-sick patient and the anesthesiologist. This episode is sponsored by the Nuance Dragon Ambient eXperience. With so many demands on their time, physicians today report record levels of burnout. Burnout is caused by many factors, one of which is clinical documentation. Studies indicate physicians spend two hours documenting care for every hour spent with patients. At Nuance, we are committed to helping physicians do what you love care for patients and spend less time on clinical documentation. The Nuance Dragon Ambient eXperience, or DAX for short, is an AI-powered, ambient clinical intelligence solution that automatically captures patient encounters securely and accurately at the point of care. Physicians who use DAX have reported a 50 percent decrease in documentation time and a 70 percent reduction in feelings of burnout, and 83 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational. Rediscover the joy of medicine with clinical documentation that writes itself, all within the EHR. VISIT SPONSOR https://nuance.com/daxinaction SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RATE AND REVIEW https://www.kevinmd.com/rate FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/kevinphomd FOLLOW ON TIKTOK https://www.tiktok.com/@kevinphomd GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE https://earnc.me/59ffMF Powered by CMEfy a seamless way for busy clinician learners to discover Internet Point-of-Care Learning opportunities that reward AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s). Learn more at about.cmefy.com/cme-info WELLINGTON New Zealand Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited (TSXV: NZP and NZX: Chatham or the Company") is pleased to advise research progress into extraction of rare earth elements from phosphate minerals by Chathams Pacific Rare Earths Limited. The CSIRO work program was commissioned by Chathams wholly-owned Australian company, Avenir Makatea Pty Ltd. Following encouraging results from stage 1 of culturing microbes potentially suitable for biomining, further testing will be conducted by CSIRO and Pacific Rare Earths, the trading name for Avenir Makatea. Stage 1 testing conducted by CSIRO is part of an overall program to evaluate bioleaching to extract rare earth elements. The first step was the successful enrichment of natural microbes present in three geologic horizons within Korella, Korella North and Korella South sites in NW Queensland. Under controlled lab conditions, the native microbes were cultured and have demonstrated three orders of magnitude cell growth (i.e. from 106-107 to 109-1010 cells per mL) over a period of four days. Additional subculturing of the cultures was conducted to further enrich native microbes. Subject to continued success for the balance of the Stage 1 preparatory phase, CRP will commit to the series of longer duration bioleaching tests. Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited CEO Chris Castle said: These encouraging results continue to reinforce our confidence in continuing our work with CSIRO in Stage 2 of the Biomining Program. CRP Progresses REE Related Biomining Research at CSIRO Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: SCT - Scott Announces FY22 Results Manawa Energy Q2 Operating Report & Market Guidance Update IKE 1H FY23 Performance Update GSH - Annual Meeting and Director Nominations PGW Trading Guidance Update October 18th Morning Report Fonterra announces new Sustainable Finance Framework Air New Zealand Limited Retail Bond Offer EVO - Resignation of Director Tower updates full year guidance Aran Bakery and Bistro won Supreme Champion of the Blas na hEireann 2022 awards after winning gold for their spelt sourdough bread. Sweeping the sourdough category, Aran also won the bronze with their heritage sourdough and silver with their multi-seed sourdough. Aran won gold in the Pastries-Tart category with their citrus tart, and Best in County for Kilkenny. Hailed as being the Irish seal of approval Blas na hEireann celebrates the very best in Irish food and drink, shining a spotlight on the talented producers dotted around the island. Bart Pawlukojc said: "We have a huge amount of gratitude to the customers. We try, from the heart, to bring the best quality to them. To be recognised like this is wonderful. We are grateful to our team and our suppliers in Kilkenny and further afield who made this possible. It is an honour to be recognised along with all the candidates." Nicole Server-Pawlukojc said: That loaf of bread epitomises our entire approach at Aran start with the very best and then add a little love and skill. We couldnt be more delighted for the whole team its a real boost for everyone. Aran Bakery and Bistro, Barrack Street, Kilkenny, was founded in 2019 by Bart Pawlukojc and Nicole Server-Pawlukojc who met while working in the world famous Noma in Copenhagen, fell in love and married. Aran is Nicole and Bart's creative outlet that allows them to make top-quality food accessible to everyone. Focusing on local, seasonal food they work with producers from Kilkenny, and Carlow to bring a delicious menu that changes daily. For the past 3 years Aran has adapted to challenges with creativity and a focus on consumer needs. This led them to open a second location just last year which houses their bakery and deli, and offers take away sweet and savoury baked goods. Now in their 15th year, Blas na hEireann, The Irish Food Awards is the biggest competition for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland. Over 3,000 products from every county of Ireland were entered into the competition in a broad range of food and drink categories as well as key awards such as Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer. Issued in reliance on the Fund's waiver from NZX Main Board Listing Rule 3.13.1 dated 24 June 2019. A copy of this waiver can be found at https:// www.fonterra.com/nz/en/investors/fonterra-shareholders-fund.html. Please be advised that during the month of September 2022 the following allotments and redemptions of units were made in the Fonterra Shareholders' Fund. Each unit was allotted or redeemed in consideration of the transfer of one share in Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited to or by Fonterra Farmer Custodian Limited. (a) Class of Security and ISIN: FSF Units, ISIN: NZFSFE0001S5 (b)Number of Securities: Allotted: 0 Redeemed: 290 Net Redemption 290 (c)Percentage of total Class of Securities: Allotted: 0.0000000% Redeemed: 0.0002700% Net Redemption % 0.0002700% (d)Reason for redemption: Each unit was allotted or redeemed in consideration of the transfer of one share in Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited to or by Fonterra Farmer Custodian Limited. (e)Specific authority for allotment: Fonterra Shareholders' Fund Unit Trust Deed between FSF Management Company Limited, the New Zealand Guardian Trust Company Limited and Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, and the Custody Trust Deed for the Fonterra Economic Rights Trust between FSF Management Company Limited, the New Zealand Guardian Trust Company Limited, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited and Fonterra Farmer Custodian Limited. (f)Terms or details of the redemption: The units allotted rank pari-passu with the existing units on issue. (g)Number of Securities of the Class in existence at close on 30/09/2022 after the redemption (exclusive of Treasury Stock): 107,417,032 (h)Previous number of Securities of the Class in existence at close on31/08/2022 before the redemption (exclusive of Treasury Stock):107,417,322 Andrew Cordner On behalf of the Fonterra Shareholders' Fund. FSF Management Company Ltd (Australian Registered Business Number 190 539 935, incorporated in New Zealand) is the manager of the Fonterra Shareholders' Fund. Monthly Allotment/ Redemption Notice Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: SCT - Scott Announces FY22 Results Manawa Energy Q2 Operating Report & Market Guidance Update IKE 1H FY23 Performance Update GSH - Annual Meeting and Director Nominations PGW Trading Guidance Update October 18th Morning Report Fonterra announces new Sustainable Finance Framework Air New Zealand Limited Retail Bond Offer EVO - Resignation of Director Tower updates full year guidance The N25 is the most dangerous road in Ireland, claiming over twenty lives since 2017, new figures have revealed. 22 fatal collisions, which may have included multiple deaths, were recorded on the N25 between January 1, 2017, and September 14, 2022. The N25 runs through South Kilkenny and connects Cork in the South-West to Rosslare Europort in the South-East. Notably, the nearby N24, which also runs through South Kilkenny, has witnessed twelve fatal crashes during the same period, putting it just under the N25, N2 and N15 for fatalities. The sections of both roads that run through South Kilkenny have long been a cause for concern amongst local councillors in the area. There was consternation earlier this year when news broke that funding for proposed improvement works on both the N25 and N24 had been shelved. Cllr Fidelis Doherty, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council at the time, described the situation as scandalous. In a last-ditch effort from local representatives all across the Southern Region, funding was eventually secured to enable improvement works on the N24 to progress. In recent times, harrowing representations have been made to local councillors by members of the public who have made a plea to advance road projects in South Kilkenny. According to Cllr Pat Dunphy, "accidents and fatalities will continue to happen until something major is done." A recent motion tabled at a Piltown MD meeting called on Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to immediately undertake a feasibility assessment for the provision of urgently needed safety improvements and sustainable transport options along the N24'. If you step outside your house on this stretch of road (from New Aglish to Grannagh Castle), youre immediately in danger, Cllr Dunphy added. We are asking for support before something terrible happens. 767 people have died on Irish roads since the start of 2017, according to these figures obtained by the Irish Mirror. Commenting on the recent report on the amount of fatalities on the N25 and N24 since 2017, Cllr Pat Dunphy said that he is 'not surprised at the tragic loss of life on those two roads'. Cllr Dunphy said that he has been raising the safety aspect of the N24 and N25 for some time trying to meet with the TII for the past couple of years and constantly raising at council meetings and yet despite the fatalities progress is 'very very slow'. The South Kilkenny councillor listed some of the dangers on the routes in the area to the Kilkenny People as follows: 1) The dangerous N25 in the Glenmore area 2) a national route passing through an urban industrial area in Grannagh 3) a dangerous junction to a major quarry and cement plant in New Aglish 4) dangerous right hand turns in Rathkieran, Mooncoin and other sections of the N24 5) the volume of traffic and in particular freight lorries speeding through the village of Mooncoin 6) the dangerous Carrick Road leading into Mooncoin Village 7) the 2 + 1 Piltown - Fiddown By-Pass 8) the Tower Junction in Piltown The councillor acknowledged the scale and length of both roads (the N24 and N25) and how they pass through multiple counties so that it is not just a Kilkenny issue but also made the point that the county must make its voice heard for change to happen. "At present, progress is far too slow," Dunphy says. He is now calling on the Minister for Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to solve those serious issues without further delay in order to save lives. Cllr Dunphy said that the Minister and TII should listen to the people and public reps in South Kilkenny when they continuously keep raising the dangers on the N25 and N24. He said it is no surprise to learn that the N25 is the most dangerous road in the country and the N24 not far behind as the 4th most dangerous road in Ireland. "This is not a record we want in South Kilkenny," he said. Weather Alert ...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 AM TUESDAY MORNING... * WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures from the mid 20s to around 30 expected. * WHERE...Central and eastern Missouri, as well as west central and southwest Illinois. * WHEN...From 9 PM Monday to 9 AM CDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. && Foundations of Amateur Radio The Amateur's Code for future generations... Over the past while I've been discussing the Amateur's Code and its place in our community. I've shown that it was published in 1927, despite credits to the contrary and it's possible that it existed since 1923. I've discussed the original code, how it evolved and what changes have been made across the decades since. I'd like to take this opportunity to compare the original from 1927 to a revision that I've constructed using the various versions that have been published since. Originally I was going to use the current 2022 version in the ARRL handbook to discuss this, but it's completely different from the one shown on the ARRL website today, which appears to be more recent, that it made little sense to pick one over the other. Back to 1927, or 1923 if you like, written by Paul M. Segal 9EEA, or W9EEA, Director, Rocky Mountain Division and General Counsel of ARRL. The Amateur's Code I - The Amateur is Gentlemanly. He never knowingly uses the air for his own amusement in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others. He abides by the pledges given by the A.R.R.L. in his behalf to the public and the Government. II - The Amateur is Loyal. He owes his amateur radio to the American Radio Relay League, and he offers it his unswerving loyalty. III - The Amateur is Progressive. He keeps his station abreast of science. It is built well and efficiently. His operating practice is clean and regular. IV - The Amateur is Friendly. Slow and patient sending when requested, friendly advice and counsel to the beginner, kindly assistance and cooperation for the broadcast listener: these are marks of the amateur spirit. V - The Amateur is Balanced. Radio is his hobby. He never allows it to interfere with any of the duties he owes to his home, his job, his school or his community. VI - The Amateur is Patriotic. His knowledge and his station are always ready for the service of his country and his community. It has a certain "quality" about it. Leaving aside that it's written with a male radio amateur in mind, it represents what the character Dennis Denuto in the 1997 Australian movie "The Castle" refers to as "It's just the vibe of the thing". I present to you an updated version of the code in an attempt at preserving that vibe whilst taking into account that we're not in 1923 any longer: The Radio Amateur is CONSIDERATE and RESPECTFUL...never knowingly behaving in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others. The Radio Amateur is LOYAL...offering encouragement and participation to the global amateur community. The Radio Amateur is PROGRESSIVE...keeping abreast of science, striving to build and operate their station above reproach. The Radio Amateur is FRIENDLY...patient; offering friendly advice and counsel to the beginner; kindly assistance, cooperation and consideration for the interests of others. These are the hallmarks of the amateur spirit. The Radio Amateur is BALANCED...radio is a hobby, never allowing it to interfere with any of the duties owed to home, work, school or community. The Radio Amateur is SUPPORTIVE...knowledge, station and skills always ready for service to country and community. Hopefully you've followed along with the evolution of this discussion and find the reasoning for it as compelling as I do. Of course this is just one perspective on what a revised Amateur's Code might look like and I am offering it as a topic of discussion to the entire global amateur radio community. I hope that it provides food for thought, talking points and encouragement to ask questions. I will reiterate my thanks to the WorldRadioHistory.com website where you can find many of the earliest editions of the ARRL handbook. If you have any of the missing editions, or better copies than those available, I'd encourage you to share them to continue to preserve the history of our community. I'm Onno VK6FLAB This article is the transcript of the weekly 'Foundations of Amateur Radio' podcast, produced by Onno Benschop, VK6FLAB who was licensed as radio amateur in Perth, Western Australia in 2010. For other episodes, visit http://vk6flab.com/. Feel free to get in touch directly via email: cq@vk6flab.com If you'd like to join a weekly radio net for new and returning amateurs, check out the details at http://ftroop.vk6flab.com/, the net runs every week on Saturday, from 00:00 to 01:00 UTC on Echolink, IRLP, AllStar Link, Brandmeister and 2m FM via various repeaters, all are welcome. Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho holds a telephone conversation with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen at the Government Complex Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance By Lee Min-hyung Korea has reported a trade deficit once again for September, extending its losing streak for the sixth consecutive month, according to data from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The rate of export increase came in as a single-digit figure last month, but the rate of import increase hit double digits, bringing the nation's monthly trade balance to a deficit of $3.77 billion. This was the first time that the country posted a trade deficit lasting for more than six consecutive months since May 1997. This situation is being partly caused by the soaring burden of energy imports. Korea's imports of crude oil, gas and coal reached $17.96 billion in September, up 81.2 percent from the previous year. "Korea will not be able to attain a high level of the export increase rate for the time being, in that the figure has reported single-digit growth since June," Trade Minister Lee Chang-yang said. The global economic slowdown, soaring energy import costs and semiconductor price fall will also affect Korea's overall export growth negatively, according to him. "But one positive sign is that exports have reported growth for 23 months straight, and the monthly figure last month was a historical high," he said. The government is pondering measures to curb energy imports by reducing demand and increase usage efficiency. Containers for exports and imports are stacked at a pier in Korea's largest port city of Busan on Sept. 13. Newsis People wave North Korean flags before boarding ships bound for North Korea at Niigata port in Japan, in this file photo taken in December 1959. More than 93,000 people, mostly ethnic Koreans living in Japan, headed to the North under its resettlement program between 1959 and 1984. Courtesy of Kim Deog-young Japanese court acknowledges propaganda by Kim regime as criminal offense By Jung Min-ho Eiko Kawasaki was just 17 when she made the most critical decision of her life. She joined North Korea's resettlement program that promised a "paradise on Earth" in the country where she felt she truly belonged. As an ethnic Korean living in Japan, Kawasaki believed the message promoted by "Chongryon," a pro-Pyongyang organization based in Tokyo, and boarded a ship bound for the self-proclaimed "socialist utopia" where she was told there was no discrimination against people like her and everything from education to food would be free. The day she arrived at Chongjin, a North Korean port city, she realized everything she was told was a lie. But it was too late. Her decision was irreversible. The regime did not let the settlers leave what she found out quickly was the exact opposite of paradise. There, Kawasaki survived 43 years, before escaping back to Japan in 2003. "In just two months, I started to contemplate suicide," Kawasaki, now 80, said during a press conference at the National Assembly in Seoul, Thursday. "Some people who went there with me already killed themselves, only to be treated as if they were not humans. Trucks came to move the bodies and no one knew where they were heading." She was among 93,000 people, mostly ethnic Koreans, who left Japan between 1959 and 1984 under the resettlement program. As a result of the Treaty of San Francisco in 1951, they lost their Japanese citizenship. People on ships bound for North Korea wave at a crowd at Niigata port in Japan, in this Dec. 14, 1959, file photo. Courtesy of Kojima Hidenori When they arrived in North Korea, their illusion, formed by propaganda material that was filled with deceptively alluring images and blatant lies, was shattered by the stark reality of life there. North Koreans were starving and did not have basic freedoms, which the new arrivals had taken for granted in Japan. Moreover, they were labeled as "jjokbari" (a racial slur referring to Japanese people), who constitute the lowest class in what she described as a living hell. "Those who came from Japan were not allowed to work at the government or its agencies People looked at us with a cynical eye. Some were falsely accused of being spies and treated as such, meaning that they were beaten, sent to political camps or even killed without clearly knowing why," Kawasaki said. "After the death of founder Kim Il-sung in 1994, I thought all this pain would be finally over soon, only to be disappointed with the continuation of the oppressive rule and the terrible famine afterward. I thought death would be better than life there. So I decided to escape." She is one of only a lucky few who managed to make it to Japan or South Korea. Yet most of them, if not all, still suffer from traumatic memories of the North and miss their families they they had to leave behind. In recent years, Kawasaki and several other victims have been demanding justice at courts in Japan and the International Court of Justice for the lies that led them to make the wrong decision, trying to hold accountable the institutions allegedly involved in creating those lies and implementing the scheme. In March, the Tokyo District Court rejected their case seeking compensation from the North Korean government and their relatives' right to return to Japan. But Kawasaki said the ruling was meaningful because it acknowledged, for the first time, that the false promise, of living in a "paradise on Earth," was a criminal offense. This was, she added, only the beginning of their fight for justice and they will continue to build their cases on it. Eiko Kawasaki, second from left, speaks about her experience in North Korea during a press conference at the National Assembly in Seoul, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Jung Min-ho 'Seoul, Tokyo should be united against human rights violations' When the Korean Peninsula was divided after World War II and the Korean War (1950-53), hundreds of thousands of Korean residents in Japan many of whom were forcibly brought there as laborers during Japan's colonial rule over Korea (1910-45) found themselves confused about their national identity. They were no longer Japanese nationals (although they received permanent residency statuses) and their birth country was divided into two. After its defeat at the end of World War II, Japan found itself with about 600,000 foreigners inside its borders. Ethnic Koreans suffered from discrimination and a lack of financial opportunities. So when the North Korean government said it would welcome them, hoping to fill a shortage of workers, the Japanese government embraced the idea quickly, according to Kim Deog-young, a filmmaker working on the forthcoming documentary, "A Strange Paradise," and one of the speakers at the press conference. "The ethnic Koreans were seen as troublemakers in Japan and could not get decent jobs at state organizations. Some reports say the unemployment rate among them was eight times higher than that of Japanese citizens at the time For the Japanese government, they were a big political problem," Kim told The Korea Times. Many were searching for an escape and North Korea provided it with the support from the Japanese government and the Red Cross, which painted the program as a humanitarian one. This is why Japanese politicians pay little attention to the issue even though more than 8,000 Japanese citizens were among the victims, he added. The victims of North Korea's deceitful resettlement program hold a rally near the Tokyo District Court in central Tokyo, in this March 23 file photo. Courtesy of Lee So-ra From left, Jeju Peace Forum Director Han In-taek, swisspeace head of communication Isabel Prinzing and Director of swisspeace and the Basel Peace Forum Laurent Goetschel take part in "The International Basel Peace Forum: New Avenues to Promote Peace" at the Swiss Hanok in central Seoul, Friday. Korea Times photo by Kwon Mee-yoo By Kwon Mee-yoo Swisspeace, a peace research institute based in Basel and organizer of the Basel Peace Forum, held a spin-off event in Seoul, discussing the topic of sustainable peace. Organized with the Embassy of Switzerland in Korea, "The International Basel Peace Forum: New Avenues to Promote Peace" brought together experts from academia, business, NGOs and art to the Swiss Hanok in central Seoul, Friday. Ambassador of Switzerland to Korea Dagmar Schmidt Tartagli introduced the event as "a special preview of the International Basel Peace Forum." "Building sustainable peace is one of the priorities Switzerland has set for its mandate. 'A plus for peace,' 'a plus for humanity,' 'a plus for sustainable development,' 'a plus for multilateralism' and 'a plus for innovation' are the mottos Switzerland wants to follow during these two years," the ambassador said, noting that Switzerland has been elected as a non-permanent member of the U.N. Security Council for 2023-24. Laurent Goetschel, director of swisspeace and the Basel Peace Forum, said the forum has the objective to stimulate exchanges, dialogues and the emergence of new ideas. "Even though not all ideas emerging at the Basel Peace Forum will have a direct impact in a concrete context, there is the potential," he said. In the panel discussion, Goetschel was joined by Jeju Peace Forum Director Han In-taek and Kim Dae-jung Peace Center Director Paik Hak-soon to discuss the challenges and opportunities of building peace around the world. The second session offered insight into how art can be used to foster sustainable peace in the 21st century. DMZ Project Artistic Director Kim Sun-jung and SongEun Art & Cultural Foundation Artistic Director Laurencina Farrant discussed the role of art in peacekeeping. Goetschel and Han took part in a debate exchanging thoughts on whether such innovative perspectives can make an impact in peacebuilding in today's rapidly changing geopolitical environment. Han was in favor of innovation, while Goetschel endorsed pessimism in the discussion. The Swiss city of Basel also signed an MOU on city cooperation centering on innovation with Seoul, Thursday. "Seoul is the economic and cultural center of South Korea and the majority of Korean universities are also located in the millions-strong metropolis. This offers interesting points of contact for the economic, research and innovation location of Basel," Beat Jans, president of the Grand Council of Basel-Stadt, said in a statement. Tokyo should stop hiding the shameful history of the Sado mines. Japan is pushing ahead again with a plan to obtain UNESCO World Heritage recognition for a complex of former mines linked to wartime forced labor. On Thursday, the Japanese government submitted a revised version of a recommendation letter for the Sado mines to UNESCO headquarters in Paris. Japan submitted a letter of recommendation to nominate the mines to UNESCO in February, but the U.N. agency cited "insufficiency" in the content of the application. The additional information requested by UNESCO involved sections of a former waterway used to collect gold dust. Japan reportedly plans to submit a final version no later than Feb. 1 next year after consultations with UNESCO. South Korea has opposed the registration as inappropriate, citing Japan's wartime exploitation of Korean laborers. Seoul said Koreans brought to Japan during its 1910-45 colonization of the Korean Peninsula were forced into hard labor at the time. Japan's fresh push for the Sado mines, once the world's largest gold producer, is quite regrettable. If Japan wants to share the mines as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's common sense that the island country should reflect on the complete history of the mines, located on an island in northern Japan. But in its latest recommendation letter, the Japanese government also excluded its 20th-century wartime atrocity against Koreans, as it did in February. Instead, Tokyo limited the range of application for the mine only to the Edo era from the 16th century till the mid-19th century. Given that thousands of Koreans were victims of forced labor there during World War II, Japan's attempt to hide its shameful history is certainly an affront to the international community. At a time when the neighboring countries are making efforts to boost relations after a long hiatus, Japan's fresh move for UNESCO recognition is certain to pour cold water on these efforts. The Japanese government should end its attempt to list the Sado mines, keeping in mind that it could send the fragile relationship between Seoul and Tokyo into a tailspin. . A portrait of Mahsa Amini is held during a rally calling for regime change in Iran following the death of Amini, a young woman who died after being arrested in Tehran by Iran's notorious "morality police," in Washington, Oct. 1. AP-Yonhap At least 92 people have been killed as Iran has cracked down on women-led protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini after her arrest by the notorious morality police, the group Iran Human Rights said Sunday. As protests stretch into a third week, President Ebrahim Raisi on Sunday said that the "enemies" of Iran had "failed in their conspiracy". Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish Iranian, was pronounced dead on September 16 after she was detained for allegedly breaching rules requiring women to wear hijab headscarves and modest clothes, sparking Iran's biggest wave of popular unrest in almost three years. An additional 41 people died in clashes Friday in Iran's far southeast, an area bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan, Oslo-based IHR also said, citing local sources. Those protests were sparked by accusations a police chief in the region had raped a teenage girl of the Baluch Sunni minority, it said. An Iranian protester tears up his passport during a protest following the death of Iranian Mahsa Amini, in Istanbul, Turkey, Oct. 2. EPA-Yonhap Solidarity rallies with Iranian women who have defiantly burnt the hijabs they have been obliged to wear since the 1979 Islamic revolution have been held worldwide, with demonstrations in more than 150 cities on Saturday. In Iran itself, clashes between protesters and security forces have rocked cities nationwide for 16 nights in a row after they first flared in western regions home to Amini and Iran's Kurdish minority. "Rioters" and "thugs", some hurling Molotov cocktails, attacked the Tehran headquarters of Iran's leading ultraconservative daily Kayhan on Saturday, said the newspaper, whose director is appointed by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. IHR director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam urged the international community to take urgent steps against the Islamic republic to stop the killing of Iranian protesters, saying they amount to "crimes against humanity". People run during clashes with riot police as students protest following the death of death of Mahsa Amini, in Tehran, Iran, Oct. 2. Reuters-Yonhap At least 92 protesters in the Mahsa Amini rallies have been killed so far, said IHR, which has been working to assess the death toll despite internet outages and blocks on WhatsApp, Instagram and other online services. London-based Amnesty International said earlier it had confirmed 53 deaths, after Iran's semi-official Fars news agency said last week that "around 60" people had died. On Sunday, the official IRNA news agency said a paramilitary man "stabbed" during "recent riots" in the Shiite holy city of Qom south of Tehran died in hospital. Tehran has also battled unrest in the country's southeast, and it said five Revolutionary Guards members were killed in clashes Friday in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan-Baluchestan province. The poverty-stricken region has often seen clashes with Baluchi minority rebels, Sunni Muslim extremist groups and drug smuggling gangs. IHR accused the security forces of the mainly Shiite country of "bloodily repressing" the Zahedan protest that erupted after Friday prayers over accusations a police chief in the province's port city of Chabahar had raped a 15-year-old girl. A Sunni preacher, Molavi Abdol Hamid, had on Wednesday warned the community was "inflamed" over the alleged rape. Women carry banners during a protest outside Lebanon's National Museum in Beirut in solidarity with women-led protests in Iran sparked by the death of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini, Oct. 2. AFP-Yonhap Angola, IN (46703) Today Rain. Snow may mix in. High 41F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers overnight. Snow may mix in. Low 37F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. The international community has begun to pay attention as Turkiye celebrates its centenary next year, which also happens to be an election year for Erdogan. by M. K. Bhadrakumar A mild flutter ensued after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars recent meeting with his Turkiye counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York on September 21 when it came to be known that Cyprus figured in their discussion. Jaishankar highlighted it in a tweet. The Indian media instinctively related this to Turkish President Recep Erdogan making a one-line reference to the Kashmir issue earlier that day in his address to the UN GA. But Jaishankar being a scholar-diplomat, would know that Cyprus issue is in the news cycle and the new cold war conditions breathe fresh life into it, as tensions mount in the Turkish-Greek rivalry, which often draws comparison with the India-Pakistan animosity, stemming from another historical Partition under the Treaty of Lausanne (1923) that ended the Ottoman Empire. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of the Republic of Turkey, Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on May 01, 2017. [ Photo: Office of Prime Minister of India] The beauty about peace treaties is that they have no expiration date but the Treaty of Lausanne was signed for a period of a hundred years between Turkiye on one side and Britain, France, Italy, Greece, and their allies on the other. The approaching date heightens the existential predicament at the heart of Turkiyes foreign policy. The stunning reality is that by 24th July 2023, Turkeys modern borders become obsolete. The secret articles of the 1923 Treaty, signed by Turkish and British diplomats, provide for a chain of strange happenings British troops will reoccupy the forts overlooking the Bosphorus; the Greek Orthodox Patriarch will resurrect a Byzantine mini state within Istanbuls city walls; and Turkey will finally be able to tap the forbidden vast energy resources of the East Mediterranean (and, perhaps, regain Western Thrace, a province of Greece.) Of course, none of that can happen and they remain conspiracy theories. Nonetheless, the end-of-Lausanne syndrome remains a foundational myth and weaves neatly into the historical revisionism that Ataturk should have got a much better deal from the Western powers. All this goes to underline the magnitude of the current massively underestimated drama, of which Cyprus is at the epicentre. Suffice to say, Turkeys geometrically growing rift with Greece and Cyprus over the offshore hydrocarbon reserves and naval borders must be properly understood in terms of the big picture. Turkiyes ruling elite believe that Turkey was forced to sign the Treaty of Sevres in 1920 and the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923 and thereby concede vast tracts of land under its domain. Erdogan rejects any understanding of history that takes 1919 as the start of the 1,000-year history of his great nation and civilisation. Whoever leaves out our last 200 years, even 600 years together with its victories and defeats, and jumps directly from old Turkish history to the Republic, is an enemy of our nation and state, he once stated. The international community has begun to pay attention as Turkiye celebrates its centenary next year, which also happens to be an election year for Erdogan. In a typical first shot, the US State Department announced on September 16 just five days before Jaishankar met Cavusoglu that Washington is lifting defence trade restrictions on the Greek Cypriot administration for the 2023 fiscal year. Spokesman Ned Price said, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken determined and certified to Congress that the Republic of Cyprus has met the necessary conditions under relevant legislation to allow the approval of exports, re-exports, and transfers of defence articles. The US move comes against the backdrop of a spate of recent arms deals by Cyprus and Greece, including a deal to purchase attack helicopters from France and efforts to procure missile and long-range radar systems. Turkiye called on the US to reconsider this decision and to pursue a balanced policy towards the two sides on the Island. It has since announced a beefing up of its military presence in Northern Cyprus. To be sure, the unilateral US move also means indirect support for the maritime claims by Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration, which Turkiye, with the longest continental coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean, rejects as excessive and violates its sovereign rights and that of Turkish Cypriots. Whether these developments figured in Jaishankars discussion with Cavusoglu is unclear, but curiously, India too is currently grappling with a similar US decision to offer a $450 million military package to Pakistan to upgrade its nuclear-capable F-16 aircraft. Indeed, the US-Turkey-Cyprus triangle has some striking similarities with the US-India-Pakistan triangle. In both cases, the Biden administration is dealing with friendly pro-US governments in Nicosia and Islamabad but is discernibly unhappy with the nationalist credo of the leaderships in Ankara and New Delhi. Washington is annoyed that the governments in Ankara and New Delhi preserve their strategic autonomy. Most important, the US attempt to isolate Russia weakening due to the refusal by Turkiye and India to impose sanctions against Moscow. The US is worried that India and Turkiye, two influential regional powers, pursue foreign policies promoting multipolarity in the international system, which undermines US global hegemony. Above all, it is an eyesore for Washington that Erdogan and Prime Minister Modi enjoy warm trustful personal interaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The photo beamed from Samarkand during the recent SCO summit showing Erdogan arm in arm with Putin must have infuriated President Biden. Modi too displayed a rare moment of surging emotions when he told Putin at Samarkand on September 16, The relationship between India and Russia has deepened manifold. We also value this relationship because we have been such friends who have been with each other every moment for the last several decades and the whole world also knows how Russias relationship with India has been and how Indias relationship with Russia has been and therefore the world also knows that it is an unbreakable friendship. Personally speaking, in a way, the journey for both of us started at the same time. I first met you in 2001, when you were working as the head of the government and I had started working as head of the state government. Today, it has been 22 years, our friendship is constantly growing, we are constantly working together for the betterment of this region, for the well-being of the people. Today, at the SCO Summit, I am very grateful to you for all the feelings that you have expressed for India. Amazingly, the western media censored this stirring passage in its reports on the Modi-Putin meeting! Notably, following the meeting between Modi and Erdogan in Samarkand on Sept. 16, a commentary by the state-owned TRT titled Turkiye-India ties have a bright future ahead signalled Erdogan governments interest to move forward in relations with India. Indias ties with Turkiye deserve to be prioritised, as that country is inching toward BRICS and the SCO and is destined to be a serious player in the emerging multipolar world order. Symptomatic of the shift in tectonic plates is the recent report that Russia might launch direct flights between Moscow and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a state supported and recognised only by Ankara. (Incidentally, one pre-condition set by the Biden administration to resume military aid to Cyprus was that Nicosia should roll back its relations with Moscow!) Without doubt, the US and the EU are recalibrating the power dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean by building up the Cyprus-Greece axis and sending a warning to Turkiye to know its place. In geopolitical terms, this is another way of welcoming Cyprus into NATO. Thus, it becomes part of the new cold war. Can South Asias future be any different? Turkiye has so many advantages over India, having been a longstanding cold-war era ally of the US. It hosts Incirlik Air Base, one of the US major strategically located military bases. Kurecik Radar Station partners with the US Air Force and Navy in a mission related to missile interception and defence. Turkey is a NATO power which is irreplaceable in the alliances southern tier. Turkey controls the Bosphorus Straits under the Montreux Convention (1936). Yet, the US is unwilling to have a relationship of mutual interest and mutual respect with Turkiye. Pentagon is openly aligned with the Kurdish separatists. The Obama administration made a failed coup attempt to overthrow Erdogan. Click here to read the original article M. K. Bhadrakumar was a career diplomat by profession. Roughly half of the 3 decades of his diplomatic career was devoted to assignments on the territories of the former Soviet Union and to Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan. Other overseas postings included South Korea, Sri Lanka, Germany, and Turkey. He writes mainly on Indian foreign policy and the affairs of the Middle East, Eurasia, Central Asia, South Asia and the Asia-Pacific. Auburn, IN (46706) Today Rain and snow this morning. The rain and snow will change to all rain by the afternoon hours. High 41F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers overnight. Snow may mix in. Low 37F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch. President Wickremesinghe has sworn in a jumbo cabinet to satisfy the members from assorted parties, who support him. Apparently, he considers it only as a political exercise and not an effort to revamp the system in keeping with public sensitivities over the style of governance. by Col R Hariharan During the month, Sri Lanka government made some progress in the measures it had initiated earlier for economic recovery. After holding the staff level meetings with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the government is hopeful signs of $2.9 bn loan materialising. However, some other measures it has taken like the formation of a bloated cabinet for political reasons, declaring focus areas of Aragalaya protests as high security zones (HSZ) and the use of draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) to arrest some of the protest leaders have drawn flak both at home and abroad. These negative aspects have provided a rallying point for opposition political parties to come together and articulate their stand against the Wickremesinghe government. Political Unrest in Sri Lanka [ Photo Thilina Kaluthotage ] Actions of the government to suppress public protests found a place in the report on Sri Lanka by the outgoing High Commissioner of Human Rights Michelle Bachelet made at the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) at Geneva. The session slated to end on October 7, is likely to extend the time given Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments to the international body on the accountability for its human rights aberrations during the Eelam war. At the same time, it is likely to add negative riders in the resolution on the way the government has been handling public protests. Former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa who fled the country for his safety on July 13, returned home to a warm official welcome on September 2. Though he had been keeping a low profile, his return has reinforced the belief that the Rajapaksas will continue to call the shots in the Wickremesinghe government. Politics of protests The Aragalaya public protests that had dethroned the Rajapaksas from power have shaken up the political parties of all shades as much as the government. Recovering from the shock effect of four-month long socio-political protests, political leaders seem to have realised the Aragalaya phenomenon as the expression of the unheard, unheralded and deprived citizens who are fed up with the existing political order. Prof GL Peiris, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), in an interview in the Daily Mirror aptly described the Aragalaya as the alternative of ideas, of policies of freshness. A new departure. The Aragalaya had a visionary aspect to it. Later it degenerated into violence. That is not to be condoned in any manner. He found a kind of renaissance about it. The SLPP leader, who has chosen to sit separately in parliament from most of the SLPP members supporting the government, saw in the creations of protestors as an expression of creativity and deep desire for a system change. To reorganise the system. Prof Peiris, while acknowledging that some of the measures taken by the government to revamp the economy and ease the fuel and food shortages have yielded results, said a bloated cabinet cannot bring a systemic change. There were fewer public protests during the month. However, the ultraleft elements of the JVP and its student body seem to be using the Aragalaya to rekindle the embers of the protest movement to expand their political influence. In June 2022, before Wickremesinghe was elected president, the Sri Lanka government had told the members at the UNHRC in Geneva that it was imposing a moratorium on the use of the PTA. Even a month later when protestors were forcibly evicted from sensitive areas, the newly elected president assured foreign diplomats in Colombo that the government will uphold both Article 21 of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 14 (1) (b) of the Sri Lanka Constitution which govern the right to peaceful assembly. However, these promises seem to have been forgotten by President Wickremesinghe after his election. The President who had once called the Aragalaya protestors as fascists, seems to be trying to weed out their influence, using teleological methods. This was evident from the mass arrest of protestors under the PTA. The detention of several activists of Aragalaya under the PTA including the convenor of the Inter University Students Federation (IUSF) Wasantha Mudalige was condemned by many political parties across the ethnic spectrum. This may be considered a positive outcome of the protests. This was seen in the participation of many leaders of the opposition parties, civil society and trade union activists and retired public servants, in the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK)s mobile signature campaign against the PTA. When the protest launched in Jaffna reached Galle Facethe presence of former defence secretary Austin Fernando and trade union activist Joseph Stalin, apart from leaders from political parties like the ITAK, SJB and SLMC like Sumanthiran, Rasamanickam, Hirunika Premachandra and Rauf Hakeem, underscored its relevance in the present political environment. Similarly, the government notification of several areas around key government buildings and their adjoining roads in Colombo as High Security Zone to prevent holding of public meetings and protest marches has also been condemned by large sections of society. SJB leader Sajith Premadasa called the setting up of HSZ as acts of a dictatorship. He said the cabinet had recently given the nod for setting up a committee to regulate and control media. Premadasa said it was a dictatorial move and warned the party will take to the streets against all these moves in the future. President Wickremesinghe has sworn in a jumbo cabinet to satisfy the members from assorted parties, who support him. Apparently, he considers it only as a political exercise and not an effort to revamp the system in keeping with public sensitivities over the style of governance. Perhaps, conscious of this shortcoming, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena successfully moved a unanimous resolution in parliament to constitute a National Council (NC) after three rounds of talks with all parties. The NC will be chaired by the Speaker with the PM, leader of the opposition, Chief government whip and not more than 35 MPs representing all parties as members. According to a statement the NC will determine the priorities for the formulation of national policies, agree on short and medium term common minimum programs to stabilize the economy. It will also organize special meetings with cabinet ministers, the NC, the chairpersons of special committees and observers from youth organizations. However, for the present the public is likely to view the formation of the NC as a political expediency. JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake speaking in the parliament said the JVP will not support the NC project. He called the NC as a facade. It is another attempt to dupe the people and the rest of the world. He said the NC would not help solve problems. Few would dispute the JVP leaders description of the prevailing political culture as tainted by corruption, no respect for the rule of law and politicians enjoying perks and benefits and placing themselves above the law. Unless the NC can address these issues, it is likely to end up as yet another glorified commission, whose findings are confined to the archives. Sri Lankas problems are not merely economic or political but much more organic, reflecting the disconnect between the polluted political system of governance and the ordinary people. Aragalaya is a manifestation of this disconnect. Unless the President and the political parties can rework their equation with the people, politics of protests is likely to continue as the norm. Dr Subramanian Swamy with former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa [Photo: Special Arrangement] Tailpiece: Visiting BJP leader Dr Subramanian Swamy called upon Gotabaya Rajapaksa, after the former president returned home. In fact, Swamy was the first foreign visitor to call upon him. Swamy, a close friend of the Rajapaksas, was in Colombo to attend a conference on national security at the Kotelewala Defence University. He also met with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa and attended the Navratri pooja at his residence. The Indian leader is well known for making shocking one-liners. In his twitter on July 11, he said the Sri Lanka crisis was engineered and India should ensure that later this mob does not become refugees of India. What was he up to in Colombo? That is a question for twitterati and WhatsApp university to debate. [Written on September 30, 2022.] Raceland, LA (70394) Today A mix of clouds and sun. High around 65F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low near 40F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 3 (ANI/NewsVoir): Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a 'Maharatna' and a Fortune Global 500 Company was recognized as the Most Preferred Brands of 2022 by Team Marksmen, at the second edition of Most Preferred Brands, at an event held in Mumbai. This unique industry-led initiative has been informed and driven by insights drawn from industry-wide, in-depth research conducted by their research partner. Brands have been appraised on the following parameters: Also Read | IND vs SA Dream11 Team Prediction: Tips To Pick Best Fantasy Playing XI for India vs South Africa 3rd T20I Cricket Match in Indore. - Advocacy- Brand Appeal- Consumer Demand - Online and Offline- Consumer Perception and Experience- Innovation- Reliability Quotient Speaking on this occasion, S. Abbas Akhtar, Chief General Manager (PR & Brand) said, ''BPCL has always exceeded the expectations of customers in delivering our brand promise - innovative, reliable and caring! This award is also the reflection of our employees living our brand purpose, 'Energising Lives' in every activity that we do". Also Read | Godfather Movie: Review, Cast, Plot, Trailer, Release Date - All You Need to Know About Chiranjeevi, Salman Khan, Nayanthara's Telugu Film. Abbas Akhtar, Chief General Manager (PR & Brand) along with Charu Yadav, Deepak Jain, Khalid Ahmed and Saurabh Jain, received the award on behalf of the corporation. The Most Trusted Brands of India 2022 represents a galaxy of brand names that have been shining beacons of hope for those that look up to and repose their faith in them. It is an exclusive gathering of the brands we know and love, which celebrates their achievements, in addition to shining a light on what they mean for consumers at large, while highlighting insights and takeaways from their journey. 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 & financial autonomy. Bharat Petroleum's Refineries at Mumbai and Kochi and Bina at 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 the 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 has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content in this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Palghar (Maharashtra) [India]: A 7-year-old boy was killed after the battery of an electric scooter exploded while it was being charged in Palghar on Sunday. The incident occurred in Vasai area of Palghar district. Following the incident, the boy who was seriously injured was shifted to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. According to police, the deceased child was identified as Shabbir Shahnawaz. A case has been registered at Manikpur police station. E-Scooter Blast in Maharashtra: 7-Year-Old Dies As Electric Scooters Charging Battery Bursts in Vasai. The investigation is underway. Earlier on Wednesday, three people died and eight others were seriously injured in a fire due to a boiler explosion at a factory in the Vasai area of Palghar district, informed the Fire Department. The boiler exploded at Vasai Cos Power Engineering Limited Company. Over 50 employees were working in the factory when the explosion occurred. The incident took place at around 2:30 pm on Wednesday and the sound of the explosion was heard from 1 to 2 km. Fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot to put the fire under control. The injured were sent to the nearest hospital for treatment. Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 3 (ANI): Amid the row over Congress' 'PayCM' campaign against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Karnataka, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said Congress is a party on bail and called its Bharat Jodo Yatra a "sinister campaign". Speaking to reporters, Bommai said, "On Gandhi Jayanti day, I need not talk about the fake Gandhis. The whole party is on bail. Rahul Gandhi, his mother and Congress president Sonia Gandhi and KPCC President all are on bail. It is a party on bail and all the cases are pertaining to corruption. Bharat Jodo Yatra is a sinister campaign." Also Read | Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Likely To Embark on Visit to China Next Month. Bommai's remarks came in the backdrop of Rahul Gandhi's statement terming the incumbent BJP government in Karnataka a "corrupt one". The Karnataka Chief Minister further said, "The KPCC president is struggling hard in padayatra as the cases have been going on for the last 2-3 years. Hitherto, Karnataka was their ATM but not now, and for this reason, they may be unhappy. Everybody knows that there is no 40 per cent (commission) here. I will order an inquiry if they give me documents where such things have happened." Also Read | Pakistan Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb Accuses Imran Khan of Being 'Misogynist', Says 'He Has No Respect for Women'. This came amid the row over the "PayCM" t-shirt. Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar dared the state government to act against him and former CM Siddaramaiah for wearing the "PayCM" t-shirt, alleging that several party workers were booked for wearing the same t-shirt during the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'. "The Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly Siddaramaiah and I and other leaders will participate in Bharat Jodo Yatra by wearing 'PayCM' t-shirts. Let us see what the BJP will do," Shivakumar told reports in Nanjangud. He said cases had been filed against some Congress workers for wearing t-shirts with "Pay-CM" written on them during the march in Gundlupet. "We are not afraid of this (cases)," he said. On Saturday, a Congress worker was made to take off his t-shirt that featured the "PayCM" poster during the Bharat Jodo Yatra and an FIR has also been registered against him at the Chamarajanagar police station. "PayCM" is an aggressive campaign launched by Congress against the Basavaraj Bommai government, accusing it of massive corruption. The PayCM campaign appears to have started on September 21, when posters featuring Bommai surfaced in Bengaluru. These posters had a QR code with the message "40 per cent accepted here". Once scanned, the QR code would take people to a parody "40 per cent Commission Government" website launched recently by Congress. If any, people would then be asked to file their complaints against the Chief Minister. Meanwhile, The State government has dismissed the Congress charges as politically motivated. "The government is sunk in 40 per cent commission. All sections including farmers are suffering. On the one hand, there is corruption and unrest, on the other hand, there is the problem of farmers and unemployment. An atmosphere of fear has been created among the people," Shivakumar alleged. The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee chief accused the BJP of slander and baseless criticism because "our development is unbearable" to it. "BJP is doing petty politics to divert people's attention. They are criticizing us even though it has dead rats on its plate". (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], October 3 (ANI): Delhi Police have arrested one person from Rajasthan in connection with a sexual extortion case, officials said on Monday. They said the accused is the kingpin of the gang, which used to extort money from their victims by blackmailing them. The gang would threaten them that it has a video of the victim in a compromising position and would make the video viral if its demands are not met. Also Read | Karnataka Shocker: 16-Year-Old Boy Forced To Perform Worship Without Clothes; Police File FIR After Video Goes Viral. The accused has been identified as Govind Ram (23), from the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. "Working against the cyber frauds, under the 'Operation: Clean Sweep', the staff of cyber police station of the outer district have busted a case of cyber fraud and arrested one accused person who was involved in sexual extortion fraud," a police official said. Police said the accused was arrested after a case was registered under section 384 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at the Cyber Police Station of Outer District in April this year. Later, sections 120B/420/34 of IPC have also been added to the case. Also Read | LG Unveils World's Largest OLED TV at US Trade Show. The victim had alleged that someone, impersonating a girl, had sent him a WhatsApp message and talked with him. They also had a video call but the victim could not understand he was being defrauded. After a few days, the caller sent him a morphed video that showed the victim with a female, police said. The victim said the accused demanded money for not sharing the video on social media. He then transferred Rs 12,500 to the blackmailer from his account. "During the investigation, details of the suspected bank accounts and phone numbers were analysed. It was found the alleged mobile number was mostly located in Rajasthan," police said. On September 12, a police team went to Rajasthan and Govind Ram was arrested from Bharatpur, they said. "Tree mobile phones, which were used in the commission of the crime, were recovered. Efforts are being made to arrest the co-accused," they added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], October 3 (ANI): The Rouse Avenue Court has dismissed the statutory bail plea of former Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Limited (DHFL) promoters, Kapil Wadhawan and his brother Dheeraj, arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the multi-crore bank loan scam case. The two accused were arrested in the present FIR on July 19 this year. Also Read | Bharat Jodo Yatra Enters Day 4 in Karnataka; Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Likely To Join Rahul Gandhi. Statutory bail, also known as default bail, is a right to bail that accrues when the investigation fails to complete within a specified period in respect of a person in judicial custody. According to the plea, bail was agitated as a matter of an indefeasible right for accused Kapil Wadhawan in consequence of the CBI allegedly failing to file the chargesheet against him and co-accused Dheeraj Wadhawan within 60 days of their arrest. Also Read | Gujarat: Communal Clash in Savli Over Displaying Religions Flag; 36 Arrested. Special Judge Vishal Gogne in an order passed on September 30, 2022, while dismissing the bail petition stated that the filing of the present chargesheet in the present investigation shall be governed by Section 167(2)(a)(i) CrPC which provides for a maximum period of 90 days. Since the period of 90 days has not yet expired in the present investigation, which also relates to Section 409 IPC, applicants Kapil Wadhawan and Dheeraj Wadhawan are not entitled to statutory bail under Section 167(2) CrPC. Both applications are dismissed, said the court. According to the FIR, based on a complaint made by Union Bank of India allegation that Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Ltd. (DHFL), Kapil Wadhawan, the then CMD, Dheeraj Wadhwan, the then Director, both DHFL and other accused persons entered into a criminal conspiracy to cheat the Consortium of 17 banks led by Union Bank of India and in pursuance of the said criminal conspiracy the said accused Kapil Wadhwan and others induced the consortium banks to sanction huge loans aggregating to Rs 42,871.42 crore. Much of this amount was allegedly siphoned off and misappropriated by alleged falsification of the books of the DHFL and dishonest default in repayment of the legitimate dues of the said consortium banks. The complainant alleged that a wrongful loss of Rs 34,615 crore was caused to the consortium banks in as much as such was the quantification of the outstanding dues as on July 31, 2020, alleged the Central Bureau of Investigation. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jammu, Oct 3 (PTI) Former Jammu and Kashmir ministers Taj Mohi-ud-din and R S Chib were on Monday appointed as the treasurer and the general secretary respectively of the newly-floated Democratic Azad Party (DAP). DAP chairman and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad appointed Mohi-ud-din and Chib to the posts, the party said in a statement. Also Read | Gas Price Hike: CNG Prices Likely To Be Hiked by Rs 8-12 per Kg, Piped Gas Rate May Go Up by Rs 6 per Unit, Say Analysts. Azad (73), who quit the Congress on August 26, launched the DAP in Jammu on September 26 with the support of dozens of former ministers, former MLAs and other prominent leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, most of whom had also resigned from the Congress in solidarity with him. Azad was unanimously elected as the chairman of the DAP on October 1, following a resolution passed at a session of the party's founder-members, which was held both in Jammu and Srinagar. Also Read | Maharashtra Shocker: Man Found Dead in Jalgaon With Slit Throat, Injury Marks on Forehead; Case Registered. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Lakhimpur Kheri (UP)/New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Farmer leaders on Monday renewed their demand for the sacking of Union minister Ajay Kumar Mishra as they observed the first anniversary of the Tikunia violence in which his son is the main accused. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, said the families of farmers who were mowed down by a car in Lakhimpur Kheri were yet to get justice and that nothing can be more insulting that the "culprit" remained a member of the Union council of ministers. Also Read | Credit Quality of India Inc Strengthens in April-September 2022, Says ICRA. Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait said, "We have not forgotten the Kheri case nor will the government be allowed to forget it. Nothing short of Ajay Mishra's dismissal will be acceptable to us." He was addressing a gathering of over 600 people at an event at a gurudwara in Kaudiyala Ghat, where tributes were paid to the four farmers who were killed in the violence. Also Read | Wipro, Infosys, Tech Mahindra Revoke Offer Letters Given to Freshers, Say Reports. Mishra's son Ashish was arrested after a car mowed down the farmers who were protesting in Lakimpur Kheri's Tikunia against the visit of Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. In the subsequent violence, two BJP workers and a driver were also killed. Tikait said they will place the demand for Mishra's sacking during the proposed nationwide agitation of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) on November 26. "Protests will be held in all state capitals during which the demand for the dismissal of Ajay Mishra and also the release of four farmers lodged in jails will be raised prominently," Tikait said. These four farmers were arrested in connection with the retaliatory violence in which the BJP workers were killed on October 3 last year. Tikait also extended a help of Rs 2 lakh to each of the families of the four farmers lodged in jails. The SKM is standing along with the farmers, Tikait said, and appealed to them to raise their demands in a peaceful manner during the November 26 protests. Protests were also held in Punjab's Phagwara where farmers demanded the withdrawal of "cooked up" cases registered against them during their stir against the now-repealed agri laws besides the sacking of Mishra. Members of the Bharti Kisan Union (Doaba), led by the outfit's vice president Kirpal Singh Moosapur and general secretary Satnam Singh Sahni, staged a demonstration at Sugar Mill crossing on the national highway and raised slogans against the central government and Mishra. They also submitted a memorandum, addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to Phagwara Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr Nayan Jassal demanding Mishra's dismissal. Meanwhile, the Congress too attacked the Modi government over the continuation of Mishra as a minister "One year has passed, but the martyr farmers of Lakhimpur Kheri have not received justice. Reason is the same -- BJP, as always, has been protecting criminals," Rahul Gandhi said on Twitter. He said the farmers' agitation was a big inspiration for the Congress when it decided to undertake the Bharat Jodo Yatra. "This struggle will not end without ensuring justice to the farmers," he added. AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said the "farmer massacre" exposed the anti-farmer face of the BJP government. "Despite the agitation, neither did the farmers get the law on Minimum Support Price nor justice for the martyred farmers," she said. The party's General Secretary (Communications) Jairam Ramesh said, "Nothing can be more insulting that the farmers agitating against the black laws were deliberately killed while the culprit remains a member of the Union council of ministers." There was clear evidence that the minister's son was involved in the killing, he alleged. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Panaji, Oct 3 (PTI) Former Goa transport minister Pandurang Raut passed away on Monday after a brief illness, sources close to his family said. Also Read | WATCH | Today, Induction of the Countrys First Indigenous LCH is Taking Place in the IAF. Latest Tweet by Prasar Bharati News Services. Also Read | Gujarat: Communal Clash in Savli Over Displaying Religions Flag; 36 Arrested. He was 76. Raut was not keeping good health for some time. He passed away at his residence in Bicholim in North Goa on Monday morning. The former Bicholim MLA was an active member of the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party till he formed the Goa Praja Party in 2017. He was elected as an MLA for the first time in 1989 on the MGP ticket from Bicholim and once again in 1999. He served as a Cabinet minister between February 1991 and April 1994. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and state Health Minister Vishwajit Rane expressed condolences. Saddened by the demise of Former Goa Minister Shri Pandurang Raut. His contribution to the Development of Goa and his service to the people will always be remembered. My deepest condolences to the family. May God bestow sadgati to the departed soul. Om Shanti, the chief minister tweeted. (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], October 3 (ANI): Customs officials at the Indira Gandhi International Airport seized gold paste of around 1 kg worth Rs 41.35 lakh that had been hidden in the lavatory of an aircraft that arrived from Dubai, a senior officer said on Monday. Praveen Kumar Bali, Joint Commissioner of Customs, said in a statement, "On the basis of profiling, Flight no. Al-930 was rummaged on arrival from Dubai on September 29 at Terminal-3 of IGI Airport in New Delhi. The officers of Customs during rummaging of flight no Al-930 recovered a grey colour pouch from the back panel of the toilet seat of flight no. Al-930." Also Read | Wipro, Infosys, Tech Mahindra Revoke Offer Letters Given to Freshers, Say Reports. He said the grey colour pouch contained some substance in paste form and therefore it was taken for extraction, which resulted in the recovery of 937.00 gm gold. It was estimated to be worth Rs 41.35 lakh, the officer said. The gold recovered along with its packing material has been seized. (ANI) Also Read | Betting Sites Ads: Centre Asks News Websites, TV Channels To Refrain From Carrying Advertisements of Offshore Betting Sites. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jodhpur, Oct 3 (PTI) The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Monday inducted the first fleet of indigenously-built Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) "Prachand", 23 years after the need for such a lethal platform for mountain warfare was felt following the Kargil conflict with Pakistan. Developed by state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the 5.8-tonne twin-engine chopper is armed with air-to-air missiles, 20-mm turret guns and rocket systems, and is capable of destroying enemy tanks, bunkers, drones and other assets in high-altitude regions. Also Read | Credit Quality of India Inc Strengthens in April-September 2022, Says ICRA. The helicopter possesses modern stealth characteristics, robust armour protection and formidable night-attack capability, and is fully capable of even operating in Siachen, the world's highest battlefield. The fleet comprising four helicopters was inducted into the IAF at a ceremony at the Jodhpur Air Force Station in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari and other senior military officials. Also Read | PhonePe Moves Domicile From Singapore to India. In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "The induction of LCH 'Prachanda' is a special moment for the collective resolve of 130 crore Indians to make our nation strong and self-reliant in the defence sector. Congratulations to every Indian!" The defence minister named the helicopter as "Prachand" (fierce) and said the all-terrain, day-and-night chopper perfectly meets the needs of the armed forces and is among the best in its class globally. The IAF said the helicopter's name is a "testimony to its lethality and versatility". The helicopters were given a traditional water-canon salute that followed a multi-religious prayer ceremony and fly-past by Sukhoi jets and Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH). Singh said the induction of the LCH, with its tremendous power and versatility, not only enhances the combat capabilities of the IAF but is also a big step towards self-reliance in defence production. "The induction of the LCH underlines the fact that just as the country trusts the Indian Air Force, the IAF equally trusts indigenous equipment. It is a momentous occasion for India's defence production," he said. The induction of the chopper comes at a time when India and China are locked in a military standoff at certain friction points in eastern Ladakh. In his address, Singh said adequate attention was not paid to the development of indigenous attack helicopters for a long time after independence. However, since the Kargil War in 1999, the need for the LCH was felt more and the chopper was a result of two decades of efforts in that direction. The defence minister later flew a sortie in the chopper, which is designed to deliver a decisive blow to the adversaries on the ground as well as in the air. A senior IAF official said defeating all the challenges of "hot and high" terrain, the LCH Prachand has demonstrated the capability of operating at an altitude of 6,500 metres with an adequate payload. Singh said the recent conflicts in Ukraine and elsewhere have shown that heavy weapon systems and platforms, which do not allow for rapid movement in the battlefield, are sometimes vulnerable and become easy targets for the enemy. Therefore, the need of the hour is to move towards the development of those equipment and platforms, which are mobile, have ease of movement, are more flexible, and at the same time, meet the requirements of the armed forces. "In this context, the LCH has been developed with an unprecedented balance of all these features and the HAL should be congratulated for this," the minister said. Singh also praised the role of the IAF in meeting internal as well as external threats to the country since independence and complimented it for reposing confidence in indigenously-developed platforms. Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari said the LCH adds a unique capability to the IAF's combat potential and the versatility and offensive potential of the platform is on par or better than most attack helicopters operating globally. He said the selection of the personnel in the 143-helicopter squadron was made on the basis of professional competence so as to ensure the operationalisation of the unit at the earliest. Managing Director of the HAL, CB Ananthakrishnan, said the helicopter has potent ground attack and aerial combat capability, adding that the need for developing a light combat helicopter for mountain warfare was felt during the Kargil War. "Subsequently, the IAF and the HAL began exploring the possibility of developing the platform with a capacity to carry an adequate weapon load, sufficient fuel and still be capable of operating in the higher reaches of the Himalayan ranges," said an official. By mid-2010, the prototype of the LCH completed a major flight test and was deemed to have met the desired parameters. In February 2020, the LCH was declared ready for production. In March, the prime minister-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the procurement of 15 indigenously-developed Limited Series Production (LSP) LCH at a cost of Rs 3,887 crore. The defence ministry had said 10 helicopters would be for the IAF and five for the Indian Army. The LCH has similarities with Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv. The LCH is equipped with the requisite agility, manoeuvrability, extended range, high-altitude performance and all-weather combat capability to perform a range of roles, including combat search and rescue (CSAR), destruction of enemy air defence (DEAD) and counter-insurgency (CI) operations. The helicopter can also be deployed in counter-insurgency operations in the jungles and urban environments as well as for supporting ground forces. The helicopter can be used against slow-moving aircraft and remotely-piloted aircraft (RPAs) of adversaries. Officials said it would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of the IAF and the Army. They said state-of-the-art technologies and systems compatible with stealth features such as reduced visual, aural, radar and IR signatures and crash-worthiness features for better survivability have been integrated into the LCH for deployment in combat roles. Several key aviation technologies like a glass cockpit and composite airframe structure have been indigenised, they added. The future series-production version will consist of further modern and indigenous systems, the officials said. The helicopter has been tested under stringent operating conditions, including at the sea level, in desert regions and in Siachen. The Army has a plan to acquire 95 LCH largely for a combat role in the mountains. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Roorkee (Uttarakhand) [India], October 3 (ANI): The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) in its pursuit to develop cutting-edge technology solutions on Monday opened up a state-of-the-art laboratory named 'Rock and Fluid Multiphysics Laboratory'. The lab was inaugurated by Padma Bhushan Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Honorable Member, NITI Aayog in the august presence of Professor Ajit K Chaturvedi, Director, IIT Roorkee, Professor Manoranjan Parida, Deputy Director, IIT Roorkee, and Professor Akshay Dwivedi, Dean SRIC, IIT Roorkee. Also Read | Maharashtra Shocker: Man Found Dead in Jalgaon With Slit Throat, Injury Marks on Forehead; Case Registered. Professor Manika Prasad, Colorado School of Mines, USA, along with Professor Anand Joshi, Head Earth Sciences, and other respected faculty colleagues of IIT Roorkee and students also graced the inaugural ceremony. This lab hosts some of the cutting-edge tools and technologies in the domain of Applied Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering. It can facilitate multiphysics and multiscale experiments and create feasibility models for increasing the success rates of the exploration and development targets of energy companies in their efforts to successfully exploit conventional and unconventional energy resources. Also Read | Delhi: Over 400 Fresh Cases of Dengue Reported in Last Week of September 2022, Tally Rises to 937. The laboratory has a Low-Frequency System that provides dynamic estimates of the seismic rock property response in the range of 0.1 Hz to 3000 Hz, under 'insitu' conditions. This simulates the insitu reservoir under hydrostatic assumptions. The Pseudo Triaxial Setup provides the static (0 Hz) estimates of the elastic and the associated geo-mechanical attributes in the formations of mineral deposits under more realistic subsurface conditions. In addition to these seismic domain investigations, the laboratory is also capable of making an observation in the resistivity domains using economic and non-destructive techniques like spectral induced polarization (SIP) measurements and the cation exchange capacity (CEC) measurements. This Multiphysics approach to understanding the physical processes of rock and fluid and their interactions in the laboratory and helps a great deal in upscaling the observations to understand the field measurements. Given the complexity of the subsurface in terms of its constituents and environment, the energy resource can be extremely challenging to identify and characterize. The key is to unlock the precious energy resources held in these rocks using a Multiphysics approach where the constraints from each physics principle help in getting a fully converging solution with the least uncertainty. The Rock and Fluid Multi-physics laboratory at IIT Roorkee is well equipped to fulfill this role. This lab can handle characterization challenges of the oil and gas reservoir in routine (more homogeneous and good permeability) and complex (very heterogeneous and poor permeability) formations including the hydrates and the geothermal systems. The lab can also carry out carbon utilization and storage feasibility studies for formations such as shales, organic-rich resources, carbonates, coals, saline aquifers, coals, and volcanic rocks. Hence, this lab can prove to be of significant value addition in helping the geoscientist and petroleum engineers in having an insight into the physical processes happening inside the earth and make well-constrained decisions with minimum possible uncertainty. Professor Ravi Sharma, Ph D, In-charge, Rock and Fluid Multi-physics Laboratory, IIT Roorkee, highlighted, "In the laboratory, we simultaneously experiment with rock physics modeling to investigate the multi-physical properties of rocks, fluids and their interactions at benchtop and in-situ condition. It is very challenging to invert for the subsurface properties but the critical feasibility models from this laboratory can help reduce the uncertainty to understand the potential of oil & gas, hydrates, and geothermal resources." Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, said, "State of the art laboratory like these fits very well into the dynamics of the challenges associated with exploration and development of energy resources hosted in the complex subsurface formation. This laboratory would also be a significant boost to the efforts of carbon sequestration and a good understanding of the associated implications with the help of feasibility models created in the lab. My best wishes to Prof. Sharma and hope to see some field applicable solutions coming out from the laboratory in near future." Professor Ajit K Chaturvedi, Director, IIT Roorkee, said, "The Rock and Fluid Multi-physics Laboratory at IIT Roorkee is ideally located near the Himalayan Mountain ranges and very close to the headquarters of ONGC. This lab will significantly contribute to the petroleum engineering profession, groundwater exploration and resource characterization. This will help towards a sustainable approach in energy exploration." (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 3 (PTI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday condoled the death of NRI businessman and Atlas Group chairman M M Ramachandran, who reportedly died due to age-related ailments in Dubai, UAE, on October 2. The businessman, also known as 'Atlas' Ramachandran, was 80. Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir: Journalist Arrested After University Teacher Accuses Him of Rape, Extortion and Trafficking. Vijayan, in a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), said the businessman was active in public forums and cultural gatherings in Dubai and had close contacts with the non-resident Malayalis. He also helped the poor, the Chief Minister said in the statement. Also Read | Google Pixel 7 & Pixel 7 Pro India Pre-Booking To Begin on October 6, 2022. Expressing his condolences, he said Ramachandran, who was a jeweller and also a film producer, died before he could realise his desire to return to his native land of Kerala. The businessman is well known for his tagline -- 'trusted institution of crores' -- and besides producing movies, has also acted in some. Ramachandran, born in Thrissur district of Kerala in 1942, started his career as a bank employee before moving into the jewellery business, the CMO statement said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Khandwa (MP), Oct 3 (PTI) Right-wing activists created ruckus by intercepting a vehicle transporting a group of children to a programme at a school in Madhya Pradesh's Khandwa on Monday, accusing the organisers of religious conversion, police said. Also Read | Credit Quality of India Inc Strengthens in April-September 2022, Says ICRA. The incident occurred when a vehicle was transporting a group of tribal boys and girls to a programme being organised at Saint Pius School in Khandwa, an official said. Also Read | PhonePe Moves Domicile From Singapore to India. Activists of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal stopped the vehicle near the school, alleging that the children were being taken for religious conversion. According to eye-witnesses, the right-wing activists stopped the vehicle for a long time till the police and district officials reached the spot. The VHP's district secretary Animesh Joshi claimed that they had stopped the vehicle after receiving information that a group of tribal boys and girls were being brought for religious conversion. Action should be taken against the organisers, as they were conducting the programme without permission, he said. Sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Arvind Chouhan, who also reached the spot following the incident, said the police were investigating the matter, as the programme was organised without any prior permission. The police have recorded the statements of the children, organisers and school teachers and further legal steps will be taken after a probe, he said. Meanwhile, Father Jose, the organiser of the programme, claimed that only catholic boys and girls were invited for the programme, and efforts to seek permission for the event from the district administration were not successful. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, Oct 3 (PTI) The Mumbai police have registered a case against a man who committed suicide after killing his wife and two children two months ago in the eastern suburb of Govandi here, an official said on Monday. Also Read | Delhi: Over 400 Fresh Cases of Dengue Reported in Last Week of September 2022, Tally Rises to 937. The police on Sunday registered a case of murder against Shakeel Khan who hanged himself at his house in Indira Nagar area on July 29 after poisoning his wife and two children, the official from Shivaji Nagar police said. Also Read | Andheri East Assembly By-Election 2022: After Court Battle, Eknath Shinde Faction and Shiv Sena To Square Off in First Electoral Contest in Mumbai. The police had initially registered an accidental death report (ADR). But the medical report later revealed that Khan had intentionally given his wife Raziya and children Sarfaraz (7) and Atika (3) poison to kill them, he said. Khan used to run a grocery store in the area and had allegedly taken the extreme step as he was facing losses in his business, the official said. The deaths came to light when Khan did not open his store at the usual time and one of his relatives came to check on him, and peeped into the house and saw the bodies, he added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Srinagar, Oct 3 (PTI) A non-local bank manager escaped unhurt after terrorists fired at him in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, officials said. The incident took place in Goushbugh in the Pattan area of the north Kashmir district, they said. Also Read | Gujarat: Communal Clash in Savli Over Displaying Religions Flag; 36 Arrested. Further details are awaited. (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], October 3 (ANI): Minister for Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Giriraj Singh recognized North Goa and South Goa as 'Har Ghar Jal' certified districts where all households have access to clean water through taps. This was announced at a Swachh Bharat Diwas event organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti on Sunday. The Ministry of Jal Shakti celebrated Swacch Bharat Diwas on Sunday to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Also Read | Wipro, Infosys, Tech Mahindra Revoke Offer Letters Given to Freshers, Say Reports. Earlier, in the event, Goa was also felicitated by the President of India Droupadi Murmu for being the first state in the country to achieve 100 percent 'Har Ghar Jal' certification from the Union Jal Shakti Ministry. President Droupadi Murmu also congratulated Goa for being a '1st Har Ghar Jal' certified State, and for securing 2nd position in the Functionality Assessment 2021-22 under more than 60 percent coverage category. "Hon'ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu felicitated Goa on becoming the first state with 100 percent Certified Coverage of Jal Jeevan Mission", Goa CM Pramod Sawant tweeted. Adding, "I thank Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Ji for all the support and guidance. Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India is transforming the water supply with Jal Jeevan Mission". Also Read | Betting Sites Ads: Centre Asks News Websites, TV Channels To Refrain From Carrying Advertisements of Offshore Betting Sites. Earlier in August, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Goa for becoming the first state in the country to become 'Har Ghar Jal' certified. "The country and especially Goa has achieved a milestone today. Today Goa has become the first state in the country, which has been Har Ghar Jal certified. Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu have also become Har Ghar Jal certified Union Territory," PM Modi 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) New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) A 33-year-old man, accused in the killing of Delhi Police Head Constable Ratan Lal during the 2020 northeast Delhi riots, was arrested from Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh, police said on Monday. The accused, Mohd Wasim alias Bablu alias Salman, a resident of Chand Bagh, was declared a "Proclaimed Offender" by the Delhi High Court, they said. Also Read | Maharashtra Shocker: Man Found Dead in Jalgaon With Slit Throat, Injury Marks on Forehead; Case Registered. Apart from Lal, the then Shahdara DCP Amit Sharma and then ACP Gokalpuri Anuj Kumar also sustained serious injuries, police said. 50 other policemen were also among the injured. Also Read | Delhi: Over 400 Fresh Cases of Dengue Reported in Last Week of September 2022, Tally Rises to 937. Ravindra Singh Yadav, Special Commissioner of Police (Crime) said during the investigation, police identified and arrested 22 accused with the help of the analysis of CCTV footage and videos, amped video enhance technique, call detail records, statements of the witnesses and disclosures of the accused persons. Of 22, five accused absconded and were declared "Proclaimed Offenders" by the High Court, they said. "To apprehend the absconding accused persons, a special team was constituted and during the course of investigation, the team developed information and deployed sources in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh as houses of the accused were found locked after the incident," he said. Thereafter, raids were conducted at several places in Delhi, but no clue was found about the accused, he added. The officer said the investigation started moving forward after ASI Mohd. Rahisuddin received inputs regarding one accused named Wasim, who was staying in a very clandestine manner in the Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh. Thereafter, information was developed from Aligarh and it was confirmed that the accused was working in a small factory of one Dilshad. By then the team had also established his precise location, which subsequently paved the way for his arrest. During interrogation, Wasim told police that in 2010, he came to Delhi and started living at his parents' house. He along with his friends started participating in the Anti-CAA protest in February 2020 where he came in contact with several rabble rousers and anti-social elements, he said. On the day of the incident, he along with his associates, placed a carton of thinner-filled glass bottles also called crude bombs on the terrace of a house. These bottles were later thrown at police officers during the riots, he said. After the incident, the accused destroyed his mobile phone and did not even contact his relatives in the last two years, he added. After absconding, the accused who has two children started working in a small lock-making factory of Dilshad in Aligarh. Earlier, he used to work in a suitcase shop in the Sadar Bazar area of Delhi. According to police, on January 24, 2020, HC Lal, who was suffering from mild fever and was advised to take rest by his colleagues, joined duty in view of the grave tension in the area. He helped the then DCP and ACP in pacifying the crowd and controlling it as the situation started heating up. He succumbed to 24 injuries he received while shielding officers when the crowd started attacking them. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Ahmedabad, Oct 3 (PTI) President Droupadi Murmu will start her two-day Gujarat tour on Monday by visiting the Mahatma Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati in Ahmedabad and also inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for projects worth Rs 1,330 crore at a function in Gandhinagar, according to a state government release. Also Read | Apple Admits Watch Series 8, Watch Ultra Microphone Issues. Also Read | UP Shocker: 'Hanuman' Dies on Stage During Ramlila Performance in Fatehpur, Video Goes Viral. This will be her first visit to Gujarat as the President. "On the first day of her two-day Gujarat visit, President Murmu will offer prayers at the Gandhi Ashram before taking part in the event in Gandhinagar which will also be attended by Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel," the state government release said. Later in the day, she will inaugurate/lay the foundation stone for various projects related to health, irrigation, water supply and port development at GMERS, Gandhinagar, a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said. In the evening, she will attend a civic reception hosted by the government of Gujarat in her honour in Gandhinagar, it added. The Gandhi Ashram, also known as Sabarmati Ashram, was one of the many residences of Mahatma Gandhi when he was not travelling across India or in prison. It was from here Mahatma Gandhi led the Dandi march, also known as the Salt Satyagraha on March 12, 1930. On October 4, the president will launch 'herStart' -- a start-up platform of Gujarat University for women entrepreneurs -- and lay the foundation stone for various projects related to education and tribal development at Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, the statement said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jodhpur, Oct 3 (PTI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday flew a sortie in a Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) after a fleet of the highly agile choppers was inducted into the Indian Air Force. After the sortie, Singh said at the Jodhpur Air Force station that the LCH 'Prachand' is capable of sending out a message to India's adversaries and that the all-terrain lethal platform also has export potential. Also Read | Credit Quality of India Inc Strengthens in April-September 2022, Says ICRA. "The LCH is capable of dodging the enemy, carrying a variety of ammunition, and delivering it to the site quickly. The LCH perfectly meets the needs of our armed forces in various terrains," he said. "In such a situation, LCH is an ideal platform for both our Army and Air Force," he added. Also Read | PhonePe Moves Domicile From Singapore to India. The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted four indigenously-built LCHs, which have been developed primarily for mountain warfare after a requirement for it was felt during the Kargil war in 1999. The IAF's newly raised No.143 helicopter unit is operating the platforms manufactured by state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). "I was told that the LCH has been designed and developed to suit the needs of the modern battlefield. In various types of testing in its developmental stages, it has shown its ability to deal with all the challenges," the defence minister said. "There could hardly have been a better time than Navratri, the festival of worship of Ma Durga, for the induction ceremony of LCH, and a better place than the soil of Rajasthan," he said. Singh was speaking at the induction ceremony. The LCH is an indigenously developed multi-role attack helicopter equipped with advanced avionics and lethal weapon systems. The helicopter is designed to carry out offensive roles in high-altitude areas like Ladakh and Siachen. The narrow fuselage with tandem cockpit configuration makes LCH an extremely manoeuvrable and agile platform to effectively undertake offensive operations. Advanced technologies and stealth features of LCH like low radar cross section and minimal infra-red signatures allow it to go behind enemy lines undetected and attack with precision. "With a sleek design, high agility, precision and absolute lethality this aircraft is a formidable warfighter," said an IAF official. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Noida, Oct 3 (PTI) An 11-year-old boy was on Monday rescued from kidnappers following two separate gunfights with the police in Greater Noida in which one of the suspects died, while two others were held, officials said. A police officer was also injured in the cross-firing and is undergoing treatment at a hospital, while another had a close shave as he was hit by a bullet on his bullet-proof vest, the officials said. Also Read | Credit Quality of India Inc Strengthens in April-September 2022, Says ICRA. The child was kidnapped by the suspects on Saturday who had demanded a ransom of Rs 30 lakh from his family, based in Luksar village, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Greater Noida) Abhishek Verma said. An FIR was lodged at the local Ecotech 1 police station on Sunday and an investigation launched while security was beefed up in the region to trace the suspects, the officer said. Also Read | PhonePe Moves Domicile From Singapore to India. "The child's family had informed police that he was missing since Saturday at 11.30 am and the case was lodged at the local police station on Sunday. "The family also claimed to have got a Rs 30-lakh ransom call for the child's release, Verma said. The family provided the ransom amount to the unidentified kidnappers Monday morning around 6 am, with officials involved in the probe saying the suspects had asked the child's father to drop the money-filled bag at an isolated location. They had assured of releasing the child once they had the money in their custody, the official added. The kidnappers told the father of the child to proceed to another location where the child was kept confined, even as the police team investigating the matter closely monitored the situation. Once the boy was reunited with the family at around 7 am, the police team, based on information, set up checks on several road points in the area and were able to intercept two of the kidnappers, who were on a motorcycle, near Luksar village, according to the police. When intercepted, the suspects Vishal and Rishabh opened fire at the police party. They were hit on their legs in retaliatory action after which they were taken into custody and sent to hospital for treatment, DCP Verma said. He said teams from Beta 2, Dadri, Ecotech 1 and other police stations were roped in for the case besides the SWAT team, which got information about the movement of the third suspect in the afternoon, leading to the second encounter. The third suspect Shivam - was intercepted by a police team near Chuhadpur underpass but he opened fire on the police party, prompting retaliatory action in which he was hit by two bullets. He was taken to a hospital for treatment but was declared dead by doctors, the police officer said. A motorcycle and Rs 29 lakh were seized from his possession, he said. The suspect had cases under IPC section 376 (rape) and under POCSO Act against him lodged in Budaun district, Verma said, citing preliminary inquiry into his criminal history. The fourth suspect who has been identified as Vishal Pal is still at large, with the police saying they are making efforts to arrest him soon. The police also said they have recovered Rs 29 lakh even as the ransom demand was Rs 30 lakh. Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Alok Singh announced a reward of Rs 50,000 for the police team involved in the case and later visited the hospital to meet the injured police official Varun Panwar. Further legal proceedings in the case are being carried out, the police added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, Oct 3 (PTI) Two people were arrested on Monday for alleged possession of two country-made pistols and six cartridges in suburban Versova here, police said. Also Read | Gas Price Hike: CNG Prices Likely To Be Hiked by Rs 8-12 per Kg, Piped Gas Rate May Go Up by Rs 6 per Unit, Say Analysts. The police nabbed the duo at MHADA Four Bungalows locality, where they arrived to deliver and purchase weapons, an official said. Apart from the weapons, the police also recovered Rs 40,000 cash from the accused Shanisingh Mukeshsingh Thakur (21) and Abdul Kareem Qureshi (48), he said. Also Read | Maharashtra Shocker: Man Found Dead in Jalgaon With Slit Throat, Injury Marks on Forehead; Case Registered. Investigations have revealed that Thakur, a native of Jaunpur in Uttar Pradesh, had come to the locality to deliver the pistols and cartridges to Qureshi, the official said. Thakur is a daily wage labourer, while Qureshi runs a garage in Patan Wadi locality of Malad, he said. The accused have been arrested under relevant sections of the Arms Act and have been remanded to police custody till October 6, the official added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, Oct 3 (PTI) A private equity fund promoted by domestic brokerage Motilal Oswal on Monday announced that it has garnered commitments of Rs 4,500 crore for a new platform. The fund was raised primarily from high net-worth individuals and family offices by Motilal Oswal Alternatives (MOA) for the India Business Excellence Fund (IBEF) IV, as per an official statement. Also Read | Google Pixel Watch Listed on Amazon With Its Pricing: Report. With the latest close, the overall assets under management for MOA touches Rs 14,000 crore, and three-fourths of the money or commitments have been sourced from domestic investors from 55 cities. The newest fund is sector agnostic one which will look for opportunities in the consumer, financial services, life sciences and niche manufacturing, it said. Also Read | Samsung Galaxy A04s With 5,000mAh Battery Debuts in India. Acknowledging the growth in the startup ecosystem, it said 10-15 per cent of the investments will be in the tech sector, it added. Even before the final close, IBEF IV has already made two investments -- in Mankind Pharma-promoted diagnostic chain Pathkind and tile manufacturer Simpolo, the statement said. In addition, definitive agreements for two more investments have already been signed, it said, adding that half of the overall funds raised will be committed by March 2023. MOA, which started in FY07, has made 35 investments and 15 exits till now, it said, adding that some of its notable bets include facilities management company Updater Services, AU Financiers which has now turned into a small finance bank, Dixon Technologies, and Molbio Diagnostics. The statement claimed the company has the ability to spot opportunities in tier-II and tier-III centres and invest in them. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, October 3: Fintech player PhonePe, a part of the Walmart Inc-controlled Flipkart group, on Monday said it has completed the process of moving its domicile from Singapore to India. The development comes ahead of its plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) for expanding its financial services portfolio and deepening its core United Payments Interface (UPI)-based payments operations and investment banking. PhonePe Clarifies UPI Money Transfers, Offline & Online Payments Are Free: Report. Over the past year, PhonePe has moved all businesses and subsidiaries including Insurance Broking Services and Wealth Broking businesses of PhonePe Singapore to PhonePe Pvt Ltd - India directly, the company said in a statement. PhonePe Services Go Off After RBI Puts Moratorium on YES Bank Operations, Users Resent on Social Media. Secondly, it said, PhonePe's board recently approved the creation of a new ESOP plan and the migration of more than 3,000 PhonePe Group employees' existing Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) by issuing new ESOPs under PhonePe India's new plan. Finally, under the newly liberalized automatic Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) rules, PhonePe has also moved the ownership of recently acquired IndusOSAppstore (OSLabsPte Ltd) from Singapore to India, it said. Thus, it said, all PhonePe Group businesses and entities are now wholly-owned by and consolidated under PhonePe Pvt Ltd-India. The digital payment company is seeking a valuation of USD 8-10 billion and plans to list on Indian bourses. PhonePe was founded by ex-Flipkart executives Sameer Nigam, Rahul Chari and Burzin Engineer, and was acquired by Flipkart in 2016. In 2018, Flipkart was acquired by Walmart, and PhonePe was part of the transaction as well. The company has applied for a mutual fund licence and a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) licence and has acquired three companies -- WealthDesk, OpenQ and GigIndia. PhonePe is the leader in the UPI space, enjoying a 47 per cent market share in monthly transactions. At present, PhonePe holds a mutual fund distribution licence and will be adding stocks and exchange-traded funds to its growing list of wealth management products. It announced that it will launch UPI SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) for investment in gold. Users will be able to invest in high-purity 24K gold of a specified amount every month. The gold can be accumulated in their insured bank-grade lockers, maintained by MMTC-PAMP and SafeGold. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Oct 3 (PTI) Capital markets regulator Sebi on Monday imposed fines totalling Rs 10 lakh on two individuals for failing to give information and not complying with summons issued by the regulator in the matter of Agros Phos India Ltd. A fine of Rs 5 lakh each has been imposed on Hanif Kasambhai Shekh (noticee 1) and Chandraprakash Valchand Parekh (noticee 2), according to the Sebi order. Also Read | Google Pixel Watch Listed on Amazon With Its Pricing: Report. The order came after Sebi received various complaints during the period from December 2019 to February 2020 on the SCORES portal alleging that one website was giving 'buy' recommendations in certain scrip, including Agros Phos India Ltd (AGIL). Further, it was also alleged in the complaint that SMSes through various headers were being circulated, giving recommendation in the shares of AGIL. Also Read | Samsung Galaxy A04s With 5,000mAh Battery Debuts in India. Thereafter, Sebi conducted a probe in the scrip of APIL to ascertain any possible violation of the provisions of the Sebi Act, 1992 for the January-December 2019 period. The regulator found that noticee 1 had failed to comply with the summons dated January 17, 2022 and reminder summons issued to him by Sebi. Also, noticee 2 submitted incorrect/false information to the summons issued to him by the investigating authority. Therefore, Sebi holds that the noticees have violated the summons issued to them by the market watchdog. Meanwhile, in a separate order, Sebi cancelled the registration of stock broker Sri Bheemeswara Securities for violating market norms. The proceedings emanates from the enquiry report dated December 21, 2018 submitted in terms of intermediaries regulations. Based on the findings of the enquiry report, it was recommended that the registration of Sri Bheemeswara Securities Pvt Ltd, as a stock broker of National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSE), be cancelled. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kabul [Afghanistan], October 3 (ANI): The death toll from a suicide bombing at the Kaaj Educational Center in Afghanistan's capital Kabul has gone up to 43. The casualty figures in Friday's college bombing in the Hazara neighbourhood are likely to rise further, as per the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). Till now 43 persons have been killed and around 83 are wounded with girls and young women as the main victims. Also Read | Shri Bhagavad Gita Park in Canada Vandalised; Indian High Commission Condemns Act of Hate Crime. "Human toll from Friday's college bombing in #Hazara neighbourhood of Afghan capital continues to rise. 43 killed. 83 wounded. Girls & young women the main victims. Casualty figures likely to rise further. Verification process continues by UNAMA human rights teams in Kabul," tweeted UNAMA. Earlier, on Friday the blast occurred in the 13th security area of Kabul, Taliban spokesperson Abdul Nafee Takour was quoted as saying by TOLO news. Also Read | India Receives Unusual Praise From Saudi Arabia's World Muslim League for Non-Violence and Tolerance Policy. There are multiple media reports claiming that about 100 students of the institute have been killed in the attack, however, the UNAMA said that its human rights teams in Kabul are helping to establish an accurate record of the college attack in the Hazara neighbourhood. Earlier, a number of women from Afghanistan's minority Hazara community on Saturday protested in Kabul against the terror attack at the Kaaj Educational Center. The women protestors dressed in black chanted slogans against the genocide of minorities and demanded their rights, Pajhwok Afghan News reported. This explosion comes a few days after a blast was reported near the Wazir Akbar Khan area of Kabul that sparked a global outcry. The recent blast outside the Russian Embassy in Kabul was also condemned in the strongest terms. This series of blasts come as the Taliban completed one year of its rule in Afghanistan following the ouster of the US-backed civilian government last year. Rights groups said the Taliban had broken multiple pledges to respect human and women's rights. Meanwhile, the Taliban on Monday shot into the crowd of young girls who were peacefully protesting in Herat to demand their right to go to school. "Young girls were peacefully protesting in Herat today to demand their right to go to school & the Taliban began shooting into the crowd. Don't abandon the women of Afghanistan. Be their voice. Innocent lives are being lost because we choose to be silent," tweeted Shabnam Nasimi, Policy Special Advisor to former UK Minister for Afghan Resettlement and Minister for Refugees. After capturing Kabul in August last year, the Islamic authorities imposed severe restrictions on women's and girls' rights, suppressed the media, and arbitrarily detained, tortured, and summarily executed critics and perceived opponents. Rights groups say that the Taliban's human rights abuses have brought widespread condemnation and imperilled international efforts to address the country's dire humanitarian situation. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Thimphu [Bhutan], October 3 (ANI): The Fourth International Conference on Vajrayana Buddhism with the theme "Modernity of Buddhism" is being hosted in Thimpu, Bhutan at Zhichenkhar. The Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies (CBS) and the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan are organizing this conference in close collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), India. Also Read | Russian Military Train Carrying Nuclear Arms Seen on the Move, Prompts Fear of Escalation in Conflict From President Vladimir Putin's Forces (Watch Video). The conference which started on October 1 will conclude on Tuesday. Eminent practitioners, teachers, scientific researchers, academics and independent scholars are discussing the central theme at the four-day conference. The Keynote address was delivered by Prime minister of Bhutan, His Excellency Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering. A 17-member delegation of IBC is participating in the Conference. Members of the delegation include experts on Vajrayana Buddhism. The delegation is led by Ven. Dr. Dhammapiya, Secretary General, IBC. Also Read | Afghanistan Blast: 46 Girls, Women Among 53 Killed in Kabul Education Centre Bombing, Says UN. The Conference brings together about 400 participants, including 250 internationals representing 26 countries. A press release from CBS stated that the Modernity of Buddhism is another way of saying that most of the insights into Buddhism can be explored as being timelessly relevant or to say that it is not antiquated. The broad theme of the Conference enabled diverse contributions through papers, panel discussions and practice workshops. Speakers addressed ways in which Vajrayana Buddhism had developed across time and geographies and the ways in which its philosophy and practices can actively contribute to global well-being and transformation as the world emerges from the pandemic. The Conference examines the ways in which Vajrayana Buddhism continues to creatively adapt to the modern world. Some of the papers included Connectivity, compassion, and social engagement in Buddhism; Learning "how to be" for a truly sustainable civilization: Rediscovering the Buddhist virtues of contentment of the joy of "simply being"; Mindful awareness as the foundation of the Buddhist path, and a way to bridge ancient wisdom and modern psychology; Global adaptations and evolving forms of Vajrayana Buddhism in the West; Redefining values and priorities in a frantic world: the power of Buddhist reflections on living, growing, aging, dying, and beyond, and Women and yoginis in Buddhism. These were just a few areas of presentations and discussions among many others at the Bhutan Conference on Vajrayana Buddhism. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Tokyo [Japan], October 3 (ANI): Japan's Daikin which has always relied on China for air conditioner parts in the last decade, got fed up with China's long zero Covid policy and decided to dump China for AC parts. Daikin Industries has planned to dump China as it has failed to supply parts for the manufacturing of Air conditioners, reported The Singapore Post. Also Read | Pakistan: Hindu Community Protests After Desecration of Remains of Woman Cremated in Balochistan. Daikin's decision to find an alternative has caused a huge embarrassment to China even as relations between Japan and China completed 50 years. In February, China tightened chip supply after it imposed a lockdown in Suzhou in Jiangsu province. The tough step had a negative impact on the chip supply and fuelled the global chip shortage, reported The Singapore Post. Also Read | Shri Bhagavad Gita Park in Canada Vandalised; Indian High Commission Condemns Act of Hate Crime. The lockdowns to contain COVID spread in Shanghai this year led to a fall in the production of some parts, which impacted Daikin's production as well. The adverse impact on Daikin's production due to China's zero-Covid policy made the company realize the need of having contingency suppliers in other regions, reported The Singapore Post. With the rise in temperature all over the world, the Japanese tech firm wants to capture the AC market and hence it announced that it would start making air conditioners without Chinese-made parts as early as March 2024. By depending on China for chips and other items, Daikin doesn't want to suffer financial losses. For the past few years, Daikin has been fully relying on China for AC parts. Back in 2020, 35 per cent of its air-con components were imported from China, reported The Singapore Post. However, this import record decreased to 20 per cent ever since Shanghai implemented COVID-19 lockdowns. Because of this, Daikin said it now needs contingency suppliers outside China. But, valves, large sheet metal, and other similar parts will still be Chinese-made. Meanwhile, Daikin explained that it would purchase other AC parts from Japan-based manufacturers, as well as other companies located in Southeast Asia, reported The Singapore Post. A report by Nikkei stated that Daikin has developed a way to produce a crucial chipmaking chemical using raw materials from Mexico, an opportunity to reduce reliance on China. Basically, Daikin has developed a purifying process that paves the way for producing hydrofluoric acid from Mexican fluorite minerals, which is less pure than Chinese fluorite, reported The Singapore Post. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Muscat [Oman], October 3 (ANI): Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan arrived in the capital city of Oman, Muscat on Monday for a two-day visit to deepen ties between both the countries. "Arrived in Muscat for a 2-day visit to Oman to deepen the political engagement between both the countries. Look forward to discussions with Omani leadership and interaction with the diverse cross-section of our diaspora," the Union Minister said in a tweet. Also Read | Shri Bhagavad Gita Park in Canada Vandalised; Indian High Commission Condemns Act of Hate Crime. As per a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Union Minister will be in Oman from October 3-4. This will be his second visit to Oman and a part of the periodic exchange of high-level visits to reinforce the shared commitment to an "ever-growing" relationship between both the countries. Muraleedharan, during his visit, will meet the Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, and other senior dignitaries and engage in discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. Also Read | India Receives Unusual Praise From Saudi Arabia's World Muslim League for Non-Violence and Tolerance Policy. He will participate in a community reception and interact with a wide cross-section of the Indian community in Oman, particularly those in the health, education, business, and social service sectors, as per the statement. As per the Embassy of India in Oman, there are about 624,000 Indians in Oman, of which about 4,83,901 are workers and professionals, as of May 2021. There are Indian families living in Oman for more than 150-200 years. Moreover, the two countries hold strong economic, commercial and cultural ties. The Union Minister last visited Oman on 15-17 December 2020. Besides, there has been sustained and frequent exchange of high-level visits between both countries. In 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited Oman, while External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Oman in 2019. In recent months, Foreign Minister of Oman Sayyid Badr al-Busaidi visited India in March 2022, and Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion visited India in May 2022. India and Oman share warm and friendly relations underpinned by historical and cultural linkages and strong people-to-people ties. As per the MEA statement, the visit will provide an opportunity to comprehensively review the state of bilateral relations between India and Oman and to chart pathways to further deepen and strengthen it. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, Oct 3 (AP) The Supreme Court is beginning its new term, welcoming the public back to the courtroom and hearing arguments for the first time since issuing a landmark ruling stripping away women's constitutional protections for abortion. Monday's session also is the first time new Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the court's first Black female justice, will participate in arguments. And the public is back for the first time since the court closed in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read | Shri Bhagavad Gita Park in Canada Vandalised; Indian High Commission Condemns Act of Hate Crime. The court's overturning of the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade abortion decision is still reverberating in legal fights over state abortion bans and other restrictions. But a new stack of high-profile cases awaits the justices. Several cases the court has agreed to hear involve race or elections or both, and the court has also agreed to hear a dispute that returns the issue of free speech and LGBTQ rights to the court. Also hanging over the justices is some unfinished business from last term: the leak of a draft of the abortion decision seven weeks before it was formally announced. Chief Justice John Roberts ordered an investigation, but the court has yet to provide an update. Also Read | Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Likely To Embark on Visit to China Next Month. Jackson, for her part, has been waiting for months to fully begin her new role since being confirmed in April. She was sworn in when Justice Stephen Breyer retired in June, at the end of a term where the court dominated 6-3 by conservatives also expanded gun rights, reined in the government's ability to fight climate change and blocked a Biden administration effort to get workers at large companies vaccinated against COVID-19. Breyer, a liberal, was on the losing side of those cases, and Jackson is also expected to be in dissent in many of the court's most prominent cases. Since she was sworn in, however, the court has largely been on a summer break. The justices met privately last week to consider a long list of appeals that piled up over the summer. On Friday, the justices took the bench for a brief ceremony in which Roberts wished Jackson a long and happy career in our common calling, the traditional welcome for a new justice. But Jackson also joins the court at a time of declining public support for the court. Polls following the court's abortion decision have shown a sharp drop in the court's approval rating and in people's confidence in the court as an institution. A poll over the summer found 43 per cent of Americans saying they have hardly any confidence in the court, up from 27 per cent earlier in the year. On Monday, the court is considering an important water rights case that could limit federal regulation under the nation's main water pollution law, the Clean Water Act. Other significant cases include a controversial Republican-led appeal that could dramatically change the way elections for Congress and the presidency are conducted by handing more power to state legislatures. There's also the case of a Colorado website designer who says her religious beliefs prevent her working with same-sex couples on their weddings. Next month, the justices will hear a challenge to the consideration of race in college admissions.(AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) United Nations, Oct 4 (AP) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Yemen's warring parties on Monday to refrain from any provocations that could escalate violence. The move follows the failure to extend a nationwide cease-fire and to engage with each other to renew the truce. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the secretary-general is disappointed that the internationally recognised government and Houthi rebels didn't reach an agreement before the October 2 deadline. But he stressed: We in no way see it as the end of the road. Also Read | Russian Military Train Carrying Nuclear Arms Seen on the Move, Prompts Fear of Escalation in Conflict From President Vladimir Putin's Forces (Watch Video). The initial two-month truce agreed to on April 2 and extended twice brought the longest lull in fighting since the devastating civil war began in 2014. The failure to renew it for an even longer period as the UN sought has raised fears of renewed clashes and a worsening of the already dire humanitarian situation in the Arab world's poorest country. Dujarric said UN special envoy Hans Grundberg is still in negotiations with the government and the Houthis and will continue to explore options that are acceptable to both parties. Also Read | Afghanistan Blast: 46 Girls, Women Among 53 Killed in Kabul Education Centre Bombing, Says UN. Yemen's civil war began in 2014, when the Iran-backed Houthis seized the capital of Sanaa and much of northern Yemen and forced the government into exile. A Saudi-led coalition including the United Arab Emirates intervened in 2015 to try to restore the internationally recognised government to power. The conflict has created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises and over the years turned into a regional proxy war between Saudi Arabia, which backs the government, and Iran, which supports the Houthis. More than 150,000 people have been killed, including over 14,500 civilians. Last Friday, Guterres urged both sides to prioritise the national interests of the Yemeni people, expand the truce and choose peace for good. His statement followed a stark warning three days earlier from UN envoy Grundberg that the risk of a return to fighting is real. Dujarric, the UN spokesman, said there's still time for the parties to "do what they need to do to benefit the people of Yemen. The truce has directly benefited Yemeni civilians, he said. Major military activity stopped, including Saudi-led coalition airstrikes and Houthi cross-border attacks. Civilian casualties have dropped significantly. Fuel imports through Hodeida ports eased shortages, and international commercial flights out of Sanaa airport to Amman and other destinations have resumed. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kolkata, Oct 3: A Durga idol in Kolkata in which the Mahisasura (Buffalo demon) was replaced by a crudely crafted Mahatma Gandhi-look alike has created controversy on Sunday, the birth anniversary of the father of the nation. Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha, organisers of the puja near Ruby Crossing in southwest Kolkata, changed the appearance of the idol that looked like Gandhi following instructions from the police after a complaint was lodged. UP Shocker: Hanuman Dies on Stage During Ramlila Performance in Fatehpur, Video Goes Viral. Mahatma Gandhi in Place of Asura .... The Durga Puja at Kolkata's Ruby Park organized by Hindu Mahasabha has Mahatma Gandhi in place of Asura being killed by the deity. pic.twitter.com/wHHGxWI2hM ReenaAjith (@ambath) October 2, 2022 The organisers said the similarities were just a coincidence. According to mythology, Goddess Durga slew Mahusasur in an epic battle to end his evil reign. The Durga idol that was worshipped here initially had a Mahisasur whose face looked similar to that of Mahatma Gandhi. The similarities are just a coincidence. After photos of it went viral, a police team visited the marquee and asked us to change the face, Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha state working President Chandrachur Goswami told PTI. A journalist had earlier in the day tweeted a photograph of the Durga idol, tagging the Kolkata Police. He deleted the post later claiming that the police asked him to do so as it might create tension during the festival. I have been requested by @KolkataPolice cyber cell @DCCyberKP to delete my tweet on a particular puja in Kolkata as they think it might create tension amid the festivities. As a responsible citizen I abide by their request, Alt News Senior Editor Indradeep Bhattacharyya said in a fresh post. Goswami said the organisation didnt mean to hurt anybodys sentiments. The police asked us to change it, and we obliged. We put a moustache and hair on Mahishasurs idol, he said. Durga Puja 2022: Pandal Based on Themes of India-Bangladesh Border and Migrants Issue Turns Up in Dibrugarh. The move drew condemnation from various quarters. We dont support what Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha did. We condemn it. We too had differences with Gandhi jis views, but this is not a way to protest against it, said Sandip Mukherjee, President, Bangiya Parishad Hindu Mahasabha. Political parties such as the Trinamool Congress and the BJP also slammed the alleged depiction of Gandhi as Mahisasura. The ruling Trinamool Congress state spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said if this was really done, it was nothing but sacrilege. It is an insult to the Father of Nation. It is an insult to every citizen of the country. What would the BJP say about such an insult? We know the assassin of Gandhiji belonged to which ideological camp, Ghosh added. The state BJP too castigated such a representation. If such a move had been made, it is unfortunate. We condemn it. This is in poor taste, BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar told reporters. Every year, many puja organisers choose a theme, mainly social issues, and use their pandals, idols and lighting arrangements to depict it. Many a time, the traditional Mahisasura was replaced by something else that represents social evil. London: Ramesh Awasthi, the Chairman of the National Media Club of India is conferred with the Global Humanitarian Award 2022 for the category of Excellence In The Media and Social Sector by the World Humanitarian Drive in London. The World Humanitarian Drive (WHD) is an international non-governmental organisation that promotes peace, education, and business harmony initiatives globally. This Award was presented at a solemn function by the Former President of Trinidad and Tobago, Former Justice of the High Court of Trinidad and Tobago, and former Justice of the International Criminal Court Anthony Carmona SC Ortt, alongside by the First Female President of Luxembourg Parliament Erna Hennicot Schoepges. The honour was bestowed upon him owing to his efforts for promoting Regional Journalists work in India and also for his work during the Covid-19 Pandemic when he financially assisted a journalist family who unfortunately lost his life due to Covid-19. This event witnessed the presence of renowned people invited as special guests including many dignitaries and representatives of more than 43 countries from around the world, current and former parliamentarians, former head of states, academicians, and prominent entrepreneurs. Dignitaries from around the world who attended the program praised Ramesh Awasthi for his incredible work in the Media and Social Sector and congratulated him on receiving the Global Humanitarian Award 2022. The jury formed for the selection of this prestigious award included prominent names such as MP Yusif Zainal, MP Lamin J. Sanneh, MP David Gourzong, Harvard University Director Amb. Sam H. Zakhem, Princess Angelica Sapehia of Poland, UN NGO Ambassador, and Queen of Osun State HRM Queen Angelique Monet, former Minister of State for Transport - United Kingdom Rt. Paul Clark, Former Albanian Finance Minister Prof. Dr. Arben Malaj, Former Telecom Minister of South Sudan Nyenagwek Kuol Mareng, Former Director of the World Bank Dr. James Jung sang Lee and Former Head of UNESCO Dr. Sonia Ramzi. Being the first Indian Journalist to garner this privilege, Ramesh Awasthi has worked for more than 25 years in the field of Journalism and Social Work and has been a former Member of the Hindi Rajbhasha Advisory Committee, Government of India. He has extensively worked towards promoting Hindi throughout India. The ace journalist is also known to be a Sahitya Premi alongside having a huge respect for Bharat Ratna Former Prime Minister Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. As a mark of respect for Late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Ramesh Awasthi is known for organising Atal Kavyanjali on his birth anniversary since many years. During the program Ramesh Awasthi , stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Hindi has taken on a new identity on the Global Stage. Also, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the country has got a new direction and energy, under his leadership the country is progressing on Global stage. India is emerging as a new superpower. Due to which the respect of Indians has increased all over the world, it is a matter of pride for all of us as Indians. Apart from Ramesh Awasthi, Dr. Abdul Basit, who is the Chairman of World Humanitarian Drive said that he is confident that India will soon become a superpower and make its presence felt on the world stage. He said that India means peace and peace means India. The era of black-tapism is over in India. Due to better coordination, trade between India and Britain will be 50 billion dollars in the coming 5 years. It should also be acknowledged that Ramesh Awasthi is the Chairman of the National Media Club of India which has been running a continuous campaign in the country to promote cleanliness and public awareness programs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath including several other Chief Ministers and Governors has also praised the work of National Media Club, former Governor of Uttar Pradesh Ram Naik launched the NMC annual Swachh Bharat Calendar in Uttar Pradesh Governor House & praised the efforts of this club , on various occasions numerous Union Ministers, Social Figures, Dignitaries have also praised National Media Club for their work. National Media Club's annual Media Directory is well-known throughout the country. For the past 15 years, Ramesh Awasthi has been organising NMC India Mango Festival in Delhi, where more than 300 varieties of mango have become a major draw for visitors. More than 150 Indian Parliamentarians, 14 Union Ministers, 12 Former Union Ministers , Ambassadors from various countries, and social figures attended the 2022 Mango Festival in Delhi. Later, this event is known as India's biggest Festival with several Dignitaries from different fields at a single place. Recently Former MP and Bollywood actress Jayaprada also awarded Ramesh Awasthi for his outstanding contribution in the field of Journalism. Two groups clashed and hurled stones at each other over putting up a religious flag in Savli town in Gujarat's Vadodara district, leading to arrest of 36 persons. Mune Gowda, a Hindu activist and Hindavi Mart owner explained that a meeting of Hindu leaders would be held on Monday in this regard. "Jatka cut (Hindu way of killing animals for meat) campaign has to be continued," he said. Actor #Madhavan, better known as actor Maddy to his fans & followers, expressed his deep appreciation for a short film titled, 'I am going to tell GOD everything' saying, the well made film had left him "moved and rattled." Read: https://t.co/7Y4HMgpUQs@ActorMadhavan pic.twitter.com/S0JsTAqAMB IANS (@ians_india) October 3, 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.) #WATCH | The preparations for Air Force Day are underway at Sukhna Lake Chandigarh. Indian Air Force Day is celebrated on October 8. For the first time, Air Force Day will be celebrated outside the Hindon base of Ghaziabad. pic.twitter.com/CRHufLjQSr ANI (@ANI) October 3, 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.) Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant head released from Russian captivity. International Atomic Energy Agency Chief Rafael Grossi said on Oct. 3 that Ihor Murashov, head of Europe's largest nuclear power plant, "returned safely to his family." The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) October 3, 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.) In an interview published almost three years ago, I mentioned I had a dream regarding black artists. My hope at that time--and it is just as strong, if not stronger, today--was that black artists be appreciated in Hollywood as much as white artists. Since that interview was published, there have been some positive strides made in the movie industry. African-American filmmakers such as Spike Lee, Reginald and Warrington Hudlin, Robert Townsend, Keenen Ivory Wayans, John Singleton, Julie Dash and Matty Rich have been able to have their stories told and receive the recognition they so justly deserve. On behalf of my movie-making brothers and sisters, and all actors of color, I must say that Hollywood is finally--although slowly--opening its eyes to the great, diverse pool of black talent. Yet for every step we inch forward, for each iota of progress, there always will be those trying to knock us back down, and there always will be some who cannot accept our success. My new film, Boomerang, directed and produced by the aforementioned Hudlins, is the latest outlet for those critics who feel it necessary to demean and simplify the achievement of black people. Advertisement I must point out now that I am not utilizing this forum to attack, complain about or disagree with movie critics (and their reviews) in general. What has compelled me to this public voicing of opinion is the fact that some reviewers--whether they like the movie or not--have insisted on making an issue about the racial composition of the film. Boomerang is a romantic comedy revolving around the lives of successful black people who work for a successful black company. Some people obviously have a problem with that, for the movie has been called a fantasy, a reverse world and racist. For those who cannot rise above their own ignorance and admit to themselves that there are indeed successful black companies in this country, I suggest a review of the Black Enterprise magazines annual BE 100. The top five black-owned companies on this list generated sales of more than $2 billion--thats billion--in 1991. For those who feel that its racist for a film to have a predominately black cast, one has only to look at the countless movies that portray an all-white world. And consider all those films that did feature small roles for African Americans--we thank you for having the world believe that all people of color are pimps, prostitutes, drug dealers and criminals. For those who believe that black people--regardless of their status--are not confronted with racism on a daily basis, its time to realize whats really happening. The scene in the clothing store in Boomerang is not at all far-fetched. Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen have been turned away from stores; Warrington Hudlin has had trouble getting a cab on the streets of New York; my friends and co-workers have been mistreated in restaurants and on airlines. Boomerang is a movie. For the most part, movies are fantasy. But I cannot be more passionate when I say that the situations found in this film are not from some fictional dream world. Until everyone can realize this, the cancerous roots of racism will continue to spread, and the people of this country will continue to be torn apart and destroyed by the disease of misunderstanding. My dream is still the same. I want African Americans to be able to win Oscars, to do films about our people when we want to, to get films made and to do what we want to as artists. All we want is to be accepted as equals. Peace and loves all right. Brazilian Pedro Rodrigues Filho, alias "Lil' Pedro Killer" or "Pedrinho Matador," is one of Brazil's most infamous serial killers who was convicted of 71 murders. Born in Minas Gerais in 1954, Filho killed his first victim when he was only 14 years old and went on to kill for more than three decades. Filho reportedly killed his own father as a form of revenge for murdering his mother. While growing up, Filho and his mother were heavily abused by his father, who ultimately killed and dismembered his wife. The Brazilian serial killer promised to avenge her mom's death, fulfilling his promise even while he was in prison. According to The Sun, Filho stabbed his father 22 times before he cut out his still-beating heart and chewed it. "I cut out a piece of his heart. I chewed it... But I didn't swallow, I chewed and threw it over the body," he said about this gruesome act. 36-Year Crime Spree of Brazil Serial Killer Pedro Rodrigues Filho Rolling Stone reported that Pedro Rodrigues Filho is believed to have killed 10 people by the time he reached 18. These included the vice-mayor of his town, who fired his father, and a security guard who he believed framed his father. From a young age, Filho reportedly had the urge to kill, which manifested when he was 13. After killing the mayor, his father, and guard, he also murdered another man he believed was the real thief behind a theft he was previously accused of. After this killing, Filho fled to Sao Paolo. While on the run in Sao Paolo, he met a woman named Maria Aparecida Olympia and proposed to her. This was while Filho was in the middle of a crime spree of robbing the slums and murdering a drug dealer. As an act of revenge, the dealer's fellow gang members brutally murdered his then-pregnant fiance. However, this just spurred the serial killer to commit even more acts of violence. He later went on to torture and killed more people in order to get his revenge. He later found out that the gang was organizing a wedding. He went to that wedding and killed many of the gang's members. This all happened when he was still 18. READ NEXT: Inside Terrifying Mexico's 'Cannibal Serial Killer' Murder Spree: 'El Chino' Butchered Victims to Sell Their Meat, Give Them Away Pedro Rodrigues Filho: From Serial Killer to YouTuber Pedro Rodrigues Filho was finally captured in 2003 and was eventually convicted. However, even in prison, he continued to kill fellow inmates, particularly rapists. While he was convicted of 71 murders, Filho claimed to have killed more than 100 people in his lifetime. He reportedly killed over 40 inmates while in prison, which increased his sentence to 400 years. The Brazilian serial killer was initially sentenced to 127 years in prison. According to Grunge, Brazil does not have a lifetime sentence, and an inmate cannot serve more than 30 years in jail for each crime. Thus, Filho was able to walk free in 2007 after serving a total of 34 years in prison. Nowadays, the serial killer is walking free in Brazil, and he even has his own YouTube channel called "Pedrinho EX Matador," which means "Pedrinho Ex-Killer." He now has more than 250,00 subscribers. In a 2020 podcast, Pedro Rodrigues Filho was asked whether he would kill again. He answered: "No. I would only kill again if someone came to take my life or the lives of people I love, who are my family." He added: "Nobody said it would be easy, I assume my mistakes, I paid my penalty, so I don't need to be judged or defended by anyone anymore." READ MORE: Mexican Murderers 'El Chino,' 'Monsters of Ecatepec' Among Most Notorious Serial Killers in Mexico This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Pedrinho Ex Matador: Eu Nao Sou O Monstro - From Pedrinho Ex Matador Guatemala is one of the least visited countries in Central America, but it has amazing spots for adventurers. Uncovering Guatemala's off-the-beaten-path wonders is a trip of a lifetime. It is easy to understand that a well-established "tourist trail" has already been in the works once you dive to the best spots. READ NEXT: Mexico: Top 5 Tourist Spots You Absolutely Must Visit Best Amazing Places in Guatemala Guatemala is, after all, essentially one huge hidden gem in Central America. If this sparked your interest, visit the country and see the tourist attractions that most travelers never knew existed, like the ones below. Semuc Champey Semuc Champey is the most mesmerizing place in Guatemala. It has tiers of blue pools carved into limestone caves and hidden by a thick canopy of beautiful vegetation. It is probably even more appealing because it is off the beaten path and does not get a lot of visitors. Semuc Champey, according to Chimu Adventures, is a beautiful natural reserve in Guatemala. It is about 290 kilometers northeast of Guatemala City, in Alta Verapaz. Here, the Cabahon River flows through a maze of limestone, making water pools clear. Tajumulco Volcano Pacaya and Fuego are the two volcanoes that draw the most attention from tourists to Guatemala, but few people know that Tajumulco Volcano is the tallest mountain in Central America. It is possible, on clear days, to see the Pacific coast shimmering in the distance from the peak, which lies midway between Mexico and El Salvador. Monterrico Nature Reserve Many endangered animals make the Monterrico wildlife reserve home. Every year, hundreds of hatchling sea turtles make the perilous voyage to the ocean along the area's wild and spectacular beach. This tourist attraction is on a different side of Guatemala, with its black volcanic sand leading to a labyrinth of mangrove swamps, lakes, canals, and dazzling volcanoes. Laguna Lachua Laguna Lachua is in the middle of a national park northwest of Coban. It has a rich environment with many kinds of reptiles, birds, mammals, and plants. Since 1976, it has been a national park, and it is a great place to relax or go on an exciting adventure, according to the Culture Trip. Mayan Ruins of Tikal A famous Central American archaeological site can be found in the humid jungles of northern Guatemala, not far from the border with Belize. If you are interested in Mayan history, an excellent tourist attraction in Guatemala is the well-preserved ruins of Tikal. Over 3,000 buildings, including temples, pyramids, plazas, and an acropolis, were erected at Tikal during its 800-year habitation period (600 BC-900 AD). It is one of the biggest Mayan archaeological sites ever discovered and was one of the most important Mayan cities for nearly a thousand years. Livingston on the Caribbean Coast This tiny village off the beaten path is in the middle of the jungle on Guatemala's Caribbean coast. It is made of brightly painted wooden homes spread out among coconut groves. Livingston feels more like the Caribbean than the rest of Guatemala because it has a lot of Garifuna people. The Garifuna are the families of escaped enslaved people and the native Maya. According to Planetware, this group of people has made up its habits and language. There are always Caribbean sounds and rhythms in the city, but in May, a Garifuna pilgrimage gives the city an extra beat. There are also colorful celebrations during the week of Easter and on December 12 for the feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe. READ MORE: Peru: Top 4 Authentic Peruvian Street Food You Should Try This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Tikal - Ancient Mayan City of Guatemala - From devinsupertramp At least 73 people were believed to have died in Florida because of Hurricane Ian, with four more deaths in North Carolina, according to an NBC News count early Sunday. However, the Associated Press had a lower death toll of 47 in Florida from the storm. Numerous individuals died, and hundreds of thousands of residents were still without power and other necessities because of the hurricane's destruction in Florida. It was estimated that repairing the damages would cost billions of dollars. First responders rushed in looking for survivors or bodies of those who died in the 150 mph winds and torrential rain of the Category 4 hurricane that resulted in significant flooding. Authorities said that an elderly couple was among those who died as their oxygen machines stopped working due to a power outage. General Daniel Hokanson, who oversees the National Guard, said they have already rescued more than 1,000 survivors as of Sunday morning. Hour-long queues for gas and thousands of people still trapped in shelters were among the eerie post-apocalyptic sights in Florida. The New York Post reported that the U.S. Coast Guard maintained rescue attempts on Florida's barrier islands by organizing boat evacuations when road access was shut off. READ NEXT: Hurricane Ian Death Toll in Florida: 21 Fatalities Recorded as Rescue Efforts Continue Biden Administration Ready to Help Hurricane Ian Victims in Florida Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator Deanne Criswell said the federal government is ready to assist the victims. Criswell noted that they will give special attention to those in Florida who have been the hardest hit by one of the biggest storms to hit the United States. The state will be visited by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on Wednesday. Many individuals became isolated due to flooded roads, damaged bridges to barrier islands, bad cellphone reception, and a shortage of basic services like internet, electricity, and water. The amount of rain that poured also had nowhere to go because waterways were overflowing, and officials warned that the condition in many locations would not get better for a few days, The Associated Press reported. "We worry a lot about the direct impacts from the storm itself as it is making landfall, but we see so many more injuries and sometimes more fatalities after the storm," Criswell said. "People need to stay vigilant right now. Standing water brings with it all kinds of hazards - it has debris, it could have power lines," she added. Red Cross Sends Help to Hurricane Ian Victims in Florida Hurricane Ian's death toll was believed to be 54: Florida had 47, North Carolina had 4, and three in Cuba. The National Hurricane Center issued a flash flood warning as the weakened storm traveled north Sunday. It was forecasted to pour rain on portions of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and southern Pennsylvania. Due to Hurricane Ian's damage in Florida, the Red Cross is now working to ensure people facing unimaginable destruction have a safe place to stay, food to eat, and comfort. In some of the hardest-hit areas where people can get to them, the organization has many response vehicles moving around to give out water, ready-to-eat meals, and other essential supplies. The organization said they would send more help to reach hard-hit areas as conditions improve. In total, 39 Red Cross shelters were used by more than 3,400 persons in Florida. The organization has also given over 41,000 meals and snacks to needy persons. Moreover, volunteers are also replacing eyeglasses, prescription medications, or critical medical equipment like wheelchairs and canes. READ MORE: Here's Why California Gas Prices Continue to Rise Sharply This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Hurricane Ian Death Toll: More Deaths in Florida Confirmed - From 10 Tampa Bay After a U.S. naval engineer and his wife were arrested for trying to sell confidential data to another country, an army doctor and his wife were also arrested for trying to sell confidential information to Russia. Jamie Lee Henry, an Army major who was also a doctor at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, and his wife, Anna Gabrielian, were both indicted for conspiring to provide the Russian government with medical information about U.S. soldiers and their relatives. NBC News reported that the two had been charged with offering sensitive information to an undercover FBI agent posing as a Russian Embassy representative. American Army Doctor, Wife Committed Act of Espionage With Loyalty Towards Russia According to CNBC, Jamie Lee Henry was a staff internist at Fort Bragg, while his wife was a Russian-speaking anesthesiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Henry is also the first known active-duty Army officer to come out as transgender in 2015. Prosecutors alleged that the couple had met with the purported Russian representative multiple times. On August 17, they met with the undercover FBI agent at a Baltimore Hotel. There, Anna Gabrielian admitted to what she thought was a Russian representative that she was motivated by patriotism toward Russia and said she was willing to provide any assistance to the country. She also admitted that she wanted to do this even if it got her fired or arrested. Henry was also in on the act. He had secret-level security clearance while working at Fort Bragg, which meant he was the one who had access to some high-level secret documents. According to a report by Becker's Hospital Review, Henry told the undercover FBI agents that he had committed to assisting Russia and was even looking to join the Russian Army after the conflict in Ukraine began. He also said: "The way I am viewing what is going on in Ukraine now is that the United States is using Ukrainians as a proxy for their own hatred toward Russia." The indictment against them noted that Gabrielian gave the agent medical information about the spouse of an Office of Naval Intelligence officer. The information highlighted a medical issue that Russia could exploit. The two also provided information on at least five individuals who were patients at Fort Bragg. They include a retired Army officer, a current Department of Defense employee, the spouse of a U.S. Army veteran, and two spouses of deceased U.S. Army veterans. READ NEXT: Maryland Couple Confesses Selling Data of U.S. Submarine Nuclear Reactors to Brazil [REPORT] Two Doctors Commits Espionage It is still unclear whether the couple already has lawyers. However, NBC News reported that they face a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge and a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for each count of disclosing health information. Kim Hoppe, a spokesperson for Johns Hopkins Medicine, released a statement to the media and said that they are shocked by the developments and noted that they intend to fully cooperate with investigators. READ MORE: Mar-a-Lago Search Warrant Unsealed: Donald Trump May Have Violated Espionage Act, Committed Felonies This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Army Doctor And Physician Spouse Charged With Conspiring to Give U.S. Medical Info to Russia - From NBC News The infamous MS-13 gang has become so big of a threat that El Salvador has decided to call in the military to combat them. Now, 2,000 soldiers and police have surrounded the town of Comasagua in an effort to root out gang members. Comasagua is located around 20 miles (30 km) southwest of the capital, San Salvador. According to the Associated Press, this was a large-scale encirclement, with the government under President Nayib Bukele using even more heavy-handed tactics in dealing with MS-13. The entire town was closed off, and anybody entering or leaving the town was questioned and searched. Authorities are reportedly looking for gang members accused of killing. President Nayib Bukele confirmed on his Twitter page that military and police have surrounded members of MS-13 inside the town. President Nayib Bukele Invoking Emergency Powers Against Violent Street Gangs Like MS-13 Last March, MS-13 went on a rampage, with a killing spree that saw 87 people murdered between March 25 and 27. The majority of the casualties, 62 of them, were killed on March 26, making it the bloodiest day in El Salvador's recent history. Following the incident, Bukele requested Congress to grant him extraordinary powers. The decree, which gets renewed every month, suspends several Constitutional rights, providing the police with more power to arrest and hold suspects. READ NEXT: El Salvador Landslides Kill 7 People, Including 3 Children, After Days of Rain This emergency decree has resulted in the arrest of 53,485 people, around 47,893 of whom were charged. According to a report by German news site DW, there are an estimated 70,000 gang members in the country, which has a population of almost 6.5 million. Under the decree's state of exception, the rights temporarily suspended include the right of association, the right to be informed of the reason for an arrest, and access to a lawyer. The emergency powers also allow the government to intervene in the calls and mail of anyone they consider a suspect. It also extends holding persons without charges from three days to 15 days. There have been reports that Bukele and MS-13 had an agreement, but the president is now hunting the gang after they broke that supposedly secret pact. The United States Is Pressuring El Salvador to Extradite MS-13 Gang Leaders According to Reuters, the U.S. State Department asked El Salvadoran authorities to "immediately" extradite leaders of MS-13 to the United States so they can stand trial there. One of the gang leaders the United States has requested is Eliu Melgar, alias "Blue," whom the El Salvadoran government has been holding since 2018. He is wanted in the United States and is accused of allegedly ordering homicides and other crimes on the U.S. east coast. Patrick Ventrell, the U.S. Charge d'Affaires to El Salvador, stated that for El Salvador's government to show how serious they are about reducing gang violence, they have to extradite the most dangerous leaders. It is noted that U.S. prosecutors already charged 14 leaders of MS-13 with terrorism back in January 2021. READ NEXT: El Salvador President Nayib Bukele Asks for Patience as Bitcoin Price Crashes This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: The history of MS-13, from El Salvador to the U.S. - CBS News Some of the White House documents from former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration are still missing, according to the National Archives. Acting Archivist of the United States, Debra Steidel Wall, penned a letter addressed to House Oversight Committee chair Carolyn Maloney. She claimed that White House staff had used "non-official electronic messaging accounts" for official business and were not copied or forwarded into their official accounts. Wall told Congress that they know they "do not have custody of everything" that they should, according to a CBS News report. Wall continued to say in her letter that the Archives will continue to pursue the return of the presidential records from former officials. The acting archivist noted that the National Archives would consult the Justice Department on whether to act for the "recovery of records unlawfully removed," as stated under the Federal Records Act. Wall also cited the Justice Department lawsuit against a top trade Trump adviser, Peter Navarro, in August. The lawsuit was about the retrieval of official email records sent from his personal email account. READ NEXT: Donald Trump Net Worth 2022: Forbes Releases New Estimate of Former President's Wealth Amid New York Business Fraud Case Donald Trump Officials and Missing White House Documents Maloney said in a statement that Trump and his senior staff have "shown an utter disregard for the rule of law," including national security, with their failure to return presidential records. The chairwoman added that she would do anything in her power to return the record and prevent such action from happening again, according to a Reuters report. A congressional panel on September 13 requested a National Archives review after agency staff members noted that they were unaware that all presidential records from the Trump White House had been returned. Meanwhile, representatives of the former president have yet to comment on the matter. Maloney said that it is "outrageous" how some records from Trump's administration had been "unaccounted for 20 months," as reported by NBC News. The chairwoman also requested a written certification from Trump to confirm that he had not made any copies or transferred presidential records to anyone besides the National Archives or the Department of Justice. Donald Trump Mar-a-Lago Documents Trump is facing a criminal investigation brought by the Justice Department for keeping government records, some of which were marked as "top secret," at his Mar-a-Lago, Florida residence. The FBI seized more than 11,000 records, including about 100 documents marked as classified in a court-approved search on August 8. Trump has been arguing for an executive privilege over the Mar-a-Lago documents. However, U.S. President Joe Biden is not supporting the former president's attempt to use that claim. Aside from the Mar-a-Lago documents, Trump has also been claiming executive privilege over January 6 communications. A former counsel with the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Michael Stern, said that Trump's team had laid out a broad argument on executive privilege, according to a New York Times report. Stern said that it remains to be seen how exactly they are going to make their case issues move up to appellate courts. 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: What We Know So Far About The National Archives' Effort To Retrieve Files From Trump - from MSNBC A Nevada mom, identified as Elizabeth Tanner, has been arrested after she attacked a bus driver four times when he failed to deliver her kids on time. Business Insider reported that the 37-year-old was arrested over an incident that occurred on August 17 when she stormed inside the school bus with two other parents. The driver was identified as Vincente Linan. He explained to the district police officers that he was late as he was forced to pull over three times to control the kids inside the vehicle. It was reported that the children were climbing over seats, putting tape over the security camera, and pulling the emergency window. One incident included a girl grabbing the steering wheel and saying that she was going to drive. READ NEXT: Ryan Grantham: 'Riverdale' and 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' Star Admits Killing Mom to 'Save Her' From Seeing His Assassination Attempt on Justin Trudeau Nevada Mom Attacks Bus Driver Linan was reportedly punched by "an irate mom" and broke his glasses. Tanner was identified as the one who punched Linan. She was reportedly angry because the bus was an hour late dropping off her child, according to Clark County School District Police reports. Las Vegas Review-Journal noted that Tanner was yelling and had struck Linan in the face four times. Another parent also took aim at Linan but did not hit him, according to police. A police report noted that a man outside the bus was yelling and making "threatening gun gestures with his hands." Tanner was identified by the school principal, Virginia Ratliff. Upon identification, investigating officer, Eric Schnaidt, called Tanner and left a voicemail. Schnaidt wrote in the arrest report that she did not call back. Schnaidt called again, and her phone was turned off. Tanner was arrested and is now facing four charges of battery on a protected person, one count of burglary of a business, and one count of burglary of a motor vehicle, according to court documents. A statement from the district in response to school bus driver safety noted that the Clark County School District had been "proactive in working to increase safety for all students and employees." The school district said it includes upgrades to the camera systems on all buses. Clark County had also been working to respond to driver shortage. In addition, the district's nearly 2,000 buses have been undergoing a $6 million upgrade to their camera systems. Las Vegas Bus Drivers Attacked In August, two bus drivers were reported to be attacked in separate incidents. Jason Gateley, vice president of the union representing bus drivers, described the incident as "deplorable," adding that there is no excuse "for any worker to be attacked in any workplace," as reported by another Las Vegas Review-Journal. The school district noted that persons of interest had been identified, and investigations regarding the incident are underway. Superintendent Jesus Jara condemned the attack on the bus drivers, adding that the Clark County School District will not "tolerate attacks on our staff or students by anyone." READ MORE: John Lennon Killer: The Disturbing Story of Mark David Chapman Who Was Denied Parole for 12th Time This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Mary Webber WATCH: 2 CCSD bus drivers attacked in separate incidents, district says - from 8 News NOW Las Vegas On November 1, 2021, Joe Dobson, 19, went out to eat with some friends in the beach town of Playa del Carmen in Mexico. The British teen had a fatal allergic reaction after eating a burrito that contained sesame, despite repeatedly asking the restaurant if his burrito contained sesame. According to Yahoo News, the teen requested a vegetarian burrito and repeatedly questioned employees in Spanish and English if his burrito contained sesame. He has allergies to sesame, milk, eggs, and peanuts. His friends said at the inquest that he recognized sesame in his food after three bites, but the restaurant staff seemed not to care and did not even call an ambulance. When they returned to their apartment to use the EpiPen that the teen had left, it was already too late. He lost consciousness and later died in a hospital. READ NEXT: Nestle Announces Recall of More Than 27K Pounds of DiGiorno Pepperoni Pizza Over Potential Allergen The British Teen Made It Clear to Mexico Restaurant Staff That He Is Allergic to Sesame In a statement presented at South London Coroner's Court in Croydon, Dobson's friend Harriet Preston said Joe ordered a vegetarian burrito and said no sesame and used the Spanish word. When the food arrived, it was sent back as Joe believed it contained sesame. "Joe tried to tell the staff at the restaurant in basic English that if he eats sesame, he will die," Preston recalled. His friend recalled that when Joe's food returned, he held his torch light over, checking if there was any sesame. Dobson took a bite and noticed that it had sesame. So, he went to the Mexico restaurant staff but denied it, although he could feel it in his throat. Preston also stated that Dobson said he needed an ambulance, but the staff shrugged it off. Nobody in the restaurant treated the situation as an emergency, and no one knew at least basic first aid. According to coroner Mark Taylor, a staff told Dobson to drink some lemon and honey juice "to keep them quiet," The Mail reported. The coroner concluded that the British teen clearly did all he could reasonably do to inform the Mexico restaurant not to serve him food with sesame and even checked it himself. He also said that the sesame in the food from the restaurant had caused the fatal allergic reaction. Allergic Reaction Has Killed Many Another British teen died last month after having a severe allergic reaction to a pina colada on the Costa del Sol in Spain, The Irish Sun noted. The victim, Shiv Mistry, 18, thought he was drinking a cocktail made with typical coconut cream. However, the drink was made of dairy cream. He was allergic to dairy. Last week, inquiries also revealed how dairy-allergic mother-of-five Celia Marsh experienced anaphylaxis on the ground shortly after eating a vegan wrap from a restaurant in London. The bread was contaminated by milk but labeled "dairy free." Meanwhile, the Mexico restaurant that served burritos with sesame to a British teen has not been named. READ MORE: Queen Elizabeth II Cause of Death: Here's the Truth About the Monarch's Shocking Demise This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Celia Marsh: Family criticize yoghurt company for failing to flag allergen risk - From Evening Standard Laois Offaly TD and former Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan says the suffering and trauma of victims of the Troubles must not be forgotten. He made the comment in a tweet as he attended a Service to remember victims over the weekend in Co Fermanagh where families bereaved in the Republic of Ireland called for more state recognition of their loss. "Pleased to attend poignant service of Reflection & Remembrance to victims of The Troubles hosted by South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF) in Clones, Co Monaghan. "We must never forget the suffering & trauma of victims & survivors. Much work remains on the long road to peace & reconciliation," tweeted the Fine Gael TD. It was the 10th annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving on Sunday at St Tighernachs Church. A venue on the southern side of the border was selected this year, as the theme of the service was acknowledging hidden victims of the Troubles in the Republic of Ireland. Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys also attended, as did a senior officer from the Garda. DUP MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone Deborah Erskine was among attendees from Northern Ireland. Michael Donegan, whose Garda inspector father Samuel was murdered by the IRA at Butlers Bridge on the Cavan/Fermanagh border in 1972, said he and fellow victims felt they had been ignored by the authorities. The peace process has moved on and it is wonderful that it has, but I suppose I feel that people who have suffered because of these events many years ago, and in many case are still suffering, they deserve their suffering to be recognised, he said as he arrived at the church on Sunday. Mr Donegan criticised what he said was a failure by the authorities in the Republic of Ireland to offer therapy, counselling and other services that may help victims. Anthony OReilly, whose 15-year-old sister Geraldine was one of two teenagers killed by a loyalist bomb in Belturbet, Co Cavan, in 1972, also attended the service. My father and mother never got over it, my sisters and brothers as well, he said. It has had an awful impact on our lives. He added: Its been completely forgotten about, nobody wanted to talk about it. It makes me feel why was it forgotten about. Edward ONeills father died and he was left with lifelong injuries after the 1974 Dublin bombings. He said the service was a chance to remember forgotten victims of terrorism in Ireland. Mr ONeill was just four when he was caught up in the blast on Parnell Street, part of the Dublin/Monaghan series of bombs. No one has ever been convicted over the four no-warning bombs on May 17 1974 which killed 35 people, including two unborn babies. The attacks have been blamed on loyalist paramilitaries. Mr ONeill was in the city centre with his brother and his father, also called Edward. He said: I was four years old, walking out of the barber shop. My dad had me by his left hand and my brother by his right hand and he was swinging my brother. My brother pulled a button off his coat. He bent down to pick up the button and the bomb exploded. Mr ONeill is still receiving treatment for his injuries, including skull fractures, a broken jaw, fractured cheekbone, collapsed lung, first and second-degree burns and severe lacerations to both legs. He has undergone more than 60 operations. His mother Martha was heavily pregnant at the time and went on to lose her baby. Martha juniors name was added to a memorial for victims in Talbot Street earlier this year. Mr ONeill said: It is like groundhog day with me every single day because of the injuries. It just devastated everybody, my whole family. Victims of the Troubles in Ireland have been forgotten. This is why the service of remembrance is incredibly important, because we have been overlooked by successive governments. It has always been a case of hoping we will be quiet and go away. The Dublin and Monaghan bombings were the single biggest case of mass murder in the history of the Troubles and nobody has ever been charged or convicted for anything to do with it. All of us that are left are getting older. We are left to try and fight on for justice. SEFF director of services Kenny Donaldson said: On legacy, both the UK and Irish states need to step up their responses. They need to cease burying their heads in the sand and instead respond to the legitimate needs of victims and survivors around justice and accountability. Portarlington Social Services Meals on Wheels will celebrate its 50th Anniversary this week. Committee members and volunteers intend to mark the 50th anniversary with a gathering in Portarlington this Friday, October 7. The first Annual General Meeting(AGM) of Portarlington Social Services was held in the Vocational School Portarlington on Monday, September 18, 1972. In the first year of this service 900 meals were cooked by a wonderful voluntary group who worked with very basic equipment. Approximately 65 to 70 meals per day are still cooked three times a week on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday before being delivered by a very loyal group of over 70 people, who give of their time so generously. This means that over 9,000 meals are prepared and delivered each year. The meals are delivered to people in Portarlington and to surrounding areas by volunteers. The people who receive the meals are recommended for this service by their Doctor or the local Primary Care Nurses. This service could not continue without the valued support of the Community Employment workers, the HSE and volunteers. In May 2011, while having work done on the heating system, it was discovered that there was some subsidence on the building and renovation work was needed. An Engineer was employed to investigate this problem. A contractor was hired and work started in November 2012. The Committee also decided to extend their kitchen area, which was quite small, and they received a grant of 23,000 from Laois Partnership towards the build. They thanked the generous support over the years of the local community and fundraising efforts of local groups. The present Committee intends to continue the work of all the people who have gone before them. They have ended up with a great modernised building, since the original premises was built 47 years ago, and had no work done on it, except painting and minor upkeep. They thanked everyone who worked and supported this Centre over the years. The people of Portarlington are always wonderful to us, and we are so grateful, the committee said. An attempt by Laois councillors to prevent any more of what they called high rise apartment blocks in the county, has been also overturned by the Minister of State for Local Government and Planning Peter Burke this week. Laois county councillors had added a clause to the new development plan for Laois for the next five years, that "developments should be no more than three storey on greenfield sites". While Laois already has several four and five storey apartment buildings, such as Parkside and Stradbrook in Portlaoise, councillors voted in a new policy against any more, last January, into the draft development plan from 2022 to 2027. Cllr Willie Aird and Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley were amongst those against anything over three storeys high. "I know areas in Dublin with massive high rise flats and there are so many issues around them. We are dealing with people in two storeys and bungalows who are opposed to high rises looking in on them. You might get away with three or four of them but if we take our foot off the pedal we are looking at serious high rise developments, Cllr Dwane Stanley had said when they voted in the amendment. The ban is now rejected, as it contravenes national guidelines on compact growth of towns and efficient use of land. The Laois County Council CEO had also recommended that their policy be deleted. CEO John Mulholland had said that the policy was not consistent with national planning policy. He pointed to Urban Development and Building Height Guidelines which states that planners should not provide for blanket numerical limitations on building height and should instead support increased building height and density in locations with good public transport accessibility. Laois County Council has proposed building four and a five storey apartment blocks itself, on its 26 acre greenfield site at the Stradbally Road in Portlaoise. The blocks would face Stradbrook across the road, leaving much of the site for amenity usage. Last June councillors told the council to go back to the drawing board, rejecting the taller apartment designs. How does it not come into your head that people in Portlaoise don't want five storey apartment buildings?, Cllr Willie Aird said at that time. The Minister's draft direction will shortly go on public consulation to gather submissions. The council CEO must then send a report on any submissions that come in, before it goes back to the Minister for approval. A barrister told Naas District Court on Thursday, September 22, that her client refused to provide a sample of his blood to gardai as he has a fear of needles. Aisling Murphy made the comments to Judge Desmond Zaidan while defending her client Dylan Maughan, with an address listed as 7 St Killian's Park, Clondalkin in Dublin. The 21-year-old appeared via video link as he is currently serving a custodial sentence on other matters. It was heard that on June 15, 2019, gardai observed the defendant driving at 270kmph on the M7 near Blackhall in Kildare. When gardai initially stopped Mr Maughan, he failed to comply with a blood test. Ms Murphy said that her client was very apologetic and stressed that her client has a genuine fear of needles. 'CO-OPERATIVE' She added that he was co-operative with a follow-up breath test, which a garda in the courtroom backed up. Judge Zaidan imposed a mandatory four-year driving ban on Mr Maughan, and imposed two four-month sentences on the defendant for two counts of dangerous driving. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A teenage boy who pushed his bike at a teenage girl on a Dart station, causing her to fall off the platform and become briefly trapped beside a train, has been placed under probation supervision for 12 months. The 17-year-old boy, who can't be named because he is a juvenile, pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm to the girl in April 2021 at Howth Junction Dart station earlier this year. Finalising the boy's sentence today, Judge Martin Nolan said the boy had acted in a 'reckless manner'. However, Judge Nolan said the boy's behaviour, while 'reprehensible', had not been intentional. Judge Nolan said he did not consider a period of detention to be appropriate in this instance. He imposed a 12-month period of probation on the defendant, subject to strict conditions. Addressing the boy, Judge Nolan told him that it was his responsibility to follow the directions of the Probation Service, which would help him to become a 'good member of society.' At a previous hearing, Judge Nolan said that the incident had been a 'terrifying' experience for the girl, who was momentarily trapped between the train and the platform after being knocked over by the boy who had deliberately put his bike in her path. The girl was hospitalised in the wake of the incident and suffered concussion. She has no memory of the assault, but outlined a number of difficulties she has experienced as a result of the events that day in a victim impact. Judge Nolan said the boy deliberately turned his bike towards the girl, causing her to lose balance and fall between the platform and the train. "This defendant is responsible for her injuries," he said. Judge Nolan said he did not believe the boy intended for the girl to fall off the platform. "It was prankish behaviour, irresponsible behaviour," the judge said. "But it is highly unlikely he anticipated what occurred." Taking into account a number of mitigating factors, including the boy's guilty plea, his lack of prior convictions and his remorse, the judge said he would deal with the boy by way of community sanctions. A video of the incident at Howth Junction Dart station, which was leaked online, went on to be viewed 100 million times worldwide. In her victim impact statement, the girl said she felt 'let down' by Irish Rail. The investigating garda told the court it was believed the CCTV footage was leaked from within the company. "I'm not just an image on CCTV," the teenage girl said in her statement, which was read out in court by Garda Kevin O'Boyle: "I'm a human being standing here before you today." In relation to the boy's actions, the girl said she couldn't believe a human-being could do such a thing to another person and think it was OK to walk away. "None of these boys came forward," she said. Gda O'Boyle told Tessa White BL, prosecuting, that a group of around 10 boys, including the accused, were getting off the Dart on the day in question when the incident occurred. The court was shown video footage from the body cam of a security guard, who was ushering the boys off the train. The CCTV footage then showed the girl and a number of her friends running to get on the Dart, before three of the boys in the group accosted three of them. One boy swung his leg up over his bike, hitting one girl towards her face. Another boy jumped out in front of a girl, causing her to nearly trip. This accused then pushed his bike into the path of the victim, causing her to lose balance and roll off the platform. He was 16 years old at the time. The court was also shown footage of the group of boys fleeing the station. This boy was identified from the CCTV footage and arrested by gardai a month later. When interviewed, he made full admissions. He told gardai he looked back to make sure the girl was OK before he left the scene. He said he was 'in shock' afterwards and that he never meant for her to fall off the platform. Michael O'Higgins SC, defending, said the boy wished to apologise 'unreservedly' to the girl for his actions on the day, which counsel described as 'completely thoughtless.' "He is embarrassed and ashamed at his connection to these events," Mr O' Higgins said. Mr O'Higgins submitted that the incident stemmed out of '16-year-olds messing' and was not an act of gratuitous violence. He said the incident occurred during the Covid pandemic, when there was no school, no structure and no social outlets for teenagers. Defence counsel said the train driver saw the girl falling off the platform and the train was never in danger of moving off. Mr O'Higgins said the boy, who has no previous convictions, got 'the fright of his life'. "This has been a huge eye-opener for him," he said. A Senator based in Kildare has said that Minister Roderic O' Gorman will make a decision over proposed modular homes soon. The news follows after Lakeside Park/Highfield/Dara Park (LHD) Action Group member Tom McDonnell told Kildare FM Radio Station this morning that a follow-up protest in opposition to the proposed modular homes in Newbridge will be taking place this weekend. Senator Fiona O' Loughlin told the Leader that the final decision on the two modular homes projects in the LHD area in Newbridge and Beechgrove in Rathangan are 'paused', with the final decision to be made by Minister Roderic OGorman and his Department (The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth). The Fianna Fail politician, who is based in Newbridge and was born in Rathangan, said: "I have been liaising with Minister OGorman in relation to the controversial projects in Rathangan and Newbridge. "The Dept are considering the issues that have been raised by local residents in Kildare and that there will be further site evaluation and engagement before a final decision was made." Senator Fiona O' Loughlin, Fianna Fail She added: "I have no issue with the concept of modular housing, but I genuinely believe that they were totally in the wrong places." Senator O' Loughlin also said that the village of Rathangan had no places in its schools or GP practices, as well as a lack of public transport. In addition, she pointed out that the chosen site in the LHD area was a public green area. Senator O' Loughlin said: "Councillors have just signed off on the County Development plan. Neither site in Kildare had been zoned for housing, and the plan was for them be exempted from the need for planning permission to speed up the delivery of accommodation for Ukrainian refugees. "I think it's important that we follow the right process, with adequate and open consultation." "The Minister will shortly make his decision on the sites and I will be liaising to see that the concerns of residents are factored in," she concluded. Minister O' Gorman's Dept has said that the government has approved the development of up to 500 units of modular accommodation in different configurations over two phases. It was also announced that final configuration of sites will be informed by further site evaluation and engagement. Both phases of the project are expected to be delivered by the Spring of 2023. A group of men who gardai claim are members of an organised crime gang appeared in Naas District Court during a contested bail hearing on Thursday, September 22. The allegations relate to: William Connors, 46, with an address given as 44 Acorn Downs in Newbridge; James Connors, 23, with an address at 1 Drumcairn Park in Tallaght, Dublin; Larry Connors, 19, with the same address given as William Connors; Larry O Reilly, 22, with an address listed as The Bram Stoker Hotel in Dublin 3; and Michael Connors, 23, with an address given as 1 Kiltalown Hill in Tallaght. DETAILS The group appeared in court charged with a number of offences which allegedly took place on April 26 last at Rathmoylan in County Meath. These alleged offences included: the handling of stolen property (a black Audi jeep valued at 45,000), attempted burglary, and possession of articles with the intention that they be used in the course of, or in connection with a theft or burglary. The first two charges allegedly took place in Rathmoylan, but the documented location where the possession of articles charge was listed was the Lidl branch in Newhall, Naas. William Connors was also charged with being in possession of a cloned car registration plate. It was alleged that the group was chased by gardai from Rathmullen to Naas on April 26 last, where their vehicle (which was allegedly being driven by William Connors) eventually crashed into a roundabout. A garda with the National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau told the court that the men were accused of committing burglaries across a number of counties, such as Kildare, Cavan, Carlow and Louth, as well as in Northern Ireland. The garda in question also said that the group, who are all related through marriage, allegedly targeted elderly residents, as well as members of the Asian community, as the group were of the belief that members of the latter community may have more high-value jewellery or cash. It was also alleged that during the course of one burglary, the group obtained 250,000 worth of jewellery. BAIL OBJECTION The garda also said that gardai objected to bail against William Connors as they were of the belief that he would commit further offences, and may also dispose of alleged stolen property. Defending solicitor Tim Kennelly said that his client had attended court on every date, saying: "He has form... even when hes facing down the barrel of a gun, he turns up (to court). He added that his client 'categorically denies' the allegations made against him. When asked by Mr Kennelly if there were any conditions to bail that would alleviate gardais concerns, the garda insisted that they still objected to bail for Mr Connors. At one point, Judge Zaidan reprimanded another garda in the court for approaching the garda in the stand without first asking him if he could have his permission to briefly speak to his colleague. JUDGE'S DECISION After consideration, the judge said that while Mr Kennellys concerns had merit, he said that 'some degree of reality and common sense' must be applied to the case, pointing to the serious nature and volume of the allegations. Judge Zaidan denied bail for Mr Connors until his reappearance in court on September 28 for a book of evidence. He also remanded Larry O Reilly, Larry Connors, Michael Connors and James Connors in custody until September 28, which is when their respective books of evidence are due to be handed in. Judge Zaidan also reminded the court that all of the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Families bereaved in the Republic of Ireland during the Troubles have called for more state recognition of their loss as they attended a service for hidden victims of the conflict. Victims organisation South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF) hosted its 10th annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving on Sunday at St Tighernachs Church in Clones, Co Monaghan. It selected a venue on the southern side of the border this year, as the theme of the service was acknowledging hidden victims of the Troubles in the Republic of Ireland. Irelands Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys attended, as did former justice minister Charlie Flanagan, and a senior officer from the Garda. DUP MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone Deborah Erskine was among attendees from Northern Ireland. Michael Donegan, whose Garda inspector father Samuel was murdered by the IRA at Butlers Bridge on the Cavan/Fermanagh border in 1972, said he and fellow victims felt they had been ignored by the authorities. The peace process has moved on and it is wonderful that it has, but I suppose I feel that people who have suffered because of these events many years ago, and in many case are still suffering, they deserve their suffering to be recognised, he said as he arrived at the church on Sunday. Mr Donegan criticised what he said was a failure by the authorities in the Republic of Ireland to offer therapy, counselling and other services that may help victims. Anthony OReilly, whose 15-year-old sister Geraldine was one of two teenagers killed by a loyalist bomb in Belturbet, Co Cavan, in 1972, also attended the service. My father and mother never got over it, my sisters and brothers as well, he said. It has had an awful impact on our lives. He added: Its been completely forgotten about, nobody wanted to talk about it. It makes me feel why was it forgotten about. Edward ONeills father died and he was left with lifelong injuries after the 1974 Dublin bombings. He said the service was a chance to remember forgotten victims of terrorism in Ireland. Mr ONeill was just four when he was caught up in the blast on Parnell Street, part of the Dublin/Monaghan series of bombs. No one has ever been convicted over the four no-warning bombs on May 17 1974 which killed 35 people, including two unborn babies. The attacks have been blamed on loyalist paramilitaries. Mr ONeill was in the city centre with his brother and his father, also called Edward. He said: I was four years old, walking out of the barber shop. My dad had me by his left hand and my brother by his right hand and he was swinging my brother. My brother pulled a button off his coat. He bent down to pick up the button and the bomb exploded. Mr ONeill is still receiving treatment for his injuries, including skull fractures, a broken jaw, fractured cheekbone, collapsed lung, first and second-degree burns and severe lacerations to both legs. He has undergone more than 60 operations. His mother Martha was heavily pregnant at the time and went on to lose her baby. Martha juniors name was added to a memorial for victims in Talbot Street earlier this year. Mr ONeill said: It is like groundhog day with me every single day because of the injuries. It just devastated everybody, my whole family. Victims of the Troubles in Ireland have been forgotten. This is why the service of remembrance is incredibly important, because we have been overlooked by successive governments. It has always been a case of hoping we will be quiet and go away. The Dublin and Monaghan bombings were the single biggest case of mass murder in the history of the Troubles and nobody has ever been charged or convicted for anything to do with it. All of us that are left are getting older. We are left to try and fight on for justice. SEFF director of services Kenny Donaldson said: On legacy, both the UK and Irish states need to step up their responses. They need to cease burying their heads in the sand and instead respond to the legitimate needs of victims and survivors around justice and accountability. Nasas Juno spacecraft has made the closest approach to Jupiters icy moon Europa in more than 20 years. Juno on Thursday zipped within 222 miles of Europa, thought to have an ocean flowing beneath its thick frozen crust, raising the possibility of underwater life. Scientists hope to get lucky and observe possible water plumes shooting from the surface of Europa, close in size to Earths moon. We have to be at the right place at just the right time, but if we are so fortunate, its a home run for sure, Junos chief scientist, Scott Bolton of Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, said in a statement. John Bordi, deputy mission manager at Nasas Jet Propulsion Laboratory, expected the spacecraft to go screaming by pretty fast, with a relative velocity of almost 15 miles per second (23.6 kilometres per second). The latest observations will help Nasa plan for its Europa Clipper mission, due to launch in 2024. The European Space Agency also plans close encounters with its Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer, or Juice, lifting off next year. Nasas former Galileo spacecraft still holds the Europa flyby record, passing within 218 miles (351 kilometres) in 2000. Mohill native and Munster Technological University lecturer, Dr. Padraig McGarty will tell the story of incidents that happened on the Manorhamilton to Glenfarne railway-line during the Irish Civil War a century ago during a lecture, starting at 8.30pm in the Rainbow Ballroom, Glenfarne on Friday night, October 7. Regarding the Manorhamilton to Glenfarne railway-line story, the Glenfarne lecture organisers say renowned Lecturer Dr. Padraig McGarty will deliver a lecture titled 'In time of Civil War the conflict on the railways of North Leitrim in 1922-23.' This event should be of great interest as there were several incidents on the Sligo to Enniskillen railway line that occurred on the Manorhamilton to Glenfarne section of the railway line in 1923. This lecture is free of charge and takes place in the Rainbow, Glenfarne on Friday, October 7 at 8pm. Booking is recommended. Email: info@glenfarnecommunity.com-phone 071-9856832. Meanwhile Dr. Padraig McGarty has written a new book that details the events of the Irish Civil War in Leitrim, which will be available shortly for all who wish to purchase it. One of his previously published books covers events in Leitrim from 1912 to 1923, including the Irish War of Independence in Leitrim, entitled The Irish Revolution: Leitrim 1912-1923. It was published by Four Courts Press and interestingly on its cover is a photo of a local unit of the Irish Volunteers in uniform, pictured outside St. Clare's Hall in Manorhamilton, prior to their departure in 1914 to fight in World War I in France. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, in conjunction with the Food and Agriculture Office (FAO) in Rome, will this week host the 12th meeting of the Global Agenda on Sustainability Livestock (GASL). GASL is an independent agency which promotes the sustainability of the livestock sector by sharing good practices and policies across its member base globally. Some 43 countries will be represented in Dublin this week, making this truly an international event. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue will address the meeting on Tuesday (October 4) and he outlined his delight that Ireland was hosting this important meeting. It is a great honour for Ireland to host this important international meeting. It is a great opportunity for Ireland to showcase the sustainability credentials of the Irish livestock sector with delegates all over the world. The Food Vision 2030 process has sustainability at its heart, so this is a very opportune moment to engage with an international audience. The event which takes place from Monday to Friday will address several key themes throughout the week, including sessions focused on the youth and regional meetings which will focus on more specific local actions towards more sustainable livestock systems. In particular, the nutritional importance of animal sourced protein will be a key theme of the meeting. Minister for State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon TD will address the forum by outlining how research and innovation can underpin sustainability improvements in global livestock production. He stated: The role of research and innovation to the development and uptake of novel technologies and new practices for the livestock sector, as well as in providing the necessary evidence to inform policy in this area, are critical in achieving a climate-neutral food system by 2050. International collaboration and partnerships, such as the Global Research Alliance for Climate Smart Agriculture, are essential in order to make the urgent scientific breakthroughs necessary to address the many common challenges we face. Delegates will also have a chance to hear first-hand about some of the innovations happening on Irish farms by visiting Teagasc Grange, a dairy farm in Co. Meath, and the Lands at Dowth, owned by Devenish Nutrition Minister McConalogue concluded: I thank all who have made this event possible, including my own agencies Teagasc and Bord Bia, and also Devenish Nutrition, who have worked closely with the Department and the FAO over recent weeks. I wish delegates a fantastic week and I look forward to meeting them tomorrow. LETTER FROM ATHENS Demonstration against economic austerity measures, in Athens, Greece, April 2013. LOUISA GOULIAMAKI / AFP In Greece, the acquittal on appeal of former officials of the German company Siemens, who were prosecuted in one of the biggest corruption cases, has caused a stir. The case dates back to the late 1990s, when the country's telephone network was being modernized. Inflated contracts were signed between Siemens and the public electricity company, and bribes were distributed to managers of the German company and also to Greek politicians. According to officials from Siemens' Greek subsidiary, 130 million Deutschmarks was paid out. In 2011, in the midst of the economic crisis, a parliamentary commission of inquiry estimated that the scandal had cost the country an estimated 2 billion. On Monday, September 26, after 16 years of proceedings and numerous postponements, the Athens Court of Appeal acquitted 20 people who had initially been sentenced to 15 years in prison for corruption in 2019. Even the former head of the Greek subsidiary of Siemens, Michalis Christophorakos who had fled to Germany at the beginning of the investigation did not receive any sentence. The reason? The statute of limitations has expired. The resulting uproar from the media was immediate. The left-wing weekly Documento called the acquittal a "provocation," saying that Greeks had endured many austerity measures during the crisis due in part to all the corruption cases that had been costly to the Greek state. The center-right newspaper Kathimerini highlighted "the bitter taste" left by the case and "the inability of the political and judicial system to complete a 16-year investigation." The center-right daily Ta Nea noted that "a case that has occupied public opinion and shaken the Greek political scene is being hastily closed and swept under the 'rug of the statute of limitations.'" Read more Subscribers only Greece: Spying scandal shakes Mitsotakis' government 'Feeling of injustice is everywhere' We are interested in your experience using the site. Send feedback Surprised by this acquittal, the prosecutor of Greece's Supreme Court, Isidoros Dogiakos, ordered a preliminary investigation to determine the reasons for the slowness of the procedure that led to the lapse. On News247, columnist Yannis Albanis said that "in Greece, the elite thinks that citizens are so resigned or so cynical (or both) that they will not react." However, on social media, the anger of many Greeks instantly exploded: "Is this justice? A washing machine [that] whitewashes Christophorakos and the other accused!" said one Twitter user. "We live in a country where you go to jail for nothing and where, when you steal from the state, you are praised," added another. You have 53.55% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. The former conservative Prime Minister Boiko Borissov, in Sofia, October 2, 2022. NIKOLAY DOYCHINOV / AFP The Bulgarian people were called to the polls on Sunday, October 2, for new early elections after the collapse of pro-European centrist Kiril Petkov's short-lived government in July. Bulgarian citizens have once again elected a fragmented and polarized parliament that is unlikely to allow the formation of a majority, prolonging the political crisis that has shaken this Balkan country since April 2021. This crisis is the result of the desire to return to power of conservative ex-Prime Minister Boiko Borissov, 63, who led Bulgaria almost continuously between 2009 and 2021, amid multiplying corruption scandals. His party, GERB (Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria), has shown remarkable stability and came out on top in Sunday's election with 25.1% of the vote, according to projections by the Institut Alpha (Alpha Institute). But this former policeman, who used to sleep with a gun on his bedside table, has so far been unable to find political forces ready to support him to form a majority because of the deep rejection he arouses among the rest of the Bulgarians. In his place, Kiril Petkov, a 42-year-old Harvard-educated former entrepreneur, made a surprise breakthrough in the third early legislative elections in November 2021 by promising to fight corruption. But his government, made up of four parties with different geopolitical orientations, quickly collapsed after divisions over relations with Russia appeared, in a country where a large part of public opinion remains Russian-oriented. On Sunday, it placed second with 18.9% of the vote, down six points from the previous legislative elections. Read more Poll puts Bulgaria ex-prime minister Borisov back on top but short of allies Profiles too sour We are interested in your experience using the site. Send feedback Despite this lower vote tally, he again ruled out forming a coalition with Mr. Borissov. "We have promised that we will not form a coalition with GERB and we will keep that promise," Mr. Petkov said on Sunday evening. Unlike back in November 2021, however, it is unlikely that Mr. Petkov will be unable to form an alternative government. His outgoing allies in the Socialist Party and the center-right Democratic Party Bulgaria are expected to win only 44 seats, far short of the required 121-seat majority for the outgoing coalition. There are several other small parties that could theoretically complete a majority, but they all have too negative a profile. The Movement for Rights and Freedoms, which represents the Turkish minority, made a surprise breakthrough with 14.8% of the vote. But its image is still associated with the many corruption cases of recent years, not to mention the fact that it included in its ranks the oligarch Delyan Peevski, who was sanctioned in 2021 by the United States "for his important role in corruption in Bulgaria." You have 18.63% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. NHLANGANO A police officer has been arrested and charged after allegedly releasing a convict who had not paid a fine. The police officer was charged for allegedly defrauding the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) or Eswatini Government a sum of E15 000. Wandile Mlilo of Zombodze Emuva, under Chief Masenjana, is based at Hluthi Police Station and he appeared at the Shiselweni Magistrates Court last Friday. During his appearance, he was facing a charge of fraud. According to his charge sheet, he was charged for (allegedly) contravening Section 24 (1) as read with Section 35 (1) of the Prevention of Corruption Act 3/2006. Fine It was stated that upon or about July 12, 2022, at Hluthi Police Station in the Shiselweni Region, the said person (allegedly) misrepresented to the REPS or Eswatini Government that Bhekithemba Matse a convict was released after having paid the fine of E15 000 at the Nhlangano Revenue offices, whereas it was not the case. It was stated that Mlilo (allegedly) made the aforesaid misrepresentation knowing very well that the convict (Matse) had not paid the fine, therefore, was not entitled to be released from custody. Diverted In the charge sheet, it was stated that the accused person (allegedly) unlawfully diverted, as a result of his above mentioned fraudulent conduct, the said E15 000 belonging to the government, thereby deprived the public revenue of money to which the government was entitled. Mlilo was on Friday released on E2 500 bail and he would return to court on October 17, 2022 for the setting of the trial date. New black and white funeral banners have appeared at the entrances to Armenian villages near the border with Azerbaijan. In Lichk, in the Martouni region, one was erected to honor the memory of 20-year-old Arthur Markarian. The young man was one of the 204 Armenian soldiers killed in the attacks conducted by Baku on Armenian territory on September 13 and 14. Arthur had been fulfilling his military service for a year when a deluge of artillery, rocket launchers and drones hit his outpost near the border with Azerbaijan, but not in Nagorno Karabakh, the separatist enclave at the heart of the last war between the two countries in the fall of 2020. For two days, more than 30 Armenian towns and villages, including Djermouk, Goris, Kapan, Sotk and Vardenis, were attacked. It's an assault on a scale unheard of since the end of the war. Three civilians were also killed, 7,600 people were displaced, and 20 soldiers were captured. Yerevan denounced Baku's "aggression", who claimed to have retaliated to "provocations" and counted more than 70 dead among its ranks. The heads of diplomacy from both countries met in Geneva on Sunday, October 2, to discuss peace talks, without any progress. Markar Markarian looks at old photographs of Artur, his nephew, who was killed at the border. In the village of Litchk, Armenia, September 28, 2022. KAREN MIRZOYAN FOR "LE MONDE" Gohar and Gvido Markarian hold a photo of their son Arthur. In the village of Litchk, Armenia, September 28, 2022. KAREN MIRZOYAN FOR "LE MONDE" Read more Subscribers only Conflict returns to Armenia-Azerbaijan border Since the attacks, Arthur's family and neighbors have been gathering daily around the altar in the living room in memory of the young soldier whose portrait hangs above a large Armenian flag near the dinner table. His father, Gevidan Markarian, is infuriated by the government and the army. "There is no authority or army here," he said. "We are all alone, surrounded by our enemies." Sitting on a bench, the women nodded in silence. Growing anti-Russian sentiment Their sense of abandonment has grown since Russia, Armenia's traditional ally, refused to provide the country with military aid within the framework of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), an alliance dominated by Moscow. Russia has been preoccupied with the war in Ukraine, where it is experiencing a series of military setbacks. It has sent a simple observation mission and this lack of interest feeds growing anti-Russian sentiment. The population is already resentful of Moscow's inaction during the war in Nagorno-Karabakh, even though, technically, the military alliance that links the two countries does not concern the separatist enclave. "Russia is supposed to be our ally and protect us, but in reality, we see nothing! Now, we don't expect anything from them," said the uncle of the deceased, Markar Markarian. We are interested in your experience using the site. Send feedback Read more Subscribers only In the former Soviet empire, renewed conflicts are exposing Russia's powerlessness The theme tune of The Godfather echoed regularly around the table. Each time, the uncle pulled out his phone, turned off the ringer, and resumed the conversation. The family successively mentioned the weakness of the army, worn out since the end of the war in 2020, the exceptional agreement reached in July between the European Union and Baku on gas deliveries, to their great dismay, and the temptation to leave the village in the face of the advance of the Azerbaijanis. You have 58.26% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. Supporters of Luiz Inacio "Lula" da Silva react to the partial results, after the close of the general election polls, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022. MATIAS DELACROIX / AP The crowd fell silent. On the Cinelandia, an iconic square in the center of Rio de Janeiro, the glances exchanged were bleak and heavy. Several hundred supporters dressed in red had turned up to celebrate the return of the left to power in Brazil. The beers had been prepared, chilled as they should be, the smiles and the songs of victory were ready too. But the voters decided otherwise. At the end of the first round of the presidential election on Sunday, October 2, the leftist ex-president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva finished in the lead with 48.43 % of the vote against 43.2 % for the outgoing far-right head of state, who achieved a score much higher than that predicted by the polling institutes. A mere 5 points, or 6 million votes only (out of a total of 123 million votes), separate the two men, who will meet again for an uncertain second round on October 30. For the left, however, everything had started well. On the eve of the election, the latest polls still gave Lula a 15point lead and a good chance of winning outright in the first round. The most popular president in the history of Brazil, Lula thought he would only make mincemeat of his successor, discredited by his catastrophic management of the economy, Covid19 and the environment. At the head of a broad coalition of nine political parties, the leader of the Workers' Party (PT) appeared to have every reason to be confident. Read more Subscribers only Brazil chooses between Bolsonaro and Lula in a tense vote On the morning of October 2, Lula went with his new wife, Rosangela, to vote with a smile in Sao Bernardo do Campo, a working-class suburb of Sao Paulo where he started his work as a union leader. "This day is incredibly important for me," says the former metal worker, recalling that four years ago, imprisoned for corruption, he could not run for president. Lula then seized his receipt for voting and brought it to his lips. A kiss of democracy, it was as if Lula was's sealing the announcement of an inevitable victory. We are interested in your experience using the site. Send feedback A far cry from the outpouring of victory in 2018 450 kilometers to the east, in Rio de Janeiro, Jair Bolsonaro presented a very different picture. Looking grumpy, under a grey and rainy sky, the outgoing president went to his polling station in Vila Militar, a Carioca neighborhood dotted with army barracks, at around 9 am. No family members accompanied him. The head of state was surrounded only by his bodyguards with dark sunglasses and a handful of allies. Among them was the deputy Daniel Silveira, a former policeman with a shaved head and the physique of a wrestler, sentenced to eight years in prison for his attacks against democracy, whom Bolsonaro ended up pardoning. You have 72.42% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. For a long time now, the evil that has been eating away at the French medical network and compromising equal access to care has been known and its causes have been identified. "Medical deserts," long limited to rural areas, can now be found in suburban areas and even medium-sized cities. In a country with a universal social security system, 6 million inhabitants of which 600,000 have long-term illnesses do not have a regular doctor and there is pronounced geographical inequality. In the least-equipped areas, it is not uncommon to have to wait more than three weeks to see a general practitioner, and more than a third of residents says they have given up on trying to access healthcare because of cost, waiting time or accessibility. The situation is linked to both a declining number of doctors as well as the qualified professionals that there are being poorly spread out across France, due in part to insufficient recruitment in the years 1970-2000 a policy adopted at the time under pressure from independent doctors and health system managers. The crisis comes at the very moment when health needs are on the rise. The resulting boom in geographical inequality is unacceptable and fuels not only the anger of those who are left on the margins but also provides fodder for demagogic political rhetoric. There is therefore an urgent need to act, and now is the time: In addition to parliament looking over the social security financing bill this autumn, the political calendar includes the renegotiation of the medical agreement that oversees relations between private practitioners and the health insurance system, and, starting on October 3, the "major conference on health," which aims to overhaul the system. Never before has it been so obvious to prioritize the issue of equal access to care, which was already highlighted by the Covid-19 pandemic and brought up again several times by a number of legislative proposals from alarmed local elected officials. Disparities between territories The challenge, which most European countries are facing, is a major one: It is a question of adapting medical services a determining factor until now to the multiform needs that are now the focus of attention. Immediate measures must be adopted or amplified in order to support doctors: the delegation of certain tasks to nurses and medical assistants, vaccination to pharmacists, the prescription of contraceptives to midwives and "advanced consultations" where doctors go to remote patients. Rather than imposing on doctors the obligation to live in certain areas which would be of dubious effectiveness because of the difficulty in defining the different areas and the increased risk of doctors outsourcing their own jobs it would be better, as the Minister of Health Francois Braun has said, to favor solutions that have been devised with local officials. But the extent of disparities between territories, which goes beyond the health sector, makes it essential to have a mechanism that includes a form of obligation, although not necessarily an individual one for example a "territorial responsibility," collectively assured by doctors on certain days. We are interested in your experience using the site. Send feedback The minister is facing some opposition with young doctors, to whom he wants to add an extra year of study in a medical desert. This underlines the need for all generations of doctors to share the burden. Let us not forget that our health system is largely liberal but funded by public money. Fixing it will need contributions and effort from everyone and will require political courage. Read more Subscribers only French hospitals: 'What if we had to do it again?' Six past health ministers reflect on 20 years of policy Le Monde Translation of an original article published in French on lemonde.fr; the publisher may only be liable for the French version. Is Brazil still part of the international diplomatic map? There is reason to doubt it. In 2022, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro received only seven of his counterparts, including the Portuguese president, even though this year the country is celebrating the bicentennial of its independence. This just goes to show that passage through Brasilia, though the world's 13th biggest economy, has become toxic for foreign leaders regardless of political tendencies. Today, Mr. Bolsonaro is a president ostracized by his peers. It is hard to imagine that just 10 years ago, Brazil organized the Rio+20 summit, bringing together the world's leaders around climate change and establishing the centrality of Brazilian diplomacy on this issue that has become essential in international affairs. The former military man has made the international scene a focal point of his far-right politics. At first, it was to root out the "Marxist and globalist ideology" of the Itamaraty, Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, when it is in fact one of the best diplomatic corps in the world. But in Mr. Bolsonaro's mind, it was about going further: Much like his mentor Donald Trump, the far-right leader wanted to participate in the construction of an "ultraconservative world" comprising the likes of Matteo Salvini to Viktor Orban, based on virulent criticism of China's place in the international arena, unyielding support for Israeli policies, contempt for Europe and international organizations and the fight against the Venezuelan, Cuban and Nicaraguan regimes. There's also the desire to criminalize migrants and refugees, fierce opposition to regulating weapons and the refusal to decriminalize drugs. Political polarization We are interested in your experience using the site. Send feedback Unfortunately, reality has set in for the Brazilian president. In addition to Mr. Trump's defeat in 2020 which has considerably isolated him on the international scene some of his supporters, particularly in agribusiness circles, have rebelled against his hostile stance toward China, Brazil's main trading partner. Mr. Bolsonaro eventually decided to dismiss his foreign minister, as part of a larger move to recompose his parliamentary majority. In this way, he avoided impeachment, even as the Covid-19 pandemic took its toll on the population. Of course, anti-Chinese and anti-communist diatribes remain a staple of the president's discourse. Nevertheless, when it comes to prohibiting the participation of the Chinese company Huawei in the installation of the 5G network, Brasilia is stalling, much to Washington's displeasure. You have 56.67% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. THREE LIMERICK schools have been awarded funding to help them retrofit their buildings to make them more energy efficient. Norma Foley TD, Minister for Education and Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications have launched the 2023/2024 Schools Energy Retrofit Pathfinder Programme. The programme will evaluate and demonstrate the approach to energy retrofit and carbon reduction in the schools sector, testing energy efficiency solutions and renewable heat technologies. The Limerick schools that have been chosen to be a part of the programme are: Catherine McCauley Special School, Hazelwood College and Scoil Neassain Primary School. This government-funded energy retrofit pathfinder programme will target energy use and CO2 emission reduction by 51%, testing deep retrofit and low carbon heating solutions. Design teams are being appointed to each school to feasibility stage to investigate retrofit and de-carbonisation options, and works will roll out from summer 2023 subject to the outcome of the feasibility stage. The schools for 2023 present a variety of challenges, including building age, archetype and retrofit requirements. The works typically involves upgrades to the building fabric including wall and roof insulation, doors and windows, air tightness improvements, LED lighting and heating upgrades as well as renewable technologies. The pathfinder programme has retrofitted 41 schools across Ireland to date with work on an additional 15 schools currently at various stages of progress. Each school undergoes a comprehensive assessment to ensure that the measures are suitable for that school and will deliver value to both the school and learnings for the national retrofit programme. LIBRARY members across Limerick are now able to borrow home energy savings kits, as well as books, to help householders better understand their energy use and reduce their bills. Located in six libraries (city library at Michael Street along with Dooradoyle, Abbeyfeale, Kilmallock, Watch House Cross, Moyross and Newcastle West), the kit has five easy-to-use tools and six practical exercises. It allows you to get a better understanding of the energy usage in your home, problem areas that may need attention and ways to improve energy efficiency. Key areas of energy use in the home include: space heating, hot water and electricity consumption. The kits can identify common issues such as lack of insulation, poor ventilation and the appliances that might be driving up electricity bills. The move has been welcomed by Mayor Francis Foley, Limerick librarian Damien Brady and Sinead Mc Donnell, environment awareness officer with the council. Contact 061 556526 for more. Mayor Foley said: The Home Energy Savings Kits are easy to use and will help many homeowners take that initial step on their sustainable energy journey. The kits should also help people reduce their energy consumption and costs as we are looking into a period of sustained high energy costs. Limerick Librarian Damien Brady added: This project promotes energy awareness and builds on core library principles of sharing community resources to engage, educate and enrich citizens. We are delighted to support energy awareness through the public roll-out of the Home Energy Saving Kits within a number of our Libraries in Limerick. Sinead Mc Donnell, Environment Awareness Officer with the local authority added: The kits are a great way to engage with Limerick Citizens and Limericks Library network is the perfect home for them. I have no doubt that Limerick Tidy Towns groups will be delighted to promote use of the kits to their communities. NIALL O'CALLAGHAN, CEO of the Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership has achieved a major business honour. Mr OCallaghan has been named AIBF Public-Private Sector Executive of the year 2022 after leading the LEDP through a significant period of change over the past two years. Not least navigating the charity successfully through the pandemic, but also the launch of a new strategy 20 Outcomes by 2026 in which LEDP has made an asserted commitment to continuing to make a meaningful impact, with the community at the heart of everything it does. LEDP is a public-private partnership which uses revenue from its commercial property business to fund community projects of impact across Limerick. Prior to his tenure at LEDP, Niall cut his teeth with consumer goods giant, Unilever followed by a hugely successful period of supporting foreign direct investment with IDA Ireland. More recently, he transformed the financial performance of the Shannon Heritage portfolio of tourist attractions, bringing profitability to the semi-state company for the first time. Business All-Star Accreditation is an independently verified standard mark for indigenous businesses, based on rigorous selection criteria. The Accreditation is overseen by the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF), whose adjudication panel is chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics. Reacting to the announcement, Niall O'Callaghan said: "This is a huge personal honour for me to be named AIBF Public Private Sector Executive of the year 2022. "To be chosen by the highly experienced adjudication panel who engage with businesses all over Ireland on a weekly basis is very special and its an honour to join the illustrious businesswomen and men already accredited with such a distinction". Niall is a graduate of UL, with a masters in marketing from UCC, and is the immediate past chairman of AVEA the National Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions. He has been recognised with Business All-Star Accreditation for his considerable contribution to trade and commerce in the Mid-West region. THREE Limerick hostelries are hoping to be able to toast victory next month after being nominated in the 2022 Irish Pub Awards. Collins Bar in Dooradoyle, Mother Macs at High Street in the city centre and live music venue Dolans at Dock Road, also in the urban area, have all received category nominations at the awards, the final of which takes place. Now in their fourth year, the Irish Pub Awards, presented by the Licenced Vintners Association (LVA) and the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI), are acknowledged as the definitive industry standard and have gained recognition throughout the trade as the most credible and comprehensive assessment of the best in pubs. The three Limerick pubs have all won through a south-western regional final. Collins Bar and Restaurant owned and run by former mayor James Collins is in the running for the title of best food pub. Among the nominations for the best music pub is Dolans, while the innovative pub of the year title could go to Mother Macs. VFI president Paul Moynihan said: The Irish Pub Awards is firmly established as the pre-eminent awards in our sector. The awards have helped raise the national profile of our fantastic pubs across the entire country. The awards showcase the best of the best and Im delighted that so many great venues are getting the recognition they deserve. We all know our pubs are a unique part of Irish culture and remain the best place for locals and tourists alike to come together. The final awards will be announced at a special ceremony to take place in Dublin on Wednesday, November 16, next. Former Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall is being assessed for the Witness Protection Program after giving a statement to gardai that implicates another or others in the murder of David Byrne, who was shot dead at the Regency Hotel in 2016 as part of the Hutch/Kinahan gang feud. Dowdall, who last week pleaded guilty to facilitating Mr Byrne's murder by making a hotel room available to be used by the Hutch gang ahead of the murder, will never again live in Ireland, a garda told the three-judge Special Criminal Court this morning. Detective Sergeant Patrick O'Toole agreed with Mr Dowdall's barrister Michael O'Higgins SC that the decision to give a statement to gardai has placed a "very heavy burden" on Dowdall and his family. He further agreed that while Dowdall has known the Hutch family since he was a teenager and occasionally borrowed money from them, he is not a member of any criminal organisation. The detective added that Dowdall did not benefit from the activities of the Hutch crime gang. Dowdall was in court for a sentencing hearing this morning (MON) alongside his father Patrick Dowdall, who also pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder of David Byrne. Both men were brought into court by two plain clothes gardai through the jury entrance rather than the cells or public entrance. Det Sgt O'Toole said that the Dowdall family is now in protective garda custody, which has been a "significant shock". A risk assessment carried out by gardai suggested a "severe" risk to Dowdall and members of his family. "It's like taking your life and standing it on its head," said Mr O'Higgins. Det Sgt O'Toole confirmed that following his arrest in relation to the Byrne murder, Dowdall said he wanted to speak to someone about the Witness Protection Program and indicated he was willing to make a statement as to his knowledge of what happened at the Regency. He gave what Det Sgt O'Toole described as a "sincere and genuine" statement to gardai and has made himself available as a witness in the upcoming trial of Gerard 'The Monk' Hutch, who is charged with Mr Byrne's murder. That trial is due to start today. In his statement, Dowdall has implicated another person or persons, the detective confirmed, adding that the information is of benefit to the prosecution. The court also heard details of the offence committed by Dowdall and his father Patrick Dowdall. Det Sgt O'Toole told prosecution counsel Sean Gillane SC that room 2104 in the Regency Hotel was booked using Patrick Dowdall's credit card on February 4, 2016, one day before Mr Byrne's murder. When questioned by gardai Patrick Dowdall said that he had cancelled the room and not used it but CCTV from the hotel showed him arriving on the 4th and receiving two key cards from reception. He then went to the room and used a key card to enter. He left a few minutes later. He then went with Jonathan Dowdall and gave the key cards to a man who was a known member of the Hutch criminal organisation. The sentencing hearing is continuing this morning. Background Jonathan Dowdall - a married father of four with an address at Navan Road, Cabra, Dublin 7 - was due to stand trial today for Mr Byrne's murder alongside Gerard 'The Monk' Hutch (59) but pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of facilitating the shooting at the Special Criminal Court last Wednesday. Mr Hutch, last of The Paddocks, Clontarf, is due to go on trial later today charged with murdering Kinahan gang member David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in Whitehall, Dublin on February 5, 2016. Last week, Jonathan Dowdall (44) and his father Patrick Dowdall (65), also of Navan Road, Cabra, Dublin 7, both admitted facilitating the murder of Mr Byrne as part of the Hutch-Kinahan feud. Both men pleaded guilty to participating in or contributing to activity intending to or being reckless as to whether such participation or contribution could facilitate the commission of a serious offence by a criminal organisation or any of its members, to wit the murder of David Byrne, by making a room available at the Regency Hotel, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 for that criminal organisation or its members, within the State on February 4, 2016. Jonathan Dowdall, who served as an elected Sinn Fein councillor in the north inner city ward in May 2014 and resigned less than one year later, had been charged in April 2021 at the non-jury court with the murder of Mr Byrne (34), from Crumlin, at the Regency Hotel in Whitehall, north Dublin. That charge is now expected to be withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Mr Byrne was shot dead at the hotel in Swords, Co Dublin, on February 5 2016 after five men, three disguised as armed gardai, stormed the building. Seven Lincoln University of Missouri pre-law students recently attended the National HBCU Pre-Law Summit in Washington, D.C. A study program organized by the Osgood Center for International Studies, the summit is the nations only major national pre-law event created especially for HBCU students and alumni interested in law school and becoming lawyers. The Lincoln University of Missouri Honors Program and the Lincoln University Political Science Program combined efforts to take the students to Washington for the event in September. The Honors Program provided funding and planning, and the Political Science Program planning of the international studies component and provided chaperones for the trip. The D.C. trip for the Lincoln students included a two-day pre-law summit at the HBCU University of D.C. campus, with a keynote presentation by American Bar Association President Deborah Enix Ross, tours of four D.C.-based law schools, a two-day seminar on careers in international relations and DC-based careers at the Osgood Center for International Studies, an interpretive tour of Mt. Zion historically Black cemetery in Georgetown, and a visit to the National African American Museum. Participating students and faculty included Nia Walker, Lyniya Pruitt, Emily Botts, Jada Corbin, Alex Mugisha, Will Donaldson, Clareen Gayle, LU Director of Honors Program and Professor of Political Science Dr. Amy Gossett, and LU Associate Professor of Political Science Dr. Brian Norris. All students were either honors program members, political science majors, or legal studies minors. View photos from the trip. SITEKI Two arson attacks in one night. This is what happened in the Lubombo Region on Thursday night, as property belonging to Ntfutfwakazi Umphakatsi, under Maja II, was torched. Also, property belonging to a police officer based at Lubulini was also reduced to ashes. In both incidents, the arsonists remain unknown. At the umphakatsi, three houses and a car worth E30 000 were set alight while at the law enforcers home, his house was torched. According to Ntfutfwakazi Chiefdom Bucopho Bonginkosi Mabaso, restructuring homes raised the alarm after seeing a thick cloud of smoke and flames engulfing houses at the chiefdom. Mabaso said a gogo centre was petrol-bombed and only a table and a record book were burnt, as they rarely kept anything inside. He said a hut within the umphakatsi was also burnt. The bucopho said the arsonists further went to petrol-bomb a three-bedroom house, where most of the furniture in the living room was extensively damaged. Children He said there was a woman and two children, aged five and nine, who were inside the house when the arsonists attacked. He further mentioned that a Toyota Corolla sedan valued at E30 000 was also not sparred, as it was set alight, as well as a 5 000-litre water tank. The bucopho also mentioned that the unknown arsonists further went on to petrol-bomb a house belonging to a police officer based at the Lubulini Police Station and damages worth E1 450 were incurred. He said the police from the Lubulini Police Station acted promptly and attended to both incidents. We are still shocked as a community, because it was not only the umphakatsi that was targeted, but a police officers homestead as well. The police told us that they will investigate the incidents and give us feedback, he said. The law enforcer confirmed the matter in an interview. It is true that they torched my house and threw a flammable substance through a window. Only the window and the curtain were damaged as we were able to put out the flames on time, he said. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed that police were investigating the burning of the chiefdom and that of the police officers house. We had both matters reported to the police and investigations are ongoing, she said. Worth mentioning is that in the past week, Ngcina Umphakatsi was set on fire by unknown people amidst the ongoing chieftaincy dispute. Meanwhile, just two months ago, a hut was set alight by unknown people at Mpolonjeni Umphakatsi on the outskirt of Siteki. There was an attempt to burn another hut but a passerby disturbed the arsonists hence it was spared. Vodafone Group PLC said Monday that it is in discussions with CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. in relation to a possible combination of Vodafone and Three in the U.K. Indian Air Force fighter jets were scrambled to intercept an aircraft with its origin in Iran and headed to China, which was moving towards New Delhi airspace, according to the news agency ANI. Sources, as quoted by ANI, said that inputs were received at 9.20 am by Delhi Police about a bomb threat on board a Mahan Air flight headed to Guangzhou in China from Tehran in Iran. The threat triggered an alert and permission was not granted for the place to land in the national capital. The plane was instructed by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to divert to Jaipur, as per ANI reports. Reportedly, the pilot refused to divert the plane following which Indian Air Force jets were scrambled to intercept and escort the plane. "The aircraft was headed to China as its final destination and had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane," sources told ANI. According to Filghtradar24 data, the place was reduced altitude over the Delhi-Jaipur airspace for a brief period before it was seen making its way out of the Indian airspace. Mahan Air requested for immediate landing at Delhi airport but Delhi ATC directed it to head to Jaipur Airport. The pilots of the Iranian carrier did not do so and eventually left Indian airspace, ATC sources told ANI. Indian Air Force (IAF) confirmed to ANI that the China-bound Mahan Air flight which had a bomb threat is now out of Indian airspace. All actions were taken by IAF as per laid down procedure, jointly with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The aircraft was under close radar surveillance by the Air Force throughout the Indian airspace," IAF told ANI. It added, Aircraft was offered option to land at Jaipur and then, at Chandigarh. But pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of them. After a while intimation was received from Tehran to disregard bomb scare. Aircraft continued on its journey towards final destination." (With ANI inputs) The defence minister of Maldives thanked India for its unwavering support and assistance to enhance capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Force and the defence sector, as India's foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra met Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi and discussed ways to boost the defence cooperation between India and Maldives. Kwatra is on a three day visit to Maldives and he met the Defence Minister on the last day of his visit. Their discussions focused on further boosting Maldives India defence cooperation," the Maldives' Defence Ministry tweeted. Foreign Secretary of H.E. Vinay Kwatra met with Hon. Min.@MariyaDidi. Discussions focused on further boosting defence cooperation. Min thanked #India for the unwavering support & assistance to enhance capabilities of @MNDF_Official and the defence sector.@HCIMaldives pic.twitter.com/91TnPH9xOr Ministry of Defence (@MoDmv) October 3, 2022 Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, handed over vehicles to Maldives National Defence Force which they acquired under India's grant aid. The "minister thanked the Govt & people of India for the unconditional, generous support to their neighbor the Maldives at all times," the ministry said in another tweet. Kwatra also met Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and discussed bilateral relations between both nations and assured him of full commitment to the growth of the partnership between both countries. President Solih recently visited India in August and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi where both leaders made several announcements and signed various MOUs. India also extended a $100 million line of credit to the Maldives to finance infrastructure projects. They also discussed the construction of 4,000 social housing units in Hulhumale, which is being funded by a USD 227 million buyer's credit finance from Exim Bank of India. Both leaders also reviewed the Greater Male Connectivity Project which entails the construction of a 6.74-kilometer-long bridge and causeway link connecting Male, the Maldives' capital, with the neighboring islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi. India funded this project with a $100 million grant and a $400 million line of credit. Kwatra also met his counterpart Ahmed Latheef on Sunday and they reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and witnessed the exchange of the $100 million Line of Credit agreement. "Both sides positively assessed the robust growth in our bilateral ties and discussed ways to further build on the momentum," the MEA spokesman said. With Inputs from PTI. Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut on Sunday said that she has no plans to enter into politics professionally, rather remains focused on her film career. However, the actor said that she has a keen interest in politics, according to the news agency PTI. She visited the National Gallery of Modern Art where more than 1,200 items gifted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi are on display as part of an e-auction that began on September 17. The actor placed bids for the model of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. "I don't have any plans to enter politics. I am busy with the shooting of my upcoming films. I do have an interest in politics but as an artist only. I am a successful artist as I started my career at the age of 16 years. I reached the present stage after a lot of struggle," Ranaut told PTI. She also asserted that her keen interest in politics will reflect in her work. "Now, I don't have the capacity to start over a new career. I will always make good films keeping in mind my interest in politics," she added. The Bollywood star also said that she is patriotic and will always promote those who are doing good work for the country. "I'm patriotic... I'm so busy with my work and I will always support those people who are doing good for the country, irrespective of the party they belong to," she told PTI. Speaking about her upcoming directorial "Emergency" in which Ranaut also essays the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, she acknowledged that the movie's subject is controversial in nature and it was only because of creative freedom fostered by the "current government" that she could tackle the subject. "It is a controversial topic and I think nobody to date had the liberty to openly tell this story. It is possible now because the current government provides certain protection and platform to actors... Like Vivek Agnihotri Ji made a film, so he was given security," she added. She said that such creative freedom was earlier missing from this country. "This was an important phase of the country's history but no one had the guts to make a film on this. So I think it is a very good time for creative artists," the actor said. "Emergency" will also feature veteran actor Anupam Kher in the role of revolutionary leader J P Narayan, Shreyas Talpade as former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, and Mahima Chaudhry as author-cultural activist Pupul Jayakar. (With PTI inputs) Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to enquire about the health of his father, Mulayam Singh Yadav who is currently admitted to the ICU of Gurugram's Medanta Hospital after his health deteriorated. The Prime Minister assured all possible help and assistance to him, according to the news agency ANI. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also spoke to SP chief Akhilesh Yadav to enquire about his father's health. According to information provided by the UP government, Adityanath also called doctors at the hospital and asked them to provide the best treatment to the SP patriarch, as per PTI reports. In a tweet in Hindi, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said, "Received information about the ill health of former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav. I pray to lord Ram for his speedy recovery and long life." Another Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya also prayed for a speedy recovery of the 82-year-old leader. "Respected netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) is admitted to the ICU. His condition is stable. It is a humble request to all of you that please do not come to the hospital. Information about netaji's health will be given from time to time," the SP wrote on its official Twitter handle. Mulayam Singh Yadav has been shifted to the ICU ward of Gurugram's Medanta Hospital. The 82-year-old's health condition is stable but he is still in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), said the party in a statement on Sunday. He has been under treatment at the hospital since August 22, the sources said, adding that the SP leader was admitted to the hospital in July as well. Family members of the SP patriarch are reaching Gurugram to check on his health, the party's Uttar Pradesh unit spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary said. While his brother Shivpal Singh Yadav is there, Akhilesh Yadav also visited the hospital, party sources told PTI. They added that the party workers have been advised not to rush to Gurugram. According to hospital sources as quoted by PTI, the veteran leader is being treated under the supervision of oncologists Dr Nitin Sood and Dr Sushil Kataria. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also called on Akhilesh Yadav and enquired about his father's health. In a tweet in Hindi, Singh said, "On getting information about the ill health of former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav, I talked to his son Akhilesh Yadav over the phone and enquired about his well-being. I pray to god that he gets well soon." (With inputs from agencies) Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. MBABANE The lawyer who is accused of raping and further impregnating his children has come out to claim that his arrest is politically motivated. According to the lawyer, the Crown is not really interested in securing a conviction against him on the charges he is facing, but is reacting to the comments he made on social media about the prevailing political situation in the country. It was further his contention that his arrest was not conducted in utmost good faith. This is a pure government crackdown on its critics, irrespective of whether the criticism is constructive or not, submitted the lawyer. Unrest During the political unrest in the country, the lawyer was one of those who took to social media to make comments that were critical of the government. Meanwhile, several women were reportedly coming out to report their horrific experiences, allegedly at the hands of the attorney. According to the investigator of the cases, Inspector Millicent Dlamini, more charges were likely to be added against the lawyer. The lawyer is alleged to have impregnated his children and forced them to take abortion tablets. Two of the minors and his helper allegedly gave birth to his children. In his replying affidavit, the attorney denied having committed the offences, instead he claimed that the charges against him were fabricated by his enemies and that they were politically driven. My arrest remains unlawful because according to the prevailing jurisprudence in our country, the proper approach would have been to secure my attendance on summons and amend the charge sheet to accommodate the new charges, submitted the accused. He went on to dismiss the allegations by the investigator that several women were coming out to report cases of abuse against him. It would have been proper if the Crown had filed confirmatory affidavits from the complainants together with the alleged new ones, who are said to be emerging with fresh complaints to verify the assertion by the investigator, he argued. The accused averred that, in the absence of the confirmatory affidavits from the complainants, all the charges remained unverified and were hearsay evidence. May I mention further that in our law, arrest for purposes of investigation remains unlawful and if the reason of my arrest is to investigate me while in detention, then I am in unlawful custody, contended the accused. He further maintained that he never committed the unlawful acts which were alleged on the charge sheet. In his papers, he informed the court that he intended to plead not guilty when the charges were read to him. Defence He said his major defence to all his four charges (one of the initial five charges was withdrawn at the magistrates court) was actus reus, which was a major component of the crimes he had been charged with. Actus reus means an action or conduct which is a constituent element of a crime, as opposed to the mental state of the accused. The lawyer, who is represented by Khumbulani Msibi of Dlamini Kunene Associated, told the court that his children, who were the complainants in the matter, were persuaded by his enemies to act maliciously against him. I do state that they have been unduly influenced to fabricate evidence against me and this will be shown during the trial when the matter gets to be heard, said the accused. He further submitted that he was a law abiding citizen and was fully aware of common law rape and the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018 and all its consequences. I have always known the possible sentences and the deponent (investigator) speaks like she has just given me a lecture on sexual offences for the first time. I am a lawyer and represent people who are charged with sexual offences and I have always known the nature of the offences way before my arrest, he argued. The accused went on to tell the court that he was aware that Section 3 of the SODV Act attracted strict liability. However, he said one had to still prove that the actus reus actually happened beyond reasonable doubt, which I deny in the strongest possible terms. Judge Zonke Magagula, who heard the bail application, on Friday, reserved his judgment after hearing arguments of both parties. The Crown is represented by Bhekiwe Ngwenya from the chamber of the director of public prosecutions (DPP). The law is already on the books in Tennessee, but voters will have the option to put it into the state's constitution as an amendment. Viking Girl Guides continue meetings on Thursdays, in the Temperance Hall. New members and volunteers are always welcome - you don't have to have been in Guiding before to join us! On February 26, 1972, 12 ladies were enrolled into Irish Girl Guides with the aim of establishing units of Rangers, Guides, Brownies, and in later years Ladybirds in Longford. Over the past 50 years, the success of this organisation has seen Guiding in Longford has grown stronger and spread throughout the county. Through Irish Girl Guides, girls from age 5 upwards have been given opportunities worldwide. This very active District was core to guiding all over Ireland, with units participating in International Camps nationwide and also traveling internationally. Many girls and young women travelled abroad with Guides with destinations including Girl Guide World Centres and over the years many Guides have visited Our Chalet, Adelboden in Switzerland. With the support of Leaders over the years, girls have learned many new skills and developed the confidence to be themselves. Longford District Girl Guides are celebrating this 50th Anniversary with the support of Longford County Council and Longford Live and Local with a Variety Show on October 23 in the Longford Temperance Hall. Longford Guides would like to invite all past Leaders to join them in this celebration and recognise their contribution to the girls and women of Longford, free tickets are available on Eventbrite. In putting together a commemorative programme, they would love to hear your memories and stories from camp, no matter how small - what did you take from Guiding? Any stories, contributions or thoughts, no matter how small, would be welcomed to form part of this notable occasion. Please contact Joanna, jo.pearman@gmail.com or 086 237 2616 if you have anything to share or to join us at the event. We would really like to reach out to past Leaders to create a Timeline of Guiding in Longford and make sure everyone past and present who has contributed to the building and continuation of Longford Guiding is recognised. Irish Girl Guides is a uniquely girl-only, active & dynamic organisation, offering a varied and exciting programme for girls and women from age 5 upwards! Ladybirds - aged 5 to 7 years; Brownies - aged 7 to 10 years; Guides - ages 10 to 14 years; Sr Branch - ages 14 up and from age 18 upwards you can become a Leader with the Irish Girl Guides. There is a strong emphasis on the outdoors, environment, community responsibility and teamwork. The girls' self-esteem, confidence and leadership skills are developed as they progress through Guiding. The Irish Girls Guides actively promotes diversity and inclusion and welcomes girls and women from all walks of life, always welcoming new volunteers into all units. To find out more about Longford Ladybirds, Brownies, Guides and Sr Branch email: LongfordGirlGuides@ gmail.com or find us on Facebook @LongfordGirlGuides. A Longford woman accused of carrying out a feud related assault on another woman inside a department store learned last week of how her case has been held up owing to an injury sustained by the lead prosecuting officer. Teresa Dinnegan (35) 18 Grian Ard, Longford, was in attendance at last week's District Court sitting to face a charge of assaulting an alleged female victim at Penneys, Longford Shopping Centre on March 16. However, Sgt Mark Mahon, said there was no likelihood of any progress being made in the short term after a key garda witness in the case was signed off sick as a result of an injury sustained while on duty. Defence solicitor Diarmuid Quinn said his client was amenable to one final adjournment, prefacing those remarks by revealing that Ms Dinnegan was anxious to expedite a matter which had been in the court lists for the past six months. Judge Owens said she was mindful of those concerns but said an injury to a garda member who is central to the case had to be factored in also. In marking the case time passing against the State, Ms Dinnegan was remanded on continuing bail to November 22. Frank Milling has been appointed as the 15th Principal and Warden of Wilsons Hospital School. Originally from Clonmel, Co Tipperary, Mr Milling graduated from University College, Cork with a BA in Gaeilge and Geography in 2000, and a Higher Diploma in Education in 2001. He graduated from Ulster University with an M.Ed. (Leadership and Management) in 2012. Mr Milling is now a Doctoral candidate at the Institute of Education in DCU, where he is examining the identity of the post-primary principal in a multi-governance environment. As a teacher, Mr Milling was an NQT Mentor, SSE co-ordinator and Department head. He worked as an Assistant Examiner for the State Examinations Commission and as a Local Facilitator for the Professional Development Service for Teachers. From 2016-2018 he was seconded as a Subject Advisor (Gaeilge) to the Junior Cycle for Teachers (JCT), a Department of Education Support Service for schools, where he liaised with the Inspectorate, the NCCA, SEC and the Irish language organisations on a regular basis. Most recently, Mr Milling served as Director of Monaghan Education Centre, catering to the CPD needs of over 160 schools and 1,500 teachers across Cavan and Monaghan. Before this, he was appointed the first external Principal of Blakestown Community School, Dublin 15 and served as the first Deputy Principal of Firhouse ETSS. Mr Milling is an Adjunct Lecturer to PME students in TCD and previously served as Occasional Lecturer to PME students in UCD, and as Associate Lecturer (Leadership) at Ulster University. With specialist leadership and planning expertise, and comprehensive experience of CPD provision, organisational and instructional leadership, Mr Milling has a deep interest in distributed school leadership, planning, curriculum and assessment reform, restorative practice, learner empowerment, student-voice, and the building of communities of practice. Married with two children, Mr Milling's actions have promoted inclusion and the promotion of diversity, working in partnership with students, teachers, parents and the wider community to co-create a school culture based on the principles of compassion, personal responsibility and ambition. Ta gra aige don Ghaeilge agus tapaionn se gach deis i a labhairt ina shaol pearsanta agus proifisiunta. His hobbies and interests include hiking, rugby, landscape photography and horticulture. Wilsons Hospital School welcomes Mr Milling to his new position, which will commence on November 7, 2022. This is an exciting time for Wilsons as Mr Milling seeks to advance on the work of his predecessors in a school with a vibrant and progressive outlook. The entire school community of students, staff, parents and Board members wish Frank every success as he assumes his new role. Res non Verba. Food, Wine, & Dining By Ls Cohen Published: October 03 2022 The family-style restaurant is getting good reviews online. With family-style portions and a menu of traditional Italian-American fare, 7Seventy7 moved into Long Beach this summer and has been getting great reviews online. The antipasti menu features Grilled Octopus with roasted confetti potatoes, garlic, EVO, green peppers, and red pickled onions ($24), Crab Cakes that are pan seared and served with chipotle aioli ($22) and Mini Chicken Meatballs with a light spicy vodka sauce ($14). Their pasta menu offers a choice of Linguini, Penne, Messa Rigatoni, Ravioli, Whole Wheat, and Gluten Free in all your favorite styles including Marinara ($20), Vodka ($20), White Clam Sauce ($22), and Veal-chopped Meat Sauce ($20). Chefs specials include a 22oz. Mushrooms and onions (MP), 16oz. Veal Chop grilled with rainbow carrots, demi glaze ($45), and a pan seared Branzino filet with grilled asparagus and saboriche salsa ($42). They also have a healthy menu to choose from along with other entrees. On Yelp, Anthony P, from Atlantic Beach, gave it five stars. Went to this place for my 39th wedding anniversary with my family, he wrote. I must say it was very enjoyable. Everything we ate was excellent service was good highly recommend it. Sam K, from Oceanside, also loved it. Food here is amazing and service is great, she wrote. I love that it's family style because my friends and I tend to share our meals anyway. We got the calamari, baked clams, burrata, chicken francese, penne alla vodka, and cannoli dip. Everything was delicious, but I was surprised with the dessert because I didn't think I would like the cannoli dip as much as I did. We went on a Friday night, so they also had live music and some people were dancing. It seems like a fun place to hang out at, even if you go just for a drink. Location: 777 W Beech Street, Long Beach, (516) 544-6173. Community, Charity & Cause By Chris Boyle Published: October 03 2022 Four flights are scheduled on Saturday, October 8th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marking its 78th anniversary, American Airpower Museums Douglas C-47B Skytrain will perform Living History Flight Experiences on Saturday, October 8th. Dozens of Long Islanders will get a rare chance to fly in AAMs historic WWII C-47B, one of the few still in original military condition. This is a one-of-a-kind immersive educational program, where Living Historians provide a sense of what 101st and 82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers felt on their incredible 1,200-plane D-Day assault. Noted WWII Living Historian Robert Scarabino, with help from his 101st Airborne Living Historians, will transport passengers back in time. Affectionately dubbed Second Chance, AAMs iconic transport is an original C-47B built in 1944 and supplied to the U.S. Army Air Force. Each D-Day flight experience features: a mission briefing; a chance for passengers to wear authentic military field jackets, helmets, and gear throughout the mission. Once on board AAMs C-47B, passengers watch pilots operate their aircraft as paratroopers get ready for battle. Its so realistic and unforgettable, right up to the moment when passengers hook their parachutes up to the static line and get ready to jump. Dont worry, no jumping is allowed! Four flights are scheduled on Saturday, October 8th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. There are seats available, but they are booking up fast. To reserve your place or ask about future flights, check out AAMs website at www.americanairpowermuseum.org and click the Book Flight Experience tab. Or call (516) 531-3950 or (631) 454-2039. Also, you can visit AAMs gift shop Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Hangar 3, 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale, NY. As a special promotion, Cockpit USA has over-stocked the gift shop with discounted flight jackets; 10 percent of all sales this Fall will be donated to AAM! The public is welcome to visit Hangar 3 all day on Saturday, October 8th, to watch each flight and tour AAMs many exhibits. Visitors can watch as paratroopers (Living Historians) and passengers suit up, apply face black-out, don their parachutes, check weapons and board Second Chance. Watch as the planes mighty twin engines fire up and she takes off from Republic. Regular admission for adults is $15, seniors and veterans $12 and children 5-12 $10. Tickets and pre-registration not required for regular admission. Snacks and refreshments are available for purchase on site. Second Chance, an original WWII C-47B, was transferred to the Royal Air Force in 1945 and flew in the Berlin Airlift (1948 - 1949) with the RAF, serving until 1950. The aircraft next served in the Belgian Air Force for two years. In 1952 she went to the French Air Force, serving two years in Viet Nam, as well as in India, Algeria, Morocco and the Congo. In 1967 she was sold to Israel and flew in the Israeli Defense Force 32 years. AAM acquired the aircraft in 2000. In addition to AAMs D-Day flights, she also performs at regional air shows in classic WWII D-Day markings with the original D8 code. One of the last C-47Bs still in stock military configuration, this aircraft has just over 17,000 hours in the air, one of the worlds lowest flight times ever! Health & Wellness By Chris Boyle Published: October 03 2022 Medical Assistants provide indispensable support to our clinical teams, said Catholic Health President & CEO Patrick OShaughnessy. Catholic Health and Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) has announced a new and innovative workforce development partnership to provide a career path and advancement opportunities for health care workers that will also address our regions need for medical assistants. Catholic Health and SCCC anticipate this program will offer multiple benefits for patients and providers. Medical Assistants provide indispensable support to our clinical teams, not only at our hospitals but also at our many physician practices and Ambulatory Care facilities, said Catholic Health President & CEO Patrick OShaughnessy, DO, MBA. By partnering with Dr. Bonahue and Suffolk County Community College, we can cultivate talent to help improve the health of Long Islanders. Suffolks partnership with Catholic Health is a shining example of the colleges expertise in exploring an industrys needs and then creating programs that are critical to building our regional workforce. At the same time, our participants receive the training that will improve their economic well-being and career paths, said Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Edward Bonahue. Suffolks Medical Assisting certificate program is expected to launch in November. Its a 7.5-month course that will include 24 students in the inaugural class. The program will offer hybrid learning options, featuring online classes and in-person labs held at Suffolks Riverhead and Brentwood campuses. Catholic Health will offer externships at its medical offices, ambulatory centers and hospitals where each student will have a supervisor assist with the day-to-day experience to ensure a successful outcome. Additionally, Catholic Healths Human Resources Department will offer assistance with applications, interviews and job placement following the program. The program costs $2999 and students who meet certain criteria can apply for grants through the Suffolk County Department of Labor. Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing, & Consumer Affairs Commissioner Rosalie Drago stated, The Suffolk County Department of Labor is excited to work with Catholic Health and Suffolk Community College to offer our mutual constituents an innovative workforce and career training program. In keeping with the vision of Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, our efforts in this partnership shall be guided by removing workforce barriers-to-entry and supporting industry-led curriculum programming that adequately prepares the students of today to become the workforce of tomorrow. Individuals interested in the Medical Assisting Certificate Program can visit www.sunysuffolk.edu/ma or https://www.chsli.org/medical-assistant-program About Suffolk County Community College Suffolk County Community College is the State University of New York (SUNY) systems largest community college, enrolling more than 20,000 for-credit students and over 7,500 non-credit students. The College offers more than 100 degree and certificate program options. The College is comprised of three campuses and two downtown centers: The Ammerman Campus in Selden, NY; Michael J. Grant Campus is Brentwood, NY; Eastern Campus in Riverhead, NY and downtown centers in Riverhead and Sayville. About Catholic Health Peel Hunt Ltd - London-based investment bank - Says it is making "significant progress" against its strategic priorities despite "historically low levels of capital markets activity". Expects revenue for the six months ended September 30 at around GBP40.5 million. Says investment in proprietary technology remains a "key strategic focus and differentiator" for the firm. Adds it remains on track to launch Peel Hunt Europe by the end of its financial year. Looking to the second half, says the outlook for capital markets remains "uncertain". Nonetheless, enters the half with a "robust" balance sheet and a "strong" regulatory capital position. Peel Hunt will announce its half-year results on December 1. Current stock price: 84.45 pence 12-month change: down 63% By Heather Rydings; heatherrydings@alliancenews.com Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. (Alliance News) - Vodafone Group PLC on Monday confirmed that it is in discussions with CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd regarding a possible combination of Vodafone UK and Three UK. The Newbury, England-based telecommunications company said the proposed transaction would involve both companies combining their UK businesses, with Vodafone owning 51% and its partner CK Hutchison owning 49% of the combined business. "The merged business would challenge the two already consolidated players for all UK customers and bring benefits through competitively priced access to a third reliable, high quality, and secure 5G network throughout the UK," Vodafone said. However, Vodafone emphasised that "there can be no certainty" that any transaction with CK Hutchison will ultimately be agreed. The Hong Kong-based conglomerate CK Hutchison has been exploring a sale of Three UK for some time. According to Sky News, insiders said on Monday that talks between the two firms were now at a "relatively advanced" stage. Vodafone shares were up 2.4% at 103.55 pence each on Monday around midday. By Xindi Wei; xindiwei@alliancenews.com Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. MANZINI There should be a three-month buffer stock of drugs, according to the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU). Secretary General (SG) of SWADNU Mayibongwe Masangane, said the issue of drug shortages in hospitals had resulted in his union constantly meeting the administration of the Ministry of Health. As an organisation, we have been meeting with the Ministry of Health and discussing possible solutions to the problem of drug shortage. The procurement system of government needs to be reviewed and or improved. There should be three months buffer stock to ensure that the CMS (Central Medical Stores) does not run out of any medication at any given time, he said. Discussed It is worth noting that Parliament in recent months discussed the shortage of medication and among the challenges, it was said medical supplies and pharmaceuticals were requisitioned from CMS on time, but delivered late. The shortage of fuel and transport was at the core of the challenges that were raised and the Ministry of Health has in various instances affirmed that there was a challenge with transport and fuel. On the other hand, Masangane said shortage of drugs and pharmaceuticals in the public health sector was a perennial challenge, that had seemingly been normalised. He said it was saddening to see that the healthcare system seemed to be collapsing in all aspects. He said this affected his cadre in delivering quality health care to the nation. The SG said drug shortages ended up setting up nurses against the nation. Government continues to make accusations that nurses steal drugs yet it knows clearly that those drugs have not been supplied, he said. It is worth noting that several reports were published by this publication wherein some healthcare workers were found to have stolen pharmaceuticals and or medical supplies. In May 2022, this publication reported that three public health facilities were piloting the logistics management information sytsem (LMIS), as means to avert stock-out of medical supplies. This, according to the Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Health, Dr Simon Zwane, communication between the CMS and public healthcare facilities was set to be tightened. He had said the Ministry of Health, through financing from the Global Fund, was piloting the LMIS Programme in three healthcare facilities, namely: Piggs Peak Government Hospital, Dvokolwako Health Centre and Lobamba Clinic. Communication The LMIS Programme seeks to ensure that communication between the CMS and health facilities is fluid. Zwane said the same ought to be the case with healthcare facilities such that they were also able to know the stock status of the CMS. Dr Zwane said the pilot project was set to assist government in closing the gaps. The PS said the ministrys plan was to implement the LMIS at 22 other facilities. He said the LMIS would interface with the client management information system (CMIS), which would hopefully help them reduce unnecessary over and repeated prescription per patient. Dr Zwane also acknowledged that inconsistent supply of fuel was a major challenge contributing to shortages in healthcare facilities. He said an attempt to have fuel bowsers at the CMS were unsuccessful. (Alliance News) - A UK minister for Northern Ireland who was previously a strident Brexit supporter has apologised for his former "ferocious" stance on negotiations with the EU. Steve Baker, previously a member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of MPs, told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham that relations with Ireland were not "where they should be" and added that ministers needed to act with "humility" to restore relationships with the Republic and the EU. Wycombe MP Baker told the conference: "The thing I want to add, as one of the people who perhaps acted with the most ferocious determination to get the UK out of the EU: I think we have to bring some humility to this situation. "It is with humility that I want to accept and acknowledge that I and others did not always behave in a way which encouraged Ireland and the EU to trust us, to accept that they have legitimate interests, legitimate interests that we are willing to respect. "Because they do and we are willing to respect them, and I am sorry about that, because relations with Ireland are not where they should be and we all need to work extremely hard to improve that and I know that we are doing so." His boss, Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, said he had "learnt a lot in the last few years" about the intricate links between the UK and Ireland. He gave the examples of the common travel area and common energy market between Northern Ireland and the Republic, telling the conference: "What we do independently in the UK, where we give GBP400 and other support to consumers of energy, actually can have some effect on the market in Ireland. "I understand the complications. Maybe we could have understood them a bit better sooner." The conciliatory tone from ministers came after Foreign Secretary James Cleverly held his first call with Maros Sefcovic, the European Commission vice president. Sefcovic described the call as a "good conversation", and said negotiating teams are due to meet soon amid a row over post-Brexit arrangements in Northern Ireland. Ireland's Europe minister Thomas Byrne welcomed the comments from Baker and Heaton-Harris. "There is an opportunity now to find agreed solutions around protocol implementation," he said. "It's important we now move into real engagement between EU and UK teams, to arrive at solutions." source: PA Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. (Alliance News) - CK Hutchinson Holdings Ltd on Monday confirmed it is in discussions with Vodafone Group PLC over a possible merger of Three UK and Vodafone UK. The Hong Kong-based conglomerate said the envisaged transaction would involve both companies combining their UK businesses with CK Hutchinson holding 49% and Vodafone holding 51% of the combined business. CK Hutchinson noted that Three and Vodafone do not have "the necessary scale" to earn their cost of capital in relation to 5G. The combination will ensure Three and Vodafone gain "the necessary scale to be able to accelerate the rollout of full 5G in the UK and expand broadband connectivity to rural communities and small businesses." It said the combined business would challenge the two already consolidated players and bring benefits though a "competitively priced access to a third reliable, high quality, and secure 5G network throughout the UK." The company noted that there was "no certainty" that any transaction between the two companies will be agreed. Shares in Vodafone were trading 2.8% higher at 103.93 pence each in London on Monday afternoon. By Chris Dorrell; chrisdorrell@alliancenews.com Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. Represents continued expansion of Macquarie Asset Managements transportation infrastructure footprint across the Americas Builds on MAMs global airports experience via platform with strong local partner Today, Macquarie Infrastructure Partners V (MIP V), an Americas-focused, unlisted infrastructure fund managed by Macquarie Asset Management (MAM), the worlds largest infrastructure manager1 announced an agreement with Odinsa, the concessions company of Grupo Argos to acquire 50% of Odinsas stake in airport concessionaires Opain and Corporacion Quiport (Quiport). The airports platform also includes three additional private airport initiatives that Odinsa has been pursuing in Colombia. Opain is the operator and manager of El Dorado International Airport serving the capital city of Bogota, Colombia, and Quiport is the company that operates Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, Ecuador. We are excited to continue to increase our footprint in the region and invest in high-quality infrastructure assets that deliver essential services, said Karl Kuchel, CEO of Macquarie Infrastructure Partners. This investment expands our highly-valued existing partnership with Odinsa and we look forward to working collaboratively with key stakeholders going forward to further strengthen transportation infrastructure across the region. Jorge Mario Velasquez, President of Grupo Argos and of the Board of Directors of Odinsa added, We are pleased to announce a new alliance with the world's largest infrastructure manager. The new platform will bring together the experience, technical capabilities, track record and financial strength of two major companies to develop airport infrastructure in Colombia and the region. This is an important milestone in the materialization of Grupo Argos' strategic thesis. "With this new alliance with Macquarie, we reiterate our confidence and interest in continuing to promote the competitiveness of Colombia and the region with projects that contribute to sustainable development, said Mauricio Ossa, President of Odinsa. El Dorado International Airport is the second busiest passenger airport in South America2, first by cargo, serving nearly 35 million passengers with 47 domestic destinations and 49 international destinations each year. Mariscal Sucre International Airport is the airport in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, which serves nearly five million passengers and is the first airport in the Americas to be awarded a 5-star rating by SKYTRAX. Quiport holds a 35-year concession to operate Mariscal Sucre International Airport from 2006 to 2041, and Opain holds a 20-year concession to operate El Dorado until 2027 with an extension of up to four years. This transaction comes three months after the establishment of a toll road platform by MIP V and Odinsa, which owns majority stakes in four operating toll roads in Colombia. IPE Real Assets 2021 Top 100 Infrastructure Investment Managers (4 July 2022), based on assets under management as of 31 December 2021. International Air Transport Association (IATA), 2019 This press release does not constitute an advertisement or an offer to sell any security or the solicitation of any offer to buy an interest in MIP V or any existing or future fund or investment vehicle managed or advised by MAM and/or its affiliates or any other security. Other than Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 (Macquarie Bank), any Macquarie Group entity noted in this press release is not an authorised deposit-taking institution for the purposes of the Banking Act 1959 (Commonwealth of Australia). The obligations of these other Macquarie Group entities do not represent deposits or other liabilities of Macquarie Bank. Macquarie Bank does not guarantee or otherwise provide assurance in respect of the obligations of these other Macquarie Group entities. In addition, if this document relates to an investment, (a) the investor is subject to investment risk including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and principal invested and (b) none of Macquarie Bank or any other Macquarie Group entity guarantees any particular rate of return on or the performance of the investment, nor do they guarantee repayment of capital in respect of the investment. Now that Luxembourg has officially decided to lift the COVID-19 entry rules for travellers from third countries, Spain is the only country in Europe that still keeps restrictions in place for non-EU travellers including those from the United Kingdom. Despite the improvement in the COVID situation and the high rates of vaccination Spain continues to require all travellers from third countries to present a vaccination, recovery, or test certificate upon their arrival, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports. The requirement to present one of the above-mentioned certificates applies to all travellers from third countries who are over the age of 12. The Spanish authorities explain that all travellers should make sure that their certificate is valid in order to be permitted entry to the country. A vaccination certificate is considered valid if the traveller has completed primary vaccination in the last 270 days or has received a booster shot. Travellers who have not been vaccinated can also enter Spain as long as they present a recovery or test certificate. A recovery certificate is considered valid in Spain if it proves that the holder has recovered from COVID infection in the last six months. More than seven months after invading Ukraine and only three days after illegally annexing four regions of the Ukrainian country, Russia continues to send alarming messages to the West. This time it was its foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, who accused the West of emulating Adolf Hitler by using Ukraine as an "instrument of war" against Russia, as Germany did against the USSR in World War II. "As of today, the United States has subordinated practically the entire collective West, mobilizing it to turn Ukraine into an instrument of war against Russia," Lavrov told the plenum of the Lower House before the ratification of the treaties on the annexation of four Ukrainian regions. "Just as Hitler once put most countries of Europe in arms to attack the Soviet Union." Lavrov's attacks on the United States Lavrov accused the US of hypocrisy for accusing Russia of launching "unprovoked aggression against Ukraine," a country that was "on the path of democracy." He recalled that Washington used fabricated arguments to invade Haiti and the Dominican Republic, occupy Panama, and launch wars in Vietnam, Iraq and Libya. "UN General Assembly resolutions condemning those and other aggressive US actions, the Americans simply ignored them. It went in one ear and out the other," he said. "Unlike the US and NATO, which bombed Yugoslavia, destroyed Iraq and brought chaos to Libya," according to Lavrov, Lavrov also confirmed that Moscow would refuse to acquiesce in their military campaign. "We defend our borders, our homeland, our entire people from a real genocide organized by the descendants and followers of Nazi henchmen who now serve their masters across the ocean," he said, alluding to Kiev. "The West's plans will not be fulfilled" Lavrov predicted that, as was the case with Hitler when he invaded the USSR in 1941, "the current plans of the West will not be accomplished." After the Duma or Chamber of Deputies did so today, Monday, on Tuesday it will be the Russian Senate who will ratify the annexation of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson and Zaporiyia. MANZINI Patients lives are at serious risk following allegations that governments lack of proper storage facilities has led to expired drugs being dispatched to hospitals and ultimately being given to patients. Apparently there is a lack of storage facilities for obsolete stock in public health facilities and also at the Central Medical Stores, which results in the medication getting mixed up and old, expired stock being dispatched to hospitals. It was said the expired drugs, due to the lack of storage, ended up being kept in close proximity to those that still had a shelflife. In light of this, the Secretary General of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU), Mayibongwe Masangane, was sought to establish if health facilities had storage spaces to keep their obsolete stock. Challenges Masangane was asked if their members had reported challenges, wherein patients claimed they were offered expired drugs. He was asked if this was common and how it affected their work as nurses. Also, the questionnaire sought to establish if there were store rooms set to keep medication that had expired in health facilities. In response, he said: Yes, it is common. In most healthcare facilities, space is a scarce thing. He said the challenges of the health sector were dire and needed urgent solutions as they were accumulating on a daily basis. Masangane said these challenges included that there was no space in hospitals to keep expired pharmaceuticals, resulting in the drugs unknowingly being given to patients. Public He said this resulted in hospitals using their limited space to keep both pharmaceuticals and medical drugs that were to be given to the public next to each other. This, he said, resulted in the expired medication being dispersed to the public. Masangane said the challenge of lack of space had been communicated with the ministry in an effort to evade lawsuits, which may come to the fore, as patients may get sick from such mistakes. Expired medical products are risky due to a change in chemical composition or a decrease in strength. This means that certain expired medications are at risk of bacterial growth and sub-potent antibiotics can fail to treat infections, leading to some serious illnesses and antibiotic resistance, Masangane said. He said the challenge with the expired drugs was also caused by the fact that there were instances when the drugs were supplied when they were closer to reaching their expiry date or had already expired. This, he said, was difficult to detect when the health facilities were low on human resources. Medication He said this was a threat, as it was hard to trace medication issued to patients. Masangane said the absence of such meant that whenever a patient was issued with expired drugs; there was no method that could be used to contact him or her. It is worth noting that the Accountant General, Samuel Mbingo, in the Treasury Annual Report for the financial year ended March 31, 2021, reported that there was obsolete stock worth E13 353 358.01. Mbingo reported that the Drugs Trading Account included obsolete stock of E6 741 219.61 for the year 2019 and E3 628 712.57 for 2020. Also, he reported that there was obsolete stock of E983 425.83. Recently, the Lizzie Nkosi-led Ministry of Health released the Retail Pharmacy Survey in May 2022, which reported a litany of findings that were against the legislations set to safeguard public health. Among these findings was that expired medicines were found stored on the floor in some pharmacies and was at instances not segregated from useable stock. Expired This, the ministry reported, depicted that there was no proper record-keeping of expired medicines. In the report, the ministry stated that proper storage of medicines assisted in ensuring that safe and quality drugs were issued to the public and that it also helped to reduce wastage due to storage problems. When conducting the study, it was said one of the assessment indicators was to evaluate whether the pharmacies kept stock on the floor or not and out of 150 pharmacies visited, 91 (60.6 per cent) of them did not keep stock on the floor, while 58 (38.6 per cent) were found to have stock on the floor. It was also reported that 120 (80 per cent) had equipment and facilities for the proper storage of pharmaceutical products in the storage area and front shop, while 27 (18 per cent) of them did not. The ministry reported that according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) good storage practice guideline, materials and pharmaceutical products should be stored off the floor and should be suitably spaced to permit cleaning and inspection, as well as to allow the circulation of air. A questionnaire was sent to the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Simon Zwane and it was yet to be responded to when this article was compiled last night. Dr Zwane had been sought to comment on what caused drugs to expire, while still being kept at the Central Medical Stores and not distributed, where these drugs were kept and that some personnel in the health sector claimed that hospitals at times received expired drugs. He was asked if the ministry was aware of this and how was it dealt with. Disposing He was also asked how government was disposing of its expired medication without harming the environment or risking the drugs being stolen and resold to the public. The PS was also asked how the ministry was dealing with this, given the constant shortage of fuel and unavailability of transport as ministries were inter-dependent and the flow of pharmaceuticals distribution heavily relied on the availability of fuel and transport. Furthermore, Dr Zwane was sought for comment given that the the ministry had increased its budget for drugs to E1 035 147 109.43 in the past financial year. Destroy Meanwhile, the Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi, in a previous interview, said the disposal of drugs process was halted because there were no facilities to destroy them. These are drugs for the period between 2012 and 2014. Nkosi said there were a lot of reasons for the expiring of medication. She said for example in HIV, there had been a number of changes to the treatment regime, because of the nature of the constantly changing virus. Due to this, the minister explained that, any leftover drugs that could nolonger be used expired. She said similarly with TB treatment, as it got better controlled, or people developed resistance to one of the drugs, it was taken off the drug list. Another example would be if we respond to a particular, say localised outbreak. When it comes under control and does not recur for some time, the contingency stock may expire, she said. Kuwait-based Gulf Investment House (GIH) aims to list three affiliate companies in the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), as well as another company in the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), according to its top official. These companies are operating in various sectors including real estate, industry, retail and investment, the Chairman Abdulaziz Asaad Abdel Aziz Al Sanad told Emirates News Agency (Wam). The period for listing affiliate companies in ADX and Tadawul varies between one and two years from now, he added. According to him, GIH is the first Kuwaiti company to be listed in ADX since the launch of Boursa Kuwait. "GIH was listed in ADX last week," stated Al Sanad adding that it had been listed in the Kuwaiti Stock Exchange (Boursa Kuwait) since 2002, and its market value is AED1.96 billion. The company plans to be listed in another market by the end of 2023 or early 2024, he further added. It had reached a historic milestone following its listing in ADX, a key regional market and a major Arab market that attracts capital and foreign investment. ADX contains several dual-listed companies, including Ooredoo, Sudatel Telecom, Oman and Emirates Investment, and GFH, with a market value of AED29 billion at the end of September, compared to AED23 billion at the end of 2021. The total value of the securities trading of these companies increased nearly four-fold annually to AED118 million in the first nine months of 2022. In 2020, deaths related to drug overdose surged to greater heights in the US. The economic toll of the opioid addiction and overdose crisis in the US reached nearly $1.5 trillion in 2020 alone and is likely to grow, a latest US Congressional report said. Rise in Opioid-Related Deaths Opioid-related deaths soared during the COVID-19 pandemic, including from the powerful synthetic painkiller fentanyl, exacerbating an already tragic and costly nationwide crisis that accounted for 75 percent of the 107,000 drug overdose fatalities in 2021, Reuters reported, citing data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as quoted by Xinhua news agency report. As part of the Nusuk launch this week, Saudi Arabia has held meetings in Central Asian countries with roadshows in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Nusuk is an integrated digital platform to facilitate pilgrim journeys for visitors from around the world. The delegation participating in the official visit was led by Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, Saudis Minister of Hajj and Umrah and Chairman of the committee of the Pilgrim Experience Programme. As part of Vision 2030, the aim of the visit was to promote Saudis new and enhanced arrival procedures that will enable pilgrims all over the world to complete their religious journeys with comfort and ease. In addition, these new procedures will enrich visitors' religious and cultural experiences. Several agreements The roadshows witnessed the signing of several agreements with the aim of facilitating procedures and developing greater air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and the two countries. These agreements and partnerships were made in line with improving the quality of services under the Pilgrim Experience Programme, an initiative of Vision 2030. The Nusuk e-platform offers a wide range of options and various solutions for accommodation and flight reservations for all Muslims visiting the Two Holy Mosques, including visitors and Umrah performers. Nusuk has been developed in partnership with an accredited and elite selection of travel companies in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, along with Umrah specialists to better serve visitors and Umrah performers. Fahd Hamidaddin, Nusuk Managing Director, stated: The launch of Nusuk is one of the most significant announcements since the Saudi eVisa in 2019. These trade partner agreements and new procedures will increase the number of visitors and pilgrims that Saudi will be able to welcome from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. In addition, partnerships with national and low-cost airlines will make travel to Saudi more accessible than ever.-- TradeArabia News Service PRAGUE The heads of nine European NATO members on Sunday issued a joint statement backing a path to membership for Ukraine in the U.S.-led security alliance, and calling on all 30 NATO nations to ramp up military aid for Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a surprise move Friday to apply for fast-track NATO membership, in response to Russia's annexation of four regions of Ukraine. NATO membership needs approval from all 30 members and Ukraine is unlikely to join anytime soon. Being a country already at war complicates the request. The nine NATO countries in Central and Eastern Europe fearful that Russia could target them next if it isn't stopped in Ukraine urged a response to the annexation. The leaders of Czechia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania and Slovakia published a statement on their websites Sunday saying: We support Ukraine in its defense against Russias invasion, demand (that Russia) immediately withdraw from all the occupied territories and encourage all allies to substantially increase their military aid to Ukraine." It said the leaders firmly stood behind the 2008 Bucharest NATO Summit decision concerning Ukraines future membership. At the 2008 summit, NATO members welcomed Ukraine and Georgias aspirations to join, but declined to provide a clear timeline for the two countries possible ascension. Sunday's letter didn't mention a timeline, either. Asked Friday about Zelenskyys application for accelerated NATO membership, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the application process in Brussels should be taken up at a different time. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg was noncommittal when asked about Zelenskyys appeal to join. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of Russias Security Council chaired by Putin, derided the move, saying that Zelenskyys request amounts to begging NATO to accelerate the start of World War III. Spurred into action by security concerns over Russias invasion, Finland and Sweden officially applied to join NATO in May using an accelerated procedure. Most member countries have already ratified their applications and the two Nordic nations are on track to join in record time. From thousands of feet in the air, its easy to see the extent of Hurricane Ians destruction on Floridas Gulf Coast. Its an eerie feeling. The region resembled a ghost town. Not a resident was visible on the streets. Only police, fire rescue and ambulances navigated the area as they searched for survivors. Debris from houses, condos, businesses and resorts was piled up. Palm trees were scattered on beaches. Boats and even homes were capsized in bodies of water. All were similar sights in Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva. Inside a Coast Guard HC-144 Ocean Sentry, Air Station Miami personnel peered out the windows, each positioned to watch for any danger from other aircraft in the area. Headphones canceled out the engine noise and tuned into the pilots banter and damage commentary. Coast Guard units from all over Florida and the Southeast are participating in search-and-rescue missions along Hurricane Ians destructive path. When conducting a search and rescue mission, service members are dedicated to locating anyone in the area being surveyed, said Lt. Cmdr. Brandon DeCardenas, who piloted the Sunday afternoon flight that included a Miami Herald reporter. Our job, during Ian, has been to spot those people, locate those people and then get ... a helicopter on scene to hoist those people out, he said. Almost 650 people have been rescued by Coast Guard units, according to data provided by Air Station Miami. There have been more than 150 flight missions, which have rescued 261 people and 75 pets. The Coast Guards flood water rescue teams have located an additional 380 people and 19 pets and also transported seven loads of supplies and 60 first responders to areas in need. On the first flight DeCardenas piloted, which took place right after Ian, the crew stayed aloft over the scene for seven hours. Most subsequent flights have been three to five hours. And there are challenges. Visibility was poor in the days following Ian, DeCardenas said. Conditions fluctuate for every single case, which is something big that we have to deal with... DeCardenas said. (We need) to make sure were taking off to meet all of our restrictions and regulations but also to take off safely and come back safely. Through the storm, dozens of service members responded to the latest forecast updates at a makeshift command center at Opa-locka airport, where their aircraft are based. Normally, the command center is at the Coast Guard Seventh District headquarters downtown. Now, theyve shifted their efforts on responding to rescue missions, still working from the airport office on Sunday. Service members received additional training to be equipped to respond. A classroom of pilots on Monday before Ians arrival participated in urban search and rescue training. They went through scenarios that were likely to arise in Ians aftermath. These training sessions werent taking place just because of Ian. The Coast Guard prepares service members throughout the year to ensure they can adequately fly and respond to a storm, Lt. Cmdr. Karl Alejandre said then. We (are ready to) respond however we are requested, Alejandre said. It could be that theres flooding in an area, and were providing an overflight assessment. It could be taking search-and-rescue support people and equipment. 2022 Miami Herald. Visit at miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya has announced the promotion of its former Hotel Manager, Martin Kipping, to General Manager. Having joined the hotel in 2021 following 25 years experience of international luxury hospitality, including 13 years with Four Seasons Kipping has helped steer the groups Kuwaiti icon through its most challenging period to date. He is now poised to lead the hotel into a new era of excellence, driven by Four Seasons vision of delivering modern luxury with heart, through meaningful guest experiences that honour cultural connection and support sustainability. Kuwait has such a sense of proud heritage, comments Kipping. From the old souks to the Grand Mosque, great museums to an impressive amount of contemporary art, there are so many fascinating cultural components to explore. Im privileged to lead a prodigiously talented team committed to sharing our destinations stories through personalised touches of thoughtfulness and care. Kipping is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French and has long been captivated by different cultures. Raised near Cologne, the cultural capital of Germanys Rhineland, Kipping spent summers exploring Europe with his family, while his love of art saw him toying with a career in architecture. An early tenure at Londons The Dorchester inspired his vision of luxury leadership and led to studies at Switzerlands prestigious Les Roches School of Hospitality. Since his first Four Seasons move to Washington in 1997 as Restaurant Manager, he has crafted an extraordinary resume spanning management roles for high-end brands in North America, Latin America and the Caribbean. The values and familial culture of Four Seasons drew Kipping back to the fold, this time to Kuwait. Set in the heart of the city centre, with an urban sanctuary vibe, the award-winning hotel taps into the the Kuwaitis passion for luxurious and innovative hospitality, delivering an exquisite blend of cutting-edge design alongside a stellar international collection of contemporary art. Spectacular outdoor spaces exciting for such an urban location combine wide-reaching city and park views with breath-taking architecture by Gensler of San Francisco, interiors by Yabu Pushelberg of New York, and a world-class Spa and Hammam. In line with the Kuwaitis discerning appreciation for fine gastronomy, global culinary creativity from Milan to Tokyo shines through five restaurants and lounges serving everything from innovative Far-Eastern cuisine to Arabic and Japanese specialities and fine chocolaterie. - TradeArabia News Service About 150 service members and staff at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, cleared out of their barracks this past week when a bacteria that can cause pneumonia was found in the plumbing. Officials at Joint Base San Antonio said in a press release Friday that residents at the Liberty Barracks, where service members who are patients at the nearby medical center are housed, have been relocated across the installation after Legionella bacteria was discovered during routine water testing. "As of the last few months, we have been fortunate to have significantly fewer service members needing the care that Liberty Barracks was designed to support," Brig. Gen. Russell Driggers, head of Joint Base San Antonio and 502nd Air Base wing commander, said in the press release. "A significant portion of the facility, therefore, has been unoccupied. Water in the plumbing for these unoccupied rooms can sit stagnant, providing a breeding ground for bacteria like legionella." Read Next: Smoked Pot Recently? New Waiver Means You Might Still Be Able to Join the Air Force or Space Force The base's Behavioral Health Clinic, which is housed in Liberty Barracks, has also been relocated until the building is deemed safe again. Liberty Barracks, a 216,000-square-foot facility capable of housing nearly 400 patients, opened in 2012, designed to provide a place to stay for wounded and injured service members while they receive treatment at the base's medical facilities. Those residents may also be especially susceptible to catching Legionnaires' disease, a severe type of pneumonia caused by coming into contact with Legionella bacteria. It spreads through microscopic droplets of water containing Legionella and can be transmitted through drinking water, swimming pools and cooling towers in air conditioning systems, according to the Mayo Clinic. Those who smoke, are 50 years or older, or have weakened immune systems are most susceptible to the illness. Base officials said in a press release that there have been "no known cases of Legionnaires disease or other legionella-based infections among residents or staff at Liberty Barracks." This is not the first time Liberty Barracks has detected Legionella. Last year, the building was evacuated after the bacteria was found in the building's plumbing, according to a press release. "At that time, the plumbing system was treated with super-chlorination and regularly tested," base officials said in a press release. "Those tests revealed a positive result last week." Engineers examined the plumbing systems and found that the building's hot water heaters are functioning normally, officials said in a press release. News of the discovery of Legionella at Joint Base San Antonio is the latest housing and contamination incident among the services. In late September, the Navy told Military.com that 10 sailors have health issues that might be related to a fuel leak that contaminated water aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz last month. In August, service members stationed at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, began posting dozens of pictures online showing widespread moldy patches in hallways and images of thermostats reading anywhere from 87 to 90 degrees due to broken air conditioning. Base officials created a task force in September to address the issues. Also in August, the Army announced that more than 1,700 soldiers at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, would be evacuated after an inspection found 12 buildings were unlivable due to mold and air conditioning issues. Liberty Barracks at Joint Base San Antonio will be treated through superchlorination, the same technique used after the 2021 positive Legionella test at the base, to eliminate the bacteria sometime this week, officials said. Seventy-two hours after the treatment, the base's civil engineer and public health staff will check the building's safety and sample for Legionella bacteria and residual chlorine before allowing service members to move back in. -- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly. Related: US Defense Chief in Hawaii Amid Distrust After Fuel Spill Episode Introduction On the way out of the military, troops get a single document that has the power to get them a job and healthcare. It is constantly used by the Department of Veterans Affairs as reference for disability or benefits ratings. If a veteran wants to go to school, a university is going to ask for it. So why are some sailors being forced to wait and wait, facing extensive delays, for such a crucial proof of their service? In this episode of Fire Watch, were going to examine the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty also known as the DD-214 and why, in the last few months, sailors havent been getting theirs, causing hardships while trying to move, go to school, find a job, and get healthcare. These veterans are stuck in limbo, unable to move on with their lives while confronting a Navy backlog with no easy workaround. Guest interview edited for time and clarity. Some sound effects from Zapsplat.com. Main Topics Drew F. Lawrence and Navy reporter Konstantin Toropin discuss the difficulties that many sailors are having getting their discharge paperwork. Guest, Rear Adm. Stuart Satterwhite, commander of MyNavy Career Center, discusses ongoing fixes to the DD-214 backlog. Hosts Drew F. Lawrence and Rebecca Kheel talk with Army reporter Steve Beynon about other important military stories for September 30th. Additional Resources Listen, rate, and subscribe! Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Transcript: SPEAKERS Petty Officer 3rd Class James Donald, Steve Beynon, Drew Lawrence, Corpsman Chris Atkins, Military Presenter, Konstantin Toropin, Rear Adm. Stuart Satterwhite, Rebecca Kheel Drew Lawrence Alright, Konstantin, I have really been racking my brain about this episode ever since we got tasked it because I am honestly unsure how to make a piece of paper interesting in audio format. But this piece of paper that we're about to talk about is one that is incredibly important for service members and can change their lives. But it is indeed a boring government document. And that's discharge paperwork, that's what we're talking about today, right? Konstantin Toropin Yeah, kind of. Actually, what we're talking about is how some sailors are getting screwed over by the Navy and not getting that discharge paperwork in time to qualify for things like health care, schools, jobs -- that sort of thing. And rightfully, they're very concerned about it. But but hit me, what have you been brainstorming to get us into this? Drew Lawrence You know, I thought about my own discharge paperwork, shuffling it around opening and closing drawers in frustration looking for it. I think that this is a universal experience for every veteran, something that we've all done, right? Konstantin Toropin Is it? I've got 10 copies, like in a filing cabinet right over here. Drew Lawrence Okay. Well some of us don't, Konstantin. But I also thought about pulling up some of those military briefings, you know, the ones that you and I sat through as we were leaving the military that told us about this discharge paperwork and how to manage it. Military Presenter Okay, so this, this first slide just talks about our responsibilities here. So our primary customers are IMA reservists. We also create DD-214 for all members of the Army reserve that are going to be retiring within... Konstantin Toropin Yeah, takes me back now. Total snooze fest. What else you got? Drew Lawrence So I started running out of ideas, and I got frustrated. So I thought about taking my own DD2-14 into the backyard and lighting it on fire just to I guess, blow off some steam. Konstantin Toropin Yeah, I mean...how about how about this, I've got a better solution. Corpsman Chris Atkins Like the VA saying we cannot validate you and give you any kind of like services... Rear Adm. Stuart Satterwhite I can't change what's happened in the past. I can't go back. If somebody didn't get their DD-214, you know, on time. I apologize if you didn't receive it on time. Petty Officer 3rd Class James Donald Oh, we just found this out because you told us. You're telling me an important piece of the document paperwork like this and you guys can even communicate properly? Corpsman Chris Atkins I'm honestly lucky that my wife has a career and everything like that. But there's a lot of other people that are impacted. You can't set up your medical benefits like I was getting like mail letters... Drew Lawrence The DD-214. It's a coveted document, technically a series of documents that is meant to show a brief overview of a service member's military history. Newly minted veterans even purchase T shirts, candles and blankets with a blank version of the document on it, wrapping themselves in a sense of freedom and accomplishment after they leave the military. But if done right, that piece of paper can jumpstart a service member's transition into veteran status, setting the foundation for a successful post military life in some of the most important facets of the civilian world. Employers and schools will ask for it. Medical insurance might also ask for it. A lot hangs on this paperwork. So why aren't some service members getting it? Or at least getting it on time? My colleague, Konstantin Toropin spoke to over a dozen sailors and family members whose paperwork, or lack thereof, has hampered their transition out of the military. A period that the Pentagon and Department of Veterans Affairs knows is a fragile time for many making the difficult leap from service to civilian life. This is the story of that piece of paper and how its absence can force service members to face lack of care, empty wallets, and impossible life decisions. For Military.com, my name is Drew Lawrence, it is September 30. And this is Fire Watch. Konstantin Toropin. Thank you so much for being here on Fire Watch. You focus on the Navy and the Marine Corps. And over the last couple months you've been hearing from sailors and their family members about this piece of paper this DD-214. And honestly, I'm glad that you're here to explain it because it's it's kind of complicated. Konstantin Toropin Right, so the document itself, the DD-214, despite how veterans often talk about it in sort of reverential tones, is in itself a single piece of paper that is kind of banal. It basically says what you did in the military, how long you're in and the manner of your discharge, that type of thing. But more importantly, it also represents the culmination of an administrative process, right, this change of a service member status within all of the DoD systems and databases from active duty to veteran and in the process, unlocking the various benefits that a service member would have earned over their time in service. Those benefits are what's really a question here, you know, the ability to prove that you're a veteran to a future employer, or the ability to draw on your GI bill for university or school. That's what we're talking about. So, without a DD-214, all these background processes that unlock these benefits just don't occur. And so that's, that's what makes this this piece of paper so important. Drew Lawrence So take us back when you first learned that sailors weren't getting this piece of paper on time. What happened? And how do you hear about this problem? Konstantin Toropin Yeah, so the sailor that tipped me off to this problem was actually a navy medic, a corpsman, the Navy would call them and he was stationed in Bethesda, Maryland. And he reached out to me at the end of June because he was about to get out and he was experiencing these paperwork delays. And it was costing him time and money and patience. Yeah, not having a DD-214. That means you cannot prove that you honorably served, you don't have any -- none of your benefits. You did all of that work with no benefits coming out. Drew Lawrence Konstantin caught up with this corpsman over the phone and you might hear his kid in the background. I'm literally like, super frustrated with the thing. I feel overwhelmed now because I'm not prepared for anything. I'm just focusing on my two daughters. I'm lucky that my wife has a career and gets paid well, because I'm just making sure I just do everything I can for them. Like I haven't applied to my to be a respiratory therapist for this state yet. Yeah, I'm not I'm not settled by anything. I'm managing is what I'm doing. Konstantin Toropin So that was Chris Atkins. And he was the first of over a dozen people that I ended up speaking to about this issue. Drew Lawrence So a dozen people, that's a pretty significant amount for people to come to the media with this problem. Can you give me an idea of of the scope of this issue overall? I mean, how many people have been affected by this and what is not getting this document actually mean to service members. Konstantin Toropin So it's hard to say how many people at any given moment are still, you know, waiting for this document. But we do know that the Navy roughly goes through about 30,000 folks a year who are separated or discharged or retire. And one Admiral I spoke to who we;ll hear from later said that in the month of August, for example, the backlog was around 700 folkd. You know, what we've largely heard is anecdotal evidence from folks like Chris. And what Chris, for example, told me was that not having this paperwork meant that he and his wife weren't able to get out of the lease that they had. They weren't able to apply for that, that final move that the military promises you when you finish your service. And he said that not having it was a barrier to him starting his civilian career as well. Yeah, $10,000, I could have saved and now the Navy owes me at least $3,000 for the lease that I was stuck in. And I'm just lucky enough to have the repercussions for the Navy's like, big mess up. Konstantin Toropin And while Chris's experience was common among the sailors that spoke to us, there were other outliers that indicated to us that there were more serious consequences that came from this delay and backlog as well. For example, one sailor that I spoke to told me that while she was frustrated and trying to get a hold of this form, she also discovered that she was pregnant, and looking down the barrel of a discharge and possibly one without her benefits. And without health care she was forced to consider what that would mean for her the future, the future of her baby. And she told me that she was thinking about not even going through with the pregnancy because of the uncertainty. Drew Lawrence We've mentioned it before. But you've talked to several sailors who've gone on the record with you I want to take a step back. Because when it comes to military stories, that's kind of rare, and indicates to me that they're very frustrated by this problem. Konstantin Toropin Yeah, absolutely. Typically sailors don't dial up or email a reporter because there is a pervasive understanding that you don't talk to reporters, you handle things within the lifelines people often say. So when sailors do come to me, there's often something very serious that makes them overcome those fears. So for example, we talked to Petty Officer First Class, James Donald, who said that he was essentially trapped in Hawaii while waiting for his paperwork. don I refuse to leave this island without this piece of paperwork in my hand. I'm from Chicago, I knew I was going back to Chicago because my wife wants to be close to family. Knowing the cost of private health insurance, I've never considered that option. But I mean, I shouldn't. I said, me personally, I shouldn't have to consider that option. After serving my country for 22 years and knowing the different benefits that are available to them. But I mean, everybody has their own situation. I said, buy a house, you know, you know searching for a house, getting ready for school and which I am still gonna start school in January. But it's like, the Navy wants to cover it up. And when people read these stories, they want to make it look like the sailor's fault the paperwork, man a ton of stuff...so. Konstantin Toropin The DD-214 is essentially a ticket out of the military, quite literally, in some ways. It means you can get reimbursed for moving expenses, it means you can put in for disability pay, it means you can draw from your GI Bill. And for James, the cost of leaving without the promise of these benefits would have set him up for a rocky start to his civilian career, especially considering he told me his wife had struggled with cancer in the past. And he was very concerned about having health care in case that she needed more care in the future. And that's something that normally would have been a non issue with a DD-214 in hand. Drew Lawrence So I want to take a step back a little bit and talk about this transition period, because it's often glossed over admittedly by the media. And I'd posit, by the military itself, especially, you know, with recruiting and retention numbers being as low as they are right now. And I expect the military doesn't actually want to lose troops. Is that, you know, a fair assessment for me to make and what can you tell us a little bit about this time period that makes it such a fragile point in a service members lifecycle? Konstantin Toropin Yeah. So, you know, given the Navy's history with this issue, and it is worth sort of taking a step back and acknowledging that the problem with the DD-214 is didn't just crop up out of out of a vacuum -- there is a larger context here. And that makes hard for me to sort of think that this is just a way for them to sort of encourage people to re-enlist as opposed to get out. But you do make a point in that this issue hits people at an already vulnerable time. Experts from all sorts of professions have regularly told us in covering a variety of stories that this transition from military to civilian life is fragile and is a particularly challenging time in a person's life. And it's something that the military has struggled with, not just the Navy has struggled with for years. The VA, for example, says the veteran suicide is most likely within the first three months of leaving the military and this paperwork issue, which should be an easy task, considering the military has been handing out some kind of discharge paperwork for hundreds of years now, right? Only adds fuel to an already existing problem. Drew Lawrence So I know you've talked to some Navy officials about this, and we go on record with one guest later. So I'm not going to take away from that. But what are they saying overall about this problem? Konstantin Toropin So broadly, the position the the Navy says that the problem stems from its efforts to modernize how it does all of its HR type stuff, you know, fixing pay tracking, leave managing reenlistment and retirements, cutting new orders, all the stuff that normally a civilian HR department would tackle, right. And officials have regularly pointed to the fact that they're trying to overhaul decades old IT systems, people that have really just gotten retrenched in doing things a certain way. And so there are a lot of these challenges to overcome as they try to build what they say is a personnel management system of the future. Drew Lawrence So it sounds like the Navy is admitting here that there is indeed a problem. Are they trying to actually fix it? Konstantin Toropin Absolutely. I think in my conversation with the Navy's pay boss, the admiral that oversees this whole process, he was pretty unequivocal in saying that things aren't where they should be, and that he is trying to make changes and fix some of these backlogs and other issues that have come come out of this modernization effort. And not to give too much credit to the Navy given some of the consequences of this problem. But they are telling me that they're trying to make this process easy in the long run. Unfortunately, given these revamps, some sailors have felt the negative effects rather than the positive ones Drew Lawrence And for these sailors, what does the road ahead look like? And I guess for lack of a better term, how are they protecting themselves during this transition period? Konstantin Toropin Many sailors have told me that they as they got their paperwork ready for discharge while still on active service. They were aware that this was an issue and they tried to sort of work ahead, make sure their paperwork was as polished as it could be. Others said they proactively reached out to congressional representatives in order to make sure that the Navy was feeling additional pressure to get that paperwork to them on time. I talked to like Senator Toomey's office he said that they can't -- you can't file, we can't help you with this, you just need to file a claim against the Department of Navy. Drew Lawrence And is there any risk that these sailors are going to run into permanent issues down the line? Because they aren't getting this paperwork in time or at all? Konstantin Toropin That's a good question. I think the biggest consequence of all this is -- and several sailors have have spoken to me about this -- is not so much that they'll never have the paperwork, they eventually will. The problem is that it at a very critical juncture in their lives when they're trying to leave the military and become a civilian. That process in and of itself comes with a myriad of tasks and demands and what have you. And on top of all, that they're also dealing with this incredibly critical problem that's forcing them to, I think James mentioned that he was on the phone daily, with somebody, you know, taking copious notes, fighting with Navy representatives, and that's, you know, that's time they can't get back. That's time that could have been better spent applying for college or studying for a certification exam, or figuring out, you know, the best way to write your resume, and instead, they're fighting with this bureaucracy to try and get what is rightfully owed to them. Drew Lawrence Konstantin Toropin, thank you so much for joining us on Fire Watch Konstantin Toropin Anytime, thanks, Drew. Drew Lawrence Rear Admiral Stuart Satterwhite oversees the My Navy Career Center which is the command that is responsible for helping sailors with a variety of human resources type tasks, from getting the right pay, to processing orders, to taking care of retirements and separations. His office is responsible for this DD-214 issue as well. Admiral Satterwhite has been in the job since the summer of 2021 as the Navy is consolidating several satellite hubs that deal with discharge paperwork into one, hoping to wrangle the problem into one place. Konstantin interviewed him this week; I want to note that the original recording was about 45 minutes. So we cut it for clarity and time. Take a listen. Konstantin Toropin And if I'm remembering correctly, you know, the consolidation efforts began around 2016. Am I right? Rear Adm. Stuart Satterwhite I think Navy actually started changing PSDs in 2006, maybe even 2002? Or a little bit in that time period. Okay. That's when that actually started. Gotcha. And can you speak a little bit about what the, what the mindset was, you know, when that change began to take effect, what, you know, what was what was the intended effect, maybe you were hoping to see out of this consolidation? Rear Adm. Stuart Satterwhite In the 2000, early 2000s, there was a decision saying, 'Hey, we can we can find a better way to deliver these services to sailors.' So the more effective that would be able to deliver a better product, okay, in a more timely fashion. You know, how do we modernize 40 to 50 year old IT? Okay, and how do we take processes that have been going on, some of them 70 years old, and their processes have started, more work requirements have been increased. And our systems have not made things easier for the sailor or for the command. So when we stood up My Navy Career Center in September of last year, the objective was to take three different organizations and to combine them into one streamlined organization as each one one has, you know, so now we have a single focal point. We are working through backlogs that have been building up over time and working through an IT system that in the past transactions were deleted, and people started over again. And we've come out with the standard saying you can't delete transactions, we're gonna follow through to the finish and identify where it's at and actually stay on top of it. And we're seeing the...we're starting to see the benefits happening out here already, you know, where where do I want to take this, I want to take this beyond that and say, "Let's get your get you your DD-214 when you are going on terminally." Okay, so that's making it...this is how we improve service to sailors, okay, this is not trying to blame sailors for anything. It's my job to go out here and make this better. And so that's what we're after. How do I build trust with sailors? It's demonstrated performance of when you actually get paid. Okay? And that's, you know, I can tell you all day long but until you see it happening, that's reality. And so I understand that as far as long ways to go to make sure to gain that trust back of sailors. The past, I can't change what's happened in the past. I can't go back if somebody didn't get their DD-214, you know, on time. I apologize if you did not receive it on time. Okay, and I will endeavor to do better. Konstantin Toropin You know, am I right in understanding that, you know, some of these were delays already present in the system when you started making improvements and changes. And then other issues were caused by, you know, as you as you, I think, said, you've been, you started making procedure changes, and the experience base in the people handling some of these transactions was just not there yet. You know, I did the assessment of the organization and where we were and what got us to this point. Were these delays are present? They were, but they were scattered about to many locations. And so, in each location, it didn't seem like it was that much. But once you consolidate it, you're like, "wow, there's a different picture here." As we look at our DD-214s right now, I'm tracking this on a spreadsheet, because our IT system doesn't tell me the information I need to. Okay, and so that's a slow tedious process. When we have our IT system fully working, the beauty of the TSEs and how we've constructed them now, is that if there's a sudden increase in transactions, or you know, I need something else to happen, I can leverage any place in the organization now, to do that. You mentioned that you guys are starting to see benefits from your perspective, I mean, can you talk in some specifics as to some of the benefits that you guys are seeing? So again, so what I'm saying is re-enlistments and extensions, I'm seeing those transactions happen way inside the requirement. Okay, so they're in less than five days, or if they happen the next day, that's good. When I look at my gains overseas, I'm seeing them starting to come down, they're way inside that 30 day requirement. They're probably down about six days, maybe seven days and they're heading down to my requirement of four days. Okay, when I'm looking at stateside gains, they're taking less than 20 days. So I've got a little bit larger piece there to drive my standard down. But again, we're inside the DoD standard, but it's not quite to the MCC standard at this point in time. If you had the benefit of hindsight, you know, are there are there pitfalls, you you would have avoided? Are there lessons learned that you can sort of speak to, you know, here's where we could have, you know, done something differently, or going forward, you know, we're going to tell the Navy to not make, you know, whatever pitfall we made. I think that, you know, we can always look back with hindsight and say, 'If I could have would have should have done something like that.' If we'd had, you know, a giant organization where you could have, you know, had a fully blown or fully delivered IT solution where I could have that My Navy Portal already built today, that would be an ideal. If you - I think when you look to the commercial sector, or the private sector, I should say, they have a little bit different resourcing model out there. Or in in dollars, I would have loved to have said, you know, hey, I had an unlimited budget, unlimited personnel, and unlimited IT, I could have, I would have rolled this out differently. Like, knowing that, the world we live in, I don't really have that, you know, just like I think, you know, you've got a limited number of words you can put into an article. So we're all limited by you know, so I'm not trying to throw stones at folks, you know, it's my, it's my challenge to live with now. It's mine job to say, let's make it right. And let's, let's provide a service to sailors that we -- that they deserve and how we should be delivering to them. Drew Lawrence Hey, thanks for listening so far, we have a bit more for us to stick around, but I wanted to take a second and thank you for hanging out with us. If you'd like to show, leave us a comment or rating wherever you get your podcasts and head over to Military.com if you want to check out our other work. Thanks. Rebecca Kheel Welcome back to our reporter roundtable. I'm Rebecca Kheel, your congressional reporter for Military.com. Joining me as always is Drew Lawrence and joining us today is Military.com's Army reporter, Steve Beynon. Hi guys, how you doing today? Drew Lawrence Good. Thanks for having us, Rebecca. Uh, yeah. Steve Beynon Excellent. Excellent. Thanks for doing this. Drew Lawrence Rebecca, I want to just kind of jump right in here because over the last two weeks, champions of something that you've been covering -- the Afghan Adjustment Act have been protesting outside of the White House and the Capitol. And it seems like their efforts to give Afghans who've, you know, help the United States during the Afghan War, earn a little bit more permanency here in the United States, is -- it's getting stifled from several angles. Can you explain a little bit what this bill is? And what's holding it up in Congress? Rebecca Kheel Yeah, so just to take a step back a bit, you'll recall that they the US military evacuated 10s of 1000s of Afghans last summer, and most of them came to the United States under a temporary status known as humanitarian parole, and that at most gives them two years to be in the United States. So what this bill called, the Afghan Adjustment Act would do is it would give them a pathway to get green cards so they can be permanent residents of the United States. But as you mentioned, it hasn't made much progress. It was introduced on a bipartisan basis. But there are Republicans who have raised concern that we did not sufficiently vet all the Afghans that we brought over. And so they are opposing this bill. However, supporters of the bill point out that there are provisions in the bill to do more vetting for before they get a green card. So there have been veterans and Afghan refugees camping outside of the Capitol for about two weeks now. They say they're not going to let up pressure until Congress does this. And we saw that veterans successfully use this tactic before for the PACT acts. So they're hoping to emulate that success. Drew Lawrence And you know, that wasn't really the only pushback they got from from inside Congress. I'd seen reports that the veterans -- and like you'd mentioned, it's a lot of veterans that are there outside protesting outside of the Capitol -- were getting heckled at their own protests. What was that about and who was kind of interrupting their protest? Rebecca Kheel Yeah, so this happened both actually at the packstack protests that I mentioned, and the Afghan Adjustment Act protests. There's this group called the 1776 Restoration Movement that have been outside the Capitol protesting the treatment of veterans who have been arrested for participating in the January 6 insurrection. Drew Lawrence You know, it's it's interesting that you mentioned this group, because myself and Patricia Kime our colleague had also reported on this group last week, because they had called in to protest what they said was unfair treatment of these January 6 defendants who are currently incarcerated in DC, some are awaiting trial by calling into the Veterans Crisis Hotline. And we actually had talked to some of them. And initially, they had denied it to us saying that they hadn't done it. But you know, what is common with a lot of these groups is they had live streame it and was pretty clear that, you know, some of the members had had held it up to their live stream, which, you know, now has 1000s of views on YouTube and told them to call in to essentially protest what they felt was unfair treatment happening to people who participated in the January 6 attack on the Capitol. Steve Beynon So what what is this group get out of doing a protest that basically clogs up this line with the VA, that seems like a very -- a pretty brazen protest that's just probably hurting veterans and their spouses? Drew Lawrence I'll be honest with you, I didn't really understand the logic behind using that as a protest means. And, you know, again, they had kind of backtracked after they had done it said that they, you know, weren't trying to hurt veterans. And we had seen some anecdotal evidence of veterans not getting through -- the VA had said that, you know, all veterans were taken care of, but what was really in question was whether the veterans specific line of the new crisis line was being utilized by veterans or they're being passed over to the national crisis line, which may not have the capability to deal with veteran specific suicide problems that might have to do with post traumatic stress or some of the common things that we see when veterans might be in crisis. How does it stack with maybe some other protests that the these far right groups have done whether they've been tied to January 6 or not? Drew Lawrence So that's good question. I mean, it's hard to stack these groups because as you know, having covered extremism with military and veteran connections, they kind of pop up like whack a mole, like every few months, and they rise and fall in popularity, so it's difficult to pinpoint really, how the protests stackup. A lot of it is, you know, vying for attention. But the at the end of the day, it's, you know, the veteran crisis line specific protests really ruffled a lot of feathers within the veteran community. But Steve, I want to pivot to the Army specifically here for a second, because there has been some, you know, real shakeups, at least in the last couple of weeks that you've been reporting on in terms of recruiting, retention, and where soldiers actually want to be posted. And so I want to ask, where is the Army in terms of recruiting and retention? And how does that play into the reporting you had done? On where troops want to be stationed when they enter the Army? Yeah, so there's a lot of good news and bad news with Army recruiting and retention. It's mostly bad news. You know, for the DoD's largest service. The the active duty -- the good news first -- active duty has been beyond its retention goals since 2017. And then they look at 2017 missing that by a little bit as just hey, the goals change mid year, and that kind of screwed them up. So generally, they've had no issue keeping on as many soldiers that were originally contract...set to get out of the Army. They look to keep between 50,000 to 60,000 soldiers in the Army every year. This year, they wanted to keep 58,000. I mean, they hit that goal in in June. So it seems that once people join the Army, on paper at least -- we can talk about plenty of issues in the Army and why people get out -- but on paper, it seems that people want to stay, it's mostly about getting soldiers past that first contract. First contracts are usually about four years, once the soldiers at that point, they're a specialist may be about to become an NCO. At that point, if they re-enlist, hey, they they're close to 10 years, it's halfway to retirement. And then after that, hey, you're you're bought into the Army. So the closer they can get you that retirement date, the easier time the Army is going to have -- get that soldier locked in to service. Drew Lawrence And so you had mentioned some bad news. What's that about? Bad news is recruiting is a is frankly, a disaster for the Army. They're going to be short, both the active duty and the Army National Guard are going to be short, about 15,000 soldiers each this year, and that is due to a lot of different issues. A lot of people are blaming how soldiers are evaluated before they come into the service, medical records are easier to access. Previously, you would just not tell your recruiter or your recruiter would pretend they didn't hear about the time you stubbed your toe in middle school, or something like that. But now it's much much easier to find those issues. It's harder for soldiers to hide those problems from MEPs, which are the people that basically go through your paperwork and approve you to join. And then there's advertising -- advertising is completely outdated in the Army -- they're still putting money into Facebook, they're putting money into...they're putting some money into TV commercials. 17 year olds aren't watching TV, they're not on Facebook, and the DoD generally can't advertise on Tik Tok. There's, there's kind of a ban on it for basically being a data mining tool for the Chinese government. But that is where 17 year olds are. They're on Tik Tok, but the Army can't really use that, generally speaking. And then there's also the issue where, you know, most young Americans are too overweight to serve, or, you know, they have some minor criminal infraction. So roughly 23% of Americans are even eligible to serve in the first place. So the Army has to find that 23% and then they have to find the fraction of those people between 17 and 24 that want to join the Army and then that are even eligible for service. Drew Lawrence And you had dug out some really interesting data from the Army that kind of ties into this. And it has to do with where -- when soldiers eventually get into the military -- where they want to go and where they're going to be stationed. Yeah, so in February, the Army started this program to allow new enlistees to effectively pick where they want to get stationed. It started with just a handful of options which included Alaska, so Alaska is the is by far the most popular choice for new recruits but it was also there as an option since February. They've since added effectively every major base in the Army, they you know, including like places like Fort Bragg and stuff which only you know so far eight soldiers have volunteered for but it's only been an option for a couple of months. There's obviously limitations to that, you know, it's MOS or job dependet so you're not promised, you know, if you want to be an infantryman, you're probably not gonna get stationed at Fort Belvoir where there's no infantry units. Drew Lawrence Rebecca, there was something really interesting that you've been covering for the last two weeks and you I noticed that it, you know, it picked up a lot of coverage when it initially came out. But you've had a couple stories on this and I wanted to get your view on it. The VA made a major announcement about abortions. And it had, you know, it was positive for a lot of people it had shocked a lot of people and it was...had ruffled some feathers. What can you tell us a little bit about this decision by the VA? Rebecca Kheel Yeah, so the VA a few weeks ago announced that it would start offering abortions for the first time ever. They are limiting the abortions to cases where the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest or where the life or health of the pregnant person is at risk by the carrying the pregnancy. But it was a major change resulting from the Supreme Court ruling in June that overturned nationwide abortion rights and several states followed that ruling by banning abortion some outright some, you know, still allowing for some small exceptions, but still severely restricting abortion. And now, VA Secretary McDonough has said, as of last week, the department has actually performed its first abortion under these new rules. As you can imagine, Republicans are not at all happy about this. They have been threatening what they termed sanctions against the VA, which it's unclear what they meant by that. But it seems like it would be something where if they got control of Congress, they would go after the VA as budget. The Republican Attorney General in Alabama has threatened to prosecute VA doctors that perform abortions that run counter to Alabama's law. The VA has said that the Justice Department is backing them in their new policy and will defend VA doctors. There are real questions about you know, about how this is all going to play out going forward. Steve Beynon You know, if Republicans actually go after the VA in a serious way, especially their money, is there any indication that that's frankly, just a layup for Democrats? I can't think of a more juicy thing to hop on than a dish serve that says we're attacking veterans on health care. Rebecca Kheel Yeah, Republicans have been so vague in their plans. So far, you know, it could just be that they're going to add a line to the appropriations bill that says VA may not use funding to perform abortions as opposed to just being like, we're gonna you know, we're gonna slash your medical budget or something like that. Well, I think we've covered a lot of good topics today. Thank you guys, both for joining me again, I think we had a good conversation and thank you to our listeners for tuning in. As always, be sure to tune back in next time. Drew Lawrence Hey, everybody, thank you so much for listening to Episode 6 of Fire Watch. I want to thank our executive producers, Zachary Fryer-Biggs and Amy Bushatz, as well as my co-host, Rebecca Kheel and our wonderful guests. Thanks for listening and I'll see you next time. As you look for ways to honor and thank military veterans in your community, you might wonder how to spot a veteran. While there are many jokes about veteran stereotypes and things veterans tend to do that make them easy to identify, finding and getting to know veterans can also be a serious matter if you're looking to support and thank the community. Here are a few tips for finding veterans near you. How to Spot a Veteran Check with local veterans organizations. If you're looking to reach out to groups of veterans or learn the best way to help those who live near you, your local veteran organizations are a great place to start. The Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) and American Legion groups often have their own halls or buildings that host veteran-focused events or volunteer opportunities. Wounded Warrior Project and Team Red, White & Blue are two organizations often used by younger veterans that might have chapters near you. Visiting or contacting these organizations is a great place to start for those looking to meet or help local veterans. Related: Celebrate Veterans Day Watch for military insignia. Military veterans are often very proud of their service and wear hats, shirts or jackets that broadcast their affiliation with specific military branches or units. Navy veterans, for example, often wear ball caps that say which ship or boat they served on. If you're hoping to spot a veteran so that you can thank them for their service, keeping your eyes open for related clothing is a great way to start. Look for military vehicle tags and stickers. Many states give out special license tags to veterans, while some states have special tags for disabled and non-disabled veterans. Some veterans also put military insignia bumper stickers on their cars. Both license plates and stickers are a way to see whether the person you're parked near or driving behind is a veteran. Related: State Veterans Benefits How to Spot a Fake Veteran People faking veteran status or having certain types of military service is known as "stolen valor" and is a big topic among true military veterans. But unless you served and are intimately familiar with military ranks and insignia, it is likely difficult to know whether the person you have met is a fake veteran. If you meet someone in your community who says they are a veteran, it is usually best to assume they are telling the truth. However, some people use a fake veteran status to scam others out of money or resources. This is especially true when it comes to military romance scams. If you think something is a scam or suspect it might be a scam, it probably is. How can you spot a military romance scammer? Here are a few common military romance scam claims: They say they are being charged money to go on leave. They say they need someone to request leave for them. They say there is a fee for getting married, going on leave or communicating. They say they need permission to get married. They say they have to pay for early retirement. They say they need someone to pay their medical expenses. They say they need money to feed or house their military troops. Learn more about ways to spot a military romance scam. What to Say to a Veteran Many veterans are tremendously proud of their military service. Simply asking a veteran about their military service is a great way to offer support. Hearing these stories of service can also help you as a non-veteran understand how to better support veterans in your communities. Here are some starter questions. What to Ask a Veteran: How long were you in the military? What military service were you in? Where were you stationed? Why did you choose to serve? How did military service change your life? What Not to Say to a Veteran: While asking a veteran about their military service is a good way to honor them and create connection, there are some questions that are seen as taboo. Some veterans may not want to talk about their combat experience, and it's important to be respectful. For example, stay away from: Did you ever kill someone in the military? Did anyone you know die in the military? Related: Understanding Military Time Want to Know More About the Military? Be sure to get the latest news about the U.S. military, as well as critical info about how to join and all the benefits of service. Subscribe to Military.com and receive customized updates delivered straight to your inbox. The Prof Ahorlu-led vetting committee in charge of vetting aspiring constituency officers for the opposition National Democratic Congress in the Akatsi South constituency has cleared 48 aspirants for the various constituency executive positions in the party. However, the committee chaired by Hon. Samuel Kwadzo Wuadi has disqualified one aspirant, who, per the guidelines for the election, has the chance to appeal against his disqualification. Speaking to the media, the Assemblymember for Wute Electoral Area, Hon. Wisdom Akpabli, who is also an aspiring officer for the Deputy Treasurer position, indicated that he was impressed with the democratic way the committee carried themselves and asked others to emulate. He also seized the opportunity to call on the party's delegates to give him the nod as he picked the number 2 position after vetting and balloting. The NDC has slated October 22 and 23 for its constituency elections in some parts of the country. 03.10.2022 LISTEN Mr Owusu Nkrumah Ababio, a former candidate for the Ahafo Regional Chairman position of the opposition National Democratic Congress in 2019, has expressed optimistic of a peaceful constituency elections across the Ahafo Region. Mr Owusu Nkrumah Ababio, the former deputy Regional Youth Organizer for the then Brong Ahafo Region, further encouraged the aspirants to embark on a decorous campaign devoid of personal attacks. He noted that such campaigns that have the tendency to divide the party; a situation he said must be avoided. Mr Owusu Nkrumah Ababio made these remarks to congratulate all aspirants in the Ahafo Region for their successful filing of the nomination forms. ''The electioneering processes have been peaceful and successful without any sort of acrimony as compared to that of the ruling NPP whose election processes created tensions within the region. ''We the NDC as a Congress party, believe in the beauty of democracy - a major hallmark that distinct the great NDC from the rest of the political parties in Ghana,'' Mr Owusu Nkrumah Ababio indicated. Mr Owusu Nkrumah Ababio, who, according to reports, has his eyes glued on the Regional chairmanship position for the Ahafo Region, reminded the various candidates of the need to run a clean campaign in this internal election for the benefit of the great NDC come 2024. ''We need every member onboard to work assiduously for victory 2024 and so we must be mindful of the words we will use and the massages we will send to delegates. The massages we send to delegates must be one that will energise our base in unity for victory but not the one that will create cracks after the constituency elections, Mr Owusu Nkrumah Ababio added. Talking Tipps Africa Foundation, not-for-profit organization, which trains parents, preschool teachers and other paediatric professionals has launched a new initiative dubbed Read2Baby Campaign aimed at cultivating the habit of reading to babies in Ghana. Speaking at the official launch of the campaign at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital on Thursday September 29, the founder of Talking Tipps Africa Foundation, Gifty Ayoka said Ghanaians must adopt the culture of reading to their kids from the inception of pregnancy. Your baby hears you using many different emotions and expressive sounds. This supports social and emotional development and promotes the childs mental well-being. It encourages your baby to look, point, touch, and answer questions. This helps with social development and thinking skills. Your baby improves language skills by copying sounds, recognizing pictures, and learning words, she said. On her part, Leticia Gomado, a speech and language therapist demonstrated to the caregivers how they can help read to the child. Over 120 books were distributed to the children present. The importance of reading was translated into Ga, Hausa and Twi. Most parents who were present at the event were unaware they could read to their babies. Dr Kilba, Head of Child Health at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital admonished caregivers to read to their child and allow the child to play to promote the childs overall social and emotional development: She said early reading helps improve the literacy skills of children and increasing the childs vocabulary. She cautioned caregivers to avoid screen time in the first 18 months of the childs life. The campaign is supported by Education Minister Dr Yaw Adutwum, National Security Minister Kan Dapaah, Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah and Akwasi Peprah Odoom, Branch Manager of Republic Bank. Meanwhile, Dr Celeste Roseberry has donated some books to Talking Tipps Africa Foundation to ensure effective running of the Read to Baby Campaign in Ghana. It is such a joy to be part of your work, Dr Roseberry said. The launch was attended by some officials including Maame Araba Mens, a Senior Nursing officer at Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Scholar Dery, a Senior Nurse, Amina Sulemana a volunteer, Speech Therapists including, Leticia Afi Gomado, Latifah Mohammed Bernice Brown, Christopher Mennia- Quansah and Amina Sulemana. Security forces fired tear gas to disperse angry protesters outside the French embassy in Burkina Faso's capital on Sunday, as unrest simmered in the impoverished West African nation following the claim of a second coup this year. The latest unrest began on Friday, when junior military officers announced they had toppled the country's junta leader, sparking deep concern among world powers over the latest putsch to hit the Sahel region battling a growing Islamist insurgency. Late on Saturday, the junta leader, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, said he had no intention of giving up power and urged the officers to "come to their senses". His comments came shortly after the army general staff dismissed the coup as an "internal crisis" within the military and said dialogue was "ongoing" to remedy the situation. Burkina Faso. By (AFP) The capital remained tense overnight, with demonstrators gathering on the main roads of Ouagadougou as a helicopter hovered above. In a statement read out on television on Sunday, the officers who claimed the coup said they had lifted a curfew they had imposed and called for a meeting of ministry heads for later in the day. The officers had accused Damiba of having hidden at a military base of former colonial power France to plot a "counteroffensive," charges that he and France denied. On Sunday, dozens of supporters of the new self-proclaimed putsch leader, Ibrahim Traore, gathered at the French embassy in the capital. Security forces fired tear gas from inside the compound to disperse the protesters after they set fire to barriers outside and lobbed rocks at the structure, with some trying to scale the fence, according to an AFP reporter on the scene. There were no immediate reports of injuries. The French foreign ministry condemned "the violence against our embassy in the strongest terms" by "hostile demonstrators manipulated by a disinformation campaign against us." It marked the latest incident against a France-linked building in two days, after a fire at the embassy on Saturday and a blaze in front of the French Institute in the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso. A French institute in the capital also sustained major damage, the foreign ministry said. The main gates of the market in Ouagadougou were shut after the reported coup. By OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT (AFP) The officers said they had carried out their putsch because Damiba had failed to quell jihadist attacks in the country. Damiba himself came to power in a coup in January. He installed himself as leader of the country's 16 million people after accusing elected president Roch Marc Christian Kabore of failing to beat back jihadist fighters. But the insurgency has raged on. More than 40 percent of Burkina Faso remains outside government control. Thousands have died and about two million have been displaced by the fighting since 2015, when the insurgency spread to Burkina Faso from Mali. 'Burkina Faso needs peace' Friday's coup claim sparked a wave of international criticism, including from the United States, the African Union, the European Union and the regional grouping ECOWAS. Ousted leader Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, pictured in March 2022. By OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT (AFP/File) "Burkina Faso needs peace, stability and unity to fight terrorist groups and criminal networks operating in parts of the country," said a statement by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. Jihadist violence has also prompted a series of coups in Mali, Guinea and Chad since 2020. The new Burkina putschists said they were willing "to go to other partners ready to help in the fight against terrorism". No country was explicitly mentioned but Russia, whose influence is growing in French-speaking Africa, is among the possible partners in question. A few hours before the coup on Friday, hundreds of people had rallied in the capital seeking Damiba's departure, the end of France's military presence in the Sahel and military cooperation with Russia. France has a contingent of military special forces based in Kamboinsin, which is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Ouagadougou. Members of the ruling New Patriotic Party, NPP have been charged to work hard to retain power come 2024 since the party cannot afford to lose power to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Director of External Affairs of the NPP, Hon. Frederick Kofi Ameyaw was of the view the NPP under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo has performed well and therefore the need to project his achievement for Ghanaians to know. Speaking at the launch of a Development Fund and dinner night by the Germany branch of the NPP on Saturday 1st October, 2022, Hon. Kofi Ameyaw indicated that it was time for both party members and communicators to rise up to the task and let the masses know about the unprecedented achievements of the party since 2017. He insisted the NPP remains the only political party that is development oriented and urged all to help to retain it in power to continue the many projects and programs initiated by government. "We cannot afford to loose the 2024 elections to the incompetent NDC so we need to work extra hard to ensure victory come 2024. The NPP has performed very well and I suggest every party member come on board to support the course. We must break the '8' and that comes with a lot more work," Hon. Kofi Ameyaw told the gathering. He again urged Ghanaians to trust the Akufo-Addo-led government as the NPP has proven to be the only party that thinks about the welfare and well-being of Ghanaians. He also urged party members within the diaspora to remain determined and committed to suppport the party in its quest to retain power either through finances or logistics. The NPP communicator, however, called for unity among party members in order to achieve the break the '8' agenda. Assin North lawmaker and Presidential hopeful for the NPP, Hon. Kennedy Agyapong and Hon. Joe Ghartey, MP for Essikado Ketan and also a Presidential hopeful were Co-Chairmen for the occassion. Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI, Omanhene of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area 03.10.2022 LISTEN Omanhene of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area, Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI has called on law enforcement agencies to impose tougher punishment on encroachers on Gomoa lands before it becomes a security issue. According to Omanhene, if immediate action is not taken, it may lead to communal clashes. He has therefore called on the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central Hon Naana Eyiah and the DCE Hon Benjamin Kojo Otoo and Minister for National Security to as matter of urgency take immediate action to stop people or groups of people encroaching on Gomoa lands. Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI said this at the Annual Celebration of Stool Purification (Eguantodo) ceremony at Gomoa Ajumako in the Gomoa West District last Tuesday. He specifically mentioned the Effutu Municipal Assembly which he said was operating beyond its boundaries. "If care is not taken, we (Gomoa people) may be compelled to protect our lands by any means necessary, because we won't allow 'foreigners' to take over the lands our forefathers fought for us with their blood just to be taken away from us. "We have every document covering all the lands in Gomoa and have submitted same to the Lands Commission at Cape Coast to authenticate our claims," he stated. Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI expressed concern over a recent demolition of over 20 structures including homes undertaken by the Effutu Municipal Assembly at a location that falls within the jurisdiction of the Gomoa Central District Assembly. "We are patiently waiting for the Regional Minister Hon Mrs Justina Marigold Assan to tell us something that may solve the issues at hand." The Gomoa Ajumako Omanhene used the occasion to call on Ghanaians to cherish their culture and tradition adding that "our present woes were mostly from the adoption of foreign cultures which are alien to the black race. "We are Africans and for that matter have our own Culture and Traditions which we ought to cherish it. It is sad Africans recognize foreign culture leading to indiscipline among the youth. "Our forefathers through our culture and Traditions thought us to live peacefully with one another, but today even some Church members have grudges among themselves. "Our culture and traditions are not fetish as people blindly want everybody to believe. It is a God-sent to the black race. We shouldn't forget our culture and Traditions. "I want to call on Nananom to sensitize their people on the need for them to sustain and practice our culture and traditions as our way of life as Ghanaians. The food we eat, our kind of dresses and actions should portray to the world the beauty of Ghanaian culture," he noted. The Gomoa Ajumako Omanhene urged Nananom, Assembly Members and stakeholders to assist with the implementation of bye-laws on education to reduce the rather high level of teenage pregnancies in Gomoa. He cautioned Nananom against involvement of children in any of their planned programmes and activities for any festivities especially during school hours threatening to sanction any chief caught engaging in such activities. "As for our deplorable roads, the least said about it the better because Government is virtually refusing to listen to our plight of hardships commuters who ply the roads to make ends meet," he lamented. Concerning the boundary impasse between the Effutu and Gomoa, the DCE to Gomoa Central Hon Benjamin Kojo Otoo told Nananom, the Central Regional Minister, Hon Mrs Justina Marigold Assan has taken over the case and has accordingly set up a committee to find a lasting solution to the case adding that the Gomoa Central District Assembly has submitted relevant documents to the Regional Minister. "Nananom, as I speak the Effutu Municipal Assembly is yet to submit a single document to back their claim. It is unfortunate." The Gomoa Central DCE expressed concern how the Effutu Municipal Assembly penetrated lands under the jurisdiction of the Gomoa Central District Assembly. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. 03.10.2022 LISTEN The Agona East Constituency Chairman of the Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Francis Kobina Baidoo has stated emphatically that there would not be any better time for his party to win any general elections in the country than 2024. "Why am I saying that. Ghanaians are fed up with the abyssal performance of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo-led NPP government over the past six years. The economic mismanagement, corruption, high rate of youth unemployment among others has become a nightmare for Ghanaians. "It is clear evidence that we sold our colour television for black and white because Ghanaians have really seen the difference between the NDC and NPP in terms of good governance," he stated. Mr. Francis Baidoo was addressing Branch Executives of the party at the Constituency office at Agona Nsaba soon after submitting his nomination forms to contest the forthcoming Constituency Elections to maintain his position as Constituency Chairman. He called for all hands-on deck adding that with unity, hard work and perseverance for the tasks ahead, the NDC will form the next government. "The NDC has better records in terms of good governance, infrastructure development, fight against corruption, poverty alleviation and provision of social amenities that improve economic growth and development. "This is what Ghanaians are waiting for, we shouldn't disappoint them because they have banked their hope in the party," he stressed. Recounting his stewardship over the past four years, Mr. Francis Baidoo noted that he has performed creditably thus making the NDC more attractive to the people in the Agona East Constituency than it used to be before he assumed office as Constituency Chairman. "I have gone through the process of filling the nomination forms. I had overwhelming endorsement from Branch Executives. Everybody wanted to endorse my forms for my second coming because they have seen my commitment and dedication to the NDC in the Agona East Constituency. "I want to plead to other contestants in the race to emulate my humility and carry out a clean campaign devoid of insults and personal attacks. We are one big family. We should bear in mind that NDC is bigger than any individual in the party. "I have twenty-three (23) formidable team to take the party to the next level in the Constituency. It is an open secret that Team Baidoo will perform better to raise the bar of quality leadership. "My dynamic team include Mr Ernest Sena Amable contesting for Secretary position, Mr. John Kuma Agbobli as Constituency Organizer, Madam Adiza Adams as Women's Organizer, Mr. Evans Ayivi as Youth Organizer and Mr. Justice Quarm as Constituency Communication Officer among the others. "We are solidly on the grounds and will become the next Agona East Constituency Executives for the NDC," Mr. Baidoo noted. In a related development, over 46 people have filled their nomination forms to contest various positions in the constituency. They have subsequently been vetted by the Constituency Vetting Committee. On Saturday, 24th September 2022, some NDC bigwigs from Ghana met the leadership and membership of the UK & Ireland chapter of the National Democratic congress. In attendance to grace the occasion were the Deputy General Secretary , Lawyer Barbara Asamoah and MP for Salaga South, Hon. Zuweira Mohammed Ibrahimah. The MCs for the occasion, comrade Alhaji Awudu Sannie, Deputy NDC UK/Ireland chapter secretary and the chapter organizer, comrade Adamu Musah in a charged atmosphere, led members present in singing the partys anthem and paying tributes to fallen comrades in the 2020 general election in Techiman South and other parts of Ghana due to the mayhem caused by the NPP vigilante groups. In his speech, the NDC UK & Ireland Chapter Chairman, Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba hinted at some of the challenges the current executives encountered when they took up the leadership mantle. Citing COVID 19 as one of the primary global issues that impeded the activities of the chapter in the run up to election 2020, Chairman Mbalba added that the chapter managed to inaugurate branches in Reading & Berkshire, East London, Telford, Scotland and Republic of Ireland in spite of all the difficulties. He further stated that West London, Swindon and Hampshire/Surrey and Leeds/Bradford branches just to mention but a few are also in the pipeline and very soon will be inaugurated. Again, with the welfare of members being one of the core tenets of the chapter, chairman Mbalba highlighted some proactive measures that were institutionalised to ensure members who were confined in their homes received some support. He further intimated that the leadership is not resting on their oarse but rather extending their tentacles to propagate the good message of former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama and the NDC in every nook and cranny of the United Kingdom. He further conveyed to all present, a directive from Accra in relation to the upcoming branch election and the need for all contestants to treat each other with the uttermost respect. This according to chairman Mbalba will reduce the time needed for healing after the internal election and make the peaceful resolution of election disputes easier and faster. In summing up his speech, Chairman Mbalba, encouraged members present to acquire the Ghana card as it will be needed during the registration process for election 2024. He urged members to leave no stone unturned until victory is won in 2024. He stressed the need for the party to eliminate any form of complacency but rather continue to work hard as the wind of change in election 2024 could be felt even for those in the diaspora. The MP for Salaga South, Hon. Zuweira Mohammed Ibrahim in her address first congratulated all members of the UK & Ireland Chapter for still believing and staying loyal to the ideals and principles of the party despite all the setbacks in election 2020. Indeed, there were major events according to Hon. Zuweira, that obviously compelled the party to revisit its approach going into any future election but former President John Mahama, in one of his submissions, made reference to the party not going back to the court to seek redress on any electioneering dispute due to the polarised and partisan nature of the current judicial system under the ruling NPP. This implied that a thorough feasibility study must be carried out in terms of the availability of logistics and skilled labour to take responsibility for some of the technicalities at the polling stations and coalition centre during the vote counting and certification. It is in view of this, coupled with the hardship Ghanaians are going through, that she made a humble plea to all and sundry within the rank and file of the party to come on board to contribute their widows mite both in cash and kind in order to propel the party to victory in election 2024. She however encouraged all party faithfuls to be actively involved in registering their families for the Ghana Card within the UK especially with the possibility of ROPA taking effect in 2024. Ghanaians and the NDC according to Hon. Zuweira must see election 2024 as a rescue mission that posterity wouldnt "forgive us if we fail." She stated that Ghana has nowhere to turn to other than the NDC and that is why it's imperative "we learn to forgive quickly especially during our internal elections so we can unify our front since the actual enemy awaits us in 2024." The Deputy General Secretary for the party, Lawyer Barbara Asamoah was thankful to the chapter leadership for such a warm reception and praised the executives for being resolute in committing their time and serving the party diligently. She highlighted the good contributions from the chapter going into election 2020 and how the chapter leadership has meticulously coordinated affairs of the chapter to the admiration of other national executives. Lawyer Barbara Asamoah quickly added that despite all the efforts and commitments, the NDC as a party is still in opposition, meaning the job is not done yet hence the need to continue being consistent in the pursuit of victory in election 2024. Touching on the abysmal performance of the Akufo-Addo-led administration, Lawyer Asamoah expressed serious concerns about the current poverty index of Ghana and the undulating prices of commodities due to the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi and excessive borrowing. She said as a party, the NDC has on several occasions made concrete recommendations to the NPP on how best to manage the economy through its MPs in Parliament but as faith may have it, the Akufo-Addos led administration has rejected all good counsel as well as constructive criticism and rather hold on to politics of deception and self-proclamation as financial connoisseur despite all the hardships bestowed on the average Ghanaian. Touching on the high level of insecurity in the country, Lawyer Asamoah stressed how there was never a day without issues on robbery or vigilantes using party colours of the NPP to victimize the innocent Ghanaians. She observed that issues about galamsey and how it is destroying water bodies are best left unresolved especially when government players 'rob Peter to pay Paul' by preaching virtue but practicing vice. She added that all these are salient issues not only making the government of the day unpopular but rather making Ghanaians miss the leadership of the NDC and former President John Dramani Mahama. Lawyer Asamoah enumerated some structures put in place within the NDC to ensure events in the Ashanti region does not repeat themselves in future electioneering process. Changing of figures on pick sheets, padding of results and victimizing polling agents in some polling stations across the country were observed by several party agents in the Ashanti. The party has therefore taken steps to ensure all polling agents are well protected to discharge their duties freely without any form of intimidation or fear. In conclusion, the main Speaker for the event, Lawyer Barbara Asamoah, advised all members never to underrate the extent that their contribution could go into pushing the party back to power in 2024. She said all ideas are welcome, and members must also be available to take up party duties and responsibilities for the greater good of Ghana. According to Lawyer Asamoah, election 2024 is very promising but it's too early to call the shots as the Ghanaian political terrain has changed in the last few elections hence, "we should be more focused to the very end." Lawyer Barbara Asamoah's speech was followed by an open forum led by the Chapter Secretary comrade Michael Dzidula Kudiabor. All questions were well answered by the guest speakers and the Chapter Leadership to the admiration of everyone gathered for the occasion. The deputy chapter Women Organizer, Madam Rebecca Anoon gave the vote of thanks to extend the appreciation of the chapter leadership to everyone who travelled from far and near to see to the success of the programme especially the invited guest from the party head office. BY Dr Tabbi Wilberforce Communication Officer Glasgow Branch We live in a world characterised by inequality , poverty , economic volatility, globalisation, climate change and ambiguity. In my own country, South Africa, residents have to navigate socioeconomic and political instability , power and water cuts, homelessness , unethical governance and mediocre or no service delivery. It is a far cry from what the country could be if we brought its best talent and resources to bear for the benefit of humanity. Innovation will be key to any positive changes and research-intensive universities have a central to play in that innovation. As the University of the Witwatersrand (or Wits, as it's commonly known) turns 100, my colleagues and I have been thinking a great deal about the inventions and breakthroughs that have emerged from the university in the past 100 years and what is coming next . Great innovations have emerged from the work done by Wits researchers that have shifted the dial in sectors ranging from health to computing to quantum and nuclear physics. These rich seams of knowledge continue to inform policy and daily decisions and are the foundation of cutting edge research the institution continues to produce. 100 years of changes On 1 September 1939, Adolf Hitler invaded Poland . World War 2 was underway. Barely three months later, the first radar set was tested on Wits University's campus. Britain and its allies were looking for a way to detect enemy aircraft and ships. A group of scientists among them Sir Basil Schonland, Director of the Bernard Price Institute of Geophysical Research and another Wits engineer, Professor Guerino Bozzoli came together to harness the power of radio waves. An aerial view of the university's Milner Park campus, 1930. Wits University Almost a century on, the science of sensors has taken several quantum leaps. Professor Andrew Forbes and his team at Wits are encrypting, transmitting, and decoding data quickly and securely through light beams. He has just secured R54 million for the Wits Quantum Initiative which explores theoretical and experimental quantum science and engineering, secure communications, enhanced quantum-inspired imaging, novel nano and quantum-based sensors and devices. The university has also come a long way on its computing journey. In 1960 it was the first university in South Africa to own an IBM mainframe computer . Today, in partnership with IBM, we're the first African university to access a quantum computer . Read more: New research proves the long-held theory that lasers can create fractals As the Chair of the National Quantum Computing Working Group in South Africa, this is an area where I see immense potential for Africa. Classical computing has served society incredibly well. It gave us the Internet and cashless commerce. It sent humans to the moon, put robots on Mars and smartphones in our pockets. But many of the world's biggest mysteries and potentially greatest opportunities remain beyond the grasp of classical computers. To continue the pace of progress, we need to augment the classical approach with a completely new paradigm, one that follows its own set of rules - quantum computing . This radically new way of performing computer calculations is exponentially faster than any classical computer. It can run new algorithms to solve previously unsolvable problems in optimisation, chemistry and machine learning, and its applications are far-reaching from physics to healthcare. Innovative healthcare is sorely needed across the African continent. Here, too, Wits has been able to play a vital role in the research, teaching and learning, clinical, social and advocacy spheres. It was the first university to lead COVID-19 vaccination trials in South Africa. Our researchers also developed technology to improve the accurate testing for tuberculosis . And the Pelebox , an invention to cut down the time that patients spend waiting for medication in hospitals. Elsewhere in the institution, researchers have connected the brain to the internet , used brainwaves to control a robotic prosthetic hand and developed an affordable 3D printed bionic hand . Difficult questions Research intensive universities in South Africa need to ask the difficult questions about their role in a changing society. How do we serve as a catalyst for social change? How do we best use our intellectual dynamism and work with the public and private sectors to effect positive change? How do we create new, relevant knowledge and translate it into innovation? How do we best develop critical thinkers, innovators, creators and the high-level skills required to advance our economy, and the future world of work? How do we quantify our social impact and ensure that it is contextually attuned? How do we influence policy change? These questions are at the heart of the university's strategy today. And they're no doubt being considered across the higher education sector as universities work to harness their collective talent and the resources at their disposal to craft a new future and transform society for the benefit of all humanity. Zeblon Vilakazi 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 Zeblon Vilakazi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, University of the Witwatersrand Professor Ransford Gyampo, a Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana is urging the Electoral Commission to dialogue with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) on the use of the Ghana card as the source document for voter registration. The NDC has vehemently opposed the use of the Ghana card saying many voters will be disenfranchised. It is on the back of this that the University of Ghana Professor thinks it will be advisable for the Electoral Commission to make room for the suggestions from the NDC. The current mode of identification for registering to vote include a passport, a national ID, an existing voter ID or two guarantors. The EC is seeking to review the law to replace these documents with the Ghana Card using a draft C.I. titled: Public Regulations 2021 which is expected to regulate the upcoming continuous voter registration exercise. The new Constitutional Instrument that could enforce this change is in Parliament and has been referred to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee of Parliament. The NDC is worried because not all Ghanaians of voting age have the Ghana Card. By Citi Newsroom 02.10.2022 LISTEN Mr Francis Baidoo, an incumbent Agona East Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and 22 others vying for various positions in the party have filed their nominations to contest in the upcoming elections. Mr Baidoo told the media that the NDC was sure of winning the 2024 elections since many Ghanaians were fed up with the New patriotic Party-led government over economic hardships. Their hope is for the NDC to come to power to liberate them from the suffering, he said. Mr Baidoo said the NDC had learnt great lessons from its mistakes in the 2020 elections and would not repeat same in 2024. He said the ward executives of the party, who formed the delegates in the Agona East Constituency, have tried and tested him, and they believed he could champion the course of the NDC to achieve its aims and objectives. Mr Baidoo said his decision to contest the constituency chairmanship again was to continue with his good works, which saw a win for the NDC in the parliamentary elections and urged the delegates to vote massively for him. He said a united front was key to winning the 2024 elections, without which it would be extremely difficult to defeat the NPP. He admonished the aspiring candidates to desist from abusive language in their campaign to sustain the peace during and after the elections. GNA The Weija-Gbawe Chiefs, Assembly Members and residents have appealed to President Akufo-Addo to ensure that the necessary business operating licenses are granted to the Empire Cement Factory in the Weija-Gbawe Municipality of the Greater Accra Ghana. Speaking at a press conference, Mr. Kwaku Danso, President of the Residents Association in South West McCarthy Hill, underscored the need for the President's intervention. Speaking to the media in the presence of the chiefs and residents, Mr. Danso said they were of the firm belief that there are clear evidences that some self-seeking individuals in the area are sabotaging the factory. According to the Assembly Member of New Gbawe, Hon. Andrew Oppong Amoako, the management of the company in their consultation had told them it has finished the construction of the factory for the past two years and awaiting the permit to start full operations. Nii Laryea, the Jaasefio of Gbawe, minced no words in calling for a swift action from government. He said the teeming youth are at their wits end wondering why such an employment opportunity should be left to go waste. The traditional authorities, residents and the youth clad in red bands and holding placards, appealed to the government and Weija-Gbawe Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Patrick Kwasi Brako Kumor to commission the factory. They stated that the operation of the factory would directly and indirectly employ thirteen thousand (13,000) workers. Empire Cement Factory is under the One District One Factory (1D1F) flagship programme of the government. The government is set to announce a new price for cocoa early next week at the opening day of the crop season, as the committee working on the new pricing is yet to conclude its work. Cocoa farmers in the country have since been urged to help in governments fight against illegal mining by desisting from selling farm lands to illegal miners, popularly known as galamseyers. According to stakeholders in the sector, the practice if not checked can wipe away all the gains by the cocoa sector. The government raised concerns about the continuous sale of farmlands, especially cocoa plantations, to illegal miners. It has become evidently clear that majority of farmers in cocoa-growing areas in the country are now selling off cocoa plantations to illegal miners, who are causing destruction to lands and water bodies. Speaking at the climax of a 4-day cocoa exhibition in Suhum to mark cocoa day celebrations, the Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong noted that the sale of cocoa lands to illegal miners if not checked has a potential of collapsing the cocoa sector. Delivering an address on behalf of the President of the Cocoa and Coffee Farmers Association, Alhaji Abubakari Alhassan appealed to government to intensify the galamsey fight to save the sector. The Board Chairman of Cocobod, Mr Peter Mark Manu delivering his address disclosed that the implementation of the much-awaited Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme will begin this month. He then called on cocoa farmers to desist from using children as labourers on cocoa farms and stop the sale of cocoa plantations to illegal miners. This years celebration which has coincided with COCOBOD's 75th anniversary and as such Okyehene Amoatia Ofori Panyin the Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa who was the chairman at the event called for realignment of interest of Ghanas interest in the cocoa sector by paying attention to the interest of the cocoa farmer. The Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, speaking on behalf of his boss Dr. Afriyie Akoto called on cocoa farmers to exercise restraint as government works to announce new cocoa prices early next week. 03.10.2022 LISTEN Report indicates that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Produce Buying Company (PBC), Richard Akuoko Adiyah, has passed on. The former Financial Controller of GIHOC Distilleries Company Ltd was reportedly found dead in his chair. According to a report carried by Myjoyonline sighted by DGN Online Mr Adiyah on Friday, September 29, 2022 indicates that he slumped in his chair. He was the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ahafo Ano North on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party between 2008 to 2012. Mr Adiyah also worked as Chief Finance Officer (CFO) at United Nations Observers Mission in Georgia (UNOMIG). He again served as the in charge of Budget and Finance at the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Geneva, Switzerland, and the Finance Officer, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), New York, USA. ---DGN online Environment ministers from about 50 countries will gather in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday for a "pre-COP27" climate summit, with rich nations likely to come under pressure to raise spending to combat climate change. The talks in the DRC's capital, Kinshasa, are informal but meant to allow various countries and green groups to take stock of political positions ahead of COP27 -- the United Nations climate gathering of world leaders in Egypt next month. An opening ceremony will take place in the Congolese parliament building in Kinshasa, followed by discussions on mitigating climate change, and providing funding for countries already damaged by global heating and severe weather events. Delegates from about 50 countries are expected to attend the talks, including United States climate envoy John Kerry. Devastating floods hit northeast Nigeria in September 2022. By Radeno Haniel (AFP) "The emphasis will certainly be on support from industrialised countries to countries in the south," a Western diplomat recently told AFP. The last UN climate summit, COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021, reaffirmed the goal -- agreed in Paris in 2015 -- of limiting the rise in the Earth's average temperature to well below 2.0 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5C. That goal may already be beyond reach as the Earth's temperature is already 1.2C higher than before the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century. Poorer countries had pushed at Glasgow for a financial mechanism to address losses and damage caused by climate change. But wealthier nations -- the largest polluters -- rejected the call and the participants agreed instead to start a "dialogue" on financial compensation for damages. Climate justice A climate banner in Kinshasa accusing the international community of 'hypocrisy'. By Arsene Mpiana (AFP) Egypt, which is hosting COP27, has made implementing the pledge to curb global heating the priority of the November summit. Poorer countries are again likely to remind their richer counterparts of the need to increase financial support. The latter have so far failed to deliver on their promise to provide $100 billion a year to help developing countries limit climate change. Demands for climate justice were front and centre of a protest in Kinshasa last month, where young Congolese activists chanted slogans and demanded that world leaders take swift action rather than repeat old promises. The Congolese government is also expected drive home the message that it requires funding to protect its vast rainforests, which act as a carbon sink. Africa's rainforests suck up billions of tonnes of climate-heating carbon. By Peter MARTELL (AFP) Around 30 billion tonnes of carbon are stored across the Congo Basin, researchers estimated in a study for Nature in 2016. The figure is roughly equivalent to three years of global emissions. However, the central African nation in July launched an auction for 30 oil and gas blocs, ignoring warnings from environmentalists that exploiting them could harm ecosystems and release vast amounts of heat-trapping gases. One of the poorest countries in the world, the DRC argues that drilling for oil and gas could help diversify its economy and benefit the Congolese people. Some local cocoa and livestock farmers at Datano, a farming community at Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region of Ghana have expressed their appreciation to the Rainforest Alliance for building their capacities and helping them to achieve maximum yields and higher incomes from their agricultural businesses. In separate interviews, Mr. Isaac Kwadwo Owusu, a cocoa farmer and Madam Doris Asampong a pig and vegetable farmer both explained that they have become better managers of their farms after receiving training and other technical guidance from Rainforest Alliance and its partners. They made the disclosure when the Board of Directors and Leadership Team of Rainforest Alliance paid a working visit to the Western North Region to interact with the beneficiary farmers and community leaders on the impact of the projects and programs of the organization on the lives of people in the Sui River Landscape. The Rainforest Alliance is an International Non-profit organization working to create a world where people and nature thrive together using social and market forces to protect nature and improve the lives of farmers and forest communities. Mr. Isaac Owusu who is the President of the Youth in Cocoa Farming in the area revealed that the organization in some four years ago, has introduced him and many other farmers to climate smart agriculture which has helped his farm to record unprecedented improvement in yields and profit margins. The organization, he indicated also supported him and other farmers to register all the trees within their farms in their names with the Forestry Commission in order to own the trees as an added profit aside their cocoa farms. He added that Rainforest Alliance has also empowered many of cocoa farmers to go into pig, bee and snail farming to maximize their profits. On her part, Madam Doris Asampong, noted that she developed the interest to go into pig farming following the advocacy, training and resources she received from the Rainforest Alliance to start the business. She explained further that even though pig farming is predominantly a male-dominated activity in the area, she decided to take on the challenge of rearing pigs after she was exposed to the commercial viability of the business through Rainforest Alliances training program and other logistic support to her and other farmers. On their part, both the Chief Executive Officer of Rainforest Alliance Mr. Santiago Gowland and the Country Director Mr. Kwame Osei expressed appreciation to the farmers for strictly adhering to the requirements of their training and being good ambassadors of the organization. They admonished them to continue to guard against practices that will harm the environment or degrade the forest. Since 2017, the Rainforest Alliance and its partners have been working in the Sui River Landscape which covers four districts, Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Sefwi Wiawso, Akontombra and Bodi districts in the Western North region of Ghana. The various interventions in the area including the establishment of Land Management Boards (LMBs) seek to complement the efforts of the state to among other things, govern the natural resources in the forest corridors of the area. The organization is also implementing several projects and programs in the area including the Landscapes and Environmental Agility Across the Nation (LEAN) project which is being implemented in collaboration with Tropenbos Ghana, Ecocare Ghana and World Vision Ghana with funding from the European Union (EU). Through the implementation of this project, over 4,000 farmers have been trained on Climate Smart Agriculture in 60 communities to increase farm productivity and efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and increase smallholder farmers capacity to adapt to climate change. Other projects being implemented by Rainforest Alliance Ghana in the Sui River Landscape include the Climate Smart Cocoa project which has so far raised and distributed over 275,000 indigenous tree seedlings to over 3,600 farmers and other partner institutions to help in restoring over 2,000 hectares of degraded land and the Jurisdictional Data Project which is also so far, conducting an analysis of the data gaps and capacity needs of the landscape to meet the information and data requirements to participate and report under the Land Scale. Burkina Faso's junta leader, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, agreed to step down on Sunday, religious and community leaders have said, two days after army officers announced his ouster in a coup that sparked internal unrest and international condemnation. Lieutenant-Colonel Damiba "offered his resignation in order to avoid confrontations with serious human and material consequences", the religious and community leaders said in a statement. The move followed mediation between Damiba and the new self-proclaimed leader, Ibrahim Traore, by religious and community leaders. Regional diplomatic sources said Damiba -- who himself took power in a January putsch -- had fled to Togo's capital Lome on Sunday following Burkina Faso's second coup this year. Traore claims to have the support of army chiefs for his plans to "reinvigorate" the anti-jihadist struggle. In a statement Sunday, the West African regional bloc ECOWAS welcomed the fact that the various players in the Burkinabe drama had accepted "a peaceful settlement of their differences". An ECOWAS delegation is to visit Ouagadougou on Monday. Damiba set "seven conditions" for stepping down, the religious and community leaders said. These included security guarantees for himself and his allies in the military; Damiba also insisted that the pledge he had given to West Africa's regional bloc for a return to civilian rule within two years be respected. Traore, who is 34, appears to have accepted the conditions and called for calm. Curfew, border closures lifted The overnight curfew imposed on Friday has been lifted and the country's borders have reopened. On Saturday, Damiba had said he had no intention of giving up power, urging the rebel officers to "come to their senses" against a backdrop of street protests. However, a statement issued on Sunday by rebel soldiers said Ibrahim Traore would remain in charge "until the swearing-in of the president of Burkina Faso designated by the nation's active forces", at an unspecified date. The rebel officers had accused Damiba of having taken refuge at a military base run by former colonial power France to plot a "counter-offensive", charges he and France have denied. Destabilising jihadist insurgency Damiba came to power in the nation of 16 million people in a January coup, accusing elected president Roch Marc Christian Kabore of failing to defeat jihadist fighters. The islamist insurgency continues, and more than 40 percent of Burkina Faso remains outside government control. Thousands have died and about two million have been displaced by the fighting since 2015, when the insurgency spread to Burkina Faso from neighbouring Mali. The rebel officers said it was Damiba's failure to quell the jihadist attacks that had prompted them to act. Friday's events sparked a wave of international criticism, including from the United States, the African Union, the European Union and ECOWAS. "Burkina Faso needs peace, stability and unity to fight terrorist groups and criminal networks operating in parts of the country," said a statement by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. The ranking member on Communications Committee of Parliament, Sam George says he has discovered massive fraud at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). According to the lawmaker for Ningo-Prampram Constituency in the Greater Accra Region, the rot at the power distribution company is sickening. This follows the struggle by some Ghanaians to buy credit for their prepaid meters as a result of shut down of ECG prepayment system which has left many customers nationwide stranded and in darkness for days as they were unable to purchase credits. In addition to that the power app was said to have been shut down as every customer have to troop to the ECG main offices in an attempt to purchase ctedit. In a statement, ECG said it has resolved all issue with the third party vending points. The power distribution company stated all stakeholders, especially our cherished customers on our prepayment metering system that the issue with the 3rd party vending points has been resolved. Customers can now purchase Electricity credits from their nearest vending points, and all ECG District offices, including tomorrow, Sunday, 2nd October, 2022, from 9:00am 4:00 pm. ECG stressed further that it is working assiduously to restore the Power App for an improved and seamless service provision. But in a Facebook post on Sunday October 2, 2022, sighted by DGN Online, Sam George is calling for immediate investigation into the situation. According to him, The rot at ECG would make you sick if you truly love this country and it is not about politicians here. It is Ghanaian citizens taking advantage of the citizens. We demand swift and immediate action. The challenges with the ECG are extremely serious. He alleged that The attack on their system was not external but carried out by a cabal of 'criminals' within the very same organization, calling on the government must as a matter of urgency commence a forensic investigation of the IT department of ECG. The MP further alleged that My information points to a group that has been siphoning over GHC 200 million every month! Yes you read that right. What we are witnessing is internal power play to cripple the new MD who has dared to open an investigation into these matters. He has therefore urged the Ghanaian security apparatus to investigate the matter. However, DGN Online cannot independently verify the allegations made by Sam George as efforts to speak to management proved futile. ---DGN Online Members of the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana have expressed worry over the lack of street lights on major highways across the country. The drivers said although they applaud the government for the construction of roads across the country, roads without streetlights are nothing but disasters. The drivers in a statement noted that if the streets do not have proper illumination, driving at night becomes a challenge for motorists and pedestrians especially when you are not familiar with the road it is easy to get stuck in a pothole or hit another car. The drivers say tax payers pay for street lights to be fixed and maintained but authorities responsible keep ignoring their obligation. Should your car develop a fault on these dark streets, you will easily be attacked by thieves unknowingly because the streets are dark, they said. Apart from the street lights, the drivers also want all potholes on various highways fixed as soon as possible. Deep potholes they said cause damage to essential parts of their vehicles and also causes drivers to lose control of their cars, leading to unwanted road crashes with its concomitant injuries. The drivers said these are worrying situations which must be attended to, to prevent accidents as we gear towards the Christmas festivities. Source: Classfmonline.com French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti will have to stand trial in a conflict of interest case that has been an embarrassment for President Emmanuel Macron's government, his lawyers said Monday, adding they had immediately appealed the move to bring the minister to court. Dupond-Moretti was last year charged with abusing his position as minister to settle scores with legal opponents. He became the first sitting French justice minister to be charged in a legal probe. The minister was in the overseas territory of French Guyana at the weekend, and was represented by his legal team at the Monday morning hearing before the Republican Court of Justice (CJR). Dupond-Moretti's lawyers immediately appealed against the decision, saying their action effectively quashed the decision to send the minister for trial. "The decision no longer exists," said the minister's team, announcing that they had appealed to the French supreme court to set the call for a trial aside. Dupond-Moretti's representatives claim it is now up to the highest court in the land to consider the case, notably the numerous irregularities in the allegations against their client. The minister's lawyers claim, among other discrepancies, that the chief prosecutor at the supreme court, Francois Molins, has shown a consistently biased attitude which is unfavourable to their client. Minister accused of witch-hunting Eric Dupond-Moretti is himself a former barrister. He was chosen as Justice Minister by President Macron in mid-2020, and then confirmed in the post following Macron's re-election earlier this year. The Republican Court of Justice, the only body with the power to investigate active members of the government, opened a file on Dupond-Moretti in 2021. He is suspected of abuse of power, specifically of using his influence as justice minister to settle scores with magistrates with whom he clashed during his career as a practising lawyer. In one case, the judges' anti-corruption association, Anticor, alleges that Dupond-Moretti ordered the internal investigation of three magistrates working for the Financial Crimes Court. The three were responsible for revelations concerning the telephone records of former President Nicolas Sarkozy in a corruption case. They wished to identify the justice insider who warned Sarkozy that his phone lines were under police scrutiny. Two of the three judges were heard last month by the professional oversight body, the Senior Magistrates Council. A decision will be announced later this month, but the council has not called for any punishment against the pair. The claim against the third judge was dropped by the investigators at any earlier stage. In a separate series of allegations, Dupond-Moretti is accused of launching an internal investigation of a French judge working in Monaco. The magistrate in question had ordered the arrest of a former client of the minister, provoking Dupond-Moretti to criticise what he called "cow-boy" methods. The Senior Magistrates Council last month said they had found no grounds to reproach the Monaco magistrate. Dupond-Moretti claims that he initiated neither investigation, and was simply following standard administrative procedure. 03.10.2022 LISTEN The convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Mr Ken Ashigbey, has patted the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor in the back for halting the operations of Akonta Mining Company. He said the Minister must be commended for his forthrightness in halting the activities Akonta Mining Limited. Akonta Mining Limited belonging to the Ashanti regional chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has been stopped from mining in the Tano Nimiri forest reserve. The stop order was contained in a statement issued by the minister on Friday, 30 September 2020. The ministry said it has taken note of publications about certain operations by Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Amenfi West municipality in the Western Region. It said even though Akonta Mining Limited has a mining lease to undertake mining operations in some parts of Samreboi, the company has no mineral right to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. Mr Ashigbey believes that the Ministers directives for the owners of Akonta Mining Limited to halt operations are apt. According to him, records at the register of companies have it that the mining company is owned by two individuals namely Mr Bernard Antwi Boasiako and one Antwi. "Mr Bernard Antwi Boasiako is politically exposed and for the sector Minister to direct him to stop operations is a step in the fight against Galamsey in the country," he said. Mr Ashigbey gave the Lands and Natural Resources Minister this commendation while speaking in an interview with Odeshyeba Kweku Essuman, the sit-in host of the Ghana Yensom morning show on Accra 100.5 FM on Monday, October 3, 2022. He said the directive will send a strong signal to all those who are politically exposed and are engaged in illegal mining in the country. He minced no words to say the fight against galamsey would be successful if many of the people who are politically exposed were dealt with. He went ahead to suggest to the Attorney General to take steps further to have the people involved in Akonta Mining Limited's illegal mining activities prosecuted just like Aisha Huang. He said there are several people including chiefs and District Chief Executives complicit in illegal mining in the country. He noted that these are derailing efforts to bring illegal mining activities to a halt. Source: Classfmonline.com 03.10.2022 LISTEN In a country where the literacy rate is below 45%, a vibrant law student from Sierra Leone seeks to educate his compatriots about the law. In bridging what he called the gap between the law and the citizenry, Francis Turay, a young and vibrant student thats currently pursuing a degree in law at the University of Makeni, Sierra Leone, seeks to kick off his series titled Law and the People. He expressed his desire in teaching others, especially the common man, who on daily basis has constantly been a victim of breaking the law, of which he has no iota of knowledge on its existence and how it operates. This series, as he said, will be covering some basic aspects of the law, whereby he will be teaching people about their rights, responsibilities, and obligations owed as citizens in order for them not to fall short of certain offenses. Francis spoke about how the internet has built a massive learning and interactive space within these social media platforms, and if used properly, it will contribute massively towards the growth and development of a country. So, he will be using various social media outlets to reach out to his audience, and he shared his hope of working towards making this series to be aired on television. Conclusively, he emphasized people being educated about their basic human rights, as this has been an issue thats attracting the light of the day. Below are links to the platform for the series Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawandthepeople Twitter: https://twitter.com/lawandthepeopl3?s=21&t=sx0LhjEIF167szMD3_Dkig Written by Paul Seymour Swedish genetic historian Svante Paabo, who sequenced the genome of the Neanderthal and discovered Denisova, a previously unknown precursor of Homo sapiens, on Monday won the Nobel Medicine Prize, the first of this year's awards from the Swedish Academy. Svante Paabo is a paleogeneticist, someone who studies the distant past through the examination of preserved genetic material. "By revealing genetic differences that distinguish all living humans from extinct hominins, his discoveries provide the basis for exploring what makes us uniquely human", the Nobel committee said in a statement. Hominins are pre-human species that either died out or were eradicated by the parents of modern humans. Paabo, director of the department of genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in the German city of Leipzig, found that gene transfer had occurred from these now extinct hominins to Homo sapiens following the migration out of Africa around 70,000 years ago. "This ancient flow of genes to present-day humans has physiological relevance today, for example affecting how our immune system reacts to infections", the jury said. Covid-19 patients with a tiny amount of Neanderthal DNA run a higher risk of severe complications from the disease, Paabo reported in a 2020 study. Paabo takes home the award sum of 10 million Swedish kronor (901,500 euros), will receive the prize from King Carl Gustaf at a formal ceremony in Stockholm on 10 December, the anniversary of the 1896 death of scientist Alfred Nobel who created the prizes in his last will and testament. Last year, the Medicine Prize went to US pair David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for discoveries on receptors for temperature and touch, which have been used to develop treatments for a wide range of diseases and conditions, including chronic pain. The Nobel season continues this week with the announcement of the winners of the Physics Prize on Tuesday and the Chemistry Prize on Wednesday. Literature too tight to call They will be followed by the much-anticipated prizes for Literature on Thursday and Peace on Friday. US novelist Joyce Carol Oates, France's Annie Ernaux and Maryse Conde, Russia's Lyudmila Ulitskaya and Canada's Margaret Atwood have all been cited as potential literature laureates if the committee has its eyes on a woman. Online betting sites however have France's Michel Houellebecq as the favourite, ahead of British author Salman Rushdie, who was the victim of an attack in August. Among those cited as possible Peace Prize laureates are the International Criminal Court, tasked with investigating war crimes in Ukraine, jailed Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The Economics Prize winds things up on Monday, 10 October. Envoys from the West African bloc ECOWAS were heading to Burkina Faso on Monday after the jihadist-torn Sahel state underwent its second military coup in less than nine months. The streets of the capital Ouagadougou were quiet after a two-day showdown between military rivals jousting for power and a spurt of violent anti-French protests. The country's latest self-proclaimed leader is a 34-year-old captain, Ibrahim Traore, who seized the helm from Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, in power since January. Religious and community mediators said Damiba on Sunday had agreed to step down, two days after Traore declared he had been forced out. Regional diplomats said he had fled to Togo. ECOWAS -- the Economic Community of West African States -- issued a statement welcoming "a peaceful settlement of their differences" and announced it would dispatch a delegation to Ouagadougou on Monday. The team is headed by Guinea-Bissau Foreign Minister Suzi Carla Barbosa and includes former Niger president Mahamadou Issoufou, the bloc's mediator on Burkina Faso. Protest aftermath: The damaged entrance to the French embassy in Ouagadougou. By Olympia DE MAISMONT (AFP) Burkina is struggling with a seven-year-old jihadist campaign that has claimed thousands of lives, forced nearly two million people to flee their homes and left more than a third of the country outside government control. Anger within the army at failures to roll back the bloody insurgency prompted Damiba's coup against the elected president, Roch Marc Christian Kabore, on January 24. Appointing himself transitional president, Damiba vowed to make security the country's top priority -- but after a brief lull, attacks revived, claiming hundreds of lives. The mounting toll was cited by Traore as justification for the latest coup. Damiba on Sunday set "seven conditions" for stepping down, the religious and community leaders said. These included security guarantees for him and his allies in the military; and that the pledge he had given to ECOWAS for a return to civilian rule within two years be respected. Burkina Faso. By (AFP) Speaking on the French radio station RFI on Monday, Traore spelt out that he would uphold the July 2024 timeline for restoring civilian rule. This could even happen "before that date" if conditions were right, Traore said. He said that he would simply carry out "day-to-day business" until a new civilian or military transitional president was appointed. The appointment would be made by a national forum gathering political and social representatives, the pro-Traore faction in the military said on Sunday. Traore told RFI that this meeting would take place "well before the end of the year." Analysts said that his position, if maintained, would be likely to satisfy ECOWAS, which has suffered five coups in three of its 15 members since August 2020. Anti-French protests Burkina's latest bout of turmoil coincided with a surge of violent protests against France, the former colonial power and ally in Burkina's struggle against the jihadists. Pro-Traore officers accused Damiba of having taken refuge at a French military base in order to plot a "counter-offensive" -- charges he and France denied. On Sunday, security forces fired tear gas from inside the French embassy in Ouagadougou to disperse angry protesters, and the French Institute, which promotes French culture, was also attacked. The French foreign ministry said the attack was carried out by "hostile demonstrators manipulated by a disinformation campaign against us". Pro-Moscow: Demonstrators waving a Russian flag stand atop a UN peacekeepers' vehicle in Ouagadougou on Sunday. By - (AFP) Traore on Monday condemned what he called "acts of violence and vandalism" against those buildings and urged "calm and restraint." Damiba's claimed ouster on Friday was announced just hours after a protest rally that also demanded the end of France's military presence in the Sahel and closer military cooperation with Russia. Some of the protestors carried Russian flags. Russian paramilitaries are supporting regimes in Mali and Central African Republic -- sidelining France, those countries' traditional backer. But Russian troops have also been tarred with accusations of massacres and other abuses. On Monday, the Kremlin spokesman said Russia wanted the situation in Burkina "to normalise as soon as possible, for complete order to be ensured in the country and for a return to the framework of legitimacy as soon as possible." 03.10.2022 LISTEN The 10th edition of 'Ghana Walk for the Cure' was held at Tepa in the Ahafo Ano West district of the Ashanti region in a colourful display. The event held annually by Breast Care International (BCI) to raise campaign awareness about breast cancer was the first to be organized in a district since its inception in 2011. The international event, on the theme Breast Cancer Wont Rest, So Why Should We Rest was held on Saturday, October 1, 2022. The event was chaired by the Paramount Chief of Tepa Traditional Council, Nana Adusei Atwenewaa Ampem I, and supported by the Paramount Queenmother of Tepa Traditional Council, Nana Agyeiwaa Paamu II. It was participated by foreign nationals, diplomatic corps, security agencies, traditional rulers, civil societies, government officials and school children. The President of BCI, Dr Mrs Beatrice Wiafe Addai, addressing the crowd, waged war on the dreaded breast cancer disease. Dr Mrs Beatrice Wiafe Addai, who is also the CEO of Peace and Love hospitals, stated that more than 2,000 women died out of 4,600 cases of breast cancer recorded annually in Ghana. Declaring it a national disaster, she posited that the disease should be given the much needed attention just as COVID-19 that killed more than 1,400 persons in two years. If breast cancer is saying it wont rest, why should we rest? Everyone must support BCI as we wage war against the disease to protect our women, Ghana NCD Alliance chair urged. She was quick to add that the war can be won if breast cancer education is intensified in the rural areas where the disease is rampant. Dr Mrs Beatrice Wiafe Addai assured that the disease is preventable, treatable, curable and if reported to the hospital early, there is a high chance of survival. The Paramount Chief of Tepa Traditional Council, Nana Adusei Atwenewaa Ampem I, in his speech called for governments support for BCI as it wages war against breast cancer. As a national disaster, the paramount chief said it needs conscious efforts to save and reduce breast cancer deaths among women in Ghana. The Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Iamane Quaadi, expressed her happiness for being part of an international event that seeks the interests of women in Ghana and Africa. She pledged the Moroccan Embassy's support to Dr Mrs Wiafe Addai and her BCI team in the fight against breast cancer in Ghana. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II 03.10.2022 LISTEN The Asantehene of Asanteman, His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has stressed that the fight against illegal mining [galamsey] largely depends on the state institutions and not the chiefs. Speaking on illegal mining which continues to destroy the countrys land, forest, and river bodies, Otumfuo said there is little Chiefs can do about illegal mining because they do not have the power to give concessions. The concession is given by the authorities in Accra, the chiefs dont give concessions so there is little they can do about it. The chiefs will be there and people will bring documents saying theyve been given permission to mine. Who consulted the chief for him to even supervise the activity? The constitution says the minerals is being held in trust for the people by the President. So chiefs cannot do much about it, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II said while engaging the US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, when she paid a courtesy call on him. In recent times, Chiefs in illegal mining communities have been accused of being complicit in the destruction of forest and river bodies. Others have solely blamed the President, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for not showing leadership to deal with the canker. While the fight against galamsey continues, President Akufo-Addo has been urged to go by his promise and put his presidency on the line to fight galamsey. I bring you, Hon Samuel A. Jinapor, greetings from my hideout in Laribanga mountains. I trust you and your family are keeping safe after that unfortunate fire outbreak at your residence in Accra. Do have my sympathies. This morning, I woke up to very disturbing headlines and conversations around galamsey with some of the media houses labeling and attaching you to the menace. Well, who am I to question their judgement? In view all these, I wish to ask you these harmless questions: 1. Mr Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, how come that under you, we have had to painfully watch the sale of West Hospital lands in Tamale? Even with the follow up discussions and plea from key stakeholders like the MPs in Tamale, to leave the lands for the hospital, we still see private developers busily working on the lands. 2. Mr Minister, how come that under you and with all the big grammar and attempt to pull former President Mahama into the conversation, there was evidence to show that indeed, Sir John bought lands in both Achimota Forest and the Sakumomo Ramsar site? Although you attempted to use the Lands commission to cover up, nobody can attach land demarcations and plot numbers to land they dont own or know nothing about. 3. The Otumfour Osei Tutu is, in the second time, have a contrary position to yours, Mr Minister, on this issue of galamsey. If you have nothing to hide, how come, you went to plead with the Otumfour not to speak extempore or even read his own speech but read your prepared speech in the wake of the regional consultative dialogue you organized in KNUST on the 13th of May, 2021? Just this weekends, you and the Otumfour happened to have contrary opinions again on who should be blamed for the galamsey menace. You were up and arms, defending your colleagues in government and blaming chiefs. Did you not hear the name of the NPP regional chairman for Ashante Region? Is he a chief? When was he granted the said concession? Mr Minister, I want you to avert your mind to the constitutional provisions in article 257(6) of the 1992 constitution and the powers bestowed on you by section 5(1) and (2) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006(Act 703). These provisions in both the constitution and the Act, give the power to determine what happens to our natural resources to the President and to you the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and not the chiefs. In addition to all these, you have exclusive right to the use of the national security apparatus to execute any such action when the need arises. I hope you can see the color of the water in the respective rivers we have in Ghana as captured by the picture attached to this write-up. This happened under your supervision as a Minister so, you have no right to blame anybody but you and your government. You have failed and that you must humbly admit. Too much talk, they say, doesnt buy a healthy horse. 03.10.2022 LISTEN Young women have been advised to prioritize career goals in life and do away with meager things in life, especially relationships that do not seek the progress of their achievement in life. In a FedEx form of a student conversation with life achievers organized by the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) on Sunday 2ND October, 2022 at the St Luis College of Education dubbed "NUGs Talk", celebrities from various sectors of professions shared their life experiences to encourage young and enterprising youth in the Ashanti Region to be proactive in every aspect of their life. President of the Young Democratic Union of All Centre-Right Political Parties in Africa and a bloc under the International Democratic Union, Luisa Atta Agyeman, who does not consider herself a feminist has said, the fight for equality and equity for women is a no call. She is of the view that women should rather seek equity instead of equality. Equality is like measuring these flowers, you expect them to be on the same level in height and in strength, that's equality, how do women want to be equal with men," she asked. she emphasized, "Equity is when one is considered soft, and vulnerable, and should be given the quality of being fair and impartial, this is what we must fight for and not equality with men." The former president of the Ghana Union of Professional Students (GUPS) and former general secretary of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) said young ladies should be submissive to their respective and potential husbands however should shake off any form of intimidation by men in achieving their goals in life. She further advised them to equip themselves for any opportunity that comes their way. "You should prepare yourself academically and emotionally and be ready for opportunities when they avail themselves, my life is a typical example to you, I got married while studying, and I prepared myself so well that any opportunity that came my way never slipped," she said. She stressed, "It does not matter where you come from, what you do, or the challenges you are going through, just be yourself and believe in your dreams." Warning "no-one will escape" a worsening crisis, DR Congo led calls on Monday for a surge in funding to brake global heating and fight its impacts at the start of pre-COP27 climate talks in Kinshasa. The haggle comes ahead of COP27 -- the UN's 27th summit-level gathering on climate change, which is due to take place in Egypt next month. At opening ceremonies in the DRC's parliament building, Congolese Environment Minister Eve Bazaiba called on countries to respect financial pledges and endorse plans to help compensate climate-inflicted damage. She added that money to protect carbon-absorbing rain forests -- of which the DRC has vast tracts -- should be viewed not as aid but as an investment in humanity's future. "Unless a global effort is made ... no-one will escape," Bazaiba warned. "We all breathe the same air". Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry also stressed the need for more money, noting an unfulfilled promise -- dating back to COP15 in Copenhagen in 2009 -- to provide developing countries with $100 billion dollars a year to fight climate change. "The picture is not reassuring," he said. Deputy UN Secretary-General Amina Mohammed offered a gloomy update on the battle today. "All indicators on climate are heading in the wrong direction," she said. Current funding for climate adaptation is a "pittance" compared to the likely scale of future needs, she said. Damages Somalia is enduring its worst drought in 40 years. By YASUYOSHI CHIBA (AFP/File) Delegates from over 50 countries are attending the two-day informal talks in Kinshasa, including US climate envoy John Kerry. The event winds up on Wednesday with side discussions. No formal announcements are expected in what is billed as a ground-clearing exercise ahead of the next month's conference, taking place in Sharm el-Sheikh from November 6-18. Greater support from wealthier countries, historically the world's biggest carbon polluters, to their poorer counterparts is expected to dominate the talks. But post-pandemic economic strains and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have cast a pall over the money question. Climate risk: Devastating floods struck northeast Nigeria last month. By Radeno Haniel (AFP) The last UN climate summit, COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021, reaffirmed the goal -- agreed in Paris in 2015 -- of limiting the rise in the Earth's average temperature to well below 2.0 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5C. However, the latter goal may already be beyond reach as the Earth's temperature is already 1.2C higher than before the Industrial Revolution. Poorer countries had also pushed at Glasgow for a financial mechanism to address losses and damage caused by climate change. But richer states rejected the call and the participants agreed instead to start a "dialogue" on financial compensation for damages. 'We also need bread' Egypt, as host of COP27, has made implementing the pledge to curb global heating the priority of the November summit. The Democratic Republic of Congo, for its part, is pushing the message that it can act as a "solution country" for climate change due to its vast rainforests, which act as a carbon sink. Africa's rainforests suck up billions of tonnes of climate-heating carbon. By Peter MARTELL (AFP) Around 30 billion tonnes of carbon are stored across the Congo Basin, researchers estimated in a study for Nature in 2016. The figure is roughly equivalent to three years of global emissions. However, the central African nation in July launched an auction for 30 oil and gas blocs -- ignoring warnings from environmentalists that drilling could harm ecosystems and release vast amounts of heat-trapping gases. Bazaiba, the environment minister, told pre-COP27 delegates that Africa was facing a dilemma since the continent has contributed so little to climate change and yet has fossil-fuel resources that could alleviate poverty. "What should we do in this circumstance, let our children and small children die of hunger?" she asked, as applause rung out in the hall of the parliament building. "As much as we need oxygen, we also need bread," she said, Betty Mould-Iddris 03.10.2022 LISTEN A Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Betty Mould-Iddris has stressed that it is important the state takes seriously the perception that trust in the judiciary is diminishing. Multiple studies earlier this year including a survey done by the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) revealed that the majority of Ghanaians have lost confidence in the judiciary. Speaking to 3FM in an interview on Monday, Betty Mould-Iddris admitted that the perception is indeed real. She said the issue is serious and must be treated as a national security matter. The people of Ghana express it in their various interviews as a form of criticism of the judiciary. There is a perception that there is a loss of confidence in the judiciary, the former Attorney General shared. Betty Mould-Iddris continued, Its a national security issue when you have a suspicion that certain parts of the judiciary might be manipulated. If people feel they cannot get justice at the court that is not right. In recent times, the judiciary has come under criticism with former President John Dramani Mahama lambasting the Supreme Court on various rulings. While the judiciary has welcomed criticism, it has warned against unjustified accusations and attacks. You all recognise that the Judiciary as an institution and Judges, in general, have been the subject of quite a lot of rhetoric, attacks and judgement of our courts even judgements of the highest court of the land have been attacked and the Judges who delivered the same judgements have not been swerved either In my view, impugning the motives of Judges is actually undermining the integrity of the Judiciary. As a result of these unnecessary and incessant attacks, the Association in the first for about three to four terms has come out to issue statements to correct the erroneous impression and deliberate misinformation and falsehood churned out against the Judiciary, President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges, Justice Henry Kwofie said while speaking at the conference for Judges and Magistrates in Accra last week. He added, The Association must not be misunderstood to be against criticisms of Judges or the Judiciary. Criticism, if it is constructive, helps to improve any sitting and makes the various actors sit up but that is not what we are seeing lately in the press and the various social media. The Judiciary is not perfect and infallible. However, the proper tools and methods for improving and correcting the work of the Judiciary are through constructive criticisms and superior arguments not acts that targets their personality, undermine their independence, being dishonor to the administration of justice and endanger their security and safety. I pledge the support of the Ghana Bar Association to uphold the noble profession and the honour and dignity that Judiciary deserves. MP for Ningo Prampram, Mr Sam Nartey George, has deleted a Facebook post in which he attributed the current challenges facing the Electricity Company of Ghanas prepaid vending system to a deliberate attack on the system. The opposition MP, in his Facebook post on Sunday, 2 October 2022, was calling for investigations into the cause of the current challenges that have left electricity customers across the country without power. Mr Nartey George, who described the challenges with the ECG as extremely serious, said, the attack on their system was not external but carried out by a cabal of criminals within the very same organisation. He further disclosed that he had information that a group had been siphoning over GHS200 million every month from the company and urged the government to commence a forensic investigation of the IT department of ECG. However, the MP, explaining his reason for deleting his earlier post, in a subsequent post, noted that he deleted the post out of respect for the work I have just been informed is being done on the matter. He added: I do not intend in any way to compromise the remedial steps underway. I can assure you all that I would continue to follow the matter and update the public on the actions taken to ensure such treachery against our country never happens again! Since Tuesday, 27 September 2022, ECG customers across the country, have struggled to purchase prepaid credits for their prepaid metres. The ECG announced that it was experiencing challenges with the purchasing of electricity by customers on the Ecash and PNS metering systems. In a public announcement, the ECG noted that the interruption is due to a technical challenge. The power distribution company, however, assured customers in the affected areas that its engineers are working assiduously to correct the anomaly and restore the system back to normalcy. Source: classfmonline.com Calm returned to Burkina Faso's capital on Monday after the country's military leader fled to neighbouring Togo following the second coup in less than nine months. The streets of Ouagadougou were quiet after a two-day standoff between junta chief Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and a newly-emerged rival for power, 34-year-old Captain Ibrahim Traore. After a jittery weekend that also saw violent protests at the French embassy and culture centre, Damiba agreed on Sunday to step down. Diplomats said Damiba had gone to the Togolese capital Lome, and this was confirmed on Monday by the Togolese government, which said it had accepted him in order to support "peace in the sub-region." West Africa's regional bloc ECOWAS issued a statement late Sunday welcoming "a peaceful settlement of... differences" and announced it would dispatch a delegation to Ouagadougou the following day. But sources at the Burkina foreign ministry and president's office said the mission had been postponed until Tuesday, while an ECOWAS diplomat said the delay was because of "logistical reasons." Protest aftermath: The damaged entrance to the French embassy in Ouagadougou. By Olympia DE MAISMONT (AFP) Burkina is struggling with a seven-year-old jihadist campaign that has claimed thousands of lives, forced nearly two million people to flee their homes and left more than a third of the country outside government control. Anger within the beleaguered armed forces prompted Damiba's coup against the elected president, Roch Marc Christian Kabore, on January 24. Appointing himself transitional president, Damiba vowed to make security the country's top priority but after a brief lull the attacks revived, claiming hundreds of lives. Traore dramatically emerged on Friday at the head of a faction of disgruntled junior officers, which proclaimed that Damiba had been deposed -- also for failing to roll back the insurgency. Transition pledge Damiba set "seven conditions" for stepping down, according to religious and community leaders who mediated in his standoff with Traore. These included safety guarantees for him and his allies in the military, and that a pledge he had given to ECOWAS for a return to civilian rule within two years be respected. Burkina Faso. By (AFP) Speaking on the French radio station RFI on Monday, Traore vowed to uphold the July 2024 timeline for restoring civilian rule. This could even happen "before that date" if conditions were right, Traore said. He said that he would simply carry out "day-to-day business" until a new civilian or military transitional president was appointed. The appointment would be made by a national forum gathering political and social representatives, the pro-Traore faction in the military said on Sunday. Traore told RFI that this meeting would take place "well before the end of the year." Analysts said that his position, if carried out, would be acceptable to ECOWAS. The Economic Community of West African States was created to shore up democracy in one of the world's most volatile regions, yet has suffered five coups in three of its 15 members since August 2020. Anti-French protests Burkina's latest bout of turmoil coincided with a surge of violent protests against France, the former colonial power and ally in its struggle against the jihadists. Pro-Traore officers accused Damiba of having taken refuge at a French military base near Ouagadougou in order to plot a "counter-offensive" -- charges he and France denied. On Sunday, security forces fired tear gas from inside the French embassy to disperse angry protesters, and the French Institute, which promotes French culture, was also attacked. Pro-Moscow: Demonstrators waving a Russian flag stand atop a UN peacekeepers' vehicle in Ouagadougou on Sunday. By - (AFP) The foreign ministry in Paris blamed the violence on "hostile demonstrators manipulated by a disinformation campaign against us." Traore on Monday condemned what he called "acts of violence and vandalism" against those buildings and urged "calm and restraint." Damiba's ouster was proclaimed on Friday just hours after a protest rally that also demanded the end of France's military presence in the Sahel and closer military cooperation with Russia. Some of the demonstrators waved Russian flags. Russian paramilitaries are supporting fragile regimes in Mali and Central African Republic, sidelining France, those countries' traditional backer. The Russians have also been tarred with accusations of massacres and other abuses. On Monday, the Kremlin said Russia wanted the situation in Burkina "to normalise as soon as possible, for complete order to be ensured in the country and for a return to the framework of legitimacy as soon as possible." Thousands of people marched in Paris on Sunday to condemn Iran's Islamic leadership in a giant show of solidarity with the protests sparked by the death in custody of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini for allegedly failing to appropriately wear the obligatory Muslim veil. Following major rallies in key diaspora cities including Los Angeles and Toronto over the weekend, a stream of people walked from the French capital's traditional protest hub of Place de la Republique to Place de la Nation. Protestors carried banners with "Join the first feminist revolution!" and "Mahsa Amini your name has made the tyranny of the ayatollahs shake!". They chanted "down with the Islamic republic!", "death to the dictator", as well as "Woman. Life. Freedom" three words that have become the main slogan of the protests in Iran. They also sang along to "Baraye" ("For") which Iranian songwriter Shervin Hajipour put together using Twitter postings about the demonstrations. Hajipour has now been arrested in a symbol of the strength of the Iranian leaders' crackdown on dissent. Women-led revolution Despite the crackdown, which according to the Iran Human Rights (IHR) group has left 92 dead and severe cuts to the internet, protests are continuing daily in Iran with young women at the forefront. "We weren't expecting that after the Islamic revolution 40 years ago, we'd be living through a woman-led revolution," said Azad, an Iranian living in exile in Paris. "That's what's so extraordinary and powerful." Many welcomed the leading role women are playing in the protest movement. "It's different this time round because women have decided to go onto the streets and demand their freedom," 37-year-old Sagar, a French-Iranian women, told RFI. "We don't know what will happen in the next few weeks, but there will be change of course. When I see men defending women, for me it's a revolution. We didn't have that before." Guilda Torabi, a student of Iranian origin in Paris, said that given the dangers of protesting in Iran, the diaspora had a role to play. "They go out to protest, but they get killed. We are lucky to be able to demonstrate and fight for them. So we will keep on coming," she said. Toura Dana, a French-Iranian engineer, added: "Now we have become the voice of the Iranian people who are cut off. Now Iran has become one big prison." A federating cause Iranian-born Mathieu said seeing such a diverse diaspora rally around a common cause is a strong symbol. "The revolution divided people, but being surrounded by royalist flags, republicans, and people from the far left, seeing them coming together is good news," he said. Prominent figures of the French left including Socialist leader Olivier Faure, Greens figure Sandrine Rousseau and far-left MEP Manon Aubry addressed the crowd. Rousseau, who has defended the right for women in France to wear the Muslim hijab, was heckled during her speech an indication of how divisive the issue of wearing the veil is in France. Some protesters voiced anger that French President Emmanuel Macron had met Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly shortly after the death of Amini. "The French government flirts with the mullahs while the mullahs kill women," read one slogan above an image of Macron shaking hands with Raisi. President Raisi on Sunday again accused Iran's "enemies" of "conspiring" against the state and said their attempts had "failed". Independent enquiry Amnesty International France was among the organisers of Sunday's march. Fanny Gallois, head of their "Liberte" programme, said they were working hard to get information on those killed, arrested or missing. "We've counted at least 52 deaths, hundreds injured and thousands of arrests but we are struggling to get reliable information because of internet blackouts, she said. Amnesty has evidence that the Iranian authorities have pressured families of victims into testifying against other demonstrators. "They offered financial rewards to victims' families to record videos testifying against demonstrators for the deaths of their loved ones. Some accepted this money, others refused." "A huge amount of information is circulating and we have to cross check everything, but it's extremely difficult to carry out this investigation with media on the ground which is not independent and the independent press working abroad," she said. Amnesty International France is calling on France and other members of the UN Human Rights Council to launch an independent enquiry into the crackdown in Iran. 03.10.2022 LISTEN The timely deployment of armed policemen prevented physical assault of staff of the Kumasi Airport office of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) by angry customers. The customers who had formed long queues at the premises to buy pre-paid meter credits were said to have become agitated following the inability of the staff to tell them when they would be able to buy the credits for their homes and businesses. Some of the aggrieved customers who spoke to the Ghana News Agency during a visit to the premises on Monday morning said they were appalled at the lack of transparency in the ongoing challenges facing the ECG. According to them, though the ECG had told the public that the challenges had been resolved and that customers could purchase power, they were still finding it difficult to get the power to buy. They said the failure of the ECG to tell consumers the truth about the current challenges and when they would be resolved, were the cause of the agitations and attempts by some of them to manhandle the workers. However, Mrs Grace Garshong, Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer of the ECG told the GNA that, vending for some categories of the pre-paid meters had been restored in some areas of the Ashanti region. For instance, the Smart-G and E-cash 4 meters, which are serving areas such as Adum, Danyame, Abuakwa, Suame, Kwadaso, Ohwimase, agric-Nzema and their catchment areas, were functioning and customers in those areas could purchase their power. She said other pre-paid service meter, the EnerSmart, which is supposed to serve areas such as Aboabo, Adukrom, Manhyia, Asawase, Asafo, Asokwa, Gyinase, Deduako, Kotei, Kentinkrono, Maxima, Effiduase and the adjoining communities, was still facing challenges and technicians were working to fix it. Mrs Garshong said the IMES pre-paid meter, which serves areas like Dechemso, Krofuom, Moshie Zongo, Buokrom, Tafo, Ayigya, Ejisu and its environs, keeps on fluctuating because of the instability of the network but that would soon be addressed to help sell power to consumers. She appealed to the customers to exercise restraint since the company was working around the clock to restore power for them. GNA South African comedian Trevor Noah at the Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on September 12, 2022. - Source: Photo by Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images 03.10.2022 LISTEN After seven years of hosting The Daily Show on Comedy Central , a hit comedy show produced in the US but with global reach, South African born comedian Trevor Noah has announced plans to leave and focus on his stand-up comedy. During his tenure as host of the political satire series, which he took over from the revered Jon Stewart , Noah has offered important takes on issues in the US and the world. Considering that the late-night television satire scene in the US remains populated by white men , Noah has offered unique black African insights into issues that affect black Americans. He has also been lucid in talking about issues that have an effect on Africa and Africans. Noah's knowledge of Africa and African politics has helped him demonstrate that there are few differences between America, lauded as one of the greatest democracies in the world, and global south countries that Trump once called shithole states. Noah's approach attracted more African Americans than was the case during Stewart's tenure. A 2017 study by Nielsen Media Research showed that during Stewart's final season, 84.5% of the viewers were white. Noah lost 40% of the white viewers and gained 16% more black viewers than his predecessor. He spoke with great clarity on issues such as the Black Lives Matter protests against racism, discrimination and racial inequity experienced by black people, the turbulent Trump presidency, the rise in white supremacy and the global COVID pandemic. By commenting on these different issues, he was able to bring home the inequalities that continue to be seen and experienced in the US. Noah has defied the odds, offered a youthful, black perspective and drawn in a new audience. He will be a hard act to follow - which is what people said of his predecessor. Noah's particular past Growing up and coming of age in South Africa has undoubtedly shaped Noah's worldview. In his book Born a Crime (2016), and in his numerous stand-up comedy shows, he set out what it meant growing up in apartheid South Africa, with its white-minority rule and policies of racial segregation. Because his father was white and his mother black, he could not have a normal childhood in which he could grow up in the same home as both his parents. It was legally impossible. the Immorality Act prohibited sex between people of different races. Noah drew on his experiences in South Africa in his role as chief anchor of The Daily Show. In particular he was able to show the striking parallels between present day America and apartheid-era South Africa. He explains this reality in one of the episodes of the show at the height of the global coronavirus pandemic: Living in this period in America, as much as I hate to say it, a lot of the things that I'm seeing are similar to what we experienced in South Africa. Mass unemployment, a government that doesn't seem to have the best interests of the people at heart. People who are getting angrier and angrier. He explained in another episode of the show during the run-up to the 2016 US elections that as an African, there's just something familiar about Trump that makes me feel at home. He went on to talk about striking resemblances between former US president Donald Trump and several former African presidents such as Jacob Zuma of South Africa, Idi Amin of Uganda and Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. Comedy and political satire I argue in a book chapter on political satire that the comic offers important ways of criticising those in power. During his tenure at The Daily Show, Noah has used comedy and satire to discuss diverse pressing contemporary issues, in the US and globally. As he has explained : I believe in the importance of jokes. I will never lose that. I always tell people, 'Jokes are what made me'. That's how I see the world. Before joining The Daily Show, Noah was an established stand-up comedian. In South Africa, he was known for satirising Jacob Zuma during his presidency for corruption and his role in state capture. Comedy has allowed him to deal with difficult subjects in a lighthearted way. He has stated that: I've loved trying to find a way to make people laugh, even when the stories are particularly s, even on the worst days. Noah has infused the comic into his anchoring of The Daily Show and managed to tackle controversial topics in a cheerful yet hard-hitting way. Poking holes in American exceptionalism Being a foreigner in the US, Noah has the necessary distance to offer sobering analyses of current affairs in that country. Through his examination of the Trump presidency and the Black Lives Matter movement, he has shown that the idea of America being exceptional is an illusion. At the height of the Black Lives Matter protests in the US, he took to The Daily Show to give a grim yet poignant monologue about race in the US. Noah traced the chain of events that went beyond the killing of George Floyd, a black man who was suffocated to death on the side of a road by a group of white policemen, to show the precarity of black lives in contemporary America. The monologue is sharp, knowledgeable and nuanced in its explanation of what was happening in the US. He grounded it on historical events to show that nothing was new. The US was not exceptional. The US democracy was as imperfect as that of the many countries that it had preached to for many years. It has taken a late-night host from outside the US to point to the failings of the US and its democracy. Late night TV without Noah The late-night circuit will be different without Noah, the only black and African host of a late-night show in the US. Because of his intimate knowledge of global popular culture, he has had a youthful viewership. His peers do not have the same perspective or viewership. If Noah replacing Stewart was seen as a daunting exercise, filling the shoes of Noah might prove to be even more challenging. Gibson Ncube 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 Gibson Ncube, Lecturer, Stellenbosch University A man living living on the streets in Johannesburg holding the nyaope (opiod) drug ready to smoke. - Source: Photo by Bongani Siziba/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images 03.10.2022 LISTEN The ways we intervene in curbing addiction to substances has shifted from the medical era, focusing on acute care, to a comprehensive chronic care model . People need long-term support to stay off substances, as well as immediate help to stop using them. But in South Africa there is silence on alternative and innovative ways people recover. The country has an over-reliance on the medical model. This is despite an acknowledgement that addiction as a disease has physiological effects that have an impact on other areas of functioning. This calls for the adoption of a bio-psycho-social approach which proposes that illness and disease conditions are not only biological but have that they have psychological and social dimensions. Managing addiction requires taking account of all these factors. My PhD research examined alternative and innovative approaches to curbing the use of a heroin variant known locally as whoonga or nyaope. Opiod use has risen exponentially in the country over the past 20 years . Over 60% of those confined to rehabilitation centres are young black South Africans . I closely examined the experiences of six young African men between the ages of 20 and 33 who desisted from using the opioid for an average of 3.3 years. They were recruited from the communities of Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu, north-west of Durban in South Africa. At the core of the study was an attempt to examine alternative and innovative approaches in curbing whoonga addiction that support recovery and promote prevention. In my research study the six young men took very different routes to recovery. Some recovered with institutional support, some without. Some took the medical route, others didn't. Some needed familial and community support. Others didn't. The experiences of the six individuals showed that people do recover from addiction, but that when this happens away from the medical or institutional world it's not recorded. I concluded from my findings that South Africa should manage opioid addiction by incorporating socio-economic factors into the design of any interventions. These include unemployment, a lack of skills, boredom and a norm of cannabis smoking among youth. Policies should also take account of spiritual issues so that they align with people's belief systems . There should be an openness to inviting other healing methods, including traditional ones. Drug use in South Africa Addiction to whoonga or nyaope transforms participants in profound and harmful ways. The drug is extremely potent and addictive, producing an intensely pleasurable high. The drug can be snorted, inhaled, injected and mixed with other lighter drugs. In cases of opioid addiction in South Africa, the drug is mixed with cannabis. Whoonga addiction is usually initiated in pursuit of pleasure, escaping difficult life situations and boredom. The influence of friends and peers dominates. But it soon becomes a burden. The body becomes a site for pain. And the addicted person stops caring about themselves, others and other life concerns. Roads to recovery Participants in this study provide evidence of overcoming whoonga addiction. Participants found an inner resolve, an idea that to initiate desistance comes from the internal will inside the person. But that this needs to be supported. This echoes the idea of recovery capital that recovery can be initiated by an individual, but for it to flourish, both internal and external resources are needed. This means that people who were taking opiods were supported to remain sober and to flourish, and in some cases, to initiate quitting. Support from the family and the community proved necessary to stay sober and achieve a career and flourish, even for participants who underwent solo dry detoxification. This is the most painful and challenging way of quitting without medication to ease pain or going to a rehabilitation institution. After desistance, challenges of the risk environment remained. These were the threats to the recovery process that were associated with initiating drug use in the first place. Recovery was welcomed by family, peers and the community, who presented participants as models to those who had not stopped, showing them that it was possible. Participants were offered an opportunity to generate a nationwide trend using social media to encourage others to quit. The study demonstrated the use of multiple and complementary ways professional, non-professional and sole trajectories to achieve recovery. Next steps The government needs a strategy for dealing with opioid addiction. This should guide different agencies, streamline and coordinate resources, and involve multi-sectoral collaborative approaches. The strategy should include professional and non-professional ways including innovative ways of supporting recovery. In the US, organisations such as Alcohol/Narcotics Anonymous have accepted the movement from a focus on acute care to a focus on chronic care . The UK and Australia have lobbied for legislation and implemented some recovery houses. In the South, Brazil reported on its first recovery house in 2019. There should also be a concerted campaign to debunk myths about whoonga or nyaope. For example, that they are opioid-based entities. The campaign should also focus on inviting alternative ways of dealing with drug addiction that are sensitive to local needs and use readily available resources. The country has very few public rehabilitation centres, and those run by the private sector are expensive. This points to the need to devote attention to the fact that communities can play an immense role, including as preventative and after-care agents . Another innovative approach would be to create peer recovery support groups. These groups would provide communities of former whoonga addicts with a place to go. And participants would present hope to those addicted and the community that overcoming whoonga addiction is a reality. In turn this would alleviate stigma. Such communities are best positioned to support early recovery experiments in empathic and non-judgemental ways. Alternative preventative measures should also be put in place. These could, for example, reorientate young people to traditional African ways that support and bolster a sense of pride in who they are. Instilling mechanisms of earning membership to the community, and guidance on navigating the transition to adulthood, for example, rites of passage among youth, would be necessary. The message is that actions and behaviours reverberate, affecting their communities. For young people to understand the plight of their own communities, teaching individual responsibility for the health and welfare of communities is essential for prevention. Thabani Khumalo 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 Thabani Khumalo, Senior Lecturer, Discipline of Psychology, Applied Human Sciences, Pietermaritzburg Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal The WCO COVID-19 Project, funded by the Government of Japan, organized a five-day workshop in Nukualofa, Tonga from 12 to 16 September 2022 to assist Tonga Customs in enhancing its preparedness to face natural disasters through the drafting of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the clearance of relief consignments. This is the second capacity-building activity held as part of the Project for Tonga and follows on from the online workshop conducted in August 2022, which was dedicated to assessing the response to the tsunami that hit the island in January 2022. The in-person workshop brought together over 30 participants representing Customs, the National Emergency Management Office, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Trade, the Ministry of Agriculture, airport and port authorities, and humanitarian actors. During the opening ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of Tonga Customs, Mr. Kelemete Vahe, expressed his appreciation for the WCOs assistance to his Administration and thanked the Government of Japan for financially supporting the COVID-19 Project. He went on to underscore the role played by Customs in disaster response and encouraged participants to gain the maximum benefit from this capacity-building activity. Prior to the SOP drafting sessions, participants took part in focused discussions on the WCO instruments and tools of relevance to disaster relief and ways to implement them at the national level. The WCO experts highlighted the crucial role that SOPs play in streamlining Customs procedures and processes and how they enhance the operational readiness of Customs staff. Participants active involvement in working groups to draft SOPs helped produce an initial outline of a holistic tool that further refines roles and procedures with a view to facilitating the processing of relief consignments. The workshop concluded with a scenario-based discussion exercise to test the SOPs robustness by going through the key topics, including the establishment of a list of essential and relief goods, coordination mechanisms, and cooperation with other government agencies. Finally, and importantly, the workshop underlined the key role of Customs in managing disruptions and the perspective of humanitarian actors alongside the operational challenges they are facing, providing a platform to unite efforts and strengthen cooperation among disaster management stakeholders in Tonga. Civil Society Organisation, OccupyGhana has called on the government to declare a state of emergency as part of its fight against illegal mining (galamsey) activities in the country. According to the advocacy group, this will help in tackling the continuous unregulated galamsey activities destroying Ghanas forest reserve, land, and water bodies. We risk losing our very essence as a nation unless immediate and radical action is taken, first to STOP all unregulated and illegal mining, and then put a process in place to REGULATE artisanal mining, going forward. We, therefore, request that you take immediate steps toward declaring a state of emergency in every mining area in Ghana. In accordance with article 31(1) of the Constitution, these steps would be, first, seeking and obtaining the advice of the Council of State and, second, publishing a Proclamation of the declaration in the Gazette, a release from OccupyGhana has said today. Subsequently, the group says it expects parliament to be recalled from its vacation, for the government to place before it the facts and circumstances leading to the declaration of the state of emergency under article 31(2). The OccupyGhana release adds that considering the gravity of the situation, it fully expects Parliament to agree with the government and provide that the state of emergency should remain for such period as Parliament may determine so that the government can get a grasp of the situation. For our part, we have and are willing to offer suggestions and proposals on how to establish a properly regulated artisanal mining industry in Ghana that would benefit the wider interest of all Ghanaians, the OccupyGhana release concludes. Read the full release below: GALAMSEY REMINDER (NO 1) DECLARE A STATE OF EMERGENCY IN ALL MINING AREAS In our open letter to you dated 28 September 2022, we promised to send you a Galamsey Reminder every Monday morning until your government takes drastic steps to control the situation. This is the first Reminder. We are convinced that the unprecedented and rampant scale of unregulated and illegal mining has reached a stage where under Article 31(9) of the Constitution, it constitutes a situation in which any action is taken or is immediately threatened to be taken by any person or body of persons which (a) is calculated or likely to deprive the community of the essentials of life; or (b) renders necessary the taking of measures which are required for securing the public safety, the defence of Ghana and the maintenance of public order and of supplies and services essential to the life of the community. We risk losing our very essence as a nation unless immediate and radical action is taken, first to STOP all unregulated and illegal mining, and then put a process in place to REGULATE artisanal mining, going forward. We, therefore, request that you take immediate steps toward declaring a state of emergency in every mining area in Ghana. In accordance with article 31(1) of the Constitution, these steps would be, first, seeking and obtaining the advice of the Council of State and, second, publishing a Proclamation of the declaration in the Gazette. Thereafter we expect Parliament to be recalled from its vacation, for the government to place before it the facts and circumstances leading to the declaration of the state of emergency under article 31(2). Considering the gravity of the situation, we fully expect Parliament to agree with the government and provide that the state of emergency should remain for such period as Parliament may determine so that the government can get a grasp of the situation. For our part, we have, and are willing to offer suggestions and proposals on how to establish a properly regulated artisanal mining industry in Ghana that would benefit the wider interest of all Ghanaians. Yours in the service of God and Country OccupyGhana cc. All Media Houses 03.10.2022 LISTEN The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu, affectionately called Joe Wise has stressed that it is about time people took responsibility and made things happen for themselves when seeking jobs. According to him, it will be wrong for anyone to look up to the government for employment at this moment in time. In his view, the days when it was the responsibility of the government to provide jobs for the people are over. Look at our Constitution and our structure, the days that government took responsibility for providing jobs are long gone. Now, the governments position is that I will provide the environment for you to create the jobs for yourselves so we should stop placing responsibility where it is not. A lot of the time we make people feel that it is governments duty to do this, do that so people dont do the things they can do for themselves, Joe Wise told GHOne TV in an interview. The First Deputy Speaker during his engagements, urged the youth to look beyond the government for everything and do something for themselves with their talent and skills. The Bekwai Member of Parliament explained that going forward, he is going to speak to issues as it is since he is leaving politics. Im leaving politics, I want to retire quietly and so I will now speak boldly about things that matter. If we are going to move forward, people must take responsibility for their lives, Mr. Joseph Osei Owusu said. 03.10.2022 LISTEN The African Court on Human and Peoples Rights has rolled out strategic measures to encourage the Government of Ethiopia to ratify the Protocol establishing the African Continental Court and deposit the Declaration under Article 34(6) to allow its citizens access to the African Court directly. As part of the measures a high-powered African Court delegation including Judges and other Staff are in Addis Ababa, led by Lady Justice Imani Daud Aboud, President of the African Court to hold meetings with the President of Ethiopia and other key government officials, including the Minister for Foreign Affairs, and the Minister for Justice, among others. The African Court and the Government of Ethiopia, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission would also hold a sensitization seminar on October 4th at Addis Ababa to educate stakeholders in Ethiopia on the Continental Courts jurisprudence. The seminar would be attended by over 60 participants including high-level government officials and key partners to discuss areas of common interest in the protection of human rights and to explore potential rooms for institutional partnerships. Lady Justice Aboud, African Court President told the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) in an interview that the seminar would promote the work of the African Court and strengthen its partnership with governmental agencies and civil societies through dialogue. The African Court President said it also seeks to cement efforts in the protection of human rights in Africa, and also complement efforts to build the capacity of national human rights institutions and defenders in human rights litigation before the African Court. Dr. Robert Eno, African Court Registrar also told the CDA Consult that the main objective of the sensitization visits is to enhance the protection of human rights in Africa. He said the African Court used such sensitization visits to also raise awareness about the Continental Court; encourage the ratification of the Protocol and deposit of the Declaration that allows citizens to directly access the African Court. Other objectives are to sensitize would-be applicants on how to access the African Court and the procedures before the Court; encourage the public to utilize the Court in settling human rights disputes and encourage the utilization of the Court for advisory opinions. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has issued an apology to Ghanaians for the vending challenges that have persisted since last week. Addressing a press conference in Accra on Monday, October 3, Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana, Samuel Dubik Mahama said his outfit admits it has failed to deliver on its service. I will use this opportunity to apologise to all customers of ECG who attempted to purchase power and were not able to purchase power. The company admits its fault, the company admits it was not able to deliver on its service, the ECG boss indicated. He further disclosed that through the 24/7 efforts of ECG staff, the challenges have been resolved and most vending stations are now able to vend power. Samuel Dubik Mahama also assured that efforts are underway to ensure that all challenges will be no more by the close of the day. The company at this point will also like to inform its customers that most vending stations are up and runningWe still have some challenges and hopefully, by close of the day it should be resolved, the ECG Managing Director shared. He added, We also want to tell our cherished customers that all those who have a problem should use the redress channels through PURC and see us and we will handle it on a case-by-case basis. Commenting on the speculations that the ECG systems have been hacked leading to the vending challenges, Samuel Dubik Mahama noted that he can neither deny nor confirm. He, however, revealed that the challenges are technology related which will be investigated thoroughly. The Vision for Alternative Development (VALD Ghana) and other civil society actors in Ghana have called on global leaders and national decision-makers to adopt and enforce alcohol policy solutions to protect and promote human rights and development. They made the call as they joined communities around the world to commemorate the 2022 World Alcohol Free Day on October 3, to raise awareness on the benefits of an alcohol-free way of life, highlighting the negative impact of alcohol on health and society. A statement signed by Mr Labram M. Musah, the Programmes Director of VALD Ghana and copied to the Ghana News Agency, quoted United Kingdom guidelines on the benefits of alcohol-free days, stating; If you wish to cut down the amount you drink, a good way to help achieve this is to have several alcohol-free days each week. That, a drinker/drinkers who has adapted the practice of alcohol-free days would experience the benefit of feeling healthier in general, sleeps better have more energy, losses weight, concentrates better, saves money, among other things. The statement said despite the benefits, there was a deliberate attempt by the industry through their marketing tactics to prevent drinkers from achieving full health benefits. The VALD Ghana and the other civil society actors expressed their disappointment on how some celebrities and media commentators endorse and promote alcohol advertisements due to their personal gains, without recourse to the harm alcohol inflicts on people's health. The statement said the protection of children, youth as well as public health and safety must be a primary concern for all. It commended the Ministry of Health through the Food and Drugs Authority for restricting alcohol advertisement on television and radio from 0600 hours to 2000 hours as well as the ban on well-known celebrities from advertising alcohol. However, there is still more work to be done, especially about alcohol marketing, alcohol accessibility and affordability in order to effectively regulate the industry. More and intense efforts are needed at the national level to protect people's right to live free from alcohol and to promote health and well-being, as well as development through alcohol use prevention, it stated. The statement said alcohol consumption was a causal factor in more than 200 diseases, injuries and other health conditions including domestic violence and road traffic accidents, adding that there was a rise to alcohol related diseases and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including cancers, stroke, liver problems, cardiovascular diseases, mental and behavioral disorder among others. Sadly, patients with these diseases are unable to pay for treatment because it is very expensive, and cost of treatment is not included in the benefit package of the National Health Insurance. It stated that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol consumption contributes to three million deaths each year globally as well as to the disabilities and poor health of millions of people many of them living in low- and middle-income countries, where Ghana belongs. Notwithstanding this scary statistics, the alcohol industry is pushing aggressively to maintain their grip on adult consumers as well as to initiate children and the youth to alcohol use, which threatens the health, well-being and socio-economic development of countries such as Ghana. The statement said the WHO Global Alcohol Strategy provides guidance for policy-makers in Ghana by encouraging them to support children, youth and adults in their alcohol-free way of life and to protect them from pressures to start consuming alcohol. The majority of the global adult population live free from alcohol even in high-income countries where more people consume alcohol. There is now a youth generation coming up that chooses to stay alcohol-free longer, embracing healthier, sustainable lifestyle choices, it stated. It said: As we celebrate the benefits of living alcohol-free life on this year's World Alcohol-Free Day, we call on our political leaders to step up and take decisive actions that protect and support all people to make healthier choices for themselves, their families, communities and countries at large and avoiding every inaction that exposes Ghanaians to all forms of alcohol as is currently happening in Ghana. VALD Ghana calls on the government through the Ministry of Health and Food and Drugs Authority to intensify their level of commitment towards protecting the people by implementing and enforcing a more robust and lifesaving alcohol regulation. It's now or never; we call for an effective alcohol policy solution as recommended by the WHO SAFER package, especially on raising alcohol taxes, banning alcohol advertisement, and consciously reducing the availability of alcohol in our communities. GNA The Accra Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) has called on Parliament to pass the National Sanitation Authority Bill into law. According to the MPHD the passage of the bill would contribute significantly to the work of public health officers in Ghana by providing an effective mechanism to address the huge structural gap. Mr Michael Affordofe, Head of the Environmental Health Department of the Accra School of Hygiene, made the call in an interview with the Ghana News Agency to mark the World Environmental Health Day in Accra. The Day was on the theme: Strengthening Environmental Health Systems for the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It was sponsored by Guinness Ghana, Zoomlion, and Witties Ghana. Mr Affordofe said the passage of such a law was long overdue and urged government and Parliament to expedite the processes for the enactment of the bill. He also touched on the lack of Environmental Health Directorate of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD), its impact on environmental services and the health officers to perform their functions as the law prescribed. Mr Affordofe said since 2017 government started to reform the environmental health and management structure by moving the directorate from MLGRD to the new Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources (MSWR). This needs much to desire since the staff of the assemblies operate under the directives of the Office of the Local Government Services and not the MSWR, which is creating a huge gap, he stated. He said in view of the problems, there was the need to have a well-coordinated, motivated and competent public health workforce to lead in the promotion, prevention of diseases and prolonging the lives of the populace. Even though the MSWR I doing its best to perform some of the functions but the question is, who implements and monitors its policies, hence the need for Parliament to pass the bill to address this huge gap, he noted. The Health Expert said the World Health Organisation (WHO) defines Environmental Health as the branch of public health concerned with assessing, correcting, controlling and preventing those factors in the environment that can potentially affect adversely the people. Madam Esther Aidoo Dwamena, the Managing Director of Witties Ghana, who chaired the function, acknowledged the contribution of the government and its partners, especially Guinness Ghana, Witties, Zoomlion and the Power Expert Management for their support to the Assembly to enhance sanitation and environmental hygiene. She said effective sustainable awareness campaigns and the promotion of hygiene were important and urged the people to prioritise environmental health in all the communities. Madam Dwamena called for reactivation of the process towards establishing the Environmental Health Ministry to effectively address health of the communities. Madam Florence Kuukyi, the Director of the MPHD of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, cited inadequate personnel and logistics as major constraints to effectively enforce and monitor sanitation issues in the communities. She urged the people to be more proactive to the current unhealthy practices such as indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains. GNA President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has directed the Director-General of State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) to work with the Auditor-General on the causes of the infractions cited in the latest report, identify persons responsible and make the necessary recommendations as prescribed by law. According to President Akufo-Addo, the 2021 Auditor-Generals report has reported an increase in the number of infractions committed by Specified Entities, and this demands answers from Chairpersons of these entities. He made this known on Monday, 3rd October 2022, when he held a meeting with the Director General of the State Interests and Governance Authority, and Chairpersons of Specified Entities at Jubilee House, the seat of the nation's presidency. According to the President, Specified Entities have been set up to provide efficient public services, promote public economic activities, and contribute to our GDP, reduce imports, increase exports, and, thereby, strengthen our economy, whilst creating jobs for our people. In addition, he indicated that Specified Entities have a duty to create the economic superhighway. However, the current trend of affairs neither portrays that picture, nor reflects positively on the managers of our Specified Entities, oversight institutions, and the government itself. It is a clear indication of poor supervision and management, as well as poor enforcement of implementation and sanctions of the needed measures, President Akufo-Addo said. He continued, I appointed you as leaders of these Specified Entities with the strong belief that you would ensure a positive change in the narrative of loss-making entities and build value for the people of Ghana. That has not happened, so I expect more from you. The President thus urged heads of Specified Entities to drill down and agree on the causes and find solutions to address the infractions pointed out by the Auditor-General and the 2020 State Ownership Reports. I want to see a marked improvement in these reports next year. Things must change. Your hard-earned reputation and honour are at stake if things crumble under your watch, and there are also serious sanctions in the SIGA Act and other laws for mismanagement, negligence and outright malfeasance, he added. Whilst urging Chairpersons to help change the narrative of Specified Entities, the President noted that the Director-General of SIGA to work with the Auditor General, who is here with us, to drill down to the causes of the infractions, identify persons responsible and make the necessary recommendations as prescribed by law. I am giving them four (4) weeks from now to submit a report to the Chief of Staff. He, thus, advocated for good corporate governance practices in Specified Entities, stressing that boards must desist from interfering in day-to-day management of their respective Specified Entities, and making unwarranted demands on their management. You must remember that, in each of your entities, you have, apart from SIGA, an overall supervisor or monitor, which is the relevant sector Minister, and, ultimately, the Minister for Public Enterprises. If the hierarchy is rigorously maintained, we are guaranteed an enhanced performance and output of your various entities, he stated. In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo encouraged Specified Entities to trade amongst themselves, increase production and patronage of domestic products and services, adding that I pledge my full support to SIGA and other oversight institutions to exercise their authority, without any fear or favour. Source: 3news.com|Ghana 03.10.2022 LISTEN The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has secured US$1.13 billion from a consortium of international banks to meet its financing needs to purchase cocoa and related operations for the 2022/23 cocoa crop season. The Board signed the agreement with Standard Chartered Bank Ghana Limited on behalf of the other lenders. Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, witnessed the signing ceremony together with the Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Charles Adu Boahen, and Dr Ernest Addison, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana. Despite the challenging context for COCOBOD and Ghana this year, the new annual financing for a thirtieth successive year closed successfully with the strong support of its relationship banks and enhanced level of collateralisation and pricing, confirmed the longstanding successful track record of this PXF, a statement said. The Ghanaian government confirmed its long term and continuous support to COCOBOD and to the domestic cocoa industry given the sectors long standing critical role in the Ghana economy. As a structured performance risk loan lenders continue not to require a sovereign guarantee, the statement added. GNA The 30th Meeting of the Revised Kyoto Convention Management Committee (RKC/MC) was held from 26 to 30 September 2022. Over 130 Participants representing about 80 Contracting Parties to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC) and about 10 Observers from international organizations, academia, and stakeholders joined the hybrid meeting that was held virtually and in-person at WCO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. In his opening remarks, Mr. Pranab Kumar Das, Director, Compliance and Facilitation, thanked delegates for their hard work and cooperation. He further urged them to maintain the momentum as to complete the round of discussions on the Potential Draft Texts (PDTs) of concepts related to the Specific Annexes, under Step 4 of the Four-step Framework, at this meeting. One of the main objectives of this meeting was to further discuss PDTs relating to the Specific Annexes that were deferred by the 29th RKC/MC meeting as well as pending PDTs mainly concerning the Rules of Origin concept. The RKC/MC was able to discuss PDTs concerning concepts on processing of goods, postal traffic, relief consignments, express/expedited shipments, travellers, rules of origin and free zones. As decided at the 29th RKC/MC, the 30th RKC/MC meeting continued the discussion on the finalization of the possible way forward and potential update of the current Work Plan of the comprehensive review of the RKC (Step 4 of the four-step framework). The RKC/MC decided to extend the review timelines from the current Work Plan which ends in March 2023 until December 2023, during which the review of the RKC Guidelines is planned to be finalized and the already discussed potential draft texts of both of the General Annex and Specific Annexes will be further developed by proponents and interested parties. The next RKC/MC will be held from 6 to 10 March 2023. For further information, please contact us at RKCReview@wcoomd.org. Lithium developer Liontown Resources [ASX:LTR] has received mining and works permits from the WA Department of Mines, Industry, Regulation and Safety to start construction at Kathleen Valley. Lithium developer Liontown Resources [ASX:LTR] has received mining and works permits from the WA Department of Mines, Industry, Regulation and Safety to start construction at Kathleen Valley. Permission has subsequently been granted for the commencing of its lithium and tantalum mining operations at the site, with construction works to lead on to mining activities by 2023. LTR shares are down 30% in the past six months: www.TradingView.com Kathleen Construction to officially begin On Monday, Aussie lithium developer Liontown Resources detailed the latest development in its endeavours to generate a fully functioning operational lithium processing mine in Kathleen Valley, WA. An approved mining and works proposal has been granted by the WA Government to construct and open its 4Mtpa Kathleen Valley Lithium Project. The company has now received the final piece to its Kathleen construction puzzle, approval also having been received by the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) along with other relatable permits. Activities in line with LTRs developmental schedule will now commence, jump-starting construction into the rest of 2022 and into 2023, commissioning to follow by Q2 24. LTR management commented: The Kathleen Valley Project is one of the most significant new long-life lithium projects being constructed anywhere in the world. The initial 2.5Mtpa project will deliver 500ktpa of SC6.0 spodumene concentrate to global markets, with a planned expansion to 4Mtpa/700ktpa of spodumene concentrate within six years. This will position Liontown to become a leading global lithium producer, delivering spodumene concentrate which is a critical input to the rapidly growing lithium-ion battery and electric vehicle industry worldwide. So far, activities at Kathleen Valley include early construction works and pre-development preparations; clearing of the site, accommodation for workers, construction tender awards, sourcing equipment, items and employment of mining workers. LTR has also begun necessary water exploration and bore drilling, with grade control drilling (for open-pit mining) having already been completed. Liontowns Managing Director and CEO Tony Ottaviano commented: The receipt of approval for our Mining Proposal along with the Works Approval represents another major milestone for the Kathleen Valley Project. With all key enabling permits now in place, our development team can move ahead at full pace to begin major site construction activities. This is a very exciting time for everyone involved with the Company, and shareholders can look forward to steadily increasing news-flow in the weeks and months ahead as we move into the full-scale commercial development phase. We look forward to delivering a world-class project to world-class standards and creating significant value for all our key stakeholders. Liontown also pointed out that its achievements extend beyond lithium, as it received a Letter of Award for the construction of the ground-breaking 95MW hybrid power station, expanding its prospects with project partner Zenith Energy. LTR, Lithium stocks and the green future Liontowns $545 million Kathleen Valley project, located 680km north-east of perk and 60km north of Leinster, has already generated offtake interest in Tier-1 offtake clients like Ford, Tesla, and LG Energy. In the past, LTR expressed the expectation for lithium deficit to increase into 2030 due to tight supplies. Greenfield projects were anticipated to take 810 years to reach first production, slowed by issues with permits, funding, and geopolitical impacts. Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency sees lithium demand growing sixfold to 500 kilotonnes by 2030, calling for at least 50 more mines to meet the boom. In 2021, eight of 10 of the top-performing stocks were lithium stocks. And while lithium stocks are calming in 2022, we can see demand remains strong. Could this mean there are any overlooked lithium stocks out there? Our latest research report on the lithium industry suggests there could indeed be. Get a free rundown of three Aussie neglected lithium stocks worth checking out. Regards, Kiryll Prakapenka For Money Morning October 03, 2022 Ukraine Open Thread 2022-165 Only for news & views directly related to the Ukraine conflict. Please stick to the topic. The current open thread for other issues is here. Posted by b on October 3, 2022 at 12:16 UTC | Permalink Comments next page next page The Joint Anti-Drug Operation SIREN Debriefing Seminar was convened from 20 to 22 September 2022 in Seoul, Korea. The Seminar was hosted by the Korea Customs Service (KCS) and the Thai Customs Department (TCD) in cooperation with Korea Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF-Korea). Around seventy on-site participants from the TCD and the KCS attended this Seminar to share the results of Operation SIREN, together with the representatives from the WCO Secretariat, RILO A/P and the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. Operation SIREN is a joint operation between the KCS and the TCD, which aims to fight against drug trafficking. The Operation Coordination Unit was established in the TCD, and the officials of KCS and TCD worked together in this unit to analyze drug enforcement information. This operation resulted in the successful seizure of 22kg of methamphetamines, 29,000 amphetamine pills and 479 ecstasy pills. During the Seminar, the participants introduced several drug trafficking cases detected through Operation SIREN. The Seminar also arranged a study visit to the Canine Training Center, Incheon Airport Customs, and the Express Cargo Terminal to exchange views and experiences between KCS and TCD. The participants expressed their appreciation that this Seminar was a valuable opportunity to analyze the results of the operation in order to utilize this analysis for future drug enforcement and enhance close cooperation between members and regional entities. For more information, please, contact: capacity.building@wcoomd.org. When it comes to non-coffee drinkers though, the lowest risks were shown with four to five cups of ground coffee and two to three cups of instant coffee per day, with 17% and 12% less risk respectively. InSites Names Director in Sydney Global online communities specialist InSites Consulting has appointed former Crowd DNA exec Erryn Balzan as Business Director, based in Sydney, Australia. Balzan (pictured) joins from cultural insights and strategy consultancy Crowd DNA, where he served as an AD, before which he spent more than six years at GalKal, latterly as an AD. Balzan began his career working for Kadence International in London. He brings commercial experience to the leadership team in Sydney, as well as specialist knowledge in qual research design and implementation. Erica van Lieven, MD Australia and Managing Partner, comments: 'Erryn brings a wealth of experience in consumer and business banking, as well as media and digital research. His desire to develop relationships and expand his business acumen by embracing this role is evident, and we feel a natural fit between our people-centric culture and Erryn's conscientious growth mindset. We are privileged to have him join the Sydney team'. Web site: www.insites-consulting.com . Members of the pro-independence Taiwan Statebuilding Party burn a Chinese flag on a boat trip in the Taiwan Strait in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Oct. 1, 2022. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un walks away from a missile in a photo released on March 24, 2022 by the Korean Central News Agency. U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson are flanked by fellow justices as they pose prior to Justice Jackson's investiture ceremony at the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., Sept. 30, 2022. From left, Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Sonia Sotomayor and Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice Roberts and Associate Justices Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Samuel Alito, Jr., Elena Kagan, and Brett Kavanaugh. Louisiana is planning to move the most troubled young people in its juvenile justice facilities to a building on the grounds of Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. (Photo by Jarvis DeBerry) Louisianas Office of Juvenile Justice wont say when certain incarcerated young people in its custody might move to a refurbished building on the grounds of the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, citing security concerns. The Office of Juvenile Justice is making sure that if and when any transfers take place, they are done so in a way that ensures the safety of juveniles and staff, Nicolette Gordon, a spokeswoman for the agency, said Friday afternoon. For security reasons, no specific information about the timeframe of the transfers will be released at this time. The state was looking to move eight incarcerated youths to the Angola site by the end of September, according to testimony a top state juvenile justice official gave in federal court last month. That deadline was apparently missed. Gordon said the agency would notify the media once the first group of youth are safely in the new building at the adult prison. The new facility at Angola will house the most troubled youth in Louisianas juvenile justice system for a few weeks at a time. The Office of Juvenile Justice has struggled to maintain control at its facilities in recent years. Its three largest centers for incarcerated teens have seen riots, escapes and attacks on staff. Officials said the building on the grounds at Angola, one of the countrys largest maximum security prisons for adults, will help them regain control over other centers. The building, once used to house death row inmates, is fortified and easier to secure than other OJJ locations. Child welfare advocates and civil rights attorneys tried to fight the plan, saying an adult prison setting clashes with the rehabilitative mission of the juvenile justice system, but they lost a lawsuit to block the transfers. A federal judge said last week the state can proceed with relocating youth to Angola. The question of who will be transferred is still unanswered. Officials have said that up to 30 incarcerated young people may end up at the Angola site, but attorneys and parents say they have been given no information about who could be moved. This isnt unusual. The juvenile justice system rarely tells families before they transfer a young person in their care to another location. In 2014, the state shuttered the former Jetson Center for Youth abruptly in the middle of the night without notice to parents, the incarcerated individuals or even the Jetson employees. Attorneys and families are not told when children are moved before, during and, most distressingly, even after, said Aaron Clark-Rizzio, with the Louisiana Center for Childrens Rights, which provides legal representation to people in the juvenile justice system. The lack of information is causing anxiety for families this time around. One mother whose son is at an OJJ facility fears she wont be able to visit him if he is moved to Angola. She asked to have her name withheld out of fear of repercussions for her son. To go from visiting him on the regular to not being able to visit him at all will be devastating, she said in an interview Friday. The woman said she and her son initially found out about the plan to move youth to Angola through the news. Gov. John Bel Edwards revealed the plan at a press conference in July before it was explained to the families of the incarcerated. The woman said she relies on family members and friends to drive her to visitation with her son every other weekend. She always takes another one of her other children and her incarcerated sons daughter to visit, so her son can see he has family support. The purpose for my visits is to try to let him know that he is not thrown away, she said. I want him to come home and do better. If her son is moved to Angola, the woman fears she wont be able to visit him because its too far away from where she lives. Shes not sure how he will react to the lack of contact. He is going to expect me to make a miracle somewhere, but Im going to be straight honest. I wont be able to visit, she said. SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE The post Louisiana wont say when incarcerated youth might go to Angola, citing security reasons appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator. MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) Islamic extremist fighters on Monday targeted the local Somali government headquarters in the Hiran region, leaving 20 people dead and 36 wounded in a town at the center of a recent mobilization against the extremists, officials and witnesses said. The Somalia-based al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack in Beledweyne, a town more than 300 kilometers (186 miles) north of Somalias capital, Mogadishu. Somalias government earlier Monday announced that it and international partners had killed a top al-Shabab leader, Abdullahi Nadir, over the weekend. The U.S. military said it conducted an airstrike on Saturday in southwest Somalia but didnt name the al-Shabab leader killed. The Hiran governor, Ali Jayte Osman, who survived Mondays attack, told The Associated Press that the health minister of Hirshabelle state and the deputy governor of Hiran in charge of finance were among those killed in Mondays attack. At least 36 others were hurt. The first explosion occurred at the entrance gate, and after a few minutes a big truck rushed toward the headquarters building and exploded, killing many civilians who came to the office to receive services, the governor said. This attack was carried out by cowards, but their brutal acts will never distract from the public uprising against them. He said the attack badly damaged the administrations headquarters. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and reaffirmed the U.N.s commitment to work with regional and other international actors in supporting the people and government of Somalia on their path toward a peaceful Somalia, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Witness Elmi Hassan told the AP that a truck laden with explosives rammed the government headquarters around 10:00 a.m. I have seen with my own eyes several bodies that were discovered from the wreckage of the attack, human flesh scattered on the ground, he said. The police commissioner of Beledweyne, Bishar Hussein Jimale, said the attack occurred at the Lama-Galaay military camp that also serves as the government headquarters. What happened here today is a disaster that killed many innocent people, including government officials, civilians and security personnel, he said. Despite the attack, some residents remained defiant as efforts continued in the region to seize communities back from al-Shabab control. We will not be intimidated by this and we will not stay away from our battle against the terrorists. We will fight until the end, until we defeat you, resident Hassan Ali said. By OMAR FARUK Associated Press US, Philippine forces hold combat drills to brace for crisis View Photo MANILA, Philippines (AP) More than 2,500 U.S. and Philippine marines joined combat exercises Monday to respond to any sudden crisis in a region long on tenterhooks over South China Sea territorial disputes and increasing tensions over Taiwan. The annual military drills are the first major exercise between the longtime treaty allies under newly elected Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., military officials said. His predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, was an outspoken critic of U.S. security policies and frowned on military exercises with American forces he said could offend China. Called Kamandag, the Tagalog acronym for Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea, the drills involve 1,900 U.S. Marines and more than 600 mostly Philippine counterparts in mock amphibious assaults and special operations, U.S. and Philippine military officials said. Americas HIMARS missile launchers and supersonic fighter jets will take part in live-fire maneuvers that will end on Oct. 14, they said. The venues include the western island province of Palawan, which faces the South China Sea, and the northern Philippines, across the Luzon Strait from Taiwan. Philippine Rear Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia said the exercises will focus on enhancing coastal defenses and are not directed against any country. Japanese and South Korean forces will participate as observers but may join in disaster-response drills, he said. The military maneuvers are being held simultaneously with combat exercises between U.S. Marines and Japanese army forces on Japans northern island of Hokkaido that involve about 3,000 military personnel from the two sides, U.S. military officials said. U.S. Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron of the Japan-based 3rd Marine Division said the simultaneous exercises are aimed at bolstering the defensive capabilities of the U.S. alliances with the Philippines and Japan through realistic combined training. These exercises will allow our forces to strengthen interoperability and readiness to ensure we are prepared to rapidly respond to crisis throughout the Indo-Pacific, Bargeron said in a statement. Our strength, resolve and commitment to our allies and partners in the region are our most effective deterrent, U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Kurt Stahl told The Associated Press. Together, we can deter potential adversaries from ever testing our capabilities or our relationships. In July, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on China to comply with a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated Beijings vast territorial claims in the South China Sea and warned that Washington is obligated to defend the Philippines under a 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty if Filipino forces, vessels or aircraft come under attack in the disputed waters. The ruling was issued by an arbitration tribunal set up in The Hague under the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea after the Philippine government complained in 2013 about Chinas seizure of a shoal off its northwestern coast. China did not participate, called the arbitration decision a sham and continues to defy it. In addition to China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims in the busy waterway, where an estimated $5 trillion in goods passes each year and which is believed to be rich in undersea gas and oil deposits. Separately, U.S. President Joe Biden said last month that American forces would defend Taiwan if Beijing tries to invade the self-ruled island, sparking protests from China. The long-simmering sea disputes and the increasingly tense relations between China and Taiwan have become key fronts of the U.S.-China rivalry. ___ Associated Press journalist Aaron Favila contributed to this report. By JIM GOMEZ Associated Press High court rejects Russian companys dispute with Ukraine View Photo WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court is siding with a Russian oil company in a dispute with Ukraine worth millions, a win for the company as Russia continues to wage war in Ukraine. The justices said Monday they would not intervene in a dispute between PAO Tatneft, one of Russias largest oil companies, and Ukraine. The case will continue in lower U.S. courts which have sided with the company and declined to dismiss the case. As is typical, the high court did not comment on the case but said only it would not hear it. The dispute is one of many the court said Monday it would not hear. Monday is the first day the court is hearing arguments after a summer break. The case the court rejected dates back to the late 1990s and early 2000s and involves Ukraines largest oil refinery, the Kremenchuk oil refinery, which was destroyed by Russia in April. The refinery was originally half-owned by Ukraine and half-owned jointly by Tatneft and by the oil-rich Russian region of Tatarstan. A dispute between the parties led to arbitration in which Ukraine was ordered in 2014 to pay $112 million plus interest. Tatneft has tried using courts in the United States to seek compensation, but Ukraine says the U.S. has no connection to the case. Lawyers for Ukraine say Tatneft should be using courts in Ukraine which, despite the war, remain open and would fairly consider Tatnefts request for relief. The case is Ukraine v. PAO Tatneft, 22-19. MEXICO CITY (AP) The Mexican government or army has allegedly continued to use spyware designed to hack into the cellphones of activists, despite a pledge by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to end such practices. Press freedom groups said Monday they found evidence of recent attempts to use the Israeli spyware program Pegasus against activists investigating human rights abuses by the Mexican army. The Pegasus infection was confirmed through a forensic investigation by the University of Toronto group Citizen Lab. According to a report by the press freedom group Article 19, The Network for the Defense of Digital Rights and Mexican media organizations, the targets included rights activist Raymundo Ramos. Ramos has worked for years documenting military and police abuses, including multiple killings, in the drug cartel-dominated border city of Nuevo Laredo. Ramos cellphone was apparently infected with Pesgasus spyware in 2020. They do not like us documenting these types of cases, for them to be made public and have criminal complaints filed, Ramos said. The other victims included journalist and author Ricardo Raphael in 2019 and 2020, and an unnamed journalist for the online media outlet Animal Politico. Daniel Moreno, the director of Animal Politico, said if the president didnt know, that is very serious because it means the army engaged in spying without his consent. If the president did know, that is also very serious. Lopez Obrador took office in December 2018 pledging to end government spying. The president said he himself had been the victim of government surveillance for decades as an opposition leader. We are not involved in that, Lopez Obrador said in 2019, in response to questions about the use of Pegasus. Here we have decided not to go after anybody. Before, when we were in the opposition, we were spied on. The report Monday alleged the Mexican army has requested price quotes for surveillance programs from companies connected to the distribution of Pegasus, which the company says is sold only to governments. The report said the hacker group Guacamaya found army documents listing requests for price quotes from 2020, 2021 and 2022. The victims of the spyware attacks said they assumed the military was responsible, because of the nature of their work and the timing of the espionage. Leopoldo Maldonado, the director of Article 19, said, All of this indicates two possible scenarios: the first, that the president lied to the people of Mexico. The second is that the armed forces are spying behind the presidents back, disobeying the orders of their commander in chief. Contacted for comment, a spokesman for Mexicos Defense Department said it had no immediate comment on the allegations. In 2021, a Mexican businessman was arrested on charges he used the Pegasus spyware to spy on a journalist, but the Israeli spyware firm NSO Group distanced itself from that man. The businessman has long been described in Mexico as an employee of a firm that acted as an intermediary in the spyware purchases. Lopez Obradors top security official has said that two previous administrations spent $61 million to buy Pegasus spyware. The NSO Group has been implicated in government surveillance of opponents and journalists around the world. The company said NSOs technologies are only sold to vetted and approved government entities. Mexico had the largest list about 15,000 phone numbers among more than 50,000 reportedly selected by NSO clients for potential surveillance. Lopez Obrador has relied more on the military and given it more responsibilities from building infrastructure projects to overseeing seaports and airports than any of his predecessors. That has raised concerns that the Mexican army which has traditionally stayed out of politics may be turning into a force unto itself, with little oversight or transparency. By MARK STEVENSON Associated Press Downtown Sonora Crosswalk View Photo Sacramento, CA In most situations, police officers will no longer be able to stop, or ticket, people who walk across the road outside of marked crosswalks. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that has essentially decriminalized jaywalking. Californians will not be ticketed unless they cross the road and are in immediate danger of being hit. How that is defined, is being a situation where a reasonably careful person would realize there is an immediate danger. So, if there are no vehicles coming nearby, people will not have to worry about receiving a jaywalking ticket. The bill was authored by Democratic Assemblyman Phil Ting, who argued that tickets for jaywalking more often go to low-income and marginalized communities, and says it is time to reconsider how we use our law enforcement resources. Governor Newsom vetoed a similar bill last year, citing concerns over the high number of pedestrian-related crashes in the state. He did not put out a statement after signing this new bill over the weekend. The bill will become law on January 1st, 2023. Irans supreme leader breaks silence on protests, blames US View Photo DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded publicly on Monday to the biggest protests in Iran in years, breaking weeks of silence to condemn what he called rioting and accuse the United States and Israel of planning the protests. The unrest, ignited by the death of a young woman in the custody of Irans morality police, is flaring up across the country for a third week despite government efforts to crack down. On Monday, Iran shuttered its top technology university following an hours-long standoff between students and the police that turned the prestigious institution into the latest flashpoint of protests and ended with hundreds of young people arrested. Speaking to a cadre of police students in Tehran, Khamenei said he was deeply heartbroken by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody, calling it a tragic incident. However, he lambasted the protests as a foreign plot to destabilize Iran, echoing authorities previous comments. This rioting was planned, he said. These riots and insecurities were designed by America and the Zionist regime, and their employees. Meanwhile, Sharif University of Technology in Tehran announced that only doctoral students would be allowed on campus until further notice following hours of turmoil Sunday, when witnesses said antigovernment protesters clashed with pro-establishment students. The witnesses, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said the police kept hundreds of students holed up on campus and fired rounds of tear gas to disperse the demonstrations. The student association said plainclothes officers surrounded the school from all sides as protests roiled the campus after nightfall and detained at least 300 students. Plainclothes officers beat a professor and several university employees, the association added. The state-run IRNA news agency sought to downplay the violent standoff, reporting a protest gathering took place without causing casualties. But it also said police released 30 students from detention, acknowledging many had been caught in the dragnet by mistake as they tried to go home. The crackdown sparked backlash on Monday at home and abroad. Suppose we beat and arrest, is this the solution? asked a column in the Jomhouri Eslami daily, a hard-line Iranian newspaper. Is this productive? German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the the regimes brute force at Sharif University as an expression of sheer fear at the power of education and freedom. The courage of Iranians is incredible, she said. U.S. President Joe Biden said he remains gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protestors in Iran, including students and women, who are demanding their equal rights and basic human dignity. The United States stands with Iranian women and all the citizens of Iran who are inspiring the world with their bravery, Biden said in a statement. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters: It is absolutely essential to show maximum restraint, maximum containment, when dealing (with) demonstrations all over the world, and the same is valid, obviously, for Iran. Irans latest protest movement, which has produced some of the nations most widespread unrest in years, emerged as a response to Aminis death after her arrest for allegedly violating the countrys strict Islamic dress code. It has since grown into an open challenge to the Iranian leadership, with women burning their state-mandated headscarves and chants of Death to the dictator, echoing from streets and balconies after dark. The demonstrations have tapped a deep well of grievances in Iran, including the countrys social restrictions, political repression and ailing economy strangled by American sanctions. The unrest has continued in Tehran and far-flung provinces even as authorities have disrupted internet access and blocked social media apps. Protests also have spread across the Middle East and to Europe and North America. Thousands poured into the streets of Los Angeles to show solidarity. Police scuffled with protesters outside Iranian embassies in London and Athens. Crowds chanted Woman! Life! Freedom! in Paris. In his remarks on Monday, Khamenei condemned scenes of protesters ripping off their hijabs and setting fire to mosques, banks and police cars as actions that are not normal, that are unnatural. He warned that those who foment unrest to sabotage the Islamic Republic deserve harsh prosecution and punishment. Security forces have responded with tear gas, metal pellets and in some cases live fire, according to rights groups and widely shared footage, although the scope of the crackdown remains unclear. Irans state TV has reported the death toll from violent clashes between protesters and security officers could be as high as 41. Rights groups have given higher death counts, with London-based Amnesty International saying it has identified 52 victims. An untold number of people have been apprehended, with local officials reporting at least 1,500 arrests. Security forces have picked up artists who have voiced support for the protests and dozens of journalists. Most recently Sunday, authorities arrested Alborz Nezami, a reporter at an economic newspaper in Tehran. Irans intelligence ministry said nine foreigners have been detained over the protests. A 30-year-old Italian traveler named Alessia Piperno called her parents on Sunday to say she had been arrested, her father Alberto Piperno told Italian news agency ANSA. We are very worried, he said. The situation isnt going well. Most of the protesters appear to be under 25, according to witnesses Iranians who have grown up knowing little but global isolation and severe Western sanctions linked to Irans nuclear program. Talks to revive the landmark 2015 nuclear deal have stalled for months, fueling discontent as Irans currency declines in value and prices soar. A Tehran-based university teacher, Shahindokht Kharazmi, said the new generation has come up with unpredictable ways to defy authorities. The (young protesters) have learned the strategy from video games and play to win, Kharazmi told the pro-reform Etemad newspaper. There is no such thing as defeat for them. As the new academic year began this week, students at universities in major cities across Iran gathered in protest, according to videos widely shared on social media, clapping, chanting slogans against the government and waving their headscarves. The eruption of student anger has worried the Islamic Republic since at least 1999, when security forces and supporters of hard-line clerics attacked students protesting media restrictions. That wave of student protests under former reformist President Mohammad Khatami touched off the worst street battles since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Dont call it a protest, its a revolution now, shouted students at Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, as women set their hijabs alight. Students are awake, they hate the leadership! chanted crowds at the University of Mazandaran in the countrys north. Riot police have been out in force, patrolling streets near universities on motorbikes. By The Associated Press Florida school shooter contemplated massacre for years View Photo FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) Florida school shooter Nikolas Cruz told a prosecution psychiatrist he began contemplating a mass murder during middle school, doing extensive research on earlier killers to learn their methods and mistakes to shape his own plans, video played at his penalty trial showed Monday. Cruz told Dr. Charles Scott during a March jailhouse interview that five years before he murdered 17 at Parklands Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Feb. 14, 2018, he read about the 1999 murder of 13 at Colorados Columbine High School, which sparked the idea of his own mass killing. Cruz told Scott how Columbine, the 2007 murder of 32 at Virginia Tech University and the 2012 killing of 12 at a Colorado movie theater all played a part in his preparation. I studied mass murderers and how they did it, Cruz told Scott. How they planned, what they got and what they used. He learned to watch for people coming around corners to stop him, to keep some distance from people as he fired, to attack as fast as possible and, in the earlier attacks, the police didnt do anything. I should have the opportunity to shoot people for about 20 minutes, Cruz said. Cruz, 24, pleaded guilty a year ago to the murders that happened during a seven-minute attack on Feb. 14, 2018 the trial will only decide whether he is sentenced to death or life without the possibility of parole. A unanimous vote by the seven-man, five-woman jury is required for Cruz to get death. Anything less and his sentence will be life. Prosecutor Mike Satz hopes Scotts testimony will rebut the defenses contention that heavy drinking by Cruzs birth mother during pregnancy caused fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, putting him on a lifelong path of bizarre and sometimes violent behavior that culminated in the shootings. The defense also tried to show that his adoptive mother, Lynda Cruz, became overwhelmed after her husband died when Cruz was 5 and never got him complete treatment for his mental health issues. She died less than three months before the shootings. Scott, a University of California, Davis, forensic psychiatrist, testified Monday that his examinations of Cruz and his school and mental health records dont support the defense findings. He diagnosed Cruz with antisocial personality disorder, saying the 24-year-old former Stoneman Douglas student can control his behavior but chooses not to because he has no regard for others. For example, Scott pointed to Cruzs 14-month employment as a cashier at a discount store with no incidents. He also said Cruz did well in alternative education classes taken after he was expelled from Stoneman Douglas a year before the shootings, getting a perfect score in a course on violence and guns. He said Cruzs behavior spiraled after a girlfriend broke up with him 18 months before the killings. Cruz told Scott that the night before the shootings, he adjusted the sights on his AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle to assure he fired accurately. He imagined how the recoil would feel and how his victims would react. He put on the burgundy polo shirt he received when he was a member of the Stoneman Douglas Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps so he could blend in with students when he fled. I couldnt sleep, Cruz told Scott. Satz also replayed videos Cruz made in the weeks before the shooting where he talked about how he would carry out the killings and hoped for a death toll of at least 20. Scott said Cruz told him that he chose Valentines Day for his massacre because he has no one to love and love him. This was not a spur of the moment decision. This was planned out for months, Scott said. Cruz told Scott he stopped shooting and fled when I didnt have anyone else to kill. Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer rejected defense attorney Tamara Curtis attempt to cross-examine Scott about how Stoneman Douglas guards spotted Cruz as he entered campus carrying a large case just before the shooting, knew he was dangerous and did not stop him or warn teachers to lock their classrooms. Scherer also rejected questions about how Cruz was reported to the FBI and Broward County sheriffs deputies as a potential school shooter, but nothing was done. These are all things that should have stopped it. It wasnt that sophisticated (of a crime). They are arguing this was a sophisticated crime, Curtis said. It is only through a series of unfortunate omissions it was carried off. Judge Scherer said such questioning would violate Floridas prohibition against blaming crimes on third-party actions. The FBI and Broward County school district did pay a combined $150 million to victims families and wounded survivors to settle lawsuits accusing them of negligence. Curtis under cross-examination did get Scott to concede that Cruz generally got failing or low grades throughout school, usually did poorly on standardized tests and made numerous internet searches for suicide methods. He also agreed that Cruz was twice recommended for psychiatric commitment, but that never happened. The trial, which began July 18, has progressed slowly Monday was only the second court session in almost three weeks. Because of Hurricane Ian, the trial met just one day last week. That came after a nearly two-week pause following the defenses surprise resting of its case Sept. 14 after calling only about 25 of the 80 witnesses the attorneys had said would testify. The prosecution then needed time to prepare its rebuttal case and schedule witnesses. That case is expected to conclude this week. Closing arguments would then be given next Monday, followed by deliberations. By TERRY SPENCER Associated Press John here. This piece on private equity working its way into the funeral industry is a bit optimistic but identifies many of the important dynamics of the process. There cant be that many $20 billion industries that are 80% privately owned and operated, and are guaranteed to have a market forever, so the appeal to private equity is obvious. By Markian Hawryluk, Senior Colorado Correspondent for Kaiser Health News, who has reported on health care for more than 25 years, including for the Houston Chronicle, American Medical News, and, most recently, The (Bend, Ore.) Bulletin. Originally published at Kaiser Health Network. Private equity firms are investing in health care from cradle to grave, and in that latter category quite literally. A small but growing percentage of the funeral home industry and the broader death care market is being gobbled up by private equity-backed firms attracted by high profit margins, predictable income, and the eventual deaths of tens of millions of baby boomers. The funeral home industry is in many ways a prime target for private equity, which looks for markets that are highly fragmented and could benefit from consolidation. By cobbling together chains of funeral homes, these firms can leverage economies of scale in purchasing, improve marketing strategies, and share administrative functions. According to industry officials, about 19,000 funeral homes make up the $23 billion industry in the U.S., at least 80% of which remain privately owned and operated mostly mom and pop businesses, with a few regional chains thrown in. The remaining 20%, or about 3,800 homes, are owned by funeral home chains, and private equity-backed firms own about 1,000 of those. Consumer advocates worry that private equity firms will follow the lead of publicly traded companies that have built large chains of funeral homes and raised prices for consumers. The real master thats being served is not the grieving family whos paying the bill its the shareholder, said Joshua Slocum, executive director of the Funeral Consumers Alliance, a nonprofit that seeks to educate consumers about funeral costs and services. Although funeral price data is not readily available to the public, surveys by the local affiliates of the alliance have found that when publicly traded or private equity-backed chains acquire individual funeral homes, price hikes tend to follow. In Tucson, Arizona, for example, when a local owner sold Angel Valley Funeral Home in 2019 to private equity-backed Foundation Partners Group, prices increased from $425 to $760 for a cremation, from $1,840 to $2,485 for a burial with no viewing or visitation, and from $3,405 to $4,480 for a full, economical funeral. In the Arizona city of Mesa, the sale of Lakeshore Mortuary to the publicly traded funeral home chain Service Corporation International led to price increases for a cremation from $1,565 in 2018 to $1,770 in 2021, for a burial from $2,795 to $3,680, and for an economical funeral from $4,385 to $5,090. We believe our pricing is competitive and reasonable in the markets in which we operate, a Service Corporation International official said in an email. Details of those price increases were provided by Martha Lundgren, a member of the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Arizonas board. She said funeral home acquisitions have led to the cancellation of pricing agreements negotiated on behalf of consumers who are members of the alliance. In 2020, a cremation at Adair Dodge Chapel in Tucson cost members $395, nearly two-thirds off the $1,100 standard price. But after Foundation Partners Group acquired the funeral home, the member pricing agreement was canceled, and the price of a direct cremation rose to $1,370. Foundation Partners Group officials said the price increases partly reflect the higher price of supplies, such as caskets, as well as increasing labor costs. But most of the increases, they said, represent a move to a more transparent pricing system that includes administrative and transportation fees that other funeral homes add on later. We dont take advantage of people in there when theyre not thinking clearly, said Kent Robertson, the companys president and CEO. Thats just not who we are. A big surge of consolidation happened in the U.S. funeral home industry in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and again around 2010, said Chris Cruger, a Phoenix-based consultant to the industry. And acquisitions have reached a feverish pace in the past two to three years. Many investors are banking on a significant uptick in demand for death care services in the coming years as 73 million baby boomers, the oldest of whom will be in their late 70s, continue to age. Sheer demographics are obviously in everybodys favor here, Cruger said. Funeral homes have attractive margins already, and combining them into chains to share administrative costs could boost profits even more. Meanwhile, many funeral home owner-operators are reaching retirement age and have no one in the family willing to take over. A 2021 survey by the National Funeral Directors Association found that 27% of owners planned to sell their business or retire within five years. The desire to sell, combined with the investment money pouring into the field, has driven prices for funeral homes to new heights. Before private equity turned its eye to funeral homes, they were selling for three to five times their annual revenue. Now Im hearing seven to nine, said Barbara Kemmis, executive director of the Cremation Association of North America, a trade group for the cremation industry. The value in funeral homes lies in more than their brick-and-mortar assets. Funeral home directors are often integral parts of their communities and have established significant goodwill with their neighbors. So when corporate chains acquire these homes, they rarely change the name and often keep the former owners around to smooth the transition. Tony Kumming, president of the NewBridge Group in Tampa, Florida, helps broker funeral home sales. Many of his clients remain skeptical of the large firms and often will take less money to sell to someone they believe wont stain their hard-earned reputations. Most former owners plan to live in the community and dont want their friends and neighbors to be mistreated. Im not saying someone is going to take half of what another company is offering, Kumming said. But theres two big pieces to a sale now: Thats money and the right fit. Five years ago, when Robert Olthof decided to sell his familys funeral home in Elmira, New York, he contacted some of the large publicly traded funeral home chains. But as representatives from multiple companies visited him to make their offers, Olthof realized that none of the big chains had sent someone versed in the service side of the business. They sent their accountants, and they sent their lawyers, he recalled. Everything was about the numbers, the numbers, the numbers. And I didnt like that. Instead, Olthof sold to Greg Rollings, a former funeral director who had amassed a privately owned, 90-site chain of funeral homes throughout the Northeast. Rollings had offered less money than the big chains had, but he knew what it was like to be awoken at 2:30 a.m. and put on a suit to go help a grieving family. He knew what it was like to bury a child. I cant put a dollar-amount value on how much its really worth selling to a person who is a funeral director themselves, Olthof said. Because moving forward, your name is still going to be on the front of that building. Victoria Haneman, a Creighton University School of Law professor who studies the funeral home industry, worries that new corporate ownership might be devastating for grieving families. They are not behaving like normal, rational consumers, she said. Theyre not bargain-shopping because death is viewed as an inappropriate time to bargain-shop. For most families, a funeral will be one of the largest expenses they ever incur. But they often enter the shopping process cognitively impaired by grief and unsure of what is customary or appropriate. Only 1 in 5 consumers visit more than one funeral home to obtain a price list, according to a 2022 survey commissioned by the Consumer Federation of America. And online comparisons are virtually impossible a study by the federation and the Funeral Consumers Alliance found that just 18% of the funeral homes they sampled listed their prices on their websites. As a result, families generally lean heavily on the expertise of a single funeral director, who has a motive to sell them the most expensive options. So consumers can be pushed into buying packages for open-casket funerals that include embalming and other services that drive up the cost and may be unnecessary. Is that sort of pickled, shellacked, cosmetized, preserved corpse where the future will be? I dont know that the answer is yes, Haneman said. And I think there are investors who are betting that its not. Foundation Partners Group is a prime example. Backed by the private equity firm Access Holdings, the funeral home chain shifted five years ago to acquiring funeral homes with high cremation rates. Cremation rates nationally have been steadily climbing over the past two decades, with nearly 58% of families now choosing cremation over casket burials. Foundation Partners expects that rate to hit 70% by 2030. The company has acquired more than 75 businesses in high-cremation states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, and Florida. Most of those funeral homes average a bit over 150 funerals per year. Individual funeral homes dont have access to marketing budgets, they dont have access to safety and health plans and benefits and these different things, said Robertson, the Foundation Partners CEO. And because we have the ability to drive marketing and do other things, we also take that 150-call firm to maybe 200 calls. Robertson said the funeral home industry is different from other sectors that private equity firms might consider investing in, describing it as a calling comparable to working in hospice care. Foundation Partners is fortunate their backers understand the service part of the industry, as well as the financials, he said. Private equity firms arent necessarily known for having deep compassion for people. Theyre more known for their financial returns, he said. To get both is really important. Foundation Partners owns Tulip Cremation, an online service that allows people to order a cremation with just a few clicks and without having to set foot in a funeral home. Tulip currently operates in nine states where Foundation Partners has funeral homes. The company expects the service to eventually operate nationally. Haneman said innovative approaches like Tulips are sorely needed in the funeral home industry, which has barely changed in 100 years. Its absurd to me that the average cost of a funeral is running $7,000 to $10,000, she said. People need less expensive options, and innovation is going to get us there. Tulip charges less than $1,000 for a cremation; ashes are mailed back to the families. Other online cremation services are Solace Cremation, Smart Cremation, and Lumen Cremation. Private equity investment has the potential to go one of two directions: Its either going to entrench status quo and drive price, or the purpose of the investment is going to be disruption, Haneman said. And disruption promises the possibility of bringing more affordable processes to market. Lambert and I, and many readers, agree that Ukraine has prompted the worst informational environment ever. We hope readers will collaborate in mitigating the fog of war both real fog and stage fog in comments. None of us need more cheerleading and link-free repetition of memes; there are platforms for that. Low-value, link-free pom pom-wavers will be summarily whacked. And for those who are new here, this is not a mere polite request. We have written site Policies and those who comment have accepted those terms. To prevent having to resort to the nuclear option of shutting comments down entirely until more sanity prevails, as we did during the 2015 Greek bailout negotiations and shortly after the 2020 election, we are going to be ruthless about moderating and blacklisting offenders. Yves P.S. Also, before further stressing our already stressed moderators, read our site policies: Please do not write us to ask why a comment has not appeared. We do not have the bandwidth to investigate and reply. Using the comments section to complain about moderation decisions/tripwires earns that commenter troll points. Please dont do it. Those comments will also be removed if we encounter them. * * * Stadia died because no one trusts Google TechCrunch Elon Musks Texts Shatter the Myth of the Tech Genius The Atlantic (Resilc) The new American Dream is buying a house with friends: Its a co-parenting model, its a co-economy model, and its a really great friendship and support model Insider At a Loss for Words APM Reports Rate the Room Laphams Quarterly Young and Homeless in Rural America NYT (Resilc) #COVID-19 Study reveals main target of SARS-CoV-2 in brain and describes effects of virus on nervous system Medical Xpress (MN) Monkeypox UK health secretary rejects advice to buy extra monkeypox doses FT (furzy) The Strategic National Stockpile failed during COVID and monkeypox. Will it come through next time? Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists China? China is very advanced in removing illegally parked cars. pic.twitter.com/Z22VDENS0k Curiously Curious (@justcurious1313) September 30, 2022 Opportunistic Interests: The US-Pacific Island Declaration CounterPunch India WBank commits $8bn to Nigeria in 12 months Punch Burkina Faso coup: Ousted military leader Damiba resigns Al Jazeera Syraqistan United Airlines Cancels Cape Town Flights Amid Jet Fuel Shortage Simple Flying Opec+ plans substantial oil production cut to prop up prices FT (KW) European Disunion Nicaragua cuts diplomatic ties with Netherlands, refuses entry to US envoy DW US is recalibrating the power dynamic in East Mediterranean. Can South Asia be far behind? Indian Punchline (KW) Old Blighty Patrick Lawrence: The WestTechnocrats, Incompetents, Ideologues ScheerPost (RK) Brazil election goes to runoff as far-rights Jair Bolsonaro finishes close second to left-wing rival Lula SBS New Not-So-Cold War Notice that France, Germany, Italy & India, make more money from oil than the owners of the source themselves. The question is: how are they going to compensate for these hundreds of billions in fuel tax revenues every year once they go electric? #ElectricVehicles pic.twitter.com/AzgSzk7kXS Anas Alhajji (@anasalhajji) October 1, 2022 Certified organic acres declined in 2022 Food Business News Democrats en deshabille US supreme court to decide cases with monumental impact on democracy The Guardian (KW) 2022 US faces election worker shortage ahead of midterms due to rise in threats The Hill Blinken to woo Latin Americas new leftist leaders, reassert U.S. commitment Reuters The Fixers: Top U.S. flooring retailers linked to Brazilian firm probed for corruption Mongabay The Bezzle Imperial Collapse Watch Army misses recruiting goal; other services squeak by Stars and Stripes Class Warfare Antidote du jour (via): See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. Lambert here: And now for something completely different. By Jackie Higgins, who has worked for Oxford Scientific Films for over a decade, along with National Geographic, PBS Nova, and the Discovery Channel. She has also written, directed, and produced films at the BBC Science Department. Cross-posted from Alternet. To the ancient Greeks, the owl symbolized wisdom, but the Romans saw it as an evil omen. Their myths tell of an owl-like strix that stalked the night and preyed on human flesh. Ovids poem Fasti describes how such a demon slipped into the nursery of the sleeping prince Proca and was found hunched over the cradle, sucking the newborns blood. This supernatural owl changed over time. In Italian, strix became strega, meaning witch; in Romanian, strigoi is a vampire; and, in Macbeth, Shakespeare once more recast the owl as the fatal bellman whose shriek summons King Duncans death. Like its legendary counterparts, the great gray owl, Strix nebulosa, inhabits the shadows. It lives in the icy north, in the dense, dark conifer forests of Russia, Alaska, and Canada. By night, it hunts. Scythe-like talons and hooked, knife-sharp beak make the great gray owl a fearsome predator. By day, it stays hidden. Although one of the largest of its kind, its dusky and mottled plumage blends with the tree branches to atomize the birds silhouette, making it as nebulous and insubstantial as mist. Moreover, on a still moonlit night where snow blankets the landscape and deadens sound, the owl swoops on its quarry and barely breaks the silence. The quietness of the owls flight is unrivaled; its wing beat makes a sound so soft that it is nearly imperceptible. While weve known this for centuries, said Professor Nigel Peake of the University of Cambridge, what hasnt been known is how owls are able to fly in silence. His laboratory is one of a few around the world trying to learn from this avian acoustic stealth. For years, the focus had been the feathers along the wings leading and trailing edges. Those at the front have tiny stiff barbs that point forward like the teeth of a comb, whereas those at the back are flexible and fringed. They work together to break up, then smooth the air currents as they flow over and off the wing, damping down any noisy turbulence. Recently Peake homed in on a third element: the wings luxuriant touch. We were among the first to think about the aerodynamics of this velvet, he told me. In 2016, he collaborated with scientists in America for a closer look at the smooth surface of wings from various owl species, including the great gray. They saw that the birds primary feathers were covered with a millimeter of fine fluff. Microscope photographs of the down show it consists of hairs that form a structure similar to that of a forest, Peake explained. The hairs initially rise almost perpendicular to the feather surface but then bend over in the flow direction to form a canopy. This Lilliputian forest reduces pressure fluctuations and turbulence dramatically as the air flows over the wing. The researchers, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the U.S. Office of Naval Research, recreated this topography in plastic. Testing their prototype in a wind tunnel, they found it reduced sound so well that they patented the design. This discovery promises not simply stealthier surveillance aircraft or submarines but also a significant drop in everyday noise pollution from, say, wind turbines, computer fans, and even the passenger planes daily crisscrossing the planet. Owls have much to teach us about making our own world quieter, said Peake. No other birds have wings that scatter sound so their prey cant hear them coming. The great gray is neither seen nor heard, and this natural specter also seems endowed with a supernatural sense. From a distance of some 30 meters (100 feet), it can pinpoint mice or voles with uncanny precision, even those hidden beneath mounds of virgin snow. Scientific research has coaxed the owl from the shadows and restored her to Athene, the Greek goddess of wisdom. Through this creature, we learn what it means to hear: not simply to detect sounds but to create rich and perspectival soundscapes. We discover our talent for discerning whispers of whispers, then locating and layering them to build cathedrals of sound. The silent bird also guides us toward making this world a better place: whether through redesigning technology to subdue unwanted noise or improving the lives of those less fortunate. I am just as deaf as I am blind, wrote the American deaf-blind activist Helen Keller to her doctor in 1910. The problems of deafness are deeper and more complex, if not more important, than those of blindness. Deafness is a much worse misfortune. The owl sits on the shoulder of the blind, bearing the gift of earsight. One day, alongside her wider avian family, she may also offer others the gift of sound. This excerpt is from Sentient: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Human Senses, by Jackie Higgins (Atria Books, 2022) and was produced for the web by Earth | Food | Life, a project of the Independent Media Institute. By Lambert Strether of Corrente. When I recently posted on masking, I remarked that Id like to kick the CDCs twitching corpse. A little. This post does not cover the topic I had in mind for that happy task (why 3Ms respirator, designed in 2008 for just pandemics as our own, was never adopted), but in the course of writing that post, I encountered CDCs horrid About Covid 19 page, which provides a plethora of opportunities for putting the boot in, and better yet is affirmatively lethal to those who take it at face value. So I can have fun and do good. Dulce and utile, as the rhetoricians say. Readers, if you can, I ask you to read the CDC material that follows with an innocent eye. Imagine that you are a school administrator who has conscientiously gone to the worlds premier public health authority to understand how to protect the schools students, and you know nothing of Covid but what the CDC tells you. Or imagine yourself a parent, seeking to protect your family, again innocent of all knowledge of Covid. Or just an Average Citizen (AC), again, innocent. How would they read these pages? Put yourself in ACs shoes. NC readers know that #CovidIsAirborne. However, the Average Citizen does not, and when they come to CDC they will not find a coherent transmission paradigm, clearly and concisely expressed[1]. Instead, what AC will find is a mishmash, a farrago, or to use the French figure, un bordel of institutionally-, politically-, and class-driven paradigms that in fact compete and contradict; reading this material is like seeing Ptolemy and Copernicus jammed together into the same book. Normally, I would draw my conclusions after presenting my data, but this time I think Ill present CDCs implicit rules first, so you can match them up with what you read: Rule #1: airborne . Never use the word airborne. Rule #2: fomites. Legitimize fomite transmission as a possible form of Covid transmission. Rule #3: droplets. Legitimize droplet dogma, with droplets as the preferred form of Covid transmission. Rule #4: aerosols . CDC treats droplets and aerosols as a continuum. (A droplet is a loogie, even if small, as from sneezing. Its ballistic. It falls to the ground (hence CDCs focus on close contact). Aerosols are like cigarette smoke; they linger in the air for hours or even days. If you think cigarette smoke and loogies are two aspects of the same thing, you are thinking like the CDC. CDC has a lot of circumlocutions for aerosols; among them, respiratory droplets and viral particles.) Rule #5: asymptomatic . Never imply that asymptomatic infection is significant. But it is: Its not only the coughing and hacking people who are dangerous. Covid spreads before symptoms establish themselves, which is one reason its outsmarting us (see here, here, and here). Rule #6: masks . Never imply that masks are anything other than a personal choice. (Remember: Walensky believes, or at least says, that masks are a scarlet letter. Elites hate them.) Rule #7: vaccines. Vaccines rule. (Rules violations can be found. In an institution as sloppy and indifferent as CDC, this is only to be expected. However, as I shall show, these rules give an account of the material I read through, which surveys the high points of what I would do to protect myself and others,) This rest of this post will consist mainly of annotated screen shots of CDC web pages, starting from this top-level TOC. (I took the screen shots on my iPad, so your layout may vary.) I have highlighted the sections in the TOC that I will drill down into: (This TOC makes CDCs Covid material look more organized than it is. In fact, the entire section is a rats nest of interlinked pages, many of which dont appear in the TOC at all.) Prepare for close reading! Lets start with the About page: 1) CDC has been reviewing this guidance since January 2022. But apparently the review is not complete, or was never complete. 2) Rule #7: vaccines. 3) Rule #6: masks . Average Citizen AC, reading this, would quite reasonably conclude that no further reading was needed. The page hasnt been updated, and all you need is vaccines. In particular, no masks. An easy sell to the school board! How to Protect Yourself and Others: 1) On Community Levels, I will quote Water Cooler: 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 metric. The green map is still pervades this material. 2) IMNHSO, weekly reports are too infrequent when the virus is doubling. 3) Rule #2: fomites. 4) Rule #5: asymptomatic . Avoiding contact with only the symptomatic is not enough to project you. The obvious conclusion is that CDC should at least encourage universal masking. But by Rule #6: masks . Still on How to Protect Yourself and Others: 1) Rule #4: aerosols . Virus particles is a circumlocution for aerosol. AC sure doesnt think of a loogie as a particle. 2) Rule #4: aerosols . The virus spreads more easily indoors because aerosols float in the air and build up (unlike outdoors, where they dissipate). 3) Rule #4: aerosols . As much as? Come on. Do these people have CO2 meters?? UPDATE Dang. I missed that the diverse people in the artwork are not diverse with respect to mask-wearing. Still on How to Protect Yourself and Others: 1) Rule #5: asymptomatic . Avoiding contact with only the symptomatic is not enough to protect you. The obvious conclusion is that CDC should at least encourage universal masking. But by Rule #6: masks . Still on How to Protect Yourself and Others: 1) Community Levels once more. 2) Masks or Respirators (like apples or oranges). AC would, I think, come away from this section thinking that masks and respirators were two entirely different things. Frankly, I once thought respirators were like Darth Vader masks, or like gas masks (possibly through a sonic association with ventilator). But theyre not different things: I cant figure out what motivates this distinction, which plays out awkwardly all through this material. Perhaps simply a mischievous desire to obfuscate. Theyre all masks, so just as one says surgical mask, why not say respirator mask? 3) An earlooped mask on the female figure, which from the printing looks like a cloth mask with ear loops, ffs, with not even a Badger seal, and no masks on the children. Is it really too much to ask of CDC that their graphics reflect the most protective masking practice, rather than the leat? Transmission 1) Since this guidance has been under review sice July 12, theres apparently no reason to read further, and AC is a busy man. 2) This fancy image clicks through to the next screen (How COVID-19 Spreads) with no value add. So why is it here? 3) Omnicron and variants are off-point for Transmission. So why is this here? 4) The odious Community Levels once more. 5) Rule #5: asymptomatic . Since Covid spreads asymptomaticallly, wearing a mask only when you have symptoms places personal convenience over the needs of the community. 6) Putting Protect Yourself under How to Protect Youself seems odd. And the Protect Yourself clicks through to the same link at 2). So why are both here? How COVID-19 Spreads 1) Rule #3: droplets and Rule #4: aerosols . 2) Rule #2: fomites. 3) Why is this here? 4) FINALLY, buried deeply, we get the admission that Covid spread is asymptomatic (knocking the props from under all that advice about masking only when sick, or staying away coughing and sneezing people, and so on. Again, the policy recommendation should be at least to encourage universal masking, but of course by Rule #6, CDC cant do that. 5) Again, weekly is not enough when a surge is beginning. Ideal would be daily. Use and Care of Masks 1) So I guess respirators are masks. 2) Except theyre not. 3) Definitely not. 4) Buried down in the section, we FINALLY get a mention of a layered strategy (although ventilation is, naturally, missing). So why wasnt this on the about page? Because CDC doesnt really believe it, by Rule #7: vaccines. (See Note [1] for a layered strategy thats been thought through.) 5) The horrid community levels metric once more. 6) How, exactly, does the community decided? What is the community? A committee of hospital administrators? 7) Rule #6: masks . So, if people may choose to mask at any time (thanks), or presumably unmask or not mask at all, how on earth does the community decide anything? If masking is only a personal decision, forever and ever amen, then the community has no say or leverage at all. Types of Masks and Respirators 1) So I guess masks and respirators are apples and oranges again. 2) Ditto. And is the wearer the only concern? Still on Types of Masks and Respirators: I dont know who Key Messages is aimed at. Influencers, propagandists, administrators? Opinion-havers? 1) CDC tries to have it both ways. Everything up to this point, especially including graphics, has been straight Rule #6: masks . Now, buried deep in the Masks section why not, for pitys sake, on the About page, the first page AC sees, along with the 3Cs or a Swiss Cheese model of layered protection? we get a massive Rule #6 violation. Further, Any mask is better than no mask. But again, if thats true, theres no reason to reduce public> health to personal responsibility. There is such a thing as society. Now, CDC could try to solve this contradiction by producing some highly effective marketing collateral for masking to, er, nudge the non-maskers into masking. Im not seeing anything like that here. And Ive heard no proposal to do so. 2) Presumably the most protective mask includes respirators. 3) But no! 4) And no! 5) And no! 6) This paragraph is a copy-paste of material at 1). Apparently, nobodys copy-editing this section. Perhaps thats why the Rule #6 violation snuck in. Still on Types of Masks and Respirators: 1) Rule #3: droplets and Rule #4: aerosols . Theyve just gotta cram that word droplet in. Perhaps all that labor caused them to forget that besides spreading through breathing, aerosols also spread by talking, shouting, and singing. 2) Finally data AC can use. Note also the complete collapse of the mask/respirator distinction, since N95 (a respirator) is also a filtering mask. 3) On individuals may consider the situation, I cant even. I suppose this is another way of saying personal responsibility will take care of public health. Also, the paragraph should end with a semicolon to introduce the bulleted list. 4) Summarizing, masks are for proles: Bus drivers and grocery store workers, or people who take public transportation. Understanding Risk: 1) I love the assumption that everybody has a healthcare provider. And making a Covid plan is homework; the PMC love them their homework. Finally, this section reads as if the Rule #6 violations in Types of Masks and Respirators had never been. CDC has no notion that community or even (dread word) collective action could reduce the risk for those who have risk factors. 2) Naturally, the CDC asseses risk for age, race, and ethnicity. But not for class. So the bus drivers and grovery workers' are S.O.L. Conclusion From the Miami Herald, Now that the CDC has abandoned us, its up to medical professionals to keep us safe from COVID: With a one-two punch, the Biden administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have tossed tens of millions of Americans at high risk of death and disability from COVID-19 into a sea of contagion without any clear guidance for infection prevention and control. After President Bidens thoughtless remark that the pandemic is over, the CDC announced days later a quiet undermining of COVID-19 protections in hospitals and nursing homes: the end of universal masking recommendations for healthcare settings. Ordinary Americans who cannot afford to be ill and that is truly tens of millions of us now have to appeal directly to Americas working medical professionals: Please make your medical offices safe for us to enter by using N95 masks and top-rated HEPA air filtration. Too many of us are at risk to become severely ill, develop chronic illness or die if we catch COVID-19, even if we are newly boosted. I would use stronger words than thoughtless and quiet undermining. When I say crimes against humanity, Im really not kidding. From the Encyclopedia Brittanica: The term also has a broader use in condemning other acts that, in a phrase often used, shock the conscience of mankind. World poverty, human-made environmental disasters, and terrorist attacks have thus been described as crimes against humanity. The broader use of the term may be intended only to register the highest possible level of moral outrage, or the intention may be to suggest that such offenses be recognized, formally, as legal offenses. The Center for Diseases Covid documentation entraps the innocent into making decisions that will be lethal for them and for others. Thats a crime that shocks the conscience. An innocent would read the About page, and decide that all thats required is vaccination. But since the vaccines we have dont prevent transmission, that decision would condemn others to neurological and vascular damage, not to mention Long Covid. An innocent, reading the CDCs obfuscations on masks vs. respirators, never having clicked enough levels deep to find out that the N95 is a mask, might well buy a package of less protective masks, again infecting themselves and others. An innocent, who missed CDCs buried admission that Covid transmits asymptomatically, might well mask up only in the presence of the sick (coughing, sneezing), again infecting themselves or others. An innocent, who believed CDCs Community Levels metric, not understanding that CDC designed it to protect hospitals, not dull normals, would take protective measures and adopt a layered strategy days or weeks too late, infecting themselves or others. An innocent bus driver or grocery worker might look to CDC to alleviate their plight, to provide some data on issues particular to their work situation. But such hopes would be foolish, wouldnt they? But to me, CDCs worst crime is not to place a coherent transmission paradigm right on their About page. Then people could figure out what measures to take. Instead, we get a grotesque gallimaufry of fomites, droplets, and various euphemisms for aerosols. This matters, because while CDC prattles on about personal responsibility, they deny innocents the very concepts they need to take responsibility. We still have people wiping down shopping cart handles while buying groceries unmasked, and innocents will get infected and some will die because of that. Those people are trying to do the right thing. But because of CDC, theyre doing the wrong thing. We still have people carefully following cough etiquette, worrying about loogies when they should be worrying about aerosols, and innocents will get infected and some will die because of that. Those people, too, are trying to do the right thing. But because of CDC, theyre doing the wrong thing. We have a slow-moving massacre of the innocents on our hands, and I wish it were possible to make CDC pay for its crimes. NOTES [1] Some clear and precised guidance. From Japan, the 3Cs policy: And better yet, USCs version of the Swiss Cheese model I like especially that USC has masks on the personal responsibility side, and mask enforcements on the USC Actions (community) side. This is what CDC is unwilling to do. (Natural News) Nobody pushes harder to reduce the worlds population with science than creepy billionaire science nerd Bill Gates. Anything created in a laboratory is game for Bill Gates saving the world from the blights of starvation, climate change, too many children, and so on. In his ultimate nerd way, Bill tries to seem hip and cool in his latest genetically mutated corn video, where he lip-syncs to a cartoon-like voice about corn and corn juice. Gates owns more US farm land than anyone, about a quarter-million acres (thats larger than New York City) spanning 18 states, so he wants to grow only his corn, and no other kind ever again. Remember, GM corn proven unsafe for human consumption in chronic toxicity study from 2012 How easily the world forgot, or never even knew about, the Seralini study on genetically modified corn that was conducted with the utmost stringent and accepted scientific standards, proving long-term damage to animals that consumed GM corn. Lab rats were dying from horrendous tumors in their cleansing organs after just a few months, and the Monsanto industrial complex spent years trying to discredit the study and Seralinis team so the world wouldnt know the truth about Frankencorn. Ten years later, the propaganda continues. Bill Gates is smiling and singing corn songs like Frankenstein high on his own riches and power, begging the world to ask him about corn, so he can pretend hes going to save the world with pesticide-laden Frankenfood. Gates wants every human on earth eating only corn and meat made in laboratories, and getting vaccinated with clot shots that spread toxic prions throughout the vascular system. This is the same guy who said (at a TED conference in 2010) that if we do a really great job with vaccines and healthcare, we can REDUCE the worlds population by several billion people. Fake global warming cant hurt Bill Gates lab-concocted corn The infamous Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation wants to save the world with lab-concocted Frankencorn, sterilizing vaccinations, and gender-fluid equality. This could mean that the future of humans involves everyone suffering from cancer, infertility and gender-confusion, while the fourth richest person in the world eats organic food in his bunker, while making creepy kid videos about corn and depopulation. Gates calls corn seeds that kill lab animals magic seeds and claims his hybrid seeds can resist the global-scorching-sun and alleviate third-world hunger. The Frankenseeds are called DroughtTEGO and were developed under a program of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation, to which Gates contributes funds. Gates envisions a world where everyone is poor and eating lab-concocted-jelly-meat (Memphis Meats) made from livestock cells, with a side of pesticide-infused Frankencorn, at every meal. The truth is that Bill Gates GM Assistance program and all this chemical food cultivation is not sustainable. Organic farming methods produce HIGHER crop yields and are far more sustainable, according to research, than any of these Frankencrops that are created in Monsantos labs. Organic crops are STILL the safest and most nutritious crops available, but Bill Biotech Gates couldnt care less. The more farmers use toxic herbicides and carcinogenic insecticides, the more the soil gets depleted of nutrients and the more toxic waste water spreads to surrounding farmland and communities. The corporate takeover of the worlds crops is a hostile takeover and must be stopped. Avoid Frankencorn and Frankensoy like the plague, because they just may prove to be just that. Tune your food news frequency to FoodSupply.news and get updates on more toxic foods and food shortages coming to stores near you. Sources for this article include: TheGatewayPundit.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Europeans who think the current mounting (and worsening) energy crisis on the continent is only going to last this coming winter will need to think again, according to a new analysis of the situation. Writing at OilPrice.com, Tsvetana Paraskova noted that European governments are currently racing against time to stock up on fossil fuel-based energy ahead of winter after ditching Russian oil and natural gas following Moscows invasion of Ukraine. When then-President Donald Trump lambasted Europe for being too dependent on Russia for its energy, he was mocked and derided, but as usual, Trump was right. But even as it appears that European countries will manage to scrape by this winter, due to huge shifts in the global oil market those same countries will face a repeat situation next winter and, perhaps, the following winter as well. The United States could ramp up its investment in plentiful oil and gas resources and more than make up the difference in Europes loss of Russian energy, but the Biden regime is beholden to the lunatic climate change wing of the Democratic Party, so thats out. This is not a one winter story, lets just make it very, very clear, Amrita Sen, founder and director of research at Energy Aspects, told Bloomberg Television in an interview late last week. Paraskova adds: The energy crisis is already pushing Germany Europes biggest economy into a recession, which will deepen as we head into the winter months amid the ongoing natural gas and energy crisis, Bundesbank, the central bank of Germany, said in its monthly report earlier this week. Germany also moved this week to nationalize its biggest gas importer, Uniper, to prevent a collapse of the German energy and gas suppliers. Across Europe, industries are forced to curb or shut down production due to soaring energy prices, and several European industry associations say the European Commissions proposals to reduce energy prices and help households and businesses through the crisis are not enough to help them survive the winter. In remarks regarding the current oil market, Sen told Bloomberg that it is very likely going to experience an extremely volatile final quarter of 2022, a year that, thus far, has seen the second-highest volatility since 1990 and the highest since the 2020 global pandemic-related slowdown. We are expecting much higher prices into year-end, she said, adding that her firms call is for oil prices to rise to around $120 a barrel by the end of December. A recent Citi Global Wealth letter to investors also noted other market instability, caused in part by fluctuating energy prices. Markets are deeply unsettled A rapid change of weather for the economy appears on the horizon 10% [chance] of Robust [economic conditions], 20% Resilient, and 70% Recession[The Fed is moving] so fast that the impact of their tactics is not apparent, the note said. How much tightening can the economy endure before credit costs rise and credit availability falls dangerously? [T]he Feds medicine will have intended and unintended consequences. Its ability to counter mistakes will diminish over time The case for a recession or stall in the economy in 2023 is quite strong and rising, it added. Meanwhile, in the U.S., gasoline prices have started to rise again in much of the country, climbing 3.2 cents from a week ago, according to new GasBuddy data published on Monday. The national average for a gallon of gasoline in the U.S. rose to $3.67 on Monday, the data show, while diesel fuel prices continued to fall. I dont know that Ive ever seen a wider gamut of price behaviors coast to coast in my career, the head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy said in a note on Monday. A slew of unexpected refinery disruptions, including fires and routine maintenance, have seemingly all happened in a short span of time, causing wholesale gas prices to spike in areas of the West Coast, Great Lakes and Plains states and some of those areas could see prices spike another 25-75 cents per gallon or more until issues are worked out. Sources include: OilPrice.com ForwardObserver.com (Natural News) Our governing systems continue their hard-left, anti-freedom, Marxist shift, which is leading to the development of a parallel system that conservatives are flocking to. For decades, the federal government at every level has been infiltrated by left-wing ideologues who are authoritarian by their very nature, and now the Federal Reserve is joining the fray. As reported by investigative journalist Jordan Schachtel on his Substack, the Fed has taken a major step in the direction of facilitating an ESG compliant monetary network that effectively acts as a parallel system to that of the Chinese Communist Partys infamous social credit scoring system. ESG which stands for Environment, Social, and Governance in investing refers to a set of standards for a companys behavior used by socially conscious investors to screen potential investments, according to Investopedia. What that means in practice, of course, is that regardless of the potential for earning profits for shareholders, which banks and corporations are beholden by law to always strive for, these institutions instead only invest in politically correct industries and sectors. No fossil fuels, for instance, as oil and gas are so early 2000s; no big tobacco; and nothing that has anything to do with Israel, just to name a few (because the hard left is comprised of true bigots and racists). Six of the nations largest banks will participate in a pilot climate scenario analysis exercise designed to enhance the ability of supervisors and firms to measure and manage climate-related financial risks, the Fed noted in a statement last week. Scenario analysisin which the resilience of financial institutions is assessed under different hypothetical climate scenariosis an emerging tool to assess climate-related financial risks, and there will be no capital or supervisory implications from the pilot. In short, Schachtel said, the Federal Reserve is working with the big banks to monitor their ability to comply with the ruling classs preferred enviro statist technocratic tyranny. He goes on to say that the unaccountable, unelected bureaucrats at the Fed who are responsible for this new exercise claim it is only exploratory in nature and does not have capital consequences. The statement from the nations money printer also said that the scenario analysis can assist firms and supervisors in understanding how climate-related financial risks may manifest and differ from historical experience. Then, why bother with this exercise at all? Whats the real purpose behind it? As Schachtel explains, there is always a statist purpose behind everything the American deep state does: The Fed is clearly leaning in to the climate hoax narrative, or the pseudoscientific idea that humans are catastrophically impacting the climate, but not because they somehow care about the environment. The climate narrative is the chief rhetorical facilitator for the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) movement. ESG acts as a trojan horse for the continuing centralization of the American financial system. ESG finance, popularized by hyper political asset management behemoths like BlackRock and Vanguard, acts to prevent outsiders from challenging the regime-connected insiders on Wall Street and in Washington, under the guise of acting to manifest a healthier planet. In short, institutions that are all-in for ESG essentially commit themselves to further attacking and eroding our founding free-market principles through deception, instead preferring Chinese communist-style stakeholder capitalism that empowers a small group of uber-elites and technocrats to make important decisions and broad determinations for all of society writ large. Schachtel goes on to point out that he isnt surprised that the mainstream media is cheering on the Feds tyrannical plan. The New York Times, the ringleader for the statist media, reported that it often lagged behind its global peers when it comes to talking about and coming up with a plan for policing risks related to climate change. Note that the Times deferential position is that the U.S. should behave like all other nations, running in lockstep with them, policywise, not doing what is best for Americans. No wonder these people hate Donald Trump so much he literally opposed every authoritarian tendency they have. Sources include: Dossier.Substack.com Investopedia.com (Natural News) The U.S. Armys first openly trans officer and her spouse have been charged in a bizarre case involving an attempt to pass along secret information to Russia. The officer, who has been identified as 39-year old Major Jamie Lee Henry, and wife Anna Gabrielian, who works at Johns Hopkins hospital, were arrested after stealing medical information on troops from Fort Bragg and trying to pass it off to the Russian government. The pair was accused of using their secret security clearance at North Carolinas Fort Bragg to steal the records from the bases hospital, according to the Department of Justice in a statement. Not long ago, Henry was feted as the U.S. Armys first transgender (in this case, male to female) officer, though according to reports, Henry is repeatedly referred to using male pronouns in the indictment. The couple, who live in Rockville, Md., was caught in an FBI sting with the classified materials. Afterward, they were formally indicted on charges of conspiracy and wrongful disclosure of individually identifiable information. They believed that they were about to hand off the stolen records to a Russian official who turned out to be an FBI agent, reports noted. Another strange aspect of the case is that there is an angle involving Russias war against Ukraine, as noted by CNBC: Prosecutors said the couple, 39-year-old Maj. Jamie Lee Henry, and Johns Hopkins Hospital anesthesiologist Anna Gabrielian, 36, aimed to help Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. But the person who ended up receiving medical information from them turned out to be an undercover FBI agent, not a Russian Embassy employee as the couple had been led to believe, prosecutors said. Henry in 2015 was reported to be the first known active-duty Army officer to come out as transgender. While she identifies herself as a woman, the indictment repeatedly refers to Henry by male pronouns. The report also said that the couple was motivated in their actions by patriotism towards Russia: Gabrielian agreed to meet the agent in a Baltimore hotel room on Aug. 17, the indictment says. Later that same day, she called the agent to reaffirm the couple were committed to helping Russia, the indictment alleges. During the meeting, Gabrielian told the FBI agent she was motivated by patriotism toward Russia to provide any assistance she could to Russia, even if it meant being fired or going to jail, the indictment says. Equity in treason achieved! Americas first trans Army officer charged with spying for Russia https://t.co/ZpBx6edTiq Not the Bee (@Not_the_Bee) September 29, 2022 The Justice Department indicated in the indictment that the couple had made plans to flee the United States with their kids. Gabrilelian suggested a cover story for their interactions, and a plan for Gabrielian and Henrys children flee the US quickly if Gabrielian and Henry were told to act in a way that could expose their communications and actions to the US government, it said. Gabrielian and Henry met with an individual they believed to be associated with the Russian government, but who was, in fact, a Federal Bureau of Investigation Undercover Agent (UC), in order to convey to the UC their commitment to aid Russia, and to discuss ways in which they could help the Russian government, the DOJ press release noted further. Gabrielian told the UC that she had previously reached out to the Russian embassy by email and phone, offering Russia her and her husbands assistance. Gabrielian told the UC that, although Henry knew of Gabrielians interaction with the Russian Embassy, she never mentioned Henrys name to the Russian Embassy. Gabrielian wanted to make sure Henry could deny any knowledge of her actions, it added. Sources include: Justice.gov CNBC.com (Natural News) An analysis that imagined what an evacuation in Florida ahead of the deadly, devastating Hurricane Ian would have looked like if most residents were driving electric vehicles is enough to horrify any rational person. The hurricane, which slammed into the Gulf Coast of the Sunshine State on Wednesday near the Ft. Myers area, left in its wake massive damage, flooding and death. Fortunately for residents, GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis and state emergency officials warned them more than a week ago what a monster Ian was developing into and for those in the storms path to get out. But had most residents been saddled with electric vehicles that are using current technologies and infrastructure, as bad as the hurricane was, the disaster would have been even greater. Simply put, vast numbers of residents who would have tried to escape the storm would have likely been stranded on highways, out of power for their vehicles, and out of hope. It is fortunate that as of the current moment, electric vehicles constitute only about 100,000, out of nearly 8 million vehicles registered to drive on Floridas roads. What if they all were electric, the (impractical) dream of greenies? Thomas Lifton wrote. He added: Depending on how heavily loaded they were, even assuming everyone had a full battery charge, cars from southern Florida would start running out of juice after 100 250 miles. They would then have to spend hours at recharging stations, which would rapidly be clogged with other cars and trucks waiting their turn, since an electricity fill up can easily take an hour or more, as compared to a couple of minutes for gasoline. Cars waiting to be charged would spill onto the highways, potentially blocking traffic. Those cars that ran out of juice on the highway would block traffic. Even assuming that emergency service vehicles could get to them (unlikely if the entire fleet were electric cars), towing a portable generator (powered by fossil fuels, of course) and recharging the stalled vehicles would take plenty of time, as well, further blocking traffic. The stranded cars would, of course, have no air conditioning, no wipers, no GPS. The reality is, Lifton opined, highways would no doubt become nothing but long parking lots with passengers trapped wherever their EVs ran out of power. They would be exposed to the ravages of the storm as well as flooding from the storm surges and massive amounts of rain being dropped. There would be nowhere to escape. It is a nightmare scenario, and it is perfectly predictable. California and other states have already mandated a conversion to an all-electric vehicle fleet, he added. When natural disaster strikes and the fleet is electric vehicles, the disaster will be compounded if this mad scheme is carried through. The fact is, for the foreseeable future, electric vehicles are not going to be practical for any kind of long-distance travel. Despite the distances being advertised by the car companies of between 180-350 miles, the fact is most EVs will only go an average of 100 or so miles before needing to be recharged which, again, will take a considerable amount of time. Think of your cell phone when youre using it a lot: The more you text or the longer you video chat, the quicker the phone becomes drained of power. EVs will not be any different; playing a radio, using headlights, using wipers, and utilizing air conditioning or heating will drain power from the batteries far faster than those devices drain fuel tanks in cars with internal combustion engines. The fact is, the globalist elite dont care about climate change, they care about control, and thats why they want everyone to drive an electric vehicle they know we wont be able to travel very far with one and they can keep us all corralled in easily controlled cities. Liftons nightmare scenario of trying to escape a deadly storm should convince everyone to push back on this EV nonsense. Sources include: AmericanThinker.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) A startling report published earlier this week by Politico admitted what a growing number of Westerners and especially Americans have suspected for quite some time: The world literally is being run by Microsoft founder Bill Gates. According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, the story essentially noted these main points: The Sept. 14 Politico special report was based on interviews with four dozen U.S. and European officials as well as global health officials who admitted that the global COVID-19 response is being run by a computer nerd who made his fortune building substandard computer platforms; A quad of health organizations The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, GAVI, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the Wellcome Trust quickly took over the global response to the pandemic, and while they all claim that they are independent groups, in fact, they were all either founded by or are funded by Gates himself; As the outbreak first began to spread, the Gates Foundation, GAVI, CEPI, and the Wellcome Trust started to coordinate their actions such as identifying vaccine makers while funding vax tests, drug treatments and mRNA injections, while also putting together a global distribution system in a collaboration with the World Health Organization but they failed to actually meet their own objectives on all fronts; Again, Gates is a computer nerd and is not at all qualified to make global health recommendations, let alone take the lead in a global pandemic response; Whats more, Gates has never been elected to represent the public in general or Americans in particular. The idea that Bill Gates exerts undue influence over global health has consistently been denied and dismissed as a loony conspiracy theory. But as with so many other things, this conspiracy theory is now turning out to be a conspiracy fact, Mercola reported, noting that the Politico piece was originally titled, How Bill Gates and His Partners Took Over the Global COVID Response. However, as noted by Igor Chudov on Substack, the headline was later changed to read: How Four Private Groups Used Their Clout to Control the Global COVID Response With Little Oversight. Here is a screenshot from Chudov: Mercola noted that, for some reason, Politico changed the headline again, and it now reads: How Bill Gates and partners used their clout to control the global Covid response with little oversight. While the most powerful nations looked inward, four non-governmental global health organizations began making plans for a life-or-death struggle against a virus that would know no boundaries, Politico reported, adding: What followed was a steady, almost inexorable shift in power from the overwhelmed governments to a group of non-governmental organizations, according to a seven-month investigation by the outlet reporters in the U.S. and Europe, in conjunction with the German newspaper WELT. Armed with expertise, bolstered by contacts at the highest levels of Western nations and empowered by well-grooved relationships with drug makers, the four organizations took on roles often played by governments but without the accountability of governments, the report continued. To date, the four groups have collectively spent around $10 billion on COVID since 2020, more than enough to make several individuals involved very rich. That includes some $1.4 billion given to the WHO, which hid the fact that China was responsible for both developing COVID and its spread around the world. The organizations leaders had unprecedented access to the highest levels of governments, spending at least $8.3 million to lobby lawmakers and officials in the U.S. and Europe, Politico noted in a key takeaway from its lengthy story. Officials from the U.S., EU and representatives from the WHO rotated through these four organizations as employees, helping them solidify their political and financial connections in Washington and Brussels. Kate Elder, senior vaccines policy adviser for the Doctors Without Borders Access Campaign, asked one obvious question: What makes Bill Gates qualified to be giving advice and advising the U.S. government on where they should be putting the tremendous resources? The answer is always the same: Money that is used not for good but to purchase access and influence. Sources include: TakeControl.Substack.com Politico.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) The head of the North American Treaty Organization (NATO) has formally blamed damage done to a pair of Russian-owned natural gas pipelines on sabotage, though an increasing number of analysts believe that the organizations most powerful member the United States was responsible. The statement, from the North Atlantic Council, the decision-making body of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, didnt provide details or evidence, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday after the statement was released. It also noted that the damage to the pipelines occurred in international waters. But it marks the first time the alliance has formally warned that it would deter and defend against attacks on its members critical infrastructure following the now four documented leaks in the Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 pipelines, the WSJ reported further. Separately on Twitter, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg wrote that the damage to the pipelines is of deep concern to the alliance, while also threatening a response if any Western infrastructure is targeted. NATO is committed to deter and defend against hybrid attacks, he said, the WSJ noted. Any deliberate attack against Allies critical infrastructure would be met with a united and determined response. The sabotage of the Nordstream pipelines is of deep concern. #NATO is committed to deter and defend against hybrid attacks. Any deliberate attack against Allies critical infrastructure would be met with a united and determined response. https://t.co/XSiqWK20xF Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) September 29, 2022 The outlet continued: At a NATO meeting Wednesday evening, Danish officials said the pipelines were damaged by several explosions Monday with the force of 500 kilograms of TNT (about 1,100 pounds), officials familiar with the discussions said. Swedish and Danish authorities said Thursday that a total of four leakstwo in the waters of each countryhad been verified. The Swedish Coast Guard said the fourth leakthe second in Swedish waters-was discovered earlier this week around the same time as the first. The second leak is smaller, and emissions from that leak are weakening, according to the agencys ongoing surveillance of the site. The Biden regime on Thursday vehemently denied that it had anything to do with the sabotage, though Joe Biden and State Department official Victoria Nuland had both vowed to take out the pipeline if Russian President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine. There is no evidence or indication the US was involved in any way with the Nordstream 2 pipeline explosions. My question at the Pentagon briefing today: Can you rule out that the U.S. was involved? Senior Military Official: Yeah, we were absolutely not involved. Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) September 28, 2022 No evidence or indication? You mean other than @UnderSecStateP and @POTUS specifically saying in advance that they would not allow the Nord Stream pipeline to go through if Russia invaded Ukraine? another user tweeted along with a video clip of State Dept. official Victoria Neuland appearing to threaten destruction of the pipelines if Russia attacked Ukraine. No evidence or indication? You mean other than @UnderSecStateP and @POTUS specifically saying in advance that they would not allow the Nord Stream pipeline to go through if Russia invaded Ukraine? https://t.co/pcstc00AmC pic.twitter.com/7fRBCnDEG0 Viva Frei (@thevivafrei) September 28, 2022 This is the president who has declared climate change the most pressing emergency in the history of the world. This is the man who lectures you about using a woodstove or driving an SUV because of its emissions, Fox News host Tucker Carlson said earlier this week after playing clips of Biden and Nuland making their threats. This is the guy who spent billions trying to mitigate cow flatulence because methane. Would that guy really blow up a methane pipeline in the middle of the Baltic Sea? It was hard to imagine. That would be an unimaginably reckless act. That would be the kind of thing you would do if you wanted to start a nuclear war. It would be insane. And yet in retrospect, its obvious they were thinking about this because Joe Biden wasnt the only person to suggest it, he added. WATCH: Meanwhile, a new Polish pipeline bringing Norwegian natural gas to the continent via Denmark is expected to begin operations sooner than its expected November launch date. Probably just a coincidence. Sources include: WSJ.com BizPacReview.com NotesFromPoland.com (Natural News) You can always tell how important narrative control is by watching the way people react when their control of the narrative is jeopardized. (Article by Caitlin Johnstone republished from CaityJohnstone.Medium.com) Empire apologists are raging at Amnesty International for pausing its aggressive facilitation of western imperialism to issue one brief criticism of the way Ukrainian forces have been endangering civilian lives with their warfare tactics against the Russian military. Amnesty is far from the first to highlight this extensively documented issue; that Ukrainian forces have been deliberately positioning themselves in civilian populations without taking proper measures to protect noncombatants is a concern that has been voiced repeatedly since the war began and reported on by both mainstream western news outlets and the United Nations. Nevertheless, Amnestys claim 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 has drawn fire from Ukrainian officials, from mass media pundits, from the brainwashed rank-and-file on social media, and from President Zelensky himself. Incredible seeing Amnesty attacked for documenting what every minimally independent observer has from the start. See e.g. Washington Post, March 28 on Ukraines strategy of placing heavy military equipment and other fortifications in civilian zones. https://t.co/vu3v3UCdIqhttps://t.co/v0qy2ehVLV Aaron Mate (@aaronjmate) August 6, 2022 A common criticism circulating among the outrage is that Amnesty is facilitating Russian propaganda, has been influenced by Russian propaganda, or has itself become an instrument of Russian propaganda. The head of Amnesty Internationals Ukrainian branch resigned as a result of the report, saying that the organization created material that sounded like support for Russian narratives and that in an effort to protect civilians, this study became a tool of Russian propaganda. It is a shame that the organization like Amnesty is participating in this disinformation and propaganda campaign, tweeted Zelensky advisor Mykhailo Podolyak. Amnesty International can go to hell for this garbage, tweeted Human Rights Foundation Chairman Garry Kasparov. Or go to Ukraine, which Putins war is trying to turn into hell. As with their actions on Navalny, it reeks of Russian influence turning Kremlin propaganda into Amnesty statements. The Daily Mail called the Amnesty report a coup for Vladimir Putins propaganda machine. The organization gives a huge assist to Russian propaganda, tweeted Oleksiy Sorokin, chief operating officer of the NATO propaganda outlet Kyiv Independent. Shameful victim-blaming. Russia invaded Ukraine and is committing unspeakable war crimes there. Please do not amplify Russian lies, tweeted Paul Massaro of the US governments Helsinki Commission. Pathetic. Amnesty International can go to hell for this garbage. Or go to Ukraine, which Putins war is trying to turn into hell. As with their actions on Navalny, it reeks of Russian influence turning Kremlin propaganda into Amnesty statements. https://t.co/KOC0S0NJOt Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) August 4, 2022 The underlying premise behind these complaints, of course, is that it is Amnesty Internationals job to help Ukraine win a propaganda campaign against Russia. Which is odd, because Amnestys reporting on the war has actually been overwhelmingly biased in favor of Ukraine this entire time. Anger directed at Amnesty is surprising given that it is the first critical piece the group has written on Ukraine since the war began, reports Unherd. Over the last six months, Amnesty has published 40 articles on Ukraine, nearly all of which condemn Russias invasion, with only one exception its latest that could be conceivably described as critical of Ukraine. Even the Amnesty report currently sparking all the outrage contains repeated condemnations of Russias actions in Ukraine, citing indiscriminate attacks by Russian forces and war crimes Amnesty has found Russia guilty of committing, as well as decrying the use of inherently indiscriminate weapons, including internationally banned cluster munitions. But even ninety-nine percent loyalty to the official line is not enough for imperial spinmeisters and the empires useful idiots. Anything short of 100 percent compliance counts as Russian propaganda. Zelensky now implies that Amnesty International has now fallen under the spell of Kremlin propaganda for pointing out the obvious that Western press would not report & that is Ukrainian forces have been using civilians as shields. Ajamu Baraka (@ajamubaraka) August 5, 2022 But thats precisely the notion that has been drummed into western consciousness with ever-increasing fervor since 2016: that any dissent about US foreign policy is Russian propaganda. Dont support western interventionism in Syria? Youre spouting Russian propaganda. Worried about nuclear war? Russian propaganda. Dont think the fight for US unipolar domination is worth all this dangerous brinkmanship? Russian propaganda. Dont like the idea of an expensive proxy war with no exit strategy whose economic fallout is making life harder and harder for more and more people all around the world? Russian propaganda. I myself am accused of being a peddler of Russian propaganda many times per day, and have been for years. This despite my hardly ever consuming Russian media, never receiving a penny from Russia, and never having worked for the Russian government or any other government at any time. Russian media have at times chosen of their own initiative to amplify my work since I have a standing invitation for anyone to do so, but Im literally just an Australian woman writing her opinions online with her American husband. I only qualify as Russian propaganda because I disagree with US foreign policy. Ask anyone who says a criticism of the western empires Ukraine policy is Russian propaganda to name a critic of western Ukraine policy who they dont consider a Russian propagandist. They wont be able to. For them, disagreeing with ones government about Ukraine is itself Russian propaganda. For empire apologists the measure of what constitutes Russian propaganda about Ukraine has nothing to do with whether or not whats being said is true or valid; its literally just a question of obedience to ones government about the decisions its been making with regard to that nation. So the @amnesty basically accused Ukraine of endangering civilians by continuing to resist Russian advances. The organization gives a huge assist to Russian propaganda. Oleksiy Sorokin (@mrsorokaa) August 4, 2022 If the measure of whether something qualifies as propaganda is defined entirely by whether it agrees with ones government, then that measure is itself propaganda. Thats exactly whats happening with criticism of the wests interventionism in Ukraine. Something doesnt have to come from Russia to be considered Russian propaganda, and its source doesnt need to have any connection to the Russian government. It doesnt even have to be false. All it needs to be is disobedient. We saw this illustrated this past June when The Guardian published a NATO-backed claim that journalist Aaron Mate was the most prolific spreader of disinformation among a Russia-backed network of Syria conspiracy theorists, despite being incapable of citing a single false thing in Mates Syria reporting, and despite The Guardian having to hastily edit out their Russia-backed claim. We also saw this illustrated this past June in a University of Calgary briefing paper on disinformation about the war in Ukraine which warns about five primary narratives being circulated online: Implying NATO expansionism legitimizes the Russian invasion Portraying NATO as an aggressive alliance using Ukraine as a proxy against Russia Promoting a general mistrust in institutions and elites Suggesting that Ukraine is a fascist state or has extensive fascist influences Promoting a specific mistrust of Canadas Liberal government, and especially of Prime Minister Trudeau There are arguments of varying strengths to be made for every one of those points, but more importantly it is self-evident that all of them are matters of opinion and none of them meet any sane definition of disinformation. They also cant in and of themselves rightly be called either Russian or propaganda. We are moving into a situation where dissent from officially sanctioned opinion can be pathologized & criminalised. Pressures for increasing censorship of dissenting opinion are becoming normalised. Academics should be resisting this, not assisting it.https://t.co/R1tRb34D6W Tim Hayward (@Tim_Hayward_) July 31, 2022 Russian propaganda certainly exists, and the Russian government certainly has a vested interest in influencing western thought in its strategic favor to whatever extent it is capable. But its capability is very, very limited, especially compared to the exponentially greater influence that western institutions have over our minds. Russia has a few trolls and some media outlets that were barely viewed by westerners even before they were banned; the US-centralized empire has the billionaire media, Silicon Valley, Hollywood, and the education system. Comparing the two is like comparing a candle to the sun, and the sun aint Russia. But thats the one whose influence over our minds were meant to worry about. In reality we are swimming in propaganda that is favorable to the US empire our entire lives; its so ubiquitous that people dont even notice it. Claiming your support for US foreign policy on an issue has nothing to do with being propagandized is like someone who was raised in the Westboro Baptist Church claiming it was pure coincidence that he happens to agree with the church on the sinfulness of homosexuality. It pervades our minds and shapes our society, but they want us all freaking out about the virtually nonexistent problem of Russian propaganda. This is a thought-killing dynamic, and it is a major problem. It is not good that propaganda is shoved into our minds manufacturing consent for dangerous escalations between the worlds two greatest nuclear powers while anyone who opposes any part of it is dismissed as a Russian propagandist or a useful idiot of the Kremlin. Ten Times Empire Managers Showed Us That They Want To Control Our Thoughts The single most under-appreciated aspect of our society is the fact that immensely powerful people are continuously working to manipulate the thoughts we think about our world.https://t.co/s9gIfQGb39 Caitlin Johnstone (@caitoz) May 29, 2022 We should be using our minds more at this critical juncture, but these dynamics put in place by imperial narrative managers have instead got us using them a lot less. Old joke: A Russian and an American get on a plane in Moscow and get to talking. The Russian says he works for the Kremlin and hes on his way to go learn American propaganda techniques. What American propaganda techniques? asks the American. Exactly, the Russian replies. Read more at: CaityJohnstone.Medium.com (Natural News) Scientists and astronomers looking for any way to sustain life on any of the planets nearest to Earth have made a new stunning discovery regarding Mars. According to the UKs Daily Mail, scientists believe they have discovered new evidence that liquified water may be under the surface of the red planet. The University of Cambridge-led study provides the first independent evidence that uses data other than radar that theres liquid water beneath Mars south polar ice cap, the outlet reported, adding that if true, its very possible that the planet once supported some forms of life. Notes Dr. Frances Butcher, the second author of the University of Sheffield research effort, in a statement: This study gives the best indication yet that there is liquid water on Mars today because it means that two of the key pieces of evidence we would look for when searching for subglacial lakes on Earth have now been found on Mars. Liquid water is an essential ingredient for life, although it does not necessarily mean that life exists on Mars, she noted further in a statement. In order to be liquid at such cold temperatures, the water beneath the south pole might need to be really salty, which would make it difficult for any microbial life to inhabit it, her statement continued. However, it does give hope that there were more habitable environments in the past when the climate was less unforgiving. DailyMail.com noted further that the international research team, which was also staffed by scientists from the University of Nantes and University College Dublin, employed spacecraft laser-altimeter measurements of the makeup of the upper ice cap surface in order to find subtle height patterns. The outlet reported further: They then showed that these patterns match computer model predictions for how a body of water beneath the ice cap would affect the surface. Mars has thick water ice caps at both of its poles, like Earth, which are roughly equivalent in combined volume to the Greenland Ice Sheet. However, unlike Earths ice sheets, which have large subglacial lakes and water channels beneath them, Mars polar ice caps have been thought to be frozen solid all the way to their bedrock due to the Red Planets frigid climate. Temperatures on Mars average a bone-chilling -81 degrees Fahrenheit but can drop as low as -220 degrees Fahrenheit in winter at the poles. This most recent research, which was published last week in the journal Nature Astronomy, coincides with previous findings using ice-penetrating radar that were originally believed to have displayed an area that potentially holds water beneath the ice. The combination of the new topographic evidence, our computer model results and the radar data make it much more likely that at least one area of subglacial liquid water exists on Mars today, and that Mars must still be geothermally active in order to keep the water beneath the ice cap liquid, explained Prof. Neil Arnold of the Cambridge Scott Polar Research Institute, who led the research team. The researchers used several techniques in order to come up with their findings, including NASAs Mars Global Surveyor satellite, DailyMail.com reported. The quality of data coming back from Mars, from orbital satellites as well as from the landers, is such that we can use it to answer really difficult questions about conditions on, and even under the planets surface, using the same techniques we also use on Earth, Arnold added. SpaceX and Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk has often said he believes someday in the not-too-distant future his company will be capable of sending humans to Mars. Its something we can do in our lifetimes, he told an audience of 100,000 viewers at the International Astronautical Congress in Guadalajara, Mexico, in 2016. You could go. He has also said he has a target date of 2029. Sources include: NPR.org DailyMail.co.uk (Natural News) New research published in the HealthCare Ethics Committee Forum (HEC Forum): An Interpersonal Journal on Healthcare Institutions Ethical and Legal Issues highlights the systemic suppression and discrimination that Western medical professionals face whenever they dare to question the safety or effectiveness of any vaccine. In the wake of the Covid-19 scamdemic, the term anti-vaxxer has become a household term. More medical professionals than perhaps ever before in our nations pharmaceutical history are questioning drug injections, including well-known drug pushers like Paul Offit of the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Many medical professionals who were once well respected within the field are now being blacklisted for pointing out that vaccines are harming and killing people. This is a major no-no, the new study found, revealing how vaccine worship is basically a requirement in order to be successful in the field. The controversy over vaccines has recently intensified in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, with calls from politicians, health professionals, journalists and citizens to take harsh measures against so-called anti-vaxxers, while accusing them of spreading fake news and as such, of endangering public health, the studys abstract reads. However, the issue of suppression of vaccine dissenters has rarely been studied from the point of view of those who raise concerns about vaccine safety. Vaccines are a death cult Based on the responses gathered for the study, investigators found that doctors, nurses and researchers who in any way criticize vaccines face a wide variety of censorship and suppression tactics, including the forced retraction of their published work. Those deemed to be anti-vaxxers are also blocked from receiving future funding for research, with some even facing calls for dismissal from their practice/place of employment. There have also been cases where vaccine skeptics were summoned to special hearings, after which their medical licenses were suspended. Fear of punishment also keeps some vaccine skeptics in the medical field trapped in a constant state of self-censorship. They often silence themselves and tow the status quo for fear of losing their careers. Respondents also reported on what has been termed a backfire effect a counter-reaction that draws more attention to the opponents position, the study explains. Suppression of dissent impairs scientific discourse and research practice while creating the false impression of scientific consensus. The most common form of punishment faced by vaccine skeptics in the medical field include: Publication of defamatory statements against them Forced retraction of published scientific work Denial of research grants Calls for dismissal and summonses to hearing Suspension of medical licenses by Ministry of Health Self-censorship (refraining from expressing critical opinions about vaccines for fear of repercussions) Another thing that specifically family doctors, or general practitioners, face is pressure from the Ministry of Health to vaccinate patients even if patients express opposition to getting jabbed. Another study highlighted by Dr. Robert Malone, MD, on his Substack reveals how stifling of free speech in the medical field hinders progress in public health. The scamdemic highlighted this in a profound way by revealing the extent to which the government and Big Pharma are willing to go to control the conversation about vaccines. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, this bias surfaced through the unprecedented proliferation of conflicting vaccine studies, this second study, published in The Cureus Journal of Medical Science, reveals. Many researchers strongly recommend and report on the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine. Those researchers who embrace the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccines, in general, are often dismissive of other researchers who present views that differ from medical orthodoxy and oppose medical consensus. To learn more about the dangers and ineffectiveness of vaccines, visit Vaccines.news. Sources for this article include: RWMaloneMD.substack.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Christian churches tend the bust out the HE IS RISEN banner on Easter Sunday, and heres a version of the central declaration of faith from another religion, the Church of Scientism: (Article by Chris Bray republished from ChrisBray.Substack.com) We stand by science, so we stand by the vaccine. These hang from every lamppost on the sizeable campus of a major research hospital in Los Angeles, an identical recitation of faith that appears before the eyes of the medical pilgrim every thirty steps or so. You can chant it in a rhythm, if youre so inclined, as ye performest thine Stations of the Vaccine. The true penitent will park on Robertson, to walk past the maximum number of signs, but mark ye the parking restrictions, for the ways of Los Angeles parking enforcement are cruel, and many are they who suffer the penalties. If this isnt a declaration of a faith, then what is it? The call and response, the this-therefore-this: Priest: Because of science, we save lives every day. Congregation: We stand by science, so we stand by the vaccines. You can hear the chanting in your head, cant you? The repetition, the delivery of a mantra in a form that allows you to perceive it, and perceive it, and perceive it, and perceive it yet again before ye makest thine turn onto San Vicente. When you say it often and identically, it wears grooves; it patterns the dailiness of life with the avenues of belief. Its Benedictine Scientism. Or, you know, not. My bet is that most people never notice these signs, or never notice them twice, but the choice to make them and to display them is compellingly bizarre and creepy. I wish I could have witnessed the meeting of medical administrators that led to that choice, because Im fairly confident that it played like a Paddy Chayefsky movie IRL. Ive been reminded over and over this week how important Substack has become. This absolute must read post from el gato malo discusses the complete implosion of popular trust in the mRNA injections, from the sharp decline in booster uptake to the that parrot is dead numbers regarding mRNA uptake in children under the age of five. Flatly, people arent taking this shit anymore, and theyre for damn sure not having it injected into their children. Meanwhile, this absolute must read piece from Marty Makary and the magnificent Tracy Beth Heg describes the rising sense of horror inside the federal health agencies over the politicization of mRNA vaccine approval, and the resulting exodus from the CDC, NIH, and FDA. (And if I had the patience for it, Id post video here of the Moderna and Pfizer CEOs complaining about how many doses theyre throwing away, now. But yuck. Google around for these if you feel the need, but drink first.) While the population as a whole turns aggressively against a corrupt apparatus, and while the wheels fall off the corrupt apparatus, hospitals and doctors continue the procession as if the church remains unified. Excommunications continue; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center again, a research hospital quite recently took away a physicians hospital privileges because the filthy heretic has but two injections of the Holy Sacrament of the mRNA. Unbeliever! He argued that two injections plus a subsequent Covid infection gave him adequate immunity and obviated the need for further injections BURN THE WITCH. Ten months after the director of the CDC said flatly and publicly that the mRNA injections dont stop transmission and infection, a major center of scientific research and medical practice toddles along as if the vaccines work flawlessly to protect people from sickness. Heres new research suggesting that vaccinated people are taking longer to clear a Covid infection than the unvaccinated, but whatever. You could name a dozen data points, a hundred research claims, a thousand personal experiences: None of it will matter. If you stand by science, you stand by a process of continual evaluation, of argument and reassessment, and you change your practice to fit new evidence. The people who say they do this arent doing it, because theyve trapped themselves in a piece of symbolic performance that theyve gotten tangled up in like an animal wrapped in barbed wire. Theyve said they believe in the vaccine; theyve made the thing the symbol, rather than the process. Vaccine is science; we are believers; we march. At some point theyll be forced to rip themselves out of this self-constructed trap. Itll be ugly and painful, as apostasy tends to be. Read more at: ChrisBray.Substack.com (Natural News) Twitter has permanently banned author James Lindsay for calling a transgender attorney a child sexualization specialist on the social media platform. (Article by Brad Jones republished from TheEpochTimes.com) Lindsay said he made the comment after Alejandro Caraballo, a clinical instructor at Harvard Law Schools Cyberlaw Clinic who previously worked as staff attorney for the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund, accused him of being racist and sexist. Caraballo celebrated and took credit for Lindsays suspension, saying, Tell James, I want him to know it was me in a post on Twitter. Over the last two weeks, Lindsay said, trans activists have banded together, targeted him, and claimed responsibility for a mass reporting campaignwhich is against Twitter rules. They not only launched a massive reporting [campaign], but they bragged that they did it, he told The Epoch Times on Aug. 5, the day he was banned. Twitter has a terms of service agreement that you cant mass report or induce mass reporting. Its considered targeted harassment, and its against the terms of service to do it, but nobody ever enforces itever. He was previously twice locked out of his @conceptualjames Twitter account, once on July 21 for responding ok groomer to Ari Drennen, an LGBTQ program director at Media Matters, and again on July 26 for using the word groomer in old Twitter posts that trans activists publicized. Drennen, who took credit for getting Lindsay locked out of his account on July 21, wrote an article published online July 22 suggesting Twitter suspend users slandering LGBTQ people as groomers and calling Lindsay a right-wing CRT alarmist. To get back into his Twitter account in that case, Lindsay said he was forced to confess the ok groomer comment violated Twitter rules because its the only way to get your account back unless you want to get locked into appeal limbo. Lindsay has since appealed the permanent ban. When prompted to describe the problem to Twitter, he wrote: The problem is that you arbitrarily changed the rules and suspended my account after repeatedly forcing me to lie to admissions of guilt for violations that arent real. You should un-suspend my account and correct your biased and arbitrary policy enforcement. Ironically, Lindsay said that he felt like he was let out of prison after the ban. I dont know why I want to go back. Its so strange how immediate it is that I just feel relief that Im not on there anymore, Lindsay said. The only reason I want it back is a matter of practicality, because it drives something like 80-something percent of my traffic to my website. He accused Twitter of using tactics similar to those of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to coerce people into confessing to fake crimes. That is a tactic of Maoisma communist tactic to force people to confess to crimes to be able to get leniency. Thats literally how Mao ran his prisons in CCP-controlled China in the 50s, he said. The term groomer has several meanings, and although it can refer to pedophilia, it can also mean a recruiter who grooms someone into a cult, club, or organization, or a person who grooms another for a job or position, he said. Lindsay contends he used the term groomer to describe someone involved in what he views the cult indoctrination of others into the trans activism or and gender ideology movement and was not accusing anyone of pedophilia. I would not accuse anybody of that without substantive evidence. Its a horrific accusation, he said. He has admitted publicly that he openly criticizes those involved defending and engaging in cult grooming into a gender ideology rooted in queer Marxist theory. Its weird because the cult indoctrination is sex, gender, and sexuality, and so theyre indoctrinating people with concepts of sexuality which sexualizes children, but thats not the same thing specifically as pedophilia, which is also the sexualization of children. There is this weird double meaning, or two meanings to the word, he said. Lindsay has produced a series of podcasts called Groomer Schools for his website, New Discourses, which has been very popular, he said. So, Ive been calling these people groomers for months. I started doing it back in October, he said. [It wasnt] ambiguous in terms of what it means until 10 minutes ago. Twitter did not respond to an inquiry about Lindsays allegations that activists had launched a mass reporting campaign against him, but told The Epoch Times in an emailed statement on Aug. 5 that his account was permanently suspended for hateful conduct according to Twitter policies. While Lindsay opposes cancel culture on social media, especially for expressing an opinion on an issue, he said people who abuse their positions or power to impose an ideology on school children should be fired. As the author of several books, including Race Marxism and Social (In)Justice, that delve deep into todays culture wars, Lindsay is no stranger to controversy, but he has never been banned from Twitter for his opinions on critical race theory, for example. Its not the broader constellation of things Im calling out; it is specifically that they want to protect the transsexual ideological grooming of children, and it is huge and it is coordinated, he said. There is a vested interest in protecting this specific thing, and I dont know why that is. Tiffany Justice, co-founder of national parental rights organization Moms for Liberty, was recently locked out of the groups Twitter account for a week over a post condemning controversial proposed legislation that would make California a transgender sanctuary state, and for also challenging gender ideology. She wrote on Twitter July 25, Gender dysphoria is a mental health disorder that is being normalized by predators across the USA. California kids are at extreme risk from predatory adults. Now they want to liberate children all over the country. Does a double mastectomy on a preteen sound like progress? After Justice deleted the post, the Moms for Liberty Twitter account was unlocked. Media Matters has also accused Twitter account Libs of Tik Tok, Gays Against Groomers founder Jaimee Michell, and others of slandering people with the term groomer. Last week, Twitter also locked the Gays Against Groomers account. The group had posted: Damaged people damage people. The internet is a dangerous place for kids, especially when you have radical alphabet activists openly grooming them. Protect your children from these people at all costs. Read more at: TheEpochTimes.com Researchers discovered in their digging stone structures said to be made from basalt, plastered walls, water cisterns, and magnificent colorful ceramics and mosaic floors. The discovery will help to understand the area where the Caliph's palace of Khirbat al-Minya was said to be built on the Sea of Galilee. Moreover, the researchers performed hands-on digging and geomagnetic surface surveys. The geomagnetic scans assisted the excavation team in digging the exact spots. According to the study, the outcome of the excavation was the accurate result they hoped. Professor Hans-Peter Kuhnen said that the excavation team hit the jackpot, unveiling the recent insights into the Islamic Caliph's palace Khirbat al-Minya in Israel. Kuhnen is also the site director and archaeologist. Also Read: Research Shows 518 Million Years Old Worm Resembled Ancestry of Three Major Living Animals The study explained that the major discovery showed that the early eighth-century Caliph commissioned the area's buildings with a mosque and a 15-meter-high gateway. Discovery The researchers unlocked stone structures reportedly made of basalt with colorful mosaic floods, plastered walls, and water cisterns. Unveiled images showing the flora and fauna native that reportedly to be native to the Nile valley symbolize the power of the mighty river for the annual floods for Egypt's agricultural abundance. While the researchers said that one of the plants shows majestic long and curved stems that are said to be the depiction of the 5th to 6th centuries Nile scene mosaics The ceramic findings provided insights into that the area had become occupied by Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates recorded from the 7th to the 11th century. On the contrary, mosaics and related ceramics are said to date back to the 5th and 7th centuries. The researchers noted a thriving settlement near the lake before the Caliph's palace, in which Jews, Christians, and Muslims were the original inhabitants. Lead researcher Kuhnen explained the recent discovery unveiled that there were inhabitants before the Caliph Walid constructed his palace on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Sugar cane Furthermore, Kuhnen revealed that sugarcane cultivation in the area produced money. They found a furnace built on stone to process sugar cane and images of massive sugarcane cultivation in the Middle Ages. The researchers noted caused damage to the ecosystem, finding extensive soil erosion and so-called environmental disaster in the area, in which the lake was said not to be fully recovered by the 20th century. Ultimately, the researchers added that the research helps understand the contexts of the history of human settlement in the holy land. The study noted that the pandemic affected the research team for almost three years before they could visit the site again. Geomagnetic surface surveys The study mentioned the importance of geomagnetic surface surveys guiding the excavation team to locate the most accurate spot. The technology above is useful by using magnetic sensors to detect even tiny variations, including previous construction work, according to the research. It assisted archaeologists in digging targeted test pits. The project was supposedly archeological field work to train students. However, they found striking findings in the area. Related Article: Researchers Discover Longhorned Tick in Northern Missouri, Urging Farmers' Vigilance for Infestation For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. New research revealed that rising levels of zone pollution could interrupt the pollination process of plants and animals. The excess ground-level zero ozone is seen to damage the flowering plants' patterns, flower blooms, and plant foliage. According to the US Forest Service (USDA), it explained that pollination is an important process for plants and animals. It transfers pollen grains from the flower's male anther to the female stigma. The Forest Service added that flowers look a vectors as essential parts to move pollen. Vectors can refer to insects, butterflies, wind to water, birds, or animals going to the flowers. Ultimately, pollinators play a key role when a transfer occurs in the process. The USDA added that there are two plant types of pollination: Self-pollinating and cross-pollinating. Self-pollinating means plants are capable of fertilizing themselves. At the same time, cross-pollination requires plants to be a vector in the process. The research's lead author Evgenios Agathokleous explained that ozone is a silent threat to pollination and pollinators, and the ozone impacts are missed. Agathokleous added that there were concerns about the direct effects of agrochemicals on pollinators. The lead author is also an ecologist at Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology. The research is available to read in Cell Press Journal and ScienceDaily. Ozone Gas The research emphasized that ozone gas helps protect the Earth and humans from the sun's rays. United Nations Environment Programme showed that the ozone layer is 15 to 35 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The invisible shield protects humans and Earth from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage skin and health risks to humans and animals. On the other hand, the researcher highlighted that ozone pollution could impact pollination and pollinators. The study mentioned that rising tropospheric ozone levels because of the warming climate. Moreover, the lead researcher explained that ozone pollution affects the flowering duration and amount of pollen. Also, the impact on the color of flowers is associated with the disruption of visual signals to pollinators. Also Read: Research Shows 518 Million Years Old Worm Resembled Ancestry of Three Major Living Animals Agathokleous added that ozone pollution could threaten plant leaves. It damages the leaves, and injuries are noticeable from the discoloring leaves and diverse colors or shapes. Ozone pollution effect could severely impact plants and their qualities, decreasing the n nutrients essential to insects. What happens is that ozone pollution can degrade the plants' quality, the research noted. Protecting pollinations Ozone pollution, as the silent threat, can disrupt the chemical signatures from the difficulty of plants in photosynthesizing and struggling to grow. The significant impact on plant communication could disrupt pollinators' signals, failing to recognize host plants. Ultimately, the U.S Forest Service emphasized the importance of pollination and said humans could not live without it. The reasons are the environmental benefits of pollination: maintaining the propagation of seeds, genetic diversity, clean air, and preventing erosion through roots. The benefits of pollination in supporting biodiversity can provide livelihoods for humans. Related Article: Researchers Discover Longhorned Tick in Northern Missouri, Urging Farmers' Vigilance for Infestation For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. The latest forecast revealed that residents might feel near-record high to warm temperatures in the Pacific Northwest over the next few days. After Florida and South Carolina suffered from hurricanes, causing widespread flooding and damage to properties, forecasts suggested that some parts in the Pacific Northwest could feel temperature-like August rather than the warm feeling of October. In the recent AccuWeather update on October 3, reports said that near-record temperatures might occur in the next few days, considering that the temperature was highly unusual for October. In comparison, some areas in the Northwest will feel like July temperature than October. Furthermore, the report showed a warm stretch through Thursday with reduced air quality and a dry environment. Forecasts According to the weather website, AccuWeather Meteorologist Joe Curtis said that it would not feel like a fall in the Northwest even if the calendar is now in October, cautioning that temperatures in the said region could reach 10 to 20 degrees above normal. Despite storms unleashed rains to cool the temperature, AccuWeather explained that the unseasonable warmth in October could be because of the high-pressure strengthening area in the Northwest. Based on AccuWeather's weather update, the temperatures are said to be not more intense than what residents felt in the midsummer months. The weather website agency reported the following: Seattle may experience abnormally warm temperatures, with record warmth expected to continue into Tuesday. In Portland, AccuWeather noted a surge of 86 F on Saturday. Fresno could feel the temperature in the mid-90s, expected on Tuesday or Wednesday. California, which suffered from a heatwave, could also feel the above-average temperature. Sacramento could reach the low 90s in the mid to late week. On the other hand, the report explained that the next storm system could be on the West Coast toward midweek, which can bring a temperature cool down. However, it said that it would not unleash much rain. Also Read: Forecasts Say Tropical Storm Orlene to Unleash Flooding Rainfall in Western Mexico and Could Become Hurricane In the Northwest, an active storm, which might come in midweek, could help alleviate the heat and return to the typical levels, according to AccuWeather. High temperatures tips Red Cross emphasized the importance of awareness of hot temperature conditions. As nearly high temperatures could occur in the coming days, it can threaten health safety. The American Red Cross reminded that extreme heat events could cause power outages as residents exhaust more energy to alleviate the heat. Before the nearly high or record-high temperatures can happen, the American Red Cross suggested drinking enough water as it can prevent health-related illnesses, noting to keep away from sugary products such as caffeine or alcoholic drinks. Also, ensure pets are hydrated. Home cooling your house can reduce heat by installing insulation, shades for windows, air conditioners, or powered attic ventilators. These are helpful to regulate or keep the heat out. Inside your home, preferably wear lightweight or loose-fitting clothes to reduce the heat. Cut down outdoor activities during record-high temperature advisory. If family members seem to suffer from dehydration or heat-related health risks, immediately consult a doctor. Areas without air conditioning, especially in the farther north with less cooling equipment, should be ready for warmer to nearly high temperatures. Related Article: Ian Unleashed Heavy Rainfall, Flooding and Power Outages in South Carolina For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. Forecasts showed coastal storms could unleash flooding rainfall on Northeast beaches, especially in Southeastern Virginia and Long Island. Coastal flooding and rainfall advisories are in effect. After Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc in North Carolina and Florida, causing evacuations and massive flooding, reports revealed that the coastal storm could affect southeastern Virginia and Long Island areas. In the latest weather update on October 3, 2022, AccuWeather reported that the coastal storm could bring days of coastal flooding on the Northeast beaches, which meteorologists have been monitoring a non-tropical storm on the United States east coast. In the current advisory, AccuWeather noted the coastal impact of the coastal storm through Tuesday. Rough surf Beach erosion Coastal flooding Increasing northeast winds Residents are advised to stay updated with the weather update. The coastal storm is from the remnants of Hurricane Ian, which devastated parts of Florida. The affected Northeast beaches can feel above-normal tides and enhanced rainfall. AccuWeather reported that weather advisories and coastal flood warnings are in effect, including areas of the southwestern corner of Connecticut, the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and also in the following areas: It added that 40-60 mph wind gust is expected on the coastline of Virginia Tidewater, Chesapeake Bay, and New Jersey. South of Interstate 80 and east of I-81 may experience rainfall and stronger winds starting Monday to Tuesday. In upper Ohio Valley and the central part of Appalachians could expect rainfall. Fox News Weather reported advisories in areas: Potomac River in northeastern Virginia, Albemarle and Pamlico, coastal Connecticut, Jersey Shore, and southern and eastern Delmarva Peninsula. Hurricane Ian Impact The devastation of Hurricane Ian in Florida was catastrophic, leading to several deaths. A recent update from Reuters showed death toll from the Hurricane was recorded at 80 as of Sunday and is expected to increase. Experts said that Hurricane Ian was one of the worsts hurricanes that rampaged Florida. Also Read: Forecast Warns Nearly-Record High Temperatures in Pacific Northwest Search and operations in the state have been ongoing to stranded in massive flooding. On the other hand, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis tweeted the immediate restoration of power in affected communities from the widespread power outage. Moreover, Reuters reported that President Joe Biden is set to visit Florida on Wednesday. Coastal storm preparations Although the coastal storm is considered non-tropical, reports showed it could still unleash heavy rains, high tides, and dangerous seas, especially on residents near the coast. Individual preparations help prevent damage from the coastal storm. Here are some reminders, especially if you live beside the affected communities with coastal flooding and coastal rainfall advisories. Stay updated with the updated coastal storm advisories from your local news agencies, weather stations, and local officials' announcements. Refrain from traveling to areas with coastal flooding advisory. Anticipate the impact of the storm. Check your houses for any potential damages. Prepare an emergency bag containing basic food supplies, fully charged mobile phones with a power bank, and medicines. Immediately evacuate to the nearest shelter, as advised by the local officials or when water levels rapidly rise. Be careful with storm debris, downed trees, or possibly power lines. After the storm, check the home for potential damages. Related Article: Ian Unleashed Heavy Rainfall, Flooding, and Power Outages in South Carolina For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. Northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland have a long history of reindeer herding. It has changed the Fennoscandian alpine scenery and is also viewed as a way to reduce the impacts of climate change on flora. Nonetheless, new research found that the bulk of this grazing area is vulnerable to cumulative stresses presented by the northward extension of human activity. The majority of reindeer grazing land is under cumulative pressures Cumulative land-use constraints are progressively disrupting grazing land in northern Fennoscandia. Northern development includes intensive forestry, outdoor tourism, road and rail traffic, but also mining, and wind farms, as per ScienceDaily. The recently published study mapped and evaluated the total breadth of these cumulative stresses, as well as the existence of predators and climate change. Previous research has primarily concentrated on regional dimensions; however, the authors employed an integrated large-scale GIS study across three countries: Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Their findings indicated that around 60% of the region is susceptible to numerous pressures and that the remaining 85% is subject to at least one pressure. This significantly reduces both the size and quality of the summer grazing area. What is new is that researchers have now obtained a comprehensive picture of these stresses throughout the whole region. This was difficult since various land-uses function at different scales and may be quite dynamic, as can predators and the impacts of climate change on grazing, according to Marianne Stoessel. Even in the altitudes, grazing is an important mechanism for preserving plant diversification. "So we needed to explore the magnitude of these cumulative stresses while keeping summer pastures in mind, where grazing occurs," explained Professor Regina Lindborg, co-author of the paper and project coordinator at Stockholm University. This study predicted significant risk of vegetation and landscape change in the future due to the great extent of cumulative pressures over the region and climate change, resulting in a concentration of grazing in less disturbed regions and invasion of trees and shrubs in disturbed areas. Also Read: Cattle Grazing: An Excellent Method To Reduce Fire Danger During the Dormant Growing Season of Cheatgrass Grazing and biodiversity There is little doubt that previous, primarily uncontrolled grazing caused significant harm to rangelands, as per New Mexico State University. However, extrapolating these mostly historical implications to modern activities is dubious. On the contrary, extensive research has demonstrated that good livestock grazing may and, in certain situations, is required to preserve and improve biodiversity and other rangeland functions. Ranching is the most sustainable future land-use choice on rangelands for preserving the functionality of the large-scale biological processes that generated rangelands. These are also the very processes that create biodiversity on rangelands. When numerous rare species inhabit the same biological locations yet require fundamentally different structures or ecological states, focusing on highlighted species rather than ecological processes might lead to avoidable confrontations. Furthermore, attempting to help a particular species by keeping a location in its current biological state in perpetuity is a hopeless war against nature. Rather, management should try to preserve the biological processes that generate varied ecological states across pastures and landscapes, while also accepting variability in disturbance and other processes that transform current states into different ecological states. Related article: Vast Aspen Grove Pando Slowly Dies from Grazing Wildlife A Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) is being prepared by personnel of the Fumigation and Avian Control company to be released to patrol the runways and air space over Mexico City's Benito Juarez International Airport on January 29, 2018. Several species of hawks, eagles and dogs are used by the Wildlife Control Coordinator to scare away wild birds, rodents, and other species that may endanger the landings or take-offs of aircrafts at the Mexican capital's international airport. (Photo : Photo credit should read YURI CORTEZ/AFP via Getty Images) What creature has the quickest flight speed? And what genetic characteristics allow it to move so quickly? Fastest Animal on Earth The cheetah is well-known for being the swiftest mammal on soil, yet the animal world does not stop at the crust of the world. As stated by the Nature Conservancy, peregrine falcons are international species, managed to find on each landmass apart from Antarctica. Peregrinus is the Latin phrase for traveler, a likely to fit pseudonym provided that the seahawks can transition up to 15,550 miles airfare - one of the lengthiest population movements in North America. Conforming to 2018 research published in the Journal of Comparative Physiology A, a peregrine may achieve rates of up to 200 mph throughout a descent, making them not simply the world's fastest birds yet additionally the world's fastest creatures, per the Britannica. Based on the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, peregrine falcon soaring rates range from 25 to 34 mph (40 to 55 km/h) in touring mode to 69 mph when hunting prey. As shown by Guinness World Records, interesting new flights indicate that peregrines may achieve rates of up to 242 mph. This structure minimizes the degree of drag they encounter from the atmosphere, allowing peregrines to travel faster, according to Ed Drewitt, a biologist and peregrine falcon specialist located in the United Kingdom and article writer of "Urban Peregrines" (Pelagic Publishing, 2014), in a statement to Live Science. In accordance with the National Wildlife Federation, the peregrine falcon's fast velocity enables it pursue - usually smaller species, varying from hummingbirds to sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis). Brazilian free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) are the world's fastest recorded leaflets, reaching rates of up to 100 mph, as initially disclosed by Live Science. Also read: What Role Does Hair Dye Play in the Conservation of the Australian Sea Lion The Fastest Jet-Setter In reality, although peregrines are the quickest mammals to navigate into the airspace when diving, a bat is the quickest winged species ever recorded. Peregrines have powerful, teardrop-shaped carcasses that ensure smooth the creatures, allowing them to dive like a projectile, according to Drewitt. A female bird of prey named 'Frightful,' controlled by pilot and birdwatcher Ken Franklin of Friday Harbor, Washington, established the global title in a sequence of flights in 1999 following being discharged from an aircraft around 17,000 feet (5,182 meters) over the oceans. When they identify a victim, they fall at incredible rates, striking with a curled paw to shock or murder it with the collision, according to Hein van Grouw, head curator of the Natural History Museum's bird group. Furthermore, when linked to certain similar falcons, their plumage is extremely extremely dense and strong in composition, presumably to decrease drag and help it fly relatively easily across the sky. Conversely, as per Live Science, peregrine nostrils have a series of little knobs within them that are supposed to operate as baffles - a device that controls fluid movement. Therefore, what physical traits enable peregrine falcons to fly at such incredible velocities? Peregrines forage at tremendous distances, generally from the skies or from a lofty ledge. Peregrines consume bats and will sometimes grab fish as well as rodents from those neighboring hawks. Related article: Mountain Lion Attacks 7-Year-Old California Boy and Bites his Buttocks South Africa: National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill gazetted Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, has published the gazetted National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NCGBVF) Bill, 2022. The Minister intends to introduce the Bill in Parliament, in terms of section 73 of the Constitution. Nkoana-Mashabane said the gazetting of the Bill is a major step forward in driving a multi-sectoral, coherent strategic policy and programming framework to ensure a coordinated national response to the crisis of GBVF by the government of South Africa and the country as a whole. She said the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, once established, will be the custodian of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (GBVF-NSP) and will be responsible for driving its implementation. Currently, the implementation of the NSP on GBVF is being driven by the End GBVF Collective a volunteerism-based collective of government, civil society, development partners, business individuals, who have banded together under the pillars of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF to respond to a stubborn pandemic that continues to impact the lives of women and girls daily, Nkoana-Mashabane said. She said the process of developing this legislation is in line with the declaration of the Presidential Summit Against GBVF, held on 1 and 2 November 2018 and the GBVF-NSP. Nkoana-Mashabane, in her capacity as the chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, welcomed this step, saying that the National Strategic Plan envisages a National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide that is based on a multi-sectoral approach. Once established and operational, the council will work with key government departments, civil society organisations and the private sector. This will contribute to building ongoing national, provincial and local accountability for urgent, comprehensive and all-inclusive response to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Advocate Mikateko Joyce Maluleke, commended the gazetting of the Bill as critical step in realising the goals set out in the NSP on GBVF. Maluleke said as far back as 1998, the South African government promulgated the Domestic Violence Act, which covered a wide range of abuses, from physical and sexual, to economic, psychological, stalking, and damage to property, amongst others. More recently the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development [made] amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Bill (NRSO), Domestic Violence Bill, and the Criminal Matters Amendment Bill. The Department of Social Development also opened up the Victim Support Services Bill for public comment. Amongst its scope, this Bill also proposes to make it a legal requirement that all service providers deal with victims of abuse in a professional manner, ensuring the dignity of the victim is preserved at all times during the process. These Bills strengthen the legal environment that provides justice for survivors of GBVF, said Maluleke. Drafting of the Bill Government drafted the Bill in consultation with multiple stakeholders, in line with the Development of Public Policy and Subordinate Legislation guidelines. Between June and September 2020, the department held public consultation webinars to share the status quo with regards to establishing the NCGBVF, and governments thinking on the NCGBVFs Terms of Reference (TOR). During the webinars, the department also shared the legislative framework and governments representation on the NCGBVF. This was also an opportunity for civil society to share its thinking on the NCGBVFs TORs, the legislative framework and all other matters related to the NCGBVF. In September 2020, Nkoana-Mashabane met with business associations to deliberate on the process of establishing the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. The webinar solicited inputs on the draft Terms of Reference and the selection criteria for members to form part of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, as well as other measures to speed up the implementation of the National Strategic Plan. In October 2020, the department held a roundtable discussion to engage on realising the outcomes of the NSP on GBVF. The roundtable centred on the Terms of Reference for establishment of the NCGBVF. In October 2021, the department published the Bill in the government gazette to solicit public inputs and comments. In addition, in November and December 2021, provincial consultations were held to solicit inputs into the Bill. The Bill has been supported by the National Economic Development and Labour Council. The Bill was certified as constitutionally sound by the Office of the Chief State Law Adviser and having met all legal drafting requirements. Nkoana-Mashabane has thanked the stakeholders who worked on drafting the Bill, made contributions, and worked with the department in reaching this milestone. The National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide can be found at: https://www.dwypd.gov.za/index.php/resource-centre/gender-based-violence-femicide; and the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill (NCGBVF) can be found at: https://www.dwypd.gov.za/index.php/resource-centre/gender-based-violence-femicide. You can also learn more about how a Bill becomes a Law at: https://pmg.org.za/page/legislativeprocess. - SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2022-10-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. According to information published by the Taiwanese MoD on October 3, 2022, the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy has officially received the new Yushan-class landing platform dock Yushan during a ceremony. Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link Taiwanese Yushan class landing platform dock Yushan. (Picture source: ROCN) The Yushan-class landing platform dock is a class of landing platform dock built by CSBC Corporation, Taiwan for the Republic of China Navy (ROCN). Four ships are planned, with one ship launched in April 2021. The Yushan class is intended to maintain the inventory of the ROCN's land platform docks at two ships. The lead ship of the class will fill the void left by the retirement of the ROCS Chung Cheng (formerly USS Comstock), while a planned second ship will replace the ROCS Hsu Hai (formerly USS Pensacola), which served in the Republic of China Navy since 1999. Yushan-class ships have a length of 153 m (502 ft), a beam of 23 m (75 ft), and their standard displacement is 10,000 t (9,800 long tons). The class has a draught of 6.1 m (20 ft), a maximum speed of 21 knots (39 km/h), and a range of 7,000 mi (11,000 km). The ship is able to carry several AAV7 amphibious APCs along with 673 troops. She also has a single flight deck with two hangars able to accommodate Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk or the naval Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicopters. The class is unusually well armed for a landing platform dock with a 76 mm gun, two Phalanx CIWS, and two modular missile launchers of either 8 Hsiung Feng II surface-to-surface missiles or 16 Hai Chien surface-to-air missiles. They also have radar signature reducing features and electromagnetic pulse protection. The class is intended to fill both military and humanitarian roles, as a command ship for amphibious operations, a mothership for the ROCN's small minelayers, and a general logistics transport capable of supplying islands without harbor facilities. Reporter Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk). AP Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has responded publicly to the biggest protests in Iran in years, breaking weeks of silence to condemn the rioting and accuse the United States and Israel of planning the protests AP A judge has thrown out eight more convictions tied to a notorious former Chicago police sergeant who regularly framed people for drug crimes they didnt commit Champaign, IL (61820) Today Rain or snow showers this evening will give way to partly cloudy skies overnight. Low 29F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of precip 60%.. Tonight Rain or snow showers this evening will give way to partly cloudy skies overnight. Low 29F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of precip 60%. One of Editor & Publishers 10 That Do It Right 2021 For the very first time, a study led by Julian Chen and his group in Arizona State University's School of Molecular Sciences and the Biodesign Institute's Center for the Mechanism of Evolution, has discovered an unprecedented pathway producing telomerase RNA from a protein-coding messenger RNA (mRNA). The central dogma of molecular biology specifies the order in which genetic information is transferred from DNA to make proteins. Messenger RNA molecules carry the genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus of the cell to the cytoplasm where the proteins are made. Messenger RNA acts as the messenger to build proteins. Actually, there are many RNAs (ribonucleic acids) that are not used to make proteins. About 70 percent of the human genome is used to make noncoding RNAs that don't code for protein sequences but have other uses." Julian Chen, Arizona State University's School of Molecular Sciences and the Biodesign Institute's Center for the Mechanism of Evolution Telomerase RNA is one of the noncoding RNAs that assembles along with telomerase proteins to form the enzyme telomerase. Telomerase is crucial for cellular immortality in cancer and stem cells. In this study, Chen's group shows that a fungal telomerase RNA is processed from a protein-coding mRNA, instead of being synthesized independently. "Our finding from this paper is paradigm-shifting. Most RNA molecules are synthesized independently and here we uncovered a dual function mRNA that can be used to produce a protein or to make a noncoding telomerase RNA, which is really unique," said Chen. "We will need to do a lot more research to understand the underlying mechanism of such an unusual RNA biogenesis pathway." Basic research on the metabolism and regulation of mRNA has led to important medical applications. For example, several COVID-19 vaccines use messenger RNA as a means to produce viral spike proteins. In these vaccines, the mRNA molecules are eventually degraded and then absorbed by our bodies. This new approach has advantages over DNA vaccines which run the potential risk of being deleteriously and permanently incorporated into our DNA. The discovery of dual-function mRNA biogenesis in this work might lead to innovative ways of making future mRNA vaccines. In this study Chen's group discovered the unexpected mRNA-derived telomerase RNA in the model fungal organism Ustilago maydis or corn smut. Corn smut, also called Mexican truffle, is edible and adds a delicious umami effect to many dishes, for example tamales and tacos. The study of RNA and telomere biology in corn smut may provide opportunities for finding novel mechanisms for mRNA metabolism and telomerase biogenesis. Why study telomerase RNA? The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded in 2009 "for the discovery of how chromosomes are protected by telomeres and the enzyme telomerase." Telomerase was first isolated from a unicellular organism living in pond scum. As it later turned out, telomerase exists in almost all eukaryotic organisms, including humans, and plays a crucial role in aging and cancer. Scientists have been scrambling to discover ways to utilize telomerase to make human cells immortal. Typical human cells are mortal and cannot forever renew themselves. As demonstrated by Leonard Hayflick a half-century ago, human cells have a limited replicative life span, with older cells reaching this limit sooner than younger cells. This "Hayflick limit" of cellular life span is directly related to the number of unique DNA repeats found at the ends of the genetic material-bearing chromosomes. These DNA repeats are part of the protective capping structures, termed "telomeres," which safeguard the ends of chromosomes from unwanted and unwarranted DNA rearrangements that destabilize the genome. Each time the cell divides, the telomeric DNA shrinks and will eventually fail to secure the chromosome ends. This continuous reduction of telomere length functions as a "molecular clock" that counts down to the end of cell growth. Genetics & Genomics eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today The diminished ability for cells to grow is strongly associated with the aging process, with the reduced cell population directly contributing to weakness, illness and organ failure. Counteracting the telomere shrinking process is telomerase, the enzyme that uniquely holds the key to delaying or even reversing the cellular aging process. Telomerase offsets cellular aging by lengthening the telomeres, adding back lost DNA repeats to add time onto the molecular clock countdown, effectively extending the life span of the cell. Telomerase lengthens telomeres by repeatedly synthesizing very short DNA repeats of six nucleotides -; the building blocks of DNA -; with the sequence "GGTTAG" onto the chromosome ends from a template located within the RNA component of the enzyme itself. The gradual shrinking of telomeres negatively affects the replicative capacity of human stem cells, the cells that restore damaged tissues and/or replenish aging organs in our bodies. The activity of telomerase in adult stem cells merely slows down the countdown of the molecular clock and does not completely immortalize these cells. Therefore, adult stem cells become exhausted in aged individuals due to telomere length shortening which results in increased healing times and organ tissue degradation from inadequate cell populations. Tapping the full potential of telomerase Understanding the regulation and limitation of the telomerase enzyme holds the promise of reversing telomere shortening and cellular aging with the potential to extend human life span and improve wellness of elderly individuals. Human diseases that include dyskeratosis congenita, aplastic anemia and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis have been genetically linked to mutations that negatively affect telomerase activity and/or accelerate the loss of telomere length. This accelerated telomere shortening closely resembles premature aging with increased organ deterioration and a shortened patient life span caused by critically insufficient stem cell populations. Increasing telomerase activity is seemingly the most promising means of treating these genetic diseases. While increased telomerase activity could bring youth to aging cells and cure premature aging-like diseases, too much of a good thing can be damaging for the individual. Just as youthful stem cells use telomerase to offset telomere length loss, cancer cells employ telomerase to maintain their aberrant and destructive growth. Augmenting and regulating telomerase function will have to be performed with precision, walking a narrow line between cell rejuvenation and a heightened risk for cancer development. Distinct from human stem cells, somatic cells constitute the vast majority of the cells in the human body and lack telomerase activity. The telomerase deficiency of human somatic cells reduces the risk of cancer development, as telomerase fuels uncontrolled cancer cell growth. Therefore, drugs that increase telomerase activity indiscriminately in all cell types are not desired. Small molecule drugs can be screened or designed to increase telomerase activity exclusively within stem cells for disease treatment as well as antiaging therapies without increasing the risk of cancer. The study of telomerase RNA biogenesis in corn smut may unveil new mechanisms for telomerase regulation and offer new directions on how to modulate or engineer human telomerase for innovations in developing antiaging and anticancer therapeutics. This study, "Biogenesis of telomerase RNA from a protein-coding mRNA precursor," was just published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The ASU team includes first authors postdoc Dhenugen Logeswaran and former research assistant professor Yang Li, doctoral student Khadiza Akhter, former postdoc Joshua Podlevsky (currently at Sandia National Labs, Albuquerque, New Mexico) and two undergraduate students Tamara Olson and Katherine Fosberg. Chen also commented on the caliber of the ASU undergraduate students, Tamara Olson and Katherine Fosberg, who were working in his lab for over a year. "They spent a lot of time in the lab and were fully involved in our research." Labconco congratulates Laura Perin as she joins the ranks of the Business Journals Women Who Mean Business. The honor is bestowed upon women whove established themselves as highly successful, experienced business leaders in their field or who give back to their communities in significant ways. The Kansas City Business Journal has released its 2022 list of women at the top of the local business world, and Perin was named a leader in business for her role at Labconco, a global leader in laboratory equipment. Labconco keeps researchers safe and efficient in their noble pursuit of science. Image Credit: Labconco Im honored to be recognized by the Business Journal... and excited about the important role Labconco plays in our industry. We have an incredible team that strives to serve our customers, our industry partners and the scientific community every day. I feel its an honor for our whole organization. Laura Perin, Director, Labconco In addition to her role on the board of directors for Labconco, Laura has served on the board for KansasBio, MRIGlobal Board of Trustees, University of Kansas Advancement Board, Denison University Board of Advisors and most recently joined The Advisory Board for Commerce Bank in Kansas City. Perin led the company through the pandemic, supply chain struggles, and has navigated the organization through unprecedented growth. As Labconco approaches its centennial year, she looks forward to growing Labconco, both domestically and internationally, with a continued commitment to providing high quality laboratory products and excellent customer service to the scientific community. Jeff White knows what can happen when 911 dispatchers receive a call about someone who feels despondent or agitated. He experienced it repeatedly: The 911 operators dispatched police, who often took him to a hospital or jail. "They don't know how to handle people like me," said White, who struggles with depression and schizophrenia. "They just don't. They're just guessing." In most of those instances, he said, what he really needed was someone to help him calm down and find follow-up care. That's now an option, thanks to a crisis response team serving his area. Instead of calling 911, he can contact a state-run hotline and request a visit from mental health professionals. The teams are dispatched by a program that serves 18 mostly rural counties in central and northern Iowa. White, 55, has received assistance from the crisis team several times in recent years, even after heart problems forced him to move into a nursing home. The service costs him nothing. The team's goal is to stabilize people at home, instead of admitting them to a crowded psychiatric unit or jailing them for behaviors stemming from mental illness. For years, many cities have sent social workers, medics, trained outreach workers, or mental health professionals to calls that previously were handled by police officers. And the approach gained traction amid concerns about police brutality cases. Proponents say such programs save money and lives. But crisis response teams have been slower to catch on in rural areas even though mental illness is just as prevalent there. That's partly because those areas are bigger and have fewer mental health professionals than cities do, said Hannah Wesolowski, chief advocacy officer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. "It certainly has been a harder hill to climb," she said. Melissa Reuland, a University of Chicago Health Lab researcher who studies the intersection of law enforcement and mental health, said that solid statistics are not available but that small police departments and sheriffs' offices seem increasingly open to finding alternatives to a standard law enforcement response. Those can include training officers to handle crises better or seeking assistance from mental health professionals, she said. The shortage of mental health services will continue to be a hurdle in rural areas, she said: "If it was easy, people would have fixed it." Still, the crisis response approach is making inroads, program by program. White has lived most of his life in small Iowa cities surrounded by rural areas. He's glad to see mental health care efforts strengthened beyond urban areas. "We out here get forgotten and out here is where we need help the most," he said. Some crisis teams, like the one that helps White, can respond on their own, while others are paired with police officers or sheriffs' deputies. For example, a South Dakota program, Virtual Crisis Care, equips law enforcement officers with iPads. The officers can use the tablets to set up video chats between people in crisis and counselors from a telehealth company. That isn't ideal, Wesolowski said, but it's better than having police officers or sheriffs' deputies try to handle such situations on their own. The counselors help people in mental health crises calm down and then discuss what they need. If it's safe for them to remain at home, the counselor calls a mental health center, which later contacts the people to see whether they're interested in treatment. But sometimes the counselors determine people are a danger to themselves or others. If so, the counselors recommend that officers take them to an emergency room or jail for evaluation. In the past, sheriffs' deputies had to make that decision on their own. They tended to be cautious, temporarily removing people from their homes to ensure they were safe, said Zach Angerhofer, a deputy in South Dakota's Roberts County, which has about 10,000 residents. Detaining people can be traumatic for them and expensive for authorities. Deputies often must spend hours filling out paperwork and shuttling people between the ER, jail, and psychiatric hospitals. That can be particularly burdensome during hours when a rural county has few deputies on duty. The Virtual Crisis Care program helps avoid that situation. Nearly 80% of people who complete its video assessment wind up staying at home, according to a recent state study. Angerhofer said no one has declined to use the telehealth program when he has offered it. Unless he sees an immediate safety concern, he offers people privacy by leaving them alone in their home or letting them sit by themselves in his squad car while they speak to a counselor. "From what I've seen, they are a totally different person after the tablet has been deployed," he said, noting that participants appear relieved afterward. The South Dakota Department of Social Services funds the Virtual Crisis Care program, which received startup money and design help from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. (The Helmsley Charitable Trust also contributes to KHN.) In Iowa, the program that helps White always has six pairs of mental health workers on call, said Monica Van Horn, who helps run the state-funded program through the Eyerly Ball mental health nonprofit. They are dispatched via the statewide crisis line or the new national 988 mental health crisis line. In most cases, the Eyerly Ball crisis teams respond in their own cars, without police. The low-key approach can benefit clients, especially if they live in small towns where everyone seems to know each other, Van Horn said. "You don't necessarily want everyone knowing your business and if a police car shows up in front of your house, everybody and their dog is going to know about it within an hour," she said. Van Horn said the program averages between 90 and 100 calls per month. The callers' problems often include anxiety or depression, and they are sometimes suicidal. Other people call because children or family members need help. Alex Leffler is a mobile crisis responder in the Eyerly Ball program. She previously worked as a "behavior interventionist" in schools, went back to college, and is close to earning a master's degree in mental health counseling. She said that as a crisis responder, she has met people in homes, workplaces, and even at a grocery store. "We respond to just about any place," she said. "You just can make a better connection in person." Thomas Dee, a Stanford University economist and education professor, said such programs can garner support from across the political spectrum. "Whether someone is 'defund the police' or 'back the blue,' they can find something to like in these types of first-responder reforms," he said. Critics of police have called for more use of unarmed mental health experts to defuse tense situations before they turn deadly, while law enforcement leaders who support such programs say they can give officers more time to respond to serious crimes. And government officials say the programs can reduce costly hospitalizations and jail stays. Dee studied the Denver Support Team Assisted Response program, which lets 911 dispatchers send medics and behavioral health experts instead of police to certain calls. He found the program saved money, reduced low-level crime, and did not lead to more serious crimes. Dr. Margie Balfour is an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona and an administrator for Connections Health Solutions, an Arizona agency that provides crisis services. She said now is a good time for rural areas to start or improve such services. The federal government has been offering more money for the efforts, including through pandemic response funding, she said. It also recently launched the 988 crisis line, whose operators can help coordinate such services, she noted. Balfour said the current national focus on the criminal justice system has brought more attention to how it responds to people with mental health needs. "There's a lot of things to disagree on still with police reform," she said. "But one thing that everybody agrees on is that law enforcement doesn't need to be the default first responder for mental health." Arizona has crisis response teams available throughout the state, including in very rural regions, because settlement of a 1980s class-action lawsuit required better options for people with mental illnesses, Balfour said. Such programs can be done outside cities with creativity and flexibility, she said. Crisis response teams should be considered just as vital as ambulance services, Balfour said, noting that no one expects police to respond in other medical emergencies, such as when someone has a heart attack or stroke. "People with mental health concerns deserve a health response," she said. "It's worth it to try to figure out how to get that to the population." The new cell-free protein crystallization (CFPC) method developed by Tokyo Tech includes direct protein crystallization and is a major headway in the field of structural biology. This technique will enable the analysis of unstable proteins that could not be studied using conventional methods. Analyzing these will increase our knowledge of cellular processes and functions. While we are familiar with certain crystals like salt and sugar that we use in our everyday life, there is another set of crystals, hidden from the naked eye, that is crucial to our biology. Microscopic protein crystals are found in living cells and help sustain processes like immune system activation, protein storage, and protection. To better understand the relationship between protein crystals' structure and function, scientists developed the in-cell protein crystallization (ICPC) method, which can directly observe protein crystals in living cells, ensuring high-quality crystals without the need for purification processes or complex screening methods. However, despite its many advantages, very few structures were reported because the crystals formed in living cells didn't have the size and quality that was required for analysis. So, a team of researchers from Japan, led by Prof. Takafumi Ueno of Tokyo Tech aimed to develop a better method. And recently, they hit a breakthrough! In their article published in Scientific Reports, the team reported the development of a technique that would make protein crystallization and analysis more efficient and effective. This technique-;a cell-free protein crystallization (CFPC) method-;was a hybrid between in vitro protein crystallization and ICPC, and allowed rapid and direct formation of protein crystals without the need for complicated crystallization and purification methods. "ICPC is expected to become an important tool in crystal structure analysis but we need a method to obtain better resolution protein crystal structures. So, we focused on establishing high-quality protein crystallization using CFPC with small-scale and rapid reactions," says Prof. Ueno, who also heads the Ueno Laboratory at Tokyo Tech. Members of this lab study naturally-occuring protein assemblies, their structure, and functions, aiming to apply this knowledge to develop innovative biotechnology and energy solutions. Coming back to the team conducting the current study (some of whom are also members of the Ueno Laboratory), they used a wheat germ protein synthesis kit, which is a tool for the synthesis of polyhedrin monomer, a viral protein produced in insect cells by cypovirus infection. This protein was then crystallized using the new CFPC method, leading to the formation of nano-sized polyhedra crystals (PhCs). The team could efficiently complete this process within 6 hours, using only 20 microlitres of the reaction mixture. Scanning electron microscopy images indicated that the PhCs had excellent purity, which allowed the determination of their structure at a resolution as high as 1.95 A (or 1.95 angstrom). To further explore the capabilities of their new system, the team carried out the structural analysis of crystalline inclusion protein A (CipA). Its structure was determined at a high resolution of 2.11 A, something that had never been reported before this study. This work is a big leap forward in the field of structural biology as the method it proposes will enable the analysis of unstable and low-yield proteins that cannot be studied via conventional methods. This technology also aims to aid in the development of advanced techniques for small-scale and rapid protein crystallization and analysis. The high-quality protein crystals produced by our method will expand the horizons of structural determination and provide us with useful and unprecedented insights into the complex environment of living cells." Prof. Takafumi Ueno of Tokyo Tech A crystal-clear view of the crystalline proteins indeed! Optibrium, a leading developer of software and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for drug discovery, today announced three key appointments: Michelle Harrison as Head of Strategic Marketing, Chris Khoury as Associate Director of Business Development, and Imran Ghauri as Business Development Manager. The appointments bring extensive AI and life science expertise and will align global business development and marketing strategies to further develop and commercialise the Companys computer-aided drug discovery technologies. Driven by recent investment and continued commercial growth, Optibrium plans to double its headcount by the end of 2023, including recruitment for C-suite roles. Michelle joins Optibrium as Head of Strategic Marketing with 8 years marketing experience, delivering high-impact strategy and effective marketing campaigns for scale-ups in the drug discovery and digital health space to successfully target global pharma, biotech, academic, and investor audiences. Michelle was previously Senior Marketing Manager at Healx, where she gained significant expertise in the AI drug discovery space, as well as cultivating the messaging, brand and team. Chris takes up the role of Associate Director of Business Development from KATAOKA-SS America, a laser technology manufacturer specialising in cell processing for areas such as regenerative medicine and drug discovery research, with his prior experience focused on the development of early-stage life science companies. Chris established a strong scientific foundation as a research scientist in protein and analytical biochemistry at The Fountain Group, and in protocol development at PerkinElmer. He holds a Masters degree in Biochemistry from California State University, and a Bachelors degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Dalhousie University. Imran assumes the role of Business Development Manager coming from Sensyne Health, where he supported the global sales of the companys AI-enabled clinical platform providing life science and healthcare customers with real world data insights across multiple therapy areas. Imran has over 30 years account management and business development experience with a track-record of success in customer acquisition and retention across a number of market sectors. These include big pharma, biotech, NHS Primary and Secondary Care. He holds a Bachelors degree in Chemistry from Swansea University. More than 170 organisations worldwide, including five of the top ten global pharmaceutical companies, currently deploy Optibriums computational drug discovery technologies in their research programs. Cerella, Optibrium's proven AI platform, empowers project teams with valuable insights from complex drug discovery data to maximise the success of preclinical discovery projects. Im a real proponent of harnessing the latest tech advancements to improve the drug discovery process. I look forward to working alongside the team at such an exciting stage in Optibriums growth to extend the reach and impact of their cutting-edge AI capabilities and ultimately help get effective treatments to people more quickly. Michelle Harrison, Head of Strategic Marketing, Optibrium As part of our continuing expansion and commercial success, we are delighted to welcome Michelle, Chris and Imran to the Optibrium team. Their impressive backgrounds in scientific marketing strategy and business development will power the next phase of our development and further strengthen the position of our market-leading in silico technologies and AI platforms. Dr Matthew Segall, CEO, Optibrium Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, Optibrium also has offices in Boston and San Francisco, USA. Young children in sub-Saharan Africa often become severely anaemic as consequence of a malaria infection. Treating them requires blood transfusions and they must stay hospitalized for several days. They are at a relatively high risk of dying during treatment, but the risk is even higher during the months after their discharge from hospital typically caused by another malaria infection. An international team of researchers from Africa, Europe and the U.S. recently showed that giving the children prophylactic anti-malarials (PDMC) during these months lead to a 70% reduction of hospital readmission and deaths among these children. In the 20 African countries with the highest malaria burden, 36.000 readmissions could be prevented every year if all severely anaemic children took anti-malarials post-discharge. Led by the University of Bergen, this team wanted to find out if this preventive treatment is cost-effective for the health sectors of, Malawi, Kenya, and Uganda, where malaria is endemic. "A no-brainer" Using data from medical trials that they had recently conducted in these countries, the researchers developed health economic models for each country. They found that giving PDMC is very likely a cost-effective intervention in each setting, and a main reason was that treatment and readmission costs are much higher than the cost of simple and affordable treatment with antimalarials. The reduction of readmissions is so significant, it's really a no-brainer: with PDMC you can save money while improving the health of these children." Bjarne Robberstad, Professor, Faculty of Medicine, UiB He has been supervising the study His colleague Melf Kuhl points out that the real strength of the study, however, lies in the consideration of adherence rates in the economic models. Parents at times forget to give the pills to their recovering children, which reduces the effect notably. While often ignored in research, this loss in efficacy is a real-life problem and may, in fact, lead to an initially optimal treatment no longer being the cost-effective option. Therefore, the team tested how many pills parents were likely to forget if they were provided the antimalarials in two different ways and included these findings in each country's model. Even then PDMC remains a no brainer: the cost-effective option for both the health sector and the households is when parents receive all pills with instructions as the child is discharged from the hospital. Asking parents to return regularly to hospital for a pill top up incurs higher cost to households and yields a lower real-life effect of the prophylaxis. Still, in all countries, both PDMC delivery options remained superior to the standard of care. New recommendations from WHO Based on these studies, the World Health Organization recently began recommending PDMC as treatment for severely anaemic children in malaria-endemic areas. The cost-effectiveness-study informed this recommendation. More importantly, it continues informing national decision-makers in sub-Saharan Africa, who are now deliberating how to best implement PDMC. Parents' adherence to a preventive therapy remains a widely unresearched question, even though it offers essential information for good policy advice. This study offers a methodological path for future studies to include real-life adherence rates in economic evaluations. Thought Leaders Dr. Amy Sheng, Dr. Lurong Pan Technical Account Manager, CEO Sino Biological Inc., Ainnocence In this interview, NewsMedical talks to Dr. Amy Sheng, a technical account manager at Sino Biological, and Dr. Lurong Pan, founder and CEO of next-generation biotech startup Ainnocence, about how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used in combination with high throughput production and screening to enhance the development process for potential universal vaccines. Topics discussed include how AI can be used in combination with high throughput production and screening of proteins to expedite the development process for candidate universal vaccines an ideal method for preventing and controlling future pandemics but also one of the major research challenges in biotechnology today. Can you provide an overview of your background and your current role at Sino Biological and Ainnocence, respectively? Dr. Amy Sheng: I am a technical account manager at Sino Biological. My background is in cell and molecular biology, antibody development, and production. Currently, I am in charge of the CRO program in Sino Biological in the United States. Dr. Lurong Pan: I am the founder and CEO of Ainnocence, an AI drug discovery platform. I have a Ph.D. in computational biology and a background in computer science specializing in artificial intelligence. I have been in this industry doing drug design and leveraging different computational algorithms for about 14 years. I initially collaborated with Sino Biological, using them as one of the cell providers of our internal drug discovery program. Can you define universal vaccines and why they are important to work on? AS: Universal vaccines are vaccines that provide broad efficacy against various strains of a virus. From the case of SARS, we have experienced and understood how rapidly a virus can mutate and can escape immunity. Therefore, it is vital to develop the vaccine or therapeutics reagents that will continue to protect against any new versions of the virus that may emerge. A universal vaccine has more potential compared to traditional ones in protecting vulnerable populations from various strains and even future variants. Before SARS and COVID, influenza has been a target for the development of a universal vaccine. The development of influenza vaccines with broader productions has been a goal for decades, and thanks to recent developments in vaccine targets and more efficient delivery platforms, this goal is believed to become more achievable. What are some of the other advantages that universal vaccines have over traditional methods of vaccination with specific disease examples? AS: With influenza, traditional vaccines do not produce durable, productive immunity and a cross-reactive immune response that can neutralize diverse influenza viral strengths. Traditional vaccine efficacy varies significantly in various age groups and against different viral strains. The strain mismatch is one of the main causes of vaccine failure. Very commonly, I hear friends say that oh vaccine does not work. Even I was knocked down for 1 week by flu even though I got the flu shot. In fact, just last year, the major strain of flu H3N2 mutated in a way that the designed vaccine could not efficiently provide immunity to the vulnerable population. However, universal vaccines could potentially solve this issue and provide better production as quickly as possible. Besides the efficacy, universal vaccines would lower the cost of vaccine R&D, manufacturing, and stockpiling if we are faced with a rapidly mutating virus, which will greatly benefit the low-source country populations that are particularly vulnerable to pandemics. Can you break down some of the science behind how universal vaccines work and how they are able to provide immunity against a range of diseases? AS: Universal vaccine development mainly focuses on the unchanged part of the virus or conserved region. However, this region might be shadowed by the ever-mutating domain of the virus, which is called immunodominance. In other words, the generated universal vaccine might have lower immune responses. Now, researchers are trying to make chimeric protein vaccines to make the conservative region more immunodominant and the immune response broader and more durable. How the vaccine is packed can also greatly affect the strain and the quality of immune responses. For example, adenoviruses can be modified and used to deliver DNA sequences encoding the viral antigens we want to present. The benefit of this is that they can keep producing the antigen for weeks, which might help extend the response. LP: Vaccines have two types of purposes: preventive and therapeutic. Preventive means you give it ahead of time, and it is protective for a while. Those are normally the vaccines that generate B cell immunity that has a longer memory in our immune system and takes effect. From the current improvement in science, we are already observing certain antibodies or antibody cocktails that can target multiple viral infections. If we could find a universal antigen using those computational and experimental measures, the product would be a universal preventive vaccine that generates a cocktail of long-term protective B cell immunity. Another part of our immunity is T cell immunity which normally gives a more distinct and harsh response to clear non-selective invaders of our body. We could control T cell behavior in a therapeutic way that stimulates its function when we get infected and, at the same time, customize it for different types of patients. Some patients have compromised T cell immunity, and some have overexcited T cell immunity that causes an inflammatory effect. If we could have a modulator to stimulate our T cells to be able to protect us, clear out any invaders or pathogenic modules from outside, and at the same time not hurt us that would also be classed as a universal vaccine used after infection to stimulate your immune system. What are some of the challenges in finding candidates for universal vaccines, and how can AI technology help to address those challenges? LP: Traditionally, we generate antibodies using a single antigen species. For example, with COVID, initially, we designed the vaccine using an animal model to generate antibodies to a strain that was currently happening. When the virus is mutant, we have to inject models multiple times in a timeline. We cannot chase the speed of the mutant using the conventional animal model method to develop universal vaccines. Computational technology could be a great help in collaborative experiments where we have virtually computed all the strengths from the beginning of the pandemic to that current time point, resulting in over 1,000 different strengths. Within a few hours, you can generate antibodies that potentially target different strengths. In the opposite vein, we can also use the same algorithm to identify what is common among all those mutant strains to generate an antibody to prevent future strains. In using this model for antibody design, the antibody is also able to prevent a future strain. There are patterns in the evolutionary trait of the viral species that we can learn from and be able to predict the future mutation trend of those species. If we can completely digitalize the virus, we could build an algorithm to find its evolutionary pattern and find a common immunogenetic sequence to contribute to the vaccine design process. Computational technology could speed up design and even help discover new phenomena in biology in the future. How has the introduction of AI and working with companies like Ainnocence helped and changed your workflow when developing technologies like these? AS: Ainnocence is a great platform to design proteins and antibodies and provide a guideline of what the ideal candidates look like. With Ainnocence, we can better understand and predict how the products will interact with the protein partners. On the production side, if the vaccine is in protein form, the production of the predicted sequences can be challenging. The desired protein should have high stability, high yield, and purity for the later manufacturer and other aspects of the R&D. We have to do a lot of troubleshooting to standardize the production of that protein. Can you talk about how you started working with Ainnocence, and how you developed the AI platform and integrated it with your development workflows to work on these new vaccine candidates? AS: Ainnocence was one of our customers. We developed a lot of component antibody projects together. As we provide various platforms for recombinant production, especially the highest approved protein production and screening, we can produce up to 1,000 constructs in a turnaround time as short as four weeks. Together with Ainnocence, we are able to provide quick answers to some basic information such as yield stability and purity and computational designs. We have extensive experience with viral protein production and the worlds largest viral protein bank. These antigens can be used to analyze vaccine-induced antibody responses. Can you talk about the process of adapting your technology to what Sino needed in this project, and how does working with Sino compare to other projects that you have? LP: We started by collaborating on the COVID project, and we found out a lot of customers not only wanted to produce a protein drug but also wanted to improve the property of those protein drugs. In the past, you had to try different mutations to find a good quality one, and this would take a lot of time and cost a lot. Suppose we could involve AI and be able to shortlist all those unnecessary experiments. In that case, we can enrich all the high-probability positive species using our AI engine and thus only need to conduct a very limited number of experiments to save time. It would expedite the R&D process and, from the customer side, mean that less money is spent on failed experiments. The technology is a good solution for the industry, and if we combine it to have a design and a production capability simultaneously, we can have a quick turnaround for more customer modules to be made. It is a good business model for both companies. How long until universal vaccines are common in therapeutic use around the world, and how much is AI affecting that? LP: A lot of universities, commercial entities, and nonprofit organizations are working on a universal vaccine. From a scientific and technology readiness point of view, I think we are getting close. I cannot make an accurate prediction if it will be in five years or ten years, but I think we will be able to see good animal study results in the coming three years. A large human trial is another story because that would involve a long-term series of safety studies, a larger population, and collaboration globally in different regions. In the next five to ten years, I would hope to see a vaccine validated in human trials for a candidate able to cover most of the common pathogens. AS: What we have seen recently for SARS-COVID is a unique case of vaccine development. The normal process of universal vaccine development, or any vaccine development, would take a long time, especially in the human trial, to ensure that the vaccine has a good safety record before the government finally approves it. We hope to see that coming out faster, but the most important thing is safety and keeping that on track. There are all different kinds of viruses like influenza, SARS, etc. During vaccine development, do you see any similar evolution patterns between different kinds of viruses? LP: We see common patterns for viral evolution: they evolve quickly and with their hosts. It is something we can learn digitally and computationally to either analyze understanding or even predict its trend. Everything is encoded in an RNA or a DNA strain that can be shared in a digitalized way for all species. In that case, these patterns are computable. About Dr. Amy Sheng: Amy Sheng, Ph.D., is a technical account manager in Sino Biological. Amy joined Sino Biological in 2021 supporting CRO services and project management in Eastern US region. Prior to joining Sino Biological, she worked in Caprico Biotechnologies as production manager in charge of antibody development and production for flow cytometry. She has a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology from Georgia Institute of Technology, and is ASCP-certified molecular biologist and ASQ-certified CSSGB. About Dr. Lurong Pan Dr. Lurong Pan is the founder and CEO of Ainnocence, an AI-powered, next-generation biotech startup. She has extensive drug design and precision medicine research experience using structural biology, computational chemistry, and artificial intelligence technologies. She was previously a senior investigator at Global Health Drug Discovery Institute and a research scientist in structural biology and computational biology at University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Pan received her B.S. in Applied Chemistry from Nanjing University, M.S. in Computer Science from Georgia Tech, and Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is also an IBM-certified big data architect. Website: www.ainnocence.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ainnocence/ Twitter: Ainnocence (@Ainnocence_Inc) / Twitter About Sino Biological Inc. Sino Biological is an international reagent supplier and service provider. The company specializes in recombinant protein production and antibody development. All of Sino Biological's products are independently developed and produced, including recombinant proteins, antibodies and cDNA clones. Sino Biological is the researchers' one-stop technical services shop for the advanced technology platforms they need to make advancements. In addition, Sino Biological offers pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology firms pre-clinical production technology services for hundreds of monoclonal antibody drug candidates. Sino Biological's core business Sino Biological is committed to providing high-quality recombinant protein and antibody reagents and to being a one-stop technical services shop for life science researchers around the world. All of our products are independently developed and produced. In addition, we offer pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology firms pre-clinical production technology services for hundreds of monoclonal antibody drug candidates. Our product quality control indicators meet rigorous requirements for clinical use samples. It takes only a few weeks for us to produce 1 to 30 grams of purified monoclonal antibody from gene sequencing. David James is a freelance writer who lives in Fairbanks. Creating Alaska is an ongoing series documenting the lives of artists and creators in Fairbanks. Feedback and suggestions for future interviews can be emailed to nobugsinak@gmail.com. The Public Safety Report is compiled from criminal complaints filed in state and federal courts, as well as some police blotter information, trooper dispatches, fire department reports and interviews with public safety officials. Individuals named as arrested and/or charged with crimes in this report are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Bahrain has announced it will host a global interfaith forum next month, under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Pope Francis and His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al Azhar, Shaikh Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, the Chairman of the Muslim Council of Eldersm will take part in the forum. The Bahrain Dialogue Forum will be held on November 3-4 under the theme The East and The West for Human Coexistence. It is expected to attract over 200 global faith leaders, renowned media personalities and scholars. The forum is organised by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Bahrain, in cooperation with the Muslim Council of Elders and the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence. The two-day event will feature a series of poignant discussions that aim to further cement the values of peace and tolerance. Its sessions will include discussions on global coexistence and human fraternity, dialogue in promoting coexistence (Bahrain Declaration as a model), the role of faith leaders in addressing current challenges, and global interfaith dialogue for world peace (Document on Human Fraternity as a model). TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Arab Financial Services (AFS), the leading digital payment solutions provider and fintech enabler in the Middle East and Africa, has been recognised and honoured for its workforce nationalization efforts on the sidelines of the GCC ministerial meetings in Saudi Arabia. AFS was the only financial institution from Bahrain to receive this honour. Samer Soliman Arab Financial Services (AFS) CEO said: This is a tremendous honour for AFS and reflects the importance we place on recruiting and nurturing local talent. Minister of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD), in Saudi Arabia, Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, honoured 19 leading companies in the fields of labour and development across the GCC states, at the event. Receiving the award on behalf of AFS was Zainab Ali, Senior Human Resources Officer. With 70% Bahrainisation across its Bahrain operations, AFS is committed to its national workforce investment while offering exciting career opportunities both locally and regionally. Most recently, AFS successfully concluded its inaugural Summer Internship Programme: AFS iSuites. By DR. ABDELGADIR WARSAMA As per the Company Law in Bahrain, there are many types of companies to enable interested investors to choose the type that suits them. Some companies are open for the public, a joint shareholding. The idea of establishing a joint stock company starts by the founders. The first idea to establish a public joint stock company, as a matter of fact, starts in the mind of one or group of persons whom we could call or deem as pioneers or entrepreneurs in that particular project. This is because they were the first people to think about starting a new venture through a public join stock company. Legally speaking, this group of persons constitutes the foundation for the new venture and this is why they are called, as the founders of the company. The presence of the founders, for establishing a new public joint stock company is mandatory and we could say it is a must according to the Company Law. According to the law, any person to take a positive step towards establishing a public joint stock company shall sign the Initial Memorandum of Understanding and Articles of Association. The signature signals the interest and shows the commitment as a founder member in the company to be established. The Company Law, in certain countries, requires the availability of at least 10 founders for the initial licensing of the Joint Stock Company and its incorporation. I believe that this minimum number is required to ensure the commitment of reasonable number of certain persons who are eager and interested to put their heads together towards achieving their joint goal, however, in some instances the competent authority could be approached to reduce the number, which could be reduced based on the application submitted for this purpose. It is important to mention that, in case the government or any other quasi-government agency wants to establish a public joint stock company, the requirement of having many founding members is waived. The number of the founders, in some cases, is very big and it is neither possible nor practical for all of them to work together to incorporate the company and therefore they are allowed by law to form a committee from themselves to undertake and follow up the incorporation process. This committee, normally, shall be composed of three to five members and they should be given the required legal authority to take all steps to incorporate the company. An interesting legal question arises here regarding the legality of the actions taken by the founders. Legally speaking, the company (under the process of incorporation) has the legal entity only to the extent necessary for the incorporation. In other words, the company and the founders have limited legal authority and this authority is confined to the steps required for the incorporation process only. If any step taken by the founders is not required for this particular purpose, then this step shall be deemed ultra vires and accordingly it shall fall outside the legal responsibility of the company. It has been observed, that some founders have exceeded their powers and limits and they performed some actions, which are not required for the incorporation of the company. In such cases, the founders are personally responsible and they should be accountable for what they have done. As an example of the premature actions taken by some founders, we could mention, negotiating and signing contracts on behalf of (the supposed-to-be-company), incurring unnecessary expenses, investing money outside the country which puts the available money in great risk... etc. Legally speaking, the founders are not free nor allowed to do anything according to their wishes. They are guided at this stage by the law and the necessary directives issued, from time to time, by the competent authority. All actions that are legally required for the process of incorporation of the company are binding on the company after its incorporation, and by all means, the founders are not personally responsible. This is a call for founders to understand their role and perform their duties in a legally acceptable manner. The Liquidation Sale is set to begin immediately TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Revelle Home Fashions, a Canadian company well known for its excellent quality bedroom linens, announced today that they will closing the company and immediately commencing a liquidation sale. The company will be liquidating through a store front open to the public at their warehouse located at 74 Wildcat Road, Toronto (East of Keele Street and South of Steeles Avenue West), their online store (revellelinens.com), and through wholesale distribution. Revelle is a Canadian brand well known for its excellent quality and a large range of fabric styles. Their products are manufactured in Canada using the highest quality European fabrics, 100% Egyptian cottons, fine woven sateens, daring prints and high thread-count jacquard linens. The Liquidation Sale will include all newly manufactured and current collection products including duvets, duvet covers, sheet sets, pillows, quilts, blankets, and much more. Revelle's story begins back in 1978 and was co-founded by two textile wizards Barbara Grnak and Freddy Faust. The owners operated a retail storefront in Toronto called Featherdown Fine Linens that was located in the heart of Yorkville and a Toronto manufacturing facility, Down-Town Duvets. Revelle became a popular brand with high-end customers and has developed a reputation for fine craftsmanship, leading-edge luxury, future-forward designs, unique fabrics and exclusive styles over the past four decades. It was not an easy decision for Barbara and Freddy to close the business. Despite their best efforts to mitigate current economic conditions including inflated prices for raw materials and higher transportation costs; ultimately, they were unable to absorb the sharp increases in rent expense. The liquidation sale starts this week and will run until early November. At the conclusion of the liquidation sale a public auction will be held to sell off all the manufacturing equipment, store fixtures, and remaining raw materials. About Danbury Global Danbury Global is a hands-on provider of asset monetization solutions focused on the disposition of retail and wholesale inventories, as well as industrial machinery and equipment. Danbury's services include, but are not limited to, retail store closings, orderly liquidations of wholesale inventories, and onsite and online public auctions. SOURCE Danbury Global For further information: Contact Jonathan Ordon at 416-630-5241, [email protected], or visit https://danburyglobal.com/revelle-home-fashions/ PRESCOTT, ON, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Ensuring that Canadian Coast Guard personnel have the equipment they need to keep Canada's waterways navigable is a key priority for the Canadian Coast Guard. The Canadian Coast Guard recently purchased a light icebreaker that will supplement its operations in the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence, and Atlantic regions. Today, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Government House Leader and Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands, Mark Gerretsen, officially announced that the Canadian Coast Guard's newest light icebreaker has been named the CCGS Judy LaMarsh. Parliamentary Secretary Gerretsen, on behalf of the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Joyce Murray, was joined by Fernando Mojica, Senior Director of the Fleet, Central Region of the Canadian Coast Guard in the name unveiling ceremony at the Canadian Coast Guard Base in Prescott, Ontario. The Honourable Judy LaMarsh was one of the first women to serve as a federal Cabinet Minister, as Minister of National Health and Welfare and Minister of Amateur Sport (1963-1965). She was instrumental in the development of innovative federal programs, including Medicare and the Canada Pension Plan. While serving as Canada's Secretary of State (1965-1968), the Honourable Judy LaMarsh helped to establish the Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada. In recognition of her many years of service, the Honourable Judy LaMarsh was appointed to the Order of Canada in 1980. Following a competitive process, the Canadian Coast Guard announced the purchase of a light icebreaker from Atlantic Towing Limited in November 2021. This vessel now named the CCGS Judy LaMarsh is currently undergoing design and conversion work at the Canadian Coast Guard's Prescott Base. The vessel will be ready to serve Canadians as early as the 2022-2023 icebreaking season, allowing other vessels to undergo important maintenance and life extension work as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy. Upon joining the Canadian Coast Guard's fleet, the CCGS Judy LaMarsh will perform icebreaking duties as well as tend to the navigational buoys in the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence, and Atlantic regions. In addition, the vessel will be available for search and rescue and other emergency response operations when needed. Quotes "I am delighted that the Canadian Coast Guard's light icebreaker will pay tribute to the Honourable Judy LaMarsh. Ms. LaMarsh was a champion of gender equality, a lawyer, author, and a pioneer in paving the way for women in Canadian politics whom she continues to inspire, and I look forward to seeing the CCGS Judy LaMarsh provide important icebreaking services to Canadians as part of the Canadian Coast Guard's plans to renew the fleet." The Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard "I'm very pleased to see that the Canadian Coast Guard will be honouring the Honourable Judy LaMarsh's many accomplishments through its newest light icebreaker. This vessel will help the Canadian Coast Guard continue its excellent work, while ensuring other icebreakers can receive the maintenance updates they need to meet their high standards of performance." Mark Gerretsen, Parliamentary Secretary to the Government House Leader and Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands "The Canadian Coast Guard is honoured to celebrate the Honourable Judy LaMarsh's outstanding achievements with our newest icebreaker. The CCGS Judy LaMarsh will ensure our icebreaking services can continue to run smoothly, while other Canadian Coast Guard's vessels undergo planned maintenance." Mario Pelletier, Commissioner, Canadian Coast Guard Quick Facts The CCGS Judy LaMarsh is the fourth interim icebreaker purchased by the Canadian Coast Guard, following the prior purchase of three medium interim icebreakers; the CCGS Jean Goodwill , CCGS Vincent Massey , and CCGS Captain Molly Kool . These vessels were acquired to supplement the existing fleet during vessel life extension and repair periods. is the fourth interim icebreaker purchased by the Canadian Coast Guard, following the prior purchase of three medium interim icebreakers; the CCGS , CCGS , and CCGS These vessels were acquired to supplement the existing fleet during vessel life extension and repair periods. The Honourable Judy LaMarsh was one of the first women to serve as a federal Cabinet Minister and helped establish innovative federal programs such as Medicare and the Canada Pension Plan. She is recognized as a trailblazer for women's rights in Canada and is a recipient of the Order of Canada . and is a recipient of the Order of . The name Judy LaMarsh was chosen under the Canadian Coast Guard's Vessel Naming Policy, which states that medium and light icebreakers are to be named after former Canadian leaders who made significant contributions to Canada through their work in politics, the marine environment, charitable efforts, business ventures, or public service. was chosen under the Canadian Coast Guard's Vessel Naming Policy, which states that medium and light icebreakers are to be named after former Canadian leaders who made significant contributions to through their work in politics, the marine environment, charitable efforts, business ventures, or public service. The Government of Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy is a long-term, multi-billion-dollar program focused on renewing the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy fleets to ensure that Canada's marine agencies have the modern ships they need to fulfill their missions, while revitalizing Canada's marine industry, creating good middle-class jobs and maximizing economic benefits across the country. Associated Links: Stay Connected Follow the Canadian Coast Guard on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. SOURCE Canadian Coast Guard For further information: Kevin Lemkay, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, 613-992-3474, [email protected]; Media Relations, Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Central Region, 204-984-4715, [email protected] Capital One Celebrates Its Commitment to Giving Everyone an Equal Opportunity to Succeed with Credit TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - This past weekend, Capital One Canada took to the Markham Fair (September 29 October 2, 2022) to demonstrate what it feels like to experience the brand's mantra, "You've Got This. We've Got You." To celebrate the belief that all Canadians deserve to have someone in their corner, they hosted an interactive experience, "A Fair Game." To help level the playing field, "A Fair Game" was modeled on the classic claw-machine game, but in the Capital One Canada version, absolutely everyone comes out a winner - no exceptions! Capital One Canada "A Fair Game" claw machine at Markham fair MF (CNW Group/Capital One Canada) "This fun twist on a beloved arcade game gave everyone a fair chance," says Becca Mintz, Vice President at Capital One Canada. "Whether you're putting your hopes on winning at the community fair or working towards building better credit, Capital One Canada can help you get there." Participation at the local fair was a tangible way to celebrate Capital One Canada's recent launch of its new brand ethos, inspired by the Latin translation of the word "credit," which means "to believe". It's centered around the notion of "belief" and how belief in people can help them achieve their financial goals, whatever they may be. And credit is important to getting there - if you believe it, Capital One Canada does too. Believing in real Canadians. Canadians looking to build or rebuild their credit can look to Capital One Canada. They're the financial institution directly helping people access and succeed with credit, and they continue to drive impact on the communities they serve with an unwavering focus on human potential. They create real impacts for real Canadians*. Take Caleb, spouse and parent to three daughters, who built credit by using his Capital One credit card. He and his partner recently were able to purchase a new home for their family in the GTA, which is no small feat especially in today's real estate market. Or June, who filed for bankruptcy after a divorce and long-term medical leave. She needed help getting back on her feet financially. Capital One Canada approved her for a credit card and helped her keep track of her finances as she rebuilt her credit score. approved her for a credit card and helped her keep track of her finances as she rebuilt her credit score. Finally, there's Christina who was financially limited due to debt and a damaged credit score. When she was approved for a Capital One credit card, she had the opportunity to rebuild her credit score and regain financial control. "The 'A Fair Game' experience is an analogy for everyday life situations. It's easy to feel that the odds are stacked against you, but showing Canadians that we're committed to helping them succeed on their financial journey is vital to who we are as a company," continues Becca Mintz. "You've got this, and we've got you." About Capital One Belief and Markham Fair . Capital One Canada acted as a "Friend of the Fair" sponsor for the 2022 Markham Fair, with a 50"X50" footprint in the Exhibits area and which ran from Thursday, September 29 to Sunday, October 2. Roughly 2,800 fairgoers played the Capital One Canada 'Fair Game' activation, winning fun family prizes such as toys, games and other family goodies.To learn more about Capital One Canada and #BeliefInYou, visit www.capitalone.ca/belief About Capital One Canada. With offices in Toronto and Kitchener-Waterloo, Capital One Canada has been offering Canadian consumers a range of competitive Mastercard credit cards since 1996. We challenge ourselves to see the world through the eyes of our customers, so we can deliver the market-leading credit products and exceptional service they're looking for. Capital One Canada is a division of Capital One Bank, a subsidiary of Capital One Financial Corporation of McLean, Virginia (NYSE:COF). Visit capitalone.ca to learn more. *Capital One Canada has used aliases to protect the identity of their customers. The testimonials displayed are verbatim except for minor grammatical corrections. These customers may have been compensated for their testimonials or review. SOURCE Capital One Canada For further information: Media inquiries: FleishmanHillard HighRoad, Mai Nguyen, [email protected]; Capital One Canada, Chloe John TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - CareRx Corporation ("CareRx" or the "Company") (TSX: CRRX), Canada's leading provider of pharmacy services to seniors living and other congregate care communities, today announced it has signed a multi-year contract to provide pharmacy services to residents in multiple seniors living facilities in Atlantic Canada, initially serving up to 600 residents. CareRx is currently in the process of establishing pharmacy operations in Atlantic Canada and expects to commence servicing homes in the third quarter of 2023. "Establishing a presence in Atlantic Canada is another significant step in our growth journey and will further strengthen our position as the national leader in seniors pharmacy services," said David Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer of CareRx. "We believe that our comprehensive and differentiated service model, which has been so successful in other provinces, will allow us to deliver higher quality and enhanced support to seniors housing operators in Atlantic Canada, becoming a foundation to further expand our presence and market share in the region in the years ahead." Mr Murphy added, "Geographic expansion remains a key strategic priority for CareRx, and we are confident in our ability to further expand our presence to other new geographies as we continue to execute on our growth and leadership vision." About CareRx Corporation CareRx is Canada's leading provider of pharmacy services to seniors living communities. We serve over 97,000 residents in over 1,600 seniors and other congregate care communities (long-term care homes, retirement homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes). We are a national organization with a large network of pharmacy fulfillment centres strategically located across the country. This allows us to deliver medications in a timely and cost-effective manner and quickly respond to routine changes in medication management. We use best-in-class technology that automates the preparation and verification of multi-dose compliance packaging of medication, providing the highest levels of safety and adherence for individuals with complex medication regimes. We take an active role in working with our home operator partners to promote resident health, staff education, and medication system quality and efficiency. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding the Company's business strategy, plans and other expectations, beliefs, goals, objectives, information and statements about possible future events. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate" or similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such statements. Factors that could cause such differences include the Company's exposure to and reliance on government regulation and funding, the Company's liquidity and capital requirements, exposure to epidemic or pandemic outbreak, the highly competitive nature of the Company's industry, reliance on contracts with key customers and other risk factors described from time to time in the reports and disclosure documents filed by the Company with Canadian securities regulatory agencies and commissions. These and other factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, no assurance can be given as to any such future results, levels of activity or achievements and neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of these forward-looking statements. The factors underlying current expectations are dynamic and subject to change. SOURCE CareRx Corporation For further information: David Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer, CareRx Corporation, 416-927-8400; Neil Weber, Investor Relations, LodeRock Advisors, 647-222-0574, [email protected] Together with Sarah Pavan, the brand unveils Thanksgiving food and language preferences in Canada LONDON, ON, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Winner, winner turkey dinner! Leading up to the holidays, Club House asked food lovers to vote on long-disputed Thanksgiving food and language preferences. In partnership with Ontario native Sarah Pavan, Beach Volleyball Olympian and World Champion, Club House uncovered which versions of classic seasonal dishes, terms, and habits win Canadian's hearts and minds. Three quarters of Canadians will be celebrating Thanksgiving this season, and they'll likely be doing it over a mixed plate of smooth mashed potatoes and stuffing with sausage, according to the Club House-commissioned survey. The top results of The Great Canadian Thanksgiving Debate are as follows*: Stewed Whole Cranberry Sauce (55%) vs. Canned Butter Tarts with Raisins (59%) vs. without Raisins Turkey Sandwich without Cranberry (53%) vs. with Cranberry Smooth Mashed Potatoes (84%) vs. Lumpy White Turkey Meat (60%) vs. Dark Meat Thanksgiving Dishes Mixed on the Plate (68%) vs. Separate Thanksgiving Meal (70%) vs. Leftovers Close Races: Butter Tarts with Raisins won by just 18 percentage points over Butter Tarts without Raisins. over Butter Tarts without Raisins. Stewed Whole Cranberry Sauce won by just 10 percentage points over Cranberry Jelly. over Cranberry Jelly. Turkey Sandwiches without Cranberry won by just 6 percentage points over Sandwiches with Cranberry. Clear Winners: Nearly three quarters of Canadians (74 per cent) use the term "Stuffing" over "Dressing." over "Dressing." Canadians greatly prefer Smooth Mashed Potatoes (84 per cent) over Lumpy. over Lumpy. Brown sugar with yams/sweet potatoes are preferred (79 per cent) over marshmallows. Provincial Results: Alberta and the Atlantic provinces love cranberry jelly! They were the provinces in which most people who like cranberry sauce said they preferred jellied to whole stewed. They were the provinces in which most people who like cranberry sauce said they preferred jellied to whole stewed. Only in British Columbia (55 per cent) do Canadians prefer Turkey Sandwiches with Cranberry. (55 per cent) do Canadians prefer Turkey Sandwiches with Cranberry. White Meat Turkey in preferred everywhere except Alberta where most prefer dark (52%). Country-Wide Results: Across all Canadian provinces, stuffing/dressing with sausage is preferred over nuts. over nuts. Canada is also unanimous on the winning combo of Butter Tarts with Raisins. Canadians prefer to mix Thanksgiving dishes on the plate versus enjoying them separately. versus enjoying them separately. Most Canadians (58 per cent) said Turkey is the "Quintessential Canadian Thanksgiving Meal." As part of this campaign, Club House contributed 4,000 meals** to Food Banks Canada in honour of the first 2,000 Canadians who voted in the Great Club House Thanksgiving Debate. This contribution, which expands a partnership with Food Banks Canada that began in 2015, addresses food insecurity in Canada by supporting 4,750 food banks and agencies from coast to coast to coast. For comprehensive results, visit ClubHouse.ca/ThanksgivingDebates . There, visitors can find signature recipes for contested dishes and more information about the Great Canadian Thanksgiving Debate, also available on the Club House Flavour Maker App, free on iOS and Android . Fans can join the fun on social media by following @ClubHouseSpices on Facebook and @ClubHouseCanada on Instagram . Media Note: High resolution images are available for download at this link. *Survey conducted with Canadians who celebrate Thanksgiving by Maru Public Opinion. The findings, methodology, and detailed tables are found here: Maru Public Opinion Canada. **Club House's contribution of two meals on behalf of the first 2,000 votes in the Great Club House Debate is based on the Food Banks Canada meal metric $1=2 meals. Maru Methodology Statement This Maru Public Opinion survey conducted on behalf of North Strategic was undertaken by the sample and data collection experts at Maru/Blue. 1,518 randomly selected Canadian adults who are Maru Voice Canada online panelists were surveyed from September 15th to September 16th 2022. The results of this study have been weighted by education, age, gender and region (and in Quebec, language) to match the population, according to Census data. This is to ensure the sample is representative of the entire adult population of Canada. For comparison purposes, a probability sample of this size that is comprised of full-time employed respondents used in this study has an estimated margin of error (which measures sampling variability) of +/- 3.0%, 19 times out of 20. Discrepancies in or between totals when compared to the data tables are due to rounding. About Club House Club House traces its roots back to 1883, where it first operated in London, Ontario, and today is Canada's leading flavour brand. For over 135 years, Club House has been making Canadian meals taste great through spices, herbs, seasoning blends, extracts, food colours, sauce mixes and other flavourful products available in retail outlets and foodservice businesses. Visit www.HelloFlavour.ca for more information and recipes. Club House is a McCormick & Company (MKC) brand. With over $6 billion in annual sales across 170 countries and territories, McCormick is a global leader in flavour. Founded in 1889 and headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, USA, McCormick is guided by our principles and committed to our Purpose To Stand Together for the Future of Flavour. McCormick envisions A World United by Flavour where healthy, sustainable, and delicious go hand in hand. To learn more, visit mccormickcorporation.com or follow McCormick on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. About Food Banks Canada Food Banks Canada provides national leadership to relieve hunger today and prevent hunger tomorrow in collaboration with the food bank network from coast-to-coast-to-coast. For 40 years, food banks have been dedicated to helping Canadians living with food insecurity. Over 4,750 food banks and community agencies come together to serve our most vulnerable neighbours who last year made 1.3 million visits to these organizations in one month alone, according to our HungerCount report. Over the past 10 years, as a system we've sourced and shared over 1.4 billion pounds of food and Food Banks Canada shared nearly $168 million in funding to help maximize collective impact and strengthen local capacity while advocating for reducing the need for food banks. Our vision is clear: create a Canada where no one goes hungry. Visit www.foodbankscanada.ca to learn more. SOURCE Club House For further information: Media Contacts: Dea Masotti Payne, [email protected], M: 204-583-1695; Sarah Windham, [email protected], M: 443-844-9067 Funding of $11.1 million for two UBC projects that will improve pathogen response and boost the impact of B.C. biotechnology on the global stage VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Pacific Economic Development Canada British Columbians continue to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, whether at home, at work, or in their community. Throughout the pandemic, science has provided the greatest defense, particularly through mRNA vaccines. These vaccines trigger the body's immune response to help protect against infection and severe illness. Government of Canada announces funding for advancements in mRNA vaccine technology at the University of British Columbia (CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada) Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister for International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $11.1 million in funding through PacifiCan for the University of British Columbia (UBC) to undertake two new projects to enhance the delivery and efficacy of mRNA vaccines. The first of these two complementary projects is receiving $3.5 million in PacifiCan support. It aims to optimize how mRNA vaccines are administered on a cellular level, improving uptake into the body. This will reduce potential side-effects of mRNA vaccines, improve their efficacy and allow for a smaller vaccine dosage. Research conducted through this project will help to streamline the production of existing mRNA vaccines and inform the development of future medicines across the globe. The second project, with $7.6 million in PacifiCan support, aims to identify and address new COVID-19 variants before they can spread. Through studying existing variants at the molecular level, researchers will use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to predict and develop mRNA vaccine treatments for potential future pathogens. This project will enable a nimble, home-grown response to emerging COVID-19 variants, helping to protect Canadians, and further solidify B.C. as a leader in the biotechnology sector. Investing in the health and safety of all Canadians is a key priority for the Government of Canada. In British Columbia, PacifiCan is committed to advancing the research and commercialization of life-saving biotechnology, supporting the regional economy, and building pandemic resilience across the globe. Quotes "PacifiCan is committed to supporting British Columbia's life sciences sector and these projects at the University of British Columbia reflect that commitment. Establishing a home-grown pipeline for mRNA vaccine research will not only save lives, but create jobs for British Columbians and position Canada as a global leader in biotechnology innovation." - The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada "With cutting-edge research led by some of the brightest minds globally, UBC continues to excel in biotechnology and life sciences research and innovation. With the generous support of the Government of Canada through PacifiCan announced today, our researchers will be able to help development treatments for new COVID-19 variants and improve the efficacy of mRNA vaccines and other therapeutics for a wide range of diseases." - Santa J. Ono, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of British Columbia "UBC has long been a major driver of the B.C. biotech sector, but those connections and their outputs really gained international attention during the pandemic. AbCellera, Acuitas, and Precision Nanosystems, among many others, are now major players in the treatment and prevention of diseases. This funding builds off many years of collaboration between UBC and local biotech companies and will enable us to continue developing and refining vaccines, drugs, and biologics." - Dr. Leonard Foster, Professor, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia Quick facts PacifiCan is investing $11,180,000 through its Regional Innovation Ecosystem program. This program aims to grow and nurture priority sectors across British Columbia , building an inclusive ecosystem that allows those sectors to innovate and compete globally. through its Regional Innovation Ecosystem program. This program aims to grow and nurture priority sectors across , building an inclusive ecosystem that allows those sectors to innovate and compete globally. Projects funded through the Regional Innovation Ecosystem program must support at least one priority sector, such as life sciences, clean technology, or agriculture. Additionally, these projects must support the hiring and training of under-represented groups, including Indigenous peoples, women, and youth. PacifiCan is the Government of Canada's regional development agency dedicated to British Columbia . PacifiCan promotes growth and diversification in British Columbia's economy by enhancing innovation, improving business competitiveness, and promoting inclusive growth. Associated links Stay connected Follow PacifiCan on Twitter and LinkedIn Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388 Backgrounder: Government of Canada announces funding for advancements in mRNA vaccine technology at the University of British Columbia Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced an investment of over $11.1 million through the Regional Innovation Ecosystem program for two projects at the University of British Columbia (UBC). These projects will focus on advancing the delivery and efficacy of mRNA vaccine technology. The two project teams will work in tandem, meeting regularly and coordinating research to maximize the value and effectiveness of both projects. Improve the delivery technology behind mRNA vaccines and other nanomedicines $3,500,000 The University of British Columbia will acquire key equipment and enhance lab resources to improve vaccine delivery technology. In partnership with leading B.C. biotechnology companies, UBC aims to accelerate the development of vaccine delivery techniques for commercial application on a global scale. Through analyzing how mRNA vaccines interact with cells and create defenses against pathogens, researchers will work to optimize the administration of those vaccines. Key objectives in this research project include minimizing any potential side effects, reducing the necessary vaccine dosage, and optimizing the potency of mRNA vaccines, among others. This work will advance the development of future mRNA vaccines and other medicines. Expected economic benefits of this project include the creation of 70 new jobs, the training of 80 new highly qualified biotechnology professionals, and revenue growth of at least $90 million for the B.C. biotechnology sector. Grow B.C. biotech by advancing in-vitro and in-situ antiviral therapy for SARS-CoV2 variants $7,680,000 This project will see UBC acquire key equipment and enhance lab operations to advance antiviral therapy for COVID-19 variants. This will involve identifying, testing and developing responses to existing COVID-19 variants and establishing a vaccine development framework in B.C. Working closely with B.C. biotechnology companies, UBC will study the COVID-19 Delta variant at a molecular level and use AI predictive models to create mRNA vaccine treatments for potential future variants. Through this process, UBC and its partners will develop a pipeline for rapid anti-viral drug development, enabling a local response to new and emerging COVID-19 variants for worldwide commercial application. Overall, this will allow B.C. to provide international leadership in vaccine research and raise the visibility of B.C. biotech within the global community. Expected economic benefits of this project include creating at least 170 jobs at UBC and industry partners, training 75 highly qualified personnel and growing revenue by at least $70 million for the B.C. biotechnology sector. SOURCE Pacific Economic Development Canada For further information: Contacts: Haley Hodgson, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Economic Development, [email protected]; Amanda Costa, Senior Communications Advisor, Pacific Economic Development Canada, [email protected] OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - In Canada, diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice. The Government of Canada is supporting Black Canadian communities across the country through measures built on advancing equity and diversity, in order to combat anti-Black racism and systemic racism in all their forms. With Canada officially recognizing the United Nations International Decade for people of African Descent in 2018, the Government continues to invest in Black-led initiatives that honour the contributions of Black communities. Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, launched a call for proposals that will see the Government of Canada invest up to $200 million for the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund. This Fund is dedicated to supporting Black-led charities and social purpose organizations. This call for proposals was designed and realized following virtual roundtables and online engagement with nearly 150 Black stakeholders across Canada. The Endowment Fund will create a sustainable source of funding to help combat anti-Black racism and improve social and economic outcomes in Black communities. Black-led and Black-serving not-for-profit organizations and charities are invited to submit a proposal to be the intermediary who administers the Endowment Fund. Organizations that meet the eligibility criteria will then be assessed on organizational capacity, objectives, activities, results and budget. A full list of assessment criteria is available online. Priority consideration will be given to proposals from organizations that: have a governance model that clearly reflects regional, linguistic and other types of diversity in Black communities; have a governance model that clearly demonstrates how they will engage with and hold themselves accountable toward the Black communities they will serve; provide a funding strategy that adopts a Black-centric and intersectional lens that centres on the needs and diversity of all Black communities, including with regard to gender, disability or age; and provide a funding strategy that ensures that funding is available to Black-led organizations and Black communities all across the country, including in official language minority communities. Interested organizations are encouraged to submit their proposals by email or by mail by Friday, November 25, 2022, at noon EST. The successful organization will be announced by spring 2023. For detailed information on how to apply, please consult the applicant guide. Quote "Diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice. Our government recognizes the systemic barriers that Black communities continue to face, and we are committed to ensuring that the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund provides direct supports to Black-led charities and non-profit organizations across the country. We will continue to build on our progress toward a more inclusive and more equitable Canada where no one is left behind." Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, Ahmed Hussen Quick Facts In May 2021 , Minister Hussen engaged with close to 150 stakeholders from Black communities across Canada to hear their thoughts on the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund and gather feedback on its design. A call for concepts was launched in January 2022 seeking innovative ideas from Black communities to help ensure the Endowment Fund would meet their expectations and address the unique challenges they face. , Minister Hussen engaged with close to 150 stakeholders from Black communities across to hear their thoughts on the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund and gather feedback on its design. A call for concepts was launched in seeking innovative ideas from Black communities to help ensure the Endowment Fund would meet their expectations and address the unique challenges they face. In addition to the $200-million investment in the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, Budget 2021 provided $100 million under the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative ( SBCCI ). SBCCI In recognition of the United Nations' International Decade for People of African Descent, the Government of Canada created the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative. Since 2019, over $175 million has been dedicated to the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative to celebrate, share knowledge and build capacity in Canada's vibrant Black Canadian communities. The SBCCI funding will support more than 1,300 projects to improve Black-led organizations' workplaces and community spaces. Working in collaboration with four Black-led national funder organizationsGroupe 3737, Tropicana Community Services, Black Business Initiative and Africa Centremore than $25 million has been provided for 705 projects for Black-led grassroots organizations serving Black communities in Canada . . As part of the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative, the Government is also supporting the establishment of the National Institute for People of African Descent to advance initiatives that address issues affecting Black Canadians from a Black-led perspective. Under the SBCCI, the Government of Canada will create an advisory group of Black leaders from across Canada to better inform the government on the design of the program, its funding processes, as well as its ongoing engagement with organizations that play a vital role in serving Canada's Black Canadian communities. will create an advisory group of Black leaders from across to better inform the government on the design of the program, its funding processes, as well as its ongoing engagement with organizations that play a vital role in serving Black Canadian communities. Recognizing that Canada's fight against racism is far from over, Budget 2022 provides $85 million over four years, starting in 202223, to support the launch of a new Anti-Racism Strategy and National Action Plan on Combatting Hate. Associated Links Apply for funding to implement the Black-Led Philanthropic Endowment Fund Call for Concepts: Black-Led Philanthropic Endowment Fund About the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative Building a Foundation for Change: Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy Follow us on Twitter SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada For further information: For media enquiries, please contact: Arevig Afarian, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, [email protected]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected] TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Today, Hydro One and Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) opened applications for the Hydro One Indigenous Entrepreneurship Grant in support of Indigenous-owned businesses across Ontario that are energizing life in their communities. Last year, the Hydro One Indigenous Entrepreneurship Grant supported 28 Indigenous-owned businesses as they worked hard to recover from the impacts of the pandemic. MTS Native Services, a design, printing, and finishing company and recipient of the grant, utilized the funding to upgrade its technology and improve its services for customers. Brandi Bomberry, Production Manager at MTS (CNW Group/Hydro One Inc.) Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Logo (CNW Group/Hydro One Inc.) "As a 2021 grant recipient, we were able to purchase a new automatic trimmer, significantly speeding up the printing process and allowing us to service more customers than ever before," said Monica Staats, Owner and Manager, MTS Native Services. "With support from Hydro One and the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, MTS Native Services was able to expand and reach new heights, and for that, we are very grateful." "CCAB takes pride in our partnerships that support Indigenous businesses, and we are once again pleased to partner with Hydro One and their grant program in support of Ontario-based Indigenous businesses," said Tabatha Bull, President & CEO, Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. "As Hydro One continues their journey toward reconciliation, they are demonstrating leadership in Indigenous relations and a commitment to prosperity in Indigenous communities." "At Hydro One, we are committed to Reconciliation and working together with Indigenous communities and businesses as true partners to foster Indigenous prosperity," said Penny Favel, Vice President, Indigenous Relations, Hydro One. "Hydro One is committed to doing things differently, and we are proud to partner with the CCAB to invest in the success of Indigenous-owned businesses now and in the future." Based on the eligibility criteria, Hydro One and CCAB select eight businesses to receive a $7,500 grant and 20 businesses to receive a $2,500 grant. All recipients also receive a CCAB membership. Indigenous-owned businesses are invited to review the eligibility criteria and apply for the Hydro One Indigenous Entrepreneurship Grant at www.HydroOne.com/CCABgrants. Applications are open until October 31, 2022. As a silver-certified member in CCAB's Progressive Aboriginal RelationsTM (PAR) program, Hydro One is committed to empowering Indigenous-owned businesses to foster an equitable and sustainable economy. This partnership is a part of Hydro One's commitment to direct 20 per cent of its corporate donations and sponsorships to Indigenous organizations that benefit Indigenous communities. Hydro One is also committed to increasing its Indigenous procurement spend to 5 per cent of the company's purchases of materials and services by 2026. About the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business CCAB is committed to the full participation of Indigenous peoples in Canada's economy. As a national, non-partisan association, its mission is to promote, strengthen and enhance a prosperous Indigenous economy through the fostering of business relationships, opportunities, and awareness. CCAB offers knowledge, resources, and programs to its members to cultivate economic opportunities for Indigenous peoples and businesses across Canada. For more information visit www.ccab.com. Hydro One Limited (TSX: (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. SOURCE Hydro One Inc. For further information: Hydro One Media Relations 24 hours a day at 1-877-506-7584 (toll-free in Ontario only) or 416-345-6868 TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ -- Invesco Canada Ltd. ("Invesco") today announced changes to the Invesco Fixed Income (IFI) Investment Grade portfolio management team in Canada and the following funds: Invesco Canadian Core Plus Bond Fund Invesco Canadian Short-Term Bond Fund Invesco ESG Canadian Core Plus Bond ETF Fund Invesco Global Bond Fund Invesco Canadian Premier Balanced Fund Invesco Canadian Premier Balanced Class Invesco Diversified Yield Class Invesco Global Balanced Fund Invesco Global Balanced Class Invesco Global Diversified Income Fund Invesco Global Select Balanced Fund Invesco Income Growth Fund Invesco Select Balanced Fund Invesco ESG Canadian Core Plus Bond ETF Invesco ESG Global Bond Fund ETF The Invesco Investment Grade Team will continue to be led by Michael Hyman, Head of Global Credit Strategies. Mr. Hyman is supported by Matt Brill, Head of North American Investment Grade and Todd Schomberg, Senior Portfolio Manager. Collectively, Mr. Hyman, Mr. Brill and Mr. Schomberg have over 70 years in the industry and almost 2 decades of managing portfolios together. Avi Hooper, Portfolio Manager, will be removed from the portfolios listed above, effective today, October 3, 2022. There will be no change to the investment objective, philosophy and process for these Funds. Since the expansion of IFI into the Canadian marketplace, the firm's investment grade strategies have been managed leveraging the full set of resources, expertise and capabilities of 175 investment professionals managing over US$392B in assets for clients around the globe as of June 30, 2022. The IFI team emphasizes a disciplined, repeatable process combining both top-down and bottom-up research that aims to uncover favorable risk/reward opportunities. About Invesco Ltd. Invesco Ltd. is a global independent investment management firm dedicated to delivering an investment experience that helps people get more out of life. Our distinctive investment teams deliver a comprehensive range of active, passive and alternative investment capabilities. With offices in more than 20 countries, Invesco managed $1.4 trillion USD in assets on behalf of clients worldwide as of June 30, 2022. For more information, visit www.invesco.com. Commissions, management fees and expenses may all be associated with investments in mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Trailing commissions may be associated with investments in mutual funds. Mutual funds and ETFs are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. There are risks involved with investing in ETFs and mutual funds. Please read the prospectus before investing. Copies are available from Invesco Canada Ltd. at www.invesco.ca. Invesco is a registered business name of Invesco Canada Ltd. Invesco and all associated trademarks are trademarks of Invesco Holding Company Limited, used under licence. Invesco Canada Ltd., 2022 Media Relations Contact: Matthew Chisum 212-652-4368 SOURCE Invesco Ltd. Toys that send kids' imaginations into overdrive! TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - This holiday season, Toys"R"Us Canada is helping parents and gift-givers create special moments with their highly anticipated Top Toy List for 2022. Featuring a broad assortment of gift ideas for every age and interest and highlighting twelve hero products, Toys"R"Us is making holiday gift-shopping easy. From collectibles to active-play gear to play sets featuring kids' favourite characters, this year's Top Toy List encourages grownups to wrap up an extra-special gift that sparks hours of imaginative play and years of memories. TOYS"R"US CANADA REVEALS TOP TOY LIST FOR HOLIDAY 2022 (CNW Group/Toys "R" Us (Canada) Ltd.) "We want to give parents, grandparents, relatives anyone buying for kids they love the tools to spark young imaginations, to send them in new directions," says Allyson Banks, Marketing Director at Toys"R"Us Canada. "We've hand-picked really special toys, games and gear that will deliver huge thrills for kids and make big heroes of the grownups who give them!" This year's Top Toy List includes items exclusive to Toys"R"Us, like the LiteHawk Highway Patrol Slot Car Set, the LEGO City Freight Train, Rainbocorns Unicorn Rescue Surprise and Bluey's Ultimate Caravan Adventures Play Set. In addition to the 12 hero toys, there are tons of terrific gift ideas online and in the Toy Book to suit every budget. The Top Toys are rolling out in-store and online at toysrus.ca throughout October and November. It's a brilliant tool to help grownups get that holiday shopping done early! Presenting: the 2022 Top Toy list from Toys"R"Us Canada! Toys"R"Us Top Toy Picks! Action Figures Arts & Crafts Blasters Books Building Sets and Blocks Dolls & Playsets Educational Toys Games and Puzzles Interactive Pets & Toys Plush and Stuffed Animals Pretend Play & Dress up Toddler & Preschool Toys Trading cards & Collectibles Vehicles, Trains & Playsets Stay up to date with Toys"R"Us Canada by following Toys"R"Us Canada on Facebook , Instagram , and TikTok . ABOUT TOYS"R"US (CANADA) LTD. ("TOYS"R"US CANADA") Toys"R"Us Canada has been Canada's dedicated specialty retailer of toys and baby products since 1984, spreading happiness throughout its 80+ stores across Canada and e-commerce sites: Toysrus.ca and Babiesrus.ca. The company nurtures the needs of Canadian families at every stage, from baby essentials to learning, and play, with a wide range of national brands, exclusive products, innovative programs and unique partnerships. Committed to creating an experience-driven destination for the whole family, Toys"R"Us Canada offers a fun and memorable in-store experience for children and their parents. The company also focuses on giving back to its communities through charity efforts that support children in need and their families. Toys"R"Us Canada is a subsidiary of Putman Investments. Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us are registered trademarks owned by Toys"R"Us (Canada) Ltd. All rights reserved. SOURCE Toys "R" Us (Canada) Ltd. For further information: FOR MORE INFORMATION, INTERVIEWS OR MEDIA REQUESTS, PLEASE CONTACT: Paige Exell, Jr. Account Manager, [email protected], 807-626-3041; Aimee Cook, Account Manager, [email protected], 647-231-5106 Residents of Otukpo town in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, on Monday, staged a protest over the dilapidated Federal Government... Residents of Otukpo town in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, on Monday, staged a protest over the dilapidated Federal Government road linking Makurdi and Enugu State. The protesters lamented the abandonment of the ever-busy road, which it alleged has been causing havoc in the area. It was reported that the dilapidated road had increased the suffering of Otukpo residents who had reportedly appealed to the federal government to come to their aid to ease movement vehicular movement. The condition of the road became more worrisome a few days ago following a heavy downpour that displaced many residents in Benue and other states. Some of the protesters who stormed the deplorable road for a pool party to draw the attention of well-meaning Nigerians, were sighted displaying placards with inscriptions such as Democracy Has Failed Us Here. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has busted a mansion in the Lekki area of Lagos State where Tramadol was stored. NDLEA Spok... The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has busted a mansion in the Lekki area of Lagos State where Tramadol was stored. NDLEA Spokesman, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Monday, said the pills recovered from the mansion were no less than 13,451,466 and worth N8.8bn in street value. He said the mansion belonged to a billionaire drug baron, Ugochukwu Nsofor Chukwukadibia, who was now in custody. The statemt read in part, The arrest of Ugochukwu, who is the Chairman of Autonation Motors Ltd, is coming barely two months after NDLEA uncovered at least 258.7kg of crystal methamphetamine in a clandestine laboratory in the residence of another drug kingpin in the estate, Chris Emeka Nzewi, who was arrested alongside a chemist, Sunday Ukah, who cooked the illicit drug for him, on September 30. Following credible intelligence, NDLEA operatives on Friday 30th September stormed the Plot A45 Road 2 home of the 52-year-old billionaire drug kingpin. A search of the expansive mansion led to the discovery of 443 cartons of Tramadol Hydrochloride 225mg, which contains 13, 451, 466 pills of the drug while some cartons were already burnt in a fire incident in the house same day. Before his arrest, Ugochukwu who hails from Ihiala local government area of Anambra state has been on the Agencys watch list as one of those behind the tramadol drug cartel in Nigeria. Preliminary investigation shows that he has about six mansions within the VGC, one of which he uses to warehouse the tramadol consignment, while he lives in the one at Plot Z-130 Road 67 and another as his office. Five exotic vehicles have also been located in two of his mansions, out of which two SUVs including a bullet jeep have been successfully removed to the Agencys facility. Reacting to the latest drug haul, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.) commended the officers and men involved in the operation for their diligence while also appreciating Nigerians for supporting the Agency in its arduous task of ridding the country of the menace of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has kicked against the national honour expected to be conferred on Adamu Adamu, minis... The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has kicked against the national honour expected to be conferred on Adamu Adamu, minister of education. President Muhammadu Buhari listed 437 Nigerians to be honoured on October 11 and Adamu was included. The minister is to be honoured with Commander of the Order of Niger (CON). Reacting in a statement on Monday, Giwa Temitope, NANS spokesperson, said the move is a clear pointer to the fact that Nigerian students have been taken for a ride. NANS blamed Adamu for the eight-month-long strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), adding that the Nigerian education sector has totally collapsed under him. It constitutes an insult to the collective intelligence of Nigerian students both home and in the diaspora that the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu under whose nose University students have been home for close to 8 months is to be awarded the National Honours of Commander of the Order of Niger (CON), the statement reads. This singular act of the Buharis administration is a clear pointer to the fact that Nigerian students have been taken for a ride. And, we see this as the final straw that breaks the back of the camel of Buharis much-touted integrity. Over the years, successive administrations in the country have shown to the Nigerian people that the National Honours is more of recognition of patronage than recognition of excellence. But, Maj. Gen. Buhari (rtd.) has taken a step further to show to the mass of Nigerian students that we are not on the priority list of the administration. It is so unfortunate that a country which offered so much in hope and possibilities at independence has today become a land of suffering, insecurity and near hopelessness signposted by youth unemployment and an underfunded educational sector. In a functioning country, both the Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige who shamefully walked out of a meeting with the national leadership of ASUU at the instance of the House of Representatives and his Education counterpart would have been fired before now. But, the reverse is the case as Adamu Adamu under whose watch the educational sector of the country has totally collapsed is to be recognised with a National Honours for a job well done. The association said it will mobilise students back to the streets in protest against the recklessness of the federal government. Popular filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan, has received applauses over his new movie, Anikulapo, which explored the ancient Oyo kingdom. T... Popular filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan, has received applauses over his new movie, Anikulapo, which explored the ancient Oyo kingdom. The movie, which was acted in Yoruba language, features A-list actors and actresses such as Kunle Remi, Yinka Quadri, Bimbo Ademoye, Sola Sobowale, and a host of many others. The story of death, resurrection and the greedy desires of men, premiered in the cinemas and on Netflix on September 30, 2022. Since its release, fans have taken to Twitter to celebrate the filmmaker and appreciate the movie. Lagos lawmaker, Akin Alabi, who asked for the continuity of the movie, tweeted, So many angles for Kunle Afolayan to explore if he wants to turn Anikulapo into a series. Why did Saro leave Gbongan? Maybe he did bad things there. Did Arolake go back to Oyo? Is Saro still alive? So many angles. Series please. Another tweep, @OlisaOsega, said, Omo! Kunle Afolayan is a legend bruh. This Anikulapo movie is too dope abeg. From the casting to the acting to the costumes to the location used, everything is 10/10. The attention to details is probably the best Ive seen in any Nollywood movie. Kunle is too good, no cap. Radio presenter, Osi Suave, said, One thing the Anikulapo movie showed is the unending hospitality of the Yoruba people. Ever willing to take any and everyone in with open arms and even give them a means of fending for themselves. Afolayan, who acknowledged the praises for the movie, also revealed that the Nigeria Oscar Selection Committee rejected Anikulapo. He tweeted, I am so pleased and delighted that the whole world have decided to tagged ANIKULAPO film a masterpiece even though the Nigeria Oscar selection committee think its not worth submitting for the Oscars. I will keep doing my own thing. Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, including candidates for the 2023 elections have called on the presidential... Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, including candidates for the 2023 elections have called on the presidential candidate of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and governors of the South-West to stop hobnobbing with Governor Nyesom Wike. The stakeholders comprising national assembly and state house of assembly candidates and other party faithful said it was discouraging for members of the party in Rivers State to see leaders of the party that they look up to romancing with a known political opponent like Governor Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party. They frown that these leaders go as far as visiting the state to inaugurate projects on the invitation of the governor, this, they stressed help to campaign for the ruling party in the state by heaping praises on him (Wike) ahead of a general election. They spoke at a one-day consultative meeting of the South-South executive committee presided over by the APC National Vice Chairman of the zone, Chief Victor Giadom, in Port Harcourt on Sunday evening. The state APC legal adviser, Dike Iheanyi Zubi, while speaking at the meeting said it was unfair for Governors of the South-West to hold nocturnal meetings with Wike and return back to their states without bothering to an interface or speak with their party members in the state. Zubi further said the action of Tinubu who has held meetings with Wike abroad and the action of the governors concerned were tantamount to anti-party activities and called on the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) to call them (Tinubu and the South-West governors) to order. He said, It is very discouraging for the APC here in Rivers State to see a situation where the presidential candidate of our party, Ahmed Bola Tinubu and his handlers, including South-West Governors of the APC coming to the state to undermine our party here in Rivers State. And they begin to hobnob and hold nocturnal meetings with Wike, who is seen as a contender with the APC here in the state. So, we as APC members here frown at such action because it doesnt encourage us here. We consider it as anti-party on the side of Ahmed Tinubu and his cohorts. Instead of coming to strengthen the Rivers State chapter of the party, they are busy hobnobbing with Governor Wike, who is a PDP member. For the APC in Rivers State, we see it as an affront and anti-party. So, I call on the national chairman of the party and President Buhari to call him (Tinubu) and his cohorts to order. They should stop dividing the Rivers APC. APC is one family. Similarly, a former caretaker committee chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area and state house of assembly candidate for the 2023 election, Prof. Lawrence Chukwu, said the action of the party leaders was embarrassing to members of the state. As a party, the kind of embarrassment we are receiving from our leaders who come to Rivers State is unbearable. Imagine that Governor Wike is abusing the president (Buhari) and our leader (Rotimi Amaechi) every day. Yet, our leaders and some governors of the party will come to Rivers State to commission projects in Rivers State. They will not even bother to visit members of the party before leaving. It is very bad. The APC here in Rivers State has what it takes to win elections here. All we need is support, we need financial support from the national. This kind of embarrassment should stop. The party must do what is right in order to win elections in the state, Prof. Chukwu said. On his part, the state APC chairman, Emeke Beke, who said he was speaking as an individual, expressed dismay that none of the party members from the zone whose names were submitted to the national level of the party made the list of the APC presidential campaign council. Beke told Chief Giadom to relate it to the national level when he returns that the state APC chairmen in the zone took a position and have written to the President and the national officers in that regard, even as he called for a refund of 25 per cent from the proceeds of the sale of forms in the state. According to Beke, We have written to the President, to the national chairman, to the candidate (Tinubu), to the chairman of the governors forum and the Director General of the campaigns. You people asked us to nominate five, five names for campaign council. None of the five names we sent appeared on the list because they dont like Rotimi Amaechi. From the zone, no one (names) appeared. And the chairmen have taken a position on that. We will down our tool. As you go back tell the national chairman that Rivers State bought forms of over one billion naira. And what we are asking, remit to the state 25 per cent of that money. If that money is not remitted to Rivers State, forget about coming to Rivers State to campaign for a presidential candidate. We will vote for our national assembly state house of assembly candidates and focus on the governorship candidate of this state and we will win. The truth is that what has happened to Rivers State is because they dont like Rotimi Amaechi. I speak as Emeka Beke, not as Rivers APC Chairman. I have heard and seen Wikes comments on Television and social media respectively. Wike dines with leaders of our great party. If the national does not listen to the APC Rivers State, we will take our destiny in our hands. He said Governor Wike does not have the political spread to win an election, but was luring its leaders with financial inducement, even as he expressed worry that respected leaders of the party are constantly visiting the state and dining with Wike just a few months to the general poll. He said, We have been out of government for eight years. Now we want to win elections. I can tell you that Wike does not have the political base to win an election in Rivers State. What Wike is doing is giving the bride to leaders of our own party to shortchange the APC family in Rivers State. My candidates and members in Rivers State have suffered. Candidates are selling their land, selling their property to make sure they win an election and keep the APC in power. Then leaders that we look up to will come here and campaign. At the end of the day, they will dine with Governor Wike at night. Please tell them not to dine with Governor Wike again. Let them support this party in the state. We dont have a super minister because they dont like one man. We are party men, but tell them if they dont support us we will not support them. Responding, the APC national vice chairman, South-South and former acting national chairman of the party, Chief Giadom thanked the party faithful in the state for their frank comments and contributions. This is my own constituency and I am from Rivers State. I know exactly that everything that you have said here is true. Everybody in Nigeria knows that what you are complaining about is true. From the speaker (Femi Gbajabiamila), Governor Fayemi, and Governor Akeredolu, all came here (Rivers) to commission projects, and by doing it, praised Governor Wike. By doing that you are marketing our opponents against the APC. So we will put it to them, we will make them know. I can also tell you that we are passing through very tough times, Giadom said. Also speaking to newsmen after the meeting, he said, The reason why we are here, is to collect what we feel are the challenges in the party, with the aim of providing solutions for them or be ready to face the consequences. We have come, we have listened to them, we have heard them clearly, and we are going to put them together and report to the national party in Abuja to ensure that we find solutions to all the things that we know will help us win election in Rivers State. I know the pains of my people, which is also our collective pain. We were not on the ballot in 2019, which of course we know that I was supposed to be a direct beneficiary of that ticket. But the manipulation of the system denied us from being on that ballot. So, people have the right to be apprehensive, they have the right to be worried. But I can assure them that, by the grace of God, we will be victorious this time around and APC would win in Rivers State and recapture back our possession of becoming in charge of Rivers State leadership and we will form a government and be in government house. Watertown, NY (13601) Today A mix of clouds and sun this morning followed by increasing clouds with showers developing this afternoon. High 49F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low near 35F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Watertown, NY (13601) Today Rain early. Decreasing clouds with mostly clear skies by morning. Low 36F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%.. Tonight Rain early. Decreasing clouds with mostly clear skies by morning. Low 36F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Ed Note: This story is part of Gambit's "Climate of Change" series on climate change and labor in partnership with the Solutions Journalism Network. For decades, communities in the Rust Belt a region stretching from Ohio around the Great Lakes to western New York and south into West Virginia resisted efforts to transition their economies away from polluting industries like coal mining and steel manufacturing. For a century, these industries had been the backbone not only of the regions economy, but of the nations, pumping out coal and steel that helped fuel multiple wars, economic booms and technological advancements. But by the 1980s, as coalfields began to run dry and cheaper, foreign sources of steel became more available, and the regions economy began to suffer. At the same time, environmentalists were ringing alarm bells about the dangers of climate change and the need to abandon these very same industries. Clinton-era plans to provide job training and other programs rarely took hold, even as those industries continued to shed jobs and local economies tanked. Politicians scoffed at the idea of climate change and cast environmentalists as outsiders seeking to destroy the American dream. The resistance to an economic transition was fed, in part, by cultural factors: West Virginia coal miners, for instance, see their work as part of their identity. Similarly, polluting industries poured significant resources into opposing those plans and questioning the science of climate change. But it also was a result of civic leaders simply coming to the problem too late. In recent American history, we have seen, in places like the Rust Belt, how much more difficult it is to come back from economic transitions instead of leading them, says Michael Hecht, the CEO of GNO, Inc. Hecht and other leaders in New Orleans and the rest of south Louisiana are hoping to avoid that problem by laying the groundwork now for the regions energy industry and critically, its workforce to shift toward clean energy, well before the industry finds itself in a full-on collapse. As part of that effort, a GNO, Inc.-led coalition last month announced its H2theFuture plan, which was awarded tens of millions of federal dollars to boost the development of new hydrogen technology. On one level, H2theFutures goal is to turn South Louisiana into a center for clean hydrogen research, development and production. But if backers are successful, it could become a key pillar in a broader clean energy economy in New Orleans, along with a burgeoning wind power hub in New Orleans East and other initiatives in and around the city and region. "Were trying to avoid the outcome of the Rust Belt, Hecht says, adding, with H2theFuture we are trying to lead the energy evolution and stay ahead of the curve. Even though H2theFuture has ambitious goals, there are still many questions. Details of the project are still being hashed out. And environmental advocates warn that green hydrogen may not deliver what it promises and could even pollute in its own ways if there is not strict oversight. What is H2theFuture? On Sept. 2, the Biden administration awarded the south Louisiana coalition with $50 million in grant funding as part of its Build Back Better regional challenge, a competition that received more than 500 applicants nationwide vying for funding. The goal of the project is to jump-start a transition to using green hydrogen, which doesnt emit carbon, in the states many industries. The state of Louisiana pledged to chip in an additional $24.5 million. Leaders of the H2theFuture project which was one of 21 winning projects across the U.S. to be selected say this initiative could help lower the states carbon emissions, which have accelerated climate change. They also say it will simultaneously create thousands of jobs within the next few years. The project is part of the broader push to make New Orleans a central hub not only for green energy research and development, but also for manufacturing of components needed to produce different types of clean energy. H2theFuture, organizers say, will fund university research, start-ups and workforce training, a clean fueling station for tugboats, along with other large-scale green hydrogen projects. The project also aims to include historically marginalized communities in the state, including rural populations and people of color, in the energy industry transition. At a meeting on Sept. 23 with the U.S. Economic Development Agency assistant secretary Alejandra Castillo, coalition leaders gathered at the Port of South Louisiana, 40 minutes from New Orleans. There, Hecht called H2theFuture a win-win situation. Its a chance to make it right, he says. Louisiana is well-positioned to be a leader in green hydrogen, which is made using renewable electricity sources like wind and solar both of which have been gaining momentum and bipartisan support recently. The state already has infrastructure from the oil and gas industry, including a workforce that can be trained in renewable energies which is especially useful because the coalition only has four years to spend the federal money. At the same time, industries can use green hydrogen in different ways although not all of them are necessarily good for the environment. And advocates for clean energy in the state say there needs to be strong oversight of the project to ensure that it actually helps mitigate the climate crisis were facing. Logan Burke, executive director of the nonprofit Alliance for Affordable Energy, says she wants the government to ensure the project increases the demand for renewable energy in New Orleans and south Louisiana and focuses on using green hydrogen in ways that dont have other harmful effects on the planet. I think the real concern is, how do we trust the companies that have disassembled for so long about their business practices, about their polluting practices, about the economic and environmental impacts of their business, and assume that they actually mean to do good this time? Burke says. What is green hydrogen, exactly? Right now, south Louisianas industries are using massive amounts of hydrogen to make fertilizer, methanol, diesel fuel and to refine oil and steel all of which releases significant amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Thats because it is largely done with gray hydrogen, which is derived from natural gas. Greenhouse gas emissions are typically not captured in the process and that causes pollution. In fact, between its 15 oil refineries and four ammonia facilities, the region consumes 30% of the countrys industrial hydrogen, according to H2theFuture. Hydrogen rarely exists on its own in nature, so it must be separated from other elements, and traditional ways of separating out hydrogen end up releasing carbon into the atmosphere. But using renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen gets hydrogen alone without emitting any carbon aka green hydrogen. By using green hydrogen from sources like wind and solar instead as stored fuel and to make things like fertilizer, the state could dramatically scale back its carbon emissions. Thats because it would shift the reliance from oil and gas. Because the states industries consume so much hydrogen, cutting down our emissions is critical in reducing the countrys total emissions. According to GNO, Inc., which works on economic development projects in the region, the local green hydrogen efforts could also create more than 7,500 jobs in the industry by 2026, and double that by 2030. The jobs will include more technical, blue-collar positions; manufacturing and engineering jobs; and doctorate-level positions, as well as those in accounting, human resources and technology. This is good news for Louisiana, which has seen its energy workforce dwindle, exacerbated by the COVID-19 shutdowns and devastating natural disasters like Hurricanes Laura and Ida in the last few years. It's exciting because we're not waiting until we're playing catch-up with other states, that we're actually pioneering this, says Matt Wolfe, vice president of communications for GNO, Inc. Project leads also predict the jobs could revitalize communities and create jobs in other fields, too. One of the most exciting opportunities that comes with a project of this type is to put our Louisiana people to work in good paying jobs that offer them the opportunity to raise families in the communities in which they choose to live, says Susana Schowen, who represents the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. A lot of people are going to be inspired and invigorated to move to Louisiana and start businesses here or to join some of our existing businesses here, she adds. I think that will have a dramatic impact on the employment landscape. Not without flaws But green hydrogen isnt perfect. Its actually very water intensive, and so depending on where that water comes from will really matter when it comes to saying if it's worthwhile, Burke says. Because hydrogen is just a component used in industrial processes, its environmental impact really depends on how its used. It can still cause a lot of pollution. What is important to understand is that the hydrogen isn't just being absorbed by these industrial uses, it's actually part of an industrial process of sorts, and that industrial process can create emissions, Wolfe says. Lower carbon emissions don't necessarily mean there will be less pollution. Burke says it can actually be worse when used instead of natural gas in gas-fired power plants. If the hydrogen is being used to replace some portion of natural gas in a gas-fired power plant, the local NOx emissions are actually six times higher than burning methane, Burke says. (NOx refers to nitrogen oxides that cause air pollution and contribute to unfavorable elements like smog and acid rain). So while you would get a small reduction in carbon emissions, you get a much higher localized pollution impact for the community. Burke says the Department of Environmental Quality should monitor the project and that the state which has pledged to drastically reduce carbon emissions should give the department money to do so. Anything, even if it is green, any development of hydrogen really needs to have the full environmental and economic impact assessment to understand what those potential risks are, she says. There is money available, whether it's state or federal, to track and hold polluters accountable. It just takes political will to do it. The H2theFuture coalition has three months to come up with a plan to evaluate its own progress, and after that, theyll have check-ins with the federal government every few months to talk about their progress on each of the metrics they choose. Were not going to come up with five metrics that you have to do, says Scott Andes of the U.S. Economic Development Agency, which oversees the Build Back Better regional challenges. Were going to ask you over the next three months to build your own evaluation plan, build what you want to be accountable on. So if we talk a lot about equity in this room, great put it on paper and well ask you about it every quarter. Staying on track will be crucial since the money expires in a few years. This money turns into a pumpkin in March 2027, Andes continues. It goes back to Treasury, and that would be really, really bad. University involvement Because its still early, details of the plan are being hashed out, leaders say. But they say the first priority is actively researching green hydrogen. That also includes developing more efficient technology to create it, particularly so-called electrolyzers which are used to separate hydrogen from other elements. In order for green hydrogen [to be viable] it has to be cost-competitive with dirty hydrogen, Hecht says. A lot of the university work on electrolyzers at UL and LSU are about developing more efficient electrolyzers that will deliver less expensive green hydrogen. The coalition says it will give the University of New Orleans, Louisiana State University and University of Louisiana at Lafayette each $2.4 million to research and test out technologies. UL is already researching and testing out electrolyzers that split hydrogen and oxygen molecules, as is LSU. These are processes that can always be refined, and get better and become more efficient, Wolfe says. I think thats really what the goal is: How can we make this electrolyzer work best? The local universities also play an important role in attracting historically marginalized populations, including people of color and those from rural communities. Community and technical colleges across the state, for example, are developing curriculum to prepare students to work in the green hydrogen sector. Showen, with the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, says schools could adapt curriculums as early as fall 2023. Inclusion is key Addressing and taking steps toward repairing historic inequities is one of the most important parts of the plan, especially as communities struggle to recover from the pandemic. When you win something incredibly competitive, the instinct is, Oh, we must be really, really great, and everything weve done we should just do at a larger scale, Andes says. Thats actually not how we thought about [it]. We wanted places that had the capacity to change when necessary, with the ability to assess what was going on, and have the thoughtfulness and wherewithal and courage to do things differently. Thousands of workers in recent years have lost jobs in the traditional oil and gas industry, and environmental racism has put polluting power plants and refineries in Black communities for decades. H2theFuture aims to change the tide, in part, by working with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Dillard, Xavier, Southern and Grambling universities, and other community organizations on getting Black residents to work in the industry with high-paying jobs. Theres $22 million in the budget for a series of university programming, business development and entrepreneurship training, though the coalition has not decided yet exactly how much will go to HBCUs. Representatives from local HBCUs, meanwhile, have pledged to reach out to students outside of Louisiana to try and entice them to come here for college and stay for work after they graduate. And there is also a major emphasis to attract the states own residents to work in the emerging industry. Dr. Anderson Sunda-Meya, a physics professor and the interim dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at Xavier University of Louisiana, says he expects the student population to swell in the next few years because of these new opportunities to revamp the energy sector. Forty percent of the student body is from South Louisiana, he says, and 60% comes from all over. Xavier University, he points out, is an institution that already attracts students to its robust STEM programs. Sunda-Meya says faculty will be using its pre-existing recruitment tactics, like hosting summer camps and classes for high schoolers, to attract more young people interested in working in the wind and solar industries. It wont be much of a stretch, he says. The university will amplify what weve already been doing, he says. We are hoping to expand research capability using the professors we have now, who can create more energy-focused research. In addition to HBCUs, H2theFuture also has pledged to work with other organizations focused on helping Black people and other disadvantaged groups get jobs in the industry. The Louisiana Parole Project, the Urban League of Louisiana and the Louisiana Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation all will receive support and offer feedback. The bigger clean energy picture Ultimately, the green hydrogen project is part of the broader effort underway in the city to turn New Orleans into the Silicon Valley of clean energy research, development and manufacturing. City Council President Helena Moreno has made clean energy one of her top policy priorities during her time on the council and has been working with local business leaders, state officials and the Biden administration to find ways to build the needed infrastructure. In New Orleans East, for instance, wind energy companies have already taken hold, producing blades and other materials for projects across the country. Likewise, the city has begun exploring ways it can help nurture the industry, including studying how local governments have developed coastal wind energy in Rhode Island and other parts of the country. The University of New Orleans also will open a workspace in 2023, centered around green hydrogen and wind power. The New Energy Center of the United States aka NEXUS will host office spaces for start-ups in the emerging industries and serve as a space for networking and other educational opportunities. Were willing to do everything necessary to ensure that we have generational, economic growth for our people, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell says. This is our time to bring all of our people along, and bring the country right along with us. The project overall should vastly improve the current state of the energy industry and the reliance on what industry insiders call gray hydrogen. Leaders so far are optimistic, though there is a lot of work to be done, and quickly at that. The impacts could be historic as Louisiana faces a mounting crisis with the acceleration of climate change. And they are optimistic that this new initiative could also get the ball rolling on future programs and inspire the rest of the country to get on board with similar programs. This should not be a once in a generation investment, Castillo of the EDA says. If we could do this multiple times, our nation would be in such a different way. The company that runs Britains biggest power station has agreed to pay $3.2 million to settle air pollution claims against two of its wood pellet mills in northeast Louisiana. Each worth $1.6 million, the two settlements amount to the largest paid to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality in at least 10 years, an agency spokesman said on Monday. According to legal filings, England-based power company Drax broke several air quality rules at mills in the small communities of Bastrop and Urania. The mills produce pellets that are burned at a power plant in north-central England. The settlements may be unusually large for DEQ, but they're a drop in the bucket for for Drax, said Patrick Anderson, an attorney for the Environmental Integrity Project. The company reported record profits of $226 million for the first half of 2022. While these fines may not hurt Draxs bottom line, and the facilities continue to pollute, the sums represent some of the largest settlements levied by Louisiana against environmental violators in the state in decades, Anderson said. The magnitude of these penalties show that the industry poses serious risks to communities across the southeastern U.S. Environmental groups have for years accused Draxs mills of emitting hundreds of tons of volatile organic compounds, known as VOCs, per year in violation of the companys Clean Air Act permits. VOCs are a collection of chemicals that cause ground-level smog that can be harmful to breathe, especially for elderly people, children and sufferers of asthma and other lung conditions. The chemicals are released at the mills when trees are dried in kilns and then processed into pellets. Similar complaints were lodged against a Drax mill in Gloster, Mississippi, spurring enforcement action that led to a $2.5 million fine last year from the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. According to the Environmental Integrity Project, Draxs Morehouse Bioenergy mill in Bastrop was permitted to emit less than 250 tons of VOCs but actually released more than 1,100 tons per year. Bastrop is a majority-Black town of about 9,000 people. More than 40% of residents live under the poverty line. In the settlements, Drax denies it committed violations and makes no admission of wrongdoing. Such no-fault settlements are a common tactic for DEQ, which often aims to avoid costly and lengthy legal entanglements with large companies that violate environmental laws. The safety of our people and residents of the communities in which we operate remains our top priority and we take our environmental responsibilities extremely seriously, a Drax spokesperson said Monday. We have worked with the LDEQ and invested in our pellet plants to ensure they comply with their environmental permits. The company says recent equipment upgrades at the Bastrop, LaSalle and Gloster mills should reduce VOC emissions. Drax produces pellets with low-grade timber, usually pine, from forests in the South. The pellets are transported to the Port of Greater Baton Rouge, stored in large domes and then shipped to a former coal plant in North Yorkshire, England. Demand for wood pellets shot up after European regulators classified emissions from wood-fired plants as a greener alternative to coal- and gas-powered generators. That made Drax eligible for large clean energy subsidies in what the Environmental Integrity Project calls a misguided bid to reduce carbon emissions. Many climate scientists say cutting down, shipping and burning trees for energy is worsening climate change. Drax has also received financial support from Louisiana. In 2012, the state offered Drax an incentive package that included a $1.7 million economic development loan for building the mill in Bastrop. While the industrys growth has led to accusations of deforestation and air pollution, it has also meant jobs in a region that sorely needs them. Northeast Louisianas timber-dependent economy slowed after lumber and paper mills began closing more than a decade ago. According to Drax, its relatively new mill operations support about 1,200 jobs and contribute $175 million per year to the economies of Louisiana and Mississippi. Two new plants that will use wood pellets are planned in Louisiana. Arbor Renewable Gas is set to build a plant in West Baton Rouge and Origin Materials announced plans to put a facility in Geismar. Correction: An earlier version misstated the use of wood pellets at two planned facilities in Louisiana. +12 Sawmills and wood pellet plants pop up across Louisiana as firms bet on timber industry Earlier this month, Gov. John Bel Edwards and a gaggle of other officials trekked to the tiny town of Plain Dealing in northern Bossier Parish The Moto G72 has arrived following a short teaser campaign. Billed as Motorola's latest mid-range smartphone, the Moto G72 has a 6.55-inch and 120 Hz pOLED display, a 108 MP primary camera and a 5,000 mAh battery, among other features. Sadly, Motorola has chosen a weaker chipset to keep costs down. 4 Reviews Motorola has introduced another Moto Gx2 series smartphone, having already released numerous models like the Moto G82 this year. Unsurprisingly, the Moto G72 resembles its siblings, albeit with a few differences. For one, Motorola has equipped the Moto G72 with a different camera housing than other Moto Gx2 smartphones. However, the curved back panel, flat display and centred punch-hole camera should feel familiar to those who have used recent Moto G smartphones. According to Motorola, the Moto G72 utilises the MediaTek Helio G99, a chipset also found in the POCO M5. Incidentally, the Redmi Pad is also expected to feature the budget chipset. For reference, the MediaTek Helio G99 has two ARM Cortex-A76 cores, six Cortex-A55 cores and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. Additionally, the Moto G72 has a 6.55-inch display that relies on pOLED technology and operates at 2,460 x 1,080 pixels with a 120 Hz refresh rate. Motorola states that it has integrated the device's fingerprint scanner within its display, while a 16 MP (f/2.45) camera sits behind its small punch hole. Separately, Motorola has included 108 MP primary (f/1.7), 8 MP ultra-wide-angle (f/2.2) and 2 MP macro (f/2.4) rear-facing cameras. The number of Hoosier women dying in childbirth, or within one year of delivery, is soaring even before Indiana's near-total abortion ban potentially compels up to 8,000 additional women each year to carry their pregnancies to term. A new report by the Indiana Maternal Mortality Review Committee shows 92 pregnant and postpartum women died in connection with the 78,500 live births in Indiana during 2020, a 46% increase from the state's 63 maternal deaths in 2019, and the 60 maternal deaths identified by the committee for 2018. Nearly 4 out of 5 maternal deaths tallied in Indiana for 2020 were preventable, the committee found. According to the report, 18 of the 92 deaths (20%) were directly related to medical issues associated with pregnancy, and mostly occurred shortly before, during or within six weeks of giving birth. Of the remaining 74 deaths, drug overdoses were the leading cause and accounted for 30.4% of pregnancy associated deaths, followed by undermined causes, motor vehicle crashes and gunshot wounds, the report said. Data show Black women had the highest rate of pregnancy associated deaths in 2020 with 208.4 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. That was nearly twice the maternal mortality rate of white women in Indiana, 107.8 per 100,000, and also well above the rate for Hispanic women, 70.8 per 100,000, according to the report. The state's overall 2020 maternal mortality rate of 117.1 deaths per 100,000 live births is up from 74.2 maternal deaths per 100,000 births recorded in 2019, as well as the 2018 rate of 77.2 per 100,000, the report said. Dr. Kristina Box, the state health commissioner, said the tireless work of the review committee to identify and confirm maternal deaths in Indiana sets the stage for policymakers to implement measures aimed at reducing the number of maternal deaths in the future. "The committee honors those who have died and understands the impact on their families and communities," Box said. "The Indiana Department of Health is committed to learning from their review processes and partnering with other state and local agencies to implement recommendations detailed in this report." Those recommendations include increasing state funding for maternal health improvements, such as publicly funded child care beginning in infancy; comprehensive, evidence-based sex education; universal access to long-lasting, reversible contraception; Medicaid and insurance coverage for more medical procedures; and access to public transportation. The committee also is urging state lawmakers to increase funding for mental health and substance abuse treatment; the Department of Child Services and other social service agencies capable of intervening, when necessary, with Hoosier families in crisis; and services to connect high-risk patients to appropriate medical care. "Preventing infant and maternal death is a priority for Indiana. Policy makers and health care systems should seek to provide system-level solutions and policy options," the report said. "Policy makers have the unique authority to align resources and enact laws for statewide application. Health systems and social service networks have a significant opportunity to prevent maternal mortality. Integrating standardized practices, provider education, safe prescribing practices, and coordinated support for Indiana women during the pre-, ante, and post-partum periods can improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction and reduce costs for providers," according to the report. State Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, said any state efforts toward reducing maternal mortality should begin in Gary, which he recently described as a "health care desert." "Being Black in America is bad for your health. Being a Hoosier living in Gary is bad for your health. These statements have only become more true as the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the long-standing health care inequalities facing people of color from disproportionately underserved communities," Smith said. "Systematic disparities require systematic changes, including government funding, adequate health funding, local partnerships, effective policies and increased research," he added. Meanwhile, state Rep. Maureen Bauer, D-South Bend, said Senate Enrolled Act 1 a new state law that bans all abortions in Indiana except in time-limited cases of pregnancies caused by rape or incest, or when the life of a pregnant woman is at risk is likely to make worse what she described as Indiana's maternal mortality "crisis." "We know it will force more pregnant women and girls in Indiana to face real, life-threatening situations, resulting in permanent physical impairment and death," Bauer said. "We know it will further contribute to, and exacerbate, the brain drain in our state and our ability to solve the worker shortage as more Hoosiers face retirement age." The near-total abortion ban, which took effect Sept. 15, was put on hold a week later after Republican Owen County Judge Kelsey Hanlon determined it runs afoul of privacy protections contained in the Indiana Constitution. Republican Attorney General Todd Rokita, a Munster native, has appealed that decision to try to put into effect the first-in-the-nation abortion restrictions approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly and Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb following the June 24 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that repealed the right to abortion established by the high court's 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling. According to the Indiana Department of Health, zero Hoosier women died in connection with the 8,414 abortions in the state during 2021. Steelworkers have ratified a new contract at the Cleveland-Cliffs' mines that supply iron ore to Northwest Indiana's steel mills. Workers voted to ratify a new four-year contract with the Ohio-based steelmaker, the largest flat-rolled steel producer in the United States, that will raise pay by 20% and not increase out-of-pocket costs for health insurance. It covers an estimated 2,000 steelworkers at four local unions in mines and pelletizing facilities in Minnesota and Michigan. The union said the "yes" vote was "overwhelming." USW District 11 Director Emil Ramirez negotiated the new collective bargaining agreement. He said the new contract includes higher pay, improved benefits and a pledge to invest in the mines to support their sustainability. Our work will be more prosperous and our jobs more secure with the new contract in place, Ramirez said. Our contract ensures that the standard of living for USW members, our families and communities will continue to improve." The new pact covers Cleveland-Cliffs' Tilden and Empire mines in Michigan and United Taconite and Hibbing Taconite mines in Minnesota. It's a 47-month labor agreement that started on Oct. 1. We are pleased to reach new labor agreements that are fair, equitable and beneficial for our employees, their families and the company. With a strong and loyal workforce, we are confident that Cleveland-Cliffs will continue to be the benchmark in the iron and steel industry," Chairman, President and CEO Lourenco Goncalves said. "We thank all the members of the USW and Cliffs negotiating teams for their dedication to reach these agreements. About 12,000 USW members at 13 Cleveland-Cliffs mills across the country are voting now on a tentative four-year contract. The ratification procedure is slated to be completed on Oct. 12. USW election tellers will go to Pittsburgh, where the bargaining has been taking place, to count the ballots. VALPARAISO Jury selection is set to begin Tuesday in a trial of a 26-year-old man accused of molesting a girl while she was sleeping at her Portage home. The girl's mother said Brian Wadas, of Portage, denied in a text message conversation that he molested the child, "but also alluded that if anything happened, he did not remember because he was asleep," according to police. Wadas, who was known by the girl, has been charged with Level 1 felony child molesting and lesser felony counts of child molesting and neglect of a dependent, records show. A Level 1 felony carries a potential prison term of between 20 and 40 years. The trial will take place before Porter Superior Court Judge Mike Fish. The alleged victim, who is only identified as being less than 14 years of age, told her mother that on March 23, 2021, Wadas touched her inappropriately, police said. "Victim then became upset and said 'then he touched me,' while crossing her arms and speaking angrily," a court document states. "Victim went on to say that this hurt, and she stomped her foot." During an interview with investigators, "Victim said she told (Wadas) to stop, but he told her no," police said. "She stated this made her 'so upset.'" The girl told investigators she felt scared, police said. CALUMET CITY A gathering of teenagers in Calumet City turned violent Saturday night when three teens were shot, police said. Police said they responded around 10:45 p.m. to the 1 block of 157th Street after getting a ShotSpotter alert and reports of a gunshot victim. When officers arrived they found two gunshot victims among a group of juveniles gathered at the scene, police said. According to police, the shooting victims were a 16-year-old male and a 17-year-old female. Both were transported to a hospital for treatment. Police said officers later learned a third gunshot victim, a 17-year-old male, went to the hospital on his own. All three shooting victims suffered injuries that are not considered life-threatening, police said. The incident remains under investigation by the Calumet City Police Department. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the police department at 708-868-2500. EAST CHICAGO Eight to 10 million gallons a day of wastewater is flowing into the Grand Calumet River while contractors work to repair a sewer main break. A semi-truck and trailer sank into a sinkhole by East Chicago's wastewater treatment plant Wednesday, causing the spill of raw sewage crews are still scrambling to fix. The sunken truck ruptured a 42-inch Alder Street sewer force main carrying most of the city's wastewater, according to the city. "A catastrophic event occurred wherein a 42-inch diameter force main, carrying approximately 80% of the plant's daily influent flow of wastewater from our Alder Street lift station, collapsed, resulting in the flooding of 152nd Street and Indianapolis Boulevard," East Chicago said in a public service advisory Monday morning. "Immediate steps taken by the city included the pumping of the wastewater from the broken force main location into the publicly owned treatment works. Additionally, the sanitary pumps at the Alder lift station were shut off, such that any wastewater flow from the Alder lift station was pumped via storm pumps into the Grand Calumet River at our combined sewer overflow outfall location located on the west side of the Cline Avenue frontage road." The Indiana Department of Environmental Management estimates the flow from the line carries a volume ranging from 8 million gallons per day to as much as 21 million gallons per day during heavy rains. East Chicago brought in a contractor to fix the problem, but the discharge at the combined sewer overflow, or CSO, site continues. "This discharge will continue until the city and its contractors are able to install line stops at the upstream and downstream section of broken force main and install temporary bypass plumbing to restore the connection of the force main to the publicly owned treatment works," East Chicago said in its public service advisory. "Once the bypass plumbing is installed, the sanitary pumps at Alder lift station will be turned on and the emergency bypass discharge to the Grand Calumet will cease. During this time, the city is conducting daily inspections of outfall discharge and has implemented a daily sampling program which includes the collection of water samples from the Grand Calumet River at the outfall location as well as locations upstream and downstream of the outfall." IDEM said it did not observe any signs that aquatic life was harmed in the river, which was long a dumping ground for steel mills, refineries and other industrial sites from across the heavily industrialized Calumet Region, though it is being gradually restored. East Chicago said the water in the Grand Cal in the vicinity of the overflow is currently unsafe. "The City of East Chicago recommends that individuals avoid direct contact with water in the Grand Calumet River within 1,000 yards of the CSO #003 outfall location until this emergency bypass release has been terminated and the river conditions are returned to pre-emergency conditions," it said. "Consumption of, or direct contact with, waste-contaminated water could make you ill." The city's sanitary district treats wastewater from 5,440 homes, 200 government offices, 1,265 commercial businesses and 26 major industrial firms. So far this year, it has collected on average 12.4 million gallons per day. Northwest Indiana Community Action will honor four individuals for helping people overcome adverse childhood experiences that can lead to bad outcomes later in life. The nonprofit will bestow the first Community Action ACEs Champion Awards at its upcoming Reimagine Conference. The theme is "Healing Our Future." It was important to us to recognize those individuals who have dedicated their careers to helping Northwest Indiana overcome adversities and challenges caused by ACEs, NWICAs Communication Manager Claudia Pena said. The awardees have helped make Northwest Indiana a more resilient community, Pena said. Research and innovation in toxic stress and adverse experiences that cause trauma is not often publicized," Pena said. "All of us have experienced trauma. Our resilience is what sets us apart. When leaders can help people heal and gain resilience or teach us to respond differently, we are changing our communities for the better. These awards recognize these change agents in our communities. This year's honorees include Michael Cortina, Samantha Burgett, Dr. Amanda Zelechoski and Ken Barry. Cortina won the Community Action ACEs Champion Award for developing "The Cortina Method," a brain-based healing methodology to resolve trauma without having to relive or re-experience distress Burgett, Valparaiso Police Department's first police social worker, was honored for founding Community Change Center, a local nonprofit that seeks to help the incarcerated reenter society in Lake, LaPorte and Porter counties. She also teaches a restorative justice class in Valparaiso Universitys sociology department. Zelechoski is getting an award for helping to create the Pandemic Parenting free digital resource and her psychological research on the impact of COVID-19 on children and parents. Barry is getting recognized for his numerous philanthropic pursuits, including founding the Force for Good Community Development Corp., which aims to improve the quality of life in Gary, help small businesses and provide opportunities for youth. Forget (some of) what we just taught you On Friday and Saturday, we typically run into a different type of puzzle: the themeless kind. The name is self-explanatory: Its a grid with no theme answers. As far as the difficulty goes, Will Shortz, editor of the New York Times Crossword, said in an email that themeless crosswords arent inherently harder than themed ones. But he added that they tend to be harder than themed ones, because they have longer answers, especially ones that have rarely or never appeared in crosswords before. The added answer length is built in, as The Times has a lower word limit for themeless puzzles 72, compared with 78 for themed ones and its not at all unusual to see puzzles go even lower. Because of the added space, themeless puzzles are afforded more room for fresher answers, which moves the needle toward their being naturally harder to solve. Just how difficult do they get? Sam Ezersky, a digital puzzles editor, said, We save our fireworks for Friday and Saturday, if you will. The other factor is that in themed puzzles, the construction is limited by the theme itself. This isnt necessarily a bad thing sometimes an excellent theme takes a puzzle from just good to great but it means that constructors often end up using similar fill, or nonthemed, answers in a themed crossword. After youve solved a lot of puzzles, youre bound to start recognizing these as they come up, and they dont surprise you in the same way an answer like GAY PORN or COINKYDINK might. Dont worry too much if this is making your head spin. You can use the skills youve already learned from the puzzles you solved earlier in the week to help you solve a themeless. First, find something you know and build from there. There are still plenty of three- to five-letter answers in any Friday or Saturday puzzle, and odds are you already know the answer to at least one or two of them. Second, there arent really any new types of clues at the end of the week, but they tend to lean even more on misdirection. Will gave us the example of a simple clue like Light, which can be a noun, a verb or an adjective. Its hard to answer clues like that if you dont have a crossing answer. Light has appeared in New York Times Crosswords 22 times since 1993, according to XWordInfo.com, an online database of New York Times Crossword puzzles. On April 18, 2006, a Tuesday, the answer was AIRY. On April 30, 2004, a Friday, the answer was LAMP. On April 30, 2016, a Saturday, the answer was SET ABLAZE. So youll have to use your solving skills to try to figure out which meaning the puzzle is asking you for, but its nothing you havent already done. On Feb. 18, 1965, the Cambridge Union hosted a debate between James Baldwin and William F. Buckley Jr. The resolution: The American Dream Is at the Expense of the American Negro. Baldwin, unsurprisingly, spoke for the affirmative. Buckley, who agreed to appear after several other American conservatives had refused, opposed him. Elevator Repair Service, the experimental theater company, revives this discussion every word of it and a few more in Baldwin and Buckley at Cambridge, directed by John Collins at the Public Theater in Manhattan. Greig Sargeant, a longtime company member who conceived the piece, stars as Baldwin. Ben Jalosa Williams, another veteran, plays Buckley. The set for this Cambridge University institution is minimal two tables, two chairs, two tabletop lecterns. Sargeant and Williams dont imitate the real mens accents and cadences, the better to bring the debate closer, showing how germane its arguments remain, with Baldwin insisting that America has been built on the forced labor of its Black inhabitants and Buckley countering that if Black Americans would only put in the effort, they too could enjoy of its fruited plains. House lights stay on through most of the show, implicating the audience. Baldwin and Buckley overlaps with a couple of past E.R.S. shows. Williams has played Buckley at least once before, in the companys No Great Society, which staged an episode of The Steve Allen Show, in which Jack Kerouac confronted establishment types. Arguendo, which opened at the Public in 2013, presented oral arguments from a Supreme Court case in which exotic dancers advocated for the right to perform nude. E.R.S. often works from texts novels, verbatim transcripts that are not intrinsically dramatic. The company tends to approach these texts obliquely, playfully, with an elbow to the ribs. There are few elbows here, however. Christopher Rashee-Stevenson, a Black actor, horses around with his part of a white Cambridge undergraduate who speaks on Buckleys side. (Gavin Price, a white actor, plays the young man, also white, who bolsters Baldwins.) Otherwise the debate is staged with an unfrilled gravitas. Sargeant is forceful, with a tinge of Baldwins mannered veneer. Williams is lightly oleaginous. Neither relies on exaggeration or archness. The gonzo props and goofy sound design and butt dances of prior E.R.S. shows? These do not appear. RIO DE JANEIRO Since Brazils high-stakes presidential race began last year, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazils former leftist president, had led the polls by a wide margin. Many analysts had even predicted he would take the presidency in the first round on Sunday, ousting President Jair Bolsonaro after just one term. But hours after the polls closed, the two candidates were neck and neck, with more than 79 percent of votes counted. From those results, it appeared nearly certain that the race was heading to a runoff on Oct. 30. Datafolha, one of Brazils biggest pollsters, projected late Sunday there was no chance that Mr. da Silva would be elected on Sunday. The early results were a major victory for Mr. Bolsonaro, who had said for weeks that the polls were severely underestimating his support. So far, the results had suggested he was right. The contest has been widely regarded as the most important vote in decades for Latin Americas largest nation. That is in part because of the starkly different visions the two men set forth for this country of 217 million people, and because Brazil faces a host of challenges in the years ahead, including environmental threats, rising hunger, a sputtering economy and a deeply polarized population. While President Jair Bolsonaro has been suggesting that he may dispute a loss in Sundays election, Brazils courts, lawmakers and electoral officials have tried to ease worries at home and abroad by promising that the results will be respected and that the nations democracy will not be threatened by a coup. Many of those same officials, however, admit privately that there is still the potential for violence. Mr. Bolsonaro has built a sizable base of fervent supporters, who have become increasingly convinced that the election will be rigged against their candidate. In July, three out of four supporters of Mr. Bolsonaro told Brazils most prominent polling company that they trusted the voting machines only a little or not at all. The New York Times interviewed more than a dozen of Mr. Bolsonaros supporters ahead of the vote about their views on election security. While some said they didnt believe the vote would be manipulated, most expressed deep mistrust in the integrity of the electoral process. And should Mr. Bolsonaro lose, many said they were prepared to take to the streets, especially if the president urged them on. The leaders of nine European NATO members signed a joint statement on Sunday supporting Ukraines bid for membership, an application that is likely to face hurdles. The statement signed by the leaders of the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia also condemned Russias claims that it was annexing four regions of Ukraine after widely discredited referendums conducted by occupation governments. Ukraine has long sought to become a member of the mutual-defense alliance. In 2008, NATO promised Ukraine and Georgia that they could someday become members without detailing a timeline. But the alliance has done little to act on that promise. We firmly stand behind the 2008 Bucharest NATO Summit decision concerning Ukraines future membership, the leaders said in their statement. Leaks from the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines have finally stopped after three separate ruptures were discovered in the natural gas lines last week, the Danish Energy Agency said on Sunday. Nord Stream AG, the company that manages the pipeline, told the agency that a stable pressure now appears to have been achieved on the two Nord Stream 1 pipelines, meaning that gas is no longer flowing out of them, the agency said in a statement on Twitter. Several news outlets reported that the company said that pressure from water entering the ruptured pipelines had stopped the gas from leaking, but the claim could not be independently verified. The two major lines which were built to deliver natural gas from Russia to Germany ruptured in three separate places last week after explosions under the Baltic Sea. Although the official cause has not been identified, political leaders in Europe and the United States have suggested that the incident was an act of sabotage, as much of the speculation about responsibility has focused on Russia, whose state-controlled energy company, Gazprom, is the main owner of the pipelines. KRAMATORSK, Ukraine Ukrainian forces on Sunday hunted Russian stragglers in the key city of Lyman, which was taken back from Russia after its demoralized troops, according to a major Russian newspaper, fled with empty eyes, and despite Moscows baseless claim it had annexed the region surrounding the city. Two days after President Vladimir V. Putin held a grandiose ceremony to commemorate the incorporation of four Ukrainian territories into Russia, the debacle in the city Lyman, a strategic railway hub in the eastern region of Donbas ratcheted up pressure on a Russian leadership already facing withering criticism at home for its handling of the war and its conscription of up to 300,000 men into military service. Russias retreat from Lyman, which sits on a riverbank that has served as a natural division between the Russian and Ukrainian front lines, came after weeks of fierce fighting. In an unusually candid article published Sunday, the prominent Russian newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda reported that in the last few days of their occupation, Russian forces in Lyman had been plagued by desertion, poor planning and the delayed arrival of reserves. LONDON The director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London once told the BBC that the museum was proud to have been supported by the Sacklers the family whose philanthropy is tied to the drug at the heart of the opioid crisis. The museum was not going to be taking its name off the walls, the director, Tristram Hunt, added at a 2019 news conference. Yet now, the museum has done just that: removing signage that pointed visitors to its Sackler Courtyard, the glittering multimillion-dollar main entrance that opened to much fanfare in 2017, as well as to its Sackler Center for Arts Education. The museum, which has one of the worlds leading design and decorative arts collections, said in a statement that it had mutually agreed with the Sackler family that the name would be removed. We have no current plans to rename the spaces, the statement added. The changes, which were previously reported by The Observer, a British newspaper, will take some time to be complete, a museum spokeswoman said. The name still appears on the museums website. The Metropolitan Opera has over the past 16 years built a lucrative business around broadcasting operas live into movie theaters around the world, attracting an audience of millions for classics like The Magic Flute and Madama Butterfly. Now the company is hoping to build on that success: The Met announced on Monday that it would begin livestreaming some operas directly into living rooms for customers who live far from cinemas that broadcast its productions. The service, called The Met: Live at Home, is part of the companys efforts to expand the audience for opera, at a time when it is grappling with financial challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic as well as longstanding box-office declines. Peter Gelb, the Mets general manager, said in a statement, We wanted to make our live performances available to people who dont have ready access to the movie theaters that carry the Met, whether you reside in the mountains of Montana or on assignment in Antarctica. Tuesday HOCUS POCUS (1993) 9 p.m. on Freeform. Once the leaves start to change, the air brings a chill and every grocery store stocks pumpkin-spice products, its time to get in the Halloween spirit. What better way than with the witchy Sanderson sisters? Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler and Kathy Najimy star as the sister witches who are resurrected on Halloween night. This will also catch you up for the long-awaited sequel, now on Disney+. Wednesday THE REAL LOVE BOAT 9 p.m. on CBS. Inspired by the 1970s scripted show, this reality series is The Bachelor meets Below Deck. Rebecca Romijn and Jerry OConnell host 12 singles (including the boats own captain, bartender and cruise director) who mingle as they travel around the Mediterranean. To stay on the boat, couples need to keep pairing up as new contestants come aboard throughout the trip. ICONS UNEARTHED: THE SIMPSONS 10 p.m. on VICE. Last season, this documentary series dove deep into all things Star Wars. Now, they are back examining the history behind The Simpsons, one of the longest-running prime-time comedies. Throughout six-episodes some of the writers, animators and executives share details from the show and reflect on its 34 years on air. Thursday STATION 19 8 p.m. on ABC. This Greys Anatomy spinoff follows a Seattle firehouse whose workplace conflicts often seep into firefighters personal dramas. Season 6 starts off as the Station 19 crew deals with the fallout of a tornado in the city, and Travis Montgomery (Jay Hayden) continues his mayoral campaign. There is a famous saying in Talmud, attributed to the sage Tarfon: It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you free to neglect it. For Tarfon, the work was the study of Torah that is, the unfinishable task of trying to understand Gods word. But with the gradual and tenuous emancipations of European Jewry throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Tarfons injunction to study became assimilated too, as Jews were admitted to secular schools and exchanged the traditional texts for the sciences. In effect, the task stayed the same, while the work itself changed, from the study of Gods word to the study of (for example) medicine and law. For German Jews in particular, the work came to stand for the free transmission of knowledge, the assertion of moral absolutes and ethical standards, and the preservation of the Enlightenment-era democratic rationality that had finally liberated them from the ghettos in the revolutions of 1848, and that would keep them out of the ghettos for just under a century. One of the last masterpieces of German Jewish culture, Lion Feuchtwangers 1933 novel The Oppermanns, offers its own version of Tarfon: It is upon us to begin the work. It is not upon us to complete it. Superficially, The Oppermanns is a novel about the decline and fall of a bourgeois German Jewish furniture dynasty whose members are unable to countenance the rising threat of National Socialism. It is also, in a way, a novel about this phrase, which recurs in its pages like a psychological test or a trial of identity. The phrase first appears on a postcard written by the hero of this novel, Gustav Oppermann, to himself on his 50th birthday; the work hes referring to is the biography he is attempting to write of the German philosopher and dramatist Gotthold Lessing. Later, as a refugee in Switzerland, Gustav finds the unsent postcard mixed up with a bundle of smuggled documents detailing Nazi atrocities. This is where the work becomes political: an exhortation to parse truth from lie and publicize the evil. Next, the phrase occurs to Gustav on the shores of Lake Lugano, where the Oppermann family has gathered to hold a final Passover: The work is now the perpetuation of Jewishness in the face of an enemy even crueler than Pharaoh. We meet the phrase one last time, when Gustav having survived capture by the Nazis and a stint in a forced labor camp has the postcard sent to his nephew, who has escaped to England. For the younger generation, Feuchtwanger implies, the work must mean something else again, perhaps the work of self-reinvention, perhaps the work of healing. Consumer demand for new automobiles appears to be holding steady in the United States at least for now despite recent interest rate increases, concerns about the broader economy and record-high vehicle prices. The latest evidence came Monday when General Motors said its new-vehicle sales in the U.S. market increased 24 percent in the third quarter, as higher sales of cars and certain sport-utility vehicles more than offset lower sales of full-size pickup trucks. The automaker said it sold 555,580 light trucks and cars in the three-month period that ended Sept. 30, compared with 446,997 for the same period in 2021, when production of key components in Asia was constrained. Supply chain issues have hampered the industry since the start of the pandemic, but G.M. said Monday that its access to computer chips had improved. Kim Kardashian has found there is a price to be paid when influencers hawk investment opportunities like crypto to their adoring fans without disclosing they are getting paid to do so. The Securities and Exchange Commission announced a $1.26 million settlement Monday morning with the celebrity for not disclosing she had been paid $250,000 to promote a crypto token sold by EthereumMax. Ms. Kardashian promoted the crypto product as a good investment on her Instagram page in June 2021. Ms. Kardashian, 41, became famous through her familys long-running reality TV show that chronicles their daily lives. One of the hallmarks of her brand is promoting the products she uses and wears. Last year, a number of celebrities began endorsing crypto assets in commercials. The S.E.C. has warned a number of times that investors should not buy any investment simply because it has the backing of a celebrity. Regulators have a long history of going after paid celebrities and others for not disclosing that they have been compensated for promoting an investment product. Thats quite a remarkable expansion of our concerns, he said, adding that YMTC was a prime example of this kind of company. The White House declined to comment on the planned restrictions. A spokesperson for the Bureau of Industry and Security at the Commerce Department, which has authority over the types of technology that companies can export out of the United States, said they could not confirm anything at this point. If enacted, the measures will be the strongest push to date by the United States to hit at Chinas flourishing supercomputer and data center market. Many Chinese universities, state-run companies and internet firms run supercomputers that have a range of abilities. Plenty are used for important, if prosaic, tasks like analyzing road traffic, managing social networks or predicting weather, but analysts and researchers have shown how others are used for more malign purposes. China has used some supercomputers to power invasive surveillance systems that target ethnic minorities. Others have been used by Beijing to model nuclear blasts and design next-generation weapons that could evade American defenses. For instance, in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang, where hundreds of thousands of minority Uyghurs have been interned and surveilled, a supercomputer built with chips made by Intel and Nvidia has been used to process footage collected from ubiquitous video cameras in the area. Both Intel and Nvidia have said they were unaware of what they called misuse of their technology. The U.S. government has sought to curb the flow of technology to projects like these in recent years, but those efforts have been frustrated by the wide availability of powerful microchips. Many such products that are sold to China are manufactured outside the United States, meaning the U.S. governments traditional methods of regulation, which focus on products exported from the United States, dont apply. So officials in the Trump and Biden administrations have turned to leveraging the foreign direct product rule, a sweeping regulation that prevents products made anywhere in the world with the help of U.S. technology, machinery or software from being sold to China. Even semiconductors manufactured in other countries are often made with the use of U.S. equipment and software. For years, Karla Cruz has searched New York City for dishes reminiscent of her childhood in Panama, like sancocho, tamales and carimanolas, but there was nothing that emulated those foods she loved. So she promised herself that if there was ever an opportunity, shed open her own Panamanian restaurant. In New York City, where the national dishes of so many countries are available, Panamanians living here have been surprised at the scarcity of restaurants serving their cuisine. This challenge has inspired restaurateurs to fill that gap in recent years. I wanted something that would transport me back to Panama, said Ms. Cruz, 45, in Spanish. She opened KC Gourmet Empanadas on the Lower East Side in 2019 and El Carnaval next door in 2021. HOUSTON At POST Houston, a popular food hall, the lines stretch long for ChopnBlok, where the Nigerian American owner Ope Amosu offers a familiar customizable template rice, vegetables, protein that are deeply influenced by his West African pride, and his London-born, Houston-raised identity. Take the Golden, a nod to the Gold Coast of West Africa and to Mr. Amosus stint as a prep cook at Chipotle while still working as a corporate sales executive. The hearty meal includes smoky jollof rice with a Creole twist, plantains, roasted cauliflower and brussels sprouts, and comes with a vegan honey bean coconut curry thats at once sweet and alluringly tangy. To top it all, customers can choose from various proteins marinated in Cameroon pepper. The traditional West African restaurants that dot southwest Houston are cozy, dimly lit spaces and often family-owned. But at restaurants like ChopnBlok, which regularly appears on the citys dining lists and is lauded on social media by celebrities like the Insecure star Yvonne Orji and the rappers Jidenna and Wale, the West African flavors and staples are quicker, more casual and their owners argue more accessible to non-African diners. Sacheen Littlefeather, the Apache activist and actress who refused to accept the best actor award on behalf of Marlon Brando at the 1973 Oscars, drawing jeers onstage in an act that underscored her criticism of Hollywoods depictions of Native Americans, died on Sunday at her home in Marin County, Calif. She was 75. Her death was announced in a statement by her family and by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Last year, Ms. Littlefeather confirmed on Facebook that she had breast cancer stage four, terminal that had spread to a lung. Her death came just weeks after the Academy apologized to Ms. Littlefeather for her treatment during the Oscars. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in August, she said she was stunned by the apology. I never thought Id live to see the day I would be hearing this, experiencing this, she said. When Ms. Littlefeather, then 26, held up her right hand that night inside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles signaling to the award presenters, the audience and the millions watching on TV that she, acting on Mr. Brandos request, had no desire to ceremoniously accept the shiny golden statue it marked one of the best-known disruptive moments in the history of the Oscars. In the hamlet of Monsey, N.Y., where polio partially paralyzed the legs of a young unvaccinated man in June, only 37 percent of 2-year-olds were up to date with their polio vaccinations as of the beginning of August. In the Amish farmlands in Cattaraugus County in the Southern Tier of New York State, just 9 percent of young children were up to date with their polio vaccines. And along the Pennsylvania border in nearby Steuben County, and in a small hamlet in the farmlands of Tompkins County, barely a quarter of 2-year-olds were up to date. Because vaccinations are required to enroll students in public or private school in New York State, most children are caught up by age 5: Statewide, 99 percent of school-aged children are vaccinated for polio. Still, roughly 100 schools reported vaccination rates at or below 90 percent in the 2020-21 school year across the state. Sixty schools did not submit any vaccination data at all, including some tiny rural schoolhouses that serve Amish students. The specter of polio becoming endemic in America again was once unthinkable. But as state public health officials embark on an urgent campaign to get more people vaccinated, the low rates among preschoolers in some pockets are evidence of both the challenges they face and the threat to the states youngest children the very age group among whom polio is most likely to spread. Former Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson on Monday told jurors in the trial of Thomas J. Barrack Jr., a private equity investor accused of secretly working for the United Arab Emirates, that despite being Americas top diplomat, he was unaware of any back-channel dealings with the oil-producing Gulf state. Mr. Tillerson a former head of Exxon Mobil and a relative outsider in the Trump administration testified that he tried, in his brief and tumultuous stint in government, to keep the nations foreign policy above board by, in part, pushing for checks on outside influence. But in a sometimes slapdash and inscrutable administration, the influence of outside advisers at times frustrated those efforts. Prosecutors have accused Mr. Barrack, a longtime friend of Mr. Trump, of acting as an illegal agent of the Emiratis, seeking to influence the Trump campaign and administration and funneling secret information to the Gulf state. Mr. Tillersons three-hour testimony amounted to a reunion in federal court in Brooklyn of influential figures in the Trump administration, as well as a refresher course in Middle East political crises during Mr. Trumps first year in office. After Mr. Tillerson was fired in March 2018 over Twitter having failed to establish himself as Mr. Trumps chief diplomat, he returned to Texas as a retiree. Aside from a commencement address that spring, animated by a veiled rebuke of Mr. Trump, Mr. Tillerson has rarely spoken publicly about his experience in Washington. Editors Note, Oct. 6: After this article was published, the chief executive of Konnech, Eugene Yu, was arrested in connection with an investigation into the possible theft of personal information about poll workers. In communications with The Times for this article, neither Mr. Yu nor a spokesman for Konnech said that the company was the subject of an investigation. They also asserted that all the companys data was stored on servers in the United States; prosecutors in Los Angeles, who brought the charges against Mr. Yu, said that they had found some company data stored on servers in China. The Times is continuing to report on this story. At an invitation-only conference in August at a secret location southeast of Phoenix, a group of election deniers unspooled a new conspiracy theory about the 2020 presidential outcome. Using threadbare evidence, or none at all, the group suggested that a small American election software company, Konnech, had secret ties to the Chinese Communist Party and had given the Chinese government backdoor access to personal data about two million poll workers in the United States, according to online accounts from several people at the conference. In the ensuing weeks, the conspiracy theory grew as it shot around the internet. To believers, the claims showed how China had gained near complete control of Americas elections. Some shared LinkedIn pages for Konnech employees who have Chinese backgrounds and sent threatening emails to the company and its chief executive, who was born in China. In the months since, Ms. Harman and other local officials, including Sam Liccardo, the mayor of San Jose, have repeatedly met with Uber, hoping to persuade the company to report sexual assaults to law enforcement, if only on a trial basis. But Uber has declined, local officials said, arguing that the victims should control when and how to disclose their experiences. The impasse is part of a larger battle over the way Uber and other ride-hailing companies handle reports of sexual assault. In recent years, both Uber and Lyft have released data revealing the number of assault and harassment incidents reported to the company. The two companies have also started sharing data about dangerous drivers with each other. But some believe the companies should go further. Over the past decade, some sexual assault survivors have sued the big ride-hailing companies, claiming they have failed to protect riders. Since September 2021, at least 40 women have filed such lawsuits against Uber. In August, 13 others sued Lyft. All of the suits are in the initial stages and have yet to go to trial. In 2019, the California Public Utilities Commission ordered Uber to provide more detailed information about sexual assaults on Uber rides, including the names of any witnesses. When Uber failed to comply, the state fined the company $59 million. Uber later settled the case for more than $9 million. Now, the Santa Clara district attorneys office and the mayor of San Jose are arguing that Uber and other ride-hailing companies should report all such incidents to the authorities so that they can be officially investigated. This, they believe, is essential to maintaining public safety. People who assault a rider in an Uber car, they argue, may be kicked off the service, but that will not prevent them from assaulting someone in other situations. The famed composer Andrew Lloyd Webbers unbroken streak on Broadway at least one of his musicals has been onstage since 1979 will not end with the closing of The Phantom of the Opera next year. Lloyd Webber announced Monday that his next musical, Bad Cinderella, will begin performances on Feb. 17, one night before the scheduled closing of the long-running Phantom. Bad Cinderella, which had a previous run with a sparer title, Cinderella, in London, is a contemporary adaptation of the classic fairy tale, now with a consideration of beauty standards and body-shaming, plus bawdy language and same-sex relationships. It adds up to not so much a ball as a blast, Chris Wiegand wrote in a five-star review for The Guardian, adding that it was silly but warm and inclusive, with relatable, down-to-earth heroes and pertinent points about our quest for perfection and our expectations of each other and ourselves. The New York production is to star Linedy Genao, in her first leading role on Broadway. Genao, who described herself in a news release as a proud Dominican American, was in the ensemble of the Broadway production of On Your Feet! and an understudy in the Broadway production of Dear Evan Hansen, and this fall she is to star in a production of On Your Feet! at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, N.J. In fact, not much would need to happen at all. If the polls are right and Election Day were today, the fight for the House would be very close. It would be a district-by-district battle for control, one in which the race might come down to the strengths and weaknesses of individual candidates and campaigns. With a few lucky breaks, Democrats could come out ahead. Those are two huge ifs, of course. But with five weeks to go until the election, those ifs arent exactly a good enough reason to justify writing off the race for the House. How could this be? Its more straightforward than you might think. Democrats hold a narrow lead on the generic congressional ballot, a poll question asking whether voters would prefer Democrats or Republicans for Congress. If Republicans dont have a robust structural advantage, as I wrote last Friday, then why wouldnt the Democrats at least be competitive in the race for Congress? On paper, the Democratic disadvantage is fairly comparable to their disadvantage in the Senate which most everyone agrees Democrats have a decent chance to hold this cycle. Of course, the reason we think Democrats might overcome their obstacles in the Senate is because we have dozens of polls in critical Senate races. Thanks to those polls, we know Democrats lead in Pennsylvania and Arizona, which we might have assumed were tossups otherwise. In contrast, we have no idea whether Democrats are leading in equivalent races for the House: There are almost no nonpartisan House polls at all, and theyre spread out across many more races. But if Democrats can do what they appear to be doing in the Senate, theres no reason to assume they couldnt already be doing something similar in the House. If we had as many House polls as we do in the Senate, perhaps Democrats would appear to be ahead in the race for the House as well. In short, this one unhappy chemistry class could be a case study of the pressures on higher education as it tries to handle its Gen-Z student body. Should universities ease pressure on students, many of whom are still coping with the pandemics effects on their mental health and schooling? How should universities respond to the increasing number of complaints by students against professors? Do students have too much power over contract faculty members, who do not have the protections of tenure? And how hard should organic chemistry be anyway? Dr. Jones, 84, is known for changing the way the subject is taught. In addition to writing the 1,300-page textbook Organic Chemistry, now in its fifth edition, he pioneered a new method of instruction that relied less on rote memorization and more on problem solving. After retiring from Princeton in 2007, he taught organic chemistry at N.Y.U. on a series of yearly contracts. About a decade ago, he said in an interview, he noticed a loss of focus among the students, even as more of them enrolled in his class, hoping to pursue medical careers. Students were misreading exam questions at an astonishing rate, he wrote in a grievance to the university, protesting his termination. Grades fell even as he reduced the difficulty of his exams. The problem was exacerbated by the pandemic, he said. In the last two years, they fell off a cliff, he wrote. We now see single digit scores and even zeros. After several years of Covid learning loss, the students not only didnt study, they didnt seem to know how to study, Dr. Jones said. In the weeks since Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida orchestrated a plan to deliver two planeloads of unauthorized migrants to Marthas Vineyard, questions have arisen over how the state rounded up the asylum seekers, most of them from Venezuela, on the streets of San Antonio. Florida officials have provided little information about the program or how it was engineered. But according to many of the migrants, their journeys began with an offer from a woman they knew only as Perla. Here is what we know about Perla and the role she played in the effort that led to 48 asylum seekers being transported to Massachusetts at Florida taxpayers expense. Who is Perla? Until now, little has been known about the woman who migrants said had identified herself only by her first name, Perla, when she solicited them to join the flights. A person briefed on the investigation by the Bexar County sheriffs office into the matter told The New York Times that the person being looked at in connection with the operation was a woman named Perla Huerta. WASHINGTON President Biden traveled to Puerto Rico on Monday, promising $60 million in hurricane relief funds and every bit of help from the federal government to help the storm-battered territory rebuild faster than in the past. Mr. Biden and Jill Biden, the first lady, visited Ponce, a city on Puerto Ricos southern coast that was hit by Hurricane Fiona two weeks earlier five years after Hurricane Maria, a strong Category 4 storm, decimated the island. For everyone who survived Maria, Fiona must have been an all-too-familiar nightmare, Mr. Biden told a crowd, noting that he was speaking quickly to beat the ominous-looking storm clouds forming overhead. You know better than anyone that over time these losses add up. The trip to Puerto Rico was one of two the Bidens will take this week to survey storm damage. They will visit the Fort Myers area in Florida on Wednesday, according to a person who was familiar with the presidents plans but was not authorized to describe them publicly. The area was hit last week by Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 storm that devastated parts of southwest and central Florida and has left more than 80 people dead. WASHINGTON Two days after Election Day in 2020, Stewart Rhodes, the leader of the Oath Keepers militia, sent an urgent, encrypted message to high-ranking members of his group, telling them to resist allowing Joseph R. Biden Jr. to enter the White House. We arent getting through this without a civil war, he wrote. Setting out their opening statement in the trial of Mr. Rhodes and four other members of the Oath Keepers on charges of seditious conspiracy, federal prosecutors said on Monday that the message was an early step in a broad effort to stop the transfer of presidential power and to use the might of the far-right militia to keep President Donald J. Trump in office. Over the next two months, Mr. Rhodes riled up and recruited dozens of Oath Keepers to join his plot, prosecutors said, eventually deploying them in Washington and across the river in Virginia to disrupt a key moment of the democratic process: the certification of Mr. Bidens victory at a joint session of Congress on Jan. 6, 2021. Ever since our government transferred power from George Washington to John Adams in the year 1797, we have had a core custom of routine and peaceful transfer of power, Jeffrey S. Nestler, a prosecutor, said in Federal District Court in Washington. Once an area largely free of partisan politics, the House Intelligence Committee has become a center of intense political battles. With Democrats in control, the fights have focused on the F.B.I.s and special counsels investigations of Mr. Trump and his Russia connections, as well as Mr. Trumps dealings with Ukraine and his first impeachment. Democrats have said that responsibility for the partisanship lies squarely at the feet of Republicans and their intense defense of Mr. Trump. For his part, Mr. Turner points to the Democrats decision to begin Mr. Trumps first impeachment investigation in the Intelligence Committee. Asked if the Intelligence Committee would investigate work in Ukraine by Mr. Bidens son Hunter, Mr. Turner said the job would go to others in Congress. I believe that there are some committees in Congress that are probably better focused on the issues, both in authorities and resources, to accomplish that, he said. Republicans say they want to investigate Hunter Bidens role at a Ukrainian energy company and involvement with a Chinese billionaire who ran an energy company in China. Nevertheless, Mr. Turners response highlights the limits of what he is trying to do. Even if he succeeds at ramping down partisanship on his committee, other panels like Judiciary which would be led by Representative Jim Jordan, Republican of Ohio and a fierce defender of Mr. Trump are set to conduct aggressive hearings on Hunter Biden. Pressure could also come from within the Intelligence Committee itself, which includes members like Representative Elise Stefanik of New York, a member of the House Republican leadership team. She has been among the fiercest partisan critics of the F.B.I., both for its handling of an investigation into Hunter Biden and its seizing of sensitive documents from Mar-a-Lago, Mr. Trumps club and residence in Florida. It was not immediately known if the victims in the two additional shootings were robbed. The police said on Friday that investigators had reviewed hours of surveillance video and were seeking a person of interest whom they asked the public to help identify. The police published a photo of that person walking, though the photo offered few identifiable clues. Investigators do not know if that person was responsible for all the killings or if others were involved, Officer Joe Silva, a Stockton police spokesman, said on Monday. There could be one person; there could be multiple people, he said. We just dont know. While the investigation continues, the police have asked residents to remain vigilant, to avoid isolated and dimly lit areas and not to travel alone, if possible. The police also asked residents to call a tip line with possible leads and to share video that could help in the investigation. The reward for information that leads to an arrest totaled $115,000 on Tuesday, the authorities said. Were pleading with our community, Officer Silva said, asking for information and mentioning the reward. We do have grieving family members who want some type of closure and were asking people to do the right thing and contact us. The killings have spread anxiety among some residents and prompted some to wonder whether other unsolved homicides in the city might be connected, said Nuri Muhammad, a program strategy manager at Advance Peace Stockton, a community-based organization dedicated to eliminating gun violence. Something is going on in the city of Stockton, and its not gang violence, Mr. Muhammad said. People are clearly shaken by it, he added, and some are concerned that because most of the victims were Hispanic, theres an undertone of some kind of racism. If the federal government doesnt know what is a covered wetland, Justice Gorsuch asked, how is a person subject to criminal time in federal prison supposed to know? Justice Sonia Sotomayor said the agency could be vulnerable on that point. Some of my colleagues are dubious that this is precise enough definition of adjacency, she said, to survive. The case, Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency, No. 21-454, concerns an Idaho couple, Michael and Chantell Sackett, who sought to build a house on what an appeals court called a soggy residential lot near Priest Lake, in the states panhandle. After they started preparing the property for construction in 2007 by adding sand gravel and fill, the agency ordered them to stop and return the property to its original state, threatening them with substantial fines. The couple instead sued the agency, and a dispute about whether that lawsuit was premature reached the Supreme Court in an earlier appeal. In 2012, the justices ruled that the suit could proceed. In a concurring opinion at the time, Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. said the law gave the agency too much power. The reach of the Clean Water Act is notoriously unclear, he wrote. Any piece of land that is wet at least part of the year is in danger of being classified by E.P.A. employees as wetlands covered by the act, and according to the federal government, if property owners begin to construct a home on a lot that the agency thinks possesses the requisite wetness, the property owners are at the agencys mercy. Lower courts then considered whether the Sacketts property was a wetland that the agency could regulate, concluding that it qualified under a 2006 Supreme Court decision, Rapanos v. United States, which featured competing tests for deciding that question. How did we get here? Before the Cures Act provision, doctors had different approaches to giving patients their test results. Some offices would contact patients within hours or days; others sent paper results via mail. Some would take a no news is good news approach, sharing results only if they revealed something worrisome; others waited to share results in person. Lawmakers hoped to standardize the way we get results and increase transparency, said Micky Tripathi, the national coordinator for health information technology at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. With the Cures Acts provision on releasing medical records, there was to be no more wondering, waiting or spending time trying to track down answers. We should be adopting modern internet conventions, Dr. Tripathi said, which includes making information accessible to consumers as soon as it is available.I think that is the normal internet expectation all of us have. Genevieve Morris, a senior director at the health technology company Change Healthcare who, in a previous role, helped draft the Cures Act, said she thought patients had become used to not having access to personal data. We now have to adjust to a world where we are going to have all of our data at our fingertips, she said. Many patients I spoke with appreciated having direct access to their health information. I feel more in control, said Yasi Noori-Bushehri, 32, an engineer in San Diego who has Graves disease, an autoimmune disorder that requires her to closely monitor her thyroid hormone levels. Having access to her medical information has given Ms. Noori-Bushehri confidence to ask for changes in her treatment plan: When her doctor suggested tweaking her thyroid medication, she pointed to previous lab reports suggesting that the change might throw her hormones out of whack. After talking it through, the doctor agreed. Some patients said receiving test results even difficult ones before speaking with their doctor had allowed them to feel more prepared when they did connect. You can go into the next appointment having done your homework, said Teresa Christopherson, 59, who regularly gets updates on the status of her breast cancer via an online portal. She said that gave her the opportunity to ask the right questions about next steps. Everyone has the right to their own medical information in real time, not on the doctors time, she said. Many doctors said they supported instant access, too, in most cases. If your cholesterol has gone up, that might not be good news, but its not the same as finding out that you have a lung nodule in a chest X-ray, Dr. Resneck said. RIO DE JANEIRO In the early morning hours on Monday, President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil went to bed vindicated. The nights election results had shown, just as he had claimed, that the polls had severely underestimated the strength of his right-wing movement. Hours later, he awoke to a new challenge: How to obtain millions more votes in just four weeks? On Oct. 30, Mr. Bolsonaro will face a leftist challenger, the former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in a runoff election to lead Latin Americas largest nation. Now the contest a matchup between Brazils two biggest political heavyweights could swing either way and promises to prolong what has already been a bruising battle that has polarized the nation and tested the strength of its democracy. Lula is still the favorite, but you can totally imagine this becoming a Bolsonaro victory, said Oliver Stuenkel, a Brazilian political scientist. If you add up all the numbers of the third-party candidates, there are sufficient votes out there. PARIS Frances justice minister was ordered on Monday to stand trial in a conflict-of-interest case, a first for a sitting justice minister and a potential embarrassment for President Emmanuel Macron, who rose to power on a promise to tighten ethical standards in French politics. A former star criminal lawyer, Eric Dupond-Moretti was named justice minister in July 2020. Only weeks after his appointment, he opened investigations of judges with whom he had clashed as a lawyer, prompting accusations that he had abused his position to settle scores. The offense Mr. Dupond-Moretti is accused of is punishable by five years imprisonment and a fine of half a million euros, or about $490,000. Mr. Dupond-Morettis lawyers said on Monday that they had lodged an appeal to block the trial from taking place. Christophe Ingrain, one of the lawyers, said there was no reason for him to resign from his position as minister, portraying the trial as an attack from a judiciary with whom Mr. Dupond-Moretti has long had notoriously difficult relations. Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, broke his silence Monday on the protests that have engulfed the country, accusing Israel and the United States of fomenting them and expressing his support for the security services that have cracked down on the unrest. Mr. Khamenei, speaking at a graduation ceremony at a police training school and cited by Iranian media, said it was the duty of the security forces to ensure the safety of the Iranian nation, referring to the protests that are now in their third week. The unrest erupted last month after a 22-year-old woman, Mahsa Amini, died in the custody of the morality police in Tehran after being accused of violating the countrys law mandating head scarves for adult women. Mr. Khamenei said he was heartbroken over the death of Ms. Amini, but he condemned the protesters, accusing them of arson and other attacks around the country. This rioting was planned, he said. 2008-2022 One News Page Ltd. All rights reserved. One News is a registered trademark of One News Page Ltd. The Ambassador Bridge, which links Windsor, Ont. to Detrot, will reopen shortly after police closed it Sunday evening, saying they were investigating a suspicious package. The Vietnam Syndrome was a term deployed after the U.S. defeat in the Vietnam War to explain and complain about the reluctance of.. Eurasia Review 01 Oct 2022 Hungary's parliament approved two anti-corruption reforms to unlock funding from the European Union. The EU has long-expressed rule of law and graft concerns about the illiberal government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Rumble 13 Sep 2022 God gave the land of Israel to Abraham, Issac and Jacob but they rebelled against God so He made them walk around the desert for 40.. BBC Africa Eye goes on a journey with a woman in Kenya, searching for the father she has never known. Eurasia Review 08 Oct 2022 By Hari Seshasayee If most analyses of Brazils recently-held elections are to be believed, there seem to be two.. Brazil's presidential race is set for a second round on October 30, as far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro and leftist former President Lula da Silva did not secure the votes necessary to claim an outright victory. Kwasi Kwarteng is expected to make a statement on scrapping the 45p rate of income tax in the next hour, 10 days after it was announced. Supporters who displayed Nazi symbols and salutes at the Australia Cup final "should be banned for life", a senior government official says. The Hungarian parliament approved an anti-corruption law to unlock funding from the European Union. The EU has long-expressed rule of law and graft concerns about the illiberal government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The European Union has summoned the top Russian diplomat to the bloc over Moscow's attempt to annex parts of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Kyiv has made major gains in the southern part of the country. Follow DW for more. Ukrainian troops recaptured villages along the west bank of the Dnipro River in southern Ukraine on Monday in a major new breakthrough, opening a second big front that is forcing Moscow to abandon ground just days after claiming to annex it. The European Commission has approved Berlin's plans to subsidize BASF efforts to produce green hydrogen in Ludwigshafen. The chemical industry uses hydrogen in bulk, but it's expensive and carbon-intensive at present. Ukraine's Air Force shot down five out of seven Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones that had been used to attack the Mykolaiv region. A community project that provides farmers with healthy potato seeds, cultivated using innovative laboratory techniques is significantly increasing yields in Kenya, an agricultural expert says. Kenyas average potato yield per hectare is around ten tonnes but has the potential to increase to three times that amount with the... Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid confirmed Sunday that Tel Aviv had received a US proposal for maritime border demarcation with Lebanon, Anadolu Agency reported. Lapid said on Twitter that his government was reviewing the final details of the proposed deal. He, however, said that its early to celebrate reaching a... A top Iranian official has urged security forces to deal with protesters harshly as videos emerged of people running down a street while gunfire rang out. A crowdfunding campaign in the Czech Republic has raised more than 33 million crowns (1.1m) to buy a modernised Soviet-era T-72 tank that will be sent to the Ukrainian army to help it fight Russia's invasion. Ukrainian forces have broken through Russian defences in the strategic southern Kherson region, an achievement that delivers a sharp blow to one of the four areas in Ukraine that Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed last week.Russia's... Photo: (Photo : Surprising_Shots) Parents can now instantly share almost everything on social media. However, some parents hesitate to share their children's faces on social media as they think sharing too much information can be dangerous. Parents want to protect their children from the online world for as long as they can, per Baby Gaga. Not only ordinary parents can experience these thoughts but also celebrities like Kristen Bell. She uses emojis to cover her children's faces in the photo she shares on social media for the same reason. She wants her kids to make their own choices as much as possible. The "The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window" star said that she chose a career in the public eye; she decided to have her picture taken but doesn't know if her children want that set up as well, and she doesn't have the right to choose for them. The children's rights advocates also urge parents to think twice before sharing any information about their kids, especially their photos. There could be a conflict between the kids' right to privacy and their parents' right to posts. However, experts suggest asking the child whether they want their photos to be shared on the internet or not, as it lets them have the necessary feeling of respect and parental support. It also helps children to develop their private and public identities. Read Also: Parental Influence: Children Ends up Choosing Careers That Parents Wanted Posting any kid's information, including photos, invades their privacy Some moms and dads prefer to hide kids' faces because they never know who will look at the children's photos and how other people can use such information. Although parents don't have bad intentions while sharing photos, some people may use them and share them with others in a way parents would never even think of. As a parent, you want to ensure your kid's safety as much as possible, as social media can also be a platform for others to spread hate and bullying. Thus, parents must not provide any sensitive information that could be the reason for the child becoming a target of any harassment and bullying on social media. Parents should be able to identify possible instances of potential bullying. Dr. Kirsty Goodwin revealed that 50 percent of images shared on pedophile sites had been taken from parents' social media sites. When parents share photos of kids on social media, it falls under the Psychological Risk category, breaching privacy and sharing embarrassing information that may appear misappropriated to others. Also, it falls under Privacy Risks which mainly concerns identity theft, per Sitters. Keeping your kid's photo secured At the end of the day, sharing kids' photos is a divisive issue. Therefore, as a parent, you need to choose what you believe is right for your family and bear in mind to put the proper privacy and permissions in place if you share. Very Well Family suggests also telling your family members and friends that you don't want your kid's photo to be shared, so they will also avoid sharing your child's photo and the information in it. Related Article: Helpful Parenting Tips Applicable for Dads: Children Needs a Perspective Only Dads Can Offer Photo: (Photo : Getty Images/Adam Rountree) She may be Carrie Bradshaw, the last single girl in New York City on her HBO hit series "Sex and the City," but the woman who breathes Bradshaw into life has been happily married for 25 years. Sarah Jessica Parker and her husband Matthew Broderick tied the knot in 1997. In a People interview, she depicted marriage as a "dazzling organism," with a lot of vitality if one is fortunate. And how fortunate this couple is to reach 25 years of marriage and counting. In their 25 years of marriage, they are parents to son James Wilkie, 19, and twin daughters Tabitha Hodge and Marion Loretta Elwell, 13. Parker described her children as curious people, and as parents, they are proud of them because they can openly talk to them. She said they can't always be there beside them and do drop-off and pick-up, yet their children can converse with them about anything and everything under the sun. Parker on parenting In her Instagram account, the "And Just Like That" actress shared that she and her husband now have a college freshman and two 7th graders. She said that the house is different now, as well as the family. The children need them more, and yet far less. But one thing is sure; she is "exhilarated by the possibilities" that await her children. In a 2008 interview with Parade, Parker talked about her kind of parenting style and raising her then-only child, James. "I think that if I had been raised a child of privilege, I wouldn't be the working person I am today. I have a great appreciation for work," said Parker. She added she believes it is hers and Broderick's obligation "to show James Wilkie by example what it means to owe your community something and that he is not entitled to the benefits of our hard work." She and Broderick are so down to earth that James' wardrobe when he was little consisted only of "hand me downs." Carrie Bradshaw would never approve, right? According to the actress, she never can recall a time she bought new clothes for James, except for maybe a winter coat and shoes, because her mother saved all her brother's clothes and she had all these older nephews that brought hand-me-down clothes for James as well. However, it's a different kind of parenting when it comes to their twins, who they had through a surrogate, basically because these are girls, and they have a lot of things in common and love. One of these is, of course, fashion. She recalled the moment when she showed her daughters her Vogue cover, and both hands went into their mouths, shocked that their mother was on the cover of Vogue. Parker said that she was unaware that they already knew what Vogue was, so seeing her two daughters proud of their mother being on the cover of the number one fashion magazine in the world made it a very touching moment. Even Bradshaw will be touched. Read Also: Zoe Saldana Reveals Her Best Anti-aging Secret; Her Kids Let Her Go To Bed Early Bonding with the twins in Hocus Pocus 2 premiere Another thing she loves about her twins is that they admire her in the movie "Hocus Pocus." Her daughters watched the first Hocus Pocus three years ago and were just in awe of her. Thus, when they found out that she would be filming for a sequel, they were so delighted. Fast forward to the sequel's premiere Tuesday night, the twins made sure to be beside mommy to celebrate her, ABC News reported. Broderick came along with the gang as well. "Hocus Pocus 2" had Parker reprise her character Sarah Sanderson alongside her witch sisters Winifred "Winnie" Sanderson, played by Bette Midler, and Mary Sanderson, played by Kathy Najimy. The trio reunited for the sequel, which comes out on Disney Plus this Friday, nearly 30 years after the first film. Related Article: Jennifer Lawrence Reveals She Had 2 Miscarriages and Went Through the First Baby Loss Alone Photo: (Photo : Gerd Altmann) Nearly two-thirds of 8-12-year-olds confess they would not tell their parents they are being cyberbullied, while more than half admit they have been victims of cyberbullies at least once, according to Irish Examiner. The Barnardos children charity surveyed 272 children, and the findings determined to reinforce the need for online safety to be taught in schools as the survey discovered that 62 percent of 8-12-year-olds said they had witnessed others being cyberbullied, while 60 percent admit they don't know how to start or have such conversation with their parents. The Barnardos organization stated that the findings were very concerning and emphasized the need for the continued rollout countrywide of its ongoing online safety workshops, in collaboration with Google.org, and most importantly, for the online safety learning of the children as it eventually becomes part of the school curriculum. The charity also added that since the pandemic, the return to face-to-face learning, schools have reported increasing cyberbullying among students. Those children who were cyberbullied stated that it took the form of mean comments, photos, and videos of them posted online. Nearly half admitted that someone had made a false report about them in an online game. Forty percent admitted that someone talked behind their back in a separate group chat that they soon found out. Lastly, over half said they had experienced such bullying as someone had excluded them from group chats or online games. Read Also: Why Does Father-Son Relationship Matter and How To Strengthen the Bond Between Them How cyberbullying affects the child's well-being? Unlike traditional bullying, which can normally be seen in school, cyberbullying can happen any time, day or night, and be perpetrated by anonymous sources. This often appears to be relentless and crueler. Any form of bullying can have physical and psychological effects on a child. Usually, they would experience fear, behavioral issues, academic struggles, and depression. However, cyberbullying may be specifically damaging. While it can happen in a public digital space, such as social media posts, it can also occur in private messages and targeting them privately. The effects of it alone can truly harm a child. Cyberbullying is a powerful stressor in children's lives. At least 32 percent of kids who are targets of cyberbullying report experiencing at least one symptom of stress. Furthermore, aside from feeling distressed, they may also feel fear for their life and blame themselves for the bullying that happened. The damaging messages and hate they receive can be shared with multitudes of people; thus, the sheer volume of individuals that know about the bullying can eventually lead to intense feelings of humiliation. This can make kids feel isolated, resulting in being alone and not having friends, leading to more bullying, per Very Well Family. What can parents do about it? If your child is experiencing cyberbullying, do everything you can to end the torment. This may mean seeking help from school officials and reporting the incident to social media companies and even the police. Also, try to become familiar with cyberbullying laws, as bullying is not a joke. Kid's Health suggests keeping screenshots of damaging and threatening messages, photos, and texts, as these can be used as proof with the bully's parents, school, and the police. While doing so, make sure to offer comfort and support and remind them that what happened to them was not their fault. Related Article: Bullying: A Menace That Haunts The Mind Of Every Child And Parent Photo: (Photo : Chip Somodevilla) Court documents show that the Biden Administration is now asking parents, who got separated from their children at the United States-Mexico Border, to undergo another round of psychological evaluations to determine how traumatized they were by the Trump-era policy, per NBC News. It comes in a lawsuit filed by migrants pursuing compensation from the government after thousands of kids were taken from parents in a policy maligned as inhumane by political and religious leaders worldwide. The settlement talks with the attorneys and the government occurred late last year. The Justice Department attorney also reserves the right, if necessary, to have a psychologist examine the separated kids. The evaluations appear to be systematic in emotional-damages claims; hence, these cases are unusual as the government's role in traumatizing parents and children by the separations has all been well documented. Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the American Civil Liberties Union Immigrants' Rights Project and a lawyer for plaintiffs in the effort to compensate migrants, said that President Joe Biden acknowledged the Trump family separations as criminal and a moral stain on the nation, adding that the former president hired doctors to make claims that the families involved in the issue didn't suffer all that much. Read Also: Three Children Kidnapped After Their Dad Pulled Over to Help a Car Crash Victim The families involved claimed sustained permanent injuries The requests came in two cases in which 11 families filed. Almost two dozen similar cases are pending in other courts, while some have already submitted to government-requested psychiatric evaluations. The parents sat for hours-long depositions in which they recollected what happened in detail. The physicians for human rights, a nonprofit collective of doctors that works to document human rights violations, examined the patients and determined that they exhibited suicidal thoughts and sustained a raft of problems such as nightmares, depression, anxiety, panic, worry, and difficulty sleeping. The government investigators said that the kids separated from their parents showed more fear, feelings of abandonment, and post-traumatic stress symptoms than those who were not taken away. Some kids believed their parents had abandoned them entirely or had been murdered. According to a 2019 report from the inspector general's office in the Department of Health and Human Services, some kids experienced mental trauma that caused physical symptoms such as chest or heart pain, per AP News. The government attorney claimed that the families involved sustained mental and emotional injuries that will never be fully healed as they will remain permanent in their lives. Biden claimed they deserve some form of compensation According to the court documents, Justice Department stated that parents have already undergone different and multiple health evaluations and added that an adult psychology expert found it was essential to get another opinion. Federal attorneys pointed out a similar southern Florida case where the father and child agreed to the same examination and said it's well within what's considered appropriate, noting that it is a standard practice for plaintiffs alleging serious emotional injury to be examined by the opposing party's expert. The examination would take around eight hours, four hours for clinical interviews, and another four hours of emotional and trauma testing. The two opposing sides had been negotiating a settlement, but Biden firmly stated that families of separated children deserve some form of compensation. The early proposal of $450,000 per individual was criticized by Republicans, and when Biden was asked by ABC News regarding the proposed figure, he said: "That's not going to happen." Related Article: What to Do When You're a Parent Who Has Constant Suicide Thoughts Photo: (Photo : Getty Images/Jason Meritt) Kate Hudson admitted that she misses her oldest child as he was away for his first year of college. At a recent guesting with Access Hollywood, Kate Hudson shared how she's been feeling now that her 18-year-old son Ryder has left home for college and was honest to admit that she sometimes starts shedding tears, People reported. "It's hard to even talk about. I'll have a moment where I'll just start crying because something will just hit me that he's not here. But he's having a blast; he's in the city, he's like ready. And that makes me so excited. I'm so excited for his future. When you see your kids thriving and feeling good in their skin that's all I can ask for," the 43-year-old "Bride Wars" star expressed. She recalled an emotional moment she had with Ryder in a recent phone conversation. She said she just suddenly wept, overwhelmed by the thought that her son was in such a good place right now where everything in front of him was possible like she was at age. Her youngest daughter witnessed that moment and called her tears "happy tears." Her parenting style Also the founder of Fabletics Activewear, Hudson is a mother to three children - Ryder, her eldest who she shares with ex-husband Chris Robinson; second son Bingham or Bing, 11, with ex-fiance Matt Bellamy; and daughter and youngest Rani Rose, turning four next month, with fiance Danny Fujikawa. If she misses Ryder, she would not have a chance to miss the youngest as they were always together. According to Hello Magazine, Rani Rose loves to tag along with her mother in everything she does. And, by everything also means tagging along in a party. Hudson narrated in her Instagram story how little Rani would not want to go to sleep and allow her mother to go off to a party. The actress then had no choice and let Rani go with her to an adult party featuring jewelry. When they got home, and it was time for bedtime, Rani "wailed" that she did not want to ever miss a party. Hudson detailed her parenting approach, writing that she validated and affirmed her youngest daughter's feelings because she deeply understands her. She confessed that a family that parties together will keep on partying together. But, she also admitted that there was nervousness thinking of what her daughter's teenage years might be like. Read Also: Kate Hudson Believes She Is a Strict Mom On co-parenting While the actress has a close relationship with her children, she grew up not knowing her father, musician and actor Bill Hudson. She and her brother were raised by their mother, Goldie Hawn, and longtime partner Kurt Rusell. Yet, despite this, she has a great family, a beautiful mother, and an amazing stepfather who stepped in and played a huge part for them to feel what it is to have a "dependable father figure" in their lives. This, though, did not remove the fact that they did not know their dad, she told Today. And with this, she has learned the importance of co-parenting, of having her children know their fathers, even if they each have different ones. Related Article: Kate Hudson Reveals Goldie Hawn and Kurt Rusell's Secret to Having a Happy Family Earlier today, the 85-year-old Pope met Tim Cook, the chief executive officer of Apple who is currently on a European business trip with some of his executive team. The Vatican did not disclose what transpired during the one-to-one discussion between the Pope and the CEO of the $2.4 trillion tech behemoth, Reuters reported. The Vatican did not disclose what transpired during the one-to-one discussion between Pope Francis and Tim Cook, the CEO of the $2.4 trillion tech giant Apple. The Pope told young people back in 2019: "Free yourself from the addiction to mobile phones. When you become a slave to your mobile phone, you lose your freedom." While in Italy, Apple met with a series of individuals, companies and sites. Below Cook met with Gold Metal Paralympian Beatrice Vio and team on September 30th. (Click on image to Enlarge) The photos below are from Milan, Triennale Milano and the Apple Store team at Apple Piazza Liberty. Cook also with the team over at Bending Spoons and the administrators and teachers (and/or students) over at the Apple Developer Academy in Naples. For more Tweets and photos of Tim Cook's European business trip check out his Twitter site here. Dr Patrick Asuming, an Economist, has asked Ghanaians not to engage in unexpected cash withdrawals (panic withdrawals) as the Government prepares for debt restructuring. He also urged domestic investors to continue to repose confidence in the economy because the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan support for Ghanas homegrown economic programme would restore macroeconomic stability to make them thrive. Debt restructuring refers to a situation where someone who owes (in this case, the Government of Ghana) comes to the realization that they will not be able to pay the debt as originally agreed, therefore, negotiates with the lender for help. In such a situation, the debtor (the Government) negotiates with the lender (financial institutions) to either extend the time of payment or agree to reduce the amount that is supposed to be paid back by the lender (which is referred to as a haircut). Dr Asuming, who is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, told the Ghana News Agency that the Government would go for domestic debt restructuring as part of the negotiations for an IMF loan support programme. He said the Government would avoid external debt restructuring because it would affect the countrys reputation in the external capital market and its ability to quickly return to the market which is currently closed to Ghana. When you have a treasury, and you want to liquidate before the maturity, youre going to lose some money. But this should not be a situation where anyone would act in panic and say theyre going to take their money from any financial institution, Dr Asuming said. The Government is really between a rock and hard place, but its more likely to have a domestic debt restructuring. The Government has been borrowing a lot and our interest costs have been rising, with Treasury Bills at upwards of 30. Therefore, its expensive to pay the debt, he noted. The Senior Lecturer said the Government would have to negotiate with domestic financial institutions for either an extension to pay its debt or reduce the amount to pay back be it the principal or interest payment. He noted that: Whether the debt restructuring is going to be a delay in payment or reduction, its going to affect their (the banks) bottom line profit, and hamper domestic investors, the Economist said, but cautioned against panic withdrawals. He explained that it was important for the Government to put out information to avoid speculations and said: The Government must communicate and assure the citizens that people are not going to lose their money. The Economist said once the implementation of the IMF programme starts, times would be tough in Ghana with citizens having to endure some hardship for about three years. He said: An IMF programme would only help us restore macroeconomic stability. We must have a complete reset and change in mentality that we can depend on foreigners to finance our development. Ultimately, we must look to generate more domestic revenue and build a more financially sustainable public finance system that is rooted in a structurally more diverse economy. We must do more domestic production, he encouraged. At a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, the Finance Minister, said the Government was yet to conclude processes for debt restructuring with the IMF. He said, We simply have not reached any agreement with the Fund on the parameters of any debt operations as we are in the process of completing the debt sustainability analysis. The Minister noted that the Government was still working with the IMF Team to update the countrys medium-term macro-fiscal framework to inform the designing of the programme. Ghana is negotiating with the IMF for an expected $3 billion loan facility for its homegrown economic programme, which is to help the country navigate through the current economic hardship and improve its fiscal balances sustainably. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Kosmos Innovation Center Ghana, Glovo and Open Value Foundation are organizing an Impact Entrepreneurship Competition for innovative and successful Ghanaian-owned businesses making a positive impact on society, with a view to strengthening the impact ecosystem in the country and contributing to bridge the gap between impact and profit. The Impact Entrepreneurship Competition is designed for entrepreneurs and early-stage companies generating positive impact in Ghanas economic, social and/or environmental sectors, contributing to sustainable development in the country. Over 20,000USD in cash prizes and more than 5,000USD of in-kind prizes will be awarded to the selected entrepreneurs during the competition. The winner will receive a grant of 15,000USD powered by Open Value Foundation. 10,000USD will be awarded to a company working to improve the health and wellbeing of others, including businesses tackling environmental issues impacting peoples health by Anesvad Foundation. Additionally, based on the jurys criteria, any of the live-pitch participants will have the opportunity to receive a package of support including mentoring, investor-readiness advice, networks, and introductions to other sources of funding and opportunities to access products and/or services donated by partners and collaborators. To participate in the competition, the Ghana registered company must have raised less than USD250,000 in funding, have been in operations for 2 or more years, have a clear for-profit or sustainable business model with potential for scale and the ability to demonstrate positive social impact in Ghana (on rural, low-income, or disadvantaged communities). The Competition will be made up of 2 stages. The first stage will be through an online submission while the second stage will be a physical event where the top eight shortlisted businesses will pitch in person to a panel of judges and investors. The live pitch will be held on 4th November 2022 in Accra. All applications should be submitted to bit.ly/ImpactGhanaAwards or to kicghana.org on or before October 10th, 2022. All questions and enquiries should be directed to [email protected] or +233 0342295432. 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 The Chancellor of the Kumasi Technical University (KsTU), Dr Kwame Addo Kufuor, has entreated lecturers of the university to support artisans at the Suame industrial enclave to develop technologies to support the industrialisation of the country. In doing so, he asked them to drop their academic degrees and big vocabularies and come to the level of the artisans in order to get their collaboration. He said experience had shown that it was easier to get the collaboration of people when they had a sense of belonging, hence the need for the lecturers to rather make the approach. If you speak all the big English, there is no way they will be willing to collaborate. However, if you go to them speaking the local language and explain things to them, they will listen to appreciate what you are telling them, he said. This is because discussing mechanical problems in the local languages with the artisans will lead to finding solutions and enhancing performance. Dr Kufuor made the call during his investiture as the first Chancellor of KsTU in Kumasi last Friday (September 30). Ceremony First of its kind, the ceremony was quite a colourful one and attracted a host of dignitaries as well as the family of the chancellor. The dignitaries included the Guest of Honour, Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former president John Agyekum Kufuor, who is an elder brother of the Chancellor, former Speaker of Parliament, Prof Mike Oquaye, Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Sir Sam Jonah, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simeon Osei-Mensah, and Apagyahene Oheneba Owusu Afriyie IV, the family head of the new Chancellor. Also present were Mrs Addo Kufuor and their two sons, as well as some senior lecturers of the KsTU. Investment In his address, Vice-President Bawumia paid glowing tribute to the chancellor, who he said had paid his dues to the nation through his service in the public sector. The university could not have picked a worthier leader than you. Your worth of experience as Board Chairman of Suame Magazine Industrial Development Organisation (SMIDO) indicate your in-depth knowledge and already established interest in Vocational and Technical Education, he said. He said it was apt that the first chancellor of the university was a son of the land of Ashanti Kingdom who has been put in good stead to help propel the university onto greater heights to achieve world-class university status. Role Dr Kufuor said the call to be a Chancellor was an opportunity to help develop the young university students into world class talents in order to serve Ghana and raise the image of Africa on the world stage. He also acknowledged that his new role would require him to lead the university and provide the necessary support and assistance to the council, faculties and administration to transform KsTU to one of the topmost institutions for information and communication development and training in Ghana and beyond. I have confidence in the ability, creativity and ingenuity of the Ghanaian youth. It is my firm belief that with the right type of education and training, our young people can create and achieve whatever their counterparts have attained anywhere in the world, he said. Collaboration To achieve this, the KsTU Chancellor called for more collaboration among the academia, industry and agriculture to drive industry and practical work experience for students. He thus advised KsTU to reach out to share knowledge of mutual value with local senior institutions like the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and also other universities in the country. Such collaboration, he explained, would also ensure that graduating students come out of the university with considerable exposure to the workplace and the confidence to work in such an environment. Appreciation He was grateful to the university governing council for selecting him as a chancellor and pledged to bring his experience and expertise in academia and administration to bear during his reign. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The intended exercise to block all unregistered SIM cards effective Saturday, October 1, 2022, has been put on hold. This is to allow the Ministry of Communication and Digitalisation to examine the roadmap for the intended exercise. A reliable source close to the SIM registration process has told Graphic Online that a new date and the modalities will be communicated early next week but added that the punitive measures as seen earlier in September will be implemented again. The NCA, Friday morning, met with all telcos to finalise the modalities and they expressed their readiness to go ahead with the exercise to block the unregistered SIMs as per the expiration of the deadline Friday, September 30, 2022. Meanwhile, it said those who have done stage one (linked their Ghana Cards to their SIM cards via *404#) will have up to end of year [2022] to complete stage two of their registration. Again, those who have not registered their SIMs at all will be blocked from receiving calls, making calls, using data services, among other things. It said such subscribers will however have access to initiate *404# to start their registration, and also be able to receive their unique codes via SMS. It said for Telesol, Busy and Surfline which are grouped under Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) providers, subscribers started registration late so they will be given additional time to complete registration of their customers. It reiterated that the industry regulator has submitted its roadmap post deadline to the policy maker, the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, for a final greenlight to implement. Graphic Online can confirm that the sector Minister is currently leading a Ghana delegation to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) plenipotentiary conference in Bucharest, Romania where Ghana is seeking to retain her seat on the ITU Council. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Director of Communications at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), William Boateng says allegation that some workers have tampered with the companys system is untrue. Nonetheless, he says the allegation will not be ignored and that an internal investigation will soon commence to fish out offenders if any. He was responding to the deputy ranking member of the Communications Committee of Parliament, Samuel Nartey George's claim that the government must immediately institute a forensic investigation into the activities of some staff at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). According to the NDC lawmaker, some staff, particularly at the IT Department, are engaged in illicit moves, raking into their personal vaults GH200 million every month. But, William Boateng who said the allegation is untrue told NEAT FMs morning show, Ghana Montie, in an interview that anyone found guilty after their internal investigation, will be dealt with. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Dr. Mrs. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Breast Care International (BCI), has urged Ghanaians to shun misconstrued thoughts about breast cancer being spiritual and seek early care to save lives. She said higher cases of the deadly disease, which had no known causes, were being reported worldwide and explained that it is not only Ghanaian women who develop breast cancer so forget about peoples opinions and myths on it having spiritual links, the disease has no connection with spirituality. According to her, cancers were the number one killer disease among women, calling on the people to stop hiding in their rooms, wasting time at prayer camps and unapproved treatment centers to tackle breast cancer head-on. Every year more than 2000 Ghanaian women die from breast cancer out of the 4000 diagnosis. This represents close to 50 percent of women dying needlessly from this disease. She was speaking at the 10th Edition of BCI Ghana Walk for the Cure at Tepa in Ahafo-Ano North Municipal Municipality. This years walk through the principal streets of Tepa attracted thousands of prominent personalities, students, and other individuals. It was themed Breast Cancer Wont Rest, So Why Should We. Dr. Wiafe Addai, who is also the CEO of Peace and Love Hospitals indicated that breast cancer does not stay in the breast alone, it spreads to other organs including lungs, brain, liver, and bone if not treated early, adding that the best thing to do was to adopt secondary prevention - early detection and prompt action. The deadly nature of breast cancers was why the BCI and the Peace and Love Hospitals have waged a war against the ailment in Ghana and the African sub-region. She appealed for support from stakeholders to create awareness and education to conquer as well as reduce the number of people dying from the curable disease. Nana Adusei Atwenewaa Ampem I, Tepamanhene, who hosted the programme said the health of the people was paramount and issues of breast cancer should be taken seriously, citing the devastating consequences of the disease. He said the government should have further discourse and roll out programmes to assist the BCI in reducing breast cancer deaths. The Tepamanhene pledged to allocate land for BCI to build a breast care facility in the area to help women seek early treatment and promote their well-being. Madam Martina Appiah-Nyantakyi, Municipal Chief Executive, Ahafo-Ano North, reiterated that the consequences of the disease were dire, and called for women to seek early treatment to save lives. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Smiles were put on the faces of about 18 maternal mothers and their babies of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, NICU, of the Eastern Regional Hospital, Koforidua who have no money to foot their medical bills after service delivery. This became a big challenge to them as they had no money hope on how to settle their bills. But through the kabaka foundation, they've been rescued from their debts and now been discharged. Many other Maternal Mothers and their babies also recieved supports as well when the CEO of the Kabaka Foundation, a charity organization, Nana Owiredu Wadie settled their bills and also distributed items to them to commemorate his birthday. He settled the debt of 17 thousand Ghana cedis of some 17 mothers and their babies who have been discharged but are unable to fully settle their hospital bills. The Kabaka Foundation is a charitable organization that believes in spreading the love of God by putting smiles on the faces of the needy and the underprivileged in the society through impactful social interventions and projects focused on orphans, nursing mothers, street children, the sick and vulnerable in society. For the past six years, the Kabaka Foundation has been extending a helping hand to the Eastern Regional Hospital in Koforidua. Currently, the foundation is single handedly constructing a one-storey ultra-modern Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, NICU, at a cost of GHc 1.9 million for the hospital which is about 60 percent completed. For his birthday this year which falls on September, Nana Owiredu Wadie who is also the Nkosuohene of Kwahu- Nkwatia through his foundation donated some items to the maternity mothers and babies of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, NICU, of the Hospital. The items included diapers, baby wipes, toilet papers, cartons of milo and milk, bottled water and drinks. The foundation as well donated two table-top refrigerators and two microwave ovens to be used by patients who will be admitted at the special wards of the unit which was renovated and expanded by the Kabaka foundation last year and was adopted and named Yaa Boatemaa Special Wards after the mother of Nana Owiredu Wadie. Dr Arko Akoto-Ampaw is the Medical Director of the Hospital also commended Nana Owiredu Wadie the Nkosuohene of Kwahu- Nkwatia for the gusture always and wished him well. He also thanked him for the ongoing project which Nana Owiredu Wadie is putting up to ease the burden and the pressure at the NICU and pray it come to pass. Madam Yaa Ansaa a mother of Two, and of Koforidua who initiated this annual support for underprivileged mothers and Babies at the hospital on behalf of the beneficiary mothers also commended the foundation for their support that have made significant impact on the lives of maternal mothers after delivery. She said this has led to the discharge of many mothers who used to be detained in the facility after service reduced drastically and pray that Nana Owiredu Wadie will continue to support maternal mothers to be relieved after delivery. Called on all and sundry to pray for Nana Owiredu Wadie. Source: Michael Akrofi 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 Ghana has been re-elected to the Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for the 2023 to 2026 term. The elections for the Council membership were held Monday, October 3, 2022, at the ongoing ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2022 in Bucharest, Romania. The ITU Council acts as the Unions governing body in the interval between Plenipotentiary Conferences, held every four years. Its role is to consider broad telecommunication policy issues to ensure that the Union's activities, policies and strategies fully respond to today's dynamic, rapidly changing telecommunications environment. The Council is also responsible for ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the Union, coordinating work programmes, approving budgets, controlling finances and expenditures. Ghana has been serving as a member of the Executive Council since 2002 and has also played various leadership roles in Study Groups as well as actively taking part in other ITU activities. According to the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, who led Ghanas electoral campaign, the Republic of Ghana will keep up with her sterling contribution to the ITU Council while ensuring that it carries its service to the telecommunication world in a resourceful, transparent and forward-looking manner. The Hon. Minister reiterated Governments commitment to ensuring that its citizens across the country get connected. She explained that Government has already done a lot through initiatives such as the innovative Rural Telephony project and Sectoral Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTS) to secure our cyberspace amongst others. Ghana secured 145 votes and ranked 2nd among the 13 countries elected to the Council from Region D (Africa). This is the highest number of votes that Ghana has secured at an ITU Council election. Each of ITU's five administrative regions is entitled to a specific number of Council seats. In total, forty-eight (48) ITU Member States were elected to the Council. ITU Radio Regulations Board (RRB) In a related development, Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, the Acting Director of Engineering at the National Communications Authority (NCA) was elected to ITUs Radio Regulations Board (RRB) for the 2023-2026 term. Rev. Ing. Fianko is one of the three RRB members representing Africa on the twelve-member Board with the responsibility to approve the Rules of Procedure for the application of the Radio and Regulations and to adjudicate on matters brought before the Board. Rev. Ing. Fianko is an electronic communications engineer with in-depth experience in radio frequency spectrum management, telecom and broadcasting regulation as well as policy formulation at the national, regional and international levels. Ghana has been re-elected to the Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for the 2023 to 2026 term. The elections for the Council membership were held Monday, October 3, 2022, at the ongoing ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2022 in Bucharest, Romania. The ITU Council acts as the Unions governing body in the interval between Plenipotentiary Conferences, held every four years. Its role is to consider broad telecommunication policy issues to ensure that the Union's activities, policies and strategies fully respond to today's dynamic, rapidly changing telecommunications environment. The Council is also responsible for ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the Union, coordinating work programmes, approving budgets, controlling finances and expenditure. Ghana has been serving as a member of the Executive Council since 2002 and has also played various leadership roles in Study Groups as well as actively taking part in other ITU activities. According to the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, who led Ghanas electoral campaign, the Republic of Ghana will keep up with her sterling contribution to the ITU Council while ensuring that it carries its service to the telecommunication world in a resourceful, transparent and forward-looking manner. The Hon. Minister reiterated Governments commitment to ensuring that its citizens across the country get connected. She explained that Government has already done a lot through initiatives such as the innovative Rural Telephony project and Sectoral Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTS) to secure our cyber space amongst others. Ghana secured 145 votes and ranked 2nd among the 13 countries elected to the Council from Region D (Africa). This is the highest number of votes that Ghana has secured at an ITU Council election. Each of ITU's five administrative regions is entitled to a specific number of Council seats. In total, forty-eight (48) ITU Member States were elected to the Council. ITU Radio Regulations Board (RRB) In a related development, Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, the Acting Director of Engineering at the National Communications Authority (NCA) was elected to ITUs Radio Regulations Board (RRB) for the 2023-2026 term. Rev. Ing. Fianko is one of the three RRB members representing Africa on the twelve-member Board with the responsibility to approve the Rules of Procedure for the application of the Radio and Regulations and to adjudicate on matters brought before the Board. Rev. Ing. Fianko is an electronic communications engineer with in-depth experience in radio frequency spectrum management, telecom and broadcasting regulation as well as policy formulation at the national, regional and international levels. About RRB The twelve members of the Radio Regulations Board (RRB) are elected at the Plenipotentiary Conference. They perform their duties independently and on a part-time basis, normally meeting up to four times a year, in Geneva. The Board approves Rules of Procedure, used by the Radio communication Bureau in applying the provisions of the Radio Regulations and registering frequency assignments made by the Member States. About ITU The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies ICTs. Founded in 1865 to facilitate international connectivity in communications networks, the ITU allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develop the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and strive to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide. Every time you make a phone call via mobile, access the Internet or send an email, you are benefitting from the work of ITU. ITU is committed to connecting the entire world's people wherever they live and whatever their means. The twelve members of the Radio Regulations Board (RRB) are elected at the Plenipotentiary Conference. They perform their duties independently and on a part-time basis, normally meeting up to four times a year, in Geneva. The Board approves Rules of Procedure, used by the Radio communication Bureau in applying the provisions of the Radio Regulations and registering frequency assignments made by the Member States. About ITU The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies ICTs. Founded in 1865 to facilitate international connectivity in communications networks, the ITU allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develop the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and strive to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide. Every time you make a phone call via the mobile, access the Internet or send an email, you are benefitting from the work of ITU. ITU is committed to connecting the entire world's people wherever they live and whatever their means. 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 There are multiple reports of massive gunfire in the capital of Burkina Faso, where a coup is reportedly underway. The national broadcaster, Radio and TV, has gone off since the wee hours of today, Friday, September 30, 2022. Reports indicate that there was a heavy gunfight overnight. The Reuters news agency reports that the gunfire is coming from the main army camp and some residential areas in the capital. Multiple tweets indicate that there is a heavy army presence, and some roads have been blocked. The current military junta headed by Col. Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba deposed the democratically elected government of Christian Marc Kabore in January, citing the failure of the government to curb rising insecurity. Since taking over, however, the security situation in the country has continued to deteriorate with attacks on military personnel and formations. The most recent incident led to the death of 11 soldiers with about 50 civilians missing in what is suspected to be a terrorist attack. A BBC report said twenty-eight other people, including 20 soldiers, were wounded in the Monday attack, and a search for the missing people is ongoing. The vehicles, which were escorted by a military patrol, had been taking supplies to residents in the north of the country, it added. Junta leader speaks at UN General Assembly The junta leader, while addressing the just ended 77th United Nations General Assembly, defended the January 24 overthrow of the democratically elected president, describing it as necessary and indispensable. It was, above all, an issue of survival for our nation, he said. Thats even if it was perhaps reprehensible in terms of the principles held dear by the United Nations and the international community as a whole. On the issue of terrorist threat across the region, he emphasized: No precautions or prevention measures will prevent terrorism from crossing the Atlantic if the Sahel is abandoned. Nothing at all will be able to stop the youth in the Sahel countries and its surroundings from giving in to the temptation of perilous immigration to Europe through the Sahara and the Mediterranean if these youth no longer have any hope by staying at home. 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 Veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie and his wife, Josephine, have celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. The event to mark the 53rd anniversary took place at the Base Landmark Event Centre, Enugu on Saturday, October 1, 2022. The event was graced by Enugu State Goverenor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, and other dignitaries. Taking to his official Instagram account, the legendary actor thanked his children for giving them the biggest party of their lifetime. "53 years of Marital Bliss with my Queen, Chief Barrister Mrs Josephine Edochie. Thanks to my Children for hosting us to the biggest party of our lifetime, yes Our LIFE because we are ONE," he wrote. "In celebration of our 53yrs of marriage and Life in Goodness and in Good Health. These past 53yrs, God blessed us with six biological children (among all the inherited ones and numerous grand-children) 5 gentlemen and a beautiful adorable lady, Leo; Adam; Linc; Jean; Yul; Eva, respectively. Thank you all for celebrating with us. Daalu nu" Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The newest member of the British Columbia legislature, Elenore Sturko (right), elected last month in Surrey South byelection, is sworn in by clerk Kate Ryan-Lord at the legislature in Victoria, Monday, Oct.3, 2022. The clerk says Sturko is the first politician pledging allegiance to King Charles. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Dirk Meissner Members of the Iranian community and their supporters rally in solidarity with protesters in Iran, after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in police custody for allegedly improperly wearing a hijab, in Ottawa on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2022. Canada has sanctioned 25 senior Iranian officials and nine entities. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly will also bar nine entities from doing business with Canadians.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang Trial for Man Accused of Killing Poker Player Susie Zhao Begins Tomorrow October 02, 2022 Connor Richards Editor & Live Reporter U.S. Warning: The following article contains graphic details involving murder and sexual assault. After a series of legal and COVID-19 pandemic-related delays spanning more than a year, the trial of accused Susie Zhao murderer Jeffery Bernard Morris will finally get underway this week. The trial, set to begin on Monday, Oct. 3, comes more than two years after the body of 33-year-old Zhao, a poker player and regular in the Los Angeles cash game scene, was discovered burned and partially mutilated in White Lake, Michigan in July 2020. Morris, who was arrested in the weeks after police discovered Zhao's body, faces two felony murder charges in Michigans Oakland County Circuit Court, including one that prosecutors later tacked on as details emerged in the gruesome case. A Trial At Last On July 13, 2020, Zhao's body was discovered in a state recreation area in White Lake. An autopsy revealed that Zhao, who had recently moved back to Michigan from LA to live with family, had been burned alive and sexually assaulted. Police arrested Morris in the following weeks, who prosecutors allege met Zhao at Sherwood Motel and bound her with zip ties and "lit (her) on fire until she died." Susie Zhao Morris, who has a violent criminal history dating back to the 1980s, was initially scheduled to stand trial in March 2021, but that date was pushed back to September 2021 in what would be the first of many delays in the case due to COVID-19 restrictions, a filing error and a change in Morris' counsel. PokerNews reported in February that the trial would be getting underway on Sept. 26 with defense attorney Michael McCarthy acting as Morris' counsel. Court records show the date was later pushed back to Oct. 3 after a one-week adjournment and now the trial is set to start tomorrow under presiding Judge Martha Anderson, meaning Zhao's family and the poker community may finally get long-awaited answers and justice for the horrific murder. Pretrial Proceedings Underway There have been a handful of pretrial proceedings in the month leading up to the trial, including jury selection and requests by local TV stations to cover the trial. Additionally, prosecutors filed a motion to introduce "evidence of all (Morris') internet searches and web histories" between June 20, 2020 and July 31, 2020. Judge Anderson granted the motion but with the caveat that prosecutors may not introduce as evidence any photographs or videos that result from those web searches. A motion for prosecutors to introduce evidence in the Jeffrey Morris trial With such proceedings wrapping up, all is set for the trial to get underway on Oct. 3. The trial will be streamed and accessible through Michigan's Virtual Courtroom Directory. Justice for "Susie Q" Zhao immigrated to the US from China as a child and grew up in Michigan before studying psychology and business at Northwestern University. Zhao, nicknamed "Susie Q," later moved to LA and became a regular player and commentator on the Live at the Bike stream at the Bicycle Casino. She also made a name for herself with a series of deep runs in the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, including a 90th-place finish in the 2012 Main Event for $73,805. "Susie Q" was a beloved member of the poker community who had lasting friendships with players including Brandon Shack-Harris, Allen Kessler, Xuan Liu, Ronnie Bardah and Clayton Fletcher, who played with Zhao in the 2015 Main Event and described her as "one of the bubbliest and most vivacious opponents Ive ever had." @RonnieBardah What the fuckkkkkk!?!?! Had NFI until I saw this. Tons of great experiences playing and talking with https://t.co/Vt540M3d9g Brandon Shack-Harris (@Oscillator_WSOP) PokerNews will be covering the Jeffrey Morris trial in the Susie Zhao murder case as it gets underway next week. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Alabama GOP Chairman John Wahl has been caught using an illegal ID to vote in multiple elections. The Chairman Of The Alabama Republican Party Violated The States Voter ID Law al.com reported: The badge said Wahl was a media representative for State Auditor Jim Zeigler. But when I asked the Alabama Department of Finance, which administers employee IDs, that department said it had never issued him one, nor was Wahl on the list of employees, past and present, in Zeiglers office. As it turns out, Wahl made the ID, he says, with Zeiglers permission. And now, the states top election official, Secretary of State John Merrill, says that badge is not a valid voter ID. It does not meet the standard of any voter ID requirements listed under 17-9-30, Merrill said, citing where Alabamas voter ID law appears in the State Code. The State Republican Chair Voted Illegally Republicans constantly claim that Democrats are cheating in elections, but the GOP continues to violate the election laws that they champion. The situation in Alabama involves an elected official and the party chair of the GOP in the state. Wahl illegally voted in multiple elections. If Alabama is serious about election integrity and enforcing its lawyers, the state needs to investigate and potentially prosecute the GOP chair. What Wahl did was arrogant and illegal. Voter ID laws require everyone to follow them, even those who feel that they are above the law. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Republicans dont have a lot of policy ideas for when they are in power, never mind when they are out of power, at least in the White House. Whenever a Democrat is president, Republican policy is to obstruct bills and investigate to find damaging facts on any Democrat, especially the president. This, of course, makes the Lock her up! crowd very happy. But it doesnt make a majority of Americans happy. This reality is especially true when Republicans fixate on impeachment when its utterly obvious that they dont even have a crime to prosecute. It is pure payback. Joe Scarborough noted that hes hearing talk of impeachment from Republicans on the stump, and it could come back to haunt them in the midterm. This morning Joe Scarborough said: (VIDEO BELOW) I couldnt agree more. I havent really thought about it that much; looking forward to Republicans getting in there and impeaching Joe Biden. They talked about it. We had just said earlier in the show there are only two examples of the party out of power blowing it in midterm elections. One was after Sept. 11, where Republicans did much, much better than anybody expected, beat all the historical trends The other, though, when I was there in 1998, during impeachment, Republicans were sure they going to do extraordinarily well. It blew up politically in their face, and Democrats and Bill Clinton did much better. We expected this to push Bill Clinton to the side. In the end, it cost Newt Gingrich his job. So impeachment, for the most part, makes the party base feel great. It is a political loser. Yes. Joe Scarborough is thinking about moderate women in Georgia who, under the right circumstances, might vote Republican but are turned off by the fact that Republicans wont help get a national law protecting abortion (the opposite, actually). The same could be said for Arizona, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and even Florida. They, along with many sensible men, dont want to hear about a plan to give the administration a colonoscopy as payback for the investigations into Trump, which is all they would be. The MAGAs expect that payback, indeed, demands it. Most Americans know its all just smoke and mirrors. They have nothing else. The more they pump full-blown impeachment hearings, the more they hurt themselves in the run-up to the mid-terms. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print It is a maxim to remember. The GOP will vote against the needs of their constituents if it means that it will also help Joe Biden look effective. Matt Gaetz and other Florida politicians (All Republicans) voted against a bill that included FEMA aid, one that was part of a continuing resolution to keep the government open and provide relief to Ukraine. From The Hill: Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) says he wants Congress to approve additional funds to help his state recover from Hurricane Ian after voting against a government funding measure last week that freed up $18.8 billion in federal disaster aid. Gaetz joined 15 other Florida lawmakers in voting against the continuing resolution, which allows the government to remain funded at the current spending levels through mid-December and includes a new round of funding for Ukraine, as well as for disaster aid. And Gaetz tweeted: Dear Congress: On behalf of my fellow Florida Man in grave need of assistance. Just send us like half of what you sent Ukraine. Signed, Your Fellow Americans Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) October 2, 2022 At least this particular bill sent $12 billion to Ukraine and freed up $18.8 in FEMA aid for Florida. Yes, the pro-Russian bent to that statement is real, as you noticed. It is odd. When the Russians initially and outrageously invaded Ukraine, the MAGAs spoke out in outrage against it. Even Trump said at the time that Putin had a brilliant plan to negotiate but should never have gone in. Now, MAGAs are saying that the U.S. government blew up the Nord Stream pipeline, while most experts believe it was a Russian military operation to freeze Europe through the winter. Regardless, not only the MAGAs pro-Russian in their positions, but they also dont want Biden to get any sort of win by supporting Ukraine to victory. Back to national politics. It would seem to be again like the Florida Republicans vote is more about denying Biden a win by avoiding a government shutdown, as well as seen as effective in the Florida operations to get communities back on their feet. Now, Gaetz and other Republicans get to act as though the money has been denied to Florida. As said above, they will let their constituents suffer if it gives them an opportunity to make Biden the bad guy, seemingly to blame. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., implied Monday that Vice President Kamala Harris's call for equity in hurricane relief was racist. Scott, South Carolina's junior senator, addressed the vice president's comments at the beginning of a campaign stop held Monday afternoon at Bisquecuts and Glazy. On Friday, Harris was asked at the Democratic National Committee Women's Leadership Forum about the country's efforts to respond to natural disasters at home and abroad. "It is our lowest income communities and our communities of color that are most impacted by these extreme conditions," she said according to Fox News. "We have to address this in a way that is about giving resources based on equity, understanding that we fight for equality, but we also need to fight for equity." Federal Emergency Management Director Deanne Criswell said on Sunday that all who are impacted will be eligible for relief regardless of race. Scott implied that Harris's call for equity in hurricane relief was racist. "As a guy who's felt the sting of racism, that's the last thing I ever want to do is to do that to someone else," Scott said. "The thing that we've been working for my entire life is making sure that the playing is as level for everybody as possible. We have come a mighty long way, and thank God we have. We should think of America as the solution, not the problem." Scott did not provide an example of how he was stung with racism after his speech. "I have experienced racism but the actual contrast was that while I have experienced racism, the last thing I want to do was to further discrimination," Scott said. "If you don't want to further discrimination, you have to weed out those comments from powerful leaders that somehow suggest that we're going to make up for discrimination by discriminating. It's just inconsistent with reality." Scott added that he was not discriminating in his efforts to provide relief to people impacted by Hurricane Ian. Scott, who was scheduled to speak at 2:15 p.m., didn't arrive until after 2:30 p.m. He said he was late because he was working a drive to provide supplies to people impacted by the landfall of Hurricane Ian on Friday. "We picked up two truckloads of supplies for those impacted in South Carolina as well as in Florida," Scott said. "I'm so thankful for conscientious Americans who want to help other Americans not based on what they look like but based on the fact that they have a need." Scott said that one of the things that makes Americans exceptional as people is the way that they respond to others that are in need. He said he saw the vice president's comments over the weekend and that at his supply drive he was not differentiating based on anything except need. Most of the room applauded his comments. "We need some common sense in America," Scott said during the applause. Scott's campaign event drew several elected officials including Congressman Joe Wilson, S.C. Sen. Tom Young, R-Aiken, S.C. Reps. Bill Taylor, R-Aiken, Bill Hixon, R-North Augusta, Bart Blackwell, R-Aiken, Melissa Oremus, R-Graniteville, Cal Forrest, R-Monetta, Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker, Edgefield County Councilman Scott Cooper, North Augusta Mayor Briton Williams, New Ellenton Mayor Kimberly Williams and Aiken City Councilman Kay Brohl. Former Ambassador Henry Cooper, Sixth Congressional District candidate Duke Buckner. Aiken County Council candidate Ron Felder were also in attendance Monday afternoon. Scott faces Democrat Krystle Matthews in the Nov. 8 general election. LEIPZIG, GERMANY Swedish scientist Svante Paabo won the Nobel Prize in medicine Monday for discoveries in human evolution that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal DNA that helped us understand what makes humans unique and provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Techniques that Paabo spearheaded allowed researchers to compare the genome of modern humans and that of other hominins the Denisovans as well as Neanderthals. "Just as you do an archeological excavation to find out about the past, we sort of make excavations in the human genome," he said at a news conference held by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. While Neanderthal bones were first discovered in the mid-19th century, only by understanding their DNA often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the time when modern humans and Neanderthals diverged as a species, around 800,000 years ago. "Paabo and his team also surprisingly found that gene flow had occurred from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens, demonstrating that they had children together during periods of co-existence," said Anna Wedell, chair of the Nobel Committee. This transfer of genes between hominin species affects how the immune system of modern humans reacts to infections, such as the coronavirus. People outside Africa have 1-2 percent of Neanderthal genes. Neanderthals were never in Africa, so there's no known direct contribution to people in sub-Saharan Africa. Paabo and his team managed to extract DNA from a tiny finger bone found in a cave in Siberia, leading to the recognition of a new species of ancient humans they called Denisovans. Wedell called it "a sensational discovery" that showed Neanderthals and Denisovans were sister groups that split from each other around 600,000 years ago. Denisovan genes have been found in up to 6% of modern humans in Asia and Southeast Asia, indicating interbreeding occurred there too. "By mixing with them after migrating out of Africa, Homo sapiens picked up sequences that improved their chances to survive in their new environments," Wedell said. For example, Tibetans share a gene with Denisovans that helps them adapt to high altitude. Paabo said he was surprised to learn of his win, and at first thought it was an elaborate prank by colleagues or a call about his summer home in Sweden. "So I was just gulping down the last cup of tea to go and pick up my daughter at her nanny where she has had an overnight stay, and then I got this call from Sweden," he said in an interview on the Nobel Prizes homepage. "I thought, 'Oh the lawn mower's broken down or something'" at the summer home. He also mused about what would have happened if Neanderthals had survived another 40,000 years. "Would we see even worse racism against Neanderthals, because they were really in some sense different from us? Or would we actually see our place in the living world quite in a different way when we would have other forms of humans there that are very like us but still different," he said. Paabo, 67, performed his prizewinning studies at the University of Munich and at the Max Planck Institute. During the celebrations after the news conference in Leipzig, colleagues threw him into a pool of water. Paabo took it with humor, splashing his feet and laughing. Paabo's father, Sune Bergstrom, won the Nobel prize in medicine in 1982, the eighth time the son or daughter of a laureate also won a Nobel Prize. In his book "Neanderthal Man: In Search of Lost Genomes," Paabo described himself as Bergstrom's "secret extramarital son" something he also mentioned briefly on Monday. He father took a "big interest" in his work, he said, but it was his mother who most encouraged him. "The biggest influence in my life was for sure my mother, with whom I grew up," he said in the Nobel interview. "And in some sense it makes me a bit sad that she can't experience this day. She sort of was very much into science, and very much stimulated and encouraged me through the years." Scientists in the field lauded the Nobel Committee's choice. David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, said he was thrilled, fearing the field of ancient DNA might "fall between the cracks." By recognizing that DNA can be preserved for tens of thousands of years and developing ways to extract it Paabo and his team created a completely new way to answer questions about our past, said Reich, who is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press' Health and Science Department. Dr. Eric Green, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, called it "a great day for genomics," a relatively young field first named in 1987. The Human Genome project, which ran from 1990-2003, "got us the first sequence of the human genome, and we've improved that sequence ever since," Green said. When you sequence DNA from an ancient fossil, you only have "vanishingly small amounts," Green said. Among Paabo's innovations was figuring out methods for extracting and preserving these tiny amounts. He was then able to lay pieces of the Neanderthal genome sequence against the sequencing of the Human Genome Project. Paabo's team published the first draft of a Neanderthal genome in 2009, and sequenced more than 60% of the full genome from a small sample of bone, after contending with decay and contamination from bacteria. "We should always be proud of the fact that we sequenced our genome. But the idea that we can go back in time and sequence the genome that doesn't live anymore and something that's a direct relative of humans is truly remarkable," Green said. Paabo said they discovered during the pandemic that "the greatest risk factor to become severely ill and even die when you're infected with the virus has come over to modern people from Neanderthals. So we and others are now intensely studying the Neanderthal version versus the protective modern version to try to understand what the functional difference would be." Nobel Prize announcements continue Tuesday with the physics prize, chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The Nobel Peace Prize will be announced Friday and the economics award on Oct. 10. Last year's medicine recipients were David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for their discoveries into how the human body perceives temperature and touch. The prizes carry a cash award of 10 million Swedish kronor (nearly $900,000) and will be handed out on Dec. 10. The money comes from a bequest left by the prize's creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1895. ___ Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky. Frank Jordans contributed from Berlin; David Keyton from Stockholm, Sweden, and Maddie Burakoff from New York. Moncks Corner, SC (29461) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 64F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A clear sky. Low around 40F. Winds light and variable. Caitlin Ashworth is a crime reporter for The Post and Courier in Columbia. She spent several years in Thailand before moving to South Carolina. Columbia, SC (29201) Today Mostly clear. Low 46F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly clear. Low 46F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Georgetown, SC (29440) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 64F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low 39F. Winds light and variable. The spidery cursive scratched into the handwritten journal from 1834 is difficult to read, but under "Recipe for a cough" the remedy calls for 60 grains of saltpeter, which was one of the components of gunpowder. The journal from a plantation in Berkeley County is one of the riches inside Waring Historical Library at the Medical University of South Carolina. The library is beginning a fundraising effort to restore the building to its former glory but also make it more accessible. An international resource for scholars, the library is also seeking to expand and diversify its collection with the records and history of medical treatment of Black people in the South in segregated hospitals and clinics, records missing from most archives but which could have relevance on health disparities that persist to the present. The library building itself is hard to miss on MUSC's downtown campus because it looks like a castle turret, which Curator Brian Fors describes as a blend of neo-Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. The martial appearance is deliberate it was built in 1894 as a part of Porter Military Academy. MUSC acquired the building and the surrounding land in 1963 as part of a major expansion, and what were once parade grounds in front of the building are stacked with modern buildings. But inside, it is a step back amid dark wood shelves and cabinets perfumed by the smell of old books. The historical library houses rare books and special collections for the university, such as the Isabella Sarah Peyre Porcher Plantation Recipes and Prescriptions, the journal whose cover identifies it as coming from the Sarrazin Plantation in Berkeley County. A 19th-century doctor might have visited infrequently, so, as the woman in charge, "she would have been responsible for the day-to-day treatment," Fors said. While Porcher would have drawn on her own experience, "usually in the enslaved population, there was a healer who had knowledge, and she would have likely learned from that person, as well," he said. "And then there are also unknown, native indigenous peoples remedies for illnesses. They would have drawn on that as well because of the uniqueness, the newness of the kinds of illness (they encountered)." For instance, they would have likely faced a lot of dysentery, an intestinal illness from food or water contaminated by bacteria, which often results in bloody diarrhea. The remedy includes cream of tartar and rhubarb, among others, with the instructions to "dose according to violence of dysentery. Of course, there was no pharmaceutical industry to draw from, so the people of that time would have used what they had, which was plants. Porcher's son, Francis, would build on that. He became a doctor, and during the Civil War, he joined the medical corps of the Confederate Army. Many of the Southern ports, including Charleston, were blockaded during the war, so outside supplies, including medicines, were hard to find. Francis Porcher "develops and publishes alternatives to the medicines based on Southern plants because of the blockade," Fors said. While originally a Confederate guide, Porcher republished it after the war as "Resources of the Southern Fields and Forests," with the subtitle "Medical Botany of the Southern States." While that was 150 years ago, that work is still relevant today, Fors said. It's called botanical therapy, or complementary medicine, or even Eastern medicine now. "The knowledge that was developed at that time hasn't been lost," he said. The Waring is not a museum, and while it is open to the public, it is by appointment only. But the rare books and archives, mostly from the 18th and 19th centuries, form an important resource for scholars on what could be broadly termed the Atlantic medical world, covering diseases and conditions not only along the Southern coast, but into the Caribbean, Western Europe and West Africa as people and trade passed between them. One book in the archive, for instance, is a bound collection of reports from surgeons aboard ships of the British Navy on the diseases they encountered, treatments and outcomes over 20 years. The library already serves as a resource for researchers both in the U.S. and the United Kingdom. "The Waring Library and its collections are the essential archive for the history of medicine in South Carolina and one of a highly select group of standout facilities for historical research in the health and medical humanities in the United States," said Dr. Stephen Kenny, a senior lecturer on 19th- and 20th- Century North American History at the University of Liverpool. One of the goals of the library Strategic Plan through 2024, part of the OneMUSC Strategic Plan, is to enhance that national and international profile by further developing its collection and its connections with scholars. It is also an important record of the health of Charleston, as detailed by local doctors in a series of bound reports that became the Charleston Medical Journal. A peek inside one from 1848 shows a detailed cataloguing of what people died from that year, a long list headed by the curious terms "apoplexy" or "mania." Apoplexy, "we would just call it a stroke now," Fors said, and mania was likely a catchall for any mental illness. There were a number of fevers congestive fever, country fever, remittent fever carefully documented for study. More Information To learn more about the renovation of Waring Historical Library or to contribute to its fundraising effort, go to https://musc.libguides.com/waring/donate/funds/waring-renovation. If you know of historical medical records from Black hospitals and clinics in the South and would like to make them part of the archives at Medical University of South Carolina or at another institution, contact Brian Fors at Waring Historical Library at fors@musc.edu. "Theyre trying to figure that out, but the whole concept of bacteria and viruses doesnt exist at this time," he said, and would not come for decades. Even as it works to raise $1.2 million to restore the library building, the Waring is working to diversify its collections. Most of the work from that time was written by White males, but women "were very active in the medical world," with 7,000 female medical doctors by 1900, Fors said. Black doctors and nurses were forming their own institutions, such as the Cannon Street Hospital and Training School for Nurses in Charleston, which was founded in 1897. Later, there was the McClennan-Banks Hospital, named after famed local leaders, that lasted until 1976. Yet there are "very few records" from those and other Black hospitals and segregated medical facilities that have made their way to archives such as those at Waring or state archives, Fors said. And there is a great need for them to be collected, studied and known, he said. "There is this big gap with the Black community seeing their story told," Fors said. "My hope is (those records) are out there and we'll find them and get them into some institution." FORT MYERS, FLA. Days after the skies cleared and the winds died down in Florida, Hurricane Ian's effects persisted Monday, as people faced another week without power and others were being rescued from homes inundated with lingering floodwaters. Frustrations mounted in the path the storm cut through Florida, and the hurricane's remnants, now a nor'easter, weren't done with the U.S. The mid-Atlantic and Northeast coasts were getting flooding rains. Forecasters said the storm's onshore winds could pile even more water into an already inundated Chesapeake Bay and threatened to cause the most significant tidal flooding event in Virginia's Hampton Roads region in more than a decade. Norfolk and Virginia Beach declared states of emergency as they watched to see how bad Monday's tides would be. Coastal flooding was possible from North Carolina's Outer Banks to Long Island, the National Weather Service said. At least 68 people have been confirmed dead: 61 in Florida, four in North Carolina and three in Cuba since Ian made its first landfall on the Caribbean island on Sept. 27 and in Florida a day later. Search-and-rescue efforts were still ongoing Monday in Florida. More than 1,600 people have been rescued statewide, according to Florida's emergency management agency. Fort Myers Beach Mayor Ray Murphy told NBC's "Today Show" that residents who evacuated were largely being kept away from their homes because of searches likely to last a few more days. Washed-out bridges to barrier islands, flooded roadways, isolated cellphone service and a lack of water, electricity or the internet left hundreds of thousands still isolated. The situation in many areas wasn't expected to improve for several days because waterways were overflowing, leaving the rain that fell with nowhere to go. In DeSoto County, northeast of Fort Myers, the Peace River and tributaries reached record high levels. Many residents in the rural county of about 37,000 people could only be reached by boat. What roads remained above water were blocked, according to the Nassau County Sheriff's Office, which was assisting with the efforts. "Right now we working on creating teams to help find stranded residents and we are dispatching ATVs to help get rid of debris on roadways that were impossible to travel over," deputies wrote in a Facebook post. In rural Seminole County, north of Orlando, residents donned waders, boots and bug spray to paddle to their flooded homes Sunday. Ben Bertat found 4 inches of water in his house by Lake Harney after kayaking there. "I think it's going to get worse because all of this water has to get to the lake" said Bertat, pointing to the water flooding a nearby road. "With ground saturation, all this swamp is full and it just can't take any more water. It doesn't look like it's getting any lower." About 600,000 homes and businesses in Florida were still without electricity on Monday morning, down from a peak of 2.6 million. But hat is still nearly the same amount of customers in all of Rhode Island. The current goal is to restore power by Sunday to customers whose power lines and other electric infrastructure is still intact, Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said Monday. It does not include homes or areas where infrastructure needs to be rebuilt. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden plan to visit the state on Wednesday. In Virginia, the U.S. Navy postponed the first-ever deployment of the U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford, the nation's most advanced aircraft carrier, according to a statement from the Navy's 2nd Fleet. The carrier and other U.S. ships were scheduled to leave Norfolk on Monday for training exercises in the Atlantic Ocean with vessels from other NATO Countries. Coast Guard, municipal and private crews have been using helicopters, boats and even Jet Skis to evacuate people over the past several days. After moving across Florida, Ian made another landfall in the U.S. in South Carolina as a much weaker hurricane. Officials said Monday that crews were finishing removing sand from coastal roads and nearly all power had been restored. ___ Associated Press reporters Rebecca Santana in Fort Myers; Brendan Farrington and Anthony Izaguirre in Tallahassee; David Fischer in Miami; Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia.; Sarah Brumfield in Silver Spring, Maryland; and Richard Lardner in Washington contributed to this report. COLUMBIA The effort to make high-speed internet available to all South Carolinians brought Gov. Henry McMaster and U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn together to celebrate a milestone they applauded each other as making possible. In the last year, more than 100,000 homes across South Carolina have been brought online, said Jim Stritzinger, director of the state Broadband Office. An estimated 125,000 to 150,000 homes still lack broadband access. The number has grown due to construction of new housing developments and more precise mapping of existing technology. A total buildout is likely four years away, Stritzinger said at a news conference Oct. 3 in McMaster's Statehouse office. Both the Republican governor and South Carolina's senior congressman who is also the state's lone Democrat in D.C. praised the progress so far and called the effort vital for providing education, health care and job opportunities statewide. "Rural areas are loaded with talent and opportunity, and we determined its vital to our future to see that everyone had access to this service," McMaster said, thanking Clyburn as "a constant warrior to see that these opportunities are expanded to include everyone in our great state." If not for Clyburn, "we wouldn't be here today," the governor added. Clyburn called the effort a partnership that began with bipartisan conversations amid the pandemic on how to bridge the digital divide. "I saw my grandchildren," he said. "When schools closed, they got online and stayed in touch with education, and they were fine when schools reopened. But their classmates were not. Some of them lost a year in school. That should not be." South Carolina legislators have allocated $490 million toward the effort over the last two years, with the bulk of that coming from federal COVID aid packages. Sign up for updates! Get the latest political news from The Post and Courier in your inbox. Email Sign Up! The first $50 million, approved in June 2020, went toward buying more than 100,000 hotspots for poor students in kindergarten through college and paying for their service through the end of the year. Legislators approved spending the largest chunk, $400 million, in May the amount McMaster proposed in his executive budget plan and State of the State address. His signature came a year after Congress passed the largest COVID aid package, titled the American Rescue Plan, which funneled $8.8 billion to various governments, agencies and school districts in South Carolina. Clyburn was the only South Carolina congressman to support it. While $2.5 billion of that went into state coffers for legislators to control some of which they still haven't designated Clyburn gave credit to McMaster for his recommendations. "I thank the governor for doing something a lot of people with lesser vision did not do," Clyburn said. "He couldve used it for something else. He is using it for broadband, so our children can get connected to the rest of the world, so we can have telemedicine, telehealth." The state will get an additional $100 million for broadband in the next few years from the federal Infrastructure Investment spending package that Clyburn helped push through Congress last November. The U.S. House majority whip said that will provide the remaining taxpayer money needed to complete the expansion. The broadband office, which didn't officially exist until July 2021, is partnering with dozens of internet service providers of all sizes, which have to pony up matching money. By year's end, $180 million in grants will be awarded, Stritzinger said. Priority for connections goes to neighborhoods with K-12 students and areas with no internet service providers, he said. He stressed that making internet access available is only part of the equation. Much work remains in helping people sign up and pay for the service. The federal government is providing a $30 monthly subsidy for low-income residents to help out with that too, he said. "Theres a lot of work to do be done there," Stritzinger said. "Internet service is expensive." COLUMBIA The debate over whether to further ban abortion in South Carolina continues with the state Senate being asked to return to Columbia later this month. Senators will meet Oct. 18 to decide how to respond to last week's vote in the House after most Republicans insisted on a near-total ban. Senate President Thomas Alexander's decision to call senators back keeps the effort alive, though barely. Senators will likely insist on their own amendments. That would allow three senators to be appointed to a joint House-Senate committee that will try to work out a compromise between the chambers' vastly different versions. Senate leaders continue to say the chance of that happening is remote. The House version bans abortions from the outset, except when the mother's life is in danger and for victims of rape or incest up to three months pregnant. The Senate version largely reinforces existing law that bans abortions around six weeks into a pregnancy. Alexander, R-Walhalla, said last week the House's action made the possibility of any abortion bill reaching Gov. Henry McMaster's desk "almost impossible." He "wasn't bluffing," Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey. R-Edgefield, said Oct. 3. "We could come away with nothing at all." Sign up for updates! Get the latest political news from The Post and Courier in your inbox. Email Sign Up! Another possibility in two weeks is that senators simply adjourn without appointing conferees, which would signal the end of this year's effort. The bill will officially die with the November elections, which create a new Legislature. The process would have to start anew next year. The Oct. 18 session will be short. Senate rules don't allow for debate or a filibuster on the potential motions. The Senate's return comes a day before the state Supreme Court hears arguments over whether the "fetal heartbeat" law signed by McMaster last year violates privacy rights in South Carolina's constitution. The timing is coincidental. It just happens to be when senators said they were available, Massey said. Senators had hoped their version of the abortion bill would result in the justices unblocking the so-called heartbeat law while they consider the constitutional question. Massey and other GOP leaders said they wrote a section to fix a legal conflict that justices pointed to in halting the law. That law, which bans abortions once an ultrasound detects cardiac activity, took effect in late June, shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court overruled the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision and made a federal challenge moot. It was suspended again by the state Supreme Court in mid-August after abortion clinics sued over state privacy rights. Until justices rule differently, abortions remain legal in South Carolina through 5 months, as per a 2016 law that was never challenged. But second trimester abortions are generally performed in hospitals. Planned Parenthood clinics do not provide abortions in South Carolina past 14 weeks. Dick Morris says that Hillary Clinton is preparing for another presidential run in 2024: Morris, a former aide to President Bill Clinton, said Hillary is setting herself up to enter the race as a moderate choice for Democrats in two years for what would be her third shot at the White House. I see more and more signs that Hillarys going to run, Morris told John Catsimatidis on his WABC 770 AM radio show in an interview that aired Sunday, noting that she has been remarking that Americans do not believe in open borders. These are all signals that she is going to be the moderate candidate for president. Shes going to say after the election, See, the left cost us the House and the Senate. If we stay with a left-wing candidate in 2024, were going to lose the White House. Im the only one who will tack to the center and give us a chance at victory, Morris said. I dont know whether Dick Morris is officially a Republican, but it has been a long time since he has had much to do with the Democratic Party. Still, he has a point: Hillary is right about open borders, and her ambition is likely as boundless as ever. And if not Hillary, who? The pickings are slim: Once Biden pulls out, the polling will show that the Democrats are leaning toward some crazy radical like Gavin Newson, Bernie Sanders. Maybe even AOC herself, Morris said, referring to progressive lightning rod Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Who knows? Maybe Ilhan Omar will throw her hijab into the ring, too. The scenario Morris lays out is actually not unlikely, up to a point. But by November 2024, Bernie Sanders will be 83, much too old for a presidential contender. (Joe Biden will be just shy of 82.) Hillary herself will be 77. The Democrats plainly need to find someone youngerpreferably someone who is not a Bolshevikbut who? One of that partys problems is that its governors mostly preside over failed states. Still, all of that said, who would bet against Hillary making one more run? And the sad reality is that if she does run in 2024, she will indeed be the most moderateleast crazycandidate in the field. Which shows how far her party has fallen in a few short years. Two weeks ago Judge Laurence Silberman traveled to Hanover, New Hampshire, to meet up with classmates celebrating their sixty-fifth reunion at Dartmouth College. While in town Judge Silberman gave a Constitution Day talk defending free speech under the auspices of the colleges Rockefeller Center. We posted a link to the text published by the Wall Street Journal and the related video of the event over the weekend in Bravo, Judge Silberman. This morning we receive the sad news that Judge Silberman died yesterday of natural causes at the age of 86, a few days short of his 87th birthday. The Wall Street Journal notes his passing in the editorial Judge Laurence H. Silberman, 1935-2022. The editorial states in its subhead: He was more consequential than most Supreme Court Justices. We celebrated Judge Silbermans acuity and judicial service on several occasions. One such occasion was the Antonin Scalia Law Schools Gray Center recognition of Judge Silberman with its first annual Justice Clarence Thomas First Principles Award a year ago. We joined in with A salute to Judge Silberman. Upon learning of his death yesterday, Josh Blackman recounted an anecdote illustrative of Judge Silbermans recourse to first principles and his passion in their defense in this late-night meditation. Judge Silbermans death represents an enormous loss to our country. He served it with distinction at a high level in a variety of capacities throughout a long career. He was a great judge, a great American patriot, a great man. May his life serve as an example and may his memory be for a blessing. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has classified Nigerias implementation level of air safety and security standards amongst the highest in the world. ICAO President, Salvatore Sciacchitano, disclosed this during the recognition and award ceremony conferred on nine countries for their significant progress in improving safety and security oversight systems at the ICAO 41st Assembly in Canada on Thursday. In a statement published by the agencys website, Mr Sciacchitano recognised the Nigerian government for the exceptional level of effective implementation of ICAO safety and security standards. During the opening ceremony of the ICAO 41st Assembly this week, ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano recognized nine States significant progress in improving safety and security oversight systems by awarding them with Council President Certificates, the statement read. The President of the Council also took the opportunity to acknowledge Nigerias exceptional level of effective implementation of ICAO safety and security standards, one of the highest in the world, reflecting the organizations No Country Left Behind initiative, with the ICAO support provided to States for the implementation of ICAO policies, global plans and SARPs. The ICAO No Country Left Behind (NCLB) initiative highlights the agencys efforts to assist countries in implementing ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). The main goal is to help ensure that SARP implementation is better harmonized globally so that all States have access to the significant socio-economic benefits of safe and reliable air transport. It was introduced by Nigerias Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu during his tenure as President of the ICAO Council. READ ALSO: The ICAO said the certificates were awarded on the basis of the outcomes of ICAOs Universal Safety and Security Oversight Audit Programmes, which pertain to the effective implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) in these areas. Established in 1944, ICAO is a United Nations agency which helps 193 countries to cooperate together and share their skies to their mutual benefit. Other awardees At this years ceremony, the ICAO said it also presented Ethiopia, Fiji, Honduras, Slovenia, and Ukraine with certificates for their safety progress, while Serbia, and Tunisia were recognized for their achievements in regard to aviation security. Cote DIvoire received certificates for its progress in both aviation safety and aviation security, the statement said. The organisation explained that the effective implementation of ICAOs global Standards and Recommended Practices by States (countries) is key to the optimisation and alignment of the 193 regulatory frameworks that govern international civil aviation. This, it said in turn, is critical to the safety and security of global aviation, which underpin its ability to act as a catalyst for sustainable development worldwide. While normally issued annually, the presentation of these certificates was interrupted along with the rest of global aviation due to the pandemic. The 2022 ceremony, therefore, represented the reinstatement of this important global recognition programme, the statement added. Aviation ministry reacts In a statement issued by James Odaudu, a Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to Nigerias Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, which confirms the recognition, said the award comes in the wake of other awards Nigeria has received from the organisation since the inception of the Buhari administration. It said the ICAO President noted that Nigeria has remained the only country whose Minister has attended three consecutive assembly meetings as Chief Delegate with quality contributions at all the sessions. Mr Sirika expressed appreciation for the award, saying the recognition was not for him as an individual, but for Nigeria as a country, and particularly President Muhammadu Buhari, for his top-notch commitment and support for the Aviation sector since he assumed office. The Minister reiterated Nigerias commitment to the ideals of the organisation, and its readiness to continue to assist lesser privileged countries to develop their aviation industry in the spirit of No Nation Left Behind. By demonstrating the strong links between ICAOs Strategic Objectives and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ICAO has successfully advocated for aviation to be viewed as a strategic tool in the economic development of States, Mr Sirika noted. Staring at the cloudy sky above the slumbering Rimni hamlet in the Zurmi area of Zamfara State, Haruna Ibrahim sat on stone rubble. His eyes were tinged with blood, a result of battering and cries after he dared to look terrorists in the face in an encounter. When asked to describe his experience, he frowned his face and scanned around to be sure no one was eavesdropping. He then told the story. One dry afternoon in November 2021, the 35-year-old wrapped N300,000 cash in a black polythene bag, sped up his motorcycle as he headed towards the coven of armed bandits. Arriving at Mashema, a deep forest housing the terrorists near the Niger Republic, he bowed his head, buried the money bag in his armpit and stomped into their enclave. Enveloped with fear, he delivered the cash to them a second tranche payment of the protection levy imposed on his small community. Since 2020, the community has paid millions to the bandits, locals said. This year, they [the bandits] asked us to pay another N250,000 but they themselves knew we cant afford it because we are a small, poor village, Mr Ibrahim told PREMIUM TIMES. So, they started attacking us. They threatened to kill us all if we failed to pay. In the rural areas of Zamfara, villagers, primarily farmers, have sealed accords with the terrorists. They can work on their farm fields and live in peace provided they pay sumptuous levies to fund terrorist activities of their oppressors. The punishment for failing to abide by the biddings of the bandits is a coordinated mass abduction or murder. Locally known as bandits, the organised criminal gangs are terrorising Nigerias rural northwest and central states, brazenly maiming, killing, kidnapping and displacing hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians. The terror groups are notorious for wielding high-calibre weapons, including AK-47s and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG) most times unchecked by the Nigerian police and armed forces. Thousands of bandits in the regions ride on motorcycles sometimes manning Hilux vehicles to invade towns and villages in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Niger, Kaduna and recently Kebbi states. In 2021 alone, the bandits killed more than 2, 600 civilians an increase of over 250 per cent from 2020 according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED). The Nigerian military has launched multiple operations against banditry and terrorism. Yet, the crisis keeps escalating with more worrying tales of mass murder, abduction and forced labour emanating from the north-west. The attacks have continued despite the federal governments repeated promises to end terrorism. But security experts believe the government needs more than military power to end banditry. Authorities need to look beyond the surface of the crisis, said Yusuf Anka, a journalist who has done extensive research on the conflict. How are these armed groups funding their terrorism activities? Kidnapping for ransom is already a growing multi-billion naira criminal industry, raising funds and bargaining strategies for the armed bandits. But these criminal gangs have now taken root in rural communities, occupying ungoverned spaces to impose illegal taxes running into millions of naira on helpless citizens in the northwest. PREMIUM TIMES was in rural communities in Zamfara the epicentre of the crisis and the neighbouring Sokoto State, to investigate the booming business of the terrorists. The investigation, spanning eight weeks of on-the-ground reporting, and interviews with affected locals, district heads, negotiators and security experts, showed how citizens helplessly pay millions in cash to bandits in exchange for peace in communities with little to no government presence. Citizens in ungoverned spaces are doomed to a catch-22 situation. They risk bloody reprisals from the armed group if they fail to bankroll them or if they report them to authorities. And when they pay forced levies to bandits or work for them, they could be easily accused of financing terrorism, an act punishable under Nigerian law. Weve cried to authorities for help many times but they failed us, said Mr Ibrahim his claim mirroring the resentments of dozens of locals interviewed for this investigation. Weve no choice but to comply with the bandits rules. A community bankrupted, emptied by terrorists Rimni, a hamlet Mr Ibrahim calls home, has become desolate after its residents were heavily taxed by armed bandits. Nearly every adult there owed money to someone in the neighbouring Dada community. The loans were used to pay up lofty taxes that terrorists imposed on them, the villagers said. Most times, Rimni residents could not pay back their debts in cash; they gave crops and animals in return, according to locals in the two communities. One local Rimni farmer, Abu Ameeda, said he sold his brown ram so he could pay N12,000, his share of the illegal tax imposed on the community last year. He recalled that each family head was asked to pay that amount to settle the invading bandits. The other time, he borrowed the money from his friend in Dada but had not paid it back before the bandits asked them for another levy. But the Dada community people have their own cross to carry too: many can no longer lend money to their neighbours. Unlike Rimni, they pay in millions because they are a larger community. The people of the place told PREMIUM TIMES that they are overwhelmed paying the armed bandits but they are helpless. Last year, around May, the bandits taxed them N3 million. When they failed to comply, the terrorists invaded their villages, looted their farm, rustled their cattle and kidnapped six residents, demanding six million as ransom. The village leaders agreed to pay three million to free the abductees after negotiating with the bandits. But what they saw at the bandits camp stunned them, witnesses said. When we got to their forest, we realised our persons had been killed, said Kabiru Maraba, a school teacher and leader in the Dada community. The bandits collected the three million and warned us to never default in payment of our taxes. They told us killing our persons was the punishment for our failure to cooperate with them. They also told us if we wanted peace we must do whatever they said. Around October last year, the gangs raided farmlands in Dada again, chasing away farmers with guns and clubs. They came to ask for more funds from the people; this time N1.5 million. The community people interviewed by PREMIUM TIMES said they had no choice but to quickly comply with their demand to avoid a repeat of the last incident. After we paid, we were given a week to harvest our farm products, said Mr Maraba, shedding tears. Another witness to the raid, Haruna Rasheed, a local farmer, testified saying: We gathered this money from one another. Some of us paid N500 and others like me gave up to N15000. Thats how we got the money. Between October 2021 and July 2022, the Dada community paid up to N17 million in taxes to the armed bandits, according to interviews with local heads in the community. Whenever they raided a village, they would collect phones and use them to contact people from the village whose phones they didnt collect, a resident said. Thats how they get in contact with us and give us instructions on how and when to pay our taxes. The neighbouring Rimni community is now bare of its people, including the district head, Magaji Haruna. The bandits have taken over farmlands along the road leading to Birani, Gurbi, Jaja and the whole Tungan Maizabo villages in the area. Residents said they paid millions before fleeing the area to avoid the extortionate armed gangs. Many of the Rimni villagers are in Zurmi town doing all sorts of menial jobs for survival. Recently, the villagers said, a few of them who went back to farm were abducted and forced to work on the bandits illegally acquired farmlands. One of them, Bashar Aminu, who managed to escape after returning to the hamlet for farming, narrated his experience. We were forced to work for them on the farm and we were not paid a dime, he said. Mr Ibrahim corroborated his claim, saying: You wont even be given food or water. And if you dont work well youll be tortured by their teenage bandits. Bloodshed in Kwadi community over failure to pay taxes to terrorists When bandits first introduced the cash-for-peace policy in villages in Zurmi Local Government, the Kwadi community revolted and vowed not to pay a dime to the terrorists. Their decision to fight turned their community into a junkyard of human wreckage, PREMIUM TIMES investigation revealed. One day in 2020, arm-wielding bandits invaded their villages unannounced. But the villagers were ready to fight; they loaded their dane guns and unleashed fire on the terrorists, killing a few of them. The bandits returned to their base angry, witnesses said. Although the militants killed nine persons among the villagers, the villagers were happy they fought back and thought freedom had come. They were wrong. A few days later, survivors said, the bandits returned with more sophisticated firearms to attack the community. It was raining heavily; so, the village fighters could not power their local guns to fight back this time. We heard the sounds of motorcycles; so a boy peeped to see what was happening. On seeing him, they shot him and he fell off the fence. Thats when we knew it was them [the bandits], said Usman Aliyu, one of the survivors of the attack. Those with knives and machetes tried to fight but failed; others ran for their lives, witnesses said, recalling how the bandits looted their farm stores and rustled their cows. In a few hours, the bandits overpowered the community fighters, killing 26 more persons. The killers then asked the survivors to leave the village before their next arrival. Since then, the Kwadi community has been deserted by its people; only wreckage is left in the place. The community and its farmlands now belong to the armed bandits, villagers said, noting that the landscape has also been turned into a hideout where kidnap victims are kept. Many of the survivors now live in Zurmi town while some relocated to Gusau, the Zamfara State capital. Like Zamfara, like Kebbi The massacre of over 35 villagers and the eventual subjugation of the Kwadi community is similar to how the terror gangs murdered 65 local fighters in the Danko Wasagu area of Kebbi State about 340 kilometres away for fighting against the N25 million levy imposed on them last year. Armed gangs enforcing payment of illegal taxes in ungoverned spaces often get away with massacring residents of Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto and Katsina states. Now, some of the bandits walk freely on the streets of Zurmis towns and villages. During our stay in Zurmi, a PREMIUM TIMES reporter disguised as a resident of the communities watched armed boys pulling up on motorcycles in broad daylight. Do not run when you see them, one resident warned us. Once they see you running, they believe youre not familiar with their activities; they will just open fire. In communities where peace deals are sealed between villagers and bandits, locals are compelled to tip off criminal gangs about the activities and movements of armed forces. If they fail to inform them ahead of security attacks, the bandits fall back on the locals after such raids, villagers said. The story was the same as we crisscrossed towns and villages in Zamfara and Sokoto. Inside bandits multi-million illegal taxes Life used to be good for local farmers in Zamfara. You could make millions planting and harvesting rice, guinea corn, maize, beans and tomatoes and rearing dozens of cattle, villagers said. But things have changed for the worse since bandits perpetrated attacks on the states agrarian communities. They make life miserable for the citizens, turning many of them into peasant farmers. Crisscrossing 13 of the 14 local governments in the state, the PREMIUM TIMES investigative team saw traces of ruins left in the farming communities by armed bandits Maradun in the south, Zurmi in the north, as well as Shinkafi and Kaura, the economic and social areas of the state. By many accounts, bandits impoverish farming communities and enrich themselves imposing taxes on locals and ruining their economies. Last October, during farming season, the criminal gangs unleashed mayhem in communities of the Bungudu Local Government Area in the state, killing scores, burning farm fields into ashes and rustling their cows. They warned villagers to stop farming activities till further notice. READ ALSO: The marauders taxed communities in the area to pay millions of naira before they could access their farms. The villagers said they complied. When it was time to harvest this year, another hefty tax was imposed on nine communities in the axis. In less than a year, a bandit gang, led by Sheu Bagewaye, extorted about N20 million from the aforementioned communities, according to interviews with locals and district heads. Over a hundred kilometres away, in the Maradun area, bandits raked N64 million from six farming communities between November 2021 and August this year locals said. The story is similar in Kaura where three communities paid N5 million to the armed groups in the past six months. Also, villagers from Birnin Magaji, a local government 60 kilometres from Kaura, said they paid N5 million to the terrorists earlier this year. And in Zurmi, a landscape neighbouring Kaura, N46 million was paid to the marauders, including the N17 million extorted from the Dada community. In Gummi, the home town of Abubakar Gumi, a Nigerian Islamic cleric known for calling for negotiations with bandits, a total of N20 million was paid to sign a peace accord with the terrorists in 2021. About 73 miles away in Bakura, the invading bandits collected N32.7 million as taxes in five communities, villagers who paid in batches told PREMIUM TIMES. And in Maru local government, data collected from locals revealed that 20 farming communities paid N39.6 million to bandits to allow farming in the past year. In September this year, 14 communities in the Anka Local Government Area concluded the payment of N19.4 million and donated a local canoe on the order of the armed bandits, locals who participated in the deal said. Meanwhile, miles away in the Bukkuyom local government, 24 communities had N146.8 million the largest amount paid to terrorists in the past year in exchange for peace. Also, 26 communities in the Mafara local government paid N122.5 million protection levy to the criminal gang terrorising them. In the Shinkafi local government, communities negotiated with Bello Turji, the notorious bandits kingpin commandeering the area. Locals contacted in the axis said reeling out data on the amount paid to the Turji-led criminal gang as taxes would amount to breaking the agreement reached with him. In Tsafe, the recent crowning of Ado Aliero, another bandits kingpin, as a local chief in the axis, has stopped local leaders from talking to journalists about the imposition of taxes in the area. The title given to the bandit was part of their peace deal in the area, PREMIUM TIMES gathered. However, as the capital of Zamfara, only communities in Gusau are relatively free from paying illegal taxes to armed bandits, meaning that many communities in 13 of the 14 local government areas in the state are largely ruled by armed bandits. N70 million paid to Turjis terrorist gang in Sabon Birnin In October 2021, armed men, led by kingpin Turji, emerged from the forest on motorbikes in Sabon Birnin, Sokoto State. This time, their mission was to dispatch letters to village heads of communities, giving them deadlines to pay N70 million protection levy. Turji had fled Zamfara after the Nigerian military launched attacks on him and his gang. He left Shinkafi, his stronghold, to build a new empire in the Sokoto forest and procure more ammunition, according to those familiar with his inner working system. Upon his arrival in Sabon Birnin, his gang unleashed terror on the communities, killing not less than 40 at a weekly market. He then took over several villages and hamlets. Following the order, residents of 42 affected communities in Sabon Birnin paid N70 million to Turjis criminal gang, locals who gathered and delivered the money in cash told PREMIUM TIMES, asking not to be named. By imposing these illegal taxes on communities, Turji and other bandits in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina and Kebbi states are raising millions to build an arsenal of heavy weaponry to unleash mayhem. By many accounts, the criminal gangs have generated over N597 million from the illegal imposition of taxes on Zamfara communities in the past year. This stream of income is now one of the main revenue sources bandits use to finance their recruitments, training and purchases, according to confidential interviews with locals, negotiators and others familiar with the operations of the armed group. But Lai Mohammed, Nigerias information minister, said armed gangs collecting taxes from civilians across the northern parts of Nigeria are not different from street thugs extorting cash from citizens in the southern parts of the country. Do you know how many places in this country where area boys collect taxes? Mr Mohammed asked. And there is no terrorism or banditry there. In many of our cities, they carve out their own territory. So, it is no indication that the bandits have taken over. State taxes going into pockets of terrorists Zamfara remains one of Nigerias poorest states. In press releases, the states finance ministry cited the lack of commitments to pay taxes by citizens as one of the reasons for the states low revenue profile. In 2020, for instance, the states commissioner of finance, Rabiu Garba, described compliance with tax payment in Zamfata as discouraging. The problem we are facing in this state is that our people dont pay tax; therefore we have to tell ourselves the truth, Mr Garba said while defending the states 2020 budget. What we are generating as a monthly IGR if we remove what we receive from workers as Pay As You Earn (PAYE) [a form of taxes deducted directly from wages and salaries of employees operating in the formal sector] is not more than N150 million, which is very discouraging. As officials lament poor revenue from tax collection, bandits fill their own pockets with blood-stained levies they force civilians to pay them, backstabbing the government and ruining the states economy. Economic and security experts believe that the lack of government presence in rural communities of Zamfara State explain why bandits fill their pockets with taxes that should ordinarily be collected by the state government. An economist and lecturer in Sokoto, Miftau Olarinde, said the governments inability to collect taxes would hamper economic and infrastructural growth in the state. People pay compulsory levies as compensation for them to protect their lives, Mr Olarinde said. Automatically the level of tax payment compliance with the government authorities will reduce people now paying many levies to armed bandits by force. Terrorism survives on finance mainly from illicit sources such as the imposition of illegal taxes by armed groups on civilians, security experts said. Ordinary citizens then inadvertently become underwriters of the bloodshed by armed bandits. But Nigerian law is clear about terrorism financing. Section 1 (1) of the Terrorism Prevention Act 2011 stipulates that all acts of terrorism and financing of terrorism are hereby prohibited. Terrorist organisations also require money to run their camp, feed their members and carry out attacks on their targets, said Christiana Atah, a Nigerian security analyst and academic. Although it may be conceded that cutting off the source of terror financing may not completely eradicate terrorism, it may affect the frequency and magnitude of attacks undertaken by terrorist groups. However, the Zamfara government failed to respond to PREMIUM TIMES inquiries on how the state intends to cut off terrorism financing. The states Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs, Adam Mamman-Tsafe, did not respond to messages and calls made to his known telephone hiline. EDITORS NOTE: The reporting for this story is supported by the Tiger Eye Foundation. The series documents the oxygen of terror in Nigerias north-west. The next part of the three-part series will detail how bandits commercialise forced labour in states. The floodgates for 2023 general elections campaigns were opened last Wednesday, following the timeline of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The 18 registered political parties would jostle for legislative and governorship seats. The most coveted diadem is however the presidency of Nigeria. Arguably, the race for the top seat offers Nigerians the strongest options never seen since the Fourth Republic began in 1999. The candidates and their parties, therefore, will traverse the length and breadth of Nigeria with their manifestos to justify why they should be entrusted with the office. This will by no means be an easy task. As it appears, the electioneering season in Nigeria has become an orchestra of deception, as electoral promises are never kept. Nobody is in doubt that the country has been spiralling in a manner symptomatic of a failing state. Questions are often asked about the value of human life in Nigeria, with the routine wanton killings of citizens by non-state actors without consequences; the poor state of the economy; rampant corruption; decrepit public infrastructure; neglect of education and healthcare delivery. Every government since 1999 had promised to address these challenges, with no significant results till date. Nigerians are yearning for a change of this awful scenario: from vacuous electoral promises, to candidates with measurable performance indices and timelines for delivering them. Insecurity has rendered Nigeria prostrate since Boko Haram terrorists took the North-Eastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa by storm in 2009. The emergence of the Islamic States West African Province (ISWAP) within the ranks of the extremists has compounded the national security woes. Villages have been wiped out; armies of widows and orphans have risen, students have been kidnapped, and over 1.9 million Internally Displaced Persons have been created to constitute a humanitarian tragedy. A report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2021 stated that the insurgency directly resulted in the death of 35,000 persons in the North-East region, while an estimated 314,000 people died from indirect causes at the end of 2020. Official duplicity has made it impossible for 400 identified Boko Haram financiers to be put on court trial since February 2021, whereas the United Arab Emirates promptly put six of them on trial and obtained conviction. This eerie landscape has spread to the other regions of the country, epitomised in the industrial scale of kidnapping and banditry in the North-West, the astronomical rise of the Biafra irredentist movement in the South-East, alongside herdsmen killings of rural farmers over rights to grazing routes. The next president, therefore, already has his work cut out for him. The cumulative effect of these is that Nigeria was early this month ranked as the second most terrorised country globally after Iraq by the Global Terrorism Index. By the end of 2019, the country had incurred the largest economic impact of $142 billion from insurgency, said the GTI. This dubious distinction was made possible by large swathes of ungoverned territories taken over by non-state actors throughout the country. Meanwhile, there are only about 300,000 police personnel in the country. About 40 per cent of them are on VIP guard duties, thus leaving the majority of Nigerias estimated 200 million people at the mercy of non-state security actors. A president of Nigeria in 2023 must deconstruct this security template by re-building its architecture through the instrumentality of complimentary layers of policing, from the federal to the state and community levels. Exclusive centralised policing in a federation leaves much to be desired in terms of a comprehensive security umbrella, as practices in other jurisdictions show. In the present circumstance, restrictive national policing has inflicted violence on Section 14 (2) (b) of Nigerias 1999 Constitution emphasising that the security and wellbeing of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. Declaring for the devolution of powers as the ruling All Progressives Congress did in 2015, which some candidates this time have re-echoed, will not be sufficient for the electorate to trust them. They need to move a step further. How it will be entrenched and funded are granular details the electorate would want to hold on to. Insecurity has gravely affected the economy: it has driven both local and foreign investors away from some parts of the country and made farmers to abandon their farms out of fear of being kidnapped. As the spokesman of one of the Presidential Campaign Councils put the matter in bold relief recently: Nigerians are hungry and they are looking for who will bring food to their dining tables. This existential challenge has morphed into public anger, evident in spiky social media activities. Nigerias public institutions have collapsed. They should be reactivated to fulfil their purposes. The established tradition that the public treasury is despoiled recklessly without consequences must be stopped. It has stymied development. A national rebirth is badly needed. Barack Obamas excoriation in 2009 during his first official trip to Africa as President of United States perhaps had Nigeria in mind when he said that, Development depends upon good governance. That is the ingredient, which has been missing in far too many places, for far too long. It is unfortunate that Nigeria borrows for consumption as the N11 trillion projected 2023 budget deficit reveals. It is a cruel irony that after it freed itself from a debt overhang in 2004, paying as much as $18 billion to the Paris Debt Club, the country is firmly back within the debt trap. A recent statement from the Debt Management Office put the total debt stock (domestic and external) at N42.84 trillion or $103.31 billion for federal, states and the Federal Capital Territory. How the funds were utilised remains a matter of public interest. Corruption seems to be the only business thriving in the country. Global Financial Integrity, a US-based group has bared it all. Relying on World Bank and International Monetary Bank data, it said a staggering $182 billion was stolen from Nigeria, and laundered offshore, between 2000 and 2009, under this Fourth Republic. A strategic policy response is required to address this scourge, which spikes annually. Any candidate who does not see corruption as a binding constraint or obstacle to national development that requires a frontal assault is not fit to be president. It is corruption that has sustained the vexatious oil subsidy, for which Nigeria spent $74.3 billion or N13.7 trillion between 2005 and 2020, NEITI disclosed recently. There is no accurate official figure just yet, of the quantity of daily fuel consumption. This is a dent on the flaunted integrity of Muhammadu Buharis administration. It is an utmost shame that a major crude oil producer imports petroleum products even from countries that are not oil producers. The next president must stop this national embarrassment and compel international oil companies to remit their outstanding taxes, royalties and levies, which stood at $6.4 billion as of July 2022, according to NEITI. It is only in Nigeria that these firms perpetrate such contractual breaches, in the process make the economy to bleed. Off season elections in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states evinced the fact that politicians always devise strategies to undermine the integrity of the electoral process with massive vote-buying. But INEC has upped the ante in the use of technology to conduct credible polls via electronic voter accreditation, collation and transmission of results. Desperate politicians hell-bent on undermining this improved system should be made to face the full wrath of the law. Ultimately, the economy should be productive enough to create jobs massively for the youth, wealth, and improve national well-being. However, this cannot be achieved amidst the perennial collapse of power distribution through the national grid, which has recorded eight nation-wide ruptures this year alone. This sector requires re-engineering as part of the disruption of the system to create a truly federal polity. The era of offering tokenism as dividends of democracy is over. Nigerians look forward to a president next year who will be decisive, forthright and who will shun cronyism and nepotism in governance, which sadly has reached epic proportions in the current administration. Geregu Power Plc, the latest bet of Nigerian billionaire, Femi Otedola, will go public this week, according to a regulatory filing obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, easing the path of the company to raising capital and gaining higher notability. The listing in Lagos on Wednesday, will enable Geregu Power entry to the Nigerian Exchanges (NGX) main board with 2.5 billion shares of N100 per unit by way of introduction, the company having scaled regulators hurdle. It suggests the corporations market value at listing will total N250 billion. We look forward to hosting you at the Exchange on October 25th or 26th 20222 for a closing gong ceremony to commemorate the listing, NGX CEO Temi Popoola said in a letter to the company. The move makes Geregu Power the first power company in Africas largest economy to attain listing status even though Tony Elumelu-backed Transcorp Nigeria, already listed on the NGX, has power as one of its key focus but not as a separate listing. Mr Otedola lost his position as Nigerias third richest man after Aliko Dangote and Mike Adenuga after a plummet in the value of his shares in the defunct Forte Oil (now Ardova) by $400 million in nine weeks, a 43.5 per cent slide in percentage terms. He controlled a holding in excess of 78 per cent in the firm before offloading it to Abdulwasiu Sowamis Ardova and using the proceeds in the purchase of Geregu power following the share price crash. Geregu Power, which generates electricity, has a power distribution unit named Amperion. READ ALSO: Amperion, a unit under the old Forte Oil, paid $132 million in 2013 for the first plant to be acquired by Geregu under Mr Otedolas management. The 414-gigawatt power-generating plant was a state asset before it changed hands during a government-led privatisation round. His investment in the plant at the time was in the region of $1 billion. Mr Otedola was a party in a fierce ownership tussle at Nigerias oldest lender FBN Holdings last year after his acquisition of the biggest stake in the centenarian institution via off-market deals caused an upset that irked members of its top hierarchy, triggering resistance from its then top shareholder and chairman of its commercial banking unit. FBN Holdings hit record half-year profit in the six months to June, with after-tax profit rocketing by 48.6 per cent to N56.5 billion. With FBN Holdingss share acquisition move and the bid to take Geregu Power public, Otedola could be clawing his way back to the Forbes Africas Billionaires Ranking and also Nigerias top three billionaire list, where Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu and Adenuga hold sway in that order. Geregu Power paid N37.6 billion in dividend for 2020 but declared a dividend three times lower than that figure for last year, when it declared N12.3 billion, according to a company document seen by PREMIUM TIMES. Profile of Geregu Power board members Femi Otedola Chairman Mr Otedola, was before joining Geregu Power in 2013, the chair of the board of Forte Oil between May 2007 and June 2019. Previously a board member of organisation including Abuja-based Transcorp Hilton Hotel and Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, he was also a member of the governing council of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council in the past. He was a member of the National Economic Management Team for almost four years. Akin Akinfemiwa Chief Executive Officer Mr Akinfemiwa has experience totalling 22 years in the energy sector with first-hand knowledge of electricity generation and, as consummate oil trader, of derivatives, swaps and futures. As the former chief of Forte Oil, he led the company through its top ownership divestment process in 2019 after heading it for eight years that grew its retail outlets to 450 across Nigeria. Mr Akinfemiwa is the erstwhile chair of Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria and a former director of African Petroleum Ghana as well as of Trading and Business Development at Fineshade Energy United Kingdom. Christopher Adeyemi Director A legal practitioner by training, Adeyemi holds an LL.B in 1989 from Obafemi Awolowo University. He joined partners to establish the legal practice consultancy Agape Consulting that assisted in starting and providing advisory services to more than a hundred firms in the UK. He held a non-executive director position on the Forte Oil board for a decade and is now a director at Amperion Power. Joseph Makoju A chartered engineer, Mr Makoju is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Nigerian Academy of Engineering as well as Nigerian Institute of Mangement. He made a first in mechanical engineering at University of Nottingham, where he also holds an MPhil in the same field. He is the immediate past chief executive of Dangote Cement and, prior to that, was the managing director of the defunct National Electric Power Authority. Mr Makoju held the position of the CEO of West African Portland Cement Company now Lafarge WAPCO, when it was the countrys biggest cement-maker. The Nigerian government last month gave its word the countrys biggest crude refinery in Port Harcourt will restart operation from an outage this December, after it would have completed a revamp that began over a year ago. As we said earlier, the old refinery in Port Harcourt, which is about 60,000 barrels per day capacity, will be functional by December and, of course, we still have some time in the contracting time to conclude the rest of the Port Harcourt Refineries, Junior Oil Minister Timipre Sylva said after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting this month. The Port Harcourt Refineries comprise of two units, with the old plant having a refining capacity of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) and the new plant 150,000 bpd, both summing up to 210,000 bpd. Over the years, the refinery has performed below optimal levels despite the huge resources set apart for its rehabilitation. This has resulted in importation of petroleum products for domestic use for many years to cover for the gap in the refinerys output, costing the nation dear in terms of lost revenue. The refinery shut down in March 2019 for the first phase of repair works after the government secured the service of Italys Maire Tecnimont to handle the scoping of the refinery complex, with oil major Eni appointed technical adviser. In 2021, NNPC Limited said repairs had started after FEC approved $1.5 billion for the project. The government said funding for the repairs will be from many components including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), budgetary provisions and Afreximbank. NNPC TowersApproval for rehabilitation was greeted with mixed feelings as the country had, in the past, spent billions of dollars on refinery maintenance which failed. MISSED TIMELINES The first phase was initially scheduled to be rounded up in 18 months (December 2022) from the point of the agreement, taking the refinery to 90 per cent production capacity with the second and third phases completed within 24 months and 44 months respectively, Mr Sylva said March last year. However, the schedule of activities currently on ground shows that the timelines are already being missed, according to interviews with top officials featured in the television public affairs programme, Eagle Eye, hosted by Ajuri Ngelale, the senior special adviser to the president on public affairs. The first phase of the refinery is expected to start operation by March 2023 following 24 months of project execution in Area 5 of the complex, according to the interviews. Phase 2 of the rehabilitation project will restore the Port Harcourt Refineries to a processing capacity of 135,000 bpd (90%) delivering a total processing capacity of 189,000 bpd by December 2023 following 33 months of project execution in Areas 1 & 2 of the complex. In Phase 3 of the project, the entire refinery allied infrastructure will be restored and upgraded, most notably the fluid catalytic cracking unit and other ancillary operations. Support infrastructure such as storage tanks and product assessment laboratories will be fully restored by December 2024. At the site in April, Mr Sylva received a project briefing from the NNPC chief Financial Officer, Umaru Ajiya, accompanied by the NNPC board. A project oversight briefing at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) headquarter was conducted by the refinery managing director, Ahmed Dikko, followed by a tour. We have three phases to these projects, the three phases have all started. Phase 1 is to ensure that the old refinery begins to function and that phase will be completed in the first quarter of 2023, Mr Sylva said. Phase 2 and Phase 3 are already ongoing but they are not expected to be completed at the same time. But we are expecting that all these phases will be completed by the end of 2024 and we are expecting that at that point this refinery will be operating at 90 per cent capacity. The site contractor, sharing his thoughts, said So far we have seen that we are also in line with the project. We faced some issues that have been solved together. We are confident that we can maintain the schedule and the result of the job done so far is interesting. We did not see any major problem for these reasons. We believe that we may stay under the time frame that has been signed on the contract. Also, Global oil market surveillance and intelligence firm S&P Global Platts, which tracks the progress of upgrades in refineries across Africa, noted in its latest monitoring report issued this July that the refinery is due to restart in the first quarter of 2023, based on an interview with the spokesperson of state-owned NNPC Limited. S&P Global Platts Garba Deen Muhammad as saying the refinery will still be functioning at 16.7 per cent below its full capacity. The rehabilitation work on the Port Harcourt refinery is progressing well and on course to meet the scheduled target of completion, Mr Muhammad said. The refinery will resume operation in the first quarter of next year, to start first with refining 50,000 b/d of crude oil. MISLEADING? The managing director, PHRC, Ahmed Dikko, did not respond to PREMIUM TIMES when reached for comments. Attempts to speak with Mr Sylva were also unsuccessful as he did not answer his phone neither did he respond to questions sent to him by SMS. Located at Alesa Eleme, approximately 25km east of Port Harcourt, the Port Harcourt Refineries were the largest refining company in Nigeria before the coming of the Dangote Refinery currently under construction in Lagos. It is made up of two units, the old and new refineries. The old refinery was commissioned in 1965 with an initial capacity of 35,000 barrels per day and was later upgraded to 60,000 barrels per day in 1972. The new refinery was commissioned in 1989 with an installed capacity of 150, 000 barrels per day, bringing its combined crude processing capacity to 210, 000 barrels per day. For the most part of last week and previous weeks, many headlines of reports from the main opposition party, the PDP, read crisis in PDP deepens, or PDP crisis worsens, and so on. And if one is to predict headlines in the coming weeks, it will be that there will be more deepening so much so that the party could find water or even crude oil if care is not taken. The PDP, however, is not the only party going into the campaign season with an internal crisis. There is the ruling party, APC, where some members are either angry about the composition of the Presidential Campaign Council or the absence of their presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu or, as stale as this might sound, its Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket. There is also the African Democratic Party where even though the presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, has mapped out campaign plans, some party executives insist he has been expelled from the party. Anyway, back to the PDP. Both the party leadership and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, decided to move on with campaign plans and the 2023 election. Move on because, at a time, it seemed as though the party was being pulled back by some aggrieved member led by Nyesom Wike, the Rivers State Governor. He cried foul after the presidential primary in May. he cried foul when Atiku went against the recommendation of the party to pick Ifeanyi Okowa as his running mate. He cried foul when he alleged that Atiku went back on his word after he said Iyorchia Ayu, the national chairman, has to go. An angry Mr Wike had demanded Mr Ayus resignation and that the leadership structure of the party be reshuffled to ensure better representation of the South. Now, many members of the party, particularly chieftains and those on Atikus team, believed there is only so much they can do to appease Mr Wike and advised his cries should be shelved aside. Mr Ayu did not leave. Walid Jibrin was the sacrificial lamb who resigned from his position as the chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, for the sake of peace and unity in the party. We all want to make Atiku Abubakar become the president by all means, and that is why I sincerely decided to step down from the BoT, he told members of the BoT. I discussed this with the candidate and he agreed with me. I am sure if the party wins, I will be given a bigger position. He was immediately replaced with a former Senate President from Abia State, Adolphus Wabara, in an acting capacity. Many say Mr Jibrins resignation was the best the PDP could do to appease Mr Wike and other aggrieved members. This is because should Mr Ayu resign as demanded, he would need to be replaced with the Deputy National Chairman (North) Umar Damagum. But the resignation was not enough to please Mr Wike and other aggrieved members including governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State and Samuel Ortom of Benue State. The party eventually produced a 600-member Presidential Campaign Council. And although Messrs Wike, Makinde and Ikpeazus names were on the list, they pulled out of Atikus campaign insisting that Mr Ayu must go. Focus on campaigns Again, ignoring the demands of the aggrieved members, the party inaugurated the council to mark the start of campaigns. And noticeably absent were the River State governor and his allies. Besides charging the council members to work hard and procure victory for the party, one other thing that speakers at the event echoed was an appeal to aggrieved members. Messrs Atiku, Okowa, and Udom all preached the need for unity and for all members to work together for the common good. A surprise bonanza Nigerians were still awaiting the next twist in the partys crisis when letters from some members of the National Working Committee (NWC) surfaced online. In the letters, addressed to Mr Ayu, the members at least four of them said they were returning sums ranging from N28 million to N36 million paid into their bank accounts by the party. The decision to make the refund, they said, became necessary after reports suggested that Mr Ayu had attempted to bribe them. They said they noticed the payment after the media accused them of taking bribes. Those who returned the money are the Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja; National Vice Chairman (South-West) Olasoji Adagunodo, National Vice Chairman (South-south), Dan Orbih, and the National Women Leader, Stella Affah-Attoe. All of them are associates of Mr Wike. The revelation came about a week after Mr Wike, in an interview, alleged that the national chairman bribed some members to the tune of N1 billion. It also came days after media reports claimed that some members of the NWC had received bribes from Mr Ayu to get them on his side. Some key questions are, would the NWC members have returned the money if there were no reports alleging a bribe? Have they received other payments like that and kept mum about it? The party described the money as payment for housing allowance (a routine payment to staff). If it was a housing allowance, why are they returning it? And will they reject subsequent allowances for fear of being accused of taking bribes? We could ask why Mr Ayu has not said anything about it but we know better. Since his back and forth with Mr Wike on who is a child and who is not, he promised to keep quiet and not react to comments. And in this case, which is indicting to him, silence is golden. A confused presidential candidate No matter how they try to hide it, Atiku and the PDP are worried. And they should be. The recent giveaway to some NWC members poses a huge threat to his campaign plans and his chances at large. Besides Mr Wike who would probably be laughing at a corner and saying I told you so in his firm and husky voice, Nigerians are not finding it funny. The PDP has been exposed to ridicule over corruption by its officials which did not start today. Look at the Party that wants to rescue Nigeria. A leopard cannot change its skin! Nigerians have since left Egypt. They can never go back to the era of PDP, Festus Keyamo, APC spokesperson, tweeted. This makes the story of PDP even worse. How can you use about N30 million of scarce party funds to pay for the house rent of just ONE MEMBER of the NWC? A party struggling to regain power at the centre? Gosh! Instead of this ludicrous refutal, Nigerians should be getting an apology. Atiku appears confused. Confused because while he cannot grant Mr Wikes demand, he somehow strives to make amends and get him (Wike) on his side. This probably prompted the meeting between the two in Abuja on Saturday. Some pundits say Atikus restlessness is perhaps Karma coming to play after he ignored the partys policy on zoning to pick the presidential form. Amid the clamour for power shift to the South, based on Article 3(c) of the PDP constitution adhering to the policy of the rotation and zoning of the party and public elective offices in pursuance of the principle of equity, justice and fairness, Atiku used every tool in his play to clinch the ticket, including his ally Ayu and Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto. A thorn in the side Safe to say the peace Atiku badly needs now lies in Mr Wikes palm which remains tight until his demand is met Ayus head on a platter. Reports from Saturdays meeting reveal that no truce was reached and Mr Wike still insists that Mr Ayu has to go. His insistence on Mr Ayus resignation till now, and a proper representation of the South in the leadership structure of the party, spells just how unbothered he is. In addition to his carefree mood, he has, in the past week, met with members of other parties. He met with the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. he also attended the inauguration of the Body of Benchers done by President Muhammadu Buhari. Whatever Mr Wikes endgame is, Atiku is worried that Mr Wike working against him could hurt his chances, particularly in the Southern region. One more thing While he has gone around preaching the message of hope and how the PDP needs to rescue Nigeria from the shackles of APC and how Nigerians need to cooperate with the PDP to ensure victory is possible, one thing Atiku has said is that he will make sure a candidate from the South-east takes over from him. He needs to stop. Many have faulted this comment and would describe it as hypocritical seeing that if he truly wanted to support a southeastern candidate, he would not have purchased the ticket at the time especially since there was a clamour for the ticket to be zoned to the region. Barring a last-minute change, the Governing Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, will on Friday announce the institutions 13th substantive vice-chancellor. The outgoing and 12th occupant of the office, Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, is billed to end his five-year single term of office on 11 November. Mr Ogundipe, who was appointed in 2017, had running battles with the immediate past Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the universitys Governing Council, Wale Babalakin, over allegations and counter-allegations of corruption, highhandedness, and insubordination, among others. Mr Babalakins successor, also an alumnus of the university, Lanre Tejuoso, briefly hinted at the possible announcement on Monday at the universitys medical college in Idi-Araba, Lagos, during an event to mark the universitys 60th anniversary. Mr Tejuoso, however, did not give the details of the process, but PREMIUM TIMES findings revealed that out of eight professors that submitted applications before the deadline for submission in June, seven were shortlisted by the council last week. Stakeholders are, however, surprised that only eight applicants took part in the race. This, to some of the university staff members who spoke to this newspaper on condition of anonymity, could be attributed to the calibre of some individuals in the race. But the pro-chancellor has assured of a level-playing field for all the participating candidates, saying as a proud alumnus, he would ensure that the new peaceful atmosphere on the campus is sustained. He said: The process has started and I introduced democracy. When we went for a council meeting they did not expect that I would bring ballot papers. He said neither the friends of the outgoing VC nor his own associates were part of those who decided on the criteria on the shortlist. Everybody picked their own ballot paper and those who became members were chosen by God. He said whoever would emerge as the vice-chancellor will be Gods choice, because the process will be transparent. Shortlisted candidates According to reliable sources, the seven candidates shortlisted are lecturers in the university from the Faculties of Management Sciences, Arts, Law, Sciences, and the College of Medicine. They are Abayomi Akinyeye of the Department of History, Faculty of Arts; Folasade Ogunsola of the College of Medicine; Mathew Ilori and Adeyinka Adekunle both of the Department of Microbiology and Botany, Faculty of Sciences. Others are Imran Smith, Faculty of Law; Timothy Nubi, Department of Estate Management at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, and Ayo Olowe of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management Sciences. About Ogunsola Folasade Ogunsola is a professor of Medical Microbiology and a consultant clinical microbiologist and infection control for the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Born in 1958, Mrs Ogunsola holds a PhD in Medical Microbiology, an MSc in Medical Microbiology with Distinction, and a Diploma in Biomedical Techniques from the University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, among others. A fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists, West African College of Physicians, National Postgraduate Medical College in Pathology, Nigerian Academy of Science, and Foundation Fellow of both the Nigerian Academy of Medicine and the Academy of Medicine Specialties. Professor Ogunsola had served as the universitys acting Vice-Chancellor and former Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Development Services. Before that, she had also served as the pioneer and only female Provost of the universitys College of Medicine. READ ALSO: She also served as a governing council member for three terms, ranking as the only one with a such number of years in the governing council among the contenders. Mrs Ogunsola is said to have received various prestigious awards from both local and international bodies and has one hundred and forty-two (142) publications in reputable academic journals and has co-authored four (4) books. She has successfully supervised or co-supervised eight (8) doctoral students and 61 masters students About Nubi Timothy Nubi is a Professor of Estate Management and currently the director, University of Lagos Research Management Office. Born 27 July 1961, Mr Nubi obtained a National and Higher National Diploma in Town Planning at the Ogun State Polytechnic and Yaba College of Technology respectively. Mr Nubi bagged a bachelors degree in Estate Management at the University of Lagos, and Masters and PhD certificates in the same university. He has published 98 papers on various issues around housing and urban development and founded the Ideal Habitat Initiative, a non-governmental organisation that introduces people to a cooperative approach to home ownership through urban regeneration. He also published a book Home Ownership Made Easy in 2003. With more than thirty-five papers on various issues of Housing and Urban Development, Professor Nubi led the first national workshop on Land Management and Property Tax Reform. A former Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Mr Nubi is the founding Director, University of Lagos Centre for Housing and Sustainable Development. About Smith Imran Smith, a Professor of Private and Property Law and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has been a Professorial Research Associate at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London since 2010. Mr Smith obtained his Bachelor of Law (LLB) at the University of Lagos in 1982, his Masters at the Hague Academy of International Law, the Netherlands in 1989 and PhD at the Oxford City Academy, Oxford, the United Kingdom in 2018. The professor became a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales in 2007 and Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2010. Mr Imran had at different times headed the universitys Department of Private and Property Law and also served as the Dean, Faculty of Law. On Akinyeye Abayomi Akinyeye obtained his Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral degrees in History in 1981, 1985 and 1991 respectively, at the University of Lagos. He joined the universitys Department of History and rose through the ranks to become a professor in 2005. A former Dean of the Faculty of Arts from 2013 to 2015, and a member of the universitys governing council from 2012 to 2016. He is a member of the specialised committee on the Humanities of the Nigerian National Order of Merit Awards Governing Board and a former Chairman of the universitys branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). He was also the unions Ibadan Zonal Coordinator from 2007 to 2010. Mr Akinyeye belongs to different professional bodies and is a Fellow of the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN), regarded as the countrys pioneer academic association. About Ilori Born on 4 July 1963, Matthew Ilori obtained his degrees, Bachelor of Science in Biology, Master of Philosophy in Microbiology and Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology at the University of Lagos in 1984, 1990 and 1998 respectively. Mr Iloris teaching experience began at the university in 1986 when he served as a graduate assistant in the Department of Biological Sciences and later moved to the Department of Botany and Microbiology, Lagos State University, Ojo. In 1996, Mr Ilori returned to UNILAGs Department of Botany and Microbiology where he rose through the ranks to become a professor in 2009. A former member of the National Oil Spill Guidelines Drafting Team for NOSDRA, Mr Ilori has also functioned as an external examiner to the University of Cape Town in South Africa, the University of Ibadan and the Lagos State University, Ojo. Mr Ilori is a recipient of many awards, scholarships, research grants and honours including UNESCO Fellowship in Biotechnology, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK (1997), Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) Fellow, Institut fur Biologie V, Aachen Technical University, Germany (2000-2001), among others. About Adekunle Adedotun Adekunle was born on 9 February 1963 and bagged a B.Sc (Hons) in Botany from the University of Lagos in 1986. He also bagged his M.Sc. in Botany and PhD in Botany from the university in 1988 and 1996 respectively. Mr Adekunle joined the university in 1989 as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Lagos became an associate professor in 2010, and is now a professor. In 1999, he was awarded a UNESCO fellowship in Biotechnology and won the UNILAG faculty winning research award, for the College of Medicine through the Department of biochemistry in 2006. About Olowe Mr Olowe, whose comprehensive profile could not be obtained as of the time of filing this report, was a chairman of the UNILAG chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, and a former head of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management Services, on the campus. The president of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, Salvatore Siacchitano, has said the organisation is committed to partnering with Nigeria on the establishment of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja. A statement by Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to Nigerias Minister of Aviation, James Odaudu, on Saturday, said the ICAO president gave the assurance when Nigerias aviation minister, Hadi Sirika, led the countrys delegation to the 41st general assembly of the organisation to his office at the ICAO headquarters in Montreal Canada. ICAO would always be part of every effort geared towards addressing the manpower needs of member-nations in order to service and manage the ever-expanding Aviation industry, asserting that Nigerias decision to establish the university was a welcome development, the statement quoted the ICAO president to have said. Mr Siacchitano said the university would represent a new channel for the training of professional managers for the industry, especially within the African region, being the first of its kind in the continent. According to the statement, he promised to visit the site for the university during the forthcoming ICAO Air Negotiation event (ICAN) to be hosted by Nigeria in December. The visit, according to Mr Siacchitano, will give him a clearer picture of the immediate needs and the level of participation of the organisation. The statement noted that Mr Siacchitano also used the visit to express ICAOs appreciation to the government of Nigeria for its commitment to the ideals of the organisation at all times, saying that the acceptance to host the ICAN event was a clear demonstration of the said commitment. In his remarks, Mr Sirika expressed Nigerias gratitude to the ICAO Council President for his reassurance of the Councils earlier pledge to be involved in the university project, informing him that all the necessary regulatory requirements have been met and approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC). He assured that the forthcoming ICAN event holding in Nigeria will be a resounding success just like the earlier ICAO events hosted by the country. Similarly, the government of Qatar has also expressed its readiness to participate in the establishment and running of the African Aviation and Aerospace University located in Abuja. According to the statement, the Qatari Minister of Transport, Jassim Al-Sulaiti, disclosed this at a meeting with Mr Sirika at the sidelines of the ongoing 41st General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada. The minister said the government of Qatar is excited to partner with Nigeria through providing some funding and training of its manpower in the university, noting that it will be a better option for his country. On his part, Nigerias Aviation Minister appreciated the Qatari Minister for believing in the university project and said that the involvement of the country will further deepen the relationship between the two countries. The two Ministers agreed to meet further to develop modalities for partnership in the project, given the interests being shown by some ICAO members and the organisation itself, the statement noted. Aviation and Aerospace University In 2017, the Federal Government announced that it would establish aviation university in the future. Last month, Mr Sirika announced that the Federal Government has commenced plans to enroll students in its Aviation and Aerospace University (AAU) and that it will be located in Abuja. He said the university would commence registration for the 2022/2023 academic session from September 26, to November 18, noting that the take-off followed a provisional approval by the National Universities Commission (NUC). According to him, the main objective of the establishment of the aviation university is the need for the country to go into field research development in the areas of aviation and aerospace. He, however, said the University would be a pan-African institution but that Nigeria would be the focus centre. The university has been given a location very close to the airport area by the government and it will be established there, the minister said. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has said that young people in Nigeria dont value democracy because their expectations have not been met. He stated that Nigeria needs a leader that can reassure the youth about democracy being the best alternative. Mr Gbajabiamila spoke in Abuja on Monday at the opening ceremony of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative for some youth. The initiative seeks to train 74 selected youth to develop public sector skills. The speaker said most youth did not experience the military government and have become disillusioned with the incremental progress offered by democracy, stressing that radical changes are required. He noted that, unlike the older generations that experienced military rule, youth are not inclined to commit to democracy. A significant portion of our population today are young people who have no experience of a military government and are not conditioned to see democracy as an absolute good for its own sake. They bear no allegiance to politics and politicians, and their judgment of governing systems and institutions is determined by whether those individuals, systems and institutions meet their expectations, he said. Mr Gbajabiamila noted that the current attitude of youth to governance and politics is dangerous because it is not backed with knowledge. READ ALSO: They are not as inclined as generations before them to excuse the failures of democracy because the alternative of military rule is worse. And they will not accept incremental progress when radical reform is necessary and possible. There is a danger that this generation embarks on this course without the proper grounding in history, politics, and statecraft necessary to prevent unnecessary pain and worthless suffering, he said. To address the problem, Mr Gbajabiamila said there is a need to include youth in politics and governance by giving them a seat at the table. Include young people in the political and governing process. We do this by creating avenues for leadership development, Mr Gbajabiamila stated. He added that we must continue our ongoing efforts to improve our electoral processes. Election outcomes must reflect the will of the people, and citizens must have confidence that they can hold political leaders accountable through the ballot box, he said. Speaking on the mentorship Programme, the Director General of the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Study (NLDS), Abubakar Suleiman, said the institute will partner with the organisers of the programme in training and development. He stated that the legislative arm is the most misunderstood arm of government, not just in Nigeria but around the world. The British High Commissioner, Catriona Laing, who was represented by the Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Atkinson, said young people must take advantage of the electoral process to vote for the right leaders. The diplomat urged participants to take advantage of the training and the internship to learn from the leaders. She noted that they must learn the good and the bad. Nigeria is in the phase of another democratic transition as political parties are in the midst of campaigns ahead of the 2023 elections. About 400 land allottees operating under the auspices of Incorporated Trustees of Apo XK Extension Residents Association have accused a firm, ENL Consortium Limited, of using thugs to thwart the enforcement of a court judgement. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Commissioner, Babaji Sunday, on Thursday, 29 September, deployed police officers to enforce a Court of Appeal judgement that reinstated titles of over 400 plots of land belonging to members of the Incorporated Trustees of Apo XK Extension Residents Association. The Court of Appeal in Abuja had, on 18 May 2017, set aside the decision of the FCT High Court and declared the re-allocations of over 400 plots of land that constitute the Apo XK Lay-out by the Minister of the FCT and Federal Capital Development Authority to ENL Consortium Limited and Federal Housing Authority as illegal, null and void. Police officers accompanied by bailiffs from the FCT High Court subsequently visited the plots of land to serve the Court of Appeal enrolment order and the High Courts Warrant for Possession/Writ of Possession on the occupants of the land. Court documents evicting the occupants were pasted to the estates gates and adjoining premises. But, midway into the enforcement exercise on 29 September, the police detachment abruptly withdrew their cover leaving the allottees, who had gone to take possession of their lands, vulnerable to attacks from hired thugs, Okey Igwebueze, an allottee, told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday. Mr Igwebueze said after the policemen and the court bailiffs left the premises of the estate where they had gone to enforce the verdict, the ENL Consortium and Federal Housing Authority officials mobilized over 50 thugs with machetes to chase original allottees out of the premises. A technician we hired to fix padlocks on the property was attacked by the hoodlums that were brought in by ENL Consortium Limited and the FHA officials. The technician was hospitalised, Mr Okey narrated. Speaking on the telephone on behalf of his colleagues, Mr Igwebueze blamed the FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, for allegedly asking the FCT police commissioner to withdraw his men from the enforcement exercise. But, ENL Consortium Limited denied the allegations, saying the judgement enforcement exercise was illegal as the suit is pending before the Supreme Court. Reacting to the allegations in a telephone interview with this reporter on Monday, the General Councel of ENL Consortium, Olusola Dada, said his firm did not chase the allottees with thugs. Mr Dada explained that the police only withdrew when they learnt the judgement enforcement exercise was in error because the case is pending before the Supreme Court. He noted that efforts were being made to reallocate another plot of land to the allottees, adding that the FCT Minister would be meeting with all the stakeholders in the dispute. But the FCT Ministers spokesperson, Abubakar Sani, did not respond to phone calls and a text message sent to him seeking clarifications on the issue. Why we embarked on enforcement of Appeal Courts decision The allottees said the enforcement of the Court of Appeal judgement became the only option after the Supreme Court struck out both the ENL Consortium Limiteds appeal No. SC.9/2018 and the Federal Housing Authoritys appeal No. SC.613/2018. The Supreme Court on 6 June 2018 in the chambers ruling by Olabode Rhodes-Vivour, Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, John Inyang Okoro, Chima Centus Nweze and Sidi Dauda Bage struck out the ENL Consortium Limited appeal No. SC.9/2018. Mr Rhodes-Vivour (now retired) who read the lead judgement said Appeal struck out, without giving a reason. The Federal Housing Authority had also on 6 June 2018, applied to the Supreme Court seeking an extension of time to seek to leave to appeal against the judgement of the Court of Appeal. It urged the court to grant application for stay of execution of the judgement of the Court of Appeal delivered on 18 May 2017 pending the determination of the application or where the application is successful, pending the determination of the appeal arising from the application. READ ALSO: But, the Federal Housing Authority on 1 March 2022 applied for withdrawal of its application/appeal No. SC.613/2018, and hence was struck out. In the lead judgement delivered by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, the Supreme Court said, It is ordered; that application filed on the 29th day of June 2018 having been withdrawn is hereby struck out. Given the Supreme Courts ruling, the original allottees had falling back on the Court of Appeal enrolment order. Armed with the Court of Appeals decision and the writ of possession, they applied to the FCT Police Command for the enforcement of the Court of Appeal judgement of 18 May 2017. The enforcement was carried out but aborted mid-way on 29 September. Background The Apo (XK) Extension Annex Layout was designed by the Federal Capital Development Authority and a Certificate of Occupancy was issued to would-be-residents in 1995. But by April 2009, the then Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Adamu Aliero and the FCDA began to demolish buildings which were at various stages of development without giving reasons for doing so or giving any compensation. The victims formed an association and subsequently filed a suit dated 27 May 2009 before the FCT High Court seeking interlocutory injunction to restrain the FCT Minister, FCDA, Abuja Municipal Council, Abuja Metropolitan Management and Development Control Department as 1st to 5th defendants from further demolition. On 31 July 2009, an FCT High Court judge, O.O Goodluck, gave an interim injunction ordering the defendants to stop trespassing, encroaching on or interfering with plots XK Apo Extension Layout Annex, pending the determination of the substantive suit. However, on 5 October 2009, Mr Aliero now a senator, authorised the FCDA to allocate the over 400 plots covering 78 hectares that makeup XK Apo Extension Layout Annex to the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Subsequently, the FHA gave the over 400 plots to one ENL Consortium Limited, owned by former Osun State deputy governor, Clement Adesuyi Haastrup. But in flagrant disobedience to the court orders, the FHA, FCDA and FCT and the ENL Consortium went ahead to build estate houses on the plots. But on 27 May 2011, the FCT High Court judge, Ms Good luck, delivered judgment in the substantive matter, dismissing the suit. The judge held that each allottee claiming occupation and allocation must establish their legal right on their plots. But the trial judge declared the title of the 5th respondent, Tumala Musa, to his plot as valid, and awarded damages of N1 million also in his favour alone, against the ENL Consortium Limited, FHA, FCDA and FCT minister. Dissatisfied with the judgement, however, both the Incorporated Trustees of Apo XK Extension Residents Association filed an appeal with No. CA/A/462/2011 dated 20 June 2011 and listed FCT Minister, FCDA, FHA, ENL Consortium Limited and Tumala Musa as 1st to 5th respondents respectively. The appellants asked the Court of Appeal to declare they are the lawful allottees or occupants of the parcel of land known as Apo XK Layout situated within the FCT. They asked the appellate court to hold that the trial judge err in law when he said that in praying for declaration of the title or lawful occupation, each allottee is a necessary party thereby occasioning a miscarriage of justice. In its judgement, the Appeal Court held that the purported revocations of the titles of the plaintiffs to the land in dispute are illegal, and, therefore, void. It ordered the Federal Housing Authority or its agents to cease to trespass on the land and remove all personnel or machinery from the land. The appellate court also awarded N2 billion damages in favour of the appellants. The Nigerian government on Sunday announced it is set to reopen the Trans Niger Pipeline, the nations major liquid hydrocarbon delivery channel, which has been under force majeure for over six months. The Group General Manager of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Bala Wunti, said this on on Sunday. The Trans-Niger Pipeline, a major pipeline capable of transporting about 180,000 barrels of crude per day to the Bonny Export Terminal, stopped transporting the product since mid-June due to theft, its operator, Shell, said. The pipeline, according to Shell, is part of the gas liquids evacuation infrastructure, critical for continued domestic power generation and liquefied gas exports. Mr Wunti said in efforts toward reopening the pipeline, the NAPIMS leadership under the general manager of Joint Venture operations, Zakariya Budawara, had spent the last one week with Bodo community in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State where the pipeline is situated. He said the visit was of monumental significance as it provided them with the opportunity to reconnect with the people of the Bodo Community. Our presence today is part of NAPIMS efforts towards reopening the nations major liquid hydrocarbon delivery atrium, the Trans Niger Pipeline, critical infrastructure in the crude oil export, which has been under force majeure for over six months, Mr Wunti said. He said the visit was part of the companys continuous journey to re-strengthen its trust with one of the communities where NAPIMS and its partners are conducting business. It is also a demonstration of NNPCs strong commitments to its core values, integrity, excellence, and sustainability, he said. During their stay, Mr Wunti said they gathered a deeper understanding of the challenges of the people of Bodo. He said the Bodo people demonstrated their traditional hospitality and commitment towards ensuring the security of national hydrocarbon infrastructure in their domain. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, NNPCL under the leadership of the Group CEO, Mallam Mele Kyari has continued to work with its host communities towards improving the quality of life, creating business, employment and capacity development among others. In line with the focus of the NNPC management, we will continue to do all we can to better the lives of Bodo and the entire Ogoni people. This is a new dawn, Mr Wunti said. The US Central District Court in California has postponed the sentencing of Ramon Abbas, a Nigerian Instagram celebrity, popularly known as Hushpuppi, who has pleaded guilty to multi-million-dollar fraud charges. Hushpuppi was apprehended in Dubai, the United Arab Emirate (UAE) in June 2020, and subsequently taken to the US, where he pleaded guilty to the charges in July 2021. The trial judge, Otis Wright, has fixed 7 November as the date to sentence Hushpuppi, according to a courts notice obtained by PREMIUM TIMES. COUNSEL ARE NOTIFIED, the Sentencing is CONTINUED to November 7, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. as to Defendant Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, the courts announcement shifting the sentencing read. The sentencing hearing was initially moved by Judge Wright from 14 February to 11 July before shifting it to 21 September and now 7 November. Hushpuppi, in July 2021, agreed to plead guilty to the multi-million-dollar fraud charges slammed against him by the American government. He has been in prison since his arrest in Dubai and rendition to the US in June 2020. In a dramatic twist, Mr Abbas, who initially maintained his innocence, entered into a plea bargain agreement with the US authorities in July 2021, in the hope of getting a lighter punishment. He pleaded guilty to Count Two which is Conspiracy to Engage in Money Laundering, an offence that attracts a maximum imprisonment of 20 years among other punishments including full restitution, his plea agreement with the U.S. government states in part. Despite pleading guilty, Mr Abbas will not be freed from paying restitution. Defendant understands that the defendant will be required to pay full restitution to the victim(s) of the offence to which the defendant is pleading guilty. Defendant agrees that, in return for the USAOs compliance with its obligations under this agreement, the court may order restitution to persons other than the victim(s) of the offenses to which defendant is pleading guilty and in amounts greater than those alleged in the count to which defendant is pleading guilty, the plea agreement seen by PREMIUM TIMES in July 2021 read. Not being an American citizen, he will be deported after completing his jail term and paying up the amount to be restituted. The maximum penalty for the offence which Mr Abass hopes will be reduced at his sentencing include: 20 years imprisonment; a 3-year period of supervised release; a fine of $500,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greatest; and a mandatory special assessment of $100. Earlier in June 2020, the 39-year-old known for flaunting his opulent lifestyle on social media was arrested in Dubai by special agents including the Emerati police officers and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) operatives. The FBI stated in an affidavit obtained by PREMIUM TIMES that its investigations revealed that Mr Abbas financed this extravagant lifestyle with proceeds of crime. Background The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Central District of California states in the agreement that beginning no later than on or about January 18, 2019, through on or about June 9, 2020, Hushpuppi knowingly combined, agreed, and conspired with multiple other persons (co-conspirators) to conduct financial transactions into, within, and outside the United States involving property that represented the proceeds of wire fraud. The co-conspirators, according to USAO, targeted multiple victims and laundered and/or attempted to launder funds fraudulently obtained, and attempted to be fraudulently obtained, through bank cyber-heists, business email compromise (BEC) frauds, and other fraud schemes. The intended victims of the conspiracy were said to include a foreign financial institution (which was a bank in Malta), the victims law firm (located in New York State), and two companies located in the United Kingdom. Mr Abass was said to have known that these fraudulent schemes included bank cyber-heists, BEC schemes, and other fraud schemes. A top Nigerian police officer, Abba Kyari, was later indicted over his roles in facilitating the crime. But a federal court in Abuja, recently dismissed the Nigerian governments extradition request for Mr Kyari. The judge, Emeka Nwite, said Nigerias Attorney-General, Abubakar Malami, was responsible for the failure of the case by instituting the extradition proceedings despite the pending criminal case against Mr Kyari in Nigeria. Mr Kyari and three other police officers are being tried on charges bordering on cocaine trafficking. The foreign financial institution (a bank in Malta) was an intended victim of a cyber-heist, while the other victims identified above were victims of BEC schemes. In some BEC schemes involving victim companies in the United Kingdom, Mr Abass was said to have with one co-conspirator on May 12, 2019, how they anticipated fraudulent payments of approximately 6 million per week. Once a victim deposited funds into a bank account, the defendant would coordinate with other co-conspirators to obtain or move the funds, and then to further launder the funds, the U.S. government said. In addition to admitting defendants involvement in the schemes intending to defraud the victims listed above, Mr Abass was also said to have admitted involvement in a scheme to defraud a victim company in Qatar that was building an international school (the Qatari Victim Company) and the owner of that company. He was also said to have in December 2019, begun conspiring with a co-conspirator to defraud the owner of the Qatari company who was seeking a lender to invest $15,000,000 in a project to build an international school. Mr Abass alleged co-conspirator was said to have already defrauded the victim of funds at the time that the defendant joined the scheme. Beginning on or around December 11, 2019, the defendant began to communicate with the Victim Businessperson, fraudulently using the name Malik, it was stated. As Malik, the prosecution said further, Huspuppi falsely told the victim that he would open a bank account in the United States where the $15,000,000 loan could initially be deposited. In truth, defendant and Coconspirator A did not intend to assist the Victim Businessperson in securing a loan; they were defrauding the Victim Businessperson, the prosecution alleged. The member representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Denis Idahosa (APC-Edo), on Sunday, called for the scrapping of the senate and the introduction of a unicameral legislature to reduce costs. Mr Idahosa said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. He said the senate, one of the two chambers of the National Assembly, should give way if the country is serious about cutting the cost of governance. He said: I strongly believe that the senate should be scrapped, not because Im a House of Representatives member, but because most of the legislative jobs are done by the lower house, which is the House of Representatives. And then to reduce the spending. We have limited resources now as a nation. So having these two houses, I dont think its a smart thing. If we are going to cut our expenses or spending, I think one of the houses should be scrapped, which I suggest should be senate. This is because we only sit three times in a week. We are being paid salaries to work for Nigerians; we can extend the three days to five days, while we have one house taking care of both jobs. So I think to reduce the unnecessary spending that we are actually involved in, the best thing to do is to reduce it to one for more accountability. READ ALSO: On the performance of the 9th Assembly, Mr Idahosa, who is the chairman of the House Committee on Legislative Compliance, said the assembly had done remarkably well. Im pleased with what I have experienced so far, though this is my first term in the house, he said. He noted that the first major milestone achieved by the 9th Assembly was the passing into law of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). That was a significant one because the oil and gas industry was becoming a mess, and that is our major source of revenue as a country. The PIB, I believe will be able to address some of the loopholes ravaging our source of revenue as a country, he said. He said the second significant milestone achievement by the assembly was the Electoral Act amendment. Mr Idahosa expressed hope that it would address the irregularities in the electoral process of the country. We have done other bills that are also significant in this country and I give kudos to the leadership of the house for providing leadership that counts, he added. Previous calls In May, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, in a post on Twitter, said he would abolish the Senate and divert the public resources saved from there to the education sector of the country. Last year, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, advocated the scrapping of the Senate with each zone having an equal number of four representatives at the National Assembly. Mr Akeredolu made the call at the Akure Centre of the Southwest Zonal Public Hearing, organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review. He said the country should consider dropping the current bicameral structure of the National Assembly and adopting a The membership of the Assembly should be part-time. No member should earn allowances not known to the Revenue Mobilisation and Allocation Committee, and the people they claim to serve. Legislators should earn under a uniform salary structure. Allowance peculiarities must not be about obscenity. The Senate should be scrapped. The House of Representatives too should not be unwieldy. A maximum of four representatives should come from each zone, he said. Senate President warns However, the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, had warned those clamouring for the scrapping of the Senate that the country risks falling into anarchy if it happens. He said rather than clamour for the scrapping of the upper chamber, those not comfortable with the senators in the current Ninth Senate should vote them out in 2023. If you dont like the set of members in the Ninth National Assembly, change all of us in 2023. Get better people and lets support the system to function, Mr Lawan said. (NAN) The Catholic Diocese of Enugu has removed its outspoken priest, Ejike Mbaka, as the spiritual director of the Adoration Ministry, Enugu. Mr Mbaka, who conceived the ministry, has been its spiritual director for several years. His removal comes days after the church leadership lifted a three-month-old ban o the ministry. The Catholic Bishop of the diocese, Callistus Onaga, had on 18 June, banned church Catholic members from attending activities at the ministry. The ban followed scathing remarks against Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, by Mr Mbaka. Mr Mbaka, during his weekly service in June, said Mr Obi would not be president of Nigeria in 2023 because he is a stingy man. He said unless Mr Obi returned to his Adoration Ministry to apologise for refusing to donate to the ministry when he was asked to do so, his ambition to become president of Nigeria would be fruitless. Many Nigerians, including the diocese, criticised him over his comment on Mr Obi. READ ALSO: The cleric later apologised to the former governor and his supporters saying that his intent was not to malign the LP candidate. Following the lifting of the ban, Mr Mbaka held a service at the ministry on Sunday amidst cheers by his followers. The worshippers were, however, shocked when the cleric announced that he had been removed as the spiritual director of the ministry by the Catholic bishop, Mr Onaga, according to a report by Vanguard newspaper. He subsequently introduced Anthony Amadi, another Catholic priest, as the new spiritual director of the ministry. Mr Mbaka said he had been directed to proceed to a monastery as part of the disciplinary measures against him by the church. So, while I proceed to the monastery to continue with the remaining disciplinary exercises, as directed. I wouldnt know how long; but the church has appointed Fr Anthony Amadi, one of us, to be overseeing all affairs of the ministry, to be assisted by other priests, pending my return, by the grace of God, Mr Mbaka said. The cleric also announced that the ministry had not fully reopened, explaining that some programmes including a weekly Friday all-night adoration remained suspended till further notice. New director attacked Mr Amadi, the new spiritual director, was present during the Sunday service at the ministry to mark the partial reopening of the ministry. He was said to have escaped being lynched by angry worshipers after Mr Mbaka announced him as the new spiritual director of the ministry. The mob reportedly attacked the new spiritual director before some local security guards of the ministry rescued and guided him to the priests lodge. A video clip which captured some of the worshippers protesting Mr Mbakas removal has gone viral on Facebook. In the clip, seen by PREMIUM TIMES, the protesting worshippers stormed Mr Mbakas residence and expressed their dissatisfaction with his removal. We say no, we no go gree, they chanted, as they assembled at the clerics residence. Mr Mbaka was seen standing in a corridor upstairs and observing the protesting worshippers. He appeared rather overwhelmed. He was seen waving his hands, apparently to calm the angry worshippers. But they continued with the protest. The Director of Communication of the diocese, Benjamin Achi, did not respond to calls and a text message seeking comments from him on Mr Mbakas removal from the ministry. The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the fittest among those eyeing Nigerias presidency in 2023, Babangida Aliyu, a former governor of Niger State, has said. Mr Aliyu, who was governor between 2007 and 2015 on the PDP platform, spoke Monday in Abeokuta at the declaration of support for Atiku by volunteer groups from across the South-west states. At the rally, the former Niger governor said a medically fit presidential candidate needs no proof by sharing a video clip on social media. Atiku is the healthiest of the presidential candidates in this country, it is not about fitness machine, and everybody knows the fittest, he said. Mr Aliyus comments came a day after Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), shared a photo of himself on a fitness machine and dismissed claims that he had died or withdrawn from the race. I was looking through newspapers today and I saw a picture of somebody trying to prove he is healthy. If there is health, we dont need to tell people that we are healthy, but we are aware that Atiku is the healthiest of the presidential candidates in this country, Mr Aliyu said. We need security and only an Atiku presidency can reclaim our land from Boko Haram, can reclaim our lands from bandits, from IPOB and all other bad people that are making our lives difficult. It is only an Atiku presidency that can restructure Nigeria. There must be state police so as to ensure security in the local areas, only an Atiku Abubakar presidency can do that. On the economy and education, Mr Aliyu noted that there is extreme poverty in the country but that the PDP candidate would provide a solution. You have seen what has happened to us, today our students in the public universities have been at home for more than seven, eight months, he said. Our secondary schools, many of them are so dilapidated that they cannot serve as secondary schools. Our elementary schools, there is no country that has over 20 million children out of school and you expect to be developed, only an Atiku Abubakar presidency can help us solve this problem. We have become the poverty capital of the world, that should not be. We are expected to, every day, produce 2.1 million barrels of crude oil, but only last month, we were able to produce 900,000, it has gone as low as 600,000. What is happening to the rest? Some people are stealing it, are we saying that the current government does not know those who are stealing it? They know, therefore, voting for Atiku Abubakar is saving, rescuing, is developing Nigeria. Among those who attended the rally included former governors Ibrahim Shekarau of Kano and Boni Haruna of Adamawa; former Acting National Chairman of PDP, Yemi Akinwonmi; Ogun PDP governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu and his running mate, Adekunle Akinlade. Mr Shekarau urged Nigerians to get their voters cards ready to vote out the APC government next year. We want to change the change in Nigeria. And by the grace of God, victory will come our way in all elections next year, said Mr Shekarau. Mr Haruna appealed for support for Atiku, urging the party members to take the campaigns to the grassroots. I want to appeal to you to join us as you make a commitment towards the primaries to support him and you delivered, we want to also appeal to you that now that the campaigns have started, we plead that this campaign should go to the wards, should go to the units. Mr Adebutu also called for support for Atiku, saying only the PDP can position the Southwest in its rightful position. Before the primaries, I told people that for the peace of Nigeria, let us all support Atiku Abubakar, some people were adamant, they insisted that it was the turn of Yoruba, but I told them Yorubas have ruled previously, he said. But some people, because of their selfish interest, dont want Atiku to emerge as our candidate. You cannot lose your integrity because of a pot of porridge. A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Femi Fani-Kayode, has asked the security agencies to arrest the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Iyorchia Ayu, and other members of the National Working Committee over allegations of corruption rocking the party. The former aviation minister took to his social media accounts Facebook and Twitter, on Monday, to call for the arrest and prosecution of the opposition politicians. In a tweet on his verified handle, Mr Fani-Kayode, who is a member of the campaign council of Bola Tinubu, wondered why the security agencies have not arrested Mr Ayu and the members of the NWC days after the allegation was made. The main opposition party is currently enmeshed in allegations of corruption in the past few weeks following an allegation of bribery by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State against Mr Ayu. Mr Wike, who is leading the Ayu must go campaign, had during an interview alleged that the former senate president collected N1 billion from an unnamed person in Lagos. Some of the governors can tell you. Will he (Ayu) deny the fact that he didnt collect N1 billion from Lagos? Let him deny it, I will tell him who gave him the money, not from the Lagos State Government. The money was given to him in Lagos, he said. A few days after the allegation by Mr Wike, several NWC members returned about N120 million sent to them by the party. The NWC members who returned the money are the National Vice Chairman (South-west) Olasoji Adagunodo; the Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja; the National Vice Chairman (South), Dan Orbih, and the National Women Leader, Stella Affah-Attoe. While Mr Arapaja got N36 million, Messrs Adagunodo and Orbih and Ms Effah-Attoe got N28.8 million each. Most of the party officials involved are believed to be sympathetic to Mr Wike. The PDP later confirmed that the money was sent to the officials but it was not a bribe. The partys National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, in a statement claimed that the amount was housing allowance paid to the officials. The Housing Allowance being referred to went through the due process of the party, Mr Ologunagba stated in the statement. Opposition leaders above law? Mr Fani-Kayode, who is facing prosecution for alleged money laundering, accused the leadership of the opposition party of sharing money like Father Christmas. He urged other members of the NWC to return whatever money is with them before the commencement of an investigation. Why have the security agencies not rounded up the PDP National Chairman and all the other members of their NWC and questioned them about the misappropriation and diversion of the one billion naira that Wike told us about? Are the leaders of the opposition above the law? Never have we seen party officials sharing money amongst one another like Father Christmas as the leadership of the PDP has just done. I advise those on their NWC that have not done so already to return the money they collected because a criminal investigation has already begun, he tweeted. Furthermore, Mr Fani-Kayode also seized the opportunity to eulogise the National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Adamu. There is no political party that has a National Chairman and National Working Committee (NWC) that is as transparent, accountable and responsible as the NWC of the APC under the distinguished leadership of Senator Adamu Abdullahi. Unlike the NWC of PDP they did NOT steal one billion naira to share amongst themselves in the name of housing allowance, he wrote on his Facebook page. Mr Fani Kayode made the claim despite Mr Adamus removal as the chairman of the Northern Senators Forum by his colleagues in 2018 over alleged financial mismanagement and other related matters. Mr Adamu later claimed that his removal was political. Also, in 2010, Mr Adamu, who was governor of Nasarawa State from 1999 to 2007, was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with 149 counts of corruption at a Federal High Court in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital. Burkina Fasos deposed military ruler, Paul-Henri Damiba, has given conditions for his resignation from government, mediators said in a statement. According to a statement by mediating religious and community leaders, Mr Damiba offered his resignation in order to avoid confrontations with serious human and material consequences. The West African country last Friday experienced another coup when army captain Ibrahim Traore announced that Mr Damiba had been deposed and his government dissolved, eight months after the latter in a similar coup ousted President Roch Kabore. Al Jazeera reported the conditions Mr Damiba gave for his resignation to include a guarantee of security for his allies in the military, a guarantee of his security and rights, and assurance that those taking power will respect the pledge he gave to West Africas regional bloc for a return to civilian rule within two years. Mr Traore was recognised as the new leader of the country after he agreed to the conditions given. He will remain in charge until the swearing-in of the president of Burkina Faso designated by the nations active forces at an unspecified date, Al Jazeera quoted pro-Traore military as saying. Mr Damiba, according to the Associated Press, left Burkina Faso for Togo on Sunday, although Togo may not be his final destination. Mr Traore described the ousted leader as a failure while he promised to overhaul the military so it is better prepared to fight extremists. READ ALSO: ECOWAS condemns Burkina Faso coup Far from liberating the occupied territories, the once peaceful areas have come under terrorist control, Al Jazeera quoted the new military leadership as saying, adding that Mr Damiba failed as more than 40 per cent of the country remained outside government control. Burkina Faso has faced dire security challenges as rebel groups, including the Islamic State, operate in different parts of the country. The African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have expressed their opposition to coups and sanctioned perpetrators. Sanctions have included travel bans on coup plotters, border closure and financial sanctions. 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. One of the key players in Nigerias beverage and drinks industry, Mamuda Group Mamuda Beverages Nigeria Limited, makers of Pop Cola, recently rolled out its drums to celebrate the first-year post-launch anniversary of the iconic beverage brand into the market. Speaking at the well-attended Pop Cola anniversary celebration event to mark this milestone achievement, which was held at the Amani Event Centre, Kano State, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mamuda Group, Hassan Hammoud, reiterated the companys total commitment to contributing to the growth and development of Nigerias economy. He said, Today, I am particularly excited about the tremendous progress Pop Cola, one of our iconic beverage brands, is making in the market. I can still vividly recall how it all started one year ago with the official unveiling here in Kano, and ever since then, it has been a success. I have no doubt whatsoever that it is a product, born in Nigeria, whose time has come, and it is here to stay. My greatest joy is that the people love the brand and have wholeheartedly embraced it. Hammoud further said, What we have achieved in a single year is already the desire of many, and I know this is just the beginning for us. The success of Mamuda Beverages and Pop Cola has been nothing short of remarkable. The quest to meet and satisfy the growing consumption needs of our teeming customers who have used our various products at different times and can attest to the quality of our products necessitated the introduction of Pop Cola. So far, we are doing very well in the market and are extremely proud of that. Let me also say, I hold out my hand to join forces with all industrialists, executives, and entrepreneurs so that together we contribute to a bold, beautiful, and prosperous future for our community and nation. It is our duty to invest locally, support industries that will drive economic recovery, protect local businesses, promote exports, and create a society thats inclusive, more equitable and suitably skilled for the future Hammoud remarked. The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Dr Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, who led other top government functionaries to the Pop Cola one-year anniversary while felicitating with the Chairman and Board of Directors of Mamuda Beverages, lauded the company for their consistency in churning out beverage products that continuously meet the aspiration and consumption needs of the people and in addition to that have also created job opportunities for over 10,000 people. On behalf of the good people of Kano State, I say well done and keep up the good work. Group Strategic Advisor, Mamuda Group, Dr. Nadim Matraji said, The accomplishments Pop Cola beverage drink has achieved in the last one year is something we are so proud of and intend to sustain the momentum for a long time to come. Presently in the market, Mamuda brand has become a household name in Nigeria and our Pop beverage products are among the best-selling drinks in the Nigerian market, and we hope to maintain that position while keeping an eye on the region Popularly referred to as the product of the people the drink comes in different variants of Mamuda Pop Cola, Pop Orange, Bubble Pop, Pop Apple, and Pop Zero all in 60cl and or 35cl respectively other products include Infinite Power Energy drink 50cl and Pop water 75cl. The event attracted dignitaries from across all spectra of life including top government officials, traditional leaders, captains of industry, diplomats, and the media among several others who graced the occasion. About us: Mamuda Group, a leading multi-industry company in Nigeria, comprises five main strategic business units: Pop Cola Beverages, Sacks and Mats, Foods, Tanneries/Leather. This Nigerian multi-industry company is aiming for success and long-term growth. Entities operate in a decentralized and highly specialized environment, meeting the five business classes; each is equipped with all necessary resources and technologies, as well as overall corporate support to ensure proper orchestration and alignment with Mamudas mission, vision, goals, and objectives. All of this has made Mamuda Group a competent specialist in each of our project domains, and our ever-growing experience has earned us the trust of our clients. For more information visit: www.mamudagroup.com Leading consumer packaged goods company and member of the Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (CCHBC), Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd., has urged stakeholders in the manufacturing sector to embrace sustainable manufacturing across their operations as a tool to mitigate the impact of climate change in Nigeria. Speaking at the 3rd edition of the annual NBC Stakeholders Forum themed Combating Climate Change Through Resource Efficiency, which held in Lagos on Thursday, Managing Director of the Company, Matthieu Seguin, explained that the event was aimed at exploring opportunities to co-creating sustainable solutions to the challenges of climate change. Managing Director of the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd., Matthieu Seguin speaking during the Stakeholders Forum. We recently unveiled a roadmap to renewable energy transition in our manufacturing operations. This move is coming on the heels of a series of steady investments made by our Company towards sustainable manufacturing to achieve our set target of Net Zero emissions by the year 2040, he said. Our commitment to the environment is total. However, we recognize that the goals we have set for ourselves are by no means easy. We therefore need all our stakeholders on board with us on this journey to make the desired change that will positively impact the environment and make a difference, Seguin added. In his remark, the Minister of Environment, Mr. Mohammed Abdullahi, who was represented by Dr. Salisu Dahiru, Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, commended the contributions of the Coca-Cola System towards environmental sustainability, particularly its ambitious targets to achieve net zero carbon emissions across its operations by the year 2040. Interestingly, this target is ten years ahead of several others, including that of the Federal Government of Nigeria. For Nigeria, the target for net zero is to be achieved by 2060 and for NBC to come up with these ambitious targets means a lot of investment and changes in its technology, approach, and resource utilization. This is a big plus for the company and I believe there are opportunities for other companies and industrial magnates to tow this line, he said. This Forum, being the third edition, shows that NBC is not only committed to talking about the climate change discourse but is also taking actions in a sustainable manner. The climate change challenges are enormous and require participation by every sector. We are glad to see the steps being taken by NBC and we hope to continue to partner and increase our collaboration to make more progress. In his keynote address, Dr Newton Jibunoh, Founder of Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE) lauded NBC for taking decisive actions to address the challenge of climate change through several interventions. Dr. Jibunoh, popularly known as the desert warrior, noted that collaboration among relevant stakeholders is crucial to mitigating the impact of climate change in the country. I must commend NBC for hosting this stakeholders forum at a time when half of the global community is experiencing the debilitating impact of climate change. I urge that we must continue to collaborate and make efforts, no matter how little, to address this issue. We must all start taking the needed actions today. The annual NBC Stakeholders Forum is designed as a platform for robust and authentic conversations between Nigerian Bottling Company and its valued stakeholders, attracting participants from Regulatory Agencies, relevant MDAs from both the federal and state governments, the diplomatic community, the Academia, Industry Associations, NGOs, consumers, suppliers, and other trade partners. Conceived as part of NBCs contribution to national development as a responsible organization, the event serves as a platform for robust discourse, exploration of new ideas and knowledge sharing on some of the most important issues facing businesses and communities where it operates. This year, the Forum focused on exploring exciting new opportunities to reduce global biodiversity loss, water stress and global greenhouse gas emissions through material efficiency. The event also provided a platform for key stakeholders to broaden climate mitigation initiatives beyond plastic waste recovery, energy efficiency and transition to renewables, and water stewardship. About Nigerian Bottling Company Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd (NBC) is a member of the Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (CCHBC) Group, an anchor bottler for The Coca-Cola Company in 28 countries with over 715 million consumers and more than 197 brands in these markets. Their operations have continued to grow over the years and today NBC operates 8 manufacturing plants and 14 distribution centres across Nigeria. NBC serves consumers across Nigeria by manufacturing, marketing and distributing a portfolio of strong brands including Sparking Soft Drinks which has the iconic Coca-Cola, Coke Zero, Fanta, Sprite, Schweppes and Limca; Still Drinks including the Five Alive range and Eva water as well as Monster and Predator energy drinks. ~ Announces comprehensive grasslands ecosystem conservation initiatives at first ever 'Act for Biodiversity' conclave ~ ~ Collaborated with the Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Environment Education and Research, Pune for first-of-its-kind study to evaluate the Biodiversity and Bio-resource Potential of Solar Plant sites, piloted at Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh ~ ~ The conclave brought together stalwarts from Corporate India, conservation domain, academia and arts & music like Mr. Jamshyd Godrej, Mr. Nikunja Bihari Dhal, Ms. Anjali Bansal, Mr. Ricky Kej, Mr. Kavinder Singh to name a few ~ MUMBAI, India, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tata Power, at their first-ever 'Act for Biodiversity Conclave', held on 30th September, reinforced its commitment towards ecosystem conservation across its renewable sites spread across 9 states. With a focus on grassland ecosystem management across its sites, Tata Power will follow a three-pronged conservation approach with emphasis on clean energy generation while maintaining the ecological balance and contributing to a sustainable livelihood. The initiatives were announced based on the first-of-its-kind study commissioned by Tata Power in collaboration with the Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Environment Education and Research (BVIEER), Pune. The study piloted at Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, closely evaluated the bio reserve at renewable capacities, recommended structured management and conservation initiatives. The initiatives were announced at the 'Act for Biodiversity Conclave', which the company hosted to bring together impact leaders from Corporate India and the conservation domain to share perspectives on preserving the balance of life on the home planet Earth and discuss actions that can lead to a more harmonious existence of humans with nature. The conclave brought together experts like Mr. Jamshyd Godrej, Chairperson, Godrej & Boyce, Flagship company of the Godrej Group; Ms. Anjali Bansal, Independent Board Director, Tata Power and Founder and Chairperson of Avaana Group; Mr. Nikunja Bihari Dhal, Principal Secretary, Dept. Of Energy, Govt. of Odisha; Mr. Kavinder Singh, MD & CEO, Mahindra Holidays and current Chairman of India Business & Biodiversity Initiative (IBBI); Mr. Manish Dabkara - International Carbon Markets Leader, CMD & CEO at EKIESL; Dr. Arpit Deomurari, Lead Product, Sustain Technologies, Birder, Conservation Specialist, and Spatial Ecologist and multi-Grammy award-winning Indian music composer and environmentalist Dr. Ricky Kej. Speaking at the conclave, Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power said, "Tata Power is proud to host the first ever 'Act for Biodiversity Conclave', to create awareness on biodiversity conservation, and promote responsible actions to achieve a sustainable future. Environment stewardship has always been at the heart of our operations, and at Tata Power, we look forward to collaborating with change-makers and like-minded corporates who are committed to make a positive impact on the environment of our planet earth. I am confident that this unique grassland conservation study, will be a major milestone in ensuring sustainable ecosystems around the rapidly growing renewable energy sites, in the wake of India's ambitious 500 GW renewable energy goal by 2030." Tata Power, as one of India's largest integrated power companies embarked on the biodiversity conservation journey with its hydro generation units as far back as 100 years ago in the areas of Bhira, Bhivpuri, and Khopoli in the region of the Northern Western Ghats -- one of the major biodiversity hotspots in the world. In addition to a diverse range of sustainability initiatives, the company's flagship biodiversity conservation program, Act for Mahseer completed 50 years in 2021, leading to previously endangered Blue-Finned Mahseer being taken off the IUCN red list. The Biodiversity Conclave witnessed significant conversation on diverse topics like 'Business and Biodiversity', 'Ecosystem restoration', 'The use of technology for conservation' to name a few. Tata Power has committed to the Science Based Targets Initiative and is on track to achieve carbon net zero before 2045 along with a clear roadmap to achieve Water Neutrality and Zero waste to landfill by 2030. Tata Power is the only Indian utility to co-create the first SDG roadmap for power utilities along with WBCSD and 10 other global power companies. Sharing his views during the conclave, Mr. Jamshyd N. Godrej, MD & Chairperson, Godrej & Boyce said, "Climate change, rapid extinction of several species and ecological imbalances are facts. However, they are still not given priority. While conversation on biodiversity conservation is picking up across focused groups, it's important that each one of us support it. Corporate India has a huge role to play. While industries have always been part of the problem, today, we can also be part of the solution. At Godrej & Boyce, we strongly believe that it's important to engage in insightful dialogues and collaboration on climate action with all stakeholders on biodiversity conservation. My hope is that organisations come together to work in every part of India and in every biosphere. Much of what we do on biodiversity conservation will result in clean food sources, clean water sources which are important for growth of our economy. I believe we have a great opportunity to make India biodiversity capital of the world." Tata Power has also initiated biodiversity conservation initiatives in Odisha where its Discoms are catering to a consumer base of over 90 lakhs. The company works with Govt of Odisha to protect and conserve the elephant movement corridors across forest areas of Angul, Dhenkanal, Cuttack, Khorda, Nayagarh, Mayur Bhanj, Keonjhar, Ganjam, and Sambalpur. Along with the Govt, the company is making the corridors safe for the pachyderms by covering bare conductors, raising the heights of the electric installation, and placing interposing poles in both HT and LT networks to increase the clearance from the ground for safe passage of elephants. In addition to the initiatives, special emphasis is placed on enhancing community awareness and education through various mediums including safety jingles through the public address system, Chaupadi meeting with villagers in concerned areas, and display of public safety awareness at various locations. Thanking Tata Power for organising the much needed Act for Biodiversity Conclave, Mr. Nikunja Bihari Dhal, Principal Secretary, Dept of Energy, Govt. of Odisha said, "Govt. of Odisha has so far provided more than Rs. 500 crores of grants to the Odisha Discoms to strengthen the electrical infrastructure in the elephant (movement) corridor. So far about 60,000 interposing poles have been erected and more than 1,700 kms circuit of open bare conductors have been replaced by covered ones in these corridors. Presently, work is going on to place another 75,000 interposing poles and to replace more than 3,500 kms circuit of bare conductors with covered conductors. The work is in progress and all the Discoms are working very hard to complete the work on time. This is a unique initiative and we are committed to working with them to ensure that no elephant dies of electrocution." The other key highlight of the event was a session on 'Power of Music' by multi-Grammy award winner and environmentalist Dr. Ricky Kej. Commenting on the initiative Dr. Ricky Kej said, "The 'Act For Biodiversity' event was an inspiring dialogue organized by Tata Power who are making huge strides in conserving our precious biodiversity. The outcome was clear - businesses need to strive towards environmental sustainability and ensure a better future for all life. In the triple planetary emergency we now face, a ground up movement needs to work together with a top down movement. The top down movement is essential through government legislation, but more importantly, Indian industry needs to self-regulate and lead the world by example." The Business and Biodiversity panel saw discussions around the fact that Biodiversity Conservation and sustainability actions are not a cost centre, in fact significant positive benefits have been observed from the actions undertaken for biodiversity. Business disclosure on ESG now has taken centre stage particularly as far as investors are concerned and the trend is continuing, companies that are managing their relations with nature are actually preferred for investments. The session on Ecosystem Restoration - Grasslands are not wastelands revealed the importance of grasslands in the ecosystem - for the diverse flora and fauna, and the nomadic communities that depend on its resources. Tata Power's conservation efforts in the Lamkani village and the ongoing research on the palatability, traits and importance of grasslands for the future is a step towards a greener pasture for tomorrow. Aligned to its sustainable development mission, Tata Power has recently launched a corporate movement called 'Sustainable is Attainable' that aims to propagate and popularize the use of green and clean energy in the country and to make a sustainable lifestyle 'attainable' for millions of Indians by putting the power to change in their hands through wide-scale adoption of green products and solutions. It hopes to build on energy conservation and the need and adoption of clean energy which can help the country towards energy security and energy independence. About Tata Power: Tata Power (NSE: TATAPOWER) (BSE: 500400) is one of India's largest integrated power companies and together with its subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities, has an installed/managed capacity of 13,735 MW. The Company has a presence across the entire power value chain - generation of renewable as well as conventional power including hydro and thermal energy, transmission & distribution, coal & freight, logistics, and trading. The Company had developed the country's first Ultra Mega Power Project at Mundra (Gujarat) based on super-critical technology. With 4.9 GW of clean energy generation from solar, wind, hydro, and waste heat recovery accounting for 35% of the overall portfolio, the company is a leader in clean energy generation. It has successful public-private partnerships in generation, transmission & distribution in India viz: Powerlink's Transmission Ltd. with Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. for evacuation of Power from Tala hydro plant in Bhutan to Delhi, Maithon Power Ltd. with Damodar Valley Corporation for a 1,050 MW Mega Power Project at Jharkhand. Tata Power is currently serving more than 12 million consumers via its Discoms, under a public-private partnership model viz Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd. with the Government of Delhi in North Delhi, TP Northern Odisha Distribution Limited, TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited, TP Western Odisha Distribution Limited, and TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited with Government of Odisha. With a focus on sustainable and clean energy development, Tata Power is steering the transformation into an integrated solutions providers by looking at new business growth in distributed generation through rooftop solar and microgrids, storage solutions, EV charging infrastructure, ESCO, home automation & smart meters et al. With its 107 years track record of technology advancements, project execution excellence, world-class safety processes, customer care and green initiatives, Tata Power is well poised for multi-fold growth and is committed to lighting up lives for generations to come. For more information visit us at: www.tatapower.com SOURCE Tata Power TOKYO and NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cohen & Steers, Inc. (NYSE: CNS) announced that effective today, Kazuya Yuasa has joined Cohen & Steers as a Senior Vice President. Effective January 1, 2023, Mr. Yuasa will succeed Ken Itai, who is retiring, as Head of Cohen Steers Japan Limited. In addition to leading the operations of Cohen & Steers' Tokyo office, Mr. Yuasa will be responsible for enhancing the firm's existing client relationships and further expanding business in Japan, working closely with and reporting to Matthew Pace, Head of Global Relationship Management. Mr. Yuasa joins Cohen & Steers with over 30 years of financial services experience, including 19 years of experience in business development and relationship management roles at global asset managers. Mr. Yuasa most recently served as Managing Director at Wellington Management, where he contributed to the growth of Wellington Tokyo's platform by developing and expanding relationships with large institutions, as well select local wealth management distributors. Prior to joining Wellington in 2008, Mr. Yuasa worked at Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. Joe Harvey, Chief Executive Officer and President, said: "Kazuya brings a deep understanding of the Japanese institutional and sub-advisory industry that will support Cohen & Steers' next phase of growth in Japan. Kazuya will help Cohen & Steers continue the tradition of delivering exceptional client service achieved under Ken Itai's leadership. We thank Ken for his years of leadership and dedication to Cohen & Steers, and we wish him the best as he enters retirement." For more information about Cohen & Steers, please visit www.cohenandsteers.jp. About Cohen & Steers. Cohen & Steers is a leading global investment manager specializing in real assets and alternative income, including real estate, preferred securities, infrastructure, resource equities, commodities, as well as multi-strategy solutions. Founded in 1986, the firm is headquartered in New York City, with offices in London, Dublin, Hong Kong and Tokyo. Website: https://www.cohenandsteers.com Symbols:NYSE: CNS Forward-Looking Statements This press release and other statements that Cohen & Steers may make may contain 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, which reflect the Company's current views with respect to, among other things, the Company's operations and financial performance. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "outlook," "believes," "expects," "potential," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "predicts," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "anticipates" or the negative versions of these words or other comparable words. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. SOURCE Cohen & Steers, Inc. COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Castle Connolly Private Health Partners, LLC (CCPHP), a leader in concierge medicine, has collaborated with Robert Vogt, M.D., to establish Eagles Peak Concierge Care, a concierge (membership model) medicine program, in conjunction with his existing family medicine practice in Colorado Springs. Reestablishing a Strong Doctor-Patient Relationship Castle Connolly Private Health Partners, LLC (CCPHP), a leader in concierge medicine, has collaborated with Robert Vogt, M.D., to establish Eagles Peak Concierge Care, a concierge (membership model) medicine program, in conjunction with his existing family medicine practice in Colorado Springs. During Dr. Vogt's 37 years as a family physician, he has built enduring relationships with his patients, many of whom have been loyal to him for decades. As his practice continued to grow, so did the administrative demands of operating and maintaining a private practice. Dr. Vogt found himself at a crossroads: continue to practice high-volume medicine, seeing many patients a day but spending limited time with each of them, or evolve his model to deliver highly personalized preventive care and to empower his patients with greater education and information. The Eagles Peak Concierge Care Membership The concierge model offers a rewarding experience for physicians and patients. The increased time and flexibility allow concierge physicians, like Dr. Vogt, to offer their patients longer, more in-depth appointments when needed. "Transitioning to concierge care allows me to continue to provide even more personalized medical care to my patients," says Dr. Vogt "I will be able to communicate directly with patient-Members promptly when they are seeking advice." Concierge patients of Eagles Peak Concierge Care receive a host of added amenities as Members, including 24/7 connectivity to Dr. Vogt via a direct phone number, a customized telehealth app, same- or next-day appointments with limited to no wait times regardless of medical necessity, and a robust wellness program the SENS Solution Wellness Program powered by CCPHP that focuses on sleep, exercise, nutrition, and stress management. About Dr. Vogt Dr. Vogt is board-certified in family medicine and provides patient-focused, quality care. During his 37 years as a physician, Dr. Vogt served as a U.S. Air Force family physician in Maryland, Turkey, Florida, Colorado, and Wyoming. Additionally, his vast experience includes positions as a clinic physician, clinic chief, family practice residency faculty, and medical staff chief. He retired from the Air Force in 2003 and established The Family Practice in 2004. Since opening The Family Practice, Dr. Vogt has worked with his staff to create a compassionate, caring environment for his patients. One of his goals as a physician is to ensure that every patient has their concerns addressed before starting a treatment plan. Dr. Vogt is committed to serving his patients by providing personalized care, as evidenced by the numerous positive patient testimonies he has received during his career. To learn more about Dr. Vogt's concierge program, Eagles Peak Concierge Care, About CCPHP Castle Connolly Private Health Partners works with exceptional physicians to create and support concierge (membership-based) healthcare programs that enable an optimal practice environment that supports and enhances the physician-patient relationship. Member-patients pay an affordable fee for a wide array of enhancements that provide a more convenient, comprehensive, collaborative, and personalized approach to maintaining their health and well-being. For more information, go to ccphp.net. SOURCE Castle Connolly Private Health Partners, LLC Board certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Rhys Branman announces the annual two-day-only open house event with discounts on skincare, dermal fillers, and Botox-type injectables, as well as promotional pricing on select breast and body surgeries. LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Rhys Branman, MD and the team at Cosmetic Surgery Center in Little Rock, Arkansas are pleased to announce their annual Fall Virtual Open House featuring discounts on popular products, treatments, and procedures. This event will be held for just two days: Tuesday, October 4th and Wednesday, October 5th, 2022. Practice director and board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Rhys Branman says he is delighted to be offering his patients the specials that they have come to look forward to every fall during the open house event. Rhys Branman, MD and the team at Cosmetic Surgery Center in Little Rock announce their two-day-only Fall Virtual Open House featuring discounts on popular products, treatments, and procedures. Dr. Rhys Branman has over 30 years of experience in cosmetic surgery and offers a full range of face, breast, and body procedures. All surgical procedures are performed in Cosmetic Surgery Center's private, on-site AAAHC-accredited surgical suite for patients' safety. "We are proud to serve our community, and our fall open house is one way in which we express our deep gratitude for our patients," Dr. Branman explains. "This event is also our way of celebrating the change in seasons: we offer these discounts at the perfect time of year for patients to freshen up their look with a medspa treatment or cosmetic procedure before the holidays." During the two-day event, patients can call in to claim deals on laser skin resurfacing, breast augmentation, and high-tech VASER liposuction for male breast reduction or body sculpting. They may also call or shop online to receive 30% off spa services and products, as well as special pricing on injectables, offered through the in-house med spa Exhale: The Med Spa . Overseen by Dr. Branman, the Exhale Med Spa team provides premium non-surgical treatments to central Arkansas med spa patients, including Botox Cosmetic, dermal fillers, HydraFacial MD, laser treatments, and microneedling. Dr. Branman has over 30 years of experience in cosmetic surgery and offers a full range of face, breast, and body procedures including breast augmentation, tummy tucks, facelifts, and more. All surgical procedures are performed in Cosmetic Surgery Center's private, on-site AAAHC-accredited surgical suite for patients' safety. Dr. Branman is a 10-time winner in the category of Little Rock's favorite cosmetic surgeon in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette's "Best of the Best" contest, plus has four additional wins for Exhale Med Spa in the "best day spa" category. "Patients come to Cosmetic Surgery Center from central Arkansas and beyond seeking the highest level of safety and the most natural-looking results possible," says Dr. Branman. "The open house offers a special opportunity to get the top-notch care that we faithfully provide, but at a discounted rate." The event will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 4th and 5th. Those interested in participating may either shop the online store for discounted skincare products, services, and injectables or phone the practice at (501) 227-0707 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to redeem surgical discounts. For a full list of the event promotions and offerings, visit the Cosmetic Surgery Center website . About Dr. Rhys Branman: Dr. Branman is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Little Rock, Arkansas, and a member of the Arkansas State Medical Board. Dr. Branman is certified by both the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Maxillofacial Surgery, and serves as a Board Examiner for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Branman is beloved by his patients for his caring bedside manner, surgical skill, and commitment to safety. His practice, Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center, is located at 10809 Executive Center Drive, Searcy Building Suite 100, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211; (501) 227-0707. For more information, visit www.littlerockcosmeticsurgery.com/ . Media Contact: Dr. Rhys L. Branman, Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center, (501) 227-0707. SOURCE Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center Rose is joining Deere from Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he served as a senior partner and managing director and worked with Deere on the development of the company's Smart Industrial strategy MOLINE, Ill., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) today announced the appointment of Justin R. Rose to President, Lifecycle Solutions, Customer Support & Supply Management, effective October 31. He will be based in Austin, Texas, at one of Deere's newest offices. Rose succeeds Marc A. Howze, who will become Senior Advisor, Office of the Chairman. Deere Names Justin R. Rose as President, Lifecycle Solutions, Customer Support & Supply Management Rose will be responsible for leading the company's worldwide aftermarket, customer support, and supply management and logistics groups. He also will oversee the recurring-revenue and customer-success goals outlined in the company's Leap Ambitions announced in early 2022. Rose is joining Deere from Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he served as a senior partner and managing director and worked with Deere on a series of high-profile projects, including development of the company's Smart Industrial strategy and operating model. Most recently, he headed BCG's North American industrial-goods practice and was a member of its global leadership team. Rose started his career with BCG in 2002 and worked in offices around the world, including Chicago, Thailand, Japan, and Mexico. "Justin's exceptional background, broad global perspective, and prior work with Deere including his instrumental role helping develop our new strategy and operating model make him highly qualified to serve in this capacity," said John C. May, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Deere & Company. "His outstanding record working with clients across the globe and deep industry insights will provide vital leadership toward the achievement of our ambitious business goals and efforts to provide best-in-class customer service and support." About Deere & Company: Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what's possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor, See & Spray, and E-Power Backhoe are just some of the ways we help meet the world's increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial. For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/. SOURCE Deere & Company Implemented by UNICEF and WFP in partnership with the Government of Haiti, new grant seeks to catalyze US$16.7 million in additional funding to reach 45,000 children NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to the evolving humanitarian crisis in Haiti, Education Cannot Wait (ECW) announced today a US$11.8 million Multi-Year Resilience Programme that seeks to mobilize an additional $16.2 million to reach more than 45,000 children with holistic educational supports. The three-year programme will be delivered by UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP) in coordination with the Government of Haiti and local partners. The seed-funding investment builds on ECW's US$1.5 million First Emergency Response, bringing total investments in Haiti to US$13.3 million to date. "Haiti has suffered multiple crises over the years affecting access to a continued and inclusive quality education. We cannot stand by. This is our investment to empower them to rebuild their lives and Haiti," said Yasmine Sherif, Director of Education Cannot Wait, the United Nations global fund for education in emergencies and protracted crises. While 7 out of 10 Haitians are able to go to primary school, just 60% have access to preschool and only 15% are able to go on to secondary education. Most of the country's schools are private, making it even more difficult for poor or displaced families to access learning opportunities for their children. Over half of the country's schools do not have water or toilets and 75% have no electricity. "This programme supports the Ministry of Education and Professional Training (MENFP) in providing quality and inclusive education that meets the needs of crisis-affected students. By maintaining the principle that education remains a fundamental and inalienable human right, MENFP wants to guarantee inclusion and equity of access to education for all," said Mr. Nesmy Manigat, Minister of Education and Professional Training in Haiti. The initial seed funding grant will reach more than 20,000 girls and boys across 35 districts, providing a holistic quality education, including mental health and psychosocial support and school meals. Worldwide, there are approximately 222 million crisis-impacted children in need of urgent education support. People looking to make a difference can call for leaders to take action in Haiti and beyond, using the #222MillionDreams hashtag and by making individual donations to ECW. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1656121/Education_Cannot_Wait_Logo.jpg SOURCE Education Cannot Wait The preeminent financial data provider has partnered with leading private equity firm Montagu to fast-track expansion of data assets, analytic tools, and global market coverage BOSTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Emerging Portfolio Fund Research (EPFR), the industry leader in providing fund flows and asset allocation data to financial institutions across the globe, announces its divestment from Informa and operation as an independent entity following investment by leading private equity firm Montagu. With this partnership, EPFR will leverage its core competencies to develop new, specialized datasets that unlock previously untapped insights for buy-side and sell-side investors across the US, EMEA, and APAC regions. In addition to cultivating new data sets and more granular insights that help identify timely investment trends, EPFR will innovate a toolkit of analytics, visualizations, and factors to streamline investor workflows. "We are thrilled to embark upon this next phase of our evolution as a stand-alone entity," said Todd Willits, CEO of EPFR. "Montagu has an established track record of supporting the rapid expansion of highly specialized firms with niche, high-value offerings like ours, and this partnership highlights the unique position we occupy in the market as a premier data and insights provider. With Montagu's support, we will have greater autonomy and a new platform to pursue ambitious growth plans on behalf of our global clients and investors." "EPFR exhibits many of the hallmarks of a Montagu investment, a market leader with a track-record of robust growth and strong client relationships. We are excited to partner with the EPFR team and fulfill the company's growth potential," said Montagu Director, Pascal Ambrosi. The new partnership sees EPFR continue to provide solutions, including its flagship macro-level Fund Flows and Allocations datasets, unique FX Allocations, Hedge Fund Flows offerings, Money Market Fund and Private Placement data. EPFR also provides investors with security-level insights through its China Share Class Allocations, Stock Barometer, and Fixed Income Flows and Holdings datasets. About EPFR: EPFR provides fund flows and asset allocation data to financial institutions around the world. Tracking over 145,500 traditional and alternative funds domiciled globally with more than $50 trillion in total assets, we deliver a complete picture of institutional and retail investor flows as well as fund manager allocations driving global markets. Our market moving data services include daily, weekly, and monthly equity in addition to fixed income fund flows and monthly fund allocations by country, sector, and industry. For more information, please visit https://financialintelligence.informa.com/epfr. About Montagu: Montagu is a leading mid-market private equity firm, committed to finding and growing businesses that make the world work. With deep experience in healthcare and the tech-enablement of essential businesses, Montagu brings proven growth capabilities to help companies achieve their ambitions and unlock the full potential of their business. Montagu is committed to the mid-market, with a specialism in carve-out transactions and other first-time buyout investments. ESG forms an integral part of its strategy, and its commitment to sustainable investment is fully integrated into its investment and value-creation process. Montagu partners with companies with enterprise values between 150 million and 2 billion and has 10bn assets under management. For additional information on Montagu, visit www.montagu.com. MEDIA CONTACT: Zach Allegretti, JConnelly 973-850-7341 [email protected] SOURCE EPFR Taiwan's largest expo yet highlights Taiwan's culture, innovative technologies, and the benefits of a Taiwan-US relationship NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Taiwan Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs (BOFT), and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), today announced the first-ever Taiwan Expo USA, an event to showcase Taiwan's leading technologies, rich culture, vibrant arts, and natural landscapes. This expo aims to highlight the US and Taiwan's robust and buoyant economic ties, including seamless collaboration on building up the resilience of the global supply chain, and to bolster bilateral economic, cultural, and people-to-people connections, especially in tech industries that will drive our future. Taiwan Expo USA 2022 The event is set to kick off from October 12 to 14 in Washington DC, at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, and will revolve around seven major themes: 5G & Smart Cities, Smart Vehicles, Healthcare, Metaverse, Taiwan Excellence, Culture, and Tourism & Food. Each theme will have a dedicated pavilion, near 100 exhibitors on-site, providing networking opportunities for people across the globe to connect and innovate for future generations to come. The companies in attendance will display Taiwan's leading products and innovations, highlight how these products can create a more sustainable future, and how the US can be a partner in these initiatives. "We are thrilled to host the first-ever Taiwan Expo USA," said James C. F. Huang, Chairman of TAITRA. "Taiwan Expo USA is a seed of hope that we want to plant, grow and blossom in the lush land of the free, the USA. Together, let us create a better world and a more sustainable future through U.S.-Taiwan cooperation. We hope to gather a large crowd of experts to connect, share ideas and pave the path for future generations." In addition, there will be two forums the Smart Mobility forum and Medical Innovation forum. Each forum will have highly regarded thought leaders speak and present during moderated panels. Attendees are welcome to listen in on the panels and connect with speakers onsite. Taiwan Expo US Event Details: October 12 : The opening ceremony will be held at 10 am , followed by VIP tours of the pavilions, a welcome reception, the Smart Mobility Forum, Medical Innovation forum, and unique dance performances by the Diabolo Dance Theatre. The day will be closed out with a happy hour at 3:30pm , and an art show by Lei Sheng Art Group. The opening ceremony will be held at , followed by VIP tours of the pavilions, a welcome reception, the Smart Mobility Forum, Medical Innovation forum, and unique dance performances by the Diabolo Dance Theatre. The day will be closed out with a happy hour at , and an art show by Lei Sheng Art Group. October 13 : The second day of the event will feature several unique dance performances by the Diabolo Dance Theatre and a fitness dance party. The fitness dance party will provide a dynamic, exciting, and effective fitness workout! Guests can also end their day with a happy hour featuring Taiwan's best beverages. The second day of the event will feature several unique dance performances by the Diabolo Dance Theatre and a fitness dance party. The fitness dance party will provide a dynamic, exciting, and effective fitness workout! Guests can also end their day with a happy hour featuring best beverages. October 14 : The third and final day of the event will be the shortest of all days, kicking off at 10 am and wrapping up at 3 pm . This will be the last chance for attendees to check out the Diabolo Dance Theatre and pavilions on site. *The pavilions will be available all three days for attendees to visit. For more information, please visit www.taiwanexpousa.com/en/index.html About Bureau of Foreign Trade The Bureau of Foreign Trade is tasked with developing international trade policies, trade promotion, as well as import-export management for the Republic of China. In order to strengthen the collaboration with global partners and regional development, the Bureau's range of activities include: promoting external economic and trade cooperation through multilateral forum, promoting participation in regional economic integration, enhancing bilateral economic and trade relations with various countries, and expanding global and New Southbound country markets by strengthening export momentum. About TAITRA Founded in 1970, TAITRA is Taiwan's foremost nonprofit trade promoting organization. Sponsored by the government and industry organizations, TAITRA assists enterprises to expand their global reach. Headquartered in Taipei, TAITRA has a team of 1,300 specialists and operates 5 local offices in Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan and Kaohsiung as well as 63 branches worldwide. Together with Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC) and Taiwan Trade Center (TTC), TAITRA has formed a global network dedicated to promoting world trade. Media Contact Amanda Grover [email protected] 917-750-3892 SOURCE Taiwan External Trade Development Council 'Katakataka': Pimentel says of PCSO Grand Lotto jackpot result Pimentel seeks probe of PCSO Lotto Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III is mulling the filing of a resolution to audit and investigate the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office's gaming activities, including the Filipinos' most favorite lotto games, to ensure their integrity and protect millions of Filipino bettors. This as he called "strange and unusual" the result of the PCSO Grand Lotto draw on Saturday wherein 433 bettors won the P236 million jackpot. "Katakataka yung result na yan. Yung 433 ang mananalo, supposed to be ang chances mo diyan is 1 in how many millions. So ibig sabihin, ganun kahirap dapat tamaan yan and then to say na 433 ang tumama, there is something suspicious," Pimentel said in an interview over radio station DZBB on Sunday. "Talagang marami po ang nagtaka, na medyo nagulat because statistically speaking, this is a very rare event. Let us take this opportunity to investigate so that ang purpose natin is to ensure the integrity of our lotto games," said the 1990 Bar topnotcher and also a Mathematics gold medalist during his school days. "We have to look at the entire system of our lotto games. This is a good chance kasi maraming nagtatanong." he stressed. Pimentel said he will file a resolution to investigate the matter. "I will file a resolution, because this is my concern, these lotto games are authorized by the Republic of the Philippines. Therefore, we need to maintain and protect the integrity of these gambling games that we have authorized," Pimentel said. He said he will seek the opinion of statisticians and mathematicians regarding results of PCSO draws. "Tanungin natin ang PCSO kung mga lucky pick (LP) ba itong mga winners na ito, that means system-generated yung number nung tumaya pero therefore there is nothing random about their LP kasi ibig sabihin nun binigay nila sa 400 plus katao, umulit-ulit. Millions po ang combination diyan," he said. MELVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AIP Publishing, a leading not-for-profit scholarly publisher in the physical sciences, has reached a three-year Read & Publish agreement with Universiteitsbibliotheken & Koninklijke Bibliotheek (UKB), the Dutch association of university libraries and the Royal Library of the Netherlands. The agreement, which runs until the end of 2024, includes eight UKB member institutions: Eindhoven University of Technology, Maastricht University, Radboud University, TU Delft, University of Amsterdam, University of Twente, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and the University of Groningen. Researchers at these institutions are now able to publish Open Access with AIP Publishing without directly incurring article processing charges (APCs) in 26 journals and gain unlimited reading access to 28 journals. "We are excited to collaborate with UKB in this agreement," said Penelope Lewis, AIP Publishing's Chief Publishing Officer. "UKB are key partners in supporting the transition to Open Access in the physical sciences and across the research community as a whole." ABOUT UKB UKB is a partnership of Dutch University Libraries and The Royal Library of the Netherlands (Koninklijke Bibliotheek). UKB is committed to supporting and accelerating scientific progress, by developing and managing universal and sustainable access to knowledge for everyone. UKB is working towards open knowledge, anytime, anyplace, whilst retaining scope for local colour. ABOUT AIP PUBLISHING AIP Publishing's mission is to advance, promote, and serve the physical sciences for the benefit of humanity by breaking barriers to open, equitable research communication and empowering researchers to accelerate global progress. AIP Publishing is a wholly owned not-for-profit subsidiary of the American Institute of Physics (AIP) and supports the charitable, scientific, and educational purposes of AIP through scholarly publishing activities on its behalf and on behalf of our publishing partners. SOURCE AIP Publishing DENVER, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumen Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: LUMN) (the "Company" or "Lumen") announced today the acceptance and initial settlement of its and its indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries' previously-announced cash tender offers (the "Tender Offers"), relating to any and all of (i) Lumen's 6.750% Senior Notes, Series W, due 2023, 7.500% Senior Notes, Series Y, due 2024, 5.625% Senior Notes, Series X, due 2025, 7.200% Senior Notes, Series D, due 2025, 5.125% Senior Notes due 2026, 6.875% Debentures, Series G, due 2028 and 5.375% Senior Notes due 2029; (ii) Embarq Florida, Inc.'s 7.125% Senior Notes due 2023 and 8.375% Senior Notes due 2025; and (iii) Qwest Capital Funding, Inc.'s 6.875% Senior Notes due 2028 and 7.750% Senior Notes due 2031 (collectively, the "Notes"). The Offerors purchased all the Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to the Expiration Time for approximately $2,867,396,918 in cash, plus Accrued Interest. The aggregate principal amount of the Notes purchased on October 3, 2022 was approximately $3,030,688,000. On the Guaranteed Delivery Settlement Date, October 5, 2022, Lumen expects to purchase up to an additional $40,673,000 aggregate principal amount of the Notes for approximately $36,677,133 in cash, plus Accrued Interest. The Tender Offers were only made pursuant to the Offer to Purchase (the "Offer to Purchase"), including Notice of Guaranteed Delivery, dated September 26, 2022. Capitalized terms used in this release but not otherwise defined have the meaning given in the Offer to Purchase. This press release is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any Notes in the Tender Offers. About Lumen Lumen Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: LUMN) is guided by our belief that humanity is at its best when technology advances the way we live and work. With approximately 400,000 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. Lumen and Lumen Technologies are registered trademarks of Lumen Technologies LLC in the United States. Lumen Technologies LLC is a wholly-owned affiliate of Lumen Technologies, Inc. Forward Looking Statements Except for historical and factual information, the matters set forth in this release and other of Lumen's oral or written statements identified by words such as "estimates," "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "plans," "intends," and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and are based on current expectations only, are inherently speculative, and are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Lumen's control. Actual events and results may differ materially from those anticipated, estimated, projected or implied by Lumen in those statements if one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if underlying assumptions prove incorrect. Lumen undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason, whether as a result of new information, future events or developments, changed circumstances, or otherwise. Furthermore, any information about the applicable Offeror's intentions contained in any forward-looking statements reflects such Offeror's intentions as of the date of such forward-looking statement, and is based upon, among other things, existing regulatory, technological, industry, competitive, economic and market conditions, and their assumptions as of such date. Lumen may change its intentions, strategies or plans (including the plans expressed herein) without notice at any time and for any reason. SOURCE Lumen Technologies, Inc. Comprehensive Dental Care clinic with all dentistry under one roof welcomes Dr. Frederick Canby as an Endodontist for their Frederick Maryland and Urbana Maryland locations. FREDERICK, Md., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PearlFection Dentistry is pleased to announce that Dr. Frederick ("Fritz") Canby has joined the practice as our second Endodontist. Dr. Canby is a board-certified specialist with decades of diverse and valuable experience in general dentistry and Endodontics. Dr. Canby joins Dr. Pratik Patel to become the second outstanding Endodontist on the PearlFection staff. Dr. Canby is originally from the Washington DC area. After receiving his bachelors degree from Colby College in Waterville, ME and completing additional studies at Phillips University in Marburg, West Germany, he earned his DDS degree from Georgetown University. His successful career as a Navy Dentist included a stint onboard the USS Missouri as Dental Department Division Head, distinguished service during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and two years at the Navy Dental Center in Long Beach, CA. During this time, Dr. Canby developed an interest in the treatment of diseases and conditions related to the interior or "pulp" of the tooth. This led to a Masters degree and Certificate in Endodontics from Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago, IL. After completing his advanced studies, Dr. Canby returned to the greater DC Metropolitan area where he established a successful private practice, treating thousands of patients from West Virginia, Northern Virginia, and Maryland. Simultaneously maintaining his commission in the US Navy Reserve while rising to the rank of Captain, he completed his final tour of duty on the Medical Staff, Headquarters 3rd Fleet, Point Loma, CA before retiring from the Navy in 2019. Outside of the office, Dr. Canby enjoys spending quality time with his family. While his wife is a regulatory Pharmacist at the Veterans Administration in Martinsburg WV, his children continue to pursue their own rewarding careers. His daughter studies Dentistry at California Northstate University in Sacramento, CA and his son, a US Army reservist, studies Law at the University of Richmond School of Law in Virginia. "The addition of a 2nd highly competent endodontist to our team, ensures that the vision of providing the highest quality dental care, all under one roof, in a customer service focused environment, with minimal wait and exceptional results, continues to be realized. I'm so pleased that Dr Canby has joined out team," said Stewart Stringer, General Manager Pearlfection Dentistry, Frederick Maryland. The addition of Dr. Canby to the PearlFection team is emblematic of a commitment to comprehensive dental service with all dentistry under one roof, where the very best team of dentists, specialists, and support staff collaborate to address the unique needs of each patient. Dr. Canby and Dr. Patel have been provided with advanced facilities and Endodontic equipment, including specialized X-ray machines, microscopes, and radiographs to obtain clear and accurate images of interior tooth structures. As "emergency dentists" they are called upon to treat patients experiencing severe pain and are adept at administering medication including topical numbing treatments to reduce tooth pain and improve patient comfort. In addition to their well-earned distinction as tooth saving specialists, Endodontists are recognized as experts in root canal therapy. When this treatment is completed, a small hole is drilled in the outer tooth surface, giving the Endodontist an access point to the inner chamber from which all injured or infected pulp material can be removed. Modern dental tools and practices have made root canal therapy much less invasive, with an extremely high success rate. As an Endodontist, Dr. Canby also performs apicoectomies, pulpotomies, internal bleaching and other advanced procedures used to treat and remove infected tissue from the interior of the tooth. The addition of Dr. Canby to the Frederick Maryland and Urbana Maryland PearlFection Dentistry offices has been welcomed by the exceptional, well-rounded team that also includes four General Dentists, Cosmetic Dentists, two Periodontists, two Prosthodontists, two Oral Surgeons, one Orthodontists, one Pediatric Dentists, an additional Endodontist, and a highly dedicated group of Hygienists, Dental Assistants, and office personnel. About PearlFection Dentistry: PearlFection Dentistry has been meeting the dental needs of Frederick, MD since 1977 by striving to ensure patients get top-quality dental treatment while enjoying a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. PearlFection is currently welcoming new patients, and most forms of dental insurance are accepted. Call today to schedule an appointment with our friendly patient coordinator at 301-663-5550 or 301-831-8303 (Urbana), or visit our websites: www.pearlfectiondentistry.com or www.pearlfectionurbana.com to learn more about PearlFection Dentistry or make an appointment online. Contact: Stewart Stringer ***@pearlfectiondentistry.com 301-663-5550 Photos: https://www.prlog.org/12934955 Press release distributed by PRLog SOURCE PearlFection Dentistry TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V): LIT Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE): OAY3 OTCQB Venture Market (OTC): PNXLF VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. (TSXV: LIT) (FSE: OAY3) (OTC: PNXLF), ("Argentina Lithium" or the "Company") reports positive lithium brine values from the second diamond drill hole at its Rincon West Project in Salta Province, Argentina. The Rincon West project covers 2,951.5 hectares of the salar basin, located west of the adjacent Rincon Project owned by Rio Tinto. The property is currently permitted for up to 9 exploration drill holes. The fourth exploration hole is currently in final steps to completion. The brine analytical results from the second hole have been received and are reported below. "The results of the second exploration hole demonstrate remarkably consistent lithium grades, when compared to the first. RW-DDH-002 results reveal an impressive concentrated brine aquifer, tested with packer sampling over ~77% of the interval between 182 and 305 metre depths, with lithium values ranging from 337 to 367 mg/litre. Additional concentrated brines with lower lithium contents were also recovered from above this 118 metre interval. Drilling thus far validates that the adjacent lithium salar extends under our properties, with consistently high lithium grades. The drill program will continue as planned with the aim of delineating an initial lithium mineral resource." stated Miles Rideout, V.P. of Exploration. The results of the brine analyses and the respective intervals from which brine was recovered are shown in Table 1. Drill collar information is presented in Table 2. Map 1 presents a map of the Rincon West property showing the positions of the four initial exploration holes, including RW-DDH-002 and the previously announced RW-DDH-001 (see July 13, 2022 News Release). Exploration drilling is ongoing. The map presents the completed drill locations overlaid on the conductive zones delineated with geophysics (see May 2, 2022 News Release). Table 1: Interval data and results of brines analyses for lithium, potassium, and magnesium for drill hole RW-DDH-002 Sample interval (m) Sample method Li K Mg Density top bottom Thickness (mg/litre) (g/ml) 112 155 43 single packer 247 4266 2196 1.144 182 207 25 single packer 361 6827 3050 1.2 208 239 31 single packer 337 6503 2844 1.19 255 267 12 single packer 366 7103 3053 1.204 287 293 6 single packer 362 7036 3028 1.21 296 305 9 single packer 367 7068 3047 1.21 61.3 65.2 3.9 double packer 22 323 256 1.016 67.3 71.2 3.9 double packer 68 1092 1029 1.05 154.3 158.2 3.9 double packer 122 2425 1093 1.076 175.3 179.2 3.9 double packer 243 4462 2007 1.146 217.3 221.2 3.9 double packer 348 6797 2956 1.19 *Drill hole RW-DDH-002 was drilled vertically to a depth of 323m below surface; the salar strata are believed to be flat lying resulting in reported intervals approximating true thickness Technical Details Hole RW-DDH-002 was executed with diamond drilling (HQ-size), permitting the extraction of core samples of the salar basin formations and recovery of brine samples, where possible. Drilling was conducted between July 7 and July 22, stopping at 323 metres depth in igneous basement rock units. Final sampling and lining the hole with 2" diameter PVC filters and casing were completed by July 25, 2022. Drilling was carried out by Salta-based AGV Falcon Drilling SRL, under the supervision of Argentina Lithium's geologists. Table 2: RW-DDH-002 Collar Information Hole ID East North Elevation Azimuth Dip Depth UTM Zone 19S (WGS84) (m) (deg.) (deg.) (m) RW-DDH-002 682198 7337700 3761 n/a 90 323 Brine sampling was conducted using a single packer sampling unit during drilling. Upon completion of the drilling, selected intervals of the hole were re-sampled with a double packer system, permitting isolation of certain intervals. The packer sampling method allows the collection of brine samples at specific depths while sealing the hole at the top and bottom of the interval. As anticipated by the exploration team, fresh water layers were found to overly the much denser concentrated brine aquifer. Recovered brine samples indicate relatively fresh water in the interval 61.3 to 65.2 metres depth, transitioning to brackish in the interval 67.3 to 71.2 m depth. Brine concentration increased below this level, as reported in Table 1. A number of additional packer sampling attempts from intervals outside of those reported in Table 1 did not return a sufficient quantity of brine considered representative for analysis. No casing was required during drilling. Poorly consolidated gravels were logged from the surface to 23 m depth, where sandy sediments began. Black and dark sands were logged to 66 m depth, at which point sulphates appear, likely indicating the presence of the salar formation. Sandy units with bands of sulphates and gravels were logged from 66 m to 90 m depth, entering a silt layer logged between 90 m and 92 m. Dark sands with abundant layers of clays and occasional gravels were logged from 92 m to 154.25 m depths. Dark sands with abundant interbedding of sulphates continued from 154.25 m to 199 m depth. Sands with intercalated gravels were logged between 199 m and 236 m, followed by gravels logged to 245 m depth. At 245 m, the drill entered aplite (fine-grained igneous rock), displaying varying degrees of fracturing. Sulphates were observed from 66 m depth through the sediment units and within some fractures in the aplite. Metamorphosed quartzite was encountered from 293m, the upper 10 m with significant fracturing. The hole was stopped in metamorphosed quartzite at 323 m depth. All core samples recovered in drilling are retained for logging and are available for subsequent laboratory evaluation of factors such as total and effective porosity, permeability and other measurable characteristics of the aquifer formation. Analyses and QA/QC Samples of brine were submitted for analysis to Alex Stewart International Argentina S.A. ("Alex Stewart"), the local subsidiary of Alex Stewart International, an ISO 9001:2008 certified laboratory, with ISO 17025:2005 certification for the analysis of lithium, potassium and other elements. Alex Stewart employed Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry ("ICP-OES") as the analytical technique for the primary constituents of interest, including boron, calcium, potassium, lithium, and magnesium. Measurements in the field included pH, electrical conductivity, temperature and density. The quality of sample analytical results was controlled and assessed with a protocol of blank, duplicate and reference standard samples included within the sample sequence. In addition, 11 samples including 1 blank and two standards were submitted for re-analysis at Alex Stewart. The blank (2), duplicate (1) and re-submitted samples (8) analysed at Alex Stewart all reported in the acceptable range. A low-grade and medium-grade reference standard were included in the initial and second submission to Alex Stewart. The low-grade reference standard analyses were within the acceptable range of 2 standard deviations (SD) and with less than 2% relative percent difference (RPD); the medium-grade standard returned results less than 3 SD, but with a low RPD (1.75% and -3.25%). As well, two duplicate check samples were submitted to SGS Argentina and also analyzed by ICP-OES. Initial results were significantly higher than expected and the samples were re-run in addition to a low-grade standard sample. The lithium grades from the re-analysis of the check samples correlated well with the grades reported by Alex Stewart; the standard sample, however, returned a grade 15% below the acceptable lithium value for the standard. Further investigation to determine the cause of this standard failure is ongoing. Rincon West Project The Rincon West Project comprises the following properties: Villanoveno II and Demasia Villanoveno II, totaling 2491 hectares, are held under an option whereby the Company can earn a 100% interest, as described in the Company's September 28, 2021 News Release. Argentina Lithium has also purchased the 460.5 hectare Riconcita II property, adjacent to Villanoveno II, (see August 25, 2022 News Release). Corporate Update: New Stock Option Plan and Equity Incentive Plan On August 12, 2022, the Company adopted a 10% rolling stock option plan (the "Stock Option Plan") and a restricted share unit, performance share unit and deferred share unit plan (the "Equity Incentive Plan"). The number of common shares of the Company reserved for issuance under the Stock Option Plan cannot exceed 10% of the number of common shares of the Company that are outstanding on each applicable grant date, and 7,416,012 common shares of the Company are reserved for issuance under the Equity Incentive Plan. Qualified Person David Terry, Ph.D., P.Geo. is the Company's Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101. Dr. Terry is responsible for oversight of the Company's early-stage exploration at the Rincon West property. The disclosure in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Terry. About Argentina Lithium Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp is focused on acquiring high quality lithium projects in Argentina and advancing them toward production in order to meet the growing global demand from the battery sector. The management group has a long history of success in the resource sector of Argentina and has assembled a first-rate team of experts to acquire and advance the best lithium properties in the "Lithium Triangle". The Company is a member of the Grosso Group, a resource management group that has pioneered exploration in Argentina since 1993. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Nikolaos Cacos" _______________________________ Nikolaos Cacos, President, CEO and Director Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including, without limitation, statements about the Company's plans for its mineral properties; the Company's business strategy, plans and outlooks; the future financial or operating performance of the Company; and future exploration and operating plans are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and, even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of COVID-19; risks and uncertainties related to the ability to obtain, amend, or maintain licenses, permits, or surface rights; risks associated with technical difficulties in connection with mining activities; and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Readers are encouraged to refer to the Company's public disclosure documents for a more detailed discussion of factors that may impact expected future results. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, unless required pursuant to applicable laws. We advise U.S. investors that the SEC's mining guidelines strictly prohibit information of this type in documents filed with the SEC. U.S. investors are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on our properties. SOURCE Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. Developed specifically for Southern California residents, the new plan is now available for 2023 coverage PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time, a high-quality, affordable, and comprehensive new offering from Providence Medicare Advantage Plans is available to residents of Orange County, California. West coast, not-for-profit Providence Health Assurance (PHA) will provide residents with a zero dollar premium plan, with the added option of having coordinated care as part of the Providence Health System. Providence Medicare Advantage Plans gives members access to award-winning Providence hospitals, clinics, and physicians in the region while also maintaining the flexibility of an open, local network. Eligible Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in Providence Medicare Advantage Plans during the 2023 Annual Enrollment Period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. "We are thrilled to bring Providence Medicare Advantage Plans to the residents of Southern California," said Don Antonucci, CEO of Providence Health Plan. "Our promise to members and patients know me, care for me, ease my way shines through in our quality coverage in Orange County. In addition to the competitive plan, our large network of trusted physicians, hospitals and clinics provide members with exceptional care. Through this expansion and our continued growth into new markets, we aim to serve even more members by providing high-quality, easy-to-access, and affordable coverage." As PHA considered entering the Southern California market, the focus was on listening to and better understanding the residents of the community and their specific healthcare needs. Through a commissioned survey with YouGov, PHA found the following about Southern California residents aged 55 or older: 50% experience moderate to severe stress, mainly attributable to financial worries, current events, and daily responsibilities, calling for increased access to mental health resources Medicare/Medicare Advantage beneficiaries want dental, vision, and hearing coverage offered in their plans, highlighting the desire for a comprehensive offering When designing the plan for Southern California, PHA incorporated the needs of Southern Californians found in the survey, including the call for greater access to mental health resources. Providence Medicare Advantage Plans offers expanded mental health coverage, including no out-of-pocket payment for outpatient mental health and video provider visits. Additional benefits include a $500 Flex dental card, vision, coverage for hearing aids, chiropractic and acupuncture services, transportation, post-discharge meals, access to a nurse advice line, fitness center memberships, health education classes, a personal emergency response system, and wigs for those undergoing cancer treatment. "Keeping community health at the forefront, Providence Medicare Advantage Plans is bringing an exciting offering to Southern California," said Kevin Manemann, chief executive of Providence South. "Medicare-eligible residents will have access to an intentional and competitive Medicare Advantage Plan while continuing to receive compassionate, high-quality care from the Providence providers they know and trust." To learn more about Providence plans, please visit ProvidenceTrueHealth.com/OC. Disclaimer: Providence Health Assurance is an HMO, HMOPOS and HMO SNP with Medicare and Oregon Health Plan contracts. Enrollment in Providence Health Assurance depends on contract renewal. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. H9047_2023PHA103_M About Providence Health Assurance Providence Health Assurance (PHA) and its affiliates are an integral part of a 160-year-old not-for-profit health care collective that has set the health and well-being standard for the communities we serve. Providence Health Assurance provides high quality, affordable coverage to members via plans for small and large groups, self-insured plan sponsors, Medicare, and Medicaid beneficiaries, as well as individuals and families. We offer a range of benefits including comprehensive health care, 24/7 access to telehealth visits, behavioral health resources and personalized health coaching. SOURCE Providence Health Assurance Hires Louise Jordan DipWSET as new Director of Communications NAPA, Calif., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Quintessential, a family-owned and operated import, marketing and sales company that exclusively represents family-owned wineries, is pleased to welcome Louise Jordan DipWSET as its new director of communications. Jordan will work closely with Steve Sr. and Dennis Kreps, owners of Quintessential, to elevate and integrate the company's public relations and marketing capabilities. Louise Jordan DipWSET, new Director of Communications for Quintessential "Louise brings with her two decades of global wine and spirits experience across multiple sectors such as sales, public relations, brand management and marketing for more than 100 brands and 13 wine and spirits regions. This gives her a 360-degree approach for creating innovative and impactful communication strategies and programming," says Dennis. Jordan began her career as a sales representative with Frederick Wildman & Sons in New York City. She also sold wine at the renown Astor Wines & Spirits, and managed wine programming at the International Wine Center while also earning her WSET Diploma with merit before returning to Wildman as the European estates brand manager. She has more than 16 years of public relations and marketing expertise with prominent agencies such as Sopexa USA and Teuwen Communications with their international client portfolios. At E. & J. Gallo Winery, she managed public relations and trade advertising. Prior to joining Quintessential, Jordan ran her own wine and spirits communications company, Last Drop Consulting, working with clients such as Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits to help build its fine wine brands. "We were drawn to Louise's standout achievements in aligning communications strategy with highly creative ideas that yield impressive results," said Dennis. "We look forward to leveraging her experience for our brands." Such projects include creating a global branding and communications platform for the Alsace wine region, winning the PRNews Media Relations Elite Award for the "Changing the Conversation" campaign for Bordeaux Wines, raising awareness for Gallo's DTC wineries through the company's largest digital campaign with VinePair and launching its first-ever "IG Lives" platform. To contact Louise Jordan DipWSET, please email [email protected] or call 707.266.5231. About Quintessential: Headquartered in Napa, Calif., Quintessential is an import, marketing and sales company exclusively representing family-owned wineries. Owned and operated by father and son, Steve Sr. and Dennis Kreps, Quintessential is a leading fine wine importer in the United States, and an early champion of multi-generational producers that value authentic expressions of celebrated terroir from 50 wineries around the world. Quintessential's portfolio of 50 wineries across the globe: Argentina (Bodegas Bianchi, Pascual Toso); Australia (3 Rings, Kay Brothers, Paringa, Vintage Longbottom); Chile (Matetic Vineyards, TerraPura); France (Andres Brunel, Cachette, Champagne Palmer & Co, Chateau Ferry Lacombe, Gustave Lorentz, La Chapelle du Berry, Les Vins Georges Duboeuf, Maison Bouey); Hungary (Count Karolyi); Italy (Ascevi Luwa, Attilio Ghisolfi, Bel Colle, Cortonesi, Luca Bosio, Tenuta Carobbio, Tropical, Truffle Hunter, Vino dei Fratelli); New Zealand (Forrest, Rongopai); Portugal (Casa Relvas, Quinta do Vallado, Vila Nova); Spain (Bodegas Muriel, Conde de los Andes, Pazo Cilleiro, Vina Eguia); South Africa (Simonsig Estate); United States (New York: Anthony Road ); (California: Atlas Peak, Eponymous, Foppiano Vineyards, Geyser Peak, Ironstone Vineyards, Joseph Thomas, Leaping Horse Vineyards, Lucas & Lewellen Estate, Obsession, Outlot, Samuel Charles, Two Angels, XYZin) Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Phone: 707.226.8300 SOURCE Quintessential New Net Zero Marketplace connects buyers with ecopreneurs in a trusted, transparent carbon credit platform to scale climate-positive impact Carbon credit providers Climate Impact Partners, Cloverly, Lune, Pachama, Native, A Public Benefit Corporation, Respira International, and South Pole; third-party rating companies Calyx Global and Sylvera; and curated climate portfolio provider CO2.com join us as inaugural partners Ushers in a new era of carbon credit market transparency by aggregating third-party ratings and pricing for projects SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), the global leader in CRM, today introduced Net Zero Marketplace , a trusted platform that makes carbon credit purchases simple and transparent, allowing organizations to accelerate climate positive impact at scale. The global voluntary carbon market is estimated to grow to $50B by 2030 as many organizations race to achieve their net zero commitments. Yet, organizations may not always know how to build a carbon credit portfolio or even where to start. What's more, the path to purchasing carbon credits is complex, and buyers want to trust that the carbon credit projects have a positive impact. Net Zero Marketplace, built on Salesforce's Commerce Cloud , connects buyers and ecopreneurs environmentally-focused entrepreneurs who lead and drive climate action worldwide offering a catalog of third-party rated carbon credits and a seamless ecommerce experience for purchasing them. Net Zero Marketplace also features a climate action hub where anyone businesses or individuals can learn about climate issues. "The uptick in extreme weather events shows that no one is spared from climate change we need smart climate solutions now," said Suzanne DiBianca, EVP and Chief Impact Officer, Salesforce. "Businesses aiming to achieve long-term emission reductions can complement their efforts with high-quality carbon credits. Net Zero Marketplace brings together Salesforce's values , technology , and commitment to ecopreneurs to accelerate climate action." Quality carbon credits through Net Zero Marketplace can complement long-term emissions reductions We are at an all-of-the-above moment in the climate crisis. Carbon credits are one important tool that when made and used well can play a critical role in an organization's comprehensive climate strategy. "The first step of anyone's net zero journey is clearly reducing emissions. But we now know that reducing self-generated emissions is not going to be enough," said Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary, UN Convention on Climate Change and co-host, Outrage and Optimism . "We're at a moment in the climate emergency in which we need to put everything on the table. Carbon credits are a way to incentivize further emissions reductions by placing a price on carbon and making an impact now, while other climate efforts are also underway." Carbon credit projects go through a series of independent verifications against global standards. If they pass the verification process, the projects can issue carbon credits that can then be sold. Projects can include forest conservation, tree planting, wind farms, solar cookstoves, or better farming methods. Partners bring innovation, scale, and ratings to trusted platform Finding and verifying a carbon credit's quality can be difficult and time-consuming. Net Zero Marketplace eliminates the uncertainty by aggregating and publishing third-party ratings for projects not locked behind paywalls or account registrations. This level of transparency helps empower organizations to determine which carbon credits are best for them. New partners announced today include ecopreneurs who bring innovative, diverse projects to support decarbonization and trusted ratings companies with expertise in identifying projects that deliver real climate benefits. "Sylvera and Salesforce share the same mission of bringing transparency and trust to carbon markets to drive real climate impact. Quality carbon projects are a powerful and necessary tool to fight climate change, but reliable data and investment is needed to unlock their full potential," said Sam Gill, co-founder and COO, Sylvera. "With Sylvera's ratings, Net Zero Marketplace users can discover projects that deliver real climate benefits." "Partnering with Salesforce to create this Marketplace will turbocharge climate action and empower every company large and small to take responsibility for its emissions. We are proud to provide high quality offsets to clients who understand the value of compensating for their impact on the environment," said Renat Heuberger, CEO, South Pole. "There is no time to waste, let's take action today." At launch, Net Zero Marketplace will offer nearly 90 projects across 11 countries throughout Africa, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Buyers will be able to see project descriptions, alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals , and, for many, official third-party ratings. Net Zero Marketplace offers carbon credit purchase to any organization Any organization can access Net Zero Marketplace and buy carbon credits. For organizations currently using Net Zero Cloud , Salesforce's carbon accounting solution, the credits are also easily integrated into the platform and will be tracked against their current emissions. Buyers will also get updates on project progress, which will encourage reinvestment. More information: Net Zero Marketplace will be available for carbon credit purchases in the United States starting in October 2022 , and will be expanding to additional markets in 2023. starting in , and will be expanding to additional markets in 2023. Learn more about Salesforce's carbon credit journey . . Learn how Salesforce continues to advocate for ambitious climate policy with newly-published nature policy priorities . . New Salesforce research reveals that 82% of employees want to help their company reach climate goals. reveals that 82% of employees want to help their company reach climate goals. Read about three Salesforce employees who changed careers to support sustainability efforts. About Salesforce Salesforce, the global CRM leader, empowers companies of every size and industry to digitally transform and create a 360 view of their customers. For more information about Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), visit: www.salesforce.com . SOURCE Salesforce Company will invest around US$ 400 million in the first phase of three campuses in the Latin American country. Strategically located, they will have a combined capacity of over 200MW, equivalent to more than three times the currently available capacity in the country SAO PAULO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Scala Data Centers, the leading Latin American platform of sustainable data centers in the Hyperscale market, received the environmental license to build the largest data center campus in Chile. Located in Lampa, Santiago metropolitan area, the campus will have 120MW of total capacity and foresees an initial delivery of 30MW. Scheduled to start operations in the first quarter of 2024, Scala's new data center will be born to support a Hyperscale client. Lampa Campus in Chile: the largest to be built in the country In September 2022, the company started the construction of the first data center campus in the municipality of Curauma, Valparaiso area, with a total capacity of 45MW. The first building is expected to be completed in March 2023 and is anchored in a long-term contract with a Hyperscale client. The company has also started the executive project of its third data center in the country, in Santiago, with a total capacity of 80MW, starting with the installation of a FastDeploy building, a Scala proprietary design and construction methodology that allows data centers's deploy in up to 50% less time when compared to the traditional model. Scala's three campuses in Chile will result in initial investments of around US$ 400 million and will deliver a combined capacity of over 200MW, contributing to the country's sustainable development. All data centers will use 100% renewable and certified energy, in line with the company's portfolio and are expected to generate around 1,000 direct and indirect jobs in the country. The Operational team recruited locally will undergo complementary technical training at the company's Training Center in Sao Paulo, Brazil. In addition to technical scope, these new employees will benefit from a cultural exchange with Scala's Brazilian team. In addition to the two campuses in Santiago, the choice of the location of Curauma is strategic, as it is in the Valparaiso region where the submarine cable Humboldt will be launched. With about 15 thousand kilometers of fiber, Humboldt connect, for the first time, the Latin America to the Asia-Pacific region. "The construction of a data center close to the submarine cable arrival site will guarantee unprecedented scale and quality of connectivity between Latin America, Asia and Oceania, massively contributing to enabling the region's digital infrastructure", explains Marcos Peigo, CEO of Scala. "And in a scenario in which 5G accelerates the deployment of various services and applications that use high volume of data and require low latency, such as the metaverse, Internet of Things (IoT), telemedicine, autonomous cars, among others, it is something even more expressive", adds the executive. Scala's projects will be led by the company's Center of Excellence in Engineering (CoE), an unprecedented initiative in the segment. With more than 150 engineers, CoE is responsible for all activities related to the construction of a data center, from the land choice, planning, design, construction, and commissioning, which accelerates delivery to clients and brings gains in scale, control, and greater project visibility. According to IDC, organizations' spending on IT infrastructure in Chile will increase by 12% between 2021 and 2024, driven, among others, by the data center ecosystem. In the same period, the consultancy predicts an increase in cloud spending of around 34.6%. This scenario is due to the 5G arrival, digital transformation in the mining industry, acceleration of connectivity and advancement of the streaming market. About Scala Data Centers Scala Data Centers is the leading Latin American platform of sustainable data centers in the hyperscale market. Headquartered in Brazil and founded by DigitalBridge, it was developed to meet and exceed the growing demand for digital access in Latin America. Scala has a highly qualified team of over 500 professionals and applies a flexible and innovative approach to providing exceptional quality colocation services to hyperscale clients, cloud-based software and service providers, and large enterprises. We customize state-of-the-art solutions for each client in the construction of the latest generation data centers, with high availability, the best energy efficiency rates, and superior density. All this allied to the best sustainability practices guided by our ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) program. For more information, visit www.scaladatacenters.com. SOURCE Scala Data Centers VANCOUVER, B.C., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Scope Carbon Corp. ("Scope" or the "Company") a pioneering carbon mapping technology company, is pleased to announce that the Company has now entered into a product development agreement (the "Product Development Agreement") with Marsman Limited ("Marsman"), a British Virgin Islands development company, to assist in the advancement of the Company's self-learning image recognition technology (the "Technology"). Sean Prescott, the Company's Non-Executive Chairman and initial developer of the Technology, will be leading the software development in collaboration with Marsman. It is anticipated that the Product Development Agreement will enable the Company to create a unique user experience with a high-end product design and decrease the required time to develop the Technology. This will allow the Company more time to consider the further innovations and also ensure that the Company is creating a user friendly experience. Scope, with the assistance of Marsman, intends to develop, scale and enhance its Technology for market roll-out in 2023. The Marsman development team will be led by Martin Ma, an early key employee of the Alibaba Group who helped Alibaba found various key divisions within the group, including its Internet, CRM and Business Intelligence units. Previously a senior manager at Huawei, Mr. Ma is also the founder of Heliao, a business social networking platform in China and also provides outsourced development services for select projects. Assisting Mr. Ma will be a development team consist of approximately eight persons working both full and part time and with specialties ranging from TensorFlow development, front and back-end web development, project management, user interface design, quality control and assurance testing and server management. "We are very excited to be working with Marsman to develop an enhanced and scalable version of the Company's Technology" said James Liang, CEO of Scope. "Scope is at the forefront of a rapidly expanding industry and our goal is for Scope's Technology to become an essential tool for project developers of carbon credits and corporations looking towards establishing a net zero footprint. We believe the Company's partnership with Marsman will only enrich the development of the Technology and we looking forward to working and learning alongside our partner Martin Ma and his Alibaba team." About Scope Carbon Corp. Scope is a technology company located in Vancouver, British Columbia and is focused on the commercial development of its AI-driven image software, which the Company intends to use for the identification and estimation of carbon-based lifeforms and carbon emissions, both key components in the identification of carbon credits. The Company is currently focused on the commercial development of its Technology through its research and development program, to expand its capabilities and provide a one-tool solution in carbon mapping Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that constitute forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this news release that are not purely historical statements of fact are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, future, strategy, objectives, goals and targets, and more specifically any advancements or developments made to the Company's Technology, the participation of Mr. Prescott in the development of the Technology, qualities or development time of the Technology, any innovations which could be made to the Technology, timelines on commercialization of the Technology, the participation of Mr. Ma in the development of the Technology, the prospects of the carbon credits market and the application of the Technology to the same as well as all payments to be made Marsman. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable and reflect expectations of future developments and other factors which management believes to be reasonable and relevant, the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believes", "expects", "aim", "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. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, including, but not limited to, those risks and assumptions described in the Company's prospectus dated August 10, 2022, a copy of which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. While Scope considers these assumptions to be reasonable, based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. In addition, forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with general economic conditions, continued satisfaction of Canadian Securities Exchange requirements, product safety and recalls, regulatory compliance and risks associated with the Company's business. For more information on the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause anticipated opportunities and actual results to differ materially, please refer to the risk factors set out in the Company's prospectus dated August 10, 2022, a copy of which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, unless required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Canadian Securities Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the business of the Company and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy hereof. Contact Information James Liang, CEO [email protected] +1 (604) 683 0911 SOURCE Scope Carbon Corp. NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of IronNet, Inc. (""IronNet" or the "Company") (NYSE: IRNT). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether IronNet 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 September 14, 2022, IronNet disclosed the impending departures of co-Chief Executive Officer William Welch and Chief Financial Officer James Gerber and stated that the Company would cut a total of 35% of its workforce, or about 110 jobs. On this news, IronNet's stock price fell $0.99 per share, or 44.77%, to close at $1.22 per share on September 15, 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 HOUSTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Surge Energy US Holdings Company ("Surge Energy" or the "Company") announces an increased borrowing base from $1.5 billion to $1.75 billion on the Company's revolving credit facility ("Credit Facility"). The increase is in connection with the Credit Facility's regularly scheduled semi-annual redetermination that recently closed. Elected commitments remained unchanged at $935 million. "Surge appreciates the continued support from our bank group," stated Chief Financial Officer James Welch. "We believe the results of this redetermination are another example of the quality of our people and the continued development and growth of our asset base." About Surge Energy Surge Energy US Holdings Company is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the development, exploitation, production and acquisition of oil and natural gas reserves in the Midland Basin of West Texas, one of three primary sub-basins of the Permian Basin. The Company is headquartered in Houston, Texas, and currently holds approximately 114,000 net acres in the Permian Basin. Surge was the only oil and gas production company recognized by the Houston Business Journal's Best Places to Work Lists in both 2020 and 2021. For more information, visit our website at www.SurgeEnergyA.com. SOURCE Surge Energy The Liu Shiming Art Foundation and Georgia State University held an event to mark the beginning of their partnership by honoring the university's first Liu Shiming Scholar. ATLANTA, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Liu Shiming Art Foundation and Georgia State University held an event this Thursday to commemorate the foundation and university's partnership, as well as GSU's first-ever Liu Shiming scholarship recipient. The event was held at GSU's Ernest G. Welsh School of Art and Design gallery, where an exhibition of Liu Shiming's art was on display, entitled, "Cutting Through Mountains to Bring in Water". GSU Faculty, Liu Shiming Art Foundation President, and GSU Liu Shiming Scholar Leslie Drennan pictured alongside Liu Shiming's sculpture, "Cutting Through Mountains to Bring in Water" Among the works of the late Chinese artist Liu Shiming, GSU and the foundation celebrated the scholarship recipient Leslie Drennan an Atlanta-based graduate student at the Ernest G. Welch School of Art and Design specializing in woodworking and sculpture. Leslie's primary artistic goal is to create work that explores humanity's relationship to the natural world through the passing of time and discarded materials. At the event, Leslie spoke to attendees, expressing her gratitude and excitement to, "use this funding as a way to further my study of materials and explore my work conceptually with more freedom and creativity". The exhibit will travel next to the University of Georgia where it will be on display from early November 2022 until January 2023. The Liu Shiming Art Foundation is expanding its programs across the world to preserve the works of Liu Shiming and to support students of the arts with scholarships, grants, and exchange programs. Currently, scholarships are offered at CUNY's Macaulay Honors College, GSU, American University Beirut, American University Cairo, Maryland Institute College of Art, Singapore's Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, Bar-Ilan University, Western University, Rutgers, UCLA, and Columbia University. For more information on the work of the foundation, head to their website, www.lsmartfund.org. Media Contacts: Hannah Hunter [email protected] Will Sommer [email protected] SOURCE Liu Shiming Art Foundation Ken Block and Drew Copeland of Sister Hazel slated to perform at fundraiser that benefits the band's non-profit foundation, Lyrics for Life. GAINESVILLE, Fla., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TradePMR, a technology and custodial services provider for Registered Investment Advisors, will host its sixth annual Oktoberfest on Thursday, October 6, 2022, from 5:30 7:30 p.m. ET at TradePMR headquarters, 2511 NW 41st St in Gainesville, Fla. The event will feature craft beer selections from Gainesville's own Blackadder Brewing as well as dining options from local food trucks. Oktoberfest will also include a performance from Ken Block and Drew Copeland from Sister Hazel, with all proceeds benefiting the band's non-profit foundation, Lyrics for Life. "Oktoberfest is a special event for our community and team members, and we are thrilled once again to gather with our neighbors and friends to support such a worthy cause," said Robb Baldwin, Founder and CEO of TradePMR. "We are proud to support Ken, Drew and Lyrics for Life in their fight against pediatric cancer. We invite the entire Gainesville community to our offices to join us in supporting such a worthy cause." We invite the Gainesville community to our offices and join us in supporting a worthy cause," Robb Baldwin, TradePMR Tweet this Lyrics for Life is a non-profit organization founded in 2002 by Sister Hazel to help fight children's cancer. Donations to the charity benefit research support programs as well as an annual three-day event at Camp Crystal Lake in North Central Florida for children and families managing a cancer diagnosis. Oktoberfest has a $10 suggested donation at the door; however, all donations are welcome and will go directly to Lyrics for Life. There will also be a raffle at this year's event for items donated by local businesses attendees can purchase one raffle ticket for $10 or three for $25 which will be available on-site at the event. There is parking available within walking distance of the event. Premium parking spots next to the event will be available on-site for a $50 donation. TradePMR will be matching donations dollar-for-dollar to benefit Lyrics for Life. For more information on this year's event or to make a donation online, visit https://oktoberfest.tradepmr.com. Ideas for charitable giving and community service as well as questions surrounding this year's event should be sent to [email protected] About TradePMR For more than two decades, TradePMR has worked with growth-minded independent registered investment advisors (RIAs), providing innovative technology tools and support designed to transform their businesses. The privately-held brokerage and custodian services provider (Member FINRA/SIPC), based in Gainesville, Fla., works to streamline fee-only investment advisors' operations through comprehensive custodial, operational, and trading support. For more information, visit www.TradePMR.com. Follow TradePMR on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn for the latest news, updates, and event information. SOURCE TradePMR DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Univar Solutions Inc. (NYSE: UNVR) ("Univar Solutions" or "the Company"), a leading global solutions provider to users of specialty ingredients and chemicals, today announced that on November 1, 2022 it plans to report financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2022. Univar Solutions to Report Third Quarter Financial Results on November 1 Tweet this Univar Solutions to Report Third Quarter Financial Results on November 1 After the market closes on Tuesday, November 1, Univar Solutions plans to issue its third quarter news release. At the same time, the Company will post a slide presentation in the investor relations section of its website at https://investors.univarsolutions.com. Following the release, at 8:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday, November 2, the Company will host a webcast with investors to discuss the third quarter results. The webcast will be accessible through the investor relations section on Univar Solutions website. Following the event, an archived version of the webcast and supporting materials will be available on Univar Solutions website at https://investors.univarsolutions.com. About Univar Solutions Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global commodity and specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries, and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together. Learn more at univarsolutions.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes certain statements relating to future events and our intentions, beliefs, expectations, and predictions for the future, which are "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, as amended. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which may be beyond the Company's control. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations and assumptions. A detailed discussion of these factors and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Potential factors that could affect such forward-looking statements include, among others: the ultimate geographic spread of the COVID-19 pandemic; the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic; actions that may be taken by governmental authorities to address or otherwise mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the potential negative impacts of COVID-19 on the global economy and our customers and suppliers; the overall impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, results of operations and financial condition; other fluctuations in general economic conditions, particularly in industrial production and the demands of our customers; significant changes in the business strategies of producers or in the operations of our customers; increased competitive pressures, including as a result of competitor consolidation; significant changes in the pricing, demand and availability of chemicals; our levels of indebtedness, the restrictions imposed by our debt instruments, and our ability to obtain additional financing when needed; the broad spectrum of laws and regulations that we are subject to, including extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations; an inability to integrate the business and systems of companies we acquire, including of Nexeo Solutions, Inc., or to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions; potential business disruptions and security breaches, including cybersecurity incidents; an inability to generate sufficient working capital; increases in transportation and fuel costs and changes in our relationship with third party providers; accidents, safety failures, environmental damage, product quality and liability issues and recalls; major or systemic delivery failures involving our distribution network or the products we carry; operational risks for which we may not be adequately insured; ongoing litigation and other legal and regulatory risks; challenges associated with international operations; exposure to interest rate and currency fluctuations; potential impairment of goodwill; liabilities associated with acquisitions, ventures and strategic investments; negative developments affecting our pension plans and multi-employer pensions; labor disruptions associated with the unionized portion of our workforce; and the other factors described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We caution you that the forward-looking information presented in this press release is not a guarantee of future events or results, and that actual events or results may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking information contained in this press release. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "plan," "seek, "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Any forward-looking information presented herein is made only as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise, except as required by law. SOURCE Univar Solutions Inc. Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans available in 209 new counties Wellcare will offer a total of 102 Prescription Drug Plans nationwide Value Based Insurance Design (VBID) model to improve health outcomes and lower costs for members with low-income subsidy on all Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) Amazon added to preferred retail pharmacy network TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wellcare, a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), announced today it will expand its wide range of Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) offerings during the 2023 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) beginning Oct. 15, 2022. "As Medicare Advantage enrollment continues to grow across the country, Wellcare is proud to offer more plans, enhanced benefits, and greater choices to help our members and those eligible for Medicare live better, healthier lives," said Rich Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of Medicare for Centene, Wellcare's parent company. Expanded Footprint and New Plan Offerings Today, Wellcare serves nearly 1.5 million MA members across its 36-state footprint. In 2023, Wellcare will continue to expand its geographic footprint offering plans in 209 new counties. Wellcare will also offer 48 newly designed plans, and 18 of 36 markets will offer at least one new plan. Additionally, Wellcare will continue to expand Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) offerings, including newly launched PPO-D-SNP plans in Connecticut, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina. Wellcare's 2023 MA Plans: Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans offering access to a network of quality providers Local Preferred Provider Organization (LPPO) plans available for members seeking network flexibility Giveback plans that reduce some or all of the Part B premium available Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) plans give an option to members who qualify for extra help Wellcare Patriot plans are available for Veteran members 2023 MA Plan Highlights: $0 premiums on many plans premiums on many plans No or low copays for primary care physician (PCP) services $0 COVID vaccines and continued COVID testing COVID vaccines and continued COVID testing Preferred pharmacy network expansion and innovation to increase member access and cost savings New in 2023, Amazon is now a preferred retail pharmacy provider Many plans will now offer a national network of providers that accept Medicare; options vary by plan and region Smoking cessation, nutritional counseling, and other counseling services offered on many plans Flex cards available on many plans for dental, hearing, and vision benefits All dental allowances now fall under one singular package for comprehensive dental services SSBCI (Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill) benefits to include expanded in-home fitness services 1 Healthy Food Cards with monthly allowances and $0 prescription co-pays on all tiers for almost all dually eligible members through the Value-Based Insurance Design (VBID) Model 2023 Medicare PDP Highlights: Wellcare will offer a total of 102 PDPs nationwide Three plans will be offered in all 34 regions across all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia . . All plans will feature a $0 Tier 1 benefit when filled at preferred pharmacies, including Amazon, Walgreens, CVS, and most grocers Tier 1 benefit when filled at preferred pharmacies, including Amazon, Walgreens, CVS, and most grocers Part D Senior Savings Model (SSM), which reduces member spending on insulin, will be offered on Value Script and Value Plus products A new formulary design will be offered on the Value Script and Value Plus plans; it will contain medications commonly used to treat diabetes and will cost only $11 per 30-day supply per 30-day supply Plans offer competitive formularies that are 89% aligned or favorable in coverage and tier placement for the top 400 drugs (96% of Medicare utilization) compared to plans nationwide The 2023 Medicare AEP begins on October 15 and continues through December 7, 2022. Most plans purchased during AEP are effective January 1, 2023. For more details about Wellcare's Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, visit www.WellcareNow.com. About Wellcare For more than 20 years, Wellcare has offered a range of Medicare products, including Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (PDP), which offer affordable coverage beyond Original Medicare. Today, the company offers benefits with every Medicare beneficiary in mind, such as dental, hearing and vision services; Flex cards to assist with co-pays; transportation services; telehealth visits; wellness and fitness programs; in-home support services; and special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill. Wellcare is a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading healthcare enterprise committed to transforming the health of the community, one person at a time. Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, Centene's Medicare brands, including Allwell, Health Net, Fidelis Care, Trillium Advantage, 'Ohana Health Plan, and TexanPlus transitioned to the Wellcare brand. For more information about Wellcare, visit www.wellcare.com. 'Ohana Health Plan, a plan offered by WellCare Health Insurance of Arizona, Inc. Washington residents: Health Net Life Insurance Company is contracted with Medicare for PPO plans. "Wellcare by Health Net" is issued by Health Net Life Insurance Company. "Wellcare" is issued by Wellcare of Washington, Inc. "Wellcare" is issued by WellCare Health Insurance Company of Washington, Inc. "Wellcare" is issued by WellCare Prescription Insurance, Inc. Wellcare is the Medicare brand for Centene Corporation, an HMO, PPO, PFFS, PDP plan with a Medicare contract and is an approved Part D Sponsor. Our D-SNP plans have a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. 1Benefits mentioned may be a part of Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill. Not all members will qualify. Arizona D-SNP plans: Contract services are funded in part under contract with the State of Arizona. New Mexico (NM) Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) Members: As a Wellcare by Allwell D-SNP member, you have coverage from both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid services are funded in part by the state of New Mexico. NM Medicaid benefits may be limited to payment of Medicare premiums for some members. For Louisiana D-SNP members: As a WellCare HMO D-SNP member, you have coverage from both Medicare and Medicaid. You receive your Medicare health care and prescription drug coverage through WellCare and are also eligible to receive additional health care services and coverage through Louisiana Medicaid. Learn more about providers who participate in Louisiana Medicaid by visiting https://www.myplan.healthy.la.gov/myaccount/choose/find-provider. For detailed information about Louisiana Medicaid benefits, please visit the Medicaid website at https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid and select the "Learn about Medicaid Services" link. For Louisiana D-SNP prospective enrollees: For detailed information about Louisiana Medicaid benefits, please visit the Medicaid website at https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid. Notice: TennCare is not responsible for payment for these benefits, except for appropriate cost sharing amounts. TennCare is not responsible for guaranteeing the availability or quality of these benefits. Any benefits above and beyond traditional Medicare benefits are applicable to Wellcare Medicare Advantage only and do not indicate increased Medicaid benefits. For Indiana D-SNP prospective enrollees: For detailed information about Indiana Medicaid benefits, please visit the Medicaid website at https://www.in.gov/medicaid/ Wellcare's pharmacy network includes limited lower-cost preferred pharmacies in rural areas of MO and NE. The lower costs advertised in our plan materials for these pharmacies may not be available at the pharmacy you use. For up-to-date information about our network pharmacies, including whether there are any lower-cost preferred pharmacies in your area, please call 1-833-444-9088 (TTY 711) for Wellcare No Premium (HMO) and Wellcare Giveback (HMO) in MO or consult the online pharmacy directory at www.wellcare.com/medicare; and 1-833-542-0693 (TTY 711) for Wellcare No Premium (HMO), Wellcare Giveback (HMO), and Wellcare No Premium Open (PPO) in NE or consult the online pharmacy directory at www.wellcare.com/NE. Other Pharmacies are available in our network. Wellcare by Allwell (HMO and HMO SNP) includes products that are underwritten by Superior HealthPlan, Inc. and Superior HealthPlan Community Solutions, Inc. Wellcare (HMO and HMO SNP) includes products that are underwritten by WellCare of Texas, Inc., WellCare National Health Insurance Company, and SelectCare of Texas, Inc. Please contact your plan for details. Forward-Looking Statements All statements, other than statements of current or historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, forward-looking statements often use words such as "believe," "anticipate," "plan," "expect," "estimate," "intend," "seek," "target," "goal," "may," "will," "would," "could," "should," "can," "continue" and other similar words or expressions (and the negative thereof). Centene (the Company, our, or we) intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and we are including this statement for purposes of complying with these safe-harbor provisions. In particular, these statements include, without limitation, statements about our future operating or financial performance, market opportunity, value creation strategy, competition, expected activities in connection with completed and future acquisitions and dispositions, including statements about the impact of our recently completed acquisition of Magellan Health, Inc. (the Magellan Acquisition), other recent and future acquisitions and dispositions, our investments and the adequacy of our available cash resources. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environments, future developments and other factors we believe appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are subject to change because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future, including economic, regulatory, competitive and other factors that may cause our or our industry's actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to us on the date hereof. Except as may be otherwise required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements included in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date hereof. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from projections, estimates, or other forward-looking statements due to a variety of important factors, variables and events including, but not limited to: our ability to accurately predict and effectively manage health benefits and other operating expenses and reserves, including fluctuations in medical utilization rates due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19; the risk that the election of new directors, changes in senior management, and any inability to retain key personnel may create uncertainty or negatively impact our ability to execute quickly and effectively; uncertainty as to the expected financial performance of the combined company following the recent completion of the Magellan Acquisition; the possibility that the expected synergies and value creation from the Magellan Acquisition or the acquisition of WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (the WellCare Acquisition) or other acquired businesses will not be realized, or will not be realized within the respective expected time periods; disruption from the integration of the Magellan Acquisition or the WellCare Acquisition, unexpected costs, or similar risks from other acquisitions or dispositions we may announce or complete from time to time, including potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships with customers, employees, suppliers or regulators, making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; the risk that the closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals, for the pending dispositions of Magellan Rx and our Spanish and Central European businesses, may be delayed or not obtained; impairments to real estate, investments, goodwill and intangible assets; a downgrade of the credit rating of our indebtedness; competition; membership and revenue declines or unexpected trends; changes in healthcare practices, new technologies, and advances in medicine; increased healthcare costs; changes in economic, political or market conditions; changes in federal or state laws or regulations, including changes with respect to income tax reform or government healthcare programs as well as changes with respect to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act (collectively referred to as the ACA) and any regulations enacted thereunder that may result from changing political conditions, the new administration or judicial actions; rate cuts or other payment reductions or delays by governmental payors and other risks and uncertainties affecting our government businesses; our ability to adequately price products; tax matters; disasters or major epidemics; changes in expected contract start dates; provider, state, federal, foreign and other contract changes and timing of regulatory approval of contracts; the expiration, suspension, or termination of our contracts with federal or state governments (including, but not limited to, Medicaid, Medicare, TRICARE or other customers); the difficulty of predicting the timing or outcome of legal or regulatory proceedings or matters, including, but not limited to, our ability to resolve claims and/or allegations made by states with regard to past practices, including at Envolve Pharmacy Solutions, Inc. (Envolve), as our pharmacy benefits manager (PBM) subsidiary, within the reserve estimate we recorded in 2021 and on other acceptable terms, or at all, or whether additional claims, reviews or investigations relating to our PBM business will be brought by states, the federal government or shareholder litigants, or government investigations; the timing and extent of benefits from strategic value creation initiatives, including the possibility that these initiatives will not be successful, or will not be realized within the expected time periods; challenges to our contract awards; cyber-attacks or other privacy or data security incidents; the exertion of management's time and our resources, and other expenses incurred and business changes required in connection with complying with the undertakings in connection with any regulatory, governmental or third party consents or approvals for acquisitions or dispositions; any changes in expected closing dates, estimated purchase price and accretion for acquisitions or dispositions; restrictions and limitations in connection with our indebtedness; our ability to maintain or achieve improvement in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Star ratings and maintain or achieve improvement in other quality scores in each case that can impact revenue and future growth; the availability of debt and equity financing on terms that are favorable to us; inflation; foreign currency fluctuations; and risks and uncertainties discussed in the reports that Centene has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This list of important factors is not intended to be exhaustive. We discuss certain of these matters more fully, as well as certain other factors that may affect our business operations, financial condition and results of operations, in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Due to these important factors and risks, we cannot give assurances with respect to our future performance, including without limitation our ability to maintain adequate premium levels or our ability to control our future medical and selling, general and administrative costs. SOURCE Wellcare MILWAUKEE, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A. O. Smith Corporation (NYSE: AOS) will release its third quarter 2022 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, October 27, and has scheduled an investor conference call to follow at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time). The call can be heard live on the company's website, www.aosmith.com. An audio replay of the call will be available on the company's website after the live event. To access the archived audio replay, go to the "Investors" page and select the "Third Quarter Conference Call" link. A. O. Smith Announces Third Quarter Conference Call Tweet this About A. O. Smith A. O. Smith Corporation, with headquarters in Milwaukee, Wis., is a global leader applying innovative technology and energy-efficient solutions to products manufactured and marketed worldwide. Listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AOS), the Company is one of the world's leading manufacturers of residential and commercial water heating equipment and boilers, as well as a manufacturer of water treatment products. For more information, visit www.aosmith.com. SOURCE A. O. Smith Corporation MEDIA ADVISORY: Reporters wishing to cover the gubernatorial debate at Illinois State University can find information on media credentialing and event details below. BLOOMINGTON, Ill. and Normal, Ill., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- College students and older adults in central Illinois will hear from Democratic Nominee Governor JB Pritzker and Republican Nominee State Sen. Darren Bailey on issues important to both generations during a gubernatorial debate televised live at 7 p.m. on Oct. 6 from Illinois State University's Braden Auditorium. The debate, the first collaboration of this kind between AARP Illinois and Illinois State University, will allow members from two powerful voting blocs to hear from the candidates on matters important to both including affordable housing, healthcare, education, jobs, the cost of prescription drugs and more. The debate will be hosted by Nexstar Media Group and presented by AARP Illinois and Illinois State University. The event will be televised live on Nexstar affiliates throughout the state including Central Illinois' WMBD-TV, radio broadcast on NPR affiliates WGLT and WCBU, and will be covered by La Voz, the Spanish-language section of the Chicago Sun-Times. "AARP Illinois has 1.7 million members who will comprise 60 to 70 percent of all voters this election in the vast majority of the races. They are looking to the next Governor to create meaningful solutions for struggles they feel every day," said Philippe Largent, AARP Illinois State Director. "We are proud to be partnering with Illinois State University to remind both candidates that voters of all generations must be heard." "Civic engagement is a core value of Illinois State University, said Illinois State President Terri Goss Kinzy. "Through this partnership with AARP Illinois we are helping provide an opportunity for our students and people throughout the state to hear from the candidates about issues that are important to Illinois." The following opportunities are available for media: Coverage of the debate from a dedicated media room adjacent to Braden Auditorium. A video feed from the debate stage will be available. Media credentials are required for on-site coverage of the event and access to the media room. To obtain credentials visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2e_M4AFuFQDOXOtQYRjwz43E0njzIaoA-lVTKYUM2vZE8wA/viewform To obtain credentials visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2e_M4AFuFQDOXOtQYRjwz43E0njzIaoA-lVTKYUM2vZE8wA/viewform Planned post-debate media availabilities with candidates/campaign staff. Optional coverage of a post-debate discussion between older adults and seniors. with attendees available for interviews SOURCE AARP Illinois Real estate technology veteran to serve as technology leader across RE/MAX, Motto Mortgage, and other subsidiaries DENVER, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RMAX), parent company of RE/MAX, one of the world's leading franchisors of real estate brokerage services, and Motto Mortgage, the first and only national mortgage brokerage franchise brand in the U.S., today announced that Grady Ligon will join as Chief Information Officer (CIO). He has more than 20 years of experience in technology and data leadership with a proven track record of upgrading organizational application of technology, accelerating business growth and expansion. As CIO, Ligon will continue to scale the world-class tech tools, both proprietary and through branded integrations, across the dual-brand franchisor and RE/MAX Holdings' subsidiary companies. Serving most recently as Chief Information Officer for Fathom Realty and IntelliAgent, LLC, Ligon led the Fathom team through business and technology integrations of acquired businesses in the mortgage, title, and insurance business space. Ligon also served as Chief Information Officer for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices for six years and held the same position at Prudential Real Estate Services and Prudential Real Estate & Relocation. Prior to those roles, he also served as Vice President, Investment Bank Technology at J.P. Morgan and owned an independent consulting operation focused on digital and cloud transformations called Safis Digital. Ligon holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Information Systems and Statistics from Baylor University, as well as a Texas Real Estate license, and Certified Relocation Professional and Project Management Professional designations. "Grady is a proven, highly effective professional who fits right in with the leadership teams of our two industry-leading brands," said Steve Joyce, RE/MAX Holdings Chief Executive Officer. "His vast experience and track record make him the ideal leader to continue the technology evolution happening within our brands. He has vision, moves quickly, and is skilled at mobilizing resources to stay ahead of the competition and accelerate growth. I look forward to seeing what he can accomplish as part of the RE/MAX Holdings organization." Ligon said: "RE/MAX Holdings is a world-class company that needs no introduction, and I'm thrilled to be joining this exceptional team. I'm excited to help develop a comprehensive tech strategy closely aligned with our business strategy across these leading brands. There's a lot to like about the foundation already in place, and I believe we can build an even greater technology edge with even more value for all stakeholders." Ligon's hire follows several strategic announcements from RE/MAX Holdings' subsidiary companies including the newly entered enterprise-wide relationship between RE/MAX, LLC and Inside Real Estate to launch MAX/Tech Powered by kvCORE, as well as technologies in development to meet the needs of mortgage brokers. About RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RMAX) is one of the world's leading franchisors in the real estate industry, franchising real estate brokerages globally under the RE/MAX brand, and mortgage brokerages within the U.S. under the Motto Mortgage brand. RE/MAX was founded in 1973 by Dave and Gail Liniger, with an innovative, entrepreneurial culture affording its agents and franchisees the flexibility to operate their businesses with great independence. Now with more than 140,000 agents in almost 9,000 offices and a presence in more than 110 countries and territories, nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX, as measured by total residential transaction sides. Dedicated to innovation and change in the real estate industry, RE/MAX launched Motto Franchising, LLC, a ground-breaking mortgage brokerage franchisor, in 2016. Motto Mortgage has grown to over 200 offices across almost 40 states. Forward-Looking Statements This Press Release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of words such as "believe," "intend," "expect," "estimate," "plan," "outlook," "project," "anticipate," "may," "will," "would" and other similar words and expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends that are not statements of historical matters. Forward-looking statements include statements related to: the Company's technology strategy, scaling technology tools, growth, the Company's ability to stay ahead of the competition, and building value for stakeholders. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily accurately indicate the times at which such performance or results may be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, (1) the global COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to pose significant and widespread risks to the Company's business, including the Company's agents, loan originators, franchisees and employees, as well as home buyers and sellers, (2) changes in the real estate market or interest rates and availability of financing, (3) changes in business and economic activity in general, (4) the Company's ability to attract and retain quality franchisees and the Company's franchisees' ability to recruit and retain real estate agents and mortgage loan originators, (5) changes in laws and regulations, (6) the Company's ability to enhance, market, and protect its brands, including the RE/MAX and Motto Mortgage brands, (7) the Company's ability to implement its strategic initiatives, including technology initiatives, (8) fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, and (9) those risks and uncertainties described in the sections entitled "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and similar disclosures in subsequent periodic and current reports filed with the SEC, which are available on the investor relations page of the Company's website at www.remaxholdings.com and on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend, and undertakes no obligation, to update this information to reflect future events or circumstances. SOURCE RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aerosoles, the leading global footwear brand known for its superior comfort, innovative technology and on-trend fashion is celebrating its 35th anniversary. Originally launched in 1987 by businessman, Jules Schneider, this New York City-based company has navigated several sales and acquisitions throughout the years but continues to be focused on what made the brand so successful from the beginning, and that is keeping innovation and comfort at the forefront. Aerosoles Fall 2022 Video Aerosoles Aerosoles was created in 1987 during a New York City transit strike when women were forced to walk to work in sneakers with their office heels in tow. It was in that moment that Schneider realized that women should not have to sacrifice style for comfort. He saw the opportunity to create a shoe that was both comfortable and fashionable, intended for the woman who is constantly on her feet. Aerosoles was born with elevated and on-trend styles that offered comfort once only found in casual shoes. It was truly a revolutionary concept for the footwear industry and made them pioneers of that space. In 1987, the brand created its original slogan "they're not just shoes, they're Aerosoles" - and for the past three decades, they have continued to stay true to their word by delivering premium comfort, style and quality to its customers without the premium price. The notion of comfort is integrated into every element of the brand's footwear design. From their innovative Diamond Flex Sole originally created in 1989 and patented in 2003, to their pillow soft insoles and Stitch N' Turn production technique developed in 1990, Aerosoles has demonstrated decades of commitment to perfecting the science of comfort. In addition to the many popular trend-right styles that the brand offers each season, the signature footwear designs that the brand debuted in 1987 like ballet slippers, flats and loafers remain the top-selling core styles decades later. The brand has crafted some noteworthy partnerships and activations throughout the years. In 2018, Aerosoles collaborated with American retail businesswoman and television personality, Martha Stewart on a line of footwear. Stewart, a fan of the brand who was often seen wearing styles on red carpets was a natural choice for a brand ambassadorship. The collection kicked off with a series of equestrian rainboots, inspired by Stewart's passion for horseback riding. This successful launch was followed by a complete collection of wardrobe staples like casual and dress flats, heeled sandals, mules, slides, and espadrille wedges that debuted in spring 2019. Following this successful launch, the brand collaborated with iconic British lifestyle label Laura Ashley in 2021 to feature the brand's signature floral prints on Aerosoles' bestselling styles. The capsule collection included curated looks, from summer sandals to transitional clogs and boots blended with nostalgic prints from Laura Ashley's archives. Since its inception, the brand has adapted to the everchanging retail landscape to serve the needs of their target consumer. In 2019, the brand opened up a "Fit Shop" pop-up shop in bustling Grand Central Terminal where consumers were able to try on the bestselling styles to find their perfect fit. Consumers were offered free shipping so they could walk away with their purchases hands-free. This is also the same year the brand launched Aerosoles.com, their e-commerce site after seeing the shift in consumer shopping habits. Recently acquired in 2022 by American Exchange Group, an industry leader in accessories design and manufacturing, the focus is now set on expansion into new product categories and international growth. The brand recently announced that they were introducing a new kids footwear collection in fall 2022. To add to the already successful slipper licensing partnership, the brand is expanding with new partners into men's and ladies flip flops, men's socks, slippers and roller skates for men, women and youth into their product assortment beginning summer 2023 with their new licensing partners. The brand has plans to showcase a new cold weather capsule collection for Holiday 2022 that includes women's scarves and hats to successfully tap into gift giving season. This expansion aligns with the brand's strategy to consistently deliver trend right and comfortable designs to a wide range of consumers. As the brand moves into 2023, consumers can look forward to even more design updates, expansion into new product categories, exciting marketing and social media campaigns, and a website refresh. "In an industry where brands come and go, we are proud to celebrate this important milestone. Aerosoles has cemented its position as the authority in comfort and style for the past three decades and will continue to remain a mainstay in the footwear segment" says Alen Mamrout, CEO of American Exchange Group. The brand will be celebrating this important milestone during the month of October. Head to www.aerosoles.com to learn more. About Aerosoles Aerosoles is a leading global footwear company delivering high quality products with both fashion and performance to customers in over 40 countries around the world. About American Exchange Group American Exchange Group is an industry leader in accessories design and manufacturing. By facilitating distribution to major retailers globally for our proprietary brands, custom private label brands and exclusive licensed brands, including footwear, tech wearables, watches, jewelry, handbags and fashion accessories, American Exchange Group raises the bar by disrupting status quo pricing while staying at the forefront of trends. SOURCE American Exchange Group LYSAKER, Norway, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aker Solutions, in a consortium with Siemens Energy, has been awarded a limited notice to proceed contract from Vattenfall for the Norfolk Boreas offshore wind project off the coast of Norfolk, UK. For the project, Aker Solutions and Siemens Energy will provide the grid connection infrastructure for the Norfolk Boreas Offshore Wind Farm. This includes the engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) of the high voltage direct current (HVDC) offshore platform, onshore substation and connection to the National Grid. The project is subject to regulatory approvals and the customer's final investment decision (FID) expected during the second quarter of 2023. Aker Solutions will at this stage book a sizeable1 order intake reflecting the compensated work that is to be performed until the expected FID next year. Further to this, Aker Solutions estimates a contract value for the company following FID to be in the range of NOK 2.5 to 3.5 billion. "The development of Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone could require up to three HVDC platforms in succession, which would provide more long-term predictability and positive repeat effects and standardization for the supplier industry. Together with Siemens Energy, we are proud to support a project which meets the dual objective of developing local content while delivering low cost, green electricity to homes and businesses across the UK," said Kenneth Simonsen, Senior Vice President of Offshore Wind at Aker Solutions. "We are very proud to announce this agreement. Developing state of the art HVDC technology and having such strong partners on board clearly underlines our position as one of Europe's leading developers in offshore wind. It is also a significant boost for local communities and UK companies that will be able to benefit from opportunities in the supply chain to help deliver one of the largest offshore wind zones in the world," said Helene Bistrom, Head of Business Area Wind at Vattenfall. About Norfolk Offshore Wind Located more than 47 kilometers off the Norfolk coast and with an installed capacity of 1.4GW, Norfolk Boreas is the first phase of Vattenfall's Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone and comes ahead of the Norfolk Vanguard Offshore Wind Farm. This first phase of the Norfolk Zone will deliver first power in the mid-to-late-2020s. Once complete, the Zone will produce enough renewable electricity to power more than four million homes and save around six million tonnes of CO2. The contract will be booked as order intake in the third quarter of 2022 in the Renewables and Field Development segment. 1Aker Solutions defines a sizeable contract as being between NOK 0.5 billion and NOK 1.5 billion CONTACT: Media Contact, Corporate: Torbjrn Andersen, mob: +47 928 85 542, email: [email protected] Media Contact, UK: Rebecca Cox, mob: +44 (0)1224 287516, email: [email protected] Investor Contact: Fredrik Berge, mob: +47 450 32 090, email: [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/aker-solutions-asa/r/aker-solutions-asa--major-step-forward-for-norfolk-offshore-wind-project,c3640716 The following files are available for download: https://news.cision.com/aker-solutions-asa/i/vattenfall-credit-offshore-wind-01-1920x1080,c3095861 vattenfall credit offshore wind 01 1920x1080 SOURCE Aker Solutions ASA WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- To stay ahead of the urgent needs of equitable healthcare, Martis Capital, a leading middle market healthcare fund, is excited to announce its investment in Alcanza Clinical Research. Founded in December 2021 and named for the Spanish word "reach," Alcanza is a clinical research site network platform dedicated to creating a sustainable and inclusive clinical trial environment for all. Martis Capital As patient advocacy groups, research stakeholders, and regulators urge sponsors to expand clinical trial inclusion, Alcanza is actively transforming the model for research access to underrepresented populations across different races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, disability statuses and more while enhancing clinical research quality and patient recruitment efforts. As a first step, Alcanza has acquired five high-performing clinical research companies. These include Coastal Carolina Research Center, Boston Clinical Trials, ActivMed and Allcutis Research, Quest Research Institute and Charlottesville Medical Research across eight locations in Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Virginia. Each site brings 20 to more than 30 years of experience in clinical research and a strong reputation for clinical and operational excellence, with complementary therapeutic specialization in psychiatry, neurology, vaccines and infectious disease, among others. Alcanza will continue to expand its national site network to provide full-scale Phase I-IV capabilities in multiple therapeutic areas while maintaining a broad client base of blue-chip biopharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations (CROs). Alcanza is led by CEO Carlos Orantes, a recognized industry leader with nearly three decades of experience. Most recently, Orantes led the site operations for Accelerated Enrollment Solutions, the wholly owned captive site network of PPD, a global CRO part of ThermoFisher Scientific. There, he held responsibility for more than 50 sites across the U.S. and Latin America. "We are excited to collaborate with Martis Capital to develop the next-generation site model that combines education, community engagement and exceptional patient care for truly inclusive research," said Orantes. "Our leadership team looks forward to expanding the reach of clinical research for all." "This partnership is a unique opportunity to drive sustainable improvements in the highly fragmented clinical trial space by focusing on improving disparities in clinical research," said Mario E. Moreno, Managing Partner at Martis Capital. "Carlos and the Alcanza team have a clear vision for how their differentiated approach to clinical research can address these longstanding challenges." Martis Capital has made a meaningful commitment to grow and expand Alcanza's capabilities and will continue to leverage its partnership approach, healthcare relationships and sourcing network to drive additional acquisitions and strategic partnerships. About Alcanza Clinical Research Alcanza Clinical Research is the next-generation site network established to support the most significant demands in our industry: diverse patient access, efficient enrollment performance and clinical quality. It practices inclusive clinical research that delivers education and a range of clinical trial opportunities to all people on their terms. Located in Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Virginia, Alcanza specializes in conditions across psychiatry, neurology, dermatology and infectious disease therapeutic areas. About Martis Capital Based in San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC, Martis Capital is a team of investment professionals who share a passion for helping build companies that seek to improve the quality of care and address the complex challenges facing the healthcare industry today. Martis seeks to identify exceptional investment opportunities and achieve shared growth objectives with founder-led companies and management teams. Martis Capital manages more than $2 billion of equity capital and is currently investing out of its fourth fund. For more information, please visit www.martiscapital.com or follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/martis-capital. SOURCE Martis Capital SideDish Brings Innovation To The Condiment Aisle Through Bold Flavors and Simple Ingredients DALLAS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SideDish , a multi-purpose dressing collection founded by Texas-raised and New York Times bestselling author, Alex Snodgrass of The Defined Dish, launches today. The new dressings were created to make mealtime more enjoyable, nutritious, and easy to prepare and will come in three varieties to start: Chipotle Ranch, Creamy Sesame, both which are Whole30 Approved, and Honey Dijon. SideDish products are dairy-free, paleo-friendly, preservative-free, and have zero added sugar. SideDish is available for pre-order in 3-packs for $28.85 directly on getsidedish.com, with brick-and-mortar retailers to follow. SideDish Chipotle Ranch, Honey Dijon, and Creamy Sesame SideDish was born after years of Snodgrass building her social media brand and community, The Defined Dish, and debuting two New York Times bestselling cookbooks, The Defined Dish and The Comfortable Kitchen. SideDish brings ease, simplicity, convenience, and flavor to kitchens nationwide. "Launching SideDish has been a dream of mine and is truly a culmination of my ethos providing home cooks with a solution to make mealtime more enjoyable," said Alex Snodgrass, Founder of SideDish. "Cooking can feel daunting and intimidating for many, but for me, the kitchen is a place where I unwind, relax, and express myself. I hope that SideDish will inspire people to get in the kitchen, have fun, and create nutritious meals to share with their loved ones." The versatile collection can be used as a dip, marinade, dressing for salad and bowls, and beyond. SideDish is available in: Chipotle Ranch: A spin on a beloved classic made without dairy, upgrading burgers, sandwiches, salads, spreads, sauces, and more. A spin on a beloved classic made without dairy, upgrading burgers, sandwiches, salads, spreads, sauces, and more. Creamy Sesame: This dressing is perfect for salads, noodle dishes, dips, and wraps, plus adds dimension to marinades. This dressing is perfect for salads, noodle dishes, dips, and wraps, plus adds dimension to marinades. Honey Dijon: Delicious brushed on salmon and chicken, tossed into salads, or as a spread for sandwiches. The options are limitless! To learn more about SideDish, please visit getsidedish.com and follow on Instagram @getsidedish . About SideDish: Founded by Alex Snodgrass in 2022, SideDish is a multi-purpose dressing collection full of bold flavors and simple ingredients. SideDish was born after years of Snodgrass building her social media brand and community, The Defined Dish, and debuting two New York Times bestselling cookbooks, The Defined Dish and The Comfortable Kitchen. Available in three flavors Chipotle Ranch, Creamy Sesame, and Honey Dijon SideDish brings ease, simplicity, convenience, and flavor to kitchens nationwide. SideDish products are dairy-free, paleo-friendly, preservative-free, have zero added sugar, and can be used as a dip, marinade, dressing for salad and bowls, and beyond. To learn more about SideDish, please visit getsidedish.com and follow on Instagram @getsidedish . Media Contact Power Digital [email protected] SOURCE SideDish The independent rating agency assigned the company's insurersMedical Mutual Insurance Company of North Carolina and Medical Security Insurance Companyan "Excellent" rating RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Curi, an advisory firm for physicians and medical practices, today announced that rating agency A.M. Best has affirmed the "A" (Excellent) rating for its insurance businesses for the nineteenth consecutive year, along with providing a long-term issuer credit rating of "a+" (Excellent). Curi Insurance provides medical professional liability insurance and alternative risk solutions for physicians and their practices. The A.M. Best outlook for these credit ratings is stable. According to the independent rating agency, the "A" rating is assigned only to select companies that have an excellent ability to meet ongoing insurance policy and financial obligations. The ratings reflect Curi's strong balance sheet and consistent operating performance, which has outperformed the industry and the medical professional liability composite. In addition, Curi has realized favorable underwriting and investment performance. "Nineteen consecutive years of 'A' ratings from A.M. Best are a testament to our consistent financial performance and strong foundation," said Brad Diericx, Curi Insurance's Chief Executive Officer. "We're incredibly proud of these ratings and remain as committed as ever to the disciplined approach and strategies that have helped us earn this recognition, and importantly, allow us to continue meeting the ever-changing needs of our member-owners." "We're honored to once again be recognized by A.M. Best for our strength, discipline, and innovationparticularly in light of the challenges that our industry and our customers are facing right now," said Jason Sandner, Curi's Chief Executive Officer. "These ratings are an important reflection of the diligent work of our team and always have us looking toward the future, as we identify new opportunities to grow and strengthen our business to best support the members we serve." For more information on A.M. Best's 2022 rating of Curi, click here. For more information on Curi's recent financial performance, see the company's Annual Reports at https://curi.com/annual-reports. About Curi Curi (curi.com) is a full-service advisory firm that serves physicians and medical practices. Equal parts fierce physician advocates, smart business leaders, and thoughtful partners, Curi's advisory, capital, and insurance offerings deliver valued advice that is grounded in client priorities and elevated by their outcomes. From data-driven advisory services to private wealth offerings, to tailored insurance solutions and beyond, Curi delivers performance that is time-tested and trustedin medicine, business, and life. About A.M. Best A.M. Best is the world's oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source. For more information, visit www.ambest.com. SOURCE Curi The Company reports that preliminary assessments indicate limited damage LAS VEGAS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE: AMH) ("American Homes 4 Rent" or the "Company") announced today that, based on its preliminary assessments, the Company suffered limited damage from Hurricane Ian to its single-family homes and communities located in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. The Company will continue to assess its portfolio and provide additional information or updates in the event of a material change in this situation. "The health, safety and well-being of our residents and employees remain our top priority," said David Singelyn, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of American Homes 4 Rent. "Our teams are on the ground in affected areas providing support as needed to our residents. We have been in regular communication with our residents and employees throughout to provide updates and resources, and begun processing related repair and maintenance work orders to return impacted houses to full operation as quickly as possible." About American Homes 4 Rent American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE: AMH) is a leading single-family property owner, leasing operator, and build-to-rent developer. Recent achievements include being named one of the 2022 Best Workplaces in Real Estate by Fortune, a 2022 Great Place to Work, a 2022 Top U.S. Homebuilder by Builder100, one of America's Most Responsible Companies 2022 and America's Most Trusted Companies 2022 by Newsweek and Statista, and a Top ESG Regional Performer by Sustainalytics. We are an internally managed Maryland real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on acquiring, developing, renovating, leasing, and managing homes as rental properties. As of June 30, 2022, we owned 58,715 single-family properties in select submarkets in 22 states. Additional information about American Homes 4 Rent is available on our website at www.americanhomes4rent.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" that relate to beliefs, expectations or intentions and similar statements concerning matters that are not of historical fact and are generally accompanied by words such as "estimate," "project," "predict," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "potential," "plan," "goal," "outlook," "guidance" or other words that convey the uncertainty of future events or outcomes. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, the magnitude of the damage to our portfolio impacted by Hurricane Ian and the anticipated timeline for processing related repair and maintenance work orders. The Company has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations and assumptions about future events. While the Company's management considers these expectations to be reasonable, they are inherently subject to risks, contingencies and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to conform to actual results or changes in its expectations, unless required by applicable law. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of the Company in general, see the "Risk Factors" disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and in the Company's subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Contacts: American Homes 4 Rent Megan Grabos Media Relations Phone: (805) 413-5088 Email: [email protected] American Homes 4 Rent Nicholas Fromm Investor Relations Phone: (855) 794-2447 Email: [email protected] SOURCE American Homes 4 Rent BRIDGEPORT, Conn., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aquarion Company (Aquarion), today announced that it has completed the acquisition of The Torrington Water Company (TWC). Aquarion, based in Bridgeport, Connecticut, provides regulated water service through its operating subsidiaries to customers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. TWC is a water utility based in Torrington, Connecticut providing regulated water service to Connecticut customers in Torrington and to portions of Burlington, Harwinton, Litchfield, and New Hartford and is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aquarion. The transaction was structured as a stock-for-stock tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes and provides that stockholders of TWC each receive 1.0710 common shares of Aquarion's parent, Eversource Energy (NYSE: ES), in exchange for their TWC common stock, implying an enterprise value of $86.4 million based on the closing price for Eversource common shares on September 30, 2022. TWC has assets of approximately $69 million. The merger adds approximately 10,100 customers to Aquarion's base of 226,000 customers. TWC's service area complements Aquarion's existing footprint in northwestern Connecticut, and all TWC employees will be retained. "We are proud to welcome TWC's dedicated employees to the Aquarion team. Both Aquarion and TWC have proud traditions dating back to the 1800s and this merger will ensure this history lives on and continues and will create long-term benefits for customers, employees, and the communities we serve," said Donald Morrissey, President of Aquarion. "We will continue to make needed investments in this water system to ensure continued reliability and water quality for many decades to come." Including the TWC transaction, since 2011, Aquarion has integrated 87 water systems across 27 transactions into its operations, strengthening the company's ability to deliver high-quality water to communities throughout the region. The acquisition follows the approval by the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority. The acquisition was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both Aquarion and TWC and was also approved by TWC's stockholders in June 2022. Advisors and Counsel Ropes & Gray LLP served as counsel to Aquarion Company and Eversource Energy in the transaction. Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. served as financial advisor and rendered a fairness opinion to the Board of Directors of The Torrington Water Company. Pullman & Comley LLC served as counsel to The Torrington Water Company. About Aquarion Company: Aquarion Company and its operating subsidiaries are the public water supply provider for more than 750,000 people in 72 cities and towns in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It is the largest investor-owned water utility in New England and among the seven largest in the U.S. Based in Bridgeport, CT, Aquarion has been in the public water supply business since 1857. Across its operations, Aquarion strives to act as a responsible steward of the environment and to assist the communities it serves in promoting sustainable practices. Aquarion Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eversource. For more information on Aquarion Company, please visit www.aquarionwater.com or www.facebook.com/aquarionwater. About The Torrington Water Company Formed in 1873, and located in Torrington, CT, The Torrington Water Company is a regulated public water utility that provides water service to just over 10,000 customers, or about 37,000 people, in 5 towns. For more information on The Torrington Water Company, please visit www.torringtonwater.com. This news release includes statements concerning Aquarion and Aquarion Water Company's expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, assumptions of future events, future financial performance or growth and other statements that are not historical facts, including statements regarding the benefits anticipated from the merger with The Torrington Water Company. These statements are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, readers can identify these forward-looking statements through the use of words or phrases such as "will," "estimate," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "project," "believe," "forecast," "should," "could" and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: that we may not realize the benefits we anticipate from the transaction; that unforeseen liabilities or risks relating to integration of the acquired business may arise; and other presently unknown or unforeseen factors. Other risk factors are detailed in Eversource Energy's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and updated as necessary, and are available on Eversource Energy's website at www.eversource.com and on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. All such factors are difficult to predict and contain uncertainties that may materially affect Aquarion or Aquarion Water Company's actual results, many of which are beyond our control. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements; each speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, except as required by federal securities laws, and Aquarion Water Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement or statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Media Contact: Peter Fazekas Director Corporate Communications Aquarion Water Company Phone: (203) 336-7651 [email protected] SOURCE Aquarion Company TOKYO and HENNIGSDORF, Germany, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Astellas Pharma Inc. (TSE:4503, President and CEO: Kenji Yasukawa, Ph.D., "Astellas") and Pantherna Therapeutics GmbH (CEO:Klaus Giese, Ph.D., "Pantherna") today announced that the companies have entered into a new technology evaluation agreement for research to generate mRNA-based regenerative medicine programs using direct reprogramming (transdifferentiation)*. This agreement expands the scope of the technology evaluation agreement for research, which Astellas and Pantherna entered into in 2021, to include new target organ. Pantherna owns a proprietary platform of state-of-the-art, unique mRNA molecules (PTXmRNAs) for enhancing the efficiency of mRNA actions in the body. Under the new agreement, Pantherna's mRNA platform and Astellas' world-class drug discovery capabilities will be combined to promote research on the generation of regenerative medicine programs for new target organ using a direct reprogramming approach. Astellas will be responsible for providing drug discovery ideas, preparing candidate compounds for technology evaluation, and performing research aimed at developing this therapeutic modality, while Pantherna will be responsible for providing technical information and development support. "We are excited about this expansion of our collaboration with Astellas," said Pantherna's Chief Executive Officer, Klaus Giese, Ph.D. "We feel honored that Astellas, as a leading pharmaceutical company, has underscored their interest in leveraging the unique aspects of our proprietary therapeutic mRNA technology." "Through this agreement, which expands the scope of our collaboration with Pantherna, we will create innovative regenerative medicine programs for new target organ, and we expect that we will be able to thereby expand the treatment options for diseases with high unmet medical needs." said Taiji Sawamoto, Ph.D., Executive Vice President, Applied Research & Operations, at Astellas. "The collaboration with Pantherna is an initiative which synergistically integrates Astellas' expertise with mRNA as a therapeutic modality and its capabilities cultivated in the research field of direct reprogramming, and will promote the development of next-generation treatments using a new modality/technology based on the Focus Area approach strategy." * Direct reprogramming: Direct conversion of the fate of cells without passing through the pluripotent state. https://www.astellas.com/en/science/direct-reprogramming-research-unit About Astellas Astellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. We are promoting the Focus Area Approach that is designed to identify opportunities for the continuous creation of new drugs to address diseases with high unmet medical needs by focusing on Biology and Modality. Furthermore, we are also looking beyond our foundational Rx focus to create Rx+ healthcare solutions that combine our expertise and knowledge with cutting-edge technology in different fields of external partners. Through these efforts, Astellas stands on the forefront of healthcare change to turn innovative science into value for patients. For more information, please visit our website at https://www.astellas.com/en. About Pantherna Pantherna Therapeutics is a privately held biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class therapeutics for vascular diseases. Pantherna's innovative technology platform is based on advanced lipid nanoparticles for the target-specific, selective delivery and expression of therapeutic mRNA drugs in organs and tissues such as the endothelium. Pantherna Therapeutics was recently awarded with a 2022 Pharma Trend Honor for its lead candidate PAN004 in the category "Most Innovative Product: Leap Innovations-Nucleic Acid-Based Drug Development" (https://businesswire.com/news/home/20220916005215/en/Pharma-Trend-Honors-the-Best-Pharmaceutical-Companies-and-the-Most-Innovative-Products_2022). Pantherna is based in Hennigsdorf, Brandenburg (Innovationsforum) close to Berlin, Germany. For more information, please visit our website at https://pantherna-therapeutics.com/. Cautionary Notes (Astellas) In this press release, statements made with respect to current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of Astellas. These statements are based on management's current assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (i) changes in general economic conditions and in laws and regulations, relating to pharmaceutical markets, (ii) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (iii) delays in new product launches, (iv) the inability of Astellas to market existing and new products effectively, (v) the inability of Astellas to continue to effectively research and develop products accepted by customers in highly competitive markets, and (vi) infringements of Astellas' intellectual property rights by third parties. Information about pharmaceutical products (including products currently in development) which is included in this press release is not intended to constitute an advertisement or medical advice. SOURCE Astellas Pharma Inc. Leading national staffing franchise expands North Carolina footprint with new location GASTONIA, N.C., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AtWork, a rapidly growing national staffing franchise announced today the opening of its new office in Gastonia, North Carolina, extending the company's overall reach in the state. The location is operated by Market Manager Don Monteith and is located at 839 Majestic Ct., Suite 39, Gastonia, North Carolina 28054. "We're so happy to see AtWork further expand in North Carolina under Don's leadership," said Jason Leverant, President and COO of AtWork. "AtWork's national success is a testament to hardworking staffing professionals like Don and the expertise, tools, and resources of AtWork's national franchise network. It is no mystery why the company continues to rank among the best staffing franchises in the nation." Citing Gastonia's strong local economy and a desire to provide local businesses and candidates with an elevated hiring experience, Monteith is confident in the success of the new office. "I've been in the Gaston County market since 1995 and have been very successful in helping companies find a better-quality candidate by working with great people and being involved in the community," said Monteith. "The area is very tight knit community with many opportunities and business leaders are always willing to work with locally owned and operated companies that support the community." The new office will provide staffing services to the manufacturing, warehousing, office/clerical industries, as well as focusing on government contracts facilitating temporary, contract to hire, and full-time placements. The business may be reached at 704-251-0275 or by visiting AtWork.com/Gastonia. SOURCE AtWork Group AUBURN, Ala., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Integrated Financial Leadership Program, or IFLP, at Auburn University's Harbert College of Business is leading the way in producing some of the very best financial students in the world. The Integrated Financial Leadership Program at Auburn Universitys Harbert College of Business is leading the way in producing some of the very best financial students in the world. Student accomplishments include the extraordinary record of the Financial Management Association chapter, which secured top international honors at the 2022 Kroll One Team Challenge for the second straight year. The team has taken the national title for the past three years. The accomplishments of Auburn's IFLP students include the extraordinary record of the university's chapter of the Financial Management Association, or FMA, which secured top international honors at the 2022 Kroll One Team Challenge for the second straight year in May in London (the team has taken the national title for the past three years). This prestigious international contest pits teams from hundreds of colleges representing some of the highest-ranked programs in business education in the world who square off to conduct an analysis of a hypothetical company, establish a valuation and then develop a business strategy. Since its inception in 2014, Auburn's FMA has been recognized as the premiere organization for preparing students for elite finance careers through professional development, industry exposure and alumni engagement. The exclusive student honor society in the Harbert College of Business consistently helps place Harbert graduates into some of the nation's top investment banking firms, including Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, Truist, Wells Fargo and Regions, among others. Auburn's fifth-annual FMA Summit took place on Sept. 30, and will include keynotes, breakout sessions, panel discussions, a rooftop reception overlooking the Auburn campus and the Summit Tailgate. But the Auburn FMA's leadership in finance is just one of the components of the IFLP program that demonstrate how uniquely valuable this flagship initiative has become. Real-World Investment Experience Matters, Too The Auburn Student Investment Fund, or ASIF, within the IFLP works to foster members' interests in financial markets to help students develop investment analysis skills while instilling in each member the high standards of Wall Street investment ethics. ASIF members utilize Bloomberg terminals, SEC filings, current news and private equity research to analyze and manage their now $530,000 fund's investments in equities and other investment vehicles. A Tradition Continues Another highlight is the recent $3.2 million expansion of the Harbert Investment Center, a world-class, finance student-oriented center equipped with 12 Bloomberg terminals, a training center and collaboration spaces designed to accommodate a wide range of educational and professional development resources and services. The lab itself began in 2007 thanks to Raymond J. Harbert's first gift to Auburn's College of Business, well before his landmark endowment that resulted in the school being named The Raymond J. Harbert College of Business in 2013. That initial investment has since been expanded by donations of time, energy and financial resources from Harbert and numerous other alumni, business partners and even students themselves over the years. Joe Hanna, Regions Bank Professor and interim dean at Harbert, noted all the people who help make these initiatives possible. "We are grateful for the vision of Raymond Harbert and all the others whose commitment and financial support have been so critical to the success of the Financial Lab and the IFLP, which includes both FMA and the ASIF. These entities have become the pillars of undergraduate and post-graduate finance education at the Harbert College of Business today," said Hanna. Hanna also pointed to the students, faculty, alumni and business partners responsible for the IFLP's success. "The Integrated Financial Leadership Program at Auburn represents the very best we have to offer our students and business partners who support our mission," said Hanna. "While success requires many contributions, I'd like to specifically acknowledge Tracy Richard, a faculty member in Harbert's Department of Finance, for her extraordinary leadership in helping to establish and build the IFLP into what it is today." Richard concurred that Harbert finance students are making an impact: "On the world stage, not only are we winning competitions year after year, but we're also placing our students into career opportunities at some of the top investment banks on Wall Street. I couldn't be more excited about that." Nick Iannone, a junior in finance at Harbert and leader of this year's winning FMA team, put the value of the IFLP, the FMA and recently expanded Financial Lab facilities of the Harbert Investment Center this way: "The 'secret' to Harbert's unprecedented record of success in international competitions and in securing promising positions at premier financial institutions is two-fold: The willingness of all team members to go above and beyond. The tremendous, virtually unlimited support we are blessed with here at Auburn ." SOURCE Auburn University NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Automotive Tow Bars Market report has been added to Technavio's offering. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Technavio is proudly partnering with more than 100 Fortune 500 companies for over 16 years. The potential growth difference for the automotive tow bars market between 2022 and 2026 is USD 1.21 bn. To get the exact yearly growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Buy Sample Report. Automotive Tow Bars Market Dynamics: Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Automotive Tow Bars Market 2022-2026 Market Driver Market Challenges The market expansion for automobile tow bars is primarily driven by tow bars that function as the best towing equipment. The application benefits of tow bars, which make them exceptional towing equipment, are what essentially drives the global market for vehicle tow bars. One of the most popular pieces of aftermarket towing equipment for towing applications is automotive tow bars. Operators of trailers, flat-bed pickup trucks, and SUVs typically employ tow bars since these vehicles typically have greater pulling power. Tow bars are a simple piece of towing equipment that takes little effort and installation time to place on a vehicle's rear bumper. However, factors such as the slowdown in automobile sales worldwide will challenge market growth. Request Free Sample Report. Automotive Tow Bars Market Vendors The automotive tow bars market report is segmented by Type (nonretractable and retractable) and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa). North America will be the leading region with 40% of the market's growth during the forecast period. The major market vendors are A1 Towing Ltd., ACPS Automotive GmbH, AL KO SE, Anker Towbars Ltd., Bosal Nederland BV, BTA Towing Equipment, CURT Manufacturing LLC, David Murphy Towing, GDW NV, Hayman Reese, Horizon Global Corp, LKQ Specialty Products Group, McCabe Towbars, North Shore Towbars, PCT Automotive Ltd, Pulliam Enterprises Inc, ROADMASTER Inc, SUN AUTOMOBILE Co Ltd, Tow-Trust Towbars Ltd., and Weigh Safe. Some Companies Mentioned with their Offerings A1 Towing Ltd.: The company offers automotive tow bars such as fixed flange ball tow bars, and fixed swan neck tow bars. The company offers automotive tow bars such as fixed flange ball tow bars, and fixed swan neck tow bars. ACPS Automotive GmbH: The company offers automotive tow bars such as retractable tow bars, and detachable tow bars. The company offers automotive tow bars such as retractable tow bars, and detachable tow bars. AL KO SE : The company offers machines, pressed parts, and welded assemblies for the automotive industry. The company offers machines, pressed parts, and welded assemblies for the automotive industry. Bosal Nederland BV: The company offers various types of Exhaust Systems such as Catalytic Converters, Diesel Particulate Filters, and others. The company offers various types of Exhaust Systems such as Catalytic Converters, Diesel Particulate Filters, and others. CURT Manufacturing LLC: the company manufactures towing products such as towing trailer hitches, ball mounts, cargo management, security, and electrical products. To gain access to more vendor profiles with their key offerings available with Technavio, Click Here Related Reports: Vehicle to Grid Chargers Market by End-user and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The vehicle-to-grid (V2G) chargers market share is expected to increase by USD 8.85 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 33.37%. CNG Powertrain Market by Vehicle Type and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The CNG powertrain market share is expected to increase by USD 90.10 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 17.6%. Automotive Tow Bars Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of almost 4.15% Market growth 2022-2026 $1.21 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 4.05 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 40% Key consumer countries US, Canada, China, UK, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled A1 Towing Ltd., ACPS Automotive GmbH, AL KO SE, Anker Towbars Ltd., Bosal Nederland BV, BTA Towing Equipment, CURT Manufacturing LLC, David Murphy Towing, GDW NV, Hayman Reese, Horizon Global Corp, LKQ Specialty Products Group, McCabe Towbars, North Shore Towbars, PCT Automotive Ltd, Pulliam Enterprises Inc, ROADMASTER Inc, SUN AUTOMOBILE Co Ltd, Tow-Trust Towbars Ltd., and Weigh Safe Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and future consumer dynamics, and 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. 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 Type 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 between 2021 and 2026 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers Exhibit 18: Chart on 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 Type 5.1 Market segments Exhibit 24: Chart on Type - Market share 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 25: Data Table on Type - Market share 2021-2026 (%) 5.2 Comparison by Type Exhibit 26: Chart on Comparison by Type Exhibit 27: Data Table on Comparison by Type 5.3 Non retractable - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 28: Chart on Non retractable - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 29: Data Table on Non retractable - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 30: Chart on Non retractable - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 31: Data Table on Non retractable - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.4 Retractable - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 32: Chart on Retractable - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 33: Data Table on Retractable - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 34: Chart on Retractable - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 35: Data Table on Retractable - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.5 Market opportunity by Type Exhibit 36: Market opportunity by Type ($ 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 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 42: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 43: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 44: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 45: Data Table on North America - 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 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 50: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 51: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 52: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 53: Data Table on APAC - 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 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 59: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 60: Chart on 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 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 63: Data Table on 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 Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 70: Chart on Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 71: Data Table on Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 72: Chart on Canada - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 73: Data Table on Canada - 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 UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 78: Chart on UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 79: Data Table on UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 80: Chart on UK - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 81: Data Table on UK - 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 A1 Towing Ltd. Exhibit 89: A1 Towing Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 90: A1 Towing Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 91: A1 Towing Ltd. - Key offerings 10.4 ACPS Automotive GmbH Exhibit 92: ACPS Automotive GmbH - Overview Exhibit 93: ACPS Automotive GmbH - Product / Service Exhibit 94: ACPS Automotive GmbH - Key offerings 10.5 Bosal Nederland BV Exhibit 95: Bosal Nederland BV - Overview Exhibit 96: Bosal Nederland BV - Product / Service Exhibit 97: Bosal Nederland BV - Key news Exhibit 98: Bosal Nederland BV - Key offerings 10.6 David Murphy Towing Exhibit 99: David Murphy Towing - Overview Exhibit 100: David Murphy Towing - Product / Service Exhibit 101: David Murphy Towing - Key offerings 10.7 Hayman Reese Exhibit 102: Hayman Reese - Overview - Overview Exhibit 103: Hayman Reese - Product / Service - Product / Service Exhibit 104: Hayman Reese - Key offerings 10.8 Horizon Global Corp Exhibit 105: Horizon Global Corp - Overview Exhibit 106: Horizon Global Corp - Business segments Exhibit 107: Horizon Global Corp - Key offerings Exhibit 108: Horizon Global Corp - Segment focus 10.9 LKQ Specialty Products Group Exhibit 109: LKQ Specialty Products Group - Overview Exhibit 110: LKQ Specialty Products Group - Product / Service Exhibit 111: LKQ Specialty Products Group - Key offerings 10.10 PCT Automotive Ltd Exhibit 112: PCT Automotive Ltd - Overview Exhibit 113: PCT Automotive Ltd - Product / Service Exhibit 114: PCT Automotive Ltd - Key offerings 10.11 Pulliam Enterprises Inc Exhibit 115: Pulliam Enterprises Inc - Overview Exhibit 116: Pulliam Enterprises Inc - Product / Service Exhibit 117: Pulliam Enterprises Inc - Key offerings 10.12 ROADMASTER Inc Exhibit 118: ROADMASTER Inc - Overview Exhibit 119: ROADMASTER Inc - Product / Service Exhibit 120: ROADMASTER Inc - Key offerings 11 Appendix 11.1 Scope of the report 11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist Exhibit 121: Inclusions checklist Exhibit 122: Exclusions checklist 11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 123: Currency conversion rates for US$ 11.4 Research methodology Exhibit 124: Research methodology Exhibit 125: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 126: Information sources 11.5 List of abbreviations Exhibit 127: List of abbreviations About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio Designed to leave no trace, the art installation highlights Bank of the West's work with Sustainable Surf to restore sea kelp forests SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of the West, a subsidiary of BNP Paribas, is bringing awareness to the urgent need to protect kelp forests with its latest marketing campaign, "Before it Disappears." Bank of the West commissioned artist Andres Amador to create a sand billboard on Dillon Beach in Northern California to bring attention to the threat climate change poses to coastal ecosystems, and the role finance can play in advancing a more sustainable future. Before it Disappears: Bank of the West creates first disappearing billboard for a disappearing habitat Designed to leave no trace, the sand art installation highlights Bank of the Wests work with Sustainable Surf to restore sea kelp forests. Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9078351-bank-of-the-west-sustainability/ "When you deposit money in the bank, it goes out into the world to finance things," said Ben Stuart, Head of Growth & Transformation and Chief Marketing Officer at Bank of the West. "Putting your money into institutions that align with your values is one of the most impactful actions you can take as a consumer or business. Our Money Matters survey found only 23 percent of Americans know what their bank finances. We hope 'Before It Disappears' raises awareness about the connection between banking and the environment." In some parts of California, more than 90% of kelp forests have disappeared over the past 10 years. Kelp forests play a critical role in protecting the planet by helping to sequester carbon and reduce the impact of climate change. Through Sustainable Surf's SeaTrees program, Bank of the West has helped fund the restoration of over 3,000 square feet of wild kelp forests along the Palos Verdes peninsula. "At Sustainable Surf, our mission is to protect ocean health and we take a systems change approach," said Michael Stewart, Co-founder and Director at California-based nonprofit, Sustainable Surf. "Where we bank can either support or detract from our goal. That's why we switched to Bank of the West. Not only do they restrict the financing of activities that are harmful to the planet, they are actively funding initiatives, like our SeaTrees project, that make a measurable positive impact in the world." Bank of the West offers the 1% for the Planet Checking Account which gives back to environmental non-profits, like Sustainable Surf, through the 1% for the Planet organization at no cost to the customer. Additionally, the mobile app associated with the account includes a carbon tracking tool to educate consumers about the estimated carbon impact of their debit card purchases. To learn more about sustainable finance or sign up for the 1% for the Planet Checking Account, visit bankofthewest.com. About Sustainable Surf Sustainable Surf is a California-based nonprofit founded in 2011 that uses the power of surfing to inspire the radical transformation needed to protect ocean health and reverse climate change. Globally recognized programs, like SeaTrees and the ECOBOARD Project, are "onramps" for brands and individuals to have a direct and measurable impact. For more information, please visit: https://www.sustainablesurf.org/ About Bank of the West At Bank of the West, we know money deposited in a bank has the power to finance positive change. So we are taking action to ensure our activities help protect the planet, improve people's lives, and strengthen communities. We are redefining banking for a better future by focusing on areas where we believe we can have a real impact: supporting energy transition, helping enable women entrepreneurs, and financing innovative start-ups. As the bank for a changing world, Bank of the West is committed to sustainable finance along with our parent company BNP Paribas. Through Digital Channels and offices across the U.S., Bank of the West provides financial tools and resources to more than 2 million individuals, families and businesses. 2022 Bank of the West. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Doing business in South Dakota as Bank of the West California. SOURCE Bank of the West The Partnership with EntityMed Pioneers an Exclusive Clinical-Grade AI Simulator NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Founded in 2015, BeautyFix Medspa is an award-winning medspa and plastic surgery center, providing innovative treatments and best-in-class hospitality at the intersection of e-commerce, technology, and advanced aesthetics. With multiple locations across the East Coast including Manhattan, Westchester, and West Hartford, Connecticut, they plan to open additional clinics by the end of 2022. BeautyFix Medspa Launches The FIRST Ever Medically Accurate Aesthetics Simulation (PRNewsfoto/BeautyFix Medspa) BeautyFix Medspa Launches The FIRST Ever Medically Accurate Aesthetics Simulation (PRNewsfoto/BeautyFix Medspa) BeautyFix Medspa Launches The FIRST Ever Medically Accurate Aesthetics Simulation (PRNewsfoto/BeautyFix Medspa) BeautyFix Medspa Launches The FIRST Ever Medically Accurate Aesthetics Simulation (PRNewsfoto/BeautyFix Medspa) Today, BeautyFix announces the launch of their new Aesthetics Simulation technology , accessible on any device or web browser. This innovative technology initiates a high-tech patient experience that allows potential clients to simulate their aesthetic results using software developed by digital health company EntityMed. This highly intuitive Aesthetics Simulation software is the first ever clinical-grade, tech-enabled AI simulator for injectables available in the U.S. market, and has been tested on over 10,000 patients. By simply uploading a picture to the app, or by taking a photo in one of their in-clinic kiosks, clients can quickly and easily adjust and envision what they'll look like by adding dermal fillers and/or toxins to various areas of the face. They will also be able to visualize an increase or decrease in any number of syringes in real-time - without having to be injected first. "This exclusive technology will enable BeautyFix Medspa to not only digitally connect with clients and address any fears or inhibitions, but also provide incredibly realistic images of desired results," said Maya Benayoun, Co-CEO of BeautyFix Medspa. "The partnership with EntityMed demonstrates our commitment to being the most technologically advanced medspa in the U.S, while providing an exceptional, seamless customer service experience for our patients." For clients who have fears of looking unnatural, this cutting edge technology provides a realistic visualization of a patient's post-treatment appearance in just 30 seconds, using a sophisticated set of AI algorithms. This software will support BeautyFix's expert team of clinicians to visually demonstrate to patients what different amounts of filler or toxin may be needed to produce the results they desire. "Our state of the art technology was developed by aesthetic professionals - for aesthetic professionals," said Lior Yadin, CEO of EntityMed. "By partnering with BeautyFix Medspa, we are able to usher in a new era for injectables in America by uniting our AI simulator with their all-star team of certified medical professionals." BeautyFix Medspa is widely recognized for their team of top doctors and beauty industry experts who provide simple, effective treatments in an inclusive, accessible environment. Start your aesthetic journey with BeautyFix Medspa and instantly see how a LipFix: Filler, WrinkleFix: Botox, or other treatment will look, in real time. About BeautyFix Medspa: Founded in 2015, BeautyFix Medspa is an award-winning medspa and plastic surgery center, providing innovative treatments and best-in-class hospitality at the intersection of e-commerce, technology, and advanced aesthetics. With multiple locations across the East Coast including Manhattan, Westchester, and Connecticut, BeautyFix aims to deliver a superior brand experience by elevating the medspa industry with a focus on hospitality, transparency, and community. @Beautyfixmedspa About EntityMed: EntityMed is a digital health company that has developed an artificial intelligence software that predicts the result of aesthetic procedures with high clinical accuracy. This innovation realistically visualizes the post-treatment appearance (toxins/fillers) by using a set of sophisticated AI algorithms. SOURCE BeautyFix Medspa Increase in the demand for advanced communication technologies, surge in investments in proximity marketing by prominent players in the market, rise in adoption of smartphone devices among people, and increase in the standard of living, and persistent technological advancements are expected to drive the growth of the global BLE beacon market. PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report titled, "BLE Beacon Market by Type (iBeacon, Eddystone, Others), by Application (Proximity Marketing, Asset Tracking, Indoor Navigation, Others), by Industry Vertical (Retail, Healthcare, Travel and Tourism, BFSI, Automotive, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20192030". According to the report, the global BLE beacon industry was valued at $2 billion in 2019, and is projected to reach $69.2 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 36.9% from 2022 to 2030. Download Free Sample Report (296 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, Figures): https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/10770 Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities Increase in the demand for advanced communication technologies, surge in investments in proximity marketing by prominent players in the market, rise in adoption of smartphone devices among people, and increase in the standard of living, and persistent technological advancements drive the growth of the global BLE beacon market. In addition, rise in internet penetration across the globe and prevalence of innovative technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) are expected to create ample opportunities for the industry. COVID-19 Impact Analysis The outbreak of COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the growth of the global BLE beacon market, owing to the occurrence of lockdowns in various countries across the globe. Lockdowns resulted in the closure of various manufacturing facilities, including those revolving around gadgets and electronics. In addition, the shortage of workforce and essential raw materials during the pandemic further aggravated the impact on the market. The Retail Segment to Lead the Trail Based on industry vertical, the retail segment held the largest market share in 2019, holding more than half of the global market. In sports, starting from the players themselves, beacons can be attached to the uniforms of team members and used to track their real-time performance for improvement and training. In addition, airports use beacon technology in conjunction with mobile apps to deliver real-time "day of travel" information directly to passengers at the airport. The rise in adoption of BLE Beacon in aviation and stadiums offer growth opportunities for the BLE Beacon market. Hence, expected to emerge as the fastest growing segment of the market. In addition, the same segment is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. The report includes analysis of the healthcare, travel and tourism, BFSI, automotive, and others. The Ibeacon Segment to Maintain the lion's share Based on type, the ibeacon segment held the largest market share in 2019, holding more than two-fifths of the global market. Beacon opened doors to a host of opportunities for location-data and proximity marketing. This protocol enables seamless interactivity between iOS and Android devices, and iBeacon hardware, such as BLE beacons. This boosted the growth of the segment. In addition, the same segment is predicted to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. However, the others segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 39.0% during the forecast period. Purchase Inquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/10770 The Proximity Marketing Segment to dominate Based on application, the proximity marketing segment held the largest market share in 2021, holding nearly three-fifths of the global market. The growth is mainly because more and more companies are adopting BLE beacons to capture a vast collection of consumer data, which help these brands to engage better with their customers, improving customer experience as proximity marketing is gaining steam, which is making it the largest segment of the market. The indoor navigation segment, on the other hand, is expected to cite the fastest CAGR of 40.0% during the forecast period. All kinds of intricate buildings use indoor navigation technology. These consist of stadiums, shopping centers, medical facilities, offices, and museums. For instance, through the American Airlines app, BLE beacons are used by airlines to provide location-based information. Users of the American Airlines app can access data such as the closest security checkpoint, time of boarding, and distance to the gate. Consequently, forming it the fastest growing segment. Asia-Pacific Region to cite the fastest CAGR Based on region, the market across the Asia-Pacific region is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. This is because infrastructure development in emerging countries such as China and India offer opportunities for the BLE Beacon market. Asia-Pacific occupies a major share in the BLE Beacon market, owing to the high adoption of internet of things (IoT) technology and the growing retail industry. In addition, the same region is expected to cite the fastest CAGR of 38.8% during the forecast period. The North America region, on the other hand, held the largest market share in 2021, holding two-fifths of the global market. Enquire for Customization with Detailed Analysis of COVID-19 Impact in Report @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-for-customization/10770 Leading Players of the Market: UFO Beacons Estimote Inc. K2B Solutions Apple Inc., Mobstac Inc. Proximity Solutions JK Tech, Bluecats Bluvision Onyx Beacon Kontakt GCell Google LLC (Alphabet) Accent Systems GeLo Inc. Hewlett Packard Enterprise MobileCoderz Technologies Pvt Ltd. Trending Reports in Semiconductor Industry (Book Now with 10% Discount): Hearables Market Expected to Reach $93.90 billion by 2026 Streaming Devices Market Expected to Reach $18.97 billion by 2027 | CAGR of 13.2% Bluetooth Smart Plugs Market is Expected to Reach $5.38 billion by 2030 Optical Switches Market Expected to Reach $13.96 billion by 2030 | CAGR of 11.20% Smart Beacon Market Expected to Reach $103.94 billion by 2030 About Us Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. 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. Contact: David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285, +1-503-894-6022 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1(855)550-5975 [email protected] Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/reports-store/semiconductor-and-electronics Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research State leaders failed to address shortcomings and inequities in the Medi-Cal system in procurement decision OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Shield of California today launched a public campaign asking Californians to speak up and make their voices heard by telling the state to undo its failed process for choosing health plans to serve Medi-Cal beneficiaries. Blue Shield of California Asks Californians to Voice their Concerns about the Future of Medi-Cal The state's preliminary decision intends to award contracts to national, for-profit companies that are beholden to Wall Street and lack engagement with local communities. The decision puts access to quality care at risk for the millions of Californians who depend on Medi-Cal. Blue Shield of California has appealed the state's decision, which did not include any California-based nonprofit health plans. The state also failed to provide meaningful opportunities for the voices of the state's Medi-Cal beneficiaries, physicians, and organizations that serve local communities to be heard in the process. The public campaign includes statewide digital advertising that underscores the consequences for Medi-Cal beneficiaries if the decision is not reversed. It also includes a website, StandUpForHealthcare.com, that provides information about the decision and how all Californians can respond and help their fellow residents. In an "Open Letter to Californians," Blue Shield of California President and CEO Paul Markovich noted this year's historic Medi-Cal procurement was an opportunity to address the shortcomings and inequities in the old system and create one that is innovative and advances health equity. "But that didn't happen," he wrote. "It was a breach of trust with the very communities whose health and lives depend on Medi-Cal. Californians deserve better." Blue Shield encourages Californians to learn about this important and urgent issue, and to insist that the state revisit the process and make choices that meet people's needs and the state's goals. Contact information can be found online here. "The State of California undertook this procurement with great intentions, but the actual process has failed to match their words," said Kristen Cerf, President and CEO of Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan, a subsidiary of Blue Shield of California that serves Medi-Cal beneficiaries. "The message of this campaign is that it's not too late for the state to change course and make choices that will advance innovation and health equity for everyone." About Blue Shield of California Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax-paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with 4.7 million members, 7,800 employees, and $22.9 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid, and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed $120 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years to have an impact on California communities. For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook. CONTACT: Erika Conner Blue Shield of California 510-607-2359 [email protected] SOURCE Blue Shield of California METRO CHICAGO, Ill., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Calamos Investments, a global investment management firm, announced that it has hired private banker Joe Weidenbach, 30-year veteran and Regional President of U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management as Head of Calamos Wealth Management. Calamos President and CEO John Koudounis stated, "We continue to execute our strategic growth plan which includes the further success and expansion of our wealth management business. Joe brings extensive expertise to the firm, and we welcome him to our deep bench of executive talent. In addition to his breadth of experience, Joe shares our relentless dedication to client service and excellence in investment management, two key elements to our ongoing success." As Regional President and senior executive of U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, Weidenbach served high-net-worth individuals and families, and was responsible for performance, strategy, and execution of the bank's East region. In his previous position as Market Leader for J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Chicago, he consistently generated top-line revenue growth, built client solutions across product and service lines, and maintained close to a 100% client retention rate. Prior to his private banking role, he spent several years as senior executive for J.P. Morgan's Institutional Trust business. "Over the past six years, John Koudounis and I have collaborated to determine the successful direction of the firm. Joe will guide our team of advisors and build on the success of Calamos Wealth Management going forward. Providing our clients with a comprehensive approach to financial planning designed to grow and protect their wealth remains just as critical today as it was when I founded the firm almost 50 years ago," said John Calamos Sr., Founder, Chairman & Global Chief Investment Officer. "Calamos has a distinguished heritage that has seen investors through the ups and downs of market cycles for nearly 50 years. Under the leadership of John Calamos and John Koudounis, the firm is well-positioned for the future by continuing to innovate and deliver world-class products and services for clients. I am proud to join this prestigious organization and look forward to working with the entire team to help expand on its success," Weidenbach said. Weidenbach will join later in October and assumes the position held by Joe Nader. "We thank Joe for his years of service and wish him well in his new endeavors," Koudounis said. About Calamos Calamos Investments is a diversified global investment firm offering innovative investment strategies including alternatives, multi-asset, convertible, fixed income, equity, and sustainable equity. The firm offers strategies through separately managed portfolios, mutual funds, closed-end funds, private funds, and UCITS funds. Clients include major corporations, pension funds, endowments, foundations, and individuals, as well as the financial advisors and consultants who serve them. Headquartered in the Chicago metropolitan area, the firm also has offices in New York, San Francisco, Milwaukee, Portland (Oregon), and the Miami area. For more information, please visit www.calamos.com. *Calamos Investments LLC, referred to herein as Calamos Investments, is a financial services company offering such services through its subsidiaries: Calamos Advisors LLC, Calamos Wealth Management LLC, Calamos Investments LLP and Calamos Financial Services LLC. SOURCE Calamos Investments Casual Dining Leader Continues Growth Trajectory with Development in High-Trafficked Venues COSTA MESA, Calif., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), the creator of California-style pizza, announced the opening of a new franchise location at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The opening marks the brand's second location within the airport as CPK continues to expand across U.S. markets. Located within Terminal 6 at LAX, the new restaurant is owned and operated by Greg Plummer, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Concord Collective, a minority-owned airport concession operator. Greg Plummer, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Concord Collective and Giorgio Minardi, Executive Vice President of Global and Franchise Operations for CPK CPK team congratulating Greg Plummer on the new LAX Terminal 6 California Pizza Kitchen. "We are thrilled to partner with Concord Collective to provide a fresh, healthy, alternative dining option for the most discerning travelers," said Giorgio Minardi, Executive Vice President of Global and Franchise Operations for CPK. "Greg Plummer and his stellar team have a strong background in creating rich hospitality experiences at LAX, and they share in our commitment to bring the brand's signature California-inspired cuisine to travelers who pass through Terminal 6 at LAX from all over the world." CPK's new LAX location will provide guests with the full-service "California Casual" dining experience they have come to expect at all the brand's locations. The menu will feature a range of classic CPK dishes including hearth-baked pizzas - such as The Original BBQ Chicken, Thai Chicken, and California Club, - inventive salads, and crave-worthy pastas. The menu will also carry several new California-inspired breakfast items for travelers looking to fuel the start of their day. The new CPK at LAX builds on an already strong year for the brand, which expanded into Canada for the first time in August with the opening of its new Edmonton location and opened in Santiago International Airport early last month. New operators continue to be drawn to its attractive franchise model as additional CPK locations in Costa Rica and India are scheduled to open later this year. "California Pizza Kitchen's innovative business model, iconic cuisine, and hometown name recognition made it a perfect fit to add to our portfolio of brands at LAX," said Plummer. "We know CPK will be a welcomed and popular option for airport travelers in Los Angeles seeking a convenient choice when they fly." Plummer began his career in restaurant management at LAX in 2005. He and his Los Angeles-based team at Concord Collective recently made history at LAX with the recent acquisition of SSP America's LAX businesses, making the company the first Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) business to take over the entire portfolio of a major food and beverage concession operator. Together, the joint venture partners currently operate eight food and beverage outlets for Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield Airports (URW), the prime commercial developer and manager at LAX. "CPK with its fresh and healthy offerings is a perfect fit for our guests in Terminal 6," said Maral Matossian, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) General Manager, LAX. "We are excited to welcome another Concord Collective restaurant and are thrilled to see this ACDBE business continue to grow. It's a win for our guests and a win for our community." California Pizza Kitchen provides franchisees flexibility with customizable menus, design layouts, and multiple daypart offerings so that each location can individually align with consumer needs and thrive within their market. These key differentiators, along with a very high average unit volume, have positioned the brand as an attractive investment by experienced multi-unit franchisees. California Pizza Kitchen prioritizes catering to franchisees' needs, providing them with the tools and resources required, including expanding technology and mobile capabilities for each location, best-in-class training, and development in all areas of the business. To learn more about franchise development opportunities and available markets with California Pizza Kitchen, visit www.cpk.com/franchise. About California Pizza Kitchen In 1985, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) opened its first restaurant in Beverly Hills and introduced diners to gourmet California inspired pizza. With a passion for combining fresh, seasonal ingredients with flavor inspirations from around the world, today CPK is a global brand serving creative California cuisine in more than 180 restaurants across 10 countries and U.S. territories. From its innovative, hearth-baked pizzas such as The Original BBQ Chicken, Thai Chicken, and California Club, to inventive salads, and unique pasta dishes that combine the old world with the new, CPK does everything with an imaginative California-inspired twist that guests love. For more information, visit cpk.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Contact: Morgan Assenmacher Fish Consulting (754) 888-6312 [email protected] SOURCE California Pizza Kitchen CH4 Global to be featured as top innovator in Ag Tech, Dr. Meller to share his expertise in GHG reduction in the AgriTech and AgFood sectors. HENDERSON, Nev., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CH4 Global, Inc., today announced that its CEO and co-founder, Dr. Steve Meller, will present at two conferences in the Asia-Pacific region in October 2022. On Monday, October 10, at the Agri-Food-Tech 2035 Oceania Summit, Dr. Meller will co-lead a 45-minute breakout discussion on reducing agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG). The breakout will give attendees an opportunity to discuss new technologies being adopted by the industry as well as current hurdles. CH4 Global selected as one of the Asia-Pacific region's top 3 Ag Tech innovators. Tweet this The summit, which will take place October 10 and 11 at the Aotea Centre in Auckland, New Zealand, gathers leaders from the AgriTech and AgriFood sectors as well as policy makers and researchers, to focus on the role of AgriFood technology in enabling farmers and growers to reduce emissions and build more resilient growing systems in the face of rapid climate change. Learn more about the summit. In New Zealand and other parts of the world, agriculture is a major contributor of methane emissions. While discussion to date has focused on the cost of compliance to increased regulatory oversight, without adequate attention to how this primary sector can address climate change, the summit's agenda shines a spotlight on climate and actionable solutions. CH4 Global was also selected as one of the Asia-Pacific region's top 3 Ag Tech innovators by the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit. On Wednesday, October 26, Dr. Meller will present at the Innovation Showcase alongside the other honorees before a panel of investors who will dig deep into their company value propositions. The summit, which runs October 26 28 at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, will gather more than 900 global leaders to identify strategic priorities for building greater capacity, security, and resilience in Asia's agri-food system. Learn more about the event. About CH4 Global Founded in 2018, CH4 Global, Inc. is on an urgent mission to positively impact climate change worldwide. With expertise in turning ambitious ideas into successful, fit-for-purpose products, CH4 Global enables customers to radically reduce methane emissions in support of the 2-degree Celsius target. Its first line of methane-reducing cattle feed additives for feedlot cattle is derived from Asparagopsis Seaweed. If adopted for only 10% of the world's cattle, would deliver more climate benefit than decommissioning 50 million fossil-fueled cars. CH4 Global is headquartered in Henderson, NV, with subsidiaries in Australia and New Zealand. Learn more: www.ch4global.com Media Contacts North America & Europe Charlene Moore, Public Relations Officer [email protected] | P: +1 725 272 5732 | M: +1 831 331 5332 Australia & New Zealand For press inquiries in Asia, Australia and New Zealand Contact Verity Edwards, Hughes Public Relations and Communication Counsel [email protected] | P: 09 8412 4100 | M: 0412 678 942 SOURCE CH4 Global, Inc. Greatest Changes Were a 5.7 Percent Increase in West, and 3.3 Percent Decrease in Northeast, according to FAIR Health's Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker Telehealth Utilization in Nation as a Whole Relatively Stable NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Telehealth utilization, as measured by telehealth's share of all medical claim lines, varied by US region from June to July 2022, according to FAIR Health's Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker.1 Telehealth utilization rose in three of the four US census regionsMidwest, South and Westwith the greatest increase (5.7 percent) in the West, where telehealth utilization rose from 7.0 to 7.4 percent of medical claim lines; the South increased 4.9 percent and the Midwest 2.5 percent. In the Northeast, telehealth utilization fell 3.3 percent, from 6.0 percent of medical claim lines to 5.8 percent. Overall, national telehealth utilization increased 1.9 percent from June to July, after declining 3.7 percent from May to June, rising from 5.2 percent of medical claim lines in June to 5.3 percent in July. The data represent the privately insured population, including Medicare Advantage and excluding Medicare Fee-for-Service and Medicaid. FAIR Health Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker, July 2022, United States Specialties In July 2022, social worker remained the top-ranking telehealth specialty in all regions and nationally, as it had since February 2022. But in the South, social worker fell by 8.7 percent of telehealth claim lines in July 2022, with psychiatrist increasing by 8.1 percent, although that specialty remained in third place. Additionally in July 2022, primary care nonphysician and psychologist changed positions in the Midwest, with the former ending in third place and the latter in fourth place. In the Northeast, psychiatrist and psychologist changed positions, with the former ending in third place and the latter in fourth place. Diagnoses Nationally and in every region in July 2022, COVID-19 ranked second among telehealth diagnoses. This was the rank it also held in June 2022 everywhere but in the South, where COVID-19 ranked third in June. Also in July 2022, acute respiratory diseases and infections fell out of the top five telehealth diagnoses in the Northeast, with joint/soft tissue diseases and issues joining the list instead. In addition, acute respiratory diseases and infections fell out of the top five telehealth diagnoses in the West and was supplanted by endocrine and metabolic disorders. Procedure Codes In July 2022, the rankings of the top five telehealth procedure codes did not change nationally or in any region when compared to the prior five months. The number one telehealth procedure code nationally and in every region remained CPT2 90837, one-hour psychotherapy. Costs For July 2022, the Telehealth Cost Corner spotlighted the cost of CPT 96127, assessment of emotional or behavioral problems. Nationally, the median charge amount for this service when rendered via telehealth was $17.72, and the median allowed amount was $8.34.3 About the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker Launched in May 2020 as a free service, the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker uses FAIR Health data to track how telehealth is evolving from month to month. An interactive map of the four US census regions allows the user to view an infographic on telehealth in a specific month in the nation as a whole or in individual regions. Each infographic shows month-to-month changes in telehealth's percentage of medical claim lines, as well as that month's top five telehealth procedure codes, diagnoses and specialties. Additionally, in the Telehealth Cost Corner, a specific telehealth procedure code is featured, with its median charge amount and median allowed amount. FAIR Health President Robin Gelburd stated: "We welcome sharing these varying windows into telehealth utilization as it continues to evolve. This is one of the many ways we pursue our healthcare transparency mission." For the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker, click here. Follow us on Twitter @FAIRHealth About FAIR Health FAIR Health is a national, independent nonprofit organization that qualifies as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. It is dedicated to bringing transparency to healthcare costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support. FAIR Health possesses the nation's largest collection of private healthcare claims data, which includes over 38 billion claim records and is growing at a rate of over 2 billion claim records a year. FAIR Health licenses its privately billed data and data productsincluding benchmark modules, data visualizations, custom analytics and market indicesto commercial insurers and self-insurers, employers, providers, hospitals and healthcare systems, government agencies, researchers and others. Certified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as a national Qualified Entity, FAIR Health also receives data representing the experience of all individuals enrolled in traditional Medicare Parts A, B and D; FAIR Health includes among the private claims data in its database, data on Medicare Advantage enrollees. FAIR Health can produce insightful analytic reports and data products based on combined Medicare and commercial claims data for government, providers, payors and other authorized users. FAIR Health's systems for processing and storing protected health information have earned HITRUST CSF certification and achieved AICPA SOC 2 compliance by meeting the rigorous data security requirements of these standards. As a testament to the reliability and objectivity of FAIR Health data, the data have been incorporated in statutes and regulations around the country and designated as the official, neutral data source for a variety of state health programs, including workers' compensation and personal injury protection (PIP) programs. FAIR Health data serve as an official reference point in support of certain state balance billing laws that protect consumers against bills for surprise out-of-network and emergency services. FAIR Health also uses its database to power a free consumer website available in English and Spanish, which enables consumers to estimate and plan for their healthcare expenditures and offers a rich educational platform on health insurance. An English/Spanish mobile app offers the same educational platform in a concise format and links to the cost estimation tools. The website has been honored by the White House Summit on Smart Disclosure, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), URAC, the eHealthcare Leadership Awards, appPicker, Employee Benefit News and Kiplinger's Personal Finance. FAIR Health also is named a top resource for patients in Dr. Marty Makary's book The Price We Pay: What Broke American Health Careand How to Fix It and Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal's book An American Sickness: How Healthcare Became Big Business and How You Can Take It Back. For more information on FAIR Health, visit fairhealth.org. Contact: Rachel Kent Senior Director of Marketing FAIR Health 646-396-0795 [email protected] 1 A claim line is an individual service or procedure listed on an insurance claim. 2 CPT 2021 American Medical Association (AMA). All rights reserved. 3 A charge amount is the provider's undiscounted fee, which a patient may have to pay when the patient is uninsured, or when the patient chooses to go to a provider who does not belong to the patient's plan's network. An allowed amount is the total fee paid to the provider under an insurance plan. It includes the amount that the health plan pays and the part the patient pays under the plan's in-network cost-sharing provisions (e.g., copay or coinsurance if the patient has met the deductible). SOURCE FAIR Health ZURICH, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb Limited (NYSE: CB) will hold its third quarter earnings conference call on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern. The company expects to issue its third quarter earnings release and financial supplement after the market closes on Tuesday, October 25, 2022. These documents will be available on the company's investor website at investors.chubb.com. The earnings conference call will be available via live webcast at investors.chubb.com or by dialing 877-400-4403 (within the United States) or 332-251-2601 (international), passcode 1641662. Please refer to the Chubb website under Events and Presentations for details. A replay will be available after the call at the same location. To listen to the replay, click here to register and receive dial-in numbers. About Chubb Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 34,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com. SOURCE Chubb Limited Call Simplified Accelerates Clarus Growth NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Graham Healthcare Capital (GHCC) announced that its portfolio company, Clarus, has acquired Call Simplified, an innovative medical call automation software company, according to Rich Maradik, CEO of Clarus. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed. Call Simplified, based in California, was founded by Scott Reynolds and David L. Finke, MD, FACOG, in 2014, and has grown to serve providers across multiple states and specialties. The company's SaaS technology allows patients to submit after-hour requests electronically and be automatically routed to the after-hours on-call provider, resulting in the most accurate and fastest response times vs. voicemail-only services. Their web request technology allows patients and providers to bypass using a phone entirely, allowing requests to be completed three times faster. The acquisition will increase Clarus's existing customer base of 8,000 providers and administrators in physician offices. Maradik announced that Reynolds has joined Clarus as Head of Product. In commenting on the acquisition, Maradik said that Clarus was attracted to Call Simplified because its product complements and expands Clarus's patient call automation software. "Clarus chose Call Simplified because Scott has done a great job with their product," Maradik said. "It has features that, once incorporated into our existing product, enable us to grow our leadership position in call automation software for physicians' offices." He went on to say, "The Call Simplified acquisition will also allow us to quickly expand in Southern California, accelerating our organic growth. We're estimated to add more than 2,000 users before the end of year. And adding Scott to the team is an important part of continuing to expand the platform capabilities to better service patients, providers and administrators." Reynolds has more than 20 years of experience in SaaS technology, implementing innovative product solutions across many vertical markets, including healthcare. "I am excited to be a part of Clarus and the Graham Healthcare family," Reynolds said. "Rich and his team have demonstrated their commitment to innovation in call automation technology for the physician services segment of the healthcare industry. This is an outstanding opportunity to continue to develop unique solutions that help medical professionals respond quickly and accurately to their patients' needs." More information is available at grahamhealthcarecapital.com SOURCE Graham Healthcare Capital CHIGACO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As of Oct. 1, Ameren Illinois' price for electricity is up to 126 percent higher from a year ago, as Illinois prepares for what could be one of the most expensive winters in state history, the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) said in a consumer alert issued Monday. As of Oct. 1, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) reports that Ameren's non-summer per-kilowatt-hour (kWh) "price to compare"the rate customers should compare with alternative supplier offersis: 12.236 per kWh for 0-800 kWh; and 9.777 per kWh for usage over 800 kWh Note: The rate for the first 800 kWh of usage represents a 126 percent increase over the price last October. The "price to compare" includes the supply price, a transmission charge and a supply cost adjustment. Ameren does not profit off the price of electricitythey pass those costs onto customers with no markup. This rate is in effect through May 31, 2023. This past June, Ameren Illinois estimated that the higher prices will cost customers an average of about $50 a month extra. Adding to the pain is the fact that Ameren's natural gas price, which changes on a monthly basis, also has skyrocketed: 89.078 per therm (up 33.5 percent from last October). Note: Ameren's gas price changes monthly. Ameren does not profit off supply prices. CUB Executive Director David Kolata urged consumers to stay safe and visit CUBHelpCenter.com, an online resource that features information about the high prices; tips on energy efficiency; and details about energy assistance. "This winter, nobody should take risks to lower their utility bills," Kolata said. "The safest, most reliable way to fight these price spikes is through energy efficiency. Efficiency is about keeping your home safe and your bills more affordable. We're asking all Illinois consumers to look out for each other and make sure friends, family and neighbors are staying safe and warm." The energy price increases are due to a perfect storm of problems affecting consumers from coast to coast. Natural gas prices go through periodic spikes, and that volatility, which began in February of 2021, has kept winter prices at their highest levels since the winter of 2008-09. Other events, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Hurricane Ida in 2021, have helped to make a bad situation worse. Gas, which is often used to generate electricity, has helped push power prices to extreme levels across the nation. Plus, Central and Southern Illinois are dealing with potential constraints in reserve, or "capacity," power. CUB listed several key points for energy customers this winter: See if you qualify for energy assistance. The application process for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has reopened through May 31, 2023, or until funds are exhausted. Households at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for LIHEAP funding. To apply or learn more, visit www.helpillinoisfamilies.com or call the Help Illinois Families Assistance Line at 1-833-711-0374. Stay in contact with your utility. Consumers who are struggling should contact their utilities to see if they qualify for other energy assistance, inquire about payment plans to pay off debt and learn about energy efficiency programs. Keep the lines of communication open if you're having trouble this winter. Beware of alternative supplier rip-offs. Alternative electricity suppliers are impacted by the same market conditions that are causing utility prices to increase, so be careful about getting lured into bad deals. Be wary of low introductory rates that will skyrocket after a short period, and read the fine print for add-on fees that can raise the cost of the plan. Since 2015, Illinois consumers have lost more than $1 billion to alternative power suppliers. If your community has negotiated a power deal with a supplier, it's possible the price is lower than Ameren's supply rate. Contact your community and inquire whether it has a community power deal. If so, find out how the price compares with Ameren's supply price, and when the offer expires. Energy efficiency can help soften the blow of high prices. Energy efficiency is always important, and it's especially key at times like this. Weatherize your windows and doors to keep warm air in and cold air out. Set your thermostat at a safe level: 68 degrees when you're awake and home, and bump it down a few degrees when you're away or asleep. CUBHelpCenter.com has more tips. Consider a community solar deal to help ease costs. Community solar deals right now guarantee savings compared to Ameren's supply price. But be a careful shopper: Get more information at our special website, SolarInTheCommunity.com . (Note: Several of the offers have a waitlist, so check with the companies.) CUB is Illinois' leading nonprofit utility watchdog group. Created by the Illinois Legislature, CUB opened its doors in 1984 to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. Since then, CUB has saved consumers more than $20 billion by helping to block rate hikes and secure refunds. For more information, call CUB's Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit CUB's award-winning website, www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org. SOURCE Citizens Utility Board Both Colorado Automobile Dealer Association and Colorado Independent Automobile Dealer Association Give Exclusively Endorsement Colorado dealerships will now be able to process registration and title transactions electronically with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). dealerships will now be able to process registration and title transactions electronically with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). With streamlined processes that save time and money, dealers can finalize deals faster for their customers. Having a paperless process mitigates errors while providing a new standard in consumer protection and fraud prevention, which is inherent in paper processes. ATLANTA, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Automotive announces today the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) and Colorado Independent Automobile Dealers Association (CIADA) have both exclusively endorsed Dealertrack's In-State Registration and Title solution, giving dealers the ability to electronically process registration and title transactions with the Colorado DMV. Colorado Independent Automotive Dealers Association Colorado Automobile Dealers Association "Colorado joins 30 other state DMVs that have embraced and adopted digital processes to streamline vehicle registration and titling," said Tim Jackson, president and CEO of CADA. "It no longer needs to be a tedious process. This new offering provides consumer protection, fraud prevention and time saving benefits that our county clerks, dealerships and consumers will appreciate." Colorado's Legislature joined the growing number of state jurisdictions authorizing the use of electronic registration and titling services. Dealers and authorized users can now perform these important registration and titling services at their locations, allowing Coloradoans the ability to make fewer trips to the DMV to obtain their plates and registration cards. "Colorado DMV has taken another step in the right direction for local automotive dealers and car buyers," stated David Cardella, CEO of CIADA. "The momentum behind digitizing registration and title shows no signs of slowing and Colorado stands out for its forward thinking by redesigning processes to save everyone involved in the vehicle purchase time and money." The Dealertrack In-State Registration and Title solution helps dealerships complete deals faster and save on unnecessary costs when compared to a manual paper process. With this new platform, Colorado dealerships will be able to: Calculate exact taxes and fees and prepare transactions for the DMV in under four minutes Potentially save up to an average of $10,000 monthly per dealership location in unnecessary costs that have become inherent in manual documentation, shipping and handling processes monthly per dealership location in unnecessary costs that have become inherent in manual documentation, shipping and handling processes Achieve 70% faster turnaround on trade-ins when solution is paired with Dealertrack's Accelerated Title, which manages the payoff, lien, and title release process Save time and reduce errors related to re-keying by up to 90% when data is imported directly from the Dealer Management System (DMS) "With growth in automotive ecommerce expected to rise, digital tools that connect all aspects of the car buying process, such as registration and title, are more important than ever before," commented Kait Gavin, Vice President Operations, Dealer Services at Cox Automotive. "We congratulate Colorado dealerships and its DMV for adopting digital technology to make the car buying process easier and faster." For more information about this solution, visit our website. About Dealertrack Dealertrack provides industry-leading software solutions that give dealerships, lenders, and partners the confidence to thrive in an ever-changing automotive market. The company's integrated suite of powerful easy-to-use products and services helps dealerships, and their lending partners grow by increasing efficiency and improving decision-making. Dealertrack is part of the Cox Automotive family, a company that is transforming the way the world buys, sells, owns and uses cars. Dealertrackalong with its unmatched network of dealerships and lending partnersis improving the car buying experience by embracing the technologies that will shape the future of automotive retail. For more information about Dealertrack, visit www.dealertrack.com . About Cox Automotive Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using vehicles easier for everyone. The global company's more than 27,000 team members and family of brands, including Autotrader, Dealer.com, Dealertrack, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, NextGear Capital, VinSolutions, vAuto and Xtime, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with annual revenues of nearly $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com SOURCE Cox Automotive CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Data Catalog Market size is expected to grow from USD 0.7 billion in 2022 to USD 1.8 billion in 2027, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 22.0% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The major factors driving the growth of the Data Catalog Market include the shift toward digital transformation, increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=48918216 Browse in-depth TOC on "Data Catalog Market" 294 - Tables 51 - Figures 257 - Pages Based on component, the solution segment is projected to hold the largest market size during the forecast period Data catalog solutions play a vital role in many successful and large organizations, as many companies need to locate appropriate data for analysis. While accessing the data from various data sources, companies fall prey to heavy penalties because of non-compliance or exploitation of confidential information of customers or their clients through data breaching or by not adhering to compliance norms. Implementation of data catalog solutions would help organizations easily discover, tag, curate, and prepare data sources, thereby saving cost and time and providing a great value proposition for organizations and their clients in the long run. Data catalog solutions are increasingly being adopted by organizations to efficiently manage the growing volume of data to enhance productivity and maintain business continuity. The proliferation of data has led vendors, such as IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, and Informatica, to develop and design catalog solutions. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=48918216 Based on deployment, the On-premises segment is projected to hold the largest market size during the forecast period On-premises deployment of data catalog solutions enables organizations with significant improvements for data validation, standardization, and robust matching, as the deployment is done locally and with complete monitoring. By using on-premises data catalog solutions, different users can have access to the required data sets stored at multiple locations inside the organization and integrate them to facilitate the business processes, as per their requirements, through a centralized interface. Leading vendors, such as Informatica and Microsoft, offer on-premises solutions. Based on data consumer, the Business intelligence tools segment is expected to hold the highest market size during the forecast period Business intelligence combines business analytics, data mining, data visualization, data tools and infrastructure, and best practices to help organizations make more data-driven decisions. Data catalogs enable effective analytics for business intelligence teams by centralizing dashboards and automating the reporting process. The adoption of BI is rising, as enterprises need a statistical modeling technique to receive assistance for making various business-related decisions. BI tools, such as R and Hadoop, require deep technical expertise for developing and maintaining data models, algorithms, and queries. To gain a deep level of expertise, BI tools are fed with large volumes of data, which would be used to provide useful outputs. Due to this requirement, BI tools are considered one of the largest data consumers in the Data Catalog Market. Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=48918216 APAC is expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period The Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR in the Data Catalog Market during the forecast period, due to its growing technology adoption. Thus, businesses in the region have quickly identified the benefits of cloud technology as a facilitator of digital transformation. The region has a great scope for growth in the Data Catalog Market. It is focused on innovating and developing BI solutions that utilize data catalog technology in various verticals, such as telecom and IT, transportation, and BFSI. Japan, China, and India use data catalog tools and platforms across different business verticals to provide effective solutions. The rapid development of the Data Catalog Market in the Asia Pacific region can be attributed to the massive data growth in all industries across the region. Market Players Major vendors operating in the Data Catalog Market include IBM (US), Microsoft (US), TIBCO Software (US), Collibra (Belgium), Alation (US), Oracle (US), Google (US), Informatica (US), Alteryx (US), Zaloni (US), Cloudera (US), Talend (US), Ataccama (Canada), Quest software (Acquired Erwin), Tamr (US), Denodo (US), Tableau (US), AWS (US), Cambridge Semantics (US), Octopai (Israel), Alex Solutions (Australia), Immuta (US), Data.World (US), Solidatus (UK), Atlan (Singapore), Stemma (US), Castor (US), and Zeenea (France) Browse Adjacent Markets: Software and Services Market Research Reports & Consulting Data Governance Market by Component, Deployment Model, Organisation Size, Application (Risk Management, Incident Management, and Compliance Management), Vertical (Manufacturing, Healthcare and BFSI), and Region - Global Forecast to 2025 Data Discovery Market by Component, Functionality, Organization Size, Deployment Mode, Application, Vertical (BFSI, Healthcare and Life Sciences, Telecommunications and IT, Manufacturing), and Region - Global Forecast to 2025 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 7500 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions. Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve. MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "Knowledge Store" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/data-catalog-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/data-catalog.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets Debiopharm awards the winning scientists for the JCA (Japanese Cancer Association) Award for innovative, disruptive, and translational oncology research LAUSANNE, Switzerland , Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Debiopharm (www.debiopharm.com), a Swiss-based global biopharmaceutical company, today announced the two winners of JCA Mauvernay Award for breakthrough Japanese oncology research projects in 2 categories: Innovative and/or Disruptive Research Dr. Akihide Yoshimi and for Translational Research Prof. Mamiko Sakata-Yanagimoto. The winners were honored with trophies and a monetary prize during the live event of the 81st Annual Meeting of the Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) on Saturday, October 1st in Yokohama, Japan by Prof. Hideyuki Saya President of the JCA and Thierry Mauvernay, President of Debiopharm, and Bertrand Ducrey CEO of Debiopharm. "Japan and Switzerland share a variety of similar values such as commitment to excellence and professional diligence. With these values, we can maximize the chances that the next generation of drugs could result from collaboration between these two countries." expressed Thierry Mauvernay, President of Debiopharm. "Together with the JCA, Debiopharm hopes to encourage young scientists such as Drs Yoshimi and Sakata-Yanagimoto, to transfer their innovative research to the clinic and to the benefit of worldwide patients rapidly." "The previous winners of the Mauvernay Award have immediately become very well-known scientists in our country, becoming professors and leaders in significant institutes. Therefore, I would say that the Mauvernay Award is definitely a huge step for young cancer research scientists in our country." stated Prof. Hideyuki Saya, President of the JCA. Dr. Akihide Yoshimi's disruptive research at the National Cancer Center Research Institute, is aimed at understanding and targeting aberrant RNA splicing in hematological malignancies. He has contributed to the discovery of aberrant events in this process in tumor cells, identified key alterations in several splicing factors (SF) and provided insights into aberrant splicing and its association with key oncogenes (such as isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and myelocytomatosis (Myc)). This work within an emerging field could have important biological as well as therapeutic implications for patient with SF mutant hematologic malignancies (e.g. in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)). Prof. Mamiko Sakata-Yanagimoto's translational research at the Medicine Faculty of the University of Tsukuba is offering new insights into targeting intractable lymphomas with an elegant application of gene expression analysis in the aggressive angioimmunoblastic lymphoma (AITL). Her research started with the characterization of sequence of events between TET2 and RHOA mutations in the AITL patient samples (now included in the diagnostic criteria), continued with the identification of new actionable targets in the disease (RHOA/Vav1) and is currently focused on testing in the clinic therapeutic options using dasatinib to treat those patients. The JCA-Mauvernay Award Since 2005, the Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) and Debiopharm have co-organized the 'JCA-Mauvernay Award'. This prize illustrates the curiosity that drives researchers as well as the scientific cooperation between Japan and Switzerland. It aims to recognize the outstanding achievements in the field of oncology amongst Japanese researchers, in both the fundamental and the clinical aspects. The award has a total value of CHF 25'000. Debiopharm's commitment to patients Debiopharm develops innovative therapies that target high unmet medical needs in oncology and infectious diseases. Bridging the gap between disruptive discovery products and real-world patient reach, we identify high-potential compounds and technologies for in-licensing, clinically demonstrate their safety and efficacy and then select large pharmaceutical commercialization partners to maximize patient access globally. For more information, please visit www.debiopharm.com We are on Twitter. Follow us @DebiopharmNews at http://twitter.com/DebiopharmNews Debiopharm Contact Dawn Haughton-Bonine Communication Manager [email protected] Tel: +41 (0)21 321 01 11 SOURCE Debiopharm International SA SFL Scientific brings deep experience and proven track record in AI strategy and development that extends Deloitte's market-leading AI and data science services and solutions NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Deloitte announced today that it has acquired the business of SFL Scientific, a leading, award-winning artificial intelligence (AI) strategy and data science consulting firm. This acquisition underscores Deloitte's commitment to investing in the capabilities that public and private sector clients need to transform their businesses for future success. Combining SFL Scientific's deep science and analytics knowledge with Deloitte's breadth of AI capabilities and industry depth and experience further positions Deloitte as an AI leader, advances its ability to deliver AI-fueled transformations for clients, and accelerates the growth of its AI market share. "As our clients advance their enterprise AI journeys, they require the comprehensive and sophisticated experience that SFL Scientific delivers," said Dan Helfrich, chairman and CEO, Deloitte Consulting LLP. "The acquisition builds on an already strong relationship between our two organizations serving both commercial and public sector clients. Additionally, it will help us advise clients with the best approach to how AI can help transform their business, implement scalable capabilities to drive that transformation, and provide ongoing support to continually improve investments with AI-infused tech." SFL Scientific has a proven track record serving large, market-leading organizations in the private and public sectors, successfully delivering high-quality, novel and complex projects, and offering deep domain and scientific capabilities. SFL Scientific's team of experienced AI strategists, data scientists, and AI engineers serve as trusted advisors to executives, helping them understand and evaluate new and essential areas for AI investment and identify unique opportunities to transform their businesses. "Combining SFL Scientific's specialized AI strategy knowledge with Deloitte's breadth of AI technological capabilities and industry depth will advance our AI leadership, accelerate our AI market share, and position Deloitte as a trusted advisor helping our enterprise clients transform their businesses through the power of AI," said Nitin Mittal, AI co-leader, and principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP. Acquiring SFL Scientific's business reinforces Deloitte as the destination for a rich career in AI, and fortifies our commitment to fostering an environment to advance technical excellence and technology development and growing leading teams of data scientists, strategists, and technologists, all in support of delivering AI-fueled transformations for clients. "We are excited to join forces with Deloitte. Combining our high caliber AI talent with Deloitte's broad domain knowledge and implementation capabilities is the catalyst to accelerate solving scientific and operational challenges with AI," said Michael Segala, Ph.D., CEO, SFL Scientific. About Deloitte Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services to many of the world's most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500 and more than 7,000 private companies. Our people come together for the greater good and work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today's marketplace delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthier society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Building on more than 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte's approximately 415,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the "Deloitte" name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms. SOURCE Deloitte Consulting LLP NOIDA, India, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new report published by UnivDatos Markets Insights, Artificial intelligence in the supply chain market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 46% during the forecast period, reaching USD 35 billion by 2028. The analysis has been segmented into Application (Fleet Management, Supply Chain Planning, Warehouse Management, Virtual Assistant, and Others); End-user (Automotive, Retail, Consumer-Packaged Goods, Food and Beverages, and Others); Region/Country. Click here to view the Report Description & TOC https://univdatos.com/report/artificial-intelligence-in-supply-chain-market/ The artificial intelligence in the supply chain market report has been aggregated by collecting informative data on various dynamics such as market drivers, restraints, and opportunities. This innovative report makes use of several analyses to get a closer outlook on artificial intelligence in the supply chain market. The artificial intelligence in supply chain market report offers a detailed analysis of the latest industry developments and trending factors in the market that are influencing the market growth. Furthermore, this statistical market research repository examines and estimates the artificial intelligence in the supply chain market at the global and regional levels. Request for Sample Pages https://univdatos.com/get-a-free-sample-form-php/?product_id=26147 Market Overview AI in supply chains is helping to deliver the powerful optimization capabilities required for more accurate capacity planning, improved productivity, high quality, lower costs, and greater output, all while fostering safer working conditions. The growing adoption of artificial intelligence in the supply chain can be attributed to growing adoption of AI coupled with growing investments in the AI sector. For instance, according to live mint the AI investments reached USD 881mn in the year 2020. Furthermore, AI has been applied in a variety of end-use applications that allow businesses to function without the need for human supervision. AI-enabled machinery and equipment can work successfully by acquiring human abilities. Artificial intelligence in supply chain market is expected to grow at a steady rate of around 46% owing to growing investments by key players. Major companies in the market offer artificial intelligence in supply chain. For instance, IBM Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Google LLC, Amazon.com Inc., Intel Corporation, Nvidia Corporation, Oracle Corporation, Samsung, LLamasoft Inc., and SAP SE. Covid-19 Impact The COVID-19 pandemic has spread across the world and has had a mixed impact on various industries. The supply chain industry was majorly affected by COVID-19, all the manufacturing companies were having trouble obtaining materials needed to form products, and were struggling to ship their products to stores and warehouses. Click here to view the Report Description & TOC https://univdatos.com/report/artificial-intelligence-in-supply-chain-market/ The global artificial intelligence in supply chain market report is studied thoroughly with several aspects that would help stakeholders in making their decisions more curated. Based on application, the market is segmented into fleet management, supply chain planning, warehouse management, virtual assistant, and others. The supply chain planning segment is expected to achieve a significant CAGR during the forecast. The growing adoption of data-based decision-making and the increasing number of operations in a company requires proper management, scheduling, and planning to manage the operations. AI helps in the decision-making and optimization of the resources within the industry. Based on end-users, the market is segmented into automotive, retail, consumer-packaged goods, food and beverages, and others. The automotive segment is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. The growing size of the automotive industry and the introduction of electric vehicles is expected to drive the market. Have a Look at the Chapters - https://univdatos.com/report/artificial-intelligence-in-supply-chain-market/ Artificial intelligence in supply chain market Geographical Segmentation Includes: North America ( United States , Canada , and Rest of North America ) ( , , and Rest of ) Europe ( Germany , United Kingdom , Spain , Italy , France , and the Rest of Europe ) ( , , , , , and the Rest of ) Asia-Pacific ( China , Japan , India , and the Rest of Asia-Pacific ) ( , , , and the Rest of ) Rest of the World North America constitutes a significant AI in the supply chain market due to the presence of the major market players and the presence of developed economies in the region. Furthermore, the growing adoption of deep learning and NLP technologies are expected to drive artificial intelligence in the supply chain market. The major players targeting the market include IBM Corporation Microsoft Corporation Google LLC Amazon.com Inc Intel Corporation Nvidia Corporation Oracle Corporation Samsung LLamasoft Inc SAP SE. Competitive Landscape The degree of competition among prominent global companies has been elaborated by analyzing several leading key players operating worldwide. The specialist team of research analysts sheds light on various traits such as global market competition, market share, most recent industry advancements, innovative product launches, partnerships, mergers, or acquisitions by leading companies in the artificial intelligence in supply chain market. The major players have been analyzed by using research methodologies for getting insight views on global competition. Key questions resolved through this analytical market research report include: What are the latest trends, new patterns, and technological advancements in artificial intelligence in the supply chain market? Which factors are influencing artificial intelligence in supply chain market over the forecast period? What are the global challenges, threats, and risks in artificial intelligence in supply chain market? Which factors are propelling and restraining artificial intelligence in supply chain market? What are the demanding global regions of artificial intelligence in supply chain market? What will be the global market size in the upcoming years? What are the crucial market acquisition strategies and policies applied by global companies? We understand the requirement of different businesses, regions, and countries, we offer customized reports as per your requirements of business nature and geography. Please let us know If you have any custom needs. Browse Other Related Research Reports from UnivDatos Market Insights AI in Supply Chain Market Report Coverage Report Attribute Details Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2028 Growth momentum Accelerate at a CAGR of over 45% Market size 2020 USD 35 billion Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Rest of World Major contributing region North America to Dominate the Global AI in Supply Chain Key countries covered United States, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, France, China, Japan, and India Companies profiled IBM Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Google LLC, Amazon.com Inc., Intel Corporation, Nvidia Corporation, Oracle Corporation, Samsung, LLamasoft Inc., and SAP SE. Report Scope Market Trends, Drivers, and Restraints; Revenue Estimation and Forecast; Segmentation Analysis; Impact of COVID-19; Demand and Supply Side Analysis; Competitive Landscape; Company Profiling Segments Covered By Application, By End-Users; By Region/Country About UnivDatos Market Insights (UMI) UnivDatos Market Insights (UMI) is a passionate market research firm and a subsidiary of Universal Data Solutions. We believe in delivering insights through Market Intelligence Reports, Customized Business Research, and Primary Research. Our research studies are spread across topics across the world, we cover markets in over 100 countries using smart research techniques and agile methodologies. We offer in-depth studies, detailed analysis, and customized reports that help shape winning business strategies for our clients. Contact UnivDatos Market Insights Ankita Gupta Director Operations Ph: +91-7838604911 Email: [email protected] Website: https://univdatos.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1225049/UnivDatos_Logo.jpg SOURCE UnivDatos Market Insights Pvt. Ltd. TSX.V: DME U.S. OTC: DMEHF Frankfurt: QM01 VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY CORP. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) (OTC: DMEHF) (Frankfurt: QM01) From the President of the Company. The Company is pleased to announce that it has signed a Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) with Beam Earth Ltd. The JOA initially encompasses the shallow hydrogen zones found while drilling in the McCauley helium field. The agreement provides for the Company's continued ability to remain focused on its helium prospects, whilst utilizing Beam Earth ltd. expertise in hydrogen. Furthermore, this agreement provides the basis for opportunities for other JOA's with Beam in jurisdictions outside of Arizona. "The cooperation of our technical teams provides a like-minded approach to exploration, development and production of helium and the emerging technologies surrounding the optimization of lower cost, naturally occurring hydrogen," says Robert Rohlfing, CEO of Desert Mountain Energy Corp. "We look forward to working together with Beam Earth on the complexity of the geological settings and specific geophysical options required to be able to repeatedly duplicate successful exploration." The Company has tested two zones in the Gunnar Dome well and found helium. The gaseous composition of that specifically tested interval would not be compatible for production with the planned McCauley Helium Processing Facility. Therefore, the Company is scheduling the rig and associated equipment to come out, isolate the tested zone and complete the well into another zone where helium was seen on the mass spectrometer without the inclusion of other noble gases. DME will advise upon completion of that work. The Company would also advise that it has filed a counterclaim for damages in regards to the original injunctive action by the City of Flagstaff. The Company will only comment as appropriate in this matter. A copy of the filing may be found online, at the Coconino County Clerks' office. ABOUT DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is a publicly traded resource company primarily focused on exploration, development and production of helium, hydrogen and noble gases. The Company is primarily looking for elements deemed critical to the renewable energy and high technology industries. We seek safe harbor "Robert Rohlfing" Robert Rohlfing Exec Chairman & CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The statements made in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ from the Company's expectations. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "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. Such forward looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in the future the planned exploration activities, receipt of positive results from drilling, the completion of further drilling and exploration work, and the timing and results of various activities. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States; financial risks due to helium prices, operating or technical difficulties in exploration and development activities; risks and hazards and the speculative nature of resource exploration and related development; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company's title to properties. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the continued operation of the Company's exploration operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend to, and nor does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law. SOURCE Desert Mountain Energy Corp. Company Aims to Democratize Access to Permanent Life Insurance, Allow Customers to Invest Premiums in Public Markets SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amplify Life Insurance, a digital-first life insurance platform focused on helping customers build wealth through permanent life insurance, announced an investment round led by Munich Re Ventures (MRV), with follow on investment by Crosslink Capital, Greycroft, and Conversion Capital. The investment brings Amplify's total funding to $25.1 million. Amplify is the first digital platform that offers customers the ability to invest in public markets with their life insurance premiums, accessing tax-efficient returns throughout their lifetime via a product that has been historically available primarily to affluent and more mature demographics. Amplify's digital interface provides customers with a customized policy based on their financial goals, risk tolerance, and underwriting risk profile. Customers can also choose how much of their premiums are invested in tax-efficient, high-growth investments and how much goes towards their life insurance coverage. With built-in capabilities for expedited underwriting and policy delivery, most Amplify customers are able to get a life insurance investment policy within days and without a medical exam. Munich Re Ventures, the venture capital arm of Munich Re Group, one of the world's leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance, and insurance-related risk solutions, brings institutional expertise and deep knowledge in scaling insurers and insurtechs. MRV's insights and aspirations within the insurance industry align with Amplify's approach to permanent life insurance and goal of expanding consumer access to innovative insurance products. "With Munich Re Ventures at the table, Amplify gains an industry leading investor whose insurance expertise is primed to propel Amplify through the next phase of growth," said Hanna Wu, Co-founder and CEO at Amplify. Additionally, Amplify has added former CEO and current President of Personal Capital, Jay Shah, to its Board of Directors. Jay has decades of executive operating experience scaling up consumer-direct fintech brands like E-Loan and Personal Capital. Additionally, Jay has held several successful Board and Advisor roles including Ellie Mae and One. Jay's addition will bring tremendous value to Amplify's ongoing strategy and continued growth. "Having spent the majority of my career running and advising fintechs across the consumer lending, banking and wealth verticals, I couldn't be more excited to bring my operational knowhow to the board of Amplify," said Shah. "Pattern recognition is an invaluable way to accelerate growth so I'm looking forward to unlocking great value for Amplify's customers with Hanna and the team." With this new funding round, Amplify is focused on reducing friction and human-to-human administrative processes in policy customization, payments, underwriting, servicing, claims management, and more. As part of the move towards building a customer-centric, easy-to-use platform, this investment accompanies a partnership whereby Munich Re will help Amplify implement a fully automated underwriting process through alitheia, Munich Re Life US' risk assessment and instant decisioning platform. "Permanent life insurance is a powerful financial product that has completely flown under the radar during the insurtech boom of the last five years," said Ben Bergsma, Investment Principal at Munich Re Ventures. "Amplify is using new and innovative digital-first distribution methods to bring the financial security and wealth generation possibilities of a Variable Universal Life Insurance product to a new, younger market. It is a privilege to be part of Amplify's journey as they provide this powerful tool to the masses." With the help of MRV and Munich Re, Amplify will further build the life insurance ecosystem needed to democratize permanent life insurance. Amplify will continue to focus on expanding the digital life insurance offerings including a mobile application to be launched later this year that will allow customers to manage their life insurance policies and investment portfolios. The company will also hire across teams including engineering, product, data science, customer experience, and marketing. About Amplify Life Insurance Amplify is the first digital permanent life insurance platform offering customers direct access to products where you access tax-efficient investment returns and obtain lifelong protection. It's founded by serial entrepreneurs with industry and technology expertise looking to modernize the $70B permanent life insurance industry. Amplify provides an AI-enabled educational journey, product recommendation and quoting, and real-time pre-underwriting to help customers learn about plans and customize a policy for their needs. Founded in 2019, Amplify aims to help customers achieve health and financial wellness. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Amplify is open to all 50 states, and has served thousands of customers. About Munich Re Ventures Munich Re Ventures is the venture capital arm of Munich Re Group, one of the world's leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance, and insurance-related risk solutions. With more than $1 billion in assets under management, Munich Re Ventures invests in the most innovative start-ups transforming the future of risk and risk transfer. MRV's experienced investors are financially-driven while focused on the strategic interests of Munich Re and the broader insurance industry. MRV works closely with Munich Re Group businesses across the globe to fund and partner with the best emerging companies developing new technologies and business models and risks for tomorrow's world. Press Contact Hanna Wu 9144824942 https://getamplifylife.com/ SOURCE Amplify Life Insurance SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- US travel agents are a key element of SATA Azores Airlines' sales strategy in North America. Discover the World has been engaged to enhance and enlarge SATA's relationship with the travel trade in the USA. Understanding the importance of the travel agency community in assisting customers with international travel, Discover will apply its vast experience in this area to provide excellence in service and support to SATA's valued existing travel agency partners and to reach out to new agencies interested in selling the Azores and other SATA destinations. Our new North American trade service center will operate Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm Eastern Time and can be contacted by phone at 1-800-762-9995 or (508) 677-0555, and via email at [email protected]. SATA Azores Airlines currently departs out of New York JFK and Boston serving destinations in Europe and Africa (Azores, Madeira, Lisbon, Porto, Paris (CDG) and Cape Verde). The winter schedule for 2022/2023 includes flights from Boston to Ponta Delgada operating 5x per week. Also, SATA will fly direct from New York (JFK) into Ponta Delgada on Friday and Saturday and directly into Funchal on Thursdays. About SATA Group Established in the Azores in 1941, and with more than eighty years of History, SATA Group has at its core the depth of the Azorean soul and is committed to overcoming the archipelago's isolation. Composed of two airlines (SATA Air Acores and Azores Airlines) and an aerodrome managing body in the Archipelago of the Azores, the SATA Group has affirmed itself as an international airline that embraces the mission of building Atlantic bridges between the Azores and the world. SATA Airlines currently operates a network of regular national and international routes, playing an essential role in the economic and social development of the Autonomous Region of the Azores. About Discover the World Discover the World has earned a reputation as an innovative global sales representation leader in the travel industry through a worldwide network of 85 offices in more than 60 countries. With a portfolio of over 100 clients utilizing its sales, marketing and business process outsourcing services, the work of Discover the World has a direct positive impact on the growth of our clients and trade industry partners every day. For more information about Discover the World, visit discovertheworld.com, or call (480) 707-5566. SOURCE Discover the World Giving hope and healing through community-based treatment **October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month** FAIRFAX, Va., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Virginia Cancer Specialists is proud to announce that David Weintritt, MD, FACS, one of the nation's most innovative breast surgeons, is joining their community-based cancer treatment team. David Weintritt, MD, FACS, one of the nations most innovative breast surgeons, has joined Virginia Cancer Specialists. Dr. Weintritt is a recognized leader in the field specializing in cutting-edge surgical techniques including resensation nipple-sparing mastectomy technique allowing for better recovery of sensation post-surgery, clinical research developing new techniques for better visualization of lymph nodes during surgery, and perfusion imaging during nipple sparing mastectomy to reduce complications and provide more advanced reconstruction options than available in the past. "We focus on quality of life, not just quantity of life," says Weintritt. "One of the reasons I'm joining Virginia Cancer Specialists is the clear pathway of innovation and care. Our mindset needs to include the goal of both surviving and thriving." Weintritt says Virginia Cancer Specialists offers him the opportunity to practice in a holistic environment where all the needs of patients can be met through the resources Virginia Cancer Specialists has to offer. "Nothing with cancer happens in a silo," Weintritt says. "Virginia Cancer Specialists offers the staff and resources to collaborate and develop surgical plans within a network of collaborative care. So, when there's a discussion about a patient, there's a widespread joint discussion of patient care." "Dr. David Weintritt shares our vision of providing state-of-the-art multidisciplinary cancer care, and we are delighted to have him join our growing practice" said Elise Powers, Executive Director, Virginia Cancer Specialists. "With his focus on promising new surgical advancements in breast cancer treatment, Dr. Weintritt is a welcome addition to our breast cancer team as we seek to deliver the very best in integrated care to our breast patients." Weintritt joins an accomplished and experienced team of physicians and medical professionals at Virginia Cancer Specialists. Virginia Cancer Specialists recently celebrated its 50th anniversary of community-based cancer treatment, comprehensive and compassionate care. More about Dr. Weintritt Dr. Weintritt is a board-certified breast surgeon and completed his undergraduate and medical education at the University of Florida and surgery residency at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in North Carolina. He then served in the United States Air Force at Andrews Air Force Base and worked with surgical oncologists at Walter Reed Army and Bethesda Naval Hospitals in offering sentinel node biopsy, a procedure that reduces breast cancer surgery risk, and is now standard of care. From there, he entered into private practice in Annapolis, MD, and as part of the hospital's comprehensive breast program, he gained experience in breast ultrasound and minimally invasive approaches for managing breast disease. In 2003, Dr. Weintritt moved his practice to Alexandria, VA, bringing new programs and breast surgery techniques to Northern Virginia. Dr. Weintritt has also been a faculty member of George Washington University Department of Surgery. In 2014 Dr. Weintritt founded the National Breast Center Foundation that continues supporting women by funding breast cancer screening and treatment for women in the DC region. Dr. Weintritt is a perennial Washingtonian Top Doctor chosen by his peers and continues to focus on clinical research and development of new breast cancer procedures. For more information on Virginia Cancer Specialists, visit: VirginiaCancerSpecialists.com SOURCE Virginia Cancer Specialists Covid has served as a catalyst for health & safety improvements, offering 'unprecedented' opportunity for businesses to create a lasting health and safety legacy. UK businesses express concerns about a major industrial disaster amidst safety 'brain drain' as older, experienced workers leave the workplace. Hemel Hempstead, England , Oct. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- New research into the state of safety in UK workplaces has today been published by Draeger Safety UK. Key findings include: Draeger Safety UK launches its annual 'Safety at Work' research report Positives: The majority of British workers (52%) feel safer at work than they did a year ago, with the top three reasons for this being: - 'My business is taking safety more seriously' 67% - 'Safety training at my workplace following Covid' 54% - 'My company is 'spending more money on workplace safety than before' 33% Concerns: Despite the positive headlines, significant threats were highlighted, including: - Safety 'brain drain' amidst record employment flux, the research showed that the leading reason for people feeling less safe at work was the loss of older, more experienced workers from the workforce (32%). - 37% stated that there needs to be more effort made to make sure that experience is handed down to the next generation of workers. - Younger people (25 34 year olds) feel the least safe of any age group, with almost one in five (18%) saying they feel increasingly less safe at work. - Concerns about a major industrial disaster on the scale of Buncefield or Piper Alpha, more than half (55%) of managers have concerns about such an incident happening in the next five years. - Supply Chain issues Four in ten (40%) managers stated that the current supply chain problems posed the most significant current threat to workplace safety, due to lack of availability of parts such as sensors and semiconductors. Matthew Bedford Managing Director, Draeger Safety UK said: "Our 2022 research shows that 77% of British workers feel that workplace safety is more important as a business priority than it was a year ago. "It is clear that Covid has created an unprecedented opportunity to initiate a positive and long-term legacy when it comes to workplace safety. Not only are most employees now familiar with who their business's health & safety lead is, but health and safety professionals have had board recognition like never before. "Now that the impact of Covid in the workplace is reduced, there is a significant opportunity for health and safety to retain the more prominent, often board-level, position that we saw during Covid, with the potential to have a lasting positive legacy on health & safety in businesses in years to come." Notes to Editors Drager is an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology. Our products protect, support, and save lives. Founded in 1889, Drager generated revenues of around 3.3 billion in 2021. The Drager Group is currently present in over 190 countries and has more than 15,000 employees worldwide. Please visit www.draeger.com for more information. The Drager Safety at Work Report summarises the findings of annual independent research commissioned by Drager exploring attitudes towards safety in UK workplaces. 2022 is the second year that the research has been undertaken. About the research: The independent research was carried out online and there were 1203 quantitative interviews undertaken, of which 253 were with managers. The sectors covered were: Oil and Gas New Energy / Renewables Manufacturing / Construction / Engineering / Industrial Utilities Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1913203/Draeger_Safety_UK.jpg SOURCE Draeger Safety UK PRINCETON, N. J. and SHANGHAI, SUZHOU, China, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Duality Biotherapeutics, Inc. ("Duality" or "the Company") today announced the appointment of Dr. Antoine Yver as Chairman of SAB. Dr. Antoine Yver will provide strategic advice and guidance for the Company's R&D and pipeline development to elevate the Company's innovation in the field of Antibody Drug Conjugates (the "ADC"), and support the Company's global development strategy. Dr. Antoine Yver serves as Chairman of Development at Centessa Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. and also as an independent Director of the Board at Sanofi. Previously, Dr. Antoine Yver served as Executive Vice President, President and Global Head of Oncology R&D, and Chair of the Cancer Enterprise at Daiichi Sankyo, where his strategic leadership transformed Daiichi Sankyo from a small-molecule metabolic and cardiovascular drugmaker to an oncology biologics company. Dr Yver was the vision leader for Daiichi Sankyo's global development of oncology pipeline and his leadership was fundamental for the practice-changing success of ENHERTU. Prior to Daiichi, he was Senior Vice President at AstraZeneca, where he led the development of the global oncology pipeline including TAGRISSO and LYNPARZA. In addition, he held various clinical development roles at Johnson & Johnson, Schering-Plough, Aventis Group and Rhone-Poulenc Rorer and in total has successfully developed and launched 11 new drug products. Dr. Antoine Yver has more than 32 years of oncology development and clinical experience. Dr. Yver is a pediatric oncologist and holds an M.D. from Universite Paris-Saclay. He obtained a Master's degree in Immunology from the University of Paris. He completed his medical training at the Hopitaux de Paris (AIHP/ACCA Paris). "We are delighted that Dr. Antoine Yver has joined Duality as Chair of our SAB. At present, the company has multiple next-generation ADC platforms with independent intellectual property rights, among which two assets under the DITAC (Duality Immune Toxin Antibody Conjugate) platform have entered the clinic trial phase I and shown excellent effectiveness and safety in MRCT. Dr. Yver brings his extensive and illustrious experience in oncology development and clinical practice to the Company and will contribute instrumentally to the drug development, clinical strategy and global collaboration for Duality. We look forward to working with Dr. Antoine Yver to drive the company's business development for bringing innovative drugs to patients around the world." said Dr. John Zhu, founder and CEO of Duality. "Rejuvenated by new technology and disease understanding, ADCs have demonstrated tremendous therapeutic potential. I have no doubt ADC as a modality will benefit many more patients in the future. Capitalizing on next-generation ADC technology, DualityBio has developed a rich pipeline in a record time. Several programs have generated exciting preclinical and clinical data. I am happy to advise the company on future development of its pipeline, which hopefully over time will serve many patients in dire needs of new treatment options." said Dr. Antoine Yver. About DualityBio "To Translate Novel Modality into Reality". DualityBio is committed to developing novel modality drugs to fulfill the unmet medical needs for patients worldwide. Focusing on the oncology and autoimmune diseases, the company has built a novel internal pipeline including nearly 10 Best-in-Class and First-in-Class Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) molecules, of which several drug candidates gained IND approval in both China and United States, and entered the clinical trial stage. Leveraging - the decades of learning, a number of next-generation Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) technology platforms were established with global intellectual property rights. These include DITAC (Duality Immune Toxin Antibody Conjugate) with significantly improved therapeutic window and DIMAC (Duality Immune Modulating Antibody Conjugate) with superior efficacy than traditional biologics. Duality Biologics was founded in January 2020 by Dr. John Zhu, a seasoned entrepreneur in the healthcare industry and led by an experienced management team with proven track record in discovering and developing novel medicines for global market. Duality is currently operating in both China and United States. SOURCE DualityBio The e-commerce technology market has been segmented by application (B2C and B2B) and geography (North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA) NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The e-commerce technology market will be dominated by North America during the forecast period. The growth of this region is attributed to factors such as the increasing presence of online shopping. Moreover, market growth in this region will be faster than the growth of the market in other regions. The US and China are the key countries in the e-commerce technology market in North America. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global e-Commerce Technology Market 2021-2025 The e-commerce technology market size is expected to increase by USD 10.57 billion from 2020 to 2025. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will accelerate at a CAGR of 19.07 %, according to Technavio. Technavio provides a comprehensive report summary describing the market size and forecast along with research methodology. The FREE sample report is available in PDF format E-Commerce Technology Market: Market Segmentation By application, the B2C segment will be the largest contributor to market growth during the forecast period. The adoption of e-commerce payment platforms is increasing. Numerous customers shop for consumer goods on e-commerce websites and make payments through e-commerce payment platforms. These platforms are highly secure and use the latest payment processing technologies. E-Commerce Technology Market: Major Growth Drivers The increasing e-commerce sales are driving the growth of the market. The growth of the e-commerce industry is attributed to factors such as the increasing tech-savvy population, rising Internet penetration, and the growing use of smartphones. In addition, online shopping provides various multiple payment options, such as Internet banking, credit and debit cards, cash-on-delivery (COD), and electronic wallets. Moreover, consumers can check user reviews by other consumers before purchasing a product. Hence, the growth of the e-commerce industry will fuel the growth of the global e-commerce technology market during the forecast period. For information about other trends and drivers that will shape the future of the market, View our FREE PDF Sample Report E-Commerce Technology Market: Key Vendor Offerings Adobe Inc. - The company offers Adobe Commerce Cloud, which is powered by Magento that is built for multi-channel commerce experiences for B2B and B2C customers on a single platform. The company offers Adobe Commerce Cloud, which is powered by Magento that is built for multi-channel commerce experiences for B2B and B2C customers on a single platform. BigCommerce Holdings Inc. - The company offers BigCommerce, which provides an online platform to market the company's services. The company offers BigCommerce, which provides an online platform to market the company's services. Open Text Corp. - The company offers OpenText Magellan Analytics Suite and OpenText Magellan as AI-powered analytics for e-commerce and retail. The company offers OpenText Magellan Analytics Suite and OpenText Magellan as AI-powered analytics for e-commerce and retail. Oracle Corp. - The company offers Oracle Commerce, which provides B2B commerce by delivering complete, self-service digital commerce experiences through any channel while meeting the complexities inherent in B2B sales, integrations, and business models. The company offers Oracle Commerce, which provides B2B commerce by delivering complete, self-service digital commerce experiences through any channel while meeting the complexities inherent in B2B sales, integrations, and business models. Shopify Inc. - The company offers solutions for B2B commerce, which helps reach every customer, from B2B to retail. E-Commerce Technology Market: Reasons to Buy Our Report CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2021-2025 Detailed information on factors that will assist e-commerce technology market growth during the next five years Estimation of the e-commerce technology market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the e-commerce technology market across North America , APAC, Europe , South America , and MEA , APAC, , , and MEA Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of e-commerce technology market vendors Related Reports Digital Commerce Market by Business Segment and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The digital commerce market size is projected to grow by USD 3.43 trillion from 2021 to 2026. Retail E-Commerce Software Market by Deployment and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2021-2025: The retail e-commerce software market share is expected to increase by USD 6.72 billion from 2020 to 2025. E-Commerce Technology Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2020 Forecast period 2021-2025 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 19.07% Market growth 2021-2025 USD 10.57 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 17.57 Regional analysis North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA Performing market contribution North America at 37% Key consumer countries US, China, Germany, Japan, and UK Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Adobe Inc., BigCommerce Holdings Inc., commercetools GmbH, HCL Technologies Ltd., Open Text Corp., Oracle Corp., Pitney Bowes Inc., Salesforce.com Inc., SAP SE, and Shopify 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, and 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 Information Technology Market Reports Table of Contents 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 2.1 Market ecosystem Exhibit 01: Parent market Exhibit 02: Market characteristics 2.2 Value chain analysis Exhibit 03: Value chain analysis: IT consulting and other services 3 Market Sizing 3.1 Market definition Exhibit 04: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition 3.2 Market segment analysis Exhibit 05: Market segments 3.3 Market size 2020 3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2020 - 2025 Exhibit 06: Global - Market size and forecast 2020 - 2025 ($ million) Exhibit 07: Global market: Year-over-year growth 2020 - 2025 (%) 4 Five Forces Analysis 4.1 Five forces summary Exhibit 08: Five forces analysis 2020 & 2025 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers Exhibit 09: Bargaining power of buyers 4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers Exhibit 10: Bargaining power of suppliers 4.4 Threat of new entrants Exhibit 11: Threat of new entrants 4.5 Threat of substitutes Exhibit 12: Threat of substitutes 4.6 Threat of rivalry Exhibit 13: Threat of rivalry 4.7 Market condition Exhibit 14: Market condition - Five forces 2020 5 Market Segmentation by Application 5.1 Market segments Exhibit 15: Application - Market share 2020-2025 (%) 5.2 Comparison by Application Exhibit 16: Comparison by Application 5.3 B2C - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 17: B2C - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 18: B2C - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 5.4 B2B - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 19: B2B - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 20: B2B - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 5.5 Market opportunity by Application Exhibit 21: Market opportunity by Application 6 Customer landscape 7 Geographic Landscape 7.1 Geographic segmentation Exhibit 23: Market share by geography 2020-2025 (%) 7.2 Geographic comparison Exhibit 24: Geographic comparison 7.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 25: North America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 26: North America - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 7.4 APAC - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 27: APAC - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 28: APAC - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 7.5 Europe - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 29: Europe - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 30: Europe - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 7.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 31: South America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 32: South America - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 7.7 MEA - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Exhibit 33: MEA - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 ($ million) Exhibit 34: MEA - Year-over-year growth 2020-2025 (%) 7.8 Key leading countries Exhibit 35: Key leading countries 7.9 Market opportunity by geography Exhibit 36: Market opportunity by geography 8 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 8.1 Market drivers 8.2 Market challenges Exhibit 37: Impact of drivers and challenges 8.3 Market trends 9 Vendor Landscape 9.1 Competitive scenario 9.2 Vendor landscape Exhibit 38: Vendor landscape 9.3 Landscape disruption Exhibit 39: Landscape disruption Exhibit 40: Industry risks 10 Vendor Analysis 10.1 Vendors covered Exhibit 41: Vendors covered 10.2 Market positioning of vendors Exhibit 42: Market positioning of vendors 10.3 Adobe Inc. Exhibit 43: Adobe Inc. - Overview Exhibit 44: Adobe Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 45: Adobe Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 46: Adobe Inc. - Segment focus 10.4 BigCommerce Holdings Inc. Exhibit 47: BigCommerce Holdings Inc. - Overview Exhibit 48: BigCommerce Holdings Inc. - Product and service Exhibit 49: BigCommerce Holdings Inc. - Key offerings 10.5 commercetools GmbH Exhibit 50: commercetools GmbH - Overview Exhibit 51: commercetools GmbH - Product and service Exhibit 52: commercetools GmbH - Key offerings 10.6 HCL Technologies Ltd. 10.7 Open Text Corp. Exhibit 57: Open Text Corp. - Overview Exhibit 58: Open Text Corp. - Product and service Exhibit 59: Open Text Corp. - Key offerings 10.8 Oracle Corp. Exhibit 60: Oracle Corp. - Overview Exhibit 61: Oracle Corp. - Business segments Exhibit 62: Oracle Corp. - Key offerings Exhibit 63: Oracle Corp. - Segment focus 10.9 Pitney Bowes Inc. Exhibit 64: Pitney Bowes Inc. - Overview Exhibit 65: Pitney Bowes Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 66: Pitney Bowes Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 67: Pitney Bowes Inc. - Segment focus 10.10 Salesforce.com Inc. Exhibit 68: Salesforce.com Inc. - Overview Exhibit 69: Salesforce.com Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 70: Salesforce.com Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 71: Salesforce.com Inc. - Segment focus 10.11 SAP SE Exhibit 72: SAP SE - Overview Exhibit 73: SAP SE - Business segments Exhibit 74: SAP SE - Key offerings Exhibit 75: SAP SE - Segment focus 10.12 Shopify Inc. Exhibit 76: Shopify Inc. - Overview Exhibit 77: Shopify Inc. - Product and service Exhibit 78: Shopify Inc. - Key offerings 11 Appendix 11.1 Scope of the report 11.2 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 79: Currency conversion rates for US$ 11.3 Research methodology Exhibit 80: Research Methodology Exhibit 81: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 82: Information sources 11.4 List of abbreviations Exhibit 83: 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/ Newsroom: newsroom.technavio.org/news/e-commerce-technologymarket SOURCE Technavio Transaction combines Hayward Gordon's leading brands in pump and mixer capabilities with EBARA's outstanding technology, infrastructure, and global presence TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - We are pleased to announce that EBARA Corporation Japan (EBARA) has acquired 100% equity of Hayward Gordon L.P. (Hayward Gordon). This acquisition is a tremendous opportunity to expand EBARA's product portfolio with Hayward Gordon's heavy-duty process pumps and extensive line of mixers, develop Hayward Gordon's manufacturing capabilities, enhance EBARA and Hayward Gordon's sales network, and further improve our pool of resources of talented experts for the North American market. "We are excited about the integration of Hayward Gordon into EBARA'S Global Group of Companies, and we look forward to welcoming their customers, partners, and employees to EBARA," said Yusuke Nagatani, newly appointed President and CEO of Hayward Gordon. "Hayward Gordon and EBARA's expanded range of complimentary products, global manufacturing facilities, worldwide sales network, and solid financial standing enables the acquisition to supply a unique and broad range of products and services that make a valuable difference in the marketplace." "We are delighted to join EBARA, whose values closely align with Hayward Gordon in how we serve our customers, provide opportunities for our people, and our commitment to innovation," said John Hayward, Executive Director of Hayward Gordon. In the drive to continuously improve products, technologies, and services, EBARA's added investment in the North American market signifies its commitment to providing critical components for the environmental, industrial, and critical infrastructure sectors. This acquisition builds upon EBARA's Founding Spirit of "Netsu to Makoto" (Passion and Dedication) and its corporate philosophy, which states: "We contribute to society through high-quality technologies and services relating to water, air, and the environment." About EBARA Corporation Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with more than 17,000 employees around the world, EBARA Corporation is one of the world's leading producers of pumps, compressors, fans, gas turbines, chillers, and semiconductor equipment for the industrial, energy, infrastructure, and environmental sectors. About Hayward Gordon Hayward Gordon encompasses three industry-leading brands in the pump and mixer market: Hayward Gordon, Sharpe Mixers, and Scott Turbon Mixer. The Company is a leader in solids handling pumps for water and wastewater treatment and offers one of the broadest lines of industrial and sanitary mixers in North America. Hayward Gordon operates facilities in Halton Hills, ON, Canada (Toronto area) and Adelanto, CA, USA. SOURCE Ebara Corporation NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the report "Emergency Food Market by Product Type, Distribution Channel, and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026", the market will witness a YOY growth of 6.97% in 2022 and a CAGR of 7.23% during the forecast period. The report is segmented by product type (ready-to-eat meals, non-perishable pasteurized milk, infant food, dried food, and others), distribution channel (offline and online), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa). Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Emergency Food Market 2022-2026 Technavio provides a comprehensive report summary describing the market size and forecast along with research methodology. The FREE sample report is available in PDF format Key Segment Analysis The ready-to-eat meals segment will be the largest contributor to market growth during the forecast period. Ready-to-eat food items are pre-cooked, pre-cleaned, packaged, and made ready for consumption without any requirement for prior cooking or preparation. This growth of this segment is attributed to factors such as the increasing number of working women, the growing Millennial population, on-the-go consumption habits, and busy work schedules. To know additional highlights and key points on various market segments and their impact in coming years, View our FREE PDF Sample Report Geographical Market Analysis North America will provide maximum growth opportunities in the emergency food market during the forecast period. According to our research, the region will contribute 31% of the global market growth. The US is a key country in the emergency food market in North America. The growth of this region is attributed to factors such as busy millennials opting for on-the-go eating options. Vendor Insights The emergency food market is fragmented, and the vendors are deploying organic and inorganic growth strategies to compete in the market. The report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on several market vendors, including: Augason Farms Conagra Brands Inc. Del Monte Food Inc. Emergency Essentials LLC General Mills Inc . . Kellogg Co. Legacy Food Storage Mountain House Natures Juice Bar Nestle SA Probar LLC ReadyWise Shield Safety LLC SOS Food Lab LLC The Coca Cola Co. The Kraft Heinz Co. The Survival Tabs Thrive Life LLC Valley Food Storage LLC Wise Co. Emergency Food View our FREE PDF Sample Report to find additional highlights on the growth strategies adopted by vendors and their product offerings Key Market Drivers and Challenges The growth of the organized retail sector is challenging the emergency food market growth. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the two major offline distribution channels for ready-to-eat food products. Organized retailing enables consumers to choose from a wide range of ready-to-eat food products. Thus, a rise in the number of organized retailers is expected to drive the growth of the market during the forecast period. The need to adhere to stringent regulations and guidelines is challenging the emergency food market growth. Manufacturers need to comply with rules set by organizations such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). However, it is challenging for them to comply with these regulations, and any deviation can adversely affect their brand image. Such factors will challenge the growth of the market during the forecast period. Technavio has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help vendors improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. View our FREE PDF Sample Report Customize Your Report Don't miss out on the opportunity to speak to our analyst and know more insights about this market report. Technavio can also help you customize this report according to your needs. Our analysts and industry experts will work directly with you to understand your requirements and provide you with customized data in a short amount of time. Related Reports Frozen Food Market by Product and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The frozen food market share is expected to increase by USD 105.72 billion from 2021 to 2026. Frozen Vegetables Market by Distribution Channel and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The frozen vegetables market share is expected to increase by USD 11.38 billion from 2021 to 2026 Emergency Food Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 7.23% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 2.88 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 6.97 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 31% Key consumer countries US, China, India, UK, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Key companies profiled Augason Farms, Conagra Brands Inc., Del Monte Food Inc., Emergency Essentials LLC, General Mills Inc., Kellogg Co., Legacy Food Storage, Mountain House, Natures Juice Bar, Nestle SA, Probar LLC, ReadyWise, Shield Safety LLC, SOS Food Lab LLC, The Coca Cola Co., The Kraft Heinz Co., The Survival Tabs, Thrive Life LLC, Valley Food Storage LLC, and Wise Co. Emergency Food Market dynamics Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and 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 Consumer Staples Market 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 Type Exhibit 06: Executive Summary Chart on Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel 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 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 Type 5.1 Market segments Exhibit 25: Chart on Product Type - Market share 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 26: Data Table on Product Type - Market share 2021-2026 (%) 5.2 Comparison by Product Type Exhibit 27: Chart on Comparison by Product Type Exhibit 28: Data Table on Comparison by Product Type 5.3 Ready-to-eat meals - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 29: Chart on Ready-to-eat meals - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 30: Data Table on Ready-to-eat meals - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 31: Chart on Ready-to-eat meals - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 32: Data Table on Ready-to-eat meals - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.4 Non-perishable pasteurized milk - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 33: Chart on Non-perishable pasteurized milk - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 34: Data Table on Non-perishable pasteurized milk - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 35: Chart on Non-perishable pasteurized milk - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 36: Data Table on Non-perishable pasteurized milk - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.5 Infant food - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 37: Chart on Infant food - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 38: Data Table on Infant food - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 39: Chart on Infant food - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 40: Data Table on Infant food - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.6 Dried fruit - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 41: Chart on Dried fruit - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 42: Data Table on Dried fruit - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 43: Chart on Dried fruit - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 44: Data Table on Dried fruit - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.7 Others - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 45: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 46: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 47: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 48: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.8 Market opportunity by Product Type Exhibit 49: Market opportunity by Product Type ($ million) 6 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel 6.1 Market segments Exhibit 50: Chart on Distribution Channel - Market share 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 51: Data Table on Distribution Channel - Market share 2021-2026 (%) 6.2 Comparison by Distribution Channel Exhibit 52: Chart on Comparison by Distribution Channel Exhibit 53: Data Table on Comparison by Distribution Channel 6.3 Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 54: Chart on Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 55: Data Table on Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 56: Chart on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 57: Data Table on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 6.4 Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 58: Chart on Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 59: Data Table on Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 60: Chart on Online - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 61: Data Table on Online - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 6.5 Market opportunity by Distribution Channel Exhibit 62: Market opportunity by Distribution Channel ($ 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 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 68: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 69: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 70: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 71: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 8.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 72: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 73: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 74: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 75: Data Table on Europe - 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 on 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 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 84: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 85: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 86: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 87: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 8.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 88: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 89: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 90: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 91: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 8.9 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 92: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 93: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 94: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 95: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 8.10 India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 96: Chart on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 97: Data Table on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 98: Chart on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 99: Data Table on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 8.11 UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 100: Chart on UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 101: Data Table on UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 102: Chart on UK - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 103: Data Table on UK - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 8.12 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 104: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 105: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 106: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 107: Data Table on Germany - 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 Conagra Brands Inc. Exhibit 115: Conagra Brands Inc. - Overview Exhibit 116: Conagra Brands Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 117: Conagra Brands Inc. - Key news Exhibit 118: Conagra Brands Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 119: Conagra Brands Inc. - Segment focus 11.4 Del Monte Food Inc. Exhibit 120: Del Monte Food Inc. - Overview Exhibit 121: Del Monte Food Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 122: Del Monte Food Inc. - Key news Exhibit 123: Del Monte Food Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 124: Del Monte Food Inc. - Segment focus 11.5 General Mills Inc. Exhibit 125: General Mills Inc . - Overview . - Overview Exhibit 126: General Mills Inc . - Business segments . - Business segments Exhibit 127: General Mills Inc . - Key news . - Key news Exhibit 128: General Mills Inc . - Key offerings . - Key offerings Exhibit 129: General Mills Inc . - Segment focus 11.6 Kellogg Co. Exhibit 130: Kellogg Co. - Overview Exhibit 131: Kellogg Co. - Business segments Exhibit 132: Kellogg Co. - Key offerings Exhibit 133: Kellogg Co. - Segment focus 11.7 Nestle SA Exhibit 134: Nestle SA - Overview Exhibit 135: Nestle SA - Business segments Exhibit 136: Nestle SA - Key news Exhibit 137: Nestle SA - Key offerings Exhibit 138: Nestle SA - Segment focus 11.8 ReadyWise Exhibit 139: ReadyWise - Overview Exhibit 140: ReadyWise - Product / Service Exhibit 141: ReadyWise - Key offerings 11.9 SOS Food Lab LLC Exhibit 142: SOS Food Lab LLC - Overview Exhibit 143: SOS Food Lab LLC - Product / Service Exhibit 144: SOS Food Lab LLC - Key offerings 11.10 The Coca Cola Co. Exhibit 145: The Coca Cola Co. - Overview Exhibit 146: The Coca Cola Co. - Business segments Exhibit 147: The Coca Cola Co. - Key news Exhibit 148: The Coca Cola Co. - Key offerings Exhibit 149: The Coca Cola Co. - Segment focus 11.11 The Kraft Heinz Co. Exhibit 150: The Kraft Heinz Co. - Overview Exhibit 151: The Kraft Heinz Co. - Business segments Exhibit 152: The Kraft Heinz Co. - Key offerings Exhibit 153: The Kraft Heinz Co. - Segment focus 11.12 Wise Co. Emergency Food Exhibit 154: Wise Co. Emergency Food - Overview Exhibit 155: Wise Co. Emergency Food - Product / Service Exhibit 156: Wise Co. Emergency Food - Key offerings 12 Appendix 12.1 Scope of the report 12.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist Exhibit 157: Inclusions checklist Exhibit 158: Exclusions checklist 12.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 159: Currency conversion rates for US$ 12.4 Research methodology Exhibit 160: Research methodology Exhibit 161: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 162: Information sources 12.5 List of abbreviations Exhibit 163: 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 Managing performance of ultra-low latency services for 5G/private network operators supports ultra-fast and reliable connections QUEBEC CITY, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - EXFO, the communications industry's test, monitoring, and analytics experts, today announced that its cloud-native Adaptive Service Assurance (ASA) test solution and advanced analytics reporting module are now available to customers on Amazon Web Services (AWS). This will give 5G and private network service providers exceptional visibility of Quality of Experience (QoE) and Quality of Service (QoS) performance within their dynamic, virtualized network environments. AWS provides on-demand cloud computing platforms and applications to individuals, companies, and governments on a metered pay-as-you-go basis. EXFO & AWS: delivering ultra-fast and reliable connections for 5G and private networks. (CNW Group/EXFO Inc.) "EXFO's offering on AWS reflects the readiness and value of our capability to help service providers manage their networks in the increasingly complex 5G network environment, where the automation of testing and troubleshooting is essential to effective performance assurance," said Mark Nixon, Senior Vice President ASA at EXFO. "We look forward to continued work with AWS to help ensure that 5G and private network service providers have ultra-fast, ultra-reliable connections for emerging 5G services." Network complexity is driven by 5G standalone cloud-native network functions, service-based architectures, multi-access edge compute, network slicing, and 5G private networks. As a result, networks are generating additional performance, fault and telemetry data that can be overwhelming, making it difficult to identify and respond to service degradations. The EXFO solution running on AWS will offer service providers segmented and full-stack visibility into 5G service and network cloud performance, correlate network performance with QoE and QoS indicators, and accelerate troubleshooting efforts to resolve any network faults. In conjunction with AWS services such as Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (Amazon EKS), Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3), Amazon CloudWatch and AWS Snowball, the EXFO solution will also enable service providers to cost-effectively optimize 5G cloud-based service assurance strategies and manage performance of virtual workloads. EXFO's Adaptive Service Assurance Analytics generates real-time performance data correlating QoE/QoS KPIs with telemetry data from Amazon CloudWatch so customers have the 'metrics that matter' for managing complex network environments. These AWS environments include Kubernetes-based deployments through Amazon EKS Anywhere, over different AWS service options such as AWS Regions, AWS Local Zones, AWS Wavelength for MEC, AWS Outposts, and AWS Snowball for 5G private network environments. For more information, visit https://www.exfo.com/en/solutions/service-assurance-solutions/telco-cloud-assurance-aws. About EXFO EXFO develops smarter test, monitoring and analytics solutions for the global communications industry. We are trusted advisers to fixed and mobile network operators, hyperscalers and leaders in the manufacturing, development and research sector. They count on us to deliver superior visibility and insights into network performance, service reliability and user experience. Building on over 35 years of innovation, EXFO's unique blend of equipment, software and services enable faster, more confident transformations related to 5G, cloud-native and fiber optic networks. SOURCE EXFO Inc. BISMARCK, N.D., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The spookiest of seasons is underway in North Dakota this October. Whether you are looking for a fun-filled family event with plenty of treats, or something a little more eerie and bone-chilling, North Dakota Tourism invites you to visit all the bewitching events and experiences the state has to offer to get you into the Halloween spirit. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in Mandan, North Dakota, hosted the Haunted Fort each October. Credit: The Haunted Fort Spooky Experiences The Haunted Fort at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park The Custer House at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park , the oldest state park in North Dakota, is known as one of the most frightening places in the state. The Custer House once belonged to Lt. Col. George Custer in the 1800s when Fort Abraham Lincoln was an important infantry and cavalry post. It is where Custer and the 7th Cavalry rode out for the ill-fated expedition at the Little Big Horn. To this day, it is said the ghost of Libbie Custer, Lt. Col. Custer's wife, still wanders the grounds waiting for the men to return from battle. The house is known for a plethora of paranormal activity so much so the staff hesitate to step foot in it after dusk. Every October the entire fort is transformed into the Haunted Fort , a downright frightening experience full of phantoms, ghouls, evil spirits, and other beings chronicling the fort's history and paranormal sightings. Acres of Terror A walk through the woods, corn maze, and an abandoned high school that are part of Acres of Terror , located in Leonard, provides scares like no other. Only the most fearless guests will make it through this experience with more than 30 frightening characters popping in and out sending chills down your spine when you least expect it. Acres of Terror is open Fridays and Saturdays through October 29, dusk till midnight. Dickinson's Haunted Hospital The former St. Joseph's Hospital in Dickinson is believed to be one of the most haunted buildings in North Dakota. It's with this folklore in mind that The Haunted Hospital was started in 2020 to raise money for what is now St. Joe's Plaza, home to various area businesses. The Hospital is open for guided tours throughout the month of October, with a regular haunt from 7-10 p.m. Visitors interested in taking the chills up a notch are invited to stroll the hospital halls alone during "Lights Out" from 10 p.m. to midnight. Beware, this is a spine-tingling adventure. Riverside Cemetery Established in 1879, Riverside Cemetery is Fargo's oldest, and largest, cemetery with over 18,000 citizens of the dead. Paranormal and other mysterious activity has been reported here since the early 1900s. Although the groundskeepers have stated it's not haunted, several people have heard the screams and cries of people near the mausoleums. Visitors have also spotted unusual, unexplained mists, orbs, and strange anomalies in photos and videos of the area. North Dakota State University students have put together a walking tour of Riverside Cemetery that highlights the area's history and prominent citizens of the past. Family Friendly Thrills Nelson's Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze A family operation since 1880 in Emerado, Nelson's Pumpkin Patch recently debuted its 2022 corn maze titled "We Are Kind of a Pig Deal." Spread over 10 acres, the challenging corn maze pairs with other fun fall activities including the new "Three Little Racing Pigs" straw maze designed for little corn maze explorers in training. The farm is open every day through Saturday, October 29. Open weekdays 3-7 p.m. and weekends 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Coleman Corn Maze The highly anticipated Coleman Corn Maze has returned for the 2022 season in Bismarck. The maze is spread over 10 acres at family-owned DJ Coleman Farms and was intricately designed using advanced seeding technology. The design features a larger-than-life dairy cow alongside a pumpkin and the name of the farm. Horse-drawn wagon rides, hands-on ag education display, food trucks and more will also be available. The corn maze is open Fridays 5-8 p.m., Saturdays 12-8 p.m. and Sundays 12-6 p.m. through October 23. Trick-or-Treat at a Zoo Celebrate Halloween among animal friends! The 11th annual Zoo Boo at the Dakota Zoo in Bismarck will take place on Saturday, October 29 from 1-4 p.m. and features spook-tacular decorations, local businesses, and plenty of treats! Red River Zoo's Boo at the Zoo in Fargo celebrates Halloween on October 15, 22 and 29 from 12-5 p.m. Roosevelt Zoo's Boo at the Zoo in Minot will be October 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. while Chahinkapa Zoo's ZooBoo will be October 30 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Ghosts and goblins will enjoy trick-or-treating, special vendors and more. Halloween STEAM Camp The Magic City Discovery Center in Minot works to create extraordinary learning experiences that have the power to transform the lives of children. On October 20 and 21, they will be hosting a Halloween STEAM camp filled with spooky experiments and family friendly experiences. It is a two-day camp at the Minot Auditorium filled with haunted fun for kids ages 5-12. Make sure to register in advance. Follow North Dakota Tourism on Facebook at facebook.com/TravelND , on Instagram at instagram.com/northdakotalegendary/ , on TikTok at tiktok.com/@travelnorthdakota , or on Twitter at twitter.com/NorthDakota and get tips on what to see and do all year long. SOURCE North Dakota Tourism Division Travel Leaders Group initiative helps individuals struggling with financial hardship both inside and outside the travel industry NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Family Bonds Foundation, a charitable initiative of Travel Leaders Group, has raised nearly $165,000 for 2022, exceeding its annual goal by 50 percent. The money will assist individuals in need and nonprofit organizations both inside and outside the travel industry. Founded in 2015 by John Lovell, President of Travel Leaders Group, a division of Internova Travel Group, the Family Bonds Foundation supports families, their children and their communities who are experiencing difficult times or financial hardships. More than 200 grants have been distributed over the past seven years to travel advisors, supplier partners and others. In June, the foundation held an online fundraiser and conducted a raffle and silent auction at Travel Leaders Network's EDGE conference. A second raffle and silent auction took place at Nexion Travel Group's CoNexion conference, in September. The foundation received a record number of prize donations from supplier partners, including ocean and river cruises, land packages, hotel stays and premium airline tickets. "I am so grateful for the generosity of our travel advisors, employees and supplier partners who contributed to this unprecedented fundraising effort," said Jackie Friedman, Family Bonds Foundation President, who oversees the organization's Board of Directors. Friedman is also President of Nexion Travel Group. "At Internova Travel Group, one of our core values is human always. Thanks to you, the Family Bonds Foundation is putting that into action by making a difference in people's lives and in the work of groups that are vital to our communities." These supplier partners made donations for the 2022 fundraising drive: ALG Vacations, AmaWaterways, AMR Collection, Azamara, Carnival Cruise Line, Club Med, Delta Airlines, Enterprise Holdings, Globus family of brands, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, NCL, Oceania Cruises, Palace Resorts, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Silversea Cruises, United Airlines, Viking Cruises and Windstar Cruises. Helping people recover from natural disasters like Hurricane Ian is just one example of how the Family Bonds Foundation can provide assistance. Other examples include supporting families grappling with medical expenses, caregivers of elderly parents or children with special needs, and single parents trying to make ends meet. In April, the foundation raised $13,000 for the Global Empowerment Mission to support Ukraine relief efforts. "When I was nominated for the Family Bonds grant, I was elated and so humbled," said recipient Lori Atkinson, a vacation coordinator with Cruise Holidays, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate in Kansas City. "I couldn't believe that my travel community had come together like they did." Atkinson and her family faced financial strains when her husband suffered a heart attack and stroke, resulting in a lengthy hospital stay and rehabilitation period. "I was nominated by a coworker and it was just such a blessing to receive during this time where everything was so uncertain." The deadline for the next grant period is Oct. 15, and everyone in the travel industry is encouraged to help the foundation identify potential recipients. To nominate someone or make a donation, go to familybondsfoundation.com. About Travel Leaders Group Travel Leaders Group, a division of Internova Travel Group, encompasses the franchise and consortia operations, host agency business and brands predominantly focused on leisure, cruise and tour. This includes Travel Leaders Network, Nexion Travel Group, Barrhead Travel, Roadtrips, Travel Leaders Vacation Center, CruCon Cruise Outlet and Cruise Specialists. Travel Leaders Network is North America's largest travel network. About Internova Travel Group Internova Travel Group is one of the largest travel services companies in the world with a collection of leading brands delivering high-touch, personal travel expertise to leisure and corporate clients. The company manages leisure, business and franchise firms through a portfolio of distinctive divisions and represents more than 70,000 travel advisors in over 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations predominantly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries. CONTACT: Berit Griffin [email protected] 651-442-5173 SOURCE Family Bonds Foundation ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Biologics & Biosimilars Collective Intelligence Consortium (BBCIC) announced today that it has received a major grant from the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in support of biosimilars research. The award provides $1.3 million over two years for a new BBCIC study focused on increasing the efficiency of biosimilar drug development and review. The studyentitled "Improving the Efficiency of Regulatory Decisions for Biosimilars and Interchangeable Biosimilars by Leveraging Real-World Data to Produce Real-World Evidence"reflects BBCIC's longstanding commitment to evaluating the safety and effectiveness of biologics, including biosimilars, through the generation of reliable, real- world data (RWD) and evidence (RWE). "The challenges in using real-world data and the relevance of real-world evidence for regulatory decision-making about biosimilars is a major obstacle in the industry," said Cate Lockhart, Executive Director of the BBCIC. "I'm thrilled the FDA has selected our study for funding, as it will have important benefits for the research community at-large, providing analytical tools for tests of interchangeability and other regulatory questions." BBCIC's study will leverage volumes of RWD produced by digital sharing and storage of healthcare information (medical claims and electronic health records, e.g.). The high volume of this digital data, along with revolutions in big-data analysis, provide a new opportunity to use RWD to produce RWE that can improve the regulatory science around the development and review of biosimilar drugs. The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) established the BBCIC in 2015 to address anticipated needs for evidence generation in this evolving space. Biosimilars, which are less expensive, highly similar with no clinically meaningful difference, and independently developed versions of original biological medicines, are a focus of AMCP in advancing their mission to provide high-quality, cost-effective medications to patients nationwide. About BBCIC The BBCIC is collaboration of managed care organizations, integrated delivery systems, pharmacy benefit management firms, research institutions and pharmaceutical companies. The BBCIC is the only research network dedicated to post-marketing assessment of biosimilars. To date the following organizations have made financial and in-kind commitments: AbbVie, Aetna/CVS Health Clinical Trial Services, Amgen, Anthem/Healthcore, Apobiologix, Arthritis Foundation, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Express Scripts, Inc., Group Health Cooperative/Kaiser Permanente of Washington Research Institute, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, HealthPartners, Henry Ford Health System, Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association, IQVIA, Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Merck, Optum, Patient Advocate Foundation, Pfizer, and Sandoz. For more information, visit www.BBCIC.org. About AMCP AMCP is the professional association leading the way to help patients get the medications they need at a cost they can afford. AMCP's diverse membership of pharmacists, physicians, nurses, biopharmaceutical professionals, and other stakeholders leverage their specialized expertise in clinical evidence and economics to optimize medication benefit design and population health management and help patients access cost-effective and safe medications and other drug therapies. AMCP members improve the lives of nearly 300 million Americans served by private and public health plans, pharmacy benefit management firms, and emerging care models. For more information, visit www.amcp.org . SOURCE AMCP Federated Hermes obtains more than $3.5 billion in SMA assets Entire C.W. Henderson team joins Federated Hermes PITTSBURGH, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Federated Hermes, Inc. (NYSE: FHI), a global leader in active, responsible investing, today announced the completion of the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of C.W. Henderson & Associates, Inc., a Chicago-based registered investment advisor specializing in the management of separately managed accounts (SMAs) that invest in tax-exempt municipal securities. The 11-person, Chicago-based C.W. Henderson team joins Federated Hermes and continues to manage two municipal bond productsintermediate and ultrashortin approximately 1,500 direct and sub-advised SMA account portfolios available through more than 50 financial intermediaries. Founded in 1990, C.W. Henderson focuses on the following goals: generating tax-free income; utilizing highly liquid municipal bonds with high credit quality and conservative durations; minimizing taxes with a proactive, opportunistic approach to tax-loss harvesting; extracting value across the yield curve through tax-efficient active management; and exceptional client service. C.W. Henderson's municipal bond products join Federated Hermes' existing $13.3 billion in municipal bond assets under management across fixed-income, liquidity and multi-asset categories, bringing the firm's total municipal bond managed assets to approximately $16.8 billion1. With the acquisition, Federated Hermes' total SMA assets are approximately $29 billion2. The newly acquired business is now branded as Federated Hermes CW Henderson, a division of Federated Investment Counseling. "We are pleased to offer the C.W. Henderson products to our clients as complements to our existing range of municipal bond offerings, as well as our full range of equity, fixed-income, liquidity, alternative and private markets strategies," said J. Christopher Donahue, president and chief executive officer of Federated Hermes. "The acquisition also provides C.W. Henderson's clients access to Federated Hermes' diverse range of investment strategies and extensive customer service capabilities." "As part of Federated Hermes, we look forward to continuing to offer our clients customized municipal bond solutions to meet their long-term goals," said Craig Henderson, head of investment area-Fixed Income Muni SMA at Federated Hermes. "Federated Hermes brings the resources of a leading global investment manager, including extensive marketing and distribution capabilities that can bring our municipal-bond products to the attention of an even wider range of investors and financial intermediaries." Federated Hermes, Inc. is a global leader in active, responsible investment management, with $631.9 billion in assets under management, as of June 30, 2022. We deliver investment solutions that help investors target a broad range of outcomes and provide equity, fixed-income, alternative/private markets, multi-asset and liquidity management strategies to more than 11,000 institutions and intermediaries worldwide. Our clients include corporations, government entities, insurance companies, foundations and endowments, banks and broker/dealers. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Federated Hermes has nearly 2,000 employees in London, New York and offices worldwide. Federated Hermes ranks in the top 7% of equity fund managers in the industry, the top 10% of fixed-income fund managers and the top 11% of money market fund managers3. Federated Hermes also ranks as the 5th-largest manager of model-delivered SMAs4. For more information, visit FederatedHermes.com. ### 1) As of Aug. 31, 2022. 2) As of July 31, 2022. 3) ISS Market Intelligence (SIMFUND), June 30, 2022. Based on assets under management in open-end funds. 4) Money Management Institute/Cerulli Q2 2022. Certain statements in this press release, such as those related to investment opportunities for CW Henderson clients, the results of the acquisition and future transaction prospects for Federated Hermes, constitute forward-looking statements, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of the company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Other risks and uncertainties include risk factors discussed in the company's annual and quarterly reports as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result, no assurance can be given as to future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements, and neither the company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of such statements in the future. SOURCE Federated Hermes, Inc. LOS ANGELES, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Schall Law Firm , a national shareholder rights litigation firm, reminds investors of a class action lawsuit against Carvana Co. ("Carvana" or "the Company") (NYSE: CVNA) for violations of 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors who purchased the Company's securities between May 6, 2020 and June 24, 2022, inclusive (the ''Class Period''), are encouraged to contact the firm before October 3, 2022. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at [email protected]. The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. According to the Complaint, the Company made false and misleading statements to the market. Carvana suffered from ongoing problems related to the title, registration, and documentation of many of its vehicles. The Company was forced to issue temporary license plates quite frequently. The Company was violating laws and regulations in many of its existing markets. These legal violations put the Company's business at risk. The Company was at imminent risk of penalties including license revocation and business cessation in states including Arizona, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and North Carolina. Based on these facts, the Company's public statements were false and materially misleading. When the market learned the truth about Carvana, investors suffered damages. Join the case to recover your losses. The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics. CONTACT: The Schall Law Firm Brian Schall, Esq., www.schallfirm.com Office: 310-301-3335 [email protected] SOURCE The Schall Law Firm 85% of professionals at financial institutions agree: open finance is already making the financial services industry more collaborative and is having a positive impact LONDON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Finastra today revealed a sneak peek at its annual State of the Nation Financial Services research. Results point to the significant progress the industry has made around open finance and collaboration, despite the challenging market conditions of the last few years. The research takes in views from 758 professionals at financial institutions and banks across France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UAE, the UK and the US, and finds: 85% of professionals agree that open finance is already making the industry more collaborative and is having a positive impact 8 in 10 consider the sector open to collaboration, with 87% recognizing this as an improvement compared to five years ago "These compelling figures speak to a marked industry shift towards 'open' and reflect our journey, creating ways to innovate at scale and pace, and accelerate innovation through collaboration," said Simon Paris, CEO at Finastra. "In 2018 we declared that the future of finance is open. And we weren't just talking about Open Banking, but true open finance disrupting and reshaping the foundation of financial services. That future is now, and we can simply say: finance is open." In the last few years, the industry has seen the unbundling of banking, with institutions offering products procured outside of their organization, a move to contextual and conscious banking services which meet the customer at the point of need, and a greater desire from many companies to do well by doing good. All of these form part of the shift to open. The encouraging research findings coincide with the launch of season two on Finastra Universe TV a new series of on-demand digital thought leadership videos exploring this world of open finance. Tune in to the free-to-access content, designed to help financial institutions better compete, with insights from Finastra experts, industry analysts and customers that are shaping the world of finance. Explore the latest trends in lending, payments, universal banking (digital, retail and commercial banking), treasury and capital markets, and Finastra's broader commitments, including: Open technology: Collaborating to innovate An open platform and open and collaborative ecosystem are enablers for fairer and more accessible banking services: Finastra's Banking as a Service (BaaS) strategy is focused on orchestrating a financial ecosystem that creates economic growth via greater accessibility to affordable financial services. This is underpinned by FusionFabric.cloud an open platform for innovation and collaboration. The platform is the key orchestrator in driving innovation to Finastra customers, whether they are banks, financial institutions or other fintechs. Since its launch, FusionFabric.cloud has opened up over 300 APIs and datasets, enabling the launch of over 200 fintech applications, now consumed by over 700 customers. Open communities: Creating more equitable access to banking Sustainable environmental and social value creation in financial services has never been more important. Technology allows for greater access, transparency and equality at scale an opportunity to contribute to a better world: Providing critical capital to the SME sector with ICC TradeComm a trade funding marketplace matching supply and demand, ultimately aiming to decrease the global trade finance gap. Delivering affordable access to formal financial services to 100 million 'unbanked' members of credit unions and Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) by 2030 through collaboration with our customers in the developing world. Finastra has also invested in supporting financial literacy programs for schoolchildren, students and business owners as far afield as the southern US and east Africa . Open culture: Building a path for success through diversity, equity and inclusion Breaking through barriers, building skills and creating a workplace where people feel they belong contributes to Finastra's 'open by default' DE&I mantra: 2030 is the year Finastra expects to achieve 50:50 gender equality across its operations. Finastra has reached its ambition at the executive leadership level and is continuing the journey to embrace the full spectrum of diversity while creating an open culture where everyone can thrive. Access Finastra Universe TV here. Finastra's 2022 ESG report is available here. Notes to editors: 758 professionals (at managerial level) at financial institutions and banks across France , Germany , Hong Kong , Singapore , the UAE, the UK and the US, are included in the upcoming 2022 research report. These financial institutions represent a gross total of just over USD$28 billion in turnover over the last 12 months, employ approximately 1.9m staff and have approximately 147 million client/customer/member relationships. , , , , the UAE, the UK and the US, are included in the upcoming 2022 research report. These financial institutions represent a gross total of just over in turnover over the last 12 months, employ approximately staff and have approximately 147 million client/customer/member relationships. Research was conducted by Savanta via an online panel ( September 2022 ). For further information please contact: Caroline Duff PR Director T +44 (0)7917 613586 E [email protected] About Finastra Finastra is a global provider of financial software applications and marketplaces, and launched the leading open platform for innovation, FusionFabric.cloud, in 2017. It serves institutions of all sizes, providing award-winning solutions and services across Lending, Payments, Treasury & Capital Markets and Universal Banking (digital, retail and commercial banking) for banks to support direct banking relationships and grow through indirect channels, such as embedded finance and Banking as a Service. Its pioneering approach and commitment to open finance and collaboration is why it is trusted by ~8,600 institutions, including 90 of the world's top 100 banks. For more information, visit finastra.com. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/967510/Finastra_Logo.jpg SOURCE Finastra Agrifoods industry leader in technology-enabled food safety, quality and sustainability solutions rebrands to better meet customer needs FAIRFIELD, Iowa, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FoodChain ID, a leading provider of data-driven food safety, quality and sustainability solutions, has integrated its product portfolio under the trusted FoodChain ID brand to provide customers with a single point of contact for accurate data, market-specific insights and industry-leading services. Through extensive market research, FoodChain ID found that the tight labor market, waning institutional knowledge and increasing market demands were cited as challenges for food and agricultural companies seeking specialized knowledge and digital solutions to maintain product safety and compliance. FoodChain ID has responded by integrating its service offerings to ensure clients have easy access to critical expertise that helps keep the food supply chain safe and transparent. "The majority of our clients conveyed the challenge of having to do more with fewer resources," said Brad Riemenapp, CEO of FoodChain ID. "As a global agrifoods company with over 30,000 clients, we saw the need to increase support for our customers' business goals and more clearly communicate the broad range of services we offer. We look forward to working with our customers to help them mitigate risk and enable growth by making it easier to access accurate data, valuable insights and purpose-built solutions." FoodChain ID has unified the collective intelligence of the most trusted data and expertise in the food industry covering a wide range of functions and capabilities, including: Product Development Food Safety Regulatory Compliance Product Certifications Testing FoodChain ID provides customers with quality data and insights that are vetted by responsive, knowledgeable experts and advanced software, so companies can be confident entrusting their reputation with FoodChain ID. To learn more about FoodChain ID and its wide array of services and expertise, visit foodchainid.com. About FoodChain ID Over 30,000 companies across the global supply chain rely on FoodChain ID as their trusted partner to navigate the increasingly regulated food economy with greater transparency, safety and sustainability. By providing clients with technology-enabled solutions supported by the industry's most comprehensive data and knowledgeable experts, FoodChain ID is an essential source of timely, accurate information and expertise. Services include regulatory compliance and product development applications, as well as testing, food safety and product certification solutions. Visit www.foodchainid.com for more information. Contact: Kelly Bradley 2.718 Marketing [email protected] 312-661-1050 SOURCE FoodChain ID WAUKESHA, Wis., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Generac Power Systems (NYSE: GNRC), a leading global designer and manufacturer of energy technology solutions and other power products, and EODev, a French developer and manufacturer of zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell power generators, today announced a formal distribution agreement. Generac will offer EODev's GEH2 a large-scale, zero-emissions hydrogen fuel cell power generator to the North American market. Generac is partnering with EODev to offer GEH2 hydrogen fuel cell power generators to North America. The distribution agreement signifies the continued growth and availability of alternative energy solutions for the industrial power sector, which addresses a pioneering market in the transition to low-carbon and emission-free power solutions. This collaboration emphasizes Generac's Powering A Smarter World strategic focus and equally expands EODev's presence in the North American market with its cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind hydrogen fuel cell power generators. Generac has placed an initial order for the GEH2 generators, some of which have already arrived in the United States. Generac's ability to manage in-house service and maintenance, rental solutions and client support teams across the country make it an ideal partner for EODev's expansion plans in North America, as Generac can provide end-clients relevant support to handle acquisition, installation, and servicing of the GEH2 units. "Generac Industrial Power is proud to partner with EODev to offer GEH2 hydrogen fuel cell power generators to North America," said Erik Wilde, executive vice president of Industrial Americas at Generac. "Harnessing the power of hydrogen allows us to provide solutions that are engineered for the planet, while delivering value to customers committed to investments in carbon-free solutions. Hydrogen fuel cell power generators can play an important component in the expanding alternative energy space, and the GEH2 platform demonstrates our commitment to providing cutting-edge products that improve energy resiliency, optimize energy efficiency, and lead in environmental stewardship." "We are delighted to have Generac further the EODev promise in the North American market. Beyond their vast expertise, we share a common ambition to accelerate the energy transition through our clean and innovative solutions," said Jeremie Lagarrigue, chief executive officer of EODev. "Thanks to EODev's GEH2, tomorrow's solutions for carbon-free power generation in North America are already available today. We look forward to sharing with you their first projects in this promising market." GEH2, the ally of the energy transition on land The GEH2 uses a fuel cell and a lithium iron phosphate battery, reducing noise emissions and providing an instant start. This combination of power enables the GEH2 to deliver up to 110 kVA of power. Developed to be easy to use, the GEH2 is equipped with event-driven electrical outlets, standardized frequency and voltage levels, as well as remote monitoring and data acquisition. Designed to provide virtually any energy ecosystem with instantaneous power, the GEH2 offers a silent solution without emissions of CO 2 , HC, NO x , or fine particles. The GEH2 emits only warm water and filtered air. With its plug-and-play approach, the GEH2 was developed with the aim of easily integrating into all industries and environments. Designed to meet environmental challenges without sacrificing efficiency, it is suitable for virtually all sites and sectors of activity, whether prospective customers are seeking energy autonomy, desiring a backup solution, or operating in a confined site or regulated zero-emissions zones. For more information on Generac Industrial Power, visit the website. About Generac Generac Power Systems, Inc. (NYSE: GNRC) is a leading energy technology company that provides advanced power grid software solutions, backup, and prime power systems for home and industrial applications, solar + battery storage solutions, virtual power plant platforms and engine- and battery-powered tools and equipment. Founded in 1959, Generac introduced the first affordable backup generator and later created the category of automatic home standby generator - a market in which nearly eight of ten generators sold is a Generac. The company is committed to sustainable, cleaner energy products poised to revolutionize the 21st-century electrical grid. About EODev EODev is an innovative greentech industrial company founded in France in 2019 with the aim of accelerating the energy transition thanks to sustainable, reliable and affordable energy solutions using hydrogen. EODev is a world leader in the design and industrialization of zero-emission power generation systems with its GEH2 electro-hydrogen unit for stationary and mobile operations, and REXH2 for marine applications. For more information, visit www.eo.dev and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. SOURCE Generac Power Systems, Inc. CALGARY, AB, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Gibson Energy Inc. announced today that it expects to release its 2022 third quarter financial and operating results on Monday, October 31, 2022 after the close of North American markets. The 2022 third quarter management's discussion and analysis and unaudited consolidated financial statements will be available on the Company's website at www.gibsonenergy.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Related Documents View PDF Gibson Energy Confirms 2022 Third Quarter Earnings Release Date and Provides Conference Call & Webcast Details (CNW Group/Gibson Energy Inc.) Earnings Conference Call & Webcast Details A conference call and webcast will be held to discuss the 2022 third quarter financial and operating results at 7:00am Mountain Time (9:00am Eastern Time) on Tuesday, November 1, 2022. The conference call dial-in numbers are: 416-764-8659 / 1-888-664-6392 Conference ID: 70584022 This call will also be broadcast live on the Internet and may be accessed directly at the following URL: The webcast will remain accessible for a 12-month period at the above URL. Additionally, a digital recording will be available for replay two hours after the call's completion until November 15, 2022, using the following dial-in numbers: 416-764-8677 / 1-888-390-0541 Replay Entry Code: 584022 # About Gibson Gibson Energy Inc. ("Gibson" or the "Company") (TSX: GEI) is a Canadian-based liquids infrastructure company with its principal businesses consisting of the storage, optimization, processing, and gathering of liquids and refined products. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, the Company's operations are focused around its core terminal assets located at Hardisty and Edmonton, Alberta, and include the Moose Jaw Facility and an infrastructure position in the U.S. Gibson shares trade under the symbol GEI and are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. For more information, visit www.gibsonenergy.com. For further information, please contact: Mark Chyc-Cies Vice President, Strategy, Planning & Investor Relations Phone: (403) 776-3146 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Gibson Energy Inc. DUBLIN, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Anti-Drone Market By Technology, By Type, By Application, By End User, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global anti-drone market is anticipated to grow at a significant rate in the forecast period, 2023-2027 Factors such as the rise in terrorism activities worldwide and the increased use of drones for commercial and military purposes are driving the demand for the global anti-drone market. Terrorist organizations are actively using drones to breach the security of their enemy nations which is dangerous to the lives of citizens. Leading authorities of different countries are investing in advancing their existing flight and increasing the number of devices used for surveillance and monitoring activities. Also, the technological advancements in drone technology and the development of compact drones are expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for the market players in the next five years. They are developing anti-drone technologies that can detect micro and mini unmanned aerial vehicle from long ranges. Market players are introducing novel drones and are continuously working to change with technology to stay ahead in the market. The global anti-drone market is segmented into technology, type, application, end user, regional distribution, and competitive landscape. Based on technology, the market is divided into electronic systems, laser systems, and kinetic systems. Electronic systems are expected to hold the largest market share in the forecast period, 2023-2027. Infrared sensor systems, RF jammers, radar, electro-optical systems, and GNSS jammers are examples of electronic equipment employed in anti-drone operations. Global demand for this product category is being driven by an increase in public and private sector investments in developing electronic anti-drone systems. Based on type, the market is divided into ground-based, handheld, and UAV-based. The ground-based segment is expected to capture the highest market share in the forecast period. Ground-based anti-drone systems are widely accessible, and their manufacturers are constantly advancing existing technology to meet current market demands.Ground-based anti-drone systems have effective, long-range monitoring and detection capabilities which fuels their market demand. Objective of the Study: To analyze the historical growth in the market size of the global anti-drone market from 2017 to 2021. To estimate and forecast the market size of global anti-drone market from 2022E to 2027F and growth rate until 2027F. To classify and forecast the global anti-drone market based on technology, type, application, end user, region, and company. To identify the dominant region or segment in the global anti-drone market. To identify drivers and challenges for the global anti-drone market. To examine competitive developments such as expansions, new product launches, mergers & acquisitions, etc., in the global anti-drone market. To identify and analyze the profiles of leading players operating in the global anti-drone market. To identify key sustainable strategies adopted by market players in global anti-drone market. Competitive Landscape Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in global anti-drone market. Blighter Surveillance Systems Ltd. Lockheed Martin Corp. Leonardo S.p.A SRC, Inc. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. DroneShield Ltd. Thales Group Raytheon Technologies Corp. Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. Liteye Systems, Inc. Report Scope Years considered for this report: Historical Years: 2017-2020 Base Year: 2021 Estimated Year: 2022E Forecast Period: 2023F-2027F Anti-Drone Market, By Technology: Electronic Systems Laser Systems Kinetic Systems Anti-Drone Market, By Type: Ground-Based Handheld UAV-Based Anti-Drone Market, By Application: Detection Disruption Anti-Drone Market, By End User: Government Military & Defense Commercial Others Anti-Drone Market, By Region: North America United States Canada Mexico Asia-Pacific China India Japan Thailand Indonesia Australia South Korea Europe & CIS & CIS Germany France United Kingdom Spain Italy Netherlands Russia Poland South America Brazil Argentina Middle East & Africa & Saudi Arabia Iran Israel UAE Turkey For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vaggr3 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 DUBLIN, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Strategic Analysis of Automotive App Stores Market" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The study addresses new business models, growth opportunities and recommendations for different stakeholders to envision better customer-centric decisions and integrate technology and connectivity in cars. This strategic analysis of app stores offers insight into a new business model that will shape the automotive industry in the coming years. The in-car app store ecosystem consists primarily of automakers, brands, platform providers, app store developers, payment integrators, and users. The study also analyzes current developments in the in-car app store, white-label app store providers, services, and technology and partnerships that are in place today, as well as likely developments that will occur in this space. Automakers can transcend their current role as manufacturers to become technology partners by embracing digital transformation and enhancing the customer journey throughout the vehicle's lifecycle through vehicle infotainment and introducing new touchpoints by creating an app store platform. By leveraging the mobile app store and incorporating it in vehicles, automotive companies are providing a new channel for consumers to extend their digital lifestyle, which will become an important determinant of purchase. Building an app store will become an essential feature that may help truly distinguish the vehicle ownership experience. Vehicle owners who are digitally savvy will expect the same ease of use and experience found in the smartphone industry. The challenge is to identify the right tools and partners to develop the right solutions and have a positive impact on the vehicle ownership journey. This study investigates potential avenues for new customer-facing tools to pioneer customer experience and potential ways for the app store platform automotive adoption. Secondary and primary research methods helped develop the analysis and identify opportunities. The evolution of the app store, recent OEM initiatives in the app store domain, ecosystem analysis, and future roadmap are also analyzed. Research Scope Decode the app store for the automotive sector. Identify existing and upcoming business models offered for the in-vehicle app store. Classify ecosystem players according to their functions in the market. Analyze the future impact of app store data generated from the vehicles. Describe the structure of the automotive app store value chain. Analyze Tier I suppliers' strategic investment in the app store landscape. Map future roadmap of automotive app store. Key Issues Addressed How will a similar app store to smartphone industry be integrated in the automotive industry? Who are the key stakeholders involved? What are the key partnerships that need to be built to be successful? Which important factors are influencing innovation in the app store ecosystem? What are the key industry initiatives? Which participants are impacting technology development? What future growth opportunities will present themselves? 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 the Automotive App Store Industry Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine 2. Growth Opportunity Analysis Decoding App Store Automotive App Store Value Chain Evolution of the App Store Automotive Digital Medium: Untapped Potential App Store Economy Google's Foray into the Automotive Space Android Auto's App Ecosystem: Cars App Library Apple's Plan for the Automotive Industry Market Growth Analysis - Investments and Focus Areas Strategic Options for Automakers OEM Recent Initiatives in App Store Domain App Store to Create New Income Streams for Automakers App Store Ecosystem Key Requirements for App Store Adoption Tier I Suppliers' Strategic Investment in App Store Landscape Harman Ignite App Store Faurecia Aptoide App store Visteon AllGo App Store App Store Data Management - Regional Differences In-Car Applications Roadmap Migration from App-as-a-Service to Insights-as-a-Service Growth Drivers Growth Restraints Strategic Imperatives for Success and Growth What's in it for OEMs? Automakers App Stores : The Way Forward 3. Growth Opportunity Universe Growth Opportunity 1: OEM Building Branded App Store Growth Opportunity 2: Data Security and Privacy Critical for App Store Success Growth Opportunity 3: Integrating Payment Interface in App-Store Companies Mentioned Faurecia Harman Visteon Google Apple For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/sny496 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 Key Points Covered in the Medical Gases Market Report: Am I engaging with the right suppliers? Which KPIs should I use to evaluate my incumbent suppliers? Which supplier selection criteria are relevant for ERP Software? What are the ERP Software category essentials in terms of SLAs and RFx? Key Global Suppliers in the Medical Gases Market: Linde L'Air Liquide Air Products and Chemicals Know more... This report offers detailed insights and analysis of the major cost drivers, volume drivers, and innovations of the medical gases procurement and sourcing market, which the global suppliers have been leveraging to gain a competitive edge across regions. This medical gases procurement market study also includes a complete analysis of procurement strategies used by major category end-users in a wide range of industries while sourcing medical gases. In addition, this report investigates the most extensively used and high-potential pricing models used by buyers, which will help in determining business opportunities for revenue growth. These figures can assist buyers in generating cost reductions and identifying sales strategies. Request a Report Sample to Gain Comprehensive Insights at Medical Gases Market: https://www.spendedge.com/sample-report/medical-gases-procurement-market-intelligence-report Related Trending Topics: Subscribe to our "Free Limited Period Starter Procurement Plan" to get the following: View 6 full reports View 800+ report samples Pre-order upcoming reports Dedicated account manager Signup for our subscription services now for FREE! 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 DUBLIN, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Neutral Hosting Market by Technology, Spectrum, Wireless Type, Solution, Deployment Modes and Industry Verticals 2022 - 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This neutral host report provides an in-depth analysis of next generation neutral host architecture, technology, and potential application areas. The report also discussed the core and RAN elements of neutral host networks along with potential market opportunity, stakeholder analysis, business model, and regulatory analysis. Mobile network operators have relied upon distributed antenna systems (DAS) solutions for many years to meet the need for indoor traffic in the places where people congregate. This includes stadiums, convention centers, airports, major hotels, shopping malls, enterprise buildings, college campuses, transit systems, and other high traffic venues. Traditionally MNOs build and operate indoor DAS networks themselves but it is often considered as an expensive mode of deployment and limits the space to deploy the same capacity for multiple MNOs. Neutral host networks are considered an optimal solution to overcome the problem of tackling large traffic in densely populated locations for multiple operators. Under the neutral host model, a third party builds and operates a single wireless network and hosts multiple MNOs to connect the wireless customers. The third-party host operator initially funds the neutral host deployment that ultimately gets paid by MNOs through a recurring payment system. The neutral host model also works as an alternative to carrier-deployed WiFi solutions to tackle indoor wireless traffic. The DAS-based neutral host model overcomes the common problems associated with carrier WiFi such as network security, network performance, user mobility, and interference and service degradation associated with unlicensed spectrum. The report also evaluates the competitive landscape of the next generation network along with the product and services of selected vendor companies. The report includes market forecasts for next generation neutral host networks from 2022 to 2027. The report also provides specific recommendations for stakeholders. Select Report Findings: The global neutral hosting market will become a $8.3 billion opportunity by 2027 opportunity by 2027 North America will lead the neutral hosting market followed by Asia Pac and Europe will lead the neutral hosting market followed by and Distributed antenna system based neutral hosting networks will critical for public venue deployments Citizens Band Radio Service spectrum establishes the foundation for next generation neutral hosting networks Private wireless networks for enterprise, industrial and government deployments are a major market driver for neutral hosting Neutral hosting environment for private enterprise and industrial solutions will consist of a combination of WiFi6, LTE, and 5G radio equipment DAS-based neutral host solutions will dramatically increase as the demand for serving traffic from multiple MNOs from the same host becomes imperative Key Topics Covered: 1.0 Executive Summary 2.0 Introduction 2.1 Neutral Host Networks 2.1.1 NHN Motivation and Usage 2.1.2 Carrier Driven Neutral Host Model 2.1.3 Metnet as Neutral Host 2.1.4 Neutral Host Network Architecture 2.1.4.1 Device Management Systems 2.1.4.2 Baseband Controllers 2.1.4.3 Ethernet Fronthaul 2.1.4.4 Radio Points 2.1.4.5 RF Modules 2.2 NHN Core and RAN Network Element 2.2.1 Neutral Host Mobility Management Entity 2.2.2 Local AAA/Proxy Server 2.2.3 Neutral Host Gateway 2.2.4 Citizens Band Radio Service Devices 2.3 Neutral Host Network Market Drivers 2.3.1 Alternatives to MNO Services 2.3.2 Private Networks 2.4 Neutral Host Network Market Challenges 2.5 Neutral Host Value Chain Analysis 2.5.1 Venue Owners 2.5.2 Neutral Host Providers 2.5.3 Connectivity Providers 2.5.4 Mobile Network Operators 2.5.5 Spectrum Owners 2.5.6 End User Groups 2.5.7 Service Providers 2.5.8 Equipment Vendors 2.5.9 Software Developers 2.5.10 Content Providers 2.6 Neutral Host Business Model 2.6.1 Multi-Operator Small Cells as a Service 2.6.2 Spectrum-Based NHNs 2.6.3 NHN Private Network 2.7 Covid-19 Impact Analysis 2.8 Regulatory Analysis 2.8.1 CBRS/OnGo Alliance 2.8.2 5GPPP 2.8.3 Open Industry 4.0 Alliance 2.8.4 Open Manufacturing Platform 2.8.5 Small Cell Forum 3.0 Neutral Hosting Technology and Application Analysis 3.1 Neutral Host Technology Analysis 3.1.1 DAS Equipment 3.1.2 Applications 3.1.3 Carrier WiFi 3.1.4 Small Cells 3.1.4.1 Small Cell Costs 3.1.5 Self-Organizing Network 3.2 Neutral Host Spectrum Analysis 3.2.1 CBRS 3.2.2 LTE 3.2.3 5G 3.3 Outdoor vs. Indoor Deployment 3.4 Neutral Host Application Analysis 3.4.1 Public Venues and Safety 3.4.2 Transportation and Ports 3.4.3 Industrial 3.4.4 Hospitality 3.4.5 Healthcare 3.4.6 Education 3.4.7 Corporate Offices 3.4.8 Retail 3.5 Neutral Small Cell Host and 5G 3.6 Multi-Carrier DAS, Network Slicing, and Neutral Host 3.7 Network Orchestration and Neutral Host 3.8 Edge Deployment and Neutral Host 3.9 User Device/Equipment for Neutral Host 3.10 Industrial Network and NHN Private Network or Stand-alone Non-public Networks 3.11 Neutral Host Network and MNOs 3.12 Unlicensed and Dynamically-Licensed Spectrum 4.0 Neutral Hosting Company Analysis 4.1 Alpha Wireless 4.2 American Tower 4.3 BAI Communications 4.4 Boingo Wireless 4.5 BT Wholesale 4.6 Cellnex Telecom 4.7 Colt Technologies 4.8 Comba Telecom 4.9 Commscope 4.10 Crown Castle 4.11 Dense Air 4.12 Digital Bridge 4.13 Even Group 4.14 ExteNet Systems 4.15 Freshwave Group 4.16 Mobilitie LLC 4.17 Netmore Group 4.18 Real Wireless 4.19 Wireless 20/20 5.0 Neutral Hosting Market Analysis and Forecasts 2022 - 2027 5.1 Global Neutral Hosting Market 2022 - 2027 5.1.1 Global Neutral Hosting Market 5.1.2 Global Neutral Hosting Market by Technology 5.1.3 Global Neutral Hosting Market by Spectrum 5.1.4 Global Neutral Hosting Market by Solution 5.1.5 Global Neutral Hosting Market by Deployment 5.1.6 Global Neutral Hosting Market by Industry Vertical 5.2 Regional Neutral Hosting Market 2022 - 2027 6.0 Conclusions and Recommendations For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/wbmfct 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, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Online Travel Market 2022" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Online travel agencies will witness high growth opportunities The global travel market is recovering from the negative effects of the pandemic, according to the recent data cited in the report. This provides a growth momentum to the online travel booking channel, which is poised to expand substantially in 2022 compared to the past year. For instance, the USA will see a double-digit growth of the gross airline bookings coming from online channels after 2022. For the Asia-Pacific market as well, the use of online platforms for booking travel related services is expected to rise in the coming years, with double-digit CAGR predicted for countries including Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Booking.com leads the online travel market sales across regions As revealed by this report, Booking.com was the highest revenue maker globally within the online travel agencies market, reaching to a double-digit billion of dollars revenue figure in 2021. It also had a close to hundred million mobile app downloads in the same year. In Asia-Pacific, Booking.com was the most visited travel and tourism website. Competitors such as Expedia Group and Airbnb also experience growth in various markets as highlighted in the new report. Questions Covered in the report: What are the emerging trends currently and, in the future, impacting the Online travel market? Which are the leading Online Travel Apps and websites globally? What is the projected development of online travel booking in the Southeast Asian market by 2024? What is the expected growth of Online Travel bookings in Europe as of 2025? as of 2025? As of 2021, which are the top payment methods used by travelers in Mexico to book travel online? to book travel online? What are the most preferred travel booking channels in the Middle Eastern and African regions? Key Topics Covered: 1. Management Summary 2. Global Travel Market Overview and Trends, July 2022 (1 of 2) (1 of 2) Travel Market Overview and Trends, July 2022 (2 of 2) (2 of 2) International Departures, in % of 2019 Levels, 2022e-2025f Online Travel Agencies Gross Bookings, in USD billion, 2018-2020 & 2025f Breakdown of Internet Traffic Source in Travel & Hospitality vs All Industries, by Devices, in %, 2021 Breakdown of Online Travel Sales, by Desktop and Mobile, in %, 2020 & 2021 Cart Abandonment Rate in Online Travel to Overall E-Commerce, in %, 2021 Online Travel Cart Abandonment Rate, by Desktop and Mobile, in %, 2021 Reasons Why Consumers Abandon Their Carts During Travel Booking, in % of Consumers Who Abandoned Their Carts, 2021 Revenue of the Top 5 Travel Websites, in USD billion, 2021 Top 10 Most Downloaded Online Travel Agency Apps, by Downloads, in millions, 2021 3. North America 3.1. USA Online Travel Agencies Gross Bookings, in USD billion, 2019, 2021 & 2022f Online Travel Agencies' Share of Online Travel Gross Bookings, by Segment, in %, 2021 Online Hotel Gross Bookings, in USD billion, and Breakdown by Direct and OTA, in %, 2019, 2021 & 2023f Top 10 Hotel Booking Channels, incl. OTAs and Direct, 2021 Top 10 Most Downloaded Online Travel Agency Apps, by Downloads, in millions, 2021 Fastest Growing Online Travel Agency Apps, in % Y-O-Y App Session Growth, Q4 2021 Gross Direct Airline Bookings Made Via Mobile Devices, in USD million and Mobile Share of Direct Online Gross Booking in %, 2019 - 2025f Top 5 Features of Travel Credit Cards, in % of Respondents, August 2021 4. Asia-Pacific 4.1. Regional Top 10 Hotel Booking Channels, incl. "OTA" and "Direct Booking", 2021 Online Travel Gross Bookings, in USD billion, 2019 & 2024f 4.2. China Online Travel Bookings, in CNY trillion, 2020 & 2021e Breakdown of Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value by Direct and OTA, in %, 2021 Online Travel Agencies Gross Merchandise Value, in CNY billion, Y-O-Y Change in %, 2019-2022f Factors Online Travel Bookers Pay Attention to, in % of Online Travel Bookers, 2021 Top 5 Online Travel Websites by Monthly Active Users, in millions, 2021 China : Top 5 OTAs by Market Share, in % of Online Travel Agencies Sales, 2021 : Top 5 OTAs by Market Share, in % of Online Travel Agencies Sales, 2021 Breakdown of Online Travel Ticket GMV by Segment, in %, and Online Share of GMV in Each Ticket Segment, in %, 2021 Gross Merchandise Value of Online Accommodation Market, in CNY billion, in % Y-O-Y Change, 2019-2022f 4.3. Japan Virtual Tour Sales, in JPY billion, 2020 & 2021e Reasons for Choosing Virtual Tours, in % of Respondents, 2021 4.4. India Total Travel Sales, in USD billion, and Breakdown by Channel, in %, 2020 & 2027f Top 10 Online Travel Booking Channels, incl. "OTA" and "Direct Booking", 2021 4.5. Australia Online Travel Bookings, in AUD million, And Year-on-Year Change, in %, 2018-2022f 4.6. Indonesia Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value, in USD billion, 2019-2021 & 2025f 4.7. Thailand Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value, in USD billion, 2021 & 2025f Top 10 Hotel Booking Channels, incl. "OTA" and "Direct Booking", 2021 4.8. Singapore Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value, in USD billion, 2019-2021 & 2025f 4.9. Malaysia Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value, in USD billion, 2019-2021 & 2025f 4.10. Vietnam Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value, in USD billion, 2019-2021 & 2025f 4.11. Philippines Online Travel Gross Merchandise Value, in USD billion, 2019-2021 & 2025f 5. Europe 5.1. Regional Online Share of Total Travel Bookings, in %, 2021 & 2025f Number of Guests in Short-Stay Accommodation Booked via Online Platforms, in millions, 2019-2021 5.2. UK Number of Visits to Travel Websites, by Category, in thousands, and in % Change, January 2022 & April 2022 & Travel Website Reach, by Category, in %, and Top Player in Each Category, Q1 2022 5.3. Germany Online Travel Agency Sales Growth Compared to Levels in the Same Period in 2019, in %, May - October 2022e Share of Adults Using the Internet to Search for Information Before Purchasing Goods and Services, by Category, incl. "Travel", in % of Online Shoppers, 2021 Travel Information Researched Online, by Category, in million Trips, 2020 & 2021 Use of Digital and Analog Channels to Book Travel, by Age Group, in % of Travelers, 2021 Channels Used by Travelers to Book a Holiday, by Duration of Trips, in % of Travelers, 2021 Top Reasons for Booking a Holiday Online, in % of Travelers, 2021 Top 10 Hotel Booking Channels, incl. "OTA" and "Direct Booking", 2021 5.4. France Breakdown of Preferred Booking Channels Used When Booking a Holiday Accommodation, in % of Travelers, 2021 Breakdown of Preferred Booking Channels, by Category, in % Travelers, 2021 Top 10 Travel Sites, by Number of Visitors, in thousands, January 2022 Online Channels Used to Book Flight Tickets, by Age Group, in % of Travelers, by Age Group, 2021 5.5. Italy Share of Online Bookings Concluded Directly on the Website of the Hotel/ Private Accommodation, in % of All Accommodation Bookings, 2019 - 2021 Mobile Share of Supplier-Direct Online Gross Travel Bookings, in %, 2021 & 2025f 5.6. Spain Goods and Services Bought Online, incl. "Travel", in % of Online Shoppers, 2020 & 2021 Top 5 Booking Channels, in % of Travel Reservations, 2021 5.7. Netherlands Top 5 Travel and Tourism Websites, by Visits*, May 2022 5.8. Russia Travel Revenue Generated from Online Channels, in %, 2024f Top 5 Travel and Tourism Websites, by Visits, May 2022 5.9. Poland Share of Travelers Booking Their Trips via OTAs, in %, Q4 2021 6. Latin America 6.1. Regional Online Travel Sales, in USD billion, 2019-2020 & 2024f 6.2. Brazil Online Travel Penetration Rate, in %, 2023f Top 5 Travel and Tourism Websites Ranked by Visits*, May 2022 6.3. Mexico Breakdown of the Channels Used to Purchase Travel Related Products and Services, in % of Travelers, 2021 Payment Methods Used By Travelers Book Travel Online, in % of Digital Travelers, 2021 7. Middle East & Africa 7.1. Regional Top 10 Hotel Booking Channels, incl. "OTA" and "Direct Booking", 2021 7.2. UAE Breakdown of Channels Used to Make Hotel Reservations, in %, 2021 Top 5 Most Visited Travel and Tourism Websites Ranked by Visits*, June 2022 7.3. Saudi Arabia Top 5 Most Visited Travel and Tourism Websites, by Total Visits in millions, June 2022 7.4. South Africa Top 10 Hotel Booking Channels, incl. OTA and Direct Booking, 2021 Top 5 Accommodation Booking Websites Ranked by Visits, June 2022 Companies Mentioned Agoda Airbnb Booking.com Ctrip Expedia Hoper Hotwire Leboncoin.fr Orbitz OYO Skyscanner Travel.Yandex.ru Traveloka Trip.com Tripadvisor Trivago Tutu.ru Webbeds For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/2233d4 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 BOSTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Goulston & Storrs, an Am Law 200 firm, is pleased to announce that directors Joshua Davis and Elizabeth Levine have been selected as 2022 Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment Stars. The 5th edition of the Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment annual guide recognizes the most preeminent labor & employment litigation practitioners in the U.S. Goulston & Storrs director Joshua Davis has been selected as a 2022 Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment Star. The 5th edition of the Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment annual guide recognizes the most preeminent labor & employment litigation practitioners in the U.S. Goulston & Storrs director Elizabeth Levine has been selected as a 2022 Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment Star. The 5th edition of the Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment annual guide recognizes the most preeminent labor & employment litigation practitioners in the U.S. (PRNewsfoto/Goulston & Storrs PC) Joshua Davis is one of the leading employment lawyers in the country. He counsels companies and their leaders, as they face the ordinary and extraordinary daily challenges of workforce management and development, in addition to serving as lead counsel in litigation matters on their behalf. He has three decades of experience handling complicated employment matters, including deep expertise in sexual harassment and discrimination investigations, cultural assessments, and workforce training. Davis is a Fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers, a Board Member of the American Employment Law Council, a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, and serves on the Strafford Employment Law Advisory Board. Over the past year, Davis has been named the Massachusetts "Lawyer of the Year" in Employment Law Management (Best Lawyers in America 2023), an Employment Law Trailblazer (The National Law Journal, 2022), ranked among the leading employment lawyers in the country by Chambers Global and among the 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers in America (Lawdragon, 2022). He received his J.D., with honors, from the University of Chicago Law School and his B.A. with High Honors from Swarthmore College. Immediately following law school, he served as law clerk to the Hon. Stephanie K. Seymour of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Elizabeth Levine has nearly 20 years of experience working with companies on day-to-day management-side employment and operational matters, employment diligence and workforce integration in connection with mergers and acquisitions and defending organizations in employment-based litigation before state and federal courts and administrative agencies. As a trainer certified by the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, Levine also conducts workplace training on issues of harassment and discrimination prevention, sensitivity, tolerance and understanding in today's diverse workforce, and accommodation of disabled employees. Recent awards include being named to Lawdragon's 2022 list of 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers in America, a Top Employment Lawyer by Boston Magazine (2021), and an Employment Law Trailblazer by The National Law Journal (2020). She received her J.D., magna cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School. Benchmark Litigation is considered the definitive guide to the leading litigation law firms and lawyers around the world. Research is conducted through extensive interviews with litigators, dispute resolution specialists, and their clients to identify the leading litigators and firms. The publication examines recent cases and asks litigators to provide their professional opinions on peers and practitioners within their jurisdiction or practice area. About Goulston & Storrs Collaboration is not just a pillar of our strategy; it is the key to our competitive advantage and approach to clients, community, and each other. At Goulston & Storrs, we practice law with excellence and integrity. We are a place where mutual respect and collaboration drive open discussion, transparency, creativity and optimal results for our clients. We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace where sophisticated business is conducted with genuine camaraderie. To learn more about us, visit www.goulstonstorrs.com. Contact: Leaura Levine Amy Blumenthal Goulston & Storrs PC Blumenthal & Associates PR (617) 574-0530 (617) 879-1511 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Goulston & Storrs PC DENVER, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Gravity Haus , the Colorado-based social club for the modern adventurer, has acquired a fifth property (the fourth hotel location in Colorado) with the purchase of The Ptarmigan Inn and will expand its membership offering in Steamboat Springs , CO. Located steps from the base of Steamboat Ski Area and the Steamboat Gondola, just 35 minutes from the Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) and three hours from Denver, the new outpost in Ski Town, U.S.A. expands the member benefits offered to the growing community of more than 4,000 members. Gravity Haus closed on the purchase of The Ptarmigan Inn on Sept. 15. The Ptarmigan leadership team will continue leading the hotel operations. Existing reservations will be honored. Overnight stays at The Ptarmigan Inn are available for Gravity Haus members and non-members and can be booked at www.theptarmigan.com . "In less than 3 years we have grown our membership to more than 4,000 strong as we now strengthen our footprint in Colorado by adding a new membership outpost in Steamboat Springs," said Gravity Haus CEO Jim Deters. "Feedback from our members and guests made it clear that a new outpost at the base of Steamboat Ski Area would be incredibly popular for our existing membership as well as new members with IKON passes looking for maximum ease and convenience." Gravity Haus has created a key connection from the Denver-metro area to their three existing world-class resort destinations in Breckenridge , Winter Park , and Vail . In addition to the four branded Gravity Hauses, members also have access to the Cedar House Sport Hotel (to be rebranded Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe in November 2022), discounts on camper van rentals with Dave + Matt Vans , as well as partner hotel benefits in Telluride, Silverton, and Denver, Colorado; Moab, Utah; and Nosara, Costa Rica. See all member pricing and benefits here . The Plan for Gravity Haus Steamboat Gravity Haus Steamboat will become a "center of gravity" for the local and regional membership. Gravity Haus intends to invest in a larger property improvement plan during spring/summer 2023, in order to add: A signature dining experience with a mountain-casual atmosphere, bar, and a focus on local purveyors, healthy and sustainably-sourced ingredients. with a mountain-casual atmosphere, bar, and a focus on local purveyors, healthy and sustainably-sourced ingredients. Unravel Coffee // www.unravel.coffee : Unravel co-produces and imports some of the world's best coffee straight from farms in Ethiopia and roast signature taste profiles with our zero emission Bellwether roaster. // : Unravel co-produces and imports some of the world's best coffee straight from farms in and roast signature taste profiles with our zero emission Bellwether roaster. StarterHaus // www.starterhaus.com : modern co-working space, hot desks and meeting space to create and inspire alongside local and roving entrepreneurs, hold conference calls between outdoor adventures, and attend ongoing skill building and social programming. // : modern co-working space, hot desks and meeting space to create and inspire alongside local and roving entrepreneurs, hold conference calls between outdoor adventures, and attend ongoing skill building and social programming. Dryland Fitness // www.dryland.fitness : the Gravity Haus fitness community that makes every mile, summit, and moment outdoors possible through an intentional focus on expert-led functional group fitness classes, flexibility + mobility, and recovery. // : the Gravity Haus fitness community that makes every mile, summit, and moment outdoors possible through an intentional focus on expert-led functional group fitness classes, flexibility + mobility, and recovery. Gravity Haus member experiences + networking: events, and meet-ups focused on adventure, community development and personal growth. Media Assets: Property images of The Ptarmigan Inn . About Gravity Haus Gravity Haus is a social club that enables a modern active lifestylethe seamless merging of work, play and outdoor adventures. Gravity Haus members envision the planet as a playground that fuels amazing experiences, personal growth, and connection with like-minded adventurers. Gravity Haus elevates the outdoor lifestyle for a community that shares a love of nature, sustainability, and stewardship for the planet. Gravity Haus is changing how members live, work and travel sustainably with outposts in Breckenridge, Denver, Vail and Winter Park, Colorado and Truckee-Tahoe, California. Learn more at www.gravityhaus.com . SOURCE Gravity Haus LONDON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Buildots, which uses artificial intelligence and computer vision to dramatically improve efficiency in the multi-trillion dollar construction industry, has been named "Construction Software of the Year" at the prestigious London Construction Awards. By collecting data with hardhat-mounted 360 cameras and processing the data with AI, Buildots enables construction teams to make informed decisions based on accurate information, significantly improving resource efficiency, reducing costly errors and saving time. The technology is currently in use across the UK, Europe, the United States, the Middle East and Asia. In declaring Buildots "Construction Software of the Year", the judges' panel, comprised of industry experts from leading construction firms and contractor associations, noted the "high standards Buildots have in regard to industry practices and technologies". The award was announced as part of London Build, the UK's leading construction and design show. Buildots has been named one of LinkedIn's Top 15 Israeli Startups for 2021 and 2022, and was previously deemed the "One to Watch Company" at the Construction Computing Awards. The company recently completed a $60 million Series C funding round, reaching $106 million in total funding. "In continually striving to enable better building, we're honored to receive this recognition as we lead the way in using technology to finally bring greater efficiency and transparency to the global construction industry," says Roy Danon, Buildots CEO and co-founder. About Buildots Buildots is a Tel Aviv and London-based technology provider leveraging the power of AI and computer vision to modernize the construction industry. Buildots uses hardhat-mounted cameras to capture imaging of every detail of an ongoing project. The data is then analyzed using AI models to transform random visual data into highly accurate, actionable insights that are correlated with the project's designs and schedule. The platform is helping transform construction management, enhance resource efficiency, save management time, and avoid costly errors on construction projects worldwide. Media Contact Lazer Cohen [email protected] +1-347-753-8256 SOURCE Buildots DENVER, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- INDECT USA, Corp. a division of INDECT Electronics & Distribution GmbH recently announced that it has won its patent infringement case against TKH Security LLC. This verdict ended four years of legal sparring between the two companies according to Stephen Evans, INDECT USA General Manager. "For our team, it was beautiful day in San Diego, one that might not have felt any different for the seven jurors who were part of the Intellectual Property lawsuit," stated Evans. "This was a special day indeed for us as we are very proud to announce that Indect came out of this case victorious." No infringement confirmed and unfair competition practice evidence by defendant found A federal jury found INDECT does not infringe Park Assist's manual correction of detection errors in their '956 patent. In addition to the patent not being infringed upon by INDECT USA and its customers, the jury also found evidence that Park Assist was competing unfairly in the marketplace by overstating their patent and accusing INDECT of infringing the patent, among other reasons. "Having to endure this false claim for so many years, we feel vindicated by the jury's verdict. It's what we have known the whole time, there was and never will be any infringement of the '956 Patent. Park Assist simply made false claims about the scope of their intellectual property, specifically against Indect," added Evans. INDECT USA can now continue manufacture, sell and support current and future customers with its innovative parking guidance systems around the world, without the threat of further litigation. INDECT Electronics & Distribution GmbH, based in Vienna, Austria, is the world leader in manufacturing sensors for the parking guidance industry with more than one million sensors provided globally. SOURCE INDECT USA PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- IntegriChain, delivering pharma's only comprehensive data, consulting, and business process platform for market access, today announced that two of its Contracts & Pricing experts will speak at the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program Summit (MDRP), being held as a hybrid event October 12 to 14 in Chicago. The in-person portion of the conference will be held at the JW Marriott Chicago. IntegriChain is a sponsor of the MDRP Summit. Session: Multiple Best Price Strategies to Operationalize the Value-Based Purchasing Final Rule October 13, 9:50 am John Gould, Partner, Arnold & Porter Jeff Baab, VP, Operational Consulting, IntegriChain During this session, Jeff and John will cover: Interpretation of the Manufacturer Release on CMS's setting forth of these How they are entered into DB How might this complex rule be operationalized (in GP and Rebate space) How should disputes be handled? Manufacturer experience with operationalizing MBP Manufacturer or State Medicaid Program Interest? What product and pricing features are best suited to MBP approach? Digital Pharmacy Models and What Manufacturers Need to Know October 14, 11:30 am ET Rupal Patel, Executive Director, Operational Consulting, IntegriChain With the ever-evolving changes in business models by pharmacies. Many no longer operate as a standard brick and mortar retail pharmacy. In this session, Rupal will discuss a few different models that are popping up that manufacturers need to start to think through for treatment/handling within their GP calculations. About IntegriChain's Contracts & Pricing Solutions and Consulting Programs IntegriChain offers a full suite of Contracts & Pricing Solutions and Consulting programs, including: Rebate Management. IntegriChain delivers the industry's leading managed services platform for claims adjudication, processing hundreds of thousands of claims for a wide range of common fees (GPO, admin, distribution) as well as modules to support different rebate types (commercial, price protection, Medicare Part D, Coverage Gap, Medicaid, and TriCare). Claim Level Detail. IntegriChain offers an end-to-end claim level validation solution, including data management, script-level validation, analysis, and reporting for in-cycle dispute resolution of erroneous and duplicate state Medicaid claims, employing advanced data technologies including robotic process automation and extract transform load (ETL) in concert with its world-class ICyte data and analytics platform. Government Pricing. IntegriChain's Government Pricing Managed Services provides all relevant calculations required for the Medicaid, Medicare, PHS, and FSS programsexpertly designed with robust data cleansing and standardization, automated data load process, and comprehensive and auditable control reports covering all price calculation details. Chargeback Management. IntegriChain's Chargeback Management Managed Services offers a full suite of chargeback reconciliation and analytics services across GPO/IDN provider and federal contracts such as 340B and FSS. State Price Transparency Reporting Solutions IntegriChain's team of State Price Transparency experts offer a full range of services for reporting, monitoring, and compliance. IntegriChain offers a state-by-state procedure tracker that addresses when and how to report pricing to comply with each state's unique laws and regulations. The team has codified all SPTR regulations into a tool that allows manufacturers to evaluate the reporting implications of potential pricing actions. IntegriChain also delivers comprehensive materials to facilitate communication and training across the manufacturer's organization. In addition, IntegriChain registers with state portals and establishes all required reporting templates and proactively monitors State Price Transparency legislation to provide ongoing updates, reporting, and strategic support related to compliance with applicable pricing transparency laws, as states might adjust reporting timelines forward or backward when releasing new material. Roadmap to Launch Consulting Services. IntegriChain offers a proven blueprint to launch success for manufacturers launching new therapies including Commercial Roadmap to Launch, delivering Payer Pre-Deal Analysis, Pricing Committee Governance, and Pricing Compendia Support; Government Compliance Roadmap to Launch including a Government Programs Blueprint, Government Pricing Policies and Methodology Documents, Completed MDRP and 340B Agreements, and SOPs; and GTN Roadmap to Launch including Business Flow Documentation, GTN Line-Item Forecast, Channel-Payer Mix Analysis, What If Scenario Modeling, and Copay and Coverage Gap Funnel Models. ICyte Benchmarks: Channel Data Analogs. IntegriChain delivers performance metrics based on the industry's largest data set for thousands of therapy brands in the ICyte Platform. Channel Data Analogs provide a clear view of the distribution, channel mix, and pathway to the provider/patient for a competitive or analog market basket including channel/class of trade mix. About IntegriChain IntegriChain delivers pharma's only comprehensive data, consulting, and business process platform for market access departments. We provide the strategy, data, applications, and business process infrastructure for market access and therapy commercialization. More than 400 manufacturers rely on our consulting expertise and ICyte Platform to orchestrate their commercial and government payer contracting, patient services, and distribution channels. ICyte is the first and only platform that unites the financial, operational, and commercial data sets required to support therapy access in the era of specialty and precision medicine. With ICyte, pharmaceutical innovators can digitalize their market access operations, freeing up resources to focus on more data-driven decision support. IntegriChain is backed by Accel-KKR, a leading Silicon Valley technology private equity firm. We are headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, with offices in Ambler, PA; New York, NY, Raleigh, NC, and Pune, India. For more information, visit www.integrichain.com, or follow on Twitter @IntegriChain and LinkedIn. Contact IntegriChain: Jennifer Guinan, Sage Strategic Marketing, 610.410.8111, [email protected] SOURCE IntegriChain PITTSBURGH, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I care for my elderly mother and I thought there could be a better way to assist her when she rises from a seated position," said an inventor, from Renton, Wash., "so I invented the JUST RISE. My design helps to reduce the stress and pressure normally placed upon the feet, knees, shoulders and arms." The invention provides an effective way to aid individuals when standing from a seated position. The device can be employed when seated or lying upon a chair, sofa, bed, etc. As a result, it enhances safety and support and it helps to prevent falls and injuries. The invention features a practical design that is convenient and easy to use so it is ideal for individuals with various disabilities, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. The original design was submitted to the Seattle sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-FED-2358, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com. SOURCE InventHelp ATLANTA, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Trustees of each of the Invesco closed-end funds listed below today declared the following dividends. EX-DATE 10/14/2022 RECORD DATE 10/17/22 REINVEST DATE 10/31/22 PAYABLE DATE 10/31/22 Name of Closed-End Management Investment Company Ticker Monthly Dividend Amount Per Share Change From Prior Distribution Invesco Advantage Municipal Income Trust II VKI $0.04181 - Invesco Bond Fund VBF $0.05901 - Invesco California Value Municipal Income Trust VCV $0.0415 - Invesco High Income 2023 Target Term Fund IHIT $0.0350 - Invesco High Income 2024 Target Term Fund IHTA $0.0330 - Invesco Municipal Income Opportunities Trust OIA $0.02861 - Invesco Municipal Opportunity Trust VMO $0.04571 - Invesco Municipal Trust VKQ $0.04511 - Invesco Pennsylvania Value Municipal Income Trust VPV $0.04251 - Invesco Quality Municipal Income Trust IQI $0.04461 - Invesco Trust for Investment Grade Municipals VGM $0.04591 - Invesco Trust for Investment Grade New York Municipals VTN $0.0421 - Invesco Value Municipal Income Trust IIM $0.05441 - Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year will report distributions for federal income tax purposes. The Fund's annual report to shareholders will include information regarding the tax character of Fund distributions for the fiscal year. 1 A portion of this distribution is estimated to be from a return of principal rather than net income. The Section 19 notice referenced below provides more information and can be found on the Invesco website at www.invesco.com. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions in 2022 will be made after the end of the year. In order to comply with the requirements of Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, each Fund will provide its shareholders of record on the record date with a Section 19 Notice disclosing the sources of its dividend payment when a distribution includes anything other than net investment income. The Section 19 Notice is not provided for tax reporting purposes but for informational purposes only. If applicable, this Section 19 Notice information can be found on the Funds' website at www.invesco.com The amount of dividends paid by each fund may vary from time to time. Past amounts of dividends are no guarantee of future dividend payment amounts. Investing involves risk and it is possible to lose money on any investment in the funds. For additional information, shareholders of the closed end fund may call Invesco at 800-983-0903. About Invesco Ltd. Invesco Ltd. is a global independent investment management firm dedicated to delivering an investment experience that helps people get more out of life. Our distinctive investment teams deliver a comprehensive range of active, passive and alternative investment capabilities. With offices in more than 20 countries, Invesco managed $1.4 trillion in assets on behalf of clients worldwide as of June 30, 2022. For more information, visit Invesco.com. Invesco Distributors, Inc. is the US distributor for Invesco Ltd. It is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Invesco Ltd. Note: There is no assurance that a closed-end fund will achieve its investment objective. Shares are bought on the secondary market and may trade at a discount or premium to NAV. Regular brokerage commissions apply. NOT A DEPOSIT l NOT FDIC INSURED l NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY CONTACT: Jeaneen Terrio 212-278-9205 [email protected] SOURCE Invesco Ltd. WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Business of Tech , the podcast and YouTube show created by technology services expert and analyst Dave Sobel to monitor key IT industry trends, today releases data from its quarterly diversity survey, which paints a clearer picture of the people in leadership roles at over 300 IT services companies. The Quarter 3 2022 survey is the eighth report of its kind in two years, and since its launch, critical inclusion markers like race and gender have either improved nominally, remained the same, or worsened overall. The survey tracked 3,449 people across 301 companies and was conducted at the end of Quarter 3 of 2022. Leadership teams were classified as white, non-white or black, as well as male or female. Currently, 89.19% of total leadership is white and just 20.96% female. Key findings across multiple quarters include: More white leadership: the total portion of white leaders is nearly identical to last quarter (89.2%), and up 7 points compared to Quarter 3 of 2020 (82.31%). Stagnant black leadership: the percentage of black leaders in IT is the same as two years ago, coming in a 1.83%. Comparing this figure to other industries, the Fortune 1000 has seen a slight uptick in Black leadership (2.43% last quarter to 2.62% this quarter). Slow women leadership growth: The amount of women in leadership roles is barely up from last quarter (20.96% this quarter, 20.46% in Quarter 2 of 2022), with a slight improvement in two years: in Quarter 3 of 2020, 19.26% of IT leadership was women. "Companies might have the desire to do the right thing when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion, but the data doesn't yet support any authentic movement on this front," said David Sobel, the host, creator and producer of The Business of Tech Podcast. "Tech folks are particularly data-driven, so conducting this survey every quarter is critical for leaders in this sector to understand where improvement is needed and why." To see this quarter's data broken down by geography and type of organization, head to The Business of Tech online. Ongoing diversity reports will be released quarterly. The Business of Tech is celebrating its third anniversary this Fall. For more technology news with context that matters, follow the show on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also watch the video version of the show on YouTube . About The Business of Tech Podcast The Business of Tech Podcast focuses on the news you need to know in the fast-paced world of technology. Covering both the news and why it matters to you, tech veteran David Sobel gives you the resources and context you need to go deeper in your field. With each episode running only five minutes long, The Business of Tech Podcast quickly give you the critical insights, analysis, and the knowledge you need to be an effective, profitable, and relevant player in your industry. You can the Business of Tech on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts, and you can also watch the video version of the show on the MSP Radio YouTube channel. The show is created, hosted and written by David Sobel, who delivers daily from robust tech experience. Dave has been recognized as one of the top virtualization experts globally as a Microsoft MVP for Virtualization, is the author of "Virtualization: Defined. A Primer for the SMB Consultant," and has served on the executive council for Managed Services and Emerging Technologies, the Vendor Advisory Council, as founding Chair for the Mobility Community for CompTIA. A leading expert in the delivery of technology services, David brings his unique insight to The Business of Tech Podcast every week. Media Contact: Dave Sobel, [email protected] SOURCE MSP Radio THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION INCLUDES SOUGHT-AFTER B-SIDES & REMIXES LOS ANGELES, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrating the 25th anniversary of an enduring cultural touchstone, one of the best-selling music artists of all-time; the five-time GRAMMY Award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, Janet Jackson, will release a new Deluxe Edition of her sixth full-length album, The Velvet Rope, on October 7, 2022, the exact 25th revolution of the original 1997 release date. JANET JACKSON RELEASES THE VELVET ROPE: DELUXE EDITION OCTOBER 7, 2022 Tweet this Pre-order/pre-save The Velvet Rope: Deluxe Edition at https://janetjackson.lnk.to/TheVelvetRope With 10 new-to-platform bonus tracks available on streaming platforms for the first time, it includes sought-after B-sides and remixes including two rarities, "Accept Me" and "God's Stepchild." The collection also houses multiple remixeswhich were only available on CD singles prior. These include Teddy Riley's TNT Remix of "I Get Lonely" featuring BLACKstreet, the J. Dilla (Ummah Jay Dee) remix of "Got 'Til It's Gone", and Timbaland/Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott's remix of "Go Deep." Also included are club mixes of various tracks by David Morales & Frankie Knuckles, Masters at Work, Tony Moran, Jason Nevins and Tony Humphries. Pre-order/pre-save The Velvet Rope: Deluxe Edition on Virgin/UMe HERE . Remastered versions of Jackson's iconic music videos will also be available to watch on YouTube for the first-time ever in HD. In tandem with the forthcoming Deluxe Edition, remastered HD videos of tracks from The Velvet Rope, will go live on release date: "Go Deep," "I Get Lonely," "You," "Got 'Til It's Gone," and "Together Again [Deeper Remix]." See all of Janet Jackson's remastered HD music videos HERE The Velvet Rope, produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for Flyte Tyme Productions Inc. and Ms. Jackson, arrived on October 7, 1997. Janet's vulnerable and poignant writing confronted themes of female sexuality through a black woman's lens as well as domestic violence and mental health. The album had a massive global impact, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, and yielding No. 1 hits "Together Again," "I Get Lonely," and last single "Every Time" as well as seminal album cuts, "Go Deep" and "Got 'Til It's Gone" [feat. Q-Tip & Joni Mitchell], which earned a GRAMMY Award in the category of Best Music Video, Short Form. "Go Deep" reached No. 1 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs Chart, while "Got 'Til It's Gone" went Top 10 on the Dance Club Songs Chart. As one of the most acclaimed legacies in Jackson's storied history, The Velvet Rope is one of Rolling Stone magazine's coveted 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, while Los Angeles Times asserted, "Certainly, as a musician Jackson has never seemed more confident or ambitious than she does here." Check out the full Deluxe Edition track listing below and stay tuned for more news soon. Go behind The Velvet Rope again on October 7. THE VELVET ROPE: DELUXE EDITION Component 1: 1. Interlude -Twisted Elegance 2. Velvet Rope [feat. Vanessa-Mae] 3. You 4. Got 'Til It's Gone [feat. Q-Tip & Joni Mitchell] 5. Interlude - Speaker Phone 6. My Need 7. Interlude - Fasten Your Seatbelts 8. Go Deep 9. Free Xone 10. Interlude - Memory 11. Together Again 12. Interlude - Online 13. Empty 14. Interlude - Full 15. What About 16. Every Time 17. Tonight's The Night 18. I Get Lonely 19. Rope Burn 20. Anything 21. Interlude - Sad 22. Special 23. Can't Be Stopped 24. Accept Me [Bonus Track] * 25. God's Stepchild [Bonus Track] * Component 2: 1. I Get Lonely (TNT Remix Edit) with BLACKstreet * 2. Got 'Til It's Gone (Ummah Jay Dee's Revenge Mix) * 3. Go Deep (Timbaland/Missy Remix) featuring Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott * 4. Together Again (Jimmy Jam Deeper Mix) * 5. Every Time (Jam & Lewis Disco Mix) 6. I Get Lonely (Jam & Lewis Feel My Bass Mix) * 7. Got 'Til It's Gone (David Morales & Frankie Knuckles Def Club Mix) * 8. Together Again (Tony Moran 12" Club Mix) * 9. Go Deep (Masters at Work Thunder Mix) * 10. Together Again (Tony Humphries Club Mix Edit) 11. I Get Lonely (Jason vs. Janet The Club Remix) 12. Go Deep (Masters At Work Vocal Deep Disco Dub) 13. Got 'Til It's Gone (Armand Van Helden Bonus Beats) * = new to streaming SOURCE Universal Music Enterprises NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "K-12 Robotic Toolkits Market by School Level and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026" report has been added to Technavio's offerings. The K-12 robotic toolkits market size is expected to grow by USD 410.17 million from 2021 to 2026. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will accelerate at a CAGR of 18.65% during the forecast period. Technavio provides a comprehensive report summary describing the market size and forecast along with research methodology. The FREE sample report is available in PDF format Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global K-12 Robotic Toolkits Market 2022-2026 Market Dynamics Product premiumization due to technological advances is driving the global K-12 robotic toolkits market growth. The market has become more competitive over the years. The changes in customers' preferences are driving the demand for innovative products. For instance, some customers prefer K-12 robotic toolkits that can perform multiple tasks with low resources. Hence, vendors are engaging in R&D and innovation to compete in the market. The introduction of drones in K-12 robotic learning programs is a trend in the market. The popularity of drones is rising. Hence, vendors are introducing drones in K-12 robotic learning programs. For instance, RobotLAB offers Quadcopter, which is a drone that is designed to help K-12 students learn robotics. Vendor Landscape The K-12 robotic toolkits market is fragmented. Vendors are deploying growth strategies, such as offering products with different technologies and designs and differentiating themselves based on product quality and innovation, to compete in the market. They are focusing on R&D, technology, and branding to compete in the market and are procuring high-quality products. They are also focusing on brand equity to differentiate themselves from their competitors. Company Profiles The k-12 robotic toolkits market report provides complete insights on key vendors including Amtek Company Inc., ArcBotics LLC, Boxlight Corp, Digital Dream Labs, Eduscape, Evollve Inc., EZRobot Inc., India First Robotics, Innovation First International Inc., LEGO System AS, Makeblock Co. Ltd., Modular Robotics Inc., Pitsco Inc, Raspberry Pi Foundation, Robolink Inc., ROBOTIS Co. Ltd, RobotLAB Inc, Sony Group Corp, Sphero Inc., Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and Wonder Workshop Inc. Technavio's reports provide key strategic initiatives used by vendors, along with key news and the latest developments. View our FREE PDF Sample Report Now Competitive Analysis The competitive scenario provided in the k-12 robotic toolkits market report evaluates, analyzes, and positions companies based on various performance indicators. Some of the factors considered for this analysis include growth strategies, the financial performance of companies over the past few years, new product launches, product innovations, growth in market share, and investments. Market Segmentation By school level, the market has been classified into high school, middle school, and PreK-elementary school. The high school segment will contribute the largest share of the market during the forecast period. segment will contribute the largest share of the market during the forecast period. By geography, the market has been classified into North America , Europe , APAC, South America , and the Middle East and Africa . North America will have the largest share of the market during the forecast period. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a FREE PDF Sample Report Related Reports E-learning Courses Market by End-user and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The e-learning courses market share is expected to increase by USD 109.05 billion from 2021 to 2026. Self-paced E-learning Market by Product and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The self-paced E-learning market share is expected to increase by USD 7.20 billion from 2021 to 2026. K-12 Robotic Toolkits Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 18.65% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 410.17 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 17.78 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 39% Key consumer countries US, China, South Korea, Japan, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Amtek Company Inc., ArcBotics LLC, Boxlight Corp, Digital Dream Labs, Eduscape, Evollve Inc., EZRobot Inc., India First Robotics, Innovation First International Inc., LEGO System AS, Makeblock Co. Ltd., Modular Robotics Inc., Pitsco Inc, Raspberry Pi Foundation, Robolink Inc., ROBOTIS Co. Ltd, RobotLAB Inc, Sony Group Corp, Sphero Inc., Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and Wonder Workshop 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, and 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 Education Services Market 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 School level 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 between 2021 and 2026 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers Exhibit 18: Chart on 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 School level 5.1 Market segments Exhibit 24: Chart on School level - Market share 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 25: Data Table on School level - Market share 2021-2026 (%) 5.2 Comparison by School level Exhibit 26: Chart on Comparison by School level Exhibit 27: Data Table on Comparison by School level 5.3 High school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 28: Chart on High school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 29: Data Table on High school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 30: Chart on High school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 31: Data Table on High school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.4 Middle school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 32: Chart on Middle school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 33: Data Table on Middle school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 34: Chart on Middle school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 35: Data Table on Middle school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.5 PreK-elementary school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 36: Chart on PreK-elementary school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 37: Data Table on PreK-elementary school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 38: Chart on PreK-elementary school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 39: Data Table on PreK-elementary school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.6 Market opportunity by School level Exhibit 40: Market opportunity by School level ($ million) 6 Customer Landscape 6.1 Customer landscape overview Exhibit 41: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria 7 Geographic Landscape 7.1 Geographic segmentation Exhibit 42: Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 43: Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%) 7.2 Geographic comparison Exhibit 44: Chart on Geographic comparison Exhibit 45: Data Table on Geographic comparison 7.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 46: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 47: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 48: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 49: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 50: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 51: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 52: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 53: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 54: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 55: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 56: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 57: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 58: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 59: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 60: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 61: 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 62: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 63: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 64: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 65: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 66: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 67: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 68: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 69: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.9 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 70: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 71: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 72: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 73: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.10 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 74: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 75: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 76: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 77: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.11 South Korea - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 78: Chart on South Korea - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 79: Data Table on South Korea - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 80: Chart on South Korea - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 81: Data Table on South Korea - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.12 Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 82: Chart on Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 83: Data Table on Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 84: Chart on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 85: Data Table on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.13 Market opportunity by geography Exhibit 86: 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 87: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2021 and 2026 8.4 Market trends 9 Vendor Landscape 9.1 Overview 9.2 Vendor landscape Exhibit 88: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation 9.3 Landscape disruption Exhibit 89: Overview on factors of disruption 9.4 Industry risks Exhibit 90: Impact of key risks on business 10 Vendor Analysis 10.1 Vendors covered Exhibit 91: Vendors covered 10.2 Market positioning of vendors Exhibit 92: Matrix on vendor position and classification 10.3 Amtek Company Inc. Exhibit 93: Amtek Company Inc. - Overview Exhibit 94: Amtek Company Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 95: Amtek Company Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 96: Amtek Company Inc. - Segment focus 10.4 Evollve Inc. Exhibit 97: Evollve Inc. - Overview Exhibit 98: Evollve Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 99: Evollve Inc. - Key offerings 10.5 EZRobot Inc. Exhibit 100: EZRobot Inc. - Overview Exhibit 101: EZRobot Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 102: EZRobot Inc. - Key offerings 10.6 Innovation First International Inc. Exhibit 103: Innovation First International Inc. - Overview Exhibit 104: Innovation First International Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 105: Innovation First International Inc. - Key offerings 10.7 LEGO System AS Exhibit 106: LEGO System AS - Overview Exhibit 107: LEGO System AS - Product / Service Exhibit 108: LEGO System AS - Key news Exhibit 109: LEGO System AS - Key offerings 10.8 Makeblock Co. Ltd. Exhibit 110: Makeblock Co. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 111: Makeblock Co. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 112: Makeblock Co. Ltd. - Key offerings 10.9 Modular Robotics Inc. Exhibit 113: Modular Robotics Inc. - Overview Exhibit 114: Modular Robotics Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 115: Modular Robotics Inc. - Key offerings 10.10 Raspberry Pi Foundation Exhibit 116: Raspberry Pi Foundation - Overview Exhibit 117: Raspberry Pi Foundation - Product / Service Exhibit 118: Raspberry Pi Foundation - Key offerings 10.11 Sphero Inc. Exhibit 119: Sphero Inc. - Overview Exhibit 120: Sphero Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 121: Sphero Inc. - Key offerings 10.12 Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. Exhibit 122: Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 123: Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 124: Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Key offerings 11 Appendix 11.1 Scope of the report 11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist Exhibit 125: Inclusions checklist Exhibit 126: Exclusions checklist 11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 127: Currency conversion rates for US$ 11.4 Research methodology Exhibit 128: Research methodology Exhibit 129: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 130: Information sources 11.5 List of abbreviations Exhibit 131: List of abbreviations 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 School level 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 between 2021 and 2026 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers Exhibit 18: Chart on 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 School level 5.1 Market segments Exhibit 24: Chart on School level - Market share 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 25: Data Table on School level - Market share 2021-2026 (%) 5.2 Comparison by School level Exhibit 26: Chart on Comparison by School level Exhibit 27: Data Table on Comparison by School level 5.3 High school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 28: Chart on High school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 29: Data Table on High school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 30: Chart on High school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 31: Data Table on High school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.4 Middle school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 32: Chart on Middle school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 33: Data Table on Middle school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 34: Chart on Middle school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 35: Data Table on Middle school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.5 PreK-elementary school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 36: Chart on PreK-elementary school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 37: Data Table on PreK-elementary school - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 38: Chart on PreK-elementary school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 39: Data Table on PreK-elementary school - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 5.6 Market opportunity by School level Exhibit 40: Market opportunity by School level ($ million) 6 Customer Landscape 6.1 Customer landscape overview Exhibit 41: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria 7 Geographic Landscape 7.1 Geographic segmentation Exhibit 42: Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 43: Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%) 7.2 Geographic comparison Exhibit 44: Chart on Geographic comparison Exhibit 45: Data Table on Geographic comparison 7.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 46: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 47: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 48: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 49: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 50: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 51: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 52: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 53: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 54: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 55: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 56: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 57: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 58: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 59: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 60: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 61: 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 62: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 63: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 64: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 65: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 66: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 67: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 68: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 69: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.9 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 70: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 71: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 72: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 73: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.10 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 74: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 75: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 76: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 77: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.11 South Korea - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 78: Chart on South Korea - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 79: Data Table on South Korea - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 80: Chart on South Korea - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 81: Data Table on South Korea - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.12 Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 82: Chart on Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 83: Data Table on Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million) Exhibit 84: Chart on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) Exhibit 85: Data Table on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%) 7.13 Market opportunity by geography Exhibit 86: 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 87: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2021 and 2026 8.4 Market trends 9 Vendor Landscape 9.1 Overview 9.2 Vendor landscape Exhibit 88: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation 9.3 Landscape disruption Exhibit 89: Overview on factors of disruption 9.4 Industry risks Exhibit 90: Impact of key risks on business 10 Vendor Analysis 10.1 Vendors covered Exhibit 91: Vendors covered 10.2 Market positioning of vendors Exhibit 92: Matrix on vendor position and classification 10.3 Amtek Company Inc. Exhibit 93: Amtek Company Inc. - Overview Exhibit 94: Amtek Company Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 95: Amtek Company Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 96: Amtek Company Inc. - Segment focus 10.4 Evollve Inc. Exhibit 97: Evollve Inc. - Overview Exhibit 98: Evollve Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 99: Evollve Inc. - Key offerings 10.5 EZRobot Inc. Exhibit 100: EZRobot Inc. - Overview Exhibit 101: EZRobot Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 102: EZRobot Inc. - Key offerings 10.6 Innovation First International Inc. Exhibit 103: Innovation First International Inc. - Overview Exhibit 104: Innovation First International Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 105: Innovation First International Inc. - Key offerings 10.7 LEGO System AS Exhibit 106: LEGO System AS - Overview Exhibit 107: LEGO System AS - Product / Service Exhibit 108: LEGO System AS - Key news Exhibit 109: LEGO System AS - Key offerings 10.8 Makeblock Co. Ltd. Exhibit 110: Makeblock Co. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 111: Makeblock Co. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 112: Makeblock Co. Ltd. - Key offerings 10.9 Modular Robotics Inc. Exhibit 113: Modular Robotics Inc. - Overview Exhibit 114: Modular Robotics Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 115: Modular Robotics Inc. - Key offerings 10.10 Raspberry Pi Foundation Exhibit 116: Raspberry Pi Foundation - Overview Exhibit 117: Raspberry Pi Foundation - Product / Service Exhibit 118: Raspberry Pi Foundation - Key offerings 10.11 Sphero Inc. Exhibit 119: Sphero Inc. - Overview Exhibit 120: Sphero Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 121: Sphero Inc. - Key offerings 10.12 Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. Exhibit 122: Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 123: Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 124: Valiant Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Key offerings 11 Appendix 11.1 Scope of the report 11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist Exhibit 125: Inclusions checklist Exhibit 126: Exclusions checklist 11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 127: Currency conversion rates for US$ 11.4 Research methodology Exhibit 128: Research methodology Exhibit 129: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 130: Information sources 11.5 List of abbreviations Exhibit 131: 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 HOUSTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- KBR (NYSE: KBR) announced today that it has been awarded a technology contract by Tecnimont S.p.A. for OCI NV's low-carbon blue ammonia project in the United States. Under the terms of the contract, KBR will supply the technology license, basic engineering design, proprietary equipment and catalyst for the 1.1 million ton per annum blue ammonia plant. Targeting completion by 2025, the project will be designed to transition from blue to green ammonia production as green hydrogen becomes available at larger scale in the future. "We are excited to continue to build on our strong relationship with OCI NV and Maire Tecnimont to deliver our market-leading and proven ammonia technology for this energy transition project," said Doug Kelly, KBR President, Technology. "This award is a further testament to KBR's leadership in helping its clients implement effective decarbonization technologies today on a path to achieving their future ESG objectives." KBR has licensed and designed 252 grassroots ammonia plants since 1944. Around half of global licensed ammonia capacity uses KBR-designed plants because they combine lowest CAPEX and OPEX with the highest reliability. KBR has driven ammonia technology development to reduce cost, improve energy efficiency and on-stream factors to maximize client returns on investment. About KBR We deliver science, technology and engineering solutions to governments and companies around the world. KBR employs approximately 28,000 people performing diverse, complex and mission critical roles in 34 countries. KBR is proud to work with its customers across the globe to provide technology, value-added services, and long- term operations and maintenance services to ensure consistent delivery with predictable results. At KBR, We Deliver. Visit www.kbr.com Forward Looking Statement The statements in this press release that are not historical statements, including statements regarding future financial performance, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the company's control that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the significant adverse impacts on economic and market conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic and the company's ability to respond to the resulting challenges and business disruption; the recent dislocation of the global energy market; the company's ability to manage its liquidity; the outcome of and the publicity surrounding audits and investigations by domestic and foreign government agencies and legislative bodies; potential adverse proceedings by such agencies and potential adverse results and consequences from such proceedings; changes in capital spending by the company's customers; the company's ability to obtain contracts from existing and new customers and perform under those contracts; structural changes in the industries in which the company operates; escalating costs associated with and the performance of fixed-fee projects and the company's ability to control its cost under its contracts; claims negotiations and contract disputes with the company's customers; changes in the demand for or price of oil and/or natural gas; protection of intellectual property rights; compliance with environmental laws; changes in government regulations and regulatory requirements; compliance with laws related to income taxes; unsettled political conditions, war and the effects of terrorism; foreign operations and foreign exchange rates and controls; the development and installation of financial systems; the possibility of cyber and malware attacks; increased competition for employees; the ability to successfully complete and integrate acquisitions; and operations of joint ventures, including joint ventures that are not controlled by the company. The company's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, any subsequent Form 10-Qs and 8-Ks, and other U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that the company has identified that may affect its business, results of operations and financial condition. Except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason. SOURCE KBR, Inc. Throughout the Month of October, Lady M Will Donate 100% of Proceeds From Pink Eclairs in NYC and LA to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for Breast Cancer Research NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Lady M Confections, creator of the world-famous Mille Crepes, announced it will be donating 100% of proceeds from Pink Eclairs sales throughout the month of October (10/1 10/31) to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for Breast Cancer Research. Lady M's Pink Eclairs "We're proud to support Memorial Sloan Kettering's Breast Cancer Awareness research during the month of October," said Lady M CEO Ken Romaniszyn. "Our first Lady M boutique we opened was in the Upper East Side, where the majority of Memorial Sloan Kettering's locations reside, which make this initiative especially important to us. This partnership will help to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Lady M is thrilled to be a part of this charitable initiative." Lady M's Pink Eclairs ($6 each) are a classic choux pastry filled with strawberry custard cream and topped with baby pink chocolate for a delectable treat. The Pink Eclairs will be available exclusively at Lady M boutique locations in New York (Upper East Side, Bryant Park, Rockefeller, NoMad, World Trade Center, Woodbury Commons, American Dream) and Los Angeles (West 3rd in LA, Arcadia and Irvine). For more information on Lady M, please visit www.ladym.com. About Lady M: Lady M is a New York City luxury confections brand with over 50 boutiques worldwide. Created in 2001 and led by CEO Ken Romaniszyn, Lady M is the creator of the world famous Mille Crepes. Lady M marries French pastry techniques with Japanese sensibilities, resulting in delicate cakes that are a touch sweet and perfect for every occasion. All cakes are handmade and prepared fresh without food additives or preservatives. Lady M's recipes have been refined over years to provide the finest quality in taste and appearance. Indulge in a world of cakes and confections at LadyM.com. SOURCE Lady M Confections Co. BOSTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LearnLux , the leading workplace financial wellbeing company announced it has closed a $10M Series A round to democratize access to fiduciary financial planning for employees on a global scale. The round was led by Crosslink Capital with participation from existing investors as well as industry executives. The recent raise enables LearnLux to tackle the multi-billion dollar opportunity to support diverse and dispersed workforces with an unbiased financial wellbeing solution that meets every employee where they are. LearnLux is the most accessible and equitable solution, working with organizations of all sizes including Fortune 500 and multinational companies to support employees of all income levels and life stages. Financial wellbeing company LearnLux has raised $10M to support diverse and dispersed global workforces. Tweet this Financial wellbeing has become a top priority for employers to help employees make a financial plan. "It doesn't matter whether we're in a bull or bear market," said Liebman. "The pandemic and current economic volatility have exposed everyone's financial vulnerabilities which has forced employers to be more thoughtful than ever when it comes to bringing financial wellbeing to their employees and their families." LearnLux was founded by sibling duo Rebecca and Michael Liebman in 2015 and has grown into a holistic financial wellbeing solution that blends digital financial planning and total rewards tools with in-house Certified Financial Planner professionals. The program provides trusted financial planning resources for all employees, no matter their income or asset level. About LearnLux LearnLux is the leading workplace financial wellbeing provider that blends fiduciary digital planning with access to one-on-one guidance from Certified Financial Planner professionals. LearnLux's award-winning program equips employees with a financial plan to guide them through decision points like budgeting, paying down debt, electing benefits, understanding equity compensation, starting a family, buying a home, saving for retirement, and more. Advanced reporting keeps our partners in the know, and drives results like reduction in financial stress, increased productivity, reduced employee turnover, greater use of pretax products, on-time retirement, and healthcare savings. LearnLux members feel great about their money, allowing their work and wellbeing to thrive. Visit LearnLux at http://www.learnlux.com/ . SOURCE LearnLux MADRID, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lleida.net (BME: LLN) (EPA: ALLLN) (OTCQX: LLEIF) has signed a contract with the Colombian postal services worth 2.5 million euros. This is the largest contract in its history. The agreement, signed with the company 4-72, which manages Colombia's postal services, has a duration of two years. The contract equals approximately 14% of the company's turnover in 2021. The agreement, signed through Lleida.net's Colombian subsidiary, includes access to its entire catalog of electronic notification, signature, and contracting products. "Colombia continues to be one of the markets where Lleida.net is growing most strongly and steadily. I consider it a success that, in the current market situation, 4-72 has bet on us in such a clear way," explained Sisco Sapena, CEO and founder of the company. Lleida.net has been working for 4-72 since 2015. The company's name derives from the coordinates of the geographic center of Colombia: four degrees north latitude and 72 degrees west longitude. The corporation manages postal communications for 48 million Colombians. The Spanish company has three patents in Colombia, its primary market in the region. It has been operating there since 2014 and has a portfolio of more than 200 clients in the country, including Bancolombia, one of the country's leading financial institutions. Lleida.net is the European leader in the registered electronic signature, notification, and contracting industry. With more than 215 patents received from more than 64 countries internationally. Its portfolio is one of the strongest worldwide in its field. Lleida.net is listed on the OTCQX index in New York, Euronext Growth in Paris, and BME Growth in Madrid. It is present in Peru, the Dominican Republic, Chile, and Mexico, directly and through its subsidiary Indenova. SOURCE Lleida.net IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total September sales of 23,770 vehicles, a decrease of 1.1 percent compared to September 2021. Year-to-date sales totaled 215,391 vehicles; a decrease of 21.2 percent compared to the same time last year. With 25 selling days in September, compared to the same the year prior, the company posted a decrease of 1.1 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis. CPO sales totaled 4,134 vehicles in September, a decrease of 26 percent compared to September 2021. Sales Highlights Best-ever September sales of CX-30 with 4,855 vehicles sold. Mazda Canada, Inc., (MCI) reported September sales of 4,896 vehicles, a decrease of 12.9 percent compared to September last year. Year-to-date sales decreased 23.7 percent, with 40,011 vehicles sold. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported September sales of 5,405 vehicles, an increase of 222 percent compared to September last year. Year-to-date sales decreased 4.9 percent, with 31,344 vehicles sold. Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts, and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico through approximately 780 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com. Follow MNAO's social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA. Month-To-Date Year-To-Date September September YOY % % MTD September September YOY % % MTD 2022 2021 Change DSR 2022 2021 Change DSR Mazda3 1,860 2,595 (28.3) % (28.3) % 19,980 30,619 (34.7) % (35.0) % Mazda 3 Sdn 1,179 934 26.2 % 26.2 % 8438 17,812 (52.6) % (52.8) % Mazda 3 HB 681 1,661 (59.0) % (59.0) % 11542 12,807 (9.9) % (10.3) % Mazda6 0 1,032 (100.0) % (100.0) % 335 14,271 (97.7) % (97.7) % MX-5 Miata 752 824 (8.7) % (8.7) % 4,571 9,608 (52.4) % (52.6) % MX-5 346 322 7.5 % 7.5 % 1752 3,784 (53.7) % (53.9) % MXR 406 502 (19.1) % (19.1) % 2819 5,824 (51.6) % (51.8) % CX-3 - 32 - - - 5,099 - - CX-30 4,855 3,581 35.6 % 35.6 % 37387 47,474 (21.2) % (21.6) % CX-5 10,216 13,059 (21.8) % (21.8) % 115949 137,307 (15.6) % (15.9) % CX-9 3,264 2,887 13.1 % 13.1 % 23469 28,799 (18.5) % (18.9) % CX-50 2,823 0 - - 13376 0 - - MX-30 0 35 (100.0) % (100.0) % 324 35 825.7 % 821.7 % CARS 2,612 4,451 (41.3) % (41.3) % 24,886 54,498 (54.3) % (54.5) % TRUCKS 21,158 19,594 8.0 % 8.0 % 190,505 218,715 (12.9) % (13.3) % TOTAL 23,770 24,045 (1.1) % (1.1) % 215,391 273,213 (21.2) % (21.5) % *Selling Days 25 25 229 228 SOURCE Mazda North American Operations Dr. Monica Kogan enhances availability of specialized expertise for young patients JOLIET, Ill., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush (MOR) today announces an expansion of its pediatric orthopedics presence that will broaden access for patients across the Chicagoland area. Dr. Monica Kogan, a MOR physician also serving as an assistant professor and director of the Pediatric Orthopedics program at Rush University Medical Center, is now practicing across three MOR locations including Chicago, Westchester and newly added, Joliet. Dr. Kogan's added availability in Joliet continues to deliver on MOR's commitment to enhancing orthopedic treatment options for patients in the city as well as suburban Chicago. Dr. Kogan specializes in the treatment of children's broken bones and other orthopedic problems unique to pediatric patients that include trauma, birth defects, developmental dysplasia, clubfeet, genetic anomalies, neurologic dysfunction, scoliosis, and walking disorders. "Dr. Kogan offers parents a world-class option for the treatment of their children's orthopedic conditions," said Dr. Brian Cole, managing partner of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush. "I am convinced that Dr. Kogan's expertise, core values and dedication to the areas in which she serves will solidify her as a pillar of the medical communities in Joliet and Westchester, while she continues her impactful work in Chicago." In addition to receiving praise for her clinical expertise, Dr. Kogan has been consistently recognized for the active role she plays in the communities she serves and beyond. She has led two surgical mission trips to the Dominican Republic and been involved with the Perry Initiative program, mentoring female high school and medical students with interest in the world of orthopedic surgery. Also fluent in Spanish, Dr. Kogan's bilingualism allows her to connect with and treat pediatric patients from an array of backgrounds. Since joining MOR in 2006, Dr. Kogan has built upon her successful fellowship at the Primary Children's Medical Center in Salt Lake City, which is a renowned pediatric center serving five states in the inter-mountain region. Dr. Kogan is a graduate from the University of Illinois College of Medicine Chicago and completed her orthopedic surgical residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kogan at MOR locations in Joliet, Westchester or Chicago, please visit www.rushortho.com or call 877.MD.BONES. About Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush MOR is among the international leaders in musculoskeletal health and is currently ranked No. 5 in Orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report. MOR is comprised of international renowned Orthopedic and Spine surgeons who pioneer the latest advances in technology and surgical techniques to improve the lives and activity levels of patients around the world. MOR has seven full-service locations in Chicago, Joliet, Naperville, Oak Brook, Oak Park, Westchester, and Munster, IN. MOR also has eight, stand-alone physical therapy clinics in Bensenville, Geneva, Lincoln Park, Lockport, Orland Park, River Grove, Park Ridge, and Munster (Centennial Village), IN. SOURCE Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush The company will be showcasing its former US Army Grumman OV-ID/RV-1D Mohawk aircraft. WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mohawk Technologies, a disabled veteran-owned small business with the mantra of "Your Mission Our Solution", will be exhibiting at the upcoming Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Convention from October 10-11 in Washington, D.C. The company will be showcasing its former US Army Grumman OV-ID/RV-1D Mohawk aircraft, which it will be using as a research and development platform for specialized equipment, flight training and proof of concept evaluations. This will be an opportunity for attendees to learn more about Mohawk Technologies and how it will continue to contribute to the advancement of aerial research & development with an environmentally sensitive low carbon impact aircraft. Used for over 50 years in combined multinational roles, 35 of which were for the U.S Army the Grumman OV-1 Mohawk aircraft has proven performance in a variety of critical applications from light attack, observation, and reconnaissance in operating theaters from Vietnam, Korea, Middle East (Desert Storm), Israel and South America. This versatile aerial platform in subsequent use for more than 15 years under civilian control, was a go-to aircraft for the US Navy Test Pilot School, US Navy Research Laboratory, US Army at Redstone, INSCOM, Corps of Engineers and civilian agencies like National Test Pilot School, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and NASA's Wallops Flight Center. "Our Grumman OV-1D/RV-1D Mohawk aircraft are still real-world contenders for airborne research & development of specialized equipment. Mohawk Technologies is scheduled to have operational availability in the 2nd quarter of FY 2023 said a spokesperson for the company". Technical, airworthiness guidance and engineering support is being provided by the Kestrel Group, LLC of South Carolina, a disabled veteran owned small business with extensive Mohawk OV-1D expertise. The multi- role Grumman OV-1D/RV-1D Mohawk is a twin-engine turboprop, low carbon impact aircraft that can perform a wide range of missions and can be optimized for surveillance and target acquisition missions. Both aircraft versions are highly maneuverable and have short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities. They can also be equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and avionics, ideally suited for multiple types of operations. These M.T. Mohawk aircraft are currently being retrofitted with new avionics, flight instrumentation during restoration. The first aircraft are scheduled to come online in FY 2023 with the potential to expand capability and availability. For more information, visit www.mohawkops.com or visit booth #6626 at the AUSA Convention. SOURCE Mohawk Technologies LONDON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Nanosensors Market Size was valued at USD 592.4 Million in 2021. The Market is projected to grow USD 1245.6 Million by 2028 and it is Growing at a CAGR of 11.2%. Nanotechnology deals with the chemical or physical properties of matter at the nanoscale, which can be dissimilar from their bulk properties. A nanosensor is one of the outstanding examples of nanotechnology which is known as a device that is capable of carrying data and evidence regarding the behavior and characteristics at the nanoscale level to the macroscopic level of nanoparticles. Most definitions denote a detecting device with at least one of its dimensions being smaller than 100 nm. For the purpose of collecting information on the nanoscale and shifting it into data for analysis, it is broadly used in several industries. Significant characteristics and quality parameters of nanosensors can hence be developed over the case of characteristically modeled sensors with merely condensed sensing parts and/or the transducer. Get Sample of [email protected] https://brandessenceresearch.com/requestSample/PostId/1834 Nanosensors Market Competitive Analysis Some of the Key Players for Global Nanosensors Market are: Agilent Technologies, Inc. Analog Devices, Inc. Applied Nanotech Bruker Corporation Nanodevices Inc. Honeywell International Inc. Evident Technologies Kleindiek Nanotechnik GmbH Omron Corp. Lockheed Martin Corp. Texas Instruments Others Nanosensors Market Segmentation Analysis There is great application for the nanosensors in medicine. The smart pills refer to the nano-level electronic devices that are modeled and also designed like the pharmaceutical pills but also perform more sophisticated functions like imaging, sensing and the drug delivery. Previously, the nanotechnology has helped in the development of many types of smart pills like PillCam and dose sensing pills. Further, the nanomedicine approach gets used in the skin cancer treatment which allows an efficient delivery of drugs and the other therapy treatments to the skin cancer which also enables the efficient delivery of the drugs and other treatments of specific tumor sites and the target cells with the lower side effects. By Type: Optical Sensor Electrochemical Sensor Electromechanical Sensor Others By Application: Electronics Chemical Manufacturing Aerospace & Defence Energy Healthcare Others Get Methodology @ https://brandessenceresearch.com/requestMethodology/PostId/1834 On Special Requirement Nanosensors Market Report is also available for below region: North America U.S, Canada Europe Germany , France , U.K., Italy , Spain , Sweden , Netherland, Turkey , Switzerland , Belgium , Rest of Europe Asia-Pacific South Korea , Japan , China , India , Australia , Philippines , Singapore , Malaysia , Thailand , Indonesia , Rest Of APAC Latin America Mexico , Colombia , Brazil , Argentina , Peru , Rest of Latin America Middle East and Africa Saudi Arabia , UAE, Egypt , South Africa , Rest Of MEA Nanosensors Market: Key Drivers The upscale in the nanotechnology supported by the many initiatives of the government are driving the growth of the market. There are initiatives like the nanotechnology signatures which help in the growth of the market. These also define the vision for the acceleration of nanoscale technology for addressing the needs and exploit opportunities from the research through commercialization. Furthermore, the increase in the trend of the miniaturization and use of such products across the different industries are driving the growth of the market. Though, the complexity in the manufacturing of nanosensors as well as the reluctance of some of the users or using the nanosensors due to a traditional approach is hindering the growth of this market. The advanced technologies are always driving the new opportunities and the further development. The constant research and development on newer technologies and the different nanosensors types is going to increase the growth of the market. The biggest factor that drives the nanosensors market in the region of North America is the growth in the demand for the nanosensors in homeland and military security as they get used for the detection of the biotoxins and radiations. North America has been accounting for the largest share among the regions and is going to account for the same in the coming years too. It has also benefited many military operations by helping a development of the advanced gear of warfare like the lighter vehicles and self-repair tents. With the increase in the budget of defense in the region, specifically in the United States, there is a demand for the nanomaterials and components which is going to increase. Nanosensors Market: Key Trends The Nanosensor market is going to see a continuous amount of growth in the coming few years. This is because of the sensors applications becoming popular in the industry with a varied number of applications globally for the monitoring and detection in the process parameters. The Nanosensors act in the same way as they differentiate with only a factor that there is a use of nanomaterial in the manufacturing. There is extreme innovation being witnessed in this market and there is development in the field of nanotechnology like the invention of the carbon nanotubes which have a major impact on the area. It has also been a major foundation for the different directions of the development. This helps the market see many Nanosensors applications all over the world. Recent Developments SkyWater and NanoDx Partnered to Develop and Produce Nanoscale Sensors for Rapid COVID-19 Testing and Other Vital Diagnostics On October 6th, 2021; the trusted technology realization partner, SkyWater Technology, and a privately held medical device company named NanoDx, Inc. developed a breakthrough, point-of-care diagnostic solutions had announced the technology transfer for qualification and manufacture ramp of nanoscale sensors to improve and enlarge precise, fast testing for numerous indications, counting Covid-19, sepsis, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke. NanoDx and IBM to Develop Nanoscale Sensors for Rapid Diagnostic Testing On July 15th, 2021; NanoDx contracted a licensing agreement with IBM Research to use the latter's metal-oxide semi-conductive compatible nanoscale sensors to increase and prolong specific, speedy testing for numerous indications. Onconano Medicine Landed $50M in Series B to Spur Nanosensor that 'Lights Up' Cancer On June 22nd, 2021; Onconano Medicine Inc. upraised about USD 50 million in series B financing to hasten the drive of its technology intended to diagnose and treat cancer with great specificity. The biotech company's nanosensor works by reacting to low pH and lightens cancer like a lightbulb, distinguishing cancerous tissues from healthy tissue. Purchase Copy of Report @ https://brandessenceresearch.com/Checkout?report_id=1834 Related Reports for Sensor Industry: i-Factor: Live Market intelligence platform I-Factor is our guaranteed seal to keep our clients ahead of the competition, always. This knowledge platform delivers real-time updates on key economic indicators, competitive landscape, changing demand, trends, customized regional insights, and more. The platform visualizes key data points to help make decision making agile, trustworthy, and holistic. Register for free trial here at https://brandessenceresearch.com/i-factor/login/userRegister Brandessence Market Research & Consulting Pvt ltd. Brandessence Market Research publishes market research reports & business insights produced by highly qualified and experienced industry analysts. Our research reports are available in a wide range of industry verticals including aviation, food & beverage, healthcare, ICT, Construction, Chemicals and lot more. Brand Essence Market Research report will be best fit for senior executives, business development managers, marketing managers, consultants, CEOs, CIOs, COOs, and Directors, governments, agencies, organizations and Ph.D. Students. We have a delivery center in Pune, India and our sales office is in London. Follow Us: Linkedin Contact: Mr. Vishal Sawant Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Corporate Sales: +44-2038074155 Asia Office: +917447409162 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1392316/BEMR_Logo.jpg SOURCE Brandessence Market Research and Consulting Private Limited WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) today announced the speakers and agenda for NASAA's next "Senior Issues and Diminished Capacity Committee Presents" webcast. The webcast, scheduled for November 3, from 2:30 4:00 p.m. ET, is complimentary and open to the public. "This webcast continues the important discussion of strategies and tactics aimed at combatting the financial exploitation of older and at-risk investors. This is such an important topic for regulators and the securities industry. I want to thank Rich Szuch and the members of NASAA's Senior Issues and Diminished Capacity Committee for organizing the program," said NASAA President Andrew Hartnett. This webcast features a discussion on combating the financial exploitation of older and at-risk investors. Tweet this The webcast will address new scams and threats, how multidisciplinary teams work at the local, state, and federal levels to prevent fraud, and new training and education initiatives. There will be a detailed discussion about how the states, the SEC, FINRA, and APS agencies work together, and separately, to stop investor harm. The webcast will begin with opening remarks from President Hartnett. Richard Szuch, NASAA's Senior Issues and Diminished Capacity Committee Chair and the New Jersey Bureau of Securities' Enforcement Chief, will host the program. Webcast panelists are: Suzanne McGovern , Senior Advisor, Securities and Exchange Commission. , Senior Advisor, Securities and Exchange Commission. Amanda Senn , NASAA Enforcement Section Co-Chair, Chief Deputy Director and General Counsel, Alabama Securities Commission. , NASAA Enforcement Section Co-Chair, Chief Deputy Director and General Counsel, Alabama Securities Commission. Joseph Snyder , former President, National Adult Protective Services Association (retired). , former President, National Adult Protective Services Association (retired). Jennifer Spoeri , Executive Director, National Adult Protective Services Association. , Executive Director, National Adult Protective Services Association. Jeanette Wingler , Associate General Counsel, FINRA, and , Associate General Counsel, FINRA, and Jim Wrona , Vice President and Associate General Counsel, FINRA. To register for the free webcast, visit the NASAA website. About NASAA: Organized in 1919, the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) is the oldest international organization devoted to investor protection. NASAA is a voluntary association whose membership consists of securities regulators in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the 13 provincial and territorial securities regulators in Canada, and the securities regulator in Mexico. For more information, visit www.nasaa.org. SOURCE North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) More than 1,200 exhibitors and nearly 18,500 attendees enjoyed this year's show during its second year in Philadelphia PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Informa Markets' Natural Products Expo East , part of the New Hope Network family of brands, safely and successfully hosted the industry September 28 October 1 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the second year in a row. The event, which is in its 37th occurrence, drew more than 1,200 exhibitors, including 425 first time exhibitors, and nearly 18,500 registered attendees to reconnect with colleagues, learn from experts and see first-hand the latest innovations coming soon to retail stores. Informa Markets' Natural Products Expo East, part of the New Hope Network family of brands, safely and successfully hosted the industry September 28 October 1 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the second year in a row. The event drew more than 1,200 exhibitors, including 425 first time exhibitors, and nearly 18,500 registered attendees. The expo floor was filled with brands that highlighted the latest and greatest innovation from the food and wellness industry. The show also served as a valuable meeting place, drawing retailers from stores such as Kroger, Jimbo's, Cambridge Naturals, Target, Rainbow Blossom, Walmart, and many more, who were looking for everything from natural and organic foods to supplements and home products that are good for the planet and the consumers. "As a newbie, I was blown away by the exhibitors at this year's Expo East show," said first-time attendee Kathy Settles from Dorothy Lane Market. "Now more than ever, our industry is being challenged to find and create products that meet our customers' needs for achieving better health. The show's theme of 'Spark Your Passion' was perfect because we had this amazing opportunity to connect with the people behind the products and experience their passion first-hand." The show also continued with its prestigious NEXTY Awards, representing the most progressive, innovative, inspiring and trustworthy products, and a gallery of this year's winners can be viewed online here. The winner of the Pitch Slam was Gear Hugger, whose eco-friendly formula is plant-based and non-toxic. First Time Carbon Neutral Certification Pursuit At this year's event, extensive efforts were made in waste diversion, social and local community impact, and the event footprint at large, as Informa Markets' New Hope Network announced its first carbon neutral certification pursuit at this year's show. This is the result of decades of reducing emissions where possible, and then partnering with Climate Impact Partners to identify well-reputed offset projects. "Sustainability is intrinsic to natural products," said Lacey Gautier, VP Events, Natural Products Expo. "We've implemented practices to reduce our environmental impacts for many years, and we look forward to continuing to enhance our efforts and partnerships at future shows. Now, more than ever, it is critical that we are uniting as an industry to accelerate our efforts and collectively create positive change." Social Sustainability Accessibility, diversity, inclusion and community were also at the forefront when planning for Natural Products Expo East. New Hope Network will activate on its Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) values and again partnered with (included), a membership collective for BIPOC executives in the CPG space, as well as Project Potluck, to continue to advance diversity and inclusion throughout the event. Highlights from these efforts included conference session collaborations, complimentary Natural Products Expo Virtual (NPEV) memberships for (included) members, networking events and onsite exhibit space and tabletop features. Project Potluck, whose mission is to help People of Color build successful companies and careers in CPG, was also an integral partner to the show, advancing both organizations' goals to increase access, visibility and representation and develop the next generation of CPG leaders. "The exposure is amazing at Expo East," said Zahira Marmar, Founder of Hrbvor Herbal Teas, an (included) member. "For a small brand like us, just starting out, it's time for us to expand in this region to be more accessible to spread the love of herbal tea! This is an amazing outlet to be discovered and discover partners within the CPG industry." Industry members who were unable to travel to Philadelphia were invited to participate through Natural Products Expo Virtual Program. Through this virtual program, attendees participated in the keynote presentations, set-up meetings with exhibitors, and can view on-demand content after the event. Follow @NatProdExpo on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Visit @Natural Products Expo on LinkedIn to join in on ongoing conversations. Natural Products Expo is a business-to-business trade show and is not open to the public. About New Hope Network New Hope Network is at the forefront of the healthy lifestyle products industry. With solutions for the complete supply chain from manufacturers, retailers/distributors, service providers and ingredient suppliers, the network offers a robust portfolio of content, events, data, research and consultative services. Through all its actions, New Hope Network aims to cultivate a prosperous high-integrity CPG and retail ecosystem that creates health, joy and justice for all people while regenerating the planet. For more information visit www.newhope.com. About Informa Markets Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. We provide marketplace participants around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, targeted digital services and actionable data solutions. We connect buyers and sellers across more than a dozen global verticals, including Pharmaceuticals, Food, Medical Technology and Infrastructure. As the world's leading market-making company, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com. SOURCE New Hope Network NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Neptune Retail Solutions (NRS) announced today an impressive 9% brand sales lifts for its Adult Beverage Omnichannel Network. This is close to double the average sales lift of non-Adult Beverage brands (4.6% average lift). This success is a result of focused organizational investment in category-specific insights, comprehensive state-by-state regulatory knowledge and concentrated category experts dedicated solely to Adult Beverage. Through its Adult Beverage Omnichannel Network, NRS distributes incentives and brand messaging for over 625 category brand partners across its digital and in-store network covering over 45,000 of North America's biggest retailers including Kroger, Albertsons, SEG and Walgreens. "No other competitor can offer a similar combination of in-store and digital activation opportunities that drive tangible results like NRS," says Bill Redmond, CEO of NRS. "While we have been delivering strong results via our exclusive in-store brand equity media rights with top-tier retailers for years, we also have the ability to secure nationally budgeted category offers as part of our Adult Bev Incentive Network. This combination makes us the only multi-retailer omnichannel network that can drive this level of brand growth." NRS' Adult Beverage Incentive Network delivers over 4.4 million brand offers and rebates with available savings of over $1,600 per shopper each month through load-to-card POS system integrations with retail partners Albertsons and Southeastern Grocers (SEG). Additionally, NRS' owned and operated Cash Back app, Checkout 51, has been seeing a 44% year over year increase in new members over the past 6 months. In contrast to other rewards programs that require a paid subscription to earn cash back and do not include all categories, shoppers can download the free Checkout 51 app to earn Cash Back on Adult Beverage (and other category) purchases made at Walmart or any other retailer providing them with ultimate flexibility to save when, where and how they want. In addition, through Checkout 51, Adult Beverage brands can gain valuable purchase-level insights on their shoppers such as basket analysis, lifestyle, demographics, trip type and retail/channel/market purchase locations. To learn more about Neptune Retail Solutions' Adult Beverage Omnichannel Network, please contact [email protected] ABOUT Neptune Retail Solutions: NRS is a leading omnichannel retail marketing company in the U.S. and Canada that delivers profitable growth for retailers and brands. The NRS platform is powered by exclusive in-store marketing rights in North America's largest grocery and drugstores, including Albertsons, Kroger, SEG, Ahold, Loblaws, Walgreens and CVS (and more), as well as by exclusive deterministic first-party shopper data generated from the company's owned and operated Cash Back app, Checkout 51, which captures deterministic first-party shopping data via receipt scans from key retail locations across North America, including Walmart, Target, Costco, Sam's Club and the retailers noted above. Related Links: www.neptuneretailsolutions.com SOURCE Neptune Retail Solutions PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NetDiligence, a leading provider of cyber risk readiness and response services, announced today it has published its twelfth annual Cyber Claims Study , a study of actual losses for data breaches and other cyber-related events covered by leading cyber insurance carriers. Sponsoring the study are RSM , Experian , Guidewire , and The Beckage Firm . NetDiligence This year's report features analysis of almost 7,500 claims from events that occurred during 20172021, including over 1,000 claims analyzed from incidents that occurred in 2021. The data from these claims has been aggregated in over 20 ways, including crisis, legal, business interruption, recovery, and total incident costs; the nature of the event, type of data exposed, business sectors affected, revenue size of claimants, and causes of loss, especially the growing impact of ransomware. Findings are presented separately for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and large companies. In this report, the average revenue for SMEs was approximately $88M, while the average revenue for large companies was $13.5B. In this year's study, ransomware was once again the number one cause of loss for SMEs and the costs associated with a ransomware event were again higher the 5-year average ransom climbed to $262K; the 5-year average cost of a ransomware incident rose to $455K. The average incident cost for large companies (across all types of incidents) was $12.8M. "For the third year in a row, ransomware is the leading cause of loss for SMEs," said Mark Greisiger, President of NetDiligence. "Furthermore, the overall business interruption cost of a ransomware incident has significantly grown over that time period. The average costs for a ransomware incident in 2021 were almost double the 5-year average costs." "It is a crucial time for SMEs to protect themselves by implementing preventative measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)," Greisiger adds. "Equally important, we have learned from the cyber insurance community that all sectors must be vigilant about putting an actionable incident response plan in place with hotlines to the insurance carriers' preferred Breach Coach and other incident response experts. Ransomware, along with business email compromise (BEC), will likely remain the primary cyber threats. However, we have seen first-hand that when organizations have the tools and planning in place to respond quickly and efficiently, they can minimize both the cost and the disruption to their businesses." Study findings will be presented at the NetDiligence Cyber Risk Summit in Santa Monica, California on Tuesday, October 11, 2022. More in-depth coverage of findings, along with front-line insights from sponsors, can be found inside your cyber insurer's eRiskHub portal . Study findings as well as the state of the cyber insurance market will be discussed further in two upcoming webinars from NetDiligence. Those interested in attending can register for the webinars using the links below: Webinar 1: Cyber Claims Study 2022: A Review of Findings and Front-Line Insights Date: October 27, 2022 at 11:00am EST at Click here to register Webinar 2: Cyber Claims Study 2022: State of the Market Date: November 10, 2022 at 11:00am EST at Click here to register Click here to download the 2022 Cyber Claims Study from NetDiligence. Media Contact : Steve Kopanski Director of Marketing, NetDiligence 484.883.7523 [email protected] About NetDiligence NetDiligence specializes in Cyber Risk Readiness & Response services. With over 20 years of experience in cyber, NetDiligence is an award-winning provider of innovative cyber risk management software and services to the insurance industry, including QuietAudit Cyber Risk Assessments , the eRiskHub cyber risk management portal, their authorized Breach Coach program, and Breach Plan Connect , a securely hosted solution designed to help senior managers plan and execute their organization's response to a cyber incident, and which also includes a free mobile app for convenient access and alternative means of communication if company systems are compromised. NetDiligence publishes an annual Cyber Claims Study and traditionally hosts Cyber Risk Conferences in Philadelphia, Santa Monica, Toronto, Florida, London, and Bermuda. For more information, visit Netdiligence.com. About RSM RSM's purpose is to deliver the power of being understood to our clients, colleagues and communities through world-class audit, tax and consulting services focused on middle market businesses. The clients we serve are the engine of global commerce and economic growth, and we are focused on developing leading professionals and services to meet their evolving needs in today's ever-changing business environment. RSM US LLP is the U.S. member of RSM International, a global network of independent audit, tax and consulting firms with 48,000 people across 120 countries. For more information, visit rsmus.com , like us on Facebook , follow us on Twitter and/or connect with us on LinkedIn . About Experian Crisis Solutions When every minute counts, count on Experian Crisis Solutions. Powered by the nation's largest credit reporting agency, Experian Crisis Solutions creates better outcomes and unmatched value by delivering expertise, ease, and guaranteed speed when our partners need it the most. With over 15 years of experience, Experian Crisis Solutions has successfully serviced some of the largest and highest-profile breaches in history. Our turnkey solutions include Experian Reserved Response, data breach response, crisis response management, and proven credit and identity protection products. To learn more, visit www.experian.com/databreach or email [email protected]. About Guidewire Guidewire is the platform P&C insurers trust to engage, innovate, and grow efficiently. We combine digital, core, analytics, and AI to deliver our platform as a cloud service. More than 400 insurers, from new ventures to the largest and most complex in the world, run on Guidewire. For more information, contact us a [email protected]. About The Beckage Firm The Beckage Firm is a women-owned law firm that focuses on technology, data security and privacy, incident response, litigation, and regulatory inquiries. The Beckage Firm attorneys and team counsel clients on matters pertaining to data security and privacy compliance, government investigations, litigation and class action defense, incident response, technology, and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Beckage Firm's headquarters are in New York. Learn more at TheBeckageFirm.com. SOURCE NetDiligence New research from the academic journal, Biology, highlights the role of words in describing human-shark interactions. NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A new study published this week in the journal Biology has found an increase in the use of the phrase "shark bite" in reporting by The New York Times about shark "attacks." This information is being released by the author through Chris Pepin-Neff Consulting. A new study on shark attack media coverage shows increasing use of the phrase "shark bite." Tweet this New Study on Shark Attack Media Coverage Shows Increasing use of the Phrase "Shark Bite" The study entitled "Shark Bite Reporting and The New York Times" was conducted by the University of Sydney Senior Lecturer Chris Pepin-Neff, PhD, who looked at 10 years of articles that cover human-shark interactions (n=36). Chris Pepin-Neff notes, "sometimes rare but terrible and tragic fatal shark bites occur." He added, "The data collected show that 32-39% of all reported shark 'attacks' have no injury. This may constitute a game-changer for how the public thinks about sharks and how the media reports on shark 'attacks.' The findings of The New York Times illustrate that a change is happening, and the public supports this change." This research is important because there are direct connections between public attitudes toward shark bites and support for shark conservation. The type of language The New York Times uses when it reports on shark "attacks" is important for three reasons: The more people think sharks intentionally "attack" people, the less they support shark conservation. Shark "attack" is harming sharks. 32-39% of reported shark "attacks" have no injury. Shark "attack" is misinforming the public. Surveys show that about 66% of the public thinks "shark attack" as a phrase is too sensational. Shark "attack" is being rejected by the public. Among the most important findings are that the state of California has changed its reporting language and now reports shark "attacks" as "shark incidents." The latest analysis of The New York Times suggests that there has indeed been a shift in their reporting style since about 2018. A comparison of the number of articles that include shark "attack" and shark "bite" mentions between 2012-2021 shows that from 2012-2017 there was a clear dominance of the phrase "shark attack", but parity began to emerge in 2018 with increased use of "shark bite." The result is a more layered narrative about human-shark interactions and less of a one-dimensional movie-monster storyline. Because when we allow for a different (more scientifically accurate) story to emerge, the shape of human-shark relations really evolves. For instance, there has also been a marked increase in the use of shark "sightings," shark "incidents," and shark "encounters" since 2020. In conclusion, The New York Times and other media outlets should continue to be examined for the words they use to describe the very different types of human-shark interactions. And on a personal note, I would emphasize that sometimes rare but terrible and tragic fatal shark bites occur. Nothing in this research or study is meant to take away from the real-life trauma, fear, and death that a shark can cause. This is an attempt to address the use of language to more accurately reflect shark behaviour. Chris Pepin-Neff, PhD, is the author of the book FLAWS: Shark Bites and Emotional Public Policymaking from Routledge (2019). Media contact: Chris Pepin-Neff +61 448668779 [email protected] SOURCE Dr. Christopher Pepin-Neff NICB President and CEO David Glawe and Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly Will Discuss Ways to Solidify and Foster Investigative Efforts MINEOLA, N.Y., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the insurance industry's association dedicated to predicting, preventing, and prosecuting insurance crime, is strengthening its longstanding relationship with the Nassau County District Attorney's Office. NICB President and CEO David Glawe and Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly will meet on Tuesday, October 4 to discuss their partnership and future collaborations as they work to investigate and prosecute offenders. During the meeting on October 4 in Mineola, Glawe, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tim Slater, Senior Vice President and General Counsel Pat Martin, and other NICB leadership will meet with Donnelly, Chief Assistant District Attorney, Monica Hickey-Martin, Executive Assistant District Attorney, Rick Whalen, and Bureau Chief, Revenue, Auto, Insurance, Labor Crime, Maureen McCormack. As crime around the U.S. continues to increase, including the highest vehicle theft numbers since 2008, staggering catalytic converter thefts, and fraud exceeding $300 billion annually nationwide, New York is following the increasing trend line. NICB and the Nassau County DA continue to work together to battle the ever-growing crime trends seen in New York. Tweet this "NICB is grateful for our partnership with the Nassau County District Attorney's Office," said NICB President and CEO David Glawe. "After an investigation leaves our hands, we look to the District Attorney to prosecute these criminals in New York." "NICB's fraud and theft investigators are on the ground, nation-wide, helping law enforcement investigate incidents of fraud and supporting prosecutors building criminal cases," said DA Donnelly. "I look forward to further strengthening our relationship with NICB to continue to fight fraud and crime in Nassau County." NICB and the Nassau County District Attorney are looking forward to continuing their valued partnership as they battle the ever-growing crime trends seen in New York. They will continue to work together on crime prevention, find more ways to raise awareness, and prosecuting criminals. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, call the NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB. For additional information, visit NICB's website, www.NICB.org. REPORT FRAUD: Anyone with information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle theft can report it anonymously by calling toll-free 800.TEL.NICB (800.835.6422) or submitting a form on our website. ABOUT THE NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU: Headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill., the NICB is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime through Intelligence, Analytics, and Operations; Education and Crime Prevention; and Strategy, Policy, and Advocacy. The NICB is supported by more than 1,200 property and casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations. NICB member companies wrote over $582 billion in insurance premiums in 2021, or more than 82% of the nation's property-casualty insurance. That includes more than 96% of the nation's personal auto insurance. To learn more, visit www.nicb.org. SOURCE National Insurance Crime Bureau CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Old Republic Title has acquired the operating assets of Houston-based Veritas Title Partners, L.P. (Veritas Title), as of October 1, 2022. The acquisition adds to Old Republic Title's existing network of direct operations that includes more than 275 branch and subsidiary office locations nationwide. "Veritas Title is one of the premier local title agents in the Houston area and adding their group of experienced title professionals to our Houston Division will enhance Old Republic Title's existing operations," states Carolyn Monroe, President, Old Republic Title. "Veritas Title has built a stellar reputation with Michael Knudsen and Sandra Paige at the helm, and we are delighted to welcome their employees to the Old Republic family. We have long valued their commitment to providing the best possible service to their residential and commercial customers and Old Republic Title policyholders, and we look forward to helping them leverage our national network of operations, underwriting expertise and financial strength." Knudsen, Chief Financial Officer and one of the founding partners of Veritas Title, adds, "We are proud to join forces with Old Republic Title. Our customers will continue to enjoy the same great service they've come to expect, while benefiting from technology resources that come with the backing of such a financially strong and well-respected national underwriter." About Old Republic Chicago-based Old Republic International Corporation is one of the nation's 50 largest shareholder-owned insurance businesses. It is a member of the Fortune 500 listing of America's largest companies. The Company is organized as an insurance holding company whose subsidiaries actively market, underwrite, and provide risk management services for a wide variety of coverages mostly in the general and title insurance fields. Old Republic's general insurance business ranks among the nation's 50 largest, while its title insurance operations are the third largest in its industry. For Old Republic's latest news releases and other corporate documents: Please visit us at www.oldrepublic.com Alternatively, please write or call: Investor Relations Old Republic International Corporation 307 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 346-8100 At Old Republic: At Financial Relations Board: Craig R. Smiddy, President and CEO Analysts/Investors: Joe Calabrese 212/827-3772 SOURCE Old Republic International Corporation MISSION, Kan., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- (Family Features) Upgrading your home design is an opportunity to tap into new color schemes. Knowing what shades are trendy and how different hues can work together for a cohesive design is an important step in creating an attractive design aesthetic. Photo courtesy of Valspar While you might turn to family or friends for inspiration for your next DIY project, another resource for collecting concepts and options to upgrade your space is the internet. Consider the Valspar Color-verse, which allows visitors to explore colors in a unique way and offers paint color inspiration and decor trends they can envision within their own homes. After experiencing the Valspar 2023 Colors of the Year firsthand by painting walls and art from the collection to see the 3D virtual house come to life, you can find the perfect paint shade for your space. "Through the Color-verse, visitors can experience the 12 Colors of the Year in a realistic virtual home," said Gus Morales, vice president of brand marketing for CBG Sherwin-Williams. "Aside from exploring the Colors of the Year, the home is an engaging space for visitors to create art, play games and order paint chips to see how their top color picks look and feel in their homes." Color Trends to Consider Many of this year's popular nature-inspired designs are all about finding comfort, embracing a flexible lifestyle, rediscovering joy and leaning into the growing DIY movement. The most trend-worthy, forward-thinking and livable colors reflect specific facets or emotions of life so you can update your well-used spaces with thoughtful colors that evoke positive energy and lasting change. Comfort and Contentment: If your goal is to create a space that envelopes you in a sense of comfort, consider a white with a yellow undertone that makes a space cozy like a soft blanket, like Cozy White from Valspar. Complement the softness with a muted clay that brings in brown undertones that suggest gentle contentment. Calming Restoration: Tap into the calming tones of nature with a hazy green that has duality, which brings in both the calm and liveliness of the great outdoors. Another option is a deep midnight blue used as an elegant calming shade to restore mind, body and home. Healthful, Mindful Living: Create an uplifting space where your wellness is a priority. Evoke a greater sense of health consciousness with a light blue that has a dose of softness used as a fresh neutral with uplifting qualities of a modern pastel, like Valspar's Rising Tide. Reinforce the benefits of mindful living with a cool gray that is balanced by the warmth of the yellow undertone, a natural hue like a cotton muslin cloth. Connections and Joy: Establish spaces where you can celebrate relationships with others, the world around you and happiness in your being. Consider hues like a white softened by a violet undertone, a harmonious shade promoted by digital connectivity. Evoke joy with a dependable classic tan that features a yellow undertone suggesting new life with uplifting qualities. Natural Balance: Bringing hints of the outdoors into a well-loved living space creates a soothing ambiance. Consider a warm neutral brown tone inspired by the shades found in nature or a cooled down blue that strikes a beautiful balance between cool and warm shades in your design. Inspirational Thought: A work-from-home or crafting space needs color to inspire great thinking. Try a faded natural terracotta that sparks individuality and warmth or a deep blackened olive, an on-trend neutral that embodies charm and sophistication. Explore the tool and find more colorful ideas at Valspar.com. Michael French [email protected] 1-888-824-3337 editors.familyfeatures.com About Family Features Editorial Syndicate A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com. SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate From ransomware-for-hire to smishing attacks, OnPoint provides guidance on protecting against the newest cybersecurity threats. PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OnPoint Community Credit Union today released its 2022 "The OnPoint Guide to Personal Cybersecurity" eBook to help consumers and businesses protect themselves amidst a fast-evolving cybercrime landscape. In 2021, ransomware attacks doubled, and in the first half of 2022, malware scams jumped 11%. OnPoint updates the free eBook every October to coincide with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and help keep the community informed of the latest online threats. From emerging cybercrime business models to a surge in smishing and attacks on small businesses, hackers are continually adapting their tactics to take advantage of vulnerabilities. From ransomware-for-hire to smishing attacks, OnPoint provides guidance on protecting against the newest cybersecurity threats. "Financial security and personal data security go hand in hand, and both require a commitment to ongoing learning and education," said Damian Laviolette, Chief Information Security Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. "With everything from phones, cars, drones and home systems connected on the web, cybercrime is only going to keep growingit is not going away. As cybercriminals evolve their modes of attack, we'll continue to share best practices and resources so people can stay on top of trends and understand how to protect their identities and their bank accounts." The latest trends in online fraud include: Ransomware as a Service (RaaS): A play on the Subscription as a Service or SaaS business model, RaaS providers market themselves on the dark web, offering their ransomware services and technology to clients in exchange for cryptocurrency. The scale of services ranges from advice and assistance to round-the-clock support that includes negotiating with the victim. While RaaS makes it easier for more bad actors to enter the market, the methods of attack remain the same. Cybercriminals access systems via malware infection or exploitation of a vulnerability. A play on the Subscription as a Service or SaaS business model, RaaS providers market themselves on the dark web, offering their ransomware services and technology to clients in exchange for cryptocurrency. The scale of services ranges from advice and assistance to round-the-clock support that includes negotiating with the victim. While RaaS makes it easier for more bad actors to enter the market, the methods of attack remain the same. Cybercriminals access systems via malware infection or exploitation of a vulnerability. Smishing surge: This summer, the FCC issued a warning about a rise in smishing, a type of social engineering attack that uses SMS texting. Designed to read like a formal notification from a business, smishing texts operate under the same premise as email phishing scams with a link pointing you to an attacker-controlled server. The smisher may even use your name and location to address you directly and strengthen the validity of the message. This summer, the FCC issued a warning about a rise in smishing, a type of social engineering attack that uses SMS texting. Designed to read like a formal notification from a business, smishing texts operate under the same premise as email phishing scams with a link pointing you to an attacker-controlled server. The smisher may even use your name and location to address you directly and strengthen the validity of the message. Small businesses beware: According to the FBI's Internet Crime report, the cost of cybercrimes against the small business community reached $2.4 billion last year. And a U.S. Small Business Administration survey found 88% of small business owners felt their businesses were vulnerable to online attacks. While large enterprises have built robust security teams and protocols, small businesses tend to lack the security infrastructure needed in the era of cybercrime, making them an attractive target for hackers. Top 5 Tips for Cybersecurity: Forget the password. Remember the passphrase . A password typically contains about 10 characters, blending letters, numbers and symbols. However, passwords are relatively easy to crack by hackers. That's why passphrases are becoming the new industry standard. A passphrase is longer than a password, can contain spaces between words, and should be easy for you to remember but hard for a computer to crack. Consider song lyrics, a quotation or anything memorable to you like "My favorite food is Hawaiian [email protected]," mixing in symbols and numbers in place of some letters. Even the most proficient password cracking tools break down at about 10 characters, so remember the longer your passphrase is, the harder it will be for fraudsters to hack. A password typically contains about 10 characters, blending letters, numbers and symbols. However, passwords are relatively easy to crack by hackers. That's why passphrases are becoming the new industry standard. A passphrase is longer than a password, can contain spaces between words, and should be easy for you to remember but hard for a computer to crack. Consider song lyrics, a quotation or anything memorable to you like "My favorite food is Hawaiian [email protected]," mixing in symbols and numbers in place of some letters. Even the most proficient password cracking tools break down at about 10 characters, so remember the longer your passphrase is, the harder it will be for fraudsters to hack. Back up your data. Backing up data is an absolute must for small business owners. A ransomware attack will seize up your system and lock you out until you pay the hackers. The average length of business downtime due to ransomware attacks is 20 days. That's enough time to shut down a small business. In addition to security protocols and threat detection, make sure you have a consistent and reliable way to back up your files with encryption in a system separate from your day-to-day operations. Backing up data is an absolute must for small business owners. A ransomware attack will seize up your system and lock you out until you pay the hackers. The average length of business downtime due to ransomware attacks is 20 days. That's enough time to shut down a small business. In addition to security protocols and threat detection, make sure you have a consistent and reliable way to back up your files with encryption in a system separate from your day-to-day operations. Verify sender before clicking any link. Double check the sender's address and domain name, and don't simply rely on the display name. You can hover over a link to see if the URL looks legitimate or has common tricks like a zero in place of the letter "o" or an "s" added to the end of a word like Onpoints.com. Be extra wary of any offer or notification that has poor grammar or typos, comes out of the blue or sounds too good to be true. Double check the sender's address and domain name, and don't simply rely on the display name. You can hover over a link to see if the URL looks legitimate or has common tricks like a zero in place of the letter "o" or an "s" added to the end of a word like Onpoints.com. Be extra wary of any offer or notification that has poor grammar or typos, comes out of the blue or sounds too good to be true. Stop and ask for help. So, you've clicked the link. What now? First, stop using the device and disconnect from the internet to stop the spread of malware. If your device is related to your job, reach out to your IT department by phone. If you've entered sensitive information, call your financial institution's hotline (on the back of your credit or debit card) to report the incident, consider putting a lock on your credit records and set up a fraud alert. For breaches on your personal device, back up your data using an external device like a USB and then scan your device for malware. Lastly, change your passwords across all your accounts. When in doubt, seek out a professional IT expert for help. So, you've clicked the link. What now? First, stop using the device and disconnect from the internet to stop the spread of malware. If your device is related to your job, reach out to your IT department by phone. If you've entered sensitive information, call your financial institution's hotline (on the back of your credit or debit card) to report the incident, consider putting a lock on your credit records and set up a fraud alert. For breaches on your personal device, back up your data using an external device like a USB and then scan your device for malware. Lastly, change your passwords across all your accounts. When in doubt, seek out a professional IT expert for help. Teach your kids. You might be aware of smishing, but are your kids? Laviolette says smishing attacks can be successful when you let a kid borrow your phone to play a game. When the text comes through, they may start tapping the screen to remove the distraction and unknowingly compromise the system. If your kids are using electronic devices of any kind, even for limited periods of time, make sure you've educated them about the risks. Cybercrime comes in many forms and requires vigilance across all channels. To learn even more ways to protect yourself, your family or your business, download The OnPoint Guide to Cybersecurity eBook or talk with a representative at your nearest OnPoint branch. ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 489,000 members and with assets of $9.3 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler, and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932. SOURCE OnPoint Community Credit Union BOSTON, October 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- More than five hundred of the country's preservation experts, professionals, and community leaders come together on October 13-14 for the first time ever at the two-day Historic New England Summit. Leading Voices at the Summit Catalytic voices from around the country will explore critical, transformative issues in building more livable, resilient communities in the 21st century, including: Catherine Allgor , Massachusetts Historical Society , Massachusetts Historical Society Deborah Berke , Deborah Berke Partners , Deborah Berke Partners Luke Bronin , Mayor of Hartford , Mayor of Ed Carr , Clark University , Barnaby Evans , Waterfire , Waterfire Michelle Finamore , Fashion and Design Curator , Fashion and Design Curator Francoise Hamlin, Brown University Brandon Haw , Brandon Haw Architecture , Brandon Haw Architecture Elizabeth Hitchcock , Orbit Group , Orbit Group Eric Howeler, Howeler and Yoon Kate Lear , Ballet Hispanico , Ballet Hispanico Uli Lorimer , Native Plant Trust , Native Plant Trust Patricia O'Donnell , Heritage Landscapes , Heritage Landscapes Byron Rushing , Roxbury Historical Society , Roxbury Historical Society Candelaria Silva-Collins , George B. Henderson Foundation , George B. Henderson Foundation Carl Skelton , Gotham Innovation Greenhouse , Gotham Innovation Greenhouse Nader Tehrani , NADAAA , NADAAA Sarah Turner , North Bennet Street School Major Cultural Urban Adaptive Reuse Concept to be Unveiled at Summit As part of Historic New England's long-term community building initiatives, the organization will unveil a major urban adaptive reuse concept at the Summit, Vin Cipolla, Historic New England President and CEO, announced today. "We know that preservation works. By integrating the past with the present and informing the future by creating better places to live and work, we can advance our cities and towns. In the 21st century, historic preservation can lead in reimagining our communities to deliver new stories, experiences and opportunities and take on even more public-facing and civically engaged purposes," said Cipolla. "Our Summit is ambitious, both in convening leaders drawn from an exceptionally broad cultural preservation spectrum, and in programming the two days with a diverse and collaborative group of forward-looking speakers who will share ideas and experiences that encourage new and transformative thinking." Internationally Acclaimed Pianist Melvin Chen to Perform at Summit Finale The Summit concludes with the lively panel discussion New England's Tradition of Summer Festivals focusing on how the region's arts festivals transcend the stage and bridge cultures, classes, and generations. Panelists include award-winning actor James Naughton, Anne-Marie Soulliere (cultural philanthropy and Norfolk Chamber Music Festival leader), Christopher Serkin (Marlboro Music Festival), and Jenny Gersten (Williamstown Theatre Festival). The Summit finale will be a special performance by internationally acclaimed pianist and Director of the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival Melvin Chen, who will perform Dvorak's Piano Trio in E Minor, Op. 90. This final cultural section of the Summit, including the performance, is free and open to the public with advance registration. Awards and Grants Recognizing Exceptional Preservation Work to be Presented Five prestigious awards and grants recognizing exceptional preservation work across the region will be presented during the Summit, with the inaugural Historic New England Leadership Award announced at the event: The Historic New England Preservation Leadership Award The Historic New England Book Prize The Historic New England Prize for Collecting Works on Paper The Herbert and Louise Whitney Fund Community Preservation Grants The Edward F. Gerber Urban Preservation Grant Summit Information The Summit is being held at historic Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Massachusetts, and offered to attendees around the globe via livestream. Summit Partners The Historic New England Summit is supported by this exceptional group of corporate, philanthropic, and cultural partners committed to the future of preservation: Christie's, ART Architects / Jacob D. Albert, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Bonhams Skinner, Brandon Haw Architecture, CI Eaton Private Wealth, Connecticut Landmarks, Deborah Berke Partners, Edward F. Gerber, Howeler + Yoon Architecture, King Manor, NADAAA, National Trust for Scotland Foundation USA, Old Sturbridge Village, Julie A. Porter, Revelation, South End Historical Society, Dr. Edward G. Tiedemann Jr., VENU, Wellington Management, and the Worcester Art Museum. Partnerships are still available. About Historic New England Historic New England, founded as the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities in 1910, is the largest and most comprehensive independent preservation organization in the U.S., and welcomes the public to 38 exceptional museums and landscapes, including several coastal farms. The organization operates a major collections and archives center in Haverhill, Mass., and has the world's largest collection of New England artifacts, comprising more than 123,000 decorative arts and objects and 1.5 million archival documents including photographs, architectural drawings, manuscripts, and ephemera. Engaging education programs for youths, adults, and preservation professionals, and award-winning exhibitions and publications are offered in person and virtually. Its Preservation Easement program is a national leader and protects 119 privately owned historic properties throughout the region. For Further Information: Susanna Crampton, [email protected], 617-994-5955 Betsy Vorce, [email protected], 917-287-3122 SOURCE Historic New England SEATTLE, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PENELOPE and the Beauty Bar, a premier spa servicing Seattle for over ten years, is celebrating its first anniversary of the PENELOPE MEDISPA division today and introducing new state-of-the-art treatments. Currently, PENELOPE and the Beauty Bar's MEDISPA offers advanced Forma radio frequency facial toning, microneedling with Morpheus8, Diolaze laser hair removal, Lumecca Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL), injectables and fillers, PRP treatments, B-12 shots, and Endospheres Therapy. Three new MediSpa treatments are being added to the current menu this fall. RF toning, which utilizes Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) which helps refine, restore, and improve the look and strength of muscles in the abdomen. FormaV, a comfortable and non-invasive intervaginal treatment that helps to address a variety of women's wellness concerns including improving blood circulation, muscle pain relief, and muscle relaxation. Lastly, VTone will be added to the menu. VTone is a gentle, FDA-cleared technology that is designed to rehabilitate weak pelvic floor muscles for the treatment of stress and incontinence. RF Toning is available now and the remaining treatments will be available in November. PENELOPE MEDISPA is pre-booking for those appointments now. Seattle's PENELOPE and the Beauty Bar Celebrates First Anniversary of MediSpa Division, Introduces New MediSpa Treatments Tweet this In addition to MEDISPA treatments, PENELOPE and the Beauty Bar offers a robust spa menu of highly sought-after services, including Biologique Recherche and MBR hyper-customized facials, microcurrent treatments, body treatments and wraps, sugaring hair removal, hair services, massages, waterless manicures, DazzleDry services, and more. PENELOPE and the Beauty Bar is located in the historic Fairmont Olympic Hotel at 411 University Street, Seattle, WA 98101. For more information on PENELOPE and the Beauty Bar and PENELOPE MEDISPA, please visit www.penelopeandthebeautybar.com. Press Contact: Sherri Copanzzi SLC Public Relations [email protected] SOURCE Penelope and the Beauty Bar The partnership focuses on empowering emerging creators from underrepresented and marginalized communities to reflect a diversity of perspectives NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Voice, the leading digital art marketplace, officially announces the artist collection for their latest NFT Residency program, in partnership with PhotoVogue, is now live. The program marks Conde Nast's PhotoVogue in their inaugural entrance into Web3 and focuses on emerging photographers from around the world. The Residency program and collection is an incredible opportunity to amplify the storytelling power of photography and empower diverse artists globally, nurturing their creativity in the digital space. The NFT Residency was a one-month virtual experience where Voice helped PhotoVogue's diverse portfolio of photographers learn how to successfully enter the world of Web3 through digital workshops, mentorship, and additional resources. "The NFT space is built on the foundation of transparency, authenticity, inclusivity and equality which are at the core of what we do at Voice," said Salah Zalatimo, CEO of Voice. "We are thrilled to help the photography arm of Vogue Magazine expand their horizons into the NFT space." The residency focused on the overarching theme of equity and justice. Art produced covers complex topics like the long-term effects of the pandemic on children, the difficulty of living in the midst of a war zone, the consequences of a recent major oil spill, how an identity can be denied and erased from representation, the fluidity and abstract nature of identity and territory, and more. "Every day we hear someone saying that photography is dying. Well, I'm convinced that instead, photography is very much alive, and although it is acquiring new functions and meaning, its power and magic will never cease to exist, said Alessia Glaviano, Head of Global PhotoVogue. "NFTs and blockchain potentially present a whole new world for all this magic to unfold and for the photographers to express themselves." This is the latest NFT Residency Program from Voice following the success of their first programs which included notable names in the art world such as Azu Nwagbogu, Kimberly Drew, Chad Knight, Myriam Ben Salah, Misan Harriman, Alexander Gilkes, and a diverse group of more than 40 creatives from around the world. The PhotoVogue Residency collection is available for purchase with credit card on Voice.com. New art will be dropping throughout the months of October and November. About Voice Voice is a digital art marketplace for emerging artists. The easy-to-use platform is built on blockchain and allows digital art sales through environmentally sustainable practices. For more information, visit www.voice.com . About PhotoVogue PhotoVogue curates a pool of incredible image makers from around the world to create an international database of the most interesting and diverse voices in contemporary photography. Our mission has always been and will continue to be to champion talent, reach into historically excluded communities, improve visual literacy and shape a more just, ethical and inclusive visual world. Run by Alessia Glaviano, the program connects artists, community and commerce through Conde Nast's global creative networks. PhotoVogue runs an annual festival in Milan. The first conscious fashion photography festival dedicated to the shared ground between ethics and aesthetics. The PhotoVogue Festival is a unique, one-of-a-kind event. It brings together our community since 2016, touching upon meaningful contemporary issues, furthering the conversation around the promotion of creativity and diversity in image making. Learn more at www.vogue.com/photovogue . SOURCE Voice NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Uber Technologies, Inc. ("Uber" or the "Company") (NYSE: UBER) 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-04688, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Uber common stock between May 31, 2019 and July 8, 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 Uber common stock during the Class Period, you have until October 17, 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] Uber develops and operates proprietary technology applications in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The Company connects consumers with providers of ride services, and connects riders and other consumers with restaurants, grocers, and other stores with delivery service providers for meal preparation, grocery, and other delivery services. Uber has long been plagued by scandal. As the Company's Senior Vice President of Marketing and Public Affairs recently stated: "There has been no shortage of reporting on Uber's mistakes prior to 2017. Thousands of stories have been published, multiple books have been writtenthere's even been a TV series." These "mistakes" ranged from allegations of Uber executives knowingly concealing incidents of violence and sexual assault by its drivers, operating illegally in various jurisdictions, and utilizing software to evade authorities and block their access to the Company's databases. Following years of negative publicity, Uber made changes to its top management, purportedly reformed its corporate culture, and touted itself as a new company that had atoned for its prior compliance and cultural issues. However, unbeknownst to investors, the Company and its top management had still not transparently divulged and accounted for the full scope of the Company's prior misconduct. The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding Uber's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Uber had defective disclosure controls and procedures; (ii) Uber concealed and/or downplayed the full scope and severity of its prior misconduct, including, inter alia, the extent to which it secretly lobbied government officials and politicians to bypass legal and regulatory requirements, as well as knowingly risked the safety of Uber drivers, to fuel the Company's global growth; (iii) as a result, Uber's present global footprint and market share is in significant part the byproduct of previously undisclosed, unsustainable, and illegal business practices; (iv) all the foregoing, once revealed, was likely to negatively impact Uber's reputation, as well as subject the Company to a heightened risk of governmental and regulatory scrutiny and enforcement action; and (v) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On Sunday, July 10, 2022, news reports emerged regarding a cache of 124,000 internal Uber records, dubbed the "Uber Files" by media outlets, spanning from 2013 to 2017, that were leaked to The Guardian and subsequently shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and other news outlets. These files revealed, among other things, how Uber secretly met with various government officials and politicians to skirt laws and regulations around the world, as well as risked Uber drivers' safety, to advance the Company's growth, and how all the foregoing conduct was known to, and in fact encouraged by, the Company's top management. On this news, Uber's stock price fell $1.15 per share, or 5.15%, to close at $21.19 per share on July 11, 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 LAPID BILL PUSHES FOR THE CREATION OF A NATIONAL FILM ARCHIVE, ENCOURAGES MAINTAINING AND PRESERVING FILIPINO FILMS PINUNO Senator Manuel "Lito" Lapid has filed Senate Bill No. 1352 which recognizes the importance of preserving Filipino films, by establishing the National Film Archives of the Philippines (NFAP), a national film archive that follows internationally-accepted standards, in charge of collecting, archiving, conservation, preservation, management, restoration and storage of Filipino films that upholds the nation's historical, cultural, and artistic legacy and heritage. Under the proposed measure, Lapid expressed that it is imperative that the State undertake initiatives that will promote the growth and development of the local film industry, conserve and promote the nation's historical and cultural heritage and legacy of Filipino cinema. "Para sa isang bansang may mahaba at kapuri-puring kasaysayan ng paglikha ng pelikula, na katatapos lamang magdiwang ng isang siglo ng pelikulang Pilipino, nararapat lamang na ang pamahalaan ay magtatag ng isang institusyon na mamamahala sa isang pasilidad na may kadalubhasaan at malalim at tunay na malasakit at pagmamahal sa pelikulang Pilipino. Ito ay pagkilala sa kahalagahan ng pelikula bilang tagapangalaga ng kultura at kasaysayan at pagsisiguro na ito ay maipapamalas sa mga susunod na henerasyon," Lapid said. The Act, which shall be known as the "National Film Archives of the Philippines Act of 2022," shall apply to all Filipino films ranging from motion pictures to cinematic masterpieces, documentary, news reels, silent films, avant-garde works, significant amateur footage, television shows to sound recordings, and studio productions to independent, orphan and even experimental films produced here and abroad. According to SB No. 1352, the NFAP shall conduct a national study of the film preservation problems facing the nation, and to prepare a national preservation plan to address the problems posed by the study. It shall also establish a National Film Registry, the database on basic information of motion pictures, cinematic masterpieces, documentary, news reels, silent films, avant-garde works, significant amateur footage, television shows to sound recordings, and studio productions to independent and even experimental films produced here and abroad. Furthermore, the NFAP's creation pushes to replace the Philippine Film Archive (PFA) under the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), organized under Republic Act No. 9167.### NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The power tools accessories market in UK is forecasted to grow by USD 29.76 million, accelerating at a CAGR of 3.82% between 2020 and 2025. Technavio segments the market by end-user (professional and consumer) and type (drill bits, screwdriver bits, router bits, and others). The report provides a comprehensive analysis of recent developments, new product launches, major revenue-generating segments, and market behavior across geographies. Key points covered in the power tools accessories market study: Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Power Tools Accessories Market in UK 2021-2025 Market estimates and forecast 2021-2025 Key drivers, trends, and challenges impacting market growth Segment-wise, region-wise, and country-wide analysis Analysis of market share by vendors Key product launches and regulatory climate Post-COVID-19 impact on the market landscape. Download PDF Report Sample Technavio categorizes the power tools accessories market in UK as a part of the global electrical components and equipment market within the global electrical equipment market. The parent market, the global electrical components, and the equipment market cover the companies engaged in the manufacturing of electrical cables and wires, electrical components, and electrical equipment. The parent market is driven by the growing adoption of automation in the manufacturing process and the increasing number of smart grid projects. The market is primarily driven by the growing demand for power tools for DIY projects. The rising penetration of social media has encouraged many people to involve in DIY projects to demonstrate their creative skills. In addition, the growing number of home improvement stores and the increasing availability of power tools and accessories have further fueled consumer interest in DIY projects. This growing interest in consumers is encouraging vendors in the market to introduce a wide range of power tools and power tool accessories, which is driving the growth of the market. The full report provides information on other drivers, trends, and challenges that are impacting the grow of the market. Request a Sample PDF Report Professional segment to generate maximum revenue in power tools accessories market and is leading end-user segment in the power tools accessories market in UK. The increasing demand for power tools from the automotive and construction industries is driving the growth of the professional end-user segment. Explore intelligence tailored to your business needs. Identify major revenue-generating segments, regions, and key countries in the power tools accessories market. Request Sample Report Now The power tools accessories market in UK is fragmented. Top vendors hold a significant share of the market. The rest of the market share is held by other China-based and private-label brands. Private-label brands also offer highly customized and technologically advanced power tools at lower prices than those offered by international vendors. The competition in this market is expected to intensify further in the future, with increased product extensions and technological innovations. In addition, the growing sales and distribution networks of several hardware and home improvement retailers and mass merchandisers are encouraging retailers to develop their private-label brands in the power tools accessories category. This is expected to further intensify the competition level in the market during the forecast period. Some of the key players in the power tools accessories market in UK include: Caterpillar Inc. Festool GmbH Hilti Corp. Koki Holdings Co. Ltd. KYOCERA Corp. Makita USA Inc. Inc. MilwaUKee Electric Tool Corp. Robert Bosch GmbH Snap-on Inc. Stanley Black and Decker Inc. Didn't find what you are looking for? Our analysts can help you customize this report based on your business requirements. The industry experts at Technavio will work directly with you to understand your needs and provide you with customized data in a short time. Speak to our Analyst Now Related Reports: Power Tools Accessories Market In UK Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2020 Forecast period 2021-2025 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 3.82% Market growth 2021-2025 USD 29.76 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 2.27 Regional analysis UK Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Caterpillar Inc., Festool GmbH, Hilti Corp., Koki Holdings Co. Ltd., KYOCERA Corp., Makita USA Inc., Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp., Robert Bosch GmbH, Snap-on Inc., and Stanley Black and Decker 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, and 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. Table of Contents: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market ecosystem Value chain analysis Market Sizing Market definition Market segment analysis Market size 2020 Market outlook: Forecast for 2020 - 2025 Five Forces Analysis Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition Market Segmentation by End-user Market segments Comparison by End-user Professional - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Consumer - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Market opportunity by End-user Market Segmentation by Type Market segments Comparison by Type Drill bits - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Screwdriver bits - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Router bits - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Others - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Market opportunity by Type Customer landscape Market drivers Market challenges Market trends Vendor Landscape Overview Landscape disruption Vendor Analysis Vendors covered Market positioning of vendors Caterpillar Inc. Festool GmbH Hilti Corp. Koki Holdings Co. Ltd. KYOCERA Corp. Makita USA Inc. Inc. Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. Robert Bosch GmbH Snap-on Inc. Stanley Black and Decker Inc. Appendix Scope of the report Currency conversion rates for US$ Research methodology 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 provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The global radiology information systems market size is expected to reach USD 1.9 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 10.1% from 2022 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. This market growth is driven by the factors such as the increasing incidences of chronic diseases and the adoption of advanced technologies in healthcare facilities. The growing usage of digital healthcare infrastructure, which helps collect and manage information generated by hospitals, clinics, and institutes, has enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of their services. Key Industry Insights & Findings from the report: Based on deployment mode, the web-based segment held the largest revenue share in 2021, due to workflow enhancement features such as scheduling, document imaging, automated insurance eligibility functions, and billing. Based on product, the integrated RIS segment accounted for the largest market share in the year 2021. It offers data analysis with the help of Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) for the development of IT service models. Hospitals, emergency healthcare service providers, and physicians are a few RIS end-users. Hospitals majorly prefer radiology solutions for patient scheduling, and appointments, along with tracking patient history and records. North America led the radiology information systems market in 2021 in terms of revenue attributed to the technological advancements and presence of major market players. In July 2021 , Kestral, an Australia RIS company, Aceso Health, a healthcare solution provider in New Zealand , and Sorsix Technologies entered into a multi-year collaboration. Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will combine Aceso's Snap scan Patient Online Booking System with Kestral's Karisma RIS. Read 100 page market research report, "Radiology Information Systems Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product, By Deployment Mode (Web-based, On-premise, Cloud-based), By End Use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030", published by Grand View Research. Radiology Information Systems Market Growth & Trends The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into radiology information system (RIS) offers lucrative growth opportunities for the market. This will result in smoother workflows, better patient care, and consistent support for radiologists. It also helps radiologists to deliver a coordinated ecosystem experience to make faster, more accurate, and more consistent diagnoses. Additionally, government initiatives to increase the adoption of RIS are expected to boost market growth. An increasing number of medical imaging tests for various diseases is anticipated to drive the growth of the market. As per Harvard Health, around 80 million CT scans were performed in the U.S. annually. Furthermore, the number of radiology labs and increasing installations of MRI and CT scans have created the demand for RIS in hospitals. COVID-19 slowed the growth of the market. This was mainly due to the decline in the number of non-urgent medical imaging procedures during the first wave. However, patient volumes recovered strongly in the second half. Many government organizations recommended radio-imaging tests for the detection of black fungus among COVID-19 patients. This positively impacted growth of the market in 2021. Radiology Information Systems Market Segmentation Grand View Research has segmented the global radiology information systems market based on the deployment mode, product, and end-use. RIS Deployment Mode Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2030) Web-based On-premise Cloud-based RIS Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2030) Integrated RIS Standalone RIS RIS End-Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2030) Hospitals & Clinics Outpatient Department (OPD) Others RIS Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2016 - 2030) North America U.S. Canada Europe U.K. Germany France Italy Spain Asia Pacific China Japan India Australia South Korea Latin America Brazil Mexico Argentina Middle East & Africa & South Africa Saudi Arabia List of Key Players in Radiology Information Systems (RIS) Market Oracle General Electric Company IBM Koninklijke Philips N.V. Siemens Healthineers AG All scripts Healthcare, LLC Epic Systems Corporation McKesson Corporation MedInformatix, Inc. eRAD Pro Medicus, Ltd. Check out more related studies published by Grand View Research: Radiology As A Service Market - The global radiology as a service market size is expected to reach USD 4.7 billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 20.3% over the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing number of medical images and low availability of radiologists around the globe are the factors propelling the market growth over forecast years. According to the report published by the National Health Service (NHS) England , nearly 42.7 million medical images were reported in 2018 compared to 42.1 million in 2017, which indicates an increase of 1.4% yearly. The radiology as a service model provides quality diagnostic imaging services through teleradiology, technology management, cloud-based imaging, and consulting services via trained professionals. radiology as a service offers 24/7 service support to patients and radiologists across the globe. Increasing healthcare expenditure and the growing adoption of advanced cloud-based platforms are anticipated to accelerate the market growth over the forecast years. The global radiology as a service market size is expected to reach by 2028, registering a CAGR of 20.3% over the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing number of medical images and low availability of radiologists around the globe are the factors propelling the market growth over forecast years. According to the report published by the National Health Service (NHS) , nearly 42.7 million medical images were reported in 2018 compared to 42.1 million in 2017, which indicates an increase of 1.4% yearly. The radiology as a service model provides quality diagnostic imaging services through teleradiology, technology management, cloud-based imaging, and consulting services via trained professionals. radiology as a service offers 24/7 service support to patients and radiologists across the globe. Increasing healthcare expenditure and the growing adoption of advanced cloud-based platforms are anticipated to accelerate the market growth over the forecast years. Teleradiology Services Market - The global teleradiology services market size is expected to reach USD 25.9 billion by 2025, registering a CAGR of 2.3% over the forecast period, according to a new report published by Grand View Research, Inc. Shortage of radiologists in several countries has increased the adoption of teleradiology services in recent years. According to the 2017 workforce report by the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR), U.K., the National Health Service (NHS) spent USD 150 Million for outsourcing patient radiology scans due to shortage of radiologists. Moreover, several factors, such as need for after working hour coverage, lower reporting cost, and short Turn-Around-Time (TAT) have led to an increase in outsourcing of teleradiology services. - The global teleradiology services market size is expected to reach by 2025, registering a CAGR of 2.3% over the forecast period, according to a new report published by Grand View Research, Inc. Shortage of radiologists in several countries has increased the adoption of teleradiology services in recent years. According to the 2017 workforce report by the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR), U.K., the National Health Service (NHS) spent for outsourcing patient radiology scans due to shortage of radiologists. Moreover, several factors, such as need for after working hour coverage, lower reporting cost, and short Turn-Around-Time (TAT) have led to an increase in outsourcing of teleradiology services. Teleradiology Software Market - The global teleradiology software market size is expected to reach USD 2.4 billion by 2025, expanding at a CAGR of 8.1% over the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Shortage of radiologists in countries such as U.S. and India is one of the prominent growth drivers. Browse through Grand View Research's Healthcare IT 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. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc. Phone: 1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com Grand View Compass | Astra ESG Solutions Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/661327/Grand_View_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Tuya Inc. (NYSE: TUYA) pursuant and/or traceable to the registration statement and related prospectus (collectively, the "Registration Statement") issued in connection with Tuya's March 2021 initial public offering (the "IPO") of the important October 11, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased Tuya securities pursuant and/or traceable to the Registration Statement 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 Tuya class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=7007 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 October 11, 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, the IPO Registration Statement featured false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) a material portion of Tuya's China-based customers were engaged in the widespread and systematic manipulation of reviews and product offerings in violation of Amazon.com's terms of use; (2) prior to the IPO, a consumer investigation and data breach had exposed an illicit fake review scheme being perpetrated by many of Tuya's clients, among others, which included, among other things, the exposure of 13 million records of organized fake review scams linked to over 200,000 Amazon account profiles; (3) as a result, there was a substantial risk that a material portion of Tuya's significant customers would be barred from using Amazon.com's platform, negatively impacting Tuya's business, revenue, earnings, and prospects; and (4) as such, the IPO's Registration Statement's representations regarding Tuya's historical financial and operational metrics and purported market opportunities and expected growth did not accurately reflect the actual business, operations, financial results, and trajectory of Tuya at the time of the IPO. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Tuya class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=7007 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. Marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month, country's second oldest South Asian gender-justice organization plans to develop evidence-based, culturally relevant models to break cycles of intergenerational trauma NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation awarded Sakhi for South Asian Women (Sakhi), the second oldest South Asian gender-justice organization in the United States, a $3 Million grant spread over the next 10 years to deepen multigenerational healing to South Asian families experiencing gender-based violence. The largest gift of its kind to any South Asian American social service organization, this multi-year grant will help Sakhi establish the South Asian Safe Families Initiative, which will focus on supporting South Asian families through a culturally rooted approach. "The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation has enabled Sakhi for South Asian Women to pursue transformative work with families impacted by violence through the South Asian Safe Families Initiative," said Kavita Mehra, Executive Director of Sakhi for South Asian Women. "This bold initiative will take the conversation of healing from a siloed, individual experience to one that will bring families closer together and the restorative ripple effects of this investment will be felt for generations," Mehra added. Historically, not enough resources have been made available to the community. Research on mental health and gender-based violence is rarely adapted for the community, and South Asian-specific stressors such as immigration, socio-economic disparities, racism, and caste are seldom taken into account. Sakhi and The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation believe that without considering these unique experiences, South Asian families risk transferring that trauma from one generation to the next and repeating the cycles of violence. "Building upon the more than 30 years of experience Sakhi has developed in helping heal South Asian survivors affected by gender-based violence, we saw an opportunity to expand services to the children and family members also profoundly affected by the trauma of violence," said Anita Bhatia, MHA, Executive Director of The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation. "Gender-based violence has an indelible impact on families from one generation to the next so it is important to not only find ways to break the cycle but to recognize that such healing takes time," Bhatia added. The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation's 10 year grant will allow Sakhi to develop culturally valid interventions, and provide therapy that can strengthen the parent-child bond and interrupt this cycle. Expanding on Sakhi's previous mental health interventions made possible by an earlier 2019 grant by The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation The South Asian Safe Families Initiative will address a crucial need in the community. Investing in the mental health of South Asian children and families recovering from violence are vital for the well-being of the entire community. At the start of this Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation's $3M grant to Sakhi for South Asian Women renews their long standing commitment to addressing mental health in South Asian communities and can help radically transform models of healing for survivors of trauma. About Sakhi for South Asian Women Founded in 1989, Sakhi for South Asian Women (Sakhi) exists to represent the South Asian diaspora in a survivor-centered movement for gender justice. As the second oldest gender-justice organization serving the community, we honor the collective and inherent power of all survivors of violence. Sakhi is committed to serving survivors through a combination of efforts includingbut not limited todirect services, advocacy and organizing, technical assistance, and community outreach. The Executive Director of Sakhi for South Asian Women, Kavita Mehra, is available for interviews about how to support South Asian survivors of domestic violence. Sakhi for South Asian Women, P.O. Box 1333. Church Street Station New York NY 10008-1333 www.sakhi.org Contact: Tan Hayat, Media Liaison [email protected] (347) 415-3951 (cell) SOURCE Sakhi for South Asian Women With success at the Lee Branch location, Scenthound quickly expands to new market MOUNTAIN BROOK, Ala., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Scenthound, the new dog grooming concept that is taking Birmingham by storm, is opening a new location in Mountain Brook! This is the second of at least ten stores that business partners Jacob Lee and Brett Basik plan to open between the Birmingham and Nashville metro areas. Scenthound handles your dogs basic hygiene and grooming needs, so you dont have to worry about it "We have been absolutely thrilled by the response from the greater Birmingham community," said Jacob. "Since opening in February, we now have over 700 members of our Monthly Care Club and have had over 4,500 dog visits. This means more dogs get the care they need to stay clean and healthy - the fulfillment of our mission." Embedded in the name, Scenthound focuses on the five core areas of maintenance that all dogs need: Skin, Coat, Ears, Nails and Teeth. Monthly memberships, starting at $35, include a bath, ear cleaning, nail clip, and teeth brushing. Haircuts and other services can be added on as needed. The Mountain Brook store will be located next to Mexico Lindo at 354 Hollywood Blvd and is scheduled to open early November. Media please contact [email protected] SOURCE Scenthound LAFAYETTE, Ind., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Imagine a world where improved sleep, mood, inflammation, and stress levels were found through simple, all-natural, plant-based products. Backed by a 100-year history in medicine, family-owned Doc Brown's launched in 2020 to help relieve long-time sufferers from their ailmentswith a non-traditional twist: they use CBD. Unlike other CBD companies, Doc Brown's brings a century of pharmaceutical compounding knowledge to developing each of their products. "Providing people with an alternative solution for their symptoms has been the driving force behind our work," explains co-founder and board member Brian Brown, M.D. Brothers Brian and Grant Brown, an anesthesiologist and pharmacist, joined forces in 2018 to bring to life their combined vision of delivering solutions for patients who were looking for a trusted source on their healthcare journeys. "Since treating patients with CBD we've seen incredible results," says Dr. Brian Brown. "A huge part of our mission is bringing this evidence-based education to our community. CBD isn't just a fad. It works. It really does." When their grandfather Bernath Brown earned his pharmacy license in 1922, he might not have had CBD on his pharmacy shelves, but he had his community's safety and wellbeing at heart. In the decades following, the Brown family continued their love of providing quality health services while also keeping an open mind. Not shy about bucking the system, they dove headfirst into hemp research when they realized its potential to heal. With this dedication to scientific rigor and innovation, Doc Brown's recently partnered with the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA), supporting their ongoing research and education. Doc Brown's and NFA proudly share the vision of improving lives through evidence-based solutions. As part of Doc Brown's commitment to serving others, all of their products are rigorously tested for optimal effectiveness and taste. They start with USA grown hemp which is processed and packaged in strict adherence to FDA guidelines to ensure the highest-grade products for their customers. Creating community by putting customers first comes naturally to this family-run company. And when you contact Doc Brown's for help, you reach real people ready to share their expertise. Doc Brown's has stood the test of time for a reason: they genuinely care about creating a healthier future for all. Learn more about Doc Brown's and their CBD products by visiting www.docbrowns.com CONTACT: Michel Navedo, [email protected] SOURCE Doc Browns New Jersey-Based Agency Looks Forward to Expanded Resources for Further Growth OMAHA, Neb., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Senior Market Sales (SMS), one of the industry's premier insurance marketing organizations, has acquired The Buckley Insurance Group, LLC, a successful family-owned senior health and wealth planning agency licensed in 37 states and serving a strong client base in the tristate area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. "Since SMS started working with The Buckley Insurance Group 12 years ago, we've been impressed with the drive and dedication of owners Derick and Kerri Buckley to serve their clients," said SMS President Jim Summers. "As we continue to expand the SMS family of businesses through strategic acquisitions, the Buckleys exemplify the type of company SMS is seeking. They are highly successful, want to grow even more, and share our culture of putting clients first." SMS' strategy is to give acquired businesses the resources to continue growing and to serve more seniors. Tweet this Derick S. Buckley started The Buckley Insurance Group in 2009 in Brick, New Jersey, after 13 years working in financial services on Wall Street in New York City, London and Hong Kong. After losing 17 friends in the terrorist attacks of 9/11, he decided to change paths and discovered the daily struggles that seniors face understanding Medicare, overpaying for insurance and planning for retirement. The company helps seniors with an extensive menu of products and services, including Medicare, health and life insurance and retirement planning. The Buckleys said they wanted to join SMS to provide their employees benefits, to access tools and resources that will keep them competitive in today's rapidly consolidating insurance industry, and to ensure that their clients continue to get the high level of care they deliver. The business will continue to operate under the Buckleys with their staff and no disruption to clients. SMS' partnership in 2020 with Alliant Insurance Services, one of the nation's largest insurance and employee benefits consulting firms, made the union even more appealing because of the expanded resources, they said. "We get a lot of reviews and referrals because our clients are happy with us, and we feel like this partnership is only going to enhance what we can do for them," Kerri Buckley said. "The deciding factor for us was that Senior Market Sales holds similar values to us a family atmosphere, they put clients first and have the same work ethic. We trust them 100%. I always feel like SMS has our back, and it really does feel like a family." Derick Buckley credits SMS for helping him learn the business when he started and for facilitating his acquisition of another business in 2020 that helped the company expand. "They've changed our lives financially and through relationships," he said. "It just gives us peace of mind knowing that everything we've built for the last 12 years will be in good hands." Buckley Insurance Group also will continue to access SMS' proprietary technology, industry-leading back-office support, proven marketing systems and a comprehensive product portfolio of health and wealth solutions from top carriers. "Our strategy is not to take over businesses," Summers said. "Rather, it's to give them the resources to keep growing and to help even more seniors get the health and wealth planning they need and deserve. It's an exciting time to join the SMS family." About Senior Market Sales Senior Market Sales (SMS) represents top Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, annuity, life, long-term care, and travel insurance carriers in all 50 states. More than 70,000 independent insurance agents rely on SMS for proprietary technology, competitive insurance products, and expert training and service to help them leverage their time, make more money, and put their business in a position of distinction. Founded in 1982, SMS is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. In 2020, SMS joined the Alliant Insurance Services family of companies. Visit www.SeniorMarketSales.com or call 1.800.786.5566 for more information. About Alliant Insurance Services Alliant Insurance Services is one of the nation's leading distributors of diversified insurance products and services. Alliant operates through a network of specialized national platforms and local offices to offer clients a comprehensive portfolio of solutions built on innovative thinking and personal service. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Alliant is meeting this complexity head-on, not with more layers of management, but with more creativity and agility. Alliant is changing the way clients approach risk management and benefits, so they can capitalize on new opportunities to grow and protect their organizations. For more information, visit alliant.com. Contact: Dan Trumblee Assistant Vice President Divisional Director, Communications & Creative Services, Senior Market Sales 402.343.3689 [email protected] SOURCE Senior Market Sales NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Palantir Technologies Inc. ("Palantir" or the "Company") (NYSE: PLTR) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado, and docketed under 22-cv-02384, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Palantir securities between November 9, 2021 and May 6, 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 Palantir securities during the Class Period, you have until November 14, 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] Palantir builds and deploys software platforms to assist the U.S. intelligence community in counterterrorism investigations and operations. The Company has two operating segments, commercial and government, with the latter primarily serving agencies in the U.S. federal government and non-U.S. governments. Palantir also invests in so-called "marketable securities" consisting of equity securities in publicly-traded companies. Palantir has consistently described sources of geopolitical instability and other disruptionse.g., armed conflicts, economic crises, and the COVID-19 pandemicas tailwinds for its business, given that the Company's products and services are purportedly built to aid its customers in assessing and responding to such disruptions. The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Palantir's investments in marketable securities were having a significant negative impact on the Company's earnings per share ("EPS") results; (ii) Palantir overstated the sustainability of its government segment's growth and revenues; (iii) Palantir was experiencing a significant slowdown in revenue growth, particularly among its government customers, despite ongoing global conflicts and market disruptions; (iv) as a result of all the foregoing, the Company was likely to miss consensus estimates for its first quarter 2022 ("Q1") EPS and second quarter 2022 ("Q2") sales outlook; and (v) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On May 9, 2022, Palantir issued a press release announcing its Q1 financial results and guidance for Q2. For Q1, Palantir announced adjusted EPS of $0.02, compared to analyst estimates of $0.04 per share, noting on a conference call that the "[f]irst quarter adjusted [EPS of] $0.02 . . . includes a negative $0.02 impact driven primarily by unrealized losses on marketable securities." The Company also disclosed that government revenue grew by only 16% year-over-year for Q1, representing a significant slowdown in revenue growth compared to prior quarters, and that, for Q2, the Company expected $470 million in sales, compared to estimates of $483.76 million. On this news, Palantir's stock price fell $2.02 per share, or 21.31%, to close at $7.46 per share on May 9, 2022. As multiple news outlets reported that day, Palantir's significant decline in revenue growth, particularly from its government customers, surprised investors, especially given the ongoing geopolitical instability and other disruptions caused by, inter alia, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and Russo-Ukrainian Warthat is, precisely the type of destabilizing conditions that the Company had previously touted as tailwinds for its business. 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, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Azure Power Global Limited ("Azure" or the "Company") (NYSE: AZRE). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Azure and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On August 29, 2022, Azure issued a press release disclosing, among other items, that "[t]he Company received a whistleblower complaint in May 2022 alleging potential procedural irregularities and misconduct by certain employees at a plant belonging to one of its subsidiaries." Azure further reported that "[a]s part of the Company's review of these allegations, it discovered deviations from safety and quality norms, and it has implemented mechanisms to remediate them and in so doing strengthen safety and quality protocols. Azure's Audit Committee, with the assistance of legal counsel and forensic accounting support, also identified evidence of manipulation of project data and information by certain employees. The Company is implementing immediate remedial measures, and Azure is initiating disclosure of the findings to the appropriate authorities." On this news, Azure's stock price fell $4.61 per share or 44.07% percent, to close at $5.85 per share on August 29, 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, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Barclays PLC (""Barclays" or the "Company") (NYSE: BCS). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Barclays 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 March 28, 2022, Barclays announced that Barclays Bank PLC ("BBPLC") had issued approximately $15.2 billion in unregistered securities under an August 2019 shelf registration statement, that BBPLC would commence a rescission offer for those unregistered securities, and that Barclays expected the rescission losses to be approximately 450m. On this news, Barclays' American Depositary Receipt ("ADR") price fell $0.96 per ADR, or 10.61%, to close at $8.09 per ADR on March 28, 2022. Then, on July 28, 2022, Barclays issued interim financial results for the quarter ending June 30, 2022 and announced for the first time that BBPLC had also over-issued unregistered securities under a second BBPLC shelf registration statement. The July 28, 2022 financial results announcement also informed investors that Barclays had provisioned "1,592m [approximately $1.940 billion] (December 2021: 220m) related to the overissuance of structured notes and 165m [approximately $201 million] (December 2021: nil) related to liabilities that could be incurred arising out of ongoing discussions in respect of a potential SEC resolution." On this news, Barclays' ADR price fell $0.41 per ADR, or 5.2%, to close at $7.48 per ADR on July 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, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd. ("Dingdong" or the "Company") (NYSE: DDL). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Dingdong 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 or around June 29, 2021, Dingdong conducted its initial public offering ("IPO"), issuing approximately 4.07 million American Depositary Shares ("ADSs") priced at $23.50 per ADS. Then, on March 17, 2022, Beijing News reported that Chinese regulators had launched a probe into Dingdong for food safety violations. According to the report, Dingdong had replaced labels on expired vegetables and sold frozen fish products as fresh. On this news, Dingdong's ADS price fell $0.46 per ADS, or 10.82%, to close at $3.79 per ADS on March 17, 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 SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Levi Ray & Shoup, Inc. (LRS) announced today that Shell plc ("Shell") has selected the LRS Enterprise Cloud Printing Service, a fully managed service provided by LRS Output Management, to provide and run their print and scan management for approximately 90,000 Shell end-users for the duration of a five-year agreement. Using the LRS cloud printing service, Shell's internet-only connected end-users will be able to print and/or scan using Shell's four strategic end-user device platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS and Android. Key components of the LRS Managed Service include: A print vendor neutral solution for approximately 10,000 global print/scan hardware devices. Secure Pull Print, Push Print and Scan Workflows authenticated against OpenID. Internet based print support for mobile workers using smartphones, tablets, and other devices. About LRS LRS is a privately held U.S. company with corporate headquarters located in Springfield, Illinois, USA. Remote offices are located throughout the United States and in key geographic regions around the world. More than half of the Fortune 1000 companies rely on industry leading LRS solutions, with products in use in over 30 countries. Industry analyst groups recognize LRS as a global IT leader and Software Magazine consistently ranks LRS as one of the top software companies in the world. For more information about LRS, visit www.LRS.com. LRS and the LRS chevron logo are registered trademarks of Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. All other brand and product names are trademarks or service marks of their respective holders. Shannon Heisler 217-793-3800 [email protected] SOURCE Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. Company providing lunch meat, bacon and ham to serve free hot meals to hurricane victims, volunteers and first responders in partnership with Mercy Chefs SMITHFIELD, Va., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithfield Foods is sending more than 37,000 pounds of food the equivalent of 150,000 servings to Fort Myers, Florida, through its Helping Hungry Homes program in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. The protein will be delivered to Mercy Chefs, a Portsmouth, Virginia-based nonprofit that deploys to disaster zones across America, to serve free, chef-prepared, restaurant-quality hot meals to victims, volunteers and first responders in Fort Myers. "Our hearts go out to everyone in the path of this catastrophic hurricane," said Jonathan Toms, senior community affairs manager for Smithfield Foods. "We hope this food assistance brings some relief to the people of Fort Myers as they start down the difficult road to recovery." Chef Gary LeBlanc, founder and chief executive officer of Mercy Chefs, said, "Our continued partnership with Smithfield Foods is critical to feeding those who have lost everything. We're honored to have the opportunity to serve those facing extreme devastation in Hurricane Ian's wake." Helping Communities is a featured pillar of Smithfield's industry leading sustainability program. Since 2008, the company has donated hundreds of millions of protein servings across the U.S. through its signature hunger-relief initiative Helping Hungry Homes and recently pledged to donate an additional 200 million servings by 2025. More information on Smithfield's ongoing work to strengthen and feed our communities is available here. About Smithfield Foods, Inc. Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is an American food company with agricultural roots and a global reach. With more than 60,000 jobs globally, we are dedicated to producing "Good food. Responsibly." and serve as one of the world's leading vertically integrated protein companies. We have pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including our industry-leading commitments to become carbon negative in our U.S. company-owned operations and reduce GHG emissions 30% across our entire U.S. value chain by 2030. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to our communities. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield, Eckrich and Nathan's Famous, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. SOURCE Smithfield Foods, Inc. On the day of the 58th anniversary of the National Press Union of Liberia, Solway Investment Group joined 300 journalists in discussing the role of media and public information literacy in creating peaceful, prosperous, just, and inclusive societies. MONROVIA, Liberia, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- By supporting the umbrella organization for media professionals and local, national, and international institutions in Liberia Solway is aiming to grow its own knowledge and promote further public understanding of the functions of the media and other information providers about how to critically evaluate their content and to make informed choices as users and producers of information and media content. "Solway has been developing an iron-ore exploration project in Liberia for a few years and is now entering its new cycle of production. We were always dedicated to making it right from the very beginning and working in compliance with international regulations and global standards of good practice. Our emphasis is on constructive and open engagement with our stakeholders, including ensuring public access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms. From our experiences in other countries, we know about the importance of understanding and explaining complex issues, respecting pluralistic information systems and freedom of opinion and expression. These can highly impact the quality of life of citizens in the regions where we operate, mostly in terms of good governance and accountability. We believe that collaborating with the National Press Union will help us bring sustainability of our business practices to the next level on the way to becoming a good and trusted local corporate citizen, appreciated by all the communities in which we operate." said Maxime Sinecaut, the official representative of Solway Investment Group in Liberia. Solway is currently undergoing the continuing transition process led by the board of directors and aimed at making real improvements identified in the Group's ESG implementation plan. In this context, the group recently introduced the new corporate Human Rights Policy committing to respecting and promoting national laws and internationally recognized human rights principles, and to operating in alignment with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. Contact: +231 77 646 2932 [email protected] SOURCE Solway Investment Group Outsourcing distribution enables the Company to reduce costs and focus on optimizing retail and wholesale operations SAN DIEGO and TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - StateHouse Holdings Inc. ("StateHouse" or the "Company") (CSE: STHZ) (OTCQX: STHZF), a California-focused, vertically integrated cannabis enterprise, today announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership (the "Partnership") with Nabis, California's largest cannabis distributor, under which the Company is outsourcing all of its cannabis distribution. Under the terms of the Partnership, Nabis has assumed all of StateHouse's distribution obligations effective today. Nabis has a leading cannabis wholesale platform in California and is the state's single largest distributor of cannabis. It is the ideal partner to ensure broad and efficient distribution of StateHouse's products. Given the scale of the Nabis platform, StateHouse expects the Partnership to expand the reach of its brands across the state(1). The Partnership is expected to create millions of dollars of cost savings(1) for Statehouse. Savings are expected to be achieved through lower headcount and through reduced costs related to insurance, fuel, truck leasing, banking fees and overtime pay. Outsourcing distribution also enables the Company to put greater focus on optimizing its leading retail and wholesale operations in California to further expand margins and market share. "We are very pleased to enter this strategic partnership with Nabis, a strong and reliable distribution partner that has extensive reach across California," said Ed Schmults, Chief Executive Officer. "The cost reductions and expanded distribution footprint that we anticipate(1) from this partnership will be highly beneficial as we work to build a business that we expect will be EBITDA(2) positive next year." Notes (1) This is forward-looking information and based on a number of assumptions. See "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information" below. (2) This is a non-IFRS reporting measure. For a reconciliation of this to the nearest IFRS measure, see "Use of Non-IFRS Measures" and "Non-IFRS Measures" in the Company's management discussion and analysis for the period ended June 30, 2022. See "Non-IFRS Measures, Reconciliation and Discussion". About StateHouse StateHouse, a vertically integrated enterprise with cannabis licenses covering retail, major brands, distribution, cultivation, nursery and manufacturing, is one of the oldest and most respected cannabis companies in California. Founded in 2006, its predecessor company Harborside was awarded one of the first six medical cannabis licenses granted in the United States. Today, the Company operates 13 dispensaries covering Northern and Southern California and one in Oregon, distribution facilities in San Jose and Los Angeles, California and integrated cultivation/production facilities in Salinas and Greenfield, California. StateHouse is a publicly listed company, currently trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the ticker symbol "STHZ" and the OTCQX under the ticker symbol "STHZF". The Company continues to play an instrumental role in making cannabis safe and accessible to a broad and diverse community of California and Oregon consumers. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. To the extent any forward-looking information in this news release constitutes "financial outlooks" or "future-oriented financial information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to the ability of Nabis to manage the Company's distribution, and achieving cost reductions due to the outsourcing of distribution operations. These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as 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 materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company's operations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the cannabis markets where the Company operates; changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion and acquisitions; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; employee relations; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products in the markets where the Company operates; and the risk factors set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the period ended March 31, 2022 and the Company's listing statement dated May 30, 2019, which are available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com . Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. The Company, through several of its subsidiaries, is directly involved in the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and distribution of cannabis in the recreational and medicinal cannabis marketplace in the United States. Local state laws where the Company operates permit such activities however, investors should note that there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Cannabis remains a Schedule I drug under the United States Controlled Substances Act, making it illegal under federal law in the United States to, among other things, cultivate, distribute or possess cannabis in the United States. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities in the United States may form the basis for prosecution under applicable United States federal money laundering legislation. While the approach to enforcement of such laws by the federal government in the United States has trended toward non-enforcement against individuals and businesses that comply with recreational and medicinal cannabis programs in states where such programs are legal, strict compliance with state laws with respect to cannabis will neither absolve the Company of liability under United States federal law, nor will it provide a defense to any federal proceeding which may be brought against the Company. The enforcement of federal laws in the United States is a significant risk to the business of the Company and any proceedings brought against the Company thereunder may adversely affect the Company's operations and financial performance. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE StateHouse Holdings Inc. CAMBRIDGE, England, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stephen Galt has been appointed as Chief Commercial Officer by the Board of Directors at Cambridge Healthcare Research (CHR) to support the business through its next period of growth. This appointment forms part of the Boards initiatives to support the businesses' acceleration whilst also maintaining the commitment to quality and rigour that have ensured the company's success in the market. CHR's leadership are committed to working with the team and experienced external partners to further enhance the supportive culture for all employees. Before joining CHR, Stephen led the global commercial business unit at Fishawack Health, dealing with strategy, client services, creative and operation solutions and was a member of the operating leadership committee. Stephen was hired into Blue Latitude Health to structure and organise the client-facing business for integration with the broader Fishawack Health organisation. Some of Stephen's highlights include organisation structure redesign, implementation of competency and development frameworks, introducing structured promotion programmes, representing commercial functions at the board level and internal working groups, and systems integration and consolidation of reporting structures as part of integrating legacy agencies. Stephen brings two decades of experience designing and delivering strategic solutions for complex commercial challenges in the pharmaceutical industry; he has detailed knowledge of the drug development and commercialisation process and advocates for evidence-based solutions and services that enable our clients to improve people's health and quality of life. Matteo Perucchini, the CEO, said, "I am thrilled to welcome Stephen to the CHR team. He is a proven leader with a wealth of industry experience and excellent strategic and leadership skills, which uniquely positions him to support CHR through its next strategic phase. We are at an exciting point in CHR's growth and development, and it's the perfect time for a leader like Stephen to join our team. I look forward to working with him and the CHR Senior Management Group to capitalise on the many opportunities ahead and usher in our company's next chapter of growth and success." Stephen will be another senior hire for the business and oversee all revenue-generating activities across Competitive Intelligence, Market Research, Pricing Market Access, and future practice areas. Stephen commented, "Companies developing novel drug and healthcare devices are under increasing pressure to make better strategic decisions in increasingly dynamic situations. I am joining CHR at an interesting time in the industry, where risk and reward are more complicated than ever. I look forward to supporting my CHR colleagues, enabling our clients to bring new products to market, and supporting existing ones to benefit their patients." About Cambridge Healthcare Research Cambridge Healthcare Research is a management consultancy providing strategic decision support to the pharmaceutical, medical device and consumer healthcare industries. CHR enables its partners to navigate difficult commercial decisions by working closely with clients on asset commercialisation, product strategy and future opportunities. Mapping their position in complex markets and outlining the impact of competitor activities, intent, and capabilities on their success. Vox.Bio is CHR's dynamic healthcare market research agency, re-thinking healthcare market research to deliver meaningful insights to clients in the pharmaceutical, consumer health and medical device industries. The team is passionate about healthcare and medical innovation, and its evaluation of market dynamics combined with a targeted understanding of key trends in the prescriber, regulator, and payer environments equips their clients to make the right decisions from an optimally informed position. In 2020, CHR won The Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade. The team spans global healthcare markets, with offices in Cambridge and London and consultants across Europe, Asia and North America. For further information, please contact: Edward Cartwright [email protected] Twitter, LinkedIn, Queen's Award, Queen's Award Video +44-1223-900-191 Related Links http://www.camhcr.com https://vox.bio/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1157854/Cambridge_Healthcare_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Cambridge Healthcare Research STRADVISION introduces new company branding and logo as their mission and ambition continues to evolve for their leading Vision AI tech SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- STRADVISION, an AI-based video perception technology company, has unveiled a new company identity as they continue to accelerate global business and pursue opportunities for their innovative Vision AI software. As part of this updated company identity, STRADVISION has also unveiled a new rebranding, company logo, and video (as seen here) that symbolizes the company's ambition to empower everything to perceive intelligently. STRADVISION unveiled a new company logo that symbolizes the companys ambition to empower everything to perceive intelligently. Since 2014, STRADVISION's perception technology for ADAS and autonomous vehicles from autonomous level 0 to 5 has been a leading innovation for vision and safety in the automotive space, powered by their award-winning SVNet software that allows accurate detection and identification of objects. The company's new mission will aim to take the innovative SVNet software and expand its capabilities. According to McKinsey & Company1, the automotive software market size of $34 billion in 2020 is expected to grow by 9% every year to reach $84 billion in 2030. By domain, an 11% of growth rate is expected in ADAS and autonomous driving areas, and a 9% of growth rate is expected in infotainment. In line with this market environment, STRADVISION has already started mass production of infotainment software other than ADAS and AV. Starting in 2023, the company will mass-produce together with a German OEM for infotainment and augmented reality. As customer needs change along with market changes, STRADVISION has reorganized its product lineup from the standpoint of applications rather than technology itself. In other words, the company has introduced a new customer-oriented product lineup. This gives customers direct control over the final performance level for each product. The redesigned product lineup is ProDriver (deliver performance for safety), ParkAgent (the most advanced and complete parking solution), ImmersiView (perfect vision positioning to show real world) and CompliKit (complete suite to achieve final performance under your control). Currently, most of STRADVISION's sales are generated from ADAS and AV software in the automobile industry. As of June 2022, 559,967 units of vehicles are operating SVNet and there are more than 50 vehicle models with 13 OEMs being developed using SVNet software. STRADVISION's sales goal is to introduce SVNet in 50% of the automobiles produced annually within 10 years. "As our internal innovations and capabilities have continued to evolve, so has our mission to continue advancing the user experience and ultimately become the leading AI-inspired perception company," said Sunny Lee, CEO of STRADVISION USA. "Vision AI is a moving perspective that has widespread capabilities that impact everyday existence, from products to life solutions. We will expand our business by utilizing Vision AI capabilities in the future. In the short term, the company plans to maximize the business opportunities of Vision AI technology by expanding its products to infotainment in the automobile industry and in the long term to related industries including aviation, logistics, and mobility. We are very excited for the future and a new era at STRADVISION." STRADVISION's evolved company identity continues a significant year of milestones and growth for the company. STRADVISION has seen its workforce increase 69.2% YoY, as well as new strategic investors and partnerships such as ZF and Aptiv and international expansion including the opening of their new local subsidiary in Michigan and second office in Germany. The company has also just completed its Series C funding of $88 million ($129 million cumulative funding to date) and been successful in completing proof-of-concept (PoC) and production projects. In addition, STRADVISION's SVNet software was once again selected as the 'Best-in-Class Software for Perception Systems' during the 2022 AutoSens Awards in Brussels, Belgium. About STRADVISION Founded in 2014, STRADVISION is an automotive industry pioneer in AI-based video perception technology for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The company is accelerating the advent of fully autonomous vehicles by making ADAS features available at a fraction of the market cost compared with competitors. STRADVISION's SVNet is being deployed on various vehicle models in partnership with OEMs and powers ADAS & Autonomous Vehicles worldwide and is serviced by over 300 employees in Seoul, San Jose, Detroit, Tokyo, Shanghai, Friedrichshafen, and Dusseldorf. STRADVISION has been honored with the Gold Award at the 2021 and 2022 AutoSens Awards for Best-in-Class Software for Perception Systems, and the 2020 Autonomous Vehicle Technology ACES Award in Autonomy (Software Category). In addition, STRADVISION's software is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management System and ISO 26262 for Automotive Functional Safety. 1 Automotive software and electronics 2030. McKinsey & Company. July 2019. SOURCE StradVision NEW YORK and TOKYO, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. ("Sumitovant"), in conjunction with parent company Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. ("Sumitomo Pharma"), announced today it has submitted a non-binding proposal (the "Proposal") to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the "Audit Committee") of Myovant Sciences Ltd. ("Myovant") offering to acquire all outstanding shares of Myovant not already owned by Sumitovant for $22.75 per share in cash. The proposed transaction, if completed, would result in Myovant being delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The proposed acquisition consideration represents an equity value for Myovant of $2.4 billion and an enterprise value of $2.5 billion. The proposed per share consideration represents a premium of approximately 27% to Myovant's closing share price on September 30, 2022, and a premium of approximately 31% to the 60-day volume weighted average price of Myovant's shares through September 30, 2022. The Proposal is a natural step in the well-established relationship between Sumitovant and Myovant, and represents an unprecedented opportunity to combine expertise, platforms, and resources to deliver innovative therapies addressing unmet patient needs in women's health and prostate cancer. Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma have been impressed with the culture and significant accomplishments of Myovant's employees. If a transaction is completed, we will continue to provide support and resources to Myovant to enable achievement of its mission to redefine care for the patients they so passionately serve. Since the investment in Myovant in December 2019, both Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma have enjoyed a collaborative and successful relationship with Myovant that has facilitated the continued development and commercialization of Orgovyx and Myfembree in prostate cancer and women's health in and outside of the U.S. Further, Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma believe that the Proposal is financially compelling and will create significant and immediate value for Myovant's shareholders. The Proposal provides that the proposed transaction will be subject to the approval of the shareholders of Myovant holding a majority of the shares not owned by Sumitovant. In addition, Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma informed the Audit Committee in the Proposal that, in Sumitovant's capacity as a majority shareholder in Myovant, Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma are interested only in acquiring the shares of Myovant not already owned by Sumitovant and that in such capacity, Sumitovant has no interest in selling any of the Myovant shares it owns, nor would Sumitovant support any alternative sale, merger, or similar transaction involving Myovant. The Proposal does not create any binding legal obligation between Sumitovant or Sumitomo Pharma and Myovant. Neither Sumitovant, Sumitomo Pharma nor Myovant will have any obligation or liability to the other with respect to a transaction unless and until definitive transaction documents are executed and delivered by the parties. Advisors J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as financial advisor and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is serving as legal counsel to Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma. About Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. Sumitovant is a technology-driven biopharmaceutical company accelerating development and commercialization of new potential therapies for patients with rare conditions and other diseases. Through our proprietary computing and data platforms, scientific expertise and diverse company portfolio, Sumitovant has supported development of multiple FDA-approved products and a robust pipeline of early- through late-stage investigational assets addressing unmet patient needs in pediatrics, urology, oncology, women's health, specialty respiratory and infectious diseases. Sumitovant is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Pharma. Please visit our website www.sumitovant.com for more information on Sumitovant and our portfolio. About Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. Sumitomo Pharma is among the top-ten listed pharmaceutical companies in Japan, operating globally in major pharmaceutical markets, including Japan, the U.S., China, and other Asian countries with about 7,000 employees worldwide. Sumitomo Pharma defines its corporate mission as "To broadly contribute to society through value creation based on innovative research and development activities for the betterment of healthcare and fuller lives of people worldwide." Additional information about Sumitomo Pharma is available through its corporate website at https://www.sumitomo-pharma.com. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains statements regarding the proposed transaction that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws and Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma may make related oral, forward-looking statements on or following the date hereof. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are subject to a variety of inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results projected. Many of these risks and uncertainties cannot be controlled by Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma and include the possibility that discussions with the Audit Committee may not be successful and the possibility that the proposed transaction may not be entered into or completed on the terms described in this press release or at all, including as a result of changes in the business or prospects of Myovant. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Neither Sumitovant nor Sumitomo Pharma assumes any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements except as required by law. No information contained on any website referenced in this press release is incorporated by reference herein. Additional Information and Where to Find It AN AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION DESCRIBED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE HAS NOT YET BEEN EXECUTED, AND THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT AN OFFER TO PURCHASE OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO SELL ANY SECURITIES. ANY SOLICITATION OR OFFER WILL ONLY BE MADE THROUGH MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. IF AN AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF A PROPOSED TRANSACTION IS EXECUTED, EACH STOCKHOLDER OF MYOVANT SHOULD READ THESE MATERIALS IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. ONCE A FILING IS MADE, SHAREHOLDERS OF MYOVANT CAN OBTAIN SUCH MATERIALS (WHEN AVAILABLE) FREE OF CHARGE AT THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION'S WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.SEC.GOV. Media / IR Contacts: Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. Maya Frutiger VP, Head of Corporate Communications [email protected] Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. Corporate Communications TEL: +81-6-6203-1407 (Osaka); +81-3-5205-3725 (Tokyo) SOURCE Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. DALLAS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunoco LP (NYSE: SUN) ("SUN") announced that it will release its third quarter 2022 financial and operating results before the market opens on Tuesday, November 1, 2022. Management will hold a conference call that same day at 9:00 a.m. Central Time (10:00 a.m. Eastern Time) to discuss SUN's results. By Phone: Dial 877-407-6184 (toll free) or 201-389-0877 at least 10 minutes before the call. A replay will be available through November 8, 2022 by dialing 877-660-6853 (toll free) or 201-612-7415 and using the conference ID 13733238. By Webcast: Connect to the webcast via the Webcasts and Presentations page of SUN's Investor Relations website at www.SunocoLP.com. Please log in at least 10 minutes in advance to register and download any necessary software. A replay will be available shortly after the call. About Sunoco LP Sunoco LP (NYSE: SUN) is a master limited partnership with core operations that include the distribution of motor fuel to approximately 10,000 convenience stores, independent dealers, commercial customers and distributors located in more than 40 U.S. states and territories as well as refined product transportation and terminalling assets. SUN's general partner is owned by Energy Transfer LP (NYSE: ET). Contacts Scott Grischow Treasurer, Vice President Investor Relations and Mergers & Acquisitions (214) 840-5660, [email protected] James Heckler Director Investor Relations and Corporate Finance (214) 840-5415, [email protected] SOURCE Sunoco LP AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- With flu season beginning next month, Superior HealthPlan is again encouraging Texans to get the flu vaccine through its annual Fluvention program. Every flu season is unique, and the flu can affect people differently. That's why it's important to get the flu vaccine each year to protect yourself and loved ones from illness. Up to 11% of Americans catch the flu virus each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The flu vaccine has proven to have many benefits including reduced risk of illness, hospitalization, and even flu-related death. In 2019-2020, the flu vaccine prevented an estimated 7.5 million flu illnesses and an estimated 105,000 flu-related hospitalizations. It also can be lifesaving for children. In a 2022 study, the flu vaccine showed to reduce children's risk of severe life-threatening influenza by 75%. Superior's Fluvention program offers resources at no cost to help Texans understand the importance of the flu shot, the risks of flu season, and other preventive measures. The initiative strives to increase flu vaccination rates, especially for high-risk populations by delivering targeted messaging through multiple touchpoints including letters, phone calls, texting, and local events. The Fluvention program was recently recognized with the Health Information Award for its commitment to educate and empower families, communities, and organizations to take care of themselves each flu season. "To help protect against the flu, we are encouraging people to schedule their flu shot appointments as soon as possible," said Dr. David Harmon, Chief Medical Director at Superior HealthPlan. "While it may seem early, it takes two weeks after getting the shot for the antibodies that protect against the flu to fully develop, so it's best to act early." This year's flu season faces an additional complication with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its many variants. Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, so it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. There are also unique considerations for avoiding the spread of COVID-19 versus the flu. Below are a few key differences: While testing is the best way to confirm a diagnosis, one of the unique signs and symptoms of COVID-19 is the loss of taste and smell. Flu symptoms typically develop 1-4 days after infection, while COVID-19 symptoms can take 5 days to develop. Most people with flu are contagious for 1 day before they show symptoms. With COVID-19, it's possible for someone to spread the virus for about 2 days before symptoms, and they remain contagious for at least 10 days after symptoms first appeared. Vaccination and practicing good hygiene like washing hands and covering coughs are key to preventing the flu and staying healthy this flu season. Members can receive a flu vaccine at no cost through their doctor or a nearby pharmacy. While everyone should get the flu shot, the CDC notes it's especially important for the following groups who are at higher risk for complications: Women who are pregnant. Children younger than age 5, but especially children younger than age 2. People 65 years of age and older. People with certain chronic medical conditions. Superior HealthPlan has been supporting Texas residents since 1999 and now offers Medicaid, Medicare and Ambetter plans throughout the state. For more information about Superior's Fluvention program, visit SuperiorHealthPlan.com/flu. About Superior HealthPlan Founded in 1999, Superior HealthPlan is a managed care company that delivers quality healthcare throughout Texas. Committed to transforming the health of the community, one person at a time, Superior supports active local involvement in all 254 Texas counties with 3,000 employees throughout the state. Superior is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading healthcare enterprise that is committed to helping people live healthier lives. For more information visit www.SuperiorHealthPlan.com. SOURCE Superior HealthPlan NOIDA, India, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new report published by UnivDatos Markets Insights, the Smart Meters Market is expected to reach the market valuation of USD 40.6 billion by 2027 expanding at a reasonable CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period. The analysis has been segmented into Technology (Automated Meter Reading (AMR), Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)); Type (Smart Electric Meter, Smart Gas Meter, Smart Water Mater); Communication Technology (Power line communication, Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF), Cellular communication); Component (Hardware, Software); End-User (Residential, Commercial, Industrial); Region/Country. Click here to view the Report Description & TOC https://univdatos.com/report/smart-meter-market/ The Smart Meters market report has been aggregated by collecting informative data on various dynamics such as market drivers, restraints, and opportunities. This innovative report makes use of several analyses to get a closer outlook on the Smart Meters market. The Smart Meters market report offers a detailed analysis of the latest industry developments and trending factors in the market that are influencing the market growth. Furthermore, this statistical market research repository examines and estimates the Smart Meters market at the global and regional levels. Request for Sample Pages https://univdatos.com/get-a-free-sample-form-php/?product_id=6277 Market Overview Smart metering solutions have ascertained to be a boon to consumers who get a freedom of monitoring and regulating their power usage. Smart meter rollouts are predominantly driven by governmental support and subsidies, are further driven by the increasing demand for improved billing accuracy and curb non-technical losses. For instance, as of 2018, over 99 million smart electricity meters were deployed across the European Union. It is expected that 24 million more smart meters would be installed in the region by the end of 2020. The European Commission DG Energy has estimated a total investment of 18.8 billion (US$ 22.1 billion) would be required to achieve the 2020 target. Also, the institution has estimated an investment requirement of 40.7 billion (US$ 47.9 billion) by 2030 to install/deploy 266 million smart meters in the European Union. Furthermore, at the end of 2018, there were 86 million smart meters installed throughout the US, compared to 1,190 smart meters installed globally. COVID-19 Impact Covid-19 pandemic have impacted all section of the society and industry and Smart Meter market is no exception. The global demand for Smart Meter decreased in 2020 and is expected to witness the trend in the FY2021. The increasing time spent at home due to nationwide lockdown has increased the energy consumption among residential end-users, leading to significant and complex shifts in energy demand. Although the Covid-19 pandemic has forced to stop all the field work of several major smart metering projects, the market is nonetheless expected to remain robust with the cumulative number of smart meter shipments being largely unaffected over a three-year period. Click here to view the Report Description & TOC https://univdatos.com/report/smart-meter-market/ The global Smart Meters market report is studied thoroughly with several aspects that would help stakeholders in making their decisions more curated. Based on technology the global smart meter market is bifurcated into Automated Meter Reading (AMR) and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). Currently, Automated Meter Reading (AMR) segment dominate the market and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. As pe EIA, US electric utilities had more than 94.8 million advanced (smart) metering infrastructure (AMI) installed as of 2019. About 88% of all AMI installed were among residential end-users. Based on type the global smart meter market is segmented into Smart Electric Meter, Smart Gas Meter, Smart Water Mater. In 2020, Smart Electric Meter segment dominated the market. In 2018, globally, the installed base of smart electricity, gas and water meters stood at 1,190 million and the number is expected to reach 1,645 million by the end of 2020. Based on communication technology the market is divided into Power line communication, Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF), Cellular communication. Growing adoption of IoT has increased digitalization across several industries, such as gas and electricity, at an enormous rate. IoT communication networks have enabled the grid operators and DISCOMS to provide modern-day energy services. Based on component, the market is bifurcated into Hardware and software component. Hardware segment dominated the market in 2020. Smart Meter manufactures are focusing more on reducing the hardware component with high level of system integration and simplifying design, this would further accelerate the market growth. For instance, in 2017, Diehl Metering partnered with NEC Europe to integrate metering systems in its Smart City Platform (CCOC). Based on end-user the market is bifurcated into residential, commercial, and industrial end-users. Currently residential segment dominates the market and is expected to maintain its dominance during the analyzed period. Developing countries in the North America and European region are deploying Smart Meter on large scale in the households, this would further drive the market for residential Smart Meter. Number of AMI installations by sector, 2019 in the US stood at 94,838,855. Among which residential with 83,539,594 installations dominated the market, followed by commercial (10,850,886); industrial sector (446,871) and transportation sector (1,504). Have a Look at the Chapters - https://univdatos.com/report/smart-meter-market/ Smart Meters Market Geographical Segmentation Includes: North America ( United States , Canada , and Rest of North America ) ( , , and Rest of ) Europe ( Germany , United Kingdom , Spain , Italy , France , and the Rest of Europe ) ( , , , , , and the Rest of ) Asia-Pacific ( China , Japan , India , South Korea , and the Rest of Asia-Pacific ) ( , , , , and the Rest of ) Rest of the World For a better understanding of the market adoption, report provide detailed analysis for major region and countries including North America (US, Canada, Rest of North America), Europe (Germany, France, Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, and Rest of APAC), and Rest of World. North America and Asia-Pacific (Specifically China) would be the top two market for smart metering solutions, owing to proactive deployment of smart grid solutions in countries such as US, India, and China. Europe has emerged as a major hub for smart meter, providing ample growth opportunities for the manufacturers, as smart metering is mandatory in the UK and across Europe. Furthermore, over the forecast period, emerging markets in the MEA region are estimated to be at the forefront of smart meters deployment as a reliable source of energy supply & management. The major players targeting the market include Honeywell International Itron Landis+Gyr Apator Group Diehl Metering Elster Group Southern California Schneider Electric Siemens AG Badger Meter. Competitive Landscape The degree of competition among prominent global companies has been elaborated by analyzing several leading key players operating worldwide. The specialist team of research analysts sheds light on various traits such as global market competition, market share, most recent industry advancements, innovative product launches, partnerships, mergers, or acquisitions by leading companies in the Smart Meters market. The major players have been analyzed by using research methodologies for getting insight views on global competition. Key questions resolved through this analytical market research report include: What are the latest trends, new patterns, and technological advancements in the Smart Meters market? Which factors are influencing the Smart Meters market over the forecast period? What are the global challenges, threats, and risks in the Smart Meters market? Which factors are propelling and restraining the Smart Meters market? What are the demanding global regions of the Smart Meters market? What will be the global market size in the upcoming years? What are the crucial market acquisition strategies and policies applied by global companies? We understand the requirement of different businesses, regions, and countries, we offer customized reports as per your requirements of business nature and geography. Please let us know If you have any custom needs. Browse Other Related Research Reports from UnivDatos Market Insights Smart Meters Market Report Coverage Report Attribute Details Base year 2020 Forecast period 2021-2027 Growth momentum Accelerate at a CAGR of over 7.1% Market size 2027 USD 40.6 billion Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Rest of World Major contributing region North America to Dominate the Global Smart Meters Market Key countries covered United States, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, France, China, Japan, India, and South Korea Companies profiled Honeywell International, Itron, Landis+Gyr, Apator Group, Diehl Metering, Elster Group, Southern California, Schneider Electric, Siemens AG, Badger Meter. Report Scope Market Trends, Drivers, and Restraints; Revenue Estimation and Forecast; Segmentation Analysis; Impact of COVID-19; Demand and Supply Side Analysis; Competitive Landscape; Company Profiling Segments Covered By Technology; By Type; By Communication Technology; By Component; By End-Users; By Region/Country About UnivDatos Market Insights (UMI) UnivDatos Market Insights (UMI) is a passionate market research firm and a subsidiary of Universal Data Solutions. We believe in delivering insights through Market Intelligence Reports, Customized Business Research, and Primary Research. Our research studies are spread across topics across the world, we cover markets in over 100 countries using smart research techniques and agile methodologies. We offer in-depth studies, detailed analysis, and customized reports that help shape winning business strategies for our clients. Contact UnivDatos Market Insights Ankita Gupta Director Operations Ph: +91-7838604911 Email: [email protected] Website: https://univdatos.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1225049/UnivDatos_Logo.jpg SOURCE Univdatos Market Insights Private Limited TGH acquired Palm Beach Radiology, expanding its statewide outpatient imaging centers to enhance its patient care network. WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its commitment to connecting the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast communities to highly complex medical care, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has acquired Palm Beach Radiology in North Palm Beach, Fla. Effective Oct. 1, 2022, the full-service radiology center will be known as TGH Imaging and will bring together essential assets to significantly increase access, maximize efficiency, and continue to provide high-quality images and excellent service to patients and physicians in the area. The same experienced team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff will continue to serve the community. TGH Imaging Logo. "Adding a highly experienced and clinically excellent team such as Palm Beach Radiology will round out our services offerings to the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast communities," said Sherri Lewman, senior vice president of enterprise imaging, Tampa General. "Patients in the area can now receive imaging exams within the Tampa General system, making for a more seamless experience." Palm Beach Radiology, now TGH Imaging, is an imaging center accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Board-certified, on-site radiologists work as a team with highly trained technologists to offer patients high-quality exam results, often available on the same day. As a diagnostic resource for both patients and physicians, TGH Imaging offers a range of exams, including high-field, short-bore MRI (including breast MRI), multidetector CT, image-guided biopsies, 3D mammography, ultrasound, bone density scan, and digital X-ray. "This is an exciting opportunity for us to be part of an academic medical center that expands care options to our community while continuing the level of care and services that our patients and referring physicians have come to expect from us since we opened our doors in 2007," said Dr. Donald Goodwin, radiologist and co-founder of Palm Beach Radiology. "We are eager to leverage the expertise and resources of Tampa General to provide another level of support for our patients." TGH Imaging will remain in the same Palm Beach Radiology location 733 U.S. Highway 1, Building 2B in North Palm Beach, 561-841-8588. "Patients will continue to see the same expert and caring team for their imaging needs," said Goodwin. For the past two years, Tampa General has been creating a framework of state-of-the-art services for patients in the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast areas with the expertise and innovation of a preeminent academic medical center. The Florida East Coast initiative includes alliances with Cancer Center of South Florida and Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches, along with establishing TGH General Surgeons of the Palm Beaches with renowned West Palm Beach robotic surgeons, Dr. Daniel R. Higgins and Dr. Itzhak Shasha, opening the area's first TGH Imaging radiology location, a PET/CT imaging center. The TGH Cancer Institute also recently partnered with West Palm Beach-based physicians thoracic surgical oncologist, Dr. Robert Scoma, and Dr. Jason Hechtman, a breast cancer surgeon. TGH Imaging will not only support patients and physicians in the South Florida area, but also work closely with the academic medical center's TGH Cancer Institute, allowing for a more streamlined process from diagnosis to treatment. The teams will take a multidisciplinary approach and strongly emphasize compassionate and personalized care that focuses on the whole patient. Should patients require treatment in Tampa, they can return home to the East Coast for follow-up care with their health care provider. Tampa General is the third highest ranked hospital in Florida by U.S. News & World Report for 2022-23 and is the primary teaching affiliate of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. Patients who need a higher level of care have a direct connection to Tampa General's academic medical center resources through its affiliation with USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, including research breakthroughs, a wider variety of clinical trials and options for advanced immunotherapy procedures, enhanced personal treatment plans, and a convenient path to complex surgeries. Tampa General Hospital has been affiliated with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine since the school was created in the early 1970s. Tampa General Hospital is the primary teaching affiliate of the University of South Florida medical school and more than 300 residents are assigned to Tampa General Hospital for specialty training in areas ranging from general internal medicine to neurosurgery. In addition, USF medical, nursing, pharmacy, and physical therapy students all receive part of their training at Tampa General. Faculty of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine admit and care for patients at Tampa General as do private practice physicians, many of whom also serve as adjunct clinical faculty at USF. For more information on TGH Imaging, visit tghimaging.com. ABOUT TGH IMAGING Established in 1994, TGH Imaging, formerly known as Tower Radiology, is one of the largest outpatient radiology practices in West Central Florida, with 21 locations in four counties. The new name marks Tampa General Hospital's complete purchase of Tower Radiology, expanding its statewide outpatient sites to 84, including primary care, urgent care, rehab, cancer care, surgery, and imaging. After decades of working closely, the purchase officially combines industry expertise and the drive to deliver world-class care through innovation to enhance the quality and coordination of outpatient care while achieving the optimal patient experience. TGH Imaging holds accreditations in all imaging modalities by the American College of Radiology (ACR), is an ACR Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, and is a designated ACR Lung Cancer Screening Center. For three years, TGH Imaging has been the Tampa Bay Times, People's Choice Best of the Best Mammogram Center in Tampa. TGH Imaging offers specialized services such as 3D mammography, weight-bearing open MRI, cardiac MRI, wide-bore MRI, low-dose CT lung screening, PET/CT, and 64-slice CT. All exam interpretations are by board-certified radiologists that hold additional certifications in imaging-focused subspecialties and participate in the academic missions of research and teaching by serving as faculty and staff for USF and FSU Colleges of Medicine in the Departments of Radiology. TGH Imaging's mission is to provide the highest quality screening and diagnostic radiology services to patients and providers in our community within a safe, compassionate, professional, and technologically advanced environment. For more information, go to www.TGHimaging.com. ABOUT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL Tampa General Hospital, a 1,040-bed, not-for-profit, academic medical center, is one of the largest hospitals in America and delivers world-class care as the region's only center for Level l trauma and comprehensive burn care. Tampa General Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in the market in U.S. News & World Report's 2022-23 Best Hospitals, and is tied as the third highest-ranked hospital in Florida, with seven specialties ranking among the best programs in the United States. Tampa General Hospital has been designated as a model of excellence by the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals list. The academic medical center's commitment to growing and developing its team members is recognized by two prestigious Forbes magazine rankings first nationally in the 2022 America's Best Employers for Women and sixth out of 100 Florida companies in the 2022 America's Best Employers by State. Tampa General is the safety net hospital for the region, caring for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, and in fiscal year 2020, provided a net community benefit worth more than $182.5 million in the form of healthcare for underinsured patients, community education, and financial support to community health organizations in Tampa Bay. It is one of the nation's busiest adult solid organ transplant centers and is the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. With six medical helicopters, Tampa General Hospital transports critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to receive the advanced care they need. Tampa General houses a nationally accredited comprehensive stroke center, and its 32-bed Neuroscience, Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the West Coast of Florida. It also is home to the Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed Level IV neonatal intensive care unit, and a nationally accredited rehabilitation center. Tampa General Hospital's footprint includes 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, TGH Brandon Healthplex, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging powered by Tower outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa Bay area residents also receive world-class care from the TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track network of clinics, and they can even receive home visits in select areas through TGH Urgent Care at Home, powered by Fast Track. As one of the largest hospitals in the country, Tampa General Hospital is the first in Florida to partner with GE Healthcare and open a clinical command center that provides real-time situational awareness to improve and better coordinate patient care at a lower cost. For more information, go to https://www.tgh.org. Media Contact: Tamra FitzGerald Venue Marketing Group (561) 844-1778, ext. 112 (direct) (561) 310-9665 (cell) [email protected] SOURCE Tampa General Hospital NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The telecom expense management software market size is expected to grow by USD 1.71 billion during 2020-2025, at a CAGR of 12.14% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Avotus Corp., Calero-MDSL, Cass Information Systems Inc., Globys Inc., Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp., Saaswedo SAS, Tangoe Inc., Tellennium Inc., Valicom Corp., and Vodafone Group Plc are some of the major market participants. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Telecom Expense Management Software Market 2021-2025 The rising popularity of the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policy, growing focus to reduce growing mobility costs, and rapid advances in technologies driving demand for scalable management solutions will offer immense growth opportunities. However, lack of interoperability, increasing tendency of switching by vendors, and increasing data security issues will challenge the growth of the market participants. Buy Sample Report. Parent Market Analysis Technavio categorizes the global Telecom Expense Management Software Market as a part of the global application software market within the global information technology (IT) software market. Technavio uses the total revenue generated by manufacturers to estimate the global Telecom Expense Management Software Market size. External factors influencing the parent market's growth potential in the coming years have been thoroughly investigated in our research analysis, to know more about the levels of growth of the Telecom Expense Management Software Market throughout the forecast period. Telecom Expense Management Software Market Value Chain Analysis To maximize profit margins and evaluate business plans, an end-to-end understanding of Telecom Expense Management Software is required. The report will help vendors drive costs and enhance customer services during the forecast period. Inputs Operations Marketing and sales Service Support activities Innovation To unlock information about vendor drive costs and customer service, download a free sample report. Telecom Expense Management Software Market Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the Telecom Expense Management Software Market, including some of the vendors such as vendors Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the Telecom Expense Management Software Market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Avotus Corp. Calero-MDSL Cass Information Systems Inc. Globys Inc. Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. Saaswedo SAS Tangoe Inc. Tellennium Inc. Valicom Corp. Vodafone Group Plc Find additional highlights on the growth strategies adopted by vendors and their product offerings, Read Free Sample Report. Telecom Expense Management Software Market Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period Detailed information on factors that will assist telecom expense management software market growth during the next five years Estimation of the telecom expense management software market size and its contribution to the parent market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of telecom expense management software market vendors Related Reports: Smart Advisor Market by Type and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026 Web Analytics Market by Deployment and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026 Telecom Expense Management Software Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2020 Forecast period 2021-2025 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 12.14% Market growth 2021-2025 $1.71 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 9.07 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA Performing market contribution North America at 42% Key consumer countries US, UK, Germany, China, and Canada Competitive landscape Leading companies, Competitive Strategies, Consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Avotus Corp., Calero-MDSL, Cass Information Systems Inc., Globys Inc., Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp., Saaswedo SAS, Tangoe Inc., Tellennium Inc., Valicom Corp., and Vodafone Group 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, and 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. Table Of Contents : Executive Summary Market Landscape Market ecosystem Value chain analysis Market Sizing Market Definition Market segment analysis Market size 2020 Market outlook: Forecast for 2020 - 2025 Five Forces Analysis Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition Market Segmentation by Deployment Market segments Comparison by Deployment On-premises - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Cloud-based - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Market opportunity by Deployment Customer landscape Geographic Landscape Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison North America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Europe - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 APAC - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 South America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 MEA - Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Key leading countries Market opportunity by geography Market drivers Market challenges Market trends Vendor Landscape Landscape disruption Vendor Analysis Vendors covered Market positioning of vendors Avotus Corp. Calero-MDSL Cass Information Systems Inc. Globys Inc. Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. Saaswedo SAS Tangoe Inc. Tellennium Inc. Valicom Corp. Vodafone Group Plc Appendix Scope of the report Currency conversion rates for US$ Research methodology 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 provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio Ellison will be recognized for advancing diversity and delivering business growth over his 35-plus years as retail leader WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), the preeminent global membership organization for Black CEOs, senior executives, board members, top-tier entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders, has announced that it will honor ELC member and Lowe's Chairman and CEO Marvin Ellison with the 2022 ELC Achievement Award during its 36th Annual Recognition Gala taking place on October 6, 2022 at 6:00 pm at the Washington D.C. Marriott Marquis. The Achievement Award is presented to Black corporate executives whose business career achievements highlight personal and professional excellence. "Marvin embodies the courage, tenacity and vision that The ELC works every day to instill in its scholars and future generations of Black executives and professionals," said ELC CEO Michael Hyter. "His achievements are not only proof that anything is possible, but that investment in ideas, innovation, and inclusion, is profitable for the triple bottom line. Marvin serves as a source of pride for the Black community and for The ELC and we are honored to recognize his achievements." Marvin is a source of pride for the Black community and for The ELC and we are honored to recognize his achievements. Tweet this As only one of six Black Fortune 500 CEOs, and the only Black executive to serve as CEO of more than one Fortune 500 company, Ellison also stands out as one of its most effective leaders. Since his arrival at Lowe's in 2018, the company has generated nearly $25 billion in incremental sales, while delivering total shareholder return of approximately 120%, as compared to approximately 44% for the S&P 500 over the same timeframe. Additionally, diversity and inclusion are a priority, with 50% of Lowe's executive officers and over 50% of the Lowe's board of directors being women and/or racially or ethnically diverse. "The collective power of The ELC and its members to develop our future leaders and help them reach their highest potential is as important today as it has ever been," Ellison said. "It's an honor to receive this recognition and also to partner with the Council to continue the hard work that remains to bring out the best in others and drive greater diversity across the business community." Ellison's career spans over three decades, beginning at Target where he spent 15 years, first as a college student working security and later in a variety of operational and leadership roles. He went on to serve as executive vice president of U.S. Stores at Home Depot from 2008 to 2014, overseeing U.S. sales, operations, install services and pro strategic initiatives. At Home Depot, he was credited with dramatically improving customer service and efficiency across the organization. Prior to joining Lowe's, he served as chairman and CEO of J.C. Penney Co., where he delivered positive sales growth, reduced debt and generated positive adjusted earnings per share. He serves on the boards for FedEx Corporation and the Retail Industry Leaders Association, and he also serves on the board of trustees for the University of Memphis. The ELC 36th Annual Recognition Gala is the organization's most important fundraising event, supporting its scholarships, educational outreach and philanthropic initiatives and recognizing its mission, purpose and impact in action. This year's gala highlights business achievement, honors corporate and individual award recipients, and delivers $1.5 million in scholarships to ELC Scholarship Program awardees. Johnson & Johnson returns as the Lead Sponsor of the 2022 Gala. ABOUT THE ELC: The Executive Leadership Council opens channels of opportunity for the development of Black executives to positively impact business and our communities. An independent non-profit 501(c)(3) founded in 1986, The ELC is the pre-eminent membership organization committed to increasing the number of global Black executives in C-suites, on corporate boards and in global enterprises. Comprising more than 800 current and former Black CEOs, senior executives and board directors at Fortune 1000 and Global 500 companies and entrepreneurs at top-tier firms, its members work to build an inclusive business leadership pipeline that empowers global Black leaders to make impactful contributions to the marketplace and the global communities they serve. For more information, please visit www.elcinfo.com. Engage during the event on social media: #ELCGALA on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. CONTACT: Sonia Diaz, [email protected] SOURCE The Executive Leadership Council SAN DIEGO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of San Diego (USD) is celebrating the grand opening of the Knauss Center for Business Education , one of the most innovative buildings in business higher education and home to the newly named Knauss School of Business . University of San Diego Board Chairman Don Knauss, the former CEO of Clorox, and his wife, Ellie, donated $50 million to fund construction of the new 120,000-square-foot facility and also to name the Knauss School of Business. Each space within the Knauss Center for Business Education is designed to create an ecosystem for innovation and collaboration that empowers students and inspires groundbreaking ideas that not only will serve the greater San Diego region, but will also inspire innovative Changemakers to confront humanity's most urgent challenges. Inside the Knauss Center for Business Education ( video here ): The Free Enterprise Institute makes entrepreneurship accessible by providing practical education and resources to students, startups and investors. The Catalyzer helps students turn bold ideas into booming startups and value-driven enterprises. The Student Success Center unifies advising, career development, mentoring and other student services under one roof. The Busch Family Production Studio, a state-of-the-art production studio for creating presentations, videos, podcasts and other tools to help students develop their personal brand. The Rivetti and Zocco Finance Lab enables students to experience real world projects, expanding their industry connections and network. The Knauss School of Business is also devoted to helping local, national and international businesses. More than $190 million has been invested in growing new businesses through the Knauss School of Business' San Diego Angel Conference. The Brink Small Business Development Center has provided free consulting services to help more than 1,400 local small businesses. The Ahlers Center for International Business has partnered with the San Diego Chamber of Commerce to produce the CaliBaja Regional Economy report. It has also partnered with the World Trade Center's MetroConnect program to create the global readiness and global market navigator programs to leverage students and faculty as consultants for small businesses pursuing export initiatives. The Supply Chain Management Institute has partnered with the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation and the Anchor Institution Collaborative to support regional anchor institutions and their goals to purchase from and contract with local small businesses. San Diego's Mayor also proclaimed October 1, 2022 as "Knauss School of Business Day." SOURCE University of San Diego DUBLIN, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Ethernet Switch Market (2022-2027) by Product, Switching Ports, End-User, Geography, Competitive Analysis and the Impact of Covid-19 with Ansoff Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Global Ethernet Switch Market is estimated to be USD 5.06 Bn in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 6.17 Bn by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.06%. Market dynamics are forces that impact the prices and behaviors of the Global Ethernet Switch Market stakeholders. These forces create pricing signals which result from the changes in the supply and demand curves for a given product or service. Forces of Market Dynamics may be related to macro-economic and micro-economic factors. There are dynamic market forces other than price, demand, and supply. Human emotions can also drive decisions, influence the market, and create price signals. As the market dynamics impact the supply and demand curves, decision-makers aim to determine the best way to use various financial tools to stem various strategies for speeding the growth and reducing the risks. Company Profiles The report provides a detailed analysis of the competitors in the market. It covers the financial performance analysis for the publicly listed companies in the market. The report also offers detailed information on the companies' recent development and competitive scenario. Some of the companies covered in this report are Cisco Systems, Huawei, Hewlett-Packard, Arista, Juniper Networks, H3c, Brocade Communications Systems, D-Link, Allied Telesis, Alcatel-Lucent, Trendnet, Dell, etc. Countries Studied America ( Argentina , Brazil , Canada , Chile , Colombia , Mexico , Peru , United States , Rest of Americas) , , , , , , , , Rest of Americas) Europe ( Austria , Belgium , Denmark , Finland , France , Germany , Italy , Netherlands , Norway , Poland , Russia , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , United Kingdom , Rest of Europe ) ( , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Rest of ) Middle-East and Africa ( Egypt , Israel , Qatar , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , United Arab Emirates , Rest of MEA) and ( , , , , , , Rest of MEA) Asia-Pacific ( Australia , Bangladesh , China , India , Indonesia , Japan , Malaysia , Philippines , Singapore , South Korea , Sri Lanka , Thailand , Taiwan , Rest of Asia-Pacific ) Competitive Quadrant The report includes Competitive Quadrant, a proprietary tool to analyze and evaluate the position of companies based on their Industry Position score and Market Performance score. The tool uses various factors for categorizing the players into four categories. Some of these factors considered for analysis are financial performance over the last 3 years, growth strategies, innovation score, new product launches, investments, growth in market share, etc. Ansoff Analysis The report presents a detailed Ansoff matrix analysis for the Global Ethernet Switch Market. Ansoff Matrix, also known as Product/Market Expansion Grid, is a strategic tool used to design strategies for the growth of the company. The matrix can be used to evaluate approaches in four strategies viz. Market Development, Market Penetration, Product Development and Diversification. The matrix is also used for risk analysis to understand the risk involved with each approach. The analyst analyses the using the Ansoff Matrix to provide the best approaches a company can take to improve its market position. Based on the SWOT analysis conducted on the industry and industry players, the analyst has devised suitable strategies for market growth. Why buy this report? The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the Global Ethernet Switch Market. The report includes in-depth qualitative analysis, verifiable data from authentic sources, and projections about market size. The projections are calculated using proven research methodologies. The report has been compiled through extensive primary and secondary research. The primary research is done through interviews, surveys, and observation of renowned personnel in the industry. The report includes an in-depth market analysis using Porter's 5 forces model and the Ansoff Matrix. In addition, the impact of Covid-19 on the market is also featured in the report. The report also includes the regulatory scenario in the industry, which will help you make a well-informed decision. The report discusses major regulatory bodies and major rules and regulations imposed on this sector across various geographies. The report also contains the competitive analysis using Positioning Quadrants, the analyst's Proprietary competitive positioning tool. Key Topics Covered: 1 Report Description 2 Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Market Dynamics 4.1 Drivers 4.1.1 Surge in Demand for High-Speed Internet Facility 4.1.2 Increase in Application of Automation Across Industries 4.2 Restraints 4.2.1 Complications of the Installation and Adjustment Processes. 4.3 Opportunities 4.3.1 Growing Technological Innovation Such as Machine Top Machine 9m2M Technology) In Iot, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence 4.4 Challenges 4.4.1 Availability of Cheaper Options Like Cellular Networks and Telecom Internet 4.4.2 High Installation Cost 5 Market Analysis 5.1 Regulatory Scenario 5.2 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 5.3 Impact of COVID-19 5.4 Ansoff Matrix Analysis 6 Global Ethernet Switch Market, By Product 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Modular Ethernet Switches 6.3 Fixed Configuration Ethernet Switches 6.4 1 Unmanaged Switches 6.5 2 Smart Switches 6.6 3 Managed l2 and l3 Switches 7 Global Ethernet Switch Market, By Switching Ports 7.1 Introduction 7.2 100ME And 1GbE 7.3 10GbE 7.4 40GbE 7.5 100GbE 8 Global Ethernet Switch Market, By End-User 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Carrier Ethernet 8.3 Data Center 8.4 Enterprise and Campus 9 Americas' Ethernet Switch Market 9.1 Introduction 9.2 Argentina 9.3 Brazil 9.4 Canada 9.5 Chile 9.6 Colombia 9.7 Mexico 9.8 Peru 9.9 United States 9.10 Rest of Americas 10 Europe's Ethernet Switch Market 10.1 Introduction 10.2 Austria 10.3 Belgium 10.4 Denmark 10.5 Finland 10.6 France 10.7 Germany 10.8 Italy 10.9 Netherlands 10.10 Norway 10.11 Poland 10.12 Russia 10.13 Spain 10.14 Sweden 10.15 Switzerland 10.16 United Kingdom 10.17 Rest of Europe 11 Middle East and Africa's Ethernet Switch Market 11.1 Introduction 11.2 Egypt 11.3 Israel 11.4 Qatar 11.5 Saudi Arabia 11.6 South Africa 11.7 United Arab Emirates 11.8 Rest of MEA 12 APAC's Ethernet Switch Market 12.1 Introduction 12.2 Australia 12.3 Bangladesh 12.4 China 12.5 India 12.6 Indonesia 12.7 Japan 12.8 Malaysia 12.9 Philippines 12.10 Singapore 12.11 South Korea 12.12 Sri Lanka 12.13 Thailand 12.14 Taiwan 12.15 Rest of Asia-Pacific 13 Competitive Landscape 13.1 Competitive Quadrant 13.2 Market Share Analysis 13.3 Strategic Initiatives 13.3.1 M&A and Investments 13.3.2 Partnerships and Collaborations 13.3.3 Product Developments and Improvements 14 Company Profiles 14.1 Alcatel-Lucent 14.2 Allied Telesis 14.3 Arista 14.4 Brocade Communications Systems 14.5 Cisco Systems 14.6 Dell 14.7 D-Link 14.8 H3c 14.9 Hewlett-Packard 14.10 Huawei 14.11 Juniper Networks 14.12 Trendnet 15 Appendix For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/qt12fb 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 Tombot, Animatronic Tech Venture, Raises Capital to Fulfill Growing Waitlist SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tombot , the innovative hyperrealistic emotional-support robot that looks, feels and behaves much like a real puppy, announced today a limited-time opportunity for US and international individuals to invest as part of a community raise starting September 28, 2022 on Republic a platform for investors seeking high growth potential. Scientifically engineered to treat symptoms of mental illness, Tombot has received extensive coverage by media outlets across the globe, including BBC, Wired, The Oprah Magazine, Forbes. Tombot was selected for TIME Magazine 's prestigious list of "Best Inventions of 2020." Tombot's community has customers and supporters from 86 countries. Tombot Jennie Tombot's mission of creating robotic animals that transform the daily lives of individuals, families, and communities facing mental health adversities is changing the world. Launched in 2017, Tombot aims to be the first robotic animal FDA medical device and safety and health monitoring platform to treat the behavioral, emotional, and psychological symptoms associated with dementia, autism, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. Tombot puppies have been pre-ordered for applications in hospitals, residential facilities, and private homes for people who are unable to care for a live animal. Tombot is providing a rare opportunity for everyday people from around the world to invest in the transformative company for as little as $249. Tombot's market potential for robotic companion animals includes the expansion of the product line to treat up to 1 billion people with serious mental health conditions. Tombot projects shipping more than 200,000 robots by the end of 2026. Their first product is named, "Jennie," a uniquely adorable robot that stimulates emotional attachment. Jennie's features include: Hyper-realistic appearance and textures Patented artistic design by Jim Henson's Creature Shop Creature Shop Patent-pending behaviors that mimic a real puppy Monitoring and feedback for treating Sundowning Syndrome Sensors including touch, sound, voice commands, movement, and light Transforming the lives of people worldwide who face serious mental health adversities, Tombot is raising capital through Republic to achieve the following: Complete Alpha/Beta engineering and testing Finalize supply chain contracts and manufacturing preparations Fulfill the first 2,500 customer orders Achieve $60M in pre-money Series A valuation to scale the business and begin development on our next products Co-Founder and CEO Tom Stevens conceived of Tombot when his mother's Alzheimer's dementia progressed to the point where she could no longer safely care for her dog. Stevens came to realize that robotic animals could help millions of individuals, families and caregivers struggling with dementia and other conditions: "Over one billion people face serious mental health adversities. Since many of these people cannot safely or practically care for a live animal companion, they miss out on the mental and physical health benefits of the human-animal bond. I launched Tombot in 2017 to serve these people," said Stevens. In addition to Stevens, the Tombot leadership team includes Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Hank Schorz, and Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer, Jesse Schorz. Tombot's leadership built a prior startup into one of the world's largest litigation automation companies. They successfully exited that venture through acquisition in 2011. For information on investing with Tombot, visit: republic.com/tombot . For Tombot's website, visit: tombot.com , @tombotrobotics for Instagram, and facebook.com/tombotrobotics for Facebook. About Tombot: Tombot is a social impact company and creator of Jennie the world's first hyper-realistic and affordable robotic animal scientifically designed to treat and monitor people struggling with mental health adversities. Tombot's mission is to create robotic animals that transform the daily lives of individuals, families and communities facing health adversities. Headed by Co-Founder and CEO Tom Stevens, the company is seeking to become the world leader in medical grade robotic animals. About Republic: Republic is a global financial technology company that allows anyone to invest in anything, anywhere. Republic operates several distinct business lines including a retail investment platform, a private capital division, and a blockchain advisory practice. The Republic ecosystem has deployed over $1.5 billion in investments, has supported over 600 companies, and comprises a community of over 2.5M users across 100 countries. Republic is backed by dozens of leading investment firms and financial institutions and its affiliated entities have co-invested with the best names in venture and private equity. Founded in 2016, Republic is headquartered in New York City with offices worldwide. For additional information visit https://group.republic.com and follow @joinrepublic on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter . Jenna Guarneri JMG Public Relations 212-206-1645 [email protected] SOURCE Tombot Parent company of the Toyota Financial Services and Lexus Financial Services brands attributes success to dedicated team members, strong relationships with dealers and effective partnership with Toyota Motor North America PLANO, Texas, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- When thinking of 1982, bright neon clothes, video arcades, early personal computers, VCRs and lively pop music might spring to mind. In this environment, perhaps even wearing iconic '80s outfits and listening to mixtapes, seven Toyota team members began planning a new venture. They were tasked with helping Toyota dealers finance their operations and enabling customers to purchase Toyota vehicles. In October 1982, these seven reached a milestone by establishing the Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC). At the time, they couldn't possibly have known that their tiny operation would grow to be one of the largest financial institutions in the United States that today celebrates 40 years of growth and success. In 1983, just months after launching their venture, the team was ready to finance its first vehicle. It came in the form of a used Toyota Corolla sold by Burt Toyota in Denver, Colorado. From that point forward, the company continued a steady pace of expansion: 1984 TMCC company opens its first branch office in Irvine, California 1985 Dealer wholesale financing is introduced 1986 The company expands its product lineup with the launch of Toyota Motor Insurance Services (TMIS) 1987 Dealer real estate and capital lending programs are introduced 1991 Lexus Financial Services is established 1996 Toyota Credit de Puerto Rico begins operations begins operations 1998 The company enters the digital age with the launch of its first online credit application 1999 Toyota Motor Credit Corporation and Toyota Motor Insurance Services create the umbrella brand Toyota Financial Services (TFS) 2001 The toyotafinancial.com website launches 2002 The lexusfinancial.com site goes live 2004 Partner entity Toyota Financial Savings Bank (TFSB) begins operations 2005 TFSB introduces the Lexus Pursuits Visa credit card 2007 The company grows to over 3,000 team members 2008 Toyota Rewards Visa credit card launches 2012 TMCC celebrates 30 years in business 2013 TMCC issues the auto industry's first Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Bond, demonstrating that Toyota's commitment to diversity and inclusion permeates all aspects of its business 2014 TMCC issues the auto industry's first asset-backed Green Bond 2017 TMCC relocates its headquarters to Plano, Texas , partnering with Toyota Motor North America , partnering with Toyota Motor North America 2018 The company introduces its IncomeDriver Notes retail program for investors 2019 The company rolls out private label financing with Mazda as its first client 2020 Mazda Financial Services begins consumer retail and lease business 2021 The company expands its private label business to Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Now, in October 2022, Toyota Motor Credit Corporation which operates under the brand names of Toyota Financial Services, Lexus Financial Services, Mazda Financial Services, Bass Pro Shops Financial Services and KINTO in the United States enters its 40s with a portfolio of nearly 5 million customer accounts, over 10 million voluntary protection product agreements in force and assets in excess of $135 billion USD. "We'd never have been able to achieve such phenomenal success or longevity without the incredible efforts of all our team members over the years," said Mark Templin, TMCC president and CEO. "Their efforts, coupled with exceptional support from our Toyota, Lexus and private label dealers, as well as our fantastic partners at Toyota Motor North America, have allowed us to thrive. We're looking forward to our next 40 years of supporting dealer needs and helping customers obtain the vehicle of their choice." "Our goal has always been to provide the best possible service in every interaction," said Alec Hagey, senior vice president and chief operating officer. "Our value proposition to dealers is based on enhancing customer loyalty to the brand, and we do that by going the extra mile to keep customers satisfied." As Toyota Motor Credit Corporation has grown, so has its commitment to supporting our communities. The company has received recognition from the Points of Light Foundation, repeatedly being included on the Civic 50 list of the most community-minded organizations in the nation. TMCC has long supported the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Junior Achievement. And, in 2021, it launched the Toyota Leadership Academy, created in partnership with the Lancaster Independent School District in North Texas. The Toyota Leadership Academy prepares students for personal, academic and professional success by providing a specialized curriculum designed to increase high school graduation rates; improve college, career and leadership readiness; and introduce students to job opportunities in the global workforce. "Toyota Motor Credit Corporation isn't just a company we're a group of individuals united by our shared values," said Ellen Farrell, chief legal and compliance officer, and sponsor of the Toyota Leadership Academy program. "We recognize that we only truly attain our full potential when we make a positive impact on those around us. Community involvement has been integral to our organization from the beginning. That's complemented by our commitment to diversity and inclusion as we strive to demonstrate 'Respect for People' in all that we do. These principles will continue to serve as cornerstones as we set our sights on the future." For more information about Toyota Motor Credit Corporation's businesses, please visit: www.toyotafinancial.com www.lexusfinancial.com www.mazdafinancialservices.com www.kinto-us.com About Toyota Motor Credit Corporation Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC) operates in the United States to offer retail auto financing and leasing to customers through auto dealerships. TMCC has a range of products to meet dealers' financing needs and also offers extended service contracts and other vehicle and payment protection products through Toyota Motor Insurance Services (TMIS) and its subsidiaries. TMCC offers its finance and protection products to Toyota and Lexus customers and dealers using the Toyota Financial Services and Lexus Financial Services brand names. Through its private label business, TMCC also offers other finance and protection products under the brands of Mazda Financial Services and Bass Pro Shops Financial Services. As of March 31, 2022, TMCC employed approximately 3,700 team members nationwide, and had assets totaling $135 billion. It is part of a worldwide network of comprehensive financial services offered by Toyota Financial Services Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation. We announce material financial information using the investor relations section of our website (www.toyotafinancial.com) and SEC filings. We use these channels, press releases, and social media to communicate about our company, our services and other issues. While not all information we post on social media is of a material nature, some information could be material. Therefore, we encourage those interested in our company to review our messages on Twitter at www.twitter.com/toyotafinancial and posts on Facebook at www.facebook.com/toyotafinancial/. Media Contact: Derrick Brown (469) 486-9065 SOURCE Toyota Motor Credit Corporation Danielle Conley and Jonathan Su bring tremendous senior government experience to the firm's top-tier White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Latham & Watkins LLP1 is pleased to announce that Danielle Conley has joined, and Jonathan Su has rejoined, the firm's Washington, D.C., office as partners in the White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice and members of the Litigation & Trial Department. Conley and Su recently finished their service as Deputy Counsel to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. in the White House Counsel's Office. They bring high-level government credentials and unparalleled experience across white collar matters. Danielle Conley Jonathan Su "We are thrilled to welcome Danielle and welcome back Jonathan to our team in Washington," said Daniel Lennon, Managing Partner of the firm's Washington, D.C., office. "They have distinguished themselves in government and private practice as pragmatic thinkers and principled advisors with deep intellectual passion. Their substantial knowledge and deep Washington experience uniquely positions them to help clients navigate a host of enforcement and regulatory challenges." As Deputy Counsel to the President, Conley provided strategic advice to senior White House officials on a wide range of policy, legislative, regulatory, litigation, and judicial matters. She established and led the first-ever White House Counsel's Office team dedicated to civil rights and equity issues. Among other high-profile efforts, Conley helped shepherd Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's historic nomination to the US Supreme Court. Conley previously served as Associate Deputy Attorney General at the US Department of Justice (DOJ), where she advised the Deputy Attorney General and other senior government officials on litigation and policy issues and managed some of the Department's most significant and civil rights enforcement matters. Su returns to Latham after serving as Deputy Counsel to the President. In this role, Su had principal responsibility for Congressional oversight and controversy matters at the White House and across the Executive Branch, handling key issues at the top of the news over the past two years. Su also advised senior White House and Executive Branch officials on a broad swath of sensitive and high-profile matters, including risk management, nominations and personnel issues, litigation, and policy. Su previously served as Special Counsel to President Barack Obama and as an Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Maryland, where he conducted 12 jury trials to verdict. In his prior role at Latham, Su served in multiple leadership positions, including as Deputy Managing Partner of the firm's Washington, D.C., office and as Global Chair of the firm's Pro Bono Committee. "We could not be more excited to have Danielle join and Jonathan rejoin Latham," said Michele Johnson, Global Chair of Latham's Litigation & Trial Department. "Danielle is an incredibly thoughtful and savvy strategist with extensive experience handling the most prominent, sensitive legal challenges. She has been battle-tested at the highest levels and has an impeccable reputation for her excellent judgment, crisis management skills, and dedication to clients' long-term success. Jonathan, well-known for his commitment, intellect, and courtroom tenacity, established himself in government and at Latham as a stellar advocate in the most difficult cases. His wealth of experience as a Latham partner, federal prosecutor, and senior White House official firmly positions him to guide our clients through their most pressing matters." Conley brings a sterling track record in private practice, during which she represented companies, boards, and educational institutions in high-stakes government and internal investigations and other multifaceted legal challenges at the intersection of law, government policy, and business. She has significant experience leading sensitive internal investigations following reported allegations of sexual misconduct and discrimination, as well as conducting internal reviews and legal risk assessments on issues pertaining to racial and gender equity. "Danielle's arrival and Jonathan's return significantly bolster our formidable team of white collar lawyers," said Doug Greenburg, Global Chair of the firm's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice. "Danielle has held key roles in some of the White House's and DOJ's highest-profile and complex matters. Combined with her mix of experience, credibility, and authority, she will provide tremendous value to clients in today's regulatory and enforcement environment." As a former partner in Latham's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, Su represented clients in DOJ, US Securities and Exchange Commission, and congressional investigations and conducted internal investigations regarding a wide range of alleged wrongdoing, including corruption, financial irregularities, and sexual misconduct. He also advised senior executives and boards of directors on their strategic response to investigations becoming public. "Jonathan sets himself apart with his substantive skills, unique combination of experience, and passion for representing clients. He has held numerous leadership roles, and he is both a skilled investigator and able trial lawyer," Greenburg said. "Both his and Danielle's invaluable experience also allows them to serve as role models to our rising lawyers." Conley and Su arrive closely after leading trial lawyers Christopher L. Garcia and Raquel Kellert, who joined the firm's market-leading White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice in New York. Conley said, "I look forward to embarking on my career's newest chapter at Latham and fortifying the strength and breadth of the firm's exceptional, global platform. I deeply admire the firm's team-based approach to client service and dedication to pro bono and diversity." Said Su, "I am thrilled to rejoin Latham where I have been fortunate to work with so many talented colleagues and friends, and to once again advise our clients across a wide range of matters in Washington and around the world." Conley received her JD from Howard University Law School and an undergraduate degree from Tulane University. Following her graduation from law school and entry into private practice, she clerked for Judge Rosemary M. Collyer of the US District Court for the District of Columbia. Conley also previously served as a fellow at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. Su received his JD from Georgetown University Law Center and an undergraduate degree from the University of California at Berkeley. After graduation, he clerked for Judge Julian Abele Cook Jr. of the US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and Judge Ronald M. Gould of the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. About Latham & Watkins ( lw.com ) Latham & Watkins delivers innovative solutions to complex legal and business challenges around the world. From a global platform, our lawyers advise clients on market-shaping transactions, high-stakes litigation and trials, and sophisticated regulatory matters. Latham is one of the world's largest providers of pro bono services, steadfastly supports initiatives designed to advance diversity within the firm and the legal profession, and is committed to exploring and promoting environmental sustainability. Notes to Editors 1Latham & Watkins operates worldwide as a limited liability partnership organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (USA) with affiliated limited liability partnerships conducting the practice in France, Hong Kong, Italy, Singapore, and the United Kingdom and as an affiliated partnership conducting the practice in Japan. Latham & Watkins operates in Israel through a limited liability company. Latham & Watkins operates in South Korea as a Foreign Legal Consultant Office. Latham & Watkins works in cooperation with the Law Firm of Salman M. Al-Sudairi, a limited liability company, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Contacts Daniel Lennon, Washington, D.C., Office Managing Partner, +1.202.637.2200 Michele Johnson, Global Litigation & Trial Department Chair, +1.714.755.8113 Doug Greenburg, Global White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice Chair, +1.202.637.1093 SOURCE Latham & Watkins The move enlarges the firm's footprint in Northeast Florida, welcomes over 400 agents to the United network and accelerates national growth DALLAS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- United Real Estate (United) announced today that a Jacksonville-based brokerage has joined United's national network in a merger. The firm (formerly affiliated with a different national brokerage) will operate as United Real Estate Gallery moving forward and retain all leadership. "The entire United team has worked diligently for over a decade to build a program that now attracts top operators." Tweet this United Real Estate announces Jacksonville, FL merger, welcomes 400 agents to national network The partnership brings together the seventh largest national real estate brokerage operation in the U.S. and a prominent brokerage celebrating fifteen years in business. United Real Estate Gallery is currently a top 10 market share leader with 400 agents and eight locations throughout Northeast Florida. Through this new alliance, United Real Estate Gallery agents have access to a suite of innovative marketing tools, 100% agent compensation, virtual client services and a proprietary, cloud-based productivity platform Bullseye at no additional cost to them or their clients. Agents also receive a financial gain in compensation and opportunities to grow their income with other financial incentives with the merger. "We wanted to grow faster and provide resources for our agents to compete in any market. After an extensive period of due diligence considering many paths forward, we determined United is THE forward-thinking partner who will help us achieve our goals. They are high-energy, quick-moving and sharp. They recognize our team's talent, have the resources required to make the investments in our business to drive agent outcomes and are eager to help," stated United Real Estate Gallery Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Rivera. "Our industry is changing, and United has the solution to allow agents to keep more earnings, gain more control over their expenses and compete more effectively in any market." United's fifth merger of 2022 is a catalyst for its expansion throughout Florida and the U.S. The global network now includes more than 21,000 agents and 630 offices. United Real Estate Group is a six-time Inc. 5000 company, among the top 0.01% of America's private companies. It is nationally recognized for its influential leaders, growth and technology innovation. In the new release of its proprietary cloud-based Agent Productivity Platform - Bullseye this year, United gained the ability to deploy its entire suite of agent tools, technology, resources and training to companies merging or affiliating with its national network instantly. "The entire United team has worked diligently for over a decade to build a program that now attracts top operators like Ray, Sonny, Nanci and their team of professional agents as they look to build on their past successes and capture future opportunities. Being selected as their 'go forward' partner is humbling, especially after we discovered how many options they considered when evaluating potential partners and paths," stated United Real Estate Group Chief Executive Officer, Dan Duffy. "We are super excited and energized about our collective opportunity and are really enjoying working with the Gallery Team." "Ray, Sonny and Nanci have built a great company, and we are so pleased to be chosen to help their firm reach new heights. The additional brokerage, agent and consumer-facing services, to which they now have access, amplify their value proposition tremendously and create a net financial gain for their 400 agents," stated United Real Estate President, Rick Haase. "Best of all, this leadership team will continue to drive all local decisions and influence our company at a national level. We will learn as much from them as they will from us, and that's essential to our strategy for smart growth." The alliance complements United's existing offices in Jacksonville, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers and Orlando, and follows mergers with Pearson Smith Realty, Platinum Realty, Leading Edge Real Estate Group, Texas United Realty, Virtual Properties Realty, Benchmark Realty, Charles Rutenberg Realty Fort Lauderdale and others yet to be announced. To learn more about United Real Estate, brokerage succession planning, brokerage valuation and sale or franchising opportunities, visit GrowWithUnited.com or call 888-960-0606. Agents interested in learning about career opportunities with United Real Estate can visit JoinUnitedRealEstate.com or call 888-960-0606. Agents interested in Joining United Real Estate Gallery can visit JoinUnitedGallery.com or email [email protected]. About United Real Estate United Real Estate (United) a division of United Real Estate Group was founded with the purpose of offering solutions to real estate brokers and agents in the rapidly changing real estate brokerage industry. United provides the latest training, marketing and technology tools to agents and brokers under a flat-fee, transaction-based agent commission model. By leveraging the company's proprietary cloud-based Bullseye Agent & Broker Productivity Platform, United delivers a more profitable outcome for agents and brokers. United Real Estate operates in 32 states with 140 offices and more than 17,500 agents. The company produced over $21.5 billion in sales volume in 2021. About United Real Estate | Gallery United Real Estate Gallery was founded in 2007 by Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Rivera; President, Sonny Downey; and Vice President of Operations, Nanci Soriano. The firm is a full-service brokerage serving Jacksonville and Northeast Florida with 400 agents and eight locations. United Real Estate Gallery provides professional representation for buyers and sellers of residential properties with the goal of achieving excellence in client service and sales results. About United Real Estate Group United Real Estate Group (UREG) operates United Real Estate and United Country Real Estate, addressing the unique market needs of suburban, major metropolitan urban and rural markets. Utilizing the cloud-based Bullseye Agent & Broker Productivity Platform, UREG offers the latest training, marketing and technology tools producing a significant competitive advantage. The platform realizes a decade-long investment in virtual agent and brokerage technology services and is powered by a 2.1 million listings data warehouse generating over 3 million monthly visitors and 30,000 leads per year. Together, the United Real Estate Group supports more than 630 offices and over 21,000 real estate and auction professionals across four continents. United Real Estate Group produced over $27.1 billion in 2021. Through its in-house advertising agency, UREG offers differentiating marketing support and collateral for specialized lifestyle property websites as well as access to a 650,000+ opt-in buyer database. For more information about United Real Estate or United Country Real Estate, please visit UnitedRealEstate.com or UnitedCountry.com. For More Information: April Gonzalez, Media & Investor Relations [email protected] 214-277-9830 SOURCE United Real Estate DUBLIN, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Security Manual Template - 2022 Premium Edition" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Policy and Procedure Manual Compliance Management Made Easy California Consumer Privacy Act/GDPR/ISO/HIPAA/SOX/CobiT/FIPS Compliant/WFH Includes 28 Electronic Forms that are ready to use and User Bill of Rights for Sensitive Data and Privacy The Security Manual Template - ISO Compliant includes a 22 page Excel Security Audit Program and 22 full job descriptions in WORD and PDF formats. The jobs are: Chief Compliance Officer (CCO); Chief Security Officer (CSO); VP Strategy and Architecture; Data Protection Officer (DPO); Director e-Commerce; Database Administrator; Data Security Administrator; Manager Data Security; Manager Facilities and Equipment; Manager Network and Computing Services; Manager Network Services; Manager Training and Documentation; Manager Voice and Data Communication; Manager Wireless Systems; Network Security Analyst; System Administrator - Unix; and System Administrator - Windows. Many organizations fail to realize the benefits of security information management due to the often exhaustive financial and human resource costs of implementing and maintaining the software. However, Janco's Security Manual Template - the industry standard - provides the infrastructure tools to manage security, make smarter security decisions and respond faster to security incidents and compliance requests within days of implementation. The template provides a framework for evaluating SIM services and shows how they could be applied within your organization. Address issues like Work From Home (WFH) operational requirements, Identify Protection and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management). It is the complete must-have tool. Security incidents are rising at an alarming rate every year. As the complexity of the threats increases, so do the security measures required to protect networks and critical enterprise data. CIOs, Data center operators, network administrators, and other IT professionals need to comprehend the basics of security in order to safely deploy and manage data and networks. Securing a typical business network and IT infrastructure demands an end-to-end approach with a firm grasp of vulnerabilities and associated protective measures. While such knowledge cannot stop all attempts at network incursion or system attack, it can empower IT professionals to eliminate general problems, greatly reduce potential damages, and quickly detect breaches. With the ever-increasing number and complexity of attacks, vigilant approaches to security in both large and small enterprises are a must. The Security Manual Template meets that requirement. Comprehensive, Detailed, and Customizable The Security Manual is over 240 pages in length. All versions of the Security Manual Template include both the Business IT Impact Questionnaire and the Threat Vulnerability Assessment Tool (they were redesigned to address Sarbanes Oxley compliance). In addition, the Security Manual Template PREMIUM Edition contains 16 detailed job descriptions that apply specifically to security and Sarbanes Oxley, ISO security domains, ISO 27000 (ISO27001 and ISO27002), PCI-DSS, HIPAA, FIPS 199, and CobiT. Electronic Forms Application & File Server Inventory Blog Policy Compliance Agreement BYOD Access and Use Agreement Company Asset Employee Control Log Email Employee Agreement Employee Termination Procedures and Checklist FIPS 199 Assessment Internet Access Request Form Internet and Electronic Communication Employee Agreement Internet use Approval Mobile Device Access and Use Agreement Mobile Device Security and Compliance Checklist New Employee Security Acknowledgment and Release Outsourcing and Cloud Security Compliance Agreement Outsourcing Security Compliance Agreement Preliminary Security Audit Checklist Privacy Compliance Policy Acceptance Agreement Risk Assessment (pdf & docx) Security Access Application Security Audit Report Security Violation Procedures Sensitive Information Policy Compliance Agreement Server Registration Social networking Policy Compliance Agreement Telecommuting Work Agreement Text Messaging Sensitive Information Agreement Threat and Vulnerability Assessment Inventory Work From Home Work Agreement Key Topics Covered: 1. Security - Introduction Scope Objective Applicability Best Practices WFH Operational Rules Web Site Security Flaws ISO 27000 Compliance Process Security General Policy Responsibilities 2. Minimum and Mandated Security Standard Requirements ISO Security Domains ISO 27000 Gramm-Leach-Bliley (Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999. FTC Information Safeguards. Federal Information Processing Standard - FIPS 199. NIST SP 800-53 Sarbanes-Oxley Act California SB 1386 Personal Information Privacy California Consumer Privacy Act - 2018 Massachusetts 201 CMR 17.00 Data Protection Requirements 201 CMR 17.00 Data Protection Requirements What Google and Other 3rd Parties Know Internet Security Myths 3. Vulnerability Analysis and Threat Assessment Threat and Vulnerability Assessment Tool Evaluate Risk 4. Risk Analysis - IT Applications and Functions Objective Roles and Responsibilities Program Requirements Frequency Relationship to Effective Security Design Selection of Safeguards Requests for Waiver Program Basic Elements 5. Staff Member Roles Basic Policies Security - Responsibilities. Determining Sensitive Internet and Information Technology Systems Positions Personnel Practices Education and Training Contractor Personnel 6. Physical Security Information Processing Area Classification. Classification Categories Access Control Levels of Access Authority Access Control Requirements by Category. Implementation Requirements Protection of Supporting Utilities 7. Facility Design, Construction, and Operational Considerations Building Location External Characteristics Location of Information Processing Areas Construction Standards Water Damage Protection Air Conditioning Entrances and Exits. Interior Furnishings Fire Electrical Air Conditioning Remote Internet and Information Technology Workstations Lost Equipment Training, Drills, Maintenance, and Testing 8. Media and Documentation Data Storage and Media Protection Documentation 10. Data and Software Security Resources to Be Protected Classification Rights Access Control Internet/Intranet/Terminal Access/Wireless Access Spyware Wireless Security Standards Logging and Audit Trail Requirements Satisfactory Compliance. Violation Reporting and Follow-Up 11. Internet and Information Technology Contingency Planning Responsibilities Information Technology Contingency Planning Documentation Contingency Plan Activation and Recovery Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity and Security Basics 12. Insurance Requirements Objectives Responsibilities Filing a Proof of Loss Risk Analysis Program Purchased Equipment and Systems Leased Equipment and Systems Media Business Interruption. Staff Member Dishonesty Errors and Omissions 13. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Best Practices for SIEM KPI Metrics for SIEM 14. Identity Protection Identifying Relevant Red Flags Preventing and Mitigating Identity Theft. Updating the Program Methods for Administering the Program 15. Ransomware - HIPAA Guidance Required response 16. Outsourced Services Responsibilities Outside Service Providers - Including Cloud 17. Waiver Procedures Purpose and Scope Policy Definition Responsibilities Procedure 18. Incident Reporting Procedure Purpose & Scope Definitions Responsibilities Procedure Analysis/Evaluation 19. Access Control Guidelines Purpose & Scope Objectives Definitions of Access Control Zones Responsibilities Badge Issuance Appendix - A Attached Job Descriptions Chief Security Officer (CSO) Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) Data Protection Officer Manager Security and Workstation Manager WFH support Security Architect System Administrator Attached Policies Blog and Personal Website Policy Internet, Email, Social Networking, Mobile Device, and Electronic Communication Policy Mobile Device Policy Physical and Virtual File Server Security Policy Sensitive Information Policy - Credit Card, Social Security, Employee, and Customer Data Travel and Off-Site Meeting Policy Attached Security Forms Application & File Server Inventory Blog Policy Compliance Agreement BYOD Access and Use Agreement Company Asset Employee Control Log Email Employee Agreement Employee Termination Procedures and Checklist FIPS 199 Assessment Internet Access Request Form Internet and Electronic Communication Employee Agreement Internet use Approval Mobile Device Access and Use Agreement Mobile Device Security and Compliance Checklist New Employee Security Acknowledgment and Release Outsourcing and Cloud Security Compliance Agreement Outsourcing Security Compliance Agreement Preliminary Security Audit Checklist Privacy Compliance Policy Acceptance Agreement Risk Assessment Security Access Application Security Audit Report Security Violation Procedures Sensitive Information Policy Compliance Agreement Server Registration Social networking Policy Compliance Agreement Telecommuting Work Agreement Text Messaging Sensitive Information Agreement Threat and Vulnerability Assessment Inventory Work From Home Work Agreement Additional Attached Materials Business and IT Impact Questionnaire Threat and Vulnerability Assessment Tool Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Check List Excel Spreadsheet Appendix - B Practical Tips for Prevention of Security Breaches and PCI Audit Failure Risk Assessment Process Employee Termination Process Security Management Compliance Checklist Massachusetts 201 CMR 17 Compliance Checklist 201 CMR 17 Compliance Checklist User/Customer Sensitive Information and Privacy Bill of Rights General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) - Checklist HIPAA Audit Program Guide ISO 27000 Security Process Audit Checklist Firewall Security Requirements Firewall Security Policy Checklist BYOD and Mobile Content Best of Breed Security Checklist For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/47lwjs 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 NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest report published by Growth Plus Reports, the global Urinary Drainage Bags Market is expected to clock US$ 2.86 billion by 2030 and to grow at a CAGR of 4.74% during the forecast period. This exclusive information is published by Growth Plus Reports in its report titled "Urinary Drainage Bags Market Global Outlook & Forecast 2022-2030" The prevalence of urology-related diseases, such as urinary retention, cystitis, benign prostatic, urine incontinence, etc., is constantly rising. Consequently, there is an increased demand for urinary drainage bags, thus boosting market growth. The increasing geriatric population prone to urinary disorders are preferring the use of urinary drainage bags as these are quite economical and convenient to use. Additionally, the increase in hospital admissions for the treatment of chronic diseases has enhanced the demand for products that provide effective patient care throughout the hospital stay. Download Free Sample Report Now @ https://growthplusreports.com/inquiry/request-sample/urinary-drainage-bags-market/7833 Excerpts from 'by Product' The global market for urinary drainage bags on the basis of products is grouped into: Leg Bags Large Bags The leg bag segment holds the majority of market share, attributed to factors that the leg bags allow free movements and are convenient to use. Additionally, leg bags are available in a variety of forms, which allows the patient to choose the product suitable to their need. Furthermore, the large drainage bags segment is anticipated to show lucrative growth in the forecast as majority of it use is in hospital and healthcare units. Excerpts from 'by usage' According to usage, the global urinary bags market is bifurcated into: Disposable Reusable Segments The disposable segment has dominated the market, mainly due to high demand for patient care in hospitals and stationary healthcare settings. Additionally, the disposable bags segment is anticipated to grow further in the forecast period due to their affordability, and lower risk of infection transmissions. Excerpts from 'by Capacity' The urinary drainage bags market is divided into two segments based on capacity: 0-500 ml 500-1000 ml Others The market has been dominated by 500-1000 ml bags. The 500-1000 ml drainage bags are most frequently preferred by healthcare professionals and patients. Additionally, this segment will continue to gain market revenue in the projected period due to its high-volume holding quality. Inquiry Before Buying: https://growthplusreports.com/inquiry/before-buying/urinary-drainage-bags-market/7833 Excerpts from 'By Region' The global urinary drainage bags market has been divided into four regions: North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the world North America holds the majority of market revenue share. The factors owing to this growth are presence of major market players, high rate of hospitalization, increased trend of home and hospice care for chronically ill and geriatric populations, advanced medical facilities, and high healthcare expenditure. The European region is characterized by huge number of geriatric populations suffering from incontinence, favorable reimbursements, high awareness to name a few. Furthermore, The National Health Service and the European Union of Medical Associations both assist in maintaining the financial load on patients. Asia Pacific is expected to witness prominent growth during the projection period because of an increase in the prevalence of urinary tract infections, urinary tract cancers, and hospitalizations for chronic disease treatments. The region is also supported by greater awareness for incontinence care in the general population. Excerpts from 'Competitive Landscape' Some of the prominent players operating in the urinary drainage bags market are Cardinal Health, Inc ConvaTec Inc Coloplast A/S McKesson Medical-Surgical Inc Amsino International, Inc Flexicare Medical Limited Medline Industries, Inc Teleflex Incorporated BD (C.R. Bard), Inc Flexicare Medical Ltd Manfred Sauer GmbH Table of Content INTRODUCTION Market Ecosystem Timeline Under Consideration Base Year 2021 Historical Years 2020 Forecasted Years 2022 to 2030 Currency Used in the Report RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Research Approach Data Collection Methodology Data Sources Secondary Sources Primary Sources Market Estimation Approach Bottom Up Top Down Market Forecasting Model Limitations and Assumptions PREMIUM INSIGHTS Current Market Trends (COVID-19 Perspective) Key Players & Competitive Positioning (2021) MARKET DYNAMICS Drivers Restraints Opportunities GLOBAL URINARY DRAINAGE BAGS MARKET - ANALYSIS & FORECAST, BY PRODUCT Large Bags Leg Bags GLOBAL URINARY DRAINAGE BAGS MARKET - ANALYSIS & FORECAST, BY USAGE Disposable Reusable GLOBAL URINARY DRAINAGE BAGS MARKET - ANALYSIS & FORECAST, BY CAPACITY 0-500 MI 500-1000 MI Others VALUE PROPOSITIONS RELATED TO THE REPORT: Powered with Complimentary Analyst Hours and Expert Interviews with Each Report Comprehensive quantitative and qualitative insights at segment and sub-segment level Covid 19 impact trends and perspective Granular insights at global/regional/country level Deep-rooted insights on market dynamics (drivers, restraints, opportunities) and business environment Blanket coverage on competitive landscape Winning imperatives Exhaustive coverage on 'Strategic Developments' registered by leading players of the market CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS: Distributor Landscape Assessment Pricing Intelligence Customer Base Assessment Investment & Initiatives Analysis 'Business Profile' of Key Players Directly Purchase Premium Copy of Urinary Drainage Bags Market Growth Report (2022-2030) at: https://growthplusreports.com/checkout?_token=s4ozqdSw5KYeuPEQEClAMmFfLIFY1zvNzvx8jkvB&report_id=7833&license=Single About Us: Growth+Reports is part of GRG Health, a global healthcare knowledge service company. We are proud members of EPhMRA (European Pharmaceutical Marketing Research Association). Growth+ portfolio of services draws on our core capabilities of secondary & primary research, market modelling & forecasting, benchmarking, analysis and strategy formulation to help clients create scalable, ground-breaking solutions that prepare them for future growth and success. We were awarded by the prestigious CEO Magazine as "Most Innovative Healthcare Market Research Company in 2020. Contact: Manan Sethi Director, Market Insights Email: [email protected] Phone no: +91 96545 76783 Web: https://growthplusreports.com/ Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1671244/Growth_Plus_Reports_Logo.jpg SOURCE Growth Plus Reports WEST CHESTER, Pa., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Venerable Holdings, Inc. ("Venerable"), the leader in providing innovative risk transfer solutions to variable annuity issuers, is pleased to announce the completion of a reinsurance transaction with Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE: MFC) ("Manulife"). The transaction involves the reinsurance of a block of New York variable annuity business from Manulife's subsidiary John Hancock Life Insurance Company of New York ("John Hancock") and complements the reinsurance transaction that closed between the two parties earlier this year. "We are very pleased to partner with Manulife on this latest transaction and highly value the relationship between the two organizations," said David Marcinek, Chairman of Venerable. "Being able to bring this deal to completion during this period of uncertain markets is a testament to the strength and skill of both parties." The transaction involves the 80% quota share reinsurance of approximately $1.6bn of account value (as of August 31, 2022), and primarily comprises policies with guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit (GMWB) riders, issued between 2003 and 2012. A small block of policies with only guaranteed minimum death benefit (GMDB) riders is also included. John Hancock will continue to administer the policies. Sidley Austin LLP is serving as legal counsel to Venerable in connection with this transaction. About Venerable Venerable is a privately held company with business operations based in West Chester, Pennsylvania and Des Moines, Iowa. Venerable owns and manages legacy variable annuity business acquired from other entities. Created by an investor group led by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, LLC, Crestview Partners, Reverence Capital Partners, and Athene Holdings, Ltd., Venerable is a business with well-established, strategic investors, experienced in successfully building and growing insurance businesses with patient, long-term capital. For more information, please visit www.venerable.com. Contact: Venerable Allison Proud Corporate Communications +(610) 249-9730 SOURCE Venerable MIAMI, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- VERVE Medical Cosmetics is celebrating the opening of its fifth location nationwide in Miami, Florida. VERVE Medical Cosmetics, New York's premier non-surgical aesthetic and anti-aging treatment studio, was founded by expert cosmetic injector, Dr. Stephen Bracci in 2000. VERVE Medical Cosmetics, one of the only advanced-level solo physician practices in the country, has four existing locations in the Northeast, in New York City, Westchester, Long Island and New Jersey. VERVE Medical Cosmetics focuses only on non-surgical cosmetic injectables, such as non-surgical facelifts and eye bag removal. Dr. Stephen Bracci's pioneering techniques and immediate natural-looking results will now be available in Miami. Dr. Bracci says, "this opening is long overdue. We've received many requests for an opening in the Miami area and we're glad it's finally happening. We have a beautiful location in Downtown Brickell and we're so excited to be offering our cutting-edge non-surgical techniques to our friends down south." Inspired by the artistic streets of Wynwood and the stunning MiMo architecture, VERVE Miami fuses Dr. Bracci's unparalleled technique of non-surgical aesthetic medicine with his artistic facial sculpting expertise. The newest VERVE creative studio offers a range of treatments and services including Dr. Bracci's revolutionary and trademarked treatments, EyeRise and BaseLift. These two non-surgical treatments are performed exclusively by Dr. Bracci to restore structure to the face using a customized combination of cosmetic fillers and Dr. Bracci's artistry, resulting in the best, most natural looking results. VERVE Miami features a welcoming, luxurious, modern space with picturesque downtown views. VERVE Miami blends Miami's historic art scene with Dr. Bracci's artful hand VERVE Miami is where art meets beauty. This convenient location also provides complimentary valet parking to all VERVE's guests. VERVE Miami is offering a celebratory launch offer of $250 Off One Syringe of Dermal Filler and $12/unit of Botox or Xeomin (minimum purchase 60 units), valid one per customer and ends December 23, 2022. VERVE Miami is located at: VERVE Miami Infinity Brickell 40 SW 13th Street, Suite 203 Miami, FL 33130 305-600-1119 About Dr. Stephen Bracci Dr. Stephen Bracci specializes and dedicates his practice solely to the use of non-surgical cosmetic filler, known for his injection techniques and ability to produce natural-looking results for his patients. Dr. Bracci focuses on the entire face and restoring the skin to its original structure and glow, leaving the patient looking rested and more youthful. Combining his extensive experience, the latest technology, and his artful hand leads to satisfying results. A pioneer in the field, Dr. Bracci has trademarked several non-surgical techniques, including Baselift, the non-surgical facelift, and EyeRise for the under-eye area. Contact: Christina Melander Public Relations [email protected] SOURCE VERVE Medical Cosmetics ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Viterra Limited, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, is pleased to announce that effective today it has closed its stock purchase agreement to acquire the grain and ingredients business of Gavilon Agriculture Investment, Inc. (Gavilon), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marubeni America Corporation. The purchase price for the acquisition is US $1.125 billion, plus working capital, and is subject to certain price adjustments. Gavilon, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, originates, stores and distributes grains and oilseeds, as well as feed and food ingredients to domestic and global markets. Gavilon's assets are in major growing areas across the US, with access to major railroads, rivers and ports. "Gavilon's business has all the key attributes that support our long-term strategic plan, and allows us to provide additional value to our customers at origination and destination," said David Mattiske, Chief Executive Officer of Viterra Limited. "This acquisition further strengthens our global network by providing us with a material presence in every major exporting region and makes us one of the largest origination businesses in our industry." Mattiske further added, "It gives me great pleasure to welcome Gavilon's employees to the Viterra team. I look forward to a smooth integration as we work together to generate further opportunities for our employees and customers, while creating added value for our shareholders and investors." Effective immediately, Viterra will integrate Gavilon into its global network and in early 2023 will implement the Viterra brand across the business. About Viterra At Viterra, we believe in the power of connection. Our world-leading, fully integrated agriculture network connects producers to consumers with sustainable, traceable and quality-controlled agricultural products. With more than 18,000 talented employees operating in 37 countries, our strategic network of agricultural storage, processing and transport assets enable us to offer innovative solutions and open pathways for our customers, creating successful partnerships that last. Together, we are stronger, and achieve more. IMPORTANT NOTICE CONCERNING THIS RELEASE INCLUDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS. This release contains, or incorporates by reference, statements that are, or may be deemed to be, "forward-looking statements", which are prospective in nature. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current predictions, expectations, beliefs, opinions, plans, objectives, goals, commitments, intentions and projections about future events, results of operations, prospects, financial condition and discussions of strategy. Forward-looking statements can be made in writing but also may be made verbally. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Viterra or its subsidiaries. Forward- looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and may, and often do, differ materially from actual results. Neither Viterra nor its subsidiaries, nor any of their associates, directors, officers, employees or advisers, provides any representation, warranty, assurance or guarantee that the occurrence of any actions, events or results expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements in this release will actually be taken, occur or be achieved. You should not place, and are cautioned against placing, reliance on these forward-looking statements, which only speak as of the date of this release or of the date of the particular statement (as applicable). Nothing in this release shall, in any jurisdiction, constitute or form part of any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for any securities or financial instruments, nor shall it constitute a recommendation or advice in respect of any securities or other financial instruments or any other matter. SOURCE Viterra Inc. NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivera invites congress members combatting the opioid crisis to discuss response and prevention solutions. A recently released congressional Joint Economic Committee (JEC) report estimates that opioid addiction has cost the United States nearly $1.5 trillion in 2020indicating a 37% increase since 2017. According to the JEC report, the pandemic is responsible for much of the increase, with the dual factors of healthcare disruption and increased socioeconomic stress worsening addiction rates. "It's time to put our resources into the opioid crisis." - Paul Edalat Tweet this Maryland U.S. Representative David Trone, who sits on the JEC, has experienced coping with the devastating effects of the addiction and overdose crisis, as he lost his beloved nephew to an opioid overdose. Mr. Trone attributes his nephew's death to being the catalyst for his self-education and personal involvement in the fight against addiction and the mental health component that often coexists. In a recent JEC Joint Economic Committee press release, Mr. Trone stated, "It has become abundantly clear that the opioid epidemic is not only a health crisis but also an economic and national security one. With the epidemic now taking a $1.5 trillion annual toll on our economy, our nation is more vulnerable than ever due to inaction. Over the last two years, the nation has rallied behind a common cause, investing trillions of dollars into research, treatment, and prevention to find a cure for COVID-19. Now, it's time to do the same for the opioid epidemic. With incalculable human cost and a staggering economic impact, this epidemic deserves urgent, collective action on a national scale." Stories like Mr. Trone's hit close to home for Chairman and CEO of Vivera Paul Edalat, who lost his brother to the effects of opioids. Mr. Edalat's brother Peter was only 29 years old when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Peter's doctor prescribed him high doses of opioids to help manage pain and side effects from chemotherapy, and just two years after his diagnosis, he passed away. Mr. Edalat expressed that while it was difficult to watch his younger brother battle cancer, it was even more difficult for him to watch him struggle with addiction. To leaders like Mr. Trone and Mr. Edalat, the opioid crisis is personal. Witnessing loved ones lose their lives to addiction has become the driving force behind their missions to prevent the loss of even more lives to opioid addiction. To honor his brother's legacy, Mr. Edalat co-invented ZICOH, Vivera's intelligent, dose-controlled prescription medication delivery device designed to prevent prescription medication misuse and diversion. "It is truly admirable what Mr. Trone has accomplished when it comes to the opioid crisis," said Mr. Edalat. "And I completely agree; when the pandemic hit, we invested much of our resources into COVID and implemented real solutions in record time. The opioid crisis has been going on for decades, and we have not made nearly as much progress. It's time to put our resources into the opioid crisis. I would love the opportunity to connect with Mr. Trone and other leaders to discuss how we can begin to make real change." Stories like this are becoming far too common. It's estimated that over one million Americans have died from a drug overdose. It's time to start implementing real solutions, and to Vivera, that begins with ZICOH. About Vivera Pharmaceuticals Vivera Pharmaceuticals is an innovative, science-driven pharmaceutical company located in Southern California. The Company has global exclusivity to license the patented and patent-pending TABMELT sublingual drug delivery system for pharmaceutical use and holds its own issued patents on ZICOH, a smart dose-controlled electronic medical device. The Company has also received a Notice of Allowance for its portable telemedicine station, MDZone. With multiple divisions, including its pharmaceutical, neurosciences, medical technology, biosciences, and advanced diagnostics divisions, Vivera Pharmaceuticals is vertically integrated with patented technology, manufacturing capabilities, and distribution for its products. For more information, please visit viverapharmaceuticals.com or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Contact: Ashley LeVine [email protected] SOURCE Vivera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Minnesota law is different than many other states says Tyroler Leonard Injury Law MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --If you have lost a loved one in a tragic event caused by someone else's negligence, an immediate family member can initiate a wrongful death claim. Whether the death was caused by a car accident, work accident, or other catastrophic event, a wrongful death lawsuit enables you to recover financial damages to compensate for your loss. However, Minnesota law requires a surviving spouse or next of kin to petition a judge to appoint a trustee who will then file a lawsuit on the family's behalf. The trustee will also oversee the distribution of damages in a successful wrongful death action. (Minn. Stat. 573.02 (2021).) Only the trustee can file the suit, not family members themselves. Family members requesting a trustee can include the spouse, children, parents, siblings, and grandparents of the person who died. Statute of Limitations The statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim in Minnesota is three years from the date of the death so long as it has not been more than six years from the negligent act causing the death. Exceptions exist when the wrongful death was caused by a medical professional or in the case of murder. For medical negligence, a wrongful death lawsuit must be commenced within three years of the date of death, but must be within four years of the date of the negligent act. There is no statute of limitations for murder. Why Choose Us Choosing the right Minneapolis wrongful death lawyer is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Attorneys Isaac Tyroler and Rachel Sperling Leonard are outstanding. They express compassion and understanding for every client, many of whom have been through tragic experiences. They take each case personally and are entirely focused on getting our clients the justice they deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 651-259-1113. The law firm has offices in Oakdale and Minneapolis, and represent the entire spectrum of personal injury clients including car accident, dog attack, slip and fall, and work injuries. They have achieved outstanding case results. This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com. SOURCE Tyroler Leonard Injury Law Company Accelerates Mission By Enhancing AI-Powered Translation Platform With Cvent Integration and 6 Additional Language Options LONDON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wordly , the leading provider of AI-powered translation services, announced a major adoption achievement for its translation platform exceeding 200 million minutes of live translation - making it the first SaaS solution designed for meetings and events to reach this milestone. The company also expanded their platform with an integration to Cvent and 6 additional languages translation options. The new features are part of the company's mission to make it easy and affordable for organizations of all sizes to bridge the global language gap and make meetings more accessible for everyone. Translation Milestone Launched in 2019, the Wordly translation platform provides real-time translation into 25 languages for over 600 global customers and 1 Million Users in technology, professional services, healthcare, manufacturing, media, non-profit, and local government markets. The company has powered over 200 Million Minutes of translation at more than 30,000 conferences, webinars, meetings, and training sessions in the past 3 years. According to benchmark research conducted by Dimensional Research, 72% of meeting and event planners expect to see an increase in the frequency of multilingual meetings and events - and 76% report they are increasing their use of translation in order to increase attendee inclusion and engagement as well as event attendance and attendee satisfaction. "The research shows there is strong demand for flexible ways to offer live translation and Wordly is filling the gap with our easy to use, on-demand solution," said Dave Deasy, Wordly CMO and author of the translation usage research report. "We believe the key to bridging the multilingual meeting language gap is making it easy and affordable for organizations of all sizes to offer live translation and support their DEI initiatives." Cvent Integration and Cvent CONNECT Europe Wordly is now integrated with the Cvent event management platform, enabling Cvent customers to access live translation and captions in 25 languages directly within the Attendee Hub. In-person event attendees can access the translation by scanning a QR code on their phone and virtual attendees can join via their Cvent session. Wordly is also the Official Translation Provider for the Cvent CONNECT Europe event taking place in London October 4-6 and will be featured in the Supplier Lounge at the conference. Both in-person and virtual attendees will be able to experience live translation during the conference. Other Integrations In addition to Cvent, Wordly works alongside dozens of other event management, video conferencing, and webinar platforms. To see a complete list, visit the Partner Directory . 6 Additional Translation Languages Six new language options are now available. There are 5 new input languages (Czech, Indonesian, Romanian, Thai, Vietnamese) and 1 new output language (Turkish). The platform provides live meeting translation into both audio and captions for 25 languages, including the top 10 international business languages; and supports multi-directional translation (for example, English to French, French to Spanish, Spanish to Japanese), offering over 400 language pair options. Both speakers and attendees select their preferred language from a drop-down menu creating a personalized and inclusive experience for everybody. The Cvent integration and additional languages are all available immediately by contacting your Wordly or Cvent account representative. About Wordly Wordly provides next-generation AI-powered translation and interpretation solutions. The Wordly platform provides remote, real-time, simultaneous interpretation without the use of human interpreters - making it faster, easier, and more affordable to collaborate across multiple languages at once and make meetings and events more inclusive and engaging. Wordly enables organizations to unlock the potential of their multilingual teams and global markets by removing language barriers at in-person and virtual sessions. Wordly is used by over 600 businesses, associations, organizations, and government entities around the world. For more information, visit www.wordly.ai . SOURCE Wordly Bhadohi, Oct 3 : A 12-year-old boy was killed and at least 52 people were injured after a fire broke out at a Durga Puja pandal in Aurai town of Uttar Pradesh's Bhadohi district, late on Sunday night. The deceased was identified as Ankush Soni. Of the 52 persons, 22 suffered severe burn injuries and have been taken to Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Trauma Centre in Varanasi. They are believed to be in a critical condition, the officials said. Bhadohi district magistrate Gaurang Rathi said prima facie, a short circuit appeared to be cause of the fire. The incident took place in a pandal near Aurai Police station. "An incident took place at the time of 'aarti' (prayers), which was the peak time. There were around 150 people inside the pandal. Over 30 people suffered burn injuries after which some were rushed to Surya Trauma Centre, Community Health Centre, Gopiganj and Anand hospital," the official said. "While a short circuit appears to be the main cause of the fire, we are waiting a confirmation from our technical team, which is investigating the case", he said. Varanasi police commissioner A. Satish Ganesh said: "Soon after getting information that the victims are being brought to BHU Trauma centre, we created a Green Corridor to ensure hassle-free transportation of the victims." Fatehpur, Oct 3 : In a shocking incident, a 50-year-old man, playing the role of Hanuman in a Ramlila, died on stage during his performance in Salempur village of Uttar Pradesh's Fatehpur district. Ram Swaroop, suffered a heart attack during his performance and died on Saturday night. The video of the incident has gone viral on social media. "During Ramlila's presentation, soon after the tail of Hanuman was set afire, Ram Swaroop, who was playing the character, slumped to the ground and died within a minute. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead," an official said. Ram Swaroop's wife Anusuiya and other family members were present when the incident took place. Village head Gulab said Ram Swaroop used to ferry a cart to make his living. "He is survived by his wife and two-year-old daughter, Roopa," he said. The family performed the last rites of the body on Sunday evening without informing the police. Station house officer, Dhata, Praveen Kumar said the incident had come to his notice and a police team would visit the village to investigate the matter. Kampala, Oct 3 : At least 65 health workers in Uganda have been put under quarantine after getting in contact with Ebola cases, a ministry of health spokesperson said. Emmanuel Ainebyoona, Ministry of Health spokesperson told Xinhua news agency by telephone that some of the affected workers would stay home for 21 days. "We are monitoring them for 21 days. We believe they got in contact with suspected cases of Ebola," Ainebyoona said. "They are in isolation but in their homes. But the situation is under control," he added. This comes after one doctor, a Tanzanian national on Saturday died of Ebola in the western Ugandan district of Kabarole. The Ebola outbreak in Uganda was announced on September 20, after a 24-year-old male adult tested positive. The ministry of health said by September 30, the country had registered 38 confirmed cases and 8 deaths as a result of Ebola. Ayodhya, Oct 3 : The Ayodhya police in Uttar Pradesh have arrested a Popular Front of India (PFI) activist. The police, in the FIR, has accused the man of being involved in anti-national activities, including provoking Muslims against Hindus and targeting members of Hindu community through terror activities. The arrested accused Mohd Zaid is said to be the active member of Tabligi Jamaat of Markaz Nizamuddin and an alumnus of famous Islamic seminary Nadwa. However, Mohd Haneef, who is Ayodhya's Ameer of Tabligi Jamaat and the father of accused Mohd Zaid claimed that the local police had arrested his son on September 29 from his house in Purani Sabzi Mandi area and had kept him in illegal detention for four days. According to the police, Zaid has been involved in PFI events organised in Kerala. Zaid's relationships with the organisation's top leaders have also been reported. This was the second arrest of an alleged PFI activist from Ayodhya. Four days back an alleged PFI activist Akram was arrested from Bikapur police station area last week. Police said that the information about Zaid was revealed during interrogation of Akram. Together they were conducting the activities of PFI in Ayodhya, police said. Ramallah, Oct 3 : Palestine has urged the European countries to tie their relations with Israel to its adherence to international law, UN resolutions, and human rights principles. "The international community is required to hold Israel directly responsible for the escalation in the West Bank against the Palestinians, and to put real pressure on it to stop it immediately," the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "Israel insists on escalating the situation, and we seriously view the dangers of this escalation that serves its interests," the statement was quoted by Xinhua news agency as saying. The call came ahead of the 12th meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council, which will be held in Brussels. The meeting will cover topics such as trade, energy, climate change, culture, science, and technology. The meeting takes place amid ongoing tensions between the Israeli army and Palestinians in the West Bank. Since early January, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, according to official Palestinian figures. In contrast, 18 Israelis have been killed in attacks carried out by Palestinians in Israeli cities since March. Srinagar, Oct 3 : A Kashmiri journalist was arrested by the J&K Police after he was accused of rape, extortion and trafficking. Police said that a local journalist operating in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, Nadeem Nadu was arrested for interrogation after he was accused by a university teacher of rape, extortion, intimidation and trafficking. Police said that a special investigation team (SIT) has been set up to probe the charges and also to go into the conduct of some officials named by the complainant in her FIR. Nadeem was working for a local English daily and a local news agency. Police press statement said that self-proclaimed journalist Nadeem Ahmed Ganie alias Nadeem Nadu of Anantnag has been arrested in a rape case. "The complainant said that he had forced her into sexual relationship after she was deceived and drugged inside a house near Shalimar in Srinagar in July 2020. "The victim also alleged that the accused took her objectionable pictures after sedating her and used these to blackmail her into forced sexual act many times. "The victim was a student in an institution in central Kashmir at the time of the occurrence of this crime. "Because of the heinous nature of the crime an SIT was set up. "The victim has said that she was forced to have sex with some officer friends of the accused," police statement said. Washington, Oct 3 : South Korea's new envoy for North Korean human rights will make her first visit to the U.S. this week since taking office, officials said Sunday. Lee Shin-hwa plans to meet officials of the State Department and the White House, as well as experts and activists, in Washington, D.C., during her four-day trip starting Wednesday to discuss various pending issues, including Pyongyang's nuclear threat and missile provocations. Lee, a Political Science Professor at Korea University, was appointed as the new envoy in July, filling a post that has been left vacant since September 2017. North Korea's human rights record has drawn greater international attention since the U.N. Commission of Inquiry issued a report in 2014 after a year long probe, saying that North Korean leaders are responsible for "widespread, systematic and gross" violations of human rights. North Korea has long been accused of grave human rights abuses, ranging from holding political prisoners in concentration camps to committing torture and carrying out public executions. Still, North Korea has bristled at outside criticism, calling it a U.S.-led attempt to topple its regime. Los Angeles, Oct 3 : Sacheen Littlefeather, the activist for Native Americans who declined Marlon Brando's Oscar for 'The Godfather' on his behalf at the 1973 Academy Awards, died on Sunday at 75, the Academy of Motion Pictures said. She had been suffering from breast cancer, reports 'Variety'. In June, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences apologised to Littlefeather for her treatment at the Oscars that night. Littlefeather attended an in-person presentation of the apology at the Academy Museum on September 17. At the Oscars, she was only given 60 seconds to read her speech on Native American rights, and was then escorted off the stage with audience members booing. "He very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award," Littlefeather said to the Academy Awards audience. "And the reasons for this being are the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry... and on television in movie re-runs, and also with recent happenings at Wounded Knee." Littlefeather, born Marie Louise Cruz in Salinas, California, became interested in Native American issues in college and participated in the 1970 occupation of Alcatraz Island, adopting her name during that time. After college, she joined SAG and reportedly met Brando, who took an interest in Native American issues, through Francis Ford Coppola who like Littlefeather, lived in San Francisco. In a recent interview, Littlefeather told 'Variety' what it was like to attend the Oscars on Brando's behalf. "It was my first time at the Academy Awards. I made it through my first hurdle, promising Marlon Brando that I would not touch that Oscar. But, as I walked off that stage, I did in the ways of courage, honour, grace, dignity and truthfulness. I did so in the ways of my ancestors and the ways of Indigenous women. "I was met with the stereotypical tomahawk chop, individuals who called at me, and I ignored all of them. I continued to walk straight ahead with a couple of armed guards beside me, and I held my head high and was proud to be the first Indigenous woman in the history of the Academy Awards to make that political statement. "At that time in 1973, there was a media blackout on Wounded Knee and against the American Indian Movement that was occupying it. Marlon had called them in advance and asked them to watch the Academy Awards, which they did. "As they saw me, up on stage, refusing that Academy Award for the stereotypes within the film industry, and mentioning Wounded Knee in South Dakota, it would break the media boycott." A documentary about her life and activism, "Sacheen Breaking the Silence," was released in 2021. Though she had a few small roles in films including 'The Trial of Billy Jack', Littlefeather said she was blacklisted in Hollywood after the Oscars, and returned to San Francisco to continue her activism and work in theatre and health care. Puducherry, Oct 3 : The Puducherry government has requested the Centre to provide the services of power grid officials to tackle the crisis in the power sector of the union territory. Notably, the employees of the electricity department of the Union Territory are on an indefinite strike since September 28. They are protesting against the government's move of inviting tender to privatise power distribution. The Union Territory is facing a crisis with several parts plunging into darkness after some electricity staff allegedly took away fuse wires in some places. Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan has warned agitating employees of evoking stringent action of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against them. On Saturday night, some parts of the state witnessed power cuts for five to seven hours and in some places, it continued till Sunday. People blocked the roads in Villiyanur and Ariyapalayam. State Home minister A. Namassivayam, who also holds the electricity portfolio, called an urgent meeting of the police officials and requested an additional company of CRPF. In rural areas of Sedrapet and Madagadipet, protestors blocked the road for hours on Sunday leading to the local legislators taking up the matter with the home minister. Namassivayam held an emergency meeting with top police brass and the state Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma on Sunday late night. The DG of Police, UT of Puducherry, Manoj Kumar Lal was also present. "We will not allow anyone to take law in their hands and taking away fuse carriers in sub-stations leaving general public including patients at the hospital at their mercy can never be allowed. We have requested the central government to deploy the services of Power Grid of India officials to control the situation as well as two companies of paramilitary force to stand guard to the power stations in the territory," he told IANS. Tehran, Oct 3 : Negotiations have reportedly been held in recent times between Iran and the U.S. over Iran's 7 billion dollars of frozen foreign exchange resources from South Korea which are on the verge of being released. However, Iran has not yet accepted the declared accounts for the transfer of the mentioned resources owing to banking considerations and has introduced new accounts for this purpose, as reported by Tehran Times. This development comes in despite the fact that nuclear negotiations with the U.S. to lift sanctions on Iran have not yielded any results. Kolkata, Oct 3 : A small puja organised by Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha at Kasba in the southern outskirts of Kolkata created controversy after it was found that the idol of the Mahishasura resembled that of Mahatma Gandhi with a shaved head and sporting a spectacle. On Sunday evening when some people noticed the idol, they complained to the state administration. The activities of the state administration started in the late evening as protests started flowing in from the political parties as well as the civil society demanding that puja organizers stop projecting Mahatma Gandhi in such light. The police contacted the organisers and asked them to take some initiative so the sentiments of Gandhian followers are not hurt. Initially, the organizers were disinclined to bring any changes. However, following increasing pressures, the organizers finally brought some changes in the external look of the Mahishasura idol. The spectacle was removed and a wig was put on the head of the idol to give it a normal Mahishasura look. However, the Puja organizers have stuck to their stand claiming they did nothing wrong by placing a Mahishasura idol resembling that of Mahatma Gandhi. One of the principal puja organizers, Sundargiri Maharaj, who claims himself to be a state president of Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha, said that they did not make any mistake since time has come to speak the truth publicly. "I think it is the duty of every Hindu to speak the truth now," he said, without taking a direct reference to the entire development regarding the Mahishasura idol. Another Puja organizer, Chandrachur Goswami said, "We received threatening calls. The police administration threatened us to close down the Puja unless we made some changes in the look of the Mahishasura idol. Finally, we had to bring some changes to avoid further tension." Meanwhile, the Congress and CPI-M leadership in the state have criticized the state administration for acting so late in the matter. The CPI-M politburo member and the party's state secretary in West Bengal, Md Salim said that Mahatma Gandhi, whose contribution in the Indian freedom movement was unquestionable, was killed by a Hindutva fanatic. "Now, every day there is an attempt to slaughter the Gandhian philosophy. This was a deliberate attempt to hurt the sentiment of the huge number of people involved in a universal festival," Salim said. The state Congress president in West Bengal and veteran party MP. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that Mahatma Gandhi has been insulted in the same Kolkata, the city where he conducted fasting agitations during the time of Independence movement to stop communal violence. "It is unfortunate that the state administration acted so late," he said. Till the report was filed there was no report of any administrative action being taken against the Puja organizers. Chennai, Oct 3 : Protests against the proposed airport at Parandur have intensified in Tamil Nadu's Kancheepuram district with the grama sabha meeting passing a resolution against it. The resolution was passed by Ekanpuram villagers in Parandur sitting under the statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar on Gandhi Jayanti. Most of those who signed the resolution were women. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had in the state Assembly announced the construction of an airport at Parandur at a cost of Rs 20,000 crore. The new airport is proposed to have two runways, taxiways, aprons, cargo terminals, and new buildings among other infrastructure, and has been stiffly opposed by the villagers, including farmers. The state government has promised compensation to those displaced due to the airport project above that of the market value. However, people in the district have been protesting against the project and have warned the government of strong agitation against the project. M. Kumarasamy, an agriculturist at Ekanapuram village while speaking to IANS, said, "We will not allow our land to be taken away by the government for the airport project. The DMK government had promised to take care of the needs of the poor and downtrodden, including farmers. Is this the way they are looking after our needs, taking away our land which is our only livelihood? There will be strong protests and we can't be lured by the compensation they are offering." Villagers have also decided to conduct relay satyagraha against the impending airport project in the days to come. The government has announced the second airport in Chennai at Parandur to be functional by 2028 and that an area of around 4,500 acres would be taken over for its construction. The state government is of the opinion that Chennai and its surrounding areas will have stagnant growth without a second airport. New Delhi, Oct 3 : At the request of Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX), 63 moons technologies on Monday said it has agreed to a fresh arrangement, as per new terms of the engagement for Software Support Services to the exchange for a period of three months from this month. The Mumbai-based technology major said all existing support and service levels will be offered to benefit trading members which they have enjoyed since the inception of MCX. 63 moons put sincere appreciation for the resolution passed by the MCX Board which stated: "The Board notes with satisfaction, as confirmed by the management, that the trading, clearing, and settlement platform of 63 moons has been stable over many years and has met the requirements of the Exchange and has been ably supported by 63 Moons at all times." The software support and maintenance agreement between 63 Moons and MCX, which was last amended on September 27, 2014, ended on September 30, 2022. "In view of the new arrangement, the trading community can now continue to enjoy seamless trading experience beyond September 30, 2022," stated 63 moons. MCX has issued a Purchase Order to 63 moons, formerly known as Financial Technologies, for extending Support and Managed Services for its existing trading and clearing platform for a period of three months, beginning from October 1 to December 31. Notably, two years back, MCX had issued a contract to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to provide the trading technology but failed to get desired results from TCS in the specified timeline. 63 moons technologies mainly provides next-generation technology ventures and solutions for creating digital markets and marketplaces that enable price discovery and transaction efficiencies across industry segments. Bilaspur : , Oct 3 (IANS) BJP National President J.P. Nadda's ambitious project of commissioning AIIMS Bilaspur, a premier hospital, in his political battleground, whose foundation stone was laid exactly five years ago, is all set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday just days ahead of the state Assembly polls. Modi will also be the first Prime Minister to attend Dussehra festivities in Kullu town on the same day, where a grand congregation of over 200 Gods and Goddesses annually assemble for the week-long celebrations. Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Nadda reached Bilaspur, located 130 km from the Himachal Pradesh capital, on Sunday to oversee the arrangements relating to Modi's visit to inaugurate AIIMS at Kothipura in Bilaspur district and later his address with a gathering of estimated one lakh people that is aiming to set the stage to build momentum for the upcoming Assembly polls. The BJP-ruled hill state is likely to go to the polls for its 68-member Assembly in November. "We are expecting a gathering of over one lakh people from across the state at the Luhnu ground. The public meeting will be held after the inauguration of AIIMS Bilaspur," BJP spokesperson Karan Nanda told IANS. Earlier, the rain washed the election rally of Modi in Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur's home turf Mandi on September 24. The devotional fervour will reach a crescendo when the Prime Minister will attend a centuries-old unique Kullu Dussehra festivity that begins on Vijaya Dashami, the day when the festivities end in the rest of the country. "Modi-ji will be the first Prime Minister to attend the Kullu Dussehra festival after concluding his public address in Bilaspur," Nanda added. Going by the legend, Lord Raghunath's chariot is wheeled out by the tens of thousands of devotees from his historical temple in Sultanpur in Kullu on the first day of Dussehra amid chants of "Jai Raghunath" and the sounding of trumpets and drums. The festival dates to 1637, when Raja Jagat Singh ruled Kullu. Modi is also expected to participate in the pulling of the chariot of Lord Raghunath, officials said. The assembled deities follow the chariot in a ceremonial procession by the servitors. Officials told IANS the 750-bed AIIMS is set up with an outlay of Rs 1,350 crore with facility for a medical college with an intake capacity of 100 seats and a nursing college with 60 seats. Modi laid the foundation of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bilaspur on October 3, 2017, with a deadline to be completed by December 2021. AIIMS at Bilaspur is another milestone in the list of achievements of the National Democratic Alliance government in the health sector, former Union health minister Nadda has said. It will provide the much-needed tertiary medical services to a vast population of those not only in Himachal Pradesh but other northern states also. With his campaign, the Prime Minister will try to drive the aModi charisma' in the state and retain the power in assembly polls. Nadda, along with Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, inspected the ongoing construction work at AIIMS on several occasions. In one of his visits, Nadda expressed satisfaction that despite the Covid-19 crisis, the construction work was going on smoothly. Thanking Prime Minister Modi and Nadda for approving the setting up of AIIMS in Himachal Pradesh and making adequate budgetary provision for its construction, Chief Minister Thakur said the state has released Rs 73 crore for providing power and Rs 65 crore for water supply to the hospital. Other than AIIMS, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Hydro Engineering College at Bandla in Bilaspur and lay foundation stones for a Medical Devices Park in Nalagarh and a four-lane project from Pinjore to Nalagarh. In the 2019 parliamentary elections, Nadda played an important role in his home state Himachal and helped the party retain all the four seats. Nadda won his first Assembly election from Bilaspur (Sadar) in Himachal in 1993. In 1998, he again won from that seat and became the state health minister. He lost the assembly elections in 2003, but again won in 2007 and was appointed the forest minister. Born December 2, 1960, Nadda did his graduation from Patna in Bihar and holds a postgraduate degree in political science and LL.B. from Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla. Starting his political career in 1978 as a student leader of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the students' wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Nadda had also worked both with Nitin Gadkari and Amit Shah even in the Bharatiya Yuva Morcha -- from 1991 to 1994. His wife Mallika Nadda, who was previously teaching history in the Himachal Pradesh University, also was an ABVP activist, and its national general secretary from 1988 to 1999. A low-profile leader with astute organisational skills, Nadda was forced to resign as state forest minister in 2010 owing to differences between him and then chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal. At that time he joined the BJP president Nitin Gadkari's team and was made the party's national general secretary. On his departure he had told reporters that he was "leaving the state politics with a heavy heart". (Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in) New Delhi, Oct 3 : Indian securities authorities were on alert following a bomb threat on board an Iranian passenger flight when it was approaching Delhi. Sources claimed that the Mahan Air flight, which was in Indian airspace when the airline received the bomb threat, was denied permission to land in India due to technical reasons. As per a flight tracking website Flightradar, the plane was on its way from Tehran in Iran to Guangzhou in China. The flight continued its journey to China after clearance from the authorities as it was not allowed to land in Delhi and Jaipur. As per the sources, a call regarding the bomb threat on the flight was received at around 9:20 a.m. on Monday. Sources said that while the nature of the threat is still unclear, following the call, the authorities at Delhi airport were immediately put on alert and permission was sought for landing. However, permission was not granted due to technical reasons and the plane was diverted to Jaipur. Sources said that the plane was not allowed to land in Jaipur and it finally headed towards its destination. Bengaluru, Oct 3 : It's halal versus jhatka cut in Karnataka with Hindu activists launching a campaign seeking a boycott of halal meat during the Navratri celebrations in the city. Meat is offered to ancestors of the family during the festivities and people feast on non-vegetarian food in south Karnataka. Hindu activists have started a campaign that during the festivities, meat should only be bought from Hindu shops. Mune Gowda, a Hindu activist and Hindavi Mart owner explained that a meeting of Hindu leaders would be held on Monday in this regard. "Jatka cut (Hindu way of killing animals for meat) campaign has to be continued," he said. Last time, when a call was given to use only Jhatka cut and ban Halal cut meat, people responded well and it was a great success. Hindus have awakened. From Monday, door to door campaigns would be taken up and handbills would be distributed, he explained. The campaign to use only Jhatka cut meat and buy meat from Hindu shops will also be taken up on social media, near temples, he stated. "In the 17th lesson of the Bhagavad Gita says whatever food you have, if you consume in my name you will be rid of all sins. The concern is to follow this principle. Hindavi Marts are not open for business. The youth who are trained have opened shops across the state," he maintained. The boycott on Halal cut meat made national news at the height of the hijab crisis in Karnataka. A call was given by Hindu activists to ban Muslim merchants following their protest against the Karnataka High Court order on hijab. The High Court had quashed the petitions demanding right to wear hijab in class rooms and stated that wearing hijab is not an essential part of Islam religion. Srinagar, Oct 3 : A soldier was found dead on Monday with a gunshot wound in J&K's Baramulla district. Police sources said that an army soldier, identified as Rahul Bhagat, son of Anand Bhagat of Maharashtra, was found dead in a pool of blood with gunshot wound in his chest inside a camp in the Boniyar area of Uri tehsil. "The body has been taken into custody for autopsy after an FIR was registered in the incident," sources said, adding that investigation was going on to find out the details of the soldier's death. Chennai, Oct 3 : The Tamil Nadu health department is on a high alert over the possibility of a spike in fever cases as monsoon retreats. The department has directed the people to wear masks regularly, to keep safe distancing, and also sanitize regularly. The possibility of H1N1 Influenza, ordinary influenza, and Covid-19 diseases spreading during monsoon is also anticipated by the state health department. Dr. Manonmani. G, Associate Professor in a private medical college in Chennai while speaking to IANS said, "The fever has taken a back seat in the state for the past few days. This is mainly due to the school vacation and the fever can be back in the state and extreme precaution is the need of the hour. People should clearly take the health department's directives seriously." Dr. Swaminathan. R, Retired Professor, Madurai Medical College while speaking to IANS said, "Of late some patients, who have a fever, are also reporting diarrhea and this is either due to instances of food poisoning or part of fever. The point to note is that the state has to gear up for the fever which is sure to resurface during the monsoon." Tamil Nadu minister for health and family welfare, Ma Subramanian, while speaking to IANS said, "People must stick to the directives given by the state health department. The health department is working hard but without people's support nothing can materialize and hence everyone must bear in mind the directives given by the health department to prevent an outbreak." Doctors at the Institute of Child Health and Children Hospital, Egmore also cautioned the people to be wary of the rain-related fever in the state. Dr. S. Srinivasan, Nodal Officer for Child Health told the media persons that the number of fever cases that approach the hospital has come down to 10 a day from 80-90 a few days ago. However, he said that the fever can come back during the monsoon and called upon the people to be cautious. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Indian securities authorities were on alert following a bomb threat on board an Iranian passenger flight when it was approaching Delhi. Sources said that IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled, which followed the aircraft at a safe distance. Intimation was received of a bomb scare on an airline bearing Iranian registration, when it was transiting through Indian airspace. "IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled, which followed the aircraft at a safe distance. The aircraft was offered the option to land at Jaipur and then, at Chandigarh. However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports," said a source. Sources claimed that after a while, intimation was received from Tehran to disregard the bomb scare, following which, the aircraft continued its journey towards its final destination. All actions were taken by IAF as per the laid down procedure, jointly with Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The aircraft was under close radar surveillance by the Air Force throughout the Indian airspace, said a source. The Mahan Air flight was in Indian airspace when the airline received the bomb threat. As per a flight tracking website Flightradar, the plane was on its way from Tehran in Iran to Guangzhou in China. The flight continued its journey to China after clearance from the authorities. A call regarding the bomb threat on the flight was received at around 9:20 a.m. on Monday and the nature of the threat was still unclear. Sources said that following the call of bomb threat, the authorities at the Delhi airport. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Mumbai, Oct 3 : Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan, whose last film 'Laal Singh Chaddha' turned out to be a box-office dud, recently jetted off to London with her second child, baby Jeh. But, before one jumps to conclusion, the actress has gone to the UK capital city not for a vacation but for work. She will be shooting for her next movie, which is to be directed by Hansal Mehta of 'Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story' fame. The yet-to-be-titled film will be shot in London and in two schedules. Kareena will be back to the country to celebrate Diwali with her family, before she again takes off for the second schedule. The film will be produced by Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Motion Pictures and will mark Kareena's second collaboration with the production company, her first being the 2018 film 'Veere Di Wedding' where she co-starred with Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar and Shikha Talsania. Although not much has been revealed about the upcoming film, the combination of an ace director like Hansal Mehta and a star of stature like Kareena is something the fans are eagerly awaiting and definitely looking forward to. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Chennai, Oct 3 : Director Mani Ratnam's magnum opus 'Ponniyin Selvan 1', which is based on eminent writer Kalki's literary classic by the same name, has grossed a whopping sum of Rs 200 crore worldwide so far, its makers announced on Monday. Lyca Productions, which has jointly produced the critically acclaimed superhit film along with director Mani Ratnam's Madras Talkies, on Monday, along with a poster that said the film had grossed Rs 200 crore worldwide, tweeted: "Marching on and making history! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the audience who've been showering us with love! Catch #PS1 in theatres near you!" The film has managed to rake in this huge amount in just three days. The film has already entered history books by becoming the film with the biggest ever opening in Tamil cinema. The film grossed a worldwide sum of over Rs 80 crore on its very first day. 'Ponniyin Selvan 1', which had triggered huge expectations, released on Friday much to the delight of fans and received a thunderous welcome from audiences. The film seems to have struck a chord with audiences of all age groups. The film has caught the attention of senior citizens in particular, as it is based on the literary classic by Kalki. Several senior citizens who had given up the practise of going to theatres are now making an exception in the case of this film as they are eager to watch the classic on screen. 'Ponniyin Selvan', the first part of which released on Friday, is a story based on the early life of prince Arun Mozhi Varman, who later went on to be known as the great Raja Chozhan. Called by Mani Ratnam as his dream project, the film features a host of top stars including actors Vikram, Aishwarya Rai, Trisha, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Jayaram, Parthiban, Lal, Vikram Prabhu, Jayaram, Prabhu and Prakash Raj. The film is among the most expensive projects ever undertaken in the country and is based on the Tamil classic 'Ponniyin Selvan' by eminent writer Kalki. Patna, Oct 3 : A sub-inspector of Bihar's Gopalganj district was arrested for allegedly attempting to rape a minor girl inside the police station premises, an official said. Gopalganj SP Anand Kumar confirmed the incident. He said that alleged sub-inspector B.N. Prasad was arrested on Sunday after an FIR was registered against him under POCSO Act. "We have arrested the alleged sub-inspector B.N. Prasad and appointed DSP headquarter Jyoti Kumari to investigate the incident. The interrogation of the accused is underway and the action will be taken against him based on the report submitted by the DSP headquarters," Anand Kumar said. The incident occurred on Saturday. Alleged sub-inspector B.N. Prasad, who was deployed in Mirganj police station, was at the residential quarter inside the premises. He has hired a domestic help for cooking. On Saturday, the domestic help fell ill and took leave for the day. Prasad meanwhile asked her to send her daughter to his house to clean the stencils. When her minor daughter went there and started cleaning the utencils, Prasad engaged in lewd behaviour with her. She quickly tried to leave for home when Prasad grabbed and tried to rape her. The victim raised the alarm and soon other police personnel reached accused's house. She shared her ordeal with the police personnel. Till the time, Prasad fled the spot. The victim also informed her mother who further complained to SHO Chotan Kumar about the incident. Lucknow, Oct 3 : The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has reinstated two senior suspended IPS officers -- DIG Anant Deo Tiwari and Superintendent of Police Pawan Kumar. While Tiwari, a 2006-batch officer, was suspended on November 12, 2020 for alleged role in posting and shielding of police officials who were hand in glove with slain don Vikas Dubey, Kumar, a 2009-batch IPS officer from Rajasthan, posted in Ghaziabad, faced action for dereliction of duty in March 31 this year. A senior official at the DGP headquarters confirmed the reinstatement of the two officers. DIG Anant Deo Tiwari, a PPS officer, was promoted to IPS cadre in 2006. He was Kanpur SSP just before Bikru carnage and DIG, Special Task Force, when the incident took place. It may be recalled that eight police personnel were killed when they went to the Bikru village on July 3, 2020 to arrest gangster Vikas Dubey. Later, the SIT formed by the government for a probe, in its report had also reportedly shown that Anant Deo was 'soft' while acting against slain don Dubey. The manner of posting of Vinay Tiwari as Chaubeypur SHO was also questioned by the SIT, led by additional chief secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy. The government had shunted him to PAC on July 8 after an old audio of Deputy Superintendent of Police Devendra Mishra, who was later killed in Bikru shootout, emerged in which he was seeking action against Chaubeypur SHO during a chat with Anant Deo, then Kanpur SSP. The then Chaubeypur SHO Vinay Tiwari was arrested after his complicity with Vikas Dubey was prima facie established. One Jaikant Bajpai, who has been identified as the financier of Vikas Dubey and is at present in jail, reportedly frequented Anant Deo when the latter was Kanpur police chief. Bajpai has posted several pictures of him along with Anant Deo clicked inside the SSP office. Meanwhile, Ghaziabad police chief Pawan Kumar, who has received two awards for services in the past, was suspended for dereliction of duty and failing to control crime. Pawan Kumar was also accused of illegally detaining BJP workers on March 10, the day counting for the UP Assembly election was taking place. BJP Rajya Sabha MP Anil Agarwal and mayor Asha Sharma were reportedly detained by the police and were taken to a police outpost. However, Pawan defended his men later on when his response was sought on the matter and told senior officials of the home department that the officers were following the instructions and not allowing people who did not hold a valid pass from entering into the counting centre. Chennai, Oct 3 : The Villupuram police have arrested four youths with narcotic substances, including opioid-based tablets, ganja, sodium chloride injection, and syringes. The arrested have been identified as Saddam Hussain, S. Surya, Samuel, and B. Siva alias Rajasekhar. They were arrested during a routine vehicle check-up by the special team of the Villupuram police on Sunday night. The four arrested were produced before a judicial magistrate court and remanded in prison. According to police, the arrested have been supplying banned narcotic substances to school and college students. The police after interrogating the foursome found that they had sourced the drugs from Chennai and were planning to sell them to school and college students. The Villupuram police have charged them under Sections 328 (causing hurt by means of poison etc with intent to commit an offense) and Section 20 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. It may be noted that the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police C. Sylendrababu has directed all the district superintendents of police and commissioners of police to conduct a crackdown against the drug mafia. The DGP has also directed the police to constitute special teams to nab the culprits who are involved in selling narcotic substances to school and college children. New Delhi/Bengaluru, Oct 3 : University of South Australia (UniSA) delegation has capped off a successful visit to India with the official Indian launch of its industry-led Bachelor of Digital Business degree at the Australian India Business Exchange (AIBX) this morning. Attending alongside a number of Australian Government representatives, including Austrade CEO Xavier Simonet, as well as key Indian education sector officials, UniSA Chief Academic Officer Tom Steer said that he was pleased with the outcomes of the Indian mission. Steer said: "We're proud to join forces with Austrade in showcasing our innovative industry designed and delivered curriculum to India. Whilst we have officially launched here today in Bangalore, this has been part of a bigger global mission to take the Accenture-UniSA partnership to the world. Earlier this week we showcased our new degree in Kuala Lumpur, after launching it on campus in Adelaide and virtually earlier this month, and there are future events scheduled for Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong and Taipei." The Bachelor of Digital Business is part of a ground-breaking partnership with global professional services firm Accenture in Australia. The degree aims to equip students in India with the necessary knowledge and applied skills to meet future global business needs for the digital economy. Students can apply now (applications close 16 December 2022) for a February 2023 commencement in Adelaide. Steer said: "I echo the comments of the Indian Union Minister for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, who on Tuesday said that there is a new 'digital lifestyle' taking shape in India. UniSA is keen to be part of India's need for filling skills gaps to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes, and doing so at any level: undergraduate, postgraduate and even short course professional development required by Indian Government, industry and education institutions. We have years of experience in delivering successful transnational education programs as well as the provision of online learning, plus we've established excellent relationships in India, making UniSA a strong choice in an education partner." Outside the AIBX launch, the UniSA delegation joined by an Accenture representative also hosted a high-level event for CEOs and senior leadership of leading Indian education agencies as well as officials from the Australian Embassy including representatives of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission and Department of Education, Skills and Employment. Steer said: "This mission has reaffirmed that we have designed the right degree for the world's changing workforce needs. Because there is industry content from day one of the degree, it has the potential to be a game-changer in producing job-ready graduates who will transition seamlessly into employment, armed with practical knowledge and the ability to solve real-world problems. Not only that, but it will also produce future business leaders, capable of leveraging digital technologies to create real business value in the new digital economy." With intelligence gained from this Mission, the UniSA delegates will now return to Adelaide to consider future innovative offerings under the UniSA-Accenture partnership, which is likely to extend beyond undergraduate level qualifications. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Smartphone brand Motorola on Monday introduced a new affordable smartphone 'moto g72' that features a 108MP camera and 10-bit billion colour pOLED display. The device comes in two colour variants -- Meteorite Grey and Polar Blue. Powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 processor, the new smartphone comes packed with a 5000mAh battery with a 30W Turbopower charger, according to the company. Launched at Rs 18,999, the moto g72 is available in a single 6GB RAM+128GB storage variant for Rs 14,999 on Flipkart for a limited period. "It also come with clean and captivating near stock Android 12 with assured update to Android 13 and three years of security updates", the company said in a statement. The device comes with a 6.6-inch pOLED HDR10+ display and is packed with Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos sound technology. It houses a 108MP rear camera setup and a 16MP selfie camera. The company said that the smartphone is the most sleek, light and stylish phone in the segment, at just 7.99mm and just 166gm. It comes with premium acrylic glass (PMMA) finish, in-display fingerprint sensor and more. The new smartphone also offers IP52 water repellent design, a customisable user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) and signature moto gestures. Mumbai, Oct 3 : Telugu actor Nikhil Siddhartha, who got a lot of positive response for his pan-India release, 'Karthikeya 2', is a huge fan of the Badshah of Bollywood - Shah Rukh Khan, by his own admission. Nikhil has been a part of 'Karthikeya 1' and 'Karthikeya 2' and will also be seen in 'Karthikeya 3'. The actor, who started his journey in the film industry as an assistant director, and emerged as a successful actor with 'Karthikeya 2', recently shared, "I am a huge Shahrukh Khan fan from the 'Fauji' and 'Circus' (television shows) time." He said that he has seen every single interview of Shah Rukh Khan to understand what it takes to be an outsider and still rule the hearts of millions across the world, "I have watched every interview of his and learnt how he came from outside and became the King of Bollywood." After its theatrical run, 'Karthikeya 2' will soon be streaming on ZEE5 from October 5. The movie did good business in both the Northern and Southern belts. The actor has a mesmerising line-up of films in the coming year and will be seen next in 'Spy', a larger-than-life action thriller. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday said that for working towards providing seamless multimodal connectivity in New India, the Chennai Port to Maduravoyal corridor in Tamil Nadu has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 5,800 crore. The Minister said the proposed elevated stretch of 20.5 km will be developed in four sections and will start inside the Chennai Port and end after the Maduravoyal interchange. Gadkari said the project will be completed by December 2024 and will serve as a dedicated freight corridor for Chennai-bound port traffic. The project will increase the handling capacity of Chennai Port by 48 per cent and subsequently reduce the waiting time at the port by six hours. As per the plan, out of the nearly 21 km, a total of 12 km corridor will be a double- decked corridor. It is located between Maduravoyal on the Chennai-Bengaluru highway and the Napier bridge, which is close to the Chennai Port gate. Guwahati, Oct 3 : In a pleasent display of communal harmony between the Hindu and Muslim communities in Assam's Sivasagar town, a Durga Puja Pandal is erected sharing boundary with a mosque. The Puja is organised by a local club called Nabajuvak Durgatsav Samiti, which turns 62 this year. It was earlier celebrated somewhere else in the town, but with a space crunch there around 30 years ago, the organisers had to shift the Puja venue to the Thana Road area of the town where the pandal is next to the old local Beparipatty Masjid. "The club members first tried to get space in a local park, but that could not happen. When they decided to shift it here, then district administration feared disturbance to communal harmony in the area," the President of the Masjid Committee, Faridul Islam told IANS. He added: "That time, my father used to be the president of the masjid committee. He, along with other people, approached the administration and urged to conduct the Durga Puja here only with an assurance of not disturbing the harmony between the two communities." The celebration of Durga Puja which began by sharing the same boundary wall with the Masjid has been running in a very friendly environment with the active cooperation of the Muslim community as well. When namaz is offered in the mosque, the loudspeakers in the Puja pandal are switched off. Sanjay Pareekh, one of the organisers of the Puja said: "We have tremendous support from the Muslim community. They actively take part in carrying Durga idols, and offer support during visarjan." Both the silver and golden jubilees of this Durga Puja were celebrated with enthusiasm from Mulsim community members as well, informed Pareekh. Locals residing in the area expressed that the festivities would become grander and more beautiful with the bond of brotherhood becoming stronger in the coming times. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Crime Branch of the Delhi Police has arrested an absconding accused from Aligarh who was involved in the murder of Head Constable Ratan Lal during the 2020 riots in north east Delhi. The accused was identified as Mohammed Wasim alias Salman. In the incident, over 50 policemen were injured, including Amit Sharma, the then Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shahdara and Anuj Kumar, the then ACP of Gokal Puri who also sustained grievous injuries. In January 2020, protests against CAA/NRC were going on at the main Wazirabad Road, Chand Bagh. On February 23, 2020, the protests were continuing even as the then US President Donald Trump was in the national capital. Senior police officials with staff were deployed to maintain law and order. In the afternoon, on the call of the organisers, protesters carrying sticks, improvised weapons, iron rods, swords, stones, petrol bombs and chemical weapons started rushing to the Wazirabad Road. The senior police officers and staff instructed them to return to the service road. But the protesters became violent and started pelting stones and petrol bombs at the police. More than 50 police personnel were injured as they tried to pacify the protesters. Head Constable Ratan Lal, who was deployed for law and order arrangements, was killed while performing his duties. During investigation, on the basis of analysis of CCTVs and by way of CDR locations, statements of the witnesses, the police arrested 22 accused while five absconded and were declared Proclaimed Offenders. "Thereafter, raids were conducted at various places in Delhi, but no clue was found about the accused. Police got inputs that the Wasim was staying in a very clandestine manner in District Aligarh. Thereafter, information was developed from Aligarh and it was confirmed that the accused was working in a small factory of one, named Dilshad. After relentless efforts made by the team, accused Wasim was arrested from Aligarh," the police said. The accused told the police that in February 2020 he came in contact with several anti-social elements and on the day of the incident, he along with his associates, filled thinner in glass bottles and kept them in a carton on the terrace of a house. These crude bombs were thrown at the police officers during the riot. After the incident, the accused destroyed his mobile phone and did not even contact his relatives in the last two years. Ratan Lal was passionate about working as a police officer since childhood. Born in a farming family of Shekhawati (Rajasthan), he joined Delhi Police in 1998. During the Chand Bagh protests, he used to mingle with the public in civilian clothes to make them understand that they should not resort to violence. On January 24, 2020, although HC Ratan Lal had a mild fever and despite his colleagues advising him to take rest, he joined duty in view of the grave tension in the area. Even when the rioters turned dangerous, he helped the DCP and the ACP to pacify the crowd and control them. When the rioters attacked the police team, he put himself as a shield between them. He succumbed to the 24 injuries he received during this attack. His selfless act saved a number of lives and he is admired as a hero of Delhi Police. Lahore, Oct 3 : At least two children were admitted to a hospital after a restaurant in Lahore allegedly served acid bottles during birthday celebrations, Samaa TV reported Monday. According to the FIR registered at the Lari Adda Police Station, the complainant claimed that on September 27, the family went to a restaurant situated inside the Greater Iqbal Park to celebrate birthday. The complainant said that after dinner, a guest used one of the water bottles served by the restaurant to wash the hands of his son. As soon as the water was poured over his hand, the child started screaming, Samaa TV reported. Around the same time, another child drank from one of the bottles and fell unconscious after throwing up. One of the relatives, who was attending to the child, also developed blisters on his hands when the child vomited on him. The victims' family said both children were shifted to the hospital. The police arrested the manager of the restaurant and started the investigation. This man tricked dozens into working for design agency that never existed Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday arrested one Sanjay Raghunath Aggarwal in connection with a money laundering case related to GDR (Global Depository Receipt fraud. According to a central agency official, they initiated the case on the basis of an FIR registered by Telangana Police in the case of fraudulent GDR (Global Depository Receipt) issue of a Hyderabad based firm Farmax India Ltd. The official said that Aggarwal, along with the promoters of the GDR issuing Company and others, curated a scheme of duping the Indian investors by fraudulently subscribing to the GDR of Indian companies from loan obtained from EURAM Bank by pledging the proceeds from the same GDR issue. Farmax India Ltd, with the financial advisory services of Aggarwal through his entity La Richesse Advisors Pvt. Ltd, had raised Rs 318 crore in June-August 2010, in Europe by issuing GDR. The entire GDR was subscribed by only one entity Vintage FZE floated and controlled by Arun Pachariya out of loan funds taken from EURAM Bank by pledging the GDR proceeds of the Indian Company, even before the GDRs were subscribed. The Indian Company in connivance with Aggarwal and Pachariya and others fraudulently offered the GDR proceeds as mortgage security to the Bank to arrange loan to Vintage FZE. Eventually, Vintage FZE did not repay the loan and the GDR proceeds were adjusted by the Bank against outstanding loan. The GDR proceeds were never repatriated to India. These GDRs were later converted into equity by the FIIs controlled by Pachariya and sold in Indian Stock market at higher inflated price and caused a loss to Indian investors of around Rs 54 crore. Aggarwal was produced before court which remanded him to judicial custody for 14 days. Further investigation in the matter is on. Jaipur, Oct 3 : The first indigenous combat helicopter named 'Prachanda' was inducted in the Indian Air Force on Monday in Jodhpur. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was in Jodhpur on Monday to attend this Induction ceremony of the first indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopters (LCH). Before the handing over of the Light Combat Helicopter to the Air Force, a synod was organized here in which the religious gurus of all four communities were present. After the programme, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took a flight in Prachanda. Speaking on the occasion, the defence minister said that there can be no better time than Navratri and better place than the soil of Rajasthan to induct LCH in the Air Force. With the induction of LCH, the strength of the Air Force will increase. Proud of indigenous technology of the country. The victory chariot of India is ready. LCH has met all the challenges and can easily dodge enemies, he added. During the programme, Singh described LCH as a victory chariot and said that in the coming times, India's name will be the first among the super power countries. The induction ceremony at Jodhpur airbase was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and IAF chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari. The induction of these helicopters will give a big boost to the IAF's combat prowess, Rajnath said in his tweet earlier. Chennai, Oct 3 : Actor Madhavan, better known as actor Maddy to his fans and followers, on Monday expressed his deep appreciation for a short film titled, 'I am going to tell GOD everything' saying, the well made film had left him "moved and rattled." Taking to Instagram, Maddy wrote, "An eye-opener and some thing that will question every action that we do today. Weren't we supposed to be the evolved ones? "Wasn't love, compassion and understanding supposed to be the whole mock of every civilization? When did we start turning into such horrendous beasts? What a well-made film my dear bro Jaypatel... moved and rattled. Watch this one guys ... "I am going to tell GOD everything." . A must watch." The short film is a true story and is based on real events with a rollercoaster of emotions. Produced by an Indian American film producer Jay Patel, the Hollywood short film emphasises non-violence and anti-war. The movie depicts the outcome of war and its devastating impact, especially on children and women. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said that they recently conducted search operations on 12 entities in Bengaluru having Chinese links and seized around Rs 5.85 crore. These firms were cheating innocent youths on the pretext of providing them part-time jobs through the Chinese app 'Keepshare' and collecting money from them. The money thus collected was used to buy crypto currencies. The ED initiated money laundering investigation on the basis of an FIR registered at the South CEN Police Station, Bengaluru City in a matter related to the part-time job fraud. The ED learnt in the investigation that gullible public, mostly youths, were cheated by some Chinese persons through a mobile app namely 'Keepsharer' which promised them to give part-time jobs and collected money from them. These Chinese persons formed companies in India and recruited many Indians as directors, translators (for translating Mandarin to English and vice versa), HR Managers and Tele callers. They obtained the documents of Indian persons and opened bank accounts by using their documents. The accused Chinese persons developed a mobile app in the name of 'Keepsharer' and started its advertisement through WhatsApp and Telegram by offering part time job opportunities to the youths. This app was linked with an investment app and they collected money from the youths for registration on this app. "They collected money from the public also in the name of investment through this app. The youth were given the task of liking the videos of celebrities and uploading them on social media. When the task was completed, they used to pay Rs 20 per video which was to be credited in the Keepsharer wallet," the official said. The ED said that for some time, money got credited in their wallet, but later on, the app was removed from the playstore. Thus, the public was cheated with their investment amount and the remuneration to be paid which ran into crores of rupees. The money collected through the scam was routed from the bank accounts of some Bengaluru-based companies and then converted into crypto currency and transferred to China-based Crypto exchanges. All the transactions were under the control of Chinese persons through phone and WhatsApp groups. As per the charge sheet filed by the police, out of 92 accused, six are Chinese and Taiwan nationals who were controlling the entire scam. Further investigation in the matter was on. Washington, Oct 3 : At least 80 people were killed in the U.S. states of Florida and North Carolina by Hurricane Ian which made landfall in southwestern Florida as Category 4 last week. At least 76 people in Florida had died due to Ian, with four other fatalities reported in North Carolina, media outlets said on Sunday. In Florida's Lee County alone, the hurricane contributed to 42 deaths. The county sheriff Carmine Marceno told reporters that the projected death toll is unknown due to the insurmountable damage the county has seen. "Those numbers could go up," he said. "I don't know. I hope and pray that they don't." More than 1,600 rescues have been made in Florida since Ian made landfall there on Wednesday afternoon, according to the office of Governor Ron DeSantis. The storm brought catastrophic storm surges, heavy rains and destructive winds, and dangerous flooding to both Florida's coast and inland areas. Ian made landfall in South Carolina as Category 1 on Friday afternoon and weakened to a post-tropical cyclone that later dissipated across southern Virginia on Saturday. U.S. President Joe Biden is scheduled to travel to Puerto Rico Monday to survey damage from Hurricane Fiona, which brought heavy rains, catastrophic damage and an island-wide blackout to the U.S. territory last month, before heading to Florida on Wednesday. Biden said on Friday that Hurricane Ian "is likely to rank among the worst in the nation's history." Estimated losses from Ian's wind and storm surges are between 28 billion and 47 billion U.S. dollars, according to CoreLogic, a U.S. research firm that estimates losses from natural disasters. Kolkata, Oct 3 : While almost 2,500 inmates in Presidency Central Correctional Home in south Kolkata are able to participate in a small puja organised jointly by the authorities and inmates within the jail premises, some high-profile inmates like former West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee will not be able to avail of the facility. Unlike most inmates, he will have to spend the majority of the time in his cell during the four days of Puja from October 1 to October 5. However, he will not be denied the sumptuous delicacies, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, that the correctional home authorities are arranging for the inmates for the four days of the festival. Arrested for his alleged involvement in the multi- crore West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) recruitment scam, Chatterjee will be behind the bars till October 31, when he will be presented at a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court after his current judicial custody ends. State Correctional Services Department sources said that the former state education minister was keen to participate in the Puja. "However, considering all security aspects, the correctional home authorities decided to deny him the permission to participate in the occasion. Whatever little time, the former minister is brought out of his cell, he has to face ridicule or taunting messages of his fellow inmates in the correctional home. So, there is a security risk of allowing him to participate in the Puja even through it is within the jail premises. However, the prison authorities are trying their best to take him in front of the Durga idol for a short period of time. But for that they will have to ensure that the other inmates are in their respective cells or wards at that point of time," an official said. However, he added that Chatterjee will not be the only inmate who has been denied the facility of participation. "Some other inmates like Aftab Ansari, a convict in the case of attack of American Centet in Kolkata in 2022 is yet another Presidency Central Correctional Home inmate not allowed to participate in the Puja," the official added. Mumbai, Oct 3 : 'Bhootnath Returns' actor Manuj Sharma opens up on working with Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan in 'Vikram Vedha'. He also briefs about playing a cop in the film. He says: "I play an honest cop in the special squad run by Vikram (played by Saif). When the character realises that the squad is engaging in illegal activities, he wants to leave. Vikram explains to him how to tackle gangsters and Deepak even saves his life." "There is a great bonding between him and Vikram where the latter starts relying on him. But I betray him in the climax. My character shows the indoctrination that happens in the system." On working with Saif in the film he adds: "Saif sir used to rehearse the scene again and again. The directors were always there to guide us. We would work on every minute detail." While talking about what he learned from Saif during the shoot, he shares: "My major takeaway from working with him was that rehearsal is key to a wholesome performance." Manuj recalls the first day of his audition and meeting with Tamil filmmaker duo Pushkar-Gayathri. "I was shortlisted and the directors Gayathri and Pushkar met me. It was a 10 minute meeting that went on for an hour. They asked me about my background and I tried to figure out their way of working. I tried to understand their thinking process for the film." He shares further his working experience in the film and why the project is so special to him. "They had also made the original which was a stellar movie. The movie is important for me because I love thrillers. I have grown up hearing the tales of Vikram and Betaal so to play a part in retelling of your favourite folklore is special. I have been huge fans of Saif sir and Hrithik sir. I play a cop for the first time also." Written and directed by Pushkar-Gayathri, 'Vikram Vedha' features Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan in lead roles along with Radhika Apte, Rohit Saraf and Yogita Bihani. Chandigarh, Oct 3 : Farmers under the aegis of Kisan Mazdur Sangarash Committee (KMSC) held protest and rail roko prorgramme at 17 different places in Punjab on Monday to mark the anniversary of Lakhimpur Kheri incident. It may be noted that eight persons including four farmers had died during a protest in Lakhimpur Kheri on October 3, 2021. In Amritsar, farmers also blocked the Amritsar-Delhi rail track at Vallah, demanding stern action against the person responsible for the incident. Addressing the gathering, General Secretary, KMSC, Sarwan Singh Pandher alleged "The conspirator of the Lakhimpur Kheri massacre is still enjoying prime post while the innocent farmers present at the site of the incident have been sent to jail after registration of cases against them." Another farmer leader Gurbachan Singh Chaba said the success of the Delhi farmer's agitation was due to the sacrifice of 750 protesters and Lakhimpur Kheri 'martyrdom' was one of the most significant among them. "Through today's rail roko agitation we demand that farmers should be released and killers of farmers should be hanged and appropriate action should be taken against those responsible for the Lakhmipur Kheri," said Chaba. Chennai, Oct 3 : The Kuravars of Tamil Nadu has come out strongly against the Narikuravar identifying as the same community, contending that while Kuravars were basically from Tamil Nadu, the Narikuravars had migrated to the state from Maharashtra and Gujarat. The objection came in the wake of the Narikuravar community being included as Scheduled Tribe by the Union government while the Kuravar community is still included under the SC category. Kuranjuyar Makkal Kootamalaippu Vice President M.N. Chandran told IANS that the Kuravars are natives of Tamil Nadu and were mentioned in ancient Tamil literature including the "Silapatthikaram" and "Manimegalai". He said that as they are the original Kuravar community, the Narikuravar community must not use the tag name Kuravars. "The Narikuravars are from Maharashtra and Gujarat and are nomads while we were in Tamil Nadu for centuries, doing cattle rearing and farming in the hilly areas. The Narikuravar community is named Kuruvikarar and speaks the Vaagri language and not Tamil," he claimed. He said that yesteryear Tamil movies used to name Narikuruvar as Kuravars and this led to a feeling among the common people and the administration that Narikuravar (Kuruvikarar) and Kuravars are one and the same. Talking to IANS, Narikuravar Community Welfare Association Secretary, S. Sathyakumar said: "We are thankful to the Government for including us under the Scheduled Tribe category. The Kauravar community is raising objections against us and stating that we are migrants from Maharashtra and Gujarat. In fact, I and my father were born in Tamil Nadu itself and most of us from the community know how to read, write and speak Tamil." While the Union government has included the Narikuravar community as Scheduled Tribe but the gazette notification reclassifying the community from OBC category to ST is yet to come. Sources in the Tamil Nadu Tribal Welfare Department told IANS that the Kuravar community can also submit applications for categorising them into the ST category from the present status and after proper studies, the department will recommend it to the Central government, if required. Varanasi, Oct 3 : The services of a guest lecturer at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth University in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi has been terminated after protests over his alleged derogatory social media post on the Hindu festival of Navaratri. Prof Mithilesh Gautam had put up a social media post where he shared that women should not keep fast for nine days during Navaratri, instead they should read the Constitution. His post received flak from a section of students, who protested against the professor. On September 29, a complaint was filed against Gautam with the college authorities. The Registrar of the university said that the post on social media hurt "religious sentiments" and in view of students' protests, the environment at the college was disrupted. Examinations and admissions have come to a halt as well, the Registrar said. Following the complaint, Gautam was barred from entering university and has now been dismissed from services 'with immediate effect'. Meanwhile, students supporting Gautam have submitted an application with the university authority to withdraw action taken against him. Latest updates on Navratri Festival 2022 Canberra, Oct 3 : In Dongara, some 351 km northwest of Perth, more than a century-old leather-bound book containing entries written in Gurmukhi - the official script of the Punjabi language - has been found. The discovery was confirmed by Tarun Preet Singh of the Sikh Association of Western Australia (SAWA), who went to Dongara in person to see the newly-discovered treasure, which offers rare insight into the largely forgotten Sikh community of Dongara, the SBS Punjabi reported. Sikhs are known to have arrived in Australia in the mid-nineteenth century and found work as hawkers, cane cutters, and camel drivers. In the early part of the 20th century, they became active with the wrestling circuit all over Australia. "The gurdwara in Canning Vale got an email that some old leather ledger with transactions written in Punjabi script had been found and that the Western Australia Museum wanted help with the translations," Singh told SBS Punjabi. Singh, who is actively engaged in uncovering Sikh history in Australia, said that the ledger shows that even 100 years ago, Sikh settlers were established businessmen in Australia and carried out their day-to-day transactions in their own language. He credited the discovery of the ledger to the Western Australia Museum's search efforts to find old artifacts as a part of its expansion programme. "Someone found it from the ashes... it didn't get burnt due to their thickness," Singh said. The Geraldton and Dongara areas were booming regions for the pioneer Sikhs of Western Australia (belonging to the Indian ethnicity), including Sojan Singh, Pola Singh, Ruhr Singh, and Anzac Nain Singh Sailani, who all belonged to these regions. Sojan Singh was one of the few early Punjabi settlers of Western Australia, who owned a store and even a holiday home in Donagara. The earliest recorded evidence of a Sikh being in Western Australia was Pal Singh who arrived in Perth in 1886. He was a camel owner and settled in Wyndham, according to SAWA. Now, the Sikhs form one of the largest subgroups of Indian Australians with 210,000 adherents according to the 2021 census, having grown from 12,000 in 1996, 17,000 in 2001, 26,500 in 2006, and 72,000 in 2011. Ghaziabad, Oct 3 : A youth has been arrested with a countrymade pistol and a knife at a temple in Ghaziabad. The police are interrogating him to ascertain the motive behind his visit to the temple. National president of the Hindu Raksha Sena, Swami Prabodhanand Giri, was staying at the temple. "He is a Muslim man. He wanted to kill me by entering the temple as a Hindu," Swami Prabodhanand Giri alleged. The security at the temple has been increased. Swami Prabodhanand Giri is originally from Baghpat district, UP. He mostly stays in a Haridwar ashram. He had come to Ghaziabad on the call of the temple servicemen. The incident took place at Narmadeshwar Mahadev temple in village Ekla Inayatpur of Mussoorie police station area in Ghaziabad. "A person came to the temple on Sunday evening. He said that he wanted to become a disciple of Swami Prabodhanand Giri," the temple servitors said. "He stayed in the temple at night. There was some doubt about the man on Monday morning. After this, the luggage of the youth was checked and weapons like a pistol, knife were recovered from the bag. During inquiry, this person said his name is Sameer, but on ID proof his name was Aas Mohammad. On information, the police reached the temple and took this person into custody," the temple staff stated. SP Rural Ghaziabad, Iraj Raja said, "A person has been caught by the temple staff with suspicious items and countrymade pistol. On getting information, the police reached the spot immediately. This person has come here before and was staying in the ashram. He is being interrogated. It is not yet clear what was the purpose of his temple visit," the SP said. Security has been tightened at the temple in view of the incident. The name of the youth, who has been caught, has come as Sameer, a resident of Dadri. It is being investigated whether he is a Hindu or a Muslim. Swami Prabodhanand Giri said, "Under the international jihadi plan, a person named Aas Mohammad had brought a countrymade pistol, knife with the intent to kill me. He came wearing a sage-mahatma lungi and said his name as Sameer. He confessed in front of everyone that he has come with Rs one lakh taken from a person named Salim and has been doing reccee of Maharaj for many days. The police have caught him." Press Release October 3, 2022 SENATOR MARK VILLAR LAUDS THE CONTINUATION OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT UNDER PRESIDENT BONGBONG MARCOS' BUILD BETTER MORE President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos was joined by Senator Mark A. Villar to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Metro Manila Subway on Monday, 03 October 2022. The Ortigas and Shaw Boulevard Stations and Tunnels are part of Contract Package 104 (CP104) of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP). "I'm glad to see that President Bongbong Marcos' BUILD BETTER MORE program will continue the country's Golden Age of Infrastructure. Continuity is very significant in terms of infrastructure development in the country", Senator Mark Villar said. One of the major infrastructure projects in the Philippines, the Metro Manila Subway will build an effective rail network in the National Capital Region (NCR). The CP104, with a contract for PhP17.75 billion to be built by the chosen contractor, Tokyu-Tobishima Megawide Joint Venture, is a part of its first phase (TTM-JV). "During my term as DPWH Secretary, I remember the time when this project was being conceptualized. Many were doubtful but here we are here today, realizing the project that has come to fruition. This world-class subway only proves that we can be on par with other developed countries," Sen. Mark Villar said. With assistance and funding from the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is aiming to partially commence operations of the subway in 2025. "We envisioned that this subway system is efficient, operational, and resilient using Japanese technology. Inaasahan natin na ang Metro Manila Subway ay maghahatid sa ating mga commuters sa mas mabilis na oras sa kanilang destinasyon. Ang dating matagal na oras na inilalaan sa biyahe ay mas mailalalaan na sa pamilya", Sen. Villar added. Senator Mark Villar was the former DPWH Secretary who was instrumental in achieving the Golden Age of Infrastructure paving the way for the accomplishment of 29,264 kilometers of roads, 5,950 bridges, 11,340 flood mitigation structures, and the improvement of 906 kilometers of access roads to airports, seaports, and railway stations. "Rest assured that we will continuously support projects that will help and improve the transportation sector of the country. We will ensure that a comfortable life for all is attained because this is what every Filipino commuter deserves. Mass transportation should remain to be one of our top priorities" Villar ended. Pune, Oct 3 : As Maharashtra braces for an unprecedented political development of 'two Shiv Sena' Dassehra rallies crossing words and swords on Wednesday, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar on Monday advised both Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and former CM Uddhav Thackeray "not to cross the limit". Both factions of the Sena led by Thackeray and Shinde will hold their Vijaya Dashami rallies at Shivaji Park and Bandra Kurla Complex grounds, respectively, under the common party name and an embittered ambience after the Maha Vikas Aghadi government was toppled in June. Referring to this, Pawar, 82 said that political conflicts are nothing new, but they should be within limits, otherwise it will not be good for the state. Urging senior and responsible leaders to come forward to enhance the political atmosphere in the state, he said the prime responsibility for this was vested with the Chief Minister of the state. "He (Shinde) is also the leader of the 14 crore people of Maharashtra and thus has more responsibilities. We can only hope that both sides (Shinde and Thackeray) will conduct themselves in such a manner that bitterness does not further increase," Pawar told media persons here. He said if both the (Sena) factions ensure that they will not cross the limits to provoke acrimony, it will improve the state political situation. To a query whether the Nationalist Congress Party is supporting the Thackeray rally, Pawar said it is the Sena's event while another separate is being organised by the Shinde Group. Earlier today, NCP chief spokesperson Mahesh Tapase declared that the Thackeray-led faction is the "real Shiv Sena" though the decision is pending with the Election Commission. He said that the "real Shiv Sena" carried forward the ideals of its founder the late Balasaheb Thackeray, through Uddhav Thackeray, though two separate rallies are being organised this year in Mumbai. "One is of the traditions, self-respect, loyalty and philosophy of Balasaheb, that is the Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray, though the EC decision is pending," said Tapase. Meanwhile, in the run-up to the rallies, both the Thackeray and Shinde factions have launched an all-out war to woo the Shiv Sainiks, releasing 'teasers', distributing invites and full-fledged preparations to lure the maximum numbers. Both groups are hoping to outshine each other on their individual turf as a statement of the popularity levels and the credibility they enjoy among the masses on the auspicious Vijaya Dashami Day. Latest updates on Navratri Festival 2022 India's defence exports to various countries have increased manifold in recent years, the latest deal is to export Indian rocket launchers to Armenia. According to reports, India would supply the 'Pinaka' multi-rocket launcher system, which can fire a salvo of 12 HE rockets in 44 seconds to Armenia besides anti-tank missiles and a variety of ammunition as part of a package agreement. The complete details of these armaments have not yet been disclosed. Pinaka saw service during the Kargil War, where it was successful in neutralising enemy positions on the mountaintops. While the deal's value has not been disclosed, the report claims armament worth $250 million or Rs 2,000 crore would be sold over the next few months. The deal was signed earlier this month and supplies are to be fast-tracked. It is not the first time that Armenia has received weapons equipment from India. In 2020, India triumphed over Russia and Poland in a $40 million defence agreement with Armenia providing it with four indigenous 'Swathi' counter-battery radars. This disclosure comes days after India called on the "aggressor side" in fresh fighting along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border to "immediately cease hostilities" without directly naming Azerbaijan. Latest fighting erupted between the two sides on September 13. India's defence exports Meanwhile, it seems the Armenian-Azerbaijan conflict has helped India to boost its arms exports. According to reports, India recently announced figures for the highest-ever defence export growth that swelled by a staggering 334 per cent over the last five years. In fact, India is chasing an even higher target. In 2020, the Narendra Modi government had set a target of Rs 35,000 crore ($5 billion) export in aerospace, and defence goods and services in the next five years. This is part of the turnover of Rs 1.75 lakh crore ($25 billion) in defence manufacturing by 2025 that the government is aiming to achieve. India's defence exports touched a record Rs 13,000 crore in 2021-22, "eight times" of what it was around five years ago. Besides the strategic importance of the deal with Armenia, the export order is a boost for the indigenous defence industry with the Indian government keen to increase the value of Indian arms exports. India had also signed a contract with the Philippines in January 2022 for the sale of BrahMos missiles. Currently, India exports defence equipment to 75 countries and these include weapon simulators, tear gas launcher, torpedo loading mechanism, alarm monitoring & control, night vision monocular & binocular, light-weight torpedo & fire control systems, armoured protection vehicle, weapons locating radar, high-frequency radio, coastal surveillance radar among others. Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict The issue of the conclave of Nagorno-Karabakh has always been the bone of contention between Armenia and Azerbaijan ever since the two countries became independent republics, after gaining independence from the erstwhile USSR. The disputed region of agorno-Karabakh lies in Azerbaijan and is inhabited mostly by ethnic Armenians. The conflict escalated into a full-scale war in the early 1990s which later transformed into alow-intensity conflict until four-day escalation in April 2016 and then into another full-scale war in 2020. A ceasefire signed in 1994 in Bishkek was followed by two decades of relative stability, which significantly deteriorated along with Azerbaijan's increasing frustration with the status quo, at odds with Armenia's efforts to cement it. Azerbaijan, for one, has received backing from its traditional allies and supporters, Turkey and Israel. During the 2020 skirmish between the two combatants, Baku turned the tide in its favour by overwhelmingly deploying Turkish Bayraktar and Israeli kamikaze drones. While Armenia has often turned to Russia for support, Moscow's preoccupation with the on-going war against Ukraine has resulted in not a very supportive response, this time. In the face of rising hostilities and little military aid, the defence deal with India may prove to be a shot in the arm for a beleaguered Armenia. Azerbaijan-Turkey-Pakistan relationship India's military assistance for Armenia comes against the backdrop of its regional rival's bonhomie with Azerbaijan. Pakistan has consistently backed Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and has refused to establish diplomatic ties and legally recognise Armenia as an independent state. Azerbaijan is seen by many as part of an emerging axis with Turkey and Pakistan. It has used Turkish drones to fight war against Armenia, and is also in talks with Pakistan to buy the JF-17 fighter aircraft. In 2017, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan had signed a Trilateral Ministers Agreement that established security cooperation, and built upon previous bilateral military aid arrangements. These three countries also conducted a joint exercise named 'Three Brothers' last year. The rise of Azerbaijan with increased Turkey-Pakistan military cooperation is a direct warning to India. Azerbaijan has acquired many deadly weapons by increasing friendship with Turkey and Pakistan in the name of Islam. Indian fears that other countries may also go along this route in the name of Islamic countries are not unfounded. However, in spite of these developments, an interesting fact is that India has stronger economic ties with Azerbaijan than with Armenia. Indian company ONGC has also invested heavily in Azerbaijan's gas sector. The Indian bilateral trade with Azerbaijan in 2019 stood at $1,093 million, while with Armenia it was only $48 million in 2020. Broadly this latest defence deal will place India as one of the emerging global powers with rising defence exports capability. In addition it will also allow it to play a significant role in the central Asian republics and regionally, both. (Asad Mirza is a political commentator based in New Delhi. He writes on Indian Muslims, educational, international affairs, interfaith and current affairs) Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War Chandigarh, Oct 3 : With the Congress and the BJP abstaining, the AAP government in Punjab led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann won the vote of confidence with a thumping majority on the final day of the Assembly session. The lone Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and BSP MLAs were present in the House but did not speak against the motion. A total of 93 legislators voted in favour of the confidence vote. "I congratulate the people of Punjab for naming the Mohali airport as Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport. I will try to get Halwara airport named after Kartar Singh Sarabha," Mann said. Terming the Congress and the BJP as two faces of the same coin, Mann had earlier said the confidence motion was necessitated as both the parties have joined hands to topple the democratically-elected government in the state. "The BJP is using anti-defection law as a new tool to form governments in the state through the backdoor and unfortunately despite of being its worst victim, the Congress is supporting it," he said, while introducing the confidence motion on the first day of the Assembly session on September 27. The Chief Minister had said the BJP has toppled the elected governments in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and others by luring MLAs. However, he had said they failed in their sinister moves thrice in Delhi and now also in Punjab, they were trying to purchase the MLAs. He said the BJP is chasing a mirage of garnering power in the state. Pune, Oct 3 : Throwing cold water on Congress leader Ashok Chavan's recent claims, Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar said he was not aware whether the Shiv Sena wanted to dump the Bharatiya Janata Party and ally with the Congress-NCP to form a government in 2017. While interacting with mediapersons here, Pawar was queried on Chavan's claim last week that a Shiv Sena delegation comprising Eknath Shinde - presently the Chief Minister - had met him in his office with such a proposal to snap ties with BJP and join hands for a Sena-Congress-NCP government then. Chavan had even said that he had informed the delegation that he would first put it up before the NCP and then after its approval take it to the Congress high command, though nothing moved later. "I don't know... Nobody even made such a proposal to the NCP. If it was so, I would have known something about it," Pawar said almost dismissively. He said though the NCP leaders have the right to make decisions, they keep him posted of such developments, and whatever Chavan had said, he had never heard of it before. Almost simultaneously, even senior Shiv Sena leader Chandrakant Khaire had made a similar claim that in 2014, a group of 15 MLAs including Shinde had met Congress leaders with a proposal to work out a Sena-Congress-NCP alliance government. (IANS report - September 29). Khaire, who was backed by senior Sena leaders like Vinayak Raut and others, said that there was no further development in the matter, though the BJP leaders attempted to turn the tables on the Sena over the issue. The claims by Congress-Sena leaders last week had embarrassed the Shinde Group which has been claiming that they had rebelled against Shiv Sena President and ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray as he allied with the Congress-NCP after the 2019 elections and had jettisoned the Hindutva agenda of the late Balasaheb Thackeray. Chennai, Oct 3 : The minority wing of BJP has demanded a ban of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the political arm of the banned Popular Front of India. BJP minority wing national secretary, Vellore Syed Ibrahim, called upon the Ministry of Home Affairs to ban the Social Democratic Party of India. Ibrahim was speaking to reporters after visiting the residence of RSS leader, V.K. Rajan, whose house was attacked allegedly by SDPI activists. He said that two SDPI activists have been arrested following the attack, and called upon the government to ban the outfit which is the political arm of the Popular Front of India. Ibrahim said that the BJP and RSS are not against Muslims and accused Dalit leader Thol Thirumavalavan of misguiding the Muslim youth. He said that both these leaders are creating a wrong impression among the Muslim youth regarding the recent NIA raids on the Popular Front of India. Hyderabad, Oct 3 : Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao has reached out to Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav to enquire about the health condition of his father and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Mulayam Singh Yadav. Rao's office stated that the chief minister had telephoned Akhilesh Yadav on Monday. Mulayam Singh Yadav, 82, who has been undergoing treatment at a Gurugram hospital over the last few days, had been shifted to the intensive care unit on Sunday after his condition deteriorated. KCR, as the Telangana chief minister is popularly known, had told Mulayam that he will meet him in Delhi after the Dasara festival, a statement from the chief minister's office stated. KCR is expected to announce the launch of his national party on October 5 in Hyderabad following which he is likely to organise a public meeting in Delhi on October 9. KCR's son K.T. Rama Rao has also been following up on Mulayam Singh Yadav's health status. The TRS working president and Telangana industries minister said that he has spoken to Akhilesh Yadav regarding his father's health. "Telephoned Uttar Pradesh former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav Ji and inquired about the well-being of Mulayam Singh Ji, who is hospitalized. My best wishes & prayers for Sri Mulayam Ji's speedy recovery," he tweeted. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The 4th International Conference on Vajrayana Buddhism with the theme "Modernity of Buddhism" is being held in Thimpu, Bhutan under the auspices of the Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies (CBS) and the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan in close collaboration with International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), India. Eminent practitioners, teachers, scientific researchers, academics and independent scholars are discussing the central theme at the four-day conference. The Keynote address was delivered by the Hon'ble Prime minister of Bhutan, His Excellency Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering. A 17-member delegation of IBC is participating in the Conference. Members of the delegation include experts on Vajrayana Buddhism. The delegation is led by Ven. Dr. Dhammapiya, Secretary General, IBC. The Conference brings together about 400 participants, including 250 internationals representing 26 countries. A press release from the CBS stated that Modernity of Buddhism is another way of saying that most of the insights into Buddhism can be explored as being timelessly relevant or to say that it is not antiquated. The broad theme of the Conference enabled diverse contributions through papers, panel discussions and practice workshops. Speakers addressed ways in which Vajrayana Buddhism had developed across time and geographies and the ways in which its philosophy and practices can actively contribute to global wellbeing and transformation as the world emerges from the pandemic. The Conference examines the ways in which Vajrayana Buddhism continues to creatively adapt to the modern world. Some of the papers included: Connectivity, compassion, and social engagement in Buddhism; Learning "how to be" for a truly sustainable civilization: Rediscovering the Buddhist virtues of contentment of the joy of "simply being"; Mindful awareness as the foundation of the Buddhist path, and a way to bridge ancient wisdom and modern psychology; Global adaptations and evolving forms of Vajrayana Buddhism in the West; Redefining values and priorities in a frantic world: the power of Buddhist reflections on living, growing, aging, dying, and beyond, and Women and yoginis in Buddhism. These were just a few areas of presentations and discussions among many others at the Bhutan Conference on Vajrayana Buddhism. New Delhi, Oct 3 : India's producer price increase to the highest ever should not only surprise investors but also reduce past decade of skepticism on quality of returns for hydrocarbon producers, foreign brokerage, Morgan Stanley said in a report. While the hike was in line with our estimates and benefits ONGC, OIL and RIL, Gujarat Gas remains our key underweight, Morgan Stanley said. In the biannual revision, India's domestic gas prices rose by 40% from US$6.10/mmbtu to US$8.57/mmbtu, in line with domestic gas prices seen in multiple geographies, but slightly above mid-cycle gas prices seen globally for domestically produced gas. Producer prices for deepwater gas fields were raised by 25% to US$12.50/mmbtu. We think the hike highlights the government's focus on energy security and reduces concerns on domestic gas price caps by the government, considering news flow over recent months. We expect producer gas prices to decline and average US$6-7/mmbtu medium term as gas markets tighten slightly but keep global benchmark prices at elevated levels,Morgan Stanley said. The rise in the producer price would necessitate an 8-10% increase in CNG consumer prices regardless of depreciation of the rupee. While certain players like Adani Gas announced a 4-5% price hike over the weekend, we estimate a staggered increase to follow from the other city gas distributors. CNG gas demand growth has been robust over the past year at an 8% CAGR vs. pre-Covid, despite a 70% price hike by likes of IGL. The CNG price hike should lower the discount to alternative fuels like gas and diesel from 15-40% currently to 15-25%, Morgan Stanley said. We think higher allocation of domestic gas and flexibility to source its own LNG will help IGL manage its margins better, Morgan Stanley said. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Sandeep Kumar Gupta on Monday assumed charge as Chairman and Managing Director, GAIL (India) Ltd. After taking over, he addressed the employees of the company and recognized the balanced business portfolio of the company built over time and overall contribution to development of natural gas sector in the country, the contributions of his predecessors and support of stakeholders including Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and employees, which have played a key role in the growth witnessed by GAIL over the years. He mentioned that the Company is aligned with the government's vision of having a gas-based economy wherein the share of natural gas in the energy mix is to be taken to 15 per cwent by year 2030. He expressed his confidence in the outlook of the company which is relentlessly professing its growth path in the natural gas value chain. The company, which had started with a single pipeline project in 1984, now owns and operates a truly diversified business portfolio including over 14,500 km of natural gas pipeline network, and an LNG Sourcing portfolio of around 14 MTPA. Gupta added that the company has carved out a robust petrochemical expansion move to further strengthen its business. It is operating Gas Processing Units and LPG transmission networks, producing LPG and liquid hydrocarbon products. It also has considerable presence in renewable energy like Solar and Wind, and endeavours in new energy segments like hydrogen production, CBG, Shipping, Small Scale LNG Liquefaction, Gas/LNG Storage, Bunkering etc. to create a future energy landscape. GAIL, he said, is well positioned with future ready ventures. Gupta is a Commerce Graduate and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. Before joining GAIL, he held the position of Director (Finance) since August 2019 on the Board of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, the leading PSU integrated Energy Company in Fortune "Global 500", and several group companies. He has a wide experience of over 34 years of Oil and Gas Industry. Mumbai, Oct 3 : Bollywood actor Siddhant Chaturvedi, who is currently gearing up for the release of 'Phone Bhoot', visited a Durga Puja pandal in Mumbai on Monday where he expressed how the festival of Navratri is special for him. During his visit to the pandal, he was seen sporting a casual kurta-pyjama. The actor addressed the audience as he spoke about his memories related to the festival of Durga Puja. The 'Gully Boy' actor said, "My mother is from Kolkata. When I was a kid, I used to go to Kolkata for my summer holidays, so whenever Durga Puja was organised there, it used to be a big occasion with the whole family. I have some connection with it from my childhood." He further mentioned that because of his busy schedule, he couldn't go to Kolkata this time around but coming down to the pandal in Mumbai brought in a very special feeling for him. On the work front, Siddhant will be next seen in 'Phone Bhoot' with Katrina Kaif and Ishaan Khatter and 'Yudhra' where he takes on a heavy dose of action. Agartala : Workers are transporting the (VVPAT) Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail machine, Reached today at Agartala from Hyderabad ECIL (Electronics Corporation of India Limited ), to the warehouse in front of government officials and people from Image Source: IANS News Agartala : Workers are transporting the trunks, full of EVM (Electronic Voting Machine) to the warehouse in front of government officials and people from election commision, for upcoming Assembly Election in Tripuraon Monday, October 03,2022. (Photo: Image Source: IANS News Agartala : Workers are transporting the (VVPAT) Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail machine, Reached today at Agartala from Hyderabad ECIL (Electronics Corporation of India Limited ), to the warehouse in front of government officials and people from Image Source: IANS News Agartala/Kohima, Oct 3 : The Election Commission has started preparations for holding the Assembly elections in three northeastern states -- Tripura, Nagaland, and Meghalaya. The elections to Tripura, Meghalaya, and Nagaland are expected to be held in February next year after the Assembly polls in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. An election official in Agartala on Monday said that the EC has sent around 5,000 Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), manufactured by the Hyderabad-based Electronic Corporation of India Ltd, by 15 big contenarised trucks. "In presence of the representatives of the political parties, we have stored these EVMs here with adequate security measures. The EVMs would soon be provided to all the sub-divisions," the official told IANS. The official said that the National level Master Trainers (NLMT) appointed by the Election Commission last week have given training to all the eight District Magistrates and Additional District Magistrates on every important matters for the proper management of the election. In Nagaland, resource persons from the Election Commission and the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management, recently conducted a two-day training programme for the Deputy Commissioners and District Election Officers to equip the district level officials with knowledge and skill for the elections. Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer V. Shashank Shekhar emphasised the important role played by the district electoral machinery headed by the Deputy Commissioners and District Election Officers in the overall conduct and management of the entire electoral process. Training of district level officials on conduct of assembly polls would also be held in Meghalaya. New Delhi, Oct 3 : All higher education institutions in India may soon appoint a special officer to help foreign students for visa related difficulties. In the wake of large inflow of foreign students coming to India for education, non-availability of a designated person to be contacted by foreigners' regional registration offices (FRROs)/foreigners' registration offices (FROs) at the educational institutes, while processing service applications, is leading to unnecessary delays, difficulties and unintentional violations of visa norms by the foreigners causing undue harassment of foreign students. Addressing the problem of foreign students, Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC, said, "Looking into this, we have written to all the higher educational institutions to appoint compliance officers to coordinate with FRROs and FROs for ascertaining facts in respect of foreign students during grant of various services like visa registration, visa extension, exit permit etc. along with their attendance, academic performance and other academic records." UGC has also asked the HEIs to disseminate this information to all the colleges and institutes affiliated to the Universities. Earlier, UGC had already written to HEIs to establish an Office for International Affairs. Many HEIs have already established this office. A staff member from this office can be designated as the compliance officer to coordinate with FRROs and FROs. Earlier, UGC had made it clear that all those international students seeking admission through Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in University Grants Commission (UGC) recognized/entitled online programmes will not need passport as compulsory proof of identification. "The Second Amendment Regulations, 2022 has changed the compulsory identifier 'Passport' for international students to 'any national Identity with photograph' of country of residence for the admissions through MEA in UGC recognised/entitled online programmes," Kumar said. This important amendment was done a couple of months back. The amendment is for the Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes Regulation to promote more and more international students to join Indian Universities' online programmes without difficulty through MEA driven projects in UGC recognised/entitled online programmes, Kumar said. Patna, Oct 3 : A minor boy was brutally assaulted in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district on Monday. The incident took place after some 'strongmen' of Dabholi village under Changel panchayat in the Katra police station area in the district held him guilty of stealing a weighing scale from a shop. A video of the incident went viral on social media where the miscreants can be seen brutally assaulting the boy and forcing him to lick spit while he pleads to be released. The incident came to the notice of the police when they spotted the video on social media. "We immediately sent a team to the village to identify the accused on the basis of the video. We have also conducted a medical examination of the victim and recorded his statement. Efforts are on to nab the assailaints" said SK Yadav, the investigating officer from Katra police station. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently questioning a Russian man, who is said to be the prime accused in a case related to allegations of irregularities committed in the JEE (Mains) Exams 2021. The accused Milhail Shargin was detained by the Bureau of Immigration at IGI Airport, Delhi while arriving in India from Kazakhstan's Almaty as a Look Out Circular was opened against him. During investigation, it came to light that some foreign nationals were involved in compromising many online examinations including JEE (Mains) in collusion with other accused in the instant case. The role of a Russian national, who had allegedly tampered with the iLeon software (the platform on which the JEE(Main)-2021 examination was conducted), was revealed and it was alleged that he helped other accused in hacking the computer systems of suspect candidates during the examination. A Look Out Circular was opened against the Russian national. A case was registered in 2021 against a private company and others including its Directors and three employees, private persons (conduits) etc on the allegations that the said company and its Directors were manipulating the online examination of JEE (Mains) and facilitating aspiring students to get admission in top NITs in consideration of huge amount by solving the question paper of the applicant through remote access from a chosen examination centre in Haryana's Sonepat. "Shargin used to obtain Class 10 and 12 mark sheets, the user IDs, passwords, and post dated cheques of aspiring students in different parts of country as security and once the admission was done, they used to collect heavy amount ranging from Rs 12-15 lakh per candidate," the CBI said. Searches were earlier conducted on in 2021 at 19 places including at Delhi, NCR, Pune, Jamshedpur, Indore and Bengaluru which led to the recovery of 25 laptops, 7 PCs, around 30 post-dated cheques along with incriminating documents, including mark sheet of different students. "We are questioning Shargin. He is the prime accused," said the CBI. Aizawl, Oct 3 : Over 6,000 children of Myanmarese refugees, who have taken shelter in Mizoram since March last year following the military coup there, are enrolled in government and private schools across the state, officials said. Mizoram Education Department officials said that of the 6,195 Myanmarese children, 5,221 were enrolled in government schools, 184 in government-aided institutes and 790 in private schools up to Class 10 across the state. The Education Department referring to the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act-2009), has earlier asked all the district and sub-divisional education officers that children aged between 6 and 14 years belonging to disadvantaged communities have the right to be admitted to schools in a class appropriate to his/her age for completing elementary education. Some Myanmar parliamentarians and parents earlier requested Mizoram Education Minister Lalchhandama Ralte to "look into the academic and other problems" of the Myanmarese children and the state government then issued the notification about enrolment of the Myanmar child refugees. The children do not face any language problem with the textbooks and other materials of Mizoram's academic syllabus as most of them belong to the Chin community who share the same ancestry and culture as the Mizos of Mizoram and also speak the Mizo language. Recently, the Mizoram University and the Institute of Chin Affairs (ICA), a non-government organisation, decided to introduce diploma courses in Burmese language and communication skills at the central varsity. As per official records, majority of around 30,400 Myanmar refugees including 11,798 children and 10,047 women are sheltered in Mizoram in over 156 camps in all the 11 districts while a large number of them took shelter in the relatives' houses, community, centres, rented houses, government buildings and shelter houses set up by various NGOs including the Young Mizo Association, one of the largest NGOs in northeast India. The Mizoram government has provided temporary identity cards to the refugees for identification purposes to differentiate the holder from Indian citizens and the ID card is not valid for availing the government's scheme and outside Mizoram. There are 14 lawmakers of Myanmar who are also among those who fled the trouble-torn country and took refuge in Mizoram. The Myanmarese are provided with food, medicines and other relief materials by the state government, NGOs, churches and village authorities. The Myanmar nationals fled across the over 500-km-long unfenced border into Mizoram since the military junta led by army chief General Min Aung Hlaing seized power in the neighbouring country in February last year. Bengaluru, Oct 3 : The Bharat Jodo Yatra led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi completed its fourth day in Karnataka on Monday, with the party claiming to have received "good response" from its workers as well as the people in the state's Chamarajanagar, Mysuru and Mandya districts. Rahul Gandhi, the former Congress president, has been criticising the state's ruling BJP in the rallies over issues such as corruption and communalism. He continued his attack on Monday by claiming "Karnataka has the most corrupt government in India". Addressing a gathering in Mandya district, he said the Basavaraj Bommai-led government in Karnataka charges 40 per cent commission from farmers, labourers, small and medium businessmen. He said though the state's contractors wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about "40 per cent commission", he did not take any action. On its 26th day, amid the colourful and lively Dasara festivities, the Bharat Jodo Yatra marched on from Mysore towards the ancient temple town of Srirangapatna in Mandya district, and reached Pandavapura town, as planned. Meanwhile, the arrival of Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi in Karnataka is said to have lifted the spirits of Congress members in the state. The party has announced that she would take part in Bharat Jodo Yatra on October 6. Rahul Gandhi also visited and offered prayers at the renowned St Philomena's Church and the Dargah in Mysore. While walking towards Srirangapatna, he interacted with one Ayub Ahmed, a resident of Mysuru. Ayub is popularly known as the "messiah of unclaimed bodies" as he has been transporting and performing the last rites to the unclaimed bodies for the last 18 years, specially during the Covid pandemic when he ensured last rites for more than 300 deceased individuals. He also met Pa Mallesh, a senior socialist leader along with 6 other civil society members. They collectively handed over a transcript on secularism and the duty of the state delivered by Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. The Congress leader also interacted with Mangala, a woman autorickshaw driver who has been an inspiration to many young women towards becoming independent and self-empowered. He then visited Chamundeshwari temple and sought the blessings of Chamundeshwari Devi. During the padyatra, Rahul Gandhi walked 12 km in the morning session, and then stopped for lunch at the Parivartana School. The yatris enjoyed the local cuisine and got to taste the famous Mysore Pak. The padyatra then continued ahead of schedule and marched towards Pandavapura covering further a distance of 10 km. On the occasion of Dasara, the Bharat Jodo Yatra will now take a pause for 2 days in Mysore, and the yatris will get to experience the famous Mysuru Dasara. Meanwhile, the ruling BJP is keenly observing the development related to the Bharat Jodo Yatra, and the support to it. The party has decided to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to the state in the month of October. According to sources, the BJP is keen to divert the attention of people from the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Jammu, Oct 3 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah landed in Jammu on Monday on a 3-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. He is accompanied by Union Minister Jitendra Singh and senior officers of the MHA. Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Arun Mehta and other senior civil and police officers received the home minister at the technical area of Jammu airport. Senior local BJP leaders, Ravinder Raina, Nirmal Singh and others were also present. Shah is staying at the Raj Bhavan for the night. Officials said he will pay obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine on Tuesday morning and from there he will fly to Rajouri district of Jammu division, where he is scheduled to address a public rally. BJP sources said the home minister is likely to announce reservations for the Pahari community of J&K as STs. Same sources said Shah could also announce regularisation of daily wagers in the UT, a long pending demand by hundreds of locals working since many years in various government departments. After his Rajouri public rally, Shah will fly to the Valley where he is scheduled to address another public rally in Baramulla district. Shah will also chair a security review meeting which will be attended by the Lt Governor, senior officers of local police, and central armed police forces (CAPFs) and officers of intelligence agencies of the UT and the centre. He will also lay foundation of many developmental works during his stay in J&K including a convention complex in Jammu city. The Lt Governor is hosting a dinner for the home minister on Tuesday evening. Shah will fly back to Delhi on October 5. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Monday that it has attached movable and immovable assets worth Rs 1.05 crore belonging to the former head cashier at the Bank of Maharashtra, Cuttack, Bedabyas Barik, and his wife Sarmila Panda in a PMLA case pertaining to a cheating and fraud case. The ED initiated the money laundering investigation on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI, Bhubaneswar, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. The case was registered against Barik, the erstwhile head cashier at the Bank of Maharashtra, Cuttack, who allegedly defrauded one Sukanti Barick, a Delhi based person, to the tune of Rs 4.78 crore on the pretext of investing her money in various investment schemes of Bank of Maharashtra. The attached properties include balances under eight bank accounts and four land parcels and one flat in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. The ED learnt during the investigation that Barik during the years 2008-2012, by abusing his official position, cheated Barick, the complainant, to the tune of Rs 4.78 crore by resorting to forgery and criminal breach of trust. He lured her to make investments in the schemes of recurring deposit and fixed deposits. Barik furnished fake RD and FD receipts in lieu of the money received from the complainant and used the amount to acquire illegal assets. "Accordingly, the properties acquired by the accused using the proceeds of crime, as identified by investigation, have been attached under Section 5 (1) of PMLA, 2002," the official said. Kolkata, Oct 3 : Tension broke out at a temporary bookstall of CPI-M near a popular Durga Puja Pandal at the busy Rashbehari Avenue Crossing in south Kolkata on Monday, as CPI-M and Trinamool Congress supporters were engaged in altercations and protests over a poster at the book stall. The Indian Marxists, who always stayed away from participating in Durga Puja, usually sets up book stalls for selling Marxist literature as a part of their public relation exercise during the festival days. Accordingly, the party's local committee in that area had also been setting up that book stall near the puja pandal at Rashbehari Avenue Crossing this year as well. According to a statement issued by the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) state committee in West Bengal, a minor tension broke out on late Sunday evening, when a group of local Trinamool Congress activists objected to a poster in the stall that read, "Catch thieves and fill up prisons," apparently targeting the ruling party leaders allegedly involved in the multi-crore West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) scam. The CPI-M leadership alleged that the Trinamool Congress activists also had spoiled the covers of some books at that point of time. On Monday evening, CPI-M activists lead by senior party leaders such as state secretariat member, Kallol Majumdar, party's Rajya Sabha member, Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya and popular film director and party sympathiser, Kamaleshwar Bhattacharya held a protest rally against the incident of late Sunday evening. Soon, the local Trinamool Congress activists reached the spot and altercations broke out between the two groups. There were minor scuffles as well. Later, the police arrested the agitating CPI-M activists including the party leaders. CPI-M state secretary in West Bengal and party's politburo member Md. Salim soon reached the spot. Following his intervention, the selling of Marxist literature at the stall resumed again. Heavy police contingent has been deputed at the spot. Before being arrested, CPI-M state secretariat member, Kallol Majumdar told media persons that the poster only read "catch thieves and fill up prisons". "Nowhere, the poster associated Trinamool Congress with thieves. Then why did the ruling party workers become so agitated? Isn't the reaction on their part a subtle reflection of guilt consciousness?" he questioned. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Monday that it has attached assets worth Rs 49.60 crore of businessman Dhanraj Kochar and his family members in a Prevention of Money Laundering (PMLA) case pertaining to cheating. This is the second attachment in the said case. An attachment of Rs 69.14 crore has already been made by the ED. With the fresh attachment, the total attachment in the matter is Rs 118.74 crore. The ED initiated money laundering investigation on the basis of an FIR registered by CCB, Tamil Nadu Police, against Kochar, his family members and associates under various sections of IPC for cheating and criminal conspiracy. The ED had in 2021 conducted search operations at the residential and business premises and bank lockers of Kochar and his family members and seized Indian currency and jewellery and various incriminating documents. The ED has learnt in the investigation that one M S Hameed and Dhanraj Kochar along with one Abdul Rawoof were the directors of a company - D R Foundations & Estates Private Limited, which was into real estate business. During 2005-06, the properties in Siruseri village under the jurisdiction of Thiruporur sub-registrar office, in 20 documents, were purchased out of funds invested by Hameed and his family members and his business entity Paramount Builders into D R Foundations and Real Estate Pvt. Ltd. and were clandestinely transferred to the names of Kochar and his family members. Some properties were even directly purchased in their names from the funds invested by Hameed in the company. Further investigation of the incriminating documents seized from the search has revealed that several innocents have been cheated likewise by Dhanraj Kochar and his family members. Bengaluru, Oct 3 : Venting his ire as Bengaluru got 43rd rank out of 45 in the garbage-free city category of the nationwide Swachh Sarvekshan cleanliness ranking, entrepreneur and former Infosys Director T.V. Mohandas Pai on Monday termed it a big shame. Launching his attack on social media, Pai, addressing Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, BJP national General Secretary (Organisation) B.L. Sathosh and Bengaluru MPs P.C. Mohan and Tejasvi Surya, said: "Our MLAs and MPs have failed us. Many MLAs are corrupt". "What a disgrace!! India's only global city, the richest city has become a garbage city! We are ashamed!" Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bommai, and Santhosh, he said: "Sir we need urgent reforms, strict action." Compared to previous year's rankings in the category, the position of Bengaluru has further come down by 15 ranks. Commenting on the rankings, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Special Commissioner Harish Kumar has stated that the challenges of urban regions are different and it is not tenable to equate big cities with small urban centres. During the previous year the response was taken from 10,000 persons, and it had been increased to 5 lakh now, he maintained. BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath has stated that there is a dispute between the advisers appointed by the Union government and the BBMP. "We will verify the ranking carefully," he stated. New Delhi, Oct 3 : Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party, responding to Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena's letter questioning the absence of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal from Raj Ghat on Gandhi Jayanti on Sunday, said that he was Gujarat that day and that is why he could not attend the programme. The party also alleged that the letter has been written by the LG "on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's instruction". "CM has always attended Gandhi Jayanti and Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti programmes in the last several years. CM was in Gujarat on that day and that's why he could not attend the programme. "It is important to understand the reason for the LG's letter. The CM addressed a very massive rally in tribal area of Gujarat against empty chairs in PM's programme in Ahmedabad just two days back. PM is livid. This letter has been written by LG on PM's instructions," the AAP said in a statement. In a letter to Kejriwal earlier in the day, the LG underlined the "utter disregard displayed" by the Delhi government in Kejriwal being absent from Raj Ghat and Vijay Ghat on Sunday, on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri. "It is with a deep sense of pain, regret and disappointment that I draw your attention towards the utter disregard displayed by you and the Government headed by you towards the commemoration of Gandhi Jayanti and the Jayanti of Bharat Ratna, Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji yesterday," he said in the letter. Jaipur, Oct 3 : About 3000 participants from India and abroad will participate in Invest Rajasthan Summit being organised by the state government on October 7-8 here even as 520 out of 4,192 MoUs/LOIs have been implemented even before its start, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Monday. "Hence, we have set the theme of the Invest Rajasthan Summit 2022 as 'Committed-Delivered'," he said at a press conference at the CM's residence. He said that road shows were organized at international, national and state levels from November 2021 to September 2022 before the Summit, and 4,192 MoUs/LOIs totalling Rs 10.44 lakh crore signed. Out of these, 520 have been implemented and 1,160 are in various stages of implementation, or a total of 1,680 MoUs or LoIs are under implementation or in the implementation stage, which is about 40 per cent, he said. The foundation stone and inauguration of some of the major MoUs/LOIs will be done at the inauguration ceremony of the summit on October 7. Gehlot also said that the objective of this summit is to attract new investment opportunities available in various growing and developed sectors in Rajasthan. Along with new investments, the other important objectives are employment generation and establishing the state as an industrial destination. The two-day summit will, after the inaugural session in the presence of seberal dignitaries, have parallel sectoral conclaves will be organized on NRR, tourism, startups, future ready sector, and agri business. In these parallel sectoral sessions, eminent personalities from their respective sectors have been invited as speakers. Each session organized under the summit will be different in itself, which will reflect the image of a developed Rajasthan, he said. On the second day, an MSME conclave will be organized to promote the development of small businesses and new investment possibilities available in this area will be discussed. The dignitaries attending the summit include L.N. Mittal of the ArcelorMittal Group, Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group), C.K. Birla of the C.K. Birla Group, Puneet Chatwal of the Indian Hotels Company, Dr Praveer Sinha of Tata Power Company Ltd, Kamal Bali of the Bolyo Group, Ajay Shriram of DCM Shriram, Anil Agarwal of the Vedanta Group, B. Santhanam of St. Gobain, Sanjeev Puri of ITC and many others. Gehlot also said that the energy sector has emerged as the main investment sector with 57 per cent of the proposed investment being in the implementation or under implementation phases of the MoUs/LOIs. Apart from this, chemicals and petrochemicals comprise 18.2 per cent, textiles 9.5 per cent, petroleum and gas 5.9 per cent, and cement 4.6 per cent. Also announcing the winners of Rajasthan Ratna Award on this occasion, he aid that this year it will be given to Justice Dalveer Bhandari, Justice R.M. Lodha, industrialist Anil Agarwal, industrialist L.N. Mittal, Sheen Kauf Nizam, and K.C. Male. Industries and Commerce Minister Shankuntla Rawat, Chief Secretary Usha Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, Veenu Gupta; Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Kuldeep Ranka, Secretary to CM, Gaurav Goyal, BIP Commissioner, Om Kasera, and other senior officers were also present. New Delhi, Oct 3 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday arrested a Russian national for allegedly hacking the iLeon software -- the platform on which the JEE (Mains) 2021 examination was conducted. Mikhail Shargin will be later presented at the Rouse Avenue Court. The CBI is likely to seek his two-week custody. "He was held in course of the ongoing investigation into a case related to allegations of irregularities being committed in the JEE (Mains) Exams 2021. He hacked the software," the CBI said. Shargin was detained by the Bureau of Immigration at the IGI Airport here after arriving in India from Almaty, Kazakhstan. A Look Out Circular was also opened against him. During investigation, it had come to light that some foreign nationals were involved in compromising many online examinations including the JEE (Mains), and colluding with other accused in the case. The role of one Russian national was also revealed who had allegedly tampered with the iLeon software, and that he helped other accused in hacking the computer systems of candidates during the examination. A case was registered in 2021 against a private company and others including its directors and three employees, private persons(conduits) etc., on the allegations of irregularities It was alleged that the said company and its directors were manipulating the online examination of JEE (Mains) and facilitating aspiring students to get admission in top NITs in consideration of huge amount by solving the question paper of the applicant through remote access from a chosen examination centre in Sonepat(Haryana). "Shargin used to obtain Class 10 and 12 mark sheets, the user IDs, passwords, and post-dated cheques of aspiring students in different parts of country as 'security', and once admission was done, a whooping amount ranging from Rs 12-15 lakh per candidate was being collected," the CBI said. Searches were earlier conducted in 2021 at 19 places including Delhi-NCR, Pune, Jamshedpur, Indore and Bengaluru which led to the recovery of 25 laptops, 7 PCs, around 30 post-dated cheques along with voluminous incriminating documents, devices including mark sheets of different students. Jammu, Oct 4 : Hemant Kumar Lohia, the Jammu and Kashmir Director General (Prisons), was killed on Tuesday in Jammu, Police said. Police sources said the throat-slit body of the senior IPS officer was allegedly found at his residence in Jammu city. "The servant of the top officer is absconding. The body has been sent for medico-legal formalities. It apparently looks like a murder. It is not a terror-related incident," sources added. Lohia was an IPS officer of 1992 batch and was a native of Assam. New Delhi, Oct 4 : Delhi Police have provided 'Z-plus' category security cover to the newly-appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, police said. According to a police official, the security was provided on the directions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The 'Z-Plus' category security cover is the second highest security provided to VVIPs after the Special Protection Group (SPG) that exclusively secures India's Prime Minister. 'Z+' category security cover comprise pilot/escort, close protection team of armed commandos, home guard, spotter, search-and-frisking staff, officials said. Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan assumed charge as the second CDS of the country on September 30. The post was lying vacant for more than nine months since the death of the first CDS General Bipin Rawat in December 2021. Lt. Gen Chauhan (retd) succeeds former Army chief, General Rawat, who had died in a helicopter crash on December 8, 2021. In a career spanning over nearly 40 years, Lt. Gen Chauhan has held several command, staff and instrumental appointments and had extensive experience in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast India. Commissioned into 11 Gorkha Rifles in 1981, he is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. As Major General, he had commanded an Infantry Division in the critical Baramulla sector in the Northern Command, and as Lt. General, commanded a Corps in the northeast and subsequently went on to become the Eastern Command chief from September 2019 and held the charge until his retirement from service in May 2021. In addition to these command appointments, he has also held important staff appointments, including the charge of Director General of Military Operations. He had also served on a United Nations mission to Angola. New York, Oct 4 : Former US President Donald Trump wants "revenge on President Biden, the media and on a whole range of people". That's the reason he wants to run for presidency in 2024 so that he can continue to raise money and get attention, both of which disappear if he does not. "I think Trump misses the pomp and legal protections that the presidency afforded him. I also think he wants revenge on Biden, and on the media, and on a whole range of people. And he wants to be able to continue to raise money and get attention, both of which disappear if he doesn't run," says Maggie Haberman of the New York Times (NYT), who has been covering Trump for a long time. "What I'm not clear on is that if he really wants to wage another campaign, in part because he's that much older and in part because he seems less engaged generally," says Haberman in her book "Confidence Man" being released on Tuesday. But that will reveal itself in the coming weeks or I think the criticism about too much coverage of Donald Trump felt very real to his primary opponents in 2016, and often to the Clinton campaign. But I would argue that he was leading the polls in the primaries, says The NYT in a newsletter mailed to the media and subscribers today quoting her where a NYT columnist David Leonhardt reviews her book. Donald Trump is the leading candidate to be the Republican nominee for President -- for the third straight election -- and he's also a subject of multiple criminal investigations. My colleague Maggie Haberman has been covering him the entire time and has written a book about him, "Confidence Man", being published on Tuesday. She often broke stories in 'The Times' that she uncovered while reporting for the book, says Leonhardt in the newsletter. Q: David asked the author that since she spent more time covering and interviewing Trump and when she was a New York Post reporter in the 1990s, she had claimed that Trump lies a lot. How is he in reality when he is actually not confined by reality? A: Trump is a former President and a potential future candidate, with huge influence over the party. Among other things, interviewing him helps illuminate how he keeps that influence: his obsession with us-versus-them politics, with salesmanship and with presenting a version of himself that is often very different from who he actually is. Additionally, there are moments of unintended candor by him, says Haberman. Q: Trump's comments about the letters from North Korean supremo Kim Jong-un that he apparently kept after leaving the White House gas gotten a lot of attention recently. Haberman says that it was a question I asked him on a lark, during our third interview for my book, held at his club at Bedminster, N.J., on September 16, 2021. A: I asked him if he had taken any "memento" documents from the White House, knowing how proud he had been of items like his letters from the authoritarian Kim Jong-un, she said. Trump's immediate response was to deny having taken anything significant, saying, "Nothing of great urgency, no," before -- unsolicited -- mentioning the Kim Jong-un letters, appearing to suggest he had them in his possession. A few months later, we learned he had a huge trove of White House material, including dozens of individual documents with classified markings. The newsletter said that it was a pattern with Trump that he was certainly not being straightforward. But he was also being just vague and confusing enough that it was hard to pin down exactly what he was saying. As the journalist Joe Klein has written, referring to this larger pattern, "He deployed words with a litigator's precision -- even if it sounded the opposite." That's exactly it, Haberman said adding that one of the difficulties of interviewing him, or tracking what he says, is he is often both all over the place and yet somewhat careful not to cross certain lines. "This was a hallmark of his business career, when he would tell employees not to take notes, although behind closed doors with employees he tended to be clearer in his directives." At his rally at the Ellipse on January 6, he told people to go "peacefully and patriotically" but also directed them to the Capitol with apocalyptic language about the election. Frequently, people around him understand the implications of words, even when he's not being direct, Haberman said. Q: Trump often said he was not watching TV on January 6, the day of the Capital Hills insurrection, so, isn't there widespread documentation to the contrary? A: Trump's aides told The Times that day and in the following days that he was watching television, and a public hearing held this year by the House committee investigating January 6 documented that he was watching television. "It represents two things, I think, Haberman said that its Trump's desire to construct an alternate reality, and his particular sensitivity to anyone suggesting he watches a lot of television, which he associates with people diminishing his intelligence (even though he watches a very large amount of television). How does one get to interview Trump? says Haberman. "I try to get specific pieces of information, answers that only he would have, even with all the caveats about what can be believed coming out of his mouth. One example was when I asked if he would be facing the same legal troubles if Robert Morgenthau, the former Manhattan District Attorney, still held the office. His answer was no, because Morgenthau was "a friend of mine". That was revealing about Trump's engagement with prosecutors, as he has escaped one investigation after another over years. Trump has a "relentless desire to hold the media's gaze". Do we cover him too much? Says Haberman that now, he's a former President with a huge following, as he undermines faith in elections and embraces conspiracy theories. I'm not sure there's a good argument for ignoring him, because he still gets heard through other means. There is a good argument for contextualising him. Working with world-class universities, we are dedicated to making a high-quality university education more accessible while keeping our students academic and professional success at the heart of everything we do. While thousands of students dream of attending college in an international destination, many never achieve that dream due to unclear admissions policies, exorbitant costs, and difficulties navigating the complexities of international education. But now, a new higher education institution is simplifying the world of international college admissions with its more inclusive, streamlined approach to global higher education. Artemis World Campus recently emerged on the scene with its mission of making an international college education more accessible through its partnerships with Ivy League equivalent universities across the globe, including the University of Birmingham, University of Sheffield, University of Manchester, University of Western Australia, and University of Auckland. Representatives from the institution had the chance to share this vision and its unique approach to higher education with families and college counselors attending the national NACAC Conference 2022 held in Houston from September 22-24. When students apply to Artemis, they also gain access to 50+ top universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand and over 9,000 majors, including business, engineering, pre-law, medicine, humanities, and more. Once accepted to Artemis, they also receive conditional admissions notices to three of their top-choice international institutions. After completing the first year of their bachelor's degree studies on the Artemis campus in Miami, students transfer to one of their choice institutions and spend another two years completing their bachelor's degrees, meaning Artemis students finish their degrees in three years versus four. "Working with world-class universities, we are dedicated to making a high-quality university education more accessible while keeping our students academic and professional success at the heart of everything we do," said Ben Taarit, director of Artemis Miami. The response Artemis representatives received during NACAC was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees applauding the institution for its innovation, affordability, and ability to make a cumbersome application process easier with one application to 50+ universities and 9,000 majors. To learn more about Artemis World Campus, visit https://artemiseducation.org/. Our Mission is to serve and support our MSP community of entrepreneurs with the innovation of technology in the sales process and to develop their sales practices further. Motiva, a leading IT solutions provider based in New York, announces today Binox MSP, the first of its kind sales enablement tool built for MSPs. The unified task-based sales enablement tool helps MSPs identify, engage, and convert leads into customers in their target market. Binox has everything that MSPs need to improve the sales process and increase revenue while empowering every user to stay focused on what matters the most. Coming from 17 years of experience running their own MSP, the organization understands the challenges MSPs face to generate more sales. Binox delivers highly qualified human-verified leads combined with the sales tools to convert them, such as a built-in dialer, SMS texting, Video Email, deep integration with the most popular PSAs, and quoting tools that MSPs use today. Empowering MSPs to maximize their time and increase revenue has always been core to Binoxs mission of contributing to the industry by utilizing data, insights, and AI to create a better experience during the sales process. Binox allows everyone, independent of skill level, to build and grow their MSP practice. Our Mission is to serve and support our MSP community of entrepreneurs with the innovation of technology in the sales process and to develop their sales practices further, says Walter Contreras, CEO of Motiva and Binox. As many CEOs and businesses are looking to increase their market share within their industries, they are looking for easy-to-use results-driven sales tools to help them improve their bottom line. "With advances in artificial intelligence, cloud, and web technology, the industry is entering an exciting new chapter for lead generation and sales management on the web. Binox provides priceless information about our sales target, says Mark Bauer, Director of Sales & Marketing, K-12 Technology Group. Binox has been a game changer for our business. We can find the "right fit" clients and targets in our area without heavy investment," says Raul Olave, IT Business Hero Corp. For MSPs looking for easy-to-use solutions to increase revenue daily, request a no-obligation demo http://www.binoxmsp.com. Get a 14-day free trial and start growing your MSP today. No need to leave the tools you already love; Binox brings it all together. Media/Press Inquiries: AOPR | pr@aoprllc.com or 9292295512 About Motiva Motiva is a leading Managed IT Services firm based in New York, delivering a profit-centric approach to IT for CEOs and entrepreneurs in technology. Their deliverable is MONEY, EFFICIENCY, and peace of mind (SECURITY). About Binox MSP Binox is a SaaS solution built by MSPs of data, insights, and integrations to help you identify, engage and convert customers in your target market. Four Kitchens acquires Costa Rica-based Manati "A lot of organizations expand outside of the U.S., Canada, and Europe, but this isnt just a move to boost stability and profitability. This is hiring; this is retention. This is building a stronger team." Todd Ross Nienkerk, CEO and Co-Founder, Four Kitchens Four Kitchens, a distributed web design agency with roots in Austin, TX, is extending its global reach by acquiring Manati. Based in Costa Rica, Manati is a fully remote, 21-person digital agency with deep ties to the Drupal community. Four Kitchens will incorporate the firms co-founders along with its team of web developers, UX designers, and project managers, growing to 65 Web Chefs. With the addition of Manati, Four Kitchens expands their ability to create more inclusive experiences through multilingual projects as well as increased flexibility for short-notice and urgent requests from clients. The acquisition takes effect October 1, 2022. The Mana-team is at the heart of this business venture, said Todd Ross Nienkerk, CEO and Co-Founder of Four Kitchens. A lot of organizations expand outside of the U.S., Canada, and Europe, but this isnt just a move to boost stability and profitability. This is hiring; this is retention. This is building a stronger team. The acquisition of Manati is the culmination of an eight-year collaboration and friendship between the firms. With similar client rosters that specialize in education and social impact, Four Kitchens and Manati also share a connection through their values, vision, and mission. Even though we are in different parts of the world, there are so many things that unite us, said Manatis Director of Design and Co-Founder A. Lucia Sanchez. Four Kitchens: Impactful work and steady growth for more than 16 years Founded in 2006, Four Kitchens provides services in digital strategy, user experience, visual design, content strategy, and frontend and backend development. Four Kitchens also created the Emulsify Design System, an open-source style guide and component library tool. Emulsify facilitates faster, more accessible content creation and website development. In 2021, Four Kitchens merged with Advomatic, expanding its presence among organizations specializing in nonprofit advocacy and education. In addition, the agency has also incorporated Advomatics program for providing long-term, strategic website support and improvements, which is called Continuous Care. Securing a brighter, more inclusive future ahead As the teams combine, Manatis projects in Central and South America will be phased out to focus on the organizations clients in the U.S. and Canada. Among the additions Nienkerk is most excited to incorporate is Manatis approach to recruitment, training, and mentorship, which is more advanced than Four Kitchens existing processes. We have progressive practices in the way that we do the work and in the way we invest in peopleor should I say, help them invest in themselves, said Alberto Rojas, CEO and Co-Founder of Manati. This changes industries. If we can improve that with this acquisition, that is one of the most exciting things for me. Teaching and nurturing talent is powerful from a give back, do good perspective, and its just a really good business strategy, adds Nienkerk. That way were not relying on a hiring pool thats relatively small. We can open it up to a lot of people who are willing to learn. Pietro Bortoletto, MD, MSc I am elated to join a fertility network as respected and experienced as Boston IVF where we have the resources, experience, and innovative spirit to make a positive impact in the lives of all patients. Pietro Bortoletto, MD, MSc Boston IVF, one of the worlds most experienced fertility treatment providers, who has assisted in over 125,000 babies born since 1986, is pleased to announce that reproductive endocrinologist Pietro Bortoletto, MD, MSc has joined its practice and physician team. Dr. Bortoletto is now accepting new patients at Boston IVFs fertility centers in Stoneham, Massachusetts and Waltham, Massachusetts. Dr. Bortoletto specializes in all aspects of infertility treatment and family building care, including intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), LGBTQIA+ fertility, egg freezing, single-parenting, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and more. He holds a special interest in the treatment of diminished ovarian reserve, recurrent pregnancy loss & implantation failure, Mullerian anomalies, fibroids, endometriosis, and Ashermans syndrome. Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil and raised in Miami, Florida - he is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Boston IVF is not just a coveted destination for individuals and couples who seek fertility care but also for fertility doctors and researchers like me, said Pietro Bortoletto, MD, MSc. I am elated to join a fertility network as respected and experienced as Boston IVF where we have the resources, experience, and innovative spirit to make a positive impact in the lives of all patients. In addition to Dr. Bortolettos role as a reproductive endocrinologist at Boston IVF, he also serves as the fertility networks Director of Reproductive Surgery. At Boston IVFs Surgery Center of Waltham located inside its Waltham fertility clinic Dr. Bortoletto performs complex hysteroscopy for the treatment of fibroids, Mullerian anomalies, retained products of conception and Ashermans syndrome with the goal of improving reproductive outcomes. He also performs minimally invasive gynecologic surgery for endometriosis, fibroids, Mullerian anomalies, and tubal disease at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Boston IVFs Surgery Center of Waltham, the only freestanding reproductive surgical center in New England, performs over 300 reproductive surgery procedures each year. As a licensed and accredited ambulatory surgical center, it offers patients a reputable, safe, and convenient environment that is less stressful than a traditional, larger hospital. Alongside his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Bortoletto is a distinguished researcher, having published more than 60 peer-reviewed papers that focus on reproductive surgery, maternal & neonatal outcomes of IVF conceived pregnancies, and IVF outcomes. He currently serves as the Interactive Associate in Chief for Fertility & Sterility, the worlds most distinguished scientific research journal for obstetricians, gynecologists, reproductive endocrinologists, urologists, scientists and others who treat and investigate problems of infertility and human reproductive disorders. Additionally, he is the Media Editor at F&S Reports, a part of the Fertility and Sterility family of journals that publishes peer-reviewed original scientific articles relevant to reproductive medicine. He is the cohost of the both the 'Fertility & Sterility On Air' and 'F&S Unplugged' podcasts. Boston IVFs renowned research program has published hundreds of scientific papers and clinical studies many of which have led to industry firsts in reproductive care. This includes the first IVF/ICSI pregnancy in New England and the first live birth from a frozen egg in Massachusetts, amongst others. Anytime an organization like Boston IVF can successfully recruit a multi-dimensional reproductive endocrinologist, reproductive surgeon, and researcher as talented as Dr. Bortoletto its an important addition worth recognizing, said David Stern, CEO of the Boston IVF fertility network. What is truly unique about Boston IVF is the continuity of care that we offer. The addition of Dr. Bortoletto ensures that individuals and couples will continue to receive streamlined, superior fertility treatments, surgical procedures, wellness care, and more all under one roof. Dr. Bortoletto received his medical degree at Northwestern Universitys Feinberg School of Medicine, completed his OB/GYN residency at the Brigham & Womens Hospital/Massachusetts General Hospital Integrated Residency Program, and his fellowship at Weill Cornell Medicine where he also earned a masters degree in Clinical & Translational Investigation. He is currently on staff at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and is as clinical instructor at Harvard Medical School. Boston IVFs Waltham Fertility Center offers a full array of reproductive treatment and care, including on-site andrology and embryology (IVF) laboratories, blood and ultrasound cycle monitoring, male infertility testing, IUI, IVF, egg freezing, and more. Boston IVFs Stoneham Fertility Center offers a variety of services including consultations, IUI, blood/ultrasound monitoring, Saline Infusion Sonohysterogram (SIS), office hysteroscopy, semen analysis, and more. To learn more about Dr. Bortoletto, to receive fertility treatment advice, or to schedule a consultation, please visit http://www.bostonivf.com. ABOUT BOSTON IVF Boston IVF is one of the largest and most experienced fertility networks in the United States, with more than 125,000 babies born since 1986. Founded as one of the nation's first private practice IVF centers, the Boston IVF network has grown to include over 30 reproductive endocrinologists across 30 centers throughout Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New York, Delaware, Idaho, Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio, and Utah. A renowned innovator of reproductive technologies, advanced protocols, and cutting-edge research, Boston IVF has achieved numerous "firsts" in reproductive care. Its scientific and research arm continues to pave the way for breakthroughs in fertility care and its accredited REI Fellowship Program has graduated numerous reproductive endocrinologists as part of its mission to train the next generation of fertility experts. "As caregivers turn the focus of their lives to tending to their loved ones, they become frustrated as they often are met with resistance," said Macie P. Smith, Ed.D Duet is hosting a Fall Family Caregiver Virtual Symposium on October 13, 2022 from 9-11:30 MST. Dr. Aaron Blight, an international speaker and consultant on caregiving, aging, and healthcare and Dr. Macie P. Smith, an award-winning educator, author, writer and television personality will be presenting. This virtual event is open to anyone and free to register for family caregivers, $15 for professionals. Acadia is the event Silver Sponsor, along with AARP Arizona and CopperPoint Insurance Companies as Copper Sponsors. Jayme West, KTAR will moderate the event. Aaron Blight, Ed.D will be presenting on When Caregiving Calls Caregivers are usually so busy with the tasks of caregiving that they rarely reflect upon the significance of their activities, including how caring changes their identity: their view of self, their relationships with others, and their place in society. This thoughtful and inspiring presentation draws upon research to explain caregiving as a phenomenon of social science. Knowledge gained from the discussion will offer caregivers a framework for: 1. Processing their experiences 2. Developing the resilience needed to continue supporting their loved ones. Macie P. Smith, Ed.D will discuss When Your Loved One Resists: Dealing with Difficult People As caregivers turn the focus of their lives to tending to their loved ones, they become frustrated as they often are met with resistance. The goal of this presentation is for participants to be afforded the following benefits: Participants will better understand the meaning of resistance. Participants will understand the reasons behind resistance. Participants will identify strategies to address resistance. To register, visit: https://duetaz.org/symposium/. About Duet: Partners In Health & Aging: Duet is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote health and well-being through vitally needed services to homebound adults, family caregivers, faith communities, and grandfamilies. Duets free-of-charge services are available in the greater Phoenix area. To volunteer, donate or ask for help, go to http://www.duetaz.org or call (602) 274-5022. # # # Clearsulting creates positive change for organizations through digital finance. Its been exciting to watch Clearsulting grow right before my eyes. Going from a one-person operation to more than 200 team members and seeing our name included on these prestigious rankings is a dream come true. And theres more to come. Clearsulting had a notable third quarter, landing on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list, qualifying for Consulting Magazines Fastest Growing Firms ranking, and acquiring a second professional services firmPBC Global. The Inc. 5000 is the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in Americait represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies in the dynamic segment of independent businesses. Clearsulting made the list in 2022 for the third year in a row, coming in at number 1898 with an impressive three-year growth rate of 319 percent. Complete results can be found here. In a similar vein, Consulting's Fastest Growing Firms recognizes the fastest-growing consulting firms in the world, of any size, and from any sector, based on the rate of revenue growth between 2019 and 2021. Clearsulting was one of 26 firms to qualify for the 2022 ranking. The official rank order list will be revealed in October. Learn more here. Its been exciting to watch Clearsulting grow right before my eyes, said Marc Ursick, Clearsultings CEO. Going from a one-person operation to more than 200 team members and seeing our name included on these prestigious rankings is a dream come true. And theres more to come. Clearsultings acquisition of PBC Global solidifies its high-growth agenda. The two organizations integrated operations effective October 1, 2022, and are stronger together for the organizations they serve. PBC Globals portfolio of services align directly with our Risk Advisory services, and we have several joint clients already, said Adam Hohla, Clearsultings Risk Advisory lead. Were also excited to have PBCs CEO, Patrick Brogan, join us as a director in Risk Advisory. He and his team will bolster our internal audit capabilities. Explore Clearsulting's services and technology alliances at https://www.clearsulting.com/. About Clearsulting Clearsulting is a consultancy whose mission is to help finance become a better partner to the business. With our innovative thinking, were able to develop sustainable solutions that allow teams to drive results and work better, together. We operate across North America and Europe, and we specialize in enterprise performance management, finance effectiveness, record-to-report, risk advisory, and treasury services that take a digital-minded approach to push your business further. More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000 Methodology Companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2018 to 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generated revenue by March 31, 2018. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independentnot subsidiaries or divisions of other companiesas of December 31, 2021. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2018 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places. The top 500 companies on the Inc. 5000 are featured in Inc. magazines September issue. The entire Inc. 5000 can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000. About Inc. The worlds most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit http://www.inc.com. Tom Sulewski, CEO of Clark Nuber PS We have a world-class group of professionals at this firm. I look forward to working with them and the leadership team to leverage the success Rob established during his tenure." Tom Sulewksi Clark Nuber PS, a Top 100 accounting and consulting firm, announced Tom Sulewski as its new chief executive officer, effective October 1, 2022. He succeeds Rob Wheeler, who served as the firms CEO since 2014. The two worked closely together in the preceding months to transition the role. Wheeler, who is transitioning out of the role due to shareholder term limits, remains with the firm in an advisory role and as a resource to the new CEO. Sulewski joined Clark Nuber in 1991 upon graduation from the University of Washington. By 2001, he was admitted as a shareholder. During that time, Sulewski oversaw the firms Audit & Assurance Services Group, which more than tripled in size to 100+ personnel under his 20-year guidance. Outside of Clark Nuber, he is the immediate past chair of the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants and has served on a variety of community and university boards in leadership positions throughout his career. Accounting students may also recognize him as an adjunct professor at the University of Washington Bothell. This is a tremendous privilege and opportunity, Sulewski said. We have a world-class group of professionals at this firm. I look forward to working with them and the leadership team to leverage the success Rob established during his tenure. Wheeler's time as CEO was marked by national recognition for Clark Nubers culture and its award-winning client service. Under his leadership, the firm grew to employ more than 250 people in 19 states, with most serving in the Seattle metro area. Clark Nuber was consistently ranked among the Top 100 Firms in the U.S., spotlighted as a Best Place to Work, and earned accolades as a Best CPA Firm for Women and for Leadership Equity. Serving as the CEO of Clark Nuber was an honor, Wheeler said. I truly cherished the opportunity to work with some of the best professionals and nicest people I know for the past 30 years. I was very fortunate to have the support of the other shareholders of the firm as we developed new capabilities and resources to provide the highest level of service to our clients. Our culture is primarily focused on contributing to the success of our people and, in that regard, Tom is uniquely qualified to lead us into the future. Shareholder Julie Eisenhauer succeeds Sulewski as head of the firms Audit & Assurance Services Group. Eisenhauer has been with Clark Nuber for 19 years and specializes in providing services to hospitality, real estate, and family-owned businesses. She also serves on several industry and civic boards. About Clark Nuber PS Now in its 70th year, Clark Nuber PS is an award-winning CPA firm located in the Seattle area. Recognized as a Top 100 Firm by both Inside Public Accounting and Accounting Today, our 250+ professionals provide audit, accounting, tax, and consulting services to private companies, family businesses, not-for-profit organizations and the public sector, foundations, and high net worth individuals. In addition to the Pacific Northwest, we serve clients throughout the United States and around the world. FedRAMP authorization is a reflection of our commitment to providing the highest standards of security and compliance to our customers. Laser AI can now be integrated securely and efficiently into federal customers workflows to accelerate their research. Evidence Primes initial partnering agency was the National Institutes of Health. "Evidence Prime is delighted to announce that our Laser AI software platform has achieved this important milestone," said Artur Nowak, Evidence Prime's CTO. "FedRAMP authorization is a reflection of our commitment to providing the highest standards of security and compliance to our customers." Laser AI is a cloud-based software platform that uses advanced machine learning techniques to automate and streamline the management of large volumes of scientific data. It speeds up the process of literature reviews, decreases its costs, and improves the quality by allowing overworked human specialists to focus on the essential elements and offload many of the repetitive tasks to the AI-enabled system. Laser AIs security-by-design approach includes a secure cloud-native platform built using modern DevSecOps technologies, such as Kubernetes. FedRAMP is a government-wide program that provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services. It helps the government rapidly adapt from old, insecure legacy IT to mission-enabling, secure, and easily deployed cost-effective cloud-based solutions. "FedRAMP is an important milestone for us," said Pawel Kunstman, Evidence Primes President. "It signifies that we can meet the high standards for security and compliance that agencies require for the software they use. It also signals that we are ready to work with agencies to deliver the capabilities they need to meet their missions." About Evidence Prime: Evidence Prime began operations in 2014 and is a collaboration between McMaster University a leading Canadian academic institution and a group of committed, experienced Polish IT professionals and researchers. Evidence Prime creates innovative tools for EBHC. GRADEpro (with over 100k users) is the worlds most popular healthcare guideline development tool. Laser AI is a groundbreaking tool for literature reviews based on a state-of-the-art AI model and reinvented user experience. Today, the Melanoma Research Foundations (MRF) CURE OM initiative, dedicated to increasing awareness, education, support and research funding for ocular melanoma (OM) released its first-ever data report highlighting its Virtual Information System to Improve Outcomes and Networks (VISION) Registrys inaugural year. Launched in May 2021, VISION tracks patients from the time of diagnosis through their full experience with ocular melanoma. Patients from around the world can share their experiences with this rare disease to help advance patient care, quality of life and ultimately find a cure for OM. VISION collects patient-reported outcomes such as symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), perceived health status, experience with the health system and preferences to inform stakeholders on the patient experience. Understanding this holistic experience is pivotal to identify potential causes, improve quality of patient care and enhance clinical research resulting in better therapeutic interventions. The VISION Registry Data Report provides key takeaways and accomplishments from the registrys first year and establishes a strong and impressive framework for future patient-centered resources, collaboration and research. Having worked for years with dedicated patients, caregivers, physicians and researchers to develop the VISION Registry, the first year of data is now available and we will begin to see transformational change in how we study, treat, and ultimately cure ocular melanoma, said Dan S. Gombos, MD, FACS, professor and chief, Section of Ophthalmology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, president and board member, ISOO, immediate past president and board member, AAOOP and member of the VISION Registry Steering Committee. The report offers insight into areas such as socio-demographics, clinical care, patient experience, patient preferences and quality of life. To date, more than 325 OM patients representing 7 countries and 37 states have enrolled in VISION. Of special interest to patients and experts have been the outcomes revealing the patients diagnostic journey, biopsy decisions, care priorities and experiences with clinical teams and support services. Particularly illuminating, a clear benefit of VISION is the ability to connect the over 90% of patients whove reported interest in participating in eligible studies, with researchers. I am incredibly proud to see the leadership and dedication of the ocular melanoma community that brought us to where we are today. As a fifteen-year ocular melanoma survivor, Im honored that my own OM experience will help to shape the progress of tomorrow and provide hope to patients and their families, said MRF Board member and OM thriver Mark Weinzierl. Co-developed by OM patients, caregivers, researchers and clinicians, the VISION Registry advances patient-centered research collaboration across multiple global clinical and academic centers, patient advocacy organizations and governmental as well as non-governmental and industry partners. Future goals include developing a holistic VISION Platform that will enhance intra-community communication and strengthen connections between patients and ongoing research efforts. The VISION Registry is sponsored by the MRF and receives financial support from Massachusetts General Hospital, Castle Biosciences and TriSalus Life Sciences. To view additional patient reported data and read OM community testimonials, you can access the 2022 VISION Registry Data Report here: melanoma.org/VisionDataReport. To engage with or learn more about ocular melanoma, please contact CUREOM@melanoma.org. ### About the MRFs CURE OM Initiative Ocular melanoma (OM) develops in the eye and is the most common form of eye cancer in adults and the second most common type of melanoma. Approximately 2,000 Americans are diagnosed with the disease each year. In about half of all OM cases, the disease will spread to other parts of the body. When this occurs, it is almost always fatal. Visit http://www.cureom.org to learn more about the Melanoma Research Foundations OM initiative, CURE OM (Community United for Research and Education of Ocular Melanoma), which was established by an OM patient and caregiver in 2011 to increase awareness, education, support, treatment options and research funding for OM. Find CURE OM on Facebook and Twitter. Media Contact: James Merrick Chief Communications and Marketing Officer jmerrick@melanoma.org Business and Restaurant Branding This new brand strategy is key for us, and we made sure to demonstrate on our website the kind rich and bold branding we will deliver to clients. Nashville's Nice Branding Agency (HQ in Franklin, TN) has launched its new brand colors and website (http://www.nice-branding.com) with an impressive bold look that embraces the latest technologies and brand marketing trends. Nice Branding Agency is a multi-disciplinary creative firm specializing in business and restaurant branding that has been in operation since 2007 with over 290+ clients across the country. With primary services consisting of foundational brand development, brand support, and graphic design services. Nice Branding Agency is a great strategic extension of JLB. Our brand was dated, and we needed to demonstrate the same kind of quality and value that we deliver for our clients said, Ken Royer CEO of Nice Branding. This new brand strategy is key for us, and we made sure to demonstrate on our website the kind rich and bold branding we will deliver to clients. We took the time to detail many brand case studies, examples of the branding process, display some award-winning brands and allow website visitors to explore functionalities like load animations and interactive user experiences. Since the beginning of the year, Nice Branding has integrated a seamless experience for brand identity and digital services. From concept to ongoing marketing, Nice is accountable to make sure your brand & website are impressive, everything is working, you are getting results, and it is ALL well supported in one place. Nice Branding is part of Web Services Team Corporation (WST). WST is as an investment and operations company that brings Business-Class custom branding, website, marketing and online solutions to businesses. WST was founded on the fundamental reality that online marketing solutions and services are terribly segmented and misleading. This leaves businesses vulnerable to unnecessary costs, little to no support, and ultimately lost opportunities. WST solves this problem. For more information, please contact Nice Branding at (615) 794-2123, http://www.nice-branding.com or mailto:info@nice-branding.com [info@nice-branding.com]. Gallaudet University Gallaudet University is pleased to announce that it has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for 20222025 for its use of Apple products in learning, teaching, and working, and in support of the universitys commitment to American Sign Language and English bilingualism, belonging and equity, and innovation. Apple Distinguished Schools are centers of innovation, leadership, and educational excellence. They use Apple technology to inspire creativity, collaboration and critical thinking in learning, teaching, and the school environment, and have documented results of academic accomplishment. Khadijat K. Rashid, Dean of the Faculty, said, Gallaudet University is honored to be recognized as an Apple Distinguished School. We share with Apple the goal of inclusive excellence. We also know that technological solutions work best when the people who stand to benefit from these solutions are involved. Our work together past, present, and future shows our shared commitment to foster innovation and inclusion in education. It supports Gallaudet in advancing the three priorities of The Gallaudet Promise: extraordinary learning and academic excellence across the lifespan, knowledge creation and discovery, and signing ecosystems and career success. It upholds Apples commitment to education and to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind. Together, we will make the world a better place for all. The selection of Gallaudet University as an Apple Distinguished School highlights the universitys success as an innovator and a compelling learning environment that engages students, and provides tangible evidence of academic achievement. For instance: Apple products and applications drive the work of the universitys Motion Light Lab (ML2), which uses immersive, research-informed learning experiences from a signing/Deaf perspective to produce sign language storybook apps for deaf children to transform their reading experience in multiple signed languages. ML2 also produced Here Comes Mavo, an award-winning 3D childrens film with animated Deaf characters. Their work with signing avatars has advanced the use of motion capture technology. Deaf Studies students created bilingual, bimodal childrens ebooks with Apple proprietary software and Mac computers in collaboration with their counterparts at Swarthmore College. Information Technology capstone students learned iOS app development and developed a COVID-19 tracking and resource app. Linguistics graduate students are creating apps for an ASL corpus. The Office of University Communications created several Apple Maps Guides highlighting the signing ecosystem in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and beyond. Students are entering pitch competitions with creative Apple hardware and software solutions. Finally, Gallaudet is using Apple products as it submits its reaccreditation application bilingually, in ASL and English, to its accrediting body. Gallaudets federally-chartered K-12 program, the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center (Clerc Center), was also recognized as an Apple Distinguished School. Together, Clerc Center and Gallaudet serve deaf and hard of hearing students across the lifespan. Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind individuals through American Sign Language and English. The university enrolls nearly 1,600 students in more than 40 undergraduate programs and more than 25 graduate degree programs. Its 18-plus research centers and faculty-led laboratories focus on accessible technology, American Sign Language and English bilingualism, Black Deaf history and culture, healthcare, deaf education, and educational neuroscience. Media Contacts: Robert B. Weinstock Senior Public Relations Manager Gallaudet University Telephone: 202-250-2411; 301-642-0338 text/FaceTime Email: robert.weinstock@gallaudet.edu Alana Cowan The Durkin Agency alanacowan5@gmail.com As pandemic restrictions ease, Canada's B2B tech community is ready to come together at the Big Data and AI Show at the Metro Toronto Convention Center on October 6th and 7th. Working from home has meant that individual productivity skyrocketed, but team productivity plummeted. But that is about to change, with this technical playground bringing together the best and brightest of Canada's tech scene. The Big Data and AI Show connect colleagues from several sectors of Canada's B2B community, including Banking, Retail, Insurance, Consulting, Healthcare, and the Government Agencies and Educational Institutions that support it. In addition, the show includes Thought Leaders and Up-and-Comers alike to spur innovation and help you plan for the future. This unique four-in-one show consists of the main stage, demo sessions, start-up sessions, and an exhibition floor. Free expo passes are still available here. Main Stage You'll never run out of inspiration with our diverse and engaging panel discussions, educational keynotes, and use case practical case studies. Join us for a day filled with great takeaways. The show features over 150 speakers, including: Shopify's Director of Engineering and Data, Wendy Foster Airmiles' CTO, Rick Neuman Walmart's SVP and CTO, Sravana Kumar Karnati These speakers will talk about how to tackle real-world challenges facing Canadian organizations. Teams best attend these sessions so bring your colleagues. Demo Sessions Take a deep dive into the future of data with these short, thirty-minute presentations. Learn about what Big Data and Artificial Intelligence have in store for your organization. Learn about the future of Customer Experience with Conversational AI from NewComp Explore using Dataiku's AI tools to redesign models and improve insurance risk analysis, helping you make better decisions. Discover how DataRobot's technology helps accelerate your feature engineering workflow with a simple and intuitive interface. Start-Up Pitches The next big idea in Canada might be a start-up pitch featured at the show. Several exciting new businesses are being put on center stage at the front, including Nuvoola.ai. Their AI-powered solutions help unlock the potential in video, voice, or data by providing actionable intelligence that drives operational performance. They have offices across the Maritimes, Quebec, and Ontario. Exhibition Floor Explore over 100 exhibitors at the show, including sponsors, Microsoft, IBM, and Data Robot. Don't miss booths from Bell, Airmiles, Queen's University, PWC, and the University of Waterloo, among many others. Press Passes Please visit our Press and Influencer page here to get a press pass for the Big Data and AI show. Press passes include full access to all conference sessions and meals. This is our moon shot but instead of launching up, we're launching down. With OceanShot, we are restoring the place that is critical to human survival today as well as for our future. Without healthy oceans, there is no us, says Dr. Brosnan. Today, the world-class, pioneering coral reef restoration project OceanShot created by climate scientist & marine biologist Dr. Deborah Brosnan and philanthropist entrepreneur John Paul DeJoria in collaboration with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda deployed the first of its tailor-made coral modules off the island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. Unveiled last year, OceanShot is a featured project of the Global Citizen Forum and the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). OceanShots deployment symbolizes an acceleration of ocean conservation and efforts to safeguard against the impacts of climate change. This monumental project will drive massive, unprecedented solutions at scale, uniting climate science, governmental action, and technological innovation. The coral modules combine both built structure and living coral. They are architecturally designed to restore a once-thriving ocean ecosystem, and to protect shoreline and ocean communities from the ravaging impact of storms and sea level rise, as well as to revive ocean-dependent local economies. This project is scalable for global implementation. AI cameras, which will be critical for monitoring and devising solutions have been deployed on the ocean bed to monitor the reef 24/7 to analyze the natural ecosystem, including fish diversity, coral growth, and wave patterns. One of the most critical ecosystems on the planet, coral reefs cover less than 0.1% of the worlds oceans, but are home to over 25% of marine biodiversity, and support over 1 billion people with a wide range of ecosystem services. Already, half of the worlds reefs have been destroyed: We lose more coral in a day than we can currently restore in a decade. OceanShot will change that. The island nation of Antigua and Barbuda was chosen for the initial coral module deployment because it is emblematic of the problem facing millions around the world. With the majority of its corals dead, the coastline is vulnerable to storm surge, erosion, and sea level rise. A living coral reef breaks over 90% of a waves energy, helping to keep sand on the beach and reduce run-up. But without its coral reefs and with sea level rise accelerating, Antigua and Barbuda is losing beaches some facing erosion of up to 10 feet a year. For OceanShot, Dr. Brosnan assembled a team of coral reef biologists, sea level rise experts, coastal engineers, and the local community on the island nation for an intensive, year-long ecosystem study. Together, they designed reefs to safeguard the nations future. Mathematical modelers helped to design reef modules that optimally function as a natural reef to combat increased storm surge, erosion, and keep sand on the beaches, as well as provide habitat for hundreds of species. Working with the local community, the team has grown 2,000 corals ready to outplant onto the modules, kick-starting the living restoration. Reef Cells manufactured the first set of modules, and plans are underway to design and build the next generation of reefs. A living lab has been developed on Barbuda to further advance reef solutions and development. This is our moon shot but instead of launching up, we're launching down. With OceanShot, we are restoring the place that is critical to human survival today as well as for our future. Without healthy oceans, there is no us, says Dr. Brosnan. This isn't just a science project, this is a full-scale solution that might be the answer to saving small island nations. We now know how to design and build reefs, and locate them so we get maximum benefits for the coast, as well as reviving fisheries and local communities blue economies. We all rent space on this planet. We are responsible for taking care of it and for how we leave it for the next generation, says John Paul DeJoria. Coral reefs are the lifeblood of the planet. I am committed to furthering new and advanced environmental conservation efforts, and am delighted to partner with Dr. Brosnan on this innovative and impactful initiative. The island nation of Antigua and Barbuda proudly pledged its full support to OceanShot from the outset, says Prime Minister Gaston Browne, one of the leading figures tackling climate-change for Caribbean Island Nations. We are the first country on which the projects scalable solutions have been deployed. Prioritizing ocean resilience and blue economy for our citizens are among the most important initiatives being developed on the islands of Antigua and Barbuda. This engagement and partnership with the OceanShot project is helping PADI to mobilize more ocean torchbearers who care about coral reefs and want to support creating positive ocean change, said Dr. Drew Richardson, President and CEO of PADI. We are working with Dr. Brosnan and her team to help form the basis of best practices guidelines for scalable coral reef restoration and monitoringwhich ties in directly to PADIs Blueprint for Ocean Action. The solutions provided by OceanShot are transferable, scalable, and can be deployed to other nations especially the most at-risk nations, Small Island Development Nations in urgent need. One year in, this is a recap clip on the projects successes thus far. "This unique combination of expert care and support stands to dramatically enhance dementia-related care in southwestern Pennsylvania," said Dr. Weinberg. Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has been named one of four recipients of the Henry L. Hillman Foundation Healthy Aging Challenge grant. This $500,000 award will support the establishment of a comprehensive program for persons living with dementia and their caregivers, known as the AHN Aging Brain Care Program and Dementia Super Network. The program will leverage an evidence-based model which integrates specialized staff into primary care teams and addresses the stresses and hardships commonly held among family caregivers. According to the CDC, approximately 5.8 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimers disease and related dementias. By 2060, the number of Alzheimers disease cases is predicted to rise to an estimated 14 million people, with minority populations being affected the most. Both persons living with dementia and their caregivers are significantly impacted by the disease as individuals become unable to care for and make decisions for themselves. Often unaware of available support services, caregivers tend to feel overwhelmed in their caretaking responsibilities all while grieving the loss of the person they once knew. Compared with caregivers of people without dementia, twice as many caregivers of those with dementia indicate substantial emotional, financial and physical difficulties, according to the Alzheimers Association. The AHN Aging Brain Care Program and Dementia Super Network aims to deliver whole-person care to AHN patients who are in early stages of the disease, as well connect them and their caregivers with wraparound support services by closing the gap between medical providers and local resources. In addition to providing enhanced care levels and easier access to support, the program intends to reduce unnecessary utilization of high-cost health care services among this rapidly growing patient population including avoidable visits to emergency departments. Within the first year, AHN will commission a multi-disciplinary team led by Lyn Weinberg, MD, geriatrician and director of the AHN division of geriatrics within the AHN Primary Care Institute, and Angela Kypriotis, MSW, LCSW, manager of behavioral health and social services. The team will be comprised of geriatricians, neurologists, community health workers, a behavioral health consultant and a social worker; all of whom are well-versed in caring for individuals with dementia. Initially, the team will be based at two AHN primary care offices including AHN West Penn Medical Associates in Pittsburghs Bloomfield neighborhood and AHN Wexford Medical Practice in Cranberry Township. For caregivers, the team will assemble a Dementia Super Network of skilled professionals across the greater Pittsburgh region who can provide counseling, education, individualized care planning and assistance in navigating community services that best fit their needs. To help supply these services, the AHN team will work in partnership with Indiana University where this evidence-based care model was developed, as well as Doreen C. Putnam of DCPutnam Consulting, ElderCare Transitions, LLC and Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. The rapidly increasing number of individuals with new diagnoses of Alzheimers disease and other related dementias poses significant challenges to patients, their families and the health care system at large, said Dr. Weinberg. This unique combination of expert care and support stands to dramatically enhance dementia-related care in southwestern Pennsylvania, providing patients with high-quality care while arming caregivers with the education, resources and support they need to manage the many complexities of this devastating disease. This funding from Henry L. Hillman Foundation will help make a meaningful difference for families in our region by aiding them in complex decision-making, grief and loss, planning for the future, care coordination, skill-building and more, said Allie Quick, chief philanthropy officer at AHN. We thank them for their generous support of this critically important program. The rise in the number of people living with dementia means that caregivers need specialized training and support more than ever, said Lauri Fink, senior program officer of Henry L. Hillman Foundation. The Healthy Aging Challenge was intended to inspire new models and ideas to improve the lives of older adults in our region. Were heartened to see innovative projects emerge from the challenge that provide emotional support and tools for caregivers faced with the substantial challenges that accompany taking care of those living with this disease. The Healthy Aging Challenge was designed to improve the lives of older adults in southwestern Pennsylvania. For more information, visit https://www.healthyagingchallenge.org/. To learn more about geriatric primary care at AHN, visit https://www.ahn.org/services/primary-care/specialties/geriatrics. ### About Allegheny Health Network Allegheny Health Network (AHN.org) is an integrated healthcare delivery system serving the greater Western Pennsylvania region. The Network is composed of 14 hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, Health + Wellness Pavilions, an employed physician organization, home and community-based health services, a research institute and a group purchasing organization. The Network provides patients with access to a complete spectrum of advanced medical services, including nationally recognized programs for primary and emergency care, cardiovascular disease, cancer care, orthopedic surgery, neurology and neurosurgery, womens health, diabetes and more. AHN employs approximately 21,000 people, has more than 2,600 physicians on its medical staff and serves as a clinical campus for Drexel University College of Medicine and the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Taveuan Williams, a Denver, Colorado native, devoted father, a loving son, a dependable sibling, and a reliable friend to anyone who needs his hand who succumbed to the lures of gang culture before becoming a poet, motivational speaker, and mentor within the Department of Corrections., has completed his new book Ways a Relationship Rises: a thoughtful self-help guide to successfully navigating the highs and lows of romantic relationships. We all want to experience a love beyond our wildest dreams, but what happens when your partner fails to meet your expectations? How can you finally receive the love your heart longs for? In Ways a Relationship Rises (WARR): a Fresh Perspective on Life, Love, and Relationships!, Taveuan Williams tackles the primary battlegrounds where couples war and fight, offering breakthrough solutions that will revolutionize the way we relate, connect, and solve problems by challenging egocentric thoughts, coupled with exploring insight and perspective which most people fail to acknowledge. You dont have to settle or be alone. Instead, you can get the love you want. This book will do a world of good for couples experiencing the following: Loss of sense of self Poor communication Loss of trust No emotional connection Lack of physical intimacy Published by Page Publishing, Taveuan Williamss engrossing book is a thought-provoking work for readers seeking actionable advice for healthy relationships. Readers who wish to experience this engaging work can purchase Ways a Relationship Rises at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing understands that authors should be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Pages accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. Mental Health and the Church: A Book for Pastors and Other Church Leaders: a potent reminder of the need to care for oneself as well as those in ones charge. Mental Health and the Church: A Book for Pastors and Other Church Leaders is the creation of published author Bishop Terry Haynes. Bishop Haynes shares, The mental health of individuals regardless of denominational association or spiritual belief is essential to overall spiritual, physical, and mental wellness. Pastors are challenged to provide answers to difficult questions, offer guidance to manage life challenges, and the various concerns of their congregants. Although pastors give themselves to others to improve their wellness, attention to personal needs is often neglected. Compassion fatigue, depression, anxiety, and burnout are factors decreasing the mental wellness of pastors. Self-awareness, self-care, self-disclosure, and help-seeking behavior of pastors and church leaders are essential to decrease the severity and frequency of mental health episodes. Mental health and the church provide information for clergy and church leaders to improve their mental wellness and those they serve. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Bishop Terry Hayness new book will bring a new awareness to the challenges faced by religious leaders who may experience burnout or fatigue during the care of their congregation. Bishop Haynes shares in hopes of raising recognition so current and future religious leaders can seek out resources for themselves and others. Consumers can purchase Mental Health and the Church: A Book for Pastors and Other Church Leaders at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about Mental Health and the Church: A Book for Pastors and Other Church Leaders, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP For more information about the class action lawsuit against Sunpower Corporation, Systems, call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. The San Francisco employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action lawsuit against Sunpower Corporation, Systems alleging the company violated the California Labor Code. The lawsuit against Sunpower Corporation, Systems is currently pending in the Santa Clara County Superior Court, Case No. 22CV402494. To read a copy of the Complaint, please click here. According to the lawsuit filed, Sunpower Corporation, Systems allegedly (a) failed to pay minimum wages, (b) failed to pay overtime wages, (c) failed to provide legally required meal and rest periods, (d) failed to provide accurate itemized wage statements, (e) failed to reimburse employees for required expenses, and (f) failed to pay sick pay wages, all in violation of the applicable Labor Code sections listed in California Labor Code Sections 201-204, 226, 226.7, 233, 246, 510, 512, 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 2802, and the applicable Wage Order(s), and thereby gives rise to civil penalties as a result of such alleged conduct. Sunpower Corporation, Systems allegedly failed to reimburse employees for required business expenses. California Labor Code 2802 expressly states that "an employer shall indemnify his or her employee for all necessary expenditures or losses incurred by the employee in direct consequence of the discharge of his or her duties..." During employment, Plaintiff and other California Class Members were allegedly required to use their personal cellular phones as a result of and in furtherance of their job duties. For more information about the class action lawsuit against Sunpower Corporation, Systems, call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is a labor law firm with law offices located in San Diego County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, Sacramento County, Santa Clara County, Orange County and San Francisco County. The firm has a statewide practice of representing employees on a contingency basis for violations involving unpaid wages, overtime pay, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination and other types of illegal workplace conduct. ***THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT*** Connecticut Innovations(CI), Connecticuts strategic venture capital arm and the leading source of financing and ongoing support for Connecticuts innovative, growing companies, today announced it invested $55 million in 108 companies in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. The year also generated $72 million in cash proceeds and nine exits through acquisitions and initial public offerings (IPOs)a record result for Connecticut Innovations. CIs investments also leveraged an additional $1.3 billion in outside capital. This past year was an active and successful year for our portfolio companies and for CI, said Matt Storeygard, senior managing director of investments at Connecticut Innovations. Our companies were able to attract a record amount of capital this year, which is an indicator of the health of the portfolio and the success of the companies. During the year, CI also announced the launch of the $100 million ClimateTech Fund (CT Fund) and the $50 million Future Fund. Those dollars will be put to work over the next 10 years. With the launch of two additional funds and federal funding from the American Rescue Plan, we will be able to put more dollars to work over the next 10 years, said Peter Longo, senior managing director of investments at Connecticut Innovations. We look forward to helping more promising and innovative companies over the next year. In addition to venture investments, CI also administers the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program. In FY2022, CI had 253 angels invest $18.6 million in 53 qualified Connecticut businesses through the program. About Connecticut Innovations: Connecticut Innovations (CI) is Connecticuts strategic venture capital arm and the leading source of financing and ongoing support for Connecticuts innovative, growing companies. CI provides venture capital and strategic support for early-stage technology companies, financial support for innovation and collaboration, and connections to its well-established network of partners and professionals. For more information, please visit http://www.ctinnovations.com. The Power to B jewelry company is donating 20% of the proceeds from every purchase of its limited-edition, pink bracelet to Breast Friends Fund charity to fight metastatic breast cancer in October. As a long-time customer and friend, we support Sandys commitment to find a cure for metastatic breast cancer, said Christina Baribault Ortiz of The Power to B. In fact, her positive spirit and unwavering determination inspired us to create the B Strong power word for our fine jewelry line. According to the American Cancer Society, about 287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women across the United States this year and 25% of them will have metastatic or stage 4 breast cancer. One woman who has chosen to look at her disease not as a burden, but as a way to help others is Glastonbury resident Sandy Cassanelli, who founded Breast Friends Fund (BFF), a non-profit organization dedicated to research and treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Now, Cassanelli charity is getting a boost from her BFF retailer - Baribault Jewelers and its premier The Power to B bracelet collection. Specifically, the family-owned business is hosting a Charity Shopping Event on Thursday, October 13, 2022, as well as offering a limited-edition The Power to B pink and silver bracelet throughout October National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in which BFF will receive 20% of the proceeds from both jewelry programs. As a long-time customer, friend and neighbor, we support and applaud Sandys commitment to find a cure for metastatic breast cancer, said Christina Baribault Ortiz, co-founder of The Power to B. In fact, her positive spirit and unwavering determination to raise awareness for this type of breast cancer was our inspiration in creating the B Strong power word for The Power to B collection. The Power to B bracelets encourage its wearers to B Strong, B Fierce, B Badass, B Limitless or B Fearless by linking the cursive phrases with a colorful cord or chain. The commemorative BFF bracelet is pink and silver, the signature colors of breast cancer awareness. The bracelet, which retails at an affordable $68 is available starting October 1, 2022 until inventory lasts at Baribault Jewelers store located at 81 Rankin Road in Glastonbury and on The Power to B website and at Water Street Jewelers in Guilford and Madison, CT. Besides the month-long bracelet campaign, Baribault Jewelers is also hosting a Charity Shopping Event on Thursday, October 13, 2022 from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. in which 20% of the proceeds from all jewelry purchases in the store and online will be donated to BFF. As one of my favorite shopping destinations, I am honored that Baribault Jewelers has made Breast Friends Fund the beneficiary of this powerful two-pronged initiative, said Sandy Cassanelli, founder and president of Breast Friends Fund. Theres a lot of competition among breast cancer charities this time of the year and we distinguish ourselves by earmarking every dollar to breast cancer research to produce a cure. Cassanelli further notes that 100% of monies raised through her volunteer-run non-profit are directed to Dr. Eric Winer, one of the foremost researchers on metastatic breast cancer in the country, who is leading a team of researchers at Yale New Haven Healths Smilow Cancer Hospital. Besides serving as Director of the Yale Cancer Center, Dr. Winer is a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and President-Elect of the American Society of Clinical Oncology(ASCO). As a family who has been in business for nearly 75 years, we always heed the call to help relatives and friends in need, adds Raeann Baribault Schwartz, co-founder of The Power to B. We consider Sandy our surrogate sister and hope that our charitable collaboration shines a spotlight on the urgency to find treatments and a cure for breast cancer. After all, its not just Sandy and her family who need a miracle - the entire world needs it. About The Power to B Created by sisters and designers Christina Baribault Ortiz and Raeann Baribault Schwartz in 2019, The Power to B fine jewelry collection aims to bring women together in joyful empowerment. The stunning 14k gold- or gold-plated phrase bracelets, necklaces and rings remind women to B Strong, B Fierce, B Badass, B Limitless or B Fearless. The Power to B is about being fearless enough to speak your dreams into the world and being strong enough to turn them into reality. Learn more at http://www.thepowertob.com. About Breast Friends Fund Sandy Cassarelli, a metastatic breast cancer survivor, created Breast Friends Fund (BFF) in 2016 as a fundraising initiative for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute with a goal of finding a cure for the Stage 4 disease. All donated funds are earmarked "restricted" for Dr. Eric Winer, an internationally renowned metastatic breast cancer researcher, who is currently serving as Director of Yale Cancer Center and Physician-in-Chief of Smilow Cancer Hospital in New Haven, Connecticut. As of 2022 BFF has raised close to $900,000 and growing each day. To ensure that a cure is found, BFF is volunteer-run, and operating costs are personally funded by Craig & Sandy Cassanelli. Sandy and her family feel a sense of urgency when it comes to supporting Dr. Winer and his team in their effort to find treatments and a cure for breast cancer for the future of our daughters, sisters, nieces, mothers, aunts, and friends. Visit http://www.breastfriendsfund.org for more information. Envoy Global, the technology leader that combines access to top legal talent with industry-leading technology to bring efficiency and transparency to the global immigration process, announced today that Aaron Flynn has joined the company as Immigration Director in Ireland. In his new role, Flynn will be a fundamental part of the companys continued expansion into global markets and will play a key role in helping organizations navigate employment-based immigration in Ireland. Flynn will leverage his expertise and insight to pilot this industry-leading practice group. I am excited to join Envoy Global to continue fulfilling my passion of immigration law and help clients navigate complex matters in a friendly and straightforward way, said Flynn of his new role. Im looking forward to learning and collaborating with an organization that is committed to providing the best possible immigration experience for its global client base. In my role, Ill be focused on providing solutions that lead to optimal results for clients. Flynn has 20 years of prior experience working in a diverse range of corporate, government and boutique firms. Flynn specialized in immigration law for 15 years, beginning in 2008 with his role as a State Solicitor with the Chief State Solicitors Office in the Immigration Division. He advised government departments, state authorities and the Garda National Immigration Bureau on all immigration matters, while acting in cases in the superior courts and as an agent for Ireland at the Court of Justice in Luxembourg. Aaron is also the founder of his own boutique law firm, Aaron Flynn Solicitors, which provides specialist immigration and employment advice. As we continue strengthening our global network, its vital we have strategic leadership that will accelerate success for our clients no matter what region of the world they are located in, said Sophy King, President, Global of Envoy Global. Were excited to welcome Aaron to our team and believe hell have a strong impact in the Ireland office as well as the broader European market. Aaron joining Envoy is a key part in our continued expansion and growth in global markets, said Dick Burke, JD, President and CEO of Envoy Global. I look forward to working closely with Aaron and am excited to see the core values and client-centric focus of Envoy Global propel even further. ### About Envoy Global Founded in 1998, Envoy Global is a global immigration services provider offering the only immigration management platform that makes it seamless for companies to hire and manage an international workforce. By combining expert legal representationfor both inbound and non-U.S. immigrationand proprietary technology, Envoy empowers companies to acquire the best talent regardless of where they live, while simultaneously managing their entire global workforce and enabling employees to take advantage of business opportunities around the globe. Envoy is a 2019 honoree of the 18th Annual Chicago Innovation Awards, 20th Annual Illinois Technology Association (ITA) CityLIGHTS Awards, Corporate Immigration & Relocation Best Global Corporate Immigration Platform, Built In Chicagos 2019 100 Best Places To Work and 50 Best Mid-Sized Places To Work and ChicagoInnos Coolest Companies List. Envoy is affiliated with two law firms, Global Immigration Associates, P.C. (GIA), who provide immigration legal services to companies and was ranked in the Chambers USA 2021 guide as a top law firm in Illinois within the immigration category, and Corporate Immigration Partners (CIP), an elite group of immigration attorneys and legal professionals who provide personalized immigration services to companies. Website, technology platform and administrative services are provided by Envoy Global Inc., a Delaware corporation. Legal services are provided by Envoy-affiliated attorneys. Please visit envoyglobal.com for more information or if interested in exploring an affiliation with Envoy. The demand for extended-stay hotels has grown exponentially in the last couple of years due to the pandemic and remote working, which have fundamentally changed travel and housing trends. A grand opening celebration was held Thursday in Corona, Calif., for the debut of the new Everhome Suites by Choice, an extended-stay hotel brand launched by Choice Hotels International Inc. and developed by Paladin Equity Capital. Woolpert provided architectural design for the Everhome Suites by Choice brand, which plans to expand nationwide. Everhome Suites by Choice has guestrooms that range in size from 324 square feet for a king bed studio to 658 square feet for a one-bedroom suite. The hotel and its suites were designed for comfort and convenience. Each suite includes a fully equipped kitchen, variable-height workstation, full-size closet and spa-like bathroom. The demand for extended-stay hotels has grown exponentially in the last couple of years due to the pandemic and remote working, which have fundamentally changed travel and housing trends, Woolpert Program Director for Hospitality Tim Reber said. Everhome Suites hotel is a culmination of Choice Hotels many years of experience in the extended-stay realm. When you add in the outstanding professionals at Paladin, it is easy to see why these hotels are attracting attention and investment opportunities. In June, Choice Hotels acquired the Radisson Hotel Group Americas. In July, ServiceStar Capital Management signed an agreement with Choice Hotels to develop Everhome Suites by Choice hotels across the country. Woolpert has provided design services for over a hundred projects with Choice Hotels, which is one of the largest lodging franchisers in the world. Were excited to work with Woolpert and the Paladin group on the exciting launch and expansion of our new brand Everhome Suites, Choice Hotels Senior Vice President of Development Ron Burgett said. With our recent acquisition and continued expansion, we now have more than 22 brands and more than 7,500 hotels. We trust Woolpert for our Everhome Suites rollout design because they can expertly handle a great volume of our brands with a wide variety of franchisees. About Woolpert Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG) and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is an ENR Top 150 Global Design Firm, earned six straight Great Place to Work certifications and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been Americas fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. The firm has 1,900 employees and more than 60 offices on four continents. For more, visit woolpert.com. Inspirational and Sermon Starter Stories: an inspiring collection of helpful messages to build upon. Inspirational and Sermon Starter Stories is the creation of published author Frank Massaro, a dedicated husband, US Army veteran, and graduate of William Penn University. Massaro also matriculated toward his masters degree at Central Missouri State College and Central Connecticut State College. Massaro shares, Twenty years ago, I began printing emails that contained short and long inspirational stories, quick quotes, poems, jokes, and other items that were forwarded by many of my Christian friends. I have finally organized these emails into those categories that will be useful while conducting Sunday school classes, bible study, delivering a sermon, addressing civic groups, changing a church sign, or to someone just needing a spiritual uplift. This is a book that will give a speaker an idea for a message, or an avid reader who only has a few minutes during a busy schedule to pause for an uplifting message. Its a book where you can start and stop at any time and come back to without having to review a previous chapter to get the impact of the story. You will find new Christian ideas and messages on every page. You can even make one of these stories into a church play or lyrics to a song. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Frank Massaros new book will challenge and motivate readers as they work to develop sermons, personal study, and so much more. Massaro shares hopes of encouraging others in their pursuit of an active and fulfilling spiritual life. Consumers can purchase Inspirational and Sermon Starter Stories at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about Inspirational and Sermon Starter Stories, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. Leander A. Dolphin I am honored to serve on Connecticuts Judicial Selection Commission, said Dolphin. That my fellow members have entrusted me to lead this mission-critical commission is one of the greatest professional commendations of my career." Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has appointed Leander A. Dolphin of Hartford to serve as a member of the Connecticut Judicial Selection Commission. The commission is the state body responsible for seeking and recommending to the governor qualified candidates for nomination as judges for the Superior Court, Appellate Court, and Supreme Court. It also evaluates incumbent judges who seek reappointment and forwards to the governor the names of those judges recommended for reappointment. When selecting nominees to serve as judges, state laws require the governor to select only those individuals whose names are on the list of qualified candidates approved by the Judicial Selection Commission. The groups 12 members are comprised of six attorneys and six non-attorneys who each serve three-year terms. They are uncompensated volunteers and are appointed by the governor and the Democratic and Republican leaders of the General Assembly. Dolphin will fill the seat previously held by Charles E. Tiernan, III, who until recently served as the commissions chairperson. At its most recent meeting on September 29, the commissions members voted on the selection of a new chairperson as required by state law and chose Dolphin to serve in that leadership role. The Judicial Selection Commission serves an incredibly influential role in state government because it is responsible for seeking and interviewing candidates who want to become judges, and governors must select judicial nominees solely based on the list of candidates the commission has approved, Governor Lamont said. Leanders background in private practice, including her years of counsel to educational institutions and organizations that foster the development of children, make her more than qualified to serve on this commission. I appreciate her willingness to take on this important responsibility on behalf of the state. I am honored to serve on Connecticuts Judicial Selection Commission, said Dolphin. That my fellow members have entrusted me to lead this mission-critical commission is one of the greatest professional commendations of my career. I pledge to oversee the commissions important work of evaluating and recommending judicial candidates based on merit while also consciously considering diversity in our organizational decisions and recommendations. Dolphin serves as managing partner of the law firm Shipman & Goodwin LLP, where she began her legal career in 2004. She has led the firms Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, served for three years on the management committee, and held the position of co-managing partner, before being elevated to managing partner in 2022. She is a member of Shipmans School Law Practice Group where she advises universities, colleges, public school districts, independent schools, and other public and private-sector clients on the full range of education and employment matters. This includes guidance on issues such as sexual harassment (Title IX), workplace health and safety standards in the COVID-19 era, and a range of equity and discrimination considerations. Dolphin is the former vice president of human resources and general counsel for the Girl Scouts of Connecticut. She graduated from Wesleyan University in 1999 with high honors and received her J.D. from Howard University School of Law in 2004. For many years, I was an active Civil War reenactor, avid model railroader and just love all things history, so the words for this thriller into the Wild West effortlessly flowed from pen to paper In The Ratten Expedition, author David A. Hornung shares the story of an alternate reality where the American Civil War lasted ten years, technology has significantly advanced and there are new, untamed creatures to face. After the civil war has ended, tensions are still high. The potential for another war is the least of the characters worries as a new terror stares them in the face. Main character, John Morton is recruited by Peter, his old army comrade who is now a priest, to find his missing parishioners. This does not turn out easy to solve, as he is taken on a journey across the country and faced with a roller coaster of dangerous adventures. Morton and Peter are recruited to join an eclectic undercover government team. Morton adapts to his position with his new alliance quickly a priest, an assassin, an inventor and an orphaned girl. The team embarks on a race to rescue the union. The book follows the adventures of Morton and the team as they attempt to stop a pair of crazed, vengeful renegade scientists who have their minds set on destroying the union. I have always had a passion for steampunk adventure, Hornung said. For many years, I was an active Civil War reenactor, avid model railroader and just love all things history, so the words for this thriller into the Wild West effortlessly flowed from pen to paper. The Ratten Expedition By David A. Hornung ISBN: 978-1-4917-7476-2 (softcover); 978-1-4917-7475-5 (e-book) Available through iUniverse, Barnes & Noble and Amazon About the author David A. Hornung has a wide variety of experiences, from being a professional Boy Scout, airport cop, working in the chemical process industry for over 20 years, in the construction business for another 20+ years, teaching as a college professor and serving as a chaplains assistant. David holds an Associate of Applied Science in Chem Tech from Erie Community College, Williamsville, N.Y., a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from Christ the King Seminary, East Aurora, N.Y., a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Warren National University, Cheyanne, Wyo., a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and a Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the State University of New York, Buffalo, N.Y. For more information, please visit http://www.davidahornung.com. General Inquiries, Review Copies & Interview Requests: LAVIDGE Phoenix Chris Lopez clopez@lavidge.com OMG is proud to be the only online store platform that is SOC 2 Type 1 compliant. Keeping our clients protected is our top priority, says Daniel Hodges, Senior Vice President of Engineering. OrderMyGear (OMG), the leading online store platform for selling custom branded merchandise to groups, announces it has successfully completed the Service Organization Control (SOC) 2 Type 1 audit, making it the first online store platform to achieve this certification in the promotional product and team sporting goods space. Companies that achieve SOC 2 compliance undergo a rigorous technical audit by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), which certifies the company meets strict requirements around security, privacy, availability, and confidentiality of customer data. We hold ourselves to the highest standard when it comes to the security of our clients and their customers, says Daniel Hodges, Senior Vice President of Engineering. OrderMyGear is proud to be the only online store platform that is SOC 2 Type 1 compliant. Keeping our clients protected is our top priority as a company and as a partner. Using an online store solution that is SOC 2 compliant empowers promotional product distributors, decorators, and team dealers to sell more branded merchandise online, without concerns about the security of their data or their customers data. With cybersecurity incidents on the rise and more and more businesses selling online, this certification has become increasingly important, says Dustin Downing, Chief Product Officer. The SOC 2 certification demonstrates OMGs commitment to having the proper controls in place so clients can be confident that when they partner with OMG, their data is safe. As one of the leading standards for SaaS security, the SOC 2 attestation is only granted after a comprehensive audit process that covers AICPAs Five Trust and Integrity Principles: privacy, security, confidentiality, availability, and processing integrity. OMG is currently pursuing a SOC 2 Type 2 report. For more information on OMG security and compliance, visit https://www.ordermygear.com/security/. About OrderMyGear OrderMyGear (OMG) is an industry-leading sales tool, empowering distributors, decorators, and dealers to create sleek, retail-like online stores for every customer big or small. Since 2008, OMG has been on a mission to simplify the process of selling branded products and apparel to groups and improve the ordering experience. With easy-to-use tools and unmatched support, the OMG platform powers online stores for over 3,500 clients generating more than $2 billion in online sales. Learn more at http://www.ordermygear.com. P2 Science, Inc., a green chemistry company, is proud to announce that the company has won the Best Base Ingredient Award at the Cosmetics & Toiletries Alle Awards in New York. Cosmetics & Toiletries produced the awards dinner in conjunction with the Beauty Accelerate event at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan. The awards are intended to recognize innovations ranging from cosmetic ingredients and product formulas to digital technologies. Attendees and nominees included leading members of the cosmetics industry both ingredient suppliers and brands. Judges for the awards included members of Estee Lauder, Burts Bees, Amway, Chanel, Oriflame, LOreal and others. The award specifically recognized and honored the ingenuity of Citropol H, a patented member of the Citropol range of superior performing silicone-and petrochemical-alternatives introduced to the global market in 2020. This biorenewable, biodegradable and biocompatible range of ingredients delivers strong differentiating performance in many brands of skincare and haircare products around the world. Accepting the award on behalf of P2, Ryan Cheng, VP Sales, said, Customers around the world have been telling us how much they love our products. However, it is also great to be recognized by such a prestigious group of judges with this award. Neil Burns, P2s CEO added, Many people worked many long hours to get us to this point. This award is a dream come true for the whole company. About P2 Science: P2 Science is a green chemistry company, co-founded by Professor Paul Anastas, head of the Yale Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering and Dr. Patrick Foley. P2 has developed and patented technologies for converting renewable feedstocks into high-value specialty products. Investors in P2 include BASF Venture Capital, Xeraya Capital, Elm Street Ventures, Connecticut Innovations, Ironwood Capital, HG Ventures and Chanel. The company started up its first manufacturing plant in September of 2018 which produces novel renewable aroma chemicals and cosmetic ingredients. The C&T Alle award is the 3rd award the company has won in as many weeks. P2 also won Best Breakthrough Supplier in the Innovation category at the BeautyMatter NEXT Award, and first place at the BSB Innovation Award in the Environment category. For more information, visit http://www.p2science.com. Touched by the Hand of God: In the City of Angels SEND ME!: a heartfelt celebration of the good that one can accomplish and acknowledgment of the tribulations that go hand-in-hand with serving as an officer of the law. Touched by the Hand of God: In the City of Angels SEND ME! is the creation of published author Patricia L. Blake, who holds a bachelors degree in criminology from California State University of Northridge and a masters degree from University of Phoenix in Organizational Leadership, as well as completion of the Departments intensive West Point Leadership Course and the Departments Instructors Development Course. In 2015, she was recognized by the Los Angeles Women Police Officers and Associates (LAWPOA) for outstanding achievements, leadership, and mentoring contribution to the organization. Blake was affiliated with LAWPOA and the California Peace Officers Association (CPOA). Blake shares, The author, Patricia Lynn Blake, joined the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in May of 1983, with a career which spanned over thirty-three years. She is presently an LAPD active reserve police officer. Join Blake as she portrays the human emotional side of police work with personal accounts of intense life and death field incidents. Live the LAPD motto, To Protect and to Serve. Set up perimeters, contain, chase, and apprehend the suspect. Live the calling to get the bad guys. Personally glimpse the grief and emotional impact of tragic incidents no person should have to see, forever imprinted in memory no matter how hard you try to forget. Ride shotgun as you respond Code Three in a black-and-white police vehicle to shots fired calls, officer needs help radio broadcasts, tense vehicle pursuits, and dangerous combative suspects. Be ready for an emotional and unique ride with field patrol officers. Blake provides a powerful testimony of a traumatic event in her youth wherein she experienced a miracle that impacted and changed the rest of her life. Make no mistake, this is an account of good versus evil. For Blake and the majority of police officers, law enforcement is a true calling to protect the innocent and the vulnerable and to make a difference. This writing is dedicated to all the first responders and protectors on the front line, blessed by God, who sends guardian angels to watch over, shield, and protect them. These courageous warriors put on their kevlar vests, badges, and uniforms and risk their lives on a daily basis to protect total strangers. God also calls our first responders and military warriors in the form of guardian angels to shield and protect those in their moments of desperate need. Evil comes in many shapes and forms to deceive and defeat Gods eternal love. Believe in and recognize both daily small miracles as well as the rare life-changing miracles. When God calls upon us asking Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? The majority of our first responder warriors respond without hesitation'SEND ME! By Gods design, there are no coincidences. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Patricia L. Blakes new book will pull at the heartstrings as readers immerse themselves in life-changing calls to serve. Blake brings new clarity to the highs and lows of law enforcement within the pages of this eye-opening autobiographical work. Consumers can purchaseTouched by the Hand of God: In the City of Angels SEND ME! at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about Touched by the Hand of God: In the City of Angels SEND ME!, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. Neil is a renowned leader whose financial acumen and knowledge of the retail and consumer product spaces are unmatched, said Stuart H. Kessler, Chief Executive Officer of PKF Clear Thinking. PKF Clear Thinking, LLC, the award-winning business advisory firm and subsidiary of PKF OConnor Davies, LLP, one of the nations largest accounting, tax and advisory firms, today announced that it has hired Neil Canty as Managing Director. Canty comes to the Firm with more than three decades of senior-level experience spearheading the financial operations of numerous million- and billion-dollar businesses. Neil is a renowned leader whose financial acumen and knowledge of the retail and consumer product spaces are unmatched, said Stuart H. Kessler, Chief Executive Officer of PKF Clear Thinking. His depth of expertise and commitment to operational excellence are squarely in line with what our clients have come to expect from our team. I have no doubt he will be a major asset to our work. Over the course of his career, Canty has been a trusted financial partner to some of the largest and most prominent brands in the United States and North America, including PUMA, Staples, BJs Wholesale Club and The Paper Store. His multifaceted areas of expertise include strategic planning, accounting operations, post-bankruptcy management, financial reporting and analysis, loss prevention, team development, system design and implementation, process improvement, and financial planning. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Bentley University. Ive been fortunate to work with many organizations over the past 30-plus years, gaining a keen understanding of what exactly it takes to ensure longstanding financial and operational success, Canty said. I look forward to bringing that insiders perspective to the Firms client partnerships as I transition into the next chapter of my career. About PKF Clear Thinking, LLC PKF Clear Thinking, LLC, a subsidiary of PKF OConnor Davies, offers advisory services that help companies succeed, at any stage of their life cycle, with clear direction and practical, actionable solutions. The Firm engages with healthy companies to create value and works with troubled companies to preserve value. Our track record and years of experience working on hundreds of successful engagements has propelled us to become a trusted and respected advisor. For more information, visit https://www.pkfct.com/. About PKF OConnor Davies, LLP PKF OConnor Davies, LLP, is a full-service certified public accounting and advisory firm with a long history of serving clients both domestically and internationally. With roots tracing to 1891, the Firm has 18 offices in the United States and abroad. In the U.S., offices are located across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Florida, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, where PKF OConnor Davies has recently merged in Boston-based DGC and expanded its footprint in the New England market. The Firm also has an office in Mumbai, India. PKF OConnor Davies employs more than 1,400 professionals who provide a complete range of accounting, auditing, tax and management advisory services. The Firm is led by over 150 partners who are closely involved in the day-to-day management of engagements, ensuring a high degree of client service and cost effectiveness. The Firm is a top-ranked firm, according to Accounting Todays 2022 Top 100 Firms list and was recently recognized as one of Americas Best Tax and Accounting Firms by Forbes. PKF O'Connor Davies was named one of Vault's 2022 Accounting 50, a ranking of the 50 best accounting employers to work for in North America and ranked among the top 50 most prestigious accounting firms in America in a complementary Vault survey. PKF OConnor Davies is the lead North American representative of the international association of PKF member firms. PKF International is a network of legally independent member firms providing accounting, tax and business advisory services in over 400 locations in 150 countries around the world. With its tradition, experience and focus on the future, PKF OConnor Davies is ready to help clients meet todays ever-changing economic conditions and manage the growing complexities of the regulatory environment. For more information, visit http://www.PKFOD.com. 2022 Toyota Highlander Prospective buyers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, can now reserve a new Toyota or a used vehicle at Baierl Toyota and get a great deal Prospective buyers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, can now reserve a new Toyota or a used vehicle at Baierl Toyota and get a great deal. There are new Toyota models like RAV4, Highlander, Camry and Tacoma that customers can check out at the dealership. There are also used vehicles that are coming in. The dealerships website may not show them yet, but the customers can visit the dealership to get a preview of these vehicles. Furthermore, customers can also reserve a car by filling out an online form. They have to provide the dealership with their name, email address and zip code. After the prospective buyers have chosen a vehicle for themselves, they can apply for an auto loan at the dealership. The dealerships finance team will work with various banks and lending organizations to tailor a loan package that fits the requirements of the prospective buyers. All interested parties are encouraged to visit https://www.baierltoyota.com/ or call 724-687-6100 for more information about this new offer. They can also visit the dealership in person at 19045 Perry Hwy, Mars, PA. With SCFHP DualConnect, we aim to continue supporting our members by offering the seamless care coordination they received with Cal MediConnect and welcome all new members who would benefit from the support of our local staff and provider network. Starting October 15, 2022, eligible Santa Clara county residents can enroll in the integrated plan that combines their Medi-Cal and Medicare benefits (acute, primary, institutional, and home and community-based services) under a single plan to make managing health care easier. SCFHPs currently enrolled 10,480 Cal MediConnect members will also transition into DualConnect. Coverage for both newly enrolled SCFHP members and transitioning Cal MediConnect members will start January 1, 2023. The transition from the Cal MediConnect demonstration project to a dual eligible special needs plan is part of the Department of Health Care Services California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative and will expand the care coordination and integration that dual eligible beneficiaries received with Cal MediConnect. SCFHP DualConnect will align care for members by meeting integrated D-SNP care coordination requirements, simplifying complex member materials, and limiting membership to dually eligible individuals who are also enrolled in SCFHPs Medi-Cal plan. Managing ones health is not easy, especially when juggling multiple government benefit programs, said Thien Ly, Director of Medicare Outreach. With SCFHP DualConnect, we aim to continue supporting our members by offering the seamless care coordination they received with Cal MediConnect and welcome all new members who would benefit from the support of our local staff and provider network. With SCFHP DualConnect, members receive: A choice of hundreds of primary care doctors. Access to most area hospitals. Access to thousands of specialists. A care coordinator and an Individualized Care Plan to help you reach your health care goals. $0 copay for prescription drugs. Up to $135 for over-the-counter (OTC) items every three months. $0 fitness membership at YMCA of Silicon Valley locations. Prescriptions available at most national chains and at independent pharmacies in Santa Clara County. A 24-hour nurse advice line. Resource navigation, health and wellness classes, and in-person support at the SCFHP Blanca Alvarado Community Resource Center in East San Jose. Bilingual staff who speak Spanish and Vietnamese plus interpreter services in any language at no cost. For questions about enrollment, visit http://www.scfhp.com/dualconnect or call 1-888-202-3353 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. About Santa Clara Family Health Plan Santa Clara Family Health Plan (SCFHP) is a local, community-based health plan dedicated to creating opportunities for better health and wellness for all. In partnership with providers and community organizations since 1997, we work to ensure everyone in Santa Clara County has access to equitable, high-quality health care. With a strong commitment to integrity, outstanding service, and support for our community, we serve more than 315,000 people through our Medi-Cal and Cal MediConnect health care plans. For more information, visit http://www.scfhp.com. ### "We have plenty of MSPs in The 20's growth platform who are ready to be rolled up," said Tim Conkle, CEO. "And because we've worked closely with these companies, a lot of the integrative work that traditional mergers require is already done, allowing us to consolidate quickly and seamlessly." The 20 MSP, a leading managed IT services provider with offices nationwide, today announced its acquisition of four MSPs located in four different states. This announcement comes during a period of rapid growth for The 20, as the company looks to strengthen its national platform and expand into new markets. Last month, The 20 acquired six MSPs. The four companies joining The 20 are WOLFGUARD IT (Montana), BOLDER Designs (Delaware), Byte-Werx (Arkansas), and JS Computek (Missouri). As members of The 20's MSP growth platform, these organizations have all experienced steady growth over the past several years and success across a variety of industry verticals. The 20's leadership team looks forward to continuing collaboration with its new team members, and to drawing on their collective expertise and resources to build out more sophisticated solutions and higher-value offerings for clients. "I'm thrilled to be joining forces with these organizations," said Tim Conkle, CEO of The 20. "These are operationally mature MSPs that believe in doing things the right way. Together, we're going to keep pushing the boundaries of what MSPs can do for small and medium-sized businesses. The future's looking very bright," added Conkle. These acquisitions by The 20 MSP expand the company's national footprint, and further an aggressive growth plan that mirrors the vigorous consolidation activity being observed across the MSP industry. Pinecrest Capital Partners served as the exclusive financial advisor to The 20 on the acquisitions and associated financing. The 20 has more acquisitions lined up in the coming months. "We have plenty of MSPs in The 20's growth platform who are ready to be rolled up," said Conkle. "And because we've worked closely with these companies, a lot of the integrative work that traditional mergers require is already done, allowing us to consolidate quickly and seamlessly. This is an exciting step forward, but it's one of many we plan on taking." About The 20 MSP The 20 MSP has been helping businesses succeed through better technology since 1986. As a leading provider of managed IT services, The 20 MSP serves hundreds of businesses nationwide, providing each one with white glove service, secure and streamlined IT infrastructure, and 24/7/365 support. We believe in building lasting relationships with clients founded on trust, communication, and the delivery of high-value services for a fair and predictable price. Our clients' success is our success, and we are committed to helping each and every organization we serve leverage technology to secure a competitive advantage and achieve new growth. To learn more, visit the20msp.com About The 20 MSP Group The 20 is an exclusive business development group for Managed Service Providers (MSP) aimed at dominating and revolutionizing the IT industry with its standardized all-in-one approach. The 20s robust RMM, PSA, and documentation platform ensures superior service for its MSPs clients utilizing their completely US-based Help Desk and Network Operations Center. Extending beyond proven tools and processes, The 20 touts a proven sales model, a community of industry-leading MSPs, and ultimate scalability. To learn more, visit the20.com "It was all so real. I want people to know how hard we worked and fought against the odds," she said. In this book M*A*S*H Vietnam: What it's like to be a war nurse, Griess has written about her experiences while serving in Vietnam as a combat nurse. The author, Lorna Griess, spent 30 years of her life as an army nurse serving in hospitals worldwide and retired as a full colonel and chief nurse at Letterman Army Medical Center. Griess was on a search for a new challenge after retiring from the military when she decided to pen down her memoirs from the time she spent in a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) in Vietnam's combat zone. Her goal was to capture the authentic accounts of her time spent there as a young nurse who saw the horrors of war firsthand. M*A*S*H gives a backstage view of the conditions in which she performed her duties, which were full of chaos, uncertainty, and stress. What it was like to constantly movie, treat the wounded, work under the impending life threat and the traumas it can leave on those involved. "It was all so real. I want people to know how hard we worked and fought against the odds," she said. The book also sheds light on another battle Griess had to fight, the emotional one when returning home. She had mixed emotions and was uncertain about how people close to her would treat her back home. Whether or not they'll be able to relate to someone who's seen the war as close as anyone can. Griess' book has been praised for its realistic portrayal of a period that is often misunderstood. Anyone looking to read this middle of the war memorial to get an idea of how it affects the lives of those on the front lines can order it on Amazon in both Kindle and Paperback formats. About Lorna Griess: Lorna Griess made the Army Nurse Corps her career after her tour in Vietnam. She served in hospitals worldwide for almost thirty years and retired as a full colonel and chief nurse at Letterman Army Medical Center on the Presidio in San Francisco (now closed). Fully retired from nursing, she joined the Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters, and became their legislative liaison. Griess serves as a veterans' advocate in the California State Legislature. She also is a member of several other veterans' organizations, including Vietnam Veterans, AMVETS, and VFW. She writes articles reporting on current legislation for local newsletters. For relaxation, she has become an artist. Her oil paintings have been on display at several galleries around Sacramento, including the Crocker Art Gallery. Website: https://authorlornagriess.com More Than a Ticket to Heaven: 101 days discovering your identity, inheritance, and influence as a child of God.: an inspiring and eye-opening daily devotional for readers eager to discover the full impact of what it truly means to be born-again. More Than a Ticket to Heaven: 101 days discovering your identity, inheritance, and influence as a child of God. is the creation of published author Wendy Lee Kremer, a graduate of Charis Bible College in Woodland Park, Colorado, with graduate studies in World Outreach. She is a licensed minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, an international conference speaker, a Bible teacher, author, a Christian blogger, and a daily disciple of Jesus. Kremer and her husband, Don. have developed several businesses, including a trucking company and an award-winning online nutrition business. They have also helped many other entrepreneurs establish successful businesses. Married thirty-four years, they are blessed with four children, ten grandchildren, and a growing number of great-grandchildren. Kremer shares, Have you ever thought to yourself Is this all there is to the Christian life? Where is the abundant life Jesus promised? Is God mad at me? Will I ever measure up to His standards? Youre a child of God. Youve got your ticket to heaven and know your mansion is waiting for you on the other side. However, its right here on earth, in your own home, that you could use some help. But God seems a million miles away. Having grown up with a legalistic, works-based version of Christianity, Wendy Lee Kremer struggled with these thoughts for many years. She says, I learned all the dos and donts, but I had no power to do the dos! After a devastating divorce that left her a single mom with two young children, she turned her back on Goduntil a near-death experience abruptly halted her escape. She knew God had rescued her and given her a second chance. Wendy became tenacious in discovering the truth of Gods love and gracesearching for the secrets to living Gods kingdom lifestyle in power, peace, and prosperity. Now, she is passionate about helping others realize their unique, supernatural identity. She teaches how to claim their inheritance as a coheir with Jesus Christ and use their influence as a king and priest in Gods kingdom (Revelation 1:6). Get ready for a revelation that will knock your socks off! More Than a Ticket to Heaven explores your rights and privileges as a child of God. Youll enjoy 101 days discovering how to apply Gods promises to practical everyday life situations, so youll always stay in peace and power. Youll courageously pull back your shoulders and stand up taller when you realize the irrevocable authority God has given you as His representative, His king on earth. Youll find yourself boldly enforcing your inheritance in the kingdom and not backing down in the face of opposition. Youll discover that salvation is more than just a ticket to heaven. It is the power to bring heaven to earth! Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Wendy Lee Kremers new book will challenge and motivate readers to embrace their identity in Christ and trust His promises for lifes challenges. Kremer draws from formal training, personal study, and experience to empower new and mature believers. Consumers can purchase More Than a Ticket to Heaven: 101 days discovering your identity, inheritance, and influence as a child of God. at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about More Than a Ticket to Heaven: 101 days discovering your identity, inheritance, and influence as a child of God., contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. Click here for old website Chicago-based Independent Publishers Group has begun the overhaul of its U.K. distribution subsidiary. IPG bought United Independent Distributors (UID), which was formed in 2019 following a series of acquisitions, last October. In an announcement, IPG said it is implementing a four-part plan to integrate and stabilize UID that will involve harmonizing its Eurospan, Marston, and Orca operations into a single entity. Orca has experienced well-reported problems with its stock control, causing client publishers to suffer losses. As part of the reorganization, UIDs Eurospan unit distribution will now go through Marston Book Services systems. As of October 1, all orders for publishers distributed by Eurospan will be processed by the customer service team at Marston. IPG also said that, having been unable to find a buyer for its Turpin Distribution unit, which specializes in the distribution of scholarly publications, it is placing the company into administration. Accompanying those structural moves, IPG has reorganized its U.K. management team, and is implementing a one-time reduction in staff across the companies. Joe Matthews, IPGs global CEO based in Chicago, will now spend equal time in the U.S. and U.K. Frank Autunnale has been appointed global CFO, overseeing finance and accounting teams in both countries. Among other leadership changes, Mark Chaloner will remain UID group COO, overseeing facilities, interdepartmental communication, and warehouse management. Imogen Adams, managing director of Eurospan, will continue to oversee Eurospan publishers, but will join the global business development team, which will allow her to offer services in both the U.K. and U.S. markets. Adamss team will include Catherine Lawn Edwards, head of marketing, and Michelle Zappa, head of sales. Adams will oversee the accounts used by all divisions, and will continue to manage international academic sales, with her U.S.-based counterpart, Scott Hatfill, handling international trade sales as the U.S. and U.K. international programs are merged. Commenting on the reorganization, Matthews said that this restructuring of the U.K. has long been anticipated and the leadership team is excited to execute our plans to build a strong and enduring future for the business. New smart soft contact lens technology developed by a multidisciplinary team of engineers and health care researchers at Purdue University and Indiana University School of Optometry looks to gather important intraocular pressure measurements for 24-hour cycles as a way to detect glaucoma. (Purdue University photo/Rebecca McElhoe) WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. The vision of Purdue University biomedical engineer Chi Hwan Lee to develop specialized smart soft contact lenses that can accurately measure intraocular pressure (IOP) in a persons eye could be the latest answer to stopping glaucoma-related blindness. Lee, the Leslie A. Geddes Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering in Purdues Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, led a research team that developed new ocular technology to continuously monitor patients IOP readings more comfortably and accurately. The technology serves as another option for eye specialists to identify glaucoma, which, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, can steal a persons vision without early warning signs or pain and affects more than 80 million people worldwide. The only known modifiable risk factor is lowering a persons IOP, which is difficult to monitor for long periods of time, particularly during sleep. While exams can be performed in a specialists office and at-home monitoring systems are available, these all have their limitations. For instance, in-office measures are time-consuming, and current at-home technology is difficult to use, is uncomfortable and doesnt gather sufficient data at the right time periods or over long enough time periods for specialists to appropriately use the information to make optimized treatment decisions. The new technology is highlighted in a study published in the journal Nature Communications. The study compares Purdues technology to the current gold standard and other home monitoring systems and examines how the Purdue technology can gather important IOP measurements for 24-hour cycles, even during sleep. The technology was developed by a multidisciplinary group of engineers and health care researchers from Purdues colleges of Engineering and Veterinary Medicine and the Indiana University School of Optometry. The largest increase in IOP often occurs while people are lying down, when overnight IOP is typically 10% to 20% greater than daytime IOP. Vision loss may occur during sleep without the patient noticing it, even if daytime in-clinic or at-home measurements indicate normal IOP, said Lee, who has a joint appointment in the School of Mechanical Engineering and a courtesy appointment in the School of Materials Engineering. Lee, who has worked on this technology for six years, specializes in sticktronics, which are stickerlike items that contain electronics or smart technology. His lab develops wearable biomedical devices that can continuously monitor chronic diseases or health conditions in an unobtrusive manner. Dr. Pete Kollbaum, professor and associate dean for research with the Indiana University School of Optometry and director of the schools Borish Center for Ophthalmic Research, has worked with Lee since 2019. Kollbaums Clinical Optics Research Lab group, which researches contact lens technologies, helped with the human clinical testing and provided feedback for design improvements. Some of the current wearable tonometers or devices that measure the pressure inside ones eyes are equipped with an integrated circuit chip, which leads to increased thickness and is stiffer than a typical commercial soft contact lens, in many cases causing discomfort for patients. Lees version is different. To address this unmet need, we developed a unique class of smart soft contact lenses built upon various commercial brands of soft contact lenses for continuous 24-hour IOP monitoring, even during sleep at home, Lee said. Our smart soft contact lenses retain the intrinsic lens features of lens power, biocompatibility, softness, transparency, wettability, oxygen transmissibility and overnight wearability. Having all these features at the same time is crucial to the success of translating the smart soft contact lenses into glaucoma care, but these features are lacking in current wearable ocular tonometers. The tonometer on the Purdue-developed contact lens sensor creates a wireless recording that is transmitted to a receiver in a pair of eyeglasses for daytime IOP measurement and a sleep mask for IOP measurement when sleeping. The complete 24-hour IOP rhythm data can be shared with clinicians remotely via an encrypted server. The tonometer can generate an audible alert for detection of IOP elevation, allowing appropriate action to take place and reducing the need for clinic visits. This tonometer is significantly more comfortable than any other type of contact lens sensor we have come across and more comfortable than any currently available commercially available IOP sensor, Kollbaum said. This is related to the technology that Lee uses to apply the sensor to the lens, retaining a very thin overall sensor, and to the fact that the lens itself is a time-tested, commercially available lens, leveraging the clinical studies and associated time and money the contact lens manufacturers have spent to assure a comfortable lens. Kollbaum said that not only do the specialized contact lenses provide crisp vision, just as any contact lens would, but the technology also expands the benefits for both patients and eye specialists, who have wanted less expensive and more comfortable ways to monitor eye changes for years. The eye is a very challenging body part that is even softer, more sensitive and curvilinear when compared to the skin, Lee said. We hope our approach can be also tailored for aiding and detecting other chronic ocular diseases and for other functions.Lee and colleagues have a proposal for additional clinical trials with glaucoma patients who have dry eye diseases or who have had glaucoma surgery. They are also working with Boomerang Ventures, with which Purdue has a partnership, to incorporate the technology into clinical practice. In addition to Lee and Kollbaum, members of the research team were Shin Ae Park, Seul Ah Lee, Bryan W. Boudouris, Yumin Dai, Keely E. Harris, Bongjoong Kim, Ho Joong Kim, Kyunghun Kim, Hyowon (Hugh) Lee, Kangying Liu, Haesoo Moon, Woohyun Park, Jay V. Shah and Jinyuan Zhang from Purdue; Dawn Meyer from the Indiana University School of Optometry; and Pedro Irazoqui and Brett Collar from Johns Hopkins University. The technology was disclosed to the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC), which has applied for a provisional patent from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to protect the intellectual property. For information on licensing opportunities, contact Patrick Finnerty of OTC at pwfinnerty@prf.org about 2021-LEE-69240. Lees work at Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering is just one of many life-changing projects conducted by the biomedical engineering faculty and students. Many of those projects are partnerships among Weldon, health care providers, medical researchers and medical device companies that are key in taking aspects from classes and research labs into clinical settings. About Purdue University Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked in each of the last five years as one of the 10 Most Innovative universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at https://stories.purdue.edu. Writer: Matthew Oates, 765-586-7496 (cell); oatesw@purdue.edu; @mo_oates Media contact: Brian Huchel, bhuchel@purdue.edu Sources: Chi Hwan Lee, lee2270@purdue.edu ; Pete Kollbaum, kollbaum@indiana.edu Smart soft contact lenses for continuous 24-hour monitoring of intraocular pressure in glaucoma care Nature Communications DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33254-4 The abstract is available online. The J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Television Service Provider Satisfaction Study is designed to provide a detailed assessment of customer perceptions of service with their current television provider. It measures overall satisfaction with television service providers based on seven factors: performance and reliability; cost of service; programming; communications and promotions; billing and payment; features and functionality; and customer care. The research is based on responses from 23,387 customers and was fielded from November 2021 through August 2022.According to the research, live television streamers say they pay less for their live television, as the self-reported average cost for cable and satellite television is $110 per month and the average cost for streaming is $68 per month. The study finds that Overall satisfaction is 699 (on a 1,000-point scale) for cable and satellite and 774 for streaming. Among both groups, the biggest driver for choosing a television provider is a lower price.Delivering video to myriad devices both in-home and mobile is actually pretty difficult and yet the service providers in cable, satellite and streaming all make it look easy, creating ever higher customer expectations, noted Ian Greenblatt, managing director at J.D. Power commenting on the study findings Highest quality content is quite costly to produce or acquire for all providers. Operating the needed networks and equipment for cable and satellite TV from start to finish versus streamers who can use those networks for middle and last-mile delivery for hundreds of thousands of concurrent streams, are vastly different at a product level regarding cost. Live TV streamers (and their customers) are therefore the beneficiaries of the imbalance and can be seen as providing more value for the subscription dollars spent.DISH ranked highest in the cable/satellite TVnational segment for a fifth consecutive year, with a score of 720. Xfinity (706) ranked second and DIRECTV (699) ranks third. Verizon Fios was highest in the cable/satellite TVeast region with a score of 749. DISH (713) ranks second and Xfinity (699) ranks third.Midco was highest in the cable/satellite TVnorth central region with a score of 721. Xfinity ranks second with a score of 701 and DISH ranks third with a score of 699. DISH ranks highest in the cable/satellite TVsouth region with a score of 736. Xfinity ranks second (719) and DIRECTV ranks third (710). DISH ranks highest in the cable/satellite TV west region with a score of 716, followed by Xfinity (705). FuboTV ranks highest in the live TV streaming segment with a score of 789. Sling TV (786) ranks second and YouTube TV (779) ranks third. By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 10/03/2022 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. alum Aaron Clancy has dished about his relationship with Genevieve Parisi and addressed rumors the pair had allegedly hooked up before filming Paradise.Season 8 previews show Aaron will be arriving at the beach in Mexico soon, and Genevieve is already there hoping to meet her match in the coming days.While fans have yet to see if Aaron and Genevieve will get together and date in Paradise, Aaron responded to the claim Shanae Ankney had made at The Bachelor: The Women Tell All earlier this year that Genevieve had slid into Aaron's DMs and the pair hooked up off-camera.Genevieve previously denied Shanae's accusation, and Aaron, 28, told Us Weekly that he was "shocked" to hear it as well when he watched The Women Tell All for Clayton Echard 's season in March."I didn't think that my name would be mentioned. I thought I was completely irrelevant," Aaron said on a recent episode of the magazine's "Here for the Right Reasons" podcast."Essentially what really happened was I just met Genevieve -- I had met her twice, but just in passing randomly at a bar. [We] said a couple of words to each other, hugged, but [were] completely platonic. I didn't really even know her."The hookup rumors were fueled several weeks later when The Bachelor fans caught Aaron and Genevieve sitting next to each other at Clayton's After the Final Rose taping in March."The seating arrangement isn't random. They did that on purpose, [it] wasn't our choice. Nothing changed [between us]," said the San Diego-based insurance agent.However, all of the speculation apparently made Aaron contemplate what dating Genevieve may actually be like."It made me really kind of look and see -- is there potentially something [there] or why not give it a shot? We're both on the beach, that' what it's for," Aaron shared. "I definitely figured, 'Why not?'"Aaron recalled entering Paradise with an "open mind" when he filmed Season 8, adding how he didn't plan on "targeting anyone" in particular."Obviously, you know, I did find love with James the previous season," Aaron joked about his bromance with James Bonsall on 's seventh season last summer."But it didn't really work out the way I had hoped. You try to find a romantic connection, so figured why not give it one more shot."Aaron, who found fame when he competed for Katie Thurston 's heart on The Bachelorette's seventeenth season last year, said he learned "not to be so impulsive [and] reactionary" over the last year."I think that the first time I was a little bit more emotionally driven than this next season. So yeah, just really maturing and understanding how the process works a little bit better," Aaron noted.At The Bachelor: The Women Tell All, Genevieve, 26, was taken aback when her enemy on Clayton's season, Shanae, announced to the world how she had allegedly slept with Aaron.When Genevieve bluntly and firmly denied it, Shanae pushed in front of the audience, "You never f-cked him?"And Genevieve, a Los Angeles bartender originally from Massachusetts, shouted in reply, "Never!"Genevieve told Us in March of the scandal after it aired, "I think I was more shocked than when Clayton asked me if I was an actress."Genevieve was referring to how Clayton had questioned the bachelorette's sincerity and intentions on The Bachelor's 26th season."I saw Aaron at a bar and I posted a picture with him... I didn't even kiss Aaron. And that's why I was just, like, 'What?'" Genevieve insisted.Genevieve said she didn't know Aaron "that well" at the time."I met him once at a bar for five minutes, so I don't know his personality," Genevieve explained."He seems really nice, and he is very handsome. I'm not saying no. But there definitely hasn't been anything between us and that's scary because I don't want it to be a thing. I don't want it to be an issue."'s eighth season just premiered on Tuesday, and the show will continue to air on Monday and Tuesday nights on ABC.Interested in more The Bachelor news? Join our The Bachelor Facebook Group Kim Kardashian has launched her own true crime podcast. ADVERTISEMENT The 41-year-old television personality released the first two episodes of Kim Kardashian 's The System: The Case of Kevin Keith, a podcast focused on criminal justice reform, Monday on Spotify. Subsequent episodes will be released Mondays. The Cast of Kevin Keith is an eight-episode podcast narrated by Kardashian and veteran true crime producer Lori Rothschild Ansaldi. The series explores the story of Kevin Keith, a man convicted of a triple homicide who, for nearly three decades, has been working alongside his family to prove he was wrongly accused. "Over the course of eight episodes, Kardashian and Rothschild Ansaldi will work with investigators, experts, and more to discuss the complexities of Keith's case, expose cracks within the story and highlight ways in which our legal system is broken," an official description reads. Kardashian announced the podcast in an interview with Interview magazine earlier this month. "It's called The System," she said. "The first season is about a really crazy case where a guy got the death sentence for a triple homicide that happened in Ohio. There are so many twists and turns with how it was handled -- or mishandled -- and we take the listener along for a journey in search of the truth." Kardashian has previously shown an interest in criminal justice reform. In 2018, she successfully petitioned president Donald Trump for clemency in the case of Alice Marie Johnson, who served nearly 22 years in prison as part of her life sentence for a non violent drug offense. Kardashian and her family came to fame on the E! reality series Keeping Up with the Kardashians and now star on the Hulu series The Kardashians. Native American activist Sacha Littlefeather, who famously appeared on winner Marlon Brando's behalf at the 1973 Oscars, has died at the age of 75. ADVERTISEMENT Winterhawk and Trial of Billy Jack actress Littlefeather read part of an eight-page speech written by Brando about the mistreatment of Indigenous people by the American government and Hollywood filmmakers. Brando did not attend the ceremony and declined his Oscar for his performance in The Godfather out of solidarity with Native Americans. Littlefeather went on to earn a degree in holistic health from Antioch University with a minor in Native American medicine and worked in the wellness industry for decades while continuing her advocacy for Indigenous people. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences formally apologized to Littlefeather in June because few TV networks or filmmakers would hire her after the 1973 Oscars. "The abuse you endured because of this statement was unwarranted and unjustified," David Rubin, who was then president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, said in a letter dated June 18. "The emotional burden you have lived through and the cost to your own career in our industry are irreparable. For too long the courage you showed has been unacknowledged. For this, we offer both our deepest apologies and our sincere admiration." Littlefeather announced in March 2018 that she had been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. It had metastasized in recent years and she died Sunday at her California home, surrounded by her loved ones. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! The official Oscars Twitter feed announced her death Sunday. The post included a photo of Littlefeather with a quote attributed to her: "When I am gone, always be reminded that whenever you stand for your truth, you will be keeping my voice and the voices of our nations and our people alive. I remain Sacheen Littlefeather." Nestled near the Normaltown neighborhood of Athens near the end of Savannah Avenue, theres a small black house with a cozy porch and a hearse parked out front. The owner of the house is hard to miss, as he matches his home perfectly, dressed in all black with a full face of Goth makeup. Vision Video performed on his own porch on Sunday for the 2022 Historic Athens Porchfest. A quaint white cottage with a striking red door sits patiently on Prince Avenue, hidden among the multitude of corporations and shiny new buildings that surround it, waiting for a new customer to walk through the doors and experience the magic that is the Emmanuel Episcopal Thrift House. Associated with Emmanuel Episcopal Church next door, the mission behind the business is to provide the community with quality vintage pieces that directly serve the community. Whether you're yearning for a latte to warm up from the chilly fall weather or a sweet treat to satisfy your Halloween sweet tooth, The Red & Black has got you covered with 12 fall-themed restaurant specials to check out this season. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center held its 15th Annual Domino Toppling Extravaganza on Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022. Veteran domino toppler and YouTube superstar Lily Hevesh returned with her team to assemble over 25,000 dominos in two and half days that covered the museums Wolf Kahn & Emil Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 56F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A clear sky. Low 32F. Winds light and variable. The Bennington Police Department and other law enforcement agencies raid 546 Main St. in Bennington in July 2022. The state's attorney is suing the landlord for his tacit approval of drug activity on the property. The Hong Kong High Court handed down the prison sentence to Hui, who fled the city amid an ongoing crackdown on dissent under the national security law, on Sept. 29 after finding him guilty of contempt of court. Judge Andrew Chan said Hui had "carefully planned to deceive the police and the court with misleading behavior" when he left the city. Hui dismissed the sentence in a recent interview with RFA, saying the in absentia trial was entirely political. "My response to the Hong Kong court's accusation and judgement is to scoff," Hui said. "Courts in Hong Kong have now been reduced to the status of [ruling] Chinese Communist Party (CCP) courts." "This trial was a political trial, which was entirely predictable and unsurprising," he said. "The real culprits are the tyrannical regime, not those who protest against it." Hui may have evaded a political trial in Hong Kong, but he still has to contend with random abuse and violence from supporters of the CCP overseas. Hui was recently verbally abused and splashed with water by a supporter of the CCP while dining with friends at a restaurant in Sydney, Australia. Ted Hui [center] struggles with security personnel in the main chamber of the Legislative Council during the second day of debate on a bill to criminalize insulting or abusing the Chinese anthem in Hong Kong, May 28, 2020. Credit: AP Pro-CCP media Former Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmaker Ted Hui has vowed to keep on fighting for Hong Kong's freedoms despite being handed a three-and-a-half year jail term in absentia.The Hong Kong High Court handed down the prison sentence to Hui, who fled the city amid an ongoing crackdown on dissent under the national security law, on Sept. 29 after finding him guilty of contempt of court.Judge Andrew Chan said Hui had "carefully planned to deceive the police and the court with misleading behavior" when he left the city.Hui dismissed the sentence in a recent interview with RFA, saying the in absentia trial was entirely political."My response to the Hong Kong court's accusation and judgement is to scoff," Hui said. "Courts in Hong Kong have now been reduced to the status of [ruling] Chinese Communist Party (CCP) courts.""This trial was a political trial, which was entirely predictable and unsurprising," he said. "The real culprits are the tyrannical regime, not those who protest against it."Hui may have evaded a political trial in Hong Kong, but he still has to contend with random abuse and violence from supporters of the CCP overseas.Hui was recently verbally abused and splashed with water by a supporter of the CCP while dining with friends at a restaurant in Sydney, Australia. He said his attacker's views had likely been influenced by the ongoing smearing of the Hong Kong protest movement by a network of pro-CCP media organizations around the world, many of which are supervised or supported by Chinese diplomatic missions. "We can't rule out the possibility that some institutions, including Chinese consulates or pro-China groups, have been fanning the flames by publishing false information, smearing those who live overseas who are pro-democracy and freedom, and making pro-China people more impulsive," Hui said. "If the person involved is successfully prosecuted, it would be a good deterrent for pro-Beijing radicals, or those who hate democracy, and make them less likely to express their views with violence in future," he said. "I am glad that this happened in Australia," Hui said. "If it had happened in Hong Kong, I am sure that it would be me who was arrested and punished." "Australia is a free and democratic country, and its courts can be trusted," he said. "[Here], anyone throwing water at me or attacking me will face consequences." Australian lawyer and rights activist Kevin Yam said in absentia trials have been rare in Hong Kong until now, and would likely erode international trust in Hong Kong's once-independent judiciary. "This kind of judgment against dissidents will always give the free world the impression that the Hong Kong government ... is using a common law model to implement Chinese-style punishments for dissidents," Yam told RFA. Yam said he left Hong Kong to continue exercising his freedom of speech. Threatening dissidents overseas Current affairs commentator Sang Pu said Hong Kong has no extradition agreement with Australia, so Hui's life there is unlikely to be much affected by the sentence. But he warned that China has its own methods of pursuing dissidents overseas. "They wouldn't go through the Hong Kong judicial system, but via a network set up by the the Chinese consulate in Australia," Sang told RFA. "I think the Chinese consulate in Australia may be able to further suppress the pro-democracy community from Hong Kong, so that suppression is likely to continue. Authoritarian regimes are increasingly making use of regional cooperation organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to bolster each others' regime security in the name of counter-terrorism, and to pursue political dissidents overseas, experts told a recent Orion Policy Institute online seminar. Transnational activists rely heavily on social media to stay in touch with their home countries, and this makes them more vulnerable to being targeted by their home governments for monitoring, hacking and surveillance, according to experts. Regime agents will use false and distorted information, verbal threats and abuse against activists to intimidate them, to put them under pressure, or taint their reputation, or coerce them into going back home by means of threats to their loved ones, they told the seminar. Chinese agents have also been known to carry out kidnappings, forced renditions and coerced returns, often with the cooperation of law enforcement in allied countries. Beijing insists that repeated waves of mass popular protest movements in Hong Kong calling for fully democratic elections and other freedoms in recent years were instigated by "hostile foreign forces" seeking to undermine CCP rule by fomenting dissent in Hong Kong. It first imposed a draconian national security law on Hong Kong in the wake of the 2019 protest movement, ushering in an ongoing crackdown on peaceful dissent and political opposition that has seen more than 1,000 arrests under the law, with thousands more under colonial-era public order and sedition laws. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Marines from the Philippines, United States and South Korea, joined by a member of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, carry their national flags during the opening ceremony of the Kamandag 6 military exercise at the Philippine Marines headquarters in Taguig, suburban Manila, Oct. 3, 2022. Filipino and U.S. Marines kicked off large-scale joint drills Monday in and around Philippine islands facing the South China Sea and in Japan, with Japanese and South Korean military personnel participating as observers for the first time, officials said. The Kamandag 6 war games, which involve about 2,550 U.S. Marines and 630 Filipino counterparts from the marines and navy, run through Oct. 14. The joint force comprises the largest combined number of troops from the longtime defense allies participating in a military exercise since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in June. The exercise is not only a two-way collaboration between the U.S. and the Philippines but an effort to engage allies Japan and South Korea, whose participation is crucial in a volatile security environment, Philippine Navy chief Rear Adm. Caesar Bernard Valencia said during an opening ceremony on Monday. The drills are unfolding against the backdrop of tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. I hope that we will continue to stand together as allies and partners, armed with the commitment to uphold the values and the principles of freedom, democracy and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, Valencia told reporters. I look forward to these opportunities that we have in this training exercise as we continue to collaborate in addressing collective security concerns in the region and world-wide. Drills will be held in the western island province of Palawan that faces the South China Sea, and in Batanes, a province on Luzon island that lies across the Luzon Strait from Taiwan, according to a news release on the U.S. Marines website. At the same time, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members will host American Marines in similar training exercises on Hokkaido island. Kamandag will include a combined live-fire exercise in central Luzon featuring aircraft and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, as well as amphibious operations along the islands eastern and northern coasts, the news release said. Kamandag means Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea. Valencia said the joint exercises would deliver a platform where nations or participants or observers alike can express their commitment to regional peace and stability. The exercises are taking place amid Chinese military expansionism in the South China Sea, where Beijing is locked in territorial disputes with the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan. Beijing claims historical rights to much of the region, including waters reaching rivals shores. Exercises like the Kamandag allow us to work together multi-laterally, not only to enforce our commitments to our partner nations, but also to expand our regional relationships. Exercise Kamandag also prepares for a wide-range of challenges protruding (from) traditional security threats on the global scale and non-traditional security concerns such as disaster response operations through a series of field and combined interoperability exercises, Valencia said. During the 12-day exercise scores of personnel from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and Korean armed forces will serve as observers and are expected to participate in disaster response drills. Rear Adm. Derek Trinque, the exercise director on the U.S. side, said the joint drills will help us carry on this important work together, to ensure our nations defense and preserve peace in the region. Trinque said the drills would help both forces to be more prepared to address real-world challenges. He said U.S. armed forces enjoy partnerships with like-minded nations across the Indo-Pacific region. While its always a privilege for us to work bilaterally with the Philippines, with Japan, with the Republic of Korea, when we can bring our allies and partners together, if we can be part of that then we are pleased to do so, he said. As the admiral (Valencia) stated, this is bilateral and the forces of Japan and Korea are observing this year. We are here on the invitation of the Philippines and so if in the future we have opportunities to work multilaterally, then we welcome that from the United States, but we would never try to tell the Armed Forces of the Philippines how they run their exercise, Trinque said. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service. Hong Kongers, Tibetans and Uyghurs burned PRC flags at demonstrations in several U.S. and U.K. cities Supporters in London rally on Oct. 1 - the 73rd anniversary of Chinas National Day - to protest the CCPs suppression of human rights among Tibetans, Uyghurs and Hong Kongers. As world leaders congratulated China on its Oct. 1 National Day, protesters gathered in cities around the world to protest against the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP)'s ongoing persecution of ethnic minorities and dissidents. As the leaders of North Korea and Vietnam sent effusive letters of congratulation to Beijing to mark the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, protesters in London burned the Chinese flag, and threw maggots and dung on it outside the Chinese embassy, in protest at Beijing's human rights record. Hong Kongers, Tibetans and Uyghurs organized around 15 protests in U.K. cities to mark the 73rd National Day and "say no to the CCP," as Russian president Vladimir Putin, Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel and Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni added their congratulations, according to state news agency Xinhua. Chanting "China lied! People died! Shame on the CCP!", the demonstrators marched from Piccadilly Circus to the Chinese embassy, carrying placards opposing totalitarian rule by the CCP. The flames were put out after police arrived at the scene, after which protesters shone laser pointers at the embassy windows. No reaction was observed from the embassy, although some curtains were closed. A protester surnamed Wong, who emigrated to the U.K. two months ago, said she had taken part in the protest with three generations of her family president. "What this day teaches us is that we lost our freedoms because of the party," Wong told RFA. "I don't think this is a day to celebrate, but a day when an axis of evil was established." "The CCP hasn't just harmed Hong Kong, but the whole country," she said. "It is also exploiting freedoms around the world ... for example abstaining from the U.N. vote on Russia." "To me, this is a horrible, evil regime." Protesters who gathered on the campus of the University of California-Berkeley on Oct. 1, 2022 chanted "Free Tibet!", "Free Hong Kong!" and "Free the Uyghurs!" Credit: RFA Lost freedoms Wong said she once used to take her children on marches in Hong Kong, but since a crackdown on public dissent under the national security law, she has only been able to exercise that right in the U.K. A protester surnamed Tse said he was carrying the colonial-era Hong Kong flag at the protest, to express nostalgia for the city's lost freedoms. "We want a Hong Kong with freedom, democracy and the rule of law like we had in the past," Tse told RFA. "Hong Kong people should have the final say in [how to run] the place, not the country next door." "They have trampled on the promises made to the people of Hong Kong, the commitments made in the [1984] Sino-British Joint Declaration and on its promise to the world," he said. "Did they once ask the people of Hong Kong [what they thought?]" A protester surnamed Leung said there is no longer any separation of powers in Hong Kong, since Beijing imposed the national security law on the city from July 1, 2020. "Hong Kong used to have separation of powers, but now that has been denied us," Leung said. "Everyone wants to get Hong Kong back to the one country, two systems status that it had before." Uyghur dissident Rahima Mahmut told the rally that, since the PRC was founded 73 years ago, Tibet and Xinjiang have been occupied, the Cultural Revolution brought political turmoil to China, and the CCP had bloodily suppressed dissent in the 1989 Tiananmen massacre. Hong Kong's freedoms and democracy have been destroyed, and Uyghurs have suffered genocide, including the mass incarceration of Uyghurs in their homes for more than a month without food as part of CCP leader Xi Jinping's zero-COVID policy, she told the crowd. But she said Uyghurs refused to remain silent, despite facing constant threats from agents of the Chinese state while in exile overseas. Protesters at the Chinese Embassy in London throw maggots and debris onto a Chinese flag and then set it on fire, Oct. 1, 2022. Credit: RFA Berkeley protest In the United States, protesters gathered on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley on Oct. 1, waving the Tibetan flag, the colonial-era flag of Hong Kong and placing a tombstone effigy inscribed with the an estimated death toll under CCP rule since Mao Zedong proclaimed the People's Republic of China from Tiananmen podium on Oct. 1, 1949. The protest, which included the flags of the anti-communist South Vietnam, the Philippines and the Myanmar Democratic Movement, was timed to coincide with a visit to the school by Zhang Jianmin, the Chinese consul in San Francisco, to take part in the Berkeley China Summit symposium. Chanting "Free Tibet!", "Free Hong Kong!" and "Free the Uyghurs!", the protesters also hung a placard which read "I know what you did in the Czech Republic" on a tree outside the building. Chen Guodong, a member of the Asian-American political group Far East Youth Freedom League, said protesters had also brought along a portrait of late Czech official Jaroslav Kubera, who died of a heart attack in office shortly after receiving a threatening message from the Chinese embassy in the Czech Republic, according to his relatives. "Mr Kubera passed away [in 2020], when he was about to visit Taiwan," Chen said. "He was threatened by Zhang Jianmin and died shortly after [so we believe] Zhang Jianmin has blood on his hands." Kubera's widow has said her husband was threatened by Zhang as he attended a banquet at the Chinese embassy three days before his death, and that letters from Zhang containing similar threats were also found among her husband's personal effects after his death. A member of the student group Hong Kong Affairs Association of Berkeley, who gave only the nickname Will, told the rally that anyone attending the Berkeley China Summit was "supporting a tyrannical regime with their silence." Members of the East Turkistan Awakening Movement sing the East Turkistan national anthem during a rally Oct. 1, 2022, outside the White House against the Chinese Communist Party. Credit: AP Occupied Tibet Tenzin Dorji, a member of the Northern California Tibetan Association, said he took part to protest the illegal occupation of Tibet by the CCP. "The CCP has illegally occupied Tibet, and Tibetans are suffering a genocide under its brutal rule," he said. A protester from the southern Chinese province of Guangdong, who gave only the surname Ng, told the rally he was there to speak out for the Cantonese nativist movement, which is trying to resist the erasure of Cantonese language and culture under the CCP. Protest motorcades also turned out in San Gabriel, Los Angeles, and Park City, Montreal, with signs that read "Destroy the CCP!" The LA protest took a detour to take in the Chinese consulate in the city, where a group of protesters that included Tibetans and Uyghurs burned the Chinese flag. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken offered his congratulations to "the people of China" on National Day, Xinhua reported. "As the United States works with the international community to tackle the great obstacles the world faces today, we welcome the cooperation of the Peoples Republic of China in addressing global challenges in health, climate change, counternarcotics, and other areas where our interests intersect," Blinken said. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Residents say the measure is meant to prevent further transmission of the COVID-19 virus. North Korean authorities have banned the movement of residents between cities and counties again to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, though the country declared victory over the COVID-19 pandemic nearly two months ago, sources inside the country said. The National Emergency Quarantine Command has blocked the movement of residents between cities and counties on the grounds of intensive anti-epidemic measures, an official from North Hamgyong province told RFA on Sept. 27. This is because the Central Committee has issued an order to heighten the quarantine atmosphere across the country to prevent seasonal flu. The quarantine command in North Hamgyong has prohibited the movement of people among cities, counties and districts in the province since Sept. 20, citing an order from the countrys National Emergency Quarantine Command, said the source who did not want to be named so he could speak freely. Though the latest restrictions were put in place to prevent the spread of seasonal flu, residents believe the measure is meant to stave off further spread of the coronavirus because authorities have never restricted the movement of residents to prevent the flu, he said. The authorities couldnt just declare a ban on movement due to the coronavirus, because they have been touting that [North Korean leader] Kim Jong Uns excellent leadership was the reason for the win against the coronavirus, said the official. It seems that they are using seasonal flu prevention as an excuse, he said, adding that the measure means that province authorities are not issuing travel certificates to residents who need to go to other cities or counties for family celebrations or for funerals. An acquaintance of mine received a call that his mother, who lives in another city, had been ill for a long time and was in critical condition, the source said. My acquaintance urgently applied for a travel certificate, but it was not issued. Due to the sudden action of the authorities, he couldnt be there for his mothers last moment [before she died]. He was outraged at the fluctuating behavior of the authorities. North Korea claimed to be virus free throughout 2020 and 2021, but finally acknowledged publicly that a major outbreak occurred as the result of a massive military parade in April 2022, and declared the national maximum emergency the following month. Officials in the diplomatically isolated country confirmed the first COVID-19 case on May 8 as a country-wide lockdown was ordered to prevent spread of what officials referred to as a fever. In early August, Kim Jong Un declared victory over the virus during a speech at a nationally televised COVID review meeting and ordered restrictions at bathhouses and restaurants nationwide be lifted, ending the maximum emergency order that had been in place since May. Government officials have never disclosed the total number of confirmed infections. But even when the coronavirus situation was severe, authorities still issued quarantine and travel certificates for citizens who had to travel for special circumstances, such as the death of ones parents, the source said. It wasnt easy, but people were able to get quarantine certificates and travel certificates, he said. However, the authorities, who declared the end of the coronavirus situation, have abruptly stopped issuing travel certificates. It is causing a huge disruption to the livelihoods of the residents who greatly resent it. 'It won't get better' A source from neighboring Ryanggang province told RFA that residents have been banned from moving between provinces, cities, and counties across the country since Sept. 20 when the National Emergency Quarantine Commands order went into effect. After the COVID review meeting was held in August, authorities lifted emergency quarantine measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, and residents were able to cross boundaries after they obtained travel certificates, he said. However, since the 20th, no one can go outside the city or county where they live, said the source who declined to be named so as to speak freely. Each neighborhood watch unit in Hyesan, the provincial capital, conveyed the order at residential meetings, saying the reason for the new ban on movement was to prevent respiratory diseases such as seasonal colds and bronchitis, he said. When the ban on the movement of residents was issued, the atmosphere of the marketplace was completely frozen, said the source. The authorities did not say that it was because the coronavirus is on the rise again, but the people are worried about making a living in the future, saying that the respiratory disease [they have referred to] means COVID-19, he source said. Authorities have predicted that the current ban will be lifted in November, though some North Koreans are skeptical. When the weather gets colder, it will get worse, whether its COVID-19 or the common cold, the source said. It wont get better. Translated by Leejin J. Chung for RFA Korean. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. A file photo of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, a casino entertainment district in northwestern Laos' Bokeo province that caters mainly to Chinese tourists. Around 700 Malaysian migrant workers are being detained in a China-owned casino and hotel resort in northern Laos, where they face abuse by resort managers demanding a large ransom for their release, according to Lao sources. Lured by promises of employment to the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo province, most are being put to work as online scammers, with compliance enforced by beatings and torture, sources say. I see a lot of Malaysian workers in the SEZ, one Lao worker in the Golden Triangle zone told RFA on Sept. 29, speaking on condition of anonymity to protect his safety. Actually, I see people here from many different countries, including Vietnam, Myanmar and Malaysia. They work at many different jobs, but most of them here at the Golden Triangle work online as scammers, RFAs source said. Speaking to RFA, a Lao worker who escaped the Golden Triangle after working there as an online scammer, said it is difficult for foreign workers at the SEZ to leave the zone or find protection from abuse. Their Chinese employers confiscate their passports and cell phones, and most of the workers are confined to their buildings, the source said, also declining to be named. Foreign workers like the Malaysians also have trouble complaining to the Lao authorities because of the language barrier, he said. When foreign workers are abused by a Chinese employer, they dont know whether they should report the abuse to the governments SEZ Task Force or to their own embassies, he added. Foreign workers trapped in the Golden Triangle SEZ endure harrowing conditions including beatings and torture, with some workers reportedly shot for refusing to obey orders, Malaysias New Straits Times said in a Sept. 25 report. Some workers were believed to be sold from one agent to another, from one company to another, or worse, traded between different countries, the New Straits Times said. The fraud syndicate also demanded ransom money from the victims families that ranged from RM50,000 [U.S. $10,782] to RM100,000 [U.S. $21,565] to release the victims, according to the report. Protest in Kuala Lumpur On Sept. 26, members of Malaysian rights groups and parents of trapped workers protested in front of the Lao embassy in Kuala Lumpur, calling on Lao authorities to help secure the workers release. Speaking at the protest, Datuk Hishamuddin Hashim secretary general of the Malaysia International Humanitarian Organization said in a video released after the event that many Malaysian workers trapped in Laos had asked for help from Lao police but received no response. At least four Malaysians have now escaped Laos, with six others receiving help from the Malaysian embassy in the capital Vientiane, but most them continue to be exploited, trafficked or even killed, he said. Speaking to RFA on Sept. 29, a Lao official said he had recently seen Malaysias embassy in Laos contact the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Interpol, asking for their help in freeing the trapped Malaysian workers. The Lao Foreign Ministry often responded to those requests, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity in order to freely discuss the matter. I dont know how the Malaysians ended up working in Laos, but I know that most of them are working in the Golden Triangle SEZ in Bokeo province. Reached by email and phone for comment, an official at the Malaysian embassy in Laos said, Right now were doing some research on the issue before we can answer your questions. The Golden Triangle SEZ is a gambling and tourism hub catering to Chinese citizens situated along the Mekong River where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet. In 2018, the U.S. government sanctioned the Chinese tycoon who is said to run the SEZ as head of a trafficking network. Translated by Max Avary for RFA Lao. Written in English by Richard Finney. The legal team said they were shut out when police took samples at the Peng Lei Buddhist Church. A group of lawyers providing legal support for the members of Vietnams Peng Lei Buddhist Church who are facing fraud accusations say they dont object to police taking hair and mouth swabs but they must follow the law. Dang Dinh Manh, head of the group of five lawyers made the comments after police in Long An province broke into the home of church member Cao Thi Cuc, which serves as the Peng Lei Buddhist Church, forcibly taking DNA from everyone living here, including young children. The samples were taken to identify whether the children were genuinely related to adults there. We have no policy or position against the collection of DNA samples by security agencies, especially when this is one of the many methods regulated by the state. [In fact] we are for it, not against it, Manh said, adding: We require them to conduct DNA sampling on our clients on the basis of the law." The Investigation Security Agency of the Long An Provincial Police decided to resume its investigation into claims that church members conducted "Scams to appropriate property," Zing News network reported last Thursday Unidentified victims accused Le Tung Van, 90, and other individuals living in Cao Thi Cuc's house of pretending to be monks and orphans to fraudulently appropriate donors property. To prove their case local police decided to take samples for DNA testing from 27 people living in Cuc's household on Sept. 24. Their actions were not legal because those being sampled had not given consent, Manh said, adding that a person's moral rights are inviolable. The police are not allowed to take DNA samples from all people living in the facility, he said, only those involved in the investigation. Even though many people living there were not involved in the fraud claims, Manh said three to four officers grabbed their throats to take DNA swabs. He also said 10 children were sampled without being allowed to ask for their guardians to be present. That makes it illegal to take samples and the results of the examination cannot be legal evidence in a criminal case. he said. State press also reported that the five lawyers who had not been present at the DNA sampling went to Cucs house to film and record [to check if residents used] words that distorted, insulted or slandered the authorities Manh said the team went there on Sept. 24, when he was informed that about 50 policemen and civil servants had visited the house. When they arrived the door was barred. They were only able to get inside when authorities had finished collecting samples. Manh said it is legal for lawyers to get into a clients home to film and take pictures. Regarding the press, perhaps they received information from one side and they reported the information from the point of view of the informant, we do not blame them very much, Manh said. Unfortunately, they did not talk with the lawyers so that they could have an objective view of the matter. Bosnia-Herzegovina's general elections delivered a glimmer of hope to moderates amid challenges to incumbents steeped in the Balkan country's calcified ethnic rivalries. But desires for an improbable local solution to end years of political paralysis at the state, regional, and local levels were pushed aside minutes after polls closed by the UN overseer's intervention to avoid gridlock in key institutions after the vote. The election-night decision by High Representative Christian Schmidt to invoke his UN-backed "Bonn powers" followed months of public handwringing to address a crippling dispute among Bosniaks and Croats in one of Bosnia's two main entities and months of accelerated secession efforts by Serbs in the other. "Functioning structures are the basis of a democratic state," Schmidt said in his YouTube video announcement of the reforms. Bosnia comprises a majority-Bosniak and minority-Croat entity known as the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, whose budget is about four times that of the national government, as well as the Serb-dominated Republika Srpska and a tiny self-governing district that acts much like a municipality, Brcko. The federation is further divided into 10 cantons. "These decisions aim at preventing the paralysis of the [Bosniak and Croat] federation after the elections," Schmidt said. "So this is why I'm doing it and deciding it today." The reconfiguration-by-decree came just as the tallies began in dramatic races for seats in Bosnia's ethnically apportioned tripartite presidency as well as for the presidency of Republika Srpska, and with the seats of regional legislatures also up for grabs. It also threatened to overshadow the voting itself, by around half of the former Yugoslav republic's nearly 3.4 million registered voters. What Schmidt Did The intervention after the balloting by the UN's overseer is likely to dominate the postelection landscape and its effect on Bosnia's national and political fortunes. Less than an hour after polls closed, Schmidt said his "functionality package" would shape indirect elections to the Bosniak and Croat federation's legislature while dramatically restricting officials' ability to block legislative appointments and other processes. His changes include an increase in the size of the federation's House of Peoples to "correct overrepresentation" of some ethnic groups and the inclusion of "others" to be represented there -- code in Bosnia for minorities outside the main Bosniak, Serb, and Croat peoples. He also set deadlines and "consequences for ignoring these deadlines," including a one-month limit for agreement on sweeping electoral and constitutional reforms that have proven enormously contentious domestically and flummoxed state-building efforts for decades. The moves appeared to be aimed squarely at clearing away obstacles to basic government while redressing the most persistent criticism of the largest ethnic Croat political party in the country, whose candidate for the tripartite Bosnian Presidency lost out to a moderate with the backing of the Federation's Bosniaks in a repeat of three of the past four elections. Schmidt argued that his moves safeguarded voters' choices rather than subverted them, and he preemptively dismissed "in the coming days claims about who wins and who loses with these decisions." "A lot of this will be nonsense," he said bluntly. "The clear winners are the people of this country and their peaceful future." Gains By Moderates? Voting for two of the three ethnically apportioned seats of the Bosnia-Herzegovina Presidency hinted at a moderate pushback against boisterous ethno-nationalism. But even those contests were loaded with contradictions. In one of the most lopsided races, Denis Becirovic won easily over incumbent nationalist Bakir Izetbegovic to win the Bosniak seat on the Bosnian Presidency. The 11-party opposition alliance behind Becirovic was arguably the widest that Bosnia has seen in its postwar history. It was key to overcoming Izetbegovic's pedigree as the son of a wartime Bosniak leader and leadership of the nationalist Party of Democratic Action (SDA). But it is unclear how long such unity can last. "What Becirovic has brought together behind him has some contradictions," Kurt Bassuener, senior associate at the Democratization Policy Council, told RFE/RL. He cited the potentially troublesome cohabitation of Becirovic's civic-minded Social Democratic Party with People And Justice, a nationalist-leaning counterpart to Izetbegovic's SDA. That might hint at a possible shift toward a civic option rather than the rut of strictly ethnic allegiances, Bassuener cautioned, but "whether he is actually advocating that and advocating fundamental change" is another question. He called it "at least an implicit rejection of tribalism" but also one that is more easily swallowed by a party whose power base rests among the federation's majority Bosniaks. In the race for the Presidency's Croat seat that marked a gain for moderates in the eyes of some but an ongoing threat to the balance of power among Bosnia's three constituent peoples among more nationalist Croats, incumbent Zeljko Komsic defeated a challenge from the Croatian Democratic Union of Bosnia-Herzegovina (HDZBiH) candidate Borjana Kristo. Komsic's previous victories on the strength of Bosniak votes have fed grievances including by HDZBiH leader Dragan Covic that Croats are underrepresented on a state level. Croats have threatened to continue blocking the formation of a federation government if Komsic won another term on the Presidency. Meanwhile, an early challenge for leadership of the Republika Srpska provided drama as Milorad Dodik slipped behind an opposition challenger. The pro-Moscow Dodik, accused of corruption and targeted by Western sanctions over his moves toward Republika Srpska's secession, has wielded mostly unrivaled power among Bosnian Serbs for decades and actively undermined Bosnian statehood. But later tallies on October 3 appeared to show the Serbs' loudest voice for breaking up Bosnia would remain in power. Moreover, a close Dodik ally and fervent Serb nationalist, Zeljka Cvijanovic, looked set to win the Serb seat on the Bosnian Presidency vacated by Dodik. She is "Dodik's creature," in the words of one Balkan analyst. "I think that when you have somebody who's so entrenched, like Dodik, or somebody's party, which has been effectively perennial like Izetbegovic, on the back foot...it shows popular dissatisfaction," Bassuener said. "The problem then becomes: What do the people who've been elected as a result do with that...public hope that has been vested in them?" For Now At Least, 'Intervention' Wins Schmidt's use of his wide-ranging powers to force a potentially unpopular path forward once all the ballots were cast carries risks. Even rumors of his intention to impose constitutional and electoral reforms last summer sparked street demonstrations. In part to appease some of Bosnia's most entrenched leaders, Schmidt provided local politicians with an off-ramp that he suggested would put the country on footing "for a better status of Bosnia-Herzegovina as a candidate for European integration." But it's unclear whether Bosnia's newly elected -- or reelected -- leaders will choose to accept it. "The timing couldn't have been worse," said Bassuener, who has expressed wariness of imposed solutions to overcoming the sticky and corrupt power allocation among Bosnia's constituent peoples in the absence of "a popular constituency" for a functioning state. There has been little evidence among Bosnia's political leaders of clearly articulated goals for their country, according to Bassuener. "What you don't really have represented on the electoral landscape as it was represented on ballots last night was a clear, articulated vision of what people want that's fundamentally different from what they've got," he said. A Risky Gamble That Could Still Backfire In addition to local challenges, Schmidt's moves could also highlight differences among the Office of the High Representative to Bosnia-Herzegovina's fractious collection of UN sponsors. Russia and China are already pressing to phase out the office, driven in part by Kremlin support for Serb and Orthodox unity in the Balkans even before Moscow's fateful invasion of Ukraine. But even Bosnia's closest Western partners responded in a cacophony. The United States expressed its support for Schmidt's move as an "urgent and necessary intervention" as evidenced by ongoing "paralysis" and the failure to implement results from the last general elections in 2018. It cited problems that "have plagued the Federation" of Bosniaks and Croats "for many years" and Schmidt's efforts this summer are a "good-faith compromise." It said obstructionism has "deprived Federation residents of their constitutional rights, undermined the rule of law, and emboldened ethno-nationalists across [Bosnia]. Together, these problems threaten [Bosnia's] sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character." "The restoration of functionality to the Federation is the first step toward restoring the internal balance [Bosnia-Herzegovina] requires to address governance issues, deliver prosperity, respond to wider geopolitical challenges, and secure its place in the Euro-Atlantic community of nations." The European Union, meanwhile, sent a markedly different signal. The EU's mission in Bosnia quickly distanced itself from Schmidt's move, even as it lamented local politicians' inability to resolve "functionality" problems and constitutional reform. "This was a decision of the High Representative alone," the delegation said the morning after the vote. "The executive powers of the High Representative (Bonn Powers) should be used solely as a measure of last resort against irreparable unlawful acts." It added an expression of hope, saying the EU "expects newly elected officials to take full responsibility for ambitious reforms that advance the interests of citizens as well as the country's further progress on the European path" in line with the European Commission's stated priorities toward Bosnia's official EU candidacy. Fresh Russian air strikes have targeted Kyiv with Iranian-made drones, killing at least four people in the Ukrainian capital, while other regions in southern and eastern Ukraine were also hit, local officials said. Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, Russian protests, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said a pregnant woman and her husband were among the dead in Kyiv. Their bodies were pulled from the remains of a destroyed apartment building and there might still be people under the rubble, he added. The attacks are part of Russia's efforts to destroy critical infrastructure and sow panic, but they are having a completely different effect than what the Russians expected, Klitschko told RFE/RL. Klitschko said he was currently asking international partners to provide Kyiv with modern air-defense systems to protect the city from further strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said more than 25 settlements were attacked late on October 16 and in the early hours of October 17. Speaking in his nightly address, he said the armed forces managed to shoot down many missiles and drones. "But in order to guarantee the protection of our skies and to reduce the capabilities of Russian terrorists to zero, we need significantly more modern air defense systems and more missile support for such systems," he said. He said Russia has "no chance on the battlefield" and therefore is trying to "cover up its military defeats with terror." The Russian shelling on October 17 -- both the drone strikes and other air strikes with missiles -- led to new power outages, which he said were being fixed. But he also asked Ukrainians to conserve electricity during peak hours. U.S. President Joe Biden's spokeswoman, Karine Jean-Pierre, told reporters that the White House "strongly condemns Russia's missile strikes" and said the attack "continues to demonstrate [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's brutality." She said the United States "will continue to impose costs on Russia, hold them accountable for its war crimes." The Ukrainian Air Force said it destroyed 37 of the 43 drones launched by the Russian military. Russia has been using so-called suicide drones with increasing frequency in recent weeks to target urban centers and infrastructure, including power stations. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on October 17 that more than 100 such drones had struck Ukraine in the past week, hitting power stations, sewage treatment plants, bridges, and playgrounds. "A third of Ukraine's energy infrastructure was affected," a ministry statement said. "We call on Tehran to immediately stop supplying Russia with any weapons. Otherwise, Iran and its leadership will bear the strictest responsibility, including within the framework of international legal proceedings addressing Russia's crimes against Ukraine." Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba appealed earlier on October 17 to the foreign ministers of the European Union to impose sanctions on Iran over drone supplies to Russia. Several of the ministers called for sanctions against Iran over the transfer of drones to Russia. A U.S. State Department spokesman said the United States agreed that the use of drones supplied to Russia by Iran would violate UN Security Council Resolution 2231. "Earlier today our French and British allies publicly offered the assessment that Iran's supply of these UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) [to] Russia is a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2231," U.S. State Department spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters. "This is something that we agree with." Resolution 2231 endorsed the 2015 nuclear deal that limited Tehran's uranium-enrichment activity while lifting international sanctions. Under the resolution, a conventional arms embargo on Iran was in place until October 2020. The Security Council at the time rejected efforts by the United States to extend the arms embargo, paving the way for Iran to resume arms exports. But diplomats say the resolution still includes restrictions on missiles and related technologies, including advanced military systems such as drones. In the eastern region of Sumy, regional Governor Dmytro Zhyvytskiy said three people had been killed and several more wounded in the Russian attacks. In the south, a big fire broke out at an energy facility in the Dnipropetrovsk region after it was struck by a missile overnight, a local official said early on October 17. The city council in the southern port of Odesa said Russian warplanes fired missiles on infrastructure facilities in the region early on October 17. Russia's Defense Ministry said on October 17 that it had carried out a "massive" attack on military targets and energy infrastructure across Ukraine using "high-precision" weapons. The ministry said in its daily briefing that it had hit "all designated targets" in Ukraine and also thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to breach its defenses in the southern Kherson region. On October 10, Russia launched strikes on Kyiv and other cities across Ukraine in the biggest wave of attacks in months. The attacks killed at least 19 people, wounded 105 others and sparked an international outcry. Russia denies it has been targeting civilians. Meanwhile, Britain's Ministry of Defense said in its daily intelligence bulletin on October 17 that Russia was facing more acute logistical problems in the south after the damage to the road-and-rail bridge linking mainland Russia to Crimea caused by a blast on October 8. In Luxembourg, EU foreign ministers stepped up the bloc's military support for Ukraine on October 17 by launching a mission to train 15,000 Ukrainian soldiers and providing an additional 500 million euros ($487 million) for weapons. Kuleba addressed a meeting of his EU counterparts from a shelter in Kyiv and urged them to provide more air defenses and to sanction Iran over drone supplies to Russia. "While Dmytro Kuleba addresses (us) from a bomb shelter, we raise EU military assistance to 3.1 billion euros ($3 billion) and launch the EU military training mission for Ukraine," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell tweeted from the meeting in Luxembourg. "Russia's latest indiscriminate attacks will not shake our determination to support Ukraine, it will only reinforce it." With reporting by Reuters, AP, dpa, and AFP Prague will be at the center of European politics this week as most of the continent's leaders gather for two meetings on October 6-7 to discuss the war in Ukraine and its implications on various policy fields. RFE/RL takes a closer look at what to expect. What's happening? The leaders from all European countries, apart from Belarus and Russia (as well as European microstates), will meet at Prague Castle on October 6 to discuss a raft of issues related to the security situation on the continent, with the war in Ukraine being an obvious backdrop. The meeting is the launch of the European Political Community (EPC) -- an idea first promoted by French President Emmanuel Macron in May. The next day, October 7, will see the Czech capital host an informal EU summit at the same venue. Leaders from the 27 member states will talk Russia sanctions, the energy crisis, and what will likely be a tough winter ahead. Who will be there? Invites have apparently been sent to leaders of 44 European countries and, according to an EU diplomat not authorized to speak on the record, there has been "positive feedback from all of them, but some have not given a definitive answer." It is understood that Serbian President Alexander Vucic is hesitating, as is his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will address meeting participants via video link due to the security situation in his country and will instead dispatch the prime minister, Denys Shmyhal, to the Czech Republic. It is notable that the "sherpas" -- a wonks' term for the main political advisers to the leaders of all 44 countries -- already met in Brussels on September 29. So the prospect of all the leaders showing up is decent, especially given that foreign ministers are not allowed to act as a replacement. The deadline for an RSVP is also generous, up to when the meeting starts at 1 p.m. on October 6. What exactly is the EPC? Perhaps it's best to start with what it isn't. It does not replace any existing political organization, structure, or process and doesn't aim to create a new one -- at this stage, at least. EU diplomats are at pains to point out the EU is just a facilitator, it isn't an EU-driven process, and EU candidates and potential candidate countries in the Western Balkans and the eastern neighborhood need not fear it will replace the EU enlargement process. There will be no final declaration, nor any other written statement at the end. From speaking to EU sources who were in the know but not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, the organizers want to avoid the haggling over wording that usually comes with finalizing a text at such a meeting. A final statement might also be fairly light on content anyway, due to the heterogenous guest list. There might not even be a final press conference after the meeting. So, what exactly is it then? Essentially it's meant to be a new platform for European leaders to meet once or twice a year to discuss the pressing issues of the day. Many are doubtful this is even needed considering there are already structures for just this purpose such as the Organization For Security And Cooperation In Europe and the Council Of Europe. However, as one diplomat, speaking on the condition of anonymity, put it: "Many things have started off with just a gathering. It's the beginning of a process and then we have to see what follows." Will there be any concrete outcomes? There will be a family photo, if that counts. Otherwise, the outcome is expected to be the meeting itself, which usually means a medium-sized nothingburger. But at a time when Russia has announced at least partial mobilization and is in the process of seizing parts of Ukraine after referendums rejected as a sham by Ukraine, the United States, and the United Nations, the very fact that nearly all other European leaders are getting together to meet in the same place is at least symbolic. The day will start with a one-hour plenary session before the leaders are broken up into groups of 10-12 to discuss issues related to peace, security, and stability, as well as energy, climate, and the environment. There might also be an ad hoc discussion on migration and mobility for those interested before a sizeable chunk of the afternoon is dedicated to various bilateral meetings. This might indeed be the most interesting part of the day with potential discussions between various Western Balkans leaders. There could also be talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia, likely to focus on the recent border clashes and the breakaway territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, with the possible participation of the French and Turkish presidents. Another plenary will then take place over dinner before the meeting comes to an end. An EU diplomat with insight into the planning says that "the whole idea is that it shouldn't be too formal and strict and that everyone speaks with each other." The outcome, notes another EU diplomat speaking anonymously, is to bring "all European leaders on equal footing in the spirit of unity to foster political dialogue on issues and common interests" and that they should come with ideas and proposals for the next EPC meeting that should take place next year, preferably in a non-EU country. What about the informal EU summit the next day? Expect some tough discussions on the EU response to the war in Ukraine. It's possible the latest EU sanctions package will be agreed before this meeting. While Brussels is likely to target areas such as Russian steel, wood, cigarettes, and cryptocurrencies, one of the issues proposed that probably won't fly is an EU oil price cap. Hungary has already signaled it will veto any new energy sanctions on Moscow and some energy-shipping nations are also not too keen. But expect heated discussions on this and on a potential price cap on gas with member states divided on whether to target only Russia, have a global price cap, or nothing at all. There is also likely to be discussion and division over whether to welcome Russian draft dodgers or not, and if the next batch of financial aid to Kyiv worth 3 billion euros ($2.9 billion) should be in grants or loans. Citing the death of a young woman while in police custody, Canada has slapped a new round of sanctions on several high-ranking Iranian security officials for alleged human rights abuses. Melanie Joly, the minister of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement on October 3 that the sanctions "in response to gross human rights violations that have been committed in Iran, including its systematic persecution of women and in particular, the egregious actions committed by Irans so-called Morality Police, which led to the death of Mahsa Amini while under their custody." "Irans continued grave and ongoing breaches of international law are well known and documented, including its blatant disregard for human life," she added. The list of those added to the sanctions regime includes 25 individuals and nine entities, including officials in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and the country's ministry of intelligence and security. Among those named are Mohammed-Hossein Bagheri, a major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and the chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces; Major General Hossein Salami, commander-in-chief of the IRGC; Esmail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force of the IRGC; the Evin Prison, which houses political prisoners; and Irans morality police and its head, Mohammad Rostami Cheshmeh Gachi. Iran's state-run Press TV and its "morality police," which enforces the Islamic Republic's strict dress code, were also sanctioned by Canada. Amini, 22, was taken into custody by the morality police before she died. She was detained for allegedly wearing a head scarf, or hijab, improperly. Officials have said Amini died of a heart attack on September 16, but her relatives and supporters reject the claim, saying there are eyewitness accounts reporting she was beaten by police. Amini's death has sparked widespread anger and daily protests in Iran, which the country's leadership has vowed to put down harshly. "Our message to Iran is clear: the continued and systemic persecution of Iranian women must stop and they will be held accountable for human rights violations and blatant disregard for human life," Joly said in the statement. "Canada applauds the courage and actions of Iranians and will stand by them as they fight for their rights and dignity. For weeks now, on the uncensored Telegram channels of hard-line nationalists and Russian military bloggers, there's been a litany of angry criticism of Russia's military commanders amid a stunning Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region and elsewhere resulting in substantial Russian losses. Now with the Ukrainians' weekend victory in Lyman, a Donetsk region city and strategic rail hub southeast of Kharkiv, that criticism is bursting into wider public view, hitting the front pages of some of Russia's biggest newspapers. That's a serious problem for Russia's military brass -- and potentially for the Kremlin. "I wouldn't predict a palace coup imminently. If there were one, we'd almost be the last ones to know about it, these things happen pretty swiftly when they do," said James Nixey, who heads the Russia and Eurasia program at the Chatham House think tank in London. "But obviously, there is increasing discontent in the upper Russian echelons about the course of the war, and that is being manifested in various ways, people cant hold it in." "The problem is Putin's grip in all sorts of ways is too strong for people to mobilize and consolidate and form an alliance, to move against him," he told RFE/RL. "I personally think...the Russian elite has never been as at risk of collapse quite frankly than it is now." Over the 23 years Putin has been in power, Russia's once freewheeling media has been squeezed into submission. After the February 24 invasion, he signed legislation that in many cases criminalizes independent reporting on the war, as well as criticism and dissent, by outlawing "discrediting the armed forces." That dovetailed with the closure of some of the country's best-known independent outlets, like the Ekho Moskvy radio station and the newspaper Novaya gazeta. Even Internet resources and social-media companies like Facebook, Twitter, and VK have been censored or brought to heel. The messaging app Telegram, however, has remained uncensored by Russian regulators. The result has been a flood of information, criticism, and discussion, including about how badly the war is going for Russian forces. And pro-Russian military bloggers have taken full advantage. 'Send All These Bastards...Barefoot To The Front' Inside Russia, discussions of the military's early setbacks in Ukraine have been muted. Even after Russian forces failed to capture Kyiv in the early weeks of the invasion, thwarted by Ukrainian defenses, Russian commanders and bloggers characterized the withdrawal and shifting of forces to the Donbas -- the Donetsk and Luhansk regions -- as merely a tactical decision. The Kremlin shuffled several top officers, reorganized the command structure, and even dismissed several commanders. Prior to Putins September 21 announcement of a "partial" mobilization, Igor Girkin, a notorious former intelligence officer who played an instrumental role when war first erupted in the Donbas in 2014, had been an outspoken critic of the Russian military for weeks, and had also spent weeks calling for Putin to order a full mobilization. On October 2, a day after the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed the withdrawal from Lyman, Girkin posted a photograph of General Valery Gerasimov, the head of the armed forces' General Staff -- and lambasted him. He also ripped into the top commander of the Central Military District, Colonel General Aleksandr Lapin, and even Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, whom Girkin has repeatedly derided as a "plywood marshal." "This comrade should be celebrated for all of our victories in the current special military operation," Girkin wrote sarcastically, referring to Gerasimov. Ramzan Kadyrov, the strongman head of Chechnya, has been even more outspoken in his criticism of the military brass. On October 1, he accused Lapin of failing to provide adequate communications and supplies. He also proposed taking more drastic measures, including using a tactical nuclear weapon against Ukraine. His criticism was echoed directly by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a St. Petersburg businessman who is known for his close ties to the Kremlin and for owning the notorious private military company Vagner. "Kadyrov's expressive statement, of course, is not at all in my style," Prigozhin was quoted as saying by his catering company Konkord. "But I can say.... Send all those bastards barefoot, with machine guns, to the front." On October 2, the tabloid newspaper Komsomolskaya pravda, whose coverage has been reliably supportive of the government and the war in Ukraine, published a frank article by its main war correspondent chronicling the defeat of Russian troops and the "typical reasons for what happened." "They were talked about after the retreat from the Kharkiv region: The shortage of forces, the errors of individual military officials in organizing defense," the reporter wrote, also citing soldiers who refused to fight as one of the problems. "And reserves that arrived late, and the lack of coordination between various units on the ground, and the lack of modern reconnaissance equipment," he went on. "The risk of encirclement or shameful captivity became too great, and the Russian command made a decision to fall back," he wrote. Under a headline reading "The Surrender of Lyman Has Become A Political Problem," the newspaper Nezavisimaya gazeta published a column on October 2 that said, "for the first time since the start of the special military operation, army commanders are openly named in comments, allegedly guilty of problems arising at the front." The paper also quoted an incredulous Andrei Gurulyov, a former general and commander of the 58th Combined Arms Army who is now a lawmaker in the the lower house of parliament. "I don't understand why they didn't correctly assess the situation all the time, didn't strengthen the group," he was quoted as saying. "The problem is a basic lie, a report of a good situation.... The whole problem is not on the ground, but [at the Defense Ministry], where they still do not understand, they still do not own the situation." "Until something else entirely emerges in the General Staff, nothing will change," he said, according to the paper. Even on the country's main state TV channels, which serve as the primary source of news for the vast majority of Russians, the tone in recent days has grown more sober. The main evening broadcasts on October 2 avoided explicit mention of the Lyman defeat and withdrawal. On Rossia-1, which is watched by millions of viewers, the bombastic host of the flagship Sunday evening show, Dmitry Kiselyov, spoke of a "difficult" situation in the Donbas. And on an evening talk show on Rossia-1, whose shouting debates have long been reliably supportive of the Kremlin and scathingly critical of the West, Vladimir Solovyov, an acerbic pro-Kremlin TV host, warned that even as mobilization continues, Russians shouldn't expect good news in the short term. "This means that for a certain period of time, things won't be easy for us. And right now we shouldn't be expecting good news," Solovyov said. "We need 'long will' and strategic patience." In Ukraine, officials have gleefully noted the recriminations now bubbling to the surface. In a video posted on October 1, President Volodymyr Zelensky himself highlighted the backbiting: "By the way, they have already begun to bite each other there: they are looking for the guilty, blaming some generals for the failures," he said. A Russian Admission Of Defeat Or Concession 'Is Not In The Cards' The Russian defeat at Lyman, and the strident criticism, contrasted with the triumphant production that the Kremlin staged the day before Lyman fell, when Putin hosted an elaborate ceremony to proclaim the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, including the one where Lyman is located. "The main takeaway [of the speech] is that Putin isn't going to stop, no matter the costs. The speech was incoherent and scattered, suggesting that there is no clear strategy," said Margarita Zavadskaya, a political scientist at the Finnish Center for Russian and East European Studies at the University of Helsinki. "The Russian regime is manifesting its personalist nature and a sheer lack of any constraints." The criticism also coincides with rising nervousness for many Russians about the conflict in Ukraine, particularly Putin's abrupt call for the mobilization of hundreds of thousands of reservists and others to fight. That has led to a massive exodus of Russian men, and women, fleeing the country. It has also led to a documented uptick in anxiety and alarm among Russians, according to multiple public opinion polls. The mobilization order, says Nixey of Chatham House, suggests that Putin is not completely isolated from the realities of how badly the Russian campaign in Ukraine is going. "I don't think it's ignorance, the recent events of mobilization suggest that more accurate information is being fed into Vladimir Putin," Nixey said. "He's being told it's not going too well, and so he's making moves to shift the dial." "I do think the Kremlin is sensitive of the populace and is looking for ways to ensure that its compliance continues in a deteriorating situation, on the battlefield," he said. "The least likely option of all is any kind of Russian admittance of defeat or concession or even really going to the negotiating table. That is not in the cards at the moment," he said. "A long, drawn-out war is preferable to the Kremlin than a short one, one in which there is no possibility to sell a victory." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says Ukraine's armed forces are pressing ahead with advances against Russian forces after liberating more towns in a number of areas. Zelenskiy gave no further details in announcing in his nightly video address that the offensive movement of our army and all our defenders continued on October 3. "New population centers have been liberated in several regions. Fierce fighting continues in many areas of the front," he said without specifying which settlements had been liberated. Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, Russian protests, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here. He added that more and more occupiers are trying to escape, more and more losses are being borne by the enemy army, and there is a growing understanding that Russia made a mistake by going to war against Ukraine." A day earlier Zelenskiy said its forces took full control of the strategic eastern city of Lyman in the Donbas region. Serhiy Cherevatiy, a spokesman for the Eastern Group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said Ukrainian troops went on to liberate the settlement of Torske near Lyman on October 2. There were also reports on October 3 that Ukrainian forces were recapturing towns along the west bank of the Dnipro River in southern Ukraine. The scale of the Ukrainian advance was unconfirmed, but Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed leader in occupied parts of Kherson, told Russian state television that there were breakthroughs. "There's a settlement called Dudchaniy, right along the Dnipro River, and right there, in that region, there was a breakthrough. There are settlements that are occupied by Ukrainian forces," he said. Russian military bloggers earlier on October 3 described a Ukrainian tank advance through dozens of kilometers of territory along the riverbank. In a rare comment by a Ukrainian official on the situation, Anton Herashchenko, an adviser to Ukraine's interior minister, posted what he said was a video of a Ukrainian soldier waving a flag in Zolota Balka, downriver from the former front line. A senior U.S. military official said on October 3 that the attacks by Ukrainian forces have forced Russia into a defensive crouch in Kherson, hampering Russian efforts to resupply their frontline troops. The official, who briefed reporters in Washington on condition of anonymity, said that so far the United States has seen only small numbers of Russian reinforcements coming into Ukraine in an effort to shore up their defenses. The recapture of Lyman was Ukrainian forces' most significant battlefield gain in weeks and followed a counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region to the north that swept Russian forces and stunned many observers. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Washington was "very encouraged" by Ukrainian gains. The United States will soon deliver to Ukraine four more advanced rocket systems, U.S. officials said on October 3. The High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, known as HIMARS, have been credited with helping the countrys military gain momentum in the war. HIMARS have been used to strike bridges that Russia has used to supply its troops. The additional four HIMARS will be part of a new $625 million package of aid expected to be announced on October 4, according to the U.S. officials, who were quoted in U.S. media reports. The decision marks the first time that the United States has sent more HIMARS to Ukraine since late July, and it will bring the total number delivered so far to 20. Lyman sits at a crossroads and a switch yard for railroads, and analysts say Ukrainian troops would likely use the city as a staging post for further advances east. The city had been the scene of intense fighting for days, with Ukrainian troops gradually encircling it and the estimated 5,000 Russian troops that were defending it. Russias Defense Ministry said on October 1 that it was pulling troops out of the area "in connection with the creation of a threat of encirclement." Unconfirmed reports said Russian forces there had suffered heavy casualties and an unknown number of soldiers were taken prisoner. It was the latest setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin, coming one day after he proclaimed the annexation of four Ukrainian regions that have been partly occupied by Russian forces for months now. The Donetsk region, where Lyman is located, is one of the four regions Putin claimed. Kyiv and the West have condemned the annexation declaration as illegal and a farce. Ramzan Kadyrov, an ally of Putin and head of Russia's Chechnya region, has said Moscow should consider using a low-yield nuclear weapon in Ukraine after the loss of Lyman. In a statement criticizing Russian generals for the loss of Lyman, Kadyrov said it was time for the Kremlin to make use of every weapon at its disposal. I do not know what the Defense Ministry reports to the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, but in my personal opinion we need to take more drastic measures, including declaring martial law in the border territories and using low-yield nuclear weapons, Kadyrov said on his Telegram channel. Putin's declaration that Russia was annexing Donetsk, along with Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, was a major escalation by the Kremlin. Observers said it signaled a further digging-in by the Russian leadership, dampening prospects for a peace deal. Together with Crimea, which Moscow seized in 2014, the four regions make up around 20 percent of Ukraine, including some of its most industrialized territory. Russia's setbacks on the battlefield also come amid reports of chaos in a mobilization ordered less than two weeks ago by Putin that has seen tens of thousands of Russian men suddenly called up into the military and tens of thousands of others fleeing abroad. Mikhail Degtyarev, governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russia's Far East, said around half of the thousands of men called up there had been found unfit for duty and sent back home. He said he fired the region's military commissar. "The military commissar of the Khabarovsk region, Yuri Laiko, has been suspended," Degtyaryev said in a video posted on Telegram. This will have no impact on the fulfilment of the tasks that the president has set for us," Degtyaryev said. With reporting by Reuters Weather Alert ...FROST ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 8 AM EDT WEDNESDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures as low as 32 will result in frost formation. * WHERE...In New York, Eastern Clinton and Eastern Essex Counties. In Vermont, Grand Isle, Western Franklin, Western Chittenden and Western Addison Counties. * WHEN...From midnight tonight to 8 AM EDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Frost could kill sensitive outdoor vegetation if left uncovered. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. && Hodges selected as dean of the College of Education Priorities include strengthening the colleges internal culture, increasing its statewide impact Thomas Hodges has been selected as dean of the University of South Carolina College of Education, effective Oct. 15. As dean, Hodges will continue the work he has undertaken during his last 15 months as interim dean of the college. Among his priorities are further strengthening the colleges internal culture, increasing outreach across the state and diversifying the states teachers to better reflect the demographic makeup of South Carolina. I am honored and excited to lead the College of Education in advancing scholarship, teaching and service in support of our states communities and schools, Hodges says. The college boasts outstanding faculty, staff and students making real, substantive differences in education-related fields. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with Provost Arnett and President Amiridis to further the academic and research mission of our university, with the goal of expanding the ways the College of Education can support education across the lifespan. Hodges has been with the universitys College of Education for more than 10 years. He began as an assistant professor in 2012, became an associate professor in 2015, and was named a full professor in 2020. His leadership role within the college has grown throughout that time from interim department chair of instruction and teacher education, to associate dean for academic affairs, to executive associate dean for faculty and academic affairs, to, in July 2021, interim dean. He has also served as the director of the South Carolina Teacher Education Advancement Consortium through Higher Education Research and was recently appointed to the South Carolina Teacher Recruitment and Retention Task Force. Dr. Hodges has provided exceptional interim leadership to the College of Education, and he also brings the breadth of experience and vision needed to take the college forward to an even greater impact in and beyond our state, President Michael Amiridis said. Education is such a critical component of elevating communities. It defines the kinds of access people have to certain careers and helps define the success of our state. - Thomas Hodges, Dean of the College of Education Hodges is impressed by the colleges faculty and staff, and he hopes to continue strengthening the culture within the college by supporting all individuals within it. I said during the interview process that the colleges greatest asset is its people, and it always will be its people, he says. And in order for that to function well, we have to have a collective sense about where we are going, who we want to be, and who we intend to serve, and we have to understand our place and role within that. I think an important role of the dean is to help facilitate that direction in making people feel like the work that they do matters and that they have that sense of belonging. Hodges selection concludes a national search that saw the recruitment and consideration of many leaders across the field of education. In Hodges, the university found a leader with the support of the college and campus community, and with a demonstrated track record of growing the colleges footprint and reach across the state. In speaking with the College of Educations administrative leadership team, seeing the overwhelming support for him across our university community, and recognizing his success as interim dean, it was apparent to me that Dr. Hodges was the perfect candidate to lead our college forward, says Donna Arnett, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. I look forward to working with Dr. Hodges to grow the research and teaching profile of the college, and to further lead the state of South Carolinas education system forward in the coming years. The College of Education is a leader across the state of South Carolina, maintaining meaningful partnerships with 87 percent of the states school districts. Its first-of-their-kind initiatives, such as the Carolina Teacher Induction Program, are preparing the next generation of the states teachers and attracting them to stay in-state following graduation. With this tremendous foundation, Hodges is focused on growing the colleges innovative programming and developing new programs to meet the needs of South Carolina. I look forward to advancing the colleges commitments to equity and diversity through signature programs like the Apple Core Initiative, Holmes Scholars, and the Carolina Collaborative for Alternative Preparation, he says. Education is such a critical component of elevating communities. It defines the kinds of access people have to certain careers and helps define the success of our state. We will continue to leverage these strengths, grow our impact and establish models for what a flagship College of Education can and should do. Share this Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about Columbia, Upstate campuses to receive Prisma Health funding for nursing programs The University of South Carolinas Columbia and Upstate campuses are recipients of an investment in scholarships by Prisma Health to help counter the states critical nursing shortage. Prismas pilot nursing recruitment program will provide $5 million for scholarships at five South Carolina colleges and universities, as well as additional advisor positions, educational and student-success resources, collaborative approaches that partner employers and educators, and expansion of the hiring pipeline from the schools to Prisma Health hospitals. The program will support student learning, enhance the student experience, and prepare students for the workforce. And the opportunity to win scholarships will relieve some monetary strain from students. UofSC College of Nursing is preparing and graduating new nurses to enter the workforce who are well-prepared to meet South Carolina's health care needs, College of Nursing Dean Jeanette Andrews says. We thank Prisma Healthcare for their commitment to provide our students with opportunities during their training and after graduation. Nursing student Charlotte Burns says scholarships can have a life-changing impact. Scholarships have helped me feel more connected into the college, they have relieved stress about financial burdens, and have allowed me to refine my resourcefulness and responsibility in my college years, Burns says. These scholarships have opened so many doors for me relating to my academic and extracurricular success, and I look forward to continuing to pursue more scholarships and opportunities in my future semesters at the University of South Carolina. The College of Nursing in Columbia has nationally ranked programs, and investments like Prismas Health Nursing Scholars program can further bolster UofSC leadership in nursing and the health sciences by building and maintaining relationships that will ultimately improve health care for people in the Palmetto State. UofSC nursing students are in the top 1% in the nation for their pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examinations for Registered Nurses, and the school has a 100% board pass rate for family nurse practitioners and adult gerontological acute care nurse practitioners. The College of Nursing has the nations best graduate nursing online program overall and also ranks No. 1 for veterans, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report. Since 2015, the college has increased prelicensure nursing student enrollment by 33%. Scholarships have helped me feel more connected into the college, they have relieved stress about financial burdens, and have allowed me to refine my resourcefulness and responsibility in my college years. Charlotte Burns, nursing student This new program comes at a much-needed time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, South Carolina can expect a 24% nursing staff shortage over the next few years. According to the federal Bureau of Health Workforce, the state has the lowest nurse-to-population ratio in the United States 7.89 nurses per 1,000 people, compared with a national average of 12.06. The Prisma Health Nursing Scholars program should impact more than 200 students statewide. UofSC Upstates program, which includes 24 students, launched last month. The UofSC program will launch in January 2023. Both schools will collaborate with Prisma Health on fundraising to further support the program. Clemson University, Greenville Technical College, and Midlands Technical College are the other three institutions partnering with Prisma for the pilot program. Share this Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about THEMATIC ISSUES Climate and Security Expected Council Action Gabon is planning to hold a debate on Climate and security in Africa under the Threats to international peace and security agenda item as one of the signature events of its Council presidency. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed; Tanguy Gahouma-Bekale, former Chair of the Africa Group of Negotiators on Climate Change; and Patrick Youssef, ICRC Regional Director for Africa, are the anticipated briefers. No formal outcome is anticipated. Key Recent Developments On 13 December 2021, the Security Council voted on a draft resolution on the security implications of climate change. The draft, which was initiated by Ireland and Niger and co-sponsored by 113 member states, had the support of 12 Council members. However, it was vetoed by Russia. India also voted against the draft, while China abstained. China, India and Russia had expressed strong reservations about the draft from the outset of the negotiations. After the co-penholder placed it under silence procedure on 29 November 2021, they broke the silence and disseminated nearly identical letters to Council members that objected to the draft resolution, arguing that there is no clear scientific background for equating climate change with security concerns. Had it been adopted, it would have been the first standalone Council resolution on this issue. The draft emphasised the need for a comprehensive, whole of UN approach to address climate change and its effects. It requested the Secretary-General to submit to the Council within two years a report on the security implications of the adverse effects of climate change in relevant country or region-specific contexts on the Councils agenda as well as recommendations on how climate-related security risks can be addressed. It also encouraged relevant UN peacekeeping operations and special political missions to deploy dedicated capacity on climate security. In lieu of the draft resolution, Russia circulated a draft presidential statement on 9 December 2021 on the security threats in the Sahel region, including climate change, as an alternative to the resolution. Several Council members were unwilling to engage on the draft, which never gained traction. Since the veto in 2021, the Councils focus on climate change and security at the thematic level has markedly decreased. This months debate will be the first formal meeting on the issue in 2022. Climate change has been discussed, however, in the informal Arria-formula format this year. On 9 March, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) convened a ministerial-level Arria-formula meeting on climate finance (that is, the local, national or transnational financing of initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and its effects) as a means to build and sustain peace in conflict, post-conflict and crisis situations. The UAEs special envoy for climate change and minister of industry and advanced technology, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, chaired the meeting. At the country-specific level, the Council has continued to incorporate climate change language in resolutions authorising or renewing peace operations in 2022. This has been the case with respect to peace operations in Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Iraq, Mali, South Sudan, and Somalia. Climate change was also referenced in a 31 August presidential statement initiated by China that recognised the need to enhance capacity-building support to African countries. In that statement, the Council called for the international community and the UN to support Africa in its efforts to mitigate and adapt to the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. Incorporating climate change references in other outcomes has been difficult. In this regard, Council members tried to adopt presidential statements this year on the work of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) and the UN Office for Central Africa (UNOCA), which failed because of disagreements over whether to include language on climate change and security. India, in particular, resisted such references in both cases. There has been notable activity in the Informal Expert Group (IEG) on Climate and Security this year. Established in 2020, this entity is designed to help Council members develop a more systematic approach to climate-related security risks. The current co-chairs of the IEG are Kenya and Norway. On 4 February, the IEG convened a briefing on evidence and research from different regions on the linkages between climate change and security. IEG meetings were also held on 5 May and 2 June to discuss climate-related security challenges in Iraq and Mali, respectively. UN Deputy Special Representative for Iraq Irena Vojackova-Sollorano briefed at the 5 May meeting, while Alain Noudehou, the UN Deputy Special Representative for Mali, briefed at the 2 June meeting. The IEG meetings have been held virtually this year, which has facilitated briefings by UN staff in the field. Key Issues and Options The key issue for the Council is whether and how to integrate climate change and security concerns more systematically in its work. Another key issue is how to strengthen synergies among the UN system, regional and sub-regional organisations, national governments, and grass-roots actors in managing and mitigating climate change-related security risks. A possible option for the Council is to invite a civil society representative to the debate to brief on the adverse effects of climate change from a regional perspective. Gabon could also consider producing a summary of the debate that captures its main themes and circulating it as a UN document. Over the longer term, Council members could consider a visiting mission to various sub-regions of Africa that focuses on the threats posed by climate change to peace and security and generates thinking about how the Council can best address these threats. Council Dynamics Although all current members of the Council recognise that climate change poses an existential threat to human civilisation, strong divisions persist over whether the Council is an appropriate forum to address climate change. Eleven membersAlbania, France, Gabon, Ghana, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico, Norway, the UAE, the UK, and the USsupport a more systematic integration of climate-related security risks into the Councils work, with varying degrees of commitment. Several of these members tend to emphasise that factors such as drought, water scarcity, food insecurity, and desertification that are caused or exacerbated by climate change, increase the risk of violent conflict, in addition to having devastating effects on human security. Gabon, which is organising this months debate, is a strong proponent of Council engagement on climate change and security. From 29 August to 2 September, it hosted Africa Climate Week 2022 in Libreville, which included the participation of over 2,300 stakeholders and focused on the following issues: resilience to climate risks, transition to a low-emission economy, and partnership to address climate-related challenges. Brazil, India and Russia are sceptical about Council engagement on this issue, especially at the thematic level. They believe that climate change is fundamentally a sustainable development issue that is more appropriately addressed by other parts of the UN system, including the General Assembly and ECOSOC. Although China has had reservations about the Councils role on this issue, it incorporated climate change language in the 31 August presidential statement it initiated, working closely with the African members of the Council (Gabon, Ghana, and Kenya) on the text. Several developing countries in the Security Council, including those that support a role for this organ on climate and security matters, underscore the need for developed countries to contribute more to climate financing for the developing world. UN DOCUMENTS ON CLIMATE AND SECURITY This was the presidential statement initiated by China on peace and security in Africa. This was the draft resolution in blue on climate and security. The draft resolution failed to be adopted because of a veto from Russia. It received 12 votes in favour, two against (India and Russia) and one abstention (China). The draft resolution was co-sponsored by 113 member states. AFRICA Great Lakes Region (DRC) Expected Council Action The Secretary-Generals Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, Huang Xia, is expected to provide his biannual briefing to the Council in October on the implementation of the 2013 Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework (PSC Framework) for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Great Lakes region. Key Recent Developments The most recent briefing on the Secretary-Generals biannual report on the PSC framework was held on 27 April. Xia highlighted the security challenges in eastern DRC due to the resumption of military activities by the Mouvement du 23 Mars (M23 Movement) and the increasing attacks by other armed groups operating in the region; developments which have undermined the positive trend in the rapprochement among countries of the region. Xia welcomed the regional approach taken by the East African Community (EAC) using two tracks: a political track to facilitate consultations between the DRC and armed groups and a military track, through the establishment of a regional force, to fight armed groups that refuse to take part in a political dialogue. He indicated that his office, in cooperation with the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO), has been rendering logistical and technical support to these efforts, which are referred to as the Nairobi process. On 6 July, the Chairperson of the International Conference for the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Angolan President Joao Lourenco, hosted Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Luanda for talks to ease tensions between the two countries following the resurgence of the M23 Movement. (DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23, which Rwanda denies). The two countries agreed on a roadmap that includes the immediate withdrawal of the M23 from occupied positions based on the decisions of the Nairobi process. They also vowed to defeat the Forces Democratiques de Liberation du Rwanda (FDLR), an ethnic Hutu armed group active in eastern DRC, and its splinter groups. Furthermore, the DRC and Rwanda agreed on the need to fight hate speech and create conditions for the return of refugees. Based on the Luanda roadmap adopted on 7 July, the two countries held their joint permanent commission in Luanda on 20-21 July with a view to mending bilateral ties. On 6 July, the representatives of the guarantor institutions of the PSC Frameworkthe AU, UN, ICGLR, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC)met in Nairobi to discuss the latest developments in the region in light of the deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC and its implications for regional peace and security. In a joint statement, the representatives supported efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue through the Nairobi and Angolan mediation processes. The EAC summit held on 22 July in Arusha, Tanzania, appointed then-Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta as a facilitator to oversee the implementation of the Nairobi process and decided to expeditiously implement its decision to deploy a regional force in eastern DRC as part of the Nairobi process. According to media reports, Burundi became the first country to deploy a battalion in South Kivu, eastern DRC, on 15 August as part of the EAC regional force. On 8 September, the EAC and DRC signed a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) in Kinshasa. The agreement envisages the deployment of the regional force for an initial period of six months. Aside from the ongoing military efforts to counter the activities of armed groups, countries in the region have been working on non-military measures to address security challenges. On 22 August, the heads of intelligence and security services in Burundi, the DRC, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda met in Kampala to review the overall security situation in the region and define a strategy to engage illegal armed groups. The intelligence officials form part of the Contact and Coordination Group, which was established in May 2021 to facilitate non-military solutions to the security situation in the eastern DRC. As part of addressing the root causes of conflict, countries of the region have also been focused on countering illicit exploitation of and trade in natural resources in eastern DRC and the region. The latest report of the Group of Experts assisting the 1533 DRC Sanctions Committee, published on 14 June, described how armed groups have continued to traffic in and profit from trade in natural resources in eastern DRC. The guarantors of the PSC Framework underscored the need for countries of the region to redouble efforts in implementing the recommendations of the high-level workshop on natural resources, which was held in Khartoum from 31 August to 2 September 2021, to strengthen the implementation of the ICGLR Regional Initiative against the Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources. SADC held its 42nd summit in Kinshasa, DRC. Tshisekedi assumed the rotating chairmanship of SADC in addition to chairing the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the PSC Framework. The leaders at the SADC Summit discussed the security situation in eastern DRC and agreed on the need to explore all avenues to support efforts towards improving the security situation. Key Issues and Options A key issue for the Council is how to comprehensively address the persistent security challenge facing the DRC and the region. In this regard, Council members may express concern over the increasing insecurity in eastern DRC and reiterate their support for regional cooperation initiatives through the Nairobi and the Angolan mediation processes. They may also be keen to learn more about the deployment of the EAC regional force. A possible option for Council members is to invite representatives of the EAC and ICGLR to brief the Council on the Nairobi and Angolan mediation processes. The other major issue is how to continue supporting the full and effective implementation of the PSC Framework to promote peace and security in the Great Lakes region. Council members could adopt a statement noting the recent meeting of the guarantors of the PSC framework and encouraging progress on the priority areas identified at the meeting to address the prevailing peace and security challenges and preserve the gains of recent years in enhancing regional cooperation. Council Dynamics Council members are broadly supportive of addressing the root causes and drivers of conflict in the Great Lakes region through a comprehensive regional approach. They also appreciate the Special Envoys efforts in support of regional initiatives and processes. The US, however, emphasises that the deployment of regional forces in eastern DRC should be closely coordinated with MONUSCO and that the Security Council should be notified prior to such deployments. Council members also support efforts to counter the illegal exploitation of natural resources, but there is disagreement among members on the use of sanctions to address the issue. The US proposed that Belgian businessman Alain Goetz and affiliated companies (in the Great Lakes region and elsewhere) be included in the sanctions designation list for their involvement in illegal gold exports from DRC, but China and Russia placed a hold on that proposal. At the 27 April meeting of the Council, China argued that the relevant sanctions measures of the Security Council must not be misused, let alone become a tool for suppressing other political and commercial players. UN DOCUMENTS ON THE GREAT LAKES This presidential statement recognised the progress made in the implementation of national and regional commitments under the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework, and urged the signatory states to remain committed to its full implementation. This was the Secretary-Generals latest report on the implementation of the 2013 Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework (PSC Framework) for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Great Lakes region, which covers the period from 16 September 2021 to 15 March. This was a Security Council briefing on the situation in the Great Lakes region. AMERICAS Haiti Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council is expected to receive a briefing from Special Representative and head of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) Helen La Lime on recent developments and the Secretary-Generals regular quarterly report on BINUH. The Council also expects to receive a report from the Secretary-General on options to support the Haitian National Police (HNP) in its fight against gang violence, in accordance with resolution 2645 of 15 July, which most recently renewed BINUHs mandate for one year. Both reports are due by 15 October. BINUHs mandate expires on 15 July 2023. Key Recent Developments Haiti remains plagued by instability, with political deadlock, gang violence and natural disasters exacerbating humanitarian needs and complicating efforts to alleviate the dire situation. Council members grappled with how best to support Haitian authorities in addressing the countrys multidimensional crisis when they negotiated resolution 2645. During the negotiations, China apparently advocated several far-reaching measures, including the establishment of an arms embargo, the imposition of targeted sanctions and the establishment of a multinational force to support Haitis efforts to fight gang violence. Other members felt that more time was needed to discuss such suggestions. In an apparent compromise, the resolution indicates the possibility of the Council considering such measures in the near future. Resolution 2645 demands an immediate cessation of gang violence and criminal activities and expresses the Councils readiness to take appropriate measures (such as imposing a travel ban or assets freeze) against those engaged in such activities and in human rights abuses within 90 days of the adoption of the resolution (that is, by 15 October). It requests the Secretary-General to consult with the Haitian government, relevant countries and regional organisations regarding possible options for enhanced security support for the HNP to combat gang violence, and to submit a report to the Security Council by 15 October. In addition, resolution 2645 calls on all Haitian stakeholders to urgently reach agreement on a framework for a political process with the aim of organising elections. It requests the Haitian government to provide the Council with an update on progress in this regard by 17 October. (For background, see our 15 July Whats in Blue story.) On 7 July, as Council members were negotiating BINUHs mandate renewal, violence erupted in the Cite Soleil commune in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, with gangs clashing over territorial control. La Lime briefed Council members about these developments in closed consultations on 13 July, at the request of China. The violence continued throughout July and August, severely affecting the areas residents. Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric reported on 19 August that hundreds of people had been killed in the clashes and many others had been trapped in the area of fighting without access to medical care, food and water. According to OCHA estimates, nearly 280,000 people were affected by the violence. It seems that the HNP has since been able to regain access to Cite Soleil and that the violence has dissipated. The threat posed by gangs remains a major concern, however, with gang-related violence surging in particular locations from time to time; prior to the recent outbreak, clashes between gangs had also erupted in the Cite Soleil commune in late April, as well as in the communes of Croix-des Bouquets and Tabarre. UN officials have warned that gangs have been systematically perpetrating gender-based violence, including as a tool to control certain segments of the population. On 11 September, the Haitian government announced that it would cease providing subsidies for gasoline, diesel and kerosenethus doubling their price for consumers. Starting on 12 September, citizens took to the streets in Port-au-Prince and other cities across the country to protest the difficult living conditions. Many protestors voiced grievances about the ongoing political stalemate and the governments handling of the security and economic crises. Some demonstrations turned violent, and there have been reports of civilian casualties, but exact numbers had not been confirmed at the time of writing. There have also been reports of looting of businesses and humanitarian warehousesincluding the looting and torching of a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Gonaives on Haitis west coastas well as attacks on banks and on the homes of pro-government politicians and the wealthy elite. Criminal gangs have exacerbated the situation, including through statements encouraging looting and inciting violence against politicians and international organisations. (For more information, see our 25 September Whats in Blue story.) On 26 September, the Security Council held an open briefing, followed by closed consultations, to discuss the recent violent unrest in the country, at the request of China. The Council was briefed by La Lime, WFP Executive Director Valerie Guarnieri and Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Ghada Fathi Waly. At the meeting, Mexico and the USthe co-penholders on Haitiannounced that they were working on a draft resolution proposing specific measures to enable the Security Council to address the many challenges facing the people of Haiti. According to media reports, the proposed resolution will seek to establish travel and financial sanctions on gang leaders and those who facilitate their activities. At the time of writing, the co-penholders have yet to circulate the draft text. La Lime provided an update on the political situation during the 26 September meeting, noting that national stakeholders have begun to re-engage with a renewed sense of urgency. She said that in recent weeks, representatives of the government, political groups and civil society organisations have launched new consultations on ways to forge a wider consensus on a path towards elections. Haitis Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship Jean Victor Geneus, who represented his country at the meeting, confirmed that negotiations are underway and expressed hope that a political agreement can be reached soon. In his 24 September address during the high-level segment of the 77th session of the General Assembly, Geneus said that discussions have begun on the establishment of a body that will oversee the organising of elections, adding that technical support from Haitis partners will be appreciated in this process. Human Rights-Related Developments On 16 July, an Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) spokesperson expressed deep concern over the worsening of violence in Port-au-Prince and the rise in human rights abuses committed by heavily armed gangs against the local population. The spokesperson noted that from January to the end of June, 934 killings, 684 injuries and 680 kidnappings were documented in the capital and that between 8 and 12 July, at least 234 more people were killed or injured in gang-related violence in the Cite Soleil commune. Key Issues and Options A key priority for the Council is to prevent a further escalation of the situation in Haiti, which may have destabilising spillover effects in the region. UN officials and other experts advocate a holistic approach to addressing the situation, which calls for simultaneous efforts to promote a solution to the political deadlock, the security threats and the humanitarian crisis. Experts recommend that the UN system and the Council should also support long-term solutions aimed at addressing the root causes of the violence, including through socioeconomic development. In the short term, Council members appear to be focused on addressing the security threats, which permeate every aspect of the crisis in the country, including by complicating the holding of elections and hindering the delivery of humanitarian aid. Members are apparently awaiting the reports due in October in line with resolution 2645 before deciding on the best course of action in respect of the three options proposed by China (the multinational force, arms embargo and sanctions regime). To inform Council deliberations on the draft text proposed by Mexico and the US, members may consider holding informal virtual meetings with Haitian actors to hear their views. A similar informal practice has developed in the Councils work on Colombia. Members might also wish to seek advice from the UN Secretariat, including through meetings with the subsidiary organs branch of the Security Council Affairs Division (SCAD) and with individuals who have served on Panels of Experts, on the technical aspects of establishing and overseeing a sanctions regime and an arms embargo. (Five years have passed since the Council last established a sanctions regime, for Mali through resolution 2374 in September 2017.) In light of the rising incidence of violence committed against civilians, including sexual and gender-based violence, members may wish to receive more comprehensive data about human rights violations in the country. An option for the Council would be to consider strengthening BINUHs human rights monitoring capacities, to receive more frequent information that can help to identify negative trends requiring the Councils attention. Members may also seek additional information on the effects of the insecurity on children by inviting a UNICEF representative to brief the Council in its next Haiti meeting. Council Dynamics Council members are united in their concern about the situation in Haiti. In recent months, there seems to be a convergence of views regarding the urgency of Council action on the matter. This may be partially attributed to a shift in tone from China, which has long contended that UN involvement in Haiti has been ineffective and failed to achieve its goals. In the past, China called for the Council to curtail its engagement on Haiti, advocating the articulation of a drawdown strategy for BINUH, and for the UN to limit its investment of resources in the country. However, it is now calling for more far-reaching UN involvement. Chinas current position on Haiti also departs from its position on arms embargoes and targeted sanctions in several other situations on the Councils agenda. In this regard, China and Russia have often criticised western Council members for their support of sanctions imposed on African states. At the 26 September meeting, several membersincluding Albania, Brazil, China, and the UKwelcomed the co-penholders initiative to propose a draft resolution on Haiti. Several members, such as Brazil, China and Russia, emphasised the importance of preventing such sanctions from having harmful effects on civilians. The A3 members (Gabon, Ghana and Kenya) advocated increased cooperation between the AU and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to support efforts to address the situation in Haiti. UN DOCUMENTS ON HAITI This resolution renewed the mandate of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) for one year, until 15 July 2023. This was the Secretary-Generals latest 120-day report on Haiti. This was a meeting on the situation in Haiti requested by China. In Hindsight: The Long and Winding Road to Security Council Reform The current war in Ukraine, which has shown the impotence of the UN Security Council when one of its permanent members goes to war in violation of the UN Charter, has brought renewed energy to the debate over reforming the Council. Security Council reform has been an ongoing topic of discussion in the UN General Assembly since the early post-Cold War period, with reform pressures tending to intensify in response to an international crisis that exposes the structural weaknesses of the Security Council. The new momentum for changing the status quo took off on 27 February, when the Security Council referred the situation in Ukraine to the General Assembly following its own failure to adopt a draft resolution deploring Russias aggression against Ukraine. This was the Security Councils first use of a Uniting for Peace resolution in 40 years. Two months later, through an initiative led by Liechtenstein, the General Assembly decided by consensus (A/RES/76/262, adopted on 26 April) that it would meet whenever a veto is cast in the Security Council. It has now convened twice in accordance with this new procedure: following vetoes by China and Russia on the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea in May, and after a Russian veto on Syria in July. Security Council Reform: What Does It Mean, What Would It Require? Security Council reform most often refers to expanding the 15-member Council, including both its permanent and elected members, and regulating the use of the veto. These thorny questions have resulted in a variety of reform initiatives during the past several decades; none has succeeded since 1965 when the Security Council was expanded from 11 to 15 members. On 21 September, US President Joe Biden told the UN General Assembly that the US backed an increase in the number of both permanent and non-permanent members of the Council, saying that the UN needed to become more inclusive so that it can better respond to the needs of todays world. He specified that this included seats for nations the US has long supported and for countries in Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean. He also committed the US to not using the veto except in rare, extraordinary situations, to ensure that the Council remains credible and effective. There have long been calls for a more representative Security Council, and there appears to be some agreement among member states that reform would make the Council, if not more effective, at least more representative in a manner enhancing its legitimacy. However, the path to reform is fraught with procedural and political challenges. Procedurally, expanding the Council will mean amending the UN Charter, which according to its Article 108, requires approval by two-thirds of the members of the General Assembly followed by ratification by two-thirds of UN members legislatures, including the legislatures of all five permanent members of the Security Council. Any change in Security Council membership would require revising Articles 23 and 27. The Security Councils structure has only been changed once in its 77-year history. General Assembly resolution 1991-XVIII (1963) amended the Charter to expand the Councils non-permanent members from six to ten. China (the seat was then held by Taiwan) was the only permanent member voting in favour. France and the USSR voted against, while the US and UK abstained. The expansion took effect in 1965 following the required ratifications. Intergovernmental Negotiations The longstanding vehicle for Council reform discussions is the IGNthe intergovernmental negotiations established in 2008 through the General Assemblys Decision 62/557, and which first met on 19 February 2009. It has been renewed annually since then. (The IGN followed an Open-ended Working Group created in 1993 to discuss increasing membership of the Security Council and other issues.) The 2008 decision outlined five main issues for reform: categories of membership to the Council, the question of the veto, regional representation, the size of an enlarged Council and working methods, and the relationship between the Council and the General Assembly. In 2022, the co-chairs of the IGN during the 76th session of the General Assembly, Denmark and Qatar, convened five informal meetings covering all five clusters of issuesand, for the first time, convened what they termed un-formal conversations as well as oral reflections following the substantive discussions in an attempt to find greater common ground. Within the IGN process, a number of groups represent different positions on the reform of the Security Council, including the African Group, the Arab Group, Benelux, CARICOM, the Group of 4, the L69 Group, the Nordic Group, and the Uniting for Consensus Group. Notwithstanding broad agreement on the need for Council enlargement among member states, there is no consensus among members on the way ahead. During the 76th session, the Ukraine invasion and veto initiative appear to have energised the IGN on some issues of substance, particularly related to the use of the veto, However, the co-chairs elements paper on convergences and divergences illustrates that many issues remain to be considered in the session ahead, which began on 13 September 2022. Absent Council expansion, one proposal that has been considered is to give elected members terms longer than the current two years, and allow consecutive terms, which the Charter currently does not permit. But this, too, would require a formal Charter amendment. Given these obstacles, the path to reform may be neither smooth nor swift. In the interim, there has also been discussion over reform-ish procedural actions or working methods that do not require Charter amendments. Februarys revival of Uniting for Peace, and the General Assembly decision in April that its own engagement will be triggered by a veto, would both fall into this category. Non-Amendment Avenues for Reform Another area of enquiry for the reform-minded, requiring no Charter amendment, is re-examining those of its articles that appear neglected or underused. This could include articles 27(3), 34, 94, and 99. Article 27(3), on obligatory abstention, states that in Council decisions under Chapter VI (Pacific Settlement of Disputes), a party to the dispute shall abstain from voting. A Council member last used it as a reason to refrain from voting in 1960; only one Council member has alluded to this rule in connection with Russia continuing to cast its vote on matters concerning its invasion of Ukraine. Article 34 of the Charter, found under Chapter VI, empowers the Council to investigate any dispute or any situation which might lead to international friction or give rise to a dispute, in order to determine whether the continuance of the dispute or situation is likely to endanger the maintenance of international peace and security. Under this article, the Council can request the Secretary-General or another body to carry out an investigation or fact-finding missionor do so itself. Article 94 allows for any party to refer the matter to the Council when a party to an International Court of Justice (ICJ) case fails to comply with a judgment. In this regard, on 26 February, Ukraine instituted proceedings against Russia before the ICJ, which had rendered provisional measures on 16 March, ordering Russia to immediately suspend the military operations it commenced on 24 February in Ukrainian territory, among other matters. Seeking to revive or expand the use of any of these articles in the context of Ukraine faces particular challenges, both politically and procedurally. However, most reformists acknowledge that their efforts are intended to reinforce the UN Charter, not tailored to resolving a Ukraine-type situation. Article 99 allows the Secretary-General to bring to the Councils attention any issue which he thinks may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security. Few Secretaries-General have invoked Article 99 explicitly, nor need they do so; the article gives them an open door to engage the Council on a broad range of threats. Beyond the use of Charter articles, some members appear interested in expanding the comparatively limited contact between the Security Council and the General Assembly. The General Assemblys recent veto initiative is one way for member states as a group to seek to hold the Security Council accountable for its actions. Another is member states engagement in discussion with the Security Council over its annual report to the General Assembly. While the voices for Security Council reform may be growing louder, any agreement in the short term still seems fraught, perhaps no more so than among the permanent members of the Security Council during a time of extremely tense relations. But reform advocates are conscious of parallel initiatives that could serve to strengthen the Councils resolve, including proposals featured in the Secretary-Generals report on Our Common Agenda. This report touches upon member states desire for a more representative Security Council through enlargement. The Summit of the Future, envisioned for 2024, may also add political momentum to advancing the matter of representation. MIDDLE EAST Iraq Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council is expected to receive a briefing from the Special Representative and head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, on recent developments in Iraq and on the Secretary-Generals latest reports on UNAMI and the issue of missing Kuwaiti and third-party nationals and missing Kuwaiti property. Both reports were provided to Council members in late September. Key Recent Developments The political deadlock gripping Iraq following the 10 October 2021 parliamentary election has deteriorated markedly in recent months. On 13 June, Muqtada al-Sadr, a Shiite cleric who controlled the largest bloc in Iraqs 329-member parliament after the election results were finalised, directed the 73 members of parliament loyal to him to resign. The move followed seven months of failed negotiations to form a new government. These negotiations saw a sharp divide emerge between al-Sadrs movement, which sought to form an alliance with Sunni and Kurdish political parties, and the Shiite Coordination Framework (SCF), a loose coalition of Shiite political parties, including several parties with close ties to Iran. The departed Sadrist members of parliament were subsequently replaced by the candidates who received the second-highest number of votes in the election, many of whom were members of the SCF, and the SCF moved quickly to nominate Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as its candidate for prime minister. Al-Sudani is widely seen as a close ally of al-Sadrs long-time rival and former prime minister of Iraq, Nouri al-Maliki. On 27 July, supporters of al-Sadr stormed Baghdads heavily fortified Green Zone and broke into the Iraqi parliament and other government buildings to protest al-Sudanis nomination. Similar protests began on 30 July, when demonstrators loyal to al-Sadr again streamed into the Green Zone, staging a sit-in and occupying parliament to prevent its members from convening a scheduled vote on al-Sudanis candidacy. The sit-in, which later moved outside parliament but remained in its vicinity, ran for nearly a month after al-Sadr urged his supporters to continue their occupation until his demands were met: these included calls for parliament to be dissolved and a fresh round of elections held. Security forces used tear gas and noise bombs to try to disperse the demonstrators, resulting in injuries to more than 100 protesters and 25 members of the security forces. Supporters of al-Sadr staged mass prayer gatherings in other regions of Iraq and the Green Zone during the sit-in while counter-protests were organised by the SCF. In response to al-Sadrs demand for new elections, the SCF said in a 4 August statement that it supported any constitutional path to solving Iraqs political crises, including holding early elections. The SCF reportedly indicated, however, that it wanted a government to be formed under al-Sudani first and for that government to make preparations for another round of polls. While the sit-in continued, Hennis-Plasschaert held discussions with several key figures regarding the crisis, including al-Sadr and Hadi al-Amiri, leader of the Fatah Alliance, a member of the SCF with close ties to Iran. She also took part in a 17 August national dialogue convened by Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi to find a solution to the gridlock; participants included President Barham Salih, speaker of parliament Mohammed al-Halbousi, and other political leaders. The dialogue was boycotted by al-Sadr, who had called on the Iraqi judiciary to unilaterally dissolve parliament a week earlier. On 29 August, al-Sadr announced his final withdrawal from politics and the closure of all political institutions linked to his movement. The announcement prompted al-Sadrs supporters to storm the Republican Palace in the Green Zone and led to serious clashes between Sadrists, Iraqi security forces, and groups aligned with the SCF and Iran. More than 30 people were killed and a further 700 injured during the ensuing violence, which is widely considered the biggest crisis the country has faced since Iraq recaptured the last major strongholds of Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Daesh) in 2017. The unrest subsided after al-Sadr ordered his followers to end their protests on 30 August. In a 1 September press statement, Council members condemned the violence and appealed for calm and restraint. Among other matters, the statement also urged all parties to peacefully resolve their political differences; respect the rule of law, the right of peaceful assembly, and Iraqi institutions; and avoid violence. On 5 September, al-Kadhimi, Salih and al-Halbousi convened a meeting with representatives of various political parties with the aim of resolving Iraqs political crisis. In a statement after the meeting, al-Kadhimis office said that attendees at the meeting had agreed to form a technical committee comprising the various political forcesto bridge differences with the aim of reaching early elections. Two days later, on 7 September, the Federal Supreme Court rejected a lawsuit filed by the Sadrist movement in mid-August seeking the dissolution of parliament, ruling that it lacks the power to do so. On 28 September, supporters of al-Sadr clashed with Iraqi security forces as they attempted to storm the Green Zone while parliament convened to vote on speaker of parliament al-Halbousis decision to resign, which al-Halbousi had announced two days earlier (under Iraqs constitution, parliament must decide whether to accept or reject the speakers resignation). Iraqi state media reported that several rockets also landed in the Green Zone during the unrest. Despite the violence, Iraqs parliament voted to reject al-Halbousis rejection and also appointed Ali Mosen Madalawi, a member of parliament aligned with the SCF, as his deputy. The following day, another rocket attack struck the Green Zone. At the time of writing, no casualties were reported and no one had claimed responsibility for the attack. Tensions between Iraq and Turkiye have risen in recent months. On 20 July, artillery shells struck a tourist resort in the Zakho district of the Duhok governorate in Iraqi Kurdistan, killing at least nine people and wounding at least 23 more. Iraq blamed Turkiye for the attack and has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding it, while Turkiye has attributed responsibility to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which it considers a terrorist organisation. On 26 July, the Council convened for an open briefing and closed consultations to discuss the attack (for more information, see our 26 July Whats in Blue story). On 24 September, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), a military unit that operates independently from the rest of Irans armed forces under the direct control of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini, launched artillery and drone attacks against the bases of a Kurdish militant group in northern Iraq. According to media reports, the IRGCs attack was a response to the groups support for the protests that have recently swept Iran, which were sparked by the death in police custody of Iranian-Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini. During the ensuing five days, the IRGC continued to attack the positions of Kurdish groups in northern Iraq. At the time of writing, nine people had been killed and at least 32 others injured in the attacks. On 28 September, the US announced that it had shot down a drone used in the bombardment, saying that the drone had threatened US forces. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) reportedly denounced the strikes, describing them as repetitive violations of the sovereignty of the Kurdistan region, while Iraqs foreign ministry said that the IRGCs actions cast a shadow over the region and will only contribute to more tension. In a 28 September statement, the Secretary-General called for immediate de-escalation and urged respect for Iraqs sovereignty and territorial integrity. At press time, Council members were negotiating a press statement concerning the attacks. According to media reports, Iraqs state-owned oil marketer threatened buyers of crude oil from Iraqi Kurdistan with legal action in a letter dated 23 August. The letter is expected to exacerbate existing tensions between the KRG and the federal government and follows a 15 February ruling by the Federal Supreme Court, which found that a 2007 KRG law regulating the oil industry in Iraqi Kurdistan was unconstitutional. The judgment also directed the KRG to hand control of its oil supplies to the federal government and declared the KRGs oil contracts with third parties null and void. ISIL also continues to pose a threat in Iraq. On 3 August, five Iraqi soldiers were killed and another three injured when ISIL fighters attacked a military checkpoint in the eastern province of Diyala. On 21 September, the KRG and the US signed a renewed memorandum of understanding regarding US support for Peshmerga operations against ISIL. Key Issues and Options Council members are following developments in Iraq closely, particularly in light of the violent clashes that erupted in Baghdad at the end of August. A key issue for the Council is reinforcing the importance of maintaining stability and security in the country. Depending on how the situation evolves, Council members could issue a further product that reiterates the need to resolve political disputes peacefully through dialogue and within the applicable legal framework. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members are generally unanimous in their support for UNAMI and their desire to see positive developments in the Iraqi political process and Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations. It appears that negotiations concerning the 1 September press statement were uncontentious, with the initial draft circulated by the penholder passing silence without any Council members providing comments. Regional dynamics continue to affect Iraq, as demonstrated by Iran and Turkiyes recent attacks in Iraqi Kurdistan and the influence of countries in the region on domestic politics. The Iraqi government routinely declares that it does not wish to become a theatre for Iran-US tensions, and Turkiyes military operations in northern Iraq remain ongoing. The US is the penholder on Iraq issues in general and the UK is the penholder on Iraqi-Kuwaiti issues. UN DOCUMENTS ON IRAQ This resolution extended UNAMIs mandate until 31 May 2023. In this press statement, Council members condemned the violence throughout Iraq on 29 and 30 August and expressed deep concern over reported deaths and injuries. EUROPE Kosovo Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council is expected to hold its second briefing this year on the situation in Kosovo. Special Representative and head of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) Caroline Ziadeh will brief on recent developments and the Secretary-Generals latest report. Serbia is expected to participate under rule 37 and Kosovo under rule 39 of the Councils provisional rules of procedure. Key Recent Developments While the EU-facilitated talks remain at an impasse, relations between Belgrade and Pristina have been generally stable since the Councils last briefing on 20 April. On 21 June, Kosovar and Serbian officials agreed on a roadmap to implement energy agreements made in 2013 and 2015. The roughly 50,000 Kosovo Serbs living in the northern part of Kosovo have never paid for electricity, causing Kosovos electricity provider (KOSTT) to declare financial hardship in recent years. The roadmap stipulates that after Pristina issues a licence allowing Drustvo Elektrosevera subsidiary energy company of the Serbian state-run Elektroprivredato operate in Kosovo, Drustvo Elektrosever will assume distribution services in the four northern Serb-majority municipalities of Kosovo. While the roadmap did not provide a specific implementation timeline, its adoption was welcomed by EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue Miroslav Lajcak, who described the agreement as a major step forward. Despite this achievement, tensions on the Kosovo-Serbia border escalated in July over the long-standing dispute over license plates. From 2011 to 2021, Kosovo and Serbia had an arrangement under which Kosovo admitted vehicles displaying either KS (Kosovo) license plates, which are acceptable to Serbia, or RKS (Republic of Kosovo) plates, which are not. After the agreement expired on 15 September 2021, Pristina began enforcing a new policy requiring all vehicles in Kosovo to display the RKS license plate, leading hundreds of Kosovo Serbs to protest at the border. After two days of EU-facilitated negotiations in Brussels, the sides reached a provisional agreement on 30 September 2021 under which special stickers would replace national symbols on vehicle license plates. On 29 June, however, Pristina officials announced that they would move forward with implementing the license plate policy they had postponed in September 2021, and that from 30 September, vehicles with Serbian licence plates would be required to bear RKS plates. They also decided that, as of 1 August, all Serbians entering Kosovo would be issued a temporary Kosovo identification card, valid for 90 days, in place of Serbian-issued identification documents. On 31 July, over tensions between Kosovo police and Kosovo Serbs near the Jarinje and Bernjak border crossings and following consultations with EU and US officials, Pristina again postponed the policys implementation, now until 31 October. Prime Minister Albin Kurti of Kosovo and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met twice in August, under the auspices of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell and Lajcak, to discuss the license plate dispute and Pristinas identification card policy. On 27 August, the two leaders reached an agreement allowing all citizens to travel freely between Kosovo and Serbia using either Belgrade- or Pristina-issued identification cards. Three days later, Belgrade issued a general disclaimer, saying that enabling the use of identity cards by Pristinacannot be interpreted as recognition of unilaterally declared independence of Kosovo. While a settlement was reached on the issue of identification cards, the leaders were unable to break the license plate impasse. Kosovo and Serbian authorities have since taken steps to ease tensions along the border. On 5 September, Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic visited Kosovo for the first time since assuming office in 2017. During her visit, she expressed willingness to compromise in the interest of peace and stability. On the same day, Kosovo ministers visited areas in southern Serbia where ethnic Albanians make up the majority of the population. Nonetheless, anticipating a potential escalation of friction along the Kosovo-Serbia border leading up to the 31 October license plate deadline, on 21 September NATO reportedly called up for training reserve soldiers assigned to Kosovo Force (KFOR), numbering the size of a battalion, which can include up to 1,000 soldiers. KFOR is currently composed of approximately 3,700 troops. Key Issues and Options The Councils main priority is to maintain stability in Kosovo. A key issue for the Council in this regard is how to prevent escalation of tensions along the Kosovo-Serbia border arising from the enforcement of Pristinas license plate policy. Council members could consider pursuing a presidential statement urging both parties to re-engage in diplomatic efforts to advance the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue and to renounce the threat or use of force against one another. The delay in implementing existing agreements within the framework of the EU-facilitated dialogue, including the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities in northern Kosovo, also remains a key issue for the Council. Members may wish to convene an informal interactive dialogue (IID) or a private meeting to discuss this issue with representatives from Kosovo and Serbia and the participation of Borrell and Lajcak. Council Dynamics Council members are united in supporting the EU-facilitated dialogue to establish conditions for the normalisation of relations between Belgrade and Pristina. Members also share the expectation that both sides will engage without preconditions and in good faith, implement existing agreements, and refrain from actions and rhetoric that may increase tensions. Nevertheless, deep divisions among permanent members have continued to characterise the Councils approach to the issue. Among the five permanent Council members, France, the UK and the US recognise Kosovos independence and tend to be supportive of its government; China and Russia do not recognise its independence and strongly support Serbias position and its claim to territorial integrity. Five elected members (Albania, Gabon, Ireland, Norway, and the United Arab Emirates) recognise Kosovos independence, while five (Brazil, Ghana, India, Kenya, and Mexico) do not. The issue of modifying UNMIKs mandate and its possible drawdown is another point of contention among Council members. The US has been the most vocal proponent of ending UNMIKs mandate as well as reducing the frequency of briefings, citing the level of stability in Kosovo. Similarly, the UK has called for a review of UNMIKs mandate, arguing that conditions on the ground have completely changed since UNMIK was established 22 years ago. At the Councils last briefing on 20 April, Albania also questioned UNMIKs raison detre, noting that its competencies and responsibilities have been gradually transferred to the Kosovo authorities. UNMIKs mandate, established in 1999, is unique among the missions routinely addressed by the Council in that it is open-ended. Any attempt to change the mandate and draw down the mission would require a new resolution, which Russia would most likely strongly oppose. UN DOCUMENTS ON KOSOVO This was a meeting on the situation in Kosovo. MIDDLE EAST Lebanon Expected Council Action In October, Security Council members will receive their semi-annual briefing in consultations on the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1559. Adopted in 2004, the 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. Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo is expected to brief. The Secretary-Generals report is due on 12 October. Key Recent Developments Over four months since the 15 May legislative elections, Lebanon remains without a government, as caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Lebanese President Michel Aoun have so far failed to reach an agreement on the composition of the cabinet. On 29 September, Lebanons Parliament convened for the first session to elect the countrys next president. However, no candidate garnered the necessary number of votes. Although Aouns presidential term is set to expire on 31 October, he recently said that he might not step down should a government not be appointed before the end of his term. (The Lebanese president is elected by the Parliament and, according to Lebanons power-sharing arrangement, must be a Maronite Christian, while the prime minister is a Sunni Muslim and the parliamentary speaker a Shia Muslim.) US Senior Advisor for Global Energy Security Amos Hochstein is mediating indirect talks between Israel and Lebanon on the demarcation of the maritime border between the two states. In June, the arrival at the Karish natural gas field in the eastern Mediterranean of a floating production, storage and offloading vessel to extract gas for Israel sparked renewed tensions between Lebanon and Israel. During his latest visit to Lebanon, Hochstein said on 9 September that the negotiations had made very good progress but more work was needed to finalise an agreement. On 31 August, the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2650, which extended the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for another year. (See our 30 August Whats in Blue story for more details.) The resolution extended UNIFILs support to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) through the supply of non-lethal, material and logistical support for six months. Resolution 2650 condemned the maintenance of arms outside state control by armed groups. It also added new language on UNIFILs freedom of movement, saying that, according to the 1995 Agreement on the Status of the UN Interim Forces in Lebanon (SOFA), UNIFIL is authorized to conduct its operation independently and demanding that the parties cease restrictions on UNIFILs movement including by allowing announced and unannounced patrols. Some of this language was seemingly not well received by some Lebanese actors. Following the adoption of resolution 2650, the Lebanese Foreign Affairs Ministry said that the resolution included wording that does not conform to the framework agreement Lebanon has signed with the UN. An official from the Shia group Hezbollah declared that the resolution turned UNIFILs forces into occupation forces. In a 12 September statement, the UNIFIL Spokespersons office said that recently a great deal of misinformation and disinformation about UNIFILs mandate had been circulating in the media and that UNIFIL has always had the mandate to undertake patrols in its area of operations with or without the LAF. This response followed through on another element introduced by resolution 2650, requesting UNIFIL to address disinformation and misinformation against the mission. The Lebanese population continues to face the consequences of a severe socioeconomic crisis. After months of deliberations, the Lebanese Parliament adopted the 2022 state budget on 26 September. The 2022 budget adoption is one of the conditions for Lebanon to unlock a deal with the International Monetary Fund worth around $3 billion. According to a recent UNICEF survey, 70 percent of households in Lebanon rely on credit or borrow money to buy food, and 23 percent of children went to bed hungry in the three months before the survey. UNICEFs study shows that children are aware of the crisis impact on their lives and many feel that emigration is their only hope for a better future. Several incidents, many of them leading to fatalities, have occurred in recent weeks involving boats departing from Lebanon reportedly carrying Syrian, Lebanese and Palestinian migrants. On 6 September, a four-year-old child died in transit to a hospital after the boat she was in with about 60 other passengers was stranded for days at sea between Greece and Malta. Six people died on 12 September when their boat sank off the coast of Turkiye. Over 100 people died after their boat sank near Syrias coast on 22 September. The three boats were reportedly heading to Italy. Cypriot authorities rescued over 400 people in two separate vessels stranded at sea between 19 and 20 September. 4 August marked two years since the Beirut port explosion. Several damaged silos that were left standing eventually collapsed between July and August because of fires generated by the summer temperatures and the fermentation of grain that had been left on site since the explosion. The national inquiry into the responsibilities for the blast has been blocked several times and is currently suspended. On 3 August, six UN Human Rights Council (HRC) independent experts and a group of Lebanese and international NGOs issued separate statements calling for the HRC to establish an international investigation into the explosion. Women, Peace and Security According to a 6 July summary letter on the June visit to Lebanon by members of the Informal Experts Group on Women, Peace and Security (IEG), the UN in Lebanon supports several projects aimed at training women in mediation skills and conflict prevention and resolution. The women who participated in some of these projects reported several positive results, including that the programme helped them to build networks across communities, thereby diminishing the fear of attacks, preventing violence, fostering dialogue and tolerance. However, participants also faced resistance from within families, including a participant who reported facing death threats for being active in her community and for calling for the disarmament of children. Key Issues and Options The instability that could ensue from a delayed presidential election and a possible power vacuum is a potential issue for the Council. A prolonged presidential crisislike the two-year impasse that preceded the election of Aoun on 31 October 2016is likely to add another aggravating factor to Lebanons longstanding socioeconomic crisis. If the process of appointing Aouns successor stalls, then the Council may consider issuing a statement encouraging the swift election of a president to avert further political instability. (Resolution 2650 contains new language based on a 7 July press statement calling on Lebanese leaders to ensure adherence to the constitutional calendar so that the presidential election takes place on time. On 21 September, France, Saudi Arabia and the US issued a joint statement stressing the importance of a timely presidential election.) The substantial amount of weaponry held by Hezbollah and other non-state actors in Lebanon is an ongoing issue for the Council. The latest Secretary-Generals report on resolution 1559 said that incidents between Lebanon and Israel are a reminder of the risks posed by the maintenance of weapons outside State authority, the continued presence of armed militias in Lebanon, and regular violations by Israel of Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity. Council members will continue to monitor developments related to the US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon on the maritime border demarcation. On 17 September, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said that his party is giving a real chance to the negotiations but also that gas extraction by Israel in the Karish field before a deal with Lebanon is agreed would be a red line, adding that Hezbollahs missiles are locked on Karish. On 19 September, Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid said that extraction of gas from Karish is not related to the negotiations and that production would start as soon as possible. Council Dynamics There is consensus among Council members in support of Lebanons sovereignty, territorial integrity and security. Council members also broadly agree on the need for the Lebanese government to carry out reforms to overcome the socioeconomic crisis and on the importance of a timely presidential election. Although more contentious than in 2021, the negotiations on resolution 2650 showed that consensus still exists among Council members on UNIFILs core mandate or, at least, that members are willing to find compromises to retain this consensus even where their views do not precisely align. Marked differences among members remain regarding Hezbollah. Russia sees Hezbollah as a legitimate sociopolitical force in Lebanon. In contrast, the UKwhich unsuccessfully requested that Hezbollah be directly mentioned in resolution 2650and the US see Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation and a source of instability. During the negotiations on resolution 2650, the United Arab Emirates broke silence to demand the inclusion of stronger language condemning the possession of weapons by armed groups outside of the states control, a request that was accommodated by the penholder, France. UN DOCUMENTS ON LEBANON This resolution extended the mandate of UNIFIL for another year until 31 August 2023. 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. AFRICA Libya Expected Council Action In October, the Council will hold a briefing, followed by consultations, on the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). The Council is also expected to vote on a resolution renewing the missions mandate, which expires on 31 October, in accordance with resolution 2647. Key Recent Developments The ongoing political crisis in Libya is the result of the leadership stand-off between incumbent Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Mohammed Dbeibah, elected in February 2021 to head the interim Government of National Unity (GNU), and former Interior Minister Fathi Bashagha, who was elected interim prime minister by the House of Representatives (the Libyan legislature based in Tobruk) on 10 February. The protracted political stalemate continues to generate security threats, including fighting in Tripoli at the end of August between forces loyal to Dbeibah and those supporting Bashagha, as the latter reportedly attempted to enter the capital. Deteriorating living conditions across the country remain a concern. On the political track, the UN is focusing on enabling the holding of credible, transparent, and inclusive elections as soon as possible based on an agreed constitutional framework, according to the Secretary-Generals report dated 19 August. On the economic track, the report said that UNSMIL is supporting efforts for the reform and reunification of the Central Bank of Libya. On the security track, it noted that the mission is supporting the 5+5 Joint Military Commissionwhich consists of five representatives each from the former Government of National Accord and the Libyan Arab Armed Forcesin implementing the October 2020 ceasefire agreement and the action plan for the withdrawal of mercenaries, foreign fighters and foreign forces. On 2 September, the Secretary-General announced the appointment of Abdoulaye Bathily of Senegal as his Special Representative for Libya and head of UNSMIL. (The position of Special Representative replaced the role of Special Envoy, as decided in resolution 2629. Former Special Envoy Jan Kubis resigned in November 2021.) Bathily officially assumed his duties on 25 September. At the time of writing, he was expected to arrive in Libya in early October. Between September 2021 and April, the Council adopted four short-term extensions of UNSMILs mandate because of disagreements among Council members concerning the length of the mandate, the restructuring of the mission, and language regarding the appointment of UNSMILs leadership. Most recently, the Council adopted resolution 2647 on 28 July, renewing the mandate of UNSMIL for three months until 31 October. The resolution maintained UNSMILs core mandated tasks as well as the 30-day reporting cycle. It included language on the need to agree on a pathway to hold elections as soon as possible and called on the Secretary-General to appoint a Special Representative promptly. It was adopted by a vote of 12 in favour and three abstentions by Gabon, Ghana and Kenya (the A3) because of their position that the mandate should have been renewed for longer than three months. (For more, see our Whats in Blue story of 28 July.) On 29 September, the Council unanimously adopted resolution 2652 renewing for one year the authorisation under resolution 2598 to combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking off the coast of Libya. That same day, Council members held consultations on Libya with a briefing by Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee. Key Issues and Options An immediate issue for the Council to consider is what modifications to make, if any, to the mandate of UNSMIL ahead of its expiration on 31 October. A related issue is the length of the mandate, which has been contentious in the recent past. Russia made clear that it would only support a shortened mandate duration until a Special Representative had been appointed. Since a Special Representative has been appointed, an option would be to adopt a resolution extending the mandate for a 12-month duration. When renewing the missions mandate, Council members might consider increasing UNSMILs advisory capacity with additional experts on constitutional and electoral matters. Another option would be to increase the missions capacity in relation to economic issues and human rights. A key issue remains the precarious security situation linked to Libyas uncertain electoral path. A related concern for the Council will be how to foster common political ground between the two rival governments so they can agree on a constitutional framework to pave the way for Libyas long-delayed elections. Council members could consider holding a closed Arria-formula meeting with Libyan civil society representatives to help generate ideas for promoting dialogue between the rival political factions in Libya and supporting an inclusive political process leading to elections. Council Dynamics Council dynamics on Libya have been difficult, resulting in challenging negotiations on the UNSMIL mandate renewal resolutions since September 2021. Members have reiterated the urgent need for a Libyan-led inclusive political process and the holding of elections. Many members are also concerned about the precarious security situation. Council members welcome the appointment of Bathily following a protracted and contentious process. The A3, with the support of China, had publicly called for the position of Special Representative to be filled by an African candidate. Prior to Bathilys appointment, at least one other name was apparently put to the Council, but the candidate was not supported by all 15 members. This held up the appointment process. In a 3 September statement welcoming Bathilys appointment, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken encouraged him to prioritize efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in Libyas state institutions as well as the work of the UN ceasefire monitoring mission as it assists the Libyan 5+5 Joint Military Commission in overseeing the immediate withdrawal of all foreign forces, fighters, and mercenaries. Negotiations ahead of the adoption of resolution 2647 on 28 July were once again arduous. As was the case in April, the initial draft circulated by the UK called for a mandate renewal of one year. It also reverted to requesting the Secretary-General to report to the Council every 60 days, rather than the monthly briefings outlined in resolution 2629 adopted in April. Most Council membersincluding the US, the European Council members and the A3 strongly favoured a substantive one-year mandate renewal or, failing this, at least a six-month renewal. Following opposition from Russia, the first revised draft circulated by the UK included a shortened mandate of six months while retaining the 60-day reporting cycle. However, this apparently was not acceptable to Russia. As a result, resolution 2647 ultimately renewed the mandate for three months with a 30-day reporting cycle. Most members made statements following the adoption of resolution 2647. The UK said that they share the frustration of our African colleagues at the short three-month mandate and referred to Russias refusal to join the consensus on our proposals for a longer mandate for UNSMIL. In its statement, Russia expressed its readiness to extend the missions mandate for a standard period of time and provide more substantive content to a future resolution after the Special Representative for Libya and head of UNSMIL was appointed. The UK is the penholder on Libya. UN DOCUMENTS ON LIBYA This resolution extended UNSMILs mandate until 31 October 2022. This report covered developments in Libya between 20 May and 19 August 2022. This was the adoption of resolution 2647. AFRICA Mali Expected Council Action In October, the Council will hold its quarterly briefing on Mali, followed by consultations. Special Representative and head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) El-Ghassim Wane is expected to brief. The mandate of MINUSMA expires on 30 June 2023. Key Recent Developments Relations have grown increasingly strained between MINUSMA and Malis transitional authorities this year. When the Council adopted resolution 2640 on 30 June, renewing MINUSMAs mandate, Malis UN ambassador said that Mali opposed MINUSMAs freedom of movement in executing its human rights mandate. Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix then visited Mali from 24 to 28 July for discussion with the authorities on the mandate and a planned strategic review of the mission. LaCroixs visit took place after Mali had suspended all MINUSMA troop rotations on 14 July after arresting 49 soldiers from Cote dIvoire at Bamako on 10 July. Authorities said that the Ivorians arrived in Mali without permission; the incident also led to Malis expulsion of MINUSMAs spokesperson Olivier Salgado on 20 July. On 15 August, MINUSMA resumed troop rotations as discussions continued between Mali and the UN to update procedures for conducting and informing authorities about deployments of mission personnel. Togo has mediated between Mali and Cote dIvoire over releasing the detained Ivorian soldiers, who deployed to Mali to provide security for German national support personnel assisting Germanys contingents in MINUSMA. On 3 September, Mali released three women Ivorian soldiers in what it described as a humanitarian gesture. Transitional president Assimi Goita appeared to suggest that Cote dIvoire turn over Malian politicians living in political asylum in Cote dIvoire in exchange for releasing the other Ivorian soldiers in a 9 September speech. On 22 September, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) discussed the situation of the detained soldiers during an extraordinary summit in New York on the margins of the UN General Assembly high-level week. ECOWAS denounced the detentions as blackmail by Malian authorities. It called for the soldiers unconditional release and announced that it would dispatch a high-level mission of the heads of states of Ghana, Senegal and Togo for this purpose. Malis interim Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga strongly criticised the leaders of Cote dIvoire and Niger, as well as the French government two days later during his General Assembly speech on 24 September. The UN Secretariat called for the urgent release of the Ivorian soldiers in a 26 September statement. On 7 August, the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) killed 42 Malian soldiers in Tessit, Gao region, according to Malian authorities, who added that 22 soldiers were wounded and 37 ISGS militants were killed in the fighting. It was the deadliest attack against the military since 2019. Since March, the northern regions of Menaka and Gao have been the scene of fighting between ISGS, the Al-Qaida-affiliated Group for the Support of Muslims (JNIM), and other armed groups, according to some estimates causing around 1,000 civilian deaths and displacing tens of thousands more. On 6 September, ISGS militants seized the town of Talataye, killing at least 30 civilians. On 18 September, Malis security forces and suspected mercenaries of the Russian private security company, the Wagner Group, reportedly killed 35 civilians, mostly ethnic Fulani, in the village of Gouni in the central Mopti region. Meanwhile, beginning in mid-July, JNIM-affiliated forces conducted several attacks near Bamako, including on the military garrison town of Kati, from which successful coups detat were staged in 2012 and 2020. The attacks demonstrated the expanding reach of terrorist groups in the south and the growing threat to Malis capital. On 15 August, France announced the withdrawal of its last remaining forces from Operation Barkhane in Mali. In February, France said it would end the regional counter-terrorism operation in Mali because of escalating tensions with Malis transitional authorities. Malis Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop called for an emergency meeting of the Council in a 15 August letter to the Security Council presidency, accusing France of multiple violations of its airspace and providing intelligence and arms to terrorist groups. During talks from 1 to 5 August between authorities and armed groups that had signed the 2015 Mali Peace and Reconciliation Agreement, the sides agreed to integrate 26,000 ex-combatants into the defence forces and other state institutions. A high-level meeting of the Agreement Monitoring Committee (CSA) was held on 2 September; it was the first meeting of the CSA, which is meant to meet monthly, since October 2021. On 30 August, the Security Council adopted resolution 2649, renewing the Mali asset freeze and travel ban sanctions until 31 August 2023 and extending the mandate of the Mali Panel of Experts until 30 September 2023. The Council established the sanctions regime in 2017 to increase pressure on the parties to the 2015 peace agreement to implement the accord. Human Rights-Related Developments In a 15 August statement, the independent expert on the human rights situation in Mali, Alioune Tine, expressed grave concern over the deterioration of the security and human rights situation following a 10-day visit to the country. The statement noted dramatic increases in human rights violations, with MINUSMA documenting 1,304 violations and abuses from 1 January to 30 June, a 47.17 percent increase from the previous six-month period. While violent extremist groups continue to be the main alleged perpetrators, in some cases, there were credible reports of violations committed by Malian defence and security forces, along with foreign military personnel described as Russian military officials. On 31 August, MINUSMA issued its quarterly human rights report, covering the period 1 April to 30 June. It documented 467 violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law, a decrease of 42 percent compared to the previous quarter. The report found that JNIM, ISGS and similar groups were responsible for 64 percent of human rights abuses. Malian defence and security forces also committed serious violations, including executions, torture and arbitrary arrests. The report noted a significant decrease in violations attributable to Malian forces, however, from 320 during the first quarter of 2022 to 122 in the second quarter. Key Issues and Options Strained relations between MINUSMA and transitional authorities is a key issue, calling into question MINUSMAs ability to carry out its mandate. The UN is conducting a strategic review of MINUSMA, pursuant to resolution 2640, which is to be submitted by 13 January 2023. The review should include analysis of the political and security challenges affecting the missions ability to implement its mandate, an assessment of cooperation with the host country authorities and movement restrictions, recommendations about the necessary conditions for MINUSMA to continue operating, and options for MINUSMAs future configuration, force levels, and uniformed personnel ceiling. The deteriorating security situation remains a critical issue. This includes the expanding threat posed by terrorist groups, who increasingly appear to threaten Bamako and southern Mali. Related to this are issues regarding the protection of civilians in the face of continuing terrorist attacks and intercommunal violence, as well as reported human rights violations and abuses by security forces during counter-terrorism operations. The forthcoming strategic review of MINUSMA is expected to inform Council decisions on MINUSMA. Malis political transition to restore constitutional order is an ongoing key issue. The new timetable for completing the transition is set for 26 March 2024. Likewise, making progress in the long-stalled 2015 peace agreement between the government and northern armed groups remains a key issue. The Council could invite ECOWAS, which has led efforts to promote Malis transition, to brief. As recommended by the Mali Panel of Experts, members could also encourage ECOWAS to pay equal attention to the implementation of the peace agreement in its engagement with Mali. The 2374 Mali Sanctions Committee may continue outreach activities to improve sanctions compliance by Mali and regional states. Council Dynamics Council discussion on Mali has become increasingly polarised this year. In the vote on MINUSMAs mandate renewal, China and Russia abstained, marking the first time the mandate was adopted without consensus. China and Russia have been supportive of transitional authorities positions and views, pitting them against the US and European members on several issues, including reported human rights abuses by Malis security forces and restrictions on MINUSMAs activities. US and European members are also critical of Malis decision to partner with the Wagner Group, which contributed to the decision by France and other Western countries to end their counter-terrorism operations in Mali. The three African members (A3)Gabon, Ghana and Kenya play an important role in Council negotiations on Mali. Despite tensions between ECOWAS and the transitional authorities over delays in restoring constitutional order, the A3 are cautious about criticising Mali, particularly over human rights, which they believe could prove counter-productive to MINUSMAs efforts to induce cooperation. France is the penholder on Mali. Ambassador Juan Ramon de la Fuente Ramirez (Mexico) chairs the 2374 Mali Sanctions Committee. France and Mexico served as co-penholders on resolution 2649 renewing the sanctions regime. UN DOCUMENTS ON MALI This resolution renewed the Mali sanctions measure until 31 August 2023 and the mandate of the Mali Panel of Experts until 30 September 2023. This renewed the mandate of MINUSMA until 30 June 2023. This contained the explanation of votes at the adoption of resolution 2640 that extended the mandate of MINUSMA for one year. This press statement condemned in the strongest terms the attack earlier that day which killed two MINUSMA peacekeepers from Egypt and wounded five. Overview In October, Gabon will hold the presidency of the Security Council. Gabon plans to organise two signature events. The first signature event is a debate on Peace and security in Africa: strengthening the fight against financing of armed groups and terrorists through the illicit trafficking of natural resources. Gabons President Ali Bongo Ondimba is expected to chair the meeting. AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Bankole Adeoye, an official from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and a representative of civil society are likely to brief. The second signature event is a debate on Climate and security in Africa. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed; Tanguy Gahouma-Bekale, former Chair of the Africa Group of Negotiators on Climate Change; and Patrick Youssef, ICRC Regional Director for Africa, are the anticipated briefers. In October, the annual open debate on women, peace and security will take place with a particular focus on Strengthening womens resilience and leadership as a path to peace in regions plagued by armed groups. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, UN Women Executive Director Sima Sami Bahous and two women civil society representatives are the anticipated briefers. The Security Council is also scheduled to hold its annual debate on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations, focusing on the AU. Mousa Adamo is expected to chair the meeting. Guterres and Faki Mahamat are the anticipated briefers. A presidential statement is a possible outcome. The 16th annual joint consultative meeting between the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) will be held on 14 October. The annual meeting rotates between New York and Addis Ababa, the home of the AU headquarters. This year, the meeting will be held in New York, and it will be preceded by the ninth informal joint seminar of the Security Council and the AUPSC, which is set to take place on 13 October. The Security Council is scheduled to hold its annual private meeting with the President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In addition to the signature events, African issues on the programme of work in October are: Western Sahara , consultations on the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) and the mandate renewal of MINURSO; Mali , briefing and consultations on the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA); Great Lakes region , the biannual briefing and consultations; Libya , briefing and consultations on the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and the mandate renewal of UNSMIL; Somalia , briefing by the Chair of the 751 Somalia Sanctions Committee and the mandate renewal of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM); and Sudan/South Sudan , briefing and consultations on the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). There may also be a meeting during the month on the work of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). Middle East issues on the programme include: Iraq , briefing and consultations on the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI); Yemen , monthly briefing and consultations on developments; Golan , consultations on the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF); Lebanon , consultations on the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1559; Syria , meetings on the political/humanitarian situations and on the chemical weapons track; and Middle East, including the Palestinian question , the quarterly open debate. The Council is expected to meet on two European issues in October. A briefing on the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) is anticipated, and one or more meetings on Ukraine are likely during the month. Two issues in the Americas will be discussed in October: Haiti , a briefing on the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH); and Colombia , a briefing and consultations on the UN Verification Mission in Colombia and renewal of the missions mandate. Other issues could be raised in October depending on developments. Peace and Security in Africa: Financing of Armed Groups and Terrorists Through Illicit Trafficking of Natural Resources Expected Council Action In October, Gabon is organising a high-level debate on strengthening the fight against the financing of armed groups and terrorists through the illicit trafficking of natural resources. The debate will be one of the signature events of Gabons presidency. AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Bankole Adeoye, Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Ghada Fathi Waly, and a representative of civil society are likely to brief. Gabonese Minister of Foreign Affairs Michael Moussa Adamo is expected to chair the meeting. Key Recent Developments Illicit trafficking of natural resources by armed groups and terrorists has received growing attention from the Security Council in recent years. For example, resolution 2195, which addressed the role of transnational crime in supporting terrorism, expressed concern that terrorists benefit from the illicit trade in natural resources including gold and other precious metals and stones, minerals, wildlife, charcoal and oil. In a similar vein, resolution 2462 on combatting the financing of terrorism noted with grave concern that terrorist groups raise funds through the exploitation of natural resources. The issue was referred to in greater detail in resolution 2482 on the nexus between terrorism and international organised crime, which encouraged states to continue their efforts to end the illicit trade in national resources as part of broader efforts to ensure that illicit trade in natural resources is not benefitting sanctioned entities, terrorist groups, armed groups, or criminal networks. Resolution 2482 also called on member states to consider the ratification and implementation of relevant global instruments and their participation in national, regional and global initiatives that aim to build capacity to prevent the illicit trafficking of natural resources. The Council has also considered the misuse of natural resources while discussing conflict prevention and the relationship between security and development, including during the February 2011 debate on the interdependence between security and development (S/PV.6479), the June 2013 debate on conflict and natural resources (S/PV.6982), the January 2015 debate on inclusive development (S/PV.7361), and the 2018 briefing on the role of natural resources as a root cause of conflict (S/PV.8372). Illicit trafficking of natural resources by armed groups is an important issue in several files on the Councils agenda. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), individuals and entities can be designated under the 1533 DRC sanctions regime for supporting individuals or entities, including armed groups or criminal networks, involved in destabilising activities in the DRC through the illicit exploitation or trade of natural resources, including gold or wildlife as well as wildlife products. In its most recent midterm report, the 1533 DRC Panel of Experts analysed the gold and coal mining activities of Mai-Mai Apa Na Pale and its allies, noting that the armed groups have sold gold to informal dealers in Kalemie through smugglers and taxed varying quantities of coal from artisanal miners weekly production. Illicit trade in natural resources was also referred to in the presidential statement on the Great Lakes region that was adopted by the Council during Kenyas presidency in October 2021 (S/PRST/2021/19). Among other matters, the presidential statement recognised the linkage between the illegal exploitation and trade in natural resources and the illegal acquisition and trafficking of small arms and light weapons in fuelling and exacerbating conflict in the Great Lakes region. The presidential statement also recognised that insecurity resulting from the illegal exploitation and trade of natural resources negatively impact[s] conflict prevention, post-conflict peacebuilding, the consolidation of peace in countries in the Great Lakes region emerging from conflict and their post-conflict development, including education, health and economic opportunity. Individuals and entities can be designated under the Central African Republic (CAR) 2127 sanctions regime for providing support for armed groups or criminal networks through the illicit exploitation or trade of natural resources, including diamonds, gold, wildlife as well as wildlife products in or from the CAR. The Panel of Experts assisting the 2127 CAR Sanctions Committee has also documented instances of armed groups profiting from natural resource trafficking. Its latest midterm report, for example, found that the Patriotic Rally for the Renewal of the Central African Republic (RPRC) derived significant revenues from various forms of trafficking, including by selling diamonds (S/2022/527). In Mali, the Panel of Experts assisting the 2374 Sanctions Committee has focused on the mining of artisanal gold due, in part, to its connection to revenue generation for compliant and terrorist armed groups. In its final report for 2021 (S/2021/714), the Panel found that artisanal gold mining drives terrorist financing and the expansion of the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), an armed group active in northern Mali. Key Issues and Options A key issue for the Council is determining how to counter the financing of armed groups and terrorists through illicit trafficking in natural resources. One option for the Council is to consider whether there is a need to update the listing criteria for sanctions regimes in which illicit trafficking of natural resources is an issue. The Council could, for example, choose to add a listing criterion that applies to those who provide support to armed groups through illicit trade in natural resources to relevant sanctions regimes that do not currently have such a criterion, such as the 2374 Mali sanctions regime. The Council could also consider whether existing listing criteria relating to illicit trafficking of natural resources are fit for purpose and functioning as intended. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members are generally supportive of efforts to combat the illicit trade in natural resources. There are disagreements, however, regarding the use of sanctions to address the issue. These disagreements have existed among Council members for some time. During the 19 June 2013 open debate on conflict prevention and natural resources, for example, China and Russia both emphasised the importance of respecting state sovereignty and expressed scepticism regarding natural resource sanctions. Russia also blocked a proposed presidential statement arising from this meeting, apparently arguing that the topic falls outside the Councils mandate. More recently, China and Russia placed a hold on a US proposal to designate Belgian businessman Alain Goetz and companies affiliated with him under the 1533 DRC sanctions regime for their alleged involvement in illegal gold exports from the DRC. At the Councils 27 April briefing on the implementation of the 2013 Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and Great Lakes region, China argued that the relevant sanctions measures of the Security Council must not be misused, let alone become a tool for suppressing other political and commercial players. Gabon has a longstanding record of protecting its natural resources, which may help to explain its motivation for this meeting. It is one of the most forested countries in the world, with more than 88 percent of its surface area covered by rainforests, according to the UN Development Programme (UNDP). These rainforests are home to a rich variety of wildlife and Gabonese authorities have implemented a range of initiatives that are intended to protect its endangered fauna. Gabon has, for example, established 13 national parks since 2000 and also created an anti-poaching unit to patrol its rainforests in 2020. Gabon has also focused on illicit trade in wildlife in other UN fora. In July 2015, Gabon and Germany co-sponsored a General Assembly resolution on tackling illicit trafficking in wildlife. Among other matters, the resolution urged member states to take decisive steps at the national level to prevent, combat, and eradicate illegal trade in wildlife, and also called on member states to review and amend their national legislation with a view to ensuring that offences connected to illegal trade in wildlife are treated as predicate offences for domestic money laundering. SELECTED RELEVANT UN DOCUMENTS This was on the nexus between terrorism and international organised crime. This was a resolution on combatting the financing of terrorism. This was a resolution that addressed the role of transnational organised crime in supporting terrorism. This was a resolution on tackling illicit trafficking in wildlife. AFRICA Somalia Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council is expected to renew the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), which is set to expire on 31 October. The Chair of the 751 Somalia Sanctions Committee Fergal Mythen (Ireland) is also expected to brief the Council. The 751 Somalia sanctions regime expires on 15 November, and the mandate of the Panel of Experts supporting the 751 Somalia Sanctions Committee expires on 15 December. Key Recent Developments On 7 September, the Council received a briefing from Special Representative for Somalia and head of UNSOM James Swan, who explained the priorities laid out by the new government following the conclusion of the protracted Somali electoral process in May and expressed the UNs commitment to support these priorities. He also noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) released $350 million to Somalia in June and that other donors have also resumed budgetary support to the country. As part of his visit to Washington, DC in September, President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud reportedly met with the managing director of the IMF and the president of the World Bank Group to mobilise support from the international financial institutions for his governments reform efforts as well as the humanitarian response to the drought in Somalia. Swan recognised the encouraging steps taken by Mahmoud to improve relations between the federal government and the federal member states. On 11-12 September, Mahmoud reportedly convened the National Consultative Council with the participation of federal member state leaders to discuss efforts aimed at addressing the security and humanitarian situations in the country and enhancing cooperation between the federal government and federal member states on the implementation of national priorities. However, there have also been some setbacks recently, such as the decision by federal member states to suspend cooperation with the federal ministry of finance in relation to disputes over allocation of financial resources. This move apparently followed the World Banks release in July of a $100 million grant to Somalia in support of the reform efforts. The federal member states have also raised issues regarding the delay in the disbursement of a $9.6 million donation by the United Arab Emirates to assist relief efforts. Furthermore, in a 15 September press release, Puntland State opposed the implementation of the Somalia Petroleum Act 2020, which it said had been approved by the parliament without consultation with the federal member states. The persistent threat posed by the armed group Al-Shabaab continues to be a major preoccupation for Somalia and the international community. In his 7 September Council briefing, Swan noted the importance the new government places on the fight against Al-Shabaab. According to an 11 September government press release, Somali security forces have retaken control of several towns and villages in Galmudug, Hirshabelle and South West States from Al-Shabaab, with the support of the local population. On 20 September, Somali security forces reportedly captured a strategic village in Hiiraan, Hirshabelle State, which is said to have been under Al-Shabaab control for the last 13 years. During his visit to Washington, Mahmoud met with senior US government officials, including the secretaries of state and defence, to garner support for these latest counter-terrorism operations by Somali security forces. In a 21 September press release, the US Africa Command said it had conducted airstrikes against Al-Shabaab on 18 September near Buulobarde, in the Hiiraan region, upon the request of the Somali federal government. Resolution 2628 of 31 March requested the UN to submit a proposal for benchmarks and indicators by the end of September to measure the effectiveness of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the implementation of the Somali Transition Plan and National Security Architecture. This proposal is to be prepared in consultation with the Somali government, the AU, the EU and other donors. Swan reported to the Security Council that work on the benchmarks and indicators is advancing. He expressed concern, however, over funding constraints for ATMIS salary stipends and for the Somali Security Forces Trust Fund. He appealed for urgent contributions from donors to address this challenge. Pursuant to resolution 2632 of 26 May, which requested the Secretary-General to undertake a strategic review of UNSOM, a team under the leadership of Ian Martin, former Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), visited Somalia and Ethiopia between 1 and 9 August to conduct consultations with the Somali federal government, regional states, UN agencies, the AU, ATMIS, women and youth civil society representatives, and international partners. The teams report was also expected by the end of September and is likely to inform UNSOMs mandate renewal process in October. Somalia is facing its worst drought in four decades. The drought has affected 7.8 million peoplenearly half of the Somali populationand led to the displacement of more than one million. In his 7 September briefing to the Council, Swan described the efforts by humanitarian actors to provide assistance to 5.3 million Somalis despite challenges to humanitarian access. Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths visited the country for five days in early September to assess the situation on the ground and meet with federal and regional authorities, affected communities, and partners. In his 15 September Council briefing on conflict and food insecurity, Griffiths said that if we want Somalia to survive the famines that will come, late this year and into next year, we need attention from the climate communityfrom Member States who have pledged money, all of which has not reached its destination. Sanctions-Related Development The Panel of Experts assisting the 751 Somalia Sanctions Committee is expected to submit its final report by 15 October. Pursuant to resolution 2607 of 15 November 2021, the Secretary-General has already submitted a technical assessment of Somalias weapons and ammunition management capability. The assessment is likely to inform the upcoming negotiation on the extension of the 751 Somalia sanctions regime in November. Human Rights-Related Developments During its 51st session, the Human Rights Council is expected to hold an interactive dialogue on 5 October on the report of the independent expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia, Isha Dyfan (A/HRC/51/65). The report, covering 1 July 2021 to 30 June, provided an update on progress achieved to date by Somali authorities on seven key benchmarks, including protection of civilians, rule of law, freedom of expression and assembly, and womens and childrens rights. Unfortunately, delayed elections left no room for progress on these issues, the report concluded. Key Issues and Options The key issue for Council members in October is how to support the newly elected government of Somalia in implementing its national priorities. In this regard, Council members may draw on the outcome of the UNSOM strategic review due by the end of September. A possible option is for Council members to extend UNSOMs mandate for one year and request the mission to align its support to the governments priorities. Furthermore, Council members could be keen to look at the benchmarks and indicators for the effectiveness of ATMIS and the implementation of the Somali Transition Plan and National Security Architecture. The penholder, the UK, could consider convening an informal meeting of Council members to discuss the outcome of the strategic review and the benchmark exercise ahead of negotiations on UNSOMs mandate renewal. Council Dynamics Council members support the governments priorities and look forward to the upcoming UNSOM mandate renewal in October. They also recognise the many challenges facing the country, including the persistent insecurity caused by the terrorist activities of Al-Shabaab, and support ongoing efforts to fight this group. However, some members believe that a security approach will not be sufficient, and underscore the need to make progress in governance, justice and economic reforms. Other Council members emphasise the need for progress in implementing the Somali Transition Plan, including national force generation, and look forward to clear and realistic benchmarks and indicators requested by resolution 2628. African members and China have raised the funding challenge facing ATMIS and called for adequate, sustainable and predictable financing for the mission. UN DOCUMENTS ON SOMALIA This resolution extended the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) until 31 October 2022. This was the Secretary-Generals report on the situation in Somalia covering developments from 1 February to 13 May. This was a briefing on the situation in Somalia. Status Update since our September Forecast UN Peacekeeping On 7 September, the Security Council held a briefing on peacekeeping reform (S/PV.9123). Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix briefed the Security Council on resolution 2378 on peacekeeping reform, as well as the progress and challenges of implementing the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) and the Action for Peacekeeping Plus (A4P+) initiatives. He highlighted difficulties facing UN peace operations, including attacks on peacekeepers using improvised explosive devices, misinformation and disinformation against peace operations, and violations of Status of Forces Agreements. Sudan On 13 September, the Security Council held an open briefing, followed by closed consultations, on the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (S/PV.9129). Special Representative and head of UNITAMS Volker Perthes briefed on the Secretary-Generals 90-day report (S/2022/667). Ibrahim Mudawi, the President of the Sudan Social Development Organization, briefed as well. Also on 13 September, the Council received the quarterly briefing by the chair of the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee, Ambassador Harold Adlai Agyeman (Ghana), on the committees work (S/PV.9128). Iraq (UNITAD) On 1 September, Council members issued a press statement condemning the violence throughout Iraq on 29 and 30 August (SC/15016). Among other matters, the press statement appealed for calm and restraint and urged all parties to avoid violence, peacefully resolve their political differences, and respect the rule of law, the right of peaceful assembly, and Iraqi institutions. On 15 September, the Council unanimously adopted resolution 2651, which renewed the mandate of the UN Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by ISIL/Daesh (UNITAD) for one year, until 17 September 2023. Armenia/Azerbaijan Border Clashes On 14 September, Security Council members held a meeting under any other business to discuss the clashes that erupted along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border on the night of 12-13 September. A ceasefire was brokered by Russia on the morning of 13 September; however, fighting continued. France requested the meeting, citing a 13 September letter to the Security Council by Armenia that called for an emergency Council meeting on the matter (S/2022/688). Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas Miroslav Jenca briefed. The Council also held an open briefing on the issue on 15 September, during which Jenca again briefed (S/PV.9132). The situation along the border stabilised after another ceasefire was brokered by Russia on the morning of 15 September. According to media reports, 135 Armenian soldiers and 77 Azerbaijani troops were killed in the fighting, marking the worst outbreak of hostilities between the two countries since 2020. Protection of Civilians: Conflict and Food Security On 15 September, the Council held a briefing on armed conflict and food security, under the Protection of civilians in armed conflict agenda item (S/PV.9133). Brazil and Ireland, the Councils focal points on conflict and hunger, requested the meeting following OCHAs 26 August white note that provides an update on food insecurity due to conflict and violence in northern Ethiopia, northeast Nigeria, South Sudan, and Yemen. The Council heard briefings by Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths, World Food Programme Executive Director David Beasley, and Food and Agricultural Organization Chief Economist Maximo Torero Cullen. Myanmar On 16 September, Council members held closed consultations to receive a briefing from the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General on Myanmar, Noeleen Heyzer, on her recent visits to Myanmar and Bangladesh. She briefed members on her meeting with General Min Aung Hlaingthe commander-in-chief of the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and the chairman of the State Administration Council (SAC), the de facto authority in Myanmaron 17 August, as well as her meetings and visit to the Rohingya refugee camp in Coxs Bazaar during her four-day visit to Bangladesh. In her briefing, Heyzer provided details of her meetings and elaborated on her decision to visit Myanmar despite not being able to meet with all parties. She also highlighted the escalating violence in Rakhine State. Following reports of attacks on 16 September by military helicopters in Myanmar, which apparently left 15 children missing and 11 children and 12 adults dead, Norway circulated a draft press statement on the attack. However, several members were unable to agree to the draft. The UK circulated a draft resolution at the end of September on various aspects of the situation in Myanmar. South Sudan On 16 September, the Security Council held an open briefing, followed by closed consultations, on the UN Mission in South Sudan (S/PV.9134). Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan and head of UNMISS Nicholas Haysom briefed on the Secretary-Generals 90-day report (S/2022/689). A civil society representative, Lilian Riziq, President of the South Sudan Womens Empowerment Network, also briefed. Afghanistan On 3 September, Council members issued a press statement condemning the continued terrorist attacks in Afghanistan, including the 2 September attack against the Guzargh mosque in Herat that killed at least 18 people and injured several more (SC/15018). On 6 September, Council members issued a press statement condemning the 5 September terrorist attack outside the embassy of the Russian Federation in Kabul. The attack was claimed by Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP), an entity affiliated with Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Daesh), and resulted in the deaths of at least six people, including two employees of the Russian embassy, and injured several more (SC/15021). On 27 September, the Council convened for an open briefing, followed by closed consultations, on Afghanistan (S/PV.9137). The briefers were Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan Markus Potzel; Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Ghada Fathi Waly; and Fawzia Koofi, a womens rights activist and former speaker of the parliament of Afghanistan. Democratic Republic of the Congo On 30 September, the Security Council held a briefing and consultations on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Council was briefed by: Bintou Keita, the Special Representative and head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO); the Chair of the 1533 DRC Sanctions Committee, Ambassador Michel Xavier Biang (Gabon); and Emery Mudinga, Director of the Angaza Institute based in Bukavu, DRC. Representatives of the DRC, Burundi and Rwanda also participated in the meeting under rule 37 of the provisional rules of procedure of the Council. Keita briefed the Council on the developments in DRC and the activities of MONUSCO based on the latest report of the Secretary-General (S/2022/709) published on 22 September. Biang explained the work of the 1533 DRC Sanctions Committee. Mudinga shed light on the effects of illegal exploitation of natural resources in DRC AFRICA Sudan/South Sudan Expected Council Action In October, the Council expects to receive a briefing on the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of the mandate of the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), due by 14 October, as requested in resolution 2630. Consultations will follow the briefing. The mandate of UNISFA and the missions support for the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JBVMM) expire on 15 November. Background and Key Recent Developments For more than ten years, the governments of Sudan and South Sudan have made no significant progress in resolving the final status of Abyei, the disputed area along the Sudan-South Sudan border. In the recent past, Sudan and South Sudan have been more focused on their internal situations following the 25 October 2021 military coup in Sudan and political challenges in South Sudan. On 22 September, local media sources reported that Sudan and South Sudan had resumed direct talks over the final status of Abyei. The overall security situation in Abyei has been relatively calm in recent months, but significant humanitarian needs persist as well as intercommunal tensions, the presence of armed elements, displacement, and economic challenges. On 14 September, local media sources reported that thousands of Abyei residents demonstrated peacefully demanding autonomy from both Sudan and South Sudan, and that community leaders handed over a petition with their demands to UNISFA. On 26 September, UNISFA released a statement expressing alarm over renewed clashes between the Twik and Ngok Dinka communities in Agok, near Abyei town. UNISFA continues to face challenges in implementing its mandate, including the need to appoint a civilian deputy head of mission (as requested by the Council in May 2019). Last year, tensions in the region affected the mission, with public calls by Sudan for the replacement of all Ethiopian UN troops. Since the missions establishment in 2011 until earlier this year, Ethiopia had been its sole troop-contributing country. The Secretary-Generals most recent report, covering 16 October 2021 to 15 April, noted that the Ethiopian contingent departed Abyei on 10 April and was in the process of being replaced by troops from Ghana, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. The Council renewed UNISFAs mandate until 15 November with the unanimous adoption of resolution 2630 on 12 May. The resolution did not make any changes to the forces mandate or structure. (For more, see our Whats in Blue story of 11 May.) The Council was last briefed on Abyei on 21 April by Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix and Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Hanna Serwaa Tetteh. Lacroix reported that, since October 2021, intercommunal violence had resulted in the deaths of 29 people and that the humanitarian situation had deteriorated. There had been no progress on the deployment of the three formed police units mandated by the Council, he said. Key Issues and Options A key issue for the Council leading up to UNISFAs renewal in November is what modifications to make, if any, to the mandate and force structure. A likely option is for Council members to consider the findings and recommendations of the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of UNISFAs mandate, due by 14 October. The report is expected to provide updates on several long-standing issues, in particular: progress on the deployment of police; the appointment of a civilian deputy head of mission; usage of the Athony airstrip, which is crucial for medical evacuations; and the issuance of visas to support implementation of the mandate. Council Dynamics Council members agree on the important roles that UNISFA and the JBVMM play in support of achieving peace, security and stability in Abyei and the broader region. Many members are critical of the lack of progress by Sudan and South Sudan in resolving the final status of Abyei. It seems that negotiations on resolution 2630 were generally smooth, given that Council members apparently agreed that there was no need to update UNISFAs mandate and configuration. The penholder, the US, apparently sought to have a straightforward renewal without making substantial changes to allow UNISFA to adjust to its reconfiguration, following the replacement of Ethiopian troops. Discussions during the negotiations centred on such issues as human rights reporting; humanitarian access; quick-impact projects for UNISFA; and language on women, peace and security. (For more, see our Whats in Blue story of 11 May.) In a statement following the adoption of resolution 2630, Russia referred to its proposal during the negotiations to add language on quick-impact projects and expressed regret that the penholder did not include this in the resolution. It seems that Moscow had also raised this issue during Council members latest closed consultations on UNISFA, which took place on 21 April. Other members apparently felt that such an issue should be discussed in the General Assemblys Fifth Committee and should not be addressed in a Security Council resolution. Russia apparently broke silence because its suggested language on quick-impact projects was not included in the first amended draft. However, this language was ultimately not incorporated in the draft text in blue. The US is the penholder on Abyei. UN DOCUMENTS ON SUDAN/SOUTH SUDAN This resolution renewed the mandate of UNISFA until 15 November 2022. This was on the situation in Abyei. This was the meeting to adopt resolution 2630. This was a briefing on UNISFA and Sudan/South Sudan. MIDDLE EAST Syria Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council is expected to hold a briefing, possibly followed by consultations, on political and humanitarian developments in Syria. Consultations on the use of chemical weapons in Syria are also expected to be held this month. Key Recent Developments With the political process at a standstill, Syria continues to be mired in a security, humanitarian and economic crisis. More than a decade of conflict, rising food prices, fuel shortages, water scarcity, and a recent cholera outbreak in the north of the country are among the factors exacerbating the living conditions of ordinary Syrians. OCHA estimates that some 14.6 million Syrians are in need of humanitarian assistance. On 18 August, artillery fire hit a market in the opposition-held city of Al-Bab in northwest Syria, killing 17 civilians and injuring 35 others. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based human rights monitoring organisation, accused the Syrian government of the attack. Rising numbers of civilians are also dying from the explosive remnants of conflict. Three children were killed by a landmine on farmland in Homs in the western part of the country on 4 September, and another four children died when ordnance detonated in an abandoned apartment in Idlib in northwest Syria on 5 September. In a 6 September statement, the humanitarian organisation Save the Children said that at least 22 people, including seven children, had reportedly been killed as a result of the explosion of landmines and other ordnance in the previous four months. On 17 September, Israeli air strikes reportedly hit Damascus International Airport and other areas near the Syrian capital. Syria has reported that five of its soldiers died in the strikes. Media reports have suggested that the motivation for these strikes was to curtail the delivery of weapons through flights to militia supported by Iran, including Hezbollah. A delivery of humanitarian assistance across conflict lines in Syria took place on 17 September from Aleppo into northwest Syria. According to OCHA, the inter-agency convoy delivered 453 metric tonnes of food, nutrition, water and sanitation items, health kits, female dignity kits and other supplies to the World Food Programme warehouses into Idlib governate. This was the seventh delivery of cross-line aid since an inter-agency plan was created for such deliveries following the Councils adoption of resolution 2585 in July 2021. On 2 August, the Secretary-General submitted a report to the General Assembly on missing persons in Syria, pursuant to a December 2021 General Assembly resolution. The report underscored the difficulties families face in finding information about the status and whereabouts of relatives who have reportedly been arbitrarily detained or forcibly disappeared. Among the reports recommendations were the following: the need for the conflict parties to adhere to their obligations under international law and release arbitrarily detained persons; the need for member states to increase efforts to support victims, survivors, and the families of the missing, including by establishing a trust fund; and the establishment of a new international entity through the General Assembly to clarify the fate and whereabouts of missing persons in Syria and provide adequate support to victims, survivors and the families of those missing, including through the establishment of a trust fund. On 14 September, the Security Council held a briefing on the political and security situation in Syria. The briefers were Deputy Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria Najat Rochdi, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths, and Mazen Darwish, the director of the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression. Rochdi underscored the importance of a nationwide ceasefire as an underlying objective of the political process in Syria. She expressed concern about ongoing reports of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance and kidnapping for ransom in Syria, and advocated the establishment of a new international entity to deal with such matters, as outlined in the Secretary-Generals 2 August report to the General Assembly. Griffiths appealed for more financial support for OCHAs Syria humanitarian response plan, noting that only about a quarter of the $4.4 billion plan for 2022 had been funded. Darwish, like Rochdi, expressed support for the creation of an international body to address challenges related to missing persons in Syria. He also favourably referenced veto restraint initiatives, calling on permanent members to disavow the use of the veto to block action to prevent mass atrocities. On 26 September, Security Council members held an informal interactive dialogue on Syria in accordance with resolution 2642 of 12 July, which renewed the Syria cross-border aid mechanism for six months with a further six-month extension subject to a new resolution. Adopted after difficult negotiations, this resolution encouraged the Security Council to convene an Informal Interactive Dialogue (IID) every two months with participation of donors, interested regional parties and representatives of the international humanitarian agencies operating in Syria. The purpose of the IIDs is to review and follow up on the resolutions implementation, including with regard to early recovery projects. Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths briefed during the IID. He reportedly underscored the importance of the cross-border aid mechanism, and described progress being made with regard to cross-line aid deliveries and early recovery projects. He also reiterated his concern about the shortage of funds to support the humanitarian response in Syria. Griffiths and other OCHA officials discussed the recruitment and procurement challenges of implementing a six-month mandate, as opposed to a one-year mandate, for the Syria humanitarian aid resolution. Key Issues and Options A key issue for the Council is how it can reinvigorate the political track in Syria. The humanitarian and economic crises in the country are also ongoing issues of concern for Council members. One option for the Council is to adopt a presidential statement that: supports UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersons efforts to reinvigorate the political process; and encourages donors to enhance their support for the Syria humanitarian response plan. An additional option in the future would be a Council visiting mission to the Bab al-Hawa crossing on the Syria-Turkiye border. On such a visit, Council members could meet with UN and other officials responsible for implementing and overseeing the cross-border aid delivery mechanism to get a better understanding of how it works and its importance in addressing the countrys humanitarian crisis. Council Dynamics Strong divisions persist in the Council on Syria. China and Russia tend to be sympathetic to the Syrian government, emphasising the need to respect the countrys sovereignty and territorial integrity and drawing connections between unilateral sanctions on Syria and the challenging humanitarian situation in the country. On the other hand, the P3 (France, the UK and the US) and others are highly critical of the government for violating international human rights law and international humanitarian law, arbitrarily detaining people, and not engaging meaningfully in political dialogue. Most Council members are strongly supportive of the cross-border mechanism, arguing that cross-line assistance alone cannot address the scope of humanitarian needs in Syria. China and Russia have been less supportive of the mechanism than other members. They have expressed concern about cross-border aid being diverted by terrorist groups, emphasised that the cross-border aid mechanism constitutes a violation of Syrias sovereignty, and argued that it needs to be phased out and replaced by enhanced cross-line deliveries. Ireland and Norway are the penholders on humanitarian issues in Syria. UN DOCUMENTS ON SYRIA This resolution reauthorised the cross-border humanitarian aid mechanism in Syria for six months until 10 January 2023 and required a separate resolution to extend the mandate for an additional six months until 10 July 2023. This was a briefing on the political and humanitarian situations in Syria on 14 September 2022. The Middle East, including the Palestinian Question Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council expects to hold its quarterly open debate on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland is expected to brief. Key Recent Developments Israeli caretaker Prime Minister Yair Lapid and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the 77th UN General Assembly (UNGA) high-level segment on 22 and 23 September, respectively. In line with the position he had expressed during US President Joe Bidens July visit to Israel and the West Bank, Lapid reiterated his support for the two-state solution. He added, however, that this is conditional on the future Palestinian state not becoming another terror base from which to threaten the well-being and the very existence of Israel and on Israel having the ability to protect the security of its citizens at all times. He also said that Israel is ready to lift the restrictions on Gaza and build its economy, provided that the firing of rockets and missiles ends, among other conditions. Abbas said that Israel has undermined the Oslo Accords and, through its policies, is destroying the two-state solution, adding that Israel is enacting racist laws consecrating the apartheid regime. Abbas said that, although the US and several European states have called for the two-state solution and recognised Israel, they have not recognised the State of Palestine, and reiterated his request for full UN membership. While Abbas said that Lapids reference to the two-state solution was a positive development, he stressed that the true test for the credibility of this stance would be for Israel to go back to negotiations immediately and to end all unilateral actions that are undermining the two-state solution. While in New York, Abbas and Lapid both met with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and King Abdullah II of Jordan but did not meet each other. Lapid met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which marked the first meeting in 14 years between a prime minister of Israel and the Turkish president. Lapid also met with UK Prime Minister Liz Truss who, according to a Downing Street statement, informed Lapid of her review of the current location of the British Embassy in Israel. (The embassy is located in Tel Aviv.) The announcement was met with consternation by Palestinian Ambassador to the UK Husam Zomlot, who wrote on Twitter that any move of the embassy would be a blatant violation of international law, undermine the two-state solution, and enflame an already volatile situation. (In a highly controversial move, former US President Donald Trump moved the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 2018.) The Security Council last held a meeting on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question on 28 September. Wennesland provided an oral report on the implementation of resolution 2334, which was adopted in 2016. Wennesland said that during the reporting period (17 June-20 September), settlement activities continued and called on Israel to immediately cease such activities. The deteriorating security situation in the West Bank was another focus of the meeting. Wennesland said that the high number of Palestinians killed and injured by Israeli security forces in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, remains deeply troubling, particularly reports that some did not appear to pose threats and stressed that Israeli security forces must use lethal force only when unavoidable. Wennesland also condemned all acts of terrorism against civilians, including the 14 August attack targeting Jewish worshippers near Jerusalems Old City. He commended Lapids reaffirmation of commitment to the two-state solution and acknowledged Abbas continued commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The Ad-Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC) met at ministerial level on the sidelines of the UNGA high-level segment on 22 September. The report prepared for the AHLC meeting by the UN Office of the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO) identified four strategic elements that, if implemented, would maintain the viability of the two-State solution until formal negotiations restart. Among other steps, these elements include addressing the conflicts drivers, strengthening Palestinian institutions, and creating space for the Palestinian economy to grow. At the same time, the report said that only the end of the occupation and the attainment of two states will lead to Palestinians achieving their full socioeconomic development potential and their legitimate national aspirations. (The AHLC is a 15-member committee that coordinates development assistance to the Palestinian people at policy level and is chaired by Council member Norway.) Parliamentary elections in Israel are expected to take place on 1 November after the governing collation co-headed by Lapid and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett decided to dissolve the Knesset in June. (For background, see our July Forecast.) Human Rights-Related Developments In her 12 September global update statement to open the 51st session of the Human Rights Council, acting High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada al-Nashif stressed the disturbing increase in the number of Palestinians, including children, killed and injured by Israeli forces in the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt) and the widespread use of live ammunition in law enforcement operations in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Among other issues, Al-Nashif noted the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)s investigation of the 11 May killing of Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh and the injuring of her colleague Ali Sammoudi and called for a criminal investigation compliant with international law standards. On 5 September, the IDF investigation concluded that while there is a high possibility that Abu Akleh was accidentally hit by IDF gunfire, there is no suspicion of a criminal offense that justifies the opening of a Military Police investigation. On 20 September, members of Abu Aklehs family submitted a complaint to the International Criminal Court containing the results of an investigation into the killing conducted by research agency Forensic Architecture and Palestinian NGO al-Haq, which concluded that Shireen and her fellow journalists were deliberately and repeatedly targeted, with an aim to kill. Women, Peace and Security On 24 June, the Informal Experts Group (IEG) on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) held its first meeting on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. Wennesland briefed. According to the meetings summary released in July, several members asked for more gender analysis in UN reports to the Security Council. As the IEG Secretariat, UN Women made several recommendations, including providing flexible funding for womens rights organisations and ensuring that funding remains accessible in an increasingly restricted civic space. UN Women also recommended that the IEG co-chairs (Ireland and Mexico) and other members include WPS references in their statements during Council meetings on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question and request the inclusion of a gender analysis in briefings by UN officials. Another recommendation was to advocate for the prompt investigation and prosecution of violations against women and girls by state and non-state actors in the oPt and at checkpoints. Key Issues and Options The main issue for the Security Council remains finding ways to support the resumption of political negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis to move towards a resolution of the conflict and achieve a two-state solution. However, concrete steps towards this objective have been absent. Other ongoing issues include avoiding new escalations of violence (such as in the increasingly volatile West Bank), the expansion of Israeli settlements, and other developments that undermine the viability of a two-state solution. During the 25 August meeting on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, several members raised concerns regarding the situation of the six Palestinian NGOs that Israel designated as terrorist organisations in 2021. (For background, see our 7 November 2021 and 24 August Whats in Blue stories.) France, Ireland and Norway said that the evidence provided by Israel for the designation was insufficient. Ireland expressed serious concerns about the misuse of counter-terror legislation to reduce civil-society space in the oPt. An option would be to convene an Arria-formula meeting on the effects of using counter-terror measures to close civil society space in the oPt and other contexts. Members could invite as a briefer Fionnuala Ni Aolain, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism. A more substantive and consistent integration of a gender analysis in UN reporting and in the regular monthly discussions on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question is an issue of interest for some Council members. The IEG co-chairs, and other members who pledged to make WPS a top priority by endorsing the 1 December 2021 statement of shared commitments on WPS, may consider reiterating their interest in integrating a gender analysis in UN reporting on this file. Council Dynamics Council members regularly express support for a two-state solution. With varying degrees of emphasis, members have also repeatedly called for an end to settlement activities and to demolitions of Palestinian civilian structures, and the preservation of the status quo at the holy sites as key steps to preserve the viability of the two-state solution. At the same time, while there is ostensible agreement on the importance of these issues, no concrete steps have been taken to restart the peace process. While supporting the two-state solution, the US seems to be of the view that the current circumstances are not ripe for the restart of negotiations. At the 25 August meeting on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, Russia accused the US of monopolising the peace process, of imposing economic peace on the Palestinian people, and of blocking the activities of the Middle East Quartetwhich consists of the EU, Russia, the UN, and the US. Russia reiterated a similar message at the 28 September meeting. During the September meeting, China said that the Council should promote the resumption of talks instead of waiting for the so-called conditions for dialogue to mature. Seemingly in reference to the likelihood that the US would oppose a Palestinian request for full UN membership at the Council, China further said that on issues concerning the future and fate of the Palestinian people, no one has the right to veto. UN DOCUMENTS ON THE MIDDLE EAST, INCLUDING THE PALESTINIAN QUESTION This was a resolution that condemned Israeli settlements and was adopted with 14 votes in favour and a US abstention. This was the summary of the IEGs 24 June meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. EUROPE Ukraine Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council may hold one or more meetings on the situation in Ukraine, depending on developments on the ground. Key Recent Developments A shift in battlefield momentum favouring Ukraine and Moscows political reprisals marked a new phase of the war in Ukraine in the first half of September. Towards the end of the month, Russia formally annexed portions of Ukraine. After capturing the city of Balakliya in the eastern Kharkiv region on 6 September, the Ukrainian army launched an extensive counteroffensive to retake Russian-held territory in the Kharkiv region. The operation forced Russian troops to retreat into the Luhansk region and establish a new defensive front line along the Oskil River. In a 13 September address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukrainian forces had recaptured roughly 8,000 square kilometres in the eastern Kharkiv region and the southern Kherson region. In apparent retaliation for Ukraines battlefield gains, Russia launched a series of missile attacks targeting critical infrastructure, including energy facilities and water systems. Given the extent of damage to Ukraines civilian infrastructure and loss of personal property resulting from the war, Zelenskyy announced on 21 September plans to establish an international compensation mechanism to register damages arising from Russias invasion of Ukraine. It appears that a draft General Assembly resolution recommending the creation of such a mechanism may be tabled by Ukraine in October. On 21 September, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to conduct referendums from 23 to 27 September in the Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions and to partially mobilise military reserves to support Russias war effort in Ukraine. Putins announcements prompted Albania and the US to request a Security Council meeting, held on 27 September, to discuss what they consider a Russian escalation of the conflict. (For more information, see our 26 September Whats in Blue story.) On 30 September, Putin signed treaties formally annexing the four regions. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a strong retort to Moscow during a press briefing the previous day. Noting that Russias annexation has no legal value and that it flouts the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, Guterres stressed that Moscows escalation deserves to be condemned[and] must not be accepted. Albania and the US tabled a draft Security Council resolution on 30 September. The draft text condemned Russias referendums, noting that they had not been authorised by Kyiv, and declared that any actions taken by Russia on the basis of the referendums, including annexation of its occupied regions in Ukraine, have no validity. In this regard, the draft resolution called on all member states to not recognise any change to the status of the regions. The draft resolution failed to be adopted because of a Russian veto. It received ten votes in favour, one against (Russia) and four abstentions (Brazil, China, Gabon, and India). Albania and the US, together with other member states, are expected to present a similar draft resolution at the General Assembly in October. Hostilities continue to affect the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in the city of Enerhodar. On 6 September, the Security Council held an open briefing on the ZNPP, during which International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi called for the establishment of a nuclear safety and security protection zone. (For more information, see our 6 September Whats in Blue story.) On 15 September, the IAEA Board of Governors adopted a resolution deploring Russias persistent violent actions against nuclear facilities in Ukraine and calling on Russia immediately to cease all actions against the ZNPP. Human-Rights Related Developments On 15 September, mass graves containing hundreds of bodies were found in the north-eastern city of Izium, which was recaptured during Ukraines recent counteroffensive. Ukrainian authorities exhuming the bodies have found evidence of atrocities, including signs of torture. On 16 September, the UN announced that its Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) would investigate the mass graves for possible signs of atrocities. During its 51st session, the Human Rights Council (HRC) received an oral update on 23 September from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry (COI) on Ukraine, followed by an interactive dialogue. In his oral update, COI Chair Erik Mse confirmed that the commission has concluded that war crimes have been committed in Ukraine, citing accounts of sexual violence and indiscriminate killing and torture of civilians by Russian forces. The COI also processed two incidents of ill-treatment against [Russian] soldiers. On 4 October, the HRC will hold an interactive dialogue at which interim High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al Nasheef is expected to make an oral presentation of the findings of the periodic report of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on the situation of human rights in Ukraine. The Security Council remains actively engaged on the human rights situation in Ukraine. On 7 September, the Council held an open briefing on reports of the forced displacement of Ukrainian civilians and the use of filtration operations by Russian and Russian-affiliated forces. On 22 September, the Council held its first high-level briefing on Ukraine, which focused on the fight against impunity. (For more information, see our 7 September and 21 September Whats in Blue stories.) Key Issues and Options A key issue for the Security Council is how to facilitate an end to the conflict. Agreement on Council products on Ukraine is difficult because of the direct involvement of a permanent member in the conflict and members sharply diverging positions on the issue. Council members may wish to narrow the focus of Council products in order to minimise room for disagreement. The only product on Ukraine adopted by the Council since the start of the wara presidential statement expressing support for the Secretary-Generals efforts in search of a peaceful solution to the warconsists of four paragraphs. Russias heightened rhetoric concerning the use of nuclear weapons is another important issue for the Council. Council members may wish to seek a briefing by the Under-Secretary-General of Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu to discuss this issue and recommit to the non-use of nuclear weapons. A related issue is the need to promote the safety and security of nuclear facilities in Ukraine. Periodic briefings from Grossi could help to keep the Council informed of ongoing risks and efforts to mitigate the potential for an accident. Council members could encourage the Secretary-General to use his good offices to encourage talks between the parties on this issue, with the goal of demilitarising the area around the ZNPP and other nuclear facilities. Another important issue for the Council is how to support the renewal of the 22 July Black Sea Grain Initiative, which is set to expire on 19 November. The initiative was signed by Russia as part of a package that included a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the UNs scope of engagement to facilitate unimpeded exports of Russian food products and fertilisers to global markets. Russia has criticised the MoUs implementation and has threatened not to renew the grain initiative when it expires. In this regard, Council members may wish to convene a private or closed Arria-formula meeting to allow for a frank exchange of ideas between Council members and key actors in the banking, insurance and transportation sectors. Council Dynamics The Security Council remains starkly divided on the situation in Ukraine, with Russia justifying its invasion, which it refers to as a special military operation, while several Council membersincluding Albania, France, Ireland, Norway, the UK, and the USare firmly intent on condemning Russia for what they consider an unprovoked war. Apparently united in condemning Russia in the days following its intervention in Ukraine, divisions between the US and the European members, on the one hand, and other members, on the other hand, have become more pronounced in recent months. The US and European members have argued that supporting Ukraine is about protecting the rules-based international order wherein no member state can redraw the borders of another by force. These members have consistently called for supporting Ukraine while politically and economically isolating Russia. Other Council members, however, have increasingly cautioned that doing so risks limiting the prospects of a negotiated settlement between the parties. These membersincluding Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)contend that the Councils priority should be to establish conditions for the parties to engage in diplomatic negotiations. In this regard, they frequently call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and return to dialogue, without explicitly condemning Russia. Of these members, China and India have been the most reluctant to criticise Russia in the Council, although outside the Council, President Xi Jinping of China and President Narendra Modi of India have signalled concerns about the conflict. Several of these members have also signalled discontent with the Councils inability to encourage diplomatic engagement. The US and European members have argued that decisions concerning the terms of negotiations should be made exclusively by the parties. These members also emphasise that any immediate cessation of hostilities must be conditioned on the immediate and complete Russian military withdrawal from Ukrainian territory. Absent this condition, they argue, a cessation of hostilities would freeze the battleground on terms favourable to Russia, which has forcefully occupied nearly 15 percent of Ukraines territory. At the 22 September briefing, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that a peaceful settlement should be on just terms, without imposing on Ukraine a settlement that cuts against the UN Charter or rewards Russia for violating it. Russia has accused the US and European Council members of fighting a proxy war in Ukraine with the ultimate aim of weakening Russia. It argues that by pumping weapons into Ukraine, these members are party to the conflict. On 8 September, at Russias request, the Council held an open briefing on the issue of Western weapons supplies to Ukraine. More recently, following the 26 September incident that caused physical damage to the Nord Stream pipelines in the Baltic Sea, Russia insinuated that the US was involved in the apparent act of sabotage, which the US categorically denied. At Russias request, the Council held an open briefing on 30 September to discuss this incident, during which Russia stressed that if involvement of certain states in those terrorist attacks is proven, this will mean deliberate escalation of the conflict. UN DOCUMENTS ON UKRAINE This was a briefing on Ukraine, requested by Russia, which focused on the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. This was a briefing on Ukraine, requested by Albania and the US, which focused on forced displacements, deportations and filtration camps in Ukraine. This was a briefing on Ukraine, requested by Russia, which focused on the supply of Western weapons to Ukraine. This was a ministerial-level briefing on Ukraine titled The Fight Against Impunity in Ukraine. SECURITY COUNCIL AND WIDER UN STRUCTURE UN-AU Cooperation Expected Council Action In October, the Council is expected to hold the annual debate on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations, focusing on the AU. The Gabonese foreign minister, Michael Moussa-Adamo, is expected to chair the meeting. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Chairperson of the AU Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat are the anticipated briefers. A presidential statement is a possible outcome. Background and Key Recent Developments On 28 October 2021, the Council held its annual debate on UN-AU cooperation via videoconference (VTC). Uhuru Kenyatta, the president of Kenya at the time, chaired the meeting. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and AU High Representative for Financing of the Union and the Peace Fund Donald Kaberuka briefed the Council. The Security Council adopted a presidential statement proposed by Kenya that stressed the need to further develop the UN-AU partnership into a systematic, operational and strategic partnership rooted in shared values and a strong commitment to multilateralism. During its October Council presidency, Gabon intends to highlight the UN-AU cooperation on peace and security in Africa by focusing the annual debate on the Secretary-Generals report on Strengthening the partnership between the UN and the AU on issues of peace and security in Africa, including on the work of the UN Office to the AU (UNOAU). The latest report, published on 25 August, provided updates on the implementation of the Joint UN-AU Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security. It covered the activities carried out by UNOAU and the UN system since the previous report on 30 August 2021. It also discussed efforts to implement Security Council resolution 2320 of 18 November 2016 on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations, resolution 2378 of 20 September 2017 on peacekeeping reform, and resolution 2457 of 27 February 2019 on silencing the guns in Africa. Preparations are also underway to hold the 16th annual joint consultative meeting between the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) on 14 October. The annual meeting rotates between New York and Addis Ababa, the home of the AU headquarters; the meeting will be held in New York in 2022. The Security Council proposed several agenda items for the meeting, including the situations in West Africa and the Sahel and in the Great Lakes region, as well as the use of sanctions in conflict situations in Africa. This meeting is expected to be preceded by the ninth informal joint seminar of the Security Council and the AUPSC, which is set to take place on 13 October. The aim of the joint seminar is to exchange views on how to enhance cooperation between the two Councils, including by strengthening UN and AU peace support operations and peacebuilding efforts in Africa. In this regard, issues related to working methods and how the two Councils can work together towards a common agenda in Africa will be discussed. The long-standing issue of securing adequate, predictable and sustainable financing for AU-led peace support operations will also be raised. In recent months, momentum has been building on this issue which was a key theme of the Arria-formula meeting convened by Ghana in July on Collective security through equitable burden sharing: Strengthening regional arrangements for the maintenance of international peace and security, and the open debate organised by China on Peace and security in Africa: Capacity-building for sustaining peace during its Council presidency in August. In this connection, UN Security Council members expect to receive updates on the implementation of the AU peace fund during the joint seminar. The agenda items UN Security Council members proposed for the joint consultative meeting and the joint seminar have broad support, and the AUPSC is expected to accept them. The annual consultative meeting between the two Councils has been held via VTC for the last two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but this year it will be held in person. In preparation for the meeting, the AU Committee of Experts is expected to hold consultations with its Security Council counterparts in New York from 10 to 12 October and to negotiate the draft outcome document of the 16th joint annual consultative meeting. Key Issues and Options A key issue for Council members will be how to enhance cooperation and partnership between the Security Council and the AUPSC across the whole peace continuum, ranging from conflict prevention and peacekeeping to peacebuilding and sustaining peace. In light of some of the conflict situations in Africa, an important issue that has been raised by some Council members is the need for the Security Council to step up when the efforts by the AU and its regional mechanisms appear not to have made the desired progress. Another major issue is how to address the request for sustainable financing of AU-led peace support operations from UN assessed contributions. Council members will await the Secretary-Generals report, which, in accordance with their 31 August presidential statement, will address this issue and is to be submitted by 30 April 2023. The utility of sanctions has also become a critical issue. The three African members (A3)Gabon, Ghana and Kenyahave been pushing strongly for the lifting of arms embargoes imposed by the Security Council on some African countries. They have done so based on the decisions of the AU and some of its regional mechanisms. This has affected recent negotiations on extending sanctions regimes and the mandate renewal of panels of experts assisting sanctions committees. In recent months, the A3 abstained on votes extending the sanctions regimes on the Central African Republic (July) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (June), while two members, Gabon and Kenya, abstained on a resolution renewing sanctions on South Sudan (May). A possible option for Council members would be to adopt a presidential statement reaffirming the Councils commitment to further strengthening the cooperation and partnership with the AUPSC in promoting peace and security in Africa. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members are generally supportive of the cooperation and partnership between the UN and the AU in the area of peace and security. The role of the A3 has been vital in this regard. In recent years, the A3 have enhanced their position in the Council through joint statements and coordinated positions advanced in negotiations on various Council products, particularly as they relate to Africa. However, the issue of sanctions has been divisive, with the A3 pushing for the lifting of arms embargoes on some African countries. The A3 have revived the discussion in the Council on the financing of AU-led peace support operations from UN assessed contributions. The majority of Council members and the wider UN membership have been supportive of this proposal for several years. However, during the Trump administration, the US threatened to veto a draft resolution on the financing issue that was proposed by the A3 in December 2018, and it was never put to a vote. South Africa tried to facilitate progress on this matter in 2019, but the AUPSC called on the African members in the UN Security Council to suspend their efforts until the AU had a common position on outstanding issues. Accordingly, a draft common position paper was discussed by the AUPSC committee of experts. There could be an interest in finalising the document for adoption by the AU policy organs in February 2023, in light of the 31 August Council presidential statement. That statement, among other things, requested the Secretary-General to provide the Security Council, by 30 April 2023, a report on progress made by the UN and the AU to fulfil the commitments set out in resolution 2320 of 8 November 2016 on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations and resolution 2378 of 20 September 2017 on peacekeeping reform. The report is also expected to include recommendations on moving forward that reflect good practices and lessons-learned with the view to secure predictable, sustainable and flexible resources. It seems the Biden administration is keen to strengthen US relations with Africa, as reflected by the Africa strategy that it announced in August. It has also announced its plans to host the US-Africa Summit in December. In this context, there seems to be a window of opportunity to make progress on the financing issue. In November, during its Security Council presidency, Ghana is likely to organise a signature event to facilitate a discussion of this issue. As the chair of the AUPSC for the month of September, Ghana convened a meeting in Addis Ababa on the implementation of the AU peace fund. UN DOCUMENTS ON COOPERATION BETWEEN THE UN AND THE AU This was a resolution which welcomed the AU Assembly decision to fund 25 percent of AU peace support operations, to be phased incrementally over five years. Senegal circulated a concept note ahead of the meeting. This was a resolution on UN peacekeeping reform. This was a resolution adopted during a meeting on Cooperation between the UN and regional and subregional organizations in maintaining international peace and security. This was the presidential statement initiated by China on peace and security in Africa. This a statement on strengthening the partnership between the UN and the AU on issues of peace and security in Africa, including the work of the UNOAU. This was a letter that contained the transcript of the VTC debate on Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations: African Union. UNDOF (Golan Heights) Expected Council Action In October, the Council will hold its quarterly consultations on the UN Disengagement Observer Force in the Golan (UNDOF). Key Recent Developments Council members held consultations on UNDOF on 21 June, which featured a briefing by Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Khaled Khiari. Khiari reportedly mentioned the 10 June Israeli airstrikes at Damascus International Airport, noting that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law. Media reports have suggested that Israel initiated the attack because of concerns that Iran was using civilian flights to the airport to ship arms to Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group. The Council unanimously adopted resolution 2639 on 27 June, renewing the UNDOF mandate for six months, until 31 December, as had been recommended by the Secretary-General in his 1 June report on the mission. On 15 July, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed Major General Nirmal Kumar Thapa of Nepal as UNDOFs new Force Commander and head of mission. On 19 September, Israeli forces fired on and wounded a Syrian man who was allegedly throwing explosive objects over a fence on Israels border with Syria in the southern Golan. The Secretary-General issued his latest UNDOF report on 22 September. The report expressed concern about continued violations of the Disengagement of Forces Agreement signed by Israel and Syria in 1974. This includes firing by Israel into the separation area and across the ceasefire line, as well as the presence of Syrian troops in the separation area. In light of ongoing violations of the agreement as well as the difficult security environment in the southern section of the Bravo sides limitation area (that is, the Syrian side)the Secretary-General expressed particular concern about the safety and security of UNDOF peacekeepers. Key Issues and Options A key issue for Council members is the ongoing violations of the Disengagement of Forces Agreement of 1974. The Council could consider pursuing a statement urging parties to adhere to their commitments under the agreement while expressing concern about the risk of escalation resulting from these violations. Such a statement could call on the parties to reengage in negotiations on the Golan, which have not taken place since 2008. Council Dynamics The unanimous adoption of resolution 2639 on 27 June demonstrated that the Council remains unified in its view that UNDOF plays an important role in regional stability. There was little apparent disagreement in the negotiations, and no member states felt the need to give an explanation of vote following the adoption. Despite deep divisions overall on the Council regarding the Syria file, as well as opposing positions held by co-penholders Russia and the US about who holds sovereignty over the Golan, the two countries have considered UNDOF as a separate issue on which they agree. The antagonism between Russia and the US over the conflict in Ukraine also does not appear to have affected the negotiations on the mandate in June. Council members India and Ireland have a particular interest in UNDOF, as both contribute a significant number of peacekeepers to the mission. As at 20 August, the mission comprised 1,117 troops, including 198 from India and 130 from Ireland. UN DOCUMENTS ON UNDOF This renewed the mandate of UNDOF for six months. This resolution established UNDOF. This was the Secretary-Generals quarterly UNDOF report. This was the Secretary-Generals quarterly UNDOF report. AFRICA Western Sahara Expected Council Action In October, the Council is expected to renew the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), which expires on 31 October. Ahead of the mandate renewal, Council members are also expected to receive a briefing in consultations on the Secretary-Generals annual report on the situation concerning Western Sahara. The Special Representative for Western Sahara and head of MINURSO, Alexander Ivanko, and the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Staffan de Mistura, are the anticipated briefers. Key Recent Developments De Mistura recently completed his second regional tour since his appointment as the Personal Envoy in November 2021, which followed a nearly two-and-a-half-year vacancy in the UN post. In announcing the tour, the UN said that de Mistura would seek to deepen his consultations with all parties concerned on the perspectives to constructively advance the political process on Western Sahara, and that he would remain guided by the clear precedents set by his predecessors. The most recent initiativeround-table talks, which De Misturas predecessor Horst Kohler launched and which had been deemed promising before his resignation in 2019involved Morocco; the Polisario Front, the independence movement for Western Sahara; Algeria; and Mauritania. On 5 July, de Mistura met in Rabat with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. He had planned to visit Laayoune in Western Sahara, which is administered by Morocco, but cancelled this part of his visit without explanation. De Mistura returned to the region in September to engage other stakeholders. On 2 September, he travelled to Tindouf in Algeria, visiting the Tindouf refugee camps and meeting with Polisario Front Secretary-General Brahim Ghali. He next travelled to Algiers on 5 September to meet with the Algerian authorities and then to Nouakchott for meetings with the Mauritanian authorities on 10 September. De Mistura has faced complex regional dynamics since starting his role. Algeria suspended diplomatic ties with Morocco in August 2021. In March, Spain shifted its long-standing position of active neutrality on Western Sahara by saying it supported Moroccos autonomy plan for the territory, which Spain governed until 1975. (Moroccos autonomy plan, which it submitted to the UN in 2007, calls for integrating the territory into Morocco, with the Sahrawi people managing their internal affairs while being represented externally by Morocco.) The policy shift eased tensions between the two countries that had existed since the spring of 2021 when Madrid allowed Ghali to receive medical treatment for COVID-19 in Spain, and Morocco appeared to loosen border controls that led over 10,000 migrants to enter the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta. On 24 June, approximately a month after Spain re-opened its land borders with Morocco, at least 23 migrants were killed attempting to cross from Morocco into the Spanish North African city of Melilla; videos showed Moroccan security forces using excessive force against the migrants. Council members discussed the incident, at Kenyas request, in closed consultations under any other business on 29 June. On 8 June, Algeria announced it was suspending its cooperation treaty with Spain, in force since 2002, because of Spains recognition of Moroccos autonomy plan. On 21 August, Moroccos King Mohammed VI called on his countrys partners to clarify their position over Western Sahara in an unequivocal manner. King Mohammed VI added, I would like to send a clear message to the world: the Sahara issue is the prism through which Morocco views its international environment. On 26 August, Morocco recalled its ambassador to Tunisia after the country invited Ghali to the 8th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-8), held on 27 and 28 August in Tunis. On 27 August, Tunisia recalled its ambassador to Rabat. In another controversy, new Kenyan president William Ruto announced on Twitter on 12 September that Kenya was rescinding its recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), which the Polisario Front proclaimed in 1976, and was winding down SADRs presence in Kenya. The announcement represented a major policy change by Kenya and occurred the day after Ghali attended Rutos inauguration. As widely reported, Ruto wants to subsidise fertilisers for Kenyan farmers and has been discussing a trade deal with Morocco, which is Africas leading producer of fertilisers and controls the worlds largest phosphate reserves used to produce fertilisers that have become much more costly since the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The tweet was subsequently deleted, while another tweet, saying that Kenya supported the UN framework as the exclusive mechanism to find a lasting solution to the dispute, remained on Rutos account. On 24 August, the offices of UNHCR, UNICEF and the World Food Programme in Algeria warned that Sahrawi refugees in Tindouf were at risk of severe food insecurity and malnutrition after funding gaps had forced the WFP to cut food rations in the Tindouf camps by 75 percent. They attributed the funding shortfall to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise in global food and fuel prices, and the effects of the war in Ukraine. Key Issues and Options A key issue for Council members to consider is how to bring all parties to the negotiating table. Resolution 2602 of 29 October 2021 called on all parties to resume negotiations with a view to achieving a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution, which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. At the time of the last Council meeting, de Mistura was still pondering his mediation approach to Western Sahara. Significant obstacles remain in the peace process. The Polisario Front announced in November 2020 that it would no longer respect the ceasefire agreement it signed with Morocco in 1991. The announcement followed Moroccos deployment of armed forces into a buffer zone after Polisario protesters blocked traffic between the Moroccan-controlled side of Western Sahara and Mauritania at the border town of Guerguerat. Regional dynamics, such as tensions between Algeria and Morocco, further complicate prospects for a reinvigorated peace process. The current MINURSO mandate noted previous Personal Envoy Kohlers intent to invite Morocco, the Polisario Front, Algeria, and Mauritania to meet again in the round-table format. For the upcoming mandate renewal, Council members will have the opportunity to map out their expectations for a political process and express support for any strategy or approach that De Mistura is developing. Members could further consider requesting the Secretary-General to issue a report on Western Sahara before the Council convenes on the matter in March. (Currently, the Council meets twice a year on Western Sahara, usually every six months. The Secretary-General traditionally issues one annual report covering Western Sahara in October ahead of the mandate renewal date.) The human rights situation is another issue of concern. The Secretary-Generals reports on Western Sahara often flag reports received by OHCHR about human rights restrictions and violations in Moroccan-controlled areas of Western Sahara, as well as in the Tindouf camps. Council Dynamics The US, the penholder on Western Sahara, recognised Moroccos sovereignty over the region in December 2020 during the Trump administration. The Biden administration has not changed this position. The US tends to favour a renewal with little substantive change and advocates for a mutually beneficial solution to the situation. This approach has the support of most Council members, with strong calls for the holding of a referendum in the minority. France has traditionally supported the Moroccan autonomy plan, and Gabon and the United Arab Emirates are also supportive of Morocco. Council members Ghana, Kenya and Mexico maintain diplomatic relations with SADR. Adoptions of MINURSOs mandate renewal have not been unanimous since 2017, with Russia citing the lack of reference to the right to self-determination in recent mandates. Last year, Russia advocated the deletion of the word realistica term first introduced in MINURSOs mandate in resolution 2414 of 27 April 2018in reference to finding a political solution, arguing that the term was not based on international law. UN DOCUMENTS ON WESTERN SAHARA This resolution renewed the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum on Western Sahara (MINURSO) for another year, until 31 October 2022. The resolution received 13 votes in favour and two abstentions (Russia and Tunisia). This was the annual Secretary-Generals report on the situation concerning Western Sahara, covering developments from 31 August 2020 and 1 October 2021. This contained the explanation of votes at the adoption of resolution 2602 renewing MINURSOs mandate. THEMATIC ISSUES Women, Peace and Security Expected Council Action In October, the Security Council is scheduled to hold its annual open debate on women, peace and security (WPS), which will be entitled Strengthening womens resilience and leadership as a path to peace in regions plagued by armed groups. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, UN Women Executive Director Sima Sami Bahous and two women civil society representatives are the anticipated briefers. An outcome is not expected. Key Recent Developments The Secretary-Generals annual report on WPSexpected ahead of the open debatewill provide an update on the implementation of the agenda over the past year. The focus of this years report is expected to be on womens rights and, specifically, on turning the unconditional defence of womens rights into one of the most visible and identifiable markers of the UNs work on peace and security. This was one of the five goals for the decade set out in the Secretary-Generals 2020 annual report on WPS. In particular, the 2021 WPS annual report said that this years report must include recommendations for better protection for women human rights defenders [WHRDs] and against all political violence in public life, and lessons learned from recent developments, including in Afghanistan and the evacuation or attempted evacuation of women at risk. The Council formally discussed reprisals against WHRDs for the first time in January at the open debate on Protecting participation: addressing violence targeting women in peace and security processes, convened by Norway. (This was preceded by the February 2020 Arria-formula meeting on reprisals against WHRDs and women peacebuilders who engage with the Council and its subsidiary bodies.) Then-UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, NGO Working Group on WPS Executive Director Kaavya Asoka, and Women and Children Legal Research Foundation Executive Director Zarqa Yaftali briefed. The briefers described patterns of attacks aimed at silencing women leaders and WHRDs across the globe, including women cooperating with the UN. Bachelet stressed that more needs to be done to provide safe spaces for WHRDs to interact with the Council and its subsidiary bodies, without fear of retribution. Asoka said that approximately one-third of the women supported by the NGO Working Group on WPS who have briefed the Council since 2018 faced intimidation or reprisals; in about 67 percent of those cases, state actors were the perpetrators. She described how civil society received grossly insufficient political and material support in responding to cases of reprisals and highlighted ways in which member states and the UN could better work to counter reprisals, such as the UN having sufficient capacity to do so and establishing clear protocols on how it should respond to individual cases. Yaftali, who focused on the situation of women in Afghanistan, said that in her October 2020 briefing to the Council, she had demanded that the international community protect hard-won gains in womens participation, but [t]he world did not listen. Since September 2021, Council members have explicitly focused a meeting on Somalia (September 2021) and one on Yemen (January) on WPS. Moreover, members discussed the situation of women and girls regularly in meetings on Afghanistan, and two of the many recent meetings on Ukraine (in April and June) focused on aspects of the WPS agenda. In addition to the annual open debate on WPS in October 2021, the annual meeting on conflict-related sexual violence in April and the open debate on protecting participation in January, the Council held two open debates under the WPS agenda item: on public-private partnerships in March and on the role of regional organisations in contexts of violent takeovers in June. The November 2021 annual briefing with the heads of police components of UN peace operations also had a WPS focus. Some months saw a high number of women civil society representatives briefing the Council, with Ireland setting a new record of 16 women civil society briefers during its September 2021 presidency, followed by Albania in June (13) and Norway in January (11). Often after overcoming opposition, members strengthened WPS language in several Council products, including on the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan in March and on the UN Mission to support the Hodeidah Agreement (Yemen) in July. The high number of meetings with a focus on WPS issues and of women civil society briefers is in no small part attributable to the WPS Security Council presidencies initiative. Ireland, Kenya and Mexico started the initiative as a Presidency Trio for WPS in September, October and November 2021, respectively. At various times between December 2021 and September, Albania, Brazil, France, Gabon, Niger, Norway, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the UK signed up to a 1 December 2021 statement of shared commitments on WPS, which built on the presidency trio initiative. This statement was also endorsed by Ireland, Kenya and Mexico. Security Council Reports upcoming research report Golden Threads and Persisting Challenges: The Security Council Women, Peace and Security Presidencies Initiative will analyse this initiative, highlighting best practices, challenges and ways forward. Since October 2021, the Informal Experts Group (IEG) on WPS has met seven times. In recent months, the IEG held meetings on Sudan (23 May), The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question (24 June), and the Central African Republic (26 August). The 24 June meeting marked the first time the IEG discussed the situation in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. The IEG is expected to meet on Iraq in October and to hold its third meeting with womens protection advisers from several UN missions in November. From 28 to 30 June, IEG members Brazil, India, Ireland, Mexico, Norway, the UAE, and the UK undertook a visiting mission to Lebanon. While field visits focused on WPS were envisaged in the 2016 IEG guidelines, this was the first such visit by members of the IEG. Among other objectives listed in the summary report on the visiting mission, the visit aimed at familiarising members with the tangible implications on the ground of language on [WPS] in mandates. Key Issues and Options The principal issue for the Security Council remains the full implementation of its WPS resolutions. Within the Council, this could include enhancing cross-presidency planning on WPS to promote robust and continuous Council engagement on WPS across the Councils work. Members could use the information from IEG meetings to address specific points during Council meetings and negotiations and to develop ways of following up more systematically on the implementation of the recommendations put forward by UN Women contained in the IEG co-chairs letters. At the end of the year, the current IEG co-chairs, Ireland and Mexico, will conclude their term on the Council. Ireland and Mexico might be interested in sharing best practices from their term with the incoming IEG co-chairs. Members might be interested in convening a closed Arria-formula meeting with Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders Mary Lawlor, the representatives of relevant UN entities, and NGO coalitions to discuss ways to reinforce the prevention and response to reprisals against human rights defenders, including WHRDs. The organisers may want to include a focus on the interaction between long-term and short-term strategies to prevent reprisals and circulate a summary of the proceedings after the meeting. Members may continue to invite diverse women civil society representatives to brief the Council. The 1 December 2021 statement of shared WPS commitments contains a commitment to follow up on recommendations and priority issues raised by civil society briefers. Members participating in the initiative may want to develop ways to monitor the impact of their commitment to follow up on the concerns expressed by civil society briefers. Council Dynamics The prevalent perception among Council members supportive of the WPS agendaand several civil society actorsis that the fundamental dynamics on WPS remain largely unchanged and have likely been complicated by Russias invasion of Ukraine. These actors emphasise the importance of implementing the existing normative framework on WPS rather than pursuing further Council outcomes, in order to avoid language that is redundant or less robust than the existing content of WPS resolutions. Accordingly, it seems that while the possibility of an outcome ahead of the WPS open debates in October, June and October 2021 was informally considered by Gabon, Albania and Kenya, respectively, in each case the decision was taken not to go forward. Against these complicated dynamics, the WPS presidencies initiative conferred heightened visibility to the agenda at the Council and allowed an exceptional number of women civil society representatives to brief the Council during some of the participating presidencies. UN DOCUMENTS ON WOMEN, PEACE AND SECURITY This was the first Security Council resolution on women, peace and security. Reaffirming womens key role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, this text calls for the adoption of a gender perspective in peace agreements and for the protection of women and girls from gender-based violence. This was the Secretary-Generals annual report on women, peace and security. MIDDLE EAST Yemen Expected Council Action In October, the Council is expected to hold a briefing, followed by closed consultations, on Yemen. UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths are the anticipated briefers. General Michael Beary, head of the UN Mission to Support the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA), is expected to brief during the consultations. Key Recent Developments The ongoing truce in Yemen is set to expire on 2 October, following its second renewal in August. Grundberg is seeking an expanded truce agreement that opens roads around Taiz, as envisioned in the initial truce agreement; maintains the regular flow of fuel imports through Hodeidah; increases international flight destinations from Sanaa airport; and establishes a mechanism to pay civil servant salaries. His push for an expanded truce also seeks a longer six-month extension, instead of its customary two-month renewal periods, to provide more space to negotiate a formal ceasefire, and to hold talks on broader economic, security and political issues. The truce saw its most serious fighting on 28 August when the Houthi rebel group attacked the al-Dhabab district west of Taiz city, in an attempt to seize the lone government-controlled road into the city, which the Houthis have surrounded for years. The Yemeni government said ten of its soldiers were killed and seven wounded in the hours-long fighting. Grundberg strongly condemned the attack. The fighting occurred as representatives of the parties to the Military Coordination Committee (MCC), which manages military aspects of the truce, were in Amman to hold their fourth meeting. Because of the attack, the meeting did not take place, and MCC members only met bilaterally with the envoys military adviser. Talks to open roads into and out of Taiz city have been deadlocked. The Houthis have blocked access to main roads since 2015, leaving the mountainous, narrow and unpaved Haigat Al-Abd as the only major access road to the city from Aden. On 29 August, 15 human rights organizations, including Humans Rights Watch and Amnesty International, issued a statement calling for the Houthis to immediately open roads, highlighting the humanitarian suffering created by the road closures and isolation of Taiz. In other provocative actions, the Houthis have recently held a series of military parades. A 1 September parade in Hodeidah included drones, mines and land-based anti-ship missiles. It prompted an UNMHA statement that called the parade a violation of the December 2018 Hodeidah Agreement and urged Houthi leadership to fully respect their obligations under the Agreement, particularly as it pertains to keeping the City free of military manifestations. On 15 September and 21 September, the Houthis staged massive military parades in Sanaa to commemorate the eighth anniversary of their take-over of Sanaa in September 2014. Meanwhile in the south, the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC), which is a member of the anti-Houthi coalition, announced that 27 soldiers had been killed on 28 August in an attack by Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). The attack followed an STC military operation into Abyan, launched on 23 August, against the orders of the chairman of Yemens eight-member Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), Rashad al-Alimi. The operation came just after fighting had subsided in neighbouring Shawba governorate between anti-Houthi forces and further demonstrated the fragility of the PLC, which was formed in April to create a more united front consisting of the various Yemeni groups nominally opposed to the Houthis. Council members held their regular monthly meeting on Yemen in closed consultations with Grundberg, OCHA Director of Operations and Advocacy Reena Ghelani, and General Beary on 8 September. Prior to the meeting, Grundberg completed a series of regional meetings on his expanded truce proposal in Riyadh, Tehran and Muscat. In a 12 September press statement, Council members called on both parties to urgently intensify, and be flexible in, the negotiations to agree on an expanded truce that could be translated into a durable ceasefire. The statement condemned all attacks that threatened the truce, including the recent Houthi attacks on Taiz, and condemned the military parade in Hodeidah. Members also expressed concern regarding recent instability in the southern part of Yemen. On 15 September, the Council held a briefing on widespread food insecurity due to conflict and violence in northern Ethiopia, northeast Nigeria, South Sudan, and Yemen. An OCHA white note on the four country situations, dated 26 August, prompted the meeting. According to the white note, 19 million people in Yemen are estimated to be suffering from acute food insecurity. Of this total, 538,000 children are severely malnourished and 161,000 people face catastroph[ic] food insecurity, a reference to famine-like conditions. Yemens depreciating currency, the rise in global fuel and food prices, and the severe humanitarian funding gap continue to drive Yemens humanitarian crisis, despite reduced hostilities. On 17 September, the Netherlands announced a pledge of 7.5 million euros for the UN-facilitated plan to prevent a major oil spill from the decrepit FSO Safer oil tanker moored off Hoideidah governorate. The announcement by the Netherlandswhich made an initial pledge in May, also of 7.5 million eurosprovides the UN with the $75 million required to begin the emergency phase of the operation to transfer the oil from the FSO Safer to a temporary vessel. Key Issues and Options The renewal and expansion of the truce is a critical issue. Recent developments represent a precarious moment for the truce. The Houthis have refused to make concessions regarding Taiz, and there are reports that they have increased their demands for securing an extension or expansion of the truce agreement. Emerging issues are the fighting and divisions among different groups that make up the PLC. Council members are likely to monitor Grundbergs efforts to obtain an extension of the truce. In the event of agreement on an expanded truce, members could consider adopting a presidential statement to endorse the deal, while encouraging the parties to maintain and translate the truce into a ceasefire agreement. Rising global food and energy prices as a result of the war in Ukraine have contributed to increasing humanitarian needs in Yemen despite the reduction in fighting since the truce. Members could encourage donors to contribute to the UNs 2022 Yemen humanitarian response plan and support Yemens economy, to the salvage operations involving the FSO Safer, and to the UN Verification and Inspection Mechanism (UNVIM). UNVIM, which has operated since 2016, has played an important role during the truce in facilitating commercial shipments into Hodeidah, but it may face funding shortfalls starting in October that could force it to suspend operations. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members have encouraged the parties to uphold the truce and want to see it translated into a durable ceasefire, which could facilitate progress on a political process for an eventual negotiated settlement to end the war. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)an elected Council member that has been closely involved in the conflict as a member of the Saudi Arabia-led coalition battling the Houthisactively pushes for its views, particularly regarding the Houthis, to be reflected in Council products. Russia traditionally resists language in Council products that it perceives as too critical of the Houthis or not balanced. This year, however, Russia has been more flexible in Council negotiations on Yemen, which appears to reflect its bilateral relations with the UAE. The US Special Envoy for Yemen, Timothy Lenderking, has engaged in regional diplomacy to support UN efforts to extend the truce and raise funds for the FSO Safer salvage operation. While Saudi Arabia exercises leverage on the Yemeni government, Oman often plays an important role as an interlocutor with the Houthis. Ahead of the truces renewal on 2 August, an Omani delegation visited Sanaa to help secure its extension. The UK is the penholder on Yemen. Ambassador Ferit Hoxha (Albania) chairs the Yemen 2140 Sanctions Committee, which met on 9 September with the Yemen Panel of Experts on its mid-term update. UN DOCUMENTS ON YEMEN This renewed the mandate of UNMHA until 14 July 2023. This was a briefing on conflict-induced hunger following OCHAs 26 August white note to Council members on widespread food insecurity due to conflict and violence in northern Ethiopia, northeast Nigeria, South Sudan and Yemen. This press statement called on both parties to urgently intensify, and be flexible in, the negotiations to agree on an expanded truce that could be translated into a durable ceasefire. According to the information of the State Security Service, representatives of the Russian occupation forces carried out illegal so-called borderization."The hotline has been activated by the State Security Service. The issue will be discussed at the incident prevention and response mechanism meeting. The monitoring mission of the European Union and the co-chairs of the Geneva discussions have been informed about the illegal process," State Security Service said.The third president of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, published a letter titled "365 days of captivity" one year after his arrest. In the letter, he wrote that the ongoing war in Ukraine is also the war of the Georgians, where the issue of Georgia's presence or absence is decided."I want to ask a question - how is it possible that the creator of the modern army is watching this great battle from prison? If nothing else, I should now be on the front line with body armor and a machine gun. As a representative of the highest officials of Ukraine and as an ordinary citizen of Ukraine, as a patriot of Georgia, I am obliged to be there where the fate of Ukraine and Georgia is decided.We will definitely win. I say this as the commander-in-chief, who for the first time experienced a full-scale Russian attack and saved our country with you. I am no longer interested in the internal political differences of Georgia, such a large-scale event is taking place in the world, where I am also known and my struggle with Russia is known. Freedom or death," he wrote.Mikheil Saakashvili was arrested on October 1, 2021 in Tbilisi.Nikoloz Samkharadze, the chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, responded to the announcement of the annexation of the occupied territories of Ukraine by Russian President Vladimir Putin."We strongly condemn the illegal annexation of four regions of Ukraine by Russia. This decision has no international legitimacy and is against the principles of international law.The territorial integrity of sovereign nations is inviolable and it is not allowed to change borders by force," wrote Nikoloz Samkharadze on Twitter.At the ceremony held in the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees on the accession of 4 regions of Ukraine - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhia to Russia. Chip maker MediaTek and Aglobal leader in IoT platforms and cloud computing solutions on Sunday announced a strategic collaboration to roll out 5G and Wi-Fi router solutions. The collaboration will enable a comprehensive portfolio of solutions and significant manufacturing capabilities in India. "We are thrilled to launch our 5G and Wi-Fi routers which would help consumers and enterprise customers to provide secure, strong and seamless wireless networking solutions," Satish Kulkarni, CEO of Invendis, said in a statement. "We are confident that this engagement will drive innovation, the rapid rollout of 5G products and services in India while helping consumers unlock the possibilities created by ultra-fast and reliable connectivity," Kulkarni added. The new "Silboa product line upgrades the Invendis Business and Industrial communication solutions portfolio to include 4G/5G routers with Wi-Fi 4/5/6 standards, supporting multi-WAN, VPN, SD WAN, NMS, etc, across business verticals. The product line features MediaTek's Networking and Connectivity solutions, including MediaTek MT7628K/N/A - Router and Repeater Platform, MediaTek MT7621A/N - Dual-core Network Processor for 2x2/3x3/4x4 Wi-Fi platforms and MediaTek MT7915 Wi-Fi 6 Wave 1+ chipset builds among others. "MediaTek's complete range of Networking and Connectivity solutions is equipped to address dynamic customer requirements be it home, commercial or enterprise applications," said Anku Jain, Managing Director, MediaTek India. Thank you for visiting the Daily Journal. Please purchase an Enhanced Subscription to continue reading. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! San Mateo, CA (94402) Today Cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later in the day. High 76F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A few clouds from time to time. Low 56F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Credit Suisses new chief has asked investors for less than 100 days to deliver a new turnaround strategy. Turbulent markets are making that feel like a long time. The cost of insuring the firms bonds against default climbed about 15 per cent last week to levels not seen since 2009 as the shares touched a new record low. Chief executive officer Ulrich Koerner reassured staff that the bank has a strong capital base and liquidity position and told employees that he will be sending them regular updates until the firm announces a new strategic plan on October 27. Koerner said the bank is facing a critical moment. The Swiss giant is currently finalising plans that will likely see sweeping changes to its investment bank and may include cutting thousands of jobs over a number of years. Credit:Bloomberg Koerner, who was named CEO in late July, has had to deal with market speculation, banker exits and capital doubts as he seeks to set a path forward for the troubled Swiss bank. The lender is currently finalising plans that will likely see sweeping changes to its investment bank and may include cutting thousands of jobs over a number of years, Bloomberg has reported. Koerners memo was the second straight Friday missive as speculation over the beleaguered banks future increases. Analysts at KBW estimated that the firm may need to raise 4 billion Swiss francs ($6.3 billion) of capital even after selling some assets to fund any restructuring, growth efforts and any unknowns. The same can be said of his follow-up, The Greatest Beer Run Ever, another loosely factual message movie in which the social upheavals of the 1960s serve as a backdrop for the moral education of a stubborn working-class dumbbell. Russell Crowe (left) plays a war photographer opposite Zac Efrons John Chickie Donohue, who travels to Vietnam to deliver beer to his mates in The Greatest Beer Run Ever. Credit:Suppled In the long run, brothers Peter and Bobby Farrelly will undoubtedly be best remembered for inventively vulgar comedy classics such as Theres Something About Mary and Dumb and Dumber. Still, Peter Farrellys solo directing debut, the bluntly populist but basically modest Green Book , had more to recommend it than most films that can be described as Oscar bait. The naive hero is John Chickie Donohue, an underachieving New York sailor played by a boisterously gesticulating Zac Efron in a hideous moustache one immediate sign the burlesque side of the Farrelly sensibility lingers to some degree. Its 1967, and like the rest of America, the Irish-Catholic neighbourhood of Inwood is at odds over the Vietnam War. Chickies kid sister (Ruby Ashbourne Serkis) has joined the protests; a local barkeeper (Bill Murray) supports the troops but deplores the bloody images showing up on colour TV. Zac Efrons John Chickie Donohue travels from New York to Vietnam to hand out cans of beer as tokens of gratitude to the US soldiers. Chickie admits hes no expert on the conflict, but he knows where he stands, especially with so many of his buddies doing their duty. Impulsively, he decides to pay them a visit, bringing along a canvas bag loaded with cans of beer to be handed out as tokens of gratitude. Inevitably, his civilian excursion to Vietnam develops into a bigger, more disturbing adventure than anything he could have imagined. Yet, the film maintains an ambiguous, seriocomic tone, mingling sombre moments with touches of farce, especially the running gag of Chickie being mistaken for a representative of the CIA. Blonde curls, red lips, a dainty beauty spot: Few stars have imprinted as firmly on our visual culture than Marilyn Monroe. When Kim Kardashian stepped out onto the red carpet at the Met Gala earlier this year, the reference was unmistakeable. With Monroes famous sequinned naked dress clinging to her body, hair bleached white-blonde, the Kardashian paid homage (albeit controversially), to the stars staying power in the American imagination. Now, Monroes image is being brought back to the big screen with Blonde: Marilyn is having a moment, it seems. The film, from Australian director Andrew Dominik, is based on Joyce Carol Oates loosely biographical account of Monroes life, and features pitch perfect recreations of her most iconic looks. Ana de Armas portrays Marilyn Monroe in the new film Blonde. Credit:Netflix via AP There are few make-up looks as iconic as that of Marilyn Monroes, says artist Katie Angus. She encapsulated old hollywood glamour like no other with her striking contoured eye and dazzling red lips, setting a precedent for beauty trends for years to come. Man killed after motorbike crashes into pole in Adelaide Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later. Dismiss Two German nationals accused of helping to cover up a murder will never face justice in Australia for their alleged roles in hiding fellow German backpacker Simone Strobels body outside a Lismore caravan park 17 years ago. Tobias Moran was arrested over the murder of Simone Strobel in July this year. Credit:NSW Police Strobel was a 25-year-old backpacker travelling with her boyfriend Tobias Suckfuell now known as Toby Moran his sister Katrin Suckfuell and friend Jens Martin on the NSW North Coast in 2005 when her naked body was found hidden under palm fronds on an abandoned bocce court six days after she was last seen. In July this year, Moran now married to an Australian woman named Samantha Moran and living in Perth was charged with Strobels murder and perverting the course of justice. He was extradited to NSW and granted bail several days later, his barrister Tim Game, SC, telling the court that police had not uncovered any evidence to progress the case. Premier Dominic Perrottet believes the NSW Coalitions climate and energy policies will help shield it from losing key Sydney seats to the teal independent movement that punished the former federal government. Perrottet said it was policy, not vote preferences, that resulted in the Morrison government losing a swath of seats to climate-focused independents at the May federal election. Premier Dominic Perrottet believes the NSW Coalition isnt as vulnerable to climate-focused independents as the previous federal government. Credit:Ben Rushton Six months out from the next state election, Perrottets Liberal Party faces a challenge from a handful of independents across the citys north shore and northern beaches, where several long-serving government MPs are set to retire. The premier said he didnt believe the so-called teal independents would present as big of an issue for the NSW Liberals as they did at the federal election. He stressed that wasnt because of the states optional preferential voting system, but rather his governments climate and energy credentials. They were touted as a major update of central Sydneys look and feel new bus stops, billboards and bins to modernise our streets and provide significant advertising revenue for the city council. But now that they are here, the installations are proving divisive especially the girthy, 86-inch electronic billboards that have popped up throughout the City of Sydney, including the CBD, Surry Hills and Potts Point. Some of the billboards are located right next to phone booths, largely obscuring one side from view. Credit:Steven Siewert Their placement in the middle of footpaths has aggrieved pedestrians, while other observers are bemused by the installation of new Telstra phone booths barely a metre from some billboards, obscuring one side from view. Theyre in the wrong space, the positions are all wrong, said City of Sydney councillor Lyndon Gannon, who said he was fielding daily complaints from constituents about the signage. It was a complete disaster from the start. An early morning brawl outside a Brisbane laneway bar has ended with one man in hospital with serious head injuries and another facing serious criminal charges. It will be alleged a fight broke out among three men outside a licensed venue on Eagle Lane about 1.20am on Monday. The man was injured in Eagle Lane, Brisbane. (File photo) Credit:Tammy Law During the brawl, police said, a 23-year-old Northgate man was allegedly assaulted and his head struck the concrete kerb. He lost consciousness and was rushed to hospital. The future of casino giant Star in Queensland will be revealed this week, after allegations of money laundering, incentives offered to suspected criminals, and a lack of action on gambling addicts. Revelations from 60 Minutes and Nine newspapers which owns this masthead of alleged nefarious activity inside Stars casinos led to simultaneous inquiries into Stars operations in Queensland and NSW. The Queensland casino inquiry was led by former Appeal Court judge Robert Gotterson (left). Credit:AFR The Star Entertainment Group operates The Star Gold Coast, Treasury Brisbane, and is due to open its Queens Wharf casino and resort in Brisbane in the second half of 2023. The eight-week NSW inquiry heard evidence from senior executives questioned about misleading conduct, VIP junkets, and failures to manage anti-money-laundering risks. It found Star was not fit to hold its Sydney licence. This story is part of the VCE Study Guide. See all 8 stories . For former Aquinas College student Flynn Spencer, VCE preparation required more than just exam prep. The 19-year-old is now studying a bachelor of science and hopes to be a herpetologist, but his VCE journey was different to his peers. Flynn Spencer with his pet blue tongue lizard. Credit:Justin McManus Flynn had to apply for multiple special provisions for his exam to cater for his Tourette syndrome, anxiety, autism and dysgraphia, which is a difficulty with handwriting, spelling and written expression. Across the education system, about 21 per cent of Victorian students need educational adjustment due to a disability. Pauline and Roger Tingley are both in their 80s, but over three days they have managed to clock up about 13 hours of dancing. The secret to their stamina? Voltaren foot rubs and plenty of shut-eye, sometimes with the help of a sleeping tablet. Jessica Coyle and Zyg Wawrzycki, both wearing red, at the Big Bad Dance. Credit:Justin McManus The Bairnsdale-based husband and wife met at dancing lessons 25 years ago and its been their hobby ever since, involving regular trips to Melbourne to hit the dance floors together. I found the love of my life at 55, said Roger, 80. A Perth family are urging change at Joondalup Health Campus, claiming the hospital admitted breaching its duty of care over the death of an Aboriginal father-of-six from a heart attack in 2018. When Barry Nelson, 35, was rushed to the hospital with chest and arm pain, his mother told staff about the familys history of heart attacks including his younger brother, who survived two. However, Nelson was instead pumped with painkillers under the belief he was having an allergic reaction to a recent cortisone injection in his shoulder. He went into shock hours later and was rushed to another hospital, but couldnt be saved. Police have arrested a man they believe is linked to the suspected gangland murder of Joe Versace, just hours after making a public appeal to find him. Versace, who was known to be used as an enforcer for gangs across Perth, was shot twice on Thursday afternoon inside a Gnangara workshop. Several search warrants were executed over the weekend in the hunt for the 34-year-olds killer or killers, with homicide squad detectives on Monday appealing to the community to help find Joshua Colin Duperouzel. He was apprehended in Belmont a short time later. Inquires are ongoing. At least 2.1 million personal identification details, including 150,000 passport and 50,000 Medicare numbers, have been stolen in the Optus data hack as the companys embattled chief executive Kelly Bayer Rosmarin hit back at government criticism, suggesting people calling the attack basic were ill-informed. Bayer Rosmarin defended the companys communications with customers in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age while Optus revealed 9.8 million people had their data accessed but said 7.7 million do not need to replace documents. Optus chief executive Kelly Bayer Rosmarin has said people talking about the nature of the hack are not talking from a position of knowledge. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer, Eddie Jim In comments likely to continue tensions with the federal government, Bayer Rosmarin hit out at those who have called the attack basic, which includes Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil, saying it was too early to know the nature of the hack. There has been no review and no report on the nature of what has occurred, said Bayer Rosmarin, who would not discuss the nature of the attack, citing police advice. So anyone saying anything about it is not talking from a position of knowledge. Optus has hired former Howard adviser and journalist David Luff to help it navigate through its hacking crisis amid ongoing criticism from the federal government and customers on its handling of the attack that exposed the personal data of nearly 10 million customers. Government services minister Bill Shorten turned up the heart on Optus on Tuesday, taking the telcos executives to task over the long delays in telling customers how badly they had been affected by the hack. Shorten added to the criticism from the weekend in a press conference on Tuesday, declaring Optus senior management were kidding themselves if they believed they had done a good job of communicating with customers, as he acknowledged the telco had handed over the information requested by Service Australia. Bill Shorten said Optus executives are mistaken if they think they have effectively communicated with customers since the data breach. Credit:Nine News Im pleased that our Service Australia people were able to get data finally today butsenior management are kidding themselves if they want a medal for the way that theyve been communicating, he said. Birmingham: Britains new prime minister Liz Truss will lead the Tories to a loss because she has turned her back on conservative economics and the party has lost its way, Alexander Downer says. In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age on the sidelines of the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, Australias longest-serving foreign minister said he could see no path to victory for Truss following her humiliating backdown on granting the countrys wealthiest a huge tax cut. Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss. Credit:AP Shes only been the leader for three weeks, and already shes done a major U-turn. Personally, I think thats hugely damaging because it undermines public confidence in you; that you didnt really think this through, did you? he said. This is a sign that after just three weeks she is going to find it perilously difficult to manage the party. Prague: Elon Musk is drawing the wrath of Ukrainians from the president down for Twitter posts urging Ukraine to seek a negotiated solution to the invasion by Russia and to cede Crimea for good. The Tesla CEO also launched a Twitter poll asking citizens of occupied areas of eastern Ukraine recently annexed by Russia plus Crimea, which Moscow took in 2014 to decide if they want to live in Russia or Ukraine. Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has some ideas about peace in Ukraine. Credit:AP The survey comes as Ukraine, Europe and the US denounce President Vladimir Putins move to annex four regions and declare them Russian territory. In another post, Musk called for the sham referendums conducted by Russia in occupied areas which led to Putin authorising their annexation to be redone under UN supervision. He also said Crimea should be formally part of Russia. On Ukraine, he said it should remain neutral. Birmingham: Supporters of British Prime Minister Liz Truss have warned Conservative MPs that they could be booted from the party room if they vote against her tax cuts for the rich, even though she conceded she had failed to communicate the shock policy properly. Late on Sunday, the London Telegraph, the paper most closely aligned with Truss, reported she would delay a vote on cutting the top tax rate. Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and Prime Minister Liz Truss at the annual Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. Credit:Getty Images Earlier, she told the BBC that she should have laid the ground better before Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng announced the abolition of the 45p tax rate, a bracket in which those on the highest incomes pay 45 per cent tax. I have learnt from that, Truss told the BBC. I will make sure in future we do a better job of laying the ground. Leipzig, Germany: Swedish scientist Svante Paabo has won the Nobel Prize in medicine for discoveries in human evolution that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal DNA that helped us understand what makes humans unique and provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Techniques that Paabo spearheaded allowed researchers to compare the genome of modern humans and that of other hominins the Denisovans as well as Neanderthals. Svante Paabo, director of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, with a model of a Neanderthal skeleton. Credit:Getty Just as you do an archeological excavation to find out about the past, we sort of make excavations in the human genome, he said at a news conference held by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. While Neanderthal bones were first discovered in the mid-19th century, only by understanding their DNA often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. The second type of response could be called the To Arms response. This took the form of a demand upon the people to abandon their sinful ways, and to come alive to the stupendous task before them. Officers at the CSIRO listen to the radio signals of Russian satellite, Sputnik I, at Sydney University, 8 October 1957. Credit:Frank Burke Senator Styles Bridges, Republican, of New Hampshire, was the one who put this mast graphically when he said: The time has clearly come to be less concerned with the depth of the pile on the new broadloom rug or the height of the tail fin on the new car, end to be prepared to shed blood, sweat and tears if this country and the free world are to survive. And if this sounds only like the phraseology of a politician addressing a political rally, then examine the injunction of a sober man of science, but sounding very much the same. Dr Elmer Hutchinson, Director of the American Institute of Physics, with a member ship of 20,000, pointed out that too much of Americas science was being devoted to such unimportant things as how to bring up children without inhibiting their individuality. Unless science is taken almost, as a religion, our way of life, is, I am certain doomed to rapid extinction. Still another interesting type of reaction was the kind that sums up competition between Russia and the United States in the sentence: A democracy cannot afford to pay the price for a prestige achievement which a dictatorship is prepared to pay. The Russians may have a satellite, but such marvels do not feed, clothe or house anyone. The bulk of the Russian people are still ill-fed, ill-clothed and ill-housed. In a democracy like the United States, the people decide on the priority and allocation of resources to projects. This Soviet cartoon depicts an Irate Uncle Sam shaking his first at Sputnik as a broken U.S. satellite lies at his feet. Credit:Soviet Kirghizia The priority would be relatively low in the United States. Then there was the chagrin reaction: We could have launched a satellite before the Russians, a better one, too, full of instruments, and not just a radio sender. Somebody slipped up. Some bonehead in the Pentagon muffed the chance. Dr I. M. Levitt, director of the Fels planetarium In Philadelphia and identified as an authority on outer space, took this line. He said that the army could have achieved a satellite moon just like Russias by doing little more than changing the angle of fire on one of its Jupiter rockets, which reached a 15,000 miles speed and a 650-mile altitude in a test. Then there was the type of reaction which demanded, Why be surprised at Russian superiority in some scientific fields? It has been known for some time that they had men in science as good as the best elsewhere, and in certain instances, even better. Much of their advance is based on accomplishments of scientists in other countries and on work of their scientists of the age of the Czars. America is still superior in science as a whole. Loading The foregoing line of reasoning led into something even stronger at reassurance. Reports began to circulate that soon the U.S. would launch devices that in comparison to the Russian satellite would be like a pearl to a pea. The most startling of these is to be a rocket train launched 240,400 miles to the moon from a 100,000-foot high balloon. This rocket train would be equipped with every conceivable kind of recording equipment, including a television camera that would send back pictures of the far side of the moon, the side not yet seen by human eyes. A type of reaction worth identification, perhaps because of its negative rather than positive character, is the one which makes much of the propaganda value of the satellite to Russia. The Russians will now have demonstrated to the uncommitted peoples of the world that the Communist system is the better one for achievement. America will lose friends. More of the worlds peoples will be crowding to get into the Russian camp. All that America has done and spent to bring these to adhere to the West will have been done and spent in vain. Its a great loss. Those who seem most troubled by this loss do not appear to realise that those of the uncommitted peoples who see in the satellite a reason for committing themselves to Russia couldnt really be of much value to the West. Dear Editor, PHYSICIAN DR TERRANCE MICHAEL DREW rode the popular political wave and ousted accountant Dr Timothy Harris as St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister in the August 5th polls this year. There were high hopes following Drews win. He drew the sentiments of Kittitians and Nevisians, wearied by the foibles of the seven-year Harris administration, towards his talented Labour government. But inexplicably, PM Dr. Drew seems willing to squander the political capital secured by him and his team on August 5. He raised eyebrows with the inclusion of Gurdip Bath, a St Kitts and Nevis diplomatic citizen, as part of his official team at the just-concluded United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Mr. Bath was there in the capacity of PM Drews Advisor. The public didnt see this coming. There was never any public announcement by either PM Dr. Drew, or his Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Marcus Natta about Baths role in the new Labour government. Bath was implicated in an alleged kidnapping ruse, raising numerous questionable concerns since he left India and took up residence in the Caribbean. Kittitians and Nevisians and other senior regional figures have been blind-sided by the mans surprising appointment. Is the PMs strange silence linked to the fact that the former Indian national had a similar role under the Dr Timothy Harris Team Unity administration? Has the Drew government gagged itself because of mortal fears of an expected public backlash? Bath, we recall, was Harris advisor at the time the then PM was ensnared in a litany of corruption allegations resulting in several of his ministers quitting the coalition in disgust triggering the precipitous collapse of his seven-year-old unity government. Despite his reluctance, the former St Kitts and Nevis PM reluctantly called early polls and was runner-up to Drew. Already there are rumbles in Basseterre that Bath, has craftily adopted chameleon characteristics and has hoodwinked the rookie prime minister Dr Drew in his net. Many fear the worst and begin predicting an impending disaster for the 39-year-old independent twin-island Federation and are also forecasting many troubles for PM politically, and personally. Knowledgeable persons express anxieties that Bath is helping shape vital domestic and foreign policies for Basseterre and are frightened by the real prospects of looming political and economic catastrophe for the CARICOM state. For many, Drews appointment of Bath defies logic. This is a questionable matter. The people of St Kitts and Nevis need to know the truth. No possible common sense can be made of this, a citizen alarmed by the development, complained in a recent interview. It certainly has a number of negative ramifications for not only this young new government but the country as a whole, the concerned resident noted. Whats in it for Bath the holder of a St Kitts and Nevis diplomatic passport? Whats in it for Basseterre? What calculations have Drew made causing him to settle firmly on this obvious risk? Reliable sources confirmed that Bath is also integrally involved with the operations of the financially-sound Citizenship By Investment (CBI) programme which helps rake invaluable resources to spur the countrys national development thrust. Many fear too, that Baths presence will prove toxic for the CBI initiative and cast a pall of gloom over future beneficiaries since his name was called as a co-conspirator in one of the biggest kidnapping-related international schemes last year. Mehul Choksi, a jeweler, alleged that he was kidnapped in Antigua and Barbuda where he has been living there since January 2018. He reportedly was kidnapped on May 23rd, 2021 when he showed up in Dominica battered and bruised. The matter gained international notoriety as India wanted Choksi extradited. His lawyer based in India, Vijay Aggarwal, has noted: Truth always comes out in the end, no matter how hard anyone tries to stop it or hide it. Lies are just temporary delays to the inevitable. It was extremely insensitive for some people to call injuries on my client Mr. Mehul Choksi to be fake because of some legal strategy. In a statement published via www.indianexpress.com, a spokesperson for Choksi said, Mr. Choksi is pleased that the Dominican Government has today dropped all charges against him for unlawful entry in May 2021. By doing so, they now recognize that there was never any case against him. Mr. Choksi was forcibly removed from Antigua against his will by agents of the Indian State, viciously assaulted, and taken to Dominica by boat, where he was again unlawfully handed over to authorities for an offense he never committed, the spokesperson said. Choksi claimed he was abducted from Antigua and Barbuda, allegedly by Indian agents, and forcibly taken to Dominica in a yacht Dominica is an island nation to the south of Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean. Bath was named as one of three conspirators. In a detailed report published via www.thetimesofindia.com, it noted that Bath was traveling on a Kittitian Diplomatic passport, checked in to Cocobay Hotel on May 19, 2021, and stayed in Room # 53 When Mr. Bath checked into Cocobay he initially reported that he was alone. but the hotel staff reported subsequently seeing him in the company of a female, believed to be Barbara Jarabik. He checked out on the morning of 22/5/21 but later returned that said day and checked in (Room #29) for an additional day. On several occasions, while staying at the hotel he requested a taxi service (Tx 441) to go to Jolly Harbour. On the last occasion 23/5/21, a taxi (Tx 1390) took him to Epicurean Supermarket where he arrived at about 11:15 AM and was picked up by a tall, burly man of Indian descent in a white Hyundai Creta, R3539. The vehicle, which came from inside North Finger returned there with Mr. Bath. The vehicle never left again until 18:46 after Mr. Choksi would have been abducted. The report noted further that At 19:43 Mr. Bath, Barbara Jarabik, and Leslie Farrow-Guy left Antigua on an Executive Air charter flight (8P-EAL) and traveled to Dominica. They arrived at about 20:40 and the plane then continued with only its pilots to Barbados where it is based. The said aircraft had arrived in Antigua on Saturday 22nd May 2021 carrying only its pilots and was scheduled to leave. on the 23rd May 2021 at 16:20 PM but never left until 7:20 PM, the report said. It said Bath entered Antigua a month earlier, ostensibly on a recce. On 14th April 2021, Mr. Bath and Ms. Jarabik traveled together to Antigua from Dominica on a private charter flight (#N362MC) they checked into Blue Waters Hotel at 15:21 hours .and stayed together in Room 406. On 15th April 2021 at 17:13 they checked out from the said hotel then departed Antigua together. Given Baths high-profile appointment, one must ask: Who is helping PM Drew vet his appointees? Although there is no information available as to whether Bath was charged and or convicted, the Drew government can ill-afford characters links with characters bearing such questionable histories. He can prove a lightning rod for the new labour administration. Here are our initial queries for PM Drew. 1. What is Baths expertise and what specific areas does he provide advice for the relatively new PM? 2. Is it a five-year contract? When did it take effect? 3. Why has the PM kept the public in the dark about the Bath advisor contract? 4. Was the PM aware of the Baths history? Who is helping the PM scrutinize potential appointees? There are documented police reports to help with critically-needed information. 5. Since the UNGA meeting, what has the Cabinet Secretary still mum on Bath? 6. Is Bath luring PM Drew down the same rabbit hole Dr. Harris wandered along like a lamb to the slaughter which eventually triggered the spectacular collapse of his administration a mere 2 years after his reelection? We, the people, want to know. But the more I find out, the less I know according to the popular Johnny Nash anthem. PM Drew owes the people of the Federation an urgent explanation about Baths appointment and a justification for his administrations silence on the matter so far. Nothing else is acceptable. Authors name withheld upon request. PHILIPSBURG:--- Last Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, the Police Force was visited by a student from St. Dominic School. Student Elijah K Browne was assigned a school project and chose to work on the functioning of the Police Force of St. Maarten. This project was about the organization and responsibilities of the police force and the different departments. The management team of KPSM takes this opportunity to thank the Personnel of the St. Dominic School and the Family Elijah to have chosen the Police of St. Maarten for his project and wish him all the best in his future studies. KPSM Press Release. ~Council of State Member: Caribbean Dutch citizens are European citizens and have such rights~ PHILIPSBURG:--- Leader of the United Peoples Party MP Rolando Brison brought forward at the Interparliamentary Kingdom Meetings (IPKO) the concern of thousands of St. Maarteners that local banks are not providing many citizens with timely bank accounts and proper services, which is in contravention of European law. The topic was brought forward by the MP during the presentation from the Council of State regarding the application of Treaties and European Union law to the islands of the Kingdom. In preparing for this debate, my focus was centered on the European Directive 2014/92 which states that all citizens of European Union Citizens have the right of timely access to at least a basic bank account. While it is unfortunate that the banks have for years ignored this directive, something they could choose to voluntarily apply, it was encouraging to hear from the Council of State members that the Union Right of Dutch citizens in the Caribbean countries cannot be ignored as per the Treaty of Lisbon, explained Brison. Brison was referring to the European Directive that outlines the banking rights of consumers. In this directive, Article 16.1 states that Member States shall ensure that payment accounts with basic features are offered to consumers by all credit institutions or a sufficient number of credit institutions to guarantee access thereto for all consumers in their territory. Additionally, it states under Article 16.2 The Member States shall ensure that the exercise of the right is not made too difficult or burdensome for the consumer. The Member States shall ensure that credit institutions offering [basic bank accounts] without undue delay and at the latest 10 business days after receiving a complete application. We can see clearly in St. Maarten that the part of the law most ignored by banks is where it states clearly: opening a bank account should not be made too difficult or burdensome for the consumer. Neither is the 10-day time frame for opening a bank account nowhere near a reality, Brison. In response to the question, Mr. Comenencia, a member of the Kingdom Council of State, noted that he is familiar with the problem. The Council of State also received an initiative draft from a Dutch MP to guarantee all citizens within the kingdom the right to a bank account. It seems quite complicated, especially according to the banking sector, stated Mr. Comenencia. The law referred to is from D66 Second Chamber MP Joost Sneller, which is still in the advisory phase. Brison concurred with the Council of State member and agreed that it is the banking sector in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom that is showing resistance to such legislation being applied. This is what we experience in St. Maarten as well, and why we have taken the step to create local legislation to address the problem since St. Maarten banks are choosing to not apply the European directive of their own accord, stated Brison. Mr. Schrijver, another member of the Council of State, also responded to MP Brison, saying that EU laws are generally also applicable to overseas territories, especially human rights laws. He said that the right to a basic bank account seems to be treated as an exception to this norm. This is where we are not quite in agreement with the [Dutch] government: We say "realize now that the European Community has evolved into a European Union and that you can't always say "no, this only applies to the European Netherlands," stated Mr. Schrijver. Brison explained that while observing the refusal of banks to comply with European directives, the MP, who has made legislating his top priority since entering Parliament, did not want to sit still and thus opted to draft a local Consumer banking protection law that mirrors the Dutch Kingdoms Financial sector oversight law. The draft law has been handed over to the Minister of Finance as per the motion of January 24, 2022. It has been vetted by the Central Bank and is making its way to Parliament. This is the work of Members of Parliament, which the United Peoples Party Faction will continue to make its central focus. When we bring laws, it changes peoples lives for the better. This law will forever improve the way we do banking in St. Maarten. Brison also proposed the topic of local banking, international corresponding banking and the unjust blacklisting of Dutch Caribbean countries be its own agenda point at the next IPKO in the Netherlands. Brison proposes that the Dutch Central Bank which oversees the right to basic bank accounts in the Netherlands present to IPKO, as well as D66 MP Joost Sneller whose legislation mirrors that of MP Brison, though from a Kingdom perspective. This is definitely a Kingdom Relations Issue. If we are equal partners in the Kingdom, there should also be equal rights. One thing the Kingdom must also consider from the Council of State advice that was discussed at IPKO, is that according to their advice, the Member State (the Kingdom of the Netherlands) can be held financially responsible towards the European Union for European directives not being carried out fully within the state, including overseas territories, concluded Brison. POINTE BLANCHE:--- Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) Norwegian Getaway has canceled its port call for Tuesday, October 4th due to the passing of Hurricane Ian and its impact on Florida. Norwegian Getaway was scheduled to depart Port Canaveral on September 29 on a nine-night voyage. Other destinations impacted by the cancellation are Great Stirrup Cay, Antigua, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and the Dominican Republic. A number of cruise lines have altered their planned itineraries at homeports such as Port Miami, Everglades, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Baltimore, due to the passing of major Hurricane Ian and the damage that it has caused throughout certain parts of Florida. Welcome To SpoilerTV We bring you a comprehensive and up to date spoiler service on all the major US TV shows and Movies. You can find specific show content by clicking the menu system at the top of the screen. We scour the Internet for spoilers as well as posting our own exclusive spoilers (Scripts, Casting Calls, Set Photos etc) as well as recaps and other fun articles and polls. We hope you enjoy your stay. New York (United Nations), 3 October 2022 (SPS) - Member of the National Secretariat of the Polisario Front, Representative of the Polisario Front to the United Nations and Coordinator with MINURSO, Dr. Sidi Mohamed Omar, held a meeting with Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations. The meeting took place at the headquarters of the United Nations Secretariat and discussed issues related to the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), pending the consultations to be held by the Security Council in the mid of this month on the extension of the mandate of the mission, which expires on October 31, 2022. The representative of the Polisarion Front briefed the UN official about the position of the Polisario Front on these and other related issues in light of the collapse of the 1991 ceasefire following the Moroccan occupation state carried out its aggressive action on the liberated Sahrawi territories on November 13, 2020, which led to the resumption of the legitimate armed struggle of the Sahrawi people. During the last visit of the UN Secretary General's personal envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, the Polisario Front affirmed that the Sahrawi side remains strongly committed to its right to resort to all legitimate means, including the armed struggle, to defend the sacred and non-negotiable rights of the Sahrawi people to freedom and independence, while leaving the path of peaceful settlement open, provided that the Sahrawi people can exercise its inalienable right to self-determination and independence in accordance with the principles of international legality and the relevant resolutions of the UN and the African Union (AU). 062/T The General Inspectorate of the Border Police informs in a statement sent to AGERPRES on Monday, that on Sunday, 94,858 people entered Romania, through border points throughout the country, of which 8,914 were Ukrainian citizens, a decrease of about 16% compared to the previous day. According to the source, approximately 191,200 people, Romanian and foreign citizens, with over 46,400 means of transport, passed through the border points throughout the country, both inbound and outbound. As of February 10, 2022 (pre-conflict period), 2,483,694 Ukrainian citizens entered our country. On Sunday, 13 foreign citizens who did not meet the conditions provided by the law were not allowed to enter the country, and 16 Romanian citizens were not allowed to leave for various legal reasons. Arrivals in Romania's tourist accommodation establishments in August 2022 totaled 1.706 million, 1.4 percent down year-over-year, the National Institute of Statistics (INS) said on Monday, told Agerpres. Romanian tourists accounted for 89 percent of this figure. The net occupancy rate for tourist accommodation units in August was 45.4 percent overall, 3 percent down from August 2021. Arrivals in tourist accommodation establishments over January 1 - August 31, 2022 totaled 7.613 million, marking an 18.3 percent increase compared to the year-ago period. Romanian tourists accounted for 86.9 percent of this total, while foreign tourists accounted for the rest of 13.1 percent. British Secretary of State for Europe Leo Docherty is on an official visit to Bucharest on Monday to reaffirm the UK's commitment to protecting European security and strengthening close relations with Romania, the Embassy of the United Kingdom informs. According to the cited source, as a sign of solidarity with a "key" NATO ally, the British Secretary of State for Europe will hail the close cooperation with Romania in the field of regional defence and the continuous support to Ukraine in response to the war waged against it by the Russian Federation, told Agerpres. The UK and Romania are important NATO allies, acting in close coordination with international partners, who firmly oppose Putin's brutal attack on Ukraine's sovereignty. I am glad to be in Bucharest to discuss strengthening our security cooperation and to reaffirm our unwavering support to Ukraine, Leo Docherty said before the visit, according to a release from the diplomatic mission. In Bucharest, the British Secretary of State will meet with the Foreign Ministry's Secretaries of State for European Affairs and Strategic Affairs Daniela Gitman and Iulian Fota, with the chairs of the Select Committees on Defence, Security and Foreign Affairs, Nicoleta Pauliuc, Angel Tilvar and Titus Corlaatean, respectively, as well as with Secretary of State George Serban from the Ministry of Justice. The British official also has scheduled talks with British officers of the NATO force in Romania, as well as with representatives of British companies. President Klaus Iohannis signed on Monday the decree by which Ligia Deca was appointed education minister. Also, the head of state signed the decree regarding the release of Ligia Deca from the position of presidential adviser.According to the Presidential Administration, the swearing-in ceremony by the new education minister will take place on Monday at 6.00 pm at the Cotroceni Palace.The National Political Bureau of the National Liberal Party (PNL) decided, on Monday, that the proposal for the position of education minister is Ligia Deca.Sorin Cimpeanu resigned from this position last Thursday.On Friday, President Klaus Iohannis signed the decree by which the Minister of Research, Innovation and Digitization, Sebastian Burduja, was appointed interim education minister. Education is a nation's investment for the future, and the leadership of the National Defence Ministry considers that people are the most valuable resource, Defence Minister Vasile Dincu stated on Monday in a message on the occasion of the opening of the new academic year. "I have no doubt that I am addressing those who represent the future of the Romanian Army. Your mission, of every first-cycle, master's or doctoral student, is without doubt difficult but noble. You have the duty to prepare, to train, to improve yourselves for becoming those leaders that our army needs in the near future. The high trust the Romanians put into the military will have to be strengthened and confirmed by the exceptional results we expect from your generation," Dincu said, told Agerpres. He asked the students to show responsibility in training to become members of the military with a modern vision, with a winner's mentality, ready to take on the missions that will be entrusted to them in a complex and unpredictable regional and global security environment which poses new challenges to military strategists. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. The explosions of three car bombs killed least 20 people, and wounded 36 others in the central Somali town of Beledweyne on Monday. The al-Shabab militant group claimed responsibility for the attack. The German Embassy in Bucharest is organizing, on Monday, a series of festivities to mark the Day of German Unity, under the motto "30 years of Romanian-German friendship and partnership in Europe". The event, which marks the reunification of Germany on October 3, 1990, following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War, will be attended by President Klaus Iohannis and Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca. For us Germans, this reunification represents a historic opportunity, which would not have been possible without our close partners and friends in Europe and the United States of America. Brave women and men from the then GDR and from many countries in Eastern Europe, including here in Romania, contributed decisively to the fall of the Iron Curtain. We owe them our gratitude, said Ambassador Peer Gebauer, according to a press release sent by the diplomatic mission, told Agerpres. The Embassy also reminded that 2022 is also the anniversary of the Romanian-German Friendship Treaty of April 21, 1992, which still represents the foundation of close political, economic and cultural cooperation in a united Europe. I am glad that we managed to celebrate this anniversary year of friendship through a series of high-level political visits. The visit of the Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on May 4, 2022 was of course the highlight, but also the visit of the President of the Bundesrat Bodo Ramelow, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Annalena Baerbock, and numerous other ministers and parliamentarians highlighted how close our partnership has become and how much we value Romania as an important partner in the European Union and within NATO. This is all the more important after February 24, 2022: Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, in violation of the provisions of international law, marks a turning point in the history of Europe, Peer Gebauer added. The German Embassy "firmly" condemned this "flagrant" violation of international legal order. Russia must not win this war. Therefore, we will continue to support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, together with our partners from the European Union, NATO and the international community, as much as it will be necessary. In these difficult times we must be in solidarity in Europe and not let ourselves be divided by Russia. I especially thank Romania for its remarkable support given to refugees from Ukraine and for its constructive role in Europe, in the military consolidation of NATO's Eastern Flank and in the coordination of humanitarian convoys for Ukraine, as well as for the joint support given to the Republic of Moldova, said Gebauer. According to him, the Romanian-German partnership includes much more than the political sphere, especially the "excellent" economic relations. Germany is Romania's most important commercial partner, where more than 7,500 German companies are successfully operating, providing added value and qualified jobs, the ambassador added. He also mentioned the close social and cultural ties, an essential role in this regard belonging to the German minority in Romania, as well as to the increasing number of Romanian citizens in Germany, who represent an important bridge between societies. The development policy of the Romanian pharmaceutical industry must result in a programmatic document, Health Minister Alexandru Rafila said on MOnday, adding that a working group was established which "does not necessarily relate to the drugs crisis, but to a policy" in the field. "The price policy and the development policy of the pharmaceutical industry (...) I think must result in a programmatic document that we have to put forth," said the minister. He mentioned the lack of interest of some manufacturers or distributors in carrying certain medicines and the disappearance of some products from Romania that went to "parallel export." "The drug policy is a policy that makes two things possible - affordability of drugs, on the one hand, from the point of view of the price that the government or people pay for the drugs, and the second thing, equally important, is that it keeps drugs on the market and there needs to be a balance that keeps drugs on the market. That balance in the case of many missing drugs is no longer there and we need to fix that legislatively and it will certainly go beyond the Ministry of Health , the level of legislative decision, either to the level of the government or to the level of Parliament, so that we can secure medicines for the market", told Agerpres. Romania was confirmed for its eighth consecutive mandate as a member of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council on behalf of Region C (Eastern Europe and Northern Asia), having received the most votes at the elections organized, on Monday, at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-22), in Bucharest, told Agerpres. For one of the five available seats in the ITU Council, Romania, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, the Russian Federation and Poland entered the race for a new four-year mandate. Following the votes cast for the candidate states for a seat in the Council for Region C, the results were as follows: Romania garnered 160 votes, Azerbaijan (154 votes), Poland (138), Bulgaria (137), Czech Republic (134), the Russian Federation (73) and Belarus (44). Romania, which has held this seat in the Council for 28 years, submitted its candidacy for the eighth consecutive term in the ITU Council, in April of this year. Following the approval, at the Government meeting of April 3, 2019, of the Memorandum with the title "Approval of the submission of Romania's candidacy for the organization of PP-22", our country officially presented its candidacy at the works of the ITU Council in Geneva, from June 10 to 20 2019, with the unanimous agreement of the 48 member states represented in the Council. The Ministry of Energy supports the conclusion by producers of long-term bilateral contracts, directly to industrial consumers or to suppliers of final customers, said the Energy Minister Virgil Popescu on Monday. He was asked what his opinion is about the transaction initiated by Nuclearelectrica regarding the conclusion of a bilateral contract, with the price of 450 RON per MWh, told Agerpres. "As a signal in the market, it seems to me that there should not be higher prices during the entire period of application of the ordinance, on bilateral contracts, whether they are contracts on the stock exchange or off the stock exchange. It seems to me a market signal," said Popescu, during the conference "Challenges in the energy crisis", organized by Profit.ro. The minister stated that currently no energy is being sold for the year 2023 because, according to Gov't Emergency Ordinance (OUG) 119, producers have until November 1 to approve their medium-term sales strategies, four to five years. "Have a little patience, you will see contracts for 2023 until the end of the year. I think we will see lower prices in these contracts directly with the industry or with suppliers who have end customers in their portfolio," the government official said. Regarding the amendment approved by the Senate to OUG 119, according to which the producers must sell 70% of the production through bilateral contracts, he stated: "I saw the provision, I cannot comment on that percentage of 70%, I think that there we must see together with the authority. But I support bilateral, long-term contracts, with as large a quantity as possible, directly to the industry and directly to the suppliers who have end customers in their portfolio. This is clear, it is a certainty that we support precisely to have predictability." Former presidential Adviser Ligi Deca took the oath of office as Minister of Education, before President Klaus Iohannis, in a ceremony that was held at the Cotroceni Palace on Monday. The head of state signed on Monday the decree releasing Ligia Deca from the presidential advisor office and appointing her as the new Education Minister.Previously, the National Liberal Party's (PNL) National Political Bureau decided to propose Ligia Deca for the Minister of Education office.Former Education Minister Sorin Cimpeanu resigned from office last Thursday. The number of tourists who chose local day trips has increased by over 60 percent in the past two years, shows information published by the representatives of an agency in the industry. "Romanians developed a taste for one-day trips in the first 'free' months of 2020 and the trend picked up steam in 2021. In 2022, following the substantial increase in demand, the travel agencies that had this product on offer had to introduce new routes, original programs that combine visits to ancient fortresses with stops at monasteries and the exploration of new places, with local traditions and crafts, wine tastings and fishermen or traditional Romanian breakfasts; all these tours and trails are very popular with Romanians, this time as new products tagged as a 'One-day Experience'. In the last two years marked by the pandemic, the number of tourists who chose local day trips increased by over 60 percent. For instance, the local outings into the eastern region of Dobrogea organized by Mistral Tours in these years highlighted Dobrogea's wineries, ancient fortresses, the traditional Dobrogean farms and households, the local cuisine that is very much based on fish and fish products, but also the Dobrogean or Macedonian pie or the Tatar meat-filled 'kobete'; they rely on local traditions and customs, including those of the Lipovans or Turks, and on participation in local festivals and events, wherever the authorities and organizers have also included opening to tourists in their plans," said Corina Martin of Mistral Tours & Events Constanta in a press statement, told Agerpres. The list of tourist attractions also includes visits to the monasteries of Dobrogea or to local households and businesses in order to cultivate the traditional local spirit and Dobrogean communities. According to the cited source, the "Danube Delta Day Cruise" tops the Romanians' preferences, having been a best-seller for over 20 years now. Corina Marin also says that new circuits have been developed since 2021, which highlight the Macin Mountains, the Dobrogea Gorges, the Histria and Gabai wineries, the citadels of Argamum, Enisala and Histria, experiences at the traditional farm "Dobrogea Souvenir" in Visina, the guesthouses and fish processing utilities in Enisala, Lunca, Jurilovca, Corbu or Olimp, the Rose Farm, the Jurilovca Fish Borscht Festival or the perch fishing contest at Mila 23. More than 29 tons of plastic and glass waste loaded in Greece, respectively Turkey for commercial companies from Romania were stopped by the border police at the entrance to the country, through southern Giurgiu border crossing point. The waste was in two vehicles driven by two Romanian citizens. The glass waste, loaded from Greece and the plastic waste, loaded from Turkey, were intended for companies in Romania, informs a press release from the Giurgiu Border Police, told Agerpres. Since the transfer documents were incomplete and the legal provisions in force were not respected, the competent authorities did not allow the means of transport to enter Romania, and the waste was returned to the sending companies. Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca conveyed, on Monday, on the occasion of the start of the new academic year 2022-2023, that university education is on the Government's list of priorities, adding that the Romanian education system is in full transformation process, and the amendments brought by the National Education Laws reflect "a future-oriented vision", told Agerpres. "We have every reason to believe in the potential of our youth. (...) The outstanding results achieved in international competitions will certainly help them in the career that everyone aspires to, and our concern is to ensure a future for them in the country," the prime minister said. Ciuca mentioned that the deep changes at the global level triggered the adaptation to future perspectives, to the new reality, including in the field of education, and this requires "a responsible and assumed vision at all decision-making levels", in order to provide children and young people with conditions of study to high standards. "We are in the process of transforming the Romanian education system, and the amendments we are bringing through the National Education Laws reflect a future-oriented vision. The integration of future graduates into the labor market is their first step in their career, and their professional path depends on this moment. The connection with their potential employers ever since the years of study can boost the level of performance, but also the ability to adapt to the labor market, and this can best be done through the collaboration of educational institutions with economic operators active in the market. The government encourages this approach and, in this sense, we have expanded the dual vocational education at the university level," the prime minister also conveyed. "Romania needs a strong education system, adapted to the present generation and capable of responding to the challenges of the future! What we want, at the level of the Government, is that the standards of Romanian education keep pace with the times and provide you with the knowledge you need so that you can bring out your creativity, skill and professional ambitions," the prime minister also said. Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca stated on Monday that all the procedural matters related to Ukraine's accession to NATO are "time-consuming" and "they must be made in the logic in which they were made for the other states," mentioning that it is important for Ukraine to benefit from support to be able to withstand the war effort. "Since the beginning, Romania has endorsed all the demarches which Ukraine made. In this moment, I believe it's very important to focus on what needs to be done so that Ukraine benefit from support and be able to withstand its war effort. The other procedural issues related to the accession to the North Atlantic Organisation are time-consuming and I believe they must be made in the logic in which they were made for the other states," PM Ciuca stated, when asked about Romania's standpoint regarding this topic.Ukraine will sign an accelerated accession request to NATO, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Friday, a few minutes after Russia formalized the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, the Agence France-Presse (AFP) mentions. Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca states that he will support Ligia Deca, the new Minister of Education, in finalizing the Educated Romania project, so that the new education laws reach Parliament by the end of the month. "The new Minister of Education, Ligia Deca, will have my full support and that of the Government for the continuation of investment projects in education and for the finalization of the Educated Romania project, so that the new education laws reach Parliament by the end of this month," the prime minister sent on Monday, on the Facebook page of the Executive.He wished success to Ligia Deca in her new position."The solid experience and the substantial contribution to the debates occasioned by this project will provide added value to the reforms needed to modernize the education system, so that every child and young person has a chance at education," Nicolae Ciuca added.Former presidential adviser Ligia Deca took the oath of office as Minister of Education, in front of President Klaus Iohannis, in a ceremony that took place at the Cotroceni Palace on Monday.Ligia Deca was proposed for this position by the National Political Bureau of the National Liberal Party (PNL).The last holder of the Education portfolio, Sorin Cimpeanu, resigned last Thursday. In addition, the Head of State reiterated the Executive Branch's willingness to carry out joint actions. "In my capacity as President of the Republic, I congratulate district councilors, mayors, regional councilors, and governors, in whom the people have placed their trust," he stated. "The Government is committed to the outgoing and incoming authorities," he said, noting that he hopes the former will work until the last day in office and the latter will meet expectations. Llegamos a Amazonas para seguir trabajando en los proyectos que beneficien al pueblo. pic.twitter.com/YxxXHHITpJ As many as 649 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were recorded in the last 24 hours in Romania, by 205 more than on the previous day, on over 8,200 RT-PCR and rapid antigenic tests performed, the Health Ministry informed on Monday. Of the new cases, 145 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 - 141, and in the counties of Timis - 43, Cluj - 38, and Hunedoara - 37, told Agerpres. The 14-day COVID-19 notification rate is highest in Cluj County - at 1.49, followed by Timis County and Bucharest, with 1.46 and 1.39 respectively. As of Monday, 3,270,591 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus were confirmed in Romania. - Hospitalisations - As many as 1,400 people with COVID-19 are hospitalised at specialist care facilities across the country, by 57 more than on the day before; 100 of this total are children, by seven more than on the previous day. Out of the total number of hospitalised patients, 123 are in ICUs. Of the ICU patients, 115 are unvaccinated for COVID-19. - Deaths - According to the Ministry, three Covid deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours - a man and two women. One fatality was in the 60 - 69 age category, one in the 70 - 79 age category, and one in the 80+ age range. All the deceased patients suffered from underlying conditions and none of them was vaccinated for Covid. Since the beginning of the pandemic, 67,034 people diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 infection have died in Romania. The number of new car registrations increased in Romania by 8pct, in the first nine months of this year, compared to the same period in 2021, according to the data published by the Directorate for Driving Licenses and Vehicle Registration (DRPCIV), quoted on Monday by the Romanian Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACAROM), told Agerpres. In September 2022, the official statistics showed that new car registrations went up by 33.38pct compared to the same month of 2021, namely a volume of 11,927 units. According to the quoted source, in the first nine months of 2022, the same car registrations reached 95,276 units, increasing by 7.94pct compared to the similar period of last year, when 88,262 units were recorded. In the ranking of new car brands registered in Romania between January and September 2022, Dacia ranks 1st with 27,709 registered units, followed by Toyota - with 7,802 units, Hyundai (7,473 units), Ford (6,845 units), Skoda (6,405 units), Volkswagen (6,136 units), Renault (5,429 units), Peugeot (2,802 units), Mercedes (2,669 units). In respect to the registrations of used cars, registered for the first time in Romania, their volume reached 28,579 units in September 2022, decreasing by 18.63pct compared to September 2021. On the same segment, but in the first nine months of 2022, car registrations, at national level, reached 241,992 units, decreasing by 20.69pct compared to the similar period of last year (305,140 units). The National Council of Students called on President Klaus Iohannis and Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca to appoint a new Minister of Education who should be a person "of integrity", whose professional skills cannot be questioned and who can stay away from any political interference and understand the need of implementing a "real" and "courageous" reform. "The National Council of Students called on the Prime Minister and the President of Romania to treat with the utmost responsibility the situation in which we find ourselves and to appoint, in the shortest possible time, a new minister who meets the following criteria: to be a person of integrity, whose professional skills cannot be called into question not even for a second, a person with a well-defined vision of how the education system should look in the future, a person who can stay away from any political interference that affects education even now, a person who understands the need to implement a real and courageous reform in the system and, last but not least, to be a person who understands the need for a solid partnership with the most important stakeholders involved in the educational act: students, teachers and parents," the organization conveyed in a press release sent to AGERPRES on Monday. "For four days, education has not had a minister with full powers, who can be actively involved in solving the most serious problems that the system is facing in this period: the implementation of the legislative reform related to the 'Educated Romania' program, the provision of the necessary budgetary resources to offer free transport for commuter students and, last but not least, solving the obstacles caused by the energy crisis, which calls into question how schools will function this winter," explained the National Council of Students., told Agerpres. Sorin Cimpeanu resigned last Thursday from the position of Minister of Education. A few days ago, the journalist Emilia Sercan had accused Cimpeanu of plagiarizing a university course and of "fraudulently appropriating the authorship" of several chapters previously signed by other authors. The Rector of the University of Oradea, Constantin Bungau, on Monday, on the occasion of the opening of the academic year, that this University in the Bihor County has became a full member of the European Group of University Alliances EU Green European Network, along with eight other universities from eight countries. "We are eager for internationalization. And we are on the right path. Starting this year, we are part of the European group of university alliances, the EU Green European Network, as a full member, not as an associate member, together with eight universities from Ireland, Poland, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Italy, France and Sweden, universities that promote European values and the European identity. EU Green is revolutionizing the quality and competitiveness of the member universities. The alliance reflects the ambition of the European Union to build the European space of education," stated rector Constantin Bunga, told Agerpres. He stated that, in this way, the Oradea university acquired a European certification, a guarantee for quality and prestige. At the same time, this alliance of universities benefits from priority access to European funding, for strategic projects 2022-2029, both for research and for university management. "It positions us, implicitly Oradea and Bihor, on the international arena. It provides greater visibility and any investor in the region will approach with respect the triplet of enterprises - university - local governance. It expands the collaborations of our university and its partners at all levels. We become a university more competitive, more attractive for the third countries of Europe, a point of reference for innovative cooperation. We will be a creator of knowledge through European teams to face the great societal challenges," argued Constantin Bungau. The Oradea-based university manages 53 bachelor's fields within 101 programmes, 43 master's fields, 66 programmes and 18 doctoral fields. The teaching activity is supported by the 869 holders, to which are added 64 doctoral university assistants and 111 associate teaching staff. The rector continued by stating that the university, in order to respond to new and future challenges, will deploy, in the next three years, non-reimbursable funds of 30 million lei to support the digitalization strategy of the educational, research or management process. He urged the students to enroll in the Erasmus programmes, which benefit from more than one million lei, the largest amount in the country, which is added to the EU Green budget of over 1.2 million lei for internationalization. For the future, Rector Bungau emphasized that, in addition to the didactic activity, the institution will be more involved in supporting local companies, making the university's expertise and resources available through: research and technological transfer, through the more consistent involvement of doctoral and master's students, programsme of entrepreneurial development, both for students and teaching staff, promoting applied research with industry, implementing dual university education, supporting EU and cross-border development initiatives in Oradea and Bihor. Last but not least, the University of Oradea aims to create networks, hubs and partnerships with agencies and organizations at regional, national and international level. The vast majority of gas purchased from the Black Sea will be supplied to Romanian consumers and only the surplus will be exported, Eric Stab, CEO of Engie Romania, said on Monday, during the "Challenges in the energy crisis" conference, told Agerpres. "In November 2018, Engie signed a 10-year contract with Black Sea Oil and Gas, because we are a large supplier in Romania. Without this contract, the investors would not have made the final investment decision in that project, the project would not have been implemented and we would not have seen this gas on the market," Stab said. "We are a large supplier of gas to Romanian domestic and industrial customers. If there is sufficient demand, the gas will go to Romanian consumers. If there is no demand in Romania, the only solution is to export it, but the vast majority of gas will remain here in Romania," the Engie representative also said in the conference organized by Profit.ro. Vista Bank completed the merger with Credit Agricole Romania, consequently holding assets worth 1.6 billion euros, the bank informs in a press release sent to AGERPRES on Monday. At the same time, after the merger, Vista Bank will have loans of 900 million euros and deposits of 1.4 billion euros. "The completion of the Credit Agricole Romania integration is an important step for the consolidation of Vista Bank in the Romanian banking system, in line with our accelerated growth strategy. We have become a stronger, more efficient and more competitive banking institution, with an increased capacity to offer our existing and future clients superior quality services and an improved banking experience," said Georgios Athanasopoulos, CEO of Vista Bank, told Agerpres. Vista Bank has been present in Romania since 1998, previously known as Marfin Bank. Through the takeover in July 2018 by a new shareholder, one of the largest industrial conglomerates in South-Eastern Europe, the bank experienced an important consolidation at the business, management and strategy level. Vista Bank offers financial solutions to medium and large legal entity clients, as well as to individual clients with above-average incomes. Credit Agricole Romania has a network of 14 branches, total assets of 535 million euros, deposits of 410 million euros and loans of 395 million euros. The Flying Pig will soar again. The acclaimed Filipino-American restaurant Guerrilla Street Food will return under new owners. Rachel and Arnold Alcantara have purchased Guerrilla Street Food from founders Joel Crespo and Brian Hardesty, the restaurant announced Friday. Crespo and Hardesty have also agreed to advise the Alcantaras as they relaunch Guerrilla Street Food. We couldnt be more thrilled to see the Guerrilla Street Food legacy continue on, and sharing this news during Filipino-American History Month couldnt be more perfect! Crespo said in a statement. The Alcantaras recently relocated to St. Louis from Arnolds native Hawaii. According to the announcement, the couple plans to retain such signature Guerrilla Street Food fare as the chicken adobo and the Flying Pig and also introduce new dishes. The Alcantaras are currently negotiating a lease for Guerrilla Street Foods new location. The Webster Groves storefront will not reopen, Hardesty confirmed. We are overjoyed to be able to live out our dream of owning a restaurant and hope to bring our spirit of Aloha to Missouri through our love of Hawaiis food and culture! Arnold said in a statement. Crespo and Hardesty founded Guerrilla Street Food in 2011 as a food truck. Over the next decade, they expanded the concept to include four brick-and-mortar locations as well as satellite operations inside other venues. By the beginning of 2022, however, Guerrilla Street Food had contracted to the truck and a storefront in Webster Groves. Crespo and Hardesty announced in April that they were putting the operation up for sale. It has been closed since the end of April. Among its acclaim, Guerrilla Street Food has been a mainstay of the STL 100. For various reasons, news about St. Louis Public Schools has dropped from the radar screen since the pandemic hit, but it's time for residents regardless of their parental status to re-engage. The health of the public school system is a key measure of the entire community's health. If schools can't maintain a steady, preferably growing, student population, the surrounding community can quickly gain a reputation as an undesirable place to raise a family. A vicious cycle of decay develops: Property values drop, vacancies grow, employers leave, the tax base declines, and suddenly it becomes difficult if not impossible to turn things around. That's where St. Louis stands right now. It's in everyone's interests to revive St. Louis Public Schools to levels of consistently good performance so that the school system can begin reflecting a positive light on the rest of the city. No one least of all outgoing Superintendent Kelvin Adams, school board President Matt Davis, and Vice President Antoinette Cousins claims the task is simple. An exceedingly steep climb still lies ahead, but they believe there's cause for hope because a lot of headwinds that previously blocked progress are starting to turn in the school district's favor. Adams, Davis and Cousins met with the Editorial Board last week to outline what's going right and what's not. They answered our questions with warts-and-all frankness. There was no sign of sugarcoating the bad or overemphasizing the good, as is too often the case in the political world these days. Serving on any school board might well rank among the most thankless tasks anywhere. In St. Louis, the job is voluntary, which means the elected members are donating their free time and energy to uplift children a task that very often puts them directly in the public firing line. Parents are unhappy with something at school? Complain to the board member. Teachers are unhappy with conditions and pay? Complain to the board. Alumni upset that their old school is slated for closure? Blast the school board. Rare are the times, we suspect, when anyone calls simply to say thank you. And yet the members don't give up. The board's dedication and persistence has yielded some important recent successes, including the Aug. 2 approval by voters of a $160 million bond package that will help upgrade school security and make much-needed repairs and infrastructure improvements. During the final week of this year's regular session, the Legislature approved a bill to direct an additional $62 million in state funding to charter schools a move that will stop the diversion of St. Louis Public Schools funding to pay for (often unjustified) charter school expansions. The charter school networks had an army of lobbyists arguing against the bill and arguing in favor of diverting $18 million in St. Louis district funds to charter schools. Yet lawmakers from both parties recognized the illogic of continuing to financially weaken regular public schools in favor of a charterschool experiment that still is far from proving its worth. The school-choice mantra is slowly turning into a murmur as more and more failed charter schools close their doors. Yet major challenges persist, not least of which will be finding a replacement for Adams, who is retiring after 14 years as superintendent. The 2020 census shows that St. Louis has lost 44,000 school-aged kids a whopping 24% decline since 2010 in contrast to the 6% overall population decline for the city. Roughly 80% of the student population is Black, and Black residents are the single largest group fleeing the city. From 2010 to 2020, St. Louis lost nearly 27,400 Black residents but only 5,334 white residents. Census figures suggest that most of those Black residents moved to St. Charles and St. Louis counties. The district's infrastructure was designed to accommodate a city of 700,000. Enrollment this year stands at around 19,300 students, and about 20% qualify as homeless, which adds additional logistical, financial and educational challenges for the district. Empty and underutilized buildings pose additional drains on precious funds. Some might argue that the school district brought these problems on itself through decades of declining performance that prompted parents to seek alternatives. In some cases, that's true. For years, the elected school board immersed itself in public bickering. Far less time was spent talking about what most benefited the children than on what advanced board members' political agendas. In other respects, the student-population decline was far beyond the district's control. Employers pulled out of St. Louis in droves. Gunand drug-related violent crime skyrocketed. Parents with schoolaged kids began thinking twice about living here. The two top contenders for St. Louis mayor had to sheepishly acknowledge in last year's campaign that they had opted against enrolling their school-aged boys in St. Louis Public Schools. There's a widespread misperception that the schools themselves are unsafe. "I think, for a lot of our families, the securest they are all day is at school absolutely the safest place ," Davis told us. "At the very least, they're gonna get fed, and if they need clothes, we're gonna get them some clothes. To the extent that it's available, if they need other services therapy services we're gonna provide it to them." Adams said the district works not just to get kids from the school to their bus stop but to make sure students get all the way to their houses safely. But what happens inside the home or on the streets outside is beyond the district's control. Teacher retention, which is a problem across the country with teachers leaving the profession in droves, remains among the district's biggest challenges. There are currently 76 unfilled vacancies. Each time a teacher leaves, Adams says it costs the district about $15,000 to vet, hire, process and train a replacement. Some St. Louis-area residents are fond of comparing the perstudent expenditures and performance outcomes in the city with, say, the Ladue or Francis Howell districts. A question about that comparison drew an animated response from Adams. He noted that St. Louis Public Schools has 64 closed buildings, each of which comes with substantial "legacy costs." Around 16% of students qualify as special needs. The district must supply translators for instruction in 38 different languages. There are transportation costs to get kids across town to attend magnet schools. Homeless children must be transported to their schools even if they're temporarily housed outside the city. "I could go on and on and on" about the expenses attached to those requirements, Adams said. But the bottom line is that the essential support network for kids in this urban environment is unlike anything the suburban districts need, which means it's a false analogy to compare outcomes based on per-student expenditures. On the positive side, communication and coordination appears to be improving between members of the Board of Aldermen and the school board. There's still a problem with aldermanic approval of tax-increment financing for developers that serves only to drain public school funding often with a focus on luxuryend residential properties that do nothing to encourage familyfriendly housing expansion. Cousins, who came to the board with decades of housing and urban-development experience, has helped boost the levels of professional expertise necessary to tamp down emotional debates and keep board members focused on productive solutions. Although it's a sore point that Mayor Tishaura Jones didn't consult school board members before appointing her choices to fill two vacant board seats, Davis and Cousins praised the quality of her choices. The elected board, they say, conducts business in a collaborative atmosphere which is a far cry from the kinds of antics that prompted the state to intervene years ago to curtail the board's powers and impose a threeperson Special Administrative Board to govern the district. The challenges remain daunting, but there's good reason to believe a slow, almost imperceptible, turnaround can happen if St. Louisans remain engaged and dedicated to the school system's and the city's revival. Q What would be a good fall cocktail recipe that features something other than pumpkin spice? There are so many other flavors; help me find something different. Peter Keen, St. Louis A We contacted Blood and Sand in downtown St. Louis because its cocktail and food menus change seasonally, highlighting the best of local produce, spirits and beers. Brad Phillips, the beverage director, suggested a cocktail featuring apples, another fall favorite. This fall were releasing 10 new seasonal cocktails, including Criss Cross Steve Lacy. All of our cocktails are named after songs, by the way, Phillips says. The apple-forward drink deftly blends whiskey, local Switchgrass apple brandy and Le Pere Jules Pommeau de Normandie, a unique barrel-aged apple aperitif. Additions of compound cinnamon syrup, lemon juice and turbinado syrup add to the depth of fall flavors. The cocktail is served in a copper mug and garnished with an apple fan and sprigs of mint, perfect complements. The bar and restaurant, which is located in downtown on St. Charles Street, is open to the public, and it also has a membership program for lovers of fine food and drink. Membership includes discount on food as well as a discount on cocktails. It also gets customers first access to special events as well as access to our wine cellar and our spirit cellar, dependent on availability and allocations, of course. We have allotted specific tables for our membership, Phillips says. Weve been open to the public for five years now, but we do suggest reservations during the week, and reservations are required on weekends, he says. When it comes to the food, Blood and Sand keeps everything very seasonal. Our culinary menu changes at a minimum twice a week, depending on the availability of proteins and produce, he says. Menus include a five-course and a 10-course tasting menu, an a la carte dinner menu and a bar menu. The food is fine dining, but the atmosphere, and the dress code, is more relaxed. Jackets are ties are not required. We call our dress code business-smart. Most offices now allow employees to wear jeans to work. We want you to avoid flip flops and beach wear, he says. In other words, Blood and Sand is a fine dining establishment, but it is definitely not stuffy. In the meantime, enjoy the Criss Cross cocktail and put on a little Steve Lacy for the soundtrack. Blood and Sand 1500 St. Charles Street 314-241-7263; bloodandsandstl.com Eds: This story was supplied by The Conversation for AP customers. The Associated Press does not guarantee the content. (THE CONVERSATION) Many major religious pilgrimages have been canceled or curtailed in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. These have included the Hajj, a religious milestone for Muslims the world over; the Hindu pilgrimage, known as the Amarnath Yatra high in the mountains of Kashmir; and pilgrimages to Lourdes in France. Pilgrims have faced travel delays and cancellations for centuries. Reasons ranged from financial hardship and agricultural responsibilities to what is now all too familiar to modern-day pilgrims plague or ill health. Then, as now, one strategy has been to bring the pilgrimage home or into the religious community. Journey of a thousand miles Pilgrimage can be an interior or outward journey and while individual motivations may vary, it can be an act of religious devotion or a way to seek closeness with the divine. Through the centuries and across cultures, those who longed to go on a sacred journey would find alternative ways to do so. Reading travel narratives, tracing a map with the finger or eye, or holding a souvenir brought back from a sacred site helped facilitate a real sense of travel for the homebound pilgrim. Through these visual or material aids, people felt as though they, too, were having a pilgrimage experience, and even connecting with others. One such example is the story of the Dominican friar Felix Fabri, who was known for recording his own pilgrimages in various formats, some geared toward the laity and some for his brothers. Fabri was approached in the 1490s by a group of cloistered nuns, meaning that they had professed vows to lead a contemplative life in the quietude of their community. They desired a devotional exercise so they could receive the spiritual benefits of pilgrimage without having to break their promise of a life that was sheltered from the outside world. He produced Die Sionpilger, a virtual pilgrimage in the form of a day-to-day guidebook to Santiago de Compostela, Jerusalem and Rome. In these cities, pilgrims would encounter sites and scenes associated with many facets of their religion: shrines to honor Jesus and the saints, relics, great cathedrals and sacred landscapes associated with miraculous events and stories. Fabris guidebook sent the pilgrim on an imaginative journey of a thousand miles, without having to take a single step. DIY pilgrimages My current book project shows that from Lourdes to South Africa, from Jerusalem to England, from Ecuador to California, DIY pilgrimages are not just a medieval phenomenon. One such example is Phil Volkers backyard Camino. Volker is a 72-year-old father and now grandfather, woodworker and veteran who mapped the Camino de Santiago onto his backyard in Vashon Island in the Pacific Northwest. Volker prays the rosary as he walks: for those who have been impacted by the pandemic, his family, his neighbors, the world. After a cancer diagnosis in 2013, a few things came together to inspire Volker to build a backyard Camino, including the film The Way, a pocket-sized book of meditations, Everyday Camino With Annie by Annie O'Neil and the story of Eratosthenes, the Greek polymath from the second century B.C. who figured out a way to measure the circumference of the Earth using the Sun, a stick and a well. For me, this guy was the grand godfather of do-it-yourselfers. How can someone pull off this kind of a caper with things at hand in his own backyard? It got me thinking, what else can come out of ones backyard?, he told me. Volker began walking a circuitous route around his 10-acre property on Vashon Island in the Pacific Northwest. It was a chance to exercise, which his doctors had encouraged, but also created a space to think and pray. Each lap around the property is just over a half-mile. Realizing that he was covering quite a distance, he found a map of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route to track his progress, calculating that 909 laps would get him from St. Jean Pied-de-Port to the Cathedral of St. James. To date, Volker has completed three 500-mile Caminos without leaving his backyard. Thanks to a documentary film, Volkers daily blog and an article in the magazine Northwest Catholic, the backyard Camino has attracted many visitors, some simply curious but many who are seeking healing and solace. Pilgrimage and remembrance The story of Volkers backyard Camino inspired Sara Postlethwaite, a sister of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity, to map St. Kevins Way, a 19-mile pilgrimage route in County Wicklow, Ireland onto a series of daily 1.5-mile circuits in Daly City, California. The route rambles along roads and countryside from Hollywood to the ruins of the monastery that St. Kevin, a sixth-century abbot, had founded in Glendalough. Postlethwaite had intended to travel back to her native Ireland in the spring of 2020 to walk the route in person, but due to pandemic-related travel restrictions, she brought the pilgrimage to her home in Daly City. Every so often, Postlethwaite would check in on Google Maps to see where she was along the Irish route, pivoting the camera to see surrounding trees or, at one point, finding herself in the center of an old stone circle. Several joined Postlethwaites walk in solidarity, both in the U.S. and overseas. After each days walk, she paused at the shed at her community house, where she had drawn a to-scale version of the Market Cross at Glendalough. As Postlethwaite traced the intersecting knots, circles and image of the crucified Christ with her chalk, she reflected not just on the suffering caused by the pandemic but also about issues of racism, justice and privilege. In particular, she remembered Ahmaud Arbery, a Black jogger shot by two white men in a fatal confrontation in February 2020. She inscribed his name on the chalk cross. For Berkeley-based artist Maggie Preston, a DIY chalk labyrinth on the street outside her house became a way to connect with her neighbors and her three-year-old son. There is a link here with the medieval strategies for bringing longer pilgrimages into the church or community. Scholars have suggested that labyrinths may have been based on maps of Jerusalem, providing a scaled-down version of a much longer pilgrimage route. They started out by chalking in the places they could no longer go the aquarium, the zoo, a train journey and then created a simple labyrinth formed by a continuous path in seven half-circles. A labyrinth gave us a greater destination, not just somewhere to imagine going, but a circuitous path to literally travel with our feet, she told me. As neighbors discovered the labyrinth, it began to create a genuine sense of community akin to that which many seek to find when they embark on a much longer pilgrimage. Relearn to pretend Volkers cancer has progressed to stage IV and he celebrated his 100th chemo treatment back in 2017, but he is still walking and praying on a regular basis. He offers the following advice: For folks starting their own backyard Camino I think that creating the myth is the most important consideration. Study maps, learn to pronounce the names of the towns, walk in the dust and the mud, be out there in the rain, drink their wine and eat their food, relearn to pretend. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. The Conversation is wholly responsible for the content. Planned Parenthood officials on Monday announced plans for a mobile abortion clinic a 37-foot RV that will stay in Illinois but travel close to the borders of adjoining states that have banned the procedure since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade earlier this year. The announcement came 100 days after the Supreme Court ruling that stripped away constitutional protections for abortions, allowing states to ban the procedure. Illinois didnt institute an abortion ban, but neighboring Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee did, along with several other states in the South and Midwest. As a result, both abortion clinics on the Illinois side of the St. Louis region, including one operated by Planned Parenthood in Fairview Heights, have been inundated with patients. Leaders of the St. Louis Planned Parenthood office said that since June, the Fairview Heights clinic has seen a 30% increase in abortion patients a rate officials said was even higher than they anticipated. Patients from outside Missouri and Illinois increased by more than 340%. The onslaught of patients means longer waits. Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, said abortion appointment wait times have gone from an average of four days prior to the Supreme Court ruling to two-and-a-half weeks. The mobile abortion clinic is a way to reduce travel times and distances in order to meet patients at the Illinois border, said Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthoods St. Louis office. This will make a dramatic impact on their access. The mobile clinic will travel near to the borders of southeastern Missouri, western Kentucky and northeastern Tennessee. Rodriguez said the RV is expected to arrive this month and should be operational by the end of the year. The clinic will include two exam rooms, a lab and a waiting room. Initially, it will provide medication abortions up to 11 weeks of gestation. Planned Parenthood will aim to start providing surgical abortions at the clinic after the first few months. McNicholas and Rodriguez declined to discuss safety and security measures for the mobile clinic. Laura Echevarria, spokeswoman for the National Right to Life Committee, which opposes abortions, called the mobile abortion clinic another grotesque demeaning of human life. Chemical abortions can lead to life-threatening complications, Echevarria said in a statement. Will women recognize those complications early enough to seek treatment? Other efforts have begun around the country to increase abortion access. The nonprofit Just The Pill operates a mobile clinic in Colorado that provides medication abortions. Spokeswoman Kat Mavengere said that early next year, also in Colorado, Just The Pill will operate a mobile clinic for procedural abortion. The organization also plans to expand to other areas, starting with a mobile clinic in Illinois in 2023. In July, a California doctor proposed a floating abortion clinic in the Gulf of Mexico as a way to maintain access for people in southern states where abortion bans have been enacted. Dr. Meg Autry said the idea was to provide a clinic aboard a ship in federal waters, and out of reach of state laws. Some Democrat-led cities like St. Louis, meanwhile, have set aside money to help pregnant women travel to states where abortions are legal. Updated at 1:21 p.m. Eds: This story was supplied by The Conversation for AP customers. The Associated Press does not guarantee the content. (THE CONVERSATION) The Black Church is an institution that was forged in crises. Through slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the civil rights era, the network of places of worship serving traditionally Black congregations has seen its fair share of traumatic events. In 2016, the Rev. Robert Franklin, former president of Morehouse College, acknowledged as much in a speech on urban ministries: Disruption is the question, but the radical love ethic of Jesus is the response. And that was before 2020 delivered the COVID-19 pandemic, the related economic crisis and the global movement for Black Lives forcing Black churches to find new ways to worship and serve their communities. As a scholar who looks at how the Black Church engages with the community, I believe looking at how the institution has endured past crises can provide a blueprint for how communities can deal with todays trying times. In particular, the story of how three Black churches in Philadelphia endured events similar to those afflicting society today can give both solace and hope. A pillar of Philadelphia Black churches have long been an important pillar in Philadelphias African American community. As far back as 1896, civil rights leader and sociologist W.E.B. Du Bois was recording the impact that they had in the city. Du Bois research found that Philadelpias 55 Black congregations had amassed a total annual income of at least US$94,968 and property valued at approximately $908,729 almost $29 million in todays dollars. About 100 years later, the University of Pennsylvanias Congregation Census study found that approximately 2.4% of the Black congregations in the city had established commercial ventures including thrift stores, grocery stores and restaurants. This tradition of Philadelphias Black churches providing a role beyond the faith needs of congregants meant they were well placed to help out in times of crisis, be it health, social or economic. On the front lines of a health crisis Philadelphias Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is the mother church of the oldest Black denomination in the United States. It was established in 1794 by the Rev. Richard Allen, a former slave, four years after he purchased his freedom for $2,000. Allen, an entrepreneur, also co-founded the Free African Society, a mutual aid organization, with clergyman Absalom Jones in 1787. The Free African Society, in which the seeds of the church were sown, emphasized self-determination for free Black people by providing economic, cultural, social and spiritual guidance, as well as medical care. During the yellow fever outbreak of 1793, Allen and Jones responded to the request of Benjamin Rush, a well-known physician and lesser-known founding father, to help the sick. As the plague took more lives, about 20,000 people fled the city. People abandoned sick family members, and hospitals were unprepared to meet the need. Within four months, about 5,000 people died, approximately 10% of the population. Allen asked Black residents in Philadelphia to set aside their resentments against white people to work as nurses, cart drivers, coffin makers and gravediggers for a decent wage. Meanwhile, churches remained open to maintain morale. Historians have noted that Allen, Jones and other free Black people helped to restore the sense of human dignity to the city while urging white citizens to expand their notion of brotherly love to include black people. Surviving the 1930s economic crisis In common with many people across Philadelphia and across the U.S., congregants of Tindley Temple United Methodist Church suffered as a result of the economic depression of the 1930s. The church, led by the Rev. Charles Albert Tindley from 1902 to 1933, served a Black community in South Philadelphia at a time when many were locked out of occupations through a last hired, first fired policy that discriminated against them. Tindley, the son of an enslaved person who advanced from brick carrier and church janitor to pastor of one of the first Black-built churches on Broad Street, used his entrepreneurial skills to help the congregation. Under Tindleys leadership, the church used its relationships and resources to both train and place African Americans in new positions. Tindley advised church members to use their skills to start businesses such as restaurants and barber shops and to save their money to purchase homes. To implement these strategies, the church established a building and loans association and offered evening classes to offer job training to church members and new migrants from the South. Tindley also associated with other entrepreneurs, like merchant and political leader John Wanamaker, and leveraged such connections to create employment opportunities for parishioners. Advancing civil rights and self-reliance Through the social upheavals of the civil rights era, Philadelphias Zion Baptist Church served as a rock for North Philadelphias Black community. The Rev. Leon Sullivan, who served as the churchs pastor from 1950 to 1988, provided moral guidance and promoted an institutional and collective approach to economic success. It came at a time when Black people faced discriminatory hiring practices, police brutality and were shut out of the new suburban housing boom and opportunities to build wealth. Sullivan founded the Opportunity Industrialization Center to provide employment training to address urban poverty and racial inequality. He is best known for urging American corporations to divest from South Africa during apartheid, and his Global Sullivan Principles set guidelines for multinational corporations to do so. In 1962, Sullivan led his congregation to establish a community investment cooperation model known as the 10-36 Plan. By 1968, the 10-36 Plan had over 3,300 members and $400,000 worth of assets secured to build Progress Plaza, which is one of the nations first shopping centers owned, operated and primarily funded by Black Americans. Sullivan also led efforts to start the Selective Patronage Program boycotting companies that failed to hire Black and other minority employees. Lessons of the past For this reason, it has always served as a pillar that has helped families and communities disproportionately affected by health, economic and racial crises both in the early days of the Black church through to todays uncertain times. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. The Conversation is wholly responsible for the content. With child mental health problems on the rise in the past few years, a growing number of states have adopted laws that let students take an excused absence if they feel anxious, depressed or need a day to "recharge." A dozen states already have measures in place that allow kids to take off for mental health and not just physical health reasons. A handful of others are considering making similar changes to school absentee rules. The move is a recognition of a disquieting trend: In December 2021, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy issued an advisory declaring a mental health crisis for American children, citing "an alarming number" of young people struggling with "feelings of helplessness, depression, and thoughts of suicide." Between March and October 2020, the height of the pandemic, the percentage of children visiting the emergency room for mental health issues rose 24% for children ages 5 to 11 and 31% for children ages 12 to 17, according to the Children's Hospital Association. In 2020, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the second-leading cause of death among teens, a 31% rise over 2019 Christine M. Nicholson, a clinical child psychologist in Kirkland, Washington, who sees many children with mental health struggles, said she supports this effort to allow mental health days. She said kids sometimes need to skip school, go for a hike, see a movie or even stay home and bake a cake or watch a movie. "I think mental health has to be appreciated as much as physical health," she said. "Kids are having a tough time, and they need a break." "The pandemic, with its isolation, didn't help," said California state Sen. Anthony Portantino, a Democrat who introduced a bill that was signed into law in 2021. The bill does not specify how many days a year a child can take. Portantino, whose brother Michael took his own life in 2010 at age 52, said he hopes other families can avoid the tragedy his family suffered: "The pandemic exacerbated the need, but if it can hasten the fix, then that is something positive." Proponents of such measures say they are long overdue and can help destigmatize mental health in the eyes of parents and children. So far, Washington, California, Illinois, Maine, Virginia, Colorado, Oregon, Connecticut, Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Kentucky provide mental health days. "If nothing else, it makes a huge statement that mental health matters as much as physical health," said Mike Winder, a Republican Utah state representative who sponsored a bill that became law in 2021. Winder introduced the bill after conversations with his daughter who suffered her own mental health issues. "This policy is communicating from the highest levels that it's okay to take care of your mental health," he said of the bill, which does not limit the number of days a child can take. But how does taking a "mental health day," which Americans traditionally have construed as a "wink-wink, nudge-nudge" excuse for playing hooky, improve mental health? "When students are feeling physically unwell, there is a universal understanding that they should stay home and they should take time to feel better," said Barb Solish, director of Youth and Young Adult Initiatives for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which supports the use of mental health days. "School policies that recognize mental health as an acceptable reason for absence can help students take the time they need to care for themselves and restore their health," Solish said. "Practically speaking, if you have a fever, you're not paying attention in class, right? You're not learning the lesson. If you're feeling overwhelming anxiety, you're not learning either." In states that have adopted them, the policies vary, although in all cases, parents must sign a note excusing their child. Some place limits on the number of days off a child can claim - for instance, in Connecticut, students can have two days per year, and they may not be consecutive - while others, such as California, do not. As with all absences, missed schoolwork is expected to be made up. But the policies do not dictate how the days off may be used - whether for staying in bed or attending therapy appointments or something else. Some suggest that could engender abuse. Portantino bristles at the idea. "We don't question that a parent would like Johnny to stay home because he has a cold. That's the exact reason we have to have this bill. That's a stigma we have to correct. We're not making a distinction between physical and mental health. If your child is sick, your child is sick," he said. Most of the laws passed or introduced require that a parent provide the same kind of excuse note that a physical illness would require. Some worry that providing mental health days isn't the right approach to this crisis. In the National Review, Daniel Buck, editor in chief of Chalkboard Review, a newsletter focusing on education, wrote that school mental health days "could alleviate immediate distress but facilitate habits that only worsen anxiety and depression in the long run." He suggested that they would teach kids avoidance rather than how to deal with the real issues that plague them, such as too much social media. "By popularizing mental-health days, we are encouraging our students to allow the world to dictate their emotions in place of teaching self-regulation and emotional control," he writes. Instead, he suggests, "What if we built resilience back into our schools? What if we trained students in the stoicism of Marcus Aurelius and habits of virtue in Aristotle such that they can face the inevitable difficulties of life? And these would include habits of emotional awareness such as regular reflection, discussions with loved ones, or planned, appropriately timed days of rest." Solish said there is a fine line between taking a day off to feel better or missing school to avoid a test you haven't studied for. That's why it's important for parents to get to the bottom of why a child might ask for time off. And, she added, if a child is asking for or taking an abundance of these days off, that can be a signal something is wrong, and indicates a need for professional help. Solish said, "We're not going to solve the youth mental health crisis with a few mental health days. But it's a great starting point." Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute in New York who studies mental health services in high-need school districts around the country, agreed. Days off will help, he said, but "there are too few (mental health) providers, too few online resources, too few school counselors trying to serve too many students and far too little information given to educators about how to support kids." Of the more than 100,000 clinical psychologists working in the United States, only 4,000 are child and adolescent clinicians, according to a 2022 report by the American Psychological Association. "School psychologists are also in short supply, leaving kids without enough support at school," the report said. Jack Ramirez, 19, of Spring Township, Pennsylvania, said he believes mental health days could literally be a lifesaver for many young people. He had urged Democratic Pennsylvania state Sen. Judith Schwank to introduce a mental health days bill in 2020, when he was an intern in her office the summer before his senior year of high school. He was still reeling, he said, from the suicide of a classmate a few months earlier. Maybe if that student had felt he could stay home to take care of his mental health, Ramirez thought at the time, he would still be alive. The measure, which would provide two excused mental health days per semester, is still in committee in the Pennsylvania state Senate. "This is not a bill to skip school," said Ramirez, now a sophomore at Rutgers University in New Jersey who has dealt with his own feelings of isolation and anxiety. "High school students are feeling isolated, they feel the pressure of grades. They are competing against each other. It's getting really scary, and we don't pay enough attention. ... If we want to start saving lives and start talking about solutions, pressing pause on a lot of these things we face is so important." Make the most of a mental health day Should you encourage your children to take an occasional step back from their miniature rat race? And if you do, is there a way to make the most of it? "There's no perfect way to take a mental health day," said Barb Solish, director of Youth and Young Adult Initiatives for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). "But it does help to be intentional." Here are some of tips from Solish for reaping the most benefit from a "mental health day": Listen to your child: Ask open-ended questions about their relationships and experiences and about why they think they need a day off. Then let them talk. Make it meaningful: Try to avoid catching up on school work or getting lost in social media. "Those are stressors for kids," Solish said. Pursue calming activities: Take a walk, bake, draw, get lost in nature. "Whatever brings your kid back to center is a good thing to do," said Solish, adding that you don't want to overschedule the day, because that will be stressful in its own way. Should parents allow kids to indulge in video games, television or other screen time? "Nothing is really off limits," Solish said. "You just want to make sure you're being really thoughtful about what is going to help." Ease up on the feelings talk: "You don't have to push kids to talk about their feelings all day," Solish said. You can talk about how important it is to take care of your mental health. Know when you need more help: If your child is showing increased irritability, sleeplessness, a depressed mood, low motivation or is regularly asking to stay home from school, you may need help from a mental health professional, said Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist with the Child Mind Institute in New York. Contact a pediatrician, school counselor or your family doctor to find a recommendation. ST. LOUIS Members of a new civilian jail oversight board say theyre frustrated that legal questions connected to a police union lawsuit against the city are preventing them from investigating the deaths of six people in the City Justice Center. City Counselor Sheena Hamilton has advised the Detention Facility Oversight Board to remain inactive until a judge clarifies whether a recent preliminary injunction connected to the lawsuit applies to the jail board. The unions attorneys say that was not their intention. Six people incarcerated at the jail have died this year, far above the national annual average of roughly two deaths per 1,000 inmates. The City Justice Centers population has hovered at just above 500 people since January. The most recent death happened Sept. 6. Please let us know when we can start. Its important that we get to the problems in the jail, Barbara Baker, a jail oversight board member, said in an email to other board members. Its very scary and concerning surrounding the problems there. Board member Pamela Walker, a former city health department director, said in an email to members that she is concerned about mental and physical health conditions in the jail. The deaths need to be investigated in a thorough, methodological, data-driven and transparent manner, she wrote. With the jail board unable to meet, the Board of Aldermens Public Safety Committee will hear from the citys top safety and jail officials at its meeting Oct. 5. The Detention Facility Oversight Board is caught in a legal tussle between the city and two police unions trying to stop the law that established a new agency the Division of Civilian Oversight and one of its two boards, the Civilian Oversight Board, which focuses on police. The agency and civilian boards are controversial because they have subpoena power to investigate complaints, misconduct and use-of-force incidents involving police or the jails. After St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones signed the law creating the Division of Civilian Oversight in August, she and the citys public safety director said the new agency would build trust. However, in their lawsuit filed Aug. 8, the Ethical Society of Police and St. Louis Police Officers Association argued that the Civilian Oversight Board would cause irreparable harm to the citys public safety and harm recruitment and retention of police officers in the city. A judges preliminary injunction Sept. 9 put a hold on the ordinance that established the civilian police oversight board but did not specifically mention the ordinance that created the jail oversight board. Hamilton interpreted the order as covering both boards because theyre both under the Division of Civilian Oversight. She filed a request for court clarification Sept. 19. Sherri Hall, an attorney representing the Ethical Society of Police, said that the lawsuit and injunction case dont involve the jail board because its not legally attached to the oversight review board. I dont think the judges relief includes the detention facility and that they could go ahead and move forward, she said. Alderman Sharon Tyus, who is also an attorney, said at the Public Safety Committee meeting last week that she thinks the jail oversight board should have never been blocked from meeting. However, even supporters of jail oversight board, such as Alderman Brandon Bosley, said he understands the city counselors caution. Why not listen to your lawyers? That makes the most sense to me, said Bosley. We just need to be correct in the way that we move. ST. LOUIS A man on Sunday morning broke into the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site on Delmar Boulevard and damaged tens of thousands of dollars in furniture and historical artifacts. He also wrote several suicide notes and briefly barricaded himself inside the historic home, police said. Authorities were called to the house just before 7 a.m. by Bellefontaine Neighbors resident Shannon Williams, who told the Post-Dispatch he was dropping someone off at work when he saw glass on the ground outside the home. I didnt know anybody was still inside, so I called the police and I walked down to the corner, and by the time I made it to the corner, he threw a glass cup at my back, Williams said of the man inside the Joplin House. Williams said he was not injured. While officers were investigating broken windows outside the building, they said a 38-year-old man began throwing large items from a second-story window. Additional officers about 20, Williams said entered the building as the man continued to throw artifacts and other items. Police tried to talk the man down and get him to surrender, but officers said he barricaded the staircase so they could not get to him. Williams said the mans great uncle arrived at one point to try to help calm the man down. The uncle told Williams the man had mental health struggles. As officers began to remove items from the staircase, the man began throwing furniture down at them, then left the building from a balcony. A short time later, officers found a broken window at the E.M. Harris Construction building at 2600 Delmar Boulevard, less than a block from the Scott Joplin House. Police said the man damaged more property there, then barricaded himself in a conference room. Officers forced their way into the room and arrested the man after a brief struggle. He was bloody head to toe, Williams said. Both the man and three officers were injured by broken glass, and the man was taken to a hospital. He had not been charged as of Monday afternoon. On Monday, several of the artifacts at the house were covered in blood. Brian Stith, deputy director of resources for Missouri State Parks, which operates the home, said employees spent Sunday focusing on the damage to the building itself and were still working through the artifacts to assess the total damage. Joplin, known as The King of Ragtime, lived in a flat at 2658 Delmar Boulevard from 1901 to 1903. The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site is where Joplin rented a room in 1902 and includes museum exhibits of his life. Stith said the house doesnt actually house original items owned by Joplin, though the artifacts are original to the time period. So from that standpoint, those are a little bit easier to replace than, say, if that were the original Scott Joplin artifacts, he said. We do have a few of those, but at this point, we dont think we have anything damaged in that regard. Stith noted the house will be closed to the public indefinitely as they work to repair the damage. He also confirmed on Monday that a request for $5 million in federal stimulus aid to upgrade the Scott Joplin State Historic Site was not funded. Photographer Christian Gooden contributed to this report. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan refuses to fulfill its promise to release Armenian prisoners of war for already the second time, Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan said. This is already the second time when Azerbaijan refuses to fulfill its promise to release Armenian POWs. The first case was in May, when a promise was made in Brussels, and the second time is now, when in Washington Azerbaijan committed to release 17 Armenian POWs until 9/30, the PM said on Twitter. ST. LOUIS Prosecutors last week filed charges against a man in connection with a woman's shooting death in Riverview in north St. Louis County. Ramone Lapid, 45, was charged Sept. 26 with second-degree murder and armed criminal action. The charges are in connection to 49-year-old Toni Stroder's shooting death Sept. 23 in the 9800 block of Lilac Drive. A man was also shot but survived, police said. At the time of the shooting, police said the attack was the result of a dispute between familiar parties. According to charging documents, Lapid and his co-defendant went to the home on Lilac Drive to steal drugs. It was during that robbery that Stroder was shot multiple times and died. Police confirmed on Monday Lapid was in custody. JEFFERSON CITY The challenges Sunshine Law advocates face with St. Louis and other local governments are mirrored on a much larger scale at the state, where the current administration and legislative leaders have sought to narrow access to public information. Thats not what Gov. Mike Parson promised in 2018 when he was sworn into office, pledging to bring honor, integrity and transparency to an office wracked by the scandals of his sometimes secretive predecessor. From pushing to make requests for public documents more expensive to delaying the release of information about who has won potentially lucrative state contracts, the Republican governors administration has not followed through on his transparency pledge, at least when it comes to strengthening the states Sunshine Law. The Watergate-era law was designed to require governmental agencies to give public documents to the public. But through lawsuits, policy changes and new laws, access to records has become scattershot in state government. Take the governors Office of Administration as an example. In recent weeks, the office in charge of purchasing goods and services for other state agencies awarded a contract to the Hawthorn Foundation, a business-funded nonprofit that organizes overseas junkets for the governor. The foundation operates under the premise of economic development and is run by Becky Willard, the wife of the governors chief of staff Aaron Willard. Under the previous contract, Hawthorn received about $3.4 million in taxpayer money for its work. Now, however, the public doesnt have immediate access to the terms of the new contract because the Office of Administration has closed off the normal manner in which the contracts can be viewed. Instead of clicking on a link, a person wanting to read the contract must file a Sunshine Law request. Once that is granted, the person must wait for the agency to review the material for possible redactions. After more than a week, the Hawthorn document was made available on a separate state contracting website. It shows the state could eventually pay Hawthorn up to $4 million annually. But the name of the person or persons who signed the contract on behalf of Hawthorn are blacked out. The reason for the closed records stems from legislation approved by the Legislature and signed into law by Parson that prohibits the release of information about not-for-profit organizations. According to OA, all documents on the states bidding and contracting website need to be reviewed and then redacted if they fall into the prohibited release category. This online database goes back to the 1990s, and an initial review estimates that there are well over 200,000 documents that will require review, the office said in a warning to lawmakers about the proposal. One of the sponsors of the not-for-profit privacy law says the decision by OA is overkill and should be reversed. I am confident the Personal Privacy Protection Act in no way prevents state government from being transparent with the way it awards state contracts, said Rep. Jered Taylor, R-Nixa. The new decision by the administration is just the latest procedural and legal roadblocks erected in front the publics right to have access to public documents. When a member of the public files a Sunshine Law complaint against a state agency like the Office of Administration, the attorney generals office assumes the role of legal counsel for the agency the complaint is lodged against, rather than the citizen. That means if the attorney generals office declines to sue, the only other option available to someone who believes that the Sunshine Law has been violated is to take the public entity to court using a private attorney. Thats what occurred in two high-profile cases involving records dating to former Gov. Eric Greitens administration, which ended in 2018. Both of the cases are still being litigated more than four years later. Jean Maneke, an attorney for the Missouri Press Association, said Attorney General Eric Schmitt has had mixed results in his position on the Sunshine Law. There are times when his office steps up. They do send someone out to do training periodically. But the attorney general has filed lawsuits against open records. It sends a mixed message, Maneke said. Schmitts office also has used the Sunshine Law as a way to probe journalists, raising alarm bells among press advocates like Maneke. In June, Schmitt, who is running for the U.S. Senate, filed an open records request seeking correspondence between two journalism professors connected to the University of Missouri and the executive director of a fact-checking group. Schmitt, who faces Democrat Trudy Busch Valentine in the November general election, requested three years of emails sent and received by the professors while they worked at the Columbia Missourian, which is affiliated with the University of Missouri journalism school. Schmitts spokesman, Chris Nuelle, told The Associated Press that the attorney general is simply trying to get to the bottom of the fact checking process. Maneke said Schmitt appears to be using the law as a battering ram against the university and journalists who are housed at the university. Schmitt also has used open-records laws to seek copies of handouts, emails and other resources that address race from school districts as part of a push targeting critical race theory. He also opened a transparency portal to allow parents to see his efforts. Meanwhile, Dave Roland, director of the Freedom Center of Missouri, which advocates for open government, gives Parson low marks for compliance with the states Sunshine Law. I dont think Gov. Parson has been particularly transparent, Roland said. But, he adds that Parson is not alone in his attempts to limit public access to public records. The problems we see with government transparency are nonpartisan. I dont view this as a Republican or Democrat issue at all. This is about people in power, Roland said. They do not like other people looking over their shoulders. The Legislature Attempts to shore up the publics access to public information are rare in the Missouri House and Senate. But, in 2018, partially in response to Greitens use of a text-destructing mobile phone app, a House panel debated two proposed laws that would increase penalties for violating the states Sunshine Law and record retention law. The plan would also have created an office of transparency within the attorney generals office and give that office subpoena power. The end result could have been the creation of a Sunshine Law ombudsman used in other states. Illinois, for example, has a system to handle open records disputes that can issue formal opinions in certain cases. The Illinois law, approved in 2010, creates a Public Access Counselor who can issue advisory opinions on records requests and mediate disputes between members of the public and governmental agencies. The office also can issue binding opinions on Freedom of Information Act requests. In its first decade, the office received 45,531 inquiries for review, and approximately 96.5% of those matters were closed, the Illinois Attorney Generals office said. In 2019, the Illinois office received 3,575 formal requests for assistance, an average of nearly 298 new matters per month. The proposed legislation in Missouri was triggered by then-Attorney General Josh Hawleys probe into use by Greitens and his staff of the messaging app called Confide. Hawley wanted to find out whether Greitens and his staff illegally destroyed public records by using Confide, which erases text messages after they are read. The attorney generals office doesnt have subpoena power in Sunshine Law investigations, so the probe relied almost entirely on interviews with Greitens staff. The measure did not advance to the governors desk. In 2021, Parson began mulling changes to open records laws that would permit government agencies to withhold more information from the public and charge more for any records that are turned over. The changes included a proposal to allow government agencies to charge fees for the time attorneys spend reviewing records requested by the public. The fee plan was floated as a way to reverse a Missouri Supreme Court decision that found that the governors office couldnt charge people who make records requests for the time an attorney spends reviewing documents. Lawmakers also have pressed for less transparency. Sen. Andrew Koenig, R-Manchester, introduced legislation this year that would shield personal identifying information in public records of any student younger than 18, information regarding a governmental bodys security measures, contact information of Missourians whove signed up for some form of government communications, and public utility bills or usage records. The measure also would have blocked out some wider categories such as communications between constituents and state lawmakers and information on proposed legislation or the legislative process kept by lawmakers or staff. Rep. Bruce DeGroot, R-Chesterfield, sought to remove transitory documents, including early drafts or materials not related to decision-making, from the list of available documents. The proposals also included Parson-backed provisions making the requestor liable for any attorney fees that go into reviewing the materials. Roland said it is unlikely that reforms to the Sunshine law will come in the form of legislative action because lawmakers themselves could be forced to become more transparent with their documents. I dont think there is any political will in the Legislature to expand the Sunshine Law, he said. I think that they are gun-shy. One option would be to put a question on the ballot asking Missouri voters to amend the Constitution to require more transparency from government officials. Maneke has spent 20 years trying to enhance the states Sunshine Law to encourage transparency in government. And, with the 50th anniversary of the law coming next year, Maneke is discouraged. There are days when I feel we havent made progress, Maneke said. You would think after 50 years we would have gotten things right. It is an unending battle, Roland added. CHICAGO A state program intended to deliver equitable funding for Illinois school districts in low-income communities was lambasted by critics who are asking lawmakers in Springfield for more than $1 billion a year to meet the new laws 2027 deadline to fully fund public education. According to a recent report from the Partnership for Equity and Education Rights Illinois (PEER IL) and the Education Law Center, despite five years of using the states new evidence-based funding formula, 1.7 million students from 83% of Illinois school districts still attend underfunded schools. The new statewide education justice coalition, PEER IL, was created to ensure the state is fulfilling its promise to provide Illinois public school students fully funded and fully resourced public schools, PEER IL officials said. When then-Gov. Bruce Rauner signed evidence-based funding into law in 2017, the legislation aimed to comprehensively overhaul the states school financing system, PEER IL officials said. According to the report, reaching the adequacy benchmarks put forth in the law requires more than $7 billion additional dollars in state funding to properly fund school districts in the state, with a goal of reaching full funding by 2027. By providing only the minimum required funding each year and no new funding in 2021 the state has underfunded EBF by $7.2 billion, PEER IL officials said. As one of the lowest-ranked public school systems in the nation, it is imperative that Illinois invest significantly more in the EBF formula now to prevent decades more of poorly resourced students in inadequately funded school districts throughout the state, said Naoma Nagahawatte, a Chicago Public Schools parent and a member of Raise Your Hand for Illinois Public Education. PEER (IL) believes all public school students in Illinois, no matter their race, family income or neighborhood, should receive an excellent, fully funded education, Nagahawatte said. Illinois families cannot wait any longer. According to the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability and the formulas adequacy calculations, the Vandalia Community School District should have received $21,500 from the state over the past five years for a Vandalia Community School kindergartner entering school in 2017, PEER IL officials said in a statement. At the current rate of funding from EBF, this same Vandalia student will be 28 years old before her school district begins to receive 90% of the promised funding in state and local dollars needed to provide Illinois public school students with an adequate education, PEER IL officials said. A spokeswoman for the Illinois State Board of Education said the state board is incredibly appreciative of Governor (J.B.) Pritzkers historic increases to public education funding. Since Evidence-Based Funding was enacted, schools have received more than $2 billion in increased funding, dramatically reducing the number of school districts funded at less than 60% of adequacy from 168 in 2018 to just two for the 2023 fiscal year, ISBE spokeswoman Jackie Matthews said in a statement. Although some have questioned why funding remained flat in 2021, Matthews said school districts received an additional $354 million that year in federal pandemic relief funds, which were distributed to districts using the EBF tier distribution formula. The Evidence-Based Funding formula is working, she said. While we have a ways to go before all school districts are fully funded, we have made extraordinary progress in just six years. Illinois lawmakers will enact a state budget that balances many different spending priorities, Matthews said. She added that the state board encourages anyone with a stake in public education to share their perspective on state funding. With ISBE currently conducting its annual call for funding requests to inform the boards public education spending recommendation for next year, Matthews said educators, parents and other community members can participate by submitting a funding request online and attending a budget hearing. Tony Sanders, superintendent of Elgin-based School District Unit 46, said that after the EBF law passed, the district has realized an increase of $78 million in state funding through the formula since 2018. The results to date have been transformational for our district, and had the formula not changed prior to the pandemic, we would have struggled significantly to serve students, said Sanders, who was among the Illinois educators advocating for the change in the states funding model. Although the state committed to an increase of at least $300 million per year when the law passed, Sanders said funding remained flat in 2021. The faster we can get districts that are below their adequacy target to the levels necessary to serve their students, the better, Sanders said. U-46 remains the furthest from adequacy among all the large unit districts in the state, Sanders said. Under the EBF model, each district in Illinois has an adequacy target for what the state says the district should spend to meet the needs of its students, Sanders said. That amount is calculated using funding factors such as low-income rates, students with specialized needs, students who are English language learners and other criteria. In the annual Illinois Report Card, which this year will be released in late October, the state indicates what it considers a districts adequacy target, as well as how close that district is to being adequately funded. U-46 is a Tier 1 school district because we are so far from our adequacy target, spending about 63% of what would be considered adequate, Sanders said. According to the Illinois Report Card for the 2021-22 school year, 57% of the 36,000 students enrolled in U-46 were from low-income families, and 37% were English language learners. At Chicago Public Schools, 78% of the 339,000 students who were enrolled during the 2021-22 school year were from low-income families, and 20% were English language learners, according to the report card. Chicago Public Schools aims to provide students with a safe, high-quality and equitable education, a CPS spokesman said. CPS has been working to distribute Evidence-Based Funds thoughtfully and strategically. CPS is funded at 74% of adequacy, an annual $1.4 billion shortfall, CPS officials said. FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) Days after the skies cleared and the winds died down in Florida, Hurricane Ian's effects persisted Monday, as people faced another week without power and others were being rescued from homes inundated with lingering floodwaters. Ten additional deaths were blamed on the storm in Florida as frustration and desperation mounted in the path the storm cut through state. And the hurricane's remnants, now a nor'easter, weren't done with the U.S. The mid-Atlantic and Northeast coasts were getting flooding rains. The storm's onshore winds piled even more water into an already inundated Chesapeake Bay. Norfolk and Virginia Beach declared states of emergency, although a shift in wind direction prevented potentially catastrophic levels Monday, said Cody Poche, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Wakefield, Virginia Coastal flooding temporarily shut down the only highway to part of North Carolina's Outer Banks and flooding was possible all the way to Long Island, the National Weather Service said. At least 78 people have been confirmed dead: 71 in Florida, four in North Carolina and three in Cuba since Ian made landfall on the Caribbean island on Sept. 27 and in Florida a day later. Search and rescue efforts were still ongoing Monday in Florida. More than 1,600 people have been rescued statewide, according to Floridas emergency management agency. Washed-out bridges to barrier islands, flooded roadways, spotty cellphone service and a lack of water, electricity or the internet left hundreds of thousands isolated. The situation in many areas wasn't expected to improve for several days because waterways were overflowing, leaving the rain that fell with nowhere to go. In DeSoto County, northeast of Fort Myers, the Peace River and tributaries reached record high levels and boats were the only way to get supplies to many of the county's 37,000 residents. The county was prepared for strong winds after being hit by Hurricane Charley in 2004, but it was not prepared for so much rainfall, which amounted to a years worth of precipitation in two days, DeSoto County Commissioner J.C. Deriso said. This flood has been pretty catastrophic, said Deriso, adding that officials hope to open one of the area's main highways by Tuesday. Ian washed away bridges and roads to several barrier islands. About 130 Florida Department of Transportation trucks started work on building a temporary bridge to Pine Island and by the end of the week should be finished on a structure drivers can carefully traverse at slow speeds, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said during a news conference Monday afternoon. The governor said a similar temporary bridge is planned for nearby Sanibel, but it will take a little more time. They were talking about running ferries and stuff, DeSantis said. And honestly, you may be able to do that, but I think this is an easier thing, and I think people need their vehicles anyways. The first two days without power at his Punta Gorda home weren't bad because he, his wife and 4-year-old daughter like to camp, Joe Gunn said. But then they ran out of gas, Gunn said as he waited for an hour for $20 worth of premium fuel from a Bonita Springs station, one of the few open in the area. The family then drove to get supplies and a hot meal. Gunn was preparing for another stressful night, worried someone might try to steal his supplies. I am constantly listening to the generator. Its pitch black outside of the house," he said. Across southwest Florida, residents whose homes were overrun by the sea or floods threw waterlogged mattresses, couches and other belongings into the street and tore out floors and cut into walls, hoping to dry the shells of their houses before mold set in. Everything that got water is starting to mold. Were cutting all the drywall out, 2 feet up, trying to get things dried out to save the house and to protect it from more damage," said Jeff Rioux, thankful for several days of nice weather and generators to run fans. Neighbors helped each other where they could. I lost everything, said Alice Pujols, crying as she picked through the heaps of castaway clothes at a strangers home. Im just looking for what I can salvage. About 520,000 homes and businesses in Florida were still without electricity Monday evening, down from a peak of 2.6 million. But that is still nearly the same amount of customers in all of Rhode Island. Eric Silagy, Chairman and CEO of Florida Power & Light, said he understands the frustrations and emphasized that the utilitys crews are working to get power restored as soon as possible. The utility provider the largest in the state expects to have power restored to 95% of the service areas affected by Hurricane Ian by the end of the day Friday, he said. If all goes well, we will be able to have all of our customers the over 2 million that were impacted by this monster storm essentially restored, Silagy said. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden plan to visit Florida on Wednesday. The president was in Puerto Rico on Monday, promising to rebuild it all after Hurricane Fiona knocked out all power to the island two weeks ago. In Virginia, the U.S. Navy postponed the first-ever deployment of the U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford, the nations most advanced aircraft carrier, according to a statement from the Navys 2nd Fleet. The carrier and other U.S. ships were scheduled to leave Norfolk on Monday for training exercises in the Atlantic Ocean with vessels from other NATO Countries. After moving across Florida, Ian made another landfall in the U.S. in South Carolina as a much weaker hurricane. Officials said Monday that crews were finishing removing sand from coastal roads and nearly all power had been restored. Santana reported from Bonita Springs. Associated Press reporters Anthony Izaguirre in Tallahassee; Frieda Frisaro and David Fischer in Miami; Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia; and Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina contributed to this report. UNITED NATIONS U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Monday that the world is in a life-or-death struggle for survival as climate chaos gallops ahead and accused the worlds 20 wealthiest countries of failing to do enough to stop the planet from overheating. The U.N. chief said emissions of global-warming greenhouse gases are at an all-time high and rising, and its time for a quantum level compromise between rich developed countries that emitted most of the heat-trapping gases and emerging economies that often feel its worst effects. Guterres spoke as government representatives opened a meeting in Congos capital Kinshasa to prepare for the major U.N.-led climate conference in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh in November. Its a time of immense climate impacts around the world from floods that put one-third of Pakistan under water and Europes hottest summer in 500 years to hurricanes and typhoons that have hammered the Philippines, Cuba and the U.S. state of Florida. In the last few weeks, Guterres has amped up a push for climates version of asking polluters pay for what theyve done, usually called loss and damage, and he said Monday that people need action now. Failure to act on loss and damage will lead to more loss of trust and more climate damage. This is a moral imperative that cannot be ignored. Guterres said the COP27 meeting in Egypt must be the place for action on loss and damage. In unusually critical language, he said commitments by the so-called G20 group of the worlds 20 leading economies are coming far too little, and far too late. Guterres warned that current pledges and policies are shutting the door on our chances to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius, let alone meet the 1.5 degree goal. We are in a life-or-death struggle for our own safety today and our survival tomorrow, he said. COP27 is the place for all countries led by the G20 to show they are in this fight, and in it together, Guterres said. And the best way to shot it is by showing up at COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh. Rich countries, especially the United States, have emitted far more than their share of heat-trapping carbon dioxide from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas, data shows. Poor nations like Pakistan and Cuba have been hurt far more than their share of global carbon emissions. Loss and damage has been talked about for years, but richer nations have often balked at negotiating details about paying for past climate disasters, like Pakistans flooding this summer. The issue is fundamental for the worlds developing countries and Guterres is reminding rich nations that they cannot try and brush it under the carpet ... G20 nations have to take responsibility for the great need their actions have caused, said Mohamed Adow of Power Shift Africa, which tries to mobilize climate action in Africa. Princeton University climate science and international affairs professor Michael Oppenheimer said in an email that if high-income and other big emitters like China want the U.N. convention on climate change to remain useful, they will need to grapple seriously with loss and damage. Otherwise, he said, negotiations are headed for interminable gridlock. Poor countries with low emissions can simply refuse to discuss anything else until the issue is resolved, Oppenheimer said. Richer countries may find a way around the issue without paying for direct damage by paying poorer nations more to adapt to lessen future disasters, but even then developed nations will have to pay out money, not just make promises as they have in the past, he said. Guterres remarks highlight what small islands and least developed countries have been arguing for decades that loss and damage is irrefutable and already disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable countries and communities, said Adelle Thomas, a climate scientist from the Bahamas. We are reaching a breaking point, where developed countries must respond instead of continuing to delay action with empty promises and prolonged discussions, she added. Borenstein reported from Washington. How encouraging that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has discovered the importance of setting aside partisan rancor to help suffering Americans in times of crisis. DeSantis willingness to shelve his usual attacks on the Biden administration to politely request emergency federal aid in the wake of Hurricane Ian is an inspiring example of constructive bipartisanship as is Bidens announcement that the government will bear a big part of the expense. Its interesting, though, that DeSantis took exactly the opposite stance a decade ago when he joined other hard-right members of Congress who argued against generous federal recovery aid when Hurricane Sandy ravaged the Northeast. Still, President Joe Biden is right to bolster federal aid to Florida. Its residents shouldnt be punished for their governors flip-flopping ways. But given DeSantis presidential aspirations, the rest of the country shouldnt forget it. In early 2013, Congress authorized $9.7 billion in flood insurance aid for the victims of Sandy, which had inflicted especially severe damage two months earlier in New York and New Jersey. New York was dominated by Democrats but New Jersey had a Republican governor, Chris Christie, who drew heavy criticism from congressional Republicans for touring the devastation with then-President Barack Obama and praising the administrations emergency response. The aid package drew 67 no votes in the House, all from Republicans. DeSantis, one of just two voting no from hurricane-prone Florida, had been sworn in one day before the vote. I sympathize with the victims of Hurricane Sandy, DeSantis said in a statement at time, but he argued that authorizing the money with no plan to offset the spending with cuts elsewhere is not fiscally responsible. DeSantis tune changed last week. After Ian ravaged his state, he asked the Biden administration for emergency federal funding with, notably, no mention of offsetting cuts to cover the cost. When people are fighting for their lives, when their whole livelihood is at stake, when theyve lost everything, he said in an interview, its time to put politics aside. Fortunately for DeSantis, Biden (unlike DeSantis himself) is consistent in that view. The administrations open-ended vow of federal assistance has been so quick and unreserved that even DeSantis and other Republicans have been compelled to sing its praises. DeSantis, like so many elected Republicans today, seems to care about fiscal responsibility only when it can be used as a partisan cudgel. There was no talk of fiscal responsibility when DeSantis recently drew from a $12 million fund to transport dozens of deceived Venezuelan migrants to Marthas Vineyard in a cruel political stunt. DeSantis won his congressional seat amid a tea-party wave that questioned the premise that government should help vulnerable Americans in times of crisis. Assuming DeSantis runs for president, among the first questions voters should ask is: Which DeSantis is he, and why should anyone support a hypocrite? The campaign rhetoric is heating up in the Missouri U.S. Senate race, once again with Attorney General Eric Schmitt on the defensive over his support for a bill years ago that opened the door for Chinese companies to buy up Missouri farmland. Though his supporters say its much ado about nothing, the bill he backed as a state senator has had some serious knock-on effects for rural Missourians the very people he is counting on for support. The attacks on Schmitt over China first surfaced during his heated primary race against former Gov. Eric Greitens, who challenged Schmitts tough-on-China claims by noting Schmitts vote supporting an important Senate agriculture bill in 2013. Buried deep in that bill was an allowance for foreign companies to purchase agricultural land in Missouri provided the total land under foreign ownership didnt exceed 1% of all the states agricultural land. Both Schmitt and then-state Sen. Mike Parson, now the governor, supported the bill. It seemed pretty innocuous at the time. But what happened afterward says everything about their utter disregard for rural Missourians when it comes to protecting corporate interests. The bill cleared the way for Hong Kong-based WH Group to buy up 146,000 acres of rural land. Americans know that company as Smithfield Foods, operator of industrial pig farms, called concentrated animal feeding operations, or CAFOs, that have a well-deserved reputation as major polluters. Smithfield owns 11 of the states largest CAFOs. The pigs stink up the air for miles around, and their waste fouls water tables and streams. In March, Smithfield was cited by the state for dumping 300,000 gallons of pig waste into local streams in northern Missouri. The state fined the company a pinky-slap of $18,000. Parson is one of the biggest champions of these obnoxious, polluting operations. He signed a bill that revoked local governments ability to reject the placement of CAFOs in their communities. And Schmitt, Mr. Get Tough on China, has done nothing to defend the rights of rural Missouri communities when these big polluters come to town. But he did sue China for the coronavirus. Maybe Schmitt just failed back in 2013 to recognize the potential complications of the innocuous-looking bill he supported back then. But he certainly knew the ruinous effect of the CAFO law on rural property values and quality of life. And yet, in 2019, he came to the defense of industrial pig farmers. China is really just a red herring in this debate. The real issue is quality of life and the smelly industrial pollution that Schmitt and Parson have forced on rural communities across the state. Those residents are among the strongest backers of the Republican Party. And to thank them for their support, the states two most prominent Republicans have placed a nice gift of perpetual pig poop in their backyards. Would like to buy 5-20 loads of wood pellets, export to Lithuania. Please let me know the price, packed into 15kg bags. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Have you ever thought that you could visit NASA, talk to world-renowned scientists and gain new knowledge from a senior astrophysicist at the Heliophysics Science Division of the Goddard Space Flight Center of NASA, research professor at the American University in Washington D.C., Vladimir Airapetian? All this is more than real. In 2023 one of the Armenian young scientists will become that successful person after passing the interview stage. At the age of 25, the astrophysicist, on the way from Armenia to NASA, has already managed to receive invitations from Denmark, Sweden and France. He has also worked jointly both in the Byurakan and Crimea Observatories. In an interview to ARMENPRESS, Vladimir Airapetian talked about the prospects of science development in Armenia, the existence of life in space, and his visions on space research and religion. From Armenia to NASA (background) Vladimir Airapetian was born in Baku, graduated from the astronomy department of the local physics and mathematics school. Since the age of ten he has dreamed of becoming an astronomer and has clearly decided to engage in science. In order to fulfill his dreams, he was admitted to the Faculty of Physics at the Yerevan State University (YSU), and he applies the knowledge gained here till today. After graduating from the YSU Faculty of Physics, he continued his studies in the department of astrophysics, worked in the Byurakan Observatory during his post-graduate studies. After graduating from the university with honors, Prof. Airapetian has started to use his theoretical knowledge in the Byurakan Observatory in the department of theoretical physics founded by Viktor Hambardzumyan. Mr. Airapetyan is working at NASA for already 25 years. Viktor Hambardzumyan has once asked me to prepare two reports in English. It was that time when I understood that its hard to deal with science without that language. And after the two reports I immediately received invitations from Denmark, Sweden and France, I was just 25 years old, and Hambardzumyan, of course, allowed me to combine my work. I departed for Paris in 1993, several months later I received an invitation from New York where I stayed for a year. And in 1995 I got an opportunity to work at NASA, he said. There are chances to develop science in Armenia Todays Armenian students have a great potential, and the Yerevan State University is the starting point from where its possible to reach the desirable height. I am glad to inform that starting next year I am going to teach in my faculty, will work with students trying to help them conduct a scientific work. Participation in scientific events is important for the development of young scientists. I think that the accumulation of international experience and active participation in scientific events, including seminars, lectures and discussions, are important for young scientists. In order to develop science, we should help the youth so that they have their contribution in the international science sector. I would recommend the students not to miss the opportunity to meet and work with scientists, not to be afraid of asking questions, expressing an opinion and making a mistake, he said. Science in Armenia is managed as during the USSR It is said that science in Armenia is on the verge to die because of funding. But I want to note that it is not the only problem. We have a problem with mentality. The Soviet scientific agencies are working with Soviet standards. A whole institution is governed by one person. And the institutions themselves do not have a wish to learn something new, or maybe, its difficult for them to learn. So, the problem needs a systematic solution. I myself am working for this problem to be solved as soon as possible, the astrophysicist said. Probability of finding life in space is closer Years before, searching for and finding traces of life in the space seemed impossible to scientists, but now it is at the center of scientific research. Finding another life in the space has been one of the dreams of the mankind, and different questions have emerged on the way to searching for that life. It is possible to find the answers to the questions that interest us by using the latest technologies, conducting research and combining the efforts of representatives of different fields of science. We will find life in space in about 20 years, Vladimir Airapetian said. Studies rule out the existence of a miracle NASA is preparing to launch a rocket into space. We are planning to create a new base on the Moon and Mars. Certain works have already been done on this direction, and it can be said that a new era will soon start for the Moon and Mars. In coming years, the study of space will force the humanity to understand their place in the Universe. We will understand where we come from, where we go, and what life is. The more we research, the less room remains for a miracle, he states. Religion is for giving harmony to people God is important for many people from psychological perspective. However, nature and psychology are different things. Psychology created the brain. I like all religions, they mainly bring peace. Religion is giving a psychological harmony to the people. If people, believing in God, feel themselves safer and harmonious, I have nothing to say, but when the scientifically proved natural phenomena are attributed to gods, miracles, I see a danger in that. I was born in a family where I was taught that I must watch, ask questions and never believe anything until I check it. My belief system is science, Vladimir Airapetian said. Prof. Airapetian has recently paid a short visit to Armenia for giving lectures in the Yerevan State University. Interview by Karine Terteryan Regarding Archbishop: Declining enrollment, income spurred closing of 2 St. Louis Catholic high schools Sept. 29): I believe we have to look to look no further than to redlining and white flight to find the uncomfortable answers as to why the archdiocese is closing schools. As the archdiocese initiates major changes via its All Things New initiative, I would ask that we think in new ways about being good stewards of gifts given to us. Is being a good steward only measured by how we spend money? What if it is measured by the number of children in need weve reached, opportunities weve afforded and hope to families weve given? With the recent discovery of past bishops and priests owning enslaved peoples, perhaps reparations for that injustice might look like promoting and heavily subsidizing schools in areas that we Catholics have abandoned. The church speaks of the need for evangelization. Keeping these schools as an option for non-Catholic children from these neighborhoods would be a response to Jesus call for us to care for those on the margins, while showing these same children our Catholic faith in action. Gerry Rauch St. Louis Regarding Florida governor gives update on Ians damage (Sept. 30): Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis voted against Hurricane Sandy relief money when he was in Congress in 2013. He should now tell us liberals where in the Constitution does it give the Federal government the power to tax Missourians to rebuild houses and businesses destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Has the Constitution somehow changed in the past 10 years? OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso Burkina Faso's ousted leader Lt. Col. Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba left the country for Togo Sunday two days after being overthrown in a coup, while the new junta urged citizens not to loot or vandalize. Damiba's departure was confirmed by two diplomats who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. It was not known whether Togo was his final destination. Earlier Sunday, religious leaders who had mediated between the factions said that Damiba had offered his resignation as long as his security and other conditions were met. A junta representative later announced on state television that their leader, Capt. Ibrahim Traore, officially has been named head of state following the Friday coup that ousted Damiba. Their power grab marked Burkina Faso's second military coup this year, deepening fears that the political chaos could divert attention from an Islamic insurgency whose violence has killed thousands and forced 2 million to flee their homes. It followed unrest in Ouagadougou, the capital, in which mobs on Saturday attacked the French embassy and other French-related sites, wrongly believing that they were sheltering Damiba. Along with agreeing not to harm or prosecute him, Damiba also asked Traore and the new junta leadership to respect the commitments already made to the West African regional bloc ECOWAS. Damiba, who came to power in a coup last January, had recently reached an agreement to hold an election by 2024. In a statement late Sunday, ECOWAS said it would be sending a team of mediators to Ouagadougou on Monday including former Niger President Mahamadou Issoufou. The ECOWAS statement, signed by Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, noted that Damiba had resigned "in order to avoid a violent confrontation and possible bloodshed." Earlier in the day, the new junta leadership had called for an end to the unrest that engulfed Ouagadouou in wake of Friday night's coup. In a statement broadcast on state television, junta representative Capt. Kiswendsida Farouk Azaria Sorgho called on people to "desist from any act of violence and vandalism" especially those against the French Embassy or the French military base. Anti-French sentiment rose sharply after the new junta alleged that interim president Damiba was sheltering at a French military base following his ouster. France vehemently denied the allegation, but soon protesters with torches thronged the perimeter of the French Embassy in Ouagadougou. Saturday's violence was condemned by the French Foreign Ministry, which denied any involvement in the rapidly developing events. Damiba came to power in January promising to secure the country from jihadi violence. However, the situation only deteriorated as jihadis imposed blockades on towns and have intensified attacks. Last week, at least 11 soldiers were killed and 50 civilians went missing after a supply convoy was attacked by gunmen in Gaskinde commune in the Sahel. The group of officers led by Traore said Friday that Damiba had failed and was being removed. To some in Burkina Faso's military, Damiba was seen as too cozy with former colonizer France, which maintains a military presence in Africa's Sahel region to help countries fight Islamic extremists. Some who support the new coup leader, Traore, have called on Burkina Faso's government to seek Russian support instead. Outside the state broadcaster on Sunday, supporters of Traore were seen cheering and waving Russian flags. The family of Max Upchurch is proud to announce that a not for profit 501(c) 3 organization The Max Upchurch Excellence Though Scouting Foundation has been created to honor Maxs legacy. The Max Upchurch Excellence Through Scouting Foundations mission is to ensure that Maxs legacy lives on by supporting the scouting communities in Ste. Genevieve County. The foundation strives to participate in helping with recruitment, camping, high adventure trips, annual dues, equipment, training, travel, and other events that foster Scouting and leadership development. Max Upchurch moved to Ste. Genevieve, Missouri in July of 2008 at the age of 8 years old. Max attended all three levels of schooling in Ste. Genevieve County and graduated from Ste. Genevieve High School in 2018. During his time in Ste. Genevieve, Max joined Troop 410 in Bloomsdale, Missouri and became active in scouting. He had learned the passion and importance of this organization from his father and brother, who were both Eagle Scouts. Max was truly blessed to have a supportive family that was actively involved in his journey and a father who led his troop as Scoutmaster for several years. Max attended Summer Camp each year at S bar F Scout Ranch. His Eagle Scout Project was a support wall at the American Legion in Bloomsdale that stopped the parking lot from continuously getting filled with dirt during large storms. Max truly made the community better, and gained a great deal of leadership and life skills from his time in scouting. In May of 2016, Max became the third member of his family to achieve the Eagle Scout Award. He went on to study Secondary Math Education at Missouri State University. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in December of 2021. Just two weeks later, Max died in a tragic accident that took his family and friends by shock. Max was a person who deserves a legacy. He was too young to leave us. In his short 21 years, he had made such an impression on the world, we should all strive to live our lives like him. New Jersey lawmakers have unveiled new legislation to rewrite the states firearm carry laws after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June expanding gun rights. Democratic Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and Senate President Nicholas Scutari said Thursday that the new measure will bar permit holders from carrying in schools, polling places, bars, restaurants, theaters, sports arenas, airports, casinos and child care facilities. It also sets up a new requirement that permit holders carry insurance to protect against accidental discharge. Gun rights advocates said in a statement they want to overturn the bill in court if it becomes law. When Barbara Sheinbein, 64, went to vote in the April election her friend drove her to the polls. Her friend went inside the polling location in St. Louis County and told a worker that Sheinbein wanted to use an accessible voting machine because she is blind. She can't read a printed ballot. "We have a little issue," the worker said. One of the scanners had broken down, so they had replaced it with the accessible one. There wasn't an accessible one for her to use. Sheinbein declined to have someone read the ballot to hear and mark her choices. She wanted to keep her vote private. Instead, they ended up driving to another location that had a working machine. Not every person with a disability is able to do that. Nearly 61 million Americans have a disability. This makes the group the country's largest minority, but historically they have among the lowest voter participation rates, according to Denise Lieberman, director and general counsel for the Missouri Voter Protection Coalition. The barriers to getting registered and casting a ballot are insurmountable for many. That percentage improved significantly during the pandemic when many states expanded curbside, absentee and mail-in voting. However, Republican-controlled state legislatures have rolled back access to voting in more than a dozen states since the last election. The new restrictions will disproportionately impact low-income voters, minorities and people with disabilities. A national expert on voting rights, Lieberman is leading the legal fight against barriers to voting recently enacted by the state legislature. The coalition hotline frequently receives reports from voters who struggle to enter older voting locations that lack fully ADA-compliant entrances. Another common complaint involves places where the accessible equipment is broken or unavailable. If you have a disability or illness, you are entitled to curbside voting, Lieberman said. Voters don't have to provide any medical information about a disability. They are entitled to have their polling location permanently moved to one that is accessible, and members in the same household can also vote there, she said. Sometimes the poll workers are poorly informed about the accommodations that must be present for those with disabilities. Sheinbein recalled another incident from a previous election where the device to hear the ballot was available but the headphones to use it were broken. Since then, she has brought a pair of headphones with her to vote. Even the process of getting registered can present significant obstacles. Aimee Robertson, of O'Fallon, Missouri, is the parent of an 18-year-old son with profound hearing loss and other disabilities. She documented their ordeal trying to get him registered to vote earlier this year in a letter to the League of Women Voters. Before the changes in state law going into effect next month, he was able to use his original birth certificate and a bank statement to cast his ballot. State lawmakers have decided that those forms of identification are no longer good enough. Her son does not have a driver's license. It took Robertson several days and repeated trips to the licensing office to get a state-issued ID. His birth certificate, school ID and bank statement were not enough proof, so they had to order a replacement copy of his Social Security card in person. "I consider us to be lucky in that we do live within 10 miles of a licensing office, but if we were more rural, I would have most likely opted to throw in the towel rather than jump through all the hoops to get the identification he now needs to vote," she wrote. She also questioned why certain documents, like his birth certificate, social security card and proof of residence are good enough to get a valid form of photo identification in order to vote, but these same documents are not good enough to present while voting. "If we were more rural and lived further from the license place or if my son hadn't had my help, he would just not be able to vote in November," she said, adding that they were never offered the "free" state ID. She had to take two and a half days off work to get his registration completed. It raises the question of why some lawmakers are so invested in making voting for certain groups so difficult. Any voter in Missouri who is turned away at the polls or experiences trouble trying to cast a ballot can call Call Election Protection at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-6878683) to be directly connected with free legal aid. Aisha Sultan 314-340-8300 Home and family editor @aishas on Twitter asultan@post-dispatch.com New murals in Grand Center make a parking lot, an alley, even a garage door, an art destination. For more than two years, artists painted through St. Louis heat, the pandemic and a rogue October snow. They came from places including Mexico, Puerto Rico and France to create murals in Grand Center, leaving behind images such as a roaring T-rex, children climbing ladders and a feathered Cardinal. In one mural, 1920s dancer Josephine Baker wears beads and a sweet smile. In another, mischievous, cartoonish figures peer out windows. And even though an official opening of the project is Oct. 7, more murals are in the works. "I can't look at a wall without thinking a mural should land on it," says Gina Grafos, director and chief curator of visual and literary art for the Kranzberg Art Foundation. Perhaps that's what comes of wrangling muralists for years for a public art project expected to eventually touch four city blocks. The project, called the Walls off Washington, is by the Kranzberg Foundation, and it centers on a building housing its Sophie's Artist Lounge and High Low literary arts cafe. But neighbors are also interested, Grafos says. Although there is no cost to see the outdoor works, some of them do have visiting hours. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians can always see pieces facing North Leonard Avenue, such as Remix Uno's "215 Feet of Love," but the alleyway paintings are primarily accessible from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Visitors will see the murals in the alley and those facing the parking lot by going through a side door for Sophie's Artist Lounge, 3333 Washington Avenue, just east of the Big Top at Grand Center (where more artwork covers containers.) The side entrance is on Josephine Baker Boulevard, which faces the big red and white tent, home to Circus Flora. During the recent Music at the Intersection in Grand Center, visitors got a preview of the murals when a market was set up in the alley. Future events may also take place in the parking lot behind Sophie's and could include more markets or pop-up DJ events in the alley. Just over half of the 20 current murals are by local artists, Grafos says. She wanted to take care of the "stars already in our city" while also bringing in national and international artists. "We recognize the legacy of what art exists, not just with the Mural Mile and Paint Louis," but also international cities that already have sections dense with visual art. When reaching out to artists outside of St. Louis, Grafos says the effort was helped by painter Katherine Bernhardt (whose own large piece is the centerpiece inside Sophie's). Bernhardt grew up in Clayton and, just before the pandemic, moved back to her hometown. Her connection to St. Louis helped several other artists trust the Kranzberg project, Grafos said. Planners did not dictate what artists could create, Grafos says, but they did want images to be an "uplifting visual experience." By talking to artists about their plans, she says, the murals met both parties' intentions. There are no guns in the murals or explicit body parts, nothing that should be offensive to neighbors or nearby schools. Grafos says the planners acknowledged "we have enough challenges" without bringing in "loaded" public art. The back of the building, in fact, includes "Life as You Climb" by Derrick Adams of Brooklyn, a colorful mural of people climbing ladders, with at least one offering a helping hand in a scene that feels aspirational and hopeful. Nearby, "Change Is Gonna Come" by Cbabi Bayoc of St. Louis includes a gray-haired Black elder along with the words "home" and "stories." Simiya Sudduth's "From Infinity to Infinity" includes purply pink flowers in front of a hand making a peace sign. "Mutual Dreaming" is by students in a mural class at the University of Missouri-St. Louis taught by Phil Robinson. In a guide to the Walls, the entry for the UMSL mural, which includes portraits, musical symbols and a ballerina, says its vision was to express "St. Louis's cultural heritage and vibrant spirit." The famous post-Pop artist Kenny Scharf of California was happy to contribute, Grafos says, and his lively "Kranzbergville" could also be an apt title to the large number of venues and artistic efforts supported by the Kranzberg foundation in Grand Center. In the Walls guide, Scharf also seems to summarize the intent of the Walls off Washington: "One very important and guiding principle of my work is to reach out beyond the elitist boundaries of fine art and connect to popular culture through my art." Most of the artists painted directly on brick walls. Many used projectors but others painted free hand or with stencils. At least a couple of garage doors are covered by printed images. Grafos says the images should be long-lasting, and touch-ups will sometimes cover paint affected by weather. Grafos says the "best thing about public art is you listen, you plan, you go through the logistics and then you set it to sail. You relinquish control over whose eyeballs are landing on it through the visitor experience." So she'll never know all the viewers who glimpse parts of the murals on their way to Powell Hall or the Fox Theatre. But visitors to Sophie's (who will also see some indoor art installations on their way outdoors) no doubt will register their favorites, like the bright green T-rex loved by a nephew. With the project ongoing, she says, "more are landing this fall and we have big things for spring." Although the murals won't cover historic building facades, she says, "there is some more brick and mortar to be lifted." Jane Henderson 314-340-8107 jhenderson@post-dispatch.com The Walls off Washington When 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 7 during Grand Center's First Friday, then 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday Where 3333 Washington Avenue How much Free Electrovaya's first U.S. facility adds to its existing two Canadian facilities and will produce its proprietary high-performance lithium-ion cells and batteries TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Electrovaya Inc. ("Electrovaya" or the "Company") (TSX:EFL)(OTCQB: EFLVF), a leading lithium-ion battery technology and manufacturing company, is pleased to announce that it has selected New York State as the location for its first U.S. gigafactory (the "Gigafactory"), for the production of cells and batteries. Electrovaya will set up operations at a 137,000 square foot plant on a 52-acre campus near Jamestown, NY. The Company is developing the Gigafactory due to rising demand for its lithium-ion batteries, which provide superior safety and longevity in demanding applications for e-forklifts, e-trucks, e-robots, e-buses and more. Dr. Raj Das Gupta, CEO of Electrovaya, said: "Electrovaya is proud to build our first U.S. gigafactory in New York State to manufacture our high-performance lithium-ion battery products with 100% renewable energy. We are very pleased to have strong support from the State for this venture and expect to continue to find additional non-dilutive funding to support capital needs." "The Gigafactory will achieve three key objectives for the Company: Increase our manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand, improve our supply chain security and overall gross margins through added vertical integration, and develop additional market opportunities given the significant U.S.-based manufacturing capacity," continued Dr. Das Gupta. Empire State Development (ESD) is assisting the project by providing up to $4 million of tax credits through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program, and $2.5 million of funding through the Regional Council Capital Fund Program. The Gigafactory will be located in a former electronics manufacturing facility and is expected to create approximately 250 new jobs, with expected production of more than one GWh of battery and energy storage systems over the next five years. Electrovaya will also be eligible for other New York State funds, as well as U.S. federal funding from various agencies and programs . In July, the New York Power Authority Board of Trustees approved an allocation of more than 1.5 megawatts of low-cost hydropower under the Power Authority's Industrial Economic Development program to meet the increased electric load resulting from the Gigafactory. The final capital cost of the facility is estimated at approximately $75 million, and it is expected to open in phases starting late 2023. Please find below a link to the New York State announcement made earlier today: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-electrovaya-establish-lithium-ion-gigafactory-chautauqua-county For more information, please contact: Investor and Media Contact: Jason Roy Director, Corporate Development and Investor Relations Electrovaya Inc. Telephone: 905-855-4618 Email: [email protected] About Electrovaya Inc. Electrovaya Inc. (TSX:EFL) (OTCQB: EFLVF) is a pioneering leader in the global energy transformation, focused on contributing to the prevention of climate change by supplying safe and long-lasting lithium-ion batteries without compromising energy and power. Electrovaya is a technology-focused company with extensive IP, designs, develops, and manufactures proprietary lithium-ion batteries, battery systems, and battery-related products for energy storage, clean electric transportation, and other specialized applications. Company's Infinity line of batteries is focused on commercial vehicles and its Solid State Technology under Development is focused on passenger vehicles. To learn more about how Electrovaya is powering mobility and energy storage, please explore www.electrovaya.com . Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to the deployment of the Company's products by the Company's customers and the timing for delivery thereof, and can generally be identified by the use of words such as "may", "will", "could", "should", "would", "likely", "possible", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "objective" and "continue" (or the negative thereof) and words and expressions of similar import. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Certain material factors and assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Statements with respect to the startup and opening of the plant by late 2023, to the expectation to continue to find additional non dilutive financing for the required additional capital needs, to the estimated initial capital costs of the giga plant, to the capacity of the plant to exceed 1 GWh of cells and batteries and energy storage systems, to the expectation to create 250 jobs over the next 5 years, to the purchase and deployment of the Company's products by the Company's customers and users, and the timing for delivery thereof, and levels of expected sales and expected further purchases and demand growth are based on an assumption that the Company's customers and users will deploy its products in accordance with communicated intentions, that the Company will be able to deliver the ordered products on a basis consistent with past deliveries, and the anticipation of the Company delivering Infinity Battery Technology Products in Q4 FY2022 on the present purchase order to meet FY 2022 revenue targets, anticipated revenues in FY 2023, gross margin and ability to increase prices to help maintain gross margins, ability to have production ramps of the Infinity Battery Technology Products in Q4 FY2022 and FY2023 to meet demand, are all based on assumptions by the company and its end users. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include but are not limited to macroeconomic effects on the Company and its business and on the Company's customers, economic conditions generally and their effect on consumer demand, labour shortages, supply chain constraints, the potential effect of COVID restrictions in Canada and internationally on the Company's ability to produce and deliver products, and on its customers' and end users' demand for and use of products, which effects are not predictable and may be affected by additional regional outbreaks and variants, and other factors which may cause disruptions in the Company's supply chain and Company's capability to deliver the products. Additional information about material factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations and about material factors or assumptions applied in making forward-looking statements may be found in the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended September 30, 2021 under "Risk Factors", and in the Company's most recent annual Management's Discussion and Analysis under "Qualitative And Quantitative Disclosures about Risk and Uncertainties" as well as in other public disclosure documents filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements contained in this document, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. SOURCE: Electrovaya, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: 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 / October 3, 2022 / Tortoise announced today the commencement of cash tender offers for each of the following Funds. Fund Tender Offer Amount TYG Up to 5% or 596,395 of its outstanding common shares NTG Up to 5% or 282,149 of its outstanding common shares TTP Up to 5% or 111,388 of its outstanding common shares NDP Up to 5% or 92,299 of its outstanding common shares TPZ Up to 5% or 326,324 of its outstanding common shares Each tender offer will be conducted at a price equal to 98% of each Fund's net asset value (NAV) per share as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on the date the tender offer expires. Each tender offer will expire at 5:00 P.M., Eastern Time on November 1, 2022 or on such later date to which the offer is extended. The pricing date will also be November 1, 2022, unless extended. If the number of shares tendered exceeds the maximum amount of a tender offer, the Fund will purchase shares from tendering shareholders on a pro-rata basis (disregarding fractional shares). Accordingly, there is no assurance that a Fund will purchase all of a shareholder's tendered common shares in connection with the relevant tender offer. Each Fund may sell portfolio instruments during the pendency of its tender offer to raise cash for the purchase of common shares. Thus, it is likely that during the pendency of each tender offer, and possibly for a short time thereafter, each Fund will hold a greater than normal percentage of its net assets in cash and cash equivalents. This larger cash position may interfere with a Fund's ability to meet its investment objectives and invest consistent with its investment strategy. Each tender offer is being made on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the relevant Fund's tender offer statement on Schedule TO (including an offer to purchase, a related letter of transmittal and other offer documents) that has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). All of these documents contain important information about the relevant Tender Offer. Shareholders of each Fund should read their documents carefully as they contain important information about the relevant Tender Offer. Shareholders of each Fund can obtain a free copy of the relevant documents at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or from the Fund by calling Georgeson LLC, the Fund's information agent for the tender offer, at 1-877-278-9672 for TYG, 1-888-666-2580 for NTG, 1-866203-9401 for TTP, 1-866-432-2791 for NDP, and 1-877-668-1646 for TPZ. As previously announced, the second conditional tender offer measurement period is from August 1, 2022 through July 31, 2023 with a 10% discount threshold and repurchase price of 98% of NAV. 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. Important Notice This announcement is not a recommendation, an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell shares of the Funds. Each Tender Offer will be made only by an offer to purchase, a related letter of transmittal and other documents filed with the SEC as exhibits to a tender offer statement on Schedule TO, with all such documents available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. For each Tender Offer, the Funds will also make available to shareholders without charge the offer to purchase and the letter of transmittal. Shareholders should read these documents carefully, as they would contain important information about the tender offer. 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 View source version on accesswire.com: VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Zimtu Capital Corp. is pleased to announce that the Company is renewing the Zimtu European road trip this coming fall and would like to invite European investors to meet the Zimtu Capital team and it's attending companies at our conference events in Geneva, Zurich, Frankfurt & Munich. This year's schedule begins with the first investor event in Geneva, Switzerland on November 1st 2022, followed by the next investor event on November 2nd in Zurich. The next investor event is taking place in Frankfurt on November 3rd and our final stop is at the 2022 Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse (International Precious Metals & Commodities Show) in Munich, Germany. The Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse has been held in Munich since 2005, and features renowned speakers from all over the globe, exhibitors focused on precious metals & commodities, and the opportunity to expand your network and meet like-minded people involved in various industries. To learn more and RSVP to any of the events, please visit: https://event.zimtu.com/. "Between 2011 and 2016 Zimtu Capital hosted an annual bus-trip to Europe, with stops scheduled in Germany and Switzerland," enthused Dave Hodge, President of Zimtu Capital Corp. "The European road trip featured investor meetings, scheduled company presentations to retail investors, family offices and other institutional representatives, and provided networking and other business opportunities for participants at each stop, Geneva and Zurich in Switzerland, and Frankfurt and Munich in Germany. The stop in Munich will overlap with the 2022 in-person Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse, scheduled for November 4th and 5th. If you are interested in building awareness for your company in Europe, the Zimtu road trip is a must-attend!" If you are interested in participating in the 2022 Zimtu European road trip, as either a company, broker or dealmaker, please call Zimtu Capital at 1 (604) 681 1568. About Zimtu Capital Corp. Zimtu Capital Corp. is a public investment issuer that aspires to achieve long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders. Zimtu Capital companies may operate in the fields of mineral exploration, mining, technology, life sciences or investment. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZC" and Frankfurt under symbol "ZCT1". For more information, please visit www.zimtu.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors ZIMTU CAPITAL CORP. "David Hodge" David Hodge President & Director Phone: 604.681.1568 NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE 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 NEWS RELEASE. SOURCE: Zimtu Capital Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Narek Mkrtchyan held a meeting with a delegation led by World Banks Country Manager for Armenia Carolin Geginat. Issues pertaining to new formats of cooperation in the area of labor and social protection were discussed, as well as the Social Protection Administration Project II, the ministry said in a press release. The current results of the project have been summed up. Information on the commissioned and under development regional centers of the Unified Social Service was conveyed. The possibility of result-based financing-format cooperation was discussed, and at the same time the importance of joining efforts for the full introduction of the Unified Information System, the construction of the Unified Social Service headquarters, and development of human capital was emphasized. The parties expressed readiness to continue joining efforts for the continuous development of the labor and social protection area. CAMDEN, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company, announced today it was recognized as a 2022 Leading Disability Employer by the National Organization on Disability (NOD). American Water is honored to be recognized as a 2022 Leading Disability Employer by the NOD, said Susan Hardwick, President and Chief Executive Officer, American Water. American Water values and promotes inclusion, diversity and equity throughout our workforce and aims to reflect the local communities we serve through the people we employ. We are proud to be an ally to those with different abilities. The NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal recognizes companies for measuring and achieving strong talent outcomes for people with disabilities. With this recognition, NOD shines a light on those employers that are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce by adopting exemplary employment practices for people with disabilities. For the past forty years, the National Organization on Disability has envisioned a world where all people with disabilities enjoy full opportunity for employment, enterprise and earnings and employers know how to make the most of their talents, said NOD President Carol Glazer. I congratulate all of this years winners for their leadership and commitment to hiring and retaining people with disabilities. Together we can reimagine the future by harnessing the power, creativity, and innovation of disability-inclusive diversity in the workplace, marketplace, and communities across America. American Water was one of fifty-two organizations recognized at the NODs Annual Forum on September 30 in Washington, D.C., before an audience of more than 300 corporate partners, disability rights advocates and civic leaders in the nations capital. Additionally, American Water was also recognized earlier this year as a top-scoring company, for the fourth consecutive year, on the Disability Equality Index (DEI), the most comprehensive disability inclusion assessment tool designed and embraced by both business leaders and disability advocates. Learn more about American Waters Inclusion, Diversity & Equity strategy here. About American Water With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,400 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and diversityataw.com. Follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. About the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal + Employment Tracker The NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal is a selective award given to companies demonstrating positive outcomes in recruiting, hiring, retaining, and advancing people with disabilities in their workforces. To see current and past winners of the NOD Leading Disability Employer seal, visit www.NOD.org/seal. Winners are determined based on data provided by companies on the NOD Employment Tracker, the only assessment tool available that focuses on the workforce, to help companies evaluate their disability inclusion policies and practices. Organizations wanting to compete for the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal voluntarily opt in to be considered. Those companies responses are scored, considering both disability employment practices and performance. Scoring prioritizes practices that are associated with increased disability employment outcomes over time, and companies receive additional points based on the percentage of people with disabilities in their workforce. At NODs Annual Forum, the cohort of winners are revealed by name; no specific scoring or ranking is disclosed. To be considered for the 2023 NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal, companies must complete the annual Employment Tracker survey during the qualifying window. Sign up to be notified when the 2023 Employment Tracker opens this November. About National Organization on Disability (NOD) The National Organization on Disability (NOD) is a private, non-profit organization that seeks to increase employment opportunities for the 60-percent of working age Americans with disabilities who are not employed. To achieve this goal, NOD offers a suite of employment solutions, tailored to anticipate, and meet leading companies workforce needs. NOD has helped some of the worlds most recognized brands be more competitive in todays global economy by building or enriching their disability inclusion programs. For more information about NOD and how its portfolio of professional services, Leadership Council and Employment Tracker can help your business, visit www.NOD.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005145/en/ Media Contact Alicia Barbieri Manager, Corporate Communications American Water (856) 676-8103 [email protected] Source: American Water SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Business Wire, the global leader in press release distribution and regulatory disclosure, today announced the passing of Lorry I. Lokey, retired Founder/Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, who died over the weekend at the age of 95 in California. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003006036/en/ Business Wire Founder Lorry I. Lokey (Photo: Business Wire) Having founded Business Wire in 1961, Lokey grew it from a single office in San Francisco into a worldwide communications leader up until it was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway in 2006. Today, Business Wire has nearly 500 employees around the world. We are deeply saddened by the news of Lorrys passing, said Geff Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Business Wire. He was a pioneer and visionary in our industry and a man of great generosity. We are grateful to Lorry for his lifetime of service and offer our condolences to his family and loved ones. In addition to his work at Business Wire, Lokey is noted for his significant philanthropic efforts around the world. In 2010 he signed the Giving Pledge and made numerous contributions to secondary and post-secondary education institutions and others, many of which have programs and facilities named in his honor. Notable gifts include those made to the University of Oregon, Stanford University, Mills College, The Technion, Santa Clara University, University of Haifa, and others. Reflecting on his passion for philanthropy, in a 2010 letter to join the Giving Pledge, Lokey noted, Theres an old saying about farmers putting back in to the ground via fertilizer what they take out. So it is with money. The larger the estate, the more important it is to revitalize the soil. Born in Portland, Oregon in 1927, Lokey attended Stanford University, from which he attained a bachelors degree in journalism in 1949. He also served in the US Army during World War II. One constant in his life was his love of journalism: from being an editor of the Stanford Daily to his work on the Pacific Stars & Stripes to an early job for United Press. Combining his journalism and public relations experience led him to start Business Wire. About Business Wire: Business Wire, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is the global leader in news release distribution and regulatory disclosure. Public relations, investor relations, public policy, and marketing professionals rely on Business Wire for secure and accurate distribution of market-moving news and multimedia. Founded in 1961, Business Wire is a trusted source for news organizations, journalists, investment professionals, and regulatory authorities, delivering news directly into editorial systems and leading online news sources via its multi-patented NX Network. Business Wires global presence is available to meet the needs of communications professionals and news media worldwide. For more information about Business Wire, please email us at [email protected] or call 888.381.9473. Subscribe to our blog for communications industry trends and tactics delivered straight to your inbox, and follow Business Wire on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003006036/en/ Business Wire Matt Farlie, +1 212-752-9600 [email protected] Source: Business Wire IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ivo Tjan, Chairman, President and CEO of CommerceWest Bank (OTCQX: CWBK) was recognized by the Los Angeles Times as a 2022 Orange County Visionary in acknowledgement for his noteworthy success to the business community during the last 18 months. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005007/en/ (Graphic: Business Wire) Reserved for only 30 individuals in the Orange County market, it further solidifies his commitment to making a difference in the lives of his clients, in helping businesses achieve their goals, and in supporting his community. Mr. Ivo Tjan, CEO commented, I am humbled to be recognized by the Los Angeles Times. Such an honor was made possible by the incredible people who make up CommerceWest Bankwho tirelessly, positively performed during such turbulent times. We are committed to continuing our support in the community for Orange County, California. Our mission is clear and the companys future is bright. About CW Bancorp CW Bancorp is the parent company of CommerceWest Bank (Bank). The Bank is determined to redefine banking for small and medium sized businesses by delivering on customized products and services. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Irvine, California, the Bank serves businesses throughout the state of California with our digital banking platform. By employing a strategically selected team of experienced professionals, we will provide flexibility, and create a complete, safe and sound banking experience for each client. We provide a wide range of commercial banking services, including remote deposit solution, NetBanker online banking, mobile banking, lines of credit, M&A / working capital loans, commercial real estate loans, SBA loans and treasury management services. Mission Statement: CommerceWest Bank will create a complete banking experience for each client, catering to businesses and their specific banking needs, while accommodating our clients and providing them high-quality, low stress and personally tailored banking and financial services. Please visit www.cwbk.com to learn more about the bank. BANK ON THE DIFFERENCE View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005007/en/ Bancorp Contact Mr. Ivo A. Tjan, CEO E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cwbk.com "Bank on the Difference" Source: CW Bancorp GREENSBORO, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Kontoor Brands, Inc. (NYSE: KTB), a global lifestyle apparel company with a portfolio led by two of the worlds most iconic consumer brands, Wrangler and Lee, today announced the appointment of Ezio Garciamendez as Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer, effective November 1, 2022. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005754/en/ Ezio Garciamendez joins Kontoor Brands as Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer. (Photo: Business Wire) Garciamendez will have responsibility for all aspects of Supply Chain management including global operations, planning, manufacturing, sourcing, quality, customer service, distribution, logistics and master data governance. He will also oversee all components of the companys supply chain strategy, including trade-related functions and operations. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, he will report to Tom Waldron, Kontoors Executive Vice President, Co-Chief Operating Officer and Global Brand President - Wrangler. Ezios impressive track record of innovation and excellence in the global supply chain industry, and experience rolling out advanced solutions across the most complex and multifaceted supply chains make him an invaluable addition to our team, Waldron said. His history of delivering operational excellence and process improvements across end-to-end global supply chain operations, combined with his background in international manufacturing and engineering will fuel Kontoors competitive advantage in both our owned manufacturing and strategic sourcing model and make him a natural fit for our organization. With more than 20 years of experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry, Garciamendez joins Kontoor from Melaleuca, the largest online wellness shopping club, where he served as Global Operations SVP since 2018, leading their end-to-end supply chain organization. Prior to that, he held various roles with increasing responsibility within Procter and Gamble leading highly complex, multi-category, end-to-end global supply chain operations including manufacturing, distribution, procurement, planning, logistics, engineering, and technical services. Were thrilled for Ezio to join Kontoor and know that his expertise will help us continue to navigate the complex challenges facing global supply chains. I look forward to partnering with him to deliver near and long-term results that benefit Kontoor and all our stakeholders, added Waldron. About Kontoor Brands Kontoor Brands, Inc. (NYSE: KTB) is a global lifestyle apparel company, with a portfolio led by two of the worlds most iconic consumer brands: Wrangler and Lee. Kontoor designs, manufactures and distributes superior high-quality products that look good and fit right, giving people around the world the freedom and confidence to express themselves. Kontoor Brands is a purpose-led organization focused on leveraging its global platform, strategic sourcing model and best-in-class supply chain to drive brand growth and deliver long-term value for its stakeholders. For more information about Kontoor Brands, please visit www.KontoorBrands.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005754/en/ Julia Burge, (336) 332-5122 Director, External Communications [email protected] Source: Kontoor Brands, Inc. LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Prodapt, a leading global consulting, technology, and managed services provider to the connectedness industry, today announced the launch of its OpenFibreXchange (OFX) that will enable Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to rapidly connect with the regional fibre operators to boost high-speed digital connectivity across the UK. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220930005312/en/ With a singular focus on the Connectedness industry, Prodapts OpenFibreXchange, built on cloud-native, open-source technology, will enable wholesale fibre aggregation in the UK to accelerate digital Connectedness. ISPs can seamlessly connect with regional fibre operators via OFX to deliver pan-UK digital connectivity. Prodapt is committed to accelerating the digitisation of Britain and connecting hard-to-reach communities. The investment in OFX resulted from open discussions with delegates from retail & wholesale fibre AltNets, incumbent operators, and PE firms during Prodapts monthly Fibre CXO breakfast roundtables in London. OFX will enable the market model for any ISP to engage any fibre operator to deliver digital services across any region in the UK. OpenFibreXchange will accelerate the time-to-market for ISPs to offer high-speed digital services across the country. The ISPs will be able to unlock the full potential of full-fibre in 80% reduced cycle time via OFX, which will bridge the gap between disparate process and tech stacks of regional fibre operators Mukul Gupta, EVP & Head Fibre. Many industry leaders have expressed their excitement and support for Prodapts OpenFibreXchange. High-speed full fibre access is indispensable for the digital economy, and OpenFibreXchange can help accelerate the collaboration between ISPs & fibre operators at a national level in the UK Charlie Ruddy, CEO, Digital Infrastructure. OpenFibreXchange is a great initiative for ISPs & regionally focussed fibre AltNets to collaborate seamlessly & accelerate the digitisation of Britain Christos Voudouris, CTIO, Neos Networks. Fibre is the foundation for the future of connected digital homes & enterprises in Britain, and OpenFibreXchange can accelerate the consumption of regional fibre access capacity by the ISPs James Warner, CSO, FullFibre. OpenFibreXchange will be a great initiative in the Netherlands to accelerate the digital connections for communities, homes & enterprises at the national level Anja Raijmakers, DeltaFiber. About Prodapt Prodapt has a singular focus on the Connectedness vertical. Prodapt partners with the leading creators of our hyper-connected world. Prodapts customers range from telecom operators, digital/multi-service providers (D/MSPs), technology and digital platform companies in the business of Connectedness. Prodapt builds, integrates, and operates solutions enabling next-generation technologies and innovations. Prodapt services global leaders including Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, AT&T, Verizon, Liberty Latin America, CenturyLink, Adtran, Vodafone, Liberty Global, Windstream, Virgin Media, Rogers, KPN, BT, and Deutsche Telekom, among many others. Prodapts customers help more than a billion people, and five billion devices stay connected. Prodapt has offices in North America, Europe, Latam, India, and Africa. It is part of the 120-year-old business conglomerate, The Jhaver Group, which employs over 22,000 people across 64+ locations globally. www.prodapt.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220930005312/en/ Manian Sivaramakrishnan Head Enterprise Marketing [email protected] Source: Prodapt The company will add more than 70 skilled professionals by 2025 to its Asia Pacific Headquarters Leading companies in Singapore including Changi Airport Group, StarHub, and Standard Chartered Singapore are improving digital customer experiences with Sprinklr NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sprinklr (NYSE: CXM), the unified customer experience management (Unified-CXM) platform for modern enterprises, announced today that the company will expand operations in Singapore. Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Sprinklr plans to more than quadruple the size of the companys Research and Development (R&D) Center to up to roughly 100 skilled professionals over the next 36 months. By expanding its Singapore R&D center, Sprinklr will continue to strengthen the company's position as the leading Unified-CXM provider, supporting brands in Singapore and Asia Pacific such as Standard Chartered Singapore, StarHub, and Changi Airport Group. Sprinklr's R&D center expansion comes amid a broader demand for technology solutions and digital adoption across Asia. Singapore's culture of innovation and globally competitive talent pool makes it well-placed to drive AI technology research to develop solutions for customers worldwide. We look forward to Sprinklr's new technologies that will enrich our digital ecosystem, said Chan Ih-Ming, Executive Director and Head, Digital Industry Singapore (DISG). Researchers in Singapore will be at the forefront of evolving Sprinklrs sophisticated AI technology that enables the largest brands in the world to manage customer experiences across 30+ digital channels and more than 170 languages. The shift to digital is inevitable. Consumers do everything on their mobile phones, says Aalishaan Zaidi, Global Head, Personal Banking, Standard Chartered. Sprinklrs Unified-CXM platform helps us serve customers through their channels of choice, be it a chatbot, social platform, or messaging app, like WeChat or WhatsApp. We think omni-channel CX, coupled with AI and analytics, is the only way forward. Sprinklr selected Singapore as the companys Asia Pacific Headquarters in recognition of its position as a regional hub for technology, innovation, and business, said Sprinklr Founder and CEO, Ragy Thomas. Singapore provides Sprinklr access to an exceptional talent pool and serves as a gateway as we scale our business across the region. The company has already started recruiting and investing in engineers in the Singapore office to support Sprinklr operations and strategic growth across the globe. For more information, please visit https://www.sprinklr.com/. About Sprinklr Sprinklr is a leading enterprise software company for all customer-facing functions. With advanced AI, Sprinklr's unified customer experience management (Unified-CXM) platform helps companies deliver human experiences to every customer, every time, across any modern channel. Headquartered in New York City with employees around the world, Sprinklr works with more than 1,000 of the worlds most valuable enterprises global brands like Microsoft, P&G, Samsung and more than 50% of the Fortune 100. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221002005006/en/ Press Austin DeArman [email protected] Source: Sprinklr DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- On September 30th, 2022, Dallas-based Surge Private Equity, LLC (Surge) closed its 11th platform investmentAvalon Document Services, Inc. (Avalon), a technology-enabled services company providing E-discovery, cybersecurity, business process outsourcing, and document services primarily to thousands of law firms and corporations. The transaction, valued at around $36MM, closed with debt financing provided by Woodforest National Banks TMT team and BakerHostetler acting as lead counsel. Founded in 2000, Avalon has built an extensive platform with 145 employees serving clients through its eight regional offices across the country. The Company has achieved a 23% CAGR over the past 20 years without any sacrifices to profitability, both organically across all lines of business and through strategic acquisitions. Avalons highly integrated services, high-touch approach, and use of effective and appropriate technology help them retain an exceptionally sticky customer base. Avalon owner JP Midgley retained equity in the transaction and will remain on as a senior executive. Sanjay Gulati, Principal at Surge, said, We are honored to partner with JP on the next exciting chapter of this company. Avalons world-class management team and strong KPI systems serve a diverse customer base of over 2,400 clients. With a ~90% revenue retention rate, 92 Net Promoter Score, strong free cash flow profile, and history of sustained performance through both recessionary and COVID environments, we find the asset exceptionally attractive in these volatile times. We are eager to work with him and the company to help continue its trajectory and execute on an addon acquisition campaign. About Surge Private Equity LLC Surge Private Equity is a Dallas-based private equity firm that typically seeks majority investments in growing businesses with $2-$15MM of EBITDA. Together with its lending partners, Surge provides entrepreneurs with liquidity and investors with higher yields and greater accessibility. Surge primarily invests in companies where the seller will remain in an ongoing capacity. About Woodforest National Bank Woodforest National Bank is a leading privately owned bank that has provided excellent customer service since 1980. Woodforest offers a wide variety of services to their customers and has extensive experience in lending with over $5 billion in loans on their balance sheet. The bank offers loans such as lines of credit and term loans to commercial customers. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005799/en/ William Wright [email protected] 214-317-6263 Source: Surge Private Equity LLC DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Trinity Industries, Inc. (NYSE: TRN) (Trinity) announced that its subsidiary, Trinity Rail Group, LLC, has entered into a new long-term railcar supply agreement with GATX Corporation (GATX) to deliver a mix of 15,000 newly built tank and freight railcars over a six-year period. GATX has the option to order an additional 500 railcars in each order year. Under the terms of the agreement, Trinity will deliver 6,000 tank cars at a rate of 1,200 cars each year from 2024 through 2028. The remaining 9,000 cars, which can be a mix of freight and tank cars, will be ordered at a rate of 1,500 cars per order year from 2023 to 2028 and delivered under a schedule to be determined. This multi-year railcar order with GATX represents the extension of a strong partnership, said Jean Savage, Trinitys Chief Executive Officer and President. We are proud of the relationship we have built with GATX and pleased that they have once again selected TrinityRail as the premier North American railcar manufacturer. Ms. Savage continued, At Trinity, we continue to believe that our ability to provide railcars for shippers, railroads, and other leasing companies gives us the broadest view into trends and dynamics in the industry and, ultimately, drives strong returns for our shareholders. About Trinity Industries Trinity Industries, Inc., headquartered in Dallas, Texas, owns businesses that are leading providers of rail transportation products and services in North America. Our businesses market their railcar products and services under the trade name TrinityRail. The TrinityRail platform provides railcar leasing and management services, as well as railcar manufacturing, maintenance and modifications. Trinity reports its financial results in two reportable segments: the Railcar Leasing and Management Services Group and the Rail Products Group. For more information, visit: www.trin.net. Some statements in this release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements about Trinity's estimates, expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies for the future, and the assumptions underlying these forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, future financial and operating performance, future opportunities and any other statements regarding events or developments that Trinity believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including the potential financial and operational impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trinity uses the words anticipates, assumes, believes, estimates, expects, intends, forecasts, may, will, should, guidance, projected, outlook, and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release, and Trinity expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Trinitys expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical experience or our present expectations, including but not limited to risks and uncertainties regarding economic, competitive, governmental, and technological factors affecting Trinitys operations, markets, products, services and prices, and such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see Risk Factors and Forward-Looking Statements in Trinitys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recent fiscal year, as may be revised and updated by Trinitys Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Trinitys Current Reports on Form 8-K. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005222/en/ Investor Contact: Leigh Anne Mann Vice President, Investor Relations Trinity Industries, Inc. (Investors) 214/631-4420 Media Contact: Jack L. Todd Vice President, Public Affairs Trinity Industries, Inc. (Media Line) 214/589-8909 Source: Trinity Industries, Inc. MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, U.S. Bank announced a new innovative offering to meet small business owners desire for a better line of sight into their future cash flow. A new online banking tool will enable the banks small business clients to see a 90-day forecast of their cash flow, with the ability to leverage clients external data in addition to their U.S. Bank accounts. The tool is now available to clients from their online dashboard. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005830/en/ A new online banking tool from U.S. Bank will enable the banks small business clients to see a 90-day forecast of their cash flow, with the ability to leverage clients external data in addition to their U.S. Bank accounts. The tool is now available to clients from their online dashboard. Cash flow is a top concern for todays business owners. Giving our clients the ability to forecast their cash flow outlook, including, in the future, the capability to consider various scenarios, will provide them with vital information to make smart decisions for today and the future, said Irv Henderson, U.S. Banks Chief Digital Officer for Small Business. This is just the newest example of how we are enhancing our leading banking and payments solutions by bringing together digital capabilities and the power of data in tools that are simple to use and provide valuable and actionable insights for our clients. The cash flow tool provides a forecast of account balances up to 90 days ahead, as well as a 90-day historical view, giving clients important information to help plan for their business. The tool allows clients to leverage both internal and external data sources to gain more comprehensive cash flow insights. U.S. Bank will also continue to invest in the tool and expects to introduce future functionality that will allow clients to create what if scenarios and view the potential impact on their future cash flow. This tool is the latest feature to be introduced as part of U.S. Banks Business Essentials, an integrated all-in-one suite of banking and payments solutions that are simple and convenient for businesses to use to manage and run their operations. About U.S. Bank U.S. Bancorp, with approximately 70,000 employees and $591 billion in assets as of June 30, 2022, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. The Minneapolis-based company serves millions of customers locally, nationally and globally through a diversified mix of businesses: Consumer and Business Banking; Payment Services; Corporate & Commercial Banking; and Wealth Management and Investment Services. The company has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, social responsibility, and customer service, including being named one of the 2022 Worlds Most Ethical Companies and Fortunes most admired superregional bank. Learn more at usbank.com/about. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005830/en/ Rick Rothacker, U.S. Bank Public Affairs & Communications [email protected] | 704.574.8878 Source: U.S. Bank The Brinks Company (NYSE: BCO) today announced its acquisition of NoteMachine, one of the leading ATM networks in the United Kingdom, for approximately $179 million or 5.0 times adjusted EBITDA. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, NoteMachine generated revenue of approximately $131 million and adjusted EBITDA of approximately $36 million at current exchange rates. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to earnings in the first year and was financed using available cash and Brinks existing credit facility. Headquartered in Crickhowell, United Kingdom, NoteMachine manages more than 9,000 ATMs. The acquisition expands the footprint of Brinks ATM managed services business to approximately 130,000 ATMs worldwide. We have been actively growing our ATM managed services business, both organically and inorganically, and this is an important step in the execution of our long-term strategy, said Mark Eubanks, president and CEO of Brinks. NoteMachines expertise, monitoring and dispatch center, and software technology infrastructure will be of great strategic value in supporting the growth of our global ATM operations, especially those in Europe. David Dove, leader of Brinks global ATM managed services business, will oversee and support NoteMachines management team. We will leverage NoteMachines fully integrated model, including its global TestLink parts business, to support growth across both financial institution and retail customer segments, said Dove. Philip Bowcock, CEO of NoteMachine, said, Brinks is a global leader in tech-enabled cash management, with a strong presence in ATM outsourcing. This is absolutely the right direction for NoteMachine, our customers and our employees, said Bowcock, who has been working closely with NoteMachines existing ownership group, including majority shareholder Corsair Capital, which will exit the business. Under Corsairs ownership, NoteMachine has made significant progress, and Brinks will build on that momentum with greater scale to drive sustainable organic growth, said Bowcock. Balanced Capital Allocation Strategy Includes Share Repurchases in Q3In the third quarter of 2022, Brinks repurchased a total of 501,560 shares of its common stock for an aggregate of $27.3 million and an average price per share of $54.36 under its previously authorized share repurchase program. Our ongoing plan to continue repurchasing shares demonstrates the confidence we have in our future growth and is consistent with our capital allocation strategy, said Eubanks. Our strong balance sheet and cash flow give us the flexibility to return capital to shareholders as we continue to invest in growing our business. The company expects to continue repurchases under its current $250 million share repurchase authorization, at the discretion of management, including through open market transactions pursuant to trading plans in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, on an opportunistic basis or through other arrangements, subject to market conditions and applicable securities laws. Under the current share repurchase authorization, Brinks is not obligated to repurchase any specific amount or number of shares. The company now has approximately $223 million remaining under this authorization. Information about the companys repurchases made through the end of the third quarter will be available in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended Sept. 30, 2022. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. A two-day international financial conference will be held in Yerevan on November 8-9, 2022 in which investors, representatives of venture companies, family offices, financial firms, private companies, governments, and embassies will participate. The conference entitled Alternative Investments in Armenia is organized in cooperation with Orion Worldwide Innovations, and BDO Armenia. The main goal of the conference is to create opportunities for the growth of alternative investment sources in Armenia. At the same time, the forum is one of the important events for the activation of the Digital Julfa Network, in addition to attracting investments for Armenian startups. Alternative investments have the power of enabling and recharging the economic growth of the countries. It fosters the flow of money into the economy for supporting innovation, increasing productivity, and enabling multi-generational and institutional capital management, said Aleksandr Shaghikyan, Partner, Head of Advisory at BDO Armenia. Private capital, corporate venture capital, and family offices can be types of alternative financing for the economy. In the asset structure of developed financial ecosystems, in addition to credit bank products, alternative investments also play a major role, through which money flows to startups, innovative projects, stimulating economic growth. One of our goals is to create new opportunities for the economy by developing the above-mentioned alternative financing sources, said Emma Arakelyan, CEO & Founder of Orion Worldwide Innovations. Generac Power Systems (NYSE: GNRC) and EODev, a French developer and manufacturer of zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell power generators, today announced a formal distribution agreement. Generac will offer EODevs GEH2 a large-scale, zero-emissions hydrogen fuel cell power generator to the North American market. The distribution agreement signifies the continued growth and availability of alternative energy solutions for the industrial power sector, which addresses a pioneering market in the transition to low-carbon and emission-free power solutions. This collaboration emphasizes Generacs Powering A Smarter World strategic focus and equally expands EODevs presence in the North American market with its cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind hydrogen fuel cell power generators. Generac has placed an initial order for the GEH2 generators, some of which have already arrived in the United States. Generacs ability to manage in-house service and maintenance, rental solutions and client support teams across the country make it an ideal partner for EODev's expansion plans in North America, as Generac can provide end-clients relevant support to handle acquisition, installation, and servicing of the GEH2 units. Generac Industrial Power is proud to partner with EODev to offer GEH2 hydrogen fuel cell power generators to North America, said Erik Wilde, executive vice president of Industrial Americas at Generac. Harnessing the power of hydrogen allows us to provide solutions that are engineered for the planet, while delivering value to customers committed to investments in carbon-free solutions. Hydrogen fuel cell power generators can play an important component in the expanding alternative energy space, and the GEH2 platform demonstrates our commitment to providing cutting-edge products that improve energy resiliency, optimize energy efficiency, and lead in environmental stewardship. "We are delighted to have Generac further the EODev promise in the North American market. Beyond their vast expertise, we share a common ambition to accelerate the energy transition through our clean and innovative solutions, said Jeremie Lagarrigue, chief executive officer of EODev. Thanks to EODev's GEH2, tomorrow's solutions for carbon-free power generation in North America are already available today. We look forward to sharing with you their first projects in this promising market." GEH2, the ally of the energy transition on land The GEH2 uses a fuel cell and a lithium iron phosphate battery, reducing noise emissions and providing an instant start. This combination of power enables the GEH2 to deliver up to 110 kVA of power. Developed to be easy to use, the GEH2 is equipped with event-driven electrical outlets, standardized frequency and voltage levels, as well as remote monitoring and data acquisition. Designed to provide virtually any energy ecosystem with instantaneous power, the GEH2 offers a silent solution without emissions of CO2, HC, NOx, or fine particles. The GEH2 emits only warm water and filtered air. With its plug-and-play approach, the GEH2 was developed with the aim of easily integrating into all industries and environments. Designed to meet environmental challenges without sacrificing efficiency, it is suitable for virtually all sites and sectors of activity, whether prospective customers are seeking energy autonomy, desiring a backup solution, or operating in a confined site or regulated zero-emissions zones. Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the worlds largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, announced today that Robin Saitz has been promoted to vice president, Global Marketing and Chief Marketing Officer. She reports to Scott Genereux, senior vice president and Chief Revenue Officer. In her new role, Saitz has global responsibility to lead marketing of Rockwells full portfolio. With a focus on driving demand and building the brand globally, she oversees industry strategy, marketing communications, analyst relations, demand generation, and commercial marketing. Saitz joined Rockwell as part of the companys acquisition of Plex Systems, completed in September 2021. Most recently, Robin led marketing for software as a service in Rockwells Software & Control business segment as the Plex & Fiix Chief Marketing Officer. Fiix was acquired by Rockwell in January 2021. The SaaS and Rockwell marketing teams will come together under Saitzs leadership. Robin is an engineer turned marketer with a deep expertise in marketing across multiple industries, Genereux said. With her outside-in thinking and customer focus, she will build on the strong foundation we have to further elevate our go-to-market approach and make Rockwell the first choice in industrial automation and information solutions. Rockwell is at the center of so many important industry initiatives including digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Our solutions are critical to delivering successful business outcomes for our customers, Saitz said. This is why I am honored and excited to lead marketing for such a well-respected company. Prior to joining Plex, Saitz held CMO roles at Avecto, a cybersecurity solutions provider (acquired by BeyondTrust), and Brainshark, a sales enablement software company. Robin spent more than 20 years at PTC, including her role as senior vice president of Global Marketing and Operations. She started her career as an engineer in packaging design. Saitz earned a bachelors degree in engineering from Trinity College in Hartford, Conn., and a masters degree in engineering management from Northeastern University in Boston. About Rockwell Automation Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 25,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit www.rockwellautomation.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005226/en/ Marci Pelzer Director, External Communications +1 414-553-4661 [email protected] Source: Rockwell Automation, Inc. FILE PHOTO: The Apple logo is seen at an Apple Store in Brooklyn, New York, U.S. October 23, 2020. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo By Blake Brittain WASHINGTON - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday again declined to hear Apple Inc's bid to revive an effort to cancel three Qualcomm Inc smartphone patents despite the settlement of the underlying dispute between the two tech giants. The justices left in place a lower court's decision against Apple after similarly turning away in June the company's appeal of a lower court ruling in a closely related case challenging two other Qualcomm patents. Qualcomm sued Apple in San Diego federal court in 2017, arguing that its iPhones, iPads and Apple Watches infringed a variety of mobile-technology patents. That case was part of a broader global dispute between the tech giants. Apple challenged the validity of the patents at issue in this case at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's Patent Trial and Appeal Board. The companies settled their underlying fight in 2019, signing an agreement worth billions of dollars that let Apple continue using Qualcomm chips in iPhones. The settlement included an Apple license to thousands of Qualcomm patents, but allowed the patent-board proceedings to continue. The board upheld the patents in 2020, and Apple appealed to the patent-specialist U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Cupertino, California-based Apple argued it had proper legal standing to appeal because San Diego-based Qualcomm could sue again after the license expires, potentially as soon as 2025. A Federal Circuit three-judge panel, in a 2-1 ruling, dismissed the case last year for a lack of standing, finding that Apple's risk of being sued again was speculative and the challenge would not affect its payment obligations under the settlement. Qualcomm has again argued that Apple has not shown a concrete injury to justify the appeal, just like in the "materially identical" case that the high court rejected. (Reporting by Blake Brittain; Editing by Will Dunham) FILE PHOTO: The logo of Swiss bank Credit Suisse is seen at an office building in Zurich, Switzerland September 2, 2022. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann/File Photo ZURICH (Reuters) - Credit Suisse saw sharp falls in its shares and bonds on Monday as markets put the bank under intense scrutiny. The Swiss bank has insisted its capital and liquidity are strong, saying it will have more to say about a strategic revamp when it releases third-quarter results on Oct. 27. WHY IS CREDIT SUISSE IN THE SPOTLIGHT? A string of losses, high-profile risk management failures and changes of top leadership have drawn investor scrutiny of Switzerland's second-biggest bank. Credit Suisse had to raise capital, halt share buybacks, cut its dividend and revamp management after losing more than $5 billion from the Archegos collapse in March 2021, when it also had to suspend client funds linked to failed financier Greensill. A spying scandal forced then-CEO Tidjane Thiam to quit in 2020, and Switzerland's financial regulator said Credit Suisse had misled it about the scale of its surveillance. His successor Thomas Gottstein lasted until July 2022, when Credit Suisse turned to restructuring expert Ulrich Koerner as CEO and launched a second strategic review within a year to focus on its flagship wealth management business and prune back investment banking. Chairman Axel Lehmann took over in January from Antonio Horta-Osorio, who resigned over breaking quarantine rules during the COVID-19 pandemic less than nine months after joining. Horta-Osario's predecessor, Urs Rohner, admitted when he left office last year that the bank had disappointed clients and shareholders, and not for the first time. Credit Suisse's losses have hit nearly 4 billion Swiss francs ($4 billion) over the past three quarters alone, while its financing costs have surged amid ratings downgrades. WHAT OPTIONS DOES IT HAVE? Credit Suisse has said it wants to strengthen its wealth management franchise, scale back its investment bank into a "capital-light, advisory-led" business, and evaluate strategic options for the Securitized Products business. Analysts estimate it could face a capital shortfall of around 4-6 billion Swiss francs, depending on what it does to scale back its investment bank and how much it raises from asset sales, to restructure, support growth and have a safety cushion. "Asset sales will help but 4 billion Swiss francs is likely to come in the form of a highly dilutive capital raise. The good news is some of this is already in the share price," analysts at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods wrote in a note. A directed capital increase at a major shareholder could be an option. As a last resort, Credit Suisse could seek state aid. HOW IMPORTANT IS THE BANK? Since its foundation in 1856, Credit Suisse has played a central role in the history and development of Switzerland. It was set up by Swiss politician and businessmen Alfred Escher to finance the country's railways and support industrialisation. Through a series of mergers and acquisitions, it has grown to become the second-biggest lender in Switzerland and one of the biggest banks in Europe. It had just over 50,000 employees and 1.6 trillion Swiss francs ($1.62 trillion) in assets under management at the end of 2021. Credit Suisse has a domestic Swiss bank plus wealth management, investment banking and asset management operations. The Swiss National Bank has designated it one of Switzerland's global systemically important banks, whose failure would cause "significant harm to the Swiss economy and financial system". HOW HAS THE MARKET REACTED? Credit Suisse shares have fallen more than 55% this year, while its euro-denominated bonds hit record lows on Monday. Credit default swaps for Credit Suisse - instruments used to insure exposure to the lender's debt - stood at 250 basis points (bps) on Monday - a sharp increase from the 57 bps at the start of the year. ($1 = 0.9876 Swiss francs) (Reporting by Michael Shields and John Revill; Editing by Alexander Smith) FILE PHOTO: The logo of technology company Nvidia is seen at its headquarters in Santa Clara, California February 11, 2015. REUTERS/Robert Galbraith (Reuters) - U.S. chipmaker Nvidia Corp said on Monday it is ceasing all activities in Russia and giving employees there the option of continuing their jobs in other countries. "After previously suspending shipments to the country, we had continued to maintain our office to support our employees and their families. With recent developments, we can no longer operate effectively there," it said in an emailed statement. (Reporting By Jane Lanhee Lee; Editing by Chris Reese) Achiko reports an EBITDA loss of USD $1.9 million, compared to an EBITDA loss of USD $4.6 million for the six months ending June 30, 2021. Focal points of the first half year were completion of a major new sales contract in Indonesia, obtaining a CE Mark for AptameX and streamlining the organization ahead of launching and scaling production for sales to Indonesia and other countries. AptameX, Achikos proprietary low-cost, saliva-based Covid-19 diagnostic, has shown competitive product performance to other Covid-19 testing solutions with calibration testing confirming its ability to deliver a >97% sensitive and >97% specific rapid test at a wider range of viral loads than most other rapid tests. After the balance sheet date, raised CHF 1.25 million in financing with sophisticated investors. ZURICH, Switzerland, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Achiko AG (SIX: ACHI; OTCQB: ACHKF; ISIN CH0522213468) (Achiko, the Company) is pleased to announce its financial results for the period of six months to June 30, 2022, and its progress since then which can be found at https://www.achiko.com/financials. In the first half of 2022, Achiko AG has confirmed that calibration testing of its affordable non-invasive Covid-19 saliva-based rapid test technology, AptameX, indicated the systems ability to deliver a >97% sensitive and >97% specific rapid test at a wider range of viral loads than most other rapid tests. The ability to offer healthcare professionals a practical alternative to PCR tests and less accurate antigen based rapid tests has been a major driver for Achikos research and clinical development teams to produce the worlds first scale application using DNA aptamers in a commercial diagnostic setting, said Mr. Steven Goh, CEO of Achiko. The use of differentiated chemistry to develop a range of non-invasive, highly accurate, and cost-effective rapid tests with Achikos AptameX technology, positions the Company at the leading edge of diagnostic development moving forward. Despite another challenging period for the Company, it has made significant progress with its initial commercial application of its AptameX technology and expects to be generating significant revenue from AptameX in Indonesia in the final quarter of 2022. Commercialization in Indonesia and BeyondA key focus of operations during the reporting period was to progress the Companys efforts to successfully launch a scalable test product in Indonesia. As part of this, the Company completed its pre-sales validation process in Indonesia with first generation test kits and identified a range of improvements that are being incorporated into its second-generation product. Key materials are now being produced in Taiwan and scale plastics and assembly being undertaken in Indonesia. In April, the Company signed a major marketing and sales agreement with Pengurus Wilayah Nahdlatul Ulama DKI Jakarta (PWNU), the Jakarta District of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), the largest Islamic organization in the world, located primarily in Indonesia. The agreement provides for the supply and delivery of aptamer-based diagnostics, first to its Jakarta branch of over 4 million members, and on success, to the larger membership of over 90 million registered members. At the same time, the Company signed an updated agreement with PT Indofarma TbK (Indofarma) to use its sister digital passporting service Teman SehatTM (Health Buddy) as a telehealth platform for its diagnostic services. Indofarma is one of Indonesias oldest pharmaceutical companies (part owned by the Government). It supplies over 13,000 pharmacies, 4,000 hospitals, and 9,000 health facilities. It also conducts testing in over one hundred airports and is a national manufacturer of medical devices and the National Contract Research Organization. In May, the Company successfully registered AptameX under the European Union Medical Device Research and In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation and obtained a CE Mark that grants it access to 27 countries in the European Union for its Covid-19 AptameX test and system. Financial ResultsAchiko concluded the first half of 2022 with an operating loss of USD $2.4 million in comparison to a loss of USD $4.6 million in the first half of 2021. The Company reduced its expense base in Switzerland and focused its development efforts through one primary research and development team. The ability to manage costs with a reduced footprint has been important during a challenging period for the Company. Delays with completing the full year accounts and subsequent audit took up a considerable amount of management time and attention and contributed to the Companys delay to raise sufficient finance in time to launch and scale production in Indonesia as planned before the end of the period. Post balance date, the Company has completed CHF 1.25 million in financing by a number of sophisticated investors. Funds are being applied to launching and scaling commercialization efforts in Indonesia and beyond and bringing the Company towards good standing. Steven Goh commented: We are grateful to our shareholders and our partners for their help and support and look forward to a brighter finish to 2022 and beyond. AptameX: Product Development, Sales, and Market OutlookAchikos core objective is to bring access to better, more affordable, and accurate diagnostics, Goh added. With its AptameX technology, the Company is well placed to take advantage of major healthcare trends including delivering increasingly accurate diagnosis at Point of Care by non-invasive means and using technology to deliver rapid results in real time. AptameX offers public health assurance through early detection by regularly using a telehealth platform for diagnostics equipped with the latest technological diagnostic tests that are comfortable, accurate and affordable. Despite delays in production to meet forecast demand, the outlook for AptameX in Indonesia remains encouraging and the Company expects to be producing and delivering over one million tests per month in the final quarter of this calendar year. Samples are also being produced for use in other Asian countries, Europe, and the Middle East. Corporate Initiatives During the Reporting Period, the Company welcomed Mr. Derek Brandt as a Member of its Advisory Board and after balance date farewelled Ms. Carol Aebi. The Company is moving to strengthen its corporate leadership in Finance and other important functions with a series of key executive appointments. Further details shall be released in advance of and as part of the upcoming AGM that will now be held in late October / early November at a date to be announced. ABOUT ACHIKO AG Achiko AG (SIX: ACHI.SW; OTCQB: ACHKF; www.achiko.com) is developing disruptive diagnostic solutions that put people first. The Companys lead product, AptameX, is a rapid, reliable Covid-19 test with a companion app, Teman Sehat, offering a user-friendly digital health passport. AptameX and Teman Sehat were launched in Indonesia in mid-2021 and AptameX received the CE Mark in the European Union in May 2022. The AptameX DNA aptamer tests can be rapidly chemically synthesized, are cost-effective, easily scalable and have broad potential across multiple disease areas. Achiko aims to deliver fast, accurate and affordable diagnostic testing for a range of diseases in the rapidly evolving healthcare diagnostics field. Headquartered in Zurich, Achiko has offices in Jakarta, and staff around the world. Media contacts: ACHIKO AGInvestor RelationsE: [email protected] Switzerland & GlobalMarcus BaloghFarner Consulting LtdE: [email protected]T: +41 44 266 67 67 Disclaimer This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Achiko AG and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance, or achievements of Achiko AG to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Achiko AG is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Source: Achiko AG Correction of Annex No 1 (Draft decision) and Annex No 2 (Ballot paper) was made. Notice is hereby given that on the initiative and by the resolution of the Board of AB Klaipedos nafta, legal entity code 110648893, with the registered office at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda (hereinafter - the Company), Exraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company will be held on 20 October 2022 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Companys office at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda, in the administrative office of the Company (in the hall of the meeting on the 2nd floor). Agenda of the meeting: Regarding the approval of amendment of Remuneration Policy of AB Klaipedos nafta. The shareholders will be registered from 12:00 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. The persons intending to participate in the meeting shall have a personal ID document (an authorized representative shall have an authorization approved under the established procedure. The natural persons authorization shall be notarized. An authorization issued in a foreign state shall be translated into the Lithuanian language and legalized under the procedure prescribed by the laws). A shareholder or his proxy shall have the right to vote in writing in advance by filling in a general ballot paper. At the request of the shareholder, the Company shall send a general ballot paper to the shareholder by registered mail free of charge at least 10 days before the meeting. The filled-in general ballot paper and the document attesting the voting right shall be submitted to the Company no later than until the meeting, sending by registered mail or providing them at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. The shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes may propose additions to the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders by submitting with every proposed additional item of the agenda a draft resolution of the general meeting of shareholders or, when no resolution is required, an explanation. Proposals on addition to the agenda shall be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: [email protected] and [email protected] . The agenda shall be supplemented if the proposal is received no later than 14 days before the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. If the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders is supplemented, the Company shall notify on the additions no later than 10 days before the meeting in the same ways as in the case of convocation of the meeting. The shareholders, who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes, at any time before the general meeting of shareholders or during the meeting, may propose new draft resolutions on items which are or will be included in the agenda of the meeting. The proposals may be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: [email protected] and [email protected] . The shareholders shall have the right to submit to the Company in advance questions relating to the items on the agenda of the meeting. The shareholders may submit their written questions to the Company on business days or send by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice no later than 3 business days before the meeting. The Company will reply to the questions by e-mail or in writing before the meeting, except the questions which are related to the Companys commercial (industrial) secret, confidential information or which have been submitted later than 3 business days before the meeting. The Company does not provide the possibility of participating and voting at the meeting by means of electronic communications. The shareholder shall have the right to authorize through electronic communications means another person (natural or legal) to participate and vote in the meeting on behalf of the shareholder. No notarization of such authorization is required. The shareholder must confirm the proxy issued through electronic communications means by an electronic signature developed by a secure signature-creation device and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The shareholder shall inform the Company on the proxy issued through electronic communications means to the following e-mails: [email protected] and [email protected] no later than until the last business day before the meeting at 1:00 p.m. The proxy and the notice must be issued in writing. The proxy and the notice to the Company shall be signed with the electronic signature but not the letter sent by e-mail. By submitting the notice to the Company, the shareholder shall include the internet address from which it would be possible to download software free of charge to verify the shareholders electronic signature. The record date of the meeting shall be 13 October 2022 (only those persons who will be shareholders of the Company at the close of the record date of the general meeting of shareholders or their authorized persons, or persons with whom an agreement on assignment of the voting right has been executed, may participate and vote at the general meeting of shareholders). The shareholders of the Company may familiarise with the draft resolution of the meeting and the form of the general ballot paper under the procedure prescribed by the laws in the registered office of the Company at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda (tel.: 8 46 391636), or on the Companys website at http://www.kn.lt/ . The following information and documents shall be provided on the abovementioned internet website of the Company: - The notification on convocation of the meeting; - Total number of the Companys shares and the number of shares with voting rights on the convening day of the meeting. Enclosed: Draft decision; Ballot paper; Remuneration policy. Mindaugas Kveksas, Chief Financial Officer, +370 46 391 772 Attachments New York, New York, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Easy Spirit, the original womens comfort footwear brand, announced its annual participation in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Beginning October 1st, in partnership with Breastcancer.Org and their mission to provide free expert guidance and support to everyone affected by breast cancer worldwide; Easy Spirit has committed to donate 20% of proceeds from its Move for Pink capsule collection, directly benefiting the organization. Breastcancer.org founded by chief medical officer Dr. Marisa Weiss is a leading free source of patient-focused breast cancer information and an online community for people impacted by breast cancer. Founded 22 years ago, Breastcancer.org continues to give everyone with breast cancer the expert guidance needed beyond a brief doctor's visit by providing reliable, easy-to-understand, and actionable information and support services so each person can make the best decisions for their life. Womens health continues to be a foundational pillar for Easy Spirit. As a solutions-based brand, Easy Spirit has integrated the features and benefits its best known for into this capsule collection to benefit the customer. The Move for Pink capsule collection features two sneaker silhouettes designed to be heavy on the benefits, and light on you. The Punter Walking Shoe ($79) is known best for its superior breathability, padded collar, tongue and arch support. Its shock absorbing midsole provides optimal comfort. The Maxine Walking Shoe ($99) features the Easy Spirits newly launched EMOVE technology as well as maximum support, superior cushioning, and shock absorption- designed to propel you forward with every step. The brands month-long breast cancer awareness initiative will also continue its recently launched Make a Move pledge. Make a Move was created to encourage Easy Spirits customers and social following to get moving for a minimum of twenty minutes a day while motivating each person to find their personal journeys to getting and staying healthy, no matter their fitness levels. For over 35 years, Easy Spirit has continued to be a fierce champion of movement, believing movement is more than physical. Movement strengthens the body and mind, builds community and help others every step of the way. Movement has a long list of health benefits, including reducing the risk of breast cancer, easing treatment side effects like fatigue and depression, and so much more! Easy Spirits Move for Pink collection will be sold on https://easyspirit.com/collections/move-for-pink as well as participating wholesale doors including Macys, Nordstrom, and Belk until October 31, 2022. ### ABOUT EASY SPIRIT With a legacy rooted in creating simple solutions, the story of Easy Spirit has always been one of innovative thinking. Over the last 35 years, women have evolved and so have we. Now, more than ever, we know its about more than just shoes. Being comfortable in your own skin and making life easier is what matters most. Today, we continue our mission we are makers of shoes and experiences that are all about making life easy for all women. Because anything is possible when youre comfortable. Live your best life every step of the way in Easy Spirit. ABOUT MARC FISHER FOOTWEAR COMPANY Established in 2005, Marc Fisher Footwear Company is a leading full-service, product-driven fashion footwear company with knowledge and expertise in design, sales, sourcing, distribution, and marketing all with dedicated and strategic direction for each brand within the portfolio, which includes Easy Spirit, Calvin Klein, Nine West, EARTH, Tommy Hilfiger, GUESS, G by Guess, Bandolino, indigo rd., UNISA, and Airwalk along with the namesake brands Marc Fisher and Marc Fisher LTD. Our diverse portfolio of globally recognized brands available domestically and internationally via wholesale and retail channels consistently meets the widest range of consumers fashion footwear needs, from classic to contemporary, sport to dress, men to women. Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, with showrooms in New York City, Marc Fisher Footwear is sold worldwide through department stores, specialty stores and e-commerce channels. ABOUT BREASTCANCER.ORG Breastcancer.org is a leading patient-focused resource for breast health and breast cancer education and support. Their mission is to engage and empower people with research, expert information, and a dynamic peer support community to help them make the best decisions for their lives. The nonprofit organization, founded in 2000 by chief medical officer Marisa C. Weiss, M.D., has reached 210 million people worldwide since inception. Visit Breastcancer.org for more information. Related Links https://www.breastcancer.org/ Attachment Source: Easy Spirit Footwear VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Eldorado Gold Corporation (Eldorado, the Company or We) is pleased to provide an update on exploration results at Lamaque, Efemcukuru and Olympias since our last exploration update published in March 2022. So far this year, the Company has completed over 85,000 metres of exploration drilling and is on track to complete the planned 2022 drilling program of 140,000 metres. We are encouraged by the results and progress of our 2022 exploration program across the portfolio, said George Burns, President and CEO of Eldorado Gold Corporation. New results demonstrate the significant potential to increase resources at Ormaque, supporting our development strategy in Quebec. As well, the completion of the Ormaque exploration drift early in the third quarter has provided access to drill platforms for resource conversion drilling of the upper two-thirds of the Ormaque deposit. Additionally in Quebec, our team is advancing other near mine and district opportunities in the Val-dOr region, capitalizing on our expanded regional footprint. At Efemcukuru, we have encouraging results from initial drilling at the previously untested West Vein system, and resource conversion drilling is continuing on the Kokarpinar and Bati vein systems. We expect to incorporate results of the conversion drilling in our updated reserves and resource statement by the end of the year, continued Burns. The discovery of the North Zone extension at Olympias highlights the outstanding resource expansion potential at this world-class asset. Resource Expansion Drilling Highlights Lamaque (Quebec): At Ormaque, step-out drillholes have identified extensions of several of the mineralized zones well outside of the current resource area. Notable step-out intercepts include: 2.0 metres at 67.01 g/t gold in drillhole LS-21-078, corresponding to zone E040; 1.75 metres at 16.76 g/t gold in drillhole LS-21-078, corresponding to zone E200; 4.0 metres at 13.15 g/t gold (53.08 g/t gold capped) in drillhole LS-21-085, representing a new mineralized lens below the current resource; and, 5.0 metres at 16.37 g/t gold in drillhole FOR-22-022. Efemcukuru (Turkiye): At Efemcukuru, encouraging drilling results from the previously untested West Vein target area highlight the resource growth potential outside of the Kestane Beleni and Kokarpinar vein systems. These include intercepts of: 2.05 metres at 16.76 g/t gold and 1,702.0 g/t silver in drillhole KV-837; 1.85 metres at 19.73 g/t gold and 73.0 g/t silver in drillhole KV-833; 2.0 metres at 7.96 g/t gold and 17.9 g/t silver in drillhole KV-834; and, 1.35 metres at 13.00 g/t gold and 15.0 g/t silver in drillhole KV-842. Kassandra Mines (Greece): At Olympias, step-out drilling from the North Zone demonstrates the high-grade resource growth potential situated close to existing development in the upper part of the operating mine, including new intercepts of: 6.1 metres at 20.60 g/t gold and 668.4 g/t silver in drillhole Ol-1109; 5.5 metres at 10.66 g/t gold and 19.5 g/t silver in drillhole Ol-1110; and 5.2 metres at 4.33 g/t gold and 73.6 g/t silver in drillhole Ol-1108. Note: Gold grades for drillhole intervals listed in this release are based on capping individual assays at 70 g/t gold for the Ormaque deposit. Drillhole intercepts are drillhole lengths; where sufficient geological control exists, estimated true thicknesses of mineralized zones are in Appendix 1. The Company has also been advancing conversion drilling programs of inferred resource zones, most significantly at Efemcukuru (Bati and Kokarpinar veins) and Lamaque (Ormaque Deposit), with over 80,000 metres forecast for the year. Interactive VRIFY 3D Model To view an interactive 3D model that includes the results announced today use the following link or visit Eldorado Gold's website: https://vrify.com/decks/12109?auth=22ed5dd7-18ca-4b12-b767-eb6ade4a7bb5 Lamaque (Quebec) The Companys Eastern Canada exploration priorities include resource expansion and resource conversion drilling at the Ormaque and Triangle deposits, advancing other brownfields opportunities in the Val-dOr camp, including the Bourlamaque (formerly QMX) property, and exploring several outlying properties in the southern Abitibi region. Ormaque Deposit Resource expansion drilling at Ormaque totals over 16,000 metres year to date (16,900 metres planned). This drilling has identified both lateral extensions to known mineralized zones and new zones below the current mineral resources. The step-out drilling program has confirmed that high-grade veins similar in style and geometry to those hosting the Ormaque deposit extend for a distance of at least 250 metres east of the current resource, including the area that was formerly referred to as the Fortune zone. Notable results since the March 2022 exploration update news release include: 2.0 metres at 30.58 g/t gold (67.01 g/t gold uncapped) (drillhole LS-21-078) in lens E040, corresponding to a 50 metre step-out from the current resource; 1.75 meters at 16.76 g/t gold (drillhole LS-21-078), corresponding to a 270 metre step-out to the west of the current resources and a possible extension of lens E200; 4.0 metres at 13.15 g/t gold (53.08 g/t gold uncapped) (drillhole LS-21-085) representing a new mineralized lens approximately 180 metres below the current resource; and 5.0 metres at 16.37 g/t gold (drillhole FOR-22-022) from approximately 250 metres south-east of the current resource, representing a potential new zone in a poorly tested area. Figure 1: Geological map of the Ormaque deposit area, showing surface projection of mineralized zones (pink shaded area), collar locations and surface traces of new drillholes presented in this news release.https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0039bec1-676c-4fba-9fd4-d75cb3414fbd The Ormaque exploration drift project was completed on schedule in early July, providing underground platforms for further drilling of the deposit. Resource conversion drilling from the drift commenced in June and is expected to include approximately 28,000 metres of drilling to be completed during the remainder of 2022 and 2023, targeting the upper two-thirds of the Ormaque deposit. Partial results will be incorporated in the Companys 2023 Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource update. Lamaque Brownfields Program Update Outside of Lamaque, the Company has completed over 36,000 metres of brownfields exploration drilling in 2022 in the Val-dOr region, most significantly at the Bevcon, Herbin, and Bruell projects. Figure 2: Geological map showing outline of the Lamaque / Bourlamaque and Bruell license areas and locations of projects reported in this news release.https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7f54fa5-8781-4395-9033-29782561182f Exploration drilling at the Bevcon project is targeting extensions to the mineralized zones that were historically mined at the Bevcon mine (production of 478,000 ounces at a grade of 4.35 g/t gold from 1947 to 1965). Approximately 22,000 metres (36 drillholes) were drilled in late 2021 and early 2022, testing a target area extending over an east-west strike length of 1,500 metres along the northern margin of the Bevcon intrusion. Several of these holes intersected high-grade, south-dipping extension veins similar to those which were exploited in part of the mine. Results of the 2022 drilling program are being integrated with historic mine data and drilling results from the previous owner (QMX Gold) to determine follow-up plans. Two drill rigs are currently operating at the Herbin project, with over 9,000 metres (20 drillholes) of the 13,000 metre 2022 program now completed. Drilling from a barge-mounted drill rig and from platforms on land has extended some of the mineralized structures which were historically mined at the Lac Herbin mine, some 300 metres to the west and south. Assay results are still pending. Since 2019 the Company has been exploring the Bruell project, located 40 kilometres east of Val-dOr, under an option agreement with Sparton Resources. Expenditure commitments and cash payments have now been fulfilled to grant Eldorado 75% ownership in the 29-square-kilometre Bruell property. Exploration completed under the option agreement includes targeting programs consisting of geophysical surveys, mapping, and till and outcrop sampling, more recently culminating in 4,745 metres of diamond drilling (11 drillholes) in 2022 testing a variety of targets on the property. Efemcukuru (Turkiye) Recent exploration drilling at Efemcukuru has targeted untested veins in the western part of the license area. These veins, located between 400 and 1,500 metres west of the currently producing Kestane Beleni vein, include the Muhtar (I and II), Huseyinburnu, Dedebag, and Volkan veins, collectively referred to as the West Veins. They have been mapped over a cumulative strike length of over 4.5 kilometres, and extensive outcrop and trench sampling identified high-grade gold values on surface in numerous locations. Earlier this year, Eldorado acquired the exploration license underlying the western extension of several of the veins, which expanded Eldorados footprint in the region. Figure 3: Geology map showing the Efemcukuru West Vein system and gold assay results (grams/tonne) from surface outcrop and trench samples.https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/23c498cc-ee19-4743-bb25-0e5d24c753c7 Initial drill testing of parts of the Muhtar II vein began in early 2022 with a total of 7,030 metres in 23 drillholes completed to date. Several have intersected significant gold and silver mineralization within a segment of the vein measuring approximately 100 metres in strike length and extending downdip for approximately 250 metres. Notable intercepts include: 2.05 metres at 16.76 g/t gold and 1,702.0 g/t silver (drillhole KV-837); 1.85 metres at 19.73 g/t gold and 73.0 g/t silver (drillhole KV-833); 2.0 metres at 7.96 g/t gold and 17.9 g/t silver (drillhole KV-834); and, 1.35 metres at 13.00 g/t gold and 15.0 g/t silver (drillhole KV-842). Ongoing drilling of the West Vein target area is currently testing the step-out of the Muhtar veins, and will shift to the Huseyinburnu, Volkan and Dedebag vein targets later in the year and into early 2023. Resource conversion drilling at Efemcukuru has been focused on the Kokarpinar and Bati vein systems. Kokarpinar and Bati are satellite vein systems to the Kestane Beleni vein, which contains all mining to date and hosts the majority of the reserves at Efemcukuru. Over 42,350 metres of resource conversion drilling has been completed on the Kokarpinar and Bati vein systems at Efemcukuru since the previous Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource statement update, announced in December 2021. This drilling has targeted the northern part of the Kokarpinar South vein, and most of the inferred resource areas in both Bati 1 and Bati 2 veins. Results of the conversion drilling at Efemcukuru will be incorporated in the Companys 2022 Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource update, expected later this year. Kassandra Mines (Greece) At the Olympias operation in Greece, recent underground exploration drilling has targeted extensions to high-grade indicated and inferred resource lenses of the North Zone in the upper part of the mine. In the 2022 program, a total of 1,151 metres were drilled in 10 drillholes at the North Zone. Several of these intersected high-grade massive sulfide intervals up-dip from the current resource, including: 6.1 metres at 20.60 g/t gold and 668.4 g/t silver (drillhole Ol-1109); 5.5 metres at 10.66 g/t gold and 19.5 g/t silver (drillhole Ol-1110); and 5.2 metres at 4.33 g/t gold and 73.6 g/t silver (drillhole Ol-1108). Figure 4: Plan view projection showing location of the new North Zone step-out intercepts in the upper part of the Olympias deposit.https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2391475d-4ce8-47f2-895c-29962f47c2b1 These intercepts are in a previously untested area and represent a step-out of over 180 metres from the nearest drillholes defining the North Zone. The North Zone remains open both along strike and up-dip from these intercepts and further step-out drilling is planned from surface drill platforms in 2023. Qualified Persons Dr. Peter Lewis P.Geo., Eldorados Vice President, Exploration, is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") responsible for, and has verified and approved, the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release for projects in Turkiye and Greece. Jacques Simoneau. P.Geo a member in good standing of the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec, is the qualified person as defined in NI 43-101 responsible for, and has verified and approved, the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release for the Quebec projects. Eldorado operates its exploration programs according to industry best practices and employs rigorous quality assurance and quality control procedures. All results are based on half-core samples of diamond drill core. For Lamaque, drill core samples were prepared and analyzed at Bourlamaque Laboratories in Val dOr, Quebec, while the Bourlamaque property samples were analyzed at the Swastika Lab in Swastika, Ontario. Drillcore samples for Efemcukuru were prepared at the Companys sample preparation lab in Cannakale, Turkiye and analyzed at ALS Minerals laboratory in Izmir, Turkiye. At Olympias, drill core samples were prepared and analyzed at ALS Facility in Romania. Silver, lead and zinc grades at Olympias were determined from an aqua regia digestion with an ICP-AES finish. All gold assays are based on fire assay analysis of a 30 gm charge (50 gm for Efemcukuru), followed by an atomic adsorption finish. Samples with gold grades above 5.0 g/t at the Lamaque project and Efemcukuru Project, 10.0 g/t at other projects were re-assayed and completed with a gravimetric finish. Certified standard reference materials, field duplicates and blank samples were inserted regularly and were closely monitored to ensure the quality of the data. About Eldorado Gold Eldorado is a gold and base metals producer with mining, development and exploration operations in Turkiye, Canada, Greece and Romania. The Company has a highly skilled and dedicated workforce, safe and responsible operations, a portfolio of high-quality assets, and long-term partnerships with local communities. Eldorado's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: ELD) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: EGO). Contact Investor Relations Lisa Wilkinson, VP, Investor Relations604.757 2237 or 1.888.353.8166 [email protected] Media Louise McMahon, Director Communications & Public Affairs604.757 5573 or 1.888.353.8166 [email protected] Cautionary Note about Forward-looking Statements and Information Certain of the statements made and information provided in this press release are forward-looking statements or information within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. Often, these forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", continue, projected, "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information contained in this release include, but are not limited to, statements or information with respect to: our planned future drilling and exploration work programs, including for the remainder of 2022, and the timing and anticipated benefits thereof; our expectations regarding establishment of reserves and resources through our continued exploration programs, the success of our exploration programs at Lamaque, Efemcukuru and Olympias; the growth potential at Ormaque, Efemcukuru and Olympias; growth opportunities within the land acquired through QMX Gold; mineral reserves and resources, our guidance and outlook, including expected production and recoveries of gold, planned capital and exploration expenditures; our expectation as to our future financial and operating performance, expected metallurgical recoveries, gold price outlook; and our strategy, plans and goals, including our proposed exploration, development, construction, permitting and operating plans and priorities, including timelines and schedules. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. We have made certain assumptions about the forward-looking statements and information, including assumptions about: how the world-wide economic and social impact of COVID-19 is managed and the duration and extent of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations, the results of our exploration programs; the need for additional financing to explore and develop properties; mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries, uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drill results and geological tests, the geopolitical, economic, permitting and legal climate that we operate in; the future price of gold and other commodities; the global concentrate market; exchange rates; anticipated costs and expenses; production, the impact of acquisitions, dispositions, suspensions or delays on our business and the ability to achieve our goals. In particular, except where otherwise stated, we have assumed a continuation of existing business operations on substantially the same basis as exists at the time of this release. Even though our management believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statement or information will prove to be accurate. Many assumptions may be difficult to predict and are beyond our control. Furthermore, should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others: global outbreaks of infectious diseases, including COVID-19; timing and cost of exploration, drilling, work programs, construction, geopolitical and economic climate (global and local), uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drill results and geological tests; the need to obtain additional permits and governmental approvals, risks related to the updating of our resource and reserve models and life of mine plans; mineral tenure and permits; gold and other commodity price volatility; information technology systems risks; continued softening of the global concentrate market, recoveries of gold and other metals; results of test work; revised guidance; risks regarding potential and pending litigation and arbitration proceedings relating to the Companys, business, properties and operations; expected impact on reserves and the carrying value; mining operational and development risk; financing risks; foreign country operational risks; risks of sovereign investment; regulatory risks and liabilities including, regulatory environment and restrictions, and environmental regulatory restrictions and liability; discrepancies between actual and estimated production, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical testing and recoveries; additional funding requirements; currency fluctuations; community and non-governmental organization actions; speculative nature of gold exploration; dilution; share price volatility and the price of our common shares; competition; loss of key employees; and defective title to mineral claims or properties, as well as those risk factors discussed in the sections titled Forward-Looking Statements and "Risk factors in our business" in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form & Form 40-F. The reader is directed to carefully review the detailed risk discussion in our most recent Annual Information Form filed on SEDAR and EDGAR under our Company name, which discussion is incorporated by reference in this release, for a fuller understanding of the risks and uncertainties that affect the Companys business and operations. Forward-looking statements and information are designed to help you understand managements current views of our near and longer-term prospects, and it may not be appropriate for other purposes. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements or information contained herein. Except as required by law, we do not expect to update forward-looking statements and information continually as conditions change and you are referred to the full discussion of the Company's business contained in the Company's reports filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada and the U.S. Appendix 1: Tables of Assay Results Table 1: Summary of drillhole assay results from the Ormaque Deposit. Intercepts are only reported for those intervals above a 10 gram x metre cut-off. Drillhole collar locations, collar orientations, and total lengths are listed in Appendix 2. Note: true thickness not shown for intercepts with insufficient data. Drillhole From (m) To (m) Interval Truethickness Au (g/t) Au cappedat 70 g/t Zone FOR-22-022 281.5 283.1 1.6 11.92 Step-out intercept 170m east of current resource 337.25 340.65 3.4 12.35 Step-out intercept 150m east of current resource 348.2 349.5 1.3 21.97 Step-out intercept 150m east of current resource 364.5 366 1.5 7.69 Step-out intercept 160m east of current resource 592.6 597.6 5.0 16.37 Step-out intercept 250m southeast of current resource 604.4 606.7 2.3 11.92 Step-out intercept 250m southeast of current resource 612.5 613.5 1.0 14.36 Step-out intercept 250m southeast of current resource FOR-22-025 21.9 22.4 0.5 49.76 360.3 361.8 1.5 28.07 Step-out intercept 155m east of current resource FOR-22-026 56.5 57.6 1.1 1.1 9.56 Step-out intercept, new lens 220m east of current resource FOR-22-028 101.2 104 2.8 8.54 Step-out intercept 300m east of current resource 129.8 131.3 1.5 9.17 Step-out intercept 280m east of current resource FOR-22-029 62.1 66.1 4.0 2.57 Step-out intercept on E009 250m east of current resource 120.3 121.6 1.3 1.3 8.31 Step-out intercept on E010 300m east of current resource 167.0 169.0 2.0 8.25 Step-out intercept 250m east of current resource 247.5 248 0.5 114.01 70.00 Step-out intercept 280m east of current resource 300.7 301.9 1.2 50.49 41.53 Step-out intercept 250m east of current resource FOR-22-030 320.75 323.55 2.8 4.26 Step-out intercept 200m east of current resource LS-21-066 559.0 561.0 2.0 5.51 Step-out intercept 350m west of current resource LS-21-070A 246.0 247.6 1.6 10.75 New lens in the deposit 10m below lens E070 LS-21-071 267.2 268.2 1.0 14.65 Step-out intercept 120 north of the current resource LS-21-072 48.5 57.6 9.1 3.08 New lens in the deposit 80m above lens E009 104.7 105.2 0.5 57.73 New lens in the deposit 18m above lens E009 130.2 134.7 4.5 3.19 New lens in the deposit 10m below lens E009 LS-21-073 287.25 288.25 1.0 0.9 10.68 Step-out intercept, on E080 95m south of current resource 348.8 357.3 8.5 5.81 5.81 Step-out intercept 20 m below lens E100 LS-21-074 400.2 404.0 3.8 1.8 4.35 Step-out intercept, on E080 70m north of current resource LS-21-075 41.15 49.45 8.3 4.98 New lens in the deposit 75m above lens E009 124.0 125.0 1.0 1.0 10.14 Step-out intercept, on E009 20m north of current resource 243.8 247.7 3.9 3.02 New lens in the deposit 5m above lens E050 308.7 313.5 4.8 4.5 4.00 New lens in the deposit 10 m above E090 319.9 325.1 5.2 4.8 66.23 17.81 New lens in the deposit 10 m below E090 346.5 347.5 1.0 0.9 10.55 Step-out intercept, on E120 15m south of current resource 375.35 376.85 1.5 1.4 17.78 Step-out intercept, on E123 20m north of current resource LS-21-076 143.9 145.4 1.5 1.5 10.94 Step-out intercept, on E010 300m east of current resource LS-21-077 412.8 416.5 3.7 20.59 17.71 Step-out intercept 70m north of current resource LS-21-078 175.5 176.6 1.1 14.99 Step-out intercept 125m west of current resource 307.0 309.0 2.0 1.8 67.01 30.58 Step-out intercept, on E040 50m west of current resource 313.0 313.5 0.5 32.20 Interception 5m below E040 554.7 555.7 1.0 26.02 Step-out intercept 300m west of current resource 597.0 597.5 0.5 22.32 Step-out intercept 300m west of current resource 634.0 635.75 1.75 16.76 Step-out intercept 300m west of current resource 643.7 644.2 0.5 229.86 70 Step-out intercept 300m west of current resource LS-21-079 518.0 519.05 1.05 0.7 19.84 Step-out intercept, on E180 30m east of current resource LS-21-080 366.2 368.5 2.3 2.2 6.43 Step-out intercept, on E110 80m east of current resource 375.7 381.2 5.5 5.3 15.94 11.66 Step-out intercept, on E120 40m south of current resource LS-21-082 189.3 189.8 0.5 33.66 Step-out intercept 300m north of current resource 787.3 790.4 3.1 3.52 Deep intercept 150m below current resource LS-21-083 258.2 259.75 1.55 1.53 20.52 Step-out intercept, on E060 12m south of current resource 272.3 272.8 0.5 0.5 39.42 Step-out intercept, on E080 30m east of current resource LS-21-085 167.5 168.0 0.5 54.95 Step-out intercept 300m north of current resource 621.0 625.1 4.1 3.7 2.48 New lens E240, 60m below current resource 653.5 654.0 0.5 27.73 New lens 90m below current resource 770.0 774.0 4.0 53.08 13.15 New lens 180m below current resource LS-21-086 218.5 220.4 1.9 21.15 New lens 5m below lens E030 228.2 229.75 1.55 1.5 11.72 Step-out intercept, on E040 20m east of current resource 277 278.8 1.8 1.7 18.12 Step-out intercept, on E070 85m east of current resource 323 324.2 1.2 11.65 New lens in deposit between E060 and E080 413.4 435.5 22.1 16.14 10.82 E140 and E150 423.1 425.25 2.15 2.1 43.16 39.34 Step-out intercept, on E145 10m east of current resource LS-21-087 594.5 596.5 2.0 0.7 5.90 E140 Table 2: Summary of drillhole assay results from the West vein system in 2022 at the Efemcukuru Mine. Intercepts are only reported for those intervals above a 10 gram x metre cut-off. Drillhole collar locations, collar orientations, and total lengths are listed in Appendix 2. Drillhole From (m) To (m) Interval Truethickness Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) Zone KV-833 168.4 170.25 1.85 1.69 19.73 73.0 0.47 1.22 West Vein KV-834 182.7 184.7 2.0 1.81 7.96 17.9 0.34 0.63 West Vein KV-837 99.3 101.35 2.05 1.67 16.76 1702.0 0.19 0.42 West Vein KV-842 319.4 320.75 1.35 1.31 13.00 15.0 0.11 0.08 West Vein KV-843 348.3 349.8 1.5 1.39 5.39 8.0 0.08 0.11 West Vein KV-826-832, KV-835-836, KV-838-841, KV-844 No significant intercepts Table 3: Summary of drillhole assay results from extensions of ore zones at Olympias, including the North zones. Drillhole collar locations, collar orientations, and total lengths are listed in Appendix 2. Drillhole From (m) To (m) Interval Truethickness Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) Zone Ol-1102 10.6 11.6 1.0 n/a 11.00 10.0 0.07 0.18 North Zone Ol-1103 9.6 10.7 1.1 n/a 7.65 57.0 0.2 0.53 North Zone Ol-1108 41.8 47.0 5.2 3.1 4.33 73.6 0.29 0.43 North Zone and 49.0 49.7 0.7 0.4 5.86 49.0 0.16 0.2 North Zone Ol-1109 40.2 46.3 6.1 3.7 20.60 668.4 1.79 0.98 North Zone including 42.0 43.0 1.0 0.6 46.90 1500.0 3.95 1.04 North Zone Ol-1110 46.5 52.0 5.5 3.3 10.66 19.5 0.07 0.14 North Zone including 46.5 47.5 1.0 0.6 21.00 45.0 0.26 0.29 North Zone Ol-1101, 1104-1107 No significant intercepts Appendix 2: Collar locations and orientations and total lengths for drillholes listed in this news release. Table 1: Summary of drillhole collar locations and collar orientations from the Ormaque Deposit. Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length (m) Underground/Surface FOR-22-022 296045 5330310 317 180 -68 701.8 Surface FOR-22-025 296072 5330386 316 185 -69 526.2 Surface FOR-22-026 296225 5330140 318 182 -80 528.71 Surface FOR-22-028 296182 5330222 318 180 -68 544.75 Surface FOR-22-029 296174 5330175 318 350 -80 610.38 Surface FOR-22-030 296080 5330213 319 180 -80 705.8 Surface LS-21-066 295323 5330144 326 354 -65 606.0 Surface LS-21-070A 295561 5330309 326 166 -74 563.2 Surface LS-21-071 295654 5330616 318 170 -50 533.6 Surface LS-21-072 295726 5330247 325 180 -78 255.43 Surface LS-21-073 295819 5330195 324 180 -82 454.25 Surface LS-21-074 295654 5330616 318 172 -45 481.2 Surface LS-21-075 295726 5330247 325 225 -83 711.15 Surface LS-21-076 296010 5330118 323 25 -72 804.55 Surface LS-21-077 295654 5330616 318 185 -57 489.05 Surface LS-21-078 295412 5329970 325 356 -60 678.6 Surface LS-21-079 295896 5330609 321 172 -63 600.15 Surface LS-21-080 295811 5330068 324 15 -70 502.84 Surface LS-21-082 295816 5330635 316 195 -80 865.58 Surface LS-21-083 295830 5330223 324 356 -85 451.05 Surface LS-21-085 295654 5330618 318 170 -82 876.38 Surface LS-21-086 295759 5330140 318 2 -70 520.9 Surface LS-21-087 295654 5330616 318 160 -48 652.39 Surface Table 2: Summary of drillhole collar locations and collar orientations from the Muhtar II vein system, at the Efemcukuru Mine. Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length (m) Underground/Surface KV-826 496379.82 4238193.68 631.05 220 -44.7 198.0 Surface KV-827 496381.19 4238195.98 631.08 223 -70 197.1 Surface KV-828 496381.44 4238196.24 631.07 0 -90 234.0 Surface KV-829 496381.64 4238198.47 631.02 270 -45 187.3 Surface KV-830 496378.11 4238189.85 631.14 300 -50 230.4 Surface KV-831 496375.20 4238189.40 631.28 290 -22 222.5 Surface KV-832 496378.49 4238188.62 630.93 180 -45 591.1 Surface KV-833 496439.20 4238222.59 626.49 178 -35 199.2 Surface KV-834 496440.29 4238225.14 624.85 165 -55 200.0 Surface KV-835 496442.08 4238226.64 626.91 155 -40 319.5 Surface KV-836 496408.06 4238159.18 621.15 153 -27 166.8 Surface KV-837 496408.89 4238159.20 621.15 172 -27 148.3 Surface KV-838 496408.08 4238159.84 621.17 145 -38 167.3 Surface KV-839 496440.30 4238226.21 624.97 198 -43 187.3 Surface KV-840 496440.76 4238227.26 625.06 195 -60 210.4 Surface KV-841 496406.82 4238159.44 621.26 144 -27 229.2 Surface KV-842 496611.07 4238354.18 669.28 197 -40 398.2 Surface KV-843 496613.11 4238350.97 669.37 217 -44 401.0 Surface KV-844 496613.55 4238349.73 669.37 232 -48 423.3 Surface Table 3: Summary of drillhole collar locations and collar orientations from the North Zone target at Olympias. Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length (m) Underground/Surface OL-1101 478445 4493320 -80 180 50 140.0 Underground OL-1102 478446 4493320 -81 131 39 115.1 Underground OL-1103 478447 4493321 -81 96 44 133.9 Underground OL-1104 478442 4493322 -84 266 -33 69.5 Underground OL-1105 478443 4493325 -85 332 -47 66.4 Underground OL-1106 478445 4493322 -84 183 -55 115.3 Underground OL-1107 478286 4493268 -46 86 55 31.5 Underground OL-1108 478286 4493269 -46 86 57 156.5 Underground OL-1109 478285 4493265 -47 150 45 149.3 Underground OL-1110 478283 4493266 -47 205 48 173.5 Underground Figure 1 Geological map of the Ormaque deposit area, showing surface projection of mineralized zones (pink shaded area), collar locations and surface traces of new drillholes presented in this news release. Figure 2 Geological map showing outline of the Lamaque / Bourlamaque and Bruell license areas and locations of projects reported in this news release. Figure 3 Geology map showing the Efemcukuru West Vein system and gold assay results (grams/tonne) from surface outcrop and trench samples. Figure 4 Plan view projection showing location of the new North Zone step-out intercepts in the upper part of the Olympias deposit. Source: Eldorado Gold Corporation GREENSBORO, N.C., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Guerrilla RF, Inc. (OTCQX: GUER), the innovative fabless semiconductor company, is giving an investor presentation at the OTC Markets Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference at 3:30 PM ET on October 6. The presenter will be the companys VP of Investor Relations, Sam Funchess. As a growing small cap company, we are honored to have an opportunity to tell our story to the OTC investor community, said Funchess. We are looking forward to talking about some exciting new product releases that are game changers for us. Recently, we were very happy to announce our move into silicon on insulator (SOI) products with our new digital step attenuator, the GRF6402, and its novel Rapid Fire capability. Producing SOI products opens the floodgates for us to provide our customers with a wide variety of new and innovative building blocks. We also feel well positioned to capitalize on the growing demand within the automotive industry as semiconductor supply shortages begin to ease. Guerrilla RFs investor presentation will cover how the company leverages its strengths as a fabless designer of high-performance MMICs to address the needs of its strategic customers within the automotive, 5G infrastructure, and cellular repeater industries. This will be a live, interactive, online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real time. It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. To register and watch the OTC Markets Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference, visit their website: Virtual Investor Conferences (gcs-web.com). An archived replay of Guerrilla RFs presentation will be made available in their website's Investor Relations section: https://ir.guerrilla-rf.com. About Guerrilla RF, Inc. Founded in 2013 and based in Greensboro, NC, Guerrilla RF develops and manufactures high-performance microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) to wireless OEMs in multiple market segments including 5G/4G macro and small cell base stations, cellular repeaters/DAS, automotive telematics such as SDARS/V2X/GPS/DAB, military communications, navigation, and high-fidelity wireless audio. Guerrilla RF has an extensive portfolio of over 100 high-performance radio frequency (RF) and microwave semiconductor devices. The existing product line includes ultra-low noise amplifiers, gain blocks, driver amplifiers, mixers, RF switches, digital step attenuators (DSAs), and linear power amplifiers (PAs) the critical building blocks for mission-critical, performance-driven wireless applications. To date, the company has shipped over 100 million devices and has repeatedly been included in Inc. Magazine's annual Inc. 5000 list. Guerrilla RF recently made the top Inc. 500 list for the second year in a row, coming in at No. 421 and 489 for the 2020 and 2021 rankings, respectively. For more information, please visit https://guerrilla-rf.com or follow the company on Twitter and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include projections, predictions, expectations, or beliefs about future events or results or otherwise are not statements of historical fact. Such statements are often characterized by the use of qualifying words (and their derivatives) such as expect, believe, estimate, plan, project, anticipate, or other statements concerning opinions or judgments of the company and its management about future events. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult or impossible to predict and, in some cases, beyond the company's control. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described in the company's filings with the SEC available at www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. The company undertakes no obligation to revise or update information in this release to reflect events or circumstances in the future, even if new information becomes available. Contact: Sam Funchess, VP of Investor Relations[email protected]+1 336 510 7840 Source: Virtual Investor Conferences YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan disclosed new details from his recent meeting with Hikmet Hajiyev, the Assistant to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. He said that during this meeting Azerbaijan said it would release Armenian prisoners of war by September 30th, but again did not fulfill its commitment. On September 27, at the initiative of the US President Joe Bidens National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, a trilateral meeting took place between me and Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan, Hikmet Hajiev. Based on a tripartite agreement reached during this meeting, Azerbaijan had to release 17 Armenian prisoners of war captured during the September aggression by September 30th. Let me make it clear that, once again, Azerbaijan has not fulfilled its commitments, Grigoryan said in a statement. CINCINNATI, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RelaDyne announced today that its national automotive brand, DuraMAX, will supply oil to Take 5 Oil Change's network of over 750 company-operated and franchised locations across the U.S. through its direct footprint and trusted Associate Distributor Network. As part of the Driven Brands portfolio, Take 5 Oil Change, known for its unique, stay-in-your-car concept, was rated No. 1 in customer satisfaction for quick lube by JD Power in 2022 and it has been one of the fastest-growing players in the category across the U.S. and Canada. In addition to its large and growing company-operated footprint, it was named 42nd on Entrepreneur Magazine's 2022 list of the Fastest-Growing Franchises. RelaDyne, Inc., headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is the established leader in lubricant and fuel distribution plus industrial reliability services. Through an empowered and dedicated team of associates, RelaDyne strives to create incredible value in the products, tools, and marketing programs that are provided to its customers. The DuraMAX brand, which is owned by RelaDyne, is an automotive line of high-quality vehicle maintenance solutions, including full synthetic, high mileage, and synthetic blend motor oils, antifreeze, filters, wiper blades, brake cleaners, power steering fluids, and more. Based on a survey conducted by National Oil & Lube News, DuraMAX has been ranked the number one best-selling motor oil blends brand since 2018 by Quick Lube Owners. "It is with great pleasure that we announce DuraMAX and Drydene oils will be featured in all Take 5 Oil Change locations within the United States. This relationship further confirms RelaDyne's ongoing strategy of the consolidation of the lubricant marketing channel. The capabilities, responsiveness, and national footprint of RelaDyne allows for flexibility to meet our customers' everchanging requirements and ultimately drive profitability for our customers," said Larry Stoddard, President and CEO. "This exciting opportunity to partner with the Take 5 Oil Change team to deliver and install both DuraMAX and Drydene products across the U.S. demonstrates that two growth-driven teams working together can and will deliver an exceptional customer experience." "The entire team at RelaDyne is ecstatic for the conversion of U.S. Take 5 Oil Change locations to DuraMAX oil," said Dan Oehler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for RelaDyne. "Bringing the power of DuraMAX oil, marketing programs, and executional capabilities, including the DuraMAX DOLLAR$ and Warranty Programs, provide customer retention and enhanced profitability to our business customers." About RelaDyne RelaDyne, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is the nation's largest lubricant distributor in fuel, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), and industrial reliability services for industrial, commercial, and automotive businesses in the United States. RelaDyne was formed in 2010 by the combination of four well-established industry-leading companies and has since grown to more than 85 locations by strategically acquiring other industry leaders in the lubricant, fuel distribution, and industrial service segments. For more information, visit www.RelaDyne.com. Contact Information: Dan Oehler EVP | Sales and Marketing [email protected] 513-489-6000 Related Images Image 1 This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. Attachment Featured Image for RelaDyne Featured Image for RelaDyne Source: RelaDyne MIA Integral will allow for integrated operations at both ELG and Media Luna(All amounts expressed in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated) TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Torex Gold Resources Inc. (the Company or Torex) (TSX: TXG) announces the Company has received approval from Mexicos Secretariat of Environmental and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) on the key, culminating environmental permit for the Media Luna Project. The approval (MIA Integral) allows for operations to begin at Media Luna and builds on the receipt of the MIA Modification received last year, which allowed for the execution of development activities on the south side of the Balsas River. The Company has also received approval to increase the power draw at site to 45 megawatts (MW). Jody Kuzenko, President & CEO of Torex, stated: Receipt of the MIA Integral represents another key milestone in the de-risking of the Media Luna Project, and further demonstrates the ongoing support of local communities and the endorsement of State and Federal Governments of both the social and environmental facets of this project. The MIA Integral follows on the MIA Modification and Change of Land Use permits received over the last two years and integrates our environmental requirements on both sides of the Balsas River under a single authorization. With the MIA Integral in hand, the Company now has all the environmental approvals required to develop and operate Media Luna. Discussions about future in-pit tailings deposition and expanding the exploration boundaries are ongoing. The Company also recently received approval to increase the power draw at Morelos to 45 MW to accommodate activities at both ELG and Media Luna. Discussions with the utility authorities to further increase the power draw to 65 MW, required to sustainably deliver full production at Media Luna, are in process as well. ABOUT TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC.Torex is an intermediate gold producer based in Canada, engaged in the exploration, development, and operation of its 100% owned Morelos Property, an area of 29,000 hectares in the highly prospective Guerrero Gold Belt located 180 kilometres southwest of Mexico City. The Companys principal asset is the Morelos Complex, which includes the El Limon Guajes (ELG) Mining Complex, the Media Luna Project, the processing plant and related infrastructure. Commercial production from the Morelos Complex commenced on April 1, 2016 and an updated Technical Report for the Morelos Complex was released in March 2022. Torexs key strategic objectives are to extend and optimize production from the ELG Mining Complex, de-risk and advance Media Luna to commercial production, build on ESG excellence, and to grow through ongoing exploration across the entire Morelos Property. For further information, please contact: TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC. Jody Kuzenko Dan Rollins President and CEO Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations Direct: (647) 725-9982 Direct: (647) 260-1503 [email protected] [email protected] CAUTIONARY NOTE Forward Looking InformationThis press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information also includes, but is not limited to Torexs key strategic objectives to extend and optimize production from the ELG Mining Complex, de-risk and advance Media Luna to commercial production, build on ESG excellence, and to grow through ongoing exploration across the entire Morelos Property. Generally, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as forecast, plans, expects, strategic or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results will, may, could, or would occur. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties regarding the Companys ability to satisfy the conditions in the MIA Integral and the risks and uncertainties identified in the technical report (the Technical Report) released on March 31, 2022, entitled NI 43-101 Technical Report ELG Mine Complex Life of Mine Plan and Media Luna Feasibility Study, which has an effective date of March 16, 2022, and the Companys annual information form and managements discussion and analysis or other unknown but potentially significant impacts. Forward-looking information and statements are based on the assumptions discussed in the Technical Report and such other reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Source: Torex Gold Resources Inc. Retail turnover (including VAT) of Apranga Group amounted to EUR 29.0 million in September 2022 and has increased by 8.9% comparing to September 2021. In September 2022, the retail turnover of Apranga Group in Lithuania increased by 10.6% year-to-year, in Latvia increased by 8.4% and in Estonia increased by 3.5%. The turnover of September 2022 is the highest monthly turnover Apranga Group has ever reached. The retail turnover (including VAT) of Apranga Group totalled EUR 81.1 million in 3rd quarter 2022 and was 5.4% higher than in 2021. In 3rd quarter 2022, the retail turnover of the Group in Lithuania increased by 3.2%, in Latvia increased by 5.8% and in Estonia increased by 12.6% year-to-year. Due to epidemic coronavirus (COVID-19) infection, from 16 December 2020, all the Groups stores in Lithuania were temporarily closed. Stores with a separate entrance from the outside and sales area not exceeding 300 square meters were open from 15 February 2021. Stores with a separate entrance from the outside and a sales area exceeding 300 square meters were open from 15 March 2021. All Groups stores have been reopened in Lithuania from 19 April 2021, however, stores operating in shopping malls were not allowed to work on weekends, unless they had separate entrance from outside. Eventually, all Groups stores had been open in Lithuania as of 29 May 2021. In Latvia, stores were temporarily closed from 19 December 2020. Groups stores that operate in shopping malls and have separate entrance from outside had been reopened in Latvia as of 22 May 2021. Eventually, all Groups stores had been open in Latvia as of 3 June 2021. In Estonia, all Groups stores were temporarily closed from 11 March 2021 until 3 May 2021. These temporary closures had a significant impact on the Group's generated turnover in January-May 2021. In January through September 2022, the retail turnover of Apranga Group (including VAT) totalled EUR 208.8 million and was by 32.0% higher than in 2021 and by 19.0% higher than in 2019. In January through September 2022, the retail turnover of Apranga Group in Lithuania was EUR 126.4 million and increased by 26.8% year-on-year. In the same period the retail turnover of the Group in Latvia reached EUR 50.5 million and increased by 51.6%. The retail turnover in Estonia amounted to EUR 25.2 million and increased by 26.6% year-on-year. In 9 months of 2022, Apranga Group opened 3 stores, enlarged and renovated 2 stores, while 5 stores were closed. Currently Apranga Group operates the chain of 167 stores (100 in Lithuania, 44 in Latvia and 23 in Estonia) covering the gross area of 90.5 thousand sq. m., or by 1.5% less than a year ago. Rimantas Perveneckas Apranga Group General Manager +370 5 2390801 Singapore, Singapore, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TIA, the pioneer of X to Earn, also known as X2E, attends Token2049 in Singapore, the premier cryptocurrency event of the year that unites individuals from all facets of the industry. In addition to bringing together business owners, financiers, developers, crypto enthusiasts, and the international media, TOKEN2049 also fosters unrivaled networking possibilities in the crypto industry. The opportunities that stem from here will decide what happens in space in the future. TIA, on the other hand, is at the forefront of the transition. Theyre operating on Web2.0 at the moment, and they intend on upgrading and making the switch to Web3.0. These connections would empower TIA to create a smoother transition. They have 18 web 2.0 games that TIA intends to upgrade to web 3.0. One of them, the Swipe Brick Breaker, has broken records by being downloaded 30 million times and has an active user base of 1.2 million monthly users from the USA, Europe, the Middle East, and east Asia. Additionally, a blockchain-based platform called TNT, Trophies, and Treasuries will incorporate several hyper-casual games from TIA. TNT is expected to launch this year, and they wish to follow it up with a cryptocurrency coin listing down the line. On this occasion, TIAs CEO, EUYCHUL SHIN, shared his thoughts by saying, "With the advent of Cryptowinter, players who chase short-term profits will disappear, and genuinely prepared projects will most definitely survive. TIA will work closely with our reliable partners to bring new experiences to global users through collaboration." The gaming industry, worth billions of dollars, is setting new milestones every year. A sector that not only empowers gamers but has also made the swiftest transition to Web3.0. The harbinger that will establish web3.0 and bring the world together. TIA will thus empower and expedite the transformation while being present at Token2049. This would genuinely present a united front of gamers from all around the world. About TIA By building a shared X2E world that anybody can access and connect to, TIA offers blockchain content in which anyone can simply engage. Through the use of blockchain technology, several firms are creating diverse platforms. Blockchain has the benefit of being able to create a secure and transparent trade network and can simultaneously transmit a wide range of data. To advance towards a Web 3.0 future, TIA creates an X2E system based on this technology. It uses blockchain technology to develop and distribute content for people to congregate and enjoy, including games, sports, and cryptocurrency. To learn more about TIA, visit: Website | Twitter | LinkedIn Media Contact: Bardia Toussi [email protected] Source: TIA RWB Launches Platinum Vape Disposables through an Exclusive Agreement with Skybar Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. (CSE: RWB and OTC:RWBYF) ("RWB" or the "Company"), a multi-state cannabis operator and house of premium brands, announces an exclusive agreement to utilize vape technology provided by Skybar, a leading innovator in vape devices. In addition, the company is pleased to announce the debut of Platinum Vape (PV) Disposables. Platinum Vape and Skybar have extensively collaborated in creating a unique device with a custom tank and flavorful exotic terpenes catered specifically for vape consumers. The product has auto-draw technology with a High-Grade Coil and powerful battery, delivering a smooth and consistent experience without charging or setting adjustments. RWB has seen tremendous success on the launch and is proud to announce that PV Disposables are currently available in 250 dispensaries across Michigan. "RWB continues to introduce a steady stream of new products to satisfy consumer demand. Alongside the launch of PV Disposables, RWB will expand on its product depth based on flavors and formats in both gummies and live resin as they are in high demand," stated Colby De Zen, President of Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. Adding, "The Company has successfully launched both PV Live Resin Vapes and PV Gummies in Q2 and Q3 of 2022, and our expanded portfolio is now delivering hundreds of thousands of units per month across the PV collection. With our commitment to safety and user experience, we are proud to be a leader in the cannabis derivative market. We continue to be the #1 vape brand in Michigan and have introduced a wide variety of new strains, flavors and technologies to our consumers. We anticipate the new PV Disposable will be extremely popular with consumers based on value, quality, convenience and industry leading technology. The introduction of this unique disposable is another example of RWBs commitment to driving both top-line growth and increased margins to achieve our goal of profitability as an organization." As a leading, award-winning vape brand, RWB's expanded PV portfolio now includes 5/10 carts, disposables, live resin, gummies, chocolates and premium cannabis flower. The PV brand continues to exhibit strength across the United States and, according to BDSA, Platinum Vape was the #1 selling vape cartridge in Michigan in August of 2022. About Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. Red White & Bloom is a multi-state cannabis operator and house of premium brands in the U.S. legal cannabis sector. RWB is predominantly focusing its investments on the major U.S. markets, including Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, and Michigan. For more information about Red White & Bloom Brands Inc., please contact: Brad Rogers, CEO and Chairman 604-687-2038 Visit website: www.RedWhiteBloom.com, or follow RWB on social media: Twitter: @rwbbrands; Facebook: @redwhitebloombrands; Instagram: @redwhitebloombrands. Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION This press release contains forward-looking statements and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. There is no assurance that these transactions will yield results in line with management expectations. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company with respect to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following risks: risks associated with the implementation of the Company's business plan and matters relating thereto, risks associated with the cannabis industry, competition, regulatory change, the need for additional financing, reliance on key personnel, market size, and the volatility of the Company's common share price and volume. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others, risks related to the Company's proposed business, such as failure of the business strategy and government regulation; risks related to the Company's operations, such as additional financing requirements and access to capital, reliance on key and qualified personnel, insurance, competition, intellectual property and reliable supply chains; risks related to the Company and its business generally; risks related to regulatory approvals. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed a certain progression, which may not be realized. It has also assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMPANY AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PRESS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS. The post Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. (RWBYF) Platinum Vape Disposables through an Exclusive Agreement with Skybar appeared first on Marijuana Stocks | Cannabis Investments and News. Roots of a Budding Industry.(TM). COMTEX_415805835/2683/2022-10-03T08:43:38 DOVER, DE, Oct. 3, 2022 McapMediaWire Metatron (OTC Pink: MRNJ), a mobile and web technology pioneer having developed over 2,000 apps on iTunes and Google Play, is pleased to announce that the Company is officially canceling any/all plans for the reverse split that was previously announced and filed with regulators. After careful deliberation with key debtholders and Metatron advisors, the Company firmly resolved that it would not be in the best interest of the Metatron shareholders or the Company-at-large to execute a reverse split that has been in the regulatory review process. In full agreement with the counsel of debtholders and other advisors, the Company is preparing required documents that will be informing regulators that the Company will not be moving forward with the filed reverse split and will be formally requesting the split request to be cancelled. CEO Joe Riehl stated: Right on the heels of Metatron achieving a moratorium on conversions and dilution through October 31, 2022, I can proudly say that we have now put to rest any fears of a near term reverse split. The planned reverse split is being canceled, period. The Metatron executive team has complete confidence in its current business strategy to attract a broader range of new shareholders at the current price levels and believes that with value we are adding and shortly planning to add that our existing share structure makes perfect sense moving into the future. The Company also reported favorable progress in its ongoing talks with the key debtholders of Metatron. These talks primarily center around Metatrons commitment to restructure debt and organize friendly terms beneficial to all parties over the coming 12 months. The Company is also seeking to reach terms to extend the existing moratorium on dilution into November-December. The Company also updated shareholders on the recent AI acquisition. Metatron associates continue to work hand-in-hand with the seller in order to polish the online AI interface with some minor finishing touches being added. The Company has been assured that live testing will begin soon before the final reveal. CEO Joe Riehl concluded: Since establishing Metatrons new Artificial Intelligence Division, we have: 1. Successfully entered into a moratorium on dilution at least until October 31, 2022, 2. Negotiated and continuing to negotiate favorable debt restructuring with our key debtholders, 3. Successfully inked our first AI acquisition deal, 4. Getting close to inking our second AI acquisition deal, and now 5. Made a firm commitment to cancel the corporate reverse split that was previously filed. Metatron is strengthening current business relationships as well as forging new relationships that we believe will be instrumental in maximizing shareholder value in the coming weeks. Much has already been achieved and together we are on the cusp of some truly impressive announcements. The Company will continue to update our valued investors early and often! Please visit our corporate Twitter account often: https://twitter.com/MetatronInc Forward-Looking Statements: Any statements made in this press release which are not historical facts contain certain forward-looking statements, as such term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995, concerning potential developments affecting the business, prospects, financial condition and other aspects of the company to which this release pertains. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results of the specific items described in this release, and the companys operations generally, to differ materially from what is projected in such forward-looking statements. Although such statements are based upon the best judgments of management of the company as of the date of this release, significant deviations in magnitude, timing and other factors may result from business risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the companys need for additional financing, which is not assured and which may result in dilution of shareholders, the companys status as a small company with a limited operating history, dependence on third parties and the continuing popularity of the iOS operating system, general market and economic conditions, technical factors, receipt of revenues, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the company. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of such statements, and we disclaim any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement. Metatron does not grow, sell or distribute any substances that violate United States Law or the controlled substance act. Contact: [email protected] MCAP Media Wire | Home New York Digital Signage Week is a Fitting Backdrop Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - The Canadian Out-of-Home Marketing and Measurement Bureau (COMMB), the trusted source for Canadian OOH market insights for advertisers, agencies, media owners and programmatic tech-stack members, will elevate sustainability curricula during Digital Signage Week in New York City (October 10-14). Amanda Dorenberg, COMMB's president, will be sharing insights with industry leaders by co-moderating an interactive panel discussion from the United Nations headquarters. COMMB COMMB's corporate social responsibility (CSR) and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) plan includes a variety of special events with a focus on sustainability within their programming offerings, including COMMB Talks, an engaging educational forum for thought leaders to share their perspectives on relevant issues within the out-of-home (OOH) industry. Interactive webinars, and in-person discussions focusing on CSR and DEI, and sustainable activities in the creation and distribution of out-of-home marketing content will be featured. Dorenberg will be joined on the UN panel by co-moderator Dominic-Madori Davis, TechCrunch senior reporter, and curated industry experts: Lisa Peterson, owner of Aftan Engineering; Keith Kaplan, global CEO of Kinetic Worldwide; and Douglas Ragan, management officer for the UN-Habitat, the United Nations' Human Settlements Program. "It's an honor to represent COMMB by co-chairing this illustrious panel," Dorenberg said. "It's a testament to COMMB members' willingness to build and expand their sustainability efforts. This programming is part of our commitment to provide resources and educate the OOH advertising industry on how it can make a real difference in the world. It will lay the groundwork and spur creative approaches to ensuring a cleaner, greener, healthier planet." The panel is expected to address the pressing issues behind the understanding and adoption of sustainable practices, as well as the reasons behind continued customer and employee expectations that companies take leading roles in fostering social cooperation and environmental stewardship. This sustainability programming is a sought-after addition to the COMMB Talks series and will reinforce the organization's earlier work in promoting sustainable practices. Along with their previously established DEI Committee (founded earlier this year), COMMB is committed to their ongoing plans to institute programming focused on realistic and positive changes that the industry can implement. To learn more about COMMB's initiatives and upcoming programming, subscribe to the newsletter www.commb.ca/ About COMMB COMMB is the national not-for-profit organization for the Canadian OOH industry comprised of advertisers, agencies, media owners, and programmatic tech-stacks. COMMB is responsible for developing and verifying audience measurement methodologies, providing audience data and planning resources, marketing and communications, government relations, and member services. www.commb.ca Media Contact COMMB Lara Menzies [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139264 Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - Green River Gold Corp. (CSE: CCR) (OTC Pink: CCRRF) (the "Company" or "Green River") is pleased to update the progress on the 2022 exploration program at its Quesnel Nickel/Magnesium/Talc Project, located 40 kilometers from the City of Quesnel, British Columbia, in the prolific Cariboo Mining District. Figure 1. Drill Collar Locations Zone 1 and Zone 2 and two additional holes To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7403/139210_4b006c8604f7e896_002full.jpg The Company has intercepted nickel and chromium in seven additional backpack Drill Holes in Zone 2 (Drill Holes FCD-22-11 to FCD-22-17). The Company also extended the depth of Drill Hole FCD-22-08. This brings the total number of holes drilled in Zone 2 to seventeen. Every hole drilled in Zone 2, as well as all holes drilled previously in Zone 1, have intercepted nickel and chromium from surface. The drill core for all Drill Holes was delivered to the Company's facility in Quesnel and scanned with an XRF analyzer. The XRF results for nickel and chromium for each of the seventeen Drill Holes in Zone 2 are reported in the following table. Zone 2 Hole Averages Hole # Meters drilled Ni Hole Average % Cr Hole Average % FCD-22-01 5.9 0.208 0.141 FCD-22-02 2.0 0.203 0.171 FCD-22-03 3.0 0.245 0.139 FCD-22-04 5.3 0.214 0.165 FCD-22-05 5.2 0.195 0.141 FCD-22-06 4.7 0.191 0.174 FCD-22-07 6.0 0.213 0.133 FCD-22-08 7.0 0.173 0.125 FCD-22-09 4.9 0.161 0.169 FCD-22-10 5.2 0.185 0.128 FCD-22-11 6.0 0.192 0.162 FCD-22-12 3.9 0.229 0.199 FCD-22-13 2.3 0.175 0.150 FCD-22-14 4.4 0.210 0.120 FCD-22-15 6.0 0.187 0.147 FCD-22-16 7.3 0.218 0.166 FCD-22-17 4.5 0.216 0.154 Total Meters Drilled 83.6 XRF Average Grade over 17 Holes 0.200 0.152 Note: The XRF data is taken as point values and will not represent the true grade of the samples assayed. The elemental data is highly dependent on the location of which the beam intersects the rock. The device used to take the data points is an Olympus Vanta C Series handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and produces a beam spot diameter of up to 3mm. It is designed to achieve laboratory-quality results in the field and provides rapid and accurate elemental analysis and testing. Zone 2 is located approximately 8 kilometers southeast of Zone 1 which is known to contain nickel, chromium, magnesium, and talc, based on previous drilling. Zone 2 consists of a bedrock outcrop covering an area of over 1.2 square kilometers. Both Zone 1 and Zone 2 are located along the 14 kilometer long Deep Purple magnetic anomaly. The Company has also drilled two holes outside of the previously drilled Zones 1 and 2 and intersected nickel and chromium from surface in each of the holes. Drill Hole DD-22-11 was drilled from a small outcrop southeast of Zone 1, and in between the two larger outcrops known as Zone 1 and Zone 2. Drill Hole DD-22-11 averaged 0.223% nickel and 0.119% chromium over 2.5 meters. Drill Hole DD-22-12 was drilled from a small outcrop northwest of Zone 1 and averaged 0.178% nickel and 0.140% chromium over 6.6 meters. The distance between Drill Hole DD-22-12 which is the furthest hole drilled toward the northwest of the property, and Drill Hole FCD-22-13 which is toward the southeast portion of Zone 2, is approximately 10 kilometers. The drill core for these two new Drill Holes was delivered to the Company's facility in Quesnel and was scanned with an XRF analyzer. The following tables show the meter-by-meter XRF results of Drill Holes DD-22-11 and DD-22-12. As with all the previous drill holes mineralization was present from surface. Hole ID DD-22-11 Measurement Unit Average Grade % Depth (M) Ni Cr 0 to 1.0 meter 0.219 0.137 1.1 to 2.0 meters 0.230 0.090 2.1 to EOH 0.217 0.139 Grade Average 0.223 0.119 Hole ID DD-22-11 Measurement Unit Average Grade % Depth (M) Ni Cr 0 to 1.0 meter 0.170 0.185 1.1 to 2.0 meters 0.202 0.146 2.1 to 3.0 meters 0.144 0.122 3.1 to 4.0 meters 0.179 0.130 4.1 to 5.0 meters 0.197 0.131 5.1 to 6.o meters 0.176 0.120 6.1 to EOH 0.177 0.147 Grade Average 0.178 0.140 Magnesium values are not recorded with the XRF scanner so any magnesium values will have to await assay. Perry Little, President and CEO of Green River Gold Corp. comments; "We are thrilled to see a continuation of the mineralization from surface everywhere we have drilled on Zone 2. We are also very excited to see similar results from two locations outside of Zone 1 and Zone 2. Green River has yet to drill a hole anywhere on the 14 kilometer long Deep Purple anomaly that does not have similar nickel and chromium values from surface and we have drilled various locations over a 10 kilometer stretch of the property so far. We remain hopeful that the mineralization will continue over the entire Deep Purple anomaly." Figure 2 - Zone 2 with all 17 Drill Hole Locations To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7403/139210_4b006c8604f7e896_003full.jpg Future Drilling Plans on Zone 1 and Zone 2 On October 1st, The Company started a new drilling program. Green River plans to drill a total of 10 Drill Holes on Zone 2 using a Winkie drill capable of reaching depths of 100 meters in ideal conditions. The Company will also use a Winkie drill to drill deeper on two Drill Holes that were started in Zone 1 last Spring and will be drilling one additional hole in Zone 1 as well. The backpack drilling completed so far has given Green River information that has been of great assistance in choosing the locations for the deeper holes. Backpack drilling will be continuing. Quesnel Nickel/Magnesium/Talc Project Highlights: There are 3 BC MINFILE occurrences as follows: 093A 013 - Sovereign Creek - developed prospect containing talc and magnesite, and a co-incident nickel sulfide showing. 093A 130 - Sovereign - showings containing talc and nickel sulfides. 093H 061 - R.T. - showing containing nickel, chromium, and cobalt. Fontaine Lode Gold Exploration Plan: Last year, the UAV magnetic survey identified many anomalies in the area. In 2022, the exploration crew will collect soil and rock samples from the anomalous locations. Meanwhile, the vein structures, outcroppings, and mineral showings will be recorded and mapped. A backpack drill will be utilized to execute strategic drilling on the outcrops to investigate mineralized occurrences. The project geologist will summarize historical mining activities and previous exploration records. The historical records will be plotted on a map and verified during the 2022 field season. Qualified Person: Stephen P. Kocsis is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and he has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. About Green River Gold Corp. Green River Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on its wholly owned Fontaine Gold Project, Quesnel Nickel/Magnesium/Talc Project, and Kymar Silver Project which are located in renowned mining districts in British Columbia. The Fontaine and Quesnel properties straddle an 18 km length of the Barkerville and Quesnel Terranes and are contiguous to Osisko Development Corp.'s mineral claim group containing a proposed mine location at its Cariboo Gold Project. The Kymar Silver Project is located in southeast BC, approximately 28 kilometers west of the town of Invermere in the Golden Mining Division. The property is made up of two mineral tenures, totaling 1,625 hectares, along the southeast flank of Mount Catherine. For more information contact: Green River Gold Corp. Mr. Perry Little President and Chief Executive Officer [email protected] 780-993-2193 Additional information about Green River Gold Corp. can be found by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward Looking Information: This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Expressions such as "anticipates", "expects", "believes", "estimates", "could", "intends", "may", "plans", "predicts", "projects", "will", "would" and other similar expressions, or the negative of these terms, are generally indicative of forward-looking information. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. In addition, the forward- looking information contained in this release is based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as it is inherently uncertain, and no assurance can be given that the expectations reflected in such information will prove to be correct. The forward-looking information in this release is made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances. The securities of the Company have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This release is issued for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139210 Resignation of Board Chairman, Jonathan Gilbert and Shares for Debt Transactions Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - Lobe Sciences Ltd. (CSE: LOBE) (OTCQB: LOBEF) ("Lobe" or the "Company"), a Canadian Biopharmaceutical company committed to discovering and developing psychedelic derived medicines for neurologic and brain disease today announced that it has expanded its patent portfolio through the filing of international patents in Canada, the United States, Europe and Australia for Methods, Compositions and Devices for Treating Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. "This important step is a significant demonstration of our capabilities, particularly as we expand our footprint globally through conducting controlled clinical trials with our patent-pending compound and expanding our patent portfolio internationally. Specifically with the filing of PCT/US2021/028068 in critical international geographies," said Philip J. Young, Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Resignation of Board Chairman, Jonathan Gilbert and Shares for Debt Transactions On October 3, 2022, Jonathan Gilbert and the Company entered into a mutual separation agreement whereby Mr. Gilbert agreed to resign as Executive Chairman of the board of directors of the Company, effective immediately. As part of the agreement, the Company agreed to issue to Mr. Gilbert an aggregate of 5,300,836 common shares of the Company. The common shares to be issued to Mr. Gilbert will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities legislation, and further, subject to escrow restrictions whereby 1,325,209 shares will be released on each of the following dates: four months and 1 day after October 3, 2022, March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023 and September 30, 2023. "We are thankful to have had Jon as our Founder and Chairman for the last several years and wish him well in his new endeavours. Our team of highly successful biotech executives will drive the implementation of our clinical, development and regulatory strategies outlined previously, and I look forward to providing ongoing updates of our progress," said Mr. Young. "As the founder of Lobe's predecessor company, Eleusian Biosciences Corp., it is very rewarding to see the progress we have made advancing the development of our proprietary compounds. I am confident that the team is on the right track and are the right people to execute our plans. I look forward to being a long-term shareholder as we track the success of the Company moving forward," said Mr. Gilbert. On October 3, 2022, the Company and an arm's length independent consultant (the "Consultant") entered into a separate mutual separation agreement, whereby the Consultant and the Company agreed to terminate a consulting agreement entered into by the parties, effective immediately. As part of the agreement, the Company agreed to issue to the Consultant an aggregate of 4,500,000 common shares of the Company. The common shares to be issued to the Consultant will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities legislation. The shares for debt transaction involving Mr. Gilbert (as described above) will constitute a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and the minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 provided for in subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the fair market value of the subject of, and the consideration paid in the shares for debt transactions, in relation to the interested party, will not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The participation by Mr. Gilbert in the aforesaid shares for debt transaction has been approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such transaction. A material change report will be filed less than 21 days before the closing date of the transactions contemplated by this news release. The Company believes this shorter period is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances as the Company wishes to improve its financial position by reducing its liabilities as soon as possible. About Lobe Sciences Ltd. Lobe Sciences is a life sciences company focused on psychedelic medicines. The Company, through collaborations with industry-leading partners, is engaged in drug research and development using psychedelic compounds and the development of innovative devices and delivery mechanisms to improve mental health and wellness. For further information please contact: Lobe Sciences Ltd. Philip J Young, CEO [email protected] Tel: (949) 505-5623 NEITHER THE CSE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE. This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to buy any securities. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the future operations of the Company and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release (including, without limitation, statements regarding the future plans and objectives of the Company, research and development using psychedelic compounds, and the development of innovative devices and delivery mechanisms to improve mental health and wellness) 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. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of the forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including changes to the regulatory environment; that the Company's drug research and development activities may be unsuccessful; that drugs and medical devices produced by, or on behalf of, the Company, may not work in the manner intended or at all, and may subject the Company to product liability or other liability claims; that the Company may not be able to attain the Company's corporate goals and objectives; and other risk factors detailed in the Company's continuous disclosure filings from time to time, as available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. As a result, the Company cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release and the Company does not intend to update any of the included forward-looking statements except as expressly required by applicable Canadian securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139335 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - PORTOFINO RESOURCES INC. (TSXV: POR) (OTCQB: PFFOF) (FSE: POTA) ("Portofino" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its geological team has mobilized to the Allison Lake North property to follow-up on the Company's 2021 channel and grab sampling programs that reported encouraging values of up to 412 ppm lithium and 1040 ppm rubidium. Recently completed high-resolution magnetic heli-borne survey results (NR-Sept 15, 2022) combined with Portofino's previous sampling and mapping efforts will be instrumental in guiding this phase of ground prospecting, sampling and identification of mineralization typically associated with lithium-bearing pegmatites. Exploration efforts will focus on the outer edges of the Allison Lake Batholith where it comes in contact with the Jubilee Lake metasediments. Metasediments make excellent hosts for rare-element pegmatites containing Lithium, Cesium and Tantalum minerals ("LCT"). The Company's geological crew led by Emerald Geological Services (EGS) is encouraged by what has been encountered in the field thus far this month. Grey pegmatites in contact with metasediments have been discovered containing key indicator minerals of garnet and tourmaline typical of LCT-pegmatites (Figure 1). Portofino's previous sampling programs in 2021 returned anomalous rare-element results within the LCT Goldilocks Zone, a fractionation corridor outlined by Green Technology Metals (Figure 2) believed to be a zone ideal for the location of Li-mineralization such as the SJ Pegmatite. The SJ Pegmatite discovered in 1964 by Stan Johnson lies only 1.5 kilometres east of Portofino's southern claim group. This occurrence represents the largest known pegmatite outcrop in the Jubilee Lake metasediments and within the LCT Goldilocks Zone covering an exposed area of 30 x 35 metres. Sampling of the SJ Pegmatite by the Ontario Geological Survey ("OGS") in 2003 returned highly anomalous Li (140 ppm), Cs (47 ppm), Ta (173 ppm), Nb (462 ppm) and Rb (1227 ppm). Portofino's CEO, David Tafel comments: "The high-resolution magnetic survey completed this summer outlined priority prospecting and sampling areas to focus on this fall. Over the past week our team has uncovered and sampled additional pegmatite outcrops and we are looking forward to seeing the lab assay results from this sampling. New claims that we added following last year's field season are also being explored by Portofino for the first time and we are excited about the newly discovered prospects of this ground." Figure 1. Field mapping photo's taken by EGS. A) Bands of red garnets in pegmatite. B) Grey pegmatite in contact with Jubilee metasediments. C) Grey pegmatite dyke. D) Tourmaline crystals within a white pegmatite. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3751/139265_i1.jpg Figure 2. Fractionation trends and sampling within the Allison Lake Batholith from Green Technology Metals. (Modified to include Portofino's claims and 2021 sampling results). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3751/139265_im2.jpg About The Allison Lake North Property The Allison Lake North Property comprises 7 claims totaling 2,286 hectares and is located 100 kilometres east of the town of Red Lake in northwestern Ontario. Numerous lithium deposits have been delineated in northwestern Ontario and host significant reserves of lithium oxide- Li 2 O. The Property is accessible by well-established logging roads and a hydro-electric power line transects the claim group. The Property contains significant attributes that are key to the formation of lithium-bearing pegmatite dykes. It is positioned along the contact between the Allison Lake pegmatite granite batholith and the Jubilee Lake metasedimentary rocks of the Uchi Subprovince in northwestern Ontario. This important contact is now fully staked and subject to active exploration by multiple companies. Qualified Person The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The QP and the Company has not completed sufficient work to verify the information on the properties of neighbouring companies. References Breaks, F.W., Selway, J.B. and Tindle, A.G., 2003. Fertile peraluminous granites and related rare-element mineralization in pegmatites, Superior Province, North and Northwest Ontario: Operation Treasure Hunt, Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6099, 212p. About Portofino Resources Inc. Portofino is a Vancouver-based Canadian company focused on exploring and developing mineral resource projects in the Americas. Portofino has an opportunity to earn a majority interest in multiple lithium projects in Salta, Argentina and up to 100% of the Yergo Lithium property in Catamarca. The properties are situated in the heart of the world-renown Argentine Lithium Triangle and in close proximity to multiple world-class lithium projects. The Company also has the right to earn 100% interest in three northwestern Ontario, Canada lithium projects: Allison Lake North, Greenheart Lake and McNamara Lake. Portofino's South of Otter and Bruce Lake projects are in the historic gold mining district of Red Lake, Ontario, Canada proximal to the Dixie gold project discovered by Great Bear Resources and now owned by Kinross Gold Corp. In addition, Portofino holds three other northwestern Ontario gold projects; the Gold Creek property located immediately south of the historic Shebandowan mine, as well as the Sapawe West and Melema West properties located in the rapidly developing Atikokan gold mining camp. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "David G. Tafel" Chief Executive Officer For Further Information Contact: David Tafel CEO, Director 604-683-1991 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking statements. 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 include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the growth and development of the Company's business as currently anticipated. 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. 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 news 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139265 GAVAR, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Mayor of Vardenis Aharon Khachatryan held a meeting with the delegation led by Nicolas Bay, the Vice President of Reconquete, a French political party led by Member of European Parliament Eric Zemmour. Marseille city councilor, Senator for Bouches-du-Rhone Stephane Ravier was also in the delegation. The purpose of the visit was to get to know the situation in the aftermath of the Azerbaijani attack on Armenia and to raise the issues at the European Parliament and inform the French citizens. The guests visited the village of Sotk which was bombarded by the Azerbaijani military, saw the destructions, talked with the residents, filmed the area and departed from Vardenis. We hope they will duly present the reality to their society, the difficult situation in our community in the aftermath of the enemy aggression, which is very important in terms of developing an accurate opinion by the international community, Deputy Mayor of Vardenis Karen Mkrtchyan said. Khosrov Khlghatyan Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - Scope Carbon Corp.(CSE: SCPE) ("Scope" or the "Company") announces that it has granted a total of 1,500,000 stock options to directors, officers, consultants and advisors. The stock options granted are exercisable to purchase a common share of the Company at a price of $0.60 per share for a term of 5 years and subject to Scope's vesting terms. About Scope Carbon Corp. Scope is a technology company located in Vancouver, British Columbia and is focused on the commercial development of its AI-driven image software, which the Company intends to use for the identification and estimation of carbon-based lifeforms and carbon emissions, both key components in the identification of carbon credits. The Company is currently focused on the commercial development of its Technology through its research and development program, to expand its capabilities and provide a one-tool solution in carbon mapping. Contact Information James Liang, CEO [email protected] (604) 683 0911 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139373 ZURICH, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb Limited (NYSE: CB) will hold its third quarter earnings conference call on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern. The company expects to issue its third quarter earnings release and financial supplement after the market closes on Tuesday, October 25, 2022. These documents will be available on the company's investor website at investors.chubb.com. The earnings conference call will be available via live webcast at investors.chubb.com or by dialing 877-400-4403 (within the United States) or 332-251-2601 (international), passcode 1641662. Please refer to the Chubb website under Events and Presentations for details. A replay will be available after the call at the same location. To listen to the replay, click here to register and receive dial-in numbers. About ChubbChubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 34,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chubb-limited-to-hold-its-third-quarter-earnings-conference-call-on-wednesday-october-26-2022-301639196.html SOURCE Chubb Limited STOCKHOLM, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandvik will publish its third quarter results on Monday, October 17, 2022 at approximately 11:30 AM CEST. A combined webcast and conference call for investors, analysts and financial media will be held at 13:00 PM CEST. The report will be presented in a webcast and conference call by Stefan Widing, President and CEO as well as by Cecilia Felton, CFO. The presentation will be broadcasted live on our website home.sandvik Dial-in details for the conference call: SE: +46 (0) 8 505 100 31 UK: +44 (0) 207 107 06 13 US: +1 (1) 631 570 56 13 From about 12:30 PM CEST presentation slides will be available on our website home.sandvik Stockholm, October 3, 2022 Sandvik AB For further information, contact Louise Tjeder, Vice President Investor Relations, phone: +46 70 782 6374 or Johannes Hellstrom, Press and Media Relations Manager, phone: +46 70 721 1008. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/sandvik/r/invitation---presentation-of-sandvik-s-report-of-the-third-quarter-2022,c3640506 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/208/3640506/1633042.pdf Invitation - presentation of Sandvikas report of the third quarter 2022 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/invitation---presentation-of-sandviks-report-of-the-third-quarter-2022-301638703.html SOURCE Sandvik VANCOUVER B.C, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Mako Mining Corp. (TSXV: MKO) (OTCQX: MAKOF) ("Mako" or the "Company") is pleased to provide the following operational and corporate updates: On July 20, 2022 the Company announced Q2 2022 production results showing recoveries of 74.5%, below the 86% recoveries announced in connection with its metallurgical testing from 2019 (see press release dated December 13, 2019). Beginning August 10, 2022 several mill improvements were implemented to improve metal recovery. Since this date, recoveries have been averaging 85.9%. The operational data for the quarter to date and for the portion of the quarter after improvements were implemented are set out in the table below: *Preliminary results based on information obtained through September 30th, 2022 The improvements implemented are listed below: Through selective mining procedures and blending protocols, the amount of preg-robbing material going through the mill was significantly reduced. The hanging wall and foot wall appears to have a much higher preg-robbing potential than the vein and weathered lithologies and our selective mining procedures were able to separate this material effectively The mill throughput was reduced from 544 tpd in July to 449 tpd in September in order to increase the leach retention time The lower mill throughput also resulted in a grind size improvement from 77.2% passing 75 microns to 79.1% passing 75 microns The measured free cyanide in the grinding circuit fell from 14.1 ppm to 2.1 ppm through improved operational procedures. The lower cyanide levels in the grinding circuit contributed to reduced losses through preg-robbing The inventory of carbon in the CIL circuit was increased from 25 to 34 tonnes Further improvements anticipated in the coming months include: Resuming operation of the pre-leach thickener which will allow for a higher slurry density in the CIL, allowing for an increased throughput rate without sacrificing leach retention time Replacement of worn-out carbon retention screens to improve carbon loading efficiencies Akiba Leisman, CEO of Mako states that "the transition to carbonaceous fresh material from the oxide zone that we were mining in 2021 was a significant challenge for us to overcome. Nonetheless, our team's quick and diligent response through a series of testing and improvements allowed us to get back to 85.9% recoveries since August 10th. We expect our recoveries to remain around this level in the future. It is worth mentioning that even with the diminution in recoveries experienced from March to early August 2022, San Albino generated US$7.5 million in Mine Operating Cash Flow1 (see press release dated August 16th, 2022) for Q2 2022, which allowed us to invest US$2.7 million in growth exploration and repay US$1.7 million in principal for the quarter to Wexford and Sailfish, albeit this was a lower principal repayment rate than would have been the case had recoveries been as expected." Non-GAAP Measures The Company has included reference to Q2 2022 Mine Operating Cash Flow which is a non-GAAP financial measure. This non-GAAP measure is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. In the gold mining industry, this is a commonly used performance measure, but does not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate the Company's underlying performance of its core operations and its ability to generate cash flow. Mine Operating Cash Flow represents operating cash flow, excluding Nicaraguan taxes and royalties, changes in non-cash working capital and exploration expenses. Qualified Person John Rust, a metallurgical engineer, and qualified person (as defined under NI 43-101) has read and approved the technical information contained in this press release. Mr. Rust is a senior metallurgist and a consultant to the Company. On behalf of the Board, Akiba LeismanCEO About Mako Mako Mining Corp. is a publicly listed gold mining, development and exploration company. The Company operates the high-grade San Albino gold mine in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, which ranks as one of the highest-grade open pit gold mines globally. Mako's primary objective is to operate San Albino profitably and fund exploration of prospective targets on its district-scale land package. Forward-Looking Information Statements contained herein that are not historical fact are considered "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on management's current expectations, beliefs and assumptions, and includes, without limitation: expected results from mill improvements implemented to-date and those to be further implemented; and that the Company will meet its object of operating San Albino profitably while continuing to fund exploration of prospective targets. Such forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, that the mill improvements being implemented will not have the anticipated impacts; risks and uncertainties relating to political risks involving the Company's exploration and development of mineral properties interests; the inherent uncertainty of cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expense; commodity price fluctuations, the inability or failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's public filings at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking information contained herein is based on management's best judgment as of the date hereof, based on information currently available and is included for the purposes of providing investors with the Company's plans and expectations in connection with its business and operations, share and loan capital, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. 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. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mako-mining-announces-operational-update-on-recoveries-301638764.html SOURCE Mako Mining Corp. A renowned estate planning attorney, Rubenstein will support Pennington's national network of ultra-high net worth families HOUSTON, Oct. 3, 2022 Pennington Partners, a multi-family office that specializes in working with entrepreneurs, family offices, and their families, has announced that Michael K. Rubenstein has joined the firm and will lead Estate and Wealth Planning. Along with the opening of our Houston office, new members joining the firm's leadership and advisory board, and surpassing $1.7B in AUM, the hiring of Rubenstein represents Pennington's continued growth as it develops an expanded offering tailored to the particular requirements of each family it works with. Rubenstein joins Pennington after 38 years of practicing law, most recently at Schlanger Silver, a Houston-based law firm specializing in litigation, business, tax, and family law. As a partner and leader in the firm's estate planning division, Rubenstein has advised high-net-worth families, business owners, entrepreneurs, public company executives, and real estate developers. He has built a strong reputation locally assisting clients with their various trust and estate needs, as well as serving in key leadership positions with the Jewish Federation, Houston Jewish Community Foundation, Vita Living, Anti-Defamation League, Holocaust Museum-Houston, and the Emery Weiner School. He received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and a Masters in Tax from New York University; additionally, H-Texas Magazine designated him a Top Lawyer In Houston. "Houston is one of the major growth markets in the United States, and I can't imagine a better leader for us than Michael," noted Brian Gaister, co-founder and CEO of Pennington Partners. "He is extremely well-regarded by clients, colleagues, partners, and friends, is committed to supporting his local community, and his decision to join Pennington in our continued expansion marks an important moment for our firm. Under Michael's leadership, we will continue our momentum and make an even greater impact on the families with whom we work as well as the communities they reside in." Michael Rubenstein added: "I am honored to join such a great team that recognizes the financial management gap that exists for many families who are overseeing multiple advisors and act as a 'general contractor' due to the lack of aligned solutions available for managing complex wealth. Pennington's design is a true differentiator, enabling us to gain insight, strategy, and financial clarity into client needs, which is not common in my experience. I look forward to applying my knowledge in a new set of challenges, leading the firm's growth in Houston, and continuing to collaborate with clients and advisors with whom I have worked throughout my career." Pennington Partners was launched in 2016 by Brian Gaister and Rodd Macklin to provide families of complex wealth with tax and income planning expertise that is uniquely designed for their specific needs, as well as helping entrepreneurs who have experienced a successful exit in their respective companies. The firm has since expanded its offerings into related services such as household financial management, family governance, advanced planning, tax compliance, and more. One of the primary reasons for launching Pennington was to simplify the complexities that are often inherent in managing wealth. Pennington's comprehensive, customized, and unbiased approach provides clients with the intimacy of a single-family office, with the network and capabilities of a global institution. To learn more about Pennington Partners, please visit www.penningtonpartners.co. About Pennington Partners & Co.Originally founded to serve the needs of the two founding families who have built and sold companies in various industries, Pennington Partners & Co. offers a partnership of entrepreneurs and families with aligned interests, a shared vision, and a spirit of innovation. We provide a breadth of investment, wealth planning, and personal financial administration solutions that were created by and for founders, CEOs, wealth creators, and multi-generational families. We partner with successful families and their advisors by providing objective advice, strategy, sophisticated investment solutions, and family office services to generate meaningfully higher efficiency while maintaining the intimacy of a single-family office. In short, our vision is to transform the landscape of financial advice for families of complex wealth, in order to deliver better outcomes. To learn more, please visit www.penningtonpartners.co. Media ContactRyan WalkerR.J. Walker & Co.[email protected]860-930-3611 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michael-rubenstein-joins-pennington-partners-as-director-of-estate-and-wealth-planning-301639058.html SOURCE Pennington Partners & Co. A study into changing consumer relationships with commerce has uncovered the nation's obsession with vintage from what we buy, to how we buy it Three fifths of US shoppers regularly buy vintage, and many miss old products, old stores and even old jingles 2010s and 1990s, the most popular decades that shoppers would return to if given the chance to relive old-school purchasing INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Three in five (60%) US consumers regularly buy vintage items, while significant numbers wish they could revisit the shopping experience of decades past, according to new research from omnichannel customer engagement platform Emarsys. The study of 2,041 American shoppers found that 23% shop vintage to decorate their home, 19% for pure sentimental value, and 17% as a retro hobby. With 22% of Americans resolving to buy less often (as they're concerned about overconsumption), and 21% vowing to shop more sustainably at the start of the year, there's also a moral motivation to reliving the past. * Classic brands and products populate the vintage purchase list, with VHS tapes, Etch-a-Sketch, Polaroid cameras (all 23%) and lava lamps and mood rings (22%) proving the most popular. In many cases, these items recall a more peaceful time, with 20% of Americans agreeing that they missed "simpler times" where they weren't exposed 24/7 to brands across different mediums. Such items not only function in a way that is familiar for consumers, but they also serve as a slice of childhood nostalgia for consumers to take home. 31% of consumers specifically identified iconic TV commercials as something they missed from 90s marketing and shopping, with buying product through infomercials/catalogs (27%), and iconic TV jingles (24%), close behind. These numbers closely reflect the proportion of shoppers that expressed a preference for shopping in previous decades: 22% would like to revisit the stores and malls of the 1990s, while a similar 19% would head back to the 1980s to make their purchases if they could. The physical stores Americans would most happily travel back through time for include Radio Shack (24%), Blockbuster (22%), Circuit City (15%) and Borders (13%). With the influence of vintage sweeping across the entire nation from inspiring fashion design to becoming core content for influencers around the world it might not be a surprise that all ages are embracing the trend. Almost three quarters (72%) of 25-34s buy vintage, followed by 71% of 35-44s, 57% of 45-54s, and 39% of those 55+. Sara Richter, CMO at Emarsys, commented: "Retro is back! With the revival of bargain and nostalgia hunting through open markets like The RealReal and eBay, to shows like Stranger Things championing retro in pop culture, and vintage becoming a whole genre for influencer content, it's no surprise that today's shoppers are hungry for the products of their past. What is even more interesting is that it's not just what people are buying how they're buying is also undergoing a retro revival. "People are craving the personal, face-to-face service from the past but it doesn't have to just be physical stores meeting this demand for personal, friendly customer service. Shoppers are looking for retro experiences everywhere even online, and that means they're searching for shopping experiences that tap their individual emotions and are crafted with them in mind, to wherever they prefer to shop. "Shoppers are signaling that they want to be tailored to, and retailers must react - by using the data people are giving to them to create targeted 1:1 personalized offers that will really cut through the competition and show consumers they're listening. In the age of nostalgia, a broad-brush approach just won't cut it. Nimesh Shah, Marketing Director at Feel Good Contacts, commented, "Vintage is on demand now more than ever; everyone is still after a simple and traditional shopping experience. "Emarsys' data and insights have shown us that apart from price, convenience is an important factor when shopping online, where new and existing customers need their journeys to be quick and easy. "By personalizing and segmenting to the individual user, we're able to drive more sales and acquire new customers. As technology is continuously changing, it's important we adapt and make sure we provide a seamless experience for all our users." To keep up with evolving consumer demand, marketing has dramatically shifted in the last few years. Understanding how shoppers were influenced in the past as well as how technology impacts the present and will continue to impact the future of shopping allows marketers to develop a deeper understanding of how they can provide the best possible customer experience. To that end, Emarsys is encouraging consumers, brands, and marketers all over the world to attend the Emarsys Power To The Marketer festival, in association with Vogue Business, from October 4 - 6, 2022. During this three-day event, leading brands including Gibson, Saks OFF 5TH and Reformation, will come together to celebrate marketers and the impact they make every day. This festival will take place live online, in-person, and on-demand, and you can register for free. About EmarsysEmarsys, an SAP company, is the omnichannel customer engagement platform that empowers marketers to build, launch, and scale personalized, cross-channel campaigns that drive business outcomes. We partner with more than 1,500 companies from global enterprises to fast-moving mid-market brands across industries. Emarsys is purpose-built to give more power to marketers so they can: Accelerate time to value by quickly onboarding data and channels to deploy cross-channel campaigns Deliver real-time, 1:1 personalization that builds trusted, loyal, and lasting customer relationships with every interaction Succeed with proven guidance to make smart, quick decisions with data-driven insights and analytics Produce measurable results that drive predictable and profitable growth throughout the customer lifecycle MethodologyStudy of 2,041 US Nationally Representative consumers, conducted between 01.04.22 and 04.04.22. *Study of 2,060 US consumers, conducted between 12.17.2021 and 12.21.2021 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/retro-is-back-three-in-five-us-consumers-regularly-buy-vintage-301638494.html SOURCE Emarsys NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stroock welcomed Andrew Owens to its New York office as a partner in its Financial Services Litigation, Regulation and Enforcement (FSLRE) group. "Andy represents some of the largest and best recognized investment and commercial banks, credit card companies and tech-forward financial services companies in the industry," said Julia Strickland, head of Stroock's FSLRE group. "With exceptional experience counseling companies at the leading edge of the payments industry, Andrew is a great fit with our current FLSRE team while also bringing a new dimension to our offering and expanding our capabilities. We are delighted to welcome him to the firm." Andrew's practice focuses on advising payment card issuers and retailers on issues arising from banking and consumer financial services regulation. He has a special focus on federal and state regulation of consumer credit, advising clients on matters concerning the Truth in Lending Act, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, E-SIGN, and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. Andrew regularly advises retailers on terms and conditions for loyalty programs and has experience with joint ventures, executive employment and severance, sales agency, governance, and corporate counseling. He represents issuers, processors, and other parties in negotiating cobrand, private-label, and agent bank card agreements, and advises financial institutions and retailers on billing and payment systems issues. "We are thrilled to welcome Andy to the firm," Co-managing Partner Alan Klinger said. "It's great to add another significant financial services attorney as we expand the range of services we offer our core institutional clients from this industry." "Stroock's outstanding, like-minded attorneys offer me unique opportunities, support and resources to continue to grow my practice and contribute to the growth of a great firm," Andrew said. Andrew earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School and his B.A. from Yale University. Andrew's practice most closely complements the work of Allen Denson, who joined Stroock in December 2021, and follows the more recent expansion of Stroock's Restructuring and Bankruptcy group, which included partners Richard Stern, Matthew O'Donnell, Alex Talesnick, and Stephan Hornung, senior counsel Michael Luskin, and associate Genna Grossman. About Stroock Stroock provides strategic transactional, regulatory, and litigation advice to advance the business objectives of leading financial institutions, multinational corporations, and entrepreneurial businesses in the U.S. and globally. With a rich history dating back 145+ years, the firm has offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Washington, D.C. For more, visit www.stroock.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stroock-expands-its-financial-services-litigation-regulatory-and-enforcement-group-with-andrew-owens-in-new-york-301639531.html SOURCE Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP Industry veteran brings 26 years of cards experience to role WILMINGTON, Del., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, today announced the appointment of Christopher Fred as Head of U.S. Credit Cards and Unsecured Lending (CCUL). Fred will lead strategic direction of TD's U.S. Bankcard, Retail Card Services and Card Partnerships business. He will report to Matt Boss, Head of Consumer Products. "It's a very exciting time for our cards business, and we're pleased to have Chris at the helm," Boss said. "He brings decades of experience executing strategies with speed and efficacy, developing strong and collaborative teams, and building meaningful relationships, all attributes vital to our work with the CCUL team and the broader bank." Fred joins TD after nearly a decade with Citi, where he managed the U.S. Proprietary Card portfolio, Cardmember benefits, rewards program and new product development. In his role at TD, Fred will drive strategy for the Bank's diverse CCUL portfolio, which includes TD's credit card suite, unsecured loan offerings and retailer partnerships. He will also oversee operations and infrastructure transformation work focused on enhancing customer experiences and enabling continued growth. Over the last several years, TD has expanded its U.S. Credit Cards & Unsecured Lending businesses through launches of new products and services, including the TD Double Up Credit Card and the TD Fit point of sale installment loan, and continued additions to TD's retail partnership portfolio and retail financing offerings. "The TD team stands out for its unrelenting focus on the customer," Fred said. "I'm looking forward to working with this seasoned group of leaders to continue developing and delivering innovative products that serve the changing needs of consumers and retailers." Fred's career includes time at Goldman Sachs, where he led partnership initiatives and project management for the Apple Card, and 15 years at American Express in a variety of roles including product management, loyalty, and acquisition. He earned a B.A. from the State University of New York at Albany with a major in Economics and a minor in Political Science. He is based in New York. About TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing over 9.8 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TDBank_US and www.twitter.com/TDNews_US. TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol "TD". To learn more, visit www.td.com/us. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/td-bank-names-christopher-fred-as-head-of-us-credit-cards-and-unsecured-lending-301638658.html SOURCE TD Bank The members of the Nomination Committee for the Concentric Annual General Meeting 2023 have been appointed. REDDITCH, England, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The AGM 2019 has resolved that Concentric's Nomination Committee shall have five members which consist of the Chairman of the Board and one representative of each of the four largest shareholders. The members of the Nomination Committee shall, in accordance with the resolution of the AGM 2019, be appointed based on the ownership structure as of 31st of August 2022. The members are: Maria Rengefors, Nordea Fonder, Chairman of the Nomination Committee Malin Bjorkmo, Handelsbanken Fonder Anette Dahlberg, Forsta AP-fonden Monica Asmyr, Swedbank Robur Fonder The Nomination Committee also includes the Chairman of the Board, Anders Nielsen Concentric's Annual General Meeting 2023 is planned to be held on 18th of April 2023 in Stockholm, Sweden. Shareholders who wish to submit proposals to the Nomination Committee, can do so by contacting the Nomination Committee's secretary, Victoria Skoglund attorney-at-law, at telephone +46 76 104 78 27 or e-mail [email protected]. For the committee to be able to consider the proposals received with sufficient care, proposals should be submitted as soon as possible and, in any event, no later than 31st of January 2023. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/concentric-ab/r/the-nomination-committee-for-concentric-s-annual-general-meeting-2023,c3640259 The following files are available for download: View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-nomination-committee-for-concentrics-annual-general-meeting-2023-301638661.html SOURCE Concentric AB SAN DIEGO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of San Diego (USD) is celebrating the grand opening of the Knauss Center for Business Education, one of the most innovative buildings in business higher education and home to the newly named Knauss School of Business. University of San Diego Board Chairman Don Knauss, the former CEO of Clorox, and his wife, Ellie, donated $50 million to fund construction of the new 120,000-square-foot facility and also to name the Knauss School of Business. Each space within the Knauss Center for Business Education is designed to create an ecosystem for innovation and collaboration that empowers students and inspires groundbreaking ideas that not only will serve the greater San Diego region, but will also inspire innovative Changemakers to confront humanity's most urgent challenges. Inside the Knauss Center for Business Education (video here): The Free Enterprise Institute makes entrepreneurship accessible by providing practical education and resources to students, startups and investors. The Catalyzer helps students turn bold ideas into booming startups and value-driven enterprises. The Student Success Center unifies advising, career development, mentoring and other student services under one roof. The Busch Family Production Studio, a state-of-the-art production studio for creating presentations, videos, podcasts and other tools to help students develop their personal brand. The Rivetti and Zocco Finance Lab enables students to experience real world projects, expanding their industry connections and network. The Knauss School of Business is also devoted to helping local, national and international businesses. More than $190 million has been invested in growing new businesses through the Knauss School of Business' San Diego Angel Conference. The Brink Small Business Development Center has provided free consulting services to help more than 1,400 local small businesses. The Ahlers Center for International Business has partnered with the San Diego Chamber of Commerce to produce the CaliBaja Regional Economy report. It has also partnered with the World Trade Center's MetroConnect program to create the global readiness and global market navigator programs to leverage students and faculty as consultants for small businesses pursuing export initiatives. The Supply Chain Management Institute has partnered with the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation and the Anchor Institution Collaborative to support regional anchor institutions and their goals to purchase from and contract with local small businesses. San Diego's Mayor also proclaimed October 1, 2022 as "Knauss School of Business Day." View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-university-of-san-diego-celebrates-the-grand-opening-of-one-of-the-most-innovative-buildings-in-business-higher-education-301638378.html SOURCE University of San Diego YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan met in Geneva with State Secretary of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Livia Leu, the ministry said. Ararat Mirzoyan introduced his counterpart on the current situation resulting from the latest large-scale aggression of Azerbaijan against Armenias sovereign territory, clearly emphasizing that the policy adopted by Azerbaijan aimed at achieving its maximalist aspirations with the use of force or threat of force was unacceptable. The sides discussed also a number of issues of the bilateral and multilateral agenda between Armenia and Switzerland. FM Mirzoyan said that the Armenian side is interested in the Swiss experience of return of assets of illicit origin. Ararat Mirzoyan and Livia Leu exchanged views also on regional developments. The Armenian FM thanked for hosting the meeting held yesterday with the Azerbaijani foreign minister in Geneva and briefed Livia Leu on the discussions held during that meeting. Ken Block and Drew Copeland of Sister Hazel slated to perform at fundraiser that benefits the band's non-profit foundation, Lyrics for Life. GAINESVILLE, Fla., Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TradePMR, a technology and custodial services provider for Registered Investment Advisors, will host its sixth annual Oktoberfest on Thursday, October 6, 2022, from 5:30 7:30 p.m. ET at TradePMR headquarters, 2511 NW 41st St in Gainesville, Fla. The event will feature craft beer selections from Gainesville's own Blackadder Brewing as well as dining options from local food trucks. Oktoberfest will also include a performance from Ken Block and Drew Copeland from Sister Hazel, with all proceeds benefiting the band's non-profit foundation, Lyrics for Life. We invite the Gainesville community to our offices and join us in supporting a worthy cause," Robb Baldwin, TradePMR "Oktoberfest is a special event for our community and team members, and we are thrilled once again to gather with our neighbors and friends to support such a worthy cause," said Robb Baldwin, Founder and CEO of TradePMR. "We are proud to support Ken, Drew and Lyrics for Life in their fight against pediatric cancer. We invite the entire Gainesville community to our offices to join us in supporting such a worthy cause." Lyrics for Life is a non-profit organization founded in 2002 by Sister Hazel to help fight children's cancer. Donations to the charity benefit research support programs as well as an annual three-day event at Camp Crystal Lake in North Central Florida for children and families managing a cancer diagnosis. Oktoberfest has a $10 suggested donation at the door; however, all donations are welcome and will go directly to Lyrics for Life. There will also be a raffle at this year's event for items donated by local businesses attendees can purchase one raffle ticket for $10 or three for $25 which will be available on-site at the event. There is parking available within walking distance of the event. Premium parking spots next to the event will be available on-site for a $50 donation. TradePMR will be matching donations dollar-for-dollar to benefit Lyrics for Life. For more information on this year's event or to make a donation online, visit https://oktoberfest.tradepmr.com. Ideas for charitable giving and community service as well as questions surrounding this year's event should be sent to [email protected] About TradePMR For more than two decades, TradePMR has worked with growth-minded independent registered investment advisors (RIAs), providing innovative technology tools and support designed to transform their businesses. The privately-held brokerage and custodian services provider (Member FINRA/SIPC), based in Gainesville, Fla., works to streamline fee-only investment advisors' operations through comprehensive custodial, operational, and trading support. For more information, visit www.TradePMR.com. Follow TradePMR on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn for the latest news, updates, and event information. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tradepmr-to-host-sixth-annual-oktoberfest-301639232.html SOURCE TradePMR The move enlarges the firm's footprint in Northeast Florida, welcomes over 400 agents to the United network and accelerates national growth DALLAS, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- United Real Estate (United) announced today that a Jacksonville-based brokerage has joined United's national network in a merger. The firm (formerly affiliated with a different national brokerage) will operate as United Real Estate Gallery moving forward and retain all leadership. "The entire United team has worked diligently for over a decade to build a program that now attracts top operators." The partnership brings together the seventh largest national real estate brokerage operation in the U.S. and a prominent brokerage celebrating fifteen years in business. United Real Estate Gallery is currently a top 10 market share leader with 400 agents and eight locations throughout Northeast Florida. Through this new alliance, United Real Estate Gallery agents have access to a suite of innovative marketing tools, 100% agent compensation, virtual client services and a proprietary, cloud-based productivity platform Bullseye at no additional cost to them or their clients. Agents also receive a financial gain in compensation and opportunities to grow their income with other financial incentives with the merger. "We wanted to grow faster and provide resources for our agents to compete in any market. After an extensive period of due diligence considering many paths forward, we determined United is THE forward-thinking partner who will help us achieve our goals. They are high-energy, quick-moving and sharp. They recognize our team's talent, have the resources required to make the investments in our business to drive agent outcomes and are eager to help," stated United Real Estate Gallery Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Rivera. "Our industry is changing, and United has the solution to allow agents to keep more earnings, gain more control over their expenses and compete more effectively in any market." United's fifth merger of 2022 is a catalyst for its expansion throughout Florida and the U.S. The global network now includes more than 21,000 agents and 630 offices. United Real Estate Group is a six-time Inc. 5000 company, among the top 0.01% of America's private companies. It is nationally recognized for its influential leaders, growth and technology innovation. In the new release of its proprietary cloud-based Agent Productivity Platform - Bullseye this year, United gained the ability to deploy its entire suite of agent tools, technology, resources and training to companies merging or affiliating with its national network instantly. "The entire United team has worked diligently for over a decade to build a program that now attracts top operators like Ray, Sonny, Nanci and their team of professional agents as they look to build on their past successes and capture future opportunities. Being selected as their 'go forward' partner is humbling, especially after we discovered how many options they considered when evaluating potential partners and paths," stated United Real Estate Group Chief Executive Officer, Dan Duffy. "We are super excited and energized about our collective opportunity and are really enjoying working with the Gallery Team." "Ray, Sonny and Nanci have built a great company, and we are so pleased to be chosen to help their firm reach new heights. The additional brokerage, agent and consumer-facing services, to which they now have access, amplify their value proposition tremendously and create a net financial gain for their 400 agents," stated United Real Estate President, Rick Haase. "Best of all, this leadership team will continue to drive all local decisions and influence our company at a national level. We will learn as much from them as they will from us, and that's essential to our strategy for smart growth." The alliance complements United's existing offices in Jacksonville, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers and Orlando, and follows mergers with Pearson Smith Realty, Platinum Realty, Leading Edge Real Estate Group, Texas United Realty, Virtual Properties Realty, Benchmark Realty, Charles Rutenberg Realty Fort Lauderdale and others yet to be announced. To learn more about United Real Estate, brokerage succession planning, brokerage valuation and sale or franchising opportunities, visit GrowWithUnited.com or call 888-960-0606. Agents interested in learning about career opportunities with United Real Estate can visit JoinUnitedRealEstate.com or call 888-960-0606. Agents interested in Joining United Real Estate Gallery can visit JoinUnitedGallery.com or email [email protected]. About United Real Estate United Real Estate (United) a division of United Real Estate Group was founded with the purpose of offering solutions to real estate brokers and agents in the rapidly changing real estate brokerage industry. United provides the latest training, marketing and technology tools to agents and brokers under a flat-fee, transaction-based agent commission model. By leveraging the company's proprietary cloud-based Bullseye Agent & Broker Productivity Platform, United delivers a more profitable outcome for agents and brokers. United Real Estate operates in 32 states with 140 offices and more than 17,500 agents. The company produced over $21.5 billion in sales volume in 2021. About United Real Estate | Gallery United Real Estate Gallery was founded in 2007 by Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Rivera; President, Sonny Downey; and Vice President of Operations, Nanci Soriano. The firm is a full-service brokerage serving Jacksonville and Northeast Florida with 400 agents and eight locations. United Real Estate Gallery provides professional representation for buyers and sellers of residential properties with the goal of achieving excellence in client service and sales results. About United Real Estate Group United Real Estate Group (UREG) operates United Real Estate and United Country Real Estate, addressing the unique market needs of suburban, major metropolitan urban and rural markets. Utilizing the cloud-based Bullseye Agent & Broker Productivity Platform, UREG offers the latest training, marketing and technology tools producing a significant competitive advantage. The platform realizes a decade-long investment in virtual agent and brokerage technology services and is powered by a 2.1 million listings data warehouse generating over 3 million monthly visitors and 30,000 leads per year. Together, the United Real Estate Group supports more than 630 offices and over 21,000 real estate and auction professionals across four continents. United Real Estate Group produced over $27.1 billion in 2021. Through its in-house advertising agency, UREG offers differentiating marketing support and collateral for specialized lifestyle property websites as well as access to a 650,000+ opt-in buyer database. For more information about United Real Estate or United Country Real Estate, please visit UnitedRealEstate.com or UnitedCountry.com. For More Information: April Gonzalez, Media & Investor Relations [email protected]214-277-9830 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/united-real-estate-forges-new-florida-alliance-in-national-expansion-301639069.html SOURCE United Real Estate CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa The commander of Kadena Air Bases 18th Wing offered condolences Monday to the family, friends and co-workers of an airman swept out to sea last week while snorkeling off northeastern Okinawa. The body of Airman 1st Class Keija Xavier Hilt, 20, of the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron, was recovered Wednesday about a half-mile offshore, between Adan and Sosu beaches, and was identified the next day, the 18th Wing said in a statement naming Hilt on Monday. The exact cause of death is unknown, and the incident remains under investigation, the statement said. We share in the sorrow felt by his loved ones, Brig. Gen. David Eaglin said in the statement. Eaglin also thanked the Japan Coast Guard and Kunigami Fire Department for immediately responding to the incident, and members of the 31st and 33rd Rescue Squadrons and the 353rd Special Operations Wing for participating in the search. Hilt was one of six Americans snorkeling on Sept. 24 around an offshore reef near the mouth of the Ie River in Sosu, 18th Wing spokesman Staff Sgt. Kyle Johnson told Stars and Stripes on Sept. 26. Three, including Hilt, were pulled away from the group by the current before the waves separated them. The Japan Coast Guard dispatched a helicopter from their base in Naha after receiving a distress call at 3:30 p.m., a coast guard spokesman said Sept. 25. A pair of Japanese swimmers went after the three airmen using surfboards and floats, the spokesman said. They rescued a 19-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man, both assigned to Kadena. A search for Hilt began after the two Americans and two Japanese were pulled from the sea by the coast guard helicopter at 4:50 p.m., the spokesman said. The four who were rescued suffered no major injuries, the spokesman said. Its customary in Japan for some government officials to speak to the media on condition of anonymity. After a five-day search, Hilts body was discovered Wednesday near where he disappeared by members of the U.S. Air Force, a Kunigami fire spokesman said Thursday. (Tribune News Service) Many Western Massachusetts residents heard loud sounds coming from Westover Air Reserve Base early Monday. But it isnt cause for concern, a spokesperson for Westover Air Reserve Base said. F-15Es from Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho were visiting the base for a few days, prior to traveling to a training location. Patriot Wing aircraft maintenance, airfield management and Security Forces members are providing critical services during the visit, a Facebook post by the base states. This in turn demonstrates yet another way Citizen Airmen support full spectrum operations in any environment. However, due to the time zone and scheduled arrival time, the F-15Es were required to leave early Monday morning, startling some residents. But Westover Air Reserve Base told MassLive the event was scheduled that way. Westover Air Reserve Base said the F-15E Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter designed to perform air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. An array of avionics and electronics systems gives the F-15E the capability to fight at low altitude, day or night and in all weather. The aircraft uses two crew members, a pilot and a weapon systems officer. Previous models of the F-15 are assigned air-to-air roles; the E model is a dual-role fighter. It has the capability to fight its way to a target over long ranges, destroy enemy ground positions and fight its way out. 2022 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit masslive.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. (Tribune News Service) From thousands of feet in the air, it's easy to see the extent of Hurricane Ian's destruction on Florida's Gulf Coast. It's an eerie feeling. The region resembled a ghost town. Not a resident was visible on the streets. Only police, fire rescue and ambulances navigated the area as they searched for survivors. Debris from houses, condos, businesses and resorts was piled up. Palm trees were scattered on beaches. Boats and even homes were capsized in bodies of water. All were similar sights in Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva. Inside a Coast Guard HC-144 Ocean Sentry, Air Station Miami personnel peered out the windows, each positioned to watch for any danger from other aircraft in the area. Headphones canceled out the engine noise and tuned into the pilots' banter and damage commentary. Coast Guard units from all over Florida and the Southeast are participating in search-and-rescue missions along Hurricane Ian's destructive path. When conducting a search and rescue mission, service members are dedicated to locating anyone in the area being surveyed, said Lt. Cmdr. Brandon DeCardenas, who piloted the Sunday afternoon flight that included a Miami Herald reporter. "Our job, during Ian, has been to spot those people, locate those people and then get ... a helicopter on scene to hoist those people out," he said. Almost 650 people have been rescued by Coast Guard units, according to data provided by Air Station Miami. There have been more than 150 flight missions, which have rescued 261 people and 75 pets. The Coast Guard's flood water rescue teams have located an additional 380 people and 19 pets and also transported seven loads of supplies and 60 first responders to areas in need. On the first flight DeCardenas piloted, which took place right after Ian, the crew stayed aloft over the scene for seven hours. Most subsequent flights have been three to five hours. And there are challenges. Visibility was poor in the days following Ian, DeCardenas said. "Conditions fluctuate for every single case, which is something big that we have to deal with..." DeCardenas said. "(We need) to make sure we're taking off to meet all of our restrictions and regulations but also to take off safely and come back safely." Through the storm, dozens of service members responded to the latest forecast updates at a makeshift command center at Opa-locka airport, where their aircraft are based. Normally, the command center is at the Coast Guard Seventh District headquarters downtown. Now, they've shifted their efforts on responding to rescue missions, still working from the airport office on Sunday. Service members received additional training to be equipped to respond. A classroom of pilots on Monday before Ian's arrival participated in urban search and rescue training. They went through scenarios that were likely to arise in Ian's aftermath. These training sessions weren't taking place just because of Ian. The Coast Guard prepares service members throughout the year to ensure they can adequately fly and respond to a storm, Lt. Cmdr. Karl Alejandre said then. "We (are ready to) respond however we are requested," Alejandre said. "It could be that there's flooding in an area, and we're providing an overflight assessment. It could be taking search-and-rescue support people and equipment." 2022 Miami Herald. Visit at miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. TOKYO Air Force maintainers recently visited a hospital near Misawa Air Base in northeastern Japan to thank doctors for saving the life of an airman involved in a major vehicle accident over the summer. The airman, assigned to the 35th Maintenance Group, was a passenger in a vehicle that lost control and hydroplaned into a roadside pole on July 28, according to a Sept. 21 base news release. The injured passenger received the full force of the collision, which crumpled his side of the vehicle, base spokesman Tech Sgt. Timothy Moore told Stars and Stripes in an email Wednesday. He did not respond to questions about the condition of the driver, also a member of the maintenance group. Alcohol was not a factor in the accident, Moore wrote, adding that he could not identify the injured airman due to privacy concerns. The Airman came in with serious injuries and in critical condition, Dr. Tatsuya Nodagahira, emergency room chief at Hachinohe City Hospital, about 20 miles south of the base, said in the base news release. Moore in his email would not provide details on the extent of those injuries, but said the Japanese trauma team succeeded in stabilizing him. The maintenance squadrons leaders visited the hospital on Sept. 16 on behalf of the base commander, Col. Michael Richard, bringing the Japanese doctors a letter of appreciation and small gifts, including squadron coins and American snacks, according to the base release. We cant do our mission here without the continued support of the local population, the squadrons commander, Maj. Stephen Rose, said in the release. We are grateful for their immediate actions and the lifesaving care they provided. The airman is now recovering stateside with family but is expected to return to Misawa to complete his tour, Rose said in a statement emailed to Stars and Stripes on Wednesday. When he returns, our focus will be on continuing to provide support in his recovery journey and his return to duty, he wrote. The wellbeing of the Airman is our priority. Nodagahira said his medical team was grateful to be of service. We were able to give him the proper care he needed, and were all happy he made it out OK, he said in Misawas release. At least 16 service members from World War II and the Korean War were accounted for last month by the Defense Department agency tasked with recovering U.S. troops listed as missing in action or prisoners of war. Fourteen of the identifications made in September by the Hawaii-based Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency were killed during WWII. The others fought in Korea, according to DPAA news releases. Three were U.S. Army Air Forces members killed aboard a B-17G Flying Fortress shot down during a huge bombing mission near Leipzig, Germany, May 29, 1944, the agency said. Accounted for on Sept. 9 were the pilot, 1st Lt. Carl Nesbitt, 23; the bombardier, 1st Lt. Melvin Meyer, 25; and the navigator, 2nd Lt. Wayne Dyer, 22. Six of the 10 crew members were able to escape the plane before it crashed near Horst, while the rest, including Nesbitt, Meyer and Dyer, were killed, DPAA said. Another of Septembers WWII identifications died a prisoner of war in the Philippines after enduring the Bataan Death March in April 1942, the agency said. U.S. Army Pvt. James Tash, 20, was captured when Japanese forces invaded the Philippines in late 1941 and died at the Cabanatuan POW camp on July 19, 1942, according to DPAA. He was accounted for on Sept. 27. Two died as prisoners of war in Korea, agency news releases said. Army Pfc. Ithiel Whatley, 19, was reported missing in action on July 12, 1950, after a fighting withdrawal south of Chochiwon, South Korea. Army Cpl. Cark Worline, 20, was reported missing in action on Nov. 26, 1950, after battling Chinese volunteer forces near Sinjang, North Korea. Whatley was accounted for on Sept. 7 and Worline on Sept. 9, DPAA said. Information about DPAAs other identifications can be found here. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Recently, leaders from the Republic of Armenia Ministry of Defense visited several educational institutions in the United States in the framework of the NATO Defense Educators Enhancement Program (DEEP), the U.S. Embassy Yerevan said in a statement on social media. While in the United States, the Armenian delegates met with their counterparts at the United States Military Academy at West Point, The U.S. Army War College, The National Defense University, and with personnel and training specialists at the Headquarters, Department of the Army. They exchanged ideas on admissions, integration, academics, and military training as a whole. The United States stands ready to partner with Armenia in developing leaders of character for the defense of our nations, the Embassy said. KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany Skyrocketing utility prices in Germany are driving more U.S. military families to seek on-base housing, where they dont have to worry about paying heating bills this winter. The wait list for on-base housing in the Kaiserslautern Military Community has climbed 57% over this time last year, from 94 service members to 148, Ronald Jung, a spokesman for the 86th Airlift Wing at Ramstein Air Base, said in a statement. The reasons why people want to move arent tracked, Jung said Thursday. But the rising demand is coming largely from off-base families who want to move on base, Jung added, and military family members who spoke with Stars and Stripes cited energy prices as the reason. The longest waitlist is one to two years for junior enlisted service members seeking homes at Landstuhl. The same waitlist is one to three months at Vogelweh and Ramstein, Jung said. At this time last year, there was virtually no waitlist for these homes, he said. Families may apply to live at a particular installation, which may have made on-base housing more desirable, Jung said. Army installations have not noticed an increase in requests to move on post specifically due to energy costs, said Mark Heeter, a spokesman for Installation Management Command-Europe. However, the price of gas alone has gone up more than 200% on average for couples and families in Germany since a year ago, according to price comparison portal Check24. Some service members in the Kaiserslautern area, home to about 50,000 U.S. personnel and their families, say their prices have gone up more than that. Brandy Sheldon said shes been pulling money out of savings the last few months to cover rising utility prices on top of higher grocery and fuel bills. That coincides with a cost-of-living allowance for U.S. troops in this part of Germany that has been slowly falling for months. Sheldons husband is an Army chief warrant officer 3. The family is moving on base from Hochspeyer to curb their expenses and for their kids, who she said had no one to play with in the village. They accepted a townhome on the Vogelweh installation last week, Sheldon said. Once we saw the utilities increasing drastically over the winter months, combined with other costs, we decided on-base was the best choice for us, she said. Some military families have ideas of finding a historic half-timbered house for their tour in this heavily forested part of the country, while others like modern German homes. But those dreams can lose out to practicality. When Sophie Pappas and her family went to see a four-bedroom house offered to them at Vogelweh this week, a housing official said youre coming at a great time. Everybody is coming in this week to try and get on the waitlist, Pappas said Friday. Pappas and her husband, an Army second lieutenant, accepted the house Friday, despite having fallen in love with a quintessential German house in Weilerbach, a village popular with Americans about 10 minutes from Ramstein Air Base. The family arrived in September from Hawaii and began house hunting after they were told the on-base wait could last anywhere from two to 36 months. The Vogelweh house became available the day they were to sign their Weilerbach lease. The Pappases did the math: Estimated utility expenses in Weilerbach, about $1,200 a month; the familys monthly utility stipend, $860. A family adding their names to the waitlist at the housing office told Pappas their utility expenses had risen 300% since January, she said. It just seemed like a risk we didnt want to take, Pappas said. Base residents dont pay rent, water or heating bills. They do pay for internet, television and phone services. Defense Department personnel receive varying levels of housing and utility allowances off base, but many are worried that those stipends wont be enough. One airman who lives in Otterberg told Stars and Stripes last week that his gas bill alone has climbed from 110 euros a month to 799 euros a month in the past year. His total utilities allowance is 820 euros a month. With a newborn at home, turning off the heat isnt an option, he said. Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine has affected energy flows and caused prices to rise steeply across Europe. Moscow reduced gas supplies to the Continent via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, which connects Russia to Germany, before suspending them altogether in August. The Kremlin blamed Western sanctions for causing technical difficulties. Base housing at Kaiserslautern-area installations is limited to active-duty members and their families. Most of the Americans assigned here live in outlying villages or in the city. Off-base housing offers Americans a new experience. They can walk to shops and interact with German neighbors. The views were beautiful off base, one person who now lives on base wrote on a local Facebook page earlier this month. But I like not having to worry about our heating bill in the winter. Stars and Stripes reporter Phillip Walter Wellman contributed to this report. An Iranian American jailed in Iran for nearly seven years on widely discredited espionage charges was temporarily released Saturday while Iran also lifted a travel ban on his ailing father, who had been imprisoned after traveling to the country to plead for his son's release. Siamak Namazi, 51, and Baquer Namazi, 85, are among a growing list of U.S. and European nationals who have been held by Iran as political pawns, according to western officials. Tehran claimed Saturday that following the Namazis' release Washington would unfreeze $7 billion in Iranian assets held in South Korea due to U.S. sanctions. "With the finalization of negotiations between Iran and the United States to release the prisoners of both countries, $7 billion of Iran's blocked resources will be released," State News Agency IRNA said Sunday. A U.S. State Department spokesperson denied that any assets would be transferred as part of a deal. The spokesperson, unnamed per State Department protocol, told The Washington Post that Washington was still working to secure the full release of Siamak Namazi, as well as several other U.S. nationals jailed in Iran. "We remain committed and determined to securing the freedom of all Americans unjustly detained in Iran and elsewhere," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement Saturday. Price also thanked "U.S. allies and partners who have worked tirelessly to help the Namazis, including the U.N. Secretary General, Switzerland, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and the United Kingdom." Iranian media reported Saturday that an unnamed "regional country" helped to facilitate the deal. An informed source, who was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, told The Post that Iraq had a key role in mediating between Iran and U.S. and British counterparts. Washington and Tehran cut off diplomatic relations shortly after the 1979 revolution that brought Iran's ruling clerics to power. But the two countries have most recently been engaged in now stalled indirect talks to revive the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal that Washington left in 2018. Iran has billions of assets frozen in banks around the world due to western sanctions. A return to the deal would include U.S. sanctions relief needed to revive Iran's collapsed economy. Reports by state-affiliated media in Iran emphasized that the release of the Namazis has coincided with the lack of progress around the nuclear deal. The younger Namazi, a businessman, was arrested in 2015 while visiting Iran and has been held in the notorious Evin prison. An Iranian court convicted him in 2016 of espionage charges, which he denied. Namazi's furlough is for one week, during which he will stay with his family, Jared Genser, the family lawyer, told Reuters. It remains unclear if the furlough will be extended. The elder Namazi, a former U.N. official, traveled to Iran in 2016 to plead for his son's release. He was subsequently detained and convicted of "collaboration with a hostile government." Authorities furloughed him from prison in 2018 due to health conditions and closed his case in 2020, though he remained under a travel ban. "The Secretary-General is grateful that, following his appeals to the president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, our former colleague Baquer Namazi has been permitted to leave Iran for medical treatment abroad," a spokesperson for U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Saturday in a statement. "This is a critical first step but of course we will not rest until the entire family is able to return to the United States and their long nightmare is finally over," Genser, the family lawyer, told Reuters. Former political prisoners have described being subject to abuse, torture and forced confessions of such offenses as spying , while in prison. Iran has falsely blamed "foreign enemies" for fomenting more than two weeks of nationwide anti-government protests sparked last month by the death of a young woman, Mahsa Amini, while in police custody. Authorities said Friday that they arrested nine European nationals for their role in the protests in a move likely to increase tensions with the west. U.S., European and U.N. officials have condemned Iran's crackdown on demonstrators, which has included using live fire and cutting off internet access. At least 52 protesters have been killed, and hundreds more injured and arrested, according to London-based Amnesty International. The demonstrations, which have pulled people from a cross-section of ethnic, geographic and class groups, are the biggest surge of unrest since a wave of protests in 2019 triggered by economic grievances. In a separate case, Venezuela, another U.S. adversary, said Saturday that it had freed seven Americans held for nearly five years. The detainees, who included five oil company executives, were exchanged for two nephews of President Nicolas Maduro's wife jailed in the United States for drug smuggling. The Washington Post's John Hudson contributed reporting from Washington; Mustafa Salim contributed reporting from Baghdad. IONA, Fla. Florida residents are grappling with widespread destruction and flooding after Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful storms to ever hit the United States, amid ongoing search efforts and a death toll that has risen to at least 62. Across the most affected parts of the state, local and federal rescue crews continued to scour neighborhoods for survivors. "We are not in a recovery phrase," said Chase Fabrizio, leader of Maryland Task Force 1, a search-and-rescue crew of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. "We are still in the search." Across the southwest and central regions of the state, about 800,000 homes and businesses remained without power on Sunday afternoon, according to PowerOutage.us. In North Carolina, more than 16,000 customers are still without power. Meanwhile, several bridges were destroyed, complicating rescue efforts. The causeway to Sanibel, a 12-mile barrier island, was rendered impassable, cutting off the island from the mainland. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden are planning to travel to Puerto Rico on Monday and to Florida on Wednesday to see hurricane damage, the White House announced late Saturday. Their visit comes as the president warned that Ian could be Florida's deadliest hurricane. The confirmed death toll is expected to rise as autopsies are completed and recovery efforts continue. Florida's Medical Examiners Commission on Sunday night said the hurricane had caused at least 58 deaths in the state, most of them from drowning. Their tally does not include Charlotte County, where local officials have also confirmed multiple deaths. Many of the victims were older than 60, according to the state's medical examiners. Bodies were found inside flooded cars, floating in water and on the beach. There were four storm-related deaths in North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper (D) said. Florida's Medical Examiners Commission on Sunday night said the hurricane had caused at least 58 deaths in the state, most of them from drowning. Many of the victims were older than 60. Bodies were found inside flooded cars, floating in water and on the beach. There were four storm-related deaths in North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper (D) said. Officials said 42 of the victims in Florida were found in Lee County, which includes Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Cape Coral. The county does not have running water, and nearly 70 percent of it is without power. Across the affected region, residents turned to cleanup work on Sunday. Many had waited days to return home amid floods and washed-out roads. In Iona, a small coastal community between Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach, towering piles of soggy couches, mattresses and kitchen cabinets were strewn across front lawns. In one predominantly Latino neighborhood, some residents were drying their clothes in the sun. Volunteers drove around passing out cases of water. "Everyone will stay here, but we will clean up and put our stuff outside," said Luis Hernandez, 33. "But we have no water, no clothes." As he helped his parents clean out their house, Rafael Martinez, 15, said the water rose so fast that "everything got destroyed." He and his family climbed atop a table and chairs to stay above the water, he said, adding that he is thankful that his family - and he thinks all of his neighbors - survived. Many storefronts were damaged by floodwaters. John Henson, who owns a two-story commercial office in the area, returned to his business to find that someone had broken in during the storm. "If someone needed shelter or food, I would give them both of these," Henson said. "But they stole stuff and tried to move stuff from one room to another . . . and broke and kicked doors down for no reason." Henson predicted that this part of Fort Myers "isn't ever going to be what it once was." "You don't even understand how bad it is until you start driving the side roads," said Henson, who lived nearby on Shell Point. "It's just brutal out there." In Punta Gorda, 25 miles north of Fort Myers, Johnny Riggs and his family were waiting inside a shelter Saturday night for the power to return to their home in nearby Port Charlotte. Riggs, 73, said he evacuated with his daughter and granddaughter just before Ian made landfall, going to a shelter near their apartment. When the rain ended, they returned home. Their building had little damage, but the lack of power in the region made it hard to stay. Food inside the refrigerator was spoiling and there were few restaurants and stores open in the area. Worse, the building no longer had running water, he said. After three days, the family left the apartment Saturday morning and checked into a shelter at a high school gymnasium that is part of the Babcock Ranch planned community. "We'd been using bottled water to flush the commode but now that's all gone," Riggs said, finishing up a free spaghetti dinner while his daughter, Courtney Riggs-Johnston, and granddaughter Trevlyn, 14, rummaged through boxes of donated clothing. With long lines of cars outside the few gas stations that had fuel and several roads still closed because of flooding, "I feel like we're going backwards," Riggs said. Even as they promised aid, officials on Sunday acknowledged the long road to recovery. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) told ABC News's "This Week" that Sanibel, the barrier island near Fort Myers, will be uninhabitable for the foreseeable future. "I think our priority now is to identify the people that remain on Sanibel who wanted to stay there, but eventually have to come off because there's just no way to continue with life there," Rubio said, adding that it will take "a couple of years at least" to rebuild the bridge that connected Sanibel to the mainland. Rubio said the total damage was more devastating than anything he could recall in Florida history. "Fort Myers Beach no longer exists. It'll have to be rebuilt," he said. "It was a slice of old Florida that you can't recapture." Speaking on the same program, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell said emergency workers are "still actively in the search-and-rescue phase" and going "through every home to make sure that we don't leave anybody behind." Several guests on the Sunday morning shows were asked about the need for stricter building codes. "After this, we're going to learn that we're going to have to improve our . . . building codes," Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) said on CBS's "Face the Nation." Criswell echoed the sentiment on the same show, emphasizing that Florida needed to ensure that "as we rebuild, we rebuild more resilient." But local officials pushed back, arguing that the current regulations are sufficient. "We have good building codes," Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson said on "Face the Nation." "The newer homes, they withstood the storm," he said, as evidence that the building codes for newer construction were adequate. "The older houses, which were built lower and not up to current codes, they suffered more damage." On Sunday, officials also faced a fresh round of questions about how long officials in Lee County waited to make evacuation decisions amid uncertain forecasts in the days before the storm. Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno defended the government's response. "We did exactly what we had to do," Marceno said during a news conference. He said there was no delay in issuing evacuations. "The second that we could and should issue that order, we did," he said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) also defended Lee County, telling CNN on Sunday that they were dealing with a storm that shifted course unexpectedly and issued evacuation orders as soon as it was justified. Asked whether the state would investigate the evacuation orders issued, DeSantis said, "They informed people and most people did not want to do it." "That's just the reality," he added. "You're in a situation - are you going to grab somebody out of their home that doesn't want to? I don't think that's the appropriate use of government." Flooding is expected to continue across portions of central Florida, causing more destruction and posing a further challenge to cleanup efforts and rescues. Already the storm is estimated to have caused more than $60 billion in property loss in Florida. Craig reported from Iona, Olivo reported from Sarasota and Whalen reported from Washington. The Washington Post's Karoun Demirjian, Meryl Kornfield and Amy B Wang in Washington and Matthew Brown in Atlanta contributed to this report. TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (Tribune News Service) Eighty Michigan veterans will take off from Cherry Capital Airport on Wednesday, bound for Washington, D.C. The trip will constitute the 14th mission of the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight, a nearly annual event designed to provide aging veterans of foreign wars the opportunity to visit the national monuments dedicated to them. For many, it will be their first chance to see these monuments, said Bob Green, the event's organizer. When the group touches down in Washington, D.C., at around 9 a.m., its first stop will be to the World War II Memorial. From there, the veterans and their guardians will see the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Wall, the Marine Corps Memorial, and the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. A new stop this year will be the Military Women's Memorial, which also is located at Arlington. The final stop will be to the Air Force Memorial. They're expected to arrive back at Cherry Capital Airport around 8:30 p.m., when they will likely be greeted by a crowd of community members waving banners and flags to welcome them home, Green said. "They're treated like rock stars," he said. Four World War II veterans, 52 Korean War veterans and 24 Vietnam veterans will be on this year's flight. Among them will be Bill Morse, a 100-year-old World War II veteran, and his brother, Jim Morse, a Korean War veteran. The co-founder of the national Honor Flight Network, Earl Morse, who is unrelated to the two Northern Michigan veterans, also will join the group on its flight from Traverse City. Earl began the Honor Flight in Springfield, Ohio, in 2005. At the time, he was a physician who treated many World War II veterans. He organized the event after discovering that many of them didn't have the resources to see the newly erected World War II Memorial on their own, Green said. Green said during the last two years of the COVID-19 epidemic, when the trips had to be rescheduled, 25 of the area's Korean War veterans died before having the opportunity to go on an honor flight. That led the flight's organizers this year to place special emphasis on accommodating as many World War II and Korean War service members as possible. The flight this year will make use of a larger model of airbus, capable of seating 190 passengers, and a total of 15 more veterans. The prior model, an A300, accommodated a maximum of 160 passengers. One of the Korean War veterans who will be attending this year's flight is Wally Juall, who served in the Army for 12 months beginning in 1958 as a cannoneer. "I had no idea what a cannon was, but the Army's famous for on-the-job training," he said. Two years ago, Juall was scheduled to take part in an Honor Flight that had to be canceled due to the pandemic. He has been to D.C. one other time, while working as a high school counselor, but he said this trip will be special because it will be the first time he will get to see the Korean War Memorial. Juall said, more than anything, he wants to honor all of the U.S. service members who fought in previous wars. He choked up when he spoke about what it will be like to spend the day with his fellow brothers- and sisters-in-arms. While he didn't see active combat when he was stationed in Korea, he said he has spoken to many people who did, and came back with stories of harrowing experiences. "My heart goes out to all the people who served, because a lot of them went through hell a lot of them," he said. Report for America corps member and data journalist William T. Perkins' reporting is made possible by a partnership between the Record-Eagle and Report for America, a journalism service project founded by the nonprofit Ground Truth Project. (c)2022 The Record-Eagle (Traverse City, Mich.) Visit at record-eagle.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan has confirmed that it is holding 17 Armenian prisoners of war who were taken captive as a result of the September 13th aggression against Armenia, Deputy head of the Office of Armenias Representative on International Legal Affairs, Diana Karazyan told reporters, adding that the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) urged Azerbaijan to provide details about the captives, but it, as always, has provided general information. At the moment the activities of the Office are directed to applying an urgent measure concerning the POWs. However, Azerbaijan is not always presenting the information required by ECHR. Azerbaijan has confirmed that it holds 17 POWs and provided very general information about them, she said. She said that the ECHR urged Azerbaijan to provide details about the captives, particular about their treatment and other issues, but as always, Azerbaijan provided general information. Diana Karazyan said that this behavior of Azerbaijan is not something new. She also stated that there are still around 30 captives, including civilian captives, held in Azerbaijan, who were taken captive as a result of the 2020 war. Commenting on the videos being spread by the Azerbaijani side, Communication and Prevention Program Manager at the Delegation of the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) to Armenia, Zara Amatuni said that ICRC, being as a neutral humanitarian organization, is not authorized to make a statement at a public platform about the incidents and videos, but added that these issues are under their constant spotlight. We visit the persons who were taken captive as a result of the 44-Day War and the military operations of 2022 once a month and are trying to keep that frequency. During the visits we hand over videos, letters from the relatives to the captives, provide an opportunity for a phone call and vice versa, she said. Arisitot Tambidila (25) maintained he lost his power after he drank a glass of water given to him by gardai A business student who smeared blood around a cell and started kicking off claimed he had been poisoned by gardai, a court heard. Arisitot Tambidila (25) maintained he lost his power after he drank a glass of water given to him by gardai. A garda witness said Tambidila was doing bunny hops, dancing up and down and repeatedly saying oh yeah in his cell. Judge David McHugh found Tambidila guilty of public order offences and jailed him for four months. The judge also imposed a separate four-month sentence, suspended for two years. The defendant, of Mac Uilliam Parade in Tallaght and Church Street in Portlaoise, was found guilty of threatening and abusive behaviour, resisting arrest and criminal damage. Garda Kieran Murray told Blanchardstown District Court he was called to the Red Cow Luas stop on March 31, 2021 following reports of an aggressive male. Gda Murray said Tambidila told him f*ck yous, f*ck yous, this is my country, not yours. He was asked to leave the area but refused to do so. Gda Murray went to arrest the defendant, who resisted arrest, struggling and flailing his arms around. The pair fell to the ground, with Tambidila shouting youre not going to f*ckin arrest me. Gda Murray said Tambidila was handcuffed and taken to Ballyfermot garda station. In the station, Tambidila was extremely aggressive, and tried to hit gardai. He was taken to a cell, where he smeared blood all over the walls and door. Garda Stephen Broderick said Tambidila ripped up a charge sheet, saying rip it or burn it, I dont give a f*ck. He also said I will crush you, f*ck you motherf*cker. Gda Broderick said Tambidila was laughing uncontrollably in his cell, dancing, and pretending to smoke. In his evidence, Tambidila claimed he suffered a serious nosebleed after gardai gave him a glass of water. He claimed he lost his power and started kicking off after drinking the poisoned water. He also said he was having a bad day and he just wanted to get the bus home. Judge McHugh said it was one of the most serious public order incidents he had seen in 14 years on the bench. Debbie Barry told the investigating garda to go away and catch the real criminals when she was instructed to stop intimidating the girl Debbie Barry told gardai to go away and catch real criminals A woman found shouting abuse at a teenage girl and squaring up to her in the city centre was arrested for public order offences. Debbie Barry (45) told the investigating garda to go away and catch the real criminals when she was instructed to stop intimidating the girl. Judge Bryan Smyth fined her 200 at Dublin District Court. Barry, with an address at a homeless unit, was found guilty of threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour and not following garda directions. She had denied the charges. Gardai on patrol on OConnell Street at 9.20pm on December 29 last saw Barry being abusive towards a teenage girl outside a shop. She was shouting, squaring up to the girl and waving a finger in an aggressive manner at her. The teen was intimidated and looking to remove herself from the scene, a garda said. When told to leave, Barry refused and told the garda to catch the real criminals. The accused said she was coming from a soup run at the GPO and did not recall the conversation with the garda but said he put her against a shop door and handcuffed her. There were words said by a group of people but she did not threaten anyone and only she was arrested, she said. Her solicitor argued there was only a perceived threat in the evidence and the accuseds alleged behaviour did not amount to an offence. The judge dismissed other separate similar charges. Barry suffered stress and trauma in her life, her lawyer said. The State failed us as children, they are still failing us as adults Survivors of the Thalidomide scandal in Ireland are calling for a State apology more than 60 years after the drug was belatedly removed from the Irish market due to birth deformities. Survivors will tell their story in a Scannal documentary this Tuesday on RTE One, in which they will call for increased compensation and an official apology and acknowledgement of wrongdoing from the State. Thalidomide, sold as a morning sickness drug, was withdrawn from the international market in November 1961 due to the number of babies being born with catastrophic disabilities to mothers who took the drug. However, it would be a further seven months before the Irish authorities acted, with the drug still available over the counter a year later. A government briefing document shows authorities considered making a public announcement in 1961 but regarded this as an undesirable course of action, and as a result, thalidomide products were still in circulation in Ireland for over a year after it was officially withdrawn elsewhere. Irish victims are calling for a fair level of compensation and an acknowledgement of wrongdoing from the State, alongside an official apology. Irish victims were offered compensation by the State in 2009, around 62,000, but most refused the derisory offer as they deemed it insufficient to cover the expenses of adapting to life with their disabilities, and took the Irish State to court. The State failed first in licensing the drug in Ireland and then in removing it from the market in a timely manner, the Irish Thalidomide Association said. John Stack, the youngest of the victims in Ireland, said his mother took the drug seven months after it was supposed to have been removed from the market. If they had taken the drug off the market in 61, like they were supposed to; I would never have been affected at all. My mother must have taken it around June of 62. It was supposed to have been taken off the shelf, but they didnt, Mr Stack, who lives with challenging disabilities, said. More than 100,000 pregnancies worldwide were affected by the drug between 1959 and 1962, with 90pc resulting in miscarriages and another 5pc of affected children dying before the age of one. For years, many parents had no idea Thalidomide was to blame for their childrens disabilities. However in 1963 the Department of Health had secretly collected data on all these children, but this report was not published or released to the parents. Finola Cassidys mother also took Thalidomide without realising the devastating consequences. My mother might have taken two tablets, possibly on day 22 of the pregnancy, and that is when the arms were being developed. It was a big shock. I was baptised in the delivery ward. I wasnt expected to survive, Ms Cassidy said. We feel very strongly that the State has let us down on numerous occasions. I hope it is rectified in my lifetime. I am not always sure that it will be. They really failed us, they failed us as children, and they are still failing us as adults, she said. When contacted for comment the Department of Health said it could not comment on the matter as it had been delegated to the State Claims Agency and therefore was sub judice. A spokesperson said Health Minister Stephen Donnelly met survivors and their families in February and reaffirmed the Governments commitment to provide them with the necessary health supports to meet their health-related needs. To date, the Government has not increased its compensation offer for victims. Scannal: Thalidomide, will air Tuesday, October 4, on RTE One at 7pm. Gerry The Monk Hutch is due before the Special Criminal Court today charged with the murder of Kinahan associate David Byrne A security operation is under way in Dublin this morning ahead of one of the most significant murder trials in Irish criminal history, which could face delays. Gerry The Monk Hutch (58) is due before the Special Criminal Court charged with the murder of Kinahan associate David Byrne at the Regency Hotel on February 5, 2016. However, sources have warned that the beginning of evidence being heard could be postponed due to the recent disclosure of additional evidence and pre-trial legal arguments that will aim to have certain exhibits excluded. It is expected that ex-Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall (44) will give testimony against Mr Hutch during the case that is expected to last at least three months. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald with former councillor Jonathan Dowdall The former politician was also due to stand trial accused of murder but last week was unexpectedly brought to court and admitted to a lesser charge of facilitating the murder, before being escorted away by armed gardai. Sources said additional evidence disclosed by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), including new witnesses and statements, would need to be inspected by Mr Hutch and his legal team, which will potentially delay the start of the trial. Lawyers for the murder accused have also given notice of their intention to have evidence, which they say makes up a major if not substantial part of the case against him, ruled inadmissible. This application is expected to be contested by the State, which could required a hearing prior to the trial starting, and also delay the prosecution case getting under way. A significant security operation will be in place in different parts of Dublin ahead of todays court hearing at the Criminal Courts of Justice on Parkgate Street. The event has been assessed as being high risk, which includes the standard evaluation of the potential for gunfire, weapons and public order. Mr Hutch will be escorted to court from Wheatfield Prison under armed guard while plain-clothed detectives from the Emergency Response Unit will be positioned inside the courtroom and in the court precinct. A security operation is also in place to provide armed guard to Jonathan Dowdall, who is due to be sentenced at the non-jury court this morning along with his father Patrick Dowdall (65) for facilitating the murder of David Byrne. Armed patrols are being conducted to monitor the homes of senior associates of the Hutch gang following an alert at the home of Jonathan Dowdall last week. Garda sniffer dogs will carry out a sweep of the court complex to search for explosives and firearms while a team from the Public Order Unit will be deployed to prevent any potential clashes between supporters of Mr Hutch and David Byrne. Two co-accused, Paul Murphy (59), from Swords, Co Dublin, and Jason Bonney (50) from Portmarnock, Co Dublin, are also due to stand trial charged with providing logistical support to the Regency Hotel murder team. Mary McGlinchey was shot nine times in her bathroom as she bathed her two young sons The Attorney General is consulting with the coroner for Louth on whether he should order a new inquest into the murder of Mary McGlinchey in 1987. Mrs McGlinchey, the wife of former Irish National Liberation Army (INLA) leader Dominic McGlinchey, was shot nine times in the bathroom of her Dundalk home on January 31, 1987, as she bathed her two sons, Dominic Og, aged nine, and Declan, (10). A 1988 inquest into her killing gave only a narrative finding in line with the medical evidence that she died from a laceration to the brain and bullet wounds to the head, neck and chest. Dominic Mad Dog McGlinchey, who claimed to have killed 31 people, was killed in a shooting in Drogheda in 1994. His son, Dominic Og, has now written to the Attorney General seeking to have his mothers inquest reopened, with his solicitor writing that the original verdict was perverse and left open the suggestion that Mary McGlinchey was lawfully killed or that her wounds were self-inflicted. Mr McGlinchey wants a new inquest to find that his mother was unlawfully killed by persons unknown. His solicitor, Ciaran Mulholland, has also written to the gardai seeking an update on its investigation into the murder, which was reviewed by the garda cold case team in 2012. Mary McGlinchey was 31 when she was murdered. She had spent years on the run with her husband. INLA leader Dominic McGlinchey In 1986, she was cleared of a kidnap charge by the Special Criminal Court in Dublin. She was an influential figure within the ranks of the INLA and her husband was in jail at the time of her killing. The Department of Justice refused Dominic McGlinchey permission to attend his wifes funeral. In his letter to the Attorney General last month, Ciaran Mulholland said the murder of Mary McGlinchey was believed to have sectarian motives. His client Dominic McGlinchey Jr had received the inquest file on his mothers case from Ronan Maguire, BL, the coroner for Louth, in July. This had caused him grave concerns due to its paucity, perverse verdict reached by the jury and lack of any meaningful participation by the family. Although Mr McGlinchey Jr and his brother, who has since died, were the only eyewitnesses to the killing, they were not called to give evidence to the inquest in July 1988. A verdict of unlawful killing by persons unknown was not considered by the jury. The five witnesses called included two civilians, two gardai and the State pathologist, none of whom had seen what happened when Mary McGlinchey was killed. Mr Mulhollands letter set out a series of inquest cases where unlawful death by persons unknown findings have been allowed to be considered by juries, including the new inquest into the Stardust fire deaths. He called on Paul Gallagher, the Attorney General, to use his powers under the 1961 Coroners Act to order a new inquest in light of the flaws in the original. The Attorney Generals office has since sought a copy of the original inquest file and in its most recent correspondence said it had written to Mr Maguire, the Louth coroner, to seek his submissions on the request. This weekend Mr Maguire said: I have become aware of this matter in the last few days. Any further comment would be inappropriate. In a statement, Mr Mulholland said: Given the scant documentation received from the Coroner for Co Louth and the extraordinary apathetic attitude of gardai to our enquiries, we have made representations to the Attorney General seeking that they exercise their statutory discretion and order a fresh inquest. "It is absurd to think that one of the most horrific murders during the recent Troubles is officially recorded by the State as cause of death laceration of brain. There is no doubt there was an insufficiency of inquiry as to how death occurred. Mary McGlinchey was murdered having been assaulted and shot several times at close quarters in the presence of her children. 'marriage broke down' | Wife loses out on over 1.7m as judge rules in favour of husband on when marriage ended My brain fog became so bad, I had just started a new job and I couldnt have a conversation because I couldnt get the words out, it was absolutely horrific A Northern Ireland woman has told how she was advised to change her washing powder when she went to her GP with menopause symptoms. Roisin Hillman made multiple trips to her family doctor complaining of itchy skin and agonising joint pain before she realised she was perimenopausal during a chance conversation with a friend. It was her own challenging experience of getting a diagnosis and medication to bring her symptoms under control that prompted her to set up a support group on Facebook, which has amassed more than 3,500 members. Now the west Belfast woman has organised Northern Irelands first conference dedicated to raising awareness of menopause and perimenopause, the period during which the body transitions into menopause. Roisin (53) said: Most women arent prepared for this tumultuous time, which can descend from nowhere and change a woman practically overnight. The night sweats, the weight gain, the mood swings, the insomnia for some its a rollercoaster and a car crash all in one, leaving many women wondering where to turn. Compounding it all, some GPs lack the knowledge to help, especially in the case of perimenopause symptoms, which can significantly impact some women up to 10 years before menopause begins. Roisin was 46 when she first went to her GP complaining of itchy skin and sore joints. I was back and forward to the GP, she said. I had really, really sore joints and itchy skin and I was told to change my washing powder, which I did but that didnt help. Roisin spoke to another GP who advised she change her skincare routine to address her itchy skin. It was about six or seven months and I had no idea what was wrong until I was talking to a friend about what I was going through and she mentioned menopause, that was the first time it was on my radar. I saw a different GP and suggested menopause and I wasnt exactly chased but she told me everything is put down to menopause these days. When Roisin eventually found a GP who was willing to consider she was perimenopausal, he was reticent to prescribe HRT. He gave me all the horror stories about breast cancer and blood clots but I told him I wanted HRT, she said. By this stage my ankles were so sore that I could barely get out of bed in the morning. I wasnt sleeping, that was the biggest thing, the night sweats were awful. HRT was the first thing that eased Roisins debilitating symptoms but when she had to undergo a hysterectomy and the medication was stopped by a consultant, her problems started again. By the second week I was having terrible night sweats, I was trying to recover from major surgery and I wasnt sleeping at all. My brain fog became so bad, I had just started a new job and I couldnt have a conversation because I couldnt get the words out, it was absolutely horrific. I am sure people wondered how I had got the job. I had to get back on HRT because I was sure I would lose my job otherwise. Roisin said her experience is not unique and members of her support group Menopause Support Group Northern Ireland frequently complain of difficulty getting a diagnosis or medication to help. Women know their own bodies, weve been through periods, we know when things arent right and we need to be listened to, she continued. There needs to be better awareness amongst GPs and we need to talk about menopause more, we need to educate women more about whats coming. Perhaps at the same time were teaching children about periods we could also tell them about menopause. Im not saying it should be highlighted anymore than any other condition but it shouldnt be hidden away either. If were lucky, every woman gets to go through menopause, so its something we need to address. The Menopause and Me conference will include talks from guest speakers, including menopause specialist Dr Siobhan Kirk, Dr Gwyneth Hinds, a retired doctor who worked in Northern Irelands cancer centre and has retrained as a pilates instructor, and Anne McGale, a practice nurse. BBC NI health correspondent Marie-Louise Connolly, who has spoken out about her own experience of menopause, will host the non-profit event. Roisin continued: This conference is going to be amazing, those who attend will leave feeling empowered and ready to embrace this new stage in life. All of the speakers are giving their time for free, its a non-profit event and the cost of the ticket is to cover the cost of the venue. Menopause shouldnt be feared, its a stage of life that can be managed well and I want every woman coming along to leave feeling prepared. The event takes place between 1pm and 5pm on October 16 at the Dunsilly Hotel in Antrim and tickets cost 25. Tickets are available from https://fixr.co/event/break-the-taboo-menopause-tickets-778935465 YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The video showing a group of Armenian prisoners of war being killed by the Azerbaijani troops has been in the spotlight of the Spanish media outlets. Europe Press published an article entitled EU urges to investigate the alleged executions of Armenian servicemen by Azerbaijani soldiers, where it also posted the Twitter post of EUs Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia Toivo Klaar. The news agency comments on the footage spread on Telegram channels which shows how Azerbaijani troops brutally shoot Armenian captives, as well as the statement of the Armenian defense ministry on the video. Spanish radio Cope also published an article with a similar headline. The article starts with the statement of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan who condemns the execution of Armenian POWs. Yet another horrific video circulated in social media: Azerbaijani soldiers are arbitrarily executing group of Armenian POWs on sovereign Armenian territory. International community should strongly condemn and address this war crime and take appropriate measures to halt Azerbaijans aggression, Cope radio quoted the PMs post. The Twitter post of EUs Special Representative has also been included in the article. Another Spanish radio Cadena SER released an article entitled Armenia condemns the killing of a group of POWs by Azerbaijan a week after ceasefire agreement, which has also posted the Twitter posts of PM Pashinyan and EUs Special Representative Toivo Klaar. We noticed our water tasting a bit funny about a week or so ago, one south Dublin dweller told the Sunday World. People living in parts of Dublin and Wicklow are complaining that their drinking water suddenly tastes earthy and musty. Irish Water has received complaints from residential and business customers in Dublin city, the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown area, and north and east Wicklow. We noticed our water tasting a bit funny about a week or so ago, one south Dublin dweller told the Sunday World. Ive been refilling my water bottle at the gym or work, and weve had to buy lots of big bottles of water in the shop because the water in our apartment tastes disgusting. Irish Water said that initial tests indicate that the water is safe to drink but added that the issue is being investigated. It said the taste and smell issues may have been caused by changes in the raw water characteristics, lake levels, and seasonal changes at the Vartry Water Reservoir in Co Wicklow following a major supply outage on September 9. In a statement, Irish Water said that "the water continues to fully meet chemical and microbiological regulatory standards and is safe to drink". The utility is continuing to investigate the taste and smell issues, in partnership with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Dublin City Council and Wicklow County Councils. Regional Asset Operations Lead at Irish Water, Kevin Love, said: "We are currently investigating the source of the taste and odour issues and testing the water to determine the root cause. "There may be a number of contributing factors and Irish Water are looking into possible changes in the raw water characteristics and lake levels that may be causing the complaints. "The water treatment plant is operating in full compliance with drinking water regulatory parameters and will automatically shut down if specific online monitoring records a value greater than regulatory operating targets safeguarding public health. "We have also carried out investigative and regulatory monitoring on the supply network to ensure the water quality meets regulatory compliance parameters and all samples have returned compliant results verifying the water is safe to drink." The Deers Head pub tweeted saying they are devastated for our neighbours in the Cathedral Building on Donegal Street this morning Photos show large clouds of smoke over the area this morning (Photo credit: Graham @_thekingisdead/Twitter) The scene in the area this morning (Photo credit: Graham @_thekingisdead/Twitter) The fire in a building next to Writer's Square this morning. (Photo credit: @5ft_Green/Twitter) The fire in a building next to Writer's Square this morning. (Photo credit: @5ft_Green/Twitter) Firefighters are currently on scene at a blaze at a building in the Cathedral Quarter area of Belfast city centre. In a statement the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said: NIFRS have been called to reports of a fire in a building at Old Cathedral Building, Belfast at 5.37am on Monday October 3. The fire in a building next to Writer's Square this morning. (Photo credit: @5ft_Green/Twitter) "Eight fire appliances from Belfast, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn, two aerial appliances, 52 firefighters and five officers are in attendance. The incident is ongoing. The PSNI have confirmed Donegal Street in Belfast has been closed while the NIFRS deal with the fire in the area. A number of diversions are in place. Motorists and pedestrians are being asked to avoid the area. The scene in the area this morning (Photo credit: Graham @_thekingisdead/Twitter) Translink have said said services have been stopped in the city centre until further notice with multiple diversions in place. A pub in the area, The Deers Head, tweeted saying they are devastated for our neighbours in the Cathedral Building on Donegal Street this morning. "An iconic building full of great businesses on a neglected street is not what the area needs or deserves. Hope everyone is ok Kay (80) was shocked when her husband noticed the wood grains resembled the Italian saint and said there was no doubt that Padre Pios face was in the banisters upstairs. An Irish woman has shared a photo of what she believes is an image of Padre Pio on the wooden banister of her staircase. Kay (80) was shocked when her husband noticed the wood grains resembled the Italian saint and said there was no doubt that Padre Pios face was in the banisters upstairs. Speaking to Joe Duffy on RTEs Liveline, she explained that builders had installed a new wooden staircase in her home when the unbelievable discovery was made. They were doing the banisters upstairs and my husband was giving them a hand. He was sanding down the banisters upstairs and he stopped and said to [a builder], Will you come in and have a look at this? And he said, Oh my God, I cant believe it. Thats Padre Pio! His face is in the banisters upstairs. Its been sanded and varnished many, many times and his face is still there as prominent as ever. Its unbelievable. You can see his face, you can see the high forehead, you can see the beard, and you can see his eyes. Kay is adamant that the face in the banisters was St Pio and even showed her friends a photo to see if they thought the same. I took a photo of it and showed my friends and they cant believe it. I said to them, Who do you think this is? and they said Thats Padre Pio! Its not anybody; its Padre Pio. Its the image of Padre Pio. Its definitely Padre Pio. She explained that she has great faith and devotion to the saint after he took me through a breast cancer operation in the 1990s. I had a small little relic of Padre Pio in my hand going down for my operation and the nurse couldnt believe that it was still in my fist when I came back from my operation. I swear that he took me through it. Ive never looked back after that. It comes after two women reported seeing an apparition of Padre Pio at St Saviour's Church in Limerick city on Friday during a mass to mark the 54th anniversary of the saints death. Mary Tynan and Nelly Cosgrave said that said that an enlarged photograph of St Pio changed colour and evolved into a discernible figure of Pio dressed in a brown habit. It was absolutely amazing. I saw the picture lighting up, illuminating, it was wavering. You could see the light flashing on it, said Ms Tynan. I saw the picture changing colours, it went all silvery and shiny, I was three seats back and it got so clear, this was going on for a while, said Ms Tynan. The floor [in the photo] became very clear, and Padre Pio appeared like a breeze, right down to the front of the picture, I could see his brown Capuchin habit, I could see that as clear as could be, and he was standing on his side, Tynan continued. It was so real, its very hard to explain it to people, it was remarkable. I kept looking, I was shocked but what do you do? I think, because the two of us saw it, it proves that it did happen, Im not taken-in easily. I know it happened, and Im still trying to work it out. From Monday, the basking shark which is the second-largest living fish on earth will become a protected wild animal under Irelands Wildlife Act. Legal protection for endangered basking sharks will be a game-changer for the animals population in Irish waters, campaigners have said. From Monday, the basking shark which is the second-largest living fish on earth will become a protected wild animal under Irelands Wildlife Act. Minister of State for Heritage Malcolm Noonan and Minister for the Marine Charlie McConalogue said it will now be an offence to hunt, injure, or disturb their breeding and resting places. Mr Noonan said: By strengthening protections for the basking shark, Ireland will play its part in offering improved protection to an endangered species that depend on our territorial waters to survive and flourish. This measure is a first step in additional protections for vulnerable species in Ireland. My department is working to further strengthen our wildlife laws to ensure that natural habitats are protected and restored, and to provide a better balance of safeguards for both marine and terrestrial wildlife. Dr Simon Berrow, chief science officer and chief executive of Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), welcomed the new protective status and said the change was hugely significant for the species. We have been calling for legal protection of basking sharks since 2008, he told The Irish Times. There has been protection in the UK and in Northern Ireland but not in the Republic. We have been through about three government ministers formally proposing this and justifying why it should be done, but it was always declined. So it is great that this is going through. Clearly, Ireland is globally important for basking sharks, so it is right and appropriate. We have an international obligation to protect them and their habitat. Dr Berrow, who also co-founded the Irish Basking Shark Group, said it is the first time the Wildlife Act has offered protection for a fish, which changes our relationship with them. Before with fish, it was either we eat them or we dont eat them. If we eat them, there is a quota on them, if we dont then we just ignore them. This means we are now treating sharks as wildlife, and can apply the suite of wildlife regulations to them. It is a game-changer. There are other species [of fish] that are much more endangered types of skate and ray, for example and hopefully this will open the way for us to broaden out that legal protection. Excavators will return to Bragan bog near Emyvale in Co Monaghan today to start a new search effort The family of "Disappeared" teenager Columba McVeigh has said they are "hopeful" his remains will be found as a new search for his body begins today. The 19-year-old from Donaghmore was last seen in November 1975. Excavators will return to Bragan bog near Emyvale in Co Monaghan today to start a new search effort, the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims' Remains (ICLVR) said. His brother Oliver spoke to the Belfast Telegraph ahead of the search. He said the family remains hopeful that they will find Columba. "It is the fifth search so we are realistic. I hope we find him but we've had our hopes dashed before with previous searches. He added: If anyone has information or knows anything about Columba, they need to come forward. All we want to do as a family, is to give him a proper Christian burial which he is entitled to as much as anyone else. My thoughts go to my mother, she always wanted to give him a burial and to mark his grave he said. The most recent search ended in September 2019 without finding Mr McVeigh's remains. Geoff Knupfer, the ICLVR's lead forensic investigator, said: "I'll repeat what I said when we commenced the last search four years ago: we remain convinced that Columba was buried in Bragan Bog. "The fact that we have not found his remains after a number of searches is deeply disappointing and frustrating especially for the McVeigh family. "Back in 2014 we found Brendan Megraw's remains 15 years after the first search on Oristown Bog, Co Meath. "While we never discuss the information we are working from suffice it to say we would not be searching unless we believed that there was a credible reason for doing so." Jon Hill, senior investigator with the ICLVR, will take operational control of the search. He said: "We are looking at an area of around two acres which we'll work on in two phases. "In terms of how the search will progress, much will depend on the weather and the state of the bog. "There is an additional challenge in that part of the area is forested but we'll deal with that if we have to further down the line. "We are working with a highly experienced team of contractors and archaeologists and we will do our utmost to bring this search to a successful conclusion for the McVeigh family. Mr Knupfer reiterated his appeal for information in four outstanding "Disappeared" cases Joe Lynskey, Columba McVeigh, Robert Nairac and Seamus Maguire. "The role of the ICLVR is purely humanitarian and our only desire is to bring the remains of their loved ones home to their families so that they can be given a Christian burial. "We do not carry out speculative searches." The ICLVR can be contacted by telephone 00800-55585500, international +353 1 602 8655 or by email at Secretary@iclvr.ie. Clad in buckskin dress and moccasins, Littlefeather took the stage when presenter Roger Moore read Brando's name as the winner for best actor. FILE - Sacheen Littlefeather, a Native American activist, tells the audience at the Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, March 27, 1973, that Marlon Brando was declining to accept his Oscar as best actor for his role in "The Godfather." Sacheen Littlefeather died Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022, at her home in Marin County, Calif. She was 75. (AP Photo/File) AP/PA Images Sacheen Littlefeather holds a written statement from actor Marlon Brando refusing his Best Actor Oscar on stage at the Academy Awards on March 27, 1973 (Photo: Getty) Getty Images Sacheen Littlefeather, the actor and activist who declined Marlon Brandos 1973 Academy Award for The Godfather on his behalf in an indelible protest of Hollywood's portrayal of Native Americans, has died. She was 75. Littlefeather's niece, Calina Lawrence, confirmed that she died peacefully Sunday, surrounded by loved ones at her Marin County, California, home. The cause was breast cancer, the family said. Littlefeathers appearance at the 1973 Oscars would become one of the award show's most famous moments. Clad in buckskin dress and moccasins, Littlefeather took the stage when presenter Roger Moore read Brando's name as the winner for best actor. Speaking to the audience, Littlefeather cited Native American stereotypes in film and the then-ongoing weeks long protest at Wounded Knee in South Dakota as the reason for Brandos absence. She said Brando had written a very long speech but she was restricted by time to brief remarks. Producer Howard Koch had allegedly warned Littlefeather, then 26, that he would have her arrested if she spoke for more than a minute. FILE - Sacheen Littlefeather, a Native American activist, tells the audience at the Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, March 27, 1973, that Marlon Brando was declining to accept his Oscar as best actor for his role in "The Godfather." Sacheen Littlefeather died Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022, at her home in Marin County, Calif. She was 75. (AP Photo/File) AP/PA Images I beg at this time that I have not intruded upon this evening and that we will in the future, our hearts and our understandings will meet with love and generosity, Littlefeather said, becoming the first Native American woman to appear onstage at the Oscars. Although brief, straightforward and courteous, Littlefeathers appearance was contentious, receiving a mix of applause and boos from the audience. In the years after, Littlefeather endured considerable scorn and abuse for her speech, she said. I spoke from my heart, she told The Associated Press days after the Oscars. Those words were written in blood, perhaps my own blood. I felt about like Christ carrying the weight of the cross on his shoulders. Only recently did the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences officially address the treatment Littlefeather received following her appearance. In August, the film academy apologised to Littlefeather. Two weeks ago, it held an evening of conversation, healing and celebration in her honor. "The abuse you endured because of this statement was unwarranted and unjustified, the academy's president, David Rubin, wrote in a letter to Littlefeather. The emotional burden you have lived through and the cost to your own career in our industry are irreparable. For too long the courage you showed has been unacknowledged. For this, we offer both our deepest apologies and our sincere admiration. Littlefeather responded in a statement: "We Indians are very patient people its only been 50 years! Activist and actress Sacheen Littlefeather in 2010. PA AP/PA Images We need to keep our sense of humour about this at all times, she added. "Its our method of survival. Littlefeather was born Marie Cruz on Nov. 14, 1946, in Salinas, California. Her father was from the White Mountain Apache and Yaqui tribes and her mother was white. Both were saddle makers. They separated when Littlefeather was four, after which she was raised largely by her grandparents. She took the name Sacheen Littlefeather after high school. Sacheen, she said, was what her father had called her; the surname came from a feather she often wore in her hair. Littlefeathers entry into acting corresponded with her activism. She was part of the Native American occupation of Alcatraz Island in 1969, she said, and began acting with San Francisco's American Conservatory Theater in the early '70s. Littlefeather met Brando through her neighbour, Godfather director Francis Ford Coppola. She had known Brando for about a year before he called her the night before the 1973 ceremony, invited her to his house and asked her to attend in his place. Political speeches at the Oscars were then still a rarity, and some in attendance saw the brief address as a break in decorum and one that raised a subject not everyone was eager to consider. I dont know if I should present this award on behalf of all the cowboys shot in all the John Ford Westerns over the years, Clint Eastwood said later in the evening, while presenting the award for best picture. Presenting best actress, presenter Raquel Welch cracked: "I hope they havent got a cause. I went up there thinking I could make a difference, Littlefeather told People magazine in 1990. I was very naive. I told people about oppression. They said, Youre ruining our evening. Littlefeather described the overwhelmingly white crowd as a sea of Clorox. She said some audience members did the so-called tomahawk chop and that Brandos house was later shot at. Over the years, Littlefeather added to the lore, describing John Wayne, who was in the theatre wings as she spoke, as ready to have me taken off stage. In 2016, Littlefeather told The Los Angeles Times that Wayne had to be restrained by six security guards." The film scholar Farran Smith Nehme has since researched the supposed incident and found no evidence it occurred. But it was indisputable that Littlefeathers life was altered by those 60 seconds. Following the Oscars, her credentials as an actor and activist Littlefeather had posed in 1972 for Playboy, which she defended as proof that red was beautiful were questioned in tabloid reports and elsewhere. Her opportunities as an actor dried up. Littlefeather said she was red-listed from the industry. She fell out of show business and, in the decades after, worked primarily as an activist for Native Americans. At the academy event last month, Littlefeather, then in a wheelchair, said despite all the hardship she faced after the Oscars, she would do it all again. I was representing all Indigenous voices out there, because we had never been heard in that way before," Littlefeather said. "And if I had to pay the price of admission, then that was OK, because those doors had to be opened like Yosemite Sam. Somebody had to do it. Hato Hone St John is on a mission to empower 10,000 people with the 3 Steps for Life as part of its Shocktober and Restart a Heart Day campaigns - RAHD. Cardiac arrest remains one of the leading causes of death in New Zealand with more than 2000 people a year treated for cardiac arrest. Of those, only 25 per cent survive hospital arrival and 11 per cent leave hospital alive. Jacci Tatnell, Hato Hone St John Head of Community Education, says while the statistics are alarming, the good news is survival rates can double with a little help from a friend. Bystander CPR can mean the difference between life or death, which is why we are committed to training as many people as possible in Nga Tohu Whakaora e Toru the 3 Steps for Life programme: CALL, PUSH, SHOCK - call 111, push is to start CPR, and shock is to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)," says Jacci. Our goal is to deliver it to 10,000 people by leveraging on Restart a Heart Day on Sunday October 16 and focusing the whole month of October on CPR and AED training - which is also why we've coined it 'Shocktober'." To help deliver on that goal, Hato Hone St John will be holding free public training events across the motu. Were super excited because this is the first time in two years that we have been able to mark Restart a Heart Day with public training events due to the pandemic. Jacci says the urgency to learn CPR and how to use an AED was more important than ever, given that the latest Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest Report showed cardiac survival rates fell during the pandemic. The more people we can empower with the 3 Steps for Life, which is a free programme, the more lives are likely to be saved. Hato Hone St John also encourages everyone that learns the 3 Steps for Life to become a GoodSAM responder. This means they will be alerted when someone nearby is in cardiac arrest so they can respond before emergency services arrive giving that person the best chance of survival, says Jacci. RESTART A HEART DAY & SHOCKTOBER PUBLIC EVENTS Eastgate Mall, Linwood Avenue, Otautahi, Christchurch - Sunday 16th October* Otara Market, Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland - Saturday 15th October* Napier Conference Centre - Tuesday 11th October* Hawkes Bay Trucking for Child Cancer - Saturday 8th October, 9am 3pm Hamilton Farmers Market - Saturday 8th October; 8am - 12pm Cambridge Market - 1st & 8th October; 8am - 12pm Te Kuiti Farmers Market - 1st October* Queenstown Airport - Monday 17th October* Havelock North Street Fair - Saturday 29th October, 10am 2pm *Please note times for these events are yet to be confirmed Facts and figures: New Zealand has more than 6,000 people registered as GoodSAM responders AED numbers in the community are growing, with more than 5,500 registered throughout the country. That number has been bolstered at marae across New Zealand with gifts of AEDs into vulnerable communities thanks to ASB, with the support of Phillips and St John. In addition, all ASB branches have AEDs. Actions: Jupiter, a local Tauranga dog, has made the finals of New Zealand Dog of the Year with the winner due to be announced next month. Nicole Baker is the proud owner of Jupiter, an Australian Kelpie, and is extremely proud of how well he has done. Hes just been named a finalist in New Zealand Top Dog 22 which is a huge competition run by a company called Frog Recruitment they focus on dogs. This year they received 350 entries for the category that I submitted Jupiter into, Nicole says. I submitted him into the work from home category and what they focus on is how your dog helps improve your mental health when youre working remotely which has become a lot more common due to COVID, she says. Before Jupiter came along Nicoles struggle with mental health severely impacted her career. My whole role now is remote, and I used to struggle staying in roles with companies. I would get really stressed and anxious and it would just be too much for me and Id end up just having to leave. Ive had a rocky career history, she says. Nicole says that Jupiter has changed her mental and work life for the better. I got Jupiter just as I started the job Im currently in and its crazy the difference hes made in my life. Im still in the role and got over my one-year milestone which doesnt sound like much to a lot of people, but for me it really is, she says. Jupiter just made me focus on the present and I felt that a lot of the time my anxiety makes me either obsess over the past or focus too much on the future. Having a little fur-child made me focus 100 percent on the present because I have a little life to look after, she says. Aside from being a great support to Nicole, Jupiter has had to show off his repertoire of tricks to make it to the finals and is classified as an advanced trick dog. Jupiter can ring a bell, do spins in both directions, leg weave, he can go up my arm and walk, walk forwards and backwards on command, and he can stay put and still when I leave the room, she says. We wish Nicole and Jupiter the best of luck for the finals. You can vote for the New Zealand Top Dog 22 at https://www.frogrecruitment.co.nz/vote-for-2022-nztopdog. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. At any cost Armenia will achieve real tools to be used against Azerbaijan by the international community in addition to condemning statements, the Deputy Minister of Justice Grigor Minasyan said over the video showing the extrajudicial killings of Armenian PoWs by Azeri troops. Our colleagues, both the Ombudsperson and the representatives of the government on international legal affairs, are already utilizing toolkits and will apply to both the ECHR and the International Court of Justice, Minasyan told reporters. Minasyan said they are doing everything so that the assessments are made in legal terms and that such cases are ruled out through working with international partners. At any cost we will achieve, that in addition to condemning statements, there will be real tools used and that at least those guilty get designated by the international community as the perpetrators and that this act gets condemned, Minasyan said. He added that this footage, as well as events that took place in the past few months and years, shows that everyone needs peace. However, this footage also proves that there is still a lot to be done in that direction. Asked about the expectations from applying to international courts, he said: First of all, to record the given crime, and through working with international partners to force them to hold the perpetrators accountable based on their national legislation. The footage of the gruesome killings of Armenian PoWs by Azeri troops was posted online in Azeri social media. The authenticity of the video has been validated by the Human Rights Defender and the Defense Ministry using video data base material, comparative analyses of terrain, weather conditions, conversations and uniforms of the troops. Earlier on October 2, following the release of the video showing the killings of Armenian PoWs by Azeri troops, EUs Special Representative for South Caucasus Toivo Klaar had tweeted: Another horrible video has emerged of Armenian prisoners of war apparently being executed. If this video is proven to be authentic then this is a war crime that needs to be investigated and the perpetrators punished." ALL INDIA DEMOCRATIC WOMENS ASSOCIATION 2253-E, Shadi Khampur, New Ranjit Nagar, New Delhi - 110008 hone: 011-25700476, 25709565 Email: aidwacec[at]gmail.com Website: aidwaonline.org Date: October 1, 2022 AIDWA STATEMENT ON THE SC JUDGEMENT ON ABORTION RIGHTS The All India Democratic Womens Association (AIDWA) welcomes the judgment of three judges of the Supreme Court in the case of X v. The Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, Govt. of NCT of Delhi in which the Supreme Court held that unmarried women have the right to access safe and legal abortions between twenty and twenty-four weeks of pregnancy, if they face a change in their material circumstances, similar to married women. The Delhi High Court, which first heard the petition, had held that Section 3(2)(b) of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 ("MTP Act") and Rule 38 of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Rules, 2003 ("MTP Rules") was inapplicable to the case because the pregnant woman was unmarried and her pregnancy arose out of a consensual relationship. Section 3(2)(b) of the MTP Act, 1971 allows the termination of a pregnancy, where the length of the pregnancy is between twenty and twenty-four weeks, of such categories of women "as may be prescribed by Rules." For a pregnant woman to qualify for such termination, the medical practitioners (not less than two) have to be of the opinion that either the continuance of the pregnancy would involve danger to the life, physical health and mental health of the woman, or that there is substantial risk that the child will suffer from serious mental or physical abnormalities. Rule 38 of the MTP Rules provides the categories of women who wil be eligible for termination of pregnancy under Section 3(2)(b) of the MTP Act. The Supreme Court observed that a narrow interpretation of Rule 3B, limited only to married women, would render the provision discriminatory towards unmarried women and be violative of Article 14 of the Constitution. It further held that the right to reproductive autonomy, dignity, and privacy under Article 21 gives an unmarried woman the right of choice on whether or not to bear a child, on a similar footing of a married woman. The Supreme Court stated that the judgment applies not just to cisgender women, but to all persons who require access to safe abortions. It also held that the categories under Rule 38 are not exhaustive and must be understood as "extending to all women who undergo a change of material circumstances." The term "cisgender" refers to people whose gender identity and expression matches the biological sex they were assigned when they were born. In the context of this judgement, persons other than cisgender women who need access to safe abortions can cover transgender men who were assigned "female" sex at birth (and have female sexual organs) but identify with the gender identity "man". The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 ("POCSO Act") criminalises sexual activities (consensual and non-consensual) between minors. In the context of the mandatory reporting obligation under Section 19(1) of the POCSO Act that often prevents minors from accessing reproductive healthcare, the Supreme Court held that the registered medical practitioner conducting the medical termination of pregnancy, only on request of the minor and the guardian of the minor, is not obligated to disclose the identity and other personal details of the minor. Further that, the medical practitioner does not have to disclose the identity of the minor in any criminal proceedings that may arise. AIDWA is currently before the Supreme Court on appeal from the Delhi High Court split which failed to criminalize marital rape and welcomes this judgement of the Supreme Court that recognises the primacy of consent and autonomy of women under the Constitution. The Supreme Court in this judgement, held that "rape" under Rule 38 of the MIP Rules also includes marital rape because sexual intercourse without consent or willis forced intercourse or rape, regardless of whether it occurs in the context of marriage. The court also observed that the artificial distinction between married and single women is not constitutionally sustainable. AIDWA has campaigned for the criminalisation of marital rape since the 90s and has submitted various petitions to the Government to remove the marital rape exception from the Indian Penal Code. AIDWA is hopeful that this judgement furthers the rights of bodily autonomy of women and access to safe abortion, AIDWA calls upon the central and state governments to take steps to provide adequate infrastructure in the health system for safe abortion in the absence of which women face risks in accessing this right. Malini Bhattacharya (President) Mariam Dhawale (General Secretary) YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Following deadly clashes with Azerbaijan, Armenia has found greater support from the U.S. than it has from its historic ally Russia, Fox News said describing the current situation around Armenia following the latest incidents and presenting the interview with Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan, which has been done during his working visit in the USA. According to Fox News, Armenian officials are "concerned" about Russia's continued supply of weapons to Azerbaijan. Grigoryan said that Russias role as an Azeri weapons supplier is "nothing new" and a "long story" that Armenia has raised with Moscow. It's public information: Yes, it's true. And that concerns us very much, and it's not a new story, he said. During the interview Armen Grigoryan also talked about the latest military aggression of Azerbaijan against Armenia, stating that the international community should take steps and condemn the use of force by Azerbaijan. WTF?! Do you find that your keyboard is too conventional? Are you looking to reduce your words-per-minute count to single figures? Google Japan has the answer with the Gboard bar, a keyboard that places all the keys in a single, very long line. The GBoard stick version keyboard is, of course, more of a jokey project than a real product the company is launchingGoogle Japan has added all the technical specifications to a Github page so anyone with access to a 3D printer can build one themselves. The associated video explains that after years of focusing on the 'key' part of keyboard, Google Japan wanted to look at what is "next to the key," which in Japanese translates to staff or bar. Designers came up with a 65-inch-long stick that looks like a weapon. While it is comically long, the designers note that because it is only slightly wider than a single key, the keyboard is ideal for cluttered desks with a sliver of space at the bottom. It's also easy to clean and less likely to be stepped on by cats, apparently. The keyboard uses a QWERTY layout in a straight line, so rather than utilizing years of muscle memory to hit the right key instantly, users can simply remember how many letters from the left each key is placedG is 16thor perhaps the physical distanceS is 23cmssimple! And more than one person can use it simultaneously, which sounds awful. Being a DIY project, builders can customize the keyboard however they want, so you might find a better use for it than typing; Google Japan could develop an RGB-covered gaming version in the future. Moreover, the physical properties mean it doubles as a ruler to record your growing family's height, a balancing pole for tightrope walkers, or a tool for reaching items stuck under furniture. You could even attach a net to the end, turning the peripheral into an insect catcher. Check out all the information you need to make your own multi-functional stick-like keyboard right here. What just happened? One of the few remain Google services still available in mainland China, Google Translate, has been discontinued in the Asian nation, allegedly because hardly anyone was using it. The country's dedicated website for Google Translate now redirects visitors to the Hong Kong version, which isn't accessible from mainland China. "We are discontinuing Google Translate in mainland China due to low usage," Google said in a statement. But according to web analytics platform Similarweb (via the South China Morning Post), the Chinese Google Translate website recorded 53.5 million visits from desktop and mobile users combined in August. Google has had a complex relationship with China over the years. A massive cyberattack combined with the copious government censorship internet users must contend with prompted the US firm to pull its search engine from China in 2010, just four years after officially entering the market. The move came soon after Google stopped censoring its services in the country, defying the government. Google Translate was reintroduced to mainland China in 2017 following speculation that it was set to make a return. But it now joins Gmail, Chrome, and Search on the list of unavailable Google products in the country, much to the disappointment of users but doubtlessly bringing a smile to the face of VPN companies. Despite the apparent animosity, there were reports in 2018 that Google had built a heavily-censored version of its search engine, codenamed Dragonfly, for the Chinese market that linked queries to phone numbers. It was also said to block certain forbidden subjects, including religion, human rights, and peaceful protests. The news brought plenty of pushback from Google employees, US politicians, and human rights campaigners, contributing to the project being shut down a few months later, ensuring it never saw the light of day. Tensions between China and the US have been rising recently. Passing the Chips Act brought cries of discrimination from Chinese politicians, and US officials instructing Nvidia and AMD to stop selling their high-performance AI-focused GPUs to the country caused plenty of anger. The US has also been hitting China with export bans and sections, hindering plans to develop its domestic semiconductor market, and we recently heard of an unsuccessful China-based campaign that tried to influence the US midterms. But none of this has deterred Microsoft from increasing its presence in the country. TL;DR: The coming energy crisis could bring mobile Internet to a halt in many European countries. Plans are being considered to weather the storm, but Europe would likely suffer from its own success in bringing reliable electricity to its citizens. A conjunction of power cuts and energy rationing plans could make mobile Internet unreliable and unavailable in Europe. Winter is coming and according to sources from within the industry, everybody knows the market will face a lot of issues. As a consequence of Russia's decision to stop gas supplies via Europe's key supply routes, both industries and governments are now scrambling to find potential solutions to the issue. The alarms stem directly from telecom industry sources, who are fearful of the impact on the mobile infrastructure in Europe's biggest countries. According to four unnamed telecom executives quoted by Reuters, right now there aren't enough backup systems to account for widespread power cuts. In Europe, there are half a million mobile towers and most of them are equipped with battery backup systems that can last up to 30 minutes. A plan devised by Enedis, a state-owned French company that manages low and medium voltage power distribution over 1,300,000 km of lines, takes into account potential power outages lasting up to two hours in worst-case scenarios. Enedis and telecom operators had talks with the French government about the energy market over the summer, but the distribution utility was unable to spare cell towers from general blackouts. In Enedis' plans, mobile Internet is not considered an essential service like hospital, police and government facilities where power cuts would be avoided. In Sweden, telecom regulator PTS is trying to avoid widespread connectivity outages by financing the purchase of transportable fuel stations and mobile base stations that could work in place of unavailable cell towers to let smartphones and mobile devices connect to the Internet. Germany's Deutsche Telekom has 33,000 mobile radio towers to feed power to, and the company will use emergency systems relying on diesel in cases of prolonged outages. In Italy, the head of telecoms lobby Asstel Massimo Sarmi will ask the country's new government to exclude mobile networks from any possible energy saving plan. At this point, the situation doesn't seem to be very clear but Europe will likely suffer from its own success in keeping the continent's energy infrastructure efficient and reliable. One source from the telecom industry said Europe is "a bit spoiled" in that regard, so there weren't as many investments in energy storage solutions as in other parts of the world. The UK has ambitious plans for a new energy product to create soil batteries that will help store solar power underground, according to Interesting Engineering. (Photo : Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) SHIRLEY, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 04: An aerial view of a solar array at Brookhaven Calabro Airport on September 04, 2022 in Shirley, New York. Solar panels are popping up all over Long Island as an attractive alternative source of energy. The design recently received a huge funding boost from the UK government, which will leverage the Earth's microbial life to transfer energy, based on a report by Euronews. Underground Energy Storage There have been successful experiments that involve adding soil to a jar with a few electrodes and connecting them. The idea here is to stimulate certain microorganisms in the soil by using buried electrodes to receive electricity from solar panels. This is because when you make energy available to microorganisms, they will use it in some way to survive. There are certain organisms that can use electrical energy to perform electrosynthesis, where they combine carbon-based molecules from carbon dioxide. The bugs that feed on them can expel electrons that go across the circuit and produce electricity as necessary. The process is similar to photosynthesis, but in this case, the bugs will use the energy to decrease the carbon dioxide and create acetate. It will function as a chemical energy reserve, and when needed, a separate circuit will be activated that will cause different groups of bacteria to become active and start breaking down the acetate. However, an excessive amount of acetate can harm other life forms in the ecosystem. This is why they will focus on the busiest top layers. Still, its impact still requires further investigation. One of the advantages of this idea is that it doesn't need hazardous chemicals like lithium. Instead, it will create organic molecules that are usually present in the soil and produced naturally by microorganisms in smaller quantities. Also Read: Energy Dome is a CO2 Power Storage Generator for Solar Energy, Capable of Storing 200 MWh A Highly Transformative Impact The prototype will work every day, which will store solar energy for use at night. Eventually, the batteries may be positioned below solar panel fields. The researchers also hope to scale up by connecting hundreds of cells for a higher voltage. It's very early in the process, but it can be an innovative way to store energy in the long run. If the technology is functional, it can be a long-term option for renewable power sources. The system could also have a transformative impact on the energy sector by keeping power stations open longer as they can store solar energy during high-demand periods. The cost is also expected to drop significantly over time. It's worth noting that in the UK, the solar industry is becoming increasingly popular. The government has done so much to support it, and the government's policies have been effective in promoting solar penetration. This study is a great way to start paving the way for renewable energy systems that can help solve climate change. Truly, innovations like this are the key to a cleaner and more sustainable future for all of Earth. Related Article: MIT Develops Aluminum-Sulfur Batteries That May Be a More Cost-Effective Way to Store Renewable Energy This article is owned by Tech Times Written by April Fowell 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Economy Vahan Kerobyan commented on the increase of real estate prices and rentals in Armenia associated with especially the large flow of Russian citizens. A few minutes ago a friend of mine, whos coming to Armenia for a few days, told me that he is unable to find a hotel room for one night cheaper than 500 euros, Kerobyan said. The economy minister said that apartment rentals have also increased. We are now working to be able to bring new apartments or rooms with cheaper rent prices into the market. We are working with the private companies, as well as we are trying to create a program that would help doing so, Kerobyan said. Nearly 7000 apartments in Yerevan were vacant in early 2022, but now all of them are occupied. He said they are working for more apartments to enter circulation from the secondary market. Kerobyan said they are taking into account the number of people who are arriving to Armenia on a daily basis. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The European Union has called on the authorities of Azerbaijan to immediately investigate the footage that has gone viral, in which Azerbaijani soldiers brutally shoot Armenian soldiers who had already been taken prisoner in an Armenian military position, ARMENPRESS reports Peter Stano, Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced in a press conference in Brussels. "We call for an immediate investigation by the relevant authorities. The footage, which shows how Azerbaijani soldiers execute Armenian soldiers, should be investigated by the Azerbaijani authorities," he said. According to Stano, if the results of the investigation prove the authenticity of the footage, it is a war crime and a clear violation of international law. Such a crime should be condemned, he added. On October 2, a footage was published on the Azerbaijani telegram channels, in which it was seen how the Azerbaijani soldiers brutally shoot the captured Armenian soldiers at the Armenian military position. Toivo Klaar, the special representative of the European Union in the South Caucasus, stated that if the authenticity of the video is confirmed, then it is a war crime that should be investigated. Armenian human rights defender Kristine Grigoryan stated that the killing of Armenian prisoners of war by the Azerbaijani military took place on September 13, during the large-scale attack of Azerbaijan against the Republic of Armenia. Urgent | Adviser to the Iranian guide for military affairs: We have made progress in the manufacture of drones, and there are 22 countries that want to buy them from us YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan received the US Ambassador to Armenia Lynne Tracy. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, at the beginning of the meeting, the Deputy PM presented the situation created as a result of the recent large-scale aggression of Azerbaijan against the sovereign territory of Armenia and thanked the US authorities for the addressed statements. The Ambassador emphasized the visits of the ambassadors accredited to Armenia to the affected settlements organized by the Government. The Deputy PM and the US Ambassador also exchanged ideas on issues related to Armenian-US bilateral cooperation, referred to the work being done in the direction of the creation of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Armenia. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Artsakh Republic President Arayik Harutyunyan, responding to the proposal of the National Assemblys political forces, convened an extended sitting of the Security Council with the participation of a number of high-ranking officials, representatives of all the parliamentary forces and Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Recent military-political developments around the Artsakh Republic were on the discussion agenda. Following the thorough discussions, the Security Council of the Artsakh Republic adopted a statement. The statement reads: Concerned by the serious challenges caused by current developments in the world and in our region, Reaffirming the positions of the Artsakh Republic executive and legislative power branches regarding the future of Artsakh, Referring to the September 19 address of the Artsakh Republic President, Considering the new developments following it, in particular, concerns of our public regarding some of the thoughts and views expressed in the interview of the Premier of the Republic of Armenia given to the Armenian Public Television on September 30, We, all the participants of the extended sitting of the Security Council of the Artsakh Republic, declare: We record that as a result of the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggression of 2020 and the subsequent two-year military-political developments, we actually have a situation where Azerbaijan, with Turkey's unconditional support, has gained influential leverage and is aggressively using them to realize its most ambitious aspirations. Azerbaijan's actions are accompanied by consistent use of force and threat of force, aggravating manifestations of the Armenophobe state policy, and other gross violations of the fundamental norms of international law. Using all the levers, Azerbaijan strives to ensure its oppressive and dictating position not only in relations with the Republic of Armenia, but also to abort any format and efforts for the settlement of the Karabakh conflict, declaring that it has solved the problem by war. Contrary to that, the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries and other international actors have reaffirmed by different formulations the existence of the conflict and the need for its comprehensive settlement. The position of the Artsakh Republic has always been clear: the Karabakh conflict should be settled on the basis of the full and non-negotiable recognition of the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination and the results of its realization. It is undeniable that in 1991 the people of Artsakh declared independence in conformity with the norms of international law and USSR legislation, and Artsakh has never been part of independent Azerbaijan. Moreover, the fact that the Artsakh Republic is not recognized internationally does not mean that the people of Artsakh have no natural rights and the Artsakh Republic does not exist. Despite all the difficulties and challenges, from now on we will continue our chosen path towards determining and managing our own destiny in our own homeland. The long-term and stable security of Artsakh should be ensured through our own defense capacities, the termless mission of Russian peacekeepers, and all possible tools of the Republic of Armenia. Improving our own defense capacities is an ongoing effort and is in the spotlight of our attention. The Russian peacekeeping mission, despite the additional challenges of recent months, continues to be the main international guarantee of the security of the people of Artsakh. Within this context, we consider the attempts to worsen traditional relations with natural allies as extremely dangerous. The Artsakh Republic and the Artsakh Armenians stand by the statehood and people of Mother Armenia in overcoming all vital challenges, because it has been stipulated by our national values and interests. We perceive that the possible signing of an interstate agreement regulating the Armenia-Azerbaijan relations can become an important basis for guaranteeing the sovereign and safe future of the Republic of Armenia, regional stability and peace. However, taking into account the importance of the interests of the Artsakh Armenians, as an inseparable part of the Armenian people, in these relations, we emphasize that any document that may ignore the existence of the Karabakh conflict, undermine the prospect of its fair settlement, and limit the possibilities of international recognition of the right of the Artsakh people to self-determination and the results of its implementation is unacceptable for us, including the false agenda of its subordination to the principle of territorial integrity. Within this context, we highlight the periodic consultations between the authorities of the Artsakh Republic and the Republic of Armenia on the topic, within the framework of which the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia presents details of international negotiations to the Artsakh Republic President, and the President, in his turn, presents the positions of the Artsakh Republic authorities, including their disagreements. During the past three decades, both the logic and the practical steps of the Armenian people's national-liberation struggle and state-building process were based on consolidating the pan-Armenian potential and directing the political support of our friends and allies in the right direction. Taking into account the positive experience of the past, the best guarantee for overcoming these difficult challenges faced by the Armenian people is the manifestation of national unity. We have always appreciated the consistent support of the entire Armenian people and the Republic of Armenia to the Artsakh Republic, without which we could not have recorded numerous important successes in our struggle. In that sense, there is simply no alternative to maintaining and cementing the Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora trinity. Our national values and interests imply that regardless of anything, Mother Armenia should always be next to Artsakh in all spheres, especially in terms of guaranteeing the security of the people of Artsakh and international recognition of the right to self-determination. It is undeniable that the beneficiary of the future of Artsakh is the entire Armenian people, and the interests of Armenia and Artsakh should be seen as a single whole. Considering especially the post-war context and challenges, we highlight that as long as the Artsakh Republic is not included in the conflict resolution process as a full-fledged member and within the framework of a high international format, the Republic of Armenia is obliged and authorized to represent and protect the rights and interests of the people of Artsakh on international platforms. Those obligations and powers are fixed by a number of internal and international documents, including the OSCE documents and the tripartite declaration of November 9, 2020. Hence, we are ready to conduct negotiations with Azerbaijan on the settlement of the conflict, in case of restoration of the full-fledged format of negotiations, where the Artsakh Republic is recognized as a full party. The authorities of the Artsakh Republic will continue to follow the geopolitical and regional developments, taking appropriate steps to manage the risks arising from the situation. The Louisiana Office of Tourism has been awarded $300,000 from the U.S. Department of Commerce to promote the state as a vacation destination in three international markets. (Photo by Scott Threlkeld, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate) YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The British Embassy in Armenia is horrified by the footage showing captured Armenian soldiers being shot by Azerbaijani forces, ARMENPRESS was informed from the Embassys Facebook page. The British Embassy is horrified by a video which appears to show captured Armenian soldiers being shot by Azerbaijani forces. We welcome the announcement by the Azerbaijani Prosecutor Generals Office of their commitment to comprehensively investigate the video. We expect the outcome of the investigations to be made public. We expect all allegations of mistreatment, abuse and summary killings to be fully investigated by the appropriate authorities, reads the post. On October 2, a footage was published on the Azerbaijani telegram channels, in which it was seen how the Azerbaijani soldiers brutally shoot the captured Armenian soldiers at the Armenian military position. Toivo Klaar, the special representative of the European Union in the South Caucasus, stated that if the authenticity of the video is confirmed, then it is a war crime that should be investigated. Armenian human rights defender Kristine Grigoryan stated that the killing of Armenian prisoners of war by the Azerbaijani military took place on September 13, during the large-scale attack of Azerbaijan against the Republic of Armenia. The board of Credit Suisse is in hot water and unfortunately for it the comparisons with the collapse of Lehman Brothers reflects on the level of fear and doubt surrounding the continued future of the Swiss bank. In three weeks time, Credit Suisses management will update the market on a plan to overhaul the bank and ring-fence its troubled assets. But until then, the rumours of its demise will continue to swirl and Credit Suisse hasnt helped itself on that front. An information vacuum has allowed the investment community and the media plenty of time to speculate the worst. A growing chorus of social media posting survival concerns, including one from ABC journalist David Taylor, has further elevated the crisis. The Credit Suisse building in Switzerland. The gloves are finally off for the investment bank, sources say. Credit:AP The negativity has weighed down Credit Suisses share price, which has fallen 56 per cent this year - wiping more than $US10 billion from its market value. But even more disturbing is the fact that in the past week, the cost of insuring the banks bonds has risen 15 per cent. As far as the market is concerned, the risk levels around Credit Suisse are rising fast. Twitter wants a Delaware court to order Elon Musk to buy the social media service for $US44 billion ($68 billion), as he promised in April. But what if a judge makes that ruling and Musk balks? The Tesla billionaires reputation for dismissing government pronouncements has some worried that he might flout an unfavorable ruling of the Delaware Court of Chancery, known for its handling of high-profile business disputes. Musk hopes to win the case thats headed for an October trial. Hes scheduled to be deposed by Twitter attorneys starting on Thursday. But the consequences of him losing badly either by an order of specific performance that forces him to complete the deal, or by walking away from Twitter but still coughing up a billion dollars or more for breach of contract has raised concerns about how the Delaware court would enforce its final ruling. Optus customers who received text or email messages in a mass blitz at the long weekend alerting them that their drivers licence number or personal information had been exposed in the mass cyberattack say they are more confused than before. Optus customers received the same message across Australia saying their Driver Licence was exposed, not the card number, and urging them to wait for advice from their state or territory government. NSW Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello says new drivers licences offer extra protection to those who have had their personal data hacked. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Those whose licence details were stolen said they were afraid that scammers would use those details to access bank accounts, and apply for loans or credit in their name. As part of a new national document verification system (DVS) adopted in NSW, and most other states, drivers licences now include three security points. Without all three, they are useless. They have a licence number in the bottom left of the card, as required for decades, an expiry date, and a new card number, in the top right-hand corner of the card. A gunman who threatened people inside a Brisbane business and demanded money from the till only managed to grab $3 from a tips jar. Queensland police issued an alert for an armed man who held up a Nundah business then made off with spare change from a tips jar. Credit:Queensland Police Service Police were appealing for information to identify the man, who entered a business overnight on Buckland Road in Nundah about 2.30am. He pulled out a firearm and threatened people inside the premises, police said. The man then approached the bar and demanded money, but police said he was unsuccessful in getting cash from the tills. Catholic school parents and principals are being urged to get behind a campaign to pressure Victorias major parties into a record $800 million election funding commitment to upgrade dilapidated school buildings. The Catholic Education Commission of Victoria has launched its Fair Catholic Funding push for a four-year package to build new schools and upgrade more than 100 others that are in some cases a century old, leaky and ill-equipped to provide a 21st century learning space. Maree McIntosh, principal of Our Lady Help of Christians school in East Brunswick. Credit:Justin McManus The commission wants resources to cater for an expected enrolment boom in Melbournes growth corridors where the population is rising and many parents from non-English-speaking backgrounds prefer a religious education. Closer to the city at East Brunswicks Our Lady Help of Christians primary school, principal Maree McIntosh argues the funding disparity between government and Catholic schools is obvious to parents who inspect her school, which is 83 years old, has a partly dirt-filled unfinished oval and requires a paint job. Victorian primary school teachers will be required to adopt a phonics-based reading approach meaning students will be taught to sound out words under a Coalition plan aimed at bolstering literacy skills. The opposition will on Tuesday unveil a plan that would, if it wins next months state election, in effect mandate the use of phonics in Victorian schools. Under the proposal, a new screening check would be introduced so that 18 months after students start school they would be tested to see if they are using the technique to decode unknown words. Victorian teachers will be required to teach students to sound out words, if the Coalition is elected. Credit:Wayne Taylor Opposition education spokesman David Hodgett told The Age, it was time to end the era of guesswork in Victoria and roll out an evidence-based reading approach. The proposed $220 million investment in systematic synthetic phonics a method which teaches students the link between letters and the sounds they represent will also include funding for books, lesson plans and training to help all Victorian primary schools transition to the same model for reading instruction. A man has died after a house fire in Melbournes north-western suburbs which took firefighters almost an hour to extinguish and resulted in extensive damage. Emergency services were called to the single storey home in Baird Street, Maidstone, at 3.15am on Tuesday after reports that flames were coming from its roof. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal house fire in Baird Street, Maidstone. Credit:Wayne Taylor Callers to triple zero raised concerns for an elderly resident who lived in the house, a spokeswoman for Fire Rescue Victoria said. A man was pulled from the property by firefighters, but was unresponsive and died at the scene. On a Friday evening in July last year, 23-year-old Bree* was jogging along a pathway in Subiaco with her headphones in when a stranger attacked her from behind, putting her in a chokehold. Her attacker was Dudley Pedersen-Sullivan, 23, who had been on a drug and alcohol-fuelled bender after getting into an argument with his girlfriend. Dudley Pedersen-Sullivan. Credit:Facebook He had just stepped off the train when he saw Bree and decided to assault her. While he strangled the woman, she tried to elbow and hit Pedersen-Sullivan as he tightened his grip around her neck. The pair fell to the ground and she began to shout, Help, Call police. Pedersen-Sullivan muffled the screams by putting his hand over her mouth. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 3, ARMENPRESS. On October 3, around 9:30 p.m., the units of the Azerbaijani armed forces, using mortars and large-caliber rifles, opened fire in the direction of the Armenian military positions located in the eastern part of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, ARMENPRESS reports the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Armenia informed. "The fire of the adversary was silenced by the retaliatory actions of the units of the Armenian Armed Forces. There are no casualties on the Armenian side," the Ministry said. There are two deals that will play a big part in the rest of the trade period, and they are linked: Luke Jackson away from Melbourne, and Brodie Grundy to Melbourne. In Mondays trade period special of the Real Footy podcast, Michael Gleeson and Jake Niall wrap the first day of action and discuss what it will take to get Grundy to the Demons, how its connected to the Jackson trade, and what Fremantle will have to give up. There was plenty of action on day one, but much of the discussion was around Jason Horne-Francis trade request to Port Adelaide. What are the reasons behind his request? What will it take to get the deal done, and what might prove to be the main hold-up? And as more and more players ask to leave their clubs after very short periods of time, which is already hard to swallow, Horne-Francis is asking to go after just one season. What does it say about player movement and the way the system works? Meanwhile, Tim Taranto has officially left the Giants for Richmond, a good deal for the Tigers. In general, Richmond are fast movers when it comes to getting deals done. We unpack why thats a smart move for all teams involved, rather than haggling over the details and getting derailed down the track. Garnaut is an Australian visionary. The one-time economic adviser to Bob Hawke wrote the 1989 report on how Australia could restructure its economy to take advantage of Chinas economic renaissance, Australia and the Northeast Asian Ascendancy. Loading And it did, generating a boon to Australias living standards that endured for 30 years. Hawke acknowledged Garnauts contribution to the vision by appointing him ambassador to Beijing. And Kevin Rudd commissioned him to write the Garnaut Climate Change Review of 2008. It formed the basis for much of Labors climate policy until that government destroyed itself through a mad outbreak of regicide. Now that Labor has returned to power, Garnauts work is again animating a federal Labor government. Anthony Albanese has adopted the superpower concept the title of Garnauts previous book into his speeches. Its no coincidence that Garnaut was the keynote dinner speaker at the governments jobs and skills summit a few weeks ago. Australias opportunity to become the superpower of the zero-carbon world is built on five endowments that it has in greater abundance than any other on earth, relative to the size of its population and economy, says Garnaut, professor emeritus at Melbourne University. Australia has a special place in the spotlight [at COP27 in Egypt next month]. Ross Garnaut First is the cheapest renewable energy in the developed world and competitively priced storage potential. Second is a huge area of land suitable for growing and harvesting biomass to replace oil, gas and coal in the chemical industries. Third is the countrys status as the worlds biggest exporter of mineral ores that need smelting iron, aluminium and silicon, for instance. The opportunity here? To exploit Australias cheap renewable energy to do the smelting of Australian ores in Australia, ready for export. This is Australias biggest single decarbonisation opportunity for the world. Specifically, for Australia to become Chinas iron ore smelter and to do it with zero emissions. Today, China produces more steel than the rest of the world put together. Its the source of 17.5 per cent of all Chinas carbon emissions, second only to the electricity sector. The RayGen Power Plant Carwarp Project in Mildura: one of many exciting renewable power initiatives coming to fruition around Australia. Credit:Eddie Jim One of the books co-authors, ANU economics professor Ligang Song, says that using Australian renewable electricity and hydrogen produced from renewables to convert [iron ore] into iron metal and steel would reduce global emissions by around 2 per cent almost twice as much as Australia eliminating its own emissions. Turning Australia into the worlds biggest smelter would help China meet its decarbonisation targets. And the zero-carbon smelting would be done mostly in rural and regional areas of Australia, according to Superpower Transformation. Of course, this presupposes a good deal of political and economic trust between Canberra and Beijing, which must count as a serious uncertainty. The fourth key Australian endowment is its reserves of critical minerals or, as Garnaut prefers, energy transition minerals essential to manufacturing the gear for the zero-carbon economy. These include silicon for solar panels and computers; a range of metals for wind turbines; and minerals for batteries and electric vehicles including cobalt, nickel, manganese, magnesium, graphite, lithium, vanadium, titanium and other rare earths. Loading Fifth is the legacy of knowledge, skills, institutions and infrastructure from the old resource industries. Garnaut doesnt pretend itll be easy. Vast investment would be needed over the next decades. Vast, but not unprecedented Australia invested a comparable sum in gearing up to supply the great China resources boom of the 2000s, he says. Rather than being irrelevant to the planets decarbonisation, Australia can be crucial: Australias success in building the superpower is important to global success. It is important to sustaining full employment with rising living standards in Australia. And it is critically important to Australian security. West Gippsland residents are likely to have a new hospital whichever party wins government, after Premier Daniel Andrews committed more than $600 million for a new facility. The West Gippsland Hospital in Warragul has capacity for almost 150 patients, and Labors proposed new hospital would have space for an additional 75 beds. The new regional hospital would include a larger emergency department, operating theatres, and a fresh public aged care facility. The build would include a new birthing unit, an acknowledgement that more than 1000 babies are born in the region each year. Labors announcement on Monday committing $610 million to $675 million for the project came after the Victorian opposition pledged $400 million in August to build a new hospital servicing West Gippsland. This Soviet cartoon depicts an Irate Uncle Sam shaking his first at Sputnik as a broken U.S. satellite lies at his feet. Credit:Soviet Kirghizia Russias superiority in rocketry means that she can with virtual impunity launch a direct attack on the United States. The United States already has lost a war which it has not yet fought. The calamity howlers cried, woe. The second type of response: The to arms response. This took the form of a demand upon the people to abandon their sinful ways and come alive to the stupendous task before them. Senator Styles Bridges (Rep., New Hampshire) put this most graphically when he said: The time has clearly come to be less concerned with the depth of the pile on the new broadloom rug, or the height of the tail fin on the new car, and to be prepared to shed blood, sweat and tears if this country and the free world are to survive. Rapid Extinction And if this sounds only like the phraseology of a politician addressing a political rally, then examine the injunction of a sober man of science Dr. Elmer Hutchinson, director of the American Institute of Physics, with a membership of 20,000. He pointed out that too much of U.S. science is being devoted to more unimportant matters, such as how to bring up children without inhibiting their individuality. Unless science is taken almost as a religion, our way of life is, I am certain, doomed to rapid extinction. Still another interesting type of reaction was the kind that sums up competition between Russia and the United States in the sentence: A democracy cannot afford to pay the price for a prestige achievement which a dictatorship is prepared to pay. The Russians may have a satellite. But such marvels do not feed, clothe or house anyone. The bulk of the Russian people are still ill-fed, ill-clothed and ill-housed. In a democracy like the United States, the people decide on the priority and allocation of resources to projects. The priority would be relatively low in the United States. Then there was the chagrin reaction: We could have launched a satellite before the Russians a better one, too, full of instruments, and not just a radio-sender. Somebody slipped up. Some bonehead in the Pentagon muffed the chance. Another Soviet cartoon shows an American rocket exploding. Credit:United Press Photo Dr. I. M. Levitt, director of the Fels Planetarium in Philadelphia (and an authority on outer space), took this line. He said that the Army could have achieved a satellite moon just like Russias by doing little more than changing the angle of fire on one of its Jupiter rockets, which reached a 15,000 miles speed and a 650-mile altitude in a test. A fifth type of reaction: Why be surprised at Russian superiority in some scientific fields? It has been known for some time that they have men in science as good as the best elsewhere, and in certain instances, even better. Much of their advance is based on accomplishments of scientists in other countries, and on the work of their scientists of the age of the Czars. America is still superior in science as a whole. The foregoing line of reasoning led into something even stronger at reassurance. Reports began to circulate that soon the United States will launch devices that (in comparison to the Russian satellite) will be like a pearl to a pea. The most startling of these will be an alleged rocket train, launched 240,000 miles to the moon from a 100,000ft high balloon. This rocket train will have every conceivable kind of recording equipment, including a television camera to send back pictures of the far side of the moon, the side not yet seen by human eyes. A type of reaction worth identification, perhaps because of its negative rather than positive character, is the one which makes much of the propaganda value of the satellite to Russia. The Russians now will have demonstrated to the uncommitted peoples of the world that the Communist system is the better one for achievement. America will lose friends. More of the worlds peoples will be crowding to get into the Russian camp. All that America has done and spent to bring these to adhere to the West will have been in vain. It is a great loss. Loading Those who seem most troubled by this loss do not appear to realise that those of the uncommitted peoples who see in the satellite a reason for committing themselves to Russia could not really be of much value to the West. Washington: The nations top court on Monday said it will hear a case that tests the limits of Section 230, the US legal provision that protects social media companies from liability for what third parties post to their sites. The Supreme Courts decision in the case, which involves Googles alleged responsibility for terrorist propaganda on its subsidiary YouTube, could have long-lasting ramifications for how internet sites treat users posts. Reynaldo Gonzalez breaks down while remembering his daughter Nohemi Gonzalez, Paris attack victim, at her funeral in Downey, California in 2015. Credit:AP The case was brought by the family of Nohemi Gonzalez, a 23-year-old student who was killed in a 2015 ISIS terrorist attack in Paris. The suit alleges that Googles YouTube aided and abetted ISIS, in part by allowing its algorithms to recommend video content from the terrorist group. Section 230 was passed in 1996 and is credited with helping lay the groundwork for the internet as we now know it. It broadly immunises websites and online platforms, including social media sites like YouTube, Facebook and Twitter, from being held responsible in civil lawsuits for what their users post. You can't blame Amir Arison for being a little nervous. This summer, it was announced that he was leaving his longtime TV home, the NBC show The Black List, having landed the role of a lifetime on Broadway. But the leading role in The Kite Runner at the Helen Hayes Theater is no walk in the park, onstage for pretty much the entire two-and-a-half hour show, narrating the Khaled Hosseini adaptation with huge, lengthy monologues, and playing a character who does a bad thing and spends the rest of his life regretting his actions. But with nerves comes rewards, and Arison, now coming towards the end of the show's run, looks at it as one of the great honors of his life. Here, he tells us why. Amir Arison in The Kite Runner on Broadway at the Helen Hayes Theater ( Joan Marcus) Your character is a difficult one: he does something bad to someone who is unwaveringly devoted to him, and yet he also must have the audience on his side for the entire time as the narrator. What was your way into it, and how has that shifted over the course of rehearsals to now months into the run? That was a hurdle I immediately sensed when I first got the audition. It wasn't until the callback where I was able to fully find my way in, and the way in was love. The character, Amir, is not a sociopath. He is full of shame and guilt. He loves Hassan, but only understands that love as an adult after he has matured with time; he has been humbled through war, immigration, and poverty. He has so much love inside of him, but he doesn't know how to channel it. He is a motherless child, and an only child to a stern father who doesn't show love or affection in the way he yearns for it. When he doesn't save Hassan, he doesn't know he was at a crossroads in his life and his nature is not courageous. Further, he was born into great privilege, being taught that Hassan is his servant and a second class citizen. Only as an adult does he realize the inherent racism and class system he was participating in, but as a kid, he didn't give it thought. When I did my own table read with a few friends before rehearsals started, I realized that the narrative monologues are where his bravery lies. In these monologues, he is admitting his faults, flaws, and shame. He is trying to seek redemption and doesn't know how to undo seemingly unforgivable mistakes. But in these monologues, he is actually taking the first step to forgiveness: admission of guilt. When someone tells him "there is a way to be good again," he accepts. That is actually how the play starts. He then charts his memories for the audience, asking them to understand his choices, even though they are shameful. That is the way to accept himself, and the way I approach bringing the audience with me on that journey. Why did you decide to leave The Blacklist specifically to do The Kite Runner? Was there a specific turning point in your life or in the play itself that led you to it? Technically I booked The Kite Runner before The Blacklist had been renewed. When The Blacklist came back for another season, I had already accepted that I was going to take on this new theatrical challenge. Another dream come true, Broadway, and in a role with my name. I had to take it. It was not without some trepidation because The Blacklist has been my family for nine seasons. But they were so supportive. I'll just say that Aram from The Blacklist is still alive and the door is open for a potential visit in season 10. I couldn't have scripted it better. A scene from the Broadway production of The Kite Runner ( Joan Marcus) How do you connect to this role, to this story, even though you are not Afghan yourself? Do you see parallels in the lives of your familial elders? I feel so many intersections and micro human moments throughout. Seeking his father's approval is an enormous engine for the character of Amir, and it's one that I still unconsciously seek to this day. My dad was hesitant about me becoming an actor and did not want me to go to acting school. My dad thought I could go to medical school and become a doctor. Baba doesn't want Amir to study creative writing, he wants him to go to medical school or law school. The echoes are uncanny. And to this day, there is nothing better than getting a role and sharing the news with my father. Him coming to opening night and giving me a big thumbs up after the curtain call was one of the greatest moments of my life. They are the most supportive parents in the world and they love that I followed my dreams. In terms of Afghanistan, I recognize the enormous responsibility and did as much research and preparation as possible with accent, language, and culture. Humaira Ghilzai is our cultural consultant and a long-time friend, and her love and support and guidance were invaluable. My grandparents were Holocaust survivors who lost everything, including their entire families. They started over with nothing. I think of them every time Baba and I immigrate to America at the beginning of act two with nothing but two suitcases. I am flooded with gratitude at the sacrifices they made and all they had to endure. When I was a kid growing up in Florida, I sometimes would be embarrassed at my name because kids didn't think I was American and I would mispronounce certain words like my parents did with their accents. I wanted to fit in. The character of Amir only wants to speak English in America and ignore his past. Only as I got older did I begin to understand the profound value of my parents' and grandparents' journeys that have allowed me this freedom and opportunity. The character of Amir has a very similar awakening in the second act. What does it mean to make your Broadway debut in The Kite Runner? I couldn't have asked for a better, more challenging role, and timely story for both America and Afghanistan. Our producers hit the zeitgeist. People always ask me if I'm totally drained after the show. My body is very tired, but my soul feels rejuvenated. A cleanse, a sense of having done something. Also, I've learned how connected the Broadway community is. We see each other's shows, send each other notes, and participate in campaigns as one. I'm hooked. What's the most impactful thing you've heard from an audience member over the course of this run? I've met so many wonderful people, and some begin to cry when we come out the stage door and we hug and share a moment. And there is no better feeling/feedback than when you meet Afghans after the play thanking us and crying and sharing personal stories and sometimes they even speak Dari to me, which I take as the highest compliment of all. I just met a young gentleman, a Hazara Afghan who sought asylum, became a citizen, and is now at West Point. He thanked me, loved the story, and said he is proud to serve both countries. I feel like that is what we are doing in this play. We are serving both countries. It has been one of the great honors of my lifetime. Perhaps in response to the dearth of intelligent conservatives in public life, the theater is conjuring one in the form of the late National Review editor and television personality William F. Buckley Jr. In London, there's Best of Enemies, which dramatizes the skirmishes between Buckley and Gore Vidal (and seems destined to cross the pond). In New York, there's Elevator Repair Service's Baldwin and Buckley at Cambridge at the Public Theater, which recreates the 1965 Cambridge Union debate between Buckley and author James Baldwin on the question, "Has the American Dream been achieved at the expense of the American Negro?" ERS is not the only company presently mining this Everest of rhetoric (watchable on YouTube) for dramatic ore. The American Vicarious mounted their version in March and are now embarking on a five-borough tour. Meanwhile, ERS has moved into the Public's Anspacher Theater (which suitably plays the role of the Cambridge debate hall) with a staging that is both more artistically daring and less dramatically satisfying. Gavin Price plays David Heycock in Baldwin and Buckley at Cambridge, directed by John Collins, for Elevator Repair Service at the Public Theater. ( Joan Marcus) Under the direction of John Collins, the company's determination to make past bleed into present is established from the outset, when David Heycock (Gavin Price playing the undergraduate selected to debate in favor of the motion) acknowledges that the theater is situated on the original homeland of the Lenape people (he does not say when the Public intends to return this valuable piece of real estate). From there, he delivers a faithful version of Heycock's opening argument (albeit with more vitality) before ceding the floor to his opponent, Jeremy Burford (Christopher-Rashee Stevenson, slathering on the smarm and unnecessarily holding his argument at arm's length). This is all just primer for the main event. That begins when James Baldwin (a dour Greig Sargeant, who conceived this project) takes the lectern to explain what it is like to live as a Black man under the hegemony of white supremacy, and to recount how the forced labor of Black people was instrumental in building the most prosperous nation on Earth. He also provides a stern prophecy concerning the American Dream: "The people who are denied participation in it, by their very presence, will wreck it. And if that happens it's a very grave moment for the West." One of the frustrating things about this debate is that Buckley refuses to address Baldwin's actual argument, which is fundamentally liberal, at least within the hall (anarchists, as a rule, are not so concerned with the preservation of the West). Rather, he uses his time to joust with a straw man the notion that Baldwin would like to drive a bulldozer over the whole American experiment, which he sees as irredeemably rooted in racism. It's almost as if he is experiencing premonitions of Ibram X. Kendi (Baldwin's unworthy successor) and choosing to debate with him instead. Ben Jalosa Williams plays William F. Buckley, Jr. in Baldwin and Buckley at Cambridge, directed by John Collins, for Elevator Repair Service at the Public Theater. ( Joan Marcus) Ben Jalosa Williams (who also designed the sound) portrays a Buckley that is more handsome and charismatic than the actual man ever was. Speaking the arch-conservative's words in a baseline American dialect (rather than Buckley's outsize mid-Atlantic) he seems reasonable, passionate, and without the simmering resentment that so often underscored Buckley's discourse. He is utterly charming. He momentarily drops the veneer when he is interrupted by a heckler who calls out the disenfranchisement of Black voters in Mississippi. Unable to resist, Buckley uses this opportunity to argue that the problem in Mississippi isn't that too few Black people vote, but that too many white ones do. Williams accompanies this pre-Enlightenment indulgence with a physical and vocal transformation, his arm akimbo against a haughtily erect back, his eyebrows arching like Faye Dunaway at the MAC counter. Suddenly, the nasal purr of William F. Buckley rings in our ears. But like the werewolf returning to his human form, this fades away as quickly as it came and we are left with a Buckley who is uncomfortably persuasive for the good liberal public at the Public. But does it matter that the onstage Buckley is the better debater when we already know that he is on the wrong side of history? In this case, yes. Sargeant's performance is so relentlessly whiny and overwrought that it's hard to recognize much of Baldwin, even when the actor is speaking his words verbatim. Costume designer Jessica Jahn accentuates the demeanors of the two actors, putting Sargeant in a dark suit and shirt buttoned up to his neck (no tie). In contrast, Williams wears a well-tailored blue suit with open collar (wisely, Jahn has jettisoned the black-tie getup Buckley actually wore). Without the benefit of hindsight, one could be forgiven for assuming that Buckley emerges triumphant. Elevator Repair Service may be conducting an experiment pitting style against substance, in which case the former distressingly wins. Greig Sargeant plays James Baldwin, and Daphne Gaines plays Lorraine Hansberry in Baldwin and Buckley at Cambridge, directed by John Collins, for Elevator Repair Service at the Public Theater. ( Joan Marcus) A final scene that imagines an exchange between Baldwin and the playwright Lorraine Hansberry (Daphne Gaines, in a nice tie-in with the Public's current revival of A Raisin in the Sun) is underdeveloped and devolves into ERS acknowledging its own history of racism, specifically the casting of white actors to play Black roles in early iterations of The Sound and the Fury. This act of confession compounds with artistic director Oskar Eustis's program note ("I have been feeling a need for the Bible of James Baldwin") to reveal a theater that has become distinctly more religious in recent years to its detriment. Baldwin and Buckley at Cambridge at least avoids the trap of preaching to the choir, giving Buckley's argument its full hearing in its very best form. Still, one suspects that ERS is only doing it so we can learn to recognize the honeyed tongue of the devil. On October 2, Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan and Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov met in Geneva. October 3, 2022, 09:23 During the Mirzoyan-Bayramov meeting the establishment of a discussion mechanism between Stepanakert and Baku was discussed STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: Ararat Mirzoyan reiterated the position of the Armenian side on the withdrawal of Azerbaijani troops from the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia and the immediate release of all Armenian prisoners of war. The importance of introducing international mechanisms for border situation control was highlighted. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia emphasised that the war crimes committed by the Azerbaijani armed forces should receive a clear assessment by international bodies, and the criminals should be brought to justice. The sides exchanged views on the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, ensuring the rights and security guarantees for the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh, including through the establishment of a discussion mechanism between Stepanakert and Baku. Armenia demands a clear assessment of the appalling war crimes committed by the Azerbaijani military, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Sunday. October 3, 2022, 11:50 Armenia demands clear assessment of Azerbaijan's appalling war crimes STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: Numerous videos regularly circulated by Azerbaijani users on social media demonstrate the war crimes, extrajudicial killings of Armenian prisoners of war, torture of Armenian servicemen, including women, and desecration of bodies committed by the Azerbaijani armed forces, the ministry said. The Republic of Armenia demands a clear assessment of the appalling war crimes committed by the Azerbaijani armed forces in this and previous periods. We will consistently pursue to voice the issue in relevant international platforms and courts and bring to justice the perpetrators and organizers of the above-mentioned crimes, including by the application of international sanctions. In this context, a due international investigation is imperative. At the same time, the international community must step up pressure on Azerbaijan for the immediate repatriation of all Armenian prisoners of war and civilians illegally held in Azerbaijan, clarification of cases of enforced disappearances, and the fates of the missing persons, reads the statement. Anton Gomez-Reino, a member of the Congress of Deputies of Spain, has considered the killing of Armenian prisoners of war (POWs) by the armed forces of Azerbaijan unacceptable. October 3, 2022, 10:32 Spain lawmaker: Savage images of Azerbaijani soldiers shooting Armenian POWs to death are unacceptable STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: "The savage images of Azerbaijani soldiers shooting Armenian prisoners of war to death are unacceptable. It is doubly intolerable to perversely use the political position that your [natural] gas gives you (in times of world hunger) to carry out invasions and violate human rights," the aforesaid Spanish lawmaker wrote on Twitter, news.am informs. A video was disseminated on the Azerbaijani Telegram channels, in which it is seen how the Azerbaijani servicemen brutally shoot the Armenian POWs to death. News Updates Would you like to receive our newsletter? Get local, Wyoming, and national news, the weather forecast, and more, delivered to your inbox every weekday morning. Wyoming has dedicated $9.8 million of federal funding to help eligible entities build up the health care infrastructure and address historical inequities in their communities. The funding is part of Wyomings $38.8 million allocation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for its COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant. The Align Team manages this portion of the COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant for the Wyoming Department of Health. The funds are distributed among seven programs, which provide reimbursable grants to eligible entities. No matches are required. Applications will be accepted until April 2023. Learn more and apply at https://thealignteam.force.com/fundingprograms/s/ The eligibility for each program is different. Each program has allocated a percentage of funding specifically for rural communities. (i.e., not Cheyenne or Casper). Seven Programs Improve Testing and Vaccination Site Accessibility Program This program seeks to improve the physical and informational accessibility of testing and vaccination sites, primarily for individuals with mobility impairments or disabilities. TOTAL AMOUNT: $844,175 allocated (minimum 70% to be disbursed in rural communities) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES: Wyoming COVID-19 testing and vaccination sites Enhanced Access to Testing, Vaccination, and Mitigation in Shelter Settings Program This program allows shelters to make facility/infrastructure enhancements that further mitigate the spread of COVID-19 or other infectious diseases, increase testing, vaccination, and other COVID-19 information and access, and support basic needs of individuals served. TOTAL AMOUNT: $715,275 allocated (minimum 70% to be disbursed in rural communities) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES: Wyoming shelters serving unhoused populations or people/families experiencing domestic violence Improving Infrastructure and Built Environments for COVID-19 Prevention and Mitigation Program This program supports infrastructure and built environment improvements across sectors to further COVID-19 prevention and mitigation strategies. TOTAL AMOUNT: $2,785,275 allocated (minimum 80% to be disbursed in rural communities) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES: Wyoming businesses, child and youth-serving organizations, public and private educational institutions, senior centers, faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, and correctional facilities (state and local). Hospital and Healthcare Systems Preparedness and Infrastructure Program This program strengthens rural healthcare infrastructure, supports future preparedness planning, and provides for testing and COVID-19 mitigation strategies for rural hospitals that are not otherwise covered for said activities under the American Rescue Plan Small Rural Hospital Improvement Grant Program federal funds for small rural hospitals (less than 50 beds). TOTAL AMOUNT: $1,865,275 allocated (minimum 80% to be disbursed in rural communities) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES: Wyoming healthcare systems, federally qualified health centers, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care facilities, emergency medical services, critical access hospitals, and rural hospitals with more than 50 beds. Provider Recruitment and Retention in Select High-Need Counties Program This program supports provider recruitment efforts by providing grants to eligible healthcare systems for recruitment and retention costs. TOTAL AMOUNT: $945,275 allocated (minimum 60% to be disbursed in rural communities) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES: The following entities must be located in Albany, Laramie or Sweetwater counties to be eligible for funding: healthcare systems, federally qualified health centers, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care facilities, emergency medical service, rural health clinics, rural hospitals and community mental health centers. Addressing Basic Needs and Social Determinants of Health Program This program supports communities in meeting individuals and families basic needs and addresses social determinants of health needs. TOTAL AMOUNT: $1,865,275 allocated (minimum 80% to be disbursed in rural communities) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES: Wyoming child and youth-serving organizations, public and private educational institutions, senior centers, faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, minority-serving organizations, veteran-serving organizations, advocacy organizations, and social service providers. Improve Transportation Access Grant Program This program expands accessibility and availability of public transportation to help underserved populations get to medical appointments, access COVID-19 testing and vaccination, and improve access to other needs, such as groceries and community amenities. RTHK: Russian parliament backs Putin's annexation bill Russian lawmakers on Monday voted unanimously in favour of legislation to annex four regions of Ukraine, rubber stamping a move that escalates the conflict and was already approved by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Members of the Kremlin-loyal lower house of parliament, the State Duma, all voted to incorporate Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia with no abstentions or votes against the annexation, its website showed. Putin last Friday presided over a grand ceremony at the Kremlin during which he signed agreements with the Moscow-installed leaders of the four regions to become subjects of the Russian Federation. Ukraine responded by officially lodging an application with the US-led military alliance Nato for membership and said it would never negotiate with Russia as long as Putin was in power. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, addressing parliament, appealed to lawmakers to back the bill to defend Russian language, culture and borders. "We are not responding to imaginary threats, we are defending our borders, our Motherland and our people," he said. He also claimed the United States had rallied all Western countries against Moscow to buttress Kyiv. "The United States subjugated almost the entire collective West, mobilising it to turn Ukraine into an instrument for war with Russia". The four territories create a crucial land corridor between Russia and the Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014. Together, the five regions make up around 20 percent of Ukraine. But Russian forces do not have complete control over Kherson or Zaporizhzhia and the Kremlin has not yet confirmed what areas of those regions are being annexed. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2022-10-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. By Azernews By Ayya Lmahamad The inauguration of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria is a game changer, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, Azernews reports. She stated that Europe has everything it needs to break free from Russian fossil fuels. "Europe has everything it needs to break free from Russian fossil fuels. The inauguration of the Bulgaria-Greece interconnector is a game changer. Together, lets shape a strong and resilient energy Union," she tweeted. The IGB gas pipeline is designed to connect the Greek national gas transmission system (DESFA S.A.) and the Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline (TAP AG) in the area of Komotini (Greece), and with the Bulgarian gas transmission system (Bulgartransgaz EAD) in the area of Stara Zagora. The total length of the gas pipeline is 182 km, the diameter of the pipe is 32'', and a design capacity of up to 3 billion m3/year in the direction of Greece-Bulgaria. The pipeline is designed to increase its capacity up to 5 bcm/y depending on market interest and the capacities of neighboring gas transmission systems. The opening ceremony of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria was held in Komotini on July 8, while a ceremony to inaugurate the (IGB) was held in Bulgaria on October 1. Azerbaijan refuses to fulfill its promise to release Armenian prisoners of war for already the second time, Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan said. October 3, 2022, 11:54 Azerbaijan refuses to fulfill its promise to release Armenian POWs for already the second time PM Pashinyan STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: This is already the second time when Azerbaijan refuses to fulfill its promise to release Armenian POWs. The first case was in May, when a promise was made in Brussels, and the second time is now, when in Washington Azerbaijan committed to release 17 Armenian POWs until 9/30, the PM said on Twitter. Venezuelan migrants gesture as they reach the U.S. border fence to turn themselves in to the U.S. Border Patrol after crossing the Rio Grande from Mexico in El Paso, Texas on Sept. 22, 2022. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) 3 More Counties Want Texas to Declare Invasion at Southern Border; Total at 32 Three more counties are the latest to express support for Texas declaring an invasion at the southern border, bringing the total to 32. The judge and county commissioners of Ector County, in the Permian Basin, signed a Declaration of Local State of Disaster on Sept. 27 stating the health, safety, and welfare of Ector County residents are under an imminent threat of disaster from the unprecedented levels of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling coming across the U.S. border from Mexico. The declaration states that the sophisticated human smuggling and drug trafficking organizations that facilitate these criminal acts are spearheaded by violent international drug cartels who have operational control over our unsecured U.S./Mexico border. The crisis at the border is not acceptable, and has resulted in a security threat and humanitarian disaster with overwhelming consequences to the residents of Ector County and Texans, they argue. Ector County Commissioner Mike Gardner told The Center Square that even in Odessa, Texas, residents are seeing busloads of illegal aliens coming through every day. The countys law enforcement and judicial system is already up against the wall and short-handed, he said, with not enough staff to handle the crime stemming from the border. We have enough issues in our county without the burden of this coming through. We need help from the state to fight the amount of drugs and people coming through. The declaration only lasts for seven days and will continue for a longer period if the commissioners renew it. Lavaca County Judge Mark Myers signed a declaration of local disaster that remains in effect until terminated by the County Judge. It states the the health, safety, and welfare of Lavaca County residents is under an imminent threat of disaster from the unprecedented levels of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling coming across the U.S. border from Mexico. Judge Myers cites recent CBP data that shows that more than 5 million people have been apprehended or evaded apprehension at the southern border since January 2021, including dozens on the terrorist watch list. The unprecedented amount of human trafficking, combined with the smuggling of fentanyl and other opioids infiltrating our border, being spearheaded by violent international drug cartels has created a security threat and humanitarian disaster with overwhelming consequences to the residents of Lavaca County and Texas, necessitating him declaring a disaster, he said. His declaration states these and other factors constitute among other things an invasion of Lavaca County, as the term used in Article 4, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution and Article 4, Section 7 of the Texas Constitution. Myers also requested the governor of Texas declare the existence of an invasion on its border with Mexico and take necessary actions to preserve and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Texas. Citing clauses of the U.S. Constitution and Texas Constitution, he called on the governor to immediately prevent and/or remove all persons invading the sovereignty of Texas and that of the United States. Hamilton County Judge Mark Tynes signed a resolution calling for additional measures to secure the border, stop the invasion at the border and protect our communities. He also cited Article 4, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution and Article 4, Section 7 of the Texas Constitution granting the governor authority to secure the Texas border from cartels who are acting as paramilitary, narco-terrorist organizations that profit from trafficking people and drugs into the United States. The resolution also states that Hamilton County Commissioners Court recognizes our southern border is under invasion, and recognizes and affirms the sovereignty and unilateral authority explicitly reserved to the states, respectively, under Article 1, Section 10 of the United States Constitution and Article IV, Section 7 of the Texas Constitution to defend themselves against invasion, which has been exacerbated by the Federal Governments failure in meeting its constitutional obligation to insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, execute the laws, and protect each state against invasion. Hamilton County expressed support for Texas border security efforts through Operation Lone Star and expanded operation authorities and requests Governor Abbott to take the necessary steps as allowed under aforementioned U.S. and Texas constitutions. So far, judges and commissioners whove signed resolutions in support of Texas declaring an invasion represent the counties of Atascosa, Burnet, Chambers, Clay, Ector, Edwards, Ellis, Goliad, Hamilton, Hardin, Hood, Hunt, Jack, Jasper, Johnson, Kinney, Lavaca, Liberty, Live Oak, Madison, Montague, Orange, Parker, Presidio, Terrell, Throckmorton, Tyler, Van Zandt, Wharton, Wichita, Wilson, and Wise. While the judges of Jeff Davis and Rockwall counties expressed support for declaring an invasion, their county commissioners didnt sign resolutions. Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin is the only mayor in Texas or the U.S. to declare an invasion. A majority of Americans recently polled say the U.S. is being invaded at the southern border. They did so as the number of illegal foreign nationals being apprehended or evading capture at the southern border since January 2021 total more than the individual populations of 25 states. By Bethany Blankley 90-Year-Old Cardinal in Dock As Dark Awaits Dawn The nonagenarian Cardinal Zen, Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, belonging to the very highest echelon of the Roman Catholic Church, who was arrested by the Hong Kong government (HKgov), stood in the dock on Sept. 26. The silence of the Holy See has been criticized both inside and outside the Catholic Church, and has also sparked heated discussions on Sino-Vatican relations. Some commentators think that Zen was abandoned by the Pope; Some people think that as the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) saw the current weakness of the Vatican, it did not shy away from arresting Zen in a high-profile manner. In fact, both the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong and the Pope held back from criticising the CCP regarding the incident. As one of the trustees of the 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund in Hong Kong, Cardinal Zen, who was accused of conspiring to collude with a foreign country or foreign force, was arrested for allegedly violating the Hong Kong National Security Law, by the National Security Department of the Hong Kong Police Force. This is the first time that a current cardinal has been arrested under the CCP. Zen presided over mass on May 28 following his arrest in May and told the congregation that his arrest was just another experience for him and said, Martyrdom is normal in our Church. Zen Experienced the Hardships of the Church in China Zen is a politically exposed person because of his long history of resistance to the CCP. Zen was born in Shanghai and moved to Hong Kong to study theology in 1948. Later, he trained in Rome, where he was ordained in 1961. After obtaining his PhD at the Salesians University in Rome in 1964, Father Zen then served as a professor of theology at Catholic seminaries in Hong Kong in 1971. From 1978 to 1983 he was Provincial Superior of Salesians covering Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and China. From 1989 to 1996, Zen returned to the mainland to teach in government-sanctioned seminars for six months every year, in seven different dioceses including Shanghai, Xian, Wuhan, Shijiazhuang (Hebei), Shenyang, and Zhejiang Province, as well as the National Seminary in Beijing. During my seven years of teaching in China, I tried my best to follow the rules and never publicly condemned the undesirable conditions at the time. I needed to remain silent because I didnt want to sacrifice this opportunity to educate young Chinese seminary students. During this period, my most important responsibility is to find out, observe, and understand the realities of the times. The CCP strictly controls religious freedom, and its religious persecution is pervasive and widespread. According to a 2020 report by the human rights group Freedom House, in China, all leading religious groups activities are tightly circumscribed, and they must accept the CCPs leadership as a condition for their existence. China ensures state-sanctioned ideology by controlling all religious practices and beliefs. Therefore, people who do not recognize the government-approved bishops set up underground churches, and today an estimated 12 million Catholics in China are split between a state-sanctioned church and an underground church that rejects government ties and answers only to Rome. During his seven-year of experience in China, he profoundly felt the plight of the mainland churches. Since then, he has actively opposed the totalitarianism of the CCP and fought for religious freedom for the 12 million mainland Catholics. Zen Rejects CCPs Deprivation of Freedom of Hongkongers In 1997, Hong Kongs sovereignty was handed over to China and CCP slowly began trying to restrict Hong Kongers liberties. Since then, Zen, who is outspoken, chose what is good and held fast to it. He is committed to Hongkongers freedom and over the years he has repeatedly voiced high-profile support for social events and criticized certain decisions of the Hong Kong government, including the 2001 right of abode dispute. In the dispute, children born to mainland parents in Hong Kong were defined as having no right of abode in Hong Kong. While they were fighting for the right of abode through legal channels, HKgov stated that the children were not allowed to go to school before the judgment. Zen, as an assistant bishop of Hong Kong, publicly called on Catholic schools to take in the children who were banned from going to school without residency rights. He was warned by the HKgov that he may have broken the law. In 2002, Zen was made bishop of Hong Kong and he resigned in 2009. He was created a Cardinal in 2006. In 2011, Zen opposed the governments imposition of the Education (Amendment) Ordinance regarding school-based management policy, believing that it would weaken the autonomy of sponsoring bodies, and sued the government for this. After losing the lawsuit, he fasted for three days to express his grief. In 2006, Zen strongly criticized the Beijing government for banning Falun Gong, a private practice group, and accusing them of attempting to subvert China. If youre going to speak for the vulnerable, those who dont have the opportunity to speak publicly, you have to speak louder, otherwise the public wont hear you, he said. He also supported the Occupy protests in 2014 to fight for universal suffrage election for Hong Kongs chief executive. Without democracy, there is no freedom, and people without freedom are like slaves, he said, Without democracy, there wont be religious freedom. After the Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill Movement in 2019, the CCPs intention to suppress Hongkongers was revealed. In an exclusive interview with the Epoch Times in December 2019, Zen described the situation as a war, Because what we are facing is a totalitarian statethe CCP. So it is more than just facing the HKgov which may only be just a puppet; but the HKgov, which has gone even further than the central governments will, did not want to give Hong Kong true democracy, and even deprive citizens of their freedom of speech by amending the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance. Zen said bluntly at the time that if Hongkongers were deprived of all their freedoms, Hong Kong would become the same as other cities in China. We all know what happened there [China]. Maybe they have reached a certain level of prosperity now. Maybe it lifted many people out of poverty, but the moral decay of the entire country still happens. It is absolute slavery. We also know how the persecution of the Catholic Church in China is getting worse. In 2020, bypassing the Hong Kong legislature, the CCP pushed the National Security Law. Zen publicly opposed the legislation, particularly the offenses of endangering national security, which was vaguely defined. After Cardinal Zen was arrested, Catholic Hong Kong Diocese Waited a Day Before they Responded After the Second World War, there were very few cases of cardinals being arrested, but before the totalitarian CCP, the official Catholic response was hesitant. After Zen was arrested, the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong issued a press release of about 120 words in response the next day, saying that they were extremely concerned about Zens situation and safety, and urged the police and judicial authorities to respond in a reasonable manner. Principles of justice should be applied to deal with the incident, and further said the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong fervently prays for the cardinal. The Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong drew criticism from believers and netizens at the time, saying, Thank you for the dioceses continued disappointment in the past and now. I learned that the diocese and the faith can actually be separated, and only today can I be free from the actions of the diocese which affect my faith, This statement is more useless than prayer and so on. Pope Refuses to Comment on the Incident or Democracy in China The response from the Vatican and even the Pope has also drawn criticism. The Vatican officials have not expressed their support for Zen so far. When Pope Francis was asked about the incident earlier, he pointed out that Zen clearly had some limitations in expressing his own thoughts; However, the Pope could not make his judgment and said there were lots of perspectives on this issue and he always advocates communication. Francis also pointed out that he has no right to comment on whether mainland China (the CCP) is democratic or anti-democratic, because this is a complex country, but there are some things that we think are undemocratic. German Cardinal: We Abandoned Him The Vaticans failure to support Zen drew criticism from German Catholic Cardinal Gerhard Muller, who said we have abandoned him. Cardinal Zen was absent in Rome because he is under house arrest for raising his voice against Beijing, defending human rights both in Hong Kong and China, said Cardinal Muller. Cardinal Mueller continued that the Holy See gave up helping Zen due to the issue of bishop appointments in China and the agreement signed with the CCP. He bluntly stated that the agreement did not serve the interests of the Holy See. In an interview in May 2022, Wong Wai-kwok, a former assistant professor of politics and international relations at Baptist University of Hong Kong, pointed out that the Holy See has always been weak to the CCP, and some leaders of the Holy See even delusionally want to develop Catholicism in China as a solution to the declining number of believers around the world. The CCP sees the weakness of the Vatican, so it does not shy away from arresting Zen in a high-profile manner. To a certain extent, this is caused by the incompetence and ignorance of the Vatican. Zen Criticizes the Holy See Agreement With China, As Dancing with the Devil Although the Vaticans Secretary of State Pietro Parolin said in May 2022 that he was very upset about Zens arrest, he was the one who was accused by Zen of controlling the Pope and promoting the compromising policy of the provisional agreement on the bishop appointment. On Sept. 22, 2018, the CCP and the Vatican secretly signed a two-year provisional agreement on the bishops appointment and established a formal dialogue between the two parties. The details of the agreement have been kept secret, but the outside world generally knows that it is to cooperate with the CCP on the appointment of bishops in mainland China. The agreement came into effect on Oct. 22, 2018, and was valid for two years. Secret talks between the Vatican delegation and Chinese authorities took place in Tianjin. Italys AsiaNews reported that the Vatican delegation visited the 92-year-old Bishop of Tianjin, Shi Hongzhen, who has been under house arrest for a long time for his refusal to join the official church (Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association) recognized by the CCP. At that time, Zen also pointed out that in the two years since the agreement was reached, the CCPs persecution of believers has intensified, including the elimination of underground churches, and the prohibition of minors under the age of 18 from entering churches and participating in religious activities. The so-called Sinicization of Catholicism has turned Catholicism into the religion of the Communist Party, with the state and the Party as the leader. On Oct. 22, 2020, China and the Vatican renewed the provisional agreement and decided to extend the validity period for two more years. The agreement allows the Pope to have the final say on bishops appointed by China, and the Chinese government allows all bishops, including those of the official Church, to recognize the authority of the Vatican and the Pope. On the eve of the renewal, during the prime of the CCP virus epidemic, Zen went to the Vatican alone on Sept. 23, 2020, to ask to see the Pope, but he waited for four days to no avail. Zen criticized the idea of the Holy See renewing the bishop appointment agreement with the CCP as crazy, like dancing with the devil. Many Italian media also spoke for him. Zen Publicly Accused Parolin of Being a Shameless and Daring Liar When the Vatican renewed the agreement with China in 2020, Parolin declared that the agreement helps normalize the life of the Catholic believers and Church in China, and clarified that he refused to interpret the agreement in a political light, and said that Chinas human rights and religious freedom issues could not be dealt with in haste. Zen publicly accused Parolin at the time, It is not for faith at all, but maybe just for vanity. I dont know if there are other secret deals with the CCP, I dont know about this. and I dare not speak about it, and said Parolin defended the agreement even though he knew about the false statements in the agreement, saying it was already approved by the former Pope Benedict XVI, that is disgusting. Zen called him a liar, not just shameless but also daring. Now is the eve of the renewal of the Sino-Vatican Bishops Agreement. In an exclusive interview with Reuters on July 5, 2022, the Pope said he hoped to renew the provisional agreement in October, saying that the agreement was well implemented, and he described it as a diplomatic achievement. In an interview on Sept. 16, Parolin pointed out that the Holy See was ready to move the Hong Kong office to Beijing. Dr. Frank Tian Xie, an expert on China issues and a tenured professor at the University of South Carolina Aiken, believes that the Holy See is further trying to curry favor with the CCP. it is a prelude to the complete annihilation of the last free beliefs that Hong Kong people still enjoy, he said. After Zen was arrested and released on bail in May 2022, he presided over a mass prayer for the Chinese church, saying that after the Holy See and the CCP signed an agreement on the appointment of bishops, it may appear that the Chinese church has made progress. All bishops in China have been recognized by the Pope. Bishops also recognize the Pope. But he described the agreement as The church has been unwise in certain areas although it may have good intentions. He believes that it is not quite ready yet for the unity between the underground Church and the Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association, and he could not see the unity in truth between the Chinese churches and the Pope. He also encouraged believers to continue to be faithful under the test of endurance and described it as the dark awaiting the dawn. Fulfilling the religion of filmmaking Art is powerful. It can make both true and false imaginings seem real. Both Uncle Toms Cabin and the Communist Manifesto changed the worldin opposite ways; art without goodness is dangerous. For 70 years the Holocaust has commanded our most serious attention. Hitlers concentration camps have stood for the greatest of human depravities. They force us to confront the most serious questions human consciousness ever must address: Is there justice? Why do the innocent suffer? What is the nature of evil? Does God exist? Since this can happen, whatreallyare we? Then along came Roberto Benigni with a sweet little movie about a fathers imaginative and self-sacrificial love for his son. So great is that love, says the film, that it can save his son from the Holocaustnot only from death, but from all effects of suffering and evil. The boy will grow up grateful to his father for having preserved his innocence from taint and him from pain. The trouble is that the film also cuddles us with unreality. No need to ask why man is capable of such evil. What evil? No need to ask why innocents must undergo such terrible suffering. What suffering? Before the happy family is taken to the camp. (LR) Guido (Roberto Benigni), Dora (Nicoletta Braschi), and Giosue (Giorgio Cantarini), in Life is Beautiful. (Melampo Cinematografica) A Powerful Lie The true objection to the Life Is Beautiful (1997) is not that it is not powerful. It is. Not that life is not beautiful. It is, if you do not find yourself in a concentration camp. Or perhaps, if you are a saint, even if you do. The real objection to the film is that it lies about the concentration camps in order to justify its fantasy about life. It abolishes real suffering to enforce the false idea that the innocent child can be saved by a big dose of self-sacrificial parental love. Inventive, self-sacrificial love is good. Trying to save your son from evil and suffering is good. And goodness can transform even ugly aspects of life into beauty. But the film is a big fat lie. In the reality of Hitlers concentration camps, neither the boys innocence nor his life could possibly have been saved; he would have been dehumanized, starved, and murdered within days. The films parable would be less offensive if what tested the fathers love were as symbolic as the fantasy means he uses to pass the test. Instead, the director has combined two incompatible forms of arta true historical horror, in which no amount of love or sacrifice could have guaranteed the preservation of either innocence or survival, and a fairytale happy ending. I do not object to either form of artrealism or fable. But their combination in this film is a corruption of both. The film uses an unrealistic concentration camp as a generic background of danger and stupidity against which to depict the fantasy triumph of love and self-sacrifice. In reducing that background to a mere cipher in its parable, the film compromises the horror of what, in real life, love sometimes has to overcome. As such, the film becomes a great lie masquerading as a bittersweet truth. Dora (Nicoletta Braschi, L), although not Jewish, joins her family in the concentration camp, in Life Is Beautiful. (Melampo Cinematografica) What the Film Industry Sells In an interview with the Washington Post, Benigni reveals the shallowness of his vision for the film: When you are laughing you are suffering. There is nothing higher than this. Even though laughing and crying [are] the same emotion, really. They arent, really. But his saying that they are tells us that for Benigni it is emotion itselfany emotionthat is the greatest thing in life, the only thing worth aiming for in making a movie. Valuing emotion for its own sake, and not as an appropriate (or inappropriate) response to some reality, defines the word sentimentality. Why did so many love this sentimental film? The answer is given by Adin Steinsaltz in his book Simple Words, where he calls Hollywood a kind of religion of intention, sentiment, and emotion. The Hollywood religion is a great believer in the happy ending. Hollywood conveys the message that the world is like a fairy tale: somehow, it will all work out well in the end. The Hollywood religion is the opiate of the masses. Life Is Beautiful is a falsification of reality not because life isnt beautiful, but because seeing its beauty from inside a Nazi concentration camp is a lot harder than the film suggests. And the reason so many have been grateful to Mr. Benigni for this falsification is that it has provided what people have wanted for 50 years: A happy ending for the Holocaust consistent with their religion of happiness. Life is Beautiful was a tremendous hit in 1997. (Melampo Cinematografica) The Religion of Happiness In the same interview, Benigni says he wanted to place his clown character in the extreme situation par excellence. And the goal is to reach some sort of poetry, or beauty. For him poetry or beauty do not arise out of the truth of a situation. They are goals. The situation is constructed to produce them. Again, the essence of sentimentality. Most meaningful to Benigni, says his interviewer, have been the thousands of letters hes received from children, thanking him for introducing them to a subject they knew little about, in a way they could comprehend. This sentence sends ice down my spine. Children now have a way to comprehend the subject thanks to a film that drags even the Holocaust into their parents religion of happiness. Audiences are grateful to Mr. Benigni for giving them a way out of having to confront the horror: We can love our children enough to protect them from evil, and they will be protected. What a relief! In presenting its lie, the film has nothing to say about what we really crave, a faith that can transcend the Holocaust through addressing it rather than avoiding it by escaping into fantasy, a faith not to Hollywoods taste. But if we cannot find a way to see the beauty of life in the face of the sacred and terrifying truths of life, at least let us not settle for the false comfort of the ersatz beauty of sentimentality. Seeing Life Is Beautiful as an image of heroism in the camps is folly. The true heroism we really seek cannot be found in such a film, and pretending that it can only prevents our seeking further. Activist Launches Twitter Campaign Calling for Attention to Chinas Political Prisoners A former Chinese human rights lawyer whos now based in the United States has started a Twitter campaign to draw international attention to the plight of political prisoners in China, following the brutal prison assault and death of the father of the activist known as Ink Girl, who known for inking over public posters of Xi Jinping. Lawyer Wang Qingpeng told The Epoch Times on Oct. 1 that after learning about the death of Dong Jianbiao, she and her friends on Twitter realized that the outside world had stopped following Dongs situation since his arrest. She believes thats why officials dared to retaliate against him so recklessly. Dong, the father of Ink Girl Dong Yaoqiong, was beaten to death in Chaling prison in Hunan Province on Sept. 23, according to various international media outlets. His body was cremated the next day. Dong Yaoqiong, a former real estate agent in Shanghai, live-streamed herself on Twitter on July 4, 2018, splashing ink on a propaganda poster bearing Xi Jinpings image. Dong was recently released after she was subjected to compulsory treatment in a psychiatric hospital for more than a year. (Screenshot from Dongs Twitter video) A Hunan citizen named Chen Siming was arrested for sharing on Twitter the news that Dong had died. Hunan journalist Hu Jianlue was arrested for attending Dongs funeral. In 2018, Dong Yaoqiong posted a video on Chinese social media of her criticizing the Chinese communist regime and splashing ink on a poster of regime leader Xi Jinping in Shanghai. In response, authorities detained her in psychiatric hospitals three times and injected her with an unknown substance that triggered changes in her behavior. Currently, her whereabouts are unknown. Her father, who was a mine worker, had been searching for her and trying to rescue her while seeking to draw the worlds attention to her plight. The local authorities arrested him in 2021. Power of International Attention On Sept. 25, I saw that many people on Twitter were retweeting the news of political prisoners facing retaliation from the Chinese authorities after the international community stopped paying attention to them, Wang told The Epoch Times. So I posted the Appeal to Overseas Twitter Users to Each Focus on One Chinese Political Prisoner letter on Twitter, calling on the international community to pay attention to detained political prisoners situations in China. The appeal was liked and forwarded by many Twitter users, with 130,000 views. Its been five days since I posted the appeal letter, and more than 20 people have signed up, Wang said. At present, 16 Twitter users have joined the Telegram group for the one-on-one focus on Chinese political prisoners, and several others are in communication with the prisoners, their families, and lawyers. A China Without Political Prisoners At present, the activity mainly focuses on detained political prisoners who spoke out for human rights, Wang said. Our goal is that there will be no more political prisoners in China, everyone can speak freely, and China can have a government that is legally supervised by the people, she said. Yesterday, a friend on Twitter, Esme Chen, told me that paying attention to political prisoners is not just about them, but also for ourselves and the next generation, she added. If the CCPs policy spreads to the whole world, then it will make our escape from communist China meaningless. Now, the CCP authorities have deleted and silenced the voices of all those dissidents who have a backbone, leaving only indifferent, insensitive, and abusive posts all over the internet, making the world think that we Chinese are all like this. In fact, these political prisoners and people on the Twitter group who follow their situation are the true representation of the Chinese people. Chinese rights lawyer Wang Qingpeng posted detained Chinese activist Ji Xiaolongs photo on her Twitter account, warning that Ji is in danger of being sent to a psychiatric hospital for persecution by authorities on Sept. 22, 2022. (Screenshot via Twitter) Esme Chen is currently posting the case of detained political prisoner Wang Linlin. I am updating the information about the case of Ji Xiaolong, and some people are tweeting the cases of Tan Binglin, Zhang Zhan, Tang Jitian, Wu Tu, Li Qiaochu, Chang Weiping, Xuebing, and others, Wang said. Ji Xiaolong was arrested by authorities for the second time on Sept. 23 for opposing the COVID-19 lockdowns. Ji was previously jailed for 3 1/2 years for openly criticizing the regime before being released in February. The Twitter focus group said Jis health condition in prison is concerning, since he hasnt yet recovered from his previous time in detention. Li Xi contributed to this report. American Democracy Is in Extremis Commentary The 900-pound gorilla lurking in every voting place in the United States during the final month before the midterm elections is that the national political media are continuing to repeat, almost in unison, that any possible dispute over the legitimacy and authenticity of the 2020 presidential election result has been resolved. The evidence for this claim has been the failure of the many actions undertaken by Rudolph Giuliani on behalf of then-President Donald Trump, and Sidney Powell acting independently but in the same interest, which made exaggerated claims and sought unrealistic remedies from the courts. The national political media were approximately 95 percent hostile to Trump, according to independent media surveys by Pew Research and the Harvard Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy. They reckoned that by debunking the GiulianiPowell efforts, they would discredit all concerns about the authenticity of the election result. There were 19 actions challenging the constitutionality of the voting and vote counting changes, supposedly to facilitate voting in the pandemic, particularly in the swing states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Most important was the action against those states by the attorney general of Texas, who was joined in his complaint by 18 other state attorneys general, directly to the U.S. Supreme Court as the forum for interstate lawsuits. This action alleged violation of the constitutional obligation of all states to ensure through their state legislatures, and not the executive or judiciary in those states, that presidential elections are fairly conducted within their jurisdictions. None of these cases was heard on its merits, a fact that received almost no publicity. Process objections were raised: lateness, wrong courtseverything was shuffled off until the clock ran out. The pattern of judicial refusal to hear these cases was so uniform, and so speciously pretextual, that it evinces an absolute reluctance throughout the judicial branch of government to contemplate so controversial a measure as a reversal of the apparent result of a presidential election. This reluctance is understandable, as such an intervention would have led to a widespread demand, including likely by a majority in both houses of Congress in 2021, for radical revisions to the composition and prerogatives of the courts. The supreme courts of Florida and the United States, with some dissent in both cases, effectively confirmed the apparent result of the only previous presidential election that was referred to the courts: that of 2000, when George W. Bush won by one electoral vote over Al Gore when Bush was deemed to have carried the state of Florida by 537 votes out of nearly 6 million cast. In 1800 (Jefferson, Burr, Adams) and in 1824 (Jackson, John Quincy Adams), the House of Representatives elected the president when there had been no majority in the Electoral College. And in 1876 (HayesTilden), a special commission decided the result on a partisan basis, which was graciously accepted by Tilden in exchange for certain promises by his opponent, which Hayes honored. In 1960, there were many extremely close states and the result was unclear, but Vice President Richard Nixon declined to challenge the result despite President Dwight Eisenhower urging him to do so, because he believed that such a challenge would be damaging to the United States at the height of the Cold War, and President John F. Kennedy was elected. In all those previous elections, when the apparently losing candidate challenged the process, there was some consideration of the merits of the case. The effect of the 2020 abstention is to give the decision to the apparent winner, no matter what level of skullduggery may have been reached in producing the ostensible result. In 2020, there were allegedly millions of so-called harvested ballots, which couldnt be verified that they were actually exercised by an identifiable voter, and a shift of just 50,000 votes in Pennsylvania and any two of Arizona, Georgia, and Wisconsin would have flipped the Electoral College to Trump. No one knows who would have won an election whose fairness could be established. Theres nothing to be done about it now, but the many close races in the midterms and the polls all show that about half of voters think the 2020 election was stolen. Trump doesnt help himself with implausible claims that he really won the popular vote or absurd demands for a new election. Last week here, I described this as an airtight sacred oath of secrecy by the entire American national political media that 2020 was an unquestionably fair presidential election an astounding and possibly unprecedented act of mass denial of the obvious. An official of one of the major internet political comment aggregators wrote me that when millions of people simply close their eyes and turn off their minds, they become nothing more than sheep. Half of the public doesnt buy it, so they arent sheep. However, the refusal of the national political media to acknowledge that this controversy exists at all inflames current political discourse. It also makes an attempted insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021, seem half-believable, when it was really just hooliganism hiding behind the understandable peaceful annoyance of Trumps followers. Such a refusal ensures an escalation in the fury of the Trump camp, and an unjustified state of self-righteous complacency on the part of Trump opponents, who have no idea that he has a legitimate complaint. If a presidential election result is the third rail the courts wont touch, all interested parties will have to litigate promptly to change what they think are improper changes in voting and vote counting rules. That was Trumps mistake. The courts will still prevent a presidential election from being stolen, even if they wont reverse one that has been stolen. The United States is approaching the guardrails on each side of coherent political conduct. On the opposite side to the courts refusal to challenge an apparent presidential election result is some restraint toward frivolous and vexatious litigious persecution of a political opponent. No realistic person could be optimistic about where the intoxicating habit of criminalizing policy differences will end. (It will probably start again in the new Republican congress, and not without some provocation.) If the unmitigated nonsense that led to the invasion of Trumps house in Palm Beach leads to a spurious indictment, those responsible will be bringing down upon the country and its political and legal institutions a degree of deserved disrepute with no precedent since the Civil War. Its particularly distressing to see William Barr purport to perceive possible crimes at Mar-a-Lagohe who claimed to be riding to the rescue of legality as attorney general when he saw that the FBI and Justice Department had illegally conducted espionage against the Trump campaign and transition team, and gave us the snails pace fiasco of the Durham investigation. (At least the Durham investigation exists, unlike the fictitious investigation by the previous attorney general Jeff Sessions of the same subject by John Huber of Utah. If the courts wont touch crooked presidential elections and the winners will scurrilously prosecute defeated candidates, American democracy is in extremis. And if the media wont present the issues even slightly impartially, they have ceased to be of any utility to society and have already forfeited the right to be called a free press. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Azerbaijan has confirmed that it is holding 17 Armenian prisoners of war who were taken captive as a result of the September 13th aggression against Armenia, Deputy head of the Office of Armenias Representative on International Legal Affairs, Diana Karazyan told reporters, adding that the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) urged Azerbaijan to provide details about the captives, but it, as always, has provided general information. October 3, 2022, 14:26 Azerbaijan confirmed holding 17 Armenian POWs after latest aggression ECHR STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: At the moment the activities of the Office are directed to applying an urgent measure concerning the POWs. However, Azerbaijan is not always presenting the information required by ECHR. Azerbaijan has confirmed that it holds 17 POWs and provided very general information about them, she said. She said that the ECHR urged Azerbaijan to provide details about the captives, particular about their treatment and other issues, but as always, Azerbaijan provided general information. Diana Karazyan said that this behavior of Azerbaijan is not something new. She also stated that there are still around 30 captives, including civilian captives, held in Azerbaijan, who were taken captive as a result of the 2020 war. Commenting on the videos being spread by the Azerbaijani side, Communication and Prevention Program Manager at the Delegation of the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) to Armenia, Zara Amatuni said that ICRC, being as a neutral humanitarian organization, is not authorized to make a statement at a public platform about the incidents and videos, but added that these issues are under their constant spotlight. We visit the persons who were taken captive as a result of the 44-Day War and the military operations of 2022 once a month and are trying to keep that frequency. During the visits we hand over videos, letters from the relatives to the captives, provide an opportunity for a phone call and vice versa, she said. The Norwegian Jewel, right, a Norwegian Cruise Lines ship, is seen in Warnemuende, northern Germany, in this file photo. (AP Photo/Thomas Haentzschel) Another Major Cruise Operator Drops Key COVID-19 Mandates Norwegian Cruise Line announced Monday it was dropping more of its COVID-19 measures on its ships. In an announcement, the firm said that the new rule will be effective by Oct. 4 and drops requirements for vaccination, masking, and testing. Health and safety are always our first priority; in fact, we were the health and safety leaders from the very start of the pandemic, Harry Sommer, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief executive officer, said in the statement. Many travelers have been patiently waiting to take their long-awaited vacation at sea and we cannot wait to celebrate their return. The cruise line, owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said even with the easing of its health protocols, it would continue to follow travel guidelines as required by the destinations it visits. Given the significant, positive progress in the public health environment, the Cruise Line updated its health and safety guidelines, which are now more aligned with other global travel organizations, the companys news release said. Norwegian Cruise Lines will continue to follow COVID-19 rules that are required by certain countries or locales. For example, according to its website, proof of vaccination or a negative test is mandated for Australia, but Canada has lifted COVID-19-related travel requirements. CDC Drops Rule The decision by the cruise line comes after several countries lifted testing requirements for international air travelers as people return to pre-pandemic lifestyles across the globe. Since the start of the pandemic in early 2020, cruise companies have been crushed by pandemic-related restrictions and lockdowns. The Diamond Princess cruise ship is seen at the Daikoku Pier Cruise Terminal in Yokohama port on Feb 27, 2020. (Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP via Getty Images) There was significant scrutiny on a cruise ship, the Diamond Princess, that remained held outside a Japanese port for several weeks after numerous COVID-19 cases were reported on board. Weeks later, ships that reported outbreaks of the virus were blocked from docking in ports in the United States and other countries. Industry data shows that the total economic contribution from cruise companies dropped from $154 billion in 2019 to $63 billion in 2020. Thousands of jobs were also shed, the data shows, as the number of people booking cruises plummeted. In July, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dropped its mandatory requirements for cruise lines and later ended its reporting program. Cruise operators since then have dropped their rules around COVID-19. CDC has worked closely with the cruise industry, state, territorial, and local health authorities, and federal and seaport partners to provide a safer and healthier environment for cruise passengers and crew, the CDC said in July. Cruise ships have access to guidance and tools to manage their own COVID-19 mitigation programs. Firms Drop Requirements In August, Norwegians main competitorsCarnival Corp and Royal Caribbean Groupdropped mandatory testing for guests vaccinated for COVID-19 on some of their cruise lines. Azamara, another operator cruise line, said in July that it too removed the testing mandate except in areas where it is still required in accordance with country regulations, according to a statement. Despite rules around mandatory vaccinations being implemented, some ships reported COVID-19 outbreaks. In March, a 100 percent vaccinated Princess Cruises cruise ship reported a COVID-19 outbreak that was forced to dock in San Francisco. They were all asymptomatic or only mildly symptomatic, Princess Cruises said at the time. Some vaccinated passengers who tested positive were provided with accommodations ashore to hotels coordinated in advance for isolation and quarantine, the statement added. Shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Royal Caribbean were up about 3 percent each in morning trading, while Carnivals shares were down 1 percent. Reuters contributed to this report. A 17th-century Jesuit priest, known for his advice on worldly success, took aim at a despotic regime Self-knowledge is the beginning of self-improvement. Many variations of this simple advice exist today, but this formulation was originally the motto of a 17th-century Jesuit priest named Baltasar Gracian y Morales. Although not widely known outside of Spain, Gracian does occasionally transcend obscurity. Thirty years ago, Christopher Maurers translation of Gracians book The Art of Worldly Wisdom unexpectedly made The New York Times bestseller list and sold more than 200,000 copies. It consists of 300 wry observations, such as the following: Cautious silence is where prudence takes refuge. The greatest fool is the one who doesnt think himself one, only others. It takes much reflection to keep a passion from bolting like a horse; and if youre wise on horseback, youre wise in everything. A beautiful woman should break her mirror early. Gracians proverbial wit and brevity is famous in Spain, and his best one-liners bear similarities to those found in Poor Richards Almanac. In the world of academic philosophy, practical thinkers get ignored in favor of theoreticians. But while old theories are rendered obsolete by newer ones, wisdom is timeless. Gracians writings retain a perennially modern quality even after 400 years. An Empire in Decline Born in 1601, Gracian lived in a time much like our own. The Spanish empire was on the wane: The government was rife with corruption, the economy was failing, and individual liberties were under attack. Gracian observed that moral decline was accompanying social decline. He felt that he needed to combat this tendency by writing ethical manuals on how to navigate an uncertain world. He wanted his readers to attain a special type of understanding, which he described using a word that has no direct equivalent in English: desengano. As his translator, Maurer, explains it as a state of disillusionment in which one gains control of ones hopes and fears, overcomes deceitful appearances and vain expectations, and weans oneself from false worldly values. The closest English approximation is probably disenchantment, but without that words pessimistic connotations. Maurers phrase bittersweet beatitude perhaps best describes Gracians intended brand of enlightenment. Gracian teaches us how to cultivate excellence, good taste, gracefulness in action, emotional mastery, and other prudent behaviors. Never be content with imitating others, he tells usbe singular and original. Strive toward perfection without trying to impress anyone. Hide your depths from those who would be envious of your talents. He belabors this last point in all his books. As he succinctly puts it, Do, but also seem. In dangerous times, appearances are as important as substance. Too Worldly Wise? Some might think it strange that a Jesuit priest would write about how to achieve success in earthly affairs. This apparent contradiction wasnt lost on Gracians contemporaries. Although his writings arent controversial today, the Spanish Inquisition was at its height during his lifetime. Thousands of people were tortured and executed on charges of witchcraft, heresy, and immorality, sometimes based only on the suspicions of a neighbor. Many bookssome of which are now classicswere deemed harmful, placed on a forbidden index, and burned. Gracians ecclesiastical superiors considered it unbecoming of a man who had taken holy orders to publish shrewd advice books on nonspiritual matters. His catchy maxims about concealing ones intentions struck them as dishonest and sinful. On top of this, Gracian didnt seek approval to print his books. Instead, he went around the authorities and quietly published them under pen names. He seems to have been speaking from experience when, in The Art of Worldly Wisdom, he writes: Being defeated is hateful, and besting ones boss is either foolish or fatal. Gracian was more intelligent than his superiors, constantly outshone them, and was perpetually insubordinate. Upon discovering that he had authored another book, they would discipline him by placing him on rations of bread and water or exiling him to remote areas of the country. Fortunately for Gracian, he was friends with a wealthy nobleman who financed his publications and saved him from the Inquisitions most excessive punishments. The bureaucracy driving the censorship was also inefficient enough that Gracian could squeeze by as a repeat offender. His books were printed in pocket-sized editions. This made them not only easy to carry, but to conceal. Brief Enmity, Lasting Fame Gracians final book won him his greatest acclaim as an authorand animosity from the Spanish elites. Unlike his earlier advice manuals, this one was a novel: El Criticon (The Critic or Faultfinder), which ranks with Don Quixote as one of the masterpieces of Spanish literature. In it, a cynical man of the world named Critilo is shipwrecked on a deserted island. He meets Andrenio, a natural man who has lived his entire life on the island and is innocent of social customs. Together, they set out on a journey toward the Isle of Immortality and have many adventures along the way. The tension between the practical realist Critilo and the naive, idealistic Andrenio allows Gracian to comment hilariously on the evils of Spanish society during his dayeven daring to criticize King Philip IV and his corrupt ministers. To ridicule a despotic regime was no laughing matter. Though Gracian published the first part of the novel under the pseudonym Garcia de Malones (an anagram of Gracian y Morales), his superiors discovered the books true authorship and punished him. He was prohibited from writing anything ever again. Despite his own advice about keeping up appearances, Gracian wasnt very good at it himself. He had a dangerous habit of speaking the truth even when it led to bad outcomes. As Gracian writes, A wise man gets more use from his enemies than a fool from his friends. Even while the Spanish authorities denounced The Critic, it was being widely translated. Gracian couldnt resist the allurements of fame and completed two more parts of the novel. When the third volume appeared in 1657, his superiors finally had enough. He was expelled from his professorship at a Jesuit College and sent to live out his days in a rural village. The general of the Society of Jesus ordered Gracians seniors to keep watch over him, inspect his hands for ink stains, and search his room. If any secular writings were found, he was to be locked up without paper or pen until he is humbled and recognizes his error. Gracian died a few months later. His literary achievements, however, achieved enormous popularity throughout Europe, outliving the enmity of narrow minds. Its well to remember that freedom of the press, something Americans take for granted, still doesnt exist in many countries today. Writers suffer harsh retribution for criticizing those in power. Outspoken journalists disappear, never to be seen again. Its heartening, then, that even in the worst of times there have been those who dont submit to coerced ideological conformity. Speak what is very good, do what is very honorable, Gracian writes. The first shows a perfect head, the second a perfect heart, and both arise in a superior spirit. Users browse through the Chinese-owned video-sharing TikTok app on a smartphones in Amritsar, India, on June 30, 2020. (Narinder Nanu/AFP via Getty Images) Beijing Will Know More About You Than You Do: Gettr CEO When people think of a data breach, their natural reaction is to worry about losing information, such as passwords. However, Jason Miller, founder of the social media app Gettr, says that much more is at risk. What its about is theyre going to know more about your mental makeup than you do, and thats scary, he told The Epoch Times on Oct. 1. Apps backed by the Chinese state, such as TikTokwhich is targeting the prized Gen Z and Alpha cohortsarent just collecting data from their users but also giving Beijing the full ability to psychologically profile the users who will be our next generation of leaders, according to Miller. The former Trump administration adviser was in Sydney for CPAC Australiathe Conservative Political Action Conference. He said China-based companies, and, by default, the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP), now have access to all user information, including credit card details and passwords, from apps such as TikTok and, at the same time, will be conducting psychographic analysis of an entire generation of people. Jason Miller, CEO of Gettr, in an interview with NTDs Steve Lance on Capitol Report on Sept. 14, 2022. (Screenshot via NTD video) So, lets say my oldest daughter is 13, and they start tracking her when she starts an account. A decade later, shes going through college, they then have a decade of psychographic analysis data on someone they know, Miller said. He said this data will give the CCP insight into what younger generations in other countries think about issues such as Taiwan or when the next virus gets launched. They will know whats going to move public opinion in very short order, Miller said. Fast forward another 10 or 20 years, and say my daughter runs for office. Imagine the manipulative ability for them to have the psychographic analyses of an entire generation of political leaders and voters, not just in the United States but around the world. They will know if youre going to like; swipe up, left, or right; and what content you will react to before even you do. And think how theyre going to use that to manipulate other governments, people in other countriesand theyre just getting started. Chinas Big Tech and the CCPs Ambitions Questions have long lingered over how Chinas state-backed technology companies use the data they collect. Some of the most well-known tech brands in the world are based in China, including TikTok (ByteDance), Huawei, HikVision, WeChat (Tencent), and the worlds largest drone maker, DJI. China-based companies are subject to a bevy of laws under the CCP that compel cooperation upon demand by the regime. Notably, the 2017 National Intelligence Law forces China-based companies to share data with the CCP if ordered to do so, and its militarycivil fusion doctrine means that technologies developed in the civilian sector can be repurposed for the regimes Peoples Liberation Army. This approachalong with technology theft from Western institutionshas helped China make leaps and bounds in several cutting-edge fields, including artificial intelligence and quantum computing. In response, Arthur Herman, a senior fellow at the conservative think tank Hudson Institute, has warned U.S. leaders to stay ahead of the curve to maintain the technological edge over Beijing. The fact that we have a lead doesnt necessarily mean were going to win, Herman previously told The Epoch Times. Its like the hare and the tortoise. Were like the hare, weve sprinted ahead but the Chinese are moving ahead toward us, slowly but surely. Australian Sen. James Paterson has called on political leaders around the world to harness the strengths of Big Tech companies in Silicon Valley that have to operate under the laws of the United States. Despite our many legitimate frustrations with our own tech titans, we do have to choose ourselves whether we want them to prevail in their own competition with their counterparts in authoritarian countries, Paterson said. Because it will either be Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and Amazon who set the international rules of the road when it comes to technology, or it will be Tencent, ByteDance, Huawei, and HikVision. Biden Incapable of Stopping Colorful Fentanyl Flow Into US From China: Ex-Cybersecurity Official As reports emerge that colorful fentanyl resembling candy sent from China is targeting American kids and young adults, the Biden administration has yet to take action to counter the threat, according to John Mills, former director of cybersecurity policy, strategy, and international affairs at the Department of Defense. The White House, the president should be doing something to stop it, and holding China accountable. But they again seem incapable, Mills told the China in Focus program on NTD news, The Epoch Times sister media. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration last month issued a warning about an alarming emerging trend of colorful fentanyl to drive addiction amongst kids and young adults. According to Mills, it is a tool used by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to take down Americans. We have youth that are dying. We now have, the CCP is actively inserting fentanyl and fentanyl components into essentially candy, into essentially knock-off copies of opioids that people can buy on the street, he said. This is incredibly dangerous. They are trying to kill Americans. Mills called it a horrendous, grave, mortal risk and threat to America. And if this current administration cared about America and Americans, they would be doing everything to stop this, he said. The Epoch Times reached out to the White House for comment. How Fentanyl Gets Into America Mills further pointed to the warning about the dangers of fentanyl put out by Alaska, the state closest to China. The fentanyl that gets to Alaska, according to Mills, is coming through the unsecure southern border transiting the continental United States. He singled out a report by Sam Cooper, a Canadian award-winning investigative journalist that exposed how corrupt politicians in the communist regime have been using gangs and casinos in Vancouver, British Columbia, to launder dirty money made through the illicit drug trade. According to Mills, Canada is another transit route by which fentanyl can enter America. The modern organized crime in Vancouver is essentially an extension and a paramilitary wing of the Chinese Communist Party, he noted. Warning to Parents As Halloween looms, the former official in the Trump administration warned parents to be cautious about candy handouts. Parents should not accept any form of candy in any kind of handouts. You should only buy candy from trusted storeswhich means essentially big name stores, said Mills. He continued to urge the Biden administration to hold China accountable by imposing aggressive trade measures. Another effective approach would be to cut off financial flow to the regime. As the U.S. accounting audit regulator has recently delivered a warning regarding the integrity and complete access to work papers of accounting firms of New York-listed Chinese companies. Mills noted that the Chinese regime was trying to set up Hong Kong as essentially a major international stock market to avoid this ramped-up inspection effort. You gotta cut off the cash flow to China, you got to have [an] extreme maximum pressure campaign to cut off the financial flows to China, he said. Hannah Ng Reporter Follow Hannah Ng is a reporter covering U.S. and China news. She holds a master's degree in international and development economics from the University of Applied Science Berlin. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin attends the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore on June 11, 2022. (Roslan Rahman/AFP via Getty Images) Biden Was Clear on Defending Taiwan: Austin U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said this week that President Joe Bidens vow to defend Taiwan from an invasion by China was clear, but denied that such an invasion was imminent. Austin added that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which rules China as a single-party state, was working to normalize its military presence around Taiwan. The United States would continue to furnish the island government with the arms necessary for its self defense, he said. I dont see an imminent invasion, Austin said during an interview with CNN on Sunday. What we do see is China moving to establish what we would call a new normal.' The comments come just weeks after Biden said in an interview that the U.S. military would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. Though Biden has made similar comments a number of times in the past, White House staff have always rushed to clarify that there was no official change in the United States Taiwan policy, in which it vows not to unilaterally advocate for Taiwanese independence. I think the president was clear in providing his answers as he responded to a hypothetical question, Austin said of the incident. When asked whether the U.S. military was currently preparing for such an eventuality, Austin did not answer directly. Were committed to helping Taiwan develop the capability to defend itself, Austin said. When pressed on the issue, Austin said only that the United States was prepared to defend its interests anywhere, at any time. The American military is always prepared to protect our interests and live up to our commitments, he said. CCP Seeks to Normalize Military Presence Around Taiwan The United States unofficial relationship with Taiwan has been in the limelight since early August, when House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) visited the island. CCP authorities used the visit as a pretext to launch a series of unprecedented military drills around the island. Those drills included real cyberattacks on Taiwanese infrastructure, a blockade of international sea and air traffic, and the launching of several ballistic missiles directly over Taiwan that landed in the waters of Japans exclusive economic zone. The CCP has continued similar drills on a smaller scale ever since and has vowed to normalize such behavior as part of its effort to force Taiwan under its control. CCP leadership maintains that Taiwan is a rogue province that must be united with the mainland. Taiwan is a self-governed democracy, however, and has never been controlled by the CCP. The United States is legally bound by the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, but maintains agreements with China that neither power will attempt to unilaterally change the status quo. Austin confirmed that the CCPs efforts to normalize a military presence around Taiwan were underway, saying that the number of CCP vessels and aircraft crossing over the median line of the Taiwan Strait had increased steadily since August. The United States and its allies have continued to sail through the region despite CCP pressure, making regular transits through the Taiwan Strait, though neither the United States nor its allies have taken any retaliatory action against the CCP for its aggression. The United States has maintained a continuous naval presence in the Indo-Pacific since 1835, and Austin said that the nation, its allies, and partners would continue to ensure the region remained free and open in accordance with internal laws. Notably, Austin acknowledged that the United States and the CCP had not reestablished regular military communications in the region since the CCP severed all in-theater communications during its drills in August. Austin said he has communicated with his CCP counterpart, Defense Minister Wei Fenghe, who he said agreed that open communications were important. In June, however, Wei used those open communications to threaten Austin, saying the CCP would not hesitate to start a war, no matter the cost to prevent Taiwan from being internationally recognized as an independent nation. Well do everything we can to continue to signal that we want those channels open and I would hope that China will begin to lean forward a bit more and work with us, Austin said. Those open channels are critical to both of us. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken devilers a speech on the US-Africa Strategy at the University of Pretoria's Future Africa Campus in Pretoria, on August 8, 2022. - Blinken is on a ten-day trip to Cambodia, Philippines, South Africa, Congo, and Rwanda. (Photo by Andrew Harnik / POOL / AFP) (Photo by ANDREW HARNIK/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Blinken: Nord Stream Explosions Tremendous Opportunity for Europe to Stop Using Russian Gas U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken responded to the reported explosions at the Nord Stream pipelines by saying that its a tremendous opportunity for European nations to remove dependence on Russian natural gas. I think first its important to make clear that these pipelinesthat is, Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2were not pumping gas into Europe at this time, Blinken said in remarks over the weekend in Washington. Nord Stream 2 never became operational, as is well known. Nord Stream 1 has been shut down for weeks because of Russias weaponization of energy. Alleged undersea blasts that damaged the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines last week have led to huge methane leaks. Nordic investigators said the blasts involved several hundred pounds of explosives. Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the West on Sept. 30 of sabotaging the Russia-built pipelines, a charge vehemently denied by the United States and its allies. Some European countries claimed that it was Moscow that carried out the attack on the lines, which Russia has denied. Blinken noted that the damage to the pipelines that connected Russia to Germany is also a tremendous opportunity for Europe to once and for all remove its dependence on Russian energy and thus to take away from [Russia] the weaponization of energy. The United States is now the leading supplier of LNG [liquefied natural gas] to Europe, while noting that the Biden administration is helping to enable European countries to decrease demand for gas and speed up the transition to renewables. Other Details European nations, which have been reeling under soaring energy prices triggered by the RussiaUkraine conflict, have stated that its Russia, not Europe, that benefits from chaos in the energy markets and spiking prices for energy. The United States has long been opposed to the two pipelines and had repeatedly urged Germany to halt them, saying that they increased Europes energy dependence on Russia and decreased its security. In this handout photo provided by the Swedish Coast Guard, the release of gas emanating from a leak on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea on September 28, 2022. (Swedish Coast Guard via Getty Images) Since the West, led by the United States, imposed heavy sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine in February, Russia has cut back supplies of natural gas sent to Europe to heat homes, generate electricity, and run factories. European leaders have accused Moscow of using energy blackmail to divide them in their strong support for Ukraine. The Nord Stream AG told the Danish Energy Agency that a stable pressure has been achieved on the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. The Nord Stream AG company has informed the Danish Energy Agency that a stable pressure now appears to have been achieved on the two Nord Stream 1 pipelines. This indicates that the blowout of gas from the last two leaks has now also been completed, the Danish Energy Agency wrote on Twitter on Oct. 2. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The enormity of Hurricane Ians destruction has inspired people nationwide to search for different ways to support the victims of the major storm system that rolled in on Floridas west coast last week. Dominic DAndrea, a 7-year-old boy, has moved many people in a now-viral video where the young man said hes gifting all the money in his piggy bank to help those devastated by Ian. What are you doing with your piggy bank? DAndreas mother, Jaclyn, is heard asking her son in the 37-second clip posted on TikTok. DAndrea, holding onto his piggy bank, responded that hell send it to people in need in Florida because they have a hurricane and their office is gonna go down and they need more stuff. Their house might go down and they might have nothing, the boy went on to say. I am giving them my whole piggy bank jar! I was really saving up for a Corvette or an electric scooter, but people need this, DAndrea explained, looking at his piggy bank jar while having a conversation with his mother. DAndrea, joined by his mother on Fox & Friends Weekend on Oct. 2, explained what led to the boys generous gift. It all started with a conversation Wednesday morning on the way to drop the kids off at school, Jaclyn told the network. Dominic asked a lot of questions: Why I was so upset and what a hurricane was, and I kind of knew where his little mind was going when we got back home, she added. Jaclyn didnt expect the video to uplift so many viewers and capture the interest of so many people, explaining that she only recorded the clip of her son holding his piggy bank to show her husband since he was at work at the time. During the interview, DAndrea revealed that he had amassed $200 in his piggy bank before making the donation. Were going to buy supplies and donations at the store today, the boy said. FBI Warns of Fraud Schemes Meanwhile, the FBIs Tampa office wrote in a recent warning to Florida residents that people seeking to make donations to support Ians victims be cautious about potential fraud schemes that frequently follow hurricanes and other natural disasters. Watch out for scammers trying to use a natural disaster like Hurricane Ian to steal your money, your personal information, or both, the FBI warned. The bureau said it is recommending that would-be donors use established charities or trusted groups, be aware of groups with copycat names, be wary of new organizations soliciting donations, and be cautious when a charity or group asks for cash only. Donating via check or credit card is preferable, the FBI said, while adding that groups that are asking for donations via cash, gift card, virtual currency, or wire transfer, are probably a scam. The FBIs Miami office also advised potential donors to do your homework before providing donations, adding that people can look into reviews of certain charities, state regulators for charities, and reports of charities at the Better Business Bureau. Jack Phillips contributed to this report. From NTD News (Left) Former president of Brazil and candidate of Worker's Party Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Sao Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, on Oct. 2, 2022. (Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images); (Right) President of Brazil and presidential candidate Jair Bolsonaro in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Oct. 2, 2022. (Buda Mendes/Getty Images) Brazils Election Sees Bolsonaro, Lula Head to Runoff Amid Tight Race Brazils presidential election is headed for a runoff vote later this month after neither of the nations top two candidates managed to secure enough support on Sunday to claim an outright victory. Brazils election authority announced on Sunday that a second round of voting was a mathematical certainty. While former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the left-wing former president of the country, did pull in the most votes overall in the election on Sunday, according to officials, he still fell short of the more than 50 percent valid votes needed to prevent a run-off against conservative incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. With 99.7 percent of the votes counted in Sundays election, da Silva was ahead with 48.4 percent of the votes, while Bolsonaro had 43.3 percent of the votes; marking an extremely tight race. The two will now face each other again in a run-off scheduled for Oct. 30 Nine other candidates were also competing in the election. But both da Silva, 76, and Bolsonaro, 67, garnered the most support in the race to determine who will run the country for the next four years. Demonstrators take part in a rally in support of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and calling for a printed vote model at Paulista Avenue in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Aug. 1, 2021. (Nelson Almeida/AFP via Getty Images) Polls Off the Mark Again The results came as a surprise to many, given that pre-election polls had shown da Silva, widely known as Lula, with a strong lead. The last survey published on Saturday by Datafolha, Grupo Folhas polling institute, predicted that da Silva would secure 50 percent of the vote compared to 36 percent for Bolsonaro. That survey interviewed 12,800 people in 310 cities and reported a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points. Carlos Melo, a political science professor at Insper University in Sao Paulo, said: It is too soon to go too deep, but this election shows Bolsonaros victory in 2018 was not a hiccup. Bolsonaro outperformed in Brazils southeast region, which includes populous Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais states, according to Rafael Cortez, who oversees political risk at consultancy Tendencias Consultoria. The polls didnt capture that growth, Cortez said. Da Silva and his Workers Party led Brazil for two terms from 2003 to 2010, during which time he won the support of millions of Brazilians who benefitted immediately from his top-down social justice policies, including anti-hunger and income-transfer programmes, in which the government subsidised electricity and food prices, and transferred cash to the poor. His legacy was expanded on by former Workers Party President Dilma Rousseff. According to Richard Bourne, da Silvas biographer, the former president made Brazil a significant player on the world scene, helping create the G20 and establish relations with other BRICS countries; Russia, India, China and South Africa. Former president of Brazil and Candidate of Workers Party (PT) Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gestures to the journalists after voting during general elections day in Sao Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, on Oct. 2, 2022. (Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images) However, da Silva was banned in 2018 from returning to power again after he was convicted on charges of money laundering and corruption at the state-owned oil and petrol company, Petrobras. Following an investigation into the alleged scheme, he was jailed for 12 years. He always maintained his innocence, saying that the case against him was politically motivated. After spending 580 days behind bars, da Silvas conviction was overturned by the Supreme Court when seven of 11 justices decided he should be tried in his state of residence instead of the state in which he was accused. He has yet to retried in court over the charges. Now, Da Silvas campaign has offered measures to protect the Amazon rainforest and a return to the prosperity that was seen across the country during his time in office, although details of how that will be achieved have been vague. Bolsonaro, a former army captain, congressman, and leader of the Social Liberal Party, came to power four years ago via a conservative coalition that included evangelical Christians, pro-gun advocates, and others. Bolsonaro Promises to Uphold Family Values Bolsonaro has pledged to uphold traditional family values, protect the country from leftist policies, and reduce the tax burden in order to stimulate the economy. Dubbed by some as Brazils Trump, Bolsonaro has previously been outspoken about his admiration for the former U.S. President. Bolsonaro has also questioned Brazils electronic voting system, which he believes are more vulnerable to fraud than paper ballots. His critics have taken aim at his administrations hands-off response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw the country top the United States in its number of COVID-19 deaths per million in the population, according to Johns Hopkins University data. Like many around the world, Brazilians are currently battling soaring inflation and rising poverty levels. Despite Sundays extremely tight results, Da Silva took to Twitter where he vowed to continue furiously campaigning across the country to win the election. Starting tomorrow, we will be on the campaign. Dont rest. Lets talk to our opponents, to our friends. We are the best solution to solve the life of the Brazilian people. Good night and see you tomorrow, he wrote. Meanwhile, Bolsonaro issued similar rhetoric on Twitter, saying: We know the size of our responsibility and the challenges we are going to face. But we know where we want to go and how we will get there. By the grace of God, I have never lost an election and I know that it will not be now, when the freedom of all of Brazil depends on us. This article has been updated with further details. Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report. The polls in Brazil predicted an easy victory for one of the candidates in the election on Oct. 2. But that election is now headed for a second round as Jair Bolsonaro defies expectations. Rescue and recovery operations are underway in Florida. Find out what the state is doing to get things back in order. At least 125 people were killed in one of the worlds worst-ever stadium disasters as Indonesian fans headed for the exits in panic. Topics in this episode include: 1. Brazils Presidential Election Goes to 2nd Round 2. Bolsonaro and Lula Head Into Run-Off 3. More Than 125 Killed in Indonesia Stadium Crush 4. Coastal Flood Risk Along I-95 Corridor 5. Rescue and Recovery Underway in Florida 6. Southern Border Crisis 7. United Airlines Suspending JFK Service 8. Usps Workers Arrested in Fraud Scheme 9. Opec+ Considering Cutting 1M Oil Barrels a Day 10. Tesla Unveils Prototype Humanoid Robot 11. Realistic Fish Replicas Hook Fishermen 12. Yurts Offer Cheap Escape From Living Costs In Hungary * Click the Save button below the video to access it later on My List. Follow EpochTV on social media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/EpochTVus Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/EpochTV Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@EpochTV Gettr: https://gettr.com/user/epochtv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EpochTVus Gab: https://gab.com/EpochTV Telegram: https://t.me/EpochTV Members of the Iranian community and their supporters rally in solidarity with protesters in Iran, after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in police custody for allegedly improperly wearing a hijab, in Ottawa on Sept. 25, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Justin Tang) Canada to Sanction 25 Iran Officials and Morality Police After Mahsa Amini Death Canada is sanctioning 25 senior Iranian officials and nine government entities following a violent crackdown on anti-government protests in Iran. Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly says in a statement posted to Twitter that the sanctions are a result of Irans grave and ongoing breaches of international law and its blatant disregard for human life. Thousands of Iranians took to the streets in Iran following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in mid-September. Amini died two days after she was arrested by Irans morality police for allegedly wearing her hijab too loosely. Todays sanctions include the morality police force, its chief as well as Irans highest ranking soldier. The sanctions freeze Canadian-held assets and ban the individuals from entering Canada. The video showing a group of Armenian prisoners of war being killed by the Azerbaijani troops has been in the spotlight of the Spanish media outlets. October 3, 2022, 16:17 Azerbaijani war crimes committed against Armenian POWs under Spanish media spotlight STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: Europe Press published an article entitled EU urges to investigate the alleged executions of Armenian servicemen by Azerbaijani soldiers, where it also posted the Twitter post of EUs Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia Toivo Klaar. The news agency comments on the footage spread on Telegram channels which shows how Azerbaijani troops brutally shoot Armenian captives, as well as the statement of the Armenian defense ministry on the video. Spanish radio Cope also published an article with a similar headline. The article starts with the statement of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan who condemns the execution of Armenian POWs. Yet another horrific video circulated in social media: Azerbaijani soldiers are arbitrarily executing group of Armenian POWs on sovereign Armenian territory. International community should strongly condemn and address this war crime and take appropriate measures to halt Azerbaijans aggression, Cope radio quoted the PMs post. The Twitter post of EUs Special Representative has also been included in the article. Another Spanish radio Cadena SER released an article entitled Armenia condemns the killing of a group of POWs by Azerbaijan a week after ceasefire agreement, which has also posted the Twitter posts of PM Pashinyan and EUs Special Representative Toivo Klaar. Confusion about board powers is part of the reason why school board elections, currently underway across much of Canada, are in trouble, writes John Hilton-OBrien. (Wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock) Canadas School Boards Are in Trouble, but You Can Do Something About It Commentary Any reader of horror fiction will tell you that you need to be careful what you wish for. Its no less true in education. School boards are governing boards, rather than managing boards. A governing board only has one employee: a superintendent, whose job it is to realize the boards wishes. In practice, this means that a board cant decide things like whether a particular child or group of children can be admitted, or how exams will be administered. All they can do is set policy, which is a set of general guidelines. Its like Aladdins Genieyou make a wish, and the genie makes it happen. But wishes can go wrong. In the horror classic The Monkeys Paw, the three wishes came with terrible costs. Using the monkeys paw to wish for money resulted in the death of the protagonists sonthe money came in the form of an insurance payout. Wishing him back to life well, the only solution was to wish that the second wish had not been made. In recent years, we wished to protect kids from bullying for reasons of gender expression. While this may be a laudable goal, its outworking has come with a cost: unprecedented levels of secrecy in which many teachers are now literally forbidden to tell parents about earthshaking decisions in their kids lives. The spectacle of the Ontario teacher with heroically-sized prosthetic breasts that recently made headlines was simply part of the package. Its less genie than paw. Confusion about board powers is part of the reason why school board elections, currently underway across much of Canada, are in trouble. There are variety of other reasonstrustee compensation is low, news coverage is limited, there are no political parties to pool resources, and no tax deductions for contributing to a school board campaign. Information about candidates and issues simply isnt as available as it is for a general election. The result? Campaigns arent on the same level as a provincial, federal, or even municipal election. The candidates dont know how to campaign effectively, they lack any meaningful budget for advertising, and have few means to recruit volunteers to spread the word. At the school level, the campaigns that are supposed to bring you information are simply absent. That means low turnout, election after election. The negative consequences are obvious. When we look at the news, we sometimes wonder if the lunatics are running the asylum. There are a lot of vested interests when it comes to school boards, including from some local unions, consultants, education academics, and bureaucratsenough people to win an election if turnout is low. And when your school board gets ambitious at your expense, these vested interests get more power, prestige, and money. When these are the most motivated voters, we cannot be surprised when the school board reflects their needs. Its like giving the monkeys paw to someone who really wants to make a wish. The good news is that if you want to make a genuine difference, you canbut you need to step up. There are four profoundly effective things you can do. The first thing you can do is stand for office. That would let you throw the monkeys paw into a drawer and lock it up. But you need to campaign well. That means learning how, spending the money required, and thinking about issues in ways that translate to policy. Think about the next election today. There are lots of groups like Parents for Choice in Education that offer training and resources for candidatestake advantage of them. Donating money is the next most powerful action. In my experience, a winning trustee campaign spends around $3,500, from literature to data. A good trustee might happen to win without that budget, but you dont want to leave it to chance! The money is small enough that $100 or so has a shot at getting someone good elected. If you have more time than money, volunteers make outsize contributions. Political campaigns need more than a candidatethey need a team. It raises money, organizes volunteers, gets the candidate to events, puts up a website, and responds to questions in social media. Ten hours makes an enormous differenceand lifelong friends. The last and most important thing is to vote effectively. With so few effective campaigns, this means homework. Search the board website, internet, and newspaper to find the background and plans of all the candidates. It takes at least two hours to figure out who is a good candidate, who is lackadaisical, and who really represents a vested interest. To whom will you give the genies lamp? Then go to the polls, ask for the ballot, and vote. Sometimes it seems like the special interests and the crazies are the only people making headway. But it doesnt have to beand its up to you to put the good people in office. So dont sit at home. Plan to vote, and plan to win. And be careful what you wish for. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. A farm tractor and baler sit in a hay field on a misty morning near Cremona, Alberta, on Aug. 30, 2016. (Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press) Canadian Farmers Mental Health Is Worse Than It Was 5 Years Ago: Study The pandemic has heightened stress on farmers, who already had a stressful, uncertain profession; Canadian farmers mental health has gotten worse than it was five years ago and is worse than the general population in almost every way, according to researchers from the University of Guelph (U of G). Researchers led by Dr. Andria Jones-Bitton conducted a study on 1,200 farmers between February and May 2021. The study followed up on Jones-Bittons previous findings that showed farmers had higher stress levels and mental health issues than the national average. There is no sick note for farmers. You dont get paid if you cant work, one farmer said in the questionnaire. Farmers suffered from stress, anxiety, depression, emotional exhaustion and cynicism (two components of burnout), suicide ideation, and lowered resilience more than the national average. The lack of control is very frustratinglack of control with respect to the weather, input costs, and commodity prices are all very stressful, another farmer said. Seventy-six percent of farmers reported that they were experiencing moderate or high levels of stress. Farmers said rising fertilizer and fuel prices and supply chain equipment shortages contributed to their stress. Farmers have long faced occupational stressors due to the weather, their workload, and finances, said Jones-Bitton. The pandemic, however, added new stresses such as increased costs, reduced seasonal agricultural farm workers due to travel bans in 2020, and farm processing backlogs due to workers and trucker drivers being ill with COVID-19, she added. Women were found to suffer more negative mental health effects than men in every aspect other than alcohol use. Jones-Bittons 2015 study showed similar numbers, but they were more pronounced in the latest study, a news article from U of G said. Further, farmers reported that their alcohol consumption had increased significantly since the beginning of the pandemic. Other coping techniques that farmers used were social withdrawal, sleeping more, changing eating patterns, and self-blame. These avoidant coping behaviours can set farmers up for other issues down the road, said Briana Hagen, a post-doctoral researcher at U of G who helped collect and analyze the study data. The more significant stress falling on women is attributed to role conflict due to women having greater off-farm responsibilities like maintaining the household and being the go-to person in the family for support. People battling mental health disorders became more stressed and anxious. (LightField Studios/Shuttertock) Get Help Suicidal ideation was twice as high in farmers compared to the regular population in the 2021 study. Canadians commit an average of around 4,000 suicides annually, 11 per day. One-third of people who commit suicide in Canada are within the 4559 age group, and men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women. Canadian-born citizens are also three times more likely to commit suicide than immigrants, according to Statistics Canada. Twenty-five percent of farmers in the 2021 study said their life was not worth living, wished they were dead, or thought about taking their own life within the past 12 months. The U of G researchers who conducted the study call for stress management training and mental health programming to help Canadian farmers. Lack of accessibility to mental health supports and services, mental health stigma in the agricultural community, and a lack of anonymity were among the main reasons that farmers do not seek the support they need, the U of G news report stated. Farming can be an isolating occupation and farmers with poor mental health need to know they are not alone, Jones-Bitton said. Police face off with demonstrators participating in a protest organized by truck drivers opposing vaccine mandates on Wellington St in Ottawa on Feb. 19, 2022. (Getty Images/Alex Kent) Canadians Dissatisfied With Feds Treatment of Freedom Convoy: Internal Federal Poll Many Canadians say they are unhappy with the police response to the Freedom Convoy in February, according to an internal survey conducted for the federal government. Even those who opposed the protest said the freezing of bank accounts would never have been necessary if more had been done to engage with protestors. Participants were generally dissatisfied with the response of the Government of Canada, said a Privy Council Office report, titled Continuous Qualitative Data Collection Of Canadians Views. It was thought the perceived lack of engagement by the federal government with the protesters only served to intensify these demonstrations. The report, first obtained by Blacklocks Reporter, was based on findings drawn from focus groups held nationwide from March 3 to 28. The Privy Council Office commissioned the survey as part of a series of reports under a $2.4 million annual contract with The Strategic Counsel. The Freedom Convoy, which began on Jan. 29 and ended on Feb. 20, started out as a demonstration in Ottawa by truckers opposing federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates for cross-border travel. It grew exponentially when supporters from across the country joined in to call for an end to all pandemic-related mandates. Significant Overreach On Feb. 14, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked the Emergencies Act in response to the protest, granting police more tools to quash the demonstration. He said at the time the measures were about keeping Canadians safe from the illegal and dangerous activities he said were occurring at the protests. Convoy organizers maintained their protest was peaceful, and that they had not engaged in any illegal activity, but rather were seeking to uphold their charter rights and freedoms. Under the emergency measures, a total of 230 supporters were arrested, and 119 were charged with Criminal Code offences, typically mischief. Among those who were more supportive of the protests it was felt use of the Act represented significant overreach by the federal government, said the report by the Privy Council Office. The researchers noted that many Canadians opposed to the Freedom Convoy also felt the use of the Emergencies Act was unnecessary. Several of those who felt the Act should not have been invoked were also primarily opposed to the protests and felt the Act would not have been necessary in the first place if more had been done at all levels of government to quell the protests in their initial days, said the report. Trudeau had refused to meet with the convoy organizers, or send representatives to meet with them, during the three-week-long protest in Ottawa. The Liberal government also enacted the Emergency Economic Measures Order on Feb. 15, giving RCMP powers to freeze the financial accounts of convoy sympathizers who donated to the cause, resulting in a total of $7.8 million frozen from 257 bank and credit union accounts, and 170 bitcoin wallets, as of Feb. 23. Grassroots Movement The report said the number of respondents who spoke positively about the protest versus those who were against it was about the same, with several others who felt unsure. Among those in favour of the protests, it was generally thought the gatherings had been mostly peaceful and that protesters had been unfairly treated by law enforcement and public officials, the researchers wrote. In addition, several participants believed coverage of these protests in media had been almost entirely one-sided and portrayed the demonstrations in a disproportionately negative light. Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino on Feb. 16 told reporters that at the core of the movement is anger, animosity and in far too many cases violence. Findings from the report say convoy supporters saw the protest as a grassroots movement. [Supporters] expressed feeling encouraged and uplifted by what they felt to be a primarily grassroots movement of people coming together from across Canada to protest what they felt to be unfair and unnecessary public health requirements. Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg is seen in Westminster, London, on Sept. 21, 2022. (Rob Pinney/Getty Images) Chinese Firm Blocked From Accessing Key Information About UKs Power Grid The UK government has blocked a Chinese firm from accessing sensitive information about Britains power grid, as concerns grow about Beijings involvement in critical infrastructure in the West. Redrock Investment Limited, a subsidiary of Chinas state-owned State Development & Investment Corporation (SDIC), is set to obtain a 35 percent stake in Electricity North West (ENW), a British operator of the network distributing electricity to the northwest of England. In a final order issued on Sept. 29, Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg said the deal poses a risk to the UKs national security. The government order allows the acquisition to go ahead subject to provisions designed to mitigate the risk to national security. Under conditions imposed by the government, the sharing of information from ENW to Redrock will be restricted. The government also restricted the Chinese state firms influence over appointments of key staff members at ENW. Rees-Mogg said the final order, issued under the UKs new National Security and Investment Act, is necessary and proportionate to mitigate the risk to national security. A spokesperson for ENW said, We note the order from BEIS [Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy] and confirm that we will fully comply with its requirements. A government spokesperson said, The government is required to publish a Final Order Notice when imposing remedies on a particular acquisition, and has done so today. The business secretary has powers under the National Security and Investment Act to intervene in transactions on national security grounds where necessary, the spokesperson added. Security Concerns The move was the latest attempt by the UK government to limit Chinese involvement in UK businesses, especially in critical national infrastructure and in the tech sector. The decision was made under the National Security and Investment Act 2021, which came into force on Jan. 4 in possibly the biggest shake-up of the UKs national security regime in 20 years. The act grants new powers to the government to scrutinise and intervene in certain acquisitions made by anyoneincluding businesses and investorsthat could harm the UKs national security. In July, the then-Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng used the act to block Beijing Infinite Vision Technology Co. from buying vision-sensing technology from the University of Manchester. In August, Kwarteng ruled that the acquisition of Pulsic, a Bristol-based electronic design company, by a Hong Kong-based firm shouldnt proceed, because Pulsics intellectual property and software could be used to facilitate the building of cutting-edge integrated circuits that could be used in a civilian or military supply chain. Under the law, the government is also carrying out an investigation into the takeover of Newport Wafer Fab by Nexperia, a Netherlands-based subsidiary of the Chinese smartphone manufacturer Wingtech Technology. Christians React to California Governors Pro-Abortion Billboards and New Abortion Laws After California Gov. Gavin Newsom placed pro-abortion billboards as part of his reelection campaign advertisements in states restricting abortions, Christians in California are responding. On Sept. 15, Newsom, a Democrat, announced several versions of billboard advertisements that would be going up across seven states. Just launched billboards in 7 of the most restrictive anti-abortion states that explain how women can access careno matter where they live. To any woman seeking an abortion in these anti-freedom states: CA will defend your right to make decisions about your own health, Newsom wrote on Twitter. One of the billboards placed in Oklahoma and Indiana, which reads, Need an abortion? California is ready to help, also included a verse from the Bible, Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no greater commandment than these, citing Mark 12:31. @GovStitt this will be going up in your state. pic.twitter.com/snPcTIZaPv Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 15, 2022 Pastor John MacArthur of Grace Community Church in Los Angeles responded in an open letter to Newsom on Sept. 28, calling the governors actions thoroughly rebellious against God and writing that the billboards promote the slaughter of children, whom He creates in the womb. You further compounded the wickedness of that murderous campaign with a reprehensible act of gross blasphemy, quoting the very words of Jesus from Mark 12:31 as if you could somehow twist His meaning and arrogate His name in favor of butchering unborn infants, MacArthur wrote. MacArthur, 83, also said the inclusion of scripture on the billboards made it hard to imagine a greater sacrilege. Kathleen Domingo, executive director of the California Catholic Conferencea public policy advocacy group for the Catholic Church in Californiatold The Epoch Times that the billboards are unconscionable and co-opt the meaning of the words in the verse. Hes twisting the meaning of what Jesus and the Christian community meant for the last 2,000 years by this particular passage and using it to describe something that the Christian community traditionally has seen as absolutely adverse to their teachings, she said. The advertisements placed in conservative states are nothing more than political theater, according to Domingo. The reaction even of the Christian community is probably what he was hoping for, she said. In the aftermath of Roe v. Wade being overturned on June 24, Californias Democratic lawmakers drafted measures to codify abortion procedures into the states constitution. Newsom signed 13 pieces of legislation that make abortion more accessible on Sept. 27, deeming California to be a sanctuary state for women seeking abortions. This month, California also launched a taxpayer-funded website connecting women with abortion resources and services, including how to seek financial assistance. Newsom is promoting that website on 18 billboards placed in seven states: Oklahoma, Mississippi, South Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, Indiana, and Texas. Each of those states has enacted some restrictions on abortion. An alarming number of states continue to outlaw abortion and criminalize women, and its more important than ever to fight like hell for those who need these essential services, Newsom said in a Sept. 27 statement. Were doing everything we can to protect people from any retaliation for accessing abortion care while also making it more affordable to get contraceptives. Some of the state legislation signed include Senate Bill 1245 by state Sen. Sydney Kamlager, a Democrat; Senate Bill 1375 by state Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, a Democrat; and Assembly Bill 2223 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, a Democrat. SB 1245 allocates $20 million to a Los Angeles County abortion pilot program, and SB 1375 will permit trained nurses to perform abortions in the first trimester without the supervision of a physician. Decried by opponents as an infanticide measure, AB 2223 will shield mothers and certified medical providers from criminal prosecution in infant deaths resulting from causes that occurred in utero up to days after birth. The California Family Councila pro-life, biblically faithful nonprofitalso condemned the governor for signing the abortion measures in a Sept. 27 statement, saying that the move was meant to transform the state into a destination location for the countrys abortions. With todays abortion expansion, Gavin Newsom continues his shadow campaign for [the U.S.] president. By signing these 13 bills from the Future of Abortion Council, Newsom hopes to secure his spot in the White House at the expense of women and their unborn children, Jonathan Keller, the nonprofits president, said in the statement. Governor Newsom tells pregnant women California has their back, but only if they choose to end their pregnancies. This package provides NO care for women who choose to keep their children. Gavins not pro-choice; hes no choice. Students are seen entering school grounds for their first day back of the year in Brisbane, Australia, on Feb, 7, 2022. (AAP Image/Russell Freeman) Classrooms Are a Battleground, Aussie Conservatives Need to Take Action to Reclaim It: Historian Conservatives need to start getting involved in the culture wars to push back on critical race and gender theories being taught to children in classrooms, Bella dAbrera from the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA) said. In an address to CPAC Australia, dAbrera said Australians should learn from the recent Virginian state election and take action to push back on radical ideology being taught in schools. I want to make Australias education great again, she said on Oct. 2. Classrooms are a battleground. This is why we need to fight. DAbrera said parents need to stop being surprised that younger generations were ashamed of Australia considering what they were repeatedly being taught at school. Children are impressionable and if you tell them over and over again that this country is evil, theyre going to believe you, she said. According to a poll commissioned by the IPA, if Australia was in the same position as Ukraine, just 32 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds said they would stay and fight, while 40 percent said they would leave the country. If [Prime Minister] Albanese and his [government] were truly interested in what he called fair dinkum history theyd stop lying by omission and start teaching some positive aspects of Australian history to children, she said. Historian Dr. Bella dAbrera speaks at CPAC Australia in Sydney, Australia, on Oct. 2, 2022. (The Epoch Times) Explain to them how, when the first settlers came to Australia, they brought with them the ethics of Christianity, in particular the notion of the sovereignty and accountabilityaccountability of the individual. DAbrera, who is the director of the IPAs Foundations of Western Civilisation program, said all history should be taught, not just select segments. Nobodys suggesting that they should be ignored or covered up but focusing childrens minds entirely on the mistakes of the past is detrimental to their development and the development of the future of this country, she said. Radical Ideology Propelling Children into Activism In the state of Victoria, the Respectful Relationships Program teaches kids as young as four to think about their gender identity and challenge gender norms. Theyre getting full blown radical gender theory. Theyre being told gender is a social construct, dAbrera said. They hate men. They hate the family. They hate the family structure. They want the state to be in control of the child. And at the moment, the state is in control of the child. As a result of the radical agenda, young Australians are being prematurely propelled into the world of activism without full knowledge of any of the issues at hand or the basic skills to save the world. And when I say basic skills, theyre not being taught how to read, write, or add up, theyre not been taught the basics, dAbrera said. She called on conservatives to get involved in pushing back ideology in the classroom and bring back the focus on teaching literacy and numeracy. Its time for us to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty in the cultural wars. Conservatives have been cowards for far too long, dAbrera said. Everyone goes yes, its a problem then everyone walks away, and the problem gets even worse. Education System Failing Children Since the turn of the century, education standards in Australia have been plummeting in both absolute terms and relative to other countries, despite the 38 percent increase in education funding over the last decade, former Education Minister Alan Tudge said in 2021. In the early 2000s, Australia ranked 4th internationally in reading, 8th in science, and 11th in mathematics. But by 2018, those rankings have dropped to 16th, 17th and 29th, respectively. Were breeding a future of people who cannot read and write, dAbrera said. A recent interim report, published in September by the Productivity Commission, found that between five and nine percent of Australians repeatedly failed to reach the minimum standards in literacy and numeracy each year. It noted that many students who are struggling to keep up fall outside of the priority equity cohortsstudents who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders; live in regional, rural, and remote locations; have a disability; or are from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. While students from priority equity cohorts are disproportionately represented among students who have fallen behind national minimum standards, most underperforming students do not belong to these cohorts, the report said. Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly speaks with members of the media at the Summit of the Americas, in Los Angeles, on June 10, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick) Cory Morgan: Liberals Pending Indo-Pacific Plan Will Fall Short if Main Focus Is Climate Agenda Commentary The Indo-Pacific zone is fast becoming one of the most powerful geopolitical regions on the planet. A hostile communist China is growing increasingly belligerent, while those hoping to counter its force are forming partnerships with regional powers like India. Every country with coastal access to the region is impacted by it and has come up with plans and strategies for dealing with Chinas growing political and economic might. Every country besides Canada, that is. Canada has 27,000 kilometres of coastline along the Pacific Ocean, and two-thirds of Canadas GDP is based on international trade. If any country should be taking developments in the Indo-Pacific region seriously its Canada, yet our foreign affairs department appears to be treating the zone as an afterthought. The United States announced its plan to create a new, comprehensive Indo-Pacific strategy in September 2021 and released it in February 2022. So where is Canadas? Canada talked about creating an Indo-Pacific strategy back in 2020. Foreign Minister Joly said on Sept. 30 the strategy will be released by the end of this year. She said the strategy will be shaped by the outcome of the Chinese Communist Partys national Congress, a weeklong meeting that starts on Oct. 16. That means the strategy isnt even fully crafted yet. China is a growing consumer of Canadas natural resources, while Canada is dependent on China for manufactured goods. With expanded trade comes influence as nations try to discourage Chinese expansionism into Taiwan. Countries such as India and the Philippines are growing, and hungry for Canadian energy products. Canada is well-placed to be an influential player in the politically fluid Indo-Pacific region, it just needs a plan. So what does Minister Joly want to focus on with the plan thats apparently in the works? Climate change, of course. Joly wants to be able to coax China to join Canada in its crusade to reduce greenhouse gases. She feels confident she can convince them to do so at an upcoming UN summit in Montreal. It is safe to say climate change policy is not a top priority for the Beijing regime, which is more interested in superseding a weakened West. The American Indo-Pacific plan is based on five principles. Climate change policy is not among them. Washington understands that political and economic stability must come first. Canada has been left out of key Indo-Pacific initiatives already. In May, Canada was embarrassed as it was left out of the 13-nation Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity spearheaded by President Biden, and Canada was also excluded from the Quad, a joint security alliance of Pacific nations. This is becoming a pattern. With its abundance of natural resources, Canada is well-positioned to prosper by supplying the world with clean, ethical products, but it wont be able to do so until it has national leadership that is taken seriously on the world stage. Ineptitude on the world stage in recent years has relegated Canada to the kiddie table at international summits. Our lack of an Indo-Pacific strategy at such a critical juncture in history is yet another embarrassment setting us back on the world stage. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. The logo of Swiss bank Credit Suisse at an office building in Zurich on Sept. 2, 2022. (Arnd Wiegmann/Reuters) Credit Suisse Shares Slip Despite Moves to Soothe Investor Concerns ZURICHCredit Suisse shares slid by as much as 11.5 percent and its bonds hit record lows on Monday amid concerns about the banks ability to revamp its business and bolster its capital after a string of losses precipitated a strategy reboot. Chief Executive Ulrich Koerner last week told staff that Credit Suisse, whose market capitalization dropped to a record low of 9.73 billion Swiss francs ($9.85 billion) on Monday, has solid capital and liquidity. The bank plans to unveil its restructuring plan with third-quarter earnings on Oct. 27. On Monday, Credit Suisse CDS soared higher again, adding 105 basis points from Fridays close to trade at 355 bps, their highest level in at least more than two decades. The banks CDS stood at 57 bps at the start of the year. Meanwhile the lenders international bonds also showed the strain. Credit Suisses euro-denominated bonds dropped to record lows, with longer-dated bonds suffering the sharpest declines, though clawed back some losses in the afternoon. The shares, down by more than half this year, came off early lows and were down 0.4 percent at 3.96 Swiss francs at 1500 GMT. In July, Credit Suisse announced its second strategy review in a year and replaced its CEO, bringing in restructuring expert Koerner to scale back investment banking and cut more than $1 billion in costs. The bank is considering measures to scale back its investment bank into a capital-light, advisory-led business, and is evaluating strategic options for the Securitized Products business, Credit Suisse has said. Liquidity Healthy JPMorgan analysts said in a research note on Monday that based on its financials at the end of the second quarter, they view Credit Suisses capital and liquidity as healthy. Given the bank has indicated a near-term intention to keep its CET1 capital ratio at 1314 percent, the second-quarter end ratio is well within that range and the liquidity coverage ratio is well above requirements, the analysts added. Credit Suisse had total assets of 727 billion Swiss francs ($735.68 billion) at the end of the second quarter, of which 159 billion francs was cash and due from banks, while 101 billion francs was trading assets, it noted. Still, investors are questioning how much capital the bank may need to raise to fund the cost of a restructuring, analysts at Jefferies wrote in a note to clients on Monday. Also, the bank is now potentially a forced seller of assets, they said. Deutsche Bank analysts in August estimated a capital shortfall of at least 4 billion francs. Over the past three quarters alone, Credit Suisses losses have added up to nearly 4 billion Swiss francs. Given the uncertainties, the banks financing costs have surged. ($1 = 0.9882 Swiss francs) By Oliver Hirt and Michael Shields Sixteen Capitol Police officers are led down the east steps of the Capitol by members of the Oath Keepers on Jan. 6. (Courtesy of Roberto Minuta) Defense Seeks Remote Deposition of Oath Keepers Expert on Groups Longstanding Role Providing Security Defense attorneys want to depose a retired U.S. Army colonel and test pilotamong the longest serving members of the Oath Keepersregarding the groups long-standing role in providing security at events, civil disturbances, and natural disasters. Retired Col. John Siemens, 76, would provide exculpatory testimony benefitting the five defendants in the Oath Keepers seditious-conspiracy trial, but cannot come to Washington due to seriously declining health, attorneys said. Two attorneys for Oath Keepers defendant Kelly Meggs petitioned U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta for permission to take a deposition from Siemens in Texas, where he is convalescing after suffering two strokes and two heart attacks. Mehta took the motion under advisement on Oct. 3, the day of opening arguments in the trial that is expected to last into early November. A member of the Oath Keepers with Natalie DuBose, owner of Natalies Cakes and More, one of the businesses guarded by the Oath Keepers in Ferguson, Mo., in 2014. (Wayback Machine/Screenshot via The Epoch Times) The motion describes Siemens as the most important organizer for many Oathkeeper [sic] operations and events, yet prosecutors did not contact him or take his statement. Siemens joined the Oath Keepers in 2015 and has served as acting president since the January 2022 arrest of founder Elmer Stewart Rhodes III. He is a senior vice president for the Oath Keepers, according to court records. Nowhere in the operative indictment does the government acknowledge that the Oath Keepers, including Mr Meggs, had provided security services at numerous events, including for Roger Stone in Florida, at protests surrounding the death of Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky, and in Washington D.C., the motion said. Siemens was a participant on a Nov. 9, 2020, GoTo Meeting teleconference that was allegedly the start of the Oath Keepers conspiracy to attack the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, the document said. He was also a participant in numerous Oath Keepers encrypted chat sessions using the computer app Signal, the motion said. Siemens has not been charged in the Capitol unrest. The government does not otherwise appear to have made contact with Mr Siemens or obtained any information concerning his role with the Oath Keepers, wrote Stanley Woodward, an attorney for Meggs. Siemens can provide significant background on security provided by the Oath Keepers going back to 2017, the motion said. Siemens can testify that between October 2019 and November 2019, the Oath Keepers were recruited to assist with security details for Trump rallies in Texas and Mississippi, Woodward wrote. Further, Mr Siemens can testify that, because of the Oath Keepers reputation for providing a competent security detail, beginning in [sic] May 9, 2020, Mr Siemens repeatedly provided the security detail for Allen West, then-chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. The Oath Keepers say their purpose in Washington on Jan. 6 was to provide event security and escort VIPs between President Donald Trumps speech at the Ellipse and the venues where they were scheduled to speak. Prosecutors allege the Oath Keepers conspired to preventby force if necessary the certification of the 2020 presidential election results by a joint session of Congress. They contend a cache of weapons brought to the area by Oath Keepers and stored at a Virginia hotel were to be used in attacking the Capitol. The Oath Keepers say the weapons were there in case Trump invoked the Insurrection Act and called up a militia to defend the White House against a threatened attack by Antifa. The Oath Keepers Quick Reaction Forces (QRFs) were intended to help rescue and extract VIPs or other Oath Keepers if there was significant trouble at any of the events. Oath Keepers was founded in early 2009 by Rhodes, a former U.S. Army paratrooper and onetime aide to U.S. Rep. Ron Paul. The group is intended for anyone who took an oathsuch as military, law enforcement, and first respondersto defend the Constitution from all enemies, foreign and domestic. The Oath Keepers website advertised the groups mission to Washington days before Jan. 6, 2021. (Wayback Machine/Screenshot via The Epoch Times) Oath Keepers served as a volunteer security force in the wake of 2014 rioting in and around Ferguson, Missouri. The area experienced violence and arson after the death of a black man, Michael Brown, by Darren Wilson, a white police officer. Oath Keepers came from around the country to protect small businesses from rioters and looters. One of them was Natalies Cakes and More, a bakery owned by Natalie DuBose that was vandalized by rioters. Oath Keepers guarded that and other storefronts, and had armed members on the rooftops. The failure to depose Siemens was one of the reasons Rhodes sought to fire his two Texas-based attorneys three weeks before the trial. Judge Mehta would not allow it, but approved Rhodes new attorney, Edward Tarpley, as co-counsel. Siemenss testimony will corroborate the assertion that the Oath Keepers have long served to provide security services as well as disaster relief, including having provided security for rallies in Ferguson, Missouri and Louisville, Kentucky; assistance with border patrol operations; engagement with local law enforcement as community liaisons, as well as hurricane and disaster relief in Houston and Puerto Rico, Woodward wrote. His testimony would undermine the governments assertion that the Oath Keepers had no lawful purpose for being in Washington D.C.; that the Oath Keepers organization is a violent, anti-government organization; and establish the Oath Keepers organizations prior lawful involvement as security detail for Trump presidential campaigning events and other similar rallies, the motion said. Siemens, who lives near San Antonio, is a graduate of the Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base and earned a diploma from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. He served as a defense contractor test pilot and was a test pilot for Cessna for nearly three decades. In this picture provided by Swedish Coast Guard, a small release from Nord Stream 2 is seen, Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022. (Swedish Coast Guard via AP) Denmark Says Nord Stream 1 Pipelines Stop Leaking HELSINKIAuthorities in Denmark said Sunday that the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipelines have also stopped leaking, a day after officials said that the ruptured Nord Stream 2 pipelines also appeared to stop leaking. The Nord Stream AG company informed the Danish Energy Agency that a stable pressure now appears to have been achieved on the Nord Stream 1 pipelines. The Nord Stream AG company has informed the Danish Energy Agency that a stable pressure now appears to have been achieved on the two Nord Stream 1 pipelines. This indicates that the blowout of gas from the last two leaks has now also been completed, the Danish agency wrote on Twitter Sunday. The Danish agency said Saturday the Nord Stream 2 ruptured natural gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea appears to have stopped leaking natural gas. Undersea blasts that damaged the Nord Stream I and 2 pipelines this week have led to huge methane leaks. Nordic investigators said the blasts have involved several hundred pounds of explosives. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of sabotaging the Russia-built pipelines, a charge denied by the United States and its allies. The U.S.Russia clashes continued later at an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council in New York called by Russia on the pipelines attacks and as Norwegian researchers published a map projecting that a huge plume of methane from the damaged pipelines will travel over large swaths of the Nordic region. The Office of the former President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian issued a statement calling the latest atrocities of Azerbaijani armed forces against Armenian prisoners of war a war crime. October 3, 2022, 16:40 Ex-President of Armenia calls on intl community, institutions to give proper and targeted response to Azeri war crimes STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: The continuous atrocities by the Azerbaijani armed forces against Armenian prisoners of war are a war crime. The international community and institutions should give a proper and targeted response to those crimes, the statement says. California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday signed a bill that subjects the states doctors to discipline, including the suspension of their medical licenses, for sharing misinformation or disinformation about COVID-19 with their patients. This article was originally published by The Defender Childrens Health Defenses News & Views Website California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday signed a bill that subjects the states doctors to discipline, including the suspension of their medical licenses, for sharing misinformation or disinformation about COVID-19 with their patients. California Assembly Bill 2098 (AB 2098) defines misinformation as false information that is contradicted by contemporary scientific consensus contrary to the standard of care and disinformation as misinformation that the licensee deliberately disseminated with malicious intent or an intent to mislead. Newsom said the law applies only to physicians speech with patients during discussions directly related to COVID-19 treatment. Language in the bill points out that the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) has warned that physicians who spread misinformation or disinformation risk losing their medical license, and have a duty to provide their patients with accurate, science-based information. The FSMB, as previously reported by The Defender, takes money from Big Pharma and has a history of challenging and attacking non-pharmaceutical medical approaches used by integrative doctors as falling outside the standard of care as they define it. Commenting on Newsoms decision to sign the controversial AB 2098, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Childrens Health Defense (CHD) chairman and chief legal counsel, said the law fundamentally changes the sacred relationship between physician and patient that has existed since Hippocrates. Kennedy added: Under the new rubric, the doctor no longer serves the best interest of the patient but acts as an agent of state policy. History is replete with nightmarish examples of what happens when doctors stop healing and act instead to advance the greater good. Governments have variously cited that phrase to justify euthanasia of the elderly, mental defectives, homosexuals and other useless eaters and to enforce one-child policies. When governments start practicing medicine, the story never ends well. AB 2098 was introduced in mid-February by California Assemblymember Evan Low one of seven Democratic lawmakers who in January formed the Vaccine Work Group to develop legislation promoting the use of COVID-19 vaccines while battling misinformation. The bill passed the California Assembly in May, and the California Senate in late August. The American Medical Association (AMA), which strongly supports the bill, hopes other states will follow suit in ensuring that licensing boards have the authority to take disciplinary action against health professionals for spreading health-related disinformation, according to a new policy adopted at its mid-June annual meeting aimed at addressing public health disinformation. The AMAs adopted policy expanded on prior efforts and called for the organization to work with health professional societies and other relevant organizations to implement a comprehensive strategy to address health-related disinformation disseminated by health professionals. Tool for Enforcing Propaganda and Censorship Policies Approved by State The Defender reached out to numerous physicians who support informed consent and medical freedom. Heres what they told us. The Golden State has declared its intent with the passage and signing of AB 2098 to effectively muzzle physicians in regards to COVID-speak. Physicians were reticent prior to the passage of this draconian bill to speak on behalf of their patients. With looming threats of loss of livelihood, it is unlikely that any physician will speak out at this juncture. For those physicians still willing to throw down the gauntlet, a mass exodus from California will likely ensue But the largest concern is regarding our children. Parents will not be able to depend on medical professionals and need to protect their own children against ill-advised experimental therapies. This bill will not only remove healthy discourse but will further divide our communities. Dr. Sanjay Verma, California-based cardiologist, said: Even in the best of times, standard of care emerges after years of reproducible research. Even when multiple trials support the generation of new practice guidelines, often years pass before the new practice guidelines are adopted and implemented in community centers. In a rapidly evolving pandemic resulting from a new virus there is all the more reason to insist on the passage of time before codifying prevailing norms into enforceable policies. Throughout the pandemic, contrarian scientific voices have been subjected to censure and censorship. However, often these very perspectives were later proven to be irrefutably true . Informed consent requires the discussion of risks, benefits and alternatives to any medical intervention. CA AB 2098 enables medical board disciplinary action for perspectives that challenges the accuracy and thoroughness of CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] and FDA [U.S. Food and Drug Administraton] safety monitoring. That itself will cause patient harm. Science demands open and transparent debate. Throughout the history of modern medicine there are numerous examples in which the contrarian view led to advances in knowledge and in reassessing product post-market safety. CA AB 2098 is the wrong approach to improving trust in public health and maximizing adoption of rational, risk-stratified, evidence-based mitigation efforts during a pandemic that indubitably caused tremendous morbidity and mortality. Dr. Liz Mumper, Virginia-based pediatrician and medical advisor to CHD, said: I am despondent that AB 2098 is now law. Misinformation is not defined. Scientific truth evolves over time what is labeled as todays misinformation may be tomorrows ingenious breakthrough. I worry that excellent physicians who discuss early treatments for COVID or weigh risks versus benefits of the jabs will flee the state. Dr. Robert Malone, Virginia-based physician, biochemist and infectious disease researcher, said: This bill will primarily act as a strong incentive for all independent-thinking physicians and other medical care providers to migrate their practices to other states. It creates yet another social engineering policy that will be weaponized by any person with an axe to grind against any physician or medical provider in the state by filing accusations, which will then have to be investigated and litigated, functionally creating a medical Stasi. This is clearly a tool for enforcing propaganda and censorship policies approved by the state of California. Dr. Peter McCullough, Texas-based internist and cardiologist, said: As a medical expert treating patients with COVID-19 and vaccine injury syndromes, I anticipate AB 2098 will cause physicians to retract from treating such patients. AB 2098 makes it impossible for healthcare providers to have honest and fully informed conversations about the rapidly evolving pandemic and the health problems it has brought to Californians. This new law hurts the most vulnerable at a time when they need their physicians to be honest and forthright. California is on a slippery slope of medical totalitarianism. Dr. Madhava Setty, Massachusetts-based anesthesiologist and senior science editor of The Defender, said: I am not surprised by the passage of AB 2098. Our authorities have been hinting at making this kind of move for two years, from the time sufficient evidence of the effectiveness of early treatment was dismissed and suppressed in 2020. The Newsom administration fails to see that the passage of this bill into law will deliver a potentially fatal blow to our public health agencies already plummeting credibility. Why would anyone believe statements from the CDC if they cannot be openly challenged? Why should we trust the regulatory decisions of the FDA if they cannot be questioned? Its obvious that this bill was proposed and codified into law because the number of physicians in California that are spreading misinformation is rapidly growing. This is a desperate attempt to squelch scientific debate, and it will eventually backfire. Its only a matter of time before California physicians will see this as an unjust attack on their colleagues and the medical profession as a whole. Dr. Meryl Nass, Maine-based internist and biological warfare epidemiologist and member of the Childrens Health Defense scientific advisory committee, said: Clearly it is of the utmost importance to the newest world order that all challenges to the public health COVID narrative be destroyed. Doctors, who have authority to speak about such things, must be made to speak in one voice. But the practice of medicine is regulated at the state level, not at the federal level. So doctors must be controlled by the states. For patients who want the right to obtain honest information from their physicians and want to have choices regarding their medical treatment, now is the time to speak up. The screws are tightening. This could be your last chance. This article was originally published by The Defender Childrens Health Defenses News & Views Website under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Please consider subscribing to The Defender or donating to Childrens Health Defense. Dr. Andrew Wakefield, Truth Teller, Cancelled for Publishing Clinical Case Study of Possible Autism/MMR Vaccine Link In an Epoch Health podcast, our very own Dr. Ann Corson spoke with Dr. Andrew Wakefield on the transformational trajectory of his professional career from a distinguished surgeon and scientific researcher in the gastrointestinal field to a critically acclaimed filmmaker. Dr. Wakefield spoke about his relocation to the United States after being defamed in his own country as a result of a clinical case study he and 12 other authors published in The Lancet in 1998. The paper suggested a possible link between the MMR vaccine and autism that needed further research. In this podcast, Dr. Wakefield tells us the stories behind his films Who Killed Alex Spourdalakis?, Vaxxed: From Cover-Up to Catastrophe, and 1986, The Act. Wakefield graduated in 1981 from the prestigious St. Marys Hospital Medical School in London and in 1985 became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons as a gastrointestinal surgeon with a specialty in inflammatory bowel disease. He was later accepted into the Royal College of Pathologists and led a research team of 19 people investigating inflammatory bowel disease. He later relocated to Austin, Texas, where he co-founded and worked at the Thoughtful House Center for Children, now called the Johnson Center for Child Health and Development, an organization dedicated to the advancement of the understanding of childhood development through clinical care, research, and education. Dr. Wakefield has given numerous presentations and speeches across the globe and is an activist for autism research and vaccine safety awareness. His first feature length film was released in 2014. Dr. Corson has four decades of clinical practice. Her patient population includes people who are immunocompromised due conditions like Lyme disease and mold-induced illness. She treats with an integrative approach and is known internationally for her success. Dr. Corson grew up in southeastern Pennsylvania and obtained the Doctor of Medicine degree in 1982 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. She was board certified in Family Medicine in 1993 and in Integrative Holistic Medicine in 2011. Today, she has a solo practice in Philadelphia and cares deeply about medical ethics and humanity. In 2008, she joined the non-profit organization Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) and currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of DAFOHs e-newsletter. Before the 1998 Lancet Paper Dr. Andrew Wakefield is perhaps one of the most misrepresented scientists of the late 20th century. From a long line of doctors, he was the 6th generation of his family to attend the prestigious St. Marys Hospital Medical School of the Imperial College London, famous as the place Dr. Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, among other things. Wakefield, after being certified as a surgical gastroenterologist, developed a research interest in inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease. Wakefield put together a research team about 19 strong, working at the Royal Free Hospital in North London, part of the University of London, and [they] published [works on the origins of the aforementioned conditions]. Wakefield began researching the link between measles and Crohns disease, publishing a paper in the Lancet on the topic in 1994. Subsequently, he was approached by parents who believed that MMR vaccines had triggered gastrointestinal and developmental problems in their children. Wakefield remembered that in 1995, because of the work [he] was doing, I started getting a series of calls, starting with a very articulate, intelligent, [and] professional mother who said that [her] child was developing perfectly normally [until] he had his MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine is a vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella, combined into one injection. The child was ultimately diagnosed with autism, and Wakefield said he knew nothing about autism at all. It was so rare when I was at medical school that we werent even taught about it. The estimate was probably one in 10,000 children [had it at that time]. Wakefield said the child had developed severe gastrointestinal issues with recurring diarrhea about 10-12 times a day and other symptoms that indicated severe bowel inflammation. What fascinated him was when [his team] treated [children with] this bowel disease as inflammation with standard inflammatory bowel disease medications, not only was there an improvement in the childrens gastrointestinal problems, but there was an improvement in their autism as well. We didnt cure autism. But the children started using words they hadnt used for five years. It was extraordinary. This mother was not the only one who reached out to Wakefield for help, so he put together a team of brilliant researchers to investigate the connection between the MMR vaccine and potential side effects. At the same time, Wakefields team helped various children suffering with similar problems to see if the improvements seen with treatment were repeatable. He told Dr. Corson that [they] did it again by the time I left [the UK in the early 2000s], the team had done it 180 times [with] different children. And it worked virtually every time. And my colleagues, even my colleagues in this investigation team, said to me, [they, as pediatricians] cannot question the safety of [the] MMR vaccine. But that meant nothing to me. That wasnt a medical point of view and it wasnt a scientific point of view What about the children who are suffering? What about the children sitting across the desk from you, to whom you have a primary responsibility, not to your reputation [or] how your colleagues might perceive [me], so there was [a falling out] on this issue and I decided that I had absolutely no choice, according to my professional training and my humanitarian view of the world, [but] to do this job. I did, and that was really the beginning of the end of my medical career. In 1998, Wakefield, Professor John Walker-Smith, and 11 additional scientists, published an observational study in the Lancet detailing their findings from the first 12 children who experienced similar gastrointestinal symptoms. Wakefield claims [the study] could draw no conclusions other than further work needs to be done. But of course, the media has portrayed this paper as claiming that the [MMR] vaccine causes autism. No, it did not. But I took the view and this is why they went after me. I had to investigate this [further], which I did. And that threatened the vaccine industry, threatened their bottom line and threatened government policy. It threatened international vaccine policy. And clearly, it was perceived as a huge threat. So they came after me. James Murdoch was appointed to the board of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Europes biggest MMR manufacturer, as a non-executive director and his job was to protect that companys name and reputation in the media to come after me, which he did rather effectively. GSK hired a journalist by the name of Brian Deer to go after Wakefield by publishing a series of defaming papers, articles, and even a book, all in an attempt to completely destroy him professionally and personally. As a result, the Lancet paper was retracted and Wakefield was stripped of his credentials and medical license. False claims against him still appear today. Legal action was taken by Wakefield against Deer in 2020. Wakefields Pivotal Career Change Wakefields career, however, underwent a pivotal transformation that resulted in him testifying before the United States Congress in 2000. Wakefield recalled giving a series of talks at autism meetings in the United States, describing them as a fascinating experience as the vast majority of autism conference attendees were parents of vaccine injured children. I presented the information to them, and as a consequence the Chairman of the Congressional Oversight Committee at that time, [Congressman] Dan Burton, was himself the grandfather of a vaccine injured child with severe autism. And so there was a series of hearings on autism under the direction of that Congressman at that time but unfortunately, it doesnt seem that much came out of those. Subsequently, Wakefield set up an autism center in Austin, Texas that is still in operation today. To continue the work, I had to lose my country, my career my license, and all those things. But that was part of the deal, I guess, for getting the work done or continuing the work. Eventually, they managed to stop me from working in the United States of America, yet what happened over the years is that people that come to me from the pharmaceutical industry, vaccine manufacturers and from federal agencies, like the CDC, with extraordinary tales of committing fraud. They would come to me and say, we can trust you. Weve done a terrible thing and heres the evidence. So I had these extraordinary stories, insider stories, whistleblower stories, and I decided that it was time to turn these into film. Wakefield started a show in collaboration with the Autism File Magazine which turned into a reality TV series until one particular case turned him into a full feature documentary filmmaker. In his TV series, Wakefield was following various children who were profoundly autistic, who had severe gastrointestinal problems and the point was to get them diagnosed and treated. Through healing the child, you could also see how they healed the family as well. One day we were called in to see one child in Chicago at the time he was in four point lock restraints, chained to the bed, and [being] given up to 28 psychotropic medications. It was an absolute disaster [we] went to help get him out of there [driving] him through the night to New York, where he was investigated, his underlying bowel disease diagnosed and [he was placed] on the right treatment. Things were going well. But his mother was estranged from her husband and had nowhere permanent to live with her son and his godmother in Chicago. Wakefield said that every time the child heard sirens, he would have a traumatic flashback which ended in a complete, physical meltdown. He would damage the motel room, they would be thrown out, and need to find another motel. The child ended up in the same psychiatric hospital, was placed on multiple drugs and chained to the bed, which still didnt control his anger. There was another rescue attempt, yet his insurance expired halfway through the process. The hospital then took off his restraints, took out his IV, and they put him on the street. A week later, his mother stabbed him to death, and the mother and godmother tried to take their own lives. This was portrayed in the media as a crazy mother who hated her child and wanted him dead. Nothing could have been further from the truth. This was a mother who had gone above and beyond for this boy and was now in a state of utter despair. This boy was Alex Spourdalakis. At that time, he was 17, probably 260 pounds, strong and aggressive, Wakefield said, and the burden of the child was too much for the mother and godmother to handle. We had all this footage, we shot the whole thing, and we realized that we had the ability to tell the truth. What really happened here, who was really responsible? Four years after the mother was placed in prison for murder, the Chicago prosecutor reached out to Wakefield and asked for a copy of the film. The mother was then released from prison; the first time in U.S. legal history that a film resulted in an overturned conviction. Wakefield said, this was an extraordinary story it [also made me realize] the power of film, how film, [when] handled properly, told truthfully, can change things dramatically. And so thats when I shifted from this bit of reality show into full length feature films. Alexs story became Wakefields first film, Who Killed Alex Spourdilakis? Wakefield then decided to cover the CDCs 2004 cover-up of the connection between the MMR vaccine and autism. A senior CDC scientist by the name of William Thompson cracked under the strain of having perpetrated this fraud and [told Dr. Brian Hooker] weve done a terrible thing. Heres the evidence [that] my colleagues destroyed their documents to cover this up. I realized that was against the law and so I kept mine and here they are. So [my team and I] put together this extraordinary story of the CDC, deliberately, wantonly, and recklessly putting American children and by proxy, children around the world in harms way in the way of a permanent serious neurological disease in order to protect themselves and to protect the vaccine program. This is how the film Vaxxed: From Cover-Up to Catastrophe, came to be. The film was submitted to The Tribeca Film Festival in New York. It was accepted, yet pulled a few weeks before the festival started because of threats from funders. This was the first time [that a feature] had been pulled from an independent film festival in this way [For] about three days I thought my film career was over Then on the third day, Robert De Niro (one of The Tribeca Film Festival founders) went on Good Morning America and said, We should not have done that. We made a mistake, everybody should see this film. We did a bad thing. Suddenly it exploded worldwide if it had played at Tribeca, [maybe] 100 people would have seen it and big deal. This way, millions of people saw it. Wakefield also talked about his film, 1986: The Act which is about how an act passed by the U.S. Congress in 1986 effectively gave liability protection to the pharmaceutical [industry], the vaccine manufacturers [from] death and injury caused by their vaccines that were on the CDC recommended schedule. Wakefield explained that the act was meant to do three things: it was meant to make vaccines safer by furthering research; it was meant to compensate children who had been injured; and it was [meant] to offer manufacturers a degree of liability protection The reason for that is [they came] to the government and said something like, Look, were getting sued. You want kids to have these vaccines, its not a big profit center for us. Unless you assume liability, take it away from us, we will stop making these vaccines, children will die and itll be down to you. How do you feel [about that]? so the government panicked they were open to this kind of blackmail from the pharmaceutical industry. 1986: The Act is special to Wakefield in that it took an incredibly complex piece of legislation and explained it in a manner most people could easily understand. The documentary features a husband and wife discussing the pros and cons of vaccinating their unborn child and the ramifications of the 1986 act. Wakefield also briefly introduced his recent documentary film Infertility: A Diabolical Agenda that exposes how Kenyan women were given a tetanus shot that was actually an anti-fertility vaccine. Another movie is underway, which will keep him quite busy in the weeks to come. Before the podcast with Dr. Corson, Wakefield had just finished a pre-production meeting with Terry Rossio, screenwriter for Shrek, Aladdin, the Pirates of the Caribbean series, discussing their upcoming film. Conclusion Wakefield remarked that My training was to listen. The art [of medicine] which is largely lost now to the quasi science of medicine the ability of the doctor to listen, without bias, and to glean from the patients story the origin of their disorder that is the art of medicineWhy is that so important? Because almost invariably, that will lead you to the cause of the problem. If you listen to a mother about what is wrong with her child, no one knows that child like the mother if she tells you something in all sincerity, she wasnt anti-vaccine, [she] took her child to be vaccinated on time, she is merely reporting this is what happened, that is where your starting point is in clinical medicine. This was Dr. Wakefields starting point in 1994 and is still his starting point for every issue he tackles, with great mastery, to this day. Dr. Ann Corson MD Follow Dr. Corson obtained her MD degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA in 1982 and is board certified in Family Medicine and Integrative Holistic Medicine. Her solo practice in Philadelphia, PA is devoted full time to the treatment of patients suffering from all forms of chronic disease. In 2008, Dr. Corson joined Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) to help raise awareness of Chinas live forced organ harvesting of innocent prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners. Since 2016, she has been editor-in-chief of DAFOHs newsletter. Supporters of President Donald Trump demonstrate outside of the TCF Center to protest the counting of votes for the 2020 general election in Detroit, Mich., on Nov. 6, 2020. (Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images) Election Fraud Issues Are Not Limited to Swing States Election integrity issues in South Dakota Commentary Despite 20 months of nonstop Democrat and sycophantic media claims that the 2020 election was the most secure in American history, shocking evidence of election integrity failures continues to be exposed in several states. Some examples: On Sept. 21, Fulton County (Pennsylvania) filed a breach of contract lawsuit against Dominion Voting Systems based on a report that determined that the countys log files contain an external IP address located in Quebec, Canada, and that an unauthorized python script had been installed after the certification date. The Epoch Times reported on Sept. 22 that a watchdog group reported 350,000 inaccuracies in Wisconsins voter roll, including 12,555 registered voters addresses [in Milwaukee County that] are listed as vacant by the U.S. Postal Service. An election security forum, held on July 29 in Maricopa County, disclosed the names of the election workers who illegally deleted elections files from the Elections Management Server in April 2021 in defiance of a subpoena from the Arizona state senate. Gregory Stenstrom, a certified poll watcher for 36 precincts in Pennsylvania during the 2020 election, gave a firsthand account of how the 2020 election was stolen in Delaware County by a cabal of Democrat activists and establishment GOP politicians in a new book he co-authored, titled The Parallel Election. According to The Gateway Pundit, Dominion Voting machines in El Paso County, Colorado, have reportedly produced large numbers of adjudications in their Logic and Accuracy test for the upcoming hand recount of the 2022 Primary election. An independent journalist personally witnessed and recorded (via video/picture) suspected fraud at Colorados El Paso County Clerk and Recorder office during the machine recount process of the primary election that was conducted on July 31. Republican Party organizations in various states have voted to reject and rescind the 2020 election because it was fraudulent and stolen, including the Texas GOP (during their state convention), Cass County and Alcona County GOP in Michigan, the Maricopa County GOP, Arizona GOP, Montana GOP, and several Wisconsin counties. As previously reported by The Epoch Times, the Election Integrity Network has developed into a nationwide mobilization base and knowledge-sharing platform that operates at national, state, and local levels to work on election integrity initiatives, such as pushing legislation for voting security, hiring more poll watchers and election officials, and examining potential loopholes in election administration processes. No wonder there is traction across the United States on local election integrity efforts! And then, there are these results from a nationwide Rasmussen poll on election integrity that indicate that election integrity concerns are very important to voters in the run-up to the midterm elections in November: Fifty-two percent of Likely U.S. voters believe it is at least somewhat likely that cheating affected the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. Fifty percent think it is at least somewhat likely there will be widespread cheating that will affect the outcome of the midterm elections. Fifty-eight percent think its at least somewhat likely that wider use of mail-in voting will lead to more cheating in elections. President Joe Bidens strongest supporters are least concerned about cheating in elections. That last bullet point is no surprise, as election lawyers from the Democrat National Committee have sued to prevent state audits since November 2020. One wonders: if the Democrats truly believed that the 2020 election was the most secure in American history, then they would be only too happy to conduct a few audits to prove that to the American people. Election officials count absentee ballots in Milwaukee, Wis., on Nov. 4, 2020. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) Lastly, The Federalist reported how swing states did not follow their election laws in 2020, such as expanding drop boxes, which fueled ballot harvesting. But it is not just swing states that had problems. And there are other election integrity/fraud issues besides bad registration rolls, illegal drop boxes, and failure of election machines logic and accuracy tests. Take, for example, the novel way to steal a local election that was recently uncovered by a citizens election integrity group in South Dakota called South Dakota Canvassing Group (SD Canvass). At a press conference on Sept. 20 in Sioux Falls, SD Canvass disclosed findings from local canvassing in South Dakota, including hundreds of signed affidavits by registered voters indicating ghost votes, lost votes, and stolen votes. A key disclosure centered around a mail-forwarding operation that appears to have been used to pad votes for a county official. Bruce Kjetland, a county commissioner in Hanson County, has allegedly been running a mail-forwarding business to collect personal information from people that may have been used to generate fraudulent absentee ballots from people who were not South Dakota residents. A mail-forwarding operation is one in which an individual offers the use of a designated addressa business, residence, postal addressto out-of-staters interested in establishing a mailing address in a particular state for tax purposes and other reasons. For example, South Dakota has no state income tax, no personal property tax on vehicles, and no vehicle inspections are required. Voter registration of these so-called motor-voters has been lightly enforced throughout the state. South Dakotas voter registration form (downloadable here) contains these two key fields: If Residence Address is a PO Box, rural box, or general delivery, you must give the location of your residence. I declare under penalty of perjury and (2 years imprisonment and $4,000 fine) that I actually live at and have no intention of leaving the above address. Thus, any motor-voter who registers to vote in South Dakota must have a permanent South Dakota residence in order to do so. Furthermore, South Dakota state law (SDCL 12-4-7.2) states that the duty of the county auditor and other designated officials is to ensure that every block of the voter registration form is filled out completely. The Hanson County commissioner was able to sponsor 1,454 registered voters from his mail-forwarding business address. Did those voters all have valid South Dakota residences? A crowd gathers at the State Capitol in Sacramento to protest against the statewide lockdown and election fraud on Nov. 28, 2020. (Ilene Eng/The Epoch Times) Publicly available election information obtained from the Hanson County auditor showed that approximately 65 percent of the votes for Kjetland during the June primary election and November general election in 2020 were received from absentee ballots. Specifically, of the 199 total votes cast in the June 2022 primary election, 107 of the ballots cast came from Kjetlands mail-forwarding business address located in Emery, South Dakota (population 540). Not coincidentally, Kjetland won his primary race over Travis Kamshoff 121-78. With respect to the 2020 general election, the South Dakota secretary of state recorded 756 votes cast from that mail-forwarding address on Nov. 3, 2020 (of the 1,454 voters registered to that single address!). The voters who ostensibly voted from this address were subsequently canvassed by SD Canvass. Over 80 percent were not reachable by phone. The canvassing results: Ten voters stated that they did not vote in the 2020 election. Four voters are deceased. Two lost votes or cast a vote but had none recorded for them. Twenty-eight are not South Dakota residents and registered to vote in other states. Affidavits have been subsequently received from people whose names were on those ballots who denied completing and mailing them in. These affidavits would appear to be clear evidence of election fraud. In short, from the evidence collected by SD Canvass, Kjetland apparently perpetrated an election scheme that enabled him to sign and submit fraudulent absentee ballots and subsequently be illegally elected over the will of the people in his county. The information collected by SD Canvass in Hanson County, as well as voter irregularities that were uncovered in several other counties, has been forwarded via the various county sheriffs to the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation for further investigation. Concluding Thoughts Based on continuing revelations surrounding election integrity in several states across the United Statesincluding questions about voting irregularities during the 2020 elections and subsequent primary electionspolls continue to show that Americans remain concerned about election security issues in their states. Regarding the mail-forwarding scheme uncovered by SD Canvass in Hanson County, what is the likelihood that that operation was/is a one-of-a-kind initiative that was only used in a tiny county in red state South Dakota? Slim and none. Meanwhile, the Democrats (and others) continue to claim that 2020 was the most secure election ever. Riiiiiight. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. The Russian Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines have been destroyed and nations are pointing fingers over who is responsible. NATO claims sabotage was involved, while Russia has come out blaming the West. The destruction is now being used in war propaganda and could have broad repercussions. Meanwhile, the world is facing an energy crisis, which in Europe is coming to the fore as winter approaches. The loss of the Nord Stream pipelines are also causing anger over high energy costs and shortages. In this live Q&A with Crossroads host Joshua Philipp well discuss these stories and others, and answer questions from the audience. Subscribe to the new Crossroads newsletter and stay up-to-date! *Big thanks to our sponsor Sekur! Use promo Code JOSHUA for 25% off at https://www.sekur.com The Real Story of Jan. 6 Documentary102 Minutes, Color The Real Story of Jan. 6, a documentary by The Epoch Times, reveals the truth that has been hidden from the American people. While a narrative has been set that what took place that day was an insurrection, key events and witnesses have been ignored, until now. The Real Story DVD: https://www.epochtv.shop/product-page/dvd-the-real-story-of-january-6 , Promo Code Joshua for 20% off * Click the Save button below the video to access it later on My List. Donate to Support Crossroads: https://donorbox.org/crossroads Crossroads merchandise: https://www.epochtv.shop Follow Crossroads on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Crossroads.Josh Twitter: https://twitter.com/crossroads_josh Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Crossroads_JoshuaPhilipp Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@crossroads_josh Gettr: https://www.gettr.com/user/crossroads_josh Gab: https://gab.com/Crossroads_Josh Telegram: https://t.me/Crossroads_josh The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Ga., on April 23, 2020. (Tami Chappell/AFP via Getty Images) EXCLUSIVE: Newly Obtained Emails Shed More Light on CDCs False Vaccine Safety Monitoring Statements Newly obtained emails show the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made a false statement on COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring in 2021, months before agency officials gave false statements on the matter to The Epoch Times. The emails also show top officials in the agency discussing performing safety monitoring on a key database for myocarditis, a form of heart inflammation that has been linked to the vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. The CDC promised in 2021 in a set of operating procedures to perform a type of analysis called Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR) on reports of adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccination. The reports are submitted to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), which officials have described as the nations early warning system for post-vaccination adverse events. The CDC also said in an updated set of operating procedures in 2022 that it would perform the analysis. But the CDC has made false statements three times this year on PRRs, initially saying such analysis was outside the agencys purview, then saying the analysis was performed starting in 2021, then saying the analysis did not begin until 2022. The newly obtained emails show that an official falsely said the CDC does not perform PRR analysis to an editor in 2021. John Gregory, a health editor at NewsGuard, wrote to the CDC on Oct. 19, 2021, asking for a comment regarding a claim that the CDCs PRR analysis cannot accurately identify when a vaccine causes adverse events, one of the emails shows. Martha Sharan, a CDC spokeswoman, sent the query to Dr. John Su, who leads the CDCs VAERS team, and Dr. Tom Shimabukuro, who also works on vaccine safety. Their responses were redacted apart from a comment on NewsGuard. Sharan then wrote that shed spoken to Gregory. I spoke to the reporter and explained that CDC does not do PPR analysis. The reporter is not going to pursue this any further! she wrote, adding later that she meant PRR. That contradicts the operating procedures, which state that the CDC will perform Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR) analysis on VAERS reports. We let our published content speak for itself, Gregory told The Epoch Times in an email when notified that the CDC does actually perform PRRs. Nora Burlingame, 3, sits on the lap of her mother, Dina Burlingame, and gets a fist bump from nurse Luann Majeed after receiving her first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination at UW Medical Center-Roosevelt in Seattle, Wash., on June 21, 2022. (David Ryder/Getty Images) Thats a New One to Me In June 2022, the CDC falsely told Childrens Health Defense, a nonprofit, that PRR analysis is outside of th[e] agencys purview. An Associated Press reporter, Angelo Fichera, flagged a Childrens Health Defense article on the statement to the CDC, asking whether the CDC had ever performed the analysis, according to the newly obtained emails. Kristen Nordlund, another CDC spokeswoman, forwarded the query to Sharan. Marthathoughts on this one? she asked. Thats a new one on meproportional reporting ratiosI need to send this one to John, Sharan responded. Sharan later sent a statement about PRRs to The Associated Press and the Washington Examiner. The Associated Press and NewsGuard never published stories on the topic. After The Epoch Times reported on contradictory statements from the CDC, the Examiner published an article about the developments. Fichera, Sharan, and Su did not respond to requests for comment for this article. The emails were obtained by The Epoch Times and an independent researcher through FOIA requests. The CDC claims to be vigilantly and transparently monitoring the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, but when it comes to Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR) analysis, the CDCs broken promises, inconsistent statements, stonewalling, and double standards tell a different story, Mary Holland, president and general counsel of Childrens Health Defense, told The Epoch Times via email. When asked about PRR analysis in connection with COVID vaccinesthrough FOIA, media, and congressional requestsCDC has made conflicting statements, some of them false. When confronted about the statements, the CDC claimed, essentially, that PRR analysis is not worth doing. And for the few months of PRR the CDC now says it has completed, the CDC has failed to make the results public, despite requests from multiple sources. Childrens Health Defense calls on the CDC to do the right thing: do the analysis, and make the results available, she added. Timeline of CDC emails and statements. Some are being reported for the first time in this story, which continues below. I spoke to the reporter and explained that CDC does not do PPR analysis. The reporter is not going to pursue this any further! Martha Sharan to CDC colleagues, Oct. 19, 2021. (source: FOIA response to independent researcher) Correction that should say PRR. Martha Sharan to CDC colleagues, Oct. 19, 2021. (FOIA response to independent researcher) [P]rogram staff within the Immunization and Safety Office inform me that no PRRs were conducted by CDC. Furthermore, data mining is outside of th[e] agencys purview. Roger Andoh, June 16, 2022. (letter to Childrens Health Defense) Thats a new one on me proportional reporting ratios I need to send this one to John. Martha Sharan to CDC colleagues, June 22, 2022 (FOIA response to The Epoch Times) [P]rogram staff within the Immunization and Safety Office inform me that no PRRs were conducted by CDC. Furthermore, data mining is outside of the agencys purview. Bruno Viana to Roger Andoh, June 30, 2022 (FOIA response to The Epoch Times) CDC has been performing PRRs since Feb 2021, and continues to do so to date. Dr. John Su, July 18, 2022 (statement to The Epoch Times) CDC has revisited several FOIA requests and as a result of its review CDC is issuing corrections. In reference to Proportional Reporting Ratios (PRRs) CDC performed PRRs from March 25, 2022 through July 31, 2022. Martha Sharan, Aug. 8, 2022. (statement to The Epoch Times) CDC performed PRR analysis between March 25, 2022, through July 31, 2022. CDC also recently addressed a previous statement made to the Epoch Times to clarify PRR were not run between February 26, 2021, to September 30, 2021. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Sept. 12, 2022 (letter to Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.)) A member of the U.S. military receives the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at Camp Foster in Ginowan, Japan, on April 28, 2021. (Carl Court/Getty Images) Other Emails Several other messages add to the timeline of the CDCs internal and external statements regarding PRR. Two weeks after Andoh falsely told Childrens Health Defense that data mining is outside of the CDCs purview, Bruno Viana, a CDC records employee, sent emails to Andoh about the response. Viana quoted word-for-word portions of the letter that Andoh sent to the group. The context of the emails is unclear. An email to Viana requesting more information returned an away message. The CDC records office declined to comment, saying a new FOIA request would be necessary to obtain the information. Another set of internal emails showed Su and Shimabukuro involved in responding to The Associated Press and the Washington Examiner. With the above background, I might suggest the following response, Su said in one heavily redacted email. Johns edits look fine to me. Thanks, Shimabukuro later wrote. And other emails featured Su and Sharan talking to and about The Epoch Times queries, including a followup query noting that an initial response did not make clear whether the CDC had, in fact, performed PRRs. Su was attributed with the false statement that the CDC had started PRRs in February 2021. One of the missives indicates the statement did come from him. That portion of the email is redacted, but the length of the text aligns with the actual response. Analysis on Myocarditis Clinical trials for the vaccines turned up no evidence of myocarditis, a form of heart inflammation, or a related condition called pericarditis. But real-world evidence of the conditions began emerging in early 2021. After the Department of Defense in the spring of 2021 said it identified myocarditis as a possible side effect of the vaccines, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDCs director, claimed that the CDC saw no signal for myocarditis after looking at its vaccine safety data. After hearing about these reports, we, again, looked back in our vaccine safety data, and we have not seen any reports of those. Those have since been reported to us, and so those investigations are ongoing, she said during a press briefing, adding later, We have not seen a signal, and weve actually looked intentionally for the signal in the over 200 million doses weve given. The CDC has declined to make public the results of that review. Its not clear what systems the CDC reviewed. At the time of the directors press conference, CDC did not have sufficient evidence to conclude there was a safety signal for myocarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Continued surveillance subsequently detected a safety signal, and further assessment verified that signal, Sharan told The Epoch Times in a recent email. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are both built on messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. An exchange just two weeks later included in the newly released emails showed that CDC officials discussed myocarditis monitoring. Shimabukuro wrote on May 13, 2021, to Su and Paige Marquez, another CDC official, with the subject line PRR for myocarditis. That email was entirely redacted. Are you saying Marquez responded. The rest of her email was redacted. Shimabukuros next email was completely redacted, as was an email from Su apart from his signature. No Janssen, Shimabukuro wrote next. Okay, thanks for clarifying! Su wrote. The exchange ended there. Falun Gong practitioners attend a parade in Brooklyn, New York City, on Oct. 2, 2022, to call an end to the Chinese regime's persecution. (Zhang Jingchu/The Epoch Times) Falun Gong Adherents Brave Rain in Brooklyn to Denounce Chinese Communist Partys Abuses NEW YORKHeavy rain and cold winds failed to deter hundreds of Falun Gong practitioners from parading through Chinatown in the Brooklyn borough of New York on Oct. 2 to call for an end to the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) 23-year persecution of the spiritual group. The rain-drenched participants, many of whom wore yellow rain jackets, toted banners and signs urging people to distance themselves from the myriad abuses committed by the communist regime, and to support the more than 400 million individuals who have severed ties with the CCP. The wind and rain, however, were nothing compared to what adherents have experienced in China, according to organizer Yi Rong, a representative of the Falun Dafa Association in New York. In mainland China, theres no way that practitioners can hold a parade [like this], Yi told The Epoch Times. If you do the Falun Gong exercises, you will be arrested and sentenced, and even lose your life. An untold number of Falun Gong adherents have died from torture or forced organ harvesting while detained in prisons, labor camps, detention centers, and brainwashing centers across China under the CCPs campaign to suppress the faith group. Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, includes meditative exercises and a set of moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. It found itself the target of repression by the regime in Beijing after the group surged in popularity, with an estimated 70 million to 100 million people practicing by 1999. The Party deemed such numbers of people following spiritual principles to be a threat to the regimes autocratic control. A Broken Family One parade participant, He Aishan, who recently arrived in the United States from the central Chinese province of Hubei, relayed her own experiences of persecution. It might be very hard for someone from a free society to imagine this: that in China from 1999, a good person who has done nothing wrong and simply believes in Falun Gong and truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance will suffer vicious persecution from the CCP, she told The Epoch Times. He Aishan started practicing Falun Gong while in high school, and found that the practice immediately helped with her studies and health. But after 1999, everything changed. Her mother, also a practitioner, was sent to labor camps twice, and detained and sent to brainwashing facilities multiple times, He said. When He was in college, the university referred her to detention at a labor camp, where she was psychologically tormented through brainwashing. Ahead of a major party meeting in 2012, Hes family was targeted again as authorities stepped up their persecution of Falun Gong, seeking to round up known adherents. She was followed by police and her phone was tapped. The police ransacked Hes home and arrested her mother again. She wasnt at home at the time and avoided that fate. However, when her father returned to find the apartment turned upside down, he collapsed, suffered a stroke, and later died. In my family, we have been left ruined and broken from the CCPs persecution, she said. Understanding the Persecution Passerby Liu Aling was impressed by the Falun Gong practitioners who braved the remnants of Hurricane Ian to participate. Having grown up in mainland China, she said it was difficult for people there to get uncensored information about the spiritual practice hated by the regime. In China, the websites only give you good news. They censor all the bad news, Liu told The Epoch Times. On the internet, television, and print, the only information about Falun Gong is CCP propaganda that vilifies the practice, aiming to stir up mass hatred toward the group. Any information about the persecution is heavily censored on the CCP-controlled internet. So Liu didnt believe what was happening in China. It wasnt until she came to the United States, where she was able to access uncensored news sources and websites, that she slowly came to understand the reality of the persecution of Falun Gong. Its too horrific, Liu said, describing the regimes rights abuses against adherents. Falun Gong practitioners attend a parade in Brooklyn, New York City, on Oct. 2, 2022, to call for an end to the Chinese regimes persecution. (Zhang Jingchu/The Epoch Times) She also quit the Party not long after coming to New York, noting that shelike virtually all other mainland Chinesehad joined the CCPs Young Pioneers while in elementary school. There are now more than 400 million Chinese who have renounced their ties to the CCP or its affiliates. Liu hopes that more Chinese people in the United States can use the countrys freedoms to learn about the situation in China. For those in her home country, she hopes that they can be given more freedoms and the liberty to practice whatever faith they choose. I hope this kind of persecution can come to an end, she said. Linda Lin contributed to this report. A farm tractor fallen in a pond in Ghatampur area of Kanpur, 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Lucknow, the state capital of Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on Oct. 1, 2022. (AP Photo) Farm Vehicle Packed With People Overturns in India; 26 Dead LUCKNOW, IndiaA farm tractor pulling a wagon loaded with people overturned and fell into a pond in northern India, killing 26 people, most of them women and children, officials said Sunday. The wagon was carrying around 40 people returning from a ceremony at a nearby local Hindu temple Saturday night, said police Superintendent Tej Swaroop Singh. He said most of the deaths were due to drowning. At least 10 people were injured in the accident in Kanpur citys Ghatampur area, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of Uttar Pradesh states capital, Lucknow. The injured have been admitted to a hospital. The cause of the accident is under investigation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences via Twitter Saturday: Distressed by the tractor-trolley mishap in Kanpur. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their near and dear ones. Prayers with the injured. It is the second incident in the last three days when a tractor carrying people overturned, killing at least 12 people. Uttar Pradeshs top elected official Yogi Adityanath discouraged the use of farm tractors for passenger transport. A tractor-trolley should be used for agricultural work and to transfer goods, not to ferry people, he said in a statement. India has some of the highest road death rates in the world, with hundreds of thousands of people killed and injured annually. Most crashes are blamed on reckless driving, poorly maintained roads and aging vehicles. FBI Deputy Assistant Director Peter Strzok testifies at the Committee on the Judiciary and Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Joint Hearing on, Oversight of FBI and DOJ Actions Surrounding the 2016 Election" in Washington on July 12, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times) FBI Termination Letter to Top Official Who Denigrated Trump Revealed The FBIs termination letter to the official who led two high-profile investigations has been published, revealing another official made the choice to fire the agent because of repeated, sustained errors of judgement. David Bowdich, the FBIs deputy director, informed Peter Strzok that he was fired in August 2018. A draft of the termination letter was recently made public in a legal case brought by Strzok against his former employer. In the letter, Bowdich said he was having difficulty fathoming Strzoks repeated, sustained errors of judgement while leading the probe into Russia and President Donald Trump, and the investigation into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. While the Department of Justices Office of Inspector General did not find evidence of bias impacting the investigations, your sustained pattern of bad judgement in the use of an FBI device has called into question for many the decisions made during both the Clinton e-mail investigation and the initial states of the Russian Collusion investigation, Bowdich added. In short, your repeated selfishness has called into question the credibility of the entire FBI. Strzok exchanged thousands of text messages with FBI lawyer Lisa Page while the investigations were happening. They both expressed animus against Trump and his supporters. In my 23 years in the FBI, I have not seen a more impactful series of missteps which called into question the entire organization and more thoroughly damaged the reputation of the organization, Bowdich wrote. He said Strzok, as a deputy assistant director, was supposed to be a leader, setting an example for others in the bureau and being beyond reproach. You failed to do so repeatedly and put your own interests about the interests of the organization. Though it pains me to do so, it is for this reason that I am dismissing you from the rolls of the FBI, Bowdich concluded. Strzok did not respond to a request for comment. In his legal complaint, he alleged Bowdichs decision was the result of unrelenting pressure from President Trump and his political allies in Congress and the media and violated his constitutional rights. Trump repeatedly posted missives on social media about Strzok, calling him one of the bad players in the government and asserting he should have been fired a long time ago. Strzok is seeking reinstatement to his position, back pay, and damages. Capitol Hill Appearance A month before Strzok was fired, he appeared before lawmakers on Capitol Hill in Washington, defending his texts. Strzok said the texts have provided ammunition for misguided attacks against the FBI and that not once in my 26 years of defending my nation did my personal opinions impact any official action I took. Strzok also claimed the hearing itself was a victory notch on Putins belt, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Republicans disagreed. Then-Rep Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.), for instance, said that the texts showed Strzok engaged in textbook bias. In an email made public the ongoing legal case, Bowdich said that Strzok held up well during the hearing, but he made some very serious mistakes by opining about a Presidential candidate, or maligning any political candidate. In the FBI we draw a very hard line about any political opinions at the workplacerightly so. In this case it was particularly harmful to our reputation with a segment of the country, he added. Bowdich was responding to a person named Jim, whose last name was redacted. The person told Bowdich that Strzok made the FBI look great, and claimed the Republicans on the panel came across as operating with bias. FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich speaks to reporters in Washington on Jan. 13, 2020. (Andrew Caballero/Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images) Seeing the Damage Bowdich sat for a deposition for the case. A partial transcript was released by the Department of Justice, which is attempting to convince a judge not to grant Strzoks requests to depose Trump and FBI Director Christopher Wray. I had looked at those texts over and over and over again and I was seeing the damage that it was doing to our organization, Bowdich said during the deposition, adding later: I am taking allall the noise, all that stuff, I try to clear that out completely and really focus on, What is the message that we are sending internally across the board? Because this isnt a GS-10 agent, a brand new agent. This is a Deputy Assistant Director with 20 years of experience, extensive experience in counterintelligence, of all things[.] Bowdich, meanwhile, said that he did not recall ever discussing Strzok with Trump and that Wray also never told him about a meeting with Trump in which Trump pressured Wray to fire Strzok. Former Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein was also deposed. He said that he was not involved in the decision to terminate Strzok and does not recall speaking to Wray or Trump about the matter. The depositions bolster the argument that neither Trump nor Wray should be deposed, DOJ lawyers said. Strzok came to the opposite conclusion. In light of former President Trumps repeated statements calling for and then claiming credit for Strzoks firing and his otherwise egregious conduct towards Strzok, Plaintiff should be allowed to depose those with first-hand knowledge of his actions, his lawyers wrote in a filing. Nothing from the Bowdich or Rosenstein depositions supports the governments arguments to the contrary. R | 2h 7min | Drama, Comedy, Adventure | 30 September 2022 (USA) Even before filming began on the final installment of the High School Musical franchise in 2008, Zac Efron began the arduous task of battling typecasting and, for the most part, hes achieved that goal. Wanting to avoid the fate of virtually all other heartthrob/pinup boys who came before him, Efron was determined to be taken as a serious actor. Efron has proven he has what it takes, but for every Me and Orson Welles, Gold, Parkland, or The Disaster Artist, he makes two of Charlie St. Cloud, That Awkward Moment, New Years Eve, or Baywatch. Zac Efron as Chick Donohue (L) hands out some liquid refreshment to MPs in The Greatest Beer Run Ever. (Apple Original Films) Efron Pulls Double Duty For the first time in his career, Efron gets the chance to do comedy and drama in the same film in The Greatest Beer Run Ever (TGBRE), which he pulls off with room to spare. Its the fact-based story of John Chick Donohue (Efron), an Inwood (Long Island), New York native who executed one of most dangerous, ill-advised, yet unselfish and inspirational stunts of all time. Despite serving as a merchant mariner in the Marines during the Vietnam War from 1958 to 1964, Chick was stationed far from the fray in Japan and the Philippines. Upon returning, he moved back home with his parents and siblings, soon becoming a directionless, mostly unemployed heavy drinker. Zac Efron stars as Chick Donohue, who tracks down his hometown brethren to give them some beer in The Greatest Beer Run Ever. (Apple Original Films) Chick often clashes with his sister Christine (Ruby Ashbourne Serkis, daughter of Andy Serkis); shes a vehement antiwar protester who, like many at the time, thought nothing of chastising returning soldiers. As with most Vietnam movies, TGBRE underscores the abhorrent treatment that U.S. citizens levied against the men who fought. The Vietnam War is the only armed conflict in U.S. history where those who served were treated like the enemy by their fellow countrymen. Murray as a Bartender Chick is a regular at Doc Fiddlers, a bar run by The Colonel Lynch (Bill Murray), a slightly cantankerous yet affable man who loves his country and proudly wears his patriotism on his sleeve. In an avuncular manner, The Colonel points out to Chick and his buddies that eight neighborhood boys have already died overseas and maybe they should do something to support four others still in country. Never the shy or retiring type, Chick throws some sundries and a few cases of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer into a duffle bag and heads for the Far East. While working as a laborer on a freighter, Chick asks for a three-day pass to visit his stepbrother stationed in Vietnam. There is no stepbrother, and Chick has no intention of returning three days later. Hes going to track down his hometown brethren and give them some beer. Critics Versus Audiences Known mostly for a string of gross-out comedies from the late 1990s (Dumb and Dumber, Kingpin, Theres Something About Mary) that he co-wrote and co-directed with his brother Bobby, Peter Farrelly defied the odds and enraged the entire left-leaning film critic community by winning the 2018 Best Picture Oscar for Green Book. Russell Crowe as Look photographer Arthur Coates (L) and Zac Efron as Chick Donohoe in a scene from The Greatest Beer Run Ever. (Apple Original Films) It should come as no surprise to anyone that many of these same critics are lambasting TGBRE (currently 39 percent on Rotten Tomatoes), labeling it old-fashioned, flat, corny, and hackneyed. Audiences, on the other hand, give an 85 percent approval rating to the movie on the same site. Is TGBRE a great movie? No, its not. In the pantheon of Vietnam movies (most of which are excellent), it probably wouldnt make my own Top 20, but that doesnt mean its a waste of time. If Farrelly and his two co-writers Brian Currie and Pete Jones had settled on the tone, it would have worked better. And the jarring shift from light comedy to often serious drama at the start of the second act doesnt work as well as it could. At 127 minutes, its easily a half hour too long. TGBRE is based on the book (by Chick and Joanna Molloy) of the same name; the 12-minute 2015 short (also titled TGBRE) features the real Chick and three of his beer recipients. The filmmakers took few artistic liberties; there is, however, no mention of Arthur Coates, a Look photographer played by Russell Crowe, in either the book or the short film. TGBRE is exactly what it intends to be: a feel-good, inspirational, fact-based, and patriotic movie that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face. The film starring Zac Efron may not be perfect, but it shows heartfelt patriotism and deserves a look. (Apple Original Films) The Greatest Beer Run Ever Director: Peter Farrelly Stars: Zac Efron, Russell Crowe, Bill Murray, Ruby Ashbourne Serkis Running Time: 2 hours, 7 minutes MPAA Rating: R Release Date: Sept. 30, 2022 Rating: 3.5 out of 5 People queue to undergo nucleic acid testing for COVID-19 in Lhasa, Tibet on Aug. 9, 2022. (-/CNS/AFP via Getty Images) Five Suicides in Tibet Due to Extreme Hardship in Lockdown: Report The extreme hardships in Tibet, where the Chinese regime has imposed harsh lockdowns, are behind five recent suicides, according to a human rights advocacy group. The lockdown in the west border regionwhich has dragged on for over 50 dayscaused a spate of suicides in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, according to the Washington-based International Campaign for Tibet (ICT). From Sept. 23 to 24, at least five people took their own lives by jumping to their deaths in Lhasa, the group said in a Sept. 29 statement, citing unnamed sources in the city. ICT said that the suicides took place in centralized quarantine sites or residential buildings under lockdown. Lockdowns, sometimes on a citywide scale, have become frequent in recent months as the authorities across the country are on high alert to avoid outbreaks in the run up to the 20th Chinese Communist Party (CCP) congress later this month. During the twice-a-decade party conclave, Chinese leader Xi Jinping is seeking an unprecedented (since Mao Zedong) third five-year term in office. Tibet is experiencing the longest lockdown since Shanghai emerged from a two-month closure. Residents in certain towns across the vast Tibet region began receiving stay-at-home orders in early August, while the authorities conducted mass testing for COVID-19. The Covid outbreak in Tibet has resulted in the expansion of already invasive and suffocating living conditions in Tibet, ICT said. One person who killed himself was a man who jumped from a mass quarantine site, according to ICT. The group also shared several video clips obtained from its sources in the statement, but all footage has been removed by YouTube over violation of the platforms terms of service. The COVID suicides in Tibet are a manifestation of the CCPs zero-COVID policy failure and the authorities rejection of Tibetan grievances and pleas to end the extreme response, ICT said. No Food Posts describing how desperate conditions are under the strict lockdownfrom food shortages, a lack of medical care, to chaotic scenes in quarantine siteshave appeared on Chinas social media since September. To save food, we could only sleep during the daytime, a tour guide living in Lhasa who gave his surname as Zhao told The Epoch Times on Sept.16. For over a month, I only eat once every day. Zhao, who had been confined in a rental apartment for more than 30 days, said the authorities are censoring peoples voices, after their plight drew some attention on social media. People getting swabbed for nucleic acid testing for the COVID-19 coronavirus in Lhasa, Tibet on Aug. 9, 2022. (-/CNS/AFP via Getty Images) Such complaints prompted the citys authorities to apologize publicly. Dradul, a deputy mayor of Lhasa, acknowledged that their mishandling of the outbreak has had a great impact on the productivity and life of some of the people during a press conference on Sept. 18. The ICT called it a tactical apology. The group stated that no meaningful remedial measures have been implemented to ameliorate the harsh lockdown and quarantine conditions imposed by the official zero-COVID policy. Chinas mismanagement of Covid in Tibet reveals the extreme human costs when authoritarian police states prioritize censorship and social control over the wellbeing of the people, ICT said. No Income A small business owner said his friends relative committed suicide in a centralized quarantine center in Lhasa. While he didnt know the details, he suggested that the economic pressures may have contributed. How many people could stay calm after being deprived of income for 50 days? a man, who gave his surname as Li, asked The Epoch Times on Sept. 27. Li said he had to pay off loans for his car and home and pay his staff, even though he was confined to his home, Tashi, a Lhasa resident who has been sealed in his home for over 45 days, said he lost his job and faced difficulties paying a car loan. He said he knows people who are unable to pay their rent. Tashi believes the authorities are using COVID-19 curbs to increase control over the far-western region. Related Coverage Chinese Regime Calls for Tibet to Accept Communist Rule 70 Years After CCP Takeover Such restrictions are not for preventing the pandemic, Tashi told The Epoch Times on Sept. 27. They purposely force people to stay at home with the goal of cutting their income. In the end, people would do whatever the government asked, because they want to survive. The ICT urged the Chinese authorities to refrain from repressive measures. Tibetans living under Chinese rule have already suffered for decades as second-class citizens due to Beijings hardline policies targeting Tibetan identity, culture, language, and religion. ICT said. Beijing must recognize that the combination of decades-long repression and the rollout of new, extreme and inhumanely enforced COVID restrictions are causing Tibetan suffering and suicides. Gu Xiaohua and Hong Ning contributed to the report. Artsakh Republic President Arayik Harutyunyan, meeting the proposal of the National Assemblys political forces convened an extended sitting of the Security Council with the participation of a number of high-ranking officials, representatives of all the parliamentary forces and Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church. October 3, 2022, 20:00 The President of the Artsakh Republic convened an extended sitting of the Security Council STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: Recent military-political developments around the Artsakh Republic were on the discussion agenda. Following the thorough discussions, the Security Council of the Artsakh Republic adopted a statement. The statement reads: Concerned by the serious challenges caused by current developments in the world and in our region, Reaffirming the positions of the Artsakh Republic executive and legislative power branches regarding the future of Artsakh, Referring to the September 19 address of the Artsakh Republic President, Considering the new developments following it, in particular, concerns of our public regarding some of the thoughts and views expressed in the interview of the Premier of the Republic of Armenia given to the Armenian Public Television on September 30, We, all the participants of the extended sitting of the Security Council of the Artsakh Republic, declare: We record that as a result of the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggression of 2020 and the subsequent two-year military-political developments, we actually have a situation where Azerbaijan, with Turkey's unconditional support, has gained influential leverage and is aggressively using them to realize its most ambitious aspirations. Azerbaijan's actions are accompanied by consistent use of force and threat of force, aggravating manifestations of the Armenophobe state policy, and other gross violations of the fundamental norms of international law. Using all the levers, Azerbaijan strives to ensure its oppressive and dictating position not only in relations with the Republic of Armenia, but also to abort any format and efforts for the settlement of the Karabakh conflict, declaring that it has solved the problem by war. Contrary to that, the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries and other international actors have reaffirmed by different formulations the existence of the conflict and the need for its comprehensive settlement. The position of the Artsakh Republic has always been clear: the Karabakh conflict should be settled on the basis of the full and non-negotiable recognition of the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination and the results of its realization. It is undeniable that in 1991 the people of Artsakh declared independence in conformity with the norms of international law and USSR legislation, and Artsakh has never been part of independent Azerbaijan. Moreover, the fact that the Artsakh Republic is not recognized internationally does not mean that the people of Artsakh have no natural rights and the Artsakh Republic does not exist. Despite all the difficulties and challenges, from now on we will continue our chosen path towards determining and managing our own destiny in our own homeland. The long-term and stable security of Artsakh should be ensured through our own defense capacities, the termless mission of Russian peacekeepers, and all possible tools of the Republic of Armenia. Improving our own defense capacities is an ongoing effort and is in the spotlight of our attention. The Russian peacekeeping mission, despite the additional challenges of recent months, continues to be the main international guarantee of the security of the people of Artsakh. Within this context, we consider the attempts to worsen traditional relations with natural allies as extremely dangerous. The Artsakh Republic and the Artsakh Armenians stand by the statehood and people of Mother Armenia in overcoming all vital challenges, because it has been stipulated by our national values and interests. We perceive that the possible signing of an interstate agreement regulating the Armenia-Azerbaijan relations can become an important basis for guaranteeing the sovereign and safe future of the Republic of Armenia, regional stability and peace. However, taking into account the importance of the interests of the Artsakh Armenians, as an inseparable part of the Armenian people, in these relations, we emphasize that any document that may ignore the existence of the Karabakh conflict, undermine the prospect of its fair settlement, and limit the possibilities of international recognition of the right of the Artsakh people to self-determination and the results of its implementation is unacceptable for us, including the false agenda of its subordination to the principle of territorial integrity. Within this context, we highlight the periodic consultations between the authorities of the Artsakh Republic and the Republic of Armenia on the topic, within the framework of which the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia presents details of international negotiations to the Artsakh Republic President, and the President, in his turn, presents the positions of the Artsakh Republic authorities, including their disagreements. During the past three decades, both the logic and the practical steps of the Armenian people's national-liberation struggle and state-building process were based on consolidating the pan-Armenian potential and directing the political support of our friends and allies in the right direction. Taking into account the positive experience of the past, the best guarantee for overcoming these difficult challenges faced by the Armenian people is the manifestation of national unity. We have always appreciated the consistent support of the entire Armenian people and the Republic of Armenia to the Artsakh Republic, without which we could not have recorded numerous important successes in our struggle. In that sense, there is simply no alternative to maintaining and cementing the Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora trinity. Our national values and interests imply that regardless of anything, Mother Armenia should always be next to Artsakh in all spheres, especially in terms of guaranteeing the security of the people of Artsakh and international recognition of the right to self-determination. It is undeniable that the beneficiary of the future of Artsakh is the entire Armenian people, and the interests of Armenia and Artsakh should be seen as a single whole. Considering especially the post-war context and challenges, we highlight that as long as the Artsakh Republic is not included in the conflict resolution process as a full-fledged member and within the framework of a high international format, the Republic of Armenia is obliged and authorized to represent and protect the rights and interests of the people of Artsakh on international platforms. Those obligations and powers are fixed by a number of internal and international documents, including the OSCE documents and the tripartite declaration of November 9, 2020. Hence, we are ready to conduct negotiations with Azerbaijan on the settlement of the conflict, in case of restoration of the full-fledged format of negotiations, where the Artsakh Republic is recognized as a full party. The authorities of the Artsakh Republic will continue to follow the geopolitical and regional developments, taking appropriate steps to manage the risks arising from the situation. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) speaks during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies hearing on Capitol Hill on May 17, 2022. (Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images) Florida Sen. Marco Rubio Vows to Reject Hurricane Ian Relief Bill If Legislation Is Filled With Pork Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) on Sunday vowed not to support a federal relief bill aimed at aiding his state in its recovery from Hurricane Ian if it goes beyond providing disaster funding to include unrelated spending. Rubio made the comments in an interview for CNNs State of the Union program several days after the powerful storm made landfall. The Category 4 storm with winds of 150 mph (240 kph) has claimed the lives of more than 80 people in Florida and the Carolinas, Reuters reported, although the death toll is expected to keep rising. Meanwhile, 613,386 electric customers in Florida were without power as of Monday, according to PowerOutage.us. Rubio on Sunday noted that he has always supported disaster relief funding packages that are clean but that he would not vote for any bill that is loaded up with stuff thats unrelated to the storm and smells like pork. Pork is a commonly used term to describe spending for other unrelated projects thats placed into congressional spending legislation. I will fight against it having pork in it. Thats the key, the senator said, adding that he feared that voting for such a package would deter other lawmakers from voting for disaster relief in the future. We shouldnt have that in there because it undermines the ability to come back and do this in the future, he said. I think disaster relief is something we shouldnt play with. We are capable in this country, in the Congress, of voting for disaster relief for key, after key events like this, without using it as a vehicle or a mechanism for people to load it up with stuff thats unrelated to the storm. Its Not About Politics You will have people in the Senate, in the House that are going to vote against disaster relief because they view these disaster relief bills as ways for other people to get their pork and their pet projects done, the Republican lawmaker added. CNN host Dana Bash pointed out that Rubio had also voted against a similar federal relief bill following Hurricane Sandy, which struck the United States in 2012. Rubio didnt dispute this fact, stating that he did so because, again, some of the funding in the bill was unrelated to the disaster. But he noted that he ultimately supported a smaller version of the $50 billion package. It had been loaded up with a bunch of things that had nothing to do with disaster relief. I would never put out there that we should go use a disaster relief package for Florida as a way to pay for all kinds of other things people want around the country, Rubio said. Rubio praised the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for its response to the disaster but noted that more help will be needed to aid in Floridas recovery, noting that some communities have been completely wiped out by the hurricane. FEMA has been a great partner, the Biden administration has responded as theyve said, and so there are no complaints there, Rubio said. These are professionals. I think in times like this, people realize that its not about politics. It shouldnt be. The Biden administration has approved a major disaster declaration for Florida, allowing the U.S. government to utilize federal funding for aid in 13 counties in the state. As of yet, the exact financial cost of the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian is unclear, although research company CoreLogic estimates it could be anywhere between $28 billion and $47 billion. Former NSA Staffer Charged With Espionage After Trying to Sell Information to Undercover FBI Agent A former employee of the National Security Agency (NSA) has been charged with espionage for allegedly trying to sell classified national defense information to an undercover agent he believed to be working for a foreign government, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said. Jareh Sebastian Dalke, a 30-year-old Army veteran of Colorado Springs, Colorado, worked at the NSA as an information systems security designer from June 6 to July 1, 2022. According to the DOJ, Dalke used an encrypted email account to transmit excerpts of three classified documents he had obtained during his employment to an undercover FBI agent disguised as a representative of a foreign government. Dalke was arrested on Sept. 28, after he arrived at a public location in Denver, expecting to meet the undercover agent and transfer one additional classified document. He allegedly told the agent that he had a debt of $237,000, and asked for a specific type of cryptocurrency in exchange for the highly sensitive information he possessed. The FBI ended up sending him about $4,600 worth of cryptocurrency as a good faith payment to help with his financial problems. The information, according to an affidavit (pdf) supporting the criminal complaint, involves topics such as the threat assessment of the foreign countrys military offensive capabilities, a cryptographic program used by the U.S. government, and the threat assessment of U.S. defense capabilities, a portion of which relates to that foreign country. While the foreign government isnt identified, the affidavit states that Dalke claimed to have reached out to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, or SVR, to ensure that he was actually communicating with a foreign government entity rather than Americans trying to stifle a patriot. According to the affidavit, Dalke had expressed dissatisfaction with what the United States had become. This country is not as great as it thinks it once was, he allegedly said. It is all about the businesses and their money, not anything about the people or those that serve it to include the military. Dalke is charged with three violations of the Espionage Act, which makes it a crime to transmit or attempt to transmit national defense information to a foreign nation knowing the information could be used against the United States or to the advantage of a foreign nation. If convicted, he could face the death penalty or any number of years up to life in prison. The announcement comes as Edward Snowden, a former U.S. intelligence contractor who famously exposed the NSAs massive domestic surveillance program in 2013 and has remained in exile in Russia ever since, was granted Russian citizenship. After years of separation from our parents, my wife and I have no desire to be separated from our son. Thats why, in this era of pandemics and closed borders, were applying for dual USRussian citizenship, Snowden wrote on Twitter in November. On Sept. 26, he wrote: After two years of waiting and nearly ten years of exile, a little stability will make a difference for my family. I pray for privacy for themand for us all. Snowden fled to Russia after the Justice Department charged him with violating the Espionage Act. He initially lived there under political asylum and was granted permanent residency in 2020. Leader of GERB party Boyko Borissov speaks at an election rally, ahead of Oct. 2 snap elections, in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, on Sept. 30, 2022. (Stoyan Nenov/Reuters) GERB Party Leads in Bulgaria Election: Partial Results SOFIABulgarias GERB party of former long-serving Prime Minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sundays election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear. With 99 percent of the ballots counted, partial official results showed GERB winning with 25.4 percent. Its main rival, the reformist We Continue the Change of Kiril Petkov, whose coalition cabinet collapsed in June, came second with 20.2 percent. The results point to difficult coalition talks in a fractured parliament or even another snap election in the European Union member state. Either would prolong political instability amid steep surging energy and consumer prices and war in Ukraine and raise the prospect of Bulgaria missing its 2024 target date for entry into the single currency euro zone. Five political parties are seen entering the next parliament, the partial results showed. Final official results are expected on Thursday. Efforts to put together a functioning coalition are complicated by the fact that many of Borissovs political adversaries accuse him of allowing widespread corruption to fester during his decade-long rule that ended last year. Borissov denies the allegations. Some voters in the European Unions poorest member state say Borissov offers stability and has diplomatic experience required to navigate Bulgarias complex relationship with Russia. Borissov is yet to comment on the election results. Prior to the vote he indicated he would be open to talks with to all political parties and appealed to his rivals to show reason ahead of difficult winter. We Continue the Change party has conceded defeat and said it would stay in opposition. We have pledged that we would not go into coalition with GERB and we will stay true to our promise, Petkov said on Monday, adding that his party remained adamant about fighting endemic corruption. Germans Panic-Buy Electric Heaters as Authorities Warn of Winter Gas Shortage German authorities have issued another dire warning about a possible shortage of natural gas over the winter, driving sales of electric heaters to soar in a spree of panic shopping because of concern that German households might be left in the cold. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck told Deutschlandfunk radio on Sept. 30 that the country is in an extremely tense situation when it comes to energy supply. If we dont save, if households dont reduce consumption, we still risk not having enough gas in the winter, he said. Europes biggest economy is struggling to cope with surging gas and electricity costs caused mostly by a collapse in Russian gas supplies to Europe, which Moscow has blamed on Western sanctions. German Economy and Climate Action Minister Robert Habeck speaks during a news conference on the future use of liquefied natural gas, in Berlin, on Aug. 16, 2022. (Lisi Niesner/File Photo/Reuters) Germanys network regulator Bundesnetzagentur, which would be responsible for gas rationing in case of a supply emergency, said in a statement on Sept. 29 that household consumption is too high to be sustainable. Bundesnetzagentur chief Klaus Mueller called for sustained austerity efforts, saying that gas consumption by households and businesses in the prior week was well above consumption levels in prior years, calling the figures sobering. Without significant cutbacks in the private sector, too, it will be difficult to avoid a gas shortage in winter, he said in a statement, adding that cutbacks are needed even if temperatures dont continue to fall and even then, theres no guarantee of a sure-fire success. Mueller said Germany will be able to get through the winter under three conditions: the country has to import more gas; the gas supplies of neighboring countries must remain stable; and each individual must cut back on gas consumption, even if it gets even colder toward winter. Pipes at the landfall facilities of the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline in Lubmin, Germany, on July 21, 2022. (Annegret Hilse/Reuters) Electric Heater Sales Soar Meanwhile, sales of electric heaters in Germany have soared amid gas-shortage fears as winter looms. Sales of electric heaters in Germany, between January and August, have jumped 76 percent compared to the year-earlier period, according to market research company Growth from Knowledge (GfK) data provided to German news outlet Deutsche Welle. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has set out a $194 billion defensive shield that includes a gas price brake and a cut in sales tax for the fuel in a bid to protect businesses and households from the pain of soaring energy costs. Under the plans, which are expected to run until spring 2024, the government will introduce an emergency price brake on gas, the details of which will be announced next month. The government also is scrapping a planned gas levy meant to help firms struggling with high spot market prices. A temporary electricity price brake will subsidize basic consumption for consumers and small and medium-sized companies. Sales tax on gas will fall to 7 percent from 19 percent. In his remarks to Deutschlandfunk radio on Sept. 30, Habeck said Germanys gas price brake will be limited to covering 80 percent of normal household usage in an effort to encourage consumers to save energy and avoid a shortage. In a bid to help Germany make it through the winter, the European Commission on Sept. 30 approved a measure to compensate operators of five lignite-fired power plants to be on standby and ready to be activated in case of natural gas shortages. Reuters contributed to this report. A woman and her child play on a Google sign in Shanghai on Sept. 26, 2018. (Johannes Eisele/AFP via Getty Images) Google Discontinues Google Translate in Mainland China Google has discontinued its Google Translate services in mainland China, removing one of the companys few remaining services that it had provided in a country where most Western social media platforms are blocked. The Google Translate app and website now display a generic search bar and a link redirecting Chinese users to its page in Hong Kong, which is blocked on the mainland. Users reported not being able to access the service since Saturday, according to Chinese social media posts. The translation feature built into the Google Chrome browser also no longer functions for users in China. The Google Translate service was discontinued in China due to low usage, Google said in a statement. It is not clear how many users were using Google Translate in China. Googles web address displayed on a screen in Philadelphia on April 26, 2017. (Matt Rourke/AP Photo) The U.S. technology firms has a fraught relationship with China. In 2010, Google pulled its search engine from the Chinese market after it became unwilling to abide by the countrys censorship rules. China later moved to block other Google services such as its email service Gmail and Google Maps. Chinese authorities typically block most Western social media platforms and services, including those of Google, Facebook, and Twitter as the Chinese regime seek to maintain strict censorship rules. Chinese platforms must abide strictly by those rules and censor keywords and topics the authorities deem politically sensitive. In 2017, Google made its translation service available on the mainland via a Chinese domain as it explored ways to offer services in the Chinese market. Its Google Translate service competed with other popular, homegrown translation alternatives provided by Chinese technology firms including Baidu and Sogou. Google had explored launching a separate, censored search engine for China, but terminated the project in 2019 amid a global backlash. Hundreds of Cars Pack Nevada Streets for Illegal Stunts RENO, Nev.Thousands of people in hundreds of cars took over northern Nevada parking lots and intersections Friday night and into Saturday, performing stunts in souped-up vehicles and leading to crashes and arrests, police said. Police beefed up nighttime staffing after social media posts urged people from San Francisco and Portland, Oregon, to come to the sideshow in Reno, Police Lt. Michael Browett said. The disturbances started late Friday as several hundred cars and their occupants met in the parking lot of a still-open Walmart store. Police tried to break up the crowds and drivers sped off, meeting up again at several intersections and industrial parks into Saturday morning. A dozen people were arrested, 14 cars impounded and 33 people were issued citations. Browett said Reno is just the latest city to see late-night takeovers by auto enthusiasts who ignore law enforcement efforts to stop the illegal and dangerous activity. I dont know what the underlying movement is with this group, but it goes a little beyond cars, Browett said. Theyre very anti-authoritarian, and they basically just show up and do whatever they want. Cities across the country have been dealing with similar issues in recent years, including Phoenix, San Francisco, and Chicago. Last weekend, three people were killed and several others badly hurt in crashes related to a pop-up sideshow in Wildwood, New Jersey. In Reno, no one was seriously injured. But Browett said those arrested faces charges including reckless driving, hit and run causing injury and weapons possession. Holsteins lumber by a battered barn Oct. 2 at Dakin Dairy, where 250 cows have died since Hurricane Ian hammered the 1,200-acre farm in Myakka City, Fla., less than 50 miles south of Tampa, on Sept. 28.(John Haughey/The Epoch Times) Hundreds of Florida Dairy Cows Perish in Ians Savage Wake MYAKKA CITY, Fla.They hustled the herd from their stalls and into the open fields, where the cows would be safer from the storm, a practice honed during a half-century of dairy farming in Florida and Maine for a century before. The massive steel-frame, metal-roof barns that housed Dakin Dairy Farmss nearly 5,000 Holsteins could withstand winds of up to 70 miles per hour, Jerry Dakin said, but at 80 to 100, things start to come apart. When Hurricane Ian made landfall on Sept. 28 as a Category 4 storm with 155 mile-per-hour winds, first over barrier islands near Fort Myers and then at 4:35 p.m. in Punta Gorda, just 30 miles south of the dairy, Dakin said, At some point, you put your trust in God. The cows and their spring-born calves would stand against Hurricane Ian, he said, within 250 acres of oak-ringed, bermed pasture carved into the sawgrass savannah. We put them outside, said Dakin, the Florida Farm Bureaus 2022 Florida Farmer of the Year. We always put them outside. A sentinel bull warily watches as cows shelter near a tattered shade stand on Dakin Dairy in Myakka City, Fla., on Oct. 2, four days after Hurricane Ian blasted through the area, leaving at least 250 of the dairys cows dead in its wake. (John Haughey/The Epoch Times) Ian thrashed the 1,200-acre dairy on its march northeast. At roughly 7:30 p.m., while assessing the wreckage in its wakeall six barns stripped of roofs, all silos toppled, machinery floodedDakin saw that the cows were standing against it, standing along the fence-line and appeared to have survived with few casualties. Never lost more than eight cows in a storm, he said. Six hours later, early on Sept. 29, a neighbor called and said there were 30 dead [cows] along a fence-line, Dakin said. Before arriving at the scene, more dead cows littered his way. I saw 30 more dead along another fence line. I have never seen that. They werent piled up, just laying all along the fence, he said. Ive never seen anything this bad. I had to drive away from it. Three days later, on a bright, blue-sky Oct. 2, Dakin Dairyone of only 52 remaining dairy farms in Floridawas abuzz with the labor of volunteers pulling shredded metal from inside the battered barns. But amid the din of beginning again, the cows keep dying. Courtney Dakin, who directs the dairys tour program, a popular Manatee County attraction for decades, said on Oct. 2, Weve lost 250 and still rising. Ive never seen anything so catastrophic. Courtney Dakin, whos Jerrys cousin, said one of the other nearby Dakin dairies had lost 300 cows. Bill Flach, right, and another volunteer pull metal roofing away from a collapsed silo outside a crushed stall barn on Oct. 2 at Dakin Dairy in Myakka, Fla., where Hurricane Ian, a lack of water, and exposure have killed more than 250 cows. (John Haughey/The Epoch Times) Most are dying from pneumonia, she said, describing milking cows as easily stressed animals. Several were electrocuted, farmhands reported, but none drowned. Those that perished during or immediately after the storm died, essentially, of fright. Now, theyre enduring stress from that storm and challenging circumstances. Generators couldnt keep pace in providing water to milking cows until power was restored to the area on Oct. 1, forcing the dairy to throw milk away. The upheaval will take a toll on the cows for four of five more days, Jerry Dakin said. They were so worn out. They are not as full as they need to be. Were pumping feed into them. The dairys 35 employees are all are safe, but some have lost everything, according to Courtney Dakin. One lost three vehicles, several lost their homes, she said. Many are subsisting in flooded, compromised homes, Jerry Dakin said, noting that people couldnt get out of their own houses for days because of flooded roads, including Interstate 75. Many of the dairys workers couldnt get to the farm, some still cant, he said. Courtney Dakin put out a call on Dakin Dairys Facebook page for volunteers to help clear the barns and pastures of debris. More than 100 people showed up on Oct. 1 from as far away as Plant City and Lake Wales, she said. On Oct. 2, about the same number were expected, including a busload of 30 from Ocala. My mind is blown away, she said. These people are showing up on our doorstep to help us when we really need it. Neighbor Bill Flach was pulling roof metal from under a collapsed silo that the storm cured of corrosion and said it was a terrible thing to see a cow lay down and just die. He wasnt surprised at the volunteer turnout. Jerry has helped so many. Its his turn. Now he needs help. Thats why these people are herea good neighbor needs help. Were here, Flach said. This guy is not going to let this stop him, not a storm anyway, not Jerry. Courtney Dakin said the dairy is also collecting donations, anything and everything from bedding to food, at its cafe and shop. Details are available on the Dakin Dairy Facebook page. The dairys food trucks have been delivering the donations to sites in Arcadia and North Port, who are far worse off than us, she said. Lucia Granton, of Palmer Ranch, said she had gathered water and food to donate to some group helping hurricane victims. My heart goes out, Granton said. There are so many people who need help. When she heard that Dakin Dairy needed donations and volunteers, there was no question in my mindthis is what I had to do today. Jerry Dakin estimated that the average worth of each lost cow is about $1,800 each, meaning just in livestock, the Dakin dairies could be looking at more than $1 million in losses. Its another blow to an increasingly difficult business, he said. In 2015, there were 130 dairies across the state where 123,000 cows produced approximately 277 million gallons of milk and generated $1.16 billion in revenues, supporting 6,288 jobs, according to the University of Floridas Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences. As of Oct. 2, there are only 52 dairies left, down from 350 at the turn of the century, according to Jerry Dakin. America has got to wake up. The day we cant feed ourselves is the day we will be in trouble, he said. We need common sense federal regulation by people who actually understand the industry. We need help to do more to keep agriculture in the state of Florida. The same issues that have hamstrung the states dairy industryrising land values, high equipment costs, financing issues, labor shortages, and a federal regulation that makes Florida milk among the nations most expensivewill continue to be challenges in the coming years. As will hurricanes. As he surveyed the barns, their roofs and walls bent and twisted and scattered about, Jerry Dakin said it will be a while before things are back to normal, so the dairy is going to work on the basics in resettling the cows and getting the dairys products onto grocery shelves. Can we even get materials? Jerry Dakin asked. Courtney Dakin said: Well rebound. Well be back. But right now, the priority is to take care of the girls. NEW YORKThe finals of New Tang Dynasty (NTD) Televisions 8th International Chinese Vocal Competition were held on Oct. 2 at the Merkin Hall of the Kaufman Music Center in New York. Eleven contestants were awarded silver, bronze, and honorable mention awards. There was no gold award winner. The International Chinese Vocal Competition promotes traditional bel canto vocal arts, through which to express pure authenticity, pure goodness, and pure beauty. The competition also aims to provide a global arena for all Chinese vocalists to showcase their talents. Contestants were required to sing two songs with at least one song in Chinese. Strong Energy Connecting With Audience From Chinese Lyrics The male division silver award went to tenor The Tung Lam from Vietnam. His repertoire included The Cold Little Hand from Puccinis opera La Boheme and The Song in My Heart in Chinese. Male division silver award winner tenor The Tung Lam from Vietnam. (Zhenli Lian/Epoch Times) Lam said that he had to overcome quite a lot of obstacles to travel to New York and participate in the competition. He was very grateful to get to know many fellow artists and to improve his singing. He enjoyed singing the Chinese song and was moved by the lyrics, from which he could feel a very strong energy and with which he was able to connect to the audience. I felt the energy connecting to the audience. I felt no pressure, but a wonderful connection with the audience. Lam said. Female division silver award winner mezzo-soprano Jingjing Xu from Canada and pianist Chris Knopp. (Zhenli Lian/Epoch Times) Classical Music Connects Us All The female division silver award went to mezzo-soprano Jingjing Xu from Canada. She sang No More Sitting Alone by the Fireside and Grieving in Cinderella and an ancient Chinese poetry song You Lan Cao. Xu said that this competition is an important milestone in her career. Its an acknowledgment of all my hard work over the years. I am happy, she said. Chris Knopp was Xus piano accompanist. He also enjoyed the competition and enjoyed the Chinese songs. Its two art forms at once, music and poetry. I learned a lot about music in general, also improved my own piano playing, Knopp said. Through playing classical music, whether its composed by a German, an Italian, or a Chinese, I could feel the human connection. That is the same, especially across time periods. There is something that connects us all, its beautiful. Female division bronze award winner Rachael Bastick from New York. (Zhenli Lian/Epoch Times) The male division bronze award went to Wade Park from New York. The female division bronze awards went to Rachael Bastick from New York and Hsinju Lo from Taiwan. Female division bronze award winner Hsinju Lo from Taiwan. (Zhenli Lian/Epoch Times) Judge: Contestants Singing With Their Hearts Vocalists from the world-renowned Shen Yun Performing Arts served on the panel of judges. Soprano Min Jiang was the head judge, along with sopranos Haolan Geng and Tian Li, and tenors Gu Yun and Gao Liang. Tenor Gu Yun said: The overall level of the contestants is very high, not only in terms of singing techniques, but also their interpretation of the songs. They sing with their hearts, letting you feel their emotions. Gu Yun also liked the format of singing bel canto style in Chinese. To sing in our own language about our own culture is the way to revive the culture. Soprano Tian Li praised the contestants for having superb control of their repertoire, and the very fitting interpretation of the deeper meaning of the Chinese songs. I am very glad that NTD provides a platform for Chinese vocalists to shine on a world stage. Many audience members praised the high-caliber performances and the soothing music. Violinist Kornela Rad said that she has benefited from listening to the artists. For me, sitting in the audience, I can see what I can do better as a musician by observing other people. Its very educational for me as well. Patients may no longer need to endure invasive procedures to investigate mild heart attacks, according to a new study from Flinders University in South Australia. If a randomised control trial (RCT) is successful, the CT scan could become a preferred tool for doctors which could also reduce the risk of complications. The current preferred procedure is a coronary angiography, which involves threading a slender catheter through the bodys largest artery (aorta) via an artery in the wrist or groin. When it reaches the coronary arteries of the heart, an X-ray sensitive dye is injected through the catheter and then X-ray images are taken to see if any arteries are narrowed or blocked. Although the procedure only takes around 40 minutes, medical staff must monitor things like blood pressure, the pulse, breathing, and wound site regularly afterwards, with the patient needing up to six hours before being discharged. There are also a bevy of potential complications from the procedure including bleeding from the wound, allergic reaction to the contrast dye, heart arrythmia, heart attack, and stroke. Troponin is a protein that appears in the blood when heart muscles become damaged. (jarun011/Adobe Stock) Chief Investigator Associate Professor Sam Lehman, a practising cardiologist and academic with Flinders Universitys College of Medicine and Public Health, said in a release on Oct. 3 that due to the increase in high-sensitivity troponin tests, which can identify damage to the heart muscle, more patients are being found to have heart damage and sent for coronary angiographies. This is despite the fact that most patients with lower levels of troponin are not found to need surgery to reduce or remove a blockage, he said. Our current standard of care is based on evidence that was established in an earlier era, when our tests were less sensitive. The benefit of the current standard has not been established with the more modern troponin tests and has significant implications for rural and regional areas, where patients are often transferred to metropolitan centres, potentially unnecessarily. The Trial and Expected Benefits The RCT will involve 3,000 patients and evaluate the safety of first-line investigations carried out by a non-invasive CT coronary angiography (CTCA) compared to an invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Over the 12-month period, patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome and low-level troponin elevation will be monitored for potential cardiovascular death, and new or recurrent damage to the heart. In addition, the trial will assess whether a CT angiography is a more suitable method with regards to bleeding, the potential for heart muscle injury and patient satisfaction. Through the trial, a machine learning algorithm will also be created to assist clinicians in deciding which diagnostic technique is most appropriate for each patient. Employing cardiac CT scans to investigate mild heart attacks could lower the risk of complications and minimise the need for patients to travel to metropolitan health facilitiies. (Tawesit/Adobe Stock) Lehman said the overall aim of the trial is to advance the evidence base for these procedures, as well as facilitate their translation into practice and policy. Alongside a reduction in health care costs, there is potential for early CT coronary angiography to be a non-invasive alternative to ICA, leading to a reduction in ad hoc revascularisations (surgery to unblock the heart), reducing the potential for patient harm and providing for more accessible treatment throughout Australia, he said. Rural and remote areas often have less access to cardiac expertise that can inform care, with only 11.5 percent of cardiologists located in these geographic regions, despite 28 percent of Australias population living in these areas, potentially driving inappropriate treatment. Changing the standard of care could drive more appropriate access to acute cardiac investigations and equitable health outcomes in regional and remote areas. The trialImpact of non-invasive coronary angiography on suspected acute coronary syndromes with low concentration troponin elevationhas been granted almost $1 million by the Medical Research Future Fund 2021 Cardiovascular Health Grant Opportunity, a government fund set up to support research into improved cardiovascular health for Australians. A single rider waits on a train platform at the Archives station as weekday rail ridership across the Metro system is down nearly 90-percent due to the coronavirus pandemic in Washington on March 25, 2020. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Keep Gun Ban on DC Metro, Biden Administration Urges Court The Biden administration is urging a federal judge to uphold Washingtons ban on individuals carrying firearms on the citys crime-ridden local public transit system popularly known as the DC Metro. The lawsuit is one of many filed nationwide challenging gun laws after the Supreme Courts landmark 63 ruling on June 23 recognizing a constitutional right to carry firearms in public for self-defense. The opinion states that to ban concealed weapons in a specific place, the government must demonstrate that the regulation is consistent with this Nations tradition of firearm regulation. The plaintiffscity residents Gregory T. Angelo, Tyler Yzaguirre, and Cameron M. Erickson, along with Fairfax, Virginia, resident Robert M. Millerfiled suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on June 30. Judge Randolph D. Moss, an Obama appointee, is presiding over the case. The plaintiffs are suing the District of Columbia and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert J. Contee III. Yzaguirre is president of the nonprofit Second Amendment Institute. The four men, all holders of concealed pistol carry licenses issued by Contees office, are regular riders of the Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority, which runs bus and subway lines in the greater Washington area, including in northern Virginia and Montgomery and Prince Georges counties in Maryland. Michael Drezner, a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, filed a statement of interest with the federal court on Sept. 30 on behalf of the U.S. government, arguing that the local ban is consistent with the Supreme Court decision. He wrote that the court should dismiss the lawsuit that the four local residents filed in hopes of ending Washingtons regulation forbidding guns on the public transit system. The United States supports preserving the flexibility of local governments and public transit authorities to take reasonable means to enhance the security of public transit based on local conditions, including by restricting firearms in sensitive places such as public transit systems, Drezner wrote. Because the federal workforce is heavily reliant on the Metro and theres an interconnection between U.S. facilities and the transit system, the system constitutes a sensitive place, where local transit authorities may lawfully restrict firearms without violating the Second Amendment. Courts have repeatedly recognized that governments have broader authority to regulate and prohibit firearms on their property, Drezner wrote, before quoting U.S. v. Class, a 2019 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. As the owner of the [property], the governmentlike private property ownershas the power to regulate conduct on its property. Such prohibitions echo historical regulations demonstrating that the government has greater authority to regulate firearms on its own property just as private land owners may restrict guns on their own property. The plaintiffs are challenging D.C. Code Section 7-2509.07, which prohibits carrying in so-called sensitive areas. The law forbids licensed holders from carrying a pistol in D.C. government buildings and offices, various tourist attractions, child care facilities, schools, hospitals, penal institutions, places where alcohol is sold or consumed, U.S. Capitol buildings, on private residential property unless authorized by the owner or tenant, and on any public transportation vehicle, including the Metrorail transit system and its stations. These restrictions are questionable, according to the legal complaint (pdf). Metro may have its own police force, but the overwhelming number of trains and buses lack any police presence, the petition states. Because the Metro system is lightly policed, persons who need to travel around the District via the Metro are disarmed for the entirety of their journey. UK Prime Minister Liz Truss's decision to join the inaugural summit of a pan-European grouping has boosted the initiative, a brainchild of French President Emmanuel Macron already dismissed by some as another talkfest. The Prague summit of the European Political Community (EPC) will bring together the European Union's 27 leaders and 17 leaders from the continent currently outside the club including Britain, Turkey, Norway and Ukraine. Truss's decision to attend Thursday's meeting gives Britain an opportunity to shape a new European forum from the inside after Brexit. "The British took a very pragmatic tactic - if you cannot 'kill' the strange initiative, it is better to engage deeply and to direct it in your own way," a European diplomat told Reuters. Diplomats say the EPC's purpose is far from clear and many doubt it will last, with so many foes and friends around the table - even though it will address issues that preoccupy them all including energy, security and immigration. Macron wants to embrace EU candidate countries losing patience waiting for membership of the bloc and in doing so, counter attempts by Russia and China to gain influence in the continent's southern and eastern fringes. "One of the points is to be able to tell Kosovo and Albania we can do things with them and they don't have to rely only on Russia and China for investment," a French official said. Macron worries that the long road to meeting EU membership criteria could discourage Western Balkans nations, boosting populists and Euroscepticism. The French also think it is important to have a forum to discuss security with Britain, Europe's other big military power, or energy with Norway, which is helping Europe wean itself off Russian gas. However, Macron's lofty ideals about a happy "European family" are not widely shared. His proposal was initially seen with suspicion by eastern European countries, and Ukraine in particular, who suspected it was a ploy by France - long reluctant to admit more countries into the EU - to keep them in a sort of "purgatory". Story continues French officials deny this is the case and have gone out of their way to reassure them. "At the start we were afraid the EPC would be an alternative to EU membership, but as it develops now, I don't think so," an eastern European diplomat said. However, expectations remain low. "There are too many countries with too many interests ... How do you have Serbia and talk about Russia?" the eastern European diplomat said. "How do you have Turkey and Greece/Cyprus together? How to have Armenia and Azerbaijan at the same table?" While France is aware many feel the summit will amount to little more than a family photo of leaders at Prague Castle, it is pleased Ukraine has come up with proposals on what the EPC should look like and Moldova has offered to host the second summit. European diplomats say the initiative will also bring Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan closer to Europe and away from Russia. Turkey opened membership negotiations with the EU 23 years ago. Kremlin Calls for Cool After Putin Ally Urges Nuclear Strike Against Ukraine The Kremlin has called for a cool-headed approach to the potential use of nuclear weapons thats based on Russias established military doctrine rather than emotions after Putin ally Ramzan Kadyrov, head of Russias region of Chechnya, said on Saturday that Moscow should use a tactical nuke in Ukraine after Russian forces suffered a battlefield defeat. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that the basis for using nuclear weapons has been laid down in Russias official military doctrine and that decisions around using a nuclear bomb would not be made on impulse. Russias nuclear use guidelines allow for the use of such weapons if theyor other weapons of mass destructionare used against Russia, or if the Russian state faces an existential threat from conventional weapons. There can be no other considerations when it comes to this, Peskov said on a call with reporters. The Kremlin has said explicitly that the four regions of Ukraine that Moscow is in the process of formally annexing also fall under its nuclear umbrella. Calls for Low-Yield Nuclear Strike Recent battlefield setbacks in eastern Ukraineincluding losing the key bastion of Lymanprompted Chechnyas leader to call for Russia to get tougher. Kadyrov posted a message on Telegram on Oct. 1 criticizing the Russian military approach as being too soft. In my personal opinion, more drastic measures should be taken, right up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and the use of low-yield nuclear weapons, Kadyrov said. On Monday, Peskov was asked about Kadyrovs remarks, with the Kremlin spokesperson saying the Chechen leader has the right to express his opinion but that the use of nukes was not a decision to be taken impulsively. This is a very emotional moment. The heads of regions have the right to express their point of view, Peskov said. But even in difficult moments, emotions should be kept out of any kind of assessment. So we prefer to stick to balanced, objective assessments, he added. Head of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov speaks in Grozny, Russia, on Feb. 25, 2022. (Chingis Kondarov/Reuters) All Our Means The Chechen leaders remarks came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin proclaimed the annexation of four Ukrainian regionsincluding one where the last stronghold of Lyman is locatedand put them under Russias nuclear umbrella. Putin said Russia would defend the lands it had seized with all our strength and all our means, rhetoric that analysts say is meant to imply the threat of nukes. Russia has the worlds largest atomic arsenal, including low-yield tactical nuclear weapons that could be used in battlefield exchanges rather than against key strategic targets. The Russian president has said Russia is locked in an existential battle with the West, which he has accused of trying to destroy his country. He has insisted Russia will prevail in Ukraine, warning that hes only just begun to get serious. Putin warned the West he was not bluffing when he said Moscow was prepared to use nuclear weapons to protect its territory. Reuters contributed to this report. Latvian Prime Minister and Head of board of leading political party Jauna Vienotiba (New Unity) Krisjanis Karins smiles as he speaks to the media while awaiting the results of parliament elections, in Riga, Latvia, on Oct. 1, 2022. (Roman Koksarov/AP Photo) Latvian Prime Ministers Party Wins National Election HELSINKILatvias ruling party won the most votes in the countrys general election, according to results published Sunday. With 100 percent of the votes counted, Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins New Unity party had captured 18.97 percent support, while the opposition Greens and Farmers Union was second with 12.44 percent and the new electoral alliance United Listmade up of several regional partieswas third with 11.01 percent. Only seven parties or electoral alliances passed the 5 percent barrier and secured representation at the 100-seat Saeima legislature. None of the parties catering to Latvias ethnic Russian minority, which makes up more than 25 percent of the countrys 1.9 million people, managed to secure a seat in Parliament. Karins, a 57-year-old dual LatvianU.S. citizen born in Wilmington, Delaware, told media outlets earlier that it would be easiest to continue with the same coalition government if his party won. Valdis Dombrovskis, the executive vice president of the European Commission and a former Latvian prime minister, said the Baltic country was currently facing a very complicated geopolitical situation in a context of Russias aggression against Ukraine. Latvia, which borders Russia, joined the European Union and NATO in 2004. The victory of the prime ministers party, New Unity, I think, means that people voted for experienced political force with a clear Euro-Atlantic course, which can deal and lead a country in this complicated situation, Dombrovskis told New Unity supporters in the capital, Riga. Saturdays election was a blow particularly for Harmony, a Moscow-friendly party that traditionally served as an umbrella for most of Latvias Russian-speaking voters, including Belarusians and Ukrainians. Harmony received a mere 4.8 percent of votes in comparison to the 2018 election, when it garnered almost 20 percent of the vote, the most of any single party, but was excluded by other parties from entering the government. Russias invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24 had a substantial effect on voter attitudes, observers say, and resulted in a deep division between Russian-speakers opposing the war and those supporting it. Latvias economic situation, including soaring energy prices, was the main election issue. Initial voter turnout was 59.4 percent, the Central Election Committee said, higher than the 2018 election. This article was updated to reflect the latest vote count. People enter the Amazon Books store in New York City, on May 25, 2017. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Lawsuits Alleging Conspiracy Between Amazon and Book Publishers Dismissed by Judge Two antitrust lawsuits that accused Amazon and five big book publishers of illegally conspiring to fix prices of traditional and electronic books in the United States were dismissed on Thursday by a federal judge. The five book publishers targeted by the two lawsuits were Macmillan, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Hachette, and Penguin Random House. The first lawsuit was an antitrust litigation filed by Seattle-based law firm Hagens Berman. It was filed in the Southern District of New York in January last year, and it alleged that big publishers conspired with Amazon to keep the prices of e-books artificially inflated and sought to suppress price competition in the retail space. The five publishers also are alleged to have signed agreements with Amazon that gave the tech company a 30 percent fee for every e-book sale as well as providing a guarantee to Amazon that its prices will not be undercut. The second lawsuit, filed in March 2021 by Illinois-based firm bookseller Bookends & Beginnings, alleged that Amazon has been awarded a discriminatory discount on traditional books, including paperbacks and hardbacks, according to Reuters. As a result of this discount, the bookseller claimed that it is forced to pay higher wholesale prices to publishers and suffer low sales. Amazon is said to account for 50 percent of the sales of print trade books and 90 percent of retail e-books. The five publishers together account for 80 percent of both book markets, the plaintiffs claimed. Last month, U.S. Magistrate Judge Valerie Figueredo dismissed the two lawsuits, insisting that there was a lack of evidence to prove collusion between publishers and Amazon. Figueredo questioned why consumers in the lawsuit provided no reasoning as to what motivation book publishers would have to participate in the alleged conspiracy when such actions only strengthen Amazons dominance in the e-book market. On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Gregory Woods in Manhattan accepted Figueredos judgment and dismissed the two lawsuits without prejudice. Market Dominance and Author Incomes The dismissal of the lawsuit comes as the Department of Justice (DoJ) is opposing Penguin Random Houses proposed acquisition of Simon & Schuster. At the core of the case is a concern about author earnings. In the lawsuit, the DoJ argues that the proposed merger would likely result in authors earning less for their books. Prolific author Stephen King was a witness for the DoJ. At the court, he called the consolidation a bad development for a competitive market. When I started in this business, there were literally hundreds of imprints, and some of them were run by people with extremely idiosyncratic tastes, one might say. Those businesses were either subsumed one by one or they ran out of business. I think it becomes tougher and tougher for writers to find enough money to live on, King said, according to Publishers Weekly. The average American author makes around $20,000 per annum, which is below the federal poverty guidelines, National Book Award finalist Min Jin Lee noted in a tweet on Aug. 4. The merger between Penguin and Simon & Schuster will potentially create a large publisher and likely decrease the number of buyers of manuscripts, she warned. WHO team member Peter Daszak leaves his hotel after the World Health Organization (WHO) team wrapped up its investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Wuhan in China's central Hubei Province on Feb. 10, 2021. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images) Lockdowners Have No Shame or Remorse Commentary Ive just woken up to the astonishing news that Anthony Faucis agency (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) has doled out another $653,392 to Peter Daszak of EcoHealth Alliance. The money began to flow last week. Alex Berenson seems to have broken the story. Im in a state of disorientation and amazement, as are many others. The grant makes a mockery of every attempt to bring some accountability to these people. I would have thought that by now, at the very least, the major players in this calamity would be more surreptitious, cautious, or possibly even remorseful. It doesnt appear to be the case. Not only have they not received the message. They are fearless, more brazen than ever. How can we account for this? Is it hush money? Maybe. I suspect something even worse. None of these people believe there will ever be accountability. The elected representatives in a position to investigate and push for some justice are too few. The journalists and institutions covering the biggest scandal of our age are too few. If it werent for The Epoch Times, there would be no national newspaper focused on the pandemic response at all. Everyone else just wants to forget, and this is because too many individuals and institutions are compromised from having participated in lockdown propaganda (and are now embarrassed) or are otherwise financially hemmed in by reliance on pharmaceutical advertising. In such an environment, the perpetrators of misdeeds feel free to continue their capers in the open. You dont need a conspiracy theory to discern whats happening here. Its out in the open. Heres the page from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) accounting for the grant. EcoHealth is the sketchy nonprofit that the NIH has long used as a conduit to fund dangerous research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. The whole DaszakFauci relationship began at a 2013 cocktail party at Washingtons Cosmo Club, where Fauci delivered a short talk while insiders sipped champagne and attempted to make a meal out of caviar and cheese. By 2014, the meeting paid off. Katherine Eban in Vanity Fair explains: In 2014, Faucis agency had issued a $3.7 million grant to EcoHealth Alliance, a nongovernmental organization dedicated to predicting and helping to prevent the next pandemic by identifying viruses that could leap from wildlife to humans. The grant, titled Understanding the Risk of Bat Coronavirus Emergence, proposed to screen wild and captive bats in China, analyze sequences in the laboratory to gauge the risk of bat viruses infecting humans, and build predictive models to examine future risk. The Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) was a key collaborator to whom EcoHealth Alliance gave almost $600,000 in sub-awards. But the work there had been controversial enough that the NIH suspended the grant in July 2020. When news of the new virus from Wuhan started pouring in in late December 2019 and intensifying over January 2020, Daszak played a crucial role in pushing out the view that it was a nutty conspiracy to believe that COVID-19 might have originated from a lab leak. He wrote articles for the press and cosigned letters in The Lancet. Over time, of course, it became clear that the lab-leak theory wasnt crazy at all. Daszak has been central to the propaganda push from the beginning. On Feb. 27, 2020, The New York Times began its push for lockdowns and disease panic by interviewing their top virus reporter since fired (Donald G. McNeil) on the daily podcast. In this podcast, the newspaper broke a century of journalistic tradition and attempted to terrify the public about the virus. On that very day, Daszak wrote an op-ed for the newspaper. What are the chances? But as the world struggles to respond to Covid-19, we risk missing the really big picture, he wrote, clearly preparing the way to assure his complete lack of culpability for anything going on, even though he had funded gain-of-function research in Wuhan. Pandemics are on the rise, and we need to contain the process that drives them, not just the individual diseases. In this article, Daszak goes on to echo the views expressed by Fauci a few months later that it wasnt a lab leak, but rather human interaction itself (meaning freedom) thats the cause of infectious disease. He does a quick reconstruction of the history of infectious disease, blaming not bad sanitation or bad medicine but trade itself! His mantra: Plagues are not only part of our culture; they are caused by it. In other words, we need experts to control the whole of society in order to stop the next pandemic. Thats what they believe. They have the money and the power to make it possible. None of the investigations or even the cancellation of Daszaks previous grants from Fauci in July 2020 have deterred them. Not even a whistleblowers book, scheduled to appear on Nov. 15, makes a difference. Whats called the administrative statethe cash nexus between for-profits, nonprofits, and large agencies staffed by employees with permanent positions who are uncontrolled by any elected branch of governmentjust keeps barreling ahead. This is despite the extraordinary disgrace of the entire institution, having plunged the United States and world culture, economy, and legal restraints on states into total chaos. Another major indication of how confident they feel came from Deborah Birxs book on the subject of her tenure as coordinator of the White House Coronavirus Task Force under the Trump administration. She admits her lies on page after page. She lied about 15 days. She submitted false reports to the states. She used tax dollars to fly around the country and persuade governors to lock down longer and keep schools closed. There are two features of this narrative I find shocking. First, the content of her story itself is shocking in its admission and even bragging about subterfuge. Second, that she would admit it at all and feel no compunction to cover it up reveals something of the culture of the deep state. It believes that it rules the world and no one has the power to change that. This new grant for EcoHealth is a gross insult to every American, but its even more than that. Its a poke in the eye to anyone who believes in accountability in government. The lockdownersits a small group of insiders with enormous influence and powerare still riding high. They believe that theyre untouchable. Are they right? Maybe, provided people lose interest in following this story. The only thing standing between us and the complete collapse of civilization are the writers, scholars, institutions, and leaders who have the tenacity to stand up to this kind of outrage. The crucial battle of our time is only superficially between political parties and ideologies. The real battle is between the administrative stateFauci is a totem for entire machineryand the cause of freedom itself. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. 'Abortion isn't as easy as just taking a pill,' says the mom A UK woman who wasnt sure about continuing her pregnancy got abortion pills mailed to her home after just one quick telephone consultation. And after taking the first of two pills, she felt instant regret. However, she was lucky enough to be able to reverse the abortion drugs effect and save her babys life. Amrita Kaur, 27, from the town of Leamington Spa in Warwickshire, England, told The Epoch Times that a moment of extreme panic pushed her to try aborting her baby daughter, but seconds later, she was overwhelmed with regret and began searching for ways to undo the harm. This led Kaur to the abortion pill reversal treatment that saved her baby in real-time. Though Kaur lost a lot of her friends when she decided to keep her baby, the mom is thankful to have her precious little cheerleader in her life. I believe it is so important for women to have access to this [treatment], Kaur said. This has definitely lit a fire in me to share awareness of pregnancy, the [abortion] reversal pill and how abortion isnt as easy as just taking a pill. Starting the Abortion When a test in 2020 confirmed Kaur was pregnant, she felt like her world was falling apart. All my life plans and goals started going through my mind, she said. My eyes instantly filled up, and I cried for 20 minutes going through the things that I would never be able to do again if we kept the baby. Kaur and the babys father talked over all their possible options, seeking the advice of trusted family, who encouraged them to make their own decision. The weight of this decision was so, so heavy for us, Kaur said. We both cared about each other and didnt want to feel like each other was forced to do anything, but we also didnt want to tiptoe around our beliefs. The couple called the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) and booked a consultation to talk through their moral concerns, waiting a week to speak to someone. But the call with their counselor was unexpectedly brief. We had a list of questions ready, and the lady on the phone did not answer one, Kaur recalled. As soon as she heard the dads voice, she asked him to leave and simply said that its either I want the tablets or not. Out of fear of it becoming too late to get an abortion, I said yes. Within a couple of days, the abortion pills were at my door. Terrified, Kaur held onto the pills for days. She read articles about other womens experiences of infertility after taking abortion pills, and their experiences of loneliness and long-term regret. Kaurs friends suggested she take the pills, because the baby would stop them having fun. Coupled with her fear of financial instability and not having a job, Kaur panicked and took the first of two pills to abort her baby. Within seconds, I was overwhelmed with regret, she said. The Abortion Reversal Kaur immediately began researching reversal options and discovered a progesterone treatment available in America; she thought there was no chance of getting it in the UK. She called BPAS in a panic. But all they told her was that her feelings were normal, and that if she didnt have any bleeding, she should be fine and need not take the second pill. I didnt feel they took my urgent situation seriously, Kaur said. Thats when she found Dr. Dermot Kearney, a consultant cardiologist and past president of the UKs Catholic Medical Association. Kearney is a pro-life doctor who advocates an abortion pill reversal treatment to counteract mifepristonethe first of two drugs typically taken to terminate a pregnancy that is less than 10 weeks along. The progesterone treatment works only if the mother takes it before the second abortion pill, misoprostol, and can improve the survival rate of unborn babies. According to Abortion Pill Rescue Network, though the key is to start the treatment within the first 24 hours of taking mifepristone, there have been many successful reversals within 72 hours of taking the first abortion pill. The website states that some initial studies have shown the treatment has the success rate of 64 to 68 percent. The treatment is not yet FDA approved. Kaur called and spoke to Kearneys assistant. Within an hour, Kearney had returned her call and sent progesterone pills to her closest pharmacy. He also referred the expectant mom to a support service for the remainder of her pregnancy. Dr. Dermot was very caring and understood my worry and pain, she said. The following morning, I started to lightly bleed and took the pill. Being a Mom Kaur battled shame for taking the abortion pill, and feared that she had harmed her baby. But after taking progesterone for a week, she felt more pregnant, and her 8-week checkup confirmed that her baby was developing well. It was an amazing feeling, carrying a child, and providing for this little being inside me, she said. Baby Ahri-Storm Kaur Garrett was born at Warwickshire Hospital on Nov. 2, 2021. Kaurs mothering instinct, and awe for all women who bear children, kicked in immediately. I am incredibly grateful that I was lucky enough to find Dr. Dermot and reverse my decision, as I could not imagine my life without my little girl now, Kaur said. My view on pro-life is that fetuses are living, no matter how far along someone is I think there needs to be a lot more information out there about pregnancy, the side-effects of the abortion pill, and the reality of having a child; not just the negative view. Having a baby does not change your life for the negative. Advocating for Others Months after Kearney helped Kaur save her baby, and 31 other babies, the doctor was suspended for promoting the abortion reversal pill. In March, the General Medical Council lifted his suspension and decided to conclude the case with no further action, determining that complaints against him were hearsay from an abortion provider, and that none had originated from the women he treated, according to Life News. Kaur met Kearney in person for the first time when her daughter was 2 months old. She has since helped his mission by writing a statement about her positive experience with abortion reversal and joining him for interviews to spread awareness. My advice is to not hold onto guilt once you have a baby, it will always work out, as you have this protective fire to provide for your child, she said. The reality is that you are still your own woman, not just a mom, and have the ability to do anything you want to do. You just have a little cheerleader with you at all times! Kaur is in the process of returning to university to finish her degree. She holds that the power her daughter gives her to strive for a good life is so much stronger than any doubts. Arshdeep Sarao contributed to this report. Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Inspired newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey talks to reporters at the White House in Washington on April 3, 2019. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) New Arizona School Choice Law Takes Effect After Bid to Repeal Falls Short Arizonas new school choice law went into effect on Sept. 30 after a bid to repeal it fell short as supporters failed to gather enough signatures. Arizona officials informed the Save Our Schools Arizona PAC that the referendum on the matter will not qualify for the 2024 General Election Ballot, according to a Sept. 30 statement from Arizona Secretary Katie Hobbs, a Democrat. The political action committee needed to gather 118,823 signatures. That threshold will not be met, Hobbs said. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican who signed the law over the summer, said: Public education is about educating the public. Now every child in Arizona will have access to a high-quality school of their choice. Save Our Schools had said that they handed in more than 141,000 signatures. Secretaries of state perform a review of signatures for referendum proposals to verify which ones meet certain standards. Save Our Schools, responding to Hobbs announcement, said that the discrepancy stemmed from several factors, including the incredibly high volume of returns of petitions in the final week, days, and hours of the campaign. The development was a devastating blow, the committee said. The group blamed Ducey. We are confident we would have succeeded had Governor Ducey not waited 10 days to sign the bill, robbing Arizona voters of crucial time to sign the petition, it said. The Goldwater Institute, which had questioned some of the signatures, said that the failure to get the proposal on the 2024 ballot was a vindication of parents who are clamoring for choice in education. The Law House Bill 2853, the law, expands a school choice program called the Empowerment Scholarship Account Program. The law removes restrictions for each student to receive $7,000 annually for education. The money can be used for, among other education expenses, homeschooling or private school. Arizona is now the gold standard for educational freedom in America, Ducey said in a previous statement. Our kids will no longer be stuck in under-performing schools. By opening Empowerment Scholarship Accounts to every K-12 student, we will improve outcomes and make choice a reality for all students, added Arizona House Majority Leader Ben Toma, a Republican who sponsored the legislation. Save Our Schools said it opposed the legislation because it would take money away from public schools. Arizonas public schools are on the verge of losing over $76 million virtually overnight as these ESA voucher funds are siphoned to private schools and homeschooling with little to no academic or financial accountability, it said. This number will balloon rapidly over the next few years, potentially to over $1 billion per year. New Details About Potentially Privileged Documents From Trump Resort Made Public New details about the documents seized from former President Donald Trumps Florida residence were made public on Oct. 3. Among them were the two initial instances of investigators viewing potentially sensitive material. The Department of Justice used whats called a privilege review team to look over the materials taken from Mar-a-Lago in August and separate any materials that may be protected, including by attorney-client privilege. The government previously disclosed that on two occasions, workers not on the review team came upon materials that hadnt been separated. Benjamin Hawk, an attorney who helps lead the team, has said that the first instance was when investigators saw the top of a letterhead contained the name of a firm, and that the second instance involved a document that could potentially include privileged information. In a newly unsealed document that was originally filed on Aug. 30, the government said an investigator in the first instance found a document on Morgan Lewis letterhead comingled with newspapers. Morgan Lewis is an international law firm. Consistent with the filter protocols set forth in the Affidavit, the Case Team stopped its review of that entire box and provided it to the Privilege Review Team agents to conduct a review to identify and segregate potentially privileged materials, U.S. lawyers stated. In the affidavit for a search warrant for Mar-a-Lago, an FBI agent stated that if personnel assigned to the investigation identified any potentially privileged information, they would cease the review of the materials and hand it over to the privilege review team. The second instance involved an attorney for the team of investigators finding a 39-page set of materials that appear to reflect the former Presidents calls, the government said. Most of the pages in the set were titled The Presidents Calls and included the presidential seal. The documents contain handwritten names, numbers, and notes. The attorney noticed the notes, halted the review, and notified the review team, according to the filing. Cannon Order The government asked U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump appointee overseeing the Trump records case, to unseal the filing after Hawk described aspects of it during a court hearing. The broad strokes of the filing were made public during the hearing, making it so there was no compelling interest in maintaining the sealed status, government lawyers argued. Trumps lawyers opposed unsealing the document but hadnt identified any privileged information that should remain under seal or proposed any redactions, according to the government. Cannon ordered the document unsealed on Oct. 3, and it was made public soon after. Two attached files with more information about the potentially privileged materials remain under seal for purposes of protecting claims of attorney-client privilege, Cannon said. People wait in lines for gasoline at Costco Wholesale in Tustin, Calif., on Jan. 12, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) New Jersey Democrats Want to Require Costco to Sell Gas to Everyone, Not Just Members Democrat legislators in New Jersey are proposing two bills forbidding warehouse retail chains such as Costco Wholesale from limiting gasoline sales to retail club members. Neither bill mentions Costco by name, but the retailer made headlines in July by restricting gasoline sales at its New Jersey locations to members only. A standard Costco membership is $60 per year and is required to shop at Costco stores. Costco gas had been available to the general public in New Jersey since 2004, after state officials ordered Costco to make its gas stations accessible to nonmembers. However, the retail giant received clarification from state officials earlier this year that public access to its gas facilities was not required under consumer protection laws, allowing the company to reinstitute its members only rule. New Jersey State Politics Intervene Democrat state Sens. Vin Gopal and Richard Codey introduced S3029 (pdf) and S3000 (pdf), respectively, on Sept. 22, to require retail membership clubs to sell gasoline to nonmembers. The bills are very similar, and only one of the measures would need to be adopted to achieve the goal. I see gasoline the same as I would see food or energy bills or anything. I think its a public access, Gopal said, according to a New Jersey 101.5 radio report. Were not saying what they can and cant charge. Were saying that it should be made available to everyone. Gopals proposed bill states that keeping access open for nonmembers is vital to the public interest, due to potential decrease in the availability of gas stations in the state. Last time I checked, thats a commodity, Codey, a former New Jersey governor, told NJ.com regarding gasoline. Whats going on here? The two sponsors claim their separate bills against the restrictions do not constitute a restraint of trade against the company, or perpetuate economic harm to the public, as making the gas stations available to all residents outweighs the benefit for paying members. A representative for Costco declined to comment. Ending Members Only Gas Sales Gas is normally sold at cheaper prices at warehouse clubs compared to public stations, which led to long lines at Costco gas stations in June, when the national average price of gas exceeded $5 per gallon. After gas prices skyrocketed earlier in the year, many people who arent Costco members took advantage of the savings at Costco gas stations. The average cost for a gallon of gas in New Jersey as of Oct. 3 was $3.42, according to AAA, while the national average was $3.80 per gallon. Meanwhile, the average price at Costcos 18 gas stations in New Jersey for the week ending Sept. 30 was $3.20 per gallon, according to company website. The more we see corporations trying to take control of populations on what they can and cant spend I think is wrong, said Gopal. Theyre a merchant like anyone else. Weve got rising gas pricesalthough theyre dropping slightly, its still way higher than it was a year ago. And I dont think it should be limited to certain folks, he said. The bills would impose civil penalties on any club that violates the law up to $1,000 for a first offense, $5,000 for a second offense, and $10,000 for each subsequent offense. The New Jersey Legislature would need to approve the bills before Gov. Phil Murphy decides whether to sign them into law. Both measures are still awaiting their legislative hearings. New York Crowned the Richest City in the World 2022; Hong Kong Drops out of Top 10 American Consultation Firm Henley & Partners Group published its latest Worlds Richest Cities Report on Sep 13. The report confirmed that New York, Tokyo, and San Francisco are the cities with the most millionaires. With Hong Kong dropping quickly from the 8th in 2021 to the 12th this year, it has become the most affected city on the list. According to the report, there are currently 125,000 millionaires in Hong Kong. Among them, 28 are billionaires. Hong Kongs rival Singapore is number five, with 249,800 millionaires in the city, making it the second highest in Asia after Tokyo and fifth in the world. To be qualified as a millionaire by the list, a person has to own at least US$1 million in investable assets. Andrew Amoils, head of research at New World Wealth, said, 10 years ago, Hong Kong was the second richest city in the Asia-Pacific Region next to Tokyo. However, it was surpassed by Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, and Sydney. America Has The Most Millionaires Among the top 20 cities with the most millionaires, New York took the throne with 345,600 millionaires. San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston are in the top ten, and Dallas also made it onto the list. The report showed that Houston is the city that has increased most since 2021, it improved by four places and is now in eighth place. The number of millionaires in various cities is also shifting. For instance, New York City lost 12 percent of its millionaires in the first half of 2022. But San Francisco saw an increase of four percent. London, on the other hand, dropped nine percent and is now in fourth place. Based on the data by new world wealth, Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and Sharjah are the fastest growing cities of millionaires in 2022. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are among the cities with fast growth in millionaires. The UAEs low tax system and new residency plans have attracted the super-rich. Wealthy Russian immigrants also contributed to the UAEs record high of wealthy people. Beijing and Shanghai are losing their richest people, despite being placed at number nine and ten respectively. Henley & Partners predicted, before publishing the report, that about 10,000 high-net-worth Chinese millionaires would depart from China and migrate overseas in 2022. The Chinese migration trend would take away about $4.8 million per person. The total of $48 billion exiting China makes it the second most significant loss of the rich after Russia. Experts mentioned that people and capital decamping from China would accelerate Chinas social crisis. Before the Chinese Communist Party implemented Dynamic Zero-COVID to tackle the pandemic, wealthy millionaires had already been quietly fleeing. In 2017, the total number of Chinese billionaires migrating overseas was about 10,000 people, which rose 50 percent to 15,000 in 2018. In 2019, the number of Chinese emigrating to the west, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, was 15,000, ranking first globally. Peter Daszak, a member of the World Health Organization team investigating the origins of COVID-19, speaks to media upon arriving at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan in China's central Hubei province on Feb. 3, 2021. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images) NIH Approves Millions in New Grants to Organization That Funded Wuhan Lab Millions of federal dollars have continued flowing into EcoHealth Alliance, the New York-based nonprofit under heavy scrutiny for its role in funneling public money to a key laboratory in China for bat coronavirus research that many believe may have caused the COVID-19 pandemic. On Sept. 21, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued three grants to EcoHealth to fund its Asia-based research into viruses that have the potential to infect humans and spark an outbreak, government records show. At a total of $2.76 million, the funding marks an increase of nearly $700,000 from the amount awarded in 2021, and is the largest sum the organization has received from the NIH in a single year. The grantstwo of which have received NIH funding for three consecutive yearscame amid mounting congressional scrutiny over EcoHealths years-long partnership with the Wuhan lab that has been at the center of a lab-leak theory on the origins of COVID-19. Two of the grant projects are headed by the organizations president, Peter Daszak, who has repeatedly dismissed the lab-leak hypothesis, labeling it a conspiracy theory. That EcoHealth has funded risky research by the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) means that U.S. authorities should cease funding the organization altogether, some critics argue. Giving taxpayer money to EcoHealth to study pandemic prevention is like paying a suspected arsonist to conduct fire safety inspections. You would think we would have learned a lesson the first time, but here we are again with the same plot but a bigger budget! Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) told The Epoch Times in an email. Controversial Grant to Wuhan Lab The NIH in July 2020 suspended a multi-year grant worth $3.7 million to EcoHealth to study bat coronaviruses in China in collaboration with WIV, over concerns the grantees werent complying with the grant terms. Experts previously told The Epoch Times that the experiments conducted in the grant met the definition of gain-of-functionresearch that increases the transmissibility or pathogenicity of a virus. The NIH has denied that characterization. During a review of the concerns, the NIH found that EcoHealth had failed to report a WIV experiment that made the bat coronavirus more dangerous. The agency in November 2021 and again in January asked EcoHealth for copies of laboratory notebook entries and original electronic files from the research conducted at the Wuhan facility, but without success, causing the NIH to eventually terminate the WIV sub-award on Aug. 19, the NIH told the Committee on Oversight and Reform in a letter of the same date (pdf). Peter Daszak (R), Thea Fischer (L), and other members of the World Health Organization (WHO) team investigating the origins of the COVID-19 coronavirus, arrive at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan in Chinas central Hubei Province on Feb. 3, 2021. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images) Despite the termination, the NIH allowed EcoHealth to retain the grant by proposing, within 30 days, an alternative plan to accomplish the goals of the original project without the WIVs involvement, the agency said in another letter (pdf) on Aug. 19. The revised grant, according to the first letter, will be screened to ensure its in line with a 2017 framework (pdf) governing the review of proposed gain-of-function research. If the revised grant were approved, it would also be subject to additional oversight by the NIH, including onsite inspections of sub-recipient labs every six months to review their compliance. Benefits of New Grant Questioned The NIH didnt return repeated queries from The Epoch Times to clarify the terms of the September grants, but the new grant, with the project number 1R01AI163118-01A1, appears to be the revised grant that excludes the participation of WIV. Titled Analyzing the Potential for Future Bat Coronavirus Emergence in Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, the five-year project led by Daszak will focus on three southeastern Asian countries neighboring China, with a goal to analyze the behavioral and environmental risk factors for spillover of novel CoVs [coronaviruses], identify wildlife-to-human spillover events, assess the risk and drivers of community transmission and spread, and test potential public health interventions to disrupt spillover and spread, according to a project summary published on the NIH website. The 2022 funding of $653,392 from NIH is also comparable to the terminated grant, which received roughly $3.75 million in total from 2014 to 2019. Richard Ebright, a molecular biologist at Rutgers University whos raised concerns about the governments approach to sponsoring risky research, reviewed the project summary and concluded that the research didnt involve gain-of-function experiments. But he noted that a risk-benefit analysis of the project that seeks to discover new bat viruses looks highly unfavorable. With respect to benefits, the research has nozerocivilian applications, Ebright told The Epoch Times in an email, adding that the only practical applications of the research are biodefense applications (i.e., discovery and threat assessment of new bioweapons agents). On the other hand, by collecting novel potential pandemic pathogens in remote locations and transporting them to laboratories in human population centers, the research poses high risks of triggering new pandemics, he said. In conjunction with EcoHealths documented track record of inadequate biosafety precautions and reckless procedures during field collection and laboratory research, the risks should be deemed not only as high but as extremely high, he said. A researcher at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan in Chinas central Hubei Province feeds a worm to a bat in a 2017 video. (Screenshot) Related Coverage Footage of Bats Kept in Wuhan Lab Fuels Scrutiny Over Its Research Footage from the Wuhan facility shows a history of disregard for safety standards. Its 2017 promotional video features images of a researcher feeding live bats while wearing only surgical gloves, and some WIV staff collecting bat samples in the field while wearing only regular surgical masks. A researcher from the lab also told Chinese media that he had been bitten by bats while out in the field collecting samples. Outcry According to Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), the NIHs decision to continue funding EcoHealth is inexcusable. It is beyond belief that NIH is choosing to be willfully ignorant of EcoHealth Alliances failure to follow federal laws and NIHs grant policy requirements, the senator, who last month sought to cut multimillion-dollar grants from another U.S. agency to EcoHealth, told The Epoch Times in an email. Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) questions Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, at a Senate panel on June 16, 2022. (The Epoch Times via the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee) EcoHealth and NIH are operating in tandem to proliferate risky research with deadly pathogens out of the reach of U.S. oversight. It is inexcusable that NIH chooses to extend unprecedented power and funding to Peter Daszaks noncompliant organization and ignore their own policy of holding the principal investigator accountable for the misconduct of its sub-awardee, the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Marshall said. Continuing to invest public funds in a company as shady as EcoHealth is dangerous and irresponsible. EcoHealth is the recipient of dozens of federal grants since 2002. Among these, 13 are still active, the U.S. grant database indicates. The largest single grant came from the U.S. Agency for International Development at $4.7 million, a five-year award given in 2021. Besides NIH, other grantors were the Department of Defenses Defense Threat Reduction Agency and the National Science Foundation. Republicans on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce who have been probing EcoHealths activities also expressed outrage at the continuing funding. EcoHealth Alliance and Peter Daszak should not be getting a dime of taxpayer funds until they are completely transparent to the Energy and Commerce Committee and the American people. Period, Jack Heretik, spokesman for Energy and Commerce Republicans, told The Epoch Times in an email. Such spending of taxpayer money is counterintuitive, said Justin Goodman, senior vice president of advocacy and public policy at White Coat Waste Project, which has been probing EcoHealth and WIVs research. EcoHealth Alliances animal experiments should be de-funded, not re-funded, he told The Epoch Times in an email. This shady group funneled US tax dollars to the Wuhan Institute of Virology for dangerous animal experiments that likely caused the pandemic, skirted a federal ban on gain-of-function research, repeatedly violated transparency law, and obstructed investigations into COVIDs origins. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund this reckless rogue lab contractor any longer. EcoHealth and NIH didnt respond to inquiries from The Epoch Times regarding criticism directed at the new grants. Catholic Charities of the Finger Lakes will host Empty Bowls Dinners in Geneva and Auburn in October. The dinners coincide with World Hunger Day and are intended to raise awareness of the agency's hunger programs and services, as well as financial support for them. Guests will learn about local anti-poverty efforts and receive a handmade ceramic bowl to serve as a reminder that hunger exists in the community. The bowls are made and donated by local artists and organizations, including Weedsport and Port Byron schools and Cayuga Community College. The dinners will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, at Our Lady of Peace Parish Center on Center Street in Geneva, and from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, in the parish hall of Sacred Heart Church, 90 Melrose Road, Owasco. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children younger than 10. For more information, call (315) 789-2235 ext. 104, email rhonda.zettlemoyer@dor.org or visit catholiccharitiesfl.org. Jean Ballard protests Fairfax County school boards pro-transgender policy outside the Luther Jackson Middle School in Falls Church, Va., on June 16, 2022. (Terri Wu/The Epoch Times) Nonprofit Offers Conservative Texas School Boards Alternative Training Texas conservatives against liberal-based training for school administrators and trustees last week launched an alternative program focusing on education instead of a woke agenda. James Dunn, founding president of the Gulf Coast Community Action Agency (GCCAA) in Angleton, Texas, told The Epoch Times his nonprofit was recently approved to offer training for superintendents and elected school board trustees. Were very excited about that, Dunn said, adding that Texas 1,200 Independent School Districts (ISD) now have a choice regarding training. The state requires elected school board members to attend continuing education training, which is currently dominated by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) and Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). Dunn, a former school superintendent, said his organization would focus on training administrators in good governance and fiscal responsibility, free from social issues that are better left to parents for guidance. Parents are concerned their rights are being taken away, Dunn said. They send their kids to be taught reading, writing, arithmeticnot transgender, not socialization issues, but the basics. Dunn said that teacher unions have hijacked the profession and incorporated a left-of-center political agenda into training. Julie Pickren, who serves on the GCCAA board and is a former Brazoria ISD trustee, said that as a conservative, she often felt uncomfortable at trustee training sessions that went against her principles. Pickren, also running for the State Board of Education, pointed to the September TASB/TASA conference in San Antonio, where the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas presented transgender student speakers and advocated for LGBT rights in schools. In general, the training she attended while a school board trustee tended to be very woke, very radical left, she said. Pickren recalls having to attend a training session in 2019 presented by trustees with Houston ISD, whichwith an 82 percent graduation rateshe said is one of the lowest performing districts in Texas and operates at a high budget deficit. She feels the new training service will offer a much-needed alternative for more conservative districts that focus on educational goals and responsible use of taxpayer funds. Dunn said he set up a training website and has been notifying his network of educators about training options, with the first offered mid-October in South Lake for trustees and superintendents. So far, 15 different districts have expressed interest, he said. The goal is to provide training once a month at various locations around the state, Dunn said. Pickren said training should help school districts to be successful in their mission of educating children while guarding against potentially harmful content such as LGBT and pornography in libraries. You have to protect children mentally and physically, she said. What you have now is a breakdown in trust between parents and their school districts. The half brother of former U.S. President Barack Obama, Malik Obama, watches the final presidential debate at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada on Oct. 19, 2016. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) Obamas Brother Endorses Republican Doug Mastriano in Pennsylvania Governor Race Malik Obama, the half-brother of former President Barack Obama, has endorsed the Republican candidate for governor in Pennsylvania, Doug Mastriano. Taking to Twitter on Sunday, Malik Obama responded to a post from American conservative author and podcast host Jack Posobiec in which he suggested that the older Obama may like Mastriano and should check him out. If hes with President Trump then Im with @dougmastriano Pennsylvania Senator PA District 33, Obama responded to the post. Republican gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano gives a victory speech at his election-night party at The Orchards in Chambersburg, Pa., on May 17, 2022. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images) Former President Donald Trump endorsed Mastriano in the primary race for governor earlier this year, saying in a statement that there is no one in Pennsylvania who has done more, or fought harder, for election integrity than state Senator Doug Mastriano. The 45th president added that Mastriano is a pro-Trump, America First candidate who will fight crime, address election problems, promote pro-life policies, protect the Second Amendment, and support the U.S. military and veterans. Mastriano, an Afghanistan and Iraq veteran, is facing Democratic Attorney General Josh Shapiro in the Pennsylvania gubernatorial race. Shapiros campaign has promised to be pro-abortion and expand access to reproductive care, and veto any efforts to restrict mail-in voting, expand early voting, and set up automatic voter registration. Recent polls suggest Shapiro is leading. In a separate post on Sunday, Malik Obama also weighed in on Brazils presidential election race between left-wing candidate and former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Conservative incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro. Sunday saw neither candidate receive more than 50 percent of the ballot in the race, meaning the two now head to a second-round run-off later this month. (L) Former president of Brazil and candidate of the Workers Party Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Sao Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, on Oct. 2, 2022. (Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images); (R) Incumbent President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Oct. 2, 2022. (Buda Mendes/Getty Images) Make America Great Again Is a Great Slogan The older Obama brother took aim at Lula on Twitter, stating that Lula of Brazil is a jail bird, in an apparent reference to the time Lula spent in prison after he was convicted on charges of money laundering and corruption at the state-owned oil and petrol company, Petrobras. Lula spent 580 days behind bars before his conviction was overturned by the Supreme Court, which decided he should be tried in his state of residence instead of the state in which he was accused, paving the way for a 2022 presidential run. He is yet to be retried in court. This isnt the first time that Malik Obama has expressed his support for Trump. Back in 2016, the businessman told reporters that he planned to travel from Kenya to the United States in November to vote for the Republican presidential candidate. He previously worked in Maryland, where he was a registered Democrat. I like Donald Trump because he speaks from the heart, Malik Obama told the New York Post from his home in the village of Kogelo. Make America Great Again is a great slogan. I would like to meet him, he said. He also touted Trump as being a down-to-earth kind of person who approaches issues directly and does not mince his words, according to the newspaper. During that same interview, Obama also said he was disappointed that the FBI had decided not to prosecute Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton over the controversial use of a private email server for public communications while she was secretary of state. In response to his comments at the time, Trump wrote on Facebook: Wow, President Obamas brother, Malik, just announced that he is voting for me, adding that he was probably treated badly by [the] presidentlike everybody else! Malik Obama revealed last month that he has not spoken with former President Barack Obama since 2015 amid differing political views. Orange County executive Steven Neuhaus in his office in Goshen on Sept. 29, 2015. (Yvonne Marcotte/The Epoch Times) New York County Executive Proposes $7.6 Million Cut in Property Tax Executive Steven Neuhaus proposes to slash the property tax levy in Orange County, New York, by $7.6 million to $126.5 million in the coming year. Largely due to booming sales tax, the county can expand services and take on new initiatives in 2023 without asking property owners for more money, according to Neuhaus at a virtual budget presentation on Sept. 29. He proposes a county budget of $896.3 million, an 8 percent jump from the year before. Goshen Town Hall at 41 Webster Avenue in Goshen, N.Y., on June 27, 2016. (Holly Kellum/The Epoch Times) However, drops in property tax levy and tax ratethe proposed property tax rate of $2.8 per thousand is the lowest the county has seen in 46 yearsdo not equate to lower property tax bills for every homeowner. In areas where property value rises faster than the tax rate drops, residents will still see higher property taxes in the coming year. Since 2014, the county property tax rate has gone down by 9.6 percent, while property values have increased by 32.6 percent, according to the budget presentation. Orange countys economy centers around tourism, and county services are largely funded by sales taxthe single largest revenue source for county government. In the past five yearsexcept for the pandemic yearthe county sales tax has risen steadily. Neuhaus expects to collect $393.8 million in sales tax in 2023. A Lego character dragon greets guests from a tower at the front entrance to the Legoland New York Hotel during its grand opening at the Legoland Resort on Aug. 6, 2021 in Goshen, New York. (Michael Loccisano/Getty Images) He said about a quarter of sales taxes will be distributed back to local cities, towns, and villages. As tourism thrives, hotel and motel taxes are rising too, estimated to be $6.7 million next year. The county has about 3,800 hotel rooms, with 350 more in construction and 1,500 more in planning. To drive up tourism even further in the coming year, Neuhaus plans a million-dollar campaign to promote big attractions such as West Point, Storm Kings, and Legoland as well as businesses and festivals in small towns and villages. New Services and Expenses The county plans a new mobile Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office next year. It now has three DMV offices in Middletown, Newburgh, and Goshen. Neuhaus also plans upgrades at Thomas Bull Memorial Park, renovation of the county homeless shelter HONOR, and reconstruction of four bridges in the county in 2023. On top of that, several county buildings will be upgraded to be accessible to disabled people. When it comes to expenses for the county, human serviceswhich include those provided to seniors, families in need, veterans, and the labor forcecost the most, about 27 percent of the total budget for next year. Orange County Courthouse in Goshen, N.Y., on September 26, 2022. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times) Health serviceswhich cover mental health support, the Health Department, and the county nursing home Valley Viewcome second, taking up 18 percent of the budget. Neuhaus said the cost for Valley View might rise above the budgeted amount if state and federal aid continue to back off funding the nursing center. Public safety-related services, which consist of the Sheriffs Office, the District Attorneys Office, the 911 Center, and probation services, account for 15 percent of the budget. Fluidity Neuhaus may amend his budget based on changes in revenue forecasts or cost estimates in the coming months, according to his budget presentation. For example, the county has several state mandates, and it remains unknown if the state or the county will pick up the tab. One mandate has to do with increased attorney compensation following new state court decisions. Also, county voters will elect a new sheriff in November, with whom Neuhaus will review and amend the public safety budget. The county legislature will mark the budget by mid-November and pass a final budget by the end of December. Orange County Mayors Breakfast Encourages Local Leaders With Faith, Prayers IRVINE, Calif.Standing before an audience of hundreds, Michael Franzesea former New York mob bossrecalled a Forbes article from the 1980s that listed him as one of the 50 most wealthy mafia members in the United States. He was number 18, and 35 years old, the youngest on the list, he said. Out of that list of 50, some 30 odd years later, 48 are dead, one is still in prison, and number 50 is herefor one reason and one reason only, he said. And thats to give praise, honor, and glory to my Lord, and Savior, and my hero in life: Jesus Christ. Michael Franzese speaks at the 57th Annual Orange County Mayors Prayer Breakfast in Irvine, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) Franzese was the keynote speaker at the 57th Mayors Prayer Breakfast held this year in Irvine at the Marriott Hotel Sept. 30. The prayer breakfast has been an annual gathering in Orange County since 1964modeled after the annual National Prayer Breakfast first held by President Dwight Eisenhower in Washington in 1953. The mission is to support and encourage our mayors through prayer, Dana Haynes, chair of event organizer Orange Coast Christian Outreach, told The Epoch Times. The event has grown from including only the Mayor of Newport Beach to mayors of all of coastal Orange County, according to Haynes. The 57th Annual Orange County Prayer Breakfast in Irvine, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) After being introduced by John Moorlachformer state senator, county supervisor, and county treasurermayors shared on stage the importance of faith and of exercising faith in their cities. Those who spoke included Farrah Khan of Irvine, Joe Muller of Dana Point, Kevin Muldoon of Newport Beach, Wendy Bucknum of Mission Viejo, Gene James of San Clemente, John Stephens of Costa Mesa, and Carol Moore of Laguna Woods, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Howard Hart of San Juan Capistrano and Mayor Pro Tem Sandy Rains of Laguna Niguel. We must regularly exercise our freedoms, including our first and most important right to worship the Lord our God in the way we see fit, Muldoon told attendees. If we speak His name, no one can defeat us. Several dozen students from the Vanguard University Choir also sang Great Is Thy Faithfulness and God Is So Good, followed by local Pastors Larry Desimone of Calvary Chapel of the Canyons and Matt Doan of Calvary Church of Santa Ana reading passages of the Old and New Testaments. Isaiah 41:10 says this Do not be afraid for I am with you. Do not be discouraged for I am your God, Doan read. The Vanguard University Choir sings at the 57th Annual Orange County Mayors Prayer Breakfast in Irvine, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) In concluding the event, Franzesewho left mafia life, he said, after a renewal of his Christian faith in the 1990s and became a motivational speaker encouraging young people at prisons, schools, and churches that no one is beyond Gods redemption in this lifelead the audience in prayer. If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, then you will be saved, so right now at your tables I want you to close your eyes and just repeat this prayer after me, Franzese said. God, thank you for creating me and loving me. Im tired of living my own way. I need help and Im asking you to oversee my life. Im sorry for all the ways that I messed up and sinned against you. Please forgive me. I believe that your son Jesus died on a cross for my sins, rose from the dead and has the power to forgive me for all Ive done wrong. I surrender my life to you. And I want to go your way, not mine, he prayed. Republican U.S. Senate candidate Dr Mehmet Oz (R) holds a press conference with U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) in Philadelphia, Pa., on Sept. 6, 2022. (Mark Makela/Getty Images) OzFetterman Race Tightens as Candidates Campaign in Pittsburgh Pittsburgh was front and center last weekend in the Pennsylvania U.S. Senate race as Republican nominee Mehmet Oz held a press conference downtown on Sept. 30, while Democratic opponent John Fetterman spoke at a rally in the citys Strip District the next day. Fetterman is Pennsylvanias lieutenant governor and a former longtime mayor of Braddock, a borough of 1,633, eight miles southeast of Pittsburgh. At the Oct. 1 rally, Fetterman walked out to the stage to Renegade, a 1979 song by Styx thats a fan favorite during Pittsburgh Steelers home football games. Im kind of a Heinz Stadium, Dr. Oz is more of an Acrisure Stadium, Fetterman said. State Lt. Gov. and U.S. senatorial candidate John Fetterman delivers remarks during a Women for Fetterman rally at Montgomery County Community College in Blue Bell, Pa., on Sept. 11, 2022. (Kriston Jae Bethel/AFP via Getty Images) Since both candidates won their primaries, Fetterman has trolled Oz on social media and in speeches and interviews, sharing his viewpoint that the celebrity surgeon is a wealthy carpetbagger whos out of touch with Pennsylvanians. Heinz owned the naming rights to the Steelerss stadium until this year, when the iconic Pittsburgh brand opted to not renew its contract. The stadium now bears the name of Acrisure Insurance, which is based in Michigan. Fetterman had a double-digit lead in polls over the summer, when he mostly remained at home recovering from a severe stroke he suffered before the May 3 primary. Oz and multiple media outlets have called for Fetterman to release his medical records, questioning his ability to fulfill his role as a senator if he wins on Nov. 8. The Oz campaign has also criticized Fetterman for only agreeing to one debateon Oct. 25, two weeks before the Nov. 8 general election and more than a month after the start of early voting. The 53-year-old Fetterman has made few public appearances and has rarely talked to the media since the stroke. You know, the only lingering issue that I have after that stroke is sometimes auditory processing, sometimes, Fetterman said at the rally. And, every now and then, I might miss a word or, sometimes, you know, I might mush two words together. Let me give you an example. OK, now imagine, lets assume, I maybe want to go shopping at Wegmans, and Im actually standing in a Redners, but I actually think Im shopping in Wegners. Thats what its like to kind of mush two words together, but something that doesnt really exist. Thank you, Dr. Oz, for that. Fettermans story referenced a video posted on Twitter by Oz in April in which he stood in a grocery store and blasted the excessive cost of vegetables he said he needed for a crudite platter. For months, Fetterman has shared the video and often accompanied it with comments such as, In Pennsylvania, we call that a veggie tray. How many of you, how many have you ever heard the word crudites? Anyone? Anyone ever heard it? he said. I actually thought it was about my stroke. I had to Google it to find out what it is. Oz continues to brush off Fettermans jabs and focus on his opponents unwillingness to release his medical records or commit to more than one debate. I have tremendous empathy for what John Fetterman is going through. Its an area that I specialize in in medicine. All of these issues are challenges, especially if youre in the political arena, which is physically demanding, Oz told reporters last month. Focus on the voters, though. They have a right to hear my opponent articulate and defend his policies. John Fetterman has been ducking, dodging these debates, which is insulting to the voters of Pennsylvania. And he has to own the reasons for his desire to avoid a debate with me. Either hes healthy, which he says he is, and doesnt want to answer for his radical positions in past statements, or hes lying about his health. Oz released his medical records in September. In a statement last week, Fetterman said Ozs health records from a New York physician are more evidence that Oz doesnt live in Pennsylvania. We didnt need to know Dr. Ozs bone density. We need to know whether he would vote to ban all abortions after 15 weeks. We need to know whether he would vote to raise the minimum wage. We need to know whether he even plans to stay in Pennsylvania after the election, Fetterman said in the statement. In June, he released a doctors letter claiming that hes fit to serve if hes elected. We have disclosed more information about Johns health than any senator who wasnt running for presidentand even some who have, Fetterman campaign spokesman Joe Cavello said in a statement. We have released a letter from his cardiologist, John put out a candid letter directly from himself and talked about this extremely personal process with reporters where he has spoken about the lingering effect of the stroke, his auditory processing issue. Oz and Fetterman are vying to replace retiring Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.). Oz and Toomey spoke at the Sept. 30 press conference in Pittsburgh. They said Fetterman is too extreme for Pennsylvania and attacked the candidates progressive criminal justice reform policies. We have 50 different states. I probably couldnt get elected to Senate in Vermont. Bernie Sanders cant get elected in Pennsylvania, Toomey said. John Fetterman aligns himself with the Bernie Sanders wing of the Democratic Party. That is who he is. That is not a fit for Pennsylvania. Oz reinforced his support for more natural gas drilling in western Pennsylvania and the creation of more pipelines across the state. He also advocated for a liquified natural gas plant off the east coast to carry gas overseas. Oz and Fetterman experienced different paths to the general election. While Fetterman decisively won the Democratic primary, Oz defeated Republican opponent David McCormick by less than 1,000 votes in a race that wasnt determined until a recount. Fettermans double-digit lead in the polls has decreased to 3 points, according to a Franklin & Marshall poll released last week. RealClearPolitics shows Fetterman with a 4.5-point advantage when factoring in the average of all polls. Democrats once thought the race was heavily in Fettermans favor. Republicans now see Pennsylvania as a potential victory as the party strives to regain control of the Senate. The Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC thats aligned with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and the National Republican Senate Committee are spending tens of millions of dollars to bolster Oz. The chairman [Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.)] feels very confident we can get to 52 [seats], holding Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, and picking up Georgia and Nevada, Chris Hartline, communications director for the National Republican Senate Committee, said in a statement. They are our core four. Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Dies: Court Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Max Baer died just months before he was slated to retire, the court said over the weekend. Baer, 74, died on Saturday at his home near Pittsburgh, the court confirmed in a news release. Other details about his death were not provided. Pennsylvania has lost a jurist who served the Court and the citizens of the Commonwealth with distinction, said new Chief Justice Debra Todd in a news release. Chief Justice Baer was an influential and intellectual jurist whose unwavering focus was on administering fair and balanced justice. He was a tireless champion for children, devoted to protecting and providing for our youngest and most vulnerable citizens. Baer was elected to the court as a Democrat, and his death leaves a 42 Democrat majority on the commonwealths high court. In 2003, he was first elected to the Supreme Court before he was sworn in as the high courts chief justice in 2021. Earlier this year, Baer was part of the 5-2 majority as the Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld a wide expansion of mail-in voting in Pennsylvania. Notably, he also sided with the courts majority in a ruling that favored Democrats to extend the use of the states mail-in voting and ballot drop boxes with weeks to go before the 2020 election. Todd added that Baers distinguished service and commitment to justice and fairness spanned his decades on the bench, including as a family court judge in Pennsylvanias Allegheny County. He eventually worked as an administrative judge in a family court before he was elected to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. On behalf of the Court, Todd wrote, we offer our deepest condolences to family, friends, and colleagues of Chief Justice Baer. Baer was set to retire at the end of 2022 after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75. The court said the seat had already been slated to be on the 2023 ballot, and in the interim the governor may choose to make an appointment, subject to confirmation by the Senate. Gov. Tom Wolf ordered state flags at commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds lowered to half-staff. Im extremely saddened to learn that Chief Justice Baer passed away, Wolf, a Democrat, said in a statement. He was a respected and esteemed jurist with decades of service to our courts and our commonwealth. I am grateful for his contributions and leadership in the Supreme Court. The governors office told the Pittsburgh Tribune on Saturday that Wolf hasnt yet decided whether to nominate a replacement for Baer. That nominee would require the approval of two-thirds of the GOP-controlled state Senate, while Pennsylvania voters will elect a permanent replacement in 2023. On behalf of the Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus, I offer my deepest condolences and sympathies to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of Chief Justice Max Baer, said Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff, a Republican, in a statement to the Tribune. Of note, his admirable work in the area of foster care, adoption and child advocacy is something that has had a monumental impact on the lives of countless Pennsylvania children and made the dream of becoming a family a reality for many. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Rein In EPAs Authority Over Wetlands, Idaho Couple Urges Supreme Court The attorney for an Idaho couple who have been battling federal officials for years over the right to develop their own property asked the Supreme Court on Oct. 3 to rein in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys (EPAs) power to regulate wetlands. Chantell and Mike Sackett had started building a new home in Priest Lake, Idaho, when the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers suddenly ordered them to stop all work. The two government agencies stated that the couple needed a federal permit and threatened them with more than $30,000 in daily fines. The EPA had determined years before that their parcel of land contained wetlands. The Sacketts say their lot lacks a surface water connection to any stream, creek, lake, or other water body, and it shouldnt be subject to federal regulation and permitting. Even though water isnt usually visible on their land, the government claims that, based on aerial photography, the lot is home to a fen wetland. Fens are peat-forming wetlands that rely on groundwater input and require thousands of years to develop and cannot easily be restored once destroyed, according to a USDA Forest Service report. Fens are hotspots of biodiversity and figure prominently in nearly all scenarios of CO2-induced global change because they are a major sink for atmospheric carbon, according to the report. The Sacketts are asking the Supreme Court to revisit its 2006 ruling in Rapanos v. United States, which was a fractured plurality decision that created uncertainty about the applicable legal standard. Led by the late Justice Antonin Scalia, four of the nine justices found that the Clean Water Act regulates a wetland only if it has a continuous surface connection to another waterway. Then-Justice Anthony Kennedy devised his own legal test, finding that the law covers wetlands that have a significant nexus to a larger body of water. The Biden administration favors the nexus standard. Its now going on 16 years since petitioners Mike and Chantell Sackett began construction of a house on a vacant lot in a largely built-out subdivision, lawyer Damien Schiff told the Supreme Court. Schiff is a senior attorney at Pacific Legal Foundation (PLF), a Sacramento, California-based national public interest law firm that represents the couple. Yet their home-building plans remain on hold to this day because EPA remains steadfast in its view that their property contains navigable waters, subject to regulation under the Clean Water Act. But under no plausible interpretation of that term does the agency have such authority. A body of water can be regulated under the act, but a wetland falls outside the scope of the law and can only be regulated to the extent that it blends into and thus becomes indistinguishable from an abutting water, Schiff said. The water must also be navigable, which the small stretch of water on the Sacketts land isnt, he noted. This legal framework is vastly superior to the nexus test because it faithfully vindicates all of Congresss purposes, not just its water-quality purposes, but also its desire to preserve the states traditional preeminence over land and water resources. This is an easy-to-administer test in which ordinary citizens can use their own eyes to reliably determine whether or not their land is regulated, Schiff said. [Under this framework,] its clear that the Sacketts property contains no waters, much less waters of the United States, and so they should be entitled to a declaration that their property is not subject to EPAs authority, the attorney said. Responding to questions from Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, Schiff said: Everyone recognizes that nonpoint source pollution is a serious water quality issue, but its never been disputed that the Clean Water Act doesnt reach that, which I think emphasizes that the purpose of Congress in enacting the Clean Water Act was not at all costs lets clean up water quality as much as we can. It was a balancing to recognize that some water quality measures, like wetlands regulation, inevitably, as the Sacketts case demonstrates, inevitably convert EPA and the Corps into land use administrators. According to the EPA, nonpoint source pollution takes place when runoff from rain and snowmelt carries pollutants into waterways such as streams, lakes, rivers, wetlands, and groundwater. Justice Brett Kavanaugh pushed back against Schiff, saying that he was making legal distinctions that dont appear in the act. Why did seven straight administrations not agree with you? Kavanaugh asked. Schiff said, I dont presume to know more than those seven prior administrations, but what I do know is what is the text that Congress has used, and nothing can supersede that. Brian Fletcher, principal deputy U.S. solicitor general, told the court that everyone agrees that the waters protected by the Clean Water Act include some adjacent wetlands. The narrow but important question presented in this case is whether wetlands lose protection if theyre separated from other waters by a barrier like a berm or a road, Fletcher said. Overwhelming scientific evidence and essentially undisputed scientific evidence shows that those sorts of barriers do not diminish wetlands essential role in protecting the integrity of other waters. In 1977, Congress had the opportunity to adopt proposals that sound like what Schiff is arguing, but it refused to do so, according to Fletcher. Instead, it adopted Section 1344(g), which includes express textual recognition that the waters covered by the Act include adjacent wetlands, he said. Justice Neil Gorsuch asked Fletcher how a person wanting to develop his land, who could face time in federal prison for making the wrong decision, was supposed to know that it came under EPA authority. Fletcher said federal agencies recognize the problem and make available free of charge jurisdictional determinations as to any property. They also publicize their manuals and make available on websites every jurisdictional he said before he was cut off by Gorsuch. The justice said, Their manuals, though, dont tell us the answer. The case is Sackett v. EPA, court file 21-454. Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) departs the Senate floor following a vote to proceed to the Inflation Reduction Act in Washington, on Aug. 6, 2022. (Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images) Republicans Will Secure at Least 52 Senate Seats: Sen. Rick Scott Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, said on Oct. 2 that the Republican Party will take back the Senate in November. My effort right now is on the hurricane relief for this hurricane, but absolutely I think were at 52 seats-plus, Scott told NBCs Meet the Press. If you look at Bidens numbers, theyre really bad. People have rejected the Biden agenda. We have great candidates. The Democrats have to defend what Biden has done. I think it will be a good November for Republicans, but we have to keep working hard every day. With the midterm elections about a month away, the balance of the Senate could come down to a few states. In Wisconsin, incumbent Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) has taken the lead over Democratic Senate candidate and Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, according to the latest polls. In Pennsylvanias Senate race, Republican nominee Mehmet Oz has pulled into a statistical tie with Democratic nominee and Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, according to the latest poll from the Emerson College/The Hill survey. The two are contending for the seat vacated by retiring Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.). Republican Senate candidates in Arizona and New Hampshire are trailing their Democratic opponents. According to a recent Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll (pdf), incumbent Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) held an 8.4 percentage-points lead over Republican candidate Don Bolduc in the Granite State. Incumbent Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) was backed by 49 percent of likely voters, leading Republican candidate Blake Masters by 6.8 percentage points in Arizonas Senate race, according to a recent Suffolk University/Arizona Republic poll (pdf). Scott and Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, recently told Politico that Nevada and Georgia are the key battlegrounds for the Senate majority. If you look at the polls, Nevada and Georgia are the two logical ones, Scott told NBC. Peters told the media outlet, Ive been saying that Georgia, Nevada are going to be real close races. Incumbent Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) is facing Republican nominee Adam Laxalt in Nevadas Senate race, while incumbent Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) is facing Republican challenger Herschel Walker in Georgias Senate election. Also, during his interview with NBC, Scott was asked to weigh in on recent Republican legislation that would create a federal ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The legislation, unveiled by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) on Sept. 13, includes exceptions for rape, incest, and saving a womans life. In response, Scott said he supports reasonable abortion restrictions, noting that there are arguments to do it at the federal level. Right now, all the candidates are taking positions, Scott said. Im pro-life, as you know. I think we ought to have reasonable restrictions. I think a lot of people are comfortable with 15 weeks and exceptions for rape, incest, and the life of the mother. Asked if Grahams legislation complicated Republican efforts to win the Senate in November, Scott suggested that Democrats have been pushing the issue of abortion rights. Democrats have talked a lot about that this year, so every candidate has been talking about what their position is on abortion, Scott said. So I think its important that people tell people what their position is, and its being done state by state all across the country. I dont know if what Lindsey put out changed the conversation, but it is an important issue for the country. The Sannazzaro refinery of Italian multinational oil and gas company Eni in Sannazzaro de Burgondi, south of Milan, Italy, on Mar. 29, 2019. (Miguel Medina/AFP via Getty Images) Russia Suspends Gas Flow to Italy After Regulatory Changes in Austria Russias state-controlled Gazprom held up gas supplies to Italy last weekend, citing a transportation issue in Austria, according to Eni, Italys largest energy firm. The halt in gas supplies was the result of regulatory changes in Austria that took place at the end of September, Gazprom said in a statement on Telegram, adding that it is working together with Italian buyers to resolve the issue. Gazprom informed that it is not able to confirm the gas volumes requested for today, stating that its not possible to supply gas through Austria, Eni said in a notice on its website on Oct. 1. Therefore, todays Russian gas supplies to Eni through the Tarvisio entry point will be at zero, the energy giant added. Eni will provide updates in case supplies will be restored. As of Oct. 3, Eni hasnt provided an update to its notice to inform customers if gas supplies were restored. Gazprom later confirmed that the gas transit through Austria had been suspended after its grid operator refused to confirm transport nominations, or the amount planned to ship. Most of Russias gas to Italywhich represented about 40 percent of its imports last yearpasses via Ukraine through the Trans Austria Gas Pipeline (TAG) to Tarvisio, a comune in northern Italy bordering Austria. New Rules A spokesman for Eni said that Austria appeared to be receiving gas from Gazprom without any issues. In a series of tweets, Austrias regulatory authority E-Control detailed that new rules, which came into force in late September, had been known to all market actors for months, news agency AFP reported. It added that it expected all to conform and take the necessary measures to fulfill their obligations. The problems were connected to contractual details linked to the transit of gas toward Italy, E-Control noted on Twitter, adding that this currently had no effect on Austrian consumers. The Eni spokesman said the energy firm is currently working together with Gazprom to assess whether its possible to reactivate the flows to Italy. Italy, a country familiar with economic crisis, has stepped up efforts in recent months to secure additional gas from alternative suppliers after the start of Russias attack on Ukraine in February. The southern European nation has been largely dependent on Russian energy for years. Last month, Italy secured additional gas supplies from Algeria, increasing total deliveries by nearly 20 percent. This means Algeria will become Italys top supplier, providing roughly 35 percent of imports. Meanwhile, Russias share has dropped considerably, to about 20 percent as of June, Claudio Descalzi, Enis chief executive officer, said in September. The cut-off of Italian gas comes days after underwater explosions damaged Gazprom-led Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines under the Baltic Sea. President Joe Biden on Friday labeled the incident an intentional act of sabotage, telling Russian President Vladimir Putin that the United States and its allies wont be intimidated by his words or threats. Let me say this: It was a deliberate act of sabotage, and now the Russians are pumping out disinformation and lies, Biden told reporters at the White House, noting that the United States and its allies will investigate the matter and get to the bottom of exactly what happened. Reuters contributed to this report. From NTD News Scottish Authorities Launch Investigation Into Unexplained Newborn Baby Deaths The Scottish Government has ordered a review into two mystery surges in deaths of newborn babies that happened over a six-month period. On Friday, the Scottish Government announced that it had commissioned Healthcare Improvement Scotland to lead a wider inquiry into increased neonatal death rates, which are at their highest in a decade (pdf). According to numbers published by Public Health Scotland (PHS), there were a higher than expected number of deaths in both September 2021 and March 2022, which caused the mortality rate to surpass a set threshold. At least 21 babies died in September 2021, and at least 18 babies under 4 weeks old died in March 2022. According to healthandcare.scot, the rates of neonatal mortality rate in September 2021 and March 2022 were 4.9 and 4.6 per 1,000 live births, respectively. Neonatal mortality refers to deaths in the first four weeks of life. Initial findings in September 2021 from a preliminary investigation discounted a link to COVID-19 infection. In May, Sarah Stock, an expert in maternal and fetal medicine at Edinburgh University who led a study regarding COVID-19 and pregnancies in Scotland, told The Herald that the numbers are really troubling, noting that officials dont know the cause yet. What we do know is that its not neonatal COVID the rates of COVID-19 infection in babies are very low and deaths from COVID are thankfully very, very small, so this isnt COVID affecting babies, Stock said at the time. 2 Very Clear Spikes The review will consider the systems, processes, and governance for the delivery of neonatal care which are relevant to the review scope. It is expected to take no longer than six to nine months once the review team is formed. Diagnostic pathologist Dr. Clare Craig told The Epoch Times that there were two very clear spikes in that data and the timing for those spikes is concerning because that is when COVID-19 vaccinations were promoted. But they need to investigate it. You just cant make that assumption, she cautioned, adding that the total number of neonatal mortality deaths should be easy to investigate. Craig is part of the Health Advisory and Recovery Team, a group of experts who are sceptical about the policy and guidance relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement accompanying the Scottish Governments announcement, Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: Every death is a tragedy for the families involved. That is why earlier this year I committed to this review to find out if there is a reason for the increase. I appreciate how difficult this time is for anyone affected and I would encourage them to access support if they wish to do so, she added. There is information about organisations and help available on the National Bereavement Care Pathways Scotland as well as the Scottish Government website, said Todd. PA Media and Jack Phillips contributed to this report. The China-Japan Joint Statement, inked by the two countries' governments on Sept 29, 1972, put a complete end to the post-war confrontation and isolation between Beijing and Tokyo, ushering in a new historical chapter. As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the normalization of Sino-Japanese diplomatic ties this year, it is a right occasion to honor the strategic vision and political courage of the older generation leaders, and also the firm conviction of the two peoples to pursue peace and development. Over the past half century, China and Japan have established close communication and increased exchanges on many fronts. The number of people traveling between the two sides annually increased to 12 million before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. Bilateral trade reached $371.4 billion in 2021. The two sides have also established more than 260 pairs of sister provinces and cities. Besides, China and Japan have supported each other during difficult times such as the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in China and the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. In the joint fight against COVID-19, many touching stories between our two peoples gave true meaning to the verse that "Though we live in different lands, the same moon and sky make us one". Chinese and Japanese peoples have benefited immensely from the substantial development of bilateral relations despite the differences in ideology and social system. Both sides know well that long-term peace, friendship and cooperation is the right choice for them to overcome challenges. Yet the bilateral ties saw twists and turns over the past 50 years, reminding us that cooperation benefits both while confrontation serves neither. Therefore, China and Japan should develop their relationship taking history as a mirror and looking forward to the future, in a bid to promote mutually beneficial cooperation and peaceful development, as well as pass on friendship to generations. Standing at a historical crossroad today, the Sino-Japanese relationship faces new opportunities as well as daunting challenges. To meet the demands of the new era, the two sides should work together to deepen bilateral relations and overcome common challenges. First, only by learning from history can a better future be created. To do that, the two sides need to abide by the principles set forth in the four political documents the China-Japan Joint Statement of 1972, the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1978, the China-Japan Joint Declaration of 1998, and a joint statement on advancing strategic and mutually beneficial ties in a comprehensive way of 2008. Accordingly, it is important to implement such important common understandings as the two countries are "partners, not threats" to each other. China and Japan should prioritize coordination over competition and properly manage their disputes and differences, and continue to push forward the bilateral relations on the right track. Second, the two sides need to further unlock cooperation potential. The China-Japan commercial relationship serves as both the ballast and the propeller of the overall bilateral relationship. The two sides should enhance their economic cooperation to a higher level and foster new growth areas. For instance, they should introduce economic policies to build a more open and fair business environment, and promote the integration of the industry and supply chains in a bid to reap mutual benefit. Third, the Chinese and Japanese peoples should use the 50th anniversary commemoration to increase cultural and other forms of people-to-people exchanges, especially between the young generations, so as to consolidate the basis of public opinion for friendly neighborhood. And fourth, China and Japan should work together to uphold true multilateralism, deepen regional cooperation and meet global challenges, based on their respective interests and the common good of Asia. Fifty years ago, the leaders of our two countries established the bilateral relations on mutual trust, with commitments that should be duly kept today. On the major issues of principle such as history and the Taiwan region, Japan should honor its commitments without overstepping or crossing the line, so that bilateral ties can be steered away from fluctuation or regression. Especially important, the one-China principle should be fully respected and strictly complied with, as it relates to the political foundation and basic trust of the bilateral relations. Amid the changing international landscape, as long as China and Japan renew their shared aspirations of normalizing diplomatic relations and work in the same direction, we will definitely strengthen peace, friendship and cooperation, setting on track a stable, healthy and ever-evolving relationship for the next 50 years. The author is China's ambassador to Japan. A man waves a Sri Lankan national flag as he stands on a barricade blocking the entrance to president's office during a protest in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on April 11, 2022. Thousands of Sri Lankans protested calling on the country's president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign amid worst economic crisis in history. (Eranga Jayawardena/AP Photo) Sri Lanka Opposes New UNHRC Resolution Aimed at Tarnishing Its Image Sri Lankas government stated that it opposes a new resolution at the U.N. Human Rights Council (UNHRC) that calls for the investigation of corruption by public officials, saying that it violates the countrys constitution. The draft resolution, Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka, was presented to the UNHRCs 51st session last month. It was co-sponsored by the United States, the UK, Germany, Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. A vote for the new resolution is scheduled for Oct. 6. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry said on Sept. 29 that the new resolution is unfair, as it tarnishes the countrys image at a time when it requires international cooperation to tackle its economic crisis. It is against our constitution, and we have to respond to that, Sabry told Economy Next. Whether we will win or lose, there are things on which we cannot compromise. We will ask for a vote through our friends. Particularly what we are concerned about is an outside evidence gathering mechanism and the long-term prosecution of Sri Lankan armed forces outside Sri Lanka. That we cannot agree with. The new resolution raises concern over the human rights impact of Sri Lankas economic crisis, which has exacerbated food insecurity, severe fuel and medical shortages, and reduced household incomes. The resolution notes the continued militarization of civilian government functions, eroding judicial independence, and lack of progress in addressing longstanding grievances and demands of Tamil and Muslim populations. It calls on Sri Lankan authorities to investigate and prosecute corruption committed by public and former public officials, citing the negative impact corruption can have on the enjoyment of human rights. Predatory Loans From China Some U.S. senators tabled a resolution (pdf) in the Senate after the UNHRC resolution, calling for a comprehensive international approach to address Sri Lankas current political and economic crisis. The resolution includes challenges related to poor governance and economic policy under the Rajapaksa familys rule, which anti-government protesters had blamed for the countrys worst economic crisis in decades. U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) urged Sri Lankan authorities to respect the legitimate rights of the people. They claimed that the Rajapaksa government devoted state resources for personal political purposes with little transparency, implemented misguided agricultural policies, and borrowed billions of dollars from China to develop economically unviable mega projects. Sri Lankas economic crisis was exacerbated by predatory loans from [the] Peoples Republic of China as part of its debt-trap diplomacy, the senators said in the resolution. After years of civil war and government mismanagement and abuse, Sri Lanka needs a government that is committed to ethnic tolerance, equitable economic development, human rights, and justice. That should also be the focus of U.S. policy, Leahy said in a statement. Sri Lanka defaulted on its debt in May. The island nation has $10 billion in bilateral debt as of August, of which 44 percent is owed to China, according to the finance ministry (pdf). Ranil Wickremesinghe was appointed as president in July, replacing Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled the country after anti-government protesters stormed his official residence to demand his resignation. Workers make pods for e-cigarettes on the production line at Kanger Tech, one of China's leading manufacturers of vaping products, on Sept. 24, 2019 in Shenzhen, China. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images) Statistics on Chinas Amazing Population Density Six of the 10 most dense cities are in Guangdong Province According to Chinese public data, some 21 cities in China now have a population density of more than 1,000 people per square kilometer (0.386 square miles). Six cities are in Guangdong Province. Among them, Shenzhen is the most crowded city, with over 7,000 people per square kilometer. The 10 cities with the highest population density are Shenzhen, Dongguan, Shanghai, Xiamen, Foshan, Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Shantou, Zhengzhou, and Wuxi, and eight of them have over 2,000 people per square kilometer. Highly populated cities are mostly located around the Yangtze River Delta, Pearl River Delta, and the Beijing and Tianjin areas. Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, holds the top spot with a permanent population of 17.68 million, a land area of 1,997 square kilometers (about 771 square miles), and a population density of 7,173 people per square kilometer. According to Chinas 2020 national census, the population of Shenzhen increased by more than 7.26 million from 2010 to 2020 the most significant gain in the country. Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, ranked second in terms of population density, with a population of 10.53 million, an area of only 2,474 square kilometers (about 955 square miles), and a population density of 4,259 people per square kilometer. Dongguan is a manufacturing powerhouse. Its eight major industries include electronics and information technology, electrical machinery, textiles and clothing, furniture, toys, paper products, food and beverages, and chemicals. Shanghai has the third highest population density at 3,926 people per square kilometer, with a 19.87 million population, according to the last national census. Xiamen City, Fujian Province, ranked fourth in terms of population density, with a permanent population of 5.28 million, an area of only 1,700.61 square kilometers (about 656.7 square miles), and a population density of 3,105 people per square kilometer. Foshan City, Guangdong Province, ranked fifth in population density, with a permanent population of 9.61 million, an area of only 3,797.72 square kilometers (about 1,466 square miles), and a population density of 2,531 people per square kilometer. Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, ranked sixth with a permanent population of 18.81 million, a total area of 7,434.4 square kilometers (about 2,870 square miles), and a population density of 2,530 people per square kilometer. Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province, ranked seventh with a permanent population of 4.46 million, an area of 1,783.67 square kilometers (about 689 square miles), and a population density of 2,504 people per square kilometer. In eighth place is Shantou City, Guangdong Province, with a permanent population of 5.53 million, an area of 2,245 square kilometers (about 867 square miles), and a population density of 2,463 people per square kilometer. Xia Yifan, a Japan-based China expert, told The Epoch Times that population density is closely related to economic development. He said Guangdong Province has close ties with the rest of the world. Meanwhile, the Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong, and Macau constitute the economic hub of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The Pearl River Delta, once dubbed the worlds factory, is the countrys biggest economic hub. It covers only 1 percent of Chinas territory but makes up about 4.3 percent of its entire population. Guangdong Province is adjacent to Hong Kong and Macau. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) refers to a megaregion consisting of two special administrative regionsHong Kong and Macauand nine cities in Guangdong Province. The GBA is the countrys largest and most populated urban area and the wealthiest economic region in South China. Its size is comparable to the bay areas of New York City, Tokyo, and San Francisco. Supreme Court Declines to Hear Challenge to Pennsylvania Electoral Map The Supreme Court on Oct. 3 declined to hear a former Republican congressmans challenge to a map of Pennsylvanias U.S. House districts adopted by the commonwealths Democratic-majority high court. Pennsylvanias Supreme Court in February approved the use of a U.S. House district map that was more favorable to Democrats than the maps that were drawn up by the Republican-controlled state Legislature. In March, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed the Pennsylvania Supreme Court map to remain in effect for the 2022 elections. Pennsylvania has 17 House districtsa loss of one after the state lost population in the 2020 national census. An appeal of the state Supreme Courts February ruling was brought by former Rep. Ryan Costello (R-Pa.), who argued that the U.S. Constitution limits the ability of state courts to interfere with maps or rules adopted by state legislatures for federal elections. Costello, who served in the House from 2015 to 2019, asked that the Supreme Court take up the case alongside a similar one out of North Carolina it agreed in June to hear to rein in the state judiciaries unconstitutional meddling in congressional redistricting decisions. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, vetoed the map created by the Republican-controlled Legislature and claimed it was the result of a partisan political process. The North Carolina case, like the Pennsylvania one, involves a map drawn by a GOP-led legislature that a state high court rejected in favor of a different, judicially endorsed redistricting plan. We Will Have to Resolve This Question Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh wrote in March that the high court should decide whether state courts improperly took powers away from state lawmakers. But the court ultimately denied the Republican-led redistricting pleas in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. We will have to resolve this question sooner or later, and the sooner we do so, the better. This case presented a good opportunity to consider the issue, but unfortunately the court has again found the occasion inopportune, Alito wrote in a dissent (pdf). That decision to rewrite the rules seems to have affected too few ballots to change the outcome of any federal election, Thomas also wrote. But that may not be the case in the future. Costello argued that under a separate federal law, Pennsylvania should be now required to hold at-large elections until the states congressional districts are redrawn in a manner he views as legal. In January of 2022, the Republican-led General Assembly approved a reasonable, non-gerrymandered map that would have created a 9-8 majority of Democratic-leaning congressional districts, his lawyers wrote earlier this year. That map, the former lawmaker said, is more favorable to Democrats than the most likely outcome of 50,000 computer-drawn simulated maps that used no partisan data, which resulted in 8 Democratic-leaning seats and 9 Republican-leaning seats. But lawyers for Wolf and the states secretary of state in a brief had urged the justices to reject Costellos petition, saying he failed to raise his arguments at the state court level and lacked legal standing to pursue the case. The dispute is one of numerous legal battles in the United States over the composition of electoral districts, which are redrawn each decade to reflect population changes measured in a national census. In most states, such redistricting is done by the party in power, which can lead to map manipulation for partisan gain. Following the 2020 presidential election, the Supreme Court also refused to issue an emergency stay on Pennsylvanias election results after former President Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers challenged the extension of the deadline for mail-in ballots. At the same time, Trump and members of his team alleged that fraud plagued the statewide election. Also on Oct. 3, the Supreme Court rejected (pdf) several other cares, including a petition to reverse the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) ban on bump stock devices for semi-automatic rifles that went into effect in 2019. Reuters contributed to this report. Massachusetts Attorney General, and candidate for governor, Maura Healey speaks during the state's Democratic party convention June 4, 2022, in Worcester, Mass. (Michael Dwyer/AP Photo) Supreme Court Overturns Ruling on Massachusetts Gun Law, Leaving Constitutionality in Question The Supreme Court reversed a federal appeals court decision on Oct. 3 that upheld one of Massachusetts tough gun laws, months after the high court expanded Second Amendment rights. The Massachusetts law in question, the constitutionality of which is now in doubt, imposed a lifetime ban on purchasing handgunsbut not possessing themon anyone convicted of a nonviolent misdemeanor that involved the possession or use of guns. The high court remanded the case, Morin v. Lyver (court file 21-1160), to the U.S Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit for further consideration in light of the Supreme Courts landmark June 23 decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen. Massachusetts was previously added to Morin v. Lyver as an intervenor to defend the constitutionality of the state law. The order was unsigned and no justices indicated they were dissenting from it. The justices didnt explain why they granted the order. In Bruen, a 63 ruling, the high court recognized a constitutional right to bear firearms in public for self-defense and struck down New Yorks law that required an applicant to demonstrate proper cause to obtain a license to carry a concealed handgun in public. The court also found that gun restrictions must be deeply rooted in American history if they are to survive constitutional scrutiny. Massachusetts requires individuals to obtain licenses in order to possess or purchase handguns, and it disqualifies people with certain criminal convictions from obtaining licenses. State law also provides that an individual convicted of a nonviolent misdemeanor that concerned the possession or use of a gun can obtain a license that allows him to possess a handgun at home, but only after five years have passed. The same person can never obtain authorization to purchase a handgunmeaning that the only way he can obtain one is if someone leaves it to him at death, according to court documents. Petitioner Alfred Morins legal troubles began in October 2004 when he traveled from his home state of Massachusetts to Washington with a handgun. At the time, he possessed a valid Massachusetts License to Carry Firearms but was unaware that District of Columbia laws prohibited him from carrying his gun, despite having the Massachusetts license. At the American Museum of Modern History, he saw a sign prohibiting firearms and approached a guard to inquire about checking his gun. Police arrested Morin and charged him with carrying a pistol without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. On Nov. 8, 2004, Morin pleaded guilty to attempting to carry a pistol without a license and possession of an unregistered firearm, both misdemeanors. The Superior Court of the District of Columbia sentenced Morin to 60 days imprisonment on each count, three months of supervised probation, and 20 hours of community service. The court suspended the imprisonment portion of the sentence. Morin later applied to police in his home state for a Firearms Identification Card and a permit to buy a firearm in February 2018. Respondent William Lyver, chief of the Northborough, Massachusetts, police department, denied Morins application for a permit to purchase on April 4, 2018. The Supreme Court summarily disposed of the pending case, simultaneously granting the petitioners request seeking review while skipping over the oral argument phase at which the merits of the case would have been considered. Some lawyers call this process GVR, which stands for grant, vacate, and remand. The order came after the Supreme Court issued a series of rulings on June 30 reversing federal appeals court decisions that upheld gun restrictions in California, Hawaii, Maryland, and New Jersey, as The Epoch Times reported. The Epoch Times reached out for comment to Morins attorney, David Jensen, of Beacon, New York, but didnt receive a reply as of press time. Chloe Gotsis from the office of Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey told The Epoch Times by email, We are declining to comment on the record as this is ongoing litigation. Healey, a Democrat, is running for governor in her state. The U.S. Supreme Court Building in Washington on Oct. 3, 2022. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to Biden Administrations COVID Vaccine Mandate for Health Care Workers The Supreme Court on Oct. 3 rejected a challenge from 10 states to the federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers. Justices turned down a petition to hear the case, which says the mandate imposed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in 2021 is illegal. Justices didnt offer an explanation for their decision. The Missouri Attorney Generals Office, which led the case, didnt respond to a request for comment. HHS and CMS also didnt respond to inquiries. Missouri and other states in May asked the court to review the case, several months after the nations top court reversed a lower courts block on the mandate. In a 54 ruling, a majority of justices said that the mandate falls within the authorities that Congress gave federal health officials. They also erroneously stated that health care workers getting COVID-19 vaccines would substantially reduce the likelihood that health care workers will contract the virus and transmit it to their patients. Health officials have acknowledged that the vaccines perform poorly against infection and dont lower transmission. In a dissent, Justice Clarence Thomas said that CMS wasnt granted the broad authority to force health care workers to get a vaccine. The ruling was against a preliminary injunction, leaving open the possibility that the court might ultimately rule for the states. In their petition, for a hearing, the states said there is no evidence that unvaccinated workers pose a greater risk to patients and said the mandate has exacerbated staffing shortages. They also reiterated the belief that the law doesnt let CMS impose the mandate, which covers every institution that receives money from Medicare or Medicaid. Government lawyers said in reply that the law lets the health secretary implement measures to ensure that the healthcare providers who care for Medicare and Medicaid patients protect their patients health and safety and that the mandate does so because the unvaccinated purportedly pose a serious threat to patients. They appeared to only cite data from 2021, when the Delta virus variant was still dominant. In a reply on Sept. 8, the states said the mandate provides no discernible benefit to patients and relied on stale evidence, noting that the Omicron variant has made very clear the vaccines limited effectiveness in preventing infection and transmission of the virus. They cited Dr. Anthony Fauci, the chief White House medical adviser, who said over the summer that the vaccines dont protect overly well against infection. A bump stock is installed on an AK-47 and its movement is demonstrated at Good Guys Gun and Range in Orem, Utah, on Feb. 21, 2018. (George Frey/Getty Images) Supreme Court Wont Hear Challenge to Gun Bump Stock Ban The U.S. Supreme Court on Oct. 3 rejected two challenges to the federal governments ban on gun bump stocks that were imposed following the Las Vegas mass shooting in 2017. Bump stocks are devices that allow semi-automatic weapons to increase their rate of fire. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) reversed a previous conclusion and classified bump stocks as forbidden under a 1934 U.S. law called the National Firearms Act. Gun rights groups, including Gun Owners of America, and a Utah-based gun rights advocate brought several cases to the nine Supreme Court justices to reverse the ban. They made no comments in declining to hear them (pdf), which were among several cases that the court declined to hear on the first day of the high courts new term. Clark Aposhian, the Utah gun-rights advocate, sued to halt the ban in 2019, challenging the ATFs authority in reclassifying bump stocks as forbidden machine guns. After a federal judge refused to grant him an injunction early in the case, Aposhian surrendered his device, pending the outcome of the litigation. Separately, gun owner advocacy groups including Gun Owners of America and three of its individual members sued in federal court in Michigan to block the bump stock ban from taking effect. The Cincinnati-based 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2021 upheld the ban. After the Supreme Courts Oct. 3 ruling, Gun Owners of America issued a statement saying the ban sets a dangerous precedent that will give the federal government broader powers to regulate firearms. This decision sets a horrible and dangerous precedent, one that will allow the ATF to further arbitrarily regulate various firearms, the group wrote on Twitter. This very same precedent is already being abused by Joe Biden to ban millions of lawfully purchased pistols even without an ACT of Congress! Earlier this year, lawyers for the Biden administration urged the Supreme Court to stay out of the dispute over the ATF rule. The ATF had determined that bump stocks are machine guns under the statue, not that the agency had discretionary authority under the statute to classify them as machine guns, Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar argued in a court filing. ATFs interpretation reflects the best understanding of the statutory language, she wrote. Ban A bump stock uses the recoil action of a semi-automatic rifle to simulate fully automatic firing. In 2017, the ATF rule banning bump stocks stipulated that [bump stocks] are machineguns as defined by the National Firearms Act of 1934 and the Gun Control Act of 1968 as these devices allow a shooter of a semiautomatic firearm to initiate a continuous firing cycle with a single pull of the trigger. When the rule was proposed about five years ago, the agency estimated that Americans possessed about 520,000 bump stocks. The ban required them to either be relinquished or destroyed. This undated photo provided by Eric Paddock shows his brother, Las Vegas gunman Stephen Paddock. (Courtesy of Eric Paddock via AP) The ban on bump stocks took effect in 2019 as a result of the October 2017 mass shooting that left 58 dead in Las Vegas. Stephen Paddock, a high-stakes gambler, allegedly used riflessome of which law enforcement officials say had bump stocksto fire at a crowd of country music concertgoers. No motive for the mass shooting has ever been established. Investigators with the FBI later said that Paddock, who had virtually no online presence and is believed to have killed himself after the rampage, may have been inspired by his criminal fathers reputation. Other Cases In June, the Supreme Court court declared for the first time that the U.S. Constitution protects an individuals right to carry a handgun in public for self-defense. The decision handed a victory to gun rights advocates in a nation deeply divided over how to address firearm violence. Previously, the Supreme Court declined to take up a separate legal effort by other gun rights groups in 2020 to overturn the ATF ban on bump stocks. In a court brief (pdf) filed on Aug. 1 with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, the Firearms Policy Coalition wrote that the ATFs redefinition of a bump stock defies any recognizable public meaning of the language of the statute and leads to absurd results. The group further argued that the ATFs classification of a bump-fired rifle as a machine gun suggests that nearly every semiautomatic firearm in existence could fall into the new category. The cases that the Supreme Court rejected on Oct. 3 are W. Clark Aposhian v. Merrick B. Garland, 21-159, and Gun Owners of America v. Merrick B. Garland, 21-1215. Reuters contributed to this report. Texas Law Enforcement Officers Thwart Human Smuggling, Arrest Convicted Criminals Near Border Texas law enforcement officers working through Operation Lone Star continue to thwart criminal activity at the Texas-Mexico border, including interdicting human smugglers and kidnappers. Since Gov. Greg Abbott launched Texas border security initiative last March, state law enforcement officers have apprehended more than 308,700 illegal foreign nationals, made more than 20,200 criminal arrests, including more than 17,900 on felony charges. Most recently, DPS state troopers arrested a Mexican national in Mission, Texas, after he attempted to take a Texas National Guard soldiers weapon. After arresting the 45-year-old Mexican national, Ricardo Jaime-Ruiz, DPS learned he is a previously deported felon. Ruiz allegedly committed the crime while a National Guard soldier was assisting Border Patrol agents apprehend a large group of people whod illegally entered the U.S. near Bentsen Palm Community Park in Mission, Texas. Ruiz fled, attempting to evade capture. The soldier issued verbal commands to stop but instead, Ruiz grabbed the soldiers M-4 rifle with both hands. He tried to take the gun away but was stopped by other soldiers. On Sept. 24 in Weslaco at the Mid Valley Airport, DPS Special Agents noticed several vehicles arrive and drop off seven people who boarded a Raytheron plane. The officers apprehended them and discovered that one was a U.S. citizen who coordinated the smuggling operation; six were foreign nationals illegally being brought to Houston. Among them were four men and two women who were citizens of El Salvador and Mexico who had fraudulent Texas identification cards. One of the men was a previously deported felon wanted in Wisconsin for sexual assault of a child. DPS Lt. Chris Olivarez told Fox News, Were starting to see an increase in planes that are being used to smuggle illegal immigrants further into the State of Texas, and then from there they make it further into the interior. There is no way of knowing who these individuals are unless you actually catch them in the act and apprehend and vet them. Thats how we were able to identify that one individual with a warrant for sexual assault. In Hidalgo County near La Joya, Texas National Guard soldiers assisted Border Patrol agents with apprehending five criminals who attempted to evade capture after illegally crossing the Rio Grande River. According to soldiers patrolling the area, theres been a notable rise in the number of illegal crossings and subsequent apprehensions over the past week. Soldiers are also noticing increased numbers of criminals fleeing apprehension. We have had a total of 109 people we have detained, and over half have been criminal apprehensions, Staff Sgt. Juan Aldana, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 141st Infantry, said, according to a release from the governors office. He described a typical night on shift, saying, We got a call from a Border Patrol agent who was trying to apprehend a combative criminal. We rushed over there and surrounded him and were able to safely detain him. Farther west in Webb County in Laredo, DPS agents discovered 50 illegal foreign nationals hiding in an 18-wheeler, including 37 men, 11 women, and two juveniles. A U.S. citizen and Mexican national were arrested for smuggling of people, the rest were referred to Border Patrol. DPS special agents also recently found 43 people in a stash house in Webb County, including 24 men, 17 women, and two juveniles. All were citizens of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras whod illegally entered the U.S. and were referred to Border Patrol. DPS says its observing a trend of rental homes being used as stash houses to hide smuggled people, drugs, and weapons. DPS is advising landlords to look for red flags like tenants paying in cash and offering multiple payments in advance. For the most part, what we found in these specific cases is the landlords are not directly involved, DPS Sgt. Erick Estrada told KGNS News Laredo. Its directly with the tenant, with whoever is renting the property. People should be aware of who they are renting their property out to. Farther west in Kinney County, DPS troopers interdicted another smuggling event after they discovered 10 people, including a child, hidden inside a Penske van. The driver was charged with human smuggling and all 10 illegal foreign nationals were referred to Border Patrol. In neighboring Del Rio, DPS troopers found 11 illegal foreign nationals concealed inside a box truck during a traffic stop. In another traffic stop, officers pulled over a driver from California who was attempting to smuggle 10 people into the U.S. The drivers were charged with smuggling of persons; everyone else was referred to Border Patrol. Farther west in El Paso, DPS troopers discovered a kidnapped 18-month-old baby during a traffic stop. The baby was in poor health and taken to the hospital for treatment before being released to Child Protective Services. Both the driver and teenage passenger face charges of smuggling of persons and aggravated kidnapping. Operation Lone Star continues to fill the dangerous gaps left by the Biden Administrations refusal to secure the border, Abbott argues. In a recent Washington Times oped, he wrote, Whether President Biden views the border crisis as Texas problem or it is just politically inconvenient for him to do his job, mass illegal immigration is a humanitarian crisis for those putting their lives in the hands of ruthless coyotes or smugglers and a national security crisis for all Americans. The crisis at the border is not for Texas or any other border state to handle alone. It is up to our nations leaders to stand up for the rule of law that makes America so exceptional. By Bethany Blankley When Geoff Ugent was discharged from the U.S. Navy, he had to wait 27 years to talk about anything he did for the branch of the military. His former job title, ocean systems technician (OT), sounds more like he worked in oceanography or marine engineering than in one of the most select groups in naval intelligence. We were very rare, Ugent said. Most people in the military didnt know what we were. In 1974, fresh out of high school, Ugent was considering joining the military. He met with all branches in the recruiter station. The Navy, stationed at the end of the hall, was the last to interview him. Ugent told the recruiter that he would consider joining if he could receive a guarantee that he would never be placed on a ship. It was a rather oxymoronic request, being that scouring the oceans is what the Navy does, and in order to do that, they have to use ships. As much as it sounded like a poor joke, Ugent was in earnest. The reason he didnt want to be on a ship was because several of his friends who had joined the Navy had told him that they were constantly on maintenance duty, keeping the ship clean. The recruiter took Ugent at his word and said that of the approximately 70 jobs available in the Navy, he could offer him one that would help to ensure he wouldnt be placed on a ship. He said that if Ugent could pass the intelligence test, then he could be considered for the position. So what was the position? He told me, I dont know much about it because its highly classified. He didnt have much to share with me about the position, Ugent said with a laugh. Imagine trying to sell that job. I cant tell you much about the job. You want it? After passing the intelligence test and undergoing a thorough background check that cost the Navy $10,000 (approximately $55,000 today), he was off to boot camp, where he spent a brutal winter on the Great Lakes before being stationed at a secret submarine base in Key West, Florida, for his technical training, also known as A School. Listening to the Enemy Once Ugent received his secret level clearance, secret bases became something of the norm. Those bases, of which he would experience several, were always protected by no fewer than a dozen Navy SEALs. He noted how rare and elite the OTs and SEALs were. Only 1 percent of the active-duty Navy are allowed to be Navy SEALs at any one time, which is about 2,500 people in the world. There were 2,500 of those, but there were fewer than 1,000 of us, he said, referring to the OT position. While the Cold War raged on, as it would for nearly two more decades, the United States remained in a death struggle with the Soviet Union. Ugent and the rest of the OTs were assigned the task of tracking and identifying Soviet seacraft. They were on constant alert, listening to whatever was lurking in the worlds oceans, from submarines and battleships to cruisers and shrimp boats. We used hydrophone arrays, Ugent said. We had them fanned out on the continental shelf. Each base had two arrays. A couple of bases had a third one. Sound coming from a particular direction will hit this hydrophone before this one so you can triangulate sonically what direction thats coming from. When you have 80 hydrophones listening, you can be pretty precise on where something is coming from. But where is not enough information. Its important, but what is it? We had the intel to be able to identify any type of shipsurface or subsurfacebased on the noises it made. (Courtesy of Sons of History) The Sound of Technology The technology for the hydrophone arrays originated from a theory by ocean scientists Maurice Ewing and J. Lamar Worzel in 1944. They believed that low-frequency sounds from hundreds of miles away could be heard in the oceans deep. Their theory proved true. Toward the end of World War II, this proven theory was put to use in order to locate the position of downed sailors. The sailors would drop a small explosive device from their life raft and the sound of the explosion would be heard from listening stations and then triangulated in order to find the location of the life raft. Over the years, the Navy used this scientific discovery to create more advanced technology called the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) in order to locate the position of Soviet diesel and nuclear submarines. Ugent said the OTs were listening for very low-frequency sounds, around 500 hertz or lower. He said the ship would make various noises based on its machinery, and the sound frequencies would emanate from the ships hull. If we could identify three or four of those sounds, we had the intel to know what kind of ship it was, he said. All ships make sounds, but they dont all make the same sounds. The Chain of Command Ugent was once stationed at a secret base on San Nicolas Island off the coast of Southern California, where the closest Soviet port was approximately 9,000 miles away. He said that as soon as a Soviet ship or submarine came out of portminus the lag time of that sound traveling that distancehe and his team could pick it up and identify it. Once their intelligence was gathered, it was a short chain of command to the president. The quick relay of information was pivotal because, as Ugent stated, there was the constant threat of nuclear attack. We reported to our direct officers on the base, then that report went to a hubeither on the West Coast or the East Coast, he said. The hub reported directly to the secretary of the Navy, and then the secretary of defense would get involved, and then they would report to the president and the vice president. Based on our information, they made decisions about what the rest of the Navy and about half the Air Force was going to do at any given moment. (Courtesy of Sons of History) Keeping Top Secrets Secret Just as U.S. leaders had tried to keep the countrys nuclear secrets away from prying Soviet eyes during the Manhattan Project, they tried to do the same with the SOSUS technology. In both instances, the Soviets succeeded in placing spies within the American ranks. Toward the end of 1967, John Walker, a Navy chief warrant officer and submarine communications specialist, walked into the Soviet Embassy in Washington and agreed to become a spy. Eighteen years later, he would be credited with arguably the worst security breach of the Cold War. According to then-Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger, Walkers spy ring provided the Soviets with access to weapons and sensor data and naval tactics, terrorist threats, and surface, submarine, and airborne training, readiness, and tactics. Perhaps from Walkers information or by other means of espionage, Ugent found himself at the center of a Soviet attempt to gather classified Navy technology. I can personally attest that that was an interesting day, he said with a laugh. When he was stationed at San Nicolas Island, he and his team tracked a surface vessel that had come out of a Soviet port in the northwest Pacific. They followed it as it went around the Aleutian Islands chain, down the coast of Alaska, Canada, and Washington state, and stopped near Santa Barbara, California, where it attempted to port. After the Santa Barbara Port Authority denied the Soviet ship access, the ship made its way farther south to San Nicolas Island. The island has a 27-mile perimeter. The secret naval base takes up a very small portion of that coast. Oddly enough, the Soviet vessel stopped two miles away from the coast, directly in front of the base. Ugent noted that not only was it a violation to stop in front of the base, but the island also restricted ships from being closer than three miles. We were issued M16s and were lined up 10 feet apart down the beach, he recalled. A half dozen SEALs took off in a boat and met up with the Soviet landing craft about a mile out that was trying to come to shore. At the same time, two Navy F-16s came flying overhead. The Soviets in the small boat stated that their ship was a research vessel. I suppose they were a research vessel and they probably had a bunch of Soviet Marines onboard, he said, laughing. What were they coming for? They were coming to raid us and steal our intel. They were coming to kill us, because we werent about to give that up. When the Navy SEALs told the Soviets that the F-16s would soon sink their ship if they didnt leave, the group turned their small boat around, boarded their ship, and left. Ugent said the ship definitely left. He and his team tracked it all the way back to Hawaii. What was interesting about that ship was what it was. It was actually a Soviet destroyer without the big guns, he said. They took the big guns off of it and painted everything that wasnt glass white. It had no flags. No identifying markers. Nothing. Since it was our job to know what it was, we knew what it was. We knew what it was when it came out of port. It wasnt even out of the ocean chain before the president knew about it because of what we did. A More Dangerous Time Ugent has been out of the Navy since 1980 and hasnt had to track ships since then. But he has been tracking the nuances of the Cold War, which he believes never ended. He said the war is now covert, rather than overt. And just like the decades of the overt Cold War, the threat of thermonuclear exchange is still a very clear and present danger. China is the new big threat in the room because they have even grander thoughts about taking over stuff than the Soviets did, he said. The Soviets wanted the Eastern bloc and all that. China wants everything. They arent like our country, where we think in blocks of two years or four years. Theyre thinking a hundred years in advance. Thats a different threat than the Soviets. The dicey thing is the countries that wont act properly, like Iran and North Korea. Theyre the loose cannons, so to speak. The world is much more dangerous now than in the 70s when I served. Former U.S. President Donald Trump arrives at Trump Tower the day after FBI agents raided his Mar-a-Lago Palm Beach home, in New York on Aug. 9, 2022. (David 'Dee' Delgado/Reuters) Trump Fires Back Against DOJ Appeal in Mar-a-Lago Raid Case Former President Donald Trumps lawyers moved to oppose the Department of Justices recent bid to speed up its court appeal of the appointment of a special master to review the slew of documents the FBI took in August when it raided Trumps Mar-a-Lago home. President Trump also opposes the Governments request to expedite oral argument in this case, Trump attorneys Christopher Kise and Jim Trusty wrote in an Oct. 3 filing (pdf), adding that they want oral arguments set for January 2023 or later. Trump disagrees with and objects to the Governments distorted and argumentative presentation of facts concerning the unprecedented raid of his home, its conduct in these proceedings, and the procedural history of this case. Finally, the extraordinary circumstances herein presentedan investigation of the 45th President by the administration of his political rivalwould countenance against any rush to judgment. Indeed, the public interest is served best by transparent and thorough consideration of all the issues. The Government has not and cannot possibly articulate any real risk of loss or harm resulting from a more deliberative process. Previous Filings Several days before, the Justice Department (DOJ) requested an expedited order in its appeal of the decision to name a special master. District Judge Aileen Cannon appointed Judge Raymond Dearie to be the special master of the records that were taken from Trumps Florida home. An aerial view of former U.S. President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago home after FBI agents raided it, in Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 15, 2022. (Marco Bello/Reuters) Lawyers for the DOJ on Sept. 30 wrote to the Atlanta-based 11th Circuit Court of Appeals that the government is blocked from accessing more than 11,000 documents that werent marked classified during the August FBI raid. Because the DOJ cant access those records, its investigation is now hampered, the attorneys further said. The non-classified records may shed light on, for example, how the materials bearing classification markings were transferred to [Trumps] residence, how they were stored, and who may have accessed them, the DOJ wrote, adding that the non-classified records may constitute evidence of potential violations of federal statutes on obstruction and concealment or removal of government records. Last month, the appeals court sided with the DOJ in lifting portions of Cannons ruling that had blocked the department from relying on classified materials taken during the raid as part of its Trump investigation. The 11th Circuit also blocked Dearie from accessing classified materials as part of his review. Trump, on social media, has maintained that he declassified a range of materials while he was president. Among other items, the FBI also took medical records, passports, and tax documents, the former president has contended. Mimi Nguyen-Ly contributed to this report. Secretary of State for Defence Ben Wallace leaves 10 Downing Street in London, on Feb. 13, 2020. (Leon Neal/Getty Images) UK Defence Secretary Promises 2 Ships to Protect Underwater Cables Defence Secretary Ben Wallace says the British government plans to commit two specialist ships to the task of protecting vital underwater cables which could be attacked by Russia or other hostile foreign powers. Wallace told the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham the mysterious damage suffered by the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic on Sept. 26 was a reminder of how fragile the British economy was to such an attack on its underwater infrastructure. Russian President Vladimir Putins spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said claims the leaks on the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines were because of Russian sabotage was predictably stupid but he said, This looks like some kind of terrorist act, possibly at the state level. Russia shut down Nord Stream 1 last month, citing a need for maintenance, and Nord Stream 2 was halted by Germany in February, days before Russia invaded Ukraine. Wallace said Russia had made no secret of its capacity to damage and disrupt underwater infrastructure. Britain Highly Reliant on Pipelines and Cables Wallace said, our internet and energy are highly reliant on pipelines and cables and he said: Our intent is to protect them I can announce we recently committed to two specialist ships with the capability to keep our cables and pipelines safe. He said by the end of 2022 the Royal Navy would purchase a multi-role survey ship for seabed warfare which would be kitted out and fully operational by the end of 2023. The second ship would be built from scratch at a British shipyard but might not be operational for several years. In January the head of Britains armed forces, Adm. Sir Tony Radakin, said Russian submarines posed a major threat to underwater cables which transmit internet data globally. Radakin, a former head of the Royal Navy, told The Times of London there had been a phenomenal increase in Russian submarine and underwater activity in the past 20 years. In December 2021 a Royal Navy frigate, HMS Northumberland, lost part of its sonar after colliding with a Russian submarine, which it was tracking, in the Arctic Circle. During his conference speech, Wallace backed Prime Minister Liz Trusss pledge to invest 3 percent of Britains GDP in defence by 2030 and he challenged Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer to match that promise. You know, Mr. Starmer, investing in defence and supporting our troops requires a lot more than waving the Union Jack. You have to actually fund them. You have to actually recognise that as threat changes so must the investment, the defence secretary told his audience. PA Media contributed to this report. How stupid do you have to be to believe this? I don't know. But in my brief tenure as a Californian, I've seen voters believe that giving politicians billions of dollars would solve homelessness, vote for most tax hikes and the most insane leftist politicians. Tax hikes to lower gas prices? Bring them on. California Gov. Gavin Newsom is lashing out at oil companies who he says are fleecing Californians with gasoline prices that are rising disproportionately in the Golden State. The fact is, they're ripping you off. Their record profits are coming at your expense, Newsom said in a scathing video posted to Twitter Friday in which the governor called for a new windfall tax on oil companies. They are ripping you off. And by they, I mean Newsom and the Democrat supermajority. Let's look at the cost of gas at the California pump again. A report from Stillwater Associates last year found that California consumers were paying an extra $1.19 a gallon. This year the added costs include a 51 cent state excise tax, an 18 cent sales tax, 20 cents for Fuels Under the Cap, part of the state's corrupt environmental cap and trade program and 17 cents for the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Californians are paying a $1.41 federal and state tax markup on $3 bucks of crude. Or almost half. Biden and other Democrats have blamed corporate profits, but the gas stations and suppliers are making a mere 33 cents a gallon or less than a third of the states added $1.08 in various taxes. Even the refiners are only making 72 cents. The biggest piece of the pie is coming from the taxes, many of them hidden, imposed by Democrats in the name of saving the planet. While Newsom and Big Green describe some of these taxes as allowances and credits as part of a marketplace, they are really a corrupt scheme to force consumers to pay money to special interests and politically connected companies under the guise of saving the planet. Democrats sold the fuel taxes as penalties on polluters. They claimed that imposing them would make the polluters pay. Few Californians seemed to understand that by polluters, the Sacramento political establishment meant the single mother picking up her son from school, the supermarket cashier commuting to work, and everyone else who cant afford a Tesla. The California average gas price is now over $6 a gallon, compared to $4.60 for the rest of the country, because Democrats are making ordinary drivers, whom they call polluters, pay. Are Californians going to be stupid enough to fall for this again? Newsom said the windfall tax would ensure these profits go directly back to help millions of Californians who are paying for this oil company extortion. What Newsom really means is that instead of a gas tax holiday, the Sacramento mob decided to send rebate checks to car owners. The rebates will be financed with more taxes which will raise the price of gas. And Newsom will respond by railing some more at the companies and then raising taxes to finance a new round of rebate checks. Most of the money from the taxes will actually be diverted to assorted special interests, while consumers will get a $400 gift card. Thatll be enough to pay for how much gas. Newsom is betting that this class warfare from a wine country millionaire will be eaten up by the suckers. And whos to say it wont? The degree of diversions from the national prices has never happened before, and oil companies provide no explanation, Newsom said. Were not going to stand by while greedy oil companies fleece Californians. The explanation is the high level of taxes and regulations imposed by Newsom and his Democrat supermajority on Californians. And Newsom and the Democrats wont stand by while greedy oil companies will fleece Californians. Thats their job. A young illegal immigrant waits for his turn to take a shower at the Donna Department of Homeland Security holding facility, the main detention center for unaccompanied children in the Rio Grande Valley in Donna, Texas, on March 30, 2021. (Dario Lopez-Mills/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Unaccompanied Children Suffer Mental Distress at Fort Bliss Facility: Watchdog Unaccompanied children who crossed the U.S. border alone and were temporarily sheltered in a Texas military base last year suffered from distress, anxiety, and panic attacks without receiving quality services that prioritize their safety and well-being, shows a September watchdog report. In the 58-page report (pdf) issued last week by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) inspector generals office, investigators found that some illegal immigrant youth at the emergency shelter inside Fort Bliss had to wait weeks before hearing updates from case managers due to large caseloads, COVID-19 related manpower shortages, and lack of staff training. This lack of communication contributed to what another interviewee called a pervasive sense of despair among children at the facility, who reportedly experienced distress, anxiety, and in some cases, panic attacks, the report said. The emergency site on Fort Bliss was firstly open in March 2021 to meet basic standards of child care for unaccompanied children on a short-term basis, as the country saw an enormous spike in illegal immigrants since President Joe Biden took office. The number of minors who arrived at the southern border without a parent or legal guardian and were referred to the care of HHS, rose steeply from less than 2,000 in October 2020 to over 20,000 in April 2021. Near the end of May, 700 children at the military base had not been seen by a case manager for approximately 60 days, according to a case management team member. Similarly, a youth care worker recalled compiling a list of nearly 100 children who had been at the facility for more than 30 days without frequent communication with case management staff, while many had not been contacted after their initial intake interview. The investigation included document analyses, a site visit last June, and interviews with 66 Fort Bliss staff from June 11 to Dec. 17, 2021. Interviewees shared childrens fears of being forgotten by case management staff, which led to uncertainty about when they would be released from the facility and reunited with their family or other sponsors, the Office of Inspector General found. Another staff told investigators that a young girl begin to hit and cut herself in front of a group of children after learning that her mother had not yet been contacted by a case manager as part of the sponsor screening process. Young minors lie inside a pod at the Donna Department of Homeland Security holding facility, the main detention center for unaccompanied children in the Rio Grande Valley run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Donna, Texas, on March 30, 2021. (Dario Lopez-Mills/Pool/AP Photo) An HHS official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters that conditions at Fort Bliss now are night and day compared to then. There are currently 589 children at the base, the official said, and children stay, on average, for 13 days before being released to parents or other sponsors. HHS had resorted to opening a total of 14 temporary emergency intake sites last year, including military bases like Fort Bliss, in a bid to house them before being placed with sponsors across the country. Children sent to such unlicensed, short-term facilities, however, described crowded living conditions, spoiled food, lack of clean clothes, and mental depression, according to child testimonials filed in court in June 2021. HHS closed 12 of the 14 sites by January 2022, and converted the remaining two facilities, including the one at Fort Bliss and the other at Pecos, to influx care facilities in May and June 2022, respectively, meaning the two must meet minimum standards of care for licensed facilities now. Retaliation The report also flagged that last year, government workers feared potential retaliation for raising concerns about youth treatments on the military basean allegation denied by the unnamed HHS official, who said the agency would not retaliate against someone for raising a child welfare concern. Two U.S. government employees, according to the report, said they experienced retaliation after they sounded alarms about the conditions at Fort Bliss. The alleged acts of retaliation, which included demotion and removal from assignments, may have caused a broader whistleblower chilling, the inspector generals office said, effectively scaring staff into withholding any complaints or reports of wrongdoing. A staffer was allegedly demoted and transferred after raising concerns about the treatment of children at the base and the removal of certain safety checks in the program to release children to sponsors. The Epoch Times has reached out to the HHS for comments. Reuters contributed to this report. Unofficial Chinese Police Stations in Canada Likely Number More Than 3, Says Report Co-Author The Chinese regime has likely established more unofficial overseas police stations in Canada than the three in Toronto identified in a report by a human rights NGO, a co-author of the report says. Spain-based Safeguard Defenders published a report in September warning of the regimes long-arm policing around the world through whats been dubbed the 110 overseas police stationsan operation named after the police emergency phone number, 110, in China. Titled 110 Overseas: Chinese Transnational Policing Gone Wild, the report identified 54 Chinese overseas police stations in 30 countries, including 3 in Toronto. The stations are all under the jurisdiction of two local-level police services in Chinathe Fuzhou Public Security Bureau in Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, and the Qingtian County police in Zhejiang Province, the report said. Peter Dahlin, founder and director of Safeguard Defenders and co-author of the report, says that following the release of his organizations findings, security police or related government agencies from North America and Europe have approached his organization asking to sit down and have a briefing discussion on the Chinese operations overseas. So they are certainly aware of it, at least in some countries, Dahlin told The Epoch Times. More Locations While the Chinese authorities say these police stations are created to better serve its overseas nationals, the report notes the stations have been used to persuade up to 230,000 Chinese nationals to voluntarily return to China to face criminal proceedings between April 2021 and July 2022. Persuasion to return is a key method of the Chinese regimes involuntary returns operations, which include its Operation Fox Hunt and the broader Sky Net campaign, according to Safeguard Defenders. Many of the targets for persuasion to return were overseas Chinese allegedly involved in telecommunication fraud, though the report said a number of non-suspects and their family members in China have also been targeted for police harassment and intimidation. Map of the 30 countries where Chinese police have established 54 known 110 Chinese overseas police stations. (Courtesy of Safeguard Defenders) Dahlin said that in addition to the three stations in Torontotwo in Markham and one in Scarborough, whose locations were published in a Chinese state media outletthere are likely other unofficial Chinese police stations either existing or being established in Canada, though they have yet to be discovered. Weve also seen a [Chinese] government notice that said that 10 different provinces should launch these types of operations on a pilot basis, he said, pointing to the reports citation of a July 5, 2018, news release issued by Beijing. So, we have two of these operations uncovered [in Fujian Province and Zhejiang Province]. There might be eight more provinces doing this that could have their own stations, and we have not been able to track down that information yet. Thats why we keep saying that we believe and we have good reason to think that there are more [overseas Chinese police stations]. The news release is in relation to the Chinese State Councils 2018 Work Plan for the Supervision of the National Special Struggle Against Gang Crimes. A Chinese state media outlet reported in January 2019 that Beijing had conducted a first-round one-month supervision training from July to September 2018 in the 10 provinces of Hebei, Shanxi, Liaoning, Fujian, Shandong, Henan, Hubei, Guangdong, Chongqing, and Sichuan. Another report that year, in April 2019, said the regime had completed a second-round training for another 11 provinces, including Zhejiang Province where the Qingtian police service is located. Given the large Chinese diaspora population in Vancouver, Dahlin said he would find it very strange if the city didnt have at least one 110 police station. Transnational Repression Safeguard Defenders says its September report is part of its ongoing monitoring of Chinas growing global transnational repression. Dahlin said it came on the heels of another report by his organization, titled Involuntary Returnsreport exposes long-arm policing overseas. That earlier report, published in January 2022, looked at the Chinese regimes claim in December 2021 that its Sky Net operations, along with Operation Fox Hunt, have successfully brought some 10,000 fugitives back to China from around the globe since 2014, when Fox Hunt was launched as part of Chinese leader Xi Jinpings anti-corruption campaign. Those operations target what Dahlin described as high-value targets. Officially, Sky Net says it only targets economic criminals and officials accused of crimes like corruption or bribery, according to the Safeguard Defenders report, but Dahlin said Sky Net has been found to also target human rights defenders. Operations against high-value targets are run by the Chinese central police, whereas those involved in lower-level crimes like fraudwho are considered low-value targetsare tracked by the local Chinese police, he said. The most common method to do this is to persuade them to return voluntarily. Weve also had a number of cases where [Beijing] sent agentsChinese police officers, undercoverto the target countries; we have a number of people in the U.S. being indicted for this, he said. A third way, Dahlin said, is to use kidnappings. He noted that his organization has identified 22 cases of kidnapping. Although his organization hasnt found any cases of direct kidnapping in Canada, Dahlin said that in Canada and the United States, the Chinese regime does a lot more [of] sending secret agents to intimidate people and that type of operations. When asked about the severity of the Chinese overseas operations, he said the impact in Canada is certainly worse than Europe. Canada has such a significant Chinese diaspora communitymuch bigger than pretty much all of Europe togetherso certainly, theres a lot more people at risk in Canada, he said, adding that Canada, the United States, and Australia are the big three destinations when it comes to Chinese asylum-seekers and relocation. People holds protest signs as they stand in front of a vandalized Russian Consulate in New York City on Sept. 30, 2022. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images) US Officials React to Putins Nuclear Threat but Say Chances Are Low Biden administration officials and some of their predecessors have expressed anxiety over Russian President Vladimir Putins warning that hell use nuclear weapons if Ukraine tries to recover Kremlin-occupied territory that Putin announced the annexation of on Sept. 30. To be clear, the guy who makes that decision, I mean, its one man. There are no checks on Mr. Putin. Just as he made the irresponsible decision to invade Ukraine, you know, he could make another decision, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told CNN on Sept. 30. Putin made an indirect hint that hes contemplating the use of nuclear weapons on Sept. 30 while addressing hundreds of Russian lawmakers and governors in a grand Kremlin hall when he mentioned that the United States is the only country that has ever used a nuclear weapon, adding that: By the way, they created a precedent. The speech was followed by a signing-in ceremony with the Russian-appointed heads of the four Ukrainian regions that Russia occupied during the war. The signing-in was to formally start the annexation process of the Lugansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions. Later the day in a grand celebratory concert at Moscows Red Square, Putin said Welcome Home to the annexed Ukrainian regions which are partly still under Ukrainian troops. Austin termed Putins claim over the Ukrainian territory as illegal and his seemingly indirect warnings of a nuclear attack as an irresponsible statement. These areits nuclear saber-rattling. Its not what the kind of thing that we would expect to hear from leaders of large countries with capability, Austin told CNN on Oct. 1. Russian President Vladimir Putin (C) sings the national anthem during a rally and a concert marking the annexation of four regions of Ukraine Russian troops occupy Lugansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, at Red Square in central Moscow on Sept. 30, 2022. (Anton Novoderezhkin/SPUTNIK/AFP via Getty Images) U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sept. 30 that the Biden administration takes Putins nuclear speeches seriously but currently he doesnt see the possibility of a nuclear escalation. Our administration has been clear that there is a risk, given all of the loose talk and the nuclear saber-rattling by Putin, that he would consider this. And weve been equally clear about what the consequences would be. We have communicated that directly to the Russians, said Sullivan. We do not presently see indications about the imminent use of nuclear weapons. We are, of course, monitoring that carefully and staying in close consultation with allies and partners, he said adding that Putin has just brandished the nuclear card as he has earlier done. Former national security adviser H.R. McMaster discussed Putins aggression on CBS on Sunday and said Putin is under extreme pressure due to battlefield failures and mobilization losses. Well, I think the message to him is if you use a nuclear weapon, its a suicide weapon. And the response from NATO and the United States doesnt have to be nuclear, said McMaster in response to a question on Putins thoughts on using nuclear weapons. I dont think a nuclear weapon is usable there, you know. So, I think that we ought to take it seriously. We have to, but we ought to not allow this to cow us in terms of the support for the Ukrainians. Russian President Vladimir Putin is seen on a screen set at Red Square as he addresses a rally and a concert marking the annexation of four regions of Ukraine Russian troops occupy Lugansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, in central Moscow on Sept. 30, 2022. (Alexander Nemenov/AFP via Getty Images) Russian sources quoted in Russian media believe that these nuclear threats have seemingly led to nuclear deterrence and have stopped the United States and NATO from supplying powerful and advanced weapons to Ukraine. If we are talking about extended-range missiles with conventional warheads, then the threat of nuclear escalation is holding back the U.S. and NATO from supplying them to Ukraine, as well as from direct military participation in the conflict, Primakov Academy of Sciences Academician Alexei Arbatov said in an interview with Nezavisimaya Gazeta on Sunday. Arbatov said that this mutual deterrence is likely not sustainable. Ukrainian attacks on Crimea have already taken place, and in the future they are likely to affect the territories that joined Russia after the referendums, the new status of which is not recognized by either Ukraine or the West. This is the predictable fuse of a dangerous escalation of the conflict, he said. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said in an interview on CBS 60 Minutes on Sept. 26 that he has conveyed to the Russians to stop the loose talk about nuclear weapons. Russia has gotten itself into the mess that its in is because there is no one in the system to effectively tell Putin hes doing the wrong thing, said Blinken. Its very important that Moscow hear from us and know from us that the consequences would be horrific. Angel Harrelson strains to see if her husband Ken is looking out from the District of Columbia jail on October 1, 2022. (Brad Geyer/Special to The Epoch Times) Wife, 2 Dogs, and an Anniversary Message Make Jailed Jan. 6 Defendants Day as Trial Looms Angel Harrelson wanted to make sure her husband knew how much she loves him. She stood at the edge of the Congressional Cemetery in Washington on the evening of Oct. 1, holding a handmade sign. The message was simple and heartfelt: Happy Anniversary to the Love of My Life, My King. 13 Years. In a concrete-block building just across from the cemetery, retired U.S. Army Sgt. Ken Harrelson peered out through a slit that serves as his window to the world. There stood his wife, holding her sign, flanked by the couples two dogs, Thor and Kyra. It was an emotional moment. Angel smiled, placed her right hand over her heart, and blew a kiss. She wore a T-shirt with a photo from their 2009 wedding and the message: You fought for us. Now I fight for you. We love each other, Angel told The Epoch Times on Oct. 2. Thats all I wanted to show him is how much I love him. Angel Harrelson with her dogs Kyra and Thor, outside the D.C. jail, where she held up an anniversary message for her husband, Ken, on Oct. 1, 2022. (Brad Geyer/Special to The Epoch Times) The gesture did a world of good to buoy the spirits of her husband of 13 years, whos one of the five men on trial in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach Oath Keepers seditious conspiracy case in U.S. District Court. It was great, Ken told The Epoch Times in a phone interview from the D.C. Correctional Treatment Facility. I got a little emotional from it. First time Id seen the puppy dogs. The way they did it caught me off guard. Angel worked with the aunt of another Jan. 6 pretrial detainee to set up a ruse to get her husband out of his cell and away from the window as she got into position. They had set everything up. It took me away for a moment, and I turned around and Tim was standing there behind me, kind of wringing his hands, Ken said, referring to a fellow Jan. 6 detainee. I was like, What are you doing, man? [He said,] I was told to watch your reaction and report back.' The anniversary surprise was a bright light on a difficult journey, as Ken prepares to face a criminal trial that could stretch into November. He said he knows opening arguments in the case are going to be difficult as prosecutors try to paint him as someone that he says he isnt. Itll add to the memories, he said of the anniversary gift. The one thing I wont try to forget out of this whole thing. Kenneth and Angel Harrelson on their wedding day in 2009. (Courtesy of Angel Harrelson) On Oct. 1, the Harrelsons both had a chance to collect their thoughts and steel themselves for the onslaught of accusations from federal prosecutors ahead of the Oct. 3 start of the trial. Brad told me to be prepared, Angel said, referring to defense attorney Brad Geyer. Hurtful things are going to be said. Theyre going to lie a lot. He said, Brace yourself.' It was the second time in a week that Angel went out of her way to make sure her husband knew of her love and support at a critical time. During a break in jury selection, she tore a half sheet from a spiral notebook and dashed off a message. She gave the note to Geyer, who handed it to Ken. Hey my love! You look so good and that shirt n pants fits you good! I love you my love of my life & my king, the note reads, using the couples practice of referring to each other with royal titles. Love, your Queen (AKA wife). The note was a bright spot on a difficult day. Angel had purchased new clothes for her husband to wear at trial. It meant the world to me, Ken said. I havent had any contact with her in well over a year, so that was the first first day I think, wasnt it? Angel replied, The first time weve seen each other since you got arrested. That was on March 10, 2021. Ken said he folded the note and set it on the defense table in front of him. Ten minutes or more had gone by when a U.S. Marshal saw the note and had a total freak-out. Angel Harrelsons love note to her husband, Ken, caused a stir in U.S. District Court in Washington on Sept. 27, 2022. (Steve Baker/Special to The Epoch Times) You cant do this. Youre not allowed to communicate with your wife,' Ken cited the marshal as saying. Your attorney should know better than this. Youre not supposed to do this. Im going to have to bring this up to the judge. This is bad. This is a high-profile case, and you cant do this stuff.' After attorneys questioned a couple more potential jurors, the marshal alerted the court clerk about the note, and Judge Amit Mehta was notified. During a break, Mehta summoned Geyer and prosecutor Jeffrey Nestler to the bench. Geyer took responsibility for passing the note to his client, worried that Mehta might bar Angel from the courtroom for the trial. Mehta reacted as most would, however, seeing the humanity in Angels gesture to her husband. Angel Harrelson and her husband, Ken, shared a few text messages after she stood outside the D.C. jail with a handmade 13th anniversary greeting on Oct. 1, 2022. (Courtesy of Angel Harrelson) Geyer returned to the defense table, leaned over to Angel, and said, I saved it for you, according to journalist Steve Baker, who first reported about the note. Angel said she was out of the courtroom when the judge held a sidebar on her love note. I wasnt in there, so I didnt get to hear it, she said. But everybody looked pretty embarrassed. Angel made the trip with her sister to the Washington area from Florida in a rented camper. She said its more affordable for a two-month stay than a hotel or Airbnb rental, and also allowed her to bring her two dogs for emotional support. Travel, food, and accommodations for the trial are just the latest expenses faced by the Harrelson family. In June, the U.S. Veterans Administration told the couple that it was cutting off Kens Veterans Affairs benefits because of his indictment for alleged seditious conspiracy. That put Angel and her children behind a financial 8-ball. Aside from the Oath Keepers criminal trial, the District of Columbia has sued Ken and other Oath Keepers to recoup what attorneys claim are expenses related to the Capitol unrest. Angel said her familys defense costs for the Oath Keepers trial could easily reach $500,000 or more. Its horrible, she said. By the time this is all done, Im just worried were not gonna have anything left, no matter how much money we get in donations. A US company is creating the world's first mRNA vaccine for foot-and-mouth disease in Australia. (Chaideer Mahyuddin/ Getty Images) World-First mRNA Vaccine for Foot and Mouth Disease Underway An Australian state government has signed a deal with U..S biotechnology company Tiba Biotech to develop mRNA vaccines for Foot and mouth disease (FMD) and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) within a year. Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales (NSW) Paul Toole said the milestone would protect Australias $28.7 billion (US$18.5 billion) livestock industry. I have now written to vaccine manufacturers to take up my challenge to develop both vaccines ready for use and manufacture in NSW by Aug. 1 next year, Toole said in a statement. An outbreak of FMD, a contagious livestock disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, pigs, and sheep, would affect the meat and milk trades and lead to the slaughter of many animals, according to the government. Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said it is critical that Australia develop mRNA vaccines as quickly as possible to protect the livestock sector. The threat of FMD is ongoing, and there are concerns LSD could enter northern Australia this coming wet season, so its critical we continue to do what we can as quickly as we can, Saunders said. A vet vaccinates a cow for foot-and-mouth disease. (Australias Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment) Current FMD vaccines use the virus itself, and there is yet to be an approved vaccine for use in Australia for LSD, so creating mRNA vaccines to combat either disease would be a game-changer for the industry. He said that the mRNA vaccine is cheaper and quicker to produce, highly effective, and very safe. Because they are fully synthetic and do not require any animal or microbial products, they do not carry the same risks as traditionally derived vaccines, he said. Meat and Livestock Australia managing director Jason Strong said mRNA vaccines had added benefits for the livestock industry. This type of vaccine technology may not require the longer testing and approval processes required for conventional vaccine development and importation as it does not use animal products, Strong said. That means we can use it to provide faster responses to outbreaks, enable eradication and return to freedom statusand market accesssooner. Outbreak-Free for 150 Years Australia has not had FMD for over a century, and the last outbreak was not extensive. The most serious incident of the disease occurred in Victoria in 1872 when FMD was found on two farms near Melbourne. Authorities destroyed all livestock on the properties and quarantined some of the neighbouring properties. The risk of FMD hitting the country again is estimated to be just under 12 percent over the next five years, the government has said. Racing to stamp out the disease, it introduced a bill last week to increase penalties for failing to declare meat products that carry the risk of FMD. From Sep. 7, it passed a bill to ban the importation of meat for personal use from all countries with FMD. Prior to these new changes, Australians were able to bring in some highly processed meat products for personal uselike pate, pork crackling, or meat floss. That release could not be found. Do I really need a flu shot and a COVID-19 booster? Yes, and you can get them at the same time. Yellowstone Countys first case of influenza this season was confirmed last week. Flu also has been diagnosed recently in Flathead County. The specific flu strains identified in those two Montana cases are in this seasons flu vaccines, so the vaccine should offer good protection against them. In 2020, there were zero cases reported of influenza in Yellowstone County, thanks to efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 (limited social interaction, widespread masking, improved hand hygiene, etc.). Unfortunately, as we returned to normal life in 2021, flu once again circulated, matching pre-COVID-19 case numbers in Yellowstone County. Australias warning Infectious disease experts in the U.S. historically have watched influenza activity in the Southern Hemisphere (Australia and New Zealand) for indications of what the upcoming flu season will be like. This year, the outlook is bleak. Australia has had its worst flu season in five years. While this isnt a perfect predictor, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is on high alert for a very aggressive flu season in the United States. That, coupled with another COVID-19 surge, could mean severe illness or death for thousands of people. The U.S. isnt currently in a COVID-19 surge, yet community spread remains high in 85% of counties in the nation thanks to the highly contagious Omicron variant. Fortunately, the new Pfizer and Moderna boosters were created with that in mind and will help to restore protection that has faded since previous vaccination. These recently authorized boosters help provide broader protection against more variants. In 2020 and 2021, COVID-19 was the third leading cause of death in the United States, behind heart disease and cancer. Studies have shown that getting boosters into arms early this fall would prevent an estimated 12% to 15% of deaths over a nine-month period. The best way to prevent becoming seriously ill from the flu and COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. Vaccines cant provide 100% immunity, but do significantly reduce the odds of becoming seriously ill or hospitalized as well as lowering the risk of spreading illness to others. 2022-2023 flu shots This years flu vaccines protect against four strains of flu: influenza A (H1N1), influenza A (H3N2), and two influenza B viruses. Flu vaccines have been around since the 1940s, and have been shown to be very safe. Common side effects from a flu shot include soreness, redness, and/or swelling where the shot was given, headache, low-grade fever, nausea, muscle aches, and fatigue these are signs that your immune system is responding to the vaccine, which is exactly what it should do. Life-threatening allergic reactions to flu shots are very rare. The new COVID-19 boosters are bivalent, which means that they are half the original COVID-19 strain, and half Omicron BA.4 and BA.5. Pfizer's bivalent booster is authorized for those 12 or older, while Modernas authorization is for people 18 and up. People must complete a primary COVID-19 vaccine series before getting the booster. The recommendation is that people should wait at least two months from their last COVID-19 vaccine dose before getting a bivalent booster. The flu shot and COVID-19 boosters are now available at most clinics and pharmacies, and may be offered at low or no cost. Community members may call the RiverStone Health Immunizations Clinic at 406-247-3382 to make an appointment to get these vaccines. RiverStone Health Clinic patients can make appointments for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at our primary care clinics in Billings, Bridger, Joliet and Worden. In this report, ODIMEGWU ONWUMERE examines Nigeria's progress with the malaria gene drives and discovers that some interest groups accuse the government of concealing the truth while preparing to implement the drives, but the government says it is considering the economic benefits of the technology. Meanwhile, these groups, on the other hand, are skeptical in light of Burkina Faso's experience, where female modified mosquitoes hoped to be benign bit residents to their dismay. However, scientists have discovered that the malaria parasite that is responsible for the most prevalent form of malaria shares genetic variations in continents Through the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), guidelines for gene editing, primarily in agriculture, were approved by the Nigerian Federal Government in December 2020. As the first country in Africa, the government was praised for taking the momentous step of establishing guidelines for gene editing. mosquitoes The government sees science and technology as major drivers of agricultural productivity, as stated in the approved guidelines. This is due to the fact that the technology is guaranteed to be safe and won't harm the environment or human health. Scientists and non-governmental organizations have nonetheless refused to support the use of genetically engineered bacteria to eradicate malaria-carrying mosquitoes despite the government's actions. The reason was that a doctor from Nigeria who didn't want his name published said that gene-editing technology needs to be looked at carefully because there have been failed reports in some African countries, like Burkina Faso, where modified mosquitoes were released and people got bit by them. He added that scientists and environmentalists debated the value of gene editing technology in 2017, even in a civilized nation like Canada. The technique would have negative effects, as agreed upon by both sides. Frontiers-Genetics of Malaria Inflammatory Responses Despite the concerns, Rufus Ebegba, deputy director of the West African Integrated Vector Management Programme and director of the National Biosafety Management Agency of Nigeria, NBMA, stated that the National Guidelines on Regulation of Gene Editing needed to be reviewed and the policy for gene-based vector control methods like transgenic mosquitoes needed to be developed more quickly. According to the agency's head, the goal of these guidelines was not to stop technology, but rather to see how it could be used to help the government and improve Nigeria's economy. However, the NGOs issued a caution against introducing transgenic mosquitoes and other unlawful technologies. The evidence shows that these effects are still up for debate, and it seems reasonable that people who are personally affected and observers might have different perspectives. It would also make it harder for scientists to participate in UN negotiations, which are currently the only way to get a global perspective on the effects of technology. In 2020, as many as 175 civil society organizations (CSOs) around the world raised concerns about the plan to release genetically modified mosquitoes in Nigeria, claiming that the country is about to be used as a guinea pig, putting people at risk. The agenda is still being promoted by the government. The CSOs say that research done in Brazil and Burkina Faso showed how vulnerable the transgenic mosquito is. Experts asserted that the accidental release of female mosquitoes that bit Burkina Fasoans during the experiments put the community in danger and was a factor in this release's failure. The community members admitted that they were not sufficiently informed about the project or the potential dangers it posed. It was noted that the situation was comparable to that of Nigeria, where the well-known risk assessment of genetically modified crops was neither made available to the general public nor the subject of open and honest consultation. Both genetically modified cowpea and cotton have been approved for commercial release in Nigeria. "We have no confidence that the situation with the transgenic mosquitoes will be different or that requirements for liability and redress will be enforced," the CSOs declared. GMO mosquitoes Nigeria's biosafety law was updated in 2019 to include definitions for extreme technologies like gene drives, allowing their use. But fingers have been raised that this review was quickly proposed and approved, despite strong objections from groups like the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF.) Calls have been made over the years to review the law in order to close fundamental gaps that prevent it from serving the interests of the people. Nnimmo Bassey, Director of the HOMEF, Nigeria, one of the CSOs that signed the document, looked at Ebegba's "regulatory pathways for the control of genetically modified mosquitoes" as a way to make it easier for international proponents of gene-editing for the risky expertise. Checks revealed that the part that caused the most confusion was the fact that scientists discovered that the malaria parasite that is responsible for the most common form of malaria shares the same genetic variations even though the organisms are separated by continents. Concerning how to bring the technology to market, stakeholders and authorities in Nigeria have frequently disagreed. Despite the proposed war against malaria and the contentious technology for spreading genes throughout a population of animals, researchers claim to have successfully entrusted mosquitoes with genes that should render them immune to the malaria parasite and prevent them from spreading it. However, given that scientists have also expressed concerns about the possibility of drug-resistant mutations spreading globally as a result of the most recent discovery, efforts to eradicate the disease globally would be fraught with complications. A survey found that on Malaria Day in this year's April, Nigeria has lost N646 billion annually and recorded 200,000 deaths. This is frightening. Even though the researchers promote their malaria-eradication innovations in far-flung nations like Imperial College London and the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute in the United States, their research has less of an impact on the media than it does on human society. In contrast to the 2012, when Hopkins Malaria Research Institute in the United States made its gene editing known, Imperial College London made their inventions public on September 22, 2022. Though, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that 95% to 96% of malaria-related deaths worldwide occur in Africa. Children under the age of five account for 80% of malaria-related deaths in the region. Experts aim to create a model that, for the first time, can track the progression of such changes. It is evident that the entire gene editing industry is focused on Africa. There is no denying the fact that if I have the opportunity to be asked, Where Are The Prophets? in the same manner a Nigerian reggae musician, Peterside Ottong, asked in one of his music albums in 1989, that I would not hesitate to reply by saying Rev. Fr. Kelvin Ugwu is one of the prophets. The reason for the commendable reply cannot be farfetched, particularly when seen from the fact that he is loving and compassionate, honest and accountable and humble. Without a doubt, some of the attractive characteristics in him that compelled me to be one of his admirers is that he is a teacher, a philanthropist, and a social commentator; particularly on issues that concern Nigeria as a nation. For those that do not know who Rev. Fr. Ugwu is, it would be expedient in this context to say that he is an extraction of Enugu State and grew up in Abuja. He had his primary education at LEA Primary School, Karu, and government school and then proceeded to Government Secondary School Karu, where he specifically chose to study sciences in preparation to read Medicine and Surgery at the university. According to him at a media parley, while he was reading very hard to become a doctor, he could not help admiring the white cassock worn by priests. He said, It appeared very angelic to me. But as I kept growing, I saw myself longing to serve beyond just the white cassock. I wanted the priesthood to save souls, he revealed. Given the compelling force to serve humanity as a clergyman in the Christendom, Ugwu abandoned his dream of becoming a doctor and joined the congregation called Missionary Society of St. Paul (MSP), the first Nigerian indigenous missionary congregation founded by the Bishops Conference of Nigeria in 1977 to train priests for the mission. I entered the seminary in 2006 and was ordained in 2015 after nine years of intensive studies and formation, he explained. Ugwu is now the parish priest of a church in Kalembe in Malawi, where he oversees 51 outstations. The outstations, he says are a distance apart from one another but added that he always organizes programs every year to enable him to at least celebrate masses in all the outstations, attend to their spiritual needs, retreat, and other sacraments. Against the foregoing backdrop, it is assumed that an explanatory insight has in this context been thrown towards the understanding of who he is. Be that as it may, permit me to say that a post of his about Reno Omokri, extracted from the Facebook page of Igbo TV by this writer as a background material for this piece speaks volumes. The post titled, ATTENTION - Nigerians Beware!!! Reno Omokri, The Manipulative Emotional Blackmailer! reads as follows: Who first shared Peter Obi's picture printed on a Muslim mat and made it go viral? Reno Who used the mat and picture and tried to instigate a Muslim Vs Christian fight with arguments on tolerance and intolerance that even led to Peter Obi making a disclaimer? Reno Who started the false story of Peter Obi leaving PDP to join NNPP? Reno Who edited a picture of Peter obi and Kwankwaso and came up with the false story that Peter Obi is trying to sideline Kwankwaso in "his own party"? Reno Who is trying so hard to make Peter Obi look merely like an Igbo project? Reno Who is the one trying to gaslight Peter Obi's supporters by emotionally blackmailing them and accusing them of Cyberbullying? Reno Just this recent interview that Peter Obi granted with Arise news in which he used a driver-pilot analogy to explain how we need to start hiring the right and qualified candidate for the job without the primitive consideration of tribe and religion. . . who is trying to turn his analogy upside down to cause tension and division between Muslims in the North and Christians in the South by playing a mind game on the Northerners even to the extent of making the post in the Hausa language? Reno Who will come out to still post pictures of himself and Peter Obi and make videos claiming to be Peter Obi's friend? Reno Who is the man that claims to be a Christian Pastor yet does not believe that Jesus is God? Reno What is the best word that we can use to describe the person and actions of Reno Omokri? Please, if you have an idea, help me. . . Given the weight of notoriety in tarnishing the image of politicians that he is not working for, one would be compelled to agree with Ugwus opinion about Omokri. It is germane to say that in as much as this piece is not aimed at tarnishing the image of Omokri, it is pragmatic to say that his character was aptly captured by the well-respected clergyman, even as it is permissible to opine that he shares the same character with Femi Fani-Kayode (FFK). Recall that former President Olusegun Obasanjo aptly captured his character when he said, Femi Fani-Kayode is my boy. Provide him with food, he will eat and then sing for you. Hes a smart boy. In fact, given the predilection to attacking Obi and his Obi-dent followers, I was appalled when I read the news a few days ago that Omokri has announced his decision to stop throwing mud on other presidential candidates as well as their supporters. I was appalled, not because he has taken a decision no one has ever taken but because he would technically be out of business as it is well known that he financially survives, and literarily maintains his stomach by praising politicians; irrespective of party affiliations, and attacks their opponents by smearing their image, and calumniating them. I wondered, Just like that? I asked myself, Can a leopard change its spots? The news has it that Omokri said with the signing of the Peace Accord on Thursday, September 29, ahead of the 2023 general elections, his campaigns for the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, would now squarely be issue-based. I also gathered that he pledged to focus on selling his principal to Nigerians the best way rather than discussing why others are the worst. Omokri tweeted: The Peace Accord by the National Peace Committee was signed yesterday by my candidate. We have entered a new phase of campaigns. From today, my focus will be on persuading Nigerians as to why Waziri Atiku is the best candidate in 2023, not why others are the worst! As if his repentant, his peaceful and somewhat reconciliatory moves were not enough, in his reaction to the massive rallies held across the country by the Obi-dients movement on Saturday in support of the candidacy of Obi ahead of the 2023 presidential election has said that Peter Obi, the flag bearer of the Labour Party, and his Obi-dients supporters have disrupted the Nigerian political space. According to Omokri, the rallies were great achievements, as the Obi-dient movement is too strong to be belittled. On Twitter, he wrote; The Obi-dient rallies at Festac and Amuwo were amazing. They are great achievements. Anyone who tries to belittle them is not politically astute. While Obi will not win in 2023, he has successfully disrupted politics in Nigeria. Well done Obi! Well done Obidients! In an earlier tweet, Omokri described the rallies as merely a show of force by southeastern traders. The tweet read; These so-called one million man marches are mostly a gathering of traders in various Nigerian towns and cities, who close down their markets (that are heavily dominated by people of southeastern origin), to do what in the military is called a show of force. Against the foregoing backdrop, permit me to say I so much believe in an Igbo proverb that says Onu Kuru Njo Ge Ku Nma, which interpretatively means The mouth that utters bad words will also utter good words. It is used to calm fray nerves that anyone that tarnished your image will one day speaks well about you. However, I am using this piece to caution fellow Obi-dients and Mr. Peter Obi to beware of an Omokri bearing gifts. I must confess that the foregoing admonition was inspired by the phrasal saying, Beware of Greeks bearing gifts, which is a saying that stems from the legend of the Trojan War, where the Greek army left the Trojans a gift of a giant wooden horse, with Greek soldiers hidden inside. When the Trojans brought the horse inside the gates of Troy, the Greek soldiers slipped out of the horse, opened the city gates to let in the Greek army, and Troy was conquered. Simply put in this context, the Obi-dients and Peter Obi should be suspicious of people like Omokri who suddenly became kind to them by saying commendable words about Obi and the Obi-dients. It is expedient to say that the phrase Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts is a proverb that is given as a warning. If someone tells you to beware of Greeks bearing gifts, he is warning you to be wary about the reasons why someone is suddenly treating you kindly. President Muhammadu Buhari has released a huge sum of money for the reconstruction of the Ogwuma section of Ebunwana - Ekoli Edda road recently devastated by landslide. Governor David Umahi disclosed this Sunday during an Interdenominational church service to mark the 62nd Independence Day celebration of Nigeria and 26 years of creation of Ebonyi State. The church service was held at Saint Paul's Catholic Parish Onuebonyi, Abakaliki. The Governor appreciated the President for the gesture and other numerous assistance to the State within the period of his administration, adding that there has been no single memo taken to the President on behalf of the state that failed to receive his approval. Governor Umahi who restated his earlier decision to choose his successor from Ebonyi North Zone in 2023, insisted that it was in the interest of justice, equity and fairness. He urged the People to rally round the candidacy of Right Honourable Francis Nwifuru, assuring that Nwifuru would consolidate on his lofty achievements. "I am a product of justice, equity and fairness and because of equity I insist that the next Governor must come from the North, but I can see few people of Ebonyi North still wanting power to return to almost the same town with me. "Anything that is not rooted in justice, equity and fairness is bound to fall. "I believe in justice, equity and fairness. "After waiting on the Lord, God spoke to me about my successor. "That seat has been anointed, and it is for the Speaker who has served the State and I want to assure you that he is a product of the Church. "May it please God and the Church." The Governor while attributing the successes of his administration to the partnership with the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Divine Mandate Pastors, the Elders Council; the Founding Fathers among others, reiterated that his Government would continue to impact lives until it winds down in 2023. "When I was building the Governor's Lodge in Abuja, Tinubu passed there and said he thought it was a five-star hotel. Shettima passed and said it is the best house in the whole of Abuja. "In other words, I was building for the future. "That is the way to go. Governor Umahi further admonished Ebonyi citizens to always give gratitude to God. "We can not get up until we begin to be grateful to God. "Gratitude is an acknowledgement of the mercies of God in our lives so we have to give it because if we keep it, it becomes dangerous." Governor Umahi pledged to assist the church complete its ongoing church building as well as provide solar lights, boreholes and and a 50KVA transformer to the church to enhance power supply from national grid. In a sermon, the South East Zonal Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend Father Abraham Nwali, tasked christians on the imperative of gratitude as a justification for God's benevolence to mankind. Nwali, also the parish priest of the church, observed that constant complaints rob christians of the spirit of gratitude, emphasized that Ebonyi State has many reasons to be thankful to God. "We owe God gratitude; every living being should be grateful to God. "Anybody that is always complaining in life finds it difficult to appreciate good things. "Why are we grateful to God as Ebonyians? "Twenty-six years ago, part of the whole place now called Ebonyi State was formerly known as one Local Government, Abakaliki Local government. When the state was newly created, the idea of coming to Ebonyi State was a nightmare. "We should be grateful because of the discipline; we should be grateful because of the unity bridges of Chief Elechi; we should be grateful because of the free education of Dr. Sam Ominyi Egwu, and we should be grateful because of the Infrastructural development and human empowerment of Governor Umahi." The scramble for and partition of Africa which had the sinister chairmanship imprimatur of the then German Chancellor, Otto Von Bismarck is still largely responsible for many of the wars and conflicts plaguing the African Continent till date. The ill thought out partitioning fuelled by greed and mindless avarice saw many strange bedfellows being lumped together. These hastily created nations lacked one of the key attributes of a nation-state autochthony which is the sturdy grundnorm for which nations are built as mores like a shared history, experiences and even clauses like secession, referendums and constitutional evolutions are clearly decided amongst the people. The partition done between 1885 and 1914 is the remote cause of the sinister fallout of tribalism that has plagued many African nations and eaten deep into the fabric of the modern African State in a manner that even the worst of cancer affliction can only but imagine. What do you make out of nations like Angola, Sudan, Congo etc that ended up having long drawn out wars which resulted in the loss of millions of lives as a result of the landmines set by the rapacious appetite of the long departed colonial masters who were determined to transform themselves into neo-colonialists and prove to the world that the black savages would be perpetually incapable of effectively governing themselves. Peace accords which in most cases were facilitated by prying Western Interests ensured that nations in Africa coming out of a lengthy war wouldnt slip into another as a result of hotly disputed electoral results which in most cases see the cruel unleashing of ruthless violence on the hapless people because in Africa the polity controls the economy and the restricted economic space for legitimate advancement ensures that the polity is about the most lucrative enterprise and so the stakes are high and are fuelled as well as sustained by the blood of the innocents. Last week, a peace accord for the peaceful conduct of the 2023 general elections in Nigeria was signed by eighteen political parties at the International Conference Centre in Abuja which was chaired by former Military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar. The presidential candidates signed a commitment to a peaceful conduct before, during and after the polls next year. Elections as characterized by erstwhile Nigerian President and self-styled peace maker, General Olusegun Obasanjo was aptly described by him as a do or die affair. The stakes are extremely high in a near failed state that is the current reality of Nigeria once a child of promise in 1960 when the Union Jack was lowered and so to the untrained eye given the incidents of post-election violence that the country has witnessed, it made sense for this intervention to happen. I beg to humbly disagree. Peace accords are signed by nations just coming out of a war. This so called charade would have made a whole lot of sense if it had been signed in 1970 after the Federal Forces chased the then Biafran Warlord, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu to a twelve year exile in Cote DIvoire. Nigeria a toddler still in diapers ought to have evolved beyond that level more than six decades after political independence. Many critics of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the standard bearer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) blasted him for not honouring the invitation to sign the so called peace accord. Some even alluded to a well circulated rumour that his health was in dire straits as he was being treated for an undisclosed ailment in a faraway London hospital. While not holding brief for Tinubu as I have never met him before and I am not a card carrying member of the APC or any other political party for that matter, I think his absence at the peace accord was a deft master stroke and a step ahead in his famed political wizardry which has seen him emerge triumphant in all his electoral battles. How insulting to the sensibilities of Nigerians was the decision of the handlers to allow General Abdulsalami Abubakar to chair the epoch making event? Have we sunk this low in a clime that routinely emasculates its best and brightest? What are Abubakars antecedents to qualify him to chair such an event? Here was a man who contributed to the economic woes of the Man on the Clapham Omnibus! There was an unconfirmed report of about $2.7 billion being drawn out of the foreign reserve account between December 1998 and March 1999 as reported by the Africa Confidential Magazine during his time as the Military Head of State before he handed over power to another democrat in the person of his successor, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. He until he clears himself in a Court of Competent Jurisdiction is an adversary of the Nigerian Hoi Polloi as his clear anti-people policy of alleged gargantuan larceny is partly responsible for their current economic woes. What about his human rights record? For crying out loud here was a man who was the Chief of Army Staff and number three man in the murderous General Sani Abacha led regime which saw the brutal murder of the presumed winner of the June 12 1993 Presidential Elections, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, Alfred Rewane, Ken Saro-Wiwa, Bagaulda Kaltho amongst many others. It saw the forcing into exile of Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Alani Akinrinade, Ndubuisi Kanu amongst many others. It saw the brutal muzzling of the press as fearless journalists like Dapo Olorunyomi and many others were forced into exile with many journalists coldly thrown into the labour market as media houses like Punch, Guardian, Concord, Tell, The News etc were proscribed. He cannot attempt to rewrite history by opining that he wasnt part of these anti-democratic plots especially the failed agenda to enthrone Abacha as the nations life President when all the five political parties founded and funded by the State all unilaterally adopted him as their Consensus Presidential Candidate. Why didnt he resign if he had a conscience? His colleagues Former Senate President, David Mark and ex Military Adminsitrator of Kaduna State, Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar resigned from the army after the June 12 annulment and in Marks case fled to the UK in a self-imposed exile. Why then is this murder enabler now the poster boy for peace, democracy and good governance in the country? What happened to the likes of Rev Father Matthew Hassan Kukah or even Chief Emeka Anyaoku, the former Commonwealth Secretary-General if the charade was to be given some modicum of legitimacy and decency? Enough of this insult on the collective intelligence on Nigerians by agent provocateurs of anarchy and malevolence! Tony Ademiluyi is a public affairs analyst and can be reached on +2348167677075 and [email protected] Scaling up public investment in Agriculture has been advocated as the surest way of saving Nigeria from increasing hunger and low productivity in the sector. Agriculture stakeholders in Ebonyi State took the position during a one-day consultative meeting for 2023 budget held recently in Abakaliki, the State capital. The meeting was organised by a Civil Society organisation, Participatory Development Alternatives, PDA, in collaboration with Ebonyi Budget Committee Group, State Ministries of Agriculture and Finance, with support from Action-Aid Nigeria. In a communique at the end of the meeting, the stakeholders drawn from the relevant government Ministries, department and agencies, farmer organizations, as well as over 20 Civil Society organisations in the State, observed that agricultural sector has a huge potential of accelerating growth in the countrys real gross domestic product. They however regretted that poor funding, delayed or non release of funds meant for the sector by the government has impeded growth in the sector over the years. They strengthened the advocacy for the State government to allocate at least, 10 percent of its total annual budget to Agriculture, targeted at specific areas of gap and backed with prompt fund releases for timely activities. While demanding for greater social and gender inclusion in agricultural budgeting processes by the government, the communique further called for joint awareness creation by the government and the CSOs on the need for all citizens to take interest in the evolution of the agric budget in the State. Part of the communique reads: Public investment in agriculture should be scaled up in the specific areas of Extension Services, Access to Credit, Women in Agriculture, Youth in Agriculture, Appropriate Labour-Saving Technologies, Inputs, Post-Harvest Losses Reduction Supports (processing facilities, storage facilities, trainings, market access, etc.); Climate Resilient Sustainable Agriculture/Agro ecology; Research and Development, Monitoring and Evaluation, as well as Coordination. The yearly States agriculture budget should be more gender responsive by providing line items for the implementation of the Gender Policy in Agriculture meant to address specific challenges that affect women farmers, different from men as well as avoid lumping up budget for women farmers and other groups. State Ministries of Agriculture and other Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) should consistently create budget lines for wider stakeholder consultation in the budget formulation; provide continued coordination and the implementation of Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on the Agriculture Budget annually. The communique advised all relevant authorities, state and non-state actors: MDAs, Legislators, Farmer Organizations and CSOs to intensify monitoring of budgeted Agricultural projects in the State using the State-adopted measurement framework of the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Progamme, CAADP. It added that the results when documented, shared, and reviewed would enhance further improvement in budget implementation. The Program Officer, ActionAid-supported Scale Up Public Investment in Agriculture (SUPIA) Project of PDA, Ugochi Joseph, while discussing the objectives of the meeting, lamented the States recurring low budgetary allocation to Agriculture sector. Joseph observed: The State agriculture budget stood at 2.9 percent, which shows the weak commitment of government to agriculture budget; in both allocation and expenditure. For instance, the 2021 allocation to ADP captured N7, 900,000 whereas no budget line was released for ADP in 2021 to help support Smallholder Farmers, especially women farmers to implement their program. While commending the State Government for increased budgetary allocation to the State Agricultural Development Pprogramme in the 2022 budget to N96,669,500 being 8.71%, higher than the allocation of 2021, she enjoined the government to also ensure release of the fund. I hope the State Government deems it fit to release the fund allocated to ADP for implementation of projects and programs and not just captured in the budget in order to hype Government. There is also the need for government to pay attention to the priorities of women farmers in ensuring that specific budget line items is capture in the budget as this will enhance their agriculture work Joseph insisted. Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary, State Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Patricia Okiri, in her comment, stated that the State government has many competing priorities in the budget, and assured that the concerns of the stakeholders would be taken to the appropriate quarters for necessary actions. She however, maintained that the present administration in the State has introduced many farmer friendly programmes such as grants, soft loans and input assistance to farmers to boost food production in the State, In an opening remark, the Ebonyi State coordinator of the Budget Committee Group, Comrade Matthias Okinya, stated that the committee works assiduously in catalyzing increased and focused public investment in agriculture through enhanced citizens participation in policy making, adding that part of its goals was to increase productivity and well-being of smallholder women farmers, their households and communities in Nigeria. Based on the prevailing atmosphere of maladministration, fear, and economic quagmire that Nigerians have unprecedentedly been witnessing seven years down the line, one cannot be called a doomsday prophet, particularly when the question, Where would Nigerians be in six months, a year, four years and at worst eight years from now? is asked. The foregoing crucial questions need to be answered because since the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) blew its whistle on September 28, 2022, for electioneering ahead of the 2023 presidential election to commence, I have always found myself lying awake at night wondering what the future holds for my loved ones, vulnerable friends, relatives, and entire Nigerians. Since the electoral umpire blew the whistle for the campaign to commence in earnest, I have always been obsessed with the question, Hope the next crop of leaders will not be the type that will resort to blaming theirpredecessors by resorting to telling Nigerians whose collective would be dashed through their media teams that their predecessors had unpatriotically and corruptively messed up the economy. After all, the ongoing APC-led government calumniated former President GoodluckJonathan so much so that Instead of giving Nigerians the change they deserve, and which they were assuredly promised, they spent a whole lot of time during the first term in office giving excuses. They unashamedly blamedJonathan for everything, so much that the heavy downpour that was witnessed by Nigerians in that year, which was 2015, was almost attributed to what they mischievously termed to be Jonathans cluelessness. In fact, virtually every blunder they made was blamed on Jonathan. If there was a petrol shortage, they blamed it on Jonathan. If anyone was kidnapped, they blamed it on Jonathan. They unarguably hid under the excuses that Jonathan did not perform to ostensibly renege virtually all the electoral promises they made ahead of the 2015 presidential election, which cut across free education; free meals daily for millions of Nigerian public school children; free tertiary education; free health care and free houses. At the moment, after almost eight years in power, they are still myopically seeing Jonathans performance as the reason why they could not fulfill the campaign promises they made as far back as in 2014 and 2015. They have failed to completely deliver on any of the highfalutin promisesthey made, but continue to blame former Goodluck Jonathan and other politicians that held sway in that political dispensation. Who is to be blamed when the issue is viewed from a proverbial perspective given the proverbial fact that a bad workman blames his tools? Against the foregoing backdrop, it is expedient at this juncture for anyone to swing his hand around his head, and pray, God forbid, may affliction never come for the second time, and match the prayer by voting for credible candidates during the upcoming 2023 general elections without exhibiting any element of primordial sentiments that cut across party and religious affiliations as well as tribal affiliation. Without mincing words, it is enough in this piece to opine that we have suffered enough at the hands of our political leaders. This is the time for us to determine to vote them out from political offices come 2023, and vote those we would deem fit to govern the nation aright. We cannot afford to elect another crop of leaders that has the predilection of passing the buck without accepting responsibility for their crass failures. I must confess that I am afraid of the electorates usheringweak and clueless political leaders to strategic political offices that have direct or remote bearings on the destinies of the people. Once again even as I keep wondering about what will happen to my job, even though Im somewhat luckier than many to be a struggling-to-survive Journalist wherein I hardly get paid on monthly basis as at when due as a result of the economic quagmire which the ongoing government has plunged my employer into, and worse still companies in other sectors where I would have deployed my communication skills to are equally struggling to survive as a result of the same economic reason that is been exacerbated by weak and inept leaders across all tiers of government. There are a number of possible futures, all dependent onthe candidate we chose to vote for ahead of the next political dispensation, and we cannot afford to sacrifice the opportunity on the altar of some few cups of rice and perhaps, N1000 on that day we would constitutionally be mandated to go to the polls. Hopefully, I am optimistic that with a crop of patriotic and incorruptible leaders being dispassionately chosen at the polls come 2023 that there would be a huge opportunity to rebuild and engender a better and people-centeredgovernment at all tiers. But we may slide into something worse if we literarily cave into the trap of religious,partisan, and tribal sentiments. Against the foregoing backdrop, it becomes expedient for us to vote for credible and strong candidates, come February 2023 when the general election is billed to hold. I think the sufferings we have been passing through for more than seven years down the line are excruciating enough for us to understand our situation, and what might lie in our future, by wisely supporting candidates we conscientiously think will be good leaders when voted to political offices. Be that as it may, it suffices to say that as we keep hailing and marketing the candidates, particularly the presidentialcandidates among them that we should not forget Sunday Adelajas quotable quote that says, Your destiny lies in your hands and can be molded with each passing day by the choices you make. Boy, 15, drives BMW through red light, kills new grad NAKHON RATCHASIMA: Allegedly reckless driving by a 15-year-old boy has put an end to the life of a newly-graduated student engineer. death By Bangkok Post Monday 3 October 2022, 09:14AM The wreckage of the BMW driven by a 15-year-old boy is seen after it hit a newly-graduated student at Suranee University of Technology in Muang district of Nakhon Ratchasima on Friday night (Sept 30). Photo: Prasit Tangprasert Thanaphol Kaewmoon, 24, was riding a motorcycle from his office in Suranaree University of Technology in Muang district of Nakhon Ratchasima back to his room on Friday (Sept 30) when the accident happened. He was hit by a BMW sedan, driven by the boy, that ran a red light at an intersection outside the campus at 10pm, reports the Bangkok Post. Thanaphol died instantly at the scene due to the massive impact of the crash. Rangsan Wongsawan, who taught him at the faculty of telecommunication engineering, said yetserday his student worked part-time at the university hospital while he prepared to pursue his masters degree. The student had graduated with honours, his teacher added. The name of the young driver of the BMW was withheld as he was underage. Pol Lt Col Paisarn Panrew, the chief interrogator at Pho Klang police station responsible for the case, said yesterday the boy would be charged with careless driving leading to death, running a red light and driving without a licence. The driver was speeding and had not stopped at a red light when his BMW collided with the motorbike driven by Thanaphol, the officer said. The driver stayed at the scene, waiting for police to arrive. Rak Kaewmoon, the father of the victim, said at his house in Nakhon Sawans Tha Tako district that he was stunned and speechless when Nakhon Ratchasima police showed him the CCTV footage of the crash. Mr Rak said he would pursue legal action to the limit after watching the horrifying clips. The body of Thanaphol was sent to his birthplace in Tha Tako for chanting and cremation at Wat Don Kha. ERC preps rules for clean energy providers BUSINESS: The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is preparing to select companies qualified to sell clean electricity to the government under its plan to bolster renewable energy supply in Thailand. environmentnatural-resources By Bangkok Post Monday 3 October 2022, 10:00AM BCPGs wind power facilities in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The company is ready to submit proposals to develop and operate wind and solar farms with a capacity of 100MW. Photo: Bangkok Post Authorities are drafting selection criteria after the state plan to buy electricity from companies produced from renewable sources passed a public hearing held in early July, reports the Bangkok Post. Khomgrich Tantravanich, secretary-general of the ERC, said state grid operators will buy electricity from licensed companies to develop renewable energy power plants, with combined generation capacity of 5.2 gigawatts, during the period 2022-2030. The 5.2GW capacity is projected to come from four renewable sources: bio-gas (335 megawatts), wind power (1,500MW), on-ground solar farms (2,368MW), and on-ground solar farms with energy storage systems (1,000MW). He said ERC will consider the technical qualifications of power businesses and electricity prices of participating companies before making a decision. Authorities expect to receive proposals from companies during November and December, announcing a list of all qualified participants in January next year. The companies will be screened again, with the result set to be announced during May to June. Selected companies are expected to start commercial operations of their power plants between 2024 and 2030. According to the ERC, the purchase of electricity from the four sources will increase the proportion of renewable energy to 50% of fuels used for national electricity generation, up from around 10% last year. This amount of renewable energy is enough to generate 9,996MW of electricity, said the regulator. Authorities expect investors in clean power to spend up to B200 billion total to develop renewable energy power generation facilities. Phuwadon Suntornwipart, president of BCPG Plc, a renewable energy arm of Bangchak Corporation, said his company is ready to submit proposals to develop and operate wind and solar farms with a capacity of 100MW. Sopacha Dhumrongpiyawut, chairman of the executive committee of Gunkul Engineering Plc, said the firm is interested in solar and wind energy and wants them to make up half of its 1GW renewable energy development plan over five years. Littee Kitpipit, chief executive of Scan Inter Plc, said the company aims to develop a solar farm with a capacity of 30-40MW. Prayut cautious on political future BANGKOK: Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha kept silent on his political future today (Oct 3) as he returned to work after the Constitutional Court ruled in his favour, extending his legal tenure until 2025. politics By Bangkok Post Monday 3 October 2022, 05:30PM Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha takes the chair at a meeting on the flood situation at the Interior Ministry today (Oct 3), as he resumed duty. Photo: Supoj Wancharoen The future is the future, he told reporters as he left the Interior Ministry and headed to Government House. He avoided answering questions. Gen Prayuts first duty was to be briefed on the flood situation by provincial governors at the Interior Ministry as he prepared for a visit to Ubon Ratchathani and Khon Kaen tomorrow, reports the Bangkok Post. He has pushed back the weekly cabinet meeting to Wednesday to allow for his flood inspection trip to the northeastern provinces. The court ruled on Friday that Gen Prayuts eight-year term in office started on April 6, 2017, when the current constitution was promulgated. That meant he could serve as prime minister until April 7, 2025. The court on Sept 24 temporarily suspended Gen Prayut from duty while the judges were considering his case. He continued working as defence minister. A general election must be held by May next year, which means Gen Prayut could not stay in office for the full four-year term if again chosen as prime minister. Gen Prayut came to power as the Palang Pracharath Partys sole candidate for the office, as an outsider, after the general election in 2019. Veteran politician Veerakorn Kumprakob, a Palang Pracharath MP for Nakhon Sawan, said on Saturday the ruling party would propose three candidates for the position at the coming election. They would be Gen Prayut, Palang Pracharath leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon and one other person. The constitution allows each party to name three candidates for the prime ministership. Party spokeswoman Patcharin Samsiriphong yesterday quickly denied the statement by Mr Veerakorn, saying it did not reflect the partys position on this issue. Swedish man pulled from crashed car before flames engulf MG PHUKET: A 46-year-old Swedish man was helped out of his crashed MG sedan just in time before the car became engulfed in flames in Cherng Talay yesterday afternoon (Oct 2). transportSafetyaccidentspolice By Eakkapop Thongtub Monday 3 October 2022, 09:47AM Police were called to the scene, at the entrance to Pasak Soi 1, at about 3:30pm. Officers arrived to find a silver MG5 slammed into a signpost. The car was already ablaze. The driver, Christoffer Mattias Hans Ottosson, 46, had already been helped out of the car by local resident Phan Faikaew, 53, who witnessed the incident. Mr Ottosson had reportedly suffered a broken right arm and minor injuries in the accident. He had already been taken to Thalang Hospital for treatment. Mr Phan told police that the car was travelling towards Baan Don when it struck two other smaller signs posted alongside the road before slamming into the larger, more steadfast, signpost for a local resort. The fire started underneath the car, Mr Phan said. Unable to quickly find a fire extinguisher, he decided to help Mr Ottosson out of the car as quickly as he could. Traffic along the road was closed while firefighters took 20 minutes to extinguish the flames. Lt Col Worawut Sensob, Deputy Inspector General of the Cherng Talay Police, said officers were continuing their investigation into the accident. The University of Montana has been named the top university in the country for service to its community and the country. The report comes from Washington Monthly, a magazine of U.S. politics and government based in Washington, D.C., which also ranks four-year American colleges and universities as an alternative to U.S. News & World Reports college rankings. The publication lists UM as the No. 1 institution in the country for its highest concentration of community and national service. The top ranking reflects UMs deep commitment to civic service, a value that is embedded within UMs institutional mission and broader public engagement. The magazine ranks universities based on their contribution to the public good in three broad categories: social mobility, research and promoting public service. In the service category, UM ranked above many of the nations prestigious private and public institutions, including George Washington University, University of Notre Dame, Duke University, Georgetown University, Johns Hopkins University and many more. UM President Seth Bodnar said the Washington Monthly ranking formally identifies UMs cornerstone pillar and educational outcome. This ranking confirms what is in the very fabric of a UM education: that our students and alumni understand the value of giving back, he said. I cant think of more critical gift to the world than students who are civically minded and engaged in their communities. Bodnar said Grizzlies serve the wider public in innumerable ways many of which are embedded within an academic program that includes service learning, volunteer hours or a community project. Additionally, UM students are actively involved in UMs Peace Corps Prep Program, in UMs Military and Veterans Services and within UMs dedicated programs in service and volunteerism. The ranking determined the service score by measuring each colleges performance across a range of measures, including AmeriCorps and Peace Corps, military service and federal work-study grant funding spent on community service projects. The ranking methodology also included data related to student voter registration; voter activity; the number of degrees awarded in health, education and social work; and a colleges rate of producing leaders in socially valuable fields. Since its earliest days, UM has reflected a deep commitment to public service and has developed academic, career and co-curricular programs that infuse a UM education with volunteer and civic opportunities. UM students work and study diverse areas that mirror Montanas greatest public needs. These include youth-in-crisis, public education, food insecurity, addiction studies, mental health counseling, natural resource nonprofit work, racial equity, legal services and much, much more. For many students, their first interaction as a Grizzly includes an experience within the community. UMs New Student Orientation includes the Big Sky Experience, where students work alongside community partners including the Missoula Food Bank and Community Center and other nonprofits, including Free Cycles Missoula and Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. The point of the Big Sky Experience is to showcase to new students that a UM education is part of the community, said Devin Carpenter, director of New Student Success. The takeaway for students when theyre learning about service opportunities, is an awakening and understanding of what we do here and why it matters. It feels like a special and unique tradition and one that is long held. Bodnar said the ranking cements UM's legacy as an institution that prioritizes service. The kind of work our students are drawn to and the careers they choose are deeply informed by UMs ethos of service, Bodnar said. A life of impact, alongside an understanding that we have a greater calling to something bigger than ourselves, is truly the gift of education. Ukraine says key eastern town cleared of Russian troops KYIV: Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky said yesterday (Oct 2) that Lyman, a key town located in one of four Ukrainian regions annexed by Russia, had been cleared of Moscows troops. RussianUkrainepoliticsmilitaryviolence By AFP Monday 3 October 2022, 10:15AM Denmark, Germany and Norway have just announced more weapons deliveries for Ukraine Yasuyoshi. Photo: AFP The latest development in Ukraines weeks-long counter-offensive against Moscows invasion comes as Russia pushed forward with finalising the annexation of captured Ukrainian territories despite condemnation from Kyiv and the West. The recapture of Lyman - which Moscows forces pummelled for weeks to control earlier this year - marks the first Ukrainian military victory in a territory the Kremlin has claimed as its own and vowed to defend by all possible means. Ukraines army said it had entered Lyman, a strategic railway hub in the eastern Donetsk region, on Saturday, prompting Moscow to announce the withdrawal of its troops from the town towards more favourable lines. The recapture of Lyman had become the most popular story in the media, Zelensky noted in his Sunday evening address. But the successes of our soldiers are not limited to Lyman, he added. The previous day he had pledged to retake more areas in the countrys eastern Donbas region within the week. Now I am optimistic and very motivated, a 33-year-old Ukrainian soldier using the nom de guerre Smoke, told AFP after returning from near Lyman. I see the activity on the front line, and how foreign weapons... help us take our lands back. Kyiv got a further boost yesterday when Berlin said Germany, Denmark and Norway would deliver 16 armoured howitzer artillery systems from 2023. The three NATO members had agreed to jointly finance the procurement of the Slovakian Zuzana-2 guns, the German defence ministry said, although the announcement falls short of Kyivs demands for Germanys Leopard battle tanks. Russian court approves annexation With Russian losses mounting, some experts have warned that President Vladimir Putin could turn to nuclear weapons - an option floated by one Putin ally. Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said Saturday that Russia should consider using low-yield nuclear weapons after Moscows troops were forced out of Lyman. Putin staged a grand Kremlin ceremony on Friday to celebrate the annexation of the four Ukrainian territories - Donetsk, Kherson, Lugansk and Zaporizhzhia - following referendums denounced as void by Kyiv and its allies. Despite condemnation from the West, Russias Constitutional Court yesterday recognised as lawful the annexation accords Putin signed with the Moscow-backed leaders of the four Ukrainian territories. The annexation treaties will be considered by Russias lower house of parliament, the State Duma, today, according to Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin. The European Unions foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Russias annexation move made ending the conflict much more difficult, almost impossible. Pope Francis yesterday implored Putin to stop the spiral of violence and death, condemning the annexations as breaches of international law. The four territories create a crucial land corridor between Russia and the Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014. Together the five regions make up around 20% of Ukraine. Kyiv has also called for the immediate release of Ihor Murashov, the chief of the Moscow-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, condemning his illegal detention by the Russians on Friday. This is another manifestation of completely frank Russian terror, Zelensky said yesterday. Following the annexations, Washington announced severe new sanctions against Russian officials and the defence industry, and said G7 allies support imposing costs on any nation backing annexation. French President Emmanuel Macron promised to work on introducing new EU sanctions against Moscow following a telephone conversation yesterday with Zelensky, his office said. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan also discussed the developments with Ukraines presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak in Istanbul. Washington and its allies would impose severe costs on any individual or entity that backed Russias purported annexations, said Sullivan, according to a statement from his office. Grave concern In a statement from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), its chief Rafael Grossi said Murashovs detention was cause for grave concern. Grossi is expected to travel to Kyiv and Moscow next week, the UN agency added. Zaporizhzhia - Europes largest nuclear energy facility - has been at the centre of tensions, with Moscow and Kyiv accusing each other of strikes on and near the plant, raising fears of an atomic disaster. Zelensky urged the US-led military alliance NATO to grant his country fast-track membership. He also vowed never to hold talks with Russia as long as Putin remains in power. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg slammed the annexations as illegal and illegitimate but remained non-committal after Ukraine said it was applying to join the Western alliance. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. A local nonprofit soup kitchen is exploring new ways to reduce everyday costs and provide more meals in an environmentally sustainable way. Heavens Helpers Soup Cafe in Bismarck next spring plans to install solar panels to the roof of its building with the goal of slashing utility costs. North Dakota-based Lightspring will do the work. Lightspring has previously helped with solar panel projects at Spas Etc. and United Tribes Technical College. The project came about through the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC's Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program, which aims to build the leadership skills of community members. Class of 2022 members proposed the project that has been dubbed "From Sun to Soup." The group was inspired by Chamber EDC's "Energy Day," and recognized that a readily available but underutilized natural resource was right above its head. Jim Kambeitz (of Lightspring) talked about how North Dakota has one of the best sunshine seasons, but is one of the lowest-ranked states to utilize solar, group member Teresa Chrest said. Group members approached Heavens Helpers Executive Director Mark Meier about the possibility of adding solar panels to his cafe. They were met with enthusiasm. I was excited because it was something that we always thought about doing but couldnt because of the cost, Meier said. The solar panels will be installed on the south half of the roof at a cost of $64,315. Chrest said that the natural slant of the roof will allow the solar panels to be installed without any additional beams to angle them toward the sun. Panels could be installed on the north half of the roof if extra funding is available. Heavens Helpers spends an average of $18,300 per year on electricity, including powering about 20 coolers and freezers. The solar panels will reduce electricity costs by 35%, saving the cafe around $6,400 annually. "We end up spending between $1,000 and $2,000 a month on electricity. A lot of that is just serving as many people as we can," Meier said. The cost savings will go toward making more meals for the community. Meier said the cafe serves about 210 meals a day, 30% more than it served around this time last year. Adding the solar panels will enable the cafe to keep up with that trend without a hit to its budget. The average cost for Heaven's Helpers to make a meal is $3.10. Chrest said the solar panels will enable the cafe to serve 2,000 more meals per year. Solar panels are a low-maintenance solution, according to Chrest. Snow buildup was an initial concern, but the heat from the panel units and the white roof will melt any snow from the panels. One of our initial questions is, would solar work for this business? The answers pointed to yes, she said. Heavens Helpers is not new to sustainability. Meier said the cafe recycles its food scraps to local farmers in exchange for beef to use at the cafe. Adding solar panels continues the cafe's efforts to be an environmental steward. Heavens Helpers doesn't qualify for tax credits because of its nonprofit status. Chamber EDC Leadership Bismarck-Mandan plans to start a fundraising campaign to raise money for the project, and will also apply for a Montana-Dakota Utilities grant that could be awarded next spring and provide extra funding. Community members can donate to the project through a GoFundMe campaign. Rex Tillerson, who served as secretary of state under former president Donald Trump, has testified against the former chair of Trumps inaugural committee There is definitely unfairness in our tax system KATIE PIERCE, Wheeler, Girls Soccer, Junior; Pierce scored four goals in a victory over New London. Pierce has a team-leading seven goals for the Lions this season. FINN O'KEEFE, Stonington, Girls Soccer, Freshman; OKeefe scored the winning goal in the final two minutes in a victory against East Lyme. OKeefe has seven goals for the Bears this season. SAMANTHA SACCO, Westerly, Girls Soccer, Senior; Sacco scored six goals in three Westerly wins. Two of the goals came in a win over Toll Gate, which was the first Division III loss of the season for the Titans. Sacco has 14 goals this season. ERIN VONHOUSEN, Chariho, Girls Cross Country, Junior; VonHousen finished first in her race at the Manhattan College Invitational. She turned in a time of 15:21 in the 2.4-mile race to become the first Chariho girl to win a varsity race at the event. Vote View Results As if the Prime Minister did not have enough to worry about, a row over thousands of jobs in the steel industry is blowing up just as an already bruising party conference gets under way. British Steel, which despite its name is Chinese-owned, has, according to Sky News, gone cap in hand to Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg asking for an urgent bailout likely to amount to hundreds of millions of pounds. The firm claims without emergency support its blast furnaces are unlikely to be viable due to the energy crisis. Under pressure: A row over thousands of jobs in the steel industry is blowing up just as Liz Truss faces a bruising party conference The business employs 4,000 people directly, paying higher than average wages in Red Wall areas including Scunthorpe, where voters' allegiance to the Conservatives may be tentative. Thousands more supply chain jobs could also be affected. Handing large amounts of taxpayer cash to a Chinese corporation in the current atmosphere would be inflammatory. In the Cameron and Osborne years, the Tories tried cosying up to Beijing, but the mood has been souring for some years, as relations have been strained because of the treatment of protesters in Hong Kong, and abuse of Uighur Muslims. Government is no longer relaxed about Chinese involvement in key sectors such as telecoms, nuclear energy or indeed steel. It hardly needs saying that the demand for financial help, from a company that boasted of its open chequebook when it took over British Steel three years ago, comes at a highly inopportune moment when the Government has been accused of fiscal irresponsibility in its mini-budget. As I warned at the time, the sale of British Steel to Jingye for around 50m in late 2019 was flawed from the start. The deal smacked of expediency: It conveniently avoided job losses in northern constituencies in the middle of Boris Johnson's election campaign. The suspicion was that the Chinese were buying a key asset on the cheap. At the time, Jingye's chairman Li Ganpo, a former Communist party official, turned on the treacle hose to full nozzle. He raved about a 'splendid future' in which British Steel would 'revitalise the glory' and 'impress the world!' 'Need funds? No problem. Jingye is here to invest.' Instead of taking that torrent of guff at face value, the then-government should have retained a golden share in British Steel and forced the Chinese to make legal undertakings on jobs, investment and supply-chain firms. As it is, ministers are in a bind. The steel industry, though much diminished, still employs 34,500 people directly and supports another 43,000 supply chain roles. Government could provide support, including help on high electricity costs, which were a problem long before the Ukraine war broke out. In 2019/20, for instance, UK producers were paying 62 per cent more than those in Germany. The industry has been asking government to help iron out the disparity for years. Steel in the UK could have a great future. Britain is well placed for net zero production thanks to our expertise in electric arc furnaces and carbon storage in the North Sea. Government projects will require 5.2m tons of steel over the next five years. Procurement from the UK instead of importing could boost the economy by up to 4billion. Trade regulators need to take a realistic, rather than a dogmatic free market approach to the dumping of cheap Chinese rebar, which they seem, belatedly, to have realised. The latest North Dakota coronavirus news: vaccine events, border rules, food aid and more. Drive-thru vaccine Sanford Health is hosting several drive-thru flu shot clinics at which the Pfizer bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine also will be available. The new bivalent shots provide protection against both the original version of the coronavirus and also the newest omicron variant mutants, the highly contagious BA.4 and BA.5. The booster is recommended for people 12 years and older at least two months after their last dose in the COVID-19 vaccine series. Shot events will be held at Sanford's clinic at 1809 E. Century Ave. in Bismarck from 12-6 p.m. this Wednesday, on Oct. 12, 19 and 26, and on Nov. 2. Vaccines will be administered through open vehicle windows or doors. All ages are welcome. Patients should stay in their vehicle and wear short-sleeve shirts. Any children in the vehicle who will be vaccinated should be dressed in a diaper or shorts. Appointments and face masks are recommended. Patients can schedule an appointment by going to My Sanford Chart or by calling their primary care provider. Border rules North Dakota politicians are pushing the Biden administration to end COVID-19 border restrictions now that Canada has done so. Canada on Saturday dropped coronavirus-related border restrictions, including a vaccine requirement for people entering the country. U.S. Sens. Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven, R-N.D., both issued statements last week calling on President Joe Biden to make a similar move for travelers coming south across the border. "North Dakota, especially our border towns, rely on commerce and visitors from our neighbors to the north," Cramer said. Hoeven also pressed for a resumption of prepandemic hours at land ports of entry in North Dakota, as did Gov. Doug Burgum. Burgum joined Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte and the premiers of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta in a letter urging President Joe Biden and Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to restore prepandemic hours of operation at the U.S.-Canada ports. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently decided to expand operating hours at three of 10 ports in North Dakota -- Maida, Northgate and Sherwood. Mobile food pantry Trucks carrying fresh vegetables, bakery items and boxed goods will make a stop in Rugby this week. Food through the Great Plains Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry is available at no cost to those in need. The scheduled stop in Rugby is from 3:45-5 p.m. Wednesday, at the NAPA/Envision parking lot, 2819 U.S. Highway 2 W. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/3lkvv80. Testing and vaccines A comprehensive list of free public COVID-19 testing offered in North Dakota can be found at health.nd.gov/covidtesting. That site also lists where free at-home test kits are being offered. People can go to https://www.ndvax.orgor https://bit.ly/3N3IMxb or call 866-207-2880 to see where COVID-19 vaccine is available near them. County-level COVID-19 risks determined by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can be found at https://bit.ly/3Clifrq. Guidance and resources for businesses are at https://bit.ly/3w0DpKj. General information is at https://www.health.nd.gov/diseases-conditions/coronavirus and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. Consumer goods giant Unilever is heading for a clash with rival Reckitt Benckiser in its hunt for a new boss after the chief executives of both firms announced their exit within weeks of one another. The FTSE 100 companies, two of the biggest on the London stock market, will be fishing in the same pool for talent with both sizing up senior executives from L'Oreal and Procter & Gamble. Unilever announced last week that Alan Jope would step down after less than four years at the helm. All change: Unilever announced that Alan Jope would step down after less than four years at the helm His departure follows a tumultuous year in which the company which owns global brands such as Dove infuriated investors with its bungled attempt to buy GSK's consumer healthcare business. The firm also incurred the wrath of fund manager Terry Smith, who accused it of losing its focus on profit. At Reckitt, Laxman Narasimhan quit to become chief executive at coffee chain Starbucks. British firms face fierce competition to lure top executives as US corporations typically offer far more lucrative rewards. Unilever has invited City investors to a strategy day in December, which could allow internal candidates to prove themselves. Martin Deboo, consumer goods expert at broker Jefferies, said Hanneke Faber, who runs Unilever's nutrition division, and Fernando Fernandez, who looks after beauty and wellbeing products, are regarded as potential candidates. Unilever and Reckitt may try to poach from each other. Deboo said Reckitt executives Kris Licht and Volker Kuhn could be on the list of target candidates for Unilever. Brazilians voted on Sunday in the first round of their countrys most polarized election in decades, with leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva favored to beat right-wing incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. There were reports of long, snaking lines across Brazil as many turned out to vote in a tense election, punctuated by episodes of violence and fears over a sharp uptick in gun ownership under Bolsonaro. Military police in Sao Paulo said a man entered a voting station in the Cidade Dutra neighborhood and fired at two police officers. The officers are conscious and receiving medical attention, they wrote on Twitter. Most opinion polls have shown Lula with a 10-15 percentage point lead, but Bolsonaro has signaled he may refuse to accept defeat, stoking fears of institutional crisis. If Lula wins over 50% of valid votes, which several pollsters show within reach, he would clinch an outright victory, foregoing a run-off. Wearing a Get Out Bozo shirt, Rio de Janeiro resident Anna Luisa, 70, said she was voting for Lula for the first time. I have to take down Bolsonaro, she said, citing his homophobia and his stance over Brazils 1964-85 military dictatorship, which Bolsonaro has long supported. Beloved by his fans, Lula is also loathed by many Brazilians for his graft conviction. Bolsonaro often refers to him as the inmate. The leftist, who was president from 2003 to 2010, was jailed during the last election. But his conviction was later overturned by the Supreme Court, allowing him to face his rival Bolsonaro this year. Voting in Sao Bernardo do Campo, Lula acknowledged the dramatic turnaround in his fortunes after a conviction that he says was politically motivated. Its an important day for me, he said. Four years ago I couldnt vote because I was the victim of a lie I want to try to help my country to return to normal. Bolsonaro voted in Rio, and said he expected to win the election in Sundays first round, despite his poor showing in surveys. The former army captain does not trust the pollsters, saying their results do not correspond with the support at his campaign events. If we have clean elections, we will win today with at least 60% of the votes, Bolsonaro said in a social media video. All the evidence we have is favorable to us. A winner could be announced within hours after polling stations close at 5 p.m. Brasilia time (2000 GMT). If no candidate wins over half of the votes, excluding blank and spoiled ballots, the top two go to an Oct. 30 run-off. Bolsonaro has threatened to contest the result of the vote, after making baseless allegations of fraud, accusing electoral authorities of plotting against him and suggesting the military should conduct a parallel tally, which they declined to do. CONGRESS Brazilians are also voting on Sunday for all 513 members of the lower chamber of Congress, a third of the 81 members of the Senate and state governors and legislatures. Though Lula leads the presidential race, Bolsonaros conservative coalition is expected to hold a majority in both chambers of Congress. That could present challenges for the leftist to govern a country with rising hunger, high unemployment and an uneven recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Lula and Bolsonaro have both promised more generous welfare spending next year, adding to pressure on the federal budget. The newly established autonomy of Brazils central bank and Lulas choice of a centrist former rival as running mate have reassured some investors that he would not trigger a disruptive break in economic policy. Lula has vowed to make a sharp departure from Bolsonaros environmental policies after deforestation in the Amazon rainforest hit a 15-year high. Lula has pledged to combat logging, step up protection of the biome and local tribes, and make Brazil a protagonist in climate diplomacy. As in past elections, Brazils military has been mobilized to heighten security at some 477,000 polling stations, using electronic voting machines that allow for swift tabulation of results by the national electoral authority (TSE). Following Bolsonaros criticisms of Brazils voting systems, the TSE invited a record number of foreign election observers, including first-time missions from U.S. observers at the Carter Center and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). SOURCE. REUTERS Thousands of Russians mobilised for military service in Ukraine have been sent home and the military commissar in Russias Khabarovsk region removed in the latest setback to President Vladimir Putins chaotic conscription of 300,000 servicemen. On the battlefield, Putin suffered a stinging setback on Sunday with Ukrainian forces claiming full control of Russias eastern logistics hub of Lyman, their most significant gain in weeks. Russias first mobilisation since World War Two, after its forces suffered major battlefield defeats in Ukraine, has led to widespread discontent and forced thousands of men to flee abroad. Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russias Far East, said several thousand men had reported for enlistment in 10 days but many were ineligible. About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service, Degtyarev said in a video post on the Telegram messaging app. He said the regions military commissar was removed but that his dismissal would not affect the mobilisation. The mobilisation was billed as enlisting those with military experience but has often appeared oblivious to service records, health, student status and even age. The taking of Lyman by Ukrainian forces sets the stage for further advances aimed at cutting Russias supply lines to its battered troops to a single route. Days earlier, Putin proclaimed the annexation of four regions covering nearly a fifth of Ukraine, an area that includes Lyman. Kyiv and the West have condemned the proclamation as an illegitimate farce. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the capture of the town, where Ukrainian flags were raised over civic buildings on Saturday, demonstrated that Ukraine was capable of dislodging Russian forces and showed the impact Ukraines deployment of advanced Western weapons was having on the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the success of the countrys soldiers was not limited to Lyman and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Washington was very encouraged by Ukrainian gains. Russias defence ministry said on Saturday it was pulling troops out of the Lyman area in connection with the creation of a threat of encirclement. It did not mention Lyman in its daily update on Sunday, although it said Russian forces had destroyed seven artillery and missile depots in the Ukrainian regions of Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Mykolaiv and Donetsk. ABSORBING REGIONS The recapture of Lyman by Ukrainian troops is Russias largest battlefield loss since Ukraines lightning counteroffensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region in September. Control over Lyman could prove a key factor in helping Ukraine reclaim lost territory in the Luhansk region, its governor, Serhiy Gaidai, said. Lyman commands a crossing of the Siverskyi Donets River, behind which Russia has been attempting to consolidate its defences, Britains Ministry of Defence said. Thanks to the successful operation in Lyman we are moving towards the second north-south route and that means a second supply line will be disrupted, said reserve colonel Viktor Kevlyuk at Ukraines Centre for Defence Strategies think tank. In that case, the Russian group in Luhansk and Donetsk could only be supplied strictly through (Russias) Rostov region, Kevlyuk told media outlet Espreso TV. Ukraines military said early on Monday Russian forces had used missiles, air strikes and artillery in attacks on 35 settlements in the previous 24 hours. Ukraines air force had attacked a command post, weapons caches and an anti-aircraft missile complex, as well as bringing down one helicopter, one attack aircraft and eight drones, it said. The governor of the Zaporizhzhia region, said Russian forces had attacked Zaporizhzhia city and nearby villages overnight, with at least 10 missiles. Reuters could not independently verify battlefield reports. The areas Putin claimed as annexed just over seven months into Russias invasion of its neighbour Donetsk and Luhansk plus Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south are equal to about 18% of Ukraines total surface land area. Russias parliament is to consider on Monday bills and ratification treaties to absorb the regions, the speaker of the lower house of parliament said. A pomp-filled Kremlin signing ceremony with the regions Russian-installed leaders on Friday failed to stem a wave of criticism within Russia of how the military operation is being handled. Putin ally Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Russias southern Chechnya region, on Saturday called for a change of strategy right up to the declaration of martial law in the border areas and the use of low-yield nuclear weapons. The United States says it would respond decisively to any use of nuclear weapons. Other hawkish Russian figures on Saturday criticised generals and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on social media for overseeing the setbacks but stopped short of attacking Putin. SOURCE: REUTERS The state Department of Transportation is holding a public meeting Thursday on two road projects in the Bismarck region. The meeting is on the Seventh Street and Ninth Street projects between Bismarck Expressway and Front Avenue. The work consists of asphalt mill and overlay, curb ramp replacement, sidewalks, lighting, and traffic signal removal. The meeting is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Wachter Middle School cafeteria auditorium, 1107 S. Seventh St. It will be an open house format with no formal presentations. Questions or requests for hard copies of materials can be directed to Chris Dahl, 701-367-5283 or chris.dahl@bolton-menk.com. People who need to request special accommodations should contact Heather Christianson, DOT Civil Rights Division, at 701-328-2978 or civilrights@nd.gov. TTY users may use Relay North Dakota at 711 or 1-800-366-6888. I agree with the program I don't agree with the program I like the idea, but feel the current proposal is too broad Let me park where I want! Vote View Results More than 1 million Minnesotans have qualified for bonus checks to frontline workers to recognize their work during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the payments will be for less than $500 After one of the most violent weekends in recent memory . . . The homicide count is hovering near #130 at the outset of October. Tragically, the historic pace of local murders also impacts the innocent . . . A horrific update to a recent mass shooting spate of gunfire signals a worsening crisis that so far has been mostly ignored by local political leadership. The basics . . . The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department says a baby girl has died nearly a week after she was critically injured in a triple shooting. Police were called to the area near East 26th Street and Hardesty Avenue at about 1:45 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 27 to investigate a report of gunshots in the area, and while officers were on the way, the call was updated to a shooting. Police found three victims inside a home. Authorities said one adult died at the scene. A second adult was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Police said a child under the age of 5 was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Police said Monday that the young child who was shot succumbed to her injuries at the hospital on Sunday. She has been identified as 2-month-old Desiree Bowden. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . The child critically injured in last week's triple shooting has died, she's been identified as a 2-month-old girl The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department says a baby girl has died nearly a week after she was critically injured in a triple shooting. Police were called to the area near East 26th Street and Hardesty Avenue at about 1:45 p.m. on Monday, Sept. Kansas City baby dies from injuries in triple shooting KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A two-month-old baby has died from her injuries following a shooting last week. Kansas City Police said Desiree Bowden died following a shooting at 25th and Hardesty Monday afternoon. Davon Bowden, 27, also died in the shooting. A third victim was injured in the shooting, but is expected to survive. Developing . . . Campaign season fundraising continues in earnest and right now we share a glimpse at local power players and rising stars making the most of the beautiful Autumn weather and meeting the crowd. Activist Justice Horn chronicled the event and not only captured a fun moment with Rep. Sharice Davids but also was up close & personal with some of the top ranking politicos in this town including Mayor Q, Exec Frank White and Missouri State Senator Greg Razor amongst others . . . Here's what he had to say about today's gathering . . . Representation is powerand no one better understands that than the @VictoryFund ! Thank you for gathering Missouri and Kansas LGBTQ+ elected officials, candidates, and community members around the urgency of electing LGBTQ+ folks to all levels of government. When our community is united, theres nothing that can stand against us. We also noticed council contender Crissy Dastrup in the crowd as her KCMO 4th District contest heats up. Developing . . . Quick question . . . WOULD YOU HAND OVER THE TITLE OF YOUR HOME FOR A TAX BREAK WORTH A FEW HUNDRED BUCKS??? Didn't think so. And so . . . Today The Star publishes a completely misinformed and myopic editorial that addresses "gentrification" on a philosophical level from the comfort of a sofa somewhere in Johnson County. There are two ways to look at this one . . . The Kansas City Star has become so lazy and detached that they don't bother to research how the schemes they publicize REALLY work. Or . . . This plan is just another trap confronting po'folk . . . Even the most cynical person wouldn't ask somebody to hand over their home title to a newly formed group of political activists and private/public operatives. Maybe . . . Just maybe . . . If locals REALLY wanted property tax relief they might look to elected officials in Jackson County who have presided over this negligent disaster. One last thing . . . Go ahead and call it a conspiracy but this misconception and misinformation regarding Jackson County property taxes is so blatant that it feels like an ambush. The current political epoch has taught us that ANYTHING is possible and maybe, just maybe . . . The newspaper doesn't have as much sympathy for people being "displaced" as they contend. Sadly . . . Moving poor people out of the way of "progress" is the story of human history and the progressive newspaper might be helping this effort given that desperate people often fall prey to useful idiots. As always, in fairness, let's check the "White Guilt Daily" for their handout pitch . . . The program, to be administered by the Westside Redevelopment Corporation, is just such an innovation. The complicated program allows homeowners to take advantage of tax caps and abatements in return for commitments to make small annual investments in maintaining their property. Some residents can get financial help with those projects through whats called a neighborhood support fee, paid by participants. That, too, is important. So is transparency and oversight: even some residents are worried about where all the money will go. The City Council must have regular reports, and full access to the corporations records, as the program is implemented. To make the program work, the City Council had to declare the West Side area -- generally I-670 to 31st, State Line to Broadway/Southwest Boulevard/Summit -- as blighted. It is that, at least in some places. But there are many blighted neighborhoods in Kansas City. If those residents see major tax increases, and demand similar treatment, the cost to various public budgets could grow exponentially. Thats why the City Council must keep a close eye on the outcome of the plan, and consider reasonable guidelines before similar programs are started elsewhere. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Gov. Doug Burgum, along with North Dakota officials and business representatives, are on a weeklong trade and investment mission in Japan to highlight the state's trade, investment and business opportunities. Burgum provided a presentation to the Japan External Trade Organization while promoting North Dakota during a reception with Japanese businesses at the U.S. ambassador's residence in Tokyo. The 35-member trade delegation includes state Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring, officials from the North Dakota Trade Office, North Dakota Department of Commerce, Governors Office, Bank of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, University of North Dakota and representatives from about a dozen state companies involved in agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology and aerospace. Japan is an important trade partner for North Dakota and a key strategic ally for our nation, Burgum said in a statement. This trade and investment mission aims to strengthen that relationship and support our citizens by identifying new markets for North Dakota products and attracting investment and jobs to our state in a variety of sectors including agriculture, energy and technology. North Dakotas exports to Japan totaled $40.1 million last year, which marks it as one of the states top 10 export markets. Japan has been a longtime customer of several of our commodities, including high-quality spring wheat and food grade soybeans, Goehring said in a statement. We value the relationships we have built in Japan and look forward to future trade opportunities in this important market. The Burgum-Sanford administration has been working to strengthen those relationships, including meeting with industry leaders from the United States and Japan at the Midwest U.S.-Japan Associations 50th annual conference in July 2018 to promote trade and cooperation. Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford also met with members of the Japan External Trade Organization in August 2021 to discuss opportunities and partnership for investment in North Dakotas economy. Burgum's office could not immediately provide the cost of the trip or how it was funded. It's best not to assume much about this story but here are the basics for now . . . A statement from the district . . . "We want to make you aware that a Center High School teacher was placed on leave following allegations of inappropriate communication with a student. Upon notification, the teacher was placed on leave and the appropriate authorities were notified. At this time the Childrens Division of the Missouri Department of Social Services is investigating the allegations, and the district is fully cooperating. We understand that staff, students and parents want as much information as possible. We will share information with our school community when we are able, as we share your concern for the safety of our students." Center School District Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Kansas City area high school teacher under investigation KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A high school teacher in Kansas City is under investigation, accused of sending inappropriate messages to students. The teacher works at Center High School in the Center School District, located in south Kansas City. The district said it placed the teacher on administrative leave as it continues to investigate the allegations. Kansas City-area high school teacher placed on leave for alleged inappropriate text messages with a student A Kansas City-area high school teacher is on leave, and police and social services are investigating after allegations surfaced regarding inappropriate communication with a student. Center High School teacher under investigation for inappropriate messages KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Center High School teacher is under investigation for allegedly sending inappropriate messages to students. KSHB 41 News is not naming the teacher because he has not yet been charged, and the Center School District's investigation is not complete. Developing . . . Parks Canada says Scarborough's Rouge Beach is open after shoreline remediation work this summer to repair erosion damage. Work was delayed by nesting terns, which have since flown away. - Dan Pearce/Metroland Around 55,000 education workers in Ontario will be in a legal strike position in 17 days, the Canadian Union of Public Employees announced. This is Up and Down, where we give a brief thumbs up or thumbs down on the issues from the past week. Up A lot of area residents might not realize it, but Bismarck State College is the third-largest of the 11 institutions in the North Dakota University System. It's smaller only than the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and North Dakota State University in Fargo. And BSC continues to grow and advance its polytechnic mission. Its official fall enrollment grew nearly 6.3% this year, approaching 3,800 students. BSC's polytechnic mandate from the state Board of Higher Education is to boost bachelor of applied science degrees to assist with state workforce development initiatives. The school added 24 programs this year. And President Doug Jensen says prospective students see the value of the polytechnic education model and how it benefits them. Down Its disappointing that a miscommunication apparently led to a delay in hiring an outside firm to attempt to retrieve former Attorney General Wayne Stenehjems deleted emails. The Information Technology Department initially said the deleted emails could not be retrieved. But an investigation made public last week by State Auditor Josh Gallion and reporting by Forum News Service show that ITD did not bring in any outside firms to try to retrieve the emails. The department is now in the process of hiring a private firm, which is a necessary step. But the delay -- which is attributed to a miscommunication -- creates further suspicion among members of the public. The state needs to make every reasonable effort to salvage those emails and be transparent with the public about the process. Up Many North Dakotans have Scandinavian roots, and the annual Norsk Hostfest in Minot gives them a way to celebrate that heritage. The event also draws about 60,000 people each year and boosts the state's tourism industry. The event that's billed as the largest such festival in North America returned this year after a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic. It's another sign that even though the COVID-19 health threat continues, life is slowly returning to normal. Down The latest quarterly economic report from North Dakota State University indicates the outlook for the Bismarck metropolitan area is stuck in neutral. NDSU economics professor Jeremy Jackson says North Dakota's economy overall shows potential for growth despite the bleak national outlook, and he says the outlooks for the Fargo and Grand Forks metro areas are both positive. But not for the capital city. Total wages are expected to remain flat the rest of the year. Labor force growth appears to have peaked in the second quarter, with a slight decline predicted through the rest of 2022. And unemployment is expected to rise. Those aren't good signs, especially with the country as a whole possibly heading toward a recession. Threatening messages forced Konnech's chief executive, Eugene Yu and his family into hiding. (Emily Elconin/The New York Times) At an invitation-only conference in August at a secret location southeast of Phoenix, a group of election deniers unspooled a new conspiracy theory about the 2020 presidential outcome. Using threadbare evidence, or none at all, the group suggested that a small American election software company, Konnech, had secret ties to the Chinese Communist Party and had given the Chinese government backdoor access to personal data of about 2 million poll workers in the United States, according to online accounts from several people at the conference. In the ensuing weeks, the conspiracy theory grew as it shot around the internet. To believers, the claims showed how China had gained near complete control of Americas elections. Some shared LinkedIn pages for Konnech employees who have Chinese backgrounds and sent threatening emails to the company and its CEO, who was born in China. Sign up for The Morning newsletter from the New York Times Might want to book flights back to Wuhan before we hang you until dead! one person wrote in an email to the company. In the two years since former President Donald Trump lost his reelection bid, conspiracy theorists have subjected election officials and private companies that play a major role in elections to a barrage of outlandish voter fraud claims. But the attacks on Konnech demonstrate how far-right election deniers are also giving more attention to new and more secondary companies and groups. Their claims often find a receptive online audience, which then uses the assertions to raise doubts about the integrity of American elections. Unlike other election technology companies targeted by election deniers, Konnech, a company based in Michigan with 21 employees in the United States and six in Australia, has nothing to do with collecting, counting or reporting ballots in American elections. Instead, it helps clients such as Los Angeles County and Allen County, Indiana, with basic election logistics, such as scheduling poll workers. Konnech said none of the accusations were true. It said that all the data for its American customers were stored on servers in the United States and that it had no ties to the Chinese government. But the claims have had consequences for the firm. Konnechs founder and CEO, Eugene Yu, an American citizen who immigrated from China in 1986, went into hiding with his family after receiving threatening messages. Other employees also feared for their safety and started working remotely, after users posted details about Konnechs headquarters, including the number of cars in the companys parking lot. Ive cried, Yu wrote in an email. Other than the birth of my daughter, I hadnt cried since kindergarten. The company said the ordeal had forced it to conduct costly audits and could threaten future deals. It hired Reputation Architects, a public relations and crisis management company, to help navigate the situation. After the conspiracy theorists discovered that DeKalb County in Georgia was close to signing a contract with Konnech, officials there received emails and comments about the company, claiming it had foreign ties. The county Republican Party chair, Marci McCarthy, heard from so many members about Konnech that she echoed parts of the conspiracy theory at a public comment period during the countys elections board meeting. We have a lot of questions about this vendor, McCarthy said. The county signed the contract soon after the meeting. Its a completely fabricated issue, Dele Lowman Smith, the elections board chair, said in an interview. Its absolutely bizarre, but its part of the tone and tenor of what were having to deal with leading up to the elections. Although Konnech is a new target, the people raising questions about the company include some names notorious for spreading election falsehoods. The recent conference outside Phoenix was organized by True the Vote, a nonprofit founded by prominent election denier Catherine Engelbrecht. She was joined onstage by Gregg Phillips, an election fraud conspiracy theorist who often works with the group. The pair achieved notoriety this year after being featured in 2000 Mules, a widely debunked documentary claiming that a mysterious army of operatives influenced the 2020 presidential election. Engelbrecht and Phillips claimed at the conference and in livestreams that they investigated Konnech in early 2021. Eventually, they said, the groups team gained access to Konnechs database by guessing the password, which was password, according to the online accounts from people who attended the conference. Once inside, they told attendees, the team downloaded personal information on about 1.8 million poll workers. The pair said they had notified the FBI of their findings. According to their story, the agents briefly investigated their claim before turning on the group and questioning whether it had hacked the data. The FBIs press office said the agency does not comment on complaints or tips we may or may not receive from the public. Konnech said in a statement that True the Votes claim it had access to a database of 1.8 million poll workers was impossible because, among other reasons, the company had records on fewer than 240,000 poll workers at the time. And the records on those workers are not kept on a single database. The company said it had not detected any data breach, but declined to provide details about its technology, citing security concerns. Konnech once owned Jinhua Yulian Network Technology, a subsidiary out of China, where programmers developed and tested software. But the company said its employees there had always used generic dummy data created specifically for testing purposes. Konnech closed the subsidiary in 2021 and no longer has employees in China. Konnech sued True the Vote last month, accusing it of defamation, violation of the federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, theft and other charges. The judge in the case granted Konnechs request for an emergency temporary restraining order against the group, writing that Konnech faced irreparable harm and that there was a risk that True the Vote would destroy evidence. The order also required True the Vote to explain how it had supposedly gained access to Konnechs data. True the Vote, Engelbrecht and Phillips said they could not comment because of a restraining order issued against them. But in a livestream on social media, Engelbrecht said the allegations by Konnech were meritless. True the Vote looks forward to a public conversation about Konnechs attempts to silence examination of its activities through litigation, she said. Since the restraining order, True the Vote, Engelbrecht and Phillips have told Konnech a new version of their story, changing several important details. Phillips had explained in a podcast on Aug. 22 that my analysts had gained access to the data. But in a letter shared with Konnechs lawyers, the group claimed that a third party who was not contracted to us or paid by us had approached them, claiming it had Konnechs data. That person, who was unnamed except in a sealed court filing, presented only a screen share of certain elements of the data. They added that while the group had been provided with a hard drive containing the data, they did not view the contents, instead sharing it with the FBI. True the Vote has never obtained or held any data as described in your petition, they wrote. This is just one of many inaccuracies contained therein. The lawsuit did little to slow believers, who continued attacking Konnech. Some employees left the company, citing stress from the crisis, Yu said. The departures added to the workload among remaining staff just a few weeks before the midterm election. As True the Vote blanketed Konnechs customers with information requests last year, Yu sent an email to Engelbrecht offering his help. True the Vote released that email exchange, including his unredacted email address and phone number, and a trove of other documents related to the company. That gave conspiracy theorists an easy way to target Yu with threatening messages. He now calls the email he sent naive. As we did more research into who they were, it became more and more clear that they had no interest in the truth, he said. For them, the truth is inconvenient. 2022 The New York Times Company The Ministry of Labour is heightening its monitoring and investigative work in relation to c German Federal Minister of Defense Christine Lambrecht has paid a surprise visit to Ukraine and met with Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov. The relevant statement was made by the German Federal Ministry of Defense on Twitter, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. Defense Minister Lambrecht met her counterpart Oleksii Reznikov in Ukraine today. We will support our friends as long as necessary, the ministry wrote. Meanwhile, Reznikov noted on Twitter he had hosted his German colleague, Christine Lambrecht, in southern Ukraine. In his words, she brought good news and more tools to strengthen the Ukrainian Army. We had a discussion about current geopolitical and security situation. Minister was glad to talk with our soldiers and see Gepard system on combat duty, Reznikov wrote. According to RND, Lambrecht came to Odesa. During the air raid alert, she had to hide in a bomb shelter. Reznikov explained that Russians had fired Kalibr-type missiles, most likely from a ship, and asked the German side to provide air defense systems and anti-ship missiles. Lambrecht promised that the first air defense system, IRIS-T SLM, would be delivered to Ukraine in a few days. Ukraine is currently experiencing an incredible number of air strikes, and that is why it is so important that we provide even more support in terms of air defense. You can count on us in this regard, Lambrecht said. Lambrecht showed understanding for Kyivs demand that Russia be declared a terrorist state but did not agree directly. Instead, she stressed the need to discuss additional sanctions. The German minister also showed understanding for Ukraines NATO membership application. However, for such a procedure, certain requirements would have to be met, Lambrecht added. Meanwhile, Reznikov emphasized Ukraine would fight until all of its territories are liberated, including Crimea. Photo: German Federal Ministry of Defense mk The situation in the area of responsibility of Operational Command South remains dynamic and tense. Thats according to the Command press service, Ukrinform reports. "Our units continue their pro-active efforts, preserving the initiative in the secured territories and in further advance. They have partial success in the north (of the southern operational zone - ed.)," the statement reads. The Ukrainian Air Force carried out seven strikes against the enemy forces. A Russian Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter was shot down by Ukraines anti-aircraft defense in Beryslav district. Missile and artillery units performed more than 340 fire missions. Some 40 invaders were eliminated, while two tanks and seven armored combat vehicles were destroyed over the past day. As Ukrinform reported earlier, the Armed Forces of Ukraine destroyed seven tanks and up to ten military trucks in the Chernihivka district, Zaporizhia region. The Russian military death toll in Ukraine since the full-scale invasion has reached 60,110, which is 500 higher than the previous day. The Armed Forces of Ukraine killed about 60,430 Russian soldiers between February 24 and October 3, including 320 in the past day alone. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said this in a Facebook post, according to Ukrinform. Ukrainian defenders also destroyed 2,380 (+3) Russian tanks, 4,991 (+16) armored fighting vehicles, 1,405 (+0) artillery systems, 338 (+1) multiple rocket launchers, 176 (+0) air defense systems, 265 (+1) warplanes, 228 (+1) helicopters, 1,026 (+11) operational and tactical-level unmanned aerial vehicles, 246 (+0) cruise missiles, 15 (+0) warships/cutters, 3,811 (+15) trucks and tankers, and 131 (+0) pieces of specialized equipment. The Russian enemy suffered the greatest losses in the past day in the Kramatorsk and Donetsk directions, the General Staff said. The Armed Forces of Ukraine have repelled attacks by Russian invasion troops in the areas of Mayorsk, New York, Zaytseve, Nevelske, and Pobieda. Thats according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports citing an evening war update. "The enemy is trying to hold the temporarily captured ground, focusing its efforts on trying to disrupt the actions of Defense Forces in certain directions. The enemy is shelling the positions of our troops along the contact line, conducting aerial reconnaissance. It is striking the civilian infrastructure and civilian homes... There remains a threat of air and missile strikes across the entire territory of Ukraine," the update reads. It is noted that throughout the day, the invaders launched two missile and seven air strikes, as well as fired 35 times from MLR systems. More than 20 settlements were hit, including Dnipro, Zaporizhia, Bakhmut, Spirne, Maryinka, Soledar, Belogorivka, Blahodativka, and Zaliznychne. According to the General Staff, the situation in the Volyn and Polissia directions has seen no significant changes. At the same time, the invaders fired their tanks and artillery systems of various types in the following areas: in the Siversky direction in the area of Velika Pysarivka, Sumy region; in the Kramatorsk direction in the areas of Bilohorivka, Druzhelyubivka, Dvorichna, Rozdolivka and Yampil settlements; in the Bakhmut direction - near Soledar, Bakhmutske, Bakhmut, Mayorsk, and Vesele; in the Avdiivka direction - near Pervomaiske, Avdiivka, Krasnohorivka, Maryinka, and Vodiane. In the Novopavlivka and Zaporizhia areas, more than 30 settlements along the contact line were shelled, including Vuhledar, Mykilske, Vremivka, Hulyaipole, Hulyaipilske, and Zaliznychne. The enemy employed tanks, mortars, and barrel artillery. As noted, more than 25 settlements along the contact line were shelled in the South Buh direction. "According to the updated information, in the area of Kyrylivka, Donetsk region, up to 20 units of enemy military equipment were destroyed, while up to eight combat helicopters were seriously damaged," the General Staff reported. Read also: Russian war kills another journalist in Ukraine The Russian military and political leadership, in order to win more time for the preparation and combat coordination of mobilized personnel, made an "interesting decision": units deployed on the front lines are being replenished at the expense of operatives of security forces working in the temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk region. At the same time, administrative and policing work in the temporarily occupied areas will be entrusted to the Russian FSB units. Also in the update, the General Staff says the Ukrainian Air Force carried out 19 air strikes. It was confirmed that two enemy strongholds, 14 equipment clusters, as as well as three anti-aircraft missile systems were hit. In addition, air defense units shot down a Ka-52 helicopter and a Su-25 attack aircraft. "Missile and artillery forces hit four command and control points, 17 manpower and weapon clusters, two ammunition and materiel depots, two air defense systems, as well as 10 other important targets," the report reads. As of October 3, Russias military death toll in Ukraine has amounted to nearly 60,430. Photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba discussed the development of cooperation in digital transformation, IT, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals with Minister of Economy of Senegal Oulimata Sarr. At our meeting today, Senegals Minister of Economy Oulimata Sarr and I discussed ways to further facilitate trade between Ukraine and Senegal. We also focused on ways to develop cooperation in spheres of digital transformation, IT, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals, Kuleba posted on Twitter. As reported, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba is on the first-ever African tour in the history of Ukrainian diplomacy on October 3-12. It started with a visit to Senegal. Photo credit: Dmytro Kuleba, Twitter ol Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron have discussed Russia's nuclear blackmail. According to Ukrinform, Zelensky reported this on Facebook. "I talked with French President Emmanuel Macron. We discussed the importance of enhancing Ukraine's defense support. Touching on the topic of nuclear blackmail by Russia, we discussed the situation at the Zaporizhzhia NPP, its immediate demilitarization," Zelensky said. He thanked Macron for strongly condemning illegal referendums and attempts by the aggressor to annex Ukraine's regions. "We expect a strong reaction from the world regarding Russia's illegal actions, in particular via strengthening sanctions pressure," Zelensky said. Zelensky earlier thanked countries in Central and Eastern Europe for supporting Ukraine's accession to NATO. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Senegal Aissata Tall Sall as part of the first tour of African countries in the history of Ukrainian diplomacy. The ministers agreed to intensify mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine informs. "Within the framework of the African strategy, Ukraine deepens relations with the countries of the African continent. It is symbolic that the first stop on my African tour was Senegal, an important country that currently presides over the African Union. Together with my colleague Aissata, we agreed today to open a new chapter of mutually beneficial cooperation between Ukraine and Senegal," Kuleba said. In this context, the ministers discussed steps to intensify cooperation in the fields of IT, digitalization, cyber security, trade, and education. Senegals FM thanked the Government of Ukraine for organizing the safe evacuation of Senegalese students from war zones. Kuleba, in turn, expressed gratitude to Senegal for supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and emphasized the importance of intensifying efforts to protect the fundamental norms and principles of international law against the background of Russian aggression. "Russia attacked not only Ukraine. It wreaks havoc and supports military coups in Africa. We must join our efforts to stop this negative trend," Ukraines top diplomat emphasized. Kuleba also raised the issue of the negative impact of Russia's war against Ukraine on food security in Africa: "By destroying the agricultural infrastructure of Ukraine and blocking access to ports in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, Russia is trying not only to limit the main items of Ukrainian exports but also to deprive millions of Africans of access to vital Ukrainian food." In this context, the minister called on Senegal, as the chair of the African Union, to use its influence on Moscow to continue the operation of the Black Sea grain corridor which plays an important role in guaranteeing global food security. ol At the meeting with President of Senegal Macky Sall, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba expressed his hope for building mutually respectful and trustworthy relations between the countries. Following up on their dialogue with President Zelensky, I was received by President Macky Sall. Ukraine looks forward to building a mutually respectful and trustworthy relationship with Senegal. Grateful to Senegal for strongly supporting Ukraines territorial integrity, Kuleba posted on Twitter. As reported, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba is on the first-ever African tour in the history of Ukrainian diplomacy on October 3-12. It started with a visit to Senegal. ol Weeks after receiving an apology from the Oscars for the rude and threatening treatment she received at the 1973 awards show, Native American activist Sacheen Littlefeather is dead at 75. Littlefeather was sent by actor Marlon Brando to decline his Best Actor award and to deliver a speech on Native Americans' poor treatment by the motion picture industry. She was subjected to jeers and racist abuse by the audience. Producer Howard W. Koch threatened to have her arrested. Roger Moore, who presented the award, had to escort her off-stage to prevent her being physically attacked by avowed white supremacist John Wayne. She was also blacklisted, reports the BBC: French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne says that France will continue maintaining sanctions against Russia which unleashed military aggression against Ukraine and announced the annexation of part of Ukrainian territories. As an Ukrinform correspondent reports, Borne made a corresponding statement at the National Assembly, the lower house of the French Parliament, speaking about the war in Ukraine and its consequences for France. Borne emphasized that the sanctions would last as long as Russia continued the war. "Abandoning sanctions means abandoning Ukraine," she said, stressing that the main goal of sanctions remains to make the cost of war unbearable for Russia. Among them, the head of government named the banking, commercial, information and political sanctions imposed by the European Union and emphasized that the Russian economy had already shrunk significantly. Paying tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people, Borne noted that the Ukrainians had been resisting Russian aggression for seven months already, but never gave up and never bowed their heads. "Their courage is exemplary," she emphasized. The PM underscored that France did not recognize the results of sham referenda organized by Moscow and the attempted annexation of the occupied Ukrainian territories, noting that Russia "is burying itself in cynicism, threats and blackmail." She also mentioned the shocking crimes in Bucha and mass graves in Izyum, stressing: "We are determined that the crimes committed by Russia will be documented, prosecuted, and punished." The head of the government expressed extreme concern over the Russian military occupation of the Zaporizhzhia NPP and emphasized the importance of the IAEA mission. Regarding the energy crisis as a result of the war in Ukraine, Borne noted: "This war shows us the need to quickly ensure energy sovereignty and get rid of our dependence." In addition, the head of government said that France would support Ukraine in its reconstruction. "Today, the country's reconstruction needs are estimated at almost 350 billion euros. This is a colossal collective challenge, and France will make its contribution," Frances PM said. "I announce that we will organize an economic conference with the Ukrainian authorities in Paris in the coming months to mobilize French companies," she added. The head of government pledged France's steadfast support for Ukraine, recalling that since the beginning of the war, France, together with its allies and other European countries, has been increasing weapons and equipment supplies to Ukraine. "We must give Ukraine means for self-defense," she said. Borne emphasized that "Russia considered NATO to be weak and divided but united it again." She also mentioned the words of French President Emmanuel Macron who said that this war was a shared responsibility as a member of the European family had been attacked. "This war is not just a conflict between two countries. This war is a fight for our values. Putin himself admitted this last Friday: he is attacking our democratic model," the Prime Minister said. According to her, "this war is a solidarity lesson" for France and Europe. "The war in Ukraine will continue, but we are ready. The resistance of the Ukrainian people obliges us. We will be there. We will cope with it," concluded the head of the French government. ol The supreme lama of Kalmykia, Telo Tulku Rinpoche (Erdny Ombadykov), released a statement criticizing the war which Russia had unleashed on Ukraine, noting that the truth is on Ukraines side. The statement came in an interview with the Alchemy of the Soul YouTube channel, Ukrinform reports. "I think it's wrong, this war is unnecessary... The Ukrainian side is, of course, right they defend their country, their land, their truth, their Constitution, and their people. It is very difficult to suggest and accept that Russia is right... I can't do that," said the supreme lama of Kalmykia. Thelo Tulku Rinpoche emphasized that until now, he had not commented on the Russian war in Ukraine as he didnt want to spoil the relations between the authorities and our Buddhists." He also believes that the leaders of the Buddhist communities across the Russian Federation, who support military aggression, hardly actually think so if they are indeed true Buddhists. The supreme lama is currently in Mongolia, where he holds meetings with residents of Kalmykia, who fled Russia after the war began. In mid-June, Thelo Tulku Rinpoche, in an address on the occasion of the Buddha's birthday, already made an anti-war statement, but without specific reference to Ukraine. According to mass media, the statement by the supreme lama of Kalmykia is the first public speech of a major leader of a religious confession, widespread in Russia, who condemned military aggression. Previously, representatives of all traditional faiths in the Russian Federation Orthodoxy, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism supported Russias onslaught on Ukraine and called for prayerful support for those fighting against the Armed Forces of Ukraine. During her visit to Turkey, First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska met with the Azov Regiment commanders released from Russian captivity. "During my visit to Turkey, I had an opportunity to meet with our guys from Azov. They are here under the terms of exchange, and today Head of the Presidents Office Andriy Yermak managed to organize a meeting with their families. It was very emotional. The path toward this moment was long and difficult. Finally, they were able to hug," Zelenska posted on Telegram. The First Lady conveyed congratulations and gratitude to the fighters from Ukraine, the President and "all the people for whom they fight." "Important day. The main thing is that Ukraine fights and will fight for all our people. There are still many of them in Russian captivity men and women, military and civilians. And we need everyone. Alive," Zelenska emphasized. She also conveyed the blessings of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, whom she had met the day before in Istanbul, to the Ukrainian defenders and their families. In turn, Head of the Presidents Office Andriy Yermak, on behalf of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and personally, expressed gratitude and sincere respect to the Ukrainian military for their courage, bravery and resilience, the President's Office informs. He noted that no one would be able to fully understand the trials that the defenders of Azovstal went through, but this experience of captivity could be used to mitigate the fate of other Ukrainian prisoners of war. "We must release everyone who remains in Russian captivity and behind bars, everyone who was forcibly deported. You understand how important this is. People are the most valuable for Ukraine. And we are fighting hard for the return of every defender and every civilian," he said. The Head of the Presidents Office also emphasized the importance of organizing the rehabilitation of the released service members and their adaptation to normal life. Yermak noted that during the time the servicemen were in captivity, their families also had to go through extremely difficult trials, and they coped with them with dignity. "Your relatives fought for your release persistently. They have been waiting for you for so long," he said. He also emphasized that the families of the Azovstal defenders were fighting for the release of all those who were still in captivity. And these efforts are extremely important and deserve enormous respect. The Head of the Presidents Office wished the heroes a speedy recovery and expressed his belief that thanks to the courage and self-sacrifice of our soldiers and people, Ukraine will win and the commanders will be able to return to the homeland and reunite with their families. Until then, Ukraine, together with its partners, will take care of the safety of soldiers and their families. According to Yermak, the history of the defense of Mariupol and Azovstal steel works became for the whole world a testimony of the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people and will remain an example of indomitability for many generations of Ukrainians. "Mariupol became our Thermopylae. Like about the 300 Spartans, the whole world should know about the defense and tragedy of Mariupol. But the most important thing I always say is that the heroes must be alive," Yermak summed up. As reported, more than 200 Ukrainian defenders, as well as ten foreigners who fought on the side of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, returned from Russian captivity within the prisoner swap on September 21. The five freed Azov Regiment commanders will stay in Turkey under the personal security guarantees of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan until the end of the full-scale war. ol Synthetic drugs have moved well beyond the 1980s where the term "Designer Drugs" was coined to identify drugs like MDMA, China White and methamphetamines. A University of California San Francisco (UCSF) research team has design a compound that yields the benefits of LSD without the hallucinogenic effects. The compounds were designed to fit into the 5HT2a receptor, which is the main target of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin mushrooms. The receptor is also activated by serotonin, a naturally occurring hormone that regulates mood, cognition and many other functions in the body. The 5HT2a receptor is thought to play a role in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, as well as anxiety and depression, and a host of antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs block its activity. The new molecules activate it, but in a very different way than psychedelics. Recent studies have found that when given in combination with psychotherapy, one or two high doses of psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA can have significant long-term effects on depression, anxiety and PTSD. It's not known if the trip is essential to the treatment, or if drugs could be developed that alleviate symptoms without it. A Canadian maker of lithium-ion batteries plans to open a $75 million manufacturing plant in southern Chautauqua County that promises to employ 250 when fully staffed. Electrovaya, a publicly traded company based in Mississauga, Ont., said it had chosen a former manufacturing plant near Jamestown for the project. The facility will make cells and batteries for transportation and utility storage, and is expected to open in fall 2023. We wanted to find an area of the state that was local to us and that we could grow with, said John Gibson, the chief financial officer. Jamestowns a small town, but theres a lot of small Canadian towns that just need that small push in order to get them going. Electrovayas project will give the company its first U.S.-based plant, while reviving a dormant manufacturing facility in the Town of Ellicott. Heidenhain closed an electronics and optics factory at the site in 2018, eliminating about 40 jobs. Gibson said the facility, which contains clean rooms, perfectly suits Electrovayas needs. It requires very little in terms of upgrading to get ready for us to move in, he said. Essentially all were doing is purchasing equipment, having it commissioned and installed, and were off to the races. The facility has ample space to expand production as the market grows, and additional land if the company needs to add square footage, Gibson said. Plus, the facility is not far from Raymond Corp., a forklift maker and strategic partner based in Central New York. Electrovaya plans to hire for a variety of jobs, including production workers, engineers and managers. I think what we want to do is kind of put Jamestown on the map as a kind of hub for not only lithium ion batteries, but renewable energy, Gibson said. Were going to do our absolute best to promote the town and the surrounding area. Theres going to be a lot of jobs opening up there. The United States is about 90% of the total market for Electrovaya's products, he said. Opening a U.S. facility will allow the company to compete for sales that may have buy-American requirements attached to them, such as electric buses and trucks. This really opens the door for that side of the business, Gibson said. State officials hailed the project as an investment supporting New York State's goals to promote "clean tech" development. Empire State Development will provide up to $4 million Excelsior Jobs Tax credit program, which is tied to job creation at the plant. And the project will receive $2.5 million in Regional Council capital funding. It also has been granted low-cost hydropower from the New York Power Authority. Electrovaya expects it will be eligible for other state funds, as well as federal funding from various sources. In its most recent quarterly report, the company projected sales for its 2022 fiscal year, which wrapped up at the end of September, would be $21 million in U.S. dollars. Electrovaya projects that figure will rise to $44 million in its current, 2023 fiscal year. The Chautauqua County plant will mark a significant step for a company that has been around since 1996, Gibson said. Theres been a lot of battery companies that have come and gone, but weve managed to stay around, stay relevant, and weve got no intentions on slowing down anytime soon," he said. "This isnt, lets roll the dice and come in and see what we can do over the next couple of years. This is, were coming here and putting our footprint in Jamestown. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The Czech Republic has filled its gas storage facilities to 89%, accumulating more than 3 billion cubic meters of gas, Minister of Industry and Trade Jozef Sikela said on Monday PRAGUE (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2022) The Czech Republic has filled its gas storage facilities to 89%, accumulating more than 3 billion cubic meters of gas, Minister of Industry and Trade Jozef Sikela said on Monday. "Despite the fact that Russia no longer supplies gas to the Czech Republic, we managed to fill underground gas storage facilities (UGS) by 89% and they now contain more than 3 billion cubic meters of gas. In particular, 150 million cubic meters of gas were pumped into UGS in September," Sikela said at a press conference. The Czech Republic currently receives gas from Norway, as well as through liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals in Belgium and the Netherlands. Overall, gas consumption in the country decreased by 18% in the first eight months of this year, according to the minister. Petr Tresnak, deputy head of the ministry, noted that the department sets an example for others in saving gas and electricity. "The temperature has been reduced to 19-21 degrees Celsius (66-69 degrees Fahrenheit) within the ministry buildings, while toilets, warehouses and corridors are no longer heated at all. The water is heated to a maximum of 45 degrees Celsius. With these measures we managed to reduce gas consumption by 20% and electricity by 13% in September," Tresnak said. The European Union has been facing a massive energy crisis and struggling to fill its gas reserves in time for the heating season due to the sanctions imposed on Russia after it launched a military operation in Ukraine on February 24. The sanctions and the military operation resulted in significant disruptions in supply chains and a spike in energy prices worldwide. The new heating season in Europe is due to start in mid-October, although last year it was pushed until November. Washington, Oct 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :US Secretary of State Antony Blinken begins a tour of Latin American countries on Monday in Colombia, at a time when several key regional allies have recently elected leftist presidents. The trip by the top US diplomat, whose country has been more focused in recent times on Asia and on the war in Ukraine, appears aimed partly at addressing any concerns of US neglect for its hemispheric allies. After Colombia, Blinken will travel to Chile and Peru. His trip begins a day after a hard-fought first-round election in Brazil, where voters faced a stark contrast between far-right President Jair Bolsonaro and leftist challenger and former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. It will go to a runoff October 30 after Bolsonaro did surprisingly well against the heavily favored Lula. Despite speculation that Bolsonaro might not accept an electoral defeat, Blinken said Sunday that the United States shares "Brazil's confidence that the second round will be conducted in the same spirit of peace and civic duty." Blinken's tour also comes on the heels of a prisoner exchange between the US and Venezuela, reflecting a cautious warming between the two despite the fact that Washington has never recognized the disputed 2018 re-election of Nicolas Maduro as president. "We have never had stronger relations with this hemisphere," Brian Nichols, US assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere Affairs, told journalists on Friday. "We are not judging countries based on where they fall on the political spectrum but rather their commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and human rights," he said. In Bogota on Monday and Tuesday, Blinken -- making his second visit to Colombia as secretary of state -- will meet with President Gustavo Petro, who in early August became the country's first leftist president. Aides said the two are expected to discuss drug trafficking and its impact on security, health and the environment, as well as migration. US officials have called Colombia's protection of migrants fleeing poverty and unrest in Venezuela a "model for the region."In August, when Petro took office, American officials said they were prepared to hold "open and honest" discussions with him on the US-backed war against drugs. That effort has failed, Petro has said, calling instead for efforts to reduce cocaine demand in developed countries. Colombia, which has suffered through decades of civil war fueled in part by drug trafficking, is the world's leading producer of cocaine, and the US is its principal market. PortauPrince, Oct 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :At least seven people in Haiti have died from cholera, authorities said Sunday, raising fresh fears of a resurgent epidemic in the crisis-wracked Caribbean nation. Nearly three years after Haiti's last confirmed cholera case, the country's health ministry on Sunday said multiple suspected cases had been detected in the capital, Port-Au-Prince, as well as the coastal neighborhood of Cite Soleil. At a press conference Sunday afternoon, Laure Adrien, director general of Haiti's public health ministry, said that seven or eight people had already died. "Most of the victims died in the communities and could not go to hospitals," he said. Adrien called for roadblocks, erected throughout the country in a protest against recent gas price hikes, to be lifted so that the infected could access health facilities or be reached by ambulances. Protests and looting have rocked the already unstable country since September 11, when Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced a fuel price hike, saying subsidies were too expensive for one of the world's poorest states. The health ministry said in an earlier statement that measures were being taken to limit the spread of the virus, including investigation of other possible cases, while calling for the country to practice increased hygiene precautions. Introduced by United Nations workers after Haiti's calamitous 2010 earthquake, cholera went on to kill around 10,000 people. The first viral infections were detected around the Artibonite River, where UN peacekeepers had dumped fecal matter, before spreading throughout the country. It was not until August 2016 that the UN officially recognized its role in the epidemic's start. The last positive case before Sunday was detected in 2019, and in February 2022 the Ministry of Public Health held a ceremony to mark the official elimination of cholera in the country. Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has served as the nation's acting leader since the assassination of its president in July 2021, said at the event: "This February 4 represents a model of political and civic commitment, which will remain a memorable date in the annals of public health history." (@ChaudhryMAli88) ISTANBUL, Oct 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :The UN mission in Afghanistan on Monday said the number of deaths from Friday's suicide bombing in Kabul climbed to 43. "Human toll from Friday's college bombing in Hazara neighborhood of Afghan capital continues to rise," United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a brief statement, adding 43 were killed while 83 others were wounded. A suicide bomber blew himself up at an educational center in Kabul, killing at least 19 people and injuring 28 more last Friday morning. The suicide bomber targeted students at the Kaaj educational institution in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighborhood at 7:30 a.m. local time (0300GMT). The students were taking their examinations. "Girls and young women (are) the main victims," UNAMA said today. The UN mission feared that casualty figures were "likely to rise further" while the verification process by UNAMA human rights teams in Kabul continued on the fourth day of the tragedy. (@FahadShabbir) Montreal, Oct 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Oct, 2022 ) :Canada's French-speaking Quebec province went to the polls Monday after a heated election campaign expected to return the right-wing governing party to power in a landslide after pushing claims that immigration threatens its unique culture. More than six million people were eligible to cast a ballot, with polls scheduled to close at 8:00 pm (0000 GMT). Voter Alain Gravel, 55, told AFP his ballot choice was swayed mostly by concerns about the economy and asylum seekers slipping into Canada from the United States -- a trend which surged in 2017 during Donald Trump's presidency, sparking an outcry, and peaked this year at more than 23,000, so far. Nearly all of those migrants were intercepted by police in Quebec. "We need to clean up public spending," Gravel said. "Also we absolutely have to find a way to plug breaches in the border as we know that many migrants are exploiting those." The political discourse in Quebec has shifted in recent years away from the notion that once dominated, that of splitting the province from the rest of Canada -- which was twice rejected in referendums in 1980 and 1995 -- making way for fresh ideas. Four years ago, former multimillionaire businessman Francois Legault succeeded in his bet to introduce a "third way" in Quebec politics. Neither separatist nor federalist, the founder of the country's third largest airline, Air Transat, pitched to Quebecers a "business" approach to politics coupled with Quebec nationalist values. This round, identity politics once again stirred controversy in the campaign with the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ), a motley right-wing Quebec nationalist party led by current Premier Legault, making sensational declarations blaming immigrants in part for the decline of the French language in the province. It would be "a bit suicidal" to take in more newcomers given the language situation, said Legault, who had also previously linked violence and immigration. Such fears are based on the latest census data which found that the proportion of Quebec's population that speaks French most often at home has been on the decline since 2001, falling from 81.1 percent to 77.5 percent last year. Experts, however, point out the data doesn't take into account people who are fluent in French but it's not their mother tongue. - Low turnout expected - As voting booths opened early Monday only a handful of people trickled in to an election station in a downtown Montreal gymnasium. By midday, officials estimated the turnout at just over 29 percent. Angele Hebert, 22, voting for only the second time in her life, lamented the low turnout, saying she was saddened to see "that only half of the population who can vote, votes." "If few people vote, the election result will give less legitimacy to the government," she added. According to Elections Quebec, nearly one quarter of eligible voters had already cast advance ballots -- a record number. "Even though the result seems to be a foregone conclusion, it's still important to vote," commented Adam Sanger, who at 20 was casting a ballot for the first time. The CAQ was credited with nearly 38 percent of voting intentions in the latest surveys. Its main rival, the Quebec Liberal Party, is expected to garner about 17 percent of the vote, which would be the worst result ever for the party that ruled Quebec for nearly 15 years prior to 2018. Other opposition parties have trailed far behind with the exception of the separatist Parti Quebecois, which is expected to hold onto a few seats in the province's national assembly despite a steady decline in its support over the past decade. The election results are expected Monday night. (@FahadShabbir) The Indian Charge d' Affaires (Cd'A) in Islamabad was called to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday and conveyed the Government of Pakistan's serious concerns over the deteriorating health condition of Hurriyat leader Altaf Ahmed Shah, who has been incarcerated at the infamous Tihar Jail for the last five years ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :The Indian Charge d' Affaires (Cd'A) in Islamabad was called to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday and conveyed the Government of Pakistan's serious concerns over the deteriorating health condition of Hurriyat leader Altaf Ahmed Shah, who has been incarcerated at the infamous Tihar Jail for the last five years. The Cd'A was told that the Indian authorities' failure to provide adequate medical care to Altaf Ahmed Shah, who had been diagnosed with renal cancer, was extremely disappointing. As a result of that negligence, Shah's condition was worsening as the cancer was spreading to other parts of his body. It was noted with deep regret that despite repeated appeals by the family of Altaf Ahmed Shah, including letters addressed to the Indian prime minister, no action had been taken with regards to his health condition. The Indian government's callousness was evident from the fact that Altaf Shah had still not been hospitalized. Despite the doctor's advice to arrange his diagnostic tests urgently in order to assess the extent of the disease, the tests were carried out after inordinate delays. "It is deplorable that the Indian authorities continue to deny Shah's family the permission to meet him. The court hearing of his bail plea on humanitarian grounds is also being delayed. It is evident that Mr. Shah is being victimized and punished for being the son-in-law of revered Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani," it was stated. The Cd'A was told to convey to the Government of India, Pakistan's demand that Altaf Ahmed Shah be immediately provided medical attention and released from prison. The Government of India had also been urged to desist from targeting the true representatives of the Kashmiri people by means of illegal incarcerations and mischievous implications in fictitious cases in a bid to stifle the voice of the Kashmiri people. HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :The Vice Chancellor Sindh Agriculture University TandoJam Dr. Fateh Marri has said that besides higher education, the youth of the country should develop skills in other fields for high competitive examinations. He said the world is developing rapidly, therefore after getting higher education, the youth should acquire professional and language skills instead of wasting time searching for government jobs so that they could find a place in the national and international market. The Vice Chancellor expressed these remarks while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the "Finishing School Workshop (FSW)" phase-II, for final year students of the university, which was organized by Sindh Agriculture University in collaboration with Sindh Higher Education Commission Karachi. He said that the university has started a finishing school workshop with the objective to train its students during their education, in which they are being imparted training in professional skills, job skills, and language skills. The Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Aijaz Ali Khooharo in his speech said that the aim of universities should not only be to produce graduates, but to produce leaders in all fields. He informed tht the university has set up research centers for modern academic methods as well as business incubation centers to provide better business opportunities to the students. Besides, the university has also established gender resource centers for gender equality, he added. The Chairperson of FSW Dr. Shabana Sartaj Tunio said that during the second phase of the training workshop, the trainers will enhance the capacity building of the students of the university regarding English language, communication, virtual communication, social media awareness, micro-credit policy, entrepreneurship, CSS, PCS, IELTS, TOEFL, and GRE. The workshop has been organized for more than 30 students of final year, she added. The inaugural session of the workshop has also been attended among others by Prof. Inam Bhatti of Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Dr. Syed Ghiyasuddin Shah Rashidi, Dean, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal, Dean Faculty of Crop Protection, Dr. Manzoor Ali Abro, Dean Faculty of Crop Protection, Dr. Aijaz Soomro, Dr. Mir Sajjad Talpur and Dr. Ghulam Mujtaba Khushik. A delegation of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) led by Deputy Director Office of Emergency Programmes (EMOPS), Lana Wreikat on Monday visited tent city established by district administration for rain and flood affectees at Veterinary University here NAWABSHAH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :A delegation of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) led by Deputy Director Office of Emergency Programmes (EMOPS), Lana Wreikat on Monday visited tent city established by district administration for rain and flood affectees at Veterinary University here. Lana Wreikat inspected the facilities being provided to the flood affectees there and also collected information in this regard. Briefing the UNICEF team, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shahryar Gul Memon said that district administration had established relief camps and tent cities for flood victims in different areas of district. He said that at Veterinary University's tent city comprises 300 tents, which has accommodated over 300 flood victim families. He said that tent city residents were being provided dry ration, potable water, health and other necessary facilities while a tent school is also set up for the flood affected children with the support of UNICEF and Social Welfare Organization Hands. The visiting team of UNICEF expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for flood victims at the tent city. UNICEF team assured to continue its all possible cooperation for mother and child health and continuity in children education. On the occasion District Education Officer Qurban Ali Rahu, Additional District Health Officer Dr Asadullah Dahri, Dr Riaz Shah, Mansaoor Memon of Social Welfare Organization Hands and other briefed UNICEF team about ongoing facilities of health, sanitation, education, potable water and others at the tent city. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ISLAMABAD, Oct 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad in collaboration with National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA) will celebrate World Space Week 2022 from October 4 to 10 at its Islamabad campus. According to the IST, the annual week long space festivity encapsulates over 100 events, related to space science, technology and its applications. The celebrations are in pursuance of United Nations declaration of October 4 to10 as international week of space aimed at celebrating, and acknowledging the contributions of Space Technology towards betterment of humankind. It is the largest annual space event of the world aimed to build up the workforce of tomorrow by inspiring students and educating the public about multifaceted domains of space. Pakistan is one of the major contributors in the WSW space festivities, the national activities are held under the patronage of SUPARCO. Institute of Space Technology has been celebrating World Space Week since 2005 in line with its vision "Be a National torchbearer in the realm of academics, through quality teaching, robust research and outreach, to produce leaders in the field of Space Science and Technology, in line with National aspirations". IST organizes a wide range of events to motivate and inspire young minds towards the realms of Space Technology around the year through its Space Education Research Lab, under the National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA). Channelizing these efforts of space education and outreach through innovative and engaging initiatives at the national level, World Space Week 2022 will be celebrated at IST from October 4-10. In accordance with the WSW 2022 theme of "Space and Sustainability" covering the aspects of achieving sustainability in space, and achieving sustainability from space, IST has planned more than 100 events including competitions, lectures, webinars and trainings in 15 major categories, including; Space Recitations, Creative Writing, Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Space Architectures, Space for SDGs, Space Innovation, Technology Demonstrations and Space Applications. The events are dedicated to inspire, and familiarize the school and college level students about the importance and applications of Space Science and Technology for the sustainable development of the world and beyond. The events of WSW 2022 at IST are designed for school and college level students of Grade 6-12. The competitions are being conducted in two rounds to ensure maximum participation of the students. The preliminary rounds of competitions were conducted online from September 19-23 while the final round will be conducted on campus from October 6-8, 2022. The competitions will be complemented by various talks, seminars, and webinars from national and international subject matter experts throughout the Space Week. These especially crafted events are designed in the purview of the current socioeconomic situation of the country, and to find solutions to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Space Science, Technology and its Applications. Brazil entered the final stretch of a deeply polarized presidential race Monday after an inconclusive first voting round put far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in an unexpectedly strong position Rio de Janeiro, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Oct, 2022 ) :Brazil entered the final stretch of a deeply polarized presidential race Monday after an inconclusive first voting round put far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in an unexpectedly strong position. Bolsonaro, 67, garnered 43 percent of Sunday's first-round votes compared to 48 percent for leftist frontrunner Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva -- a five-point difference that polls had predicted would be a much larger gap of 14 points. Ex-president Lula, 76, had appeared to be within arm's reach of taking the election in the first round with more than 50 percent of the vote -- but the race now heads to a October 30 runoff. Not only Bolsonaro surpassed expectations: many allies of his "God, country and family" brand of conservative politics also performed better than poll predictions in congressional and gubernatorial races. It signaled enthusiasm for the far-right leader and his policies despite Bolsonaro's controversial four-year tenure, marked by a shocking pandemic death toll blamed in part on his Covid-skeptic approach, surging destruction of the Amazon rainforest, and a sharp rise in Brazilians living in hunger. The Sao Paulo Stock Exchange welcomed the first-round results in Latin America's largest economy with a rise of more than four percent Monday morning. - 'The fight continues' - Both men declared themselves ready for the final campaign to attract the vote of some nine million Brazilians who cast their ballot for minority candidates -- none of whom managed to break through five percent of support -- and 31 million others who did not vote at all. Lula, who wasted no time convening his campaign team for a strategy meeting on Monday, said: "We will have to convince Brazilian society of what we are proposing." Addressing dumbstruck supporters in Sao Paulo Sunday, the leftist icon said he would start campaigning without delay, with more meetings with voters. Lula said he looked forward to debating Bolsonaro head-to-head "to see if he's going to keep telling lies," and promised supporters: "The fight continues until the final victory!" For his part, Bolsonaro tweeted: "we had more votes in the first round than in 2018 (when he won the presidency) -- nearly two million. " He added: "By the grace of God I have never lost an election and I know that we will not lose this time." Analysts say Bolsonaro's performance bodes for a stressful and divisive four weeks before the vote. The incumbent has repeatedly sought to cast doubt on Brazil's electronic voting system and questioned the validity of opinion polls placing him a distant second. Now, he can argue that Sunday's results bear out his claims. - 'Emboldened' - Bolsonaro's rhetoric has raised fears he could trigger a Brazilian version of the riots last year at the US Capitol after former president Donald Trump refused to accept his election defeat. Bolsonaro "will be very emboldened," by Sunday's electoral performance, said Michael Shifter of the Inter-American Dialogue think tank. "He's beaten the expectations... He will play on that the experts were wrong: 'I've got the momentum and I'll defy expectations again in the second round'." Passions will be high on both sides. Bolsonaro now has "an extra month to cause turmoil in the streets," political scientist Guilherme Casaroes of the Getulio Vargas Foundation's (FGV) Sao Paulo school of business Administration told AFP. "Any kind of doubt that he casts upon the electoral system will work in his favor... demobilizing voters not to go vote for Lula" -- who left office after two terms in 2010 with an unprecedented 87-percent approval rating and is credited with helping lift 30 million people out of poverty. Bolsonaro will continue hammering on Lula's flaws, including his conviction for corruption -- since overturned in court, but not in the court of public opinion, analysts say. "Lula's chances of being elected seem considerably slighter," said Casaroes. As for Bolsonaro, it now appeared he "could make this a contest," said Shifter. "Instead of the great comeback (for Lula) it could be the great upset."Voter Mateus Alcantara, a 26-year-old publicist, said in Rio de Janeiro his country was living a moment of "enormous polarization""Bolsonarism is growing more and more, and this is a reflection of a very conservative country," he told AFP. By Azernews By Ayya Lmahamad Azerbaijan and Turkiye have discussed possibilities of expanding cooperation between the business circles of the two countries, Azerews reports. The discussion took place during a meeting between the representatives of Azerbaijan's Small and Medium Business Development Agency (SMBDA) and a delegation of the Izmir Chamber of Commerce of Turkiye. During the meeting, SMBDA's Board Chairman Orkhan Mammadov spoke about the support and services provided by the agency to entrepreneurs. The parties discussed the prospects of expanding cooperation in the areas of agriculture, chemical and food industries, etc. Azerbaijan and Turkiye collaborate in a variety of economic sectors and have completed major energy and infrastructure projects, such as Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars, and TANAP. In 2021, Azerbaijan and Turkiye signed the Shusha Declaration on Allied Relations, which focuses on defense cooperation, promoting regional stability, prosperity, and establishing new transport routes. The two countries set up a goal to bring the mutual trade turnover to $15 billion in 2023. As of 2021, the trade turnover between the two countries amounted to $4.6 billion. So far, Turkiye is Azerbaijans second-largest investor followed by the UK. Additionally, Turkiye was one of the first countries that expressed its interest and readiness to participate in the restoration of Azerbaijans liberated territories. A former New York resident has been extradited from Kansas to Genesee County to face charges of sexually abusing children, state police in Batavia reported. Daniel L. Goodell, 41, of Wichita, Kan., was arraigned in the Town of Alexander on 12 counts of first-degree sexual abuse, 12 counts of endangering the welfare of a child and one count of second-degree sexual conduct with a child. His arrest stemmed from two complaints received by the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Batavia between 2019 and 2021 about 12- and 13-year-old children being sexually abused multiple times. Goodell moved out of the area before the incidents were investigated and was eventually found in Kansas. The Genesee County Sheriff's Office has more charges pending against him. He is held in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $30,000 cash bail or $60,000 bond. (@FahadShabbir) WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2022) Canada, Ukraine, Sweden and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on Monday calling for Iran to respect its international legal obligations over the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752. "We, Ministers representing Canada, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom, stand with the grieving families on this solemn occasion and honour the memories of the victims killed on board Flight PS752. We renew our demand that Iran fulfills its international legal obligations and ensures transparency and justice for its actions," the countries said in a statement marking 1,000 days since the jet's downing. The countries expressed gratitude to the legal team in charge of the issue and vowed to hold Iran accountable, the statement added. The Ukraine International Airlines flight crashed almost immediately after takeoff from Tehran on January 8, 2020. All 176 people aboard were killed, including nationals of Ukraine, Iran, Afghanistan, Canada, Germany, Sweden and the UK. After initially denying involvement, Iran finally admitted that the jet had been mistakenly shot down by its armed forces, who confused it for a hostile cruise missile. It happened as air defenses were active following strikes on a US military base in Iraq in retaliation for the US killing of Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad. (@FahadShabbir) MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2022) The Finnish Foreign Ministry summoned Russian Ambassador Pavel Kuznetsov on Monday in a show of protest against the referendums on joining Russia held recently in Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. "Finnish MFA summoned the Ambassador of Russia today to express the strongest condemnation of the sham referenda and announcement of illegal annexation of occupied Ukrainian regions by Russia," the ministry said on social media. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed agreements with regional leaders on Friday to allow the accession of the four entities to Russia after a vast majority of their population voted in favor of the move on September 23-27. Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz said on Monday that diplomatic relations with Russia were almost frozen over its actions in Ukraine. The Polish ministry also summoned the Russian ambassador, who declined to comment on the meeting before it took place. KRASNOYARSK (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2022) The authorities of the Russian republic of Buryatia have proposed to open direct air communication with Nepal along the route Ulan-Ude - Kathmandu, the republic's government has said. On Saturday, Head of Buryatia Alexey Tsydenov held a meeting with Milan Raj Tuladhar, the Nepali ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to Russia. The officials discussed the economic potential of bilateral cooperation and inter-state tourism. "We have discussed promising areas of cooperation: this is the opening of an air connection with Nepal. Now we will work with our aviation companies in the format of a working discussion of this issue. We propose to launch a Ulan-Ude - Kathmandu flight, since Ulan-Ude has already become a gateway to Asia," Tsydenov said in a statement following the meeting. The opening of air communication will contribute to the development of tourism between the two countries, given that many Russians want to visit Nepal and many of Nepal's citizens seek to enjoy the views of Lake Baikal, Tsydenov added. During the meeting, Buryatia's authorities have also presented the options to supply helicopters from the Ulan-Ude aircraft plant and spare parts for helicopters already in operation in Nepal, the statement read. There is only one international airport in Nepal the Tribhuvan International Airport in the east of Kathmandu. The airport has direct air communication only with 17 countries and none of them is located in Europe, North America and Australia. WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2022) US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has held talks with the head of the Ukrainian presidential office, Andriy Yermak, discussing the most recent developments in Ukraine and the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP), the White House said. "National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met today in Istanbul with Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak. Mr. Sullivan underscored the United States' steadfast support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," National Security Council (NSC) Spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a Sunday statement. Sullivan reiterated Washington's commitment to helping Kiev, including via the recently announced $12 billion in additional assistance. "The two discussed the situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant and Ukraine's continued work with the United Nations to export food to the world," Watson said. Earlier on Sunday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi to discuss the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and offer Kiev's assistance in facilitating the rotation of IAEA mission experts. On Saturday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the situation in Ukraine, including the safety of Ukraine's nuclear facilities, in a phone conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th October, 2022) The Jabhat al-Nusra terrorist group (banned in Russia) shelled Syria's Idlib de-escalation zone twice over the past 24 hours, Maj. Gen. Oleg Yegorov, deputy head of the Russian Defense Ministry's Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Sides in Syria, said at a briefing. "Two shelling attacks from the positions of the Jabhat al-Nusra terrorist group were registered in the Idlib de-escalation zone over the past day," Maj. Gen. Yegorov said. "One attack in Latakia province, one in Idlib," he said. Maj. Gen. Yegorov said a Syrian soldier was wounded in mortar shelling by terrorists. The Russian Defense Ministry's Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Sides and Control over the Movement of Refugees in the Syrian Arab Republic was established in February 2016. Its tasks include the signing of agreements on illegal armed groups and individual settlements joining the regime of cessation of hostilities, as well as coordinating the delivery of humanitarian aid. The United States has sanctioned Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina Prime Minister Fadil Novalic and businessman Slobodan Stankovic, the US State Department said in a press release on Monday WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2022) The United States has sanctioned Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina Prime Minister Fadil Novalic and businessman Slobodan Stankovic, the US State Department said in a press release on Monday. The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the two entities - the other being Republika Srpska - established by the 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement that make up the country Bosnia and Herzegovina. "The United States is designating Fadil Novalic, Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH); Slobodan Stankovic, a businessman with close ties to Milorad Dodik, a Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) official previously designated for corruption and obstructing the Dayton Peace Agreement; and Stankovic's business entity, Integral Inzenjering A.D. Laktasi (Integral)," the release said. The State Department said the ruling coalition in Republika Srpska is seeking under Dodik's leadership to create parallel structures that undermine state-level institutions. At the same time, ethno-nationalist parties in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina are crippling the country's democratic processes and abusing positions of power to derive improper financial and political benefit, the release said. Novalic is being designated for allegedly undermining the democratic processes or the country's institutions by misusing his position and public funds, the release said. "As Prime Minister of the FBiH, where the issue of pensions has strong political salience, he misused pensioner data contrary to BiH law for the benefit of his own political party. This action is just one of many publicly reported activities in which he used his position for personal or party gain and undermined democratic processes and political institutions essential to BiH's chosen future within the Euro-Atlantic community," the release said. The State Department said Stankovic has been designated for providing financial, material and technological support to Dodik. "Stankovic has long supported Dodik's destabilizing activities. Stankovic's firm Integral receives major construction projects in the RS without fair and open competition due to its close connections to RS leadership. In return, Stankovic provided support to Dodik's propaganda machine by transforming the formerly independent media outlet, Alternativna Televizija, into a mouthpiece for Dodik and his destabilizing and divisive activities," the release said. The US Treasury Department had designated Alternativna Televizija in January, the release added. The US sanctions program in the so-called "Western Balkans" targets individuals and entities that, among other criteria, undermine or threaten the agreements and institutions established by the Dayton Peace Agreement, according to the release. On May 30, 2020, the night that a Black Lives Matter protest sparked by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis grew out of control in downtown Buffalo, some groups splintered off from the main demonstration and began looting businesses on the West Side and Elmwood Village. A little after 10:30 p.m., several people broke through a glass window at the Hodge Wine & Liquor store on Elmwood Avenue, near West Utica Street. Among them was Daniel D. Hill, a 21-year-old from Kenmore, who was accused of entering the closed store and stealing some merchandise. Hill was the only one arrested at the scene that night, and he was charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree riot and resisting arrest. He faced up to seven years in prison if convicted on all the charges. Instead, Hill was allowed to participate in a new, year-long court diversion program that gives young, first-time offenders like Hill a chance to lower the charges against them. Last week, Hill, now 24, successfully completed the program and now has just a misdemeanor second-degree trespass on his record. More than half of those charged in connection with 2020 Buffalo protests saw cases dismissed There were 57 arrests made in protest-related cases between May 31 and Aug. 28, 2020, handled in Buffalo City Court, according to the Erie County District Attorney's Office. "A felony conviction it's life-altering," said Erie County Court Judge Susan Eagan, who supervises the diversion program. "We're trying to give them a chance. They may have made a bad decision at a particular time. We want to keep that from defining the trajectory of their life forever." Hill is the second person to complete the program, called U-CAN, which stands for United Against Crime Community Action Network. Three other defendants are participating in the program. Here's how it works: The program is a joint effort by Erie County Court, the District Attorneys Office, Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Erie County Probation Department, Peaceprints of WNY, Project Blue and volunteer mentors from the public. It targets young people between the ages of 18 and 25 who have been arrested on a non-violent felony or misdemeanor charge who have no prior record, but are deemed at risk of committing future crimes. The offenders must plead guilty to a crime, but then can lessen that conviction or even have it dismissed. They are teamed with a mentor and required to meet with that person once a week for an hour for a year. They also must report back to court regularly and receive counseling and referrals to services such as job training. DA Flynn: 'Overwhelming majority' of those arrested 'were white' Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn made a point Sunday afternoon to note that the overwhelming majority of the people arrested Saturday night amid protests and unrest in downtown Buffalo were not African District Attorney John J. Flynn said the program is similar to other diversion programs, such as drug court. But instead of treatment for substance use disorders, the participants are young people who need some guidance. "They need help, life skills. Like how to get a job, how to keep a job. That kind of thing," Flynn said. "The point of this was to try to reach individuals who were falling through the cracks of the normal diversion courts and get them services that they need and having a mentor they can talk with and steer them in the right direction." Eagan modeled the program after a similar effort in Cohoes, outside Albany, started by Andra Ackerman, an Albany County judge who was previously a Cohoes city court judge. "She started it for the same reason I wanted to do this," Eagan said. "We see a number of offenders who come through the courts that need a little support and assistance, and if given that, we don't see them again." That is the whole point, Eagan said. The mentoring is a key part, she said. "That guidance that's not punitive. We don't invade that relationship. We just want to know 'Are they meeting with you? Is it a productive?' I want it to be a safe space about the challenges they are having." So far, the program seems to be going well "Knock on wood," she said with all five participants showing up regularly. Because it started during the Covid-19 pandemic, some meetings ended up being over the phone, Eagan said. The program takes a lot more effort than a regular court case, she acknowledged. "It is a bigger commitment on everyone's part," she said. However, it doesn't require extra funding. "We are utilizing all the resources that are available in a slightly different way. We are reimagining some of the roles and looking at it from a different perspective. There's no cost. The mentors are volunteers. Probation is here, anyway. We've just changed the angle that we're looking at." Hill declined to be interviewed for the story. But his attorney, Brooke Meehan, praised the program. "Not only did Mr. Hill get the benefit of a reduced plea," Meehan said, "the program also helped create a successful path for him moving forward." An inquiry is underway following an assassination attempt on Argentina's Vice President, which she survived because the weapon failed to fire. Demonstrations are taking place in protest of the violence. By James Blears Huge crowds have gathered in Argentina's Capital Buenos Aires in support of Vice President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, condemning the violence. She was returning home to her apartment in the Recoleta district, when within a group of supporters and well-wishers supporting her battle against corruption charges, a gunman emerged pointing a semi-automatic 38 caliber pistol at her. He pulled the trigger, but the gun jammed and did not fire, which meant serious injury or death was avoided by good luck and sheer fate. Cristina, who momentarily seemed unaware of the extreme danger, continued greeting her supporters and was then whisked away by her security entourage. The alleged gunman is 35 year old street vendor Fernando Andres Sabag Montiel. Born in Brazil, his mother is from Argentina, which is where he has lived since 1993. No motive has yet been determined. He is being accused of attempted murder. Cristina was First Lady in the single Presidential term of her husband Nestor Kirchner. She twice served as President between 2007 and 2015. And she has been Vice President since 2019. She denies corruption charges against her. As President of the Senate, she currently has immunity from prosecution. Her attempted assassination has shocked Argentina, and there are calls to temper inflammatory political rhetoric, which precipitates anger that can lead to violence. Ce debut dautomne est place sous le signe du combat ! Tout au long du mois doctobre, CINE+ vous propose une programmation 100% Full Fight ! Montez sur le ring et affrontez plus de 50 films lors de differents rounds autour de la boxe, ou des arts-martiaux ! De Raging Bull a Ali en passant par La Saga Rocky, preparez-vous pour le plus grand des combats sur les chaines CINE+ (disponible avec CANAL+). Au programme donc, les plus grands films de combats. Pour retrouvez la liste en integralite, rendez-vous ICI ! Les Principaux films : Rocky Match retour Mortal combat Raging Bull Ali Foxcatcher Scorpion La Rage au Ventre Decouvrez la bande-annonce : Albanian authorities Monday denied the country's police system was hacked after local media reported that data on people being investigated for crimes was released from an Iranian hacking group. Albanian media reported a leaked file with a list of suspected people, from allegedly the police database, who are being probed on different crimes. Ervin Karamuco, a criminology professor, was quoted in social media as saying a channel called Homeland Justice had published 1.7 gigabytes of criminal data from the Memex police system. State police denied its Memex system was damaged but urged local media not to publish data from hackers. Interior Minister Bledi Cuci said that list had not come from the criminal police database. He said Microsoft and the FBI were helping Albanian authorities recuperate the affected systems. Speaking at the Parliament, Prime Minister Edi Rama said the list aimed at creating social disturbances by issuing a "photo-edited list mixing criminals with politicians, with journalists." Last month Albania cut diplomatic ties with Iran over a July 15 cyberattack that temporarily shut down numerous Albanian government digital services and websites. Rama called the disruption an act of "state aggression." After Tirana severed ties with Tehran, a second cyberattack from the same Iranian source struck an information system that records Albanian border entries and exits, creating delays for travelers. NATO, the United States and the European Union denounced the attack and supported Albania's move to cut diplomatic ties with Tehran. The U.S. government-imposed sanctions on Iran's intelligence agency and its leadership in response to the July cyberattack. Albania, a NATO member, is being helped by the alliance, the U.S. and the EU to investigate and install better cyber defenses. Female students in Afghanistan took to the streets for a third day in a row Monday to seek justice for victims of last weeks suicide bombing of an education center in Kabul, as the death toll continues to rise. The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said Fridays powerful blast in the capital, Kabul, had killed at least 53 people, including 46 girls and women, and wounded more than 110 others. Girls and young women [were] the main victims. Casualty figures likely to rise further, the UNAMA tweeted Monday. "Our human rights team continues documenting the crime: verifying facts & establishing reliable data to counter denial & revisionism. The attack targeted the private Kaaj tutoring center in Dasht-e-Barchi, a western Kabul neighborhood home to the Afghan minority Shia Hazara community. Survivors said there were 400 boys and girls, separated by a curtain, in line with Taliban instructions, taking a mock university entrance exam when the bomber detonated his explosives in the girls section. The Islamist Taliban government has come under severe criticism for failing to provide security to what rights groups see as the most persecuted Afghan minority group. The violence has sparked domestic and international outrage, prompting Afghan female students in several cities to stage protests. On Monday, dozens of university students marched through the streets of Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of the northern Balkh province, demanding justice for the victims. Taliban security forces allegedly locked a group of women students in their dormitory to prevent them from joining the rally, according to social media videos. VOA could not verify the authenticity of the footage showing a girl trying to unsuccessfully break the door lock with a brick. Kabul, western Herat, and central Bamiyan are among the cities where demonstrations have been held since Friday by mostly Hazara women students. Protesters also have pressed the Taliban to ease restrictions on womens rights to work and education, while others have expressed support for ongoing protests in neighboring Iran. Taliban security forces have disrupted protests by firing in the air, but some have accused them of beating or firing at demonstrators. The Taliban have barred grades seven through 12 from resuming secondary schools in most of the country since they seized power a year ago. The Islamist group also backtracked on promises to open all Afghan schools in March. However, the Taliban have opened public and private universities to women students across Afghanistan, with strictly segregated classrooms for male and females. No one has claimed responsibility for Friday's blast in Kabul, which critics see a setback to women seeking education in defiance of strict Taliban polices. "Our last hope was educational institutions. Unfortunately, now the institutions are also under threat," said Sakina Nazari, a 25-year-old resident and former Kaaj student whose family friend was badly injured in the attack. Private tutoring centers have provided a lifeline to girls wanting to further their education and a chance to go to universities, where women are still allowed, though they face increased restrictions and growing economic challenges. The UNAMA has called on the Taliban to bring to justice those responsible, urging the Islamist rulers to fulfil obligations to ensure safety of all Afghans. The United States, Pakistan and other countries have also denounced the violence. The Taliban have vowed to enhance security of all Afghans following the attack and have sent their representatives to Hazara victim families in a bid to reassure them of protection against possible future attacks. The Taliban foreign ministry in a statement has condemned Fridays attack and other such incidents as the work of malicious networks and a conspiracy by the enemies of Afghanistan to create divisions among the Afghan people. The Islamic Emirate does not believe in any ethnic or religious division of the Afghan people and considers itself responsible for protecting the lives of all Afghans, the ministry said. While pledging to all our compatriots that we will do more to identify and bring to justice perpetrators of these attacks, we urge all foreign parties to refrain from issuing irresponsible statements on Afghanistan's internal affairs beyond expressing condolences." Previous attacks against Afghanistans Hazara community have been claimed by the local offshoot of the self-proclaimed, Sunni-based, Islamic State group, known as Islamic State Khorasan or ISIS-K. The terrorist outfit has stepped up its extremist violence since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021 when all U.S.-led foreign troops withdrew from Afghanistan after almost 20 years of war. Some information in this report came from Reuters. Australia has hit Russia with a fresh round of sanctions over Moscows claimed annexation of four regions in Ukraine. Travel restrictions and financial penalties are being imposed on Russian-backed separatists and senior officials. Campaigners are urging Australia to supply more weapons to Ukraine. The new sanctions imposed by Australia will target 28 Russian-appointed separatist ministers and officials. The government in Canberra has said they are trying to legitimize Russias actions in Ukraine through sham referendums and disinformation. Friday, President Vladimir Putin declared that four regions of Ukraine, including Donetsk and Luhansk, would be absorbed into Russia. Australia has joined a chorus of global condemnation of the annexations. Defense minister Richard Marles told reporters Sunday they were illegal. The unprovoked aggression from Russia in respect of Ukraine is such a flouting of the U.N. Charter, of the global rules-based order it must not be allowed stand, he said. Ukrainian groups in Australia continue to urge the Canberra government to provide more military assistance to Ukraine. Australia has provided missiles and Bushmaster armored personnel carriers. Stefan Romaniw, the co-chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organizations, says military support and sanctions send a clear message to Russias President Putin. What is an Australian Bushmaster going to do in Ukraine? What it has done has been very effective in helping to reclaim part of Ukrainian soil and taking over territory. This morning Bushmasters are towing Russian tanks. The question of whether sanctions work or dont, he [President Vladimir Putin] has to get a message that he is not welcome in the international community, he is toxic, he said. Australia has already imposed sweeping sanctions on Russian institutions and its political and military leaders, including President Putin. Russia has responded by placing Australia and other European nations, the U.S., Japan and South Korea on a list of unfriendly countries. Australia has also filed with the International Court of Justice, or the ICJ, in support of a case brought by Ukraine against Russia for violating the Genocide Convention. It joins other countries, including New Zealand, Denmark and Spain. The ICJ has ordered Russia to halt its invasion of Ukraine and said it had not seen any evidence to support Moscows justification for the war. Russia has failed to comply with the order. The remains of dozens of Indigenous Maori and Moriori people were officially received at New Zealand's national museum in Wellington Sunday, completing a repatriation process from Austria, where the bones have resided for more than 130 years. The repatriation "powhiri," or welcoming ceremony, in bitterly cold, wet conditions at Te Papa concluded when the remains of about 64 Maori and Moriori the Indigenous people of mainland New Zealand and the Chatham Islands were taken to the museum's Rongomaraeroa Marae, a sacred resting place. The event completed a six-day journey for the remains, which left from the Natural History Museum in Vienna. Records show that most of the bones, including skulls, were collected by Austrian taxidermist and grave robber Andreas Reischek, who spent 12 years in New Zealand until 1889. The remains were housed for decades in Austria's capital after being "stolen with no regard" from New Zealand's "iwi" (tribes), officials from the two countries agreed. Reischek's diaries outlined how he looted graves without permission from several locations, including the Chatham Islands. William "Pou" Temara, chairperson of Te Papa's Repatriation Advisory Panel, said the repatriation the largest from Austria to New Zealand was significant. "It is always a spiritual relief and privilege to welcome back our ancestors who have been victims of such wrongdoing. Culturally we know that they are weeping with joy now that they have returned to Aotearoa (New Zealand) where at last they will rest in peace." Te Papa's acting head of repatriation TeArikirangi Mamaku-Ironside praised the assistance of colleagues in Austria in concluding 77 years of negotiations between the countries. "The Natural History Museum, Vienna has made a profound commitment to right the wrongs of the past and approached this work with a spirit of openness and reconciliation," said Temara, before adding that a government-funded repatriation program has numerous ongoing projects to pursue. "While we've seen an increase in conversations about repatriating human remains, there is still a lot of work to do to bring all our ancestors home." The remains will reside at Te Papa while iwi are consulted to determine a final resting place. U.S. President Joe Biden surveyed damage Monday from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and pledged more than $60 million in aid to help the U.S. territory in the aftermath of last months storm. Were investing in Puerto Ricos roads, bridges, public transit, ports, airports, water safety and high-speed internet, Biden said in the southern city of Ponce, hard hit by the hurricane. He pledged that his administration was committed to rebuilding Puerto Rico and said he would make sure it got every single dollar promised after the storm. We are not leaving here as long as Im president, until every single thing we can do is done, Biden said. The White House said the $60 million in new funding would come from last years bipartisan infrastructure law and would be used to bolster levees and flood walls as well as to create a flood warning system in the territory. Hurricane Fiona struck Puerto Rico on September 18 and knocked out power to the entire island. Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi said Monday that power had been restored to 93% of residents. Parts of the hardest-hit areas in the western and southern parts of Puerto Rico were still struggling without power. The territory has still not completely recovered from Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm that struck the island five years ago in September. Biden said Puerto Rico must rebuild with future storms in mind. We know that the climate crisis and more extreme weather will continue to hit this island and hit the United States overall. And as we rebuild, we have to ensure that we rebuild it to last, he said. Before leaving the White House, Biden told reporters he was traveling to Puerto Rico because they havent been taken very good care of, an apparent reference to the Trump administrations response to Hurricane Maria. While in Puerto Rico, Biden, who is traveling with his wife, Jill, is meeting with families and community leaders working to rebuild after the storm. Biden is due to travel Wednesday to the southeastern U.S. state of Florida hit by Hurricane Ian last week. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters. At least 20 people were killed and 36 others wounded in the central Somali town of Beledweyne Monday in the explosions of three car bombs, witnesses said. Two of the explosions took place at around 10:30 a.m. local time, followed by a third car bomb in the afternoon. Residents told a VOA reporter in Beledweyne that the first two vehicles targeted Lama-Galaay miliary base which also serves as the local government headquarters in the eastern district and hosts the offices of the deputy leader of Hirshabelle state and the governor of the Hiran region. The third car bomb exploded while headed for the same target where the two explosions took place earlier in the day. Among those killed in the morning explosions are the deputy governor of Hiran region Abukar Sheikh Madey and the regions health minister Zakariye Mohamed Ahmed. The al-Shabab militant group claimed responsibility for the attack. Beledweyne, about 300 kilometers north of Mogadishu, has been the center of a recent local community mobilization against al-Shabab. Local officials including the governor of Hiran region, Ali Jeyte Osman, led community forces who fought alongside Somali government forces, seizing dozens of villages from the militant group. Senior al-Shabab official killed Mondays explosions came hours after the Somali government reported that a senior al-Shabab official was killed in an operation in Haramka area in Middle Juba region on October 1. In a statement, the Ministry of Information said al-Shabab co-founder Abdullahi Nadir was killed in an operation by the national forces in collaboration with international partner forces. Nadir, also known as Abdullahi Yare, is a senior al-Shabab official who held multiple posts within the group including the media, finance and preaching or Dawah departments. Nadir was a close ally of the late al-Shabab leader Ahmed Abdi Godane who was killed in a U.S. strike in September 2014, and the current emir Ahmed Umar Abu Ubaidah. The United States had offered $3 million for information leading to the capture or death of Nadir, and $6 million for Ubaidah. The United States military command in Africa (AFRICOM) confirmed in a statement conducting an airstrike near the town of Jilib in Middle Juba region on October 1. Without providing a name, AFRICOM said the airstrike killed an al-Shabab leader. The commands initial assessment is that the strike killed an al-Shabaab leader and that no civilians were injured or killed, the AFRICOM statement said. U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of the operation and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released in order to ensure operations security, the statement added. Jilib is in the same vicinity where the Somali government reported that Nadir was killed. Somalia Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur hailed the reported killing of Abdullahi Nadir. He hinted that the reported killing of Nadir may have been in retaliation for those killed by al-Shabab. He said the killing of Nadir is the beginning of attacks in response to the killing of late Mogadishu police chief Brig. Gen. Farhan Mohamoud Adan who was killed Friday by an al-Shabab improvised explosive device, or IED, near Mogadishu, and the killing of Elmi Hagar Gure in an al-Shabab attack near Moqokori in the Hiran region last week. Gure was a traditional elder who participated in the mobilization. Accountability is just beginning, Nur posted on his official Facebook account before the explosions in Beledweyne. Al-Shabab has not confirmed or denied the reported killing of Abdullahi Nadir. Somalia reported last week that another partner country, Turkey, is providing air support, a development that could boost ongoing military operations against al-Shabab by Somali government and locally mobilized forces. Interior Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi recently told local television that Turkey has joined in providing air support to the Somali government. Fiqi did not specify operations or specific dates for Turkish participation in attacks against al-Shabab. The Turkish government has yet to confirm the reports. The Buffalo Public Schools budgeted about $55 million in each of the last three years for retiree health insurance which is about $5 million more than the district paid last year to transport pre-K through eighth grade students on yellow buses. This expense for former employees is not sustainable in the long term, the district said last week, and wrestling over the future of retiree compensation has become a major sticking point in testy contract negotiations between BPS and the Buffalo Teachers Federation. In contract talks, the school district has proposed eliminating retiree health insurance for any teachers hired after ratification of a new contract, district general counsel Nathaniel Kuzma confirmed Friday. Current teachers with at least 15 years of service would remain eligible for district-sponsored retirement health insurance under this proposal. Teachers currently have to work at least 15 years before qualifying for the benefit, and any teacher now on the payroll would continue to qualify once reaching that threshold. The savings from not providing health insurance for future teacher hires represents an "opportunity cost" that could be applied to raising salaries for current and future teachers, Kuzma said. Salaries and retiree health insurance are inseparable topics, the district contends. "We want to increase salaries to a competitive level, but we can't do both and still sustain a district well into this century," Kuzma said. But BTF President Phil Rumore in late July said he did not plan to budge on retaining the district-sponsored retiree health insurance included in the current contract. "I believe it's against everything that unions stand for, to sacrifice newer members for existing members," Rumore told The News this summer. The BTF president did not respond to multiple requests for comment last week. The fight over a contract for Buffalo teachers is heating up For more than three years, the union that represents Buffalo public school teachers and the Buffalo School Board have been unable to agree on the terms of a new contract. The stress is beginning to show. The impasse over retiree health insurance comes amid rising tensions in contract negotiations. The BTF has accused the district of improper practices and bargaining in bad faith to the Public Employment Relations Board, and voiced its frustrations at a rally of about 400 teachers at Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts before the Sept. 19 School Board meeting. Negotiators for each side sparred verbally at a special School Board meeting a week earlier. The BTF later decided unanimously to give the Buffalo School Board and Superintendent Tonja M. Williams a vote of "no confidence" if a new contract is not settled by Oct. 11, the date of the next union meeting. The district plans to submit its contract proposal Oct. 7 to an independent fact-finder, who is tasked with evaluating the offers of both sides and determining a fair deal, though the recommendation is not binding. Retiree health insurance to end for new administrators in Buffalo schools Administrators hired after July 2023 will not be eligible for health insurance paid for by the district after they retire, under the terms of a new contract approved this week by the School Board. The school district has already settled contracts with 10 of its 11 unions, but the teachers are by far the largest group. Kuzma said of the nonteacher settlements, six unions agreed to forgo retiree health insurance for future hires for the first time. Unions for administrators, engineers, teachers aides and food service workers were among those to drop retiree health insurance. Kuzma said the district's liability for Other Post-Employment Benefits, or nonpension retiree benefits, was estimated at $2 billion prior to these new contracts. The chief difference between Buffalo Public Schools and many of its peers is that BPS under its current teacher agreement offers a health insurance policy, administered by BlueCross BlueShield, even after the age of 65, whereas other city and suburban districts may help cover only the gap years from early retirement at 58 until age 65, when Medicare coverage becomes available. Kuzma estimated the district spends about $12,000 per teacher per year in retiree health insurance. In most insurance plans, retired Buffalo teachers must contribute less than 10%. For reference, Medicare B (medical insurance) premiums cost about $170 per month, or around $2,000 annually, for individuals who made less than $91,000 annually. Medicare A (hospital insurance) is free for most people over 65. Those in the federal program often must contribute a percentage for many medical services. The counsel explained that the district is self-insured; it does not pay premiums for health insurance but pays dollar for dollar. In other words, the $55 million in the 2021-22 budget represents how much retired BPS employees actually utilized, Kuzma said. If the BTF agrees to remove retiree health insurance, Kuzma said the district would explore ways to help retired teachers navigate post-retirement health insurance in the same way it did for other unions. For example, the contract with the Buffalo Council of Supervisors and Administrators union allows administrators hired after July 1, 2023, to trade in up to 120 sick days and use early retirement incentives toward purchasing a district-sponsored health insurance plan. For BPS, both of these options already exist for teachers under the current contract, but Kuzma said the district would consider expanding the cap for how many sick days could be sold back. Many suburban districts, like Orchard Park, Cheektowaga-Sloan and Depew, allow teachers flexibility in how they allocate their retirement dollars toward health care. All-access no more: NFTA, Buffalo Schools return to routed metro passes for students Curtailing large public altercations is a major part of new NFTA Transit Police Chief Brian Patterson's coordinated safety plan. While the BTF and the district are at a standoff on health insurance, they are also not close in how much they believe teachers' wages should increase. In comparing a recent district proposal to one of the union's proposals at the Sept. 19 board meeting, Kuzma said the district would raise the average teacher salary from $72,000 to $84,000 over a three-year period. The union, Kuzma said, wants teachers to earn between $169,000 and $189,000 annually after three years, once the annual raises and cost-of-living increases it seeks are calculated. Because current BPS teachers, under the district's latest proposal, would still receive retiree health insurance, the district would not receive much financial relief in the short term, Kuzma said. The district's offer would require current teachers both in their active status and in future retirement to essentially double their contributions toward a health insurance premium, from $1,500 to $2,793 annually for the most expensive family plan and from $600 to $1,257 annually for the most expensive individual plan. "We're not going to realize the benefit until 25-30 years down the road," Kuzma said. "When you think about long-term planning, that's what we're trying to do. We're not looking at the next 4-5 years, I'm looking at the next 40-50 years, and what this district is going to look like. "You hear our teachers talk about, 'Well, we're this far behind where our suburbs are at in terms of pay,' " he said. "And our counter to that is, 'Yeah, the suburbs, if you look at their collective bargaining agreements, don't have retiree health insurance.'" Haiti on Sunday said at least seven people have died of cholera in a surprise return of the disease that comes as the nation is paralyzed by a gang blockade that has triggered shortages of fuel and clean drinking water. The disease killed some 10,000 people through a 2010 outbreak that has been blamed on a United Nations peacekeeping force. The Pan American Health Organization in 2020 said Haiti had gone a year with no confirmed cholera cases. "According to the information we have, the number of deaths is about 7 to 8," he said, adding that officials were struggling to get information from hospitals. "There was one death during the day today." The Health Ministry earlier confirmed one case in the Port-au-Prince area and that there were suspect cases in the town of Cite Soleil outside the capital, which was the site of vicious gang turf wars in July. Since last month, gangs have been blocking the country's main fuel port in protest over September's announcement of a fuel price hike. Many hospitals have shut down or scaled back operations for lack of fuel to power generators. Basic transit is now impossible for most citizens. Caribbean Bottling Company, a key supplier of bottled water, said Sunday that it could no longer continue producing and distributing water because it had run out of diesel fuel, which is critical to its supply chain. Cholera causes uncontrollable diarrhea. The disease is typically spread by water contaminated with the feces of a sick person, meaning that clean drinking water is critical for preventing its spread. Troops from Nepal, where cholera is endemic, were in Haiti as part of a U.N. peacekeeping force established in 2004 after the overthrow of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide. The force size was increased after Haiti's 2010 earthquake. The United Nations in 2016 apologized for the outbreak, without taking responsibility. An independent panel appointed by then-U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon issued a 2011 report that did not determine conclusively how cholera was introduced to Haiti. The panel members in 2013 independently published an article that concluded personnel associated with the U.N. peacekeeping mission were "the most likely source." Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's new title of prime minister could prove more significant abroad than inside the kingdom, where he already wields enormous power. The appointment by royal decree comes as the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden is debating whether the crown prince qualifies for immunity from lawsuits filed in American courts. Before the crown princes new title was announced, a judge gave U.S. lawyers a deadline of October 3 to file a "statement of interest" on the immunity question. But on Friday, citing the crown princes new position, the administration requested an additional 45 days to make up its mind, according to a court filing seen by Agence France-Presse. The 37-year-old de facto ruler of the world's biggest crude exporter has been targeted in multiple lawsuits in the United States in recent years, notably over the 2018 killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the kingdom's Istanbul consulate, which temporarily turned him into a pariah in the West. His lawyers have argued that he "sits at the apex of Saudi Arabia's government" and thus qualifies for immunity. Human rights activists and government critics immediately speculated this week that making the crown prince prime minister was a bald-faced attempt to strengthen the immunity claim and skirt legal exposure. Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of the Khashoggi-founded nongovernmental organization Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), told AFP it was a "last-ditch effort to conjure up a new title for him" "a title-washing ploy." Saudi officials did not respond to requests for comment on the move. Hit squads and hacks In October 2020, two years after Khashoggi's death, DAWN filed a complaint in the U.S. along with Khashoggi's fiancee, Hatice Cengiz, accusing Crown Prince Mohammed of being involved in a "conspiracy" that led to Khashoggi being kidnapped, bound, drugged, tortured and assassinated. Last year, Biden declassified an intelligence report that found the crown prince had approved the operation against Khashoggi, an assertion Saudi authorities deny. The legal threats to the crown prince in U.S. courts go beyond Khashoggi. He was also named in a lawsuit filed by Saad al-Jabri, a former top intelligence official who fell out of favor as the crown prince maneuvered in 2017 to become first in line to the throne. That complaint accuses the crown prince of trying to lure Jabri back to Saudi Arabia from exile in Canada. And when that didn't work, "deploying a hit squad" to kill him on Canadian soil, a plot foiled when most of the would-be assailants were turned back at the border. In yet another case, the crown prince was accused by Lebanese journalist Ghada Oueiss of involvement in a scheme to hack her mobile device and disseminate "stolen personal images" to defame her and prevent her from reporting on human rights issues. The immunity issue appeared to come to a head over the summer when a U.S. judge gave the Biden administration until August 1 to say whether it believed the crown prince qualified. After Biden visited Saudi Arabia in July, abandoning a previous pledge to turn Saudi Arabia into a "pariah, his administration requested an additional 60 days to decide whether to weigh in on the matter. Assuming the second 45-day extension requested on Friday is granted, the new deadline will fall in mid-November. 'In control' at home Before this week's announcement, the crown prince, often referred to by his initials, MBS, had been serving as deputy prime minister and defense minister, managing major portfolios from energy to security and beyond. Little is expected to change inside the kingdom as a result of his new title, said Umar Karim, an expert on Saudi politics at the University of Birmingham. "MBS was already completely in control, and there was no threat as such to him that could be countered by him becoming prime minister," Karim said. At the same time, it is not clear whether becoming prime minister will significantly bolster his claim of immunity, given that King Salman remains head of state. Observers pointed out that the Saudi king chaired a cabinet meeting the same day that the crown princes promotion was announced. Even if the immunity question is resolved in the United States, it is likely to pop up in other countries. In July, a group of NGOs filed a complaint in France alleging that the crown prince was an accomplice to Khashoggi's torture and enforced disappearance. They said the charges could be prosecuted in France, which recognizes universal jurisdiction. The crown prince "does not have immunity from prosecution because as crown prince, he is not head of state," they said. The government of Uganda and the U.N. Refugee Agency say a surge of refugees fleeing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo is tearing apart families and stretching aid resources. The UNHCR says officials were prepared to help some 68,000 Congolese refugees expected in Uganda, but now 150,000 are predicted to arrive by year's end. Congolese refugees stream across Uganda's western border with the DRC to escape nearly a year of fighting between M23 rebels and DRC government troops. Senjiwuva Gasigwa Phillipe, one of many refugees crossing into Uganda, says people were forced to flee when gunfire woke them in the middle of the night. He was separated from family members as they fled, but recently has been reunited with them. Other refugees weren't so lucky. Amani Gidide lost contact with three of her children, and is now moving from a transit center to a refugee settlement. With God's love, she says, her children will be found. The UNHCR says 71,000 refugees have crossed into Uganda from the DRC since January, and that number is expected to more than double by the end of the year. UNHCR's Uganda representative Matthew Crentsil says as a result, resources are overstretched. "If you look at the funding received now compared to the new needs, given the planning figure which has been reviewed, it's only about 11 percent or so which has been received, which is woefully inadequate to cover the growing needs of these refugees," Crentsil said. Ugandan officials say a holding center for refugees has been opened to support the overflowing transit center, which already hosts some 14,000 refugees. "We are operating two centers at a go," said Daniel Kisamo, Nyakabande Refugee Transit and Holding Center refugee commandant. "The transit center being for those ones who are ready to move to the settlement. Then the holding center was designated for those ones who still need to make up their mind. Or in case to wait for their family members, because we know what war does." The M23 rebels launched attacks on DRC forces in 2012, saying they were fighting for good governance. After being quiet for nearly a decade, the group resumed fighting in late 2021, seizing territory and causing refugees to flee the violence. Congo has repeatedly accused its smaller central African neighbor Rwanda of backing the M23, a charge Kigali denies. Meanwhile, Congolese refugees like Gidide wait, hoping to be reunited with family and return home soon. Ethiopia's Tigray rebels have said they are withdrawing from parts of the neighboring Amhara region, which they entered shortly after renewed hostilities broke out with federal government forces in August. In a statement, the leadership of the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF) described the move as a tactical redeployment of its forces and said it was necessary to counter an "invasion" from the north. The fresh fighting has seen Eritrea renew its involvement in the war, on the side of Ethiopias federal government. Last month the Tigray forces said Eritrea had launched a full-scale offensive across the region's northern border. Accordingly, we have made geographical adjustments by withdrawing from Amhara areas we had entered in the direction of the south, the latest TPLF statement said. It added that the withdrawal had been underway for three days and could be reversed if pro-government forces made further attacks on the southern fronts. Separately, Tigray spokesman Getachew Reda said on Twitter that his regions forces had inflicted tens of thousands of losses on pro-government units. VOA was unable to verify these claims. The areas affected by the fighting are mostly cut off from phone and internet access, and journalists are currently barred from travelling there. Ethiopias federal government has remained tight-lipped amid the recent fighting and has not commented on the Tigray forces latest statement. Eritrean forces fought alongside Ethiopia's federal forces when the Tigray conflict first broke out in November 2020, before they were both forced to withdraw in June 2021. Asmara's re-entry into the conflict has drawn international condemnation. Why is retaking the city of Lyman important for Ukraines counteroffensives? Australia announced new sanctions against Russia after it annexed areas of Ukraine last week. Why those fleeing Russian mobilization orders, may not be safe in neighboring Belarus. In most democracies, citizens go to the polls. But in Brazil's sparsely populated Amazon region, the polls often go to the voters. Most people in the vast rainforest live in urban areas, but thousands reside in tiny villages several days from the nearest city by boat. Amazonas, Brazil's biggest state, is triple the size of California yet has only about one-third the population of greater Los Angeles. More than half its cities can't be reached at all by road, and some are hundreds of kilometers from the state capital, Manaus. Logistics pose a challenge even in Manaus, a sprawling municipality of 2.2 million people. On Saturday, The Associated Press accompanied election workers setting up a voting place in the Bela Vista do Jaraqui community, a three-hour boat trip from the city. "No candidate made an appearance here during this campaign," Joao Moraes de Souza, a local fisherman and small farmer, told The Associated Press. "If nobody comes during the campaign, you can imagine afterward." One of the election workers was Ana Lucia Salazar de Souza. Due to the distance, her team, including police officers, would spend the night in makeshift lodging and return to Manaus on Sunday after voting ends in the afternoon. "There are many difficulties," she said. "But participating in this process of citizenship makes all sacrifices worth it." Collecting votes in Amazonas' remote Javari Valley region is even more fraught but less so in recent years thanks to the efforts of Bruno Pereira, the Indigenous expert slain this year alongside British journalist Dom Phillips. Until 2012, the region's only voting centers were in the city of Atalaia do Norte. That year, a mayoral candidate distributed gasoline to about 1,200 Indigenous people from the Javari Valley Indigenous Territory so they could make the multiday trip downriver to vote. The candidate hadn't provided enough fuel for their return trip, however. They were stranded on the riverbanks for weeks without proper sanitation, prompting a rotavirus outbreak. Five Kanamari babies died, and some 100 people were hospitalized. At the time, Pereira led the local bureau of Brazil's agency for Indigenous affairs. He provided them with food and water and coordinated a quarantine to prevent the virus from reaching Indigenous villages. Later, he and local Indigenous leaders developed a plan for transporting electronic voting machines to remote villages. "Bruno wrote all the technical parts," Jader Marubo, then-president of the local Indigenous association, told the AP. Villages in the Javari Valley territory received their first voting centers in 2014. To deliver a voting machine to the most distant village, Vida Nova, election officials usually fly in a small plane from Manaus to Cruzeiro do Sul, a city in Acre state. There, they board a helicopter for the final leg. It is a 1,000-mile round-trip voyage to reach a place with 327 voters, in a nation with an electorate of more than 150 million people. This year, the Javari Valley territory has seven voting centers, for 1,655 Indigenous voters. In August, the regional election authority building in Atalaia do Norte was renamed for Bruno Pereira. The White House on Monday assailed Irans crackdown on protests over the death of a young woman held in captivity by the countrys morality police for failing to properly cover her hair with a hijab. Were alarmed and appalled by reports of security authorities responding to university students peaceful protests with violence and mass arrests, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters traveling with President Joe Biden to Puerto Rico, a U.S. island territory hit by Hurricane Fiona last month. Jean-Pierre said university students in Iran are rightly enraged by the death of Mahsa Amini, 22. Jean-Pierre said the arrests of the demonstrators are the type of events that prompt young people in Iran to leave the country and seek dignity and opportunity elsewhere. Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the widespread protests following the death in police custody of a young woman last month are not the actions of ordinary Iranians as he accused the United States and Israel of planning the demonstrations. The protests, now in their third week, have been met with a crackdown by police and security forces. A tally of government statements compiled by The Associated Press gave a death toll of at least 14 people with 1,500 arrests, while rights groups say at least 130 are dead with thousands arrested. Khamenei said the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini was a sad incident and that he was heartbroken. Irans morality police arrested Amini in Tehran for allegedly not following the countrys strict dress code and she died in a hospital three days later after falling into a coma. The government said she died of a heart attack. Her family rejected that account, saying Amini had no history of heart problems and that she was instead beaten. They called for accountability. Thousands of people gathered in several countries Sunday to condemn Irans crackdown on protests in that country that began after the death of Amini. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last week, The only reason shes not [alive] is because a brutal regime took her life and took her life because of decisions she should be making about what she would wear or not wear. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded publicly on Monday to the biggest protests in Iran in years, breaking weeks of silence to condemn what he called "rioting" and accuse the United States and Israel of planning the protests. The unrest, ignited by the death of a young woman in the custody of Iran's morality police, is flaring up across the country for a third week despite government efforts to crack down. On Monday, Iran shuttered its top technology university following an hourslong standoff between students and the police that turned the prestigious institution into the latest flashpoint of protests and ended with hundreds of young people arrested. Speaking to a cadre of police students in Tehran, Khamenei said he was "deeply heartbroken" by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody, calling it a "tragic incident." However, he lambasted the protests as a foreign plot to destabilize Iran, echoing authorities' previous comments. "This rioting was planned," he said. "These riots and insecurities were designed by America and the Zionist regime, and their employees." Meanwhile, Sharif University of Technology in Tehran announced that only doctoral students would be allowed on campus until further notice following hours of turmoil Sunday, when witnesses said antigovernment protesters clashed with pro-establishment students. The witnesses, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said the police kept hundreds of students holed up on campus and fired rounds of tear gas to disperse the demonstrations. The student association said plainclothes officers surrounded the school from all sides as protests roiled the campus after nightfall and detained at least 300 students. Plainclothes officers beat a professor and several university employees, the association said. The state-run IRNA news agency sought to downplay the violent standoff, reporting a "protest gathering" took place without causing casualties. But it also said police released 30 students from detention, acknowledging many had been caught in the dragnet by mistake as they tried to go home. The crackdown sparked backlash Monday at home and abroad. "Suppose we beat and arrest, is this the solution?" asked a column in the Jomhouri Eslami daily, a hard-line Iranian newspaper. "Is this productive?" The White House on Monday denounced the crackdown by Iranian security forces against peaceful protests in Iran, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. "We're alarmed and appalled by reports of security authorities' responding to university students' peaceful protests with violence and mass arrests," she told reporters traveling with President Joe Biden to Puerto Rico. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the "regime's brute force" at Sharif University as "an expression of sheer fear at the power of education and freedom." "The courage of Iranians is incredible," she said. Iran's latest protest movement, which has produced some of the nation's most widespread unrest in years, emerged as a response to Amini's death after her arrest for allegedly violating the country's strict Islamic dress code. It has since grown into an open challenge to the Iranian leadership, with women burning their state-mandated headscarves and chants of "Death to the dictator," echoing from streets and balconies after dark. The demonstrations have tapped a deep well of grievances in Iran, including the country's social restrictions, political repression and ailing economy strangled by American sanctions. The unrest has continued in Tehran and far-flung provinces even as authorities have disrupted internet access and blocked social media apps. Protests also have spread across the Middle East and to Europe and North America. Thousands poured into the streets of Los Angeles to show solidarity. Police scuffled with protesters outside Iranian embassies in London and Athens. Crowds chanted "Woman! Life! Freedom!" in Paris. In his remarks on Monday, Khamenei condemned scenes of protesters ripping off their hijabs and setting fire to mosques, banks and police cars as "actions that are not normal, that are unnatural." He warned that "those who foment unrest to sabotage the Islamic Republic deserve harsh prosecution and punishment." Security forces have responded with tear gas, metal pellets and in some cases live fire, according to rights groups and widely shared footage, although the scope of the crackdown remains unclear. Iran's state TV has reported the death toll from violent clashes between protesters and security officers could be as high as 41. Rights groups have given higher death counts, with London-based Amnesty International saying it has identified 52 victims. An untold number of people have been apprehended, with local officials reporting at least 1,500 arrests. Security forces have picked up artists who have voiced support for the protests and dozens of journalists. Most recently Sunday, authorities arrested Alborz Nezami, a reporter at an economic newspaper in Tehran. Iran's intelligence ministry said nine foreigners have been detained over the protests. A 30-year-old Italian traveler named Alessia Piperno called her parents on Sunday to say she had been arrested, her father Alberto Piperno told Italian news agency ANSA. "We are very worried," he said. "The situation isn't going well." Most of the protesters appear to be under 25, according to witnesses Iranians who have grown up knowing little but global isolation and severe Western sanctions linked to Iran's nuclear program. Talks to revive the landmark 2015 nuclear deal have stalled for months, fueling discontent as Iran's currency declines in value and prices soar. A Tehran-based university teacher, Shahindokht Kharazmi, said the new generation has come up with unpredictable ways to defy authorities. "The [young protesters] have learned the strategy from video games and play to win," Kharazmi told the pro-reform Etemad newspaper. "There is no such thing as defeat for them." As the new academic year began this week, students at universities in major cities across Iran gathered in protest, according to videos widely shared on social media, clapping, chanting slogans against the government and waving their headscarves. The eruption of student anger has worried the Islamic Republic since at least 1999, when security forces and supporters of hard-line clerics attacked students protesting media restrictions. That wave of student protests under former reformist President Mohammad Khatami touched off the worst street battles since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. "Don't call it a protest, it's a revolution now," shouted students at Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, as women set their hijabs alight. "Students are awake, they hate the leadership!" chanted crowds at the University of Mazandaran in the country's north. Riot police have been out in force, patrolling streets near universities on motorbikes. For full coverage of the crisis in Ukraine, visit Flashpoint Ukraine. The latest developments in Russias war on Ukraine. All times EDT. 10:55 p.m.: Britain has the "strategic endurance" to stand by Ukraine until the war with Russia is won, British foreign minister James Cleverly will say on Tuesday, Reuters reported. Britain has been one of Kyiv's most vocal international backers sending thousands of anti-tank weapons, hundreds of missiles and armored fighting vehicles as well as training Ukrainian soldiers. In a speech to the ruling Conservative Party conference, Cleverly will say that the British were not "commentators" on world events but "players on the pitch," believing that aggressors could not invade their neighbors with impunity. "This is why we stand shoulder to shoulder with those brave Ukrainians defending their homeland. And Britain has the strategic endurance to see them through to victory," Cleverly will say according to extracts of his speech released by the Conservatives. 9:20 p.m.: Serhiy Volynskyy was one of the military commanders of the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol. Ukrainian fighters holed up in the heavily fortified plant and withstood a month of Russian attacks before finally surrendering. He was recently released after spending months in Russian captivity. VOA's Lesia Bakalets talked to his wife, Ruslana Volynska. Anna Rice narrates her story. 8:36 p.m.: 7:25 p.m.: The Biden administration's next security assistance package for Ukraine is expected to include four High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers, munitions, mines and mine-resistant vehicles, two sources briefed on the $625 million package told Reuters. The package, expected to be announced as soon as Tuesday, is the first aid package since Russia's most recent declared annexation of Ukrainian territory and the second Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) since Ukraine made large battlefield gains in mid-September. Russia's declared annexations followed what it called referendums in occupied areas of Ukraine. Western governments and Kyiv said the votes breached international law and were coercive and non-representative. 6:40 p.m.: A Russian court on Monday set Oct. 25 as the date for American basketball star Brittney Griners appeal against her nine-year prison sentence for drug possession, The Associated Press reported. Griner, an eight-time all-star center with the WNBAs Phoenix Mercury and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, was convicted Aug. 4 after police said they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage at Moscows Sheremetyevo Airport. The Moscow region court said it will hear her appeal. 5:57 p.m.: Russian President Vladimir Putins military draft changed everything for the tens of thousands of Russians who have fled their country since the mobilization was announced last month, according to recent arrivals in Istanbul, The Associated Press reported. Eva Rapoport, the Istanbul coordinator for The Ark, a group helping Russians fleeing their country, said there had been a significant increase in the numbers arriving in Turkey since Putins mobilization declaration. While those who left Russia in the immediate aftermath of its February invasion of Ukraine were a well-educated, Western-oriented, cosmopolitan crowd, now her organization was seeing just about everyone who can escape the country. Many of these people used to support Putin, they used to cheer for the war, she said. When it was from the safety of their homes and there was nothing at stake for them it was fine. But now they dont want to support this by their actions. They dont want to support it with their lives. They dont want to go and fight and die in this war. Likening the situation to the aftermath of Russias 1917 revolution, when hundreds of thousands of white Russians found refuge in Istanbul while fleeing the Bolsheviks, Rapoport said those fleeing felt they no longer had a future in their homeland. 5:01 p.m.: 4:09 p.m.: More than half a century after gangrene claimed his legs up to his hips and all of his fingers, Hryhoriy Yanchenko joined the Ukrainian resistance to Russia's invasion, Reuters reported. Now 75, he put on the blue-striped jersey and sky-blue beret of the Soviet paratroop unit in which he served and drove his electric mobility cart through the occupied southern city of Kherson collecting donations. He said that, with a speaker at his side playing Ukraine's national anthem, he collected more than 600,000 hryvnias ($16,400) over six months before fleeing in September to the Ukrainian-controlled city of Zaporizhzhia. The cash - including some inadvertently donated by Russian soldiers - has been used by a Ukrainian group to buy sniper scopes, rifle accessories, clothing and vehicles to ferry Ukrainian troops to frontlines, he said. 3:15 p.m.: Europe faces unprecedented risks to its natural gas supplies this winter after Russia cut off most pipeline shipments and could wind up competing with Asia for already scarce and expensive liquid gas that comes by ship, The Associated Press reported. The Paris-based International Energy Agency said in its quarterly gas report released Monday that European Union countries would need to reduce use by 13% over the winter in case of a complete Russian cutoff amid the war in Ukraine. Much of that cutback would have to come from consumer behavior such as turning down thermostats by 1 degree and adjusting boiler temperatures as well as industrial and utility conservation, the group said. The EU on Friday agreed to mandate a reduction in electricity consumption by at least 5% during peak price hours. 2:30 p.m.: 2 p.m.: The U.S. Supreme Court has sided with the Russian oil company Tatneft in a dispute with Ukraine over the payment of a multimillion-dollar judgment awarded years ago by an arbitration panel, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported. The high court on Monday did not comment on the case except to say that it would not hear it. The decision, a win for one of Russia's largest oil companies as Moscow continues to wage war in Ukraine, means the case will continue in U.S. lower courts, which also have sided with the company and have declined to dismiss it. A U.S. District Court judge ruled in Tatneft's favor in 2020, and an appeals court in Washington subsequently affirmed the enforcement of the judgment. In its decision on Monday, the Supreme Court turned away Ukraine's attempt to avoid a Paris-based arbitration panel's order saying the Ukrainian government must pay a $173 million judgment to Tatneft. The panel was established by the parties to consider Tatneft's accusations of Ukrainian wrongdoing over the handling of shares in an oil refinery. 1:35 p.m.: People in the Ukrainian capital are making preparations for a possible nuclear strike amid strong suggestions that Moscow is considering such an attack as its military falters. Some residents of Kyiv have stocked up on iodine tablets to help treat radiation poisoning while others are using a dose of humor to cope with the threat of nuclear war. Current Time, a co-production between Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and VOA, has this report. 1:20 p.m.: A record 83% of Ukrainians would like their country to join NATO, a Kyiv-based opinion pollster said on Monday, citing a survey conducted after Kyiv applied to join the military bloc, Reuters reported. The October 1-2 poll of 2,000 respondents by Rating Group was conducted after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Friday that Ukraine was submitting an expedited application for NATO membership. Rating Group said the percentage of those supporting NATO membership was the highest ever recorded by a survey in Ukraine. Only 4% said they would vote against joining the bloc and 9% said they would not vote. 1:05 p.m.: The head of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in Ukraine has been released, U.N. nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Monday. 12:45 p.m.: The International Monetary Fund said on Monday that up to 20 countries, many in Africa, could need emergency assistance to cope with the global food crisis, Reuters reported. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, speaking at a conference in Saudi Arabia, also said that 141 million people across the Arab world are exposed to food insecurity. The IMF on Friday approved a new food shock borrowing window under its existing emergency financing instruments to help vulnerable countries cope with food shortages and high costs stemming from Russia's war in Ukraine. 12:25 p.m.: 12:10 p.m.: The Joint Expeditionary Force group of northern European nations will meet Monday to discuss the safety of undersea pipelines and cables after blasts ruptured two natural gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea, The Associated Press reported. British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said the virtual meeting has been called by the U.K. and the Netherlands. The force brings together troops from 10 countries, including the Baltic and Nordic nations, and has seen its importance increase since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February. Wallace also said Britain will acquire two specialist ships to protect undersea cables and pipes, with the first multi-role survey ship for seabed warfare operational by the end of next year. Undersea blasts that damaged the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines last week have led to huge methane leaks. Nordic investigators said the blasts involved several hundred pounds of explosives. 11:50 a.m.: 11:35 a.m.: White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby says Ukraine has made gains in the northeast of the country where they are pushing up against the Luhansk region, and he said they are making gains in the south, too, The Associated Press reported. Theyre absolutely on the move here, Kirby said on ABCs Good Morning America program. And like youve heard President Biden saying, were going to continue to make sure we can give them the weapons and capabilities so they can continue that sign of progress. 11:20 a.m.: Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak on Monday condemned attempts by Russia to automatically give Ukrainians in occupied territories Russian passports and frighten civilians there with stories of persecution if Ukraine re-takes the territory. 11:00 a.m.: Countries across Europe are ramping up diplomatic pressure on Moscow in condemnation of Russias attempt to illegally annex an additional four Ukrainian regions through referendums widely seen as sham events, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported. Lithuania on Monday said it had declared Russia's envoy to the Baltic state persona non grata in the wake of last week's votes in four Ukrainian regions where Moscow has wrested at least partial control. The Kremlin used the votes as a pretense to then illegally seize the regions. The Finnish Foreign Ministry in Helsinki said in a tweet on Monday that it had summoned the Russian ambassador "to express the strongest condemnation of the referendums and the subsequent announcement of the "illegal annexation of occupied Ukrainian regions by Russia, a blatant violation of Ukraines sovereignty, territorial integrity and the UN Charter." In Warsaw, Polands Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz told TVN24 on Monday that Russia's ambassador had been summoned to discuss "Russias actions last week." The Czech Republics Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Monday calling on Czech citizens to leave Russia as soon as possible due to a "worsening of security" in Russia for citizens of the European Union and NATO member-states. 10:45 a.m.: 10:25 a.m.: European Union member states have agreed to host training for up to 15,000 Ukrainian soldiers as soon as possible, Spiegel magazine reported on Monday, according to Reuters. According to the plan, whose final details will be negotiated in Brussels next week, Poland will receive EU funds to set up a headquarters for the scheme while some parts will be run in other EU states, Spiegel added, citing EU sources. Germany plans to offer troop training at a combat simulation center, while Ukrainian engineers, medics and other specialists will be also be trained in the country, the magazine said. 10:10 a.m.: The Russian military on Monday acknowledged that Kyivs forces have broken through Moscows defenses in the Kherson region, The Associated Press reported. Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said in his daily briefing that with superior tank units in the direction of Zolotaya Balka, Aleksandrovka, the enemy managed to penetrate into the depths of our defense. Konashenkov added that Russian troops have occupied a pre-prepared defensive line and continue to inflict massive fire damage on Kyivs forces. 9:55 a.m.: Russia's Gazprom said on Monday that gas had stopped leaking from three ruptured Nord Stream gas lines under the Baltic, and that it might be possible to resume pumping through the remaining single line, Reuters reported. In a statement, it said the pressure in the three lines had stabilized and it was working to reduce environmental risks. Nord Stream 1 reported a significant pressure drop on both of its lines, presumed to be caused by ruptures, while Nord Stream 2 reported a similar sharp pressure drop in its 'A' line. Gazprom said Nord Stream 2's 'B' line could still export gas to Europe, if a decision were made to start deliveries. But the recently completed Nord Stream 2 has never come online, since Germany, where it makes landfall, froze the authorization process as Russia was preparing to invade Ukraine. "If a decision is made to start deliveries through Nord Stream 2's line B, natural gas will be pumped into the pipeline after the integrity of the system has been checked and verified by supervisory authorities," it said. 9:40 a.m.: Most of Europe's leaders will gather for two meetings in Prague this week to discuss the war in Ukraine and the hard winter ahead. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty takes a closer look at what to expect. 9:20 a.m.: Reuters reports that the withdrawal of Russian forces from a strategically important town in eastern Ukraine has prompted two powerful allies of President Vladimir Putin to do something rare in modern Russia: publicly ridicule the war machine's top brass. Russia's loss of the bastion of Lyman, which puts western parts of Luhansk region under threat, touched a nerve for Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of the southern Russian republic of Chechnya. "Nepotism in the army will lead to no good," Kadyrov said, adding that the commander of Russian forces in the area should be stripped of his medals and sent to the front line with a gun to wash away his shame with blood. Asked about Kadyrov's remarks, the powerful founder of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, Yevgeny Prigozhin, congratulated the Chechen leader. "Ramzan - you rock man!" Prigozhin, known as Putin's chef due to his company's Kremlin catering contracts, said in a statement. "All these bastards should be sent barefoot to the front with automatic guns." When asked if his words should be considered criticism of the defense ministry, Prigozhin doused his reply with irony: "God forbid." Such public contempt for the generals running Russia's war is significant because it indicates the level of frustration within Putin's elite over the conduct of the war while also piercing the Kremlin's carefully controlled narrative. 9:05 a.m.: In its latest report, The Institute for the Study of War focuses on the dramatic changes in the Russian information space following recent Russian battlefield defeats in Ukraine, and Russias continuing failures with its partial mobilization effort at home. 8:50 a.m.: Ukrainian forces achieved their biggest breakthrough in the south of the country since the war began, bursting through the front and advancing rapidly along the Dnipro River on Monday, threatening supply lines for thousands of Russian troops, Reuters reported. Kyiv gave no official confirmation of the gains, but Russian sources acknowledged that a Ukrainian tank offensive had advanced dozens of kilometers along the river's west bank, recapturing a number of villages along the way. The breakthrough mirrors recent Ukrainian successes in the east that have turned the tide in the war against Russia, even as Moscow has tried to raise the stakes by annexing territory, ordering mobilization and threatening nuclear retaliation. "The information is tense, let's put it that way, because, yes there were indeed breakthroughs," Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed leader in occupied parts of Ukraine's Kherson province told Russian state television. While Kyiv maintained almost complete silence, as it has in the past during major offensives, some officials did describe what they referred to as unconfirmed reports of gains. Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to Ukraine's interior ministry, posted a photo of Ukrainian soldiers posing with their flag draping a golden statue of an angel. He said it was the village of Mikhailivka, around 20 km beyond the previous front. 8:30 a.m.: 8:10 a.m.: The lower house of Russia's parliament approved laws on Monday on annexing four occupied Ukrainian territories into Russia, following hastily organized votes that Ukraine and the West denounced as coercive and illegitimate, Reuters reported. No lawmakers in the State Duma voted against the resolutions, which sought to formally incorporate Ukraine's Kherson, Donetsk, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia regions into Russia. "The decision was taken unanimously. There are 89 entities in the Russian Federation," parliament speaker Vyacheslav Volodin posted on Telegram, along with a map of Russia including the four regions, as well as Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine without international recognition in 2014. 7:45 a.m.: Russia has funds to support four Ukrainian regions which President Vladimir Putin began annexing last week and these funds are part of the country's budget, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov told parliament, according to Reuters. Russia declared the annexations of the regions after holding what it called referendums in occupied areas of Ukraine. Western governments and Kyiv said the votes breached international law and were coercive and non-representative. Priority for the next three years will be the full integration of the new regions," Siluanov said, without saying how much would be spent. "The federal budget has necessary resources for this, both for the current provision of social standards... as well as funds for the economic restoration of the new regions of the Russian Federation." 7:20 a.m.: The Kremlin says no final decision has been made on the territory of two of the four regions it plans to incorporate into Russia, The Associated Press reported Monday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Donetsk and Luhansk regions would joining Russia as defined by administrative borders that existed before a conflict erupted there in 2014. He noted that the issue of the borders of the two other regions Zaporizhzhia and Kherson remains open. We will continue to discuss that with residents of those regions, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed treaties on Friday to make the four regions part of Russia in a move rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies. The lower house of Kremlin-controlled parliament is set to ratify the treaties Monday and the upper house will follow Tuesday. Russia controls virtually all of the Luhansk region and about 60 percent of the Donetsk region that together makes Ukraines eastern industrial heartland of Donbas. In the south, Russia controls most of the Kherson region and a significant part of the Zaporizhzhia region. 7:15 a.m.: Norway's military said on Monday it had posted soldiers to help guard major onshore oil and gas processing plants, part of a wider effort to boost security amid suspicion that sabotage caused leaks in the Nord Stream gas pipelines last week, Reuters reported. Russia's Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines burst on September 26, draining gas into the Baltic Sea off the coast of Denmark and Sweden. Seismologists registered explosions in the area, and police in several countries have launched investigations. Norway, Europe's largest gas supplier and a major oil exporter, last week deployed its navy and air force to patrol offshore petroleum fields and announced it would receive assistance from Britain, Germany and France in doing so. At the request of Norwegian police, the Norwegian Home Guard, a rapid mobilization force, on Monday began to deploy troops at plants responsible for processing and exporting oil and gas. Although the Norwegian government has said it was not aware of any specific threats to oil and gas infrastructure, it still found it prudent to beef up security and sought to calm concerns among workers. Among the onshore facilities receiving police and military protection on Monday were the Kollsnes and Nyhamna gas export terminals, the Kaarstoe gas and condensate plant and the Mongstad oil refinery. A spokesperson for the armed forces declined to say how many soldiers were deployed, citing security concerns. 6:50 a.m.: Sweden has sent a vessel capable of advanced diving missions to the Baltic Sea area where ruptured undersea pipelines had leaked natural gas for days, the Swedish navy said Monday, according to The Associated Press. Last week, undersea blasts damaged the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines off southern Sweden and Denmark and have led to huge methane leaks, with those governments saying that several hundred pounds of explosives was involved. The emissions leaks occurred in international waters. Capt. Jimmie Adamsson, a spokesman for the Swedish navy, told The Associated Press that a submarine rescue ship had been sent to the site of the leaks off Sweden and was supporting the Swedish coast guard, which is in charge of the work. It was unclear when anyone or anything would be able to go down to the pipelines, either divers or a submarine. The coast guard said one of its vessels, Amfritrite, was at the site to monitor nearby sea traffic. It added that bad weather is expected, which will complicate the situation. 6:40 a.m.: Authorities in Denmark said that the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipelines have stopped leaking, a day after officials said that the ruptured Nord Stream 2 pipelines also appeared to stop leaking, The Associated Press reported. The Nord Stream AG company informed the Danish Energy Agency that a stable pressure now appears to have been achieved on the Nord Stream 1 pipelines. The Nord Stream AG company has informed the Danish Energy Agency that a stable pressure now appears to have been achieved on the two Nord Stream 1 pipelines. This indicates that the blowout of gas from the last two leaks has now also been completed, the Danish agency tweeted Sunday. The Danish agency said Saturday the Nord Stream 2 ruptured natural gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea appears to have stopped leaking natural gas. Undersea blasts that damaged the Nord Stream I and 2 pipelines this week have led to huge methane leaks. Nordic investigators said the blasts have involved several hundred pounds of explosives. 6:30 a.m.: 6:20 a.m.: The Kremlin on Monday said it favored a "balanced approach" to the issue of nuclear weapons, not based on emotion, after a key ally of President Vladimir Putin called over the weekend for Russia to use a "low-yield nuclear weapon" in Ukraine Reuters reported. Asked about the comments by Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of the Chechnya region, who also criticized Russia's military leadership over battlefield setbacks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had the right to voice his opinion, but that Russia's military approach should not be driven by emotions. Peskov said the basis for any use of nuclear weapons was set down in Russia's nuclear doctrine. 6 a.m.: Ukrainian forces made further gains Monday in the Kherson region in the countrys south, adding to their gains in the east in recent days as they push a counteroffensive against Russia. Russia-installed officials in Kherson said Ukraines military had recaptured some settlements in Kherson. The region is one of four that Russia illegally claimed last week it annexed to be Russian territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly address Sunday that his forces in Kherson had liberated the settlements of Arkhanhelske and Myroliubivka. The developments in Kherson followed Sundays announcement by Ukrainian forces that they had retaken full control of Lyman, the eastern logistics hub that is also within territory Russia claimed last week was its own. 5:25 a.m.: The Kremlin said on Monday that it will consult with residents living in two of the Ukrainian regions it moved to annex last week Kherson and Zaporizhzhia on how their borders should be defined, Reuters reported. "We will continue to consult with people who live in these areas," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Russia formally claimed to annex four Ukrainian territories last week, but none are fully under the control of Moscow's forces and Ukraine continues to advance in the south 4:25 a.m.: Prominent Russian journalist Ksenia Sobchak faces a criminal investigation over a story that police suspect was fake, Reuters reported Monday, citing an unidentified source in law enforcement who spoke to state news agency TASS. Sobchak, whose late father was the mayor of St Petersburg in the 1990s and worked closely with Vladimir Putin, hosts a YouTube channel with over 3 million subscribers. She also founded a popular Telegram account which regularly shares stories critical of Russia's mobilization efforts. TASS reported that Sobchak's story related to "state funding of festivals" and that she could be charged under an article of Russian law that provides for three-year jail sentences. Neither Sobchak, 40, nor representatives of her news site immediately responded to a Reuters request for comment on the TASS report. Sobchak has so far avoided prosecution, but authorities have scrutinized her in the past for sharing so-called "LGBT propaganda" and declaring that Crimea was still Ukrainian after its annexation by Russia in 2014. Since invading Ukraine in February, Russia has cracked down on independent media and prosecuted numerous journalists for spreading fake news about what it calls its special military operation. 3:45 a.m.: 3 a.m.: Russian gas producer Gazprom said on Monday its supply of gas to Europe through Ukraine via the Sudzha entry point was 41.8 million cubic meters on Monday, compared with 41.7 million cubic meters on Sunday, Reuters reported. An application to supply gas via the Sokhranovka entry point had again been rejected by Ukraine, Gazprom said. 2:30 a.m.: An investigation by The Associated Press and the PBS series Frontline has documented a sophisticated Russian-run smuggling operation that has used falsified manifests and seaborne subterfuge to steal Ukrainian grain worth at least $530 million. The AP and Frontline used satellite imagery and marine radio transponder data to track three dozen ships making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to ports in the Middle East. The ongoing theft is being carried out by wealthy businessmen and state-owned companies in Russia and Syria. Some of them already face financial sanctions from the United States and European Union. Legal experts say the theft is a potential war crime. 2:10 a.m. The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defense tweets an update on the situation in Ukraine. 1:30 a.m.: The military commissar of Russia's Khabarovsk region was removed from his post, the region's governor said early on Monday, after half of the newly mobilized personnel were sent home as they did not meet the draft criteria, Reuters reported. Russia's first mobilization since World War II, declared by President Vladimir Putin on September 21, has led to widespread discontent among officials and citizens over the way the draft has been handled, including complaints about enlistment officers sending call-up papers to clearly ineligible men. "In 10 days, several thousand of our countrymen received summons and arrived at the military registration and enlistment offices," Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russia's Far East, said in a video post on the Telegram messaging app. "About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service." Degtyarev said the removal of the commissar, Yuri Laiko, would not affect the mobilization plan set by Putin. The chaotic mobilization of men to fight in Ukraine has also prompted thousands of fighting-age men to flee from the country to avoid a draft that was billed as enlisting those with military experience and specialties but has often appeared oblivious to service records, health, student status and even age. Some 2,000 people have been arrested at anti-war protests in more than 30 towns and cities, and some of them promptly given call-up papers something the Kremlin said was perfectly legal. 12:30 a.m.: Germany, Denmark and Norway will supply 16 armored car artillery guns from next year to Ukraine, which is seeking to bolster its heavy military arsenal to fend off Russia, Berlin said, according to Agence France-Presse. This announcement follows a visit this weekend to Ukraine by German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht, a first since the Russian invasion launched on February 24. The three supplier countries have agreed to finance together the delivery of Zuzana-2 guns, of Slovak manufacture, for a cost of 92 million euros, specified the Ministry of Defense in Berlin. Ukraine is expected to start receiving them in 2023. 12:03 a.m.: In southern Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's hometown of Krivyi Rih came under Russian attack by a suicide drone that destroyed two stories of a school early Sunday, the regional governor said, according to The Associated Press. The Ukrainian air force said Sunday it shot down five Iranian-made drones overnight, while two others made it through air defenses. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. In Cameroon, thousands of people are marching to call for peace in the country's separatist conflict. The daily peace marches, which began on Friday and are slated to continue through Tuesday, come on the third anniversary of talks designed to end the fighting. Marchers say authorities need to do more to return peace to the restive western regions, where fighting has killed about 3,500 people since 2017. The protesters, a majority of them women, say hardly a day goes by without cases of killings, abduction, rape and torching of public edifices in the Northwest and Southwest regions. Monday's peace march was organized by a non-governmental organization called Cameroon, Peace and National Unity. Its president, Clementine Mvogo, said the peace march marks the third anniversary of government-organized peace talks called the Major National Dialogue. The culture of peace is still very much absent in Cameroon since the holding in Yaounde of a Major National Dialogue from September 30 to October 4 2019. The ongoing peace march in Yaounde is to make the quest for peace a daily struggle of all Cameroonians. All civilians and civil society movements should be concerned about the return of peace to Cameroon, Mvogo said. After that dialogue, Cameroons President Paul Biya implemented recommendations to give the Northwest and Southwest regions more power, including the creation of regional assemblies and elected regional presidents. Zacchaeus Bakuma Elango, president of the Southwest regional assembly, said outreach efforts to the armed separatist groups continue. SEE ALSO: Cameroonian Women Say They Are Underrepresented in Peace Talks "We're doing everything we can to convince them to lay down their arms and come to the negotiation table. We have families who have been displaced, children who have not gone to schools for five years, so what becomes of them? Are we coming up with a generation of semi-illiterates? said Elango. Elango said some people have realized that war is not the answer. As the years go by, more and more people are beginning to understand that we are in the same country. There were problems and those problems progressively are being addressed and the situation is improving." As evidence of that, he notes that tens of thousands of people who fled the fighting have returned to Southwest towns and villages in Manyu, Lebialem, Meme, Ndian, Fako and Koupe Manengouba administrative units. Elango said several hundred schools sealed by fighters in the region have been reopened. The government says after the dialogue, powers were given to a national commission for the promotion of bilingualism to give equal status to the English and French languages, in order to reduce domination by the French-speaking majority. David Abouem a Tchoyi, a member of the commission, said the conflict still persists because many separatist leaders refused to take part in the dialogue. "I regret bitterly that some of our brothers and sisters, especially those who are abroad, couldn't be part of that jamboree. When I read the recommendations, I saw some of them which could be game changers and I think it is important to note that the head of state said that the recommendations should be implemented according to the means and the capabilities of the state." Three years on, the prospects for peace talks remain stalled. Some separatist groups say they are not ready for any dialogue, while others say the talks should be held outside Cameroon. Separatist leaders based in Europe and the United States have expressed concern they will be arrested on charges of terrorism if they come home for peace talks. Cameroon maintains that the 2019 dialogue was successful and no talks will be organized outside the country. The stalemate doesnt bode well for peace in the western regions, and suggests that Yaounde will see more marches like the ones taking place this week. The City of Buffalo is turning to a new cyber security platform to protect it against ransomware attacks and digital viruses. And it wont cost the city a thing. Buffalo will be partnering with CrowdStrike as part of a shared services program created by Gov. Kathy Hochul, the New York State Office of Information Technology Services and the states Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. The Joint Security Operations Center was launched earlier this year to serve as the center for a collaborative response to local, state and federal cyber security efforts, and $30 million was put toward assisting municipalities across the state with cyber security technology. Buffalo is the first beneficiary of that funding. As part of the shared services program, New Yorks counties and the states initial JSOC partners will be offered CrowdStrike endpoint detection and response services at no cost. That will save the city $75,000 per year. In this digitized world, we have a responsibility to protect ourselves, our residents and the partners we interact with from viruses and ransomware, Mayor Byron Brown said. Buffalo is proud to be the first municipality to implement CrowdStrike. Brown, along with New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, Rochester Mayor Malik Evans, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and cyber leaders across the state, are part of the cyber command center that will provide a statewide view of the cyber-threat landscape, according to a news release. The program is also intended to improve coordination on threat intelligence and incident response. It will not, however, cover cyber security efforts for Buffalo Public Schools, which, in 2021, was the latest victim in a growing number of cyberattacks targeting school districts across the U.S. That ransomware attack forced the district to cancel classes for a few days until employees could restore key systems and equipment, but the district reportedly did not pay the ransom. A spokesperson for the city said the new program only includes municipalities and not school districts, at this time. This years Nobel Prize in Medicine was awarded to a Swedish scientist for decoding the DNA of the Neanderthal, modern humans closet extinct relative. In a statement Monday the Nobel Organization said Svante Paabo is being honored for pioneering a new approach to study our evolutionary history. The 67-year-old Swede overcame the extreme technical challenges of handling fragile, ancient DNA samples to succeed in obtaining the genome sequence, the organization said. This was followed, according to the statement, by his sensational discovery of another extinct hominin, the Denisova, entirely from genome data retrieved from a small finger bone specimen. Paabos work proved that Homo sapiens, Neanderthals and Denisovans mixed during periods of co-existence, resulting in the inclusion of archaic DNA in present-day humans. Paabo is affiliated with the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, in Leipzig, Germany, and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, in Okinawa, Japan. The prize for Medicine is the first of five to be awarded this week, which will culminate with the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday. The Economics Prize follows on October 10. It is the only prize not created under Swedish inventor Alfred Nobels will. The formal Nobel Prize ceremony will be held in December in Stockholm. Burkina Faso's ousted coup leader Lt. Col. Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba left the country for Togo Sunday two days after he himself was overthrown in a coup, while the new junta urged citizens not to loot or vandalize. Damiba's departure was confirmed by two diplomats who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. It was not known whether Togo was his final destination. Earlier Sunday, religious leaders who had mediated between the factions said that Damiba had offered his resignation as long as his security and other conditions were met. A junta representative later announced on state television that their leader, Capt. Ibrahim Traore, officially has been named head of state following the Friday coup that ousted Damiba. Their power grab marked Burkina Faso's second military coup this year, deepening fears that the political chaos could divert attention from an Islamic insurgency whose violence has killed thousands and forced 2 million to flee their homes. It followed unrest in Ouagadougou, the capital, in which mobs on Saturday attacked the French embassy and other French-related sites, wrongly believing that they were sheltering Damiba. Along with agreeing not to harm or prosecute him, Damiba also asked Traore and the new junta leadership to respect the commitments already made to the West African regional bloc ECOWAS. Damiba, who came to power in a coup last January, had recently reached an agreement to hold an election by 2024. In a statement late Sunday, ECOWAS said it would be sending a team of mediators to Ouagadougou on Monday including former Niger President Mahamadou Issoufou. The ECOWAS statement, signed by Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, noted that Damiba had resigned "in order to avoid a violent confrontation and possible bloodshed." Earlier in the day, the new junta leadership had called for an end to the unrest that engulfed Ouagadouou in wake of Friday night's coup. In a statement broadcast on state television, junta representative Capt. Kiswendsida Farouk Azaria Sorgho called on people to "desist from any act of violence and vandalism" especially those against the French Embassy or the French military base. Anti-French sentiment rose sharply after the new junta alleged that interim president Damiba was sheltering at a French military base following his ouster. France vehemently denied the allegation, but soon protesters with torches thronged the perimeter of the French Embassy in Ouagadougou. Saturday's violence was condemned by the French Foreign Ministry, which denied any involvement in the rapidly developing events. French Institutes in Ouagadougou and the country's second-largest city, Bobo-Dioulasso, had also been targeted and French citizens were urged to be very cautious. "The situation is very volatile in Burkina Faso," a French spokeswoman told The Associated Press on Sunday. Damiba came to power in January promising to secure the country from jihadi violence. However, the situation only deteriorated as jihadis imposed blockades on towns and have intensified attacks. Last week, at least 11 soldiers were killed and 50 civilians went missing after a supply convoy was attacked by gunmen in Gaskinde commune in the Sahel. The group of officers led by Traore said Friday that Damiba had failed and was being removed. To some in Burkina Faso's military, Damiba also was seen as too cozy with former colonizer France, which maintains a military presence in Africa's Sahel region to help countries fight Islamic extremists. Some who support the new coup leader, Traore, have called on Burkina Faso's government to seek Russian support instead. Outside the state broadcaster on Sunday, supporters of Traore were seen cheering and waving Russian flags. In neighboring Mali, the coup leader has invited Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group to help with security, a move than has drawn global condemnation and accusations of human rights abuses. Conflict analysts say Damiba was probably too optimistic about what he could achieve in the short term but that a change at the top didn't mean that the country's security situation would improve. "The problems are too profound and the crisis is deeply rooted," said Heni Nsaibia, a senior researcher at the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, adding that "militant groups will most likely continue to exploit" the country's political disarray. The emergency ward at the main government hospital in Sehwan, a small town in southern Pakistan, is overwhelmed. On a recent visit, Reuters witnessed hundreds of people crammed into rooms and corridors, desperately seeking treatment for malaria and other illnesses that are spreading fast after the country's worst floods in decades. Amid the crush, Naveed Ahmed, a young doctor in the emergency response department of the Abdullah Shah Institute of Health Sciences, is surrounded by five or six people trying to get his attention. The 30-year-old keeps his cool as stretched emergency services struggle to cope with thousands of patients arriving from miles around after their homes were submerged under water when heavy rains fell in August and September. "We become so overworked at times that I feel like collapsing and going on an intravenous drip," a smiling Ahmed told Reuters as he sipped a cup of tea in the hospital's canteen during a short break. "But it's because of the prayers of these patients that we keep going." Hundreds seek clinic help daily Ahmed is on the frontline of the battle to limit sickness and death across southern Pakistan, where hundreds of towns and villages were cut off by rising waters. The deluge has affected around 33 million people in a country of 220 million. Most of the estimated 300-400 patients arriving at his clinic each morning, many of them children, are suffering from malaria and diarrhea, although with winter approaching, Ahmed fears other illnesses will become more common. "I hope people displaced by the floods can get back to their homes before winter; (if not) they will be exposed to respiratory illnesses and pneumonia living in tents," he said. Hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis who fled their homes are living in government camps set up to accommodate them, or simply out in the open. Stagnant floodwaters, spread over hundreds of square kilometers, may take two to six months to recede in some places, and have already led to widespread cases of skin and eye infections, diarrhea, malaria, typhoid and dengue fever. The crisis hits Pakistan at a particularly bad time. With its economy in crisis, propped up by loans from the International Monetary Fund, it does not have the resources to cope with the longer-term effects of the flooding. Nearly 1,700 people have been killed in the floods caused by heavy monsoon rains and melting glaciers. Pakistan estimates the cost of the damage at $30 billion, and the government and United Nations have blamed the catastrophe on climate change. Over 340 people have died of diseases caused by the floods, authorities have said. Concerns about 'second disaster' According to the health department of Sindh province, the worst-affected region, 17,285 cases of malaria have been confirmed since July 1. Anticipating the risk of disease outbreaks after the rescue and relief phase of the floods, the Sindh government is trying to hire more than 5,000 health professionals on a temporary basis in districts most at risk. "We are short of human resources considering the magnitude of the burden of disease following the unprecedented rains and floods," Qasim Soomro, provincial lawmaker and parliamentary health secretary of the Sindh government, told Reuters. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concern about an impending "second disaster" of water-borne diseases spreading across the country, particularly in Sindh. In the hospital ward in Sehwan, a young man with a high fever was having fits on a bed outside the main emergency room. His mother ran to Ahmed, who attended the patient and asked a male nurse to place cold pads on his forehead. The air was heavy with humidity, and there were not enough air conditioners to cool temperatures in overcrowded corridors lined with beds. The wards were filled to capacity and a handful of beds had more than one patient on them. Ahmed, a graduate of a university in China, described the pressure he and other medics were under. "With such influx, we ... cannot wait for test results for each patient to start the treatment," he said, adding he begins administering medicine for malaria as soon as he sees some symptoms. The institute in Sehwan serves people from neighboring towns and districts, including those living in camps while the waters recede and rebuilding can begin. Jagan Shahani's daughter fell unconscious after getting a fever around a week ago. He used a boat to get out of his flooded village of Bhajara and flagged down a car on the nearby road that took them to Sehwan. "Doctors said she had malaria," he said late last week. "This is our fourth night here. There is nothing here to eat but Allah has been very kind to provide everything," added Shahani, whose 15-year-old daughter Hameeda is now recovering. On the outskirts of town, hundreds of displaced people queued up for rations being distributed at Lal Bagah, a tent settlement where displaced families prepared tea and breakfast on open fires. The Indus Highway that runs past Sehwan is dotted with tent camps for displaced people. Some are beginning to return home where waters have retreated far enough, but not all are so lucky. "There is no one here to help me but Allah. I pray to Allah that the waters recede in my village, and I can return to my home," said Madad Ali Bozdar. Bozdar, 52, is from Bubak, a town located on the north-eastern bank of Manchar Lake. Speaking on Friday, he said his village was still under 3-4 meters of water. He expected to be able to go back in around two months' time. On Sunday afternoon and throughout last night, large groups of protesters took to the streets of Burkina Fasos capital Ouagadougou, attacking the French embassy, burning tires and waving Russian flags. Chaos has descended on the city after a new military junta claimed power Friday but appears to lack full control of the country. Explosions and gunfire outside the French embassy in Ouagadougou Sunday afternoon. Protesters had been filling the streets of the capital since the evening before when they began burning projectiles and throwing stones over the embassy walls. On social media, call-outs from unknown sources encouraged the protesters to take to the streets and prevent France from reversing Fridays military coup in the country. Both the new junta and the French embassy have denied France has any involvement in the coup. French forces inside the embassy responded by firing tear gas into the crowd and firing warning shots. VOA spoke to one of the protesters, Ali Nanema. We have to leave the French partnership with which we have been involved since the 1960s with mixed results on the ground," said Nanema. "We have been facing a crisis for seven years but the collaboration with France does not give us satisfactory results. That is why we need another collaboration. Three hundred meters from the embassy, at the prime ministers office, putschists emerged from a commandeered U.N. armored vehicle, waving a Russian flag, causing many on social media to speculate Russia may have had a hand in encouraging Fridays coup. There was no immediate official Russian reaction to the coup. Constantin Gouvy is an analyst with The Clingendael Institute, a Netherlands based think tank. Asked if Russian disinformation could be blamed for events over the weekend, he replied. We have seen widespread disinformation on social media and pro-Russian civil society organizations trying to rally people to protest in recent days," said Gouvy. "Its still early to judge, as to how much influence this has had and if it added fuel to the fire, though we cant blame everything on Russian disinformation either. Since yesterday, people have taken to the streets for a host of reasons and grievances. We have seen people unhappy with the worsening security situation. We have supporters on Zoungrana, who led a failed coup attempt in January, but also Sankarists [supporters of a left-wing ideological trend], as well as pro-Russians. Draped in a Burkinabe flag one man outside the embassy told VOA, "Russia will come and save us from the mess we are in because all the countries that worked with Russia have succeeded. This gives us the courage to go toward Russia, in order to overcome the terrorists. Given the insecurity, we thought that Damiba would orient us to Russia... but we have been waiting in vain. Asked how intervention in recent months by mercenaries from Russias Wagner Group had affected the security situation in neighboring Mali, Gouvy said. Wagner's involvement in Mali has made things worse on almost all indicators, said Gouvy. The French Institutes, French government-run cultural centers, in both the countrys second city and the capital were also vandalized by protesters. Protesters wrongly believed a French special forces base on the outskirts of Ouagadougou was sheltering the ousted president Paul Henri Damiba. A news release Sunday afternoon said Damiba signed his resignation. On Saturday, there had been speculation he was planning to launch a counter-offensive against the putschist, as helicopters, still under his control circled the city. Local media has reported he has fled the country to neighboring Togo. Daniel Gnienhoun contributed to this report Reformists who ran on fighting corruption and clientelism in public office appeared set to win an important race in Bosnia's elections Sunday that could give them greater sway over the direction of the country which has never fully recovered from its 1992-95 sectarian war and remains divided along ethnic lines. The first preliminary results released by Bosnia's central election commission early Monday showed cooperation-prone contenders Denis Becirovic and Zeljko Komsic on course to win respective Bosniak and Croat seats in the tripartite presidency. However, the reformists were likely to be joined by Zeljka Cvijanovic from the strongest Bosnian Serb party - the secessionist and staunchly pro-Russian SNSD. Moscow has often been accused by the West of seeking to destabilize the country and the rest of the Balkans through its Serb allies in the region, and the Sunday ballot was held amid growing fears the Kremlin might attempt to reignite the conflict in Bosnia to deflect attention from its campaign in Ukraine. The election included contests for the three members of Bosnia's shared, multiethnic presidency, the president of one of its two highly autonomous parts, and parliament deputies at different, in part overlapping, levels of governance. Bosnia's institutional set-up, often described as one of the most complicated in the world, was introduced by a U.S.-brokered peace agreement that ended the war in the 1990s between its three main ethnic groups - Muslim Bosniaks, Orthodox Serbs and Catholic Croats. Under the terms of the agreement, Bosnia was divided into two highly independent entities - one run by Serbs and the other shared by Bosniaks and Croats - which have broad autonomy but are linked by joint, multi-ethnic institutions. All countrywide actions require consensus from all three ethnic groups. If the preliminary results hold, Cvijanovic will take over the post from her political party's boss, Milorad Dodik, who chose to run for the president of Bosnia's Serb-run part rather than seek a second term in the shared, countrywide presidency. Two contenders claim victory Both Dodik, and his main contender, Jelena Trivic, proclaimed victory in the race for the Bosnian Serb president. Their claims will be tested later Monday, when the election commission is expected to announce preliminary results of the presidential ballot for Bosnia's Serb-run part and the races for parliament deputies at the state, entity and regional levels. Prior to the polls, analysts predicted that the long-entrenched nationalists of all ethnic stripes, who have enriched cronies and ignored the needs of the people, will remain dominant in the legislatures at all levels, largely because the sectarian post-war system of governance leaves pragmatic, reform-minded Bosnians with little incentive to vote. Election turnout on Sunday was 50% or over 2 percentage points down from the 2018 general election. Overseer amends electoral law On Sunday, shortly after the vote count begun, Bosnia's international overseer, Christian Schmidt, announced in a YouTube video that he was amending the country's electoral law to ensure functionality and timely implementation of election results. Schmidt assured citizens in the video that the changes will in no way affect the votes cast on Sunday. The 1995 peace agreement gave broad powers to the international high representative, the post currently held by Schmidt, including the ability to impose laws and to dismiss officials and civil servants who undermine the country's fragile post-war ethnic balance. The changes imposed by Schmidt will affect the size of the parliament of the Bosniak-Croat part of the country, and prevent blockades of the formation of its government. Hurricane Ian is no longer pounding Florida, but the aftermath of its power will be felt for some time. By Sunday night, more than 1,600 people had been rescued statewide and dozens of people were reported dead. Emergency workers are going door-to-door looking for survivors and bodies. Most of the deaths have been recorded in Lee County, which was not in the storms path in the first forecasts for the storms trajectory. Eventually, Ian blew northeastward across Florida to the Atlantic Ocean side of the state and then veered northward and gathered new strength over the warm ocean water and made U.S. landfall a second time in South Carolina. Ians remnants were felt in Virginia also, causing the town of Chincoteague to declare a state of emergency Sunday. Florida Governor Rod DeSantis said Sunday that 42,000 linemen have been deployed in response to the more than 840,000 power outages. He said the linemen have already restored power to more than 1.8 million accounts across the state. Also Sunday, Casey DeSantis, the governors wife, announced the Florida Disaster Fund had raised more than $21 million in 48 hours. The fund, the governors office said, is the State of Floridas official private fund established to provide financial assistance to our communities as they respond to and recover from times of emergency or disaster. This storm was really dangerous, Deanne Criswell, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency told Fox News Sunday. She said one lesson from the storm is that Americans need to understand what their risk is where they choose to live, and that flood insurance is your best bet in protecting a familys assets. U.S. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden will travel to Florida Wednesday, after their Monday trip to Puerto Rico, damaged last month by Hurricane Fiona. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse. Ukrainian forces made further gains Monday in the Kherson region in the country's south, adding to their gains in the east in recent days as they push a counteroffensive against Russia to recapture lands Moscow's forces had claimed earlier in its seven-month invasion. Russia-installed officials in Kherson said Ukraine's military had recaptured some settlements, while the Russian Defense Ministry acknowledged that "with superior tank units," Ukraine had "managed to penetrate into the depths of our defense." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly address Monday that Ukraine's military was moving ahead with its advances. Without providing details, he said the army had seized back towns in several areas "New population centers have been liberated in several regions. Heavy fighting is going on on several sectors of the front," he said. Zelenskyy said Sunday that his forces in Kherson had liberated the settlements of Arkhanhelske and Myroliubivka. Still, a Russian defense spokesman said Moscow's troops "have occupied a pre-prepared defensive line and continue to inflict massive fire damage" on Kyiv's forces. Kherson is one of four regions that Russian President Vladimir Putin illegally annexed last week. A senior U.S. military official said Monday that the U.S. sees heavy fighting continuing as Russian forces try to push west, "but no significant shifts on the ground have occurred as Ukrainian forces continue to hold the line." In Moscow, Russia's lower house of parliament quickly rubber-stamped an endorsement of the treaties for four regions of Ukraine to join Russia, which the upper house is set to do on Tuesday. But the boundaries of the Russian annexation were not precisely clear. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said two regions, Donetsk and Luhansk, are joining Russia with the same administrative borders that existed before fighting erupted in 2014 between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian forces. But Peskov said the borders of the two other regions Zaporizhzhia and Kherson remain unsettled. "We will continue to discuss that with residents of those regions," Peskov told reporters, without elaborating. The developments in Kherson followed Sunday's announcement by Ukrainian forces that they had retaken full control of Lyman, the eastern logistics hub that is also within territory that Russia claimed last week was its own. "Lyman is fully cleared," Zelenskyy declared in a short video clip on his Telegram channel. Russia did not comment Sunday on the fate of Lyman but said Saturday that its troops were retreating from the area because it feared Ukrainian forces were about to encircle them. Russia captured Lyman in May and had used it as a logistics and transportation hub for its operations in the north of the Donetsk region. Russia's loss of Lyman was its biggest battlefield defeat since Ukrainian forces last month swept through the Kharkiv region in northeastern Ukraine, pushing Russian forces back toward their border. In addition to claiming the annexations rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies, Putin late last month ordered the mobilization of 300,000 reservists to bolster Russia's forces. The order sparked protests in some areas of Russia and long lines at borders as tens of thousands of would-be conscripts have fled to other countries. The governor of Russia's Khabarovsk region said Monday that the military commissar in the region was removed from his post after half of the personnel who were mobilized did not meet draft criteria and were sent home. The governor said in a Telegram video that the commissar's removal would not affect the overall mobilization plan. . Carla Babb contributed to this report. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. The U.N. Secretary-General appealed Monday to developed nations to make good on their promise of $100 billion a year to support climate action in developing countries, ahead of a November climate review conference in Egypt. Funding for adaptation and resilience must represent at least half of all climate finance, Antonio Guterres told reporters. Ministers, climate experts and civil society representatives are meeting this week in the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, to prepare the agenda for the November meeting, known as COP27, which will take place in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh from November 6 to 18. The United Nations says G-20 countries account for 80% of global emissions, but they have been slow to deliver on their $100 billion annual pledge. Taken together, current pledges and policies are shutting the door on our chance to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius, let alone meet the 1.5-degree goal, he said of the benchmarks set in the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. The U.N. warns that failure to reach those goals would spell climate catastrophe. The world cant wait, he added. Emissions are at an all-time high and rising. Guterres said every government, business, investor and institution must step up with concrete climate action plans. I am urging leaders at the highest level to take full part in COP27 and tell the world what climate action they will take nationally and globally, the U.N. chief said. U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry is among the leaders in Kinshasa this week. The United Nations humanitarian office on Somalia says the country is still teetering on the edge of famine. Ian Ridley, head of the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, in Somalia says there are almost eight million people in need of assistance and over one million people who have been internally displaced. Somalia has already experienced four failed rainy seasons dating back to October 2020, Ridley told VOAs Somali service. Although it should be the beginning of the rainy season in Somalia, Ridley said, the forecast indicates the period will not bring the much-needed moisture. Were all hoping and praying that the rains will come, but based on the recent patterns I think the weather forecast and the climatologists are telling us theres a high probability that this next rainy season from October to December will fail, he said in a telephone interview Sunday. That increases the risk of famine, and I would say we are teetering on the edge of famine particularly in Baidoa, and Burhakaba and particularly amongst IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) in Baidoa. He said humanitarian agencies are now focusing all efforts on Baidoa and Burhakaba districts. The humanitarian community is really scaling up in support of the government to support people there to ensure that we can avert famine, he said. Humanitarian groups threatened He said agencies are facing challenges including security and accessibility, which increases worries about the humanitarian situation in areas controlled by the Islamist militant group, al-Shabab. What were concerned about are people in the rural areas that are more difficult to reach, areas that are under the control of non-state armed groups, al-Shabab specifically, he said. Were concerned about those areas, but we must continue to push out of the cities and towns into the rural areas and reach as many people as possible. Last week, officials in Somalias Jubaland state said the al-Shabab militant group killed 12 people drilling a well in the vicinity of Geriley village. The attack was preceded by al-Shabab raids targeting water wells in Galmudug and Hirshabelle states which the group destroyed in apparent retaliation of the local populations mobilization in support of government operations. Meanwhile, a humanitarian worker in Somalia who requested not be identified for safety reasons told VOA Somali that on Saturday suspected al-Shabab militants also fired on a vehicle belonging a local aid organization in the south of the country. That marks a worrying turn in the situation when humanitarians are targeted. We do get worried, Ridley said. We need to understand exactly whats happened before we draw conclusions, but I think it is reasonable to assume that there are forces, non-state armed groups in these areas that dont want humanitarians doing their work. So, its a huge concern. Infrastructure at risk On the recent clashes between the federal government forces supported by local fighters on one hand, and al-Shabab, Ridley said he is concerned that humanitarian workers can get caught up in the crossfire of the fighting. Another concern is that when there is a conflict in an area, telephone masts, clinics, schools, grain stores and water points are destroyed, he said. So, this new conflict marks, if you like, an increase in the number of people that are requiring humanitarian assistance. He said all sides to the conflict need to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law to allow aid workers to get unfettered access to populations, and for civilians to have access to assistance as well. Humanitarians shouldnt be targeted, assistance should not be diverted, and humanitarian space needs to be given so that the national NGOs (non-government organizations), the international NGOs and the United Nations can get on with their work and serve people in need. A senior U.N. official warns flood-ravaged Pakistan is entering a second wave of death and destruction from outbreaks of diseases, including malaria, dengue, diarrhea, scabies and other skin diseases. Julien Harneis, U.N. Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan, said the first wave of this climate-induced disaster has caused wide-scale destruction of roads, bridges, homes, and other infrastructure. They show what happens, what are the consequences when we do not stop global warming. The scale of it is beyond imagination. It is a climate change disaster that you can see from space. The United Nations reports an estimated 1,700 people have lost their lives, a third of them children, and 12,800 have been injured. It says more than 33 million people are affected by the floods, which have displaced 7.9 million. Harneis said the wave of diseases spreading across the affected areas will lead to many more deaths, especially among children, millions of whom are suffering from acute malnutrition. The U.N. Childrens Agency (UNICEF) said at least 3.4 million children need immediate lifesaving support. Harneis said people are getting ill and dying from lack of health, nutrition, water and sanitation services, and lack of access to latrines across the flooded affected areas. People who are defecating in the waters and then drinking from those same waters. Children who are washing in those waters. So, that is the driver of illness and disease and at the same time more than 1,700 health facilities and hospitals have either been destroyed or damaged. Consequently, he noted, the health systems that normally would protect people from such risks are not fully functioning. He said another threat is food insecurity, as the World Food Program and Food and Agriculture Organization estimates the number of hungry people in Pakistan will rise from the current 5.9 million to 7.2 million without urgent international support. The United Nations issued a flash appeal for $160 million at the end of August. Given the immensity of the disaster and the growing needs, Harneis said the U.N. will launch a revised lifesaving appeal for $816 million on Tuesday. A Buffalo staffing company has agreed to commit $550,000 to settle an employment discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Staffing Solutions of WNY Inc. and its owner Kathleen Faulhaber were accused in the lawsuit filed in federal court of making hiring decisions for its clients based on race, sex, age, disability and pregnancy. Faulhaber continues to deny that Staffing Solutions engaged in any discrimination, and she said in a statement that the company only agreed to the settlement to end the expense and distraction of the EEOCs lawsuit. The EEOC claimed that the company complied with employers race and sex preferences, so it placed employees in positions based on that and either refused to hire highly-qualified Black applicants or placed them in the least desirable jobs. Additionally, applicants over the age of 50 were rejected by Staffing Solutions, and unlawfully asked about injuries and medical conditions and then rejected if the company deemed them disabled, according to the complaint filed in 2020. The complaint also claimed that pregnant applicants had been rejected by Staffing Solutions, as well. The law is clear that complying with a clients discriminatory request is illegal, said Jeffrey Burstein, regional attorney for EEOCs New York District Office. Staffing companies cannot prioritize clients discriminatory preferences over following the law. Faulhaber said the matter has distracted the company for more than five years. The two sides had been in negotiations before the lawsuit was filed, according to the EEOC. She called the EEOCs pursuit of the lawsuit an abuse of its powers and waste of government money. She added that Staffing Solutions has hired a workforce consisting of approximately 70% African Americans and Hispanics since it was founded by Faulhaber in 2011. The original lawsuit also accused Faulhaber of using a racist slur when referring to Black applicants. After five years, it simply became too costly and time consuming for Staffing Solutions to continue to fight these meritless allegations, she said, that likely would have lasted for two or more additional years and the cost of which could have forced Staffing Solutions to close its doors. A former office manager for Staffing Solutions came to the EEOC with the accusation of illegal hiring practices and said she was warned that she would be fired if she failed to comply, according to a news release from the EEOC. The office manager felt she had no choice but to resign, the EEOC noted. Too often, hiring discrimination goes undetected, EEOC trial attorney Daniel Seltzer said in a statement. This lawsuit and settlement were possible only because the office manager and others had the courage to come forward and tell their stories. Faulhaber said in 2020 that the former employee filed her claims only after she "abruptly quit her employment with my company, providing no notice and no good reason. She also accused the former office manager of working with the EEOC in the past on a similar case, against a different employer. The settlement calls for $475,000 to be distributed over three years to applicants and employees who were reportedly subjected to Staffing Solutions discriminatory practices. Staffing Solutions will also have to pay $75,000 to retain an independent monitor to regularly review its hiring and placement decisions, provide Faulhaber and her staff with anti-discrimination training and investigate any other complaints of discrimination. Additionally, as part of the agreement, Faulhaber must send a letter to all clients committing the company to following federal laws prohibiting discrimination, add various injunctions against discrimination in the future and adopt a robust anti-discrimination policy and distribute it to all applicants and employees. The EEOC said it will monitor Staffing Solutions compliance with these obligations for the next three years. Staffing Solutions attorney Linda Joseph said she was disappointed with the EEOCs investigation and the lawsuit filed against the company, which only entered into the agreement for very pragmatic financial reasons. The United States on Sunday rejected Iranian reports that Tehran's release of two detained Americans will lead to the unfreezing of Iranian funds abroad. Baquer Namazi, 85, was permitted to leave Iran for medical treatment abroad, and his son Siamak Namazi, 50, was released from detention in Tehran, the United Nations said on Saturday. Now Iran is awaiting the release of about $7 billion in funds frozen abroad, Iranian state media said Sunday. "With the finalization of negotiations between Iran and the United States to release the prisoners of both countries, $7 billion of Iran's blocked resources will be released," the state news agency IRNA said. But the White House and the U.S. State Department dismissed any such link. "Reports from Iranian sources of a transfer of funds related to the release of Baquer Namazi and furlough of Siamak Namazi are categorically false," National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson told Reuters on Sunday. A State Department spokesperson told AFP, "Baquer Namazi was unjustly detained in Iran and then not permitted to leave the country after serving his sentence, despite his repeated requirement for urgent medical attention. "We understand that the lifting of the travel ban and his son's furlough were related to his medical requirement," this official said. Billions of dollars in Iranian funds have been frozen in a number of countries -- notably China, South Korea and Japan -- since the United States reimposed biting sanctions on the Islamic republic in 2018 after unilaterally withdrawing from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Tehran has accused Seoul of holding $7 billion of its funds "hostage," repeatedly calling on South Korean authorities to release it. IRNA on Sunday said, "Washington is pursuing at the same time the release of its citizens detained in Tehran and the release of Iranian funds in South Korea. The development comes as on-off talks have been underway since April 2021 to revive the 2015 deal that gave Iran much-needed sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear program. Iran has repeatedly called for the lifting of sanctions, as well as guarantees that the United States will not again pull out of a revived deal. Baquer Namazi is a former UNICEF official who was detained in February 2016 when he went to Iran to press for the release of his son Siamak Namazi, who had been arrested in October of the previous year. Both were convicted of espionage in October 2016 and sentenced to 10 years in prison. The father was released on medical leave in 2018 and had been serving his sentence under house arrest. Some material for this article came from Reuters. The Biden administration's next security assistance package for Ukraine is expected to include four High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers, munitions, mines and mine-resistant vehicles, two sources briefed on the $625 million package told Reuters on Monday. The package, expected to be announced as soon as Tuesday, is the first aid package since Russia's most recent declared annexation of Ukrainian territory and the second Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) since Ukraine made large battlefield gains in mid-September. Russia's declared annexations followed what it called referendums in occupied areas of Ukraine. Western governments and Kyiv said the votes breached international law and were coercive and nonrepresentative. By using drawdown authority, the four HIMARS launchers and associated rockets, some 200 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, ammunition for Howitzers and mines, can be sent to Ukraine in the coming days. Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) allows the U.S. to transfer articles and services from stocks quickly without congressional approval in response to an emergency. This is the first package of the U.S. government's 2023 fiscal year, which is currently functioning under a stopgap funding measure and allows President Joe Biden to draw down up to $3.7 billion in surplus weapons for transfer to Ukraine through mid-December. Last week, the United States unveiled a $1.1 billion arms package for Ukraine that included 18 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher systems, accompanying munitions, various types of counter drone systems and radar systems. But last week's aid package was funded by the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), meaning the government has to procure the weapons from industry, rather than pulling them from existing U.S. weapons stocks. Made by Lockheed Martin, the HIMARS launchers' accuracy and longer range have allowed Kyiv to reduce Russia's artillery advantage. The U.S. has thus far pledged 16 HIMARS launchers to Ukraine using PDA. The White House declined to comment on the package. The officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that the weapons package can change in value and content until the last minute. This announcement would mark more than $16.8 billion worth of U.S. security assistance since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. Sybeth Musengezi, a Zimbabwean who has taken President Emmerson Mnangagwa to court challenging his leadership of the ruling party following a 2017 defacto military coup, says suspected state security agents that attacked his house were armed and indications are that they want him to drop cases he filed against the president. In an interview, Musengezi said his life is in danger but wont drop the cases he has filed against Mnangagwa and Zanu PF. Obviously these people are trying to force me to abandon the cases I filed in court. I wont do it, he said, noting that people who threw what sounded like petrol bombs at his house were wearing face masks. When I opened the curtain to check what was going on when my home alarm went off, I realized that there were four guys, two of them armed and two of them started breaking the car windows and throwing explosives inside. When I retreated, something was thrown at my window but it didnt land inside the room. So, we ran to the other room and that is when one of the guys told others that no-one is coming out of that house. I didnt see who these guys were since they had covered their faces with only holes in their eyes. Obviously they are from Mnangagwa These people, if you remember, they arrested me for a bogus charge in May and last year I was involed in a suspicious accident. They have been coming to my house using unregistered vehicles. I realized recently that there is an influx of unregistered vehicles coming to my house. Musengezi said he is now living in fear. Obviously they are trying to kill me. Someone is trying to kill me. Its all about these cases I have filed in court. Police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi, said they have not yet received information related to the bombing of Musengezi's house in Harare's Sandton Park by unknown assailants. He filed an initial High Court case in which he is seeking the removal of Mnangagwa from the position of first secretary of the ruling Zanu PF party, claiming that he was not legitimately elected. Musengezi argues no Congress was convened in 2017 when then President Robert Mugabe was toppled in a defacto military coup. He also wants the ruling party to postpone its Congress set for this year, saying all the leaders currently occupying top posts were not legitimately elected. User reports estimate the perceived ground shaking intensity according to the MMI (Modified Mercalli Intensity) scale Contribute: Leave a comment if you find a particular report interesting or want to add to it. Flag as inappropriate. Mark as helpful or interesting. Send your own user report! Translate Constantine (58.2 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s : Laying on the bed and connected with my phone l felt a little shaking and heard something fallen or bumped upstairs. | One user found this interesting. Zeraia (42 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : I feel ground shakes under my feet and vibeation in windows | 2 users found this interesting. Azzeba lotfi commune ain tinn Mila algeria / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 2-5 s : En dormant J'ai ressenti | 2 users found this interesting. Jijel (54 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt J'etait pres du musee Koala et j'ai rien senti. | One user found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / not felt Grarem gouga Algeria (33 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 1-2 s : we were sleeping .everyone woke up | One user found this interesting. Grarem (30.6 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Moderate shaking | One user found this interesting. Sidi merouane / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Secousse comme si on secouait une feuille | One user found this interesting. / not felt / complex motion difficult to describe / 30-60 s : | One user found this interesting. Boumalek, Oued Athmania / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 5-10 s : The shaking woke me up it was somehow strong | One user found this interesting. Sidi sghayer,mila / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single lateral shake / very short : I was sleeping and secondly wake up coz of quake everything is shaking with noses | One user found this interesting. redjas / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s : week shaking as short as 1 second | One user found this interesting. Grarem (30.6 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Moderate shaking Oued athmania (63.2 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) Mila (42.8 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s (22.2 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Constantine, Algeria / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s Ferdjioua / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 20-30 s Oran / not felt Bordj Bou Arreridj / not felt Mila / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Mila / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s Jijel / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Mila / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Mila / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s El milia / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s mila algerie / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Mila / not felt / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / not felt / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Constantine / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) With the death toll from Hurricane Ian rising and hundreds of thousands of people without power in Florida and the Carolinas, U.S. officials vowed Sunday to unleash a massive amount of federal disaster aid as crews scrambled to rescue people stranded by the storm. Days after Ian tore through central Florida, carving a deadly path of destruction into the Carolinas, water levels continued rising in some flooded areas, inundating homes and streets that were passable just a day or two earlier. With branches strewn across the grounds of St. Hillarys Episcopal Church in Ft. Myers, the Rev. Charles Cannon recognized the immense loss during his Sunday sermon but also gave thanks for what remained. That included the churchs stained-glass windows and steeple. People think they have lost everything, but you havent lost everything if you havent lost yourself, he said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Arcadia on Sunday afternoon, about 30 miles inland from where Ian made landfall. The rural area didnt get the storm surge experienced by coastal communities, but standing water from floods remained four days after the storm. This is such a big storm, brought so much water, that youre having basically whats been a 500-year flood event, DeSantis said. At least 68 people have been confirmed dead: 61 in Florida, four in North Carolina and three in Cuba. Fewer than 700,000 homes and businesses in Florida were still without electricity Sunday, down from a peak of 2.6 million. The weakened storm wreaked havoc as it drifted north, with the remnants forming a noreaster that is expected to dump rain on parts of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and southern Pennsylvania, weather officials said. In Virginia, rainfall on the already inundated Chesapeake Bay could lead to the most significant tidal flooding event in the Hampton Roads region in the last 10 to 15 years, said Cody Poche, a National Weather Service meteorologist. A handful of coastal Virginia school districts canceled classes Monday, and local officials urged residents to prepare. Deanne Criswell, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said the federal government is focusing first on victims in Florida, which took the brunt of one of the strongest storms to make landfall in the United States. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden plan to visit Florida on Wednesday. Flooded roadways and washed-out bridges to barrier islands left many people isolated amid limited cellphone service and a lack of basic amenities such as water, electricity and the internet. Officials warned that the situation in many areas isn't expected to improve for several days because the rain that fell has nowhere to go. Criswell told Fox News Sunday that the federal government, including the Coast Guard and Department of Defense, had moved into position the largest amount of search and rescue assets that I think weve ever put in place before. Still, she cautioned that dangers remain. We see so many more injuries and sometimes more fatalities after the storm, Criswell said. Standing water brings with it all kinds of hazards it has debris, it could have power lines. More than 1,600 people have been rescued statewide, according to Florida's emergency management agency. In rural Seminole County, north of Orlando, residents donned waders, boots and bug spray to paddle to their flooded homes Sunday. Ben Bertat found 4 inches (10 centimeters) of water in his house by Lake Harney after kayaking there. I think its going to get worse because all of this water has to get to the lake said Bertat, pointing to the water flooding a nearby road. With ground saturation, all this swamp is full and it just cant take any more water. It doesnt look like its getting any lower. Gabriel Madlang kayaked through several feet of water on his street, delivering sandbags to stave off water creeping toward his doorstep. My home is close to underwater, Madlang said. Right now, Im just going to sandbag as much as I can and hope and pray. The National Guard and the Coast Guard were flying in helicopters to Florida's barrier islands to rescue people. On Sanibel Island, the lone bridge to the crescent-shaped island collapsed, cutting off access by car for its 6,300 residents. An aerial photo posted on social media of Sanibel's Mad Hatter Restaurant shows a mostly vacant patch of sand where the restaurant used to be. The Mad Hatter Restaurant, unfortunately, is out at sea right now, the restaurant's Facebook page reads, adding that the staff are all safe. The best news from this devastating scene is that there is still land for us to rebuild. DeSantis said the state will start building a temporary structure this week to restore vehicle access to Pine Island, the largest of southwestern Floridas barrier islands devastated by the storm. Its not going to be a full bridge, youre going to have to go over it probably at 5 miles an hour or something, but itll at least let people get in and off the island with their vehicles, DeSantis said. Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson on Sunday defended Lee County officials from accusations that they were slow in ordering evacuations Tuesday ahead of the storm, a day later than some other counties in the area. Warnings for hurricane season start in June. So theres a degree of personal responsibility here. I think the county acted appropriately. The thing is, a certain percentage of people will not heed the warnings regardless, Anderson said on the CBS show Face the Nation. In North Carolina, the storm downed trees and power lines. Two of the four deaths in the state were from storm-related vehicle crashes. The others involved a man who drowned when his truck plunged into a swamp and another killed by carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator in a garage. Associated Press reporters Rebecca Santana in Ft. Myers; Brendan Farrington and Anthony Izaguirre in Tallahassee; David Fischer in Miami; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Va.; and Richard Lardner in Washington contributed to this report. This story has been updated to correct the spelling of a Florida residents last name to Madlang, not Madling. For more AP coverage of Hurricane Ian: https://apnews.com/hub/hurricanes SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) An exit poll in Bulgaria suggested Sunday that the center-right GERB party of ex-premier Boyko Borissov, a party blamed for presiding over years of corruption, will be the likely winner of Bulgarias parliamentary election. The poll conducted by Gallup International showed the GERB party earning 24.6% support, apparently edging out the reformist We Continue the Change pro-Western party of former Prime Minister Kiril Petkov, which is expected to capture 18.9%. Still, the predicted percentage wont be enough for Borissovs party to form a one-party government, and the chances for a GERB-led coalition are slim. The exit poll also predicted that eight parties could pass the 4% threshold to enter a fragmented parliament with populist and pro-Russia groups showing increased gains. The European Union nations fourth election in 18 months was marked by a raging war nearby, political instability and economic hardships in the blocs poorest member. A low turnout reflected voter apathy. Petkov conceded defeat late Sunday. We lost the election, albeit by a small margin, and now GERB has the responsibility to form a coalition and govern the country, he said. It could take days before the final official results are announced. If they confirm the exit poll, Borisov will be handed a mandate to form his fourth cabinet. It will be an uphill task for him to produce a stable governing coalition, however, since most political groups have in advance rejected any cooperation with his GERB party, which presided over years of corruption that hampered development. The early election came after a fragile coalition led by Petkov lost a no-confidence vote in June. He claimed afterward that Moscow had used hybrid war tactics to bring down his government after it refused to pay gas bills in rubles and ordered an expulsion of Russian diplomats from Bulgaria. The deputy chief of the European Council on Foreign Relations, Vessela Cherneva, said the predicted result could produce two types of coalitions: an anti-corruption coalition, in which GERB under Borissov would find no place, or a geopolitical coalition of the centrist parties, which would be possible only if Borissov resigns from leading his party. The scenario under which there is no coalition possible would undermine parliamentary democracy in Bulgaria and will further tilt the balance towards the pro-Russian President (Rumen) Radev, Cherneva said. After casting his vote Sunday, Borissov told reporters that Bulgaria needs to clearly position itself on Russias war in Ukraine. With this aggression, with this war with a clear aggressor in the face of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin (I have) nothing against the Russian people with this farce with the referendums, Bulgaria must be very clear, categorical, and precise about its place in the European Union and NATO, he said. He said getting Bulgaria into Europes 19-nation shared currency eurozone should be the next governments most important task. Petkov ran on promises to continue efforts to eradicate corruption, but a European energy crisis sparked by Russias war on Ukraine was the dominant economic theme for voters. Many Bulgarians share pro-Russia sentiments, which provides fertile soil for aggressive Kremlin propaganda in the Balkan country. The pro-Russia party Vazrazhdane, riding on those feelings, captured 10.2% of the vote, up from 4.9% in the previous election, the exit poll predicted. Unlike the stance taken by the EU, which has fully condemned Russias war in Ukraine and slapped sanctions on Russia for it, Vazrazhdane leader Kostadin Kostadinov has urged full neutrality for Bulgaria in the war. Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Yesterday, the Food and Drug Administration approved a new ALS treatment from Amylyx Pharmaceuticals Inc., despite its own assessment that the evidence the drug works is too thin. Today, the company released its list price for the drug, called Relyvrio, and it is predictably very expensive. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Amylyx will charge $158,000 per year for Relyvrio. The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review, an independent nonprofit that analyzes the value of pharmaceuticals, found that a fair price for Relyvrio would be between $9,100 and $30,700 per year. Ive discussed before the downsides of granting this drug full approval namely, the challenge the FDA will have removing it from the market if it turns out not to work, and the lowered bar it might set for other drugs (for ALS and beyond). We can now add another problem: a price that seems wildly out of sync with the evidence of Relyvrios benefits. That price also sets a bar for future ALS drugs, ones that might have similarly modest value. Advertisement The US needs fresh approaches for getting desperate patients early access to drugs without compromising on data or allowing them to be sold at prices that well exceed their known value. But no one seems able or willing to exert real pressure for the system to change. The FDA is not allowed to consider what a drug might cost in its deliberations over its approval. It can only weigh the science. Companies, meanwhile, dont have any reason not to try to maximize their profits. Then there are patient advocacy groups, which have become an increasingly powerful force in drug development and the regulatory process. They raise money to provide companies with critical early funding, help mobilize participation in clinical trials, and make clear to regulators that they want drugs reviewed quickly and with their perspectives in mind. Advertisement That effort has helped bring astounding advances in certain diseases. For example, someone born with cystic fibrosis in 2019 is expected to live 14 years longer than someone born in 1999, thanks in large part to treatments that the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation helped realize. ALS groups gave Amylyx grants and investments that were essential to the companys early existence. That money allowed the biotech firm to collect enough data to convince venture capitalists and later public investors that Relyvrio was worthwhile. People with ALS and their family members rattled cages in Congress to pass legislation last year that would accelerate the search for cures in part by getting a commitment from regulatory authorities to prioritize them. Hundreds came forward to voice their support for Relyvrio at the FDAs advisory committee meeting. But this powerful community of advocates doesnt seem to get a vote on price. While some people in the ALS community voiced their dismay on Twitter, Ive yet to see an advocacy group call for the price to be reduced. Advertisement That position isnt unique to ALS. The pricing issue has in general become something of a third rail for advocacy groups. Their very real concern is that companies wont pursue urgently needed treatments if they dont have the freedom to charge whatever they want for them. The question comes down to whether were going to allow a company to profit from a drug early, says Holly Fernandez Lynch, an assistant professor in the department of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvanias Perelman School of Medicine. And the answer, for now at least, appears to be yes. So whats the fix? One option would be a different type of approval pathway, a conditional approval system that would allow a drug onto the market early, but with hard commitments on completing studies that confirm its benefits. If the studies arent completed by a certain deadline, the drug gets pulled from the market; if the drug fails to prove effective in those studies, it also gets pulled. Advertisement Such a pathway exists in Canada. Beyond creating a strong incentive for the company to actually complete such a trial, it also might help convince patients to participate in that study or risk losing access to a drug. Ideally, that type of approach would be paired with a mechanism to ensure drugs allowed onto the market early are sold at a price that reflects the ambiguity over their value and a way for companies to make more money if new data show they are effective. There are no ideal solutions to this issue, but some progress needs to be made to at least strike a better balance between early access to drugs, good data on their benefits, and fair prices that reflect their value. More From Bloomberg Opinion: The FDA Is Rushing a New and Unproven ALS Drug: Lisa Jarvis Heres Who Really Needs the New Covid Booster: Faye Flam Advertisement New Alzheimers Drug From Biogen and Eisai Is Just the Beginning: Lisa Jarvis This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Lisa Jarvis is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering biotech, health care and the pharmaceutical industry. Previously, she was executive editor of Chemical & Engineering News. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2022 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share The UK government was hoping to salvage some economic credibility thanks to its abrupt and inglorious U-turn on giant unfunded tax cuts for the wealthy. Nevertheless, the destruction of Britains age-old reputation for reserve and pragmatism, its image as a nation worthy of admiration and emulation, seems irreversible. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight To be sure, nationalist histories in India, China, Egypt and many other countries long depicted the British ruling class as predatory and callously incompetent, plundering foreign lands for its wealth at home while inflicting immiseration on those it ruled abroad. Yet there always existed, beneath such resentment, a grudging regard for the inhabitants of a tiny island that had managed to conquer much of the world. Even the most strident anti-colonialists in newly independent nations in Asia and Africa diligently copied the UKs democratic and legal institutions, the typography of its newspapers, the cut of its bespoke suits. Generations of Anglophiles across the world dreamed of an England in which power and wealth combined perfectly with grace and style. In their awestruck vision, the winners of modern history comported themselves with seemingly effortless poise. The sleek daring of Aston Martin, the subtle glamor of Burberry and smooth-tongued prescriptions of the Economist arguably, no other country has offered so many irresistible models to aspiring movers and shakers around the world. Advertisement It is now clear that Britains exuberantly successful branding postponed a necessary reckoning with its unproductive economy. Indeed, confronted with it, some of the countrys most powerful and influential people began entrenching the current regime of deception and self-deception. In the 2000s, as the war on terror began, Britain rushed to offer its long experience of subduing alien peoples to the US. In Afghanistan and then Iraq and Libya, the UKs claims to imperial-era expertise were exposed as calamitously bogus. However, hubris and mendacity were by then deeply embedded in public life. When the economy tanked after the financial crisis of 2008, the Conservative Party managed to blame, with the help of its cheerleaders in the media, a supposedly wasteful public sector for its banking disaster. The Tories rotten economics of austerity was always likely to lead to scoundrel politics. And so, as spending cuts stoked mass disaffection, a section of the Tories began, in a desperate bid for fresh political legitimacy, to promote Brexit: a transparently fraudulent attempt to conjure an imaginary Global Britain by curtailing immigration and breaking with its immediate neighbors and main trading partners in the European Union. The industry of demagoguery that sprung up around Brexit polluted British institutions. People around the world watched aghast as a once respectable Conservative Party and mainstream journalists abandoned their scruples. Boris Johnson, a notorious mountebank, was elevated to 10 Downing Street. Finally sunk by the accumulated weight of his own lies, Johnson was replaced by not Rishi Sunak, a sober technocrat, but the darling of the right-wing media, Liz Truss, a self-confessed thrill seeker who loves to embrace chaos. Advertisement This parade of rogues and fantasists through the inner sanctum of British power was briefly obscured by the flawlessly choreographed funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. For a few hours, the world held its breath at the pageantry of an empire on which the sun never used to set. Two weeks later, the funeral suddenly seems the last spectacle of the white-imperialist chic with which Britain has beguiled, for too long, itself and much of the world. Certainly, most people can see, with appalling clarity since Brexit in 2016, the grim state of a country forced into swift decline by a heedless political class and media establishment. In a handful of years, everything that imperceptibly allowed a shrunken power to appear a self-confident political and moral authority is irretrievably gone. In Britain itself, a long state of mourning rigidly enforced by the BBC as well as the rowdy tabloids revealed that the former masters of the universe know themselves to be feeble and diminished. The stiff-upper-lipped poise went missing as the countrys right-wing commentariat shrilly railed at some forthright accounts of the monarchys obviously undemocratic nature in the New York Times. Denouncing anti-British propaganda in the US press, Andrew Neil, a veteran television presenter and chairman of Spectator magazine, claimed, less than two weeks ago that the condition of the country is actually rather good. Advertisement Such harrumphing is usually among the last noises heard from insecure nationalists in the small countries of Asia and Africa as they go down the tubes. However, Britain hasnt lost everything together with its reputation. Unlike much of the developing world, the country is endowed with immense wealth and talent. The tasks before it are both simple and enormous: quick economic U-turns, certainly, but also the replacement of a ruling elite that has repeatedly exposed itself as both treacherously deluded and inept. More From Bloomberg Opinion: The UK Cannot Afford to Look This Ridiculous: John Authers Confessions of an Accidental Monarchist: Howard Chua-Eoan The Monarchy Is the UKs Most Successful Invention: Martin Ivens (Rewrites first paragraph to reflect news developments.) This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Pankaj Mishra is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. He is author, most recently, of Run and Hide. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2022 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share After months of deliberation and deflection, it is time for Europe to place a cap on natural gas prices. Russia has weaponized energy, its clear aim to destabilize our societies. Fifteen member states have clearly expressed their support for capping prices. Europe should take back control of its gas market. In normal times, governments must let markets work. But these are not normal times. Russia is reneging on contracts and deliberately restricting supply. When one player can move prices, there is no sense in letting markets function. Governments are supposed to structure and police markets. Confronted with clear market manipulation, government intervention is not just justified but required. As prices increase to unprecedented levels, the market has ceased to function. Liquidity has dried up and volatility has spiked, creating huge opportunities for suppliers and speculators to profit from sharp movements in price. Major energy companies are coming under duress, seeking government help. No household, company or government can plan around or manage a market where prices move up or down randomly. Advertisement In the first quarter of 2022, according to official estimates, the European Union paid an extra 62 billion to import gas relative to the previous year. The final tally for 2022 will run in the hundreds of billions, trillions if one includes the knock-on effects in the electricity market and the economy at large. Meanwhile, Russias current account surplus has tripled to over $180 billion through August 2022. These prices have helped attract supply into Europe but at an exorbitant cost we have secured supply but neglected cost. Europe is paying two to three times more for gas than Asian nations. A certain price increase was unavoidable, but Europes success in acquiring gas is partly due to the economic slowdown in China. In a typical year, Chinas liquefied natural gas imports rise by 25 percent; so far this year, they have fallen by 20 percent. This shift, more than high prices, has allowed Europe to import the gas it needs. Europe faces an imbalance that prices alone cannot correct. LNG imports into Europe have been stable since early 2022, despite a continuous rise in prices. Europes ability to replace Russian gas is as much a function of physics at it is of economics: No matter how high prices go, Europe as a whole cannot, in the short term, fully replace the volumes it has lost from Russia. When supply cannot respond to prices, letting prices rise forever is an act of neglect, not prudence. Advertisement Faced with massive costs, businesses and households must conserve energy and switch to alternative fuels. All this is necessary. But we must distinguish between savings and devastation, between sensible reductions in energy consumption and uncontrolled prices that shut down our industries and bankrupt households and small businesses. Sooner or later, markets will balance but without a cap on prices, the cost of that balancing will be measured in lives destroyed and jobs lost. This is why I proposed in July a pan-European scheme to compensate large energy users for reducing their consumption, bringing the market into balance without resorting to extreme prices. The emerging consensus is converging toward a small set of options. The common denominator is the desire to impose a cap on all gas, not just the small volumes still coming from Russia. The cap should be high enough to act as a circuit breaker but allow market activity at reasonable levels to continue. I have a specific cap in mind, but that figure is the subject of confidential member-state negotiations that I want to respect so I wont disclose it here. Still, with high enough prices, suppliers will still send their gas to Europe, and consumers will still have reason to reduce their demand. A cap should be an upward limit on how high prices can go, not an artificially low number that will destabilize markets. Advertisement A cap on prices carries risks, of course. But as we move into winter, the dangers of inertia compound. We cannot afford to sit back and watch as Russia uses our market institutions against us. It is an act of common sense, and of sovereignty, to step in and design rules that respond to the unprecedented challenge we face. Imposing a cap on natural gas prices is an inevitable step in that process. This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Kyriakos Mitsotakis is the prime minister of Greece. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2022 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Its time to get realistic about the worsening energy situation. A power shortage is approaching and few alternatives to bridge the green transition exist right now. Nuclear is re-emerging as a front-runner, as are doubts and skepticism around its safety as memories of past accidents loom large along with haunting images of mushroom clouds. South Korea, though, shows why nuclear isnt just a pipe dream or a fuel to fear. The countrys worries like those of many others arent just people feeling cold this winter, or rising prices. Its the lack of electricity that will ultimately hamper everything from industrial production of goods and food to electric vehicles and the infrastructure to charge them industries account for over half of the nations consumption. South Korean firms that supply high-tech goods to the rest of the world, including cars, batteries and chips, seem to have come to that realization. These energy-intensive sectors wont run on wind, solar and biofuels alone because the actual capacity just isnt enough and for large-scale operations, it isnt consistent. If power starts becoming an issue, so will their profits and global technological heft. To deal with it, South Koreas biggest companies are putting their weight behind nuclear power plants, which contribute to about 27% of electricity there an astute move. Samsung C&T Corp., the trading and construction arm of the Samsung empire, is working with NuScale Power Corp. to construct the first small modular reactor, or SMR, in the US and in eastern Europe. Meanwhile, Doosan Enerbility Co. has also tied up with NuScale to supply equipment. The US firm is the first and only to have had its SMR design receive certification after a rigorous review process by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Advertisement The likes of Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co. and Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. are also working to push nuclear forward, while Bill Gates-backed TerraPower LLC is teaming up with South Korean chaebol SK Inc. to commercialize its advanced reactor technologies. All told, the country has around two dozen atomic power plants. There is serious political will behind these efforts now, with recently elected President Yoon Suk Yeol pushing for nuclear to surpass coal usage. A draft long-term energy plan released recently calls for 201.7 terawatt-hours of electricity from nuclear by the end of the decade, or about 33% of the countrys total, aided by six new reactors. Coal, natural gas and renewables will each make up just over 20% of generation. The economics work, too: Nuclear has a clear cost advantage. As state-owned utility Korea Electric Power Corp. noted in its annual filing earlier this year around extending the life of its nuclear units, the failure to do so would result in a loss of revenues from such units and the increase in our overall fuel costs (as nuclear is the cheapest compared to coal, LNG or oil). For businesses, it costs 61.5 Korean won per kWh compared with 149.9 Korean won per kWh for solar, helping keep electricity prices low. Advertisement Instead of just going green, private and state-backed companies in South Korea are squarely focused on the commercialization of technologies. Nuclear energy consumption hasnt declined since at least 2017, despite the previous administrations plan to phase it out. Building facilities is relatively economical in the country, with the overnight cost the price of constructing a plant without any incurred interest the cheapest among the developed world and even lower than in China and India. South Korean companies recent deals are focused on manufacturing and building nuclear technology, not just exploratory efforts to advance a far-off investment. A big advantage is that they draw from the existing supply chain. Parts are brought to the site and assembled there. Large manufacturers are already making the equipment and know how to run technical operations. Meanwhile, the government recently signed agreements with nuclear energy equipment makers to boost the industry by providing financing, research and development funds. Part of the broader nuclear power problem is that countries facing energy supply issues havent kept up their facilities, or have abandoned the technology altogether. Decommissioning these plants has added costs, too. Now, as the pressure rises to find alternative sources to reduce Europes heavy reliance on Russian gas, theres little that can be done in a short period of time. French state-owned firm Electricite de France SA is exploring keeping two of its UK plants open for longer, as it also struggles to run them efficiently. Germany will make some of its facilities available to get it through the colder months. Advertisement The ability to tap existing nuclear resources is set to help dynamics across the world: The head of the International Energy Agency recently said Japans restart of more nuclear power plants would help ease energy supply issues because global gas availability would rise. This isnt to say that South Korea has got its nuclear bet totally right its had its fair share of hitches in the domestic industry. As with facilities elsewhere in the world, there are questions around how it will manage the waste. Still, it has been working on a near-surface disposal system, which would alleviate concerns about radioactive waste material. NuScales reactors, for instance, use fuel that is consistent with the type used in the light pressurized water-type reactors employed today. The US has been safely storing it for more than six decades. In addition, newer modules are developing designs that could reduce the overall inventory of spent quantities. Seoul has shown there are ways to fix the energy crisis or at least, make it better. Other nations should take note. Advertisement More From Bloomberg Opinion: Rejuvenating the Reactors: Elements by Liam Denning Tiger and Bill Gates Know Nuclear Is the Future: Anjani Trivedi Uranium May Be the Next Critical Minerals Crisis: David Fickling This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Anjani Trivedi is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering industrial companies in Asia. Previously, she was a reporter for the Wall Street Journal. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2022 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article At present time, the Great Northern grain elevator demolition proceeds slowly. Our historical building may disappear. With the existing fallen bricks and possibly more, the residents of Buffalo could have a souvenir. The bricks could be sold to residents for a fee of $1 each. In the future, if a historical building or one selected by the preservationists were being restored, as an example, Buffalo residents might donate their bricks and the new building would be named the Great Northern. Then the memory would remain. Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Officially, leftist former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva won the first round of Brazils tense presidential race on Sunday, with 48% of votes. In fact, current leader Jair Bolsonaro was the one who emerged victorious, beating the predictions of pollsters and boosted by the success of several key congressional and gubernatorial allies, who demonstrated the resilient support for his far-right platform. In absolute terms, he garnered more votes than four years ago, when he eventually triumphed as an unlikely outsider. The unexpected success for Bolsonaro, a second wind, suggests the route to the runoff on October 30 will be bumpy. And even if he is defeated, as still seems likely given high rejection rates among voters, Bolsonarismo looks set to outlast him. Lula, who led Brazil from 2003 through 2010, has been the protagonist of an incredible comeback story over the past months. Last week, polls suggested the possibility of an outright win in the first round for the former president, something that has happened only twice before. That outcome would have been particularly remarkable: Although the one-time metalworker can count on enduring popularity among poorer segments of the population, who associate him with a period of plenty, he is deeply disliked by others who blame him for dragging Brazil into a tangle of grimy graft investigations. (He served time in jail, though his convictions were later annulled.) Advertisement He didnt, in the end, pull off the expected feat. Instead of widening, what Brazilian pollsters call the alligators mouth closed. Lula came within forecasters margins of error and out in front still noteworthy for a country where no incumbent president has yet lost his reelection bid. He won Minas Gerais, the bellwether state that every ultimately successful candidate has taken. Yet the race between the two top contestants a choice, for many, between undesirable choices proved uncomfortably tight. The voto envergonhado or the hidden embarrassed vote, came out for Bolsonaro in populous regions like Sao Paulo, while minor candidates and low turnout nibbled away at Lulas lead. Although voting in Brazil is mandatory, more than one in five eligible Brazilians didnt vote, the highest abstention rate for this stage since 1998. Now Lula goes into the final stretch of campaigning in front, but on the back foot. Bolsonaros ability to push the vote to a runoff in defiance of polls, by contrast, has given him an extra reason to question official forecasts. He has already claimed to have defeated a lie on Sunday. Thus empowered, he will do what he can to gain ground, stir up trouble, or both, especially if the second round result looks tight and security forces prove loyal to him. This morning, its hard not to be anxious for the fate of Latin Americas largest democracy and the regions heftiest economy. Advertisement Most obviously, Bolsonaro a man who has struggled to deliver on promises of economic reform, badly mishandled a pandemic that resulted in nearly 690,000 deaths and sowed deep divisions with his unabashed authoritarian tendencies is still in with a chance. Candidates do not tend to recover after losing the first round of voting. But this race is an unusual one, and hell seek to widen support by doubling down on corruption allegations. Indeed the one certainty going into the next four weeks is that the bitter rhetoric, campaign violence and threats of defiance will worsen. Already late on Sunday, the incumbent presidents supporters were throwing around unsubstantiated accusations of fraud and wrongdoing on social media, while he himself reverted to hints of Lulas supposed allegiance with the far left including Venezuela, a dog whistle to supporters. I understand the desire for change, the president said after the vote, proclaiming his confidence in a win. But in this second round we will show (voters) that the change they are looking for might be for the worse. Then theres the strong showing by Bolsonaros high-profile former ministers and populist allies in congress and at the state level, suggesting that his brand of conservative, Trumpian far-right politics will live on. It has displaced a more moderate right in Brazil, reducing the chances of the deep structural economic changes the country needs, impossible without a wide alliance. (This wasnt altogether a repeat of 2018: Although son Eduardo Bolsonaro won re-election to the Chamber of Deputies, he went from more than 1.8 million votes, a record, to less than half that.) Even if Lula ultimately wins, the strong showing in congress for the presidents party will test his parliamentary mettle. Advertisement Perhaps the most worrying detail on Sunday, though, was the high level of apathy and discontent. Among those who did vote, more people cast blank or void ballots than backed the third-ranked candidate, Simone Tebet. Its easy to overdo the pessimism. Every election in Brazil since the advent of democracy has been a spectacular feat, as this vast nation votes and reports results within hours. For months, democratic institutions like the Supreme Court have proven bulwarks against presidential adventurism, and allies inside and outside Brazil have been reassuringly vocal. In the early hours after the vote, at least, candidates behaved with decorum. But the real race starts now. More From Bloomberg Opinion: Will Bolsonaro Really Leave If He Loses?: Clara Ferreira Marques Latin Americas Pink Tide Cant Revive Past: Eduardo Porter Advertisement Brazils Democracy Needs More Friends in High Places: Editorial This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Clara Ferreira Marques is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and editorial board member covering foreign affairs and climate. Previously, she worked for Reuters in Hong Kong, Singapore, India, the U.K., Italy and Russia. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2022 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Physicist Jess Wade has made it her mission to correct gender and racial biases in the science community, and advocate for women in STEM, who make up only 28 percent of the workforce. Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Prosecutors fired their opening salvo Wednesday in the trial of Roger Stone, tying the combative political consultant directly to President Trump by revealing a series of 2016 phone calls that they said showed Stone later lied to Congress because the truth looked bad for Donald Trump. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Stones lawyer, in turn, argued that his client never meant to lie to lawmakers about his efforts to gain insights about Democrats hacked emails ahead of the presidential election. In an unusual gambit, Stones lawyer Bruce S. Rogow argued that Stones public claims about connections to the anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks were false, and therefore he did not make false statements later to Congress. Stones trial is the last case filed by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III in his investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 campaign, and prosecutors wasted little time drawing a straight line from Stones alleged crimes to Trumps political interests. Advertisement Roger Stone was sentenced to 40 months in prison on Feb. 20, after being convicted of lying to Congress, witness tampering and obstruction of justice. (Video: Adriana Usero/The Washington Post) The evidence in this case will show Roger Stone lied to the House Intelligence Committee because the truth looked bad for the Trump campaign, and the truth looked bad for Donald Trump, prosecutor Aaron Zelinsky, who was a member of Muellers team, told the jury of nine women and three men at the federal courthouse in Washington. Zelinsky said that on the evening of June 14, 2016 the day the Democratic National Committee announced its computer system had been hacked, and two days after WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange claimed to have thousands of emails pending publication Stone and then-candidate Trump exchanged telephone calls lasting about four minutes. Then, on June 30 the day Russian operatives using the online persona Guccifer 2.0 publicly claimed to be a hacker targeting Trumps opponent, Hillary Clinton Stone again called Trump, for two minutes and 37 seconds, according to phone records introduced in court. Advertisement In late July, after WikiLeaks had begun releasing hacked DNC material, Stone called Trumps phone, leading to a 10-minute call. Prosecutors do not know what the two discussed, but about an hour after that call that Roger Stone had with then-candidate Trump, Roger Stone sent another email, Zelinsky said, asking a friend in London to try to contact Assange. The prosecutor urged jurors to focus on Stones conduct, not the broader controversies still swirling around the 2016 campaign. This case is not about who hacked the Democratic National Committee servers. This case is not about whether Roger Stone had any communications with Russians. And this case is not about politics, said Zelinsky. This case is about Roger Stones false testimony to the House Intelligence Committee in an attempt to obstruct the investigation and to tamper with evidence. Stone, 67, a longtime Trump adviser and political consultant, has pleaded not guilty to a seven-count indictment that charges him with false statements and witness tampering. Advertisement Prosecutors contend he lied on several points: when he told the House Intelligence Committee in September 2017 that he did not have texts or emails about his 2016 discussions surrounding WikiLeaks; when he said he had only one associate who tried to act as a go-between with Assange; and when he contended he never spoke to anyone in the Trump campaign about WikiLeaks plans. Zelinsky said Stone told those lies because if Congress had learned of his many emails and texts seeking details about what WikiLeaks had on Clinton, it would have unraveled all of the other lies Roger Stone told. The prosecutor also pointed to an email Stone sent to then-Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort on Aug. 3, 2016, seeking to speak to him. When Manafort asked why, Stone emailed back, To save Trumps a--. Call me please. Manafort, who was among Muellers early targets, is in prison. He was convicted last year of financial crimes unrelated to Russias election interference. Advertisement After WikiLeaks began releasing hacked data in summer 2016, Stone emailed Trump campaign strategist Stephen K. Bannon, writing that Trump can still win, but time is running out, according to a copy of the message shown to jurors. I know how to win, but it aint pretty, Zelinsky read from the email, suggesting that Stone was alluding to WikiLeaks. Stones lead attorney countered that Stone agreed to testify without a subpoena, and in public, thinking the questions would be about any contacts with Russians. The evidence will show thats not the usual way that people go to a committee hearing, certainly if theyre intending to lie, Rogow said. Stone, he said, was exercising his First Amendment rights during the election. Supporting the president or a candidate for president is not a crime of any sort, Rogow said. We are not here to try Russian collusion; there has been no finding of Russian collusion with regard to Mr. Stone, no finding of Russian collusion with regard to the campaign. Advertisement Much of the case centers on Stones interactions with conspiracy theorist Jerome Corsi and former radio show host Randy Credico, both of whom Stone allegedly tried to use as go-betweens to get early word from WikiLeaks about what information the anti-secrecy group had and when it planned to make it public. Rogow said House investigators never found that Stone knew anything other than what was in the public arena in regards to the Russian hack. He did brag about his ability to find out what was going on, he said. But he had no intermediary. The trials first witness, former FBI Special Agent Michelle Taylor, described to the jury multiple instances in August 2016 in which Stone gave interviews claiming to have such an intermediary in touch with WikiLeaks. The lawyer said his client was lied to, and then lied himself to puff up his image. Advertisement Its made-up stuff, he said. Credico and Corsi were playing Mr. Stone and he took the bait, Rogow said. Stone bragged publicly about his contacts and access because it played well politically and in the media, Rogow said. Stone, in turn, was playing others by pretending he had some kind of direct contact with WikiLeaks, the lawyer said. The trial before Judge Amy Berman Jackson is expected to last about two weeks. She has warned that any visible or audible response from those attending the trial will lead to expulsion from the courtroom, and after one break, Stone warned his supporters to tone down the reactions no smiling, no giggling, no rolling your eyes, he said. A trove of Stones communications with Trump insiders, including exchanges with Bannon, Manafort and Manafort deputy Rick Gates, will figure prominently in the case. Advertisement Zelinsky said the cases most important evidence will not be the witnesses, but Stones own words. Amazingly, most of the evidence in this case is in the written record its emails and text messages showing what really happened. If those records had come out, the truth would have been exposed, the prosecutor said. The trial will detail the eagerness of some in Trumps orbit to find damaging information to derail Clintons presidential run, and how Stone then denied such efforts when asked about them. At a critical moment in this nations history, as Congress sought to find out the truth of what happened, Zelinsky said, Stone was doing his best to stop them. GiftOutline Gift Article Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) explained on the Senate floor his decision Feb. 5 to vote to convict President Trump of abuse of power. (Video: The Washington Post) Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Sen. Mitt Romney sealed a place in history Wednesday by voting to convict President Trump of abuse of power, becoming a lone voice of dissent in a Republican Party that otherwise has marched in lockstep with the president throughout the impeachment proceedings. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Romney voted against the second article of impeachment, which accused the president of obstruction of Congress. But on the first article, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee said that he found the evidence against Trump overwhelming and the arguments by the presidents defense ultimately unconvincing. Romneys decision, announced in a deeply personal speech on the Senate floor, where he spoke of his faith and constitutional duty, sparked an immediate and intense outcry among Trumps supporters fury that Romney acknowledged is unlikely to fade. Advertisement Donald Trump Jr., the presidents son, called for Romney to be expelled from the GOP, while many of Trumps congressional allies cast him as a bitter and irrelevant relic of a Republican establishment that has all but crumbled before Trump in recent years. The senator from Utah stood by his decision as Republican criticism mounted Wednesday, maintaining that Trump abused his office by pressuring Ukraine to investigate a political rival. I will tell my children and their children that I did my duty to the best of my ability, believing that my country expected it of me, Romney said in his floor remarks, calling Trumps conduct grievously wrong. Romney added, Were all footnotes at best in the annals of history. But in the most powerful nation on Earth, the nation conceived in liberty and justice, that is distinction enough for any citizen. Advertisement Romneys vote coming after other centrist GOP senators such as Lamar Alexander (Tenn.) decided to acquit Trump even as they scolded him for acting inappropriately was hailed by many Democrats as an example of unflinching political courage from a Republican they have long battled. Following Romneys speech, Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), walked off the Senate floor in tears and remained speechless for several seconds. He literally restored my faith in the institution, Schatz said. Presidential historian Jon Meacham said Romney is an emblem of what so many of us feared was an entirely vanished kind of moderate voice that is guided by reason and not passion. What he did was in the tradition of Dwight Eisenhower, his own father, and George H.W. Bush and Gerald Ford. Romneys father, the late Michigan governor George Romney, was a prominent Republican who was known for being guided by his Mormon faith and a commitment to public service and civil rights. Romney does not speak often of his father, but is inspired by his example far more than he discusses publicly, friends said Wednesday. Advertisement Theres no question that the president asked a foreign power to investigate his political foe, Romney said in an interview with The Washington Post ahead of his floor statement. That he did so for a political purpose, and that he pressured Ukraine to get them to help or to lead in this effort. My own view is that theres not much I can think of that would be a more egregious assault on our Constitution than trying to corrupt an election to maintain power. And thats what the president did. The crux of the case against Trump was the allegation that he withheld military aid and a White House meeting to pressure Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden and his son. Hunter Biden served on the board of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, while his father was vice president. Romney was one of two Republican senators who supported the effort to summon witnesses and documents. He was the only Republican who crossed party lines Wednesday to join Democrats in voting to convict Trump on the first charge, abuse of power, while voting to acquit on the second, obstruction of Congress. Advertisement Inside the Senate GOP cloakroom, Romneys decision was greeted with disappointment but little surprise. Ever since Romney was elected to the Senate in 2018, the 72-year-old senator has parted ways with his party at times and has occasionally criticized Trump an approach that has won him few allies in a chamber where Trumps political capital and favor is a prized commodity. Hes made it very clear from the beginning, even on the witness vote, that he was going to go his own way, Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) said. This is one of those historical votes where everybody has to do what they think is the right thing. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) appeared ready to move on from the trial and did not threaten Romney. I was surprised and disappointed, but we have much work to do for the American people, and I think Senator Romney has been largely supportive of most everything weve tried to accomplish, McConnell said. Advertisement For Romney, breaking with Trump carried not just political consequences in a party he once led as its standard-bearer, but also an issue of family dynamics. Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, the daughter of Romneys older brother, is one of the presidents loyalists and she firmly stood by Trump on Wednesday. This is not the first time I have disagreed with Mitt, and I imagine it will not be the last, McDaniel tweeted. The RNC also sent an email to reporters Wednesday taking aim at Romney, under the subject line, Mitt Romney turns his back on Utah. Other Trump allies were far harsher in their response to Romney. Hes now officially a member of the resistance & should be expelled from the party, Trump Jr. tweeted. Romney knew his vote to remove the president from office would bring consequences. Already, there is a bill in the Utah legislature that would allow voters to remove a sitting senator. Last week, the Conservative Political Action Conference disinvited Romney to its annual event. He expects worse in the days ahead. Advertisement When Romney was in Florida last weekend, a person at the airport called him a traitor, and someone else later told him to get with the team, followed by an epithet. Its going to be there a long, long, long time, he said in the interview. And you know, the presidents going to, you know, use me in rallies. I mean, he likes theater, and I can be part of that. So its going to be tough. Recently appointed Sen. Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.), facing a tough intraparty primary fight from Rep. Douglas A. Collins, has already used Romney as a foil, attacking him last week for supporting the call for witnesses. Romney said his decision to vote to convict the president was the hardest decision he has ever had to make and one that he hoped he would never have to make. When [House Speaker] Nancy Pelosi indicated were now going to pursue impeachment, my heart sank in dread, he said. Advertisement For a time, he thought or at least hoped that Trumps request to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for an investigation into the Bidens during a July 25 phone call represented little more than a throwaway line. As more information came out, Romney came to a different and more worrisome conclusion: that the president had committed a potentially impeachable act. Hes the leader of my party, Romney said of Trump. Hes the president of the United States. I voted with him 80 percent of the time. I agree with his economic policies and a lot of other policies. And yet he did something which was grievously wrong. And to say, well, you know, because Im on his team and I agree with him most of the time, that I should then assent to a political motive, would be a real stain on our constitutional democracy. Romney said he hoped the presidents defense team would present evidence during the trial that would exonerate the president. Advertisement He said he even contacted the White House counsels office, through a fellow senator, asking if it would provide affidavits from officials such as former national security adviser John Bolton or acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, but to no avail. I was hoping beyond hope that the defense would present evidence, exculpatory evidence, that would remove from me the responsibility to vote where my conscience was telling me I had to vote, he said. And thats one of the reasons, by the way, that I wanted to hear from Bolton, which is I hoped he would testify and raise reasonable doubt. Romney dismissed arguments that a president could be impeached only if there were a statutory crime, calling that absurd on its face, and saying he could not think of a more egregious assault on our constitutional system than corrupting an election and getting a foreign power to do it for you. What Trump tried to do, he said, is what autocrats do in tinhorn countries. He also dismissed the arguments that the president was justified in asking Ukraine to investigate the Bidens. He said the former vice president might have been guilty of a conflict of interest but added that a conflict of interest is a matter of judgment, but its not a crime. As for Hunter Biden, he said, He got a lot of money for his fathers name. Thats unsavory. But again, its not a crime. Romney acknowledged that Trump threw up a barrage of efforts to keep the House from receiving documents or testimony from key administration officials with firsthand knowledge but decided against supporting the obstruction charge. I dont think that was an appropriate approach, necessarily, he said, but [Trump] did follow the law, and the House did not take the time to go to the courts as I think they should have. Some of Romneys Republican colleagues have suggested the issue should be left to the voters in this years election, rather than having the Senate render judgment. Romney said his reading of the Constitution and the Federalist Papers led him to conclude that the Senate must make the decision. The Constitution doesnt say that if the president did something terribly wrong, let the people decide in the next election what should happen, he said. It says if the president does something terribly wrong, the Senate shall try him. And so the Constitution is plain. Romney said he made his decision knowing that the president would be acquitted by the Senate. Were mine the deciding vote to remove Trump from office, he said, I hope I would have the strength of character to cast that vote. That would be the right thing to do. He added at another point, No one wants to vote to remove a president of the United States, and I sure dont. Romney said the question of Trumps fate now will be decided in the November election. Its going to go to the people and they will make the final decision, he said, adding that he is highly confident the president will be reelected given his record and the strength of the economy. And if the Democratic nominee is Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) or Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), hell get elected in a landslide, Romney said. Yet in a later season of a political life that began at the side of George Romney, Mitt Romney said he kept coming back to questions of duty and faith. Again, how do I say before God, I agreed to render impartial justice and let the consequences for me personally outweigh my duty to God and my duty to be to the country that I love? he said, explaining how he settled on his vote. Thats simply putting my head down and saying what was done was perfect theres nothing to see here. [It] was not something I could do. Paul Kane and Mike DeBonis contributed to this report. GiftOutline Gift Article Sydney, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Proactive, provider of real-time news and video interviews on growth companies listed in Australia, has covered the following companies: Apollo Minerals Ltd (ASX:AON) is advancing the discovery and development of large-scale, near-surface resources at the Kroussou Zinc-Lead Project in Gabon. Click here Xantippe Resources Ltd (ASX:XTC, OTC:XTCPF) has started a geophysical exploration program at Carachi Lithium Brine Project in the lithium-rich province of Catamarca, Argentina, aimed at identifying the extent of the lithium brine reservoir. Click here West Wits Mining Ltd (ASX:WWI) has strengthened its board skillset with the appointment of experienced mining analyst Warwick Grigor as a non-executive director. Click here Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) has raised $100 million through a strongly supported placement to accelerate growth initiatives at the flagship Finniss Lithium Project, near Darwin in the Northern Territory of Australia. Click here Aruma Resources Ltd (ASX:AAJ) has bolstered its exploration expertise through the appointment of veteran geologist Glenn Grayson as chief operating officer. Click here Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX:BGL) is set to become Australias first ASX-listed net-zero gold miner following the signing of an early works agreement for an industry-leading off-grid hybrid power station. Click here Infinity Lithium Corporation Ltd (ASX:INF) has kicked off its mining licence and environmental permitting process, setting the stage for production at the San Jose Lithium Project in Extremadura, Spain. Click here Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) has completed the first sale of spodumene direct shipping ore (DSO) from its Finniss Project near Darwin in the Northern Territory of Australia. Click here Ionic Rare Earths Ltd (ASX:IXR, OTC:IXRRF) has been accepted as a participant member of the United Nations Global Compact the worlds largest corporate sustainability initiative. Click here MetalsGrove Mining Ltd (ASX:MGA) has kicked off a detailed surface mapping program ahead of drilling at its Bruce Rare Earths Prospect in the Northern Territory. Click here Frontier Energy Ltd (ASX:FHE) has appointed highly experienced hydrogen expert Sam Lee Mohan as managing director to guide the company toward green hydrogen production. Click here Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX:BGL) has reached a native title agreement with the Tjiwarl Aboriginal Corporation (Tijwarl AC), cementing an important partnership as the gold stock advances its namesake project in WAs northeastern Goldfields. Click here Chase Mining Corporation Ltd (ASX:CML)s 30.4%-owned Red Fox Resources Pty Ltd has set the drills turning at the Eveleigh Zinc Project in the Georgetown district of northeast Queensland to test potential BHT lead-zinc-silver style mineralisation. Click here Amplia Therapeutics Ltd (ASX:ATX) has released new data demonstrating the potential of its second focal adhesion kinase (FAK) inhibitor AMP886 to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Click here Future Metals NL (ASX:FME, AIM:FME) has raised 500,000 (A$872,296) from high-net-worth investors in the UK to boost liquidity and market presence on its London Stock Exchange (AIM) listing. Click here Miramar Resources Ltd (ASX:M2R) says an ongoing review of historical data from the companys 100%-owned Bangemall Projects, in the Gascoyne region of WA, has helped it pick out several new targets, including a diamondiferous lamproite at the Blue Bar prospect. Click here Blue Star Helium Ltd (ASX:BNL, OTC:BSNLF) is making strong progress with development well permitting at the Galactica-Pegasus Helium Project in Las Animas County, Colorado. Click here Castillo Copper Ltd (LSE:CCZ, ASX:CCZ) has embarked on a cobalt-focused drilling campaign at the Broken Hill Alliance (BHA) Projects East Zone in Far West New South Wales. Click here TOTUM070 demonstrates excellent results in volunteers with blood LDL cholesterol levels above 130 mg/dl at randomization, its commercially targeted population and the primary subpopulation of the HEART study: Increased and lasting efficacy on blood LDL cholesterol levels, with a reduction of 13.7% after three months and 14.3% after six months, compared to placebo. A very high response rate, reaching 92.5% of responders, from three months in this subpopulation and up to 100% responders when cholesterol levels at baseline exceeded 160 mg/dl. In addition, new data confirming the multi-targeted intestinal and hepatic mode of action of TOTUM070 in preclinical and human studies will be presented at the upcoming American Heart Association Annual Meeting. TOTUM070, a patented plant-based active substance, without phytosterols or red yeast rice, now has a strong record of clinical and scientific evidence supporting its commercial application. Backed by market studies1, the Company confirms its objective of marketing the product by the first half of 2024 at the latest and is intensifying its discussions with major players in the health and nutrition sectors. LA ROCHELLE, France, October 03, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: Valbiotis (FR0013254851 ALVAL, PEA/SME eligible) (Paris:ALVAL), a Research and Development company committed to scientific innovation for preventing and combating metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, presents additional positive results from the Phase II HEART clinical study with TOTUM070 for hypercholesterolemia. In the commercially targeted population with cholesterol levels above 130 mg/dl at randomization, TOTUM070 reduced blood LDL cholesterol levels by 13.7% at 3 months and by 14.3% at 6 months, compared to placebo, with a very high response rate. In parallel, Valbiotis has obtained new data confirming the intestinal and hepatic mode of action of this active substance, in preclinical and human studies, which will be presented at the next American Heart Association Annual Meeting. With this solid clinical and scientific package for TOTUM070, backed up by market studies1, the Company has validated its objective of commercialization by the first half of 2024 at the latest and is intensifying its exchanges with major players in the health and nutrition sectors. Story continues Prof. Jean-Marie BARD, professor of biochemistry and hospital pharmacy practitioner at the University Hospital of Nantes and the Institut de Cancerologie de l'Ouest (ICO), scientific advisor of the HEART study, comments: "The analysis of the additional data from the HEART study reinforces the initial positive results previously announced. With these more precise data, focused on the final target population, TOTUM070 is particularly effective for people with blood LDL cholesterol levels above 130 mg/dl. The magnitude of the reduction in LDL cholesterol, its rapidity and maintenance over time, with a high response rate, are excellent results, especially for a non-drug product. The HEART study now clearly demonstrates the efficacy of TOTUM070 for people with mild to moderate hypercholesterolemia, for whom pharmaceutical treatments are not recommended, in the prevention of cardiovascular risk." Additional positive results from the HEART clinical study in the final target population The Phase II HEART clinical study was a multi-center, international, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving 120 people with untreated mild to moderate LDL hypercholesterolemia. The participants were divided into 2 equivalent arms of 60 people, supplemented for 6 months with a daily dose of 5 g of TOTUM070 or a placebo, in two intakes. The first positive results were announced on June 13, 2022 (press release of June 13, 2022). Of the 120 volunteers included in the study, 84 had blood LDL cholesterol levels greater than 130 mg/dl at randomization, which is the commercially targeted population for TOTUM070. In this population, TOTUM070 showed increased efficacy on blood LDL cholesterol levels, with a 13.7% reduction obtained at 3 months and 14.3% at 6 months compared to placebo. Blood triglyceride levels were reduced by 14.3% at 3 months and 14.4% at 6 months, compared to placebo. Also in this population, the data show a very high response rate, with 92.5% of volunteers responding at 3 months. This rate even reached 100% when the cholesterol level at inclusion exceeded 160 mg/dl. Furthermore, in the overall study population, stratified analysis showed that the magnitude of the reduction in blood LDL cholesterol was significantly correlated with the level of LDL cholesterol at baseline: TOTUM070 was more effective the higher the initial cholesterol level. New data on the multi-targeted intestinal and hepatic mode of action of TOTUM070 selected by the American Heart Association Annual Meeting Following the first mode of action data already published, extensive preclinical work explored the specific action of TOTUM070 at the intestinal level. This work first demonstrated effects on the abundance and diversity of the intestinal microbiota, as well as on bacteria known to be involved in the regulation of metabolism, which could help explain the effects of TOTUM070. Other studies have also confirmed and documented the effect of TOTUM070 on intestinal cholesterol absorption, one of the main levers of action on hypercholesterolemia. They will be presented at the next annual meeting of the American Heart Association in November 2022. At the hepatic level, the clinical mode of action study, which had previously reported positive results (press release of March 29, 2022), has delivered additional results at the molecular level2. RNA sequencing analyses demonstrate that TOTUM070 metabolites modulate a large number of genes involved in the regulation of cholesterol, fatty acid and lipoprotein metabolism in human liver cells. These molecular data confirm the effect of TOTUM070 on human liver cells and provide additional information on the hepatic mechanisms of action of TOTUM070. These additional results will also be presented at the AHA meeting in November 2022. Murielle CAZAUBIEL, Director of Medical, Regulatory and Industrial Affairs and member of the Valbiotis Board of Directors, comments: "The additional clinical efficacy results from the HEART study are excellent for TOTUM070. With all the preclinical and clinical studies conducted, we now have a very robust level of evidence to support the value and positioning of TOTUM070 against excess LDL cholesterol in the frame of cardiovascular risk prevention." Sebastien BESSY, Director of Marketing and Commercial Operations and member of the Board of Directors, adds: "The commercial potential of TOTUM070 is clearly supported by the market studies1 we have conducted with consumers and doctors in various international markets. This backs up our ambitious objectives of commercialization by the first half of 2024 at the latest, and of intensifying exchanges with major players in the health and nutrition sectors." About Valbiotis Valbiotis is a Research & Development company committed to scientific innovation for preventing and combating metabolic and cardiovascular diseases in response to unmet medical needs. Valbiotis has adopted an innovative approach, aiming to revolutionize healthcare by developing a new class of health nutrition products designed to reduce the risk of major metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, relying on a multi-target strategy enabled by the use of plant-based terrestrial and marine resources. Its products are intended to be licensed to players in the health sector. Created at the beginning of 2014 in La Rochelle, the Company has forged numerous partnerships with leading academic centers. The Company has established three sites in France Perigny, La Rochelle (17) and Riom (63) and a subsidiary in Quebec City (Canada). Valbiotis is a member of the "BPI Excellence" network and has been recognized as an "Innovative Company" by the BPI label. Valbiotis has also been awarded "Young Innovative Company" status and has received major financial support from the European Union for its research programs via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Valbiotis is a PEA-SME eligible company. For more information about Valbiotis, please visit: www.valbiotis.com Name: Valbiotis ISIN Code: FR0013254851 Ticker symbol: ALVAL EnterNext PEA-PME 150 This press release contains forward-looking statements about Valbiotis objectives. Valbiotis considers that these projections are based on rational hypotheses and the information available to Valbiotis at the present time. However, in no way does this constitute a guarantee of future performance, and these projections may be affected by changes in economic conditions and financial markets, as well as certain risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Valbiotis Universal Registration Document filed to the French Financial Markets Regulator (AMF) on May 19, 2022. This document is available on the Companys website (www.valbiotis.com). This press release and the information it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe, or a solicitation to purchase or subscribe to Valbiotis shares or financial securities in any country. 1Market studies conducted by the IFOP and A+A institutes for Valbiotis in 2022, with doctors and patients / consumers, in France, Germany and the USA. 2Protocol combining metabolomics and mode of action, designed and implemented by Clinic'n'Cell. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221002005023/en/ Contacts Corporate communication / Valbiotis Carole ROCHER Communication and Public Affairs Director +33 6 77 82 56 88 Marc DELAUNAY Communication Manager +33 5 46 28 62 58 media@valbiotis.com Financial communication / Actifin Stephane RUIZ Associate Director +33 1 56 88 11 14 sruiz@actifin.fr Media Relations / PrPa Damien MAILLARD Operational Director +33 6 80 28 47 70 damien.maillard@prpa.fr After 15 years of political recession, Canberra seems to be experiencing something of a democratic spring. Anthony Albanese looks like he could end the here-today-gone-tomorrow churn of prime ministers. After the post-truthism of his predecessor, Honest Albo is rebuilding trust in government. His ministry is a team of talents, seemingly intent on solving problems rather than exploiting issues and picking cultural fights. Anthony Albanese and the Labor Partys approach to government is dramatically different from their predecessors. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The 47th parliament, the most racially diverse in the countrys history, finally looks more like the modern, polyglot nation it represents. Maiden speeches have shared stirring backstories of immigrant success. Independent MP Dai Le, who fled Vietnam with her family by boat, even wore a traditional ao dai fashioned on the Australian flag. The presence of so many crossbenchers has been transformative a breath of fresh air delivered with gale force. The influx of women, in a chamber so used to macho posturing, has been especially welcome. A parliament known for harsh invective and better at producing opposition leaders than prime ministers is less rowdy and more constructive. Vital repair work is under way to reinforce guardrails of democracy vandalised during Scott Morrisons three years in office. Further buttressing will come from the federal anti-corruption commission, new ethical infrastructure which should raise standards in public life. A West Australian man was fatally shot by police in a Queensland holiday town early Saturday morning after allegedly lunging at officers with a knife. Queensland Police claimed Luke Gilbert, 24, approached police on a street in Airlie Beach around 12.20am and threatened them before advancing toward them with the sharp weapon. Mandurah man Luke Gilbert was shot dead by police in Airlie Beach on Saturday morning. Credit:Facebook The Mandurah local, who had moved to Queensland a few months earlier, was then fatally shot. His brother, Zac Gilbert, is demanding answers as to why police chose to use a gun. Two men have died in a helicopter crash in Western Australias Wheatbelt region after taking part in a group flying event between Koorda and Jandakot Airport. WA Police said the flight took-off from Koorda, 240 kilometres north-east of Perth, on Sunday afternoon, with the wreckage found near Cowcowing Lakes, just south-west of the regional town. The flight was taking part in the Koorda Fly-in, arranged by members of the Royal Aero Club of WA, where participants flew to Koorda on Saturday, and returned to Perth on Sunday. Visit the Motor and Military Museum, take a tour of the grain silos, and visit the drive-in theatre, the briefing for the event read. Australia is preparing to overturn its policy of more than three years and launch a mission to repatriate dozens of women and children, the family members of former Islamic State fighters who have been languishing for years in squalid detention camps in Syria. News of the impending operation, which was confirmed by security sources in Australia, has given hope to dozens of families that they will be reunited with their loved ones, some of whom who have been stuck in limbo for more than three years. Australian mother Zahra Ahmed (left) holding her son Ibrahim (2nd from left) in al-Hawl camp in north-east Syria, October 2019. Credit:Kate Geraghty About 20 Australian women and more than 40 of their children have been living at the al-Hawl and al-Roj camps in Syrias north-east since the fall of the Islamic State caliphate in early 2019. Kamalle Dabboussy, whose daughter Mariam and three children are in the al-Roj camp, said news of a rescue effort was consistent with recent discussions between advocates and authorities. The driver lost control of the stolen vehicle and totaled it. Courtesy of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. A group of teenagers were suspected of stealing an unlocked Maserati and driving off, police said. As they sped off at about 80 mph, the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed, totaling the car. One teen is dead, another is hospitalized and is "not expected to make it," and a third is in critical condition, police said. A 15-year-old is dead after a group of teenagers stole an unlocked Maserati and took it for a high-speed drive that ended in a violent crash, Florida police said. At around 3:30 am on Sunday, 15-year-old Keondrick Lang, 15-year-old Mario Bonilla, and 16-year-old Malachi Daniels were trolling for unlocked cars in a Saint Petersburg neighborhood when they came upon the unlocked Maserati that had the keys inside, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said at a press conference. Gualtieri said Lang had been "stealthfully" pulling on car door handles with his shirt so as to not leave fingerprints. When the teens discovered the luxury car had its keys inside, they jumped in with Lang driving, Bonilla in the front passenger seat, and Daniels in the back, Gualtieri said at the press conference. Officers spotted the teens from a helicopter that had been investigating a different case and alerted deputies on the ground to a possible vehicle theft, according to the sheriff's office. Though the sheriff's office said it has a policy against engaging in chases, the teens had spotted the officers and took off in the vehicle with no lights on as if they were being chased, according to Fox 13 News. "Patrol deputies on the ground attempted to stop the vehicle, however the vehicle accelerated and reached a speed of over 80 miles per hour. Deputies did not pursue the vehicle," the sheriff's office said in a press release. "These are young kids," Gualtieri said at the press conference. "They're inexperienced drivers, no drivers licenses, driving at 3:30 in the morning, 80 mph, and the car starts fishtailing all over the road. He had no control over the car at that point." Story continues Lang "lost control of the vehicle" and "drove over a curb, hit the business sign, and the vehicle flipped," according to the press release. Responding deputies rendered aid, but Bonilla was pronounced dead on the scene, police said. Daniels was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries and is "not expected to make it," and Lang was hospitalized with critical but "not life-threatening" injuries, Gualtieri said. The sheriff added that the teens did not have extensive criminal histories, but they had previously been stopped together by Kenneth City police while they were walking through a neighborhood "at 4 am, all wearing black hoodies, faces covered, walking through a residential area," Gualtieri said. At the time of that incident in September, police took down the teens' information and called their parents. "These kids were on that bad path, and what we see with these kids time and again is they're out in the middle of the night, they're looking for cars to break into, they're looking for cars to steal, and these are crimes of opportunity," Gualtieri said. "They're looking for unlocked cars and cars that have the keys in them, and that's what they found here." Read the original article on Insider (Bloomberg) -- Brazil is heading to a runoff election between President Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Oct. 30 after a stronger-than-expected performance by the incumbent prevented his leftist challenger from getting the 50% needed to win the vote outright. Most Read from Bloomberg Here are some comments by political experts and economists about the results on Sundays vote: Roberto Secemski, economist at Barclays PLC: Tighter-than-expected gap between the two candidates could result in some moderation in political rhetoric as they compete to win over undecided voters, which could imply populist promises New proposals that would mean additional fiscal spending without details on funding sources would be negatively received by investors Lula could feel pressured to outline names for his potential new administration High rejection rates could still represent a ceiling for Bolsonaro, even if comes up with new campaign promises Cassiana Fernandez, Brazil chief economist for JPMorgan Chase & Corp.: Gap between two main contenders was substantially smaller than the 10%-points that polls on average suggested, perhaps suggesting that the effect of shy voters for Bolsonaro is underestimated by polling agencies It is too close to call the result but odds still look slightly in favor of Lula at this point In Congress, the performance of the Bolsonaros party PL and the right-wing Uniao Brasil suggest the strength of more conservative views, leading to a change in the equilibrium of the upper house This may lead to more moderation on the economic agenda from an eventual Lula government, it may also lead to more stalemates and gridlocks if the government fails to properly negotiate its priorities with leaders Story continues Thomas Traumann, a Rio de Janeiro-based political consultant and columnist: This is a surprise. People underestimated Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro has momentum not only because he won important states like Sao Paulo and Rio, but also because of excellent results in congress Lula is closer to victory. But the fact is Bolsonaro had many million votes more than polls expected and an excellent performance in the senate Though Lula is still the favorite, he will probably need to make some compromises in the next weeks to ensure his victory If Bolsonaro backed-candidates in senate can organize themselves, theres no doubt they can complicate Lulas eventual mandate Deysi Cioccari, a political science professor at the Pontifical Catholic University of Sao Paulo There is a strong Bolsonarist vote hidden, especially in the Sao Paulo countryside, but across the country in the smallest cities off the radar of polls This explains the pro-Bolsonaro result despite Lula winning in the first round James Green, Brown University professor of Latin American history There are several issues: First, Lula has never won in the first round, so one more time he is going to have to dispute the second round. Secondly, he got the 48% that polls analyzed. At the end it was completely within the margin of error Bolsonaro was stronger than we imagined and it wasnt just a survey error; its a lack of understanding that there is within the society an ashamed vote but for the right instead of the left. They dont talk to pollsters, they dont reveal what they feel but they have a great identification with Bolsonaro Brazil lives a myth of cordiality, joy, sympathy and it isnt. Its a country that has a lot of conservatives, always has, and they are growing and they dont like those social, cultural changes that had been happening in the country. So they are supporting Bolsonaro because he represents a return to the past Brazils polarization is just like the US. The countries are increasingly alike in their political composition. Alberto Ramos, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. economist Pro-Bolsonaro and center-right candidates pulled a few high-profile surprises and overall performed significantly better than expected in gubernatorial and senate races We are bound for a competitive and likely also very polarized presidential election runoff. We expect the coming polls to show a Lula-Bolsonaro runoff spread below the 8 to 10pt seen prior to the first-round Against this backdrop, campaign focus/efficiency, connection with voters, appeal to the 20.9% of voters that abstained in the first round, and the ground game on election day will matter, and will likely determine the outcome of the presidential election Carlos Melo, a political scientist at the Insper University in Sao Paulo All that is certain is that the far-right is extremely strong. And Jair Bolsonaro goes into the second round in a position of strength Oliver Stuenkel, International Relations Professor at FGV University, in Twitter comments: Lula is still the favorite to win the runoff. But just like Trump, Bolsonaro has shown that his support makes a big differences for candidates for Senate, Governor & Congress That will make it harder for center-right politicians to challenge Bolsonaros hegemony over Brazils right Read More: Brazil Presidential Race Goes to Runoff as Lula Falls Short (2) (Updates with comments from Barclays in first bullet point.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. Burkina Faso coup leader Capt Ibrahim Traore Said to have been a shy but intelligent boy in school, Burkina Faso's Capt Ibrahim Traore has become the latest military officer to seize power in a coup in one of France's former colonies in West Africa. He overthrew his former comrade, Lt Col Paul-Henri Damiba on 30 September, after accusing him of failing to fulfil his promise of quelling the Islamist insurgency that has gripped Burkina Faso since 2015. Born in 1988, this makes the 34-year-old captain the youngest head of state in Africa, joining the ranks of two other coup leaders - Guinea's charismatic Col Mamady Doumbouya, born in 1981, and Mali's bearded Col Assimi Goita, born in 1983. "I know I'm younger than most of you here. We didn't want what happened but we didn't have a choice," Capt Traore told government officials. During Lt-Col Damiba's short time in power, attacks by militant Islamists - some of them linked to the Islamic State group and al-Qaeda - increased in Burkina Faso as they seized territory in rural areas and encircled cities, leaving the state in control of only about 60% of the country, according to some estimates. With a lack of strong democratic institutions in a country where the military has long been dominant, Capt Traore seized power with a pledge to improve security in a nation living in fear of the militants. His coup - the second in Burkina Faso in less than nine months - is the latest sign of the epidemic of coups that UN chief Antonio Guterres raised concern about in 2021. "My appeal, obviously, is for - especially the big powers - to come together for the unity of the Security Council in order to make sure that there is effective deterrence in relation to this epidemic of coup d'etats," Mr Guterres said at the time. But with global powers focused either on domestic crises - or the war in Ukraine - they have paid little attention to the instability that has wracked countries such as Burkina Faso. If anything, Burkina Faso and some other countries have found themselves increasingly embroiled in the cold war rivalry that has been reignited by the Ukraine conflict, as Russia seeks to expands its influence in the region at the expense of France, which has retained close economic, military and cultural ties to many of its former colonies in Africa. Story continues Capt Ibrahim Traore has promised to improve security in Burkina Faso "I know that France cannot interfere directly in our affairs," Capt Traore said, adding: "The Americans are our partners now, [but] we can also have Russia as a partner." His comments suggest that he could follow the example of his counterpart in Mali, who has allegedly brought in the controversial Russian security group, Wagner, to replace the French in the fight against jihadists, albeit with little success, as the insurgency has worsened there too since the military staged a coup in August 2020. Capt Traore cut his teeth fighting the jihadists in Mali. He served in a UN force there, and reportedly "showed bravery" in the face of a "complex attack" by militants in the northern Timbuktu region - famous for its centuries-old buildings - in 2018. The following year, he participated in a military operation codenamed Otapuanu in Burkina Faso's restive east for seven months. He also served in a detachment of Markoye in the northern Sahel region and took part in several operations there. "Traore is close to his men, wilful and courageous. He could not do six months without going to a detachment," an unnamed source was quoted as saying on Burkina Faso's Radio Omega. But Capt Traore is no decorated war general, only a captain who studied at a local military academy, joined the army in 2009 and received artillery training in Morocco. He chose a military career after completing his schooling in Burkina Faso's second city, Bobo-Dioulasso, with reports describing him as "shy and rather reserved" but also "very intelligent". Now, Capt Traore has found himself at the centre of international glare, with some going as far as drawing parallels between him and Burkina Faso's famous revolutionary, Thomas Sankara - not surprising in a nation looking for political saviours after decades of misrule. "Ibrahim Traore has taken over the leadership of the country, like a certain Thomas Sankara, [and] like him after a military coup, captain like him, 34 years old like him. Is this a twist of fate for a Burkina in search of new landmarks?" the privately-owned Wakat Sera website asked. You may also be interested in: If you know of local business openings or closings, please notify us here. PREVIOUS OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS - The Palmer Township Board of Supervisors denied a conditional use for two warehouses proposed by developer Abe Atiyeh. - B. Braun bought Starboard Medical's Clif-FIX line of devices that secure catheters for an undisclosed price. - The Lowhill Township Planning Commission denied a plan for a warehouse at 7503 Kernsville Road, saying it would change the character of the rural township. - Just A Dream Frozen Yogurt in Forks Township closed its doors after 10 years. - Khanisa's Pudding Bar held a grand opening at its new Downtown Allentown Market location after having moved from Easton. - Mussel Polymers Inc. says its glue for bonding carbon and synthetic fibers is a big step toward creating lighter and stronger fiber-reinforced materials. - Poke Bar 25 & Bubble Tea in the Shops at Bethlehem (the Giant shopping center on Easton Avenue in Bethlehem Township, on the border with the City of Bethlehem) will open in late November or early December. - The former Rosanna's Restaurant in Bethlehem, which closed in February, will reopen as a deli and bar called Rosa's Corner. - Victaulic has expanded in Tennessee with the acquisition of Tennessee Metal Fabricating, price not disclosed. - The old Forks Diner will be serving auto-repair customers by early spring of 2023 with a six-bay garage known as Wrenchtec. - Lehigh County-based Shift4 Payments stepped in to help the owners of Better on the Bone Butcher and Deli in Pottstown finally open their doors. - Mid Penn Bank opened a new, bigger location in Blue Bell. - Balloon Junction held a grand opening in Pottsville for its store offering custom balloon creations. - Rentschler's Ice Cream has reopened just a few doors down from its former location in Ringtown after it was destroyed by a fire in February. - Mill Street Aesthetics, a day spa and skincare boutique, held a grand opening in Belvidere, New Jersey. - Provident Financial Services agreed to acquire Lakeland Bancorp in a stock deal valued at $1.3 billion, creating a bank that will hold 4% of the deposits in New Jersey. READING, Pa. A former Berks County woman now living in Florida has been staying at an animal shelter since Hurricane Ian began impacting the state's Gulf Coast on Tuesday. Liz McCauley has been caring for nearly 100 animals at a shelter in Cape Coral, Florida. "I can't think of anywhere else I would rather be than at the shelter," said McCauley, the executive director of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. "This is my responsibility." McCauley used to call Reading her home. She left Berks County five years ago and opened the shelter in 2020. She said the fact that the building is newer was extremely beneficial during the storm. "It's all hurricane windows, it's all hurricane shutters," she said. "The board has built it very sturdy, and we are high elevation." Damage to the shelter was minimal. "We lost our play yard, which will get fixed next week, and a lot of debris," she said, "but the animals were safe, and that's obviously the most important thing." McCauley, the former executive director of the Animal Rescue League of Berks County in Cumru Township, said the concern now is caring for and finding homes for surrendered pets. On Friday morning, she said an elderly man who lost everything because of Ian was forced to leave behind his late wife's dog and trust the shelter to find new and loving owners. "He was crying. We were crying, but he kept saying, 'I know it's the best thing for her. I know it's the best thing for her,'" McCauley said while speaking with 69 News by phone. McCauley is hoping her Berks County family can send support and keep the shelter financially afloat in this time of need. "We have no water, we have no electric," McCauley continued. "Right now, getting some money together to get us out of this in the next couple of weeks is probably the most important thing." Donations can be made on the Cape Coral Animal Shelter & Veterinary Clinic website. (Bloomberg) -- Eni SpA is working with Gazprom PJSC and Austria to restore Russian natural gas flows to Italy after supplies were halted on Saturday in an apparent scuffle over regulation. Options include a cash guarantee from the Italian utility. The Italian energy giant intends to evaluate options with Gazprom and the Austrian operator to unlock gas supplies to Italy, an Eni spokesman said in a statement on Monday. But its premature to provide details before the practicality of the options is shared among the parties involved, he said. Eni is ready to provide cash guarantees of around 20 million euros ($19.54 million) to restart Russian gas flows to Italy by this week and is assessing the feasibility of this solution, chief executive officer Claudio Descalzi is reported as saying by Italian news agency Radiocor. The halt has been caused by Gazprom not paying a guarantee to the Austrian operator for the gas passing through Austria to Italy, Radiocor reported Descalzi saying. While Italy has been weaning itself off Russian gas, Saturdays development highlights the vulnerability of European nations to President Vladimir Putins moves to choke off energy to the continent. The standoff intensified last week after suspected sabotage on the Nord Stream gas links under the Baltic Sea. This is a contract issue between Gazprom and Eni that should be cleared up in the next couple days, said Carola Millgram, head of gas regulation at Austrias E-Control. The issue relates to new contract that Gazprom has yet to adopt, the countrys regulator said. Disputes over contractual clauses and regulation have accompanied the meltdown in economic ties between Russia and countries to its west, as Putin continues his war against Ukraine. Earlier this year, Russias demand for gas deliveries to be paid in ruble contributed to soaring prices. Italy once relied on Russia for about 40% of its gas imports, but has been aggressively cutting that dependence since the invasion in February. Italy has now sourced sufficient alternative supplies of gas from North Africa to make up for any shortfalls this winter if Russia were to cut off supplies, people familiar with the matter have told Bloomberg. Russian gas accounted for about 10% of Italys imports before the halt. Story continues The cutoff of Italian gas comes days after underwater blasts crippled the key Nord Stream gas pipelines connecting Russia with Europe. (Updates Eni CEO comments in third and fourth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. LEESPORT, Pa. A person was pistol-whipped during a home invasion in Berks County on Friday, according to the police. The Northern Berks Regional Police Department said its officers responded around 3 p.m. to the report of an armed robbery at a house on Hafer Road in Leesport. Two men wearing black hooded sweatshirts forced their way inside the residence, the police said. During the robbery, one of the victims was pistol-whipped, police said. That person was treated at an area hospital and released. Police said a handgun was fired during the robbery, but none of the victims was hit by the gunfire. The men ran away from the residence before the police arrived. Officers from Muhlenberg and Bern townships helped with the investigation and in the search for the men. Anyone with information is urged to call the Northern Berks Regional Police Department at 610-926-2999. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Alert Berks County by calling 877-373-9913 or by texting 847411, starting the message with keyword alertberks. A cash reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest. U. SAUCON TWP., Pa. - DeSales University will host a free seminar on mental health for active military members, veterans, and first responders. Author and speaker Travis Howze will lead the seminar titled "Post Traumatic Purpose." His talk will focus on the signs and symptoms of PTSD as well as ways to cope with the trauma. The event is open to the public, but registration is required. It's set for Monday evening, from 6-9 p.m., in the DeSales University Center. EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. - Authorities in the Poconos are asking for the public's help in finding a woman wanted on heroin charges. Kathleen Ellis, 24, is facing charges related to the sale and distribution of heroin, said the Monroe County District Attorney's Office. Her last known address in Pennsylvania is on Melrose Terrace in East Stroudsburg, but investigators believe she may be living in Rossville, Georgia, the DA said. Anyone with information on Ellis whereabouts is asked to call Detective Kim Lippincott at 570-460-9600 or email klippincott@monroecountypa.gov. WEST ROCKHILL TWP., Pa. - The Bucks County Fire Marshal is still trying to figure out what caused an apartment building to catch fire Monday morning. The fire chased 13 people from their homes, and a business on the first floor was destroyed. Cleanup was already underway Monday when we got to the building on the 700 block of Ridge Road. People who lived there said the fire alarms went off around 7 a.m. "The second floor, we went down and then we see, saw some black smoke, and then we noticed it was coming from one particular room," said Hugh Casey, who lived in the building. Casey said the man who lived there wasn't home, so they forced their way in. "One of the men kicked in the doorway because the door was locked, and when he kicked in the doorway, there was a giant plume of black smoke," said Casey. Another resident, Mark Clemmer, said they sprayed a fire extinguisher, but it was too late. "It's an old building so it went up like tinder. You know it just, like it did spread fast," said Clemmer. We talked with the Asst. Chief of the Sellersville Fire Department, who told us they've already ruled the building a total loss. Now, Clemmer and Casey are tallying up the things they lost. "My wallet and my telephone. Personal belongings, lots of clothes. Lots of books," said Casey. "The most expensive thing I lost in there would be my camera. Two cameras and a Dell laptop," said Clemmer. And for both men it's going to be difficult to replace those belongings. We asked them if they had renter's insurance. "I did not, no," said Casey. "Us renters, I don't think any one of us had renters insurance. I was just about to get it and I didn't," said Clemmer. But Clemmer said it could have been worse. "At least everybody was out, everybody was accounted for," said Clemmer. We saw the Red Cross providing temporary support to residents, putting people up in hotels if they need it. The Sellersville Fire Department said the building is going to have to be demolished. ROYERSFORD, Pa. -- Fire companies across Pennsylvania continue searching for volunteers. The Royersford Fire Department in Montgomery County is among them. The department is using a new program that allows community members to experience what it is like to be a firefighter for a day as a way of sparking interest. After a quick walk-through of the burn building, several people suited up as part of the Royersford Fire Department's Firefighter for a Day program. "With the dwindling crisis of volunteers in the state, we were trying to come up with new ways to generate interest from the public, mainly our community, and give them an experience on what it's like to be a firefighter," said Deputy Chief Dave Panetta, who helped put the program together. After putting on 50-60 pounds of equipment, the participants were introduced to the air tank before coming face-to-face with thick smoke. One participant said it was hard just seeing the ground in front of them. Eventually came the flames. Soon it was time for the participants to go in. After getting the right spray setting, the participants quickly extinguished the fire. Then the team received orders to head upstairs, where they searched in the thick black smoke, but the coast was clear and their job was done. "A lot of smiles from the participants and also from our members, giving them the opportunity to show inexperienced personnel what they know and things that work for them," said Deputy Chief Panetta. It is something participant Donna Musetti said every department should do. "This was just one day for us, so I mean what they do every day, put their lives on the line, and I have the utmost respect, more respect than I did before," said Musetti. Mike Capcino tells 69 News it is a potential stepping stone. "It's definitely something I want to come back and do again . If I'm not a volunteer firefighter by next year, I'll definitely be here again going back through the training as well," said Capcino. "If it's something no matter where you live, if you're thinking about joining or you're not sure stop down and talk to the people, see if you can help," said Deputy Chief Panetta. DOYLESTOWN, Pa. - Police in Bucks County are asking for the public's help in finding a missing man. Richard Washington was last seen around 4:30 p.m. Sunday in a neighborhood in Doylestown, said Central Bucks Regional police. The 49-year-old had walked to the mailbox area on Sandy Ridge Drive, police said. Authorities are concerned for his well-being. Washington is 5 feet tall, and was last seen wearing a green/grey military-style jacket, green pants, blue and white sneakers and glasses, police said. Anyone with information should call 911 or police at 215-345-4143. PONCE, Puerto Rico (AP) President Joe Biden promised to rebuild it all while visiting Puerto Rico on Monday, as tens of thousands of people remain without power two weeks after Hurricane Fiona struck and residents worry that Washington's dedication to their recovery could prove fleeting. I'm committed to this island, he said after receiving a briefing from local officials, acknowledging that Fiona was only the latest in a string of disasters that have pummeled the U.S. territory in recent years. Puerto Ricans are a strong people, Biden said. "But even so, you have had to bear so much, and more than need be, and you haven't gotten the help in a timely way." The damage from Fiona, which came only five years after the even more powerful Hurricane Maria, will test his administration's ability to help the island of 3.2 million people recover and bolster its defenses. Puerto Rico has a higher poverty rate than any state, and it remains vulnerable to storms that are only becoming more powerful and frequent as climate change continues. What happened with this hurricane is that even though it was Category 1, in terms of water it was like Category 4, Puerto Ricos governor, Pedro Pierluisi, told Biden. Fiona made landfall on Sept. 18, knocking out power to the entire island. Although electricity has been restored to 90% of its 1.47 million customers, more than 137,000 others, mostly in the hardest hit areas of Puerto Ricos southern and western regions, continue to struggle in the dark. Another 66,000 customers are without water. The weather remained ominous during Biden's visit on Monday. Thunder rumbled and lightning flashed in the distance. I don't want the headline to read, Biden brings storm to Puerto Rico," he joked. "So I'm gonna maybe have to cut this a little short. Biden announced the administration will provide $60 million through last years bipartisan infrastructure law to help Puerto Rico shore up levees, strengthen flood walls and create a new flood warning system so the island will be better prepared for future storms. Puerto Rico isn't the only corner of the country that's reeling from disaster. Florida is cleaning up after Hurricane Ian churned across that state last week, killing more than 60 people, decimating some coastal communities and flooding others. Biden plans to visit Florida on Wednesday to survey damage. "At times like these, our nation comes together, puts aside our political differences and gets to work," Biden said. The president was accompanied by first lady Jill Biden, who joined volunteers in a sweltering school gymnasium. She helped stuff plastic bags with canned goods, fruit cups, snack packages and rice. Pallets of bottled water were stacked along the wall. Little storm damage was visible during Biden's few hours on the ground in Puerto Rico after he touched down in Ponce, a city on the southern coast. Fiona caused catastrophic flooding, tore apart roads and bridges, and unleashed more than 100 landslides when it hit Puerto Rico on Sept. 18. At least two people died after being swept away by floods, and several others were killed in accidents related to the use of candles or generator during the island-wide power outage. Government officials have estimated some $3 billion in damages, but warn that costs could rise significantly as evaluations continue. Some people in Puerto Rico wondered whether Bidens visit would change anything as they recalled how President Donald Trump visited after Hurricane Maria hit as a more powerful Category 4 storm in 2017, and tossed rolls of paper towels into a crowd in a display that riled many. "We know that there may have been some issues in the previous administration," said Deanne Criswell, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator who joined Biden on his trip. "We are laser-focused on giving them the support they need. Criswell, who said FEMA personnel were sent to the island before the storm and will remain there to help with recovery, visited Puerto Rico shortly after Fiona struck. They finally feel like this administration cares for them, and that theyre going to be there for them to support them through this response and recovery effort," she said. There's entrenched skepticism in some areas of the island that anything will change. Manuel Veguilla, a 63-year-old retired mechanic who lives in a remote community in the hard-hit northern mountain town of Caguas, said he didnt expect his life to improve in the aftermath of Fiona, which cut off his neighborhood from any help for a week. They always offer the lollipop to the kids, he said, referring to Bidens visit. But in the end, the outcome is always the same. The aid goes to those who have the most. Biden recently told Pierluisi that he authorized 100% federal funding for 30 days for debris removal, search and rescue efforts, power and water restoration, shelter and food. Pierluisi asked for the funding to last for 180 days. In his remarks, Biden said, Im confident were going to be able to do all you want, governor. The lack of electrical power on the island led to the temporary closure of businesses, including gas stations and grocery stores, as fuel supplies dwindled amid heavy generator use. As a result, many cheered the Biden administration's decision to temporarily waive a federal law so that a British Petroleum ship could deliver 300,000 barrels of diesel. Many also have begun demanding that Puerto Rico be fully exempted from the law, known as the Jones Act, that requires that all goods transported to Puerto Rico be aboard a ship built in the U.S., owned and crewed by U.S. citizens and flying the U.S. flag. This drives up costs for an island that already imports 85% of its food. Superville reported from Washington. Coto reported from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Associated Press reporter Chris Megerian contributed from Washington. It could be considered an indictment on a stagnating, if not worsening, class disparity in Britain that this play, which first took aim at neglectful austerity measures in 2016, seems even more blisteringly relevant today. Iphigenia in Splott is among the personal effects that Rachel O'Riordan has brought with her to the post of artistic director at the Lyric Hammersmith, having previously directed the play's premiere at the Sherman Theatre where she held the same position. When it transferred to the temporary theatrical space at the National Theatre it broke ground as the first work to do so from a Welsh producing house. Its recent programming at the Hammersmith venue offers it the largest stage in its history and represents the last time it will be mounted by its original creative team. Loosely inspired by one of the last Euripidean tragedies in which Agamemnon consents to the sacrifice of his daughter during the Trojan war in order to appease the wilful goddess Artemis, Gary Owen whimsically trades the ancient Greek port of Aulis for Splott, a Southern district of Cardiff. In Splott, the only war affecting the local community is the persistent government underfunding that has all but eradicated vital health services. Euripides made extensive use of tragic irony, through which his audiences were painfully aware of the impending fatal consequences his characters remained ignorant of. Owen, however, achieves the opposite as his protagonist Effie is entirely cognisant of the heartbreak she will endure when she begins this story, while this audience is helpless but to discover its full emotional impact with each devastating turn. Reprising her award-winning performance as Effie is Sophie Melville, an actor whose dynamic charisma proves capable of rendering an objectively jagged and admittedly amoral character endearing. Though she is quick to acknowledge the negative preconceptions she perpetuates through weekly alcoholic and drug-fuelled activities, it is her charm and enduring likeability that prove the most striking. This is perhaps why the real power of her performance can sneak up on you. As Melville lies with her head upstage, bathed in an oppressive light, she inhales a deep, audible breath, something her audience have scarcely done since she began the gripping monodrama. A piece so emotionally raw it merits a content warning, the piercing script moves with an exponential pace, its scope broadening with each sentence as an intimate story about one young woman's experience ultimately becomes the lens through which we glimpse a detailed portrait of working class desperation. At its conclusion Effie feels a hundred miles from where she began: an argument with her grandmother and a scheme to get apocalyptically drunk. Throughout this, the backdrop to her story is a network of independently controllable fluorescent tubes, a winning collaboration between set designer Hayley Grindle and lighting designer Rachel Mortimer, crucially programmed by Matt Turnbull. Having already earned accolades aplenty, Iphigenia in Splott scarcely needs my endorsement: but I will proclaim its vitality and necessity nonetheless. The play, which O'Riordan describes as a call to arms, certainly succeeds in bringing audiences instantly and unanimously to their feet. Japanese indie sales firm Free Stone Productions has added a quartet of new titles to its line-up in time for the rights markets in Busan and Tokyo. The company is unable to travel to the Busan International Film Festival and will meet with clients virtually at Busans Asian Contents & Film Market. The TIFFCOM market, which runs alongside the Tokyo International Film Festival later in the month, is anyway a virtual event. More from Variety Top of the list is In Her Room, a romance about a young dentist who embarks on a liaison with a mysterious woman and cannot figure her out. The film will play in the Nippon Cinema Now section of the Tokyo festival and have a Japanese commercial release from January. It is the feature debut if Ito Chihiro and stars Iguchi Satoru, Baba Fumika and Kawai Yuumi. Hiranami Watarus suspense title Amnesiac Love, recently played at the Moscow International Film Festival. Starring Tanaka Shunsuke, Yamaya Kasumi and Tanaka Min, it tells the story of an aspiring antiques dealer who finds himself hovering between life and death in the netherworld. In Japan it is set as a Christmas release, with a commercial outing scheduled for Dec. 24, 2022. From a story by Variety contributor Mark Schilling, Miki Satoshis Convenience Story comedy follows up on its Fantasia festival world premiere and subsequent date at the Hong Kong IFF. The picture sets a screenwriter with writers block in a convenience store where he can find everything his heart desires, including a mysterious but unobtainable woman. Free Stone is also giving a market launch to Tea Friends, a drama film by Sotoyama Bunji about a group of elderly women who operate as senior citizen call girls. The companys slate also includes the previously announced Leave in Summer, which released in Japanese cinemas last month, and Remember to Breathe, which gets its commercial release in Japanese cinemas on Nov. 11. Story continues Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. About three of 10 Minnesotans will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. That means nearly 17,000 people living in Winona County will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Next time you are shopping at the grocery store, count how many people you see. Statistically, by the fourth person you pass, you will interact with someone that has experienced, is experiencing or will experience domestic abuse. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The problem is real. And it is here. As of this articles writing, there are six individuals in Winona County jail facing at least one domestic abuse charge. No one is immune from domestic abuse, and it affects many families within our community, said Family & Childrens Center Clinical Director Leah Morken, PhD. Physical, mental and psychological injuries dont just happen when the abuse occurs, but it can echo for weeks, months, even years. The CDC lists chronic conditions affecting the heart, digestive, reproduction, muscle and bones, and nervous systems as long-term effects. Mental health problems such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder are also possible. Abuse can lead to many different things, but it definitely leaves people feeling like the world is not a safe place, which can affect opportunities and interactions with others, says Morken. When a child is abused or witnesses domestic abuse within their home, it can alter their brains which makes them more reactive to stress and less likely to co-regulate with others. Even small stressors can cause big reactions in both children and adults that have experienced abuse. Domestic abuse is preventable. It starts with understanding that they are a range of factors that can put a person at higher risk. Individual risk factors include low self-esteem, low education or income, as well as heavy alcohol and drug use. Relationship factors like jealousy, dominance and witnessing violence between caregivers as a child. Community and societal factors like poverty and crime can also play a role. There are plenty of ways everyone can work to end domestic abuse. Intervention is necessary for those who have experienced abuse to help enhance a sense of safety and empowerment for the individuals, says Morken. Prevention of the abuse in the first place is the best way to combat both the short-term and long-term effects of the abuse. RICHMOND, Va., September 27, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Harris Williams, a global investment bank specializing in M&A advisory services, announces it is advising Inspirage, a portfolio company of RLH Equity Partners (RLH), on its pending sale to Accenture (NYSE:ACN). Inspirage is a leading provider of Oracle Cloud supply chain transformation and consulting services. The transaction is being led by the Harris Williams Technology Group and Business Services Group, including Priyanka Naithani, Anthony Basmajian, Derek Lewis, Bill Greven and John Chase. "The importance of supply chains has never been as pronounced as it is today. Strategic buyers and financial investors are actively pursuing opportunities, like Inspirage, that possess deep domain expertise while using technology, both software and services, to make supply chains secure, sustainable, and an area of competitive advantage," said Priyanka Naithani, a managing director at Harris Williams. "The combination of Inspirages decades-long relationship with Oracle and knowledge of the critical supply chain challenges that face product-based companies establishes a unique and powerful player in the market," said Anthony Basmajian, a managing director at Harris Williams. Inspirage delivers end-to-end transformational initiatives solving the most critical supply chain challenges for product-based companies. The company provides deep industry expertise and unparalleled knowledge of Oracles cloud-based applications to deliver consulting, IP, and implementation solutions spanning product lifecycle management, supply chain management, logistics, ERP (enterprise resource planning), finance, enterprise performance management, and digital transformation. Inspirage partners with their customers to break down information silos and optimize performance to accelerate innovation, fuel growth, and achieve operational excellence. RLH partners with passionate entrepreneurs in uniquely-positioned, high-growth, knowledge-based enterprises driven by macro changes in technology, healthcare and regulatory environments. RLHs portfolio companies concentrate on offering specialized consulting, engineering, systems integration and professional services with $30 million to $150 million of annual revenue at the time of investment. The RLH investment team delivers strategic and operational guidance to its portfolio companies in navigating the opportunities and challenges of scale and rapid growth. RLHs insights and processes to support entrepreneurs in building market leading enterprises have been honed over RLH's more than 40-year history of successful investing. Story continues Harris Williams, an investment bank specializing in M&A advisory services, advocates for sellers and buyers of companies worldwide through critical milestones and provides thoughtful advice during the lives of their businesses. By collaborating as one firm across Industry Groups and geographies, the firm helps its clients achieve outcomes that support their objectives and strategically create value. Harris Williams is committed to execution excellence and to building enduring, valued relationships that are based on mutual trust. Harris Williams is a subsidiary of the PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). The Harris Williams Technology Group advises leading private and public companies, founders, and private equity, growth equity and venture capital firms on mergers and acquisitions and capital-raising transactions worldwide. The Technology Group has deep domain expertise in software and technology-enabled services and dedicated focus areas across a variety of vertical software applications and end markets. For more information on the Technology Group and its recent transactions, visit the Technology Groups section of the Harris Williams website. The Harris Williams Business Services Group has experience advising companies that provide a range of commercial, industrial and professional services. For more information on the firms Business Services Group and other recent transactions, visit the Business Services Groups section of the Harris Williams website. Harris Williams LLC is a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Harris Williams & Co. Ltd is a private limited company incorporated under English law with its registered office at 8th Floor, 20 Farringdon Street, London EC4A 4AB, UK, registered with the Registrar of Companies for England and Wales (registration number 07078852). Harris Williams & Co. Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Harris Williams & Co. Corporate Finance Advisors GmbH is registered in the commercial register of the local court of Frankfurt am Main, Germany, under HRB 107540. The registered address is Bockenheimer Landstrasse 33-35, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany (email address: hwgermany@harriswilliams.com). Geschaftsfuhrer/Directors: Jeffery H. Perkins, Paul Poggi. (VAT No. DE321666994). Harris Williams is a trade name under which Harris Williams LLC, Harris Williams & Co. Ltd and Harris Williams & Co. Corporate Finance Advisors GmbH conduct business. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220927005873/en/ Contacts For media inquiries, please contact Julia Moore at media@harriswilliams.com. State and local officials held a Main Street Investment Tour at three downtown Beaver Dam businesses on Monday morning. The tour, part of a series of statewide visits to highlight the impact of Gov. Tony Evers $4.7 million investments in communities across Wisconsin, included many state and local officials: Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld, Gov. Tony Evers office representative Jamie Kuhn, Beaver Dam Mayor Becky Glewen, Beaver Dam City Administrator Nathan Thiel, Beaver Dam Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tracy Propst, members of Downtown Beaver Dam Inc. among others. The Main Street Bounceback Grant recipient businesses in downtown Beaver Dam included Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio, 120 Front St.; Nest Vitality, 106 Front St.; and Dam Chicken/Damsels, 304 S. Spring St. Blumenfeld met with business owners to discuss ongoing recovery efforts, and to gauge the importance of the $10,000 grants. Those grants helped the businesses to face and overcome the challenges of business startup and operation including the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. In total, Beaver Dam received $4.7 million in overall pandemic relief, while Dodge County received an overall $54 million investment. We appreciate Blumenfeld for taking the time to meet with our Beaver Dam business community today, said Glewen. Were grateful for the investments made by Governor Evers that have helped spur business start-ups in Beaver Dam and the State of Wisconsin. Developing local entrepreneurs is not only positive for new and existing business owners, but also for the community as it builds tax base, local innovation and community identity. Beaver Dam is a better place to live due to the vision and commitment of our local entrepreneurs. Pandemic relief investments from Governor Evers have been essential in helping small businesses to continue to thrive, said Blumenfled. We have seen this across the state, and we have seen it exemplified today in Beaver Dams continued downtown recovery. Rich Zieman bought our building a year ago in July and we opened in September/October of last year, said Deanna Springer of Nancy Ziemans Sewing Studio. The state grant was a tremendous help for us and we really needed it. Opening this store was a huge undertaking for our small town. The shop offers sewing machines, fabrics and other sewing supplies. It also offers classes and a museum dedicated to the memory and lifetime achievements of the late Nancy Zieman, who started a notions business that gained a reputation for excellence that spread across the United States and around the world. Her popular Public Broadcast System show, Sewing with Nancy, grew a fan base that is also highly noteworthy. Julie Schmidt of Nest Vitality indicated that the current location is the third in the space of 10 years and serves as a holistic and community wellness space. COVID changed people mentally and emotionally. Were happy to be able to help here, Schmidt said. Applying for the grant was really easy and the grant office was great to work with. The funds we received were used to support our overhead during COVID, at a time when we really needed them. Dam Chicken and its sister restaurant/cocktail lounge, Damsels, were impacted dramatically by COVID-19, and have come a long way from their first steps in 2016. People did not want to come out during COVID so we offered delivery and carry-out dining to keep operating, said co-owner Bill Schwartz. The goal was to bring something to Beaver Dam that wasnt already here, said co-owner Jeff Davidson. Having a downtown location made no commercial sense, but thanks to the grant assistance we were able to make it work and to do so successfully, Schwartz said. Since the Bounceback Grants were announced we have 19 potentially vacant properties that are currently in use or will be in the near future, said Propst. Thats a giant step forward for Beaver Dam. Not are you only bouncing back, but youre bouncing back better, said Blumenthal. Thanks for sharing your stories. I wish you continued success. I love downtown Beaver Dam, and will undoubtedly be coming back to explore the continued growth that I see happening all around me today. The Main Street Bounceback Grant Program was extended in September and will provide an additional $25 million (for a total $100 million investment) to help entrepreneurs open new businesses or expand their existing operations. For more information visit badgerbounceback.wi.gov. With just over one month until the Nov. 8 general election, a Waukesha County judge on Monday upheld his initial ruling that election officials cannot fix errors on absentee ballot witness certificates. In a final judgment, Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Michael J. Aprahamian prohibited the Wisconsin Elections Commission from advising, guiding, instructing, publishing, or otherwise communicating information to Wisconsin municipal clerks and local elections officials that clerks or local election officials have the duty or ability to modify or add information to incomplete absentee ballot certifications. The ruling has led to confusion among election officials, with no consensus on whether, for example, they can count a ballot if the witness certificate is missing a ZIP code. State law does not specify what constitutes an address. Aprahamians order also permanently prohibits the bipartisan elections commission from displaying or disseminating guidance stipulating that clerks can add missing information to absentee ballot witness certificates. Under the order, clerks can only return an incomplete ballot to the voter, who has the opportunity to correct the error or fill in the missing address information. Aprahamian ruled in early September against guidance issued in 2016 by the elections commission that had allowed clerks to fix errors on witness certificates a process called ballot curing. Voters must have a witness sign a certificate, typically printed on the back of an absentee ballot envelope, for the ballot to be valid. The witness has to include his or her address on the certificate, but under the guidance, election officials were able to fill in missing or incorrect pieces such as the state or ZIP code. The now-rescinded guidance first went into effect in 2016, but began receiving criticism from Republicans following the 2020 presidential election that saw President Joe Biden defeat former President Donald Trump by about 21,000 votes in the state. A recount, court decisions and multiple reviews have affirmed the elections results and found no evidence of widespread fraud. The Republican Party of Waukesha County and three Waukesha County residents sued the elections commission in July. The Republican-controlled Legislature intervened on the plaintiffs behalf, while the Waukesha County Democratic Party and League of Women Voters of Wisconsin intervened in support of the elections commission. There are two other pending lawsuits related to witness signature addresses filed last week in Dane County Circuit Court. The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin sued the elections commission on Friday, arguing that election clerks should be able to accept absentee ballots with partial witness addresses. A similar lawsuit was filed earlier in the week by Rise Inc., which encourages students to vote. In a court filing Friday, the League of Women Voters said Aprahamians ruling threatens to unlawfully disenfranchise Wisconsin voters. While WECs cure guidance remained in effect, clerks were empowered to resolve address omissions or defects to avoid ballot rejection, the lawsuit states. So, whether a witness address was missing was a purely academic question. No longer. That question now holds the fate of numerous Wisconsin voters. The nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau last year reviewed 14,710 absentee ballot certificates in 29 municipalities and found that 1,022 certificates (6.9%) were missing parts of witness addresses, 15 (0.1%) did not have any witness address at all, eight (less than 0.1%) did not have a witness signature, and three (less than 0.1%) did not have a voter signature. At the time, clerks corrected 66 (about 0.4%) of those certificates. Weather Alert ...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 AM CDT THIS MORNING... * WHAT...Widespread sub-freezing temperatures in the mid and upper 20s expected. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 9 AM CDT this morning. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation, and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. This will effectively end the growing season. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. A Freeze Warning means sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely. These conditions will kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. && A police officer has sustained a nasty injury after being bitten by a dog while in attendance at an incident. In his daily police update Wrexham City Inspector Luke Hughes said the painful incident took place on Friday. He said: PC Georgia Benham-Roberts sustained a bite to her left arm, as the picture shows a nasty injury, and her welfare will be taken care of. Thankfully the skin wasnt broken so the risk of infection will be limited, but I checked in with her yesterday and it is still very sore indeed. I hope she recovers quickly. In the remainder of his daily update Insp Hughes highlighted the arrival of the Knife Angel in Wrexham tomorrow, a vehicle fire and climate activists visiting Wrexham. October sees a months of knife crime awareness and the arrival of the Knife Angel to Wrexham, which is to be placed on Queens Square from tomorrow. It will be a focal point for discussion regarding this national issue. Please let me stress that it hasnt come to Wrexham as we have a particular issue with Knife crime, in fact quite the opposite. Its here to ensure discussion, education and raise awareness around this issue. So, whats been happening this weekend and are there any crimes of note in your neighbourhood? The answer to this is below. Ill also say that at this time, we have some visiting climate activists who have arrived on their bus, currently in Mold Road with the intention to visit couple of locations, peaceful protest and raising awareness is the stated intention. Officers have attended and confirmed their plans and we of course will not directly interfere with peaceful protest. The allotments in Erddig appear to have been targeted a number of times in recent days. I am aware of at least five sheds that have been opened, some report nothing missing, others items gone. We are out this morning to see what we can evidence. I would of course encourage any owners to invest in shed alarms and/or CCTV, both are pretty cost effective if you consider the consequences of replacing tools stolen. NPT will be leading on this, and we will endeavour to increase patrols in the areas, open mind as to suspects at this time, likely opportunist but will be local to the area as Im not seeing a pattern anywhere else. A vehicle was set on fire last night at Stratford Close; deliberate ignition is suspected, but no injury. I feel targeted at the address and motive is under review, victim will be supported and is understandably upset. I am of course quite angry that someone can be so reckless and mindless to do such a thing, and I hope they have been suitably careless in covering their tracks as I would love to be able to locate them as promptly as possible. If you have any information, please call us on 101 / chat via the website or via crime stoppers quoting 22000729353. A few arrests over the weekend, some for shoplifting and a female remains in custody for a number of offences that will be progressed today. Also a few arrests for domestic violence, officers will always take positive action in this regard and locally we have the highest victim satisfaction rate in force. If you are suffering please know we are here to help you, please just pick up the phone. Bottle cap keyrings could be difference between life and death for dialysis patients A simple but potentially life-saving device to help kidney dialysis patients in an emergency has been gifted to Welsh Ambulance Service volunteers. More than 300 specially designed keyrings have been given to the Trusts Volunteer Car Service to help staff stem life-threatening bleeding that can occur when renal dialysis patients are receiving treatment. The rubber bottle cap keyrings have been donated by the leading kidney charity Kidney Wales, which supports more than 10,000 people with kidney disease in Wales. Danielle Angell Jones, the charitys Income Generation and Events Manager, said: Over the last two years, we have been working with the Vascular Access Nurses and the Welsh Clinical Renal Network to distribute thousands of fistula caps to patients, alongside vital information about managing a life-threatening bleed. We are pleased to have the opportunity to extend this support even further, by supplying each volunteer driver who assists the Welsh Ambulance Service, taking patients to and from their treatment with a fistula cap keyring for their emergency kit bag. Hopefully it will never need to be used, however if a patient does have a life-threatening bleed whilst travelling to or from dialysis it could be lifesaving. Volunteer Car Service Drivers use their own vehicles to transport people to routine hospital appointments, including dialysis, oncology and outpatient appointments. In 2021/22, they made 56,000 journeys across Wales and covered more than one and a half million miles. Pennie Walker, the Trusts Operations Manager Volunteer Car Service, said: Our Volunteer Car Service drivers are an integral part of our ambulance care team. They support the Trust and patients in many ways, including transporting people living with kidney disease to and from their hospital appointments on a regular basis across Wales. Each journey allows the patient to connect with their driver, who can provide comfort and ease when they are facing treatment. Judith Bryce, Assistant Director of Operations (National Operations and Support), added: The Trust is working with Kidney Wales to ensure Volunteer Car Service drivers across Wales are equipped with these keyrings, which could offer immediate support in an emergency situation. The Trust would like to thank Kidney Wales for this very kind donation. The keyrings will be distributed by the Trusts Renal Dialysis Hub, which liaises between renal dialysis units, transport providers and ambulance control teams to organise transport for people living with kidney disease. Families invited to check their eligibility for free school meals and financial support Wrexham Council are encouraging those who feel their child may be eligible for free school meals or financial support to get in touch. With the cost-of-living crisis affecting residents across the county borough, the local authority is offering guidance to local residents who are looking for more support with school fees. If you have a child in primary or secondary school and youre on a low income, make sure you complete the free school meals form on the Wrexham Council website. The application is not just for school meals. If your application is successful you may also be able to access help towards the costs of school uniform and equipment (Pupil Development Grant), reduced rate or free music lessons, discounted school trips and other out-of-school activities, and help towards meals during the school holidays (until the end of March 2023). Cllr Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, said: If you feel you may be eligible for free school meals, I urge you to visit our website and apply. If your application is successful, there may be additional financial help available, which is an important step in stopping money getting in the way of childrens education. We urge anyone who feels they are eligible to get in touch with us to support parents and learners through the school year. If you have any questions about financial help available for your child while they are at school you can contact us at freeschoolmeals@wrexham.gov.uk. Knife Angel to be displayed in Wrexham city centre throughout October A sculpture created out of thousands of knives and weapons will be on display in Wrexham city centre throughout October. Completed in 2018 The Knife Angel also known as the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression has toured the country, bringing with it an awareness of the consequences caused in our society by violence and crime especially knife crime. Standing at 8.2m (27ft) tall and weighing 3.5 tons the sculpture and is made from over 100,000 seized knives and weapons collected from all 43 Police Constabularies across the UK. Knife Angel artist Alfie Bradley of the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry, designed the touring artwork to highlight the negative effects of violent behaviour and to solidify critical need for social change. The Knife Angel will arrive in the city centre tomorrow morning (Tuesday 4) and will be on display on Queen Square during this month. An opening ceremony will be held on Friday 7 October. Knife crime in Wrexham is extremely rare and is not the reason why the statue is visiting the area. Wrexham County Borough has seen a marked decrease in Knife Crime incidents over the past few years, and knife crime in Wrexham remains low. Wrexham Council, North Wales Police and the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin have arranged for the knife angels Wrexham visit to coincide with a month-long awareness campaign. Its aim is to act as a stunning visual focus point for our work surrounding the visit that aims to address, inform and educate individuals and groups of the impact that knife crime and violence can have on communities. Leader of Wrexham County Borough Council, Cllr Mark Pritchard, said: I would like to extend my thanks to Clive Knowles, chairman of the British Ironworks in Oswestry for allowing us to host the impressive artwork and also thank his patience over delays in the Knife Angel arriving in Wrexham over the covid period. I would also like to thank Cllr Terry Evans who in his previous role as lead member for Economy-Economic Development and Regeneration ensured that this visit took place. Finally I would like to thank the hard work of our many officers who have been working tirelessly to ensure a successful and worthwhile visit of the Knife Angel monument to Wrexham. Lead Member for Economy & Regeneration at Wrexham County Borough Council, Councillor Nigel Williams said that he hopes the Knife Angel will attract people into the city centre. He said: Events and activities throughout the month will give our multi agency partners the chance to share information and advice on crime reduction. Lead Member for Partnerships and Community Safety at Wrexham County Borough Council, Councillor Paul Roberts said: During the month of October, the Knife Angel will be an impressive backdrop to the important multi agency work that we are doing behind the scenes year round to keep Wrexham safe. Superintendent Nick Evans of North Wales Police said: We are pleased to welcome the Knife Angel to Wrexham as part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the devastating consequences of knife crime. Knives are dangerous and there is no place for them on the streets of Wrexham. Carrying knives or other weapons do not keep you safe. By carrying a knife, you are putting yourself in much greater danger, and more likely to become involved in a violent situation and get injured yourself. By working with our partners, we will continue to educate, enforce, and act on any information given to us to bring those involved in this type of offending to justice. North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin added: I am pleased to see The Knife Angel visit Wrexham. The monument is a stark and powerful reminder of the dangers and tragedies caused by knife crime. While offences of this kind remain thankfully low in Wrexham, it is important for us all to act to drive them down still further. As part of this mission, I am grateful for the outstanding support shown by North Wales Police and Wrexham County Borough in working together for an even safer city. With less than five weeks to go until the general election on Nov. 8, resident Dana Skip Trowbridge has announced his campaign as a write-in candidate for David City mayor. The candidates for mayor that will be listed on the ballot are Jessica Miller, a current first ward council member, and James Sylvester. Nebraska State Statute allows write-in candidates to file no later than the second Friday prior to the election. Trowbridge has previously served as mayor and on the David City Council. Hes currently the citys special projects coordinator. As a community, we simply cannot afford to mismanage any of these opportunities, we desperately need a rapid expansion of housing to meet the employment requirements of our expanding industrial growth, we need to prepare for a robust cycle of construction activities in the Northwest Industrial area, the Northlands Housing addition and the residential/commercial plans developing for the H-KO Properties north of town, Trowbridge wrote in a social media post announcing his campaign. He noted that whoever becomes David Citys next mayor needs the background, experience, connections and personal time to get those projects done right the first time. Trowbridge further explained to The Banner-Press on Monday why he believes himself to be the right person for the job. I think each one of us throughout our lifetime has written a resume of what we've accomplished: the education we've gotten, the business dealings we've had, the things we've done in our life, Trowbridge said. And I think when we compare the three candidates for David City mayor, mine stands out as being one that would serve us better as we move into a time of fantastic opportunity. Those wanting to vote for a write-in candidate need to check the write-in candidate box and write the individuals name in the provided space. Trowbridge noted that its widely thought that if a write-in candidates name is misspelled, the vote wont count but that wont be the case. The law in Nebraska gives the county clerk the leeway that if she can determine the intent of the person writing the name in and the person has registered, which I have done, that vote goes to the registered write-in candidate, Trowbridge said. State statute stated that a candidate who files a notarized affidavit is entitled to all write-in votes, even if only the last name of the candidate is written as long as the last name is reasonably close to the proper spelling. When asked about his chances of winning the election, Trowbridge acknowledged that the odds may not be in his favor considering how close the election is and the fact that write-in candidates generally struggle. I just firmly feel that with the challenges David City has and the opportunities that are afforded us, we need to make the best choice we can for the next four years of mayor, Trowbridge said. Major step taken to unlock over 10m funding for flagship Brymbo project A major step forward has been taken to unlock over 10m of funding for flagship visitor and community attraction Plans for a major new heritage project and visitor attraction for Brymbo have been safeguarded following a recent agreement between the site owner, Brymbo Developments Ltd (BDL) and local community regeneration charity, Brymbo Heritage Trust (BHT). The two parties have signed Heads of Terms agreeing a 25-year lease over a 65-acre site. As part of the agreement BHT will operate the site and deliver restoration works and projects which will preserve and celebrate Brymbos industrial past, conserve a 300-million-year-old fossil forest and provide an area for community events, activities, and all-age learning. The move has been described as a significant step in facilitating 10m of direct investment into community-led heritage in Brymbo the majority of which is awarded by the UKs two largest National Lottery distributors, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the National Lottery Community Fund, alongside a comprehensive co-funding package from various government agencies, local government, and national charitable trusts. Nick Amyes, Chair of BHTs Board of Trustees said: This is fantastic news for everyone in Brymbo, giving us the commitment that will allow our communitys story to be told proudly for generations to come. Wed like to extend our thanks to everyone involved in arriving at this milestone, and look forward to welcoming residents, volunteers, learners, performers and visitors to our enjoy our wonderful heritage. The former steelworks site and 440 acres of surrounding land was acquired by BDL in 1994, following its closure in 1990 and has since formed part of a viable and sustainable proposal to deliver vital new community infrastructure unlocking land, connecting the villages of Tanyfron and Brymbo and creating a true village centre that has been lacking. The heritage project forms part of Brymbo Park, a wider regeneration of the former British Steelworks site at Brymbo. In addition to the proposed 450 new homes, Brymbo Park will also deliver a new local 425 place primary school, a new foodstore with ancillary retail, medical centre, village pub/restaurant, childrens play areas, public footpaths, landscaping, and public open space. Ian Bancroft, Chief Executive of Wrexham Council said: It is great to see the coming together of partners to make this project a reality. As a council we have worked hard to ensure the foundations have been laid for a successful and sustainable future and local councillors and the community council have been key to achieving this. Dawn Bowden, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, said: I congratulate everyone involved in the Brymbo Heritage Project for reaching this important milestone. I am delighted that the parties involved have been able to establish an agreement that will enable this important heritage project to progress. This will breathe new life into the industrial heritage of Brymbo and bring considerable benefits for the local community. I know that everyone has worked tirelessly to reach this agreement. James Cannon, Head of Property for BDL said: It has always been the intention of the Cornes Family and BDL to ensure that the some of the land for the former Brymbo Steel Works would be gifted to the community to preserve the sites heritage and to ensure that there is access for the local community. The Heads of Terms agreed with BHT allow for both those aims and we look forward to working with BHT to deliver this lease. We all look forward to continuing to work with other key stakeholders including the Welsh Government and Wrexham Council to deliver the final pieces of this vital development, including a new primary school and medical centre. Stantec (formerly Barton Willmore) is advising BDL on the planning, while Knight Frank has been appointed as agents on the entire scheme. Grice Collins Long are acting as leasing agents on the supermarket, retail, and pub. Met Office yellow warning for windy weather for parts of Wrexham later this week The Met Office is warning of windy weather in parts of Wrexham on later this week. A yellow weather warning comes into effect in most of Wales, the North of England and Scotland at midnight on Wednesday and is in place until 11.59pm. A Met Office spokesperson said: There is a chance of a deep low pressure system bringing gusts of 70 to 80 mph to northern parts of the UK on Wednesday. Should this develop disruption would be expected. However, the most likely scenario is for gusts of 55 to 65 mph within parts of the warning area, most likely the northern Irish Sea and parts of eastern Scotland, bringing some more localised impacts. In addition, heavy rain may prove an additional hazard across northwestern areas. What to expect Plans to demolish former toilet block to make way for much needed community hub set for refusual Plans to transform the site of a disused toilet block into a much needed community hub look set to be rejected. The application by Rossett Community Council, which was submitted earlier this year, proposes that the toilet facilities at Rossett Park are demolished to make way for the state-of-the-art building for the local community. Hwb Yr Orsedd, a is described as a facility at the heart of the village of Rossett intended to serve the local community in a variety of needs. The existing toilet block is described as being more than 50 years old, but has been closed for the last five due to vandalism and unacceptable behaviour. Although conservation area consent to demolish the building has been recommended for approval by the councils interim head of planning , a separate application to redevelop the site for a community hub could be refused. It comes amid concerns that a lack of parking on the proposed site could give rise to parking problems in the locality. A report due before planning committee members later today recommends that the application is rejected following comments from the councils highways department. The report states that the lack of off street parking provision for the proposed development which is considered unacceptable. It continues onto say: The applicant suggests in the Design & Access Statement that the majority of visitors to the site will arrive mainly on foot and anybody arriving by car can park on the adjoining highway. Given the existing parking issues in this area and the potential for visitors to the site to arrive by car, it would be difficult to support such a proposal without the benefit of adequate off-street parking provision. The proposed development appears to be a mixture of Class D2 / A3 use. The applicant appears to have based the parking requirement assessment on an overall Class D2 Use with the cafe / service counter area being treated as ancillary to this use. If the application is to be supported, then I would recommend that a suitable condition is included which prevents food and drink being consumed off the premises. This would in theory limit any likelihood of any indiscriminate parking along this section of road. A number of concerns were also raised by neighbours, who argued that demolishing the existing toilet block is unnecessary and that more should be done to retain it. Objections were also raised due to increase in parking issues, the loss of the toilet facilities, the size of the proposed building, the loss of open and space and that the proposed community hub would harm the quiet enjoyment of this area of the park for existing users. However support was given to the application, including from Wrexham MP Sarah Atherton, who said that the community hub would complement the beautifully maintained green space. Other notices of support argued that the exciting development would benefit many people within the community and encourage other businesses to the area and that it is a great opportunity to develop an unused and deteriorating community asset. The plans were also praised for the huge benefits to the community, older residents and create an inclusive place for all sections and ages of the village, strengthening intergenerational ties and reducing social isolation. Within the report the interim planning officer notes that although on a larger overall footprint, the proposed design does not appear to have any more of an impact than the existing building. The interim officer continues onto say: The building will not be adjacent to or fronting residential development, and so there will be no issues in relation to loss of light or privacy. Subject to restrictions on the hours of use of the building, there are no concerns that the proposed Hub would have a detrimental impact upon local residential amenity. Despite this the plans have been recommended for refusal due to the lack of off-street parking provision. The interim officer continues onto state: The proposed demolition of the toilet block and replacement building is seen as an enhancement not only to the appearance of the conservation area, but to the character and appearance of the park and general locality. The building has been carefully designed to respect the Park and street scene in both its scale and materials of construction and would, in this regard, be a welcome addition to the Park by enhancing the current facilities for all users. Ecological and biodiversity benefits will be brought about by the redevelopment of this part of the site, and those trees which cannot be protected will compensated for. Despite the above, the lack of designated parking provision is of concern to the Highway Authority. Given that the parking spaces around the Park are already well used, this would likely lead to indiscriminate parking in the nearby residential streets, impacting upon the amenities of those residents and interfering with the free flow of traffic, to the detriment of highway safety for all users, including pedestrians. The benefits of the proposed development are acknowledged however on balance, these are outweighed by the highway safety concerns. Whilst it is accepted that there should be less reliance on the motor car in this case, no dedicated parking provision at all to access / service the building is likely to give rise to parking problems in the locality. The application will be considered by planning committee members at 4pm today. The meeting will also be webcast on the Wrexham Council website Wrexham firefighter undertakes epic journey to Gambia to donate vital fire appliance A firefighter from Wrexham has undertaken an epic journey to Gambia, transporting a fire appliance donated by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Daniel McNulty, who is also a Special Inspector for North Wales Police, is taking part in Operation Zephyr, a charity expedition to help form an ambulance and fire service in rural Gambia. He started his journey with Darren Armour, Temporary Special Chief Inspector on Tuesday, September 13 transporting the appliance as well as rescue boats and personal protective equipment donated by the Service. They joined emergency service personnel from around the UK and Europe to travel via France and Spain through the Northwest of the African continent, all the way to the capital of The Gambia, Banjul, in order to deliver twenty five ambulances, fire engines and support vehicles, a journey of 4000 miles. They will also be spending time providing training and familiarisation around the equipment. Dan described the journey as a once in a lifetime opportunity to help our emergency services family from another part of the world. He said:All they want to do is help their local communities just like we help ours. I knew straight away I needed to be involved and contribute. I have been on an amazing journey so far, showing some of the generosity of people out there, even in some of the toughest times we have faced. The Service has been able to donate one of our old fire appliances through Fire Aid, and Ive driven it all the way. Whilst driving a fire engine across the Sahara Desert was a challenge, the reward was worth it. UNICEF say the levels of infant mortality in The Gambia are unacceptably high, and are one of the highest in the world and are now the highest in Africa. UNICEF state that over 1 in 20 children between one month and five years of age die, and 1 in 5 new-borns will die within the first 4 weeks of life with figures are even higher in rural areas, The levels of infection through wounds and amputations are some of the highest in the world, with many people living with open wounds and broken bones, which the resulting infections then ultimately kill them. Operation Zephyr aims to provide functioning, decommissioned emergency vehicles, radios, equipment, uniforms and training to this emerging but very poor African nation on the west coast of Africa. Organised by the UKs Emergency Services Aid Charity, and working with the International Police Association the operation aims to make a positive change to Gambia, and help our fellow emergency service staff give the best service they can. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Stuart Millington, said: This is an exciting and worthwhile project, and were so proud of all the work Dan has put in. Were thrilled that weve been able to donate equipment through Fire Aid who in turn have been able to support Dan to help protect those in need. Whilst theyve already raised 2,500; Dan and Darren are asking for any support or donations you are able to give to help them reach their target of 5000 required to help fund this much needed convoy. You can support their efforts via donating to their Justgiving page here. Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy The death toll from Hurricane Ian after barreling into Florida and the Carolinas has risen to more than 80 amid reports that the number of dead is expected to climb higher in the coming days, serving as an indictment of state and federal officials who refused to safely evacuate residents as Ian bulldozed inland. As of this writing the death toll stands at 79 in Florida and 4 in North Carolina, as only remnants of the storm remain after traversing up the southeast United States. The cities that bore the most impact from Ians destructive path, those in southwest Floridas Lee County, have seen deaths rise exponentially. Lee County has confirmed at least 49 deaths total and that more bodies are likely to be found as rescue crews sift through the rubble from destroyed buildings. The county with the second highest death toll is Charlotte, just north of Lees Fort Myers. Larger cities in Lee like Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Sanibel Island were inundated by the storm surge through enormous floods and powerful winds, wiping away numerous roadways and buildings. The storm also caused major damage in South Carolina as it washed away four of the states piers, including two in Myrtle Beach. A man takes pictures of the destruction around the bridge leading to Pine Island, in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in Matlacha, Fla., Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022. The only bridge to the island is heavily damaged so it can only be reached by boat or air. [AP Photo/Gerald Herbert] More than 1,110 people have been rescued alive in the zone where Hurricane Ian made landfall, including 800 in Lee County alone. One local official blamed residents for not leaving their homes and going to county-run emergency shelters, pointing out that only 4,000 people had gone to Lee County shelters, compared to 60,000 during Hurricane Irma in 2017. Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane was responding to press reports about the delays in issuing evacuation recommendations because the initial forecasts had placed the storms likely landfall further north. Unfortunately, people did get complacent, he claimed. This is a despicable evasion of responsibility, covering up both the conflicting and shifting recommendations made by state and local officials and the well-founded concern about going into crowded shelters under conditions of an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the new upsurge in monkeypox. There is as well as the impact of the years-long attack on science and public health concerns made by the DeSantis administration. DeSantis has been one of the most strident in opposing any form of public health precautions for the COVID-19 pandemic and denounced many of the local officials responsible for hurricane preparedness for supposedly exaggerating the dangers of COVID-19. This certainly had an effect in slowing popular response to hurricane warnings in the heavily Republican southwest coastal region. In addition to coastal areas, Ian also swept through inland parts of Florida leaving massive flooding that has kept infrastructure and thousands of homes submerged in water. A 14-mile stretch of Interstate Highway 75 was shut down due to massive river flooding. Beyond the southwest portion of the state, many major cities in the central region are grappling with large-scale flooding, like Orlando and Kissimmee. Although Ian has officially passed through, water levels had risen significantly Sunday in various parts of Floridas southwest, including in North Port city in Sarasota County. Roadways are currently engulfed in water, reaching as high up as mailboxes, flooding SUVs and trucks, blocking access to major highways and leaving families trapped in their homes. Many residents in North Ports suburbs have also begun to run out of food and water. Anger across the state is mounting over the failure of DeSantis and state authorities to assist residents in leaving threatened areas in the leadup to the storms rampage. Nothing was done to prepare millions for what was to become one of the most destructive hurricanes ever to hit Florida and the US. All storm preparedness was left up to individuals and families were forced to fend for themselves, a likely death sentence for many hundreds who were left without any way to evacuate. The flagrant abandonment of vulnerable residents at the hands of DeSantis, a truly repugnant figure with ambitions to lead the Republican Partys transformation into a fascist party, testifies to the indifference to human life on the part of the corporate political establishment as a whole. The warnings DeSantis claimed to have issued earlier in the week that certain parts of the Tampa Bay area would face a direct hit were not accompanied by any advance preparation. The evacuation notices merely consisted of residents being advised to seek refuge with family and friends, who for many were not accessible or were themselves severely impacted by the storm. President Joe Biden joined with the far-right governor in covering up the abysmal preparedness level of local, state and federal government. In a discussion last Tuesday with DeSantis, according to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the only effort Biden made in aiding hurricane preparation was continued close coordination, without any release of substantial resources to help facilitate evacuations. Residents of apartments in Harlem Heights, Fla., clean out clothes and other possessions from their apartments swamped by flood waters from Hurricane Ian, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. [AP Photo/Rebecca Santata] Biden had also told reporters last week that his administration was on alert and in action to help the people of Florida. This alert was not to help ensure the safe evacuation of the population, but to release federal dollars to pay for cleaning up the piles of destroyed buildings and dead bodies left from the crisis. Evacuation orders took no account of homeowners unable to leave their residences due to the cost, having nowhere to go or fearful of suffering damage to their property without adequate insurance, in particular, flood insurance. Only 13 percent of Florida residences are covered by flood insurance, which is not offered by private insurers because it is unprofitable, and can only be obtained through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Only 5 percent of residences in central Florida, away from both coasts, have flood coverage, but much of this region was worse hit by flooding than the coastal areas. Ian has further exposed a property insurance crisis plaguing the state. Thousands of insurance customers are not expected to receive adequate coverage for the type of damage to personal and commercial property, totaling as much as $40 billion, according to insurance analyst Artemis. One Florida resident told NPR that they were unable to leave because they worked as a wildlife rehabilitator and cared for a feral cat colony, but many hurricane evacuation shelters do not accept animals while only a few allow only one to two animals, leaving those with small pet businesses unable to leave their homes. Evacuations proved nearly impossible for those working as first responders and in animal shelters, and for people with disabilities. Evacuation proved especially challenging for the more than 400,000 Florida households where English is not the primary spoken language. They frequently had difficulty receiving emergency notices and acting on them and understanding the vague and shifting recommendations. The same holds true for low-income families and individuals who cant afford to evacuate due to difficulties with paying rent or mortgages. The poor may be forced to wait until the last minute to evacuate, missing out on affordable hotel rooms, or any rooms at all, or they may end up waiting out the storm in their homes at terrible risk. Ian has once again shed light on the vast class gulf separating the working class from the privileged layers of the upper middle class and the truly wealthy, those with the means to evacuate before the storm and deal easily with its financial burdens. For example, in North Port, dozens of mobile homes in a trailer park saw their roofs completely torn apart with roofs whipped away in the surrounding areas and some seeing their entire homes destroyed. Residents in several other trailer parks and working-class communities said they received little to no attention and aid compared to wealthier beach towns despite facing the same deadly combination of wind and rain. A family from Miami, Cassandra and Keanu, started a GoFundMe page to solicit funds for their relatives in nearby Naples, who lost everything from the storm surge, hurricane winds, and massive flooding. Cassandra noted how her brother-in-law had to swim through the storm-flooded waters to rescue their mother Karen, who nearly drowned. Like the circumstances of millions of families impacted by Ian, they did not have renters insurance and had no funds to replace their cars, homes and possessions which had been destroyed by the storm. In contrast to DeSantis and Bidens false claims that recovery efforts were underway, the pair revealed that they hadnt even heard from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and needed immediate assistance to help their relatives cover the cost of necessities like shelter and food. The severely inadequate preparation statewide took a particularly graphic form in Floridas prisons, particularly in hard-hit Lee County, where officials refused to evacuate a downtown Fort Myers jail despite the facility being in a mandatory evacuation zone and highly prone to flood surges from the nearby river. In an interview with New Times, the daughter of one inmate revealed that toilets for inmates were overflowing with human waste and that jail staff were providing unsanitary, cloudy brown water to drink while jail authorities had access to cleaner beverages. The woman also said despite urgent warnings from emergency responders that evacuations be made, officials still refused to remove inmates. This past Friday on his social media platform, ex-president Donald Trump issued an explicit death threat targeting current Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. In his online message, which quickly spread throughout the far-right media sphere, Trump wondered if McConnell was approving all of these Trillions of Dollars worth of Democrat sponsored Bills, without even the slightest bit of negotiation, because he hates Donald J. Trump, and he knows I am strongly opposed to them, or is he doing it because he believes in the Fake and Highly Destructive Green New Deal, and is willing to take the Country down with him? In any event, Trump continued, either reason is unacceptable. He has a DEATH WISH. The all-caps DEATH WISH message was sent out to his roughly four million followers on the Truth Social media platform, Trumps Twitter knock-off. Trumps threat came after McConnell voted along with Democratic senators in favor of a continuing resolution to fund the government, which passed in the Senate last week, and for indicating his support for a proposed bill to reform the Electoral Count Act. Trump concluded his DEATH WISH post with a racist and xenophobic attack on Elaine Chao, McConnells wife and Trumps former transportation secretary. He urged McConnell to immediately seek help and advise (sic) from his China loving wife, Coco Chow! Chao had resigned her cabinet post the day after Trumps January 6, 2021 fascist assault on the US Capitol. Trump threatens Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell on Truth Social on September 30. In an interview published by the New York Times the day after Trumps death threat, Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins, considered a moderate in the increasingly fascistic Republican Party, told the newspaper she recently had a rock thrown through a window in her home in Bangor, Maine. Collins said the smashing of the window was particularly concerning because it was on a secluded side of the house, which, she suggested, showed that the area had been studied and chosen. I wouldnt be surprised if a senator or House member were killed, Collins told the Times. What started with abusive phone calls is now translating into active threats of violence and real violence. In addition to Collins, the Times cited comments from Washington state Representative Pramila Jayapal, who herself was targeted by a fascist gunman outside her home earlier this year. Speaking of the lackadaisical attitude of the Capitol Police toward providing members of Congress with adequate security less than two years after Trumps failed coup, Jayapal told the Times that it took an enormous amount of pressure for me to feel like I was getting attention from Capitol Police. Following the attack on Congress, the Capitol Police recorded 9,625 threats against members of Congress in 2021, a ten-fold increase from 2016. In the first quarter of 2022, according to the Times, the Capitol Police had opened 1,820 cases of threats against Congress members. Despite the thousands of threats over the past two years, less than 100 people have been arrested, the Times reported. Trumps post on Friday marks the second time in as many months he has incited racist violence against Chao in response to words or actions by her husband. In August, after McConnell suggested that the previously forecast Republican take-over of the Senate might not pan out due to candidate quality on the Republican side, Trump called him a broken down hack. Trump demanded that the long-time Republican leader spend more money helping them [Republican senatorial candidates] get elected, and less time helping his crazy wife and family get rich on China! Chao was born on the island of Taiwan and emigrated to the US when she was eight years old. As in August, McConnell has not issued a statement in response to Trumps incitements. This continues a trend exhibited throughout Trumps presidency and following the coup in which mainstream and moderate Republicans, especially those in leadership positions, remain silent in the face of Trumps increasingly homicidal threats against his political enemies. At his rally Saturday night at the Macomb Community College Expo Center, located in Warren, Michigan, Trump delivered another Hitler-inspired speech while stumping for his endorsed candidates. Two of them, the Republican candidate for attorney general, Mathew DePerno, and the candidate for secretary of state, Kristina Karamo, participated in Trumps 2020 coup attempt. Karamo is a Christian fascist who rocketed to stardom in the Republican Party in November 2020 when she claimed on Fox News and as a witness in Rudy Giuliani-led efforts to overturn the popular vote in Michigan that a combination of illegal ballots and Dominion Voting Systems software had flipped the state from Trump to Biden. Muskegon County prosecutor DJ Hilson has yet to announce criminal charges against DePerno and eight other Republicans heavily involved in Trumps efforts to overturn the vote in Michigan. To avoid a conflict of interest, current Michigan attorney general Dana Nessel recommended a special prosecutor be appointed earlier this year to consider criminal charges against DePerno for, among other things, illegally accessing and tampering with voting machines. DePerno led Trumps efforts to exploit a quickly corrected human error in Antrim County, Michigan to justify declaring martial law and re-running the election at gunpoint. In addition to DePerno and Karamo, QAnon fascist and Georgia Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene spoke at Saturdays rally. Greene has published calls for the execution of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and been cited by the House of Representatives for stalking and threatening Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She has become a fixture at Trump Save America rallies around the country. At the Michigan rally, she claimed that communist Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the politically weaponized Department of Justice... set up a fake kidnapping plot which was a trial run for January 6, which she said was used to entrap MAGA. This was a reference to the plot by pro-Trump fascists to kidnap and kill Whitmer and storm the state Capitol in Lansing, which was broken up and exposed by federal and state authorities in October of 2020. The plot was indeed a trial run for the plot that was being hatched by Trump and his co-conspirators, including leaders of the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers, to storm the US Capitol and kidnap or kill officials in order to overturn the election in the event of a defeat for Trump. The far-right crowd, noticeably smaller than at previous Save America rallies, repeatedly chanted lock her up! in response to attacks on Whitmer and Hillary Clinton, which were leveled by virtually all the speakers. In his speech, Trump reiterated his call to institute the death penalty for drug dealers and human traffickers. Making clear his policy of refusing to accept any election that goes against him and his Republican acolytes, he said, I don't believe we'll ever have a fair election again. Trump cited Marjorie Taylor Greene as a witness as to the horrible conditions under which the January 6 political prisoners are being held. Ex-president Donald Trump delivers a fascist tirade in Warren, Michigan on October 1, 2022 He defended another one of his co-conspirators, Virginia Ginni Thomas, who, like Trump, Greene and the rest of the high-level Republicans who orchestrated the coup, remain free and uncharged more than 20 months after the fact. Thomas played a significant role in seeking to get Republican-led legislatures in key states that voted for Biden to overturn the popular vote and install fake slates of pro-Trump electors. Her husband, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, sought to back a coup with rubber stamp rulings in the nations highest court. On September 20, 2022, Ugandas health authorities declared an outbreak of Ebola after confirmation of the disease in a young 24-year-old man from Mubende village. He developed symptoms on September 11 consisting of high fevers, convulsions, bloody vomit and diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pains, and bloody eyes, according to a situation report published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on September 26. The incubation period for Ebola ranges from two to 21 days before leading to significant multiorgan failure. The virus spreads through contact with an infected persons blood or bodily fluids. Case fatality rates are incredibly high, and treatment remains supportive when the disease manifests. The primary zoonotic reservoir or intermediate host is not known. The consumption of bush meat or bite from an animal harboring the virus has been speculated to cause sporadic outbreaks. After seeking assistance at two different privately run clinics, the man from Mubende village was referred to a regional hospital on September 15, where he was placed in isolation for suspected viral hemorrhagic fever. A blood sample was collected two days later and sent to Ugandas Virus Research Institute. On September 19, the blood sample confirmed an Ebola infection with the Sudan virus genus of Ebolavirus. The young man passed on the same day. As of September 30, the number of Ebola infections has risen quickly to 54, with 35 cases confirmed and 19 listed as probable. The death toll has reached 25, with seven confirmed with Ebola infection and 18 probable infections. Additionally, the latest situation update from the WHO African region identified at least 427 contacts and 16 that were being treated for their infection. Two patients have made recoveries. After behind-the-scenes high-level meetings with the WHO, Ugandas health minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng confirmed during a press briefing Saturday that six medical workers were diagnosed with the Sudan Ebola virus, and two more were in dire condition. It is not clear if one of these in critical condition was Tanzanian physician Dr. Mohammed Ali, who tested positive on September 26 and died on Saturday, October 1, at a regional referral hospital in Fort Portal, about 190 miles west of the capital, Kampala. His was the second death of a health care worker after a midwife from St. Florence Clinic died of probable Ebola infection. Thus far, no cases have been detected in the densely populated capital of 1.68 million people in the city proper, with another five million in the neighboring districts situated on the north shore of Lake Victoria, Africas largest lake and an economic and food security lifeline for 30 million people. Kampala is one of Africas fastest-growing cities, with an annual growth rate of over 4 percent. The countrys poverty rate, the percent of the population living on less than US $5.50 per day, stands at 89 percent. Ugandas economy is sustained by agriculture. However, lacking the necessary technology and infrastructure and hampered by corruption, its economic growth has slowed since 2016 while debt continues to grow. It relies heavily on external investments, which lead to higher debt servicing. Poverty has been climbing in Uganda for over a decade. The present Ebola outbreak is situated in the communities of Mubende (epicenter in Madudu) sub-county, Kyegwegwa, Kassanda, and Kagadi district, spanning a radius of 75 miles along a busy highway that runs between Kampala and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC, formerly Zaire) to the west. Health officials fear the virus may have been spreading undetected since early August, threatening to circulate through the capital more broadly to other African countries and the rest of the world. In their risk assessment last week, the WHO noted, The outbreak was detected among individuals living around an active gold mine. Mobility among traders of this commodity is likely to be high, and the declaration of the outbreak may cause some miners already incubating the disease to flee. The currently affected Mubende district has no international borders. Nevertheless, the risk of international spread cannot be ruled out due to the active cross-border population movement. Figure 1: Map of confirmed and suspected cases of Ebola disease caused by Sudan virus, by district, Uganda (as of September 25, 2022). Source World Health Organization. Former senior military officer and current president of Uganda since 1986, 78-year-old Yoweri Museveni, made a televised statement on September 29 saying that there would be no restrictions on moving and gatherings. He said, I want to reassure all Ugandans and all residents that the government will quickly gain control of this outbreak as we have done before. Therefore, there is no need for anxiety, panic, restriction of movement, or unnecessary closure of public places like schools, markets, and places of worship as of now. However, these assurances appear entirely unwarranted, as indicated by a commentary published in Fortune by Aceng, titled, Uganda urgently needs help to stop the Ebola outbreak in its tracks. Aceng wrote, Shockingly, Uganda is still isolated in the struggle to address this new threat despite the world having just endured the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic as a single global health security problem. There has been an increased focus on the need for pandemic preparedness, resilient health systems, and a well-protected workforce to respond successfully to threats. However, the global response is not to the level of the threat we know Ebola to be to Uganda and the rest of the world. She added, We urgently need more well-trained, well-equipped, and well-protected health workers who can safely help respond to stop this outbreak in its track. Besides the threat posed by COVID-19 and Ebola, she noted recent upsurges in malaria in the North and East of Uganda, tuberculosis, HIV, non-communicable diseases, and traumas impacting the population's well-being. The present Ebola outbreak in Uganda is caused by the Sudan virus, one of four species in the Ebolavirus genus known to cause human disease. The clinical illness it causes is indistinguishable from the Zaire Ebola genus, but is genetically distant enough that the current vaccine available for the Zaire genus, Ervebo (manufactured by Merck), is ineffective against the Sudan virus. Nancy Sullivan, head of biodefense research at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious diseases (NIAID), said of the two Ebola viruses, [They] are not variants, and theyre not strainstheyre different viruses. Both viruses were first discovered in their respective geographic locations in 1976. However, the more familiar Zaire Ebola virus has garnered the lions share of attention, especially during the Ebola epidemic in West Africa between 2014 to 2016 that killed 11,325 people (38 percent of cases were fatal) and then in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2018, in which 2,280 people died from Ebola infections. The name for the virus was given from the Ebola River in DRC, where it was first described. Figure 2 Outbreaks of Ebola disease in sub-Saharan Africa. Source Lancet Ebola Virus Disease 2019, authors Professor Denis Malvy and colleagues. Uganda has experienced several outbreaks of Ebola viruses. The first was from October 2000 to January 2001 with the Sudan virus, in which 224 of 425 cases resulted in fatalities, a byproduct of people attending funerals of cases and lack of adequate personal protective equipment by attendants. Eight years later, a smaller outbreak occurred with the Bundibugyo Ebola virus, the first time it was ever identified, killing 37 of 149 cases. In 2012, two outbreaks occurred with the Sudan virus. One in June infected 11 people, while another in November infected six. Most recently, in 2019, five people died from Ebola infections in Uganda. As the WHO scrambles to build Ebola Treatment Units in the affected regions, it calls for international donors to contribute $18 million to contain the outbreak for the next three months. Dr. Yonas Tegegn Woldermariam, Ugandas WHO representative, said even this amount might not cover all the necessary costs. He told reporters, If we go into the preparedness, we are talking, even for the three months, three times or four times that amount. Plus, there are things that we take for granted, assuming the system will provide them. Those are additional costs like transportation, like fuel, like human resources, which we have to consider also to fund as we go ahead. Meanwhile, international health agencies working with pharmaceuticals have potentially identified two candidate vaccinesone from GlaxoSmithKline, which donated the license to the Sabin Vaccine Institute in 2019 (40,000 doses available), and the other being developed by scientists at the University of Oxfords Jenner Institute (71 doses available, with Serum Institute of India working to produce 20,000 doses)enough in development to begin emergency clinical trials to address the evolving crisis. Ana Maria Henao-Restrepo, a WHO vaccine specialist involved in coordinating and organizing discussions between the Ugandan government, pharmaceuticals, and international stakeholders, said, We are moving really fast this time, and people are really willing to work to get these vaccines on the ground. We are doing everything that you are supposed to do when you want to get a trial started in a week or two, [at] maximum. After nearly three years of the COVID-19 pandemic, and under conditions in which nearly every world government is imposing a forever COVID policy of unending waves of mass infection, death and debilitation, world capitalism is entirely unprepared for a massive outbreak of Ebola. The danger exists that the current outbreak in Uganda could spread internationally, as was allowed with monkeypox. To prevent this from happening and to put an end to the scourge of myriad infectious diseases, the international working class must take control of the economy and rebuild society on socialist foundations, which would entail a vast expansion of public health resources and universal health care in every country. Based on the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien, Rings of Power began its first season on Amazon Prime in September. The release of the fantasy series The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, the most expensive television series in history, was unveiled with great fanfare. Now one rather wishes that, like the One Ring which brought so much misfortune in the books, it had never been created in the first place. The Lord of the RingsThe Rings of Power The series sets out to explore the Second Age of Middle-Earth, the fantasy world written by J.R.R. Tolkien (1892-1973) inhabited by Men, Elves, Dwarves, and small humanoids known as Hobbits. There are several plotlines which revolve around the forging of magical rings, the rise and fall of the Kingdom of Numenor and the Last Alliance of Elves and Men. This reviewer was lucky enough to be a teen witness to the popular The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy (2001-2003) directed by Peter Jackson, which retells the events of Tolkiens Third Age of Middle-Earth and the destruction of the cursed One Ring. I say teen because it was derided by Tolkiens late son, Christopher, at the time as, an action movie for young people aged 15 to 25. That it was also an evisceration of the book became plain later upon reading, but one was willing to forgive much. Fast forward 20 years and Rings of Power is also action-packed, a literary eviscerationbut no age group seems inclined to defend it this time around. On the contrary, many people are genuinely upset and outraged. Not only is it stunningly boring, but it suffers from sophomoric writing, one-dimensional characters, and contrived plot points. At the time of this writing, a leading review site reveals an audience score of 38 percent, with professional critics giving it 84 percent. A veritable cottage industry has spawned on the free video sharing website YouTube, with content creators hate watching or mocking the show. Amazon has felt compelled to delete thousands of negative reviews on its streaming platform Amazon Prime, as well as issue a formal statement opposing the relentless racism directed to its castmates of color. The suggestion that complaints are predominantly racist is belied by the fact that House of the Dragon, another racially diverse fantasy series released at the same time on HBO, has not received any such backlash. The series has undoubtedly touched a nerve, which says more about the present state of filmmaking and society than anything Tolkien is responsible for. The fact that it was produced by the company owned by Jeff Bezos, the worlds second-richest person, generates schadenfreude on the part of some, but for the most part there is a sense of disappointment and frustration. Young people and those who recall the Jackson Trilogy now navigate a world far more fraught with instability and anxiety. World leaders are engaged in nuclear brinksmanship, there are historic levels of social inequality, insecure work and so on. Art and particularly film are no doubt seen as a lifeline. Tolkien wrote sophisticated fantasy literature replete with poems, songs, thousands of years of history and even entire languages. His writing was not without limitations, however, and suffused with elegies to the past. Growing up in England in the early 20th century, the experience of two world wars weighed heavily upon him, and he steered into Luddite conceptions that the bloody conflicts were caused by the industrialisation of society rather than the explosive contradictions of capitalism. At any rate, the sensitivity and sophistication in his work is altogether absent from Rings of Power. The Lord of the RingsThe Rings of Power (2022) Tolkiens elves, written as ethereal and dignified beings endowed with the burden of immortality, are portrayed instead as shallow, individualist, and heartless. The main character of the series is the elf Galadriel, who rather than being wise and perceptive as she is portrayed in the books, has been reduced to an action hero pursuing the Dark Lord Sauron. Despite being thousands of years old, she is unempathetic, petulant and in dire need of socialisation. Elrond is rewritten as a grasping careerist and loyal bureaucrat, who schemes at the behest of his King to dissuade his friend Galadriel from any pursuit of Sauron and his remaining orcs. Its hard to see what is right, when friendship and duty are mingled, he confides to the King. He succeeds, however, and his duplicity is rewarded with promotion as executive assistant to Celebrimbor, who must build a forge, more powerful than any ever built, with the somewhat limiting caveat of completing it before spring. In order to meet deadline, Elrond proceeds to wheedle an estranged friend, the dwarf prince Durin, into a building contract. The elf soldier, Arondir, is posted to an elven military occupation over the land of men, which has been in place for a thousand years. The blood of Morgoth still darkens their veins, one superior contemptuously remarks. The human villagers look oppressed, unhealthy, and decidedly unhappy. One day, our true king will return, threatens one, and hell pry us right out from under your pointy boots. We are meant to invest in Arondir as he pursues a taboo love interest with one of the villagers, Bronwyn. Youre the only kind touch Ive known in all my days of this land, he whispers. After all we have seen, we are inclined to believe him. Not even the loveable hobbits are safe, who come off as mawkish and the most sinister of all. They supposedly have each other and no one gets left behind, until they need to migrate apparently, in which case all bets are off, particularly for the disabled. Permeating the whole work is the unhealthy obsession of identity politics peculiar to the upper middle class. One feels that, above all, we are meant to be impressed with the number of lead female characters, black elves, dwarves and hobbits. In a way, one could say that it is the best television series money can buy under the present circumstances. Projected to be the most expensive in history, its cost projections surpass $1 billion ($462 million on the first season alone). The rights were sold by the Tolkien estate for $250 million prior to any written script. Following the success of Game of Thrones, the highly competitive and international streaming video industry has been on the hunt for the next epic franchise. Bezos Amazon Prime, with 200 million members, is looking to unseat Netflixs lead of 220 million. Disney+ stalks closely behind with 152 million. HBOs House of the Dragon is the prequel to Game of Thrones, though its membership base is 76.8 million. Rings of Power is Amazons corporate flagship in this respect, and it is too big to sink. What better way to avoid such a fate than to appeal to the lowest common denominator? This goes some way to explaining its dumbed-down, homogenised character, familiar to other recent franchises such as Star Wars and the Wheel of Time, all of which are regarded in corporate speak as valuable IP (Intellectual Property). Whilst one can easily turn away from viewing the five seasons, one does get the dreadful sense that major film studios on the whole have reached new standards of profit making, in which artistically meaningful, challenging or even educational work comes to wither and die, no matter the source material. Behind much of the shows criticism is a healthy sentiment of protest against this stultifying state of affairs, as well as the cynical use of identity politics which serves to legitimise or distract from it. Rings of Power may attract more Prime memberships and contribute to Bezos flywheel strategy of hooking consumers on to its commerce websites, but thats all that can be said for it, and perhaps all it was meant to do in the first place. Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre has yet to be accused of criminal misconduct in connection with the diversion of federal welfare funds for pet projects and Favres own pocket. But hes apparently concerned about the manner in which the dominoes are falling. According to Mike Allen of Axios.com, Favre has hired attorney Eric Herschmann to serve as lead counsel for his defense team. A person whose videotaped testimony periodically has appeared during the hearings of the United States House Select Committee on the January 6 Attack, Herchmann formerly served as a White House lawyer for Donald Trump. I only agreed to represent Brett Favre after I did my independent due diligence and was convinced that he did nothing wrong, Herschmann said, via Allen. Brett enthusiastically tried to help his alma mater, a public university, that needed and wanted his help. Cmon, Eric. Defense lawyers routinely represent people who are or may be factually guilty, hopeful that they can help their clients avoid being found legally guilty. Also, defense lawyers work by the hour. Its always better to work for someone with the money to pay the invoices, regardless of innocence or guilt. To be clear, Brett had no idea that welfare funds were being used or that others were involved in illegal conduct, Herschmann said. That declaration doesnt mesh with text messages that create the impression Favre kept pushing for welfare funding even after being told by former Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant that there were legality concerns regarding the money. Brett Favre hires former White House lawyer to handle welfare-fund fiasco originally appeared on Pro Football Talk Not since October 1962, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, has the world come so close to nuclear war as today. It is not necessary to glorify the Stalinist leader Nikita Khrushchev, let alone the imperialist president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, to recognize that there is a glaring difference between the reaction to that crisis and the one gripping the world today. In a recently published book on the Cuban Missile Crisis, Nuclear Folly, historian Serhii Plokhy writes that, despite enormous miscalculations and misjudgments on both sides, The crisis did not develop into a shooting war because Kennedy and Khrushchev both feared nuclear weapons and dreaded the very idea of their use. Plokhy adds that Kennedy and Khrushchev did not step into the traps so masterfully created by themselves because they did not believe they could win a nuclear war, nor were they prepared to pay a price for such a victory. It is hard to imagine what the outcome of the Cuban crisis might have been if the two leaders had a more cavalier attitude toward the use of nuclear arms. In the midst of a new global nuclear crisis, the United States/NATO and Russia seem to be proceeding in a manner aimed at demonstrating what this unimaginable outcome would actually be. There is a staggering indifference to the consequences of nuclear war. Having launched the invasion of Ukraine with the naive and desperate assumption that he could compel his Western partners to negotiate, Russian President Vladimir Putin confronts the staggering failure of his bankrupt and reactionary strategy in Ukraine. The Russian military has suffered a series of defeats in recent weeks, including the debacle in Kharkiv followed by further advances of the Ukrainian military into territory that Russia now claims as its own. Russia was goaded by the United States into a war for which it was entirely unprepared, underestimating the agenda of the United States and NATO. In the wake of humiliating defeats and facing internal crisis and recriminations within the Russian oligarchy, the Putin regime is responding with unmistakable threats to use nuclear weapons. On the other hand, the United States and NATO, determined to press their advantage in pursuit of their global geopolitical objectives, are making statements that they will not be deterred by the threat of nuclear war. In American newspapers and on television programs, there is open discussion about the possibility of nuclear war. The New York Times wrote on Sunday: Officials in Washington are gaming out scenarios should President Vladimir V. Putin decide to use a tactical nuclear weapon to make up for the failings of Russian troops in Ukraine A range of officials suggested that if Russia detonated a tactical nuclear weapon on Ukrainian soil, the options included some kind of military response. Asked by ABCs Face the Nation what the United States would do if Russia used a nuclear weapon, former CIA Director David Petraeus replied, We would respond by leading a NATO, a collective effort, that would take out every Russian conventional force that we can see and identify on the battlefield in Ukraine and also in Crimea and every ship in the Black Sea. General Petraeus, who led US forces in genocidal rampages in Iraq and Afghanistan, seems to believe that the United States and NATO can wipe out Russian military forces, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths, without retaliation. One must be borderline insane not to understand that such an attack by NATO on the Russian military forces would provoke a thermonuclear response by the Kremlin that would result in the utter destruction, with a horrific loss of life, of every major capital in Western Europe and North America. The level of recklessness was summed up by an unnamed European official quoted in the Washington Post in an article headlined, Russias annexation puts world two or three steps away from nuclear war: No one knows what Putin will decide to do. But hes totally in a corner, hes crazy and for him there is no way out. The only way out for him is total victory or total defeat and we are working on the latter one. We need Ukraine to win and so we are working to prevent worst case scenarios by helping Ukraine win. Have the Dr. Strangeloves who are making these statements even thought through the implications of their own policies? They are insisting that, whatever the consequences, the US and NATO powers must pursue a course that leads to the total defeat of Russia. Far from preventing the worst case scenario, their words and actions are fueling the fire that is leading to a worst case outcome. On the edge of the abyss, the position of the imperialist powers is: Forward until complete victory. As always, the imperialist warmongers who are denouncing Putins threats to use nuclear weapons as an unprecedented breach of Great Power morality exhibit an astonishing forgetfulness about their own past actions. But it is a matter of historical fact that the United States has not only used nuclear weapons (against the defenseless populations of Hiroshima and Nagasaki), but it and other imperialist powers came close to using nuclear weapons when threatened with military defeat. In 1950, General Douglas MacArthur sought authorization to use as many as 30 atomic bombs against Chinese troops crossing the border into Korea. In 1954, France pleaded with US President Eisenhower to use nuclear bombs to save its encircled troops at Dien Bien Phu. In 1962, Kennedy himself threatened to use nuclear weapons during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1973, Israel, facing defeat during the initial days of the Yom Kippur War, came close to using nuclear weapons against Egypt. Desperation and recklessness may describe the moods gripping Washington and Moscow, but not their source. A political explanation must be found for this behavior. The desperation of the Putin regime arises from the fact that it is confronted with the consequences of the dissolution of the USSR, a historic betrayal that set into motion all the subsequent socioeconomic and political disasters. In dissolving the Soviet Union, the Stalinist bureaucracy deluded itself into believing that Lenins analysis of imperialism was nothing more than a Marxian myth. But this myth has proven to be true. Thirty years after the collapse of the USSR, Russia is confronted with a war by the imperialist powers aimed at dismembering it. Despite the disasters created by the invasions of Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Syria, the American ruling class believes that through war it can somehow stave off the growth of working-class opposition that haunts them. Amidst all of this, there is no frank statement of the implications of the likely consequences of nuclear war. Politicians, high-ranking military personnel, and the media are talking nonchalantly about an event that could lead to the annihilation of hundreds of millions, even billions, of people. What accounts for the difference between the response to the Cuban Missile Crisis and the situation today? Ultimately, the fact that the Cuban Missile Crisis did not lead to nuclear war can be attributed to the character of the political period. In the 1960s American imperialism was passing through the era of the postwar capitalist boom. The Soviet Union, encompassing one-sixth of the worlds land mass, was in an immeasurably stronger position than the desperate and encircled Russian state. Putins national chauvinism and xenophobia offer no alternative to the crisis created by US imperialism. Putin, speaking for a parasitic Russian oligarchy, fears the Russian working class even more than he does the US and the West. His response to the disaster created by the dissolution of the USSR blends the medieval obscurantism of Tsarist Russia with the counterrevolutionary nationalist politics of Stalinism. No faith can be placed on the reasonableness of the American or Russian oligarchies. The pandemic has already revealed the utter indifference to human life, both of the Kremlin regime, which has accepted the death of 400,000 people in Russia, and the imperialist ruling class in the US and Europe, whose herd immunity policies have led to millions of deaths worldwide. The reckless actions of governments that are leading the world to disaster must be countered by a global mass anti-war movement of the working class and youth. The working class must demand the immediate end to this reactionary war. It is necessary to unify the struggle by workers in defense of their social and democratic rights with the struggle against war. The building of a new anti-war movement must be based on the perspective of international socialism, rejecting all forms of nationalism and xenophobia and fighting for the unity of workers in every country. Nuwan Bopage, a key leader of the Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) in Sri Lanka, addressed the ongoing UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session in Geneva on September 12. Bopage, representing the FSP-controlled Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF), took part to raise human rights violations in Sri Lanka under the government of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. The FSP jubilantly reported comrade Bopages intervention on its website. Nuhan Bopage addressing UNHRC The FSP intervention is tail-ending Washingtons use of Sri Lankan human rights violations as a pretext to pressure Colombo to line up with its strategic confrontation with China. The UNHRC session is discussing its High Commissioners report on Sri Lanka and a resolution presented by several countries led by the US and UK. This resolution proposes an investigation into Sri Lankas war crimes and economic crimes and is scheduled to be put to the vote on October 6. The FSP has not criticised the resolution at any time or pointed to its underlying purpose. The widely-despised Wickremesinghe was appointed as acting President by former President Gotabhaya Rajapakse as he fled the country on July 13 after huge mass protests demanding his resignation. Wickremesinghe was then installed as President by an anti-democratic vote of the discredited parliament on July 21. Wickremesinghe immediately intensified the crackdown on anti-government protesters ordering police and the military to violently evict those who had occupied the presidential secretariat. Police attacks were also unleashed on IUSF-organised protests in August. On August 22, Wickremesinghe imposed 90-day detention orders on a IUSF convener and two other activists under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). The government is preparing to crush the widespread opposition of workers and rural masses to skyrocketing prices and shortages of essentials including fuel, food and medicines. It has signed a loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that will only intensify the acute social crisis facing millions. The FSP opposes the independent political mobilisation of the working class against the repression of the Wickremesinghe regime and the IMF austerity agenda. Instead, it has turned to the UNHRC, giving tacit support to Washingtons cynical human rights campaign and is cementing an alliance with Sri Lankas opposition parties that all support the IMFs program. In his brief address to the UNHRC, Bopage cited the Colombo governments lack of accountability for war crimes, economic crimes and other human rights violations. To investigate and assure human rights in the country, he said the council should be strengthening the existing measures and adopting new initiatives. The FSP is deliberately covering up for the US, which is exploiting the UNHRC to advance its geostrategic interests and is also directly responsible for numerous bloody war crimes. There is no question that successive Sri Lankan governments are responsible for war crimes and gross abuses of democratic rights during Colombos 26-year communal war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) that ended in May 2009. During the final weeks of the war, then President Mahinda Rajapakse and his brother Gotabhaya Rajapakse, who was defence secretary, presided over the killing of at least 40,000 Tamil civilians, according to UN estimates, and the disappearance of hundreds more. After the war, Washington sponsored several resolutions to pressure Mahinda Rajapakse to break relations with Beijing. Washington was deeply hostile to his governments ties with and dependence on funds and arms from China and wanted to bring Sri Lanka under the US strategic sway. Failing these efforts, Washington sponsored a regime-change operation in 2015 with the support of Wickremesinghe and former President Chandrika Kumaratunga to oust Mahinda and install Maithripala Sirisena as president. The Sirisena-Wickremesinghe regime shifted the Sri Lankan foreign policy markedly towards Washington. After Gotabhaya Rajapakse came to power in 2019, the US and UK sponsored another tough resolution on Sri Lanka that was passed in March last year. This resolution is currently being discussing in the UNHRC. Though Rajapakse is no longer in power, the US is seeking to block any return of the Rajapakses. Although the pro-US Wickremesinghe is president, he depends on Rajapakses partythe Sri Lanka Podujana Peramunafor political survival. The FSP leaders were members of the Sinhala chauvinist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) which fully backed the communal war. As the JVP became widely discredited among workers and particularly youth, they broke away and formed the FSP in 2012. Despite its socialistic phrase mongering, the FSP backed the US engineered regime-change operation in 2015 that brought to power Sirisena, who was complicit in all the war crimes of the Rajapakse government. The FSP turn to the UNHRC is significant. It underlines this partys further rightward shift into the Colombo political establishment in response to the sharp upsurge of working class struggles in Sri Lanka and internationally. Since April millions of workers and poor have been involved in huge protests and strikes in response to the social devastation produced by the global capitalist crisis. Like the ruling class, the trade unions and various pseudo-left groups were terrified by this popular uprising. FSP collaborated closely with the trade union fronts to divert this mass opposition into one-day general strikes in April and May and to subordinate it to the demand for an interim capitalist regime that was also being pushed by the opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and JVP. The JVP and FSP unions were part of these trade union fronts. By blocking any independent movement of the working class against the Rajapakse regime, the FSP and the trade unions paved the way for Wickremesinghe to come to power. Now the FSP is lining up with the opposition parties to mount a phony campaign to defend democratic rights. In August, the FSP took part in a seminar called by the Trade Unions and Mass Movement (TUMO). The FSP trade unions are part of TUMO. Among the invitees to the event were the representatives of the imperialist powers including the UK, Canada and Australia as well as of the opposition partiesthe SJB, JVP, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress and Tamil National Alliance. Meeting of joint trade unions and mass organisations. [Photo: WSWS] FSP Education Secretary Pubudu Jayagoda voiced the partys full support to this reactionary line-up, declaring: The FSP promises that we will give our maximum support to bring all forces against this repression into a common platform. On September 16, the FSP participated in an event organised by the IUSF to which the SJB and JVP were invited. The recently-formed Uttara Lanka Sabhagaya also attended. This outfit includes Sinhala chauvinist groups led by Wimal Weerawansa and Udaya Gammanpila who were ministers of the former Rajapakse regime. SJB chairman and MP, General Sarath Fonseka, addressed the meeting supposedly in a personal capacity. Fonseka was Army Commander during the final years of the war, overseeing the brutal offensives in the last months that killed tens of thousands of civilians. Jubilant about the gathering, he praised the IUSF and the FSP and called on professionals and businessmen to build the movement. There are about 90 percent in the police are with us. In the military 98 percent are with us, he declared. Such are the rightwing forces being embraced by the FSP. FSP leader Pubudu Jayagoda declared: New leaders are in the making. All are uniting. This platform is the example. All these political parties, trade unions and mass organisations have united. He added: This mass force will not only secure the release of student leaders but a mass power will be built to send this anti-people, anti-social lot to the prison. The FSP claims to be building a mass movement to oust the repressive Wickremesinghe regime. In reality, it is promoting capitalist parties that have a similar record of repression and austerity. Both the SJB and JVP are committed to the IMFs austerity agenda. A government of these parties would be just as ruthless as Wickremesinghe in attacking the democratic and social rights of working people. This fake left group represents upper middle class sections of society. Its hostility to mobilise the working class on socialist policies flows from its commitment to the profit system. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) urges workers and youth to reject the FSPs so-called mass movement. It is a political trap to corral working people behind the political establishment that only opens the door for dictatorial rule.The working class can only defend its democratic and social rights by uniting with the international working class and fighting for socialism. The working class should take matters into its own hands. The SEP calls on workers to form action committees, independent of trade unions and all capitalist parties and their hangers on, in every workplace, plantation and neighbourhood. We call upon the rural masses, who are facing similar attacks on their living conditions, to build action committees and to rally in this struggle. The attacks on democratic and social rights are rooted in the crisis of capitalism. That is why the SEP calls on workers and youth to fight for socialist policies as the only answer to defend these rightsincluding the nationalisation of the banks, large companies and plantations under workers democratic control, and the repudiation of all foreign debts. Against the reactionary political manoeuvres of the ruling class, the SEP has initiated a campaign for a Democratic and Socialist Congress of Workers and Rural Masses. The SEP has proposed this congress, based on democratically elected delegates from action committees, to develop the fight for socialist policies to address the pressing needs of the masses and take forward struggle for a workers and peasants government as part of the struggle for socialism internationally. We urge workers and youth to join the SEP to fight for this revolutionary program. Take up the fight for rank-and-file control! Join the Railroad Workers Rank-and-File Committee by sending an email to railwrfc@gmail.com, texting (314) 529-1064 or filling out the form at the bottom of this page. A CSX train from Evansville, Indiana, loaded with coal passing through Columbia, South Carolina, on February 1, 2019. CC BY 2.0] [Photo by Reginald McDowell In an open letter to railroaders Friday, SMART-TD union President Jeremy Ferguson attempted to justify the unions decision to avoid a national rail strike and force through a sellout tentative agreement brokered by the Biden administration. The letter is the latest in a series of increasingly desperate statements from top rail union officials, which alternate between defensiveness and threats, indicating that they are afraid of the growing rank-and-file opposition. The same day, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) issued a separate statement shifting blame for the TA from themselves onto Congress. SMART-TD President Fergusons statement is dripping with hypocrisy. Titled Ultimately, decision about tentative agreement is in members hands, in reality, it is devoted to proving the opposite, that the final decision lies in the hands of Congress and the railroads. Most of the letter is devoted to a self-serving account of the last several months of negotiations, in which Ferguson claims the unions hands were tied by both the refusal of the carriers to bargain in good faith and the threat of congressional intervention to block a strike. Ferguson briefly acknowledges the widespread anger among the workers, who are determined to strike against brutal levels of exploitation. But then he adds: In the face of all this, why did we not strike? It is not due to the RLA, but rather because of the commerce clause contained within the Constitution of the United States of America. The fact is, Congress would not risk any more harm to the supply chain than what the railroads have already committed since the advent of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR). We were then faced with an ugly reality. We could refuse to negotiate any further and initiate the strike procedures, which, in turn, would have been blocked by Congress with the PEB imposed upon us, or we could come to a tentative agreement that then gives you a voice in these proceedings through a direct up or down vote. This is an argument with sweeping implications. For years, the rail unions have conveniently justified one sellout after another by citing the anti-worker Railway Labor Act, which sharply restricts workers ability to strike. Now that the provisions of the RLA have finally been exhausted, Ferguson constructs a new, far broader argument that the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, which empowers Congress To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes, overrides workers constitutional right to strike, which is protected via freedom of speech and freedom of association in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights. If this were the case, it would mean that not only railroaders but all workers in the United States do not have the right to strike. Ferguson is arguing that the United States, since the ratification of the Constitution in 1788, is a de facto dictatorship in which workers rights can simply be ignored when convenient on the grounds of the good of the economy. This is far more revealing about the mindset of a well-heeled union bureaucrat than that of the framers of the Constitution. Ferguson may not remember, but the United States was founded in a revolution against the tyranny of the British Crown in which the colonists set up new, alternative institutions, beginning with the Committees of Correspondence and culminating in the Continental Congress and the revolution itself. The Declaration of Independence, one of the most powerful revolutionary documents in history, justified the revolution by declaring, But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. Fergusons own position is more comparable to King George than to the American revolutionaries. He and the rest of the union officials are facing their own rebellion by railroads workers, who have formed the Railroad Workers Rank-and-File Committee to challenge the bureaucratic dictatorship and put workers in control. Fergusons interpretation of the Constitution is the same as that of Wall Street and the railroads. Indeed, the recognition of the legal right to strike was only won by workers in the course of decades of bitter struggles against both the corporations and against the corporate-controlled government. But after earlier generations shed their blood to defend and uphold this basic right, Ferguson flippantly casts it aside in the course of a few sentences and defends congressional intervention against a strike as legally legitimate. This is a devastating self-exposure. If the entire political system is rigged against workers, then why have the unions incessantly focused workers attention on appeals to the political establishment and the Democratic Party? Why the endless promotion of the RLA, to the point that Ferguson himself called on Biden to appoint the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) whose recommendations formed the basis for the current sellout contract? Ferguson only exposes himself as an enforcer of a management dictatorship. Ferguson adds, During mediation, the political climate became more influential, as the elected representatives who would eventually have oversight of our dispute were known to be more labor friendly. In reality, the political climate, by which he presumably means the coming into office of the Biden administration, is not more labor friendly but more bureaucracy friendly. Biden vastly prefers to use the services of unions to enforce de facto strike injunctions than to risk a direct confrontation with the working class, which has unpredictable, explosive consequences. Indeed, the unions have even served as the primary messengers for threats of congressional injunctions, allowing Nancy Pelosi and her Republican counterparts to remain largely silent. As far as the bureaucracy is concerned, workers only have the right to vote the way they and Congress want them to. Fergusons letter comes only two days after the IBEW passed the railroad electricians contract in a vote marked by massive irregularities, including countless cases where workers did not receive ballots. The day before, the International Association of Machinists announced a new contract nearly identical to the one which workers already voted by 60 percent to reject earlier this month and unilaterally extended the strike deadline to early December. The same methods are in store for the other crafts. As for SMART-TD, it and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen are rumored in the press to be considering using binding arbitration in order to override a no vote. Workers have responded with widespread anger and derision on social media. Responding to his reference to the threat of congressional intervention, one worker commented, As if we dont remember how close we got, as if we dont remember realize the PEB is the TA, as if we dont realize that they are treating us like we are stupid. F*** this guy. He added incredulously, Why do they keep agreeing to a no-strike clause if Congress and the Constitution is preventing us from striking? His statement pissed me off, another worker said. Sounds like something a politician would say. A third worker agreed, adding, Lots of soothing words but basically, we think youre doing a great job but youre our b****es. Another worker said, This guy seems focused on legal striking. He forgets that the nature of striking doesnt give a s*** about legality. Another worker, responding to the BLET statement released the same day, wrote: [BLET official] Mark Kenny hasnt run a train in 20 years? Somehow earns $200,000+ a year and scored a seeming lifetime appointment. Time for big name unions to go. [This is the] last railroad negotiation the BLET will ever be a part of. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) congress, due to start on October 16, takes place as China confronts mounting crises on all fronts. Internally, the economy has been slowing drastically, leading to rising unemployment, particularly among young people, and sharp social tensions. Externally, the US is intensifying its aggressive confrontation with China on all frontsdiplomatic, economic and military. Soldiers wearing masks march down the steps of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Monday, Sept. 26, 2022. China's long-ruling Communist Party has set October 16 for its 20th party congress, at which leader Xi Jinping is expected to be given a third five-year term. [AP Photo/Ng Han Guan] The CCP congress, which occurs every five years, will be one of crisis. It is expected to break from past practice and install Xi Jinping for a third term as the partys general secretary and thus the countrys president. Xi foreshadowed the change when in 2018 the National Peoples Congress amended the countrys constitution to remove the previous two-term limit on the presidency and vice-presidency that had been in place for three decades. The US and Western media is rife with speculation about the CCPs internal machinations and whether or not Xi will be reinstalled. In an article last week entitled, China becomes hothouse of intrigue ahead of crucial Communist party congress, the Guardian referred to rumours of a military coup that were trending on social media, before all but dismissing them as unfounded. It appears that the rumour was based on nothing more than large numbers of flight cancellations and unsourced videos of military vehicles. The Guardian, along with other media, noted the convictions last month of top-level Chinese officials on corruption charges, describing it as one of the biggest Chinese political purges in years. Among those jailed were former vice-minister of public security Sun Lijun, ex-justice minister Fu Zhenghua, and former provincial police chiefs of Shanghai, Chongqing and Shanxi. Those convicted were accused of being part of a clique that was disloyal to Xi. The Indian-based Observer Research Foundation pointed out that Sun and Fu were significant figures in Chinas highly-sensitive security establishment. Fu had been closely involved in Xis anti-corruption campaign, which Xi had used to bring down key political rivals. Fu was instrumental in the investigation into Zhou Yongkang, formerly the countrys security chief and member of the partys top Politburo Standing Committee, who was convicted of corruption in 2015. From top to bottom, the CCP apparatus is riddled with corruption, which has massively expanded as the regime presided over the restoration of capitalism from 1978, the plunder of state-owned enterprises and the dominance of the market over every aspect of the economy. But corruption charges against top officials are invariably the means by which factional disputes are settled behind closed doors. Prior to Xis installation as general secretary in 2012, Bo Xilai, Chongqing party secretary and potential rival for the post, was detained and convicted of corruption charges. The media focus on the CCPs internal party tensions clearly reflects Washingtons ambitions to exploit any divisions within the Chinese regime to weaken and fracture China, which it regards as the chief threat to US global dominance. The CCP congress is being held amid the mounting danger of world war. Even as the Biden administration has recklessly ramped up the US-NATO war against Russia, bringing the world to the brink of nuclear war, it also has dramatically escalated tensions with China over Taiwan. Beijing is acutely aware that China could be embroiled in the expanding US-led war in Ukraine and that Washingtons war aims involve not only the weakening and subordination of Russia, but China as well. Despite intense international pressure, Beijing has not condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Xis only international travel since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic was to attend last months two-day summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Uzbekistan. He met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he called an old friend, and declared that China would work with Russia to inject stability and positive energy into a world rocked by chaos. Putin indirectly acknowledged Beijings fears of an escalating war. We highly value the balanced position of our Chinese friends when it comes to the Ukraine crisis, Putin said. We understand your questions and concern about this. The Biden administration has not only intensified the US military build-up and provocations against China in the Indo-Pacific region, but maintained the extensive trade sanctions and bans imposed on China by the Trump White House. Amid deepening global financial and economic instability, the punitive trade measures have been a contributing factor to the dramatic slowing of the Chinese economy. The latest World Bank forecast said the Chinese economy would grow by just 2.8 percent in 2022, well below Chinas official target of 5.5 percent. Amid mounting debt, the economy is also plagued by financial instability, particularly in the property sector where huge corporations such as Evergrande face bankruptcy. The CCPs restoration of capitalism was accompanied by the claim that it would bring prosperity that would ensure the well-being of all. A growth rate of 8 percent was held up as the benchmark for achieving low levels of unemployment and social stability. The official unemployment rate, which only covers urban areas, was down marginally to 5.4 percent in July, but the youth jobless rate hit a record of 19.9 percent. The domestic and geopolitical crises facing China are undoubtedly fuelling tensions within the CCP apparatus. Some have criticised Xi, saying he should have been more conciliatory toward the US and further opened up the Chinese economy to foreign investment. On social media, however, stridently nationalist voices have argued for militarist responses. The government is also under mounting pressure internationally and from sections of business and the middle classes, on which the CCP has increasingly rested, to ease COVID restrictions that have successfully prevented millions of deaths. However, amid the escalating tensions, Xi has apparently strengthened his grip on power and taken over the oversight of all areas of government policy. This includes the economy, which was in the past largely the province of the premier. Li Keqiang, who was installed as premier along with Xi and was identified with World Bank plans for further pro-market restructuring, has been largely sidelined. He is expected to be dropped from the top leadership at the upcoming congress. Xi, however, is now routinely referred to as the core of the government and the party. He may well be accorded new accolades and titles at the congress. However, Xis seemingly unchallengeable position stems not from any inherent strength of Xi as an individual or of the CCP as a whole. Rather, in conditions of acute class tensions, he has been elevated to preside over the competing factions, mediate disputes and prevent the divisions from blowing the party and government apart. In a perspective in 2018 entitled Xi Jinpings power grab: Bonapartism with Chinese characteristics, the WSWS explained: Xis emergence as Chinas political strongman is not a function of his personal characteristics, but rather is a reflection above all of the extreme social tensions wracking the country. Confronting a deteriorating economy and the prospect of social upheaval, the Chinese bureaucracy is desperately seeking to consolidate its forces around the figure of Xia form of rule that Marxists have classically designated as Bonapartist. As the article explained, Bonapartism is an inherently unstable and temporary balance of class forces. While all the signs point to Xi being installed at the upcoming congress as Chinas paramount leader for another five years, his future and that of the CCP itself is far from certain. Amid the rising tide of class struggle internationally, the re-emergence of the Chinese working class will shatter the illusory strength of the regime. The crucial issue for workers in China, as internationally, is the construction of the necessary revolutionary socialist leadership capable of leading those struggles. U.S. District Judge Catherine D. Perry on Thursday sentenced a registered sex offender who tried to obtain nude photos of a 6-year-old girl to 15 years in prison. On April 9, 2022, the Ste. Genevieve County Sheriffs Office was notified that William C. Dickhans, 39, was using a borrowed cell phone for illegal activity. Dickhans told deputies that hed met someone in a chat room who purportedly was the mother of a 6-year-old. In conversations on April 6 and April 7, Dickhans sent pictures of his genitals to the girl and requested pictures of her. Dickhans also admitted to deputies that he was using the chat room to try and find young children. Dickhans pleaded guilty June 23 to a charge of solicitation of child pornography. In 2005, Dickhans was sentenced to 70 months in prison after pleading guilty in U.S. District Court to receipt of child pornography, possession of child pornography and two counts of transportation of child pornography. The FBI and Ste. Genevieve County Sheriffs Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Costantin prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals 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 www.justice.gov/psc. The Missouri State Historic Preservation Office has announced the opening of the 2023 application cycle for the Historic Preservation Fund grants. This program expects to bring more than $200,000 in federal money, derived from oil and gas lease revenues on the Outer Continental Shelf, to Missouris historic communities. For more information about this grant program or to download a grant application, visit mostateparks.com/page/84331/historic-preservation-fund-grants. For questions, contact the Missouri State Historic Preservation Office at 573-751-7958 or moshpo@dnr.mo.gov. Deadline to submit a pre-application is Oct. 14. The Historic Preservation Fund grants support projects that relate directly to the identification, evaluation or protection of historic properties. Past projects in Missouri have included: Workshop on siding repair in Ste. Genevieve Planning work for the African American Heritage Trail in Kansas City Digitization of archaeological survey files at the University of Missouri Literature explaining historic preservation to homeowners in Joplin Architectural surveys in Jefferson City Feasibility study for the Moniteau County courthouse Drafting of design guidelines in Excelsior Springs Nominations to the National Register of Historic Places from towns throughout the state Certified local governments, county governmental entities, municipalities and nonprofit organizations with a historic preservation mission are eligible to apply for these grants. Applications from certified local governments will be considered first, in accordance with federal regulations. Missouri State Parks is proud to promote historic preservation in Missouri, said Mike Sutherland, deputy director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The Historic Preservation Fund pass-through grants are one way we help preserve Missouris significant cultural heritage. Fans who gather for the twice-yearly Foxfield Races steeplechase typically wear sundresses and boat shoes, but Sundays drizzly weather had them decked out in rain boots and raincoats. Umbrellas dotted the verdant field. The races went on despite the weather, except what would have been the first ever pony race. About 3,700 people bought tickets for this falls races, close to the 4,000 who purchased tickets last year, said Foxfield Races executive director Kelsey Cox. She said attendance was down because of inclement weather brought in by Hurricane Ian. Still, those who braved the falling mist and wind were eager to see the six races on the schedule. Im so excited, said Leo Peterson, age 6. It was his first time at Foxfields Family Day. He added that he loved petting the bunnies and riding the big horse. His mom, Beth Peterson, was nervous about the weather, she said, but hoped that she and her family had bundled up enough to prepare for it. It was Christian Johnsons first time at the races too. Though she was born and raised in Charlottesville, she had been unable to come to Foxfield until Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville secured free tickets for her and other families who had Habitat homes. Then they invited her to sing the national anthem. Ive always wanted to come, and so now being here and being able to sing, its an honor, Johnson said. I didnt even know they knew I could sing. The fall races marked the second year of Habitat for Humanitys partnership with Foxfield. The company has made a five-year philanthropic commitment to Habitat for Humanity. This was also the second year that the races proceeds generated a $50,000 donation to charity. Were really excited about this new group of stewards of the Foxfield Races. They see this site as a kind of hallowed ground, a place where people from all walks of life can come together instead of being exclusive, said Dan Rosensweig, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville. The Foxfield Races have been held for the last 45 years. In 2019, Foxfield Races entered into an agreement with the Albemarle County Easement Authority that will allow the property, which is about eight miles northwest of Charlottesville, to continue to be used for the races while protecting it from further development. Foxfield has always seemed like, well, thats the thing those university students do. But really, this fall race day is making it a place where everybody feels comfortable, Rosensweig said. The jockeys, however, couldnt get totally comfortable. Rain softened the course, meaning that riders were forced to be more careful. On rainy days, the horses and the jockeys are more cautious. If the grounds a little deep, you cant go as fast, said Barclay Rives, one of the races outriders. It makes the race a bit more of a stamina test. Youve got to be more sensible about how fast you go, said Freddie Procter, who first participated in the Foxfield Races last spring. Last springs race was easier going. It was a sunny day, the ground was nice and quick. The ground is gonna be a lot softer today, and its only gonna get worse, Procter said. Procter won this falls amateur hurdle race. Parker Hendriks, considered one of the best steeplechase jockeys in the country, was riding at Foxfield for the third time. Its very testing. This is an undulating, hilly track, Hendriks said. Wed rather have that than rock-hard groundits better for the horses soundness. Although they shivered, attendees cheered as horses crossed the finish line. The rain just makes it all more fun-spirited, said Natalie Burgwin, volunteer and events manager for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville. Allied Concrete, Brown Advisory, Faulconer Construction, Flow Audi Charlottesville, Marsh McLennan Agency, Quantitative Investment Management, Tiger Fuel, Virginia Eagle Distributing, and Virginia National Bank sponsored the event. Defunding the police was the worst possible public reaction to the killing of George Floyd. The cold-blooded Minneapolis cop who kneeled on Floyds neck for more than nine minutes as Floyd pleaded for his life was a monster. But using his crime to justify the wholesale sacking of the police department never held a chance of success practically or politically. Eventually, it backfired and offered an excuse not to deal with police brutality. What makes the most sense when individual police officers commit crimes is to hold them accountable by applying the justice system to them in the same way it would apply to an average citizen. This is why a court decision out of Chesterfield County last week sent a horrible message that the Virginia General Assembly must fix legislatively as soon as possible and that the governor should quickly sign into law. The case of Chesterfield Det. Robert Sprouse comes nowhere close to what Minneapolis Officer Derek Chauvin did in choking to death George Floyd. But the Sprouse case tests the principle of police accountability in a much broader way. Sprouse added language to seven search warrants two days after they had been served in a drug investigation. The addition was serious enough to lead Chesterfield officials to suspend Sprouse and appoint a special prosecutor to investigate. Chesterfield police had to drop all the drug charges in the case Sprouse was working on. Sprouses action called into question every other case he has investigated and could free criminals from prison. Yet Chesterfield Circuit Judge M. Duncan Minton Jr. last week ruled against a legal argument by the special prosecutor who brought a criminal charge against Sprouse. In Virginia, Minton ruled, malfeasance in office is not a crime. Think about that for a minute. Minton said Virginia currently lacks a legal vehicle to criminally charge any public official for misusing his or her office. Thats a wide, sweeping opinion that Minton says the Virginia Court of Appeals affirmed in a recent case, Brown vs. Commonwealth. The Cornell University Law School Legal Information Institute says malfeasance is an act that is illegal and causes physical or monetary harm to someone else. Malfeasance is intentional conduct that is wrongful or unlawful, especially by officials or public employees. Yet Minton says this states appeals court has clearly stated that malfeasance in office is not a crime that would subject the violator to arrest. This sounds to us like an invitation to corruption. It is as if the court has declared open season on citizens by unscrupulous public officials betraying the very people they supposedly serve along with taxpayers who pay those officials salaries. Equally troublesome, Mintons decision, if founded, seems to create a double standard that favors public officials over regular people as it comes to paying for improper behavior. Minton said that the only actions allowed to address malfeasance of office are civil law suits and firings. The special prosecutor who looked into Sprouses behavior brought a charge against the detective based on violation of English Common Law. Sprouse, said prosecutor G. Ryan Mehaffey, broke the law by willfully and knowingly performing an act officially for which there was no authority of law and over which Sprouse had no discretion. Mehaffey relied on a Virginia Supreme Court decision that English Common Law holds so long as it does not conflict with the states Bill of Rights, Constitution or an act of the General Assembly. We believe that the legislature needs to step up on this confusing issue. Legislators must ignore their natural conflict of interest in protecting themselves and produce a statute that makes clear that public officials are not immune from criminal charges when they purposely do something that they know is against the law. The need for this kind of clarity makes sense in every kind of public office. But it applies most importantly to members of law enforcement who enjoy the power to arrest fellow citizens. Judge Minton said applying English Common Law in this state would result in several instances of absurdity and redundancy in the Code of Virginia. We say there is nothing more absurd than refusing to make public officials accountable for malfeasance. It was time to drain the pool at the Osborn Aquatic Center in Corvallis, and the four-legged couldn't have been more excited. The dogs, they finally had their day on Saturday, Oct. 1. Sure, humans had enjoyed the pool all summer. But with autumn's arrival, staff at Osborn let the canines have a romp of their own before emptying the pool for winter. It's become an annual tradition, and some were repeat customers. Joy Thissell of Corvallis said her Newfoundland Minnie loved the annual dog day swim so much last year, "she dragged me back to the gate on our walks for a month." The Labrador retrievers were, well, retrieving balls, the golden retrievers were glimmering in the sun, and the corgis were doing their best to keep up. Days like this were made for "Josephine Barker." Human Andrew Terrill of Albany said the lab can't resist jumping in water. "We put on a bath for my granddaughter, and she tries to jump in," Terrill said. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Corvallis Gazette-Times. There are many causes but no cure. There is no vaccine to prevent it. The disease is asthma, and 25 million people nationwide, children and adults, suffer from it In Connecticut, 71,900 children and 298,000 adults, more than one in 10 overall, have it, according to the state Department of Public Health, although the rate has been dropping from its most recent peak in 2015-17. Asthma is more common among males, Black and Hispanic people and those who live in cities, largely because of the old houses, schools and factories with poor ventilation. Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood, said Dr. Alex Hogan, a pediatric hospitalist at Connecticut Childrens medical center. If you have asthma and youre over the age of 5, you really, truly have asthma, he said. Theres a lot of kids who have an asthma-like syndrome that may or may not stay if theyre younger than that. Hogan said for 60% to 70% of children with asthma, the cause is some type of allergic reaction, though it is the same disease as adult asthma. So you have a nice open airway, he said. Normally people with asthma have chronic inflammation of those airways, and so that chronic inflammation makes the airways narrower, if untreated. Then, a trigger, can set off an asthmatic reaction. Hogan said that might include cigarette smoke, pollen and, most commonly for hospitalized kids, its like a cold virus. The allergens affect the smooth muscle in our lungs, which constricts the airways, and you now have a really hard time breathing, youre having air pass through a small hole because the muscles are so constricted, Hogan said. Astronomical To make things worse, those with asthma are at greater risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19, the health department says. In the hospital, albuterol is the first line of treatment, to relax the muscles. Later, inhaled steroids may be given in acute cases, Hogan said. Connecticut Childrens normally has 40 to 50 admissions during the winter months, when cold weather and being around other children make asthma more common, and 20 or fewer the rest of the year. But when COVID-19 hit in March 2020, our admissions per week dropped like a stone, he said. Story continues Lately, admissions have been more normal, but in the last two months, cases have been astronomical, Hogan said. Because theres an outbreak epidemic of likely enterovirus, which is like a seasonal virus that just comes around every now and then. But its causing a lot of kids to be admitted to the hospital for virus-induced wheezing, which is likely related to asthma. September brought in 100, he said. Dr. Carrie Redlich, director of the Yale Occupational and Environmental Medicine Program, said asthma, no matter what causes it, tends to look the same. Its a disease that can start in childhood. It can continue into adulthood. It can go away and come back as an adult or it can just start new as an adult. She said about 15% of new asthma in adults is related to work. For example, shes seen bakers exposed to airborne flour who tend to be from small bakeries. But it can also be a preexisting case that the work environment makes worse. However, she said its widely unrecognized as a work-related disease by physicians, who focus more on treatment and medications than on causes. Its really important to recognize, to try and prevent the disease or prevent the disease from getting worse by reducing the exposures that are causing the problem, rather than by giving more medication, Redlich said. Patients may be reluctant to say their asthma is related to work because theyre afraid of losing their job, she said. And its not always clear what the trigger for the disease is. For any of the illnesses like asthma that are related to work, there isnt one test that will identify it specifically as being related to work, she said. Old or poorly maintained homes also can be a source of mold and other irritants that can cause or exacerbate asthma. The Church Street South housing project near the train station in New Haven that was condemned because of the conditions a big driver of that was so many people living there had asthma, Redlich said. It affected as many as 40% of residents. Biological soup Paula Schenck is an environmental specialist and assistant director of UConn Healths Center for Indoor Environments and Health. She advises physicians about the effects of indoor conditions, and years ago worked with the Hartford Public Schools on how to keep students, teachers and staff safe from threats such as mold and dust. By addressing indoor environments, we certainly saw a significant decrease in kids coming to the nurses office, Schenck said. Kids come to the nurses office to get their asthma meds in elementary school all the time. So thats a matter of control, which is very important. But what we saw was a real reduction when the indoor environment was addressed with respect to moisture and other kinds of things that lead to asthma exacerbations and to developing asthma. She calls indoor air, with its mold-promoting moisture, dust mites, paint flecks and other particulates a biological soup. Chronic leaks or humidity that isnt controlled, and then having an environment where the ventilation is inadequate, its a perfect storm for an environment that creates all kinds of biological growth that then can become sensitizers for asthma and for other respiratory illness, Schenck said. She said water is often a problem when there are leaks, but also in many 1980s and 1990s office buildings that were built with indoor gutters to avoid them showing on the outside. And whats happened is those interior gutters, whether theyve ruptured or whether theres been a roof leak that then has forced the water through the gutters, youve kept moisture inside, she said. In homes, shell look at how water is draining off the roof, and whether its going into the basement. Improving the environment should be considered a treatment for asthma because it reduces the need for medications, Schenck said. In the early 2000s, all the great controller meds came out, where people take their puffer every morning, she said, as opposed to inhalers used when someone has an asthma attack. And then they did a study, an [epidemiological] study, looking at what happens with time, and they found that there was a difference in height. It did affect the children, Schenck said. If there was a focus on the indoor environment early on, they wouldnt have needed as much medication. So its a part of treatment, she said. Some help is coming from the state, as Gov. Ned Lamont announced Sept. 14 that $150 million in grants would be given to schools to upgrade heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, in addition to $165 million schools have committed from money they received from a federal school emergency relief fund. While the money is focused on preventing COVID-19, it will help with asthma, too. Reducing risk Another issue is chemicals, especially in a factory that uses isocyanates, used in manufacturing foams, fibers, paints and varnishes, as well as in the auto industry and building insulation, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Schenck said isocyanates are a causative agent for asthma. Proper ventilation and maintenance are vital, she said. Schenck works with doctors whose patients are showing asthmatic symptoms, talks about what may be causing them, and then I work with the employer to say, what can we do to reduce the risk, she said. So hopefully that person will be able to stay at work before they get asthma chronically. We want to see our patients before its a chronic process. An example is blown insulation in a house. While the person working with the insulation may wear the proper suit to avoid breathing in the fumes, theres a carpenter 20 feet from that person who has no protection, working on that same construction site, she said. This can put the carpenter at risk of asthma, Schenck said. Schenck said there has been improvement in environments but said, increasingly, there is a tension between energy management and environment for health. An example might be that ventilation is turned off at night, causing humidity to rise too high. And so, we do see continuing patients from office buildings and schools because energy conservation has won out, she said. Another factor that can increase asthma is higher temperatures as the result of climate change. A 2020 report from the Yale Center on Climate Change and Health reported that a later winter and earlier spring can increase the amount of ragweed pollen, which exacerbates asthma, as can more ground-level ozone and wildfire smoke. Tim Morse, professor emeritus in occupational and environmental health at UConn Health, puts together an annual Labor Day report for the state Workers Compensation Commission. It includes workers compensation claims and physician reports of occupational illness to the state health department. Occupational illnesses has always been known to be greatly underreported, so what this report tries to do is pull together what we do know about it, Morse said. The 2022 report, including data from 2020, does not list asthma as a major claim in workers comp, partly because its focused on COVID-19, but claims did rise for asthma and bronchitis from 28 in 2019 to 31 in 2020. Physician reports, which include reactive airways dysfunction syndrome, dropped from 20 to 12. While the numbers are not large and underreported Morse said the drop in reports could have to do with the pandemic. A lot of things were affected by COVID in 2020, and so there are a lot of people working remotely, he said. If youre not going into the office, then youre not getting exposed to that indoor air quality problem or mold or so on. You could at least hypothesize that COVID had an impact on occupational asthma. Repeated exposure to chemicals and mold can lead to asthma, Morse said. Theres a sensitization reaction, where if you are exposed to a relatively large amount of something, then you could get an asthma reaction. And then once youve had that reaction, then you get more sensitive to it, kind of like with poison ivy, he said. Both in the home and workplace, bleach or a substitute, known as quaternary ammonium compounds, can also bring on an asthmatic reaction, Morse said, which can be avoided by using microfiber mops, which dont require disinfectants but pick up particles using just water. Ed Stannard can be reached at estannard@courant.com or 860-993-8190. Akris is perhaps the only house on the international fashion calendar to pin small, ravioli-sized fabric swatches to the sketches tucked into the folder placed on each seat of its runway theater. During the pandemic, when fashion shows werent possible, it dispatched an entire medley of materials on a ring like an overloaded set of keys, only delicious to the touch. More from WWD Both gestures speak legions about the brands roots in St. Gallen, Switzerland, an epicenter for textile mills and embroidery houses since the 18th century, and about its soft-spoken creative director Albert Kriemler, who has put exceptional fabrics at the center of his design process for 42 years and counting. Fashion is not only visual, it is also tactile, he says in a new book Akris published to mark its 100th anniversary. When you put this fabric against your skin, you understand. Centenary celebrations kicked off on Oct. 1 with its spring 2023 show, a private dinner, and the release of the 162-page tome Akris A Century in Fashion Selbstverstandlich. (The last word translates to of course in English.) There will be anniversary events later this month with Neiman Marcus in Chicago, Illinois, Bergdorf Goodman in New York, and in Washington, D.C., where the Akris boutique reflects a design concept by David Chipperfield. A new concept for the next century, Kriemler said. The Akris boutique in Washington, D.C., with an interior by David Chipperfield. Anniversary events will continue around the world, reaching a zenith with the May 23 opening of an Akris exhibition at the Museum fur Gestaltung Zurich, which is dedicated to industrial design, visual communication, architecture and craft. We want to celebrate our customers, celebrate with our teams. Our people, our employees are important to us, added his brother Peter Kriemler, president of the fashion house for 35 years, who credits the firms laser-focus on luxury womens ready-to-wear for its longevity. Story continues Indeed, the houses only brand extension came in 2009 when it acquired Comtesse, an elite German handbag-maker favored by international royals and prized for its expertise with handwoven horsehair. Its first volley was the trapezoidal Ai bag. The executive said shoes would be the next logical category, long before menswear, but hes in no hurry. We believe small is beautiful, he said, flashing a smile. To be sure, the Kriemlers come from family full of fabric whisperers. In an interview at the brands Paris showroom, Albert Kriemler explained how his grandmother Alice Kriemler-Schoch, founder of Akris, always used the right and best cotton for her apron-making business the origin of Akris and how her son Max had the fabulous skill to develop fabrics. Indeed, as a teenager Kriemler would accompany his father on his trips to textile fairs. For us, fabric is the first playground of creative freedom, he said, recalling their time at Ideabiella in Como, Italy, in 1978, when they discovered an 800-gram double-face cashmere whose price was eye-watering, but the cloth melted in the hand. Max Kriemler, laden with apron samples. Max Kriemler bought enough to make a coat he christened Alpha, which was the beginning of a whole cashmere department at Akris and a cornerstone of its business, Albert Kriemler explained, noting that he continues to use the same quality of cashmere for the brands double-face outerwear. When a fabric is pure quality, and still looks modern, you should never change, he said, lauding the artistry and pure craftsmanship of its haute fabric suppliers and print designers. Akris also continues to use a twisted cotton poplin Max Kriemler developed in the 70s. Yet the designer is forever hunting for new fabrics that get his creative juices flowing. I think fashion has to surprise. Ive learned this over the last 40 years, he said. When we are back in St. Gallen, especially in my studio, I feel completely free to create something new. As if on cue, a model entered the room wearing a sleek, buttonless navy coat, a navy sweater and narrow pants. Kriemler leapt from his seat excitedly, eager to let a visitor touch the coats marvelous cloth: a twisted cotton denim double-face that has the look and drape of cashmere but is better suited for summer wear. Next he showed off a vivid green coat in panama-weave silk organza, which dazzled him with its stiff hand and elegant drape. Then he grabbed an evening column in a silk georgette hes been using since he was 19. Its caress is like the finest sand running through ones fingers. When I find a fabric, I always have an idea what is feasible, he said. Thats why I can only draw when I have the fabric in hand. For its anniversary show, Akris decided to include nine looks from the clothing archive, including that landmark 1978 coat, and a sampling of looks by Albert Kriemler from the 80s and early 90s. A fashion shoot featuring those and other vintage pieces became the visual centerpiece of the anniversary book. Iwan Baan, a Dutch photographer who specializes in architecture, depicts models in the Brutalist architecture of a University of St. Gallen building from 1963 by architect Walter M. Forderer. We were so thrilled with how they turned out. But you know what: I also discovered how modern my clothes from the 1980s were, Kriemler said. To wit: The spring 2023 collection not only took its cues from archival looks; Akris will reproduce the nine vintage styles, as it keeps detailed records regarding fabric suppliers. That looks from 30 years ago still look right to Kriemlers eye today is really an expression of a timeless modernity we stand for. When he decided to include Calais lace, which was a hallmark of his first collection in 1983, he had lengths in the archive to show the supplier Darquer so it could reproduce new rolls to his specifications. The Akris sewing atelier in St. Gallen. The lines and proportions need to look totally natural and perfect, according to Severin Meyer, patternmaker for blazers and jackets since 1997. Beautiful lapels, a good fit I love that. While the book is edited by the Kriemler brothers, they conscripted an array of contributors to write essays recapping the brands artist collaborations, its embroidery know-how, the family history and the prominent women who wear Akris. Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo., relates that her double-face cashmere sheath dresses by Akris boosted her conference as one of the few female leaders of a Fortune 500 company. They say clothes make the man. I tell you something, clothes make the woman, too, if theyre the right clothes, she said. No longer did I have to feel uncomfortable about the fact that I was a woman or an immigrant or a person of color. Kriemler also lauded the talents and know-how of his team, and the book spotlights nine of his closest collaborators, including patternmakers, print and knit designers. Knitwear designer Manuela Luthy-Schneider sounds a lot like Kriemler in her forward-looking orientation. For me, the current collection is always my favorite. When one collection is finished, I start looking forward to the next one. Click here to read the full article. PROVIDENCE Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell's wife, Elaine Chao, has only one known Rhode Island political tie: GOP congressional candidate Allan Fung. They served together on an Asian Pacific American Advisory Council created by the Republican National Committee in March 2014 to strengthen ties with minority communities." But it was not until days later that Fung chose to comment, in response to a Journal inquiry, about former President Donald Trump's mockery of Chao who was born in Taiwan and served as Trump's secretary of transportation. Trump called described Chao as McConnells China loving wife, Coco Chow" on his social media platform Friday. Fung's response: "I would not have used that language, do not condone its use, and condemn it." (Asked if he condemned Trump for using that language, he repeated: "I would not have used that language, do not condone its use, and condemn it." Housing in Rhode Island: Tenants band together against RI landlord as they face deplorable conditions The Trump post began with an attack on McConnell for supporting "Democrat sponsored bills," including most recently a stopgap funding bill to avert a federal government shutdown. It wound around to the "Coco Chow" dig at Chao. "Hes not even trying to hide the racism," Farah Griffin, who served as Trumps communications director for about nine months in 2020, posted on Twitter in the wake of Trump's attack on McConnell and Chao. This isnt some crazy person on the internet, this is the GOP front-runner for president if the party doesnt wake up & demand better, Griffin said alongside a screenshot of Trumps post. In 1961, at just 8 years old, Chao arrived in the United States on a freight ship from Taiwan. Her family was fleeing the communist revolution on mainland China. At the time, she spoke no English. Speaking to Bryant University graduates in May 2018, she talked about the difficulties of "adjusting to a new country, a new culture and a new language. Story continues "Despite the challenges, my parents ... believed that life in this country would be better ... that with education, hard work and determination we could accomplish anything, and they were right,'' said Chao, who graduated from Mount Holyoke College and then Harvard Business School. Abuse, disguises, denial: Nick Alahverdian's act is all too familiar to his Ohio ex-wife A two-time GOP candidate for governor, Fung is currently running for Rhode Island's 2nd Congressional District seat against Democrat Seth Magaziner, the state treasurer. The longtime incumbent, Democrat James Langevin, is not seeking reelection. Fung has acknowledged voting for Trump and has never voiced regrets or acknowledged any possible connection between the former president and the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Political Scene: Is it fair to blame Allan Fung for Cranstons financial woes? "They want to use scare tactics like that [Trump hat] photo," Fung told reporters in a six-minute question-and-answer session at his congressional campaign launch in April. He was referring to a photo of him wearing a knit cap with Trump's name emblazoned across it that then-Gov. Gina Raimondo made famous in their last match-up. "I am standing strong asking people to support me, and I will have people in this district who are Trump supporters and disenchanted Biden supporters," he said. On Monday, the Magaziner campaign sent along this comment on Trump's mocking post: This is yet another remind[er] that we must turn the page on Trumpism once and for all. Allan Fung has pledged to put Trump loyalists in control of Congress, and I will do everything in my power to ensure that does not happen. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Allan Fung condemns Trump's attacks on McConnell's wife Elaine Chao An appeals court has ruled a Rapides Parish judge was correct when she ruled a Lafayette-area man had used fraud to take a convenience store that later was destroyed by fire. In her August 2021 ruling, 9th Judicial District Court Judge Patricia Koch wrote it was clearly convincing that the supposed sale of Chandler Groceries, a mainstay on La. 28 West outside Alexandria for decades, was a case of fraud. The man who claimed he paid $325,000 cash for the store, Ayoub Ali, appealed the judge's decision. Last week, the Louisiana 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal in Lake Charles upheld Kochs ruling. Ali claimed the trial court erred both when it ruled the sale a case of fraud and that owner Donald Chandler's signature on the document he filed with the Rapides Parish Clerk of Courts office was fraudulently obtained. Kochs ruling voided the purported sale. An appeals court has ruled a Rapides Parish judge was correct when she ruled a Lafayette-area man had used fraud to take a convenience store that later was destroyed by fire. "Here, the trial court found as a matter of fact that there was no agreement to sell the property as the document that ultimately appeared to do so was produced and executed fraudulently by Mr. Ali," reads the court's ruling. 'Burning really good': Fire that destroyed Chandler's Grocery Sunday night in Rapides Parish is under investigation 'Clearly convincing': Rapides judge nullifies sale of Chandler Groceries in trial ruling Ali had filed a three-page bill of sale with the clerks office March 10, 2020, that says Chandler sold the business to him. The document was signed by two witnesses and notarized, but the witnesses testified at trial that the document was not what they had signed. Ali had been running the store and had expressed interest in buying it from Chandler, who testified he said hed sell for $325,000 cash. But he also testified that Ali missed several appointments to discuss the sale. Chandler and Ali were to meet Alis father at the office of Chandlers attorney, too. But as the two men were driving to the appointment, Alis father who was providing cash for the sale called to say hed been in a car wreck while traveling from Broussard, where they lived. Story continues What Chandler and the other two witnesses said they do remember signing was a two-page lease agreement that Ali asked them to sign so he could secure a liquor license for the store. The store was destroyed in a June 7, 2020, fire. Two days later, a lawsuit Chandler filed disputing the sale was filed. The fire was investigated by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal's Office. A spokesperson said on Tuesday that the investigation has been closed with the cause of the fire being undetermined. A three-judge panel of the appellate court said Kochs finding that the cash sale wasnt authentic was not clearly wrong or manifestly erroneous. Ali still faces criminal charges stemming from the case. He was arrested in February 2021 by Louisiana State Police and later was formally charged with insurance fraud, attempted theft of more than $25,000, forgery and filing false public records. Hes set for a pretrial conference Jan. 18. This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Appeals court backs ruling finding Chandler Groceries sale was fraud The post Blues Clues Hosts Steve, Joe, and Josh Take on New York City in Movie Trailer: Watch appeared first on Consequence. For the first time ever, all three hosts in the history of Blues Clues have come together for the trailer to Blues Big City Adventure, the first feature-length movie in the beloved Nickelodeon series universe. In the clip, current Blues Clues & You host Josh Dela Cruz and the titular pup hit Broadway, only to realize Josh forgot his handy dandy notebook. Their animated friends at home have the same realization, and head to New York to track down original host Steve Burns at his Blue Prints detective agency to help them find Josh. Naturally, Steves successor and fictional brother Joe (played by Donovan Patton) tags along. Heres the official description: When Josh gets the opportunity of a lifetime to audition for Rainbow Puppys Broadway musical, Josh and Blue skidoo to NYC for the very first time where they meet new friends and discover the magic of music, dance, and following ones dreams! The entire Blues Clues crew is reunited for this special movie musical event, with the beloved animated friends and all three hosts Josh, Steve, and Joe together for the first time in the Big Apple like fans have never seen them before! Blues Big City Adventure begins streaming on Paramount+ on November 18th. In September 2021, Steve Burns marked the 25th anniversary of Blues Clues by sharing a touching video. After Stephen Colbert teared up while watching the clip on The Late Show, Burns walked on stage to give the teary-eyed comedian a hug. Blues Clues Hosts Steve, Joe, and Josh Take on New York City in Movie Trailer: Watch Eddie Fu Popular Posts Subscribe to Consequences email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox. The Kansas City Chiefs have brought back a familiar face on the practice squad, but theyve also lost a practice squad player for six games. According to the NFLs personnel notice for Monday, Chiefs practice squad WR/RB Jerrion Ealy has been suspended for six games for violating the NFLs policy on performance-enhancing substances. An undrafted free agent out of Ole Miss, Ealy was released during 53-man roster cuts and signed to the practice squad promptly after. Hes been a developmental player for the team with upside on special teams. Hell move to the reserve/suspended list for the next six games and wont count toward the practice squad. Replacing Ealy on the practice squad is former Chiefs WR Marcus Kemp, who was reported to be visiting the team over the weekend. Kemp originally signed with the team as an undrafted free agent out of Hawaii in 2017. He primarily played special teams during his tenure in Kansas City, with just a handful of catches and opportunities on offense during his career. Kemp left the Chiefs this past offseason and joined the New York Giants. He suffered a hamstring injury during the course of his time in New York. He landed on injured reserve, where he was eventually released with an injury settlement. Now healthy, Kemp returns to Kansas City to reinforce the special teams unit. With players like Elijah Lee and Dicaprio Bootle already having used multiple practice squad elevations, it makes a ton of sense to add a player like Kemp to the fold. Expect that Dave Toub will get him up to speed and have him ready to be called up in a standard practice squad elevation as early as this week. List Chiefs stock watch: Which players impressed during Week 4 vs. Buccaneers Story originally appeared on Chiefs Wire In the Republican Party of Donald Trump and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, only those faithful to Trumps cult-like MAGA movement are safe. Democrats are called the enemy, labeled killers. And even Republicans who dont embrace MAGA dogma any lost election was stolen, Trump is always right . have a death wish. Trump, the current front-runner for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination should he decide to run, took to Truth Social on Friday night and attacked Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell because he voted for legislation sponsored by Democrats: He has a DEATH WISH. More:Trump turns up heat on Mitch McConnell criticism, says senator has a 'death wish' Trump threatens McConnell, hurls racist nickname at Elaine Chao Trump then launched a racist attack on McConnells wife, Elaine Chao, who served in Trumps Cabinet when he was president: Must immediately seek help and advise from his China loving wife, Coco Chow! Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and his wife, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, in 2020. We know from Jan. 6, 2021, that Trump has potentially violent followers who take cues from him, so theres no way to see the DEATH WISH comment as anything more than a veiled threat. With racist garbage about the wife of a high-ranking member of the party Trump claims to represent, the former president shows the world his true nature for the 10 millionth time. And by misspelling advice as advise, Trump shows the world, also for the 10 millionth time, that he can't be bothered with little things like attention to detail. Michigan Republicans line up to kiss Trump's ring This is dangerous rhetoric, but rather than stand up to it, many Republicans remained silent over the weekend. In fact, several Republicans joined Trump at a Saturday rally in Michigan, including GOP candidates for the states three highest offices: Tudor Dixon, running for governor; Matthew DePerno, running for attorney general; and Kristina Karamo, running for secretary of state. Greene, of Georgia, was also there and, as if to impress Trump with violent rhetoric of her own, told the crowd: Im not going to mince words with you all. Democrats want Republicans dead, and they have already started the killings. Story continues That is absolute insanity. And like Trumps comments directed at McConnell, its sickeningly dangerous. Not to mention false. Trump and Greene make it clear that no one disloyal is safe Saying a Republican has a DEATH WISH because he did his job and voted for legislation puts a target on the back of that Republican. Saying Democrats have already started the killings provides a justification for violence against anyone who happens to be a Democrat. Openly spouting a racist nickname against a woman of Asian heritage tells people, during a time of rising anti-Asian hate crimes, that its OK to be hateful. Former President Donald Trump and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene at a golf tournament in Bedminster, N.J., on July 30, 2022. And this all happened over the course of TWO DAYS! Republicans keep their mouths shut in face of Trump's hatefulness Any serious response from so-called reasonable Republican elected leaders? Nope.GOP Sen. Rick Scott, asked several times about Trump's words, told CNN he doesn't "condone violence" and added the useless, mealy mouthed comment: "I hope no one is racist." How courageous. Republican leaders wont say a thing, even to defend themselves, even when its clear Trump and his MAGA minions have loyalty only to themselves. For the sizable swath of voters and politicians who remain loyal to Trump despite his falling approval numbers, this is not the behavior of a political party. This is the behavior of a cult: fealty to one individual; zero tolerance for any who stray from the core beliefs; threats of violence toward any who step out of line; characterizing those who disagree as existential threats. MAGA followers think you are not a Democrat; you are a member of a party now actively killing Republicans. You are not a mainstream conservative; you are a person with a death wish. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell in 2022. How can Americans of good conscious not come together to shut this down? How is it possible those of us who see how wildly messed up this all is cant come together as one in condemnation? How is it possible for Republicans to continue supporting a malignant figure who would unleash his hateful hounds on them in a heartbeat? As Trump and pathetic wannabes like Greene have committed outrage after outrage after outrage, each time sinking to new depths, theres a common refrain: Ignore them. Dont give them the attention they crave. Like it or not, Trump and Greene have power and stand to gain more Thats fine if youre fending off a meaningless internet troll, but as I've said already, Trump is likely to be the next Republican candidate for president. And he is, of course, a former president. Hes not nobody. Greene is a big-time fundraiser for Republicans and someone routinely praised by Trump and revered by his loyal followers. As much as wed like her to be nobody, shes not. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga. These cartoonish MAGA knuckleheads have power, and if we dont denounce them, if we dont vote them into oblivion, they stand to gain more. Real danger could follow because as they made clear over just one weekend, they will come for you if youre an apostate Republican. They will come for you if youre a Democrat because theyll be told youre coming for them. Let's stop dancing around it and call the MAGA movement what it is They will come for any who question them. Because theyre not a political movement.. Theyre a dangerous and swiftly worsening cult. And they need to be denounced by everyone, including Republicans who still value basic human decency. Then they need to be rejected by voters, en masse and with thunderous force. Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on Twitter @RexHuppke and Facebook: facebook.com/RexIsAJerk More columns from Rex Huppke: Clarence Thomas must address Ginni Thomas' balmy conspiratorial beliefs Lizzo plays James Madison's crystal flute while racists play dog whistles Ken Paxton heroically runs from subpoena. Here's a new political ad on his bravery. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump goes after Mitch McConnell and wife with violent threat, racism An unsettling new image shows Deborah Debbie Colliers van traveling down a Georgia road hours before she was found murdered in a ravine. A traffic camera captured Colliers rented Chrysler Pacifica near a school at 2.17pm on 10 September, the suspected day of her killing, Habersham County Sheriffs Investigator George Cason said. The vehicle is believed to have been heading toward a Family Dollar store where Collier was last seen. Colliers remains were found on 11 September in a wooded area on the side of a state road in Clarkesville. The 59-year-old woman had been reported missing the day before by her daughter and husband, who last saw her at the family home in Clayton, nearly 60 miles from where her burned and partially naked body was discovered. Last week officials announced they believe Colliers killing was personal and targeted. Surveillance video obtained by authorities showed Collier entering the Family Dollar store at 2.55pm on 10 September. She was wearing a red shirt and purchased a rain poncho, a two-roll pack of paper towels, a refillable torch lighter, an OBD Trap and a reusable tote bag some of the items later found next to her body. A new image shows Deborah Debbie Colliers van traveling down a Georgia road hours before she was found murdered in a ravine (Habersham County Sheriffs Office) On Friday, the Habersham County Sheriffs Office said that new surveillance video showed Collier sitting in her car for ten minutes around 3.09pm, Fox News reported. During that time, she sent a Venmo payment of $2,385 to her daughter with a chilling note reading: They are not going to let me go love you there is a key to the house in the flue flower pot by the door. Authorities said Collier was killed sometime between 3.19pm on 10 September, when she left the parking lot of the Family Dollar, and 12.44pm the following day, when her body was found by deputies who saw her car on the side of a road. Authorities previously told The Daily Beast that the incident is believed to be drug-related. In a Friday statement, law enforcement reiterated that they have ruled out a possible kidnapping or suicide. The sheriffs office said that Colliers daughter, who first raised the alarm about her mother being missing, had recently moved in with her. Story continues Although her husband had told authorities that Collier had left her purse, credit cards and drivers license at home, authorities said on Friday that Colliers purse and phone were found at the scene. Surveillance video obtained by authorities earlier this week shows Collier entering a Family Dollar store at 2.55pm on 10 September (Surveillance video) Investigators said they expect more developments in the investigation once their petitioned search warrants are approved. We are now just beginning to get responses to search warrants and subpoenas in the case, Murray Kogod, with the sheriffs office, said. Collier was also reported missing by her sister, Diane Shirley, who mentioned that Collier had been involved in a car incident in August when a can of paint fell from a moving vehicle and struck Colliers car, Fox News reported. The paint went everywhere, and the driver was trying to convince my sister not to tell the cops that he was driving because he was out on parole, Ms Shirley said. And there was a stipulation to his parole that he could not drive. Collier was found lying on her back, naked and grasping a small tree with her right hand (Debbie Collier/Facebook) Authorities have said that Colliers final trip to the Family Dollar only lasted 14 minutes and Collier was by herself. On 11 September, Colliers van was found on the side of a state road in Clarkesville. Authorities ran the numbers of her license plate and discovered the vehicle was linked to a person reported missing in Clayton. K-9 units brought to the scene led investigators to Colliers body. She was found lying on her back, naked and grasping a small tree with her right hand, NBC reported. Collier was severely burned on her stomach, according to the Habersham County Sheriffs Offices report. Nurses Debbie Black and Rachel Lee double check a COVID-19 vaccine dose for a child during a vaccine clinic in Hamilton, Massachusetts, on Sept. 9. Iowa reported far fewer coronavirus cases in the week ending Sunday, adding 2,042 new cases. That's down 27.6% from the previous week's tally of 2,821 new cases of the virus that causes COVID-19. Iowa ranked 40th among the states where coronavirus was spreading the fastest on a per-person basis, a USA TODAY Network analysis of Johns Hopkins University data shows. In the latest week coronavirus cases in the United States decreased 19.4% from the week before, with 323,859 cases reported. With 0.95% of the country's population, Iowa had 0.63% of the country's cases in the last week. Across the country, 10 states had more cases in the latest week than they did in the week before. Des Moines County reported 40 cases and two deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported 86 cases and one death. Throughout the pandemic it has reported 10,453 cases and 151 deaths. Henry County reported 23 cases and no deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported 20 cases and no deaths. Throughout the pandemic it has reported 6,177 cases and 78 deaths. Louisa County reported nine cases and no deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported five cases and no deaths. Throughout the pandemic it has reported 2,787 cases and 64 deaths. Henderson County reported seven cases and no deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported 14 cases and no deaths. Throughout the pandemic it has reported 1,414 cases and 19 deaths. Across Iowa, cases fell in 72 counties, with the best declines in Polk County, with 282 cases from 356 a week earlier; in Scott County, with 93 cases from 150; and in Des Moines County, with 40 cases from 86. >> See how your community has fared with recent coronavirus cases Within Iowa, the worst weekly outbreaks on a per-person basis were in Hardin County with 196 cases per 100,000 per week; Wayne County with 171; and Jefferson County with 164. The Centers for Disease Control says high levels of community transmission begin at 100 cases per 100,000 per week. Story continues Adding the most new cases overall were Polk County, with 282 cases; Linn County, with 202 cases; and Johnson County, with 151. Weekly case counts rose in 23 counties from the previous week. The worst increases from the prior week's pace were in Muscatine, Buchanan and Hardin counties. In Iowa, 26 people were reported dead of COVID-19 in the week ending Sunday. In the week before that, 57 people were reported dead. A total of 856,096 people in Iowa have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, and 10,077 people have died from the disease, Johns Hopkins University data shows. In the United States 96,397,885 people have tested positive and 1,059,605 people have died. >> Track coronavirus cases across the United States Iowa's COVID-19 hospital admissions rising USA TODAY analyzed federal hospital data as of Sunday, Oct. 2. Likely COVID patients admitted in the state: Last week: 344 The week before that: 314 Four weeks ago: 412 Likely COVID patients admitted in the nation: Last week: 51,355 The week before that: 53,692 Four weeks ago: 61,434 Hospitals in 17 states reported more COVID-19 patients than a week earlier, while hospitals in 25 states had more COVID-19 patients in intensive-care beds. Hospitals in 17 states admitted more COVID-19 patients in the latest week than a week prior, the USA TODAY analysis of U.S. Health and Human Services data shows. The USA TODAY Network is publishing localized versions of this story on its news sites across the country, generated with data from Johns Hopkins University and the Centers for Disease Control. If you have questions about the data or the story, contact Mike Stucka at mstucka@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on The Hawk Eye: Des Moines County reported 40 additional COVID-19 cases this week Voters in Otero County for the 2022 midterm General Election have choices for how and when they would like to cast their ballot. "Our office is stoked," Otero County Clerk Robyn Holmes said. "We get excited about this time because we're prepping for everything and every day we have deadlines that we have to meet: hiring poll workers, sending out lists to (political) party chairs, notifying the Secretary of State's Office, just getting everything prepared." Absentee in-person voting at the Otero County Administration Building, 1101 New York Avenue, runs from 8 a.m. until 5 pm. Monday through Friday from Oct. 11-Nov. 4 and from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5. A guide to voter rights in New Mexico. What you need to know before you cast a ballot Where are early voting locations in Otero County? Early voting locations and times are: Otero County Fairgrounds , 401 Fairgrounds Road in Alamogordo, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Oct. 22 until Nov. 5 Tuesdays through Saturdays. Inn of the Mountain Gods , 287 Carrizo Canyon Road in Mescalero, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Nov. 2-4. Chaparral Community Center, 427 Ace Ryan Street in Chaparral, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Nov. 3-5. Mobile voting locations are Tularosa Public Safety Facility, 609 St. Francis Drive in Tularosa, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Oct. 22 and Cloudcroft Council Chambers, 201 Burro Avenue in Cloudcroft, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Oct. 29. Midterm elections:First debate highlights stakes in New Mexico race for governor Where are ballot box locations? Otero County has two secure containers which are required by state statute for the county to have. These secure container locations are at Otero Clerk's Office, 1104 North White Sands Boulevard Suite C in Alamogordo and at Tularosa Public Safety Facility, 609 5t. Francis Drive in Tularosa. They open to receive ballots on Oct. 11. These secure container ballot boxes are under 24-hour security, per state statute. Story continues For more information about early/absentee voting or to check your voter registration, visit the Otero County Clerk's Office website at www.co.otero.nm.us/225/Clerk or call the Otero County Clerk's Office at 575-437-4942. More:Congressional report says Otero County was taken in by 'grifters' spreading election misinformation Nicole Maxwell can be contacted by email at nmaxwell@alamogordonews.com, by phone at 575-415-6605 or on Twitter at @nicmaxreporter. If you have questions about your subscription, please contact Customer Service at AlamogordoDailyNews@Gannett.com or call 1-877-301-0013. This article originally appeared on Alamogordo Daily News: Your election guide to early/absentee voting in Otero County, N.M. Election Day is fast approaching. Do you know who you're voting for? All eyes are on Pennsylvania as voters choose a U.S. senator to replace retiring Republican lawmaker Pat Toomey, and the state's new governor. The first general election since new legislative and congressional maps were drawn will also see voters choose who they'll send to Washington and Harrisburg in the new year. To help you make informed decisions at the polls, the Bucks County Courier Times and The Intelligencer sent questionnaires to candidates running in the Pennsylvania election, asking them their stances on issues from abortion and gun control to voting rights and the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. Read on to learn more. Fetterman, Oz square off in contentious Pennsylvania U.S. Senate race Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman and celebrity Dr. Mehmet Oz have been locked in a heated battle for Toomey's seat in the U.S. Senate. Democrat Fetterman has held a lead over Oz in the polls, while the Republican has hammered his opponent for ongoing health issues and his stance on crime. Read on:Your guide to the candidates for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania Voters to choose between Mastriano, Shapiro for Pennsylvania governor Democratic Attorney General Josh Shapiro faces Republican state Sen. Doug Mastriano in the election for Pennsylvania's next governor. The race pits the two-term attorney general, who touts his record on crime and consumer protection, against the state senator from Franklin County, who rose to prominence during COVID shutdowns and has found support in the far right. What the candidates say:Your guide to the candidates for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania In 1st District, Fitzpatrick faces challenge from Ehasz U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Republican from Middletown, is running his third re-election campaign against a challenge from Democrat Ashley Ehasz. Ehasz, a former fighter pilot and Bensalem resident, has taken aim at Fitzpatrick's stances on abortion, while Fitzpatrick has touted his bipartisan record. Story continues FItzpatrick vs. Ehasz:Your guide to the race for U.S. Congress' 1st district Who will represent Bucks, Montgomery counties in the General Assembly? Redistricting has shaken up the Pennsylvania Legislature, and many voters in Bucks and Montgomery counties will see new names on the November ballots either because they're now located in different voting districts, or their current legislator is retiring. Read on:Who you'll be voting for in Pennsylvania House, Senate races in Bucks and Montco What you need to know about voting in the Pennsylvania election Election Day is Nov. 8. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. To check your registration status, or update your address, party affiliation or other information, visit vote.pa.gov. Not registered? You can do so online before Oct. 24, or visit any county voter registration office, county assistance offices; Women, Infants & Children program offices; PennDOT photo and drivers license centers; Armed Forces recruitment centers; county clerk of orphans courts or marriage license offices; area agencies on aging; county mental health and intellectual disabilities offices; student disability services offices of the State System of Higher Education; offices of special education in high schools; and Americans with Disabilities Act-mandated complementary paratransit providers. How do I vote by mail? Despite challenges to Pennsylvania's mail-in ballot expansion, the opportunity to vote by mail still exists. Registered voters can request a mail-in or absentee ballot online. Applications must be received by a voters county election board by 5 p.m. Nov. 1. "On demand" mail ballots also are available at Bucks County election offices in Doylestown, Quakertown and Bristol, or in the Montgomery County Voter Services office in Norristown. If you voted by mail in the last election cycle, in 2021, you need to re-apply for a mail ballot. Completed mail ballots must be received by county election offices by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Postmarks do not count. If taking advantage of a ballot drop-box, note that you can only deposit your own completed ballot. If you're unable to drop off or mail your ballot, you can fill out an authorized designated agent form allowing someone else to do it for you. If you have a mail ballot but decide to vote in person, bring the entire ballot, including security envelope, to the polls. If you don't have the mail ballot but still show up to the polls to vote in person anyway, you'll be able to cast a provisional ballot. But counting your ballot could be delayed until it's determined you didn't also vote by mail. Bucks County announced it would open its first three drop boxes on Monday, Oct. 17. They are: Upper Bucks Government Services Center, 261 California Road, Quakertown. 8 a.m. to 4 :30 p.m. weekdays Lower Bucks Government Services Center, 7321 New Falls Road, Levittown. 8 a.m. to 4 :30 p.m. weekdays County Administration Building, 55 E. Court St., Doylestown. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays These locations will also be open noon to 5 p.m. on Oct. 29 and Nov. 5. "Ballot drop boxes will open in the coming weeks at 11 locations throughout the county, including three boxes at county government buildings opening Oct. 17. Drop boxes will open the week of Oct. 24 at eight libraries located throughout the county," according to a news release. County library locations that open Oct. 24 are: Bensalem Library, 3700 Hulmeville Road. Bristol Borough Hall, 250 Pond St. New Hope Library, 93 W. Ferry St. Northampton Library, 25 Upper Holland Road, Richboro. Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Riegelsville Library, 615 Easton Road. Open until 5 p.m. Warminster Library, 1076 Emma Lane Yardley-Makefield Library, 1080 Edgewood Road Hours vary at the library locations. All drop boxes are supervised by a Board of Elections employee while the boxes are in operation. Ballots are collected from the boxes at least once per day, and returned to the main Board of Elections Office in Doylestown where they remain secured and unopened until 7 a.m. Election Day, officials said. Voters may only return their own ballot unless they have been authorized as a designated agent for another voter. This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Pennsylvania Voters Guide 2022: What you need to know at the polls On this year's ballot are candidates for the Michigan State University Board of Trustees (four major party candidates for two seats). This is a statewide race. Whether you choose to vote absentee or in person, get to know the candidates before you vote by reading their responses to key issues facing Michigan State University. Here (below) are candidates in their own words. To return to the main election package, click here. Meet the candidates Dennis Denno (Democrat): Ive been a staffer for the Michigan legislature for 17 years, I know how legislative bodies work, and I would like to be on the board to give back to my community and have MSU be a better partner in mid-Michigan and beyond. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): Im an ethics professor, lawyer, mom and wife of a proud Spartan graduate. Governor Whitmer appointed me as trustee in 2019, and Ive worked hard to be a champion of change to improve student success, transparency in governance, and campus safety and healing. I urged, and we adopted, a new policy to evaluate presidential performance and a code of ethics for trustees. I worked with the president to replace most of the executive-level administrators from the police chief to the provost, leading the university forward from the Nassar scandal. I hope to continue this work. Learn more at www.TrustJefferson.com. Mike Balow (Republican): I am a community leader, a business leader, and a navy veteran. I believe I am the only candidate with a son or daughter that attends MSU, so I am invested. I have attended every board of trustee meeting for the last two years, and Ive done my research. I understand how the boards works, and I am ready to go on day one. Ive served on a number of boards and understand that to be an effective board member you have to have competence, know the issues, and collaborate while standing for your core principles. Travis Menge (Republican): I am an orthopedic surgeon in Grand Rapids and want to utilize my healthcare background to help shape a bright and successful future for MSU. Currently, there are no members on the board or other candidates with healthcare experience to manage unexpected challenges like the Larry Nassar scandal or COVID pandemic. I will restore and build a foundation of trust at MSU through leadership that is transparent, honest and always puts the safety and well being of our students first. I also want to make high quality education affordable and accessible for all Michigan students. Story continues On trustee responsibilities Dennis Denno (Democrat): The Michigan Constitution gives the board three responsibilities: 1) General supervision of the institution; 2) Control and direction of the institutions funds; and 3) Hire the president. While I believe the board should speak up and be involved if they believe there is a serious problem on campus, I do not believe the board should micromanage the university. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): Trustees provide oversight and governance for the university, including approval of the budget, the hiring/removal of the president, and engagement in discussions about the universitys future plans. The day-to-day management of the university is not typically the responsibility of trustees. Renee Knake Jefferson Mike Balow (Republican): The trustees are elected by the people of the state of Michigan to provide oversight and leadership to MSU, and to ensure that it remains on the right path and provide corrective action when necessary. The trustees should not try to run the university on a day-to-day basis, nor should they completely step back from their responsibility to get involved when necessary. Thoughtful balance is appropriate. If the president breaks the law, or commits ethical violations in personnel decisions, then it is appropriate for the board to intervene. Travis Menge (Republican): The primary responsibilities of a trustee are to provide oversight for the university and ensure the safety and well-being of all students. I do not believe Trustees should be involved with personnel decisions or day-to-day operations at Michigan State. On leadership requirements for MSU president Dennis Denno (Democrat): Someone who is capable of managing a large, complex organization such as MSU, and also is willing to listen to students and employees at MSU and implement the necessary changes to make MSU a safer community for all. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): Any leader of Michigan State University should embrace the highest of ethical standards, with a commitment to shared governance and to shaping a student body, faculty, staff, and administration that reflects the diversity of Michigan. The president should be a visionary, who inspires and supports everyone in the Spartan community to fulfill their roles to the best of their ability. Mike Balow (Republican): The leader of MSU should possess the competency to run a large, public research university, but also the integrity, humility, and communications skills in order to execute the mission of MSU. Missing any one of those qualities will lead to MSU being less than it can and should be. Travis Menge (Republican): It is important that all leaders at Michigan State University demonstrate integrity, accountability, and transparency. Excellent communication and teamwork skills are also crucial in working alongside others to promote the strategic vision and success of the university. On what's most pressing at MSU Dennis Denno (Democrat): The first is safety. I want to listen to our students, employees, and guests and know whether they feel safe at MSU and if not, what is MSU doing to address those serious concerns. The board, like most university boards in Michigan, is not transparent, which is a poor way to manage the university and our tax dollars. I want to see our board be more open to the public. We also need a board that is willing to work towards the best interest of the university and ensure that differences do not put the university in a bad light. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): The most pressing issue facing Michigan State is to be exemplary in all aspects of Title IX. Mike Balow (Republican): First, the lack of faith in the honesty and integrity of the current MSU administration, as embodied by the president, and then certain members of the board of trustees. We need to elect honest, capable trustees so that they can work together to hire the right president. Next, keeping MSU affordable for the working families of Michigan. As a parent of a student at MSU, I can assure voters that I will be sensitive to making every decision with one key question in mind: Does this benefit the student experience at MSU? Travis Menge (Republican): One of the biggest challenges facing Michigan State is the lack of transparency and accountability in leadership. Following the Larry Nassar scandal, we have failed to ensure the safety and well being of our students is a top priority. As Trustee, I will bring a leadership background that is founded on transparency, honesty, integrity, and building back trust within the MSU community. On handling of Title IX cases Dennis Denno (Democrat): It appears that some members of the board have serious concerns with the Office of Institutional Equity and have called for an independent investigation of that office. Ive talked with parents who have kids at MSU and they have expressed concern that when there is an incident at MSU that the university discourages reporting and refuses to update and share information on those investigations. If that is true that is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): MSUs Title IX legacy was, in the Nassar era, a tragic failure. Making MSU a best-practices leader in Title IX has been my priority from the moment I joined the Board of Trustees. Meaningful progress has been made in some areas, and significant work remains to be done, which is why I hope to serve for a full term and continue leading this work. Our obligations under Title IX should be the floor, not the ceiling we can and should do more beyond the requirements of Title IX to serve our students. Mike Balow (Republican): Very poor. The current administration has mishandled Title IX cases, period. I would support an independent investigative arm that reports directly to the trustees, and whose operations are open and transparent, so that members of the public and university personnel should never wonder whether there is another cover up, or whether things are being done properly. I have first-hand knowledge of the administration making misstatements and spin regarding the cut of the MSU swimming and diving program. If the administration cant be relied upon to tell the truth regarding something as simple as that, what else cant we count on? Travis Menge (Republican): Michigan States handling of Title IX cases in the post-Nassar years have failed to make the safety and well being of our students, faculty, and staff a top priority. There has been a lack of resources and support provided to the Office of Institutional Equity (OIE), resulting in high staff turnover, improper management of case load, and unacceptably long response times. As an institution who has continue to struggle with this for years, we need to create an independent ethics and compliance office to improve processes, structure, and compliance. On diversity and inclusion Dennis Denno (Democrat): Encouraging diversity on campus starts with the president and the board to make that a goal and not just lip service. A crucial step is with enrollment and the standards MSU sets for the students applying at MSU. Then it is ensuring that all students have the tools they need to succeed at MSU and that no one is being left behind. Im not looking at a handout but a help-up for those who need it. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): One tangible action is to finally build the long-anticipated multicultural center. We know from MSUs own studies that underrepresented and under-resourced students experience MSUs campus less favorably than white students. We also know MSU students and community members feel that the university has not adequately addressed longstanding issues of bias, inequities, campus climate, and the need for cultural change. The multicultural center will bring together and celebrate diverse Spartan communities and individuals. The Board approved planning in 2021, and it is imperative that the multicultural center be constructed as soon as possible. Mike Balow (Republican): MSU should make it known, through its published policy, that it will not tolerate discrimination of any form and then walk that talk. Ultimately, this falls on the administration to ensure a fair and equitable workplace, and the board of trustees should hold the administration accountable for any of their shortcomings. MSU can always be better when it comes to attracting first generation college students as well. Travis Menge (Republican): I think it is important to improve graduation rates among students at MSU. We have seen graduation rates slowly rise over the past few years, but they are still unacceptably low in minority students and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. As trustee, I will make academic success and improving graduation rates a priority for all students. On COVID-19 response and use of ARPA funds Dennis Denno (Democrat): Encouraging everyone to be safe and sharing information about best practices and whether there is a problem on campus. Providing COVID boosters and the flu vaccine on campus at no cost. I would like to see ARPA funds at MSU be spent on mental health support and education. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): MSUs priority as we emerge from the pandemic should be student success and well-being. ARPA funds should be spent to support MSUs highest-need students, including those impacted by the pandemic and also those from minoritized and marginalized communities. Mike Balow (Republican): It is clear to everyone that life will never be completely as it was in the pre-pandemic days. But we need to realize that COVID is here to stay, much as other types of illness that we have always dealt with. Private medical decisions should remain just that: private. And how students plan to address their treatment to address COVID in their life should be up to them, not MSU or any organizational Board of Trustees. I would support the expenditure of ARPA funds in ways that make MSU more affordable or enhance the student experience. Travis Menge (Republican): According to MSUs Office of Financial Aid, the university has already distributed 100% of the ARPA funds federally mandated for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students ($40,911,660). In addition to student aid, I believe a priority should be the physical, mental, and emotional health of our students. We need to support the continuation of in-person learning - studies have shown it to be far better than virtual learning. I dont agree with the prior actions where students were charged full tuition while not being allowed in the classroom, and instead were at home learning over a computer. Other issues of import Dennis Denno (Democrat): The issues of food security and climate issues are playing a bigger role in our society, MSU can play a major role in both with the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and MSUs extension program. Both do incredible work in research and sharing of information to local communities and MSU needs to strengthen both with more resources and grants. Renee Knake Jefferson (Democrat): Most Michiganders dont realize that MSU extends far beyond the East Lansing campus, with strong academic and research facilities in Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, and across all 83 counties of this great state. I have visited the MSU Extension offices in the Grand Rapids and Detroit areas, and look forward to visiting other offices throughout the state. I use what I learn to be an advocate for their incredible work. If elected for a full term, I will continue my outreach because MSU Extension offices bring vital bring education and economic development to local communities, the state, and the nation. Mike Balow (Republican): Title IX. We need to ensure that men and women are receiving the same opportunity and support when it comes to men's and women's athletics. Regarding the lack of transparency surrounding elimination of MSU's historic swimming and diving program and millions of dollars being spent on court cases, this is a horrible waste of MSU money and resources and its directed against women athletes. Travis Menge (Republican): The MSU Board of Trustees does not have any member, or other current candidate, with a healthcare background. This is extremely important to properly manage unexpected healthcare challenges that face our students and MSU community. The board also needs a healthcare professional to help expand NIH research funding and medical outreach partnerships across Michigan. Lastly, trustees oversee the universitys annual budget. A significant portion of this budget is dedicated to health sciences, medical education, and research; however, nobody on the board has the background to adequately address these key areas. This story was assembled from email questionnaires managed by LSJ news assistants Jayne Higo, Veronica Bolanos and Jack Moreland. Contact them at LSJ-EAs@lsj.com or 517.377.1112. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Election 2022: MSU Board of Trustees candidates in their own words Hampton Roads will see flooding Monday afternoon into Tuesday, but peak tidal heights this afternoon will be about a foot lower than initially projected thanks to sudden a shift in wind direction. The initial forecast from the National Weather Service in Wakefield showed high winds and peak major flooding between 3 and 7 p.m. Monday afternoon throughout much of the region, putting some coastal areas under as much as 3 feet of water. But at 1:30 p.m., the weather service updated projections to show the peak tides would result in moderate flooding, with the only major flooding happening near Lynnhaven Inlet. The area previously expected to see the most significant flooding, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, dropped from a projected tidal height of 6.9 feet to 5.9 feet. Winds shifting to the north-northwest across the bay and more northerly over the ocean cause the change in tide heights, according to the National Weather Service. Ahead of the expected high tides, public schools across the region closed Monday in anticipation for significant flooding and localities declared states of emergency. The projected tidal height dropped from 7.1 feet to 6.1 feet at the Midtown Tunnel and from 6.7 feet to 5.6 feet at Sewells Point. Major flooding is considered anything above 7 feet and 6.5 feet at those points, respectively. Rainy and windy conditions are expected to continue through Tuesday. Maximum wind gusts are still expected to reach 50 mph off the coast of the Eastern Shore in Northampton County. Gusts will peak at 49 mph off the coast of Ocean View and Virginia Beach. Gale force winds will continue through Tuesday, and gale warnings will remain in effect for all waters, the weather service said in its Monday morning forecast. The weather service forecasts an additional 1-3 inches of rain through Wednesday for eastern Virginia and the lower Eastern Shore. The Virginia Department of Transportation advises that motorists limit travel. Anyone who sees flooding, downed trees or other road hazards is encouraged to report them by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or by calling VDOTs 24-hour customer service line 1-800-FOR-ROAD. Story continues Motorists can get updates on local traffic conditions by calling 511 and dialing 9 to get Hampton Roads information, or by visiting www.511virginia.org. To be preemptively rerouted away from flood waters, motorists in Norfolk can use the Waze navigation app. The technology allows users to report flooded roadways but has also incorporated real-time modelling of water levels based on rainfall and tidal flooding to project road closures. The app has allowed the citys emergency staff to have better situational awareness and avoid hazards themselves, according to Kyle Spencer, Norfolks chief resilience officer. We are getting lots of great use out of it, Spencer said in a text. Those who do encounter flooded roadways are encouraged to turn around, dont drown, said Holly Christopher, a spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Transportation. State safety patrols, white trucks with VDOT logos and amber lights, will be patrolling the region on the lookout for people with disabled vehicles. You dont know how deep that water is, you dont know what is in that water and you need to make sure that you can get to your destination safely, so find an alternative route, Christopher said. Christopher said Hampton Roads got really lucky with the weather over the weekend with minimal impact to state-maintained roads and breaks in the downpour that allowed crews to catch up on repairs. Thousands had lost power over the weekend as high winds downed trees and power lines across the region. As of Monday morning, Dominion Energys outage map showed a few scattered outages in Hampton Roads and all of the major outages had been restored. Gavin Stone, 757-712-4806, gavin.stone@virginimedia.com Apr 23, 2022; Delaware, Ohio, USA; JD Vance speaks during a rally with former President Donald Trump at the Delaware County Fairgrounds. Mandatory Credit: Adam Cairns-The Columbus Dispatch What has J.D. Vance's charity really done? I strongly urge everyone to vote no on J.D. Vance for Senate this November. J.D. Vance is a venture capitalist and walking special interest, hes anything but a public servant. Vances non-profit, called Our Ohio Renewal, was founded in 2016 to fight opioid addiction but hasnt really done that, according to non-profit experts like Doug White. Our Ohio Renewal is instead a charade... a superficial way for him (Vance) to say hes helping Ohio. More:J.D. Vance's anti-drug charity enlisted doctor echoing Big Pharma Roughly half of Our Ohio Renewals receipts allegedly have gone to Jai Chabria, who is a political strategist currently advising Vances Senate campaign. This is immoral, and possibly illegal. Some of the funds donated to Our Ohio Renewal may have gone to a political poll to determine if 2018 would be a good year for Vance to run for Senate. Imagine donating money to a charity only to discover that your money actually went to someones political campaign? Our Ohio Renewal even had the gall to hire Dr. Sally Satel as a resident physician, a senior fellow from the American Enterprise Institute with ties to Purdue Pharmaceuticals, the makers of OxyContin. Dr. Satel has repeatedly suggested that addiction is the result of behavior and environment, as opposed to the ingestion of addictive pain pills. OxyContin pills Meanwhile, Purdue Pharmaceuticals just paid out a $6 billion settlement earlier this year to the victims of its aggressive marketing and over-prescription campaigns. Campaigns that resulted in the unnecessary deaths of countless individuals. Tim Ryan (Vances opponent) is a centrist Democrat with a reputation for fighting for American workers in Congress. Ryan is an Independent, more or less, unbeholden to any party boss and/or special interest. Hes got my vote this fall. Jeff Robertson, Yellow Springs Do you value truthful politicians? Do you value truth, honoring ones oaths, belief that the law in the U.S. should cover all walks of life equally, and the belief that voting offers a peaceful transfer of leadership? Story continues More:Letter: Sham trial shows Senate, president are above law If so, ask yourself why vote for a politician (or politicians) that: Jean Gawronski, Powell Letter to the editor Share your thoughts:How to submit a letter to the editor for The Columbus Dispatch Take money out of politics Our number one concern should be electing leaders who put the good of the people ahead of the wishes of the few with lots of money to donate. Until that happens, it will not matter what voters think the important issues are because money decides that for us. More:Special report: 16 donors pour $16 million into Ohio campaigns in past decade When candidates sell their soul to the highest bidder and we keep electing those people, do we deserve what we get? Every problem has a solution but if that solution is not one the people with money want, it does not matter. Environment, poverty, individual rights, crime? There will be no solutions until we elect people who can make policy without being indebted to campaign contributions. More:Money speaks louder than ethics when it comes to climate change |Opinion Who thought it was a good idea to flood the streets with guns? Who thought it was OK for us to support energy policy that is contrary to what scientists tell us we need? Who ignored the housing shortage until it became a crisis? Our first concern should be to take the money out of elections because until that happens, our country is governed by those who can run the biggest con each election and it does not matter what we think. Brenda Chaney, Columbus This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Letters: Voters should know about criticism of J.D. Vance's charity Photo credit: Lordstown Motors Lordstown completes two Endurance electric pickups meant for customers, after years of delays. The company plans to build a batch of 50 pickups by the end of the year, but indicates that completing the rest of a 500-truck batch will be "subject to raising sufficient capital." Apple iPhone maker Foxconn has entered into an agreement to operate the Ohio plant several months ago to build the Endurance pickup, with plans to build future Fisker models. After several eventful years, Lordstown Motors says it has launched series production of the Endurance electric pickup at the Ohio plant that was once a GM factory, completing two pickups intended for customers. That GM factory is now owned and operated by China's Foxconn, better known stateside as the producer of Apple's iPhone, with the electronics giant having bought its way into the EV business earlier this year. Lordstown noted that it has built two pickups this far, with a third "expected to be completed shortly." "These vehicles are part of the first batch of up to 500 saleable vehicles that we intend to build," the company noted. The launch of production is a long-awaited milestone for the company, which has endured a rocky journey to arrive at this point, including plenty of money issues, a political appearance by former VP Mike Pence, and executive reshufflings. Lordstown experienced all this and more prior to the factory's purchase and the signing of an operating agreement with Hon Hai Technology Group, Foxconn's parent company. The launch doesn't alleviate a number of other concerns about the pickup's longer-term viability, however. For one thing, Lordstown still plans to cater to commercial fleet buyers, before opening up production for private individuals. Secondly, the truck is now arriving in a marketplace with several competitors on sale, which was not the case even a year ago. Thirdly, Lordstown and Foxconn are a long way from profitability or volume production for this particular model, even though Foxconn has other plans for this factory with partner Fisker. Finally, the pace of production does not foresee thousands of pickups even by the end of 2023, with the company having to revise its forecast downward several times. Story continues Lordstown indicates that it plans to deliver just 50 units out of the 500-unit batch in 2022, with the rest scheduled to be completed next year, "subject to raising sufficient capital." So the truck is still far from exiting low-volume production, and more money will be needed for it to advance past this 50-unit stage. In addition, Lordstown's pickup has yet to receive an EPA rating, with other types of certification still under way. "We will continue to build at a slow rate as we address remaining part pedigree and part availability issues. We expect to increase the speed of production into November and December," said Edward Hightower, Lordstown CEO and president. "Our homologation and certification processes are proceeding as planned." Gaige Grosskreutz cries as he describes the moments where he was shot by Kyle Rittenhouse during the trial at the Kenosha County Courthouse in Kenosha, Wis., on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021. Mark Hertzberg/Pool Photo via AP Gaige Grosskreutz was shot by Kyle Rittenhouse during a 2020 protest in Wisconsin. Grosskreutz this week filed a secret petition to change his legal name. Rittenhouse was acquitted of homicide after fatally shooting two people and injuring Grosskreutz. A man who was shot by Kyle Rittenhouse during a 2020 protest in Kenosha, Wisconsin, wants to change his name after enduring death threats for two years. Gaige Grosskreutz filed a secret petition to change his legal name on Tuesday, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. In a statement made through his lawyer, Grosskreutz said: "Yes, after two years of death threats from right-wing lunatics I made the difficult decision to change my name for the protection of me and my family." Grosskreutz told CNN in September of 2020 that he and his family members including his 65-year-old grandmother were receiving death threats from supporters of Rittenhouse. "But the real story here isn't that I am seeking to change my name, but that a process that is supposed to protect and shield those in danger was undermined and sealed information was released to the right-wing media within hours of my filing," the statement continued. The Journal reported that Grosskreutz requested an investigation by the Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court after the sealed petition was leaked to the Kenosha County Eye, which published the story on Wednesday. The outlet is run by Kevin Mathewson, who used Facebook to organize a group to protect the city from disorder during the protests, according to The New York Times. Mathewson denied having any contact with Rittenhouse during the unrest in Kenosha, The Times reported. Mathewson told Insider the information did not come from anyone at the Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court's office and said the night he published the story, Grosskreutz's attorney sent him a litigation hold notice asking him to preserve any evidence he may have about the case. "I won't give up my source and I'd probably rather go to jail than give up my source," he said. Story continues Kenosha County prosecutors charged Rittenhouse with two counts of homicide, along with several other crimes. Rittenhouse fatally shot Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and injured Grosskreutz amid civil unrest following the police shooting of Jacob Blake. Rittenhouse pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and was fully acquitted on November 19, 2021, after arguing he acted in self-defense. During the trial, Grosskreutz told the jury he attended the Kenosha protests because he was a trained EMT and paramedic and believed he could provide medical services to anyone injured. Kimberley Motley, Grosskreutz's attorney, has requested records of those who had access to the petition, The Journal reported. Representatives for Grosskreutz and the Milwaukee County Clerk did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment. Read the original article on Insider Matthew McConaughey arrives to the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival premiere of 'White Boy Rick' at Ryerson Theatre on September 7, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. Tara Ziemba/WireImage Matthew McConaughey Matthew McConaughey is looking to give an emerging artist their big break. Speaking to PEOPLE about 101 Bold Nights, a Wild Turkey initiative where he serves as creative director, the How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days star detailed the importance of opening doors for people just like someone did for him once. "I've had people open up doors for me. You can't really do anything for somebody once they're in the door, but if you can help open a door and go, 'The mic is plugged in, you better hit it, better make it happen,' there's some things that they're going to be able to learn from this," he said. In collaboration with Wild Turkey and Spaceflight Records, the 52-year-old actor is helping launch a mentorship program called #101BoldNightsMusicMentorship. Within the program, McConaughey and Spaceflight Records are seeking an emerging musical artist, to whom the record label will offer personalized mentorship. Wild Turkey Launches the Second Annual 101 Bold Nights Program, Benefiting Spaceflight Records and Emerging Music Artists Wild Turkey 101 Bold Nights RELATED: Matthew McConaughey Says His Father Taught Him About Consent: 'He Was Right' "We want to find bands that we go, 'Hey, you know what? This band trusts their spirit,' " he says. "You only get one time for a first impression in so many of these businesses, and it's a tough gig to make it in the music business, obviously. But there's a lot of things that I'm sure musicians, bands that have made it can go, 'Oh, if I'd have known then what I know now, I could have done this differently or better.' " He continues, "That's what we're hoping to let some emerging band know now. And the band that we like, hopefully they're great musicians and great storytellers at the same time." In light of the mentorship program, McConaughey reflected on his time spent in the music industry with reggae artist Mishka in 2009 and his record label J.K. Livin Records. At the time, the actor worked as a producer for Mishka, but eventually stepped away because he "started a family and had other things to manage." Story continues "I know how hard it is for a young band to get in or get heard," McConaughey says. With that, he only wishes to help, as Don Phillips did for him when he helped him land his role in Dazed and Confused. "He gave me a chance to read, got me in the door. Once I was in the door, I did enough to get the job," he says. "And then, he was the guy that once Dazed and Confused came out and I graduated college and drove to Hollywood with $2,000 in my pocket, he's the guy who said, 'You can sleep on my couch,' which I did for months." With the mentorship competition, musicians can enter by posting a video of an original song on their public Instagram account, sharing their story in the caption, mentioning #101BoldNightsMusicMentorship, and tagging @WildTurkey. The competition will end Oct. 19. See the full rules here. RELATED VIDEO: Matthew McConaughey Calls for Change After School Shooting in Texas Hometown: 'We Must Do Better' In addition, Wild Turkey will be hosting a benefit concert on Oct. 8 in Austin, Texas, and all bar proceeds will go to Spaceflight Records. For McConaughey, lending a hand is a lifestyle: "If you're in the giving back business, you got job security for your life." "There's a lot of people that don't get the light shined on them so we're just trying to shine a light on people like that," he says. "And now, live music's back, we're trying to shine a light on a band that hopefully has great musical talent and is also great writers and storytellers and give them a chance to go share their music." "Maybe I'll let them sleep on my couch," he jokes. "[But] I got a few people I got to check in before I say yes to that one." Space is important to us and that's why we're working to bring you top coverage of the industry and Florida launches. Journalism like this takes time and resources. Please support it with a subscription here. --- NASA's SpaceX Crew-5, the next long-duration astronaut mission to the International Space Station, is expected to launch no earlier than 12:00 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Oct. 5, with a backup date on Friday, Oct. 7. Four crewmembers from three international space agencies will embark on a roughly six-month-long mission to the orbital outpost. They will launch aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon Endurance capsule atop a Falcon 9 rocket from pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center. Crew-5 is SpaceX's sixth crewed mission for NASA's Commercial Crew Program and the eighth crewed mission overall for SpaceX. From left are JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Koichi Wakata, mission specialist; NASA astronaut Nicole Mann, mission commander; Roscosmos cosmonaut Anna Kikina, mission specialist; and NASA astronaut Josh Cassada, pilot. SpaceXs Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon spacecraft are scheduled to lift off from Kennedys Launch Complex 39A. This will be the fifth crew rotation mission of SpaceXs human transportation system and its sixth flight with astronauts to the space station for NASAs Commercial Crew Program. Meet the crew members NASA astronauts Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada are joined by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's astronaut Koichi Wakata, and cosmonaut Anna Kikina, from Roscosmos, the Russian space agency. The science mission is a first-time trip to space for Mann, Cassada, and Kikina and the fifth trip for Wakata. It is the first time a Russian cosmonaut will fly aboard a SpaceX mission as part of a crew-swap agreement between NASA and Roscosmos. The other part of the agreement was fulfilled on September 21 when NASA astronaut Frank Rubio launched aboard a Russian Soyuz capsule with two Russian cosmonauts. NASA's Joel Montalbano, manager of the International Space Station program, told reporters on Monday, Sept. 26, Kikina's flight is one-third of the currently planned crew-swap agreements. NASA will send another astronaut to the ISS on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in 2023 and another Russian cosmonaut can be expected to fly with SpaceX in 2024. He told reporters that NASA has had "excellent support from Roscosmos during this last launch campaign. And we expect it to continue." Story continues Before being assigned to SpaceX's Crew-5 mission, Mann and Cassada were originally set to fly to space aboard Boeing's Starliner capsule before that program suffered delays. NASA said in a statement that, "it was important to make these reassignments to allow Boeing time to complete the development of Starliner while continuing plans for astronauts to gain spaceflight experience for the future needs of the agencys missions." NASA Astronaut: Nicole Mann, Crew-5 Commander NASA Astronaut Nicole Mann poses for a portrait before her launch to the International Space Station as part of NASA's SpaceX Crew-5 mission. Mann is from Petaluma, California, and is married with one son. She is a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps and served as a test pilot in the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet. A Naval Academy graduate, Mann was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 2013. Before that, she served in the U.S. Marine Corps, earned her wings of gold as a Naval Aviator in 2003, and attended the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School. She has accumulated more than 2,500 flight hours in 25 types of aircraft. She deployed twice aboard aircraft carriers in support of combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mann will be the first Native American woman to travel to space. She will serve as the Crew-5 mission Commander, the first time a woman will fill that role. During a pre-mission briefing, she said, "I think it's important that young girls realize that they have these leadership opportunities for them. But from an operational perspective, to be honest, it really doesn't matter if you're a woman or a man or what country you're from or your gender or your race." NASA Astronaut: Josh Cassada, Crew-5 Pilot NASA Astronaut Josh Cassada poses for a portrait before his launch to the International Space Station as part of NASA's SpaceX Crew-5 mission. Cassada is the Crew-5 Pilot and is from San Diego, California, He is married with two children. He holds a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Rochester and also serves as a U.S. Navy test pilot. He was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 2013. Before that he graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in 2006 and accumulated more than 4,000 flight hours in over 40 different aircraft, as well as 23 combat missions. During a pre-mission briefing, Cassada said that he has packed a variety of movies from the 1980s to watch while aboard the station and is looking forward to working with "the cold atom lab a really interesting fundamental physics experiment in which we can see quantum mechanics at a macroscopic scale." He also said that he is looking forward to enjoying some Detroit-style pizza as one of his last meals before he takes off for space. JAXA Astronaut: Koichi Wakata, Crew-5 Mission Specialist Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's astronaut Koichi Wakata is from Saitama, Japan. He is married with one child. He holds a doctorate in aerospace engineering and serves as the Senior Advisor and Astronaut for JAXA. He was selected as an astronaut by the National Space Development Agency of Japan, now JAXA, in 1992. The SpaceX Crew-5 mission will be Wakata's fifth spaceflight on which he will serve as a Mission Specialist. He previously flew aboard the space shuttle three times and once on a Russian Soyuz mission. He holds the record for the most time spent in space by a Japanese person with a total of 347 days, eight hours, and 33 minutes as of May 2014. SpaceX Crew-5 Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) poses for a portrait in his Crew Dragon flight suit at SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne, California. When asked about flying aboard Crew Dragon after flying many times on the space shuttle during a pre-mission briefing, he said, "it's a very different spacecraft. Very sophisticated, very automated and it's a very reliable system. And so I think I have to listen to the commander and pilot and work with Anna. Communication is the key." As for what he will do during his off time aboard the station he said, "I'm not an artist or anything but I did bring some origami paper. I hope I can make something in orbit and fly that in the Japanese module." Roscosmos Cosmonaut: Anna Kikina, Crew-5 Mission Specialist Crew-5's second Mission Specialist, Roscosmos cosmonaut Anna Kikina is from Novosibirsk, Russia. She is an engineer and test cosmonaut. Kikina spoke via a translator at a pre-mission briefing in which she said that she was 27 years old in 2012 when Roscosmos cosmonaut selection "was open to everyone equally, even myself." Currently, she is the only woman cosmonaut in active service with Roscosmos. SpaceX Crew-5 Mission Specialist Anna Kikina from Roscosmos poses for a portrait in her Crew Dragon flight suit at SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne, California. Crew-5 will be her first spaceflight. During the briefing, she said that she expects to primarily work alongside her cosmonaut colleagues in the Russian segment of the space station, but expects to collaborate with the astronauts of the other segments during a spacewalk and with controlling the station's robotic arm that is used to capture some visiting spacecraft. She has also brought with her a tiny hand-made figurine toy of a young cartoon character boy called "Gorodovichok" with orange hair that will represent her hometown in Russia. Visit floridatoday.com/space for real-time updates and live video on launch day. For the latest, visit floridatoday.com/launchschedule. Jamie Groh is a space reporter for Florida Today. You can contact her at JGroh@floridatoday.com. Follow her on Twitter at @AlteredJamie. Wednesday, October 5: SpaceX Crew-5 Company / Agency: SpaceX for NASA Rocket: Falcon 9 Location: Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center Launch Time: 12:00 p.m. EDT Trajectory: Northeast Weather: 90% "go" Live coverage: Visit floridatoday.com/space for real-time updates and live video on launch day. About: SpaceX will launch the fifth operational mission under contract by NASA to deliver astronauts to the International Space Station known as Crew-5. Astronauts Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada, Japan's Koichi Wakata, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Anna Kikina will travel to the ISS for a six-month science mission. Nicole Mann NASA Astronaut: Selected in 2013 Mission Designation: Crew-5 Commander From: Petaluma, California Experience: Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps and test pilot with more than 2,500 flight hours Josh Cassada NASA Astronaut: Selected in 2013 Mission Designation: Crew-5 Pilot From: San Diego, California Experience: U.S. Navy test pilot with more than 4,000 flight hours Koichi Wakata JAXA Astronaut: Selected in 1992 Mission Designation: Crew-5 Mission Specialist From: Saitama, Japan Experience: 347 days in space on four spaceflights Anna Kikina Roscosmos Cosmonaut: Selected in 2012 Mission Designation: Crew-5 Mission Specialist From: Novosibirsk, Russia Experience: Russian engineer and test cosmonaut This article originally appeared on Florida Today: NASA's SpaceX Crew-5 will fly astronauts from NASA, Japan, and Russia Ward 3's Barbara Young is pictured Tuesday, April 12, 2022, during an Oklahoma City Council meeting at City Hall. Community members were appointed to Oklahoma City's newly created Human Rights Commission on Tuesday, with a rare appointment of a city council member as her ward's representative. Ward 3 Councilwoman Barbara Young chose to appoint herself as the Ward 3 commissioner, a move city council Chief of Staff Debi Martin said she can't remember being done in her 32 years leading the office. Though Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt said there is no rule against it, Ward 7 Councilwoman Nikki Nice questioned the appointment due to Young's vote against establishing the commission in July. "We have someone who is not even in support of a commission, and now they're being appointed to the commission," Nice said. "Please make that make sense for me." The commission was approved by 5-4 city council vote in July, after nearly two years of research by a mayor-appointed task force on whether the city needed such a commission. The last Human Rights Commission was disbanded in 1996 when city councilmembers disagreed with commissioners trying to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ residents. OKC councilwoman appointed to panel she voted against The Oklahoma City council meeting room at City Hall is pictured Tuesday, April 12, 2022. Young told The Oklahoman she will approach the role as commissioner hoping to ensure timely resolutions for residents experiencing human rights violations. In a July 19 Facebook post, the day of the vote to establish the commission, Young said she believes these violations do still occur in OKC and that "we cannot do nothing." However, she said in the post she voted against the commission because she couldn't support its format. "My concern is that it would delay and potentially prevent our residents from receiving the assistance they need in a timely fashion to resolve a violation," Young said in the post. "There are limitations for how long after an incident a complaint can be filed by state law and adding the city as a layer to an existing process (risks) potentially running out the time." Young did not respond to a request for clarification on specific concerns with the commission, or how it might delay resolutions, by the time of publication. Story continues While Nice said the appointment was "a grave concern," commission Chair Valerie Couch said she looks forward to working with Young. Couch served on the mayor's task force that studied whether a commission was needed, and is dean emeritus at the Oklahoma City University School of Law. "I think I can learn from her about her concerns, and help the whole commission think about those considerations," Couch said. "I think that's an important part of our work, is to have those conversations." When the commission was being considered by the city council, residents in opposition of its establishment said it was an unnecessary form of government overreach. Marsha Herron, who was appointed by Nice as the Ward 7 commissioner, said some of that resistance may come from a lack of understanding. "If it's not been your experience to be mistreated, or if it's not been your experience to live in lack and want ... I think it's difficult to understand what that plight is," Herron said. "I can't speak for other people who didn't want it. All I can do is be self-reflective, and ... even if it's not my experience, do I believe that everybody deserves the opportunity to be heard if they've been afflicted or offended in some way? And the answer is, yes." Commissioners, approved by mayor, intended to be majority minority Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt speaks July 14, 2022, at the State of the City at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. The mayor was tasked by the ordinance to make "reasonable efforts" to ensure a majority of the commissioners, eight of which were appointed by each councilmember, were from racial, religious or other recognized minority groups. Holt said this is the only city commission with individual ward appointments in addition to an overall membership goal. "Frankly," he said via text, "the two things are in opposition When nine different people are selecting nine different commissioners, each in a silo, the mayor's hands are tied in trying to reach an overarching outcome." But he said he was pleased that even with each councilmember working on their own to appoint a commissioner, the commission has representation from Black, Latino, Native, Asian and LGBTQ+ communities. Also, seven of the nine commissioners are women. Maurianna Adams, who served as co-chair of the mayor's task force, said she and other task force members had no say in the appointments and weren't even aware the appointments were being presented to council Tuesday. The first round of commissioners were appointed to two- and three-year terms. In the future, all will be appointed to serve three years. The nine commissioners are: Valerie Couch, at-large member and chair, term expires September 2025 Ralph Crawford, Ward 1, term expires September 2025 Cindy Nguyen, Ward 2, term expires September 2024 Councilwoman Barbara Young, Ward 3, term expires September 2025 Leslie Shaw VanBurskirk, Ward 4, term expires September 2024 Brian Wall, Ward 5, term expires September 2025 Ana Deisy Escalera, Ward 6, term expires September 2024 Marsha Herron, Ward 7, term expires September 2025 Rhonda Hooper, Ward 8, term expires September 2024 What members say the new commission will bring to OKC Herron, Ward 7 commissioner, said she hopes the new commission brings the city's residents together in new ways. The commission, which can address complaints related to employment, housing and public accommodations, will offer more people "a seat at the table" and a chance to have their voices heard, Herron said. The discrimination could be based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, national origin, age, familial status, genetic information or disability. "The hope is that as we look at situations, as we evaluate, we just keep in mind the decency that everybody should be afforded in this life," Herron, who directs Student and Organizational Success for the Oklahoma State School Board Association. "I think you can sleep well at night if you know you had a hand in making sure that everybody was looked after. When it comes to being accountable at the end of my life, that is what I want on my record." In addition to its task of receiving and investigating discrimination complaints, the commission is required to put on at least one annual public education event, "to educate the public regarding human rights concerns." Nguyen, appointed to the commission by Ward 2 Councilperson James Cooper, said it will be important to learn from Oklahoma City's history of excluding certain communities in addition to recognizing there are still excluded and vulnerable residents. "I think the Oklahoma City that some residents get to experience is not the same Oklahoma City that many others do," Nguyen said. The commission also can recommend policies to the city council, recommend the city council conduct studies or surveys, form advisory committees and will submit an annual report of its activities to the council. How the Human Rights Commission will address discrimination Oklahoma City joins Norman, Lawton and Tulsa as Oklahoma cities with human rights commissions. Each receives its authority to address discrimination complaints under the Oklahoma Anti-Discrimination Law, which does not include sexual orientation or gender identity as part of its definition of sex and gender. The task force recommended adding specific protections for LGBTQ+ residents and giving commissions the authority to provide restoration for discrimination victims to the city's state legislative priorities for 2023. The commission cannot handle complaints involving a city official or employee acting in their employee capacity, including police officers. The city soon will seek applications for a paid compliance officer, who will review complaints with a city attorney and determine whether it should be referred to another agency or be investigated by the commission. An investigation can lead either to dismissal of the complaint or an attempt by the commission to conciliate between the complainant and the accused party. If an agreement cannot be reached, or if the Conciliation Order is broken, the compliance officer can choose to refer the case to an outside agency. Couch said she wants residents to know the commission is not a legalistic body seeking to punish anyone. "I think a lot of people think about these commissions almost like courts, where you have a hearing and make a determination," Couch said. "But this ordinance sets up a commission whose power is, in substantial ways, focused on conciliating or mediating disputes." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC human rights panel members appointed with controversy In football, it can be easy to put all of the blame on one singular person. A lot of times fans will voice their displeasure with the coach, but when the offense fails, fans typically go right for the quarterback. This has largely been the truth for Iowa this year, fans in attendance and on social media quick to criticize quarterback Spencer Petras. His job has been called for since the first half against South Dakota State, and that seat certainly has not cooled down after this 27-14 loss to Michigan. While the stats were his best all season, 246 passing yards and a touchdown, the offense still struggled to consistently move the ball when it mattered. Some of those yards are a bit empty. Petras once again had some bad misses on film. Again, it can be easy to start blame with Petras, but today proved to me that his play is not the single root cause for why this offense is so bad. He is just a spoke on the deflated wheel that is Iowas offense. Lets start up front. Have you ever seen an Iowa offensive line manhandled this badly before? Michigan is always going to be a tough opponent, but there were so little holes to be found in the run game. Runners are met by a wall of backs every time a run play is called. This isnt just from today either, the inability to get it done up front has been a massive problem for pretty much the entire season so far. Iowas entire identity is tough rushing alongside their great defense. The problem is, there is no toughness on display from this line at all. Most of the time, youre lucky if they just hold their blocks instead of getting pushed back. This isnt a team that punches you in the mouth, theyre cowering behind their big brother (the defense) hoping they can get their lunch money back. The offensive line is the foundation of Iowas offensive identity. When you dismantle the Hawkeyes up front, everything crumbles down as we are seeing now. Were just seeing major issues compounding upon other offensive problems with the Hawkeyes. The offensive line is struggling in both the run and pass games, and it is pretty much hampering anything the backs are trying to do. There is no run game for Petras to work off of and to get pressure off of his back. Teams are just stacking the box and sending pressure towards the backfield. Add in the receivers not really being the best and it is a horrible environment to try and extract the best out of Petras. Story continues Everything on offense has been a complete failure on all accounts. Nobody has been good enough. However, this complete failure can once again turn into fan backlash at Petras. Every missed throw and missed read is just amplified with Petras right now. Again, he has not been good, but Iowa is also asking way too much from him right now. With everything falling apart, Petras legitimately has to be perfect or those imperfections will stick out badly. Things need to change badly in this offense if Ferentz wants to save this season, nobody else in the Big Ten West seemingly wanting to take the division either. Benching Spencer Petras is not the fix all answer though at all, even if its the well every frustrated fan wants to go to after this loss. No matter who is under center, the problems plaguing the line, the overall talent on the offense, and the man in charge of it all are still there. Related Kirk Ferentz 'encouraged by some of the things I'm seeing' offensively following Michigan loss Related Michigan comfortably tops Iowa, again illustrates gap between Hawkeyes and the Big Ten summit List Report Card: Grading the Iowa Hawkeyes' 27-14 home loss versus No. 4 Michigan List 6 takeaways from Iowa's 27-14 loss at Kinnick versus the Michigan Wolverines Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes, and opinions. Follow Jacob on Twitter: @Jacobkeppen Let us know your thoughts, and comment on this story below. Join the conversation today. Story originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) garnered outrage after he chartered a plane to carry 50 migrants to Marthas Vineyard, Mass., in early September. The move, he argued, was meant to shed light on the crisis states along the southern border face amid an overwhelming number of migrant crossings. But some advocates and lawmakers of color argue these relocations are reminiscent of something more sinister when white supremacist groups bused Black families to the North under false pretenses. In a recent letter to the Department of Homeland Security, Democratic lawmakers led by Rep. Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts said the move was rooted in racism and xenophobia. In 1962, southern White Citizen Councils started Reverse Freedom Rides to remove Black people from their states based on false promises, the letter said, adding that the actions of DeSantis along with those of fellow Republican Govs. Greg Abbott of Texas and Doug Ducey of Arizona are no different. Racism in the United States has a long history in the removal of unwanted racialized individuals, said Jasmine Gonzales Rose, professor of law at Boston University and the chair of policy for the schools Center for Antiracist Research. Racism often manifests as this physical, spatial exclusion of persons from one place to another. Many are familiar with the Freedom Rides of 1961, organized by the Congress of Racial Equity, when an interracial group rode buses into the Deep South. Their goal was to test the Supreme Courts 1960 ruling in Boynton v. Virginia, which declared segregation on interstate bus and rail stations unconstitutional. But the Freedom Riders faced violence from Southerners on these trips, including having at least one bus burned and riders brutally attacked. Southern segregationists responded with the so-called Reverse Freedom Rides. This was an effort for segregationists to send those Black people who they deemed as rabble-rousers or people that were stirring up political activism on the part of African Americans [to the North], said Myisha Eatmon, assistant professor of African and African American studies and history at Harvard University. Story continues It was an effort to remove undesirables people that didnt necessarily fit the ideal of the Southern white societies, she said. Eatmon added that, at the time, white Southerners were incensed by the Supreme Courts decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which ruled segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Many of those angry white Southerners banded together to form White Citizens Councils and began to strategize ways to resist integration. Some towns would form private schools and offer vouchers for white families that wanted their students to attend all white schools, Eatmon explained. The Citizens Councils used intimidation in order to push back against integration there could be economic reprisals, there could be social reprisals. They dont get as much attention as the Ku Klux Klan because of how prominent Klan violence was in the 1920s and 30s, but they [were] a force of folks who didnt want to comply with integration. In 1962, George Singelmann, a segregationist and member of the Greater New Orleans Citizens Council, orchestrated the first Reverse Freedom Ride. Essentially what [the Citizens Council] did was trick African Americans into leaving Southern cities, sending them to the North with the promise of employment, in order to force Northern politicians hand at taking a stance on Black wards of the state, Eatmon said. Families were sent to New York City, Washington, D.C., and other places where the politicians had been vocal about integration and public welfare. The White Citizens Councils also targeted newly returning citizens from incarceration, family households headed by single mothers and families with high numbers of children, added Rose of Boston University. They were individuals who had been targeted because they were vulnerable, living in poverty, trying to support their families and so forth, and who are also enduring racism in the South, she said. Some 200 families were affected by these Reverse Freedom Rides, though Rose said the Citizens Councils initially wanted to relocate up to 2,000 Black families. A spokesperson for Abbotts office vehemently denied the comparisons in a statement to The Hill, adding the migrants they bused were fully aware of which cities they would be relocated to. This is a garbage attempt to deflect from the hypocrisy of Democrat mayors not wanting to fulfill their self-declared sanctuary city promises, said spokeswoman Renae Eze. Where was all this condemnation and outrage as President Biden flew planeloads of migrants across the country, oftentimes in the cover of night? Mayors Adams, Bowser, and Lightfoot were all too happy to tout their sanctuary city statuses until Texas bused a few thousand migrants into their cities. These migrants willingly chose to go to sanctuary cities Washington, D.C., New York City, and Chicago, having signed a voluntary consent waiver available in multiple languages upon boarding that they agreed on the destination, she continued. Instead of pathetic political attacks and complaints about dealing with a fraction of the border crisis Texas communities see every day, these hypocritical Democrats should call on their party leader, President Biden, to do his job and take immediate action to secure the border something the President continues failing to do. Duceys office similarly dismissed the comparison, calling it preposterous. I would encourage all of the lawmakers who signed that letter [led by Pressley] to come to Arizona spend and some time in Yuma; spend with the mayor, county supervisors and others who can tell them the kind of situation theyre facing and have been for a long time as a result of the federal governments inability to deal with the border, said CJ Karamargin, communications director for Ducey. Weve sent 56 busses from Yuma to Washington D.C. and only Washington D.C. On board those buses were 2,003 migrants, all of whom volunteered to get on the bus, none were lured on the bus under false [pretenses.] Despite the criticism, the relocation tactics could prove politically beneficial for the governors. Rose, the Boston University professor, argued that their actions have been a continuation of the rhetoric espoused by former President Trump and embraced by many of his supporters, she said. Donald Trump specifically endorsed these kinds of projects, Rose said. He said, basically, lets send people to sanctuary cities, well give them an unlimited supply. This is something thats really been endorsed by Trump just like when [he] referred to immigrants as bad hombres and rapists and criminals. Its this idea of dehumanizing and scapegoating a racialized, highly vulnerable population in the United States. The moves from Abbott and DeSantis come amid swirling rumors about potential 2024 bids. DeSantis in particular has been the subject of recent White House speculation, with many polls showing him as Republican voters favorite for the nomination after Trump. DeSantiss office did not respond to a request for comment in time for publication. Of course, the Reverse Freedom Rides were not the only time in history that nonwhite Americans have been forced into leaving their homes. Thirty years before Singlemann began his rides, Mexican immigrants and Mexican Americans were targeted by local and state governments. Mexican repatriation in the 1930s was a state-level campaign to put pressure on Mexican migrant workers and Mexican Americans to leave the United States during the Depression era, said Eatmon of Harvard University. I think that its important to bring that into this conversation in part because there is a history of repatriation, of human trafficking of brown people in this country outside of that Black-white binary. Mexican repatriation took place from 1929 to 1936. The U.S. had seen an increase in Mexican migrants during the 1910s and 1920s, many of them entering the country at a time when the U.S. was in desperate need of agricultural workers. But during the Depression, that need dropped sharply, resulting in local and state governments rounding up Mexicans including those born in the U.S. for deportation. State and local governments would put pressure on communities by rounding folks up, said Eatmon. Some of the American citizens that either left willingly or were rounded up in these efforts didnt feel a sense of safety. And I think that speaks to the psychological harm that human trafficking and these types of political stunts has on the actual victim. For many, the Mexican American repatriation and Reverse Freedom Rides are unknown, but Eatmon said its important to learn about these dark moments in American history. If our students understand some of these episodes in American history, they will understand that what were seeing in our current historical moment isnt new, she said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Gov. Tony Evers announced plans on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, to build a youth prison on this proposed site at 7930 W. Clinton Ave., a light industrial area in a district without a Milwaukee Common Council representative. A month and a half after state and local leaders fast-tracked key approvals for a new youth prison in Milwaukee, state officials say the location is "not a done deal" and point to opportunities for nearby residents to weigh in over the coming months. Some residents have said they initially felt blindsided by plans to locate the youth prison near their north side neighborhoods and like their concerns had been sidelined, a situation that state officials hoped to ameliorate through informational meetings with area residents and businesses. State elected and corrections officials held a public meeting with residents last week and have pointed to future city meetings as opportunities to make their voices heard. It is unclear how much sway the residents and their concerns will have. Just a few days after Gov. Tony Evers unveiled plans to put the new youth prison at 7930 W. Clinton Ave., the Common Council held a special meeting during its August recess to give an initial green light to the project. City officials still must approve a zoning change before the project may move forward. "It's not a done deal because there's a lot of work to be done," said state Department of Corrections Secretary Kevin Carr. The new facility will be one of the replacements for Lincoln Hills School for Boys and Copper Lake School for Girls, the state's long-troubled youth prison north of Wausau that state leaders have been working to close since 2018. It was then that legislation detailing a plan for its closure and the construction of new facilities was adopted. In front of a crowd of roughly 150 people at last week's meeting, Carr defended plans to put the new youth prison on Milwaukee's north side, and tried to ease safety and economic concerns voiced by neighboring residents. Supporters of the facility extolled the benefits it could have on Milwaukee County youth and their families, who currently have to travel more than 200 miles to Wisconsin's rural north to visit young people at Lincoln Hills. Story continues Residents opposed to the facility near their homes thought officials should have consulted them before picking the site. "We knew how hard it is to locate a facility in anyone's community. Most people say, 'Not in my backyard,' " Carr said. "We try to do things in the best, most inclusive way possible." Opponents outnumbered supporters at meeting At least 74 people at last week's meeting, which was hosted by state Sen. Lena Taylor, D-Milwaukee, were in opposition to the youth prison being located near them, according to numbers provided by Michelle Bryant, Taylor's chief of staff. The meeting was held at the Abundant Faith Church of Integrity, which borders the Clinton site. "Everything on the north side is going downhill," said Carolyn Allen, who read off a list of businesses, including Northtown Cinema and the Northridge Mall, that had closed in the last 20 years or so. "We have enough problems." Tresha Lovell pointed to the same "decline" and said she didn't believe a youth prison would help to "turn this area around." State lawmakers promised in 2018 to close Lincoln Hills and replace it with smaller, regional facilities around the state. The new facilities have been delayed for years, in part due to underfunding and earlier disputes over where to locate them. When a bipartisan group of lawmakers passed $42 million in funding for a Milwaukee County facility earlier this year, the question became where the youth prison would be located. More: Republicans and Democrats are united on closing Lincoln Hills juvenile prison, but not on who should take credit More: Milwaukee Common Council supports new juvenile prison on the city's northwest side to replace Lincoln Hills Supporters of the new facility who were at last week's meeting included members of Ex-Incarcerated People Organizing, or EXPO, and the Felmers Chaney Advocacy Board, a group of private citizens who worked with corrections officials to identify the Clinton site. Dante Cottingham, who was invited by the meeting organizers to speak, was confined at Lincoln Hills as a young teenager in the 1990s. He went on to spend more than 20 years in prison for a later homicide conviction. It could have been different, he said, if the workers at Lincoln Hills had been able to connect with him and redirect his path. "They didn't have people there that looked like me," said Cottingham, who now works with EXPO and is a peer specialist. "The people that were there, they didn't understand me." Corrections officials hope that by having the facility in Milwaukee, they will be able to hire workers and recruit volunteers who can easily relate to the youth at Lincoln Hills, most of whom are Black and from Milwaukee County. Davina Jones also has a personal connection to the issue. Her nephew was held at Lincoln Hills for three years, and to visit, she had to take a four-hour bus ride to see him for two hours. She supports the new facility because it would mean families could support their children during their rehabilitation. "I keep hearing, 'Not my backyard, not my backyard.' This facility is going to be in somebodys backyard," she said. "This is bigger than each individual person here." Officials say visitors will be vetted, releases will be minimal and done securely Residents at the meeting expressed concerns the facility would make their neighborhoods less safe, bring more crime to the area and become a draw for lawbreakers. Opponents pointed to increases in crime in the area, and wondered whether other neighborhoods, say on the south side, were considered. Beverly Wilson was not necessarily opposed to the facility but had concerns. She was worried about senior citizens like herself who are often the targets of robbery and assaults. "The questions that I have are, are we sure this is going to be a secure facility?" she said. "We don't want anyone hanging around that could possibly cause us harm." Carr, the corrections secretary, said he takes public safety very seriously and pointed out that some prisons across the state, including the maximum-security prison Waupun Correctional Institution, are right next to houses and residential areas. "We make extremely good neighbors," he said. The 32-bed youth facility would be secured, and would be staffed with over 70 correctional officers, said Lance Horozewski, assistant administrator of the DOC Division of Juvenile Corrections. Visitation is done on a scheduled basis, and visitors go through a vetting process, he said. "Not everyone can come and visit you," Horozewski said. Given the facility's small size, releases would not occur often, likely only once or twice per month, he said. When released, young people would either be picked up by their family members or would be taken in a secure way to their next destination, whether that be their home, a group home or another correctional facility, he said. "We're not going to give somebody a bus ticket and then kick them out the door and let them wander around," Carr said. The facility will not look like a typical prison, Carr said. Officials hope to make the facility feel more welcoming and more conducive to the schooling, counseling and other services that will take place there. The issue will go before the City Plan Commission and the Common Council's Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee, and then before the Common Council for a vote on a zoning change. No public hearing has been scheduled yet on the issue before the Plan Commission. Reporters Tom Daykin and Alison Dirr, of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel staff, contributed to this report. Sarah Volpenhein is a reporter who focuses on news of value to underserved communities. Email her at svolpenhei@gannett.com. You can support work like hers through our newsroom's Report for America effort. More information can be found at JSOnline.com/RFA. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee residents blindsided by plans for youth prison air concerns At the State of the University address Monday, MSU President Clif Smart announced a new scholarship to cover tuition and fees for incoming Missouri undergraduates who qualify for a federal Pell grant. Missouri State will cover tuition and fees for in-state undergraduate students who qualify for a federal grant aimed at helping individuals with the greatest financial need access higher education. At the State of the University address Monday, President Clif Smart announced the MoState Access Award a new freshman scholarship available in fall 2023. The award will cover any part of tuition and fees not covered by other scholarships and grants including federal Pell grant. "If you have any level of Pell, you can come here...and we will fund your entire tuition and fees," he said. This year, in-state undergraduate students can expect to pay $8,604 in tuition and fees for a total of 28 credit hours split over the fall and spring semesters. Smart said the new scholarship will be a huge help to students who qualify for a partial Pell grant and possibly the Access Missouri Award of $2,000, which is also based on financial need. "It is a gap-filler scholarship," he said. "It's to fill that gap that's missing for the people who are partially but not fully qualified for Pell." Zora Mulligan, Missouri State Universitys executive vice president, said the university's new scholarship is expected to help students worried about coming up with the rest of the money to go to college. This scholarship will have a monumental positive effect on many students who are making the decision about whether they can afford to attend college or not, she said, in a release. Smart said the MoState Access Award will likely have the biggest impact for students from the Springfield area who can live for home or others who can stay will relatives here. "If you live in Willard or Republic or Rogersville and you're eligible for some level of Pell, you can now go to college without worrying about how you're going to pay for it," he said. Clif Smart, president of Missouri State University, has served in the role since 2011. Each year, up to 30% of incoming freshman students are Pell-eligible. Smart said the university hopes that with the new MoState Access Award available, an extra 50 to 100 Pell-eligible students will enroll annually Story continues To earn the MoState Access Award, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, by Feb. 1. To receive the award, students must be: An incoming freshman or new transfer student. A Missouri resident. A U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Eligible to receive a Pell Grant. Seeking an undergraduate degree. Enrolled full time, which is at least 12 hours a semster. Students who have all tuition and fees covered through Pell, Access Missouri or other traditional scholarships will not receive the MoState Access Award. To keep the award, for up to 10 semesters at Missouri State, the student must: Maintain full-time enrollment. Meet satisfactory academic requirements. Complete 24 MSU credit hours each academic year. Submit a FAFSA by Feb. 1 each year. Remain Pell-eligible. Claudette Riley covers education for the News-Leader. Email her with tips and story ideas and criley@news-leader.com. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri State scholarship to cover tuition for Pell grant students At last weeks Iberseries, Movistar Plus+ Internacional unveiled Natural Law, one of its first forays into third-party acquisitions. Produced by Arquipelago Filmes, it is co-created by Edgar Medina, whose previous series, Sul, received the Portuguese Film Academy Sophia award for best fictional series and the Portuguese Society of Authors award for best fictional program. More from Variety Natural Law originally broadcasted by RTP (Portugal), sees Medina, co-creator Rui Cardos Martins, and director Joao Nuno Pinto weave crime noir with courtroom drama to craft a narrative spanning seven episodes. The series follows the impact of a teenagers murder, as it reverberates throughout a tightknit community. It focuses on a small town judge, Ana, played by Margarida Vila-Nova, also seen in Sul, as she faces a dilemma which threatens her family. The criminal investigation unfolds with detectives Mario and Maria, played by Nuno Lopes and Caterina Wallenstein respectively. The early episodes are steeped with foreboding, as the town comes to terms with the fallout from the crime. The mood is textured by a synth-heavy score from composer Justin Melland and a subdued palette from director Joao Nuno Pinto. The murder investigation is punctuated by small court proceedings of various local cases. The stories of the cases were adapted from best selling book The Defendent May Rise by Rui Cardoso Martins, who is co-creator of the series. Natural Law Rui and I had a very strong dramatic premise as a starting point and our method was to explore to the most its force that was the focus. Noir and Nordic Noir are part of the references of the show but we were inspired by so many other things, Medina told Variety. Story continues With the international successes of crime thrillers, Nordic Noir in particular, carving a niche as a country clearly has benefits. Whether Portugal can introduce audiences to a different flavour of noir that appeals globally is unknown but the genre is in high demand. Audiences are accustomed to the conventions, they find them familiar, and that is a good starting point for a conversation which aims to be as global as possible, said Medina, continuing, Thats a good possible path for Portugueses series to connect with world audiences but I do it without any kind of cynicism. The discovery of a dead body is a great way to start a story but great shows are much more than that. The series represents a concerted push by local platforms such as Movistar Plus+, to compete with Netflix, Apple TV, et al by backing high production value dramas in the most internationally popular genres. With Natural Law, it is clear great care has been taken to deepen the narrative with references to art and philosophy throughout. As storytellers we strive for our stories to be not only entertaining, but help to shed a light on human nature and relations, Medina said Quality trumps most things. Movistar and similar local platforms will hope that by backing local talent to tell compelling stories, with high production values, that they will generate hits at home internationally. But Movistar Plus+ Internacional is now spreading its net from Spain to neighbouring Porrtugal. Natural Law was made with with support funding from ICA, Visit Portugal, Pic Portugal, Lisbon Film Commision, Caldas Da Ranha, and RTP. Edgar Medina Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Located halfway between the coming-of-age nostalgia of Stand by Me and the horror content of well, nearly every other Stephen King-derived movie, Mr. Harrigans Phone ends up too mild on either count to make a memorable impression. Still, John Lee Hancocks adaptation of the same-named novella (which led off Kings 2020 collection If It Bleeds) handles the rather thin source material adeptly enough to make for an entertaining middleweight drama tinged with the supernatural. It premieres on Netflix Oct. 5, getting Halloween month off to a moderately creepy start. Craig (Colin OBrien) is still a child when his mother dies of cancer in 2003, leaving him alone in his Maine small town with an equally bereft father (Joe Tippett). It is a welcome distraction, then, when his Scripture recitals in church attract the attention of Mr. Harrigan (Donald Sutherland), a billionaire financial tycoon whos retired to this nondescript burg in order to spend his twilight years out of the spotlight. His eyes are failing, so he offers Craig a regular after-school gig of reading aloud from literary classics starting, rather inappropriately, with Lady Chatterleys Lover, but soon embracing Dickens, Conrad, Dostoevsky and so forth. More from Variety That arrangement suits both parties fine, and while Mr. H. is a reserved, old-school gent, they soon enjoy one anothers company. The older man is fond of including lottery tickets with holiday cards; when Craig (now a teen played by Jaeden Martell) scores a $3,000 win, as thanks he gifts his benefactor an iPhone such as he himself has recently gotten. It is politely declined by the Luddite recipient till he realizes he can get stock tips a lot faster online than by waiting for yesterdays Wall Street Journal to arrive. Not long after, Harrigan dies of natural causes. As a sentimental gesture toward the bond between them, Craig slips that phone into the open casket at the funeral service. Story continues Until this point, theres really been no otherworldly aspect to the story, a lack Hancock tries to work around by applying some basic, superfluous Gothic atmospherics, as well as ominous notes from Javier Navarretes score. Sutherland is directed to play his role somewhat more imperiously than its drawn in the book, and a montage of newspaper clippings suggests Mr. H. could be a fierce, even malicious foe when crossed during his career heyday. Nonetheless, he isnt much as a figure of fear. So its not terribly spooky when Craig using his late mentor as an imagined voicemail confidant gets the occasional cryptic response on his own cell. Dad dismisses the phenomenon as a prank by someone whos hacked the old mans phone. However, when our protagonist suffers abuse at the hands of a school bully (Cyrus Arnold), then grievous harm befalls a beloved teacher, Craig angrily calls upon his late friend and lethal justice is promptly, mysteriously delivered. Kings tale feels stretched thin even at its original 90 pages, coming off as an extended anecdote sans much weight. Its also weakened by a narrators voice that sounds an awful lot like a boomer author rather than a 21st-century youth, particularly in the emphasis on Gee whiz, the technology these days!! stuff. Apart from a stretch that feels too much like an Apple commercial promoting the joys of a younger generation introducing grandfatherly oldsters to them intrawebs Hancock manages to downplay those elements with some finesse. But he remains faithful enough that the film never really builds much suspense or mystery. Sutherland does not reappear as a senior variation on his ghoul at the end of Philip Kaufmans great Invasion of the Body Snatchers version 44 years ago. However, whatever his character is capable of from the grave remains murky and not especially interesting, given that the victims are certifiable Bad Guys who deserve it, their fates mostly kept off-screen. Nor is Craigs remorse after each demise very compelling no more so than his pleasant if blandly sketched relationships with Dad, a first girlfriend (Thalia Torio) or a supportive high school instructor (Kirby Howell-Baptiste). The results, balancing overfamiliar warm-and-fuzzy growing-up saga and halfhearted horror revenge tale, evaporate quickly from the mind theres little cumulative force that might linger. Yet at the same time, Hancock does an admirable job keeping this hour and three-quarters polished and engaging, maintaining consistent viewer interest even if the ultimate reward underwhelms. Eschewing any flamboyant turns, his well-cast actors lend their characters low-key naturalism including a primarily sedentary Sutherland and that hulking bully while the presentation is handsome in a straightforward, non-flashy way. If at first glance Mr. Harrigans manse exterior strikes a retro-sinister Olde Dark House note, production designer Michael Corenbliths interiors nonetheless impress with the old guys excellent taste. DP John Schwartzmans imagery makes good use of attractive locations, though it appears upstate New York and Connecticut are standing in for Maine here. Best known for liberally dramatized inspirational biopics (The Bright Side, The Rookie, Saving Mr. Banks), writer-director Hancock demonstrates no particular feel for thriller mechanics though Mr. Harrigans Phone still works better within that general framework than his ponderous serial-killer police procedural The Little Things from last year. This latest may not rank among the best screen Stephen King adaptations, but God knows its nowhere near the worst. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. NATPE, which has convened annual gatherings of producers, syndicators, station owners and other TV stakeholders for decades, has decided to file for bankruptcy. The organization cited the impact of Covid and said it planned to continue holding events, including its annual January conference, which is shifting to the Bahamas from its longtime Miami base. The official Chapter 11 filing is expected to happen Tuesday, but todays announcement is intended to give the industry and attendees advance warning. Seeking a formal remedy through the legal system is seen as the best way the organization can reorganize its operations. More from Deadline The pandemic prevented NATPE from holding events, which typically generate significant revenue, a press release said. These cancellations forced NATPE to operate on its financial reserves, which now require it to reorganize the NATPE business structure. In June, NATPE held its first in-person marketplace in two years at the Intercontinental Hotel in Budapest, Hungary. Due to the Omicron wave last winter, the group had to cancel its 2022 conference in Miami at the 11th hour, following the more predictable decision to go dark in 2021 at a time when most large-scale events (though, notably, not in the state of Florida) were still in limbo. Earlier this year, NATPE announced that its main event for Stateside attendees would be moving to the Baha Mar Resort in Nassau, Bahamas, in January 2023, and a return to Budapest is slated for June 2023. Both events next year are due to remain on the books during the bankruptcy process. As to the nature of restructuring, NATPE said it is looking at all possible options. Possibilities could include raising funds through strategic alliances as well as continuing to operate NATPE as a more streamlined and reorganized operation. While no executives were quoted in the press release, it said NATPE was optimistic about its prospects of emerging from bankruptcy in a more fortified position in the industry. Story continues NATPE, short for the National Association of Television Program Executives, traces its roots almost to the advent of the medium. In the three-network era, the group gained prominence by creating common ground for various constituents to conduct business and exhibit their wares. In the 1980s and 90s, as the syndication business reached its peak, NATPE came to symbolize the excesses of the era, as suddenly ascendant producers like King World found a setting where they could spend some of their windfalls. The company, which syndicated ratings powerhouses like The Oprah Winfrey Show and Wheel of Fortune before an eventual sale to CBS, rented out the Louisiana Superdome one year when NATPE was taking place in New Orleans, hosting a party for thousands. In more recent years, NATPE became a more scaled-down and diversified affair, but its main U.S. event in Miami defied expectations that it might follow the downward trajectory of the syndication and local TV sectors toward obsolescence. The streaming boom instead offered a new piece of entertainment real estate to explore, and a satellite event focused on streaming that launched in LA several years ago has expanded the footprint. By putting down roots in Miami more than a decade ago, NATPE settled into a more coherent pattern and used that location to expand the role of international buyers and sellers, especially Latin American companies. While the go-go days of NATPEs past have stayed in the past, the event found a degree of stability until the Covid curtain fell in early 2020. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. ORCAS, HUMPBACKS CLASH IN TENSE ENCOUNTER Mollie Naccarato, Sooke Coastal Explorations, PWWA Crew members with the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) observed a rare, aggressive confrontation between a group of Bigg's orca whales and a pair of humpback whales spotted in the waters near the western Canada-U.S. border. On Sept. 29, crew members on an Eagle Wing Tours whale-watching boat encountered the orcas first. The boat discovered around 15 orca whales "being unusually active at the surface," according to a PWWA press release. Another whale-watching boat discovered two humpback whales interacting with the orcas shortly afterward, the association added. "According to observers who came and went throughout the day, the encounter included an astonishing three hours of breaching, tail-slapping, and loud vocalizations before all of the whales disappeared into the fog, keeping the outcome of the melee a mystery," the PWWA said in its release. RELATED: 230 Pilot Whales Found Stranded on Australian Harbor Half Are Still Alive and Awaiting Rescue The encounter happened in the Juan de Fuca Strait, about 25 miles west of Victoria, British Columbia in Canada, and Port Angeles, Washington, according to the PWWA. The association's executive director, Erin Gless, told the CBC that while it's "very common" for their boats to encounter both species of whales, spotting groups of both engaged "in the middle of a brawl" is much rarer. ORCAS, HUMPBACKS CLASH IN TENSE ENCOUNTER Mollie Naccarato, Sooke Coastal Explorations, PWWA "I'm still trying to wrap my head around it because it was absolutely unbelievable," Mollie Naccarato, a captain and naturalist with Sooke Coastal Explorations on Canada's Vancouver Island, told the CBC. 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. "At first, the orcas seemed to be chasing the humpbacks," she said. "But then when there was space between them, the humpbacks would go back toward the orcas." Story continues Naturalists with the PWWA identified some of the orca whales involved in the scuffle and the two humpbacks, who they know as BCX1948 "Reaper" and BCY1000 "Hydra," according to a statement. Gless told the CBC that the orca whales could be seen circling the two humpbacks and nipping at their flippers and tails. RELATED: Humpback Whales Share Songs Between Pods in the Pacific Ocean, According to New Research The orcas involved in the encounter often hunt marine mammals like seals, sea lions, and porpoises, and occasionally larger prey like humpback whales. ORCAS, HUMPBACKS CLASH IN TENSE ENCOUNTER Mollie Naccarato, Sooke Coastal Explorations, PWWA The PWWA stated that while the association "has not documented any fatal orca attacks on humpback whales in the Salish Sea," increases in both species' populations in the area could lead to more frequent confrontations. "Orcas are the only natural predator that humpback whales have in this region," Gless told the CBC. "Even though humpback whales can get to be the size of a school bus, a group of very experienced hunters can attack [them]." Whale-watching boats in the area are hopeful they will encounter the two humpbacks again before the animals swim south for their annual winter migration, the association wrote in its release. The orca whales involved in the encounter do not migrate and can be seen in the area year-round, according to the PWWA. An officer from the Denver Police Fugitive Unit has been shot and transported to a local hospital, the Broomfield Police said Thursday afternoon. Coffee Creek Correctional Institution in Wilsonville is Oregon's only women's prison. After near unanimous support in the Legislature sent Senate Joint Resolution 10 to the ballot, Oregon will join at least four other states in voting this November on state constitutional amendments prohibiting slavery and involuntary servitude. If voters pass Measure 112, Section 34 of the Oregon Bill of Rights would be amended to prohibit slavery or involuntary servitude without exception. The constitution currently reads: "There shall be neither slavery, nor involuntary servitude in the State, otherwise than as a punishment for crime, whereof the party shall have been duly convicted." It is one of the most significant and least understood civil rights issues in Oregon and the United States, Craig Berkman told Oregon lawmakers during public hearings about the measure. Berkman is a former federal inmate and CEO of the Free at Last Coalition. Midterms in Utah: The basic governing documents of the U.S. in 21 states continue to provide the legal justification for slavery, Berkman said during testimony. The time has come to bring an end to Americas original sin. It is time for our generation to help bring healing and reconciliation to Oregon and our nation. Dehumanizing legacy The 13th Amendment outlawed slavery in the United States more than 150 years ago. But embedded in the text is an exception that allows people convicted of crimes to be subjected to involuntary servitude. Similar language remains in state documents. Colorado ended its own exception to slavery in 2018. Utah and Nebraska removed the language in 2020. On Juneteenth, Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA) introduced a proposal to revise the 13th Amendment and remove the punishment exception at a federal level. Tacuma Jackson was sentenced to 34 years in prison by a non-unanimous jury at the age of 26. He was granted clemency by Gov. Kate Brown after 21 years. Story continues Prison literacy: Many Oregon prisoners aren't being taught to read While incarcerated, he was an executive member of the Uhuru Sasa Culture Club, a Black cultural club, in the Oregon State Penitentiary. He spoke to legislators during public hearings about the importance of changing the state constitution language. Jackson said he has watched "important men and women in positions of power and prominence" advocate for "and sometime pass legislation meant to help people of color" while the word slavery remained present in the constitution. "A person can't claim to be an advocate of equal rights, equal justice, no matter the party line, while this language is ever-present in our constitution," Jackson said. "My grandmother, my mother, my daughter can still see and feel the shackles. And even though I know we have a long journey ahead of us in rebuilding our trust and hope in a country we have come to love, removing this language begins a healing process that is long overdue. Anthony Pickens, president of the Uhuru SaSa Cultural Club, also submitted testimony. Now 38, Pickens has been incarcerated since he was 15. "I spent more time in prison than I have a free person in society, so my perspective is first-hand while speaking on this issue," Pickens wrote. The country has made a lot of progress on many levels but holds on to a language in its Constitution "that is out of date and downright degrading," he added. He wrote of his stepdaughter joining the effort to pass Measure 112: What was gut-wrenching to me is when I had to explain this outdated language to my 11-year-old daughter, Jordynn Conner. In the America she is growing up in and knows, she could not bear hearing that the 13th Amendment and the Oregon constitution consider her stepfather a slave. Her words to me were, 'Daddy, youre a human being, not a slave.' It was then that she was determined to fight for the language to be removed from Oregons constitution because she knew that no human should ever be considered a slave. Educating Oregonians Work to pass Measure 112 was spearheaded by Oregonians Against Slavery and Involuntary Servitude, which is made up of Willamette University alumni and incarcerated people. It has since ballooned to include the support of more than 100 different nonprofits and businesses. Troy Ramsey joined the campaign to pass Measure 112 after the question was sent to voters during the legislative session. Ramsey was incarcerated for several years. "I had known for a long time that it was still in the constitution, but a lot of people do not know," Ramsey said during an interview with the Statesman Journal. He said he spends most of his day talking to everyone he meets about the measure, asking them if they are aware slavery and servitude are still in the state constitution. The answer is overwhelmingly "No," he said. "That's the sad part about this," Ramsey said. "They know it's in the United States Constitution, but they couldn't believe it's in the Oregon constitution." Ramsey is optimistic Oregon voters will overwhelmingly support the amendment if they learn about the measure. Campaign director for Measure 112 Angela Martin echoed Ramsey. "This is something most folks weren't paying attention to but the moment that they're made aware they come around and say wholeheartedly, 'Yes, it's time that we update this document,'" Martin said. No direct opposition to Measure 112 has emerged, although the Oregon Department of Corrections did submit written testimony to the Oregon Legislature expressing concerns about legal uncertainty that could be caused by the measure. Specifically, they were concerned about conflict with removing the prison labor exception while keeping language in the constitution that requires work and training for inmates. Section 1, Article 41 of the Oregon constitution requires the Department of Corrections to engage all inmates in work or on-the-job training programs. State law does currently authorize compensation for inmates who work, although they are not typically paid anywhere close to the required minimum wage for someone who isn't incarcerated. According to a 2022 report from the American Civil Liberties Union, Oregon inmates are often compensated not with wages but with points they can then convert into a monthly monetary reward. "The courts through litigation could determine that (adults in custody) must be treated similarly to state employees with respect to minimum wage and hour laws, and other benefits," wrote Rob Persson, assistant director for operations. Courts in Colorado are currently navigating that same question. At least two lawsuits have been filed alleging that forced labor in the state violates the 2018 anti-slavery law. One lawsuit was dismissed in August while a class action lawsuit was filed in February. A resolution introduced during the 2022 legislative session to let Oregon voters also decide on repealing the provision requiring inmates in corrections institutions to engage in full-time work or on-the-job training failed to pass the Legislature. 'Dixie' no more: Utah Legislature votes to change Dixie State University's name to Utah Tech Measure 112 would add a line to the state constitution clarifying that courts, probation and parole agencies may continue to require convicted individuals to engage in alternatives to incarceration such as community service, education, counseling and treatment programs. Ramsey said Measure 112 is only about changing the language, not about affecting the Oregon Department of Corrections. "The only thing that it does is take the language out of the constitution. And it makes us stand with Colorado, Utah, Nebraska and hopefully Alabama, Tennessee and Vermont along the way," Ramsey said. Dianne Lugo covers equity and social justice issues for the Statesman Journal. Reach her at dlugo@gannett.com or on Twitter @DianneLugo This article originally appeared on St. George Spectrum & Daily News: Oregon voters to decide on removing slavery from constitution Paris Jackson is taking the granny chic trend to a whole new level at Paris Fashion Week. The famous daughter of Michael Jackson turned heads at the Stella McCartney Spring/Summer 2023 fashion show in France while wearing a floral crocheted sweater dress with distressed yarn strands hanging artfully from the mini number. More from SheKnows The model and actress shared an Instagram Reel showing off her playful personality and fun fashion week look. She paired camel-colored, calf-length wedge booties and a sparkling burgundy purse with her multi-colored distressed dress, matching her edgy winged eyeshadow to the emerald green in her outfit. Her blonde tresses were piled atop her head in an effortlessly chic messy bun that added the perfect touch to her eclectic ensemble. Jackson has made a few other fashion week appearances this year, including attending Givenchys Paris Fashion Week event in a gothic little black dress, walking in the Philip Plein Spring/Summer 2023 fashion show for Milan Fashion Week, and sitting front row in a stunning sheer dress at the Missoni Spring/Summer 2023 fashion show in Italy. Click here to read the full article. The American Horror Story alum is known for her eclectic style, which breaks conventional fashion norms in an artistic, whimsical, edgy manner. Shes previously spoken about drawing inspiration from different decades, mixing various styles and periods together to create her own unique look. I have had the same style since high school: a combination of Sixties, Seventies and Nineties, Jackson told Luisaviaroma in an interview this year. I love a good bellbottom, Earth tones, Doc Martens, ripped leggings, and band T-shirts for day-to-day. Its boho grunge. The pandemic wasnt a wardrobe fail for her, either. I wear PJs and sweats most of the time. I love being comfortable. Story continues Fashion houses clearly cant get enough of her original vibe, with Jackson taking Europes fashion week events by storm. We cant wait to see her steal the show once again in her next fashion endeavor. Before you go, click here to see all of the celebrity moms who went to Fashion Week in 2022: Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Billie Beatrice Dane and Rebecca Gayheart-Dane attend the 20th Anniversary Chrysalis Butterfly Ball at Private Residence on October 01, 2022 in Brentwood, California. Rich Polk/Getty Rebecca Gayheart enjoyed a special mother-daughter night out this weekend! On Saturday, the actress attended the 2022 Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in Brentwood, California, where her 12-year-old daughter Billie made a rare appearance alongside her mom. The pair posed together on the red carpet, both wearing black outfits for the night out. Billie looked all grown up in a mini dress with a black polka dot overlay and heels. Gayheart sported a velvet one-shoulder jumpsuit with a pair of black sandal heels. Gayheart, who served as co-chair at the event, also shares daughter Georgia, 10, with estranged husband Eric Dane. 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. RELATED: Exes Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart Take Kids on Family Vacation See the Photos! Last month, the actress, who filed for divorce from Dane in 2018, citing irreconcilable differences, shared a series of photos on Instagram documenting her time in France with Dane and their girls. "This is us , family vacay 2022 #familia #travel #goodtimes #moretocome #eurodanes," she captioned a photo of Dane, 49, doing a silly pose in the street while Billie looked chic walking behind him. In a snap posted on her Instagram Story, Gayheart, 51, called Billie and her dad "twins" as they posed next to each other. Another shot showed Georgia walking through an alley while wearing a New York sweatshirt and plaid skirt. Gayheart added a sticker reading "my baby" alongside the picture. The family later joined other friends for a pizza dinner and spent time at the beach, where Gayheart said Billie was "living her best life." Speaking to PEOPLE in 2019 at the premiere of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Gayheart opened up about her relationship with Dane as they co-parent their daughters. "There's a new normal for me and my family, as you know. And it's taken us a little bit to get that down," she shared. "Not going to lie, it hasn't been easy. But I think what's exciting is what's ahead because there are so many different things that could happen now. I mean, we have so many options, and the good news is my kids are happy and healthy." "My ex Eric and I, we are friends and we are doing our best to co-parent and maintain a family, even though we're not married. Legally we're still married, but separated," she said at the time. "And I think we're doing a pretty good job of it. Life is just good. There are so many exciting things happening." Ringo Starr has decided to cancel the rest of his tour, citing a second positive Covid-19 test. He had canceled other shows when he tested positive, but a subsequent negative test saw him renew his commitment to performing the dates. The 82-year-old did not indicate if any makeup dates would be planned when he fully recovers More from Deadline EARLIER: Ringo Starr has tested positive for Covid, a day after the former Beatle was forced to postpone a concert in Minnesota because of illness. Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band were forced to cancel their recent shows due to illness, the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, which was to host Starrs next concert, tweeted Monday. It has been confirmed today that Ringo has Covid and the tour will be on hold while Ringo recuperates. Starr, who is 82, is in the middle of a North American tour with his All-Starr Band, featuring a rotating group of musicians. The current incarnation features Totos Steve Lukather, Men at Works Colin Hay, Edgar Winter, the Average White Bands Hamish Stewart, drummer Gregg Bissonette and Kansas Warren Ham. Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band were forced to cancel their recent shows due to illness. It has been confirmed today that Ringo has Covid and the tour will be on hold while Ringo recuperates. As of today the Canada Life Centre show on October 4 has been canceled. pic.twitter.com/8Kvap9EQQW Canada Life Centre (@CanadaLifeCtr) October 3, 2022 The tour has five Canadian dates scheduled through Sunday that was to begin Tuesday in Winnipeg before kicking off a U.S. leg October 11 in Seattle. Canada Life Centre was still selling tickets via Ticketmaster as news of Starrs test result was confirmed. Story continues On Sunday, the bands planned venue, Mystic Lake Casino in Prior Lake, MN, tweeted the news of Starr having to postpone but noted the Grammy winner didnt have Covid. Ringo is sick and was hoping to be able to perform, hence the late notice. But it has affected his voice. Ringo does not have COVID-19, the casino tweeted. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. The post The Story Behind Metrics Breakout Hit Help Im Alive appeared first on Consequence. Listen via Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RSS Metric are an enigmatic, shape-shifting band always has been, always will be. Born out of Canada in 2001, they have built a discography that now spans eight studio albums that are difficult to box into any one genre (or two, for that matter). Part indie rock, part pop punk, part dance, part electronic why even try to put a label on it? The point is that it all works. At the center of it all is Emily Haines, who sings, writes songs, and plays synths and other instruments. Haines rocks it effortlessly with authenticity, energy, and swagger, despite confessing to suffering from deep bouts of stage fright. Its actually a topic she addressed on Metrics breakout single Help Im Alive, with its thumping beats and searing lyrics like, I tremble, I tremble/ Theyre gonna eat me alive/ If I stumble. And how did she overcome those fears? A mannequin came to her rescue at a random show in Santa Monica, California, in a story of Metric lore Haines discusses on this new episode of The Story Behind the Song. Haines joins host Peter Csathy to share this story behind Help Im Alive, the deeply personal and confessional song from Metrics fourth album, 2008s Fantasies. Its an album and a song that essentially saved the band, as they had serious doubts about whether or not they could continue. Also on this episode, Haines discusses the dark but euphoric Doomscroller, the 10-minute track that kicks off Metrics latest album, Formentera. Listen the the latest episode of The Story Behind the Song above, or watch the full discussion via the video player below. This is the first of a trio of Halloween-themed bonus episodes coming this month on TSBTS, with future episodes centered on Blue Oyster Cults (Dont Fear) The Reaper (October 17th) and Danny Elfman discussing Oingo Boingos Dead Mans Party (October 31st). So, make sure to like, review, and subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts to be alerted when each new episode drops. Story continues You can also keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Twitter @pcsathy and at Creative Media. The Story Behind Metrics Breakout Hit Help Im Alive Peter Csathy Popular Posts Subscribe to Consequences email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox. Photo credit: Netflix Content warning: This article contains references to murder and sexual assault some may find upsetting. Reader discretion is advised. With Conversations With a Killer: The Jeffrey Dahmer Tapes on its way to Netflix after the streamer found controversial success with the scripted limited series, DAHMER - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, true crime fans are avidly searching for answers to Jeffrey Dahmer's terrifying actions. The notorious serial killer was convicted of 15 murder charges for murdering 17 Black, Latino, and Asian men from 1978 to 1991, which resulted in him serving 957 years in prison. Dahmer's time at the Columbia Correctional Facility in Wisconsin led him to his death in 1994 after another inmate, Christopher Scarver, beat him to death. Here are all the details we know about Christopher Scarver and his whereabouts. Why is Christopher Scarver in prison? In 1990, Christopher Scarver was sentenced to life in prison after shooting Steven Lohman, a worker at Wisconsin Conservation Corps, three times. Per The Tab, Scarver began hearing voices that deemed him "the chosen one" after he was fired from his job at the company Lohman also worked at. Scarver then demanded money from a site manager and was only given $15, which prompted him to kill Lohman. Photo credit: Netflix Why did Christopher Scarver kill Jeffrey Dahmer? While cleaning the prison gym on November 28, 1994, Christopher Scarver killed his fellow inmates, Jesse Anderson and Jeffrey Dahmer while they were unsupervised for 20 minutes, per The Independent. Scarver, played by Furly Mac in Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, beat Dahmer to death with a weight bar before also killing Anderson. According to a 2015 interview with the New York Post, Scarver attacked Dahmer because the cannibalistic serial killer would taunt other inmates by "fashion[ing] severed limbs out of prison food" and drizzle on ketchup as blood. "He would put them in places where people would be," Scarver, who was 45 at the time, told the outlet. "He crossed the line with some people prisoners, prison staff. Some people who are in prison are repentant but he was not one of them." Story continues Is Christopher Scarver still alive? Christopher is still alive and imprisoned at the Centennial Correctional Facility in Colorado after he was given two additional life sentences for killing Dahmer. In 2015, he began writing and publishing poetry books while he was still in jail. Per PopBuzz, he also has a 27-year-old son who was born before he was imprisoned. The outlet claims that Scarver and his son were once estranged, but currently maintain a relationship by writing each other letters. You Might Also Like After months of speculation, Apple TV+ has officially revealed that Will Smith's King Richard follow-up, Emancipation, will enter the awards race. The streaming service released the first trailer for Antoine Fuqua's period drama, along with the announcement that the film will play in theaters on Dec. 2 and will start streaming on Dec. 9. That will be almost nine months after Smith shocked the world by slapping Chris Rock onstage at the 94th Academy Awards, an incident that continues to reverberate today. (Watch the Emancipation trailer above.) Set during the Civil War, Fuqua's film tells the story of Peter (Smith) an escaped slave-turned-Union Army soldier who is immortalized in 19th century pictures that reveal the scars on his back from a brutal whipping. The trailer shows Peter's desperate journey North to join Union forces, avoiding death in the Deep South swamps or capture at the hands of slave hunters, led by Ben Foster. "There are many ways to die here," Smith is heard saying. "I will not be afraid." Will Smith stars in Antoine Fuqua's latest film Emancipation, which Apple TV+ will be releasing in December. (Photo: Apple TV+/YouTube) For Apple TV+ the fear is that audiences and awards voters will object to the choice to release another Will Smith star vehicle after the last Oscars. While the actor remained at the ceremony to accept his Best Actor trophy for King Richard, he subsequently resigned from the Academy, which later voted to ban him from the Oscars and other Academy events for 10 years. (He is still eligible for nominations, though.) Apple made the decision to release Emancipation days after the film's first public screening at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations 51st Annual Legislative Conference held in Washington D.C. Both Smith and Fuqua attended the screening and took part in a post-screening conversation. "Throughout my career, Ive turned down many films that were set in slavery," remarked Smith, who famously turned down the chance to star in Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained. "I never wanted to show us like that. And then this picture came along. And this is not a film about slavery. This is a film about freedom. This is a film about resilience. This is a film about faith." Story continues Reaction to Emancipation at that screening was largely positive, which no doubt played a role in Apple's choice to put the film in awards contention. On Twitter, people are already taking sides about whether or not Smith will be welcomed back into the Oscar race. I am so looking forward to #Emancipation launching on @AppleTVPlus I think we should all move on from #slapgate and forgive #WillSmith its done he knows hes done huge wrong and hes lost financially for it as well. Its expected to be another Oscar winning performance https://t.co/VaCWvYp167 Sahil Mohan Gupta (@DigitallyBones) October 3, 2022 Big news! EMANCIPATION coming this December and a new player enters late in the Oscar race. Will be interesting to see how Apple navigates the whole Will Smith situation. Teaser trailer was solid and I am glad they are going ahead with the release instead of shelving it. pic.twitter.com/oZv27mJbR5 In a Cinema Place (@a_cinema_place) October 3, 2022 Good for everyone involved in EMANCIPATION, but still icky that Apple, arguably the worlds most powerful corporation, is attempting to cleanse Will Smiths image for profit. pic.twitter.com/k0zahsBJSo Matthew Belloni (@MattBelloni) October 3, 2022 emancipation doesnt look that good i sorry like even if the slap didnt happen and white ppl still loved will smith i dont think this film wouldve won an oscar pic.twitter.com/7zNu6HPPt3 andrea (@andreaonhbo) October 3, 2022 The most fascinating storyline of Oscar season. Can Will Smith deliver a performance so good that it forces Oscar voters to give him a nomination for a show he cant even attend? #Emancipation https://t.co/EuTjG6vD0e Drew Auger (@DREWAUGER95) October 3, 2022 Emancipation premieres Dec. 2 in theaters and Dec. 9 on Apple TV+ At approximately 12:54 a.m., troopers from the New Hampshire State Police Troop A responded to a report of a crash on Interstate 95 involving a single car that had struck the Taylor River Bridge and landed in the water below. HAMPTON In the early morning hours of Saturday, Oct. 1, emergency crews were called for a single car accident that landed a woman and her car in the Taylor River. At approximately 12:54 a.m., troopers from the New Hampshire State Police Troop A responded to a report of a crash on Interstate 95 involving a single car that had struck the Taylor River Bridge and landed in the water below. On arrival, troopers located a 2015 Honda Pilot heavily damaged lying on its side and partially submerged in the river. They determined the Honda was traveling southbound when the car left the roadway and traveled into the median for an unknown reason. More: Big development: 164 condos, restaurant pitched for Route 1 site in Hampton Falls The car traveled through the median before striking the bridge and going airborne. The collision caused the vehicle to roll and land in on its passenger side. The driver was extricated and transported to Portsmouth Regional Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. Police said she may have been saved from more serious injury because she was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the accident. Three travel lanes of Interstate 95 traffic were closed for approximately two hours. Troopers at the scene were assisted by Hampton Police, Seabrook Police, Hampton Fire, Seabrook Fire, New Hampshire Department of Transportation, and New England Truck Center. On arrival, troopers located a 2015 Honda Pilot heavily damaged lying on its side and partially submerged in the river. They determined the Honda was traveling southbound when the car left the roadway and traveled into the median for an unknown reason. All aspects of the crash remain under investigation by State Police. State Police are requesting that anyone who may have witnessed the crash or the vehicle prior to the crash, contact the investigating trooper, Trooper Stephen Galvin by email at Stephen.M.Galvin@dos.nh.gov. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Woman hurt after car lands in river after veering off Route 95, Hampton, NH The claim: Second-degree murder, arson and other serious felonies will become non-detainable offenses in Illinois Starting in 2023, the state of Illinois is eliminating the use of cash bail in its criminal justice system. That change is spurring debate and concern about what the pretrial process will look like and what impact it will have on public safety in Illinois, with rhetoric heating up as elections approach. This is insane, wrote one Facebook user, sharing a graphic that claimed second-degree murder, arson and nine other crimes would now be non-detainable offenses. The Sept. 8 post was shared nearly 6,000 times in three weeks. The image further stated that after being charged with the crimes listed, those arrested would be released without bail pending a court date. But the post misrepresents the changes to the legal system, according to both advocates for the change and a prosecutor who has been critical of the law. The new pretrial system has a process to detain suspects charged with violent felonies, and most charges listed in the post fall into that category. Two of the crimes listed fall into a gray area where they may or may not be detainable depending on specifics of the incidents, the attorneys agreed. Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks USA TODAY reached out to the apparent author of the graphic and the social media user who shared it for comment. Nearly all crimes in post are still detainable before trial Cash bail is being eliminated in Illinois through the Pretrial Fairness Act, part of a larger set of criminal justice system changes signed into law in January 2021. Starting Jan. 1, there will be new pretrial release processes and pretrial services required in Illinois courts, according to the website of the statewide task force working on the implementation of the changes. The task force has been holding town halls throughout Illinois to provide guidance and did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Story continues The new law says suspects charged with felonies designated as Class 3 or above can still be detained before trial if prosecutors can demonstrate they pose a risk of fleeing, according to both Sarah Staudt, director of policy at the Chicago Appleseed Center for Fair Courts, who supports the law, and Winnebago County States Attorney J. Hanley, who has been publicly critical of it. Nine of the 11 crimes listed in the post second-degree murder, arson, robbery, burglary, intimidation, aggravated battery, kidnapping, drug-induced homicide and threatening a public official are Class 3 or higher, both said. Certain violent felonies, including Class 4 charges such as domestic violence, can also result in detention if a judge determines the suspect poses a danger to the public. Its not going to be The Purge, Staudt said, referring to comments she has seen and heard that compare Illinois to a 2013 movie in which all crimes become legal. The other two offenses listed in the post are aggravated fleeing and aggravated DUI. Both would typically be Class 4 felonies, according to Staudt and Sharlyn Grace, senior policy adviser in the Cook County Public Defenders office. Grace, however, noted that if someone faces those charges while already on pretrial release, probation or parole, that person could be detained because of the new infraction. She also noted judges cannot currently detain defendants on those charges without bond, meaning the new system is in that sense "actually an increase in detention power." Our rating: False Based on our research, we rate FALSE the claim that second-degree murder, arson and other serious offenses will become non-detainable offenses in Illinois. A new pretrial process goes into effect in 2023 that eliminates cash bail in the state. But it creates other policies that will lead to the pretrial detention for many suspects charged with violent felonies, and most charges in the post fall into that category. 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: Murder, arson suspects still detainable in Illinois The third week of nationwide protests in Iran turned particularly violent Sunday when security forces besieged Sharif University, a prominent university in the country, and closed the main gates of the facility where hundreds of students were protesting. The violent confrontation led to arrests and injuries, according to eyewitnesses who shared their accounts on social media sites such as Vahid Online. The unrest swept the country after the suspicious death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died in the custody of the morality police, which arrests women for not wearing a hijab properly. Protests, however, soon went beyond the condemnation of the morality police and turned into a movement against the Islamic Republic, with slogans demanding the toppling of the regime. Reports from inside Sharif University Sunday night described the atmosphere as dreadful. Many shared accounts of students being trapped inside the university and told to leave the premises through a parking garage. Once they got there, however, the students found themselves encircled by the guards who were waiting to arrest them, the Sharif University Islamic Association reported. Students were tear-gassed and shot by pellet guns, paintballs and rubber bullets, according to the association. PHOTO: Crowds gather on campus amid erupting clashes between the student body and security forces at Sharif University in Tehran, Iran, Oct. 3, 2022. (UGC/AFP via Getty Images) In his first comments about the protests since they broke out on Sept. 17, Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the U.S. and Israel for the unrest. "The incident that happened in which a young girl died was a bitter one. Our hearts were also broken," he said Saturday in a graduation address for the country's armed forces. MORE: Top Iran official warns protests could destabilize country Accusing protesters of making the streets unsafe by setting cars and banks on fire, he said people should have waited for the results of the investigation. "I say clearly that the riot is designed by America, the Zionist regime and those on their payroll," Khamenei said, alleging that some of the protesters have links to the countrys former monarch or some of its opposition groups. According to the Iranian penal system, such accusations can put people behind bars for years or even put them at risk of execution. Story continues According to Iran Human Right, the death toll from the protests was 133 on Sunday, 40 of whom were killed in an attack in the southeastern city of Zahedan on Sept. 30. State-linked media, however, confirmed only 19 of the casualties in Zahedan and accused "separatists" of the attacks in the southeast. The Islamic Association of Sharif University Students said it invited students and professors of universities across the country to close their classes as a sign of solidarity with the professors and students of Sharif University. The call for the strike was received by many university students who kept protesting despite the crackdown on the Sharif University protests. While other strikes were announced by small business owners, teachers and some labor associations, the excessive violence against university students has raised concerns. The first open call for a strike was issued by the Coordinating Council of Teachers' Cultural Associations on Sept. 26. The Council strongly condemned the violent action taken by the state against protesters, especially students, and asked all working and retired educators to stand with the protesters. Nationwide strikes cause psychological pressure on the repressive forces to realize that many people agree with the protesters, a Health Ministry employee told ABC News. He asked that his name not be used for fear of retribution. I hope people understand they would be better off striking in the long run because nothing matters as much as togetherness and unity, he said. Student protesters in Iran tear-gassed, arrested by police: Report originally appeared on abcnews.go.com A Denver Police Fugitive Unit officer was shot and a suspect killed during shootout at the corner of Sheridan and Midway boulevards Thursday. Pictured is the white car the suspect was driving. Andie MacDowell is totally worth it. The actress and L'Oreal Paris international spokeswoman, 64, strutted the catwalk at L'Oreal Paris' "Le Defile Walk Your Worth" show as part of Paris Fashion Week on Sunday. The Maid star was clearly having a ball wearing a flowing, beaded, champagne-colored gown with a thigh-high slit, in a color scheme that really made her gorgeous salt-and-pepper hair pop. The actress even took to social media to share some joyful behind the scenes camaraderie. Yall speak some French! the actress charmingly requested of her glam squad in a video shared on her Instagram Stories (now expired), after which they proceeded to entertain the South Carolina native with a few French words. MacDowell shared a bit of backstage shenanigans before walking the L'Oreal show at Paris Fashion Week. (Credit: Instagram/AndieMacdowell) It was certainly a moment to remember, especially given that the actress has been an outspoken advocate for aging and natural beauty in Hollywood. MacDowell won the hearts of many when she premiered her stunning gray locks at the Annette premiere in Cannes last summer. When speaking about the positive feedback she received from fans in a Sept. 2021 interview with The Zoe Report, the actress shared candid opinions of the beauty standards women face while opening up about her journey toward embracing her natural grays during the pandemic. "I'd been wanting to do it for a few years," she explained. "And then when COVID happened and I saw the roots coming in, I thought it suited me." "I think women are tired of the idea that you cant get old and be beautiful," she added. "Men get old and we keep loving them. And I want to be like a man. I want to be beautiful and I dont want to screw with myself to be beautiful." She expanded on the topic in a June interview with People, explaining that she's "happier" just going with her natural hair color. I really like it. I'm 64, and this is the time of my life. Eventually, I'm going to be silver. And I wanted to have this experience of feeling what it is," she said. "Aging is a really, really intimate educator on loving yourself, because you can't stop it. It's going to happen." Story continues Nearly a year after revealing her look, MacDowell revealed to the Sunday Times that she was discouraged by many in her circle to make such a bold step. People kept saying to me, Its not time, but I disagreed," she told the paper in July. "I was kowtowing to everybody elses beliefs, but I truly want to be where I am and look my age. "I was relieved people werent cruel, she added of the public response. They could have been mean to me. But everybody was very loving and kind and I was relieved because I really like it. I feel more comfortable. Wellness, parenting, body image and more: Get to know the who behind the hoo with Yahoo Life's newsletter. Sign up here. Photo credit: Chaloner Woods - Getty Images When I tell you, I learned from my mother about the real lives that informed Black Southern history, will you believe me? I can confirm that there is existing documentation for Mamas birthplace: There is a 1940 Eatonton/Putnam County census report that estimates her birth year as around 1934. (Actually, she was born in 1933.) There are the names of her parents, Charlie Jr. and Florence James on that census. But I hesitate to keep going, in this time of fact checking. For how could I prove that my life took place? Mama is elderly, her memory clouded by a stroke. Again, youll have to take my word for that, although there are living relatives who can confirm her declining healthbut will they? In many Black families, talking about inside business is viewed as forbidden. So I will give you a hypothetical history, which I suspect is the history of many actual Black women. I will go back 45 years and come forward to the present. Ill tell you what might be in my imaginationor what might be the truth sipping slowly at my blood. It is a year in the 1970s. There is a Black womans voice, raised and contemptuousno longer the harmonious drawlat a doctors office or a store at the new shopping mall where that Black woman lives in Durham, North Carolinathe midsize city where she lives with her husband and three daughters. Somebody will call that Black woman Trellie instead of her married name, Mrs. Jeffers. If that transgressing somebody is Black, shell remind them of their manners: She is not their friend, and they do not know her. Shell put on her schoolteachers voice, but there is love and warmth rippling under the surface of scolding. A nudging toward African American cultural lessons: You know better, Mrs. Jeffers will say. Usually, the other Black person will instantly self-correct, with an apology and perhaps a respectful dip of the head. But if that person who doesnt use an honorific happens to be white? Mrs. Jefferss alto voice will pitch very close to shouting. Her contempt will coalesce into speech. Shell correct that white person, I am Mrs. Jeffers to you, and we are not social equals. If they have the nerve to try to exchange words with Mrs. Jeffersto tell her they didnt have to put a handle on her namethere will be trouble. Shell begin to lecture the white clerkor nurse or person at a community meetingabout the historic disrespect of Black people. Shell take that white person all the way back to Alex Haleys Roots and remind them how other whites have demeaned and oppressed an entire race of people. As Mrs. Jeffers stands there, her voice will climb, while the air in the room will seem to whisper, What on earth is the big deal? What is wrong with this loud, Black woman? Story continues In the car ride back home, Mrs. Jeffers will sputter even more and shout. These white folks dont have any manners, shell say. Sometimes, shell use another word for white folks, (but Im too polite to mention that word here). Beside her, Mrs. Jefferss youngest daughter will cringe and agree with the air in the room they had left: Why was her mother so upset? What was the power in an honorific, oras her relatives said down southin a handle on a name? It takes a while for a daughter to see in her mother the woman the daughter might become, or even acknowledge that womanhood is possible. It seems so far away when you are a little girl, a daughter who doesnt understand that one day, your younger smooth skin will begin to wrinkle. You are not capable of miracles. You cannot change anyones idea of womanhood. You can only imagine yourself. And buried underneath this story is the fact that no Black daughter ever thinksor wants to admitthat she, too, will become a grown, disrespected, Black woman in America. Like many Black daughters of the past, she will relive small pieces of history. I reside in womanhood now, clutching my mothers wisdom and my daughters duty, but I never wanted to have anger and obsessions. Here I am, a tender of history, but this is not what I dreamed of, this constant reaching back. But now, I see those moments have meaning, not only for protecting Black ancestral lore, but unfortunately, meaning for my own Black womans life. Anyway, Mrs. Jefferss daughter might have become a college teacherProfessor Jefferswho moves to Norman, Oklahoma, in 2002. Yes, lets say that. Norman had been a (real) sundown town: African Americans werent allowed within the city limits after dark. One of the first Black families to move into the town were the Hendersons, who came in 1967. The father was Dr. George Henderson, a professor at the University of Oklahoma. Eventually, his name would grace a building on campus. Born in 1967, Professor Jeffers will remember this history of Norman, imagining what her already imaginary life would have been. How, in the past, shed have to watch the sky, to make sure she wouldnt be caught on the wrong side of time. And after living a decade in Norman, Professor Jeffers will find a favorite grocery store, filled with natural foods and friendly young white kids who smile at her. There is peace in this formerly historically troubled place. Except there is a young white woman who works at the store, who will insist on calling Professor Jeffers girlfriend. The older Black woman will seek all sorts of strategies to alert this young white woman that it is not appropriate to call someone old enough to be your mother girlfriend. And they arent friends: They only see each other at the store. Professor Jeffers will begin to refer to herself as Miss Lady, a (hopefully) polite nickname that catches on with everyone else working at the store, everyone besides this young white woman who tends the produce section. Until one dayfinallyProfessor Jeffers informs the young white woman, it isnt appropriate for her to call her girlfriend. Im an educated woman. I teach at the university, and Im too old to be your girlfriend. Im over 40. Then, the young white woman begins to justify why it was okay for her to set aside honorifics. Im educated too, she says, explaining that she is a freshman in college. The professor proceeds to give a lecture on racism in America. That while white people had been automatically given respect, nobody these days white seemed to want to call a Black person Mr. or Mrs. The young white woman turns pink, until abruptly, she turns and leaves the produce section. But Professor Jeffers doesnt look around her, frightened at how shed be perceived by others. She feels powerful and full of righteousness. After she pays for her groceries, walks outside, and settles behind the wheel of her car, she congratulates herself. At least she hadnt shouted at the young white woman. And besides, look, there was the sun, a sanctuary on the horizon. You Might Also Like The U.S. Supreme Court Building on October 03, 2022 in Washington, DC. The Court is hearing oral arguments for the first set of cases today which are Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency and Delaware v. Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. As their new term begins, the Supreme Court is due to hear two cases concerning voting rights. One in particular concerning gerrymandered maps in Alabama could further dilute the protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 depending on how the conservative-weighted court votes. Starting on Tuesday, the Supreme Court is due to hear arguments in the Merrill v. Milligan case, as USA Today notes. While Alabamas current Black population is at 27%, Alabamas proposed voting maps would give only one of the states seven congressional districts a chance to elect a Black representative. In January, a three-judge panel ruled the maps violated the Voting Rights Act and create a second district where Black voters either made up a majority or near majority of the population. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court then sided with Alabama in a 5-4 vote stating that such maps would be too close to the spring primaries to make this change. Read more The main argument is that if these maps are allowed to stand, this gives Black Alabama citizens no chance to elect representatives to elevate their interests. From the Associated Press: This is just about getting Black voters, finally, in Alabama, the opportunity to elect their candidates of choice. Its not necessarily guaranteeing that they will have their candidate elected, said Deuel Ross, senior counsel at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, which is representing the plaintiffs. In choosing not to do that, youre denying the people of the Black Belt the opportunity to elect an additional person that can really go to the mat on their interests, said Ross, who is one of the attorneys who will argue the case in a challenge backed by the Biden administration. Story continues Attorneys representing Alabama are trying to counter, saying the Black population is too spread out throughout the state to make a second district. The Voting Rights Act does not force states to sort voters based on race, Marshall said in a statement. The VRA is meant to prohibit racial gerrymanders, not require them. As fate would have it, everything circles back to the state of Alabama. In 2013 in a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court took away the Justice Departments power to review election laws in states with a history of racial discrimination. This is why gerrymandering and anti-voter laws have been rampant after the 2020 Presidental election. The plaintiffs will most likely ask the court to stick to the guidelines of the lower panel ruling. Hispanic Heritage Month is officially upon us, which means there are more conversations about Hispanic and Latinx people happening every day. Whether you're looking to dive into the culture headfirst by watching Hispanic movies or want to shop from and support Latinx-owned brands, understanding the history and context behind Hispanic Heritage Month is essential for any celebration. The terms "Hispanic" and "Latino" (or "Latinx") have been used interchangeably for decades, but you might not know that they actually have different meanings. While there's a lot of overlap between the two terms, there's one key factor that differentiates being Hispanic from being Latino. We tapped Dr. Maria Raquel Casas, Associate Professor of History at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), to find out what the Hispanic vs. Latino meaning really is and how each term came to be. What does it mean to be Hispanic? "A Hispanic is a person who the government usually characterizes as being of Iberian, Latin American, or Caribbean descent," Dr. Casas says. Per History, "Hispanic" and "Latino" were first used by the federal government in the 1980 Census to group immigrants and their ancestors who come from Spanish-speaking areas. If someone is Hispanic, that means they either speak Spanish or come from one of the following areas: Argentina Bolivia Chile Colombia Costa Rica Cuba Dominican Republic Ecuador El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Mexico Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Puerto Rico Spain Uruguay Venezuela The term "Hispanic" was first used by the federal government after decades of constant lobbying for representation. What does it mean to be Latino/Latina/Latinx? If someone is Latinx, they are from Latin America or have ancestors that hailed from the following areas: Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Costa Rica Cuba Dominican Republic Ecuador El Salvador French Guiana Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Puerto Rico Saint Barthelemy Saint Martin Uruguay Venezuela Story continues The term "Latino" is a shortened version of the Spanish term Latinoamericano, and according to a 2020 report by the Pew Research Center, only 3% of Latinos in the United States use the gender-neutral term "Latinx." What is the history behind the terms "Hispanic" and "Latino"? In case you were looking for a crash course in the history behind the terms "Hispanic" and "Latino," we've got you covered. According to Dr. Casas, the history of each term is extensive and dates all the way back to 1492, when Spain encountered the New World and tried to bring their religion and language to unknown territories. In more recent history, though, "Hispanic" and "Latino" came to be during President Richard Nixon's administration in the '60s. Photo credit: Bettmann - Getty Images "In the 1960s, the Republican party was in power and they wanted to reach out to the growing Latino populations but didn't know what term to use. 'Mexican' and 'Chicano' were thought of as offensive and low class [terms]," Dr. Casas says, explaining that "Latino" was also a questionable term at the time. President Nixon's administration came up with the non-offensive alternative, "Hispanic." "It was generic enough to incorporate the Latin American and Caribbean populations, so Hispanic is a governmental term which is why most people prefer Latinos, but some people have accepted Hispanic," Dr. Casas tells Seventeen. What is the difference between Hispanic vs. Latino? Believe it or not, the difference between these terms all comes down to history and geography. Both categories are ethnicities that only reference a person's origin and ancestry, which means a Latinx or Hispanic person can be of any race, regardless of the country they come from. Photo credit: Design by Yoora Kim According to Dr. Casas, people often use the term interchangeably because they have been used and referred to since the 1970s. "As each term incorporates so many ethnic groups, [people] don't see [it as a significant difference], but some people are invested in one term over the other," she says. As mentioned earlier, Hispanic people are from Spanish-speaking Latin America, as well as the Caribbean and Spain. The term "Hispanic" includes Spain, but does not include: Brazil French Guiana Guadeloupe Martinique Haiti Saint Barthelemy Saint Martin On the other hand, Latinos hail from Latin America or have ancestors that do. The term includes Brazil and the countries listed above but does not include Spain. However, both groups do include the following countries, which means anyone who hails from there is both Hispanic and Latino: Argentina Bolivia Chile Colombia Costa Rica Cuba Dominican Republic Ecuador El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Mexico Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Puerto Rico Uruguay Venezuela Given this information, a Brazilian could be Latino and non-Hispanic while a Spaniard could be Hispanic and non-Latino. In the case of someone from Cuba, for example, they are both and can truthfully use both terms interchangeably. You Might Also Like Photo credit: Netflix Netflix's Lou is the latest action thriller to grab our attention, and this one has some *major* plot twists. Landing on the streaming platform just over a week ago, the film has already jumped right up to the No.2 spot in Netflix's Top 10. Starring Allison Janney in the titular role, the story focuses on a young girl, Vee, who is kidnapped. Her mother Hannah (Jurnee Smollett) joins forces with mysterious neighbour Lou (Janney) to track Vee down, with Lou's dangerous past exposed in the process. As you'd expect, all is not as it seems - and the film's plot twist and Lou's past can seem quite confusing. Here's a run-through of the ending to Lou, explained. *Spoilers ahead*. Photo credit: Netflix The ending of Netflix's Lou explained Throughout the film, we see hints towards Lou's past working for the CIA in Iran in the 1950s (with the film now set in the 80s). However, that's not where Lou's mystery ends. During a tense scene, Lou eventually reveals her real identity to Hannah: she's the mother of Hannahs abusive ex-husband Philip (Logan Marshall-Green), who has now kidnapped Vee. After Hannah and Vee fled Philip, Lou engineered it so that they would move to Orcas Island, with Lou living next door as their landlord in order to protect them (though Hannah was unaware). Next, we find out more about Lou and Philip's past. Philip was born in Iran while Lou was working undercover for the CIA. She arranged for him to be taken away at a young age for his own safety, though Philip still resents her. It turns out both Lou and Philip are now wanted by the CIA: Philip for torturing hostages in El Salvador, and Lou for keep documents proving the CIAs involvement in the 1953 coup against Iran's elected Prime Minister. Photo credit: Netflix After Philip kidnaps Vee, he leads Hannah and Lou to a lighthouse on the beach. Vee, Hannah and Lou manage to escape. However following reports of the kidnapping, the CIA are now in pursuit of Philip and Lou. The wanted mother and son have a final showdown on the beach where Philip is seen stabbing Lou before the pair come together for a tight final hug, with Lou apologising to Philip. A CIA helicopter then appears to shoot them both. Story continues The film's final scene shows Hannah and Vee on a ferry, leaving Orcas Island for Seattle. The last shot then cuts to a woman watching them with binoculars from the top deck, wearing the same copper bracelet that Lou was given by the Sheriff. The woman appears to have brown hair (not grey like Lou did previously). However, the copper bracelet and binoculars appear to suggest that Lou is still alive and is still watching over Hannah and Vee. Photo credit: Netflix Did Lou survive the shooting (one shot does seem to show her wearing a bulletproof vest)? Or did Philip's body protect her from the bullets? Nothing is confirmed, but the film certainly seems to suggest that Lou could be alive. Still, Hannah and Vee are (presumably) safe going forward, which is at least some sort of a happy ending after all. Lou is streaming on Netflix now. You Might Also Like Whoopi Goldberg had a few choice words on The View this morning for a critic who commented about her appearance in Till, the true-story film from Chinonye Chukwu about the 1955 lynching of 14-year-old Emmitt Till in Mississippi for whistling at a white woman. The movie, which just premiered at the New York Film Festival, chronicles the extraordinary efforts of Mamie Till Mobley to find justice after her sons death. Goldberg plays Alma, the grandmother of the young boy. A review of the film made reference to her distracting fat suit except that Goldberg, who also produced the film, wasnt wearing one. More from Deadline RELATED: Till NYFF Review: Chinonye Chukwu Handles The Emmett Till Story With Care I dont really care about how you felt about the movie, Goldberg said this morning. But you should know that was not a fat suit, that was me. That was me. That was steroids. Remember last year? I assume you dont watch the show, or you would know that was not a fat suit. Its OK not be a fan of movie, but you want to leave peoples looks out. Just comment on the acting. And if you have a question, ask somebody. Im sure you didnt mean to be demeaning. Goldberg, who did not name the critic or magazine, missed several weeks of The View in 2019, after suffering from pneumonia. Barbara Broccoli, who produced the movie with Goldberg, Keith Beauchamp, Thomas Levine, Michael Reilly and Fred Zollo, told Deadline This is an important film to me, to all of us. Emmett, who was visiting his cousins, was lynched and murdered for whistling at a young woman at Bryants Grocery & Meat Market in Money, Mississippi. After a group of men dragged the boy from his uncles home, his mutilated body was discovered in the Tallahatchie River. Story continues The film, from MGMs Orion pictures, will be released theatrically October 14 by UAR. .@WhoopiGoldberg speaks on the importance of her film 'Till,' which premiered at New York Film Festival, and she addresses a claim that she wore a fat suit in the film. "You should know that was not a fat suit," she says. "Just comment on the acting." https://t.co/cVclFZQmjA pic.twitter.com/V7ULf3c8Pi The View (@TheView) October 3, 2022 Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Insider's reporter glamped in dome outside of Toronto, Ontario, in the rain, and thought it was cozy. Joey Hadden/Insider I booked a 400-square-foot dome on Airbnb outside of Toronto, Canada. Located next to a large home and the woods, it cost $250 for one night. Since it rained the whole time, I expected to be uncomfortable glamping. But I was wrong. About 45 minutes north of Toronto, Canada, is a woodsy glamping site on a private property with geodesic domes scattered throughout the grounds. A view of the glamping property. Joey Hadden/Insider I paid $250 to stay in one of these domes, which I found on Airbnb. I was surprised by how comfortable it was even though it rained during my stay. The author lounges in the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider Source: Airbnb The Airbnb was located on a residential property in King City, Ontario, full of trees, where hosts live and manage multiple domes. An arrow points to the area where the Airbnb was located. Joey Hadden/Insider I've seen domes popularized as photogenic places to stay and after glamping in a treehouse and a lifeguard tower, I wanted to try out a dome to see if it would make me feel more connected to nature with its grand views through a massive window. The author inside the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider Read more: I spent $290 to sleep in a remote treehouse in Canada. I thought it was nicer than most hotels I've stayed in. I took an Uber from Toronto to get to the dome. It was already raining when I left the city, and I was worried how the weather might hinder my glamping stay. Toronto on a rainy day. Joey Hadden/Insider When I arrived, I spotted my dome easily from the driveway as it was the closest dome to the large home on the property where my hosts lived. The author's Airbnb from the outside. Joey Hadden/Insider I knew based on the listing's description that the dome had a winter theme, with holiday decor out front year-round. Right away, I spotted whimsical lights and signage. Winter decor around the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider Outside of the dome, I had a private patio to grill food, make a fire, and sit. It would be nice to utilize this spot on a sunnier day, I thought. A patio outside of the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider The dome had a massive window on one side, opening up to a wide view of the outdoors. Curtains were provided to cover the window for privacy. A peak through the window of the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider Once inside, I thought the 400-square-foot dome felt much bigger than it looked on the outside. It was larger than most hotel rooms I've been in. A couch inside the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider The room included a couch, some lamps, storage furniture, and a king-sized bed. Story continues The bed was situated behind the couch. Joey Hadden/Insider The second I hopped on the bed, I noticed how comfortable it was compared to other glamping experiences I'd had, where the beds felt pretty standard. This one was firm yet soft, and more comfortable than even my bed at home. The author works on the comfy bed. Joey Hadden/Insider Read more: I tried glamping for the first time after years of off-grid camping. Here are 9 things that surprised me. Above the bed, I noticed a skylight where I could relax and watch the rain fall. I thought it was peaceful. The author looks out the skylight. Joey Hadden/Insider On one side of the bed, there was a record player with holiday music. Next to it were games from chess to cards. Storage furniture holds music and games. Joey Hadden/Insider I'd never seen a record player in a glamping accommodation before, so I was excited to listen to some tunes. The record play in use. Joey Hadden/Insider Another bedside comfort in the dome was an essential oil diffuser to make my room smell nice. Since good smells always calm me, I thought it was a nice touch. An oil diffuser on the bedside table. Joey Hadden/Insider On the other side of the bed, there was a water cooler, mini fridge, microwave, and some snacks. Amenities on the other side of the bed. Joey Hadden/Insider The Airbnb came with two soda cans in the fridge as well as complimentary chips and marshmallows. Refreshments inside the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider Inside the cabinets, I found cooking supplies. If I was staying for more than one night and planned to grill, I would have used them, I thought. Cooking supplies inside the dome's cabinets. Joey Hadden/Insider I also appreciated that there were extension chords and outlets all over the dome, so I was able to charge all my devices at the same time. Outlets and extension cords in the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider I thought the great big window in the dome framed stellar views of the property without getting wet from the rain. I didn't notice any leaks. A view of the window of the dome. Joey Hadden/Insider I was able to use a private bathroom, but it wasn't inside the dome. It was only a few steps from my door and I thought it was clean. The entrance to the bathroom (L) and a look inside (R). Joey Hadden/Insider I fell asleep to the patter of the rain on top of my dome while looking at the stars between the trees out the skylight window. The dome from the outside at night. Joey Hadden/Insider When I had to use the restroom in the middle of the night, I was thankful for the lights in the trees around the property. The property lit up at night. Joey Hadden/Insider While I initially worried that the weather would spoil my stay, I think it only added to the nature-filled experience. I woke up feeling refreshed from the cozy bed, the comforting amenities, and the sound of gentle rain. The author takes a selfie before leaving the Airbnb. Joey Hadden/Insider But my favorite part were the dramatic windows that made me feel totally immersed in nature. It was unlike any other glamping experience or hotel I've stayed in, and I thought my first stay in a dome was unique, memorable, and worth the hype. Looking out through the windows. Joey Hadden/Insider Read the original article on Insider Photo credit: Getty Images "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below." This article contains references of murder and sexual assault some may find upsetting DAHMER - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story the limited series on Netflix created by American Horror Story's Ryan Murphy has probably been all over your feeds and maybe group chats lately. Not only is the show, which headlines Evan Peters as the notorious serial killer who murdered 17 boys and men of color or Black from 1978 through 1991, topping Netflixs charts but its also been in the news after receiving criticism from the families of Dahmer's victims and queer audiences. With Jeffrey Dahmer's father, Lionel, featured in a 2020 televised interview, his mother Joyce having passed away in 2000, and his brother David living in anonymity, you may be wondering what happened to other key players in the show, such as Reverand Jesse Jackson, Sr., the civil rights activist who briefly appeared in episode eight of the series. After Dahmer's capture, Jackson visited Milwaukee to speak out against the handling of the case as well as the double standard the local police held for Black and white citizens. Ahead, learn about Reverend Jesse Jackson, why he traveled to Wisconsin, and where Glenda Cleveland fits into his story. Who is Jesse Jackson? Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson is a civil rights activist, who made history as the second Black presidential candidate in 1984, where he won five primaries and caucuses for a total of more than 3 million votes, History.com reports. According to Standford University's Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute, the former member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference member, he was seen as a protege of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. Jackson was even present when he was assassinated on April 4, 1968. Photo credit: Robert Abbott Sengstacke - Getty Images Jackson founded the National Rainbow Coalition in 1983. According to History.com, the organization was created to "restore a moral tone, a redemptive spirit and a sensitivity to the poor and the dispossessed" to Reagan-era America. Story continues Why did Jesse Jackson come to Milwaukee? After Dahmer was arrested on July 22, 1991, when a man escaped from Jeffrey's apartment and flagged down a police car, Jackson headed to Milwaukee in August 1991 to meet with local Black and POC community members and address negligence by police officials. Jackson's goal was to discern whether discrimination or racism may have played a role in the investigation and to identify how the police failed the victims. In particular, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, police officials failed to save 14-year-old Konerak Sinthasomphone, who Dahmer had kidnapped. When the dazed and naked Sinthasomphone escaped to get help, the authorities returned the boy to Dahmer, who had convinced the officers that the young teen was his 19-year-old boyfriend (despite Glenda Cleveland, Dahmer's Black neighbor, advising police that something was wrong). Who did Jesse Jackson meet during his visit? According to the Associated Press, Jackson met with Mayor John O. Norquist during his trip to Milwaukee. Following that meeting, Jackson said that he was "in no position to judge" Police Chief Philip Arreola in spite of his department's negligence. Later, Jackson hosted a church rally with approximately 1,000 people, where they chanted, "Keep hope alive." Jackson called for a thorough investigation on a local, state, and national level to examine racist practices and oversights like the ones in Dahmer's case. "There must be some results from the investigation, and there must be some remedy," he added. Jackson also met with Cleveland, where he also said, "Police chose the word of a killer over an innocent woman," in a statement obtained by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Is Jesse Jackson's rally speech on the Netflix series accurate? In the eighth episode of the Netflix series, Jesse Jackson addressed a large crowd of people who came on a peace walk in support of Jeffrey's victims and Glenda Cleveland, speaking out against police indifference, saying Today, the city of Milwaukee is hurting. Jeffrey Dahmers heinous crimes have not only shocked the nation, theyve inflicted a painful, devastating wound on this community." "Now, some folks have asked me Reverend why you going out to Milwaukee? Dahmers been caught arent you just stirring up more division? to those folks I say I come here today not to sow division but to call for accountability," he continued. Jackson added: "Dahmers crimes werent committed in a vacuum, many people including officers of the law turned a blind eye which is why he was able to do what he did for so long. While Jackson's real-life speech from the gathering echoes the same sentiments as the march scene in the show, it is not completely accurate. Instead, he said, "And so we must take the energy and anger here and turn that anger into some constructive plan, for hope, and for a new Milwaukee." Jackson then lays out the plans for the march, saying "We are going to visit Mrs. Cleveland for a moment. The lady who was so heroic and so caring. In the meantime, let's stay together." Footage from Jackson's speech at the real-life protest is available on YouTube. Where is Reverand Jesse Jackson now? Now 80, Reverand Jesse Jackson still works as an American civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and politician, per Rainbow PUSH Coalition. He resides with his wife Jacqueline Lavinia "Jackie" Jackson in the Chicago area. According to ABC7 Chicago, Jackson is undergoing treatment for Parkinson's a neurological disease that has no cure and is a progressive disorder, where mobility and speech decline over time. You Might Also Like Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this story misstated the date the law was passed and whether proposed amendments were passed. In addition, a pull quote was misattributed. More than a dozen bills focused on K-12 education were approved by the Arizona Legislature this year. One of those bills was a ban on the use or reference of sexually explicit material without parental consent in Arizona schools. House Bill 2495, sponsored by Rep. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, was signed into law and effective as of Sept. 24. The Arizona Republic broke down what you need to know about the most significant education laws from this year's legislative session. Heres what you need to know about the book ban: When does the book ban law come into effect? What does HB 2495 change? House Bill 2495 was signed into law in July and is in effect. The law requires schools to get parental approval to teach books or other material that make references to sex. Hoffman said in March his motivation for the law is rooted in protecting children, not banning books. We need them learning math, reading, writing and other incredibly important educational materials that will help prepare them for a vibrant and prosperous future, not worrying about sexually explicit material," he said in a Senate Education Committee meeting. Education legislation: Many new K-12 school laws going into effect. Here's what you need to know Marisol Garcia, a teacher and president of the Arizona Education Association, says the law's burden adds to an already long list of responsibilities for teachers, since the law does not include added funding to fulfill the mandate. "The levels and levels of bureaucracy that is coming from a party of less bureaucracy, just seems very ironic, especially in Arizona," Garcia said. She and her colleagues already involve the community in the education of youth. "We always want schools where parents are involved. We want parents coming to school board meetings or parents at PTA meetings," Garcia said. "Parents have always had access to what we teach our curriculum. We have curriculum nights. We invite them. I've always had parents come to my classroom and be part of it." Story continues That involvement makes this law unnecessary, Garcia said. She is afraid it will drive teachers to leave the state, or even the profession. Hoffman's Republican colleagues proposed amendments to the bill in May, making those exceptions for certain text to be taught without parental sign-off if the books are considered one of the following: "classical literature," "early American literature" or a book required to obtain college credit. At the May Senate floor session, House Education Chair Michelle Udall introduced one of the amendments. "No one here is advocating for porn in classrooms, we are advocating for the freedom to read and question," she said in a prior February session. Those amendments were not passed. What books will be banned? We don't know that, yet. The original bill's language does not list any specific titles, and is open and vague. School districts will interpret and act on this new set of rules. However, during a March Senate Education Committee meeting, Hoffman cited the availability of materials that had drawings of male and female organs and "hundreds of reference materials provided to Arizona children directing them to resources like, and I'm quoting, dry humping saves lives, it's OK to have sex with a lot of people, how to view porn and other equally concerning topics." Some districts, such as Paradise Valley Unified School District, have already had run-ins with which books to include in lessons. A principal at a high school was placed on leave due to complaints over a book, "So You've Been Publicly Shamed," that was assigned to an Advanced Placement English class. This caused the district to make a statement regarding the book review process and create a list of approved literature. Other districts will now have to come up with solutions rather quickly. Garcia said there is a scramble to figure out whether teacher's lesson plans will need to change come Monday. This has educators asking what they can teach. Gaelle Esposito is a lobbyist working on education policy. They agree with Garcia and see these newly passed rules to the public education system as the product of being in an election year. Esposito sympathizes with the rapidly changing environment teachers find themselves in. "I do not fault the districts, they are doing what they can," Esposito said. "The problem here lies squarely on the shoulders of folks like Jake Hoffman, who have decided to play politics to try to score points to look like they're doing something when all they are doing is denying students the ability to have a rigorous education and putting educators and librarians in precarious positions for their own personal gain." Who is Jake Hoffman? Rep. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, speaks during debate of HB 2898, a K-12 education bill, during the House Appropriations Committee hearing at the Arizona Capitol in Phoenix on May 25, 2021. Hoffman is a state representative who serves the 12th district, which includes Gilbert and Queen Creek, and leans heavily Republican. Hoffman started a company called 1Ten Management in June 2021, corporate filings show. Previously, he had a company called Rally Forge. He once served on the Queen Creek Town Council and in 2020, when he ran Rally Forge, his Twitter and Facebook accounts were suspended and banned. 'Troll farm': Candidate for Arizona Legislature suspended and banned from social media for violating platforms' guidelines Hoffman runs several political production and consulting companies, and his firms were paid more than $2 million to produce pro-Lake and anti-Taylor Robson ads. Hoffman was also among Republicans who falsely declared themselves Arizonas presidential electors and cast votes for Trump, sending documents memorializing the action to the U.S. Senate and the National Archives. For subscribers: Who paid $2M to promote Kari Lake campaign? The source of donations remains unclear Hoffman has not responded for comment on the law from The Republic. Have a question you need answered? Reach the reporter at rromeroruiz@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @raphaeldelag. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona school book bans: What to know about House Bill 2495 This article originally appeared on Velo News Matej Mohoric (Bahrain-Victorious) usurped Jonas Vingegaard (Jumbo-Visma) from the CRO Race leaders jersey and secured the overall GC on Sunday. Mohoric amassed the bonus points needed to bump Tour de France champion Vingegaard from the top of the classification and snag his first victory since he won Milan-San Remo this spring. Elia Viviani (Ineos Grenadiers) won the final stage sprint in Zagreb while Mohoric completed his mission to score the second-place required to rumble Vingegaard out of the leaders red jersey. Vingegaard finished in the front group but lost out on the overall by just one second after Mohoric turned his eight-second overnight deficit into a one-second winning margin. Mohoric back in winners circle ahead of Il Lombardia Victory marks a mojo-boosting return to the winners circle for Mohoric after COVID and a collection of complications saw him stuck in first gear through the summer. This was a bit of a goal for me, I wanted to finish the season in good shape, Mohoric said after securing Croatian victory. I had a lot of health problems this summer and I started to feel better when I went to Canada. I decided not to do the world championships so I could train more because I thought I wouldnt have the shape to be competitive. Here, I came with better legs already and Im very happy and proud we could pull off this win with my team. Although the CRO Race didnt draw the deepest of startlists while many riders race through Italy, Mohoric heads into Il Lombardia with the wind at his back and dark-horse status for the final monument of the season. Story continues Mohoric and his Bahrain crew played a canny game Sunday. After starting the stage eight seconds back on Vingegaard, Mohoric did the math and made sure to be in the right place at the right time in the final stage toward Zagreb. The Slovenian snatched three bonus seconds in the first intermediate of the sprinter-friendly route and grabbed six more by surfing the winners wheels in the final kilometers. It was an open battle for GC, I was eight seconds behind at the start, Mohoric said. It looked almost impossible on paper to get the GC, but we tried and went all in for the first intermediate. Then we knew I had to finish second on the stage. Basically the team did all the work. I just sat on the wheel and made sure I didnt lose them in the final. Viviani: I think we did our best leadout of this year It wasnt just Mohoric that returned to winning ways Sunday. Viviani won for the first time since February in what was just his second victory for Ineos Grenadiers. The British squad dominated the final kilometers through the Croatian capital with a five-rider freight train that towed Viviani toward the mass sprint. Today we really commited for a bunch sprint, Viviani said. We looked at last years stage and were worried about attacks in the last lap. We knew if Mohoric need to attack if he wanted to win GC, so we stayed on the wheels all day and let Bahrain do the job. The Ineos carriages remained assembled through a chaotic final that saw a late crash and several riders stray off-course at a wrong turn. I think we did our best leadout of this year, Viviani said. It was just my second win of the year but when the win comes like that its thanks to the team. Victory means a lot, when youre a sprinter you dont win a lot of times, so the next win is always important. I hope to end the season in the best way possible and give some wins to the team. E L I A !!!!! The Grenadiers controlled that finish to perfection and @eliaviviani sprints to victory on the final stage of #CroRace pic.twitter.com/fBOii57lbt -- INEOS Grenadiers (@INEOSGrenadiers) October 2, 2022 For exclusive access to all of our fitness, gear, adventure, and travel stories, plus discounts on trips, events, and gear, sign up for Outside+ today. By Azernews By Sabina Mammadli The first week of the 44-day second Karabakh war proved crucial in the course of the military operations Liberation of several villages & destruction of dozens of military hardware demoralized the occupying army Azerbaijan stepped up propaganda to render neutral Armenia along with its deepening military crush The course of the seven-day heavy battles across the entire perimeter of the front heartened both the army & nation about the desired outcome of the war September 27 marks the second anniversary of the start of the 44-day second Karabakh war. In response to the frequent Armenian provocations and to terminate the nearly 30-year-long occupation of Karabakh and surrounding territories, the Azerbaijani armed forces started wide-ranging military attacks to regain the lands, which resulted in the decisive and glorious victory over the Armenian army within 44 days. Throughout the six-week-long blitzkrieg, the Azerbaijani army regained a significant part of the occupied territories, that is over 300 towns and villages from Armenia's 30-year-long disastrous occupation, compelling the enemy to sign an act of capitulation, and return back several districts in line with Russia-brokered peace deal. By virtue of ongoing provocations along the contact line, unsuccessful mediation efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group, and Armenia's refusal to comply with international laws, just to name a few, to put an end to the occupation, a decisive war was not long in coming. Heres how the first week of the war played out: Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: September 27 On September 27, at about 0600 hours, the Armenian armed forces committed large-scale provocations by subjecting to intensive shelling from large-caliber weapons, mortars, and artillery mounts of various calibers positions of the Azerbaijan army along the entire perimeter of the front and settlements close to the frontline. There were killed and wounded among the civilians as a result of the intensive shelling by the enemy of Tartar Districts Qapanli village, Agdam Districts Chiragli and Orta Qarvand villages, Alxanli and Shukurbayli villages of Fuzuli District, and Jojug Marjanli village of Jabrayil District. Serious damages were caused to civilian infrastructure. Qaraxanbayli, Qarvand, Kand Horadiz, Yuxari Abdulrahmanli villages of Fuzuli District, Boyuk Marjanli, and Nuzgar villages of Jabrayil District were liberated soon after the Azerbaijani army started the liberation of the occupied lands. Five members of a family in the Azerbaijani village of Qashalti, Naftalan District, i.e. the head of the Gurbanov family, Elbrus, and four members of his family, were killed as a result of Armenian shelling. President Ilham Aliyev and French leader Emmanuel Macron had a phone conversation to discuss the escalation of tension on the line of contact between the Azerbaijani and Armenian troops. Azerbaijan declared martial law that included imposing a curfew in several cities between 0900 pm and 0600 am. Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: September 28 Several advantageous heights around the village of Talysh were cleared of the occupying forces, and the Armenian armed forces suffered heavy losses. President Ilham Aliyev signed an order to introduce partial mobilization across Azerbaijan. Presidential aide Hikmat Hajiyev gave an interview to Al Jazeera Media Network. The Azerbaijani Army destroyed several more Armenian armed forces combat vehicles on that day. Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: September 29 First Vice-President of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva remarked on the second Karabakh war on her Instagram page, "May the Almighty God bless every Azerbaijani to kiss the holy land of Karabakh." President Ilham Aliyev answered questions by correspondents of '60 Minutes' program on Russia TV. Ilham Aliyev held a videoconference with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. President provided information about the military provocation committed by Armenia against Azerbaijan. Parliament Speaker Sahiba Qafarova and President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Georgi Tsereteli discussed the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict and Armenia's aggression against Azerbaijan. A large number of manpower and equipment of the Armenian armed forces were destroyed. Armenia fired at a car belonging to the Azerbaijani ITV channel in Qapanli village of Azerbaijans Tartar District. At the same time, heavy fighting continued during the night: one enemy tank and up to ten soldiers were neutralized. Meanwhile, the offensive of the Azerbaijani Army for the liberation of Fuzuli city continued. Furthermore, the enemy's tank was destroyed in the direction of Agdara, and Azerbaijani artillery units delivered crushing blows to the enemy. Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: September 30 President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva met with wounded soldiers. President of the European Council Charles Michel made a phone call to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The Armenian armed forces used Tochka-U high-precision tactical ballistic missile system. However, due to the unsuitability and poor quality of the Armenian troops' military equipment, three of the fired missiles didn't explode. The Azerbaijani Army disabled one S-300 anti-aircraft missile system of the Armenian armed forces during the fighting in Shushakand village of Khojaly District. The Azerbaijani Army conducted operations to destroy Armenian manpower and military equipment, surrounded in the Agdare and Tartar directions, as well as continued cleansing of the territory. Some 46 civilians were injured, and 14 were killed in heavy artillery shellings of Azerbaijani densely populated areas. Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: October 1 Some 97 houses and objects in Azerbaijans Agdam District were destroyed by artillery shelling of the Armenian armed forces. Starting the morning of October 1, 2020, units of the Armenian armed forces once again subjected the Azerbaijani city of Tartar to artillery fire. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov had a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, during which he said that Armenia is purposefully targeting civilians in the clashes. At that point, sixteen civilians were killed and 58 others were injured with three kids among them. In a phone conversation with Belarus President Alyaksandr Lukashenka, President Ilham Aliyev blamed Armenia for deliberately violating the negotiation process and targeting civilian targets. As a result of the intensive shelling of residential buildings in Jojug Marjanli village by the Armenian armed forces, many houses were extensively damaged. Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: October 2 Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was interviewed by the Al-Jazeera TV channel. In the interview, the head of state once again defended the rightful position of Azerbaijan in the international media and spoke about the large-scale provocations of the Armenian armed forces and the counter-offensive operation of the Azerbaijani army. He also answered questions about the history of the conflict. Combat operations continued in different directions of the front. In the direction of Agdara, the Azerbaijani troops liberated the important heights around Madagiz settlement (later renamed Sugovushan) and took control of it. In the Jabrayil-Fuzuli direction, the Azerbaijani army managed to move forward and broke the resistance of the Armenian troops, forcing them to retreat. Five Armenian armored vehicles, three military infrastructure facilities, and a large number of personnel were destroyed. Armenian volunteers from Armenia to Azerbaijan's then-occupied territories refused to fight under various pretexts, fearing the intensity of the fighting and the heavy losses. The Armenian armed forces subjected the villages of Xindiristan, Alibayli, Ahmadaghali, and Safarli of Agdam District to a massive artillery bombardment. As a result of the aggression, there were wounded and killed civilians. The Armenian armed forces shelled the building of a kindergarten in the Shixarx settlement in the city of Tartar. Armenian armed forces fired on journalists who were reporting from the frontline. The journalists operating in the residential areas fired by Armenian forces came under sudden fire. Armenia launched nearly 10 Tochka-U tactical missiles to Sabirkand village of Shamkir District. On that day, the Armenian military supplies and combat positions were destroyed. The Azerbaijani army seized the battle flag of the air discount command unit of the Armenian armed forces 193rd airborne assault battalion, as well as a large number of weapons and ammunition from the Armenian forces who fled the battlefield, helpless in the face of the power of the Azerbaijani army. The Armenian field control point, as well as several other Armenian manpower and equipment, were destroyed. Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: October 3 President Ilham Aliyev announced that the Azerbaijani army raised the national flag in Madagiz, renaming it Sugovushan, and liberated Talish village in Tartar, Mehdili, Chaxirli, Ashagi Maralyan, Shaybay, Guyjag, and Ashagi Abdurrahmanli villages in Jabrayil and Fuzuli Districts. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry presented a list of the destroyed military equipment of the Armenian armed forces. Its total losses amounted to 230 tanks and other armored vehicles, 250 artillery installations, multiple launch rocket systems, and mortars, 38 air defense systems, 10 command and observation posts, seven ammunition depots, more than 130 vehicles, and one anti-aircraft missile complex S-300. On the night of October 3, the combat activity of the Armenian armed forces in various directions of the front was suppressed, and crushing blows were inflicted on them. The Armenian armed forces shelled Tartar city, the region's Sahlabad, Qazyan, Qapanli, Qaynag, Askipara, Qusanli villages, Agdam District's Ayag Qarvand, Imamqulubayli, Qaradaghli, Tazakand villages. Prosecutor-General Kamran Aliyev said at a briefing that since September 27, 19 civilians had been killed as a result of Armenian shellings. Among those killed were three women and two children;63 civilians received various degrees of injuries. The Prosecutor General's Office launched 12 criminal cases into crimes committed by the Armenian armed forces against civilians. The Defense Ministry distributed footage of the destruction of the Armenian army's military equipment and of liberated territories. Residents of Baku, on the balconies of their houses, celebrated the liberation of the village of Sugovushan. Your morning rundown of the latest news from overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority's staffing woes aren't just impacting students going to school. Within weeks, they'll begin impacting a slew of other commuters in the state. On Thursday, RIPTA announced it would begin cutting back service on 21 routes starting on Oct. 22 because of a "historic workforce shortage." "In Rhode Island and across the country, there is a shortage of staff necessary to maintain daily transportation services," said RIPTA CEO Scott Avedisian. "RIPTA is facing fierce competition from higher-paying private-sector companies for commercial drivers. As a result, this is causing a disruption for our customers in daily fixed-route bus service." RIPTA staffing crisis: Canceled school routes, supervisors driving buses, 15-hour days Routes that will see reduced trips include 17, 19, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, 31, 50, 51, 54, 55, 56, 57, 60, 63, 65X, 67, 72, 87, and 92. However, RIPTA said "early morning, night, weekend and holiday service will not be impacted." RIPTA said with fewer trips, it will be able to avoid cancelations and stay on schedule. Further details on the changes are available at RIPTA.com/ServiceChanges. The agency said it is in negotiations with the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 618, which represents drivers, "to increase starting hourly pay for van operators in an effort to become more competitive in the marketplace." RIPTA school routes: RIPTA buses will roll again Thursday for Providence high school students At present, paratransit drivers, who operate trips for people with disabilities, make a stating wage of $16.45 per hour. That's where drivers usually start out before becoming fixed-route drivers, who make a starting wage of $18.95 per hour. Union President Nick DeCristofaro said he wants RIPTA to provide annual raises of approximately 3%, and he doesn't believe the starting wage for paratransit operators is attractive to prospective employees. Story continues The union has said its members are pulling 15-hour shifts to alleviate the staffing crisis. "I cant expect you to understand what driving a bus for 15 hours a day is like," DeCristofaro told a Providence Journal reporter. "I tell people just picture if you were driving your own car and not worrying about any minute-to-minute times and bus stops and people getting in and out of your car. Just think of driving through the city for eight hours, not even 15 hours Tell me how you would feel after an eight-hour drive in your vehicle." DeCristofaro, evidently frustrated with RIPTA management, said it was only last week that Gov. Dan McKee called him while DeCristofaro was at a convention in Las Vegas, asking for DeCristofaro's help as the driver shortage impacted school routes. DeCristofaro said he "took care of it" and "the next day, all the school trips were coming." McKee's spokesperson Matt Sheaff confirmed the conversation took place. RIPTA told the Journal that from Sept. 1 - Sept. 23, drivers put in 13,296 hours of overtime, costing the agency $635,894.65. "Ive been here 46 years," DeCristofaro said. "Ive never ever seen anything like this." This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RIPTA service reductions planned on 20+ routes due to staff shortage Its been two years since Iowas Templeton Rye released a barrel-strength whiskey, and this year this high-proof spirit has returned with a bang. The 2022 edition is the fourth from the brand so far, and one that fans of bold, spicy rye whiskey should check out. Templetons Iowa distillery was just completed a few years ago, so all of the whiskey in the bottle continues to be produced at MGP in Indiana, with the classic 95 percent rye and 5 percent malted barley mash bill. The core expression is a six-year-old rye whiskey bottled at 91.5 proof, but the barrel-strength version, which debuted in 2018, has an ABV that trends much higher than that. The 2022 edition was bottled at 57.3 percent ABV, or 114.6 proof, a slight increase from the last release. Specific barrels are selected for this expression of varying ages to be blended together for the non-chill filtered final product. More from Robb Report Our Barrel Strength series is dedicated to producing innovative offerings with compelling taste profiles and our Barrel Strength 2022 iteration is our most exciting release yet, said senior vice president of Templeton Distillery, Blair Woodall, in a press release. Were delighted to share this new Barrel Strength 2022 expression with the world of our fans who seek a quality rye. The distillery recommends saving this whiskey for sipping neat, or perhaps with some ice or a splash of water to cut down the alcohol a bit. But honestly, go ahead and make a cocktail with this as wellthe high proof will bring some extra intensity to your next Manhattan. The proof is indeed prominent, but not overpowering, adding a layer of red hot cinnamon to the palate. The main notes are black pepper, brown sugar, honey, vanilla and a dollop of dark chocolate, with some lingering heat on the finish. Story continues Its true, there are many different rye whiskeys produced at MGP that are sold under different brand names to sample these days, but despite that fact there are flavor differences that differentiate them. So give this whiskey a try to see how it stacks up against the rest. You can find the new Templeton Rye Barrel Strength 2022 (SRP $59.99) available to purchase online now. Best of Robb Report Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Though it was ubiquitous among the front row, not a single look in Valentinos spring summer 23 runway collection featured the brands Pink PP hue (the initials, by the way, are those of creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli, who worked with Pantone to custom create the shade). The same went for the Italian brands footwear but they didnt make the offering any less statement making or over-the-top. Instead of the shocking fuchsia pink color that has taken over cities around the world (Valentino recently announced a pink takeover of activations in New York and its Paris shop is wrapped in the color), this seasons platforms featured almost no color. More from Footwear News They were clear, they had a major platform and they bore an unavoidable resemblance to the oft-maligned stripper heel. Surely an unintentional reference point, the shoes instead seemed to be something of a palette cleanser and neutral punctuation mark to a vast collection that included just about every other color in the rainbow, from grape and lemon yellow to lilac and lipstick red. Clear platforms from Valentinos spring summer 23 collection, which launched Sunday at the brands Paris Fashion Week show. - Credit: Getty Images Getty Images The lineup also included a substantial expansion on the brands V logo, with head-to-toe looks done in swaths of monogram fabric, down to pairs of pumps with an open weave of Vs interlocking in what is sure to be a big footwear push next year. Valentino vastly expanded its monogram logo motif for spring summer 23, down to open weave pumps that featured the brands logo. - Credit: Getty Images Getty Images Launch Gallery: Valentino Spring Summer 2023 Collection at Paris Fashion Week Best of Footwear News Sign up for FN's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Millions of consumers in the U.S. count on their local Walmart store to pick up weekly essentialswhether that's food, clothes, or other household supplies. But recently, a significant portion of those shoppers were locked out of their go-to locations as the big-box retailer underwent mass closures across several states. Now that most of these Walmart stores have reopened, the company is making another big change for shoppers. Read on to find out what the retailer will now let you do in stores. READ THIS NEXT: Walmart Is Banning Shoppers From Doing This in 4 States, as of Next Year. Walmart recently had to close hundreds of stores. As last month came to a close, Walmart was forced to shutter hundreds of locations temporarily due to a major natural disaster. Hurricane Ian made its first landfall in the U.S. on Sept. 28 on Florida's west coast as a dangerous Category 4 hurricane before hitting South Carolina two days later on Sept. 30 as a Category 1 storm, according to ABC News. Over the course of several days, Walmart temporarily shuttered hundreds of stores in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. It's unclear exactly how many stores had to be closed, but on the morning of Sept. 29, the retailer's real-time closure map indicated that at least 244 locations throughout the four states were temporarily closed, The Miami Herald reported. Most of these locations have since reopened. Natural disasters are unpredictable, so Walmart gave no clear timeline as to when stores would be back in business. Some locations, however, started reopening as early as Sept. 28. "Regarding the loss of power and reopening after the storm's passing, we're actively taking steps now to give us the best opportunity to resume operations once it's safe to do so," Walmart Director of Corporate Communication Charles Crowson told The Miami Herald. As of Oct. 3, Walmart's real-time map indicates that there are just two stores still closed throughout the four states. And only one appears to be related to the hurricane: a Walmart in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, is still listed as temporarily closed (a separate Walmart Supercenter in Peachtree City, Georgia, has been "closed temporarily until further notice" since late August due to a fire). Story continues "Your Fort Myers Beach Walmart is down but we are far from out! We hear you Fort Myers Beach! Stay tuned for updates while we work to open! Stay strong and stay safe," the local Walmart's Facebook page posted on Oct. 2. The same account had written on Sept. 27 that it would be closing temporarily for the hurricane and would "reopen as soon as is safe for our associates and the community." RELATED: For more up-to-date information, sign up for our daily newsletter. But Walmart is making a change in stores as they reopen. As stores reopen after the mass closures from Hurricane Ian, Walmart isn't stopping its efforts to take care of impacted customers and associates. On Sept. 29, the big-box retailer released a press release to announce that it was "moving quickly to help" these communities, which includes a new donation initiative for shoppers in all states. "Many of our associates, customers and members in the communities we serve across Florida are feeling the devastating effects of Hurricane Ian," Walmart said in its statement, adding in a separate Sept. 30 statement that, "As our stores in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina are now being impacted, we're standing by to support those communities" as well. Walmart announced that it would be accepting donations from customers at the registers of its stores. And that's not all. The retailer said it "will help maximize their impact by matching contributions" when a customer donates at its register or through its associate giving program by up to $2.5 million. "Our customers, members and associates are the most generous people we know," Walmart said, also noting that that "Walmart, Sam's Club and the Walmart Foundation are committing up to $6 million to recovery and relief efforts." The company explained, "This support will include donations of essential supplies and grants to organizations providing relief on the ground." Walmart is not the only company stepping up. Walmart is not alone in its efforts to help those recently affected by the deadly Hurricane Ian. Target, Home Depot, and Lowe's have all also committed to donating to the cause, according to Fox Business. Alongside Walmart, these retailers have collectively pledged up to $14 million to help provide emergency shelter, food, and other supplies to those affected by the storm. "While we know recovery will take many months, we're here to help these communities return to some form of normalcy as soon as possible," Lowe's CEO Marvin Ellison told the news outlet. Other companies donating to relief efforts include Duke Energy, Publix, Tractor Supply, and Wells Fargo, per Fox Business. A Colorado State University student died in a dorm over the weekend, the university confirmed Monday. CSU police and paramedics responded to Durward Hall early Sunday to a student having a medical issue, according to a statement from the university. The student was unresponsive and not breathing; paramedics performed lifesaving efforts, but the student did not survive. CSU police are investigating the possible causes and the circumstances surrounding the students death, spokesperson Dell Rae Ciaravola said. There was not and is no public safety threat to the campus associated with the death, according to the university. The university community is deeply saddened by this loss and we send our heartfelt condolences to the students family and friends, Ciaravola said in a statement. The Larimer County Coroners Office will release the students identity and manner and cause of death at a later time, Ciaravola said. This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Colorado State University student died in Durward Hall In the Republican Party of Donald Trump and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, only those faithful to Trumps cult-like MAGA movement are safe. Democrats are called the enemy, labeled killers. And even Republicans who dont embrace MAGA dogma any lost election was stolen, Trump is always right . have a death wish. Trump, the current front-runner for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination should he decide to run, took to Truth Social on Friday night and attacked Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell because he voted for legislation sponsored by Democrats: He has a DEATH WISH. Trump threatens McConnell, hurls racist nickname at Elaine Chao Trump then launched a racist attack on McConnells wife, Elaine Chao, who served in Trumps Cabinet when he was president: Must immediately seek help and advise from his China loving wife, Coco Chow! Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and his wife, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, in 2020. We know from Jan. 6, 2021, that Trump has potentially violent followers who take cues from him, so theres no way to see the DEATH WISH comment as anything more than a veiled threat. With racist garbage about the wife of a high-ranking member of the party Trump claims to represent, the former president shows the world his true nature for the 10 millionth time. And by misspelling advice as advise, Trump shows the world, also for the 10 millionth time, that he can't be bothered with little things like attention to detail. Michigan Republicans line up to kiss Trump's ring This is dangerous rhetoric, but rather than stand up to it, many Republicans remained silent over the weekend. In fact, several Republicans joined Trump at a Saturday rally in Michigan, including GOP candidates for the states three highest offices: Tudor Dixon, running for governor; Matthew DePerno, running for attorney general; and Kristina Karamo, running for secretary of state. Greene, of Georgia, was also there and, as if to impress Trump with violent rhetoric of her own, told the crowd: Im not going to mince words with you all. Democrats want Republicans dead, and they have already started the killings. Story continues That is absolute insanity. And like Trumps comments directed at McConnell, its sickeningly dangerous. Not to mention false. Trump and Greene make it clear that no one disloyal is safe Saying a Republican has a DEATH WISH because he did his job and voted for legislation puts a target on the back of that Republican. Saying Democrats have already started the killings provides a justification for violence against anyone who happens to be a Democrat. Openly spouting a racist nickname against a woman of Asian heritage tells people, during a time of rising anti-Asian hate crimes, that its OK to be hateful. Former President Donald Trump and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene at a golf tournament in Bedminster, N.J., on July 30, 2022. And this all happened over the course of TWO DAYS! Republicans keep their mouths shut in face of Trump's hatefulness Any serious response from so-called reasonable Republican elected leaders? Nope. GOP Sen. Rick Scott, asked several times about Trump's words, told CNN he doesn't "condone violence" and added the useless, mealy mouthed comment: "I hope no one is racist." How courageous. Republican leaders wont say a thing, even to defend themselves, even when its clear Trump and his MAGA minions have loyalty only to themselves. Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store. For the sizable swath of voters and politicians who remain loyal to Trump despite his falling approval numbers, this is not the behavior of a political party. This is the behavior of a cult: fealty to one individual; zero tolerance for any who stray from the core beliefs; threats of violence toward any who step out of line; characterizing those who disagree as existential threats. MAGA followers think you are not a Democrat; you are a member of a party now actively killing Republicans. You are not a mainstream conservative; you are a person with a death wish. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell in 2022. How can Americans of good conscience not come together to shut this down? How is it possible those of us who see how wildly messed up this all is cant come together as one in condemnation? How is it possible for Republicans to continue supporting a malignant figure who would unleash his hateful hounds on them in a heartbeat? As Trump and pathetic wannabes like Greene have committed outrage after outrage after outrage, each time sinking to new depths, theres a common refrain: Ignore them. Dont give them the attention they crave. Like it or not, Trump and Greene have power and stand to gain more Thats fine if youre fending off a meaningless internet troll, but as I've said already, Trump is likely to be the next Republican candidate for president. And he is, of course, a former president. Hes not nobody. Greene is a big-time fundraiser for Republicans and someone routinely praised by Trump and revered by his loyal followers. As much as wed like her to be nobody, shes not. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga. These cartoonish MAGA knuckleheads have power, and if we dont denounce them, if we dont vote them into oblivion, they stand to gain more. Real danger could follow because as they made clear over just one weekend, they will come for you if youre an apostate Republican. They will come for you if youre a Democrat because theyll be told youre coming for them. Let's stop dancing around it and call the MAGA movement what it is They will come for any who question them. Because theyre not a political movement.. Theyre a dangerous and swiftly worsening cult. And they need to be denounced by everyone, including Republicans who still value basic human decency. Then they need to be rejected by voters, en masse and with thunderous force. Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on Twitter @RexHuppke and Facebook: facebook.com/RexIsAJerk More columns from Rex Huppke: Clarence Thomas must address Ginni Thomas' balmy conspiratorial beliefs Lizzo plays James Madison's crystal flute while racists play dog whistles Ken Paxton heroically runs from subpoena. Here's a new political ad on his bravery. You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump hurls violent threat, racist comment at Mitch McConnell, wife Devotion, a drama about a group of elite fighter pilots during the Korean War, will screen at the opening night of the Urbanworld Film Festival. The Sony Pictures and Black Label Media production was directed by J.D. Dillard and stars Jonathan Majors, who will serve as the festivals official ambassador. HBO will return as a founding partner of the Urbanworld Film Festival, and Visa will serve as presenting partner. The festival will take place from Oct. 26 to Oct. 30. More from Variety This years slate is incredibly impressive, said Karen McMullen, head of programming. We have some of the top artists in the industry as well as exciting new voices premiering their films at Urbanworld. It has been a privilege working alongside this organization as we move into our 26th year as a festival. We cant wait to see everyone in person in New York City to help us celebrate our dynamic films and filmmakers. In addition to the opening night screening of Devotion, the festival will screen more than 100 film entries, which includes submissions from the United Kingdom, Colombia, China, New Zealand, France, Mexico and Japan. Among the notable films and series, supporting partner Peacock will present a special screening of Malcolm D. Lees The Best Man: The Final Chapters, followed by a conversation with Lee. Urbanworld will then present Lee with the Full Circle Award for his continuous return to the festival, where he premiered the original The Best Man film in 1999. Supporting partner Starz will also host an exclusive screening of The BMF Documentary: Blowing Money Fast, which is a limited event series that chronicles the rise and fall of Black Mafia Family founders Demetrius Big Meech and Terry Southwest T Flenory, brothers who built a cocaine empire. Story continues But the festival is about more than movies and shows. Prestige Partner Warner Bros. Discovery will host for the Festivals second year the Urbanworld Innovation Summit, which will convene industry experts to share insights on how content creation, financing, distribution and marketing has changed with the explosion of digital platforms. Urbanworld has always been a leader in the connection between storytelling, technology and culture by providing an unmatched platform for world class artists, films and new media solutions whether youre in a creative industry or the business world, said Sharese Bullock-Bailey, festival director and chief innovation officer. Visa, will award $50,000 in cash prizes across the festival, including a top prize of $25,000 to the winner of the Innovation Summits FinTech Pitch Competition, powered by Visa. It will feature multicultural and LGBTQ FinTech founders and entrepreneurs, who will pitch a panel of Visa executives and noted investors for a chance to win financing toward their proposed initiative. Returning Prestige Partner Ally Financial will also offer a $5,000 prize to the winner of the festivals Moguls in the Making Creative Producer category, as well as host a panel discussion on The Future of Film Finance for Filmmakers and Creatives. The Urbanworld Innovation Summit will join this years five-day film festival lineup, which includes a full slate of domestic and international narrative feature-length films, documentaries, shorts, animation, experimental media, music videos and a young creators showcase. Click here for a full list of programming. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks earlier this year. In a decision that surprised county officials, Gov. Gavin Newsom last week vetoed a bill that would have restored certain pension benefits for an estimated 3,200 Ventura County public employees. Assembly Bill 826 required that payments the county government made to the employees to buy health insurance count in the compensation used to calculate their pensions. To qualify, the county workers had to be hired before a state pension reform law took effect in 2013, be enrolled as of the date of an adverse California Supreme Court decision on July 30, 2020 and retire by Dec. 31, 2025. More: County employees face cutbacks to retirement checks after court decision Lower-paid employees may see their pensions fall by an average of 7% to 10% under previous estimates, Shawn Atin, the county's personnel chief, said Friday. Employees of the large Ventura County government have received a benefit called the "flex credit" since 1989 that they use to buy county-provided health insurance. Then two years ago, legal counsel for the county pension board found a large portion of the benefit was an "in-kind," non-cash contribution that could not count for pensions based on the state Supreme Court's ruling on the constitutionality of the 2013 pension law. Attorneys for the county and labor unions strongly objected to that interpretation but they have not received court relief and now the legislative solution has been blocked. Trustees for the pension system are due to discuss the governor's action Monday instead of implementing the reprieve. Retirement Administrator Linda Webb said the pension system follows the law. "Had the law changed, we would have changed with it," she said. "But it didn't as a result of the veto." Kevin Aguayo, president of a union representing hundreds of Ventura County firefighters, said he was disappointed with the veto, but that it was not the end of the world. He said he did not know whether the effort was dead until he hears what the pension trustees say Monday. Story continues Newsom said he sympathized with workers who may see lower pension checks than they expected, but found the bill would create an incentive to run afoul of the 2013 pension law, called the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act. The governor said that the provisions of Assembly Bill 826, while narrower than previous versions, "attempt to circumvent recent court decisions, undermine the intent of the reform act and expose local governments to increased cost and litigation." State Assemblywoman Jacqui Irwin, D-Thousand Oaks, authored the bill. She said in a statement that she was disappointed with the veto, calling the legislation a "narrow bill" that would have ensured workers received the pension benefits they paid for and were promised. She said that contrary to the governor's statement, the bill explicitly complied with important pension reforms. "This veto only increases the likelihood of expensive, unnecessary litigation, which is unfair to these employees and taxpayers," Irwin said after Newsom vetoed the bill Thursday. More news: Newsom approves farmworker unionization law Kathleen Wilson covers the Ventura County government, including the county health system, politics and social services. Reach her at kathleen.wilson@vcstar.com or 805-437-0271. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: California governor blocks pension rescue for Ventura county employees WARWICK When Jenny Reich of Barrington went to the Rhode Island premiere of "Hocus Pocus 2" on Thursday, she was hoping for an answer to one question: Did she, who was cast as an extra, make it into the movie? Other Rhode Islanders may be asking themselves throughout the Disney movie: Do I recognize that place? The movie, a sequel to 1993's "Hocus Pocus," follows the Sanderson sisters, three witches brought back to life from 1600s Salem, as they terrorize the modern-day Massachusetts town while three teens stand in their way. "They say it's 'Salem,' but. c'mon, we all know it's really Rhode Island," Steven Feinberg, executive director of the Rhode Island Film & TV office told one of 15 audiences that watched a special "cast and crew" screening Thursday before the general streaming release Friday. Hocus Pocus 2 in RI: A 1670s village rises in Lincoln park. Will it meet a fiery end? Witches are expected. The entire Showcase Cinemas, all 15 auditoriums, was reserved for 1,200 invited guests extras, crew members, vendors who supplied the production, VIPs and their plus-ones. Jenny Reich, of Barrington, an extra in "Hocus Pocus 2," poses for a friend before a Thursday night "cast and crew" screening of the movie, which is being released on streaming Friday. The Providence Journal watched "Hocus Pocus 2" alongside Reich, and here's what Rhode Islanders will and will not find familiar in the movie, which was shot entirely in the Ocean State. What to know about 'Hocus Pocus 2': Excited about 'Hocus Pocus 2'? What you need to know now that the movie is out 'Hocus Pocus 2' spoilers: Warning, minor plot points mentioned Here's how Rhode Island appears in the movie: Lincoln Chase Farm Park It was no secret last year that Disney built a life-size replica of 1600s Salem 1653 to be precise, the movie reveals at the town park and closed off the street running by it for several days of filming. Rumors were rampant that the village would be burned to the ground to film a climactic final scene. Moviegoers don't have to wait to see how Disney used the fake village, as it's in the opening scenes of "Hocus Pocus 2." Story continues Not long after, viewers will find out what became of the fire. Last week, workers on the set of Hocus Pocus 2 is being constructed at Chase Farm in Lincoln. The Conjuring: What happens at Rhode Island's 'Conjuring House' ghost hunting tour? We found out Providence Moses Brown School The East Side private school's campus doubles as the campus for the Salem high school. La Salle Academy The Catholic high school doubles as the halls and classrooms of the Salem high school. Atwells Avenue Doubles for a Salem street, including a stop at the Walgreens, which several characters enter to go shopping. The Sanderson sisters fly here. Benefit Street Stretches of the Colonial-looking street play roles as streets in modern-day Salem. Cranston Street Armory The Forbidden Woods, which plays a central role in the plot, were built in a sound stage in the armory. East Providence Newman Congregational Church, Cemetery The church and cemetery, across Newman Avenue from each other in the city's Rumford section, are featured in cemetery shots. Filmed in RI: How a Newport sitting room inspired Julian Fellowes to make HBO's 'Gilded Age' North Kingstown Quonset Business Park The Magic Shop, which plays a central role in the plot, was built on a sound stage in the industrial park. While the stage was used for interior and exterior shots, some street scenes outside the shop were filmed in Newport. Newport Washington Square Several scenes taking place at a Halloween carnival in modern-day Salem were filmed in Washington Square. A member of the 'Hocus Pocus 2' film crew works on one of the booths set up on Washington Square in Newport in November 2021. Just under an hour into the movie, Reich spotted herself and her daughter, 25-year-old Cornell University medical student Dustine Reich, who couldn't attend the premiere. "We're behind a police officer," Reich said as the movie played. Afterward, she acknowledged that, while she recognized herself and daughter, nobody else probably would. "It was three seconds, a blur," she said of the product of her 12 to 14 hours of work on a cold day in Newport. On stage: What's it like to play 15 roles in 'Mean Girls'? Ask South Kingstown's Grace Romanello As an extra, she said she was paid a little bit more than minimum wage. But would she have done it for free? "To be in a Disney picture with Bette Midler? Yeah." And, she enjoyed watching Thursday night. "I loved seeing all of Rhode Island in it." This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Hocus Pocus 2 filmed in Providence, Newport, Lincoln, RI can you tell? 18th Judicial District Attorney John Kellner at a news conference last June announcing a major drug bust by his office and other law enforcement agencies. Kellner is running for Colorado attorney general. (Associated Press) At least 133 people have died since the beginning of historic anti-hijab protests in Iran, according to a rights organisation, with over 40 of them killed in a brutal police crackdown on Friday alone. The protests, sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody, have led to unprecedented demonstrations against the countrys rigid laws requiring head covering for women. Women have come out on the streets burning their hijab and cutting their hair in defiance. The latest death toll comes from the Oslo-based organisation Iran Human Rights, which has been monitoring the demonstrations since they began in the capital Tehran where Amini was arrested by the countrys controversial morality police on 13 September. The toll maintained by the organisation stands in stark contrast to the very conservative estimate being reported by Iranian state media, which says 41 people have died including security personnel. The Iranian authorities themselves have not publicly stated any death toll. In one of the deadliest reported clampdowns on Friday, security personnel are accused of gunning down 40 people in just one evening in Zahedan, capital of the south-eastern Sistan-Baluchistan province, the rights group says. The protests have only grown in recent days and spread to more areas, despite the growing death toll. On Monday, security forces clashed with students at a prominent university in Tehran. Social media videos show security personnel firing tear gas shells at the students while some videos also contained distant sounds of firing. Students flee for their lives at Sharif University in Tehran! Please do not give up on the people of Iran...they need you more than ever! Please keep tweeting, posting, and retweeting! #MahsaAmini #ZhinaAmini pic.twitter.com/GCgtw0zvOT Yashar Ali (@yashar) October 2, 2022 Meanwhile, Amnesty International estimates at least 52 persons have been killed so far, with hundreds injured. The human rights group has alleged that several women protesting against the hijab rule have been sexually abused by the Iranian security forces. Story continues Women in #Iran have been tortured, violently assaulted and sexually abused by security forces. The international community must take action.#ProtectTheProtest pic.twitter.com/9jCzPfXKVT Amnesty International (@amnesty) October 2, 2022 Iran Human Rights also says that internet access has been severely disrupted or completely cut in many parts over the last 10 days. The killing of protesters in Iran, especially in Zahedan, amounts to crimes against humanity, Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, the director of Iran Human Rights, said in a statement. The international community has a duty to investigate this crime and prevent further crimes from being committed by the Islamic Republic. Amini, a Kurdish woman, was detained by the controversial morality police unit that enforces the countrys obligatory dress codes on women, including the compulsory wearing of the headscarf in public. Officials say that she died due to a heart attack three days later while in custody. However, Aminis family alleged she was assaulted in custody and had visible marks of injury to her body. Her death has ignited the countrys masses against the orthodox rules the Iranian government has been enforcing on women since the Islamic revolution in the 1970s. Serial killer Jeffrey Dahmers name has been woven into the lyrics of a number of songs over the years, from tracks recorded by Katy Perry and Eminem to Keshas 2010 track Cannibal. In response to recent controversy discussed on social media regarding pop culture references to Dahmer, Keshas mother, Pebe Sebert a songwriter and non-profit founder who has a co-writing credit on Cannibal says shes the one who wrote the lyric Ill pull a Jeffrey Dahmer. The whole Jeffrey Dahmer lyric in Cannibal is a big controversy right now, and I thought Id just say a few things about it because that was my line that I wrote in Cannibal.' Sebert said in a TikTok video uploaded on Sunday (Oct. 2). She filmed herself in Panama, where she was on her way to an event put on by her non-profit organization, The Magic Mission. More from Billboard At the time, Kesha and the other writer were too young to even know who Jeffrey Dahmer was. Literally the way it happened was I have this rhyming program called MasterWriter for songwriters. We were looking for a rhyme for goner. At the very end of the widest rhymes was Jeffrey Dahmer. And I was like, Oh my god, thats the perfect lyric,' she said. Related Kesha Kesha Says In Addition to Losing Her Top, She Lost Her Voice at Taylor Hawkins Tribute 10/02/2022 10/02/2022 Not to be insensitive to anybody whose families were involved in this and lost loved ones, said Sebert. At the time, it was a song that we were writing about Kesha. Kesha was not the most popular girl in high school. She ended up not even getting asked to the prom. Later on, when she got famous, all these guys that, you know, never paid any attention to her were coming around and like, Remember me? Remember me? And she was like, Yeah, now that Im famous youre up my anus. It was a tongue-in-cheek, funny song. It was not actually about cannibalism. It was just a title. Story continues Netflix released Dahmer Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, starring Evan Peters as Dahmer, on Sept. 21. The Ryan Murphy- and Ian Brennan-created limited series topped the streamers top 10 list the week of its release. Between 1978 and 1991, Dahmer gruesomely murdered 17 men; family members of Dahmers victims have criticized Netflix for profiting off of their tragic stories. In her TikTok clip about Cannibal, Sebert said: Im sorry for anyone whos lost a family member in this tragedy. We certainly never meant to hurt anybody or make anybody feel bad. Theres a movie [Netflixs Dahmer limited series] out right now thats kind of bringing attention back. That songs been out for more than 10 years, probably almost 12 years. This is not something that wed recently written. The song is featured on Keshas 2010 EP of the same name, which followed that years release of her debut full-length album, Animal. The Cannibal EP also included songs like Blow and We R Who We R. Once again, Jeffrey Dahmers name wouldnt even be in the song if it wasnt for the MasterWriter that threw his name up there because he was a person who became famous, unfortunately, because of what he did. Jeffrey Dahmer was just part of the culture back then. Everybody talked about him for many years. What he had done was so extreme and so worse than anything anyone had ever done that anybody knew about, Sebert said. Besides being a songwriter, Sebert is founder of The Magic Mission, which she launched in September to better the lives of street dogs. According to the organizations website, The Magic Mission is dedicated to stopping the overpopulation, abuse and homelessness of dogs and cats in Latin America through orchestrating and funding sterilization blitzes (Sebert explains exactly how those events operate in this TikTok video), health services, and community education. Find out more about The Magic Mission and how to get involved here. Click here to read the full article. Kim Kardashian launched a new podcast, The System, to delve into wrongful convictions. Her first episodes focus on Kevin Keith, who was convicted in 1994 of a triple homicide in Bucyrus, Ohio. Kim Kardashian launched a podcast, The System, to focus on wrongful convictions and picked a notorious Ohio case for her first episodes. The podcast, which streams on Spotify, delves into the case of Kevin Keith, who was convicted in a triple slaying in Bucyrus in 1994. Three others were wounded. Listen to The AccusedA special project from The Cincinnati Enquirer, part of the USA TODAY Network Kevin Keith is the subject of a new podcast by Kim Kardashian that explores wrongful convictions. A Crawford County jury found Keith guilty and he was sentenced to death, but in September 2010, then-Gov. Ted Strickland commuted Keith's sentence to life without parole. Keith has unsuccessfully appealed his sentence many times. Kardashian took an interest in Keith's case in July 2019. In the first 35-minute episode, Kardashian explores Keith's alibi and interviews a journalist, Keith's brother, his attorney and others. "Kevin Keith's case should concern anyone who is concerned with the integrity of the system," said Ohio Supreme Court Justice Michael Donnelly, who gave an interview to Kardashian for the podcast. Donnelly said he agreed to the interview "to demonstrate the need to reform the post conviction process in Ohio for those who claim they are wrongly convicted." This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Kim Kardashian's new podcast digs into the Ohio case of Kevin Keith IRYNA BALACHUK SATURDAY, 1 OCTOBER 2022, 15:58 Negotiations with the Russian Federation may resume on the condition that the Russian army leaves the entire territory of Ukraine, including Crimea. Source: Ukraines Presidents Office, citing an interview of Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the Head of the Presidents Office, to Italian outlet La Repubblica Quote from Podoliak: "Russia does not want to negotiate it only launches ultimatums. If the Russian army leaves the entire territory of Ukraine, including Crimea, the negotiations could resume". Details: Podoliak also emphasised that neither Russia's announcement of the annexation of occupied Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts nor the sham referendums held in these territories will change anything for Ukraine. According to Podoliak, these regions were and will remain Ukrainian, and the Ukrainian Armed Forces will fight to liberate them. Speaking of the Russian threats on using nuclear weapons, Podoliak noted that the chances of a nuclear conflict are low, but they do exist. According to him, if the world allows a complete collapse of international nuclear security, Ukraine will not be the only one to suffer catastrophic consequences. Under such conditions, a global response to a possible nuclear attack will have to be given, in particular, within the EU and NATO, the Presidents Office representative is convinced. Background: Earlier on 30 September, during the sham and legally invalid "signing of agreements on accession to Russia", Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that he had wanted to end hostilities and "bring Ukraine back to the negotiating table". President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is ready for negotiations with Russia, but only with another president of the Russian Federation, not with Vladimir Putin. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda! RICHMOND, Ind. A Richmond man has been sentenced to a decade of incarceration after admitting he stabbed a man. Maurice William Harper, 36, pleaded guilty to Level 3 felony aggravated battery after reaching a plea agreement with the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, according to Judge Gregory Horn's sentencing order added last week to the case record. The deal dismissed two Level 2 felony robbery counts and a Level 5 felony battery charge. Horn sentenced Harper to 12 years with two years suspended to probation as required by the plea agreement. Nine years is the advisory sentence for a Level 3 felony. Harper remains in Wayne County's jail waiting transfer to the Indiana Department of Correction. When sentenced, he received credit for 536 days served and 179 good-time days. With the maximum good-time credit, the sentence's executed portion would be 7 years. Harper was jailed March 25, 2021, after Richmond Police Department officers responded about 1:20 a.m. to Apartment A6 at Jerry Geier Apartments, 2001 W. Main St., according to an affidavit of probable cause. They found Jacob Layne with lacerations on both sides of his neck, a severely damaged ear and stab wounds to his torso and side. Another resident, Aaron Jones, also had been attacked. Layne told investigators that he had visited Harper's apartment about 4 p.m. the previous day and was attacked by Harper and another man, the affidavit said. The men took $250 from him. Harper later contacted Layne, then was one of three men to enter Layne's apartment, according to he affidavit. Harper attacked Jones upstairs while Layne was tased by another man downstairs. When Harper returned downstairs, he punched Layne, then grabbed him from behind. Layne fell to a kneeling position, and Harper stabbed him. Harper has a previous felony conviction for battery of a pregnant woman and previous misdemeanor convictions for domestic battery and disorderly conduct, according to court records. This article originally appeared on Richmond Palladium-Item: Richmond man receives 10 years of incarceration for 2021 stabbing Ever since Will Smith won an Oscar and slapped Chris Rock his career has been in free-fall. Now the erstwhile Fresh Prince is out to prove there's still some sheen to his crown. Apple screened the new film Emancipation from director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) and starring Smith as Peter, an enslaved man who runs away from Louisiana in search of his family and ends up joining the Union Army. The fate of the film, as well as a number of Smith's projects, was up in the air after the-slap-not-seen-but-talked-about-around-the-world. But Apple, which produced Emancipation, hosted a screening with the NAACP during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 51st Annual Legislative Conference before an audience of social impact leaders, signaling its intention to release the film soon. And with the Oscars just around the corner. Will Smith Neilson Barnard/Getty Will Smith wins Best Actor for 'King Richard' at the 2022 Oscars Following the screening, Smith, who has kept a rather low profile since the last Academy Awards, participated in a conversation with Fuqua, and Mary Elliott, curator of American Slavery at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, moderated by political and cultural commentator Angela Rye. "Throughout my career, I've turned down many films that were set in slavery," Smith said at the screening. "I never wanted to show us like that. And then this picture came along. And this is not a film about slavery. This is a film about freedom. This is a film about resilience. This is a film about faith." New York's Harper's Weekly, the most widely-read journal during the Civil War, published an infamous image of the real-life Peter, (or Gordon, or "Whipped Peter") with horrific scars on his back in 1863. The photo, which Smith referred to as "the first viral image," provided Northerners with visual evidence of the brutality of slavery and inspired free Blacks to join the Union Army. "This is a film about the heart of a man what could be called the first viral image," Smith said. "Cameras had just been created, and the image of 'Whipped Peter' went around the world. It was a rallying cry against slavery, and this was a story that exploded and blossomed in my heart that I wanted to be able to deliver to you in a way that only Antoine Fuqua could deliver." Story continues The film, and Smith, were greeted with a warm reception, with NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson calling it "a story of adversity, of resilience, of love, and of triumph." I had the pleasure of watching the film #Emancipation and cant begin to tell how powerful this is for OUR community and OUR history. Its a story of adversity, of resilience, of love, and of triumph. Thank you Antoine Fuqua and Will Smith for sharing your gifts!#ThisIsPower Derrick Johnson (@DerrickNAACP) October 1, 2022 However, should Smith and Emancipation generate any Oscar buzz, Smith won't be able to attend the ceremony, or any ceremony, for another 10 years. Want more movie news? Sign up for Entertainment Weekly's free newsletter to get the latest trailers, celebrity interviews, film reviews, and more. Related content: The Supreme Court on Monday will hear arguments of a case between Idaho landowners and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a dispute that could redefine the scope of the countrys clean water regulations. The first case of the justices new term, landing just ahead of the Clean Water Acts 50th anniversary, will feature arguments about wetlands and when they can or cannot be regulated by the federal government. Although technical in nature, the legal dispute could have broad implications for the countrys water quality if the 6-3 conservative majority court uses the case to narrow the EPAs regulatory reach. If thats what the Supreme Court should decide, were basically rolling back the clock 50 years, said Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.), who chairs a House panel on water resources and the environment. That would remove 50 percent of our critical wetlands, and 70 percent of our rivers and streams from federal protection. The case began in 2007 when Michael and Chantell Sackett were told they needed a federal permit to build a home on land they owned because it contained wetlands, prompting the Sacketts to sue. A federal court, siding with the U.S. government, ruled that the wetlands on the Sacketts property contained a significant nexus with other regulated waters, meaning the couple would need authorization to build there. The Sacketts are now urging the Supreme Court to discard the significant nexus threshold. Instead, their petition favors a separate test from former Justice Antonin Scalia that called for the waters to have a continuous surface water connection a higher threshold that would apply to fewer wetlands. The stakes of this case, however, go far beyond one property dispute. It attracted briefs from environmental groups, which argue that it would hamper the governments ability to keep people safe from pollution, as well as industries like farming, mining, construction and oil and gas, which support the deregulatory effort. Story continues This is a very, very, big deal for the Clean Water Act. It will determine, likely, whether the Clean Water Act can protect half of the water bodies in the country, and if it cant, meeting the water quality goals of the law that we all count on will be virtually impossible, said Jon Devine, who leads the Natural Resources Defense Councils federal water policy team. The case appears to mirror regulatory differences between the Trump administrations efforts to limit regulations to just wetlands with continuous surface water connections to other regulated waters, and the Obama administrations regulations, which applied the significant nexus test. A total of 51 percent of the countrys wetlands would not be protected under the Trump-era rule, according to a slideshow obtained by E&E News. The Biden administration has proposed to regulate some wetlands that meet the significant nexus standard. And while the Sacketts petition to the court appears to be in support of the continuous surface water test, in their opening court brief, they propose a separate test. They say that a wetland should be inseparably bound up with another regulated water and also subject to Congresss authority over interstate waters. Damien Schiff, a lawyer representing the Sacketts said that abiding by the Clean Water Act can be significantly burdensome, both in the application process itself and in the requirements to mitigate environmental damage. Whenever the Clean Water Act applies, it does add a significant financial burden, not just because there is a lot of costs involved in the application process but also just simply the cost of compensatory mitigation, said Schiff, a senior attorney at the Pacific Legal Foundation. He said that the Army Corps of Engineers might very well issue a permit, but typically not only is the permit issued for a much smaller project than was originally requested but its always accompanied by a pretty significant compensatory mitigation obligation and that can run into the hundreds of thousands if not millions of dollars. A looser test would be expected to apply to fewer wetlands, allowing individuals and corporations to act there without EPA oversight. Under the current system, many polluters are also not necessarily blocked from carrying out activities in regulated waters. Instead, they may need to either apply for a permit that contains stipulations that they follow environmental safeguards, or follow existing stipulations in a general permit that gives a blanket waiver to certain activities. But environmentalists say that while pollution still occurs when permits are in place, the stipulations they offer are important for averting the worst damages. This case is not about prohibiting construction or development, its about what safeguards are in place when someone does so, Devine said. Environmentalists say that this pollution may end up in Americas drinking water and also harm fish that people catch for consumption. And while many public water systems are treated to prevent pollution, some people get their water from private wells, which may not get the same level of treatment. Drinking water does have standards, but that doesnt mean that all those standards are perfect and the pollution that comes in through those sources means more cost of treatment. It means that people who live on wells or in areas where the water treatment systems arent as big or fancy or as expensive are going to suffer, said Sam Sankar, senior vice president of programs at Earthjustice. Sankar said his organization has 18 tribes as clients, and many of them will face direct impacts. The court began its work Monday after an epochal term in which the six Republican-appointed justices advanced an aggressive conservative legal agenda. The case will be the first that is heard by Ketanji Brown Jackson in her tenure as a Supreme Court justice. Although overshadowed by the courts overruling of Roe v. Wade, last term saw the court vote 6-3 to pare back federal agency power in West Virginia v. EPA, a case that reined in the governments authority to regulate carbon emissions from power plants. Court watchers believe the conservative majority court will continue its rightward trajectory this term. Theres no reason to think this coming term, or any term in the foreseeable future, will be any different, Irv Gornstein, executive director of Georgetown Laws Supreme Court Institute said recently. On things that matter most, get ready for a lot of 6-3s. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BERLIN (AP) Swiss police used rubber bullets to disperse protesters in front of the Iranian Embassy in Bern after two men climbed over the embassy's fence and pulled down the Iranian flag from a flagpole in the yard. Police said late Saturday that nobody was injured and that the large crowd of protesters was dispersed after the use of rubber bullets. The two protesters who entered the embassy's grounds were detained, according to police in the Swiss capital. Police said they used rubber bullets after several other protesters at the unauthorized demonstration tried following the two men who had first entered the embassy's yard and also attempted to access the premises. It wasn't immediately clear if more protesters were detained. Thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets over the last two weeks in protests over the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who had been detained by the morality police in the capital, Tehran, for allegedly wearing her mandatory Islamic headscarf too loosely. Outside of Iran, thousands of protesters have also staged demonstrations in European countries and elsewhere over the death of Amini. They've also expressed anger over the treatment of women and wider repression in the Islamic Republic. Next time I do van life, I'm doing it a lot differently. Zoe Hannah I traveled New Zealand for a year and a half, mostly living out of my camper van with my boyfriend. Next time, I'd be more open to talking to neighbors and customizing my van earlier in my trip. Although I was grateful to be able to return to domestic life, I still miss van life. After my boyfriend and I spent over a year hopping from van life to hostels, Airbnbs, and work stays in New Zealand, I was looking forward to the simple pleasures of living in a house back home in the US . All things considered, I spent about a year total in the van with a few breaks for the COVID-19 lockdown, the winter months, and some working stints. Our van was outfitted with a simple kitchen, a bed, and a table, but we worked throughout the year to customize it just for us. I have no regrets about how I spent my time traveling, and I'd do van life again in a heartbeat. But there were a lot of lessons learned along the way and things that would've made adjusting to and living in the van a lot easier. Here are 10 things I plan to do differently when I set off on my next van-life adventure. It's wise to rent a camper van first instead of buying one Although my boyfriend warned me that we should rent a camper van before buying one an effort to make sure we really wanted to live this way for the next year I didn't listen. After just a day in New Zealand, I was anxious about how expensive hostels were, my lack of income, and our lack of freedom without our own vehicle. We ended up buying our van after just five days in the country and immediately started living out of it. The culture shock hit me hard. On one of our first nights, we neglected to refill our fuel and water tanks before heading out to camp. We also quickly realized how much gear we'd need to make this situation work. If we'd rented instead, we could've relied on a rental company to handle some issues or help us troubleshoot. We also would've been able to afford a nicer build if we borrowed instead of purchased. Story continues Overall, I suggest you rent or borrow a friend's build first and make sure you're cut out for the lifestyle before you commit. Zoe Hannah Next time, I'd be friendlier with the neighbors more often Many of New Zealand's freedom camping sites, where travelers can park certified self-contained vehicles overnight for free, are remote and far out of the way. Others are located right in the center of a town, in the parking lot used for weekend farmers' markets or a local school. In these situations, we often found ourselves parked with just a few feet of space between us and another freedom camper. I wish I was friendlier with those neighbors earlier on because it's likely I missed out on meeting some great people because I was too shy to interact with strangers. Later, some of our best friends would be people we met while freedom camping, including one couple we ended up staying with several times before leaving the country. I wish we'd spent more time talking to strangers. Zoe Hannah I wish I'd set harder boundaries with my personal space Even in New Zealand, where freedom camping is widespread and generally accepted, passersby are still enamored with (or annoyed by) the collection of vans. These people were usually friendly, but we still felt like a bit of a spectacle. Although I tried to be open to chatting with strangers, I reached a point of needing to set boundaries about where the public ended and my personal space began. After all, when these people came up to me early in the morning, I'd likely just rolled out of bed and was preparing my first coffee on my impromptu front porch. It can be socially exhausting, as well as unsafe and an invasion of privacy, to constantly have people peeking into your kitchen, bedroom, living room, and car all at once. As I got more comfortable in the country, I got better at setting hard lines with people who got too close, or avoiding interactions altogether if I was just too spent. Lack of privacy is a huge part of the lifestyle if you can't accept that, it might not be right for you. Zoe Hannah It would've been wise to take a few weeks to set up the van before moving in We started living in our van as soon as we owned it, with just a few nights in hostels and at friends' houses here and there. So any time we wanted to clean, take stock of our stuff, or upgrade the van, we had to do it all in one shot because we'd have to sleep on the bed at the end of the night. If I'd given myself the time to set up before moving in, I probably would've avoided a lot of my early frustrations about van life. Booking an Airbnb or hostel for the first week or two that you own your van will change your experience altogether. Zoe Hannah We should've budgeted for smaller upgrades To prepare for spring, we emptied our van, rebuilt part of our kitchen, and updated a lot of things we'd been meaning to do for months. But once we were traveling, we kept noticing little things that would enhance our experience even more. We wanted to add bungee cords to our shelves so spices didn't go flying on bumpy roads, hang net pockets to store our books above the bed, and string lights across the ceiling. These small upgrades were totally worth it they were a fun way to spend time together and were genuinely useful but we weren't prepared to continue spending money on the van. It would've been frugal to budget for these smaller projects, most of which are inexpensive and only take a few minutes to implement. Next time, I won't be as afraid to spend money on a hostel I refrained from staying in hostels for most of the trip except when it was absolutely necessary. We often chose to stay in the van even when staying inside was an option because it truly was our home base. Hostels felt like a hassle, since all of our clothes, toiletries, and cooking supplies were already set up in the van. But as we got closer to leaving, I began to occasionally take advantage of New Zealand's many affordable backpacker hostels and campgrounds. Eventually, I realized these small breaks from the van kept me from getting sick of it. They also offered my boyfriend and me some much-needed space after spending all of our time within a few feet of each other. We stayed in hostels later in our trip in part because both of us had landed freelance contracts to help pay for any accommodation. Zoe Hannah We should've made strategic travel plans from the start About 10 months into our time in New Zealand, we realized we still had friends all over the country to say farewell to and a long list of places we wanted to return for a second dip. Our last few months were planned better than our entire trip, and I wish that's what we'd done the whole year. Although our plans changed often, we had regular conversations about where we wanted to be in the next weeks, what we wanted to see, and how much time we wanted to spend doing it. This allowed us to plan our travels so we could see everything we wanted to and stop in towns for necessary goods and services along the way. Next time, I'll have a go-to bad weather plan Each time bad weather struck, we scrambled to figure out our next move. It's not as if you can't do van life in crappy weather, but our vehicle was small and long bouts of rain would leave us perpetually damp and uncomfortable. I wish we had determined a budget and a go-to plan for these bad weather days because we often ended up dipping into our money to stay at campgrounds or hostels. During cold months, when we used our sleeping bags and hot water bottles to keep warm, it would've been especially nice to have a plan for a hot shower and a cozy bed. Zoe Hannah I should've planned more time for myself while also incorporating social gatherings into my travels Van life can offer the ultimate freedom, especially in a hospitable country like New Zealand. We often spent several days at a time isolated from most other campers at a freedom camp in the mountains or by the beach. The lifestyle could be isolating at times, but we made lots of friends who also had vans, and often we'd run into them or plan to meet up at campsites or on the road. Between all of the hiking, driving, remote working, and traveling, we often forgot to make time both for ourselves and for socializing. Eventually, we started working alone time and social gatherings into our travels. Socializing while traveling can be incredibly taxing to counterbalance, we planned bouts of solo travel after seeing friends. Zoe Hannah If we try van life again, I'll make more time to rest between spurts of travel As we got further into our trip, we became more ambitious about everything we wanted to see in New Zealand. We ended up on the road more often than not, trying to see our friends while also making time for overnight hikes and working days in the library. Although there's something to be said for doing as much as you can every day while traveling, this wasn't just a vacation we lived a somewhat normal life there for over a year, and a normal life should include some relaxation. I wish I'd planned more rest between spurts of intense travel, so I could give all my energy to the next adventure. Read the original article on Insider ARMENIA-AZERBAIJAN-CONFLICT A view of Sotk, Armenia, which is said to have been hit by Azeri shelling during recent clashes with Azerbaijan, on Sept. 14, 2022. Credit - Karen MinasyanAFP via Getty Images Few would be surprised to hear that the United States is involved in supporting a democratic nation that was recently invaded by its authoritarian neighbor. But many Americans are likely unaware that their country is doing so for two such post-Soviet nations: not just Ukraine, but also Armenia, which has been suffering from Azerbaijans invasion for almost three weeks now. The two situations are not unrelated. A key factor behind the ongoing U.S. engagement in Armenia is Russias visible absence in a region that the latter considers its backyard. But the U.S. isnt simply trying to push Russia out from the post-Soviet South Caucasus. Rather, Washington seems to have realized just how serious the threat isnot just for Armenia, but for the world. In the early minutes of Sept. 13, as families across eastern Armenia slept, Azerbaijan launched the unprovoked shelling of three dozen Armenian towns with heavy artillery and unmanned combat drones. The two countries have been locked in off-and-on hostilities for decades over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh republic, but Azerbaijans regime now seems to take advantage of its rivals military unpreparedness and global, especially Russian, distraction. Azerbaijan attempted to deny having attacked within Armenias borders, but the onslaught was so intense that NASAs fire-management satellites detected massive thermal anomalies. In just two days, Azerbaijans forces killed over 200 Armenians, primarily soldiers, according to official government counts. Videos spread by the invaders appeared to show them giggling while mutilating fallen Armenian women, and executing Armenian soldiers who had surrendered. Read more: Inside Azerbaijans Grand Plan To Make the Disputed City of Shusha a Cultural Capital Further details of the incursion came via Armenia-based journalists and officials alike. On Sept. 14, foreign journalists reported having come under Azerbaijani shelling in the Armenian town of Sotk, which is nowhere near military installations. The following day, at the United Nations Security Council emergency hearing, Armenia disclosed that, despite the prior days ceasefire, Azerbaijan is amassing additional troops, including in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijans exclave bordering southwest Armenia. This would open a second invasion front. On Sept. 23, Western embassies in Yerevan issued still-active travel warnings for southern Armenia and beyond, insinuating that they expected further attacks. Still, many media outlets across the world lack on-the-ground regional journalists, so the news from Armenia largely stayed off the mainstream radar. Story continues It was not until U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Armenia the weekend of Sept. 17, in support of Armenian security and democracy against Azerbaijans illegal and deadly attacks, that it became fully clear that the U.S., in a dramatic transformation, is fully engaged, albeit probably only diplomatically, in preventing existential threats against Armenia. Armenia's Head of the Parliament Alen Simonyan (R) and U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (L) attend a joint press conference in the Parliament in Yerevan, Armenia, on Sept. 18, 2022. Karen MinasyanAFP via Getty Images Jackie Speier, one of the two Armenian-American Congresswomen to accompany Speaker Pelosi, recalled at a large Armenian-American gathering in Los Angeles on Sept. 25 that in Armenia she told their dinner host, the Prime Minister, that she didnt want another girl to feel the way she did growing up: reluctant to identify as Armenian because her homeland, then part of the USSR, did not appear on a worlds map. As the Congresswoman announced at the gathering, she is introducing a resolution in condemnation of and accountability for Azerbaijans war crimes and aggression, following a similar motion by prominent House Democrat Adam Schiff, and a bipartisan Senate resolution introduced by key Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio. But this is not about internal electoral politics. More significantlyespecially as Congress has been historically attentive to Armenian American constituency concernsthe White House has now transformed its traditionally both-sidist rhetoric on the conflict. It was the U.S., not the regional hegemon Russia, that played the key role in halting Azerbaijans Sept. 13-14 aggression. Since then, the Biden Administration has initiated numerous meetings for and with Armenian and Azerbaijani officials, both in person and on the phone, despite threats by Azerbaijans authoritarian presidentwho has made Armenophobia his power-consolidation formula since inheriting the presidency in 2003that no one and nothing can stop us. U.S. engagement may also come as a surprise given that Armenia is formally part of CSTO (Collective Security Treaty Organization), Russias failed mini-version of NATO. Preoccupied with its failing invasion of Ukraine and forced mobilization of troops, Russia is both unable and unwilling to defend its treaty ally Armenia today. But in 2020 and 2021, during previous rounds of aggression by Azerbaijan, Russia likewise chose not to do more to defend its ally, despite having had the military might to do so. On paper, Russia is democratic Armenias security guarantor. In reality, Russia and Azerbaijan, two fossil fuel-rich authoritarian states, are much closer; the unwavering support for the latter by Turkey, which has become an ever-more important partner for Russia given western sanctions, complicates Russias support for Armenia even more. Today, the U.S. appears to realize that a preoccupied Russias temporary absence in the Caucasus means potential involvement from not just Turkey but also Iran, which has warned against border changes; it has a northern border with Armenia, a secure lifeline to Europe. A potential Turkey-Iran confrontation resulting from Azerbaijans invasion of Armenia could result in an unmanageable destabilization of the Middle East and beyond, something that neither Russia nor the U.S. want. The U.S.s recent involvement in the Caucasus is unprecedented. For the very first time since the Cold War, its the actions of a country other than Russia that matter most right now in the region. Will Washington succeed in preventing a full-scale invasion of democratic Armenia? Is it willing to make sacrifices to meet that goal, such as selling defense weaponry to Armenia and sanctioning Azerbaijan, despite intense Turkish pressure and European energy needs? The only public American sacrifice over the last three weeks in defense of Armenian existence appears to have come from the outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Armenia. On Sept. 28, Lynne Tracy risked her safety to travel to Syunik, Armenias southmost region, despite her own embassys travel warning against visiting the entire region. Read more: Putins Isnt the Only Regime Leveraging Fossil Fuels for Aggression Earlier, President Joe Biden announced that he would nominate Tracy to serve as U.S. ambassador to Russia, a testament to her courage and to the necessity of a deeper understanding of Moscow through those who are most dependent on it. Perhaps Washington realizes that if it fails to thwart Azerbaijans next aggression, it will leave Armenia with no choice but to further integrate with Russia. Similar circumstances a century ago, in the aftermath of the Armenian Genocide, helped to revive the collapsed Russian empire into the USSR. With the possibility of further violence hanging over their talks, the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan met in Geneva on Oct. 2, as Azerbaijani special forces reportedly neared Armenias borders. Hostilities may resume any moment, given that Azerbaijans autocrat seems to have few reasons for restraint. At the Oct. 1 unveiling of a new gas pipeline to Europe, E.U. leader Ursula von der Leyen praised Azerbaijan as reliable; Europe, facing the energy impacts of its determination to punish Russia, appears willing to embolden another authoritarian aggressor. The U.S., at least in rhetoric, seems to be slightly more cautious. Whether the historyof unrealized western promises pushing a vulnerable Armenia closer to Russiawill repeat itself, this time as a cruel joke, largely depends on where American leadership goes next. Bangladeshi operator Robi Axiata hired former Ooredoo Myanmar head Rajeev Sethi as its new chief executive officer, an appointment to advance market share. Sethi replaces acting CEO and CFO M. Riyaaz Rasheed who has been leading the operator since August 2021. He will resume duties as chief financial officer. Axiata Group joint CEO Dr Hans Wijayasuriya said Rasheed was a critical anchor in delivering excellent business results and leaves Robi in a position for the next wave of growth. On his appointment, Sethi said: Over the years, it [Robi] has truly evolved into a digital telco that thrives on innovation. The best part is that the culture of innovation is deeply entrenched in Robi which bodes well for future growth. I am very confident that with the support of the team Robi, we can make significant gains in market share in the coming days. The new CEO joins after three years and a half years as CEO of Ooredoo Myanmar which Ooredoo had recently sold off to Nine Communications. Prior to that, he served as chief commercial officer at Airtel Africa. Sethi was also CEO of rival Telenor-owned Grameenphone for two years prior to Airtel Africa. He also held executive roles with Vodafone, HP, Hutchison Telecom and Asian Paints. Axiata Group joint CEOs Dr Hans Wijayasuriya and Vivek Sood said: With market leadership in 4G and digital innovation, Robi is now well poised for its next wave of growth. At this point in Robis journey, we are very happy to have a widely regarded prolific growth driver like Rajeev Sethi taking on the leadership role of Robi. Reuters Sensing that Russia has been weakened by its war in Ukraine, some of its closest allies in Central Asia are displaying a newly assertive streak. The region's five former Soviet republics are increasingly standing up to Moscow, aware of their new-found leverage as Russia looks to their markets and trade routes in a bid to circumvent Western sanctions. The new dynamic was strikingly illustrated when Russian President Vladimir Putin ran into a seven-minute tirade from the leader of Tajikistan, one of the region's smallest and poorest countries, at a summit in Kazakhstan last week. (NEXSTAR) United Airlines is cutting a dozen routes from its network partly due to reduced demand, a spokesperson for the carrier indicated. The cuts, first reported by The Points Guy, primarily affect travelers departing from Los Angeles and San Francisco, as United is cutting four routes from each of the two air hubs. The 12 routes being dropped from Uniteds schedule are: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Colorado Springs Airport LAX to Dane County Regional Airport (Madison, Wisconsin) LAX to Eugene Airport (Oregon) LAX to Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (Oregon) San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport SFO to St. Louis Lambert International Airport SFO to Will Rogers World Airport (Oklahoma City) SFO to Dane County Regional Airport Chicago OHare International Airport (ORD) to Santa Barbara Airport (California) ORD to Eugene Airport George Bush Intercontinental Airport (Houston) to Edmonton International Airport (Alberta, Canada) Newark Liberty International Airport (New Jersey) to Northwest Arkansas National Airport When asked to comment for the cuts, a spokesperson for United Airlines indicated that decreased demand was the reason for the change. She said, however, that United plans to resume most of the routes at some point. We regularly adjust our schedule for a variety of reasons, including demand and the broader needs of our network, the spokesperson wrote in an email shared with Nexstar. These are primarily seasonal changes and we plan to resume most of these routes at a future time. The cheapest time to book flight is a myth, Google Flights says. What to do instead News of Uniteds plan to cut 12 of its routes comes amid reports of a pilot shortage affecting the airline industry. United CEO Scott Kirby had hinted at staffing issues as a result of a pilot shortage since at least the summer of 2021, when remarked on an episode of Axios on HBO that the military produces far fewer pilots today than they did in the Cold War era, The Hill reported at the time. Story continues More recently, Kirby told investors that the airline industry could be suffering for years as a result of too few pilots. The pilot shortage for the industry is real, and most airlines are simply not going to be able to realize their capacity plans because there simply arent enough pilots, at least not for the next five-plus years, Kirby said in the spring of 2022, NewsNation reported. Uniteds spokesperson did not indicate when United planned to resume any of the 12 affected routes, or which ones could be returning. The Points Guy, however, reported that United still serves all of the affected destination airports (Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, St. Louis Lambert International Airport, etc.) from other hubs. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Photo credit: Alice Cowling A big part of Black History Month is centred around education, calling for people of all races, ages and genders to learn about racial injustice and how racism is manifested in society. If you want to help bring racism to an end, become a better ally, understand the experiences of Black people and proactively make a change within society, but aren't sure how to go about it, diversifying your bookshelf is a great place to start. By educating yourself with books about racial injustice and racism (thus not asking a Black person to take time and energy to explain what terms like 'white privilege' mean), you'll be able to understand how you can influence your own circles of friends, family and colleagues. You'll also be supporting non-white writers, too. To start your journey, here's a list of recommended reading by authors of colour, some of which delve into the complexities of racism and the Black experience. There's a mix of fiction, poetry and non-fiction to dive into, as well as anti-racism guides. If you can, shop from Black-owned bookshops like Afrori or Round Table Books, or your local independent seller. You can also choose to support your chosen independent store by shopping with Bookshop.org. Slay In Your Lane by Yomi Adegoke and Elizabeth Uviebinene Incredibly well-researched, this book is packed to the rafters with helpful statistics on systemic racism, spanning Black relationships to what it's like being a Black woman with health concerns, while remaining simple to understand. If you're looking for an insight into what life is like for Black women today, this is a great choice. Girl: Essays on Black Womanhood by Kenya Hunt Edited by ELLE Editor-in-Chief Kenya Hunt, this anthology contains essays from the likes of Queenie author Candice Carty-Williams, Freddie Harrel, Funmi Fetto and more on what it's like to be a Black woman and mother today. In equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and heartbreaking, if you can't relate to these stories personally, they'll certainly shine a light on an experience it's vital to understand. Story continues Safe: 20 Ways To Be A Black Man In Britain Today by Derek Owusu On the flip side, this next collection of essays explores the experience of being a Black man today. Brave, timely and vital, with writing from Suli Breaks, Alex Wheatle and Okechukwu Nzelu, this book gives Black British men a platform to celebrate and protest their experiences, dismantle stereotypes, spark conversations about mental health and LGBTQ+ identities and reclaim space in all areas of society. Biased: The New Science of Race and Inequality by Dr Jennifer Eberhardt Dr Eberhardt, a Stanford University professor, outlines how unconscious bias (having judgemental or stereotypical views that you may not even be aware of) is something present in *all* of us and why it's nothing to be embarrassed about, but does need to be addressed. This book actively encourages people to do some inward self-reflection and explains how to overcome these unknowingly held prejudices. When They Call You A Terrorist by Patrisse Khan-Cullors and Asha Bandele Co-authored by one of the Black Lives Matter founders, this best-selling book draws upon personal experience and offers an intelligent, thought-provoking review of humanity, culture and race. The title reflects the fact that Black Lives Matter has been condemned by some as a terrorist organisation and picks apart exactly why that couldn't be further from the truth. Against White Feminism by Rafia Zakaria If you've ever wondered what white feminism is, and why it matters, this is the book for you. Although feminism has been a major force for good for many, some women have been left behind. Attorney and activist Rafia Zakaria shows how poor, immigrant, non-Western and non-white women have been sometimes unconsciously, but actively, excluded from feminism. This book will make you think. Millennial Black by Sophie Williams Being a Black woman in the workplace isn't easy and who knows this better than author Sophie Williams? With a title that comes from her well-known Instagram handle, this book is a roadmap for young Black women on how to succeed in the workplace, and will make you aware of the many issues they may face. Alongside advice on navigating the race pay gap, boundaries, finding your gang and racist abuse, there are interviews with June Sarpong, Candice Brathwaite, Munroe Bergdorf and many more. A perfect read for fans of Slay In Your Lane. Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams Queenie follows a young Jamaican-British woman trying to balance the worlds of romance, working life and family, with politics and personal growth. From one of Britain's most celebrated authors today, the story of Queenie will make you laugh, cry, and learn about Black British culture in a way that is rarely represented in mainstream fiction. Black and British: A Forgotten History by David Olusoga There's a lot more to Black British history than we were likely taught in schools. David Olusoga unravels the connections between Britain and people from Africa and the Caribbean in this award-winning book. Taking us back to Roman Britain through to the slave trade and beyond, this read will have you seeing history in a whole new light. More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth You may recognise Welteroth from her role as a judge on Project Runway, or as the former editor of Teen Vogue (she has been widely credited for infusing the title with social consciousness). Her debut book has been described as "part-memoir, part-manifesto" and shares her journey of climbing the ranks of journalism, fashion and life, often being the only Black woman in the room. An eye-opening insight into how race impacts professional success. Why Im No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge A book born out of a viral blog post of the same name, Eddo-Lodge (an award-winning journalist) offers an invaluable insight into racism in Britain past and present in a now iconic work. Educational while remaining accessible, the updated edition comes with a bonus chapter on what followed after the book's publication in 2017. Brit(ish) by Afua Hirsch Hirsch, a journalist and author from Wimbledon, discusses her experience of growing up in a predominantly white area where people regularly ask where she's "from" alongside how British history's white-centred focus is devastatingly harmful for us today. Hirsch asks what it means to be British, as well as exploring her mixed-race identity. I Am Not Your Baby Mother by Candice Brathwaite From the founder of Make Motherhood Diverse comes a book detailing the steps that need to be taken in order to do exactly that. A prolific and powerful presence on social media, Brathwaite's debut reflects her online content, which strives for Black mothers to be included the mix whether it's in adverts for maternity clothes or conversations at the school gates. This tome is all the more vital after it was revealed that Black British women are five times more likely to die in childbirth than white women. Me and White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad Split into a 28-day programme, this book encourages you to take just a few minutes a day to read about and reflect on racial issues. Saad breaks down white privilege, white fragility and white supremacy and explains how they can all manifest in daily life at the end of each section, you'll reflect on how this has occurred in your own life, and what you can do to be aware of and challenge those behaviours. How To Be An Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi Taking the premise that it's not enough to be neutral in situations of injustice and to simply know that racism is wrong, Kendi calls upon readers to be actively anti-racist and proactive, while detailing how to do so. Practical change is essential when looking to be a better ally. Such A Fun Age by Kiley Reid A fiction offering, Reid's masterful storytelling centres on a Black nanny who is accused of kidnapping the white child she looks after during a trip to the supermarket the event is caught on camera leading to an explosive chain of events. Observations on liberal racism and privilege are well made throughout. Don't Touch My Hair by Emma Dabiri A powerful read on the importance of hair in Black culture, putting everything from non-white celebrities who wear braids to the way braids helped to free enslaved Africans under a microscope. Hair is so much more than "just hair" and here's the proof. Natives by Akala A history of racism in Great Britain, that also explains how different races came to be in the UK in the first place. Akala, a BAFTA and MOBO award-winner, gives a comprehensive overview of why things are the way they are in the UK, including personal experiences, such as the day he realised his mother is white. Check out Akala's YouTube videos too he's an incredible rapper, poet and cultural commentator. Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall A deep dive into white feminism (aka feminism that doesn't take into account or lift up women of colour) and its failings, which although written by a US-based author is still highly relevant to UK readers. Given that the format is a collection of essays, it's easily digestible (even if the material is heavy at times). Expect looks at the hyper-sexualisation of Black women, pop culture and mental health. The Clapback: Your Guide To Calling Out Racist Stereotypes by Elijah Lawal Humorously busting myths such as "All Black people love fried chicken, right?" and breaking down why it's very much not cool to ask someone "Yeah, but where are you from originally?", Lawal uses straight facts and his razor-sharp wit to create this overview of racist stereotypes. So, You Want To Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo If you're looking to get more clued up about the situation in America, Oluo's book focusses on the US's racial landscape and tackles issues like privilege, police brutality, intersectionality, micro-aggressions, the Black Lives Matter movement and the N word. The book has been described as perfectly bridging the gap between Black, brown and white readers who have questions surrounding race complexities. Girl, Woman, Other by Bernadine Evaristo This unique book follows twelve characters on their journeys of self-discovery, stretching from Cornwall to Newcastle. As all of their stories intertwine, the reader is taken on an exploration of what it means to be Black and British through various lenses ranging from a city slicker banker to a lesbian theatre pro. Black, Listed: Black British Culture Explored by Jeffrey Boakye Drawing on his own experiences and mixing them with what's going on in the wider landscape, Boakye educates through humour and insightful observations as he investigates all the ways in which Black people (and communities) have been oppressed, mimicked and celebrated. His measured, easy-to-read writing style makes this one tough to put down once started. Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine A moving collection of prose, poetry and vignettes, Rankine uses her book as an opportunity to study racial inequality within a "post-racist" Western society. She does this by putting everyday examples of prejudice under a microscope, as well acts of discrimination and violence both physical and emotional in an almost documentary-style manner. An incredible blend of styles that will leave you pondering. White Fragility: Why It's So Hard For White People To Talk About Race by Robin DiAngelo For those who've already read up a lot on the subject, or experienced racism firsthand, this book might not feel all that revelatory. However, it's certainly still well deserving of its best-selling accolade it explains many of the ways white people enjoy and uphold white supremacy and privilege in the world, and is the perfect springboard for sparking interesting and important conversations and further reading. The Space Between Black and White by Esuantsiwa Jane Goldsmith Detailing Goldsmiths life story, from growing up as the only mixed-race child in her area to becoming the Queen Mother of her fathers village in Ghana, this is a fairly chunky book boasting over 500 pages but don't let that put you off. Goldsmiths relentless pursuit of more makes the story feel both inspiring and, at times, heartbreaking. She discusses everything from mental health, to her physical experiences and emotions, all while exploring what it feels like to be mixed-race. A joy to read and recommend. For other ways that you can help support justice for Black lives, see here. You Might Also Like Photo Composite by The Daily Beast, Courtesy of Christie Burkhart Volunteer escorts who help patients access abortion clinics say they are facing more threats and violence from anti-abortion protesters since the fall of Roe v. Wade, and some predict things will only get worse. On Aug. 15, Melissa Strelec drove her car up to the entrance of Northeast Ohio Womens Center in Cuyahoga Falls and began throwing eggs out of the window at the clinics volunteer escorts. She then maneuvered her car erratically around the parking lot, almost hitting an escort, before driving away. The encounter was caught on the clinics security cameras. An hour later, Strelec returned on foot, brandishing a black bag. Escorts, trained to be aware of serious threats, ran into the building. We honestly didnt know if it was an explosive or what it was, one volunteer told the Akron Beacon Journal, We were panicked. Strelec threw the bag against the door of the clinic and left. When clinic staff looked outside they saw the bags macabre contentsa dead raccoon, covered in flies. This is just one incident out of many. Escorts at the Ohio clinicone of the last remaining abortion clinics in the statesay theyve seen an increase in protesters in the last few months, according to Akron Beacon Journal. Theyre not alone. On June 24, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, a decision that ensured a federally protected right to abortion for half a century. Since then, anti-abortion protesters have been using more extreme and threatening tactics, clinic escorts and staff interviewed by The Daily Beast say. Preliminary data collected by the National Abortion Federation (NAF) shows that violence and threats are up compared to this time last year. Incidents of arson, vandalism, blockades, bomb threats, and death threats have doubled compared to May through August, 2021, NAFs data shows. Clinic invasions and hate mail have also increased. We are seeing an increase in anti-abortion activity that indicates people are feeling more emboldened in this climate after the fall of Roe, says Melissa Fowler, the chief program officer at NAF. And clinics in Republican states in particular are feeling the pressure: They are seeing a big increase in the numbers and the aggressiveness of people who are showing up. Story continues Thats the case in Greensboro, North Carolina, where Kristin Cassell volunteers as an escort on Saturdays at A Womans Choicethe only abortion clinic in the city. Cassell has been escorting patients at the clinic for four years, and has grown to think of the other escorts as extended family. On June 24, she was training a new volunteer in the groups strategies, which include strict non-engagement with protestors. Escorts at A Womans Choice in Greensboro, North Carolina Courtesy Kirstin Cassell But in the back of her mind, she was worried. One protester in particular, who had been a regular face outside the clinic for about a year, had recently escalated his behavior. Youre going to meet your maker, a protester named Danny Bracken had told one escort, according to Cassell. He was being a menace outside the clinic, she says. That morning, Cassel saw Bracken driving his car into the parking lot. He really methodologically drove around the parking lot so his car was lined up with us. But Bracken did not stop his car. Instead, he collided with Cassell, forcing her to twist her body out of the way. The entire incident was captured on another escorts body-cam. Cassell was not seriously injured, but the emotional trauma has been more long-lasting. It could have been so much worse, she says. Her interactions with the police and the subsequent court proceedings, where Brackens charges were downgraded from assault with a deadly weapon, to simple assault, also felt retraumatizing for Cassell and her colleagues. We did get a win in court, but barely, but it felt like a loss. We all left feeling really beat up, Cassell says, There is a conversation to be had about safety outside of our clinics, not just for patients. Patients absolutely deserve safety, but so do escorts. The recent uptick in violence is part of a long history of radical tactics by the anti-abortion movement, says Lauren Rankin, author of Bodies On The Line, a new history of abortion clinic escorting. These incidents have ranged from vandalism, bombings, arson and clinic blockades all the way to murder. Between 1992 and 2011, 11 people, including doctors, security guards, escorts, and were murdered by anti-abortion extremists, according to non-profit group NARAL. In fact, it was anti-abortion protests of the 1970s and 80s that led to the first formation of grassroots escort groups who got together to protect patients trying to access clinics. Clinic escorts were these ad-hoc groups that formed, Rankin says, They just decided that something had to be done, and they figured it out as they went along. They realized they were up against this growing juggernaut in terms of protest. The situation on the ground at many clinics improved after the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act) was signed by Bill Clinton in 1994. This federal law prohibits the use of threat or force to interfere with someone seeking an abortion, or the destruction of reproductive health care facilities. But it did not stop anti-abortion protestors. Instead, they changed their tactics. They focussed on smaller, quotidien protests at clinics, Rankin says. Now, it appears the pendulum is swinging back. For Julie Burkhart thats meant her dream of opening Wyomings first abortion clinic is now delayed. Burkhart, the president of Wellspring Health Access Health Care Services, took out a lease on a building in Casper, Wyoming, where she planned to open the clinic in June. But on May 25, after the Supreme Courts decision was leaked, someone broke into the building in the early hours of the morning and set fire to it, gutting the inside and causing around $250,000 of damage. Despite having clear photos and video of the suspect the police still have not made an arrest, Burkhart says. I just find it highly unlikely that somebody in the community or within the anti-choice movement doesnt know who this person is, she says. Burkhart herself is all too aware of the threat of violence to providers and staff at clinics. Earlier in her career, she worked for Dr George Tillera doctor in Wichita, Kansas, who was murdered by an anti-abortion extremist in 2009. Nonetheless, Burkhart is determined to open the clinic, even in the face of a trigger ban signed into law by Governor Mark Gordon. Ongoing litigation means abortion is still legal in Wyomingfor now. If we can provide services to people for a month, or six months or a year, thats better than not being able to provide services at all, Burkhart says. Its not only in red states that abortion providers and staff are facing increased threats. In Chicago, Illinois, where Benita Ulisano volunteers as an escort, the atmosphere is also more tense. In the last two months, since Dobbs, weve seen an escalation of what we used to call rogue or aggressive antis, says Ulisano, who has been an escort on-and-off since the 1990s, Theyre mad because Illinois is an oasis. Benita Ulisano outside the Chicago clinic. Courtesy of Benita Ulisano Illinois sits in the middle of several states where abortion is now illegal or limited. That means Ulisano and her colleagues have escorted more patients from out of state, as far as Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa and Michigan. But its also made them a target for protestors. Ulisano is frustrated with a lack of action by law enforcement to protect clinics and patients, like many of the escorts interviewed by The Daily Beast. Chicago, where Ulisano volunteers at Family Planning Associates Medical Group, has a bubble zone ordinance which creates a buffer zone around clinics. She says anti-abortion protestors are now routinely violating the rule. Theyre hell-bent on getting to the patients regardless of the zone, she says, sometimes becoming so physically aggressive that they are pushing the patients as well as the escorts, For people like us on the ground every weekend, all we want is the cops to enforce it. The life of an abortion clinic escort is not easy, Ulisano says, but the groups support each other, and dont give up easily. You are not being paid, to basically risk your life every weekend, she says. Clinic escorting is not a job for everybody. You have to be able to withstand someone screaming two inches from your face, says Rankin, who volunteered as an escort herself in New Jersey, Clinics werent always a war zone. But they have become a war zone, and we have let them. For Kirstin Cassell, getting back to her volunteer role was important. The day after she faced Bracken in court, she was back outside the Greensboro clinic, escorting. There are people in power who could take some action to protect clinics, she says, We need them to see whats happening outside, and hopefully to prompt them to do something. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. EXCLUSIVE: Barbara Broccoli, one of the teams of producers behind the powerhouse film Till about the extraordinary efforts of Mamie Till Mobley to find justice after the lynching of her 14-year-old son Emmett Louis Till, for whistling at Carolyn Bryant, a white woman, by white supremacists in Mississippi in 1955 told Deadline, that audiences must seek out the movie: This is not a time for us to look away. Broccoli said Emmett, who was visiting his cousins, was lynched and murdered for whistling at Bryant, keeping shop at Bryants Grocery & Meat Market in Money, Mississippi. A few days later a group of men dragged the boy from his uncles home. Days later his mutilated body was discovered in the Tallahatchie River in Mississippi. More from Deadline Citing fellow producers Keith Beauchamp, Whoopi Goldberg, Thomas Levine, Michael Reilly and Fred Zollo, Broccoli added, This is an important film to me, to all of us. Related Story 'Till' NYFF Review: Chinonye Chukwu Handles The Emmett Till Story With Care Related Story 'Glass Onion' Visual Effects Firm DNEG Appoints Former Technicolor Executive Daniel Jurow as COO Related Story 'Chernobyl' Producer Sister Posts $18.6M Loss Due To Covid & Expansion As Company "Lays Foundations For Future Growth" The film, directed by Chinonye Chukwu (Clemency), was receiving its world premiere screening Saturday night at the New York Film Festival at Lincoln Center, will open peoples eyes, Broccoli said following a private screening of Till in London this week. I pray that people see it, added the producer who controls Eon Productions, with Michael G. Wilson, home of the James Bond franchise. Broccoli was worried, she said because the racial climate in the United States feels worse now than it did 20 years ago. A lot of it is Donald Trump, isnt it? Hes made it so that people can openly deny this happened. Story continues She explained that Keith Beauchamp was the producer who basically spent his whole adult life researching this, its his scholarship that has gotten us to this point. He was very close to Maimie and this film is about what really happened. He and Fred and Tom, and then Whoopi and I got involved and then we brought Chinonye on having seen Clemency, and shes done a magnificent job. The casting of Danielle Deadwyler (The Harder They Fall) to portray Mamie Till Mobley was a proud moment, Broccoli noted. And Danielle is truly extraordinary. She sent in a tape to the casting director, we had lots and lots of submissions. Chinonye sent me a note that said: Have you seen the tapes today? Call me. I was actually in L.A. and I called her and said, Oh, my God. I think we said Oh, my God in unison, actually. We were sold on Danielle and what was fantastic was the reaction at the studios. Alana Mayo who runs Orion Pictures and Pam Abdy and Michael De Luca who financed the film; when we said that we wanted someone who was not an established name, then they saw her there was no argument about casting her. They supported this film 100 percent. And weve had 100 percent support from MGM and UAR [United Artists Releasing] who are doing a great job, and tremendous support from Universal, Broccoli said. Sighing, Broccoli continued, Getting to the point where we got it to them was a long journey but once we gave it to them it was instantaneous. They just wanted to make this film because it was Orion which has a long history of making films that stand for something. The films propelled by the power of a mothers love and the power of a mother seeking the truth of what happened to her teenage son, portrayed with stand-out skill by Jalyn Hall (Shaft). Chinonye wanted to focus the story on Mrs. Mobley and was very adamant, rightfully so, that she didnt want to show the violence of Emmett being killed. But, obviously, the aftermath was important for people to see. It was important to show what had been done to Emmetts body and thats what Mrs. Mobley did when she displayed her sons tortured body in an open casket. Let the world see what Ive seen,' Broccoli explained. Also, said Broccoli, the director wanted to start and end the film in a place of joy. And she wanted to show the love, and the resilience, and the complexity that Mrs. Mobley was a middle-class woman living in Chicago with a great job; she had a life and had friends and had not set out to become a Civil Rights activist. And when you think of what happened to her in just one month: its a month from the abduction to finding out about the murder and then having to testify in Mississippi. Its extraordinary what she achieved. Shes a real hero and people do not know her story. She goes beyond what anyone can even imagine doing; standing up to the system, to all those [white] men, and putting her grief aside for the greater good. Pain to purpose. That cant happen without a great performance. Danielle provides that, Broccoli declared. Clearly, Broccoli is heavily invested in Till, both emotionally and practically. She claimed that some states are banning the teaching of the history in a whole bunch of places. But were opening wide [October 14 in the U.S.] and were showing it at the London Film Festival on October 15 and 16. We have a huge school program, a huge program with schools and colleges. People think they know the name and they think they know the story, but they dont really know the story. Broccoli mentioned a key scene in Till when a relative informs Mrs. Mobley that she cant look at Emmetts disfigured corpse in an open casket at the Roberts Temple Church of God in the Bronzeville district of Chicago. Auntie Lizzie says, I cant look, and Maimie says We must. And so must we. This is not a time for us to look away, Broccoli insisted. Goldberg also features in Till as Mrs. Mobleys mother Alma Carthan; Frankie Faison portrays her father, John Carthan. Civil rights giant Medgar Evers is portrayed by British actor Tosin Cole, his wife Myrlie Evers is played by Jayme Lawson. Medgars wife says in the film that she worries. It sends chills knowing what was to happen, Broccoli said, referring to Medgar Everss assassination eight years later in 1963. Haley Bennett plays Carolyn Bryant. Repeating her mantra, Broccoli said, No, this is not a time to look away. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. MILAN Digitization and a restart of the Asian market were key factors that emerged at the three-day handbags and accessories trade show Mipel. Sustainability and the connection between fashion and Italian art were two other topics among exhibitors presenting their designs for spring 2023. The global economic crisis, the pandemic and the war in Ukraine formed a dark scenario for the Italian leather goods industry, although the first half of the year filled Mipel organizers with optimism as industrial production increased by 12.4 percent and turnover by 15 percent. More from WWD We are seeing the return of Asian buyers, mainly coming from Japan, said Franco Gabbrielli, president of Mipel and industry organization Assopellettieri. We are also hosting 30 percent more exhibitors than last Septembers summer edition, which means up to 160 companies and 200 brands. Signs of a restart also came from the increased presence of South Korean and U.S. buyers, while the best-performing European countries were Germany and France. This trend emerged while speaking with exhibitors too. The forced stop for COVID-19 has been a bad hit, but our Asian clients are coming back, confirmed Anna Bonfanti, third generation of the family business founded in 1945 in Gorla Minore, in the north of Italy. The company stood out for its use of natural fabrics: raffia, for example, is the most used material in its production. In our spring-summer 2023 collection we feature what we call techno raffia, a mix of raffia, cotton and polyester which gives more flexibility to our bags, Bonfanti said. One of the companys bestselling collections sees a classic design combined with another natural material: bamboo wood. These pieces reflect our desire to meet the needs of Asian clients, Japanese and Koreans above all, as they represent a major part of our exports, Bonfanti explained. Story continues A view of Mipel A fresh, jungle atmosphere set the inspiration for Braccialini. The collection Occhi di Bagheera (Bagheeras eyes) takes its name from a character in Kiplings The Jungle Book, the panther, and gives life to bags whose color and lines mirror the sinuous silhouette of that animal. Braccialini is aiming at boosting its high-end collection by expanding its monobrand network. We have dozens of shops mainly in Italy and in the Middle East and we are working on increasing that number: last July we had a new opening in Rome and last August in Florence, while Milan is soon to come, said Giacomo Gori, sales and retail manager. These openings follow a three-year plan which includes some key markets like Kuwait and Qatar to reinforce Braccialinis presence in the Middle East, where the company already has three stores in Dubai. Speaking about the global market trend, Gori said Braccialini therefore hopes in a rapid recovery of the European market and the Eastern European countries above all, as we have seen promising signs during the March edition. The Asian market is vital for Boldrini Selleria as well. Based near Florence, the company displayed a wide range of vegetable-tanned leather pieces. Japan is our main Asian market and it stands out for its well defined characteristics, said owner Luca Boldrini, whose father Scandiano founded the firm in 1955. The Japanese area in particular looks for products which go beyond the limits of gender, preferring unisex creations, Boldrini explained. The constant increase in the cost of electricity is a main concern. We have met Ukrainian buyers at Mipel and this is a very good sign, but companies are facing an exponential growth in industrial costs that needs to be stopped, Boldrini observed. A discussion with political authorities is something already scheduled by Mipel and Assopellettieris management. During Assopellettieri General States, which will take place Oct. 18, We will suggest a strategy of revolving around two main factors to find the best ways to support smaller businesses and give space to high standard training schools to give new life to our sector, Gabbrielli explained. The Scenario area at Mipel, which closed Sept. 20, featured some interesting emerging brands like Una de Monaco. South Korean Una Dawoon Byeun founded her company in 2018 and dedicated it to sustainable production. Im also trying to bring light to the history of my country to let everyone know it better, she said. Accordingly, tigers, temples, cherry blossoms and ancient Korean calligraphy have become part of her designs, reflecting the heritage of her country. Coming up next is the opening of a branch in London. Up to 90 percent of our turnover comes from online sales by now, but I have prepared multilingual versions of my website to be ready to deliver in Europe, she added. Her highest-end collection retail at 1,000 euros and up. Part of the Scenario section, the Estelle Rodriguez brand was founded by its namesake Belgian designer. After studying fashion design in Paris and London, she specialized in handbags in Florence until she launched her own company in 2021. My mission is to give each woman the opportunity of feeling unique by creating limited edition bags, Rodgriguez said. Each model is 100 pieces only and they are consciously sourced and produced in Florence, giving life to a high-end collection whose prices start from 1,000 euros. The love for heritage and history could be seen in the products of Cosmo, which was founded in 2015 by two young Georgian entrepreneurs. Today, focusing on online distribution through its website and the Etsy platform, Cosmo has seven branches in Georgia and is now expanding its international business: Its handbags are sold in shops in the Netherlands and in Germany, while in October the company will be on the Amazon platform as well. Our bags are a tribute to the heritage of our country, said international sales manager George Kotchlamazashvili. An example is the collection inspired by King Tamar, a queen who was named as a king because she was the first queen who reigned in the 12th century: the side panels of bags and wallets are shaped as Tamars crown. The concept takes its inspiration from bullet bags, which are part of a traditional male dress worn all over the Caucasus region and called chokha, he said. The Cosmo stand at Mipel. Digitalization was key at Mipel to deal with the gap between big and small brands. As COVID-19 restrictions forced even smaller companies to expand their online businesses, Mipel is trying to help brands determine a path structured around clear and simple steps to grow online. This is how the partnership with Mirta started, a platform founded by Martina Capriotti and Ciro Di Lanno and developed to support brands with services ranging from order management to logistics, payments and communication. Another partnership took the digital experience to the next level at the trade show. Together with Impersive, a company specialized in augmented reality, especially in the fashion industry, Mipel launched a journey into the beauty of Italian history and its contribution to fashion design. With the use of a 3D Oculus, the latest trends were presented through a virtual, immersive trip to four Italian museums (the Museum of Fashion and Costume; the Museum of Design; the Canovian Gipsoteca and the National Museum Salce collection). Click here to read the full article. Key Speakers At IHS CERAWeek 2015 Energy Conference Enbridge Inc. chief executive Al Monaco said the time is right for a change in leadership at Canadas largest pipeline company after announcing Monday that he would be retiring on Jan. 1 In an interview, Monaco said he believes the CEOs of large public companies in the energy sector typically have a seven to 10-year runway to accomplish what they set out to do. Im in my 11th year, actually, as CEO. So I think the timing just makes sense from that perspective, he said. Company-wise and team-wise, I think theyre in great shape to move forward. I think the key priorities that weve been focusing on are being ticked off and the strategy is sound in terms of how we invest capital, and I think theres going to be good continuity going forward. The oilpatch stalwart has been at the Calgary-based pipeline company for 27 years, serving as chief executive since 2012. The current chair of the companys board of directors, Greg Ebel, will succeed Monaco as CEO. Monaco led Enbridge during a tumultuous but highly profitable decade that saw the pipeline companys share price outperform its peers and an annual dividend growth rate of around 13 per cent. He also navigated a protracted downturn in oil prices and a bruising battle with regulators and the federal government over the rejected Northern Gateway pipeline. Monaco, however, succeeded in shepherding the long-delayed Line 3 replacement project, which began operating one year ago, and has prevailed in multiple clashes with authorities in the United States over Enbridges cross-border Line 5 pipeline. Recently, the company also struck a deal to sell a $1.12-billion minority stake in seven Alberta oil pipelines to 23 First Nations and Metis communities in the Athabasca region of northern Alberta the largest deal of its kind in North America to date and a transaction that Monaco said should be a model for the future for other companies. The ultimate is when you can have full alignment with Indigenous groups on economic development, Monaco said. Story continues Monaco also said he feels Enbridge under his tenure did a good job of standing up for the energy industry, even as various pipeline projects have become a flashpoint for critics. We need to be an advocate for what we do. And its not just about advocacy, its about making sure people understand the role that we play, he said. In a statement Monday, Monacos successor praised him for expanding the companys liquids pipeline business into the U.S. Gulf Coast including a $37-billion mega-merger with Spectra Energy Crop. and for building out the companys crude oil and liquified natural gas export capabilities. Monaco also accelerated the shift in Enbridges energy asset mix, from virtually zero natural gas assets in the mid-1990s to 40 per cent natural gas transmission and distribution in 2022. Renewables also now account for around five per cent of the business. Als unparalleled leadership, discipline and integrity has ensured that the company is incredibly well-positioned to remain a critical component of North Americas energy fabric, and to grow, for decades to come, Ebel said. His relentless focus on Enbridges safety performance, emissions reduction, Indigenous engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion and fostering the companys talent will provide an enduring foundation for the future. To support the new CEO through the transition, Monaco will serve as an adviser through March 1, the company said in a statement. Ebel, who was chief executive of Houston-based Spectra Energy prior to the merger in 2017, has served as chair of Enbridges board of directors ever since. Royal Bank of Canada analyst Robert Kwan said investors may be looking to the company to provide more detail about the timing of Monacos departure during the upcoming third quarter conference call or at the annual investor day event later this year. We believe the market will be surprised by the timing of Al Monacos decision to retire as well as Greg Ebel moving back into the C-suite, Kwan said in a research note Monday. That being said, Greg is very well-versed in Enbridges strategy and business operations Kwan said the lengthy transition period did not suggest there was a specific trigger behind the timing of the announcement. However, we believe the market will be looking for additional colour on the nature of the transition and what it means for the broader executive team at Enbridge, he added. Email: mpotkins@postmedia.com | Twitter: PARIS As Drunk Elephant expands around the globe, the clean skin care brand is poised to open its first House of Drunk pop-up in Paris. It will be located at the Pavillon Rive Gauche, 6 Rue Frederic Sauton in the citys 5th arrondissement, and open to the public Oct. 15 and 16, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. CET. More than 1,200 people are expected to visit. More from WWD Since 2018, previous House of Drunk pop-ups have been located in London, Singapore and New York. Were very focused on building brand love, driving awareness and recruiting new consumers by sharing our unique product philosophy, explained Barbara Calcagni, president global brands at Drunk Elephant, Nars and Tory Burch Beauty. Since the acquisition of Drunk Elephant by Shiseido in 2019, we have increased our presence in [geographic] regions, establishing Drunk Elephant as a truly global brand, she continued. The House of Drunk will be hosted in partnership with Sephora. The brand launched exclusively with the retailer in France in March 2021. A rendering of the House of Drunk in Paris. Calcagni called the activation a feast for the senses. Fans can touch, see, hear and experience the world of Drunk Elephant. The 4,520-square-foot pop-up will span two levels, be decorated in the brands bright colors and playful motifs, and offer immersive experiences. Consumers can sample formulas for skin, hair and body care. A mixing station will allow people to receive personalized smoothie consultations, while the Ceramighty Tunnel is where they can discover the recently launched Ceramighty AF Eye Balm. The six products in The Littles Kit are to be spotlighted at the pop-up, and consumers can shop, as well. Paris is the perfect place to host House of Drunk, and to celebrate our presence in the region, Calcagni said. Theres a huge appetite from consumers and fans to have these kinds of experiences and moments with the brand. Story continues Drunk Elephant will bring about 75 influencers and journalists from about 20 markets to Paris to experience the pop-up and meet with brand founder and chief creative officer Tiffany Masterson a few days prior to the public opening. Calcagni said House of Drunk is an expression of her vision of the Drunk Elephant brand. The House of Drunk is an opportunity to bring fans of the brand into our community and culture, so they can experience the happy, colorful and whimsical spirit, meet the wonderful people behind the brand and truly understand our unique ingredient philosophy, Masterson said. Our purpose is to help people attain the skin of their dreams as we invite them inside this unforgettable Drunk Elephant experience. Drunk Elephant is a serious skin care brand, but we dont take ourselves too seriously and like to have fun, Calcagni continued. Paris will be the most imaginative experience of Drunk Elephant to date, and the city has long been a source of inspiration and adoration for Tiffany. Drunk Elephant has been focusing on building its global momentum and expansion. Equally important for us has been protecting and amplifying the unique product philosophy and brand expression, Calcagni continued. Since 2019, the brand has opened 29 new markets around the world, with a concentration in the EMEA region through Sephora. Looking ahead, I will say that also building our business in Asia is a key strategic priority for the brand, said Calcagni, explaining there the focus is on increasing brand awareness and expanding Drunk Elephants retail presences across the region. Were also committed to using only ingredients that either directly benefit the health of skin or support the integrity of our formulations, she added. That is the philosophy that Tiffany started the brand with, and its the same philosophy today. Drunk Elephant is considered a growth brand by Shiseido, along with others in its portfolio, such as Nars, Baum and Haku. Click here to read the full article. FILE PHOTO: Logo of Swiss bank Credit Suisse is seen in Bern (Reuters) - Credit Suisse is in the throes of one of the biggest challenges in its history, hurt by a slump in stock price and the worsening of a key gauge of its credit risk ahead of a planned revamp. The bank is battling market skepticism about its financial health after a string of scandals, months after it was found guilty by Switzerland's Federal Criminal Court of failing to prevent money laundering in the country's first criminal trial of one of its major banks. Here are the main crises the bank has faced in recent years: CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP SPIKE Already wobbling under pressure from a declining stock price, the bank in October saw its credit default swaps - which measure the cost of insuring a firm's bond against the risk of default - surge to the highest level in two decades. That has made investors jittery about the Swiss financial giant's liquidity and capital, and prompted Chief Executive Officer Ulrich Koerner to reassure shareholders. Later this month, the bank is set to release its blueprint for a structural overhaul, which is expected to shed more light on its plans to scale back the investment bank into a "capital-light, advisory-led" business and strategic options for the Securitized Products unit. Swiss regulator FINMA and the Bank of England in London, where the lender has a major hub, were monitoring the situation and working closely together, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters. COCAINE-RELATED MONEY LAUNDERING In June, the bank was convicted of failing to prevent money laundering by a Bulgarian cocaine trafficking gang. The court found deficiencies within Credit Suisse regarding both its management of client relations with the criminal organisation and its monitoring of the implementation of anti-money laundering rules. Both Credit Suisse and the convicted former employee had denied wrongdoing. Credit Suisse said it would appeal the conviction. BERMUDA TRIAL A Bermuda court ruled in March that former Georgian Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili and his family are due damages of more than half a billion dollars from Credit Suisse's local life insurance arm. Story continues The court said Ivanishvili and his family were due the damages as a result of a long-running fraud committed by a former Credit Suisse adviser, Pascale Lescaudron. Lescaudron was convicted by a Swiss court in 2018 of having forged the signatures of former clients, including Ivanishvili, over an eight-year period. Credit Suisse expects the case, which it is appealing, to cost it around $600 million. 'SUISSE SECRETS' Credit Suisse denied allegations of wrongdoing after dozens of media outlets in February published results of coordinated, Panama Papers-style investigations into a leak of data on thousands of customer accounts in previous decades. The allegations in the "Suisse Secrets" media articles included that the bank had human rights abusers and businessmen under sanctions among its clients. CHAIRMAN EXIT Chairman Antonio Horta-Osorio resigned in January after flouting COVID-19 quarantine rules. The abrupt move came less than a year after Horta-Osorio was brought in to clean up the bank's corporate culture marred by its involvement with collapsed investment firm Archegos and insolvent supply-chain finance firm Greensill Capital. Board member Axel Lehmann took over as chairman. TUNA BOND FRAUD Credit Suisse pleaded guilty to defrauding investors over an $850 million loan to Mozambique meant to pay for a tuna fishing fleet and is paying U.S. and British regulators $475 million to settle the case under a deal announced in October. About $200 million of the loan went in kickbacks to Credit Suisse bankers and Mozambican government officials. The bank was aware of a huge shortfall between the funds raised and the value of boats bought but failed to disclose this to investors when the loan was restructured in 2016, the regulators said. Credit Suisse also arranged a loan that was kept secret from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). When Mozambique admitted to $1.4 billion in undisclosed loans the IMF pulled its support, sending the southern African country's economy into a tailspin. ARCHEGOS DEFAULT Credit Suisse lost $5.5 billion when U.S. family office Archegos Capital Management defaulted in March 2021. The hedge fund's highly leveraged bets on certain technology stocks backfired and the value of its portfolio with Credit Suisse plummeted. An independent report into the incident criticised the bank's conduct, saying its losses were the result of a fundamental failure of management and control at its investment bank, and its prime brokerage division in particular. The report said the bank was focused on maximising short-term profits and failed to rein in voracious risk-taking by Archegos, despite numerous warning signals, calling into question the competence of its risk personnel. GREENSILL FUNDS COLLAPSE Credit Suisse was forced to freeze $10 billion of supply chain finance funds in March 2021 when British financier Greensill Capital collapsed after losing insurance cover for debt issued against its loans to companies. The Swiss bank had sold billions of dollars of Greensill's debt to investors, assuring them in marketing material that the high-yield notes were low risk because the underlying credit exposure was fully insured. A number of investors have sued the Swiss bank over the Greensill-linked funds. The bank has returned about $6.8 billion to investors so far. SHAREHOLDER ANGER Credit Suisse shareholders rejected a proposal from the bank's board to discharge management from other liabilities for 2020, highlighting shareholder anger of the bank's costly missteps. The vote garnered only 35.88% approval at the bank's AGM in April, as proxy advisers pointed to risk and control deficiencies leading up to the Greensill and Archegos meltdowns. That leaves room for shareholders to hold directors responsible for wilful or grossly negligent violations of their duties under Swiss rules. SPYING SCANDAL Credit Suisse Chief Executive Tidjane Thiam was forced to quit in March 2020 after an investigation found the bank hired private detectives to spy on its former head of wealth management Iqbal Kahn after he left for arch rival UBS. Credit Suisse repeatedly played down the episode as an isolated incident. However, Switzerland's financial regulator said Credit Suisse had misled it about the scale of the spying. The regulator said the bank planned seven different spying operations between 2016 and 2019 and carried out most of them. In a rare rebuke, the regulator said there were serious organisational shortcomings at Credit Suisse and that the bank had even tried to cover its tracks by doctoring an invoice for surveillance. In response, Credit Suisse said it condemned the spying and had taken "decisive" steps to improve its governance and strengthen compliance. (Reporting by Michael Shields in Zurich, Scott Murdoch in Hong Kong, David Clarke and Niket Nishant; Editing by Jane Merriman and Matthew Lewis) Indias first 5G services went live over the weekend, with Bharti Airtel announcing its commercial 5G launch at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) event. Airtels 5G services went live in eight cities: Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Nagpur, Siliguri and Varanasi. The operators chairman Sunil Mittal pledged to extend coverage to most cities by March 2023, with nationwide coverage by March 2024. Indias market leading operator Reliace Jio Infocomm underlined its commitment to switching on its 5G offering by Diwali (22nd October), at which point it also plans to launch an own-branded 5G smartphone. Its inaugural service will be available in Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai before being expanded nationwide by December 2023. Vi (Vodafone Idea) did not confirm a timeframe for its planned 5G launch; CommsUpdate noted that the operator is in the process of negotiating funding as well as arrangements around the deployment with vendors and infrastructure companies. The operator was recently forced to issue a confirmation that it was pursuing softer payment terms with Indus Towers after reports indicated that it could lose its access to the towercos sites if it failed to clear its arrears. The beleaguered operator was however keen to talk up its partnerships with smartphone makers - including Oppo, Samsung, Vivo, and most recently OnePlus as evidence that it is pushing the development of a 5G ecosystem. At the IMC show, Vi demonstrated what it claimed were India-specific 5G use cases, including a smart agriculture offering for small farms. According to The Economic Times, Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that state operator BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) is laying the groundwork to launch 5G services in 200 cities, with August 2023 targeted as a launch date. The operator is reportedly aiming to achieve 80%-90% coverage within two years. Some of the worlds leading museums are filled with plundered and stolen goods and John Oliver of Last Week Tonight has had enough. If you are ever looking for a missing artifact, nine times out of 10 its in the British Museum, he pointed out. Its basically the worlds largest lost and found, with both lost and found in the heaviest possible quotation marks there. A prime example: the Elgin Marbles, aka the Parthenon Marbles, taken from Greece in the 19th century by Lord Elgin and currently in the British Museum. They werent lost. They were taken, which is clearly worse. Its like being unable to find the last puzzle piece and learning that you didnt actually misplace it, he said. A British earl snuck into your house, stole it, and then sold it to a museum over 1,000 miles away. Oliver slammed the unbelievably patronizing arguments of those who defend the British Museum and other repositories of stolen goods. Some claim the objects were taken in a different time and that means theres a different context to consider. But, as Oliver pointed out, British Prime Minister William Gladstone in 1868 said he deeply lamented objects looted from Ethiopia by the British Army and called for their return. He was saying that in 1868! Oliver said. We didnt even know how to fix a UTI without leeches back then, but we knew that raiding other countries for their shit was deeply lamentable, which is British for super fucked up. See his full takedown below. And be sure to stick around for a tour of the Payback Museum, featuring Kumail Nanjiani: This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Kanye West opened the Balenciaga show on a muddy runway on October 2, 2022. Balenciaga/YouTube Balenciaga's spring/summer 2023 show took place during Paris Fashion Week on Sunday. Kanye West opened the show, which took place on a mud-caked runway. Stars like Kylie Jenner, Naomi Campbell, and Alexa Demie were also in attendance. Models at the Balenciaga spring/summer 2023 show were met with a challenge when they walked a mud-caked runway for the brand's Paris Fashion Week event. According to Vogue France, the show took place in Villepinte, a commune in the suburbs of Paris. Big names like Kanye, West, Kylie Jenner, Naomi Campbell, and Alexa Demie traveled to the French town for a unique presentation from the fashion house. The label's creative director shared a message to accompany the show An Instagram account described as a "supporter" of creative director Demna Gvasalis, shared a note from the designer on Instagram Sunday. In the note, Gvasalis wrote that he hates being labeled despite the fact that the fashion world and society "loves doing that." "The set of this show is a metaphor for digging for truth and being down to earth," Gvasalis wrote. "Let us let everyone be anyone and make love not war." Representatives for Kering, Balenciaga's parent group, did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Balenciaga sent attendees wallets instead of a paper invitation Invitees to the runway show not only received wallets, but they quickly discovered that they were filled with someone else's belongings. High Snobiety reports that the wallets contained things like coins, a gym membership, credit cards, receipts, and an ID with a photo of a woman and the name "Natalia Antunes." Story continues According to the Guardian, the woman is a longtime employee of Balenciaga. On Friday, the label put out a call on for the wallet to be returned, posting a photo on Twitter of a "missing" poster with the date and time of the presentation. "Lost wallet. If found, please return it at 11:30 a.m. CET on October 2nd. THANK YOU," the sign read. Demna Gvasalia, the creative director of Balenciaga known simply as Demna, is known for his collectible invites. HighSnobiety notes that the designer previously sent out stacks of fake money and laser-engraved iPhones for his shows. Kanye West walked the muddy runway as the show's opener The Guardian reports that the musician's catwalk marked his first appearance as a runway model. West, known now as Ye, walked through the mud in an oversized, utility-style jacket, leather-like pants, sneakers, and gloves. The event was also a family affair for West. The "Donda" rapper was photographed arriving at the show with his children, North, 9; Saint, 6; and Chicago, 4; who also wore Balenciaga. Kanye West and his children arrive at the Balenciaga show in Paris, France, on October 2, 2022. Jacopo M. Raule/Getty Images For Balenciaga Read the original article on Insider Two-loss starts have already derailed once-promising seasons for Oklahoma and Texas A&M, two of leading College Football Playoff contenders back in August who continue to plummet down the USA TODAY Sports NCAA Re-Rank 1-131. Oklahoma's second loss in a row drops the Sooners to No. 38, down 17 spots from last week and 33 spots from the Sooners' high of No. 5 just two weeks ago. Brent Venables' defense allowed more than 1,000 yards in losses to Kansas State and TCU. A&M had rebounded from an earlier loss to Appalachian State to defeat Miami (Fla.) and Arkansas. But the Aggies slipped up against Mississippi State, as a terrible offense flopped in the Bulldogs' 42-24 win. That sends A&M to No. 39, down 23 spots. Texas A&M running back Devon Achane (6) is tackled by a Mississippi State player during the first half of their game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. Oklahoma's in-state rival makes a big move in this week's re-rank to round out a very solid top six atop the Bowl Subdivision. After beating Baylor in a key Big 12 matchup, Oklahoma State moves up six to No. 6, joining the set-in-stone top five: Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan and Clemson. CALM DOWN: Ohio State, Georgia highlight the overreactions from Week 5 HIGHS AND LOWS: Winners and losers from Week 5 in college football MISERY INDEX: Venables failing in first season as coach at Oklahoma THINGS YOU MISSED: Wild Big Ten West and fun Big 12 lead top stories Other teams rising toward the top of the rankings are No. 9 UCLA, which rose four spots after beating Washington; No. 12 Mississippi, up 13 after a narrow win against Kentucky; No. 17 TCU, making a big leap of 20 spots; and No. 19 Kansas, which climbed to 5-0 with a tough win against Iowa State. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College football NCAA Re-Rank: Oklahoma, Texas A&M continue freefall Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who rarely speaks about his tenure as America's top diplomat, on Monday described a White House where he was at times contradicted by President Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, even as Tillerson was supposed to be overseeing U.S. foreign policy during the first year of the Trump administration. "It was evident that at times Mr. Kushner was engaging with the same government officials on the same issues I was engaging with them on and that those messages were not consistent," Tillerson said during a rare public appearance. Tillerson's remarks came on the witness stand Monday in New York, where he testified for about three hours in the federal trial of Thomas Barrack, a billionaire friend of former President Donald Trump accused of unlawfully lobbying on behalf of the United Arab Emirates. A White House spokesperson in 2019 defended Kushner, saying "Jared consistently follows proper protocols with [National Security Council] and the State Department and this instance is no different," according to Politico. Tillerson was questioned about deliberations in 2017 surrounding a planned summit at Camp David, at which Trump hoped to resolve an economic blockade by the UAE and other Gulf monarchies against Qatar. Barrack is accused of working with an Emirati official to undermine plans for the Camp David summit. Tillerson described the summit as Trump's idea. "At least that's how it came to me. That he wanted to try and get the parties all together at Camp David," Tillerson said, and he described the discussions around the summit as sensitive. "You really don't want to have outside parties to have that information," Tillerson said. An artist's depiction of former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (left) being questioned by federal prosecutor Hiral Mehta (center) as Thomas Barrack (right) watches. / Credit: Jane Rosenberg Tillerson is the first member of the Trump administration to testify in the trial of Barrack, an adviser to the 2016 Trump campaign and chair of the presidential inaugural committee. Barrack is charged with acting as an unregistered foreign agent for the UAE, obstruction of justice and making false statements to the FBI about his dealings. Federal prosecutors say that from 2016 to 2018, Barrack sought to advance a UAE "wish list" of foreign policy positions. Tillerson served as secretary of state from February 2017 through March 2018. Story continues Tillerson was questioned earlier than the government anticipated because of a scheduling conflict, according to a court filing. A prosecutor said he flew in on Monday morning for his witness testimony. He was questioned by a prosecutor for just under an hour, describing in broad terms his relationship with Trump and Barrack, including his first meeting with the then-president elect in December 2016, when he said he was surprised to be offered the job of secretary of state. Tillerson said the invitation came at the end of a Trump Tower briefing in which "we just kind of did a walk around the globe," discussing foreign policy. He went on to describe that while he was CEO of Exxon, he had briefed several past presidents and vice presidents given his knowledge of foreign officials, but clarified that those conversations never touched on U.S. policy, saying, "I didn't offer any advice." The defense tried to draw parallel's between Tillerson's time in international business to Barrack's, but Tillerson quickly made clear that while he was the CEO of Exxon, he tried to steer clear of politics. Foreign officials may have asked about what was happening in Washington, but "not as often as you think." He later explained that if officials did ask, that "doesn't mean I would answer." Once he was confirmed to the post in February 2017, Tillerson said he had hour-long meetings scheduled with Trump every Tuesday and Thursday, as well an "informal standing lunch meeting on Fridays" that also included then-Vice President Mike Pence and Trump's chief of staff. Tillerson said that he had received a call from Barrack "expressing an interest in serving as an ambassador," but when Tillerson brought it up to Trump, "He did not proactively say, 'Yes, please take a look at Mr. Barrack for this or that role.'" Tillerson said he did not follow up. On cross examination, defense attorney Randall Jackson highlighted Tillerson's career prior to serving as secretary of state, when he was CEO of Exxon. Jackson and Tillerson ran through several examples of his engagement with the leaders of countries such as Yemen, Qatar and Russia while representing Exxon's interests. Jackson noted that Tillerson knew Russian President Vladimir Putin and Igor Sechin, a right hand man to Putin who is CEO of Russian state oil company Rosneft. "You do know that Mr. Putin and Mr. Sechin at some point in their careers had roles in the KGB?" Jackson asked. Tillerson said he was aware of Putin's history, but knew only that Sechin had served in the military. Tillerson explained that he met Putin in 1996 and acknowledged he was awarded Russia's Order of Friendship while at Exxon. That acquaintance, he said, ended when he left government. "I don't know him anymore," Tillerson told the jury. Tillerson was also asked if he ever registered as a foreign agent. He replied that he often checked with his lawyers if that was needed for various issues, but was never told he had to do so. Barrack was charged in July 2021 and has pleaded not guilty. At the time, he was executive chairman of investment firm Colony Capital, which is now known as DigitalBridge. Also charged was a Colony Capital employee named Matthew Grimes, and Rashid Al Malik, an Emirati citizen then living in California. Grimes entered not guilty pleas to charges of acting as an unregistered foreign agent. Al Malik, who was also charged with acting as an unregistered foreign agent, has not been located by law enforcement. Prosecutors allege Al Malik was a middleman through whom Barrack and Grimes communicated with UAE officials, seeking their input on Barrack's efforts to sway American foreign policy. During the first two weeks of Barrack's trial, jurors heard from members of law enforcement and an expert on Gulf region monarchies. The government's presentation has so far revolved around text messages and emails between Barrack and his co-defendants. Jurors have also been shown messages sent by Barrack in 2016 to Trump's daughter, Ivanka, and her husband Jared Kushner pushing for the Trump campaign to hire Paul Manafort, who later served as chair of the campaign for about two months. Jurors were also shown messages sent by Barrack to Manafort about a speech then-candidate Trump was preparing to deliver on energy policy. Jackson also asked Tillerson about a moment when Trump appeared to publicly disagree with his approach to a foreign policy issue. On September 30, 2017, Tillerson said during a press conference in Beijing that the U.S. government had "channels open to Pyongyang," the capital of North Korea. The next day, Trump tweeted, "I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man" Tillerson said that he and Trump were actually not in disagreement, but instead playing "good cop bad cop." What to expect from the Supreme Court's new term Ukrainian troops push back Russian forces Scholarship helps teens overcome challenges Imagine this: Hillary Clinton wins the 2016 presidential election. Seeking to unify the country in 2017, she chooses President Barack Obamas failed compromise nominee for the Supreme Court, Merrick Garland, to replace the late Associate Justice Antonin Scalia. Liberals now control the court, 5-4. Over the next several years, Associate Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen Breyer and, yes, even Republican nominee Anthony Kennedy retire, enabling Clinton to create a 6-3 liberal majority. Abortion remains legal, concealed guns dont proliferate on the streets, and the line between church and state remains firm. Thats not all: Tempted by their newfound supermajority, the six liberals bolster the recently decimated Voting Rights Act, uphold new restrictions on campaign spending and block political gerrymandering. They declare most state abortion restrictions unconstitutional and allow strict new controls on firearms. Looking ahead, they have the death penalty in their sights. Would the legitimacy of the high court be questioned? Of course it would. It goes both ways. Questions about the legitimacy of the Supreme Court would apply regardless of ideological split. Ideology undermines trust in court This is what the courts six conservatives should take into account as the curtain rises on the 2022 term, one in which affirmative action, LGBTQ rights and election regulation so far are on the docket. If it would be wrong for a court built by Hillary Clinton to go so far left, its wrong for the one built by Donald Trump to go too far right. Americans expect the White House and Congress to behave politically, erratically, even irrationally. But the nations legal system, led by the black-robed Supreme Court, is supposed to be more mature. When it lays down the law, it should be based on interpretations of the Constitution, federal and state statutes, and legal precedents not political party or ideology. On Sept. 30, 2022, from left: Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Sonia Sotomayor and Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John Roberts, and Associate Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Samuel Alito, Elena Kagan and Brett Kavanaugh. Isnt it curious, then, that the courts conservatives nearly always find a legal basis to support decisions that align with conservative ideology? And that the liberals are on the other side, decrying the defeat of progressive outcomes? Story continues It is true that the justices, from far left to far right, are more often unanimous than anything else. Those cases nearly always are nonideological, offering both sides an opportunity to show they can agree. An infamous adult prison is no place for kids: Get it together, Louisiana We the people have broken our country: Division in Washington reflects that fact But in 14 cases last term more than 20% of the docket the result was 6-3 along partisan lines, with both conservatives and liberals voting in a bloc. That included the landmark ruling striking down abortion rights, as well as divisive decisions on guns, religion and environmental regulation. This is why only 40% of respondents in a recent Gallup poll approved of the work of the nation's highest court, an 18-point drop from 2020. Its why only 47% said they trusted the judicial branch of the federal government, the lowest level since 1972. Humility, restraint could preserve integrity Whats the solution? Short of a structural fix such as imposing term limits on Supreme Court justices an idea gaining steam but remains years if not decades away it requires the justices to take into consideration the countrys appetite for change. That doesnt mean doctrinaire conservative justices such as Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito must change their long-held views. It doesnt mean Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett must relinquish their adherence to so-called originalism and cease defending the Constitution. It doesnt mean Chief Justice John Roberts and his closest ally, Brett Kavanaugh, should hold up their fingers to the wind in search of political compromise a solution that would rely on politics to make the court appear less political. Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store. Dumping Roe may backfire on abortion opponents: Republicans should have been ready What it does mean is that the justices should exercise a little humility. They should decline to hear cases that advance their ideology when there is no pressing need to consider them, such as a conflict among lower courts. When they do hear controversial cases, they should give recent court precedents the benefit of the doubt, rather than overturning them rapidly and creating chaos on the ground the current state of play in many states on abortion. They should adhere to Roberts admonition during his 2005 confirmation hearing: Judges should not reach beyond the confines of a case to decide more than necessary. That would make the 2022 term that opens Monday quite different from its predecessor. Colleges and universities might remain free to consider race as one limiting factor in admissions, a precedent that dates to 1978. The Constitution might not be read so rigidly as to permit discrimination against LGBTQ customers in the marketplace, or to let elected state legislators escape judicial review of the rules governing elections. Affirmative action: My race may have played a factor in my college rejections, but I support affirmative action Or not. It doesnt mean conservatives must give in. It does mean that decisions should not be so predictable. So one-sided. And so inviting of reversal, once the other side regains the majority. Just a bit of judicial humility would go a long way toward restoring faith in the nations high court before it loses its legitimacy. More from Richard Wolf: Abortion returns to the states, but states can't make gun decisions? This is the Trump Court. Don't blame Supreme Court justices for behaving as expected. Change how they are chosen. This Supreme Court, built by politics, doesn't deserve to rule on Roe v. Wade. Richard Wolf reported on the Supreme Court, the White House and Congress during a 45-year career in journalism. Follow him on Twitter: @richardjwolf You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Supreme Court: What conservative justices should weigh on legitimacy World Metaverse Show brings together global metaverse leaders, investors, media outlets, government representatives and fans - all under one roof. Tonomus' Beverly Rider to join the show as speaker. Dubai, United Arab Emirates--(Newsfile Corp. - October 3, 2022) - The inaugural edition of the World Metaverse Show is set to take place in Dubai. #WMSDubai, scheduled to take place between October 5 and 6, 2022 at The Address Hotel, Dubai Marina, UAE, is billed as an elite gathering of the global metaverse and Web3 ecosystem. World Metaverse Show, Dubai, October 5th-6th To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8653/139228_WMS%20Banner%202_550.jpg Beverly Rider - Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Marketing Officer of Tonomus, the world-leading cognitive technology enterprise, as well as Chief Executive Officer of Portfolio T, Tonomus' venture studio- is joining the event as speaker. A leader with diverse global exposure to industry and digital transformation, business incubation, enterprise, industrial and consumer IoT, smart and cognitive cities, cloud and telecommunications, Rider is tasked with building and managing a world-class commercial organization comprising sales and channels, ventures, solutions, delivery, communications, events, and product and field marketing. She also brings extensive commercial, business and legal experience from having served in the C-suite at Fortune 10 and Global 100 companies. Mohammed Saleem, CEO of WBS, said, "World Metaverse Show will offer a unique chance to engage with global metaverse influencers, as well as handpicked investors and important government delegations." He further added, "We are excited to have Beverly Rider join as a speaker at World Metaverse Show and are looking forward to an incredibly knowledgeable and insightful session." About World Blockchain Summit (WBS) Events WBS is a global series of blockchain, crypto, Web3 and metaverse-focused events that has brought together over 20,000 industry influencers, investors, enterprise decision makers and government stakeholders through physical events hosted in over 16 countries. Story continues WBS is dedicated to fostering the growth of the decentralized economy through community development, boosting technological innovation with access to capital, and enabling enterprise and government adoption of Web3 technologies through deal facilitation. Each summit features enterprise and government use-cases, inspirational keynotes, panel discussions, tech-talks, a blockchain exhibition, start-up pitch competitions, and a host of networking opportunities. Other upcoming platforms organised by WBS Events in 2022 include the World Blockchain Summit - Dubai, taking place between October 17 and 19, and the World Blockchain Summit Bangkok in December. For more information and tickets, visit www.worldmetaverseshow.com Media Details: Elisha Patel elisha@lunapr.io To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/139228 SINGAPORE, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leveraging its industry-leading multibrand service capabilities, Vestas has secured a multibrand service agreement from Eurus Energy Holdings and started servicing for the Eurus Seto Wind Farm in Ehime prefecture, Japan. Vestas Logo (PRNewsfoto/Vestas) Vestas will deliver a 5.5-year Active Output Management 4000 (AOM 4000) service agreement for the operation and maintenance of 4 units of G80 2 MW Gamesa wind turbines. The AOM 4000 programme includes a time-based availability guarantee and is designed to maximise uptime and ensure optimised performance. Vestas is the wind industry's largest multibrand service provider with more than 9.5 GW of non-Vestas turbines currently under service globally. Vestas' multibrand expertise and global footprint is being utilised to deliver full scope service across all major original equipment manufacturers (OEM) including Gamesa. Vestas' service business is built on a strong, global foundation, combining operational data from more than 48,000 monitored turbines with technical experience from over 10,000 service technicians and a supply chain of more than 1,200 suppliers world-wide. This enables Vestas to provide services that minimise O&M costs and cater for local needs. For media inquiries, please contact: Megumi Sakuma Marketing & Communications Manager, Japan Vestas Japan Co., Ltd. mgskm@vestas.com Tel: +81 90 6723 5325 About Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation operates from its headquarters in Japan. Its development activities are managed through its worldwide locations in Japan (Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation), the United States (Eurus Energy America) and Europe (Eurus Energy Europe). Eurus Energy Holdings recognized the potential of wind energy ahead of many other players. It is the largest wind power developer in Japan and is one of the world leaders in the field. About Vestas Vestas is the energy industry's global partner on sustainable energy solutions. We design, manufacture, install, and service onshore and offshore wind turbines across the globe, and with more than 154 GW of wind turbines in 87 countries, we have installed more wind power than anyone else. Through our industry-leading smart data capabilities and unparalleled more than 133 GW of wind turbines under service, we use data to interpret, forecast, and exploit wind resources and deliver best-in-class wind power solutions. Together with our customers, Vestas' more than 29,000 employees are bringing the world sustainable energy solutions to power a bright future. Story continues For updated Vestas photographs and videos, please visit our media images page on: https://www.vestas.com/en/media/images. We invite you to learn more about Vestas by visiting our website at www.vestas.com following us on our social media channels: SOURCE Vestas Japan During the New York FIlm Festival, Whoopi Goldberg revealed that she wants Carolyn Bryant Donham, the white woman behind Emmett Tills lynching, to confess and admit to lying on him. I dont want her in jail but I want her in front of a judge and jury, Goldberg, 66, told Page Six exclusively. I want her to admit what she did and what part she had. And then, you know, for me, that would be perfect, instead of still trying to hide what she did away. More from VIBE.com In August, a Mississippi grand jury declined to indict Donham, according to the New York Post. Donham alleged that Till had whistled at her back in 1955, which led to his racially-based lynching on Aug. 28th. The 14-year-old was tragically murdered while visiting relatives in Mississippi when he was accused by Donham at a grocery store where she worked. Donham (21 at the time of Tills death) is now 88 and still a free woman. She has never been arrested or charged for her role in the lynching. Her then-husband, Roy Bryant, and brother-in-law, J.W. Milam were each acquitted of actually committing the murder. Both men are now deceased. Whoopi Goldberg Demands Emmett Till Accuser Related Story 65 Years After Emmett Till's Murder, Congress Finally Makes Lynching A Federal Hate Crime Goldbergs comments come about as she is executive producer and plays the role of Alma Carthan in the forthcoming film Till. She told the outlet, She didnt think the movie would have been made, hadnt the film secured financial backing following the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter protests. I would like to be more positive, but I think George Floyd had a lot to do with why this got made, she said. Till, starring Jalyn Hall, Danielle Deadwyler, and Frankie Faison, is set to premiere in theaters on Oct. 14. Take a look at the trailer for Till below. Click here to read the full article. Santiago Ochoas reporting for the Yakima Herald-Republic is possible with support from Report for America and community members through the Yakima Valley Community Fund . For information on republishing, email news@yakimaherald.com. You are the owner of this article. The exodus from Cuba will aggravate hunger and hamper reconstruction 'This many Cubans have never emigrated in such a short time span, and this should be considered a record on the continent.' "El ultimo, que apague la farola del Morro" ("Whoevers the last one to leave, please turn off the lamp in the Morro lighthouse.") This was a popular phrase in Cuba that I heard many times in Havana in the early 90s, after Castroism's weaning from its Soviet nurse, which had just died of natural causes. The phrase, typical of Cuban wit, arose in the face of the flood of Cubans abandoning the country due to the privations of the "Special Period." Today, more than 30 years later, the expression is timelier than ever in the 63 years of Castroist dictatorship. In August of 2022 alone, 20,000 Cuban immigrants arrived in the United States illegally, an average of 645 daily. In just 31 days the number of Cubans arrived that can emigrate to the neighboring country annually with passport visas under the agreement between Washington and Havana. Through June 2022 Washington had granted 13,645 visas to Cuban applicants, and reported that it will deliver 20,000 immigrant visas by the end of the year. That is, in 11 months, between legal and illegal immigrants, 211,515 Cubans have emigrated to the United States, including 134 unaccompanied minors; that's almost 2% of the total population, at an unusual rate of 641 emigrants daily, or 27 every 60 minutes. Cuba's population is shrinking This many Cubans have never left the country this fast. This should be considered a record on the continent if one takes into account that Cuba is an island and no citizen can just walk out of the country, like Venezuelans fleeing Maduro's dictatorship can, or those who emigrate illegally from Mexico, Central America and South America. This trend has devastating consequences for Cuba, both in the immediate future and in the future. To begin with, it aggravates the country's demographic crisis, where the population is waning rather than increasing. According to the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), in 2021 the population of Cuba was 11,113,215, but in 2016 it was 11,239,224; in other words, in five years Cuba's total population dropped by 126,009. And this was not because of the Covid-19 pandemic, but rather because mass emigration is compounded by the fact that women on the island do not want to have children. Fertility is under the replacement rate of 2.06 children per woman, which is the Latin American average, according to the UN Population Fund. Thus, in Cuba there are more deaths than births. Recently, the ACN (the regime's news agency) revealed that in 2021 the number of inhabitants was down in 159 of the island's 168 municipalities. A thriving business for bandits, officials and three dictatorships What is outrageous is that it is now the dictatorship that is shamelessly driving people from the country; basically, for three reasons: 1) to relieve internal political pressure by protestors and avert possible social outbursts; 2) to feed fewer mouths; and 3) to increase the amount of money, packages and "mules" flowing from the United States to the Island, which meets needs that cannot be met by national production, due to Communism; and, at the same time, to reap profits from the business of moving Cubans to the United States by land, because those illegal Cuban emigrants pay out thousands of dollars. "When you arrive in Nicaragua (without a visa) they're waiting for you, and from there they take you to Honduras. It costs on average about $10,000 in total, because it's not only the very expensive ticket, but also them money for the "coyotes" in each country you pass through, and to the police, if they stop you, so that they don't arrest and deport you," a Cuban who arrived in Miami in February after completing the migratory route from Nicaragua explained to BBC Mundo. Where do those dollars come from? Mainly, from the community of Cuban exiles Although it does not seem so at first sight, Cubans are leaving their country for political, not economic reasons. The Castroist propaganda in this regard has been so incessant that most of those who have emigrated in the last 30 years actually believe that they did so for economic reasons, like millions of people from other poor countries did. False. Cuba is certainly very poor today, but, why is it so poor? Communism. Period. Before 1959 was one of the countries with the highest standards of living in Latin America, and a magnet attracting immigrants from all over the world. During the 57 years of the "bourgeois" republic, about 1.7 million immigrants from all over the world arrived in Cuba, and in December of 1958 there were 12,000 applications at the Cuban Embassy in Rome from Italians eager to emigrate. There was little reason to emigrate from Cuba. Foreign and domestic capital investments were flowing into the country, and very dynamic socio-economic advances were being made; Havana was one of the most beautiful and alluring cities in the world, in Hollywood considered the Paris of Latin America. The most exclusive fashion houses had locations in the Cuban capital, like Christian Dior, which had in El Encanto its only subsidiary outside the French capital and New York. The first waves of emigrants who fled after Castro seized power were clear that they were leaving for political reasons. They were sad because they were nostalgic about having lived in a country that was moving forward, prospering, and that they were proud of. But those who left later, especially after the disappearance of Cuba's Soviet sugar daddy, were generally relieved, as they harbored bitter memories of a country in which they suffered constant hardships that they wanted to forget. These latter emigrants were more likely to believe that they are leaving for economic reasons, but this is not true. They would be economic reasons if Cuba were a poor country with a market economy from which many still emigrated due to a lack of opportunities, but Communism prevails on the island: the State owns everything, controls everything, impedes the individual progress of citizens, and is responsible for the economic disaster and lack of opportunities in the country. Hunger worsens in Cuba, and its reconstruction will be hampered The current exodus, of almost Biblical proportions, has devastating consequences for Cuba. According to an analysis by Cuba Study Group, most of the people who are emigrating are between 20 and 40 years old. In other words, the country's active workforce is leaving it, which will now generate wealth in the United States and other countries, rather than in Cuba. This stampede of young people means that the population will be even older, and the Economically Active Population (EAP) smaller. Today Cuba has the oldest population in all of Latin America, with 23% of the Cuban population being over 60. With fewer people working, the State has diminished resources to support retirees and to cover the expenses of public health, education, social security, the rationing book, and to make the necessary investments. It is particularly serious and worrisome that the departure of human capital from Cuba will make it more difficult and costly to rebuild the devastated country in the post-Castro era. In short, we are dealing with one of the worst crimes committed by the Castro Ruz dynasty. Today one of Marti's celebrated phrases is more apropos than ever: "When a people has to emigrate, it is their rulers who should go." Update | WA state trooper shot in the face is being released from hospital, says his dad Portraits of murdered journalists pasted on the doors of the building of the Attorney General of the Republic during a demonstration held by Mexican journalists to protest against the murder of their colleague Fredid Roman in Mexico City on Aug. 24. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. Honda Cars India (HCIL), is a name of strong repute when it comes to selling cars that are reliable and offer a blend of performance and refinement. The Japanese carmaker is currently selling a handful of products in the Indian market, and it is having a tough time with no SUVs in its line-up. However, to encash the current festive season, the company has introduced a new Drive in 2022, Pay in 2023 scheme in collaboration with Kotak Mahindra Prime Limited (KMPL). The new scheme will be applicable on purchasing the Honda City and Amaze. It offers a unique financing option to the buyers, wherein they can take the car home now, while the regular EMIs start next year. Honda Cars India intends to enhance the consumers ease of buying experience and fulfil the desire to own a car of their choice, through this innovative scheme. The special festive scheme Drive in 2022, Pay in 2023 is in force with immediate effect and valid till October 31, 2022 for all variants of Honda City & Amaze. The finance will be available upto 85% of on-road cost of car with negligible cost EMI for the first three months and regular EMIs from fourth month onwards till the end of the tenure. Speaking about the initiative, Mr Kunal Behl, Vice President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd. said, Honda Cars India is always committed to offer its customers, the best of buying convenience & ownership experience. With this partnership with Kotak Mahindra Prime Limited, our valuable customers will have a unique opportunity to buy their favorite Honda City and Honda Amaze now and make the payment later. We urge our customers to avail this scheme to its best and look forward to more customers joining our Honda family and discover the delight of driving a Honda car. Also read - 2024 Maserati GranTurismo breaks cover with HOTTER bodyshell: Gets EV variant too Speaking on the collaboration, Mr Shahrukh Todiwala, President & Whole Time Director, Kotak Mahindra Prime Limited said, We have always cherished our partnership with Honda Cars India Ltd. We hope that our tailor-made car loan scheme for Honda customers will add to their joy this festive season. We encourage car buyers to make the most of this scheme and own their dream Honda car through easy instalments. To curb the theft of vehicles and bring uniformity in their identity marks, the Union government made HSRP mandatory for every newly registered vehicle from April 1, 2019, putting the onus on manufacturers to install these number plates in every new vehicle, before handing them over to the customers. However, over seven lakh newly registered vehicles, including the ones used for VVIPs like the chief minister and deputy chief minister, in Maharashtra are plying without High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), RTO officials stated. The HSRP rule has been in place for more than three and a half years intending to curb theft of vehicles and for standardisation. When asked about the reason for non-compliance, a senior official cited the absence of a specific rule to take action against a vehicle plying sans HSRP. Hence, they slap a fine of Rs 2,000 for spotting a fancy number plate. Another official said some dealers of vehicles flout the HSRP rule and hand over new vehicles to customers without fitting these plates on vehicles, which is mandatory. Of the nearly 69 lakh new vehicles registered in Maharashtra since April 2019, only about 61 lakh vehicles are fitted with HSRPs, popularly called 'IND' or INDIA number plates. "As many as 7.68 lakh new vehicles registered in Maharashtra, including the bulletproof cars used for VVIPs such as the chief minister and the deputy chief minister, interceptor and pilot vehicles of police, and leased buses in the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking's fleet, among others, are plying without HSRPs," officials of Regional Transport Offices said. Also read: Suzuki Access 125 launched in new colour scheme, priced at Rs 83,000 - Check here According to the latest report of the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), Maharashtra saw 27,740 cases of vehicle theft, including 3,282 from Mumbai. Despite the HSRP rule, many vehicles are still seen sporting fancy number plates, on which numbers are written in cursive fonts, different sizes, and languages (like Marathi and English). Notably, some vehicles fit HSRP on the front and fancy number plates on the rear side or visa-versa, officials said. In more than 61 lakh vehicles, HSRPs are installed using normal screws and nut bolts, instead of the snap lock or rivets, which is a violation of HSRP rules. "As the HSRPs are installed on the front and rear side of vehicles using normal screws and nut bolts instead of snap lock, after some time they fall off due to potholes on roads or other reasons. As a result of which, some vehicles are seen with missing or hanging HSRPs, defeating the very purpose," officials pointed out. A retired RTO official said some vehicle dealers install HSRPs using a plastic or metal case instead of rivets, in violation of rules. RTO offices and the office of the transport commissioner have turned a blind eye towards the non-use of snap locks for fitment of HSRPs, he alleged. The HSRP rule mandates that barring two-wheelers, every vehicle should have a chromium-based hologram sticker affixed on the inner side of the vehicle's windshield specifying details of registration, but in many vehicles, these stickers are missing though they sport HSRPs, officials said. Made of a rare aluminum alloy, HSRP contains a retro-reflective film with a verification inscription 'India', chromium-based Ashok Chakra hologram, the hot-stamped letter "IND" in blue, and a 10-digit laser-branding of a unique serial number, making it tamper-proof. If fitted using a snap lock, the HSRP will damage if tried to be removed forcefully. In Maharashtra, 8,90,960 lakh vehicles were registered till August in the current financial year. Maharashtra's vehicle population is over 4 crore, but the state government has not yet made these number plates mandatory for vehicles registered before March 31, 2019. "Dealers of vehicle manufacturers install HSRPs to new vehicles before handing them to customers. This is done once the vehicle number is generated after online registration at RTO. Dealers are responsible for procuring and installing HSRPs on vehicles after procuring from the suppliers," officials said. Also read: Hero Motocorp offering discounts of upto Rs 5,000 on two-wheelers this festive season, check LAST date here They said the transport department has also made it a must for dealers to upload photos and details of HSRPs on the VAHAN portal used nationally for storing data about vehicles, and on the fitment of HSRPs. Until then, the registration certificate of the vehicle is not printed at RTO. If any vehicle is found without HSRP, the dealers will face suspension of their trade certificates for specific days but despite this rule, some dealers hand over vehicles, especially from the commercial category, to customers without HSRPs, officials said. "In some cases, they (dealers) send the HSPR kit to customers later and ask them to get it fitted themselves. This is the reason HSRPs on several vehicles were found fitted with screw or nut bolts instead of snap locks," he added. A motor vehicle inspector said there is no specific rule for taking action against the vehicle if caught without HSRPs. He said the transport commissioner's office has directed all RTOs to suspend the trade certificate of dealers for a specific period for the first, second, and third offences for handing over new vehicles to customers without HSRPs. Maharashtra Transport Department Additional Commissioner J B Patil said RTO officials have been directed to take action in the matter. "We are conducting a special drive against vehicles without fitness documents. We will ask RTO officers to check vehicles without HSRPs as well," he added. Some RTO officials also pointed out that even after more than three years, a majority of vehicles, especially two-wheelers and heavy vehicles, do not come with designated places for installing HSRPs. (With inputs from PTI) The Centre-run Alliance Air has confirmed to cater passengers on Bilaspur-Indore route in Madhya Pradesh. The airlines will operate flights four days a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The Chief Minister of state - Bhupesh Baghel, virtually launched the program. The flights will operate via the Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport in Bilaspur, which is located roughly 125 km away from the capital. Alliance Air will use an ATR 72-seater aircraft for this route. During the inaugural flight, it took off from Indore at 11:35 AM with a total of 50 passengers. Speaking on the occasion, Baghel said the state government has been making every possible effort to expand air travel services in the state and the flight connectivity between Bilaspur and Indore will accelerate development and benefit people of Bilaspur division. He requested Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiradiya Scindia, who virtually presided over the function from Delhi, to start flight services from Bilaspur to metro cities of Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru. The chief minister urged Scindia to launch international flights from Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur, and said the state government had provided 461.20 acres of land to the Airport Authority of India free of cost for expansion of the airport, which now has facilities such as runway, new terminal building, ATC tower as per international standards. The first regular domestic service was started by Alliance Air on Delhi-Jabalpur-Bilaspur-Prayagraj airway on March 1 last year and then between Bilaspur and Bhopal on June 5 this year, but the services were later suspended, he said. Baghel further said the state government had spent Rs 25.10 crore so far for the development of Bilaspur airport. Works worth Rs 22 crore are being sanctioned to develop Bilaspur airport as per 3-C IFR standard and for night landing facility, he said. The chief minister also requested Scindia to ensure that the Centre returns 1,000 acre of land, which had been allotted for setting up an Army cantonment next to Bilaspur airport, citing that it has not been used by the Defence ministry as yet. If the Centre returns the land, it will be used for the expansion of Bilaspur airport, he said. The development of Ambikapur airport in the state will be completed by December this year, he added. Scindia, in his address, said the Centre plans to set up around 200 airports, heliports and water aerodromes by 2026. The Union minister said the Centre will extend all technical support for the expansion of Bilaspur airport. He also appealed to people to make maximum use of the flight service, citing that the service which was started from Bilaspur earlier was suspended due to low number of passengers daily. With inputs from PTI. An aide to Alabamas 2nd District U.S. Congressman Barry Moore was jailed Monday after a Geneva County grand jury indicted her on insurance fraud charges. Sherry McCormick turned herself in at the Geneva County Jail Monday. McCormick, who works as director of special constituent services and events in Moores Dothan office, has had prior legal entanglements, having been sentenced to eight months in federal prison after a 2018 conviction of health care fraud in Georgia. McCormick submitted almost $500,000 in fraudulent claims, AL.com reported from court records. She was required to pay $447,705.11 in restitution as part of her sentence at the rate of at least $200 a month. AL.com reports that Moores office did not immediately respond to questions about the indictment or McCormicks employment status. WFSA reported that a spokesperson stated the office believes the case is simply a misunderstanding that will be made clear as this is resolved through the legal process. A Bomb threat onboard Iranian passenger jet belonging to Mahan Air over the Indian airspace has been reported by ANI. The passenger plane was moving from Iran to China, as per initial reports. After the trigger was alerted, IAF has scrambled its Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets and the passenger jet is now moving towards China. The foreign aircraft was headed to China as its final destination, had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane, sources told ANI. #WATCH | A lone Sukhoi jet was seen over Jodhpur IAF airbase before LCH induction ceremony began & ahead of the arrival of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Earlier today, Sukhoi jets were scrambled to address an aerial emergency with an Iranian passenger jet. pic.twitter.com/DBzqrorinW October 3, 2022 The nature of the bomb threat is still unclear, however, the aircraft is now out of the Indian airspace and is being closely monitored by security agencies. According to sources, inputs were received by security agencies in Delhi about the possibility of a bomb on board, which triggered an alert and permission was not granted to the plane to land in Delhi. A Mahan Air flight, Tehran -> Guangzhou, received a bomb threat when flying over India. According to @ANI "Delhi ATC suggested the aircraft to go to Jaipur but the aircraft pilot refused & left Indian airspace" Currently about 2h away from Guangzhou https://t.co/mk6FioNbBe pic.twitter.com/D3nUinv1Mu Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) October 3, 2022 The Indian ATC granted Mahan Air permission to land in Jaipur. However, the pilot decided to move forward to its final destination to China instead of landing in India. IAF issues statement "On 03 October 2022, intimation was received of a bomb scare on an airline bearing Iranian registration, when it was transiting through Indian airspace. IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled, which followed the aircraft at a safe distance. The aircraft was offered the option to land at Jaipur & then, at Chandigarh," said IAF. "However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports. After a while, intimation was received from Tehran to disregard the bomb scare, following which, the aircraft continued on its journey towards its final destination. All actions were taken by IAF as per the laid down procedure, jointly with Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), IAF added. With ANI Inputs As per various flight tracking websites, the Mahan Air Flight 81 has successfully landed at the Guangzhou International Airport in China, after facing a bomb threat on October 3, 2022. The flight that originated from Tehran, Iran was flying over the Indian airspace towards China, when a bomb threat alarm was raised to the Indian authorities. While the Indian Air Force scrambled its IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI as per laid procedures, the ATC requested the pilots to land at either Jaipur or Chandigarh airports as against their initial request to land at the Delhi International Airport. After denial to land at either of the airports, the pilots continued their journey and have landed plane in China. As per a recent statement issued by the Indian Air Force over the potential bomb threat over the Indian airspace, the pilot of the Mahan Air flight refused to land the airliner in Chandigarh and Jaipur and chose to fly towards China instead. The pilot of Mahan Air flight from Tehran to Guangzhou, China reported a bomb threat when the plane was passing over the Indian airspace. While the pilot requested to land in Delhi at the IGI Airport, IAF and ATC gave them an option to land at the Jaipur and Chandigarh airports in the vicinity of the Delhi Airport. The pilot, refused the call and continued his journey towards China, as per the IAF. However, as per the laid down procedure, jointly with Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the aircraft was under close radar surveillance by the Air Force throughout the Indian airspace. On 03 October 2022, intimation was received of a bomb scare on an airline bearing Iranian registration, when it was transiting through Indian airspace. IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled, which followed the aircraft at a safe distance. "The aircraft was offered the option to land at Jaipur & then, at Chandigarh. However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports. After a while, intimation was received from Tehran to disregard the bomb scare, following which, the aircraft continued on its journey towards its final destination," said IAF. The foreign aircraft was headed to China as its final destination, had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane, sources told ANI. As per a recent statement issued by the Indian Air Force over the potential bomb threat over the Indian airspace, the pilot of the Mahan Air flight refused to land the airliner in Chandigarh and Jaipur and chose to fly towards China instead. The pilot of Mahan Air flight from Tehran to Guangzhou, China reported a bomb threat when the plane was passing over the Indian airspace. While the pilot requested to land in Delhi at the IGI Airport, IAF and ATC gave them an option to land at the Jaipur and Chandigarh airports in the vicinity of the Delhi Airport. A Mahan Air flight, Tehran -> Guangzhou, received a bomb threat when flying over India. According to @ANI "Delhi ATC suggested the aircraft to go to Jaipur but the aircraft pilot refused & left Indian airspace" Currently about 2h away from Guangzhou https://t.co/mk6FioNbBe pic.twitter.com/D3nUinv1Mu Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) October 3, 2022 The pilot, refused the call and continued his journey towards China, as per the IAF. However, as per the laid down procedure, jointly with Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the aircraft was under close radar surveillance by the Air Force throughout the Indian airspace. On 03 October 2022, intimation was received of a bomb scare on an airline bearing Iranian registration, when it was transiting through Indian airspace. IAF fighter aircraft were scrambled, which followed the aircraft at a safe distance. "The aircraft was offered the option to land at Jaipur & then, at Chandigarh. However, the pilot declared his unwillingness to divert to either of the two airports. After a while, intimation was received from Tehran to disregard the bomb scare, following which, the aircraft continued on its journey towards its final destination," said IAF. The foreign aircraft was headed to China as its final destination, had entered Indian airspace when the alert from Indian Air Traffic Control was shared with the plane. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter jets from Punjab and Jodhpur airbases were scrambled to intercept the plane, sources told ANI. New Delhi: Director Mani Ratnam's magnum opus 'Ponniyin Selvan 1', which is based on eminent writer Kalki's literary classic by the same name, has grossed a whopping sum of Rs 200 crore worldwide so far, its makers announced on Monday. Lyca Productions, which has jointly produced the critically acclaimed superhit film along with director Mani Ratnam's Madras Talkies, on Monday, along with a poster that said the film had grossed Rs 200 crore worldwide, tweeted: "Marching on and making history! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the audience who've been showering us with love! Catch #PS1 in theatres near you!" The film has managed to rake in this huge amount in just three days. The film has already entered history books by becoming the film with the biggest ever opening in Tamil cinema. The film grossed a worldwide sum of over Rs 80 crore on its very first day. 'Ponniyin Selvan 1', which had triggered huge expectations, released on Friday much to the delight of fans and received a thunderous welcome from audiences. The film seems to have struck a chord with audiences of all age groups. The film has caught the attention of senior citizens in particular, as it is based on the literary classic by Kalki. Several senior citizens who had given up the practise of going to theatres are now making an exception in the case of this film as they are eager to watch the classic on screen. 'Ponniyin Selvan', the first part of which released on Friday, is a story based on the early life of prince Arun Mozhi Varman, who later went on to be known as the great Raja Chozhan. Called by Mani Ratnam as his dream project, the film features a host of top stars including actors Vikram, Aishwarya Rai, Trisha, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Jayaram, Parthiban, Lal, Vikram Prabhu, Jayaram, Prabhu and Prakash Raj. The film is among the most expensive projects ever undertaken in the country and is based on the Tamil classic 'Ponniyin Selvan' by eminent writer Kalki. Durga Puja 2022: Durga Ashtami 2022 will be celebrated on October 3. This celebration, which takes place on the third day of Durga Puja, is also known as Maha Ashtami. It is among the most auspicious days of the 5-day Pujo festivities. Maha Ashtami 2022, which falls on the eighth day of the 9-day Hindu festival of Sharad Navaratri, is certain to be celebrated with lots of joy and excitement. As we prepare to celebrate Durga Ashtami 2022, here are some Happy Durga Ashtami wishes and messages, Happy Maha Ashtami greetings, and WhatsApp messages that you can share. 1) May goddess Durga protects your family from evil and empowers you with the light of knowledge and truth. Happy Durga Ashtami! 2) May the arrival of Maa Durga, the embodiment of shakti, bring an end to all pain and anguish. Wishing you a Happy Durga Ashtami! 3) Maa ka tyohaar aaya hai, anginat khushiyan laya hai, har manokamna poori ho aapki, vardaani ka ashish chhaaya hai. Wishing you a Happy Durga Ashtami. 4) May Goddess Durga shows us the path to eternal peace and prosperity. May she bless us with the power to defeat the evils in our life! Happy Durga Ashtami. 5) May Goddess Durga gives you the strength to fight for good and overcome evil. Sending my special wishes for a joyous celebration of Durga Ashtami. 6) May this festival fill your life with new joys that surround you and your loved ones with positive vibes, now and forever. Happy Maha Ashtami to you. 7) May the divine blessings of Goddess Durga bring eternal peace and happiness and protect you from wrongdoings and grant all your wishes. Happy Durga Ashtami. 8) Shubh Durga Ashtami to everybody. May this festival fill your life with new joy and positive energy. 9) May Maa Durga give prosperity to you and your family. May she shower you with her countless blessings. Happy Durga Ashtami. Also Read: Planning to GIFT something special to your wife this Durga Puja? Check THIS out Subho Maha Ashtami 2022! MUMBAI: With states after states competing to offer freebies, a report has suggested that the Supreme Court-led panel could cap such welfare schemes at 1 per cent of the state's GDP or 1 per cent of its own tax collection. Citing the examples of just three states, a report penned by Soumya Kanti Ghosh, the group chief economic adviser to State Bank of India, said annual pension liabilities of the poor states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Rajasthan are estimated at Rs 3 lakh crore. When looked in relation to these states own tax revenue, pension liabilities are quite high for Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh at 217, 190 and 207 per cent respectively. While for states contemplating the change, it would be as high as 450 per cent of own tax revenue in case of Himachal Pradesh, 138 per cent of own tax revenue in case of Gujarat and 242 per cent of own tax revenue for Punjab, which is also planning to revert to the old pension system wherein the beneficiaries pay nothing. Ghosh also points out that according to the latest available information, the off-budget borrowings of states, which are loans raised by state-owned entities and guaranteed by the states, have reached around 4.5 percent of GDP in 2022 and the extent of such guarantees have achieved significant proportion of GDP for various states. The report suggests that the apex court panel fix a band, say 1 per cent of GSDP or 1 per cent of state own tax collections or 1 per cent of state revenue expenditure for these welfare schemes, he says. Such guarantee amount is significant at 11.7 per cent of GDP for Telangana, 10.8 per cent for Sikkim, 9.8 per cent for Andhra, 7.1 per cent for Rajasthan, and 6.3 per cent for UP. While the power sector accounts for almost 40 per cent of these guarantees, other beneficiaries include sectors like irrigation, infrastructure development, food and water supply. On the cost of the election promises made by various political parties in the poll-bound states as percentage of revenue receipts and own tax revenue of these states it is 1-3 and 2-10 in Himachal 5-8, and 8-13 in Gujarat respectively. The unfunded pension liabilities of the state which have gone back to the old pension scheme or pay as you go scheme, or planning to do so as percentage of own tax revenue, it's a staggering 450 for Himachal, 138 for Gujarat, 207 for Chhattisgarh, 190 for Rajasthan, 217 for Jharkhand and 242 for Punjab. The combined liabilities of the states which have reverted to the old pension scheme/or have promised to do so stood at Rs 3,45,505 crore in FY20 and the same will go up as percentage of GSDP of Chattisgarh to 1.9 and and incremental burden of 60,000 crore from Rs 6,638 crore in FY20. For Jharkhand it was Rs 6,005 crore and will be 1.7 per cent of GSDP and will increase by Rs 54,000 crore; Rajasthan Rs 20,761 core, 6 per cent and will jump by Rs 1.87 lakh crore; Punjab ? Rs 10,294 crore, 3 per cent and will rise by Rs 92,000 crore, Himachal?Rs 5,490 crore, 1.6 per cent of GSDP and will rise by Rs 49,000 crore and for Gujarat the pension burden was Rs 17,663 crore in FY20 and will jump to 5.1 per cent of GDP and will rise by 1.59 lakh crore. When the freebies announced by the states in FY23 are compared to percentage of the each of the state's GDP and revenue receipts and own tax revenue, they are more staggering. Quoting from a recent RBI paper on financial assistance/cash transfers, utility subsidies, loan or fee waivers and interest free loans announced by the states in their latest budgets, estimate expenditure on freebies range from 0.1-2.7 per cent of GSDP for different states. The freebies have exceeded 2 percent of GSDP for some of the highly indebted states such as Andhra and Punjab. Tata Motors, the homegrown automaker recently launched the Tata Tiago EV as one of the most affordable electric cars in India and also the cheapest electric car with over 300 km battery range. The Tata Tiago.ev was launched in India at an introductory price of Rs 8.49 lakh (ex-showroom) for the first 10,000 customers, of which, 2,000 are reserved for the existing Tata customers. The launch of the Tata Tiago EV has made Tata Motors the most versatile automaker in the country. Tata Motors is now the only automaker to offer an electric vehicle in all three body types, including SUV, sedan, and hatchback segments. Speaking about the EV portfolio of the Tata Motors, the company is now the largest maker of electric cars in India, and has the most diversified portfolio as well. Tata Motors announced a new vertical for EVs called the Tata Electric Passenger Vehicles Ltd and the trick has worked fine for the brand. Tata now has a hatchback in the form of the recently launched Tata Tiago EV, a sedan in the form of the Tata Tigor EV and a SUV in the form of the Tata Nexon EV. The Tata Nexon EV happens to be the best-selling electric car in India, leaving behind competition by a huge margin. Tata is offering the Nexon EV in two configurations, Tata Nexon EV Prime and Tata Nexon EV Max, both catering to a different set of buyers with battery range, features and pricing. Tata powertrain options Not just electric cars, Tata Motors is the only automaker in India to offer cars that come with multiple powertrain options. Tata Motors is offering its cars that can be run on fuels including, CNG, petrol and diesel. On the hand, Tata Electric is offering cars that have electric powertrain. This makes Tata the only automaker in India and in the world, to achieve this feat. Tata Tiago EV: Specs As for the Tata Tiago EV itself, the electric hatchback gets two battery pack options powering the EV. It gets a battery pack of 24 kWh with an MIDC range of 315 km. There is also a smaller battery pack with 19.2 kWh providing a range of 250 km. Moreover, the hatchback gets four charging options. It can be charged using a 15 A socket at home, a 3.3 kW AC charger, 7.2 kW AC home charger, and DC Fast charger as well. The hatchback has a power output of 55kW and a peak torque of 114 Nm. This results in an acceleration from 0-100 kmph in 5.7 seconds. There are also drive modes and Regen modes for added battery range. New Delhi: Controversy erupted at a Durga puja pandal in Kolkata where the Mahiasura was replaced by a Mahatma Gandhi-lookalike. Photos of the pandal went viral on social media on the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation. The puja was organised by Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha in southwest Kolkata near Ruby Crossing. After a police complaint was filed against the alleged representation of Gandhi as an asura, the organisers changed the appearance of the particular idol. "The Durga idol that was worshipped here initially had a Mahisasur whose face looked similar to that of Mahatma Gandhi. The similarities are just a coincidence. After photos of it went viral, a police team visited the pandal and asked us to change the face," Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha state working President Chandrachur Goswami told PTI on Sunday. "The police asked us to change it, and we obliged. We put a moustache and hair on Mahishasur's idol," he said. President of Bangiya Parishad Hindu Mahasabha Sandip Mukherjee condemned the incident. Also Read: Mamata Banerjee plays 'dhaank' at Durga puja pandal in Kolkata - WATCH He said, "We don't support what Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha did. We condemn it. We too had differences with Gandhi ji's views, but this is not a way to protest against it. Political parties such as the Trinamool Congress and the BJP also slammed the alleged depiction of Gandhi as 'Mahisasura'. The ruling Trinamool Congress state spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said if this was really done, it was nothing but sacrilege. "It is an insult to the father of the nation. It is an insult to every citizen of the country. What would the BJP say about such an insult? We know the assassin of Gandhiji belonged to which ideological camp," Ghosh added. The state BJP too criticised such a representation. "If such a move had been made, it is unfortunate. We condemn it. This is in poor taste," BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar told reporters. Every year, puja organisers choose a theme, mainly social issues, and use their pandals, idols and lighting arrangements to depict it. Many a time, the traditional Mahisasura was replaced by something that represents social evil. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: The Indian Air Force will on Monday induct the first batch of indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter, in a boost to its combat prowess as the multi-role platform is capable of firing a range of missiles and other weapons. The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), developed by state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), has been primarily designed for deployment in high-altitude regions. It will be inducted into the IAF at a ceremony in Jodhpur in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, officials said on Sunday. In a Twitter post, the defence minister said the induction of the new helicopters will be a "big boost" to the IAF's "combat prowess". "I would be in Jodhpur, Rajasthan tomorrow, 3rd October, to attend the Induction ceremony of the first indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopters (LCH). The induction of these helicopters will be a big boost to the IAF's combat prowess. Looking forward to it," Singh tweeted. I would be in Jodhpur, Rajasthan tomorrow, 3rd October, to attend the Induction ceremony of the first indigenously developed Light Comat Helicopters (LCH). The induction of these helicopters will be a big boost to the IAFs combat prowess. Looking forward to it. pic.twitter.com/L3nTfkJx5A Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 2, 2022 The 5.8-tonne twin-engine helicopter has already completed various weapons firing tests, the officials said. In March, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the procurement of 15 indigenously developed Limited Series Production (LSP) LCH at a cost of Rs 3,887 crore. The defence ministry had said 10 helicopters would be for the IAF and five for the Indian Army. The LCH has similarities with Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv. It has a number of stealth features, armoured-protection systems, night attack capability and crash-worthy landing gear for better survivability, the officials said. Also read: IAF to formally induct indigenously-built Light Combat Helicopter, all you need to know The LCH is equipped with requisite agility, manoeuvrability, extended range, high altitude performance and all-weather combat capability to perform a range of roles including combat search and rescue (CSAR), destruction of enemy air defence (DEAD) and counter-insurgency (CI) operations. The helicopter can also be deployed in high-altitude bunker-busting operations, counter-insurgency operations in the jungles and urban environments as well as for supporting ground forces. The helicopter can also be used against slow-moving aircraft and remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs) of adversaries. Officials said it would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of the IAF and the Indian Army. They said state-of-the-art technologies and systems compatible with stealth features such as reduced visual, aural, radar and IR signatures and crashworthiness features for better survivability have been integrated into the LCH for deployment in combat roles. Several key aviation technologies like a glass cockpit and composite airframe structure have been indigenised, they said, adding that the future series-production version will consist of further modern and indigenous systems. Four LCH helicopters have already been accepted by the IAF. The officials said the IAF plans to procure more LCH in the near future. "We are already working with DRDO and HAL to integrate new weapons on the helicopter," said one of the officials. The helicopter has been tested under stringent operating conditions including at sea level, in desert regions and in Siachen. In February 2020, it was declared ready for production. The Army has a plan to acquire 95 LCH largely for a combat role in the mountains. New Delhi: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot defended his loyalist MLAs who rebelled against Sachin Pilot potentially being the next chief minister of the state. While speaking to reporters on Sunday, Gehlot said he cannot ditch the 102 MLAs who had saved his government during the political crisis in 2020 and, therefore, he apologized to Sonia Gandhi as per a PTI report. Talking about the MLAs who had revolted against him in 2020, he accused them of colluding with the BJP to bring down the Congress. Also Read: Tharoor vs Kharge: Ashok Gehlot thinks THIS candidate should be Congress prez Several MLAs loyal to Gehlot, who was seen as the frontrunner for the post of the Congress national president, had last week submitted resignation letters over a possible move to appoint Pilot as the next chief minister. Gehlot later announced that he will not contest the Congress presidential polls as he took moral responsibility for the political crisis in his state. Referring to the crisis, he said 80-90 per cent of MLAs switch sides when a new chief minister is going to be appointed but this did not happen in Rajasthan. "When a chief minister is changed, 80-90 percent (MLAs) leave him and switch sides. They turn to the new candidate. I too don't consider it wrong. But it was a new case in Rajasthan where the MLAs got agitated just in the name of the new chief minister," Gehlot said without naming Pilot. When asked about the chances of the chief minister being changed now, Gehlot reiterated that it is for the party high command to decide. "I am doing my work and it is for the party high command to take a decision," he said. The veteran Congressman on Saturday asked the people to send suggestions about the next budget directly to him, hinting that he was there to stay. He also declared that he cannot remain away from the people of Rajasthan "till his last breath" and that the Congress government will complete its five years. (With PTI inputs) BRUNDIDGEA pedestrian was killed in a Sunday evening accident near here on U.S. 231. A single-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian occurred around 9:55 p.m. about a mile south of Brundidge in Pike County, according to a news release from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Christy L. Mayhew, 31, of Brundidge was killed when she was struck by a 2019 Dodge Ram driven by Levi A. Gerrish, 40, of Elkhart, Indiana. Mayhew was pronounced dead on the scene, according to the news release. No other information was available, and troopers with the ALEAs Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate. New Delhi: The Centre has accorded 'Z' category armed security cover of Delhi Police to the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, sources said on Monday. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued the order to the Delhi Police days after Chauhan took charge as India`s new Chief of Defence Staff, more than nine months after the death of General Bipin Rawat, the country`s first CDS. Centre has provided 'Z' category armed security cover of Delhi Police to the newly elected Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan: Sources (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/IdysGLcehD ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2022 General Chauhan took charge as India`s second CDS last Friday. Nearly 33 armed Delhi Police personnel will be guarding Chauhan at his residence as well as during travel. The CDS is also the Principal Military Advisor to the Defence Minister on all tri-Service matters as well as head of the Department of Military Affairs as Secretary. He is also the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). While taking charge, General Chauhan had said he was proud to be assuming the responsibility of the highest rank in the Indian armed forces. For the first time, a three-star officer has been brought back from retirement to hold a four-star rank. Born on May 18, 1961, General Chauhan was commissioned into the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1981. The three chiefs, General Manoj Pande, Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari and Admiral R Hari Kumar, were commissioned into their respective services later. In a career spanning nearly 40 years, General Chauhan held several command, staff and instrumental appointments and had extensive experience in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast India. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. General Chauhan has the mandate to implement the ambitious theaterisation plan that seeks to ensure tri-services synergy and prepare the military for future security challenges by rolling out integrated military commands. Later, as Lt General, he commanded a corps in the North East and subsequently went to become the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command from September 2019 and held the charge until his retirement from the service in May 2021. In addition to these command appointments, the officer also tenanted important staff appointments, including the charge of the Director General of Military Operations. Earlier, the officer had also served on a United Nations mission to Angola. He superannuated from the Indian Army on 31 May 2021. Even after his retirement from the Army, he continued to contribute to national security and strategic matters. The CDS is the most senior uniformed officer in rank, the first among equals -- the only four-star officers in the country are the CDS, the chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. (With Agency Inputs) New Delhi: Ahead of its presidential poll, the Congress on Monday issued a set of guidelines for the election, debarring party office-bearers from campaigning for candidates. Those who wish to support any candidate will have to first resign from their organisational post, stated the guidelines issued by the Congress' central election authority. Mallikarjun Kharge and Shashi Tharoor are contesting the Congress president election in their personal capacity, the party said, noting that the "delegates are free to elect any one of them, as per their choice, through ballot paper". What are the Congress guidelines for presidential poll? AICC general secretaries/In-charges, secretaries, joint secretaries, Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) presidents, Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leaders, heads of frontal organisations, chiefs of departments, cells and all official spokespersons "shall not campaign for or against contesting candidates", it said. "If they wish to support any candidate, they must first resign from their organisational post, after that they participate in the campaign process," it said. The polling for the Congress presidential election will be held on October 17. The counting of votes will be taken up on October 19 and the results will be declared the same day. More than 9,000 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates will vote in the poll. The Congress asked all PCC presidents to extend courtesy to the candidates during their visits to the respective states. The PCC presidents will provide and arrange a meeting hall, chairs and other public announcement equipment for the candidate who wishes to hold the meeting of PCC delegates, it said. "However, no such meeting can be called by the PCC president in their personal capacity," it warned. Organising the meeting is the task of the proposer or the supporters of the contesting candidates, it pointed out. During the election, Congress said, no candidate can use vehicles for bringing voters nor resort to any "undesired pamphleteering" or any other kind of publication propaganda. "Controverters of these procedures shall render the candidatures election invalid and make them liable for disciplinary action," the party warned. It said utmost care must be taken to ensure that there is no mala-fide campaign against any candidate. "The same would bring disgrace to the party. The sensitivity of the election process must be upheld at any cost," it cautioned. In a tweet, Tharoor said he welcomes the announcement by the party's chief election authority on the organisation's presidential election. In another tweet, he said he has resigned as the chief of Professionals' Congress. "For those asking: I have already submitted my letter of resignation as head of @ProfCong to the Congress President last month," he said. A controversy has erupted after religious organisation All India Hindu Mahasabha allegedly depicted Mahatma Gandhi in an `asura` idol at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata`s Ruby by-pass. The idol of asura resembling Mahatma Gandhi was installed at the pandal, following which a complaint with the Kolkata Police to was filed. Later, changes were made to the idol of asura following the intervention of the Kolkata Police. In today's DNA, Zee News' Rohit Ranjan makes an analysis of the "hate" and "polarisation" that led to such a shameful incident in Kolkata. Outraged over the installation of the idol at southwest Kolkata, people on social media sought immediate arrest of Hindu Mahasabha leaders who organised the Durga puja. Organisers Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha, however, claimed that it was a "coincidence" that the Mahishasur idol, which had a bald head and was dressed in a white dhoti and round glasses, bore resemblance to Gandhi, but social media was not convinced. "Immediately arrest the officials of Hindu Mahasabha for depicting Mahatma Gandhi as asura in a Durga Puja at Kolkata," tweeted one Atanu Chakravarty, tagging Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Following the incident, Congress leader Bagchi filed a complaint with the Kolkata Police alleging that the move by the Hindu Mahasabha was an act of "sedition" and "detrimental to national integrity". He also asked the police to stop the puja at the said location immediately."I have lodged a complaint against Chandrachur Goswami and the other functionaries of the state unit, because the idol of asura has been depicted as Mahatma Gandhi who is the father of the nation. This act determines sedition and is completely detrimental to national integrity. So a complaint has been lodged at the police station to file a zero FIR and take the necessary steps. It has also been stated in the complaint that the puja needs to be immediately stopped. I have filed the complaint after a discussion with state Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury," he said in a video.Earlier, Congress condemned the incident and demanded the "strictest" action against the organisers of the puja. "All India Hindu Mahasabha in Kolkata has wrongly depicted Mahatma Gandhi in Durga Puja pandal. This is a crime we strongly condemn this. Strictest action should be taken against the organisers. We are not tweeting that picture. There is no place for this picture, this thinking in any corner of the world," Congress tweeted. New Delhi: A drunk man has been booked for calling up the police control room claiming a "plot" to kill Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at a hotel in Lonavala in Pune district, an official said on Sunday (October 2, 2022). According to the investigation, the drunk man, Avinash Waghmare, made the call on Saturday to "teach a lesson" to the owner of the hotel for overcharging him for a bottle of water. Waghmare, who was travelling from Ghatkopar in Mumbai to Sangli in a private bus, allegedly made the call on Saturday to the control room claiming a plan was being hatched in the Lonavala hotel to kill the chief minister, the official said. He later admitted that he was drunk when he made the call to get the police on the trail of the hotelier with whom he had quarreled for being overcharged for a bottle of water, the official stated. Pune (Rural) Superintendent of Police Abhinav Deshmukh said that the man asked the police to visit the hotel as soon as possible and boarded the bus and left for his destination. "We have filed a non-cognizable case against Waghmare under Indian Penal Code section 177 (knowingly furnishing false information to a public servant)," Deshmukh said. The development comes a day after the State Intelligence Department (SID) received a specific input about the threat to the life of Shinde, State Intelligence Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre had said. "After specific information, we have taken necessary action and have increased the security of the chief minister," Dumbre told news agency PTI. Additional security has been provided to the CM, who enjoys a Z Plus category security cover, he said, adding that security has also been stepped up at Shinde's private residence in Thane and the official residence 'Varsha' in Mumbai. No one can stop me from being among people: Eknath Shinde on receiving death threats Meanwhile, Eknath Shinde on Sunday said that he is a man of masses and that no one can stop him from being among people. "Even when I was not the chief minister, I had received threats from Naxalites, anti-national elements. I am a man of masses and no one can stop me from being among people," he said. "No one should try to do any such thing," Shinde, who became the chief minister on June 30 this year after his rebellion with Shiv Sena MLAs led to the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government, said. Meanwhile, he is scheduled to address his first Dussehra rally at MMRDA grounds in Mumbai on October 5. (With agency inputs) Kolkata: On the occasion of Durga Puja, 11-foot Goddess Durga`s idol weighing one metric ton will be installed at the mandap of Beniatola Sarbojanin Durga Puja community in North Kolkata. Sovabazar Beniatola Sarbojanin Durgotsav community which turned 78, claimed that the `ashtadhatu` idol weighing over 1,000 kg at Sovabazar Beniatola puja is the heaviest idol so far. More than 25 artisans have worked day and night to make the pandal and the idol has been built at the cost of around Rs 35 lakh. The celebrated idol-crafter Mintu Pal was in charge of the entire project. These days preparations for Durga Puja are in full swing in West Bengal. Durga Puja of Kolkata is world famous. Every year Kolkata brings new puja themes which are unique and innovative in their own way. From pandals to Durga idols, devotees get to see various themed Durga puja in KolkataBiswajit Dawn Puja Committee Joint Secretary said, "We are calling Kolkata`s heritage puja with traditional aspects, the theme of this year is called "adir ahwan". The Theme of this year is called "ADIR AHWAN". Reflecting on old `Bonediyana` with new generation puja and also giving respect, love, happiness, and fillings recalling is "ADIR AHWAN" idol artist Mintu Paul, Prafulla Rana, Pandal Artist Sudipto Kundu Chowdhury."Over the years, Durga Puja has become an inseparable part of Indian culture with innumerable people celebrating this festival in their own unique way while pertaining to tradition. Hindu mythology holds that the Goddess comes to her earthly abode at this time to bless her devotees. For the Bengali community, Durga Puja is the biggest festival. This year Maha Shashti falls on October 1 and Vijaya Dashami on October 5. Today marks the seventh day of Navratri and devotees across the country will worship Goddess Kaalratri, the seventh incarnation of Maa Durga. According to Hindu mythology, the seventh day of Navratri is dedicated to Kaalratri, considered the fiercest form of Goddess Durga, and is described as the destroyer of all evil and negative energies. During the nine-day Navratri festival, devotees worship Maa Durga`s nine incarnations in order to obtain her blessings. There is a goddess manifestation linked with each day of Navratri. During these nine days, people maintain ritualistic fasts, recite shlokas dedicated to each goddess, wear new clothing, offer bhog, and clean their homes. In their prayers, they ask the goddess for her favour in order to have prosperous, joyous, and fulfilled lives. Over the next nine days, devotees offer their prayers to Goddess Durga and observe fasts. The festival of Navratri honours the defeat of the demonic Mahishasura and the triumph of good over evil. The 10th day of Sharad Navratri is celebrated as Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami. This year, Navratri started on September 26 and will conclude on October 5. Nagpur: The BJP's Maharashtra unit president Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday said Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray should stop taking jibes at others or else the few party members standing by him will also leave the fold. Talking to reporters at Nagpur airport, Bawankule said people were showing confidence in the Eknath Shinde-Devendra Fadnavis government who are working 18 hours a day for people of the state. "By 2024, several good workers from other parties will join the BJP. The Congress and NCP will be in for big shocks. If Uddhav Thackerayji does not stop taking jibes at others and instead thinks about Maharashtra's development, then the few workers left with him will also leave. He will only have 'hum do hamare do' and there will be no one else with him," the BJP leader said. Reacting to Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole's statement terming Devendra Fadnavis as Spider-Man for his appointment as the guardian minister of six districts, Bawankule said the deputy chief minister can not only manage six but even eight districts. "He (Patole) does not know about Fadnavis' ability, which the whole of Maharashtra has seen from 2014-2019. He (Fadnavis) does have any private businesses, factories, societies, or banks. He works 18 hours a day for the public and a person who works 18 hours for people can accept any challenge," Bawankule said. New Delhi: Union Minister Pashupati Paras has asked Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to reconsider his decision to be with the Mahagathbandhan after Sudhakar Singh resigned as the agriculture minister over alleged injustice to the state`s farmers. On Sunday, Sudhakar Singh became the second Bihar minister in about a month to tender their resignation. Earlier, Kartikeya Singh had resigned as a minister over an alleged kidnapping case. "In my opinion, it was not a good day when Nitish Kumar was sworn in with Mahagathbandhan. Within 48 hours of swearing in, the law minister who was supposed to be the custodian of law was himself in the grip of law. He had to resign ultimately," Paras told ANI Sunday, adding "There is an unfortunate situation in Bihar. Nitish Kumar should reconsider his alliance with the Mahagathbandhan." Paras, the Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, called the Mahagathbandhan a "mismatched" alliance. "This is a mismatched alliance between RJD and JD(U). It is said that the chief minister will be changed after two months. When this happens, it would become very difficult to control the officers and criminals. Bihar is in a deplorable condition," he said. Also read: Sudhakar Singh resigns as Bihar agriculture minister over 'injustice' to farmers; BJP reacts Asking the Bihar CM to strengthen the law-and-order situation, he said that crime has increased in the state after the Mahagathbandhan came to power. "There is no law and order in Bihar. Robbery and murder incidents are taking place. Nitish Kumar should improve the situation in the state and work in this direction," he said. According to the officials in the Bihar Chief Minister`s Office, after Sudhakar Singh, the agriculture ministry was given to Tourism Minister Kumar Sarvjeet. At the same time, Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav would hold the additional charge of the tourism ministry. Bihar Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president and Sudhakar Singh`s father, Jagdanand Singh said that Sudhakar Singh resigned over "injustice" to the farmers of the state. Earlier, taking a dig at the Mahagathbandhan over Sudhakar Singh`s resignation, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi said that the "second wicket" of the grand alliance has fallen within months. He said Sudhakar Singh had openly called Nitish Kumar`s agriculture roadmap a failure. Kartikeya Singh, who was moved from the Ministry of Law, has an outstanding arrest warrant against him in a kidnapping case for which he was granted interim protection till September 1 by a Danapur court. Stirring a controversy last month, Sudhakar Singh told a gathering in his constituency that his department was infested with "thieves" and he felt like the "chief of theft". Mumbai (Maharashtra): Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde clarified that his faction of the Shiv Sena will not challenge the Bombay High Court`s ruling in the Supreme Court for allowing the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction to hold a Dussehra rally here at Shivaji Park on October 5. The Maharashtra CM made it clear in Mumbai on Sunday while talking to reporters. CM Eknath Shinde said, "We respect the Bombay High Court`s decision and will not challenge it in Supreme Court." The Bombay HC on September 23, allowed the Thackeray faction to hold the Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park. Shiv Sena has been holding the Dussehra rally every year since 1966. The event is significant this year as Sena is now split up into two factions and the rally could not take place in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Earlier in August, Uddhav Thackeray took a dig at Shinde, stating the party is not sure whether it will get permission for the event, adding that whatever happens, he will hold a Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park. Addressing his party workers, Uddhav had said, "Shiv Sena`s Dussehra rally will be held at Shivaji Park in Mumbai. Shiv Sainiks from all over the state will reach for this rally. We do not know these technical things whether the government will give permission or not. We will hold the rally. It doesn`t matter to us whether others will hold rallies or not. Shiv Sena has grown not by traitors but by the blood of Shiv Sainiks." The tussle between the Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led faction and former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led faction was in full pace for weeks and the decision came only after all-out brawls came to the fore. The Shinde-led faction had also sought permission to hold the rally at the same venue on the same day (October 5), and opposed the Thackeray group's petition in the high court. Shiv Sena leader Anil Parab confirmed the development and said that the HC permission was given for a duration of five days starting October 2. The BMC had refused to give permission to the two factions to hold the rally, based on the local police`s report which reportedly said that the event might cause law and order problems in the area. We would have got Shivaji Park ground for Dussehra rally: CM Shinde Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday said that his faction of the Shiv Sena would have got the Shivaji Park ground in central Mumbai as the venue for its Dussehra rally had he intervened in the matter as CM. When asked about it, Shinde told reporters that the leaders and workers of his party had demanded Shivaji Park for the rally, but how they honour the high court's order. The Chief Minister said, "Had I intervened as chief minister, we would have got Shivaji Park for the rally. But as CM, it is my duty to ensure peace and harmony. So we settled for the MMRDA ground at the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC)." For the Thackeray faction, the high court's decision in its favour has a symbolic value as Shivaji Park is associated with the Sena since its birth, and his group is locked in a tussle with the rebel group led by CM Shinde to establish itself as the "real' Shiv Sena. Threats to Maha CM Shinde from unknown caller Eknath Shinde`s security cover was tightened after specific inputs indicated threats to his life through a mystery phone call on Sunday. The Home Department, handled by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has also ordered a probe in an effort to trace the call and the unknown caller. The security at Shinde`s official residence `Varsha`, at Malabar Hill, and his private home in Thane city was beefed up with additional forces deployed. Officials told IANS that the State Intelligence Department (SID) monitored the inputs about the threats to Shinde, who has a Z-category security cover. Shinde, who leads the rebel Shiv Sena faction which toppled the Maha Vikas Aghadi govt in June, had been the target of similar threats from Maoists and anti-national elements earlier when he was a minister in the previous government. Though officials are tightlipped, there`s speculation that the latest threats may be linked to the Centre`s decision to ban the PFI. (With PTI/IANS Inputs) New Delhi/Hyderabad: Kerala Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday coined reinvent Congress to garner support for his candidacy for the post of party chief while reiterating that he has no ideological differences with party veteran Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also running for the top job. "Let me make it clear that I agree with @kharge Ji that all of us in @incIndia wish to take on the BJP rather than each other. There is no ideological difference between us. The choice for our voting colleagues Oct 17 is only on how to do it most effectively," Tharoor said in a tweet. Let me make clear that I agree with @kharge ji that all of us in @incIndia wish to take on theBJP rather than each other. There is no ideological difference between us. The choice for our voting colleagues Oct17 is only on how to do it most effectively.#ThinkTomorrowThinkTharoor Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) October 3, 2022 The remarks from Thiruvananthapuram Congress MP came a day after Kharge said he conveyed to Tharoor that a consensus candidate would be better, but the Lok Sabha MP insisted on a contest for the "sake of democracy". Tharoor, who is in Hyderabad in connection with his campaign for Congress presidential poll, said he has "enormous" respect for his rival Mallikarjun Kharge. "I believe we need a reinvented, reimagined Congress to take on the BJP. That's why I have continued with my candidacy in this election," he told reporters in Hyderabad. "We want the Congress party to prevail once again in our country. As far as I am concerned, the only real difference in this election is about how we go about the challenges facing the Congress party in overcoming the BJP and its formidable electoral machine," he said. The contest is a "discussion within the family" and there is no quarrel, he said. Kharge has great experience, ability and knowledge, he said. "I bring a different approach and I put that before the voters to see what they want. But, I do want to stress. We are all in this together." Irrespective of the person who emerges victorious, it would be the biggest victory for the Congress party. Tharoor said he would not withdraw from the contest. His campaign is getting a good response and he would visit cities including Chennai and Mumbai as well, he said. Tharoor said he would reach out to the voting delegates across the country once their phone numbers are available on Wednesday. The polling for the Congress presidential election is scheduled to be held on October 17. The counting of votes would be taken up on October 19 and the results are expected the same day. More than 9,000 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates form the electorate. New Delhi: On the first anniversary of Lakhimpur Kheri violence, the Congress on Monday attacked the Modi government over the continuation of Ajay Misra 'Teni' as a minister as it cited the alleged involvement of his son in mowing down of farmers protesting against the three farm laws that have now been repealed. "Nothing can be more insulting that the farmers agitating against the black laws were deliberately killed while the culprit remains a member of the Union council of ministers," Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh told reporters. There was clear evidence that the minister's son was involved in the killing, he alleged. Misra's son Ashish Misra was arrested in the case after four farmers were crushed under the wheels of a convoy of cars and four others, including two BJP workers, were killed in apparently retaliatory violence. Addressing a press conference, Ramesh also hailed Rahul Gandhi's address to people in Karnataka while heavy rains drenched him as a "defining" moment during the Congress' ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra. It was a historic day and shows people's support to the yatra, he said. The more Gandhi and people are praised for this, the less it will be, he claimed. Congress delegates who are part of the foot march may vote in the election for the party president through postal ballots, he said, adding there is also a possibility that they can come down to Bengaluru to vote on October 17. The yatra will be passing through Karnataka around that time. Ramesh claimed that popular support to the yatra has rattled the BJP and slammed the Enforcement Directorate's summons to Karnataka Congress president D K Shivakumar in the National Herald case as continuation of the government's "vendetta politics". Every effort will be made to derail the yatra but the Congress will continue with its efforts, he said. A BJP MP's alleged suggestion that naxals may be supporting the yatra is also one such attempt, the Congress leader said replying to a question and trashed the charge as "bogus". Citing people's support to the yatra in the BJP-ruled Karnataka, he said people want change and see the Congress as a vehicle for this. It was said that the Congress will have difficulty in drawing support in the state but one cannot see it while it is the BJP which is in difficulty now, Ramesh claimed. Karnataka is slated to go to assembly polls in the first half of the next year. The Congress also launched an app on the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Anyone can join the march by registering through it, he said. Congress president Sonia Gandhi will join the yatra in Mandya on October 6, he said. The Congress president arrived in Mysuru on Monday afternoon for the party's ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra in Karnataka. Rahul Gandhi may address a press conference on October 7, he added, saying the former party chief has currently no plan to come to the national capital. October 4 and 5 will be rest days for the yatra due to Dussehra celebrations, Ramesh said. The Congress also reiterated its support to the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, which had spearheaded the farmers' agitation against three farm laws, especially its demand for a legal guarantee to the minimum support price for farm produce. Bowing to the protests, the government had scrapped the laws. He accused the government of working to reduce public intervention in agriculture sector to allow more space for private players. OZARKPreserving the legacy of the Dale County settlers who founded Claybank Church in 1829, Mary Jane Collins strives to annually re-create a living history of the church now known as First Ozark United Methodist Church. For more than two decades, Collins and her husband, retired Army Lt. Col. Ray Collins, have worked each year with the next generation to put on a play she wrote, adapted from the late Judge Val McGees written history of Ozark Claybank Memories. The play has become the unofficial finale of the Annual Claybank Jamboree held in Ozark the day before. State Rep. Steve Clouse and Ozark Mayor Mark Blankenship called a visibly surprised Mary Jane Collins to the front of the standing-room only chapel as Sundays production of Claybank: The History Served, the Legacy Continued, came to an end. Clouse presented her with a resolution from the Alabama State House of Representatives commending her community service. Blankenship presented her with a gold key to the city. Collins is an active member of First Ozark United Methodist Church and is involved in the music ministry, playing piano at worship services. Her good deeds are so well known in the community that she was recognized in 2016 by the Fort Rucker Community Spouses Club for dedicated volunteer service, Clouse said. Blankenship commended Collins for her selfless and dedicated community service, representing the city throughout the area. One thing I have noticed as I travel between Fort Rucker and Ozark is that mayors may come and go and military members may come and go but the Collinses are constants in this community, he said. Mary Jane Collins is heartily commended for her dedication to her community and preservation of the history of Dale County with our utmost gratitude, Clouse said. This resolution is offered to her in highest regard for her service to her community and dedication to the preservation of the history of Dale County, Alabama. Because of her efforts, the early Dale County history will be known for generations to come, Clouse said. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate AIIMS, Bilaspur, and participate in the famous Kullu Dussehra celebrations during his visit to Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday. He will inaugurate and lay foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 3,650 crore and also address a public meeting in the poll-bound state, an official statement said. It said Modi's vision and commitment to strengthening health services across the country is being showcased again with the inauguration of AIIMS, Bilaspur. Modi will also witness the Rath Yatra at the International Kullu Dussehra, state CM Jai Ram Thakur told media on Monday. He said that Modi's consent to be a witness to the Rath Yatra shows his affection and connect with Himachal and its people. Thakur on Monday took stock of the preparations at Rath Maidan in Dhalpur in Kullu district which will be visited by the PM. Modi had laid the newly-built hospital's foundation stone in October 2017 and it has been established under the Centre's Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana, the statement said. AIIMS, Bilaspur, constructed at a cost of more than Rs 1,470 crore, is a state-of-the-art hospital with 18 specialty and 17 super-specialty departments, 18 modular operation theatres and 750 beds, including 64 ICU beds. Spread over 247 acres, the hospital is equipped with 24-hour emergency and dialysis facilities, modern diagnostic machines such as ultrasonography, CT scan and MRI among others. It also has a Jan Aushadhi Kendra and a 30-bed AYUSH block. The hospital has also set up a Centre for Digital Health to provide health services in tribal and inaccessible areas of the state, it said. Also, specialist health services will be provided by the hospital through health camps in the inaccessible tribal and high Himalayan regions such as Kaza, Saluni, and Keylong. The hospital will admit 100 students for MBBS and 60 students for nursing courses every year, it added. Among other development projects, the prime minister will lay the foundation stone for a 31-km-long project for four laning of NH-105 from Pinjore to Nalagarh, worth over Rs 1,690 crore. Modi will also lay the foundation stone for Medical Device Park at Nalagarh, which will be built at a cost of around Rs 350 crore. Memorandums of Understanding of more than Rs 800 crore have already been signed for setting up industries in this park, it said, adding the project will significantly enhance employment opportunities in the region. Noting that the International Kullu Dussehra Festival will be celebrated from October 5 to 11 at Dhalpur Ground in Kullu, the statement said the event is unique in the sense that it is the congregation of worshippers of more than 300 deities of the valley. It will be the first-time ever that the prime minister will participate in the celebrations, it said. Jaipur: Days after a crisis in Rajasthan Congress, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday said politics is all about "multiplication and division", and what is seen is seldom true and what is true is not seen. The chief minister also took a jibe at the media, saying some organisations run news based on their perspective, which does not serve any purpose and also dents their credibility. "People have an extraordinary common sense and they understand everything," he told reporters. "Politics is done by multiplication and division. In politics, sometimes, what is seen is not true and what is true is not seen," he said at a press conference on 'Invest Rajasthan', which will be held on October 7 and 8. The political crisis in the state unfolded with the grand old party's move to hold a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting at the chief minister's residence on September 25. This meeting was seen as an exercise to change the chief minister prior to the election to choose the party president for which Gehlot was the front runner. The party had sent AICC General Secretary in-charge for Rajasthan Ajay Maken and the then leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, who is now contesting the poll, as observers to hold the CLP meeting. However, hours before the meeting, MLAs loyal to Gehlot held a parallel meeting at Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shanti Dhariwal's residence against what they believed was a get-together to make Sachin Pilot the new chief minister. The MLAs skipped the CLP meeting and submitted their resignation to Speaker CP Joshi at his house. They demanded that the party choose someone from the 102 MLAs who supported Gehlot during the political crisis in July 2020 as his replacement if he were to leave the post and become the party president. The 2020 rebellion against Gehlot was led by Pilot, then the deputy chief minister, with 18 MLAs. The CLP meeting did not take place. Four days later, Gehlot met party president Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi and apologised to her for not being able to get a one-line resolution passed in the meeting. He took moral responsibility for the crisis and announced that he will not contest the presidential election. After his return from Delhi, Gehlot has however indicated through his style of functioning that he will continue as the chief minister, although an official decision is awaited. Mysuru: Hundreds of people raised pro-Congress slogans as party leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday addressed them amid heavy rains and asserted that nothing can "stop us to unite the country" through the ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra. Soon after Gandhi arrived at the venue for the public meeting on the outskirts of Mysuru, a sudden burst of rain greeted him and the gathering. As the Wayanad MP chose to continue his speech, the crowds cheered for him, even as many were seen holding up chairs to ward off the torrential rain. "This journey will continue from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and will not stop. It is raining, but the showers have not stopped this yatra. Heat, storm, cold can't stop this yatra. "This river-like journey will persist and in this river, you will not find any trace of hate or violence. There will only be love and brotherhood as this is India's history and DNA," Gandhi told the gathering. Moments after the Mysuru rally, Congress leaders took to Twitter to laud Rahul Gandhi's rain-soaked moment as a sign of his resilience. Twitteratti drew parallels between Gandhi's address and a similar speech NCP supremo Sharad Pawar delivered amid incessant rains during the Maharashtra elections in 2019. Earlier on Sunday, Gandhi walked for over 10 kilometres from Badanavalu to Mysuru and was welcomed by a beeline of bystanders on both sides of the road. The police were seen struggling to manage the crowd and maintain order amid Congress supporters beating drums in their leader's welcome. While roadsides were dotted with young people eager to catch a glimpse of the Congress leader, women were seen on the terrace of their houses to watch Gandhi. At the venue of the public meeting in Mysuru later, the Congress leader said nothing can deter the Bharat Jodo Yatra which was aimed at "stopping hatred and violence spread by the BJP-RSS". Accompanied by huge crowd of supporters, Shri @RahulGandhi & all the Padyatris to resume #BharatJodoYatra from Hardinge Circle, Mysuru. pic.twitter.com/6IJZEzbLg5 October 3, 2022 On a day the Enforcement Directorate issued summons to Karnataka Congress president DK Shiva Kumar for appearance on October 7 in the National Herald case, Gandhi told the Mysuru gathering, "No matter how much hate and violence the BJP spreads, this yatra will achieve its goal and will unite people." The former Congress president also attacked the BJP government in Karnataka over graft charges, accusing Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai of crossing all limits of corruption. "This 40 per cent (commission) government is taking bribes even from BJP people who are unable to pay up, and despite contractor association writing to the prime minister, no action has been taken," he said. Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra is aimed at 'uniting India; to come together and strengthen our nation'. The Yatra began on September 7 from Kanyakumari and will pass through 12 states, culminating in Jammu and Kashmir spanning a distance of nearly 3,500 km over the course of about 150 days. It has so far covered 624 kms in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and is currently in Karnataka. New Delhi: The first series of Made-in-India Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) will be inducted into the Indian Air Force inventory on Monday at a ceremony in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Defence minister Rajnath Singh will attend the induction ceremony which he called a big boost to IAFs combat prowess. I would be in Jodhpur, Rajasthan tomorrow, 3rd October, to attend the Induction ceremony of the first indigenously developed Light Comat Helicopters (LCH). The induction of these helicopters will be a big boost to the IAFs combat prowess. Looking forward to it. pic.twitter.com/L3nTfkJx5A Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 2, 2022 What are the salient features of the new choppers? These indigenous choppers will be able to partake in aerial combat with slow-moving aircrafts, drones and armoured columns during conflicts. Singh has played crucial role in buying indigenous platforms for forces The induction ceremony will be led by Rajnath Singh who has played a crucial role in progressing cases for buying indigenous platforms for forces. He was also present in the Cabinet Committee on Security which cleared the purchase of 15 of these LCHs for the air force and the army. Light Combat Helicopter Limited Series Production (LSP) is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured state-of-the-art modern combat helicopter containing approx. 45 pc indigenous content by value which will progressively increase to more than 55 pc for SP Version. "This helicopter is equipped with requisite agility, manoeuvrability, extended range, high altitude performance and around-the-clock, all-weather combat capability to perform roles of Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of Enemy Air Defence (DEAD), Counter Insurgency (CI) operations, against slow-moving aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), high altitude bunker busting operations, Counter Insurgency operations in jungle and urban environments and support to ground forces and would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of Indian Air Force and Indian Army," said the Ministry of Defence. (With ANI inputs) New Delhi: Congress president Sonia Gandhi arrived in Mysore on Monday (October 3, 2022) afternoon for the party's ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra in Karnataka. The Congress leader will participate in the Yatra on Thursday morning when it resumes after a two-day break. It will be after a long time that Sonia Gandhi will participate in the party's public event where a large number of Congress workers are participating. She had not campaigned for the party during elections in the recent past due to health reasons. Meanwhile, her son, Rahul Gandhi will continue the Karnataka leg of the padayatra from Srirangapatna at 2:30 pm and will end the padayatra near Pandupur in the evening. On October 4 and 5, the padayatra is to remain suspended on the occasion of Ayudhapuja and Dasara. On October 6, Congress will hold a campaign at Adichuchanagiri Mutt. 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' started from R-Gate Circle, Mysore this morning and entered Mandya district by 9 am. Along with Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah, DK Shivakumar, Venugopal, Surjewala and many other Congress leaders joined the yatra. The Bharat Jodo Yatra entered the 26th day of its almost five month journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi will undertake the entire 3,570 km Yatra. (With agency inputs) Patna: Bihar Agriculture Minister Sudhakar Singh, an RJD leader whose induction into the Nitish Kumar ministry less than two months ago was mired in controversy and who often embarrassed the government by his outspokenness, on Sunday resigned from the state cabinet. Singh's resignation was "accepted and forwarded to Governor Phagu Chauhan", according to a statement issued by the chief minister's office. His portfolio was allocated to fellow RJD MLA Kumar Sarvajeet, who was till now the minister for tourism. Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav has been given the additional charge of tourism, the statement said. Singh, a first-term MLA from Ramgarh in Kaimur district, has been in his constituency for the past two days and according RJD sources he made the move after a telephone call from Tejashwi Yadav the previous night. Yadav is said to have conveyed his displeasure over Singh's behavior which was deemed to be in violation of the principle of ?collective responsibility? of the cabinet. Singh sent his resignation after it. Known to be of volatile temperament, Singh did not turn up in Patna but dispatched his resignation letter through a personal staff who handed it over to his father Jagadanand Singh, the RJD state unit chief. Jagdanand Singh handed over the resignation letter to Yadav. Later, the septuagenarian RJD leader issued a statement to the media claiming that his son was fighting for the cause of farmers like Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, whose birth anniversaries fell on the day. "However, the decision to tender the resignation was taken because we did not want the rift to widen," said Jagdanand Singh, whose loyalty towards Yadav and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad has earned him a second consecutive term as the state party chief. The BJP, which has been licking its wounds since Kumar's exit from the NDA in August stripped it of power in the state, claimed that the development indicated that the seven-party ruling 'Mahagathbandhan' has turned "wobbly". "The government has not completed two months and its second wicket has fallen. At this rate, it is anybody's guess how long this coalition is going to last?, said senior BJP leader and former deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi. , " " Sushil Kumar Modi (@SushilModi) October 2, 2022 The allusion was to Singh's resignation which came about a month after another RJD minister Kartik Kumar put in his papers. Kartik Kumar had resigned in protest against being divested of the law portfolio. His alleged involvement in a kidnapping case and allocation of the key department despite such a record had triggered a huge controversy in the state. Incidentally, Singh's induction had also been a matter of controversy as BJP had raised hell over an old case relating to default on payment by a rice mill he owned. Interestingly, Singh had begun his political career with BJP and had unsuccessfully contested the 2010 assembly polls on the party's ticket. Soon after becoming the agriculture minister, Singh, who is an alumnus of the prestigious Kirori Mal College, Delhi, set about an image-building exercise, refusing to accept the ministerial bungalow but ended up making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Last month, he told a gathering in his constituency that his department was infested with "thieves" and as its head, he felt like a "choron kaa sardaar" who worked under bigger thieves. #WATCH | There is not a single wing of our (agriculture) dept that does not commit acts of theft. As I am the in-charge of the department, I become their Sardar (chief)...There are many more people above me: Bihar Agriculture Min S Singh, in Kaimur (12.09) (Source: Viral video) pic.twitter.com/p6mNVRgr60 ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2022 This was said to have led to a showdown between the minister and the chief minister at a meeting of the cabinet. Recently, Singh was again in news for having told a public meeting that corrupt officials deserved to be "beaten with shoes". He had also trashed the policies that have been in place in Bihar for long, questioning the abolition of the Agricultural Produce Market Committee Act and the three ?agriculture road maps? which Kumar has brought out during his tenure. New Delhi: Firozabad police apprehended on Sunday (October 2) a fake inspector who was making illegal recovery and extorting people and vehicle owners. Firozabad police on its Twitter handle informed that the man was arrested by the Tundala police station team and recovered fake id proofs including a fake Aadhar Card and a Police Inspector id card. A video of the man faking to be a police inspector has gone viral on social media where he is seen saying that he was pretending to be an inspector to save toll taxes. In the video a man is heard asking the imposter when he was recruited as Inspector he replied that he was not recruited and is faking to be an inspector so that he doesn't have to pay toll taxes. Fake Inspector Arrested by Firozabad Police The fake inspector Mukesh Yadav is a resident of Ghaziabad who used to illegally extort money from vehicle owners. He also used to threaten the owners to seize their vehicles. ALSO WATCH- 'Utha Le Re Baba': Netizens react after butter chicken icecream goes viral New Delhi: Gone are the days when you have to stand in line for an hour at the banks for transactions. Now United Payment Interface (UPI), Net banking, and mobile wallets have reduced the difficulties related to banking transactions to a great extent. Along with the growing acceptance, risks have also grown. Many times, while transferring, amounts are transferred into the wrong account. Sometimes this happens in banking fraud as well. In this case, you can get the amount back. Let us have a look at the process. RBI new guidelines As per the new guidelines of RBI, it is the responsibility of the bank to refund your money within 48 hours. If the bank does not help in getting the money back, the customer can complain at bankingombudsman.rbi.org.in. You can give a complaint letter to the bank for the wrong transactions. You have to mention the account number, the name of the account holder, transaction reference number, date of transaction, amount and IFSC code, and the account number in which the transaction has been done unintentionally. Legal process There is also a legal way to get your money back. If the person in whose account money has been transferred by mistake, refuses to return it, a case can also be filed against him. However, in the case of a non-refund of money, this right is considered a violation of the Reserve Bank rules. As per the guidelines of the Reserve Bank of India, it is the responsibility of the linker to give correct information about the beneficiary's account. If for any reason, the linker makes a mistake, the bank is not considered responsible for it. New Delhi: As the festive season is approaching rapidly, Flipkart has launched the Big Dussehra Sale. The sale will begin on October 5 and run through October 8. Discounts on a variety of goods, including smartphones, laptops, earphones, smartwatches, and electrical home appliances, will be available during the four-day event. The e-tailer and HDFC Bank have teamed up to give a 10 percent immediate discount on purchases made using HDFC Bank credit cards and EMI transactions during the event. As usual, customers of Flipkart Plus will be able to shop the deal 24 hours earlier. It indicates that the Big Dussehra Sale on Flipkart will start on October 3 for Plus members. (Also Read: Samsung Diwali offers: Get a charger of Rs 5999 for Rs 500, check out THESE other deals) Although not all of the deals have been made public yet, Flipkart has built a microsite for the upcoming sale. Customers will receive discounts on smartphones from Apple, Samsung, Realme, Vivo, Oppo, and other manufacturers, according to the sale webpage. The main high point of the Big Billion Days was the discount on the iPhone 13. (Also Read: It's anticipated that during the sale, the smartphone would once again be offered for one of its lowest prices. The phone was initially selling for less than Rs 50,000 during the Big Billion Days Sale. Similar promotions will be available for the Samsung Galaxy F23 5G, Nothing Phone 1, and Google Pixel 6a, to mention a few. Electronics will be discounted up to 80 percent during the upcoming sale. For instance, an HP i3 with up to 512GB of storage will cost Rs 35,990. Similar to that, HP cameras will be priced at 599 dollars as a starting point. On the other hand, Ambrane power banks start at 499 dollars. During the upcoming sale, you can also buy computer accessories like keyboards, mouse pads, touchpads, and others. On Flipkart, power banks will be discounted by up to 75% during the sale. According to the sale webpage, there will be up to 80 percent savings on styling and medical equipment. A $5,000 donation from the Dothan Area Chamber Foundation will go toward relocating the library branch in Ashford. The Dothan Houston County Library System (DHCLS) has launched the Ashford Library capital campaign to raise money to renovate the former Midsouth Bank IT Data Center into a fully functional library in the heart of downtown Ashford. We are very proud to help the Dothan Houston County Library System kick off this capital campaign, says Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce President Matt Parker. When its complete, the new Ashford Library will be such an incredible resource for Ashford and the surrounding communities in Houston County. The current Ashford library is located on Sixth Avenue, not far from Ashford High School. According to the capital campaign site, the new facility will be larger, more convenient, and more welcoming. The relocation project, according to a DHCLS news release, will position the Ashford Library as a cornerstone of literacy and learning, economic opportunity, and quality of life for Ashford, as well as for the surrounding towns and cities in Houston County. For more information about the Ashford Library capital campaign or to make a donation, visit dhcls.org/ashford. New Delhi: Garena Free Fire releases redeem codes on an 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, and Twitter IDs to access the Free Fire redemption page. (Also read: WhatsApp entering film-making biz, movie to premiere on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube) Check out the Garena Free Fire Redeem Codes for October 3, 2022 FDRDSASERTYH FU816OUYTRDVB FHBVCDFQWERT FMKI88YTGFD8 KLLPDJHDDBJD EDXXDSZSSDFG HDFHDNBHNDJL VFGVJMCKDMHN NDJDFBGJFJFK ERTYHJNBVCDS F10IUJHGVCDSE F7UIJHBGFDFR FXCVBNMKDSXC FOKMJNBVCXSD FFTQT5IRMCNX FF7WSMOCN44Z FFA9UVHX4H7D FFAOES11YL2D FFX6OC2IIVYU WHYGN3J29VZU ID9S3QJKAFHX JIMYLVT46V2Z (Also read: OMG! An 18-year boy hacks Uber, employees' thoughts someone is joking) How to Redeem Garena Free Fire codes for today, October 3, 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: Some recent reports have claimed that the large camera housing on Apple`s iPhone 14 Pro smartphones hinders the wireless charging feature in some cases.According to Mashable, there have been several user complaints drawing attention to the issue on several forums. Users have complained that the iPhone 14 Pro is incompatible with several wireless chargers due to the camera bump, as it prevents some accessories from charging the smartphone. The reports state that the iPhone 14 Pro`s huge camera hump sets it apart from its forerunners externally. Although the cameras have more power, some have complained that they experience excessive shaking when using third-party apps. It was mentioned that the shaky camera configuration could possibly be causing problems with wireless charging compatibility. Previously some Verizon iPhone 14 Pro users in the U.S. complained of calls sporadically disconnecting and poor, unreliable 5G cellular connectivity, according to Mashable. Meanwhile, Apple released an iOS update to address the camera shakiness concerns that certain recent iPhone 14 Pro units were experiencing. To address this problem with the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max camera, Apple is now distributing the latest iOS 16.0.2 update. Third-party programs including Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok received reports of the problem. For every iPhone that can run iOS 16, the update is accessible, as per Mashable. Kolkata: Former West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee, who is an accused in the multi-crore West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) recruitment scam, has been denied permission to participate in the Durga Puja inside the Kolkata jail where he is currently lodged. According to the officials at the Presidency Central Correctional Home in south Kolkata, Partha faces a big threat to his life in jail and he is often ridiculed and humiliated by other jail inmates. While almost 2,500 inmates in Presidency Central Correctional Home in south Kolkata will be able to participate in the Durga puja organised jointly by the authorities and inmates within the jail premises, Partha will have to spend the majority of the time in his cell during the four days of Puja from October 1 to October 5. However, the former Bengal minister will not be denied the sumptuous delicacies, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, that the correctional home authorities are arranging for the inmates for the four days of the festival. State Correctional Services Department sources said that the former state education minister was keen to participate in the Puja. "However, considering all security aspects, the correctional home authorities decided to deny him permission to participate in the occasion. Whatever little time, the former minister is brought out of his cell, he has to face ridicule or taunting messages from his fellow inmates in the correctional home. So, there is a security risk of allowing him to participate in the Puja even though it is within the jail premises. However, the prison authorities are trying their best to take him in front of the Durga idol for a short period of time. But for that they will have to ensure that the other inmates are in their respective cells or wards at that point in time," an official said, according to news agency IANS. However, Partha is not the only inmate who has been denied permission to participate in Durga Puja. Some other inmates like Aftab Ansari, a convict in the case of an attack of American Center in Kolkata in 2022, is yet another Presidency Central Correctional Home inmate who has not been allowed to participate in the Puja," the official added. Arrested for his alleged involvement in the multi-crore West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) recruitment scam, Chatterjee will be behind the bars till October 31, when he will be presented at a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court after his current judicial custody ends. SHANGHAI: Billionaire Richard Liu, founder of one of China's largest e-commerce platforms JD.com, has settled a civil suit brought by former University of Michigan student Liu Jingyao, who had accused him of rape. The suit was part of a long-running legal battle between Richard Liu and Liu Jingyao, who was a 21-year-old student in 2018 when she said Richard Liu raped her after an evening of dinner and drinks. A statement from the lawsuit's parties said: "The incident between Ms. Jingyao Liu and Mr. Richard Liu in Minnesota in 2018 resulted in a misunderstanding that has consumed substantial public attention and brought profound suffering to the parties and their families." It went on to confirm that the case, which last week began jury selection proceedings in a Minnesota court, has been settled, but did not disclose the conditions of the settlement. JD.com declined to comment further on the case, while lawyers for Richard Liu and Liu Jingyao did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Richard Liu is a high-profile billionaire in China who founded and until earlier this year was chief executive of JD.com. He handed the CEO reins to Xu Lei in April. Liu Jingyao filed the civil suit in April 2019, four months after prosecutors declined to press criminal charges against Richard Liu. The case heavily dented Lius reputation in China and put scrutiny on his control of the e-commerce giant. In 2019, he resigned from the advisory body to Chinas parliament, citing personal reasons. The case had also galvanised many women in China, where issues such as sexual harassment and assault had for years been rarely broached in public until the #MeToo movement took root in 2018, though it has faced online censorship and official pushback since. Supporters of Liu Jingyao on Chinese social media called the settlement a win for Chinas #MeToo movement. News of the settlement quickly began trending on Chinese social media on Sunday, with more than 110 million people reading news on the topic. New Delhi: Condemning strongly the "hate crime" at a park named after the Bhagavad Gita in Canada, India urged authorities to take prompt action. "We condemn the hate crime at the Shri Bhagvad Gita Park in Brampton. We urge Canadian authorities and Peel Police to investigate and take prompt action on the perpetrators," High Commission of India in Ottawa said in a tweet. Also Read: 'Stay Alert, 'HATE CRIMES' rising': India WARNS its nationals in Canada A sign with the park`s name was allegedly vandalized and officials have ordered a probe, said city Mayor Patrick Brown, who confirmed the incident on Twitter. Condemning the incident, Brown said, "We have zero tolerance for this." He also said that the matter has now been flagged to Peel Regional Police for further investigation, adding that the Parks department is working to resolve and correct the sign as soon as possible Dubai: Iran's parliamentary speaker warned Sunday that protests over the death of a young woman in police custody could destabilise the country and urged security forces to deal harshly with those he claimed endanger public order, as countrywide unrest entered its third week. Posts on social media showed there were scattered anti-government protests in Tehran and running clashes with security forces in other towns Sunday, even as the government has moved to block, partly or entirely, internet connectivity in Iran. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf told lawmakers that unlike the current protests, which he said aim to topple the government, previous demonstrations by teachers and retirees over pay were aimed at reforms, according to the legislative body's website. "The important point of the (past) protests was that they were reform-seeking and not aimed at overthrowing" the system, said Qalibaf. "I ask all who have any (reasons to) protest not to allow their protest to turn into destabilising and toppling" of institutions. Thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets to protest the death of Mahsa Amini, 22, who had been detained by Iran's morality police in the capital Tehran for allegedly not adhering to Iran's strict Islamic dress code. The protesters have vented their anger over the treatment of women and wider repression in the Islamic Republic. The nationwide demonstrations rapidly escalated into calls for the overthrow of the clerical establishment that has ruled Iran since its 1979 Islamic revolution. Also Read: Turkish singer Melek Mosso chops off her hair in support of Iran protests over Mahsa Aminis death Iranian state TV has reported that at least 41 protesters and police have been killed since the demonstrations began Sept 17. An Associated Press count of official statements by authorities tallied at least 14 dead, with more than 1,500 demonstrators arrested. Qalibaf, the parliamentary speaker, is a former influential commander in the paramilitary Islamic Revolutionary Guard. Along with the president and the head of the judiciary, he is one of three ranking officials who deal with all important issues of the nation. The three meet regularly and sometimes meet with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has final say on all state matters. Qalibaf said he believes many of those taking part in recent protests had no intention of seeking to overthrow the government in the beginning and claimed foreign-based opposition groups were fomenting protests aimed at tearing down the system. Iranian authorities have not presented evidence for their allegations of foreign involvement in the protests. "Creating chaos in the streets will weaken social integrity, jeopardizing the economy while increasing pressure and sanctions by the enemy," he said, referring to longstanding crippling U.S. Sanctions on Iran. Qalibaf promised to "amend the structures and methods of the morality police" to prevent a recurrence of what happened to Amini. She died in the custody of the morality police. Her family alleged she was beaten, while officials claim she died of a heart attack. His remarks came after a closed meeting of Parliament and a brief rally by lawmakers to voice support for Khamenei and the police, chanting "death to hypocrites," a reference to Iranian opposition groups. The statement by Qalibaf is seen as an appeal to Iranians to stop their protests while supporting police and the security apparatus. Meanwhile, the hard-line Kayhan daily said Sunday that knife-carrying protesters attacked the newspaper building Saturday and shattered windows with rocks. It said they left when Guard members were deployed to the site. On Saturday, protests continued on the Tehran University campus and in nearby neighborhoods and witnesses said they saw many girls waving their head scarves above their heads in a gesture of defiance. Social media carried videos purportedly showing similar protests at the Mashhad and Shiraz universities but The Associated Press could not independently verify their authenticity. A protester near Tehran University, 19-year-old Fatemeh who only gave her first name for fear of repercussions, said she joined the demonstration "to stop this behavior by police against younger people especially girls." Abdolali, a 63-year-old teacher who also declined to give his last name, said he was shot twice in the foot by police. He said: "I am here to accompany and support my daughter. I once participated in the 1979 Islamic Revolution that promised justice and freedom; it is time to materialize them." Protests resumed on Sunday in several cities including Mashhad, according to social media reports, and Tehran's Sharif Industrial University, according to the semiofficial Tasnim news agency. Witnesses said security was tight in the areas nearby Tehran University and its neighborhoods downtown as hundreds of anti-riot police and plain clothes with their cars and motorbikes were stationed on junctions and squares. The AP could not immediately verify the authenticity of the reports. Also on Sunday, media outlets reported the death of another Revolutionary Guard member in the southeastern city of Zahedan. That brought to five the number of IRG members killed in an attack on a police station by gunmen that, according to state media, left 19 people dead. It wasn't clear if the attack, which Iranian authorities said was carried out by separatists, was related to the anti-government protests. Local media said a police officer also had died in the Kurdish city of Marivan, following injuries during clashes with protesters. The protests have drawn supporters from various ethnic groups, including Kurdish opposition movements in the northwest of Iran that operate along the border with neighboring Iraq. Amini was an Iranian Kurd and the protests first erupted in Kurdish areas. Dothan Leisure Services and the Alabama Department of Public Health will host the 18th Annual Health & Wellness Workshop on Thursday, Oct. 6, from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Dothan Civic Center. This workshop, presented by Southeast Health, Flowers Hospital, Wiregrass Foundation, and the Mike Schmitz Automotive Group, will offer health education through speakers, vendors, and demonstrations. This workshop is free to the public. For more information regarding the workshop, contact Dothan Leisure Services at 334-615-3700. For more information about other programs and facilities, visit www.dothanleisureservices.org, or Like and Follow Dothan Leisure Services on Facebook and Instagram. By Trend The Azerbaijani Army launched a counter-offensive operation, later called the "Iron Fist", on September 27, 2020 in response to the large-scale provocation of the Armenian armed forces along the frontline, Trend reports. The erupted 44-day Second Karabakh War ended with liberation of Azerbaijans territories from nearly 30-year Armenian occupation. Trend presents the chronicle of the eighth day of the Second Karabakh war: - President Ilham Aliyev announced that the Azerbaijani army raised the Azerbaijani flag in Madagiz (now renamed to Sugovushan), and announced the liberation from occupation of a number of villages in Tartar, Jabrayil and Fuzuli regions; - On October 3, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan presented a list of the destroyed military equipment of the Armenian Armed Forces. Its total losses amounted to 230 tanks and other armored vehicles, 250 artillery installations, multiple launch rocket systems and mortars, 38 air defense systems, 10 command and observation posts, 7 ammunition depots, more than 130 vehicles, 1 anti-aircraft missile complex S-300; - During the night of October 3, the combat activity of the Armenian armed forces in various directions of the front was suppressed, crushing blows were inflicted on them; - The armed forces of Armenia subjected to intensive shelling the city of Tartar, the regional villages of Sakhlaabad, Gazyan, Gapanli, Gaynag, Askipara, Gusanli, the villages of Aghdam region Ayag Garvand, Imamgulubeyli, Garadaghly, Tazakand, Ajabadin region of Muganli, Giyunyungodbaranla - Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev said at a briefing that since September 27, 19 civilians have been killed as a result of Armenian shelling. Among those killed are three women and two children; - The Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan has distributed footage of the destruction of Armenian Army's military equipment; - The Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan has distributed video footage from the territories liberated from the occupation; - residents of Baku on the balconies of their houses celebrated the liberation of the village of Sugovushan. Prosecutors want Casey Cole White tried in December for the murder of Vicky White, the Lauderdale County jailer who aided his escape earlier this year. In court documents filed on Sept. 30, District Attorney Chris Connelly requested that an arraignment be moved to Oct. 11, and that the trial commence on Dec. 12. Currently, a hearing is scheduled on Oct. 11 for several defense motions, including barring the imposition of the death penalty. Casey White is already set to stand trial for capital on Dec. 12 for the 2015 slaying of Connie Ridgeway of Rogersville. Authorities in Indiana, where Casey White in May was captured after an 11-day manhunt, said Vicky White the jail officer who authorities say facilitated Casey Whites escape took her own life with a gunshot to her head as police closed in. Under Alabama law, White has been charged with felony murder because a death occurred while he was committing a felony. A Lauderdale County grand jury indicted White on the charge in June. Casey White and Vicky White are not related. The indictment charges Casey White with first-degree escape and in the course and furtherance of committing escape in the first degree, caused the death of Vicky White, who died from a gunshot wound to the head. Lawyers for Casey White argued last month that he should not be charged with felony murder in the death of Vicky White because the law is unconstitutional. They argue in a motion said police video of the capture makes it clear that Vicky White took her own life. Big Four audit 40% of public companies in Vietnam The logo of Ernst & Young is seen in Zurich, Switzerland November 13, 2020. Photo by Reuters The so-called Big Four, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers, audit 40% of publicly traded companies in Vietnam. As of last year, Vietnams three stock markets, HoSE, HNX and UPCoM, had over 1,600 firms listed, and the four companies audited 664 of them. Their total revenues in 2021 were nearly VND3.76 trillion (US$160.2 million), and profits were VND235 billion. The profit margins in the industry are generally low compared to others, with PwC having the highest rate of 15.4% and KPMG the lowest of 0.4%. PwC also had the highest revenues of VND1.12 trillion followed by Deloitte with VND1.06 trillion. The latters revenues have increased for four straight years. Ernst & Young (EY) saw revenues decline for a third consecutive year. In the last five years KPMG's annual revenues have always been less than VND600 billion, the lowest of the four. Industry insiders said business results in the last two years were somewhat affected by the Covid-19 pandemic as customers cut costs and businesses only wanted to keep mandatory audit services and cut others such as consulting and tax advice. A deputy general director of a Big Four firm told VnExpress that auditing is a highly professional field that is completely different from normal production, business and service enterprises. "Unlike a public company, an audit firm does not have any external shareholders except partners who both run it and are its shareholders." EY performed the most audits last year, nearly 330, or the same as the other three combined. However, revenues do not come just from auditing. A senior official at a Big Four company said that auditing might be the core activity but has the lowest profit margin. Consulting has a higher profit margin, and the highest is the tax segment. "That is also the reason why many auditors actively seek to boost revenues from other segments." But for EY, auditing remains the backbone, accounting for nearly three-quarters of its total revenues last year. Some of its major clients include Vingroup, Bao Viet, The Gioi Di Dong, Agribank, Vietinbank, Sacombank, VnDirect, and SSI. Auditing accounts for nearly half the revenues for Deloitte with its major clients being Vietnam Airlines, FPT, Sun Life, and Wooribank. PwC and KPMG are more into non-audit services, with auditing only accounting for 4.3% and 14% of their revenues last year. PwC provides some 10 non-audit services including operation consulting, business consulting, legal advice, tax advice, and private business support. It is a major player in business consulting and operation consulting. KPMG is known for business consulting, tax consulting and law and legal services. In Vietnam, it regularly issues reports on corporate activities, human resource management, startups, and consumer behavior. A medical worker holds a vial of the Pfizer vaccine in HCMC, October 27, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran Vietnam has spent nearly VND79.7 trillion ($3.32 billion), to combat the coronavirus pandemic for the past two years, according to a recent government report. Of this amount, about two-thirds or over VND51.22 trillion was spent in 2021 alone, according to the report submitted to the National Assembly to review government management of economic and social affairs. Of this VND51.22 trillion, the Ministry of Health spent over VND8.8 trillion to buy Covid vaccines. In 2021, Vietnam also received 95.08 million doses of vaccination from other countries or international organizations either free of charge or with partial sponsorships. As for 2022, the government is continuing to manage over VND36.1 trillion to combat Covid-19. Roughly less than half of this amount is slated for vaccination procurement this year. To save money, last year the central government also slashed at least half of its administrative costs in organizing conferences and work trips, and saved 10% in other typical regular expenses. Former HCMC chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong is seen at a meeting in Ho Chi Minh City in 2020. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran Former HCMC Chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong and two other high-ranking officials have left the Party Central Committee after being accused of violations and shortcomings that had "serious consequences." The senior officials had asked to leave the committee and the 13th Party Central Committee voted to let them go at its sixth plenum that opened Monday. Apart from Nguyen Thanh Phong, the other members are Bui Nhat Quang, President of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, and Huynh Tan Viet, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Central Committee of Agencies. The Communist Party's decision-making Politburo rules that a Party member who has been disciplined can ask to resign or face dismissal. The Party Politburo had on July 8 issued an official warning to Phong and the Party Committee of the HCMC People's Committee for the 2016-2021 term. It said that as Deputy Secretary of the City Party Committee, Secretary of the Party Personnel Committee and Chairman of the HCMC People's Committee, Phong had to take direct responsibility for violations and shortcomings of the Party Personnel Committee and the People's Committee of HCMC for the 2016-2021 term, He also had to take personal responsibility for violations and shortcomings in the performance of assigned responsibilities and missions, the Politburo said. The Politburo assessed that the violations and shortcomings of the Party Committee of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee for the 2016-2021 term had caused very serious consequences that were difficult to overcome. The violations resulted in a huge loss of state property, triggered negative public opinion and anger among cadres and adversely affected the prestige of the Party Committee, the government and socio-economic development of the city. Phong, 60, a native of the southern province of Ben Tre, holds a doctorate in economics and was a member of the Party Central Committee for many terms. He was HCMC Peoples Committee Chairman from 2018 to August 2021, following which he was made Deputy Head of the Central Economic Commission. The Politburo had issued an official warning to Quang on September 30, saying he bears primary responsibility for deficiencies displayed and violations committed by the Standing Board of the Party Committee of the Vietnam Academy of Social Science from November 2019 to August 2020 as well as the 2020-2025 term. It said Quangs violations caused disunity within the Standing Committee of the Party Committee and the leadership of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. He and several affiliated units committed long-standing violations in the use of funds, property public investment, scientific research management, training and resolving complaints. They failed to follow strictly the instructions and conclusions of higher party organizations, the Politburo said. Bui Nhat Quang, President of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. Photo by VnExpress/Viet Tuan It said Quangs violations and shortcomings caused serious consequences, internal disunity and frustration among cadres and party members, adversely affecting his own reputation and that of the party organization and the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. Quang, 47, has a Ph.D. in economics. Since 1995, he has held different positions at the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. In 2014, he was appointed vice chairman of Ninh Thuan Province. He became president of the academy in November 2019. Viet had received a Politburo warning on July 22. As Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, and Chairman of the People's Council of Phu Yen Province, he was responsible for violations and shortcomings in several committees including: the Standing Board of the Provincial Party Committee; Standing Provincial Party Committee for the 2015-2020 term; and Party Committee of the Provincial People's Council for the 2016-2021 term. Huynh Tan Viet, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Central Committee of Agencies. Photo by Vietnam News Agency Viet has to take direct and personal responsibility for the performance of assigned duties and tasks, the Politburo said. It said his violations and shortcomings have caused serious consequences including great damage to the state budget, the prestige of the Party Committee and the local government. This, in turn, had negatively affected public opinion and triggered public outrage. An electron microscopic (EM) image shows mature, oval-shaped monkeypox virus particles as well as crescents and spherical particles of immature virions. Photo by Cynthia S. Goldsmith, Russell Regnery/CDC/Handout via Reuters HCMC Health Department said Monday it has detected a case of monkeypox infection through health screening, which would be the first in Vietnam. A representative of the Health Ministry said it has received the city's report and will make an official announcement. Ho Chi Minh City's Department of Health is cooperating with relevant agencies to monitor infections and stop them, it announced. Border gates have ramped up monitoring measures,. Suspected monkeypox cases at the border would be diagnosed and their medical and travel history analyzed. Those with symptoms and risk factors would be directed towards the HCMC Hospital for Tropical Diseases, which has been designated as the treatment facility for severe cases, or other general hospitals with quarantine capabilities. People can come to their nearest district-level hospitals to be tested for monkeypox if they have potential symptoms. Samples would be sent to the Hospital for Tropical Diseases or the Pasteur Institute for analysis. As people wait for their test results, they would need to either self-isolate or be isolated in hospitals. Potential symptoms include unexplained blisters, fevers above 38 degrees Celsius, headaches and muscle aches. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency over monkeypox outbreak as infections rose globally, with more than 35,000 cases across 92 countries and territories, and 12 deaths, as of August 15. Previously, the health ministry said people entering Vietnam from areas with monkeypox outbreaks will be monitored and suspected carriers will be quarantined. Risk factors include making contact with people infected or suspected to be infected with monkeypox, or having had sexual intercourse with multiple partners, within 21 days before the first symptoms appear, according to a temporary guide for monitoring and preventing monkeypox by the ministry. A section of the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway running through a mangrove forest in Dong Nai Province, August 2022. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran The investor of Ben Luc Long Thanh Expressway should finish the project in 2024 instead of 2025, the National Assembly chairman ordered. Leading a delegation to inspect the expressway project in Dong Nai Province that borders Ho Chi Minh City on Sunday, National Assembly (NA)chairman Vuong Dinh Hue said: "Related units should boost progress to cut the construction time by one year." In June, state-owned Vietnam Expressway Corporation (VEC), the project investor, asked for the government's permission to extend the project's completion deadline from 2023 to the third quarter of 2025. The expressway runs 57.7 kilometers between the provinces of Long An in the Mekong Delta and Dong Nai and passes through Ho Chi Minh City. Once complete, it will be the longest in southern Vietnam. Work started on the VND31 trillion ($1.34 billion) plus project in 2014 and initially, it was set to be completed in five years. Funding issues have delayed it several times. At the meeting with the NA leader, Pham Hong Quang, general director of VEC, said several construction packages have been stalled as contractors have refused to continue working on them due to investment fund issues though the site clearance process has basically been completed. However, most recently, the Commission for the Management of State Capital at Enterprises (CMSC) has agreed for the VEC to use the toll fees it had collected temporarily and several other reserves to pay the debts it owes contractors. Therefore, chairman Hue said the funding issue, the biggest challenge as cited by the investor, has been resolved leaving no reason for the project to be delayed further. He said Ben Luc Long Thanh is an important route of the Southern Key Economic Zone, which comprises of HCMC and the seven provinces of Binh Phuoc, Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Long An and Tien Giang. Connected to Dong Nais Long Thanh airport, which will replace HCMCs Tan Son Nhat to become Vietnams biggest, the Ben Luc-Long Thanh Expressway will run through a mangrove forest in Dong Nai Provinces Long Thanh District. The four-lane route with two emergency lanes will allow a maximum speed of 120kph and is expected to boost connections between the Mekong Delta and the rest of the southern region. Around 10 young children on Binh Thuan Province's Phu Quy Island were attacked and injured on Monday by a macaque who had escaped from a local family. The macaque, which weighed over 10 kilograms, entered a kindergarten in Ngu Phung Commune Monday afternoon. It climbed through a window of a class of around 20 kindergarteners, before biting the arms of a 4-year-old child. Teachers chased the macaque away and it escaped to a tree in the school yard. The 4-year-old was rushed to a local medical center and vaccinated against rabies as a precaution. Earlier on Monday morning, the Ngu Phung Peoples Committee had issued an announcement about a macaque let loose from a cage and going around attacking people. The macaque was bought by a family in Long Hai Commune from the mainland to be raised, but it had escaped a month prior, authorities said. Tran Trong Kim, deputy chairman of the Ngu Phung Peoples Committee, said the macaque was aggressive and tended to attack children. It often targeted children unattended by adults, he added. Over the past month, around 10 young children aged 2-13 had been attacked by the macaque and had to be vaccinated against rabies. The animal also caused damage to peoples property, he added. "District authorities have failed to catch it. The macaque is very smart and elusive," Kim said. Dinh Duc Linh, an animal expert at the Ta Cu conservation area, said it might be a pig-tailed macaque, which is included in Vietnams Red Data Book of endangered species. Phu Quy Island, about 100 kilometers from the mainland, has over 30,000 residents. There are usually no wild macaques present on the island. Nho Que River at the foot of Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang Province is seen from above. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy The northern province of Ha Giang, famous for rice terraces and mountain passes, wants a plan to build Tan Quang Airport to be included in the national aviation development scheme. In a proposal submitted to the Ministry of Transport, provincial authorities said the airport would cover an area of 388 hectares in Tan Quang Commune of Bac Quang District, around 60 kilometers to the north of Ha Giang Town. Provincial leaders said they have prepared the land fund to build the airport and arranged the budget for land clearance. Ha Giang is 300 kilometers from Hanoi and has become an increasingly popular tourist destination given its topography and ethnic diversity. Vietnam has 22 civilian airports, and late last year the ministry released plans for increasing the number to 28 by 2030 and 31 by 2050, including 14 international airports. Several provinces have recently sought approval to build airports to boost economic growth, including the northern provinces of Son La, Tuyen Quang and Ninh Binh, the central province of Ha Tinh and the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau. A Vietjet aircraft prepares to land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City in June 2020. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran Budget carrier Vietjet Air has launched direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Ahmedabad in India even as the tourism industry eyes the Indian market. There are four weekly flights on the routes -- on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays -- and fares start at VND688,000 ($28.80) excluding taxes and fees, the carrier said. "We now prioritize expanding and increasing flight operations to India to serve the rise in demand for both leisure and business travel," deputy CEO of the carrier, Nguyen Thanh Son, said. Ahmedabad is the largest city in the Indian state of Gujarat and famous for its ancient temples. Last month Vietjet began direct services to New Delhi and Mumbai from Phu Quoc Island. In the first nine months of this year Vietnam received 94,000 Indian visitors. There were 200,000 in 2019, the year before Covid broke out. Vietnamese students from local high schools meet with a U.S. college representative during a U.S. Higher Education Fair in Hanoi. Photo by AFP A working environment that doesn't match and low incomes prompt many Vietnamese professionals to stay back after graduating from foreign universities. Dr. Phan Minh Liem, 39, has remained in the U.S. after going there to study on a scholarship program in 2005. He now works at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, home to one of the world's largest cancer clinical trials programs. Aside from the lack of a modern and professional working environment, low income and poor remuneration mechanisms are other reasons why many Vietnamese individuals prefer to stay and work abroad than going back, Liem said. If scientists do not have the opportunity to constantly update their knowledge, learn, and exchange information with colleagues in a cutting-edge environment, they risk falling behind and being unable to catch up, he added. Prof. Pham Quang Hung, who has been teaching physics at the University of Virginia since 1982, said: "I stayed on in America in order to pursue my passion for research." Hung had obtained a PhD in Physics from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and conducted postdoctoral research at the Fermilab Particle Physics Division and the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) before becoming an academic himself to continue his research. He said he found America had the right technology, facilities, scientific and technological conditions and human resources to assist him in fulfilling his scientific dream. Institutions and laboratories are critical factors in determining the effectiveness of research papers and professional growth for scientists and intellectuals, particularly in fields demanding high scientific and technological research, and those requiring advanced technology, Hung said. Like Hung, a Vietnamese doctor working at one of the top U.S. hospitals, who wished not to be named, said a company in Vietnam offered him a very high-paying position, even more than some hospitals in America. However, he turned it down since he didnt think the working environment would "fit" him. Pham Quang Vu, 31, a software engineer who graduated valedictorian from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and now works at tech company Meta, which owns Facebook and other products and services, in the United States, claimed that his income is not fixed, but he earns around $600,000 a year. According to him, STEM degrees are often sought after by many Vietnamese international students, especially considering the fact that even a recent graduate can earn between $150,000-200,000 a year by working for corporate tech giants. Meanwhile, recruitment website VietnamWorks' research "Information Technology Human Resources Market" found that the average income of software engineers in Vietnam only rose from VND16 million ($674.7) per month in 2010 to VND32 million in 2020. The top salary for a software engineer is currently around VND150 million/month in Hanoi and VND160 million/month in HCMC, according to headhunting agency Adeco Vietnam. "The remuneration policy is not appealing enough to attract high-quality talents to move back for work in Vietnam," said another overseas Vietnamese doctor who wished to remain unnamed. Professor Truong Nguyen Thanh, who has worked for many years at the University of Utah in America, said it was "understandable" that many intellectuals do not wish to return to Vietnam after achieving great success abroad. Though the Vietnamese government has made numerous efforts to lure back high-quality individuals, just bringing them home is simply not enough. "In fact, their return to Vietnam might not be effective if they struggle to adapt to Vietnams work culture," he said. Thanh said it was critical that effective solutions are found so that Vietnamese choosing to stay abroad can contribute to the country's progress without having to return. Covid-19 has "given us numerous possible options" for sharing ideas across borders, he added. Liem also supported the option of working both abroad and in the country with research institutes, laboratories, and scientists to train the next generation. This would enable expatriate Vietnamese scientists to contribute to the country's growth while also furthering their professional development, he said. Hung said he has been participating in the establishment of the Advanced Physics program at Hue University of Education from 2006 until now, aiming to bridge the gap between Vietnamese and American scientific studies and their applications. Hue University's Advanced Physics program is based on that of the University of Virginia; and teaches Physics and Mathematics in English. Hundreds of professors and doctorate holders from America and other wealthy countries have been invited to lecture at the school. Hung said: "I, like many other Vietnamese working abroad, can contribute to the development of science in the country this way." A priest sprinkles holy water at a dog at a drive-through pet blessing, ahead of World Animal Day, at a mall in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, October 2, 2022. Photo by Reuters/Lisa Marie David Pomeranians Michi and Mochi were among 15 four-legged couples that tied the knot at a pet wedding ceremony in the Philippines on Sunday that was held along with a special blessing of pets to mark World Animal Day. Owners Ianne De Guia and Bryan Largo, who joined hundreds of other pet lovers for the animal blessing, said Michi and Mochi -- dressed in a gown and tuxedo for the occasion -- were able to cement their union after recently having puppies. The canine couples took the plunge at a park by a shopping mall where hundreds of animals, including cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, also received blessings in a drive-through and in-person ceremony from a priest who sprinkled them with holy water. A priest sprinkles holy water at a cat at a drive-through pet blessing, ahead of World Animal Day, at a mall in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, October 2, 2022. Photo by Reuters/Lisa Marie David It was the first in-person ceremony since the pandemic to mark World Animal day - celebrated worldwide to recognise animal rights and welfare - which falls on October 4, also the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. "The reason why pet blessings are important for us is for their protection, guidance from (the) Lord, especially good health and long life, and hopefully they won't get sick," said Paula Pacis, who had her five Shih Tzus blessed. Twenty-two-year-old Mahsa Amini from Irans Kurdistan province visited Tehran with her family on September 13. While exiting the metro with members of her family, Mahsa was arrested in Tehran by the so-called morality police for purportedly wearing an improper hijab and taken to the Vorzara Detention Center. Three days later she was pronounced braindead. State-affiliated media claimed Amini suffered a heart attack; her family says she was in perfect health. Hadi Ghaemi, executive director of the prominent human rights NGO Center for Human Rights in Iran, said Amini was arrested under the guise of the states forced-hijab law and died shortly after. The government is responsible for her death and decades of women being harassed, detained, and otherwise harmed under the guise of this discriminatory, inhuman law. Demonstrations over Aminis treatment by authorities broke out in numerous cities across Iran, including in Tehran and in Kurdistan province. Peaceful protesters have been met with force, and the Human Rights Activists News Agency, an organization monitoring rights violations in Iran, has identified at least 54 protesters killed during the protests. Aminis appalling death in police custody was condemned by the United States, the European Union and the United Nations. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on in a statement on Twitter, Mahsa Amini should be alive today. Instead, the United States and the Iranian people mourn her. We call on the Iranian government to end its systematic persecution of women and to allow peaceful protest. At a press briefing, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said, [Aminis death] is a reflection of the complete repression and brutality of a regime that a woman simply seeking to exercise her basic right could die in this way. And it is not surprising that we are seeing people in all walks of life come out in Iran to object vigorously to that and say this is not the kind of society that they want to live in. It is not consistent with any countrys obligations under the Universal Declaration of Huan Rights, declared National Security Advisor Sullivan. And its something the United States will speak our fiercely and unequivocally against. Sri Lanka, still navigating its way out of a political crisis, is also facing its most serious economic crisis since it gained independence after the Second World War. According to the World Food Program, some 6.3 million people in Sri Lanka face food insecurity. Sri Lanka's current economic hardships ... have many sources, said USAID Administrator Samantha Power during her mid-September visit there. The accumulation over many years of mountains of unsustainable debt, the tourism sector devastated by COVID-19, and before that, the Easter Sunday bombings, corruption, and self-dealing. Since 2017, Sri Lankas farmers have seen their crop yields diminish by about half. This is partly due to drought, but also because of a severe shortage of fertilizer due to an acute scarcity of dollars for imports and policy decisions made by the previous government. To help alleviate this problem, Administrator Power announced that, subject to congressional approval, the United States will provide forty million dollars to bring fertilizer to as many as one million farmers in time for the new planting season. This crucial assistance will significantly boost harvest production and yields. But until these crops can be harvested, millions of Sri Lankans still need to eat. So, the United States will provide an additional twenty million dollars for humanitarian assistance to Sri Lankans suffering hunger and malnutrition. With these new announcements, the United States has now committed nearly 240 million dollars since June of this year to meet the urgent needs of Sri Lankans, said Administrator Power. But assistance alone will not put an end to this country's woes, she warned. Political reforms and political accountability must go hand in hand with the economic reforms and economic accountability. Sri Lanka's vibrant civil society must have the space that they need, to raise their voices and hold the government accountable. She added that as Sri Lanka begins to emerge from its economic crisis, the United States will help in the restructuring of the country's crippling debt. However, all of Sri Lanka's creditors must cooperate in this process openly and on comparable terms with each other. For over 70 years, the United States has invested in Sri Lanka to extend peace and prosperity to the people of this country, contributing, in fact, more than two billion dollars in assistance over the years. Today's support builds on that legacy as the American people work to assist the Sri Lankan people in their effort, in your effort, to move past this very, very difficult chapter. The United States welcomes the safe return of Mark Frerichs, an American Navy veteran who spent more than two and a half years in captivity in Afghanistan. His release, said President Joe Biden, is the culmination of years of work by dedicated public servants across the government along with other partners around the world, including the Qatari government. Secretary of State Blinken underscored the United States commitment to bring home all U.S. nationals who are being arbitrarily detained or held hostage anywhere in the world: We bring the same determination and focus to those efforts as we brought to the effort to bring Mark Frerichs out of captivity and home to his loved ones. For the United States, there is no higher priority than bringing Americans who are being arbitrarily and unjustly detained, held hostage, back home to freedom, to their families. President Biden reaffirmed that his administration continues to prioritize the safe return of all Americans who are held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad, and we will not stop until they are reunited with their families. He added, We have much more work to do in many other cases, but Marks release demonstrates our enduring commitment. Like our work to free Americans held in Burma, Haiti, Russia, Venezuela, and elsewhere, it is our duty to do all we can to bring our people home. City of Elko Planning Commission will meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5, at Elko City Hall. Agenda items include a conditional use permit request from Lac La Belle Inc. for commercial development abutting a residential zone at 1302 Clarkson Drive, a conditional use permit request on behalf of Vitality Unlimited to allow a halfway house at 1379 Lamoille Highway/1342 Southside Drive, and a request filed by Igloo Inc. for a variance from requirements for a park and ride facility at 1515 Silver St. Elko Area Chambers Government Affairs Committee will host a candidate debate at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, in the Elko Conference Center. Mayoral candidates Reece Keener and Michael Hagen will face off, followed by Justice of the Peace candidates David Loreman and Bryan Drake. Elko County Regional Transportation Commission will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, in the Nannini Administration Building. The panel will discuss increased costs for road work on Dice Drive in Jackpot, and review quarterly financial reports relating to the regional street and highway fund. Elko County Board of Commissioners will meet at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, in the Nannini Administration Building. Agenda items include consideration of a lease agreement with Elko Realty for rental property next to the Spring Creek Volunteer Fire Station, to provide temporary housing for fire crews. Also to be considered is a request from the Montello Advisory Board to ask the Nevada Department of Transportation to reduce the speed limit through town from 35 to 25 mph. Elko Area Chambers Government Affairs Committee will host a Nevada Assembly candidate debate at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, in the Elko Conference Center. The candidates are John "Doc" Garrard and Bert Gurr. ELKO Elko County election officials have added early voting locations in Owyhee and on the Elko Indian Colony for the first time this year at the request of tribal leaders, but they are being sued because the dates and hours are less than polls are open in the City of Elko. Early voting has traditionally been conducted only at the Elko Convention Center, meaning residents from outlying areas would need to travel up to 100 miles or more. This year, early voting runs from Oct. 22 to Nov. 4 in Elko and at the new polling locations of Owyhee on Oct. 28-29 and Nov. 4, and the Elko Indian Colony on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2. The Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation, with the assistance of Four Directions Native Vote, filed a lawsuit on Sept. 16 against the county claiming unequal voting opportunities, stating The Defendants refusal to establish polling sites on the Reservation amid the pandemic denies Tribal members in Elko County equal access to polling locations, violates state law, and imposes constitutional burdens on their fundamental right to vote. The lawsuit names all current county commissioners, the county clerk and deputy clerks. They did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Shoshone-Paiute Tribal Chairman Brian Mason said, We made the request for in-person voting access in a timely fashion as per the Nevada statute on the form authorized by Nevadas Secretary of State. Elko County refuses to comply with the Constitution and leaves us no recourse other than litigation. Voting is the backbone of Democracy in America. A fifteen-fold advantage for the residents of Elko compared to the members of the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation cannot in any court or by anyone be considered an equal shot at the ballot box, stated Four Directions Native Vote Director OJ Semans. In their release on the lawsuit, Four Directions stated that the median household income of Elko County is around $79,000 compared to $46,000 in Owyhee, yet if a tribal member wants to register to vote or vote outside of the allotted 8 hours they must travel approximately 200 miles or 3 hours and 34 minutes round trip. Nevadas constitution requires the voting process be equally open for minority voters as it is for white voters, stated Four Directions. Miller Law and Sandven Law are representing the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes, after successfully representing the plaintiffs in Sanchez v Cegavske in 2016. As a result of the passage of Senate Joint Resolution No. 8 in 2019, Question 1 on this falls ballot asks if the constitution should be amended by adding a specific guarantee that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by this State or any of its cities, counties, or other political subdivisions on account of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, ancestry, or national origin? Meanwhile, all registered voters in Nevada have the option of voting by mail this year, following the passage of Assembly Bill 321 in 2021. Voters can opt out by submitting a form on the Nevada Secretary of States website. Forms are available in English, Spanish and Tagalog. All eligible Nevadans may register to vote online or as late as Election Day at their established polling locations. Early voting ballots have been mailed to registered voters in Elko County and should be arriving in mailboxes this week. -- This article has been corrected from the original version that transposed the dates of voting in Owyhee and at the Elko Indian Colony. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has gone a long way to make positive contributions to many countries since its inception in 2013. The initiative has so far gained ground across Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, North Africa, and Central and Eastern Europe. The combined land territories of those regions account for more than one-third of the world's total, a population of around 60%, and a GDP of 32%, which speaks volumes of its feats. The initiative has also boosted international cooperation on education. China has signed agreements with many other BRI countries on mutual recognition of academic certificates and degrees in higher education, and over 60 Chinese universities have launched academic programs in partnership with local institutions in BRI countries. If we break down the outcomes of the initiative, we can find that large projects under the BRI have greatly boosted the economy and improved local people's livelihoods in many countries all over the world. Pakistan's Ambassador to China Moinul Haque said that the BRI has transformed Pakistan's economic landscape. He mentioned that BRI projects in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor have created around 70,000 jobs in Pakistan. BRI projects have benefited Pakistanis through job creation, improved livelihoods, poverty eradication, and upgrading of remote areas. Large BRI projects in Cambodia, including the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, hydropower plants, Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, the new Siem Reap International Airport, the Morodok Techo National Stadium, roads and bridges, hospitals, and rural water supplies, have similarly generated more than 3,000 jobs for Cambodians during construction. According to a report by the Ministry of Commerce of Cambodia, BRI projects will help Cambodia to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050. They will be the major contributors to Cambodia's economic growth in the post-pandemic era too. Some infrastructure projects are also being implemented in Bangladesh in collaboration with China. Several have already begun, and the people of Bangladesh are reaping the dividends. The Bangladesh Power System Upgrade and Expansion Project, a $165 million power project, is a vivid example of how the BRI is playing a role in improving the livelihoods of the people of the country. This project has benefited more than 7 million Bangladeshis by helping provide electricity connections to over 2.5 million rural people. Besides, China is now implementing a series of infrastructure projects in Bangladesh, including an economic and industrial zone, power plant, bridge, and an exhibition center. Every project has created a huge number of jobs, bringing about enormous socio-economic development in Bangladesh. The China-backed Karnaphuli Multi-Channel Tunnel Project is now underway and scheduled to be finished at the end of this year. The tunnel will connect the port city of Chittagong to the far side of the Karnaphuli River, which will shorten travel time from four hours to just 20 minutes. The Special Chinese Economic Zone, another BRI project in southern Bangladesh, will have the capacity to house 150-200 industrial units and will focus on a range of different industrial sectors, including shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, electronics, agri-business, IT, chemicals, power, and textiles. The 750-acre economic zone is set to create more than 75,000 jobs, a boon to the huge number of unemployed youths in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the Padma Bridge rail link, upon fruition, will cut the travel time from Dhaka to Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, from nine hours to about four. The bridge will ease pressure on the country's premier seaport in Chittagong as it will bolster the second largest Mongla seaport in Bagerhat. Finally, the BRI has also brought good news to Bangladeshi students who aspire to receive a quality education in China. Under the initiative, China has increased its scholarship entry number to 8,000 for Bangladesh. This great opportunity has contributed to increasing remittance inflows to Bangladesh, which is the country's second-largest source of foreign currency earnings, by producing skilled human resources. Apart from these projects, a great number of other BRI plans are immensely contributing to the socio-economic development of many countries. They are directly uplifting the livelihoods of millions of people all over the world, paving the way for the establishment of their basic human rights. The author is a Bangladeshi journalist based in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping just concluded his visit to Central Asia and attendance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit. As the much anticipated, twice-in-a-decade national congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is less than one month away, this visit naturally attracts much attention from international observers: what is the key message of President Xi's first travel overseas since the pandemic began? What is China's solution to the challenges in this complex and uncertain world? Under the leadership of President Xi, China has committed itself to advance dialogue and cooperation, promoting unity and openness, and safeguarding peace and development. As a constructive force in international relations, China is playing an increasingly important role in ensuring the long-term stability and sustainable development of the world. To promote peace and security, the two defining themes of our times, and address global challenges, President Xi has proposed the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and Global Development Initiative (GDI). The Central Asian visit gives us some rough ideas about how these two initiatives are relevant to the region and the world. Preserving Peace With a New Approach to Security Peace and security are interdependent. In today's world, profound changes in major-power relations, the spillover of geopolitical conflicts, the resurgence of unilateralism, group politics and the Cold War mentality, and the emergence of non-traditional security issues have all created immense pressure on global peace and security. This is why China proposed the GSI: to address the peace deficit and pursue security for all, by promoting a shared commitment to common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security. During the SCO Summit, President Xi further elaborated on this initiative to the participating leaders, especially its unique value in resolving issues like Afghanistan. He called for a balanced, effective, and sustainable security architecture, and announced substantive measures to help maintain peace and security in the region, including training 2,000 law enforcement personnel for SCO member states in the next five years and setting up a China-SCO base for training counter-terrorism personnel. When meeting bilaterally with Central Asian leaders, President Xi reiterated China's support for their efforts to uphold national independence, sovereignty, and security, and voiced opposition to external interference in domestic affairs. China's commitment to cooperation and show of support was widely applauded by the Central Asian leaders, which will generate even stronger momentum for security cooperation among regional countries under the GSI. Pursuing Development Through Open and Inclusive Cooperation As President Xi noted in his SCO speech, "Human society has both sunny and rainy days in its development." And the global picture of development is by no means sunny at the moment. Supply chain disruptions, energy, and food crises as well as uncertainties caused by the pandemic and regional conflicts are putting economies under strain. The deficit in development has only widened in recent years, and members of the Global South are finding it even more difficult to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). People around the world are looking for a solution to these problems, a way to navigate through the "rainy days". Many have shared their ideas, and China's proposal, most aptly captured by the GDI, is for countries to foster a global development partnership for "more robust, greener and more balanced global development". Being close neighbors of China, the Central Asian countries are well positioned to play a leading role in delivering the vision of the GDI and benefit from its implementation, just as their active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has proven. Since the launch of the BRI nearly a decade ago, major infrastructure projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan highway and the China-Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan railway have helped Uzbekistan, a land-locked country on the ancient Silk Road, transform into a land-linked country. The China-Kazakhstan International Logistics Base in the coastal Chinese city of Lianyungang has made it possible for Kazakhstan to ship its products through the Pacific Ocean to the world. To further develop cooperation with its Central Asian neighbors, President Xi pledged to step up cooperation in a broad range of areas, including agriculture, energy, supply chains, and innovation. He also announced the plan to provide developing countries in need with 1.5 billion RMB yuan worth of emergency humanitarian assistance, and offer satellite data services to support regional countries in agricultural development, connectivity, and disaster mitigation and relief. Aligned with the needs of Central Asian countries, the GDI will open up broader prospects for sustainable development in the region. The Party Congress Will Reinforce Chinas Commitment to Peace and Development Unsurprisingly, as the 20th CPC National Congress will soon be convened in October, the world is all eyes on China. People outside China are eager to learn what new policies China would introduce after the Party Congress and what they mean to the world. During his visit, President Xi answered some of these questions by conveying a message of confidence, a message warmly received by his counterparts. The CPC will "formulate programs of action and overarching policies to meet China's new development goals" and "new expectations of the people", President Xi said. Demonstrating China's unwavering commitment and sense of responsibility, he also reaffirmed that the country will continue to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, create new opportunities for the world with new advances in its development, and contribute its vision and strength to world peace and development and human progress. Actions speak louder than words. This is a value cherished in China and across the world. As uncertain as the journey ahead may be, one thing is certain: China, under the leadership of the CPC, will remain as committed as ever to peace and development of the region and being a force for good in the world. The author is a Beijing-Based Observer of International Affairs. Source: Brown Land News. Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz poses for a photo with his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh (right) during their meeting on September 29. (Photo: VNA) During his stay in Vietnam, the leader held talks with his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh, paid a courtesy call to Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, and separately met President Nguyen Xuan Phuc and National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue. He was bestowed with Vietnams Ho Chi Minh Order and attended a Vietnam-Cuba business forum. He also had a meeting with HCM City leaders and witnessed the signing of multiple agreements between the two countries. In his reception for the Cuban leader, Party General Secretary Trong said his Vietnam visit will deepen the special friendship and cooperation between the two countries and Parties long nurtured by generations of Vietnamese and Cuban leaders, and affirmed that the Vietnamese Party, State and people forever treasure Cubas support to Vietnam's national struggle for independence and reconstruction. Meeting President Phuc, the Cuban PM said his coutry wishes to further beef up the long-standing friendship and comprehensive partnership with Vietnam, adding Cuba hopes to learn from Vietnams experience in policy making and enforcement in socio-economic development, international integration and response to global economic challenges. Amidst global uncertainties, Vietnam always keeps its solidarity with and backs its brother Cuba, Phuc said. In his bilateral meeting, NA Chairman Hue told the Cuban leader that the Vietnamese NA will continue to coordinate closely with its Cuban counterpart at regional and international parliamentary forums and exchange experience in law making and supervision. Holding talks with his Vietnamese counterpart Chinh, both sides expressed their delight at the progress the two countries have achieved in cooperation in agriculture, investment and health care as well as the effectiveness of the bilateral cooperation mechanism. The two PMs agreed to maintain dialogues and high-level delegation exchanges and to enhance partnership via the two Parties theoretical conferences and meetings of the inter-governmental committees on economic and science-technology cooperation. The two sides discussed ways to practically and effectively intensify cooperation in politics and diplomacy, national defence and security, trade and investment, health care, education and training, pharmaceuticals and others. PM Chinh stated that Vietnam is ready to share experience with Cuba in making agriculture a key economic pillar. The two leaders plan to create all possible conditions for investors of each other in the areas of tourism and industrial-park infrastructure development, manufacturing of construction materials and consumer goods, and renewable energy while seeking opportunities for partnership in other potential fields. The two sides agreed to continue consulting and supporting each other at international and multilateral forums and backed one anothers stance on settling disputes through peaceful solutions based on international law and UN Charter. PM Chinh later announced Vietnam will donate 5,000 tonnes of rice to help Cuba address current socio-economic challenges. It was the first visit to a non-Latin American country since the Cuban leader took office in December 2019 and also the first by a Cuban high-level leader to Vietnam since 2018./. NA leader Vuong Dinh Hue visits Loc An-Binh Son resettlement areas (Photo: VNA) Inspecting the progress of the airport project on October 2, the top legislator lauded the provinces performance in building the Loc An-Binh Son resettlement areas, requesting the locality to ensure that the living conditions in the area is equal to or higher than that in the old one. He underlined that the Long Thanh project has seen a slow progress as it has so far spanned through three NA tenures. However, the NA Chairman noted that recently, under the direction of the Government and the direct management of Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh, the project has been sped up. As scheduled, in the first phase, one runway and one passenger terminal of Long Thanh International Airport will be put into operation by 2025, enabling the airport to welcome 25 million passengers and handle 1.2 million tonnes of cargo per year. This means there are only three years left to complete the plan, he noted, stressing the need to take drastic actions to ensure the progress of the project. He asked Dong Nai to report all difficulties and obstacles facing the implementation of the project to the NA Standing Committee to seek timely solutions. The top legislator assigned the NA General Secretary and Chairman of the NA Office to organise a working session to find solutions to the difficulties, highlighting that the NA always accompany the Government and localities during this important project. He requested the ACV to select contractors with full financial capacity and experience to construct the project, ensuring openness and transparency during the process. Earlier the same day, NA Chairman Hue, along with Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh, also inspected the Ben Luc-Long Thanh expressway project, which has been completed by 79.65%, slower than the schedule. The NA Standing Committee has approved a plan to allocate 30.22 trillion VND (1.26 billion USD) from the middle-term public investment plan to the Ministry of Construct to implement the project. He also visited the resettlement area at the Loc An and Binh Son communes, Long Thanh district for those who have to move to give space for the project./. by Yao Bing, Marwa Yahya CAIRO, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) has gone a long way toward boosting the prosperity and welfare of the Chinese people since its establishment over 100 years ago, former Egyptian Prime Minister Essam Sharaf has said. "Eradicating extreme poverty is a miracle that is attributed to the CPC's fundamental thoughts and ideologies that proved to be the core and the driving force of all aspects of development in China," Sharaf said in a recent interview with Xinhua. China's success serves the interests of the whole world and the CPC has offered the world a different government system, from which developing countries could learn, he said. Sharaf first visited China in 2005, and between 2014 and 2019 he visited China over 30 times, during which he was deeply impressed by the Chinese people. The CPC members he met at the time were proud of the country's achievements and development, Sharaf said. Sharaf said he learned from his over 30 visits to China that "'Putting People First' broadened people's support for and loyalty to the party's leadership." Sharaf said he is impressed by China's economic, social and cultural achievements along with combating poverty and corruption, and improving the people's health and welfare conditions, adding that opening-up to the world is a successful policy of China at the international level. The Belt and Road Initiative is a vivid illustration of the policy of opening up and also serves as a platform promoting multilateralism and globalization, and expanding the scope of international cooperation, he said. In recent years, he said, the construction of its New Suez Canal economic corridor as well as transportation, energy, and other projects are examples of cooperation between Egypt and China, which has created a lot of job opportunities and enhanced economic development in the north African country. "The two countries have a promising prospect for cooperation," he said. Editor: JYZ Photo taken on June 22, 2021 shows an exterior view of the Museum of the Communist Party of China in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong) BEIJING, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) -- "Every citizen is entitled to the rights and at the same time must perform the duties prescribed by the Constitution and other laws." On Dec. 3, 2021, students of Shanxi Agricultural University (Taigu Campus), under the guidance of their teachers, recited the Constitution in a morning recitation marking National Constitution Day, which falls on Dec. 4 every year. This was among the activities held in various forms across the country to promote public awareness of the Constitution during the yearly "Constitution Awareness Week." The Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee has included comprehensively advancing law-based governance as a part of China's Four-pronged Comprehensive Strategy for building socialism with Chinese characteristics since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012. The other three prongs are building a modern socialist country, deepening reform, and strengthening Party self-governance. Over the years, the central Party leadership has acted with resolve and intensity as never before to comprehensively advance law-based governance. TOP-LEVEL DESIGN "Passed!" On May 28, 2020, the lawmakers at the Great Hall of the People broke into long applause as the Civil Code was adopted by the legislature. Hailed as "a declaration of the people's rights in the new era," the law marks a landmark achievement in terms of advancing law-based governance and is of great significance to accelerating the building of a socialist country based on the rule of law. Over the past 10 years, the CPC Central Committee has combined top-level design with the practice of rule by law. The plan on developing the rule of law in China (2020-2025), the implementation outline for building a law-based government (2021-2025), and the implementation outline for building a society based on the rule of law (2020-2025), have been rolled out. They set the grand blueprint, roadmap, and construction drawings for advancing the rule of law in all respects in the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), putting in place a general pattern for comprehensively advancing law-based governance. GOOD LAWS FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE The Yangtze finless porpoise, a rotund creature with its mouth fixed in a permanent grin, is known in China as a "smiling angel." Porpoises in groups spyhopping above the surface of the Yangtze River is now a usual summer scene again at the lower reaches of the Gezhouba Dam in central China's Yichang City, due to enhanced ecological protection efforts underpinned by the enforcement of the Yangtze River Protection Law. Accelerated legislation for environmental protection over the past decade has boosted China's ecological and environmental governance. The National People's Congress and its standing committee have formulated a total of 70 laws, revised 238 laws, passed 99 decisions on legal questions and other major issues, and issued nine legal interpretations since the 18th CPC National Congress. To improve law-based governance, it is crucial to safeguard judicial impartiality. The country's judicial organs have followed the principle of seeking truth from facts and correcting any mistakes, resulting in the correction of wrongful convictions of criminal cases in accordance with laws over the past decade. PEOPLE-CENTERED APPROACH The central Party leadership has, since the 18th CPC National Congress, upheld a people-centered approach, safeguarded the rights and interests of the people, and guaranteed the people's sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security with the rule of law. Progress has been made on deepening reforms to streamline administration, delegate powers, improve regulation, and upgrade services. Efforts have been made to scrap redundant certification requirements and strengthen the provision of legal aid for people in difficulties and safeguard their legitimate rights. For example, the implementation of a case docketing and registration system further solves the difficulties of case filing, with an average on-the-spot case registration rate of 95.7 percent as of June 2022. The law-based governance has empowered economic and social development, elevating China's governance to a higher level. Editor: JYZ Biosphere Corporation, Ukraine's largest manufacturer and distributor of household goods and hygiene products, has expanded its international export campaign Support Ukrainians to Romania with the support of the Ukrainian Embassy in this country. "We will transfer part of the profit from the sale of our export products to help Ukrainian children," Andriy Zdesenko, the founder and CEO of the Biosphere Corporation, said, describing the essence of the program at a press conference in Bucharest. Biosphere Corporation will cooperate with UNICEF in Ukraine and donate 30 bani (slightly more than UAH 2 at the current exchange rate) from each unit of products sold as part of the initiative in Romania to help Ukrainian children. As part of the initiative, special shelves with Ukrainian products of the Biosphere Corporation will be organized in the stores of the largest European chains to attract customers to purchase Ukrainian-made goods. Previously, a similar campaign was launched in Croatia, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. In the Baltic States, in particular, 5 euro cents are given to children from each product unit. As of the middle of September 2022, collected donations exceeded EUR 25,000. "We are glad that Romanian distributors and retail chains are joining the campaign. This is another manifestation of solidarity and friendly support for Ukraine by Romania in the hardest fight against the Russian aggressor, the fight for the freedom and independence of Ukraine, Europe and the democratic world community," Ambassador of Ukraine to Romania Ihor Prokopchuk said at a press conference. The EU and Ukraine have signed a memorandum of understanding on the provision of macro-financial assistance for EUR 5 billion, the first part of it will be paid in mid-October, Executive Deputy Chairman of the European Commission Valdis Dombrovskis said. Pleased to sign second Memorandum of Understanding with Ukraine since Russia began its brutal war. This time: the EU will provide EUR 5 bln for Ukraines immediate liquidity needs, pay salaries & pensions. We will deliver first part mid-October, next two parts to follow later in year, Dombrovskis said on Twitter Monday. Zelensky calls powerful statement by nine NATO countries in support of Ukraine's entry into Alliance President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky called "powerful" the joint statement of nine NATO countries that supported Ukraine's entry into the Alliance. "We have a powerful joint statement today from the leaders of nine NATO states: the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania and Slovakia," he said. "They condemned the Russian escalation steps and, very importantly, supported our aspiration to become a full member of NATO. We are moving in this direction. I am sure that we will implement this project of ours," Zelensky stressed. There is no reason for our project to build a new fleet for Ukraine to fail. We are implementing all the plans, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video message on Sunday. Noting the launch of the Hetman Mazepa corvette in Turkey on Sunday, Zelensky called it "symbolic that it received such a name." "Despite centuries of Russian false propaganda, historical truth and justice still win," he said. "And there is no reason for our project to build a new fleet for Ukraine to fail. We are implementing all our plans. Our goal is to create a full-fledged base for the maintenance and construction of ships in Ukraine," the President stressed. Zelensky noted that the visit of head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak to Baykar was not symbolic. "We are preparing to create a training center and a plant of the Baykar company in Ukraine, as well as joint manufacturing of aircraft engines. We will definitely implement these projects," Zelensky said. "Ukraine has always been and will be one of the European centers of the military and aviation industry. And I am proud that I can say these words with absolute confidence and justification based on the results of the 221st day of Russia's full-scale war against our state," he stressed. When the Ukrainian army returns the flag to the liberated territories, no one remembers the Russian farce with annexations, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video message on Sunday evening. "Every day at least twice in the morning and in the evening I receive reports from our military. This week, in the reports, the largest part is devoted to the list of settlements liberated from the enemy as part of our defense operation. This is the trend, you know," he said. According to the president, "recently, someone somewhere held pseudo-referenda, and when the Ukrainian flag returns, no one remembers the Russian farce with some papers and some kind of annexations. Except, of course, the law enforcement agencies of Ukraine." "Because everyone, who is involved in any elements of aggression against our state, will be held accountable for this. And I thank everyone who brings these moments of victory closer, who returns the Ukrainian flag to its rightful places on Ukrainian soil. Thanks to everyone: from generals to privates, from professional soldiers, intelligence officers and special services to volunteers and everyone who helps protect our state," the President said. Yermak meets with chief adviser to Turkish President, national security adviser to U.S. President in trilateral format As part of his visit to Turkey, Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak met with Chief Advisor to the President of the Republic of Turkey Ibrahim Kaln and National Security Adviser to the President of the United States Jake Sullivan in a trilateral format. According to the press service of the President's Office, the interlocutors discussed the course of the situation at the front and the coordination of measures to respond to the latest aggressive actions of the Russian Federation. Yermak focused on the need for Ukraine to receive reliable international security guarantees before gaining NATO membership. He recalled that the International Working Group on Security Guarantees for Ukraine, which he heads together with former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, had prepared recommendations regarding the Kyiv Security Compact, the conclusion of which should provide the Ukrainian side with effective security guarantees for this transitional period. The head of the President's Office emphasized the importance of a tough reaction to Russia's holding of so-called "referendums" on the temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories and the adoption of an illegal decision on their annexation. "The territorial integrity of Ukraine will be restored. This is the principled position of President Volodymyr Zelensky, the entire military-political leadership of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people," he said. The parties discussed the continuation of security assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the urgent priority needs of the defense forces of Ukraine, and the importance of promptly receiving such support and increasing it. Also, during the visit, Yermak held separate meetings with Ibrahim Kaln and Jake Sullivan in bilateral formats. On October 3-12, the first ever tour of the Ukrainian Foreign Minister to African countries will take place, Minister Dmytro Kuleba will begin the tour with a visit to Senegal. As the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes, the tour is an important element of the African strategy developed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and which has become a "road map" for the development of relations between our state and the region. The key topic of the minister's talks will be the consolidation of political support for Ukraine from the countries of the global south amid Russian aggression, in particular, the latest attempt to annex Ukrainian territories. Other priorities of the negotiations will be strengthening the role of Ukraine as a guarantor of world food security, deepening cooperation in the field of education, promoting Ukrainian IT products, in particular the Diia platform, creating new opportunities for Ukrainian exports using the capabilities of the Nazovni system. Within the framework of the visits, a number of business forums with the participation of leading Ukrainian and African companies are also planned. The visits of the Foreign Minister will open a new section of cooperation with the countries of the African continent and will contribute to the implementation of Ukraine's global and proactive diplomacy. The minister's tour will also be a preparation for a large-scale Ukraine-Africa conference. By Azernews By Sabina Mammadli Non-governmental organizations working within the framework of the mine risk control project in Azerbaijan have addressed a statement to international organizations over recent mine incidents across the country, President of the International Eurasian Press Foundation Umud Mirzayev said. The statement emphasized that the illegal actions of the Armenian military units, which massively polluted the liberated territories of Azerbaijan with mines and dangerous ammunition, destroyed settlements, villages, and cities, and wiped them off the face of the earth, continue to this day. It was noted that the explosion of mines in recent days in the Fuzuli, Tartar, and Khojavand districts, as a result of which 2 people were killed and 4 seriously injured, is a continuation of these actions. We, as civil society organizations, are deeply concerned about the recent mine incidents that have resulted in the death of our civilians. If the world community does not take the mine problem of Azerbaijan seriously, if it is not given a legal assessment at the international level, then this crime against humanity will deepen every day and take the lives of more and more people. Unfortunately, the mine incidents that have taken place once again confirm the seriousness of the threat of this problem and the importance of the numerous calls, messages, and statements we have voiced, the statement stressed. The statement added that, at present, Armenian provocateurs secretly are penetrating the liberated regions to plant mines in Azerbaijani territories. One of the reasons for the fighting on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border on September 12-13 relates to this provocation. It was added that during the inspection of these territories, it was found that the Armenians again buried thousands of mines. The NGOs reported that over 230 citizens, mostly civilians, became victims of mine explosions after the agreement of November 10, 2020. Among them were workers of social infrastructure facilities and military personnel. They emphasized that the world community turns a blind eye to the mining of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia and remains silent. As civil society organizations, we are witnessing the disdainful attitude of international organizations and donors towards the mine problem of our country. We appeal to the UN and its agencies, international organizations, including donors, and investors, calling them to support the solution of the global mine problem in Azerbaijan, the statement continued. We call on international organizations not to support the unreasonable and provocative actions of Armenia, such as rekindling the conflict. It is necessary to support activities aimed at ensuring a truce, peace, and sustainable development in the region, and encourage activities to create an atmosphere of trust! In this regard, they must protest against the mining of territories, the installation of mine traps by Armenian military units, and give a legal assessment to this," the statement finalized. Armenia spared no efforts to plant land mines on Azerbaijani territories, not only during the 30 years of occupation but also just before days of leaving Azerbaijani lands as envisaged in the trilateral statement in order to cause human casualties. Rarely a day goes by without news of civilians or military personnel being injured or killed as a result of mine explosions in Azerbaijan's liberated lands. Armenia deliberately and constantly planted mines on Azerbaijani territories, in violation of the 1949 Geneva Convention, thereby being a major threat to regional peace, security, and cooperation. Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valeriy Zaluzhny held a telephone conversation with Head of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley, during which the parties discussed issues of meeting the needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. "This evening I had a telephone conversation with Head of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley. We discussed the issues of meeting the needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces in repelling Russian armed aggression," Zaluzhny was quoted by the press center of the General Staff on Facebook on Sunday. The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine thanked "the entire American people and their leaders for their consistent and unwavering support for Ukraine in these difficult times." On Monday, October 3, a Russian aircraft was shot down in Beryslav district of Kherson region, according to the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "On October 3, at noon, in Beryslav district of Kherson region, a unit of the Kherson anti-aircraft missile brigade of the Pivden Air Command shot down a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft," the telegram channel says. The Constitutional Court of Ukraine Insists on the termination of the membership of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation in the World Conference on Constitutional Justice in view of its support for the annexation of the Ukrainian territories. "On Monday, October 3, Acting Chairman of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine, Serhiy Holovaty, sent an appeal to the members of the World Conference on Constitutional Justice (WCCJ) and the participants of the 5th WCCJ Congress with a call to terminate the membership of the Constitutional Court of Russian Federation in this global organization," the court said in a press release on its website. The Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation once again grossly violated the principles on which the WCCJ is based, by approving once again the attempt to annex Ukrainian territories, it said. "On October 2, 2022, the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, in the same manner as it did with regard to the illegal annexation of Ukraine's Crimea by Russia in 2014, officially recognized to be legal Putin's declared annexation of some other parts of Ukraine, in particular Ukraine's Kherson and Zaporizhia regions," Holovaty said in the letter. "On behalf of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine and myself, I appeal to all of you to take all possible measures so that the Russian Constitutional Court, which by its actions officially supports Putin's criminal government and makes decisions contrary to the generally recognized principles of international law, ceases to be a member of the WCCJ," he said. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin welcomed the liberation of Lyman, Donetsk region, which was a key bastion of Russian occupiers in eastern Ukraine, Deutsche Welle said on Sunday. He told reporters at a press conference in Hawaii on Saturday that the Estuary was located on supply lines that the Russian Federation used to transfer its troops and equipment. "Without those routes, it will be more difficult," Austin said. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke by phone with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba and said that the USA will continue to support Ukraine's efforts to regain control over its territory, strengthening its position militarily and diplomatically. In turn, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg noted that Ukraine's liberation of the territory declared annexed by Russian President Vladimir Putin shows Ukraine's ability to fight back against Russian troops. "We have seen that they have been able to take a new town, Lyman, and that demonstrates that the Ukrainians are making progress, are able to push back the Russian forces because of the courage, because of their bravery, their skills, but of course also because of the advanced weapons that the United States and other allies are providing," Stoltenberg said. According to the NATO Secretary General, the best way to resist the annexation of the occupied regions of Ukraine by the Russian Federation is to continue to support the Ukrainian government. Asked about Ukraine's application for accelerated membership in the Western defense alliance, Stoltenberg said "any decision on membership has to be taken by consensus all 30 allies have to agree to make such a decision." Money raised in Czech Republic to buy modernized T-72 tank for AFU, 11,000 people join fundraising Ambassador of Ukraine Residents of the Czech Republic have successfully raised funds for the purchase of a modernized T-72 tank intended for the Ukrainian army. According to Ambassador of Ukraine to the Czech Republic Yevhen Perebyinis, 11,000 people joined the fundraising as part of the "gift for Putin" campaign. "The Czech Republic became the first country where ordinary people bought a tank for the Ukrainian army an upgraded T-72 AVANGER," the diplomat said on Twitter on Monday. According to him, the tank was given the name Tomasz. ""33 million kronor (over $1.3 million) on the initiative of the gift for Putin", more than 11,000 people gathered," Perebyinis summed up. Russian occupation troops launched a missile attack on a medical facility in Kupyansky district of Kharkiv region, at least one person was killed and one wounded, said head of the Regional Military Administration Oleh Synehubov. "Unfortunately, an anesthesiologist was killed, one nurse was injured. Information about the victims is still being clarified. The building is almost completely destroyed from the 1st to the 4th floor. Rescuers and law enforcement agencies are working on the spot," Synehubov wrote on his Telegram channel. Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference based on results of social survey Assessment of damage caused by Russian war crimes in Ukraine On Wednesday, October 5, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference based on the results of a sociological study on the topic "Assessment of damage caused by Russian war crimes in Ukraine", conducted by the Rating Sociological Group in September 2022 by order of the NGO "Center for Assistance to the volunteer movement Volunteer.Org." An initiative within the framework of the project "Urgent EU Support for Civil Society", implemented by ISAR Unity with the financial support of the European Union. The content of the presentation is the sole responsibility of the public organization "Center for Assistance to the volunteer movement Volunteer.Org" and does not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union. Participants include head of the Rating Sociological Group Oleksiy Antypovych; co-founder of the consulting company K&K Group, coordinator of the project Nurnberg-2022 (NGO Volunteer.Org) Oleksandr Kopyl; Director of the Ukrainian Legal Advisory Group, Coalition "Ukraine. Five in the morning" Nadia Volkova; a representative of the National Police of Ukraine (8/5a Reitarska Street). The broadcast of the press conference will be available on the YouTube channel of the Interfax-Ukraine agency. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot. Egypts Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry highlighted the dangers of filling and operating the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in a meeting with the President of the World Water Council (WWC) during the 2022 Cairo Water Week (CWW 2022). Hamed Abdullah, the commander of the Iraqi border guards, expressed his countrys desire to promote cooperation with the Egyptian military production ministry to benefit from its expertise in all manufacturing fields. The United States on Friday dispatched an envoy to Ethiopia to seek an end to renewed fighting, and condemned neighboring Eritrea for re-entering the conflict in the northern region of Tigray. Mike Hammer, the US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, will head this weekend to Ethiopia and "convey that all parties should halt military operations and engage in peace talks," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. "We condemn Eritrea's re-entry into the conflict, the continuing TPLF offensive outside of Tigray and the Ethiopian government's air strikes," she told reporters, referring to the rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front. Fighting resumed last week in the northern region after a five-month lull, dashing hopes of peacefully resolving the nearly two-year war and of ending a humanitarian crisis in which Tigray has suffered widespread hunger. "There is no military solution to the conflict," Jean-Pierre said. "All parties should exercise restraint and we urge de-escalation by all actors, particularly so that there can be a resumption of humanitarian relief and basic services to all parties in need." The State Department said Hammer, a veteran diplomat whose assignment also covers troubled Sudan and Somalia, would travel from Sunday through September 15 in the Horn of Africa. He will meet both Ethiopian and African Union officials as well as political players from elsewhere in the country, it said. Hammer took on the role in June and the following month visited Ethiopia in a bid to help launch peace talks, which never began due to disputes between the government and TPLF even while the ceasefire was holding. The two sides have traded blame for starting the latest round of hostilities. The TPLF, once Ethiopia's dominant force, has said that historic rival Eritrea again sent in forces as part of a major offensive with Ethiopian troops. Eritrea, one of the world's most closed nations with one of its most authoritarian governments, has been accused of heinous violence in the conflict. Amnesty International said that Eritrean forces at the start of the conflict in November 2020 massacred hundreds of civilians in the ancient city of Axum. After months of denial that Eritrean troops had crossed the border, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in March 2021 admitted to their presence and promptly announced their departure. US distance from Ethiopia Abiy won the Nobel Peace Prize for his reconciliation with Eritrea but has fallen out of favor with the United States, a longtime Ethiopian ally which voiced revulsion over the violence in Tigray, where US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has spoken of "ethnic cleansing." President Joe Biden's administration as of January 1 booted Ethiopia out of a key trade agreement that allowed duty-free access, outraging segments of the growing Ethiopian-American community which said the United States was ceding influence to rival powers such as China. Ethiopia's ambassador in Washington, Seleshi Bekele, met Thursday with senior officials including Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and called on the United States to condemn the TPLF, which he said was to blame for breaking the ceasefire. Access to northern Ethiopia is severely restricted and Tigray has been under a communications blackout for over a year. TPLF spokesman Kindeya Gebrehiwot earlier told AFP that a major offensive was coming from Eritrea. Combat had been concentrated around the southeastern border of Tigray, with the rebels pushing into the neighboring Amhara and Afar regions, sending residents fleeing. The fighting so far has not terminated relief efforts, with UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric saying that 17 trucks distributed fertilizer in Tigray this week for farmers in their planting season. Abiy sent troops into Tigray to topple the TPLF in November 2020 in response to what he said were rebel attacks on federal army camps. Search Keywords: Short link: RTHK: Iran's Khamenei blames US, Israel for 'riots' Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday accused arch-foes the United States and Israel of fomenting unrest in the Islamic republic following the death of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini. "I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," he said in his first public comment on the unrest sparked by Amini's death. "The death of the young woman broke our hearts, but what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars," the supreme leader added. Protests have entered their third week since Kurdish Iranian Amini, 22, was pronounced dead on September 16, days after she was detained for allegedly breaching the country's strict dress code. Speaking at a military graduation ceremony, Khamenei said that the "police are obliged to stand up to criminals and ensure the safety of society". "Weakening the police means strengthening the criminals. Those who attack the police leave people defenceless against criminals, thugs and thieves." Iran has repeatedly accused outside forces of stoking the nationwide protests, especially the United States and its allies. On Friday the intelligence ministry said nine foreign nationals including from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland had been arrested. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2022-10-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. By Azernews By Vugar Khalilov Toivo Klaar, EU special representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, has urged the punishment of perpetrators of war crimes against Azerbaijanis, Azernews reports. Today I have been sent several videos apparently showing war crimes committed against Azerbaijanis. Also, these need to be investigated, and if authentic, perpetrators need to be held responsible. The conflict has left deep wounds on both sides and to heal accountability is needed, Klaar wrote on his Twitter account. Previously, Klaar made a similar comment about suspected war crimes against Armenian military personnel featured in a social media video. Another horrible video has emerged of Armenian prisoners of war apparently being executed. If this video is proven to be authentic then this is a war crime that needs to be investigated and the perpetrators punished, he tweeted. Baku described Yerevan's allegations of suspected Azerbaijani armed forces war crimes against Armenian personnel as an example of the hypocrisy of a country that has pursued an aggressive policy for decades, trampled on the fundamental rights of nearly a million people, and committed numerous war crimes against military personnel, as well as civilians. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry underlined that the Azerbaijani Military Prosecutor's Office initiated a comprehensive investigation on September 17 to ascertain if the films, shared on social media, as well as the time and place of recording, and the identities of the military troops seen in them, are genuine or not. The ministry emphasized that since the first Karabakh war (1988-1994), the Armenian armed forces have committed unprecedented massacres not only against Azerbaijani servicemen but also against civilians. In just one night on February 26, 1992, 613 civilians were brutally killed in the town of Khojaly, and no information on the fate of 4,000 Azerbaijanis has been provided yet. In October 2020, Armenia launched missile attacks against civilians in Azerbaijans Ganja, Barda, and Mingachevir cities committing crimes against humanity. The Armenian-planted landmines are posing threat to the lives of people in the region, killing up to 250 persons, most of whom were civilians, since the end of the 44-day war in 2020, the ministry said. We strongly condemn Armenia's attempts to mislead the international community and hide its responsibility by spreading unfounded claims. We demand that Armenia fulfills its international obligations and that those responsible for numerous war crimes be held accountable before the law, the ministry stressed. Egypt has been re-elected as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council for an additional three years (from 2023-25). Egypt was re-elected as a member of the 36-nation governing council after a vote that saw the participation of 193 UN member states at the 41st General Assembly meeting in the body headquarters in Montreal on Saturday Egypt claimed 156 of 193 votes in the election, according to a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The step reflects the appreciation of the ICAO's member states to Egypt as well as its contribution to the field of civil aviation, the foreign ministry added. Minister of Civil Aviation Mohamed Abbas, who participated in the ICAO meeting, asserted that the support of the political leadership in the aviation sector played a major role in boosting the status of Egyptian air transport at the regional and international levels. Created in 1944, ICAO is a specialised agency of the United Nations, which promotes safe and orderly international civil aviation development internationally, setting standards and regulations for aviation safety, security, efficiency, and regularity, as well as for aviation environmental protection. Search Keywords: Short link: Israel is holding nearly 800 Palestinians without trial or charge, the highest number since 2008, an Israeli rights group said Sunday. The group, HaMoked, which regularly gathers figures from Israeli prison authorities, said that 798 Palestinians are currently being held in so-called administrative detention, a practice where the prisoners can be held for months, do not know the charges against them and are not granted access to the evidence against them. The group said the number of those held in administrative detention has risen steadily this year, as Israel conducts nightly arrest raids in the occupied West Bank in response to a spate of attacks against Israelis earlier this year. Israel claims it uses administrative detention to impede attacks and restrain dangerous militants without revealing sensitive intelligence. Rights groups and Palestinians say it is an abusive system that denies freedom without due process, leaving some Palestinians for months or even years behind bars with no evidence against them made accessible. Some resort to life-threatening hunger strikes to draw attention to their detention, which often drives up tensions between Israel and Palestinians. "Administrative detention should be an exceptional measure but Israel makes wholesale use of this detention without trial," said Jessica Montell, HaMoked's executive director. "This has to stop. If Israel cannot bring them to trial, it must release all administrative detainees.'' HaMoked said the figure was a new peak in a growing wave of administrative detentions which began last spring following a series of attacks by Palestinians against Israelis that killed 19 people. Those attacks sparked the Israeli raids that have killed some 100 Palestinians, many of them said to be militants or local youths out to protest the incursion into their cities or towns, but civilians have also died in the violence. Israeli occupation forces says some 1,500 Palestinians have been arrested during that time including those held in administrative detention. It says the raids are necessary to dismantle militant networks and thwart attacks against Israelis. Palestinians say the raids are aimed at maintaining Israel's 55-year military occupation over territories they want for a future state. The last time Israel held as many administrative detainees, in May 2008, also coincided with an increase in Israeli-Palestinian violence. Israel's Shin Bet domestic security service did not respond to a request for comment. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and has since established some 130 settlements there, home to 500,000 settlers. The Palestinians want the territory, along with east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip for their hoped-for independent state. *This article was edited by Ahram Online Search Keywords: Short link: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged the world to act at the upcoming pre-COP27 climate talks in DR Congo against what he called "a life-or-death struggle for our own safety today and our survival tomorrow." Humanity has experience "immense" climate impacts across the world this summer, Guterres told media at the UN headquarters in New York ahead of the Kinshasa talks, which pave the way for COP27, the UN's 27th summit-level gathering on climate change, due to take place in Egypt next month. "A third of Pakistan flooded. Europe's hottest summer in 500 years. The Philippines hammered. The whole of Cuba in black-out. And here, in the United States, Hurricane Ian has delivered a brutal reminder that no country and no economy is immune from the climate crisis," he said. "We know people and nations are suffering now... Failure to act on loss and damage will lead to more loss of trust and more climate damage," the UN chief continued. "This is a moral imperative that cannot be ignored and COP27 must be the place for action on loss and damage." Delegates from over 50 countries are attending the two-day informal talks in Kinshasa, including US climate envoy John Kerry. The event winds up on Wednesday with side discussions. No formal announcements are expected in what is billed as a ground-clearing exercise ahead of the next month's conference, taking place in Sharm el-Sheikh from November 6-18. Greater support from wealthier countries, historically the world's biggest carbon polluters, to their poorer counterparts is expected to dominate the talks. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypts Public Prosecution ordered the release of 50 pretrial detainees on Sunday and Monday, a member of the Presidential Pardon committee announced. Member of the Presidential Pardon Committee and renowned lawyer Tarek El-Awady shared on his Facebook page on Sunday a list of 45 names of pretrial detainees in addition to five other detainees. The detainees were released on Sunday and Monday, he added. In recent months, the Public Prosecution has ordered the release of hundreds of pretrial detainees in groups. In September, authorities released over 100 pretrial detainees, including Ahmed El-Nagdy, a journalist at the Qatar-based Al-Jazeera TV channel, and prominent leftist activist and lawyer Haitham Mohamadein. Since the re-activation of the Presidential Pardon Committee in April and the launch of preparations for the National Political Dialogue in May, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has pardoned many high-profile political activists who had received final sentences. This included Hossam Mones, Yahia Abdel-Hady, Hisham Fouad and others. The committee, which was first formed in 2016, receives the names of prisoners for presidential pardon consideration from various parties and political forces, including the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR), parliaments Human Rights Committee, as well as directly through its own official website. The scope of the work of the reactivated committee has been expanded to include imprisoned debtors. The government and various political forces prepare for the extensive National Political Dialogue that will discuss pressing political, economic and social issues within a few weeks. Search Keywords: Short link: An eight-year-old student died on Monday after she fell off the third floor of her school in Giza, the governorate said in an official statement. Mena Tamar, a student at Sayed Al-Shuhadaa public primary school in Agouza district, succumbed to her injuries shortly after being transferred to a hospital, the statement added. An initial investigation revealed that the student fell "after scaling the school's third floor wall without the teacher noticing," according to the statement. The student did so "after she was asked to bring in her mother to pick her from school," the statement pointed out without providing further details. The school principal, the school's third floor supervisor and the aforementioned teacher were issued a three-day suspension from work by the Giza governor. The incident, which comes during the first week of the 2022/23 academic year, was referred to the Public Prosecution for further investigation. The incident comes only 24 hours after a concrete stair fence collapsed at a preparatory school in Giza governorate, killing a student and injuring 15 others. A two-metre-long section of concrete fence in Al-Motamadiya preparatory school for girls in Kerdasa district collapsed on Sunday after students rushed onto the stairs that led to their classrooms, according to the prosecution, which is currently probing into the incident. Five of the 15 injured students have been discharged from the hospital after receiving medical treatment, announced Health Ministry Spokesperson Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar. The remaining 10 injured students are still in the hospital and receiving the necessary treatment and medical care, Abdel-Ghaffar said, while assuring that they are in "stable" condition and are expected to be released within the next few days. The school year for all public, private, language, and experimental schools, as well as Al-Azhar schools and technical education schools, started on Saturday 1 October. International schools that follow foreign educational systems like the IGCSE, American diploma, and French education system started the academic year on 18 September 2022. Search Keywords: Short link: A Sharqiya criminal court has sought the opinion of Egypt's grand mufti on the preliminary death sentence passed down on Monday on a university student accused of stabbing a female colleague to death. Seeking the opinion of the grand mufti is a necessary procedure before issuing a death sentence as per Egypt's penal code. However, the opinion itself is not binding. The court has set 3 November as the date to issue a preliminary verdict on the defendant. Salma Bahgat, a 20-year-old student who was studying mass communication at Shorouk Academy, was stabbed on 12 August multiple times with a knife by Islam Mohamed, a 22-year-old colleague, according to a prosecution statement. The incident took place in the lobby of a building in the city of Zagazig, the capital of Sharqiya governorate in the Nile Delta. Following the attack, bystanders rushed to the scene of the crime and detained the suspect by closing the gates of the building until police arrived. The prosecution said Mohamed decided to murder Bahgat after she and her relatives had turned down his marriage proposal due to his bizarre mindset [and] bad behaviour. The defendant found out the victims location by deceiving one of her friends, whom she was set to meet in the building where the crime took place, the prosecution noted. The defendant confessed to killing Bahgat in detail during the public prosecutions investigation and before a specialised court. The incident, which stirred public uproar, took place less than two months after 21-year-old student Mohamed Adel killed his fellow student at Mansoura University, Nayera Ashraf, also in broad daylight after she had rejected his advances. In July, a criminal court issued a death penalty against Adel who appealed the ruling before the Court of Cassation. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi on Monday laid a wreath at the Unknown Soldier Memorial to mark the 49th anniversary of the October War victory. He also laid wreaths at the tombs of late presidents Anwar El-Sadat and Gamal Abdel-Nasser, said Presidential Spokesman Bassam Rady. "Military music was played in an authentic military tradition in honour of the martyrs of Egypt," Rady added. The president was accompanied by the country's Minister of Defence and Military Production General Mohamed Zaki and Lieutenant-General Osama Askar, chief of staff of the Armed Forces. The 1973 Arab-Israeli War, known in Egypt as the 6 October War, was fought by a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria against Israel. The war eventually led to Israeli forces withdrawing from the Sinai Peninsula on 25 April 1982 after 15 years of occupation, based on a peace treaty signed between Egypt and Israel in 1979. The sixth of October, which fall this year on Thursday, is a paid holiday for the public and private sectors in Egypt in observation of the victory. Search Keywords: Short link: Nine people, including senior regional officials, were killed in twin car bomb attacks claimed by the Islamist group Al-Shabaab in Beledweyne in central Somalia on Monday, police said. "The initial information we have received confirms the death of nine people" including state ministers and commissioners, said Mohamed Moalim Ali, a local police commander. At least 10 others were injured in "suicide attacks" when two cars loaded with explosives were detonated about five minutes apart outside district headquarters in Beledweyne, he added. Among the dead was the state's health minister and a deputy district commissioner, police said. Beledweyne lies about 300 kilometres (200 miles) north of Somalia's capital Mogadishu. Witnesses described a smaller blast followed by a massive second explosion. "The explosion was huge, and it destroyed most buildings" nearby, said Mohamud Addow, who witnessed the attack. "I saw several people rushed to hospital and some dead bodies... some were unrecognisable." Al-Shabaab, a militant group allied to Al-Qaeda that has been fighting Somalia's government for 15 years, claimed responsibility for the attack. Search Keywords: Short link: The Israeli military shot and killed two Palestinians during a raid in the occupied West Bank early Monday, Palestinian officials said. The Israeli occupation army alleged that the men tried to ram their car into soldiers, a claim that could not be independently verified. Rights group often accuse Israeli troops of using excessive force against Palestinians, who live under a 55-year military occupation with no end in sight. Israel says it follows strict rules of engagement and opens fire in life-threatening situations. The military said soldiers were attempting to arrest a suspect in the Jalazone refugee camp near the city of Ramallah when the two Palestinians allegedly attempted to run over soldiers with their car. The soldiers opened fire on the car, the occupation army said. The Palestinian Civil Affairs Authority, which coordinates on civilian issues with Israeli occupation authority, said the military shot and killed the two men. Their identities were not immediately known. Israel has been carrying out nightly arrest raids in the West Bank since the spring, when a spate of Palestinian attacks against Israelis killed 19 people. Israel says its operations are aimed at dismantling militant infrastructure and preventing future attacks. The Palestinians see the nightly incursions into their cities, villages and towns as Israel's way of deepening its occupation of lands they want for their hoped-for state. The Israeli raids have killed some 100 Palestinians, making this year the deadliest since 2016. Most of those killed are said by Israel to have been militants but local youths protesting the incursions as well as some civilians have also been killed in the violence. Hundreds have been rounded up, with many placed in so-called administrative detention, which allows Israel to hold them without trial or charge. **This story was wedited by Ahram Online Search Keywords: Short link: Turkey's foreign minister signed a deal in Libya's capital Monday allowing for oil and gas exploration in Libyan waters, three years after a maritime border deal that angered European nations. "We've signed a Memorandum of Understanding on exploration for hydrocarbons in Libya's territorial waters and on Libyan soil, by mixed Turkish-Libyan companies," Mevlut Cavusoglu said at a press conference in Tripoli. The deal follows an agreement Turkey signed with authorities in Tripoli in 2019, which demarcated the countries' shared maritime borders but sparked anger in Greece and Cyprus. Cavusoglu however stressed on Monday that the new accord was between "two sovereign countries, it's win-win for both, and other countries have no right to interfere". Najla al-Mangoush, foreign minister in Libya's Government of National Unity, said the new deal was "important", especially in light of "the Ukrainian crisis and its repercussions" for energy markets. Turkey had signed a controversial security agreement in November 2019 with Libya's UN-recognised government, claiming extensive, potentially gas-rich areas of the Mediterranean for itself. The deal came at the height of a year-long battle between rival governments vying for control of the capital. Turkey continues to play a major role in Libya's west, where rival governments are again struggling for control two years after the end of the last major conflict. Cavusoglu was accompanied in Tripoli by a high-level delegation also including Turkey's energy, defence and trade ministers. Libya has been mired in violence for more than a decade since the 2011 toppling of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in a NATO-backed uprising. Dozens of armed groups have been struggling for influence, backed by multiple foreign powers. Since March, a government appointed by Libya's eastern-based parliament has been attempting to take office in Tripoli, but has so far failed. Search Keywords: Short link: Poland's foreign minister on Monday signed an official note to Germany requesting the payment of some $1.3 trillion in reparations for the damage incurred by occupying Nazi Germans during World War II. Zbigniew Rau said the note will be handed to Germany's Foreign Ministry. The signing comes on the eve of Rau's meeting in Warsaw with Germany Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, who is attending a security conference. Rau said the note expresses his view that the two sides should take action "without delay'' to address the effects of Germany's 1939-45 occupation in a "lasting and complex, legally binding as well as material way.'' He said that would include German reparations as well as solving the issue of looted artworks and archives. Poland's right-wing government insists that Poland is owed reparations for extensive war damage, while Berlin says it has paid compensation to the affected countries, including Poland, and considers the matter closed. On the war's 83rd anniversary, Sept. 1, Poland's government presented an extensive report on the damages, estimating it at the $1.3 trillion figure. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt has nine business incubators offering 670 business opportunities to start-up owners, Minister of Planning and Economic Development Hala El-Said said on Thursday during her participation in the event titled The Power of Scaleups hosted by Endeavor Egypt. Innovation is the core of human development, asserted El-Said, while highlighting how times of crises, like climate change, allow for untapped potential to shine and bring out the most revolutionary innovations. Proactive pioneering initiatives are the cornerstone of such innovation and lead social and economic development, job creation and thus poverty reduction, she asserted. El-Said emphasised the importance of supporting innovators by providing them with a number of supportive measures, in order to motivate young people to create their own jobs away from traditional paths. Climate Change New advanced technologies are the only way in which the world can hope to reduce half the emissions it aims to by 2050, El-Said said. She added that pioneering entrepreneurial initiatives are crucial for managing the challenges of climate change and without them, sustainability and green development would be impossible. The Egyptian government has taken large strides towards backing the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the country by establishing incubators and providing startups with the necessary funding, stated El-Said, adding that it is the responsibility of policy makers to create an environment suitable for young pioneers to unlock their full potential. The Pioneers 2030 project was established for this purpose in which students can turn their idea into reality, El-Said noted. The project has been acknowledged by the UNs Department of Economic and Social Affairs, which said that nine business incubators have led to the creation of close to 670 opportunities and the provision of more than 6,500 hours of training Moreover, El-Said noted that the ministry launched the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects in cooperation with Mahmoud Mohieldin, the UN high level climate champion of Egypt, which focuses on climate action through technological empowerment and raising awareness of climate issues at the national level Egypt is a model place for young entrepreneurs to develop their ideas, said the minister. Egypt has a population of more than 100 million citizens most of which are young people and as a result, innovations in science, technology and research can arise from both small projects and large companies, according to El-Said. Hence, entrepreneurs are pivotal to alleviating the humanitarian threats faced by the world. Search Keywords: Short link: In less than one month, Israel will hold its fifth national elections in four years. The Israeli press is filled with endless commentary, reports of polls showing whos up and whos down, early finger-pointing assessing blame, and, through it all, a pervasive sense of gloom acknowledging that whatever the vote tally, the future will be no brighter or more certain than the present. Whats become crystal clear is that this election, like those that preceded it, is mainly about one big concern: Will Benjamin Netanyahu return as the head of government? There are other issues, to be sure, like whether the hardline ultra-religious parties will hold sway over a range of policies that give their sect privileges in the implementation of laws that impact their followers and the rights of Jews who are not ultra-Orthodox, or whether Netanyahu will be held accountable in the criminal proceedings against him that have been dragging on in court awaiting the outcome of the election. But for a majority of Israeli voters and, it appears, for US policymakers, the central issue being decided on November 1, 2022, is: Will the future of Israel be one with or without Netanyahu? As the weekly polls demonstrate, the outcome of this election will be as muddy as the last four. The coalition of parties supporting Netanyahu may reach the magic number of 61 Knesset seats (a simple majority) or they may secure only 59 or 60 seats bringing paralysis and calls for a sixth election. There are no current polls that give a clear 61 seats to the not-Netanyahu crowd. The only way that either the with or without bloc could rise comfortably above 61 would be with the inclusion of an Arab party. That, however, appears unlikely. Having denounced the current Change government for including a conservative Arab party in its coalition (despite having courted them himself), its unlikely that Netanyahu would include them now. The same holds true for the anti-Netanyahu coalition, with one of the major parties in that camp having expressed deep reservations about serving in another coalition government that was dependent on Arab votes. As a result, even if the Netanyahu coalition receives 59 seats and the opposition wins just 56 seats and is in a position to win control of government with even the passive support of an Arab party, its likely that such a government will be relentlessly hounded by Netanyahu as a minority (meaning that it was made up of a minority of Jews) governmentin the same way that he and Ariel Sharon hounded the government of Yitzhak Rabin in the 1990s. In the lead-up to the election there was considerable jockeyingsplitting and combining that took place amongst the parties on both the left and right. Once seen as a rising star on the right, Ayelet Shaked, formed a new party and immediately plummeted into oblivion. Further to the right, the ultra-nationalist, racist Kahanist party (that calls for the exclusion of both Palestinian citizens of Israel and the West Bank) has been catapulted into a dominant role in the Netanyahu camp and is now expected to win as many as 12 seats. On the Arab side, splits in the once-unified Joint Arab List that won 15 seats a few years back, will likely reduce the number of seats Arabs will win to around 8largely because of Arab voters having lost confidence in the Israeli system. It has been especially irritating to read Israeli commentators point to this decline in Arab clout as a reason Netanyahu may win the election. A clear example of blaming the victims. In an article I wrote before the last Israeli election, just 19 months ago, I expressed the concern that ousting Netanyahu would not only fail to improve Palestinian lives and rights, but also might make them worse for two reasons. In the first place, I feared that because it was based on a fragile coalition, the Change government would feel the need to protect its right flank by demonstrating both toughness vis-a-vis Palestinians and support for the settlement enterprise. At the same time, precisely because it was an anti-Netanyahu coalition that included parties from the center and right and even a conservative Arab party, the Change government would be heralded by liberals in the US who would give it license to pursue whatever policies it needed to remain in power. This is exactly what happened. The Change government followed the very same policies as the one that preceded it. In some cases, they were worse. Settlements grew and expanded; land confiscations continued, as did the release of state lands for the exclusive use of settlers; repression intensified, including the use of deadly force and mass arrests; provocations by settlers in Jerusalem and the West Bank were largely met with a blind eye; and policies designed to weaken the Palestinian Authority continued to be standard operating procedure. If anything changed, it was the silence of the US in response to these Change government behaviors. It appears that the guiding principle of US policy toward the Israeli-Palestinian arena has been pathetically reduced to doing nothing that will damage the chances of the anti-Netanyahu forces staying in power and now winning in November with Palestinians paying a steep price in life and liberty. Whats most troubling is that if Netanyahu had been the head of government, the US might have been inclined to publicly criticize his actions. But the Change crowd received nary a slap on the wrist, except for an occasional expression of US concern. So here we are a year and a half later, with yet another Israeli election with the same concerns and, most likely, the same outcome. The only big issue, as before, will be whether Netanyahu is returned as the head of government. Precisely because it may be the only way to rip off the veneer of Change and force the US liberal establishment to confront the horrifying reality of Israeli policies toward Palestinians and act against them, Im forced to hope for a Netanyahu win. James Zogby is the President of Arab American Institute in Washington DC. Search Keywords: Short link: Sweden has sent a vessel capable of "advanced diving missions'' to the Baltic Sea area where ruptured undersea pipelines had leaked natural gas for days, the Swedish navy said Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of sabotaging Russia-built natural gas pipelines under the Baltic Sea to Germany, a charge vehemently denied by the United States and its allies, who noted that Russia has been blackmailing Europe with reduced gas supplies for months. Last week, undersea blasts damaged the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines off southern Sweden and Denmark and have led to huge methane leaks, with those governments saying that several hundred pounds of explosives was involved. The emissions leaks occurred in international waters. Capt. Jimmie Adamsson, a spokesman for the Swedish navy, told The Associated Press that a submarine rescue ship had been sent to the site of the leaks off Sweden and was supporting the Swedish coast guard, which is in charge of the work. It was unclear when anyone or anything would be able to go down to the pipelines, either divers or a submarine. The coast guard said one of its vessels, Amfritrite, was at the site to monitor nearby sea traffic. It added that bad weather is expected, which will complicate the situation. Over the weekend, authorities in Denmark said the Nord Stream 1 and 2 natural gas pipelines had stopped leaking. However, the Swedish coast guard said one of its planes had reported that the smaller leak over Nord Stream 2 "has instead increased somewhat again," was about 30 meters (100 feet) in diameter and it may take ''some time" before it stops. The coast guard offered no explanation as to why the leak had increased. The other one, over Nord Stream 1, has stopped, it said. Danish authorities were monitoring the two leaks east of the Danish Baltic Sea island of Bornholm, above Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2, with the frigate Absalon, the environmental ship Gunnar Thorson, and a military helicopter. Sweden's prosecuting authority and the Swedish Security Services are heading an investigation, while Copenhagen police were in charge of an inquiry in Denmark. A joint international investigation team from Denmark, Germany and Sweden, among others, was also being set up. The U.N. Security Council held an emergency meeting Friday on the pipelines attacks and Norwegian researchers published a map projecting that a huge plume of methane from the damaged pipelines will travel over large swaths of the Nordic region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Monday noted that ''unfortunately, both a present and a future are emerging, which are more gloomy than we are used to. Authoritarian forces are gaining ground, and the international community is in turmoil.'' "We got a frightening taste of it last week with the leaks on Nord Stream 1 and 2. It was surprising and worrying,'' she said. In Norway, members of a voluntary military unit, the Home Guard, were posted outside several petroleum facilities , following a request from the police, to prevent "unwanted incidents.'' The unit is to guard "critical civil and military infrastructure.'' Search Keywords: Short link: Meloni's address to farmers and producers at an agricultural fair in Milan came as Russia's Gazprom utility informed gas giant ENI that no natural gas would be delivered to Italy on Saturday, further tightening supplies as Moscow seeks to pressure Europe in its war against Ukraine. Meloni has strongly backed Ukraine, and one of her first post-victory tweets was in response to a congratulatory note from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. ``You know that you can count on our loyal support for the cause of freedom of Ukrainian people!'' she wrote on Sept. 27. Her outing Saturday to the Coldiretti farm lobby fair marked her emergence from a week of closed-door meetings with allies and the outgoing government following the Sept. 25 vote that is poised to give Italy its first far-right-led government since World War II. Much of those talks concerned high energy costs and the EU's response after Germany announced it would spend up to 200 billion euros ($195 billion) helping consumers and businesses cope while refusing to back a European price cap on gas, as Italy and other countries have sought. Meloni said if her government takes a similar action, it shouldn't be seen as some populist, nationalist reaction but rather a ``lucid'' strategy to ``defend national interests to arrive at common solutions.'' ``Italy's posture must return to start off with the defense of its national interests to find common solutions,'' Meloni told the farmers in Milan. Since invading Ukraine in February, Russia has cut back supplies of natural gas sent to Europe to heat homes, generate electricity and run factories. On Saturday, Gazprom informed ENI that it could not confirm any gas deliveries Saturday via the pipeline through Austria, ENI reported. Italian news reports said the cutoff wouldn't have a significant impact, given that Italy has greatly reduced its reliance on Russian gas since the war began. Meloni vowed to protect Italian industry and agriculture from the effects of rising energy prices, as well as the residual effects of the coronavirus pandemic and a record heat wave this summer that destroyed billions in crops. Meloni's party, which has its roots in a neo-fascist movement, is expected to be the largest party in a center-right Italian coalition government along with the right-wing League party of Matteo Salvini and the center-right Forza Italia of ex-Premier Silvio Berlusconi. Meloni, who would be the first woman to serve as Italy's premier, told the farmers a key priority was to protect the ``Made in Italy'' agricultural brand and its supply chain to reduce dependence on imports, while also keeping government interference to a minimum. ``We said that our compass would be a very simple concept: Don't disturb those who want to produce, don't disturb those who want to create wealth, don't disturb those who produce work, don't disturb those who want to hire,'' she said of her pro-industry stance. Before arriving at the Coldiretti forum, Meloni called on Berlusconi at his Arcore estate outside Milan, for their first post-election meeting. A joint statement said the meeting took place ``in a climate of great collaboration and unity of intent,'' especially to confront high energy prices. Italy has spent 60 billion euros since last year to ease the pain of higher energy prices for households and industry. But Coldiretti says that aid to farmers has been mostly tax credits and not direct help with electricity bills, which have gone up 500% since last year, or fertilizer costs, which are up 170%. The outgoing government of Premier Mario Draghi has refused to borrow more money for a deeper aid package, citing Italy's high debt level. Italy has pressed for a European price cap on Russian natural gas but so far has been unable to persuade the rest of the EU's 27 nations to go along. "With the finalisation of negotiations between Iran and the United States to release the prisoners of both countries, $7 billion of Iran's blocked resources will be released," the state news agency IRNA said. Billions of dollars in Iranian funds have been frozen in a number of countries -- notably China, South Korea and Japan -- since the US reimposed biting sanctions on the Islamic republic in 2018 after unilaterally withdrawing from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Tehran has accused Seoul of holding $7 billion of its funds "hostage", repeatedly calling on South Korean authorities to release it. IRNA on Sunday said that "Washington is pursuing at the same time the release of its citizens detained in Tehran and the release of Iranian funds in South Korea". The development comes as on-off talks have been underway since April 2021 to revive the 2015 deal that gave Iran much-needed sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. Iran has repeatedly called for the lifting of sanctions, as well as guarantees that the United States will not again pull out of a revived deal. Baquer Namazi is a former UNICEF official who was detained in February 2016 when he went to Iran to press for the release of his son Siamak, who had been arrested in October of the previous year. Both were convicted of espionage in October 2016 and sentenced to 10 years in prison. The father was released on medical leave in 2018 and had been serving his sentence under house arrest. Prime Minister Yair Lapid said the proposal was delivered over the weekend to both Israel and Lebanon. While he said it was still being studied, he said the plan would strengthen Israel's northern areas near the Lebanese border, allow Israel to produce additional natural gas and deliver new revenues to the national coffers. ``This is a deal that strengthens Israel's security and Israel's economy,'' Lapid told his Cabinet. He also said Israel would not oppose the development of ``an additional Lebanese gas field'' straddling the maritime border, as long as Israel receives ``the share we deserve.'' He said this would weaken Lebanon's dependence on Iran, restrain the Hezbollah militant group and promote regional stability. He said the deal was being reviewed by legal and defense officials before it is to be voted upon by the government. Israeli media said a vote could take place Thursday. On Saturday, the proposal was also delivered to Lebanese leaders. Lebanon and Israel have been officially at war since Israel's creation in 1948 and both countries claim some 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea. Amos Hochstein, a senior adviser for energy security at the U.S. State Department who has been mediating between the two neighbors, last visited Beirut in September, where he expressed optimism after meeting with Lebanon's leaders. Lebanon's parliament speaker, Nabi Berri, said in an interview with the London-based Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper Saturday the proposal ``in principle meets the Lebanese demands.'' Lebanon hopes to unleash offshore oil and gas production as it grapples with the worst economic crisis in its modern history, plunging three-quarters of its population into poverty. A Lebanese official who attended the talks last month told The Associated Press that the proposal put forward by the U.S. envoy gives Lebanon the right to the Qana field, located partially in Israel's domain. A part of it stretches deep into a disputed area. The official added that the main point now is how to draw the demarcation line in a way that stretches south of Qana. Lapid's comments appeared to be a reference to the emerging agreement over Qana. Israel set up a gas rig at its designated location at the Karish field. Israel says the field is part of its U.N.-recognized exclusive economic zone, while Lebanon insists Karish is in a disputed area. In July, the Israeli military shot down three unarmed drones belonging to Lebanon's Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah flying over the Karish field. Hezbollah's leader has issued warnings to Israel over the maritime dispute, saying that ``any arm'' that reaches out to steal Lebanon's wealth ``will be cut off.'' The heavily armed group, which has fought several wars with Israel, has repeatedly said in the past that it would use its weapons to protect Lebanon's economic rights. Hezbollah officials have however said they would endorse a deal reached between Lebanon's government and Israel. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in a speech Saturday echoed similar sentiments to Lebanon's top political leaders about Hochstein's proposal and reasserted that the Iran-backed party will back the Lebanese political leadership's position. ``God willing, if it reaches the desired and best result, it would be the result of national unity, cooperation, and solidarity,'' he said. Meloni thanked President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi in a reply to a message posted by the Egyptian presidency on Twitter yesterday in which El-Sisi congratulated the country's first-ever woman prime minister on her party's victory in the general elections last week. The Brothers of Italy Party will lead a right, centre-right coalition government with the League and Forza Italia parties after winning first place in the snap elections last Sunday with 26 percent of the vote. I look forward to working with [Meloni] within the framework of the solid partnership between Egypt and Italy to push our bilateral relations to broader horizons in all fields, in line with the deep-rooted history and civilisations of the two countries and for the benefit of their two peoples and humanity, El-Sisi said. Egypt and Italy enjoy strong relationships on the political and economic levels. Italy is one of Egypt's largest trade partners in the European Union. In 2021, the trade volume between the two countries rose by 29 percent to reach $5.8 billion, up from $4.5 billion in the previous year. Egypts exports to Italy rose by 91.4 percent in 2021, bringing in nearly $2.8 billion, up from $1.5 billion in 2020. Italian investments in Egypt also rose by 40.3 percent from $320 million during the last quarter of FY 2020/2021 to reach $448.8 million during the first quarter of FY 2021/2022. The two countries are also members of the Cairo-based East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF), which was formed in 2019 to establish a regional gas market in the Eastern Mediterranean and enhance trade relations between eight member states. In 2015, the Italian energy giant Eni helped Egypt discover the Zohr natural gas field in its Mediterranean waters, catapulting the country to becoming a major producer of the alternative energy source. The foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan have held talks in Geneva on a future peace treaty, officials in Baku and Yerevan said Monday, following recent deadly clashes between the arch foes. Last month, at least 286 people were killed from both sides before a US-brokered truce ended the worst clashes since the Caucasus neighbours' 2020 war. Baku and Yerevan fought two wars -- in 2020 and in the 1990s -- over the contested region of Nagorno-Karabakh, an Armenian-populated enclave of Azerbaijan. Armenia's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov met on Sunday in Geneva to begin "drafting the text of the peace treaty," the foreign ministry in Baku said Monday. It said the talks followed up the EU-mediated meeting on August 31 in Brussels between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Azerbaijan called for "full withdrawal of the Armenian armed units from the territories of Azerbaijan, the opening of transport and communication lines," the ministry said in a statement. Armenia's foreign ministry said "The parties exchanged ideas on the peace treaty, ensuring the rights and security guarantees of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh." It reaffirmed its demands of Azerbaijani troops' "withdrawal from the sovereign territory of Armenia," release of POWs and "the introduction of international mechanisms for controlling the situation on the border." The two foreign ministers last met for talks mediated by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on September 20 in New York. The six-week war in 2020 claimed the lives of more than 6,500 troops from both sides and ended with a Russian-brokered ceasefire. Under the deal, Armenia ceded swathes of territory it had controlled for decades, and Moscow deployed about 2,000 Russian peacekeepers to oversee the fragile truce. With Moscow increasingly isolated on the world stage following its February invasion of Ukraine, the United States and the European Union have taken a leading role in mediating the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalisation process. When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, ethnic Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan. The ensuing conflict claimed around 30,000 lives. Search Keywords: Short link: Leading Kuwaiti global logistics provider Agility will invest $60 million to build two 100,000-square-metre customs and logistics centres in Egypt - one in the industrial zone in Ain Sokhna and the other in Port Said. This was part of an agreement signed between the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone) and Agility on the sidelines of the Egyptian-Kuwaiti Business Forum that was held in Cairo. The signing ceremony was attended by Walid Gamal El-Din, Chairman of the SCZone, and Tarek Sultan, Vice Chairman of Agility. According to the agreement, Agility will develop and operate logistics service centres and customs facilities located on the Mediterranean Sea. Agility will work with SCZone to implement its strategic vision, especially in the areas of services and logistical activities. Agility will also support the industrial zones by establishing a technical and logistical arm that will automate customs processes and operations in the SCZone. Gamal El-Din said that the signing of this contract comes as part of the Suez Canal Authoritys strategic plan 2020/2025 to create a strong investment environment and job opportunities through integrated and sustainable economic growth. "This agreement is in line with the countrys policies aiming to develop customs clearance services through an integrated and automated system that increases the overall efficiency of customs operations, reduces the accumulation of shipments and goods, and provides the best services possible to investors. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly met on Monday with 45 Kuwaiti businessmen, economists, and bank managers. The meeting was held at the headquarters of the Egyptian General Authorities for Investment office. In the meeting, Madbouly affirmed Egypts desire to increase Kuwaiti investments in the country. He added that any long or medium-term investment will begin reaping benefits as the global economy recovers. Madbouly said that the government has an investment plan set to include a large number of projects in all fields. He also stressed the importance of enhancing areas of trade exchange between the two countries. Kuwaiti investments in Egypt exceed $15 billion, and the volume of trade exchange is approximately $5 billion, according to the Minister of Finance Mohammed Maait. Maait further stated that there are currently 105 agreements in multiple sectors/fields. He said that Egypt is looking forward to increasing Kuwaiti investments. He also acknowledged that Kuwait is Egypt's third largest Arab trade partner, as well as its fourth largest global trade partner. Maait affirmed Egypts intention to expand and advance its private sector in all aspects of business. Search Keywords: Short link: The death toll from Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the United States, soared above 40 Saturday, as President Joe Biden heads to Florida later in the week to survey the devastation. Shocked Florida communities were only just beginning to face the full scale of the destruction, with rescuers still searching for survivors in submerged neighborhoods and along the state's southwest coast. Homes, restaurants and businesses were ripped apart when Ian roared ashore as a powerful Category 4 hurricane on Wednesday. The confirmed number of storm-related deaths rose to 44 statewide, the Florida Medical Examiners Commission said late Saturday, but reports of additional fatalities were still emerging county by county -- pointing to a far higher final toll. Hard-hit Lee County alone recorded 35 deaths, according to its sheriff, while U.S. media including NBC and CBS tallied more than 70 deaths either directly or indirectly related to the storm. In the coastal state of North Carolina, the governor's office confirmed four deaths related to Ian there. Biden and his wife, Jill, will visit Florida on Wednesday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre tweeted, but the couple will first head to Puerto Rico on Monday to survey the destruction from a different storm, Hurricane Fiona, which struck the U.S. territory last month. In Florida's Lee County on Saturday, rescuers and ordinary citizens in boats were still saving the last trapped inhabitants of the small island of Matlacha. Debris, abandoned vehicles and downed trees littered the pummeled hamlet's main street and surroundings that are dotted by colorful wooden houses with corrugated roofs. The community, home to about 800 people, was cut off from the mainland following damage to two bridges, and those who fled early were only just beginning to return home to survey the destruction. Sitting in the shadow of a deserted Matlacha house, Chip Farrar told AFP that "nobody's telling us what to do, nobody's telling us where to go." "The evacuation orders came in very late," the 43-year-old said. "But most people that are still here wouldn't have left anyway. It's a very blue-collar place. And most people don't have anywhere to go, which is the biggest issue." Sixteen migrants were missing from a boat that sank during the hurricane, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Two people were found dead, and nine others rescued, including four Cubans who swam to shore in the Florida Keys. More than 900,000 customers remained without power in Florida on Saturday night, hampering efforts by those who evacuated to return to their homes to take stock of what they lost. In Fort Myers Beach, a town on the Gulf of Mexico coast which took the brunt of the storm, Pete Belinda said his home was "just flipped upside down, soaking wet, full of mud." Ian barreled over Florida and into the Atlantic Ocean before making U.S. landfall again, this time on the South Carolina coast Friday as a Category 1 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 140 kph.It was later downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, and it was dissipating over Virginia late Saturday. More than 45,000 people remained without power across North Carolina and Virginia, tracking website poweroutage.us said Saturday. CoreLogic, a firm that specializes in property analysis, said wind-related losses for residential and commercial properties in Florida could cost insurers up to $32 billion, while flooding losses could reach $15 billion. "This is the costliest Florida storm since Hurricane Andrew made landfall in 1992," CoreLogic's Tom Larsen said. KYODO NEWS - Oct 3, 2022 - 13:54 | All, Japan, Coronavirus The Japanese government has selected 17 projects led by companies and universities to support manufacturing of vaccines when a pandemic breaks out, the industry minister announced Monday. The government will offer subsidies of a total to 226.5 billion yen ($1.6 billion) to entities including pharmaceutical firm Daiichi Sankyo Co. and Hiroshima University to introduce or renovate facilities needed for vaccine production, according to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The entities, selected Friday, will produce biopharmaceuticals during normal times and switch to manufacture vaccines and materials needed for their production during an outbreak of an infectious disease. "We will build the foundation and footholds to secure vaccine supply domestically," industry minister Yasutoshi Nishimura told reporters. The move came after the coronavirus pandemic highlighted issues affecting vaccine development and production in the country, as it depended on overseas to procure materials and other resources. The government earmarked 227.4 billion yen in a supplementary budget for fiscal 2021 for the subsidy program and solicited applications from March to May this year. Related coverage: Japan begins giving Omicron booster shots to stem 7th COVID wave Takeda apparently to become 1st Japan's firm to sell vaccine abroad Japan grants 1st payment for death related to COVID vaccination KYODO NEWS - Oct 5, 2022 - 00:15 | All, Japan, World North Korea on Tuesday fired a ballistic missile over the Japanese archipelago for the first time in five years, with the projectile reaching the longest distance ever for a missile launched by Pyongyang. Japan's Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters that North Korea's missile flew 4,600 kilometers -- putting it within reach of the U.S. territory of Guam, where key military bases are located -- at an altitude of 1,000 km. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held phone talks with U.S. President Joe Biden and agreed to step up the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance in the wake of the missile test. Kishida said after phone talks with Biden that the two leaders "strongly condemned" that the launch posed a grave challenge to peace and the stability of the international community. White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said in a statement that according to a U.S. assessment, North Korea launched a "long-range" missile. Tokyo estimates it to be of intermediate range or greater. Hamada said the missile flew over Japan for around one minute and landed outside the country's exclusive economic zone some 3,200 km east of the nation in the Pacific Ocean, adding there were no reports of damage to aircraft or ships. The missile could have been a Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile, which Pyongyang has fired four times in the past, Hamada said. It is the seventh time North Korea has launched a missile over Japan. The last occasion was in September 2017. Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno called North Korea's action an "imminent threat" to the region and the international community. Matsuno warned North Korea could engage in additional provocative actions, including its seventh nuclear test and first since September 2017. Tokyo lodged a protest with Pyongyang over the missile launch through the embassy in Beijing, said Matsuno, the top government spokesman, adding that Japan did not try to destroy the projectile as damage to the country was not expected. Kishida, who marked the first anniversary of taking office on Tuesday, said Japan "strongly protests" against the latest missile launch, which he called "outrageous." North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged in September that the country will never give up its nuclear weapons, asserting that the United States is aiming to bring about the collapse of the Pyongyang regime, state-run media reported. Earlier Tuesday, the Japanese government issued an alert urging residents of the nation's northernmost main island of Hokkaido and the northeastern prefecture of Aomori to remain inside buildings. Photo shows a screen in which the Japanese government's J-Alert emergency system warns Hokkaido and Aomori Prefecture of a missile having passed. (Kyodo) Matsuno told a press conference in the morning that the missile was fired at 7:22 a.m. and is believed to have splashed down in the Pacific Ocean outside Japan's EEZ around 7:44 a.m. The missile's presence in Japanese airspace caused disruptions at airports, with All Nippon Airways Co. and Japan Airlines Co. reporting that in response to a government J-Alert, staff working on the tarmac at some airports in Hokkaido and Tohoku temporarily evacuated indoors. The takeoff of a plane departing from Aomori airport for Narita airport near Tokyo was delayed, while shinkansen bullet train services in Tohoku and Hokkaido were briefly suspended. Senior Japanese, U.S. and South Korean officials spoke over the phone and lambasted North Korea's missile launch as a "clear and serious challenge" to the international community. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said he agreed with his U.S. counterpart Antony Blinken during a phone call to "closely cooperate toward the complete denuclearization of North Korea." Later in the day, Hayashi also held phone talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, promising to maintain close bilateral and trilateral collaboration involving the United States, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said. In Tokyo, Hamada met with visiting U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm. John Aquilino. They strongly condemned North Korea's missile launch while reaffirming the importance of the Japan-U.S. alliance. Washington condemned Pyongyang's move as "dangerous and reckless," Watson said, adding it showed North Korea's "blatant disregard" for U.N. Security Council resolutions. The United States will "resolutely" respond to the growing threats posed by North Korea, and its defense commitments to its key allies Japan and South Korea are "ironclad," Daniel Kritenbrink, the State Department's top diplomat for East Asia, told an online think tank event on Monday. Related coverage: U.S. vows resolute response to North Korea threats after missile test The South Korean military said North Korea fired a medium-range ballistic missile eastward from Mupyong-ri in the northern province of Jagang. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Tuesday called North Korea's missile firing a "reckless" provocation and said Pyongyang will "face a decisive response" from Seoul and its allies. The Chinese Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, refrained from criticizing the missile launch, saying in a statement that issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula should be resolved through dialogue. Tuesday's missile launch was North Korea's fifth in 10 days. It previously fired missiles on Saturday in an apparent protest against joint naval drills held last week involving the United States and South Korea. Since the start of this year, Pyongyang has repeatedly conducted ballistic missile tests in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions after a hiatus of almost four months, apparently due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the nation. Pyongyang has also been stepping up military provocations after U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris' trip to South Korea, during which she visited the Demilitarized Zone bordering the two Koreas. Related coverage: North Korea conducts 4th round of missile tests in 1 week, its most ever N. Korea fires 2 ballistic missiles into Sea of Japan North Korea fires 2 short-range ballistic missiles KYODO NEWS - Oct 3, 2022 - 18:51 | All, World, Japan Japan is planning to reopen its embassy in Kyiv as early as by the end of October, more than seven months after a temporary closure following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, diplomatic sources said Monday. As other Group of Seven industrialized countries have already resumed diplomatic operations in Ukraine, Japan is set to finalize the decision in light of the improved security situation in the Ukrainian capital, according to the sources. The restart of the Japanese Embassy would show unity among the G-7, which has tried to put pressure on Russia by implementing severe economic sanctions on Moscow over its prolonged war in Ukraine, the sources said. Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told a press conference on Monday that the resumption of the embassy is "vital for close communication between Japan and Ukraine," adding Japan will take the issue into "comprehensive consideration." In early March, Japan shut down its embassy in Ukraine's capital, and its staff members and operations were transferred to a temporary liaison office set up in the western city of Lviv amid a rapid escalation of attacks by Russia. But Japanese Embassy personnel were eventually forced to leave Lviv and completely move out of the country later that month, as Russia's aggression intensified. Since then, the government of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has supported Japanese citizens living in Ukraine, mainly from the Japanese Embassy in Warsaw and its liaison office in the southeastern Polish city of Rzeszow. Kishida met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in New York late last month on the fringes of a U.N. General Assembly meeting. In a social media post, Shmyhal quoted Kishida as saying Japan would reopen its embassy in Kyiv without referring to a specific time. The other G-7 nations -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the United States -- reopened their embassies in Kyiv between April and May. VIENTIANE, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Lao Ministry of Health is urging Laotians to continue to comply with COVID-19 control measures, even though the number of daily new infections has fallen significantly. The number of new infections reported in one day has dropped to the single figure in Laos since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. On Monday only four new cases were reported. Phonepaseuth Ounaphom, director general of the Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion under the Lao Ministry of Health, told a press conference in Vientiane on Monday that this decline did not mean that the virus had disappeared and that all measures relating to COVID-19 prevention and control should continue to be practiced. "As the number of new infections reported in neighboring countries remains high, we should take precautions, especially by wearing a mask when outside our homes and in crowded places," he said. Phonepaseuth believed the number of reported COVID-19 cases has declined because many people test themselves for the virus and do not report a positive test to health authorities, so the true number of infections is unknown. Infections are also on the wane because more people have immunity to the virus after being vaccinated. Vaccination prevents most people from developing serious illness so they do not go to a hospital and the infection is not recorded and reported by hospital staff. Phonepaseuth urged every Laotian to get vaccinated, so they will not become seriously ill if they do contract the virus. It is particularly important for elderly people and those with a chronic health condition to get vaccinated, he said. As of Monday, 215,880 COVID-19 cases have been recorded in Laos and 665 people have died from the virus. Laos reported its first two confirmed COVID-19 cases on March 24, 2020. ISLAMABAD, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani officials thank China for providing timely assistance to the country's flood-hit areas. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan said on Sunday that the death toll from this season's monsoon rain and flood since mid-June has risen to around 1,695 along with 12,865 others injured. China has provided relief funds, tents, and blankets, among other things to the flood-affected people in Pakistan. Produced by Xinhua Global Service VIENTIANE, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The dengue virus has killed 21 people and infected 26,867 across Laos so far this year, according to the country's Ministry of Health. In the last 24 hours, another patient died in Attapeu province while 41 new infections were reported, according to a report issued by the Center of Information and Education for Health under the Lao Ministry of Health on Monday. The highest number of dengue patients was reported in the Lao capital Vientiane at 13,544, while 3,855 cases were detected in Luang Namtha province, and 1,500 cases were recorded in Attapeu province. The 21 deaths included six in Attapeu, five in Vientiane, three each in Luang Namtha and Saravan, two in Xieng Khuang, and one each in Sekong and Oudomxay province. The Lao Ministry of Health has launched an anti-dengue campaign including raising public awareness in response to the alarmingly high number of cases in the country. The ministry also suggested five simple measures as the most effective method of dengue control, which are being practiced by households across the region. These measures consist of closing and sealing all unused containers, flushing out all water vessels, placing small guppy fish in water jars as they eat mosquito larvae, cleaning areas around homes, and remembering to do these four tasks each week. According to the World Health Organization, dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease, with Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and Singapore also seeing high incidence. The number of cases in the Western Pacific Region has more than doubled over the past 10 years. RAMALLAH, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Two Palestinians were killed and a third one was critically injured early on Monday by Israeli soldiers north of the central West Bank city of Ramallah, Palestinian security sources and eyewitnesses said. Security sources told Xinhua that an Israeli army force stormed the Jalazone refugee camp near the city and opened fire at a Palestinian vehicle that drove in the area, killing two Palestinians and injuring a third one. The two were identified as Basel Basbous and Khalid Anbar, both refugee camp residents, according to the sources. The injured, identified as Salamah Ra'fat, was from the town of Beir Zeit. Palestinian eyewitnesses said that the soldiers took away the bodies of the slain Palestinians and detained the third one. Meanwhile, an Israeli army spokesman said in a press statement that Israeli troops shot two Palestinians dead near Ramallah in the pre-dawn hours of Monday after they attempted to run over soldiers during an arrest raid in the area. According to the spokesman, while troops were operating in the Jalazone refugee camp in an attempt to arrest "a terror suspect," a vehicle began to accelerate toward the soldiers. A spokesman of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) in Gaza said in a press statement that killing two Palestinians near Ramallah "comes within the framework of the occupation's extended aggression against our people in the West Bank." "The aggression of the occupation and its crimes will not give it security on our land and will only bring it more resistance and insistence on confronting it with all the means that our people possess," said spokesman Abdulatif al-Qanou'a. The tension between Israel and the Palestinians has been mounting over the past few months after the Israeli army intensified its military actions and operations against Palestinian militants and activists in the West Bank. ADEN, Yemen, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- As a six-month humanitarian truce brokered by the United Nations expired without extension, the fear for a return of violence to Yemen is spreading among the people in the war-torn country. Many said that their hopes and aspirations for ending their woes inflicted by the more than seven years of deadly fighting were dashed as peace efforts were hampered by Yemen's warring factions and chaos gearing up for return. "The Yemeni people were deeply disappointed with the decision of the Houthis who rejected the UN proposal for extending the truce which succeeded in ceasing the brutal conflict during the past period," an official of Aden's local authority told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. "Millions of people fear a descent into a new cycle of deadly civil war as the Houthis began with their military preparations for launching attacks in and outside the country," said the official. He said that the Yemeni government made concessions and informed the United Nations about its agreement to extend the truce, but the Houthi militia's constant intransigence aborted peace efforts exerted by international and regional powers. On Sunday, UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg announced that no agreement has been reached to renew the expired truce between the Yemeni warring parties. "The UN Special Envoy regrets that an agreement has not been reached today, as an extended and expanded truce would provide additional critical benefits to the population," his office said in a statement. Although the UN proposal for extending the truce has reflected the main terms that the Houthis have been demanding since the truce began on April 2, the Houthis have yet to make a statement on why they rejected the extension. The Houthis on Saturday claimed that the government side did not remain committed to the previous six months of the truce, and warned foreign oil companies in the provinces controlled by the government to immediately cease operating or face missile attacks. An official of Yemen's Ministry of Oil and Minerals based in Aden confirmed to Xinhua that "the Houthi terror threats of attacking foreign oil companies operating in Yemen created a nationwide panic and badly affected the country's deteriorating economy, particularly through pushing the national currency into further collapse just a day after failing to renew the truce." "The Houthi threats mainly aimed at creating an abrupt cessation of the government's economic activities and loss of jobs, plunging the country's people into mass famine," said the official who asked to remain anonymous. "Foreign teams working in limited oil sectors in the government-controlled provinces suspended their activities and started thinking about leaving Yemen over the fear that the Houthis would bomb their workplaces and oil facilities with missiles and explosive-laden drones," he added. Yemeni citizens living in the government-controlled provinces also expressed their anxiety as the Houthi group vowed to bomb the areas controlled by the pro-government forces with missiles and booby-trapped drones. Earlier in the day, shelling attacks carried out by the Houthi militia targeted residential areas in the country's southern regions just hours after the truce expiry, sparking sporadic fighting with the troops backed by the Saudi Arabia-led coalition. The UN envoy on Sunday indicated that negotiations will continue to renew the UN-brokered truce, and reaffirmed his calls on the parties to maintain calm and refrain from provocations or any actions that could lead to an escalation of violence. "I urge them to fulfill their obligation to the Yemeni people to pursue every avenue for peace," he said in a statement. Breakthroughs in the past six months of the truce include the resumption of commercial flights to and from the Sanaa airport and the entry of fuel ships into the port of Hodeidah. However, the siege on Taiz city has not been lifted yet. On April 2, the Yemeni government and the Houthis agreed upon a two-month truce brokered by the United Nations. The truce was later renewed twice through Oct. 2. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern cities and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government out of the capital Sanaa. PHNOM PENH, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia has so far administered at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccines to some 15.19 million people, or 94.9 percent of its 16-million population, Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen said on Monday. Addressing a graduation ceremony of students at the Vanda Institute here, the Cambodian prime minister said the government's tough measures, together with high vaccination rates, have enabled the Southeast Asian nation to control the pandemic successfully, protecting millions of lives. Cambodia has seen no new deaths from COVID-19 since April, as 90.9 percent of its population had been fully vaccinated with two required vaccine doses, the health ministry said on Monday. Also, about 63.6 percent of the people had received a third dose, 27 percent had had a fourth jab, and 5.4 percent had taken a fifth shot, the ministry added. China's Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccines have been widely used in the kingdom's immunization program. Thong Mengdavid, a research fellow at the Phnom Penh-based Asian Vision Institute, said Chinese COVID-19 vaccines have not only helped protect the lives of Cambodian people but also boosted economic growth. "China was the first country to help Cambodia in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic," he told Xinhua. "And from the very beginning, Cambodia's choice of China as the strategic vaccine supplier was absolutely right." With China's vaccines, Cambodia could accomplish the nationwide vaccination program, achieving strong herd immunity, he said. "Chinese vaccines have not only protected millions of Cambodian people's lives and stabilized health system, but also helped boost the country's economic recovery." TEHRAN, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman on Monday urged the United States to quit its addiction to sanctions and display "constructive" behavior if it seeks to reach an agreement on the revival of a 2015 nuclear deal, according to official news agency IRNA. Nasser Kanaani made the remarks in an address to a weekly press conference, adding that Washington's imposition of fresh sanctions against Tehran indicates that the U.S. government is suffering from inconsistency and paradox and fails to have the political will for continuing the nuclear negotiations. He noted that the talks on the nuclear deal's revival and sanctions' removal are continuing through the European Union (EU) as the negotiations' coordinator, saying the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York provided a good opportunity for talks on the issues and indirect messages were exchanged between Tehran and Washington on its sidelines. Iran is still committed to achieving a "good and robust" agreement as well as a favorable result and has submitted its response to the EU's proposed final draft of a potential nuclear agreement. Kanaani assured that the process of exchanging messages is continuing, and Iran has presented its conclusion about the negotiations to the EU. It is still possible to reach an agreement and resume the nuclear deal's implementation, he said, emphasizing that once the American side shows its political will, the agreement can be achieved in a short period of time. 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 removing 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 the JCPOA's revival 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 the nuclear talks was held in the Austrian capital in early August after a five-month hiatus. On Aug. 8, the EU put forward its final text of the draft decision on reviving the JCPOA. Iran and the United States later indirectly exchanged views on the proposal in a process that has so far failed to produce any favorable outcome. Photo taken on Oct. 1, 2022 shows people visit the Pakistan Monument during an event marking the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) "China offers a promise of hope to the developing world beset by multiple crises relating to climate, finance, food and energy. The Chinese template of inter-state relations prioritizes cooperation over confrontation, a governing principle in formation of a community of common destiny," Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif said on social media. ISLAMABAD, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Sky in Pakistan's capital Islamabad illuminated colors of friendship when the National Monument lit up with China's national flag to mark China's National Day on the pleasant Saturday evening. As the monument turned red, melodious Chinese tunes wafted with the evening breeze to soothe the hearts of officials and public who attended the ceremony to celebrate the bliss of the national day. The visitors who saw the red hues on the monument immediately realized that the national building wore the luminous red robe to share the joy of China's National Day with the Chinese people who showed support to Pakistan in the hour of need. In a conversation with Xinhua, Ameer Mujahid, 34, expressed joy at the move of his government to celebrate China's National Day on the occasion. Mujahid who visited the National Monument after seeing it flashing red color while driving past it, said that such celebrations give a chance to young people to know more about China and educate them about significant days of their close friend China. "China has recently helped us a lot in flood relief activities, as it was among the first countries to not only give the flood victims financial support, but also moral support by sending well wishes, both of which means a lot during the times of distress," Mujahid told Xinhua. Khadija Shaukat, a teacher of Pakistan Studies in a reputed institute in Islamabad's twin city Rawalpindi, visited the monument with her family and felt so happy to see the celebration at the national building. Talking to Xinhua, Shaukat said that she always tells students about the Pakistan-China friendship in her class, and the students keenly learn about the support which China has always extended to Pakistan, strengthening the friendship over the years. She said that the monument is a pleasant site to behold because of the display of China's radiant colors on it, but also a great display of the significance of China to the government and people of Pakistan. "The celebration of China's National Day in the heart of Pakistan at the national monument shows that China is so close to the hearts of Pakistanis and they value the friendship with China," she said. Photo taken on Oct. 1, 2022 shows an event held at the Pakistan Monument to mark the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan.(Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) Speaking at the event, officials spoke highly of Pakistan's friendship with China. Zafar Uddin Mahmood, special assistant to the Pakistani prime minister, felicitated the people and government of China on China's National Day and wished further progress to the country. On social media, the country's Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif extended the national day greetings to the Chinese people and leadership and said that China, as the second largest economy and a paramount global power, is a source of stability in a perpetually changing world. "China offers a promise of hope to the developing world beset by multiple crises relating to climate, finance, food and energy. The Chinese template of inter-state relations prioritizes cooperation over confrontation, a governing principle in formation of a community of common destiny," he added. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong said that the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between China and Pakistan is rock-solid and unshakable. Over the past 71 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan, the two countries have always had a high degree of mutual trust, devoted to helping each other, the Chinese ambassador said. BEIJING, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- China has renewed its policy support for the new-energy vehicle (NEV) sector, a move that experts believe will further fuel an industry that is already in the fast lane. Days ahead of the National Day holiday, usually seen as a peak shopping season, China announced that the purchase tax exemption for NEVs will be extended to the end of 2023. This marks the third extension since the country first implemented the policy in 2014. Based on the selling prices of mainstream new-energy vehicles in the market, experts estimate that the policy will help car buyers save about 10,000 yuan (about 1,408 U.S. dollars), while policymakers expect it to result in 100 billion yuan of taxes waived nationwide. Tax exemption has been proven an effective tool in spurring consumption. In the first seven months of the year, the policy has cut around 40.68 billion yuan in taxes, up 108.5 percent from the previous year, according to the State Administration of Taxation. Experts believe that such a favourable policy will further unleash market demand for NEVs, a sector that has registered rapid expansion in recent years. In the first eight months of this year, a total of 3.86 million NEVs were sold in China, surging about 110 percent year on year, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM). Globally, China has ranked first in terms of production and sales for seven straight years since 2015, said Xin Guobin, vice minister of industry and information technology. The boom in China's NEV sector came as the world's second-largest economy rolled out a raft of policy incentives to spur the development of NEVs. Meng Wei, spokesperson for the National Development and Reform Commission, said that China has regarded NEVs as a focal point in the transformation of its automobile industry, putting in place a policy framework that has provided a solid underpinning for its development. One element in the plan is the development guideline for the NEV industry unveiled in 2020. The document listed five main tasks for NEV development from 2021 to 2035, including improving technology innovation capacity, building new-type industry ecosystems and enhancing infrastructure. In addition, more than other 600 supporting policies have been rolled out by central and local governments, covering technological innovation, promotion and application, and security. Sustained policy incentives have helped the sector achieve breakthroughs in areas such as technology development and market growth, said Shi Jianhua, deputy secretary general of the CAAM. So far, China has established a complete industrial system, with progress made in core technologies such as batteries, motors and controllers, Shi said. Data shows that sales of NEVs in the country topped 11.08 million units as of the end of May, compared with only 20,000 units at the end of 2012. Meng believes there is still great growth potential in China's NEV market, saying that the country is seeing consumption upgrading, with a generation of young consumers who are more receptive to new technologies and products. More policy moves are in the pipeline. According to Meng, China will work to further improve its NEV-related policy system, optimize industrial layout, step up technological innovation and deepen international cooperation in the sector. RAMALLAH, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Palestine on Sunday urged the European countries to tie their relations with Israel to its adherence to international law, UN resolutions, and human rights principles. The international community "is required to hold Israel directly responsible for the escalation in the West Bank against the Palestinians, and to put real pressure on it to stop it immediately," the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "Israel insists on escalating the situation, and we seriously view the dangers of this escalation that serves its interests," the statement said. The call came ahead of the 12th meeting of the EU-Israel Association Council, which will be held in Brussels. The meeting will cover topics such as trade, energy, climate change, culture, science, and technology. The meeting takes place amid ongoing tensions between the Israeli army and Palestinians in the West Bank. Since early January, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, according to official Palestinian figures. In contrast, 18 Israelis have been killed in attacks carried out by Palestinians in Israeli cities since March. Photo taken on Sept. 28, 2022, shows the entrance of Sado Japanese Crested Ibis Conservation Center in Sado island, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. (Xinhua/Wang Zijiang) Known as the "Auspicious Bird" in China, the crested ibises gifted by China help Japan's Sado save the species from the danger of extinction and achieve human-nature harmony. TOKYO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- On the early morning of Oct. 1, three crested ibises, an endangered bird species once on the verge of extinction here, left their cage and flew into the sky one after another on Sado island off Japan's Niigata Prefecture. This was the last release of the year at the Sado Japanese Crested Ibis Conservation Center. Japan has been trying to reintroduce the internationally protected species to the wild since 2008, following successful artificial breeding with a pair of the birds presented by China in 1999. A total of 492 ibises have so far been released on Sado island, bringing back crested ibis from the danger of extinction. In January 1999, two crested ibises, Yang Yang and You You, gifted by China as symbols of friendship arrived in Sado to help rebuild the species in Japan. At that time, Sado center was home to the only crested ibis left in Japan, a female named Kin. Photo taken on Sept. 28, 2022, shows the stone monument commemorating the crested ibis "Kin" in Sado island, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. (Xinhua/Wang Zijiang) Twenty-three years later, Yang Yang and You You are still well protected there, and it is very difficult for people to visit them. Yoichi Hokari, head of the Sado Japanese Crested Ibis Conservation Center, allowed Xinhua reporters to have a glimpse of their life through the computer monitoring system: in the innermost cages at the center, wearing foot tags No. 16 and No. 17 respectively, they were leisurely strolling in front of the camera. Hokari said that the male bird You You and female Yang Yang are now 26 years old, equal to 80 for human. They have now been separated into two cages, where You You lives with a 13-year-old female bird and Yang Yang with another 14-year-old female. A crested ibis is an iconic bird deeply rooted in Japanese history and culture. Historically, the birds were widespread across Japan, however, the number of crested ibises in the country plunged in the 20th century as the birds were hunted for their meat and fine feathers. They also lost their habitats due to deforestation. Photo taken on Sept. 28, 2022, shows the China-gifted crested ibis "You You" through the computer monitoring system in Sado island, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) To save the endangered species, the Japanese government captured the last five wild crested ibises on the Sado Island and relocated them to a conservation center in 1981. Meanwhile in China, seven wild crested ibises were discovered in the mountains of China's northwest Shaanxi Province the same year. The crested ibis has long been adored by the Chinese people as an auspicious bird for its beautiful appearance, thus known as the "Auspicious Bird" in China. Due to the failure of Sado center's plan to artificially breed crested ibises, by 1995 there was only the aging Kin in Japan. Ikuo Hirayama, the then governor of Niigata Prefecture, recalled, "Seeing Kin, I made up my mind to continue the task of crested ibis breeding in Sado, and see the birds fly in the sky of Sado again." In Nov. 1998, on the occasion of a Chinese leader's visit to Japan, Hirayama took the opportunity and told relevant Chinese personnel that Japanese people wished to have a pair of healthy crested ibises. About two months later, You You and Yang Yang arrived in Japan. On May 21, 1999, the good news that You You and Yang Yang had given birth to their first chick was immediately heard across Japan. In the following year, the pair gave birth to two more chicks. In October 2000, the Chinese government gifted another female ibis named Mei Mei. In 2003, Kin died at the center at the age of 36, an equivalence of 100 for human. Crested ibises born in Japan became extinct following her death. Today's crested ibises on the island are all descendants of those from China's Shaanxi Province. At this point, the three crested ibises from China produced 37 offspring in Japan. To ensure genetic diversity, China has since sent crested ibises twice. The ultimate goal of protecting crested ibis is for them to return to nature. In Sept. 2008, 10 crested ibises were released from cages, the first time in 27 years that crested ibises once again soared in the sky. Photo taken on Sept. 28, 2022, shows the crested ibises in Sado island, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) In 2012, the released birds hatched chicks in the wild. In Jan. 2019, Japan lowered the status of the birds from "extinction in the wild" to "critically endangered." According to reports, there are about 650 crested ibises in Japan by the end of 2021. For hundreds of years, Sado has been famous for its gold and silver mines. It was not until the 1980s that the mining industry was abandoned as the environment was severely damaged. It was crested ibises from China that helped Sado achieve harmony between human and nature. The rare birds have also been providing a boost to the local economy on the island, as crested ibises have become a symbol for local products, especially agricultural products. The island, with a population of 55,000, attracted some 200,000 visitors every year before the COVID-19 pandemic, as most of them came to Sado to see crested ibises. "We cherish the crested ibises from China very much. You You and Yang Yang are happy here, and I hope they live long like Kin," Hokari told Xinhua. RAMALLAH, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian officials on Monday called on Israel to stop its "dangerous and irresponsible" policy of killing the Palestinians in the West Bank. Nabil Abu Rudeineh, the spokesman of the Palestinian presidency, made the remarks following the earlier Israeli killing of two Palestinians and wounding of a third one in the Al-Jalazone refugee camp north of the West Bank city of Ramallah. He said in a press statement that the Palestinian presidency condemns the killings of the Palestinians. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Ishtaye on Monday told the weekly meeting of the Palestinian cabinet in Ramallah that the Palestinian Authority rejects the Israeli escalation in the West Bank. "The exacerbation of grave violations of Palestinian human rights, the latest of which was the killing of the two young men in Al-Jalazone refugee camp, is rejected," he said in a statement. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Monday that "we hold the Israeli government fully and directly responsible for this crime," calling on the international community "to break its silence regarding the blood and suffering of the Palestinians." On Monday morning, two Palestinians were killed, and a third was critically injured by Israeli soldiers north of the central West Bank city of Ramallah, Palestinian security sources and eyewitnesses said. An Israeli army spokesman said in a press statement that Israeli soldiers shot two Palestinians dead near Ramallah in the pre-dawn hours of Monday after they attempted to run over soldiers during an arrest raid in the area. The two were killed while allegedly attempting to "carry out a ramming attack" towards the soldiers who were raiding the Jalazone refugee camp to apprehend a person suspected of "terror activity," the Israeli military said in a statement earlier in the day. The incident was the latest in six-month-long Israeli raids in the occupied West Bank following a series of street attacks in Israel. The raids often trigger clashes and result in the deaths of dozens of Palestinians. GENEVA, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The human rights situation of people of African descent is of urgent concern, with systemic racial discrimination continuing in all areas of life, a group of United Nations (UN) experts said on Monday. The UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent told the ongoing 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council that it was "outraged" at continued incidents of racially-motivated violence against people of African descent. Catherine S. Namakula, Chair of the Working Group, told the Council that excessive use of force and killings of people of African descent by law enforcement continues with impunity in many countries. This year alone, Namakula said, there have been several racist and violent acts. On May 14, 2022 in the United States, an avowed white supremacist shot 13 people in a shop, killing 10 people of African descent and injuring three others. Namakula also told the Council that the Working Group's latest annual report, presented to the Council on Monday and focusing on the theme of children of African descent, found that the heritage of these children is tainted by racial discrimination and the unresolved legacies of trade and trafficking of enslaved Africans and colonialism, post-colonial apartheid and segregation. "Authentic African history needs to be taught to combat systemic racism," said Namakula. Michel Xavier Biang (rear C), permanent representative of Gabon to the United Nations and president of the UN Security Council for the month of October, speaks at a press conference at the UN headquarters in New York, Oct. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Xie E) UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Gabon, which holds the presidency of the UN Security Council for the month of October, said Monday that the council's monthly program of work will feature two signature events, namely one on "peace and security in Africa" and another on "climate and security in Africa." Michel Xavier Biang, permanent representative of Gabon to the United Nations and president of the council, told reporters at a press conference at the UN headquarters in New York that his country plans to hold the first signature event, a debate on "Peace and security in Africa: strengthening the fight against financing of armed groups and terrorists through the illicit trafficking of natural resources" this week on Thursday. Gabon's President Ali Bongo Ondimba is expected to chair the meeting. The second signature event, according to Biang, is a debate on "Climate and security in Africa." Gabon's Foreign Minister Michael Moussa-Adamo will chair the meeting. In October, the annual open debate on women, peace and security will take place with a particular focus on "strengthening women's resilience and leadership as a path to peace in regions plagued by armed groups." The council is also scheduled to hold its annual debate on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organizations, focusing on the AU. The 16th annual joint consultative meeting between the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) will be held on Oct. 14. The annual meeting rotates between New York and Addis Ababa, the home of the AU headquarters. This year, the meeting will be held in New York, and it will be preceded by the ninth informal joint seminar of the Security Council and the AUPSC, which is set to take place on Oct. 13. In addition to the signature events, according to the council president, African issues on the program of work in October include: Western Sahara, consultations on the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara and the mandate renewal of MINURSO; and Somalia, briefing by the chair of the 751 Somalia Sanctions Committee and the mandate renewal of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia. Middle East issues on the program include: Yemen, monthly briefing and consultations on developments; and Syria, meetings on the political/humanitarian situations and on the chemical weapons track. The council is expected to meet on two European issues in October. Two issues in the Americas will also be discussed in October, including Haiti, a briefing on the UN Integrated Office in Haiti. Michel Xavier Biang, permanent representative of Gabon to the United Nations and president of the UN Security Council for the month of October, speaks at a press conference at the UN headquarters in New York, Oct. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Xie E) UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for efforts to provide affordable housing to all. "We need more urgent action and greater investment to provide affordable housing to all - alongside access to electricity, water, sanitation, transport, and other basic services," the top UN official said in his message for the World Habitat Day, which falls on Oct. 3 this year. Guterres said that a cascade of challenges - from climate chaos and conflicts to COVID-19 - is hitting the most vulnerable populations the hardest and rapid and unplanned urbanization is exacerbating many of these challenges. He said that over 1 billion people live in overcrowded settlements with inadequate housing - and that number "is rising every day." "To leave no one behind is the core pledge of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," Guterres said. "This means making cities work for women and children and closing existing gaps: between the haves and the have-nots; within and between urban and rural areas; and within and between developed and developing regions." "Inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements are crucial - and local action is key," the secretary-general stressed. World Habitat Day is marked on the first Monday of October each year, and is recognized by the United Nations to reflect on the state of towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. The day was first celebrated in 1986 in Nairobi, Kenya. This year's theme - "Mind the Gap. Leave No One and No Place Behind" - puts the spotlight on the "widening inequalities in living conditions across the world." MOGADISHU, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Somali government confirmed Monday that a top leader of the al-Shabab terror group was killed in a joint operation by the Somali National Army (SNA) and international partner forces. The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism said Abdullahi Nadir who was one of the co-founders of the al-Shabab terror group, who had a 3 million U.S. dollar bounty on his head, was killed Saturday in Haramka village in the Middle Jubba region. Nadir held various positions within al-Shabab which has engaged the Somali government in nearly daily terror attacks. The deceased was close to the former ringleader Ahmed Abdi Godane who was killed in 2014 as well as the current al-Shabab leader Ahmed Diriye. The government said Nadir was in the position to succeed Diriye, the current al-Shabab leader. By Azernews By Vugar Khalilov The Azerbaijani State Border Service seized over 39 kg of drugs and some 759 psychotropic pills in September, Azernews reports, citing the service. The State Border Service maintained its efforts to ensure reliable border protection and combat smuggling, illegal migration, and drug trafficking. During the mentioned period, 55 persons, including 34 Azerbaijanis, three Nepalis, two Tajiks, a Palestinian, three Pakistanis, two Iranians, five Afghans, a Syrian, and four Sri Lankans were detained for breaching the state border. In an effort to combat illegal migration, 30 people were apprehended while attempting to cross the state border with forged passports, Schengen visas, as well as date stamps. Some 25 individuals were detained for breaching the regime's regulations along the border zone, and 678 people were detained for violating the rules of the border regime, and appropriate steps were taken against them. As a result of anti-crime initiatives, 234 people wanted by the Azerbaijani law-enforcement agencies were identified and handed over to the relevant agencies. Some 420 people, who attempted to leave the country, were barred from doing so, and 24 people, who were previously barred from entering the country, were again denied entry. Anti-smuggling measures resulted in the seizure of contraband goods, including alcoholic beverages and tobacco products worth approximately AZN937,318 ($551,363). The measures are underway to organize the reliable protection of the state borders, the agency stressed. CAIRO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank has agreed to finance Egypt 400 million U.S. dollars in advancing and decarbonizing the logistics and transport sectors, the institution said Monday. The finance will "support the shift toward low-carbon transportation along" Egypt's Alexandria-the 6th of October-Greater Cairo Area (GCA) railway corridor which mainly provides passenger trains services, the World Bank said in a press release on its website. Nearly 19 percent of Egypt's greenhouse gas emissions came from transportation, making the sector a major contributor only second to energy, it said. A project launched under the financing agreement, called Alexandria Trade Logistics Development Project, will see the creation of a freight railway bypass to the congested GCA, it noted. The bypass aims to run 15 container trains per day by 2030 between the Alexandria Seaport and the newly constructed 6th of October dry port. Additional freight trains will flow between the Alexandria port, Upper Egypt, and the Red Sea, the group said. This will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 965,000 tonnes over 30 years, since running freight trains has a lower carbon footprint than by road, the World Bank said. The project also pursued trade facilitation and the participation of private investors and the female labor force in the sector, which goes "aligned with Egypt's pressing development priorities," Kamel al-Wazir, Egyptian minister of transport, was quoted as saying. The finance portfolio between Egypt and the international lender includes 15 projects in healthcare, social security, entrepreneurship and transport, worth 5.7 billion U.S. dollars in total, said the Egyptian ministry of international cooperation in a statement on Monday. Students take part in an activity launched by Chinese Bridge Club to facilitate Egyptian students' Chinese language learning at the Al Jazeera Official Experimental Languages School in Cairo, Egypt, on Oct. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai) CAIRO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- At the Al Jazeera Official Experimental Languages School in downtown Cairo, a group of volunteers held a range of interactive activities on Chinese customs, symbols and language on Monday to help Egyptian students better understand China and the Chinese language. The activities are part of a three-day initiative launched by the Chinese Bridge Club in Cairo to facilitate Egyptian students' Chinese language learning, after a pilot program for teaching the Chinese language began in September in 12 Egyptian public middle schools. During Monday's event, a promotional video on China was screened to help participants gain some knowledge about the country's history and landmark sites. Volunteers also performed Chinese martial arts and joined students in interactive activities such as guessing words. "I love China so much... I have always wanted to visit this great country, that's why I want to learn the Chinese language," Qugaya Sherif, a seventh-grade student, told Xinhua during the activities. "Studying a foreign language is always good," the 13-year-old girl said, adding the initiative to teach Chinese as an optional second foreign language in Egyptian schools offers her "a great opportunity" to learn a language that she likes. Zhang Huasheng, science and technology counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Egypt, said during the event he was glad that many Egyptian students welcomed the idea of learning Chinese. "This is the result of the continuous strengthening of the friendship between China and Egypt, and it is a significant proof of the ongoing development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Egypt," he said. As more people have started learning Chinese, it has gradually become the "bridge of culture and friendship" that connects China with the rest of the world, he said. "Now, optional Chinese language courses are offered in Egyptian schools, which means that more Egyptian friends will learn Chinese and enhance their understanding of China," he noted. For her part, Sahar al-Gamal, principal of the Al Jazeera Official Experimental Languages School, said the school would do its best make the project a success and "contribute to promoting the awareness of learning the Chinese language." In September 2020, China and Egypt signed a memorandum of understanding to teach Chinese as an optional second foreign language in Egyptian primary and secondary schools, Zhang Tao, charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Egypt, revealed in a video message in late September. Thanks to the joint efforts of both sides, the pilot program has been launched one year earlier than planned, according to Zhang Tao. People take part in an activity launched by Chinese Bridge Club to facilitate Egyptian students' Chinese language learning at the Al Jazeera Official Experimental Languages School in Cairo, Egypt, on Oct. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai) An Egyptian teacher (R) teaches students Chinese words during an activity launched by Chinese Bridge Club to facilitate Egyptian students' Chinese language learning at the Al Jazeera Official Experimental Languages School in Cairo, Egypt, on Oct. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai) Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush (R) and her Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu attend a joint press conference in Tripoli, Libya, Oct. 3, 2022. Libya and Turkiye on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation on gas and oil. (Photo by Hamza Turkia/Xinhua) TRIPOLI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Libya and Turkiye on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation on gas and oil. The MoU was signed here between Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush and her Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu, who headed a senior Turkish delegation to visit Tripoli. Members of the delegation include Turkish ministers of defense, energy and natural resources, and trade, among other officials. At a joint press conference following the signing ceremony, Cavusoglu stressed the "importance of signing the MoU in the field of (hydrocarbon) resources for maintaining the stability and security of Libya." According to Cavusoglu, the two countries are holding consultations and discussions to sign other memoranda of understanding in the future. The Turkish minister said that an MoU signed with Libya in 2019 on maritime borders, security and military cooperation "has entered into force," and they have informed the United Nations about it. While stressing the importance of dialogue to solve issues in Libya, Cavusoglu called on the eastern-based House of Representatives, the parliament, and the High Council of State to continue their dialogue in order to reach a constitutional basis for holding general elections in Libya. For her part, Al-Manqoush said the MoU serves the interests of both countries and would contribute to solving the oil and gas crisis in the world. She added that both Libya and Turkiye had agreed to mobilize international support to reach a constitutional basis for general elections in Libya. Libya failed to hold general elections in December 2021 as scheduled, due to disagreements over election laws among the Libyan parties. MOGADISHU, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Somali leaders on Monday condemned the twin suicide bomb blasts in the central Somali town of Beledwyene where at least 15 people were killed and 26 others wounded. In separate statements, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre directed security agencies to step up anti-terrorism measures to ensure security in the country. Mohamud also sent his condolences to the families and relatives of the Somali citizens who lost their lives in the blasts that targeted local officials at Lamagalay base which is HirShabelle regional administration headquarters. He wished the wounded quick recovery and directed the government to provide immediate medical assistance to those whose health conditions are critical. The president's statement came as the death toll rose to 15 in the twin suicide bombs that rocked Beledweyne local administration premises, the interim administrative town of Hirshabelle state in central Somalia. The police and witnesses who declined to be named said the death toll could rise as some of the wounded are in critical condition. "The first explosion was a car laden with explosives driven by a suicide bomber that hit the first security gate of the presidential buildings, followed by another blast loaded on a truck not much far from the residential home of Hirshabelle state vice-president inside Lamagalaay compound, "Ali Jeyte Osman, Governor of Hiran region told journalists. "Their brutal acts will never distract us from rising against them," he added and vowed to step up anti-terror operations in the region. HirShabelle health minister and deputy governor for the Hiiraan region were among those killed in the attack which has also been condemned by the United Nations. In his statement, the prime minister who chaired an emergency security meeting following the blasts condemned the attacks which he said are aimed at derailing efforts to pacify Somalia. "This attack is a proof of how the terrorist groups are still hungry for the bloodshed of the Somali people, and they want to discourage the people who stood up for their lives. The blood of our precious people that they shed every day will not be spared," Abdi said. The latest attacks came barely two days after the killing of senior al-Shabab leader Abdullahi Nadir by government and international partner forces on Saturday during an operation in the Middle Juba region. The government forces have conducted several operations in Beledweyne in recent days against the al-Shabab terror group, liberating more than 40 villages and killing over 200 militants. TOKYO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in a policy speech marking the start of an extraordinary parliamentary session on Monday vowed to reboot the nation's hard-hit tourism industry by targeting increased spending by visitors. Kishida said a new target of increasing foreign visitors' total spending to more than 5 trillion yen (about 35 billion U.S. dollars) annually would be set, with the government taking advantage of the Japanese yen's sudden depreciation, which inflates the purchasing power of foreign guests. "We will maximize the advantage of the weak yen to recuperate the Japanese economy," Kishida said in his speech. While Japan's export-led economy should in theory be cheering a weaker yen, as a weaker yen sees exporters' overseas profits increase when repatriated on favorable exchange rates, and overall competitiveness enhanced in international markets, a persistently weak yen does have its downside. As a weaker yen pushes up already inflated import prices, with the country reliant on imports for 90 percent of its energy requirements, Kishida said the government was poised to combat soaring energy costs for resource-poor Japan by taking "unprecedented steps to alleviate the burden on households and companies." Regarding ballooning costs for natural gas prices across the globe that could see electricity bills spike in Japan between now and spring, Kishida said measures would be put in place to lessen the impact on households and corporations, but failed to explain in detail how the government planned to achieve this. As the public is already feeling the pinch of higher prices, Kishida also announced government plans to encourage wage increases by investing 1 trillion yen (6.89 billion dollars) in human resource development in "promising fields" over five years. The extraordinary session on Monday marks the first opportunity for a fully-fledged parliamentary debate between the ruling coalition and the opposition camp after July's upper house election. The parliamentary session will last for 69 days through Dec. 10 and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party-led coalition (LDP) and opposition parties will engage in a heated debate over a number of hot-button issues. These include, but are not limited to, the LDP's economic proposals to rescue the world's third-largest economy from the downside effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as from a stark lack of economic drivers. This is amid a continued hollowing-out of the workforce as the society here continues to simultaneously age and shrink, with social welfare costs skyrocketing commensurate with Japan's aging society. With the LDP's support rate sliding in recent polls, Kishida and his party will also be quizzed by the opposition bloc over its ties to the Unification Church, known for coercing massive amounts of money from its followers in return for "spiritual" or "karmic" benefits, following the party's promise to sever ties to the group. Earlier last month, an internal probe by the LDP revealed about half of the LDP's lawmakers had ties to the controversial organization, formally known as as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification. Kishida, henceforth, will be cross-examined by opposition parties over the matter in the extraordinary parliamentary session, amid mounting concerns by opposition parties and the public that the organization has been seeking to influence politics here by deepening its ties with the LDP. SARAJEVO, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) have elected Zeljka Cvijanovic, Denis Becirovic, and Zeljko Komsic to serve as members of the tripartite Presidency of BiH, according to the official count published by the country's Central Electoral Commission (CEC) on Monday. More than 90 percent of votes had been counted by CEC by the time of the announcement. According to the election law of BiH, Bosniak and Croat members of the Presidency of BiH are elected by citizens of the Federation of BiH. Meanwhile, the Serb member of the Presidency is elected by the citizens of Republika Srpska. Zeljko Komsic, 58-year-old, was re-elected for his second four-year term as the Croat member of the Presidency. A war veteran with a law degree, he has already served a double Presidency term after being elected in 2006. Komsic left the Social Democratic Party of BiH in 2012 to become the founder and leader of the Democratic Front, a multi-ethnic social-democratic and social-liberal political party. The second member of the Presidency, Denis Becirovic, is vice president of the multi-ethnic Social Democratic Party of BiH. The 47-year-old was born in Tuzla, an industrial city some 120 km north of the capital Sarajevo. Becirovic was elected as a member of the Parliament of BiH for three consecutive terms between 2006 and 2018, when he unsuccessfully ran for the Presidency of BiH. This year, he had more success and outran his opponent Bakir Izetbegovic, head of the Party of Democratic Activity. The third member of the Presidency is 55-year-old Zeljka Cvijanovic, a high-ranked member of the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD). SNSD is a governing party in Republika Srpska, led by Milorad Dodik, a current member of the Presidency of BiH. On Sunday, about 3.4 million registered voters in BiH went to vote to elect members of the Presidency of BiH, the Parliamentary Assembly of BiH, and the 12 parliaments on the country's lower government levels. A record number of 7,258 candidates, including 17 independent candidates, from 72 political parties and 38 coalitions, ran for public office in this year's general elections in BiH. These are the eighth general elections since 1996, as BiH got its Constitution as a part of the General Framework Agreement for Peace in BiH, also known as the Dayton peace agreement, which put an end to the 1992-1995 war in Bosnia. HELSINKI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The educational level of Finnish young people of working age has fallen below the average of other Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries, according to a policy analysis published on Monday by the Ministry of Education and Culture. During the last two decades, the share of highly-educated 25-34 year-olds in the whole OECD area rose from 27 percent to 48 percent. However, in Finland this figure remained relatively unchanged, rising from 39 percent to 40 percent. In the early 2000s, Finland was among the countries with the highest share of highly-educated young people. However, in 2021, the international education level comparison was based on the renewed labor force survey for the first time, the Ministry said, and although it is now more reliable, a long-term trend of increasing numbers of responses to the Finnish labor force survey has led to an overestimation of educational levels in the country. In the larger 25-64 group, the trend in Finland has been the same but slower. In 2011, the share of highly-educated people in this age group in Finland was 39.3 percent, while in the whole OECD this figure stood at 31.5 percent. Meanwhile, in 2021 the Finnish level was 42.3 percent, only slightly above the OECD average of 41.1 percent. "Finland has thus moved from the top quarter of the OECD countries to the middle group of countries," the Ministry said. According to its analysis, the employment rate of those with higher education was, on average, about ten percentage points higher than that of those who had only completed secondary education. This applied in Finland as well as in other OECD countries. WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- At least 80 people were killed in the U.S. states of Florida and North Caroline by Hurricane Ian which made landfall in southwestern Florida as Category 4 last week. At least 76 people in Florida had died due to Ian, with four other fatalities reported in North Carolina, media outlets said Sunday. In Florida's Lee County alone, the hurricane contributed to 42 deaths. The county sheriff Carmine Marceno told reporters that the projected death toll is unknown due to the insurmountable damage the county has seen. "Those numbers could go up," he said. "I don't know. I hope and pray that they don't." More than 1,600 rescues have been made in Florida since Ian made landfall there on Wednesday afternoon, according to the office of Governor Ron DeSantis. The storm brought catastrophic storm surges, heavy rains and destructive winds, and dangerous flooding to both Florida's coast and inland areas. Ian made landfall in South Carolina as Category 1 on Friday afternoon and weakened to a post-tropical cyclone that later dissipated across southern Virginia on Saturday. U.S. President Joe Biden is scheduled to travel to Puerto Rico Monday to survey damage from Hurricane Fiona, which brought heavy rains, catastrophic damage and an island-wide blackout to the U.S. territory last month, before heading to Florida on Wednesday. Biden said Friday that Hurricane Ian "is likely to rank among the worst in the nation's history." Estimated losses from Ian's wind and storm surges are between 28 billion and 47 billion U.S. dollars, according to CoreLogic, a U.S. research firm that estimates losses from natural disasters. UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday called for peace and mutual respect in his message for the International Day of Non-Violence. "The International Day of Non-Violence celebrates not only Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, but the values he embodied that echo across the decades: peace, mutual respect, and the essential dignity shared by every person," said the UN chief. Guterres said that this world "is not living up to those values," noting that "we see this through growing conflicts and climate chaos; poverty, hunger and deepening inequalities; prejudice, racism and rising hate speech and a morally bankrupt global financial system that entrenches poverty and stymies recovery for developing countries." The world "can defeat these challenges by embracing Gandhi's values and working across cultures and borders to build a better, more peaceful future for all, by investing in people's health, education, decent jobs and social protection to prevent people from falling and catch them when they do, and by ensuring access to financing and debt relief for all countries," Guterres said. He also called on the international community to support developing countries as they build resilient infrastructure and protect populations from the impacts of climate change, to secure and uphold the rights and dignity of all people, to take concrete action for inclusion, and to recognize multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic societies as a richness, not a threat. In June 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution to designate Oct. 2, Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, as the International Day of Non-Violence. The resolution says the International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness." LOS ANGELES, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- A crime organization hacked into the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), the second largest school district in the United States, and released a huge amount of data stolen from the attack online, authorities confirmed. KTLA news channel reported on Monday that the crime group, who had stolen more than 500 gigabytes of data from the school district during last month's hack, originally set Monday as the deadline for the school district to pay a ransom, but the data was published late Saturday night after LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho publicly announced that no ransom would be paid to the hackers. "Paying ransom never guarantees the full recovery of data, and Los Angeles Unified believes public dollars are better spent on our students rather than capitulating to a nefarious and illicit crime syndicate," the district said Friday. The authorities did not disclose what kind of data was stolen by the hacks, or what the attackers demanded exactly. KTLA said the district's employee health care and payroll apparently had been impacted. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has warned other large school districts across the country about the threat of ransomware attacks following the hacking of LAUSD on Sept. 5. Carvalho said in a statement Sunday that law enforcement and experts hired by the district were analyzing the full extent of the data released by the criminal organization. Meanwhile, staff from the district and parents questioned on social media platforms why the authorities did not inform the serious data leak to them before it was published by local news outlets. LAUSD is the largest public school system in California and the second largest public school district in the country. During the 2020-2021 school year, LAUSD served 664,774 students, with 25,088 teachers and 50,586 other employees. Finland to host Ukrainians and Russians in separate refugee reception centers 3 October, 02:59 PM Refugees from Ukraine (Photo:www.radiosvoboda.org) The Finnish Immigration Service has said that from now on it will work to place Ukrainian refugees in separate reception centers from Russian men fleeing the Kremlins mobilization, Finnish newspaper Yle has reported. Read also: European rights agency polls people fleeing war in Ukraine The situation is peculiar due to the war, said Pekka Nuutinen, Director of the Reception Unit at the Finnish Immigration Service. Were facing a new situation in reception center operations. We felt that it was necessary to change our traditional accommodation policy. The arrival of Russian asylum seekers to Finland has caused concerns among Ukrainians living in the Nordic country. Particularly, the Ukrainian Association in Finland had stated that placing men who escaped from the aggressor state next to Ukrainian women and children would significantly threaten the mental and physical well-being of the latter. Video ad Currently, there are roughly 35,000 Ukrainians and 1,000 Russians at reception points in Finland. About 14,000 Ukrainians and about 550 Russians live in distribution reception centers, from where they are to be allocated housing. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google News Kazakhstan says CSTO will not participate in war against Ukraine 3 October, 06:12 PM Astana (Photo:REUTERS/Pavel Mikheyev) The Russian-dominated Collective Security Treaty Organization or CSTO will not take part in Russia's war against Ukraine, the official representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Aibek Smadiyarov, said on Oct. 2. He said the participation of the CSTO in the war "doesnt fall within the organization's area of responsibility." Asked if the Kazakhstan might become involved in the conflict itself, Smadiyarov said that Astana proceeds from the principles of the territorial integrity of states, their sovereign equality and peaceful existence in accordance with international law and the U.N. Charter. Video ad In general, the zone of responsibility of the CSTO is clearly defined by the internationally recognized territories of the member states of the organizations, and collective security is ensured within these territories, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry said. Thus, the issue of the participation of the CSTO in the zone of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict is not on the agenda. Earlier, Kazakhstan refused to recognize the results of Russian pseudo-referendums in Ukraine. The country also said that it would extradite Russian citizens in the country who are evading mobilization in Russia if they were put on the wanted list. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google News Company Logo Global Metal Injection Molding Market Global Metal Injection Molding Market Dublin, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Metal Injection Molding Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global metal injection molding market reached a value of US$ 3.37 Billion in 2021. Looking forward, the publisher expects the market to reach a value of US$ 6.41 Billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 11.31% during 2021-2027. Keeping in mind the uncertainties of COVID-19, we are continuously tracking and evaluating the direct as well as the indirect influence of the pandemic on different end use industries. These insights are included in the report as a major market contributor. Metal injection molding (MIM) refers to an advanced, cost-effective, metalworking procedure, wherein finely powdered metal is mixed with binder material to manufacture the output of feedstocks. These raw materials are further solidified and shaped accurately with the assistance of injection molding. After formation, conditioning operations are executed on finished feedstocks for sintering, removing blinders, and densifying the powders. MIM offer corrosion, thermal stability, high mechanical strength, and dimensional stability to small, finished metal products, due to which they are extensively employed across various industrial applications. Metal Injection Molding Market Trends: One of the key factors primarily driving the metal injection molding market growth is the widespread product adoption in the automotive sector for producing precise, lightweight, and high-quality motorized parts in large quantity. These components are further used to manufacture various vehicular parts, such as steering, gearbox, locking mechanisms and turbochargers. In line with this, the extensive deployment of metal injection molding technology for manufacturing surgical equipment, including ablation electrodes, endoscopic graspers, scissors, orthopedic tools, and trauma plates is acting as another growth-inducing factor. Story continues Moreover, the shifting inclination of manufacturers toward MIM solutions over conventional molding procedures is contributing to the market growth. Metal injection molding assists in completing operations at affordable prices and reducing the production time and wastage of raw materials used in the production of feedstocks. Other factors, such as rapid urbanization and industrialization, particularly in emerging economies, strategic collaborations amongst key players and the rising investments in research and development (R&D) activities to introduce advanced MIM for mass designing complex shaped metal components are creating a positive outlook for the market. Competitive Landscape: The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being Amphenol Corporation, ARC Group Worldwide Inc., ATW Companies Inc., CMG Technologies, CN Innovations Ltd., Dean Group International Ltd, Ernst Reiner GmbH & Co. KG, Metal Powder Products LLC, Parmaco Metal Injection Molding AG, Sintex a/s, Smith Metal Products and Tanfel Metal. Key Questions Answered in This Report: How has the global metal injection molding market performed so far and how will it perform in the coming years? What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global metal injection molding market? What are the key regional markets? What is the breakup of the market based on the material type? What is the breakup of the market based on the end use industry? What are the various stages in the value chain of the industry? What are the key driving factors and challenges in the industry? What is the structure of the global metal injection molding market and who are the key players? What is the degree of competition in the industry? Key Topics Covered: 1 Preface 2 Scope and Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Introduction 4.1 Overview 4.2 Key Industry Trends 5 Global Metal Injection Molding Market 5.1 Market Overview 5.2 Market Performance 5.3 Impact of COVID-19 5.4 Market Forecast 6 Market Breakup by Material Type 6.1 Stainless Steel 6.1.1 Market Trends 6.1.2 Market Forecast 6.2 Low Alloy Steel 6.2.1 Market Trends 6.2.2 Market Forecast 6.3 Soft Magnetic Material 6.3.1 Market Trends 6.3.2 Market Forecast 6.4 Others 6.4.1 Market Trends 6.4.2 Market Forecast 7 Market Breakup by End Use Industry 7.1 Electrical and Electronics 7.1.1 Market Trends 7.1.2 Market Forecast 7.2 Automotive 7.2.1 Market Trends 7.2.2 Market Forecast 7.3 Medical and Orthodontics 7.3.1 Market Trends 7.3.2 Market Forecast 7.4 Consumer Products 7.4.1 Market Trends 7.4.2 Market Forecast 7.5 Firearms and Defense 7.5.1 Market Trends 7.5.2 Market Forecast 7.6 Others 7.6.1 Market Trends 7.6.2 Market Forecast 8 Market Breakup by Region 9 SWOT Analysis 10 Value Chain Analysis 11 Porters Five Forces Analysis 12 Price Analysis 13 Competitive Landscape 13.1 Market Structure 13.2 Key Players 13.3 Profiles of Key Players 13.3.1 Amphenol Corporation 13.3.1.1 Company Overview 13.3.1.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.1.3 Financials 13.3.1.4 SWOT Analysis 13.3.2 ARC Group Worldwide Inc. 13.3.2.1 Company Overview 13.3.2.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.2.3 Financials 13.3.3 ATW Companies Inc. 13.3.3.1 Company Overview 13.3.3.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.4 CMG Technologies 13.3.4.1 Company Overview 13.3.4.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.5 CN Innovations Ltd. 13.3.5.1 Company Overview 13.3.5.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.6 Dean Group International Ltd 13.3.6.1 Company Overview 13.3.6.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.7 Ernst Reiner GmbH & Co. KG 13.3.7.1 Company Overview 13.3.7.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.8 Metal Powder Products LLC 13.3.8.1 Company Overview 13.3.8.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.9 Parmaco Metal Injection Molding AG 13.3.9.1 Company Overview 13.3.9.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.10 Sintex a/s 13.3.10.1 Company Overview 13.3.10.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.11 Smith Metal Products 13.3.11.1 Company Overview 13.3.11.2 Product Portfolio 13.3.12 Tanfel Metal 13.3.12.1 Company Overview 13.3.12.2 Product Portfolio For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vj78p8 Attachment 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 Education Industry Expert and Founder of Tutors International, Adam Caller, will be presenting next week at the 2022 Prestel & Partner Family Office Forum in New York along with COO, Victoria Gibbs, Client Account Manager, Joanna Dunckley Phillips and current tutor, Nathaniel Hannan. Here, he gives an insight on what attendees can expect at the presentation. OXFORD, England, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Adam Caller, education consultant, CEO and founder of elite private tutoring company , Tutors International, has released details about his company's forthcoming guest speaker appearance at the prestigious Prestel & Partner Family Office Forum. The New York 2022 Edition takes place over two days on the 11th and 12th October, bringing together 100+ Family Officers and UHNWIs at the Harvard Club in New York City. Mr Caller has announced that he and his Tutors International colleagues, Chief Operations Office, Victoria Gibbs, Client Account manager, Joanna Dunckley Phillips and current tutor, Nathaniel Hannan, will speak about the advantages of specialised private tutoring. Their 30-minute session is scheduled to take place at 3 pm on Tuesday 11th October 2022. An Established World-Leader in Private Tuition Prestel & Parter's New York Family Office Forum 2022 With its six well-established annual family office forum editions in Zurich, Dubai, Singapore, Wiesbaden, New York City, and London, Prestel & Partner is proud to be a global leader in providing a private platform for networking, sharing, and learning opportunities on the most pertinent family office and investment themes. They offer a space to meet peers, share experiences, and learn about governance and investment best-practice. The New York 2022 Edition of the Family Office Forum Collection will see 100+ Family Offices and ultra-high net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), meet at the Harvard Club in a confidential setting, allowing an exchange between families, wealth owners, Family Offices and select experts on best practices in governance and investments. Service providers are not just from the financial industry but are joined by representatives from various fields such as health, travel, international structuring, software, education or luxury goods. Partners offer their expertise without any upfront product sales, focusing on added value, trends, and strategies. Many of the most successful families, private investors, and thought leaders from the Americas will join their international peers from a global network to share their experience. Story continues The Advantages of Specialised Private Tutoring Tutors International was founded by Adam Caller in 1999 and has established a well-earned reputation as the leading private tuition company specialising in high-end personalised residential tutoring worldwide. Mr Caller is a tuition expert and an industry-leading education consultant. An experienced entrepreneur with a UHNW client base, he has extensive experience tutoring prestigious families around Europe. Mr Caller explains how private tuition can enable a child to fully reach their personal potential and academic excellence: "We at Tutors International excel at finding the world's best tutors. Tailored private tuition allows the tutor to offer a strengths-based education which focuses on the child's talents and learning style. Whether Clients want a live-in Tutor, a full-time educator to work alongside mainstream education, or a home-school Tutor able to incorporate extra-curricular expertise, we will find the perfect Tutor for the student(s) and their family. From one-to-one tuition to cutting edge micro-schools, Tutors International recruits the best private tutor for the job. If needed, Tutors International has access to more specialist help, including a Harley Street educational psychologist. A perfect Tutor should provide and nurture academic brilliance, align with the family's values, and complement their lifestyle. As well as positions in traditional settings, Tutors International can source travelling tutors and yacht-based residencies". Mr Caller expounds on the reasons parents contact Tutors International: "Many of our Clients have found that their child's school is unable to impart the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving society. They want the best for their children and want a more forward-thinking approach to prepare their children to be leaders. Our Clients find that private tutoring meets demands which traditional schools cannot. Traditional classroom education doesn't agree with all students, or all families, particularly where there are special needs or circumstances involved. Students learn better when they have access to one-to-one support, a personalised curriculum, and a tutor who can recognise their strengths and incorporate them into the academic experience. The real value of a private tutor is in their ability to work with the student, in their environment, to create engaging learning activities that the student will enjoy and retain and crucially, to maximise that student's academic potential." Mr Caller adds: "We've heard the feedback from our clients and we know that students are thriving in a non-traditional learning environment, often achieving exceptional results. The one-to-one attention along with the individualised curriculum allows students to work at their own pace, in a comfortable environment, and offers them the ability to explore and focus on their own academic interests without the pressures of the classroom". Mr Caller is confident that the vast experience in private tutoring that he and his three colleagues have amassed between them over two decades makes them best placed to enlighten his audience on the many advantages of private tutoring: "Each of us has worked in the private tutoring industry for many years. This allows us to draw on our own personal and professional experiences within the private tutor sector. We will be able to offer our audience a unique perspective on the benefits of private tuition, speaking from the vantage point of Tutor and Client, as well as shedding light on Tutors International's incomparable operational and administration process. Between us, I believe we will be able to illustrate to the UHNWIs in our audience, that high-end personalised private tuition allows their child to achieve their personal potential and academic excellence in accordance with the family's lifestyle and values". Attendance at the New York Family Forum Conference The Tutors International team will present in the 'Learn from Peers' section of the programme at the Prestel & Partner's New York Family Office Forum at 3 pm on Tuesday 12th October, 2022, at the Harvard Club in New York City. If you wish to secure a place and hear them, alongside many other industry experts and leaders in UHNW sectors, you can do so by following the instructions here. About Tutors International Tutors International provides an unparalleled private tutoring service that matches the right private home tutor with the right child, in order for the student to fully reach their personal potential and academic excellence. Delivering an international private tuition service for children of all ages at different points in their educational journeys, Tutors International is founded on a commitment to finding the perfect tutor to realise the specific goals and aspirations of each student. Tutors are available for residential full-time positions, after-school assistance, and home-schooling. Founded in 1999 by Adam Caller, Tutors International is a private company based in Oxford, a city renowned for academic excellence. Our select clientele receives a personally tailored service, with discretion and confidentiality guaranteed. Contact Details Web: www.tutors-international.com Email: marketing@tutors-international.com Phone: +44 (0) 1865 435 135 Tutors International Clarendon House 52 Cornmarket Street Oxford OX1 3HJ UK Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1912822/Tutors_International.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1912821/Tutors_International_Schedule.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/699064/Tutors_International_Logo.jpg Schedule for Tutors International's presentation on 'The Advantages of Specialised Private Tuition' Tutors International Logo (PRNewsfoto/Tutors International) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-advantages-of-specialised-private-tutoring-tutors-international-announces-details-of-guest-speaker-topic-at-the-2022-prestel--partner-family-office-forum-in-new-york-301639079.html SOURCE Tutors International Company Logo Top customer recognition for technology innovation, business success and partnership in creating the connected insurance experience UNIVERSITY PARK, Ill., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Applied Systems today presented its annual Pinnacle Awards at Applied Net 2022, the worlds largest gathering of independent agents, brokers, insurers and MGAs, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN. As the companys highest customer honor, the Pinnacle Awards recognize partnerships with Applied Systems and celebrate innovative use of the companys technology in driving digital transformation for the recipients business and the broader insurance industry. The 2022 Pinnacle Award winners are Acuity Insurance Company, CalNonprofits Insurance Services, LMBF, AsurrUni & Panda7, StreetSmart Insurance Agency, and Towne Insurance. Award recipients are selected based on their embodiment of the spirit of the Pinnacle Award, including innovation in product deployment, the power of partnership, and the ability to deliver tangible business results to their organizations and the insurance industry. We are proud to announce our Pinnacle Award winners for 2022, said Taylor Rhodes, chief executive officer, Applied Systems. These are trailblazing organizations who are leading the way in delivering a more connected insurance experience by embracing digital technology that drives productivity, connectivity, intelligence and value for their customers and business. 2022 Pinnacle Award Winners Acuity Insurance was established in 1925. With more than 1,500 employees operating in 30 states, Acuity strives to be the easiest carrier to do business with through its use of digital technology. Ivans has been instrumental in this goal, helping Acuity grow their agency relationships by providing technology that makes it easier for agents to market and service clients. By automating the exchange of market appetite, Commercial and Personal Lines quotes and policy information, Acuity creates an enriching experience for their agency partners and enables new business opportunities for all their stakeholders. Story continues Founded in 1984 as a subsidiary of the California Association of Nonprofits, CalNonprofits Insurance Services insures more than 1,600 nonprofit organizations throughout California and is the only California brokerage specializing in insurance for nonprofits. CalNonprofits has invested in a robust technology strategy since 2018 to provide superior customer service and a wide spectrum of services reflecting expertise in both the insurance and nonprofit sectors. Through Applied technology, CalNonprofits has seen improved operational productivity, increased visibility and insights into prospects and customers, and greater consistency and branding of their marketing communications. This agency has fully embraced digital transformation during the pandemic and because of that, 85% of their team is fully remote, allowing CalNonprofits to hire excellent talent that they would not have been able to otherwise. CalNonprofits is always looking for ways to improve their workflows and provide the best customer service possible. LMBF, AssurUni & Panda7 collectively is one of the top insurance brokerages in Quebec and made up of three divisions, including Traditional P&C (LMBF), Independent Producers Division (AssurUni) and the Innovative Division (Panda 7). Migrating to Applied Epic in 2017 with a dozen employees, the brokerage has attracted 37 brokers to the AssuriUni division and grown to more than 80 employees with the use of Applied Digital Brokerage technology. Additionally, Panda7 was one of the first to introduce the quote and bind concept to several car dealerships with Applied technology. The brokerage is involved in RCCAQ and partners with Applied Advisory groups to push for Applied technology adoption and shares their expertise for the benefit of the industry. StreetSmart Insurance Agency is an independent, family-run agency in New Jersey, focused on helping and educating their clients throughout the insurance customer lifecycle. StreetSmart Insurance Agency has embraced EZLynx technology to provide operational insights that maximize profitability and efficiency for their business, automate repetitive tasks to perform more effectively, and tailore insurance solutions that offer a best-in-class, one-of-a-kind customer experience. The agency incorporates software to build business scalability and deliver the digital experience today's insurance employees and shoppers expect. Towne Insurance is headquartered in Southeastern Virginia and provides customized solutions for their clients across 40 offices from Virginia to South Carolina. The agency embodies the spirit of partnership with Applied, leveraging digital solutions to differentiate their business and meet the demands of todays connected agencies and consumers. By leveraging an integration with their Bank owners mortgage system, Towne went from writing 50 policies per month pre-integration to averaging 175 policies per month today from just this lead source! Theyre also true maximizers of Ivans technology, allowing them to offer the most up-to-date information to their agents. Towne is a highly engaged Applied customer who is on the front edge of technology adoption. They are pioneers in new uses of technology like implementing standard Commercial Lines quoting processes and automating their most used workflows, while sharing their technology integration story with others in the industry. The IVANS and Applied products and logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S. About Applied Systems Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the worlds largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applieds people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most. CONTACT: Lauren Malcolm Applied Systems lmalcolm@appliedsystems.com NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Traders News Source, a leading independent equity research and corporate access firm focused on small and mid-cap publicly traded companies recently issued a new audio interview with Invivyd. Toni had the pleasure of recently conducting the Interview with David Hering, Chief Executive Officer of Invivyd Inc. (NASDAQ:IVVD). Toni diligently focused on questions she thought would be on the minds of most current and potential future shareholders. See interview highlights below. Access this interview in its entirety at https://tradersnewssource.com/ivvd-interview/ Traders News Source, Monday, October 3, 2022, Press release picture David Hering CEO, Invivyd Inc. David Hering, MBA is our chief executive officer and a member of our Board of Directors. Prior to joining Invivyd, Mr. Hering served as the head of the mRNA global franchise business of Pfizer, Inc. from April 2021 to June 2021, the president of North America Vaccines of Pfizer, Inc. from December 2018 to April 2021 and the vaccines commercial officer of Pfizer, Inc. from June 2015 to December 2018. Before joining Pfizer in 2015, Mr. Hering spent seven years at Novartis Vaccines, where he held the position of head of the North America region. Mr. Hering received an MBA from Harvard Business School and a B.S. in operations research and industrial engineering from Cornell University. Interview Highlights: Traders News Source Media Coordinator Toni Loudenbeck covers the future vision for the company, recent developments with adintrevimab, recent developments with clinical trials, Invivyd's current cash position plus much more in this interview. Access this interview in its entirety at https://tradersnewssource.com/ivvd-interview/ ABOUT INVIVYD Invivyd is an antibody-based viral infectious disease company on a mission to transcend the limitations of the human immune system. The company is developing engineered antibodies to provide durable protection from viral infectious diseases, beginning with COVID-19. Working at the intersection of evolutionary virology, human immunology and predictive modeling, our discovery platform is designed to identify antibodies to target parts of the virus least pressured to mutate, thereby increasing the likelihood of sustained utility. Our product candidates are being developed for use in prevention and treatment of disease and optimized for potency and breadth of protection across strains. Story continues The Invivyd platform approach has generated a pipeline of antibody-based solutions for COVID-19 and other viral infectious diseases. This includes multiple next-generation antibodies for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, starting with NVD200, a combination product candidate expected to enter the clinic in Q1 2023. Our most advanced product candidate, adintrevimab, was shown to provide neutralizing protection against SARS-CoV-2 for all variants of concern until the emergence of the Omicron BA2 strain and its sublineages. We have applied our discovery technology to "re-engineer" adintrevimab to evolve and identify multiple next generation antibody candidates that provide broad neutralization in vitro against past and current variants of concern, including Omicron BA1, BA2, BA.4, BA.5, BA2.75 and sublineages. Invivyd is developing antibodies to transcend the limits of naturally occurring immunity and provide higher levels of protection from viral diseases, beginning with COVID-19. We are driven to change the paradigm for combatting viral infection by delivering rapid and lasting antibody immunity to protect the general public and ensure vulnerable populations are never left behind. For more information visit: https://invivyd.com/ Investor Contact: Chris Brinzey, ICR Westwicke 339-970-2843 chris.brinzey@westwicke.com About Traders News Source (TNS) Traders News Source is a leading independent equity research and corporate access firm focused on finding and reporting on the next hot stocks and market sectors prior to a significant move. TNS is also a financial news provider, focused on giving investors direct access to CEO's of promising, publicly-traded companies, and market experts. Our C-level interviews answer some of the hard-hitting questions that rest on the minds of most current and future shareholders. TNS C-level interviews provide valuable insights into the operations and management direction of some of the most promising small and mid-cap publicly traded companies. To review TNS disclosure statement please visit: https://tradersnewssource.com/ivvd-interview/ Media Contact Toni Loudenbeck Editor@TradersNewsSource.com SOURCE: Traders News Source LLC View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/718438/In-a-New-Audio-Interview-Toni-Loudenbeck-of-Traders-News-Source-Interviews-David-Hering-CEO-Invivyd-Inc NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Automotive Wheel Market by Vehicle Type and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026" report has been added to Technavio's offering. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Technavio has been partnering with more than 100 Fortune 500 companies for over 16 years. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Automotive Wheel Market 2022-2026 The potential growth difference for the automotive wheel market size between 2021 and 2026 is USD 11.20 billion. To get the exact yearly growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a FREE PDF Sample Report Company Profiles The automotive wheel market report provides complete insights on key vendors, including Accuride Corp., BBS GmbH, BORBET GmbH, Central Motor Wheel of America Inc., CITIC Ltd., CLN Coils Lamiere Nastri Spa, Enkei Corp., Foshan Nanhai Zhongnan Aluminum Wheel Co. Ltd., Fuel Off Road Wheels, Hitachi Metals Ltd., Iochpe Maxion SA, Klassic Wheels Ltd., Mangels Industrial SA, RONAL AG, Steel Strips Wheels Ltd., Topy Industries Ltd., Trelleborg AB, TSW Group, Wanfeng Group Co. Ltd., and Wheel Pros LLC. The key offerings of some of these vendors are listed below: Accuride Corp. - The company offers automotive wheels such as aluminum wheels and steel wheels. BORBET GmbH - The company offers automotive wheels such as Borbet A, Borbet B, and Borbet AE. CITIC Ltd. - The company offers automotive wheels such as aluminum wheels. Hitachi Metals Ltd. - The company offers automotive wheels, namely SCUBA Aluminum wheels. Iochpe Maxion SA - The company offers automotive wheels such as light vehicle wheels, commercial vehicle wheels, and specialty wheels. Mangels Industrial SA - The company offers automotive wheels such as aluminum wheels. RONAL AG - The company offers automotive wheels such as SL6, R70, and R66. Technavio's reports provide key strategic initiatives used by vendors, along with key news and the latest developments. View our FREE PDF Sample Report Now Competitive Analysis The competitive scenario provided in the automotive wheel market report evaluates, analyzes, and positions companies based on various performance indicators. Some of the factors considered for this analysis include growth strategies, the financial performance of companies over the past few years, new product launches, investments, product innovations, and growth in market share. Story continues Key Market Dynamics The increasing number of vehicles across the world is one of the key drivers supporting the automotive wheel market growth. However, the limitations of steel wheels are one of the factors challenging the automotive wheel market growth during the forecast period. Technavio has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help vendors improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. View our FREE PDF Sample Report Market Segmentation By geography, the market has been classified into commercial vehicles and passenger cars . The commercial vehicles segment will contribute the largest share of the market during the forecast period. By geography, the market has been classified into Europe, North America, APAC, the Middle East and Africa, and South America. Europe will have the largest share of the market during the forecast period. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a FREE PDF Sample Report Related Reports Auto Parts Market by Product and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The auto parts market size is projected to grow by USD 324.52 billion from 2021 to 2026. Automotive Active Grille Shutter Market by Application and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The automotive active grille shutter market size is projected to grow by 3160.81 thousand units from 2021 to 2026. Automotive Wheel Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.57% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 11.20 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 4.2 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution Europe at 35% Key consumer countries US, Canada, Japan, Germany, Italy, and France Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Accuride Corp., BBS GmbH, BORBET GmbH, Central Motor Wheel of America Inc., CITIC Ltd., CLN Coils Lamiere Nastri Spa, Enkei Corp., Foshan Nanhai Zhongnan Aluminum Wheel Co. Ltd., Fuel Off Road Wheels, Hitachi Metals Ltd., Iochpe Maxion SA, Klassic Wheels Ltd., Mangels Industrial SA, RONAL AG, Steel Strips Wheels Ltd., Topy Industries Ltd., Trelleborg AB, TSW Group, Wanfeng Group Co. Ltd., and Wheel Pros LLC Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and future consumer dynamics, and 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 Consumer Discretionary Market Reports Key Topics Covered 1 Executive Summary 1.1 Market overview 2 Market Landscape 2.1 Market ecosystem 3 Market Sizing 3.1 Market definition 3.2 Market segment analysis 3.3 Market size 2021 3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026 4 Five Forces Analysis 4.1 Five forces summary 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers 4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers 4.4 Threat of new entrants 4.5 Threat of substitutes 4.6 Threat of rivalry 4.7 Market condition 5 Market Segmentation by Vehicle Type 5.1 Market segments 5.2 Comparison by Vehicle Type 5.3 Commercial vehicles - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.4 Passenger cars - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.5 Market opportunity by Vehicle Type 6 Customer Landscape 6.1 Customer landscape overview 7 Geographic Landscape 7.1 Geographic segmentation 7.2 Geographic comparison 7.3 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.4 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.6 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.7 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.9 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.10 Italy - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.11 Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.12 Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.13 France - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.14 Market opportunity by geography 8 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 8.1 Market drivers 8.2 Market challenges 8.3 Impact of drivers and challenges 8.4 Market trends 9 Vendor Landscape 9.1 Overview 9.2 Vendor landscape 9.3 Landscape disruption 9.4 Industry risks 10 Vendor Analysis 10.1 Vendors covered 10.2 Market positioning of vendors 10.3 Accuride Corp. 10.4 BORBET GmbH 10.5 CITIC Ltd. 10.6 Hitachi Metals Ltd. 10.7 Iochpe Maxion SA 10.8 Mangels Industrial SA 10.9 RONAL AG 10.10 Steel Strips Wheels Ltd. 10.11 Topy Industries Ltd. 10.12 Wanfeng Group Co. Ltd. 11 Appendix 11.1 Scope of the report 11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist 11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ 11.4 Research methodology 11.5 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: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Global Automotive Wheel Market 2022-2026 Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/automotive-wheel-market-to-record-a-cagr-of-4-57-accuride-corp-and-borbet-gmbh-among-key-vendors---technavio-301636655.html SOURCE Technavio NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / As students around the world head back to school, I have been thinking about how much effort it really takes to be ready for school. As anyone who has ever been to school knows, preparing for that first day of school each year requires physical, mental and emotional preparation. Raising a child takes a whole village, and everyone in a community has a role to play in supporting our youth, including corporations. Keysight Technologies, Monday, October 3, 2022, Press release picture At Keysight the way we engage with students on their educational journey reflects the values of our Keysight Leadership Model, specifically, our emphasis on acting as One Keysight and championing Social Responsibility. I recently had the opportunity to check in with my Keysight colleagues around the world to learn about some of the ways we as a company are helping students this back-to-school season, and I was pleased to learn of the many ways we invest in our communities to help students get ready for school. In India, Keysight supported building school infrastructure in three rural villages, which enabled a phenomenal increase in enrollments and getting students back to school. Keysight India also commissioned a first-of-its-kind solar powered smart classroom and computer lab set up in two rural in two rural government schools, bringing modern and interactive learning methodologies to students in the region. In Malaysia, Keysight employees held a Back-to-School Donation Drive to help children get ready for the new school year. They raised money to benefit students from six charitable homes in Penang to purchase uniforms, school bags, and shoes. In Spain, Keysight employees collaborate with an association that takes care of students at social risk of exclusion to support mental stability in their return to the school environment. Here in the U.S. at our corporate headquarters in Santa Rosa, CA, Keysight sponsored a Children's Shopping Spree event that distributed free back to school supplies for students to better equip them for their first day of school. The goal of the event was to help students start the new year with confidence and the tools necessary for success, while offering some relief for parents who may struggle to meet the added financial burden of purchasing back to school supplies and clothes for their kids. Story continues Keysight supports the critical work of educating the next generation by engaging with programs readying students for success. Whether through building infrastructure, donating funds for school fees, sponsoring school supply drives, or supporting social emotional learning Keysight's investments in education are helping communities prepare for the future. There is an ongoing need for collaboration between communities, schools, businesses, and social service groups to ensure that all children have access to quality education. Looking at the various ways Keysight supports educational programs around the world gives me hope for the next generations. Regardless of whether we have children of our own, we are all invested in the outcomes for students in our communities. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Keysight Technologies on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Keysight Technologies Website: https://www.keysight.com/us/en/home.html Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Keysight Technologies View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/718489/Back-to-School-How-Keysight-Supports-Student-Success Borislow Insurance Borislow Insurance and Captivated Health are pleased to announce that Bianca Saul, JD, and Chris Bock have been promoted to Vice President and will serve on the companys Executive Leadership Team METHUEN, Mass., Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- It is our genuine pleasure to announce two very well-earned promotions, effective immediately. Bianca Saul, JD, and Chris Bock have been promoted to Vice President of their respective practices and will serve on the companys Executive Leadership Team. Agency Principals Jennifer Borislow and Mark Gaunya said, We are pleased to recognize the talents and leadership of two of our firms outstanding leaders. Bianca Saul, JD, joined Borislow Insurance nine years ago and has led our Compliance Practice's development and growth, taking it from an individual contributor role to a fully formed department of four with a well-defined approach to our client compliance needs. She also leads our Engagement Committee and participates actively in the Organizational Excellence, Talent Management, Technology, Expanded Leadership, and Finance committees. Bianca and her team significantly support our overall team and our clients with all their compliance needs and concerns. Bianca has her JD, SHRM-SCP, and MBA and is licensed to practice in MA, NY, and NH. We are fortunate to have her represent us on legislative committees with the National Association of Health Underwriters and The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers. With more than 18 years of underwriting leadership experience, Chris Bock joined Borislow Insurance in late 2017, building our firms Risk Management Practice from the ground up. In addition to the exceptional development of his team, Chris has set the standard for our proactive approach and client deliverables related to the retention, sharing, and transferring of their medical and prescription risk. Chris background includes serving as the Regional Underwriting Consultant at Marsh & McLennan Agency Northeast, overseeing the building of the regions underwriting division and all financially-based client needs and projects. He was also the Underwriting Team Lead at both Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Connecticut and Oxford Health Plans, a subsidiary of United Healthcare. He holds a Bachelors in Communication from Fairfield University. Story continues Borislow Insurance and its growing community of like-minded employers in Captivated Health provide clients nationwide with customized employee benefits solutions. Our firm is among the fastest growing and most respected of its kind, predicated on more than 40 years of unwavering commitment to client service. Our team of experts provides insights and services on a full range of health & welfare subjects, including group benefits, risk management; healthcare cost and transparency solutions; compliance; technology; communication tools, HR consulting, healthcare reform, personal financial wellbeing, and much more. Contact: David A. Saltzman Borislow Insurance & Captivated Health www.borislow.com / www.captivatedhealth.com 1 Griffin Brook Drive, Methuen, MA 01844 Phone: 978-722-1110 "In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Radiologists are urging Canadian women 40 years and over to schedule their annual breast screening exam." OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among Canadian women. Although now more than ever people are surviving breast cancer, early detection through screening is vital. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk, however, the reality is there are other factors such as family history that can impact the onset of cancer. For Canadian women this is especially true with breast cancer. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Radiologists are urging Canadian women 40 years and over to schedule their annual breast screening exam. (CNW Group/Canadian Association of Radiologists) "One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Considering these odds, women should take an active role in their health," said Dr. Carolyn Flegg, Breast Imaging Radiologist and Medical Director of Breast Screening, Saskatchewan. The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) recommends that women 40 and older have an annual screening exam. This can help with early detection of disease and improve overall patient outcomes. During the pandemic thousands of non-urgent procedures were postponed, minimizing the further spread of COVID, however this resulted in many Canadian patients facing uncertainty regarding their health. Ewa Hodges from Toronto, Ontario knows firsthand the importance of medical imaging for cancer care. In 2020, Ewa was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. She underwent surgery and treatment, and in the year that followed, she needed follow-up imaging to monitor her condition. When the pandemic caused many facilities to cancel or delay scheduled services, Ewa's follow-up imaging was cancelled because it was deemed not urgent. Despite having a very aggressive form of cancer, she was not able to access the tests she needed. "When cancers are caught early, less aggressive therapies can be used, and treatments are more likely to succeed. Because of advancements in diagnostics and treatment, more people are surviving cancer. However, as the number of cancer cases in Canada continue to increase, our healthcare system faces increasing demand for cancer services, including diagnostic imaging. This demand has only increased with delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we build back from the impacts of the pandemic, rapid access to medical imaging procedures for those suspected of having cancer must be prioritized. People in Canada deserve equitable access to cancer diagnostic services, regardless of where they live." - Kelly Masotti, Vice President of Advocacy, Canadian Cancer Society Story continues "The world was not ready for the magnitude of this global health crisis. Fast forward two and a half years later and, we are in a much better position to deal with COVID. Safety protocols have been well established to keep patients safe, and the majority of Canadians have been fully vaccinated. Mammography centres are prepared to manage COVID risks and to serve patients who are awaiting live saving screening exams," said Dr. Flegg. There are, however, challenges in terms of timely access to breast screening, diagnostic mammography and biopsies. With the influx of patients entering the health system and limited radiology health human resources it is increasingly challenging to serve patients in an expedited manner. It should also be noted that there is a shortage of medical imaging equipment in Canada on a per capita basis. Also, much of the equipment is old 30% of medical imaging equipment is over 10 years old, which does not meet the international life cycle equipment standards. The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) is advocating for improved access to medical imaging for Canadians. A series of recommendations were put forward to the Federal government for the sustainability of radiology now and into the future. The CAR is asking for an increased investment in medical imaging equipment and health human resources to better address patients' needs and to reduce wait times across the country for medical imaging procedures. More information regarding this recommendation and others can be found in the 2023 CAR Pre-Budget Submission. In the spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the CAR is encouraging women who are 40 and over, and who have not yet booked their annual screening exams, to do so today. The consequences of not screening can result in an increase of undiagnosed breast cancers, ultimately affecting survival outcomes. Breast screening is the single most important thing that women can do to reduce the instance of advanced breast cancer. "Early detection is key. For women who are treated early, when tumors are 2cm or smaller and have not spread to the lymph nodes, there is an over 95% 5-year survival rate. Patients can schedule a mammogram through self-referral to a provincial screening program or through their health care provider," said Dr. Flegg. SOURCE Canadian Association of Radiologists Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2022/03/c1800.html International Monetary Fund (IMF) will set up a regional office in Riyadh. This will spearhead engagement with regional institutions, strengthen relationships with country authorities, and help expand the IMFs capacity development activities, said IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. At end of a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia, she congratulated the authorities on Saudi Arabias strong economic performance and impressive progress in implementing its Vision 2030 reform agenda, notably the doubling of the share of women in the labour force in just four years. She said in a statement: It has been a great pleasure to once again visit Riyadh to deepen the cooperation between the IMF and Saudi Arabia as well as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), especially in responding to the global series of shocks, including food insecurity. I congratulated the authorities on Saudi Arabias strong economic performance and impressive progress in implementing their Vision 2030 reform agenda, notably the doubling of the share of women in the labor force in just four years. Maintaining the reform momentum to further diversify the economy will be pivotal for longer-term prosperity. This was an area of strong agreement echoed in my meetings with Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Finance Mohammed Al-Jadaan, Central Bank Governor Fahad Al-Mubarak, Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih, Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim, and Management of the Public Investment Fund. I also held inspiring discussions with impressive Saudi women who have played a leading role in reducing inequalities and supporting Saudi Arabias economic growth. In all our discussions, I welcomed the critical role Saudi Arabia plays on the international level, and in particular its role in supporting countries in the region and vulnerable countries more broadly that have been impacted by multiple shocks from the COVID-19 pandemic and now Russias war in Ukraine. We also had productive discussions about the existential threat of climate change and the vital importance of an orderly energy transition. I am also grateful for the Saudi hosts inviting me to participate in the annual meeting of GCC finance ministers and central bank governors. Discussions at todays meeting were exceptionally constructive. We agreed on the need to continue dialogue on the ongoing economic reforms in the region and to enhance our coordination efforts to support countries in the region and tackle global crises. As part of the GCC meeting, I also participated in a high-level panel on tackling food insecurity together with Saudi Finance Minister Al-Jadaan, Mauritanias Minister of Economic Affairs and Promotion of Production Sectors Ousmane Kane, Executive Director of the World Food Program David Beasley, and Islamic Development Bank President Muhammad Al-Jasser. The event was co-hosted by Saudi Arabia, reflecting its leadership role in addressing this critical challenge. We underscored the increasing urgency for an effective and coordinated global response and additional financing to support low- and middle-income countries facing food insecurity." Georgieva said IMF was grateful for the Arab Coordination Groups recent announcement to provide an initial $10 billion to alleviate the global food supply crisis and she was extremely pleased that several GCC countries are planning to make further pledges soon. For its part, the IMF has just launched a new food security window under our existing emergency financing programs to help provide additional funds to those countries most affected by the current food crisis. Discussions on global efforts to address food insecurity will be continued at our upcoming IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings on October 10-16 in Washington, D.C. Finally, my visit marked another important milestone in our partnership with the region. We are taking our cooperation to a new level by establishing an IMF regional office in Riyadh. It will spearhead engagement with regional institutions, strengthen relationships with country authorities, and help expand the IMFs capacity development activitieswhich will make it one of the largest contributors globally. I would like to thank the government of Saudi Arabia for its generous commitment to investing in building capacity in countries across the region, Georgieva said. -TradeArabia News Service Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP BROOKFIELD, NEWS, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brookfield Infrastructure Partners will hold its third quarter 2022 conference call and webcast on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. (ET). Results will be released that morning before 7:00 a.m. (ET) and will be available on our website at https://bip.brookfield.com/bip. Participants can join by conference call or webcast: Conference Call Please pre-register by conference call: https://register.vevent.com/register/BIb02b1f835b0b4db6829a3dcea3a8352c Upon registering, you will be emailed a dial-in number, direct passcode and unique PIN. This process will bypass the operator and avoid the queue. Webcast Please join and register by webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/kpw9c52e About Brookfield Infrastructure Brookfield Infrastructure is a leading global infrastructure company that owns and operates high-quality, long-life assets in the utilities, transport, midstream and data sectors across North and South America, Asia Pacific and Europe. We are focused on assets that generate stable cash flows and require minimal maintenance capital expenditures. Investors can access its portfolio either through Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (NYSE: BIP; TSX: BIP.UN), a Bermuda-based limited partnership, or Brookfield Infrastructure Corporation (NYSE, TSX: BIPC), a Canadian corporation. Further information is available at www.brookfield.com/infrastructure. Brookfield Infrastructure is the flagship listed infrastructure company of Brookfield Asset Management, a global alternative asset manager with over $750 billion of assets under management. For more information, go to www.brookfield.com. Contact Information Media Sebastien Bouchard Vice President, Communications Tel: +1 (416) 943-7937 Email: sebastien.bouchard@brookfield.com Investor Relations Stephen Fukuda Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations Tel: +1 (416) 956-5129 Email: stephen.fukuda@brookfield.com Current Chief Executive Officer, Chris Johnston, embarks on a new journey with Microsoft Canada. FREDERICTON, NB, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Bulletproof, a GLI company, announced today that company founder, Steven Burns, is returning to Bulletproof as President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), with an official start date of October 14, 2022. Bulletproof, a GLI company (CNW Group/Bulletproof, A GLI Company) Steven Burns founded Bulletproof in 2000 and served as its CEO until February 2020 when he moved into the role of Chairman/Advisor. Bulletproof, a technology, security, and compliance organization, has earned numerous accolades including global recognition from Microsoft as Security Partner of the Year in 2021. "When we dreamed up Bulletproof, some 20-plus years ago, I never imagined we would be where we are today," said Burns. "I am especially proud of the work the Bulletproof team accomplished during a global pandemic. They rose to every challenge and walked away stronger, earning multiple prestigious awards along the way," said Burns. "I am looking forward to continuing this tremendous path of growth and am grateful to everyone that has contributed to the company's success. I cannot wait to see where we are in another 20-plus years from now." "While I am excited to begin my new role with Microsoft Canada, it is difficult to leave the amazing Bulletproof Team", said Bulletproof's Chief Executive Officer, Chris Johnston. "As I pass the torch back to Steve, I do so with full confidence that he and the team will continue to drive growth and reach new levels of success. We are working closely together to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible for our employees and our customers." James Maida, President and CEO of the GLI Group (GLI), the parent company of Bulletproof said, "It's not often that a transition for such a senior role can work out this smoothly. Chris Johnston made significant contributions to the growth of Bulletproof, and we'll always be grateful for his unfaltering leadership. To have Steven return to Bulletproof as President and COO is a great scenario for us. I'm looking forward to continuing our strong relationship and expanding Bulletproof together." Story continues About Bulletproof: Headquartered in Canada with locations across the United States and around the globe, Bulletproof has decades of technology, security, and compliance expertise, protecting its clients' most valuable assets. The company's footprint now includes users on six continents; trusting Bulletproof to secure their identities, networks, data, and devices. Named Microsoft's global Security Partner of the Year in 2021 for delivering excellence and innovative end-to-end security solutions and five Microsoft Canada Impact Award wins from 2019 to present-day . Bulletproof is proud to be a long-standing Microsoft Gold Partner with twelve gold competencies, a member of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA), and holder of the Microsoft Threat Protection Advanced Specialization. For more information on Bulletproof visit our website ( bulletproofsi.com ) and join us on LinkedIn , Twitter , and Facebook . Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bulletproof-founder-steven-burns-to-rejoin-bulletproof-as-president-and-chief-operating-officer-301638864.html SOURCE Bulletproof, A GLI Company Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc ST HELIER, Jersey, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc (NYSE AMERICAN: CMCL; AIM: CMCL; VFEX: CMCL) (Caledonia or the Company) is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of 14 United States cents (US$0.14) on each of the Company's shares. Highlights Company on track to hit target production of 73,000 to 80,000 ounces of gold in 2022. On 21 July 2022, Caledonia announced that it had signed an agreement to purchase Bilboes Gold Limited. Caledonia will restart the oxides operation at Bilboes under the terms of a tribute arrangement with a view to creating a cash-generative operation within approximately six months. The Companys strategy is focused on becoming a multi-asset gold producer. Caledonia continues to evaluate investment opportunities in Zimbabwe. Commenting on the announcement, Mark Learmonth, Chief Executive Officer, said: Gold production so far this year has been strong, exceeding our expectations, and we are on track to hit the top end of our guidance range of 73,000 to 80,000 ounces. In July, Caledonia announced that it had signed an agreement to purchase Bilboes Gold Limited, which is the holding company for a large, high-grade, open-pittable gold resource. The completion of the transaction is subject to several conditions, which we are currently working on, but once achieved we can prepare a feasibility study to identify the most judicious way to commercialise the project with regard to the availability of funding on acceptable terms. Three years ago the Company was paying less than half the current quarterly dividend and at the current share price, the annualised dividend equates to a yield of approximately 6%. The dividend continues to be a central part of our strategy, as we continue to manage returning money to shareholders with production growth and de-risking the business from being a single asset producer. I would like to thank the team for their continued hard work; this is an exciting time for the business as we pivot the Company towards our long-term vision of becoming a multi asset gold producer. Story continues The relevant dates relating to the dividend are as follows: Ex-dividend date VFEX: October 12, 2022 Ex-dividend date AIM and NYSE: October 13, 2022 Record date: October 14, 2022 Payment date: October 28, 2022 Shareholders with a registered address in the UK will be paid in Sterling. Caledonia's Dividend Policy Caledonia's strategy to maximise shareholder value includes a quarterly dividend policy which the Board adopted in 2014. The Board will consider future increases in the dividend as appropriate in line with its prudent approach to risk management. Enquiries: Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc Mark Learmonth Camilla Horsfall Tel: +44 1534 679 800 Tel: +44 7817 841 793 Cenkos Securities plc (Nomad and Joint Broker) Adrian Hadden Neil McDonald Pearl Kellie Tel: +44 207 397 1965 Tel: +44 131 220 9771 Tel: +44 131 220 9775 Liberum Capital Limited (Joint Broker) Scott Mathieson/Kane Collings Tel: +44 20 3100 2000 BlytheRay Financial PR (UK) Tim Blythe/Megan Ray Tel: +44 207 138 3204 3PPB (Financial PR, North America) Patrick Chidley Paul Durham Tel: +1 917 991 7701 Tel: +1 203 940 2538 Curate Public Relations (Zimbabwe) Debra Tatenda Tel: +263 77802131 IH Securities (Private) Limited (VFEX Sponsor - Zimbabwe) Lloyd Mlotshwa Tel: +263 (242) 745 119/33/39 [1] Refer to the technical report entitled Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Blanket Gold Mine, Zimbabwe dated May 17, 2021 prepared by Minxcon (Pty) Ltd and filed by the Company on SEDAR on May 26, 2021. Mr Dana Roets (B Eng (Min.), MBA, Pr.Eng., FSAIMM, AMMSA), Chief Operating Officer, is the Company's qualified person as defined by Canada's National Instrument 43-101 and has approved any scientific or technical information contained in this news release. Note: This announcement contains inside information which is disclosed in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 (MAR) as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 and is disclosed in accordance with the Company's obligations under Article 17 of MAR. Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Information Information and statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation that involve risks and uncertainties relating, but not limited, to Caledonias current expectations, intentions, plans, and beliefs. Forward-looking information can often be identified by forward-looking words such as anticipate, believe, expect, goal, plan, target, intend, estimate, could, should, may and will or the negative of these terms or similar words suggesting future outcomes, or other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future events or performance. Examples of forward-looking information in this news release include: production guidance, estimates of future/targeted production rates, and our plans and timing regarding further exploration and drilling and development. This forward-looking information is based, in part, on assumptions and factors that may change or prove to be incorrect, thus causing actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking information. Such factors and assumptions include, but are not limited to: failure to establish estimated resources and reserves, the grade and recovery of ore which is mined varying from estimates, success of future exploration and drilling programs, reliability of drilling, sampling and assay data, assumptions regarding the representativeness of mineralization being inaccurate, success of planned metallurgical test-work, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects and other factors. Security holders, potential security holders and other prospective investors should be aware that these statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: risks relating to estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources proving to be inaccurate, fluctuations in gold price, risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, risks relating to the credit worthiness or financial condition of suppliers, refiners and other parties with whom the Company does business; inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks and hazards, employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; political risk; risks related to natural disasters, terrorism, civil unrest, public health concerns (including health epidemics or outbreaks of communicable diseases such as the coronavirus (COVID-19)); availability and increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining or maintaining necessary licenses and permits, diminishing quantities or grades of mineral reserves as mining occurs; global financial condition, the actual results of current exploration activities, changes to conclusions of economic evaluations, and changes in project parameters to deal with unanticipated economic or other factors, risks of increased capital and operating costs, environmental, safety or regulatory risks, expropriation, the Companys title to properties including ownership thereof, increased competition in the mining industry for properties, equipment, qualified personnel and their costs, risks relating to the uncertainty of timing of events including targeted production rate increase and currency fluctuations. Security holders, potential security holders and other prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. By its nature, forward-looking information involves numerous assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and various future events will not occur. Caledonia undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or other such factors which affect this information, except as required by law. This news release is not an offer of the shares of Caledonia for sale in the United States or elsewhere. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the shares of Caledonia, in any province, state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such province, state or jurisdiction. Shared ambition unites communities from coast-to-coast-to-coast TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - CIBC announced today that more than 45,000 Canadians, including nearly 10,000 team members from across the country came together on October 2nd around a shared ambition to create a future without breast cancer. In total, more than $13 million was raised to help advance breast cancer research, education and support programs including over $2 million by Team CIBC. Nearly 10,000 Team CIBC members joined Canadians across the country on October 2, 2022 in support of the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure. Team CIBC raised an estimated $2.3 million for breast cancer research and support. (Courtesy: CIBC) (CNW Group/CIBC) "The energy felt across our communities on Run day was incredible," says Laura Dottori-Attanasio, Group Head, Personal and Business Banking, CIBC and Executive Run Sponsor. "For the first time since 2019, Canadians united together in person across the country to show our unwavering commitment to help change the future of breast cancer. We are so thankful to our team members, clients and Canadians who step up year after year to support such an important cause." For more than two decades, the Canadian Cancer Society and CIBC have created a movement that unites communities across the country to raise funds for support programs and research that enable better treatment and better outcomes for those affected by breast cancer. "We are thrilled that after hosting the event virtually for the past two years, we were able to bring communities across the country back together at this year's Run. The day is a powerful reminder of the impact we've made, together with our supporters, over the last 31 years," says Andrea Seale, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Cancer Society. "Because of our collective focus and investment in breast cancer research, the survival rates for breast cancer have improved. With our dedicated and visionary partner CIBC, volunteering, fundraising and running along side us, we are one step closer to ensuring those facing breast cancer live long, healthy lives." As title sponsor of the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure for 26 years, Team CIBC has raised more than $60 million through pledges, donations, and fundraising initiatives across the country. Story continues This year, CIBC also introduced an e-card for Canadians to send to the person inspiring them to Run. The bank will donate $5 to the Canadian Cancer Society for every e-card sent through to October 16, 2022, up to $100,000. CIBC and the CIBC Foundation continue to support communities year-round through fundraising, donations and volunteering. About the Canadian Cancer Society The Canadian Cancer Society works tirelessly to save and improve lives. We fund the brightest minds in cancer research. We provide a compassionate support system for all those affected by cancer, from coast to coast and for all types of cancer. As the voice for Canadians who care about cancer, we work with governments to establish health policies to prevent cancer and better support those living with the disease. No other organization does all that we do to improve lives today and to change the future of cancer forever. Visit cancer.ca for more information. About CIBC CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with 13 million personal banking, business, public sector and institutional clients. Through the CIBC Foundation and the genuinely caring culture of Team CIBC, we are committed to helping people and our communities make their ambitions a reality. Learn more about our community impact. Ongoing news releases and more information about CIBC can be found at https://www.cibc.com/en/about-cibc/media-centre.html. SOURCE CIBC Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2022/03/c0361.html Canadian National Railway Company Comprehensive Plan guided by four objectives: operating safely, delivering the best possible service, increasing network productivity, and improving resilience MONTREAL, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) today published its 2022-2023 Winter Plan. The Plan sets out a wide range of initiatives to ensure CN has the capacity and resources to respond safely and efficiently to the needs of customers in the coming winter months. Since joining CN in March, I have focused our team on servicing our customers needs by getting back to basics. This means running a scheduled operation, aligning capacity with demand and working closely with our customers and stakeholders to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of the full supply chain. This Plan reflects that focus. It reviews core aspects of CNs operations: how safety and greater efficiency work together; how we plan with customers to deliver service during winter on a sector-by-sector basis; how we invest to improve productivity; and, how we mobilize people and resources to enhance the resilience of our network. The steps outlined in this plan will help ensure a more efficient and resilient CN network and an increasingly reliable and resilient supply chain. Tracy Robinson, chief executive officer, CN Highlights of New Initiatives People: CNs overall employee count increased by 850 people as of the end of June, compared to the the beginning of the year, primarily in the Companys operating crew ranks. 500 additional new conductors will graduate through the end of 2022. Rail operating managers who are rules-qualified will be available to protect rail traffic movement and support operations during challenging winter operating conditions. Locomotives: CN has acquired an incremental 57 high-horsepower locomotives. This brings CNs inventory of high- and mid-horsepower locomotives to approximately 1,950 locomotives. Rolling Stock: 800 new boxcars will be delivered in early 2023, and 500 high-efficiency hopper cars will be delivered during the 202223 crop year. Planning: CN has implemented scheduled slots for bulk unit trains in key corridors to increase rail capacity and velocity. Technology: Acoustic bearing detectors deployed at five locations across the network will reduce failures online. CNs third-generation automated track inspection program fleet cars were launched in advance of this winter, reducing risks of rail-related incidents. Story continues For more information on CNs Winter Plan, Please download the complete plan here. About CN CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade-enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. As the only railroad connecting Canadas Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 18,600-mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Contacts: Media Investment Community Jonathan Abecassis Paul Butcher Senior Manager Vice-President Media Relations Investor Relations (438) 455-3692 media@cn.ca (514) 399-0052 investor.relations@cn.ca Disney stations including ABC, ESPN, FX and Disney Channel are back on Dish and Sling TV after the two parties reached a tentative agreement, Deadline has reported. A total of 17 Disney channels disappeared from the services on Friday, October 1st over a carriage disagreement. "We have reached a handshake agreement with Dish/Sling TV, which properly reflects fair market value and terms for The Walt Disney Companys... content," a Disney spokesperson said in a statement. "As a result, we are pleased to restore our portfolio of networks on a temporary basis while both parties work to finalize a new deal." Dish had accused Disney of holding "viewers hostage for negotiation leverage, claiming that it wanted to include ESPN and ESPN2 into non-sports packages." At the same time, Disney said Dish failed to give it a fair offer to keep ESPN and National Geographic on Dish/Sling TV. "After months of negotiating in good faith, Dish has declined to reach a fair, market-based agreement with us for continued distribution of our networks," the company told Variety in a statement on Friday. Last year, Disney channels vanished from YouTube TV in December over a similar dispute, but returned just a day later. Meanwhile, HBO and Cinemax went dark on Dish in 2018, and only reappeared last year (along with HBO Max). As of Q2 2022, Dish and Sling TV had around 10 million US subscribers combined, according to Statista. New name and identity support the company's recent growth and strategic vision while marking an inspiring next chapter for the rapidly emerging agency. Featured Image for Truelio Featured Image for Truelio ATLANTA, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dynamic Marketing Systems (DMS), a leading brand experience, digital marketing and technology transformation agency, announced today it is changing its corporate name to Truelio and has unveiled a new visual identity, new website, and refreshed positioning. The launch follows a year-long initiative designed to create a new brand identity that embodies the agency's renewed sense of purpose, energy and enthusiasm, while capturing its unique culture and nearly two decades of success partnering with many of the world's leading brands. "This rebrand has been an exciting transformational process for us. As we grew, the DMS name no longer captured the essence of who we were at our core. The transition to Truelio is an initial step in a new and exciting chapter of our company," said John Kauffman, Truelio's CEO & president. "Truelio is a relationship-based firm, driven by the success of our partners. We use our expertise and insight to elevate our partner capabilities and in turn, their very own customer experiences," Kauffman said. "We push for our partners to be the true hero and successfully stand out among the rest. We understand that great partnerships lead to great things and that means being true to our purpose, one another and our partner promise. We're thrilled to introduce the uniqueness that Truelio brings to the marketplace - where passion meets purpose." Today's announcement marks another milestone in the evolution of Truelio. Earlier this year, the agency expanded through its merger with Muse Marketing + Creative, a Wilmington, Delaware-based full-service strategic marketing and brand experience agency. Since the merger, the company has also expanded its in-house creative and account services teams. Story continues Visit www.truelio.com to explore the new website and brand, and learn more about the company's experience, capabilities and broad suite of brand experience, digital marketing, creative, and technology solutions. About Truelio Truelio, formerly Dynamic Marketing Systems (DMS), is a premier full-service brand experience, digital marketing and technology transformation agency. Based in Atlanta (GA) with a growing footprint across the U.S., we are a collective group of creative strategists, brand specialists and digital experts. For over two decades, our partnership-based culture has helped many of the world's leading brands deliver extraordinary experiences that inspire growth and make a difference in the lives of their customers. Visit www.truelio.com to explore the new website and brand, and learn more about the company's experience, capabilities and broad suite of brand experience, digital marketing, creative, and technology solutions. Contact Information: Randy Dawson Chief Marketing Officer randy.dawson@truelio.com 770-407-6302 Related Images Image 1 This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. Attachment Shots missed during pandemic need to be caught up quickly to prevent future serious illnesses, including meningitis and cancer TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - The Federation of Medical Women of Canada (FMWC) is calling on the Government of Ontario to take additional steps to further expand programs to alleviate the crisis of missed routine immunizations of school children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Federation of Medical Women of Canada (CNW Group/Federation of Medical Women of Canada) School vaccinations are used to prevent many serious illnesses such as meningitis and cancer, not only during school years, but throughout an individual's life. One of the important vaccines is against human papillomavirus (HPV) which is the cause of nine out of 10 cases of cervical cancer in women, and causes other cancers in both men and women.1 However, as of the 2020-21 school year, only one per cent of 12-year-olds in Ontario were up to date with their immunization against HPV, due in large part to school vaccination programs being disrupted by the pandemic. The HPV vaccination rate is the lowest of the three major school-based vaccination programs monitored by Public Health Ontario. The others, for hepatitis B and meningococcal meningitis (MCV4), are both at 17 per cent.2 By comparison, the rates for 17-year-olds who received school-based vaccinations prior to the pandemic were 94 per cent for MCV4, 77 per cent for hepatitis B and 63 per cent for HPV, indicating how much work is needed to catch up.3 The latter rate of HPV vaccination was well below Canada's international commitment of achieving a target of 90 per cent vaccination of young people for HPV. The week of October 3 is HPV Prevention Week in Canada and the FMWC is encouraging the Ontario government to act: "Don't let our children fall through the cracks help prevent HPV and cancer now!" The government has put in place a preliminary plan and invested in public health to help address missed vaccinations. However, more can be done and the FMWC is calling upon the Ontario government to better support health system stakeholders to ensure all eligible school children are able to receive HPV vaccinations. Story continues The great speed of and the lessons from the success of the COVID-19 vaccination program should be leveraged to solve this new public health vaccination issue, including wider access to vaccines in non-traditional locations, strong public communications and an enhanced immunization registry accessible to all health care providers like the COVAX system. All of these tools should be harnessed again for HPV vaccinations and the FMWC is calling for the government to implement the following key steps in collaboration with health system stakeholders: Adopt HPV vaccination targets and monitor: Set clear catch-up goals and ensure effective tracking of progress to achieve them. Facilitate access to HPV vaccinations and track: Expand the HPV vaccination program to high schools to allow students who missed shots to catch up, allow pharmacists to deliver the vaccinations and track progress through a new centralized electronic immunization registry. Communicate: Implement a robust and coordinated communications plan to increase public awareness of the need for vaccinations and how to get them. "Building on the success of the COVID-19 vaccination program, we can do better and ensure children are caught up with the vaccines they missed during the pandemic," said Dr. Vivien Brown, a Toronto family physician who is Chair of the HPV Immunization Task Force and Board Member of Immunize Canada. "We have an opportunity to achieve a high HPV immunization rate. This will protect our children and our healthcare system from paying a very heavy price in the future. If we immunize now, we prevent cancer and other serious diseases." It appears Ontarians are anxious to be given the tools to meet this challenge. A recent survey of Ontario parents with children aged 10 to 18 showed they are worried about the issue with more than three-quarters (77 per cent) saying they are somewhat or very concerned about the vaccines their children have missed at school.4 "While COVID-19 was the cause of the slipping in our HPV and other school vaccination programs, it also shows us what we need to do, and can do, to solve it," said Liz Ellwood, a cervical cancer survivor from Ottawa and long-time advocate for HPV education and vaccination. "We really can spare our children from having HPV-related cancers if the Ontario government, the medical community, schools and parents all work together and urgently to ensure they get vaccinated as they should." As part of HPV Prevention Week, the FMWC is supporting, along with Merck Canada Inc., a Longwoods Leadership Discussion with clinicians and public health experts on this important public health issue on Monday, October 3, 1:30-2:30pm (EDT). For more information and to register to this event, which will be moderated by The Globe and Mail's health news reporter Kelly Grant, visit: https://bit.ly/3xGcx2u. A recording of the event will also be posted to Longwoods YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/longwoodstv About the Federation of Medical Women of Canada The Federation of Medical Women of Canada (FMWC) is a national organization committed to the professional, social and personal advancement of women physicians and to the promotion of the well-being of women both in the medical profession and in society at large. Founded almost 100 years ago and with branches across the country, FMWC seeks to be the networking and professional development home for all Canadian women in the medical profession while being the preeminent advocate for women's health across Canada. For details visit fmwc.ca. REFERENCES 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (February 2022); Cancers caused by HPV: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/cancer.html#:~:text=Cervical%20cancer%20and%20HPV,diagnosed%20with%20a%20cervical%20precancer 2 Public Health Ontario, Surveillance Report Immunization Coverage Report for School-Based Programs in Ontario: 2019-20 and 2020-21 School Years: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/i/2021/immunization-coverage-2019-2021.pdf?sc_lang=en 3 Public Health Ontario, Surveillance Report Immunization Coverage Report for School-Based Programs in Ontario: 2019-20 and 2020-21 School Years: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/i/2021/immunization-coverage-2019-2021.pdf?sc_lang=en 4 19toZero, School, School-based vaccine survey, August 2022, Slide #15, https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vS6xry9wa6oRhE4yVAWrSdBCVNXRQkY4vZiw5A4LQmZr1Xtf8G1FhJbXFWuMF8tJg/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=10000&slide=id.g144139532ea_0_91 SOURCE Federation of Medical Women of Canada Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2022/03/c7216.html NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the report "Emergency Food Market by Product Type, Distribution Channel, and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026", the market will witness a YOY growth of 6.97% in 2022 and a CAGR of 7.23% during the forecast period. The report is segmented by product type (ready-to-eat meals, non-perishable pasteurized milk, infant food, dried food, and others), distribution channel (offline and online), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa). Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Emergency Food Market 2022-2026 Technavio provides a comprehensive report summary describing the market size and forecast along with research methodology. The FREE sample report is available in PDF format Key Segment Analysis The ready-to-eat meals segment will be the largest contributor to market growth during the forecast period. Ready-to-eat food items are pre-cooked, pre-cleaned, packaged, and made ready for consumption without any requirement for prior cooking or preparation. This growth of this segment is attributed to factors such as the increasing number of working women, the growing Millennial population, on-the-go consumption habits, and busy work schedules. To know additional highlights and key points on various market segments and their impact in coming years, View our FREE PDF Sample Report Geographical Market Analysis North America will provide maximum growth opportunities in the emergency food market during the forecast period. According to our research, the region will contribute 31% of the global market growth. The US is a key country in the emergency food market in North America. The growth of this region is attributed to factors such as busy millennials opting for on-the-go eating options. Vendor Insights The emergency food market is fragmented, and the vendors are deploying organic and inorganic growth strategies to compete in the market. The report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on several market vendors, including: Story continues Augason Farms Conagra Brands Inc. Del Monte Food Inc. Emergency Essentials LLC General Mills Inc. Kellogg Co. Legacy Food Storage Mountain House Natures Juice Bar Nestle SA Probar LLC ReadyWise Shield Safety LLC SOS Food Lab LLC The Coca Cola Co. The Kraft Heinz Co. The Survival Tabs Thrive Life LLC Valley Food Storage LLC Wise Co. Emergency Food View our FREE PDF Sample Report to find additional highlights on the growth strategies adopted by vendors and their product offerings Key Market Drivers and Challenges The growth of the organized retail sector is challenging the emergency food market growth. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the two major offline distribution channels for ready-to-eat food products. Organized retailing enables consumers to choose from a wide range of ready-to-eat food products. Thus, a rise in the number of organized retailers is expected to drive the growth of the market during the forecast period. The need to adhere to stringent regulations and guidelines is challenging the emergency food market growth. Manufacturers need to comply with rules set by organizations such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). However, it is challenging for them to comply with these regulations, and any deviation can adversely affect their brand image. Such factors will challenge the growth of the market during the forecast period. Technavio has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help vendors improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. View our FREE PDF Sample Report Customize Your Report Don't miss out on the opportunity to speak to our analyst and know more insights about this market report. Technavio can also help you customize this report according to your needs. Our analysts and industry experts will work directly with you to understand your requirements and provide you with customized data in a short amount of time. Related Reports Frozen Food Market by Product and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The frozen food market share is expected to increase by USD 105.72 billion from 2021 to 2026. Frozen Vegetables Market by Distribution Channel and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026: The frozen vegetables market share is expected to increase by USD 11.38 billion from 2021 to 2026 Emergency Food Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 7.23% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 2.88 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 6.97 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 31% Key consumer countries US, China, India, UK, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Key companies profiled Augason Farms, Conagra Brands Inc., Del Monte Food Inc., Emergency Essentials LLC, General Mills Inc., Kellogg Co., Legacy Food Storage, Mountain House, Natures Juice Bar, Nestle SA, Probar LLC, ReadyWise, Shield Safety LLC, SOS Food Lab LLC, The Coca Cola Co., The Kraft Heinz Co., The Survival Tabs, Thrive Life LLC, Valley Food Storage LLC, and Wise Co. Emergency Food Market dynamics Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and 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 Consumer Staples Market Reports Table of Contents 1 Executive Summary 1.1 Market overview 2 Market Landscape 2.1 Market ecosystem 3 Market Sizing 3.1 Market definition 3.2 Market segment analysis 3.3 Market size 2021 3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026 4 Five Forces Analysis 4.1 Five forces summary 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers 4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers 4.4 Threat of new entrants 4.5 Threat of substitutes 4.6 Threat of rivalry 4.7 Market condition 5 Market Segmentation by Product Type 5.1 Market segments 5.2 Comparison by Product Type 5.3 Ready-to-eat meals - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.4 Non-perishable pasteurized milk - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.5 Infant food - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.6 Dried fruit - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.7 Others - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.8 Market opportunity by Product Type 6 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel 6.1 Market segments 6.2 Comparison by Distribution Channel 6.3 Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 6.4 Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 6.5 Market opportunity by Distribution Channel 7 Customer Landscape 7.1 Customer landscape overview 8 Geographic Landscape 8.1 Geographic segmentation 8.2 Geographic comparison 8.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.9 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.10 India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.11 UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.12 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 8.13 Market opportunity by geography 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 9.1 Market drivers 9.2 Market challenges 9.3 Impact of drivers and challenges 9.4 Market trends 10 Vendor Landscape 10.1 Overview 10.2 Vendor landscape 10.3 Landscape disruption 10.4 Industry risks 11 Vendor Analysis 11.1 Vendors covered 11.2 Market positioning of vendors 11.3 Conagra Brands Inc. 11.4 Del Monte Food Inc. 11.5 General Mills Inc. 11.6 Kellogg Co. 11.7 Nestle SA 11.8 ReadyWise 11.9 SOS Food Lab LLC 11.10 The Coca Cola Co. 11.11 The Kraft Heinz Co. 11.12 Wise Co. Emergency Food 12 Appendix 12.1 Scope of the report 12.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist 12.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ 12.4 Research methodology 12.5 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: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Global Emergency Food Market 2022-2026 Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/emergency-food-market-size-to-grow-by-usd-2-88-billion-ready-to-eat-meals-to-be-largest-revenue-generating-product-type-segment---technavio-301636654.html SOURCE Technavio Endeavour Mining PLC ENDEAVOURS OPERATIONS IN BURKINA FASO UNAFFECTED BY THE CURRENT POLITICAL SITUATION London, 3 October 2022 Endeavour Mining plc (LSE:EDV, TSX:EDV, OTCQX:EDVMF) (Endeavour or the Company) announces that its operations in Burkina Faso are not affected by the recent political events. The Company continues to monitor the situation and will provide further updates if appropriate. CONTACT INFORMATION Martino De Ciccio VP Strategy & Investor Relations +44 203 640 8665 mdeciccio@endeavourmining.com Brunswick Group LLP Carole Cable, Partner +44 7974 982 458 ccable@brunswickgroup.com ABOUT ENDEAVOUR MINING PLC Endeavour Mining is one of the worlds senior gold producers and the largest in West Africa, with operating assets across Senegal, Cote dIvoire and Burkina Faso and a strong portfolio of advanced development projects and exploration assets in the highly prospective Birimian Greenstone Belt across West Africa. A member of the World Gold Council, Endeavour is committed to the principles of responsible mining and delivering sustainable value to its employees, stakeholders and the communities where it operates. Endeavour is listed on the London and the Toronto Stock Exchanges, under the symbol EDV. For more information, please visit www.endeavourmining.com. Neither Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Attachment Marmomac, the world's leading natural stone exhibition, closed its doors at Veronafiere in Italy after four days of vibrant activity in which it played host to 47,000 professional operators from 132 countries, up 49% over 2021. International attendance accounted for 63% of this result, posting an increase of 97% in absolute terms compared to the previous edition, thus giving an enthusiastic restart for the natural stone value chain at Marmomac,. said the organisers. "This result all but returns the event to pre-pandemic figures in 2019, following the special online edition in 2020 and the restart show in 2021," said Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere. The natural stone sector returned to Marmomac with impressive impetus: 1,207 exhibiting companies set up their stands in the 10 show halls and the four outdoor areas (60.5% international from 47 countries). Inasmuch, Veronafiere has resumed its role as a driving force at full steam for the international development of this industrial supply chain, while also generating economic returns for its home city and the local area as a whole." According to Bricolo, more than 1,200 varieties of stone material were on show, embracing unhewn blocks, slabs and processed stone. Highly innovative technology for quarrying, cutting, processing and transport was also showcased thanks to 700 machines, systems and equipment - not to mention more than 800 other products including tools, abrasives and chemicals. A unique trade fair offering for buyers, importers, contractors, architects and designers, he added. "Marmomac this year have witnessed an impressive great quantitative and qualitative return of operators from target countries such as the United States, Brazil, India and Turkey," said Maurizio Danese, CEO of Veronafiere, "posting figures that virtually returned to the results for pre-Covid editions. The figure posted for international attendance is all the more impressive when bearing in mind the down-scaled presence of China, Russia and Ukraine in the wake of well-known health and geopolitical issues. Investments to promote incoming international delegations of top buyers, in collaboration with ICE Trade Agency, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Confindustria Marmomacchine, also contributed to the international calibre of this edition." The attention focused on product culture, experimentation, design and professional updating staged in "The Plus Theatre" once again ensured significant added value to the event. This venue hosted exhibitions, conferences and workshops informing visitors about the incredible functional and aesthetic potential of natural stone. Marmomac 2022 also launched a new green approach for the Italian natural stone production chain, with the presentation of the 10-point planning document in the Authentic Natural Stone, Sustainability Manifesto signed by companies belonging to the PNA Network, of which Veronafiere is also a member. This project seeks to create an environmental declaration for natural stone products, involving a commitment by companies in the sector to adopt a certified and circular production cycle to ensure increasingly lower environmental impact affecting air, water and overall CO2 emission levels. Travel Leaders Group initiative helps individuals struggling with financial hardship both inside and outside the travel industry NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Family Bonds Foundation, a charitable initiative of Travel Leaders Group, has raised nearly $165,000 for 2022, exceeding its annual goal by 50 percent. The money will assist individuals in need and nonprofit organizations both inside and outside the travel industry. Family Bonds Foundation logo (PRNewsfoto/Travel Leaders Group) Founded in 2015 by John Lovell, President of Travel Leaders Group, a division of Internova Travel Group, the Family Bonds Foundation supports families, their children and their communities who are experiencing difficult times or financial hardships. More than 200 grants have been distributed over the past seven years to travel advisors, supplier partners and others. In June, the foundation held an online fundraiser and conducted a raffle and silent auction at Travel Leaders Network's EDGE conference. A second raffle and silent auction took place at Nexion Travel Group's CoNexion conference, in September. The foundation received a record number of prize donations from supplier partners, including ocean and river cruises, land packages, hotel stays and premium airline tickets. "I am so grateful for the generosity of our travel advisors, employees and supplier partners who contributed to this unprecedented fundraising effort," said Jackie Friedman, Family Bonds Foundation President, who oversees the organization's Board of Directors. Friedman is also President of Nexion Travel Group. "At Internova Travel Group, one of our core values is human always. Thanks to you, the Family Bonds Foundation is putting that into action by making a difference in people's lives and in the work of groups that are vital to our communities." These supplier partners made donations for the 2022 fundraising drive: ALG Vacations, AmaWaterways, AMR Collection, Azamara, Carnival Cruise Line, Club Med, Delta Airlines, Enterprise Holdings, Globus family of brands, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, NCL, Oceania Cruises, Palace Resorts, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Silversea Cruises, United Airlines, Viking Cruises and Windstar Cruises. Story continues Helping people recover from natural disasters like Hurricane Ian is just one example of how the Family Bonds Foundation can provide assistance. Other examples include supporting families grappling with medical expenses, caregivers of elderly parents or children with special needs, and single parents trying to make ends meet. In April, the foundation raised $13,000 for the Global Empowerment Mission to support Ukraine relief efforts. "When I was nominated for the Family Bonds grant, I was elated and so humbled," said recipient Lori Atkinson, a vacation coordinator with Cruise Holidays, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate in Kansas City. "I couldn't believe that my travel community had come together like they did." Atkinson and her family faced financial strains when her husband suffered a heart attack and stroke, resulting in a lengthy hospital stay and rehabilitation period. "I was nominated by a coworker and it was just such a blessing to receive during this time where everything was so uncertain." The deadline for the next grant period is Oct. 15, and everyone in the travel industry is encouraged to help the foundation identify potential recipients. To nominate someone or make a donation, go to familybondsfoundation.com. About Travel Leaders Group Travel Leaders Group, a division of Internova Travel Group, encompasses the franchise and consortia operations, host agency business and brands predominantly focused on leisure, cruise and tour. This includes Travel Leaders Network, Nexion Travel Group, Barrhead Travel, Roadtrips, Travel Leaders Vacation Center, CruCon Cruise Outlet and Cruise Specialists. Travel Leaders Network is North America's largest travel network. About Internova Travel Group Internova Travel Group is one of the largest travel services companies in the world with a collection of leading brands delivering high-touch, personal travel expertise to leisure and corporate clients. The company manages leisure, business and franchise firms through a portfolio of distinctive divisions and represents more than 70,000 travel advisors in over 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations predominantly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries. CONTACT: Berit Griffin bgriffin@travelleaders.com 651-442-5173 Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/family-bonds-foundation-raises-record-165-000-for-charitable-grants-301639494.html SOURCE Family Bonds Foundation 85% of professionals at financial institutions agree: open finance is already making the financial services industry more collaborative and is having a positive impact LONDON, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Finastra today revealed a sneak peek at its annual State of the Nation Financial Services research. Results point to the significant progress the industry has made around open finance and collaboration, despite the challenging market conditions of the last few years. Finastra Logo The research takes in views from 758 professionals at financial institutions and banks across France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UAE, the UK and the US, and finds: 85% of professionals agree that open finance is already making the industry more collaborative and is having a positive impact 8 in 10 consider the sector open to collaboration, with 87% recognizing this as an improvement compared to five years ago "These compelling figures speak to a marked industry shift towards 'open' and reflect our journey, creating ways to innovate at scale and pace, and accelerate innovation through collaboration," said Simon Paris, CEO at Finastra. "In 2018 we declared that the future of finance is open. And we weren't just talking about Open Banking, but true open finance disrupting and reshaping the foundation of financial services. That future is now, and we can simply say: finance is open." In the last few years, the industry has seen the unbundling of banking, with institutions offering products procured outside of their organization, a move to contextual and conscious banking services which meet the customer at the point of need, and a greater desire from many companies to do well by doing good. All of these form part of the shift to open. The encouraging research findings coincide with the launch of season two on Finastra Universe TV a new series of on-demand digital thought leadership videos exploring this world of open finance. Tune in to the free-to-access content, designed to help financial institutions better compete, with insights from Finastra experts, industry analysts and customers that are shaping the world of finance. Explore the latest trends in lending, payments, universal banking (digital, retail and commercial banking), treasury and capital markets, and Finastra's broader commitments, including: Story continues Open technology: Collaborating to innovate An open platform and open and collaborative ecosystem are enablers for fairer and more accessible banking services: Finastra's Banking as a Service (BaaS) strategy is focused on orchestrating a financial ecosystem that creates economic growth via greater accessibility to affordable financial services. This is underpinned by FusionFabric.cloud an open platform for innovation and collaboration. The platform is the key orchestrator in driving innovation to Finastra customers, whether they are banks, financial institutions or other fintechs. Since its launch, FusionFabric.cloud has opened up over 300 APIs and datasets, enabling the launch of over 200 fintech applications, now consumed by over 700 customers. Open communities: Creating more equitable access to banking Sustainable environmental and social value creation in financial services has never been more important. Technology allows for greater access, transparency and equality at scale an opportunity to contribute to a better world: Providing critical capital to the SME sector with ICC TradeComm a trade funding marketplace matching supply and demand, ultimately aiming to decrease the global trade finance gap. Delivering affordable access to formal financial services to 100 million 'unbanked' members of credit unions and Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) by 2030 through collaboration with our customers in the developing world. Finastra has also invested in supporting financial literacy programs for schoolchildren, students and business owners as far afield as the southern US and east Africa. Open culture: Building a path for success through diversity, equity and inclusion Breaking through barriers, building skills and creating a workplace where people feel they belong contributes to Finastra's 'open by default' DE&I mantra: 2030 is the year Finastra expects to achieve 50:50 gender equality across its operations. Finastra has reached its ambition at the executive leadership level and is continuing the journey to embrace the full spectrum of diversity while creating an open culture where everyone can thrive. Access Finastra Universe TV here. Finastra's 2022 ESG report is available here. Notes to editors: 758 professionals (at managerial level) at financial institutions and banks across France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UAE, the UK and the US, are included in the upcoming 2022 research report. These financial institutions represent a gross total of just over USD$28 billion in turnover over the last 12 months, employ approximately 1.9m staff and have approximately 147 million client/customer/member relationships. Research was conducted by Savanta via an online panel (September 2022). For further information please contact: Caroline Duff PR Director T +44 (0)7917 613586 E caroline.duff@finastra.com About Finastra Finastra is a global provider of financial software applications and marketplaces, and launched the leading open platform for innovation, FusionFabric.cloud, in 2017. It serves institutions of all sizes, providing award-winning solutions and services across Lending, Payments, Treasury & Capital Markets and Universal Banking (digital, retail and commercial banking) for banks to support direct banking relationships and grow through indirect channels, such as embedded finance and Banking as a Service. Its pioneering approach and commitment to open finance and collaboration is why it is trusted by ~8,600 institutions, including 90 of the world's top 100 banks. For more information, visit finastra.com. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/967510/Finastra_Logo.jpg Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/finastra-research-points-to-open-finance-progress-301639110.html SOURCE Finastra ReportLinker The broad range of credit choices offered to consumers and business owners in addition to typical bank loans is referred to as alternative lending. In other terms, it refers to the procedure of accepting loans from financial entities that are not banks or other non-banking organizations. New York, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Alternative Lending Platform Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Component, By Deployment, By End-use, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2022 - 2028" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321810/?utm_source=GNW Since traditional banks have refused to finance blue-collar workers, freelancers, or gig workers due to their insufficient credit histories, alternative lending has grown significantly over the past few years. In poor countries, a large segment of the population still uses antiquated procedures to get loans. Pawn shops, where consumers deposit valuables, are regularly used to acquire loans. In a variety of circumstances, people borrow money from friends and family members. Small and medium-sized enterprises were severely hit worldwide by the pandemic, which gave alternative finance, often known as alt lending, a boost. The shutdown forced numerous businesses to shut down. Many smaller businesses filed for bankruptcy, and many business owners lacked the funding to reopen their operations after the lockdown was removed. These small business owners usually lacked the credit history needed to be approved for a loan, and those with a history of insolvency would find it difficult to get any money from a traditional bank. By offering services to the unbanked subprime customer group, non-banking firms are stepping in to close the gap. Alternative lenders employ technology to enter markets that traditional banks had not yet looked at. They are also making more money since they are making many smaller loans. To mine the applicants data, alternative lenders employ a combination of machine learning, computer algorithms, and artificial intelligence. These details frequently involve money matters, spending patterns, purchasing histories, and other things. COVID-19 Impact Analysis Despite having fewer consumers overall, alternative lending sites have seen a considerable rise in users. This is because many SMEs require prompt loan approvals to maintain their operations during trying times. The commercial launch of the Alternative Lending Platform Market industry may also be significantly delayed as a result of the economic crisis that followed the pandemic. The backbone of technology providers, small and medium-sized businesses, has seen a decline in revenue since the pandemics debut in 2020. As a result of the supply chain disruptions, market players faced several difficulties. However, as more supplies come online in the second half of 2022, things will get better. Market Growth Factors Internet Of Things Lending Platforms Are Becoming More Popular The Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain-based technologies are being adopted and implemented by alternative financial organizations more frequently. These innovations support the development of the alternative lending platform market by introducing cutting-edge features like simple accessibility and transparency to alternative funding platforms. For instance, a blockchain-based digital solution created by digital products and solutions provider Tavant Technologies fully utilizes data-driven processes to produce alternative funding lifecycles. Market Risk And Operating Cost Reduction Alternative loan services, in contrast to conventional banking methods, are simple to use. A web-based business called Alternative Funding uses social impact bonds and bitcoin to raise money. Consumers can therefore trust alternative financial data, which fuels the expansion of alternative financial products. Alternative finance also lowers the cost of infrastructure, staffing Bray membership, and upkeep of financial services, which all contribute to lower operational costs. Market Restraining Factors Smaller Amounts And Shorter Terms Of Alternative Lending Alternative business financing typically, but not always, has higher rates as well as shorter durations and smaller loan amounts. Although it depends on the type of loan are eligible for, many alternative lenders work with business owners who wouldnt have been approved for a bank loan. This implies that the financing they are eligible for is typically smaller and has a shorter repayment term. Consequently, business owners have less time and less money to spend that additional cash. Component Outlook Based on the Component, the Alternative Lending Platform Market is divided into Solution and services. The solution segment procured the largest revenue share in the alternative lending platform market in 2021. It is because small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are resorting to alternative lending alternatives to resolve their cash emergencies given the challenges associated with obtaining a bank loan for SMBs. Deployment Outlook By Deployment, the Alternative Lending Platform Market is bifurcated into On-Premise and Cloud. The cloud segment recorded a significant revenue share in the alternative lending platform market in 2021. Cloud technology not only offers a thorough perspective of client interactions to improve customer service but also lowers overall expenses and boosts operational effectiveness. Additionally, embracing cloud-based deployment allows for remote access, which boosts organizational flexibility. End-Use Outlook On the basis of End-use, the Alternative Lending Platform Market is classified into Crowdfunding and Peer-to-Peer Lending. The crowdfunding segment acquired the largest revenue share in the alternative lending platform market in 2021. It is due to the increasing use of social media platforms, which serve as inexpensive promotional tools for crowdfunding sites. Social medias audience gives crowdfunding projects the boost they need to attract a pool of investors from all around the world. Regional Outlook Region-wise, the Alternative Lending Platform Market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The North America region garnered the largest revenue share in the alternative lending platform market in 2021. It is because numerous important players are present in the area, which contributes to the supremacy. Additionally, technology developments and uptake are fostering regional market expansion. The major strategies followed by the market participants are Partnerships. Based on the Analysis presented in the Cardinal matrix; American Express Kabbage Inc. is the forerunner in the Alternative Lending Platform Market. Companies such as Funding Circle Limited, Upstart Network, Inc. and On Deck Capital, Inc. are some of the key innovators in Alternative Lending Platform Market. The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Funding Circle Limited, On Deck Capital, Inc., Upstart Network, Inc., American Express Kabbage Inc. (American Express Company), LendingClub Bank (LendingClub Corporation), Zopa Bank Limited, CommonBond, Inc., Prosper Funding LLC, Avant, LLC, and Social Finance. Recent Strategies deployed in Alternative Lending Platform Market Partnerships, Collaborations and Agreements: Jun-2022: Funding Circle came into a partnership with Magnetar Capital UK, a hedge fund. Through this partnership, Magnetar UK would support thousands of SMEs utilizing Funding Circles distribution and technology medium, which the companies express would deliver Magnetar an efficient and cost-effective mechanism to allocate Capital to the entire economy. May-2022: Funding Circle formed a partnership with Waterfall Asset Management, an SEC-registered specialist credit adviser. Under this partnership, Waterfall would loan through the Funding Circle platform over two years along with a broad scope of investors, such as individuals, banks, asset management firms, government-backed entities, insurance enterprises, and funds. Additionally, Waterfall would deliver a broad range of investors utilizing Funding Circles machine learning and technology abilities to loan to SMEs at both scale and speed. May-2022: OnDeck formed a partnership with SoFi Technologies along with LendingTree. Together, the companies aimed to deliver best-in-class digital lending outcomes and FinTech portfolio with OnDecks Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence expertise, providing small companies more opportunities for receiving an effortless pass to working funds that sustain their growth. Mar-2022: Upstart came into a partnership with Sandbox Banking, a BaaS infrastructure company. This partnership would allow Upstart to support its bank and credit union members to more effectively combine Upstart loan and borrower data into their center CRM systems. Additionally, The integration of Upstarts AI-powered lending platform within Sandbox Bankings capacity to simplify the procedure for banks to fulfill their customer lending requirements allows Upstart lending associates to incorporate loan and consumer data seamlessly into main banking systems. Mar-2022: Funding Circle partnered with Pitney Bowes, an American technology corporation. With this partnership, the companies would offer consumers of the global mailing and shipping firm permit to financing arranged via the Funding Circle platform. Additionally, Pitney Bowes would provide small firm term loans to its consumers via the Funding Circle platform. Aug-2020: Funding Circle & Santander came into a partnership with Santander, a banking services company. Through this partnership, the companies aimed to support thousands of UK companies. Additionally, The referral arrangement would witness Santander proactively guide small business clients looking for a loan to Funding Circle. Aug-2020: Funding Circle formed a partnership with Sage, one of the worlds foremost providers of software solutions for small companies. This partnership implicates Sage in guiding their small business consumers to Funding Circle in cases where their consumers require enterprise finance. Additionally, Sage delivers a range of invaluable industry devices such as software for accounts, HR, payroll, and payments, and has over 6 million consumers across the world. Product Launches and Product Expansions: May-2022: LendingClub introduced a new enhancement to its automated loan auction platform, LCX. With this expansion, Institutional investors can now trade LendingClub loans instantly to each other on the platform, improving access to this market-leading support through an effective digital marketplace. May-2022: Upstart expanded its technology to more car dealerships. This expansion focused on benefiting drivers with appropriate and inadequate credit by completing a more equal playing domain for loan clearance at the dealership level. Jan-2022: Prosper Marketplace unveiled Prosper Card to support people get a grip on their finances no matter where they fall on the credit ranking. The prosper card provides reasonable rates, no annual charges for the first year with autopay, no-fee ATM cash advancements, no security assurance, and other bonuses. Dec-2021: Funding Circle launched Application Programming Interface. The new platform would allow partners to natively implant Funding Circle into their website, delivering consumers with quick and seamless access to business loans. Additionally, utilizing Funding Circles decade of investment in its machine learning and Instant Decision technology, associates can now deliver consumers a frictionless method to apply for a loan of up to 500,000 in minutes, obtain a judgment in seconds, and have money in their account within 24 hours. Dec-2021: Kabbage introduced Kabbage Funding, a small enterprise line of credit to support fund small companies. The new portfolio develops Kabbages digital cash flow platform for small enterprises. Moreover, qualified applicants can obtain funding of around $1,000 and $150,000. Jun-2020: Upstart introduced its support for auto loans as part of its consumer lending platform. The new service allows banks to deliver refinance and purchase finance loans with streamlined higher clearance, digital experience, and potentially lower failure rates, all facilitated by AI. Acquisitions and Mergers: May-2022: Avant completed the acquisition of PlanetOne, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based supplier of tech sourcing solutions. With this acquisition, PlanetOne is an immediate multiplier for the individuals, partners, and vendors working with and for PlanetOne and AVANT. Apr-2021: Avant took over Zero Financial, a financial technology business. This acquisition is a crucial element of Avants strategy to deliver unserved and underbanked customers with a complete ecosystem of transparent financial services and products with prominent features and rewards, in one mobile app. Business Expansions: Feb-2022: CommonBond expanded its business by establishing new Solar financing. The new business offers to deliver reasonable financing possibilities for the building of solar panels, the organization is promoting more homeowners to save funds on their monthly electricity bill and decrease carbon impression. Scope of the Study Market Segments covered in the Report: By Component Solution o Loan Origination o Loan Servicing o Lending Analytics o Others Services o Integration & Deployment o Support & Maintenance o Training & Consulting o Managed Services By Deployment On-Premise Cloud By End-use Crowdfunding Peer-to-Peer Lending By Geography North America o US o Canada o Mexico o Rest of North America Europe o Germany o UK o France o Russia o Spain o Italy o Rest of Europe Asia Pacific o China o Japan o India o South Korea o Singapore o Malaysia o Rest of Asia Pacific LAMEA o Brazil o Argentina o UAE o Saudi Arabia o South Africa o Nigeria o Rest of LAMEA Companies Profiled Funding Circle Limited On Deck Capital, Inc. Upstart Network, Inc. American Express Kabbage Inc. (American Express Company) LendingClub Bank (LendingClub Corporation) Zopa Bank Limited CommonBond, Inc. Prosper Funding LLC Avant, LLC Social Finance Unique Offerings Exhaustive coverage Highest number of market tables and figures Subscription based model available Guaranteed best price Assured post sales research support with 10% customization free Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321810/?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 Automation in combined heat and power systems benefits industries in several ways, including district heating network optimization, steam network optimization, and safety system optimization. New York, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Automation in Combined Heat and Power Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Component, By Control & Safety System, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2022 - 2028" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321835/?utm_source=GNW Additionally, it is utilized to boost plant productivity and requires less labor than the conventional one. Power plants can estimate flue gas emissions due to automation, which also helps them react pro-actively and quickly to possible issues. The emphasis on industrial automation and resource efficiency, as well as the use of cutting-edge technologies like IoT and AI in industrial settings, are predicted to be the main drivers of growth in the market for combined heat and power automation. Additionally, the concept of connected enterprises is emerging, which accelerates market growth overall. Production efficiency, actual costs, lifetime costs, emissions, and all of their interdependencies can be measured, calculated, estimated, and monitored due to automation. It helps the factory control and optimizes its processes appropriately. The owners and builders of brand-new, sizable combined heat and power (CHP) power plants are fully aware of the advantages of automation. However, in smaller units, not all users are currently aware of the major advantages that modern automation offers over a more straightforward PLC system, both in terms of benefits and cost. COVID-19 Impact Analysis The COVID-19 disease pandemic has had a significant impact on production and industrial operations, which has also hindered market growth for automation in combined heat and power generation. The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected the electronics industry since production facilities have slowed down, which has increased demand for electronics and semiconductor products in these sectors. Its main effects include a substantial manufacturing disruption throughout Europe and a halt in Chinese part shipments, which limit the market opportunity for automation in combined heat and power systems. Market Growth Factor The distribution of power production is increasing Power creation at or near the point of usage is known as distributed generation. Previously, electricity was distributed using low-voltage DC systems at tiny power plants. Electric supply and mechanical tasks can both be accomplished via distributed generating providing torque to move objects. Systems having a capacity of less than 100 MW, whether permanent or mobile, are referred to as distributed generation systems. Distributed generation can enable the delivery of clean, dependable power to more consumers and minimize electricity losses across transmission and distribution lines when linked to the electric utilitys lower voltage distribution lines. Combined heat and power can benefit from automation One more advantage of automation is that it enables quick responses when they are most needed. Software for automating business processes can parse incoming data from emails, web forms, social networks, system data, etc. After then, it can notify of events like complaints or service interruptions. Incoming message replies can also be handled via automation. As a result, when something goes wrong, resolutions happen more quickly. The advantages of automation are all excellent on their own. Market Restraining Factor Automation in combined heat and power system installation and upkeep expenses are rising The large initial capital expense needed for installation is one of the greatest disadvantages of establishing a CHP plant. CHP facilities need additional equipment such as heat exchangers, boilers, absorption chillers, and other equipment in addition to the power generation equipment like prime mover, generator systems, and others. A key barrier to the growth of the CHP business is the cost of a typical CHP plant, which can be about 240% higher than the cost of a power production plant with equivalent capacity and prime mover. The great efficiency of the CHP requires routine maintenance of every component, which drives up overall maintenance expenses and hampers the growth of the automation in combined heat and power market. Component Outlook Based on the Component, the Automation in Combined Heat and Power Market is divided into Sensors, Controllers, Switches & Relays, Drives, and Others. The sensors segment witnessed a significant revenue share in automation in the combined heat and power market in 2021. This is frequently referred to as a "dump radiator," and it is typically managed by a valve coupled to a temperature sensor on the CHP packages return water input. The valve opens if the water temperature rises beyond a certain threshold, allowing water to flow into the dump radiators and then back into the return piping system. Control & Safety System Outlook On the basis of Control and Safety System, the Automation in Combined Heat and Power Market is segmented into Distributed Control System (DCS), Supervisory control & data acquisition system (SCADA), Systems instrumented systems (SIS), Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), and Human machine interface (HMI). The Supervisory control & data acquisition system (SCADA) segment procured the largest revenue share in the automation in the combined heat and power market in 2021. It is because it manages the operator interfaces that allow monitoring and the issuance of process directives, such as changing the controller set point. The SCADA concept was created to be a common method of remote access to various local control modules from various manufacturers while providing access through standard automation protocols. Regional Outlook Region-wise, the Automation in Combined Heat and Power Market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The Asia Pacific region garnered a promising revenue share in the automation in the combined heat and power market in 2021. It is because of technology advancements, ongoing power generation projects, and infrastructure upgrades. China and India are driving the growth in power output and consumption in the area, which is the worlds largest user of energy. Asia Pacific offers enormous potential for combined heat and power, largely because of Chinas rapid economic development and the switch from coal-based to gas-fired power generation. The major strategies followed by the market participants are Partnership. Based on the Analysis presented in the Cardinal matrix; Siemens AG, Honeywell International, Inc. and ABB Group are the forerunners in the Automation in Combined Heat and Power. Companies such as Schneider Electric SE, Emerson Electric Co. and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation are some of the key innovators in Automation in Combined Heat and Power. The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Omron Corporation, ABB Group, Honeywell International, Inc., Schneider Electric SE, Siemens AG, Emerson Electric Co., Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Valmet Oyj, Yokogawa Electric Corporation and Rockwell Automation, Inc. Recent strategies deployed in Automation in Combined Heat and Power Market Partnership, Collaboration and Agreement Jun-2022: Emerson signed an agreement with Jotun, a Norwegian multinational chemicals business. This agreement would allow Jotun to execute Emersons digital technologies to improve all elements of manufacturing automation in new plants. Mar-2022: Omron Automation partnered with RAMP, a technology development corporation. Under this partnership, RAMPs product and process knowledge of automation and tooling, integrated with vast experience in machinery and systems strategy, delivers a complete turn-key solution that fulfills consumers performance and quality needs. Jan-2022: Mitsubishi Power came into a partnership with Stockholm Exergi, a Swedish energy corporation. Through this partnership, the companies aimed to modernize the combined heat and power (CHP) manufacturer, Kraftvarmeverk 1 (KVV1) at Vartaverket, Stockholm. Additionally, the upgrade also concerns automating the factorys control system to an advanced distributed control system and establishing new low NOx burners to lower nitrogen dioxide emissions Feb-2021: Siemens signed an agreement with Guangdong Energy Group, a company with centennial historical inheritance. This agreement aimed to deliver F-class gas turbine island tools for the Zhaoqing Dinghu Combined Heat and Power (CHP) generation project in Dinghu District, Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province. Additionally, the CHP plant is positioned at 2460MW and contains two SGT5-4000F four generators, gas turbines, two steam turbines, two SPPA-T3000 control systems, and related extra tools. Sep-2020: Schneider Electric joined hands with Walmart, an American multinational retail business. With this collaboration, the companies aimed to deliver the improved permit for renewable energy for Walmarts US-based suppliers. Additionally, the collaboration aims to add renewable generation ability to the US grid by making greater key to large-scale, renewable energy. Aug-2020: Emerson joined hands with Mitsubishi Power, an energy solutions business. Through this partnership, the companies aimed to improve the execution and dependability of power plants operating, AI-driven supervision systems, and automated functional decision-making. Acquisitions & Mergers Apr-2022: Valmet Oyj formed a merger with Neles, structures and manufactures industrial valves and valve automation solutions. With this merger, Valmet now has a special, even stronger portfolio for global process enterprises and a solid medium for further company growth, particularly in automation systems and flow control solutions. Dec-2021: Yokogawa completed the acquisition of the PXiSE, a Developer of High-speed Control Software for Grids and Renewable Energy Assets. Through this acquisition, Yokogawa would develop its abilities in the monitoring and managing of power generation establishments and assist consumers in the power transmission and distribution sectors to fulfill their clean energy objectives. Jul-2021: Valmet took over EWK Umwelttechnik, a German company supplying and manufacturing air emission control systems. Through this acquisition, the company aimed to reinforce its environmental systems industry, concentrating on power plants and the pulp and paper business, in Finland. Oct-2020: Emerson took over Progea Group, an industry-leading supplier of industrial internet of things. With this acquisition, Progeas abilities in industrial visualization, analytics, and IIoT would create upon Emersons embedded software and control offering for manufacturing, infrastructure, and creating automation applications and allow consumers to simplify complete machine and plant control systems to a single partner. Product Expansion & Product Launch Jul-2021: OMRON Corporation unveiled G9KA High Power PCB Relay. The new product enhances the power generation efficiency of PV generation systems by reducing energy loss induced by the heat generated by power supply equipment, power conditioners, and connected tools used in solar power generation systems. Geographic Expansion Jan-2021: Emersons expanded its geographical expansion by establishing the 980-megawatt Magnolia Combined Cycle Power Plant in Mississippi. With this expansion, the company aimed to substitute existing systems with Emersons Ovation Automation software that provides simulation technology, control system, and cybersecurity protection. Additionally, digital twin simulations would be utilized to deliver advanced training to operators. Scope of the Study Market Segments covered in the Report: By Component Controllers Sensors Switches & Relays Drives Others By Control & Safety System Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition System (SCADA) Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Human Machine Interface (HMI) Distributed Control System (DCS) Systems Instrumented Systems (SIS) By Geography North America o US o Canada o Mexico o Rest of North America Europe o Germany o UK o France o Russia o Spain o Italy o Rest of Europe Asia Pacific o China o Japan o India o South Korea o Singapore o Malaysia o Rest of Asia Pacific LAMEA o Brazil o Argentina o UAE o Saudi Arabia o South Africa o Nigeria o Rest of LAMEA Companies Profiled Omron Corporation ABB Group Honeywell International, Inc. Schneider Electric SE Siemens AG Emerson Electric Co. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Valmet Oyj Yokogawa Electric Corporation Rockwell Automation, Inc. Unique Offerings Exhaustive coverage Highest number of market tables and figures Subscription based model available Guaranteed best price Assured post sales research support with 10% customization free Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321835/?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 A blockchain refers to a shared distributed database or ledger between computer network nodes. Also, a blockchain functions as a digital database for the storage of data. The blockchain is made up of blocks with particular storage capacities that, once filled, are closed and linked to the block which passed before them to form a data chain. New York, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Blockchain Technology in Healthcare Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By End User, By Type, By Application, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2022 - 2028" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321875/?utm_source=GNW When the chain is complete, a new block is created from each bit of information that follows the just block and added to the chain. A blockchain network is utilized in the healthcare industry to collect and access patient data across hospitals, diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical companies, and physicians. It can improve the effectiveness, security, and transparency of medical data interchange throughout the healthcare system. Using this technology, medical institutions could gain knowledge and enhance the evaluation of patient data. One of the key factors influencing the deployment of blockchain technology in the healthcare sector is the surge in data breaches. The adoption of blockchain technology inside the healthcare system has increased the demand for blockchain technology in the sector. It may result in significant annual cost savings in areas such as IT, personnel, operations, and support function expenditures as well as reductions in fraud and the sale of fake goods. Complete protection from fraudulent pharmaceuticals may be offered by incorporating blockchain with supply chain management, making it the most popular blockchain technology in the healthcare industry. The healthcare sector is dealing with a very serious issue: pharmaceutical counterfeiting. The lack of transparency in pharmaceutical supply chains makes it easy for fraud and manipulation to occur. Since blockchain technology enables system clarity and data integrity, it gives ideal solutions to combat pharmaceutical counterfeiting. It provides total, end-to-end supply chain transparency. COVID-19 Impact Analysis The lockout caused delays in the production and delivery of critical medical supplies. Limited access to medical treatment, a staffing deficit in the healthcare industry, and an increase in COVID-19-related hospitalization are a few more variables that have an impact on the market. The coronavirus outbreak hastened the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in the healthcare sector, like blockchain. Blockchain technology has been utilized by healthcare facilities across a number of countries, which has improved effective resource & operation planning. Several market participants are creating a tracking system based on blockchain to halt the spread of incorrect information. Market Growth Factors Increasing Need For The Improved Communication Between Healthcare Provider And Patients Regardless of what an industry stands for, miscommunication is a flaw that has a detrimental effect on it. Since peoples lives are on the line, it is especially important to guarantee smooth and effective communication in the sensitive healthcare industry. Communication breakdown among healthcare professionals or between patients & providers could be very expensive and even dangerous to the health of the patient. The majority of miscommunications are caused by incomplete or inaccurate medical data, as updating them takes a long time. Blockchain technology might be a useful remedy for this issue. Decentralized blockchain solutions exist. As a result, the information is kept on various network nodes rather than just one database. Rising Requirement To Store And Safeguard Medical Data Medical data storage and security requirements have increased, which can be beneficial for medical staff, patients, and healthcare facilities. Medical data may be kept secure thanks to blockchain technologys cross-checking, encryption, and decentralization, which stimulates the markets growth. The digitization of the healthcare system and related business sectors is being prioritized by the governments of various nations because it has the potential to boost patient participation, improve health outcomes, and make better forecasts, among other things. Market Restraining Factors Complexities Faced By The Healthcare Companies During The Implementation Regarding how various institutions manage records, healthcare physician providers & insurance payers vary widely. It would be very challenging to get all of these organizations to utilize blockchain technology without a streamlined method, like single payer. However, the effectiveness of the entire system is diminished if any are unwilling to adopt it. Therefore, it is a tough ask to convince them to switch from paper records to electronic healthcare records (EHR) using blockchain. For instance, doctors frequently leave questions blank since doing so is mandated by technology. Type Outlook Based on type, the blockchain technology in healthcare market is segmented into Public and Private. The private segment procured a significant revenue share in the blockchain technology in healthcare market in 2021. It is due to the rising safety of data and effectiveness. One example of the private network is Hyperledger Fabric from the Linux foundation. They provide great security, quick transactions, and privacy. They are thus created and utilized for specific corporate requirements. Application Outlook On the basis of application, the blockchain technology in healthcare market is divided into Supply Chain Management, Data Exchange & Interoperability, Claims Adjudication & Billing, and Others. The supply chain management segment recorded the maximum revenue share in the blockchain technology in healthcare market in 2021. Applications for blockchain assist maintain data integrity. Pharmaceutical firms can improve interoperability with Internet of Things (IoT) devices due to the technology. End-User Outlook By end-user, the blockchain technology in healthcare market is fragmented into Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Companies, Healthcare Payers and Healthcare Providers. The pharmaceutical and medical device companies segment registered the highest revenue share in the blockchain technology in healthcare market in 2021. The growing use of technology for critical tasks like ensuring the legitimacy of a drug being returned, preventing counterfeiting, adhering to the pharmaceutical supply chain, ensuring transparency and traceability in clinical trials, and enhancing the accuracy and dependability of clinical trial data is also predicted to contribute to segment growth. Regional Outlook Region-wise, the blockchain technology in healthcare market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. North America emerged as the leading region in the blockchain technology in healthcare market with the largest revenue share in 2021. This is due to developments in blockchain technology, the combination of cutting-edge hardware and software, the existence of important actors, and the regions strong infrastructure. The major strategies followed by the market participants are Product Launches. Based on the Analysis presented in the Cardinal matrix; IBM Corporation and Oracle Corporation are the forerunners in the Blockchain Technology in Healthcare Market. Companies such as Hashed Health, Embleema, are some of the key innovators in Blockchain Technology in Healthcare Market. The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include IBM Corporation, Oracle Corporation, Avaneer Health, Inc., BurstIQ, LLC, Chronicled, Embleema, Equideum Health (ConsenSys Mesh), Farmatrust, GuardTime, and Hashed Health. Recent Strategies Deployed in Blockchain Technology in Healthcare Market Partnerships, Collaborations and Agreements: Aug-2022: Oracle teamed up with InfStones, the worlds leading blockchain infrastructure provider. This collaboration aimed at combining InfStones top blockchain development platform with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) to boost Web3 development. This collaboration would assist in delivering major insights that drive the development, evolution, and adoption of Web3 applications across the globe. Jul-2022: Equideum Health entered into a partnership with SIMBA Chain, a cloud-based, blockchain-as-a-service (BaaS) platform. This partnership aimed to enhance global healthcare by developing a decentralized marketplace called the Equideum Exchange to empower individuals to monetize health as well as health-associated data about them. May-2022: Equideum Health teamed up with Nokia Bell Labs, an American industrial research and scientific development company. This collaboration aimed to use data generated from video feeds, wearables, smartphones, and home health devices. Apr-2022: Chronicled partnered with AmerisourceBergen, an American drug wholesale company. This partnership aimed to use a new blockchain-powered solution developed to improve pharmaceutical chargeback accuracy and substantially decrease chargeback rejections. Aug-2021: Chronicled came into a partnership with MediLedger, an industry-owned permissioned blockchain network. This partnership aimed to use the latest blockchain-powered solution on the MediLedger Network to simplify operations over the pharmaceutical supply chain and allow a reliable, frictionless experience for pharmacies over the country. May-2021: BurstIQ entered into collaboration with The National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This collaboration aimed to acknowledge the protection of intellectual property related to NCATS work on translational science. Jun-2020: Oracle came into a collaboration with HACERA, a US-based technology company. This collaboration aimed to provide reliable information through MiPasa platform. Product Launches and Product Expansions: Dec-2020: IBM Watson Health released an IBM Digital Health Pass. This pass would assist organizations to allow individuals to return to work or school. The tool is developed on IBM blockchain technology focused on enabling customers to transfer their verified health pass established on criteria like COVID-19 test outcomes without exposing the data utilized to generate it. May-2020: IBM unveiled Rapid Supplier Connect, a blockchain-based network. This product would assist healthcare companies whether hospitals or government agencies tackle equipment shortages at the time of the pandemic by assisting them to find alternative suppliers. In addition, Rapid Supplier Connect is developed to assist health systems and government agencies detect and onboarding alternative vendors when some supplies and PPE are in shortage. Scope of the Study Market Segments covered in the Report: By End User Pharmaceutical & Medical Device Companies Healthcare Payers Healthcare Providers By Type Public Private By Application Supply Chain Management Data Exchange & Interoperability Claims Adjudication & Billing Others By Geography North America o US o Canada o Mexico o Rest of North America Europe o Germany o UK o France o Russia o Spain o Italy o Rest of Europe Asia Pacific o China o Japan o India o South Korea o Singapore o Malaysia o Rest of Asia Pacific LAMEA o Brazil o Argentina o UAE o Saudi Arabia o South Africa o Nigeria o Rest of LAMEA Companies Profiled IBM Corporation Oracle Corporation Avaneer Health, Inc. BurstIQ, LLC Chronicled Embleema Equideum Health (ConsenSys Mesh) Farmatrust GuardTime Hashed Health Unique Offerings Exhaustive coverage Highest number of market tables and figures Subscription based model available Guaranteed best price Assured post sales research support with 10% customization free Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321875/?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 A sort of scam known as business email compromise (BEC) targets businesses that use wire transfers and have foreign suppliers. Keyloggers or phishing attacks are used to impersonate or hack corporate or publicly accessible email accounts of executives or high-level workers engaged in finance or wire transfer payments in order to conduct fraudulent transfers, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages. New York, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Business Email Compromise Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Offering, By Deployment Mode, By Organization Size, By Vertical, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2022 - 2028" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321890/?utm_source=GNW BEC scams frequently start with an attacker taking control of a business executives email account or any other email that is publicly accessible. This is typically accomplished through the use of keylogger software, phishing techniques, or forged emails that deceive the victim into divulging account information. Phishing attacks use a domain that closely resembles the firm being targeted. The fraudster would attempt to ascertain who requests wire transfers and who conducts them after observing the hacked email account. The offenders frequently do a good lot of investigation, seeking for a company where the C-suite of the finance section has changed, businesses where executives are on business trips, or by hosting an investor conference call. They take advantage of these as chances to carry out their plan. Following the epidemic, there has been an increase in BEC and spear-phishing attacks. It is anticipated that rising internet usage, mobile device adoption, and cloud deployment patterns would enhance email platform usage and help expand the adoption of BEC solutions & services. The expansion in the utilization of BEC solutions is also being fueled by the growing regulatory compliances regarding the use of emails. Holistic email protection solutions are in high demand across industries like BFSI, healthcare, IT and ITeS, government, and retail and eCommerce. COVID-19 Impact Analysis The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted various aspects of the business domain. Due to the boosted adoption of the BYOD as well as WFH trends brought on by COVID-19, there have been more spear phishing & BEC attacks on the BFSI infrastructure. Owing to the sensitive & private information they handle, BFSI organizations are subject to strict data security regulations. As a result, there is a growing need for BEC solutions in the BFSI sector. Market Growth Factor Massive Financial Losses Owing to the Bec Crimes Phishing attacks, spam emails, virus attacks, identity thefts, APTs, zero-day attacks, and many more sophisticated attacks are increasingly targeting emails. It is extremely vulnerable to target data breaches since every day, more than billions of emails are sent and received. Organizations are being urged by these financial repercussions to implement email encryption solutions in order to effectively secure their email infrastructures. Each company needs to have a strong security posture that guards against ransomware. Effective access management, data encryption, heightened security, anomaly detection, and comprehensive user access controls are necessary for an effective defence against cybercriminals. As a result, it is estimated that throughout the forecast period, increasing phishing assaults will drive the market. Rise in the Usage of Ml/Ai-Powered Bec Solutions In a BEC scam, attackers assume the identity of a reliable source to coerce their victims into sending false payment information. Gift card theft, payment redirection, and fraudulent supplier invoices are all examples of BEC scams. In order to stop BEC frauds, vendors in the industry use AI/ML capabilities to examine every email message. To prevent any significant financial losses, ML/AI-powered BEC detection tools assist in more efficiently identifying and halting email fraud attacks. Many companies are developing advanced solutions integrated with ML/ AI powered BEC solutions, which would escalate the growth of the market during the forecast period. Market Restraining Factor Usage of Open Source, Free and Pirated Email Security Software BEC solutions assist individuals and businesses in lowering the risk of data loss. There are many different types of open-source email security programmes on the market. Email encryption programmes like VeraCrypt, DiskCryptor, FileVault, and AxCrypt give nearly all of the functionality offered by the leading market manufacturers. The availability of such software on the market negatively impacts big vendors who offer solutions to stop BEC frauds, which has a direct impact on their bottom lines. Therefore, it is anticipated that the accessibility of these free solutions will limit market growth throughout the forecast period. Offering Outlook Based on offering, the business email compromise (BEC) market is bifurcated into Solutions and Services. The services segment recorded a significant revenue share in the business email compromise (BEC) market in 2021. Businesses must provide security awareness training to educate staff how to spot phishing emails or BEC/EAC scams and instill in them a sense of caution when responding to emails that ask for login information or any kind of PII. The emails might look to have been sent by trusted people, and the requests for information frequently seem like they have a good cause. Deployment Mode Outlook On the basis of deployment mode, the business email compromise (BEC) market is classified into cloud and on-premises. Cloud segment procured the highest revenue share in the business email compromise (BEC) market in 2021. More businesses are using the cloud as their email option. Attackers and cybercriminals have noticed this pattern and are looking for ways to gain access to cloud-hosted email. For the purpose of remotely defending consumers from phishing emails, companies are proactively implementing cloud-based BEC solutions. Organization Size Outlook By organization size, the business email compromise (BEC) market is segmented into large enterprise and SMEs. SMEs segment garnered a significant revenue share in the business email compromise (BEC) market in 2021. It is due to the surging demand for various advanced solutions among SMEs in order to gain competitive edge in the market. Companies with a large number of vendors on their payroll and those who outsource work would not be able to tell a genuine invoice from a fraudulent one, making them vulnerable to BEC assaults. Vertical Outlook Based on vertical, the business email compromise (BEC) market is categorized into BFSI, Government, IT and ITES, energy & utilities, healthcare, retail & ecommerce, manufacturing and other verticals. BFSI segment recorded the highest revenue share in the business email compromise (BEC) market in 2021. The finance industry is riddled with BEC scams because money is exchanged between firms often and in substantial amounts. The fact that the payouts are frequently substantially bigger than those of conventional email phishing schemes is another factor contributing to their popularity in the BFSI sector. The dangers associated with the customer relationship that are involved indicate a paradigm shift in the way such attacks are being carried out. Regional Outlook Region-wise, the business email compromise (BEC) market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and LAMEA. North America emerged as the leading region in the business email compromise (BEC) market with the maximum revenue share in 2021. Regarding the development and deployment of security technologies, the region is the most advanced. The regions communication infrastructures are generally protected by a number of laws. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) supports US organizations by offering legislative guidelines to safeguard their vital infrastructure. The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., Broadcom, Inc., Fortinet, Inc., Cisco Systems, Inc., Trend Micro, Inc., Proofpoint, Inc., Mimecast Limited, Barracuda Networks, Inc. (Thoma Bravo), Agari (HelpSystems, LLC) and Zix Corporation. Strategies deployed in Business Email Compromise (BEC) Market May-2022: Proofpoint formed a partnership with Telefonica Tech, Telefonicas digital business unit. Under this partnership, Telefonica Tech launched Clean Email Enterprise in the Spanish market. Together, the companies would provide this cloud-based service that would combine various managed security solutions and offer companies with unparalleled, better protection against the rising number of email-borne threats. May-2022: Broadcom took over VMware, a leading innovator in enterprise software. This acquisition aimed to offer enterprise customers an expanded platform of important infrastructure solutions to boost innovation and acknowledge the most complicated information technology infrastructure requirements. Jun-2021: Proofpoint launched three flagship platforms: Threat Protection, Compliance, and the new Information Protection and Cloud Security. These products would integrate enterprise data loss prevention (DLP), remote browser isolation, cloud app security broker (CASB), insider threat management, zero-trust network access, and a cloud-native web security solution. Mar-2021: Cisco unveiled the simple and effective security with infrastructure agnostic, password less authentication by Duo. This expansion would effortlessly integrate into the prevailing Duo authentication experience utilized by more than 25,000 organizations globally, which would allow enterprise customers to skip the password and safely log into cloud applications through security keys or biometrics developed into modern laptops and smartphones. Feb-2021: Barracuda Networks announced a redesigned version of the Barracuda Email Threat Scanner. This tool would help companies identify and detect email threats getting past their email gateway. These threats involve highly targeted attacks, involving spear phishing, conversation hijacking, business email compromise, and service impersonation, among many others. Feb-2020: Proofpoint released the industrys first integrated, end-to-end solutions. These solutions would address business email compromise (BEC) and email account compromise (EAC) attacks by integrating Proofpoints secure email gateway, advanced threat protection, email authentication, threat response, security awareness training, and cloud account protection. Scope of the Study Market Segments covered in the Report: By Offering Solutions Services By Deployment Mode Cloud On-premises By Organization Size Large Enterprises SMEs By Vertical BFSI IT & ITeS Retail & eCommerce Manufacturing Government Energy & Utilities Healthcare Others By Geography North America o US o Canada o Mexico o Rest of North America Europe o Germany o UK o France o Russia o Spain o Italy o Rest of Europe Asia Pacific o China o Japan o India o South Korea o Singapore o Malaysia o Rest of Asia Pacific LAMEA o Brazil o Argentina o UAE o Saudi Arabia o South Africa o Nigeria o Rest of LAMEA Companies Profiled Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. Broadcom, Inc. Fortinet, Inc. Cisco Systems, Inc. Trend Micro, Inc. Proofpoint, Inc. Mimecast Limited Barracuda Networks, Inc. (Thoma Bravo) Agari (HelpSystems, LLC) Zix Corporation Unique Offerings Exhaustive coverage Highest number of market tables and figures Subscription based model available Guaranteed best price Assured post sales research support with 10% customization free Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06321890/?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 Visiongain Reports Ltd Visiongain has published a new report entitled the Targeting Pod Market Report 2022-2032. It includes profiles of Targeting Pod and Forecasts Market Segment by Fit (OEM Fit, Upgradation, Other Fit) Market Segment by Platform, (Combat Aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Attack Helicopters, Bombers, Other Platforms) Market Segment by Component, (FLIR Sensor, Charge Coupled Device (CCD) Camera, Environmental Control Unit (ECU), Moving Map System (MMS), Digital Data Recorder, Other Component) Market Segment by Type, (FLIR & Laser Designator Pods, Laser Designator Pods, FLIR Pods, Laser Spot Tracker) PLUS COVID-19 Impact Analysis and Recovery Pattern Analysis (V-shaped, W-shaped, U-shaped, L-shaped) Profiles of Leading Companies, Region and Country. The global targeting pod market was valued at US$1038 million in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period 2022-2032. Download Exclusive Sample of Report @ https://www.visiongain.com/report/targeting-pods-market-2022/#download_sampe_div Rise in Cross-Border Conflicts And Terrorist Activities The nature of conflict and violence has shifted considerably in the 75 years since the United Nations was created. Conflicts are now less lethal and are fought more frequently between domestic groups than between states. In some parts of the world, homicides are becoming more regular, while gender-based violence is on the rise everywhere. The long-term impact of interpersonal violence, particularly violence against children, on development is becoming recognised. Separately, technological advancements have raised concerns about lethal autonomous weaponry and cyberattacks, as well as the weaponization of bots and drones and the livestreaming of terrorist activities. Data hacking and ransomware have also become more prevalent. In the meantime, international cooperation is stretched, limiting global capability for avoiding and resolving all forms of conflict and violence. Story continues How has COVID-19 had a significant negative impact on the Targeting Pod Market? In all industries worldwide, COVID affected supply chains. The military industry is often resilient to global commercial shocks, although cushion defense characteristics have faded in recent years. Although it is still too early to predict precisely whether the industry is flat, shrinking or growing unaffected by the global pandemic, it is very important that defense companies identify what the major impact points are and assess the potential of defense undertakings to influence business plans, supply chains and the underlying lines. This will help to form steps to prevent the storm from happening to companies. Supply side shocks may be one of the most obvious outcomes of the defense pandemic. The initial victims of this pandemic are companies which are based in nations that are hardly touched by the virus or are dependent on supply chains in the countries concerned. The supplier chain and resource patterns of DTIB will also effect the production, since supply side limitations are more likely to be facing production waits with branching supply networks. The European DTIB has a fair number of branching supply chains with a final platform or solution of multiple components and subsystems from different suppliers. How this Report Will Benefit you? Visiongains 434+ page report provides 310 tables and 308 charts/graphs. Our new study is suitable for anyone requiring commercial, in-depth analyses for the global targeting pod market, along with detailed segment analysis in the market. Our new study will help you evaluate the overall global and regional market for Targeting Pod . Get the financial analysis of the overall market and different segments including type, fit, platform, systems and capture higher market share. We believe that high opportunity remains in this fast-growing targeting pod market. See how to use the existing and upcoming opportunities in this market to gain revenue benefits in the near future. Moreover, the report would help you to improve your strategic decision-making, allowing you to frame growth strategies, reinforce the analysis of other market players, and maximise the productivity of the company. What are the current market drivers? The Increasing Inclination Towards Aircraft Modernization The use of optical targeting pods (OTPs) in aircraft is becoming increasingly popular in the defence sector around the world. The introduction of a precision targeting system in which optical targeting facilitators define, identify, and track targets using laser beams has acquired widespread acceptance, resulting in a steady increase in demand for targeting pods, especially in the first half of the projected period. Over the last three decades, advancements in optical electro-targeting systems have boosted demand for targeting pods significantly. As a result of these causes, governments all over the world are raising their defence budgets. Advancements in Sensor Technology Object detection and tracking are critical components in a wide range of vision-based applications, including surveillance, vehicle navigation, driver assistance, activity recognition, and so on. As a result, a variety of techniques have been presented in the literature to deal with problems arising from differences in object appearance, occlusion situations, sensor ego-motion, and other factors. For years, research has been concentrated on the visible light spectrum, with excellent solutions developed for single and multiple monocular or stereo cameras. Unfortunately, techniques that rely primarily on visible light sensors have not been able to deliver totally satisfactory results in low-light circumstances. Where are the market opportunities? The Increased Need for Futuristic Technologies The US Air Force made an initial order for Northrop Grumman Corporation's LITENING advanced targeting pods in July 2020, and the company has already delivered around 900 LITENING pods to the US Air Force and other overseas clients as of mid-2020. After being released in 2012, Northrop Grumman's fourth-generation airborne monitoring pod surpassed 1 million flight hours in February 2019 with combat aircraft platforms. United States and other defence clients have used the new LITENING pod on aircraft platforms as the F/A-18, F-16, F-15, C-130, B-52, A-10, and AV-8B. As of mid-2019, Northrop had logged about 3 million operational hours for the system's II, extended range better targeting, and fourth-generation variants. Get Detailed TOC @ https://www.visiongain.com/report/targeting-pods-market-2022/#download_sampe_div The Launch Of Military Modernization Programs By Many Nations Around The World To improve target engagement capabilities, military agencies are investing in modern targeting pods to be integrated into ageing aircraft. For example, the US Department of Defense awarded Sierra Nevada Corporation (an electronic systems provider and systems integrator specialising in microsatellites, telemedicine, and commercial orbital transportation services headquartered in Nevada, US) a 329-million-dollar contract in 2019 to build 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). Embraer SA designed and manufactured the A-29 Super Tucano, a Brazilian turboprop light attack plane (Brazilian defence conglomerate). The A-29 Super Tucano is a low-cost system that can carry a wide range of weaponry, including precision-guided missiles. It was designed to operate in low-threat situations. Embraer has established a production line in the United States in collaboration with Sierra Nevada Corporation for the construction of A-29s for a variety of export customers, in addition to its manufacturing in Brazil. FLIR designator targeting pods are included in the deal for six of the planes. Ground training equipment, mission planning systems, mission debriefing systems, spares, ground support equipment, and support services are all included in the deal, in addition to the 12 aircraft. Competitive Landscape The major players operating in the targeting pod market are Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Raytheon Company, L-3 Harris Technologies, BAE Systems, Thales Group, Aselsan A.S, Ultra Electronics Holdings, Elbit Systems Ltd, Boeing Company, Moog Inc, FLIR Systems, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., Israel Aerospace Industries, Qioptiq Photonics GmbH & Co KG.These major players operating in this market have adopted various strategies comprising M&A, investment in R&D, collaborations, partnerships, regional business expansion, and new product launch. Find quantitative and qualitative analyses with independent predictions. Receive information that only our report contains, staying informed with this invaluable business intelligence. To access the data contained in this document please email dev.visavadia@visiongain.com Information found nowhere else With our newly report title, you are less likely to fall behind in knowledge or miss out on opportunities. See how our work could benefit your research, analyses, and decisions. Visiongain's study is for everybody needing commercial analyses for the Targeting pod market and leading companies . You will find data, trends and predictions. Find more Visiongain research reports on Defence Surveillance Systems ; click on the following links: Do you have any custom requirements we can help you with? Any need for a specific country, geo region, market segment or specific company information? Contact us today, we can discuss your needs and see how we can help: dev.visavadia@visiongain.com About Visiongain Visiongain is one of the fastest growing and most innovative, independent, market intelligence around, the company publishes hundreds of market research reports which it adds to its extensive portfolio each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis across 18 industries worldwide. The reports cover a 10-year forecast, are hundreds of pages long, with in depth market analysis and valuable competitive intelligence data. Visiongain works across a range of vertical markets, which currently can influence one another, these markets include automotive, aviation, chemicals, cyber, defense, energy, food & drink, materials, packaging, pharmaceutical and utilities sectors. Our customized and syndicated market research reports mean that you can have a bespoke piece of market intelligence customized to your very own business needs. Contact: Dev Visavadia PR at Visiongain Reports Limited Tel: + 44 0207 336 6100 Email: dev.visavadia@visiongain.com TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Today, Google Canada is announcing $2.7 million in Google.org grants to empower Canadians to stay safe online and to build more inclusive economic opportunities for Indigenous communities in Canada. Alongside today's news, research from Public First was released revealing Google's impact on the Canadian economy. Google Canada Logo (CNW Group/Google Canada) (CNW Group/Google Canada) To help close the significant skills and education gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations in Canada, ComIT will receive a Google.org grant of over $1.3 million to continue their work to reskill Indigenous job seekers for new careers in technology. ComIT's Recoding Futures program was created in 2020 with the support of Google.org to provide IT training to Indigenous learners across Canada. The program runs virtually and covers topics like Design Thinking, HTML, CSS, Javascript .NET, Python, React and Node. "ComIT is thrilled to receive continued support from Google to bring free technology training to Indigenous students across Canada, and increase Indigenous representation in the Canadian tech sector," said Pablo Listingart, Executive Director, ComIT. "Since announcing the Recoding Futures program in 2020, over 1,600 Indigenous students have registered for the program, with over 800 students having completed or currently enrolled." Google is also announcing new grants from Google.org to support online safety and efforts to combat disinformation among underserved communities. According to research, Canadians under 25 years old spend an average of 7 hours online every day and 42% of Canadians experienced at least one cyber security incident during the pandemic, which has highlighted an increase in cyber threat actors and complexity for Canadians. Actua will receive a Google.org grant of over $670K to expand its Engage. Empower. Connect project that empowers youth from vulnerable groups with the skills, awareness and confidence to be cyber smart. "We are incredibly grateful for Google.org's grant towards our cyber smart project that empowers youth to explore, create and connect safely online," says Jennifer Flanagan, CEO, Actua. "With the rapid acceleration in digital transformation, young people in Canada are online now more than ever. Google's commitment will help us equip diverse youth populations with the skills and confidence to critically assess online interactions, avert online threats, and safely use technology and participate in its design." Story continues To help improve digital media literacy in Canada, MediaSmarts will receive a Google.org grant of over $670K to develop and implement a National Digital Media Literacy Education Training Program focused on supporting underrepresented communities. The program aims to help Canadians employ critical thinking skills when they use, create, and engage with content online. "Thanks to this grant from Google.org, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to provide digital media literacy education for people across the country. We are excited to work with community partners to help give more people the opportunity to engage online as active and informed digital citizens," says Kathryn Ann Hill, Executive Director of MediaSmarts. Independent consultancy, Public First also released new research about Google's impact on the Canadian economy today. Public First estimates that in 2021, Google Search, Google Play, YouTube, Google Cloud and Google Advertising tools helped provide $37B of economic activity for Canadian businesses, nonprofits, publishers, creators and developers. That's the equivalent of about 1.5% of Canada's GDP, more than forestry and aviation combined. "Google Canada's 2021 Economic Impact Report represents a digital tipping point for Canada and demonstrates the value and opportunity a digital presence brings to Canadian creators and businesses across this country," says Sabrina Geremia, VP & Country Manager, Google Canada. "As the digital economy expands, we're also continuing to commit to Canada's future, including digital skills development, supporting online safety, and combatting disinformation." Key report findings: In 2021, Google helped drive over 235M direct connections monthly, including phone calls, requests for directions, messages, bookings and reviews for Canadian businesses. In 2021, more than 1.9 million Canadian businesses and sole traders received phone calls, requests for directions, messages, bookings, reviews and other direct connections to their customers from Google. Public First estimates that in 2021, Google Search and Ads are supporting $1.7 billion in exports for the Canadian economy. The report also looks at how Google's products and services have helped Canadians find authoritative information, improve productivity, keep learning and find jobs. Full report can be found here . About Google Canada Google's mission is to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. As a global technology leader, Google's innovations in web search and advertising have made its website a top internet property and its brand one of the most recognized in the world. Google Canada has offices in Waterloo, Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa with employees working on teams across Engineering, AI Research, Sales and Marketing. About Google.org Google's philanthropy brings the best of Google to help solve some of humanity's biggest challenges combining funding, product donations, and technical expertise to support underserved communities and provide opportunity for everyone. We engage nonprofits and social enterprises who make a significant impact on the communities they represent, and whose work has the potential to produce meaningful change. We want a better world, faster and we believe in supporting organizations leveraging technology and applying scalable data-driven innovation to move the needle. About ComIT ComIT is a registered charity that provides free training and professional development opportunities in information technology. Their courses are taught by IT professionals working at leading companies, with a curated curriculum built to ensure graduates are equipped to meet the needs of the immediate labor market. ComIT believes that the democratization of education and opportunity is Canada's path forward. Applications are now open for ComIT's Recoding Futures program. Interested applicants can visit ComIT.org to register. About Actua Actua is Canada's largest science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) youth outreach organization representing over 40 university and college-based members . Each year, Actua's growing network of member organizations engages over 350,000 young people in 500 communities nationwide in transformative STEM learning experiences that build critical skills and confidence. Actua focuses on engaging underrepresented youth through specialized programs for Indigenous youth, girls and young women, at-risk youth, and youth living in Northern and remote communities. Its major funding partners include the Government of Canada, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, RBC Foundation, the Suncor Energy Foundation, Protein Industries Canada, TD Bank Group, Toyota Canada Foundation, Enbridge, Microsoft Canada, NCR Foundation and Imperial. For more information about Actua, visit actua.ca . About MediaSmarts MediaSmarts , a registered Canadian charity, is Canada's centre for digital media literacy. Their vision is that all Canadians have the critical thinking skills to engage with digital media as active and informed digital citizens. About Public First Public First is a global strategic consultancy that works to help organizations better understand public opinion, analyse economic trends and craft new policy proposals. SOURCE Google Canada Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2022/03/c3308.html Funding of $11.1 million for two UBC projects that will improve pathogen response and boost the impact of B.C. biotechnology on the global stage VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Pacific Economic Development Canada Government of Canada announces funding for advancements in mRNA vaccine technology at the University of British Columbia (CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada) British Columbians continue to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, whether at home, at work, or in their community. Throughout the pandemic, science has provided the greatest defense, particularly through mRNA vaccines. These vaccines trigger the body's immune response to help protect against infection and severe illness. Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister for International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $11.1 million in funding through PacifiCan for the University of British Columbia (UBC) to undertake two new projects to enhance the delivery and efficacy of mRNA vaccines. The first of these two complementary projects is receiving $3.5 million in PacifiCan support. It aims to optimize how mRNA vaccines are administered on a cellular level, improving uptake into the body. This will reduce potential side-effects of mRNA vaccines, improve their efficacy and allow for a smaller vaccine dosage. Research conducted through this project will help to streamline the production of existing mRNA vaccines and inform the development of future medicines across the globe. The second project, with $7.6 million in PacifiCan support, aims to identify and address new COVID-19 variants before they can spread. Through studying existing variants at the molecular level, researchers will use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to predict and develop mRNA vaccine treatments for potential future pathogens. This project will enable a nimble, home-grown response to emerging COVID-19 variants, helping to protect Canadians, and further solidify B.C. as a leader in the biotechnology sector. Investing in the health and safety of all Canadians is a key priority for the Government of Canada. In British Columbia, PacifiCan is committed to advancing the research and commercialization of life-saving biotechnology, supporting the regional economy, and building pandemic resilience across the globe. Story continues Quotes "PacifiCan is committed to supporting British Columbia's life sciences sector and these projects at the University of British Columbia reflect that commitment. Establishing a home-grown pipeline for mRNA vaccine research will not only save lives, but create jobs for British Columbians and position Canada as a global leader in biotechnology innovation." - The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada "With cutting-edge research led by some of the brightest minds globally, UBC continues to excel in biotechnology and life sciences research and innovation. With the generous support of the Government of Canada through PacifiCan announced today, our researchers will be able to help development treatments for new COVID-19 variants and improve the efficacy of mRNA vaccines and other therapeutics for a wide range of diseases." - Santa J. Ono, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of British Columbia "UBC has long been a major driver of the B.C. biotech sector, but those connections and their outputs really gained international attention during the pandemic. AbCellera, Acuitas, and Precision Nanosystems, among many others, are now major players in the treatment and prevention of diseases. This funding builds off many years of collaboration between UBC and local biotech companies and will enable us to continue developing and refining vaccines, drugs, and biologics." - Dr. Leonard Foster, Professor, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia Quick facts PacifiCan is investing $11,180,000 through its Regional Innovation Ecosystem program. This program aims to grow and nurture priority sectors across British Columbia, building an inclusive ecosystem that allows those sectors to innovate and compete globally. Projects funded through the Regional Innovation Ecosystem program must support at least one priority sector, such as life sciences, clean technology, or agriculture. Additionally, these projects must support the hiring and training of under-represented groups, including Indigenous peoples, women, and youth. PacifiCan is the Government of Canada's regional development agency dedicated to British Columbia. PacifiCan promotes growth and diversification in British Columbia's economy by enhancing innovation, improving business competitiveness, and promoting inclusive growth. Associated links Stay connected Follow PacifiCan on Twitter and LinkedIn Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388 Backgrounder: Government of Canada announces funding for advancements in mRNA vaccine technology at the University of British Columbia Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced an investment of over $11.1 million through the Regional Innovation Ecosystem program for two projects at the University of British Columbia (UBC). These projects will focus on advancing the delivery and efficacy of mRNA vaccine technology. The two project teams will work in tandem, meeting regularly and coordinating research to maximize the value and effectiveness of both projects. Improve the delivery technology behind mRNA vaccines and other nanomedicines $3,500,000 The University of British Columbia will acquire key equipment and enhance lab resources to improve vaccine delivery technology. In partnership with leading B.C. biotechnology companies, UBC aims to accelerate the development of vaccine delivery techniques for commercial application on a global scale. Through analyzing how mRNA vaccines interact with cells and create defenses against pathogens, researchers will work to optimize the administration of those vaccines. Key objectives in this research project include minimizing any potential side effects, reducing the necessary vaccine dosage, and optimizing the potency of mRNA vaccines, among others. This work will advance the development of future mRNA vaccines and other medicines. Expected economic benefits of this project include the creation of 70 new jobs, the training of 80 new highly qualified biotechnology professionals, and revenue growth of at least $90 million for the B.C. biotechnology sector. Grow B.C. biotech by advancing in-vitro and in-situ antiviral therapy for SARS-CoV2 variants $7,680,000 This project will see UBC acquire key equipment and enhance lab operations to advance antiviral therapy for COVID-19 variants. This will involve identifying, testing and developing responses to existing COVID-19 variants and establishing a vaccine development framework in B.C. Working closely with B.C. biotechnology companies, UBC will study the COVID-19 Delta variant at a molecular level and use AI predictive models to create mRNA vaccine treatments for potential future variants. Through this process, UBC and its partners will develop a pipeline for rapid anti-viral drug development, enabling a local response to new and emerging COVID-19 variants for worldwide commercial application. Overall, this will allow B.C. to provide international leadership in vaccine research and raise the visibility of B.C. biotech within the global community. Expected economic benefits of this project include creating at least 170 jobs at UBC and industry partners, training 75 highly qualified personnel and growing revenue by at least $70 million for the B.C. biotechnology sector. SOURCE Pacific Economic Development Canada Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2022/03/c8150.html NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The global hearing aids 3D printing devices market is fragmented due to the presence of several international and regional players. The vendors are adopting various strategies such as mergers and acquisitions, expansions, and partnerships to gain an edge in the market. They are also focusing on the development of new products to strengthen their presence among consumers. In addition, growing advances in technology and product innovation have increased the competition level in the market. The increasing demand for digital hearing aids is creating new opportunities for vendors to enter this market. With a large number of new entrants in the market, it is expected that the global hearing aids 3D printing devices market will be competitive during the forecast period. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Hearing Aids 3D Printing Devices Market 2022-2026 Our full report provides a detailed analysis of the vendor landscape, the competitive scenario, the successful growth strategies adopted by various vendors, and much more. Download Free Sample Report before purchasing. Technavio expects the market size to grow by USD 384.7 million, accelerating at a CAGR of 18.15% during the forecast period. According to the report, the market growth will be driven by factors such as the rising number of hearing aid patients, increasing public-private investment in 3D printing projects, and increasing adoption of 3D printing technology. This study identifies the integration of IoT as one of the prime trends in the market. Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our hearing aids 3D printing devices market report covers the following areas: The report identifies the following as the dominant players in the market: 3D Systems Corp: The company offers 3D printing devices such as Figure 4 standalone, Figure 4 pro BLK 10, and Figure 4 rubber 65 k BLK. 3Shape AS: The company offers 3D printing devices such as 3Shape A2 audio scanner. Asiga: The company offers 3D printing devices such as Max UV and Pro 4K80 UV. Autodesk Inc: The company offers 3D printing devices such as within medical software that enables designers to create medical implants. Desktop Metal Inc.: The company offers 3D printing devices such as D4K, P4K, and Envision one. EOS GmbH Electro Optical Systems Formlabs Inc Groupe Gorge SA Materialise NV Rapid Shape GmbH Renishaw Plc Shining 3D Tech Co. Ltd Sonova AG Stratasys Ltd. Story continues Hearing Aids 3D Printing Devices Market 2022-2026: Segmentation The global hearing aids 3D printing devices market is segmented as below: Product The market growth in the 3D printing services segment will be significant over the forecast period. The segment is driven by the increasing demand for hearing aids 3D printing hardware and software. Geography North America will dominate the growth of the market, occupying 42% of the global market share. The availability of improved healthcare infrastructure, the high adoption of 3D printing medical devices in healthcare facilities, and the presence of established vendors are driving the growth of the regional market. Also, the growing aging population is expected to contribute to the growth of the hearing aids 3D printed devices market in North America during the forecast period. Identify key segments to invest in over the forecast period. Download Free Sample Report Hearing Aids 3D Printing Devices Market 2022-2026: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the hearing aids 3D printing devices market, including some of the key vendors. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research report on the hearing aids 3D printing devices market is designed to provide entry support, customer profile, and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Hearing Aids 3D Printing Devices Market 2022-2026: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2022-2026 Detailed information on factors that will assist hearing aids 3D printing devices market growth during the next five years Estimation of the hearing aids 3D printing devices market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the hearing aids 3D printing devices market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of hearing aids 3D printing devices market vendors Related Reports: Hearing Aids 3D Printing Devices Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 18.15% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 384.7 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 17.95 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 42% Key consumer countries US, Japan, China, Germany, and France Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled 3D Systems Corp, 3Shape AS, Asiga, Autodesk Inc, Desktop Metal Inc., EOS GmbH Electro Optical Systems, Formlabs Inc, Groupe Gorge SA, Materialise NV, Rapid Shape GmbH, Renishaw Plc, Shining 3D Tech Co. Ltd, Sonova AG, and Stratasys Ltd. Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and future consumer dynamics, and 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. Table Of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 1.1 Market overview 2 Market Landscape 2.1 Market ecosystem 3 Market Sizing 3.1 Market definition 3.2 Market segment analysis 3.3 Market size 2021 3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026 4 Five Forces Analysis 4.1 Five forces summary 4.2 Bargaining power of buyers 4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers 4.4 Threat of new entrants 4.5 Threat of substitutes 4.6 Threat of rivalry 4.7 Market condition 5 Market Segmentation by Product 5.1 Market segments 5.2 Comparison by Product 5.3 3D printing services - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.4 3D printing materials - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.5 3D printing hardware - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.6 3D printing software - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 5.7 Market opportunity by Product 6 Customer Landscape 6.1 Customer landscape overview 7 Geographic Landscape 7.1 Geographic segmentation 7.2 Geographic comparison 7.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.9 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.10 France - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.11 Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.12 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 7.13 Market opportunity by geography 8 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 8.1 Market drivers 8.2 Market challenges 8.3 Impact of drivers and challenges 8.4 Market trends 9 Vendor Landscape 9.1 Overview 9.2 Vendor landscape 9.3 Landscape disruption 9.4 Industry risks 10 Vendor Analysis 10.1 Vendors covered 10.2 Market positioning of vendors 10.3 3D Systems Corp 10.4 3Shape AS 10.5 Asiga 10.6 Autodesk Inc 10.7 Desktop Metal Inc. 10.8 Formlabs Inc 10.9 Groupe Gorge SA 10.10 Materialise NV 10.11 Rapid Shape GmbH 10.12 Shining 3D Tech Co. Ltd 11 Appendix 11.1 Scope of the report 11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist 11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ 11.4 Research methodology 11.5 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 provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Global Hearing Aids 3D Printing Devices Market 2022-2026 Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hearing-aids-3d-printing-devices-market-to-record-usd-384-7-mn-incremental-growth--north-america-to-have-largest-market-share-301636639.html SOURCE Technavio As part of its commitment to mitigating climate change, leading Spanish infrastructure group Acciona said it had recently acquired electrical machinery through its asset management department for use in the construction projects being implemented by the company across the globe. This pilot project, part of the companys decarbonization plan, makes Acciona the first Spanish construction company to invest in this kind of electrical machinery. Specifically, Acciona has purchased four telescopic handlers and two rotating dumpers, which will mainly be used in urban construction projects. Thanks to their 100% electrical operation, great improvements are made in reducing pollutant emissions and noise levels on site. The first of the handlers, bought by the company from the international manufacturer JCB through its distributor Walkia, was handed over in Accionas Machinery Depot in Seville, Spain. Following a series of tests, it is being used in a housing construction project in the Spanish province of Cadiz. The other three machines of this type will be delivered by the end of this year. Overall, it is estimated that the use of this electrical machinery could reduce up to 100 tonnes of CO2 emissions, it added. "The Acciona move is in bid to reduce its direct emissions and those generated by its energy consumption by 60% between 2017 and 2030, aiming at the most ambitious target of the Paris Climate Agreement to limit global warming to no more than 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, said a company spokesman. Among the measures that Acciona has implemented to achieve this target, the company has launched a decarbonization fund to finance projects with potential for significantly reducing emissions. This purchase of electrical machinery is one of the initiatives that will receive support from the companys decarbonization fund, it added. TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Invesco Canada Ltd. ("Invesco") today announced changes to the Invesco Fixed Income (IFI) Investment Grade portfolio management team in Canada and the following funds: Invesco Canadian Core Plus Bond Fund Invesco Canadian Short-Term Bond Fund Invesco ESG Canadian Core Plus Bond ETF Fund Invesco Global Bond Fund Invesco Canadian Premier Balanced Fund Invesco Canadian Premier Balanced Class Invesco Diversified Yield Class Invesco Global Balanced Fund Invesco Global Balanced Class Invesco Global Diversified Income Fund Invesco Global Select Balanced Fund Invesco Income Growth Fund Invesco Select Balanced Fund Invesco ESG Canadian Core Plus Bond ETF Invesco ESG Global Bond Fund ETF The Invesco Investment Grade Team will continue to be led by Michael Hyman, Head of Global Credit Strategies. Mr. Hyman is supported by Matt Brill, Head of North American Investment Grade and Todd Schomberg, Senior Portfolio Manager. Collectively, Mr. Hyman, Mr. Brill and Mr. Schomberg have over 70 years in the industry and almost 2 decades of managing portfolios together. Avi Hooper, Portfolio Manager, will be removed from the portfolios listed above, effective today, October 3, 2022. There will be no change to the investment objective, philosophy and process for these Funds. Since the expansion of IFI into the Canadian marketplace, the firm's investment grade strategies have been managed leveraging the full set of resources, expertise and capabilities of 175 investment professionals managing over US$392B in assets for clients around the globe as of June 30, 2022. The IFI team emphasizes a disciplined, repeatable process combining both top-down and bottom-up research that aims to uncover favorable risk/reward opportunities. About Invesco Ltd. Invesco Ltd. is a global independent investment management firm dedicated to delivering an investment experience that helps people get more out of life. Our distinctive investment teams deliver a comprehensive range of active, passive and alternative investment capabilities. With offices in more than 20 countries, Invesco managed $1.4 trillion USD in assets on behalf of clients worldwide as of June 30, 2022. For more information, visit www.invesco.com. Story continues Commissions, management fees and expenses may all be associated with investments in mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Trailing commissions may be associated with investments in mutual funds. Mutual funds and ETFs are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. There are risks involved with investing in ETFs and mutual funds. Please read the prospectus before investing. Copies are available from Invesco Canada Ltd. at www.invesco.ca. Invesco is a registered business name of Invesco Canada Ltd. Invesco and all associated trademarks are trademarks of Invesco Holding Company Limited, used under licence. Invesco Canada Ltd., 2022 Media Relations Contact: Matthew Chisum 212-652-4368 SOURCE Invesco Ltd. New Leaf Ventures Inc. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New Leaf Ventures Inc. (CSE: NLV) (OTC: NLVVD) (New Leaf, NLV or the Company), announces that it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent to acquire High Profile Holdings Corp. (High Profile), a retail-focused private British Columbia cannabis company (the Acquisition). High Profile offers premium cultivated products and an elevated retail presence with its store-within-a-store-activations. High Profile brings pre-existing relationships with both seasoned retailers and government regulatory bodies. These strategic partnerships offer product listings in retail chains across Canada. These relationships will assist New Leaf in ensuring that High Profiles rare and curated strains are successfully marketed and sold in top performing markets in Canada. We are excited to have entered into this LOI with New Leaf Ventures to be able to bring the long-term strategic vision of High Profile to life. This partnership will see High Profiles highly sought-after genetic library enter the legal market in Canada. We are looking forward to the enhanced operational synergies and long-term growth this partnership will provide, states Dean Medwid President of High Profile Holdings Corp. "We are thrilled to announce the signing of this LOI with High Profile. The team behind High Profile has a history of operational success and we look forward to adding their skill set to the team here at New Leaf. We believe that the proposed acquisition of High Profile not only opens another avenue for revenue but an additional platform to show case our established brands and IP. Their well-established distribution network is the first step and an important piece in the Companys strategic expansion plan, stated Mike Stier, President, CEO and Director. As mentioned in the previous news release, the US trading symbol has changed from NLVVF to NLVVD on a temporary basis and will revert back to NLVVF on approximately October 7, 2022. There will be no impact on the trading of the common shares during this time. The Acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including customary due diligence and the execution of a definitive agreement. The Company will provide updates in due course, as conditions are met. Story continues About New Leaf Ventures Inc. (CSE: NLV) (OTC: NLVVD) New Leaf Ventures Inc. is developing a cannabis sector-based scalable concept of focused financing and applied management to achieve earnings growth through targeted investment. The Companys flagship enterprise is New Leaf USA and its subsidiaries, which provide licenses, real property, intellectual property and equipment for lease, certain administrative services and other ancillary services to a Washington-based Tier 3 Processor focused on processing, packaging, and distributing cannabis and cannabis related products Find out more at: https://newleafventuresinc.com/. For consumer interest visit: https://www.damawashington.com/ and https://damalife.com/. For further information, please contact: New Leaf Ventures Inc. Investor Relations Tel: +1 (778) 930-1321 Email: investors@newleafventuresinc.com Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the potential completion of the Acquisition, the expected benefits of the Acquisition to both New Leaf and High Profile and the Companys intention to expand its business are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations and beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / As our world continues to navigate the climate crisis, the role of a Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) has never been more urgent or important. At its very core, sustainability is about fulfilling the needs of those in the present without compromising those of future generations. With the global shift towards an ESG mindset, businesses are racing to integrate ESG into their business strategies. Companies can no longer afford to close an eye when it comes to the division between conceptualising and actually executing a sustainable business strategy. Acre, Monday, October 3, 2022, Press release picture Although companies are increasingly turning their sights to sustainability, many still struggle to implement concrete sustainable business practices due to a lack of talent. In other words, companies might not have enough bandwidth or expertise to develop a robust sustainability strategy - and this is where the importance of the CSO comes in. The role of today's CSO is constantly evolving to address different developments within the ESG space. Of course, we cannot leave out a good set of knowledge about both the sustainability landscape and the organisation, but this does not mean that we can simply push for any high-ranking position holder to take on the role of the CSO; other factors must be considered as well. In purpose-led roles like the CSO, it takes more than technical expertise to succeed in driving change and delivering desired business outcomes. We need to look beyond a candidate's experience and technical expertise to determine if they have the key skills to disrupt traditional thinking and deliver measurable impact. At Acre, we co-created a market-leading competency framework in collaboration with industry leaders that identifies the key non-technical competencies required for current and future leaders. This allows us to better understand the candidates' strengths as well as development needs, and determine their fit for a specific role or company. Story continues We've identified eight non-technical or "soft" skills, as listed below: Strategy development and delivery An ideal CSO candidate should possess a future-focused perspective when creating a strategy; one that places purpose right at the very heart of the business. While ideating this strategy, the individual should also keep all business goals in mind, designing a versatile but innovative approach that responds to the needs of all stakeholders involved. Legacy and impact While irreversible damage to our environment can be created overnight, the same cannot be said about systemic change; enormous amounts of time and effort are needed to create sustainable impact. The CSO candidate must understand this and the importance of improving an evolving strategy that is prepared to address any issues that might be thrown their way. As purposeful networks are created and expanded, knowledge is shared and all of us will stand to improve from it. A legacy is created from one's genuine motivations. Executive influence To exert one's influence, stellar communication skills are needed to convey how systemic challenges create organisational risk and opportunity across all business functions and at all levels, including C-suite. An image that is consistent with company values should also be exhibited, demonstrating one's energy and passion to achieve company objectives. Innovation and courage Compared to other disciplines, ESG started to gain traction not too long ago; it is vital for a CSO candidate to possess professional curiosity and creative thinking as developments within the practice of ESG analysis take place. Confidence and bravery to back one's beliefs, even when deemed controversial, is also extremely vital. Inclusive leadership CSO candidates need to be able to understand the complexities of operating across different businesses, business units, geographies, and cultures - this is important as a company adapts their approach to ESG. Above all, both consistency and flexibility have to be present in the strategy conceived by a CSO. Leads high performing teams Just like any leader in any business unit, an ideal CSO candidate should possess a trove of leadership qualities needed to lead a successful team. The candidate should understand the needs and motivations of their members to provide effective guidance, at the same time mobilising their diverse skill sets to deliver the highest standard of output. Business insight Company values and beliefs are important in any organisation, hence the need to explore ways to embed purpose and add value in line with the company's objectives. Aside from a targeted focus on the areas of ESG and sustainability, a CSO candidate should be able to develop a strong understanding of other core business functions, analysing how his strategy or plan might impact the bottom line. Driving change through others All in all, inspiring others to adopt your views on sustainability is key - by amassing a substantial network, mutual benefit can arise from co-delivering a purposeful sustainability strategy. While these 8 non-technical competencies offer only a glimpse into the intricacies of the role of the CSO, I hope this article helps companies get a better sense and understanding of what to look for in a CSO, and also serve as a guide for current CSOs and leaders to further hone their current skill set as well. Paddy joined Acre in 2022 to lead the expansion of the Acre business in APAC. Originally from the UK Paddy has spent over 15 years working across multiple markets in the APAC region with relationships in the finance and commercial sectors. At Acre he is specifically aligned with the growth of the sustainable finance, impact investing and sustainable energy practice. This includes working with banks, insurers, pension funds, investment managers, private debt, equity & real-asset funds, family offices and foundations for roles which are sustainability themed and/or impact aligned as well as any sustainability and ESG related positions across all other functions. Paddy has a BSc (Hons) in Geography from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne. At Acre, we work with the most aspirational businesses with potential to make real change; from those who are just starting out to those who are well on the journey to crafting a legacy. Our 18 years' experience in sustainability recruitment, combined with our extensive global network, enables us to provide talent solutions that are designed to deliver this change. Through our unique behavioural assessment technology, we understand the types of people, skills and behaviours required to create impact. We can develop these qualities within your existing teams too. We find talented people and develop their skills to ensure they make a true impact in ambitious, progressive organisations. Acre. Making companies ready for tomorrow. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Acre on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Acre Website: https://www.acre.com/ Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Acre View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/718517/The-Making-of-a-Top-Chief-Sustainability-Officer-8-Non-technical-Competencies-To-Have Asylum-seeking immigrants from Cuba walk along a dirt road in Del Rio, Texas, after crossing into the US from Mexico. Adrees Latif / Reuters A Texas man who ran a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility that has a history of abuse allegations is accused of fatally shooting an immigrant and injuring another while they drank water along a farm road. Michael Sheppard, 60, was arrested last week after authorities said he fired two rounds from a shotgun at a group of immigrants in an area near the southern border, killing a man and injuring a woman. His twin brother, Mark Sheppard, was also arrested, and both face manslaughter charges. On Tuesday near sundown, the brothers allegedly drove past a group of suspected undocumented immigrants who had stopped to drink water out of a reservoir in the desert near Sierra Blanca, Texas, according to law enforcement affidavits. Michael Sheppard is accused of backing up his truck and yelling at the group to leave before leaning over the hood of his truck and firing the shotgun. The brothers then drove off to a water board meeting without checking to see if the gunfire had struck anyone, the affidavits said. An immigrant man died at the scene from his injuries, and a woman who was shot in the stomach was taken to a hospital. When authorities questioned Michael Sheppard about the shooting, he was reluctant to discuss it and left, according to the affidavit. His brother initially told investigators the pair weren't near the site of the shooting, but later admitted they were. Michael Sheppard AP / Via El Paso County Sheriff's Office Mark Sheppard initially told authorities they had stopped at the water tank and were looking for ducks to shoot, then changed it to birds, and then to javelinas. His brother exited the truck and fired the shotgun, he said. Mark Sheppard told investigators he then asked his brother, "Did you get him?" But he then changed the "him" to "it," an affidavit said. Immigrants in the group told federal agents they were hiding in the brush when a man shouted something to the effect of, "Come out, you sons of bitches, little asses!" before revving the truck's engine. The immigrants looked up to see if the vehicle had left, and that's when they heard the shots that ended up striking two of them, according to the affidavits. Story continues The shootings come amid a contentious national debate about immigrants and asylum-seekers at the border. They also follow years of complaints by immigrants against Michael Sheppard, who was the warden at the West Texas Detention Center in Sierra Blanca, Texas. The facility operated by the for-profit prison company LaSalle Corrections held immigrants for ICE up until October 2019. LaSalle Corrections and ICE didn't immediately respond to requests for comment, but the private prison company told the San Antonio Express-News that Michael Sheppard was the warden up until last week, when he was fired. A 2018 report on the facility based on interviews with 30 African detainees who were set to be deported detailed physical assaults, sexual abuse, dangerously unsanitary conditions, and denial of medical care. All of the 30 men reported being pepper-sprayed at least once, and 14 reported being physically assaulted. Dalmar, an African detainee, said the warden of the West Texas Detention Center hit him in the face four times while he was at the nurses station, according to the report. When Dalmar was sent to solitary, he said, he was forced to lie on the ground with his hands cuffed behind him while he was kicked repeatedly by the warden. In another incident detailed in the report, an African detainee said the warden told him, "Shut your Black ass up. You dont deserve nothing. You belong at the back of that cage, when he asked for underwear and socks. Another detainee said he heard the warden say, "Now you belong to me, boy" to another Somali detainee. Most of the immigrants, some of whom filed complaints with the Department of Homeland Security and the Justice Department, were later deported to an active war zone, the Intercept reported. RAICES, one of the immigrant advocacy organizations that authored the report, said it had documented years of racism and abuse by Michael Sheppard and the jailers he oversaw. "ICEs failure to hold Sheppard accountable emboldened him to continue his pattern of abuse towards migrants," RAICES said in a statement. "Culminating in Sheppard and his brother harassing migrants in the street, shooting into a group of migrants, killing one man and wounding a woman." Alex Miller, director of the American Immigration Councils Immigration Justice Campaign, also called out ICE and LaSalle Corrections for allowing Michael Sheppard to continue running the West Texas Detention Center despite years of allegations. "Unfortunately, racism, violence, and inhumane conditions are not unique to this facility," Miller said in a statement. "We need to stop treating serious allegations as outliers and understand that these issues are endemic and acknowledge that immigration detention cannot be made over." DHS must also ensure that the survivors and witnesses of the shooting are not expelled or deported, Miller said, in addition to being offered protections as victims of a crime or other humanitarian relief. Texas Democratic Rep. Joaquin Castro called the shooting a hate crime and a murder, stoked by fears of an immigrant invasion by Republican politicians like Gov. Greg Abbott and conservative media personalities. "There was no way for the killers to know who their victims were or what their legal status was," Castro said in a statement. "The division and fear that Greg Abbott and his fellow bigots have created has made Texas a more dangerous place for all Hispanics." More on this Featured Image for RelaDyne Featured Image for RelaDyne CINCINNATI, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RelaDyne announced today that its national automotive brand, DuraMAX, will supply oil to Take 5 Oil Change's network of over 750 company-operated and franchised locations across the U.S. through its direct footprint and trusted Associate Distributor Network. As part of the Driven Brands portfolio, Take 5 Oil Change, known for its unique, stay-in-your-car concept, was rated No. 1 in customer satisfaction for quick lube by JD Power in 2022 and it has been one of the fastest-growing players in the category across the U.S. and Canada. In addition to its large and growing company-operated footprint, it was named 42nd on Entrepreneur Magazine's 2022 list of the Fastest-Growing Franchises. RelaDyne, Inc., headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is the established leader in lubricant and fuel distribution plus industrial reliability services. Through an empowered and dedicated team of associates, RelaDyne strives to create incredible value in the products, tools, and marketing programs that are provided to its customers. The DuraMAX brand, which is owned by RelaDyne, is an automotive line of high-quality vehicle maintenance solutions, including full synthetic, high mileage, and synthetic blend motor oils, antifreeze, filters, wiper blades, brake cleaners, power steering fluids, and more. Based on a survey conducted by National Oil & Lube News, DuraMAX has been ranked the number one best-selling motor oil blends brand since 2018 by Quick Lube Owners. "It is with great pleasure that we announce DuraMAX and Drydene oils will be featured in all Take 5 Oil Change locations within the United States. This relationship further confirms RelaDyne's ongoing strategy of the consolidation of the lubricant marketing channel. The capabilities, responsiveness, and national footprint of RelaDyne allows for flexibility to meet our customers' everchanging requirements and ultimately drive profitability for our customers," said Larry Stoddard, President and CEO. "This exciting opportunity to partner with the Take 5 Oil Change team to deliver and install both DuraMAX and Drydene products across the U.S. demonstrates that two growth-driven teams working together can and will deliver an exceptional customer experience." Story continues "The entire team at RelaDyne is ecstatic for the conversion of U.S. Take 5 Oil Change locations to DuraMAX oil," said Dan Oehler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for RelaDyne. "Bringing the power of DuraMAX oil, marketing programs, and executional capabilities, including the DuraMAX DOLLAR$ and Warranty Programs, provide customer retention and enhanced profitability to our business customers." About RelaDyne RelaDyne, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is the nation's largest lubricant distributor in fuel, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), and industrial reliability services for industrial, commercial, and automotive businesses in the United States. RelaDyne was formed in 2010 by the combination of four well-established industry-leading companies and has since grown to more than 85 locations by strategically acquiring other industry leaders in the lubricant, fuel distribution, and industrial service segments. For more information, visit www.RelaDyne.com. Contact Information: Dan Oehler EVP | Sales and Marketing media@reladyne.com 513-489-6000 Related Images Image 1 This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. Attachment The company aims to expand its presence across the country in the next five years. BELLA VISTA, NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Based out of Bella Vista, New South Wales, the CEO's future goals include spreading the name and offices throughout Australia. "I see Win Square Finance present in every major city of Australia in the next five years," said Ruban Sohana about his company's next five-year plan. Win Square Finance, Monday, October 3, 2022, Press release picture Ruban Sohana was one of the four finalists of the Finsure Best Commercial Newcomer Award for 2022. His ability to derive the best solutions for his clients has helped him drive Win Square Finance to success immediately after its establishment. The venture primarily caters to HNWIs who cannot acquire loans due to lending policies, client income, and the nature of employment. Along with home loans the demand for commercial loan is rising, with millennials and Gen Z diving into the housing and investment market. However, a good income isn't enough to secure a loan anymore. Many high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are now finding out they do not match the bank's criteria. In 2011, Ruban was one of them, a successful retail business owner who found himself passed multiple times for a commercial investment loan from three of the Big 4 Banks. He decided to look through the loan criteria himself instead of being told why "it wasn't possible" by other mortgage brokers and bankers. He systematically met the loan criteria by himself, and when he returned to the banks, he secured his loan on the spot. The word spread in his local community, and people called him every day of the week to get advice on their loan applications. Even the bankers started to take notice of Ruban, because he was referring clients with strong loan applications. When 2018 came around, Ruban decided to sell his retail business. During the sale process, his banker turned around and said very casually "Ruban, you should start doing mortgage broking full time. You're good at it!" Story continues Win Square Finance has helped many clients get the right finance. Ruban Sohana and his team of experts systematically build up a client's loan application, so banks are happy to approve it at first glance. Even when the banks refuse to consider an applicant's RSU and ESS bonus for borrowing, Sohona and team know how to reposition the application to get a positive decision on the next round. The Win Square Finance CEO wants the world to know that there is always a solution for borrowers to get the finance they need - you just need an expert's eye and a passion for problem-solving. Both of which, Sohona has in spades. Every client is unique, and there's rarely a standard approach. Yet, there's always a solution if you have the right broker willing to take the time and care to find it. About Win Square Finance: Win Square Finance helps clients obtain home loans, commercial property loans, business and franchise loans, SMSF loans, asset and equipment finance, etc. Founded by Ruban Sohana, the company also partners with accountants, property investment strategists, buyers' agents, and real estate agents to get their clients the right financial and banking aid. Media Contact: Company Name: Win Square Finance Contact Person: Ruban Sohana Email: ruban@winsqfin.com.au Website: https://www.winsqfin.com.au/ SOURCE: Win Square Finance View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/718487/Ruban-Sohana-helps-HNWI-Aussies-borrow-more-even-after-the-banks-say-no Safe Orthopaedics Distribution agreement in USA between Wenzel Spine and Safe Orthopaedics Manufacturing agreement between Wenzel Spine and Safe Medical Eragny-sur-Oise, France, October 3rd, 2022, 17h45 CET Safe (FR0013467123 ALSAF), a company specializing in the design, manufacturing, and marketing of single-use technologies for spinal surgeries, announces the signature of a distribution agreement of Safe Orthopaedics products in the USA by Wenzel Spine and a manufacturing agreement between Wenzel Spine and Safe Medical. The companies have also initiated strategic discussions to maximize business synergies. Wenzel Spine is a medical technology and services company focused on providing minimally invasive surgical and diagnostic solutions for the treatment of spinal disorders such as the S-LIF Procedure using VariLift-LX and S-ACDF using VariLift-C. These stand-alone lumbar and cervical fusion procedures are true MIS alternatives to a more traditional approach to spine fusion, which necessitate the use of supplemental fixation such as rods, screws, or plates. VariLift-LX is the only FDA-cleared posterior stand-alone lumbar interbody fusion device on the market that requires significantly less hardware to promote fusion while prioritizing healthy anatomy preservation. For the right patient, these procedures may be an ideal solution for hospital outpatient and Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASCs) environments. Wenzel Spines solutions have been used by over 300 surgeons in 39 states across the USA. With access to over 2,000 hospitals and ASCs and supported by a strong distribution network, Wenzel Spine has seen outpatient revenue climb 196% post-COVID. With a shared vision to bring more unique treatment options to surgeons and their patients, Wenzel Spine and Safe Orthopaedics will immediately begin distributing the Safe Orthopaedics ready-to-use technologies (MIS pedicle screws and vertebral augmentation technologies) and Wenzel Spine implants throughout the USA. Story continues In parallel, Safe Medical will support the design of ready-to-use technologies and manufacturing of Wenzel Spine products. The products will be produced in the CIPI* in Fleurieux-sur-lArbresle offering machining, finishing, and packaging industrial services. Wenzel Spine and Safe Group have also initiated strategic discussions to maximize business synergies: Wenzel Spines diagnostic and surgical planning technology solutions allow for the combined evaluation of Safe Groups SORA technology which offers surgery online assistance, assisted selection of implants and instruments, and automatic replenishment. The combination of these technologies provides the opportunity to offer a next-practice surgical platform to surgeons, distributors, and facilities. Wenzel Spine technologies are currently only available in the USA. Optimizing the cost of technologies with Safe Medical and developing ready-to-use instrument sets for Wenzel Spines implants will help to initiate distribution throughout Europe. We are excited about the opportunity to partner with Safe Group on multiple fronts as we look to expand Wenzel Spines reach within the ASC, outpatient, and acute care markets in the USA and abroad. said William Wilson, Co-Founder and CEO of Wenzel Spine. As we continue to accelerate our growth, especially in the outpatient fusion market, Safes ready-to-use solutions and applications with Wenzels products will increase the value of our technology and service offerings to our clients and most importantly their patients. Pierre Dumouchel, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO of Safe Group, adds Im pleased to announce our new partnership with Wenzel Spine. The alignment of our vision and technologies will allow our US sales teams to offer unique solutions to our clients for better treatment of their patients, especially in the rapidly growing ambulatory or outpatient environment. Starting with distribution and manufacturing agreements, we expect to accelerate our short-term sales growth and financial performance. We will continue to analyze mid-term options to maximize synergies between Wenzel and Safe. Financial Agenda: Q4 sales and S1 financial results on Wednesday October 5th. About Wenzel Spine, Inc. Wenzel Spine, Inc. is a medical technology and services company focused on providing minimally invasive solutions for the treatment of spinal disorders. Headquartered in Austin, TX, Wenzel Spine is focused on delivering surgical solutions that improve the overall quality of spine care by simplifying procedures and reducing recovery time. Wenzel Spine seeks to improve patient quality of life by designing and producing devices of the highest quality to support our surgeon clients in the care and treatment of their patients. For more information about the company and products, visit www.wenzelspine.com. About Safe Group Safe Group is a French medical technology group that brings together Safe Orthopaedics, a pioneer in ready-to-use technologies for spine pathologies, and Safe Medical (formerly LCI Medical), a medical device subcontractor for orthopaedic surgery. The group employs approximately 150 people. Safe Orthopaedics develops and manufactures kits combining sterile implants and single-use instruments, available at any time to the surgeon. These technologies are part of a minimally invasive approach aimed at reducing the risks of contamination and infection, in the interest of the patient and with a positive impact on hospitalization times and costs. Protected by 18 patent families, SteriSpineTM kits are CE marked and FDA approved. Safe Orthopaedics is headquartered in the Paris region (95610 Eragny-sur-Oise) and has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, and the Lyon region (Fleurieux-sur-l'Arbresle). For more information: http://www.safeorthopaedics.com/ Safe Medical produces implantable medical devices and ready-to-use instruments. It has an innovation center and two production sites in France (Fleurieux-sur-l'Arbresle, 69210) and in Tunisia, offering numerous industrial services: design, industrialization, machining, finishing and sterile packaging. Supported by the French stimulus plan in 2020, the company invests in additive printing and will be operational in 2022 on this new technology. For more information: http://www.safemedical.fr/ Contacts Wenzel Spine William Wilson Chief Executive Officer 512-469-6066 info@wenzelspine.com Safe Group Francois-Henri Reynaud Chief Financial and Administrative Officer Tel. : +33 (0)1 34 21 50 00 investors@safeorthopaedics.com Attachment TAIPEI, Oct. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to the challenges faced by the globe on the implementation of the United Nations' (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Taiwan, the United States, Japan, and Australia jointly held the "Global Cooperation and Training Framework" (GCTF) international seminar in New York during the opening of the 77th UN General Assembly. This year, Startup Island TAIWAN (SIT) was invited to share on the topic of "Finding Transformative Solutions through Innovative Partnership Mechanisms". SIT is the national startup brand of Taiwan. As the gateway to Taiwan's startup ecosystem, SIT is a key player in bridging Taiwan's startups and ecosystem to the rest of the world. Since its launch, with the support of the National Development Council (NDC) and along with the Taiwan startup community, it has already nominated potential startups across various industries as "NEXT BIG" - Taiwan's trailblazers of innovation, held "Together, Go Big" - the biggest Japan-Taiwan Startup Summit in Japan, leading Taiwan's overall startup atmosphere to the higher. Allen John Ku, Vice President of SIT, Speaking at this years GCTF Seminar In his speech, Allen John Ku, Vice President of Startup Island TAIWAN, touched on eight of the 17 SDGs of the UN: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Climate Action, Clear Water and Sanitation, Quality Education, Partnerships for the Goals, No poverty, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Good Health and Well-being. He shared how Taiwan's industries, both government and corporate sectors alike, contribute to implementing these SDGs, the overall startup ecosystem in Taiwan, and SIT's role in bringing all the stakeholders together for connections with the global community. Some examples mentioned in Taiwan's take on implementing SDGs include Taiwan marking 2050 as the year to become a net-zero emitter nation, TSMC's launch of water conservation guidelines in the production of semiconductor chips, and Taiwan Sugar Corporation's collaboration with Honduras to introduce agri-tech solutions while enhancing the quality of life for Honduras' coffee farmers. SIT will continue to connect with and demonstrate to the world how Taiwan's innovative capabilities and technologies can make an unprecedented impact. Taiwan will continue to play a vital role in curating SDGs solutions with its foreign partners and friends, making the world a better place. SOURCE Startup Island TAIWAN NEW YORK and TOKYO, Oct. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. ("Sumitovant"), in conjunction with parent company Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. ("Sumitomo Pharma"), announced today it has submitted a non-binding proposal (the "Proposal") to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the "Audit Committee") of Myovant Sciences Ltd. ("Myovant") offering to acquire all outstanding shares of Myovant not already owned by Sumitovant for $22.75 per share in cash. The proposed transaction, if completed, would result in Myovant being delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. Logo The proposed acquisition consideration represents an equity value for Myovant of $2.4 billion and an enterprise value of $2.5 billion. The proposed per share consideration represents a premium of approximately 27% to Myovant's closing share price on September 30, 2022, and a premium of approximately 31% to the 60-day volume weighted average price of Myovant's shares through September 30, 2022. The Proposal is a natural step in the well-established relationship between Sumitovant and Myovant, and represents an unprecedented opportunity to combine expertise, platforms, and resources to deliver innovative therapies addressing unmet patient needs in women's health and prostate cancer. Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma have been impressed with the culture and significant accomplishments of Myovant's employees. If a transaction is completed, we will continue to provide support and resources to Myovant to enable achievement of its mission to redefine care for the patients they so passionately serve. Since the investment in Myovant in December 2019, both Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma have enjoyed a collaborative and successful relationship with Myovant that has facilitated the continued development and commercialization of Orgovyx and Myfembree in prostate cancer and women's health in and outside of the U.S. Further, Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma believe that the Proposal is financially compelling and will create significant and immediate value for Myovant's shareholders. Story continues The Proposal provides that the proposed transaction will be subject to the approval of the shareholders of Myovant holding a majority of the shares not owned by Sumitovant. In addition, Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma informed the Audit Committee in the Proposal that, in Sumitovant's capacity as a majority shareholder in Myovant, Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma are interested only in acquiring the shares of Myovant not already owned by Sumitovant and that in such capacity, Sumitovant has no interest in selling any of the Myovant shares it owns, nor would Sumitovant support any alternative sale, merger, or similar transaction involving Myovant. The Proposal does not create any binding legal obligation between Sumitovant or Sumitomo Pharma and Myovant. Neither Sumitovant, Sumitomo Pharma nor Myovant will have any obligation or liability to the other with respect to a transaction unless and until definitive transaction documents are executed and delivered by the parties. Advisors J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as financial advisor and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is serving as legal counsel to Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma. About Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. Sumitovant is a technology-driven biopharmaceutical company accelerating development and commercialization of new potential therapies for patients with rare conditions and other diseases. Through our proprietary computing and data platforms, scientific expertise and diverse company portfolio, Sumitovant has supported development of multiple FDA-approved products and a robust pipeline of early- through late-stage investigational assets addressing unmet patient needs in pediatrics, urology, oncology, women's health, specialty respiratory and infectious diseases. Sumitovant is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Pharma. Please visit our website www.sumitovant.com for more information on Sumitovant and our portfolio. About Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. Sumitomo Pharma is among the top-ten listed pharmaceutical companies in Japan, operating globally in major pharmaceutical markets, including Japan, the U.S., China, and other Asian countries with about 7,000 employees worldwide. Sumitomo Pharma defines its corporate mission as "To broadly contribute to society through value creation based on innovative research and development activities for the betterment of healthcare and fuller lives of people worldwide." Additional information about Sumitomo Pharma is available through its corporate website at https://www.sumitomo-pharma.com. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains statements regarding the proposed transaction that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws and Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma may make related oral, forward-looking statements on or following the date hereof. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are subject to a variety of inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results projected. Many of these risks and uncertainties cannot be controlled by Sumitovant and Sumitomo Pharma and include the possibility that discussions with the Audit Committee may not be successful and the possibility that the proposed transaction may not be entered into or completed on the terms described in this press release or at all, including as a result of changes in the business or prospects of Myovant. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Neither Sumitovant nor Sumitomo Pharma assumes any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements except as required by law. No information contained on any website referenced in this press release is incorporated by reference herein. Additional Information and Where to Find It AN AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION DESCRIBED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE HAS NOT YET BEEN EXECUTED, AND THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT AN OFFER TO PURCHASE OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO SELL ANY SECURITIES. ANY SOLICITATION OR OFFER WILL ONLY BE MADE THROUGH MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. IF AN AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF A PROPOSED TRANSACTION IS EXECUTED, EACH STOCKHOLDER OF MYOVANT SHOULD READ THESE MATERIALS IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. ONCE A FILING IS MADE, SHAREHOLDERS OF MYOVANT CAN OBTAIN SUCH MATERIALS (WHEN AVAILABLE) FREE OF CHARGE AT THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION'S WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.SEC.GOV. Media / IR Contacts: Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. Maya Frutiger VP, Head of Corporate Communications media@sumitovant.com Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. Corporate Communications TEL: +81-6-6203-1407 (Osaka); +81-3-5205-3725 (Tokyo) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sumitovant-biopharma-and-sumitomo-pharma-announce-offer-to-acquire-outstanding-shares-of-myovant-sciences-301638470.html SOURCE Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd. (Removes Ribera Del Duero Knutsen, LNG Enterprise, Al Samriya, BW Pavilionaranthera, Arctic Discoverer, Al Sheehaniya, Cool Discoverer and LNG Rosenrot after they leave ports; changes expected arrival date for Gaslog Windsor and Energy Glory; Adds Tessala and Traiano Knutsen, Shows Pearl LNG is docked; Removes Wilpride after it changes destination) Oct 3 (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). Floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) terminals are added to the table when they become fully operational. As of Sept. 30 2022 this includes the Eemshaven terminal in the Netherlands. For the Reuters LNG guide, click here: LNG TANKER CAPACITY in EXPECTED ARRIVAL FROM PORT cubic metres BRITAIN Golar Glacier 162,000 Oct. 3 United States South Hook Methane Mickie Harper 167,000 Oct. 7 United States Dragon Tessala Oct. 8 Algeria Isle 172,000 of Grain Gaslog Windsor 176,000 Oct. 9 United States Isle of Grain Maran Gas Ithaca 170,000 Oct. 12 United States Milford Haven Traiano Oct 14 United Knutsen 180,000 States Milford Haven Cool Runner 158,000 Oct. 17 United States South Hook Sonangol Etosha 158,000 Oct. 20 Angola Isle Of Grain BELGIUM Al Ruwais 210,000 Oct. 5 Qatar Zeebrugge Transgas Power 174,000 Oct. 7 United States Zeebrugge Lusail 143,000 Oct. 10 Qatar Zeebrugge NETHERLANDS Pearl LNG 156,000 Sept. 30 (A) United States Eemshaven Energy Glory 165,000 Oct. 3 United States Gate Maran Gas Delphi 156,000 Oct. 8 United States Gate Gaslog Gladstone 170,000 Oct. 9 Trinidad and Tobago Eemshaven Santander Knutsen 170,000 Oct. 10 United States Eemshaven Maran Gas Roxana 170,000 Oct. 14 United States Eemshaven Sources: Ports, AIS Live ship tracking, Refinitiv Eikon data. (^) Partial unload (*) Arrival date estimated based on flows data (Reporting by Marwa Rashad) Bidaya Home Finance, a leading Saudi company in the field of digital real estate financing, has secured a new 15-year long-term structured facility with the Saudi National Bank (SNB). The new financing will significantly strengthen the companys balance sheet, lower financing costs, and increase flexibility allowing Bidaya to execute on its long-term strategy and build upon its market-leading position in the coming years, said a statement from the company. It will be for a 15-year term mainly aimed at financing long-term mortgages originated by Bidaya, it stated. Acting CEO Engineer Faisal Al Nasser said: "We are very pleased to reach this important milestone being the first in the industry to achieve long-term facility to match our long-term assets (mortgages). This financing is a substantial recognition of both Bidayas position in the industry, as well as our strong track record." Being a major player in Saudi Arabia, Bidaya's main objectives is to enable customers to become homeowners by offering simple financing solutions via our innovative digital platform. This makes it a key contributor to the achievement of Saudi Vision 2030, he added.-TradeArabia News Service Timber Pharmaceuticals BASKING RIDGE, NJ, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Timber or the Company) (NYSE American: TMBR), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of treatments for rare and orphan dermatologic diseases, today announced that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with several institutional accredited investors to sell in a registered direct offering (i) 13,000,000 shares of the Companys common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the Common Stock), and (ii) Series 1 common warrants (the Series 1 Warrants) to purchase up to an aggregate of 13,000,000 shares of Common Stock at a purchase price of $0.10 per share and associated warrant. The Series 1 Warrants will be immediately exercisable at an exercise price of $0.10 per share and will expire two and one-half years following the initial exercise date. In a concurrent private placement, the Company has also agreed to issue to the investors: (i) Series 2 warrants (the Series 2 Warrants) to purchase up to an aggregate of 13,000,000 shares of Common Stock, and (ii) 13,000 shares of Series B Mirroring Preferred Stock (the Series B Preferred Stock). Each share of Series B Preferred Stock will have a stated value of $0.001 per share. The Series 2 Warrants will become exercisable six (6) months following the date of issuance at an exercise price of $0.12 per share and will expire two and one-half years following the initial exercise date. H.C. Wainwright & Co. is acting as the exclusive placement agent for the offerings. The Company expects to call a special meeting of stockholders for the approval of a proposal to effect a reverse split of the Common Stock (the Proposal). The Series B Preferred Stock has voting rights on the Proposal equal to 10,000,000 votes per share of Series B Preferred Stock. The voting rights of the Series B Preferred Stock were established in order to maintain the Companys NYSE American listing by raising the average minimum bid price of the Common Stock to over $0.20 for 30 consecutive trading days. Story continues The closing of the offerings is expected to occur on or about October 3, 2022, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Additional information regarding the securities described above and the terms of the offerings will be included in a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC or the Commission). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offerings for working capital and general corporate purposes. The Common Stock and Series 1 Warrants and shares of Common Stock underlying the Series 1 Warrants described above are being offered pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-3 (333-255743), which was declared effective by the Commission on May 11, 2021. The registered direct offering is being made only by means of a prospectus supplement and a prospectus that form a part of the registration statement. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the securities being offered in the registered direct offering will be filed with the SEC. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov or by contacting H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC at 430 Park Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10022, by phone at (212) 856-5711 or e-mail at placements@hcwco.com. The Preferred Stock and Series 2 Warrants sold in the private placement transaction described above are being issued in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Act), and Regulation D promulgated thereunder and, along with the shares of common stock underlying such Series 2 Warrants issued in the private placement, have not been registered under the Act, or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the Preferred Stock, Series 2 Warrants and shares of Common Stock underlying the Series 2 Warrants issued in the private placement may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Act and such applicable state securities laws. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. About Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of treatments for rare and orphan dermatologic diseases. The Company's investigational therapies have proven mechanisms-of-action backed by decades of clinical experience and well-established CMC (chemistry, manufacturing and control) and safety profiles. The Company is initially focused on developing non-systemic treatments for rare dermatologic diseases including congenital ichthyosis (CI) and other sclerotic skin diseases. For more information, visit www.timberpharma.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements pertaining to Timbers expectations regarding the Companys ability to regain compliance with the NYSE Americans continued listing standards, future financial and/or operating results, the consummation of the offerings of Timbers securities described above and the use of net proceeds therefrom, potential for our products and future revenues or growth in this press release constitute forward-looking statements. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking expressions, including, but not limited to, "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "estimate," "potential, "predict," "project," "should," "would" and similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. These statements relate to future events or our financial performance and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including, among other things, the completion of the offerings, the satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the offerings and the intended use of proceeds from the offerings, and other factors, such as market and other conditions, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include those set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 as well as other documents filed by the Company from time to time thereafter with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. For more information, contact: Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. John Koconis Chairman and Chief Executive Officer jkoconis@timberpharma.com Investor Relations: Stephanie Prince PCG Advisory (646) 863-6341 sprince@pcgadvisory.com Media Relations: Adam Daley Berry & Company Public Relations (212) 253-8881 adaley@berrypr.com Torex Gold Resources Inc. MIA Integral will allow for integrated operations at both ELG and Media Luna (All amounts expressed in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated) TORONTO, Oct. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Torex Gold Resources Inc. (the Company or Torex) (TSX: TXG) announces the Company has received approval from Mexicos Secretariat of Environmental and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) on the key, culminating environmental permit for the Media Luna Project. The approval (MIA Integral) allows for operations to begin at Media Luna and builds on the receipt of the MIA Modification received last year, which allowed for the execution of development activities on the south side of the Balsas River. The Company has also received approval to increase the power draw at site to 45 megawatts (MW). Jody Kuzenko, President & CEO of Torex, stated: Receipt of the MIA Integral represents another key milestone in the de-risking of the Media Luna Project, and further demonstrates the ongoing support of local communities and the endorsement of State and Federal Governments of both the social and environmental facets of this project. The MIA Integral follows on the MIA Modification and Change of Land Use permits received over the last two years and integrates our environmental requirements on both sides of the Balsas River under a single authorization. With the MIA Integral in hand, the Company now has all the environmental approvals required to develop and operate Media Luna. Discussions about future in-pit tailings deposition and expanding the exploration boundaries are ongoing. The Company also recently received approval to increase the power draw at Morelos to 45 MW to accommodate activities at both ELG and Media Luna. Discussions with the utility authorities to further increase the power draw to 65 MW, required to sustainably deliver full production at Media Luna, are in process as well. ABOUT TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC. Torex is an intermediate gold producer based in Canada, engaged in the exploration, development, and operation of its 100% owned Morelos Property, an area of 29,000 hectares in the highly prospective Guerrero Gold Belt located 180 kilometres southwest of Mexico City. The Companys principal asset is the Morelos Complex, which includes the El Limon Guajes (ELG) Mining Complex, the Media Luna Project, the processing plant and related infrastructure. Commercial production from the Morelos Complex commenced on April 1, 2016 and an updated Technical Report for the Morelos Complex was released in March 2022. Torexs key strategic objectives are to extend and optimize production from the ELG Mining Complex, de-risk and advance Media Luna to commercial production, build on ESG excellence, and to grow through ongoing exploration across the entire Morelos Property. Story continues For further information, please contact: TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC. Jody Kuzenko Dan Rollins President and CEO Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations Direct: (647) 725-9982 Direct: (647) 260-1503 jody.kuzenko@torexgold.com dan.rollins@torexgold.com CAUTIONARY NOTE Forward Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information also includes, but is not limited to Torexs key strategic objectives to extend and optimize production from the ELG Mining Complex, de-risk and advance Media Luna to commercial production, build on ESG excellence, and to grow through ongoing exploration across the entire Morelos Property. Generally, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as forecast, plans, expects, strategic or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results will, may, could, or would occur. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties regarding the Companys ability to satisfy the conditions in the MIA Integral and the risks and uncertainties identified in the technical report (the Technical Report) released on March 31, 2022, entitled NI 43-101 Technical Report ELG Mine Complex Life of Mine Plan and Media Luna Feasibility Study, which has an effective date of March 16, 2022, and the Companys annual information form and managements discussion and analysis or other unknown but potentially significant impacts. Forward-looking information and statements are based on the assumptions discussed in the Technical Report and such other reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. NEW YORK, October 03, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wafra Inc. ("Wafra"), a global alternative investment manager, announced today that funds managed by Wafra have acquired a strategic minority ownership interest in Oak Hill Capital Partners ("Oak Hill" or "OHCP"), a middle-market private equity buyout firm. OHCP utilizes a theme-based investing strategy, focused on services, industrials, consumer and media & communications sectors. Wafra purchased the stake in OHCP from an affiliate of Jefferies Financial Group Inc. The partnership with OHCP is a continuation of Wafras strategy of acquiring minority interests in established alternative asset management firms by utilizing a unique partnership-based approach. Control of OHCPs investment processes, management and day-to-day operations will not be affected by this transaction. "We are pleased to partner with Oak Hill, a distinguished group of investors whose current management team has accelerated the evolution of OHCP to a world class private equity firm. We look forward to embarking on this new chapter with them, working together to execute strategic initiatives and positioning the firm for continued growth. Their thematic approach is differentiated in the market and this thoughtful approach is reflected in all aspects of their business." said Gustavo Cardenas, a Managing Director at Wafra. Oak Hill is led by Managing Partners Tyler Wolfram, Brian Cherry and Steve Puccinelli who commented, "Partnership is a core tenet underlying our firm, and in Wafra we found an aligned partner with a demonstrated ability to collaborate with investment firms such as ours to accelerate our vision for Oak Hill, our investors and our stakeholders. We are excited to enter this next phase of OHCPs growth with the support of Wafra, a leader and long term participant in strategic partnerships. Wafras investment is a strong endorsement of the systematic investment approach and partnership philosophy that OHCP has employed for over 35 years. We look forward to a long and rewarding partnership with the Wafra team." This transaction comes nearly a year after Wafra sold its participation in Oak Hill Advisors "OHA", a leading alternative credit manager, to T. Rowe Price. OHA, whose heritage also includes affiliation with the family office of Robert M. Bass, is unaffiliated with OHCP, and remains a standalone business within T. Rowe Price. Oak Hill was advised by Evercore as financial advisor and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP as legal counsel. Wafra was advised by Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP as legal counsel. About Wafra Wafra is a global alternative asset manager with approximately $33 billion of assets under management. Funds advised by Wafra have formed 25 strategic partnerships with both growth-stage and established alternative asset managers. By providing flexible and accretive capital solutions and focusing on the long term, Wafra aligns with and invests in high-quality investment management teams. Headquartered in New York, Wafra and its affiliates have additional offices in London, Kuwait and Bermuda. For more information, please visit www.wafra.com. About Oak Hill Capital Partners Oak Hill is a longstanding private equity firm focused on the North America middle-market. Oak Hill applies a specialized, theme-based approach to investing in the following dedicated industry sectors: Media & Communications, Industrials, Services, and Consumer. The Firm implements a highly systematic approach to theme development, proactive origination, and value creation in partnership with management to build franchises of lasting value. Since 1986, Oak Hill and its predecessors have raised approximately $20 billion of initial capital commitments and co-investments, invested in approximately 100 companies, and completed more than 300 add-on acquisitions representing an aggregate enterprise value at acquisition of over $60 billion. For more information, please visit www.oakhill.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221003005756/en/ Contacts Media Contacts Katrina Allen Edelman +1 (917) 640-2753 Katrina.Allen@edelman.com Significant Jacksonville-area Infrastructure Project Features Barge-based Construction in a Marine Environment WEST PALM BEACH, FL / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / National planning, geospatial, and engineering design firm WGI, Inc. (WGI) is pleased to announce it is part of and lead designer for the project pursuit team awarded the $600M First Coast Expressway (SR 23) from east of CR 16A Spur to East of CR 209 contract by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) -- commonly known as the Shands Bridge project. The contract for FDOT's District 2, centering on the Jacksonville, Florida region, is a Design-Build contract with WGI leading all design-related services and construction administration tasks for the design team. Simultaneously, teaming partners Johnson Brothers Corporation and American Bridge will manage the overall project and construct the new extension of the First Coast Expressway, including the new Shands Bridge. This project extends SR 23 (the First Coast Expressway), a limited-access toll facility, from east of CR 16A Spur to east of CR 209 within St. Johns and Clay Counties. It constructs a new roadway with a four-lane divided roadway and new partial cloverleaf interchange at CR 16A Spur. The project's centerpiece is a new four-lane bridge over the St. Johns River with a bicycle/pedestrian path and scenic overlooks, replacing the old Shands Bridge. In awarding this Design-Build contract, FDOT selected the most-qualified engineering and construction team, evaluating a combination of technical excellence and price for this uniquely challenging construction process. In its selection, FDOT determined that the WGI, Johnson Brothers Corporation, and American Bridge team are best suited to take on the project. The team received the highest technical score supported by innovative cost and time savings proposed during the procurement process. Mike Madison, PE, WGI's Alterative Delivery Manager, led the firm's pursuit -- sharing his excitement. "The combined experience of our team and our innovative, environmentally sustainable project approach were differentiating factors in being selected for the Shands Bridge project," he said. "Our pursuit team is thrilled with the project award, and we look forward to delivering a successful project. Our innovation eliminated over 1,000 in-water piles, saving tens of millions of dollars and reducing the project's construction duration." Story continues Construction of the new Shands Bridge will utilize barges for staging construction materials and a host of construction activities in the St. Johns River - Florida's longest river. Enhanced environmental-protection measures and water-quality monitoring stations will be employed to protect its quality. WGI brings design, monitoring, and engineering experience to safeguard the river's water quality from its recent successfully completed Wekiva Parkway Segment 6 project, which featured construction of a four-lane divided tollway over the Wekiva River, a Federally designated Wild and Scenic River. The project is the largest Design-Build win for WGI. Walter Kloss, PE, Vice President responsible for Transportation Alternative Delivery at WGI, explained, "The Shands Bridge win is a very special win for WGI. For years we've expanded our Design-Build practice, and we are very proud to be impacting our nation's infrastructure. Together with our partners from Johnson Brothers Corporation and American Bridge, we look forward to bringing the new Shands Bridge to fruition for motorists to enjoy for decades to come." ABOUT WGI As a multidisciplinary solutions-providing consulting firm, WGI has 25 offices in eight states, serving an active client base in over 40 states, specializing in the following disciplines: geospatial and land surveying, subsurface utility engineering, land development/municipal engineering, mobility planning, traffic and transportation engineering, parking solutions, restoration and structural engineering, landscape architecture, environmental sciences and water resources, architecture, land planning, and MEP engineering. In 2022, ENR ranked WGI #167 - up eight places -- on its list of the Top 500 Design Firms in the United States. ENR Magazine also named WGI its 2021 Design Firm of the Year in the southeast United States. For more information, please visit www.wginc.com. WGI Company Contacts: Eliza Partington/Director, Alternative Delivery Eliza.Partington@WGIn.com 904.470.4503 Will Schnier /Chief Marketing Officer Will.Schnier@wginc.com 512.669.5560 Media Contact: Kelly Owens Alchemy Communications Group ko@alchemycommgroup.com 561.222.4958 (mobile) 561.935.9953 x101 (office) SOURCE: WGI Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/718483/WGI-Inc-is-the-Lead-Designer-for-the-Shands-Bridge-Design-Build-Contract-Awarded-by-the-Florida-Department-of-Transportation VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 3, 2022 / Zimtu Capital Corp. is pleased to announce that the Company is renewing the Zimtu European road trip this coming fall and would like to invite European investors to meet the Zimtu Capital team and it's attending companies at our conference events in Geneva, Zurich, Frankfurt & Munich. This year's schedule begins with the first investor event in Geneva, Switzerland on November 1st 2022, followed by the next investor event on November 2nd in Zurich. The next investor event is taking place in Frankfurt on November 3rd and our final stop is at the 2022 Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse (International Precious Metals & Commodities Show) in Munich, Germany. The Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse has been held in Munich since 2005, and features renowned speakers from all over the globe, exhibitors focused on precious metals & commodities, and the opportunity to expand your network and meet like-minded people involved in various industries. To learn more and RSVP to any of the events, please visit: https://event.zimtu.com/. "Between 2011 and 2016 Zimtu Capital hosted an annual bus-trip to Europe, with stops scheduled in Germany and Switzerland," enthused Dave Hodge, President of Zimtu Capital Corp. "The European road trip featured investor meetings, scheduled company presentations to retail investors, family offices and other institutional representatives, and provided networking and other business opportunities for participants at each stop, Geneva and Zurich in Switzerland, and Frankfurt and Munich in Germany. The stop in Munich will overlap with the 2022 in-person Internationale Edelmetall & Rohstoffmesse, scheduled for November 4th and 5th. If you are interested in building awareness for your company in Europe, the Zimtu road trip is a must-attend!" Zimtu Capital Corp., Friday, September 30, 2022, Press release picture If you are interested in participating in the 2022 Zimtu European road trip, as either a company, broker or dealmaker, please call Zimtu Capital at 1 (604) 681 1568. Story continues About Zimtu Capital Corp. Zimtu Capital Corp. is a public investment issuer that aspires to achieve long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders. Zimtu Capital companies may operate in the fields of mineral exploration, mining, technology, life sciences or investment. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZC" and Frankfurt under symbol "ZCT1". For more information, please visit www.zimtu.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors ZIMTU CAPITAL CORP. "David Hodge" David Hodge President & Director Phone: 604.681.1568 NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE 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 NEWS RELEASE. SOURCE: Zimtu Capital Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/718394/Zimtu-Capital-Announces-2022-European-Road-Trip-in-Geneva-Zurich-Frankfurt-Munich The King George County School Board received 17 completed applications for the position of division superintendent, the Virginia School Board Association announced last week. The VSBA is assisting the School Board with the search to replace longtime superintendent Robert Benson, who retired this summer. Of the 17 applicants, eight have experience as current or former superintendents or deputy superintendents, seven as central office administrators and one as a principal or building-level administrator. Eleven applicants are from Virginia. Out-of-state applications came from Maryland, Georgia, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Connecticut. The School Board did not release information about how many of the candidates will be interviewed, but is expected to announce the finalist in November or December, school division spokesperson Amanda Higgins said. The new superintendent is expected to start work Jan. 1. According to the job announcement, which was posted this summer, the School Board required candidates to have a minimum of five years of experiencing teaching in grades K12 and experience as a principal. An earned doctorate and experience as a superintendent, assistant superintendent, or central office administrator was preferred. The board asked for the candidate to have expertise in curriculum and instruction, budget and finance, strategic planning, development, and maintenance of a comprehensive crisis management plan, recruiting and staff retention. Fabiana Parker, a teacher of English for speakers of other languages at Thornburg Middle School in Spotsylvania County, is Virginias 2023 Teacher of the Year. Gov. Glenn Youngkin made the announcement Thursday evening, during a ceremony that also included remarks by Aimee Guidera, secretary of education; Dan Gecker, president of the state Board of Education; Jillian Balow, superintendent of public instruction; and Daphne Fulson, the 2022 Virginia Teacher of the Year. Parker was surprised last month by Spotsylvania school administrators and colleagues with the news that she had been selected as one of eight regional teachers of the year. Fulson, along with a panel composed of representatives from professional and educational associations and the business community, selected Parker as the 2023 Teacher of the Year following interviews with the eight regional winners Thursday morning. Parker grew up in Brazil. When she was about 10, she taught her grandmother how to read and write her name after realizing the woman was illiterate. I believe everyone deserves an education, no matter their background, Parker said last month. She went on to study modern foreign language and education at Kings College London and earned a masters degree in education, curriculum and instruction at Boise State University. She started teaching at Thornburg Middle School last year. She is our bright light, school principal Judith Hamlett said last month. At Thursdays ceremony, Parker thanked Hamlett, her fellow teachers and especially my students. I do this for them, she said. I was an ESL student myself and I am so happy that I get to represent the students, teachers and diversity of the commonwealth. Youngkin said Parker has helped hundreds of students find a path to success by equipping them with the English skills necessary to prosper academically and in life. Teachers play a critical role in the success of every learner and child in Virginia and Fabiana is the best of the best, he said. Parker is now a candidate for National Teacher of the Year. The winner of the national title will be announced in the spring. APIA, Samoa When and if an island nation fully submerges due to rising seas, what happens to the nationalities of its citizens? This and other related questions are being considered by island nations advocating for changes to international law as climate change threatens their existence. "Climate change induced sea level rise is a defining issue for many Pacific Island states and like most climate change issues, Pacific Island states have been at the forefront of challenging international law to develop in a way which is equitable and just," said Fleur Ramsay, head of litigation and climate lead of the Pasifika Program at the Australia-based Environmental Defenders Office. Ramsay noted the shortcomings in the development of international law. For example, under international law, there are discussions of nomadic tribes making claims over lands they have historically passed over. However, rights over historical ocean passages have not yet been explored for citizens of island nations. "If you ask our people to move, there is no way we would voluntarily leave," said Eseta Vusamu, who is currently working in Samoa but from a village on the island of Ovalau, Fiji. "There are graves there, these are our ancestral lands." Vusamu's village, Tokou, along with many coastal communities in Fiji, were hard hit during Cyclone Winston in 2016, which led to the relocation of over 3,000 villagers from the coastal areas. Tuvalu Prime Minister Kausea Natano said that Pacific Island nations had done very little to contribute to global warming he said less than 0.03% of the world's total emissions but yet could be destroyed by the consequences of a warming planet and rising seas. "In this century, several Pacific Island nations will lose considerable territory to rising seal level with some becoming completely uninhabitable," said Natano. There is already evidence of loss of islands. Between 1947 and 2014, six smaller islands in the Pacific archipelago of the Solomon Islands completely vanished, according to a paper published in Environment Research Letters in 2016. The study identified the complete loss of reef islands and other islands that were experiencing severe shoreline recession, leading to the relocation of some communities. And in its report earlier this year, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the world's top body of climate scientists, noted risks to coastal areas and ecosystems due to submergence and flooding through sea level rise and increased height of waves. The issue of protecting sovereignty is a constant topic of discussion for many Pacific Islands leaders. The maritime and resource entitlements that islands stand to lose in the face of land loss were part of talks during the Pacific Small Island Developing States meetings this week in Apia, Samoa. The meetings came on the heels of last week's U.N. General Assembly meetings, in which Pacific Island leaders pushed for changes that would protect island nations as they lose territory to erosion and rising sea levels. Read more: Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson and attorneys general from five other states sued the Biden administration on Thursday to stop a plan to cancel the student loan debt of millions of Americans. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Missouri, asks for a temporary restraining order to stop the program from moving forward before borrowers can apply for forgiveness beginning next week. It's the second legal challenge to President Joe Biden's proposal to cancel $20,000 in student loan debt for Pell grant recipients, and $10,000 for other individual borrowers who currently make less than $125,000. Peterson's lawsuit was joined by attorneys general in Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and South Carolina. In it, the attorneys general refer to the U.S. Supreme Court decision in West Virginia v. EPA warning federal agencies from asserting power beyond what could reasonably be understood to have been granted by Congress. It also argues the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act, which was cited as the legal foundation for canceling the student loan debt of nearly 45 million Americans, did not apply to the current situation. Congress passed the HEROES Act after the 9/11 attacks to authorize the U.S. Department of Education to grant student loan relief to borrowers during periods of war or national emergencies. The Justice Department, in an August memo, said the law has previously been used by education secretaries for individuals "who suffered economic hardship as a result of a national emergency." "It is inconceivable, when it passed the HEROES Act, that Congress thought it was authorizing anything like the administration's across-the-board debt cancellation, which will result in around half a trillion dollars or more in losses to the federal treasury," the lawsuit states. Peterson and the other attorneys general also pointed to statements made previously by Biden and Speaker Nancy Pelosi indicating they did not believe the president could enact such a program and that it was up to Congress to pass new legislation to wipe away student loan debt. The lawsuit also points to recent statements made by Biden and other members of the administration declaring the pandemic was over, or had "shifted to a new phase" as indicating that COVID no longer represented a national emergency. Several of the states involved in the lawsuit including Nebraska argued canceling student loan debt for millions of Americans could negatively impact their finances. The Nebraska Investment Council, which manages $40 billion in state investments, including retirement systems, educational savings plans, and others, maintains several investments in student loan asset-backed securities. Peterson's lawsuit argues that, if student loan debt was forgiven, Nebraska could see an earlier payout, potentially "ending the interest income flow" those accounts generate over time. According to a document included with the lawsuit, Michael Walden-Newman, the state investment officer, indicated Nebraska had more than $25.4 million invested in at least six different student loan asset-backed accounts. The report also states that BlackRock manages the bulk of that amount ($24.8 million) in a Federal Family Education Loan Program security. The private loans guaranteed by the government are not part of the Biden administration's program. Still, Walden-Newman said BlackRock informed him they expect the debt cancellation will lead to more prepays in student loan asset-backed securities not directly affected by the debt forgiveness. Nebraska's future income tax receipts could also be altered by student loan debt cancellation, Peterson wrote in the lawsuit, although it did not estimate by how much. Discharged student loan debt was previously considered taxable income in Nebraska until the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 pushed pause on that practice until Jan. 1, 2026. Hundreds of thousands of borrowers are expected to have their income-driven repayment loans, which allow borrowers to discharge debt after 20 to 25 years, forgiven between 2026 and 2030, according to a Government Accountability Office estimate, which would once again be taxable income in the state of Nebraska. If those loans are forgiven before 2026, Peterson wrote, the Biden administration's plan "will reduce that tax revenue by decreasing the amount of outstanding student loan debt," particularly in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and South Carolina. Gov. Pete Ricketts, who criticized the plan to cancel student loans after it was announced, said in a statement Thursday afternoon he supported Peterson's lawsuit. "President Biden's student loan forgiveness scheme is fundamentally unfair and would harm the American families forced to pay for it," Ricketts said. "Additionally, the executive branch does not have unilateral authority to impose a sweeping student loan cancellation plan." Canceling up to $20,000 in student loan debt could benefit as many as 232,000 borrowers in Nebraska, the Education Department estimated, including 136,000 borrowers who received Pell grants. In total, roughly 94.5% of the 245,600 Nebraskans who have student loan debt as of March 2022 would be eligible for the Biden administration's program, with 90% of the debt forgiveness going to individuals earning less than $75,000 annually. The La Vista man whose body was found near U.S. 275 south of Fremont had been struck by a vehicle, officials said Friday. Yashua Martinez, 27, of La Vista, was found dead by construction crews south of Morningside Road before 2:30 p.m. Sept. 22. U.S. 275 at Morningside Road was closed for about seven hours as officials investigated. The Dodge County Sheriff's Office, the Fremont Police Department, the Nebraska State Patrol and the Douglas County Crime Lab investigated and determined Martinez had been walking in the area. People who knew Martinez, who formerly lived in Georgia, or who had contact with him in the Fremont area are asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 402-727-2700 or use the P3app to submit information anonymously. RTHK: 'Head of Russian-held Ukrainian nuclear plant freed' The detained chief of Ukraine's Russian-held nuclear power plant has been released, the head of the UN nuclear watchdog said on Monday. "I welcome the release of Ihor Murashov, director general of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant; I have received confirmation that Mr Murashov has returned to his family safely," Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Twitter. Kyiv on Saturday called for the immediate release of Murashov, condemning his "illegal detention". Zaporizhzhia Europe's largest nuclear energy facility has been at the centre of recent tensions after Moscow and Kyiv accused each other of strikes on and near the plant, raising fears of an atomic disaster. Murashov was detained by a "Russian patrol" on Friday at around 4:00 pm local time (1300 GMT) on his way from the plant to the city of Energodar, the head of Ukraine's nuclear agency Energoatom, Petro Kotin, said in a statement. He said Murashov's vehicle was stopped, he was taken out of the car and "with his eyes blindfolded, he was driven in an unknown direction". Ukraine's foreign ministry said in a statement it "condemns in the strongest terms the illegal detention". Murashov "bears the main and exclusive responsibility for the nuclear and radiation safety" of the Zaporizhzhia plant, according to Kotin. The nuclear plant is located in Russian-held territory of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, which Russia on Friday annexed together with three other territories in Ukraine: Donetsk, Lugansk and Kherson. Shelling around the plant has spurred calls from Kyiv and its Western allies to demilitarise areas around nuclear facilities in Ukraine. A monitoring team from the UN visited Zaporizhzhia in early September, and the IAEA has been pushing Kyiv and Moscow to agree to set up a security zone around the plant to seek to avoid any nuclear accidents. Grossi said over the weekend that he was expecting to travel to Kyiv and Moscow this week to discuss this. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2022-10-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The UAE Society of Engineers has set October 14 as the deadline for submitting entries for the debut Excellence and Creative Engineering Awards. With these awards, the Society aims to honour the exceptional work of the pioneers of engineering domain and encourage a culture of innovation. The nominations for the Award were opened on May 16 with a dedicated website https://ecea.ae/. The award which was launched last March aims to reward the exceptional work and results of the pioneers of the engineering domain, in the face of an ever-increasing competitive market. It also aims to encourage a culture of innovation and creativity in all engineering projects and emphasizes the significance of national engineering work in addition to boosting growth, creativity and leadership skills. The awards will be given in two categories - Institution and Individuals. The Institution category targets engineering offices, institutions, companies and departments. It encompasses two awards: The Pioneering Engineering Project which is dedicated to honoring the best outstanding engineering project in any field of engineering, the Corporates Awards which also includes Best Engineering Services or Consultancy Company and the Best Construction Company in addition to the Best Industrial Company / Corporation. Under the "Individuals" category, the top most award is the Leading Personnel Award. It will be given to a leading Emirati figure that supports engineering work in the country, while the Outstanding Engineer Award will be granted to distinguished engineers who have used innovative methods and smart techniques in their projects. The third award within this category is the Future Engineer Award which will be given to young Emirati engineers who have distinguished themselves over their peers in their respective field and contributed to advancing innovation, by designing and implementing pioneering engineering projects that have had a distinct impact and yield. Fourthly, the Outstanding Student Award, will be given to the best outstanding student in an engineering college to encourage and raise the spirit of competition and innovation between students and the new generation of engineers and their ability to provide innovative solutions in the engineering field. According to the Society members, there has been an overwhelming response for the awards with a vast number of nominations from individuals and institutions under various categories. These include governmental and private organizations, as well as students from universities across the nation. Society of Engineers President Engineer Abdulla Yousef Al Ali said: "We are pleased with the significant level of participation in the inaugural cycle of the award which reflects the development of the engineering sector in the UAE." "The Excellence and Creative Engineering Award fits into the UAE Vision 2021, which regards innovation a key pillar to achieve a knowledge-based, diversified and flexible economy led by skilled UAE competencies, and reinforced by the best experiences to ensure the sustainable prosperity of the country that keeps up with the ongoing development in the engineering sector by adopting and putting into practice innovative creative projects and ideas," stated Al Ali. "This award also aligns with the UAE Society of Engineers' ambition to highlight the latest developments and innovative models, support and encourage engineering creativity and innovation, and carry out its strategic plan to meet the sector's future challenges while enhancing the engineering skills and offering engineering consultancy to both public and private sector organizations," he added. The Outstanding Student Award targets university students in engineering faculties of all disciplines in an effort to support excellence and enhance a spirit of competition and innovation among students. "This aims to support their knowledge, broaden their perspectives, encourage them to study and continue research to have graduates with scientific backgrounds who competently cope with the quick advancement of technology worldwide," stated Engineer Al Ali. When Gov. Ron DeSantis referred to a biblical storm surge, he was assessing Hurricane Ians damage and, unknowingly, prophesying whats to come in future years and decades in Florida. Ian displayed many of the characteristics scientists say climate change will bring and already has brought to hurricanes because of warmer ocean temperatures and increased moisture in the atmosphere. The storm intensified with alarming speed, its winds nearly doubling in 24 hours before landing on Floridas west coast as a Category 4. These rapid intensifying hurricanes have accounted for 16 of the 20 hurricanes over the past two seasons in the Atlantic, The Washington Post reported. The storm surge DeSantis referred to is made worse by sea level rise. The frequency of severe storms Category 4 or 5 has been on the rise since 1980, according to a New York Times analysis. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects those powerful hurricanes will account for even more of our storms in the future because of climate change. Studies also suggest a 10% to 15% increase in rainfall related to hurricanes for a 2-degree Celsius global warming scenario. To sum it up: Climate change equals stronger, wetter storms. More people will lose their homes, power grids will be obliterated and more people likely will die the death toll of Hurricane Ian surpassed 80 on Sunday. The states property insurance system will inch closer to a collapse as claims surge. Yet you rarely, if ever, hear DeSantis utter the words climate change. Many Republicans understand the gravity of this issue, but the GOPs rising star looks at it as a leftist agenda item. What Ive found is, people when they start talking about things like global warming, they typically use that as a pretext to do a bunch of left-wing things that they would want to do anyways. Were not doing any left-wing stuff, DeSantis said last December. DeSantis has often said he wants to focus on affordable energy, but his appointees on the states Florida Public Service Commission approved electricity rate hikes last year requested by Florida Power & Light. Some will say that talking about climate change while places such as Sanibel Island and Fort Myers are still assessing Hurricane Ians damage politicizes a disaster. We heard this after Irma and so many other hurricanes, only to see the can kicked down the road. Florida leaders can walk and chew gum at the same time. They can provide immediate assistance while thinking long term. Tragedies of this magnitude call for swift reforms, much like the Florida Legislature made when it passed unprecedented gun control and school-security measures in the aftermath of the deadly Parkland school shooting. ... Rather than debate climate change as a theory and whether its even real state leaders and our congressional delegation must come to terms with the fact were already living through this phenomenon. A strong body of scientific evidence shows that it is unequivocal that humans have caused the Earths climate to warm, with a likely human contribution of 0.8 to 1.3 degrees Celsius to global mean temperature since the late 1800s, according to NOAA. We need to acknowledge we have a problem, CLEO Institute Executive Director Yoca Arditi-Rocha told the Herald Editorial Board. CLEO is a nonprofit dedicated to climate education, advocacy and engagement. Florida has made progress since the days when then-Gov. Rick Scott banned state employees from using the term climate change in official communication. DeSantis and Republican lawmakers created a resiliency fund to help communities pay for projects to mitigate the impacts of flooding and sea level rise. He also appointed a chief resilience officer, though that position was vacant for 20 months before the appointment of Wesley Brooks last November. These were historic moves, but only because Florida did so little before that. To date, there are no statewide plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or goals to transition to renewable energy. The glimmer of hope rests in local communities 10 of them have committed to move to 100% clean energy, WUSF reported. Miami, for example, wants to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. But the state government often is a barrier to such initiatives. For example, the Legislature banned local governments from controlling pollution from utilities. Florida alone wont solve climate change. But the Sunshine State is the second-largest consumer of electricity in the country, and 70% to 75% of it comes from fossil fuels, Arditi-Rocha said. Transitioning to renewable energy would be a huge contribution to addressing the issue, she said. While rooftop solar-power generation has grown in the past decade, it still runs up against the powerful lobby of Floridas utility companies that want to maintain their monopoly on energy production. Florida Power & Light pushed a bill this year that would have curbed the expansion of solar, and we commend DeSantis for vetoing it. The company boasts about its investment in clean energy and solar farms, but climate advocates like Arditi-Rocha accuse FPL of green washing its efforts to obstruct green energy policy in the state. What should Floridas future look like? Ideally, the state would set a goal to curb carbon dioxide emissions, every other home would have a rooftop solar panel. We would harness the power of wind. We would make saving future generations from the biblical destruction of hurricanes a principle that guides our government and the private sector. Nothing will happen until more elected leaders utter these simple words publicly, again and again, and at the risk of sounding like a broken record: Climate change is here, and its making hurricanes stronger and more destructive. Gov. DeSantis, it starts with you. Flynas, a Saudi low-cost airline, has launched a "Future Engineers Program" aiming to enhance the Saudisation of the aircraft maintenance and engineering field in the aviation sector. The program comes as a strategic step that confirms the carrier's dependence on Saudi youth in line with the approval of the board of directors of flynas to increase the number of its purchase orders of new aircraft to 250 aircraft as part of its growth and expansion plans over the next few years, said a Saudi Press Agency report. The new program, which started on October 1, provides extensive on-the-job training opportunities for Saudis holding diplomas, bachelor's, or master's degrees in aeronautical sciences and engineering. The first batch of the program includes 30 Saudis who will begin qualifying and training this month to graduate as maintenance and aircraft engineers and join the crew of engineers at flynas. The training will be in Riyadh, and its duration will be six months for Saudis holding master's degrees, 12 months for those holding bachelor's degrees, and 4 years for those with a diploma. The government-supported program aims to graduate highly-qualified Saudi engineers in flynas in the coming years. To join the program, the applicant must be a Saudi national with a diploma, bachelor's, or master's degree in aerospace science, engineering, and aviation technology. Priority is given to holders of the General Authority of Civil Aviation licence in the specialisation. Flynas has successfully launched everal programs to localise jobs in the aviation sector in the Kingdom, the most prominent of which was the "Future Pilots" program, which succeeded in achieving a 100% Saudization for the position of co-pilot in addition to the cabin crew program for Saudi male and female flight attendants. Flynas was the first Saudi carrier to open the cabin crew field to Saudi women, contributing to empowering women in that field in the Kingdom. The number of male and female graduates in the the cabin crew program has reached more than 600 young men and women, it said. Emirates SkyCargo is adding a new channel for its customers around the world to directly access and book its flights for cargo shipments, in a digital-led move to enhance user experience and booking efficiency. Working with WebCargo by Freightos, the industrys largest air cargo booking platform, Emirates SkyCargo customers will have quick and easy direct access to the cargo airlines flights and inventory to make direct bookings, said the company. "Emirates SkyCargo continues to develop and implement digital technologies that enable us to improve our operations at the backend and enhance our customer experience at the frontline. Partnering with WebCargo enables us to improve access to our products and services, and provide a secure and convenient booking channel for our customers. This is one of several initiatives in the pipeline as we work hard to ensure that every Emirates SkyCargo touchpoint, from booking to tracking to delivery, is a world class experience for our customers," said Nabil Sultan, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Cargo. Zvi Schreiber, CEO of the Freightos Group, said: "We are proud to partner with Emirates SkyCargo, one of the worlds largest airlines, on their journey to power more efficient supply chains. WebCargo connects over 10,000 freight forwarding offices globally to airlines representing over 40 per cent of available global air cargo capacity and we continue to see that instant pricing and booking, whether on WebCargo.co or via WebCargos APIs, delivers dramatic improvements in efficiency and data reliability, while providing the flexibility needed to navigate todays supply chain disruptions." Emirates SkyCargo is rolling out customer access to the WebCargo platform in a phased manner, with Spain, The Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy, The United Kingdom and Turkey going live tomorrow. By the end of October, Emirates SkyCargos inventory on the WebCargo platform will be available to customers across all of Europe, followed by Australia and the United States in November. Customers in Asia and Africa will have access by January 2023. -TradeArabia News Service B. Lin found herself homeless after her good intentions squared off against bad people. The clash led to squatters illegally occupying and trashing her once-nice home in a middle-class neighborhood in northeast Colorado Springs. And for more than three months, Lin has been seesawing between living in her car and staying in a homeless shelter. Meanwhile, her home is now on the citys list of 38 dilapidated and condemned residences. People think Im crazy when they hear what happened, she said. My life has not gone well at all. I blame myself. The tragic irony of Lin ending up homeless after squatters took over her property which she and her now estranged husband had purchased as a newly built Richman home in the late 1980s is uncommon, said Glenn Shellhouse, who does unpaid street outreach for Rocky Mountain Human Services. As an agency volunteer, hes been helping homeless people get back on their feet for seven years. Her story was so unique that it popped out at me immediately, Shellhouse said. I hear a lot of stories, a lot are heartbreaking, a lot are moving, and hers is unusual. But the tale of squatters isnt. Squatting occupying an empty building or piece of land without the owners permission happens all over the city all the time, said Chase Kinter, a code enforcement officer with the city of Colorado Springs. We deal with it constantly, he said. The most prevalent situation is when renters move into a house or apartment without the landlord knowing and are not on the lease agreement, Kinter said. Other situations typically arise as a result of negligent landlords or people refusing to leave the premises. Lins case is more of an extreme. Good-heartedness led to her being taken advantage of, which the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated and created even more difficulties righting what went wrong. I act strong, but Im not, said Lin, who's in her 60s. I dont want to show it. Colorado Springs was home base for Lins military family, who moved around while raising their children. They also traveled when her husband exited military service and worked for a government department. The couple never rented out the house while they were on job assignments; it stood empty and waiting for them, she said. They also never had problems until four years ago, when her husband retired, and they returned to Colorado Springs for good. Lin, who was born in Taiwan and emigrated as a young woman, and her husband had hired a remodeling crew to spruce up the property. One of the guys said he didnt have any money or any place to stay or credit, she explained while showing the ruins of her house. I felt sorry for him. It was so cold out. The couple provided a basement bedroom in their five-bedroom home, with Lin being her hospitable self, cooking for the man and making sure he was comfortable. But he soon brought a relative to live there, she said, and eventually sneaked in a girlfriend. When Lin found a hypodermic needle in the dryer, shed had enough. We kicked them out, she said. But she had given the man a key to the home and didnt ask for it back. When marital problems surfaced, Lin fled to Florida and left her husband behind. She thought he was continuing to live in the residence, but then she began receiving calls from the citys code enforcement about issues at the Colorado Springs house. Her husband had abandoned the home, and his whereabouts are still unknown to Lin and code enforcement, who have tried to contact him. Squatters told city authorities who would come to the house that the owner had died or was on vacation. Squatters also transferred utilities accounts to their names and accumulated $18,000 in outstanding bills, which accrued during COVID leniency, Kinter said. If I would have known what was going to happen, Lin said, I would never have left. While in Florida, Lin became ill, suffered injuries from a car crash and underwent several surgeries, which she said prevented her from returning to Colorado Springs until June. The state of her beloved retirement dream left her feeling as broken as the home looked. From 2018 to May of this year, but particularly during the pandemic, the residence was a central hub for homeless people, neighbors told her, with at one point up to 30 people staying there. I kept the house up real good, Lin said, fighting back tears while looking at the empty rooms. Squatters left behind holes and writing on the walls, bare wooden floors that previously had plush carpeting, gouged countertops, missing light fixtures, wrecked plumbing, zero furniture, mice feces and a lingering odor of discontent. But the propertys appearance is much better than its condition in June, when code enforcement condemned it. It was completely filled with trash, rodents, debris, Kinter said. Things were scurrying everywhere. In May, after pandemic restrictions on tenancy and evictions lifted, $7,500 in outstanding utility bills on the house remained, and Colorado Springs Utilities tagged the water heater for being unsafe, code enforcement officers received municipal court orders for entrance and seizure warrants. Authorities told about 15 people to leave due to unsafe and unsanitary conditions, and in June, code enforcement boarded up the house. The damage that had been done was extensive and required a huge load of work to clear out, Kinter said. But even after barricading entryways, posting signs and changing the locks, Lin said people continued trying to get in. She points out marks on the front door where people attempted to break the new locks, and where basement windows were shattered to bypass the blockades. One night Lin slept in her car across the street from her shuttered home and watched as a man climbed a tree in the backyard and went into a second-story bedroom, apparently to retrieve some belongings. Another day over the summer, she found guns stashed in a barn on the property, which she and her estranged husband had never used, because it was new when she left four years ago. I had to call police several times in July, she said, adding that shes been returning to the house once or so a week to clean and make sure no one occupies it. Codes enforcement removed trash from the outside and hauled away inert vehicles multiple times, Kinter said. The city billed Lin for the service, which Lin said shes still trying to pay off. It is beyond my power, beyond my budget to do this, she said of her house woes. A family member paid a nearly $35,000 bill for a professional cleaning company to gut and strip the interior, Lin said. Inhabitants used alcohol, methamphetamines and other narcotics, Kinter said. "They were under the influence of various drugs; it was never-ending," he said. It seemed obvious that drug dealers lived there, said a neighbor who didnt want to give his name because he didnt want it appearing in a public account. Squatters stole cars, he said, and police showed up every other week and made a number of arrests. Police responded to the address on numerous complaints for abandoned autos, disturbances, medical calls, reports of assault and sex-offender registrations, said Robert Tornabene, spokesman for the Colorado Springs Police Department. The neighbor said he was glad when the property was condemned. It was a busy spot, he said. And as for Lins situation: Its rare you see anything this tragic, the neighbor said. The longer squatters stay in a place that doesnt legally belong to them, the harder it becomes to remove them, Tornabene said. Police have the legal authority to remove someone within the initial 24 hours of squatting, but after that, police cannot arrest them, he said. If squatters establish residency by putting utility bills in their name or receiving mail at the address, then it becomes the process of figuring out if an eviction would occur, Tornabene said. Squatters can claim a residence after 18 years of living in it, according to Colorado law. Its difficult to get people out, Tornabene said. The law has vague definitions and is so different than other states. To prevent squatters, he said people should put up signs that say No trespassing, and provide written notice to anyone whos in a house or apartment without permission that they cannot be there. There are steps that have got to be put in action, saying people cant be doing what theyre doing, Tornabene said. Kinter advises homeowners to have someone they trust check on their property if they plan to leave it empty for a period. Also, be sure to have a lease agreement signed with all tenants, he said. You need to have a contract in place for someone not to take advantage of you, Kinter said. Lin fears the process to restore her home to a habitable state will be long and beyond her meager finances and lead to an extended stay for her at the homeless shelter. The water heater in Lin's home needs proper ventilation to function properly again and other renovations need to be completed. As long as she's showing progress, the work can continue, Kinter said. These types of properties are rampant in the city, he said. What's Shakin'?? Over the past 50 or so years, we have born witness to some of the greatest and funniest comedy writing ever created, brought into our homes every week through indelible, noteworthy and hilarious sitcoms. As my seasons seem to now alternate between autumn and winter, back to autumn and then to winter again, I gratefully realize that what I found to be hilarious in my youth is now, in my twilight, a sustenance of life infusing laughs necessary to make it to the next day. But it's the laughs remembered today that are reinforced as unparalleled hilarity because what made us laugh as kids, was funny but fictional. Today, those same lines and jokes generate our laughs because, unfortunately, we old folks have become the punchline and our everyday lives are what those olden days comedy writers had in mind when they wrote that script in the first place. There are any number of sitcoms that over the years have injected into the American language new and nuanced bromides and shibboleths now known to us all as a standard part of the lexicon of our everyday conversations. Think of "Seinfeld," "Sanford and Son," "Larry Sanders," "Murphy Brown," "King of the Hill," "Monty Python," "Friends," "Taxi," "M*A*S*H," and "All in the Family," and you will hear again what you may have forgotten about where many rangy and widespread colloquialisms and pidgins originated. My all-time favorite has to be "Cheers" and the repartee and banter written into the dialogue of character "Norm Peterson" played by character actor George Wendt. Norm's witticisms and waggery are hilarious to me today not just because it's funny, but because in my later life, I have become "Norm Peterson." Case in point; I have come to do business where old guys hang out and that also provides free coffee. That is the daily double. But the trifecta is where those same guys can get me laughing at myself and into an asthmatic spasm. When that happens, I know I have chosen the right place to stop. So, when I show up at the shop of my local welder, I can smell the strong coffee and can count the assemblage as the chorus of voices vociferate their common greeting. "Sayles! What's Shakin'?" I can't help myself. I have become "Cheers" Norm Peterson as I rejoin, "All Four Cheeks and a Couple of Chins." Funny, not because it's new and unknown, but hilarious, because everyone knows that for each of us standing around with our free cup of coffee, the four cheeks and two chins is absolutely true. For the next hour or so, the comedy of life that you just can't make up was fired back and forth rapid-fire and so freaking risible and riotous that not a geriatric stand-up troupe in the world could compare. Joe tells of his annual fall solo motorcycle ride where this year his loose and sagging cheeks and jowl skin caught so much wind that he thought he was going to go airborne from his bike like a kite in a gale. Joe adds, "I looked in the mirror and saw a bloodhound facing into a hurricane." Mike vivified our masses with one-upmanship when he regaled of his own fall motorcycle jaunt where his once Atlas-esque biceps, now muscle-less and loose skinned, flapped in the wind with such inordinate and obscene vigor, he was left with deep purple bruises that required medical treatment. Then Dave shows up. "Dave, what's up?" Dave, with his deadpan delivery shoots back, "My weight and it's perfect if I was eleven feet tall." The Dave directs at me, "Sayles, how's the world treating you?" Having not yet quit channeling Norm Peterson, I come back with, "Its a dog-eat-dog world out there, Dave, and Im wearing Milk Bone boxer shorts." On that note, I finish my last free cup of coffee on the way to my truck and smile knowing that what was funny today will also be funny again down the road at one of the "Next Times". souvik101990 wrote: Some companies in fields where skilled employees are hard to find make signing an "agreement not to compete" a condition of employment. In such an agreement the employee promises not to go work for a competing firm for a set period after leaving his or her current employer. Courts are increasingly ruling that these agreements are not binding. Yet paradoxically, for people who signed such agreements when working for competing firms, many firms are unwilling to consider hiring them during the period covered by the agreement. Which one of the following if true, most helps to resolve the paradox? (A) Many companies will not risk having to become involved in lawsuits, even suits that they expect to have a favourable outcome. (B) In some industries for example, the broadcast media, companies main source of new employees tends to be people who are already employed by competing firms (C) Most companies that require their employees to sign agreements not to compete are aware that these documents are not legally binding (D) Many people who have signed agreements not to compete are unwilling to renege on a promise by going to work for a competing firm (E) Many companies consider their employees established relationships with clients and other people outside the company to be valuable company assets -Correct. Even though the company knows that the courts will rule in their favour, they still have to incur the costs of a lawsuit. - OFS. Doesnt tell us why cos do not hire employees during their non-compete contract period - We dont have to know about the previous company but the future company which doesnt hire the people during their non-compete period. Irrelevant - OFS. We are concerned about those people who sign the agreement but do go to other cos for employment - I don't think any co would consider the relationship between its employees and their past cos as a valuable asset. Time : 1:37(A) Many companies will not risk having to become involved in lawsuits, even suits that they expect to have a favourable outcome.(B) In some industries for example, the broadcast media, companies main source of new employees tends to be people who are already employed by competing firms(C) Most companies that require their employees to sign agreements not to compete are aware that these documents are not legally binding(D) Many people who have signed agreements not to compete are unwilling to renege on a promise by going to work for a competing firm(E) Many companies consider their employees established relationships with clients and other people outside the company to be valuable company assetsAnswer: A AD Ports Groups Safeen Group and Amaan Baghdad Company have signed an agreement to support a new project relating to fuel oil transport and storage from Khor Al Zubair and Umm Qasr oil terminals in Iraq. The project represents a significant extension of Safeen Groups portfolio of dedicated products and services into the oil and gas sector and is part of its ongoing expansion in the key market of Iraq, said a statement by AD Ports Group. Under the terms of the agreement, Safeen Feeders, a subsidiary of Safeen Group, will manage the entire project, providing three Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) and one Medium Range (MR) tanker. Working with Amaan Baghdad Company, Safeen Feeders will transport fuel oil from terminals in Port of Khor Al Zubair and Umm Qasr South Port to Iraqi territorial waters using the MR tanker. The fuel oil will then be transferred and stored on the VLCCs, which will serve as floating fuel tanks with monthly delivery capacity of 750,000 tonnes. The agreement is secured at competitive rates, providing flexibility for the Iraqi partners, and ensuring a favourable rate of return for Safeen Group, which will not engage CapEx in this transaction. Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, Acting CEO of the Maritime Cluster and Safeen Group, AD Ports Group, said: We are pleased to complete this new agreement to support a major fuel oil transport and storage project in Iraq. The energy sector is an important growth market for Safeen Group, and this project demonstrates our expertise in this area as well as the extent and sophistication of our fleet. At the direction of our wise leadership, Safeen Group is expanding its global footprint to provide key maritime services to companies around the world. This agreement underlines our capacity to tailor solutions to the specific needs of companies in the oil and gas industry and marks an important extension of our presence in Iraq. Fadie Fouad, CEO Amaan Baghdad Company, said: We have selected Safeen Group based on its comprehensive suite of world-class marine services and the expertise of the dedicated team who will manage this project. The global fuel oil market has been volatile in 2022, and this additional storage capacity will support Iraqs competitive offering. In addition to this new agreement, Safeen Feeders supports a weekly container service that connects Iraq with global markets. The company continues to look for opportunities to support the growth and diversification of maritime trade for Iraq.--TradeArabia News Service DANVILLE, Va. Just east of the National Cemetery on Lee Street lies a rolling green expanse of hills dotted with grave stones. Known as the Freedman Cemetery, the citys nearly 8-acre, first Black cemetery dating back at least 160 years is being examined by the city of Danville for identification of unmarked graves. So far, a firm using ground-penetrating radar has located what are believed to be 418 unmarked graves in the multi-phase interment location project. The goal of the project started in August 2021 is to collect and document a history of the cemetery and those buried there. City officials hope to beautify the old cemetery and add kiosks and historic markers for visitors. Phase one was completed last year with a result of more than 400 interments located and a report containing a history of the cemetery completed by Rivanna Archeological Services in Charlottesville. The second phase, expected to begin this week, will work to locate more unmarked graves. Each grave from the two phases of the project will receive a stainless-steel marker with a unique identifier and a GPS point will be collected. Those points will be used to map and update cemetery records. Its [the cemetery] been in city ownership and maintenance for years, said Renee Burton, planning consultant for the city. Weve been maintaining it for years. It just hasnt received a lot of attention. Officials want to learn more about the history of the cemetery and the people buried there. We want to figure out what that history is before we honor them properly, Burton said. For years, Danville resident Dean Hairston has been researching the genealogies of those buried there. There are about 2,000 Black people many of them who died while enslaved and others who were born into slavery but died free after the Civil War buried in Freedman Cemetery, Hairston said. During their span of time in this world, they filled a variety of professions from carpenters to shoemakers, physicians to janitors, barbers to tobacco workers. Hairston, deputy police chief with the Danville Police Department, developed an interest in the cemetery years ago, and would visit it and walk through it while working his beat. Not too long ago, I started recording the names from the stones and started going to ancestry.com, and then tracing the history and going to the genealogical section of the library and researching their names, Hairston said. According to the report from Rivanna, Freedman Cemetery, like the neighboring National Cemetery, was carved out of the 34-acre Green Hill park and cemetery property bought by what was then the town of Danville in 1863. The report estimates Freedman Cemetery was most likely established between 1866 and 1873, during Reconstruction. No formal deed of sale for the ... 7.75-acre Danville Freedmans Cemetery was found during archival research, the report states. Because of this, it is assumed that the cemetery continued to be owned by the town of Danville. The report mentions that at least one prominent source states that a man named Moses M. Green donated the cemetery to the town of Danville, but casts doubt on that story. But because Moses Greens mother was Black, he may have had some connection to the establishment of the cemetery, the report states. Few options Black residents in Danville had few options for public burial during the post-emancipation period, the report states. No public burying ground accepting African-Americans existed in the town of Danville until the establishment of the Danville Freedmans Cemetery, the report states. The Danville Freedmans Cemetery then was established out of necessity. It is not known who managed the cemetery. But during the first 50 years after emancipation, many Black cemeteries in the U.S. were managed by benevolent or mutual aid societies and other charitable organizations. Within post-emancipation African-American society, these social groups helped their members and the broader community during financial difficulty, often providing aid to the elderly and poor, and during sickness and death, the report states. The cemetery had been neglected by the city and overgrown before Danville removed broken stones in the 1960s or 1970s so the site could be mowed, Hairston said. Those broken stones were used to fill in ditches, he said. Hairston found out in his research that they were also put to other uses. I came across someone who had taken the stones out of the cemetery, he said. They had a house on Holbrook Street and were using them for steps. It turned out the people said they had gotten the stones out of a ditch and found them discarded. Thats why they were using them. At the cemetery, its easy to spot the difference between the neighboring, largely white National Cemetery with neat plots with gravestones and the spotty, sparsely-marked Freedman Cemetery. During slavery, the graves of enslaved Black people didnt get stones, but were marked by painted rocks instead an African cultural tradition, Hairston said. Freedman Cemetery pre-dates Reconstruction and the Civil War era, Hairston said, estimating that about 30%-40% of those buried there died during slavery. Others interred there were born in slavery, but died free after the war, he added. Others were born after slavery. People were buried there through the mid-20th century into the 1960s, Hairston said. Prominent residents There are prominent people buried at Freedman, Hairston pointed out. Nathaniel Holbrook, who was enslaved by Levi Holbrook and founded the first Black funeral home in Danville, is buried there, Hairston said. Another man, Spy Allen, was born into slavery but died a free man. His grave is symbolically marked with three links of a chain. Hairston said he plans to donate his genealogical research information to the city for use in its database. Ground penetrating radar involves sending it below the surface to see if there are anomalies underneath, Burton said. It cannot tell you whats there, she said. It can give the size and width of whats there. Phase one of the project cost about $16,500, but about $11,500 was paid for by a grant from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Phase two will cost $18,209, with $12,709 to be covered by a grant from the department, Burton said. The city is paying for the remainder of the projects costs. The first two phases of the project are limited to a two-acre section of the cemetery. But the city plans to eventually cover the remainder of the site, Burton said. GREENSBORO Greensboro Day School announced today that it has received a $5 million gift the largest in its 53-year history. The gift from Steve and Jackie Bell serves as seed funding for the private schools planned Center for Student Life, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation, which was announced by Head of School Tracie Catlett on Sept. 21 as one of the priorities of the schools new Campus Master Plan. The school at 5401 Lawndale Drive serves approximately 865 students. Jackie and Steve Bell have been tremendous supporters of and investors in education in North Carolina at the college and PK12 levels, Catlett said in a news release. We are so grateful for their passion and historic philanthropic support for Greensboro Day Schools future Center for Student life, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation. The center will provide a new central hub for the school and will include programs in entrepreneurship, design and the arts, engineering, public purpose and student wellness. In addition to entrepreneurial incubator spaces, the center will include an industrial makerspace that will accommodate textile design, woodworking, soldering, 3D printing and welding. It also will include flexible, hands-on spaces allowing students to explore current and emerging technologies in robotics, virtual reality and artificial intelligence. Catlett said that Greensboro needs a strong public and private school system to support economic growth and to attract future growth in the Triad. The Bells historic gift, Catlett said, has created significant momentum toward making the schools vision a reality. Jackie and I have loved living in Greensboro for over 53 years, Steve Bell said in the news release, noting that 13 of their children and grandchildren have attended the school including four who currently attend. The high quality and dedication of the faculty and staff will ensure a great learning and social environment for current and future Greensboro area students, Steve Bell said. Our gift will help create a new facility that will foster innovation and equip students with the skills they need to become leaders in the Triad and beyond. Phillip John Paxson should still be alive, says the friend who found the man's Jeep overturned in a Hickory creek on Saturday. Paxson, 47, was dead inside the vehicle, which ran off of a collapsed bridge on 24th Street Place Northeast, in the northern part of the city, around 11 p.m. Friday, according to N.C. State Highway Patrol. Family and friends say the accident was preventable. Hopson and Paxson were together Friday night for a birthday party at Hopson's home. Its tragic. Im very sad and mad, Hopson said. Weve been fighting this battle since this bridge washed out. Nobody wants to take responsibility for fixing it or barricading it. The bridge has been closed since 2013, after it collapsed when a culvert washed away. Hopson said that, from his house, less than a mile away on 26th Street Drive Northeast, to the bridge on 24th Street Place Northeast, there are no signs indicating the bridge is closed. He also said there was no barricade. The barricade that was previously there had blown into the creek before the accident. Over the years, (the gap in the highway) just kept getting bigger and bigger, Hopson said. Weve petitioned and tried to raise money for an attorney and got absolutely nowhere. According to the Highway Patrol, the road is not maintained by the N.C. Department of Transportation. Troopers and other emergency responders reported finding Paxson's 2020 Jeep Gladiator upside down and partially submerged in the creek Saturday around 9:45 a.m. Paxson's wife, Alicia, said her family was celebrating their 9-year-olds birthday and the birthday of a friends son that night. Alicia Paxson said she and her husband drove separately to the party because she brought the decorations and cake. Alicia Paxson said daughters Juliet, 6, and Amelia, 9, rode to the party with Philip Paxson. The girls rode home with her. She said she is thankful they were not in the car when their father wrecked. Alicia Paxsons sister, Kayla Bubar, said Philip Paxson loved his daughters. Alicia Paxson said he would let the girls do his hair and would wear their jewelry. Alicia Paxson said family members and friends made a memorial to Philip Paxson on Sunday. Dozens of flower bouquets, photos and trinkets lined the edge of the collapsed bridge. Alicia Paxson said she left a fake $100 bill, because her husband was known to play jokes on people by giving them a fake $100. I just want people to know that its not his fault, Alicia Paxson said. The number of people dying by suicide while locked inside North Carolina prisons is at a historic high so far this year. Since Jan. 1, nine inmates have ended their lives in the prisons, an average of one a month, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Only once in the past 30 years in 2018 have North Carolina prisoners killed themselves so frequently. By another measure the percentage of inmates who die by suicide 2022 is shaping up to be even worse than 2018. Inmate advocates are alarmed. They suspect severe staff shortages inside the prisons are largely to blame. In August, about 40% of correctional officer positions were vacant, according to the state Department of Public Safety. As officers struggle to keep order in many short-staffed prisons, they have required prisoners to spend long periods alone in their cells, the advocates say. Research has found that such solitary confinement can cause and worsen mental illness. On top of that, advocates say, the staff shortages mean that many inmates have less access to mental health treatment and that prison officers cant check on inmates as frequently as they used to. This is an alarm, said Susan Pollitt, a senior attorney for the nonprofit Disability Rights North Carolina. Its got to be a wake-up call. Prison officials take many steps to prevent inmates from harming themselves, state Department of Public Safety spokesman John Bull said. They work to identify inmates who are experiencing mental health problems and provide them treatment, he said. They also place more than 2,000 inmates a year on suicide watch. The department takes this issue seriously and our mental health, medical and security staff take extensive efforts to assist offenders with mental health and self-harm issues, Bull said in a written statement. He needed help The latest victim 29-year-old Didier J. Carias, Jr. had long suffered from schizophrenia and paranoia, his parents say. They say he recently was getting treatment for those problems at a hospital when he punched a man there. As a result of that probation violation, he was sent to prison. Soon after entering Piedmont Correctional Institution in Salisbury on Aug. 25, he hit an officer and was immediately put in solitary confinement, his parents say. While there, he couldnt visit with his family or even talk with them by phone, they say. His time in solitary confinement only made his mental health problems worse, his parents suspect. On Sept. 26, just 32 days after hed entered the prison, he was found hanging by a sheet tied to a sprinkler head, his parents say. Now his parents question why a person with such severe psychological problems was placed in solitary confinement. Being alone for 30 days is a long time, his mother, Judy Carias, told the Charlotte Observer. Even a normal person would go crazy. Why did they put him in solitary? He needed help. His father, Didier Carias Sr., said he has learned that other inmates at Piedmont Correctional have also died in the same way in recent years. The Observer has confirmed that at least five other inmates at that prison have killed themselves since 2008, and that at least three of them died by hanging. We want to know why they havent done anything about it, Carias father said. State prison officials declined to discuss the cases of those who died. A state of despair and depression County jails recently saw a spike in suicides, too. At least 21 people in North Carolina jails took their own lives in 2020, a record number, according to a Disability Rights North Carolina report released this year. All but two of the suicides in state prisons this year happened inside maximum security facilities, where inmates are housed in single cells instead of dormitories. In August, the correctional officer vacancy rates in those prisons ranged from 16% to 62%. At least four of the inmates who died by suicide this year were in restrictive housing, the prison systems term for solitary confinement, state records show. About 2,500 of North Carolinas 30,000 prison inmates are currently in solitary confinement. But those officially in solitary confinement arent the only state prison inmates forced to cope with extreme isolation in recent years. During the most dangerous portion of the pandemic, before vaccines became widely available, many inmates in maximum security prisons were confined to their cells almost all day as the prisons worked to limit the spread of COVID-19. Since then, advocates say, officers in some short-staffed prisons have continued to lock down many inmates for 22 or more hours each day, even if they have not technically been placed in solitary. Those conditions have taken a toll on inmates, advocates say. I think theres a sense of helplessness, said Sandra Hardee, executive director of NC CURE, an inmate advocacy group. Weve moved into a very volatile situation. Kerwin Pittman, policy and program director for Emancipate NC, a Durham-based civil rights group, says he hears regularly from men and women locked up in state prisons who say they are suffering the effects of extreme isolation. It just leads to a state of despair and depression, he said. It forces them to stew with the reality that they are in a cage. Pittman has seen firsthand what can happen to inmates in such circumstances. During an 11-year stay in state prison, he said he spent nearly 1,000 days in solitary confinement. Although he kept himself sane with the help of many books, he said others in the hole werent so fortunate. Ive seen a lot of people lose sight of reality and go crazy back there, he said. Didier Carias parents wonder whether prison had that effect on their son, too. When he was taking medication for his psychiatric problems, he was a happy young man who loved to go to church, listen to hip hop music, and spend time with his brother and 6-year-old nephew, his parents said. But when he was off his medications, he could be an entirely different person. He heard voices, his mother said, and often felt people were out to get him. Whether hed been getting his medication in the weeks before he died is unclear, his parents said. There has to be something coming out of this, his mother said. We want justice. We want no other people to go through what we are going through now. Unbearable conditions Some of the inmates who reportedly took their own lives in the state prisons this year had documented mental health problems. Among them was Marcus Robinson. In 2012, Robinson became the first North Carolina prisoner to have his sentence reduced under the states Racial Justice Act. He had been on death row, but a judge in the racial justice trial re-sentenced him to life without parole after finding that prosecutors had intentionally removed Black citizens from the jury that convicted him of murder in 1994. While in prison, Robinson, 49, was classified as Mental Health Grade 3, the most severe psychiatric classification, due to depression and schizophrenia, according to a medical examiners report. In early June, inmates at Scotland Correctional Institution, in Laurinburg, noticed that he had not been eating and had not been socially active on his cell block, according to the report. On June 9, he was found hanging in his cell. Elizabeth Simpson, an attorney for Emancipate NC, is investigating Robinsons death. She said she has heard from multiple inmates that prisons are so short-staffed that officers frequently skip their required checks on inmates. As a result, she said, officers likely miss seeing when some prisoners are gripped by mental health crises. With more officers and more checks, she said, more inmates who are preparing to kill themselves might be caught. The conditions in which (Robinson) died are conditions that others are living in, Simpson said. And theyre very unbearable conditions. Bull, the prison spokesman, disputed allegations that officers have skipped checks. Correctional Officers make their rounds, as required, he wrote. After a spate of inmate suicides in 2016, state prison officials put in place a plan to prevent more inmates from taking their own lives. Among other things, it required that the prisons train staff members to recognize when inmates are at risk of killing themselves. It also said prisons should try to keep inmates with mental illness out of solitary confinement, a punishment that can worsen psychiatric problems. In 2017, Bull said, suicide prevention training was offered to all of the prison systems licensed behavioral health staff. And in 2018, prison officials created a suicide prevention work group to evaluate all aspects of suicide prevention. Prisons staff are dedicated to identifying offenders with mental health issues, particularly those at risk for self-harm, through comprehensive risk assessment and the implementation of a suicide watch protocol for individuals determined to be at-risk, Bull wrote. But advocates say that given the severe staff shortages, the recent deaths highlight the need to further reduce the population of the states prisons. Among those who they say should be released: elderly and disabled inmates who pose no threat to the community. Said Dawn Blagrove, executive director of Emancipate NC: They simply cant safely and securely keep as many people in cages as they are now. A coroner's inquest will be held Friday regarding the suspected suicide of an inmate at the Lewis and Clark County Detention Center on Oct. 24, 2021. Delain Valenzuela Davis died as a result of asphyxiation from hanging while in the custody of the detention center, according to a press release from the Lewis and Clark County Coroner's Office. The Montana Department of Justice's Department of Criminal Investigation investigated the death, and a coroner's inquest is required any time someone dies while being taken into custody or while in the custody of a peace officer. The one-day inquest will be conducted by Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Coroner Jessie Billquist-Jette. It will begin at 9 a.m. Friday in room 204 of the Lewis and Clark County Courthouse with the selection of a six-person jury. In late 2020, Davis was arrested and charged with felony sexual intercourse without consent with a child in Lewis and Clark County. He was 27 at the time of the arrest. In 2013, Davis was charged with attempting to sexually assault a 7-year-old girl in Yellowstone County. He was later found guilty of that crime and was classified as a Level 1 sex offender. If you are struggling and need help, dial 9-8-8 for Montanas Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline. A 57-year-old North Dakota man is being charged with felony sexual assault of a juvenile and felony indecent exposure for crimes he allegedly committed when living in Lewis and Clark County. According to an affidavit filed in justice court, John Alvin Simpson was accused of committing sex crimes against a juvenile in their early to mid-teenage years. The juvenile disclosed that Simpson had made the child go without clothes as a form of punishment on numerous occasions over multiple months. Simpson confirmed that he forced the juvenile to strip as a form of punishment on multiple occasions. The juvenile also stated that Simpson would make the child sleep without clothes and set up a camera with an app that was connected to his phone to monitor the child sleeping. Simpson confirmed he did this, although this may have happened outside Lewis and Clark County, according to court reports. The juvenile told authorities that Simpson would give the child massages while the juvenile was without clothes. The child also reported being touched by Simpson in many areas, including private areas of the body. Simpson admitted to massaging the juvenile and touching the child in inappropriate areas. Simpson also exposed his genitals, according to the juvenile. Simpson admitted that he would only wear a robe while massaging the juvenile with nothing underneath, according to court documents. All are innocent until proven guilty. The last few years have without doubt, witnessed an acceleration of supply chain challenges with complexity and volatility increasing. More than 50% of supply chain leaders expect product design, manufacturing, and delivery to increase in complexity through 2027, according to Gartner. Meanwhile, a recent survey by Make UK highlights the knock-on effects to supply chains from increased energy, transport, and raw material costs, as well as transport availability, with 80% of companies saying that increased energy costs have caused disruption to supply chains. This new world has created a need for resilient supply chains and warehouses which have the elasticity to cope with fluctuating capacity and demand, while demonstrating best practice in efficiency, safety and sustainability. Keeping the following points in mind should help you create a good strategy for building a successful warehouse of the future. 1 Data data data While there are many options for the organisation of data, data lakes have become a popular means of putting data into common formats which can then become easily accessible and malleable, and used across different applications as appropriate. Data lakes aggregate everything, independent of source and format, covering both structured and unstructured data, and storing it in its native format. The data is processed appropriately, irrespective of size limits and formatting restrictions. New technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotic process automation (RPA) and augmentation can provide further value to a data strategy in that they can support repetitive low value tasks to free up resources. 2 Is cloud optional? Cloud makes interconnectivity with third party partners easy, and herein lies the key to harnessing supply chain complexity and creating agility to steady volatility. Infor Nexus for example, connects businesses to all partners, including manufacturers, brokers, 3PLs and banks through a multi-enterprise cloud-native supply chain network. Some of the biggest global brands rely on networks such as this to fulfil their brand potential. 3 The power of the platform Its important to have a vision for a digital platform which has resilience, longevity, and flexibility. Once you know what and how you want to change, its easy to work backwards and create a list of features and benefits before marrying capabilities with specific needs. However, its prudent to remember that on their own, these applications are not going to deliver fundamental change. They wont necessarily integrate with other providers, and disparate systems inevitably bring inefficiencies and risk. For the depth of change necessary, its all about the power of the platform. Leveraging a platform such as Infor OS delivers both the foundation, and the all-important data lake, to accommodate and integrate the selected business applications. 4 The people factor The warehouse of the future is of course digital, but digital is about much more than automation of processes and enhanced workflow. The warehouse of the future empowers people and creates value through leveraging multi-dimensional data across a resilient and agile cloud-native supply chain platform. Only through adopting a strategy focused on the core pillars of data; cloud; platform and people, will warehouses possess sufficient elasticity to cope with fluctuating capacity and demand, and the tools to navigate both internal, and macro-economic volatility both today and well into the future. To learn more about Infors industry specific cloud-based software solutions for distribution and industrial manufacturing, visit ITEX Global, in Hall 7, stand E50, on October 10-14. Khaled AlShami is vice president, solution consulting, Infor Middle East & Africa Last week, Helena Bengals were released into the wild -- to collect data. The beginning of the year we met, and weve all been discussing making biology more relevant to them and getting them excited, said biology teacher Jamie OMalley. ... Im just excited because Ive been teaching for 15 years, and every year there's a kid who gets a spark and theyre like, I think I want to be a biologist. O'Malley and fellow biology teachers Brandon Day, Missy Sampson, Tyler Hollow and Claire Pichetter arranged the field trip to Spring Meadow Lake State Park for around 200 students. Each biology period went on one of the three days - Sept. 26, 28 or 30. Fish, Wildlife & Parks Montana WILD educators Corie Rice and Ryan Schmaltz split the students into two groups. One group went with Rice to do some bird watching, and the other went with Schmaltz to head down to the water. Rice stated that Montana WILD has been doing a bird survey for nine years following the same path around Spring Meadow. She pointed out that the data the students collect today on the birds will be entered on ebird.org, a citizen science website. One of the age-old ways to study birds and their movements is by banding birds, said Rice. Rice explained that with bigger birds, ornithologists typically climb up to the nest and band them when they are babies. For small birds, mist nets are set up for them to fly into them. This summer, Montana WILD had a banding station set up at Spring Meadow Lake State Park for the first time ever. They set up these mist nets and went around every 10 minutes to get the birds out of the nets, measure them, weigh them and band them with very small bands. Some of the local birds spotted around Spring Meadow Lake in the fall are Mallard, Northern Flicker, Wood Duck, Black Billed Magpie, Osprey, House Finch, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, Belted Kingfisher and Black Capped Chickadee. Student pairs received binoculars and a sheet to tally bird sightings. Over by the water, Schmaltz was guiding the students through a BioBlitz where they search for as many species as possible in a specific assigned area. Students were given a bin to scoop water, an ice cube tray, spoons, a data sheet and a mesh sifter to sort out and identify the diverse life in the lake. Some of the organisms found by one group of students were Crawling Water Beetles, Stonefly Larva, Pouch Snails, Planarians and more. Its interesting because theyll find certain stuff here in the spring, summer and then the fall, said Schmaltz. Some of the things theyre finding are things we only find here in the fall, and its weird that we dont scoop them in the spring, but its all just the cycle of the lake These are the bottom level of the food chain, and theyre making food webs, transfer of energy, all that is coming together. Theyre not just looking in a textbook. When it was time to switch, the water group went to go bird watching with Rice. The bird group came to Schmaltz, and they headed over to Ten Mile Creek with a new set of clean equipment so as to not spread invasive species from one body of water to the next. Schmaltz stated that New Zealand mud snails in Spring Meadow Lake are the main invasive species they dont want spreading. This is kind of a lead into our ecology unit, to apply everything theyre learning here, said Day. Instead of just pulling data from their textbooks, theyre doing place based nature learning and applying it to what theyre doing, making it interesting and relevant to their backyard, added Schmaltz. Hurricane Ian dominated news cycles for much of the week. After forming and eventually leaving Cuba without power after slamming the island, the Category 4 storm became one of the strongest ever to hit the U.S. As of this recording on Friday morning, the storm had killed at least six people in Florida and was tracking north toward Charleston, South Carolina. For historical context, we take a look at how the storm progressed through the week. By Tuesday morning, Ian had intensified into a Category 3. In the afternoon, concerns grew that the storm would continue to intensify. More than one million people in Cuba were left without electricity. On Wednesday morning, Ians winds were reaching 155 mph and the region around Tampa, Florida, was bracing for a direct hit. By the afternoon, the storms eyewall had reached Florida and more than 2.5 million people were told to evacuate. By Thursday morning, Ian had been downgraded to a tropical storm as the state dealt with the destruction. Meteorologists also warned that the storm could intensify once again. On Friday, Ian was once again a Category 1 storm and tracking north along the Atlantic Coast. There were several stories of note related to Capitol riots of Jan. 6, 2021. A trial began for the founder of the Oath Keepers and four associates. In separate trials, a rioter received a 7-year sentence and another was convicted. Ginni Thomas, the wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, spoke with the House committee investigating the events of the day. In other national news, President Joe Biden had an embarrassing moment during a press conference. Sirhan Sirhan, who assassinated Robert F. Kennedy, asked for his release. A gunmaker is being sued over a July 4 parade shooting. And students in Virginia protested transgender policies. In science, health and technology news, NASA rammed an asteroid. Pumpkin farmers are adapting to changing conditions. Nightly newscasts are morphing due to streaming habits. And teens are seeking out birth control following the Supreme Courts abortion ruling. In economic news, consumers have been gaining confidence as gas prices have fallen. Fewer people applied for unemployment benefits. The White House wants airlines to show more details about prices on plane tickets. Apple is shifting iPhone production and Amazon plans another Prime Day. And in international news, Russia annexed four regions of Ukraine on Friday. Edward Snowden was granted Russian citizenship. Patrol boats spotted Chinese and Russian naval ships off the coast of Alaska. Compiled and narrated by Terry Lipshetz from Associated Press reports Montanas Commissioner of Political Practices announced on social media Monday that he will be retiring before his term ends, stepping down just before Election Day. In a short message posted to Twitter, Jeff Mangan thanked his staff and noted that his early departure from the role would come shortly before his six-year term is set to expire in 2023. This morning I contacted Gov. (Greg) Gianforte, President of the Senate (Mark) Blasdel, and Speaker of the House (Wylie) Galt and tendered my resignation as Montana Commissioner of Political Practices, effective Nov. 7th, 2022, Mangan wrote. I appreciate their graciousness. The Commissioner of Political Practices is a nonpartisan, appointed position that oversees an office responsible for enforcing Montanas campaign, ethics and lobbying laws. The office assists political candidates and lobbyists with compliance issues, and investigates and enforces infractions of those laws. Commissioners serve only one term. Mangan had previously been a Democratic lawmaker from Great Falls, from 1999 to 2006, when he was nominated to be the states top political cop in May 2017. He was selected, along with one other candidate, by a bipartisan panel of lawmakers to be forwarded to then-Gov. Steve Bullock, a Democrat who appointed Mangan from the shortlist. Not since Dennis Unsworth's departure at the end of 2010 has anyone served out a full term as commissioner. Past commissioners have at times come under fire for bringing a perceived partisan bias to their work investigating political complaints. Republican lawmakers have for years brought legislation seeking to disband the office or reduce the power commissioners wield. Mangans predecessor, Jon Motl, was another Bullock appointee and was frequently attacked by Republicans who felt he pursued complaints against GOP politicians more vigorously than those against Democrats. Motls aggressive prosecution of former Rep. Art Wittich, a Republican from Bozeman who in 2016 was found guilty of accepting illegal campaign contributions, has been strongly criticized by some in the GOP. But Mangan, whose term didnt include any cases as controversial as the high-profile Wittich trial, had earned praise from both sides of the aisle for his approach to the role. Most recently Mangan began calling attention to harassment of election officials in Montana by activists spreading unfounded allegations of voter fraud. Election misinformation, disinformation, the stuff thats happening across the state, is harming and putting at risk our election officials, our election judges, our election volunteers and poll-watchers in the coming elections, he said, addressing a legislative interim committee earlier this year. He has since asked the same committee to draft up legislation that would ensure that the crime of obstructing a public servant also applies to interfering with the work of election officials. Mangans announcement didnt indicate why he is stepping down early, stating only that he will be returning to the private sector. His announced departure date is the day before Election Day. DECATUR Christian Romero, 13, and his brother Daniel Romero, 12, brought their mother Juliette Sneed to the recent Helping Hands Resource Fair. I just wanted to learn what you have here, all the different opportunities, Sneed said. The family recently moved to Decatur from Mesa, Ariz. after also living in Chicago. Sneed found Decatur was ready to help her with several resource agencies when other cities she has lived in were not. They are very informative, she said about the resource fair. The Helping Hands Resource Fair was a one-stop-shop of family services available in Decatur. The volunteers spoke to families about educational opportunities for the parents, life skills, and recreational opportunities. Although much of the information was compiled for the parents, the Romero brothers found several interesting resources for youth. It was cool they had things kids could do, Christian Romero said. Some of the more than 20 agencies taking part in the recent resource fair included Dove Homeward Bound, Girl Scouts, Homework Hangout, Crossing Healthcare and Heritage Behavioral Health Center. Rebecca Mattingly, family support and family transition coordinator for student services with Decatur Public Schools, began planning the Helping Hands Resource Fair only six weeks ago. The event was made possible by the McKinney-Vento grant, with a focus on homeless families. We didnt want to give them a hand-out, we wanted to give them a hand up, she said about the original meaning of Helping Hands Resource Fair. Were just here to help and get agencies together to help people. Mattingly began calling agencies to join the event shortly after a brainstorming session. Then people started calling us, she said. I guess word travels. Another Helping Hands Resource Fair is scheduled for the spring at MacArthur High School. More agencies plan to attend. Organizers said they will focus on housing opportunities. We have families who dont have homes, Mattingly said. According to Jodi Tull, transition and family engagement supervisor, the Decatur school district has a large population of low-income families. Well focus on the homeless piece, but well invite the entire district, she said. This is a great opportunity for all of our families. Along with families, the school districts family liaisons were also invited. There may be agencies and resources that theyre not aware of that we can hopefully connect them with, Tull said. They are kind of the bridge from home to school. Decatur Public School Student Services For more information on the Decatur Public Schools resources for families, call 217-362-3060. For those unable to attend the resource fairs, families are encouraged to reach out to the the school district's student services or the school liaisons. Michael Karas, a case worker at Old Kings Orchard Community Center, greeted visitors to discuss the centers opportunities. Were about ready to offer a free drivers education program for the community, he said. Although Old Kings Orchard has been an important resource for families and children for more than 20 years, the staff said they still need to reach out to families and provide information on their services. We go to events like this and we find new people that weve never interacted with, Karas said. They also want to work with each other. We want all of the providers working together, Karas said. This is necessary just so people can network and help as many people as possible. Genea Lawler is director of juvenile justice programs with Webster Cantrell Youth Advocacy. "We have to work better at educating our community and showing them what services we have so that theres awareness. #TogetherDecatur Do you know a person or of a story that exemplifies the best of Decatur? Contact Donnette Beckett at (217) 421-6983 or dbeckett@herald-review.com. Kris Boomer, bi-lingual Spanish teacher at Johns Hill Magnet School, recommended her families come to the resource fair. Oftentimes families dont know of the resources available to them here in Decatur and the Macon County communities, she said. To get a one-stop shop of information is a wonderful opportunity. The organizations also have the opportunity to meet the families they are trying to reach. Boomer wanted to introduce them all. There might be that language barrier, she said. They understand that Im a resource myself. I can be that service as well. DECATUR A family escaped injury but their puppy died Monday afternoon when fire damaged a Decatur home. A news release from the Decatur Fire Department said fire crews arrived at the house at 1255 E. Riverside Ave. at 12:18 p.m. to find heavy fire and smoke erupting from the windows on the east side of the residence. Fire crews made an aggressive fire attack with a handline through the front door and into the dining room where they encountered heavy smoke and fire conditions, the release said. As a second truck stood by to provide water supplies, the release said firefighters climbed onto the roof and assisted with ventilation after the fire was knocked down. A puppy was located inside the residence and despite rescue efforts succumbed to his injuries, the news release said. There were no injuries to family members or first responders. The American Red Cross is now assisting two adults and five children with accommodation needs and the cause of the fire remains undetermined. The labor union and trial lawyer-backed All for Justice independent expenditure committee has so far reported raising $3.5 million, with, Im told, at least another $5 million in pledges. The committees sole purpose is to back the two Democratic candidates running for the Illinois Supreme Court, Appellate Justice Mary K. OBrien and Judge Elizabeth Rochford. And its spending is finally beginning. A press release claimed, an initial (advertising) buy of $3 million, with plans to spend millions more informing residents of the 2nd and 3rd districts of these extremists on the ballot. The ad features a woman emphasizing that just one seat on the Illinois Supreme Court could imperil or preserve abortion rights. Mark Curran and Michael Burke want to ban abortion in Illinois, even in cases of rape and incest. Women put in jail for making their own medical decisions? Thats not what I want for my kids. Thats not what I want for anyone. Mark Curran and Michael Burke are too extreme and they dont belong on the Illinois Supreme Court. The ad will almost surely face legal opposition. The Illinois Republican Party made a big deal last week about a similar TV ad aired by Supreme Court Justice Burkes Democratic opponent, Appellate Justice OBrien. The ILGOP demanded that OBrien take down the ad, which claims, Mike Burke says he agreed with the decision to overturn Roe. Hes supported by the extreme groups that want to ban all abortion for Illinois women. Burke is backed by anti-abortion groups. The first sentence in that excerpt, however, is hotly disputed by the Republican Party, which claims Justice Burke, has not expressed any opinion on that issue or any issue that may come before the Illinois Supreme Court. Justice OBriens campaign, however, pointed to Burkes attendance at an important Illinois right to life banquet. Burke said this year that, like the U.S. Supreme Court justices who voted to overturn Roe v. Wade, he too is a constitutional originalist, meaning he refers back to the original drafting of the Constitution rather than subsequent court rulings when making a decision. He also noted that abortion is not an enumerated right in either the Illinois or the U.S. constitutions. Its very difficult to legally force a TV station to take down a candidates advertisement. But, as weve seen in the past few weeks with Dan Profts People Who Play by the Rules PAC ads for Darren Bailey, its not nearly as difficult to force an independent expenditure committee to prove the truthfulness of what its saying in its ads or see them yanked. Time will tell if the new All for Justice ad stays up. Meanwhile, the opposition research is starting to come out on Curran. My associate Isabel Miller posted some of it on CapitolFax.com last week, but expect more to emerge on topics like Currans comments about the January 6 attempted insurrection (the police officer who shot Ashli Babbitt should resign, he said) and on gay rights (Curran said at a rally opposing a same-sex marriage bill that the law would result in the loss of liberty for those opposed to same sex marriage). And, of course, theres abortion. Curran has attended anti-abortion rallies, donated some of his own campaign funds last year to Illinois Citizens for Life and praised Donald Trump for appointing Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, among other things. Curran is also the former longtime sheriff of Lake County, which is fully in the 2nd Supreme Court District, and he may still have some residual name recognition from his 2020 race for U.S. Senate, which Curran lost to Dick Durbin 55-39. Money-wise, the Supreme Court races started about even in July, as far as the candidates were concerned. But that has changed considerably in the past month or so. Democratic Justice OBrien has since reported raising almost $1.6 million to Justice Burkes $13,000. Democratic Judge Rochford has reported raising $742K to the Republican Currans $137K, much of it from his family. The Ken Griffin-funded Citizens for Judicial Fairness independent expenditure committee had more than $5.5 million in the bank at last check. It is not expected to help Curran, but is expected to jump in for Justice Burke. The Firewall Project, which is raising money to back Republicans for the Supreme Court and Greg Hart for DuPage County Board Chair, has reported raising $440K in the past few weeks. But the Democrat-affiliated All for Justice IE committee is hoping to have a budget of as much as $8-10 million by election day. So stay tuned. About 600 Appalachian Power customers remained without power late Monday afternoon as a result of tropical storm Ian moving through the region. The former hurricane significantly decreased in strength by the time it arrived in Virginia. Despite this, the rain and the gusts of wind left 29,000 Appalachian Power customers without power over parts of the weekend. Its service area includes parts of West Virginia, Tennessee, and Virginia. Appalachian spokesperson George Porter said most of the outages caused by the storm in their service area were dealt with swiftly and were relatively low maintenance. This past weekend, it was fairly straightforward. Now we didnt have to do much of clearing and things like that in trying to get to the locations. So it was pretty straightforward, Porter said. Obviously, those 29,000 customers were inconvenienced while we worked to get service restored, but it was fairly low maintenance. Porter explained the hardest hit areas in terms happened south of Roanoke. We obviously did have outages in that area (the Tri-Cities). But they werent one of the hardest hit areas, Porter said. South the Roanoke, Patrick County, Wythe County those areas they were the most severely hit. Remaining isolated outages in Southwest Virginia and around Kingsport, Tennessee were expected to be resolved late Monday. Were pretty much resolved. We have less than 600 customers in our entire service territory, thats Virginia, West Virginia, in Tennessee, that are still without power. So, we pretty much wrapped everything up over the weekend, Porter said. When considering that a growing world population will need nourishment in the decades to come and that U.S. milk production has the ability to continue to grow, the question is not if our domestic industry can reach customers around the globe, but how we will . To find the answer to that question, we must look at our current limitations to foreign markets, and one of those is trade, said Patti Smith. Maintaining customers, whether domestic or abroad, is about staying competitive on price and being able to deliver product reliably. Both of those factors are supported internationally by effective trade agreements and reduced tariffs, which are opportunities U.S. dairy needs to continue to work to seek out, said Smith on the September 14 Hoards Dairyman DairyLivestream. Smith serves as CEO of DairyAmerica, which is based in California and supplies dairy products to more than 60 countries. Growth in future trade will require our industry to spread its wings and seek out new markets where our products can be valuable, she believes. Currently, tariffs and trade are instead hindering some of that expansion. When we compete against Oceania and the Europeans, in most cases, they have better tariff advantages than we do, many times in double digit percentages, Smith explained. Thats significant dollars over millions of pounds of imports and exports. The discussion also highlighted the fact that apart from the revamp of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) into the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that went into effect in 2020, the U.S. had not entered into a free trade pact since 2012. That was with Peru and Colombia. Between those two agreements, we also dropped out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which was mostly focused on Southeast Asian countries. On the other hand, our main exporting competitors, Oceania and Europe, are looking for trade agreements much more often, Smith said. To stay relevant and competitive on the world stage, thats an area the U.S. has to be more aggressive in. We also have to encourage that, as an industry, we fight for trade agreements and really demonstrate where the advantages are, said Smith, adding that we have to be in front of these causes instead of one step behind. Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa are particularly promising regions for these discussions to involve. Quality, not commodity As we look to reach these markets, it is becoming increasingly important for U.S. manufacturers to offer products higher up the value chain. Smith said that work has already begun, and it must continue. The U.S. dairy industry has historically had a perception of being lower quality, more commoditized. Thats no longer the case, she said, noting the technology, sustainability, and transportation efforts that processors have taken to produce and provide more valuable dairy products. Consider that many cheese varieties are exported today thanks to their taste and other attributes, in addition to versatile dairy ingredients. Continuing to make those investments and being able to capitalize on them through effective trade agreements and reduced tariffs will be the keys to maintaining the momentum that U.S. dairy exports have gained in recent years, Smith explained. To watch the recording of the September 14 DairyLivestream, go to the link above. The program recording is also available as an audio-only podcast on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, and downloadable from the Hoards Dairyman website. Register to continue receiving updates The next broadcast of DairyLivestream will be on Wednesday, October 12 at 11 a.m. CT. As of January 2022, we moved to a new system. If you have not yet, you will need to re-register to continue receiving email updates and links to the webcasts. You can sign up here now. Registering once will sign you up for all future events. To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com. (c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2022 September 29, 2022 In the name of common sense, please do not support Hungarys accession to Ukraine Istvan Tenyi addressed the Prime Minister about the latest craze, i.e. Ukraines accession to NATO. The well-known lawyer was put off by the fact that on September 30, the Ukrainian presidential office issued a statement in which, as they say, after the meeting of the Ukrainian National Security Council that day, they decided to apply for Ukraines admission to NATO in an accelerated procedure. In the name of common sense, I ask that the Government of Hungary does not support Ukraines forced NATO membership. The preservation of global peace may also depend on the position of the Hungarian Government. among other things, Tenyi also wrote this in his public interest announcement addressed to the Prime Minister. In it, he explained: NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg answered a journalists question about Ukraines possible accelerated NATO accession by saying that all such decisions must be made unanimously by the thirty NATO member states. According to Ukrainian presidential adviser Mihjalo Podoljak, from September 30, 2022already ten member states have announced that they support Ukraines application to join NATO. According to the Twitter post, those supporting the request are mostly countries that remember the poisonous claws of the Russian empire. Istvan Tenyi reminded: the first promises regarding Ukraines possible NATO membership were made at the 2008 conference of the military association in Bucharest, where the organization openly committed itself to the future admission of the Eastern European country. In the same year, Ukraine submitted its intention to join the NATO membership action plan. However, the relevant negotiations stalled in 2010, after the pro-Russian Viktor Yanukovych won the Ukrainian presidential election, which projected closer cooperation between Russia and Ukraine, and at that time, the majority of Ukrainian society was also more against joining NATO. However, the situation took a turn for the worse in 2014, when a revolution broke out in Ukraine as a result of Yanukovychs failure to sign the association agreement with the European Union, making it clear that he envisions Ukraines future alongside Russia. The revolution eventually swept away Yanukovychs power and a government sympathetic to the West was established in Kiev. In fact, there are a number of factors that make it highly unlikely that Ukraine will become a full member in the near future. According to his words despite large-scale reforms and efforts to modernize equipment, the Ukrainian armed forces remain relatively outdated, as they still use weapons systems inherited from Soviet times. In addition, the current developments are more aimed at fixing the wrinkles of old devices, rather than purchasing devices that work according to modern technology. In view of this, according to some opinions, the state of the Ukrainian armed forces still falls short of the level expected of a modern NATO-compatible army. He emphasized that some Western legislators are worried about the fact that radical right-wing groups can also be found among the Ukrainian fighting units. It says: The fact that war is raging in the eastern part of Ukraine, and that the Crimean Peninsula, which is still part of Ukraine according to international law, was annexed by Russia is a particular problem. If Ukraine were to join NATO, the military alliance would be obliged to intervene in these areas, which would almost certainly lead to a conflict with Russia. He puts forward as the most compelling argument that a Russian reaction is expected against Ukraines NATO membership. Considering the signals received so far from the Russian side, Russia would certainly not tolerate it if its western neighbor became part of NATO. writes, adding: its size and strategic location make Ukraine a determining factor in the security region of Central and Eastern Europe, and even the entire Euro-Atlantic region. Especially from the point of view of the security policy prospects of the Central European countries bordering it, it does not matter what orientation Ukraine chooses in terms of foreign and security policy. From its independence in 1990 until 2004, Ukraine followed a rather variable foreign policy direction, in which sometimes the intention to integrate with the West and sometimes orientation towards Russia seemed to be more decisive. Although the leading political forces of the Orange Revolution of November-December 2004 spearheaded Euro-Atlantic integration, the period that has passed since then has proven that there are many strategic, political and social obstacles in front of it. From a strategic point of view, we must clearly see that Ukraine is the terrain of primary importance for the ongoing Russian-American, and to a lesser extent, Russian-Western European competition for influence over the Eastern European region. As a matter of fact, the countrys NATO membership would clarify Ukraines geostrategic position, and in the long term, it would fundamentally influence its internal political, economic and social conditions. For Hungary, the collective defense guarantee provided by NATOs fifth article represents the most important and primary meaning of membership. This is primarily due to Hungarys geopolitical position, as the region has historically been located almost without interruption in the collision zone of the spheres of interest of great powers and civilizations, or in the neighborhood of unstable competing states. In this context, Hungarian security policy must continue to reckon with Russia, as a military and energy superpower of the beginning of the 21st century. Adds: A country at war cannot join NATO, as the consequences would be unforeseeable (probably World War III). It is therefore hardly expedient for Hungary to force Ukraines rapid NATO membership. In order to promote Ukraines western orientation, however, Hungary must strongly support the further opening of the European Union towards Ukraine, showing a clear membership perspective for the medium 10-15 years term. In his letter, he emphasizes: In the name of common sense, I ask that the Government of Hungary does not support Ukraines forced NATO membership. The preservation of global peace may also depend on the position of the Hungarian Government. The Western world is running mindlessly towards the abyss, holding something in front of it so that it does not see what is at the end of the road formulated by Istvan Tenyi in his letter to Viktor Orban. As is known, the following statement was signed on the second of October: We, the Presidents of Central and Eastern Europe, countries whose leaders visited Kiev during the war and witnessed the effects of Russian aggression with our own eyes, cannot remain silent in the face of the Russian Federations flagrant violation of international law, and therefore issue the following statement : We reiterate our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We do not and will never recognize Russian attempts to annex Ukrainian territory. We firmly stand behind the decision of the 2008 Bucharest NATO summit on Ukraines future membership. We support Ukraine in its defense against Russian invasion, demand that Russia withdraw immediately from all occupied territories, and encourage all allies to significantly increase military assistance to Ukraine. All those who commit crimes of aggression must be held accountable and brought to justice. Milos Zeman, President of the Czech Republic Alar Karis, President of the Republic of Estonia Egils Levits, President of the Republic of Latvia Gitanas Nauseda, President of the Republic of Lithuania Stevo Pendarovski, President of the Republic of North Macedonia Milo ukanovic, President of the Republic of Montenegro Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland Klaus Iohannis, President of Romania Zuzana Caputova, President of the Slovak Republic PestiSracok.hu, photo: MTI Dodik and his left-wing challenger in the Republika Srpska went head-to-head, the Muslims voted down Izetbegovic. The general elections in Bosnia-Herzegovina did not go as expected, according to the preliminary results of the election commission, the voting of the Bosnian, Croat and Serb communities also brought surprises. Izetbegovic failed to return Zeljka Cvijanovic won the Serbian seat in Bosnias three-member presidency (51.65 percent), and this did not cause any surprise, the candidate of Milorad Dodiks Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD) led throughout the campaign based on all opinion polls. The victory of the Croatian member is not so clear, based on the preliminary results of the election committee, the candidate of the Croatian Democratic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina (HDZ BiH), Borjana Kristo, received the most votes (51.36 percent), and in second place with 48.64 percent of the votes. Zeljko Komsic, candidate of the Democratic Front (DF), has graduated. But on the night of the election, the DF candidate first announced his victory, referring to the partys own data collection. And the biggest fall belongs to Bakir Izetbegovic. The leader and presidential candidate of the Democratic Action Party (SDA) missed four years of the countrys leadership, because he was previously a Bosnian member of the state presidency for two mandate periods, between 2010 and 2018, and therefore could not run four years ago. Now he wanted to return to the leadership of the state, and all signs indicated that he had a very good chance of doing so, but the will of the voters showed otherwise, and Bakir Izetbegovic won only 39.31 percent of the votes, while the voters for the united oppositions candidate, Denis Becirovic 55.78 percent voted. However, according to expectations, the SDA won the majority of parliamentary seats for Bosniaks. Dodik can be nervous The election commission did not say who won the post of president of the Republika Srpska. According to the local press, this shows that the race between SNSDs candidate, Milorad Dodik, and the leftist candidate, Jelena Trivic, could be very close. On the night of the election, both candidates announced their victory, although while the candidate of the Democratic Progressive Party (PDP) celebrated loudly and with street musicians, Milorad Dodik had fun behind closed doors, and at his press conference he was very restrained when he said that, as far as he knew, he received more votes, but you have to wait for the official final results. The election commission has not yet announced the results of the allocation of other places. However, all these are only preliminary results, the election committee has 30 days to announce the final results, but previous experience shows that it is expected to be known within 7-10 days who received the most votes. On Sunday, the voters of Bosnia and Herzegovina decided on 518 future members of the countrys various bodies. Three members of the collective state presidency, the president and two vice-presidents of the majority-Serb part of the country, the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, 42 representatives of the lower house of the Bosnian federal parliament, 83 representatives of the parliament of the Republika Srpska of Bosnia, the Bosnian-Croat part of the country, the House of Representatives of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina 98 members, as well as members of the representative bodies of the ten cantons of the federation. (MTI) Opening photo: MTI/AP/Darko Vojinovic Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), one of the worlds largest aluminium smelters, announced today that it has signed a Long-Term Service Agreement (LTSA) with Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI). The LTSA covers parts, repairs, and services of a new 680.9 megawatts (MW) Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Power Block, featuring Mitsubishi Powers advanced J-series gas turbine technology. The long-term agreement will enhance the reliability, efficiency, and availability of power supply, thereby protecting Albas aluminium production, a cornerstone of Bahrains economic growth and development, according to a statement by Alba. This signing follows Albas recent agreement with Mitsubishi Power & SEPCOIII to design, engineer, procure, construct and commission a new Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Power Block as part of the expansion of Power Station 5 in Bahrain. Mitsubishi Power will supply a combined cycle power unit, comprised of the M701JAC gas turbine, an air-cooled version of J-series gas turbines, and a steam turbine. Under the terms of this agreement, Alba will benefit from Mitsubishi Powers comprehensive warranties and extended service support, to enhance and drive performance and efficiency. Khalid Salem, President of Middle East & Africa at Mitsubishi Power said: As part of our growing partnership with Alba, Mitsubishi Power is proud to support Alba with this long-term service agreement for the new Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Block 4 in Power Station 5, which we were awarded earlier this year. We are committed to support Alba in providing and ensuring reliable and efficient power supply, while continuously enhancing operational excellence and productivity as well as reducing operating and fuel costs to meet its commercial and environmental goals. Adding further, Shaikh Daij Bin Salman Bin Daij Al Khalifa said: With commercial operations set to begin in Q4 2024, the LTSA will be essential to ensure Albas Block 4 providing uninterrupted, reliable power while supporting our long-term vision for sustainable and efficient aluminium production. As part of the agreement, Albas new Power Block 4 in Power Station 5 will also utilize Mitsubishi Powers award-winning suite of intelligent solutions TOMONI, a customizable suite of user-driven, digital power plant solutions fueled by cutting-edge analytics and decades of turbine operating and monitoring data. TOMONI harnesses big data to provide real-time predictive insights, adaptive control and actionable knowledge, for higher power plant performance, reliability and optimization and to achieve environmental performance goals. Mitsubishi Power will continue to leverage decades of experience and innovation to equip customers across the Middle East and North Africa region with advanced, innovative, and clean energy solutions required to achieve a robust, reliable, and resilient energy infrastructure that brings it one step closer towards a carbon neutral society.--TradeArabia News Service He said he hopes the winter wont be too cold. Cingolanis comments came after Russian gas giant Gazprom announced on Saturday that it would suspend gas deliveries to Italy via the pipeline through Austria because the Austrian grid operator did not confirm delivery volumes. All this was confirmed by the Italian energy provider ENI on Sunday afternoon. In its statement, ENI emphasized that the situation is expected to remain unchanged until October 4. Normally, Russian gas arrives in Italy via a pipeline through Austria at Tarvisi and is distributed from there. Before the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, Italy covered roughly 40 percent of its gas needs from Russian gas. However, the government of outgoing Prime Minister Mario Draghi has decided to become independent from Russian gas supplies and during the summer, it concluded an increased natural gas supply contract with, for example, Algeria, which has now become Italys most important gas supplier. In recent months, only 25 percent of Italys gas needs were supplied by Russian shipments, and more gas flowed to Austria than from there. Cover image: Getty Images CONCORD A Saturday morning fire at a single-family residence on Central Drive Northwest caused an estimated $10,000 in damage and left one resident displaced. The home was unoccupied at the time of the fire, according to a news release from the Concord Fire Department. The Concord Fire Department was dispatched at about 9:57 a.m. to 1056 Central Drive NW after a passerby called 911 to report smoke coming from a chimney. Firefighters arrived on scene within four minutes to find smoke showing from the home. Fire crews immediately deployed pre-connected fire attack lines and entered the residence. The fire was brought under control within nine minutes. A search of the home located one deceased pet. Central Drive Northwest was closed for about one hour while crews responded and extinguished the fire. Concord Fire Department was assisted by the Kannapolis Fire Department, Cabarrus County EMS, and the Concord Police Department. A total of three engine companies, one ladder company, one rescue company, one incident safety officer, and two battalion chiefs responded with a total of 25 firefighters. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. No injuries were reported. The federal government has accused telco Singtel Optus of dragging its feet on providing full details of users whose data was compromised in a data breach which the telco reported on 22 September. Government Services Minister Bill Shorten told a media conference in Melbourne on Sunday morning that a request on 27 September had sought more details about the Medicare and Centrelink data that had been leaked in the data breach. The best thing you can do right now @optus to repair your brand is spend less time posting ads in newspapers and bus stops and more time helping people replace their ID numbers at no cost to them. And then overhaul your security (or lack there of) pic.twitter.com/bk4Cxu1wqr Glen Codes (@GlenCodes) October 1, 2022 Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said it was important that Australians realised that 10,200 people had already had their data shared on the Internet. "Optus have advised me that they have [told] those 10,200 people who they are. And I want to say to those people that I would advise you and the Australian Government's advice to you is that if you have been told you are the subject of that particular part of the breach, you should proceed immediately to cancel relevant ID cards, to cancel your passport and do whatever else is needed to make sure that you are getting fresh identity documents based on the email that was provided to you." Inreleased on 28 September, headlined "Optus update on Medicare ID Number", the telco claimed, "We are in contact with Services Australia and we will be letting all affected customers know the guidance on the steps they can take." Optus has said more than 37,000 Medicare numbers were exposed in the data breach of which about 15,000 are active. Said Shorten: "...it's one thing to say how many people use Medicare numbers, but we actually need to get the data. So we're in a position to, if there's an attempt to use that number to gain further information, if we know who the affected people are, the Optus customers, then we can at least red flag if there's an attempt. "I should also just repeat that we have multi-factor identification with Medicare. Just because someone has a Medicare number [it] won't be enough to be able to hack into your Medicare records. This data, we don't know what form [it is in]. "I'm sure Optus will eventually give it to us, but we don't know what form, how usable the information that they keep in there are. The way they keep their data will be for us to assess. So just the sooner we can get the data, the sooner we can get to putting in some protection plans for anyone who's been the victim of this crime." Basic question about the Optus hack has to be: why are they holding all this information? Surely, there has to be a total ban on any such operators accumulating more information on people than is absolutely necessary for their basic function. It should not have to be 'opt out'. Prof. Peter Doherty (@ProfPCDoherty) September 30, 2022 Shorten added: "...it's one thing to say how many people use Medicare numbers, but we actually need to get the data. So we're in a position to, if there's an attempt to use that number to gain further information, if we know who the affected people are, the Optus customers, then we can at least red flag if there's an attempt. "I should also just repeat that we have multi-factor identification with Medicare. Just because someone has a Medicare number [it] won't be enough to be able to hack into your Medicare records. This data, we don't know what form [it is in]. "I'm sure Optus will eventually give it to us, but we don't know what form, how usable the information that they keep in there are. The way they keep their data will be for us to assess. So just the sooner we can get the data, the sooner we can get to putting in some protection plans for anyone who's been the victim of this crime." "Keeping the very personal data of customers who had ceased to be customers years ago. I have yet to hear a reason why that was going on." What changes should be made to data protection laws in the wake of the Optus hack?#Insiders #auspol pic.twitter.com/08RUOFWFXY Insiders ABC (@InsidersABC) October 1, 2022 Shorten stressed that it was the customers who had their data compromised who were the victims. "The people who are really in pain are not the senior Optus executives. The people in pain are the 10 million people who've had their privacy breached," he said. "Sure, I get [it] if they've got to have a legal strategy, that's what corporations do. But the first priority has to be surely to protect Australians. That's why we just want to be honest. I don't know why they're not on the phone every couple of hours telling us how they're going, getting the data ready in a form which we can use... the drawbridge needs to come down." The last public statement made by Optus about the breach was two days ago. Both sides of politics are putting pressure on Optus chief executive Kelly Bayer Rosmarin to step down over her handling of the data breach which the company made public last Thursday . Opposition cyber security spokesman James Paterson joined the chorus of criticism on Tuesday, calling on Bayer Rosmarin to resign if the public had been misled on the company's reaction to the breach. Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil, who on Monday described the attack on Optus' network as being anything but sophisticated as Bayer Rosmarin had claimed expressed concern on Tuesday about reports that Medicare details had been leaked in the data that was made public. Paterson told The Age: The federal government and Optus must publicly clarify the facts about this hack, because if the Optus CEO has misled the public about sophistication of the attack, or the encryption of the data or its protection, as the minister has implied in her comments, then Ms Bayer Rosmarin positions is clearly untenable. O'Neil said in a statement that there had been no advice from Optus about Medicare details being part of the data taken in the breach. In the email sent to those affected, Optus said: "The information which has been exposed is your name, date of birth, email associated with your former account, and the number of the ID document you provided such as drivers licence or passport number. No copies of photo IDs have been affected." What happened at Optus wasn't a sophisticated attack. We should not have a telecommunications provider in this country that has effectively left the window open for data of this nature to be stolen.#abc730 pic.twitter.com/KamkiapcZl Clare O'Neil MP (@ClareONeilMP) September 26, 2022 Apart from claiming on Friday that the attack was a sophisticated one, Bayer Rosmarin claimed on Tuesday that all the data had been encrypted. She did not detail how the attacker had managed to break this encryption as all the leaked data was in a plain text file. In 2019, Optus obtained an exemption from the Coalition Government from a requirement to encrypt all metadata collected as part of Australias data retention regime. The attacker appears to have been spooked by all the attention and claimed to have deleted the data in his/her possession, after first releasing the details of 10,000 users and threatening to keep making an equal number visible each day for the next five days. Meanwhile, the authorities in South Australia, Victoria, NSW and Queensland have said that any licences which were exposed would be replaced, with the plan being for Optus to pick up the bill. include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/$theme/includes/sidebar.php"; ?> Democrats promised that defunding the police would yield utopia. Congresswoman Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (D New York) predicted that America would look "like a suburb." AOC did not mention that this posh village would include hoodlums breaking into mansions, residents getting robbed beside white-picket fences, and neighbors seeing BMWs carjacked at gunpoint. This horror show is the result of deliberate Democrat policies: Defund the police Demonize the police Demoralize the police Pro-criminal "prosecutors" who defend punks Decriminalize shoplifting. When Californians swipe less than $950 worth of goods per instance, this barely enforced misdemeanor becomes a 100 percent discount. Businesses cannot survive by donating their merchandise. Violent criminals watch this lawlessness and think: "Our time is now." No cash bail. Michael Palacios was arrested on September 16 for terrorizing a Manhattan McDonald's with an ax. Eighteen hours later, he was free without bail. Some judges wish to hold dangerous offenders but cannot. Others gleefully give culprits second, 43rd, and even 102nd chances. The NYPD says that Kevin Douglas attacked Thai fashion model Bew Jirajariywetch on the Subway last February. Douglas had 44 prior arrests, including 16 on May 13, 2019. He was released 15 times that day. "Super perp" Sean Cooper was arrested for stabbing Uber Eats delivery man Bharatbhai Patel on Tuesday. It was Cooper's 103rd time in handcuffs. Now what? Sign up for the daily JWR update. It's free. Just click here. Democrats cannot be trusted on crime. Period. They are too wedded to political correctness and "equity" to inconvenience lawbreakers who, unfortunately, are disproportionately black and brown. Fighting crime, alas, means fighting blacks and Hispanics more than whites. Since this is "racist," (never mind that minority offenders' victims tend to be black and brown) Democrats are paralyzed. The solution is to pry Democrats from office. Republicans can fight crimes without getting their boxers and panties into knots over evil-doers' ethnicity. Local, state, and where appropriate federal GOP candidates should promise this path back to law and order: Deny law-enforcement grants to jurisdictions that let wrongdoers run rampant. Subject pro-criminal "prosecutors" such as Chicago's Kim Foxx, Los Angeles' George Gascon, and Philadelphia's Larry Krasner to withering interrogation at oversight hearings. As Senator Ted Cruz (R Texas) recommends, deny confirmation to pro-criminal Biden appointees, as should have befallen police-defunding cheerleaders Kristen Clark and Vanita Gupta. They now are top Justice Department officials. Fund the police: Boost budgets to recruit, train, pay, promote, and retain police officers. Entice rookies by helping them pay their college debts in exchange for law-enforcement service. Where possible, fire pro-criminal prosecutors. If sworn-in as governor, New York Republican Lee Zeldin promises immediately to sack Manhattan's thug-hugging DA, Alvin Bragg. He is yet another far-Left "prosecutor" funded by real-life James Bond villain George Soros. Conservative donors should furnish the antidote to Soros' poison. Their campaign cash can help recall his faux "prosecutors" and replace them with crime-crushing lawmen. Once elected, Republicans should reinstate the Broken Windows police strategies that Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani (R New York) and Police Commissioner Bill Bratton used to transform Gotham swiftly from America's crime capital into its safest metropolis. Giuliani and Bratton confirmed that quality-of-life criminals who jumped turnstiles and urinated in public often robbed, raped, and killed, too. Lesson: Hit minor crime, hammer major crime. Stop, Question, and Frisk helped cops approach and address suspicious characters and, if warranted, check them for illegal weapons. This nabbed some crooks and deterred others. Pinpointing crime hotspots and deploying cops accordingly slashed lawlessness. Go figure. Shifting cops from desks to foot patrols fostered visual enforcement, improved community relations, and encouraged citizens to say something if they saw something. These efforts were reinforced by lock-'em-up prosecutors, judged by no-nonsense jurists, and applauded by New Yorkers who, once again, enjoyed walking home without getting killed. Republicans have five weeks to remind voters that the mayhem devouring America's cities and suburbs is no accident. It flows downstream from public policies willfully inflicted by the criminal's best friend, today's Democrat Party. (COMMENT, BELOW) Insight Putin's phony vote By Jeff Jacoby Published Oct. 3, 2022 In a New York Times essay on Sept. 23, Sasha Vasilyuk wrote about her aunt and uncle in Donetsk, one of the Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine where a staged referendum on annexation was about to begin. Knowing the vote would be a sham, Vasilyuk's relatives told her they had no intention of taking part. "I don't know anyone who is planning to vote," said her aunt, "unless they come to our houses and force us at gunpoint." In the event, forcing Ukrainians to vote at gunpoint was precisely what the Russians did. Soldiers armed with Kalashnikov rifles, accompanied by someone with a portable ballot box, went door to door to ensure that residents cast a ballot. In the Russian-controlled city of Kherson, the referendum was conducted "under the muzzle of an automatic rifle," one resident told The Washington Post. "They ring the doorbell of apartments, knock down the doors of those who don't open them, and demand that people come out and put a mark that they agree to join the Russian Federation." In some places, residents had to vote in the open and place their ballots in see-through containers. The official outcome, announced Tuesday by Russia's state media, was a foregone conclusion: a landslide for annexation. In two of the four Russian-controlled regions, Donetsk and Luhansk, more than 98 percent of the ballots were in favor of joining Russia. In Zaporizhzhia, the vote in favor was 93 percent. In Kherson, 87 percent. ENJOY THIS ESSAYIST? Sign up for the daily JWR update. It's free. Just click here. include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/$theme/includes/sidebar.php"; ?> Sham elections are par for the course in Russia. Widespread fraud and ballot stuffing ensured a lopsided victory for Vladimir Putin's ruling party in last year's parliamentary vote, for example. And when Moscow has sought to enlarge its empire by force, the phony voting has long been accompanied by very real violence. In 2014, when a "referendum" on annexation was held in Russian-occupied Crimea, journalists witnessed dissenters getting beaten and threatened by pro-Kremlin thugs. The images of Ukrainians being forced to vote under the gaze of masked gunmen brought to mind a vivid description I heard as a college student from one of my instructors, an immigrant from Latvia. She described the vote organized by Moscow in 1940 to endorse her country's absorption into the Soviet Union, which had invaded Latvia a few weeks earlier. As professor Miller recounted it, the ballot, which was not secret, offered two options a big circle to mark Yes and a tiny one for No. Everyone understood what was expected of them. When one or two brave souls nevertheless voted No, they were dragged off and beaten. Time magazine reported at the time that Russia considered anyone failing to vote in the election a traitor who "may be shot in the back of the head." TASS, the Soviet news agency, reported that the vote in favor of annexation was 97.5 percent. The results were inadvertently announced in Moscow 12 hours before the ballots in Latvia were counted. The Soviet invasion and occupation of Latvia during World War II was also ratified via a staged referendum. Above: a Soviet-organized rally in Riga in 1940. Putin's flunkies didn't make the mistake of announcing the Ukraine results in advance, but it would have made no difference if they had. The outcome overwhelming support for Russian rule was prearranged, just as it had been in Crimea in 2014. What is the point of holding such obviously bogus elections? Apart from a few Russian client states, the world never recognized Putin's seizure of Crimea and will reject the latest referenda in eastern Ukraine. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed scorn for Putin's "diabolical scheme" to steal parts of Ukraine and said the United States would impose still more sanctions on Russia and its top officials. NATO's Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, calling "the sham referenda" organized by Russia "a blatant violation of international law," declared firmly: "These lands are Ukraine." include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/templates/double_ads.asp"; ?> The most popular explanation for Putin's fake votes is that they are meant to supply a veneer of legality to Moscow's occupation. In declaring the territories to now be part of Russia proper, Putin can claim that any attempt by Ukrainian forces to recapture them is an attack on Russia itself. He is likely to again play the nuclear card, perhaps with the goal of pressuring Ukraine and the West to end the fighting with a cease-fire that leaves the "annexed" regions in Moscow's hands. Still, why go through the charade of holding an election that no one considers legitimate? Why bother with a pretense that everyone sees through? I suggest two answers. One is that even the mere form of an election even the most superficial "democracy theater" conveys a patina of legitimacy that autocrats and dictators crave. However spurious the vote, however outrageous the conditions under which it is held, going through the motions of holding an election and casting ballots creates the illusion, or at least produces a whiff, of democracy. Over time, that illusion sticks. Landslide results, though utterly false, get reported as news by the media. The free world stoutly maintains that it will under no circumstances acknowledge such undemocratic maneuvers as lawful. Yet over time, despite itself, it does. The United States never formally recognized the Soviet annexation of Latvia and the other Baltic nations in 1940. But when those countries moved to reclaim their independence in 1990, Washington reacted at first not with full-throated encouragement but with a chilly aversion to disrupting the status quo. A second reason dictators continue to stage fake elections is that, counterintuitive as it may seem, they make autocratic regimes stronger. Political scientists Carl Henrik Knutsen, Havard Mokleiv Nygard, and Tore Wig have found that even sham elections enable dictatorships to "co-opt members of the opposition, for instance, or learn more about the strength of the opposition," as they wrote in 2017. "Elections also help dictators build a strong organizational apparatus and signal their strength to intimidate potential opponents." There may be no easy way to quell Putin's brutal aggression and cynical ruthlessness. For the United States and its allies, the wisest approach is to support Ukraine with steadfastness and fortitude. Western leaders should make a point of repeating at every opportunity that fraudulent elections will have no effect whatsoever and that all occupied Ukrainian land, Crimea included, must be disgorged by Moscow. In a "60 Minutes" interview recently, President Biden was asked how long American diplomatic and military support for Ukraine would continue. "As long as it takes," Biden said. Exactly right. Jeff Jacoby is a columnist for The Boston Globe, from which this is reprinted with permission." DANVILLE Three members of an Indiana family were killed in a two-vehicle traffic crash early Sunday evening in Vermilion County on their way home from the Charleston Speedway. Vermilion County Coroner Jane McFadden reported in a press release Monday afternoon that the two-vehicle crash on Catlin-Indianola Road in Indianola claimed the lives of husband and wife Lee J. Hall, 52, and Felisha J. Hall, 46; and their daughter, Madison G. Hall, 18; all of Oxford, Indiana. Charleston Speedway, located along Illinois Route 16 east of Charleston, mourned the loss of the Hall family in a post Sunday on its Facebook page. Lee Hall had competed in the Factory Stock Fall Nationals on Saturday at the Charleston Speedway. "Today we begin to mourn the loss of this family that occurred due to a tragic accident on their way home from the speedway last night. Our deepest sympathy to the family members left behind, including their racing family and friends. Pray for those that this news has hit the hardest, as we are all at a loss of words this morning," Charleston Speedway's post said. The speedway also asked the racing community to reflect on the great times they enjoyed with the Hall family and the memories they made. Coroner McFadden said her office, the Vermilion County Sheriffs Office, and the Illinois State Police are continuing to investigate the crash. The JG-TC has requested a copy of the crash report from the Vermilion County Sheriffs Office. EDELSTEIN Hiking through Singing Woods Nature Preserve on a windy, late-September day, the high-pitched creaks and squeaks of tree limbs rubbing together makes one wonder if thats how the area got its name. Another possible inspiration could be the birds that sing in the woods, especially in spring. About 175 species of birds have been identified in the preserve. I would love to say it (the name) is in honor of the wonderful birdsong, but the reality is much more mundane, said Mike Miller, environmental services supervisor for the Peoria Park District. The park happens to be on Singing Woods Road, so over the years we used to tell folks to meet us at the Singing Woods parcel. The name kind of stuck. The nature preserve is adjacent to the park districts Tawny Oaks Field Station, 715 S. Singing Woods Road, Edelstein. Tawny Oaks serves as a trailhead for the 5 miles of paths in the preserve. The visitors center, which has restroom facilities, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday from April through October. Trails are open daily year-round from dawn to dusk. Dogs are not allowed in the nature preserve. The 700-acre nature preserve has five different habitats. It offers wonderful woodland wildflowers in spring, a shady respite in summer and colorful foliage in autumn. If the beauty of the area doesnt take your breath away, the steepness of some sections of trail surely will. Be ready for a rugged walk, warns Miller, citing the numerous ups and downs on trails that take you in and out of gullies from creek beds to ridge tops. A trekking pole or hiking stick is definitely helpful. So are the many benches along the way, especially in those steep parts. Dont let the talk of steep trails deter you from visiting Tawny Oaks and Singing Woods. A half-mile accessible loop takes you around an 11-acre restored prairie. Formerly a hayfield, it was planted with 70 different prairie species in 2012 and now serves as a seed bank for other park district projects, said Miller. As we hiked around the prairie, monarchs and other butterflies fluttered around us along with bees, dragonflies and other insects. The endangered rusty-patch bumblebee has been found on this prairie, said Miller. In addition to the prairie loop, a portion of the Forest Trail, blue on park maps, provides a relatively flat, quarter-mile loop that gives you the flavor of Singing Woods, said Miller. The full-meal deal requires extra effort but is worth it. The trails are well marked, with maps and you are here symbols at each intersection. The perimeter trail has markers every quarter mile of its 4-mile length as you go counter-clockwise. It will give you an experience that youre going to be unlikely to find in Central Illinois, said Miller. You can really get the idea of what a huge, large tract of forest what it feels like to be in one. Singing Woods is one of a series of four nature preserves owned and managed by the park district along the bluffs overlooking the Illinois River. They protect more than 1,200 acres of forest. The upland oak-hickory forest stretching from Grandview Drive beyond Peoria County into Marshall and Bureau counties makes up one of the longest, contiguous tracts of oak woods left in the northern part of the state, north of the Shawnee National Forest. Among the highlights of Singing Woods this time of year are the fall colors. The woods include many species of oaks, including 300-year-old chinquapin oak trees on the Hill Prairie Trail, as well as shagbark hickories, cottonwoods and sassafras trees. Huge white oaks grow along the Skunk Cabbage Trail, green on the park map. A bench along the Hill Prairie Trail, white on the park map, provides an excellent vantage point on the south-facing slope from which you can see a great distance. The remnants of Hurricane Ian dumped more than 2 inches of rain and produced wind gusts as high as 45 mph in Forsyth County before moving northward out of the area Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. The most-severe conditions locally were between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Friday, when sustained winds of 25-30 mph and gusts in the 40-45 mph range were recorded at Smith Reynolds Airport. Gusts of at least 40 mph were reported for four consecutive hours. They topped 30 mph for nine hours straight. More than one-quarter of an inch of rain fell in the area between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, the most in any one-hour period. Across the city, wind-whipped trees weighed down by wet leaves toppled when their roots failed to hold in saturated soil. Several trees fell on houses, but no injuries were reported. Trees also took down power lines, leading to as many as 17,000 outages in Forsyth County Saturday, according to August Vernon, director of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Office of Emergency Management. That total was below 200 by Sunday evening, according to Duke Energy. Across North Carolina, workers had restored electricity to more than 1 million customers, the company said Sunday. Our crews are working as quickly as possible to safely restore power to all of our customers across the Carolinas, said Jason Hollifield, Duke Energys Carolinas storm director. We know there are pockets of hard-hit areas that will require more extensive work. More than 2,000 Duke customers in Raleigh and another 1,000 in Greensboro were still in the dark Sunday evening, although the company said power was expected to be restored for nearly everyone by midnight Monday. As of Sunday evening, at least four of the nearly 80 reported deaths linked to Ian were in North Carolina. After another wet, gloomy day Sunday, skies will begin clearing in the Triad Monday and stay that way at least through next weekend, the National Weather Service predicted. Highs in the upper 60s to low 70s, and overnight lows in the 40s are expected in the area for the coming week. Just five weeks until Nebraskans elect a new governor. Advantage: Jim Pillen. But you already knew that. Here's the secretary of state's September voter registration report for the state: 604,988 Republicans; 345,268 Democrats. Along with 268,291 non-partisans. There's a Republican voter registration advantage in 90 of 93 counties, all but Dakota, Douglas and Thurston. That represents a steeply uphill march for a statewide Democratic candidate today. It's a far distance from 2006 when Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson won reelection to a second Senate term after winning two terms as governor. Look at those Senate election results -- and the names of the candidates -- 16 years ago to see how dramatically things have changed: Nelson, 378,388; Republican nominee Pete Ricketts, 213,928. Pillen approaches the November match with Blood with a substantial campaign funding advantage along with a name recognition edge secured in the aftermath of an expensive, widely watched Republican primary battle in May. Sen. Carol Blood, the Democratic nominee, is battle-tested after six years in the Legislature, but her task is challenging. Democrats appear to be competitive in two congressional races this November and that conceivably could give Blood somewhat of a hidden boost along the way, but Nebraskans essentially have been choosing their governors and U.S. senators in the Republican primary election for the last few decades. It's been 28 years since Democrats won a gubernatorial contest in Nebraska. That would have been Ben Nelson's reelection to a second term in 1994. "Long time passing," Pete Seeger might say. "Long time ago." * * * A couple of competitive congressional contests are crowding into the spotlight this election year. Metropolitan Omaha's 2nd District House seat is always up for grabs. Republican Rep. Don Bacon is matched against state Sen. Tony Vargas, the Democratic nominee, in November. But eastern Nebraska's reapportioned 1st District with its competing combination of Lincoln's urban vote and the vote in 11 rural counties -- which include the communities of Norfolk, Fremont, Columbus and Bellevue -- has also become a more competitive battleground now. Results of the June special election to fill Jeff Fortenberry's seat following his resignation demonstrated that. Republican nominee Mike Flood defeated Democratic nominee Patty Pansing Brooks by 6,234 votes, losing Lincoln-Lancaster County by 10,000 votes while romping to victory elsewhere, although the Sarpy County vote was close. Republicans hold a voter registration advantage in the district exceeding 67,000. The strong showing by Pansing Brooks in June came days after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that erased abortion rights previously guaranteed in the court's Roe v. Wade decision in 1973 and that became the focal point of Pansing Brooks' final argument centering on a woman's right to choose. If Flood wins the rematch, history suggests he'll be the 1st District congressman for as long as he chooses -- although a U.S. Senate seat could open up before this decade is done. Fortenberry was reelected to the House eight times before he resigned; his predecessor, Doug Bereuter, was reelected a dozen times before he left to become president and CEO of the Asia Foundation. * * * Finishing up: * Unrest in Russia: Protests, dissent, open acts of rebellion against the mobilization of Russian men to fight in Ukraine, an accompanying exodus of fighting-age men from the country, Putin talking nuclear weapons. What comes next? * And, in our country, Donald Trump suggests that Mitch McConnell "has a death wish" after the Republican Senate leader agrees to fund the federal government through December. What comes next? * Here comes October, bright yellow, orange and red beneath a blue canopy dotted with billowing white clouds. It's showtime in Nebraska. * Hey, it's simple, just hand Aaron Judge a contract, tell him to fill in the blank and name him Yankee team captain, assuming the role that has been vacant since Derek Jeter left. How hard is that? * Huskers looked hungry and all-in on Saturday night. Agility, a supply chain services leader, will invest $60 million to build a 100,000 sq m customs and logistics centre in the industrial zone in Ein Sokhna in Egypt and another 100,000 sq m customs and logistics centre in East Port Said. The project will be implemented during the second half of 2023. For this the Suez Canal Economic Zone has signed a contract with Agility at the Egyptian-Kuwaiti Economic Forum in the presence of Walid Gamal El-Din, Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), and Tarek Sultan, Vice Chairman of Agility. Agility will work with SCZone to implement its strategic vision in the areas of services, logistics, and industrial zone support by establishing a technical and logistical arm that will automate customs processes and operations in the SCZone. Logistics hub The automation piece will link the SCZones customs departments and relevant government agencies concerned with inspection work. The project, intended to turn the zone into a global logistics hub, will improve the flow of goods and commodities and bring efficiency and lower costs to international companies and investors operating there. El-Din said: The signing of this contract today with Agility, a leader in customs modernisation, is consistent with the Suez Canal Authoritys strategic plan 2020/2025, which aims to create an enticing investment environment and further one of Egypts key development goals, which is to create job opportunities through integrated, sustainable economic growth. This agreement will enable the Suez Canal Authority to improve visibility over inbound materials and finished goods and enhance efficiency through a single-window customs platform. The result will be increased commercial activity, quicker release of cargo and better overall operations. El-Din added: This agreement comes in line with the States policies in developing the customs clearance services by building an integrated and automated system that raises overall efficiency of customs operations, reducing accumulation of shipments and goods, while providing the best services possible to investors. This in addition to the facilitated coordination and integration between the Ministry of Finance, tax and customs authorities as well as other government bodies with the economic zone. Economic leader Sultan said Egypt plays a vital role in global and regional trade. He said the ambitious modernisation project, along with the other strategic development efforts undertaken by the government, demonstrate the countrys determination to be an economic leader in the future. By developing and modernising the customs and logistics center, the SCZone and the Egyptian government are positioning Egypt to be the one of the worlds most advanced operators and an indispensable 21st century trade partner for Mena, Asia and Europe, Sultan said. "Companies with a presence in the Suez Canal Economic Zone will have access to the worlds best logistics infrastructure and services. They will be situated at the trade crossroads of the world, amid the fastest-growing markets.-- TradeArabia News Service More than three days after a welfare check led police to a homicide at a house in northeast Lincoln on Thursday, authorities on Monday identified the man killed as Robert Aguirre. Police found the Lincoln man dead at about 2:45 p.m. Thursday after a woman called and reported there was a deceased man in the house near 65th Street and Madison Avenue, Lincoln Police Capt. Todd Kocian said. When officers arrived, they found Aguirre dead in the bathtub, with wet blankets and carpet covering him and "a strong odor of a chemical agent" inside the house, Investigator Michael Ripley said in an arrest affidavit. Also at the residence was 35-year-old Joshua Larsen, Aguirre's intimate partner who was later charged with manslaughter, first-degree domestic assault and terroristic threats in the 48-year-old's death. Police believe Aguirre had been dead since Sept. 26, three days before officers were sent to the house, Ripley said in the affidavit for Larsen's arrest. Larsen had gone to the house which both men listed as their address in court records in the early morning hours of Sept. 26 in an attempt to buy drugs for the woman who later reported the killing, but Aguirre wouldn't sell him any, fearing he was being set up, Ripley said. So Larsen left. But when he came back a short time later, police believe an argument between the men devolved into a fistfight, during which Larsen choked Aguirre until he fell unconscious, Ripley said. Aguirre never regained consciousness. Police noted Larsen had defensive injuries and bruises on his arms. In the days between the fight and the police report, Ripley alleged that Larsen moved Aguirre's body to the bathtub and used Clorox to clean the scene. Aguirre's death marked the 11th killing in Lancaster County this year and the ninth to occur within city limits. There were eight killings in the county in all of 2021 all of which occurred in Lincoln. Austin Gress, 26, was stabbed to death July 1 amid what police said was "somewhat of a mutual fight" at a gas station near 27th and Dudley streets. Police later arrested and charged Steven A. Alexander with manslaughter, first-degree assault and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony after a three-day manhunt in Lincoln. Prosecutors charged William T. Wright with second-degree murder in the death of George and Patz. Nebraska Beef Ltd. has entered an agreement with federal prosecutors on allegations the company misrepresented beef grading records. The Omaha meat processing company is pleading guilty and agreed to a $200,000 fine, according to the plea agreement filed in September in U.S. District Court in Omaha. The case comes on the heels of cases filed against two former employees Dolese Tippery, an accountant, and chief financial officer, James Timmerman who both got probation and $1,000 fines earlier this year for making false representations of inspection and grading of agricultural products. In the plea agreement in the new case, Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Kleine said on June 3, 2016, Nebraska Beef was served with a grand jury subpoena and ordered to produce grading records for 30 carcasses of beef. He said a corporate officer altered the grading records before providing them to the company's attorneys five days later, who in turn provided them to the U.S. Attorney's Office and the grand jury. In Tippery's case, Kleine said on June 3, 2016, USDA Agricultural Market Service graders visited the company for an inspection and found at least 30 carcasses of beef ungradable and designated them No-Roll because of their age. But they later found the carcasses with what appeared to be USDA ink stamps designating them as Prime grade. In Tippery's plea agreement, prosecutors said as early as 2012, boxes of beef processed at the main plant would be labeled initially with the correct grade, such as No-Roll and Select, then transported to an off-site warehouse, where employees "would remove original labels on the boxes of beef and replace them with higher-grade labels such as Choice and Prime. The relabeled product was then returned to the food-processing company and put into inventory." Kleine said Timmerman altered the records and Tippery, knowing that the relabeling was occurring, created false internal records to conceal the scheme. Joshua Weir, Nebraska Beef's attorney, said the law provides that a company must accept responsibility for the acts of its employees, even when the acts are contrary to the employers instructions or against the corporations policies. He said a former employee has said he misreported industry information to the government in 2016. "The former employee took this action unilaterally. The information was technical in nature and there was no economic or any other consequence of any type to any party. The negotiated agreement between the company and the government resolves all issues related to the case," Weir said. At sentencing in November, the company faces up to five years of probation in addition to the fine, the max on the charge. Republican Rep. Mike Flood and Democratic congressional nominee Patty Pansing Brooks hammered away Sunday night at their differences with Flood suggesting that his opponent would be "a Pelosi puppet" if she were to be elected to the House while Pansing Brooks asked voters "who can you trust" on reproductive rights and other hot button issues. "This (election) is about our freedoms, the freedom to say the things that we want, to marry who we want, to make our own health care choices," Pansing Brooks said in her post-debate comments. Meanwhile, Flood said he is being misrepresented by his opponent, particularly when it came to his stance on a birth control bill he voted against. He said he voted against it because the bill would have forgone the monthly requirements mandating doctor visits before being prescribed birth control pills. "Characterizing my vote as against birth control is not accurate at all," he said. The two candidates for eastern Nebraska's 1st District House seat clashed on contentious issues like gun control, immigration, border security and Nebraska's proposed voter ID ballot initiative during an hourlong televised debate aired on KLKN in Lincoln. It was the second and final debate between the two candidates before voters pick the winner in the November election five weeks from now. Flood defeated Pansing Brooks in a special election on June 28 to choose a House member to serve the remaining six months of former Republican Rep. Jeff Fortenberry's term after he resigned following conviction on charges that he lied to federal officials about illegal foreign contributions to his 2016 reelection campaign. The winner of the November contest will fill the next two-year term representing a district that includes Lincoln, Norfolk, Fremont, Columbus and Bellevue. Flood, who was a state senator from Norfolk before he moved on to a seat in the House, said Pansing Brooks, who is completing her second and final term as a Lincoln state senator, compiled "a left-wing, liberal record" as a member of the Legislature. And, he said, she would follow the dictates of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi if she were to be elected to the House. Pansing Brooks suggested that she would be the 1st District House member that women, students, teachers and police could trust. "Which Mike Flood do we have now?" she asked, comparing his record as a member of the nonpartisan Legislature with his position on current issues in the House. Flood said his opponent voted to increase taxes and supported reductions in prison time as a member of the Legislature. The congressman said he would continue to support efforts to control "excessive, reckless and dangerous" federal spending as a member of the House. The two candidates agreed on the need to support efforts to increase workforce development in Nebraska and to protect Social Security and Medicare. Asked directly who won the 2020 presidential election, Pansing Brooks said Democratic nominee Joe Biden was the winner over then-President Donald Trump, and Flood said he believes Biden was "duly elected." Most of the answers to questions posed by KLKN news anchor Rod Fowler during the debate broadcast live from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus restated previous positions taken by the two candidates. Flood argued for controlled federal spending along with efforts to center on energy independence. Pansing Brooks said the ballot initiative proposing new voter ID requirements for Nebraska voters would make it more difficult for some Nebraskans, including minority citizens, seniors and the disabled, to cast votes and is not needed in view of no evidence of voter fraud in the state's elections. Flood said he supports the proposal because it would result in more confidence in the state's election system. Flood cited the need for more control of the southern border with Mexico while Pansing Brooks suggested that immigration reform should accompany efforts to make the border more secure. Both candidates expressed support for continued U.S. military arms assistance for Ukraine in its battle against Russian invaders. "We should not be marching in lockstep with either party," Pansing Brooks said. Journal Star reporter Damon Bennett contributed to this story. BELLEVUE The lesser-known half of the force that keeps things running smoothly at Offutt Air Force Base is doubling in size. The 170th Group of the Nebraska Air National Guard is in the process of doubling its personnel numbers after an expansion of the unit was approved in April, according to officials. The expansion was formally announced at an event Sept. 10, during which Gov. Pete Ricketts and U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., stressed the importance of the partnership between the 170th Group and the Offutt-based 55th Wing. The 170th Group has been stationed at Offutt since 2002. It assists the Air Forces 55th Wing through a combat training squadron and an operations support squadron. With the expansion, the group already has added about 81 workers in the newly created maintenance support and intelligence support squadrons. Within the next couple of years, officials hope to further grow staff numbers, said Col. Wendy Squarcia, commander of the 170th Group. The 55th Wing saw that that relationship and that partnership worked so well, so they said, How can we have more of that? Squarcia said. Squarcia has been with the 170th Group since 2007 and at Offutt since 2002. She said she's excited to see the expansion get off the ground after nearly 10 years of work. All of a sudden, all of that blood, sweat and tears is finally coming into this being a reality, Squarcia said. I remember jumping out of bed on April 2 like, Oh, my God, this is happening. Both new squadrons are in the process of hiring a mix of civilians, existing Air National Guard members and retired Air Force personnel, the squadrons commanders said. The new roles include a mix of part-time and full-time positions. The members of the 170th Groups new squadron will support the 55th Wings maintenance group, going through the same training as the Air Force members, said Lt. Col. Sam Schneider, the squadrons commander. While active duty Air Force members come and go, members of the maintenance support squadron will act almost as a shock absorber, Schneider said. We can provide continuity in between different active duty members, so the knowledge level stays here, Schneider said. The new intelligence support squadron will assist the 55th Wing squadron of the same purpose, said Lt. Col. Travis Degen, the 170th Group squadrons commander. The squadrons creation makes the 170th Group one of the first in the nation to hire linguists, Degen said. Hiring many part-time personnel means being able to bring on people with a variety of experience levels and with a variety of different day jobs, he said. We want a good balance of experience, Degen said. Broadly, recruitment has been a challenge for the U.S. military. A perfect storm of economic, demographic and medical factors has contributed to a sudden downturn in recruiting that has been further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Omaha World-Herald reported earlier this year. Amid those struggles, however, the Nebraska Air National Guard has proved a rare bright spot, and officials have credited the presence of Offutt as a key factor in helping the Air National Guard hit recruitment goals. For retired Air Force personnel, the Nebraska Air National Guard can be a convenient next step, Squarcia said. Some of them get tired of moving their family every two to three years, she said. So being able to continue to serve their country here, we can keep that continuity and expertise here. Leaders of the 170th Group said they are confident that the Air National Guards presence at Offutt is set to grow. Once people see that this can actually happen and this is a reality, I only believe that we will continue to expand into other areas here in the 55th Wing in the future, Squarcia said. OMAHA Nebraska has joined a lawsuit accusing pesticide companies Syngenta and Corteva of anti-competitive practices that have cost farmers. Nebraska joined the Federal Trade Commission and nine other states, including Iowa, in a complaint that was filed in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina on Thursday. The complaint alleges that U.S. farmers have collectively lost millions of dollars because Syngenta and Corteva have unfairly impeded their generic competitors and artificially inflated prices. The companies artificially inflated prices by creating loyalty programs with pesticide distributors that have made it harder for farmers to access lower-priced generic products, the lawsuit alleges. While generic companies are allowed to enter the market using the same active ingredients after patent-related exclusivity protections expire, the lawsuit alleges that Syngenta and Corteva made incentive payments to pesticide distributors in exchange for distributors to not buy or buy significantly lower amounts of generic products. Through deals with distributors, the two companies essentially created a monopoly on sales of certain pesticides, the lawsuit states. The lawsuit alleges that Syngenta and Corteva broke multiple state and federal laws, including the FTC Act and the Clayton Act. Nebraska specifically accuses the companies of violating the Nebraska Consumer Protection Act. The lawsuit asks for monetary relief, including for farmers in Nebraska, according to State Attorney General Doug Peterson. The suit also seeks an end to the loyalty programs. Both companies said the allegations in the lawsuit are false. In a statement, Corteva said it believes the FTCs case faces significant hurdles on both the facts and the law, and claimed that the companys marketing programs actually support competition. We will vigorously defend our position that Cortevas customer marketing programs are fully compliant with the antitrust laws and are, in fact, pro-competitive programs that benefit both channel partners and farmers, the statement read. Syngenta said in a statement that it believes the FTCs complaint is without merit and that the discounts in question are part of an industry-standard, voluntary program that Syngenta and other pesticide companies have had in place for decades. This program is only one of several incentive programs offered by Syngenta in the U.S., and we are disappointed that the FTC has failed to appreciate the beneficial effects that these rebate programs provide to our channel partners and to growers, the statement read. In addition to Nebraska and Iowa, the other states named in the lawsuit are California, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Oregon, Texas and Wisconsin. Nebraska officials are predicting that a controversial new Alzheimers drug could drive up state Medicaid costs by more than $16 million annually. That includes the cost of the drug, Aduhelm, plus monthly intravenous infusions used to deliver the drug and the regular laboratory tests and brain scans needed to monitor its effects. The cost of covering Aduhelm is among several issues listed in the Department of Health and Human Services budget request for the two-year period ending June 30, 2025. The submission of agency budget requests to the Governors Office kicked off the months-long process of crafting a new state budget. While the $16 million request pales in comparison to the $2.5 billion annual cost of Nebraska Medicaid, the budget impact would be larger than the $15 million requested for the first year of HHS salary increases or the $11.9 million requested to serve 250 Nebraskans with developmental disabilities on the states waiting list. According to the HHS request, state tax dollars would cover nearly $7 million of the cost, with the remaining $9 million coming from federal funds. The federal Food and Drug Administration approved Aduhelm, the brand name for aducanumab, in June 2021. The drug is the first new Alzheimers drug approved in two decades and the first of a class of medications targeting the amyloid plaques that develop in the brains of Alzheimers patients. The decision proved immediately controversial. Clinical trials showed that the drug reduced amyloid in the brain, which the FDA said is reasonably likely to slow the progression of the disease in Alzheimers patients. This could mean more time for individuals to actively participate in daily life, have sustained independence and hold on to memories longer, said Angel Horton Frank, a spokeswoman for the Alzheimers Association of Nebraska. Critics said the drug showed only mixed benefits in clinical trials leading up to the FDA decision, despite an initial price tag of $56,000 a year. Biogen, the drugs manufacturer, has since cut the cost to about $28,200 a year. Critics also pointed out that the drug was approved through an accelerated FDA process. In January, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced that Medicare would cover Aduhelm only for people who get it through a clinical trial. That decision came as several private insurers announced that they would not cover the drug, labeling it experimental. Federal law, however, requires Medicaid programs to cover nearly all FDA-approved drugs. As a result, the decision to sharply limit Medicare coverage of Aduhelm means the full cost of the drug and associated care will fall on Medicaid for qualifying patients. Medicare is a federal health program for people 65 and older or with disabilities. Medicaid is a state-federal program for low-income people. For low-income seniors, Medicaid pays what Medicare does not. Frank, the state Alzheimers Association spokeswoman, said the organization believes Medicaid should cover aducanumab. Americans living with Alzheimers disease are entitled to access FDA-approved therapies, just as are people with conditions like cancer, heart disease and HIV/AIDS, she said. The Alzheimers Association estimates that more than 35,000 people in Nebraska have Alzheimers or dementia, out of some 6 million people nationwide. Its unclear whether anyone in Nebraska has started using the drug. Nationally, doctors have been reluctant to prescribe it. Frank referred that question to Dr. Daniel Murman, director of the University of Nebraska Medical Centers memory disorders and behavioral neurology program. He said he has no patients getting the drug currently because of its cost and the lack of insurance coverage. But he said the medical center will be part of a clinical trial of Aduhelm for people at early stages of the disease, making it possible for participants to qualify for Medicare coverage. Murman expressed hope about the potential for drugs like aducanumab. Just this week, drugmakers Eisai and Biogen reported that a medication called lecanemab had slowed clinical decline in Alzheimers patients by 27% in clinical trials when compared with a placebo. Similar drugs are in varying stages of development. I am optimistic that this treatment approach will be an important breakthrough in the treatment of patients with Alzheimers disease who are at the earliest stages of their disease and if clinical benefits are confirmed, then this class of medications should be covered by Medicaid and other payers, Murman said. A volunteer firefighter has died while fighting a large wildfire in central Nebraska that destroyed much of a youth camp and led officials to evacuate a nearby village. Region 26 Emergency Management reported that Mike Moody, assistant chief of the Purdum Volunteer Fire Department, "succumbed to a medical emergency" while fighting the fire in the Nebraska National Forest near Halsey on Sunday. Moody, 59, had served with the department for more than 40 years and had previously been its chief, according to a news release from the agency, which coordinates emergency response efforts in Blaine, Garfield, Greeley, Loup, Sherman, Thomas, Valley and Wheeler counties. Moody was among the initial responders to the Bovee Fire that was reported just after 1:30 p.m. Sunday. The number of those battling the blaze was more than 100 firefighters by Monday. The fire quickly grew from just a few hundred acres to more than 15,000, pushing up to 15 miles to the north of the forest, driven by gusty winds and aided by dry brush, according to officials from the U.S. Forest Service. Officials also evacuated the village of Halsey, which is home to about 65 people. The agency said in a news release that its employees and local firefighters were able to protect the historic Bessey Nursery and CCC Campground from the fire. Unfortunately, the Nebraska State 4-H Camp was not so lucky. Its lodge, cabins and the Scott Lookout Tower were all destroyed. "We have received word that forest fire in the Nebraska National Forest caused major devastation at our camp," said a post on the camp's Facebook account. "The Eppley lodge, as well as the cabins, are a complete loss; it appears that the only structure remaining is the staff house. All of those on site were safely evacuated. We will share more details as we get more of the facts. Our thoughts are with all who are in the area." Firefighters fighting the blaze were aided by air tankers that dropped fire retardant on the fire Sunday. We had a good night last night and made a lot of progress on the east and north, incident commander Brian Daunt said in a news release. Todays focus is going to be holding those lines, and constructing line to the west of the fire. The fire as of Monday afternoon was 30% contained, a Forest Service spokesman said. Nebraska 2, which had been closed in both directions between Thedford and Halsey, had reopened as of late Monday morning, but the Bessey Ranger District area of the forest, where the fire began, remains closed to the public. The Forest Service originally said in social media posts that the fire was "likely human-caused," but in its Monday update, said the cause was still under investigation. The fire is one of several large wildfires in the state this year that have been driven by drought. Thomas County, where the fire is located, was completely in severe drought, according to the most recent Drought Monitor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Tristain Thomas remembers seeing plenty of reckless driving while living along Milwaukees West Fond du Lac Avenue during his childhood. A police officer would park just blocks away from Thomas home in the Grasslyn Manor neighborhood to catch drivers barreling down the four-lane state highway. He would sit there for eight to 10 hours every day, pulling people over constantly, because theyre just flying down the street with no regard for anyone else, Thomas, 40, recalled. Thomas now lives in Appleton, Wisconsin, but the reckless driving hasnt stopped along West Fond du Lac Avenue, which doubles as State Highway 145 as it runs through Milwaukee. Thomas lost his sister because of it. On the morning of March 12, Dwynetta Thomas, of Sheboygan, was driving down the urban highway and tried to turn left onto Congress Street roughly a mile from her and Tristains childhood home. Thats when a silver Volvo slammed into Dwynettas red Chevrolet Cobalt, killing her. Speed appeared to be a factor, according to the crash report, and the Volvos driver, who suffered minor injuries, was charged with driving with a revoked license and causing a death. She did so much for so many people, Tristain said of his 43-year-old sister. The day she was killed she was actually dropping someone off at a store. So I think its apropos that she was out helping someone and then that happened. She was definitely loved. At least 397 people have died on Wisconsins roads and highways in 2022 as of Sept. 11, according to preliminary data from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Thats more than the 388 fatalities logged at that point in 2021, which was the deadliest year on Wisconsins roads since 2017. Reckless driving disproportionately affects Black residents in the deeply segregated state particularly in Milwaukee. Connecting highways eyed Although much of Tristains family has left Milwaukee, they continue to discuss how to make Fond du Lac Avenue safer. Aside from wanting stiffer penalties for reckless drivers which is part of Mayor Cavalier Johnsons road safety initiatives Tristain wonders why Fond du Lac Avenue hasnt been redesigned to prioritize safety, and why it looks exactly the same as it did in his youth. I know they have design changes downtown where theyre going to make it more bicycle-friendly and pedestrian-friendly, he said. And Im like: Cool, great. Do the same thing for Fond du Lac. Do the same thing for Capitol, where its actually needed. Capitol Drive is another state highway cutting through the citys northwest side. As traffic deaths mount in Wisconsin, officials in Milwaukee, Madison and other cities are having similar discussions. Cities are taking multi-pronged approaches to making roads safer for the motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists who share them. That includes lowering speed limits, tightening enforcement and reengineering roads. But their options are limited on what WisDOT calls connecting highways like Fond du Lac Avenue and Capitol Drive state highways that run through towns and cities that can be particularly dangerous. On state highways, including urban stretches, WisDOT gets the final say on any plans to narrow lanes, add concrete bump-outs to protect pedestrians or add other traffic-calming infrastructure. But WisDOT largely prioritizes smoothly flowing traffic for drivers. That focus complicates efforts to bolster safety in the neighborhoods that drivers speed through, according to city officials and grassroots advocates. Fond du Lac Avenue runs northwest from downtown Milwaukee. Capitol Drive, part of State Highway 190, runs east-west and intersects with Fond du Lac Avenue. At least 42 people, including Dwynetta Thomas, died in traffic collisions along the two Milwaukee highway stretches from January 2017 to July 2022, according to a WPR/Wisconsin Watch analysis of preliminary police crash reports compiled by WisDOT and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Thats about 11% of the city of Milwaukees 381 total traffic fatalities during that period. The analysis did not include more recent crashes on Fond du Lac Avenue that killed a 71-year-old driver and a 36-year-old pedestrian, according to media reports. In 2017, 18 of Milwaukees 25 most crash-prone intersections (72%) sat on or near connecting highways. Of those top 25 high-crash intersections, 16 were on or near Fond du Lac Avenue or Capitol Drive, according to a report by the city Department of Public Works and Police Department. Jordan Morales, vice president of the Sherman Park Community Association, has become one of Milwaukees loudest proponents of safer streets out of concern for his five children. He said state bureaucracy has stymied solutions along Capitol Drive and Fond du Lac Avenue, which he calls Milwaukees most deadly corridors. Getting state funds or permission to calm traffic on the corridor is difficult, Morales said. That is definitely a huge challenge that we have with reducing fatal car crashes in the city. A mismatch between WisDOTs car-centric priorities and the diverse transportation needs of residents in cities persists statewide, said Gregg May, transportation policy director for the transportation and environmental advocacy group 1000 Friends of Wisconsin. Its one of the big challenges we face as biking, walking and transit advocates, May said. The DOT has their own set of priorities, which can run counter to the adjacent communities to which these urban highways run. Its an incredible challenge, trying to get them to think differently about implementing more walking, biking and safety options. Stephen Flottmeyer is the planning chief for WisDOTs southwestern region. He said the agency considers the needs of all road users when weighing new projects, and it often follows the lead of local transportation agencies. He said the department recognizes the competing needs between road users along connecting highways. But he acknowledges WisDOT typically approaches rural and urban highways with the same set of goals, including traffic flow. The only difference, within the connecting highways, is the city plays a much bigger part in the conversation, Flottmeyer said. City-state collaborations Johnson represented parts of Milwaukees northwest side on the citys Common Council before being sworn in as mayor in December 2021. He said traffic and unsafe driving conditions on Capitol Drive kept constituents south of the highway from crossing over to shop at the Midtown Center Pick n Save effectively limiting their grocery options. Thats unacceptable, Johnson told WPR and Wisconsin Watch. One of Johnsons first acts as mayor included declaring reckless driving a public safety crisis and releasing a plan that includes redesigning roads, increasing enforcement and penalties and towing unregistered vehicles linked to reckless driving. This summer, the city began an initiative to sue repeat reckless driving offenders. He built upon Milwaukees Complete Streets framework, which details how city officials should balance the needs of cyclists, motorists and pedestrians. But many of those plans depend upon collaboration with WisDOT, Johnson said. He adds that the state agency has supported the anti-reckless driving push and is allowing the city to add concrete bumps outs curb extensions into parking lanes to narrow pedestrian crossings along connecting highways. The bump-outs also prevent drivers from veering into parking lanes to pass cars on the right a dangerous maneuver that some call the Milwaukee Slide. WisDOT also permitted the city to build concrete refuge islands to help pedestrians safely cross one short stretch of Fond du Lac Avenue. Weve got to work to make sure the environment is safe for all users of the roadways, especially folks in their own neighborhoods who are simply trying to go to the store, drop their kids off at school or get their prescription drugs, Johnson said. Jerrel Kruschke, Milwaukees interim commissioner of public works, said the city-state collaboration has been going in the right direction over the past few years with WisDOT starting to understand the needs that we have in the city. Still, strict WisDOT guidelines have blocked more ambitious city efforts to slow down traffic by narrowing or eliminating some lanes on connecting highways, Kruschke said. The process unfolds as a negotiation in which Milwaukees Complete Streets framework often conflicts with state standards. WisDOTs approach works more smoothly in rural communities where motorists alone use the road, said Chris McCahill, managing director of the State Smart Transportation Initiative, a project of the UW-Madison and Smart Growth America that connects state transportation departments. Urban highways are trickier as bicyclists and pedestrians share space with drivers trying to get across town quickly. Traditionally, theyre (WisDOT) highway builders, and theyre good at that. Then you have folks coming from a city perspective, or a town perspective, whose interests are often the complete opposite of that, said McCahill, who is also a member of Madisons Transportation Policy and Planning Board. Compromising in Madison In Madison, WisDOT approved lower speed limits in 2020 along East Washington Avenue, a portion of State Highway 151 that cuts through the isthmus and is popular for drag racers. The change dropped the speed limit to 25 miles per hour in some parts of the East Wash, down from 35 mph. From January 2017 to July 2022, seven of Madisons 61 traffic fatalities (11%) occurred on the connecting highway portion of East Washington, and 18 deaths (nearly 30%) occurred across all connecting highways in the city. In 2020, nine of Madisons 25 highest-crash intersections (36%) sat on or near a connecting highway, according to a report by the citys Traffic Engineering Division. WisDOTs lane restrictions require Madison to compromise as it prepares to launch its east-west Bus Rapid Transit line along the state highway. The state will allow for designated bus lanes, but only if general traffic can use them during rush hour to reduce congestion, said Tom Lynch, Madisons transportation director. We probably would have preferred to have kept the bus lanes during the rush hour, Lynch said. But this is one of the compromises we made so that we could use East Washington for Bus Rapid Transit. City leaders have pitched the rapid transit line as a major tool to combat traffic congestion in fast-growing Madison. Any significant shift from cars to bus traffic could limit road fatalities. In 2020, the national death rate per 100 million passenger miles was 28 times higher for car occupants than bus riders, according to data compiled by the National Safety Council, a nonprofit advocacy group. Call for more resident input In seeking to discourage reckless driving along state highways, governments should prioritize the needs of residents most impacted, said Jake Newborn, assistant director of the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin. That would include making public meetings more accessible, he said. While Milwaukees alders accept emailed comments on traffic concerns and new transportation projects at any hour, the Common Council and its committees typically hold meetings on weekday mornings and afternoons when most people are at work. Madisons Common Council has similar practices, although its meetings typically happen during the evening, after many people get off work. WisDOT has detailed standards for public engagement on its projects, and the department recommends holding public involvement meetings during evening hours to avoid work conflicts with community members. But Newborn said it often feels like state and local officials dont actually take the communitys input into account. Theyre run in a fashion that is meant, I believe, to get limited actual engagement from people, Newborn said of the meetings. We do these stakeholder and public input meetings and then they just go and do what they were going to do anyway. And how much of that input is actually taken into account? The Milwaukee Common Council has approved rebuilding a 0.6-mile portion of Fond du Lac Avenue. The current plan doesnt call for major design updates, David Tapia, a city Department of Public Works project manager, told the public works committee in September. But the project will include a public comment period that could influence the result Ald. Russell Stamper told the committee that his constituents along that highway stretch want safety improvements. Construction is tentatively planned for 2026. A gigantic loss for our family Meanwhile, Tristain Thomas family continues to grieve Dwynettas death. Its still incredibly hard to believe she isnt here, he said. Well have a messenger call where everybodys got their video cameras on, and were looking at each other, and youre waiting for her to come one and its like, Oh, shes not. Shes not coming on anymore. DaJohn Norwood, the driver who crashed into Dwynetta Thomas, was arrested and charged with knowingly operating a vehicle without a license, causing death. Norwood was also pulled over in 2021 while operating without a license, according to a criminal complaint. A judge accepted his guilty plea, and his sentencing hearing is scheduled for November. Dwynetta is survived by her adult son and daughter and four siblings, including Tristain. Its a gigantic loss for our family. Its a gigantic loss for the community she served, Tristain said. And we just have to make sure nobody elses bright light gets snuffed out. Commvault, a global enterprise leader in data management, will present cyber deception services and the next evolution of its Metallic Cloud Storage Service and its HyperScale X appliance at Gitex 2022. Fady Richmany, Commvault's Regional Vice President South Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa (SEEMEA), said: "We are excited to be taking part in of one of the most prestigious events dedicated to technology in the world. With over 1,000 exhibitors registered, the event is an ideal platform to extend our regional and global reach and directly showcase the capabilities of our solutions to stakeholders, key customers and partners. Data protection and data management has never been more critical and it is vital that businesses see the necessary benefits of adopting modern solutions to drive efficiency and greater cyber security for their operations. New appointment Commvault also recently announced that Yahya Kassab has been appointed as Senior Director & General Manager, GCC & Pakistan region. Kassab will be responsible for driving business growth, building new customer relationships and accelerating the company's sales trajectory and go-to-market motion to expand Commvault's market share across the region. He will also be joining the local team at Gitex in October. "I am excited to join Commvault, a recognised leader in the industry with its award-winning intelligent data management solutions, at such an exciting time for the company in the GCC & Pakistan region, as well as internationally. I look forward to engaging closely with our customers, partners and prospects during Gitex and beyond as on their journey to the cloud with our enterprise-grade, Software-as-a-Service solution, Metallic. I can't wait to start with such a great and talented team," said Kassab. Commvault has an extensive customer and partner community across the region, including Government and Municipalities in UAE, as well as leading players in regional Telco, Finance, Government and Educations sectors. Many of whom will be participating in Gitex, including strategic partner G42 Cloud, who joined forces with Commvault just over three months ago. RACINE What are Democrats focusing on? Abortion. Particularly, making the public aware of what they see as Republican candidates anti-abortion stances. On Monday, both Planned Parenthood and Democratic Senate candidate Mandela Barnes launched advertisements focused on Republican incumbent Sen. Ron Johnsons pro-life position on abortion; Johnson supported the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and also co-sponsored a bill in 2011 that includes no exceptions to abortion bans. Conservative ads have largely avoided the abortion issue, but focus on public safety, hammering Lt. Gov. Barnes and incumbent Democratic Gov. Tony Evers on rising violent crime in Wisconsin. Law enforcement organizations have overwhelmingly endorsed Republicans over Democrats in Wisconsin this year. Also on Monday, Barnes made stops in the Racine area, including showing for unionized employees on Durand Avenue in Mount Pleasant outside CNH Industrial from where local workers have been on strike since May 2. There is no end in sight for the strike that is now entering its sixth month. Barnes has tried to position himself as a pro-labor choice, repeatedly saying in advertisements that his father, Jesse, worked third-shift; Barnes is endorsed by UAW (United Auto Workers) Wisconsin, the union that CNH workers are organized under. Jesse joined his son on the picket line Monday. Johnson has been endorsed by Associated Builders & Contractors, National Federation of Independent Business and the pro-free market Campaign for Working Families political action committee. Later Monday afternoon, Barnes rallied with Moms For Mandela supporters at Littleport Brewing Co., 214 Third Street, for an event that was part of the Ron Against Roe campaign tour. Littleport is becoming a hub for political events led by Democrats, having hosted Evers earlier in the campaign. Mondays event was hosted by Moms for Mandela. All of Wisconsins statewide elections this year are considered toss-ups: between Tim Michels and Evers for governor, Johnson against Barnes for Senate, Republican Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney seeking to unseat Democratic incumbent Attorney General Josh Kaul, long-time incumbent Democratic Secretary of State Doug La Follette seeking to stave off a challenge from Republican Amy Lynn Loudenbeck, and Republican John Leiber facing off with Democrat Aaron Richardson to replace incumbent state Treasurer Sarah Godlewski who is not seeking reelection. While polls show a majority of Wisconsinites and Americans support at least partial legality for abortion, it does not appear like that issue alone will win for Democrats, considering how polls are indicating the big-ticket races will be narrowly decided and Republicans in recent years have outperformed expectations in Wisconsin. Election Day is Nov. 8. RACINE A leading Republican state senator from Racine says he might sue the Wisconsin Parole Commission for documents, as an increasingly partisan election year battle escalates surrounding the states criminal justice system. A spokesman for the Department of Justice told The Journal Times that Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine, will be getting the documents he seeks sometime this week, slightly later than Wanggaard originally thought. Wanggaard said he, along with state Sen. Julian Bradley, R-Franklin, in May requested a series of documents related to paroles in Wisconsin. Wanggaard is alleging the state agency is stonewalling Republicans. Wanggaard, who chairs the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety, is blaming Democratic Gov. Tony Evers administration for paroles that Wanggaard finds objectionable although Evers himself does not play a direct role in the Parole Commission. The parole of killers and rapists who were convicted decades ago has become a central theme in Republican campaigns this year against Evers re-election bid and against Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who is trying to unseat two-term U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis. After an initial request for records was filed by Bradley and Wanggaard in May, Wanggaard said, they received no communication from the Parole Commission until last week. Wanggaard said he expected to receive the requested documents by Friday, but only received part of them. In a statement Monday, Wanggaard noted that others namely the conservative outlet WisconsinRightNow.com have already received documents that Wanggaard requested, and that those documents still have not been received by Wanggaard. The document that WisconsinRightNow requested and received but Wanggaard has not, according to Wanggaards office, was a listing of those paroled since 2014. This is outrageous! Public record advocates and people who support open government should be enraged, Wanggaard said in a statement. These documents have been given to other requestors, but the Evers administration is taking almost five months to give them to the Legislature. Thats not how the law works. A spokesman for Evers could not be reached for comment Monday. What are they hiding? Wanggaard continued. Why are they delaying? What dont they want people to know? The public has a right to these documents. I have a right to these documents. I will not drop this. Wanggaard said he plans to meet with Senate leadership in the coming days to discuss possible legal action. In the 2018 governors race, then-Gov. Scott Walker ran a television ad saying that Evers general support for cutting the prison population in half would result in the release of felons whove committed rape, assault, robbery and even kidnapping. Thats a lie. I never said that, Evers said at the time in response. We will not release violent criminals. Wanggaards office said it still has not received documents related to Douglas Balsewicz, a man whose parole was approved then in a rare move revoked May 13. The revocation came after Evers pressured then-Parole Commission Chairman John Tate II to reconsider. The revocation could open up the state to a lawsuit it would likely lose should Balsewicz seek to have his parole reinstated, Tate said. Balsewicz was convicted for killing his wife in front of their children in 1997. Tate, who is also president of the Racine City Council, soon after resigned from the Parole Commission at Evers request after revoking the approval of Balsewiczs parole. Republican gubernatorial challenger Tim Michels, who is running against Evers in the Nov. 8 election, has called for the governor to stop all paroles in Wisconsin through the end of 2022, which would not be legal; only ceasing discretionary paroles would be possible. Taylor Wishau, a Republican elected to the Racine County Board and Burlington Area School Board, said in a public statement last month to Evers, I have zero faith in your ability, governor, to ensure our communities across Wisconsin will remain safe from these individuals, referring to those typically older convicts being allowed to leave prison after serving more than two decades behind bars. Reporting from the Associated Press is included in this article. UNION GROVE Across the country, parents and their kids are touring colleges, looking for the one that is the best fit for their family. Shepherds College, tucked away in rural Racine County, was one such school. Potential students and their families, as well as friends of the college, toured the campus on Saturday to see all it offers. The school provides an accredited, post-secondary education for students with intellectual and developmental challenges as they journey to live a more independent life, providing support for the growth of the students in life and social skills. Dr. Tracy Terrill, the executive director for Shepherds College, was on hand for the tours. He said the school has flipped the stats for their population of students, explaining there is usually a high unemployment level for those with intellectual and developmental needs. But now, approximately 80% of the Shepherds College students are gainfully employed, defined as earning minimum wage or better. Tour stops The school located at 1805 15th Ave. in Union Grove provides three areas of educational opportunity: horticulture, culinary arts and technology. During the tour, the students demonstrated their capabilities. A stop in the kitchen saw the culinary students preparing homemade treats for the visitors. As the students mixed the batter, one of the visitors joked, Who gets to lick the beaters? A student joked back, No, the first thing we learn is sanitation. Visitors learn the culinary students bake the treats that are served at the Shepherds Community Cafe, located in the lobby of Community State Bank, which is operated by alumni of the program. Terrill stopped by one of the dining areas and noted that lunch for 120-130 staff and students is primarily prepared by the students themselves. There is a head chef and two graduates of the program to supervise, but the meal is primarily prepared by students in the culinary program. Its very good, Terrill said. In their third year, students have an internship called an Occupational Experience. One of the culinary students is completing the OE at Chick-fil-A, 9114 76th St., in Pleasant Prairie, who is a community partner for the school. Terrill spoke with appreciation of Chick-fil-A and all the schools partners who give the students an opportunity in their businesses, which is so important to their experience. Another example of the work done by students comes from the schools technical help desk, which is primarily manned by the tech students. If Terrill is having a technical difficulty, he said he sends a ticket to the help desk, and most of the time a student will show up to assist. While a member of the tech department will accompany the student the first or second time, afterward if they are comfortable, the student will respond alone. The tech department has a number of options for the students to pursue, depending on their capabilities. Initially, they will learn basic office skills, such as operating a high-end printer, data entry, keyboarding and Internet research. However, they also have the option to pursue computer repair, website design, coding and video production. On the tour, the tech department hosted a photo booth where Lilly Krejci and Leo Bartkoske were among the students snapping pics. Krejci, who is in her third year, currently works on campus for Lanex LLC, whose headquarters is in Hartland, doing data entry for her occupational experience. Krejci described herself as a Jill of all trades where technology is concerned. Bartkoske, a second-year student, is interested in IT support in order to help other people, but hes also interested in sound engineering used at concerts. Terrill explained the tech department was initially developed for high-functioning autist students with many capabilities in the tech world but who might not thrive at a community tech school. Along the tour, attendees were also given the opportunity to visit the greenhouse where Lana Hansen, a third-year student, was manning the register for the plant sale. When asked about her future plans, Hansen said, I want to stay here. I would love to come back and work with future horticulture students. I didnt know I would live plants until I came here. In the spring, the school hosts a popular plant sale with plants the students grew from seed. In their first year, students spend time in all three disciplines to decide which one is best for them. Student life Shepherds College is a faith-based school rooted in Christianity. There are Bible classes every semester, and the students attend church every Sunday. There are a number of Christian churches in the area, which the students are allowed to visit, and then attend one of their own choosing. Students must be 18 years old to attend Shepherds College, but there is no age cap. Its more do with whether theyre a fit for the program and what they want for their life, Terrill said. Students have enrolled as old as 40 years old, he said, but the average students are in their 20s. Shepherds College currently has 84 students but has the capacity for 110. Terrill said they are still rebuilding after the COVID-19 pandemic when they had to send all their students home. However, there was something interesting that came out of the pandemic. Like a lot of schools, Shepherds transitioned to online modules, which were actually quite successful, so the school has made them available online for other institutions. Terrill said the long-term goal is to expand the program. We want to touch more lives like weve done here, he said. He pointed out there are probably 150,000 students across the country who would fit in well at Shepherds College and benefit from the program. Well take 40, he said of the incoming first-year students who will start in August 2023. RACINE When JeLeslie Taylor first started working for the states Department of Corrections, she told a woman there, I am going to be a warden one day. The woman doubted her. She told her she couldnt do it. So I said, Watch me, Taylor said. Sometimes silence is very powerful. You can just say a phrase, be quiet, and then show them. I just believe that, when you tell me I cant, Im going to show you that I can. Taylor, 50, warden at the Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility, is a woman with a plan and several backup plans who is passionate about what she does. She wants the best for people and will be there to help out whenever she can. She is currently one of only two institution wardens in the state who are women of color. And the warden part is just a title for her. The passion and the purpose that I have is not just work-related. It is truly who I am, Taylor said. I love what I do. Even on my bad days. I love coming to work because I know Im making a difference. I know Im also walking in my purpose. Plan A, B and C Taylor was born in Oxford, Mississippi, and moved to Racine as a child because her parents wanted better work opportunities. Shes stayed in Racine the majority of her life. Her family was strict. She was raised by a police officer father and a nurse mother; they taught her to always have a plan. They wanted their kids to go to college, so that was Taylors plan A. She attended Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, for not even a full semester before she realized college wasnt for her. She became pregnant at age 18. It was just like, OK, I need to come up with a plan B, she said. College isnt for everyone. There are other avenues, opportunities, where you can be successful. Im an example of that. Often when she speaks to young people, such as the male offenders ages 18-24 in RYOCFs care, Taylor tells them there may be a time in their lives when they have an Aha moment that may cause them to reevaluate and make a change. That Aha moment for me was when I got pregnant, she said. I had to make some decisions. I had to get out of that relationship. I had to get a job that was gonna provide me some benefits. It was that Aha moment like, OK, you have to grow up now. And you have to come up with a plan for your life because now your life isnt about you anymore. Of the challenges Taylor has faced throughout her life, I got through them, she said. I learned from them, and I kept going. She worked at Southern Wisconsin Center in Union Grove for about two years, a facility that serves adult clients with intellectual disabilities combined with other physical or mental health disorders. She then moved to Southern Oaks Girls School, a division of juvenile corrections. She said her passion for working with young people and in the Department of Corrections stemmed from there. After holding various other positions, and after the girls school closed, Taylor started working for RYOCF as a unit manager for a few years. She was then the program director at Racine Correctional Institution. She came back to RYOCF in 2017 as a deputy warden and then in 2019 became the warden. Sunday, Oct. 2, is Taylors 30-year anniversary of working for the State of Wisconsin. I have a passion for working with youth. I always have, she said. I believe that I can impact and make a difference, and so that is my passion. And my purpose in life is to impact lives and help people see that they can change. Taylor plans to be with the DOC for five more years and then plans to continue helping young people or working in anti-human trafficking. The best part about working with the DOC for the past 30 years has been seeing staff grow and flourish in their careers, she said, and seeing young men and women that shes worked with grow, change and seeing the direction they follow. Seeing people here at RYOCF get on board with my vision for change for these young men here, just lets me know that Gods purpose and works is being done, Taylor said. She never forgets where she came from and the struggles shes had. Someone helped her get to where she is, so her job is to help someone else. Her deputy warden, Kenya Mason, is the only Black female deputy warden in the state. Taylor hopes Mason will eventually take over her spot. When you look at Department of Corrections, look at female wardens and diversity, we definitely could improve, Taylor said. Impacting others Because Taylor has lived in Racine, she understands and has experienced some things that young people have experienced. She said she grew up economically disadvantaged and was exposed to crises. She got in trouble in high school and hung out with the wrong people at the wrong places. Taylor is very passionate about mental health and helping heal trauma because she had her own trauma to work through, she said. I understand what its like to put something in the back and not want to deal with it but eventually have to deal with it, she said. When young people act out, they can easily be labeled without having the core issue addressed, which most of the time is mental health and trauma, Taylor said. They need positive role models, they need love. They need to know somebody cares for them, she said. Theyre in survival mode trying to do their best they can. But thats not how its being viewed. The question is, why? Do we take the time to say why? Or do we just label? Among the types of abuse is verbal abuse, which is powerful, she said. If you have somebody telling you that youre not going to be successful, youre not anything, youre dirt, that sticks with you. And that is what you start to think of yourself, Taylor said. We have to try to change that thought, and show them that they can, they are beautiful, and they are smart, and be confident in yourself and hold your head up and believe in yourself. Besides preaching those positive affirmations, Taylor also lends a listening ear. She said the young men in RYOCFs care share so much of their story with staff, and the staff in turn has to listen, understand, be empathetic and not judgmental of what crimes the men committed. Its up to the staff to work with incarcerated people directly. But despite Taylors busy schedule as warden, often consisting of operational duties, she makes her rounds to visit the young inmates at least once a week. Presence is powerful, and it also lets them know that I care, that I am here and the staff is here, Taylor said. I can relate and understand where theyre coming from and try to help them see that they can be successful in our community. And they are very important. And no matter what mistakes we make in life, as long as we learn and grow from them, we can still be successful. And whatever goals and dreams that we have, we still can achieve them. Vikki Sorensen, administrative captain at RYOCF, first met Taylor while working at Southern Oaks Girls School. Throughout the 25-plus years theyve known each other, what stands out most to Sorensen is Taylors way of dealing with challenging youth. She had a way of bringing out the best in the worst situations, Sorensen said of their time at Southern Oaks. The way she spoke to the girls was very impactful to them. The girls and staff found her to be a great listener, a source of information and encouraging. Sorensen said Taylor is one of the most caring people shes ever known. She puts 100% into everything she does and continues to do so. She is confident, honest, transparent and has that never give up attitude, Sorensen wrote in an email. She is inspiring, very generous and is a true example of a leader. She has always recognized a job well done, and has a passion for what she does! And, she always wears the coolest-looking eyeglasses! Spreading her message Taylor tells the inmates to always have a Plan A, B and C. She asks what their goals are once they get out of RYOCF, if they can tell somebody who they are and why they should hire them. And then she asks them how they can maintain that job. Those are my drilling moments for them, Taylor said, noting she emphasizes a no labels factor. You are not a DOC number. You are not a felon. Dont let people label you. You have a name; that is who you are, she said. You may have some bad choices. You have to serve time for it, but that is not who you are. Taylor tells them they can be anything they want to be. You may have to fight a little extra, you may have to work a little harder, she said. You may have to come in early, stay late, you may have to do some extra things to get it done. You have to pay for some trainings out of your pocket to help you move forward, but it can be done. You got to believe in yourself. And I think that is my biggest thing, is making sure our youth and the young men here have confidence to believe in themselves. Wider impact RYOCF Human Resources Assistant Antawnette Boatner also first met Taylor at Southern Oaks, in 2001. The two have worked together in some capacity for the past 21 years. Boatner said Taylor is approachable and personable. She was a compassionate person which was really important for the young ladies we had in our care, Boatner said of their Southern Oaks time. Boatner said Taylor overwhelmingly deserves her position as warden and has values of hard work, dedication, devotion and persistence. Ms. Taylor embodies what leadership means and what effective leadership looks like. She has an open-door policy, supporting and motivating her staff as they all work together to provide the best for the persons in our care, Boatner said, noting Taylor is a standout in the community as well. Her compassion for others never goes unnoticed. She empowers others to work hard and strive for better opportunities. JeLeslie was always willing to lend a helping hand, Sorensen said. I cannot count how many times she went above and beyond to help someone out. She has this positive energy about her which is felt by many. She truly has made a difference in many peoples lives. A law enforcement pursuit of a vehicle reaching speeds over 100 mph ended with the arrest of a man wanted in an alleged suffocation incident after his car plunged into a retention pond just off Interstate 94 Sunday. Bristol and Pleasant Prairie fire and rescue units were called at 11:30 a.m. to the scene in the 9000 block of I-94 at the crossing with Highway C. The Kenosha County Sheriffs Department also responded to the scene of the crash to arrest the man, the sole occupant of the vehicle, who was attempting to flee on foot, according to authorities. The vehicle was being pursued by the Wisconsin State Patrol when it went into the water on the southwest side of the southbound on-ramp . Wisconsin State Patrol Sgt. Scott Zovar said the patrol was notified that Sheboygan authorities were seeking the man who was involved in an alleged suffocation. Authorities there had suspected the man would possibly be en route to Chicago, Zovar said. A state trooper located the vehicle in Racine and attempted to stop the vehicle. The subject fled at speeds of approximately 105 mph down here to Kenosha where the vehicle subsequently crashed and went into the retention pond, he said. The subject fled on foot (and) was taken into custody by Kenosha County Sheriffs deputies. The man was later transported to Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital with minor injuries where he was treated and released into custody, Zovar said. The mans name was not released Sunday and charges were pending. We are working with Sheboygan authorities on coordinating him getting back to Sheboygan, he said. The vehicle, which was submerged, was later pulled from the water. 1. Yes. Its important to cast my votes early and avoid the lines on Election Day. 2. Yes. With nearly two weeks of early voting, its a more convenient way to take part. 3. No. Its better to wait until Election Day, in case any last-minute information surfaces. 4. No. Im not planning to vote early or on Election Day. It isnt worth my time. 5. Unsure. It depends on how the campaigns are shaping up. Ill play it by ear. Vote View Results Bahrain-based Batelco has announced that its subsidiary Sure has agreed to buy Airtel-Vodafone, a mobile network provider located in Jersey and Guernsey, in the Channel Islands. The merger will trigger significant investment in the islands digital infrastructure including the introduction of the latest 5G technology to the islands, resulting in the delivery of innovative mobile networks on an accelerated programme to provide high-speed gigabit technology, said a Batelco statement. Sure is investing in building high-quality mobile networks which will improve coverage, value and reliability for customers and complements Sures fiber networks. The merger supports Sures strategy to grow in scale and scope, in line with Batelcos international investments aspirations, it said. Batelco CEO Mikkel Vinter commented: As part of our international investments strategy, we continuously seek out opportunities for the growth and development of our overseas businesses. Sure, our subsidiary based in the Channel Islands, has continued to deliver strong performance, and the merger with Airtel-Vodafone supports the ambition to grow its mobile networks and deliver new and enhanced digital services, including the latest 5G technology, for its customers across Jersey and Guernsey. The proposed merger is subject to regulatory approval in both Guernsey and Jersey, it said. TradeArabia News Service LEIPZIG, Germany Swedish scientist Svante Paabo won the Nobel Prize in medicine Monday for discoveries in human evolution that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal DNA that helped us understand what makes humans unique and provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19. Techniques that Paabo spearheaded allowed researchers to compare the genome of modern humans and that of other hominins the Denisovans as well as Neanderthals. Just as you do an archeological excavation to find out about the past, we sort of make excavations in the human genome, he said at a news conference held by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. While Neanderthal bones were first discovered in the mid-19th century, only by understanding their DNA often referred to as the code of life have scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the time when modern humans and Neanderthals diverged as a species, around 800,000 years ago. Paabo and his team also surprisingly found that gene flow had occurred from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens, demonstrating that they had children together during periods of co-existence," said Anna Wedell, chair of the Nobel Committee. This transfer of genes between hominin species affects how the immune system of modern humans reacts to infections, such as the coronavirus. People outside Africa have 1-2% of Neanderthal genes. Neanderthals were never in Africa, so there's no known direct contribution to people in sub-Saharan Africa. Paabo and his team managed to extract DNA from a tiny finger bone found in a cave in Siberia, leading to the recognition of a new species of ancient humans they called Denisovans. Wedell called it a sensational discovery that showed Neanderthals and Denisovans were sister groups that split from each other around 600,000 years ago. Denisovan genes have been found in up to 6% of modern humans in Asia and Southeast Asia, indicating interbreeding occurred there too. By mixing with them after migrating out of Africa, Homo sapiens picked up sequences that improved their chances to survive in their new environments, Wedell said. For example, Tibetans share a gene with Denisovans that helps them adapt to high altitude. Paabo said he was surprised to learn of his win, and at first thought it was an elaborate prank by colleagues or a call about his summer home in Sweden. So I was just gulping down the last cup of tea to go and pick up my daughter at her nanny where she has had an overnight stay, and then I got this call from Sweden," he said in an interview on the Nobel Prizes homepage. I thought, Oh the lawn mowers broken down or something'" at the summer home. He also mused about what would have happened if Neanderthals had survived another 40,000 years. Would we see even worse racism against Neanderthals, because they were really in some sense different from us? Or would we actually see our place in the living world quite in a different way when we would have other forms of humans there that are very like us but still different, he said. Paabo, 67, performed his prizewinning studies at the University of Munich and at the Max Planck Institute. During the celebrations after the news conference in Leipzig, colleagues threw him into a pool of water. Paabo took it with humor, splashing his feet and laughing. Paabos father, Sune Bergstrom, won the Nobel prize in medicine in 1982, the eighth time the son or daughter of a laureate also won a Nobel Prize. In his book Neanderthal Man: In Search of Lost Genomes, Paabo described himself as Bergstroms secret extramarital son something he also mentioned briefly on Monday. He father took a big interest in his work, he said, but it was his mother who most encouraged him. The biggest influence in my life was for sure my mother, with whom I grew up," he said in the Nobel interview. "And in some sense it makes me a bit sad that she cant experience this day. She sort of was very much into science, and very much stimulated and encouraged me through the years. Scientists in the field lauded the Nobel Committee's choice. David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, said he was thrilled, fearing the field of ancient DNA might fall between the cracks. By recognizing that DNA can be preserved for tens of thousands of years and developing ways to extract it Paabo and his team created a completely new way to answer questions about our past, said Reich, who is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press Health and Science Department. Dr. Eric Green, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, called it a great day for genomics, a relatively young field first named in 1987. The Human Genome project, which ran from 1990-2003, got us the first sequence of the human genome, and weve improved that sequence ever since, Green said. FELDHEIM, Germany Europeans are opening their energy bills with trepidation these days, bracing for hefty price hikes as utility companies pass on the surging cost of natural gas, oil and electricity tied to Russia's war in Ukraine. Many are trying to conserve by turning down the heat and shutting off lights this winter. Not so the people of Feldheim, population 130. Located about an hour and a half south of Berlin, this modest but well-kept village has been energy self-sufficient for more than a decade. A bold experiment launched in the mid-1990s saw Feldheim erect a handful of wind turbines to provide electricity to the village. Then it built a local grid, solar panels, battery storage and more turbines. A biogas plant put up to keep piglets warm was expanded, providing extra income to the farmers' cooperative, which pumps hot water through a village-wide central heating system. A hydrogen production facility is also under construction. Now, 55 wind turbines can be seen on the sloping farmlands around Feldheim and residents enjoy some of the cheapest electricity and natural gas rates in Germany. "They can all sleep well at night," says Kathleen Thompson, who works for a local educational organization, the New Energies Forum. "They've got no concerns because the prices are not going to change, not in the immediate future anyway." Feldheim's hands-on approach to producing its own eco-friendly energy draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year and contrasts with the way Germany as a whole still relies on fossil fuel imports for much of its needs. That became painfully apparent when Russia invaded Ukraine, upending the reliance Germany and other European countries had on Moscow's coal, oil and natural gas. Despite Germany pumping billions into the growth of renewable energy to reduce climate-changing emissions, fossil fuels and nuclear were responsible for more than half of the country's gross power production in the first six months of the year. A lack of sufficient transmission capacity means wind parks in the north regularly have to be shut down while fossil fuel plants are fired up to provide electricity to factories in the south. Letting locals participate in and benefit from the project was key to Feldheim's success, said Michael Knape, mayor of Treuenbrietzen, a municipality to which Feldheim belongs. While wind parks elsewhere in Germany often face opposition, including some economically depressed neighboring villages, Feldheim's close-knit community approved so many turbines that it actually exports about 250 times as much electricity as it consumes. "Citizens need to feel that it's their transition and not one imposed from above," Knape said. But he also credits authorities at the time with not interfering in what he describes as an "experiment" that could have failed. It fell into a legal gray area that officials elsewhere might have clamped down on. "In Germany, you sometimes get the impression that if someone makes a mistake then it's a huge problem," Knape said. "But it's only in that way that we make progress." Feldheim's grassroots approach to generating clean energy contrasts starkly with the prevailing practice in Germany, where large energy companies tend to build and control vast power projects. Small-scale efforts, meanwhile, often face high regulatory hurdles. Still, Knape is hopeful that Germany's energy transition can catch up with Feldheim. "I'm firmly convinced that given the current pressure in Europe it's become clear to everyone that we need to approach this differently than before," he said. While Feldheim's approach can't be copied everywhere, such projects can be a big part of the solution, Knape said. "Many little Feldheims could supply at least parts of Berlin." The past decade has witnessed a rapid expansion of genetic tests, including new instruments to inform patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer about the risk of recurrence and to guide their treatment. But the clinical significance of many of the inherited mutations that can now be identified remains unclear, and experts are torn on when and how to deploy all the new tests available. Patients are sometimes left paying out-of-pocket for exams that are not yet the standard of care, and even the most up-to-date oncologists may be uncertain how to incorporate the flood of new information into what used to be standard treatment protocols. A quarter-century ago, Myriad Genetics introduced the first breast cancer genetic test for BRCA mutations, two genes associated with a substantially elevated risk of getting breast cancer, opening the door to a new era in genetic testing. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations account for as many as half of all hereditary breast cancers, and people with a problematic mutation on one of those genes have a 45% to 72% chance of developing breast cancer during their lifetimes. They may also be at higher risk for ovarian and other cancers than people without harmful BRCA mutations. But the clinical significance is murkier for many other genetic tests. Testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes used to cost thousands of dollars. Now, for a fraction of that, doctors can order multi-gene test panels from commercial labs that look for mutations in dozens of genes. Some direct-to-consumer companies offer screening panels for a few hundred dollars, though their reliability varies. When Jen Carbary was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 at age 44, genetic testing identified a mutation in a gene called PALB2 that significantly increases the risk of developing breast cancer. Guidelines suggest that breast cancer patients with a PALB2 mutation, much like those with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, consider having a mastectomy to reduce the chance of a breast cancer recurrence. I wish genetic testing was the standard of care, said Carbary, who owed nothing for the test because her insurer covered the cost. Carbary, who lives in Sterling Heights, Michigan, said the test results affirmed the decision she had already made to have a double mastectomy and provided important information for family members, including her 21-year-old daughter and 18-year-old son, who will likely be tested in their mid-20s or early 30s. But some breast cancer experts are concerned that widespread testing may also identify genetic mutations whose impact is unclear, creating anxiety and leading to further testing and to treatment of questionable value that could raise costs for the health care system. It can also confuse patients. It happens a lot, that patients find their way to us after getting confusing results elsewhere, said Dr. Mark Robson, chief of the breast medicine service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Robson said the cancer center has a clinical genetics service, staffed by doctors and genetic counselors, that helps people make decisions about how to manage genetic testing results. For people diagnosed with breast cancer, many professional groups, including the influential National Comprehensive Cancer Network, or NCCN, recommend limiting testing to certain people, including those with high-risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer; those who are 45 or younger when theyre diagnosed; and those with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. But in 2019, the American Society of Breast Surgeons recommended a different approach: Offer genetic testing to all patients who are diagnosed with or have a personal history of breast cancer. The recommendation was controversial. The NCCN guidelines (cover) most of the women who needed testing, but we wanted to get them all, said Dr. Eric Manahan, a general surgeon in Dalton, Georgia, and a member of the surgeons groups board of directors. Mutations on other genes that are associated with breast cancer are much less common than BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations and generally dont increase the risk of developing breast cancer as much. The cancer-causing impact of these genes may be less clear than that of the BRCA genes, which have been tested for since the mid-1990s. And the appropriate response to the less common mutations whether to consider a risk-reducing mastectomy or stepped-up screening is often unclear. Things get sloppier and sloppier when you look at other genes, said Dr. Steven Katz, a professor of medicine and health management and policy at the University of Michigan. The risks tend to be lower for different cancers, and less certain and more variable. You might walk away wondering, Whyd I have to know that? Planned Parenthood officials on Monday announced plans for a mobile abortion clinic a 37-foot RV that will stay in Illinois but travel close to the borders of adjoining states that have banned the procedure since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade earlier this year. The announcement came 100 days after the Supreme Court ruling that stripped away constitutional protections for abortions, allowing states to ban the procedure. Illinois didn't institute an abortion ban, but neighboring Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee did, along with several other states in the South and Midwest. As a result, both abortion clinics on the Illinois side of the St. Louis region, including one operated by Planned Parenthood in Fairview Heights, have been inundated with patients. Leaders of the St. Louis Planned Parenthood office said that since June, the Fairview Heights clinic has seen a 30% increase in abortion patients a rate officials said was even higher than they anticipated. Patients from outside Missouri and Illinois increased by more than 340%. The onslaught of patients means longer waits. Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, said abortion appointment wait times have gone from an average of four days prior to the Supreme Court ruling to two-and-a-half weeks. The mobile abortion clinic is a way to reduce travel times and distances in order to meet patients at the Illinois border, said Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthoods St. Louis office. This will make a dramatic impact on their access. The mobile clinic will travel near to the borders of southeastern Missouri, western Kentucky and northeastern Tennessee. Rodriguez said the RV is expected to arrive this month and should be operational by the end of the year. The clinic will include two exam rooms, a lab and a waiting room. Initially, it will provide medication abortions up to 11 weeks of gestation. Planned Parenthood will aim to start providing surgical abortions at the clinic after the first few months. McNicholas and Rodriguez declined to discuss safety and security measures for the mobile clinic. Laura Echevarria, spokeswoman for the National Right to Life Committee, which opposes abortions, called the mobile abortion clinic another grotesque demeaning of human life. Chemical abortions can lead to life-threatening complications, Echevarria said in a statement. Will women recognize those complications early enough to seek treatment? Other efforts have begun around the country to increase abortion access. The nonprofit Just The Pill operates a mobile clinic in Colorado that provides medication abortions. Spokeswoman Kat Mavengere said that early next year, also in Colorado, Just The Pill will operate a mobile clinic for procedural abortion. The organization also plans to expand to other areas, starting with a mobile clinic in Illinois in 2023. As the number of immigrants seeking court permission to avoid deportation grows, foundations in Los Angeles have joined with local governments to direct millions of dollars to pay for lawyers to represent the immigrants, an effort they hope will be copied across the country. Unlike defendants in a criminal case who can be represented by a court-appointed lawyer, immigrants who face deportation are not provided legal counsel. Unaccompanied children and non-English speakers dont stand much of a chance advocating for themselves. And for many immigrants facing the byzantine hearing process, paying for an advocate is out of reach. By responding to an emergency need, nonprofit leaders were able to build a case that legal counsel for potential deportees should be viewed as a right, says Miguel Santana, president of the Weingart Foundation. A sustained wave of deportations could cripple a city like Los Angeles that depends on immigrants as workers, employers, and civic leaders, he says. Its in our collective interest as Angelenos to provide support to immigrants who cannot defend themselves during this process, he says. This is a service, like any other service, that the taxpayers should cover. The cost of a deportation case can go well above $10,000, according to Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights of Los Angeles, a group that has received support from foundations. A family with a member facing deportation faces cascading problems, including massive debt to pay for a lawyer, missed time from work to go to hearings, and the possibility that it could lose its main breadwinner, Salas says. Theres no way a low-income construction worker or domestic worker can actually pay for that, she says. This gives those families a fighting chance. The combination of philanthropic and local government dollars, called the L.A. Justice Fund, was created by the California Community Foundation and the Weingart Foundation in 2017 after President Trump signed a series of executive orders that strengthened immigration enforcement and led to a sharp increase in deportations. In the years since, the L.A. Justice Fund has attracted nearly $7 million in philanthropic support and more than $16 million in combined support from Los Angeles County and the city of Los Angeles. Last summer, both jurisdictions and the foundations committed to continue the project for three more years. But the notion of using government money to represent undocumented residents strikes some as unfair. U.S. citizens who are parties in other civil proceedings arent provided a lawyer, so why should someone who is in the country illegally, asks Lora Ries, senior research fellow for homeland security at the Heritage Foundation. With 1.8 million cases pending nationally, using government money to pay for legal services isnt sustainable, she says, particularly because people awaiting deportation hearings and their lawyers can ask for a series of delays before the case is heard on its merits. If someones here unlawfully, they want to stay here as long as possible. So it is in their interest to drag out the proceedings because it buys them more time, Ries says. This is a bottomless fiscal pit. Others say the free counsel is fiscally prudent. It makes sense for the county to provide legal help, says Rigoberto Reyes, executive director of the Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs, because if a person is deported, especially a familys main breadwinner, the county might have to pick up the tab for a whole range of other social services like food and help with rent that family would be more likely to qualify for. Eventually the county has to bear the brunt of trying to address those issues, Reyes says. At their 2019 peak during the Trump administration, immigration courts initiated 658,000 deportation proceedings, not counting criminal and terrorism cases, according to data collected by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, a data research center at Syracuse University. That number dropped the following two years. But fiscal 2022, which began in October, started with a surge of new cases. As cases mount, the Biden administration has taken steps to reduce the backlog. In April, Kerry Doyle, the legal adviser to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, urged federal prosecutors to mind their budgets when deciding whether to prosecute cases, provided that defendants arent suspected of being terrorists or criminals. Sound prioritization of our litigation efforts through the appropriate use of prosecutorial discretion can preserve limited government resources (and) achieve just and fair outcomes in individual cases. Doyle wrote in an April memo. Meanwhile, a group of 20 Democratic U.S. Senators urged Congress to direct $400 million to provide for legal counsel in deportation cases. Securing those funds is a long shot, as is passage of a broad immigration overhaul that would provide immigrants already in the country illegally with a form of amnesty or a path to citizenship. What that means, says Weingarts Santana, is hundreds of thousands of people will remain under threat of deportation without help. Says Santana: Until the federal government passes comprehensive immigration reform, these kinds of efforts are going to be needed. ST. LOUIS In the secure transport industry, it's called "gooning": Men show up under the cover of darkness and force a teenager into a vehicle, taking them against their will to a boarding school, foster home or treatment center. The process is typically initiated by parents at wit's end over what to do with a child perceived as troubled. For the kids, it's the traumatic first leg of a journey to a place perhaps hundreds of miles away from home. Teens who resist are often told, "We can do this the easy way or the hard way." They might be restrained with handcuffs or zip ties. They could be blindfolded or hooded. Though a secure transport company operator was indicted last month, criminal charges are rare because the little-known industry is virtually unregulated. In fact, the indictment was for violating a restraining order, not for the transport itself. "Some of these stories are almost out of a Charles Dickens novel," said Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat who is pushing for federal regulation of the secure transport industry. Thousands of teenagers end up annually in some form of congregate care facility or program aimed at dealing with issues ranging from behavioral problems to drug or alcohol abuse and crime. In Missouri alone, more than 100 Christian boarding schools promise hope for wayward teens. In Utah, wilderness programs use a back-to-nature approach to try to help young people turn around their lives. Other kids end up in foster homes or treatment centers. In many cases, the children don't want to leave home and won't go along with their parents. That's when parents hire one of the many companies specializing in transporting children to congregate care. The process is expensive. One company lists fees on its website showing that prices range up to $2,895 plus airfare for two agents and the child; or $300 to $5,000 for kids who are driven to a facility, depending on the distance and other factors. Many have websites touting their approaches. "My goal to your child is to start this transition with 100% honesty and integrity," Julio Sandoval of Safe, Sound, Secure Youth Ministries in Missouri posts on his site. "I am not of the ideology of necessarily making your child happy. Happiness will eventually arise when he finds himself growing as a young man and not a threat to himself and society." Sandoval, 41, and the mother of a California teenager were indicted by a federal grand jury in August. The indictment said workers for Sandoval's company handcuffed the teenager at a store in Fresno, California, and drove him to the Agape Boarding School in Stockton, Missouri. The boy allegedly remained restrained for the entire 27-hour ride. Sandoval and the mother are accused of violating the boy's restraining order against her. Sandoval was formerly a dean at Agape and now works at another Christian boarding school in Missouri, in addition to operating the transport company. Phone and email messages left with his company and Sandoval's lawyer weren't returned. The secure transport industry is regulated in just one state: Oregon. That law, implemented in 2021, prohibits the use of hoods, blindfolds and handcuffs, among other things. Other states may follow suit. Utah state Sen. Mike McKell, a Republican, and Missouri state Rep. Keri Ingle, a Democrat, plan to introduce legislation next session regulating the secure transport industry in their states. But advocates say that because so many children are picked up in one state and taken to another, there is a need for federal legislation. "You have a host of jurisdictional issues," McKell said. "You pick up a kid in California and he ends up in Missouri. If there is a problem or abuse, where does jurisdiction lie? This is an issue that squarely deals with interstate commerce. I do think we need a federal solution." Khanna is formulating the "Accountability for Congregate Care Act," which would provide protections at youth facilities such as prohibiting solitary confinement and the use of chemical or physical restraints. His proposal also would provide for regulation of transport companies. "I think people didn't realize the kind of trauma and abuse that was going on," Khanna said. "There was a sense they're going to be sent to be reformed, they're going to get tough love. "But they didn't realize there was actually emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse taking place and they didn't realize the trauma of kids being tricked to going there," Khanna said. "What we end up doing is just creating more trauma for these kids." David Patterson was one of those kids. He was a high-achieving high school freshman honor roll student, a pole vaulter on the track team. He said his parents became alarmed because he got drunk and smoked marijuana on Halloween, and because he told them he was gay. On Father's Day 2002, two men showed up at the Pattersons' California home about 4 a.m. and rousted him out of bed. They displayed the handcuffs they'd use if he didn't get into a taxi, which took the trio to the airport for the flight to Missouri. Within hours, Patterson was at Agape, where he spent about a year. Patterson, now 35, said the trauma of being taken to the school stuck with him for a decade. "When I would see yellow cabs, I would have panic attacks and episodes," he said. BEIRUT When the bulk cargo ship Laodicea docked in Lebanon last summer, Ukrainian diplomats said the vessel was carrying grain stolen by Russia and urged Lebanese officials to impound the ship. Moscow called the allegation "false and baseless," and Lebanon's prosecutor general sided with the Kremlin and declared that the 10,000 tons of barley and wheat flour wasn't stolen and allowed the ship to unload. But an investigation by the Associated Press and the PBS series "Frontline" has found the Laodicea, owned by Syria, is part of a sophisticated Russian-run smuggling operation that has used falsified manifests and seaborne subterfuge to steal Ukrainian grain worth at least $530 million cash that has helped feed President Vladimir Putin's war machine. AP used satellite imagery and marine radio transponder data to track three dozen ships making more than 50 voyages carrying grain from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to ports in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and other countries. The ongoing theft, which legal experts say is a potential war crime, is being carried out bywealthy businessmen and state-owned companies in Russia and Syria. Meanwhile, the Russian military has attacked farms, grain silos and shipping facilities still under Ukrainian control with artillery and air strikes, destroying food, driving up prices. The grain and flour carried by the 453-foot-long Laodicea likely started its journey in the southern Ukrainian city of Melitopol, which Russia seized in the early days of the war. Video posted to social media on July 9 shows a train pulling up to the Melitopol Elevator, a massive grain storage facility, with green hopper cars marked with the name of the Russian company Agro-Fregat LLC with a logo in the shape of a spike of wheat. Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov told AP the occupiers are moving vast quantities of grain from the region by train and truck to ports in Russia and Crimea, a strategic Ukrainian peninsula that Russia has illegally occupied since 2014. A July 11 satellite image shows the Laodicea tied up at a pier in Feodosia. The ship's radio transponder was turned off. Two weeks later, when it arrived at the Lebanese port city Tripoli, it claimed to be carrying grain from a small Russian port on the other side of the Black Sea. A copy of the ship's manifests obtained by AP claimed its port of origin was Kavkaz, Russia. The shipper was listed as Agro-Fregat, the same name on the train cars in Melitopol. The buyer was Loyal Agro Co Ltd., a wholesale grocer headquartered in Turkey. Agro-Fregat didn't respond to emailed questions and a phone number that had been listed on its website was out of service last week. A spokesman for Loyal Agro said the ship's cargo came from Russia. But the Laodicea couldn't have picked up its cargo in Kavkaz, the Russian port listed on the manifest. The ship's hull, which reaches 26 feet below the surface, would run aground in the relatively shallow port, which has a maximum depth of 17.5 feet. The port in Feodosia is more than twice as deep easily able to accommodate the big ship. Another company involved in smuggling grain is United Shipbuilding Corp., a Russian state-owned defense contractor sanctioned by the United States for providing weapons to the Russian war effort. The company, through its subsidiary Crane Marine Contractor, bought three cargo ships just weeks before Putin invaded Ukraine, in a departure from its core business providing heavy lift platforms to the oil and gas industry. The three ships have made at least 17 trips between Crimea and ports in Turkey and Syria. When AP called Crane Marine Contractor, a receptionist answered by saying the company's name. A man she transferred the call to, however, insisted AP had the wrong number. "You have reached the wrong place, we do not have such information," said the man, who refused to give his name. During a typical voyage in mid-June, a 560-foot-long ship called the Mikhail Nenashev was captured on satellite being loaded at the Russian-controlled Avlita Grain Terminal in Sevastopol, Crimea. The ship's radio transponder was turned off, a tactic often used by smugglers known as "running dark." It arrived on June 25 in Dortyol, Turkey, and docked at a pier owned by MMK Metalurji, a steel producer. MMK Metalurji is controlled by Viktor Rashnikov, a Russian billionaire who is close to Putin. Rashnikov and his company have been sanctioned by the United States, European Union and United Kingdom. In an email to AP, MMK said the grain came from Russia: "The place where the said cargo is loaded is PORT KAVKAZ." As with Laodicea, Nenashev's draught is too deep to dock at the Kavkaz port. Turkey helped broker an agreement between Russia and Ukraine in July to allow both countries to export grain and fertilizer through safe corridors in the Black Sea. The deal did not address the grain Russia has taken from occupied areas. Though Turkish authorities have pledged to stop illegal smuggling, Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in a June news conference his country had not found any evidence of theft. "In our investigation on ships' ports and goods' origins, following claims about Turkey, we saw the origin records to be Russia," he said Whatever the records say, the smuggling operation continues. Crane Marine Contractor's ship Matros Koshka named for a Russian sailor lauded as national hero for his bravery during the Crimean War of 1854 cruised north last week into the Black Sea with a listed destination of Kavkaz before turning off its transponder and running dark. Satellite imagery taken Thursday showed the 528-foot-long ship had docked once again at the grain terminal in the occupied Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, little more than a mile from a Soviet-era statue honoring its namesake. AURORA Aurora Cooperative Elevator Co. and KAAPA Ethanol Holdings LLC have announced a joint venture involving Aurora Cooperatives ethanol and grain facilities located west of Aurora. The joint venture plans to make significant investments with the goal of increasing production and efficiency at the ethanol facilities so that the facilities remain a destination for area farmers corn for many years to come. Aurora Cooperative Board Chair Bill Schuster said, We are looking forward to a partnership with KAAPA Ethanol at our ethanol and grain facilities. KAAPA has a track record of operational expertise and strong financial performance. We believe this partnership will strengthen the future of the ethanol plant for our farmer-owners. KAAPA Board Chair Paul Kenney of Amherst said, Aurora Cooperative has led the way in promoting E-15 and higher ethanol blend fuels in Nebraska with its A-Stops and other efforts. We are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with Aurora Cooperative with its ethanol and grain facilities west of Aurora and look forward to a long and prosperous partnership. ABOUT KAAPA KAAPA was formed as an ethanol company by a group of Nebraska farmers in 2001. Since that time KAAPA has expanded its ethanol production footprint and grain facilities. Chris Decker, Aurora Cooperatives chief executive officer, said, Im excited to partner with KAAPA. They are a successful Nebraska-based company. Like Aurora Cooperative, KAAPA is owned by farmers. Aurora Cooperative and KAAPA share similar values and exist for the sole purpose of serving our farmer-owners. Aurora Cooperative believes this partnership will allow us to make the investments needed in order for these assets to remain a value-added destination market for our farmer-owners in the future. Chuck Woodside, KAAPAs chief executive officer, said, We are excited for the opportunity to partner with Aurora Cooperative at its ethanol facilities west of Aurora. Hamilton County is an excellent location logistically for an ethanol plant. The proximity to our plants in Minden and Ravenna will give us the opportunity for additional synergies. Aurora Cooperative and KAAPA anticipate the transaction will close in early 2023, subject to customary closing conditions, and look forward to a bright future serving Hamilton County and surrounding area farmers. KEARNEY The Texas Tenors will offer a free outreach program for elementary students at 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Merryman Performing Arts Center. The 45-minute program will feature an introduction to the members of the trio, a history of the group and the experiences of The Texas Tenors on Americas Got Talent. They will also read their childrens book, Ruckus on the Ranch. UEE isnt a recognized academic title, but Tonia Lowe said it fits her father, Truman Lowe. He became the ultimate education encourager UEE, Lowe said. Lowes gift of encouragement and his accomplishments as a internationally renowned artist and teacher were celebrated Monday as the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse dedicated the Truman T. Lowe Center for the Arts in his honor. It is the first building on the UW-La Crosse campus to be named after a person of color. Lowe graduated from UW-La Crosse in 1969 and earned his masters degree in fine arts at UW-Madison in 1973. He remained on the Madison campus for the next 30 years as a professor of art, where he served as department chair for three years. He also curated art for the Smithsonian Institutions National Museum of the American Indian from 2000-08. His art was exhibited worldwide prior to his death in 2019. But his path through college wasnt an easy one. He was raised on a Ho-Chunk mission in Black River Falls and was the first in his family to attend college. It took him seven years to complete his bachelors degree as he overcame financial and cultural challenges. What really got him through was all the words of encouragement from family and friends and professors, Tonia Lowe said. He took that lesson of how encouraging words are essential to get through college and turned it into a super power. Lowes wife of 53 years, Nancy, said her husband valued education and the positive impact it can have on the Native American students. I called him the pusher the education pusher, she said. If he was talking to somebody, he always managed to get that in ... I have heard from so many people who told me how Truman influenced their lives, and it was heartwarming. Jo Ortel, a Beloit College art professor who authored a biography on Lowe, said he was primarily a wood artist but also ventured into metal sculpture. She described his art as elegant, minimalist work. She said Lowe maintained a sense of perspective about himself and his work. Truman was very soft-spoken, unassuming and modest, Ortel said. He didnt take himself too seriously ... he was a sculptor, but if you ask him what he did, he would often would like to say, I make sawdust. Sometimes he conceded he made very good sawdust. UW-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow said Lowe made art that honors his heritage and the woodland environment of this region. While teaching at UW-Madison, Lowe maintained ties to the La Crosse campus. He returned many times to the area and served on the UW-La Crosse Foundation Board of Directors. Tonia Lowe said its important that Native American students at UW-La Crosse will now walk past a building that honors a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Representation matters, she said. If youre a Native student coming on to campus and you see a center of the arts thats named after a Ho-Chunk artist and educator, the university is basically saying, We see you and we believe in you. Gecko Robotics, a leading US robotics firm that has developed robots capable of inspecting oil and gas and power infrastructure, will set up a new international headquarter in the UAE under the Ministry of Economys landmark NextGenFDI program. Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, who oversees the NextGenFDI program, said Geckos investment supports the UAEs mission to develop a world class, advanced technology ecosystem. Once again, we are seeing world-leading technology make its home in the UAE. Our industrial base is seeking to integrate the tools of the Fourth Industrial revolution to improve efficiencies and boost productivity, and Gecko Robotics will be a key partner on that journey. The decision by the CEO of Gecko Robotics, Jake and the team, to build an international base in the UAE is testament to our business-friendly culture and the support on offer from our spectrum of stakeholders as part of the NextGenFDI initiative. We are making the UAE one of the easiest places on the planet to enter the market, find the right workforce and scale rapidly. Jake Loosararian, CEO and Co-Founder of Gecko Robotics, said: We are big believers in the UAE and its transformation into a globally competitive economic and innovation hub. Here, we can take advantage of the UAEs Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements to export to the rest of the world from here, and we can support energy businesses in the region to realize efficiencies that will help productivity and create the drive to realize Net Zero goals. As our business continues to expand across Europe and the Middle East, we see the UAE market as a critical hub to access both the manufacturing and engineering talent we need to continue to accelerate our growth. Our first employees are already settling in the UAE and we have ambitious plans to grow our footprint. As part of its investment in the country, the Pittsburgh-based company is looking to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (Kizad) that will create around 300 jobs over the next few years. Geckos wall-climbing robots use specially designed sensor payloads to detect otherwise invisible damage, allowing for precision repairs and predictive maintenance. A range of companies and government agencies use Geckos software to extend the lifespan and efficiency of critical infrastructure including power plants, oil refineries, manufacturing facilities, and other assets, said a statement. The NextGenFDI initiative was launched by the Ministry of Economy in July, 2022, to attract digitally enabled businesses from all over the world with a package of market entry fundamentals required to launch and scale from within the UAE. These include rapid and flexible incorporation processes, fast-track licensing, bulk visa issuances, banking facilitation and commercial and residential lease incentives. The program has been devised to accelerate the UAEs economic diversification agenda and elevate its status as a knowledge- and innovation-based economy. Gecko Robotics is the latest to commit to the program, joining UK tech company Godel and food app development company Krush with more expected in the coming weeks, it said. TradeArabia News Service The Amber Alert for Kryssy A. King, 15, of Holcombe has been canceled. King has been found and is safe. King had been missing since around 11:30 p.m. on Friday evening. She was believed to be traveling in an unknown vehicle with Trevor Blackburn, a 22-year old who is not a resident of Wisconsin. Blackburn, who is wanted by law enforcement for active warrants, was taken into custody by the Douglas County Sheriffs Office and the City of Superior Police Department. The Chippewa County Sheriffs Office thanked the public for their vigilance and tips. Agencies involved with this investigation include: FBIWisconsin Department of JusticeWisconsin State PatrolDouglas County Sheriffs OfficeRusk County Sheriffs OfficeBarron County Sheriffs OfficeStanley Police DepartmentChippewa Falls Police DepartmentEau Claire Police DepartmentSuperior Police DepartmentCornell EMS WASHINGTON (AP) A trial that started this week in Washington, D.C., is the biggest test yet in the Justice Departments efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, a violent assault that challenged the foundations of American democracy. On trial is extremist leader Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group, and four associates. Prosecutors and defense attorneys are making their opening statements on Monday and the trial will last several weeks. Here is a look at what's to come: WHO ARE THE OATH KEEPERS? The extremist group was founded in 2009 by Rhodes who was educated at Yale Law School and served briefly as a U.S. Army paratrooper before a training accident left him with a back injury. The group was named after its stated goal of getting past and present members of the military, first responders and police officers to honor the promise they made to defend the Constitution against enemies. They issued a list of orders that its members wouldnt obey, such as disarming citizens, carrying out warrantless searches and detaining Americans as enemy combatants in violation of their right to jury trials. That benign framing and leveraging of social media helped the group grow to one of the country's largest groups in the antigovernment militia arena, but the internal dialog was often darker, experts said. Oath Keepers participated in the standoff with federal officials at Nevadas Bundy Ranch in 2014, and later along rooftops in Ferguson, Missouri, after a grand jury declined to charge a police officer in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown. The group would eventually embrace much of former President Donald Trump's rhetoric and false claims that the 2020 election was fraudulent. WHY ARE THEY ON TRIAL? On trial with Rhodes are Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers; Kenneth Harrelson, another Florida Oath Keeper; Thomas Caldwell, a retired U.S. Navy intelligence officer from Virginia; and Jessica Watkins, who led an Ohio militia group. They have been charged with seditious conspiracy in one of the most high profile cases to come out of the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. Prosecutors say they spent several weeks amassing weapons, organizing paramilitary training and readying armed teams outside Washington to stop Joe Biden from becoming president. The plot came to a head on Jan. 6, 2021, when Oath Keepers wearing helmets and other battle gear were captured on camera shouldering their way through the crowd of angry Trump supporters and storming the Capitol in military-style stack formation. Prosecutors said that the insurrection, for the Oath Keepers, was not a spur-of-the-moment protest but part of a serious, weekslong plot to stop the transfer of power. Rhodes and his associates, for their part, say prosecutors have twisted their words and insist there was never any plan to attack the Capitol. They say they were in Washington to provide security and preparations, training, gear and weapons were to protect themselves against potential violence from left-wing antifa activists or to be ready if Trump invoked the Insurrection Act to call up a militia. WHAT IS SEDITIOUS CONSPIRACY? The seditious conspiracy law was enacted after the Civil War to arrest Southerners who might keep fighting the U.S. government. The charge has rarely been brought in recent history with mixed results. In this case, prosecutors will try to prove that Rhodes and his associates conspired to forcibly oppose the authority of the federal government and forcibly block the execution of laws governing the transfer of presidential power. It can be tough to prove because prosecutors have to show the defendants did more than talk about using force, that they conspired to actually use it. The last seditious conspiracy cases were filed in 2010, and those ended in acquittal. The last successful seditious conspiracy trial was in 1995, when Egyptian cleric Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman and nine followers were convicted in a plot to blow up several landmarks in New York and New Jersey. It's punishable by up to 20 years behind bars. HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear an appeal by the Connecticut State Police Union in its challenge of a police accountability law that allows public disclosure of certain state trooper personnel files and internal investigation reports. At issue were documents in internal probes that end with no finding of wrongdoing. The union argued the 2020 state law violated the 2018-2022 troopers' contract by stripping away its exemptions from state freedom of information laws and allowing such documents to be publicly released. Union officials say troopers oppose the law because it allows records involving unfounded allegations to become public, possibly tarnishing a troopers reputation despite no findings of wrongdoing. The Supreme Court did not say anything about the case in rejecting it among a host of others, as is typical. The decision upholds rulings by lower federal courts that upheld the state law. Andrew Matthews, executive director of the state police union, said the decision is going to have a chilling effect. Now youve got troopers that are reactive instead of proactive, for the most part, because they dont want to get involved in things where people are going to make false, malicious allegations against them, and then the press is going to write about it, even if it's unfounded or not sustained or theyre exonerated because its completely false," he said. Matthews added that troopers will continue to do their jobs but remain upset that state officials eliminated contract provisions they agreed to during contract negotiations. State Attorney General William Tong's office, which defended the accountability law, released a brief statement Monday saying it was pleased the Supreme Court left lower court rulings intact. A message seeking comment was left for state police. The union argued the law violated the contracts clause of the U.S. Constitution, which says states cannot pass laws impairing contracts. But there are exceptions, including if a law was passed for a good public purpose, which state officials argued. Proponents of the 2020 law, which included many other reforms, said it answered the calls for reform, including accountability and transparency, after the police killings of George Floyd and other Black people. Members of the Elkhorn Veterans of Foreign War Post 6375 are trying to breathe new life into their post building at 16 S. Broad St., which has been a staple in Downtown Elkhorn for about 75 years. The Elkhorn VFW post members are in the process of renovating and rehabilitating the building that was constructed by World War II and Korean War veterans in 1949. The members started raising money for the project about five years ago and began the renovation work about two years ago. James Chochola, post commander, said the purpose of the renovations is to maintain the building and to keep it operational for future use. Bottom line is were trying to save the building, Chochola said. Truth be told, we probably could have sold this building and moved somewhere else but we felt it was our obligation to keep the tradition going because it was built by veterans. Some of the work that has been completed to the building includes installing a new roof, adding new furnace and air conditioning units, installing a new lighting system, renovating the restrooms to make them more handicap accessible, installing a third restroom in the lower level of the building and renovating two office spaces on the second floor, which is rented by two insurance companies. Thats our main source of revenue, Chochola said of the renovated office spaces. It was a big project, but it paid off. We own the building, but it takes money to keep it going. The VFW members also recently installed a wheelchair lift to the back of the building. The wheelchair lift still has to be inspected by the state before it can be used. Originally, we were going to put an elevator in, but that really turned out to be cost prohibitive so we came up with the idea of of a chair lift, John Giese, former post commander, said. We contracted with a company. However, supply chain issues really slowed it down. Naturally, we had to prep the building for it, too. So that meant knocking out a wall, putting in an elevator shaft, digging a pit underneath. Were finally to the point where were only waiting on a state inspector. Michael Serpe, post quartermaster, estimates that the group has spent about $150,000 on the building renovations so far, and about $100,000 worth of work still needs to be completed to the building including renovating the kitchen area, dining hall and bar area. I know its a lot, but its been needing to be done, Serpe said. The post needs to be remodeled. Raising money for renovationsThe VFW has raised money for the renovations by collecting donations and conducting raffle drawings for a Corvette, Humvee and rifles. The only time people see us besides Memorial Day and funerals is when were out there begging money from the public, Giese said. Were not raising money to buy beer for ourselves. Every cent is going into the post. Gary Holden, vice commander, said people often ask them about the status of the projects. Holden said he is excited that several of the planned projects have been completed. Every year at the different events where weve held raffles, people say, Well, did you get an elevator yet? Its been years and years and you keep reporting to them, Well, we just havent raised enough funds, and then finally funds come along, said Holden. So this year were happy to say we have a chair lift installed. Future plans for the buildingThe VFW plans to use the renovated building to host more events such as wedding parties, fish fries, smelt fries and family activities. The building also is used by other local veteran organizations. Just in general, were trying to be more active and giving back to the community, which is why were trying to renovate this place and make it some place people want to come, Chochola said. Thats kind of our long-range goal. Serpe said he also would like to use the building as a welcome center for veterans. We want to make it a home for veterans who have served in a conflict and make them feel welcomed, as well, Serpe said. Thats ideally what this is for, veterans who have served in a conflict, whether theyre young or old. Service to the communityMembers of the Elkhorn VFW attend veteran funerals, provide scholarships to high school students, serve as color guards at Elkhorn High School sporting events, help fund other community organizations and projects, and attend community events. The organization also informs veterans about the programs and services that are available to them and where to go to apply for benefits. Theres a whole array of help and benefits available to veterans, but 90% of them dont know about it and thats one of our jobs, Giese said. Were very good at getting people the help they need. Every veteran we talk to, any question they have, we can answer it for them or we can get them to a source that can help them and take care of whatever the problem is. Looking for more membersThe Elkhorn VFW post currently has about 100 members and is looking for more members. Anyone who has served during a military conflict is welcome to join. The group currently is looking for more members who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Its a very active recruiting effort here, and weve gotten quite a few newer members unlike a lot of other posts which are folding or in the process of folding due to a lack of members or participation, Chochola said. Were pretty blessed here, because we got some movers and shakers who are out there actively seeking members, being involved in the community. The Elkhorn VFW meets 6 p.m. during the fourth Monday of the month at the post building. The meetings usually include social hour, dinner and formal discussion. For more information about joining or donating funds, call 262-949-1821 or send an email message to elkhornvfw6375@gmail.com. We welcome potential members to come down here, and we welcome everybody from every background, Serpe said. If theyre a conflict-involved veteran, we would love to see them. Chochola said joining VFW allows veterans to meet with each other and share stories. They can go to all these resources, but nothing replaces the camaraderie and being with somebody who has pretty much experienced the same things they have, Chochola said. Its a lot easier for them to talk, and I think its a lot more comforting for them to have some time with the other guys and to feel free to talk about whatever they want to talk about. Swedish scientist Svante Paabo won the Nobel Prize in medicine on Monday for his discoveries on human evolution. His work shows how our immune system works differently from our long-ago ancestors, the Nobel group said. New methods Paabo has led the development of new methods that permit researchers to compare the genes of modern humans, also known as Homo sapiens, and that of some human relatives, like the Neanderthals and Denisovans. Scientists first found Neanderthal bones in the mid-19th century. But looking at their genetic code, or DNA, helps them fully understand the links between species. Paabo studies the time when modern humans and Neanderthals went separate ways as a species. That was around 800,000 years ago. Anna Wedell is chair of the Nobel Committee. She said, "Paabo and his team also surprisingly found that gene flow had occurred from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens, demonstrating that they had children together during periods of co-existence. This movement of genes between ancient human species affects how the immune system of modern humans reacts to infections, such as the coronavirus. People outside Africa have 1-2 percent of Neanderthal genes. Discovery of a new human species Paabo and his team also recovered some DNA from a tiny finger bone found in a cave in Siberia. This led to the recognition of a new species of ancient humans they called Denisovans. Wedell described this as "a sensational discovery." With that information, researchers showed Neanderthals and Denisovans to be related groups. They split from each other around 600,000 years ago. Denisovan genes have been found in up to 6 percent of modern humans in Asia and Southeast Asia. "By mixing with them after migrating out of Africa, Homo sapiens picked up sequences that improved their chances to survive in their new environments," said Wedell. For example, Tibetans share a gene with Denisovans that helps them live in high mountain areas. Nils-Goran Larsson is a Nobel Assembly member. He told the Associated Press, Svante Paabo has discovered the genetic makeup of our closest relatives. And the small differences between these extinct human forms and us as humans today will provide important insight into our body functions and how our brain has developed and so forth." Paabo was surprised to learn of his win on Monday. He thought something had been broken in his summer house when he got the call from the Nobel committee. Father and son both Nobel winners Paabo, 67, did his work at the University of Munich and at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany. Paabo is the son of Sune Bergstrom, who won the Nobel prize in medicine in 1982. The Nobel Foundation says this is the eighth time that the son or daughter of a Nobel prizewinner also won a Nobel Prize. David Reich is a geneticist at Harvard Medical School. He said by recognizing that DNA can be preserved for tens of thousands of years and developing ways to recover it Paabo and his team created a completely new way to answer questions about our past. Their work, he added, led to "explosive growth" of ancient DNA studies. Katerina Harvati-Papatheodorou is a professor of paleoanthropology at the University of Tubingen in Germany. She said the award draws attention to the importance of understanding human evolution to gain insights about human health, such as COVID infections, today. The medicine prize begins a week of Nobel Prize announcements. The prizes carry a cash award of nearly $900,000. Im Jill Robbins. David Keyton, Frank Jordans and Laura Ungar reported on this story for the Associated Press. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. ________________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story evolution n. a process of gradual change that takes place over many generations, during which species of animals, plants, or insects slowly change some of their physical characteristics species n. class of plants or animals whose members have the same main characteristics and are able to breed with each other. occur v. to happen sensational adj. so remarkable that it causes great excitement and interest. sequence - n. a DNA sequence is the order in which the elements making up a particular gene are combined insight n. knowledge and understanding ________________________________________________________________________ What do you think of this story? We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is a blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Ukrainian forces have broken through Russian defenses in the important southern Kherson area. It is Ukraines biggest gain in the south of the country since the war began. Ukraine gave no official confirmation of the gains. But a Russian military spokesman admitted that a Ukrainian tank offensive had advanced along the Dnieper River's west bank and recaptured several villages along the way. Kherson is one of the four areas in Ukraine that Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed last week. They were annexed after a vote controlled by Russia. Western nations call it a false vote conducted at gunpoint. The annexation threatened to push the conflict to a dangerous new level. It also led Ukraine to apply for fast-track NATO membership. Ukraine has been pushing its counter-offensive in the Kherson area since the summer. The advance in the south came after its troops hit Russian supply lines, cut off larger Russian forces, and forced them to withdraw. It is similar to the military actions that have brought Ukraine major gains in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian media on Monday showed an image of Ukrainian troops displaying flags at the village of Khreshchenivka. It is the same area of Kherson where Ukrainian troops have broken through Russian lines. Oleh Zhdanov is a military expert based in Kyiv. He told Reuters, "The fact we have broken through the front means that ... the Russian army has already lost the ability to attack, and today or tomorrow it could lose the ability to defend. A Russian-supported official in Kherson, Kirill Stremousov, admitted in a video Monday morning that the Ukrainian forces have broken through a little deeper. However, he said that everything is under control and that Russias defense system is working in the area. Uncertainty in Russia As Russian forces continued to withdraw, its parliament started to approve treaties for four areas of Ukraine to join Russia. However, Russian officials and lawmakers gave conflicting signals on exactly what areas are being annexed. Ukraine's push to recapture territory in recent weeks has also caused Russians to question and criticize the war. Tens of thousands of Russian men left Russia after Putin announced a military call-up on September 21. Many have flown to Turkey, one of the few countries that has maintained air connections with Russia. Others have fled in cars, creating a lot of traffic at Russian borders to Finland, Kazakhstan, Georgia, and other places. Russia's military difficulties have led to a change in state medias presentation. "For a certain period of time, things won't be easy for us. We shouldn't be expecting good news right now," said Vladimir Solovyov, a presenter on state TV. Ramzan Kadyrov is the leader of Russia's Chechnya territory. He demanded the commander of Russian forces in eastern Ukraine lose his medals and be sent to the front line. Kadyrov also said Russia should use a nuclear weapon. Putin and other officials have suggested that they could use nuclear weapons to protect Russian territory, including the newly annexed areas. But they have not said they will do so. Im Dan Novak. Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by The Associated Press and Reuters. ______________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story annex v. to add to a country, state, etc.; to take control track n. the course along which someone or something moves or proceeds Christian Unity and the Syriac Churches Hagia Sophia. (AINA) -- In June 2021, Patriarch Sako shared a reflection on the difficulty of achieving unity among Christians, especially in Iraq. The differences among the churches are not only doctrinal, but also canonical and liturgical, geographic, ethnic, and linguistic. We strive to overcome doctrinal disagreements and some liturgical and canonical divergences, but these other factors are not intended to be overcome. Instead, they ought to remain with us and to be understood not as obstacles to our communion in faith and sacraments. In response to His Beatitude, I proposed that consideration be given to a concrete outline of Christian unity that is compatible with our ancient differences. The most important aspect of unity that Christians seek is Eucharistic communion -- the celebration of the Eucharist together. Few obstacles stand in the way of this. Although divided by schisms lasting even more than 1,500 years, Christians of the apostolic churches hope for and very well may see the restoration of communion among them in our own lifetimes. After the restoration of Eucharistic communion will likely follow certain forms of administrative union. These may reflect liturgical, canonical, geographic, ethnic, linguistic, and other historical differences. Such administrative unions represent a unity far less important than Eucharistic communion. But they are quite concrete, and therefore they provide us with a somewhat more concrete vision of our future unity. In what follows, I'd like to reflect on the administrative shape of Christian unity, especially among the Syriac Churches. At the start, I must limit the scope of my considerations to the four communions of apostolic churches, such as understood by the Catholic Church: Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and the Assyrian and Ancient Churches of the East. Also, I am not anticipating a revolution in ecclesiology but will consider what lightest of administrative reforms might yield the clearest expression of Christian unity. Consequently, I begin with the observation that most Syriac-speaking Christians belong to three historic churches that date to apostolic times: the Church of Antioch, the Church of the East, and the Church of Malankara. These historic churches are sadly divided among all four communions today -- the Church of Antioch into five different patriarchates, the Church of the East into three (though hopefully soon to be two), and the Church of Malankara into six structures that remain within the four communions and several others in communion with Protestant Christians. The clearest expression of Christian unity through administrative reform would likely come from the restoration of unity within each of these three historic churches. In other words, the five patriarchates of Antioch would form a single Church of Antioch with one holy synod and one patriarch. The Assyrian and Chaldean churches would form a single Church of the East with one holy synod and one catholicos-patriarch. And the Syriac Churches of India would do the same. Even after overcoming the outstanding doctrinal disagreements among the communions, several further divergences will need to be addressed in the case of each historic church. I'll examine the case of each church one-by one. The Church of the East The situation with the Church of the East is likely the most straightforward. Both Assyrians and Chaldeans practice the East Syriac Rite and share much of their cultural heritage in common. Assyrians and Chaldeans list the sacraments differently, but the International Dialogue Commission between the Catholic Church and the Assyrian Church of the East has already indicated that this divergence is no obstacle to the restoration of communion. Assyrians and Chaldeans also count ecumenical councils differently, but one may hope that this and other issues of universal significance, such as how to reconcile divergent pastoral responses to failed marriages, will find similar resolution through the international dialogues. However, consensus achieved at the international level that declares a divergence no obstacle to communion may not suffice for the administrative union of historically divided churches under one holy synod and one patriarch. So how the Church of the East will teach her faithful about the sacraments, about ecumenical councils, about the prerogatives of the Roman Pope, etc. will need to be worked out between Assyrians and Chaldeans specifically, in light of the consensus achieved by the international dialogue undertaken with Rome. For the Church of the East, two issues will likely require special care: liturgical uniformity and ethnic identity. The East Syriac Rite has suffered some degree of Latinization among the Chaldeans. The Chaldean Church, especially under the leadership of Patriarch Sako, has also undertaken multiple liturgical reforms, even introducing the new Anaphora of St. Thomas. On the Assyrian side, the Assyrian Church of the East and the Ancient Church of the East continue to grapple with divergent calendars. Bringing all three patriarchates together will demand patience and flexibility from all, careful study of historical sources, especially in the correction of Latinizations, and, most likely, openness to some liturgical variation and to the good that each variant brings to the Church of the East in the service of her mission. Ultimately, ethnic identity may not be an issue for the Church of the East. Some Chaldeans distinguish between an Assyrian ethnic identity and a Chaldean ecclesial identity and accept both. Others identify with a Chaldean ethnicity. Disagreements over ethnicity among Assyrians and Chaldeans and other partisans, and even over the nature of ethnic identity, have caused some tension. In ancient and medieval times, the Church of the East embraced many ethnicities throughout her canonical territory of Asia east of the Roman Empire. In the same way, the Church of the East need not in the future identify herself with any one ethnicity. I have proposed that the Church of the East adopt an ecclesiologically appropriate and non-ethnic appellation for her faithful: Eastern Apostolic, analogous to "Armenian Apostolic" and the less-used "Georgian Apostolic," whose churches are also ancient catholicosates. The Church of Antioch The case of Antioch is more complex. Her faithful belong to five different patriarchates and practice three rites -- Byzantine, Maronite, and West Syriac. Moreover, the Chalcedonian-Miaphysite schism that originally divided the Melkites and Maronites, on the one hand, from the Syriacs, on the other, has lasted for more than 15 centuries. Thankfully, this division has begun to heal. Results of the Joint Commission of the Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches have found little reception. But the situation may soon change. In the wake of the recent decision by Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople to restore communion with and grant autocephaly to the faithful of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the partial schism and invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation that followed, the Orthodox Church has begun to retrieve an ancient understanding of oikonomia -- not merely as lenience in pastoral care for individual souls but as a method to restore and preserve Christian unity. This retrieval may soon bear fruit for dialogue among all the apostolic churches. Similar to the Church of the East, after consensus regarding issues of universal significance is achieved by the international dialogues and after the five patriarchates of Antioch have further refined this consensus for application within a single Church of Antioch, two more issues will likely require special care: how to handle liturgical diversity and Antioch's canonical territory. Regarding the first, liturgical diversity will remain with Church of Antioch. Her faithful will not abandon their rites to adopt another or to blend them into one. Maybe each rite will undergo some adaptation to overcome incompatibilities among them or to draw them closer together. For example, the Maronites could correct Latinizations. Likewise, the Byzantines (today Antiochian Orthodox and Melkite Catholics) could give more prominence to the Anaphora of St. James. But each rite will persist. Given such diversity, the Church of Antioch will need to consider how to preserve her unity. For example, she could retain three separate hierarchies that form one holy synod and that elect one patriarch, perhaps rotating the patriarchal office among the three rites. (The rotation could be simple or complex.) Alternatively, she could go further and integrate her dioceses around the world, so that each diocese has one pre-eminent bishop and additional auxiliary bishops of the other rites, according to needs of each diocese, who together serve the faithful. The pre-eminent episcopal office in each diocese might likewise rotate among the rites of the faithful in the diocese, unless tradition advises to the contrary -- for example, the Archbishop of Mt. Lebanon should always be a Maronite. I don't think that there are many mutli-rite dioceses at present, but the bi-ritual Archeparchy of Kottayam could serve as a model for tri-ritual dioceses in a united Church of Antioch. Since 2009, the Orthodox Church has sought to integrate her diasporic jurisdictions around the world into 13 regional synods. If a united Church of Antioch sought to integrate her own Byzantine, Maronite, and Syriac jurisdictions around the world, the Antiochian Byzantine (Melkite) jurisdictions would forego integration with the other Byzantine jurisdictions in favor of integration with Maronites and Syriacs. Whether tri-ritual Antiochian jurisdictions in the US and Oceania would enjoy the same degree of autonomy that the Antiochian Orthodox jurisdictions have today would need to be determined by the united Church of Antioch. These proposals constitute just one strategy through which the Church of Antioch might address the liturgical diversity among her faithful. To clarify Antioch's canonical territory, it is best to begin with the territorial claims of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch, because she already enjoys communion with the neighboring churches of Constantinople and Jerusalem. In Turkey, Constantinople claims East Thrace and geographic Anatolia, while the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch claims the territory from Cilicia through Turkish Kurdistan. (The Church of Georgia claims Turkey's small Tao-Klarjeti region). Syria and Lebanon indisputably belong to Antioch, while Israel, Jordan, and Palestine belong to the Church of Jerusalem. In recent years, the Greek Orthodox Church of Jerusalem has supported a diocese in Qatar, despite the traditional assignment of the Arabian Peninsula to the canonical territory of Antioch. The Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch also claims Iraq and Iran. However, these countries indisputably belong to the canonical territory of the Church of the East. Respect for the canonical territory of the latter need not entail the loss of Antioch's dioceses in Iraq. The Church of the East could allow other churches to support local hierarchies to serve their faithful but insist that, within her canonical territory, Eastern Apostolic bishops enjoy precedence in relation to equally ranked bishops of other churches. Consequently, the Church of Antioch might support jurisdictions around the world but limit her territorial claims to Cilicia, Lebanon, Syria, Turkish Kurdistan, and the Arabian Peninsula. (Relatedly, if the Armenian See of Cilicia ever accepts the status that the other major Armenian sees understand her to have -- i.e. not as autocephalous but as an autonomous church under the authority of Etchmiadzin -- and if, according to the desire of many Armenians in North America, Cilicia allows the duplicate Armenian jurisdictions that she supports there to integrate with the jurisdictions under the authority of Etchmiadzin (without thereby ceasing to support the Western Armenian traditions and historical memory preserved by the former), then Cilicia might claim jurisdiction over all and only Armenians within the canonical territories of Antioch and Cyprus. This would require Cilicia to surrender to Etchmiadzin the Armenian dioceses in Iran, and in turn for Etchmiadzin to surrender to Cilicia the Armenian jurisdictions in Damascus and the Arabian Peninsula.) The Church of Malankara Finally, we get to the case of the Church of Malankara. Like the Church of the East and unlike the Church of Antioch, this church suffered no lasting internal schism until the 16th century. Like the Church of Antioch and unlike the Church of the East, the faithful of this church are divided between different rites -- East Syriac and West Syriac. And unlike either Antioch or the East, the Church of Malankara has never enjoyed an undisputed status of autocephaly (i.e. complete administrative independence). Until the 16th century, the Church of Malankara belonged to the Church of the East. After the arrival of the Portuguese in India and their attempt to subjugate the Syriac-speaking Indian Christians to the Latin hierarchy and Latin Rite, the church split into those who preserved a Latinized version of the East Syriac Rite and became subordinate to Rome and those who adopted the West Syriac Rite and became subordinate to the Syriac Patriarch of Antioch. Since then, both communities have divided further, but all or nearly all parties have regained some autonomy, in different degrees, in relation to the Churches of Rome, Antioch, and the East. There have also been efforts to de-Latinize the East Syriac Rite in India. Administratively, Christian unity might find the clearest expression among the Indian Christians of the Syriac Rites if they joined to form a single bi-ritual autocephalous church with one holy synod and one catholicos-patriarch. Tradition suggests a title for the latter such as follows: Catholicos-Patriarch of Kochi-Angamaly and Gate of All India. Malankara Christians already have experience with one bi-ritual diocese -- the Archeparchy of Kottayam, which belongs to the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church and which serves the strictly endogamous subset of Malankara Christians called the Knanaya within the Catholic communion. A united Church of Malankara could integrate all her jurisdictions to form bi-ritual dioceses in India and worldwide, perhaps alternating the patriarchal and local episcopal offices between the rites, as I proposed for the Church of Antioch. A rather recondite question remains regarding who would grant to the Church of Malankara the status of autocephaly. In the Catholic communion, only Rome can establish new patriarchates. In the Orthodox Church, Constantinople claims the sole right to grant autocephaly. The Church of Russia disputes this, as has the Church of Serbia in a somewhat half-hearted manner by her recent actions in relation to the Orthodox Church in North Macedonia. Among the Oriental Orthodox Churches, it seems that the church to whose territory the new church formerly belonged has this right. In this case of India, after the restoration of Eucharistic communion among the apostolic churches, it would seem most appropriate for the Churches of Rome, Antioch, and the East to act together to grant autocephaly to the Church of Malankara. Such joint action would bring clarity to the situation. But at least one more significant administrative challenge remains. India is also home to several million Latin Catholics and several million Protestant Christians. Because the Latin Church has so significant a presence in the country, India could be treated as "shared canonical territory" -- shared between the Church of Malankara and the Church of Rome -- such that equally ranked bishops of the Syriac Rites and of the Latin Rite would have equal status. India is not the only country for which to consider the possibility of "shared canonical territory." The Sinai Peninsula could be shared between the Churches of Alexandria and Jerusalem, the former caring for Alexandrian Rite faithful and the latter for Byzantine Rite faithful. And Central Europe -- specifically Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania -- could be shared between Rome, on the one hand, and Constantinople and her daughter churches, on the other. Although making a territorial claim upon India, the Church of Rome could take other steps to support the autocephalous status of the Church of Malankara. For example, Rome could suppress the non-resident patriarchal title of the Latin Archbishop of Goa and either suppress the primatial title of the same archbishop or amend it with the addition of "for the Latins." Rome also supports in India two national episcopal conferences: the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) for India's Latin Rite bishops and the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), which gathers all of India's Catholic bishops and whose leadership rotates among the three rites. If not detrimental to India's Latin Catholics, Rome could do away with the CCBI and propose that the presidency of the CBCI be assigned always to the Catholicos-Patriarch and the vice-president be elected by India's Latin bishops. This would secure the ecclesiastical authority of the Church of Malankara in India. For the sake of completeness, I will note that the Catholic Church also supports regional and continental "superconferences" -- formally, "international meetings of bishops' conferences." Just as the presidency of the CBCI could be assigned to India's Catholicos-Patriarch and its vice president be elected by India's Latin bishops, so too could the presidency of Africa's superconference (SECAM) someday be assigned to the Patriarch of Alexandria and its vice president be elected by all its bishops. Likewise might Asia's superconference (FABC) someday include and its presidency be assigned to the Catholicos-Patriarch of the East and its vice president be elected by all its bishops. To Rome and Constantinople might be assigned, maybe in an honorary way, the presidency and vice presidency of Europe's superconference (CCEE). Also in Europe, Rome could establish a regional superconference for Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia, Croatia, and Slovenia, whose presidency might someday be assigned to the Patriarch of Serbia. Finally, because Cyprus, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and North Macedonia each have their own autocephalous churches, it would make sense for them to have their own episcopal conferences as well. This discussion of the administrative shape of Christian unity in the Syriac Churches has been both very detailed and highly speculative. I have made some concrete proposals. However, my purpose is not to shape our future unity but to offer these speculations as an invitation to anticipate our future unity more concretely and consequently to desire it more fervently. Christ Himself prayed that we may be one. To the prophet Habakkuk, the Lord said: "Write the vision; make it plain upon tablets" and "Still the vision awaits its time; it hastens to the end -- it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay" (Habakkuk 2:2-3). Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV), part of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, is tying up with Tyler Hill Partners, a renewable energy firm, to generate up to 1GW/2GWh over the next five years at an investment of GBP1 billion ($1.12 billion). The collaboration is aimed at the development of FRV TH Powertek Limited, a platform dedicated to designing, constructing and operating a portfolio of battery energy storage-system projects in the UK. Battery Energy Storage projects play a critical role in ensuring a more stable and resilient electricity network with lower emissions. A significant growth is expected in installed capacity of battery storage projects to keep the UK on track to meet its Net Zero targets for 2050. New green technologies Fady Jameel, Deputy Chairman and Vice Chairman of Abdul Latif Jameel, said: "At Abdul Latif Energy we are committed to establishing collaborations with best-in-class partners where opportunities could arise to support our efforts towards mitigating the impacts of climate change. The introduction of FRV TH Powertek Limited reflects our commitment to developing new green technologies that contribute to achieving the UKs ambitions to become a net zero emitter and power its green industrial revolution. Felipe Hernandez, General Manager of Engineering of FRV and FRV-X, said: Thanks to the close collaboration with Tyler Hill Partners that has resulted in this new platform, FRV TH Powertek Limited, we now have an increasing presence in the UK. This consolidates the expansion of FRV's portfolio of energy storage projects internationally and, more specifically, in the UK." Ravishankar Tumuluri, Director of Tyler Hill Partners said: We are excited to partner with FRV to establish this platform in the UK, which synergizes the skills and capabilities of both organisations and contributes to the decarbonisation of the UK energy sector.-- TradeArabia News Service Author Andrea Bartz likes the quote Your friends will help you move, your best friend will help you move the body. This macabre sentiment provides a backdrop to her recent thriller We Were Never Here. The book, set partly in Wisconsin, tells the tale of two best friends sexually attacked while on vacation together two years in a row. On both occasions, the attacker is killed and the women dispose of the body, which ends up testing their relationship in expected, and unexpected ways. Bartz said amid this thrillers entertaining elements are subtexts and political undertones on how society and the media looks at violence involving women. She will discuss her book during an event at the Wisconsin Book Festival later in October. Q: I really loved your book. It had me absurdly asking myself if any of my female friends were maybe psychotic killers as this book is very much about a longtime friendship between two women gone very bad. How do you describe the novel? A: We Were Never Here is about two globe-trotting best friends back in Wisconsin who love traveling all over the world together. They are on a trip of a lifetime in Chile and they end up killing a backpacker in self-defense and ditching the body. (The friends) have to decide how to handle the event. The eerie thing is that this is not the first time that one of their trips ended up in bloodshed. Now the friendship is stretched to the limit. Where can their friendship go from here when their freedom and maybe their lives are at stake? Q: What inspired this novel? A: Before the pandemic, I worked as a travel journalist. I was traveling all over the world ... solo travels or with female friends. When I told people what I did or where I was going, I would often get this response: Youre really brave to do that, suggesting that by traveling the world and experiencing these incredible places as a woman, I was inviting violence or endangering myself. Nobody says that to men theres a default assumption that only women need to worry about protecting themselves on vacation. I started asking myself what it would look like for a female traveler to be the instigator of violence. How would it help or hurt them that nobody would ever think a woman could be behind it? Q: Did you travel to the places described in the book? A: I did take a trip with a good friend to Chile in the Elqui Valley the vacation these women (in the book) are on. We were in this little town that was totally empty ... (and we met) this awesome guy named Stephen. The three of us just got along so well. We hung out together the entire time we were there. He was so lovely and respectful and not creepy that we had a running gag: That he was secretly a psycho, waiting for the chance to kill us and steal our money. On the last night, we made a joke that Stephen was running out of time. But then I said, Stephen, youve known us as long as weve known you ... what makes all of us so confident that we should be afraid of you and not vice versa? Someone said that sounds like one of your books. The idea was kind of born out of that. Q: Youve written other novels, and it seems like a recurring theme is having strong female characters, which is certainly the case in We Were Never Here. How was this novel similar to your other ones, or different? A: All of my books kind of focus on complex friendships between women. For me, that was important because there are a lot of books in the psychological thriller genre that center on romantic relationships: The perfect marriage, the jealous ex-wife, the mistress, and so on. I didnt see a lot of female friendships being represented. I was single through a lot of my 20s and early 30s many of my friendships were just as complex and interesting as a romantic relationship. All of my books also tend to bring the reader into a close-knit and closed-door world. (An earlier book,) The Herd, is a murder mystery set in an exclusive, boujie all-female work space in New York City another exclusive world thats interesting and prides itself on being inclusive, but (isnt). We Were Never Here was my most intimate book yet, because I was trying to explore the world of this one friendship. One big difference is that the first two books were murder mysteries. This one is not a mystery you know who did it. Writing it was a different experience because it was less about slowly unmasking the mysterious person, and instead starting with the crimes and analyzing different questions: Will they get away with it? What will it do to their friendship? It was a different challenge. ... Q: I believe you live in New York, correct? What is your connection to Wisconsin? Much of the book takes place in Milwaukee and several chapters happen on a lake Up North. A: I was excited to set a book there. I was born and raised in Brookfield. I have a lot of friends who still live in Milwaukee. My parents have a little cottage on a lake in Oconto County. I had a lot of the ideas (for the book) when I was spending time there in the summer of 2019. It was really fun to get all the details right of everything in Wisconsin the (Milwaukee) vibes and how its different from other cities. Q: I found it interesting that throughout the book theres this undercurrent of distrusting technology that Siri is always listening and the women are careful what they say over their cellphones. Is this a larger comment about technology in our lives? A: Its interesting, I wrote the book before Roe vs. Wade was overturned. (Now women feel they have) to take fertility apps off their phone and be careful what they say over text about a pregnancy, which is pretty terrifying. For me, a lot of the reasoning was: How would people really get away with murder in 2019? All my books are set in the modern era. It was a lot easier to get away with murder in the 70s. Now we live in sort of a police state where were constantly under surveillance. I wasnt consciously trying to say anything about technology, but there might be some commentary that is rooted in all my beliefs and opinions. I think that its hugely problematic that things that women say in their personal lives can be used against us. Q: What do you plan to discuss during your event at the Wisconsin Book Festival? A: This will be my first book event in Wisconsin for We Were Never Here! Im excited to talk about the inspiration for and themes within the book. I love talking about craft and how I plan and write my books, how I edit them and the business of publishing and what it means and takes to get a book published. Q: Whats next for you? A: My next book is coming out in June and its called The Spare Room. Its about a down-and-out woman who moved to Philadelphia with her fiance right before the pandemic. He calls off the wedding and shes trapped and friendless and on lockdown in the new town. She rekindles a friendship with someone from her past who extends an invitation for her to stay with her for a few weeks. She moves into this mansion in Virginia with her now glamorous childhood friend and her husband. She stays longer than intended and gets enmeshed in their secrets, lies and betrayals. (Theres) a big friendship component as well, as a romantic component. We Were Never Here is big and broad and sweeping in setting, while this one is very insular and claustrophobic. Q: Are you finding that pandemic thrillers are becoming a book genre? A: Im very curious to see. People joke that the pandemic has been terrible and they dont want to read anything about it. I understand that, but I feel like we have enough distance from the Spring of 2020 ... its beginning to feel interesting to remember what our day-to-day was like (then). The things we were collectively going through. The book is about how the pandemic forced us to hit pause and realize, My life doesnt have to be what I thought it was. I cant imagine that Im the only author out there who wanted to capture that in a literary (form). Eds: This story was supplied by The Conversation for AP customers. The Associated Press does not guarantee the content. (THE CONVERSATION) As the coronavirus spread rapidly around the world last year, the United Nations warned that the economic disruption of the pandemic could result in famines of biblical proportions. The choice of words conveys more than just scale. Biblical stories of devastating famines are familiar to many. As a scholar of the Hebrew Bible, I understand that famines in biblical times were interpreted as more than mere natural occurrences. The authors of the Hebrew Bible used famine as a mechanism of divine wrath and destruction but also as a storytelling device, a way to move the narrative forward. When the heavens dont open Underlying the texts about famine in the Hebrew Bible was the constant threat and recurring reality of famine in ancient Israel. Israel occupied the rocky highlands of Canaan the area of present-day Jerusalem and the hills to the north of it rather than fertile coastal plains. Even in the best of years, it took enormous effort to coax sufficient sustenance out of the ground. The rainy seasons were brief; any precipitation less than normal could be devastating. Across the ancient Near East, drought and famine were feared. In the 13th century B.C., nearly all of the Eastern Mediterranean civilizations collapsed because of a prolonged drought. For the biblical authors, rain was a blessing and drought a curse quite literally. In the book of Deuteronomy, the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible, God proclaims that if Israel obeys the laws, the Lord will open for you his bounteous store, the heavens, to provide rain for your land in season. Disobedience, however, will have the opposite effect: The skies above your head shall be copper and the earth under you iron. The Lord will make the rain of your land dust, and sand shall drop on you from the sky, until you are wiped out. To ancient Israelites there was no such thing as nature as we understand it today and no such thing as chance. If things were good, it was because God was happy. If things were going badly, it was because the deity was angry. For a national catastrophe like famine, the sin had to lie either with the entire people, or with the monarchs who represented them. And it was the task of prophets and oracles to determine the cause of the divine wrath. Divine angerand punishment Famine was seen as both punishment and opportunity. Suffering opened the door for repentance and change. For example, when the famously wise King Solomon inaugurates the temple in Jerusalem, he prays that God will be forgiving when, in the future, a famine-stricken Israel turns toward the newly built temple for mercy. The Bibles association of famine and other natural disasters with divine anger and punishment paved the way for faith leaders throughout the ages to use their pulpits to cast blame on those they found morally wanting. Preachers during the Dust Bowl of 1920s and 1930s America held alcohol and immorality responsible for provoking Gods anger. In 2005, televangelist Pat Robertson blamed abortion for Hurricane Katrina. Today some religious leaders have even assigned responsibility for the coronavirus pandemic to LGBTQ people. In the book of Samuel, we read that Israel endured a three-year famine in the time of David, considered Israels greatest king. When David inquires as to the cause of the famine, he is told that it is due to the sins of his predecessor and mortal enemy, Saul. The story illustrates how biblical authors, like modern moral crusaders, used the opportunity of famine to demonize their opponents. For the biblical writers interested in legislating and prophesying about Israels behavior, famine was both an ending the result of disobedience and sin and also a beginning, a potential turning point toward a better, more faithful future. Other biblical authors, however, focused less on how or why famines happened and more on the opportunities that famine provided for telling new stories. Seeking refuge Famine as a narrative device rather than as a theological tool is found regularly throughout the Bible. The writers of the Hebrew Bible used famine as the motivating factor for major changes in the lives of its characters undoubtedly reflecting the reality of famines impact in the ancient world. Similarly, the book of Ruth opens with a famine that forces Naomi, the mother-in-law of Ruth, and her family to move first to, and then away from, Moab. The story of Ruth depends on the initial famine; it ends with Ruth being the ancestor of King David. Neither the Exodus nor King David the central story and a major character of the Hebrew Bible would exist without famine. All of these stories share a common feature: famine as an impetus for the movement of people. And with that movement, in the ancient world as today, comes vulnerability. Residing in a foreign land meant abandoning social protections: land and kin, and perhaps even deity. One was at the mercy of the local populace. This is why Israel, at least, had a wide range of laws intended to protect the stranger. It was understood that famine, or plague, or war, was common enough that anyone might be forced to leave their land to seek refuge in another. The principle of hospitality, still common in the region, ensured that the displaced would be protected. [Over 100,000 readers rely on The Conversations newsletter to understand the world. Sign up today.] Famine was a constant threat and a very real part of life for the ancient Israelite world that produced the Hebrew Bible. The ways that the Bible understood and addressed famine, in turn, have had a lasting impact down to the present. Most people today may not see famine as a manifestation of divine wrath. But they might recognize in famine the same opportunities to consider how we treat the displaced, and to imagine a better future. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. The Conversation is wholly responsible for the content. Eds: This story was supplied by The Conversation for AP customers. The Associated Press does not guarantee the content. (THE CONVERSATION) Robert Keith Packer, a 57-year-old Virginian, achieved a measure of infamy at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot when he was photographed wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with a skull and crossbones along with the words Camp Auschwitz. Work Brings Freedom, the front said, a translation of the notorious motto Arbeit macht frei that appeared on the gates of Auschwitz and several other Nazi concentration camps. On the back was the word Staff. Packer was sentenced to 75 days in prison on Sept. 16, 2022, for his role in the riot he was tried for his actions, not his clothing. But his sweatshirt was far from the only Holocaust reference on Jan. 6 or in its aftermath. It is a reminder of something that is all too apparent to scholars of the Holocaust, like myself: Americans are willing to trivialize the genocide by turning it into a tool for their own political goals. As a historian who has written about the American role in liberating concentration camps at the end of World War II, I have spent a great deal of time thinking about how Americans have and have not talked about the Holocaust in the decades since. There is little evidence that outright denial of the Holocaust is widespread. Instead, the problem is a poor understanding of the tragedy, including this countrys response the focus of a remarkable documentary series, The U.S. and the Holocaust, which recently premiered on PBS. Forgetting exclusion The contemporary American story of the Holocaust focuses on the U.S. role in helping to bring the Nazi regime of terror to an end. A more nuanced understanding of Americas reaction is less comforting. The PBS series, produced by acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns, Lynn Novick and Sarah Botstein, traces what Americans knew about the vast and murderous campaign against civilians in Nazi-occupied Europe in the 1930s, as a flood of Jewish refugees attempted to flee Hitlers Germany. The U.S. did not enter the war to stop Nazi persecution of Europes Jews. In fact, a majority of Americans opposed entering the war at all until 1940, a year before the Pearl Harbor attack brought the U.S. into the conflict. Many Americans had no interest in protecting the rights of religious or ethnic minorities at home or abroad. Antisemitism and anti-foreign prejudice was a core element of American society in the early 20th century, just as white supremacy was. These forms of hatred and exclusion drew from the same well of supposedly scientific beliefs about racial hierarchy. While the U.S. allowed almost 125,000 Jewish refugees to enter the country during the years between Hitlers rise to power and the start of the war, many more were denied entry or left in limbo. Remembering liberation This part of the countrys response has been largely forgotten, in favor of a story where the U.S. plays a more heroic part. The liberation of the concentration camps in the spring of 1945 plays a central role in public memories of the war today, along with the Allied landings in Normandy on D-Day in 1944. The hall through which millions of visitors have entered the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington is lined with flags of the liberator divisions of the U.S. Army. There is no question that the arrival of American forces at Buchenwald, Dachau and other camps across western and southern Germany saved thousands of prisoners facing murder or death by starvation and sickness. In reality, however, the systematic murder of Europes Jews had largely concluded, and primarily took place hundreds of miles to the east in what is today Poland, Ukraine, Russia and the Baltic states. By the time American forces landed in western Europe, Europes Jewish population had already been reduced to a few small pockets. Within weeks of the arrival of American troops at Buchenwald, Americans saw images and newsreel film of the horrors of the camps. However, it took decades for the story of camp liberation to become the most important act of the war in Europe in Americans minds. It would not be until the 1980s, when the liberators and survivors were entering old age, that the Holocaust was firmly entrenched in American school curricula and popular culture. One important consequence of this long wait was that the stories told by and about liberators changed in the intervening decades. As Americans became more familiar with the events of the Holocaust through television and films, liberator stories began to grow more similar to each other and merged into a general story of the Holocaust, which increasingly focused on the horrors of the death camps in German-occupied Poland. Liberators of Buchenwald describing the event decades afterward, for example, thought they remembered gas chambers at the camp, when in fact there were none at that location. Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland the most infamous camp facility, with its gates saying Arbeit macht frei came to represent all concentration camps in American memory, and even in family stories. In 2008, for example, then-presidential candidate Barack Obama told a crowd about his great-uncles participation in the liberation of Auschwitz. Auschwitz was actually liberated by the Soviet army in January 1945. Obamas campaign later clarified that his great-uncle, Charles Payne, participated in the liberation of Ohrdruf, a subcamp of Buchenwald. Talking about the Holocaust today The centrality of camp liberation to the American story of the Holocaust has real consequences. It turns the Holocaust into a story of American triumph over evil and overlooks the countrys refusal to do more to save the victims. This simplistic version of a complex history has allowed many Americans to use the Holocaust and Nazism as shallow symbols for any kind of government action they oppose and deem oppressive, particularly public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Opponents have compared infectious disease specialist Dr. Anthony Fauci to SS physician and torturer Dr. Josef Mengele. Representative Marjorie Greene has compared face mask rules to forcing Jews to wear Star of David badges, and Capitol police agencies to the Nazi-era Gestapo. As Burns documentary emphasizes, the U.S. is once again in a time of national reckoning about race, discrimination and histories of oppression. In the final minutes of The U.S. and the Holocaust, viewers see marchers in Charlottsville, Virginia, chanting Jews will not replace us, television pundits opining about the threat of cultural decline through immigration, the 2018 attack on the Tree of Life congregation in Pittsburgh, and the Jan. 6 riot. There in the crowd, wearing his sweatshirt, is Robert Keith Packer. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. The Conversation is wholly responsible for the content. MONDAY, Oct. 3, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- U.S. health officials have warned that numerous brands of brie and camembert cheese may contain Listeria, a potentially dangerous bacteria. Old Europe Cheese Inc. has recalled more than 20 brands of cheese from retail and wholesale stores nationwide and in Mexico after six people in six states were infected with a specific strain of Listeria. Stores that sold the potentially contaminated cheese include Albertsons, Giant Foods, Lidl, Stop & Shop and Whole Foods, the company said. The recalled cheeses were sold under numerous brands: Black Bear, Block & Barrel, Charmant, Cobblestone, Culinary Tour, Fredericks, Fresh Thyme, Glenview Farms, Good & Gather, Heinens, Joan of Arc La Bonne Vie, Lidl, Life in Provence, Market 32, Matried, Metropolitan, Prestige, Primo Taglio, Red Apple Cheese, Reny Picot, St. Randeaux, St. Rocco, Taste of Inspiration and Trader Joe. Products have best-by dates ranging from Sept. 28 to Dec. 14. The cheeses may be linked to the outbreak, according to interviews and laboratory data, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Friday. During an inspection of the company's Michigan facility, U.S. and state health officials found the outbreak strain of listeria in a sample from the floor in a cooling room, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Five people were hospitalized in the outbreak. In interviews, four people reported eating brie or camembert cheese. Those sickened were in California, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey and Texas. While many people get mild food poisoning symptoms after Listeria infection, pregnant women, newborns, adults 65 and older and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness. Symptoms typically start within two weeks of eating the contaminated food, but can happen as early as the same day or even 10 weeks later. When Listeria infection spreads beyond the gut, it can be severe and lead to hospitalization and death. Listeria can also cause pregnancy loss. Typical symptoms can be headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, convulsions, fever and muscle aches. Anyone who has purchased the cheese should not eat it. Throw it away and clean your refrigerator, containers and any surfaces that may have touched the recalled cheese, the CDC advised. Listeria can easily spread to other foods and surfaces. Call the doctor if you have symptoms of severe Listeria illness after eating the cheese. Call your states health department if you have questions about cases in your state. More information The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has more on Listeria. SOURCE: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, news release, Sept. 30, 2022 A Beloit man was sentenced last Wednesday to 20 years in federal prison for sex trafficking a woman and a teen girl, authorities reported. Cory Hereford, 51, also was sentenced to 20 years of supervised release on convictions after a four-day trial in February of sex trafficking, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, maintaining a property for the purposes of distributing and using controlled substances, and of having committed sex trafficking of a minor while being a person previously convicted of a crime that required registering as a sex offender, U.S Attorney Timothy OShea said in a statement. Hereford conspired with co-defendant, Tonyiel Partee, of Janesville, to recruit a woman struggling with drug addiction to engage in commercial sex, and also enticed a 16-year-old girl with access to drugs. In some instances, he threatened to withhold heroin to coerce them into prostitution for his profit. This defendant preyed on vulnerable young women, and he cruelly exploited their addictions for his own profit, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. This conviction shows that the Civil Rights Division is committed to seeking justice for survivors of sex trafficking. We will work tirelessly to hold traffickers accountable for these heinous crimes that erode the safety of our communities. The case was investigated by the Janesville Police Department, with the assistance of the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and the Rock County Sheriffs Office. Valeria Lopez, a high school senior visiting from Madisons sister city in Mexico, said she was struck by how much she has in common with students in Madison. Now we understand why its called sister cities, she said. It was one of the observations by the group of 10 students from Tepatitlan, Mexico, one of Madisons 10 sister cities throughout the world. This is the first time high school students have come to visit and is the start of an exchange program in the 10th anniversary year, said Sal Carranza, president of Madison/Tepatitlan Sister Cities. We really wanted to do this. We have probably talked about it for the last four years. Then the pandemic happened, Carranza said. The goal is to bring new students each year and also to send Madison students to Mexico. Initially the plan was to have three students visit, but after 150 applied for the opportunity, it was decided that the number would be narrowed to 10, Carranza said. The 10 high school seniors are from the Preparatoria Regional de Tepatitlan, which is part of the University of Guadalajara System. They were accompanied by a teacher from the high school who also is the mother of one of the girls, two other teachers and the principal of the high school. They spent about a week in Madison. They met with members of Raza United, which is the Latinx-focused student association at East High School. They shared a meal, toured the school and had a discussion about their lives in Madison and Tepatitlan. They also attended the Homecoming pep rally at East. The group from Mexico went to UW Madison and Madison Area Technical College and other points of interest including the state Capitol, Monona Terrace, State Street and the Dane County Farmers Market. They visited Badger Rock Middle School to hear about the sustainable agriculture program that is part of the curriculum and stayed there for dinner provided by the volunteers in the program. They also went to Dane Arts Mural Arts and then to Centro Hispano to hear about the programs that they provide and see the murals that DAMA painted there. The visitors were guests at the anniversary banquet Friday . Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, Ambassador Claudia Franco Hijuelos, head consul of Mexico in Milwaukee, and Jaime Mireles, director of Preparatoria Regional de Tepatitlan, also attended. The visits to UW-Madison and MATC gave the students, who had to have a 3.5 or higher grade-point average to be accepted for the trip, a chance to learn about the different opportunities for studying in Madison. The (UW) campus is gorgeous. Its like a movie, Laura Enriquez said. Attending a university like that is a dream. Enriquez, who in interested in becoming an industrial engineer, and other students said they will explore the idea of coming here to study. Kaylee Bolanoz particularly liked MATC and she was intrigued by the idea of studying there for two years and then transferring to UW-Madison. The students talked about the friendliness they encountered. I didnt expect that, especially in Chicago, where the students spent some time after arriving there. Its a big city, Christopher Ledesma Rios said about people they met. They were really, really lovely with us. Carranza said nonprofits are not as common in Mexico, so the group found the visit to Centro Hispano valuable and hope to use some of the knowledge they gained since the Tepatitlan high school is community focused. Mireles said the students will give presentations about their experience when they return. The partnership between Madison and Tepatitlan, which is often called Tepa, was started in 2012 and officially approved by Madison and ratified by the Mexican government in 2014, and is sponsored by the Latino Chamber of Commerce. Officials from Mexico also are visiting Madison briefly this week. As part of the partnership, one of the first projects was a mural painted on the facade of an elementary school in Tepatitlan by then-president of Dane Arts Madison Arts Sharon Kilfoy, who is a member of the Madison/Tepatitlan Sister Cities board. Madison also sponsored an after-school arts program for disadvantaged children in that school for many years. To reciprocate, Tepatitlan sent one of its top muralists, Guadalupe Rios Cordoba, who painted and donated a large mural in the Madison Municipal Building. In spring of 2020, students from Madison under the guidance of DAMA artists painted half of a mural depicting Madison on canvas, and then the DAMA artists took it to Mexico and students at the Preparatoria Regional de Tepatitlan painted the other half with their rendering of what their city has to offer. School Spotlight: Adventures in learning, inside and outside the classroom Each Monday, the Wisconsin State Journal features a story about learning in Wisconsin. Here are School Spotlight stories from the past year. Garry Wilson, CEO of easyJet holidays, the first major UK tour operator to offset carbon emissions from package holidays, will join World Travel Markets Responsible Tourism Adviser Harold Goodwin on the Sustainability stage. Wilson has been heading easyJet holidays since it launched in 2019, with the aim of being an industry leader in sustainability. He will be on stage to show that it is possible to be a major tour operator and care about the planet, sharing easyJet holidays mission to make sustainable travel accessible to everyone without costing the earth. The operator is committed to offsetting 100% of carbon emissions as well as forming close relationships with the people and communities in its destinations. The company has said it wants to raise the bar, positively shake things up and lead the industry in sustainability. Sustainable tourism Wilson joined easyJet holidays from TUI Group, where he was Managing Director for Group Product and Purchasing, heading a global team across 20 countries. He has worked extensively with overseas Governments, PwC and the Travel Foundation to create sustainable tourism policies to promote major economic growth and positive social change whilst minimising negative environment impact. Goodwin said: Garry has long been a leader in responsible tourism and can talk about why it makes business sense and what the trends are that will shape things over the next few years. Our conversation will range from changes in aviation ground transportation, accommodation and the visitor experience in an increasingly competitive world. Encouraging change Juliette Losardo, WTM Exhibition Director, said: Garry has held senior positions in tour operating for 25 years and has worked extensively with overseas governments and the travel industry to create tourism policies that encourage positive social and environmental change while generating economic growth. In this session, he will show that it really is possible for a major tour operator to offer sustainable holidays at affordable prices so people can enjoy their perfect holiday secure in the knowledge that theyve made the most sustainable possible choice for them. News of Wilsons appearance comes as the easyJet holidays sister company, the airline easyJet, launched a detailed plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions within the next 30 years, with the ultimate ambition to be flying on zero carbon emission hydrogen aircraft. The session will take place on Tuesday November 8, 11.30-12.00 on the Sustainability stage.-- TradeArabia News Service Madison is offering a chance to meet with three nationally renowned finalists for the Lake Monona Waterfront design challenge Monday night at the Central Library. It's the first of three public events on the design challenge. In July, a special city committee chose Agency Landscape + Planning, of Cambridge, Massachusetts; James Corner Field Operations, of New York; and Sasaki, of Denver, from among 14 heavyweight firms responding to a request for qualifications to craft a master plan to reimagine the Lake Monona waterfront between Olin Park and Williamson Street. The events include: A Design Challenge kick-off at 6 p.m. Monday at the Madison Central Library, Rooms 301-302, 201 W. Mifflin St. Design teams will livestream to the event and introduce themselves and their teams' perspectives on the master plan development. Design Challenge check-in, 6 p.m. Nov. 7 at Monona Terrace, Lecture Hall, 1 John Nolen Drive. The teams will present initial thoughts and concepts online in developing a master plan vision for the waterfront. Design Challenge master plan presentations, 6 p.m. Jan. 26, at the Parks Division's Olin Park Facility, 330 E. Lakeside St. The teams will present in person their proposed master plans. The events will also be streamed to the Madison City Channel for remote viewing. The special committee is expected to recommend a preferred master plan to the mayor, City Council and Park Commission by Sept. 1, 2023. A simple change to zoning rules enacted in the mid-1960s to limit impacts of renters could increase housing choice, equity and supply, the citys Building Inspection Division says. The city could change zoning code restrictions impacting about one-third of the citys land mostly in lower-density districts with single-family homes that ban more than two unrelated renters from living together. In the entire city, owner-occupied homes can have up to five unrelated people living together, officials said. The code is inequitable because it favors homeowners over renters, city zoning administrator Katie Bannon said. It has a disproportionate impact on lower-income residents who are more likely to be renters and more likely to have roommates to afford rent. It has a disproportionate impact on people of color, who are more likely to be renters with lower income. The result limits housing choice and makes it more expensive, Bannon said. Currently, the code bases restrictions around a definition of family. Under the code, family is an individual or two or more persons related by blood, marriage, domestic partnership or legal adoption living together as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit, including foster children and up to four roomers with exceptions in nine residential districts that allow only one roomer if the property is occupied by renters. In practice, it bans more than two unrelated renters from living together in those nine residential districts distributed across the city. Instead, the city could change the family definition and base occupancy limits solely on number of people per bedroom, per square foot, or other objective measure that would allow reasonable use of property while preserving resident quality of life, officials said. Or the city could set a maximum number of adults regardless of relationships to each other or whether renter or owner, while allowing an unlimited number of dependents, they said. We are in a housing crisis, Bannon said. We need more housing, and we need more affordable housing. This is a simple code change that can increase housing supply and choice without additional construction or need for subsidy. We can increase equity in Madison. We can regulate the number of adults that can safely live in a housing unit without discriminating against renters and residents living together in different family structures than allowed by the zoning code, she said. The city is in such a different place as a society than in 1966, city building inspector Matt Tucker said. This is a relic of history thats not serving the community well anymore. Its unclear how many more people could obtain housing, but there will be many more options, Tucker said. Plan Commission OK The Building Inspection Division made a presentation at a special meeting of the Plan Commission on Thursday evening. At the end of the meeting, the commission informally but unanimously endorsed changing the current definition of family and encouraged staff to prepare alternatives and use caution to ensure against unintended impacts. Some peoples quiet existence may change, commission chair Ledell Zellers said. We dont want to have a lot of negative, unintended consequences. Aimed at students The family definition was likely added to the zoning code in 1966 to limit the impacts of student renters on what policy makers then considered to be a more desirable family structure married couples with children who were homeowners, Bannon said. I believe policy makers differentiated between owner-occupied and rentals because they believed that rentals have a more negative impact, she said. They also knew if a landlord could rent to more unrelated individuals, the rent per person could be less, making the housing more affordable. Currently, the zoning code restricts the number of people who can live together based on the zoning district, whether they are renters or homeowners, and if theyre related to one another. About one-third of the citys land is zoned to prohibit more than two unrelated renters from living together. But in those same areas, owner-occupied housing units can hold up to five unrelated people. Other districts allow a maximum of five unrelated people, regardless of renter or owner occupancy. In all areas where housing is allowed, there is no limit to the number of residents in a household if theyre all related to one another, other than safety-related limits in the building code and minimum housing and property maintenance code. In 2019, 52.7% of whites, 30% of Hispanics, and just 15.3% of Blacks owned homes in Madison, according to the Wisconsin Policy Forum. Weaponized code The current code not only limits housing choice and makes it more expensive, but it also has been weaponized against people throughout the city, Bannon and Tucker said. The Building Inspection Division gets about 20 complaints a year, some openly racist and others using coded racist language, Bannon told the commission. Sometimes, the rules inspire creepy behavior with neighbors jotting down license plate number of those staying at a residence or tracking whether boyfriends or girlfriends stay overnight, she said. The family definition was an attempt to prevent negative impacts from student renters, not to protect residents from unsafe living conditions, Bannon said. The Building Inspection Division has found that some landlords use the occupancy limits to prevent renters from complaining about unsafe living conditions, knowing that if residents complain, they can lose their housing, she said. The housing market has changed so that pressures of student housing on surrounding neighborhoods is less than it once was, Bannon said. Now, complaints about not meeting zonings family definition are spread fairly evenly throughout the city, she said. The city already has other tools to protect quality of life and safety, such as property maintenance ordinances, disturbing the peace ordinances and parking rules. After gathering input from the commission and City Council members, the division would like to craft a change as soon as feasible for introduction to the council, followed by a hearing before the Plan Commission and council consideration, Bannon said. A shortage of paid caregivers for people with disabilities and older adults is causing an unsustainable strain on unpaid family caregivers, according to a survey released Monday by Wisconsin advocacy groups. Family members provide 80% of the care for people with disabilities and older adults, with 60% of the family members spending more than 40 hours a week providing care, said the survey of nearly 500 caregivers by the Survival Coalition of Wisconsin Disability Organizations. About 20% of the family caregivers are working less at their regular jobs and about 40% have left the workforce because of caregiving duties, the survey found. Wisconsins workforce is losing human capital because we havent valued the paid caregiving workforce that allows families to continue careers and jobs, Patti Becker, Survival Coalition co-chair and director of program operations for the Community Living Alliance, said in a statement. Anne Karch, of Madison, said her daughter Rachel used to have a live-in overnight caregiver and a team of weekday caregivers. Now there is no live-in caregiver, so Karch and her husband must care for Rachel overnight and some weekdays. My husband and I are exhausted, and I have had to cut back on most of my volunteer work because I cannot fulfill my obligations to others, Karch said in a statement. In August, a report by the states long-term care associations said the caregiver vacancy rate at assisted living facilities and nursing homes was 27.8%, compared to 23.8% in 2020. The state had 23,165 caregiving jobs open, but there were only 19,600 residents looking for jobs, the report said. Wisconsin needs a path towards a long-term sustainable workforce in order to meet the needs of its aging population, LeadingAge Wisconsin CEO John Sauer said in a statement at the time. Wisconsins 2021-23 budget provided an additional $104 million in all funds for caregivers. There was a $54 million rate increase in Family Care in summer 2021, and a 5% rate increase started in January. The long-term care associations said more needs to be done, such as reforming payments, reducing administrative burdens and providing more flexibility to recruit and retain workers. Similar points were made in a September 2020 report by the Governors Task Force on Caregiving. The state Department of Health Services said that by 2024, it plans to set minimum rates that managed care organizations have to pay providers of services people receive in their homes. The aromas of roasted meat and vegetables filled Marlborough Park Sunday afternoon as people gathered for a Pachamanca, a traditional Andean harvest festival, this one held to honor the new relationship between Madison and sister city Cusco, Peru. Its really just about community and building that together, said Monica Wahlberg, a board member of the nonprofit Mundo Esperanza, one of the events hosts. Mundo Esperanza, created to promote awareness of Indigenous communities, hosted the event with the Madison Cusco Sister City Alliance. The Pachamanca included a feast, music, traditional Peruvian clothing, games and more. Madison and Cusco officially became sister cities in January 2022, though the efforts began in 2004, when Victor Villacrez, the founder of Mundo Esperanzo, began the discussions with a cousin who lives in Peru. Through that work, Mundo Esperanza was born. The groups mission is based on an ancient Indigenous prophecy about unification, the connecting of communities between South and North America: When the condor and the eagle fly together again, great harmony and balance will grace the land, bring hope to the people and healing energy to the planet. This was the second Pachamanca hosted in Madison. Its traditionally performed at harvest time, a way to give thanks to the Earth for the food it produced. Pachamama means Mother Earth in the ancient Quechua language, and Pachamanca is the word for the harvest celebration, which also translates to earth oven. The group spent seven hours the day before the roast preparing the food, much of which was donated. A pit was dug into the ground and then covered with a base of stones and plantain leaves to create the oven. Layers of food with hot stones between them were then placed inside potatoes first, then the meat, including chicken, pork, beef, lamb and some guinea pig (a traditional Peruvian dish), and finally vegetables, fruit and herbs, such as squash, onion, carrots, cilantro, mint and pineapple. Among that layer were the fava beans, which are often the first bite, to see whether the roast is done. The completed roast was then covered with wet cloth or paper to trap the heat before being covered in dirt. Flowers were then placed on top of the mound, a symbol of the celebration. Sundays Pachamanca feast took a little over two hours to cook. Removing the food was a group effort, as people lifted out the layers and placed them into serving dishes. Its part ceremony and part feast, and Villacrez described it as an offering to the Earth. Elia Armacanqui-Tipacti, a professor at UW-Stevens Point and an elder Indigenous Andean, acted as the shaman for the ceremony after the food was removed from the oven. Those in attendance joined hands in a circle around the oven as Armacanqui-Tipacti gave the blessing. First we thank Pachamama for the goodness of the food that we are providing, Armacanqui-Tipacti said. She used purple corn, native to Peru, and pumpkin seeds meant to represent Wisconsins Indigenous people, along with other natural goods during the blessing, and she poured a sip of chicha into the soil, a sweet, spiced Peruvian drink, before taking a sip herself. The meal brought together about 50 community members from all backgrounds. Some who joined were from Peru or had Peruvian heritage; others were just curious about the culture. Its definitely really nice to have a part of our ancestry that we can show to them, because obviously Peru is a long ways away, said Katrina Wichlacz, who is Peruvian and was at the event with her husband, Bob Wichlacz, and their two young daughters, Valerie and Carolyn. We hope to someday take them to Peru, but to have some stuff like this to see, especially like the blessing, is really nice, she said. Felix Aguero grew up in Peru, and he and his wife Angela Aguero found out about the Pachamanca the night before. Its just really surprising to see something like this in Madison, Angela said. Felix had only participated in a few Pachamancas back home in Peru, saying it was more of a rural tradition. He said having the event in Madison was important so that people can learn about each other and each others cultures. People like Grant Frautschi, who loves to travel and helped lift the food out of the pit on Sunday. Its important for people to be welcomed into other peoples cultures. Even when youre at home in Wisconsin, weve got a variety of people from all over the world that come, especially to Madison, and make this their home, and this is a great way for people to come together and learn about things they dont know about, Grant said. Thats what you need. The event is also a promotion of sustainability, showing respect to the natural resources we use every day, something organizers said was more important now than ever. It gets back to a more sustainable way of living and life and caring for Mother Earth, said Missy Tracy, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation and a board member with Mundo Esperanza. Its absolutely critical right now. Money from the event will also help Mundo Esperanzas efforts, including a tree planting imitative in Peru and the U.S. Most of the utensils used on Sunday were either reusable or compostable. Tracy said it was also critical to incorporate Indigenous people when working to care for the Earth and be more sustainable. I mean, who better to ask than the Indigenous people who have existed there since time immemorial? Everyone received a glass off chicha with the meal, and some played sapo, a Pervuian game similar to bag toss or darts. And almost everyone had seconds. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) A Minnesota judge who struck down key restrictions on abortion in the state has rejected a bid by a county prosecutor who hopes to appeal the ruling. Ramsey County District Judge Thomas Gilligan ruled Tuesday night that Traverse County Attorney Matthew Franzese is not entitled to intervene in the case. Franzese had hoped to pursue an appeal after Attorney General Keith Ellison declined to challenge Gilligan's previous ruling that Minnesota's restrictions were unconstitutional. Earlier in July, Gilligan threw out a series of laws enacted over the years, including a mandatory 24-hour waiting period, a requirement that both parents be notified before a minor can get an abortion, and a rule that only physicians can perform abortions. His ruling reinforced Minnesota's status as an island of legal abortion in the Upper Midwest following the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down its landmark Roe v. Wade ruling, which legalized abortion nationwide. In deciding not to appeal, Ellison, a Democrat who supports abortion rights, said his office had met its obligation to defend the statutory restrictions. He said the state had already spent enough time and money on the case and was unlikely to win an appeal. In his latest ruling, Gilligan said Franzese waited too long to intervene in the lawsuit, which was filed by abortion rights advocates in 2019. He also said Franzese failed to demonstrate that he had sufficient legal interest in the case to meet the requirements to intervene, and failed to demonstrate that the attorney general's office inadequately defended the challenged statutes. The State should have the ability to speak with one voice and make litigation or public policy decisions without the threat of intervention by county attorneys like Franzese who may disagree with those decisions, Gilligan wrote. Franzese's legal team from the conservative Thomas More Society argued that he was entitled to intervene because he was responsible for enforcing abortion laws in his western Minnesota county, and that he needed clarity from the appellate courts on whether he should follow Gilligan's ruling. The judge disputed that, noting that Traverse is the state's least populous county, no resident there has had an abortion in the last four years and the county has no abortion providers. Franzese and his attorneys did not immediately return messages seeking comment Wednesday, nor did the attorney general's office. But Jess Braverman, legal director for Gender Justice, which represents the abortion rights supporters who sued to overturn Minnesota's restrictions, said she would be surprised if Franzese's team doesn't appeal. The judge's latest ruling means his previous decision expanding access to abortion stands unless and until the appeals court does something different, she said. This story has been corrected to show the name of the legal director for Gender Justice is Jess Braverman, not Jesse Braverman. BERLIN (AP) The leaders of Hungary, Austria and Serbia met Monday in Budapest to find solutions on how to stem the increasing number of migrants arriving in Europe, among them many young men from India. The three leaders agreed to take joint action to control the new arrivals along the migration route that leads through Serbia. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer told reporters after the meeting that the joint action plan would include increased police cooperation along the borders as well as supporting Serbia when it comes to deporting migrants back to their home countries. "We will directly support Serbia to carry out repatriations and not only support technical know-how, but also do everything possible that is necessary, and financially support them, Nehammer said. The Austrian chancellor lauded Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's announcement that by the end of the year Serbia would align its visa policies with the European Union Serbia is an EU candidate country but not a member yet so that the visa-free regime with some non-EU countries is no longer used for migration purposes. We will thus prevent the situation when someone uses Serbia as a country of arrival but not because of their real needs but for illegal migration toward the west, Vucic said. Hungarian President Viktor Orban said with this meeting today, we mobilized a force to defend borders so we decrease the pressure on us and the EU," Serbias Tanjug news agency reported. Among the migrants recently detained in Austria who have applied for asylum to avoid immediate deportation, Indians accounted for the biggest group in September, according government data. Indians are not allowed to enter the EU without a visa but have taken advantage of being able to travel to Serbia which they can enter without a visa. From there, many are trying to reach Western European countries with the help of traffickers. Monday's meeting in the Hungarian capital came after announcements by the Czech Republic and Austria last week that they would launch temporary border controls at their crossings with Slovakia to stop migrants from entering. Jovana Gec reported from Belgrade, Serbia. Follow all AP stories on migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration SALT LAKE CITY (AP) Russell M. Nelson, the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, told members of the faith on Saturday that abuse was a grievous sin that shouldn't be tolerated and would bring down the wrath of God on perpetrators. Though the leader of the nearly 17-million member faith did not mention it directly, the remarks were the first on abuse from a senior church leader since The Associated Press published an investigation into how the church handles reports of sexual abuse when brought to its attention. Let me be perfectly clear: Any kind of abuse of women, children or anyone is an abomination to the Lord, Nelson, who members of the faith believe is a prophet, said in Salt Lake City at a church conference. The AP's investigation found the hotline the church uses for abuse reporting can be misused by its leaders to divert accusations away from law enforcement and toward church attorneys. The story, based on sealed records and court cases filed in Arizona and West Virginia, uncovered a host of concerns, including how church officials have cited exemptions to mandatory reporting laws, known as clergy-penitent privilege, as a reason to not report abuse. Since its publication, the church has said the investigation mischaracterizes its policies, while underlining how its teachings condemn abuse in the strongest terms. Influential church members have historically fought legislative efforts to close the loophole exempting clergy from mandatory reporting requirement. The church has not said whether it will fight reforms lawmakers plan to propose next year. The church has historically used its twice-yearly conference to set a tone for its members, reflect on current events and announce changes in doctrine. Nelson's remarks on Saturday echoed the statements the church has released since the publication of the AP's investigation condemning abuse, while also defending the church's policies. For decades now, the Church has taken extensive measures to protect in particular children from abuse, Nelson, the church's 98-year-old president, said sitting on a stool behind a conference center lectern, imploring listeners to research church policy themselves. Nelson described abuse as an influence of the adversary, employing a term the church frequently uses to describe forces that oppose the gospel and its teachings. Amid the church's insistence that reporting mischaracterizes its sexual abuse hotline, Nelson also said the adversary worked to blur the line between what is true and what is not true. Anti-racism was also a focal point of the opening day of the conference, which is broadcast to church members around the world. Todd D. Christofferson, a high-ranking church official and member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, acknowledged that for much of the church's history, it has been dominated by white North Americans, yet noted its membership had steadily diversified. It has been long prophesied, Christofferson said, that the church would have members from every nation, kindred, tongue. We cannot permit any racism, tribal prejudice, or other divisions to exist in the latter-day Church of Christ ... As our church population grows ever more diverse, our welcome must grow ever more spontaneous and warm, he said. The church has long reckoned with a history of treating people unequally based on their race. It did not grant Black members full access to the church rituals or priesthood rights until 1978 14 years after the Civil Rights Act. Christoffersons remarks came after, for the first time in church history, a Black woman spoke at the conference. Tracy Y. Browning, who was appointed to an an all-women leadership panel focused on families and children earlier this year, devoted her remarks mostly to spiritual matters, imploring listeners to expand Jesus Christs role into their lives. The church has in recent years expanded its partnerships with U.S.-based groups like the NAACP and focused on growing its ranks on the African continent, where it has 5 temples open and 17 planned or under construction. Ronald A. Rasband, another high-ranking church official, spoke of flooding the earth with the Book of Mormon and recounted meeting and gifting the book to leaders in Lesotho and Mozambique. HANSEN Several structures were destroyed in the 2020 Badger Fire that burned 90,000 acres, including two bridges that provided access to single track trails for hikers, bikers, horses and dirt bikes. With the help of a helicopter to do the heavy lifting, two bridges on the Third Fork Trail in the South Hills will soon be ready to use for the first time since a fire in 2020 destroyed them. The work was done through a collaborative effort between the U.S. Forest Service, Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Magic Valley Trail Machine Association, a recreational user group that works to keep access to single track open for dirt bikes and other users. On Saturday, a group of volunteers from the association spent the day prepping the locations for the new bridges. On Sunday, volunteers from the club spent time helping forest service employees while massive beams were flown in by helicopter. Forest Service Recreational Specialist Jed Friedman oversees a crew of two trails technicians to maintain the trails in the South Hills. Friedman said that the contributions of recreation-user groups like MVTMA were essential to getting the work done. With a week and a half heads-up, (they) got 11 people out here helping us do for my two person crew a months worth of work in a day, Friedman said. The group spent the first day gathering rocks and filling wire cages called gabions, which would serve as the foundation and supports for the beams of the bridges. They also widened sections of trail, and brushed back the overgrowth with hedge trimmers, to keep vegetation from encroaching on the trail. Dusti Hall is president of the MVTMA. He grew up riding his dirt bikes in the vast expanse of hills north of Jerome. Hall said the MVTMA has a lot of members participating in volunteer efforts. We do have a pretty good core of people who are willing to come out and volunteer time and put in labor, he said. Restoring access to trail systems like this one is important to MVTMA members, because many forest roads and trails are at risk of being closed to motorized users. It means a lot to use because we lose a lot of access, quite frequently. We lose a lot more than we gain, Hall said. So for us to be able to get some of our trail systems back and connector trails for nice loops means a lot to us. Recreational trail riding has increased in Idaho, along with every other form of recreation, and the activity draws people from across the country to spend multiple days riding. The project used grant money administered by Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, and also from fees derived from the registration stickers each dirt bike, ATV and off-highway vehicles are required to have to use state and federal forest trails. Brian DiLenge is East Region Trails Specialist with Idaho Parks and Recreation. DiLenge was present the first weekend of hard labor. He said it is becoming more common to partner with user groups to get volunteers for trails works. The neat thing is right now there are more users than just one user group getting involved, DeLange said. Between the mountain bikers, the motorcycle guys, the ATV guys, backcountry horsemen, its been a pretty good collaborative of trail users. Funds from the feds are down quite a bit their trail crews arent near as big as they used to be and so now the users are getting more involved and taking more of a seat at the table and getting things going. JEROME Three people were taken to the hospital Sunday night after a head-on crash on Idaho Highway 25 in Jerome County, police say. A 48-year-old Twin Falls woman was driving a Toyota Corolla east in the westbound lanes at about 8:23 p.m. when the vehicle was hit by a Buick Regal at milepost 3.5, according to the Idaho State Police. The driver of the Toyota was wearing her seatbelt and was flown to a hospital. Two occupants of the Buick, a 32-year-old female driver and a 69-year-old male passenger, both from Jerome, were driven to a hospital by ambulance. Both were wearing seatbelts, police said. Traffic was blocked for 1 hours. The ISP was assisted at the scene by the Jerome County Sheriffs Office, Jerome Police Department and the Idaho Transportation Department. The ISP is investigating the crash. I can think of three realistic reasons for the University of Idahos recent memo about abortion. Maybe all these reasons played a role in the decision-making, in some relative mix. You decide. This memo, prompted by the change in Idahos strict anti-abortion law, quickly turned into international news, throwing the university into the brightest spotlight it may ever have seen. That probably wasnt the intent: The spotlight isnt flattering. Its a little hard to imagine many people being encouraged to study or teach at the university after reading about it. Its been less noted but also true that other Idaho institutions have been moving in the same direction; the UI will not be an outlier. The September 23 memo said staffers cannot (at least while on duty) do anything to provide or promote abortion, or speak or write in favor of it, or provide a referral, or direct students to sources of information about it outside the university, or provide training for someone to provide the procedure, or contract with anyone who does provide abortions. (Say: Is the medical education exchange at risk?) Because the law refers to prevention of conception the memo said the subject of whether all forms of birth control should be avoided is unclear and untested in the courts. Since violation is considered a felony, we are advising a conservative approach here, that the university not provide standard birth control itself. (How long before attorneys and insurers of pharmacies all over Idaho reach the same conclusion?) Condoms apparently are still okay for distribution as long as theyre used for protection against sexually transmitted disease and not for birth control. (Yes, they actually said this.) The situation is serious, the memo noted, as consequences that could result from violations include felony conviction (with imprisonment and fines), loss of employment and bar on future employment with the state and who knows what else. Im not arguing their analysis is wrong, especially with the comment, The language of this statute is not a model of clarity. No kidding. So why might top university officials (this must have had the awareness, at least, of the president) do this? I can think of three reasons. First, as a genuine warning about legal liability. This is legitimate enough, as a UI spokesman said, Employees engaging in their course of work in a manner that favors abortion could be deemed as promoting abortion. While abortion can be discussed as a policy issue in the classroom, we highly recommend employees in charge of the classroom remain neutral or risk violating this law. We support our students and employees, as well as academic freedom, but understand the need to work within the laws set out by our state. Second, as a move to placate the anti-abortion and right wing culture crowd, which has a heavy representation in the Idaho Legislature. The memo may generate some (very mildly) warm feelings in the majority caucuses next session. Those, of course, wont get the university far. So also maybe, third, arriving as this memo does about a month before the November election, there was some incentive to kick into higher visibility the state of abortion-related law in Idahomaybe encouraging voters to react against it. Abortion may be a major political factor this fall. Even the Biden White House weighed in: ...nothing under Idaho law justifies the universitys decision to deny students access to contraception. [Editors note: Thats debatable.] But the situation in Idaho speaks to the unacceptable consequences of extreme abortion bans. The overwhelming majority of Americans believe in the right to birth control, as well as the right to abortion, without government interference. The White House would not have delivered such a strong comment about an internal memo from a remote mid-sized state university, in a small and non-battleground state, unless it saw serious political advantage to be gained. Idaho Democrats may notice that too. Former 5th District Republican Congressman Denver Riggleman does not care what political party you identify with or if you identify with any party at all. He doesnt care about your religion, race, ethnicity, sexuality or tax bracket. He just wants you to consider the data his team of intelligence analysts gathered working for the House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Riggleman, a former naval intelligence officer, has collected that data in The Breach, a new book that should be required reading for every American who believes in democracy. It uses actual White House correspondence records to link the main players in the Capitol attack. Working from a trove of text messages, cell phone calls and other forms of digital communication turned over to the committee by former President Donald Trumps Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, the book moves step-by-step through a coordinated plan to overturn the legal and legitimate results of the 2020 presidential election. The proven connections stretch from the White House to members of Congress to white supremacist paramilitary groups, conspiracy theorists, disinformation experts and even Christian nationalists. Riggleman asks only that readers look at what he has documented. The conclusions they reach are up to them. Understanding how a network of politicians, extremists and propagandists worked together to bring about the Capitol attack is the way Americans grasp what must be done to keep it from happening again. I think the only way that we can help turn the tide for some of these people is to use [the] data to show how theyre being mined for money by grifters and charlatans, Riggleman said. The power of crazy QAnon conspiracies shows through in the messages to and from the White House, Riggleman said. The Breach demonstrates in text messages and cell phone calls a worrisome vein of white supremacy that infects both Congress, the military and law enforcement. One of the most troubling threads winding through the book is the way Christian nationalists, particularly Ginni Thomas, the wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, drove the idea of insurrection. In one text to Meadows, Thomas bemoans the fact that some Republicans have accepted Bidens election. The fracturing now. The stabbing in the back of anyone daring to still say there seemed to be fraud. All the Rs congratulating Biden, Thomas texts. Your/his loyalists cant take this. It is so evil. Thank you for being in my choir then too!! This is a fight of good verses (sic) evil, Meadows replies. Evil always looks like the victor until the King of Kings triumphs. A push for theocracy is just one more un-American thing that drove the January 6 attack, but it is one that Riggleman found especially disturbing. Youre having people saying that the Bible has to be completely aligned with government, he told The Daily Progress. I love freedom of religion, but the Constitution and separation of church and state is something we need to protect at all costs. There are calls for an international investigation into the death of lawyer Paul Gicheru in Kenya. The lawyer, who was being prosecuted by the ICC, died suddenly at his home on Monday 26 September. He was accused of bribing several witnesses to refuse to testify against William Ruto, on his role in the 2007-2008 post-election violence, to the point of making it impossible to pursue investigations. The verdict in this case was imminent. The death of the accused, in mysterious circumstances, will lead to the closure of the case. In this context, opposition leader Raila Odinga, as well as the deceaseds lawyer at the ICC, believe that the investigation cannot be conducted by the Kenyan police alone. In this context, for the opponent Raila Odinga, an international investigation is needed. None of these murders have been solved, said Makau Mutua, his spokesman. It is therefore unreasonable to imagine that the investigation into the death of Mr. Gicheru can be properly conducted in Kenya without the risk of a cover-up. Therefore, we want a team of international investigators to be set up to find out what happened to him. The spokesperson explains that this death has consequences beyond Kenya, as it will lead to the closure of the Gicheru case at the ICC. The verdict, which was imminent, will not be pronounced However, this verdict could have given the opportunity to the international justice to re-examine the case of William Ruto, the two cases being closely linked. The end of the immunity of the former vice-president of the Republic of Angola has revived the debates and focused the attention of the society that shows interest in following the next chapters of this matter. Manuel Vicente has been protected by legislation that grants him immunity for up to five years after holding office, as well as being a member of parliament, and the term expired in September. The former Sonangol strongman is accused of corrupting the former Portuguese prosecutor, Orlando Figueira, with the payment of 760,000 to dismiss two inquiries in which he was being investigated. Manuel Vicente is also implicated in the case against Generals Generals Manuel Helder Vieira Dias Junior Kopelipa and Leopoldino Fragoso do Nascimento Dino, accused of crimes of embezzlement, criminal association and money laundering. In an article published this week, jurist and researcher of University of Oxford Rui Verde states that the end of the immunity of Vicente gives Angola the opportunity to affirm itself as a state of law. Ruined buildings, empty stores, piles of scrap metal and burnt-out cars where kids come to play: in northern Mozambique, the port city of Mocimboa da Praia is slowly catching its breath, one year after being liberated from the jihadists. The poor, Muslim-majority province of Cabo Delgado, bordering Tanzania, has been rocked since 2017 by the jihadist rebellion of the Shebab, affiliated with the Islamic State. In August 2020, after three years of offensives repelled by the Mozambican army, they had set up their headquarters and imposed their terror in Mocimboa. A year later, the army and Rwandan forces called in by the government of President Filipe Nyusi liberated the small coastal city. Since then, it has been slowly licking its wounds. It is still rare to see vehicles on the surrounding roads. The jihadists are now multiplying their attacks on civilians in the south of the province. But about 130,000 displaced people have returned to their homes in the northern districts of Palma and Mocimboa, according to the Rwandan army, which controls these two areas. Dhows have resumed their back-and-forth movement on the Indian Ocean. The beach is once again invaded by fishermen with their arms full of rays and colored fish pulled out of the turquoise water. Now that the worst is over, the returnees are living in the ruins while waiting for humanitarian aid that is slow to come. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain For more than 3 million followers on TikTok, Nick Cho is their "Korean Dad." He walks his followers through a back-to-school shopping trip and wonders if they should buy "anime backpacks." He does a finger heart as he cooks Korean ramen for two in stone pots with slices of cheese. But lately, he has also been serving as a counselor of sorts. He described what it's like to be "in a deep pit of sad" following last year's mass shooting in the Atlanta area in which eight people, including six women of Asian descent, were killed. He has helped people cope with lonelinessequating it with hunger. For Father's Day this year, he talked about what it means to have a complicated relationship with one's dad. "I see you're suffering. I know that with all the stuff people are going through, you don't always feel like it's important. It's just your thing to endure," Cho, sitting in front of his backyard, told his followers. "But I want you to hear that it's not just your thing. Your pain is important because you're important." Cho, a 48-year-old who came to the United States from Korea in 1975 as a baby and initially found fame through his coffee business, did not expect to open "the Pandora's box," as he called it, spending hours reading and responding to people messaging him about their concerns. But Cho has been a part of a growing movement of Korean Americans openly talking about their mental health, breaking the long-held stigma in the community. Buoyed by everything from BTS to Zoom therapy and nudged by the stress of the pandemic, Korean Americans are seeking more mental health help than ever before, with one Koreatown clinic seeing its number of clients nearly double over the last four years. The skyrocketing need, along with the continuing scarcity of therapists competent in Korean language and knowledgeable in Korean culture, has strained the community's ability to get mental health care. Still, community organizations and experts are optimistic that this shift in attitude about mental health will last. "People don't know they need help. They don't know that they are drowning.... They think it's their lives," said Katherine Yeom, the executive director of Korean American Family Services in Koreatown. But the last few years, accentuated by the pandemic, made them "realize that maybe they do need to get help." Koreans have long had a euphemism for seeking therapy or getting mental health care: going to a "white house" on a hill. Going to therapy, Yeom said, has long been associated with "people locked up in white clothes." The stigma, mixed with the "hustle" immigrant culture that emphasized work at the expense of self-care, meant Korean Americans had sought far less professional mental health services than other groups. But as Koreans started to shift their attitude toward mental health five to 10 years ago, so did Korean Americans. Panic and anxiety disorder became household terms, as Korean celebrities started to talk about their experiences of coping with mental illness. Although some have long decried them as manufactured and artificial, K-pop artists and celebrities in recent years began having frank discussions about their mental health, through mediums such as podcasts in which stars talk of their personal struggles with depression. Dr. Oh Eun-young, among the most prominent psychiatrists in Korea, now appears on at least four Korean variety and reality shows, counseling celebrities and families alike. She even appeared on a K-pop audition show, serving as a counselor and an "informal mom" to more than 80 contestants. "That also is helping our Korean American community open [their] eyes, that if there are people like Oh, they could help me," Yeom said. "When they see TV, they see hope." Korean-language media in the U.S. have also programmed more discussions around mental health. Radio shows regularly feature people like Yeom, answering listeners' questions about how they are feeling. In often soothing TikTok videos, Joanne Lee Molinaro, known as the Korean Vegan, talks of her struggles with eating disorders, relationships and mental health as she cooks dishes such as seaweed-wrapped fried tofu. She wants to create a dinner table atmosphere with her videos, she said. "You don't sit there at a dinner party and talk about adding one tablespoon of garlic.... You talk about things that are memorable, funny, emotional," Molinaro said. "It's therapy for me. It's healing for me and maybe it could be for you." When Soo Jin Lee, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles, talked to her mother about her job, her mom once asked: "How are you going to work with crazy people all day?" Lee's mother believed the feelings associated with depression were just part of her immigrant experience. But listening to the Korean American radio shows made it easier for her mother to acknowledge her symptoms and how to seek help, said Lee, the executive director at the Southern California-based Yellow Chair Collective, which works on providing mental health care for Asian Americans. And with the rise of TikTok, younger generations of Korean Americans have become much more open to therapyand they are dragging their parents to seek help, Yeom said. In fact, Lee said therapists sometimes need to talk their young clients out of their TikTok-based self-diagnosis. "Teens will come and they will say, 'I have a [post-traumatic stress disorder],' and we have to reverse that." Meanwhile, the recent rise in anti-Asian hate as well as the months of isolation and remote schooling have pushed many teens to the breaking point, where they feel as though they have no choice but to seek help. Katherine Yungmee Kim, the director of the Koreatown Storytelling Program for the Koreatown Youth and Community Center, has worked with youth since 2020 to create intergenerational and multilingual oral history and digital media projects on topics ranging from the garment industry to the 30th anniversary of the L.A. riots. Kim did not expect to be a counselor, but she says her students were showing a lot of evidence that they were suffering from mental health issues. She ultimately asked to be trained by the center's mental health program staff. "It's kind of like a confluence of puberty, peer pressure, social media, technology and the pandemic. All those things are happening at the same time," Kim said. "Here, I thought I was starting a community journalism program, but I needed a mental health protocol." Being shut inside one's home for all times of the day, for kids and parents alike, meant they could not ignore each other any longer. That also changed the dynamics of family relationships, Lee said. "Avoiding is part of our culture, and all of a sudden, we're hit with the pandemic, and we can't avoid each other anymore," Lee said. On the flip side, the pandemic did open up the community's ability to get mental health care in different ways. Initially, Zoom was a foreign conceptespecially for older immigrants since the application was not in Korean. But as people became more accustomed to the concept of teletherapy, they felt it was more convenient and less stigmatizing than in-person visits, Yeom said. One survey from KFAM found that some 90% of the clients preferred Zoom over in-person sessions. "For the senior who lives in a senior apartment [and] who doesn't have a car, as long as she has a cellphone, [the medical staff] can now provide psychiatric medications, and we can provide mental health services. We weren't able to do that before COVID," said Ellen Ahn, the executive director of the Korean Community Services in Orange County. "That's a powerful change." Despite the new tools, a lack of awareness about language and cultural competency among those who built the country's mental health care infrastructure means those who do want help still can have a hard time finding it. In Korea, hwa-byungwhich means "suppressed anger" or stress expressed as physical pain such as stomach- or headaches or difficulty breathingis a well-known concept. Yet, the widely used Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Assn., stopped recognizing the disease on its own when it updated its book in 2013, said Kelly Baek, an assistant professor of social work and social ecology at Loma Linda University. "I thought it was such a disservice, because [researchers] found new information that hwa-byung manifests faster and earlier," Baek said. "We see young adults start to develop [it]." Even in Southern California, home to the biggest Korean American population in the U.S., finding those who can speak the language and understand the culture remains challenging for seniors who don't necessarily want to see younger, second-generation Korean American therapists who may not speak the language, said Dr. Man Chul Cho, president of the Southern California Korean American Psychiatrist Assn. There are therapists who speak Korean, but connecting clients to them is challenging when there's a lack of a platform to do so, said Dr. Young Ok Kim, co-founder and president of the Korean American Wellness Assn., which built a network of Korean American mental health clinicians in Chicago and is working on expanding it to regions such as Southern California. With KFAM's waiting list being months long, Yeom often finds herself redirecting people to other organizations. But when seniors call them, they will often hang up if the first word they hear is not in Korean, Yeom said. That leads to a heavy reliance on community institutions such as churches, with pastors and their partners serving as informal counselors of sorts, Ahn said. Yet, the support and training for those institutions and their leaders had been minimal until the last few years. "No one recognizes that work," Ahn said. "But to that community member, that pastor, that pastor's wife, is the most important person." The cultural dynamic of therapy also remains in play. Therapy is often seen as a top-down process especially by older Korean Americans, said Nayon Kang, the children and families services division director at the Koreatown Youth and Community Center, or KYCC. "I still find a lot of people refer to counselors as teachers," Kang said. "Even if they seek treatment, there's a cultural idea of what that is, that there is an authority who will give you directive, give you homework and tell you what to do." Still, Kang and Kim at KYCC say they believe the community has moved forward. A couple of years ago, Kim spoke with some parents in Koreatown. Many of those parents were "totally at a loss" of what to do as they saw their daughters act out. Then, a few months later, Kim saw one of those daughters in an elevator at KYCC, leaving from one of the center's mental health programs. "I knew they got the help they needed," she said. Explore further Fewer older Korean Americans use mental health services 2022 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Credit: Olin Business School President Joe Biden signed an executive order Sept. 12 to launch a National Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Initiative, noting the United States relies too heavily on foreign materials and foreign bioproduction. Offshoring of critical industries threatens the nation's ability to access materials such as important chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Consider the prescriptions you or your loved ones need for high blood pressure, infections or other ailments. Chances are, no manufacturing source exists in the United States for critical generic drugs or their active ingredients. In fact, in 2021 the White House sounded the alarm about vulnerabilities in the pharmaceutical supply chain. "The disappearance of domestic production of essential antibiotics impairs our ability to counter threats ranging from pandemics to bio-terrorism," a White House report proclaimed. Insufficient U.S. manufacturing capacity due to offshoring was largely to blame. But new research from Washington University in St. Louis' Center for Analytics and Business Insights (CABI) at Olin Business School found that the U.S. actually has the capacity to make the nation's most essential and critical drugsyet it's mostly sitting idle. Report fills key data gap The CABI report "US Generic Pharmaceutical Manufacturer Available Capacity Research Survey" fills a crucial gap in available industry data. "We addressed of a significant blind spot, which was the understanding of available capacity in the United States to build supply chain resiliency," said Anthony Sardella, author of the CABI report, senior research adviser for CABI and an adjunct lecturer at Olin. "Our results were quite surprising. Fifty percent of available capacity is not utilized," he said. "The number was stunning." The Biden administration said Sept. 14 that it will invest more $2 billion into biotech and biomanufacturing efforts. Credit: Olin Business School 30 billion more doses possible Last year, the generic pharmaceutical industry made headlines when it announced the closure of several U.S. manufacturing plants. Why? Factors include lower offshore operating costs and labor rates, intense pricing pressure and steadily growing dependence on offshore sources for raw materials. "How do we account for this incongruency?" Sardella asked. He and his team surveyed 37 U.S. generic pharmaceutical manufacturing sites. They found the sites are producing at just half of their production capacity annually, with an aggregate excess capacity of nearly 50%. In fact, only two of the 37 manufacturing sites are producing at full capacity. If the sites got up and running, nearly 30 billion additional doses of essential and critical medicines could be produced in the U.S. without the expense and effort of building new manufacturing plants, shortening the time to make generic medicines available from domestic sources, the report found. In a nutshell, the report recommended the following: Repurpose idle sites to enable manufacturing to address shortages, increase supply-chain resiliency and build supplies within 2436 months. Continue current federal funding efforts for advanced manufacturing technologies to reduce production costs, create new workforce opportunities and increase the economic sustainability of U.S. drug manufacturing. Research aims to foster national policy Sardella, who focused his research on issues at the intersection of business, government and society, will present the paper's results Tuesday, Oct. 4, at the National Press Club in Washington to provide support for policy considerations and initiatives to strengthen U.S. drug manufacturing sustainability. CABI's next step is its new paper, in progress, about how to model funding initiatives that lower the risk of adopting advanced manufacturing technologies, such as continuous-flow chemistry, to boost production. Explore further Biden to announce new support for US biotech production Left without being seen (LWBS) rates in peer benchmarking service. Peer benchmarking service data on monthly LWBS rates, inclusive of 365 hospital-based emergency departments (EDs) in 2017 and increasing to 1769 hospital-based EDs nationwide by the end of 2021, are presented. Credit: JAMA Network Open (2022). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.33708 In a pair of new studies, Yale researchers document a widespread and increasing level of overcrowding in America's emergency departments (EDs), a crisis that puts patient safety and access to care at risk. For the studies, the researchers examined, respectively, the progression in recent years of two measures of ED function and hospital capacity: boarding timeor how long patients remain in the ED after physicians have determined they should be admitted to the hospitaland how often patients leave the ED before receiving care. Their findings, they say, help characterize the bigger issues that underlie ED crowding. And they show that the issue worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their methods also yield more timely assessments of these key indicators, which historically have been hard to come by. "This is not an ED management issue," said Arjun Venkatesh, an associate professor of emergency medicine at Yale School of Medicine and an author of the studies. "These are indicators of overwhelmed resources and symptoms of deeper problems in the health care system." The studies were both published Sept. 30 in JAMA Network Open. It was during the 1980s that ED crowding emerged as an issue of national concern. The problem has only gotten worse in the decades since, with negative effects for patients and hospital staff alike. For patients, studies have found that ED crowding is correlated with discomfort, reduced privacy, treatment delays, and higher risk of prolonged disease and death. ED crowding also leads to increased violence toward staff, greater clinician and nurse turnover, and high rates of burnout. A recent study found nearly 63% of surveyed U.S. physicians experienced burnout in 2021. In one of the new studies, researchers found that boarding timesor the amount of time patients were kept in the emergency department after clinicians had determined they should be admittedwere related to hospital occupancy rates, or the percentage of staffed inpatient beds that are occupied. The Joint Commission, an independent national health care accrediting body, has recommended that boarding time not exceed four hours. For the study, Yale researchers evaluated these measures in U.S. hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, from January 2020 to December 2021. They found that when occupancy exceeded 85%, boarding times exceeded this four-hour standard. In fact, under those circumstances, the median ED boarding time was 6.58 hours. Boarding times also worsened throughout this time period, outpacing occupancy rates. This relationship makes sense, says Alexander Janke, lead author of the studies, because when occupancy is high, there are few available beds to move patients from the ED. And with diminishing capacity, wait times are compounded. "Hospitals must have some flexible capacity so there are places for patients with emergencies requiring hospitalization to go," said Janke, who conducted the research while a fellow at Yale School of Medicine and is now at the University of Michigan. "And that capacity doesn't exist in a lot of places." Which means patients stay in the ED until space opens at their destination and ED beds remain occupied, limiting the number available to new patients." This latter impact can affect ED wait times. And when those are long, patients are more likely to leave before being evaluated. In the second study, researchers assessed the rates at which patients in U.S. hospitals decided to leave EDs before even being seen by a clinician. From January 2017 to December 2021, the median rate of patients leaving without being seen nearly doubled from 1.1% to 2.1%. At the worst performing hospitals, those rates were as high as 10% by the end of 2021, a number Janke called "astonishing." "It's a measure of access to care," he said. "If you have to wait hours and hours to be evaluated in the ED, then that's not the access to care that we have required by law in [the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, or EMTALA]." (Enacted in 1986, EMTALA requires universal provision of emergency care by hospitals that accept Medicare payments.) These findings, the researchers say, offer a snapshot of the current state of EDs in the United States, and provide critical data that typically are difficult to obtain in a timely manner. Though hospitals are required to report certain measures on a yearly basis, those data often aren't released publicly for another two or three years, rendering them irrelevant, said Janke. "The health care system is a living, breathing organism, and it's like we measured its vital signs one time three years ago and that's how we make public policy," he said. "You and I should know whether the acute care system where we live has the capacity to address, say, a heart attack or a stroke in a family member. This is a problem that affects population health." The researchers want people outside of the ED community to recognize this population-level effect and the impacts of ED crowding. "We hope our findings begin to draw attention and accountability for the human toll of the ED boarding crisis," said Ted Melnick, associate professor of emergency medicine at Yale School of Medicine and an author of the studies. For both studies, the researchers collected data from a large electronic health record vendor, an approach that's particularly helpful in the absence of other national or local data. "Future partnerships with electronic health record vendors can continue to shed light on crises like this," Melnick said. More information: Alexander T. Janke et al, Hospital Occupancy and Emergency Department Boarding During the COVID-19 Pandemic, JAMA Network Open (2022). Alexander T. Janke et al, Hospital Occupancy and Emergency Department Boarding During the COVID-19 Pandemic,(2022). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.33964 Alexander T. Janke et al, Monthly Rates of Patients Who Left Before Accessing Care in US Emergency Departments, 2017-2021, JAMA Network Open (2022). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.33708 Journal information: JAMA Network Open Credit: CC0 Public Domain Research led by Carnegie Mellon University has developed a model that can accurately predict how stay-at-home orders like those put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic affect the mental health of people with chronic neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Researchers from CMU, the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Washington gathered data from the smartphones and fitness trackers of people with MS both before and during the early wave of the pandemic. Specifically, they used the passively collected sensor data to build machine learning models to predict depression, fatigue, poor sleep quality and worsening MS symptoms during the unprecedented stay-at-home period. Before the pandemic began, the original research question was whether digital data from the smartphones and fitness trackers of people with MS could predict clinical outcomes. By March 2020, as study participants were required to stay at home, their daily behavior patterns were significantly altered. The research team realized the data being collected could inform the effect of the stay-at-home orders on people with MS. "It presented us with an exciting opportunity," said Mayank Goel, head of the Smart Sensing for Humans (SMASH) Lab at CMU. "If we look at the data points before and during the stay-at-home period, can we identify factors that signal changes in the health of people with MS?" The team gathered data passively over three to six months, collecting information such as the number of calls on the participants' smartphones and the duration of those calls; the number of missed calls; and the participants' location and screen activity data. The team also collected heart rate, sleep information and step count data from their fitness trackers. The research, "Predicting Multiple Sclerosis Outcomes During the COVID-19 Stay-at-Home Period: Observational Study Using Passively Sensed Behaviors and Digital Phenotyping," was recently published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research Mental Health. Goel, an associate professor in the School of Computer Science's Software and Societal Systems Department (S3D) and Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII), collaborated with Prerna Chikersal, a Ph.D. student in the HCII; Dr. Zongqi Xia, an associate professor of Neurology and director of the Translational and Computational Neuroimmunology Research Program at the University of Pittsburgh; and Anind Dey, a professor and dean of the University of Washington's Information School. The work was based on previous studies from Goel's and Dey's research groups. In 2020, a CMU team published research that presented a machine learning model that could identify depression in college students at the end of the semester using smartphone and fitness tracker data. Participants in the earlier study, specifically 138 first-year CMU students, were relatively similar to each other when compared to the larger population beyond the university. The researchers set out to test whether their modeling approach could accurately predict clinically relevant health outcomes in a real-world patient population with greater demographic and clinical diversity, leading them to collaborate with Xia's MS research program. People with MS can experience several chronic comorbidities, which gave the team a chance to test if their model could predict adverse health outcomes such as severe fatigue, poor sleep quality and worsening of MS symptoms in addition to depression. Building on this study, the team hopes to advance precision medicine for people with MS by improving early detection of disease progression and implementing targeted interventions based on digital phenotyping. The work could also help inform policymakers tasked with issuing future stay-at-home orders or other similar responses during pandemics or natural disasters. When the original COVID-19 stay-at-home orders were issued, there were early concerns about its economic impacts but only a belated appreciation for the toll on peoples' mental and physical healthparticularly among vulnerable populations such as those with chronic neurological conditions. "We were able to capture the change in people's behaviors and accurately predict clinical outcomes when they are forced to stay at home for prolonged periods," Goel said. "Now that we have a working model, we could evaluate who is at risk for worsening mental health or physical health, inform clinical triage decisions, or shape future public health policies." Explore further Apps kept us healthy during the pandemic, but it came at a cost More information: Predicting Multiple Sclerosis Outcomes During the COVID-19 Stay-at-home Period: Observational Study Using Passively Sensed Behaviors and Digital Phenotyping, Journal of Medical Internet Research (2022). Journal information: Journal of Medical Internet Research Predicting Multiple Sclerosis Outcomes During the COVID-19 Stay-at-home Period: Observational Study Using Passively Sensed Behaviors and Digital Phenotyping,(2022). mental.jmir.org/2022/8/e38495/ a-c: Deterministic sensitivity analysis for Malawi; tornado diagram of community-delivered PDMC and facility-delivered PDMC versus standard of care (1a, 1b), and a comparison of both PDMC strategies (1c). Credit: eClinicalMedicine (2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101669 Young children in sub-Saharan Africa often become severely anemic as consequence of a malaria infection. Treating them requires blood transfusions and they must stay hospitalized for several days. They are at a relatively high risk of dying during treatment, but the risk is even higher during the months after their discharge from hospitaltypically caused by another malaria infection. An international team of researchers from Africa, Europe and the U.S. recently showed that giving the children prophylactic anti-malarials (PDMC) during these months lead to a 70% reduction of hospital readmission and deaths among these children. In the 20 African countries with the highest malaria burden, 36.000 readmissions could be prevented every year if all severely anemic children took anti-malarials post-discharge. Led by the University of Bergen, this team wanted to find out if this preventive treatment is cost-effective for the health sectors of, Malawi, Kenya, and Uganda, where malaria is endemic. Using data from medical trials that they had recently conducted in these countries, the researchers developed health economic models for each country. They found that giving PDMC is very likely a cost-effective intervention in each setting, and a main reason was that treatment and readmission costs are much higher than the cost of simple and affordable treatment with antimalarials. "The reduction of readmissions is so significant, it's really a no-brainer: with PDMC you can save money while improving the health of these children," says professor at the faculty of medicine, UiB, Bjarne Robberstad. He has been supervising the study. His colleague Melf Kuhl points out that the real strength of the study, however, lies in the consideration of adherence rates in the economic models. Parents at times forget to give the pills to their recovering children, which reduces the effect notably. While often ignored in research, this loss in efficacy is a real-life problem and may, in fact, lead to an initially optimal treatment no longer being the cost-effective option. Therefore, the team tested how many pills parents were likely to forget if they were provided the antimalarials in two different ways and included these findings in each country's model. Even then PDMC remains a "no-brainer": The cost-effective option for both the health sector and the households is when parents receive all pills with instructions as the child is discharged from the hospital. Asking parents to return regularly to hospital for a pill top up incurs higher cost to households and yields a lower real-life effect of the prophylaxis. Still, in all countries, both PDMC delivery options remained superior to the standard of care. Based on these studies, the World Health Organization recently began recommending PDMC as treatment for severely anemic children in malaria-endemic areas. The cost-effectiveness-study informed this recommendation. More importantly, it continues informing national decision-makers in sub-Saharan Africa, who are now deliberating how to best implement PDMC. Parents' adherence to a preventive therapy remains a widely unresearched question, even though it offers essential information for good policy advice. This study offers a methodological path for future studies to include real-life adherence rates in economic evaluations. The research was published in eClinicalMedicine. Explore further Rollout of world's first malaria jab gathers pace More information: Melf-Jakob Kuhl et al, Economic evaluation of postdischarge malaria chemoprevention in preschool children treated for severe anaemia in Malawi, Kenya, and Uganda: A cost-effectiveness analysis, eClinicalMedicine (2022). Journal information: EClinicalMedicine Melf-Jakob Kuhl et al, Economic evaluation of postdischarge malaria chemoprevention in preschool children treated for severe anaemia in Malawi, Kenya, and Uganda: A cost-effectiveness analysis,(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101669 This photo provide by the Max-Planck-Gesellschaft shows Swedish scientist Svante Paabo in Leipzig, Germany, April 27, 2010. On Monday, Oct. 3, 2022 the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was awarded to Swedish scientist Svante Paabo for his discoveries on human evolution. Credit: Frank Vinken for Max-Planck-Gesellschaft via AP Swedish scientist Svante Paabo won the Nobel Prize in medicine Monday for his discoveries on human evolution that provided key insights into our immune system and what makes us unique compared with our extinct cousins, the award's panel said. Paabo spearheaded the development of new techniques that allowed researchers to compare the genome of modern humans and that of other homininsthe Neanderthals and Denisovans. While Neanderthal bones were first discovered in the mid-19th century, only by unlocking their DNAoften referred to as the code of lifehave scientists been able to fully understand the links between species. This included the time when modern humans and Neanderthals diverged as a species, determined to be around 800,000 years ago, said Anna Wedell, chair of the Nobel Committee. "Paabo and his team also surprisingly found that gene flow had occurred from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens, demonstrating that they had children together during periods of co-existence," she said. This transfer of genes between hominin species affects how the immune system of modern humans reacts to infections, such as the coronavirus. People outside Africa have 1-2% of Neanderthal genes. Paabo and his team also managed to extract DNA from a tiny finger bone found in a cave in Siberia, leading to the recognition of a new species of ancient humans they called Denisovans. Swedish scientist Svante Paabo smiles at the award ceremony at the Hamburg Kerber Foundation's European Science Prize, in Hamburg, Germany, Sept. 7, 2018. On Monday, Oct. 3, 2022 the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was awarded to Swedish scientist Svante Paabo for his discoveries on human evolution. Credit: Christian Charisius/dpa via AP Wedell described this as "a sensational discovery" that subsequently showed Neanderthals and Denisovan to be sister groups which split from each other around 600,000 years ago. Denisovan genes have been found in up to 6% of modern humans in Asia and Southeast Asia, indicating that interbreeding occurred there too. "By mixing with them after migrating out of Africa, homo sapiens picked up sequences that improved their chances to survive in their new environments," said Wedell. For example, Tibetans share a gene with Denisovans that helps them adapt to the high altitude. "Svante Paabo has discovered the genetic make up of our closest relatives, the Neanderthals and the Denison hominins," Nils-Goran Larsson, a Nobel Assembly member, told the Associated Press after the announcement. "And the small differences between these extinct human forms and us as humans today will provide important insight into our body functions and how our brain has developed." Paabo said he was surprised to learn of his win on Monday. "So I was just gulping down the last cup of tea to go and pick up my daughter at her nanny where she has had an overnight stay, and then I got this call from Sweden and I of course thought it had something to do with our little summer house in Sweden. I thought, 'Oh the lawn mower's broken down or something,'" he said in an interview posted on the official home page of the Nobel Prizes. Chair of the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine Anna Wedell, left, presents the discovery made by Swedish scientist Svante Paabo, winner of the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, during a press conference at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. Credit: Henrik Montgomery/TT News Agency via AP He mused about what would have happened if Neanderthals had survived another 40,000 years. "Would we see even worse racism against Neanderthals, because they were really in some sense different from us? Or would we actually see our place in the living world quite in a different way when we would have other forms of humans there that are very like us but still different," he said. Paabo, 67, performed his prizewinning studies in Germany at the University of Munich and at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. He is the son of Sune Bergstrom, who won the Nobel prize in medicine in 1982. According to the Nobel Foundation, it's the eighth time that the son or daughter of a Nobel laureate also won a Nobel Prize. Scientists in the field lauded the Nobel Committee's choice this year. David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, said he was thrilled the group honored the field of ancient DNA, which he worried might "fall between the cracks." By recognizing that DNA can be preserved for tens of thousands of yearsand developing ways to extract itPaabo and his team created a completely new way to answer questions about our past, Reich said. That work was the basis for an "explosive growth" of ancient DNA studies in recent decades. "It's totally reconfigured our understanding of human variation and human history," Reich said. Swedish scientist Svante Paabo smiles in Leipzig, Germany, on Nov. 23, 2012. On Monday, Oct. 3, 2022 the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was awarded to Swedish scientist Svante Paabo for his discoveries on human evolution. Credit: Hendrik Schmidt/dpa via AP Dr. Eric Green, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, called it "a great day for genomics," a relatively young field first named in 1987. The Human Genome project, which ran from 1990-2003, "got us the first sequence of the human genome, and we've improved that sequence ever since," Green said. Since then, scientists developed new cheaper, extremely sensitive methods for sequencing DNA. When you sequence DNA from a fossil millions of years old, you only have "vanishingly small amounts" of DNA, Green said. Among Paabo's innovations was figuring out the laboratory methods for extracting and preserving these tiny amounts of DNA. He was then able to lay pieces of the Neanderthal genome sequence against the human sequencing coming out of the Human Genome Project. Paabo's team published the first draft of a Neanderthal genome in 2009. The team sequenced more than 60% of the full genome from a small sample of bone, after contending with decay and contamination from bacteria. "We should always be proud of the fact that we sequenced our genome. But the idea that we can go back in time and sequence the genome that doesn't live anymore and something that's a direct relative of humans is truly remarkable," Green said. Katerina Harvati-Papatheodorou, professor of paleoanthropology at the University of Tubingen in Germany, said the award also underscores the importance of understanding humanity's evolutionary heritage to gain insights about human health today. Thomas Perlmann, member of the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine, announces the winner of the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to Swedish scientist Svante Paabo, pictured on the screen, during a press conference at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. Credit: Henrik Montgomery/TT News Agency via AP "The most recent example is the finding that genes inherited from our Neanderthal relatives ... can have implications for one's susceptibility to COVID infections," she said in an email to the AP. The medicine prize kicked off a week of Nobel Prize announcements. It continues Tuesday with the physics prize, with chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The 2022 Nobel Peace Prize will be announced on Friday and the economics award on Oct. 10. Last year's medicine recipients were David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for their discoveries into how the human body perceives temperature and touch. The prizes carry a cash award of 10 million Swedish kronor (nearly $900,000) and will be handed out on Dec. 10. The money comes from a bequest left by the prize's creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1895. Nobel Committee press release: The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2022 The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet has today decided to award the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to Svante Paabo for his discoveries concerning the genomes of extinct hominins and human evolution Humanity has always been intrigued by its origins. Where do we come from, and how are we related to those who came before us? What makes us, Homo sapiens, different from other hominins? Through his pioneering research, Svante Paabo accomplished something seemingly impossible: sequencing the genome of the Neanderthal, an extinct relative of present-day humans. He also made the sensational discovery of a previously unknown hominin, Denisova. Importantly, Paabo also found that gene transfer had occurred from these now extinct hominins to Homo sapiens following the migration out of Africa around 70,000 years ago. This ancient flow of genes to present-day humans has physiological relevance today, for example affecting how our immune system reacts to infections. Paabo's seminal research gave rise to an entirely new scientific discipline; paleogenomics. By revealing genetic differences that distinguish all living humans from extinct hominins, his discoveries provide the basis for exploring what makes us uniquely human. Where do we come from? The question of our origin and what makes us unique has engaged humanity since ancient times. Paleontology and archeology are important for studies of human evolution. Research provided evidence that the anatomically modern human, Homo sapiens, first appeared in Africa approximately 300,000 years ago, while our closest known relatives, Neanderthals, developed outside Africa and populated Europe and Western Asia from around 400,000 years until 30,000 years ago, at which point they went extinct. About 70,000 years ago, groups of Homo sapiens migrated from Africa to the Middle East and, from there they spread to the rest of the world. Homo sapiens and Neanderthals thus coexisted in large parts of Eurasia for tens of thousands of years. But what do we know about our relationship with the extinct Neanderthals? Clues might be derived from genomic information. By the end of the 1990's, almost the entire human genome had been sequenced. This was a considerable accomplishment, which allowed subsequent studies of the genetic relationship between different human populations. However, studies of the relationship between present-day humans and the extinct Neanderthals would require the sequencing of genomic DNA recovered from archaic specimens. A seemingly impossible task Early in his career, Svante Paabo became fascinated by the possibility of utilizing modern genetic methods to study the DNA of Neanderthals. However, he soon realized the extreme technical challenges, because with time DNA becomes chemically modified and degrades into short fragments. After thousands of years, only trace amounts of DNA are left, and what remains is massively contaminated with DNA from bacteria and contemporary humans. As a postdoctoral student with Allan Wilson, a pioneer in the field of evolutionary biology, Paabo started to develop methods to study DNA from Neanderthals, an endeavor that lasted several decades. In 1990, Paabo was recruited to University of Munich, where, as a newly appointed Professor, he continued his work on archaic DNA. He decided to analyze DNA from Neanderthal mitochondriaorganelles in cells that contain their own DNA. The mitochondrial genome is small and contains only a fraction of the genetic information in the cell, but it is present in thousands of copies, increasing the chance of success. With his refined methods, Paabo managed to sequence a region of mitochondrial DNA from a 40,000-year-old piece of bone. Thus, for the first time, we had access to a sequence from an extinct relative. Comparisons with contemporary humans and chimpanzees demonstrated that Neanderthals were genetically distinct. Sequencing the Neanderthal genome As analyses of the small mitochondrial genome gave only limited information, Paabo now took on the enormous challenge of sequencing the Neanderthal nuclear genome. At this time, he was offered the chance to establish a Max Planck Institute in Leipzig, Germany. At the new Institute, Paabo and his team steadily improved the methods to isolate and analyze DNA from archaic bone remains. The research team exploited new technical developments, which made sequencing of DNA highly efficient. Paabo also engaged several critical collaborators with expertise on population genetics and advanced sequence analyses. His efforts were successful. Paabo accomplished the seemingly impossible and could publish the first Neanderthal genome sequence in 2010. Comparative analyses demonstrated that the most recent common ancestor of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens lived around 800,000 years ago. Paabo and his co-workers could now investigate the relationship between Neanderthals and modern-day humans from different parts of the world. Comparative analyses showed that DNA sequences from Neanderthals were more similar to sequences from contemporary humans originating from Europe or Asia than to contemporary humans originating from Africa. This means that Neanderthals and Homo sapiens interbred during their millennia of coexistence. In modern day humans with European or Asian descent, approximately 1-4% of the genome originates from the Neanderthals. A sensational discovery: Denisova In 2008, a 40,000-year-old fragment from a finger bone was discovered in the Denisova cave in the southern part of Siberia. The bone contained exceptionally well-preserved DNA, which Paabo's team sequenced. The results caused a sensation: the DNA sequence was unique when compared to all known sequences from Neanderthals and present-day humans. Paabo had discovered a previously unknown hominin, which was given the name Denisova. Comparisons with sequences from contemporary humans from different parts of the world showed that gene flow had also occurred between Denisova and Homo sapiens. This relationship was first seen in populations in Melanesia and other parts of South East Asia, where individuals carry up to 6% Denisova DNA. Paabo's discoveries have generated new understanding of our evolutionary history. At the time when Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa, at least two extinct hominin populations inhabited Eurasia. Neanderthals lived in western Eurasia, whereas Denisovans populated the eastern parts of the continent. During the expansion of Homo sapiens outside Africa and their migration east, they not only encountered and interbred with Neanderthals, but also with Denisovans . Paleogenomics and its relevance Through his groundbreaking research, Svante Paabo established an entirely new scientific discipline, paleogenomics. Following the initial discoveries, his group has completed analyses of several additional genome sequences from extinct hominins. Paabo's discoveries have established a unique resource, which is utilized extensively by the scientific community to better understand human evolution and migration. New powerful methods for sequence analysis indicate that archaic hominins may also have mixed with Homo sapiens in Africa. However, no genomes from extinct hominins in Africa have yet been sequenced due to accelerated degradation of archaic DNA in tropical climates. Thanks to Svante Paabo's discoveries, we now understand that archaic gene sequences from our extinct relatives influence the physiology of present-day humans. One such example is the Denisovan version of the gene EPAS1, which confers an advantage for survival at high altitude and is common among present-day Tibetans. Other examples are Neanderthal genes that affect our immune response to different types of infections. What makes us uniquely human? Homo sapiens is characterized by its unique capacity to create complex cultures, advanced innovations and figurative art, as well as by the ability to cross open water and spread to all parts of our planet. Neanderthals also lived in groups and had big brains. They also utilized tools, but these developed very little during hundreds of thousands of years. The genetic differences between Homo sapiens and our closest extinct relatives were unknown until they were identified through Paabo's seminal work. Intense ongoing research focuses on analyzing the functional implications of these differences with the ultimate goal of explaining what makes us uniquely human. 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain By a vote of 40031, the "Fairness for 9/11 Families Act" was approved by the House on Friday, leaving many survivors and responders wondering why a similar bill is not advancing to shore up their underfunded health program. As House leaders advanced a nearly $3 billion measure to level up compensation payments to more than 5,000 9/11 victims, spouses, and dependents, they failed to advance the healthcare bill, leaving some advocates grateful that some victims may get additional compensation but furious that the larger group needing health care remains in limbo. The World Trade Center Health Program, which provides care and monitoring for some 118,000 people exposed to the toxins of Ground Zero, is facing a $3 billion deficit and will run out of funds by 2026. "I was immediately angryas soon as I found out about this surprise bill," said Miriama James, a community advocate whose family lived just east of the Word Trade Center and has all suffered illness from the attacks. "How do you come out of nowhere and be prioritized above all the survivors and responders who need health care, who are also dying, and who have also lost family members?" The anger is generally directed at Congress leaders, but specifically at House Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y, whose committee has jurisdiction over terrorism compensation, and Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., who chairs the Energy and Commerce Committee, which does health legislation. Pallone put money for the health program in President Joe Biden's Build Back Better legislation, but that bill never made it to the Senate, and Pallone has not heeded calls to advance a separate stand-alone bill for 9/11 health care, as is now happening with the compensation measure. "Frank Pallone has no excuse for not moving the bill to get to $3 billion added to the health program," 9/11 advocate John Feal told the Daily News. "Shame on Frank Pallone." However, Pallone said in a statement that the focus should be on the upper chamber. "The Senate, as usual, has failed to act," said the New Jersey congressman. "I would encourage everyone to push the Senate if the program is to be reauthorized in this session of Congress. If the Senate supports it, we can include the funding in the end of the year spending bill." Similarly, Feal laid into Nadler for finding a way to get the compensation bill on the House floor for a vote while the health care money languishes, even though Nadler also supports the health program spending. "Good for those people getting money, but Jerry Nadler just screwed over a whole lot more people that need the World Trade Center Health Program for survival," Feal said, referring to the much larger population of ill 9/11 responders. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said, "We're fully committed to providing those (funds), maybe even before the end of this year. We'll see. But we certainly will meet the health needs of our first responders on 9/11." Still, one source familiar with the move said it came down to timing. "The health fund does not have a funding cliff in the near futurenot until 2026," the source said. "This other pot of money does have people that could benefit from it immediately." The 2026 date, however, does not account for the steps that will have to come sooner in the health program. The program director recently briefed Congress about the timeline, warning that new entrantspeople who get new 9/11-related cancers, for instancewould be barred starting in 2024. It also overlooks other immediate problems that the health legislation would fix now. The issue for the compensation program is complex, going back to the first 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund from 2002. In that fund, only victims, spouses and dependents got paid, and they were barred from lawsuits related to the attacks. The idea was to discourage new lawsuits against governments, and to prevent double-dipping. But in 2015, the Republican-led Judiciary Committee passed the U.S. Victims of State-Sponsored Terrorism Act to advance 9/11 legislation, allowing victims of 9/11 and other terror incidents to collect lawsuit judgments from cases against terror-sponsoring states. That money came from seizures that the Justice Department made of terror-linked funding, including from businesses that broke laws to trade with terror sponsors. Since participants in the original Victim Compensation Fund were barred from such suits, the people who were eligible to collect were victims' siblings and parents. That led to cases where brothers, sisters and parents could collect more than victims' own immediate families. In 2019, Congress passed legislation to help those families catch up, but there is not enough money to even out the scales. Rather than depending on money seized from companies doing illicit business with terror sponsors, in this bill, Congress taps taxpayer funds to pay the judgments. It takes $2.98 billion for small businesses that have not yet been spent from the COVID-19 relief program. The bill is likely to find support in the Senate, where it is championed by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. A spokesman for Schumer, who was informed of the anger at both House leadership and him, insisted that Schumer would get both bills passed. "Time and again, Chuck Schumer has delivered all the funds necessary to both establish and run the 9/11 health benefits programdespite consistent opposition from Republicansand he will work with first responder unions, the building trades and other worker advocates to pass a funding fix to address this future shortfall," said spokesman Angelo Roefaro. Schumer has said he will include health funding in the full-year government funding bill, which must pass by Dec. 16. That legislation, however, has not yet been written. Explore further Biden presses computer chips case in advance of Senate vote 2022 New York Daily News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Credit: CC0 Public Domain A new study by a Rice University researcher shows transgender adults of any age are more susceptible to disability than those who are cisgender. The paper by Madeline Smith-Johnson, a doctoral student and graduate research assistant in the Department of Sociology, is published in the October issue of the journal Health Affairs. "I'm really interested in LGBTQ elders, and as I think about aging and the different types of things that expose people to faster biological aging at a younger chronological age, the first outcome that I want to know about is, 'How are you doing?'" Smith-Johnson said. The paper, "Transgender adults have higher rates of disability than cisgender counterparts," showed significant disparities between the groups at many levels, including controls for age, transgender identity and disability status. Difficulty walking or climbing stairs, dressing or bathing, running errands alone, concentrating, remembering or making decisions were among the qualifying disabilities. The study results spotlight the compound vulnerabilities faced by gender minorities in the United States. "Compared to cisgender respondents, transgender adults were more likely to be a sexual minority, a racial minority and have a lower income," said Smith-Johnson. "The experience of discrimination, victimization and violence brings chronic stress to transgender populations, which can accumulate in negative health outcomes." Smith-Johnson discovered transgender adults have a 27% chance of having at least one disability by age 20, which increases to a 39% chance by age 55nearly twice the rate of their cisgender counterparts at both ages. Overall, transgender adults reported higher rates of disability (30%) compared with both cisgender women (24%) and cisgender men (18%). The study focused on functional limitation rather than biomarkers such as cardiovascular disease, cancer or diabetes. "When I started this study, I focused on the older segment of the population aged 65 and above. That's where I found the first evidence of disparity, that there was an outsized burden of disability among the oldest part of the population," Smith-Johnson said. "As people examined my research, they found it interesting, but we wanted to dive further into the data to understand if this occurs across all age groups." Smith-Johnson used data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, one of the largest national samples including cisgender and transgender groups, to intersect the control determinants and identify various levels of affectation. The findings show the importance of considering disability from a life-course perspective, the effect of intersectional identities on disability risk and the urgency of targeted health interventions for transgender people. "There are several levels of implications," Smith-Johnson said. "One of them is thinking about health care access. The interpersonal stigma that transgender patients experience and the elevated rates of care avoidance are alarming. The survey respondents are less likely to go to the doctor in the first place. We know that if they have stigmatizing interactions, they are less likely to continue seeking out care." "There are huge implications for medical training, health care institutions and insurance companies. Insurers like to think about what it means to be inclusive of a broader gender population, so this study implies there should be transgender-inclusive training in medical school. This research also could suggest we should commission more studies to examine effective ways of outreach into these populations to mitigate care avoidance." Smith-Johnson emphasized that the U.S. needs to collect more detailed data about transgender people in order to design and improve interventions. "At the federal level, we need someonepreferably the censusto investigate in the most valid and least threatening way to ask about gender identity and sexual orientation in a comprehensive way so that we can begin to collect national-level estimates of the United States," Smith-Johnson said. "That would also begin to drill down into state-level differences of health outcomes because there are dramatically different state-level policies that impact trends of health care." "It would help to better extrapolate disparity in terms of experiences like housing discrimination, employment discrimination and the fundamental determinants of health. If you are housing-insecure and you don't have a regular income, or if you are precariously employed, we know that public resources are fundamental to live well in a very general sense." The study's publication comes just before November's Transgender Awareness Week , which includes a Transgender Day of Remembrance Nov. 20. Explore further Few health differences for trans, cisgender veterans More information: Madeline Smith-Johnson, Transgender Adults Have Higher Rates Of Disability Than Their Cisgender Counterparts, Health Affairs (2022). Madeline Smith-Johnson, Transgender Adults Have Higher Rates Of Disability Than Their Cisgender Counterparts,(2022). DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.00500 Micrograph showing inflammation of the large bowel in a case of inflammatory bowel disease. Colonic biopsy. Credit: Wikipedia/CC BY-SA 3.0 Mount Sinai researchers have published one of the first studies to demonstrate the importance of reactive oxygen species in maintaining stem cell function and preventing inflammation during wound repair, which could provide greater insights into the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), according to findings published in the journal Gut on October 3. Reactive oxygen species are highly reactive chemicals formed from oxygen. They serve as prime signals of cellular dysfunction that contribute to diseases. Secretion of reactive oxygen species in the intestine is necessary for maintaining stem cell function and important for wound repair; however, it can cause inflammatory effects as well. The Mount Sinai team found the key transcription factors driving abnormal stem cell changes, suggesting a significant role of reactive oxygen species in maintaining healthy intestines. "While it's clear that regulation of oxygen and reactive oxygen species plays a critical role in chronic diseases generally, and IBD in particular, this study provides a major advance in defining the key role of oxygen species in maintaining a healthy epithelial barrier for IBD," said senior author Judy H. Cho, MD, Dean for Translational Genetics and Ward-Coleman Chair in Translational Genetics, and Vice Chair of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. The research team studied the role of reactive oxygen species and NOX1, the protein used to produce these chemicals, by examining single-cell gene expression in vitro and in vivo in mice models, as well as ex vivo in the form of human intestinal biopsies obtained following routine colonoscopies. They measured the amount of reactive oxygen species and analyzed the gene expression profile of intestine barrier cells from mice and human patients with a subtype of IBD known as ulcerative colitis. Intestine barrier cells cover the intestine surface and help to digest food, absorb nutrients, and prevent the invasion of gut bacteria. The Mount Sinai researchers compared gene expression data in both inflamed and uninflamed colon tissues. The researchers found that a combination of NOX1, loss of functionwhich results in decreased reactive oxygen species, plus the presence of a substance known as TNF that causes inflammation leads to an abnormal increase of microfold cells. Microfold cells, also known as M cells, are crucial to regulating gut immune response. The research team found this abnormal increase in M cells, as a result of loss of reactive oxygen species, in stem cells in both the human and mice models. This increase in epithelial M cells drives increased recruitment of immune cells in mice. By treating intestine cells with reactive oxygen species, they were able to reverse the initial defect caused by losing reactive oxygen species during inflammation. "Reactive oxygen specifies released by stem cells are critical in maintaining a heathy gut via maintaining proper balance of intestine barrier cell types," said lead author Nai-Yun Hsu, Ph.D., Associate Scientist in the Judy Cho Laboratory. The researchers encourage further studies, which they said could include direct reactive oxygen species-stem cell modulation therapy to IBD patients in future treatments. The University of Oxford in Oxford, United Kingdom, contributed to the research. Explore further A mitochondrial self-preservation mechanism More information: NOX1 is essential for TNFa-induced intestinal epithelial ROS secretion and inhibits M cell signatures, Gut (2022). Journal information: Gut NOX1 is essential for TNFa-induced intestinal epithelial ROS secretion and inhibits M cell signatures,(2022). dx.doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2021-326305 MONDAY, Oct. 3, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Young women who have survived cancer are at risk of having sexual problems, such as loss of libido and discomfort, a new study finds. The quality of the survivor's sex life is also influenced by the type of cancer she experienced and the intensity of the treatment, researchers found. "This is one of the largest population-based studies of sexual function ever conducted in young women following cancer," said lead author Lena Wettergren, a professor in care sciences at Uppsala University in Sweden. The study, published Sept. 30 in the journal Acta Oncologica, involved Swedish researchers surveying 694 women ages 18 to 39 about a year and a half after cancer diagnosis. The women had been diagnosed between January 2016 and August 2017 and were identified through national health registries. About half had breast cancer and the others had survived gynecological cancer, brain tumors or lymphoma. About 53% had treatment that was rated "very" or "most" in intensity or how extensive it was. The women were asked about their sex lives in the past month in eight topic areas, which were satisfaction, interest, discomfort, pain while engaging in sexual activity and ability to have an orgasm. The patients were also asked reasons for not having sex with a partner and questions about body image and emotional distress. The study authors compared their answers with those of a random sample of 493 women ages 19 to 40 who had not had cancer. The research team found that women who had survived cancer were equally sexually active as those without the disease, about 83% compared to 87%, but a significantly higher proportion experienced difficulties with intimacy. About 45% reported lack of interest in sex, with 34% of people reporting problems achieving orgasm and 22% reporting issues with satisfaction with sex life. By comparison, women without a cancer diagnosis were 32%, 28% and 19% likely to report these issues, respectively. "Our results show two out of three women experienced sexual dysfunction and the problems are related to their cancer treatment and emotional distress," Wettergren said in a journal news release. "These findings underscore the need to routinely assess sexual health in clinical care and follow-up," she added. "We recommend development of specific interventions directed to women in addition to offering counseling and other aids." About 63% of women with a cancer history reported at least one sexual issue, which could include complaints such as vulvar discomfort. Others reported vaginal dryness. Older women and those with breast or gynecological cancer were at higher risk of sex-related problems, the authors found. That was true of patients who went through high-dose radiation and chemotherapy. Feeling unattractive was another key factor linked to lack of sexual activity with a partner. Emotional distress and a distorted perception of their bodies following cancer treatment were associated with greater sexual dysfunction, the study found. More than a half million women are diagnosed with cancer in young adulthood each year, according to the study. The researchers, who also included those from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, urged health care providers to offer sexual well-being support such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), vaginal moisturizers and psychological counseling. More information The American Cancer Society has more on cancer in young adults. SOURCE: Acta Oncologica, news release, Sept. 30, 2022 Eds: This story was supplied by The Conversation for AP customers. The Associated Press does not guarantee the content. (THE CONVERSATION) On Jan. 3, 1865, the Kingdom of Hawaii, then a sovereign state, enacted An Act to Prevent the Spread of Leprosy. Any person suspected of having the ancient disease which is mentioned as far back as the Bible would be inspected and, if deemed incurable, permanently exiled to a peninsula on the island of Molokai. More than 8,000 people with leprosy fell victim to this policy of permanent segregation over the next century. Native Hawaiians renamed leprosy ma'i ho'oka'awale ohana: the sickness that separates family. Surrounded by steep cliffs and treacherous ocean, the peninsula served as a natural prison and soon gathered a reputation as a de facto death sentence. But in the Catholic Church, May 10 commemorates the day one man moved to Molokai willingly: Father Damien. Born Jozef De Veuster in Belgium, he came to Hawaii as a young Catholic missionary and spent the last 16 years of his life voluntarily living in the leprosy colony, before contracting the disease himself and dying in 1889. Canonized as a saint in 2009, Father Damien was designated the patron saint of people with leprosy, or Hansens disease. My research focuses on how Christian theology views socially stigmatized diseases, such as leprosy. Since the HIV/AIDS epidemic began in the 1980s, Damien has also become linked with the virus and inspired many Catholic groups that care for patients. His legacy illustrates the churchs complicated, often harmful views on HIV/AIDS but has also helped people see those who suffer from stigmatized diseases with more agency and dignity. Joining the community Damien landed at Molokai on May 10, 1873. In a now famous letter to his brother, he wrote that he would make himself a leper with lepers, to gain all to Christ. For over 2,000 years, care for people with leprosy has often been reduced to segregation. This was the case in Hawaii, where the Board of Health offered bounties to those who turned in suspected patients. The widespread belief that leprosy was an advanced stage of syphilis added an air of moral condemnation to the policy. According to accounts such as Kaluapapa: A Collective Memory, which documents residents experiences in the colony, Damien employed his carpentry skills to build two chapels, new shelters for the residents, and a multitude of coffins. He provided rudimentary medical care, secured a fresh water supply, and established an orphanage. At a time when fear of being near people with leprosy was the norm, the priest also ate with residents from the same pot, and shared his pipe with them. By the beginning of 1885, Damien began to show signs of having contracted leprosy, and in 1886 the priest formally became known as Admission #2886 to the settlements. Three years later, he succumbed to the disease. Patron saint Damiens ministry garnered an international audience, elevating him to something of a celebrity, and his death prompted an immediate response. The future king of England, Edward VII, proposed to erect a monument to Damien on Molokai, to establish a ward devoted to leprosy in a London medical institution and to fund research on leprosy in India. Damiens example inspired the creation of several other organizations devoted to the study and treatment of leprosy, from the U.S. and Belgium to Congo and Korea. In 1967, the French journalist and humanitarian Raoul Follereau presented the pope with a petition signed by almost 33,000 leprosy patients, calling for the beatification of Father Damien. In 1977, Pope Paul VI declared Damien venerable, the first step toward canonization which eventually occurred in 2009, under Pope Benedict XVI. From leprosy to HIV/AIDS But how did the patron saint of people living with leprosy become, informally, a patron saint of people living with HIV and AIDS? Given the Catholic Churchs traditional stances against homosexuality, condoms and extramarital sex, the notion can seem paradoxical. Comparisons between the two diseases were made from the early days of the AIDS crisis: Both were considered mysterious and frightening and severely stigmatized, with sufferers often viewed as dirty or sinful. Many caregivers were afraid to even touch AIDS patients. Invoking Father Damiens example became a way for religious organizations to legitimize their HIV/AIDS outreach in the eyes of the church and to emphasize their concern for patients social stigma even if the Catholic Church itself was helping to perpetrate that stigma, and arguably the disease itself. In 2003, for example, Cardinal Alfonso Lopez Trujillo, president of the Pontifical Council for the Family, wrote that the use of condoms goes against human dignity. Condoms change the beautiful act of love into a selfish search for pleasure while rejecting responsibility. Condoms do not guarantee protection against HIV/AIDS. Condoms may even be one of the main reasons for the spread of HIV/AIDS. Even in 2009, the year Damien was canonized, Pope Benedict remarked that the AIDS epidemic cannot be overcome through the distribution of condoms; on the contrary, they increase it an attitude out of touch with most U.S. Catholics views, not to mention medical science. The popes statement provoked such outrage that the Belgian Parliament even condemned it. But many in the Catholic Church responded to the AIDS crisis with empathy. In 1985, for example just a few years after the disease had been identified the New York Archdiocese opened a treatment facility at St. Clares Hospital, the states first specialized AIDS unit. A number of ministries turned to Father Damien as inspiration for AIDS-related work, years before the church officially made him a saint. Likely the oldest is Damien Ministries, founded in 1987 to serve the poorest of the poor living with HIV and AIDS, as inspired by the life of the Blessed Father Damien. The Washington, D.C.-based ministry adopted a solidarity approach modeled after Damiens ministry on Molokai, citing parallels between leprosy and HIV/AIDS. Damien serves as what religion historian Robert Orsi calls an articulatory pivot point: a way people HIV/AIDS patients, in this case can use their faith to reshape their experience and gain agency, even as that same religion stigmatizes them as powerless others. As a canonized saint, Damien is embraced by the highest levels of the church. Yet as a man who embraced those the rest of society had rejected, joining them and even dying for them, he also represents people at the margins. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. The Conversation is wholly responsible for the content. Indianapolis (AP) Attorneys for Indiana abortion rights supporters argued Monday there is no rush to suspend a judge's decision temporarily letting abortions continue in the state. It's the latest legal step in the fight over the state's recent abortion ban. Indiana's abortion ban, which has few exceptions, was approved by the Republican-dominated Legislature in early August. But it was put on hold by a judge on Sept. 22, about a week after it took effect. Hours later, the state filed an appeal of the judge's decision and a motion asking the Indiana Supreme Court to take up the case. In court documents Monday, lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana called the state's motion hastily filed and argued the case does not need to go to the Supreme Court. That's because lawyers for the state have not established that an emergency exists that justifies departure from normal procedure and deliberation by the Court of Appeals, the ACLU wrote. The Indiana attorney general's office, which filed the appeal, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. Indiana was the first state to enact tighter abortion restrictions after the U.S. Supreme Court eliminated federal abortion protections by overturning Roe v. Wade in June. The abortion ban divided state lawmakers and Indiana residents during a special legislative session this past summer. The ban replaced state laws that generally prohibited abortions after the 20th week of pregnancy and tightly restricted them after the 13th week. The ACLU filed the lawsuit in August seeking to block the abortion ban. The suit is on behalf of abortion-rights supporters including Planned Parenthood, which operates four of Indianas seven licensed abortion clinics; groups that operate two of the other clinics; and a doctor who performs abortions. Arleigh Rodgers 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/arleighrodgers Ukraines ambassador to Germany has fired back at Elon Musk after the Tesla boss tried out a Twitter poll to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Mr Musk floated a number of ideas to solve the conflict, asking his followers to vote yes or no on his proposals, which included formally allowing Russia to annex Crimea. The only outcome ist (sic) that now no Ukrainian will EVER buy your f...ing tesla crap. So good luck to you, Ambassador Andriy Melnyk wrote. The billionaire was attacked by Mr Melnyk after setting out a string of specific peace proposals to end the conflict, which has now stretched into its eighth month. Redo elections of annexed regions under UN supervision. Russia leaves if that is will of the people, wrote Mr Musk. Fuck off is my very diplomatic reply to you @elonmusk Andrij Melnyk (@MelnykAndrij) October 3, 2022 Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783 (until Khrushchevs mistake). Water supply to Crimea assured. - Ukraine remains neutral. The worlds richest person then added: This is highly likely to be the outcome in the end just a question of how many die before then. Also worth noting that a possible, albeit unlikely, outcome from this conflict is nuclear war. Mr Musk was previously a popular figure with leading Ukrainian politicians after his Starlink network of Internet-beaming satellites helped keep the country connected throughout the conflict. Two days after Russias unprovoked attack on the country in February, Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraines vice prime minister tweeted directly at Mr Musk, urging him to send Starlink equipment. And two days after that the politician posted a picture of the first shipment arriving in Ukraine. A woman will spend at least four years and three months behind bars after pleading guilty to two counts of felony child abuse Monday. Natalie Anne Childress, 25, of 6583 Gold Creek Road, Connelly Springs, pleaded guilty to two counts of felony child abuse inflicting serious injury Monday during Burke County Superior Court. Superior Court Judge Daniel A. Kuehnert sentenced Childress to spend between four years, three months and six years, two months in prison for the crimes. An anonymous tipster told the Burke County Department of Social Services children were being abused at a home in Connelly Springs, said Assistant District Attorney Mitch Walker. Child Protective Services got involved and contacted the Burke County Sheriffs Office, who ended up interviewing Childress and the mother of the children, 27-year-old Jessica Renee Sanders, Walker said. Childress admitted to investigators she hit a 2-year-old child with brass knuckles to correct bad behavior, Walker said. She also admitted to assaulting a 3-year-old child, saying she tore that (expletive) up to correct bad behaviors, Walker said. The children had significant contusions and bruising on their heads and faces, and were significantly malnourished, Walker said. He said the children are in a much better situation now, and are doing well compared to how they were when the case began. Sanders pleaded guilty in mid-September to two counts of negligent child abuse inflicting serious physical injury, and was sentenced to one to two years behind bars. She relinquished all parental rights to her children, Walker said. Childress did not make any comments in regards to the charges. Her court appointed attorney, Steve Cheuvront, told the court she was ready to put this behind her, and had a plan of what she wants to accomplish while shes in prison and once she gets out. Childress was ordered to pay court costs as a civil judgement and undergo psychological and psychiatric counseling as appropriate. Share this: October 3, 2022 by Linda Gallagher Category: Elections This is the second part of my two-part series on election integrity and security. This blog will review election results, the process involved in recounts, and election security measures. Complete Election Results All counties conduct vote-by-mail elections. All vote-by-mail ballots (also known as absentee) are kept in secure storage while not being processed. Processing includes the verification of signatures and postmarks, removing the security envelope or sleeve from the outer envelope and removing the ballot from that inner envelope or sleeve. If not flagged as challenged or needing further signature verification, ballots may then be scanned. Ballots are verified and scanned throughout the 18-day voting period as they are processed and accepted. Ballot scanners are not connected to the internet or other networks. No votes are counted until the end of the election after 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Results are neither known nor reported before 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. After 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, the county election division begins to tabulate (i.e., count) votes and preliminary election results are then made public. As additional ballots are lawfully received, including all ballots postmarked by Election Day, further results are counted and made available until the election is complete and ready for certification. For processing incoming ballots, RCW 29A.40.110 provides, in part: (1) The opening and subsequent processing of return envelopes for any primary or election may begin upon receipt. The tabulation of absentee ballots must not commence until after 8:00 p.m. on the day of the primary or election. (2) All received return envelopes must be placed in secure locations from the time of delivery to the county auditor until their subsequent opening. After opening the return envelopes, the county canvassing board shall place all of the ballots in secure storage until processing. Ballots may be taken from the inner envelopes and all the normal procedural steps may be performed to prepare these ballots for tabulation. (3) The canvassing board, or its designated representatives, shall examine the postmark on the return envelope and signature on the declaration before processing the ballot. The ballot must either be received no later than 8:00 p.m. on the day of the primary or election or must be postmarked no later than the day of the primary or election. All personnel assigned to verify signatures must receive training on statewide standards for signature verification. Throughout the election, ballot scanners and voting systems are physically secured in locked rooms. Elections staff sign in and out each time the room is opened and always in groups of two or more. Since 2019, the record of returned ballots that have declarations with missing or mismatched signatures must be updated each day that a county canvasses ballots, each time a voter is contacted by phone or mail, and each time a voter submits updated information. The record of non-compliant ballots and voter contacts must be sent to the Secretary of State within 48 hours, then the record will be made publicly available within 24 hours of receipt. Ballot Recounts For very close races, depending on the specific numbers, machine recounts may be automatic or may be requested (see RCW 29A.64.011). Some counties set up the conditions under which a recount is automatic. For example, in King County, machine recounts are required when the vote total difference between two candidates is less than 2,000 votes and also less than 0.5% of the total number of votes cast for both candidates. When a race is even closer, hand recounts may be required. During a hand recount, county staff reviews ballots in teams of two and hand tallies the votes. In King County, for example, hand recounts are required when the vote total difference between two candidates is less than 150 votes and also less than 0.25% of the total number of votes cast for both candidates. A final report at the end of the ballot tabulation process includes a summary of how many ballots were received, the final outcome of how many ballots were counted, and also how many ballots remained in a challenged status and were rejected by the countys canvassing board. In the process of tracking ballots and reporting the final outcome, election officials create an audit trail. These reports assist state and county decision-makers in identifying and understanding trends in elections across multiple years and, eventually, making improvements to elections systems. Election Security Measures Election security measures include audits, random checks, ballot-polling risk-limiting audits, and independent electronic audits of ballot counting equipment. Recent state laws have adopted additional election security practices, including auditing and equipment requirements. See, for example, RCW 29A.60.185. Resources The Washington Secretary of State Elections & Voting home page is a great resource for state-related election and voter registration information and also offers links to additional, county-based sources, such as local county elections office. MRSC is a private nonprofit organization serving local governments in Washington State. Eligible government agencies in Washington State may use our free, one-on-one Ask MRSC service to get answers to legal, policy, or financial questions. Butte police reports Burglar caught Police were notified at around 1:50 a.m. Friday of a burglary in progress at the Mountain View Coffee Co., 102 Madison St. When they arrived, a window used to enter the building was broken but there was no burglar inside. After looking over the business video footage to get a look at the alleged perpetrator, night vision equipment was used to scan the area. Hiding nearby was David Scott Micone, 56, of Butte, who reportedly matched the description of the burglar. Micone was arrested for felony burglary and was also wanted on a misdemeanor warrant for criminal contempt. Man with a gun Tanner Michael Carlson, 22, of Brookfield, Connecticut was taken into custody for felony assault with a weapon. At around 4 a.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to a residence on Alpine Road where Carlson was allegedly intoxicated and making threats. He also reportedly had a gun in his holster. Woman pulls knife A call came in before 7 a.m. Saturday about two suspicious people driving a dirt bike, while pulling a dune buggy on Buckhorn Lane south of Ramsay. Lane Michael Cottrell, 37, was driving the dirt bike, while Chantel Marie Cottrell, 41, was in the dune buggy. Both people are homeless and both had warrants out for their arrests he for felony probation violation and she for felony and miscellaneous criminal contempt. Chantel reportedly attempted to walk away and when officers told her to stop, she allegedly turned around, this time with a knife in her hand. The woman apparently changed her tune about the knife after an officer pulled out a Taser gun. She decided to err on the side of caution and dropped the knife. Slumped over At 4 a.m. Monday, an officer was patrolling in the 600 block of South Dakota Street and observed a man in a car, slumped over the steering wheel. When a spotlight was aimed inside the car, John Joseph Rebish, 52, of Butte woke up and got out of the vehicle. In clear view were several syringes, a spoon and a clear baggie of crystal methamphetamine. He was taken to jail for felony possession of dangerous drugs and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Causing disturbance At around 11:45 p.m. Sunday, officers were called to St. James Healthcare concerning a man causing a disturbance. When officers arrived, they learned that Michael William Mallo, 52, of Butte allegedly made some threatening comments to a woman who had a restraining order out against him. Mallo was jailed for misdemeanor violation of protection order. Officers assist At 9 p.m. Sunday, officers assisted Adult Probation and Parole in the arrest of Jesse Lee Shields, 33, of Butte for felony probation violation. Poor judgment In the early morning hours Saturday, Scott Daniel Hockaday, 45, of Butte decided to go to the residence of a woman who had a restraining order against him in the 600 block of West Park Street and knock on the door. Officers later found him in the 300 block of West Park Street and arrested him for the misdemeanor offenses of possession of drug paraphernalia (syringe), violation of protection order and criminal contempt warrant. Hiding in attic Just after 2 a.m. Saturday, neighbors called dispatch regarding a disturbance in the 500 block of South Main Street between a man and a woman. When officers arrived, they could hear people yelling and reportedly witnessed Trey David Clark, 20, of Butte pushing items off the table and onto the floor. The woman left the home, while Clark allegedly hid in the attic. Officers convinced him to leave his hiding place and was then arrested for misdemeanor partner or family member assault. Without incident Late Friday night, an officer observed James Carl Pierce, 27, of Butte driving in the vicinity of Washington and Iron streets, and knew he had a warrant out for his arrest for felony criminal contempt. Pierce was taken into custody without incident. Taken to jail On Friday afternoon, Adult Probation and Parole went to a home in 300 block of East Park Street and found someone who should not have been there Darwin James Bailey, 43, of Butte. Bailey was taken to jail for felony possession of dangerous drugs, and the misdemeanor offenses of possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal trespass to property, and two outstanding misdemeanor warrants. Not his garage Early Friday morning, Jordan Randolph Loso, 35, of Butte was found living in a garage not his own in the 1500 block of LaFayette Avenue. He already had a warrant out for his arrest for felony forgery out of Judge Ben Pezdarks court, but added to the list was felony possession of dangerous drugs (a baggie of suspected methamphetamine) and the misdemeanor offense of possession of drug paraphernalia (syringes and pipes). At around 4:30 a.m. Friday, Phaedra Gibson, 48, of Butte was in an area she wasnt supposed to in the 300 block of South Dakota Street and was arrested for misdemeanor violation of protection order. Recent crimes A check was stolen from a residents mailbox in the 2900 block of Carter Street. A generator was taken from a residence in the 800 block of North Wyoming Street. It was reported that $50 in cash was taken from inside a car while parked at Butte High School. A 1995 Subaru Legacy was stolen while parked in the 100 block of South Washington Street. Two shot guns and some tools were stolen from a garage on Moulton Reservoir Road. A container box was taken from the back of a truck parked at the Hampton Inn, 3499 Harrison Ave. Tools were stolen from a residence in the 500 block of Edison Street. Stolen while parked in the 700 block of West Park Street was a red 1999 Dodge pickup. A man left his keys in his 2007 Chevy pickup on Cape Street and a thief made off with the truck. Two tool belts, both filled with tools, were taken from a truck parked at Montana Tech, 1300 W. Park St. Miscellaneous tools were also stolen. An intoxicated man was causing a disturbance at the Dairy Queen, 64 W. Mercury St., and bothering customers. Officers told him it was time to go and he took their sound advice. MEXICO CITY (AP) The Mexican government or army has allegedly continued to use spyware designed to hack into the cellphones of activists, despite a pledge by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to end such practices. Press freedom groups said Monday they found evidence of recent attempts to use that the Israeli spyware program Pegasus against activists investigating human rights abuses by the Mexican army. According to a report by the press freedom group Article 19, The Network for the Defense of Digital Rights and Mexican media organizations, the targets included Raymundo Ramos. Ramos has worked for years documenting military and police abuses in the drug cartel-dominated border city of Nuevo Laredo. Ramos cellphone was apparently infected with Pesgasus spyware in 2020. They do not like us documenting these types of cases, for them to be made public and have criminal complaints filed," Ramos said in a video Sunday. The other victims included journalist and author Ricardo Raphael in 2019 and 2020, and an unnamed journalist for the online media outlet Animal Politico. Lopez Obrador took office in December 2018 pledging to end government spying. The president said he himself had been the victim of government surveillance for decades as an opposition leader. We are not involved in that, Lopez Obrador said in 2019, in response to questions about the use of Pegasus. Here we have decided not to go after anybody. Before, when we were in the opposition, we were spied on. The report Monday alleged the Mexican army has requested price quotes for surveillance programs from companies connected to the distribution of Pegasus, which the company says is sold only to governments. The report said the hacker group Guacamaya found army documents listing requests for price quotes from 2020, 2021 and 2022. In 2021, a Mexican businessman was arrested on charges he used the Pegasus spyware to spy on a journalist, but the Israeli spyware firm NSO Group distanced itself from that man. The businessman has long been described in Mexico as an employee of a firm that acted as an intermediary in the spyware purchases. Lopez Obrador's top security official has said that two previous administrations spent $61 million to buy Pegasus spyware. The NSO Group has been implicated in government surveillance of opponents and journalists around the world. The company said NSOs technologies are only sold to vetted and approved government entities. Mexico had the largest list about 15,000 phone numbers among more than 50,000 reportedly selected by NSO clients for potential surveillance. 4-H clubs across the country are taking the time to celebrate National 4-H Week. To help ensure the continued support of these clubs on a local and statewide level, the Iowa 4-H Foundation and Muscatine County 4-H will hold its annual 24-hour event, Iowa 4-H Giving Day, from noon Oct. 4 to noon Oct. 5. Its a statewide event, but all of the donations go to the local county 4-H here in Muscatine, Katrina Bostwick, 4-H Program Coordinator for Muscatine County explained. Its been a pretty good fundraiser for us and is also one of our biggest ones in addition to our quilt raffle and the silent auction that we have at the county fair. This will be the third time that Muscatine County has participated in this statewide fundraiser. In its first year, Muscatine County raised $200. The year after, however, the organization raised $1,000. With no set goal in mind, the group hopes to make as much money as possible for the countys 4-H members during this scheduled 24 hours. Its a really great day for anyone who has been a part of 4-H or who is interested in supporting 4-H in Muscatine County, Bostwick continued, and hopefully we can receive enough support to continue to subsidize enrollment fees for members in Muscatine County and to provide support for 4-H members who want to go on state or national trips and any other local county events that we have going on. In addition to participating in this fundraiser, Muscatine County 4-H will cap National 4-H Week with CloverFest, a free-to-the-public event that will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9, at the Wilton High School Commons. Through this event, guests will be able to fully celebrate all things 4-H through fun activities for kids that show off some of the skills and project areas that can be explored within 4-H. The event will also feature a short awards program as well as free ice cream. Guests are also encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item that will then be donated to a local food pantry. To make a donation on Iowa 4-H Giving Day, residents can go to www.iowa4hgivingday.org/organizations and search for Muscatine County. LETTS Around 35 Louisa County residents attended the first of two scheduled Meet the Candidates nights Thursday at the Letts City Hall/Public Library. The meeting included Republican Shawn Maine and Democrat Randy Schlutz, both candidates for the seat being vacated on the Louisa County Board of Supervisors by Randy Griffin, who is not seeking reelection; and Republican Tyler Collins, who is running unopposed for the open seat in the newly drawn Iowa House District 95. The two supervisor candidates led off the evening, which was moderated by Louisa-Muscatine Junior High students Lydia Massey; and twin sisters Payton and Baylie Bartenhagen. The moderators are all members of the Letts Go 4H Club. After explaining the rules for the question-and-answer sessions, each candidate was given a short time for an opening statement. Maine pointed to his experience first as a member of the Wapello City Council and more recently as the citys mayor. He also listed his three business operations in the community. Schlutz described his seven years as an L-M School Board member and his more than 20 years as a volunteer firefighter and ambulance staff member. He also pointed out he had recently retired from MidAmerican Energy. The moderators then posed a series of nine questions to the candidates, with each candidate given two minutes to respond. The first question dealt with the planned U.S. Highway 61 corridor relocation, primarily around Wapello and the southern part of the county, and how each candidate would attract business to the new corridor. Maine said he had dealt with the Iowa Department of Transportation in the past and had assisted in getting additional on/off ramps in the Wapello area. He suggested tax incentives as an important tool for business recruitment. Schlutz said he had actively pursued road changes when the DOT relocated Highway 61 near Grandview, and while he was not as familiar with the plans in the southern part of the county, he felt he could continue to promote improvements in that area. The two were also asked about membership on county commissions and boards. Schlutz said he planned to sit on the boards that were offered to him and assured the group he would encourage local residents to seek appointment to volunteer boards. Maine also said he planned to sit on boards and said his focus on volunteer board appointments would be to select people who had an interest in that particular boards mission. Each candidate was also asked if they supported making Louisa County a Second Amendment Sanctuary County; and if so, would they also consider making the county an abortion sanctuary county. Maine said he believed in the Second Amendment and with abortion, felt it should not be totally outlawed but have some restrictions. Schlutz pointed out he was a gun owner but was not sure Louisa County needed to be identified as a Second Amendment Sanctuary County. He also did not favor identifying the county as an abortion sanctuary, although he did not feel he should tell anyone how to live their life. The two also explained their priorities if elected. Schlutz identified the completion of the Highway 61 relocation and increasing the diversity of county boards and commissions as key goals for him. Maine pointed to efforts to develop new tax funding for ambulances as a key issue. Other questions answered focused on tourism, county staff salaries, economic development and other issues. The second Meet the Candidates Night will be held Oct. 6 at the Briggs Civic Center in Wapello. MUSCATINE The Muscatine County Board of Supervisors received an update on a new position that started earlier in the year and is designed to help increase funding for projects dealing with priorities for several agencies in the county. Community grant writer Meghan Custus reported the grant writing program was a partnership between the county, the city of Muscatine and the Community Foundation of Muscatine. The position is designed to give priority to writing grants for health care, housing, educational training and economic development. Custus said general welfare projects were always considered as well. The priority areas were identified by determining the shared priority areas of all groups involved and agreeing to pursue them as a team. The grant writer was created to leverage partnership in the county and to build relationships with funders outside the county to funnel more dollars for good into our community, Custus said. She said her responsibilities aimed to effectively improve grant seeking in the county. She learns about available grants to determine eligibility, scope and project alignment. As part of the project, over 160 grants were evaluated. So far, $2 million has been awarded from the U.S. Department of Transportation for planning, and it puts the county in a position to apply for a future $12 million grant. Over $7 million in additional funding has been requested over the past 10 months. When a grant is determined to meet the application criteria, Custus sends the grant to a board for further evaluation. The board is made up of Supervisor Santos Saucedo, city of Muscatine Community Development Director Jodi Royal-Goodwin and Charla Shaffer, president of the Community Foundation. Grants are scored based on criteria such as match requirement, dollar amount and percentage of cost of the project covered. Weve modified the scoring criteria as we have gone along to make sure we give all grants an equal opportunity, Custus said. For example, we realized the scoring metrics favor grants that are higher dollar and those grants are much more competitive and usually oversubscribed. She said writing grants took a substantial amount of time. A federal grant, she said, takes a writer about 100 to 150 hours of work. Custus also said that even if the application is rejected, part of the process is getting to know the groups awarding grants to give grants a better chance of being funded at a later date. Custus also said she was working on a data repository so, as people throughout the county are applying for grants, information about the county is available. She also seeks community grant writers to assist in the writing. SALINAS Closing arguments in the Kristin Smart murder trial will take place Monday and Tuesday, Monterey County Superior Court Judge Jennifer OKeefe announced Thursday. Paul Flores is accused of killing the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo student, who briefly lived in Napa as a teenager, in May 1996 and hiding her body with the help of his father, Ruben Flores. 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. Jurors will hear closing statements in the case against Paul Flores on Monday in Monterey County Superior Court in Salinas, while a separate jury will hear closing arguments in the case of Ruben Flores on Tuesday. Paul Flores, 45, is accused of killing the 19-year-old Smart, a Cal Poly freshman, after she left an off-campus party on the night of May 25, 1996, and then hiding her body with the help of his father, now 81. Father and son were both arrested in April 2021. Smart enrolled at Cal Poly after graduating from high school in Stockton, but had previously spent her junior year at Vintage High School in Napa. Her father Stan Smart was the Vintage principal at the time his daughter disappeared. Court proceedings on Thursday were delayed for three hours due to concerns about a juror on Paul Flores jury who has a home improvement-inspired Pinterest board that delved into topics in the case, OKeefe said. The board includes tips on septic tanks, how to test soil pH without a kit and how to remove tree stumps. The juror said she hasnt visited the social media site since 2020 and that the board was created because the house she bought had a septic system and needed to be remodeled. She added she had intentionally gone out of her way to not look up any details of the Smart case and shut down conversations about it if they came up. OKeefe ruled the jurors explanation checked out, and they were able to stay on the jury. Prosecution calls soil expert to stand for rebuttal Following the delay, the prosecution called Angela Butler, senior forensic DNA analyst for the Serological Research Institute in Richmond, to the stand around 2 p.m. Thursday in a rebuttal. San Luis Obispo County Deputy District Attorney Chris Peuvrelle was seeking to clarify her testimony regarding the test used on the soil samples underneath Ruben Flores house. Paul Flores defense attorney, Robert Sanger, objected four times during Butlers testimony, saying that her testimony did not meet the criteria for a rebuttal witness. The prosecution can only call new witnesses or new evidence during a rebuttal to respond to the defenses case. Witness says Paul Flores admitted to killing Kristin Smart: He was 1,000% serious Even after decades, his eyes are what made me believe it wasnt a joke, Jennifer Hudson testified Thursday during Flores' murder trial on connection with Smart's 1996 disappearance. Butler spoke on the stand about soil samples the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office sent to her lab for analysis as part of its investigation of the Smart case. Butler testified that she wasnt concerned or surprised that tests on subsamples from the same container of soil samples sent to her from the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office had different results refuting a claim by defense witness Elizabeth Johnson, a forensic DNA consultant who said the tests are not reliable because of the discrepancy. Butler said she specifically chose subsamples of interest based on color, texture, fibers or other features, noting that its not unusual to yield different results between each subsample. Butler also noted that the difference between a positive result and a weak positive result is something only her lab distinguishes. The manufacturer that makes the test says any indication in the test line of the test is positive, Butler said. The Serological Research Institute has conducted its own experiments testing blood stored on cloths dating back to the 1970s, 80s and 90s, Butler said. The blood still yielded positive results decades later, she said. But the test was not done on aged blood buried 4 feet down in soil, Ruben Flores defense attorney, Harold Mesick, pointed out. Sanger focused on the number of negative results yielded from Butlers tests. It has nothing to do about weighing positives or negatives, Butler said, adding that a positive test is a positive test. I dont think you understand the way sampling works with the test, Butler told Sanger. Anythings possible, Sanger responded. Speaking about a study on blood exposed to the elements over time, Butler said she has some questions as a scientist regarding its results and methodology. For example, the test did not disclose how much blood was used in the tested samples, so one of Butlers questions is whether scientists who conducted the study used up all the samples over the weeks of testing. (The study) isnt peer-reviewed at all and wasnt subject to rigorous questioning by scientists, Butler said. Sanger pointed out that her lab's study on the old blood was also not peer-reviewed. Butler was excused after about an hour of testimony. She was the prosecutions only rebuttal witness. How will the verdict work? This week, each jury will attend closing statements separately, OKeefe said. Immediately after closing statements, jurors will head to the deliberation room. If the statements last until the end of the court day, then the jurors will come back the next day to deliberate. Whichever jury finishes first will seal its decision and give it to the court clerk. The jurors are not to speak about the case or reveal the verdict to anyone, the judge said. When the second jury reaches its verdict, the first jury is expected to be available to get to the courthouse within 40 minutes. Each verdict will be read separately. After both verdicts are read, jurors will be released from the rules to which theyve had to adhere during the trial. They will be allowed to talk about the Smart case, consume media and make public statements. Napa Valley Register city editor Howard Yune contributed to this report. Updated at 10:00 a.m. Friday POPE VALLEY The weekend arrest of a 33-year-old Pope Valley man on numerous allegations of sexually abusing children and teenagers has led parents of Pope Valley schoolchildren to seek a Monday meeting with the principal for details about whether and when school staff knew of the allegations. Meanwhile, authorities announced the suspect is under investigation for abuse allegations going back more than a decade. Benjamin Casas, whom public records list as a former employee at Pope Valley Union Elementary School, was detained by Napa County sheriffs deputies at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at his home on Harness Drive, according to sheriffs spokesperson Henry Wofford. Casas was being held Monday without bail on 19 warrant counts of abusing minors under the age of 15, according to Napa County jail booking records. The allegations include 10 counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a child younger than 14, as well as four counts of lewd behavior with a victim under 15 and at least 10 years younger than the defendant. Casas also faces two counts of sexually abusing minors using force, violence, duress, menace, or fear of injuring a victim or another person. A criminal complaint filed by the office of District Attorney Allison Haley describes three victims, two male and one female, who prosecutors say were abused multiple times between 2013 and 2017. The allegations range from kissing, groping and other inappropriate touching of two boys to intercourse with the girl at her home, in a school library and custodians closet, and in Casas car. The complaint also includes various special allegations that Casas abused multiple minors, took advantage of a position of trust, targeted vulnerable people, and acted with "planning, sophistication and professionalism." Prison sentences for convictions on the various charges range from one to 10 years. However, a clause covering sexual abuse of a child younger than 14 potentially could trigger a sentence of 25 years to life, according to the complaint. The warrant was issued in Napa County Superior Court on Friday, according to online case records. Casas was arraigned Monday afternoon, and a plea hearing is scheduled for Oct. 17. He is being represented by a court-appointed public defender, Ronald Hayes Abernathy. Abernathy didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. In a statement issued Monday, Wofford of the sheriffs office said Casas arrest stems from an investigation in which several accusers described abuse that occurred as early as 2010 both at the Pope Valley school and at other locations. Casas worked at elementary schools in Pope Valley and St. Helena from 2014 onward, and also instructed children as a piano and dance teacher, according to Wofford. A 2014 newsletter published by NapaLearns identified Casas as a technology instructor at St. Helena Catholic School. In a statement Tuesday, Ruben Aurelio, superintendent of the St. Helena Unified School District, said officials have no record of Casas ever working or volunteering in that school system. Parents demand meeting with principal More than a dozen of the schools parents met Lucy Pearson-Edwards who is in her first year at the helm in Pope Valley on campus Monday morning to discuss the allegations and why families were not made aware of them earlier, according to Deanna Reister, the mother of a current pupil and two former students at the K-8 school. Most of the parents said they chose not to bring their children to class for the day. We would like to see someone approach us openly, Dianna Brownell said during a break in the meeting, which began at 9 a.m. Parents who spoke with a Napa Valley Register reporter expressed their worries about a general lack of oversight at the school. Pearson-Edwards, the current principal, is on campus only once a week and her predecessor, Ken Burkhart, was a teacher at Pope Valley as well as the principal and superintendent from 2015 until this June. Later in the morning, Pearson-Edwards read a statement at the school confirming Casas past employment, saying the school is cooperating with the sheriffs office investigation, and announcing that school staff will begin its own inquiry into the case. We are horrified and dismayed by the terrible allegations that have been made regarding a former staff member, she said. We care deeply about the safety of our kids. School officials have been advised by the sheriffs office that no charges are expected against other employees, according to Pearson-Edwards. The Pope Valley school district will call a special board meeting once it can arrange for a representative of the sheriffs office to share more information about Casas arrest, she said. After the meeting with Pearson-Edwards wrapped up, Brownell later organized a meeting of district parents at her house. She noted that the group had met there the night prior for her 40th birthday party, which she said essentially transformed into a strategizing session for the talk with the school district Monday morning. Concerns go back years Allegations about Casas behavior go back several years into the period when Casas was on the school staff, Reister said in an interview with the Register Sunday night. Archived versions of the Pope Valley school website, viewable on the Internet Archives Wayback Machine, list Benjamin Casas as its facilities coordinator as late as April 2019. His name ceases to appear in the schools online employee roll starting the following month. Casas also was listed as a Pope Valley school worker on public payroll websites, including Transparent California and OpenPayrolls. One of the accusers was a friend and schoolmate of one of Reisters older daughters when the girls were enrolled at Pope Valley, she said Sunday. The child, I think, was groomed and intimidated to believe she would break apart Mr. Casas family if she said anything, Reister said about the alleged abuse, which she said continued for at least three school years. Disputes about who knew what when Burkhart, who in August became superintendent of the Alpine County Unified School District near the Nevada border, said Monday afternoon that Casas employment in the Pope Valley School ended in 2019 after the Napa County Sheriffs office advised him to get Casas off school grounds but without saying why. They advised me to put him on administrative leave, and I asked why, and they didnt tell me, Burkhart recalled. Because we didnt have any information, there was nothing to convey (to parents). The sheriffs office didnt give us anything, to our frustration. Unfortunately, the school district was not given information that we could have acted on. Regarding the sheriffs offices announcement of Casas arrest and the abuse allegations against him, Burkhart said, nothing I ever heard about met that level. Anything that was reported to the school was immediately reported to the sheriffs department. But Wofford, the sheriffs spokesperson, said Burkhart was well aware of the allegations against Casas because he had reported them himself. In 2016, Mr. Burkhart reported to the Sheriffs office that he had informed Napa County Child Protective Services of the incidents involving Mr. Casas, he said in an email. As part of the school districts own investigation and disciplinary process, it could reprimand, suspend or even terminate an employee. Wofford also said that Burkhart was in consistent communication with our detectives and was definitely aware of the criminal allegations against Mr. Casas. He added that the investigation at that time was not sufficient for criminal charges. Several of the parents also said they didnt believe Burkharts claims. Brownell said one of the accusers talked to her shortly before Burkhart left the school. She, out of concern, called the superintendent to ask whether Casas was allowed on the schools campus given the allegations. Brownell said Burkhart initially responded when this happened before, but rephrased it to when things like this happen, and advised her to call the sheriffs office. I was under the impression based on the victim that investigations and stuff have happened in the past, she said. Reister said Burkhart would have logically needed a reason to put Casas on administrative leave, and that Burkhart was Casas direct supervisor. She added that she didnt believe that Burkhart was unaware of the allegations, considering his position and because theres been talk about Casas for years. Hes supposed to know issues regarding discrepancies a parent has with a teacher, Reister said. Its his job to know those things. Even after leaving the schools employ, Reister added, Casas continued to spend considerable time on campus, doing volunteer work and visiting his wife, who was and remains an employee, along with several family members of Casas and his wife. (The family members present at the school were sent home on Monday, Pearson-Edwards said at the time, though she later declined to clarify who specifically was sent home, citing potential legal issues.) "Due to the sensitivity of these personnel issues we can't comment further," Pearson-Edwards wrote. "We are seeking appropriate guidance with our legal counsel for any employment-related questions." Pope Valley Elementary School board trustee Claudia Ramirez is also Casas sister-in-law, according to several of the parents. Details of the allegations The warrant includes a probable-cause statement that cites a female accuser who said Casas whom she described as one of her teachers had intercourse with her from the time she was 10 or 11 until she was 13 or 14, and communicated with her under the pseudonym Justin Smith. Two male accusers were both interviewed by Napa County sheriffs detectives in January 2019 and described alleged abuse by Casas, according to court documents. One male said he was groped and abused when he was 13 or 14, while the other said Casas hugged him and touched his knee and leg against his will, then did it again after saying he could not help himself, the probable-cause documents state. Of special concern to Pope Valley parents, according to Reister, was Casas role handling technology matters at the small rural school including handing out computers and repairing and hooking up equipment and whether that role could have aided him in abusing children. We now know this gentleman has been working and volunteering at this school for years. There could be many more (victims), Reister told the Register. And it kills me, and it breaks my heart. No kid should ever have to worry about an adult hurting them like this. In response to Casas arrest, an unknown number of parents planned to keep their children away from the Pope Valley campus for the time being, according to Reister. The school, the sole campus of the Pope Valley Union Elementary School District, enrolled 57 students in the 2021-22 year, according to Education Data Partnership, a data website jointly run by EdSource and the state Department of Education. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Napa County sheriffs Detective Shamus Stafford at 707-253-6031. St. Helena Star editor Jesse Duarte contributed to this report. This story has been updated since the original posting with a statement from the St. Helena Unified School District. Editor's note: This story has also been updated to note that the Pope Valley principal declined to identify which of Casas' family members working at the school Monday were sent home that day. SACRAMENTO Gov. Gavin Newsom's vetoes of nearly 170 bills this year reveal a governor sometimes leaning more moderately than the Legislature, influenced in part by slowing tax revenue and larger political concerns. 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. The governor rejected about 14.5% of bills the Democrat-controlled Legislature sent him. That's a little higher than his average veto rate of 12.5% in his first three years in office and former Gov. Jerry Brown's rate of 13.5% during his final two terms in office. Newsom attributed many of his vetoes to financial concerns. The governor has promoted himself as a champion for expanding early childhood education and, more recently, improving mental health care in schools. He's made flashy promises on both fronts, and put significant funding toward each goal through the state budget. But this year, he vetoed a bill that would have made kindergarten mandatory and another that would have made it easier for children with private insurance to access mental health care at school. In each case, he said the programs would cost too much. In his veto messages for both bills, Newsom said state revenue hasn't been coming in at the rate state leaders expected, despite a projected $97.5 billion budget surplus. He mentioned the declining revenue in dozens of veto messages he issued this year. In total, he said the bills lawmakers sent him this year would have increased state spending by $10 billion, much of which he didn't approve. Additional spending plans need to be negotiated through the budget process, he said. Newsom faced a Sept. 30 deadline to sign or veto more than 1,000 bills, but he still chose to spend nearly a week of the month outside the state, first for a climate conference in New York, and then for a political festival hosted by the Texas Tribune in Austin. He also made time to be interviewed on national television, and picked fights with the Republican governors of Florida and Texas, even challenging Sunshine State Gov. Ron DeSantis to a debate. Mike Madrid, a Republican political strategist, said Newsom's time building his national profile this month overshadowed the hundred of bills he signed and vetoed. Although Newsom has said he has "sub-zero" interest in running for president in 2024, Madrid said national politics must have been on his mind as he decided the fate of bills this year. "To suggest that the governor is not looking ahead at how everything is going to be perceived on the national stage is simplistic," Madrid said. "Of course that's what he's doing." Many political observers saw Newsom's decision to veto a safe-injection site bill that was championed by progressives as evidence of his national ambition. A long list of California Democrats, including San Francisco Mayor London Breed and Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, supported the bill and said they were disappointed by Newsom's veto. But signing the bill would have presented a problem for Newsom nationally, Madrid said. "The policies of California have become a lightning rod in a lot of red states and with blue-collar workers," Madrid said. "This would be a huge marker delineating the cultural difference that California has with the rest of the country. This would not sell in a presidential campaign." Newsom also vetoed a measure that would have reduced the amount of time California prisoners could be placed in solitary confinement, saying it could endanger prison staff and other inmates. One advocate speculated the decision was motivated by presidential ambitions, telling The Chronicle it "may be good for him and his longer-term aspirations, as opposed to what's good for California." On other bills, Newsom fell more in line with what other politicians in his party urged him to do. Newsom last year vetoed a measure that would have increased the amount of money low-wage workers receive when they take time off to care for babies or sick relatives. Advocates this year pressured him to sign an updated version of the bill. Rep. Katie Porter, D-Irvine, broke out her infamous whiteboard to urge Newsom to approve the bill, a message he appeared to heed when he signed the measure on Friday. After initially indicating he would veto a bill to make it easier for farmworkers to unionize, he reversed course and signed it after public pressure from President Biden, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and organized labor. His administration touted some changes to the measure he secured in a deal with advocates that his office says address his concerns, including a cap on the number of workplaces that can unionize under the measure. The Legislature will need to pass those agreements in a separate bill next year for them to become law. Daniel Zingale, Newsom's former chief strategist, said the bill represented the longstanding challenge California governors face balancing the interests of farmworkers and their long legacy of advocacy in the Golden State with those of the agricultural industry. Zingale thinks Newsom made the right call, and said his decision to forgo a traditional bill-signing ceremony flanked by lawmakers and sign the law at a vigil farmworkers have kept outside the Capitol for weeks showed "solidarity with everyday people." "Those are the kinds of decisions that really define a governor," Zingale said. "I really liked the way he did it, too. He broke out of the stuffy protocol." Christian Arana, vice president of policy at the Latino Community Foundation, said Newsom's decision stands in contrast with the actions of Republican governors like DeSantis, a potential 2024 GOP presidential candidate who sent Latino immigrants to Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, in a publicity stunt to protest national immigration policy. Newsom's decision "is happening against a backdrop of Republican governors who are essentially picking on Latino immigrants and using them as scapegoats for their own failed policies in their own states," Arana said. Latinos, a key voting bloc Newsom would need if he ran for president, backed him overwhelmingly during the 2021 campaign that attempted to recall him from office. A UCLA study estimated that 78% of Latinos opposed the recall. But Madrid, an expert on Latino voters, said he sees Democrats' advocacy for the farmworker bill and the pressure on Newsom to sign it as a signal that they are out of touch with the average Latino voter. Equating farmworker issues with Latino issues is an outdated stereotype, Madrid said. "The Democratic Party has a relatability problem with Latino voters, and this is demonstrative of that," Madrid said. "The more they rely on the symbolism of the past, the more they're losing voters nationally." San Francisco Chronicle senior political writer Joe Garofoli contributed to this report. As a physician at the Sacramento County Health Center, Dr. Sharad Jain said he has watched as patients and their family members have been forced to choose between providing for their loved ones financially and staying at their bedside to care for them. 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. These are situations that, at the moment, for low-income workers, there is no good answer, Jain said. It just feels very unfair. A new law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday aims to alleviate that burden for millions of workers across California. Twenty years after California became the first state in the nation to offer paid family leave, Newsom signed Senate Bill 951 into law to boost the portion of a workers salary that would be covered should they choose to take time off work to bond with a new child or care for a sick family member. California families and our state as a whole are stronger when workers have the support they need to care for themselves and their loved ones, Newsom said in a statement. California created the first Paid Family Leave program in the nation 20 years ago, and today were taking an important step to ensure more low-wage workers, many of them women and people of color, can access the time off theyve earned while still providing for their family. The new law will extend the states current wage replacement rates through 2024 and increase them starting on Jan. 1, 2025, from 70% to 90% for low-wage workers earning less than $57,000 a year and from 60% to 70% for all other eligible workers. Proponents of the bill argued that Californias program failed the states lowest-wage earners. The payments rates were so low, they said, that it was not economically feasible for them to take part in it. People should never have to make that choice between taking care of a member of the family or being able to stay at home with your newborn and putting food on the table, said Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, D-Los Angeles, the author of SB 951. What I expect now is that families will be able to stay together, help each other, bond and nurture and all of the things we first envisioned when this was first passed 20 years ago. In 2020, 37% of workers earning less than $20,000 a year were eligible for paid family leave yet only 14% used it a significantly lower rate of participation than their medium- and high-wage-earning counterparts, according to an analysis from the California Budget and Policy Center. For a worker making $15 an hour, a handful of other states offer higher wage-replacement rates than California, including Colorado, New York and Oregon, where they would receive nearly double the amount of money theyd get in the Golden State. Last year, Newsom vetoed a similar plan to strengthen the states paid family leave program, citing budget constraints. There was an elevated sense of urgency this time around, since the current wage replacement rates were set to expire at the end of the year. Without Newsoms signature, the replacement rate was slated to slip to 55%. To fund the expected increase in program costs, the new regulation removes a contribution ceiling for workers earning annual salaries of more than $145,000. The majority of Californias 18.5 million workers contribute to the states paid family leave and state disability insurance programs through 1.1% payroll deductions and are eligible to take up to eight weeks of paid leave. Since the program took effect in 2004, $10.6 billion in benefits have been distributed across 3.7 million claims, according to state data. The expansion of Californias program was celebrated by labor unions and advocates. Sonja Diaz, founding director of the UCLA Latino Politics and Policy Institute, called the measure a commonsense, data-backed reform that aims to remedy a gap that disproportionately affects families of color. Tia Orr, executive director of SEIU California, said it marked a step in the states journey toward racial, gender and economic equity. This is a victory for every hard-working mom and dad, for every son, daughter, sister, and brother in our communities who put our families first, Orr said in a statement. Bonding and caregiving will no longer be a privilege for the few. The US National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) told the House Oversight Committee in a letter released Saturday that some Trump administration records have yet to be recovered, Axios reported. The disclosure comes as Trump's legal team and the Department of Justice (DOJ) wage a protracted legal battle over the ex-president's alleged possession of documents he was meant to turn over to the Archives upon leaving office. The Archives didn't speak to whether any of the missing documents they referenced are in Trump's possession, citing the DOJ probe into the matter. In a letter to Oversight Committee Chair Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) dated Sept. 30, acting Archivist Debra Steidel Wall wrote, "While there is no easy way to establish absolute accountability, we do know that we do not have custody of everything we should." Wall specifically cited official business that was conducted "using non-official electronic messaging accounts that were not copied or forwarded into their official electronic messaging accounts" as an area of particular concern. "NARA has been able to obtain such records from a number of former officials and will continue to pursue the return of similar types of Presidential records from former officials," Wall said. The letter comes in response to a Sept. 13 letter Maloney sent to Wall seeking an "urgent review" of "whether presidential records remain unaccounted for and potentially in the possession of the former president. Wall deferred to the DOJ to answer questions about documents Trump personally took from the White House. "With respect to the second issue concerning whether former President Trump has surrendered all presidential records, we respectfully refer you to the Department of Justice in light of its ongoing investigation," she wrote to Maloney. Maloney had asked in her Sept. 13 letter for the Archives to seek a "personal certification from Donald Trump that he has surrendered all presidential records that he illegally removed from the White House." "The National Archives has confirmed to the Oversight Committee that they still have not received all presidential records from the Trump White House," Maloney said in a statement about the letter. "I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure that all presidential records from the Trump White House are returned to the custody of the government and to make sure these abuses never happen again. Wall said the Archives will consult with the DOJ on whether to "initiate an action for the recovery of records unlawfully removed"as in the case of the DOJ's lawsuit against former White House adviser Peter Navarro in August. https://www.axios.com/2022/10/01/trump-national-archives-records-missing-congress US House of Representatives members visit Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan Taliban, Iran border guards fire at each other Another high treason exposed in Armenia Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan armed forces violate ceasefire in Sotk-Kutakan sector World oil prices on the rise Trump slightly ahead of Biden in New York Times poll Armenia defense minister heads for India Newspaper: Karabakh dissatisfied with President's Yerevan visit, meeting with Armenia PM Azerbaijan fires toward Armenia positions at night Zelenskyy: Ukraine needs much more modern air defense systems Liz Truss is called upon to resign EU to review relations with China White House accuses Iran of lying Poland may not receive 75 billion euros in regional aid from EU Crash of SU-34 in Yeysk captured on video SJC: Criminal case will be initiated against judge Arusyak Aleksanyan Germany fines Telegram more than 5 million euros Scholz instructs ministers to prepare to extend operation of Germany's remaining three nuclear power plants Two people killed in Yeysk after military plane crashed Saudi Arabia rejects U.S. accusations of supporting Russia amid war in Ukraine Only candidate for post of military prosecutor of Armenia is named Expert: Iran is preparing for scenarios in form of attacks on Azerbaijan and sending troops to Artsakh German intelligence service opposes Chinese company's investment in Hamburg port Fire area at crash site of Su-34 in Krasnodar territory is 2,000 sq. m. EU approves military training mission for thousands of Ukrainian servicemen Supersonic Su-34 fighter-bomber crashes in Krasnodar territory Elon Musk on likelihood of World War III EU Commission intends to propose 'dynamic' natural gas price cap this week Dmitry Medvedev: Supplies of weapons to Ukraine will ruin relations between Russia and Israel Charles Michel welcomes rapid deployment of EU mission on Armenian border Swiss MPs horrified by consequences of Azerbaijani aggression: We support Armenians European Union announces new sanctions against Iran Tehran Times: Iran remains vigilant about developments in South Caucasus region Natural gas supply to Armenia will be temporarily suspended Daily Beast: Biden must stop next Armenian Genocide before it's too late Pashinyan: Azerbaijan is looking for pretext to launch new military aggression against Armenia Turkish Foreign Minister: Baku insists on equal status of 'Lachin' and 'Zangezur' corridors Foreign Ministry: Iran has repeatedly stated that it has not sent weapons to either side of war in Ukraine U.S. House of Representatives delegation arrives in Yerevan IRGC commander: Changing regions geography is red line for Iran Uzbek officials banned from being dishonest and swearing on social media Lawyer: Erik Aleksanyan does not accept charges against him Erdogan to visit Azerbaijan on October 20 Baku reacts to Pashinyan's proposal: To suggest 3 unrealistic options is not a good policy Dollar, euro gaining value in Armenia Reuters: Chinese banks sell off dollars to support yuan Armenia MOD: Artillery presence toward Vardenis is linked to Azerbaijan additional forces movement Armenia official: Azerbaijan way of working radically contradicts EaP values, principles Belarus Armed Forces secure railroad, bridges and crossings on border Bird flu found in poultry in Britain President of Artsakh meets with representatives of political forces represented in parliament of Artsakh European Council approves 6th tranche of 500mn military aid to Ukraine Turkey FM expresses readiness to meet with Armenia counterpart Only 33% of Americans support Biden's re-election as U.S. president Norwegian Foreign Minister to pay working visit to Armenia Defense minister welcomes EU mission visit to Armenia (PHOTOS) Valery Brusov linguistics university students holding protest march in Yerevan Russia MOD: Armed forces struck Ukraine energy facilities The Daily Star: Turkey may once again resort to football diplomacy in relations with Armenia Karabakh presidential spokesperson: Delegation that visited Armenia will present details of its meetings there Parliament speaker to Brazil envoy: I call for strictly, targeted condemning Azerbaijan aggression against Armenia Opposition MP: Turkey demands from Armenia to sever ties with its diaspora European Council decides to deploy civilian monitoring mission on Armenia border with Azerbaijan Iran kicks off military exercises on Azerbaijan border NATO begins nuclear deterrence exercises PM: Armenia government waiting for positive reaction from Azerbaijan 8 injured in shooting near US university campus EU civilian mission in Armenia to have about 40 observers at initial phase Ukraine media inform about sounding air raid alarm throughout country Armenias largest taxpayer in first 9 months is Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine Mayor Klitschko reports about explosions in downtown Kyiv Azerbaijan fires at Armenia positions Scientists say humanity could begin to disappear from Earth by 2100 World oil prices going up 19Fortyfive: US strategy on Ukraine could lead to nuclear war Pet dog saves boy from diabetic coma in UK SVT: US will secure Sweden's borders during the NATO application process White House: U.S. supports protests in Iran Asia Times: Dollar's dominance is fast approaching its end Taiwan refuses to make concessions on sovereignty and democracy Netherlands has field capable of replacing gas from Russia Iran plans to connect national power grid to Russia Fire kills four inmates in Evin Prison in Iran Serbia temporarily closes its embassy in Kyiv: Staff of diplomatic mission sent to Belgrade Rallies against price rises take place in Paris Pope Francis calls for reform of international organizations Over 40 people killed in Nigeria because of floods Iran talks Biden's habit to 'fishing in troubled waters' Iraqi authorities open new international airport Sky News: Britain's Home Secretary wants to expand police powers to tackle protests Rogov: Ukrainian troops changed their plan to take over Zaporizhzhya NPP Erdogan thanks Armenia for expressing condolences over explosion Pope calls spending on nuclear weapons unacceptable WP finds out about Trump's demand to co-founders of Truth Social to give their shares to his wife U.S. State Department demands that Iran release imprisoned Americans At least 12 people killed in bar shooting in Mexico Biden slams Truss government's economic plan Americans' nuclear fears are at their highest level since Cold War 3 people die in Pittsburgh 16 blasts heard near Belgorod in Russia Edmon Marukyan, Ambassador-at-Large of Armenia and Chairman of the Bright Armenia Party, responded to Toivo Klaar, the European Union (EU) Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, who has received videos from Azerbaijan. Toivo Klaar, the EU special representative for the crisis in South Caucasus and Georgia, wrote on his Twitter microblog that today he received several videos apparently showing war crimes committed against Azerbaijanis. Also these need to be investigated and if authentic perpetrators need to be held responsible. The conflict has left deep wounds for both sides and to heal accountability is needed. It's clear what's going on, isn't it? When irrefutable evidence of war crimes committed by Azerbaijan comes to surface, in order to counter it, Azerbaijan immediately presents war crimes as if committed by the Armenian side during the 44-day war back in 2020. Just after that, an equal sign is placed between the victim and the perpetrator (as if both parties did the same thing). Moreover, trying to compare any incident during a full-scale war with an obvious war crime committed against unarmed soldiers and de facto POWs during the discussion of the text of a peace treaty simply does not fit into any logic. I am certain that the Armenian forces have never committed such war crimes, there can be no comparison with what we saw in this despicable video. We will not allow putting a sign of equality between the victim and the perpetrator of war crimes, Marukyan wrote on Facebook. Finnish FM Pekka Haavisto said that Russia's new borders, approved after the Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions became part of the country, will not be able to recognize many countries, Newsweek reported. During meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September, he said, his colleagues from many countries expressed concern about changing Russia's borders after false referendums. He noted that there are many places on the map whose borders can be disputed in one way or another. The upcoming changes could lead to a gigantic mess, says the head of the Finnish Foreign Ministry. In his view, many countries cannot agree that changing borders through a referendum is the right thing to do. Countries have to react to referendums or at least not recognize new borders. I don't think there will be many countries that will be able to recognize new borders based on the results of this kind of referendums, said the Finnish foreign minister. The video disseminated on social media since Sunday, in which footage of the shooting of Armenian prisoners of war to death by Azerbaijan was seen, was made at a combat position of Ishkhanasar village of Armenia. Armenian News-NEWS.am has learned about this from lawyer Siranush Sahakyan, the representative of the Armenian detainees interests at the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). Sahakyan said that two of the servicemen have been identified. "The video has been studied, verified; it is real. The incident took place at Ishkhanasar on September 13, with the involvement of Azerbaijani soldiers. It is the Commando newly created unit, which is being retrained by Turkey, and certain support is, of course, being provided as a NATO member country. And the units being retrained plan and carry out war crimes against Armenians, and, naturally, they are encouraged for these actions," said Sahakyan. She noted that nine Armenian servicemen can be seen at the beginning of that video of the shooting. "After which the shooting of the four to death is clearly shown. The unit has been identified. It is still continuing to find out which of the four people are seen who were being shot to death. Other Armenians can be seen in the video. Apparently, the other servicemen, whose shooting to death is not visible, were also killed. The location has been identified, the names of the [Armenian] servicemen serving in that location are known. But work is still being done as to who the soldiers being shot to death are," she said. According to Sahakyan, this is not the first such video, and there were such videos of both individual and group shootings also during the 44-day Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) war in the fall of 2020. "The response has been internationally inadequate, it did not arise from the situation. Not all opportunities, which are currently being used in the case of Ukraine, are being used. Azerbaijan's behavior has been silently sponsoredand this gives rise to new crimes," she said. And when asked why Armenia does not apply to the International Criminal Court regarding this incident, Sahakyan responded: "The ECtHR discusses issues of state accountability, whereas the International Criminal Court deals with the criminal accountability of individuals. In order to be able to petition to the Criminal Court, there must be a political decision to recognize the jurisdiction of the court in a specific case. At the moment, Armenia does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court, and therefore the court cannot examine cases of crimes committed on the territory of Armenia. In connection with the incident, it should be decided that they are authorized to investigate, then as a result of the investigation, they will identify the involved persons and apply accountability to the persons. They will take people to court, whereas at the European Court we have the state as a defendant, which violates international human rights and humanitarian obligations, and the state is collectively held accountable. In the case of the Criminal Court, the involved persons and their commanding staff may be imprisoned and held accountable." Azerbaijan seeks to further occupy Armenian territories and escalate the situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, Armen Grigoryan, Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, said in an interview with Fox News Digital. "Our assessment is still that Azerbaijan continues to seek an increase, further occupation of Armenian territories and further escalation of the situation on the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan," Grigoryan said. "In the 21st century, they (Azerbaijan - ed.) see a solution to the problem through force. This is very worrying." According to him, Armenia is ready for diplomatic engagement. "But we have also publicly stated that we will not negotiate with a gun to our head," Grigoryan stressed. "This is not our way of negotiating, and we are confident that more international engagement in our region will contribute to greater stability as well as peace." He noted that the international community must take steps. "We see that the United States has been very straightforward. They have called for the withdrawal of Azerbaijani troops from sovereign Armenian territory, and we believe that the international community should condemn the use of force, and support diplomatic engagement." Referring to Russia's supply of arms to Azerbaijan, Grigoryan said there is "nothing new" about this, it is a "long history" that Armenia has discussed with Russia. "This is publicly available information. And it bothers us a lot, but it is not a new story." The riots in Iran were pre-arranged by the United States and Israel, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said, Press TV reported. "I clearly state that these events were planned by America, the Zionist regime and their henchmen. Their main problem is a strong and independent Iran and the progress of the country. The Iranian nation has shown itself to be strong enough during the recent events," he said. Protests over the death of Makhsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman who collapsed in a police station on September 16 and was later pronounced dead in a hospital, erupted first in her home province of Kurdistan and then spread to other parts of the country, including Tehran. The protests soon escalated into violent riots, with rioters rampaging across the country, attacking security personnel, vandalizing government property, and desecrating religious shrines. "If not for the death of a young girl, they would have come up with another excuse to create instability and provoke unrest," he said. "A lot of unrest has broken out around the world, including in Europe. In France and Paris in particular, there are riots from time to time. But it begs the question: has it ever happened that the President of the United States and the House of Representatives supported rioters and made statements? Has it ever happened that media affiliated with American capitalism and their mercenaries in the region, including the Saudis, have supported rioters in other countries? And was there a case of Americans announcing the provision of certain Internet equipment to rioters so that they could easily communicate with each other?" He noted that Americans' expressions of regret over Amini's death are hypocritical. "They are happy because they found an excuse to foment insecurity," he said. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received a delegation headed by the first president of the Italian Court of Cassation, Pietro Curzio, the press service of the Prime Minister reported. The Prime Minister welcomed Mr. Curzio's visit to Armenia and expressed hope that the cooperation between the Cassation Courts of Armenia and Italy would develop and that the exchange of experience would be effective. Nikol Pashinyan stressed that judicial reforms are one of the main priorities of the Armenian government and added that Armenia is the absolute leader among EaP member states in terms of the level of independence of the judicial system. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of consistent and close cooperation with EU partners for the effective implementation of reforms in the sphere. Pietro Curzio expressed conviction that the discussions with the Court of Cassation would be effective, and they would promote the identification of the problems existing in the sphere and cooperation in the process of implementation of the reforms. He also noted that the agreement on cooperation between the supreme judicial councils of Armenia and Italy, which will be signed in the nearest future, will also give a new impetus to the expansion of cooperation. The Prime Minister considered ensuring independence of the judicial system to be one of the key problems of democracy. In the context of having independent judicial system, Nikol Pashinyan stressed the importance of political will, consistent improvement of legislation and implementation of strong and reliable system of social guarantees for the judges. The Prime Minister noted that the Government of the Republic of Armenia is consistent in ensuring the latter. Germany, France, Denmark, Spain, Italy and the Czech Republic have submitted 16 proposals for new European Union sanctions against Iran due to recent protests in the country, Reuters reported citing a German Foreign Ministry source. The source added that the measures would target people and institutions that are responsible for suppressing nationwide protests. The countries in question want EU foreign ministers to decide on the sanctions at a meeting on Oct. 17, with no resistance expected from EU members, Spiegel magazine wrote. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Monday that Iran's crackdown on the protests was an expression of a clear fear of education and the power of freedom, and promised sanctions. It is also hard to accept that our foreign policy options are limited. But we can amplify their voice, bring charges and impose sanctions. Which we are doing, Baerbock tweeted. A group of Armenian civil society organizations, led by Open Society FoundationsArmenia, submitted a letter to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, calling for OHCHRs intervention in relation to the ongoing aggression by Azerbaijan against Armenia. Specifically, we request the deployment of a fact-finding mission to investigate violations of human rights and humanitarian law during the two-day attack Azerbaijan launched against Armenia, in the sovereign territory of the latter. In addition, we request a longer-term monitoring mission along the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan as a preventive measure for further use of force and human rights abuses, says the letter, signed by Armenian NGOs. On 13 September 2022, Azerbaijan launched a military offensive operation across the whole Eastern and South-Eastern border with Armenia, striking military targets and civilian infrastructure alike, in gross violation of the UN Charter and Geneva Conventions. It is important that Azerbaijans aggression is not seen as an isolated case and that it is understood in its broader regional context. Across the region, there is a new trend of using force to advance certain objectives. Typically, the aggressor is a much larger authoritarian country that is attacking its democratic neighbor. This trend is setting a dangerous precedent of normalizing the use of force and weakening international frameworks and institutions designed to resolve and prevent conflicts, including the UN. It is also undermining democracy and human rights more broadly. In this context, an adequate and uncompromising international response is crucial to prevent the worsening of the situation and further undermining the international human rights framework and institutions. Since the end of the war, we have been calling for greater international engagement and presence in the region to try to stop Bakus hostile approach towards resolving the conflict. This is now needed more than ever, and a fact-finding mission concerning human rights violations in the context of recent aggression would be a powerful way of engagement. We have also been calling for a civilian monitoring mission along the border between the two countries, and this continues to be relevant in the light of disinformation campaigns and the continued use of force by Azerbaijan. Without proper measures, we worry that the current situation will not only worsen the situation in Armenia but will have a spillover effect on other parts of the region and beyond. The attack on the sovereignty of Armenia deserves strong action to prevent further violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, says the letter addressed to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. The letter is signed by Open Society FoundationsArmenia, "Agate" Rights Defense Center for Women with Disabilities, Peace Dialogue NGO, Protection of Rights without Borders NGO, Analytical Center on Globalization and Regional Cooperation, Armenian Progressive Youth NGO, Centre for Community Mobilization and Support NGO, Coalition of Domestic Violence Support Center, Coalition to Stop Violence against Women, Goris Press Club, Helsinki Citizens Assembly Vanadzor , Human Rights Power NGO, Journalists Club Asparez, Martuni Womens Community Council NGO, Non-Discrimination and Equality Coalition, Pink Human Rights Defender NGO, Public Journalism Club, Real World, Real People NGO, Sexual Assault Crisis Center, Society Without Violence, Spitak Helsinki Group, Transparency International Anti-Corruption Center , Union of Informed Citizens, Womens Support Center, Women's Rights House. The European Commission, which oversees EU antitrust policy, is in talks with Germany over its energy support package, which critics say would distort competition in the bloc by giving an advantage to German businesses, Reuters reports. The 200 billion protective shield, including lower gas prices and reduced sales tax on fuel, is designed to protect companies and households from the impact of soaring energy prices. "We are fully committed to preserving a level playing field and a single market, and avoiding harmful subsidy races," a European Commission spokesperson told a news conference when asked about the German package. "What I can say is that we are in contact with the German authorities on this matter," the spokesperson continued, without elaborating, but noting that it was talking to other national authorities too. The European Commission, which oversees competition policy in the 27 EU countries, decides whether state aid is legal or not after its members are notified of their plans. EU Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton reacted to Germany's plan in a tweet Friday, saying the EU needs to be vigilant about a level playing field. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a speech Saturday that the European Union needs to find a common response to the energy price crisis. "Without a common European solution, we seriously risk splitting," she said. The European Union and Israel have held high-level talks for the first time in 10 years in which the Europeans tried to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid on a two-state solution to the conflict with the Palestinians, AP reports. EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Josep Borrell welcomed Lapid's recent support for ending the conflict based on a peaceful coexistence between Israeli and Palestinian states. This is also what we want to push for. We want the resumption of a political process that can lead to a two-state solution and a comprehensive regional peace, Borrell said. We have to explore how we can put this into practice. Its better to sit and discuss frankly, than to avoid any contact. Certainly we disagree. Certainly we express concern, but I think its more positive to sit and discuss, Borrell told reporters in Brussels. Its the first time the two sides have held an Association Council since July 2012. However, there is no short-term prospect for peace. Israel's military occupation of the West Bank has been going on for 55 years. The last real peace talks ended in 2009, and critics say growing Israeli settlements in the West Bank and elsewhere are undermining any hope of a two-state solution. The EU should very seriously consider adopting economic measures and sanctions against Turkey, Jurgen Trittin, a representative of the German Green Party told Khatimerini. An influential official in one of the country's ruling parties stresses that the West needs to make Turkey understand that it needs Europe and NATO, whose interests it regularly undermines. "Turkey regularly undermines the common interests of the EU and NATO. It undermines the sanctions policy against Russia, acts against international law in Syria, prevents the control of the UN arms embargo against Libya and violates the sovereign rights of Greece, a NATO ally and EU member. President Erdogan is solely concerned with his domestic political advantage and ignores Alliance interests. However, since there are no sanction mechanisms within NATO, nor is it possible to expel a member, the EU must very seriously consider taking economic measures and sanctioning Turkey. Turkey needs the European market and it needs the alliance with NATO. This must be made very clear to it," he said. Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a number of absurd requests during the war with Russia. He requested fighter jets, access to NATO airfields, tanks, anti-aircraft weapons, a U.S. no-fly zone, a boycott of Russian energy resources, and harsh sanctions from the United States and its NATO allies. All of this is trivial compared to Zelenskyy's latest proposal for accelerated NATO membership for Ukraine, writes the American Conservative. At first glance, this proposal is so ludicrous you'd think Zelenskyy was playing up the party to get back to his old profession as a stand-up comedian. But Zelenskyy's latest well-choreographed political stunt is no laughing matter. If the West gives in to Zelenskyy's demands, this winter could turn from cold to nuclear. Zelenskyy said Friday on his Telegram channel they are taking their decisive step by signing Ukraine's bid for accelerated NATO membership. De facto, Ukraine has already proven compatibility with the standards of the alliance. They are real for Ukraine - real on the battlefield and in all aspects of our interaction, the Ukrainian leader continued. Ukraine and NATO trust each other, they help each other and protect each other. This is an alliance, said Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy, however, did not specify exactly how Ukraine has recently helped or protected the United States. And given that Ukraine is fighting a bitter war over its own territory, would anyone think that it would come running to America's aid if it were attacked, let alone be able (in the absence of massive Western transfers) to change anything? The answer, of course, is no. The bid for accelerated NATO membership was accompanied by bold actions by Russian President Vladimir Putin. On Friday, Putin signed several treaties annexing four Ukrainian territories, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye, each of which had held referendums on joining Russia, although the West disputes the legitimacy of the referendum results. At the signing ceremony, Putin promised to protect the four newly annexed regions, which make up about 15 percent of Ukraine's territory, by all available means. This is a threat, potentially a nuclear threat, that the West should take seriously and not write it off as merely a "bluff," as Max Booth of the Washington Post argued. Allowing Ukraine to join NATO in its current state would certainly trigger Article 5, at least as it is interpreted by the current group of foreign policy elites in Washington. If Ukraine makes its way into NATO, money, weapons, equipment and troops will flow in one and only one direction. At this point, a conventional war with Russia, as crazy as it sounds, is the best-case scenario. In the worst-case scenario, Russia will carry out its threats, and the U.S.-led NATO alliance will pull its forces into the fight. In this scenario, anyone who rules out nuclear war lacks imagination. Perhaps Ukraine's application to NATO is symbolic in nature. If so, Zelenskyy should be ashamed of his political stunt in view of a potential nuclear war. Nevertheless, Zelenskyy's statement, whether genuine or feigned, demonstrates the contemptuous disregard with which he views the consequences of his actions. But Western patrons have pushed Zelenskyy to apply for NATO membership as a result of decades of ill-conceived U.S. foreign policy toward Europe through NATO. He knows that if Ukraine can join NATO, the United States will forever foot the bill for Ukraine's national defense. All of America's European NATO allies know this, as evidenced by the continent's appalling national defense spending. If Washington does not deny Ukraine NATO membership, the Americans have nothing to gain and everything to lose. Artsakh Republic President Arayik Harutyunyan, meeting the proposal of the National Assemblys political forces convened an extended sitting of the Security Council with the participation of a number of high-ranking officials, representatives of all the parliamentary forces and Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Recent military-political developments around the Artsakh Republic were on the discussion agenda. Following the thorough discussions, the Security Council of the Artsakh Republic adopted a statement. The statement reads: Concerned by the serious challenges caused by current developments in the world and in our region, Reaffirming the positions of the Artsakh Republic executive and legislative power branches regarding the future of Artsakh, Referring to the September 19 address of the Artsakh Republic President, considering the new developments following it, in particular, concerns of our public regarding some of the thoughts and views expressed in the interview of the Premier of the Republic of Armenia given to the Armenian Public Television on September 30, We, all the participants of the extended sitting of the Security Council of the Artsakh Republic, declare: 1. We record that as a result of the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggression of 2020 and the subsequent two-year military-political developments, we actually have a situation where Azerbaijan, with Turkey's unconditional support, has gained influential leverage and is aggressively using them to realize its most ambitious aspirations. Azerbaijan's actions are accompanied by consistent use of force and threat of force, aggravating manifestations of the Armenophobe state policy, and other gross violations of the fundamental norms of international law. Using all the levers, Azerbaijan strives to ensure its oppressive and dictating position not only in relations with the Republic of Armenia, but also to abort any format and efforts for the settlement of the Karabakh conflict, declaring that it has solved the problem by war. Contrary to that, the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries and other international actors have reaffirmed by different formulations the existence of the conflict and the need for its comprehensive settlement. 2. The position of the Artsakh Republic has always been clear: the Karabakh conflict should be settled on the basis of the full and non-negotiable recognition of the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination and the results of its realization. It is undeniable that in 1991 the people of Artsakh declared independence in conformity with the norms of international law and USSR legislation, and Artsakh has never been part of independent Azerbaijan. Moreover, the fact that the Artsakh Republic is not recognized internationally does not mean that the people of Artsakh have no natural rights and the Artsakh Republic does not exist. Despite all the difficulties and challenges, from now on we will continue our chosen path towards determining and managing our own destiny in our own homeland. 3. The long-term and stable security of Artsakh should be ensured through our own defense capacities, the termless mission of Russian peacekeepers, and all possible tools of the Republic of Armenia. Improving our own defense capacities is an ongoing effort and is in the spotlight of our attention. The Russian peacekeeping mission, despite the additional challenges of recent months, continues to be the main international guarantee of the security of the people of Artsakh. Within this context, we consider the attempts to worsen traditional relations with natural allies as extremely dangerous. 4. The Artsakh Republic and the Artsakh Armenians stand by the statehood and people of Mother Armenia in overcoming all vital challenges, because it has been stipulated by our national values and interests. We perceive that the possible signing of an interstate agreement regulating the Armenia-Azerbaijan relations can become an important basis for guaranteeing the sovereign and safe future of the Republic of Armenia, regional stability and peace. However, taking into account the importance of the interests of the Artsakh Armenians, as an inseparable part of the Armenian people, in these relations, we emphasize that any document that may ignore the existence of the Karabakh conflict, undermine the prospect of its fair settlement, and limit the possibilities of international recognition of the right of the Artsakh people to self-determination and the results of its implementation is unacceptable for us, including the false agenda of its subordination to the principle of territorial integrity. Within this context, we highlight the periodic consultations between the authorities of the Artsakh Republic and the Republic of Armenia on the topic, within the framework of which the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia presents details of international negotiations to the Artsakh Republic President, and the President, in his turn, presents the positions of the Artsakh Republic authorities, including their disagreements. 5. During the past three decades, both the logic and the practical steps of the Armenian people's national-liberation struggle and state-building process were based on consolidating the pan-Armenian potential and directing the political support of our friends and allies in the right direction. Taking into account the positive experience of the past, the best guarantee for overcoming these difficult challenges faced by the Armenian people is the manifestation of national unity. We have always appreciated the consistent support of the entire Armenian people and the Republic of Armenia to the Artsakh Republic, without which we could not have recorded numerous important successes in our struggle. In that sense, there is simply no alternative to maintaining and cementing the Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora trinity. Our national values and interests imply that regardless of anything, Mother Armenia should always be next to Artsakh in all spheres, especially in terms of guaranteeing the security of the people of Artsakh and international recognition of the right to self-determination. 6. It is undeniable that the beneficiary of the future of Artsakh is the entire Armenian people, and the interests of Armenia and Artsakh should be seen as a single whole. Considering especially the post-war context and challenges, we highlight that as long as the Artsakh Republic is not included in the conflict resolution process as a full-fledged member and within the framework of a high international format, the Republic of Armenia is obliged and authorized to represent and protect the rights and interests of the people of Artsakh on international platforms. Those obligations and powers are fixed by a number of internal and international documents, including the OSCE documents and the tripartite declaration of November 9, 2020. Hence, we are ready to conduct negotiations with Azerbaijan on the settlement of the conflict, in case of restoration of the full-fledged format of negotiations, where the Artsakh Republic is recognized as a full party. The authorities of the Artsakh Republic will continue to follow the geopolitical and regional developments, taking appropriate steps to manage the risks arising from the situation." Emory will celebrate National Diversity Week Oct. 3-9 with events for students, faculty and staff. Throughout the week, the entire Emory community can explore programs that address multiple aspects of identity, including ability, ethnicity, gender, race, religion and sexual orientation. To kick off the week, Carol Henderson vice provost for diversity and inclusion, as well as chief diversity officer, will deliver a keynote address about diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at Emory. For me, diversity is the human experience; thats the only way I can describe it, says Henderson, who is also adviser to the president. Its the intersectional expression of the human experience. Were not just one thing. National Diversity Week was founded in 1998 in order to raise awareness about the diversity in the United States. Officially, National Diversity Week falls in the full first week of October and is celebrated on a city-wide or company-wide scale across the U.S., though some organizations observe it at other times of the year. I wanted to do National Diversity Week when I first got here, but realized we needed the different areas of our DEI efforts to coalesce first, says Henderson. Now, we won the HEED Award, and everyone has been doing such great work. I want our campus to enter into dialogue with the national conversation around diversity week. Here are a few events to look forward to during National Diversity Week: Monday, Oct. 3 The week will lead off with a diversity fair in Asbury Circle from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Students will have the chance to find communities that align with their identities as well as explore ways they can help create a more equitable campus environment. Representatives from the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life, Campus Life, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and many more will be in attendance. At noon, the Emory Pride Employee Network will host a trans education panel on Zoom. Attendees will hear from leaders and trailblazers in the trans community. Register here. Wednesday, Oct. 5 Grab your popcorn and nachos for a twilight screening at 5 p.m. of the television series This Is Us at Harland Cinema in the Dobbs Center. There will be a discussion after the screening. During its six seasons on NBC, This Is Us explored the lives of adult triplets two boys and one girl, two white and one Black and how they experienced the same family differently. From class to race, the Pearson family tackles many issues in an ever-changing America. RSVP today. Thursday, Oct. 6 Students on both campuses will be able to participate in evening programs. Oxford College will be hosting a Dooley Diversity Dialogue at 5 p.m. in the Emory Student Centers Mural Room. This roundtable discussion will cover a variety of current events. The dialogue is designed to educate students about concepts that include microaggressions, stereotyping, discrimination, orientation/expression/identity and more. On the Atlanta campus, the Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Books Library will host its second-annual drag show at 7 p.m. in the Jones Room of the Woodruff Library. This event is free and open to the public. Browse the librarys exhibition Forbidden Loves and Secret Lusts: Selections from the Golden Age of Queer Pulp Fiction, featuring queer pulp novels from its collections. Then, get ready for a night to remember featuring performances by some of Atlantas most talented queens, including Lori Devine, Kellie Divine, Myah Ross Monroe, Eileen Slightly and Diego Wolf as well as New Orleans own Reba Douglas. The event will be hosted by drag comedy queen, Lorelei. At noon, The Emory Alumni Association is hosting a virtual professional development workshop, Imposter Syndrome: Tips to Combat Self-Doubt, that will tackle imposter syndrome. In this workshop, Chi Chi Okezie 98Ox 00C, owner and producer at SIMPLENetworking, will explore more about imposter syndrome and three key techniques for overcoming it, including practical behaviors for sustaining a positive mindset. Whether in the workplace or in personal settings, imposter syndrome can hinder our growth and relationships. Register today. Sunday, Oct. 9 The entire Emory community is invited to walk in the Atlanta Pride Parade. Shuttles will leave from the Atlanta campus heading to Emory Midtown for everyone to meet up and show their Emory Pride during the parade. View the official parade map. At 9:30 a.m., parade participants can get t-shirts at a free, pre-parade breakfast in the Jenkins Courtyard at Goizueta Business School. For more information about National Diversity Week events at Emory, visit the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Singapore proposes law to tackle harmful web content Under a proposed bill, Singapore regulators can order social media platforms to block "egregious content". File photo: AFP Social media sites could be blocked or fined in Singapore if they fail to stop users in the tightly-controlled country from accessing "harmful" content under a proposed law introduced in parliament on Monday. Under the bill, regulators can order social media platforms to block "egregious content", including posts advocating violence and terrorism or depictions of child sexual exploitation. Content that poses a public health risk or that is likely to cause racial and religious disharmony in Singapore is also included, the Ministry of Communications and Information said in a statement on Monday. "While some online services have made efforts to address harmful content, the prevalence of harmful online content remains a concern, given the high level of digital penetration and pervasive usage of online services among Singapore users, including children", the ministry said. Regulators can also order platforms to block a specific account from being accessed by users in Singapore, but the orders will not apply to private communications. Online communication services "with significant reach or impact in Singapore" may also be required to introduce measures to prevent Singapore users, particularly children, from accessing harmful content, the ministry said, without naming the platforms. Parliament will debate the bill in November. If it is passed, it would give authorities another tool to control online content. Singapore last year passed a law aimed at preventing foreign interference in domestic politics. The law allows authorities to compel internet service providers and social media platforms to provide user information, block content and remove applications used to spread content they deem hostile. Three years ago, the city-state passed a law combating "fake news", which gives government ministers powers to order social media sites to put warnings next to posts authorities deem to be false, and in extreme cases get them taken down. (AFP) First monkeypox infection detected in HCM City The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health has just announced the first reported case of monkeypox in Vietnam. Monkeypox infected patients in HCM City will be treated at the HCM City Hospital for Tropical Diseases. Speaking at a meeting held on Monday morning, the director of the department, Tang Chi Thuong, said that the infection was detected through health screening. "Were cooperating with relevant agencies to monitor the case and release a detailed report soon," he said. Border gates in the country have been asked to intensify monitoring measures. Suspected monkeypox cases at the borders would be diagnosed and their medical and travel history analysed. Those with symptoms and risk factors would be sent to the HCM City Hospital for Tropical Diseases for treatment. People with suspected symptoms including unexplained blisters, fevers above 38 degrees Celsius, headaches and muscle aches, are advised to come to the nearest hospitals to be tested for monkeypox. They would need to either self-isolate or be isolated in hospitals while waiting for the test results. The Ministry of Health earlier asked people entering Vietnam from areas with monkeypox outbreaks to be monitored and suspected carriers will be quarantined. Iran's Khamenei blames US, Israel for 'riots' Iran's Khamenei blames US, Israel for 'riots' Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday accused arch-foes the United States and Israel of fomenting unrest in the Islamic republic following the death of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini. "I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," he said in his first public comment on the unrest sparked by Amini's death. "The death of the young woman broke our hearts, but what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars," the supreme leader added. Protests have entered their third week since Kurdish Iranian Amini, 22, was pronounced dead on September 16, days after she was detained for allegedly breaching the country's strict dress code. Speaking at a military graduation ceremony, Khamenei said that the "police are obliged to stand up to criminals and ensure the safety of society". "Weakening the police means strengthening the criminals. Those who attack the police leave people defenceless against criminals, thugs and thieves." Iran has repeatedly accused outside forces of stoking the nationwide protests, especially the United States and its allies. On Friday the intelligence ministry said nine foreign nationals including from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland had been arrested. (AFP) * Chechen leader Kadyrov scolds top generals * Prigozhin: top brass should fight on front * Russian state television subdued (Adds analyst comment, edits headline) By Guy Faulconbridge and Felix Light LONDON, Oct 3 (Reuters) - The withdrawal of Russian forces from a strategically important town in eastern Ukraine has prompted two powerful allies of President Vladimir Putin to do something rare in modern Russia: publicly ridicule the war machine's top brass. Russia's loss of the bastion of Lyman, which puts western parts of Luhansk region under threat, touched a nerve for Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of the southern Russian republic of Chechnya. Kadyrov, who has been close to Putin since his father and former president of Chechnya, Akhmad, was killed in a 2004 bomb attack in Grozny that also killed a Reuters photographer, suggested that Russia should consider using a small tactical nuclear weapon in Ukraine in response to the loss. The nuclear warning caught the headlines, but his public scorn for Russia's top generals may have been just as significant in a Russia where public criticism of the war effort from within the top echelons of the elite has been taboo. "Nepotism in the army will lead to no good," Kadyrov said, adding that the commander of Russian forces in the area should be stripped of his medals and sent to the front line with a gun to wash away his shame with blood. Such public contempt for the generals running Russia's war is significant because it indicates the level of frustration within Putin's elite over the conduct of the war while also piercing the Kremlin's carefully controlled narrative. Kadyrov, who supports the war and has sent many of his own Chechen units to fight, said his criticism was the bitter truth about a Russian fighting force which he said allowed talentless mediocrities to let down the country. The defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment. Russian officials say the history of Russian warfare shows that fighting often begins badly until the military can be properly organised. Writing off Russia, they say, is a poor bet. Story continues Asked about Kadyrov's remarks on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "This is a very emotional moment." "The heads of regions have the right to express their point of view," Peskov told reporters. "Even at difficult moments, emotions should still be excluded from any assessments." SETBACKS More than seven months into a war that has killed tens of thousands and triggered the biggest confrontation with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, even Russia's most basic war aims are far from achieved. The vast army of a former superpower has been humbled on the field of battle by a much smaller Ukrainian force backed up with weapons, intelligence and advice from Western powers led by the United States. In a fresh setback for Moscow on Monday, a Russian-installed official confirmed Ukrainian advances along the west bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson region in southern Ukraine, one of four regions Putin claimed last week to have annexed. The defeats in Ukraine could undermine Putin, said Tatiana Stanovaya, non-resident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. "Until September, the Russian elites had made the pragmatic choice to support Putin as a guarantor against defeat," said Stanovaya "But matters have progressed so far that they may now have to choose among various losing scenarios. That makes Putin far more vulnerable, for he may just find that he and the elites settle on different scenarios." Putin accuses the West of trying to use Ukraine to destroy Russia itself but says that Moscow will prevail in its "special military operation" there. In an emotional interview with a pro-Kremlin radio host on Saturday, Andrey Gurulyov, a retired general and member of the State Duma from Putin's United Russia Party said he could not explain the fall of Lyman. He then said troops defending the town had been doomed by "a system ... of constant lying" that saw problems inside Russia's military covered up by superiors. On Russian state television, humility appeared to be seeping into the usual jingoistic rhetoric. "I'd really like us to attack Kyiv and take it tomorrow, but I'm aware that the partial mobilisation will take time," presenter Vladimir Solovyov said on Rossiya 1 state television. "For a certain period of time, things won't be easy for us. We shouldn't be expecting good news right now." TOP BRASS Chechnya's Kadyrov said he had raised the possibility of a defeat at Lyman two weeks ago with Valery Gerasimov, chief of Russia's general staff, but that Gerasimov had dismissed the idea. Gerasimov, 67, is the third most powerful man in the Russian military after Putin and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Shoigu landed Gerasimov the top military job just a few days after he was appointed defence minister in 2012. "I do not know what the defence ministry reports to the supreme commander-in-chief (Putin), but in my personal opinion, more drastic measures should be taken," said Kadyrov, who shed tears for the fallen at a ceremony in the Kremlin last week at which Russia formally annexed the four Ukrainian regions. Asked about Kadyrov's remarks, the powerful founder of the Wagner Group of mercenaries, Yevgeny Prigozhin, congratulated the Chechen leader. "Ramzan - you rock man!" Prigozhin, known as Putin's chef due to his company's Kremlin catering contracts, said in a statement. "All these bastards should be sent barefoot to the front with automatic guns." When asked if his words should be considered criticism of the defence ministry, Prigozhin doused his reply with irony: "God forbid". "These statements are not criticism, but merely a manifestation of love and support," said Prigozhin, who the United States says runs a mercenary army that has dabbled in conflicts in Africa and in Syria. "I, and Ramzan Akhmatovich even more so, are the most cultured of people," Prigozhin said, using Kadyrov's patronymic as a sign of respect. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge Editing by Gareth Jones) Alex Drueke, left, and Andy Huynh arrive at the TWA Hotel on Friday, Sept. 23, 2022 in New York. Andres Kudacki/Associated Press Alex Drueke and Andy Tai Huynh, veterans from Alabama, went to Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion. The men were captured by Russia and detained for 104 days before their release last month. In their most in-depth interview, they told The Washington Post they were beaten and interrogated. Two American veterans who went to fight for Ukraine and were captured by Russian forces described extensive abuse and interrogations during their first in-depth interview since being released last month. Alex Drueke, 40, and Andy Tai Huynh, 27, told The Washington Post they were subjected to physical and psychological abuse and were often deprived of food or clean water during the 104 days they were detained. The two men, both military veterans from Alabama, were detained in June while fighting alongside Ukrainian forces in the eastern part of the country. They were among the foreigners who had traveled to Ukraine to help fight off the Russian invasion and were the first Americans reported to have been captured. Reuters reported that after their detention the men were displayed on Russian state media where they claimed, apparently under coercion, to have changed their minds about the war. On September 21, Drueke and Huynh were part of a group of 10 prisoners of war released by Russia as part of a prisoner exchange with Ukraine. The pair told The Post they had one day of combat on June 9, during their first mission, before being detained. They said they were "abandoned" after the Ukrainian task force they were with was attacked. They tried getting back to Kharkiv on their own before they were captured. They were brought to Russia and held at several sites and prisons. They said they each lost 30 pounds while in captivity. Photos from The Post showed the men's wrists with visible scars they said they received while detained. When Drueke and Huynh were first captured, family members said they went to fight because they wanted to help resist the invasion. The pair told The Post that despite what happened to them, they did not regret going. Now the pair are focused on raising awareness about another detained American veteran, Suedi Murekezi, who was not released, and on Ukraine's military needs. Read the original article on Business Insider A 22-year-old Tilden man will spend four decades in prison for shooting to death a Lenzburg man outside a Collinsville hotel during a robbery attempt two and a half years ago. Caleb D.E. Smith pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree murder in a plea agreement with Madison County States Attorney Tom Haines office. He must serve 100% of the 40-year sentence handed down by Circuit Judge Kyle Napp. Thanks to the diligent work of police and assistant states attorneys, this defendant will spend most of his adult life behind bars, Haine stated in a news release. Violent crime in Madison County will always be met with vigorous prosecution by my office. The victim, Devin T. Judd, 23, staggered into the Hampton Inn with gunshot wounds on the night of April 19, 2020. He later died at a St. Louis hospital. Dakota L. Winters, 27, of Granite City, was charged with one count of armed robbery in the same case. She previously pleaded guilty and received a 14-year prison sentence. We hope these prison terms send a message to would-be offenders and provide some justice to the family of the victim, Haine stated in the news release. A front-desk clerk at the Hampton Inn, 7 Commerce Drive in Collinsville, called 911 after Judd entered the hotel seeking help about 11:20 p.m. on April 19, 2020. A police report stated that Collinsville Fire Department transported him to St. Louis University Hospital. By 2:30 a.m., the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis had been called in to assist with the investigation, Collinsville Police Chief Steve Evans said at the time. Deputy Commander Mark Kuechel, also a Collinsville police detective, reported that more than 20 investigators from three counties worked the area surrounding the hotel. It was determined that the victim was killed during a robbery, Kuechel said at the time. Within 12 hours, we had two persons of interest in custody. ... The suspects were known to the victim, who spent most of the evening with him leading up to the robbery. Story continues Kuechel didnt say where the shooting took place, only that it was somewhere outside the hotel. On April 21, 2020, the office of former States Attorney Tom Gibbons charged Smith with three counts of first-degree murder and one count each of armed robbery and unlawful possession of weapons by a felon and charged Winters with one count of armed robbery. Napp set bond for Smith at $500,000 and Winters at $200,000. In Mondays news release, Haine commended the work of Assistant States Attorneys Lauren Maricle and Mike Stewart, the prosecutors who secured the lengthy prison sentence for Smith during a plea hearing. Haine also praised the quick action of the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis, Collinsville Police and Illinois State Police. The tacos dorados estilo San Marcos from Birrieria San Marcos. (Jenn Harris / Los Angeles Times) Theres no shortage of tacos in Los Angeles. All the carts, trucks and stands I encounter daily hold a promise of something to obsess over. Everyone has their favorites. Here are three to try now. Tacos dorados estilo San Marcos from the Birrieria San Marcos truck Unsolicited advice offered while waiting in line at the taco truck is the only advice Im interested in taking. A woman named Terry (I know this because although she was behind me, her tacos were ready first) struck up a conversation while we waited to order at the Birrieria San Marcos taco truck parked near the corner of Woodley Avenue and Parthenia Street in North Hills. She told me that if Im ever hungover, to come straight to the truck, order a large deli cup of consomme and it will fix you right up. It was 100 degrees when this advice was given, a little after 1 p.m. on a Tuesday. I was not hungover, and I was not in need of a large cup of consomme. But I will keep Terrys advice close to my heart for the next time I need it. What I did order was the birria de res tacos dorados estilo San Marcos. We added this new San Marcos-style this summer because it was so hot and we werent doing as well with the regular tacos, owner Nicanor Flores Jr. said during a recent call. We wanted to do something a little more refreshing. He also wanted to do something different from the countless birria tacos dominating his social media feeds. Flores starts with consomme-swabbed tortillas filled with a heaping portion of birria de res. The birria is Flores mothers recipe from her family in Sinaloa, Mexico, made with chuck, dried guajillo and California chiles, lots of garlic, cumin and achiote. The tacos crisp up on the griddle, then he stuffs them with shredded romaine lettuce, diced tomato, queso fresco, cotija and a squirt of crema. Theres no accompanying cup of hot consomme for dipping. The tacos have all the elements of an exemplary crunchy taco: a lumpy, crisp shell, plenty of cool lettuce, ripe tomato and cheese, but with a rich birria filling, saturated with a rust-red juice thats vivid with threads of chile, cumin and garlic. They're not the piping-hot, melty queso birria tacos you may be used to, but they retain that halo of stewy meat deliciousness associated with the best birria. Story continues Flores said that theres a good chance the tacos will still be on offer when the weather cools down in the fall. The tacos, like Terrys advice, are welcome, any time of the year. Beef rendang tacos from Aldea by Farm Cup The beef rendang tacos from Aldea by Farm Cup. (Jenn Harris / Los Angeles Times) Taco purists may howl, but Ill eat almost anything tucked into an excellent tortilla. And why not fill it with beef rendang? Chef Jania Ferrera is making Indonesian-inspired tacos out of a coffee shop, restaurant and bar at the base of the Elysian Apartments in Echo Park. The third location of the Farm Cup coffee shops launched an expanded food menu this summer, giving Ferrera a chance to introduce diners to her Latin-Indonesian cooking. Its Latin cooking with an emphasis on Mexican spices, but Im also doing Southeast Asian stuff, she said during a recent call. Growing up in Chinatown, a neighbor taught her how to make Indonesian food. When she decided to cook professionally, she searched for an Indonesian restaurant, but with few options in the Los Angeles area, she ended up making tortillas at the now-closed Chevys Fresh Mex in Burbank. She worked for a time at the now-closed Indonesian restaurant Rinjani in Glendale, but longed to keep cooking the cuisine she fell in love with as a child. That early introduction to Indonesian flavors helped shape the menu at her first executive chef job at Aldea by Farm Cup, and it's at the heart of her beef rendang tacos. Ferrera uses short ribs for her rendang, infusing them with dry coconut curry, cinnamon and piloncillo. The meat is braised for a couple of hours until it's swollen with the curry, buckles and almost shreds itself. It's warmed on the griddle before service for multiple caramelly edges. It's an intricately spiced arrangement with bursts of lemon grass, makrut lime, star anise, ginger and toasted coconut. The meat is bundled into a blue corn Masienda tortilla and garnished with a spoonful of mango sambal kicap, a salsa-adjacent chile sauce bolstered by allspice, Thai chiles and an Indonesian sweet soy called kicap manis. It's a dish that will challenge any established frame of reference you might hold for either beef rendang or tacos. And that's a good thing. "It's not a traditional rendang," she said. "My cooking really is just like L.A. culture." Scallop tacos from Holbox The scallop tacos from Holbox. (Jenn Harris / Los Angeles Times) The scallop tacos at Holbox are not new. I can remember ordering them for as long as Ive frequented Gilberto Cetinas Yucatan-style seafood counter at the Mercado la Paloma. And for a stretch during the summer, when its too hot to think, all I want is a pair of Cetinas scallop tacos. Maybe its the way the briny smack of the scallops bumps up against the bright heat of the xcatic chile sauce. Or the way the seafood nestles into a bed of slivered fennel, sweet caramelized onions and soft, blistered cherry tomatoes. Or Cetinas tortillas, supple and highly pliable, providing a rich, corn-intensive vessel. Its all these things and the way the taco encourages fantasies about Holbox, the small island north of the Yucatan Peninsula. It's near the top of my post-pandemic travel list. Until I find myself on the islands warm sand, Ill daydream about the ocean breeze and the bioluminescent waters while I eat my tacos at the mercado, alongside a group of grumbling DMV employees at the next table. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The members of SpaceX Crew-5 (from left) Mission commander Nicole Mann, Anna Kikina Josh Cassada and Koichi Wakata wave to the cameras after arrival at Kennedy Space Center Saturday, October 1, 2022. They are scheduled to launch Oct. 5 on a mission to the International Space Station. Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY via USA TODAY NETWORK Busy week for launches on the Space Coast now that Ian has left Now that Hurricane Ian has passed largely sparing the area, the Space Coast will be busy catching up on launches this week. If the current schedule holds, there will be launches Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week. First up, United Launch Alliance with an Atlas V mission to carry to communications satellite for the European company SES. That launch is set for 5:36 p.m. Tuesday from Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Forces Station. Wednesday, SpaceX is set to launch a crew of four to the International Space Station. The mission, the fifth under a contract with NASA will carry to two American astronauts, a representative for Japan's space agency and a Russian cosmonaut. The launch is set for noon Wednesday from pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center. The last launch of the week is set for Thursday evening. That mission features SpaceX launching two commercial communications satellites. Artemis I now set for November NASAs giant moon rocket Artemis I is rolled back into the Vehicle Assembly Building early Tuesday, September, 27, 2002 to protect it from Hurricane Ian. Mandatory Credit: Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY via USA TODAY NETWORK NASA officials were hoping to get the Artemis I moon mission of the pad before Hurricane Ian approached, but ultimately made the decision to roll the giant SLS moon rocket back to the VAB when it appeared that Ian would wallop the Space Coast. NASA is now looking to November to launch the uncrewed mission to the moon and back. "There was no damage to Artemis flight hardware, and facilities are in good shape with only minor water intrusion identified in a few locations," NASA said Friday. "As teams complete post-storm recovery operations, NASA has determined it will focus Artemis I launch planning efforts on the launch period that opens Nov. 12 and closes Nov. 27." A 25+ year veteran of FLORIDA TODAY, John McCarthy currently oversees the space team and special projects. Support quality local journalism by subscribing to FLORIDA TODAY. You can contact McCarthy at 321-752-5018 or jmccarthy@floridatoday.com. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 321 Launch: Space news you may have missed over the past week A Filipino domestic worker in Singapore has become a successful entrepreneur who runs multiple businesses after her employer of 22 years paid for her business classes. Jocelyn Mompal, 58, recently shared with Shin Min Daily News that her long-time employer, surnamed Wang, was instrumental in her drive to improve herself. According to Mompal, Wang convinced her to sign up for entrepreneurship, time and money management courses in 2008 and footed the bill. The 75-year-old educator even brought Mompal with her to drama workshops. "[Wang] supports me, understands me, gives me enough freedom, and encourages me to continue to learn and improve myself," Mompal was quoted as saying. More from NextShark: Vietnam arrests noodle vendor for his viral imitation of Salt Bae Today, Mompal owns and manages a travel agency and shoe store in Iloilo City, Philippines. She is also a proud owner of a condominium unit in Manila. Mompal started working as a maid for Wang in 2000 and has since come to be considered part of the family. Wang even attended the wedding of Mompals daughter in the Philippines. "I treated her family like my own," she said. More from NextShark: 'Influencers' to Get COVID-19 Vaccine FIRST in Indonesia When Mompal's three children and her granddaughter visited Singapore for three weeks back in 2018, Wang welcomed them all into her home. Wang shared that she felt Mompal is now equipped to have a sustainable source of income when she reaches her 70s. "She never borrowed a penny from me and we trust each other very much," Wang added. More from NextShark: MSNBC Deliberately Declined Interview With Andrew Yang, Ex Producer Confirms Mompal still has two years left until her eligibility to work as a domestic worker comes to an end, as the maximum age for domestic workers that Singapores Ministry of Manpower allows is 60 years old. "I'll miss her very much, Mompal said. Thanks to her encouragement and allowing me to start my own business, I will have an independent source of income after retirement. Story continues More from NextShark: Got7 makes highly anticipated comeback after JYP exit with music video for 'Nanana' Featured Image via Jocelyn Mompal A 7-year-old boy was hospitalized with a shattered femur after he was shot while pulling up to church with loved ones, according to his family in Illinois. As they were arriving at church, they saw a man going through their grandmothers car, according to a GoFundMe raising money for the boy. The man had broken into the vehicle parked near Universal Community Missionary Baptist Church, CBS reported. Police said a relative confronted the man, WLS reported, and he began firing his rifle toward the family. In an incident report, Chicago police said officers were called to the shooting in the 10800 block of South State Street at about 11:20 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2. Detectives said the 7-year-old was shot once in his left thigh. Family rushed him to a hospital, where he was then taken to a childrens hospital in stable condition, according to WGN. Area police officers chased the suspected shooter and arrested him, WLS reported. Family members identified the man as the shooter. I want to commend our 5th District officers for their quick response, Deputy Chief Larry Snelling told the TV station. They were in this area performing post-shooting and violence reduction missions, and they were able to respond immediately. They gave chase and were able to take that suspect into custody. The boys mom, Keshawana Barr, said her family is traumatized and hurt from this senseless act of violence. My baby life is at a standstill for months. He has to get rods put in his leg due to his femur being shattered by the bullet, she said in a Facebook post. I was so scared and traumatized and my baby is mentally not okay and is in so much pain. All our kids and my husband and mother was in our car when that dude shot at our car for no reason at all. No man should have to run their 7 year old son covered in blood in the hospital because he was shot, she continued. He is just a kid. This is our baby. High school football players ambushed after scrimmage, PA cops say. 5 shot, 1 killed Stray bullet smashes through brewery wall, hits customer in head, California cops say Diner shot eating midnight meal after server confronts dine-and-dashers, MO cops say A 26-year-old woman was fatally shot after a man mistook her for someone else, authorities in North Carolina say. Quintia Miller was staying at Rowan Point Apartments in Mocksville when she was killed Monday, Oct. 3, according to a new release posted Facebook from Davie County Sheriffs Office. Harold Reid Jr., 78, has been taken into custody for the shooting and and faces a murder charge, according to the news release. Reid was due in court Monday to be tried for first-degree sexual offense and indecent liberties with a child, according to the news release. Officials believe that Reid went to the apartment complex looking for someone who was involved in the case against him. Once there, Reid mistook Miller for the person he was looking for and confronted her before shooting her, the sheriffs post said. Officers with the United States Marshals Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force and Davie County Sheriffs Office were at the apartment complex around 7:30 a.m. Monday morning looking for a wanted person in an unrelated case when they heard gunshots, the Facebook post says. When law enforcement responded to the scene, deputies say an officer with the U.S. Marshals fired his weapon at the suspect. The suspect was not injured and deputies were able to take him into custody. The officers did not locate the wanted person they were searching for at the complex. Anyone with information related to this case can contact detectives at 336-751-6238 or at sheriff@dcsonc.com. Mocksville is about 60 miles northeast of Charlotte. Man accused of using AK-47 to kill woman walking her dog found guilty in Colorado Woman who was 8 months pregnant is shot and killed leaving gas station, Texas cops say Armed man faked being a customer to rob a store the clerk stopped him, TX cops say NBC Sports Boston Josh Allen led the Bills to an exciting comeback win over the Chiefs on Sunday, but it's what the star quarterback did after the game that's getting a lot of attention. Sacheen Littlefeather, the Native American activist who declined Marlon Brando's Best Actor Oscar for him in a memorable 1973 speech, passed away on Sunday. She was 75 years old. Littlefeather died at her home in Novato, California, after a years-long battle with breast cancer, which eventually metastasized to her right lung. The activist, who also worked as an actress, changed her name from Marie Louise Cruz to Sacheen Littlefeather after rediscovering her Native American heritage and becoming active in protests as a young woman. After Liv Ullmann and Roger Moore announced that Marlon Brando won Best Actor for his performance as Vito Corleone in "The Godfather", Littlefeather surprised audiences by walking on stage in his place. In a speech that shocked the country at the time, the 26-year-old Apache activist began by introducing herself and explaining that she was representing the "Godfather" actor. ACADEMY APOLOGIZES TO SACHEEN LITTLEFEATHER NEARLY 50 YEARS AFTER REJECTING AN OSCAR ON MARLON BRANDO'S BEHALF "[Brando] very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award. And the reasons for this being are the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry excuse me and on television in movie reruns, and also with recent happenings at Wounded Knee," she said, referencing the Wounded Knee Occupation of 1973. "I beg at this time that I have not intruded upon this evening, and that we will in the future, our hearts and our understandings, will meet with love and generosity," she added. Littlefeather, who appeared nervous during her speech and was booed by a few attendees, received both harassment and praise after the event. In August, the Academy wrote a formal apology to her for the "emotional burden" that she carried for 49 years. "The abuse you endured because of this statement was unwarranted and unjustified," David Rubin, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, wrote to Littefeather. "The emotional burden you have lived through and the cost to your own career in our industry are irreparable." Story continues CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "For too long the courage you showed has been unacknowledged. For this, we offer both our deepest apologies and our sincere admiration," he added. Two weeks before her death, the Academy honored her at an event called "An Evening with Sacheen Littlefeather." On Sunday, the Academy tweeted a quote the activist made about her legacy. "When I am gone, always be reminded that whenever you stand for your truth, you will be keeping my voice and the voices of our nations and our people alive," the quote read. Littlefeather's family asked mourners to make donations to American Indian Child Resource Center in Oakland, California. As an investor its worth striving to ensure your overall portfolio beats the market average. But the risk of stock picking is that you will likely buy under-performing companies. Unfortunately, that's been the case for longer term Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) shareholders, since the share price is down 22% in the last three years, falling well short of the market return of around 27%. The falls have accelerated recently, with the share price down 11% in the last three months. However, one could argue that the price has been influenced by the general market, which is down 6.1% in the same timeframe. Although the past week has been more reassuring for shareholders, they're still in the red over the last three years, so let's see if the underlying business has been responsible for the decline. View our latest analysis for Agnico Eagle Mines There is no denying that markets are sometimes efficient, but prices do not always reflect underlying business performance. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS). During five years of share price growth, Agnico Eagle Mines moved from a loss to profitability. We would usually expect to see the share price rise as a result. So it's worth looking at other metrics to try to understand the share price move. We note that, in three years, revenue has actually grown at a 25% annual rate, so that doesn't seem to be a reason to sell shares. It's probably worth investigating Agnico Eagle Mines further; while we may be missing something on this analysis, there might also be an opportunity. The image below shows how earnings and revenue have tracked over time (if you click on the image you can see greater detail). We consider it positive that insiders have made significant purchases in the last year. Having said that, most people consider earnings and revenue growth trends to be a more meaningful guide to the business. If you are thinking of buying or selling Agnico Eagle Mines stock, you should check out this free report showing analyst profit forecasts. Story continues What About Dividends? It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. We note that for Agnico Eagle Mines the TSR over the last 3 years was -17%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. The dividends paid by the company have thusly boosted the total shareholder return. A Different Perspective While it's certainly disappointing to see that Agnico Eagle Mines shares lost 15% throughout the year, that wasn't as bad as the market loss of 22%. Longer term investors wouldn't be so upset, since they would have made 0.1%, each year, over five years. It could be that the business is just facing some short term problems, but shareholders should keep a close eye on the fundamentals. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Agnico Eagle Mines better, we need to consider many other factors. To that end, you should learn about the 4 warning signs we've spotted with Agnico Eagle Mines (including 1 which is significant) . There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on US exchanges. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here The dead pilot from Bucha, who led the Matyushenko, known by the call sign Did (Grandpa) was the head of the Ukrainian Air Forces 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade, which guards the skies over the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. For their exploits in shooting down Russian aircraft in the early part of the full-scale invasion, the unit became known collectively as The Ghost of Kyiv a mythical Ukrainian ace fighter pilot. Matyushenko passed on his invaluable experience to the younger generation of fighter pilots, Fedoruk wrote. And only now can we tell the true story: The Ghosts of Kyiv were led by a pilot from Bucha." Read also: Ghost of Kyiv mural unveiled in Ukrainian capital in celebration of Aviation Day Matyushenko flew many types of military and civilian aircraft during his life, serving in various military units. He also worked as a manager at a Ukrainian airline before Russia launched its full-scale war. After Matyushenko took command of the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade, it never suffered losses in the air, Fedoruk said. Matyushenko's comrades tell about one particular incident one night, Did rushed into an aerial battle in an Aero L-39 Albatross training jet, simulating an attack by a Ukrainian MiG-29 on a pair of Russian Su-30s. Fooled by the ruse, the enemy retreated. Read also: Top Ukrainian pilot, medal winner, killed in action Later on, the colonel decided to strengthen Ukraines control of the airspace on the southern and eastern fronts. "When Did found out about the irreversible losses of trained bomber crews, a decision was made. This is how a new operation began," Fedoruk said. Matyushenko went on a bombing mission himself. It was the last one for the 61-year-old Matyushenko. He never returned from the flight, having been shot down over the Black Sea, and the search and rescue mission for him went on for a long time before his body was recovered. The hero set off on his last journey home, to Bucha on Oct. 2. The funeral ceremony was scheduled to be held on Oct. 3, at 2.00 p.m., on the Alley of Heroes (at the cemetery on Deputatska Street, 1, Bucha). Story continues In April, the command of the Ukrainian Air Force of the AFU responded to an article in the UK newspaper The Times, which claimed that the legendary "Ghost of Kyiv" was in fact the Hero of Ukraine, Major Stepan Tarabalka, who was reported killed. Read also: Ukraines Air Force Command reveals real identity of legendary pilot Ghost of Kyiv The Air Force said that this was not true, as "The Ghost of Kyiv" was rather the collective image of the pilots of the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade, who guard the skies over the Ukrainian capital. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine The Air Force is rolling out a major change to how airmen prepare for combat deployments, hoping to reinforce those skills year-round rather than scramble at the last minute. Americas airmen are worn out after decades of war in the Middle East. Their squadrons need a more predictable schedule in order to rest and recharge. But the service also wants to be able to respond to threats at a moments notice. That requires constant preparation and practice. Service officials think theyve found the solution in a new initiative called Ready Airman Training. Can the Air Force find a smarter way to deploy? That plan, which formally took effect Oct. 1, aims to build a solid foundation of field knowledge for the next era of combat. Officials hope it will make airmen more flexible and effective in the long run. Weve had a very stable and manageable approach to deployments, Maj. Gen. Albert Miller, the services training and readiness director, told Air Force Times in an exclusive interview Sept. 30. We [could] have them ready to deploy in a just-in-time fashion. Weve recognized now that we really should not have that as our approach, he added. Ready Airman Training is part of Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Charles CQ Brown Jr.s plan to move the service from its longtime expeditionary deployment model which for years has provided forces to commanders around the globe nonstop but hurt training, crew rest and airmens home lives to a more methodical approach. The cyclical force generation process rotates through four phases: reset, prepare, ready and available to commit. That formally began service-wide on Oct. 1, too. Lead wing plan for Air Force deployments takes shape at nine bases One-fourth of the Air Force will be in each phase at any given time. Each step lasts six months, meaning units would ideally go more than a year between combat deployments. The service has traditionally asked units to pack their pre-deployment training spanning a dozen subjects from cross-cultural communication to survival techniques into the final month before they leave. That only adds more stress for airmen already trying to find people to pay their bills, water their plants or care for their pets while theyre gone, Miller said. Story continues Now, squadrons will spread out that training across 18 months before they can be assigned overseas. This lessens the amount of training in any one month and increases an airmans ability to retain the information through repeated training events, Miller said in a Sept. 29 memo. He hopes it will create a new mindset: Im ready to do anything the nation calls me to do at any given time, because I do this consistent drumbeat of training to be ready. The US has spent billions on equipment and training in Europe to deter Russia. Is it enough? Airmen dont have to check off each topic in a specific order. Instead, they should be sprinkled throughout the year. Thats particularly true for refresher courses, when someone may not need to rehash as much information. Small firearms training, for example, typically entails visiting a gun range and walking through the steps like proper handling, sight alignment and clearing barrels. In the future, Miller said, a unit could bake some of those lessons into an exercise, or invite an expert to discuss it at a commanders call. Its little reminders of what they learned when they were at the range [in] the initial training, to keep that level of readiness up over time, he said. How much training an airman has to do depends on how up-to-date they are on those skills. Airmen who are considered inexperienced will need to log 40 hours of training, up from the previous expectation of 30 hours. Somebodys going to say, Well, youre just asking us to do more, Miller said. Yes, we are asking you to do more. But the reason is, we need you to increase your basic airman readiness. Once an airman qualifies as experienced, they wont have to log as many training hours in order to remain current. The requirement drops to 24 hours for experienced airmen and 15 hours for those who are in staff roles or are nondeployable. China, Russia loom over routine air operations across the globe Commanders will decide who is experienced or not for the next four years. After that, airmen who have completed the full gamut of training for at least four consecutive years, or two force-generation cycles, will count as experienced, Millers memo said. Airmen who havent will be deemed inexperienced. To make sure people are on track, unit leaders are asked to include that progress in monthly readiness assessments that are sent to higher headquarters. Airmen would still complete job-specific training on top of that baseline, Miller said. The same goes for agile combat employment exercises, which teach airmen how to handle missions without their normal resources, and multi-capable airman training to broaden someones skills beyond their own specialty. The active duty Air Force has two years to fully adopt the new plan, while the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard have four years. Its a lot of the same stuff, but packaged to be more ready for almost anything, Miller said. U.S. forces over the weekend conducted an airstrike in Somalia that killed a top leader of the al-Shabaab extremist group, the Pentagon said Monday. In coordination with the Somali government, U.S. Africa Command (Africom) conducted the airstrike on Saturday, Oct. 1, near Jilib, roughly 370 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu. Africom did not name the target of the attack, though the Somali Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism on Sunday identified the militant killed as Abdullahi Nadir. Nadir, who the Somali government said had been wanted for a long time, had a $3 million U.S. bounty on his head. Al-Shabaab is the largest and most kinetically active al-Qaeda network in the world and has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. forces and threaten U.S. security interests, according to an Africom statement. U.S. Africa Command, alongside its partners, continues to take action to prevent this malicious terrorist group from planning and conducting attacks on civilians. The statement claims no civilians were injured or killed in the strike. The Somali government has announced a total war against al-Shabaab, which controls major swaths of land in the south and central parts of the country. To help with that effort, President Biden in May announced 500 U.S. troops would be redeployed to Somalia to help train, advise and equip partner forces. Saturdays strike is at least the fifth since the beginning of August, with the most recent being on Sept. 18. In that strike, Africom claimed it killed 27 al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking Somali forces. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) Islamic extremist fighters on Monday targeted the local Somali government headquarters in the Hiran region, leaving 20 people dead and 36 wounded in a town at the center of a recent mobilization against the extremists, officials and witnesses said. The Somalia-based al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack in Beledweyne, a town more than 300 kilometers (186 miles) north of Somalias capital, Mogadishu. Somalias government earlier Monday announced that it and international partners had killed a top al-Shabab leader, Abdullahi Nadir, over the weekend. The U.S. military said it conducted an airstrike on Saturday in southwest Somalia but didnt name the al-Shabab leader killed. The Hiran governor, Ali Jayte Osman, who survived Mondays attack, told The Associated Press that the health minister of Hirshabelle state and the deputy governor of Hiran in charge of finance were among those killed in Mondays attack. At least 36 others were hurt. The first explosion occurred at the entrance gate, and after a few minutes a big truck rushed toward the headquarters building and exploded, killing many civilians who came to the office to receive services, the governor said. This attack was carried out by cowards, but their brutal acts will never distract from the public uprising against them." He said the attack badly damaged the administrations headquarters. Witness Elmi Hassan told the AP that a truck laden with explosives rammed the government headquarters around 10:00 a.m. I have seen with my own eyes several bodies that were discovered from the wreckage of the attack, human flesh scattered on the ground, he said. The police commissioner of Beledweyne, Bishar Hussein Jimale, said the attack occurred at the Lama-Galaay military camp that also serves as the government headquarters. What happened here today is a disaster that killed many innocent people, including government officials, civilians and security personnel, he said. Despite the attack, some residents remained defiant as efforts continued in the region to seize communities back from al-Shabab control. We will not be intimidated by this and we will not stay away from our battle against the terrorists. We will fight until the end, until we defeat you," resident Hassan Ali said. TIRANA, Albania (AP) Albanian authorities on Monday denied the country's police system was hacked after local media reported that data on people being investigated for crimes was released from an Iranian hacking group. Albanian media reported a leaked file with a list of suspected people, from allegedly the police database, who are being probed on different crimes. Ervin Karamuco, a criminology professor, was quoted in social media as saying a channel called Homeland Justice had published 1.7 gigabytes of criminal data from the Memex police system. State police denied its Memex system was damaged but urged local media not to publish data from hackers. Interior Minister Bledi Cuci said that list had not come from the criminal police database. He said Microsoft and the FBI were helping Albanian authorities recuperate the affected systems. Speaking at the Parliament, Prime Minister Edi Rama said the list aimed at creating social disturbances by issuing a photo-edited list mixing criminals with politicians, with journalists. Last month Albania cut diplomatic ties with Iran over a July 15 cyberattack that temporarily shut down numerous Albanian government digital services and websites. Rama called the disruption an act of state aggression. After Tirana severed ties with Tehran, a second cyberattack from the same Iranian source struck an information system that records Albanian border entries and exits, creating delays for travelers. NATO, the United States and the European Union denounced the attack and supported Albanias move to cut diplomatic ties with Tehran. The U.S. government imposed sanctions on Irans intelligence agency and its leadership in response to the July cyberattack. Albania, a NATO member, is being helped by the alliance, the U.S. and the EU to investigate and install better cyberdefenses. A man was dismissed from his job after he went viral for hurling anti-Asian remarks at an Asian man and woman in Bolton, England, during an altercation. An investigation is underway into the incident that happened near the Asda supermarket on Blackburn road in Bolton on Friday. The incident took place shortly after the couple and the man were involved in a collision. The man, who was dressed in a uniform belonging to trucking company Accolade Logistics, admits to being a racist in the video. I am racist, he says. I hate you. More from NextShark: SF DA Jenkins to Asian Americans at town hall: 'You are now seen and heard' The company has been notified, police have been informed and I am looking into it because we absolutely do not tolerate racist incidents or racism of any kind in Bolton, Councilor Rabiya Jiva of Bolton Council told The Bolton News. More from NextShark: Legendary Vietnamese Singer Le Thu Passes Away at 78 After Getting COVID-19 We absolutely cannot accept this, Jiva added. Especially when it is done openly and this individual was in uniform. We will not tolerate this kind of behavior and police are investigating. In a statement by Accolade Logistics, the company acknowledged the viral racist incident and announced the mans removal from his job. Story continues We would like to profoundly apologize to anyone that has witnessed or seen this totally unacceptable racist outburst, the company wrote. Accolade Logistics have been providing a very reputable delivery service for over 20 years. We employ a multicultural workforce and do not and will not tolerate any kind of racist abuse. More from NextShark: Asian Deliveryman Riding a Bicycle Stabbed By Another Cyclist in Brooklyn This person has been immediately dismissed from our company, and we will be assisting the police with their enquiries, Accolade Logistics added. Once again our sincerest of apologies. Update-the company have dismissed him. Ive had plenty messages people apologising for his behaviour, you dont need to apologise, theres always a bad Apple in a bunch. Thank you for all the messages it wasnt myself who was racially abused it was my mates uncle, appreciate it! pic.twitter.com/ljL697UVY6 Umar Khan (@UmarK99) October 1, 2022 Featured Image via @UmarK99 By Diane Bartz and David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The head of American Airlines Group denied Monday that his company's alliance with JetBlue Airways Corp meant that the two airlines had created a de facto merger in the northeastern United States. Chief Executive Robert Isom, testifying in an antitrust trial in Boston, pushed back against assertions that the companies acted as a single airline in Boston and the New York area following creation of their Northeast Alliance in 2020. The Justice Department has asked a judge to order it undone. Justice Department attorney Bill Jones said that in the four airports covered by the alliance, customers would view JetBlue and American as a single company. "No, that's not true," Isom said quickly. "We have our own gate. We have our own planes. We have our own services that make us distinct." Isom also testified that he had been concerned about competition from Delta and United, particularly in Boston and the New York area. And he took issue with suggestions that American, the world's largest airline, could have expanded without JetBlue. The Justice Department's Jones suggested American did not have to worry about JetBlue going after premium customers in Boston, which Isom disputed saying he said both airlines "are going to go after all premium customers." The U.S. Justice Department, six states and the District of Columbia have called the alliance a "de facto merger" of the companies' Boston and New York operations, in which they coordinate flights and pool revenue to the detriment of travelers, which it argues face $700 million in extra annual costs. Isom was pressed on a March 2020 email he sent recounting a conversation with former Delta Chief Executive Richard Anderson about the massive falloff in travel demand from the COVID-19 pandemic. Isom's email said there was agreement the "industry is going to have to shed a tremendous amount of capacity -- turning the dial back 5 years as a guide to what 2021 looks like." Story continues Congress awarded $54 billion to U.S. airlines in payroll assistance through September 2021 that prevented many significant cuts the industry had forecast. U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin, in Boston, will decide the case. (Reporting by Diane Bartz and David Shepardson; Editing by Bernadette Baum) A U.S. citizen vacationing in the Turks and Caicos was killed Sunday night in an explosion of gun violence that left three people dead and five others injured, including a member of the islands Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. The tourist, a man, has been identified but his next of kin has yet to be informed and police are refraining from releasing his name, said Denyse Renne, a police spokeswoman. The incident in the British Overseas Territory, which is still recovering from last months Hurricane Fiona, was perpetrated by reckless and dangerous armed criminals, the chains police chief, Trevor Botting, said. It started at around 6 p.m. Sunday in the Long Bay area of Providenciales, which is known for its high-priced luxury resort and white sandy beaches but lately has been rocked by a series of gun-related killings that have left families in mourning and islanders terrified to leave their homes. We know our communities are shocked and frightened by the levels of violence on the TCI in the last few months. The levels of violence would challenge a police force many times the size of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, Botting said. We remain strong and determined to do all they can to take the fight to the violent criminals and protect our communities. Botting said police believe that the latest attack, which played out in four different incidents through the evening, was targeted and carried out by armed gang members who act without conscience, who have no regard for life and who are hell-bent on causing indiscriminate harm and misery across the TCI. This violence is linked to drugs supply and is fueled by revenge, turf wars and retribution. According to Botting, the shooting spree began when armed criminals traveling in a vehicle indiscriminately shot into another vehicle transporting staff from a local business and two tourists who were headed back to their accommodations after an excursion. Story continues As a result of this attack, two persons were murdered, one from the local business and the other being a tourist from the United States, Botting said in a statement, offering the islands deepest condolences to the families of those killed. Another visitor to the island also was among the three persons injured during the spree. Botting said that when a police patrol car with the tactical unit attempted to intercept the vehicle used by the shooters in the first attack, the officers were shot at with automatic weapons but stood their ground and returned fire. Their bullets repeatedly struck the police vehicles windscreen and bonnet area multiple times. Bullets also deflated two tires of the vehicle driven by the officers, the chief said. Despite being under fire from automatic weapons, two of my officers returned fire to protect themselves and that of their colleagues. One officer received a serious injury from a gunshot wound. Botting called his officers response an astonishing display of courage under fire from high-powered weapons. The vehicle with the shooters got away. The police chief also said that a man later arrived at the hospital with a head injury. He was found at Smart Supermarket, and police believe he had been struck by shots fired by the criminals in their confrontation with police officers. Police are also investigating a report of a body of an unidentified man found in Dock Yard in Providenciales, Botting said. While subject to confirmation, we believe this to be one of the armed attackers who was shot by police officers during the attack on the police vehicle, he said. Botting said police are determined to tackle the problem head on, and that officers are not cowed by this violence or the violent criminals. In response to the ongoing spate of violence, he said, the chain is expecting to receive substantial support from across the Caribbean region and the United Kingdom in the form of armed officers and investigators to assist the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force to deal with the threats. By Alexander Villegas and Natalia A. Ramos Miranda SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Chile's sliding peso got a shot in the arm in July from a huge $25 billion central bank intervention, but in recent months has been one of the region's worst performers, showing how hard the battle is for policy makers countering a rampaging dollar. The Chilean currency is threatening to breach the 1,000 peso per dollar line once again after it hit a record low near 1,050 pesos in July. That milestone led the central bank to launch a plan to sell $20 billion in dollars and FX hedging instruments, backed up by a $5 billion currency swap and peso liquidity program. That move successfully helped cull wild volatility. However, as the U.S. dollar soars and interest rate hikes by the U.S. Federal Reserve hammer global currencies from the British sterling to the Japanese yen and Chinese yuan, the impact of Chile's intervention has faded. In the last two months the currency has weakened some 6.5% versus the dollar, trailing major regional currencies in Brazil, Mexico, Peru and Colombia. It is likely to weaken more after the central bank ended its intervention program on Sept. 30. (GRAPHIC: Latam currencies vs the dollar - https://graphics.reuters.com/CHILE-CURRENCY/klpykxdlbpg/chart.png) "Probably in the short term, maybe in October we'll see 1,000 pesos (to the dollar) and maybe we'll beat our historic low," said Angel Rubilar, a Santiago-based senior analyst at Libertex. The currency is now worth 968 per dollar. Chile is not alone in having to defend its currency. FX interventions have increased in India, the Philippines and Korea in recent weeks, while Japan's central bank spent a record 2.8 trillion yen ($19.7 billion) in the FX market last week. That intervention, following the yen's slump to a 24-year low of nearly 146 to the dollar, triggered a sharp bounce of more than 5 yen per dollar, although the currency has drifted down again to around 144.7. Story continues (GRAPHIC: Chilean peso - https://graphics.reuters.com/CHILE-CURRENCY/egvbkzawlpq/chart.png) 'RESERVES AREN'T INFINITE' Diego Mora, a market strategist for XTB Latam, said that Chile's central bank intervention had helped reduce the chances of aggressive currency moves, but had its limits. "The intervention was successful for what the central bank needed, which was controlling volatility in the exchange rate, but not the price," said Mora, noting that markets were already pricing in the end of the intervention next week. "The possibility of a sharp crash is lower." Chile, the world's top producer of copper and the No. 2 for electric vehicle battery metal lithium, is also grappling with annual inflation at some 14%, weakening copper prices and a predicted recession, compounding the hit from the strong dollar. Currency strategist Juan Prada at Barclays said the tightening of global financial conditions was ramping up pressure on some regional markets particularly susceptible to external global economic impacts. "We have identified Chile and Colombia as vulnerable, and COP (Colombian peso) and CLP (Chilean peso) have underperformed LatAm peers" since the U.S. Federal Open Market Committee meeting in September, he said. Chile's central bank, however, has given no indication that it would intervene again. Analysts and traders say that despite pressures, another intervention would be "hasty" and could risk longer-term stability by denting levels of reserves. "Reserves aren't infinite," Mora added. "If the central bank has less direct reserves of foreign currency, the country becomes riskier with its long-term interest rates." (Reporting by Alexander Villegas and Natalia Ramos; Additional reporting by Karin Strohecker in London; Editing by Adam Jourdan and Richard Chang) Many area parents who've been demanding certain books be removed from school libraries are getting their ammunition from the ironically named Woke PA, which operates a website devoted to reclaiming schools "from activists promoting harmful agendas." The site wokepa.com maintains a list of objectionable titles, identifies the local school districts that keep them in stock, and provides sometimes-lengthy excerpts from the books to help parents cite specific passages at board meetings without having to read the books. More:Is Woke PA behind the controversial Central Bucks library policy? Though the hit list skews heavily toward sexual content, sexual violence and LGBTQ topics, it also includes one odd outlier Mein Kampf, Adolf Hitler's 1925 anti-Semitic manifesto of hate that lays out his political ideology, white supremacist worldview and plans for a racially pure Germany. Why Mein Kampf? An email sent to press@wokepa.com seeking an explanation for why Woke PA included Mein Kampf on the list went unanswered. "We haven't had any complaints about Mein Kampf, certainly not in our region," said Robin Burstein, regional deputy director of the Anti-Defamation League. "And to the best of our knowledge, we're unaware of any complaints (in other regions)." Mein Kampf appears to have neither the support of those "activists promoting harmful agendas" nor a base of passionate opposition into which it can tap, like it has with, say, the graphic novel Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe. That leaves a few plausible explanations for why Woke PA included it. It's possible that someone at Woke PA simply has a strong objection to history's most vile figures. It's also possible that someone at Woke PA incorrectly gauged the public's appetite for a battle against Mein Kampf and thought it was a title that'd gain significant traction but hasn't. Or it's possible that its inclusion on the list is merely for appearances, that it's a savvy piece of misdirection designed to give cover to a group that's pushing a puritanical crusade against sexual and race-related content in schools. Story continues The new influencers:Unknowns before 2020, leaders in the reopen movement have the Bucks County GOP's attention Dig deeper:Opponents of Neshaminy, Native American mascots playing the long game Campaign money:Ehasz fundraising suggests 1st District is likely to stay red with Fitzpatrick When Woke PA calls out a book, it either reproduces one or more inflammatory excerpts, provides a brief synopsis, or publishes a fragment of one of its reviews. With all that has been written about Mein Kampf by historians, critics and literary figures over nearly a century, Woke PA pulled from an obscure book blog https://bookwritten.com/ a statement that ends on this note: "In the book, the most barbarian dictator in the history of mankind justified his actions with such molded words that would make you believe in each of them and compel you on thinking if his crimes were really justified." The sentence reads more like it came from a high school book report than a piece of high-minded literary criticism. It seems meant to suggest that the book can plant and water the seeds of antisemitism and violence in impressionable readers. That fits, given that Woke PA is nothing if not clear about its opposition to the indoctrination of young people. That said, Mein Kampf has also never landed on the American Library Association's annual top 10 list of banned and challenged books, dating at least as far back as 2001. What is the ADL on Mein Kampf That's not to say that Mein Kampf is being unfairly picked on. "If it is in public school libraries, that would not be O.K. with the Anti-Defamation League," said Burstein. Follett School Solutions LLC is the leading library management system for educational institutions serving students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. Its titles databases show that Mein Kampf is on the shelves at Bensalem, Central Bucks East, Central Bucks West, Council Rock South, New Hope-Solebury, Hatboro-Horsham and North Penn high schools. Pennridge High School also has three copies of the book, though the database reports that they're kept behind the Circulation Desk where they'd need to be specifically requested by a prospective borrower. North Penn High School, according to Follett's database, has an early translation by James Murphy that was originally published in 1939 before Germany invaded Poland, which historians generally consider to be the official start of World War II. But the database shows that the other high schools mostly offer a 1999 version published by a division of Houghton Mifflin, a leading provider of textbooks and other educational materials. It includes an introduction by Holocaust survivor Abraham H. Foxman, who served as National Director of the Anti-Defamation League from 1987 to 2015. "(R)emembering the Holocaust its causes, its progression, its aftermath allows us to understand the phenomenon of genocide better and attunes us to the dangers of racial and ethnic conflict," he writes, and later adds of Hitler, "We dismissed him as a madman and we ignored his wretched book; the result was a tragedy of unprecedented proportions." That added context and perspective encourages a careful exploration of the manifesto's contents; one that the ADL's Burstein says students should only undertake alongside a trained educator. "If a teacher brings it into a classroom during a session on the Holocaust and shares excerpts in a professional manner, that's fine," she said. "But it shouldn't be on a public school library's shelves for kids to take out. That's something the ADL would be very concerned about." Woke PA: An advocate for peace? It's tempting to suggest that Woke PA's desire to remove Mein Kampf is rooted in a benign even laudable desire to keep from awakening in readers the sort of genocidal hatred of those who are different that's resulted in mass shootings in our nation's schools, places of worship and other public locations. In recent years, there have been several mass shooters who've listed Mein Kampf among their favorite books or had copies in their homes. And Woke PA does also object to books that "in great detail, describe School Shootings" out of a concern that "it gives potential school shooters notes on how to do these horrible acts." But that rationale doesn't pass the smell test. Woke PA, for instance, doesn't target Chuck Palahniuk's Fight Club, in which the main character creates a violent, anti-establishment sect called "Project Mayhem" to sow destruction. The book includes specific instructions for making napalm and nitroglycerin, and converting the latter into a plastic explosive, although the recipes are generally off by at least one ingredient. The book is reportedly on the shelves of the Central Bucks West High School library. Meanwhile, author Bryan Bliss was shocked to find his book Thoughts & Prayers, on Woke PA's list. "To call Thoughts & Prayers a 'school shooting book' is to tell on yourself," said Bliss in a March 8 open letter to the Central Bucks School Board. Bliss has master's degrees in theology and fiction and has worked in Christian churches and organizations steadily since 2004, serving in a variety of roles, many of them centered around youth ministry and discipleship. He currently lives in Minnesota but posted the letter on his blog upon hearing Thoughts & Prayers was on Woke PA's list. "What could an organization or school system possibly find offensive about a book focused on healing in the midst of tragedy?" Bliss writes. Other titles that have drawn the ire of Woke PA include fictional works And We Stay, Cheltenham Township resident Jenny Hubbard's story of a 17-year-old girl coping with loss of her ex-boyfriend, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound; and This is Where It Ends: Everyone has a reason to fear the boy with the gun written by Marieke Nijkamp, a Dutch novelist who primarily writes for young adults and who happens to identify as "queer." "It's the guns," Bliss writes. "This fundamentally is the problem with groups like 'Woke Pennsylvania'...they refuse to see the real culprit of fear and anxiety that our gun cultures creates in all students. They cry out about political education while pushing a right wing agenda." Of organizations like Woke PA, whose leaders "choose not to state who we are out of fear of attacks on our children," Bliss says simply. "They are cowards." Since Woke PA isn't talking about its strange struggle against Mein Kampf or, for that matter, its targeting of a handful of books that deal with school shootings the public can only take an educated guess as to what is really motivating the group's campaign against the titles it has selected. This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Analysis: Woke PA sets sights on sex, sexuality and...Mein Kampf? Members of Direct Action Everywhere, including founding member Wayne Hsiung, standing in the front, are shown removing piglets from Circle Four Farms in Milford, Utah, in this submitted photograph taken in 2017. Hsiung and four others were charged with burglary and theft for their roles in what the group called a rescue of pigs that were kept under inhumane conditions. Five years after they allegedly snuck into a Utah pig farm and recorded video of themselves smuggling two piglets away from what they said were inhumane living conditions, two animal rights activists are set to face a jury trial in St. George this week despite protests about a mistake made during Mondays jury selection process. Wayne Hsiung and Paul Darwin Picklesimer, the two remaining defendants facing charges from the 2017 incident, could face more than 10 years in prison on charges of felony burglary and theft. They were part of a group of five people who reportedly recorded a series of disturbing videos at Circle Four Farms in Milford, Utah, where owner Smithfield Foods was operating one of the countrys largest pig farms. The other three people charged in the case struck plea deals earlier, but Hsiung and Picklesimer pursued their cases, saying they hoped they could raise awareness about animal cruelty at factory farms and potentially set new precedent if a jury determined that they were justified in taking the piglets because they feared for the animals lives. Defense bid for mistrial denied Jury selection in the trial was set to start Monday morning at the 5th District Courthouse in St. George, but there was controversy even before the trial could begin after defense lawyers protested they had not received information on prospective jurors and asked for a mistrial. Hsiung, who is representing himself, challenged the start on due process grounds, saying that while prosecutors had received the full names of prospective jurors, he had not. Hsiung said none of the juror questionnaires hed received included last names, making it impossible for him to conduct research and investigate potential sources of bias. I dont know how we can move forward with jury selection without the information we are constitutionally entitled to, he said in a social media post he published just before entering the courtroom. Judge Jeffrey C. Wilcox deliberated in private with Hsiung and the other attorneys for about two hours before emerging to say that the trial would resume, despite what he admitted was his mistake in not ensuring that both sides had equal information entering the trial. Story continues Mary Corporan, an attorney for Picklesimer, called for a mistrial, and Hsiung asked that he be given time to review the jurors listed and conduct research on them. State prosecutors disagreed, saying the defendants stated reason for wanting more time to conduct research on prospective jurors, including their social media accounts had never been part of jury selection before. Wilcox said he would move on with the case regardless, saying a delay would likely mean calling a new set of potential jurors and would punt the case to at least January. Attorneys on both sides had the opportunity to questions potential jurors as well, Wilcox noted. However, Wilcox said that if the defense later found issues of bias with jurors who were chosen, he could declare a mistrial. Jury selection continued for most of the rest of the day, with both sides asking to strike a number of prospective jurors out of a total juror pool of 137. The trial, should it move forward as scheduled, is slated to start on Tuesday. What is animal rights advocacy group DxE? Hsiung, a California-based lawyer, is a founding member of the Direct Action Everywhere, also known as DxE, an animal rights advocacy group that says it rescues animals kept in poor conditions and exposes the unethical treatment of animals behind the meat trade and other industries. Members, including Hsiung, have been prosecuted for various animal rescues in recent years, with backers using the internet and social media to promote videos and push for stricter laws regarding ethical animal treatment. In a virtual-reality video taken from Circle Four Farms and shared online by DxE, pigs are shown cooped up in small metal pens, with some clips showing sows gnawing on the bars in an effort to get out. One clip shows piglets climbing over each other to reach a sows teats, with several dead siblings lying on the ground near them. Hsiung narrates the video, saying he sees hundreds of sows kept in just one warehouse and that across the entirety of the farm there are 35,000 pigs kept in similar conditions. Representatives for Smithfield Foods have called the videos deceptive, with the Washington Post citing a Smithfield representative as saying the videos were evidence of trespassing onto company property, breaking into a barn, stealing animals and violating Smithfields strict biosecurity policy to prevent the spread of disease onto our farms. Smithfield Foods was the largest employer in Beaver County when it announced earlier this year massive cutbacks to its Milford operation, telling officials it planned to cut back its operations by two-thirds. Company releases stated that the move was not related to the DxE cases but instead a response to the closure of a meat processing plant in California. Arguing that it would be too difficult to find enough unbiased jurors in Beaver County, the defendants successfully had the trial moved more than 100 miles south to St. George, in Washington County, which has a much larger population. Both men could face more than 10 years of prison time if convicted, as the burglary charge was filed as a state felony. David DeMille writes about southwestern Utah for The Spectrum & Daily News, a USA TODAY Network newsroom based in St. George. Follow him at @SpectrumDeMille or contact him at ddemille@thespectrum.com. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today. This article originally appeared on St. George Spectrum & Daily News: DxE animal rights activists set for Utah trial over pig farm 'rescue' Nine defendants, including three U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employees, have been indicted in an alleged $1.3 million conspiracy of fraud and identity theft. Nathanael Foucault, Johnathan Persaud and Fabiola Mompoint, all USPS employees, were allegedly conspiring since December 2018 to steal credit cards from the mail and use them at different high-end stores in the New York City area before selling the merchandise on the internet to rake in millions, according to a release last week from the Department of Justice (DOJ). After intercepting the stolen credit cards in the mail stream, defendants allegedly intended to activate them using personally identifiable information stolen from the intended recipients. The DOJ said the scheme resulted in more than $1.3 million in intended losses and the theft of hundreds of identities. U.S. Postal Service (USPS) trucks sit at a post office facility in Elkridge, Maryland, on Aug. 16, 2020. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images Five people who were allegedly involved but not USPS employees remain at large, the DOJ said Thursday. THIEVES TARGET PENNSYLVANIA MAIL DROPBOX LOOKING FOR MONEY, CHECKS "As alleged, the defendants engaged in a years-long scheme to manipulate credit card companies and major retailers across New York and New Jersey by stealing credit cards and using those cards to purchase, and subsequently sell, luxury goods," said Damian Williams, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. "The defendants took advantage of the public trust we place in U.S. Postal Service employees for their own financial gain. Thanks to the diligence of USPIS, the NYPD, and USPS-OIG, the defendants will now be held accountable for their brazen criminal conduct," Williams added. USPS SUSPECTED ATTACKER IDENTIFIED, BUT CALIFORNIA NEIGHBORS WORRY HE'S NOT OFF STREETS FOR GOOD: REPORT USPIS Inspector-in-Charge Daniel B. Brubaker called the alleged crimes an "elaborate scheme to defraud several national financial institutions." "Make no mistake, the Postal Inspection Service will not allow thieves, no matter who they are, to use the U.S. Mail to harm postal customers or the financial institutions that serve them. We are pleased the members of this criminal syndicate have been apprehended, and their crime spree brought to an abrupt end," Brubaker added. If convicted, the federal charges against the defendants carry lengthy prison sentences. The Army is in the midst of a historic recruiting slump, but the active-duty soldiers who do get into the uniform want to stay. The service has surpassed more than 100% of its retention goals every year since 2017, including new numbers for 2022, according to internal data reviewed by Military.com, meaning more active-duty soldiers are sticking around than the service intended. "Some soldiers really love it for themselves. Some people love it for their families," Sgt. Maj. Tobey Whitney, the Army's senior career counselor, told Military.com in an interview. "There's so many factors that come into play on why a soldier stays, but we're definitely seeing that. For soldiers who actually decide to join the Army, the vast majority of them stay." Read Next: From Yale to Jail: Oath Keepers Founder Stewart Rhodes' Path Army planners aim to keep tens of thousands of soldiers from leaving when their contracts are set to expire each year. That number ranges, but typically stays between 50,000 and 60,000. This year, the service convinced 58,000 soldiers to extend their service time, meeting 104% of its retention goal. The Army offers a handful of major incentives to keep soldiers on board, the main one being retention bonuses. About 45% of soldiers who extend their contracts get those bonuses, the average of which was $14,000 this year. In rare cases, those bonuses can be up to $81,000, but that money is usually reserved for highly technical jobs covering only a relatively small number of soldiers. Troops coming up on the end of their contract sometimes also have room to negotiate their duty station or job. "Some people want to just stay where they're at," Whitney said. "We offer them the opportunity to stabilize there for up to 30 months. So now, for the next 30 months, if you reenlist, you will be guaranteed to stay at your duty station, so that you can stabilize your family or if you're going to school, whatever the situation may be. And this is the largest incentive that we see people taking is a different duty station or a different [job]." Story continues The top reason soldiers want to continue their Army career is retirement pay, which soldiers typically can earn after 20 years of service, according to a 2021 service study. Generally, a soldier is most likely to leave after their first contract, which is usually four years and when a soldier is typically on the cusp of being promoted into a leadership role as a non-commissioned officer. After that, a soldier becomes less and less likely to leave the service as they get closer to that 20-year mark. Soldiers are also often motivated to continue their career for benefits, such as health care. Some troops leave simply because Army life wasn't for them or they had a poor experience, but one major concern among service leadership is the competition with the civilian workforce, especially for soldiers in technical jobs. The Army has often invested heavily in training those troops, but the skill sets they've developed are highly desirable to outside employers. But even in jobs, such as combat arms, for which the training pipeline and barrier to entry is less complicated, job opportunities can still lure soldiers. "There are a lot of other government agencies that are really targeting those folks to go work in law enforcement, fire departments or the FBI, for example," Whitney said. "We're competing against other governmental agencies, because we have the people that have the talent and the skills and they have a proven record of being able to perform at a high level, and so those people are very sought after." The biggest reason soldiers leave, according to the 2021 study, is the effect service has on their families and their lack of predictability in Army life. Service leaders have made some adjustments, such as a quality-of-life improvements for families, including extended leave in the wake of miscarriages and new rules that aim to make pumping breast milk easier while on duty. Yet the service continues to struggle with issues such as rampant mold infestations in its barracks and family housing. The Army is also coming off two decades of the post-9/11 wars, and while deployments are less frequent, units are still constantly rotating into Europe, Africa and the Pacific, in addition to long-term training exercises at home such as at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California. With what is effectively a peacetime Army, it is unclear how that will impact retention. Combat deployments are sometimes seen as a way to build camaraderie in units. Some recruits, especially in combat arms roles, join specifically for the chance to fight. On the flip side, combat deployments cause a lot of stress on families and can quickly burn some soldiers out. "It probably averages out," Whitney said about whether a lack of a war makes retention easier or more difficult. While the Army has been successful with retention, the active component of the Army is expected to be short as many as 15,000 new recruits this year due to a mixture of issues, such as the majority of young Americans being too overweight to serve or unable to pass the service's academic entrance exam. High retention paired with trouble recruiting for years at a time could create a top-heavy Army, with too many soldiers in leadership roles and not enough new privates to fill in the ranks, although service leaders have yet to sound the alarm about such a possibility. While the active-duty component is having no issue retaining its troops, the National Guard is bleeding out soldiers on multiple fronts -- with soldiers swiftly heading for the exit while an additional 40,000 are set to be discharged for refusing to be inoculated against COVID-19. The Guard could see itself short tens of thousands of soldiers by 2025. This year, the Guard will miss its retention goal by about 4,800 soldiers, or about 14%. That grim number might be one of the first signs that the extensive use of the Guard during the pandemic, with units on near constant domestic missions running from protecting the Capitol after the insurrection to missions far outside its typical Rolodex, including substitute teaching and bus driving, is taking a toll. -- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon. Related: The National Guard Is Having a Nightmarish Time Keeping Soldiers and Recruiting New Ones (Pixabay) An artificial intelligence known as Dragonfly has been used by resaerchres to design more efficient batteries. Scientists at Carnegie Mellon have used the tool to design better electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries, which would allow the batteries to charge faster. An electrolyte moves ions atoms that have been charged by either gaining or losing an electron between the two electrodes in a battery. Lithium ions are created at the negative electrode, the anode, and flow to the cathode where they gain electrons. When a battery charges, the ions move back to the anode. Battery innovations can take years to come to fruition because there are so many different chemicals involved in their production. Working out the ratio of chemicals and optimising them for peak use can be an arduous task. However, when the research team used an automated arrangement of pumps, valves, vessels, and other lab equipment to mix together three potential solvents and one salt, and then fed those results through Dragonfly, they found that the AI delivered six solutions that out-performed an existing electrolyte solution. This gave the test cell a 13 per cent improvement over what is currently commercially available. Electrolyte ingredients can be mix[ed] and match[ed] in billions of ways, Venkat Viswanathan, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon, told Technology Review, but the Dragonfly artificial intelligence can make the work more efficient without much bias as the system is not equipped with knowledge about chemistry. It is hoped that Dragonfly can be improved so that it can run experiments with multiple goals, rather than a single one. Researchers also believe that quantum batteries, which use a quantum mechanical system known as the micromaser to store energy charged through a stream of qubits, while simultaneously protecting against the risk of overcharging, could make batteries charge instantly. The South Korean researchers have already calculated that quantum battery technology could reduce the home charging times of electric cars from 10 hours to just three minutes, while supercharger stations could fully recharge a vehicle in just 90 seconds. In a study published earlier this year, the scientists noted how a quantum batterys charging time actually decreases as the batterys size gets bigger. What weve all known for years is finally (sorta) official: Atlanta is the best place to live in the United States. Money Magazines annual list of the Best Places to Live in the U.S. has ranked the Peach States capital city at the top of the list. The online magazine highlights the citys booming jobs market and eye on equality. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] With Atlantas increased reputation as the Hollywood of the South joining Atlantas dominance in hip hop and R&B music, Money is describing the city as a cultural behemoth. The listing also features some of our Atlanta-unique favorites, like the largest puppetry museum in the country and the only trap music museum in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Atlanta has consistently seen higher job growth that the rest of the country. TRENDING STORIES: The city isnt just a great place for those in the workforce, its top tier for students as well with nationally known colleges like Georgia Tech and several HBCUs, including Spelman and Morehouse. Atlanta isnt the only Georgia city to crack the top 50. Money ranked Marietta the 35th best city in the U.S. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: The U.S. military is holding firm on maintaining a presence in the Indo-Pacific region in spite of threats by China and the nations rising tensions with Taiwan. Addressing the regional turbulence, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told CNN on Sept. 30 that he still believes no invasion is imminent. Just a day after his discussion, the Marine Corps kicked off two massive training exercises with regional allies. What we do see is China moving to establish what we would call a new normal, he said. Increased activity. We saw a number of center line crossings of the Taiwan Strait by their aircraft. That number has increased over time. Weve seen more activity with their surface vessels and waters in and around Taiwan. In a regional show of force, more than 5,500 personnel will be participating in Resolute Dragon 22, which will run between Oct. 1 and Oct. 14 in Hokkaido, Japan, and KAMANDAG 6, which will conclude on the same day and feature members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marines in Luzon, Batanes, and Palawan, Philippines. The Okinawa-based headquarters command for the 3rd Marine Division will be overseeing U.S. forces involved in both exercises, with troops focusing on increasing combined capabilities for amphibious operations, special operations, maritime security, coastal defense, combined arms, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, according to a press release. Resolute Dragon and KAMANDAG are important opportunities to bolster the defensive capabilities of our alliances with Japan and the Philippines through realistic combined training, said Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron, commanding general for the 3rd Marine Division. These exercises will allow our forces to strengthen interoperability and readiness to ensure we are prepared to rapidly respond to crisis throughout the Indo-Pacific. In total, the two exercises will see U.S. troops training alongside 1,400 members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, approximately 530 Philippine Marines and about 100 troops from the Philippine Navy and Air Force. Story continues Today, as the security environment surrounding Japan becomes more turbulent, there is a need to further strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, Gen. Yuichi Togashi, the JGSDF 2nd Division commanding general, said in a release. For this reason, we recognize that Resolute Dragon, the largest field training exercise with the U.S. Marine Corps in Japan, is extremely important in terms of further strengthening the cooperation between the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Marine Corps. Resolute Dragon and KAMANDAG 6 both come on the heels of Orient Shield 22, a joint exercise between soldiers with U.S. Army Pacific and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. With current tensions in mind, U.S. Army Pacific Commander Gen. Charles Flynn made the decision to leave an equipment cache behind at Camp Amami, Japan, following the conclusion of Orient Shield 22. Ordnance currently in place at Camp Amami includes two High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS. What you are seeing in Europe is a protracted fight, so therefore sustainment is an incredibly important wartime function, Flynn told Reuters of his decision. It would be in everyones interest to look at their stocks and locations. Austin also discussed President Joe Bidens recent remarks regarding U.S. commitment to Taiwanese independence. In an interview with 60 Minutes in Sept., Biden promised that U.S. troops would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. So, unlike Ukraine, to be clear, sir, U.S. forces, U.S. men and women would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion? 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley said to Biden. Yes, the president responded. While the presidents stance has been clear and consistent, U.S. policy toward China remains unchanged, Austin told CNN. Furthermore, the U.S. is working hard to re-open channels of communication with the Chinese military, a line China cut off in August following a visit to Taiwan by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Aust also confirmed he has communicated both by phone and in person with his Chinese counterpart, Defense Minister Wei Fenghe. Well do everything we can to continue to signal that we want those channels open and I would hope that China will begin to lean forward a bit more and work with us, Austin said. Fulbright US - ASEAN visiting scholar program 2023 announced The US Mission in Vietnam is calling for nominations of outstanding candidates to participate in the AY 2023-2024 Fulbright US - ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program. The Fulbright US - ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program is open to university faculty, foreign ministry or other government officials, and professional staff of the private sector, think tanks, and other NGOs in the ASEAN Member States. Selected Fulbright US - ASEAN Visiting Scholars will travel to the United States for three to four months during the first half of 2024, where they will carry out scholarly and professional research on priority issues related to ASEAN and the US - ASEAN relationship. Details on the eligibility requirements, expenses covered and application process can be found at the website at https://vn.usembassy.gov/education-culture/fulbright-program-vietnam/us-asean-fulbright-visiting-scholar/ or contact Ms. Hoang Phuong, Program Assistant at phone (024) 3850-5067 or email hoangpvl@state.gov. Deadline 5:00 p.m., December 5, 2022 (Vietnam time). Photo: Metro Vancouver A regional park in British Columbia's Lower Mainland has been closed since Saturday as crews battle a wildfire sparked in persistently hot and dry conditions. The Metro Vancouver Regional District posted an update on social media, saying firefighting crews were working in "extremely steep and challenging terrain" to suppress the fire in Minnekhada Regional Park in Coquitlam, B.C. A Twitter account for the district's emergency services division had posted on Saturday afternoon saying the fire was "under control and not spreading," but on Sunday the BC Wildfire Service's website lists the blaze as out-of-control. Videos posted online by the district show a helicopter dumping water on the fire. The provincial wildfire service says human activity is the suspected cause of the fire. It lists 174 wildfires burning in B.C., with seven sparked in the last two days. The Australian company Atlassian is leaving the Russian and Belarusian markets Atlassian said that since March they have been taking measures against the Russian government and organizations that support the full-scale invasion. However, these measures were not directed against small businesses "caught up in a war they neither chose to participate in nor have the ability to stop, the company said. Read also: Big Four oil firm Halliburton leaves Russian market Due to the ongoing actions of the Russian Government against the Ukrainian people and the compulsion of business to support this illegal invasion, we have concluded we can no longer operate in Russia at all, the company said. As a result, we will be winding down our Russian and Belarusian business completely from Oct. 31, 2022. That will be over eight months since the start of Russias full-scale invasion and war on Ukraine, on Feb. 24. Read also: Maker of Durex and Contex condom brands plan exit from Russian market The company added that Atlassian stands with Ukraine and will do its "utmost to support its sovereignty and freedom." Atlassian is an Australian software development company. Among its most popular services are Trello and Jira. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Ceefax, launched by the BBC in 1974, is being recreated at the National Museum of Computing A new exhibition looking at the evolution of technology at the BBC has opened to mark the corporation's 100th anniversary. "BBC through the decades" is at the National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park, near Milton Keynes. It showcases the analogue and digital technology used by the BBC since its inception and the innovations it contributed towards. Museum director Jacqui Garrad said it was an "epochal British institution". The museum has technology used to both transmit and receive BBC programmes The exhibition looks at how the BBC began broadcasting, the first television broadcast in 1932 and the move to colour in 1967. It also features the launch of the BBC website in 1997 and the digital switchover that began in 2007. The museum also recognises the contribution to computing and technology made by the BBC, with innovations such as Ceefax, BBC Micro and the BBC Domesday Project. Visitors can also be hands-on with exhibitions, including playing retro games on a 1980s BBC computer. The BBC and computing The BBC Micro has an accompanying 1982 television series, The Computer Programme Ceefax started in 1974, it was the first teletext facility in the world and the start of interactive television services During the 1980s the BBC ran the Computer Literacy Project and produced a series of home computers known as BBC Micros In 1986 the BBC launched the Domesday Project, where the public were asked to help compile a digital snapshot of where they lived, to mark the 900th anniversary of the Domesday Book Ms Garrad said: "The BBC is an iconic British institution, with global reach, respect and recognition. "We are very excited to showcase this history." The exhibition was launched at the weekend by former BBC technology correspondent Rory Cellan-Jones, who said the BBC was "a key part of my family history". Rory Cellan-Jones worked at the BBC for 40 years and reported on many technological innovations He said: "I worked there for 40 years, and before me my mother joined the corporation in wartime Bristol and left TV Centre in London in 1974. "By the time I was made technology correspondent, the BBC's R&D teams had already pioneered everything from mobile recording, as used on D-Day, to an online news service. Story continues "Then as I reported the rise of the smartphone and AI, I watched the BBC adapt to this new era." Moves to television and online service are in the exhibition He said the exhibition "honours the remarkable technological evolution at the BBC across its 100-year history". The exhibition is at the museum until 20 November. Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk President Biden on Monday will visit Puerto Rico and announce more than $60 million in funding to help the island guard against future storms after it was pummeled last month by Hurricane Fiona. Biden and the first lady will travel to Ponce, Puerto Rico, to meet with families and community leaders affected by the storm, a White House official said. The Bidens will help pack bags with foods and other essential items while there, the official said. Biden is scheduled to receive a briefing on recovery efforts on the island and deliver remarks before returning to Washington, D.C. As part of his remarks, Biden will outline more than $60 million in funding through the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law signed last year that will be used to improve levees on the island, strengthen flood walls and create a new flood warning system, the White House official said. Hurricane Fiona slammed Puerto Rico in mid-September, hitting the island with flooding and damaging winds almost five years to the day after Hurricane Maria ravaged the islands power grid and infrastructure. Biden signed an emergency declaration to help cover the costs of rebuilding, and more than 1,000 federal workers were on the ground in Puerto Rico last week to help with recovery efforts and restoration of power. The president has sought to emphasize his administrations commitment to helping Puerto Rico rebuild, even as much of the focus has been on the damage to Florida from Hurricane Ian in recent days. In addition to what were doing for Florida and South Carolina, we remain focused on recovery efforts in Puerto Rico as well, Biden said last week. And were going to stay with and stay at it as long it takes. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden assured residents of storm-ravaged Puerto Rico that the island would receive every single dollar in promised federal aid as he surveyed the damage from Hurricane Fiona. Most Read from Bloomberg The people of Puerto Rico keep getting back up with resilience and determination, Biden said Monday as he toured storm damage in Ponce, one of the hardest-hit areas of the island. And you deserve every bit of help your country can give you. Were gonna make sure you get every single dollar promised, he added. Hurricane Fiona caused catastrophic flooding and knocked out power across the island as it made landfall in September. The president and First Lady Jill Biden are meeting Monday with local leaders and families affected by the storm and getting first-hand briefings about ongoing recovery efforts. We came here in person to show that were with you, Biden said. All of America is with you. Biden announced more than $60 million in funding to strengthen the islands resilience to flooding. The funding, which comes from an infrastructure law Biden signed last year, will go toward bolstering levees, reinforcing flood walls and establishing a flood warning system, according to a White House official. Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi said he asked Biden to amend a major disaster declaration to provide an additional period of 180 days of 100% funding for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and direct federal assistance. Pierluisi said he also asked that monies for reconstruction of roads and bridges be treated as critical infrastructure funding and that he and Biden spoke of the need to prioritize US Army Corps flood mitigation projects to protect against future storms. Story continues We want to be treated in the same way as our fellow Americans in the states in times of need, Pierluisi said. We are confident that the president will heed our call for equal treatment. Im confident were going to be able to do all you want, governor, Biden said. Power has now been restored to an estimated 93% of customers as of Monday, according to Luma Energy, a private company managing the islands power grid since last year. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell told reporters Monday that 95% of water had been restored, though she said some of that was via temporary fixes. Recovery Cost The cost to help Puerto Rico recover from Hurricane Fiona is going to be in the billions, Criswell told reporters aboard Air Force One en route to the island, adding that the money would come from multiple federal funding streams. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stressed Monday that the $60 million in funding comes on top of $2 billion that has already been allocated for the island through Bidens signature infrastructure law. Bidens trip to Puerto Rico is the first of two planned visits to storm-ravaged regions this week. On Wednesday, he will also travel to Florida, which was hit last week by Hurricane Ian. Biden has vowed to commit the full strength of the federal government to recovery efforts in Puerto Rico and the US mainland in response to the two hurricanes. Biden on Saturday said the destruction from Ian was likely to rank among the worst in the nations history. Damage estimates have ranged from $68 billion to $100 billion. On the Ground On Monday, Roberto Delgado, 32, was unloading a new mattress and couch after Fionas floodwaters swamped the home he shares with his mother in the community of San Jose, Toa Baja, on Puerto Ricos northern coast. Billions were pledged by the federal government after Hurricane Maria ravaged the island in 2017, but Delgado said very little of it has been seen in his flood-plagued community. I would tell Biden that the island needs help, but he also needs to make sure that the help gets to the people who need it, he said. We hear about all this money floating around but we never see it. And I know were not the only ones in this situation. Puerto Rico has never fully recovered from Maria, which caused more than $90 billion in damage and decimated the power grid, leaving some areas without electricity for almost a year. The prolonged outages and lack of other essential services ultimately contributed to the death of almost 3,000 people, according to a George Washington University report commissioned by the Puerto Rican government. Five years after Maria, the recovery process is moving at a glacial pace. Of the $9.5 billion in federal funds earmarked to overhaul the electrical grid, only about $40 million has been disbursed, according to FEMA Associate Administrator Anne Bink. Of the $21 billion that FEMA has designated for public assistance projects overall in Puerto Rico in the wake of Maria, only 2% has been spent, said Chris Currie, a director in the Government Accountability Offices Homeland Security and Justice Team. EARLIER: Hurricane Fiona Exposes Puerto Ricos Fragile Power Grid Biden is the seventh US president to make an official visit to the US commonwealth -- although others have come in an unofficial capacity. When Bidens predecessor, Donald Trump, traveled to the island after Hurricane Maria, any goodwill he generated by showing up quickly evaporated as he playfully tossed paper towels at hurricane victims and then later questioned the extent of the damage and death toll. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. The U.S. will take further action against perpetrators of violence against peaceful protesters in Iran, President Joe Biden said on Monday. I remain gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protesters in Iran, including students and women, who are demanding their equal rights and basic human dignity, Biden said in a statement issued by the White House. It was not immediately clear from the statement what further actions the U.S. might take against the Iranian government. The U.S. has already worked to facilitate greater Internet access, and is holding accountable Iranian entities that use violence, Biden wrote. The United States stands with Iranian women and all the citizens of Iran who are inspiring the world with their bravery, he added. The U.S. has watched with concern as the Iranian government has violently punished protesters and limited Internet access. Demonstrators have a number of social, economic and political grievances against the government, catalyzed by the death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died in the custody of Irans Morality Police. The White House has previously characterized Aminis death as an egregious affront to human rights. The legislative branch may be in recess, but the executive and judicial branches are in full focus this week in Washington D.C. Here are three things to watch this week on the political front. President Biden surveys hurricane damage President Biden is heading to Puerto Rico and Florida this week to tour the damage from Hurricane Ian. The storm has left at least 88 people dead and left more than one million Americans without power. Governor of Puerto Rico Pedro Pierluisi gives a briefing on Hurricane Fiona to U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, at Port of Ponce, Puerto Rico, October 3, 2022. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein Biden has promised at least $60 million in disaster relief funding, and the visit provides an opportunity to coordinate federal, state, and local responses to the storm's destruction. Biden and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have spoken several times in recent days in order to coordinate their efforts, according to reports. Biden told reporters that he was open to meeting in person with DeSantis, who is thought to be planning a 2024 presidential run on the GOP ticket. SCOTUS returns The Supreme Court of the United States returned from its summer break on Monday after a controversial previous term that ended in June. Chief Justice John Roberts will oversee an upcoming schedule that puts Americans' voting rights, climate regulations, and other issues on the docket, Politico reported. Supreme Court Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson stands outside the Supreme Court, at the top of the steps, with Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts, following her formal investiture ceremony at the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) The court has faced intense political scrutiny in recent months, particularly following the court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade earlier this year. That decision became one of the top issues that Democrats brought to the campaign trail in state and congressional races. U.S.-Taiwan relations Last week, President Biden ushered in a new era of strategic cooperation with 14 Pacific island nations by signing the Declaration on U.S.-Pacific Partnership, an agreement that aims to bolster economic and technological ties between the U.S. and the Indo-Pacific islands while also countering China's influence. Concerns about China's power in the region have grown, particularly after Chinese Secretary General Xi Jinping ordered military exercises around Taiwan. Story continues President Joe Biden speaks during a meeting of the White House Competition Council in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, Monday, Sept. 26, 2022, as Sec. of Defense Lloyd Austin looks on. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) Last month, Biden said on CBS News that the U.S. would defend Taiwan should Xi invade the democratic island. On Sunday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stopped short of endorsing Biden's view in an interview with CNN but reiterated the U.S.'s support for Taiwan. In accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act, were committed to helping Taiwan develop the capability to defend itself," Austin told CNN. "And that work has gone on over time and will continue into the future." Kevin Cirilli is a visiting media at the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub and the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue. Follow him on LinkedIn here. Click here for politics news related to business and money Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Download the Yahoo Finance app for Apple or Android Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, and YouTube An alleged serial killer accused of smothering nearly two dozen elderly women in Texas is going on trial for one of the murders this week. Billy Chemirmir, 49, is facing a capital murder trial over the killing of 87-year-old Mary Brooks, who was found dead in her Dallas condo in 2018. Authorities initially believed Brooks had died of natural causes, even though family raised alarm bells that many of her favourite pieces of jewelry was missing. Her shopping bags were left on the counter, and a coral necklace and several diamond rings were gone, according to prosecutors. It was only weeks later when Chemirmir was arrested for a separate attack that police began to suspect his involvement. In that case, Mary Annis Bartel, 91, told police that a man had forced his way into her apartment at Parkview Elderly Assisted Living facility in Frisco, attempted to smother her with a pillow and stole her jewelry, the Associated Press reported. Ms Bartel, who died in 2020, described in a taped police interview that Chemirmir had appeared suddenly as she opened her front door a man wearing green rubber gloves before forcing her to the ground and holding a pillow over her face. Chemirmir was arrested the next day in the parking lot of his apartment with jewelry and cash. Documents found in a box the murder suspect was attempting to dispose of led police to the home of 81-year-old Lu Thi Harris, who was found dead in her bedroom, lipstick smeared on her pillow, the Associated Press reported. As more unexplained deaths came to light, authorities in Texas said they were planning to review hundreds of deaths previously thought to have been due to natural causes. Billy Chemirmir in a mugshot after his arrest in 2018 for the murder of Lu Thi Harris. (Dallas County Jail) Billy Chemirmir will go on trial in Texas this week for the murder of Mary Brooks (Shafkat Anowar / The Dallas Morning News) They eventually charged him with 22 murders, including four new indictments this summer, in addition to several counts of attempted murer. Chemirmir, who has maintained his innocence, was found guilty of Harriss murder at a retrial in April and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole after prosecutors declined to seek the death penalty. Story continues The jury in a previous trial in November had been unable to reach a verdict. This week, relatives of Mary Brooks said they were planning to be in court to face Chemirmir. Daughter Loren Adair Smith told the AP the trial would bring a huge bag of mixed feelings. At the same time of having that dread feeling, we are really glad to go back and bring this chapter to a close, Ms Smith told the outlet. In affidavits, police have said that surveillance footage placed Chemirmir at a Walmart store at the same time that Mary Brooks had been shopping there, a day before her body was found. Chemirmir is believed to be North Texass worst serial killer, and one of the worst the century in the US, Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot said during his closing address in the first trial. Mr Creuzot told the Dallas Morning News in an interview that he had not sought the death penalty due to the cost of appeals and length of time it takes for an execution to be carried out. Chemirmir still faces nine capital murder cases in neighbouring Collin County. Most of Chemirmirs alleged victims lived in assisted living facilities, Chemirmir told police during interviews that he had worked as a caregiver and security guard, and made money buying and selling jewelry. Per the AP, he had worked as a nurse in his native country of Kenya, but appears to not have been legally working in healthcare in the US. Haiti is also still reeling from colliding crises including the impact of two significant earthquakes in the last decade, political corruption, high crimes and the 2021 assassination of its president Jovenel Moise. Black advocates are applauding a recent resolution introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that acknowledges both the history of Haiti as the first free Black nation in the Americas, and the historical harm caused by France after Haiti successfully gained its independence in the early 1800s. The resolution, introduced on Sept. 22 by U.S. Reps. Ritchie Torres and Yvette Clarke, draws a direct correlation between Haitis current economic and social challenges and the independence debt that it was forced to pay France after winning the Haiti revolution war. The House resolution also notes that on top of paying France for its independence to avoid further war and begin trading with other countries despite successfully fighting off French troops in a years-long slave revolt Haiti was compelled to take out loans from French banks to make their payments, which the resolution describes as a double debt. American Capital Building in Washington, D.C., at Dusk. (Adobe Stock) The social and economic consequences of decades of colonial brutality still significantly affect the country today, said Congressman Torres in a statement. Intentional recognition by the U.S. and France is crucial to move forward from the painful legacy left behind by slavery and colonialism. Congresswoman Clarke in a statement said: Haitis double debt is nothing more than an unjust and callous colonial stain that has impacted Haitian civil society from its inception to present days. And it is long past time every American understands that indisputable fact. Guerline Jozef, founder of Haitian Bridge Alliance, said she was surprised that a resolution acknowledging Haitis independence and colonial history hadnt happened sooner in Congress. Its been over 200 years and nothing has been done, she told theGrio. The fact that its taken so long for a member of Congress or anyone in the American government to acknowledge that is incredible. Story continues Haiti, which has been embroiled in poverty for decades, is still reeling from colliding crises including the impact of two significant earthquakes in the last decade, political corruption, high crimes and the 2021 assassination of its president Jovenel Moise. While Haiti has often been called the poorest nation in the world, Joseph Tolton, founder and president of the Pan African advocacy group Interconnected Justice, said doing so is factually incorrect and morally reprehensible. Instead, he argued, Haiti has been the most impoverished by external actors those actors being France and the United States. Tolton cited a recent report by the New York Times about the U.S. invasion of Haiti and the role of the American bank, Citigroup, in extracting wealth from the country. Activists with Black Alliance For Peace hold a rally against U.S. intervention in Haiti in the wake of the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, outside of the U.S. State Department on July 15, 2021 in Washington, DC. The group argues that foreign aid and involvement will hinder the Haitian peoples right for self-determination and popular democracy. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) Both Tolton and Jozef believe that whats missing from the recent House resolution is an acknowledgment that the United States meddled in Haiti after it successfully fought for its independence. For years, advocates have called for accountability. The United States refused to recognize Haiti as a new free country, said Jozef, who noted that because the U.S. actively engaged in the enslavement of Africans at the time, they saw Haiti as a threat to a system that was rooted in racism, white supremacy and slavery. She added, It is time for the United States to acknowledge their part in the impoverishment of Haiti. Still, Tolton credited Torres and Clarke for their leadership on the Haiti resolution, particularly at a time when immigration has reemerged in the national consciousness after the recent busing of migrants to Democratically-controlled cities by Republican Govs. Ron DeSantis of Florida and Greg Abbott of Texas. I think its really brought immigration back to the front pages they were smart to deliver this resolution because theres a win that they know that they have in terms of why this would be more readily welcomed and received at this very particular moment in time, Tolton explained. He said the resolution could have gone further by calling for the U.S. to increase its economic ties with Haiti including making the Haitian Hemisphere Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) Act more vital and tying in an education or funding program in partnership with a Historically Black College or University as it relates to ensuring the history of Haiti is taught in American classrooms. The House resolution on Haiti also briefly called on the need for the U.S. government and the Biden-Harris administration to promote smart and just immigration policy for Haitian immigrants presently in the United States, their families, and individuals seeking to immigrate to the United States in the future. Jozef said the call to action was necessary, as she and other advocacy groups have for years challenged the U.S. federal government for its treatment of Haitian and African migrants. I think it is necessary to look into how the United States continues to abuse, deport and expel Haitian migrants, but at the same time, welcome refugees and asylum seekers from Ukraine, said Jozef. Weve just received 26,000 Ukrainians in less than two months, yet we have deported 26,000 Haitians under President Biden. The way we have received Ukrainian people, who are white, with respect and dignity and compassion should not be an exception to the rule but should be the model by which will welcome all people, she continued. Tolton said he ultimately hopes that Reps. Torres and Clarkes resolution will raise awareness for Haitis history of independence for African Americans. He argued that many remain uneducated about how many freedom movements achieved by Black Americans from the abolitionist, civil rights, pan-African and Black Lives Matter movements are a testament to Haiti. We are uneducated about the ways in which the Haitian Revolution was really the beginning of and planted the seeds, he said. I think that that would power and fuel a real African-American-led advocacy effort to push the U.S. government around our policy toward Haiti to push France also in terms of a real campaign around restitution. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Black advocates salute House resolution recognizing Haiti as first free Black nation, but demand US accountability appeared first on TheGrio. This Black woman entrepreneur is making a name for herself in the food industry and gets to do so while paying homage to her father. Genesis Bencivenga Sr. shared the news on TikTok that Walgreens picked up her company, Lorenzos Frozen Pudding, for its shelves. Lil girl from the projects on the Southside of Chicago got her Southern-Style Frozen Pudding in Walgreens, the CEO and co-founder wrote in the caption. With the big win, Bencivenga made it clear that the company is far from an overnight success. Back in 2011, she and her father, Lorenzo, launched Lorenzos Frozen Pudding as a way to garner a new stream of income for their family, according to Walgreens Newsroom. The hustle of selling their different flavors out of their car on the streets of their city led the brand to become a hit. After initially making the pudding in their kitchen, they went on to a shared kitchen to adjust to selling in local Chicago retailers in 2013. Business was booming, but the duo didnt have the means to meet their rising demand and had to step back. Then, in 2015, Bencivenga attempted to try again but her father retired. We werent selling on the street anymore because we were in about 50 stores between 2015 to 2017, she said, according to Walgreens Newsroom. We were handing out samples and doing demos and it caught fire just like it did before. But we couldnt keep up with demand again. I knew we had a great product people wanted to buy, but we didnt have the back-end infrastructure for manufacturing and distribution that we needed, so I had to shut it down again. When she learned from her past mistakes, Bencivenga was ready to start fresh with Lorenzos Frozen Pudding. A part of her game plan was to seek help from the Womens Business Development Center (WBDC) a Chicago-based organization that works to accelerate business development and growth, especially for women and minority-owned businesses. Its Top Shelf: High Volume Growth Insights program was the gateway to Bencivengas business revival. In addition to corporate sponsors, the free eight-week curriculum-based program offers training and access to retail category managers and buyers. Story continues With the support of Top Shelf, Lorenzos Frozen Pudding ultimately landed distribution at Walgreens. Top Shelf has great impact on emerging businesses and the communities we both serve, and we want it to be a win-win for everyone, Tony Billinger, Walgreens director of supplier diversity and the companys point person with WBDC and Top Shelf said. New products will eventually develop new markets for us, while these businesses get access to Walgreens distribution and the possibility of national exposure. Despite numerous setbacks, Bencivenga is a prime example of what it looks like to never quit chasing your dreams. Ive had people ask me, Why didnt you give up? I mean, how can I? I feel like its a life-or-death situation. I love what I do, I know I can do it well and I know that with persistence it will happen. She added: Thank you so much, Walgreens. I cant wait to see how far we go! US Secretary of State Antony Blinken began his tour of Latin American countries on Monday in Colombia, where combatting drug trafficking topped the agenda. Blinken met with Gustavo Petro, Colombia's first ever leftist president, who has harshly criticized the war on drugs as a failure. After Colombia, Blinken will travel to Chile and Peru, which also recently elected leftist presidents. But in Colombia, Petro's policy of offering an olive-branch to leftist guerrillas and drug-traffickers -- as long as they lay down their weapons and cease illegal activities -- is in stark contrast to his conservative predecessor Ivan Duque, who enjoyed good relations with the United States. Blinken made clear Monday that "extensive common ground" remains even under the new president's position. Colombia, which suffered decades of civil war fueled in part by drug trafficking, is the world's leading cocaine producer, with the United States as is its principal market. "We strongly support the holistic approach the Petro administration is taking," Blinken said during a joint press conference with the Colombian president after their meeting at the Casa Narino palace. "On both the enforcement side but also on the comprehensive approach to the problem which is so necessary, I think that we're largely in sync," he added. As part of that "comprehensive" approach, Petro highlighted his goal of purchasing arable land to redistribute to small farmers, at a cost of "$7 to $14 billion," he said. He also called on the United States to strengthen cooperation in the field of intelligence and in the protection of maritime areas around Colombia. On immigration, a thorny issue for the administration of US President Joe Biden as his Democratic party heads into the upcoming midterm elections, Blinken praised Colombia for welcoming more than two million displaced Venezuelans. He called a policy by Colombia, launched under the previous administration, to give temporary protected status for 10 years to Venezuelans "a model for the region indeed, a model for the world." Story continues - Attention to the region - The trip by the top US diplomat, whose country has been more focused in recent times on Asia and on the war in Ukraine, appears aimed partly at addressing any concerns of US neglect for its hemispheric allies. His trip began a day after a hard-fought first-round election in Brazil, where voters faced a stark contrast between far-right President Jair Bolsonaro and leftist challenger and former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. After a tight first round, in which Bolsonaro did surprisingly well, there will be a run-off on October 30 with Brazil possibly also about to swing to the left. Despite speculation that Bolsonaro might not accept electoral defeat, Blinken said Sunday the US shares "Brazil's confidence that the second round will be conducted in the same spirit of peace and civic duty." Blinken's tour comes on the heels of a prisoner exchange between the US and Venezuela, reflecting a cautious warming between the two despite the fact that Washington has never recognized the disputed 2018 re-election of Nicolas Maduro as president. "We have never had stronger relations with this hemisphere," said Brian Nichols, US assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere Affairs, ahead of Blinken's trip. "We are not judging countries based on where they fall on the political spectrum but rather their commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and human rights," he said. - Busy OAS agenda - Blinken travels to Chile Wednesday for talks with President Gabriel Boric, a 36-year-old former leader of student protests who came to power in March. The US diplomat will end his trip in Peru on Thursday and Friday, where he will meet President Pedro Castillo, a former union leader who is the son of peasant farmers. Since coming to power last year, Castillo has faced multiple investigations for corruption and influence-peddling. While in Lima, Blinken will take part in the yearly general assembly of the Organization of American States, which has a crowded agenda. It will consider a resolution urging an end to "Russian aggression in Ukraine" -- though some Latin American capitals have expressed hesitance -- as well as resolutions on rights abuses in Nicaragua and on the dire economic and political situation in Haiti. Throughout his trip, Blinken will raise US concerns about democracy, immigration, human rights and climate change, the State Department said. bur-des/jh Photo: Armed Forces of Denmark Gas bubbles up from pipeline leak in the Baltic Sea. Sweden has sent a vessel capable of advanced diving missions to the Baltic Sea area where ruptured undersea pipelines had leaked natural gas for days, the Swedish navy said Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of sabotaging Russia-built natural gas pipelines under the Baltic Sea to Germany, a charge vehemently denied by the United States and its allies, who noted that Russia has been blackmailing Europe with reduced gas supplies for months. Last week, undersea blasts involving several hundred pounds of explosives damaged the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines off southern Sweden and Denmark and led to huge methane leaks in international waters in the Baltic Sea. Capt. Jimmie Adamsson, a spokesman for the Swedish navy, told The Associated Press that a submarine rescue ship had been sent to the site of the leaks off Sweden and was supporting the Swedish coast guard, which is in charge of the work. It was unclear when anyone or anything would be able to go down to the pipelines, either divers or a submarine. The coast guard said one of its vessels, Amfritrite, was at the site to monitor nearby sea traffic. It added that bad weather is expected, which will complicate the situation. Over the weekend, authorities in Denmark said the Nord Stream 1 and 2 natural gas pipelines had stopped leaking. However, the Swedish coast guard said one of its planes had reported that the smaller leak over Nord Stream 2 has instead increased somewhat again," was about 30 meters (100 feet) in diameter and it may take some time" before it stops. The coast guard offered no explanation as to why the leak had increased. The other one, over Nord Stream 1, has stopped, it said. Danish authorities were monitoring the two gas leaks east of the Danish Baltic Sea island of Bornholm above Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 with the frigate Absalon, the environmental ship Gunnar Thorson, and a military helicopter. Sweden's prosecuting authority and the Swedish Security Services are heading an investigation, while Copenhagen police were in charge of an inquiry in Denmark. A joint international investigation team from Denmark, Germany and Sweden, among others, was also being set up. The U.N. Security Council held an emergency meeting Friday on the pipelines attacks and Norwegian researchers published a map projecting that a huge plume of methane from the damaged pipelines will travel over large swaths of the Nordic region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Monday noted that unfortunately, both a present and a future are emerging, which are more gloomy than we are used to. Authoritarian forces are gaining ground, and the international community is in turmoil. We got a frightening taste of it last week with the leaks on Nord Stream 1 and 2. It was surprising and worrying, she said. Frederiksen spoke as she presented an 86-page analysis on Denmark's foreign and security policy situation up to 2035. Written before the gas leaks were reported, it concluded "a new iron curtain descends over Europe after Russias brutal attack on Ukraine. Russias willingness to use military force to change borders in Europe and seek to enforce a European order based on spheres of interest means that (Denmark) faces a significantly heightened threat picture." In Norway, members of a voluntary military unit, the Home Guard, were posted outside several petroleum facilities, following a request from the police, to prevent unwanted incidents. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken arrives at Military Transport Air Command CATAM in Bogota, Colombia. (Luisa Gonzalez / Pool) The Biden administration on Monday launched a weeklong courtship of three of Latin Americas newest leftist leaders in a bid to find pragmatic common ground rather than ideological confrontation on a host of issues, including immigration, drug trafficking and the widening influence of China. Day One was a bit discouraging. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken began the mission in Bogota, Colombia, taking a meeting with President Gustavo Petro, who came to office barely two months ago, before heading to Santiago, Chile, and Lima, Peru. In Lima, Blinken will also represent the U.S. at a summit of the Organization of American States. Administration officials say they are confident they can retain healthy relationships with these countries, even as much of Latin America shifts further to the left. That is despite the glaring embarrassment suffered when President Biden refused to invite Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela to the Summit of the Americas in June, a major event meant to showcase hemispheric cooperation. Several countries boycotted in protest. The first stop of Blinken's trip, Bogota, was always going to be the most challenging. Until Petros election, Colombia was governed for decades by one of two main political parties, both centrist or center-right institutions that were typically seen as the best friends the U.S. had in Latin America. The Colombian and U.S. governments cooperated fully in the militarized eradication of vast coca fields, the extradition of drug traffickers and in fighting guerrillas who challenged the status quo in a 50-year civil war. Petro, however, was once one of those guerrillas, and he has already called into question many of the shared policies. He has branded the U.S.-led war on drugs a failure and demanded a new approach that will end the forced eradication of illicit crops and might include legalization of some drugs. Some U.S. officials are privately concerned that cocaine production and exportation, which the U.S. multibillion-dollar efforts did not wipe out, could explode if Petro shifts his drug policy too severely. Story continues In a joint news conference Monday at Casa Narino, the official presidential residence in this verdant Andean capital, Blinken sought to downplay differences. He said he is open to what he called a "holistic" approach to fighting drugs that includes both law enforcement and rural development while tackling the "root causes" that fuel demand. He said the U.S. and Colombian governments are "in sync." Yet Petro seemed to stick to his guns, saying the extradition of Colombians to the U.S. should be rethought while also criticizing the U.S. for ostracizing Cuba. Petro has also broken with the U.S. in renewing ties with the controversial socialist leader of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, and in suggesting that it was a mistake to send more weapons to Ukraine. Each country has to take its own approach to these challenges, a senior State Department official said when asked about Petros rapprochement with Maduro. Later this week, Blinken will meet in the Chilean capital with President Gabriel Boric, a former student activist and one of the youngest leaders in the world, and in Lima with President Pedro Castillo, a former schoolteacher and leftist who is mired in corruption allegations. Blinken said he believes the trend toward the left in recent Latin American elections reflects people wanting governments that will deliver, more than a profound ideological shift. We are not judging countries based on where they fall on the political spectrum but rather their commitment to democracy, the rule of law and human rights, Brian Nichols, assistant secretary of State for Western Hemisphere affairs, said ahead of the trip. He noted that Colombia, Chile and Peru have long been important trading partners with Washington, and all have unbroken if sometimes turbulent recent histories as democracies. Last year, we celebrated 200 years of bilateral relations with Colombia, Nichols said. And this year, well be doing that with Chile and Peru. Blinkens tour started the day after Brazilians voted for president in a race between incumbent far-right populist Jair Bolsonaro and former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, a veteran leftist. Bolsonaro did better than polls suggested he would and forced the race into a runoff when Lula failed to win more than 50% of the vote. Perhaps more than ideology, the bigger challenge in Latin America for the Biden administration may be China. President Xi Jinping has spent billions of dollars in the region on infrastructure, loans and other projects in a thus-far-successful bid to expand Chinas influence and an attempt to eclipse the traditional U.S. presence. Immigration will also be a main topic in all three capitals during Blinken's visit. He praised Colombia for taking in hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans fleeing hardship at home, although Petro's renewal of relations with Caracas might signal a move to encourage Venezuelans to return to their cities. "There are more people displaced from their homes across our planet than at any time in recorded history," Blinken said. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. (Bloomberg) -- President Jair Bolsonaros influence in Brazilian politics will remain strong for the foreseeable future regardless of the result of the countrys Oct. 30 runoff after many of his allies won key congress and local government races. Most Read from Bloomberg Right-wing and centrist parties that support the president now account for around 60% of the lower house and Bolsonaro also got several former members of his cabinet elected to the senate. That guarantees him great influence in congress after a stronger-than-expected performance on Brazils general election Sunday. Even if his leftist challenger Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, 76, wins the runoff, the firebrand president and his movement known as Bolsonarismo could make it hard for the next government to approve reforms or appoint members of Brazils powerful Supreme Court. Brazilian assets rallied on Monday morning on the assumption that in case of winning, Lula will pivot toward the center and prioritize business-friendly policies. While Lula is still likely to win the election, the results in congress give Bolsonaro the ability to advance conservative proposals and block Lulas progressive social agenda in both chambers, according to Flavia Biroli, a political scientist with the University of Brasilia. The presidents agenda got more resources and visibility, she said. What Bloomberg Economics Says Jair Bolsonaros stronger-than-expected performance in Sundays election may lead the Brazilian president to tone down his rhetoric and his competitor, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, to adopt a more pro-market agenda in order to woo moderate voters ahead of the second-round vote. Markets will likely welcome the shifts. Story continues -- Adriana Dupita, Latin America economist -- Click here for the full report In the lower house, the Liberal Party that supports Bolsonaro now has the largest number of lawmakers after adding 19 new legislators, according to preliminary data from Superior Electoral Court. Although PL, as the party is known, traditionally supports whoever runs the country, many of its members who got seats on Sundays election are ideologically aligned with the president. Bolsonaro, 67, also benefited from a strong showing in local elections, with his allies winning outright eight of 27 states including Rio de Janeiro, with six others still at play in a second round including Sao Paulo, the richest in the country, where one of his closest advisers lead results. Controlling some of Brazils top states will give a boost to the president as he plots his campaign to challenge Lula in the second round. In total, Bolsonaro got over 51 million votes on Sunday, or 43% of valid votes compared to Lulas 48%. His three sons remain legislators, with Flavio Bolsonaro being federal senator and Carlos Bolsonaro a council representative in Rio. And even if Eduardo Bolsonaro got less than half of the votes that he received in 2018, he was still re-elected as a lawmaker for Sao Paulo in the lower house. (Updates with analyst comments from fourth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. Friends of Alexis Gabe gather during a vigil in Oakley in February. (Aric Crabb / East Bay Times) Bones discovered in Amador County last week briefly gave hope to the family of a missing woman, but her father has since said they were told the remains were not human. Alexis Gabe, 24, of Oakley, was last seen in January when she visited her ex-boyfriend, Marshall Jones, at his home in Antioch, authorities said. Police think Jones killed Gabe, abandoned her car and disposed of her cellphone. He was the prime suspect in the case but was shot and killed by police in June in Washington state as officers attempted to arrest him in connection with Gabe's disappearance, according to her family. Gabe's father, Gwyn Gabe, told Bay Area news station KGO on Sunday that Jones made a map showing where the woman's body is buried. He said the map included handwritten notes that started at Jones' sister's home in Vacaville and ended somewhere in the Amador County town of Pioneer. On Wednesday, search volunteers found a set of bones in the town, about 50 miles east of Sacramento. Gabe traveled there Saturday as investigators examined the discovery. But in a Facebook message posted Monday, Gabe said the bones were not human. He shared a statement from the Sheriff's Department about the discovery that was sent to the family. "There was animal hair around one of the bones, but out of an abundance of caution a forensic anthropologist was contacted," the Amador County Sheriff's Office said in a written statement to the family. "The forensic anthropologist was able to quickly determine that the bones did not come from a human. We do not have any bones in our possession believed to be human and we have not sent any out for DNA analysis." Gabe concluded by saying, "Another false alarm. Lets continue the search." The Amador County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment via email or phone on Monday. We just want to find her remains so we can bring her home, Gabe told the Mercury News on Sunday. Police believe Jones killed Alexis Gabe in late January when she visited him in Antioch. Her car was found abandoned in Oakley with the key in the ignition and the door open. In February, a search team found her cellphone case in a field near Jones' home. A shattered screen saver that had his DNA was also located, according to the newspaper. Story continues When they tried to take him into custody in connection with Gabe's disappearance, Jones lunged at officers with a knife, police said. A $100,000 reward is being offered for help in the search for Gabe. A Facebook page maintained by family and friends regularly posts updates about the case, including from law enforcement as well as copies of notes allegedly written by Jones. In a recent update, Gwyn Gabe posted a video of his wife stopping along a roadway to check out bags strewn along the side. "Every time she sees black garbage bags on the side of the road she always stops to look and get emotional. This breaks my heart. I hope we find Alexis soon. Please God help us. We just want to wake up from this nightmare and return to living our normal lives again," Gabe wrote. In the video, Rowena Gabe can be heard sobbing as she walks back to her car. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Oakley Police Department at (925) 625-8060. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The Vietnamese Buddhists of the Hai An Pagoda in New Britain have much to celebrate Many of the members are refugees from the country that was ripped apart by war until the south fell to the communist north in 1975. The temple was founded in Bloomfield that year by those who had escaped. Then as the boat people escaped, peaking in 1978 and 1979, the temple grew, moving to their pagoda on Cherry Street. Van Bang, secretary of the Buddhist Association of Connecticut, was a boat person who fled with her parents and three siblings in 1981. She was 17. They left on the perilous voyage with bare hands, she said. I get rescued by the oil rig in the open sea in the Thailand area. She stayed in Thailand twice for three months, as well as Indonesia and Singapore, before coming to America. I dont know if I die or I live on the open sea when I left my country, Bang said. Thats a gamble that we took. Now, the Buddhists pray for those who made it out of Vietnam, those who didnt and those who are still there. They also pray for anyone who has died unexpectedly, helping them to a new life, according to their belief in reincarnation. Lots of people lost their life on the street and nobody know about it, Bang said. Lots of people they escaped Vietnam by walking to Cambodia, to Laos and Thailand. So lots of people lost their life for no reason, unexpected, and no one helping them to pray for them. And this is part that we do for all. They also pray for the Vietnamese women who will be hiding a lot of stuff they dont think can be announced or people [will] know about their private life, such as a pregnancy outside of marriage. Now it gives you a chance to chant for them and pray for them, so hopefully they will get a better life, Bang said. She said she is grateful to this country, where she has earned three masters degrees, including two in engineering, and has been able to take care of her family. She also is thankful for being able to worship freely. Story continues We all want to have Buddhism. We all want to have a temple around us, Bang said. We want to keep our tradition with our religion. We dont want to lose that. Our group carried this so thats why we keep building the temple and with different people helping make it stronger until today. We have our temple there for 42 years. The members will hold a celebration Oct. 10-17, which goes to different temples and includes 28 monks, including one from Vietnam. It will include a special event Oct. 16, a three-hour Trai Dan Chan Te ceremony. Sunday we do the big event, said Bang. ... We also want to use this opportunity to thank you for everyone whos been supporting us. Hai An began in Bloomfield in 1978, in space donated by developer David Chase, although the community had met in peoples homes since 1975, when they fled South Vietnam as it fell to the communist north. In 1995, the pagoda opened on Cherry Street in New Britain. In between, they met in Hartford. The plain building would not be mistaken for a Buddhist temple except for the Buddha outside the front door. Inside are three large and many small Buddhas, each representing a different aspect of the Buddha, and other colorful decorations. Recently, the large Buddhas were painted in more lifelike colors rather than the single bronze hue they had originally. The one in the center, Gautama Buddha founder of the faith is male and all are male Buddhas, Bang said. They also have three neon halos now, instead of just one. The Vietnamese members practice a sect of Buddhism called Pure Land, a branch of Mahayana Buddhism that is the most widely practiced in Southeast Asia. At the beginning of each ceremony, a large Buddhist bell and drum are played in a particular rhythm, called Thinh Dai Hong Chung, an awakening for the people, Bang said. Then the abbot, the Venerable Thich Quang Phap, kneels on cushions on the altar, out of sight of the congregation, to begin the chants. The abbot, with Bang interpreting, said Buddhism is like a road for you. Follow with your heart and we are stressed out enough. The main precepts, according to the abbot, are no killing, no stealing, no sexual impropriety, no lying and no drinking. All are welcome at the pagoda, where sutras are prayed on Tuesdays and Thursdays, mediation in English is held on Wednesdays, the great compassion mantra is prayed on Saturdays and the main service is held on Sundays, when up to 100 people attend. The upcoming celebration, which travels around the country, will include the special event Oct. 16, a three-hour Trai Dan Chan Te ceremony, which only certain monks are able to perform. Trai Dan Chan Te focuses on relieving the unjust sufferings for all of us, those who have suffered the harsh consequences of the war, whether dead or alive, Bang said, as well as for those who are still suffering injustice and for all of us to have the opportunity to heal the bleeding wounds that have not healed for a long time, to reconnect the brotherhood and alleviate the sufferings and grievances that have been stored for a long time. Its a very, very traditional, its like spiritual for Buddhism, Bang said of the ceremony. Thats very important. We do this for everyone. Normally you dont do this every year. You do it on a very special occasion. Or you have enough people [who] know how to perform this ceremony. Not everyone can do it. You have to be specialized in something. Eight monks, dressed in special robes, accompanied by two musicians, will perform the ceremony, which also celebrates everyone alive and dead, Bang said. In Buddhism, we stress people who also have been alive and who pass away or die and whos still alive, she said. So we care about them and not only the people who are alive. Ed Stannard can be reached at estannard@courant.com or 860-993-8190. By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) - Greg Abel, who is next in line to succeed Warren Buffett as Berkshire Hathaway Inc's chief executive, spent more than $68 million on the conglomerate's shares last week, after selling his stake in the company's Berkshire Hathaway Energy unit for $870 million. In four regulatory filings, Abel, 60, said that on Sept. 29 he purchased 168 Class A shares of Berkshire, each costing more than $405,000, on behalf of a family trust. Abel had previously owned five Class A shares and 2,363 Class B shares, according to regulatory filings. Some analysts and shareholders had suggested that Abel should have a greater stake, reflecting his roles as a Berkshire vice chairman and Buffett's likely successor as chief executive. A Class B share is worth about 1/1,500th of a Class A share. The purchases were made three months after Abel sold his 1% stake in Berkshire's energy unit, for which the Omaha, Nebraska-based parent took a $362 million charge to capital. Abel joined Berkshire Hathaway Energy, then known as MidAmerican Energy, in 1992, eight years before Berkshire took it over. He became MidAmerican's chief in 2008, and Berkshire's vice chairman overseeing its dozens of non-insurance businesses in 2018. Abel was awarded $19 million in compensation for each of the last three years, with Buffett setting his pay. Ajit Jain, a vice chairman who oversees Berkshire's insurance businesses, was awarded the same amounts. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) OMAHA, Neb. (AP) Billionaire Warren Buffett's successor bought nearly $70 million worth of stock in the conglomerate he is slated to one day lead. Berkshire Hathaway Vice Chairman Greg Abel on Monday disclosed buying 168 Class A shares in the company in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The purchases made last Thursday at prices between $405,800 and $408,514.01 per share will give Abel a small stake of 173 Class A shares in the Omaha, Nebraska-based company's future. His holdings pale in comparison to Buffett's Berkshire investment. The legendary investor, who has been Berkshire's Chairman and CEO for decades, holds 229,016 A shares and 276 B shares to give him control of more than 30% of Berkshires voting stock. He has been gradually giving his shares away to five foundations, with most of his donations going to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Abel already oversees all of Berkshire's noninsurance businesses, and Buffett has said that he will one day take over as CEO as part of the company's succession plan. But the 92-year-old Buffett says he has no plans to retire. Investors will no doubt be encouraged to see Abel buying some Berkshire shares, but this summer he sold back to the company for $870 million his stake in Berkshire's Iowa-based utility division that he used to lead. So even after these recent purchases of Berkshire stock, he has a significantly smaller investment in Berkshire that he used to. Edward Jones analyst Jim Shanahan said he's glad to see Abel investing in Berkshire shares because it demonstrates his alignment with shareholders. But he said it's a relatively small investment given Abel's wealth and compared to his previous stake in Berkshire Hathaway Energy. Berkshire owns more than 90 different companies including BNSF railroad, Geico insurance, several major utilities and an assortment of manufacturing and retail companies that includes Dairy Queen, See's Candy, Helzberg Diamonds and Precision Castparts. Besides the companies it owns outright, Berkshire also has a sizeable investment portfolio with major stakes in iconic companies such as Apple, Coca-Cola, Bank of America and American Express. (Bloomberg) -- The US Supreme Court left intact the federal ban on bump stocks, the attachments that can make a semiautomatic rifle fire like a machine gun, turning away arguments from advocates including the National Rifle Association. Most Read from Bloomberg The justices without comment rejected two challenges to a criminal ban the Trump administration put in place after the October 2017 Las Vegas concert massacre, when about a dozen bump stocks were found in the shooters hotel room. Sixty people were killed in that attack, the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history. The order comes three months after the justices ruled in a New York case that most people have a constitutional right to carry a handgun in public. It follows a series of mass shootings this year, including the rampage that left 19 children and two teachers dead at an Uvalde, Texas, elementary school. The bump-stock rejections end months of behind-the-scenes maneuvering. The justices were originally scheduled to discuss one of the appeals, pressed by Utah gun lobbyist W. Clark Aposhian, at a private conference in December. They rescheduled the case 20 times, and eventually decided to carry it over to the new term. The Supreme Court also rejected a separate challenge pressed by people and groups led by Gun Owners of America. The challengers argued that Congress didnt give the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives authority to classify bump stocks as machine guns, which have been virtually banned in the US since 1986. They also faulted a federal appeals court for invoking Chevron deference, a legal doctrine requiring judges in many cases to defer to regulatory agencies on the meaning of ambiguous laws. The opponents said Chevron deference shouldnt apply to the interpretation of criminal statutes. Story continues Imposing criminal liability comes with certain stigmas and a loss of liberty, the NRA argued in a friend-of-the-court brief in the Aposhian case. Those moral judgments are the types of important questions that Congress must answer itself. ATF estimated when it proposed the rule that US residents possessed 520,000 bump stocks, which the ban required to be relinquished or destroyed. The Supreme Court let the ban take effect in 2019. The Biden administration urged the Supreme Court to reject the appeals without a hearing. The administration said ATF didnt rely on Chevron deference, making the case a poor choice for determining the reach of that legal doctrine. ATFs interpretation reflects the best understanding of the statutory language, Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar argued. The National Firearms Act defines a machine gun as any weapon which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. The cases are Aposhian v. Garland, 21-159, and Gun Owners of America v. Garland, 21-1215. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. OUAGADOUGOU (Reuters) -Children in Burkina Faso's capital Ouagadougou returned to school on Monday for the start of the new academic year, as residents sought some semblance of normality days after the country's second military coup this year. Army Captain Ibrahim Traore announced on Friday evening that he had ousted Burkina Faso's military leader, Paul-Henri Damiba, sparking a weekend of upheaval as violent protests broke out in the capital and two army factions battled for control. Damiba offered his resignation on Sunday, with a list of conditions. He had ousted the country's previous president, Roch Kabore, in January for failing to contain an Islamist insurgency - the same reason Traore said he ousted Damiba. Neighbouring Togo's government on Monday confirmed reports that Damiba was in the country, saying he was being hosted "in the spirit of peace". Political instability in Burkina Faso could worsen disruption that rampant insecurity has already brought upon schools across the region, which are often targeted by militants. More than 11,000 schools in the Central Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin are closed due to conflict or threats made against teachers and students, according to UNICEF. Children across the region have missed out on their first day of school this year. "It was an uncertain start to the school year but thanks to God, everything is going well. The atmosphere is good," said Weknouni Kabre, a teacher at Pissy primary school, where smiling students greeted their friends and lined up for roll call. "With a little worry given the situation, our wish as parents is that things go normally," said Seydou Niampa, the father of two students at Pissy. "Since the authorities are reassuring us, we wish them good luck too with this first day." Business had returned to usual throughout the capital on Monday, with bustling streets and stores reopened. But tensions remained. Story continues Protests broke out over the weekend at the French embassy, after Traore's forces said Damiba had taken refuge at a French army base. France has denied any involvement in the events. A few smaller, scattered protests were reported across the capital on Monday. One outside the French embassy was quickly broken up by military police, an embassy source said. "We can't be 100% sure there won't be any disruptions. But we dare to believe that... we'll be able to start and complete the year in peace," said Edgard Zongo, director of the Pissy school. (Reporting by Thiam Ndiaga; Additional reporting by Anne Mimault in Ouagadougou and Noel Kokou Tadegnon in Lome; Writing by Nellie Peyton; Editing by Sofia Christensen and Sandra Maler) California Gov. Gavin Newsom delivers remarks after signing a housing package in San Francisco on Sept. 28. (Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, on Friday signed the Freedom to Walk Act, which allows pedestrians to cross the street outside of an intersection without being ticketed, as long as its safe to do so. Until now, jaywalkers in California could receive a fine of up to $198, which could end up costing even more in court fees. As with many minor offenses, enforcement had often proved arbitrary and discriminatory. In one high-profile 1991 case, rapper Tupac Shakur was stopped by Oakland police for jaywalking and, he alleged in a lawsuit that was settled for $42,000, cuffed and choked until he passed out, and was jailed. L.A.s population is only 9% Black, but in L.A., nearly a third of pedestrians issued jaywalking tickets over the last decade were Black, LAist reported in 2021. But thats about to change, although police officers can still stop pedestrians from jaywalking if they are creating an imminent risk of collision with an automobile. This is already the unofficial norm in many large cities, and it was once the norm throughout the country, including in California. Photos of urban streets from the early years of the 20th century including West Coast cities such as San Francisco show the road filled with people alongside horse-drawn carriages. When you visit any city in America today, its a sea of cars, with pedestrians dodging between the speeding autos, Smithsonian magazine reported in 2014. Its almost hard to imagine now, but in the late 1890s, the situation was completely reversed. Pedestrians dominated the roads, and cars were the rare, tentative interlopers. But in the 1920s and 30s, as cars rose in popularity and deadly collisions with pedestrians became a widespread problem, auto companies successfully lobbied local governments to outlaw crossing outside of intersections and without a green light. People jaywalking in light traffic at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street in New York City in 1936. (Tom Watson/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images) Their most brilliant stratagem: To popularize the term jaywalker, Smithsonian wrote. The term derived from jay, a derisive term for a country bumpkin. In the early 1920s, jaywalker wasnt very well known. So pro-car forces actively promoted it, producing cards for Boy Scouts to hand out warning pedestrians to cross only at street corners. ... Only a few years later, in 1924, jaywalker was so well-known it appeared in a dictionary: One who crosses a street without observing the traffic regulations for pedestrians. Story continues In the decades since, cities have largely been built to accommodate cars more than people. The result is that Americans drive a world-leading 16,000 miles per person every year. Thats why transportation is the largest source of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions that are causing climate change, and it is one reason the United States has one of the highest emissions per capita in the world. Now, climate-minded jurisdictions are beginning to unwind car culture and encouraging residents to use cleaner modes of transportation like bicycles and their feet. It should not be a criminal offense to safely cross the street, said California Assembly Member Phil Ting, a Democrat from San Francisco, who sponsored the Freedom to Walk Act. When expensive tickets and unnecessary confrontations with police impact only certain communities, its time to reconsider how we use our law enforcement resources and whether our jaywalking laws really do protect pedestrians. Plus, we should be encouraging people to get out of their cars and walk for health and environmental reasons. Advocates argue that criminalizing pedestrians hasnt worked and that cities should instead improve pedestrian safety with traffic-calming measures that will force cars to slow down and proceed more carefully. A pedestrian crosses the street in front of the Hollywood sign in 2021 in Los Angeles. (Mario Tama/Getty Images) Californias pedestrian fatality rate is almost 25% higher than the national average, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety, noted Anne Stuhldreher, who directs the Financial Justice Project in the San Francisco city treasurers office, in a 2021 blog post. But we cant ticket our way to safer streets. The focus should be on designing smart streetscapes that are people-centric, not car-centric. Roadways should have sufficient sidewalks, multiple functional streetlights and abundant safe street crossings. Crosswalks should be broadened, better illuminated and timed to give walkers more time to cross the street. Lets make cars slow down. Install speed bumps. Ban right turns at red lights, which increases pedestrian crashes by 60%. The new law follows Californias recent range of actions taken to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, including state regulators making a rule a week earlier banning gas-burning heating and hot water systems as of 2030 and a rule in August that new vehicles sold in the state from 2035 onward must be electric. (On the same day that he signed the jaywalking bill, however, Newsom announced an easing of restrictions on oil refining to allow more polluting types of gasoline in California, in order to ease the states high prices at the pump.) The state Legislature also recently struck a blow against the states entrenched car culture in September, when it passed a law eliminating minimum parking requirements for new buildings near public transit stops. California is not the first locality to decriminalize jaywalking. The state of Virginia did so in March 2021 and it had no discernible effect on pedestrian traffic fatalities through the rest of the year. Kansas City, Mo., fully legalized jaywalking in 2021 and there is not sufficient data yet to determine whether it has affected traffic safety. Photo: The Canadian Press Stewart Rhodes, founder of the citizen militia group known as the Oath Keepers. The founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group and four associates planned for an armed rebellion to stop the transfer of presidential power on Jan. 6, 2021, prosecutors told jurors Monday at the opening of the most serious case to reach trial in the attack on the U.S. Capitol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Nestler delivered his an opening statement in Washington's federal court in the trial of Stewart Rhodes and others charged with seditious conspiracy. They are accused of a weekslong plot to stop the transfer of power from Republican Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Their goal was to stop by whatever means necessary the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by taking up arms against the United States government," he said. They concocted a plan for armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy. The Oath Keepers planned their conspiracy in plain sight, Nestler said, noting open letters Rhodes published on the group's website. They also used encrypted apps, like Signal, to message in secret, he said. Defense attorneys will also get their first chance to address jurors, who were chosen last week after days of questioning over their feelings about the insurrection, Trump supporters and other matters. The judge on Monday denied another request from the defense attorneys to move the trial out of D.C., where they contend the jury pool is biased against them. The stakes are high for the Justice Department, which last secured a seditious conspiracy conviction at trial nearly 30 years ago. About 900 people have been charged and hundreds convicted in the Capitol attack. Rioters stormed past police barriers, engaged in hand-to-hand combat with officers, smashed windows and halted the certification of Biden's electoral victory. But the Oath Keepers are the first to stand trial on seditious conspiracy, a rare Civil War-era charge that carries up to 20 years behind bars. The trial is expected to last several weeks. Prosecutors will tell jurors that the insurrection for the antigovernment group was not a spontaneous outpouring of election-fueled rage but part of a drawn-out plot to stop Biden from entering the White House. On trial with Rhodes, of Granbury, Texas, are Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida chapter of the Oath Keepers; Kenneth Harrelson, another Florida Oath Keeper; Thomas Caldwell, a retired U.S. Navy intelligence officer from Virginia; and Jessica Watkins, who led an Ohio militia group. They face several other charges as well. Authorities say Rhodes began plotting to overturn Bidens victory just days after the election. Court records show the Oath Keepers repeatedly warning of the prospect of violence or a bloody, bloody civil war, as Rhodes said in one call if Biden were to become president. By December, authorities say, Rhodes and the Oath Keepers had set their sights on Congress certification of the Electoral College vote on Jan. 6. The Oath Keepers organized trainings including one in unconventional warfare" and stashed weapons at a Virginia hotel so they could get them into the capital quickly if necessary, prosecutors say. Over several days in early January, Rhodes spent an $15,500 on guns, including an AR-platform rifle, magazines, mounts, sights and other equipment, according to court documents. On Jan. 6, Oath Keepers equipped with communication devices, helmets, vests and other battle gear were seen on camera storming the Capitol. Rhodes is not accused of going inside, but telephone records show he was communicating with Oath Keepers who did enter around the time of the riot and he was seen with members outside afterward. And prosecutors say the plot didn't end on Jan. 6. In the days between the riot and Bidens inauguration, Rhodes spent more than $17,000 on firearm parts, magazines, ammunition and other items, prosecutors say. Around the time of the inauguration, Rhodes told others to organize local militias to oppose the Democratic administration, authorities say. Patriots entering their own Capitol to send a message to the traitors is NOTHING compared to whats coming, Rhodes wrote in a message the evening of Jan. 6. Defense attorneys have said the Oath Keepers came to Washington only to provide security at events for figures such as Trump ally Roger Stone before the presidents big outdoor rally behind the White House. Rhodes has said there was no plan to attack the Capitol and that the members who did acted on their own. Rhodes' lawyers are poised to argue that jurors cannot find him guilty of seditious conspiracy because all the actions he took before Jan. 6 were in preparation for orders he anticipated from Trump orders that never came. Rhodes' attorney has said that his client will eventually take the stand to argue that he believed Trump was going to invoke the Insurrection Act and call up a militia, which Rhodes had been calling on him to do to stop Biden from becoming president. Rhodes' attorneys will argue that what prosecutors have alleged was an illegal conspiracy was merely lobbying the president to use a U.S. law. Prosecutors say Rhodes' own words show he was going to act regardless of what Trump did. In one message from December 2020, Rhodes wrote that Trump needs to know that if he fails to act, then we will. The last successful seditious conspiracy case was against an Egyptian cleric, Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman, and nine followers convicted in a plot to blow up the United Nations, the FBIs building, and two tunnels and a bridge linking New York and New Jersey. Warning "no-one will escape" a worsening crisis, DR Congo led calls on Monday for a surge in funding to brake global heating and fight its impacts at the start of pre-COP27 climate talks in Kinshasa. The haggle comes ahead of COP27 -- the UN's 27th summit-level gathering on climate change, which is due to take place in Egypt next month. At opening ceremonies in the DRC's parliament building, Congolese Environment Minister Eve Bazaiba called on countries to respect financial pledges and endorse plans to help compensate climate-inflicted damage. She added that money to protect carbon-absorbing rain forests -- of which the DRC has vast tracts -- should be viewed not as aid but as an investment in humanity's future. "Unless a global effort is made ... no-one will escape," Bazaiba warned. "We all breathe the same air". Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry also stressed the need for more money, noting an unfulfilled promise -- dating back to COP15 in Copenhagen in 2009 -- to provide developing countries with $100 billion dollars a year to fight climate change. "The picture is not reassuring," he said. Deputy UN Secretary-General Amina Mohammed offered a gloomy update on the battle today. "All indicators on climate are heading in the wrong direction," she said. Current funding for climate adaptation is a "pittance" compared to the likely scale of future needs, she said. - Damages - Delegates from over 50 countries are attending the two-day informal talks in Kinshasa, including US climate envoy John Kerry. The event winds up on Wednesday with side discussions. No formal announcements are expected in what is billed as a ground-clearing exercise ahead of the next month's conference, taking place in Sharm el-Sheikh from November 6-18. Greater support from wealthier countries, historically the world's biggest carbon polluters, to their poorer counterparts is expected to dominate the talks. But post-pandemic economic strains and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have cast a pall over the money question. Story continues The last UN climate summit, COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021, reaffirmed the goal -- agreed in Paris in 2015 -- of limiting the rise in the Earth's average temperature to well below 2.0 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5C. However, the latter goal may already be beyond reach as the Earth's temperature is already 1.2C higher than before the Industrial Revolution. Poorer countries had also pushed at Glasgow for a financial mechanism to address losses and damage caused by climate change. But richer states rejected the call and the participants agreed instead to start a "dialogue" on financial compensation for damages. - 'We also need bread' - Egypt, as host of COP27, has made implementing the pledge to curb global heating the priority of the November summit. The Democratic Republic of Congo, for its part, is pushing the message that it can act as a "solution country" for climate change due to its vast rainforests, which act as a carbon sink. Around 30 billion tonnes of carbon are stored across the Congo Basin, researchers estimated in a study for Nature in 2016. The figure is roughly equivalent to three years of global emissions. However, the central African nation in July launched an auction for 30 oil and gas blocs -- ignoring warnings from environmentalists that drilling could harm ecosystems and release vast amounts of heat-trapping gases. Bazaiba, the environment minister, told pre-COP27 delegates that Africa was facing a dilemma since the continent has contributed so little to climate change and yet has fossil-fuel resources that could alleviate poverty. "What should we do in this circumstance, let our children and small children die of hunger?" she asked, as applause rung out in the hall of the parliament building. "As much as we need oxygen, we also need bread," she said, at-eml/ri Canton Police CANTON Police are searching for a 16-year-old suspect accused of shooting two people multiple times. Officers were called to a home in the 1200 block of Wertz Avenue NW around 6:35 p.m. Friday for a shooting and found a 33-year-old man and 41-year-old man, both of Canton, with several gunshot wounds. Both men were conscious when emergency personnel arrived. Canton Fire Department transported both victims to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. Shooting:Canton police investigating early morning shooting, person of interest in custody During the investigation, detectives identified the suspect and an arrest warrant was issued for two counts of felonious assault with gun specifications. The suspect remains at large. A 13-year-old girl was arrested at the home for felony obstructing justice. The investigation continues. Anyone with information regarding the crime or the whereabouts of the suspect is asked to call the Canton Police Detective Bureau at 330-489-3144. Anonymous tips also can be sent through Tip411 or the Stark County Crime Stoppers. Sign up for Tip411 at www.cantonohio.gov/police. This article originally appeared on The Repository: Canton police search for 16-year-old suspect in Wertz Avenue shooting BUDAPEST (Reuters) - The leaders of Hungary, Serbia and Austria pledged new measures on Monday to contain the flow of illegal migrants into the European Union through the Western Balkans, as border control forces become increasingly strained. In the first eight months of this year, 86,581 irregular entries were detected at the external borders of the European Union with the Western Balkans, border agency Frontex has said, a 190% increase from last year. The measures would be aimed at pushing down the EU's front line of defence towards North Macedonia from Hungary's southern border with Serbia, deporting illegal migrants and creating areas outside the bloc's borders to submit asylum requests, said Viktor Orban, the prime minister of Hungary, which initiated the efforts. "Now this line is on the Serbian-Hungarian border. This is not good for Serbia and we are not happy about this either," Orban told a news conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer. "If we changed EU law ... so that asylum requests can be submitted only in hotspots outside the EU and entry into Europe would not be granted until these are assessed, then our problems would be solved," said Orban, a strong opponent of migration. The leaders aim to thrash out specifics and how to finance the measures during an upcoming meeting in Belgrade, Orban said. Separately, Interior Minister Sandor Pinter said Hungary planned to deploy 4,000 border troops to the southern borders following a Czech decision to temporarily restart border controls on the EU's internal Schengen border with Slovakia last week. "We have to change the legal situation in the EU to have really efficient asylum procedures and if the decision is to return (migrants), then to have efficient return procedures," Austria's Nehammer said. "It is already past the time for action," he added. Vucic said Serbia would align its visa policies with those of the EU so migrants cannot use Serbia as the first country of entry, adding that there was a notable increase in arrivals from Syria, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Story continues He added however that Serbia did not want to host hotspots for migrants. Frontex last month noted the Western Balkan route remained the most active migratory route into the EU, with a 141% increase in detections in August to 15,900. "The high number of illegal border crossings can be attributed to repeated crossing attempts by migrants already present in the Western Balkans," the group said in a statement. (Reporting by Gergely Szakacs; Additional reporting by Jan Lopatka and Aleksandar Vasovic; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Shawna Bobst said she barely remembers the months after her son was shot and killed in June on Columbus' Northeast Side. I think in the beginning, I was just numb. I didnt even know what to do. For an entire week, I just kept saying, What do I do? How do I handle this? My son was murdered, and theres two suspects on the loose, Bobst said. Bobst, 47, of New Albany, lost her son, 18-year-old Layton Ridgedell, to gun violence in June after he and another teen were shot and killed on the Northeast Side. Earlier this month, two teenagers, Baron Anderson, 16, and Terrell Hicks-Freeman, 15, were arrested and charged with two delinquency counts of murder in each in the slayings. As she begins to navigate the process of seeking justice for her son, Bobst said a local organization, Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children, has been bringing her insight from experience and peace through sharing her experiences with people who can understand. Everyone can tell you that they're sorry, but nobody really understands until they've lived it, Bobst said. It's a life sentence of grief that you cant do on your own. You have to have someone there with you; you have to have someone that has been through it. Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children group honored by U.S. Justice Department The U.S. Department of Justice and the office of Kenneth Parker, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio in Columbus, also will recognize Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children and its cofounder, Malissa Thomas-St. Clair, on Tuesday with the "Serve Thy Neighbor" award for their positive impact in their community. The award will be presented at a ceremony Downtown at the Joseph P. Kinneary U.S. District Courthouse. Thomas-St. Clair, a math teacher with Columbus City Schools who lost her son to violence in 2013, said the group focuses on working to end violence that adds more mothers to their sisterhood, and advocates for justice for those who have lost relatives to violence. Story continues 'That's a sad number': Columbus surpasses 100 homicides in 2022, at slower rate that year prior Mitchell Seckman, law enforcement coordinator for the U.S. Southern District of Ohio, said Thomas-St. Clair and the organization were nominated by the Columbus Division of Police and received the award because of the work they are doing to change the discourse around violence in Columbus and throughout the state. It's such a difficult subject that isn't easily spoken about and because of (Thomas-St. Clairs) experience and her background when she talks, people listen, Seckman said. Thomas-St. Clair's 22-year-old son, Anthony, was stabbed to death on April 29, 2013 by Richard R. Cochran, 51, when he went to collect a debt from the sale of promethazine, a prescription antihistamine with codeine. Cochran was sentenced in 2014 to six years in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of voluntary manslaughter. Support, outreach are goals of mothers' group Thomas-St. Clair said the organization has several focuses: serving as a support group for mothers and families who have lost children to violence, an adult division that works with offenders to help them re-enter society, and a youth division that focuses on engaging with young people from a crime prevention perspective. The group also emphasizes community engagement and outreach, which Thomas-St.Clair said is the most visible element of the organization. She said the goal is to unify the community, community leaders and law enforcement against violence. Malissa Thomas-St. Clair: Motivated by own son's death, Malissa Thomas-St. Clair fights for end to Columbus violence When she helped launch the group in 2020, Thomas-St. Clair said it was a gamble because of the protests that year around racial injustice and the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. She said trust of law enforcement among people of color was at an all-time low. Our foundational purpose is to make sure we reunify what's so broken right now, she said. "So for us to stand out on the island and say, 'This is going to be our olive branch and our bridge,' that was risky. And I'm glad to see that it's paying off and to see that we can be neighbors together. We can work with one another to reimagine the safety of our city." Seckman said the work that Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children has done to bridge gaps and encourage dialogue speaks for itself. It's one thing to act as a support group, it's another to go out there and do proactive stuff to change the narrative of the shootings and the violence, Seckman said. Bobst said the organization has helped her get in contact with homicide detectives, helped her set expectations for a timeline in the courts system and generally helped guide her through the process of justice and grief. You never move on from grief, but you can accept it, and it's hard for me to do that because its a murder and every so often something is coming back and haunting me, Bobst said. I can't say enough good things about them. I wouldn't be as far in my grief process if it wasn't for them helping me with grieving. Thomas-St. Clair said the federal Serve Thy Neighbor award validates the work Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children is doing, and emphasized that it's recognition that belongs to the whole organization. This award is not a Malissa Thomas-St. Clair award. This award is for the Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children and everyone who supports us, she said. This is a group effort not one person can do this by any means. Thomas-St. Clair said that when she accepts the award it will most importantly be for "the mothers who are putting their pain out there for the purpose of community engagement. @Colebehr_report Cbehrens@dispatch.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children honored by feds The US defence secretary Lloyd Austin has said he does not see an imminent invasion of Taiwan by China but agreed that Beijing is establishing a new normal with its military drills in the region. In an interview with CNN on Monday, he said the US was committed to helping Taiwan develop the capability to defend itself, taking a subdued approach compared to president Joe Bidens repeated remarks implying a US military intervention in any conflict between Beijing and Taipei. I dont see an imminent invasion, Mr Austin told CNN host Fareed Zakaria. What we do see is China moving to establish what we would call a new normal. He added: Increased activity we saw a number of centre line crossings of the Taiwan Strait by their aircraft. That number has increased over time. Weve seen more activity with their surface vessels and waters in and around Taiwan. The visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan from 2-3 August triggered unprecedented combat drills by Chinese forces in the Taiwan Strait a narrow 110-mile-wide stretch of sea that separates the island of Taiwan and mainland China. The drills included the firing of long-range precision artillery into the Taiwan Strait, the launch of ballistic missiles over Taiwan, and air incursions on the islands six zones which surround it. China has maintained a daily naval and aerial presence around Taiwan since, albeit on a much-reduced scale. The US and its allies have condemned these efforts to strangulate Taiwan and responded by continuing to sail through the region. Mr Austin promised to continue to work with regional allies to ensure that we maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. He added that he spoke to his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe on the phone and in person during his time as Secretary of Defence but confirmed the communications channel between the two is closed right now. Following Ms Pelosis visit, China halted cooperation with the US in a number of areas, including dialogue between senior-level military commanders, as an expression of its opposition. Story continues Well do everything we can to continue to signal that we want those channels open, and I would hope that China would begin to lean forward a bit more and work with us, Mr Austin said. When asked directly if the Pentagon would defend Taiwan against an invasion by China, Mr Austin responded that US forces are always prepared to protect our interests and live up to our commitments. The defence secretary stopped short of reaffirming Mr Bidens most recent vow to defend the island, however. Mr Biden had said on CBS 60 Minutes that US forces would defend Taiwan if in fact there was an unprecedented attack. Mr Biden has made similar statements previously, prompting the White House to issue clarifications that its policy on Taiwan had not changed. The US maintains a deliberate policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan as set out in the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, which says Washington will assist the island by providing arms to defend and resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardise the security, or the social or economic system, of the people on Taiwan. It does not state that US troops will themselves fight against China in the event of an attack. On Sunday, Mr Austin reiterated that the Biden governments one-China policy hasnt changed. In accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act, you know, were committed to helping Taiwan develop the capability to defend itself, and that work has gone on over time, he added. (Refiles to correct paragraph 8 spelling of "Petro") BOGOTA (Reuters) -A delegation from Colombia's National Liberation Army (ELN) traveled to Venezuela for what the leftist rebel group said could be a new phase in peace talks with the Colombian government that will also involve other ELN representatives. The visit is a next step towards the government's goal of full peace to end a nearly six-decade internal conflict that killed at least 450,000, analysts say. The United States and the European Union consider the rebels a terrorist group. The talks will include representatives from Cuba, Norway and Venezuela, which have jointly been trying to help them along, sources close to the process said on condition of anonymity. "Today ... the delegation of dialogues has returned with security and guarantees," the rebel group said in a statement that mentioned the presence of the three nations' representatives, but gave no further details. The Colombian government could not immediately be reached for comment about the delegation's trip to Venezuela. The ELN negotiators who have stayed in Cuba for the last four years face arrest warrants for accusations of crimes such as murders, massacres, terrorism and rebellion, while some are wanted in the United States, judicial sources say. In a statement, the office of the High Commissioner for Peace said the Colombian government of President Gustavo Petro was complying with protocols agreed with the rebels "as a fundamental step to achieve total peace." The first leftist president of his South American nation, Gustavo Petro had promised to seek peace with the guerrillas and criminal gangs after assuming the presidency on August 7. He said he was suspending arrest warrants and extradition requests for members of the left-wing guerrilla group in the bid to resume talks. Previous governments' talks with ELN, which has about 2,400 fighters and is accused of financing kidnapping, extortion, drug trafficking and illegal mining, were stymied by the group's positions, diffuse chain of command and dissent in its ranks. Story continues A peace process between the ELN and the government must bring profound changes for the well-being of all of society, the guerrillas' first commander, Antonio Garcia, told Reuters recently. The process started in Ecuador during the government of former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos before being moved to Cuba. Santos' successor, Ivan Duque, did not pursue it, however, after the group declined demands such as the suspension of hostilities. (Reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) One man has died following a shooting on Friday afternoon in the 6100 block of Georgetown Drive. Columbus Police Department responded to a shooting at approximately 5:38 p.m. on Friday. They found Steven Daniels in the driveway with a gunshot wound upon arriving. He was taken to Piedmont Columbus Regional Emergency Room where he was declared dead at 6:23 p.m. If you or anyone you know has any information regarding this incident please contact Corporal Roy Green at 706-225-4261 or email roygreen@columbusga.org or the Homicide Unit at 706-225-3161. Comcast NBCUniversal, Universal Orlandos parent company, and Universal Orlando are donating $2 million toward Hurricane Ian relief efforts, Comcast said Monday. The Universal Orlando Foundations contribution includes donating food to those in need through local organizations, according to a release. The total $2 million donation includes $1 million in cash and undisclosed in-kind contributions to the states Florida Disaster Fund, which assists residents statewide. The rest of the donation will go to the Comcast NBCUniversal Employee Assistance Fund, the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, veteran-led disaster response organization Team Rubicon, United Way and the American Red Cross. Comcast is also providing grants to Universal employees in distress through the Comcast NBCUniversal Employee Disaster Assistance Fund, which is primarily funded by employee donations, and the company is matching employee donations to eligible nonprofit disaster relief organizations. The Walt Disney Co. is also distributing money from its relief fund to employees affected by Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, the company said Friday. Hurricane Fiona hit Puerto Rico Sept. 18, and thousands are still without power on the island two weeks later. Disney is supporting additional local hurricane relief efforts through organizations like the American Red Cross, Feeding America and Heart of Florida United Way. krice@orlandosentinel.com and @katievrice on Twitter Photo: North Shore News A worker has been killed in a tree falling accident in Princess Park, North Vancouver RCMP say. Around 11:40 a.m. on Friday, first responders were called to a medical emergency involving an arborist, just east of the children's playground in park. Unfortunately, he did not survive his injuries, said Const. Mansoor Sahak, North Vancouver RCMP spokesperson. Police are not releasing the name of the victim, although Sahak said he was a man in his 30s. The RCMP have ruled out criminal wrongdoing in the case and WorkSafeBC and the BC Coroners Service are now investigating exactly what happened in the incident. Those details are not quite clear yet, Sahak said. The District of North Vancouver, which owns Princess Park, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A sign affixed by the district to a tree at a nearby trailhead notifies park users of tree removal, with a message: "In the coming weeks, select trees in this area will be removed. They have become hazardous and pose a risk to public safety." We'd like to extend our condolences to the victim and his family. It's a very tragic incident. We're working with WorkSafe BC, BC Coroners Service to do a fulsome investigation and, obviously prevent similar tragedies in the future, Sahak said. Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, although Amazon.com made losses for many years after listing, if you had bought and held the shares since 1999, you would have made a fortune. But the harsh reality is that very many loss making companies burn through all their cash and go bankrupt. So should Falcon Metals (ASX:FAL) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? For the purpose of this article, we'll define cash burn as the amount of cash the company is spending each year to fund its growth (also called its negative free cash flow). First, we'll determine its cash runway by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves. View our latest analysis for Falcon Metals When Might Falcon Metals Run Out Of Money? A company's cash runway is calculated by dividing its cash hoard by its cash burn. When Falcon Metals last reported its balance sheet in June 2022, it had zero debt and cash worth AU$25m. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$3.8m over the trailing twelve months. That means it had a cash runway of about 6.5 years as of June 2022. Even though this is but one measure of the company's cash burn, the thought of such a long cash runway warms our bellies in a comforting way. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below. Can Falcon Metals Raise More Cash Easily? Generally speaking, a listed business can raise new cash through issuing shares or taking on debt. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. By comparing a company's annual cash burn to its total market capitalisation, we can estimate roughly how many shares it would have to issue in order to run the company for another year (at the same burn rate). Since it has a market capitalisation of AU$35m, Falcon Metals' AU$3.8m in cash burn equates to about 11% of its market value. Given that situation, it's fair to say the company wouldn't have much trouble raising more cash for growth, but shareholders would be somewhat diluted. Story continues Is Falcon Metals' Cash Burn A Worry? Because Falcon Metals is an early stage company, we don't have a great deal of data on which to form an opinion of its cash burn. We would undoubtedly be more comfortable if it had reported some operating revenue. However, it is fair to say that its cash runway gave us comfort. In conclusion, we don't see why investors should be concerned with its cash burn, at least for some time. Separately, we looked at different risks affecting the company and spotted 3 warning signs for Falcon Metals (of which 1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) you should know about. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies insiders are buying, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts) Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here Nurses Debbie Black and Rachel Lee double check a COVID-19 vaccine dose for a child during a vaccine clinic in Hamilton, Massachusetts, on Sept. 9. Ohio reported far fewer coronavirus cases in the week ending Sunday, adding 12,101 new cases. That's down 16.8% from the previous week's tally of 14,536 new cases of the virus that causes COVID-19. Ohio ranked 18th among the states where coronavirus was spreading the fastest on a per-person basis, a USA TODAY Network analysis of Johns Hopkins University data shows. In the latest week coronavirus cases in the United States decreased 19.4% from the week before, with 323,859 cases reported. With 3.51% of the country's population, Ohio had 3.74% of the country's cases in the last week. Across the country, 10 states had more cases in the latest week than they did in the week before. Coshocton County reported 32 cases and no deaths in the latest week. A week earlier, it had reported 61 cases and no deaths. Throughout the pandemic it has reported 9,446 cases and 166 deaths. Across Ohio, cases fell in 75 counties, with the best declines in Cuyahoga County, with 1,224 cases from 1,694 a week earlier; in Franklin County, with 1,162 cases from 1,398; and in Hamilton County, with 663 cases from 794. >> See how your community has fared with recent coronavirus cases Within Ohio, the worst weekly outbreaks on a per-person basis were in Butler County with 230 cases per 100,000 per week; Guernsey County with 188; and Williams County with 172. The Centers for Disease Control says high levels of community transmission begin at 100 cases per 100,000 per week. Adding the most new cases overall were Cuyahoga County, with 1,224 cases; Franklin County, with 1,162 cases; and Butler County, with 883. Weekly case counts rose in 12 counties from the previous week. The worst increases from the prior week's pace were in Butler, Lucas and Brown counties. In Ohio, zero people were reported dead of COVID-19 in the week ending Sunday. In the week before that, 12 people were reported dead. A total of 3,143,746 people in Ohio have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, and 39,856 people have died from the disease, Johns Hopkins University data shows. In the United States 96,397,885 people have tested positive and 1,059,605 people have died. Story continues >> Track coronavirus cases across the United States Ohio's COVID-19 hospital admissions falling USA TODAY analyzed federal hospital data as of Sunday, Oct. 2. Likely COVID patients admitted in the state: Last week: 1,776 The week before that: 1,971 Four weeks ago: 2,141 Likely COVID patients admitted in the nation: Last week: 51,355 The week before that: 53,692 Four weeks ago: 61,434 Hospitals in 17 states reported more COVID-19 patients than a week earlier, while hospitals in 25 states had more COVID-19 patients in intensive-care beds. Hospitals in 17 states admitted more COVID-19 patients in the latest week than a week prior, the USA TODAY analysis of U.S. Health and Human Services data shows. The USA TODAY Network is publishing localized versions of this story on its news sites across the country, generated with data from Johns Hopkins University and the Centers for Disease Control. If you have questions about the data or the story, contact Mike Stucka at mstucka@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: Coshocton County reported 32 additional COVID-19 cases this week Police and city officials would be limited in their ability to investigate a person for accessing or providing abortions in Des Moines under a proposed resolution drafted by City Council member Josh Mandelbaum. Mandelbaum says Des Moines should do its part to safeguard access to abortion for residents in a state that could impose further restrictions on reproductive health care. With other cities across the country taking action to protect abortion access following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, he said, the resolution also would send a signal to the community that Des Moines is not idly standing by. Mandelbaum will call for a vote at Monday's council meeting to further discuss the resolution at a later council workshop. Des Moines City Council member Josh Mandelbaum "We know the folks we represent overwhelmingly support access to abortion care and that should be codified in state and federal law," Mandelbaum said. "This issue is of (significant) importance. It's a value statement and it's something we can do to signal to our residents that we're in opposition." In June, the Iowa Supreme Court overturned a 2018 decision enshrining abortion as a "fundamental right" in Iowa. A week later, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, two federal decisions that for decades had limited state restrictions on abortion. Abortions remain legal in Iowa up to 20 weeks of pregnancy, and a July Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll found 60% of Iowans favor keeping abortion legal in most or all cases. But in the wake of the court decisions, lawyers for Gov. Kim Reynolds are seeking to revive a six-week abortion ban a Polk County judge blocked after it received legislative approval. "We know with what the U.S. Supreme Court did (in overturning nationwide legal protections for abortion rights) ... they explicitly said this is better to be decided by local elected officials who are closest to the consequences," Mandelbaum said. "We're actually even closer to the consequences of these actions than some of these state officials. Story continues "Our constituents are directly impacted. It's the people in our community who are going to lose access to health care directly if the governor is trying to reinstate the 'fetal heartbeat' bill," he said, referring to the six-week ban, which is based on when a fetal heartbeat can first be detected. More:See what Chuck Grassley, Mike Franken say about abortion and inflation in Iowa's U.S. Senate race What would the Des Moines abortion resolution do? Under the proposal, the city of Des Moines, except to the extent otherwise required by federal and state law, would not use its funds to: Store or catalog any reports of abortion or miscarriage. Give abortion or reproductive health care information to governmental bodies or agencies, unless it's to defend a patient or health care provider's rights. Conduct surveillance or collect information about a person or organization to determine if an abortion has occurred. According to the proposal, charges or information relating to the outcome of a pregnancy and abortion-related care will be the "lowest priority for enforcement and the use of City resources." The proposal would require the council to work on an ordinance that would prohibit discrimination, that, for example, could prevent a person from getting a house or employment based on reproductive health decisions, Mandelbaum said. The city also would draft an ordinance to reimburse its employees for travel relating to receiving reproductive services if they were no longer available in Iowa. More:Where Deidre DeJear, Rick Stewart & Kim Reynolds stand on key issues in Iowa governor race Is the abortion proposal supported within the city council? Mandelbaum could face opposition from at least one of his fellow council members. At-large member Connie Boesen said Friday she does not support the resolution at this time. "I dont believe its a city of Des Moines issue," Boesen said, calling abortion a state and federal matter. "I'm for women's rights ... but dont know if its in the realm of the city." Mandelbaum countered that the council has weighed in on other issues of broad importance, such as marijuana and gun safety. "They are state and federal matters, but they are of sufficient importance that it justifies us weighing in," he said. "I do think we need to use our voice." Ward 2 council member Linda Westergaard echoed Boesen's sentiments, adding discussion about the resolution is not a good use of taxpayer dollars. "I have been fighting for women's equal rights since the '60s," Westergaard said. But "it is not within our purview to be dealing with things like abortion, marijuana that is state-controlled. And I would urge everyone who wants to change the law is that you work with the Legislature and you work to elect people that represent your beliefs. "I was elected to watch where our dollars are spent. Let's spend the money on things that we can fix or make better, such as roads, trees," she said. Mandelbaum said the resolution sets up a parameter so Des Moines is not caught "flat-footed" if the governor is successful in reviving the six-week ban or if the Iowa Legislature takes further action. All of the resolutions will comply with state and federal law, but allow the city to determine how it uses and prioritizes its resources, Mandelbaum said. More:With Roe v. Wade gone, Iowa argues courts should lift injunction on 'fetal heartbeat' abortion ban Des Moines Register reporter Katie Akin contributed to this article. Virginia Barreda is the Des Moines city government reporter for the Register. She can be reached at vbarreda@dmreg.com. Follow her on Twitter at @vbarreda2. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: No abortion investigations in Des Moines under city council proposal (Bloomberg) -- Most Read from Bloomberg Credit Suisse Group AGs gauge of credit risk rose to a record high while its stock hit a fresh low, adding to the turmoil after the banks attempts to reassure markets on its financial stability backfired. The five-year credit default swaps price of about 293 basis points is up from about 55 basis points at the start of the year and at the highest ever, according to ICE Data Services. The shares dropped as much as 12% in Zurich on Monday and have lost about 60% just this year alone, on track for the biggest annual drop in Credit Suisses history. Chief Executive Officer Ulrich Koerner had sought to calm employees and the markets over the weekend only to see his carefully worded memo have the opposite effect. While touting the banks capital levels and liquidity, he acknowledged that the firm was facing a critical moment as it worked towards its latest overhaul. He also told employees that he will be sending them a regular update until the firm announces the new strategic plan on Oct. 27. Credit Suisse again sent around talking points to executives dealing with clients who brought up the credit default swaps, according to people with knowledge of the matter. While the credit default swap levels are still far from distressed and are part of a broad market selloff, they signify deteriorating perceptions of creditworthiness for the scandal-hit bank in the current environment. There is now a roughly 23% chance the bank defaults on its bonds within 5 years. Some clients have used the rise in the CDS this year to ask questions, negotiate prices or use competitors, the people said, asking to remain anonymous discussing confidential conversations. Story continues Credit Suisse declined to comment via a company spokesman. Some prominent figures took to Twitter over the weekend to dismiss some of the rumors prompted by the widened CDS spread as scaremongering. Saba Capital Managements Boaz Weinstein tweeted take a deep breath and compared the situation to when Morgan Stanleys CDS was twice as wide in 2011 and 2012. Koerner, named CEO in late July, has had to deal with market speculation, banker exits and capital doubts as he seeks to set a path forward. The lender is currently finalizing plans that will likely see sweeping changes to its investment bank and may include cutting thousands of jobs over a number of years, Bloomberg has reported. Koerners memo was the second straight Friday missive as speculation over the beleaguered banks future increases. Analysts at KBW estimated that the firm may need to raise 4 billion Swiss francs ($4 billion) of capital even after selling some assets to fund any restructuring, growth efforts and any unknowns. Credit Suisses market capitalization has dropped to around 9.5 billion Swiss francs, meaning any share sale would be highly dilutive to longtime holders. The market value was above 30 billion francs as recently as March 2021. Bank executives have noted that the firms 13.5% CET1 capital ratio at June 30 was in the middle of the planned range of 13% to 14% for 2022. The firms 2021 annual report said that its international regulatory minimum ratio was 8%, while Swiss authorities required a higher level of about 10%. The KBW analysts were the latest to draw comparisons to the crisis of confidence that shook Deutsche Bank AG six years ago. Then, the German lender was facing broad questions about its strategy as well as near-term concerns about the cost of a settlement to end a US probe related to mortgage-backed securities. Deutsche Bank saw its credit-default swaps climb, its debt rating downgraded and some clients step back from working with it. The stress eased over several months as the German firm settled for a lower figure than many feared, raised about 8 billion euros ($7.8 billion) of new capital and announced a strategy revamp. Still, what the bank called a vicious circle of declining revenue and rising funding costs took years to reverse. There are differences between the two situations. Credit Suisse doesnt face any one issue on the scale of Deutsche Banks $7.2 billion settlement, and its key capital ratio of 13.5% is higher than the 10.8% that the German firm had six years ago. The stress Deutsche Bank faced in 2016 resulted in the unusual dynamic where the cost of insuring against losses on the lenders debt for one year surpassed that of protection for five years. Credit Suisses one-year swaps are still significantly cheaper than five-year ones. Credit Suisse Group CDS Widens 42 Bps: 12 Signals Since Sept. 16 Last week, Credit Suisse said its working on possible asset and business sales as part of its strategic plan which will be unveiled at the end of October. The bank is exploring deals to sell its securitized products trading unit, is weighing the sale of its Latin American wealth management operations excluding Brazil, and is considering reviving the First Boston brand name, Bloomberg has reported. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2022 Bloomberg L.P. Five years ago, a reputed Miami gang member named David Paneque finished a decade-long prison sentence for stabbing a man during a robbery. He was ordered deported to his native Cuba, but the island wouldnt accept him, so he was released in Miami on probation. Now Paneque, 32, is headed back to prison for life after he was arrested and accused of coldly shooting a friend, a murder captured on stunningly clear surveillance video. A judge late last week sentenced Paneque to life in prison for violating probation for the 2007 stabbing of man outside a West Kendall restaurant. Circuit Judge Thomas Rebull on Friday ruled he violated his probation by getting arrested in the March 24, 2019, murder of Leandro Lopez atop a West Miami-Dade strip mall. Paneque is still awaiting trial on first-degree murder charges, and faces the possibility of the death penalty if convicted. Paneques case, first reported on by the Miami Herald in 2019, highlighted the thorny and politically sensitive issue of deportations to Cuba. David Paneque, 29, is accused of murdering Leandro Lopez, 31, on March 24, 2019, at a West Miami-Dade strip mall. In recent years, Cuba had started accepting more deportees, although it was still a trickle. But over the past year, Cuba has stopped accepting flights of deportees, even as a record number of Cubans fleeing oppression and economic ruin on the island worsened by the pandemic have crossed into the United States through Mexico. READ MORE: Cuba has stopped accepting deportations of its nationals from the U.S., ICE says Deportations overall have dropped significantly under President Joe Biden, although theres been a record number of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border and seeking asylum. The wave of migrants had become a rallying point for Republicans, with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis administration transporting a group of mostly Venezuelan asylum seekers to Marthas Vineyard, Massachusetts, in what critics have decried as a crass political stunt. Stretching back decades, there are over 40,000 Cubans in the United States facing orders of removal for convictions of crimes or immigration violations. But with Cuba declining to accept most deportees, most of those are living freely under orders of supervision, which require them to check in at least once a year. Story continues That included Paneque, who even joked about it with Miami-Dade homicide detectives before his 2019 arrest on a murder charge. Where are they going to send me? Cuba doesnt want me, Paneque told Detective Juan Segovia. They dont want me here. They dont want me there. According to police, Paneque robbed a man at knifepoint outside a West Kendall restaurant in November 2007. During the violent struggle, the man was stabbed multiple times and airlifted to a hospital trauma center, according to an arrest report. Paneque whose street name at the time was Psycho, according to arrest records was later caught trying to cash the mans checks. At the time, he was also on probation on a conviction for carrying a concealed weapon. Though a teenager at the time, he was charged as an adult, and sentenced to 10 years in prison for attempted murder and armed robbery. Soon after, Immigration and Customers Enforcement (ICE) issued a press release announcing that Paneque was one of more than 300 violent street gang members who had been arrested as part of a national crackdown on gangs. ICE described him as a Cuban national who was amenable for removal based on a criminal convictions. But that didnt happen. Instead, he was released from Florida prison in 2017 and placed on state probation and immigration supervision. Lopez was gunned down in March 2019 atop a parking garage in West Miami-Dade; surveillance footage showed that Lopez begged for his life before Paneque gunned him down, took something off of his body and drove off in a truck, prosecutors say. A grand jury later indicted Paneque for first-degree murder, armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. PRAGUE (Reuters) -The Czech Republic widened a warning for its citizens to leave Russia on Monday following Moscow's mobilisation orders last month, the Foreign Ministry said. The Czech government had already warned against travel to Russia and urged citizens there to leave in February after the country's invasion of Ukraine. On Monday, the ministry expanded its warning, saying Czechs simultaneously holding Russian citizenship faced risks after a mobilisation call in September, a ministry spokeswoman said. "Citizens of the Czech Republic who also hold Russian citizenship should bear in mind that if they are on the territory of the Russian Federation, they are perceived by Russian authorities primarily as citizens of the Russian Federation," the ministry said on its website. "The Czech Embassy in Moscow cannot provide them with adequate, full consular protection." The ministry also newly warned about the inability to use bank cards issued in the Czech Republic in Russia due to sanctions. The Czech Republic has been one of Ukraine's biggest supporters, sending military aid to Kyiv, and it has also taken in hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees. The country stopped issuing visas for Russians, apart from for humanitarian issues, on Feb. 24, the day of the invasion, which Moscow has called a "special military operation". (Reporting by Jason Hovet and Jan Lopatka; editing by Philippa Fletcher) A Dalton man has been charged with murder after police said he beat his girlfriend until she was unconscious at their home. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Rachael Schaefer, 40, died Monday after being injured in a domestic violence incident on Friday. Justin Pippen, 44, who friends identified on social media as her fiance, has been charged with homicide, aggravated assault, aggravated battery and aggravated sexual battery. TRENDING STORIES: Police said Pippen attacked Schaefer at their home on Liddell Street on Friday and then called 911 for help. One officers got there, they found Schaefer not breathing. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Pippen was arrested at the scene and taken to the Whitfield County jail. His charges were upgrade Monday after Schaefer died. A dentist removing wisdom teeth. (Getty Images file photo) SINGAPORE Toh Yi Lin, 24, was having a regular procedure while under general anaesthesia to extract all four wisdom teeth in 2019. But nearing the end of her surgery, she developed a rare case of malignant hyperthermia, a severe reaction to certain drugs used for anaesthesia, and died three hours later despite efforts to resuscitate her. In findings released on Monday (3 October), a coroner ruled Toh's death as an unfortunate medical misadventure, according to a report by CNA. Toh was first seen at the National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS) on 8 August 2018, after being referred there from Ang Mo Kio polyclinic. She complained of severe pain in the upper and lower right side of her mouth during a review at the NDCS on 23 April 2019. Examinations suggested that the pain could be due to an affected wisdom or necrotic tooth. Three other wisdom tooth were also assessed to be causing her pain. To remove them, Toh chose to undergo surgery under general anaesthesia, according to the findings. On 8 May 2019, she was admitted to hospital where a nurse ran through a checklist to assess her general condition, drug allergies and other facets of her medical history. An anaesthetist for the surgery also went through a pre-anaesthetic assessment with Toh. According to the assessment, she had past medical history of high cholesterol, a high body mass index of 30.5 with a weight of 73.5kg and a condition called hidradenitis suppurativa, which causes small and painful lumps to form under the skin. Toh had no known drug allergy and had undergone two uneventful surgeries under general anaesthesia previously. She had no family history of malignant hyperthermia. The anaesthetist took a set of Toh's vital signs before administering the general anaesthesia for the surgery, and they were normal. While uneventful for the first 90 minutes of the surgery, Toh showed signs of mild hypercapnia, or a rise in the concentration of carbon dioxide. The surgery was completed at 10.20am with the supply of anaesthetic gas discontinued. Story continues Toh was given oxygen ventilation as her mild hypercapnia began increasing in severity and she showed reduced oxygen saturation. She did not wake up at 10.30am despite discontinuation of anaesthetic gas supply and had a fever of 42 degrees Celsius. She died at 1.31pm that same day. An autopsy certified her cause of death as consistent with malignant hyperthermia, which may manifest at any time during anaesthesia, CNA reported. No other causes of death were detected and the coroner concluded that there is no basis to suspect foul play. Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube. latinos for trump photo NurPhoto / Contributor/Getty Images Support for the Democratic Party among Latino voters has been cut in half over the past decade, according to NBC News/ Telemundo poll results released on Sunday, Politico reports. Democrats still have a 21-point lead over Republicans for this key demographic, but Republicans have been gaining support among Latino voters since the 2020 election. According to the poll, which surveyed 1,000 registered Latino voters nationwide, 54 percent said they preferred Democrats to maintain control of Congress, compared with 44 percent who favored Republicans. The 21-point difference has shrunk from the 42 percent disparity reported in Oct. 2012, according to NBC News/Telemundo poll records. The decline in Democrats' lead in party preference has been steady the gap was 26 points in Oct. 2020, 34 points in Nov. 2018, and 38 points in Oct. 2016, per Politico. Among those polled, differences in opinion among gender lines, religious affiliation, party preference, and geographic location also stood out. The survey answers varied greatly "between Latino men and Latina women, between Latino Democrats and Latino Republicans, between Catholic and non-Catholic Latinos, and between Latinos from California and those from Florida and Texas," NBC News reports. Regarding critical issues going into the midterm elections, most surveyed voters disagreed with the overturning of Roe v. Wade. However, the results varied considerably according to religious affiliation, with most Latino evangelical Christian voters approving the end of federal abortion rights while most Latino Catholic voters disapproved. The NBC News/Telemundo poll surveyed 1,000 Latino registered voters between Sept. 17-26 via landline, cell phone, and text messages. The poll had a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percentage points. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing Ukrainian troops take full control of Lyman while Russian media ramps up recriminations Photo: The Canadian Press The newest member of the British Columbia legislature, Elenore Sturko (right), elected last month in Surrey South byelection, is sworn in by clerk Kate Ryan-Lord at the legislature in Victoria, Monday, Oct.3, 2022. The clerk says Sturko is the first politician pledging allegiance to King Charles. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Dirk Meissner Politicians at British Columbias legislature are celebrating the first pledge to the King for a newly elected member and are recognizing whats expected to be the last session as premier for John Horgan. The seven-week fall sitting started today with the swearing-in of Liberal Elenore Sturko, who was elected last month in the Surrey South byelection. Legislature clerk Kate Ryan-Lloyd told those gathered for the swearing-in ceremony that Sturko is the first elected official in Canada to pledge allegiance to King Charles since the recent death of the queen. Horgan announced last June that because of health reasons he would leave his post as premier in December when the New Democrats choose a new party leader, and he would not run in the next provincial election expected in October 2024. The session starts as the New Democrat government faces criticism for health-care issues, including emergency care in rural communities and a shortage of family doctors. Former attorney general David Eby and environmental activist Anjali Appadurai are contesting the NDP leadership race. House Democratic leaders will face heavy political pressure and a tight time crunch to vote this year on election reform recommendations soon to arrive from lawmakers investigating last years attack on the U.S. Capitol. The Jan. 6 select committee is charged with proposing improvements to the nations election system in an effort to reinforce the peaceful transfer of power, which came under threat by a pro-Trump mob after his 2020 defeat. The recommendations are expected to arrive after the Nov. 8 midterm elections, as part of the panels final report on its findings. That will leave Democratic leaders with a short window to draft legislation, rally support and send the reforms to the Senate all in a lame-duck session when theyll also face a crucial deadline to extend federal funding and prevent a government shutdown. Complicating their task, the House is widely expected to change hands next year, shifting all the legislative decisions to Republican leaders who, in defense of former President Trump, have condemned the select committee from its inception and are certain to ignore any recommendations the panel proposes. As Congress left Washington last week for the long election recess, the combination of factors was already stirring a sense of urgency from rank-and-file Democrats, who want their leaders to prioritize the panels recommendations at years end, before theyre buried by a potential GOP takeover. I dont know what their thought process is. But whatever it is, we actually need to get it done, said Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.). Because if the House flips, which I dont think it will, but if it does, Kevin McCarthys not going to do anything to protect this country. The House is scheduled to be in session for 17 days during the lame-duck period, now scheduled to end on Dec. 15. The year-end calendar is notoriously fluid, as leaders are frequently forced to keep lawmakers in Washington to finalize must-pass legislation. This year, the must-pass bill is a nascent package to extend government funding, which would otherwise expire at the end of Dec. 16. Story continues Some Democrats said the lame-duck window allows plenty of time to consider the select committee election proposals and even win the Senate support needed to enact them into law. We have two months. What? Is there anything more important than making sure we defend our democracy? said Rep. David Cicilline (D-Calif.). We have no option, in my view, other than to act swiftly as soon as those recommendations are reported. We have to get this done before we adjourn. Others voiced heavy doubts that Senate Democrats could find enough Republican support to overcome a GOP filibuster. I would think that [House] leadership would want to vote on them, since the committees done such great work, said Rep. John Yarmuth (D-Ky.), chairman of the House Budget Committee. But Senate passage? I cant imagine, he said. Members of the Jan. 6 committee, meanwhile, said it remains unclear if their recommendations will be considered at all in November or December. We dont know, said Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.). Maybe some of them. A failure to send election reforms to President Bidens desk would be a huge disappointment to Democrats, voting rights groups and other good-government activists, particularly with Trump eyeing another run at the White House in 2024. Still, passing the reforms through the House would also provide Democrats with ammunition to criticize Republicans for opposing efforts to bolster democratic institutions, even after the threat of Jan. 6, 2021. Congress is already moving on one piece of the reform effort, the Electoral Count Act, which increases the lawmaker threshold needed to challenge state election results and clarifies that the vice presidents role in formalizing those results is merely ceremonial. Different versions of the bill have already been passed by both the House and Senate, and the chambers are hoping to iron out the distinctions during the lame-duck session. Investigators have also hinted at proposals to stiffen the criminal code to punish presidents who pressure other factions of government, like state election offices and the Justice Department two prongs of Trumps effort to remain in power after his defeat. Outside of the committee, theres been a push to adopt a resolution that leans on the 14th Amendment to disqualify presidents who actively seek to subvert elections. And Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) indicated last week that he wants to clarify elements of the 25th Amendment, which seeks to guarantee a continuity of governance in the event a president becomes incapacitated. In the days after the Jan. 6 attack, several members of Trumps cabinet had weighed whether to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office. Raskin, an expert in constitutional law, said that, as written, Its not even clear whether they could have or not. There are a lot of provisions in the 25th Amendment that need to be clarified, Raskin told reporters Friday outside the Capitol. The ultimate fate of the reform recommendations could hinge on the timing of the committees final report, which will contain them. Chairman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) has said there will be an interim report issued before November, with the final report to come afterwards. But when it will arrive remains unclear. Given the limited calendar of the lame-duck session, some lawmakers are hoping it arrives quickly after the House returns to Washington on Nov. 14. I hope they give us time, and I hope we act on it, said a Democrat who spoke anonymously to discuss a sensitive topic. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) said the midterm results will be a key factor in installing some urgency to the process. The lame duck is actually the last chance to enact these reforms, he said, because Republicans may not be as disposed to voting for them. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Hurricane Ian slammed right into Lee County, Florida, last week, decimating coastal towns and killing dozens of people. Now, questions are arising about whether county officials gave enough advance notice to residents who should have evacuated before the storms landfall last Wednesday. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has defended county officials, saying that they were following the data and noted that the storm was originally forecast to make landfall farther north in the state. But some reporting has suggested that even keeping in mind the shifting forecast, evacuation orders may have been issued later than recommended by the countys emergency management plan. Hurricane Ian made landfall on Wednesday afternoon, with the centre of the storm hitting right near the northern edge of Lee County home to cities like Fort Myers and Cape Coral. During the weekend before the storm hit, Hurricane Ians path looked more like it was heading for areas closer to the Florida panhandle or the Tampa Bay area. But as the storm crept closer to the Florida coast, the forecast started shifting more and more toward the south. By Monday, two days before landfall, the National Hurricane Centre forecast between four to seven feet (1.2 2.1 metres) of storm surge along much of the Lee County coast. The countys emergency management plan, approved in 2018, recommends an evacuation of Zone A the lowest-lying and most coastal areas when there is a 10 per cent chance of a six-foot (1.8-metre) storm surge. No evacuations were ordered in Lee County on Monday. But by Tuesday, the forecast had shifted even further south, and it looked clear that Hurricane Ian was heading toward a direct hit on southwest Florida, with between 8 to 12 ft (2.4-3.7 m) of storm surge. That day, Lee County officials ordered evacuations for Zones A, B and C the three most vulnerable zones to potential storm surge flooding. The Independent has reached out to a Lee County spokesperson for comment on the timing of the evacuations. Story continues Speaking to CNN over the weekend, Mr DeSantis noted that the track of the storm looked to be headed farther north earlier in the week as he stood by the countys decision. In addition, Kevin Guthrie, the head of Floridas Division of Emergency Management said at a press conference that county officials made the best decision with the information they had at the time. FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell has also reportedly defended the county response. Just 72 hours before landfall, the Fort Myers and Lee County area were not even in the cone of the hurricane, Ms Criswell told ABC News on Sunday. And as it continued to move south, the local officials immediately, as soon as they knew that they were in that threat zone, made the decisions to evacuate and get people to safety. Parts of Lee County, especially around Fort Myers, have been completely devastated by the hurricane. And while many people in the storms path did evacuate ahead of time, some did not. Dozens of people have been marked dead from the hurricane as rescue teams and officials continue to search for victims and assess the damage from the storm. More than 50 per cent of customers in the county were still without power as of Monday, according to poweroutage.us. Disney said it stopped licensing content for Russia back in March Disney has closed its Russian website, pages on social media and removed videos from Russian-language YouTube channels. In particular, the company removed the sites disney.ru and channel.disney.ru. When going to these pages, Russian users are now offered to choose another country from a list. Read also: Wizz Air subsidiary to resume Moscow flights Disney also removed Russia from the list of partner countries and deleted pages on local social networks VK and Odnoklassniki, as well as on Twitter. In addition, from the YouTube channels of the Russian divisions of Disney Animated Series, Good Morning Mickey and Short Animation all videos were removed, except for broadcast recordings. Videos from the Russian YouTube channels of Disney and StarWars were also removed. Read also: Ukrainian company to provide AI-generated Darth Vader voice for Disney Disney has stopped renewing licenses for its content to all Russian streaming platforms. The company announced back in March that Disney was ceasing all business in Russia. The company suspended content and product licensing, cruise lines, National Geographic magazine and local content production. Earlier it was reported that the streaming service Netflix had bought the rights to show a large package of Ukrainian films. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Former President Donald Trump. AP Photo/Joe Maiorana, File Former president Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against CNN on Monday. The lawsuit accuses the network of defamation for labeling Trump's claims of voter fraud as baseless. The lawsuit seeks at least $475 million in damages and a jury trial, court documents show. Former President Donald Trump filed a defamation lawsuit against CNN, accusing the network of defaming him "with a series of ever-more scandalous, false, and defamatory labels of 'racist,' 'Russian lackey,' 'insurrectionist,' and ultimately 'Hitler,'" according to the lawsuit. The former president threatened a suit against the network earlier this year for "defamatory" reporting. In July, Trump sent the network a 282-page letter threatening a defamation lawsuit and demanding an apology from the network. The letter also asked the network to retract "numerous articles and televised transmissions" within 10 days. Trump's lawyers filed the lawsuit Monday in federal court in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is seeking at least $475 million in punitive damages, according to the suit. The lawsuit also seeks a trial by jury, according to court documents. "Beyond simply highlighting any negative information about the plaintiff and ignoring all positive information about him, CNN has sought to use its massive influence purportedly as a 'trusted' news source to defame the plaintiff in the minds of its viewers and readers for the purpose of defeating him politically," Trump's lawyers wrote in the lawsuit. CNN declined to comment when reached by Insider. A lawyer for Donald Trump did not immediately return Insider's request for comment on Monday. The lawsuit alleges that CNN defamed Trump by repeatedly calling his claims of voter fraud baseless. The suit accuses the network of undertaking a smear campaign against Trump and hurled "a barrage of negative associations and innuendos" at him "broadcasting commentary that he is like a cult leader, a Russian lackey, a dog whistler to white supremacists, and a racist," according to court documents. Story continues The complaint says that CNN's reporting has "consistently fed a narrative to denounce" Trump's "legitimacy and competency," court documents show. "By comparing the Plaintiff to violent dictators and repeatedly using inflammatory language, such as "Trump's big lie," CNN knowingly made false and defamatory statements about the Plaintiff, or at the very least, made those statements with reckless disregard for their truth or falsity, thereby acting with actual malice," the lawsuit says. Read the original article on Business Insider WASHINGTON Donald Trump suggested to a book author that he turned over correspondence with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un to the National Archives upon leaving the White House, although the Archives indicated that was not true because they later requested Trump-Kim letters as part of an investigation into Trump's withholding of classified information. Asked if he was able to take the Kim letters when he left office in early 2021, Trump said: "No, I think that has the I think thats in the archives, but most of it is in the Archives. But the Kim Jong Un letters, we have incredible things. I have incredible letters with other leaders. The comment came during a Sept. 16, 2021, interview of Trump by Maggie Haberman, a New York Times reporter who has written a new book on the 45th president. "Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America," is to be published on Tuesday. The investigation:Congressional committee: National Archives still not certain it has all Trump records 'Very warm:'Donald Trump says he got another 'beautiful' letter from North Korea's Kim Jong Un Correspondence between Trump and Kim described by the ex-U.S. president as "beautiful letters" was among the items included in 15 boxes that Trump submitted to the National Archives in January, a year after Trump left office. The Archives later said it believed Trump retained other documents he should have turned over to the National Archives as well, including classified information. That complaint led to the Justice Department search and seizure of documents at his home in Mar-a-Lago, Fla., in August. A beautiful letter:Text of President Trump's letter to North Korea's Kim Jong Un Mar-a-Lago:Scribbled notes, classified materials and golf carts: Here's how the millions of White House documents and artifacts should be archived The search revealed the existence of a grand jury investigation into whether Trump illegally took classified documents with him when he exited the White House on Jan. 20, 2021. Story continues The National Archives released a May 6, 2021, memo to Trumps lawyers referencing the missing documents, including the Trump-Kim letters. The original correspondence between President Trump and North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un were not transferred to us, the memo said; it is our understanding that in January 2021, just prior to the end of the Administration, the originals were put in a binder for the President, but were never returned to the Office of Records Management for transfer to NARA (the The National Archives and Records Administration). It is essential that these original records be transferred to NARA as soon as possible. Trump has denied wrongdoing and denounced the investigation as politically motivated. He is also under investigation in Atlanta as well as Washington, D.C., over efforts to overturn his election loss to President Joe Biden and the subsequent insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021. In the interview in September of 2021, when Haberman asked Trump if he had taken any mementos with him, Trump sad, "nothing of great urgency, no." He then brought up the Kim letters: I have great things though, you know. The letters, the Kim Jong Un letters. I had many of them." When Haberman said "you were able to take those with you? Trump demurred and said he believed the Archives had possession of them. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump suggests he gave Kim Jong Un letters to Archives (he didn't) Crispin Blunt. (Getty Images) A Conservative MP has said the government needs to rethink its approach on the criminalisation of drugs, and suggested substances like heroin should be legalised. At an Institute for Economic Affairs event labelled: UK Drug Reform: Is it time to rethink drug policy? at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, panellists debated whether the war on drugs was working - and discussed the medicinal potential of illegal substances like cannabis and magic mushrooms. Crispin Blunt, the MP for Reigate, argued that illegal drugs should be legalised to enable medical research into the substances - and also to shut down the illegal drug trade which fuels crime and poses health risks as they are unregulated. He also argued against an authoritarian approach on illegal drugs, arguing society cannot "arrest yourself out of the drugs problem. It would just be more intelligent, probably, to try and manage that process in a way where you are enabling people to make informed decisions to understand the risk - and not driving them to become part of the illegal criminal supply chain outside society, said Blunt. When asked if it should be legal for a consenting adult to shop online to buy opium or a lump of crack cocaine based on this reasoning, Blunt said it could be made available legally in a regulated environment. That would be for the regulators [to come up with the rules] that the state should then apply around that particular drug, said Blunt. It might be that you would allow people access to heroin - legal access to heroin - but youd insist they take it under medical supervision in a particular facility - so that you can ensure that the drugs they are taking is actually heroin. Blunt also said politicians that take a singular drugs are bad approach are doing the public a disservice. Weve got to take the fear out of the discussion about this issue, he said. Because if it is simply dealt with as a headline... Drugs are bad, they are all banned and then we turn our eyes way from the consequences of that as a policy - which are truly [shocking] and dont engage with the detail, then frankly we are unfit for office. Story continues The MP lamented that the usage of medicinal cannabis in the UK has been almost non-existent, and said it is urgent more research is done into the health benefits it can have for those with disabilities. Last week, it was announced that a pioneering 'Heroin Assisted Treatment' programme in Middlesbrough was to close due to a lack of funding, three years after it opened. The programme, the first of its kind in England, gave entrenched heroin addicts two daily doses of diamorphine and had been hailed as having a dramatic impact on the local community in its first year. Niamh Eastwood, Executive Director of Release, the UK's national centre of expertise on drugs and drugs law, described the decision as "stupid". Blunts remarks came hours after group of Conservative police and crime commissioners argued at the conference that cannabis should be reclassified from a Class B to a Class A drug. Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick, said cannabis was a gateway drug and was driving harm in communities. If you look at the young people in treatment, the number one drug they are in treatment for is cannabis, said Sidwick. In Scotland, where health is a devolved issue, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh has recommended the introduction of a drugs consumption room and a heroin-assisted treatment programme in all major centres in Scotland. The organisation said in March 2021 that serious consideration should be given to decriminalising drug use to help tackle the national emergency of drug-related deaths. The warning signs had abounded: The suspect had already been probed by federal prosecutors, who were so concerned that they referred him to the FBI. Multiple descriptions had painted him as callous and openly racist, a pattern that culminated with a killing Tuesday for which he and his brother have been arrested. Were not talking about a school shooter or a hardened member of a gang or anti-government militia but about Michael Sheppard, until a few days ago the warden of the notorious West Texas Detention Facility, a privately run ICE detention center with a history of abuse toward the people in its custody. The 60-year-old Sheppard and his twin, Mark, have been charged by authorities in Texas with killing one person and wounding another in a potential hate crime Tuesday night. According to surviving witnesses, who along with the victims were recently arrived migrants walking along a rural road in a county outside El Paso, the Sheppards drove up to them in a truck and hurled insults before Mike stepped out of the car and opened fire, killing a man immediately and sending a woman to the hospital. Its not the first time that Mike Sheppard has come to the attention of law enforcement; as warden at West Texas, 30 men from Somalia accused him of directing his staff to beat and demean them, and sometimes joining in himself. A report documenting his abuse was found credible enough for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Texas to forward it to the FBI for further investigation. This was in addition to many other hazards and negligence identified by an internal ICE monitor. Given the ambient inhumanity of many detention centers, particularly those run by private companies, these abuses are often ignored or theyre noted without any further consequence. In this case, they were warning signs for a man who authorities now say has committed a deadly act. If someone had only intervened sooner, the still-unnamed victim might be alive today. The granddaughter of an elderly Asian woman in Daly City, California, is speaking out after her grandmother was assaulted and robbed of her life savings by three men pretending to be utility workers. Surveillance footage at the 70-year-old womans home shows a man wearing a construction worker vest, a hard hat and holding a laptop. He was pretending to be someone from PG&E, to try and trick my grandmother into letting him to the house, Skylar, the victims granddaughter, told NBC Bay Area. Two other male accomplices went over a fence and into the backyard as the elderly woman opened the front door for the man pretending to be a utility worker. More from NextShark: Disabled Teen Dies Alone After His Father Was Quarantined Over Possible Coronavirus in China Skylar said her grandmother felt trapped and was screaming for help as they brutally beat her and dragged her chihuahua. The suspects ransacked the house and ran off with the womans jewelry as well as her life savings. The trio were caught on dash cam fleeing the scene. Skylar said her grandmother is traumatized and was taken to the hospital following the incident. This incident took away her sense of safety and security, Skylar said, adding that the suspects broke into two other homes in the neighborhood before attacking her grandmother. More from NextShark: Sex Workers to Get Part of $1 Trillion Stimulus Package in Japan They attacked her inside her own home, where she thought she was safe. And that is something I really want to emphasize because these men are cowards. They are targeting the elderly, she continued. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, Daly City police said. While Skylar told KRON4 that her grandmother is the most hardworking, shes the most resilient, strongest person I know, she believes she was targeted for being an older, Asian woman who was an easy person to target. More from NextShark: 'Being Taiwanese isnt a political choice': Backlash causes Pew to reverse Taiwanese-as-Chinese decision A fundraising campaign has been created on GoFundMe for the recovery of Skylars grandmother, according to ABC News. Story continues More from NextShark: Toronto Man Charged For Three Alleged Hate Crimes at Subway Stations Featured Image via KRON4 Wawa gas station. Jeffrey Greenberg/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Welcome back to The Election Recap, your one-stop shop for the last seven days of midterms news. Let's get into it: Doug himself a hole State senator and Republican nominee for Pennsylvania governor Doug Mastriano found himself in headlines again last week, after it was revealed he once suggested that women in violation of his proposed abortion ban should be charged with murder. NBC News was first to report on the previously uncovered comments, which were made during a 2019 interview with Pennsylvania radio station WITF. The legislation in question, for which Mastriano was a co-sponsor, would have banned abortion around six weeks of pregnancy; and when the radio show's host asked the state senator if a woman who violated the ban would be charged with, say, murder, Mastriano replied, "Is that a human being? Is that a little boy or girl? If it is, it deserves equal protection under the law." "So you're saying yes?" the host responded. "Yes, I am," Mastriano said. Mastriano has recently sought to downplay his past support for strict abortion laws, given the issue's importance this election cycle, NBC News writes; but still, Democrats were all too happy to seize on the past remarks as evidence of what the Republican might do if he wins the governor's mansion, the Times adds. Mastriano's opponent, Attorney General Josh Shapiro, has said he supports current Pennsylvania abortion law, which outlaws the procedure after 24 weeks of pregnancy with exceptions. Notably, the Pennsylvania Legislature is likely to remain under GOP control post-Nov. 8, "making it a strong possibility that Mastriano would be able to sign further restrictions into law should he win this fall," NBC News writes. In the nick of time President Biden on Friday signed a stopgap funding bill to keep the government running through Dec. 16, narrowly avoiding a government shutdown that was set to take effect at midnight. The House passed the legislation earlier that day, after it cleared the Senate 75-25 on Thursday (much to former President Donald Trump's chagrin). The package notably punts any difficult spending decisions until after the midterms, offering leaders more time to negotiate a full-year funding deal. It otherwise includes $12 billion in Ukraine aid, among other provisions. The plan was the subject of some drama earlier last week, after Senate Republicans and some Democrats threatened to pull their support over a deal Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) had cut with Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va). Apparently, Schumer had promised Manchin that, in exchange for the West Virginia lawmaker's vote on Democrats' flagship spending package, Schumer would see to it that the funding bill included a section designed to speed up permitting for energy-related infrastructure projects. Given the opposition, Manchin ultimately agreed to strip the provision from the bill, allowing it to advance. Now, both parties can rest easy, knowing they successfully avoided the blame for a shutdown ahead of the already-contentious midterm elections. Story continues Debate szn Texas gubernatorial candidates Gov. Greg Abbott (R) and Beto O'Rourke took to the debate stage Friday night, in a verbal match-up multiple outlets seem to agree did little to alter the trajectory of the highly-watched race. At a university performance hall in the Texas border city of Edinburg, the pair went back and forth (without an audience) on topics like gun violence, immigration, crime, and abortion, writes The New York Times. "Abbott labeled O'Rourke a flip-flopper while O'Rourke continually emphasized that Abbott has had eight years to fix problems such as shoring up the state's shaky power grid and school violence and hasn't been able to get it done," adds The Houston Chronicle. Despite having no clear winner, the outcome of the debate appears most likely to benefit Abbott, "who has been leading in the polls and has commanded a larger campaign war chest going into the final stretch," the Times adds. Meanwhile, Connecticut and Oregon held gubernatorial debates last week, as well, while Maryland's Republican nominee Dan Cox addressed a Morgan State University forum that his opponent Wes Moore declined to attend, per NBC News. Wah wahhhh Bet you didn't have this on your midterms bingo card: Wawa, the popular convenience store and gas station chain, has accused New Jersey congressional candidate Matt Jenkins of ripping off an archived version of its longtime goose trademark in his campaign logo. Company executives have since issued a cease-and-desist, requesting that Jenkins refrain from using the "Wawa Goose logo or any logo that is confusingly similar." "If Wawa allows other uses such as the use by your campaign it runs the very real risk that its trademarks will be weakened," the letter continues. "As a New Jerseyan, familiar with Wawa's reputation among and relationship with the public, we trust that is not something that you would want to occur." In Wawa's view, the pair of flying geese featured in Jenkin's campaign logo are uncomfortably similar to those of the chain's 1990-2004 trademark, thus suggesting Wawa is perhaps associated with or sponsoring his campaign, Politico notes. But Jenkins maintains that the resemblance is just a coincidence: "It is only a coincidence [the logos] are similar. Anyone who has been to my district has seen geese and seagulls," he wrote on Twitter. Ultimately, Jenkins told Politico he was unsure if he'd update the logo. "This is going to cost me money to change," he said. "Everybody knows my finances. I don't have any. To go out and reprint my signs, all my literature." The Democratic nominee will challenge longtime incumbent Rep. Chris Smith in November, and is expected to lose, Politico adds. Hanging Chads: "A stunning stat on Donald Trump's endorsed candidates." [CNN] Where Democrats might lose with minority voters this November. [WSJ] Less than half of Americans think midterms candidates should commit to accepting the results of their contests. [The Hill] Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen possibly exiting the Biden administration after the midterms. [Axios] Trump says McConnell has a "death wish" in voting for Democrats' bills and The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board is not pleased. [WSJ] The Times' Nate Cohn takes on the Democrats' chances of retaining the House. [NYT] Coming up Did somebody say debate season? Prepare this week for a Wednesday match-up between Kansas governor and Democratic nominee Laura Kelly and Republican Attorney General Derek Schmidt; a Thursday face-off between Arizona Senate candidates Blake Masters (R) and Sen. Mark Kelly (D); and a Friday debate between North Carolina Senate nominees Rep. Ted Budd (R) and challenger Cheri Beasley, per Politico. And if that weren't enough action for your week, just wait until the September jobs numbers drop on Friday. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing Ukrainian troops take full control of Lyman while Russian media ramps up recriminations Voters cast their ballots. Several Greater Columbus school districts have school levies on the general election ballot. New Albany-Plain, Upper Arlington, Worthington, Pickerington, Delaware City and Madison-Plains schools all have issues and levies on the Nov. 8 ballot. Absentee voting begins Oct. 12. New Albany-Plain Local Schools New Albany-Plain Local Schools will have a 1.75-mill levy on the ballot that would last for five years beginning this year if approved by voters. New Albany-Plain Local Schools treasurer Becky Jenkins said that city residents would pay $61.25 per $100,000 in home value as opposed to what theyre paying now at $62.33. New Albany:New Albany-Plain Local Schools voters will see 1.75-mill replacement levy in November The districts previous levy from 2017 is expiring after five years, so the new levy would continue to help with such things as repairs to parking lots and roofs; new school buses; technology infrastructure; and security upgrades to cameras. Our buildings are over 20 years old, Jenkins said. So because that levy is rolling off and we have 0.75-mills of bond debt that is expiring, now is the time for us to put this back on the ballot. Jenkins said that the 1.75-mill levy would bring in just over $2 million for the district for repairs and other improvements. Upper Arlington City Schools Upper Arlington City Schools will have a 6.9-mill operating levy on the ballot. The levy would increase the citys annual property taxes by around $241.50 per $100,000 of home valuation, district treasurer Andrew Geistfeld said. Homes valued at about $400,000 would amount to an additional $966 a year based on calendar year 2022 tax valuations. Upper Arlington:Upper Arlington Schools to seek 6.9-mill operating levy in November District spokesperson Karen Truett said the levy would generate around $16.189 million per year to help pay for operating expenses, such as teacher salaries, instructional and pupil support, technology and transportation. The levy also would help the district grow its budget reserve from 13% of its annual operating expenses to 17% of annual operating expenses. Story continues Worthington City Schools Worthington City Schools will send two issues to the ballot a packaged tax levy and bond issue, as well as a separate, additional tax levy. The packaged issue would include a $234 million bond levy and a 1.9-mill continuing permanent-improvements levy that would help fund building improvements to the districts two high schools. Worthington:Worthington Schools bond issue, PI levy, incremental levy headed to November ballot The bond issue would not only give both Thomas Worthington and Worthington Kilbourne high schools new facilities and amenities, but also upgrades to HVAC and roofing. There would also be improvements to district middle schools as a part of the first phase of its facilities master plan. The combined ballot issue would cost property owners an additional cost of $101.50 annually per $100,000 of home valuation. The additional incremental operating levy would start with an additional 2.9 mills in 2023, along with three 2.0-mill increments in the next three years. This would cost an additional $101.50 annually per $100,000, and then an additional $70 per $100,000 of home valuation each year from 2024-26. This levy would go towards district operating expenses. Our revenue is expected to flatten this year when the last installment of the levy that was approved in 2018 is realized, district Superintendent Trent Bowers wrote in a ThisWeek News column. Pickerington Local School District Pickerington has a 2.8-mill bond issue on the ballot that, if approved, would generate about $89.93 million plus the needed interest up to 37 years. The funds would allow the district to build a third junior high school that could accommodate 1,300 students and renovate Ridgevew Junior High Schools to convert it to a separate K-4th elementary school and 5th-6th grade middle school. This would create an eighth elementary school for 450 students and a fourth middle school for 450 students. Pickerington:Pickerington school board approves bond issue for November ballot If the bond issue passes, homeowners beginning in January 2023 would pay $1,053.15 per $100,000 of home value. An increase of 22% in home values would decrease overall effective mills by 13.37%; and the district expects effective mills for tax year 2022 to be paid in 2023 to be 30.09 mills. Passing the bond issue also will qualify the district for $75 million in future funding from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission for future needs at Tussing Elementary School, Harmon Middle School, Diley Middle School, Lakeview Junior High and North High School. Ultimately, at the end of the day, this bond issue is almost a two-for-one, said district treasurer Ryan Jenkins. Delaware City Schools Delaware City Schools has a 5.8-mill substitute renewal levy on the ballot. The district passed an emergency operating levy in 2017 for a five-year period to generate $6.2 million that expires at the end of this year, so its up for renewal, said Melissa Swearingen, the districts treasurer and chief financial officer. Property owners are currently paying about $203 annually for every $100,000 in valuation, and that rate would stay the same, Swearingen said. The levy would continue to generate $6.2 million dollars annually. Madison-Plains School levy Madison-Plains has a 2.5-mill permanent improvement renewal levy on the ballot. The original levy was passed in 1987 and it has been consistently renewed every five years. The renewal would generate an estimated $400,761 in annual revenue, said Todd Mustain, district treasurer. The permanent improvement levy allows the district to purchase technology and make upgrades to facilities such as roofs, parking lots, sewer plants, heating ventilation, and air conditioning and boilers, said district superintendent Chad Eisler. Columbus City Schools levy off ballot Columbus City Schools Board of Education voted at an August school board meeting to take the $680-million, maximum 35-year bond issue and a 4.7-mill permanent improvement levy off the ballot, saying it was a matter of economic timing. Columbus schools:Columbus City Schools district unveils plan to build five new schools for $297 million The board has not determined when but members have said they are committed to bringing the bond issue back on the ballot because it would cover Columbus City Schools' local share of the fourth phase of the district's facilities master plan. That plan calls for the district to build five new buildings in the next five years: two high schools, a middle school and two elementary schools. Information from ThisWeek News was used in this report. @megankhenry mhenry@dispatch.com @leem386 mylee@dispatch.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: School levies: Columbus-area districts asking voters for money Photo: BIV files. Passengers linger with luggage before boarding a flight at Vancouver International Airport The crush of air travellers through Vancouver International Airport (YVR) continued in September, signalling that the hard-hit aviation sector is returning to normalcy. Airport traffic this week is expected to be almost at pre-pandemic levels. The Vancouver Airport Authority (VAA) said in a statement that it expects an average of 66,114 passengers per day and a total of 462,804 passengers in the week ending October 10. Today and Friday are expected to be the busiest days this week, according to the VAA. In the same week in 2019, the airport welcomed an average of 66,256 passengers per day. That means that the airport this week is expecting its traffic level to be at nearly 99.8 per cent of what it was in the same week pre-pandemic. Peak travel season has now passed. Vancouver's main airport welcomed 1,838,322 passengers in September, which was nearly 85 per cent of the 2,168,162 travellers who travelled through the airport in September 2019. The airport year-to-date has welcomed approximately 14 million people, which is nearly 74 per cent of the approximately 19 million people who transited through the airport in the first nine months of 2019, according to VAA statistics. Airport data from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) holds that about 85.2 per cent of passengers travelling from YVR in September were screened within 15 minutes. Earlier this year, there were hours-long line-ups to get through security because of a shortage of security screening staff. CATSA subcontracts security screening at YVR to U.S.-based security giant Allied Universal, which has been rapidly hiring new workers. Opposition parties have protested against electoral bonds Electoral bonds were aimed at cleaning up the murky financing of India's political parties. Instead, they are being challenged in the country's top court as a "distortion of democracy". The Supreme Court is set to resume - after two years - hearing petitions questioning electoral bonds, which are interest-free financial instruments for making donations to political parties. Launched in 2018, these time-limited and interest-free bonds are issued in fixed denominations - 1,000 to 10 million rupees ($12.50 to $125,000) - and can be purchased from a state-owned bank during specific periods of time through the year. Citizens and firms are allowed to buy and donate these bonds to political parties, who can cash them within 15 days. Only registered political parties who have also secured not less than 1% of the votes polled in the last election to the parliament or a state assembly are eligible to receive these bonds. Electoral bonds worth $1.15bn have been sold in 19 tranches so far, according to the government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appears to be the main beneficiary, cornering three-quarters of the bonds in 2019-20, compared with just 9% for the main opposition Congress. More than 62% of the total income of seven national parties came from donations through electoral bonds in the same year, according to election watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR). Map The bonds were introduced to flush out illicit cash and make political financing more transparent. Critics believe it has done the opposite. They say the bonds are cloaked in secrecy. For one thing, there is no public record of who bought each bond and to whom the donation was made. That makes the bonds "unconstitutional and problematic" as taxpayers remain in the dark about the source of the donations, according to ADR. Also, critics say, the bonds are not entirely anonymous: since the state-owned bank has a record of both the donor and the recipient, the ruling government can easily access details and "use" the information to influence donors. "The bonds give an unfair advantage to the ruling party," says Jagdeep Chhokar, co-founder of ADR. Story continues When the bonds were first announced in 2017, India's Election Commission had said they would "compromise" electoral transparency. The central bank, the law ministry and a number of MPs had chimed in, saying the bonds would not stop illicit money being funnelled into politics. (The Election Commission flip-flopped a year later, and supported the bonds.) The courts have also deferred judgement on the bonds. "With electoral bonds, the government has essentially legislated opacity," says Milan Vaishnav of Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a Washington-based think tank. "Donors can make gifts of any size to recipients and neither side must publicly disclose the details of the transactions. If this is being advertised as 'transparency', it is truly a novel definition of the word," he adds. The 2019 general election was estimated to cost more than $7bn No-one is denying that India needs improved transparency in political financing. Elections are expensive and much of them are funded through private donations - the 2019 general election was estimated to have cost more than $7bn, second only to the US presidential elections. The growing size of the electorate - more than 900 million people were eligible to vote in the 2019 polls, up from fewer than 400,000 voters in 1952 - means candidates have to spend more money reaching out to voters. The three-tier system of governance - village, state and centre - means there are more elections. Polls are also intensely competitive. Political parties submit their income and expenditure statements to election authorities every year. Income from "unknown sources" - many say this would include the bonds - account for more than 70% of all income, according to ADR. Mr Vaishnav said that the bonds had "set the fight for campaign finance reform back by decades". Others such as Baijayant Jay Panda, a national vice-president of the BJP, differ. Electoral bonds represent a "solid progress" towards cleaner political funding, he told me. "Earlier, almost the entirety of political funding was in suitcases of cash, sometimes from extremely unsavoury sources," he said. Funding of political parties unquestionably needs to be legitimate, traceable and transparent, Mr Panda said. The bonds, he said, were "legitimate and achieve many of the objectives for transparency". "While an argument can be made there should be further reforms and even more transparency, it is simply ludicrous to claim that the bonds don't represent progress and are somehow worse than what existed earlier," he added. One way to get around this, Mr Vaishnav said, was a system where the bonds are allowed to continue but "only if accompanied by 100% transparency from all sides". This would, he believes, solve the most "egregious issues of opacity", but there are others that must also be addressed. These include the "possibility that donors could purchase bonds with white money [money earned legally or on which tax has been paid] and sell them to a third party buying in black money [money illegally obtained or not declared for tax purposes] who then transfers the bonds to a political party," according to Mr Vaishnav. Clearly, India's road to political finance reform is long - and tortuous. Elizabeth McCracken. Courtesy Image Elizabeth McCracken's new novel, The Hero of This Book, follows an author who visits London while mulling whether to write a memoir about her recently deceased mother. Below, McCracken recommends six short novels that tackle big subjects. Maud Martha by Gwendolyn Brooks (1953) This is a beautiful and odd book, a full portrait of its eponymous character elliptically told in 34 chapters. It's a novel by a poet that follows a logic of thought and sound. You almost can't believe how Brooks goes from one thought to another, but it's also clear the book could be no other way. Reading Brooks' sentences makes you feel smarter, capable of making those leaps. Buy it here. Utz by Bruce Chatwin (1988) Utz opens at the 1974 funeral of its title character, an obsessive porcelain collector. He is an enigma; most of this book is enigmatic. It's also one of the funniest books I know, but it's about the dangers of objects, how the love of collecting can bend a collector's morals into prison bars. Buy it here. A Prayer for the Dying by Stewart O'Nan (1999) This is one of my favorite novels of the past 25 years about a small Wisconsin town hemmed in by a diphtheria epidemic on one side and wildfire on the other. When I have students who want to write a book in the second person, this is where I steer them: the finest example I know, a tour de force. Buy it here. Mrs. Caliban by Rachel Ingalls (1982) I've loved this novel since I discovered it at the public library where I shelved books as a teenager. It's about an unhappy married woman who falls in love with a large amphibian. I reread it recently and found myself still as full of wonder as I was 40 years ago. Buy it here. A Lie Someone Told You About Yourself by Peter Ho Davies (2021) A married couple gets terrible news about a pregnancy, initiating a short, tender, often very funny book that's about the meaning of abortion in people's lives, and how no abortion is about a single person making a single decision on a single day. It's also about shame, parenthood, marriage, anxiety, and how all of us are long stories. Buy it here. Story continues The Passion by Jeanette Winterson (1987) I'm in awe of what Winterson fits into this tiny book: two different points of view, a meditation on telling stories, the sweep of history (one of the characters is a servant to Napoleon), and genuine surprise on every page. There's really no writer like Winterson, who works in a small space and yet somehow on an enormous canvas. Buy it here. This article was first published in the latest issue of The Week magazine. If you want to read more like it, you can try six risk-free issues of the magazine here. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing O'Rourke, Abbott face off in Texas gubernatorial debate At the Cannes Film Festival this summer, many attendees reveled at the "Top Gun" reboot, a throwback to the past. But on the sidelines a smaller crowd witnessed something more solemn: the possibility of a dark and tragic future. "Plan 75," a film by Japanese director Hayakawa Chie, explores the potential dangers of her country's aging society, where nearly one-in-three people are currently 65 or older. Set in a near-future dystopia, the film depicts a nation whose healthcare and pensions systems have become so overburdened by the elderly that the government aggressively markets a policy to pay for final bucket list items and then euthanize anyone over 75. While technically the stuff of science fiction, demographers say the film arrives at a time when humanity really is aging. The global fertility rate has decreased by half since 1960. In countries responsible for 85% of the world's gross domestic product the United States, Germany, Japan, even China and India births have fallen below the replacement rate, meaning that unless offset by immigration, population will begin to decline as older generations depart. The United Nations calculates the world population will now peak in 2084, before starting to fall by the century's end. An elderly man walks by an electronic stock board of a securities firm in Tokyo, Friday, Aug. 19, 2016. Japan is the world's oldest country, with 3-in-10 people over the age of 65. More: US, world population to shrink after midcentury, study suggests In a world where economies are designed around growth and social systems depend on the young supporting the old, forward thinkers are beginning to wonder what comes next. Consider Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and business magnate, now most prominent among their ranks. Population collapse due to low birth rates is a much bigger risk to civilization than global warming, Musk wrote on Twitter this summer. Mark these words. But is he right? Population concerns are nothing new For centuries, humans have pondered the ideal size of humanity. But experts warn such efforts usually end in folly, and that our species has within its grasp solutions to prosper whether populations rise or fall. Story continues It's up to us and how the world responds, said Lauren Johnston, a professor at the University of Sydney's China Studies Centre and economic demographer. For much of the last few centuries, those fretting about overpopulation have had the spotlight. In 1798, English scholar Thomas Malthus published an influential essay that laid out an idea known as the Malthusian trap, which holds that population growth inevitably exceeds food and other resources, leading to famine and poverty. The work inspired anxiety in England and helped lead to the first national census of England, Scotland and Wales. Such concerns echoed loudly in 1968, when Stanford University professor Paul Ehrlich and wife Anne Ehrlich published "The Population Bomb," a book that predicted global famine leading to the deaths of hundreds of millions of people within decades. But most experts say such predictions have not come to pass. Particularly in the past 50 years, a Green Revolution in agriculture has used new farming methods to reap more calories per acre of land, leading world hunger to decrease even as the population doubled. More: A new threat emerges for US lakes and rivers. Your lawn or toilet may be partly to blame. Although studies show such practices have created additional problems driving water pollution, contributing to climate change, and perhaps even decreasing the nutritional value of food Johnston points out that many nations are now facing the opposite of starvation. In most countries there has been a sufficiently productive response to population growth that there hasn't been a famine, Johnston said. Now there's obesity. Underpopulation on the horizon? As concern over having too many mouths to feed has waned, an opposing one has risen: too few people to work. That's an especially obvious worry in China, which infamously implemented a one-child policy in 1980 to address exponential population growth projections. Its current population of 1.4 billion remains the world's largest. But realizing the aging trajectory of its society, in 2016 China eliminated the policy and has also limited pensions and social programs for the elderly, Johnston said. Chinese children hold flags during a rehearsal prior to the opening of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) 2018 Beijing Summit on Sept. 3, 2018 in Beijing, China. Many other nations are or soon will be facing similar challenges. To maintain a steady population without immigration, a nation has to achieve a fertility rate of 2.1 children per woman, experts say. But the fertility rate is just 1.7 in China and Brazil, 1.5 across the European Union, and 0.8 in South Korea, the lowest of any country, according to the World Bank. The rate is 1.6 in the United States, where the population is still rising only due to longer lifespans and immigration, which is projected to outpace natural births by 2030. Globally, it's primarily African nations like Nigeria, where the fertility rate is 5.2, that are contributing to population growth. But as those nations develop, some experts expect fertility rates to fall as well, contributing to the possibility of unprecedented global population decline. There's never been anything close to a parallel, Johnston said. Some experts are ringing alarm bells on what that could mean for societies. In their book "Reversal: Ageing Societies, Waning Inequality, and an Inflation Revival," economists Charles Goodhart and Manoj Pradhan warn of mounting fiscal crises, "as medical, care, and pension expenditures all increase in our ageing societies." Nations could wind up burning the candle at both ends: as a higher percentage of people become retirees they require more public resources, while at the same time the taxable working population shrinks. Problems could be exacerbated as rates of Alzheimer's and other costly elder illnesses increase, while labor shortages create inflationary pressures. As countries face these challenges, their societies and politics could destabilize. "Our view of the future is not encouraging, but it is coherent and plausible," Goodhart and Pradhan write. So Musk is right? Not so fast, says Daniel Kammen, a professor of sustainability at the University of California, Berkeley and former Science Envoy to the U.S. State Department. While aging societies do pose possible challenges in the future, Kammen says the world is facing a current full-blown crisis right now: climate change. And adding more people to the Earth's population will only further complicate humanity's lagging efforts to fight global warming, experts say. There's no ideal number, but certainly I would say there are too many people on our planet for our current lifestyle, Kammen said. Kammen believes the entire conversation about population is a red herring, a view commonly held among population experts. Instead, he says the focus should be on whether or not countries are wisely using resources. That's when the wealth of nations like the U.S., and not their population, come into focus. A study in the journal Nature Sustainability this year found that the world's wealthiest 10% of people produce 47% of its carbon emissions, compared to just 10% of emissions for the entire bottom half of the economic ladder. To put it another way, World Bank data shows the average Nigerian's carbon footprint is 0.6 metric tons each year. With the globe currently emitting about 34 billion metric tons of CO2 annually, that means it could currently support 58 billion people if they had a Nigerian carbon footprint. On the other hand, the average American uses 14.7 metric tons of CO2 each year, meaning the world could support just 2.3 billion people if everyone had an American footprint. The same effect can be seen within countries. While many Americans believe that population-dense cities hold the most blame for carbon emissions, work from Kammen and his colleagues show the carbon footprints of urban Americans are actually substantially less than rural residents, with suburban residents surpassing both. That's true both on a per capita basis and in total: about half of U.S. carbon emissions come from suburban settings, while less than a third come from urban. Ultimately, Kammen said, the question is how to reduce resource footprints, especially in wealthy nations. The smaller they get, the more people the planet can support. While it sure seems like there are a lot of people on our planet, our individual impact is much more measured by the ways in which we amplify or minimize our footprint, Kammen said. If you make it about population, you avoid how critical our patterns of consumption are. Experts also say the challenges of population decline are not insurmountable. Johnston says it will come down to smart planning and cooperation. If populations do peak and fall, governments can mitigate the repercussions by sharing resources more equitably. That will likely include sacrifices among the older generations. Not with their lives as "Plan 75" depicts, but through higher retirement ages and adjustments to pensions and benefits. Other experts note that it may be possible to maintain productivity levels with fewer people, through increased education or even possibly with the assistance of technologies like Artificial Intelligence and automation. In the end, people of working ages may also need to sacrifice in the form of higher taxes. But such a future will inevitably look different than the world we live in now, and Goodhart and Pradhan warn a lot will be riding on whether or not societies accept such changes. "We doubt that politicians, facing rising health and pension costs, will be prepared or able to raise taxes enough to equilibrate the economy via fiscal policy," they wrote. Population 'cures' can be worse than population collapse While population decline comes with challenges, experts warn that attempts to reverse course are often at best ineffectual, and at worst hateful and destructive. After all, they note, the basis of population decline is personal freedom. Reiner Klingholz, a population researcher and author based in Germany, notes that smaller families and a more developed lifestyle often go hand-in-hand. As a society becomes wealthier and more educated, its fertility rate invariably falls. That's particularly tied to women's education and empowerment. When women become more educated, both professionally and on sexual reproduction, they are presented with life choices beyond homemaker and often choose to have less children, experts say. Development also brings increased wealth, which creates societies that are overall healthier and happier, even if the fertility rate is lower. Look at Sweden and Denmark, where fertility rates stand at 1.7, Klingholz said. People are very happy in these countries. Also troubling: Concerns about population decline often boost xenophobia. In the United States, "Great Replacement Theory" an unfounded conspiracy that political leaders are intentionally replacing white Americans with non-white immigrants has moved from extreme right-wing circles into mainstream discourse. More: Republican politicians all over the country have repeated the Great Replacement theory Perhaps nowhere is this tension more apparent globally than in Hungary, where the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban is now offering about $30,000 and a raft of subsidies on homes and cars for Hungarian families with at least four children, while opposing new immigration. Instead of just numbers, we want Hungarian children. Migration for us is surrender, Orban said in 2020. Such rhetoric stands in stark contrast to most economists, who according to Goodhart and Pradhan, value immigration as a tool to offset population decline and boost a country's workforce and productivity. Attempts to instead fix population decline through economic policies like tax incentives often fail due to the ties between women's empowerment and lower fertility rates, said Per Espen Stoknes, director of the BI Centre for Sustainability and Energy at the Norwegian Business School. Men can't tell women how many children they should have, Stoknes said. It's not really about the issue of (resources). It's really about what kind of life do women want for themselves? A happier future? Johnston says that in the end, population decline doesn't have to be a crisis. Ultimately, as with climate change, it comes down to wise resource allocation. If humanity can cooperate and efficiently distribute resources through immigration and economic policies, it could build a world with where people are fewer but more educated, and in which productivity and ingenuity still flourish. But that's a big "if." It might be so much healthier if there's a smaller population overall, but much more cooperation, Johnston said. If China goes from 1.4 billion people to 800 million, but people go from peasants to middle class, how on Earth is that going to be a bad shift? Kyle Bagenstose covers climate change, chemicals, water and other environmental topics for USA TODAY. He can be reached at kbagenstose@gannett.com or on Twitter @kylebagenstose. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Elon Musk says falling population is worse than climate change. Is it? (Reuters) - Canadian pipeline operator Enbridge Inc said on Monday Al Monaco will step down as its chief executive officer and president, effective Jan. 1 next year, and Greg Ebel will succeed him. "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Al for his invaluable and bold leadership over the last decade as CEO, and throughout his 27 years with Enbridge," said Ebel, who is currently the Board Chairman since 2017. Monaco will also step down as a board member at the start of 2023, Enbridge said, adding that a new chairman will be named to take Ebel's place. "Under his leadership, Enbridge strategically expanded its liquids pipeline business into the U.S. gulf coast, executed the successful $37 billion merger with Spectra Energy, built out its crude oil and LNG export capabilities, and accelerated its renewable energy and low-carbon growth," Ebel said. (Reporting by Ruhi Soni in Bengaluru; editing by Uttaresh.V) Just a few hours before Ringo Starrs scheduled tour stop on Saturday night at Michigans Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo, the former Beatle announced he would not be able to perform due to an unspecified ailment. In a statement shared by the venue, Starrs team confirmed that the 82-year-old did not have COVID but said he could not go on because his voice was being affected by the illness. More from Variety Ringo is sick and was hoping he could carry on, hence the late decision, but it has affected his voice so tonights show, scheduled to begin in a few hours is canceled, read the announcement posted to the casinos Facebook. Fans can pursue refunds if they wish, however, the note also advises ticket holders to wait until further information is provided, which may mean a rescheduled date; the announcement uses both the words postponement and canceled. Variety has reached out to Starrs team for further comment. Starr and His All-Starr Band consisting of Totos Steve Lukather, Men at Works Colin Hay, Average White Bands Hamish Stuart and Edgar Winter have also postponed their Sunday night show in Minnesota at the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. A rescheduled date for this show is said to be announced in the future, with all of the original tickets honoring the new date. In June, Starr announced the postponement of these North American dates because both Winter and Lukather were diagnosed with COVID. However, the band and Starr are currently traveling for those rescheduled stops, slated to wrap on Oct. 20 at the Auditorio Nacional in Mexico City. Check Starrs website for further details. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. An entirely solar-powered community just 12 miles from where Hurricane Ian made landfall survived the storm without losing power, CNN reported. Babcock Ranch was designed with a redundant solar grid with in-home battery backups and streets designed to flood so houses dont, according to the network. While the storm tore shingles from roofs, residents of the town which bills itself as Americas first 100 percent solar community now see their comparatively light damage as evidence that their model works. We have proof of the case now because [the hurricane] came right over us, 68-year old resident Nancy Chorpenning told CNN. We have water, electricity, internet and we may be the only people in Southwest Florida who are that fortunate, Chorpenning added. On a broader scale, expensive upgrades to Floridas power grid helped the states electric system weather Hurricane Ian, The Wall Street Journal reported. While hundreds of thousands remain without power, the damage is largely superficial, CEO Archie Collins of TECO Energy told the Journal. Now it is just a matter of clearing the debris and the branches and the trees that have come down, Collins said. The rapid pace of grid repair is a vindication for the often-controversial multibillion-dollar upgrades state utilities carried out over the past years, the Journal reported. That spending paid in part to improve, bury and strengthen transmission lines with Florida Power & Light burying about 40 percent of their system underground, according to the Journal. Nonetheless, the continuing blackouts are just a reminder of the power of Mother Nature, and it is humbling, CEO Eric Silagy of Florida Power & Light told the newspaper. You can engineer and you can build to very strong standards, but theres no grid in the world thats hurricane proof. Welcome to Equilibrium, a newsletter that tracks the growing global battle over the future of sustainability. Were Saul Elbein and Sharon Udasin. Send us tips and feedback. Subscribe here. Story continues Today well begin with the approval of federal aid for Puerto Rico, followed by a look at Floridas long road to recovery after Hurricane Ian. Plus: Future U.S. water quality regulations could hinge on the definition of a single word. Puerto Rico gets aid as Florida copes with Ian aftermath President Biden announced $60 million in federal aid for Puerto Ricos recovery from Hurricane Fiona during his visit to the battered island on Monday. The president pledged to rebuild Puerto Rico in a resilient way, so when storms come again, which they will, theyre not having the damage that they caused before. We came here in person to show that were with you all of Americas with you as you receive and recover and rebuild, he said. Double devastation: Both the Caribbean and the southeastern U.S. are reeling from damage caused by the back-to-back arrivals of Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian. Puerto Rico plagued by power loss: About 120,000 homes and businesses in Puerto Rico lacked power on Monday, two weeks after Hurricane Fiona caused outages for the islands 3.3 million residents, Reuters reported. After wreaking havoc in both Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic on Sept. 18, Fiona slammed into Canadas eastern seaboard on Sept. 24. About 24,500 Canadian customers were without power on the North Atlantic island province of Nova Scotia early Monday. Mental health challenges rattle Puerto Rico: Residents of Puerto Rico may be confronting a mental health crisis, as hurricanes, earthquakes and a global pandemic have traumatized families over the past five years, experts told USA Today. Hurricane Fiona hit the island almost exactly five years after Hurricane Maria a devastating Category 4 storm ravaged the region, USA Today reported. Grappling with uncertainty: Theres a real sense of uncertainty of the future of Puerto Rico, Daniel Gaztambide, assistant director of the clinical psychology program at the New School, told USA Today. There has to be a response to address the immediate natural disaster and a response to address the past, present, and ongoing political disaster, he added. Anxiety skyrockets: Puerto Ricos Mental Health and Anti-Addiction Services Administration said that calls to its hotline have surged since Hurricane Fiona struck the island, USA Today reported. Weve seen through those calls how feelings of sadness, anxiety, fear, insecurity, uneasiness, and even loss of appetite have all increased, Carlos Rodriguez Mateos, director of the administration, told the outlet. ROCKY ROAD TO RECOVERY Just nine days after Fiona battered Puerto Rico, Hurricane Ian came barreling into southwest Florida where residents are now picking up the pieces amid widespread devastation. A mounting death toll: Authorities confirmed the storm has killed at least 100 people in Florida, with 54 occurring in southwestern Floridas Lee County, CNN reported. More than 1,600 people have been rescued in Ians path since Sunday, according to Gov. Ron DeSantiss (R) office. Infrastructural collapse: While blue skies have returned to southern Florida, more than 550,000 people were without power as of early Monday afternoon, according to nationwide outage aggregator poweroutage.us. More than 100 boil-water advisories were in place in cities around the state, according to the Florida Health Department. Rescuers go door-to-door: Rescuers from Florida Task Force 2 most of them Miami firefighters went door-to-door this weekend in the island town of Fort Myers Beach, The New York Times reported. The firefighters aimed to find anyone in need of rescue in the town, located on Estero Island off Floridas southwest coast. The team members said they found at least 750 people who had stayed in Fort Myers Beach in defiance of mandatory evacuation orders. Rescuers took about 200 of them off the island. Northward bound: After leaving Florida, Ian was not done inundating Virginia with rain on Sunday, The Associated Press reported. The storms remnants moved offshore and formed a noreaster, which could bring more precipitation into a Chesapeake Bay that is already filled to the brim, according to the AP. Something to watch Orlene arrives in Mexico: Hurricane Orlene, a Category 1 storm, made landfall in southwestern Mexico on Monday, bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain, The Washington Post reported. Hurricane warnings were in effect for the Isla Marias archipelago and a stretch of the mainland Mexican coastline, according to the Post. High court hears arguments on water quality case The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on Monday that could determine the future of a key section of the Clean Water Act, our colleagues Rachel Frazin and John Kruzel reported. The section in question is the Waters of the U.S. Rule, a section of the Act which establishes federal jurisdiction and permitting requirements over a broad array of U.S. wetlands, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The 6-3 conservative-majority court didnt signal whether it would narrow the governments power to regulate waterways, although Chief Justice John Roberts has presided over a series of deregulatory decisions this year. That included a sweeping June ruling curtailing the power of the Environmental Protection Agency to push the nations power plants away from coal. Whats the fuss? The current debate is a highly technical question with far-reaching implications, Frazin and Kruzel reported over the weekend. Two Idaho landowners, Michael and Chantell Sackett, sued over the requirement that they obtain permits to build a house on land zoned as federal wetland. Their attorney Monday argued that the existing federal definition of wetland was too broad. Touching v. neighboring: The Sacketts lawyer argued that permitting should only be required for properties touching a federal wetland, not simply neighboring one, according to Frazin and Kruzel. A change to reflect that interpretation would potentially require only properties and projects hosting wetlands as opposed to draining into them to require permits. In her debut before the court, new liberal appointee Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson questioned this approach. Why would Congress draw the coverage line between abutting wetlands and neighboring wetlands when the objective of the statute is to ensure the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the nations waters? she asked. Conservatives had questions, too: Justice Brett Kavanaugh suggested to the Sacketts lawyer that the distinction was meaningless. If it wasnt, he asked, Why did seven straight administrations not agree with you? Future implications: Sam Sankar of environmental advocacy group Earthjustice warned The Hill that a rollback in the Clean Water Act would directly impact not only wild landscapes but also the drinking water for millions of people. People who live on wells or in areas where the water treatment systems arent as big or fancy or as expensive are going to suffer, Sankar said. Major international climate race heads to runoff A key presidential race that could determine the fate of South Americas Amazon rainforest is headed to a runoff. Brazils presidential election Sunday was a grudge match, pitting far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro against leftist former president Lula da Silva . Da Silva presided over a historic drop in deforestation in the Amazon rainforest while Bolsonaro oversaw a record rise, as Vox reported. By the numbers: Da Silva took about 48 percent of the vote to Bolsonaros 43 percent, according to The New York Times. Since neither made it past 50 percent, that will force the two into a runoff election. Several other Bolsonaro loyalists like his former environment minister, notorious for the deforestation that occurred on her watch won election to Brazils Congress. Going upriver: Thousands of Brazilian citizens in small towns and tiny villages across the Amazon voted at mobile polls aboard riverboats, the AP reported. Big Amazon landowners who have made fortunes converting forests to soy fields and cattle pasture have spent millions trying to ensure Bolsonaros reelection, according to Bloomberg. Regardless of who wins the national election, Bolsonaro allies will likely maintain control of the governorships of most of Brazils Amazon states, environmental news site Mongabay reported. The dense carbon-storing forests of the Amazon are one of the many key earth systems being pushed toward collapse by a combination of climate change and human action, as we previously covered. Amazon battleground: Da Silvas success in cutting deforestation has made him unpopular among large Amazon landowners and a plurality of voters in several of the regions states, according to Mongabay. Ground zero: According to nonprofit news site InfoAmazonia, two of the states Bolsonaro took Rondonia and Acre states are among the nations leading hot spots of deforestation. Those states have pursued a Bolsonaro-supported model of agriculture built on the conversion of public and private forests to agriculture, InfoAmazonia reported. Monday Miscellanies Sweden dives into Russian gas probe, Caribbean governments curb carcinogenic organic pollutants and how to achieve job security while saving the planet. Sweden sends diving vessel to probe ruptured gas pipelines Sweden deployed a diving vessel on Monday to the Baltic Sea, with hopes of demystifying a series of blasts that struck Russias Nord Stream gas pipelines last week, Reuters reported. Europe is probing what caused the burst a suspected act of sabotage that Russia has likewise pinned on the West, according to Reuters. Caribbean nations cleaning up cancer-causing chemicals: UN Caribbean governments are taking steps to reduce the presence of cancer-causing chemicals plaguing their environments, the United Nations reported. At the end of a seven-year, $9 million program, the eight participating countries have ramped up their abilities to sample and inventory so-called persistent organic pollutants. To read about the health impacts of these compounds and efforts to eliminate them, see the full Hill story. A nationwide need for electricians amid transition to renewables Those looking for job security while helping save the planet should consider retraining as electricians a profession in dire of foot soldiers in the U.S.s sweeping campaign of electrification, The Washington Post reported. A billion machines need to be installed or replaced over the next 25 years across 121 million homes, Ari Matusiak, CEO of electrification nonprofit Rewiring America, told the Post. Please visit The Hills Sustainability section online for the web version of this newsletter and more stories. Well see you tomorrow. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Masa Maybe while taking an August stroll somewhere along the shoreline of the waters between Sag Harbor and Montauk in New Yorks Hamptons, you caught a glimpse of the 88-foot San Lorenzo superyacht carrying passengers enjoying the finest Champagne and the out-of-this-world food concepts of a three-star Michelin chef. Explore: Your Biggest Money Etiquette Questions Answered See Our List: 100 Most Influential Money Experts Its called the Dom Perignon superyacht cruise, which for just two fleeting weeks this summer (Aug. 17-31), invited guests aboard to savor Dom one of the worlds finest Champagnes as well as the sushi omakase masterfully prepared by celebrated chef Masayoshi Takayama. Hes the owner of Masa New York City and Bar Masa and the chef at Kappo Masa, but diners hadnt enjoyed his omakase experience on the water until this summer. This experience with Chef Masa allows us to come together in an unexpected space that embraces our traditions while daring us to explore a culinary thrill in a place of ultimate luxury, said Isadora Bailly, vice president at Dom Perignon, per the Robb Report. At Masa in midtown Manhattan, Takayamas omakase is the most expensive meal for one in the nation, Eater reported in March. The menu is prix fixe at $750 per person, not including beverages or tax, if you dine at a table. Add $200 for the Hinoki Counter Experience, where you watch the masterful sushi chefs create their works of art. In ranking Takayama and awarding his three stars, the Michelin Guide had this to say about the sushi at Masa: To taste what may be the continents best sushi, experience the contemplative and very exclusive ceremony of Chef Masa Takayamas omakase. Everything here carries a certain weight, from the heavy wooden door to the bill. So it seems fitting that the Dom Perignon superyacht cruise featured the menu of a three-star Michelin chef. And the summer cruise came at a big price, according to the Robb Report: $30,000 for the ultimate package, which included Takayamas sushi paired with some of Doms best a 2012 vintage, the Rose from 2008 and a 2003 Plenitude 2. Story continues Take Our Poll: Do You Believe in Quiet Quitting? If you opted out of dinner, the cruise packages started at $15,000. And the luxuries abounded on the four-hour cruise accommodating six guests with a departure from Sag Harbour or Montauk. On-board butler service. A DJ playing the music to fit your vibe. Door-to-dock chauffeur service in a luxury auto from your location in the Hamptons. And a concierge, of course, to secure the Dom Perignon on your behalf. The New York venture didnt mark Doms debut on the water. Last December, the Dom Perignon Yacht Concierge service debuted at Art Basel Miami Beach. The white-gloved concierge delivered one of the three bottles of bubbly straight to vessels in the harbor or homes on the beach, along with caviar and all of the accessories. Neither Dom Perignon nor Les Bulles dOr, a VIP concierge service that partnered with the bubbly maker, have confirmed whether the Dom Perignon superyacht cruise will continue in the Hamptons next summer. Maybe it was a one-time-only event, or perhaps the cruise will move to another playground of the rich and famous and team with another Michelin-rated chef. Until then, you can dream. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Everything To Know About the Hamptons Superyacht Cruise Featuring Dom Perignon and a Michelin-Star Sushi Chef By Dave Graham and Stefanie Eschenbacher MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexican state power utility Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) last year lost an international arbitration case to Canadian firm ATCO Ltd , and had to pay redress of about $85 million, according to three people familiar with the matter. Though the case relates to a pipeline contracted by the previous Mexican government, it offers an indication of the sort of dispute compensation the current administration could have to pay over its contentious moves to tighten state control of the energy market. The London Court of International Arbitration made the award on the Ramal Tula pipeline to ATCO in October 2021, the sources said. Once legal fees and interest were added, the sum came to around $100 million, which CFE paid ATCO in December, they added. ATCO could not comment because its contractual dealings with CFE are confidential, a spokesperson said, adding the Canadian firm remained committed to pursuing efficient, lower-emission energy solutions in Mexico. The court declined to comment and CFE did not reply to requests for comment. ATCO pursued arbitration because after President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took power in 2018, CFE canceled a contract the last administration agreed with the Canadian firm to build a natural gas pipeline near the central city of Tula on the grounds that the work was incomplete, the sources said. ATCO had already built most of the 17 kilometer (11 mile) pipeline due to supply a power station. But the firm said it could not finish the final stretch due to resistance by local communities, and therefore invoked force majeure. The Canadian company argued Mexico had not done enough to enable the pipeline's completion, and the court agreed, the sources said. Mexico had initially estimated the project was worth $66 million when it was awarded in 2014. Lopez Obrador has overhauled legislation to bolster the position of CFE and state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) at the expense of independent operators, arguing that past governments skewed the market in favor of private capital. Story continues Still, in July, the U.S. Trade Representative requested dispute settlement talks with Mexico over billions of dollars in energy investments, arguing Lopez Obrador's policies violated the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) trade agreement. Canada quickly joined the U.S. complaint, which officials are working to resolve. CFE said in its 2021 annual report it was facing 21 cases of international arbitration, and had significantly raised its reserves for litigation and lawsuits. There have, however, been signs that Mexico is finding ways to get past some disputes. In August, Canadian firm TC Energy said it had sealed a deal with CFE to build a $4.5 billion pipeline in southeast Mexico. In the announcement, TC Energy said the two sides had agreed to "mutually terminate" international arbitration relating to other pipelines the Canadian firm was building in Mexico. (Reporting by Dave Graham and Stefanie Eschenbacher; Additional reporting by Nia Williams in Calgary; Editing by Josie Kao) KATERYNA TYSHCHENKO SUNDAY, 2 OCTOBER 2022, 21:47 There was an explosion in Nyzhnia Duvanka near Svatove in the occupied part of Luhansk Oblast on Sunday; occupiers from Buryatia [a republic in eastern Siberia, part of the Russian Federation ed.] were killed. Source: Serhii Haidai, Head of Luhansk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "Today, in Nyzhnia Duvanka near Svatove, some Buryats were blown up, and parts of their bodies are now hanging on trees. Apparently, they were smoking somewhere they shouldnt have. Or should have. The mood [among the Russians - ed.] is panic. They are shocked at the speed of the Ukrainian soldiers counteroffensive." Details: Haidai added that the Ukrainian defenders were surprised by the number of occupiers killed in some of the liberated territories; they assume that the barrier troops [special units that prevent other troops from retreating ed.] did their job there. "In the areas of the front that our defenders have reclaimed, even they are surprised because there are a lot of dead orcs [Russian soldiers ed.]. They say that the fighting has been intense, but maybe some barrier troops were doing their job so as not to let the Russians escape," he concluded. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda! Photo: IHIT. Shaoxin Zhang, 19, was shot to death in a parking lot off North Road in Burnaby in 2006. His killer recently appealed his second-degree murder conviction. A 45-year-old man found guilty of murder and attempted murder for a 2006 Burnaby shooting over an $80 debt and an insult to his mother has succeeded in getting the attempted murder conviction quashed but how that will affect his life sentence is unclear. $80 nightclub ticket debt On Jan. 22, 2006, Lee Chia Kenny Weng, shot and killed 19-year-old Shaoxin Zhang and injured Ralph Wu in a violent clash in the parking lot of a mall at 3355 North Rd. Weng and some friends had met with Zhang, Wu and others to discuss an alleged $80 debt for tickets to a Vancouver nightclub. A phone call before the meeting had amped-up the bad blood, with Wu telling Weng to f*** your mother, and Weng telling Wu to wear a bullet-proof vest and get ready to swallow some bullets, according to information presented in court. At the parking lot, the two groups (about eight people in all) shouted and swore at each other before one of Wengs group hit Wu in the head with a wrench. Weng then opened fire, squeezing off up to four shots with a .45 calibre handgun, hitting Wu in the shoulder and Zhang in the groin. Family man It would take 13 years for Weng to be arrested for the shooting. He fled to Taiwan (a country that doesnt have an extradition agreement with Canada), and law enforcement didnt catch up with him until 2018, when he was arrested in South Korea and sent back to Canada to face charges. During his 13 years back in Taiwan, Weng had lived openly, married, had two children and worked at a profession he was relatively successful in, according to a 2019 sentencing ruling in the case. Now, he is in prison in Canada. He was convicted in August 2019 and handed a life sentence with no chance of parole for 12 years for the second-degree murder and a nine-year concurrent sentence for the attempted murder. Attempted murder conviction overturned Weng, who is now 45 years old, went on to appeal his conviction, however, arguing the trial judge hadnt properly established he had actually intended to kill Zhang and Wu. A B.C. Court of Appeal decision last week left him with a partial victory. The court unanimously rejected his argument in relation to the murder conviction, concluding the trial judge had properly considered all the relevant evidence before ruling Wengs state of mind when he pulled the trigger made him guilty of murder in Zhangs death. But the appeals court overturned the attempted murder conviction, concluding the trial judges factual findings didnt prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Weng had intended to kill Wu. For example, the trial judge had found Weng hadnt been aiming carefully and didnt shoot Wu again when he had the chance. The court quashed the attempted murder conviction and replaced it with a conviction for aggravated assault. Whether that will make any difference to Wengs sentence is unclear since the two sentences are running at the same time. The process for bringing the matter back to court has not been determined at this stage. It is not automatic, B.C. Prosecution Service spokesperson Dan McLaughlin told Glacier Media. Glacier Media has reached out to Wengs lawyer, Ian Donaldson, but has not heard back. (Reuters) - Five days after Hurricane Ian cut a swath of destruction across Florida and the Carolinas as one of the strongest storms ever to hit the U.S. mainland, officials are still assessing the damage. Here are some of the early measures of Ian's catastrophic impact: DEATH TOLL As of Monday morning, at least 85 deaths had been attributed to the storm, including 81 in Florida, which took the brunt of Ian's power when the storm slammed into the state's Gulf Coast last Wednesday as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 miles per hour (240 km per hour). More than half of the reported fatalities occurred in coastal Lee County, where officials have defended their decision not to order evacuations sooner. The death toll is expected to keep rising as search teams reach more areas cut off by floodwaters and debris. Hundreds of people stranded by the storm have been rescued. Rescue crews have visited about 45,000 homes and businesses in affected areas, Kevin Guthrie, the state's emergency management director, told reporters on Monday. "We've been to about every address," he said. "Now we are going back for a second look." PROPERTY DAMAGE Insurers are anticipating between $42 billion and $57 billion in losses, risk modeling firm Verisk said on Monday. That total, which includes damage from wind, storm surge and flooding, excludes losses covered by the U.S. government's National Flood Insurance Program or costs associated with litigation, among other elements. Those could bring the top end of the estimated range closer to $60 billion, Verisk said. Virtually all of the losses stem from Florida. CoreLogic, a U.S. property data and analytics company, estimated the insured losses in Florida at between $28 billion and $47 billion on Friday, when Ian was taking aim at South Carolina after marching across Florida. POWER AND WATER OUTAGES Around 600,000 homes and businesses remained without power in Florida early on Monday. The storm knocked out power to more than four million customers in Florida. Story continues Ian also left more than 1.1 million homes and businesses in North and South Carolina without power over the weekend, though most of those customers have since had their power restored. There were more than 140 boil-water advisories in effect across Florida on Monday, including for all of Lee and Charlotte counties, two of the hardest-hit areas. The state dispatched 20 trucks carrying 1.2 million gallons (5.5 million liters) of water to support hospitals in Lee County without potable water, the office of Governor Ron DeSantis said. More than 7,000 patients have been evacuated from more than 150 healthcare facilities, state officials said on Monday. HARD-HIT AREAS Florida's Gulf Coast sustained the most damage after Ian crashed ashore on the barrier island of Cayo Costa Island. Other barrier islands such as Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach, both popular vacation destinations, saw homes swept away, buildings torn apart and boats washed onto streets. Parts of the causeway connecting Sanibel Island to the mainland collapsed, while the bridge between Pine Island - just north of Sanibel - and the mainland was also damaged, cutting both islands off. Coastal cities such as Fort Myers, Port Charlotte and Naples suffered significant storm surge. The storm's heavy rainfall also brought floodwaters inland, including to Orlando and the surrounding communities, and central Florida could see record river flooding this week, according to the National Weather Service. (Reporting by Joseph Ax; editing by Jonathan Oatis) Photo by Aaron C. Davis/The Washington Post via Getty Images As hundreds of MAGA rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol last January, prosecutors say five members of the far-right militia group Oath Keepers were executing a long-planned mission: an armed rebellion to shatter a bedrock of American democracy. The argument, made Monday in D.C. federal court, launched the most significant trial yet over the insurrection intended to stop the certification of President Joe Bidens win over Donald Trump in the 2020 election. Prosecutors say that unlike some rank-and-file conspiracy theoristsmany of whom have already been convictedStewart Rhodes, the founder of the Oath Keepers, and four of his acolytes plotted for weeks to subvert democracy. Officially, the five defendants are charged with seditious conspiracy, a rare Civil War-era charge which is by far the most serious lobbed at anyone in connection with the riot and means a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. They have all pleaded not guilty. Their goal was to stop by whatever means necessary the lawful transfer of presidential power, including by taking up arms against the United States government, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Nestler said during his opening statement on Monday. They did not go to the Capitol to defend or help; they went to attack. Prosecutors allege that like a general, Rhodes surveyed his troops during the riot as they breached the Capitol, coordinating with groups that had stockpiles of weapons outside of D.C. Just days after the insurrection, Nestler said, Rhodes told an associate they shouldve brought rifles and indicated he thought Trump was going to continue to dispute the election. (While Trump did say he would yield power in the aftermath of the bloody riot, the election lies that fueled it remain the lifeblood of the GOP and his own political identity.) In a recording of the same conversation played for jurors on Monday, Rhodes says that his group could have fixed it right then and there if they had weapons with them at the Capitol. Story continues Daughter of Oath Keepers Founder Organizing Pro-Choice Rally On Monday, Rhodes lawyer revealed that the founderhimself a graduate of Yale Law Schoolintended to testify on his own behalf. Broadly, defense attorneys say their clients anger at the election was taken out of context and that their actions on Jan. 6 were not violent. Philip Linder, Rhodes lawyer, said the Oath Keepers were waiting for Trump to invoke the Insurrection Act, which would have allowed them to use force to support him. Even though it may look inflammatory, they did nothing illegal, Linder said during his opening statement on Monday, before arguing to the jury that the Oath Keepers were a peacekeeping force that merely went to the Capitol to provide security for speakers throughout that bloody week. Standing trial with Rhodes are Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida Oath Keepers chapter; member Kenneth Harrelson; Thomas Caldwell, a retired Navy intelligence officer; and Jessica Watkins, who was the leader of an Ohio militia group. Nestler on Monday alleged that Meggs told a friend that he was looking for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as he went through the House chamber during the riots. [On] the evening of Jan. 6, after Meggs told an associate that we busted in, the associate said he was hoping to see Nancys head rolling down the front steps, the prosecutors told jurors. And what did Kelly Meggs confirm in response? We looked for her. Jonathan Crip, an attorney for Watkins, told jurors on Monday that his client is a transgender woman who was haunted after her enlistment with the military abruptly ended. The things she said were at times offensive and just plain wrong, Crisp added, according to Politico. The context matters. Federal authorities have described the Oath Keepers as a large but loosely organized collection of [the] militia who believe that the federal government has been co-opted by a shadowy conspiracy that is trying to strip American citizens of their rights and who heavily recruit former military, law enforcement, and first responders. Among the groups earlier forays onto the national scene was their vigilante-style presence in Ferguson, Missouri, after the police killing of Michael Brown in 2014. In 2020, they inserted themselves into the fray in Louisville, Kentucky, where protests had erupted over the police killing of Breonna Taylor, an unarmed Black woman shot during a dubious raid. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. NEW YORK Its a milestone no one wants to mark: Within the next year, the number of FDNY members who have died from a 9/11-related illnesses is expected to surpass the number of firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians who died in the terror attack, FDNY and union officials said. As of Friday, 306 active and retired FDNY members including firefighters and EMS members have died of 9/11-related illnesses. Its only a matter of time before the count of heroes felled by 9/11 illnesses will exceed the 343 firefighters and other FDNY workers who died on 9/11, say people who monitor the situation. It may be in the next six months, said James McCarthy, president of the FDNY-Uniformed Fire Officers Association. We have thousands of people who have been diagnosed with a 9/11 illness or cancer. Everyone has something, and thats part of the problem. It was announced last week that retired FDNY Firefighter George Tripptree, EMS Captain Fay Baughman and EMS Lt. Gloria Gordon all died of a 9/11-related illness. A week earlier, three firefighters, including retired FDNY Battalion Chief Joseph McKie, died from their exposure to the toxic soup that hung over Ground Zero for weeks of rescue and recovery operations. Theres been a significant number of deaths in the last couple of weeks, McCarthy said. Weve been to eight World Trade Center funerals since the end of August. All those years ago when we first started talking about World Trade Center illnesses, we said that between 10 and 20 years (after Sept. 11, 2001) we would see a spike in some of the cancers because it takes that much time to manifest, added McCarthy, who attended the FDNY fire academy with McKie. Here we are 21 years later and its happening. The FDNY estimates that 11,000 active and retired FDNY and EMS members have at least one certified World Trade Center-related illness, including cancers and respiratory and gastrointestinal issues. Twenty-one years ago, we lost 343 members of our FDNY family. That was not the end of September 11ths impact on our Department, Acting FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said. The attacks continue to rob our department of members each and every year. Story continues Nearly 3,000 people were killed when terrorists flew passenger jets into the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Since then, more than 4,000 first responders, volunteers and survivors have died from an illness or cancer linked to their time at Ground Zero, according to the World Trade Center Health Program, which currently faces a $3 billion deficit. Advocates fear the budget gap could begin affecting services for 9/11 survivors late next year. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), the Senate majority leader, has vowed to secure the money needed to fully fund the program. In the days following 9/11, FDNY members at Ground Zero worked endless hours on the pile, rarely leaving the area. They told us that the air was safe so we didnt take breaks, McCarthy said. We ate lunch or had our coffee and water breaks right where we stood because it was too far to walk off and walk back. In retrospect that led to a lot of this exposure. We ingested it in many different ways. Everybody feels the inevitability that they will receive a World Trade Center illness diagnosis sooner or later, McCarthy said. You get a dark humor about it, he added. You hope for something easy or curable. Despite the uptick in World Trade Center illness deaths, McCarthy had some good news last week. No one is in hospice at least right now, McCarthy said of his FDNY brothers and sisters. When you hear that, its always, Thank God. Oct. 1Jonathan Tony Sanchez wasn't your typical convicted felon. So, too, his recent federal trial on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition was far from ordinary. The FBI had identified Sanchez as one of eight members of the ultra-violent Syndicato Nuevo Mexico prison gang on the streets of Albuquerque who had been solicited in 2015 to kill the then-Cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Corrections Department, and two other prison administrators and their families. Sanchez, 36, of Albuquerque, wasn't charged in that years-long racketeering prosecution of the gang and the murder plot was foiled. But when Sanchez was arrested at an Albuquerque apartment in March 2021 for violating his state parole on a drug conviction, the FBI and federal prosecutors were interested in the .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol found at the scene a weapon that later showed traces of his DNA. During his three-day federal trial on the gun charge last week, Sanchez was permitted to wear makeup in court to hide his trademark gang tattoos. U.S. District Judge David Urias of Albuquerque also granted defense motions that forbade prosecutors from using Sanchez's gang name, Kilo, or mentioning his SNM gang affiliation. The government also couldn't mention that he had absconded from state parole at the time state fugitive investigators and Bernalillo County Sheriff's deputies forced their way into a Wellesley NE apartment when no one inside heeded calls to come out. Government photos showing the breached door were banned at trial. Investigators who testified merely said they had to open the door and wait inside until Sanchez came downstairs because they were serving a warrant. Urias appointed to the bench earlier this year granted several defense motions to exclude what federal prosecutors argued was admissible evidence. The defense deemed it prejudicial or irrelevant to the firearms case. But after two hours of deliberation on Thursday, the jury found Sanchez guilty a conviction that carries up to 10 years in prison. Story continues Defense attorneys Michael Rosenfield and Phillip Sapien couldn't be reached for comment Friday. But their defense focused primarily on what was found on the handgun, which was inside a small open purse on a table near the front door. The purse belonged to Sanchez's girlfriend, who is now his wife, Guadalupe Sanchez. She had been charged with bringing contraband into prison in 2020, but that state charge was dismissed after she entered a pre-prosecution diversion program. Neither she nor Sanchez testified. At trial, a DNA expert from the FBI testified that 84% of the DNA found on the firearm came from a female, 14% from Sanchez and 2% from an unidentified male. The defense argued that Sanchez's DNA could have been transferred to the gun without him ever touching it. That could have occurred by his personal contact with his girlfriend who might have left his DNA on the weapon, Sanchez's attorneys maintained. The state was barred from asking witnesses about Sanchez's being a fugitive from justice when he was arrested, after defense attorneys convinced the judge that doing so would make it appear their client was an "irresponsible convict." At the time, law enforcement was seeking Sanchez after he absconded from parole for possession of a control substance. He had prior convictions for robbery, trafficking a controlled substance and receiving/transferring a stolen vehicle. As a felon, he can't possess firearms or ammunition. The morning of his arrest, an officer from the Corrections Department's Security Threat Investigation Unit testified, they used loud sirens and a public address system to get someone to open the door. Then they pushed the front door in. An FBI criminal complaint said it took Sanchez another 15 minutes to come down from upstairs where he was with another alleged SNM member. FBI Special Agent Bryan Acee, who has led the FBI investigation into the SNM's criminal activities, testified on Wednesday that he was contacted after the pistol was recovered and was later told by Sanchez's girlfriend that she owned the gun. Sanchez, in an interview, admitted his DNA might be on the gun, Acee testified. Acee didn't mention the SNM while on the witness stand, but did identify himself to the jury as the coordinator of the FBI's Violent Crime Gang Task Force. Pennsylvania Democratic Senate candidate John Fetterman is out with a new ad mocking his GOP rival Mehmet Oz and comparing the celebrity surgeon to a quack doctor character from The Simpsons. Before there was Dr. Oz, there was Dr. Nick, Fetterman wrote in a tweet Monday, referring to the recurring character from the long-running animated sitcom. They say the Simpsons always predict the future and once again, they nailed it. The campaign ad includes clips of the cartoon doctor selling miracle cures alongside clips from The Dr. Oz Show in which Oz pitches various treatments. The ad ends by parodying the Republicans campaign logo, replacing Dr. Oz with Dr. Nick. The retired cardiothoracic surgeon rose to television prominence as a guest health expert on The Oprah Winfrey Show before snagging his own program. He ended The Dr. Oz Show in January after 13 seasons in order to launch his Senate bid. Fetterman and Oz have traded hits in a tense race to fill the seat being vacated by retiring Sen. Pat Toomey (R). Recent polling has put Fetterman, Pennsylvanias lieutenant governor, ahead of Oz by a small margin, but indicate his lead may be shrinking as the midterm elections approach. The Hill has reached out to Ozs campaign for comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A phone being dialled (Lewis Stickley/PA) (PA Archive) Four companies have been fined a total of 370,000 after flouting data laws to aggressively pester people with hundreds of thousands of nuisance phone calls. According to the Information Commissioners Office (ICO), the companies were motivated solely by profit as they attempted to sell home insulation to those who had opted out of marketing calls. Andy Curry, the watchdogs investigations head, said the practice had left vulnerable people, including the terminally ill, distressed, upset, worried and inconvenienced. All those who complained to the ICO were registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), a statutory register of people who have said they do not want to receive calls. Posh Windows UK Limited, which is based in Stoke-on-Trent, made 461,062 calls to those registered with the TPS between August 2020 and April 2021. The company, which was fined 150,000, told the ICO that it complied with marketing laws, but its responses were deemed vague, evasive and contradictory. Eco Spray Insulations Limited from Eastleigh, Hampshire, made 178,190 calls without screening against the TPS register and was fined 100,000. Euroseal Windows Limited, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, made 169,830 calls in 2020. Having deliberately made the calls to generate income, it was handed an 80,000 penalty and an enforcement notice. Green Logic UK Ltd from Derby, which made 11,825 calls in 2020, was also given an enforcement notice plus a 40,000 fine. Along with failing to engage with the ICO, its calls were found to be misleading and persistent, and all made for financial gain. Mr Curry said: The complaints we received showed that people were distressed, upset, worried and inconvenienced by the calls. For people to feel this way, in their own homes where they should feel safe, is unacceptable. These companies all aggressively pestered people, including some vulnerable individuals, forcibly trying to make them buy products that they didnt need or want. All of the calls were driven solely by the companies wish to make financial gain. Refugees from Ukraine Read also: European rights agency polls people fleeing war in Ukraine The situation is peculiar due to the war, said Pekka Nuutinen, Director of the Reception Unit at the Finnish Immigration Service. Read also: Zelenskyy Offices adviser on duration of war, prospects of nuclear attack, and future of Russia Were facing a new situation in reception center operations. We felt that it was necessary to change our traditional accommodation policy. The arrival of Russian asylum seekers to Finland has caused concerns among Ukrainians living in the Nordic country. Particularly, the Ukrainian Association in Finland had stated that placing men who escaped from the aggressor state next to Ukrainian women and children would significantly threaten the mental and physical well-being of the latter. Read also: Ukrainian army repels enemy attacks near three settlements, Russia sends cadets to war General Staff Currently, there are roughly 35,000 Ukrainians and 1,000 Russians at reception points in Finland. About 14,000 Ukrainians and about 550 Russians live in distribution reception centers, from where they are to be allocated housing. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine More than 100 firefighters responded to a six-alarm fire in Dorchester Sunday after four buildings caught fire. The fire department says three people suffered minor injuries, including two firefighters. This place was filled with smoke, it was terrible, said Carol Conway, who lives nearby. Neighbors like Conaway came out to see the fire that quickly spread to four triple-deckers. With the wind blowing I was really frightened that our house might be in danger, said Conway. The whipping winds made matters worse for firefighters. The Boston Fire Department says the fire started at a home on Peverell Street, but the winds blew the flames to three other buildings including homes on Cushing Ave. I mean I watched the flames hop or skip from one house up there to Cushing, and at first we thought the firemen were able to put it out, but instead more fire popped up, said Conway. The height of the hill, its a big hill, so the winds even worse at this altitude, so it started going pretty good when they got here, said Paul Burke, Boston fire commissioner. Commissioner Burke says luckily everyone will be okay after what was a challenging fire to put out. It was a tough fire though, the fire was in the building in the rear on Cushing Ave, there was a lot of fire on the top floor, burned right through the roof, said Commissioner Burke. One of the homes that caught fire was where actor Mark Wahlberg grew up. In 2018 he posted a video on Instagram in front of his old house, saying My old crib, 25 Peverell Street. The back side of Wahlbergs old home is now scorched by the flames. Neighbors now feel for the families who lost their home from this fire that startled the whole neighborhood. The firemen were standing on the deck that was burning up and I thought theyre going to fall right through to the next level and that was really frightening, said Conway. The Boston Fire Department says more than a dozen people were displaced from this fire, and the American Red Cross is helping them find another place to stay for now while the cause of this fire is still under investigation. Story continues The fire is estimated to have caused approximately $2 million in damages. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Major Jamie Lee Henry An Army doctor said to be the first active-duty officer to come out as transgender has been indicted on a charge of providing confidential U.S. government information to Russia to assist that nation in its war against Ukraine. Jamie Lee Henry, 39, and their wife, Anna Gabrielian, 36, were charged Thursday with conspiracy and the disclosure of individually identifiable health information, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for Maryland. Both live in Rockville, Md. The charges came from a federal grand jury. Henry, a major in the U.S. Army, came out as a trans woman in an interview with BuzzFeed News in 2015. Although that was a year before the Obama administration lifted the ban on out trans service members, Henry received permission to change their name and pronouns. However, the press release from the U.S. Attorneys Office uses male pronouns. A spokesperson told CNBC that Henry had most recently used male pronouns, including in a court appearance last week, and an attorney for Henry declined comment to the channel. During the time of the alleged conspiracy, Henry worked as a staff internist stationed at Fort Bragg, the home of the Armys XVIII Airborne Corps, headquarters of the United States Army Special Operations Command, and the Womack Army Medical Center. Henry held a secret-level security clearance. Gabrielian worked as an anesthesiologist at Medical Institution 1 in Baltimore. Henry and Gabrielian believed they were providing information to a Russian agent, but the person they were dealing with was actually an undercover FBI agent. According to the eight-count indictment, Gabrielian and Henry conspired to cause harm to the United States by providing confidential health information of Americans associated with the United States government and military to Russia, the press release states. Specifically, the indictment alleges that beginning on August 17, 2022, Gabrielian and Henry conspired to provide IIHI [individually identifiable health information] related to patients at Medical Institution 1 and at Fort Bragg to an individual they believed to be working for the Russian government in order to demonstrate the level of Gabrielians and Henrys access to IIHI of Americans; their willingness to provide IIHI to the Russian government; and the potential for the Russian government to gain insights into the medical conditions of individuals associated with the United States government and military in order to exploit this information. If convicted, Henry and Gabrielian each face a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for the conspiracy and a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for each count of disclosing individually identifiable health information. A Florida sheriffs deputy shot a fellow deputy after shooting a dog that was attacking them. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. Monday while Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office were assisting West Palm Beach police who were serving a search warrant. A pit bull started attacking one of the deputies, so the other shot the dog, but the bullet traveled through the pit bull hitting the deputy, the sheriffs office said in a tweet. The deputy was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, but no other information was released and neither deputy was identified. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident. Plear sach koh is thinly sliced sirloin steak tossed with prahok or tuk trei, lime juice, palm sugar, green peppers, fresno, mushrooms, cucumbers, bean sprout, radish and cabbage and topped with fresh herbs and roasted peanuts. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune) This should be clear from the start: Khmai, the citys second Cambodian restaurant, deserves acclaim for dishes as complex and mesmerizing as anything Ive eaten all year. Advertisement Im far from the only one in on the secret. On my first visit, I sat a table away from Erick Williams, the celebrated chef of Virtue, while on the other side sat Ethan Lim, who runs Hermosa, the citys other dedicated Cambodian restaurant. Khmai, run by Mona Sang with guidance from her mother, Sarom Sieng, is often overflowing with customers; to make sure the kitchen doesnt get overwhelmed, the host regularly turns people without reservations away. But sometimes, to tell a story right, you have to start at the beginning. And for Sang and Sieng, their journey to Chicago began as their family fled a massacre in Cambodia in the late 1970s. Advertisement The family still bears the scars of leaving. Sarom Sieng and her husband, Chrrom, lost two of their sons, who died while the family fled across the border to Thailand. She was also pregnant with me while walking barefoot through the jungle, Mona Sang said. She was bit by a snake. She could hear shooting all around her. When they made it to the refugee camp, Sieng gave birth without any medical care. I was able to survive, even without a doctor, Sang said. Chrrom, distraught hed never see the rest of his extended family again, tried to sneak back to say goodbye. He was never seen again. Chef Mona Sang hugs her mother, Sarom Sieng, at their restaurant, Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining, on Sept. 22, 2022, in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune) Thanks to an aunt who was already in Chicago; sponsors from World Relief, a global Christian humanitarian organization; and Reba Place Church in Evanston, the family was able to relocate to the United States. But they faced different struggles here. We were a really, really poor family, Sang said. We didnt speak English, and my mom had (post-traumatic stress disorder). I remember being made fun of. My brother and I had to share the same shirts. I have a lot of stories. Ethan Lim, who was also born in a refugee camp in Thailand when his parents had to leave Cambodia, understands the complexities. A lot of times, theres the trauma of leaving Cambodia, and theres the trauma of coming here and feeling unfamiliar, Lim said. Through it all, cooking helped Sieng adjust. Shed clean houses to make money, and then go buy food on Argyle Street to make egg rolls, Sang said, referring to the stretch of Uptown replete with Southeast Asian grocery stores. Sieng also spent many hours cooking for her church, the Living Water Community Church. Sang grew to love helping her mom in the kitchen, and eventually became interested in a culinary career. For six years, Sang worked at The Ivy Room, Lettuce Entertain Yous private event space. Khmai chef Mona Sang prepares plear sach koh at Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining on Sept. 22, 2022. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune) But then another tragedy rocked the family. My brother, Samuel, died before the pandemic, and it broke her heart, Sang said of her mother. The church community was there for her, but when the pandemic happened, she couldnt go to church, which is such a huge part of her life. She fell into a depression where shed just sit there and wasnt responsive. We didnt know what to do. At the same time, with the private event business decimated by the pandemic, Sang was furloughed. Advertisement Sang credits her son for helping turn the situation around. He wanted a Cambodian dish, so I went to Argyle Street and got all the stuff I knew how to make, Sang said. I could tell my mom smelled the cooking. After a few times of me cooking alone in the kitchen, one day she just got up and began chopping up vegetables, and we started cooking together. She even told me, Youre cutting this wrong. I was like, Hey, its something. Ill take it! After posting some photos of the Cambodian dishes she and her mom were cooking on social media, friends asked if they could buy some for themselves. That led to them starting Mona Bella Catering. An article from Mike Sula in the Chicago Reader helped draw even more attention. Then Steve Dolinsky covered it. Suddenly, the idea of opening a restaurant didnt sound out of question. (My mom) didnt think this was possible in a million years to open a Cambodian restaurant, Sang said. Khmais seemingly instant success has proven Sang right, even if her dedication has meant working extremely long hours. We make everything fresh, from cooking the soup to prepping the vegetables, Sang said. When you cut a vegetable ahead of time, it loses its color and texture. Only the egg rolls are made ahead of time, but thats only because the shop goes through 500 to 600 a week. Mais famous egg rolls are stuffed with ground chicken, bean thread noodles and taro root, served with a side of rice, jrouk and tuk trei. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune) Youll notice most tables ordering those crackly Mais egg rolls, which contain tender ground chicken, taro root and bean thread noodles. On the side, youll find a bright red sauce called tuk trei, a condiment thats at once funky and savory, yet acidic and spicy. But I havent found a miss on the starter section. One of the most traditional starters is the tuk kreoung, a catfish dip loaded with aromatic lemongrass and savory fish sauce, along with lime juice, palm sugar and prahok, a fermented fish paste used often in Cambodian cuisine. To counter that, youre given crunchy fresh vegetables on the side. The sach koh ang are skewers laced with irresistibly juicy pieces of beef marinated with lemongrass and chiles. Plear sach koh is thinly sliced sirloin steak tossed with prahok or tuk trei, lime juice, palm sugar, green peppers, fresno, mushrooms, cucumbers, bean sprout, radish and cabbage and topped with fresh herbs and roasted peanuts. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune) Im not sure if I can visit without ordering the plear sach koh, an enormous salad loaded with bright green herbs, crunchy vegetables and thin slices of grilled beef. Its coated in a sauce thats a little sweet, pleasantly acidic and very spicy, an alluring combination that gets me every time. Sang said her mom is adamant about how the dish is prepared. My mom wont let me chop the herbs, Sang said. They have to be hand-picked. The vegetables are also cut when the order comes in. Advertisement The heart of the menu can be found in the Traditional Khmai section. I instantly fell for the amok morn, a complex coconut curry featuring tender pieces of chicken wrapped in fragrant steamed banana leaf and topped with crispy lime leaves. You should be able to taste waves of different flavors, Sang said. It starts with sweetness and saltiness, before moving to toasted crunchiness, and then spiciness. I couldnt have said it better myself. Amok sach morn is made with chicken marinated in Khmer spices wrapped in banana leaves, topped with crispy lime leaves and fresh herbs. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune) Other dishes embody comfort. The nom bah chok, one of Cambodias most popular noodle dishes, features minced tilapia in a coconut fish stock, with thin and wispy rice noodles to dip in. Considering Chicago only has two Cambodian restaurants, its understandable for customers to be unfamiliar with a dishes. Fortunately, the staff at Khmai is more than happy to walk you through the menu. Just know that because dishes arent prepared ahead of time, dont visit if youre looking for a quick dinner. While the shop is very busy, the staff is doing the right thing by limiting the number of guests, even though the dining room could seat far more. Sang is also looking out for her mom, making sure she doesnt work too much. Im like, youre 80, Sang said. You need to slow down. Considering how much work goes into preparing so many different dishes, part of me hopes Sang finds a way to slow down, too. Though there are no weak points, she could pare down the menu offerings by half to make the prep easier for herself. The menu also changes every two to three weeks, which adds to the complexity, though it certainly shows the depth of Sangs knowledge. But when I mentioned this to Sang on the phone, she didnt seem fazed by the long hours. This is important for me and for my community, Sang said. Weve been lost so long. Cambodian people have gone through so much, but we can stand on our own. We can make it. nkindelsperger@chicagotribune.com Advertisement Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining 2043 W. Howard St. 312-626-7710 Eat. Watch. Do. Weekly What to eat. What to watch. What you need to live your best life ... now. > khmai-fine-dining.com Tribune rating: Between excellent and very good, 2 stars Open: Tuesday-Friday, 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Prices: Small bites and appetizers, $7-$14; entrees, $14-$19; desserts, $5-$7 Advertisement Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with bathrooms on the first floor Noise: Conversation-friendly Ratings key: Four stars, outstanding; three stars, excellent; two stars, very good; one star, good; no stars, unsatisfactory. Meals are paid for by the Tribune. The Florida man who abruptly fired his lawyers, so he could cross-examine the ex-wife he kidnapped, raped and tried to murder was hit with a sentence of life without the possibility of parole Monday in a Tampa courtroom. Trevor Summers, 45, was convicted in August of all 11 counts against him for the torture of his then-estranged wife, Alisa Mathewson, who is also the mother of his five children. She was present for the sentencing, according to a court spokesman. In a bizarre twist, Summers decided to represent himself after Mathewson testified on direct that he took her hostage, hogtied her and sexually assaulted her during a terrifying two-day ordeal that began March 11, 2017, in which she thought she was going to die. A FLORIDA MAN ON TRIAL FOR RAPE OF EX-WIFE FIRES LAWYER AND CROSS-EXAMINES VICTIM The 43-year-old, who has since remarried, was grilled for hours by her abuser in Hillsborough County Circuit Court. "Did I threaten you to have sex?" Summers asked Mathewson, who was visibly uncomfortable. FLORIDA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF RAPING WIFE AFTER HE FIRES LAWYER SO HE CAN CROSS-EXAMINE HER "You broke into my home in the middle of the night when I was sleeping, attacked me and tied me up. Yes, I take that as you threatened me to have sex with you. You forced me to have sex with you," she said, growing increasingly more agitated. "You raped me!" Summers, in an eerily calm voice, asked, "So, you're calling it rape?" "That is the definition of rape!" she shot back. Summers hatched a murder-suicide plot after his wife of 16 years left him and began dating other men. He sent his children to his home, crawled through a window of Mathewson's house and tied her up with Christmas lights in the middle of the night. She testified that he raped her twice, smothered her with a pillow until she lost consciousness and strangled her with a rope all despite an order of protection barring all contact. Story continues The deranged father wrote goodbye letters to his children promising that their mom and dad would be watching from heaven but police closed in before he executed the final stage of his warped plan. After the trial ended, Mathewson told Inside Edition that she was horrified when she learned he'd be allowed to question her. "I felt sick to my stomach that he was going to do this, but I knew he would," she said. "He is a textbook narcissist." She said she believes he fired his attorneys, so he could torment her on the stand. "He wanted to cross- examine me," she said. "He wanted to have that moment in which to rattle me or just continue to abuse me." Summers couldn't immediately be reached four comment. FORT MYERS, Florida On Sunday morning, several dozen seniors trickled into a shattered Fort Myers church not far from where Hurricane Ian made landfall a few days earlier. Outside lay an overturned Jeep and dumpsters blown into a tree line. A nearby discount mall and a mobile home park lay in tatters. Power lines dangled over a road leading to Sanibel Island, cut off by a destroyed bridge. Under Southwest Baptists toppled steeple were soaked floors and holes in the roof. Bible pages fanned out to dry. In the chapel, displaced members slept on makeshift beds made of chairs and boiled water with propane burners. The church insisted on holding a service even if it had to be held outside for a vulnerable community thunderstruck by loss and trauma. Southwest Baptist Church in Fort Myers, damaged by Hurricane Ian, held on outdoor service on Sunday to offer solace for a community shaken by loss. As they arrived, the mostly white-haired retirees exchanged hugs and tears, happy to find solace and make sense of the disaster around them. Its terrible. We lost everything, said Emery Lewis, 78, whose house was destroyed. Were just fortunate this pastor has let us stay here. 'WE GET IT LAST': After Hurricane Ian hits Fort Myers, Black neighborhood residents say they arent counting on much help Each came with their own stories, and they poured out. Greg Wathan, 62, left his one-story home to flee in his truck but was cut off by the storm surge. As it rose, he climbed into the bed of his pickup truck. At one point, he spotted a struggling elderly woman beset by the current. He was able to reach out and pull her in. I dont know how she held on, he said. But he wasnt sure theyd live. I might not make it through this, he recalled thinking, his eyes welling up. Southwest Baptist Church in Fort Myers, damaged by Hurricane Ian, held on outdoor service on Sunday to offer solace to a community shaken by loss. Adelgarde Frazee, 82, said she was among those who had taken refuge at the church ahead of the storm. She went out to take a photo of the torrential waters and saw the surge nearly kill a man trying to drive away in his Jeep. It knocked his windshield out, threw him out of it. And he came floating down. He was fighting the current. He was trying to make it to the church stairs, she said. Story continues Sally Cole, 79, said she and her family were frantically packing bags in their neighborhood before a relative pulled her through strong currents, while her grandchild clung to her, toward their truck. We just got out. Just barely, she said. 'IT'S A NIGHTMARE, BUT WE'RE ALIVE': After Hurricane Ian, Fort Myers residents mourn low-lying neighborhoods Assistant Pastor Stephen Kasten said he urged his flock to evacuate, but some felt they would be safe in the church, which sits slightly higher than the surrounding land. I said, 'Please flee. Please leave.' But theyd rather be there, he said. The church, whose population of snowbirds means attendance falls from about 350 to 120 in the summer months, is a critical hub of community for the retirees and seniors that define the area of Fort Myers, Kasten and members said. Southwest Baptist Church in Fort Myers, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian, held on outdoor service on Sunday. The storm hit while the church works to rebound from financial struggles brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, which hurt attendance. Theyd just put in new lighting and sound. When Ian struck, the steeple was ripped off and a hole punched through the roof. Walls and carpets would need to be ripped out. All the offices, everything, is trashed, he said. The church is insured but with a $50,000 deductible. Thats already gotten a boost after a random donor from Louisiana came by and gave the church $10,000. IAN, FIONA SHATTERED HOPES FOR A QUIET HURRICANE SEASON: What's next? 'THEY NEVER TALK ABOUT EVERGLADES': A hardscrabble fishing community bands together after Hurricane Ian As Sunday's service began, a hot Florida sun heating up, Kasten told the small flock that it was no coincidence his guitar and Bible stayed dry. They took communion and sang songs including Count Your Blessings. Kastens father, Bob, the senior pastor, offered words of solace and encouraged people to lean on their faith. He said God had protected those who sheltered in the church: It was almost like the ark, he said. Southwest Baptist Church in Fort Myers, damaged by Hurricane Ian, held on outdoor service on Sunday to offer solace to a community shaken by loss. The steeple had been damaged in a previous hurricane then rebuilt to withstand such a storm. I don't think well rebuild it, he added. Afterward, those sheltering at the church like much of the citys residents displaced by the hurricane wondered what was next. We'll be staying here for a while. But my sons on his way down, said Geary Flener, 86. He and his wife of 65 years, Charlene, saw their nearby trailer damaged amid Ian's wrath. Most were just grateful to be alive. It's a thanksgiving that were here, said Jane Compton, 77. Were so fortunate. Chris Kenning is a national news writer. Reach him at ckenning@usatoday.com and on Twitter @chris_kenning. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ian survivors gather at Fort Myers church but don't know what's next Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflet has expressed his distaste at disrespectful Twitter users trying to allege the cause of the bands late drummer Taylor Hawkins death. Hawkins, who was 50 years old, died in March while on tour with the American rock band. He was found in a hotel room in Colombia, and the cause of death was ruled as cardiovascular collapse. Speaking as a guest on a recent episode of The Plug With Justin Jay podcast, Shiflett articulated his frustration with comments online surrounding his late bandmate. This one is very different because of the public side of it and theres so much internet sleuthing that people are doing and especially right after he died, said Shiflett. All these Twitter private investigators its all wrong. Theyre wrong about everything and thats been really strange to watch. The guitarist went on to explain that he had some understanding about peoples curiosity, but that many of the allegations and rumours have been disrespectful. Taylor was this big character and he meant a lot to millions of people all over the world, so on one hand I get that fascination with it, but its like so much of what Ive seen out there is so completely wrong, he said. I mean, theres people out there saying sh*t like Dave [Grohl] killed Taylor by making him get the COVID vaccine. Its just sh*t like that. Its like, Ah f*ck youre going to turn it into that? F*ck you! He went on to say that he tended to avoid focusing on those comments, although it does anger him: I try not to pay attention to any of that stuff, because who gives a fuck?...Its just some yahoo on Twitter, but it does make you angry because that shit is just disrespectful if you ask me. In September, fans flocked to Londons Wembley Stadium for Hawkins six-hour long tribute concert, which saw Grohl joined by many stars, including Paul McCartney, Liam Gallagher, Mark Ronson and Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis. During the performance, Grohl fans were left in tears as the musician started crying while performing Times Like These. Grohl broke down midway through the song after delivering the lyric: Do I stay or runaway and leave it all behind? This left his fans at Wembley, and those watching the live stream at home, feeling just as emotional. A former US Army combat medic and counterintelligence agent named Perla Huerta reportedly recruited migrants for Florida governor Ron DeSantiss controversial flights in September carrying Venezuelan asylum-seekers to Marthas Vineyard. Police officials, a lawyer, and migrants who encountered her pointed to Ms Huerta as the recruiter for the flights, The New York Times reports. Ms Huerta served tours in Afghanistan and Iraq and was discharged last month after two decades of service, the Times reports, citing her military records. It is unclear if Ms Huerta worked for the state of Florida or Texas. Texas governor Greg Abbott has said he was not involved in the migrant flights out of the Lone Star State. The Independent was unable to locate Ms Huerta for comment. The potential identification helps clear up one of the lingering mysteries about the flight: who recruited the nearly 50, mostly Venezuelan migrants, to board the flights. Migrants say they were promised work papers, jobs and even paid to board the flight and encouraged others to join them. A 27-year-old Venezuelan migrant named Emmanuel told San Antonio Report that a woman named Perla gave him $200 from an anonymous benefactor to recruit fellow asylum-seekers outside a city-run migrant centre in San Antonio, Texas, where the flights originated. Perla informed me that in those sanctuary states, the state has the benefits to help migrants, Emmanuel said. Ive just been the mediator because I like to help people.A lot of people really come without plans, they want to come and just work and they have a hand thatll provide them shelter, he added. I just saw it in that way, like a sweet way, doing it for good. They were even given a brochure making false claims about the Masachusetts Refugee Benefits theyd receive upon arrival in the East Coast. These brochures are not ours and not sure who prints or distributes them, at this point, office chief of staff Falah Hashem at the states refugee agency told The Independent. The migrants aboard the Marthas Vineyard flights have sued Governor DeSantis, calling the trips a fraudulent and discriminatory scheme. Former Scott County Coroner John Goble was sentenced to five years of probation in Scott County court Monday for perjury, according to his attorney Fred Peters. Court records state Goble committed perjury in May 2018 while testifying under oath to a Scott County Grand Jury. Court documents say he falsely told the grand jury he used his daughters vehicle to transport donor eyes from the Kentucky Eye Bank to a West Virginia eye bank when he actually unlawfully used a government vehicle belonging to the Scott County Fiscal Court, and did so for personal profit. Goble stated at that time he had a verbal contract with the eye banks, and transported the corneas between them. He added he was only used if there was a surgery the next day and there was no other way to deliver the corneas. The eye bank reported they utilized Gobles services twice, when commercial transportation was not feasible due to time constraints. In September Goble pleaded guilty to one charge of perjury after accepting a plea deal with prosecutors. The plea deal dropped several other charges: abuse of public trust, first-degree official misconduct, first-degree possession of a controlled substance, first-degree official misconduct and two counts of receiving stolen property. Goble was recently sentenced in federal court too Last month Goble was sentenced to a year of home incarceration after pleading guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government. Goble admitted that he conspired with Michael Crawford, a fellow former Kentucky State Police trooper, to secure weapons and nearly $40,000 worth of ammunition that belonged to the state police supply branch in Frankfort. Stolen ammunition was stored in the basement of Gobles office, according to the indictment. Goble had an employee move the ammunition from the office basement to Gobles home in December 2017. Crawford was convicted in a jury trial in the same case, according to court records. Reporter Taylor Six contributed to this report. Former Kentucky State Rep. Robert Goforth has been sentenced to two years and one month in federal prison for health care fraud and money laundering. U.S. District Judge Robert Wier imposed the sentence Monday at a federal courthouse in Laurel County. Goforth will have to pay $2.7 million in restitution for the fraud and $10,000 in fines. As of Monday, he had paid more than $1 million in restitution, according to court testimony. Hell also have two years of supervised release after hes out of prison. Goforth pleaded guilty in May 2022, admitting that a pharmacy he owned in Clay County billed insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, for prescriptions that customers didnt pick up, according to court records. The medication could then be put back on the shelf and sold again. The pharmacy multiplied profits by buying a dose of medicine once and then effectively selling it multiple times, according to Goforths plea agreement. Wier said in court Monday that he believed the sentence was fair and just. Wier said it should serve as a deterrent to others in the health care system that attempt to abuse the trust of others. This is the path to make things right, and to pay your debt, Wier said. You should hold your head high, and know your life is not characterized by this bad decision. It is part of it, but there are a lot of things you have left to say. You made a bad decision, you will pay for that decision. There is a lot left to be done in terms of the mark you will leave on the world. Goforth: I am ashamed. In a tearful statement before the sentence was determined, Goforth told Wier he was ashamed of what he had done, and offered a public apology to his victims and his family, who were present in the courtroom. I am ashamed of myself, he said. I tried to be a good role model, and all of the work I did will be tainted forever by the decisions I made to commit these crimes. He said he hoped this experience would be an example and learning lesson for his children that bad decisions would be met with consequences. Story continues The bad decisions do not define someone, he said. But how you make amends to the victims and remedy the situation does. Goforths attorney argued for lesser sentence Goforths attorney, Willis Coffey, asked the judge to take into account several factors which he believed warranted Goforth a reduced sentence of less than two years. Coffey said Goforth faced childhood trauma and overcame both physical and mental abuse that took place. He said Goforth was homeless at the age of 14, and only received school credit up until the eighth grade. Despite this, he went on to get his GED at 17, go to college, serve in the U.S. Army, get his pharmacy doctorate, start his business and run successfully for state representative. Coffey also brought up extensive charity work and donations made by Goforth, which the judge said he was not inclined to include as mitigation in the sentencing due to the fact Goforth was independently wealthy, and could have the opportunity to do that more than others. In addition, the judge made note that Goforth had improperly lined his pockets with tainted assets. Coffey also asked the judge to take into account that Goforths family would suffer greatly in his absence while incarcerated including his 8-year-old sons and his disabled brother. Wier again said this was not something that inclined him to a reduced sentence, because those dependents where there when he chose to willingly take part in crimes. Coffey cited two more reasons, including his willingness and quickness to repay his multi-million-dollar restitution, as well as his plans after he gets out of jail. According to his attorney, because his client had to hand over his pharmacy license, he can no longer practice in medicine. Goforth plans to become a CDL driver and open his own business after his release. There will be consequences for health care fraud Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Smith asked that the judge impose what he thought was a fair sentence, but also take into account a punishment that would not only hold Goforth accountable, but deter other health care providers from making the same choices. He said every American is impacted by the United States healthcare system, and that they put trust into those caregivers to help them in good faith. Smith said Goforth betrayed that trust. I ask that you impose a sentence that will show other providers when they have the incentive to cheat or make up for margins dont because there will be consequences, Smith said. He made note to the judge that Goforth had been fully cooperative since accepting his plea deal. Goforth will serve time for both federal, state offenses This was the second court case that Goforth was sentenced in this year. He previously faced charges in state court of first-degree strangulation and fourth-degree assault stemming from an incident that involved his wife, according to court records. Goforths wife told police that Robert Goforth tried to hog tie her during a domestic dispute, according to court records. She said he grabbed an ethernet cable from a kitchen drawer, wrapped it around her neck while she was face down on the floor, and strangled her to the point she was having trouble breathing, according to the citation. Goforths wife later said she didnt want to pursue prosecution against him. Goforth pleaded guilty to fourth-degree assault on July 14. The strangulation charge was dismissed. Under the plea deal, Judge Michael Caperton sentenced Goforth to 59 days in jail to be served at the same time as his sentence in federal court. Goforth is ordered to report because to the U.S. Marshalls office on November 18 to begin his prison sentence. The judge suggested he serve his sentence close to home at the Federal Prison Camp in Manchester, or Ashland. Goforth, a Republican, represented Jackson County and parts of Laurel and Madison counties in the state House before resigning in August 2021. Goforth also ran unsuccessfully for the GOP nomination for governor in 2019. His running mate that year was Michael Hogan, the longtime county attorney in Lawrence County. Reporter Bill Estep contributed to this story. Tom Barrack, a former advisor to former president Donald Trump, leaves U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York in a short recess during jury selection for his trial on September 19, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will testify in the trial of billionaire investor Tom Barrack. Barrack, who worked with Trump, is being charged with illegal lobbying. Prosecutors say Barrack tried to alter Trump speeches to make them more favorable to the UAE. Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is expected to testify in the trial of a former adviser to former President Donald Trump who is charged with colluding with the United Arab Emirates. In a letter submitted Saturday, billionaire investor Tom Barrack's lawyers indicate the Department of Justice called Tillerson to testify as a witness next week. Barrack's lawyers requested in the letter, reviewed by Insider, that Tillerson be called to the stand on Monday in order to have sufficient time to cross-examine him. Tillerson served under Trump between 2017 and 2018. Barrack is being charged with illegally acting as a foreign agent on behalf of the UAE, obstruction of justice, and making false statements to the FBI. Barrack was charged in July of last year and his trial began last week in Brooklyn, New York. Prosecutors say Barrack attempted to add language favorable to the UAE in Trump's speeches in order to sway officials on policies related to the country. Barrack informally advised the former president during his campaign and also served as a member of the President's Inaugural Committee under Trump. Representatives for Tillerson and the US Attorney's Office in New York did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider By Aziz El Yaakoubi RIYADH (Reuters) -The International Monetary Fund said on Monday that up to 20 countries, many in Africa, could need emergency assistance to cope with the global food crisis. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, speaking at a conference in Saudi Arabia, also said that 141 million people across the Arab world are exposed to food insecurity. The IMF on Friday approved a new food shock borrowing window under its existing emergency financing instruments to help vulnerable countries cope with food shortages and high costs stemming from Russia's war in Ukraine. Georgieva said that 48 countries around the world are particularly exposed to the food crisis. "Of the 48 countries, about 10-20 are likely to be asking (for emergency assistance)," Georgieva said, adding that "quite a lot of them" are in sub Sahran Africa. "We are here for you," she promised members at the event. The IMF will add its voice to fight food trade restrictions in order to ease the situation and plans to fund the food shock window using last year's Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocations. Countries across the Middle East region and beyond have stepped in to support states battling high food inflation and shortages made more acute by global geopolitical developments and the growing risk of a global recession. Georgieva said in a statement that Gulf Arab states "are planning to make further pledges soon" following the Arab Coordination Group's recent announcement of an initial $10 billion to alleviate the global food supply crisis. The IMF and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement on Monday to set up an IMF regional representative office in Riyadh. Ensuring social stability through adequate provision of basic foodstuff is a priority beyond the borders of those directly affected, said Alice Gower, director of geopolitics and security at London-based advisory Azure Strategy. "Staples such as wheat, rice and lentils are at risk of being inaccessible to food poor communities across the region," she told Reuters. "A desire for regional stability - and therefore security - has seen increased investment from states such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE in countries under financial strain." (Reporting by Aziz El Yaakoubi; writing by Rachna Uppal; editing by Philippa Fletcher and Susan Fenton) The cybersecurity workforce famously lacks diversity, but for Talya Parker, constantly seeing herself on pandemic-era video conferences as one of the few if not the only Black woman was a wake-up call. You always know that youre the minority in the room, but theres something different about being reminded of it visually every day, Parker said. And so, I said to myself, Well, what are you going to do about it? she added in a recent interview with The Hill. Parker, currently a privacy engineer at Google, said she started conducting a Facebook Live series called Black Girls in Cyber where she would invite other Black women in security, privacy and other STEM industries to share their journeys and experiences. The Facebook events became popular, garnering a lot of attention, prompting one of her peers to suggest that she start a nonprofit organization to address the diversity challenges in the cyber workforce. And so, she did. In 2021, she founded a nonprofit with the same name as her Facebook Live series, seeking to help women of color transition into cybersecurity, privacy and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers. The organization provides mentors, scholarships, training and networking opportunities for its members, often collaborating with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that offer cyber and STEM programs. The nonprofit also partners with corporations to create internships and full-time employment opportunities for members interested in pursuing careers in those fields. Were able to bring these women of color in front of organizations that they wouldnt otherwise have an opportunity to connect with, Parker said, adding that the industry faces widespread worker shortages, regardless of race and gender. That was the case for Akilah Tunsill, who transitioned from health care to cybersecurity after working for more than a decade as a nurse practitioner. Transitioning to cybersecurity from a 14-year healthcare career was a huge leapbut working with Black Girls in Cyber has given me a network of opportunity that I would otherwise be lacking, Tunsill said in a testimonial on the nonprofits website. Story continues Tunsill now works as a security analyst at Accenture Federal Services. Shes also an operational board member at the nonprofit, where she heads the cybersecurity curriculum. According to a report published last year by the Aspen Tech Policy Hub, only 4 percent of cybersecurity workers self-identified as Hispanic, and only 9 percent self-identified as Black. Meanwhile, women make up just 24 percent of the cybersecurity workforce. To tackle some of these challenges, the Biden administration hired Camille Stewart Gloster, a former Google executive, to join the White House cyber office to develop the nations ecosystem for tech talent including building a more diverse cyber workforce and strengthening cyber education. Stewart Gloster is also the co-founder of #ShareTheMicInCyber, an online movement aimed at addressing diversity issues in the cyber field. Parker said Stewart Gloster is a former colleague of hers and a friend, and that she was elated to hear of her recent hire at the White House. Prior to joining Google in 2021, Parker worked in the security risk management and privacy space for Deloitte, Nike and the Georgia Tech Research Institute. During that time, she also found time to earn a masters degree in cybersecurity from Brown University. Parker said she decided to pursue that degree because of the wide scope and range the field offers. She was also drawn to how the industry is constantly changing, particularly when it comes to laws and technologies related to cybersecurity and privacy. Theres all these different paths that you can take, and some of them continue to be developed today, Parker said. I think thats what kept me very curious, she added. But when she got into the industry, she soon realized that there was a lack of minorities, particularly Black women. There werent a lot of people who looked like me which also made me feel a sense of responsibility to continue down the path and try to be for others what I did not have in this space, like mentorship and guidance, Parker said. At the beginning, Parker said she often felt isolated from her peers, which led to her feeling unmotivated at times, adding that it didnt help having no one in leadership who looked like her. She says, however, she was able to find her path and build relationships with different individuals who appreciated the value of her work and created more opportunities for her to grow. Parker added that since the U.S. is a melting pot, the cybersecurity workforce should reflect the diversity of this country, including diversity of thought, skills and backgrounds. As for her organization, Parker said she hopes to expand it with more programs, partnerships and financial resources, and she wants to encourage more Black women to join. She added that the nonprofit will officially launch its privacy program next spring, and she hopes to have programs in the future on software engineering and product management. The organization also plans to host its first conference in Atlanta next fall. Im so glad it went from Why am I the only woman of color in the room? to What am I going to do about it? and then actually doing something about it, she said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. In a clear vote of confidence for Colombian director Juan Sebastian Mesa, Bordeaux-based Dublin Films has boarded his third film Lovers Go Home! The company also co-produced Mesas lauded sophomore pic, The Rust. Lovers Go Home! centers on a Colombian single mom who leads a double life as a webcammer. One day she meets a U.S. veteran online who becomes obsessed with her. He flies to Colombia to meet her in person. Their meeting makes them reflect on who they truly are. More from Variety In development, the project participated in this years Europe-Latin America Co-Production Forum, one of San Sebastian Film Festivals key industry events, which ran over Sept. 19-21. Deal was inked in San Sebastian by Dublin Films David Hurst and Colombian producer Federico Duran of Rhayuela Films who is in talks with potential partners in Spain and Canada. Mesa first gained international recognition with his feature debut, Los Nadie (The Nobodies), about five street punks who are also street artists in Medellin, which took home the Venice Film Festivals Critics Week prize in 2016. Shot in black and white on an alleged budget of $2,000, The Nobodies gave a rare glimpse of the world of anarcho-punks, which Mesa describes as one of the most enigmatic and radical movements of our time. The Rust, co-produced with Colombias Monociclo Cine, RTVC Play and U.S.-based Amplitud, follows Jorge who lives on the coffee farm he inherited from his father. Unlike others of his generation, he opts to live in the countryside. As his crops slowly rot from a severe plague, the arrival of his ex-girlfriend further upends his life. In other news, Rhayuela Films salsa biopic Rebellion, picked up by Latido Films, has clinched theatrical distribution in Peru via Tondero, by BF Distribution for Chile and Cineplex in Colombia, said Duran. We are in talks with streaming platforms for pan-regional distribution, he added. Story continues Rhayuela Films also has a development pact with Punta Fina, with various projects in the pipeline with one ready to go into production. It is also developing female sports-oriented factual projects with Spring Media. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Chicago band Divino Nino has a new album "Last Spa on Earth" to be released in a concert at Lincoln Hall in October. (Kelsey Hart / HANDOUT) It was unsurprising when beloved local rock band Divino Nino found a supportive national and international audience after the release of their debut album, Foam. In the five years since we last spoke to them, the band whose members include Camilo Medina, Javier Forero, Guillermo Rodriguez, Pierce Codina and Justin Vittori have gone on to release their debut LP; tour the world; and garner positive press or reviews from places like NPR, Rolling Stone and Pitchfork. But the band, bored by the sound that has made them so popular, decided to pivot for their latest record, Last Spa on Earth. Recording during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the album enthusiastically embraces elements of neoperreo, drum and bass, and other left-of-center genres for a body of work that is transgressive, propulsive and unique. Last Spa on Earth is out Sept. 23. The band next plays in Chicago on Oct. 9 at Lincoln Hall. Advertisement Work on the album began in 2019. However, the band said their earliest songwriting efforts were less fruitful than they anticipated. Most of the songs written during that time sounded too similar to their previous record, Foam, and did not end up on the new album. Many of the tracks were influenced by the experience of watching their peers perform live. Without the rush of live music, they turned to other sources of inspiration. I dont think we had grown enough musically, said Codina. Advertisement We had to go through a lot of songs that felt more connected to how Foam was sounding. We just did a lot of that until we were just kind of bored, Medina added. We have to go kind of crazy to be entertained and excited about it. Relieving their musical boredom came about through creative restrictions during the pandemic. One workaround was to create a creative bubble or pod for writing. The band members would isolate, take COVID tests and then meet for two weeks in a remote place. One location was a 20-acre property in rural Wisconsin. Another was a cabin in the Smoky Mountains. What was most critical for the group was the isolation from others. We wanted to make a lot of noise, said Codina. Without the worry of nosy neighbors (minus one or two who were curious about their screaming), the group was free to experiment. And experiment, they did. Few genres were off-limits. Their process soon became a far cry from how they originally wrote songs. In the past, one of the band members maybe Medina or Forero or Rodriguez would bring a song to the group in a more traditional band-songwriter dynamic. But without the capability to meet regularly, their few in-person meetups became an explosion of intense, feverish creation. Not knowing when theyd see each other again, they were less hesitant to showcase ideas about incorporating genres, particularly electronic-based genres, into their music. Neoperreo, a subgenre of reggaeton, became one source of inspiration. The genre, largely led by women, features empowering lyrics and experimental production. It didnt sound like mainstream reggaeton. It felt like [this] really obscure vibe, Medina added. So I think our way into reggaeton wasnt necessarily from the mainstream; it was from the weirdos. Thats honestly what Im personally the most attracted to. Like the weirdos, the ones who dont fit, doing the weird [stuff]. I like that. Another genre they were drawn to is drum and bass, a techno subgenre featuring fast-paced breakbeats and heavy bass lines. Although the group wouldnt classify the new record as drum and bass, they did say the genre was influential in exposing them to faster tempos, something they never considered too much when making music in the past. I wasnt confident that wed even have an album necessarily, Codina said. We didnt know if live music was going to come back during that time [and] we had no idea what [was] going to happen to the world. So it kind of felt a little more like high school, just like the love of doing it. The result is a record that is boundary-pushing, unclassifiable yet captivating from start to finish. Stripped of any pressure, the group was free to envelop themselves in fun, exciting, but not serious creativity. Advertisement What ended up being evolution was actually not intellectual, Medina said. It was very intuitive decision making. Divino Nino will have a record-release party (with Little Jesus) at 8 p.m. Oct. 9 at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave.; tickets: $25 (ages 18+) at lh-st.com Britt Julious is a freelance critic. (Reuters) - Georgia state officials said on Monday they were disappointed after a local court rejected a joint proposal to secure local incentives for Rivian Automotive Inc's $5-billion manufacturing plant in the state. "We remain undeterred in our efforts to bring high-paying, American manufacturing jobs to Georgia, and are currently assessing all legal options," the Joint Development Authority (JDA) of Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton counties and Georgia Department of Economic Development said in a joint statement. Morgan County Superior Court Judge Brenda Trammell on Thursday rejected the agreement between the local development authority and the Amazon.com Inc-backed EV company on grounds that the proposal did not appear feasible and failed to establish that it would promote the welfare of local communities. A Rivian spokesperson declined to comment. Rivian had announced in December its plans to set up the Georgia plant and had said at the time that it would be commissioned in 2024. The company has a plant in Normal, Illinois. The Georgia plant, with a proposed capacity to produce 400,000 vehicles a year and an expected workforce of more than 7,500, would gain incentives of $1.5 billion from the state, Georgia's Department of Economic Development had said in May. The development comes as Rivian faces hurdles to secure tax incentives for many of its current models under the new energy and climate bill passed by the U.S. Senate. The company said in August that it expected a wider-operating loss this year, but kept its target to produce 25,000 vehicles. (Reporting by Yuvraj Malik in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany, France, Denmark, Spain, Italy and the Czech Republic have submitted 16 proposals for new European Union sanctions against Iran for its violent crackdown on protests over women's rights, a German foreign ministry source said on Monday. The proposed measures would target people and institutions primarily responsible for the clampdown on nationwide protests that were ignited by the death in policy custody of a young woman, the source added. Those proposing the sanctions are aiming for the EU foreign ministers to decide on them at their meeting on Oct. 17, with no resistance expected from the members of the bloc, Spiegel magazine, which reported the news first, said. "We are now working flat out to implement these proposals," the source said. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Monday that Iran's suppression of protests was "an expression of sheer fear of education and the power of freedom" and promised sanctions. "It is also difficult to bear that our foreign policy options are limited. But we can amplify their voice, create publicity, bring charges and sanction. And that we are doing," Baerbock tweeted. The anti-government protests, which began at 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's funeral on Sept. 17 in the Kurdish town of Saqez, have spiralled into the biggest show of opposition to Iran's authorities in years, with many calling for the end of more than four decades of Islamic clerical rule. Iran Human Rights, a Norway-based group, has said more than 100 people have been killed. Iranian authorities have not given a death toll, while saying many members of the security forces have been killed by "rioters and thugs backed by foreign foes". Last week state television said 41 people had died, including members of the security forces. (Reporting by Riham Alkousaa and Alexander Ratz; editing by Philippa Fletcher and Mark Heinrich) Germanys RTL Group is holding on to its controlling stake in M6 Group, Frances second largest commercial TV entity. The decision, which was announced on Monday evening local time, follows RTL Group parent company Bertelsmanns strategic review of its options after the German broadcasting giant received several financially attractive offers for its 48.3% stake in M6. More from Variety Thomas Rabe, CEO of RTL Group, said: RTL Group has been a strategic shareholder in Groupe M6 for 35 years. Groupe M6 is one of the best-run TV companies in Europe with an excellent management team, led by its CEO Nicolas de Tavernost. In 2021, Groupe M6 achieved record operating results. We will continue to pursue our strategy to build national media groups of sufficient size to compete with the U.S. platforms. The company was believed to be courting offers from three major bidders. These include a vehicle comprising Xavier Niel, the French billionaire behind the telecom group Iliad who co-founded Mediawan, and former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconis MFE-MadeForEurope; as well as a consortium including Stephane Courbit, chairman of TV powerhouse Banijay, Rodolphe Saade, the French shipping billionaire, and Marc Ladreit de Lacharriere, chairman of the investment vehicle Fimalac; and lastly Czech businessman Daniel Kretinsky, who is a shareholder in Le Monde, the French newspaper, and recently lent 14 billion to Liberation, another newspaper. The group led by Courbit has offered an all-cash 20 ($20) per share for M6, valuing RTL Groups 48.3% stake in the French banner at 1.22 billion, according to several sources. Bertelsmann put M6 Group back on the market more than a week ago, after its planned merger with Bouygues-owned TF1 Group was abandoned due to a number of competition concerns raised by Frances anti-trust board. Story continues RTL Group said on Monday, however, that it considered the legal risks and uncertainties to be too high, due to the required approval processes from the antitrust and media authorities, and the timing for the upcoming license renewal for the main channel M6. (As The Financial Times reported, M6 Groups 10-year license expires in May and any renewal would have locked in its main shareholder, preventing a sale until at least 2028.) As such, the company has held off selling or reducing its 48.3% stake in the company. Nonetheless, RTL Group said that it remains convinced that market consolidation is necessary to compete with the global tech platforms and that market consolidation will happen in the European TV markets sooner or later. With a strong presence across TV, radio and streaming, Groupe M6 will play a key role in any further consolidation in the French TV industry. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin is less than a year into his governorship, but hes already making moves to be the GOPs next presidential nominee. His political style tries to have it both ways. He aims to be sufficiently middle-of-the-road in a crucial purple state, while also playing the culture-war hits to win over the MAGA base. Tiffany Smiley Would Be the GOPs New Star, but Shes in the Wrong State But it simply might not be possible to be the Goldilocks candidateserving porridge thats neither too hot nor too coldin the 2024 Republican primary. Campaigning with election deniers and cracking down on transgender kids have gotten the headlines, but the term-limited governor, who campaigned in a Daddy Knows Best reassuring red vest is (in plain sight) taking steps that will hurt voters in Virginias poorest counties where climate change is wreaking havoc with flooding. He is moving to withdraw Virginia from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a cooperative market-based effort among northeastern states to cap carbon emissions. Virginia is the only reddish state in the group, and Youngkin claims the RGGI is a bad deal and isnt necessary, even as conservative counties who voted for him in southwest Virginia have requested $2.6 million for flood relief from the cooperative. Youngkin complains about the cost to consumers (which is minimal, estimated at $2.39 a month and offset by energy efficiency projects), and he has openly doubted man-made climate changea crowd-pleaser among the GOP base. I dont know whats responsible for climate change, in all candor, Youngkin said when asked during last years campaign whether the actions of mankind are responsible, Im a pretty smart guy, but Im not that smart. His response on climate is emblematic of how he dodges issues that are problematic for him politically. Youngkin was elected governor in Virginia on the basis of being Trump-adjacent, says Stephen Farnsworth, a political science professor at the University of Mary Washington, sympathetic to the concerns of Trump voters without being the kind of dyed-in-the-wool culture warrior who would have crashed and burned in a Virginia election. Story continues Win McNamee/Getty Building a national Republican following requires a different mix, one tilted more towards Trump-centric issues and Trump-sycophantic candidates. This helps explain why Youngkin has rolled back protections for transgender youth and will be campaigning for Kari Lake, an election denier running for governor of Arizona. Were talking about a very precise calibration here, Farnsworth told The Daily Beast. Youngkin is making common cause with fellow Republicans against partisan enemies, including environmentalists, LGBT supporters, and supporters of woke education. The wealthy investor, a newcomer to politics, made parental concerns about critical race theory and gender identity a winning electoral strategy in Virginia, helping to set the agenda for the midterms. Rumors about his potential on the national scene began before he even took office in January, and Youngkin, limited by Virginia law to a single term, isnt wasting any time burnishing his MAGA-lite credentials. This week, he is hosting Republican donors at a two-day Red Vest Retreat at a luxury resort outside Charlottesville featuring panel discussions on education and a keynote address by former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Those attending are there to see if Youngkin has what it takes. Whatever comes next for Youngkin in elective or appointive politics depends on his ability to connect with the Trump base and elbow himself to national visibility on Fox and elsewhere, says Farnsworth. Youngkins move to the right on climate has gotten less attention but is equally alarming. Heres how RGGI works: Energy producers buy permits to emit carbon, and the amount of carbon overall is capped. The program delivered more than $220 million in revenues to Virginia in 2021, its first year joining the 11-state compact. GOP Candidates Strip Abortion and Trump Connections From Their Campaign Websites What is there not to like? RGGI was approved in a bipartisan vote in 2020 under Youngkins Democratic predecessor, and the program has delivered a 13 percent reduction in carbon emissions in its first year plus money for flood relief and energy efficiency. That didnt deter Youngkin, who issued an executive order on his first day in office to withdraw from the program. Pushback from local officials and environmentalists then forced him to take the regulatory route, publishing his administrations intent to take Virginia out of RGGI by the end of 2023. The comment period for the public to weigh in on the regulation to withdraw opened on Monday and goes through October 26. Removing Virginia from this program would sacrifice climate and health benefits and forego substantial funding to address flooding and energy efficiency, says Mandy Warner with the Environmental Defense Fund in Virginia, who vows, Its going to be a battle. Its an open question whether Youngkin has the regulatory authority to override a legislative initiative, but for an aspiring MAGA-lite politician, the effort matters more than the outcome. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Youngkins new guidelines for transgender students also opened for comment on Monday, as thousands of students across the state walked out of school to protest the draconian rules. Nearly 18,000 comments were recorded online in a little over 24 hours, reflecting the emotional intensity around the requirement that transgender students use the school bathroom aligned with the gender on their birth certificate, and that parental consent is needed to authorize any change in name, pronoun, or bathroom use. A poll just released by the Center for Leadership and Media Studies at Mary Washington University found that 41 percent of respondents said the governor should have less power over public schools. Twenty-five percent said he should have the same level of power he has now, and just 17 percent favored more gubernatorial power in education. These numbers indicate it would be wise for Youngkin to tap the brakes on some of his more controversial plans to re-shape public education in Virginia, says Farnsworth. Republicans Went From Pushing a Groomer Panic to Forcing Kids to Give Birth Youngkins approval rating is 45 percent with 30 percent disapproving, a respectable but far from stellar number for a newly elected governor in his first year. Its not impressive at all, says Larry Sabato, a political scientist at the University of Virginia. Most new governors in any state by this point are in the 60s or upper 50s. In Sabatos view, Youngkin is underperforming because he is well to the right of the Republican mainstream in Virginia. And yet nationally he cant compete with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Theyve filled in all the MAGA boxes with a black marker, while Youngkins is in pencil, says Sabato. Youngkin wants to be the Goldilocks candidate. But if he cant compete with DeSantis and Abbott, then hes not just the right temperature. And if hes too right-wing for respectable approval ratings in Virginia, hes not just right there, either. That sums up the Youngkin formulanot too hot to turn people off, not too soft to be accused of shrinking from MAGA, but just right for what he thinks the money people and the voters are looking for. But its not evident that theres a market for what Youngkin is selling. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Image of the coins found Archaeologists in Israel say 44 pure gold coins dating to the 7th Century have been found hidden in a wall at a nature reserve. Weighing about 170g, the hoard found at the Hermon Stream (Banias) site was hidden during the Muslim conquest of the area in 635, experts estimated. They said the coins shed light on the end of the Byzantine rule in the area. The Byzantine Empire was the eastern half of the Roman Empire, which survived for more than 1,000 years. "We can imagine the owner concealing his fortune in the threat of war, hoping to return one day to retrieve his property," said Yoav Lerer, director of the excavation. "In retrospect, we know that he was less fortunate." Apart from the gold coins, the excavation - in a residential quarter of the ancient city - also uncovered the remains of buildings, water channels and pipes, bronze coins and much more, Israeli authorities said. Dr Gabriela Bijovsky, a numismatic (currency) expert at the Israel Antiquities Authority, said some of the coins were of Emperor Phocas (602-610), but most were of his successor Heraclius. Banias has a particular place in Christian tradition, being the site where Jesus is said to have told the apostle Peter, "on this rock, I will build my church". CORRECTION: An earlier version of this report incorrectly described Dragonfly. Google has shut down its translation services in China, citing low usage in the mainland country. Google confirmed the move in a statement to The Hill on Monday after CNBC reported that the website dedicated to the translation service now redirects users to the Hong Kong version of the service. We are discontinuing Google Translate in mainland China due to low usage, Google told The Hill in a statement. Bloomberg News also reported that the Hong Kong version of the translation service isnt accessible in the area without a virtual private network. Google has struggled to gain traction in China amid competition from other web search engines, such as China-based Alibaba, and pulled its search engine from the country in 2010 due to strict censorship rules. The tech giant in 2018 also showed interest in creating a censored search engine, referred to as Dragonfly, in order to comply with Chinese speech restrictions and tap into the countrys market. The proposed initiative was pulled back after receiving criticism from local politicians and Google employees. Updated on Oct. 4 at 6:00 a.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Gov. Mike DeWine is pitching new ways to help pregnant Ohioans and children after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Against the backdrop of a looming abortion ban, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine is asking lawmakers to eliminate sales taxes on baby items and expand insurance coverage for lower-income mothers. On Friday, DeWine pitched several new ideas to make Ohio the best place in the nation to have a baby and raise a family," according to a news release. They included: eliminating sales tax on diapers, car seats, wipes, safety gear and other baby supplies. DeWine's office estimated that would cost the state $16 million a year. expanding Medicaid eligibility for pregnant women and children up to 300% of the federal poverty level an increase from the current 200% of the federal poverty level. If approved by lawmakers, single mothers making up to $54,930 a year or families of three making up to $69,090 a year would be eligible for Medicaid-covered prenatal, delivery and postpartum care. increasing paid maternity leave from six weeks to 12 weeks for state employees. expanding Medicaid insurance for adopted children even if their adoptive parents have private insurance. This would require federal approval. Some ideas would need approval from Ohio's GOP-controlled Legislature, which has championed some of DeWine's ideas while killing others. Republican lawmakers are poised to pass a near-total abortion ban later this year. DeWine spokesman Dan Tierney said it was too early to say what that final bill would look like and whether DeWine would sign it. However, DeWine signed the six-week abortion ban into law in 2019 and told supporters earlier this year that he wanted to "go as far as we can" to restrict abortion in Ohio. He has said little publicly about abortion while his Democratic challenger Nan Whaley makes it a key issue in her effort to unseat him. Tierney said DeWine would have pitched these ideas to help pregnant Ohioans and children even if the U.S. Supreme Court had not overturned Roe v. Wade. "This is separate from the abortion issue in our minds." Story continues House Democrats say some of DeWine's proposals look familiar. Democratic lawmakers previously pitched eliminating sales taxes on diapers and creating a program for safe sleep earlier this year. "To make Ohio truly the best place in the nation to have a baby and raise a family, Republicans need to stop procrastinating and act on proposals already in front of them," said House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington. She added that "families have seen their freedom to make their own healthcare decisions stripped away." How are Ohio mothers, children faring? Ohio had the 19th highest maternal mortality rate in the nation with 21.3 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation's review of data from 2018 to 2020. Ohio's infant mortality rate was 6.7 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2020, a decrease from previous years but still well above the Ohio Department of Health's goal of five or fewer deaths for every 1,000 births. Black mothers and children were more likely to die than their white counterparts, according to the state health department. Infant mortality in Ohio:Ohio still struggles with high death rates for infants and moms. Why can't we fix this? Jessie Balmert is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio governor Mike DeWine pitches sales tax break for baby items The six-foot-tall, red-and-yellow statue of a smiling bee has made its way to the heart of New York. On Aug. 18, shortly after being named the best chain fried chicken in the U.S. by Vox Media's food website Eater, Filipino fast-food restaurant chain Jollibee opened a flagship restaurant in the heart of Times Square in New York City. Located at 1500 Broadway between West 43rd and 44th Streets, the 7,000-square-foot space introduces the brand to mainstream American customers with an exclusive menu. Times Square is an iconic place here in New York and in the world. Its described as the crossroad of the world for a reason, so its a milestone for us. We aspired to be one of the top five restaurants in the world and this is a milestone in that journey, Luis Velasco, the senior vice president of marketing at Jollibee Group, tells NextShark. More from NextShark: Hong Kong-based food critic says Japanese omakase treats diners like idiots Jollibee, which is known for its Filipino sweet-style spaghetti and its crispy fried chicken, first made its way to the U.S. in June 1998 in Daly City, California. Its Times Square location marks the Jollibee Foods Corporations (JFC) 60th store in the U.S. and its 84th in North America. More from NextShark: TikTok video of woman kicked out of Korean BBQ restaurant for being alone has netizens divided Jollibee claims to be the largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant company in the world. As part of the companys aggressive overseas expansion plans, the JFC has a goal of managing 500 stores across North America by 2028. We started in the U.S. originally for a different reason, and that was to be available and accessible to the Filipino American market, Velasco shares. Over the years weve learned that people from different ethnicities and nationalities all over the world have come to love Jollibee. We always say great taste is universal wherever you are in the world. And thats what weve seen and observed. Story continues As the Philippine-based company hopes to capture the hearts of New York locals and tourists, Velasco also views the location as a milestone that represents the best of Filipinos while competing with iconic brands all over the world. More from NextShark: Asian Sixth Grader Allegedly Punched, Called 'Covid Starter' in NY Exclusive menu Besides serving its popular Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti and Peach Mango Pie, the flagship restaurant has introduced a new lineup of beef burgers, salads and sides exclusive to its Times Square store. More from NextShark: Andrew Yang Spotted Filming His NYC Mayoral Announcement Video Were constantly thinking about how to make Jollibee even better. Because we now have a broader consumer base that we appeal to the idea was we wanted it to appeal to almost everyone, Velasco says. The exclusive burgers include a Double Cheeseburger and Double Deluxe Burger with their own signature sauces. Also joining the lineup are the Crispy Chicken Salad and the Mandarin Orange Crispy Chicken Salad, which include chicken tenders, mandarin orange slices and dried cranberries served with a choice of ranch, honey mustard or sesame dressing. Their very own Baked Cheddar Mac and Cheese and Biscuits also joins its lineup of pies and sides. The evolution of Jollibee Velasco admits that their motive behind the new menu items was primarily to cater to the palate of Americans. He says that JFC is aiming to appeal to what consumers crave in America by creating their own versions of classic menu items. Filipino or not, he expresses hope that customers will ultimately come to love the spins on their favorite typical fast-food dishes. When asked if JFC was worried about losing touch with its Filipino roots, Velasco notes the importance of the brands evolution. Any brand goes through that in their history. The evolution will happen, but the culture and values dont change, Velasco says. We know what Jollibee is about. We dont want to stray away from being as authentic as possible to what Jollibee has been about for the last 40-plus years. Its still about great food, great value and great service. For many adults in the Philippines, Jollibee is often a nostalgic token reminiscent of childhood. The restaurant is known for its joyful service, which welcomes children and families to celebrate their lifes milestones, such as birthday celebrations. Jollibees restaurant ambiance focuses on radiating hospitality and family and fun, which were influenced by the Philippines own culture and principles. Our values are still the same. Were not suddenly some other brand overnight just because were now in Times Square. Were still the Jollibee that people know, Velasco says. Maybe the menu has changed a little bit, but our stores look like the Jollibee that you know, our service is still the same service that youve enjoyed in any Jollibee all over the world. Were proud to say that we know who we are and what we are about. The opening of the flagship restaurant on Aug. 18 saw a long line of Jollibee fans and first-time customers. The crowd buzzed with excitement when the dancing Jollibee mascot was brought out to entertain customers. Filipino adults reminisced about their childhood and seized the opportunity to take photos with the familiar anthropomorphic bee. Jollibee was met with joyful Filipinos who came from multiple different states, including Filipino American Mavis Ibasco, a 22-year-old registered nurse. Ibasco, who is from California, visited the opening with her father. The grand opening was really nice. I definitely feel like Im back home in the Philippines, Ibasco tells NextShark. The interior design of the restaurant, from its tables to its murals, are similar to what one would find in the same restaurant in the Philippines. Ibasco plans on moving to New York and was overjoyed to have the Filipino restaurant waiting for her. At the Times Square opening, she ordered the Crispy Chicken salad with the sesame dressing. I dont feel the Jollibee twist to it compared to the Jolly spaghetti, like thats staple Filipino food. This is a very Americanized version of Jollibee. Its not bad, but it doesnt take me back home, Ibasco says. Although customers mostly visit Jollibee for its chicken, Ibasco believes that Jollibees new salad is good enough alone for her to come back. Overall, I like that the restaurant is catering to the American palate. Its a nice way of introducing our culture to America, Ibasco says. Jollibee as a symbol of Filipino culture and values Velasco notes that Jollibee has never claimed to be authentically Filipino food; rather, the fast-food restaurants menu was developed to cater to the Filipino palette. He believes that what truly makes Jollibee Filipino is the experience of dining at the restaurant. Its more of the experience that is Filipino about it because of the value and experience, Velasco says. Its the connection either with friends or family. Its the togetherness. We like getting people together for a good meal. Its that connection that I think we are able to make which is what makes us Filipino." Velasco believes Jollibee goes beyond what is served. It is the idea of gathering friends and family together, whether it is after a Sunday mass or to celebrate a birthday or graduation party, that makes Jollibee a favorite for many. If youre a Filipino and you step into a Jollibee anywhere in the U.S., you feel like youve been transported back to the Philippines, Velasco shares. But if youre not a Filipino, wed also like to think that if you step into a Jollibee, youll feel the happiness that we can provide, the hospitality, the friendly service where everyone greets everyone a jolly morning or afternoon. Were not losing that because thats who we are. The best fried chicken When asked what he believes makes Jollibee the best chain fried chicken for many, Velasco credits their culinary and operation teams consistency all over the world throughout the years. He says that a lot of effort goes into marinating and delicately hand-breading the Chickenjoy to make it the right amount of crispy and flavorful. Were consistent. When you go to any Jollibee in the world, youll get the same great tasting Chickenjoy everywhere. Its not going to be different, Velasco says. Its one thing to develop a great recipe, but its another thing to be able to execute that in the way we envision it to be in each restaurant, he adds. You only get to taste what the restaurants are able to execute and thats important for us. No matter how great your recipe is, if you cant execute it, then customers wont taste whatever recipe you have. Its how you execute it in the restaurants. And thats something we take pride in because we work really hard in making sure that happens. Velasco looks around the restaurant and notes the joyful atmosphere of customers eating together. The flagship opening was visited not only by Filipinos, but by people of various ethnicities. Seats were filled with groups of friends and families, and even individuals sharing tables with strangers. Its something that we are very proud about. Weve always said that our company brand has always been about superior taste, Velasco says. Our mission is spreading the joy of eating through great-tasting food. We want to bring back joy when people eat. A lot of times eating can just be very functional when youre hungry, but you know through great tasting food, we think that we can bring back the joy that people experience in eating. All images via JFC ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece said on Monday it would welcome any Turkish request for a meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of a European summit in Prague this week. Long-simmering tensions between the two countries, which are North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies but historic foes, have flared anew recently with both countries accusing each other of treaty violations and provocations. Erdogan has accused Greece of "crimes against humanity", referring to its treatment of migrants, and of occupying islands in the Aegean Sea that have a demilitarised status. Athens says Ankara is challenging Greek sovereignty over the islands and is exploiting the migration issue, and it has accused Erdogan of "inflammatory" statements. "If the Turkish president... seeks such a meeting, the Greek side will evaluate it and respond positively," government spokesman Giannis Oikonomou told reporters. The inaugural summit of the European Political Community - a brainchild of French President Emmanuel Macron - will take place in Prague on Thursday and will focus on the Ukraine conflict and energy security. Non-EU countries including Turkey, Britain and Ukraine will join the 27 European Union member states. Mitsotakis has said that the last thing the region needs amid the war in Ukraine is another source of tension between Greece and Turkey. Greece and Turkey have been at odds for decades over a range of issues including where their continental shelves start and end, energy resources, overflights in the Aegean Sea and divided Cyprus. (Reporting by Renee Maltezou; Editing by Gareth Jones) Instructor Hiral Amin assists student Bozhena Shuhyta as fourth graders take part in an English language learners program at Liberty Elementary School in Bartlett on Sept. 30, 2022. Such programs received money from the states Evidence-Based Funding program. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune) A state program intended to deliver equitable funding for Illinois school districts in low-income communities was lambasted by critics who are asking lawmakers in Springfield for more than $1 billion a year to meet the new laws 2027 deadline to fully fund public education According to a recent report from the Partnership for Equity and Education Rights Illinois and the Education Law Center, despite five years of using the states new Evidence-Based Funding formula, 1.7 million students from 83% of Illinois school districts still attend underfunded schools. Advertisement The new statewide education justice coalition, PEER IL, was created to ensure the state is fulfilling its promise to provide Illinois public school students fully funded and fully resourced public schools, PEER IL officials said. When then-Gov. Bruce Rauner signed Evidence-Based Funding into law in 2017, the legislation aimed to comprehensively overhaul the states school financing system, PEER IL officials said. Advertisement According to the report, reaching the adequacy benchmarks put forth in the law requires more than $7 billion additional dollars in state funding to properly fund school districts in the state, with a goal of reaching full funding by 2027. By providing only the minimum required funding each year and no new funding in 2021 the state has underfunded EBF by $7.2 billion, PEER IL officials said. As one of the lowest-ranked public school systems in the nation, it is imperative that Illinois invest significantly more in the EBF formula now to prevent decades more of poorly resourced students in inadequately funded school districts throughout the state, said Naoma Nagahawatte, a Chicago Public Schools parent and a member of Raise Your Hand for Illinois Public Education. PEER (IL) believes all public school students in Illinois, no matter their race, family income or neighborhood, should receive an excellent, fully funded education, Nagahawatte said. Illinois families cannot wait any longer. According to the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability and the formulas adequacy calculations, the Vandalia Community School District should have received $21,500 from the state over the last five years for a Vandalia Community School kindergartner entering school in 2017, PEER IL officials said in a statement. At the current rate of funding from EBF, this same Vandalia student will be 28 years old before her school district begins to receive 90% of the promised funding in state and local dollars needed to provide Illinois public school students with an adequate education, PEER IL officials said. A spokeswoman for the Illinois State Board of Education said the state board is incredibly appreciative of Governor (J.B.) Pritzkers historic increases to public education funding. Since Evidence-Based Funding was enacted, schools have received more than $2 billion in increased funding, dramatically reducing the number of school districts funded at less than 60% of adequacy from 168 in 2018 to just two for the 2023 fiscal year, ISBE spokeswoman Jackie Matthews said in a statement. Advertisement Sixth graders Bao Nguyen Mai, , from left, Melana Melnikava, Bohdana Kocherzuk and Zuzanna Sobczak take part in an English language learners program at Liberty Elementary School in Bartlett on Sept. 30, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune) Although some have questioned why funding remained flat in 2021, Matthews said school districts received an additional $354 million that year in federal pandemic relief funds, which were distributed to districts using the EBF tier distribution formula. The Evidence-Based Funding formula is working, she said. While we have a ways to go before all school districts are fully funded, we have made extraordinary progress in just six years. Illinois lawmakers will enact a state budget that balances many different spending priorities, Matthews said. She added that the state board encourages anyone with a stake in public education to share their perspective on state funding. With ISBE currently conducting its annual call for funding requests to inform the boards public education spending recommendation for next year, Matthews said educators, parents and other community members can participate by submitting a funding request online and attending a budget hearing. Tony Sanders, superintendent of Elgin-based School District Unit 46, said that after the EBF law passed, the district has realized an increase of $78 million in state funding through the formula since 2018. The results to date have been transformational for our district, and had the formula not changed prior to the pandemic, we would have struggled significantly to serve students, said Sanders, who was among the Illinois educators advocating for the change in the states funding model. Advertisement Although the state committed to an increase of at least $300 million per year when the law passed, Sanders said funding remained flat in 2021. The faster we can get districts that are below their adequacy target to the levels necessary to serve their students, the better, Sanders said. U-46 remains the furthest from adequacy among all the large unit districts in the state, Sanders said. Under the EBF model, each district in Illinois has an adequacy target for what the state says the district should spend to meet the needs of its students, Sanders said. That amount is calculated using funding factors such as low-income rates, students with specialized needs, students who are English language learners and other criteria. Sixth grade students Asma Tenkhi, left, and Kevin Valerio take part in an English language learners program at Liberty Elementary School in Bartlett on Sept. 30, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune) Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. > In the annual Illinois Report Card, which this year will be released in late October, the state indicates what it considers a districts adequacy target, as well as how close that district is to being adequately funded. Advertisement U-46 is a Tier 1 school district because we are so far from our adequacy target, spending about 63% of what would be considered adequate, Sanders said. According to the Illinois Report Card for the 2021-22 school year, 57% of the 36,000 students enrolled in U-46 were from low-income families, and 37% were English language learners. At Chicago Public Schools, 78% of the 339,000 students who were enrolled during the 2021-22 school year were from low-income families, and 20% were English language learners, according to the report card. Chicago Public Schools aims to provide students with a safe, high-quality and equitable education, a CPS spokesman said. CPS has been working to distribute Evidence-Based Funds thoughtfully and strategically. CPS is funded at 74% of adequacy, an annual $1.4 billion shortfall, CPS officials said. kcullotta@chicagotribune.com The Aloft Green Bay hotel, 465 Pilgrim Way, in Ashwaubenon. ASHWAUBENON - An upscale Ashwaubenon hotel will be sold to the highest bidder in a mid-October auction after the hotel went into receivership this summer. Aloft Green Bay, 465 Pilgrim Way, in Ashwaubenon, will be sold to the highest bidder in an online auction scheduled for Oct. 17 to 19. The minimum bid? $2.5 million. The purchase is subject to a transaction fee based on the price. The LoopNet auction listing has been viewed more than 450,000 times since being posted Sept. 1. Representatives of Paramount Lodging Advisors, the sale's advisors, did not respond to emailed requests for comment. The sale results from a Jan. 28, 2021, mortgage foreclosure filed in Brown County Circuit Court. Wilmington Trust and Morgan Stanley Bank loaned the hotels owner, AB Hospitalities LLC, $9 million to build the hotel. Wilmington claimed AB Hospitalities did not make required monthly payments from August 2020 through January 2021. At the time of filing, it said AB Hospitalities owed more than $8.2 million plus interest, costs and taxes. An attorney for Wilmington declined to comment. An attorney for AB Hospitalities did not respond to emailed requests for comment. The civil complaint requested the appointment of a receiver to manage and maintain the property until it could be sold. The case documents show Brown County Circuit Judge Beau G. Liegeois appointed Philadelphia-based GF Hotels to serve as the propertys first receiver in February 2021. The company managed the property, negotiated a new franchise agreement with Marriott International, owners of the Aloft brand, and paid $41,000 in delinquent Brown County lodging room taxes. GF Hotels, according to its website, counts more than 120 hotels among its portfolio and has an expertise in loan workouts and receiverships. The case continued into 2022 and in June, Wilmington Trust requested Liegeois appoint a new receiver to sell the hotel. The financiers claimed AB Hospitalities' did not have enough assets to pay its expenses, taxes and the $8.2 million loan balance. Story continues In July, Liegeois appointed Michael Polsky to serve as receiver of the property and business under Chapter 128 of state law, which serves as an alternative to bankruptcy protection for businesses struggling to pay creditors. On Aug. 5, Polsky filed a notice of receivership and set a Nov. 4 deadline for AB Hospitalities' creditors to file claims with Judge Liegeois office. Built in 2009, the 105-room, four-story Aloft features a daily room rate of $108, per the auction listing. The hotel amenities include a business center, fitness center, swimming pool, hot tub, patio and bar. Brown County property records indicate the hotels 2.5-acre parcel has an assessed value of $7.7 million and a fair market value of $8.2 million. The hotel sale includes the new license agreement with Marriott International Inc. for the Aloft brand but does not include any debt or property management contract. There are more than 160 Aloft-branded hotels in North America and more than 210 worldwide. The chain features modern design and technology-focused amenities in order to appeal to business travelers. Contact Jeff Bollier at (920) 431-8387 or jbollier@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JeffBollier. More: Bosse's Newsstand, a downtown Green Bay fixture for 124 years, has found a new home outside the city More: Brown County weighs $27 million loan to get high-speed internet in rural areas. Here's what we know. This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Green Bay area hotel up for auction with $2.5 million starting bid Two Guatemalan men pleaded guilty last week to operating a "prolific alien smuggling organization" out of Texas after a migrant womans body was found abandoned in a trailer with other illegal immigrants. Armando Gael-Galicia, also known as Artemio Diego Andres Gonzalez and Luis Moreno-Gonzalez, 26, and Jose Diego Tercero-Gonzalez, 22, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday in the Western District of Texas to conspiracy to transport and harbor aliens for financial gain and resulting in death. The Department of Justice said both men are Guatemalan nationals who were living in Texas. At sentencing, each will face a statutory maximum penalty of life in prison, the DOJ said. FEDS HUNT NEW HAMPSHIRE FUGITIVE IN CHILD SEX ASSAULT PATTERN SPRUNG ON $3K BAIL AFTER HIDING OUT IN MEXICO This file photo shows a migrant family sitting after being processed on May 5, 2022, in Roma, Texas. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's "Operation Lone Star" directed approximately 10,000 members of the National Guard to assist law enforcement with patrol and border apprehensions. Brandon Bell/Getty Images In early May 2021, the body of a young indigenous Guatemalan woman was discovered in a remote area just outside of Odessa, Texas. Three months later, Gael-Galicia and Tercero-Gonzalez were arrested on Aug. 23, 2021, in or near 910 Coyochic Avenue -- the location of the trailer where the victim was taken and died. Inside the trailer were additional migrants who had entered the country illegally, detailed ledgers, and more than 100 cell phones, according to federal prosecutors. "Pursuant to their guilty pleas, the defendants admitted that they operated a prolific alien smuggling organization and were responsible for the transportation of the migrant who died," the DOJ said. The investigation is related to the recent arrests and indictments of four people in Guatemala. In August, Guatemala authorities arrested Felipe Diego Alonzo, also known as Siete, 38; Nesly Norberto Martinez Gomez, also known as Canche, 37; Lopez Mateo Mateo, also known as Bud Light, 42; and Juan Gutierrez Castro, also known as Andres, 45; pursuant to requests for their extradition by the United States, according to the Justice Department. This file photo shows migrants, mostly from Venezuela, queue to board a bus to New York at the Migrant Welcome Center managed by the city of El Paso and the Office of Emergency Management, in El Paso, Texas, on September 16, 2022. REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez The four allegedly conspired with other smugglers to facilitate the travel of large numbers of migrants from Guatemala through Mexico and, ultimately, to the United States, charging the migrants and their families approximately $10,000 to $12,000 for the perilous journey. Story continues In addition to the prolific smuggling of migrants to the United States, the accused human smugglers targeted in the August 2022 operation are alleged to be responsible for the death of the same indigenous Guatemalan woman transported by Gael-Galicia and Tercero-Gonzalez. This investigation was coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), which was created by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the DOJs "overall efforts to combat these crimes based on the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling emanating from Central America and impacting our border communities." "Through extensive coordination with our U.S. Attorneys Office and law enforcement partners, yesterdays guilty pleas emphasize JTFAs comprehensive mission to leave no stone unturned in its efforts to hold accountable all those who treat human life like a commodity," Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Departments Criminal Division said in a statement on Friday. Hackers have released a cache of data stolen during a cyberattack against the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) in what appears to be the biggest education breach in recent years. Vice Society, a Russian-speaking group that last month claimed responsibility for the ransomware attack that disrupted the LAUSD's access to email, computer systems and applications, published over the weekend the data stolen from the school district. The group had previously set an October 4 deadline to pay an unspecified ransom demand. The stolen data was posted to Vice Societys dark web leak site and appears to contain personal identifying information, including passport details, Social Security numbers and tax forms. While TechCrunch has not yet reviewed the full trove, the published data also contains confidential information including contract and legal documents, financial reports containing bank account details, health information including COVID-19 test data, previous conviction reports and psychological assessments of students. Vice Society, a group known for targeting schools and the education sector, included a message with the published data that said the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the government agency assisting the school in responding to the breach, "wasted our time." In an email, Vice Society told TechCrunch that CISA allegedly stalled the release of data and that CISA was "wrong" to advise LAUSD not to pay the ransom demand. (CISA and the FBI have long discouraged victims from paying the ransom as to not "embolden adversaries to target additional organizations.") "We always delete documents and help to restore network [sic], we don't talk about companies that paid us," the cybercriminals said. "Now LAUSD has lost 500GB of files." CISA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. LAUSD superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho confirmed the release of stolen data in a statement posted to Twitter on Sunday, along with announcing a new hotline starting Monday morning (855) 926-1129 for concerned parents and students to ask questions about the cyberattack. Story continues Thank you to our students, families and employees for doing their part in the ongoing recovery from this cyberattack. pic.twitter.com/K8VhiFmSbL Alberto M. Carvalho (@LAUSDSup) October 2, 2022 Just hours before the public release of the stolen data, LAUSD posted a statement on Friday in which it confirmed it would not pay Vice Societys ransom demand, the amount of which remains unknown. It is important to note that this investigation is ongoing," the statement said. "Los Angeles Unified remains firm that dollars must be used to fund students and education. Paying ransom never guarantees the full recovery of data, and Los Angeles Unified believes public dollars are better spent on our students rather than capitulating to a nefarious and illicit crime syndicate. LAUSD said it is working with law enforcement to determine what information was impacted and to whom it belongs. The district did not say if it knows what data it expects to be released. LAUSD is the second largest district in the United States with more than 1,000 schools and 600,000 students. LAUSD spokesperson Shannon Haber declined to comment beyond Friday's statement. According to Brett Callow, a threat analyst at Emsisoft, the Vice Society ransomware gang has attacked at least eight other U.S. school districts, colleges and universities so far in 2022. The gang has previously been the subject of a warning from CISA and the FBI, which said Vice Society is disproportionately targeting the education sector with ransomware attacks. LAUSD said that it "continues to deal" with the cyberattack and is "making progress toward full operational stability for several core information technology services." Some educational institutions targeted by ransomware don't recover at all: Lincoln College, established in 1865, recently announced that it was closing its doors after a ransomware attack disrupted the admission process last December. (Reuters) - The military commissar of Russia's Khabarovsk region was removed from his post after half of the newly mobilised personnel were sent home as they did not meet the draft criteria, the region's governor said early on Monday. Russia's first mobilisation since World War Two, declared by President Vladimir Putin on Sept. 21, has led to widespread discontent among officials and citizens over the way the draft has been handled, including complaints about enlistment officers sending call-up papers to clearly ineligible men. [ "In 10 days, several thousand of our countrymen received summons and arrived at the military registration and enlistment offices," Mikhail Degtyarev, the governor of the Khabarovsk region in Russia's Far East, said in a video post on the Telegram messaging app. "About half of them we returned home as they did not meet the selection criteria for entering the military service." Degtyarev said the removal of the commissar, Yuri Laiko, would not affect the mobilisation plan set by Putin. The chaotic mobilisation of men to fight in Ukraine has also prompted thousands of fighting-age men to flee from the country to avoid a draft that was billed as enlisting those with military experience and specialities but has often appeared oblivious to service records, health, student status and even age. Some 2,000 people have been arrested at anti-war protests in more than 30 towns and cities, and some of them promptly given call-up papers - something the Kremlin said was perfectly legal. (Reporting in Melbourne by Lidia Kelly; Editing by Robert Birsel) After bags of heart-shaped Valentines Day candy found inside a mans car led to his arrest on a drug charge, he decided to sue police in New Jersey, according to a federal lawsuit. Fernando Saint-Jean, of Massachusetts, says he was falsely charged with possession of MDMA/ecstasy after officers found the candy inside his car during a traffic stop in New Jersey, court documents state. However, lab test results proved that the pastel-colored candy, commonly found in stores around Valentines Day, did not contain illegal substances more than two months after Palisades Interstate Parkway Police officers arrested Saint-Jean in May 2018, court documents state. As a result, Saint-Jean filed a false arrest lawsuit against officers and the Palisades Interstate Parkway Police department in 2019, but it was put on pause until an appeals court resolved the defendants appeal, according to court records. After a federal court in New Jersey rejected the officers request for qualified immunity which can protect government officials facing lawsuits the officers filed a notice of an appeal to challenge the district courts decision. The case subsequently rose to an appeals court. Now, Saint-Jeans federal lawsuit can continue after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit concluded it does not have jurisdiction over the officers appeal challenging the rejection of the request for qualified immunity, a written opinion from Sept. 23 states. McClatchy News contacted attorneys representing the defendants and the Palisades Interstate Parkway Police department for comment on Oct. 3 and was awaiting a response. Origins of the case On May 6, 2018, Saint-Jean was driving home to Massachusetts, with his uncle as a passenger, after attending a family birthday celebration in Elizabeth, New Jersey, according to an amended complaint. While driving along the Palisades Interstate Parkway and abiding by the speed limit, Saint-Jean was pulled over by a police officer without legal justification, the amended complaint states. Saint-Jeans lawsuit argues he was pulled over for no reason other than his race as a Black man. Story continues While speaking with the officer, Saint-Jean said he is originally from Haiti but is a U.S. citizen living in Massachusetts, as corroborated by his state license plates and drivers license, according to the amended complaint. The officer told Saint-Jean he was pulled over for driving too slow and for having tinted windows. After other Palisades Interstate Parkway police officers arrived at the scene, they told Saint-Jean and his uncle to step outside of the vehicle before patting down Saint-Jean and searching his car without legal basis, the complaint states. Inside the car, they found bags of Valentines Day sugar candies that Saint-Jeans co-worker had previously given him, according to the complaint. The candies had written words on them such as call me, laugh and true love. Saint-Jean offered to provide police with his co-workers contact information to verify it was candy, but they refused and arrested him for possession of a controlled substance and a traffic infraction for having tinted windows, the complaint states. The intake process at the police station included photographing and fingerprinting Saint-Jean; it did not involve administering any tests on the small, heart-shaped objects, the appeals court wrote in its opinion, adding that the prosecution of Saint-Jean ensued. On July 27, 2018, a drug analysis conducted by state police confirmed that the candies were not illegal drugs, according to the amended complaint. After the heart-shaped objects were lab tested over two months later, the truth came out: they were just candies, the appeals courts opinion states. Even with that knowledge, it still took nearly four additional months to drop the charges against the driver. Saint-Jean filed an initial complaint, alleging false arrest and malicious prosecution, against the officers in April 2019 before his amended complaint was filed in January 2021, court records show. Officers sought to dismiss the complaint by raising qualified immunity defenses, but the District Court of New Jersey rejected their requests for qualified immunity, according to the appeals courts written opinion. Specifically, qualified immunity protects a government official from lawsuits alleging that the official violated a plaintiffs rights, only allowing suits where officials violated a clearly established statutory or constitutional right, according to Cornell Law School. Saint-Jeans lawsuit argues that the officers violated his Fourth and Fourteenth amendment rights in connection with the alleged false arrest and malicious prosecution. The officers filed a notice of appeal to challenge the District Courts denial of qualified immunity under federal and New Jersey law. But before the officers appealed, the driver had amended his complaint, the court wrote. Due to that prior amendment, the District Courts order was not final when the officers appealed. As a result, the officers appeal was reviewed by the appeals court, which dismissed it, according to the opinion. In filing the lawsuit, Saint-Jean is seeking at least $60 million as relief for damages and attorney fees, the complaint states. Woman gives birth alone in dirty jail cell as nurses ignore her screams, lawsuit says Family of man paralyzed in back of police van files $100M lawsuit in CT, attorney says Woman who called 911 on Black birdwatcher in viral video loses suit against ex-employer To view past editions of The Hills 12:30 Report, click here: https://bit.ly/30ARS1U To receive The Hills 12:30 Report in your inbox, please sign up here: https://bit.ly/3qmIoS9 > A midday take on whats happening in politics and how to have a sense of humor about it.* *Ha. Haha. Hahah. Sniff. Haha. Sniff. Habreaks down crying hysterically. TALK OF THE MORNING To misquote Billy Madison Back to school. Back to school, to prove to [everyone] that Im not a fool: The Supreme Court begins its new term on Monday, with new Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson on the bench. What to expect this term a continuation of the last: After a controversial term of revoking federal abortion rights and expanding Second Amendment and religious rights, the courts six conservative justices are expected to continue with a set of contentious cases. Here are five controversial cases to watch this term think: affirmative action, LGBTQ discrimination and election law via The Hills John Kruzel NEWS FROM THE COURT: The Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear a case about whether the Justice Department can use filter teams, such as the one enlisted by DOJ to begin a review of evidence collected at former President Trumps home in Mar-a-Lago to determine whether they are privileged. More from The Hills Julia Mueller Its Monday and the D.C.-area has immediately snapped into fall mode. Im Cate Martel with a quick recap of the morning and whats coming up. Did someone forward this newsletter to you? Sign up here. In the White House Happening this week: President Biden is visiting Puerto Rico on Monday to survey the damage from Hurricane Fiona. Biden will visit Florida later this week following Hurricane Ian. During Bidens Puerto Rico visit: He will announce more than $60 million in funding to help the island protect itself from future storms. Where is this money coming from?: The bipartisan infrastructure law Story continues TIDBIT JILL BIDEN IS TAKING A WALK DOWN SESAME STREET: The Washington Posts Olivier Knox tweeted that First Lady Jill Biden will be on Sesame Street on Dec. 1. In Congress An escape room for the Jan. 6 findings, if you will: House Democratic leaders will face heavy political pressure and a tight time crunch to vote this year on election reform recommendations soon to arrive from lawmakers investigating last years attack on the U.S. Capitol. When the recommendations after expected: After the Nov. 8 midterms ^ So, then: That will leave Democratic leaders with a short window to draft legislation, rally support and send the reforms to the Senate all in a lame-duck session when theyll also face a crucial deadline to extend federal funding and prevent a government shutdown. And even further complicating that window: The House is expected to shift to Republican control next year, a party that, for the most part, opposes the select committees investigation. How long will the House be in session after the midterms?: For 17 days, though that can change. How this could go down, via The Hills Mike Lillis Interesting read They Legitimized the Myth of a Stolen Election and Reaped the Rewards: On the day the Capitol was attacked, 139 Republicans in the House voted to dispute the Electoral College count. The New York Timess Steve Eder, David D. Kirkpatrick and Mike McIntire look into how the U.S. got to this point. At the time: The Republican members of the House of Representatives braced for a backlash. Two-thirds of them 139 in all had been voting on Jan. 6, 2021, to dispute the Electoral College count that would seal Donald J. Trumps defeat just as rioters determined to keep the president in power stormed the chamber. Now one lawmaker after another warned during a conference call that unless Republicans demanded accountability, voters would punish them for inflaming the mob. Where we stand now: More than 20 months later, the opposite has happened. The votes to reject the election results have become a badge of honor within the party, in some cases even a requirement for advancement, as doubts about the election have come to define what it means to be a Trump Republican. The full NYT read OK, so its 2023, Republicans won the House and are investigating Biden in any way they can. What does this mean for Democrats?: The White House may not be that worried, reports Politicos Eugene Daniels, Jonathan Lemire and Jordain Carney. How so?: There is a growing confidence in the White House that the House Republicans clamoring for a hodgepodge of investigations will overreach and that their attempts will backfire politically, with key voters recoiling at blatant partisan rancor. How Dems believe this would play out in 2024: Officials believe they can use GOP efforts to their political advantage heading into the 2024 cycle, betting a pro-Trump Republican conference fixated on Biden will elevate ultra-MAGA Republicans and provide a useful foil for Biden, allowing him to draw sharp contrasts between his governing and their obfuscating. What kind of investigations are we talking about?: Members have made it clear they believe digging into the business dealings of the presidents son, Hunter Biden, is at the top of the agenda Also ranking high, a coronavirus origins probe that would put Anthony Fauci in the hot seat and a multi-committee dive into the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan last year that sparked bipartisan criticism. What to expect if Republicans win control of the House Midterm headlines APOCALYPSE NOW: DEMOCRATS EMBRACE A DARK MIDTERM MESSAGE: And so have Republicans, writes The Washington Posts Yasmeen Abutaleb, How Democrats and Republicans are running on apocalyptic messages TICKET-SPLITTING VOTERS WERE GOING EXTINCT. NOW THEY MAY DECIDE 2022S BIGGEST RACES.: Think: Georgia, New Hampshire and Ohio. The full story from NBC NewssSahil Kapur, Allan Smith and Jonathan Allen FROM WSJ TRUMPS DEATH WISH RHETORIC: The Wall Street Journals editorial board writes that [Trumps] latest tirade against Mitch McConnell courts potential violence. The full WSJ editorial slamming Trump CAN REPUBLICANS PULL OFF AN UPSET IN COLORADOS SENATE RACE?: Via The Hills Carolina Vakil Latest with COVID If you havent gotten your COVID-19 booster yet: CNBCs Annika Kim Constantino writes How to perfectly time your new omicron-specific Covid booster. Timing of the boosters effectiveness: Vaccine protection slowly ramps up over two or three weeks post-injection: If you get your shot on October 1, you can probably expect its defenses to be fully kicked in by mid- or late-month. That protection typically lasts about three or four months before beginning to wane. When you should get your booster If you havent had COVID-19 recently versus if you have THE COVID-19 NUMBERS Cases to date: 96.1 million Death toll: 1,053,789 Current hospitalizations: 21,934 Shots administered: 619 million Fully vaccinated: 67.9 percent of Americans CDC data here. Notable tweets It is remarkable how similar she looks now: Former President Obama tweeted, Miche, After 30 years, Im not sure why you look exactly the same and I dont. I do know that I won the lottery that daythat I couldnt have asked for a better life partner. Happy anniversary, sweetheart! Photo from their wedding day Yikes, this could be an ad for this window company: Twitter user @bothcoasts tweeted, We live on the beach in Naples, Florida. We stayed through the Hurricane Ian. Thought Id share a rather notable photo from the experience The photo On tap The House and Senate are out. President Biden is in Puerto Rico. Vice President Harris is in Washington, D.C., with no public events scheduled. 10:10 a.m. : Biden and first lady Jill Biden left for Puerto Rico. Photo of the Bidens boarding Air Force One 2:30 p.m. : Biden receives a briefing in Puerto Rico. 3:30 p.m. : The Bidens visit Centro Sor Isolina Ferre Aguayo School. 4:50 p.m.: The Bidens leave Puerto Rico and fly back to Washington, D.C. All times Eastern. What to watch Noon : White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks with reporters aboard Air Force One. Livestream 2:45 p.m.: Biden delivers remarks in Puerto Rico. Livestream In lighter news Today is National Soft Taco Day. And to leave you on a terrifying note, here is one of the scariest beasts in the world. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A rise in threats against election workers has pushed many to quit over concerns for their safety ahead of the November elections. Meanwhile, well dive into one womans journey to help women of color get their start in cybersecurity. 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. Subscribe here. Rise in threats sparks shortage of election workers Officials warn the U.S. is facing a shortage of election workers ahead of the November midterms due to a rise in threats against those performing such jobs that experts link to false claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 election. In an interview last month, Kim Wyman, senior election security lead at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), said because of those threats 1 in 3 elections officials and poll workers have quit their positions over fears for their safety, and state officials are having a hard time hiring for such positions. Experts attribute this problem to inflammatory rhetoric stemming from unfounded claims that the 2020 presidential election was rigged and elections officials were complicit. Our elections have become very contentious, said Jamil Jaffer, founder and executive director of the National Security Institute at George Mason Universitys Antonin Scalia Law School. Jaffer said the country is witnessing a situation where conflict between political parties is now affecting the work of election workers, many of whom are retirees volunteering their time to count votes. Instead of respecting that civic duty, now people are taking out their frustrations and anger in politics on these election workers, Jaffer said. And thats a real problem. Read more here. Google engineer carves path for Black women in tech The cybersecurity workforce famously lacks diversity, but for Talya Parker, constantly seeing herself on pandemic-era video conferences as one of the few if not the only Black woman was a wake-up call. Story continues You always know that youre the minority in the room, but theres something different about being reminded of it visually every day, Parker said. And so, I said to myself, Well, what are you going to do about it? she added in a recent interview with The Hill. Parker, currently a privacy engineer at Google, said she started conducting a Facebook Live series called Black Girls in Cyber where she would invite other Black women in security, privacy and other STEM industries to share their journeys and experiences. The Facebook events became popular, garnering a lot of attention, prompting one of her peers to suggest that she start a nonprofit organization to address the diversity challenges in the cyber workforce. Read more here. SUPREME COURT TO TAKE UP SECTION 230 The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear two cases this term on whether social media companies can be held financially responsible for hosting terrorist content. The family of Nohemi Gonzalez, a 23-year-old U.S. citizen killed during a 2015 series of Islamic State terror attacks in Paris, sued YouTube parent company Google, arguing the video sharing site not only provided a platform for videos containing terrorist content, but also recommended the videos to users. The family alleges that YouTube algorithms allowed hundreds of radicalizing videos inciting violence and recruiting potential supporters to be targeted to users of the platform. Section 203(c)(1) of the Communications Decency Act says companies like YouTube, Google and Twitter are generally shielded from liability for information uploaded by their users, but the case, Gonzalez v. Google, asks whether it should apply when tech companies make targeted recommendations. A judge dismissed the case, and the family appealed to the Supreme Court. The second case the Supreme Court agreed to hear, Twitter v. Taamneh, involves the 2017 death of Jordanian citizen Nawras Alassaf during an ISIS-affiliated attack in Istanbul. Read more here. KEEPING UP WITH CRYPTO SETTLEMENTS The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Monday announced a $1.26 million settlement with Kim Kardashian for promoting a cryptocurrency while not disclosing the company paid her for the promotion. The SEC said online cryptocurrency company EthereumMax paid Kardashian $250,000 for publishing an Instagram post on June 13, 2021, touting the companys selling of Emax tokens, but Kardashian did not disclose the payment, in violation of the Securities Act. This case is a reminder that, when celebrities or influencers endorse investment opportunities, including crypto asset securities, it doesnt mean that those investment products are right for all investors, SEC Chair Gary Gensler said in a statement. We encourage investors to consider an investments potential risks and opportunities in light of their own financial goals. Read more here. BITS & PIECES An op-ed to chew on: What Hurricane Ian shows us about news, real and manufactured Notable links from around the web: Silicon Valley County Battles With Uber Over Reporting of Sexual Assault (The New York Times / Cade Metz) U.S. crafting new rules aimed at curbing Chinas advanced computing (The Washington Post / Ellen Nakashima and Jeanne Whalen) Inside Sam Bankman-Frieds flirtation with Elon Musk and Twitter (Axios / Lucinda Shen) Lighter click: Not wrong One more thing: Google cuts translation in China Google has shut down its translation services in China, citing low usage in the mainland country. Google confirmed the move in a statement to The Hill on Monday after CNBC reported that the website dedicated to the translation service now redirects users to the Hong Kong version of the service. We are discontinuing Google Translate in mainland China due to low usage, Google told The Hill in a statement. Bloomberg News also reported that the Hong Kong version of the translation service isnt accessible in the area without a virtual private network. Google has struggled to gain traction in China amid competition from other web search engines, such as China-based Alibaba, and pulled its search engine from the country in 2010 due to strict censorship rules. 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. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A woman holds a sign denouncing COVID-19 vaccine mandates, with syringes in the shape of a swastika, during a 2021 rally at the Kentucky Capitol in Frankfort. Jon Cherry/Getty Images Robert Keith Packer, a 57-year-old Virginian, achieved a measure of infamy at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot when he was photographed wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with a skull and crossbones along with the words Camp Auschwitz. Work Brings Freedom, the front said, a translation of the notorious motto Arbeit macht frei that appeared on the gates of Auschwitz and several other Nazi concentration camps. On the back was the word Staff. Packer was sentenced to 75 days in prison on Sept. 16, 2022, for his role in the riot he was tried for his actions, not his clothing. But his sweatshirt was far from the only Holocaust reference on Jan. 6 or in its aftermath. Rioters have compared their arrests to the persecution of Jews, and commentator Candace Owens compared Jan. 6 to the Reichstag fire, which Adolf Hitler used as pretext to consolidate power in 1933. It is a reminder of something that is all too apparent to scholars of the Holocaust, like myself: Americans are willing to trivialize the genocide by turning it into a tool for their own political goals. As a historian who has written about the American role in liberating concentration camps at the end of World War II, I have spent a great deal of time thinking about how Americans have and have not talked about the Holocaust in the decades since. There is little evidence that outright denial of the Holocaust is widespread. Instead, the problem is a poor understanding of the tragedy, including this countrys response the focus of a remarkable documentary series, The U.S. and the Holocaust, which recently premiered on PBS. Forgetting exclusion The contemporary American story of the Holocaust focuses on the U.S. role in helping to bring the Nazi regime of terror to an end. A more nuanced understanding of Americas reaction is less comforting. Two German-Jewish refugees on the MS St. Louis arrive in Antwerp, Belgium, after the ship was refused entry to Cuba and Miami. Gerry Cranham/Hulton Archive via Getty Images The PBS series, produced by acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns, Lynn Novick and Sarah Botstein, traces what Americans knew about the vast and murderous campaign against civilians in Nazi-occupied Europe in the 1930s, as a flood of Jewish refugees attempted to flee Hitlers Germany. Story continues The U.S. did not enter the war to stop Nazi persecution of Europes Jews. In fact, a majority of Americans opposed entering the war at all until 1940, a year before the Pearl Harbor attack brought the U.S. into the conflict. Many Americans had no interest in protecting the rights of religious or ethnic minorities at home or abroad. Antisemitism and anti-foreign prejudice was a core element of American society in the early 20th century, just as white supremacy was. These forms of hatred and exclusion drew from the same well of supposedly scientific beliefs about racial hierarchy. While the U.S. allowed almost 125,000 Jewish refugees to enter the country during the years between Hitlers rise to power and the start of the war, many more were denied entry or left in limbo. Remembering liberation This part of the countrys response has been largely forgotten, in favor of a story where the U.S. plays a more heroic part. The liberation of the concentration camps in the spring of 1945 plays a central role in public memories of the war today, along with the Allied landings in Normandy on D-Day in 1944. The hall through which millions of visitors have entered the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington is lined with flags of the liberator divisions of the U.S. Army. There is no question that the arrival of American forces at Buchenwald, Dachau and other camps across western and southern Germany saved thousands of prisoners facing murder or death by starvation and sickness. In reality, however, the systematic murder of Europes Jews had largely concluded, and primarily took place hundreds of miles to the east in what is today Poland, Ukraine, Russia and the Baltic states. By the time American forces landed in western Europe, Europes Jewish population had already been reduced to a few small pockets. Within weeks of the arrival of American troops at Buchenwald, Americans saw images and newsreel film of the horrors of the camps. However, it took decades for the story of camp liberation to become the most important act of the war in Europe in Americans minds. It would not be until the 1980s, when the liberators and survivors were entering old age, that the Holocaust was firmly entrenched in American school curricula and popular culture. One important consequence of this long wait was that the stories told by and about liberators changed in the intervening decades. As Americans became more familiar with the events of the Holocaust through television and films, liberator stories began to grow more similar to each other and merged into a general story of the Holocaust, which increasingly focused on the horrors of the death camps in German-occupied Poland. Liberators of Buchenwald describing the event decades afterward, for example, thought they remembered gas chambers at the camp, when in fact there were none at that location. General Dwight D. Eisenhower and soldiers discover 70 prisoner bodies at the Ohrdruf concentration camp, near Buchenwald, who had been executed by the fleeing Nazis. Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland the most infamous camp facility, with its gates saying Arbeit macht frei came to represent all concentration camps in American memory, and even in family stories. In 2008, for example, then-presidential candidate Barack Obama told a crowd about his great-uncles participation in the liberation of Auschwitz. Auschwitz was actually liberated by the Soviet army in January 1945. Obamas campaign later clarified that his great-uncle, Charles Payne, participated in the liberation of Ohrdruf, a subcamp of Buchenwald. Talking about the Holocaust today The centrality of camp liberation to the American story of the Holocaust has real consequences. It turns the Holocaust into a story of American triumph over evil and overlooks the countrys refusal to do more to save the victims. This simplistic version of a complex history has allowed many Americans to use the Holocaust and Nazism as shallow symbols for any kind of government action they oppose and deem oppressive, particularly public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Opponents have compared infectious disease specialist Dr. Anthony Fauci to SS physician and torturer Dr. Josef Mengele. Representative Marjorie Greene has compared face mask rules to forcing Jews to wear Star of David badges, and Capitol police agencies to the Nazi-era Gestapo. As Burns documentary emphasizes, the U.S. is once again in a time of national reckoning about race, discrimination and histories of oppression. In the final minutes of The U.S. and the Holocaust, viewers see marchers in Charlottsville, Virginia, chanting Jews will not replace us, television pundits opining about the threat of cultural decline through immigration, the 2018 attack on the Tree of Life congregation in Pittsburgh, and the Jan. 6 riot. There in the crowd, wearing his sweatshirt, is Robert Keith Packer. This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. It was written by: Adam R. Seipp, Texas A&M University. The Conversation has a variety of fascinating free newsletters. Read more: Adam R. Seipp 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. WASHINGTON Jill Gordon was coming out of a bathroom at a pediatricians office in Teaneck, N.J., when she was confronted by a man holding a hammer and covered in blood. Are you Jewish? He had already smashed windows at the medical office where he now confronted Gordon. After she and her daughter locked themselves in the bathroom, he went down the street and smashed the windows of a dry cleaning business too. The assailant was not charged with a hate crime in the 2021 attack; law enforcement authorities determined that he was likely in the midst of a mental health crisis. But his attack came in an area populated by religious Jews, who had increasingly been the targets of enmity in recent years. In 2019, worshippers en route to services at a local synagogue were shot with water guns and verbally harassed. Later that year, customers at a Teaneck bagel store were harangued by a suspect who authorities described as having mental health issues. He was not charged with a hate crime. The following year, local Democratic Party leader Alexandra Soriano-Taveras called for a boycott of local businesses in a heavily Jewish area of town and faced blowback for alleged antisemitism. In response, she said the reference was to businesses owned by town leadership. On Monday, the House Homeland Security came to Teaneck to hold a hearing on how to combat antisemitism and other forms of hate across the country. Given the prevalence of antisemitism, the proceedings could have just as easily been conducted in Boise, Idaho, or Cleveland. A woman pauses at a memorial outside of the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, where a gunman killed 11 congregants there in 2018. (Gene J. Puskar/AP) The hearing comes at a time when the isolation of the pandemic, political division and demographic change have led to troubling breakdowns in the social order, providing an opening for hateful and conspiratorial ideas to flourish. Antisemitism and extremism in America are at historic highs, Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., who chaired the hearing, wrote in a text message to Yahoo News. We are fighting the war against antisemitism from multiple directions (the right and the left) and on multiple fronts (on college campuses, on social media, and on the streets). Story continues Torres, who has emerged as a rare pro-Israel progressive in the House, offered blunt assessment of those efforts against hate and extremism: So far, we are losing. According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents have spiked sharply since 2016, rising to a record high of 2,717 antisemitic incidents across the country nationwide last year. Some of those incidents included harassment of overtly religious Jews in communities like Teaneck, but there have also been deadly attacks, like the one on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018, during which 11 people died. The hearing on Monday took place during the High Holy Days, a period during which Jews celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the new year, and then mark Yom Kippur, the annual day of atonement. The ADLs Scott Richman testified at the hearing that during recent Rosh Hashanah services, he wore a panic button with which he could alert law enforcement authorities in case the synagogue came under attack. Like so many worshippers, I spent the service distracted by the fear that our synagogue could be next, Richman told lawmakers. President Biden speaks during the recent United We Stand summit, aimed at combating violent hate. (Susan Walsh/AP) At a recent summit of faith and community leaders, the White House pledged to bolster security at synagogues and other houses of worship. Mondays witnesses praised those efforts, but also sought for deeper ways to repair broken social connections that could ameliorate the demonization of Jews, Blacks and other groups. High school seniors from different backgrounds could be encouraged to perform a year of national service, suggested Kenneth Stern of the Center for the Study of Hate at Bard College, so that the cruel caricatures of social media and popular culture could be dispelled by the reality of human contact. How about a Latinx person from Texas, and a Jewish person from New York, and Black person from L.A., Stern mused at the House field hearing, dispatched to work for an organization that builds homes for American Indian people in South Dakota, for example? Holly Huffnagle, U.S director for combating antisemitism at the American Jewish Committee, said that as distrust grows within American society, it will fall to messengers within specific ethnic, political and religious communities to speak to their adherents about antisemitism and other forms of hatred. Otherwise, the very notion of tolerance will be warped by competing ideological forces. Speaking up in general is not enough, she said. None of the committees Republican members attended the hearing, which was conducted in a Teaneck municipal building. They also had the option to attend via video link. (A spokesperson for Republican committee members did not respond to a Yahoo News request for comment.) Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, offered a sweeping warning to his GOP colleagues in Washington. Your failure to speak up and speak out is putting your brand at risk, because conservatism is being conflated with racism, sexism, antisemitism, and all of the invidious phobias, Green said in what he described as an admonition to Republicans. I would encourage you to have the courage to speak out, to protect the conservative brand, which is a legitimate brand. Antiracism demonstrators at a 2017 rally in Atlanta to denounce white supremacy. (Todd Kirkland/AP) Domestic white nationalists, who are increasingly seen as a top national security threat by experts, often use antisemitism as a springboard for other forms of animosity, placing Jews at the center of conspiracy theories regarding demographic change, racial justice, economic downturns and even scientific advancements like the coronavirus vaccine. During the social justice protests that took place across the country in the summer of 2020, a Southern California man was arrested for hanging a banner from a Los Angeles area freeway declaring that the Jews want a race war. The witnesses on Monday agreed that extremism has been enabled by the increasing reliance on digital communication. The AJCs Huffnagle warned against the algorithmic amplification of extremism that takes place on social media platforms. Rep. Tom Malinowksi, D-N.J., lamented that tech companies have created literally the perfect machine for spreading hatred. Those companies have broad legal immunity over the content users publish because of a provision known as Section 230 in the Communications Decency Act, passed in 1996. Malinowski has introduced legislation, Protecting Americans from Dangerous Algorithms Act, which would remove some of the protections offered by Section 230. (When he was president, Donald Trump was also a committed opponent of Section 230, though his opposition stemmed not from a concern about extremism but a conviction, widely shared by conservatives, that Silicon Valley discriminates against them and their ideas.) Their algorithms are based on exploiting primal human emotions fear, anger and anxiety to keep users glued to their screens, and thus regularly promote and recommend white supremacist, antisemitic and other forms of conspiracy-oriented content, Malinowski said when introducing the measure last year. On Monday, the Supreme Court indicated that it would hear arguments in Gonzalez vs. Google, which concerns extremist videos posted on YouTube, the Google-owned video service. If the justices rule against Google and social media platforms suddenly face the prospect of lawsuits, their resistance to policing antisemitic, racist and other extremist content could quickly diminish. House of the Dragon. Illustrated | HBO, Getty Images The knives are out literally and figuratively in this week's eye-popping episode of House of the Dragon, as a Westerosi funeral goes nearly as badly as a Westerosi wedding. Let's break it down with some book context: One wedding and a funeral It's a Westerosi funeral, and everyone's mad at everyone! The royal family gathered this week at Driftmark, seat of House Velaryon, for the funeral of Daemon's (Matt Smith) wife Laena after her fiery death, and the tension between every single person in attendance was almost unbearable. Rhaenyra's (Emma D'Arcy) son Jace (Leo Hart) was mad that nobody cares about the death of Harwin Strong, his real father; Aegon (Ty Tennant) was mad that he's been betrothed to his weird bug-loving sister Helaena (Evie Allen); Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans) was mad at Aegon for drinking too much; Corlys (Steve Toussaint) was mad at Qarl Correy (Arty Froushan) for being his son's secret lover; Rhaenys (Eve Best) was mad at Daemon for not letting her daughter, Laena, return home; and King Viserys (Paddy Considine), well, he just seems confused, at one point referring to Alicent (Olivia Cooke) as Aemma, his deceased wife. Seriously, how is this guy still alive? Amid all this, the elephant in the room remains that Rhaenyra's kids are obvious bastards, so their presence at a Velaryon funeral is awkward at best and insulting at worst. "Salt courses through Velaryon blood," Corlys' brother proclaims, only to look over at non-Velaryons Luke and Jace. They stand out like a sore thumb, even more so next to their silver-haired cousins, and Daemon can't help but laugh. Viserys surprisingly uses the funeral as an opportunity to invite Daemon back to King's Landing, despite kicking his brother out not once, but twice, most recently for claiming to have publicly deflowered his niece. He is ready to get hurt again! During this opening funeral scene, we get a brief reference to the "Merling King," a god worshipped by sailors. Legend suggests the Merling King gifted the Velaryons their Driftwood Throne, which we see Viserys sitting on this week. Story continues A new legacy Rhaenys, the "Queen Who Never Was," is wracked with grief over her daughter's death, questioning whether marrying her children to the Targaryens was worth it. Part of the idea was to get closer to the throne that Rhaenys was denied at the Great Council. But while Corlys claims to be seeking justice for that wrong, he seems more driven by his own thirst for power and, as he puts it, legacy; it calls to mind Walter White's endless declarations in Breaking Bad that his drug empire was for his family, only to later admit, "I did it for me." Rhaenyra's son Luke is in line to inherit Driftmark from Corlys one day when his brother becomes king, despite obviously not being a Velaryon (and despite Luke declaring, with his best Jon Snow impression, "I don't want it.") But Rhaenys wants Daemon's kids to take it over instead, considering they really are true-born Velaryons. Surely, though, altering this succession plan isn't possible without publicly accusing Rhaenyra of having bastards, and that's a no-go. Besides, Corlys doesn't really care that his "grandsons" aren't technically related to him, so long as they carry the Velaryon name forward. Under Corlys' deal with Viserys from a few episodes back, Luke would continue using the last name Velaryon while his brother rules as a Targaryen. How to claim your dragon Having everyone gathered at Driftmark for the funeral meant there were a whole lot of dragons in one place, so much so that there is a line in the book about Driftmark briefly becoming "the new Valyria." Alicent's son Aemond (Leo Ashton) certainly takes note of that. You'll recall he doesn't have his own dragon like his brother and is extremely self-conscious about that, so he decides to claim one: Vhagar, which was formerly ridden by Laena. In addition to it being kind of in bad taste to swipe a dead lady's pet at her funeral, it's worth noting this isn't just any dragon. It's the biggest and oldest dragon currently in existence, and it's been around since the conquest of Westeros, when Aegon the Conqueror's wife Visenya rode her. So claiming Vhagar is a rather massive deal, and when the dragon begins taking Aemond's commands, we're meant to understand it's now officially his. This is an especially tough blow for Daemon's kids, mainly Rhaena, who also doesn't have her own dragon since the egg she was given at birth never hatched. So after her mom's death, the one bright spot was that Rhaena could now claim Vhagar and Aemond just stole her. Maybe he, not Aegon, is the Targaryen kid we should really be worried about? An eye for an eye The kids truly aren't alright this week, as the dragon episode leads to a bloody confrontation between them all. It escalates when Aemond openly calls Luke and Jace bastards, leading Luke to take his eye out. Well, that would explain the eyepatch we've seen Aemond wearing in the trailers. The book, Fire & Blood, explains that Alicent's kids "grew to be bitter rivals" of Rhaenyra's, "resentful of them for having stolen" the throne. Then Alicent demands one of Rhaenyra's kids lose an eye as retribution and when Viserys refuses, she attacks Rhaenyra with the king's own Valyrian steel blade. Viserys has little control over the madness, once again underlining his weakness as king. He's really going to let his wife violently attack his daughter and heir in front of everyone? At least Viserys threatens to remove the tongue of anyone who speaks of the bastard rumors again, but will anyone take that threat seriously when Alicent gets away with all her behavior here? This whole sequence is lifted directly from the book with the exception of Alicent slicing Rhaenyra, a show invention. Aegon, meanwhile, misses the entire fight after drinking too much; Fire & Blood describes him as "given to swilling ale and strongwine and pinching and fondling any serving girl who strayed within his reach." By the way, you know how Alicent's daughter Helaena has been muttering seemingly random things to herself while looking at her bugs? Well, last week, immediately after Alicent promised Aemond he would have a dragon one day, Helaena said this: "He'll have to close an eye." Was that just clever foreshadowing that Aemond would soon lose an eye and gain a dragon, or could Helaena actually be a greenseer, e.g. someone who can see into the future? Keep an ear open to her dialogue for potential hints. You've got to hand it to her Alicent's father Otto has already been reinstated as hand of the king after Lyonel Strong also had a fiery death last week. The show doesn't really explain why Viserys is fine with Otto getting his old job back when he obviously doesn't support Rhaenyra as heir, but we can assume Alicent managed to convince him. Fire & Blood notes that Viserys considered naming Rhaenyra or even Daemon hand of the king, but he "chose familiarity" by re-hiring Otto. But just when Alicent expects Otto to chastise her for assaulting the princess, he's actually psyched that she was willing to get ugly. Clearly, Otto is ready for this cold war to heat up, though that's easy to say now that his side has the world's biggest dragon. Still, could Alicent's outburst the Westerosi equivalent of The Slap, perhaps sway crucial allies toward Rhaenyra? Either way, if there was any chance Viserys would change his mind about Rhaenyra being heir, that just went out the window. Lord have mercy Larys Strong (Matthew Needham), meanwhile, is now officially the lord of Harrenhal, inheriting it after having his own father and brother burned alive in that very same castle, and he seems eager for even more mischief. Indeed, Larys floats the idea to Alicent of getting retribution for Aemond's eye himself, which she rejects for now. "The day will doubtless come when I require such a friend," she tells him, so Larys is basically on retainer for another murder. Here he goes killing again! He should probably practice being more subtle about this, though, considering everyone notices him staring at her with pride at the funeral, and Daemon has already figured out that Alicent was involved in the Harrenhal fire. Notably, this offer comes after Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) refused to help Alicent take out one of the kids' eyes. So could we see her start turning more to Larys, rather than Criston, when it comes to breaking the law in the future? Wherefore art thou, Laenor? A grief-stricken Laenor misses nearly this entire episode, arriving the morning after like Troy bringing back pizza to his fiery apartment. His absence when his sons get in trouble surely won't dissuade people from believing they're not really his. "I should have been there," he says. Yeah, you think? But with Laenor's lover Qarl going off to fight in the Stepstones, he vows to change his ways and actually be a husband and father in practice, not just in theory. Great, here's to many more years of happy marriage between these two. Surely, nothing will get in the way of that! For those who wondered last week why Laenor and Rhaenyra couldn't have at least had sex a few times to produce kids that look like him, we learn this week that they did try, but there was no "joy" in it, as Rhaenyra puts it. In the book, there is a whole section about rumors of their sex life, with one of the in-universe historians saying they "shared a bed no more than a dozen times," while another more salacious source claims that Qarl "oft shared that bed as well." Til' fake death do us part First Daemon tries to bang his niece, then he murders his wife, and then he actually does bang his niece at the funeral of his other dead wife. They couldn't wait, like, a few days? Well, at least it's Rhaenyra who initiates it. She clearly has always had a thing for Daemon, though the fact that their flirting began when he was a grown man and she was a child makes this creepier than just regular old incest. She's frustrated with him for abandoning her all those years ago, so maybe if he had simply proposed marriage in a normal way without those brothel shenanigans, everything might have worked out (after he first killed his wife, of course). Rhaenyra proposes they get married now, to which he's presumably thinking, "Yeah, I've been saying that!" She even compares their marriage to Aegon the Conqueror's, just as Daemon did to Viserys. It's not a terrible idea, as Daemon could give Rhaenyra legitimate heirs. The fact that a Targaryen would be king consort might also improve her claim, as for all those raging misogynists out there in Westeros, at least a male Targaryen would be close to the throne. Besides, Rhaenyra needs someone strong by her side when the coming war begins, and Laenor doesn't really fit the bill. "I cannot face the greens alone," Rhaenyra says. In the book, "the greens" refers to those loyal to Alicent, in reference to the infamous green dress she wore. But this would only be possible if Laenor were dead. Boy, it would be a shame if something happened to him, right? As Rhaenyra and Daemon scheme, our jaws drop as we're led to believe that Daemon hires Qarl, Laenor's lover, to murder him, a shocking twist that would call into question which side we're rooting for. We even see Qarl get into a sword fight with Laenor, which seemingly ends with Laenor's dead body being tossed in the fire. In the closing moments, though, we see Qarl and Laenor, now with a shaved head, sailing away, revealing the whole thing was a ruse and that Rhaenyra and Daemon actually plotted to fake his death. Laenor's "body" is presumably just the body of that man Daemon killed, burnt beyond recognition. Thank goodness DNA testing hasn't been invented in Westeros yet! Now, Rhaenyra and Daemon are free to marry, while Laenor can live blissfully with Qarl across the Narrow Sea in a place "where it doesn't matter what a man's name is," which sounds like a solid deal considering he's shown no interest in all this political scheming and dreamed last week of being "back at sea"; it's basically the same out that Criston offered Rhaenyra. Still, we're not letting Rhaenyra off the hook for this considering Corlys and Rhaenys seemingly aren't in on the plan unless they're just amazing actors forcing them to go through the grief of losing a second child. Rhaenyra and Daemon are also both hoping to strike fear in their enemies by making the realm suspect she killed him, hence Daemon noting, "We will know the truth of it, and our enemies won't." This is another example of the show solving a mystery from the book. Fire & Blood says Laenor was stabbed to death by Qarl at a fair but that "the circumstances of the murder remain a mystery to this day." It offers several theories, including that Daemon paid Qarl to kill him, and fans have always suspected that's what happened. But the idea that Laenor's death was actually faked is a big reveal even for book readers. That's right: It's a rare Game of Thrones twist where someone lives. Daemon and Rhaenyra waste no time tying the knot, so the episode closes with their marriage. The book suggests the reason they were in such a hurry is that Rhaenyra "knew her father would never approve of the match, so she wed in haste to make certain he could not prevent" it. We'll have to see how Viserys feels when he finds out, so stay tuned to see if Daemon will get thrown out of King's Landing like Jazz from Fresh Prince for a record third time. You may also like 5 scathing cartoons about Trump's spiraling legal woes National Archives says some Trump administration records are still missing O'Rourke, Abbott face off in Texas gubernatorial debate